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UP boy who saved dad from crocodile wants to protect nation

A nine-year-old boy, Ajay Raj Nishad, received the Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar for his bravery after saving his father from a crocodile attack in the Chambal river. Armed with a stick, Ajay struck the predator's eye, forcing it to release his father. Inspired by the award ceremony, Ajay aspires to join the defence forces.

Etching a new identity: Chamba women take on Thal carving for independence

Supreme Court ruling on Aravalli definition triggers huge protests in Rajasthan

JAIPUR: The Supreme Courts recent acceptance of the Union Environment Ministrys definition of the Aravalli hills -- restricting the range to landforms with an elevation of more than 100 metres -- has triggered widespread protests across Rajasthan. Political leaders, environmental activists, social media influencers and citizens have expressed strong opposition and warned that the move will entail serious ecological and economic consequences. Under the revised definition, nearly 90 per cent of the Aravalli range in Rajasthan, consisting of hills lower than 100 metres, will no longer be classified as part of the protected range. According to available data, only 1,048 out of nearly 1.6 lakh hillocks in the state meet the 100-metre criterion, effectively excluding the vast majority from regulatory safeguards. SC ruling on Aravalli definition sparks opposition in Rajasthan, former CM Gehlot warns of ecological disaster Laxmikant Sharma, professor at the Department of Environmental Sciences, Central University of Rajasthan, said the governments stance that only hills above 100 metres qualify as Aravalli would automatically exclude most of the range. In Rajasthan, the Aravalli hills are largely between 30 and 80 metres in height. This means nearly 90 per cent of the range is directly under threat, he said. Though the Supreme Court order states that new mining is not permitted, critics argue that illegal mining continues unabated. A 2018 report by the Supreme Court-appointed Central Empowered Committee (CEC) revealed that around 25 per cent of the Aravalli hills in Rajasthan had already been destroyed. Against this backdrop, the Aravalli Heritage Peoples Campaign was launched a few days ago from Vinoba Gyan Mandir in Bapu Nagar in Jaipur. Kavita Srivastava, national president of the Peoples Union for Civil Liberties (PUCL), urged the government to repeal the uniform definition of the Aravalli proposed by a committee under the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, calling it a threat to Indias ecological and cultural heritage. SC ruling on Aravalli definition sparks opposition in Rajasthan, former CM Gehlot warns of ecological disaster 'Road to hell is paved with good intentions': Congress slams government over new Aravalli definition Activists have demanded that the Aravalli rangespread across Gujarat, Rajasthan, Haryana and Delhibe declared an Ecologically Critical Area and that the use of raw stone mined from the hills be stopped. Neelam Ahluwalia, founding member of People for Aravalli, said the recent court decision would leave more than 90 per cent of the range unprotected and vulnerable to mining. The situation is particularly alarming in Alwar district, where 31 of the 128 identified hills have reportedly been completely flattened due to mining. Environmental experts warn that excluding large parts of the Aravalli range from protection could further embolden mining mafias. Experts have also cautioned that extensive degradation of the Aravallis could alter regional rainfall patterns. Some warn that if the range is destroyed, monsoon moisture could shift westwards towards Pakistan, adversely affecting rainfall in Rajasthan. Nearly 80 per cent of the 700-kilometre-long Aravalli range passes through 27 districts of Rajasthan, forming the ecological backbone of eastern Rajasthan. Agriculture and farmers livelihoods in these regions depend heavily on the hills, as several seasonal riversincluding the Chambal, Banas, Sahibi, Sota, Katli, Kasavati, Gambhiri and Moreloriginate from the Aravallis. Modi government has 'nearly signed death warrant' for Aravalli hills: Sonia Gandhi Rainwater stored in the hills flows through streams and underground channels, sustaining these rivers and supporting small-scale farming and animal husbandry throughout the year. The Aravallis are also home to diverse plant species and vegetation. As the worlds oldest mountain range, their rock formations have a strong water-holding capacity, allowing groundwater to be stored for long periods. Rajasthan has around 32 major potable water reservoirs, many of which depend on the Aravalli system. In a desert state like Rajasthan, environmentalists point out that nearly 22 per cent of the Aravalli hills have already been destroyed due to excessive mining. According to studies, the unique structure of the Aravallis helps recharge nearly two million litres of groundwater per hectare annually, making the range the largest source of water in the region. As protests intensify, environmental groups have demanded an immediate review of the definition, warning that Rajasthans ecology, water security and rural economy are at serious risk. It remains to be seen how the agitation unfolds in the coming days. On International Mountain Day, campaign launched to save India's oldest mountain range Aravalli

Genetic researchers probe nuclear genome to explain exceptionally high TB burden among MPs Sahariyas

BHOPAL: Genetic science researchers from across the country have turned their focus to genomic factors that may underlie the abnormally high prevalence of tuberculosis (TB) among the Sahariyas, one of the three Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs) in Madhya Pradesh. The Sahariya population is largely concentrated in the GwaliorChambal region of Madhya Pradesh, particularly in Sheopur, Shivpuri, Guna, Ashoknagar, Gwalior, Morena and Bhind districts, with some presence in adjoining parts of Bundelkhand. Reported TB prevalence among the community ranges between 1,518 and 3,294 cases per 100,000 population, at least eight times higher than the national average of 187 per lakh. According to the World Health Organizations Global TB Report 2025 , India, despite remaining among high-burden countries, has recorded a 21 per cent decline in new TB cases, from 237 per lakh population in 2015 to 187 per lakh in 2024. Against this backdrop, the Sahariyas stand out as an extreme outlier. The ongoing research is being led by Prof Gyaneshwar Chaubey, a noted geneticist and biological anthropologist at Banaras Hindu University (BHU), Varanasi, in collaboration with researchers from several institutions, including the University of Calcutta and the Forensic Science Laboratory, Jabalpur. The team has already made a significant breakthrough by linking rare maternal mitochondrial haplogroups, N5 and X2, to heightened TB susceptibility among the Sahariyas. A haplogroup refers to a group of people who share a common ancestor, identified through specific mutations in mitochondrial DNA (inherited from the mother) or Y-chromosome DNA (inherited from the father). The findings, published in the international journal Mitochondrion in August 2025, were based on the analysis of complete mitochondrial genomes from 729 individuals, including 140 Sahariyas. The study revealed that the rare N5 and X2 haplogroups, absent in neighbouring populations, likely entered the Sahariya gene pool through ancient gene flow from western India during the early Iron Age. A subsequent founder effect may have compromised mitochondrial function, weakening immune responses to TB. Researchers noted that this genetic vulnerability, compounded by chronic malnutrition, poverty and limited access to healthcare, offers a compelling explanation for the tribes extraordinarily high TB burden. Building on these mitochondrial findings, the research team has now initiated whole-genome sequencing of Sahariya individuals to investigate the contribution of the nuclear genome to TB susceptibility. This phase aims to identify risk alleles or genetic variants in nuclear DNA that may act independently or in concert with mitochondrial factors to heighten disease vulnerability. The study is also examining long-standing patterns of endogamy within the community. High levels of marriage within the group, combined with a historically small effective population size, may have amplified harmful genetic variants through genetic drift and inbreeding. Preliminary analyses suggest that this demographic history could further intensify TB risk by concentrating deleterious alleles. Expanding from mitochondrial insights to nuclear genomics will give us a far more comprehensive understanding of genetic susceptibility among the Sahariyas, said Debasruti Das, the studys first author. This knowledge is crucial for designing targeted interventions for communities bearing the heaviest TB burden. Senior author Prof Prashant Suravajhala added that the ongoing work would also assess how genetic predisposition interacts with environmental and cultural factors. Such integrated insights can pave the way for personalised public health strategies and more effective TB control among tribal populations, he said.

Two from Chamba among 3 killed in Doda mishaps

Excelsior Correspondent DODA, Dec 12: Three persons lost their lives while two others were seriously injured in two different road accidents in the mountainous Doda district today. Follow the Daily Excelsior channel on WhatsApp The first accident took place this morning on Bhaderwah-Chamba road in Thanhala village when a van with four persons onboard plunged into a gorge leaving one of the travellers dead on spot and three others injured. Immediately after the accident locals along with cops under the [] The post Two from Chamba among 3 killed in Doda mishaps appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

MP CM hails naxal cadre elimination as top achievement ahead of two-year government milestone

BHOPAL: A day before his government completes two years in power, Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Dr Mohan Yadav termed the end of naxal cadres through the elimination and surrenders policy as the biggest achievement of his government so far. The naxal menace is as old as 37-38 years. Various naxal dalams had been formed way back in 1988-89. In 1995, an entire bus carrying 17 police personnel was blown into pieces. Four years later, a minister in the then Congress government (transport minister Likhiram Kanware) was brutally hacked to death by the outlaws. Despite Congress governments ruling the centre and states for decades since independence, the naxal problem wasnt adequately addressed, Yadav told journalists in Bhopal on Friday. In the three naxal-affected districts of MP, Dindori, Mandla and Balaghat, eliminating the naxals was a cumbersome task. Searching for and acting against 35-40 outlaws in the vast forests was difficult. They ran parallel courts, police stations, and councils of ministers. The fear of the Laal Salam extremist ideology among forest dwellers made anti-naxal operations even more difficult, Yadav added. But the situation dramatically changed when Union Home Minister Amit Shah set a March 2026 deadline for eliminating the naxal menace. I was initially sceptical about whether it was achievable, but he was confident, and the results are for all to see. The numbers in the Maharashtra-Madhya Pradesh-Chhattisgarh (MMC) Zone dropped to zero on Thursday the biggest and most historic development. Ten hardcore naxals were gunned down in 2025, the maximum in any year. First Dindori, then Mandla were freed from left-wing extremism (LWE), and on Thursday, Balaghat also recorded zero listed naxal cadres, Yadav said while congratulating the police forces involved in the operations. All credit for eliminating naxal cadres through the surrender or get killed policy goes to our brave cops. For the first time, IPS officers volunteered for postings in naxal-infested areas and set targets to uproot naxalism. Our IG in Balaghat Range, Sanjay Kumar, moved on a motorcycle like a regular jawan such was the commitment and dedication of our police force. We also pay rich tribute to all cops who sacrificed their lives, including young Inspector Ashish Sharma. The 42 surrenders in 42 days wouldnt have been possible without the proactive approach of our brave cops. Salute to their efforts, he added. They once ran a parallel regime in the jungles and terrorized villagers. Now, the same outlaws were competing among themselves to surrender first to save their lives. Mobile phone conversations between them reveal their urgency. With naxal cadre numbers now down to zero in Balaghat, Mandla, and Dindori, we will now ensure a proper framework and system to prevent naxalism from reviving, Yadav said. The MP CM also highlighted inter-state river linking projects like Ken-Betwa, Parvati-Kalisindh-Chambal, and the Tapti Basin Mega Recharge Project as other major achievements of his two-year tenure. The river linking projects, once implemented, will enhance irrigated land from 52 lakh hectares to 100 lakh hectares in five years, he maintained. While reiterating his governments commitment to ending drug abuse in MP, Yadav said, We have begun by banning liquor in 19 religious towns and cities. With cooperation from society and social organisations, we are confident of eliminating the drug menace completely within the next three years.

J&K | 1 Killed, 3 Injured In Doda Road Accident

JAMMU, Dec 12: One person died and three others were injured in a road accident at Jhinhini Nala near Thanalla Naka in Doda district on Friday morning. Officials said the accident took place when an Alcazar vehicle skidded off the road, resulting in the on-spot death of one Rinku Ram, son of Nandu Ram, a resident of Chamba. The injured were identified as Kalash Kumar, 45, from Pota Chamba; Jairam Singh, son of Baghi Ram, and Chander Bani, son of [] The post J&K | 1 Killed, 3 Injured In Doda Road Accident appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

1 Killed, Three Others Injured In J&Ks Kishtwar Road Accident

JAMMU, Dec 12: At least one person was killed and three others were injured in a road accident at Jhinhini Nala near Thanalla Naka in Kishtwar district on Friday morning. Officials said that an Alcazar vehicle was involved in a fatal accident near Thanalla this morning, leaving one person killed and three others injured. The deceased has been identified as Rinku Ram son of Nandu Ram resident of Chamba and injured have been identified as Kalash Kumar(41) resident of Pota [] The post 1 Killed, Three Others Injured In J&Ks Kishtwar Road Accident appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

MP records higher stubble burning than 5 states

BHOPAL: As the country grapples with worsening air quality, it has been revealed that Madhya Pradeshthe home state of Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhanis contributing the maximum to stubble burning. According to the recent statistics pertaining to monitoring paddy residue burning in the country via satellite remote sensing, the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) detected as many as 33,028 active burning events in six study states. The six study states are: Punjab, Haryana, UP, Delhi, Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh. As per the recent report, out of the 33,028 active fire events detected across the six states, a maximum 17,067 or 52% events was detected in MP. Importantly, these 17,067 active burning events detected in MP, between September 15 and November 30, 2025, were more than the collective 15,961 similar active events reported in the same period in the five other states. Among the five other states, 5,114 burning events were detected in Punjab, 662 in Haryana, 7290 in UP, just 5 in Delhi and 2,890 in Rajasthan. Similar picture was revealed when it came to 292 crop residue active burning events detected in the six study states on November 30. MP again attained the top position with 160 burning events, which was more than the total 132 burning events in the 5 other states. Burning events detected in the 5 other states on November 30, included 2 in Punjab, 3 in Punjab, 125 in UP, nil in Delhi, and just 2 in Rajasthan. Further analysis of the crop residue burning events detected through the satellite remote sensing technology recently revealed that the Gwalior-Chambal region contributed the maximum to stubble burning in the forest-rich central Indian state. Out of the 17,067 active burning events between September 15 and November 30, a maximum 2,643 were reported in Sheopur district, which borders Rajasthan. As many as 1,930 events were detected in Gwalior district, followed by 1,797 events in the adjoining Datia. Other districts of the same region where significant active burning events were detected included Ashoknagar (506) and 64 in Morena. Raging menace Using satellite remote sensing, ICAR detected 33,028 paddy residue burning events across six states between Sept 15 and November 20, 2025 The six states are Punjab, Haryana , Uttar Pradesh ,Delhi , Rajasthan , Madhya Pradesh MPs 17,067 incidents exceeded the combined 15,961 fires reported by the other five states The other states reported Punjab - 5,114 Haryana - 662 Uttar Pradesh - 7,290 Delhi - 5 Rajasthan - 2,890 Burning events in the five states on Nov 30: Punjab 2, Haryana 3, UP 125 Delhi 0, Rajasthan 2.

ICAR data: Madhya Pradesh leads parali burning with 52% of fire events among six states

BHOPAL: Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhans home state, Madhya Pradesh, is contributing the maximum to parali burning (paddy residue/stubble burning) in the country, data showed. As per the recent statistics pertaining to monitoring paddy residue burning in the country via satellite remote sensing, the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) said as many as 33,028 active burning events in six study states. The six study states included Punjab, Haryana, UP, Delhi, Rajasthan, and Madhya Pradesh. As per the recent report, out of the 33,028 active fire events detected across the six states, a maximum 17,067 or 52% events were detected in MP. Importantly, these 17,067 active burning events detected in MP, between September 15 and November 30, 2025, were more than the collective 15,961 similar active events reported in the same period in the five other states. Among the five other states, 5,114 burning events were detected in Punjab, 662 in Haryana, 7,290 in UP, 2, 890 in Rajasthan and just five in Delhi. A similar picture was revealed when it came to 292 crop residue active burning events detected in the six study states on November 30. MP again attained the top position with 160 burning events, which was more than the total 132 burning events in the five other states. Burning events detected in the five other states on November 30, included two in Punjab, three in Punjab, 125 in UP, zero in Delhi and just two in Rajasthan. Further analysis of the crop residue burning events detected through the satellite remote sensing technology revealed that the Gwalior-Chambal region contributed the maximum to stubble burning in the forest-rich central Indian state. 'Incorrect to pass burden onto farmers': SC questions blaming stubble burning for Delhi pollution Out of the 17,067 active burning events between September 15 and November 30, a maximum of 2,643 were reported in Sheopur district, which borders Rajasthan. As many as 1,930 events were detected in Gwalior district of the same Gwalior-Chambal region, followed by 1,797 such events in the adjoining Datia district. The other districts of the same region where significant active burning events were detected included Ashoknagar (506) and Morena district (64). Even when it came to the 160 active burning events detected on November 30 in the state, Gwalior district contributed the maximum at 62. At least 98 or 61% of the total 160 active burning events in MP as on November 30 were detected in districts of Gwalior-Chambal region. Jabalpur district in Mahakoshal region, adjoining Hoshangabad district of central MP and Satna district in Vindhya region were close behind the districts of Gwalior-Chambal region. According to informed sources, MP having the dubious distinction of being the leader in paddy stubble burning isnt a new phenomenon, but has been happening at least since the last two years. The state government tabled figures related to cases registered against those indulging in Parali burning since April 2020 in the Vidhan Sabha on Tuesday. A total of 546 such cases were registered against offenders in various parts of the state in little less than five years. Out of those 546 cases, as many as 506 cases were registered between December 2023 and November 2025. According to Gwalior district collector Ruchika Chauhan, the Parali burning incidents have declined significantly this year compared to last two years, due to multi-pronged efforts by authorities, including imposing penalties ranging between Rs 5,000 and Rs 15,000 based on area of cultivation, use of harvesters having machines to ensure that crop residue is negligible and sustained awareness campaigns.

47% rise in child marriages since 20, Bundelkhands Damoh dist hotspot

BHOPAL: Marriages of girls aged below 18 years continue to increase in Madhya Pradesh, despite the government claims of working against it in a focussed manner, especially through public awareness campaigns. Statistics tabled by Mohan Yadav government in the Assembly on Tuesday revealed a 47% increase in such cases in 2025, compared to corresponding figures from 2020. So far, this year, 538 child marriages have been reported across the state, a big rise from 366 in 2020. There were 366 such marriages reported in 2020, which increased by 19% to 436 in 2021, 519 marriages in 2022, 528 in 2023, and 529 in 2024. While Bundelkhand, central MP, Gwalior-Chambal region, besides some tribal dominated districts have reported the maximum number of such weddings, Damoh district of Bundelkhand region has emerged as the prime hotspot with maximum 115 such marriages in 2025. With 115 marriages, Damoh contributed 21% of the total 538 such marriages so far this year. The same district had reported 69 such marriages in 2021, 64 in 2022, 39 in 2023 and 33 in 2024. The other districts which reported significant number of such marriages this year, included Rajgarh with 44 marriages, 35 in Bundelkhands Chhatarpur, 28 in Gwalior-Chambal regions Guna, 24 each in Sagar & Dewas, and 23 in Narsinghpur district. A maximum of 115 weddings in Damoh this year is the first time in five years that any district has reported in 100 or more marriages annually. Concern raised The incidence of marriages involving girls below 18 years has risen from 366 in 2020 to 538 in 2025 Damoh dist in Bundelkhand has recorded 115 child marriages this year This is the first time in five years that a dist has seen over 100 cases in a year

Child marriages continue to rise in Madhya Pradesh; 538 cases reported in 2025

Marriages of girls aged below 18 years continue to rise in Madhya Pradesh, despite the governments claims of taking focused measures, particularly through public awareness campaigns to curb the practice. Statistics tabled by Mohan Yadav government in the Vidhan Sabha on Tuesday, the second day of the assemblys ongoing winter session, revealed a 47% jump in child marriages in 2025 compared to 2020. As many as 538 child marriages have been reported across the state so far this year, up from 366 cases in 2020. The number of child marriages has been steadily increasing over the years: 366 cases were reported in 2020, rising by 19% to 436 in 2021, followed by 519 in 2022, 528 in 2023, and 529 in 2024. These figures were presented in response to a question raised by former minister and three-time Congress MLA Jaivardhan Singh. While districts in Bundelkhand, central Madhya Pradesh, the GwaliorChambal region, and some tribal-dominated areas reported the highest number of cases, Damoh district in Bundelkhand has emerged as the biggest hotspot, recording 115 child marriages in 2025. This accounts for 21% of all cases reported in the state this year. The district had earlier reported 69 such marriages in 2021, 64 in 2022, 39 in 2023, and 33 in 2024. Other districts reporting a significant number of child marriages this year include Rajgarh (44), Chhatarpur (35), Guna (28), Sagar (24), Dewas (24), and Narsinghpur (23). The 115 cases reported in Damoh this year mark the first instance in five years of any district crossing the three-digit mark. Before this, the highest figure was 87 cases reported in Rajgarh in 2023. Damoh had also recorded the highest number of such cases in 2021 and 2022. Sagar district, also part of Bundelkhand, continues to report a substantial number of underage marriages: 48 in 2020, 33 in 2021, 27 in 2022, 36 in 2023, and 34 in 2024. Although the figures were shared by the Women and Child Development (WCD) Department in the Vidhan Sabha, the states WCD Minister Nirmala Bhuria told journalists that she had no such information. No such question was raised in the Vidhan Sabha. I dont have any such information. Ill find out from where the opposition obtained these figures, she said, despite the data being part of the House proceedings. Bhurias home district, the Bhil-dominated Jhabua, reported 68 child marriages in the last five years, while neighbouring Alirajpur, dominated by the Bhilala tribe, reported just seven cases since 2020. Reacting to the data, Congress MLA Jaivardhan Singh slammed the government. In response to my question, the government claimed on Tuesday that public awareness on the issue is growing. But the continuously rising figures shared by the department itself paint a picture contrary to the governments claims, he said.

FDDI Hyderabad Hosts Three-Day Footwear Exhibition

Visitors were welcomed into a space that placed Mojari next to Jutti, Pulla near Chamba footwear, and Kolhapuri beside the Bharwadi Desi Joda and Pabu craft, there celebrating footwear as cultural memory and contemporary study.

Seven girls rescued in MP as police raid two spa centres for alleged sex rackets

BHOPAL: A surprise police raid at two spa centres in Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh, revealed sex rackets that were pushing young girls from Delhi and from districts in the GwaliorChambal region into prostitution. The raid, led by additional SP (ASP) Vidita Dagar, was carried out on Sunday at two spa centres located in the upmarket City Centre area of Gwalior. The operation resulted in the busting of the rackets. Total seven young girls were found at the two Spa Centres. The girls were found in objectionable situations with men hailing from Gwalior only. Objectionable material too was seized from both the Spa Centres, Dagar told TNIE on Monday. According to the police, the preliminary investigation revealed that some of the girls hailed from Delhi, while others were from Bhind district in Madhya Pradeshs GwaliorChambal region. Four to five men, including those found with the girls in objectionable positions and the operators of the two centres, have been detained for questioning. There have been specific intelligence inputs with us about some Spa Centres in the city, indulging in immoral business, after which the surprise inspection was carried out by the police at the two Spa Centres in Tulsi Vihar Colony on Sunday, Dagar added. Were now working at how the girls from Delhi and Bhind were brought here and pushed into the immoral activities at the two Spa Centres, she informed.

Project Cheetah logs landmark success as Indian-born female gives birth to five cubs at MPs Kuno National Park

Bhopal: In a major breakthrough for Indias cheetah reintroduction programme, the first Indian-born female cheetah has given birth to five cubs at Madhya Pradeshs Kuno National Park (KNP), marking a historic milestone in the countrys conservation efforts. Sharing the historic development on X on Thursday, the Union Minister for Environment, Forest and Climate Change Bhupender Yadav posted visuals of 33-months-old female cheetah Mukhi and her newborn cubs. In a delightful breakthrough for Indias cheetah reintroduction initiative, Mukhi the first Indian-born female cheetah, aged 33 months has given birth to five cubs. This is the first time in recent history that an Indian-born cheetah has reproduced, making it a landmark achievement for Project Cheetah, Yadav mentioned in the post. Successful reproduction by an India-born cheetah is a strong indicator of the species adaptation, health, and long-term prospects in Indian habitats. The mother and cubs are doing fine. This significant development reinforces optimism about establishing a self-sustaining and genetically diverse cheetah population in India, further advancing the nations conservation goals. Sharing the visuals, the MP Chief Minister Dr Mohan Yadav, wrote on the same micro-blogging site, A historic milestone has been achieved in the Kuno National Park. The mother and cubs are doing well. This is an unprecedented breakthrough for Indias cheetah reintroduction initiative. Importantly, Mukhi is the lone surviving first-Indian born cub of Namibian cheetah Siyaya. She was born in March 2023 to Siyaya, just two days after the death of another Namibian female, Sasha, due to renal failure, was reported from the KNP -- which had become the first home to African cheetahs in India, following the successful introduction of eight Namibian cheetahs on September 17, 2022. Though Mukhi was the lone survivor among the first four Indian born cubs of the Namibian cheetah Siyaya, the female cub at nine months of age had sustained serious limb injury. Her subsequent recovery and growth into an independent, healthy adult cheetah, who learnt to hunt on her own, exemplifies the continuous efforts of the team of veterinary experts at the KNP. Importantly, both Mukhi and Siyaya became mothers at nearly the same age in the national park located in Sheopur district of MPs Gwalior-Chambal region. Thursdays landmark development in Indias ongoing cheetah reintroduction programme, more than seven decades after the species went extinct from the wild due to rampant hunting, gains further significance as Kuno National Park is now preparing to receive eight cheetahs from Botswana by the end of this year or early next year. Currently, Kuno National Park houses eight adult Namibian and South African cheetahs and 21 cubs. The Gandhi Sagar Wildlife Sanctuary in western Madhya Pradesh, which became the second home for African cheetahs in India in April 2025, now holds a South African male coalition and a female, all translocated from Kuno.

Himachal BJP MLA Hans Raj booked under POCSO Act for alleged sexual assault on minor

CHANDIGARH: Himachal Pradesh BJP MLA Hans Raj has been booked by the state police under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act after a complainant accused him of assaulting her when she was a minor. The 42-year-old legislator of the saffron party from the Churah Assembly constituency in Chamba district was booked under Section 6 of the POCSO Act and Section 69 (sexual intercourse by employing deceitful means) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS). The complaint was lodged on Friday at the Womens Police Station. Last week, the woman went live on Facebook, leveling serious allegations of sexual exploitation and intimidation against the MLA and his aides, claiming to possess supporting evidence. She uploaded a seven-minute video alleging that the legislator had ruined her family and that she feared for her life. In response, Hans Raj released a video terming the allegations baseless and politically motivated. Subsequently, her father told the media that the MLAs aides had kidnapped them, broken their mobile phones, and threatened to burn down their house if they did not withdraw the case. A senior police officer said that a case was registered at the Womens Police Station in Chamba on Friday evening after the victim, who is in her early twenties, alleged that she was sexually abused by the MLA when she was a minor. Her statement was recorded before a magistrate, and a medical examination was conducted, he said. This development comes shortly after a First Information Report (FIR) was registered against Hans Raj on November 6 under Sections 140(3), 115(2), 351(2), 324(4), and 3(5) of the BNS at the Tissa Police Station for offences related to kidnapping, wrongful confinement, assault, and criminal intimidation. The complaint, filed by the victims father, accused the legislator, his personal secretary Lekh Raj, and another associate, Muniyan Khan, of forcibly taking his daughter and him to Shimla and threatening them with dire consequences if they did not change their earlier statement. In August last year, a case had also been registered against the legislator at the Womens Police Station in Chamba on the complaint of the same woman, who had alleged that the MLA was sending obscene messages, demanding nude photos, and threatening her. However, a few days later, she went live on social media and withdrew her allegations, claiming she had made them under mental duress. Responding to the renewed allegations, Hans Raj described them as a politically motivated conspiracy aimed at maligning his image. Meanwhile, Himachal Pradesh Womens Commission Chairperson Vidya Negi has sought a report on the case from the Chamba Police. Hans Raj is the third BJP leader from the state to face sexual assault charges in the past month. On October 11, the Solan police arrested 81-year-old Ram Kumar Bindal, elder brother of Himachal Pradesh BJP President Rajiv Bindal, for allegedly raping a 25-year-old woman. On October 14, a rape case was registered against Brijeshwar, son of former Shimla MP Virender Kashyap, for allegedly having physical relations with a woman on the pretext of marriage. She lodged the complaint after discovering that he was already married.

NHPC Jammu wins Inter-Regional Volleyball tourney

Excelsior Sports Correspondent JAMMU, Nov 6: The Volleyball Team of NHPC Regional Office, Jammu, clinched the NHPC Inter-Regional Volleyball Tournament held at Chamera-II Power Station, Chamba, Himachal Pradesh. Teams from various NHPC Regional Offices across the country participated with great enthusiasm. In a thrilling final match, the Jammu team defeated the NHPC Faridabad team by 3-1, securing the championship title for the first time. The victorious team presented the trophy to Ram Swaroop, Executive Director, NHPC RO Jammu, who congratulated [] The post NHPC Jammu wins Inter-Regional Volleyball tourney appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Amit Shah targets RJD and Congress at Bihar rallies, predicts massive majority for NDA

BETTIAH/MADHUBANI: Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Thursday addressed election rallies in Bettiah, Motihari and Madhubani as 18 districts went to the polls in the first phase of the Bihar assembly elections, accusing the Opposition, RJD, of having pushed Bihar into a mess about 20 years ago. At Bettiah, Shah made a confident prediction: The counting will begin at 8:00 am on November 14 and by 11:00 am, Lalu and Rahuls party will be finished. Under the leadership of Modi ji and Nitish ji, the NDA will once again form the government in Bihar with a massive majority. Cautioning voters, Shah said, If by some mistake our government does not form and the thugbandhan (referring to the Mahagathbandhan) comes to power, then our Champaran will once again become a mini-Chambal. Do you want to bring back jungle raj? Do you want murder, kidnappings, dacoities and extortion to start again? If you do not want that, then on November 3, press the button on the lotus symbol. Shah also said that if an NDA government was formed, it would make Bihar completely free from floods within five years. Referring to the Ram temple, Shah alleged that Lalu Prasad Yadav and the Congress wanted to stop its construction. Mother Sita was born right here in our Bihar. In Bihar, both of Rams sons, Luv and Kush, were born. The first meeting of Ram and Sita took place in Bihar. It was Ram who rescued Ahalya in Bihar. Dont worry two months ago, Nitish Kumar ji and I went to Sitamarhi for the bhumi pujan. Within two years, a grand temple to Sita Mata will be built at a cost of Rs 850 crore, he said, giving the campaign an emotional touch. Shah added that along with the temple, the doubling of the railway line from Sitamarhi to Ayodhya would be completed. On the day the temples pratishtha happens, we will start a Vande Bharat train running from Ayodhya to Sitamarhi, he said. Taking up the issue of infiltration, Shah asked, Should Bangladeshi infiltrators be removed from Bihars voter lists or not? Just now Rahul Baba led a Ghuspethiya Bachao yatra; he said keep infiltrators on the voter rolls. Should Bangladeshis decide who will be Bihars Chief Minister? Infiltrators take jobs from our youth, demand a share of rations meant for the poor, and make the country insecure. From the land of Ramnagar today I say: do as many yatras and press conferences as you like, Rahul Baba the Bharatiya Janata Party from all over the country and from Bihar will identify and remove every single infiltrator. Declaring that the election was dedicated to ending infiltration, Shah said, The upcoming election is an election to make Bihar free of infiltrators. In West Champaran at Kumarbagh, we have set up a Special Economic Zone. In Chanpatia, we are developing an industrial area and a startup zone. Chanpatias textiles are reaching global markets, and we will make the Kesriya Stupa a world heritage site. He also promised an airport in West Champaran. We have also built a Toy Park in West Champaran. The Tharu community was granted Scheduled Tribe status by our Atal Bihari Vajpayee ji. Modi ji has many schemes in mind for the Tharu community, but because of the election we cannot speak of them now. Once the NDA government forms, we will roll out major schemes for the Tharu community, he said. Recalling how West Champaran was once the sugar bowl of eastern India, Shah said, The chimneys of sugar mills used to billow smoke and farmers used to get paid. The sweetness of our sugar reached across the country. But under jungle raj, extortion caused these mills to shut down one after another locks were put on Champarans sugar mills too. We have restarted the sugar mill at Rega. He assured voters that the BJP and NDA would work to reopen all closed sugar mills in Bihar within the next five years. Shah also listed projects completed in West Champaran, including the PatnaBettiah four-lane road, the widening of National Highway 28 from Bagaha to Bettiah, and the four-lane road No. 139 from Digha to Bettiah. In Motihari, Shah said the Congress now wanted to rule Bihar again by sitting on Lalus shoulders. But I want to tell Rahul ji the one whose shoulders youre riding on is going to lose, and you are going to lose too. Do you want to bring back jungle raj again? Can kidnappings, murders, extortion, and dacoities ever do any good for Bihar? If the RJD candidate from here wins even by mistake, will jungle raj return or not? Only the team of Nitish Kumar and Narendra Modi can stop jungle raj, he said. Lalu jis son raised the slogan, Shahabuddin amar rahe (long live Shahabuddin), and gave a ticket to his son. But I want to tell you, Lalu ji even if three generations of your family come to power, Bihar will never again see the rise of goons like Shahabuddin. In Madhubani, Shah said, A large airport is going to be built in Madhubani. In Benipatti, a medical college will be built. Recently, Rahul Baba said that we should find out how many people from each caste and each religion are in our Army. Rahul Baba, shame on you shame on you! You want to divide our Army on the basis of religion and caste. He criticised Rahul Gandhis comments about caste in the Army. In our Army, no matter which caste a brave soldier belongs to, we respect every single one of them. The PFI had spread all the way to Phulwarisharif. It was an anti-national organisation that wanted to break India into pieces. Modi ji, in just one night, banned PFI from Kerala to Phulwarisharif and put all its members behind bars. And Lalu Yadav says they should be released Lalu ji, let me tell you, they will never be released, he asserted.

Himachal woman alleges BJP MLA Hansraj of harassment; he says she is like my daughter

SHIMLA: A woman from Chamba district in Himachal Pradesh has accused BJP MLA Hansraj of harassing her and threatening her family, allegations the legislator has dismissed as an attempt to trigger communal tension. A purported video of the woman making the allegations has surfaced on social media. The woman had filed an FIR against the MLA last year, accusing him of sending obscene messages and demanding nude photographs. In the video, she alleged that some people were trying to defame her by claiming she had accepted money to level charges against Hansraj, who represents the Churah constituency in Chamba. She also claimed she was under pressure to withdraw her complaint. If any harm comes to my family members, I will not spare the MLA, she said tearfully in the clip. The woman further alleged that Hansrajs wife had been threatening that he would settle scores once he becomes a minister, claiming the MLA had ruined my life and that she had nothing to lose now. She said she took to social media because she had no faith in the police or other authorities, accusing them of taking no action and pressuring her to reach a compromise with the MLA. She also accused a doctor and a junior engineer of misbehaving with her father. Hansraj, a three-time MLA, later posted a video refuting the allegations, saying the woman was like my daughter and that she had made similar accusations last year as well. He claimed that the police had investigated the matter and submitted a closure report. The MLA said he was unable to understand her motive, alleging that the latest claims appeared to be a sinister move to trigger communal violence. He urged police to investigate the matter thoroughly and said he would file a defamation case to get to the root of the issue. Hansraj maintained that the allegations were an attempt to halt development work in Churah and tarnish his image as an emerging leader from Chamba.

'She Is Like My Daughter': Himachal MLA Rejects Harassment Allegations By Chamba Woman

A Chamba woman accuses BJP MLA of harassment, sharing videos and alleging police inaction, while Hans Raj denies all claims and calls it an attempt to incite communal tension.

She Is Like My Daughter: Himachal MLA Denies Allegations Of Harassment

A woman in Chamba, Himachal Pradesh has accused BJP MLA Hans Raj of harassing her and threatening her family members, even as the legislator dismissed the allegations.

Farmer brutally murdered, daughters assaulted by BJP leader in MP's Guna over land dispute

BHOPAL: In a horrific incident on Sunday, a 40-year-old farmer was brutally beaten to death, allegedly by local BJP leader Mahendra Nagar and his aides in Ganeshpura village of Madhya Pradesh's Guna district. The farmer, identified as Ramswaroop Dhakad, was first mercilessly beaten with sticks and rods and was then allegedly run over by an MUV on Sunday afternoon. The brutality, reportedly linked to a dispute over six bighas of land in the adjoining Baran district of Rajasthan, did not end there. The accused men, armed with guns, allegedly prevented anyone in the village from taking the gravely injured farmer to the hospital for nearly an hour, ensuring his death. While villagers remained silent spectators out of fear of the gun-toting men accompanying Nagar, the farmer's daughters, who rushed to save him, were also assaulted and humiliated. When I went to save my father, they pushed me down, sat on me, tore my clothes, and fired shots to scare us. My mother and father were going to the fields when Mahendra, Harish, and Gautam attacked them. Then they ran over my father with the Thar. He screamed, but no one dared to help, as the attackers were armed with guns, recounted the murdered farmers daughter. According to locals, Mahendra Nagar the BJPs local booth committee chief and a former office-bearer of the party's farmers wing in Guna district has long run a reign of terror in Ganeshpura village under the Fatehgarh police station area. He has been grabbing land for years. At least 25 farmers have sold their land at throwaway prices and left the village. Those who dared to resist were either assaulted or driven out. Ramswaroop refused to surrender to Nagars terror and held on to his ten bighas of land in Ganeshpura, while his relatives lived in the adjoining Pachlavada village in Rajasthan. That defiance finally cost him his life, a villager said on condition of anonymity. Sub-Divisional Officer of Police (SDOPBamori) Vivek Asthana confirmed the incident and said a long-running land feud between the deceased farmer and a relative of the local BJP leader was the motive behind the brutal murder. Ramswaroop Dhakad had a dispute with Kanhaiya Nagar over six bighas of land in adjoining Rajasthan. Kanhaiya, a resident of Pachlavada, is a relative of Mahendra. It was this long-running land feud that actually triggered Sundays incident. Mahendra, Kanhaiya, and 1314 others, including some women, attacked Ramswaroop. He sustained multiple fractures all over his body. His daughters, too were assaulted. All of them were taken to the Guna district hospital, but doctors could not save Ramswaroop, Asthana said. A case has been registered against 14 persons, including Mahendra Nagar, his sons Nitesh and Devendra, wife Kamlesh Bai Nagar, nephew Jitendra, and two other women from the Nagar family, under multiple BNS sections related to murder, criminal conspiracy, assault, and outraging the modesty of women. One of the accused, Hukum Singh, Mahendras elder brother, has been arrested, while raids are underway to nab the absconding accused. Meanwhile, Guna district BJP president Dharmendra Sikarwar, while confirming Nagars association with the party, has sought his immediate expulsion. Mahendra Nagar is a party worker and the local booth chief. We have written to senior party leaders seeking his immediate removal, Sikarwar said. According to informed sources, Mahendra Nagar was among the Congress workers who joined the BJP in 2020, after Jyotiraditya Scindia and 22 loyalist MLAs quit the party, toppling the Kamal Nath-led government. Guna is one of three districts in the Gwalior-Chambal region that make up the Guna Lok Sabha constituency, represented by Union Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia.

Snow leopard population in doubled Himachal; two new species recorded for first time

CHANDIGARH: The highly endangered snow leopard population in Himachal Pradesh has almost doubled, rising to 83 from 44 individuals recorded in 2021, according to the latest survey jointly conducted by the Nature Conservation Foundation and the Wildlife Wing of the Himachal Pradesh Forest Department. Significantly, for the first time, two new species, the Pallass cat and the woolly flying squirrel, have also been spotted during this survey. The second state-wide snow leopard assessment report, The Status of Snow Leopard in Himachal Pradesh 2025 , confirms the species strong presence across high-altitude landscapes, particularly in Spiti, Pin Valley, Upper Kinnaur and Tabo, which recorded the highest densities. The copy of the report, which is with this newspaper, reads, Our sampling resulted in 44 individual adult snow leopards identified from 262 independent detections across the six sites. At the level of the sites, our sampling from high occupancy stratum resulted in USL having 12 individual snow leopards from 90 detections, Tabo with 6 individual snow leopards from 46 detections, Pin with 8 individual snow leopards with 35 detections and Kinnaur having 9 individual snow leopards from 58 detections. From the low occupancy stratum, Lahaul-Pangi had 8 individual snow leopards from 32 detections, and Great Himalayan National Park (GHNP) had 1 individual snow leopard from 1 detection. The survey found snow leopard density ranging from 0.16 to 0.53 individuals per 100 km. Using large-scale camera trapping across six representative sites covering nearly 26,000 km, researchers photographed adult leopards 262 times, leading to an estimated state-wide count of 83 adults, excluding cubs. At the state level, our SECR analysis resulted in the estimated snow leopard density of 0.35 (95% CI: 0.23 - 0.53) snow leopards per 100 km and abundance of 83 (95% CI: 67 - 103) adult snow leopards in Himachal Pradesh. Density and abundance in the high occupancy strata were 0.46 (0.37 - 0.57) snow leopards per 100 km and 59 (48 - 73) snow leopards. In the low occupancy strata, density and abundance were 0.18 (0.14 - 0.23) snow leopards per 100 km and 24 (19 - 30) snow leopards, it added. The report further stated that mountain ungulates such as blue sheep and ibex are key determinants of the snow leopard population. It is widely accepted that the availability of wild ungulates determines the population of large carnivores. We found fluctuations in wild ungulate abundance over the years, and the snow leopard density has largely remained constant. Blue sheep fluctuated in abundance from 786 in 2020 to 1,094 in 2024, whereas ibex fluctuated in abundance from 92 in 2020 to 146 in 2024, it read. It is not just snow leopards; during this survey, two new species the Pallass cat and the woolly flying squirrel were also recorded for the first time. This large-scale camera trapping exercise across the state also recorded other mammals residing in snow leopard landscapes of Himachal Pradesh. In 2024, we got a newer and first-time record for two species, the Pallass cat recorded near Nako in Kinnaur, and the Woolly flying squirrel recorded from Miyar Valley in Lahaul, stated the report. The survey states that blue sheep, Himalayan brown bear, Himalayan wolf, Himalayan ibex, common leopard, mountain weasel, Himalayan musk deer, red fox, stone marten and yellow-throated marten were also recorded. The incidental detections of these mammals contribute to refining range maps, documenting previously unrecorded occurrences, and identifying critical biodiversity hotspots within the landscape. These findings enhance understanding of species distribution, habitat use and potential ecological corridors, offering crucial data for conservation planning beyond snow leopards. As seen from the ensemble outputs, the two main prey species of the snow leopard, ibex and blue sheep, are found dispersed across the snow leopard landscape of Himachal Pradesh. The Ibex occurs primarily in rugged areas from around Pin Valley in Spiti going west, including regions of Kibber to Lossar in Spiti and large areas of Lahaul including Bhaga, Miyar and Chandra valleys. Parts of Chamba (Pangi and Bharmour) are also regions of high occurrence for them. The blue sheep on the other hand are a bit more restricted with high occurrence areas around Hangrang valley of Kinnaur and across the Spiti region, particularly Tabo and USL. They prefer more undulating areas with proximity to cliffs, it reads. It further added, Musk deer were predicted to occur predominantly across the Greater Himalayas with particularly high occurrence in Chamba (especially Pangi), parts of Lahaul, Kullu and lower Kinnaur. Musk deer detections were mostly in areas near tree cover. Brown bears were found to occur predominantly across the valleys in Lahaul, Chamba (Pangi and Bharmour), and parts of Kinnaur. Additionally, they were found to occur at the edge of Pin Valley connecting towards the Kullu and Kinnaur regions. They seem to prefer regions along the valley, especially near meadows. Wolves were seen to occur in more rolling, plateau-like areas around Spiti and Lahaul. Interestingly, common leopards were found to have high occurrence along the southern rims of the snow leopard distribution within Himachal Pradesh, with increased occurrence in parts of Kinnaur (upper and lower) and high elevations of Kullu and Chamba. They also were seen to occur in pockets of Lahaul, it concluded. The study followed the Snow Leopard Population Assessment of India protocol, developed by the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, in line with the Global Snow Leopard Ecosystem Protection Programme (GSLEP). Talking to this newspaper, Deputy Conservator of Forest, Spiti Wildlife Division, Goldy Chhabra said, The Spiti landscape is one of Indias most ecologically significant and biodiverse regions. Going forward, our vision is to deepen scientific understanding of the movement ecology of the snow leopard, a keystone species and apex predator of this landscape. Simultaneously, we aim to document lesser-known species, including herpetofauna and amphibians, among others, to showcase the true species richness and ecological importance of the Spiti landscape to the world. Leopard sighting in Haryana A search operation for a leopard was launched and an alert sounded by the forest department in Dhulkot after receiving information about the big cats sighting in a village in Ambala district of Haryana. CCTV footage from the nearby area purportedly showed a wild animal resembling a leopard, they said, but the forest department is yet to confirm its presence. The forest department made an announcement in the village, urging residents to remain vigilant. A search for the animal is underway, according to officials.

MP CM Mohan Yadav transfers Rs 1,541 cr under Ladli Behna scheme, announces hike to Rs 1,500

Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav transferred Rs 1,541 crore to over 1.26 crore women under the Ladli Behna Yojana, announcing an increase in monthly aid to Rs 1,500. He also highlighted the benefits of the Parvati-Kalisindh-Chambal river linking project for farmers and inaugurated development projects worth over Rs 532 crore.

Himachal welcomes seasons first snowfall

CHANDIGARH: The higher reaches of Himachal Pradesh, including Rohtang Pass and Dhauladhar ranges, received the seasons first snowfall on Sunday morning, leading to a drop in the minimum temperature. The Kullu district administration has suspended vehicular traffic to Rohtang Pass and advised commuters not to venture through this highway. A fresh spell of mild snowfall on the Dhauladhar ranges and overnight rainfall in parts of Kangra and Chamba districts brought a dip in temperatures across several hill towns of the hill state ushering in early winter-like conditions. As Dharamsala, McLeodganj, Kangra, Palampur, Dalhousie, Chamba and Bharmour witnessed a significant change in weather, with a sudden chill replacing the warm sunshine of the past few days. Intermittent showers continued through the morning in several parts of the region, leading to the formation of dense fog that blanketed the upper reaches of the mountains. Strong icy winds swept the higher and mid hills of the state followed by severe thunderstorm, lightning and intermittent rains. Also, there were reports of uprooting of trees due to storm and heavy downpour from several parts of the state. According to the Meteorological Department, Dharamsala and its twin town McLeodganj recorded 25.5 mm of rainfall during the night, while Palampur received 10.2 mm, Kangra 18.4 mm and Chamba 4 mm, Brahmani 26.4, Nangal Dam 23 mm, Malraon 22, Bilaspur 20.4 mm and Nainadevi 18.1 mm. Thunderstorm was witnessed in Kufri, Jot, Murari devi, Sundernagar, Bhunter, Kangra and Shimla while gusty winds with velocity of 30 to 61 Kmph lashed Reckongpeo, Tabo, Bilaspur, Hamirpur, Sundernagar and Kukumseri. The minimum temperatures dropped by one to three degrees across HP and Tabo was coldest with a low of 3.1 degrees, followed by Keylong 3.6 degrees, Kalpa and Kukumseri 6.2 degrees and Kufri and Narkanda 10 degrees each. An orange alert has been issued warning of hail, heavy to very rain, thunderstorm, lightning and gusty winds with speeds ranging from 40 to 50 kmph at isolated places in six districts of Chamba, Kangra, Kullu, Mandi, Sirmaur, and Lahaul and Spiti districts on October 6.

Himachal Pradesh sees fresh snowfall and thunderstorms

CHANDIGARH: The high-altitude areas of Himachal Pradesh, including Rohtang Pass and the Dhauladhar ranges, received fresh snowfall on Sunday morning, bringing down the minimum temperature. The Kullu district administration has suspended vehicular traffic to Rohtang Pass and urged commuters to avoid using the highway. A fresh spell of mild snowfall over the Dhauladhar ranges, along with overnight rainfall in parts of Kangra and Chamba districts, has led to a drop in temperatures across several hill towns, ushering in early winter-like conditions. Dharamshala, McLeodganj, Kangra, Palampur, Dalhousie, Chamba, and Bharmour experienced a sudden change in weather, with a sharp chill replacing the warm sunshine of the past few days. Intermittent showers continued through the morning in many parts of the region, causing thick fog to cover the higher mountain areas. Strong winds swept the higher and mid hills of the state, accompanied by thunderstorms, lightning, and intermittent rain. Several reports also came in of trees being uprooted due to the storm and heavy rainfall across the state. According to the Meteorological Department, Dharamshala and its twin town McLeodganj recorded 25.5 mm of rainfall during the night, while Palampur received 10.2 mm, Kangra 18.4 mm and Chamba 4 mm, Brahmani 26.4, Nangal Dam 23 mm, Malraon 22, Bilaspur 20.4 mm and Nainadevi 18.1 mm. Thunderstorm was witnessed in Kufri, Jot, Murari devi, Sundernagar, Bhunter, Kangra and Shimla while gusty winds with velocity of 30 to 61 kmph lashed Reckongpeo, Tabo, Bilaspur, Hamirpur, Sundernagar and Kukumseri. Minimum temperatures fell by one to three degrees across the state. Tabo was the coldest at 3.1 degrees Celsius, followed by Keylong at 3.6 degrees Celsius. Kalpa and Kukumseri recorded 6.2 degrees Celsius each, while Kufri and Narkanda saw 10 degrees Celsius. The weather office has issued an orange alert for October 6, warning of hail, heavy to very heavy rain, thunderstorms, lightning, and gusty winds of 40 to 50 kmph in isolated areas across six districts: Chamba, Kangra, Kullu, Mandi, Sirmaur, and Lahaul and Spiti. Tourist inflow has increased following the withdrawal of the monsoon, which had caused havoc in the state, resulting in losses of over Rs 4,800 crore. Shimla saw a rise in visitors, with a large number of foreign tourists spotted in the city.

Himachal Pradesh to procure naturally grown barley from Pangi at Rs 60 per kilogram

CHANDIGARH: To promote natural farming, the Himachal Pradesh government will, for the first time, begin procuring naturally grown barley from the remote Pangi region in Chamba district from October 8, at a minimum support price (MSP) of Rs 60 per kilogram. An official said the Agriculture Department has completed all preparations for the procurement. Five centres have been set up across Pangi Valley at Hudan, Sechu, Sural, Killar, and Sach, and 80 farmers from the region have registered to benefit from the initiative. Promoting natural farming remains a key priority for the state government, which has already completed the procurement of naturally grown wheat from across Himachal Pradesh. Through 22 centres, a total of 2,123.587 quintals of wheat has been purchased from 838 farmers. The procured wheat is being processed into flour and porridge and will be marketed under the Him-Bhog brand. Farmers have received Rs 1.27 crore for their produce, along with an additional Rs 4.15 lakh as a transport subsidy. It is learnt that the government is committed to promoting naturally grown produce by offering MSPs for various crops: Rs 60 per kg for wheat, Rs 40 for maize, Rs 90 for raw turmeric, and Rs 60 for barley. This initiative not only provides chemical-free food products for consumers but also ensures better prices for farmers practising natural cultivation. State Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu stated that the present State government is dedicated to strengthening the rural economy and putting money directly into the hands of villagers. To achieve this, the government has launched two new initiatives, the Milk Incentive Scheme and the Transport Subsidy Scheme, starting in the Arki Assembly constituency of Solan district. Under the Milk Incentive Scheme, farmers associated with a registered milk cooperative society will receive an incentive of Rs 3 per litre, while under the Transport Subsidy Scheme, private milk societies will also receive Rs 3 per litre as financial assistance for milk collection and transportation. Himachal Pradesh has become the first state in the country where the state government is purchasing cow milk at the rate of Rs 51 per litre and buffalo milk for Rs 61 per litre through the Himachal Pradesh Milk Federation. Sukhu made these claims while launching the Doodh Protsahan Yojana and a freight subsidy scheme at Darlaghat in the Arki assembly segment of Solan district on Saturday.

Curve on Chambakkara-Petta stretch turns death trap

Two youths lost their lives after their bike rammed a metro pillar near Chambakkara market in the early hours of on Oct. 4, 2025; another accident at the same curve had claimed two lives in January

Suspected honour killing: Class XII girl shot dead, body found in MPs Kuwari river

BHOPAL: In a suspected case of honour killing, a 19-year-old Class XII student was allegedly shot dead inside her home and her body allegedly dumped in the Kuwari river in Madhya Pradesh's Morena district. Divya Sikarwar, who belonged to a caste Hindu Kshatriya family, was reportedly shot in the head at her home in Shiv Nagar on the night of September 24. According to reports she is believed to have had a friendship with a youth from a backward caste. Morena district police received a call on Saturday reporting the girls disappearance and possible killing. A team questioned Divyas parents, while her younger brother and sister, both minors, are reported missing. The parents repeatedly changed their statements, initially claiming she died after coming in contact with a ceiling fan and later suggesting suicide. Police subsequently took Divyas father, Bharat Sikarwar, to the Kuwari river near their native village under Bagchini police station, about 30 km from Morena city. He admitted transporting the body in a car, covering it with a plastic sheet, tying a stone to it, and dumping it in the river. The search operations started on Saturday evening but were halted due to darkness. They resumed on Sunday morning, and within a few hours the partially decomposed body was recovered, tied to a stone in the river, Morena district police superintendent Samir Saurabh told TNIE on Sunday. He added: As the body is partially decomposed, the autopsy will be conducted in Gwalior on Monday, and a detailed forensic opinion will be taken there. Our experts, who examined the body, strongly suspect the girl was shot at point-blank range. An inquest of unnatural death has been registered, and a murder case will be lodged based on autopsy findings. Sources familiar with the investigation said the case points to a possible honour killing, noting that the weapon remains untraced, the siblings are missing, and the parents have been inconsistent in their statements. Divyas relationship with a youth from a backward caste is being considered a possible motive. Honour killings over inter-caste relationships are not uncommon in MPs Gwalior-Chambal region, bordering Rajasthan and western Uttar Pradesh. In June 2025, Sirnam Singh was arrested for allegedly killing his Class XI granddaughter Malishkha in Morena over her inter-caste relationship. In January 2025, 20-year-old Tanu Gurjar was shot dead by her father and cousin brother in Gwalior after refusing an arranged marriage. In June 2023, a young girl and her partner were murdered by her father and their bodies dumped in the Chambal river in Morena.

The House of la Baie de lOurs by ACDF Architecture: A Lakeside Timber Retreat in Qubec

ACDF Architectures House of la Baie de lOurs is a timber-clad lakeside retreat in Qubec, uniting bold rooflines, stone walls, and expansive glazing on Lac Archambault. The post The House of la Baie de lOurs by ACDF Architecture: A Lakeside Timber Retreat in Qubec appeared first on Architecture Art Designs .

On Camera, 'Dashrath' Actor Has Cardiac Arrest During Ramlila, Dies On Stage

A real-life tragedy played out on a Ramlila stage in Himachal Pradesh's Chamba when a 70-year-old actor, who was playing King Dashrath, had a cardiac arrest during the performance and collapsed on stage

73-Year-Old Actor Playing King Dashrath In Ramlila Dies Of Heart Attack On Stage

A 73-year-old actor, who was palying the role of King Dashrath, died on stage while enacting a scene during a Ramlila in Himachal Pradesh's Chamba.

MP nod to helicopter service on PPP model for tourist spots, national parks

BHOPAL: Eyeing to connect major cities, religious places, national parks and key tourist destinations through air at affordable prices, the Madhya Pradesh government approved helicopter services within the state on public-private-partnership mode on Tuesday. The services will operate from selected airports, helipads and airstrips divided into three sectors. The first sector will include Omkareshwar, Mandu,Maheshwar, Gandhi Sagar, Mandsaur, Neemuch, Hanuwantiya, Khandwa, Khargone, Burhanpur, Barwani, Alirajpur, Ratlam, Jhabua, Nalkheda, Bhopal and Jabalpur. Sector 2 will include Bhopal, Madhai, Pachmarhi, Tamia, Chhindwara, Sanchi, Indore, Datia, Damoh, Gwalior, Shivpuri, Kuno (Sheopur), Orchha, Guna, Rajgarh, Sagar, Hoshangabad, Betul, Tikamgarh and Jabalpur. The last sector comprises Jabalpur, Bandhavgarh, Kanha, Chitrakoot, Sarsi, Parsili, Maihar, Satna, Panna, Khajuraho, Katni, Rewa, Singrauli, Amarkantak, Seoni, Sidhi, Mandla, Pench, Dindori, Bhopal and Indore. With helicopter services linking Kuno in the Gwalior-Chambal region and Gandhi Sagar in western Madhya Pradesh, the first and second habitats of African cheetahs in India will soon be connected by air. The initiative aims to make travel affordable and sustainable while boosting trade, tourism and job opportunities. Power plant cost revision too gets cabinet nod The cabinet alsoapproved the revised cost of `11,678.7 crore (including non-EPC costs) for the 660 MW Satpura Thermal Power Plant in Betul district, operated by Madhya Pradesh Power Generating Company.

African female cheetah Dheera joins male coalition at MP's Gandhi Sagar Wildlife Sanctuary

BHOPAL: Almost five months after western Madhya Pradeshs Gandhi Sagar Wildlife Sanctuary became the second home for African cheetahs in India, the South African male coalition, Prabhas and Pavak, are set to receive a female companion. Confirming the development, Kuno National Park (KNP) in Sheopur district of the states Gwalior-Chambal region said an important milestone will take place on September 17, 2025, to mark three years of Project Cheetah in India. A female South African cheetah, Dheera, will be translocated from Kuno National Park to Gandhi Sagar Wildlife Sanctuary in Mandsaur on Wednesday, further strengthening Indias efforts in conservation and wildlife revival, KNP said in its official statement. Prabhas and Pavak, part of a batch of 12 South African cheetahs flown to KNP in February 2023, became the first cheetahs to inhabit Gandhi Sagar Wildlife Sanctuary in western MPs Mandsaur-Neemuch districts on April 20, 2025. The female cheetah will now join the male coalition as part of an ambitious mating program aimed at expanding and multiplying the population of the fastest land animal in other parts of Madhya Pradesh, rather than confining them to a single location, KNP said. This development comes two days after a 20-month-old sub-adult female cheetah was found dead, possibly due to the first-ever recorded clash between a leopard and a cheetah in KNP. According to the official statement released by the Field Director of the Cheetah Project on Monday night, the sub-adult female was found dead in the forest around 6.30 pm on Monday. The Indian-born sub-adult female cheetah had been released with her Namibian mother, Jwala, and three siblings on February 21, 2025, in KNP. The female sub-adult had left mother more than a month ago and siblings a few days ago. The preliminary cause of the death seems to be a fight with a leopard. Further details will be known after the post mortem report is received, the statement said. Following this incident, KNP now has 25 cheetahs, including nine African adults (six females and three males) and 16 Indian-born cubs.

Female cheetah cub dies after clash with leopard in Kuno National Park

A 20-month-old female cheetah cub has died at this district's Kuno National Park, in Chambal Division, and the management said that prima facie, the death appeared to be a consequence of a clash with a leopard over hunting or territory.

RSS-associated Bharatiya Kisan Sangh protests against farmers' issues across Madhya Pradesh

BHOPAL: The RSS-associated agrarian outfit Bhartiya Kisan Sangh (BKS) took to the streets across BJP-ruled Madhya Pradesh on Monday over farmers related issues , particularly problems related to the distribution of fertilisers. According to an official statement from the BKS in Bhopal, the party conducted a protest at all district headquarters across state and submitted memorandums to the respective district administrations. The party has also addressed this issue to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Madhya Pradesh CM Dr Mohan Yadav. Since the last many days, the BKS office bearers, along with thousands of farmers have been raising farmers' issues, including those about electricity problems, fertilizer related woes, spurious pesticides and seeds related problems via memorandums submitted at tehsil levels. But with the government not paying attention, the protests happened at the district headquarters level followed by the submission of memorandums to the district administrations on Monday, the BKS statement added. The BKS protests across the state on a host of farmers issues, including the fertiliser supply-related problem, happened three days after the opposition Congress workers had reportedly forced the motorcade of union agriculture minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan to stop on the road in Satna district of Vindhya region. Chouhan subsequently stepped out of his car and met the Congress activists and farmers led by local MLA Siddharth Kushwaha and assured to take up the matter about the supply of fertilizers with the central government and the MP CM Dr Mohan Yadav. In the recent past, there have been reports about police using force on farmers lined up outside fertiliser supply centres in Rewa and Bhind districts. On Monday, there were reports about clashes between two groups of farmers outside a fertiliser distribution centre in Gwalior-Chambal regions Morena district, which reportedly resulted in injuries to at least three farmers. In Sheopur district of the same region, angered over the delay in distribution of fertilisers, farmers reportedly pelted stones outside one of the centres. While the RSS-associated BKS activists submitted memorandums across the state at individual district headquarters on Monday on a host of farmers issues, the farmer outfits national general secretary Mohini Mohan Mishra will be in Ujjain on Tuesday. Mishra will participate in a mega farmers tractors rally over the issue of building a permanent spiritual city in Ujjain ahead of Simhastha (Kumbh Fair) 2028 through land pooling of farmers' lands. Meanwhile, the states CM allayed the farmers' fears pertaining to the Land Pooling Act, ahead of the BKSs Tuesday protest in Ujjain. Our feeling is that we should communicate with everyone and think about the interests of all. The government is working to promote religious tourism by working on security arrangements, better management and permanent structures in Maha Kumbh. The government is taking all the farmers along, the CM said.

Himachal apple farmers in dire straits as monsoon wreaks havoc

CHANDIGARH: Himachal Pradesh's Rs 5000 crore apple industry have been badly affected after the monsoon wreaked havoc in the state. The quality of the fruit has significantly dropped due to a fungal disease, which is causing the leaves and apples to fall prematurely. Hence, there are more culled apples. The apple growers couldn't transport their crops as the road connectivity was badly affected due to landslides trigerred by flash-floods, heavy rains and cloudbursts. It is estimated that there will be a huge loss to the apple growers. The road connectivity in the apple belts of the state has been affected. The apple growers in Kullu, Kinnaur, Shimla, Mandi, Chamba, and upper Shimla are facing an uphill task in sending apples as hundreds of damaged roads are still to be repaired. In many areas, farmers are hiring workers to manually carry apple boxes across a damaged stretch of the roads and highway, thus raising the cost of transportation. In Kinnaur, the frequent closure of National Highway 5 at Nigulsari has created problems for the farmers of the district. There are scores of villages in Parvati and Banjar valleys where farmers had started harvesting but had to stop midway last month after the road connectivity was lost. On the other hand, the market rates have dropped to their lowest as the traders are reluctant to buy from local markets in Kullu and Mandi because the Kiratpur-Manali highway remained mostly blocked in August, resulting in a drop in the market rates. Over 1.57 crore apple boxes have been marketed within and outside the state until now. The number of marketed boxes would have been higher if the roads were not blocked or washed in various parts of the apple belt. Last year's data, till September 11, shows that 1.13 crore boxes reached the market. This year's high production, which is 45 lakh more boxes than last year, could be attributed to high production in the lower apple belts of the state, which has been nearly three times higher this year as compared to last year. Cloudburst in Himachals Bilaspur; several vehicles buried in debris, farms damaged As till August 20 this year, over 88 lakh boxes had been marketed. In the corresponding period last year, only around 32.6 lakh boxes had been marketed. The harvesting in the lower belts normally ends by August 15. Talking to TNIE , Sanyukt Kisan Manch (SKM) Himachal Pradesh, convener Harish Chauhan said that the apple season is at its peak, but as the roads had been blocked due to landslides, the apples could not be transported from the orchards to the market and in many instances, the apple crop got rotten lying in the orchards or in the trucks. Now, slowly, the road connectivity is opening up. The apple growers have suffered major losses this season, much worse than the 2023 natural disaster. The farmers could not send their crop to the market for days as roads were blocked, due to heavy rainfall, and a fungal disease attack had caused apples and leaves to fall prematurely. The final data will come later once the situation is completely assessed. But it is estimated that around 40 per cent of the apples fell in all the orchards across the state and about 60 to 70 per cent leaves fell, he claims. Chauhan says that due to the fungal disease and the premature drop, the `A grade apples, which cost between Rs 1,500 to Rs 2000 a box in the market, now cost Rs 700 to Rs 800. The apples are now marked in 'B' or 'C' category as stains have appeared on them due to premature fall, small size and faded colour. Due to all these factors it is estimated that the apple growers might suffer a loss of Rs 800 to Rs 1000 crore, but final figures can be confirmed after the complete report, he claimed. Sources said that around 43,930 MT of apples have been bought under the Market Intervention Scheme until now through 227 collection centres opened in various parts of the apple growing area. The apples bought through MIS until now are significantly higher compared to the corresponding period last year, when just a little over 15,000 MT apple were procured. The heavy hail and premature leaf fall are the major reasons behind such a spike in the procurement of culled apples this year. Last year, around 2.11 crore boxes of apples this year it was expected to be more than 3 lakh boxes but now it is estimated that around 2.50 to 3 crore boxes. Meanwhile, under the Market Intervention Scheme (MIS) around 43,000 metric tonnes of apples (`C and `D grade) have been bought and the figure might touch 50,000 MT. These apples are brought by the state government at Rs 12 per Kg and then pulp and juice is taken out and are also auctioned, Chauhan said. Another leading apple grower, Rakesh Singha, said, The apple season this year is the historically worst as in early April hailstorms came, and at that time the apple crops blossomed thus it was affected then in May heavy rains started. Also, two fungal diseases: Alternaria and Marssonina attacked the crop, thus the leaves of the fruit did not develop. This year's record apple crop has gone into the MIS. On the other hand, the production cost has been very high due to the fact that growers use sprays to save the crop and high transportation charges. While Hemis Negi, Managing Director of Himachal Pradesh State Agriculture Marketing Board (HPAAMB) said that so far at least 1.61 crore boxes have reached the market of these 1.02 crore in Shimla and Kinnaur markets and 23.45 lakh cantons in Solan.

Mauritius PM Ramgoolam lauds Uttarakhands serene beauty during four-day visit

DEHRADUN: Dr Navinchandra Ramgoolam, the Prime Minister of Mauritius, arrived in Uttarakhand on Friday for a four-day official visit, receiving a grand welcome that highlighted the states growing international appeal. The visit is expected to bolster cultural ties and explore avenues for tourism cooperation between the two regions. The Prime Minister, accompanied by his wife Veena Ramgoolam, landed at Dehraduns Jolly Grant Airport around 3 pm aboard a special aircraft. He was warmly greeted by a high-level delegation, including Uttarakhand Cabinet Minister Ganesh Joshi, Principal Secretary R.K. Sudhanshu, DGP Deepam Seth, Dehradun District Magistrate Savin Bansal, and Senior Superintendent of Police Ajay Kumar. As his motorcade proceeded towards Narendra Nagar, the route was lined with enthusiastic school students and NCC cadets, who waved flags and cheered. At Indramani Badoni Chowk, the welcome intensified with NCC and school bands performing, creating a vibrant atmosphere for the visiting dignitary. Students were seen waving their hands in a gesture of warm greeting. Upon reaching Narendra Nagar, Dr Ramgoolam and his entourage were treated to a traditional Uttarakhandi welcome at their five-star hotel. Local women, adorned in traditional attire, sang folk songs and applied tilak on his forehead, a gesture of respect and hospitality. Visibly impressed by the states breathtaking landscapes, Prime Minister Ramgoolam lauded Uttarakhands natural charm. The serene beauty of Uttarakhand is truly captivating, he reportedly remarked. We hope this visit will open new doors for cultural exchange and tourism, allowing more Mauritians to experience this incredible region. The Prime Minister and his wife were reportedly mesmerised by the picturesque views of Rishikesh from their hotel. During their four-day stay, which concludes on 15 September, the couple is scheduled to visit other significant spiritual and cultural sites, including Rishikesh and Haridwar. Officials anticipate that this high-profile visit will significantly boost Uttarakhands tourism sector and strengthen cultural ties between Mauritius and India, particularly with the Himalayan state. Elaborate security arrangements were in place throughout the Prime Ministers journey. A zero zone was declared from Jolly Grant Airport to Dhalwala for approximately 30 minutes, leading to temporary traffic halts at key junctions such as Indramani Badoni Chowk. Further stringent measures were implemented in Tehri district, with the entire stretch from Dhalwala to the Narendranagar bypass designated a zero zone. Vehicles arriving from the Chamba side were temporarily stopped at Bhadrakali and the bypass until the VIP convoy had passed, ensuring a smooth and secure passage. Traffic resumed normalcy only after the Prime Ministers convoy had cleared the area.

Two hospitals in Himachal Pradesh receive bomb threats; buildings evacuated

SHIMLA: Shri Lal Bahadur Shastri Medical College and Hospital on Ner Chowk of Mandi district and Pandit Jawahar Lal Nehru Government Medical College in Chamba district on Tuesday received bomb threats, police said. According to reports, the hospitals received emails that read, four RDX 800-silicon base fuses are purposely doped to cause minimal casualties. Mandi Headquarters DSP Dinesh Kumar said the entire area was secured and a search was underway. The hospitals were evacuated and bomb disposal and dog squads scoured the premises, the officer said. Earlier this year, many major government institutions of the state, including the State Secretariat, High Court and DC Mandi's office, received such threats. They all turned out to be hoaxes.

Woman, 2 children found dead

Excelsior Correspondent RAMBAN, Sept 8: Panic spread across the peaceful Banihal area today after three dead bodies including that of a lady and two minor children, a girl and a boy, were found under mysterious circumstances. Follow the Daily Excelsior channel on WhatsApp The bodies were spotted under a bridge in Chambalwas, area of Banihal alongside National Highway 44 late this afternoon following which cops and rescue teams reached the spot. When contacted, Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Ramban, Arun [] The post Woman, 2 children found dead appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Head constable suspended for cane-charging farmers waiting outside fertiliser distribution centre in Bhind

BHOPAL:Farmers waiting for their turn to get their share of fertilisers at a government fertiliser distribution centre were lathi-charged by a cop in Bhind district of Madhya Pradeshs Gwalior-Chambal region on Monday. The video of the incident that went viral showed a cop assaulting farmers lined up outside a cooperative society office in the Lahar area of Bhind district. According to the farmers, the cop cane-charged them without any reason, causing injuries to three to four farmers. Notably, the fertiliser distribution process had resumed at the concerned centre after three days of holiday. Followingly, the Bhind district police superintendent Dr Asit Yadav, ordered the suspension of the head constable Ramraj Singh Gurjar. A departmental probe has been ordered against the head constable and a report is sought within seven days. The incident happened just six days after farmers, queuing up for fertilisers, were reportedly lathi-charged in Rewa district of eastern MP. Importantly, Bhind district is the same district, where third-time BJP MLA Narendra Singh Kushwah had indulged in a noisy and abusive brawl with the district collector at the latters residence, allegedly over the fertilizers issue. As per official sources within the government, Bhind district is among those districts of MP, where fertiliser crisis continues to prevail. Not just the non-BJP parties and farmers' outfits, but the Bhartiya Kisan Sangh (BKS) -- the RSS-associated farmers' outfit -- has also protested in Bhind in the recent past over the mismanagement of fertiliser distribution. Last week, the states CM Dr Mohan Yadav had chaired a high-level meeting over the issue in Bhopal. At the meeting, the CM directed that the district administration in all districts should make necessary arrangements regarding the distribution of fertilizers in the districts. If there is chaos regarding fertiliser distribution in the districts, then the District Collector will be responsible for it, the CM had maintained. While ensuring proper distribution of the available fertilisers, keep in constant dialogue and contact with the representatives of the farmers' organisations. Representatives of the farmers' organisation should also be included in the fertiliser distribution system. Intensive review of fertilizer availability in the districts should be done, the CM had directed last week. Also, share the information about the stock of fertiliser available in the district with the public representatives, this will help in making the farmers aware of the actual status of fertilizer availability in the district. The district administration should compulsorily conduct surprise verification and monitoring of double lock, PACS and private sales centres. If additional sales centres are required, their operation should be started immediately, the CM had also directed. While maintaining that there was no shortage of fertilisers for the Kharif 2025 season, the officials informed the meeting about the action taken so far against those indulging in black marketing, illegal storage-transportation of fertilisers as well as spurious fertilisers. 53 FIRs were registered and action was taken for 88 license cancellations, 102 license suspensions and 406 sales bans, the officials informed in the meeting.

Himachal Pradesh faces Rs 4,079 crore loss following rain-related disasters

CHANDIGARH: Himachal Pradesh has suffered a loss of Rs 4,079 crore following rain-related incidents in the state. The heavy rainfall in this monsoon season which started from June 20 triggered 45 cloudbursts, 95 flash floods and 135 major landslides. As per the data from the State Emergency Operation Centre, 366 people have died in rain-related incidents and road accidents in the state. Out of these, 203 died in rain-related incidents, including 42 in landslides, 17 in cloudbursts and nine in flash floods, 41 are still missing. 163 died in road accidents. A total of 6,025 houses and 455 shops or factories have been fully or partially damaged. A total of 869 roads, including three national highways, Mandi-Dharampur road, Old Hindustan-Tibet road and Aut-Sainj road, are blocked. A maximum number of 227 roads were blocked in Kullu, followed by 191 in Mandi, 154 in Shimla and 116 in Chamba. Rains batter Himachal: Seven killed as houses buried under landslide; over 1,150 roads closed The Shimla-Theog road in the heart of the apple belt in Shimla district is closed near Chaila since Saturday due to continuous landslides in the area, and a large number of vehicles, including apple-laden trucks and tempos, are stranded en route. Also, 1,572 power transformers and 389 water supply schemes were disrupted. Meanwhile, the search and rescue operations in Bharmaur-Manimahesh in Chamba district were called off yesterday. A total of 17 devotees have died since the Manimahesh yatra started on August 15. The IMD had issued yellow warnings of thunderstorms and lightning in isolated areas of the state on Sunday and Monday. The state had received an average rainfall of 943.2 mm from June 1 to September 6 against the normal rainfall of 648.1 mm, an excess of 46 per cent. Meanwhile, the Himachal Pradesh High Court has established a dedicated Chief Justice Disaster Relief Fund 2025 and appealed for voluntary contributions not just from institutions but also from individuals across the judicial and legal fraternity to help the people. Himachal Pradesh declared disaster-affected state by CM Sukhu

Himachal CM urges BJP MPs to push Centre for forest land allocation, special relief package

CHANDIGARH: Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu has urged the BJP and its Members of Parliament to seek the Central Governments support for approving the allotment of one bigha of forest land per disaster-affected family, along with a special relief package. He pointed out that 68 per cent of the states land is categorised as forest land, and without the Centres approval, the state government cannot provide such land. CM Sukhu also said that the state government has prepared a project worth Rs 3,000 crore to obtain assistance from the World Bank for disaster management and rehabilitation. The Chief Minister conducted an aerial survey of disaster-affected areas in Kullu and Manali districts. During his visit to Kullu, CM Sukhu reviewed the damage caused by flash floods and cloudbursts in various regions and interacted with affected families, assuring them of all possible assistance from the state government. The state government is extending assistance to affected families from its own limited resources, as no support has so far been received from the Central Government. We have requested the Centre to provide one bigha of forest land to each affected family to help them resettle in safer locations, CM Sukhu said. He further urged BJP MPs to press the Central Government for approval of this request and for the sanction of a special relief package. BJP leaders are active only on social media, but they have done nothing on the ground for the disaster-hit people. On the other hand, Congress leaders are reaching out to the people and working to alleviate the hardships caused by the disaster, he remarked. CM Sukhu said that the state government has prepared a 3,000 crore project to secure World Bank assistance for disaster management and rehabilitation of affected families. One dead, 5 missing as landslides triggered by heavy rains wreak havoc in Himachal The Chief Minister added that this years monsoon had caused widespread devastation across the state, resulting in heavy loss of life and property. During the past four days, rainfall has caused further damage in various parts of the state. The government is extending every possible support to those affected and has directed district administrations to provide maximum assistance to affected families, he said. CM Sukhu informed that the administration had deployed Army Chinook and MI-17 helicopters to rescue devotees stranded during the Manimahesh Yatra in Chamba district. A total of 605 devotees were safely evacuated from Bharmour and transported free of cost to their destinations in HRTC buses on Thursday, he said. The government has also cancelled all examinations in the state due to adverse weather and road conditions. He said the government was also making efforts to transport the produce of farmers and orchardists from disaster-affected regions to the markets. At present, the top priority is to restore roads and ensure essential services such as electricity and water supply at the earliest. Families whose houses have been completely destroyed are being provided with financial assistance of 7.70 lakh by the state government. Compensation will also be given for the loss of livestock, CM Sukhu added. The Chief Minister departed for Kullu from Jubbarhatti Airport in Shimla in an Air Force helicopter, carrying rations and essential supplies. He inspected damaged roads, bridges and private properties at Vashisth Chowk, Manali, Bahang and Old Manali. He also visited devastation sites at Akhara Bazaar in Kullu, where heavy landslides buried several houses, causing deaths. CM Sukhu instructed the administration to accelerate relief and rescue operations and directed BRO officials to restore the damaged road at the earliest. He also inspected the damaged Bhootnath and Bhuntar bridges during the visit.

Himachal rain fury: Landslip in Kullu leaves 1 dead, 6 buried

A total of 1,212 roads are closed in Himachal Pradesh, of which 289 were blocked in Mandi, 231 in Kullu, 211 in Shimla, 192 in Chamba district

Fertilizer shortage raise the hackles of RSS-affiliated Bhartiya Kisan Sangh in BJP-ruled Madhya Pradesh

BHOPAL: Fertilizer shortage in parts of Madhya Pradesh has not only sparked protests by political parties and farmers outfits opposed to the ruling BJP, patience of farmers outfit affiliated to the RSS--Bhartiya Kisan Sangh (BKS) has also started waning lately. Lately, protests under the banner of BKS have been reported in Bhind, Morena and Shivpuri (Gwalior-Chambal region), Narmadapuram and Raisen (central MP), Khandwa and Barwani (southwestern MP) and Jabalpur in Mahakoshal region of the state. The BKS-associated farmers have protested over chaos in distribution of all three types of main chemical fertilizers Urea, DAP and NPK in Bhind district of Gwalior-Chambal region, where the third-time BJP MLA Narendra Singh Kushwah had recently indulged in noisy and abusive spat with district collector Sanjeev Srivastava, allegedly over the issue. CM Dr Mohan Yadav has announced there is no shortage of fertilizers in the state. But in reality, there is shortage of fertilizers in various districts of the state. It's not the CM's duty to see to the distribution of fertilizers, it's the official machinery which does it., Rahul Dhoot, the Prant Prachar Pramukh of BKSs Madhya Bharat Prant told TNIE on Thursday. He said that chaos and mismanagement in distribution of fertilizers is witnessed across the state. Weve already been staging protests in parts of the state wherever there is chaos in distribution of fertilizers. On September 15, the BKS will resort to statewide agitation over the issue and hand over memorandum of demands to collectors in each district of the state, he added. The shortage of fertilizers is created by the system, which is hand in glove with the black marketeers and private players, Dhoot further alleged. While the BKS is gearing up for massive protests on the issue on September 15, the fourth-time BJP MP from Satna seat of Vindhya region Ganesh Singh has also expressed concern over the situation through an official statement. Im pained by the long queues of farmers. There is complete lack of transparency in distribution of chemical fertilizers. Farmers are forced to buy from the private sector at a higher prices. The small farmers are the worst hit in the present situation. The district administration will get whatever cooperation it wants from me and the party (BJP) for promptly improving the system of fertilizer distribution, Singh said in the official statement. A powerful OBC Kurmi caste leader from Vindhya region, Singh hails from Satna district, where the local MLA and state minister Pratima Bagri had to reportedly change her route due to farmers fury over the fertilizer crisis. In the adjoining Rewa district, the local police reportedly resorted to lathi-charge to disperse the agitated farmers waiting in line for hours to get fertilizers on Tuesday night. Concerned over the situation, the chief minister Dr Mohan Yadav chaired a high-level meeting over the issue in Bhopal on Wednesday. At the meeting, the CM directed that the district administration in all districts should make necessary arrangements regarding the distribution of fertilizers in the districts. If there is chaos regarding fertilizer distribution in the districts, then the District Collector will be held responsible for it, the CM maintained. While ensuring proper distribution of the available fertilizers, representatives of the farmers' organization should also be roped in in the distribution process, the CM said. He also directed for intensive review of fertilizer availability in the districts. The district administration should compulsorily conduct surprise verification and monitoring of double lock, PACS and private sales centres. If additional sales centres are required, their operation should be started immediately, the CM directed. While maintaining that there was no shortage of fertilizers for the Kharif 2025 season, the officials informed the meeting about the action taken so far against those indulging in black marketing, illegal storage-transportation of fertilizers as well as spurious fertilizers. 53 FIRs were registered and action was taken for 88 license cancellation, 102 license suspension and 406 sales bans, the officials informed the meeting.

Himachal govt launches massive rescue operation to evacuate Manimahesh pilgrims

CHANDIGARH: The Himachal Pradesh Government has launched a massive rescue operation to evacuate the stranded pilgrims of Manimahesh Yatra from Chamba. While 35 ailing and elderly pilgrims were safely airlifted by helicopter, another 500 devotees were sent by vehicles from Bharmour to Chamba. The Chamba district administration launched the operation to safely evacuate devotees stranded during the Manimahesh Yatra. The authorities on Thursday began transporting nearly 500 devotees from Bharmour to Chamba by vehicles. At certain stretches, where roads have been damaged, adequate security personnel were deployed for their assistance and to ensure their safety. In addition, free food, drinking water, transport and other essential facilities have been arranged en-route to prevent any inconvenience to them. A state government spokesperson said that despite adverse weather conditions, 35 ailing and elderly devotees were safely airlifted to Chamba by a small helicopter, which completed seven sorties during the day. The MI-17 helicopter of Air Force has also been stationed at Pathankot to meet any exigency. He further stated that Revenue Minister Jagat Singh Negi has been personally supervising the rescue operation on the ground for the past several days. Travelling on foot, he reached Bharmour from Chamba and has been tirelessly engaged in ensuring the safety of the devotees. He said that the state government was committed to safeguard the lives and property of its people as well as the visiting pilgrims and tourists from several parts.

MoEFCC seeks four weeks' time to review responses of Uttarakhand, Himachal on protection of Himalayas

The Union Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) has requested a four-week extension from the National Green Tribunal (NGT) to review the responses of Uttarakhand and Himachal Pradesh regarding measures to declare the Higher Himalayas as an eco-sensitive zone and ensure its protection. On December 18, 2023, the NGT directed the formation of a Joint Committee to recommend measures for declaring the Higher Himalayas as an eco-sensitive zone. The Committee submitted its final report on July 11, 2024, which recommended several measures, including the establishment of early warning systems, strict regulation of construction, promotion of sustainable tourism, afforestation, a ban on single-use plastics, and the involvement of local communities. After the Committee's report, both Uttarakhand and Himachal Pradesh submitted their responses to the NGT, detailing the steps they have already taken in line with the recommendations. The MoEFCC has requested four weeks to review these responses. The matter is scheduled for the next hearing on November 28, 2025. The Uttarakhand government outlined the measures it has already implemented. This includes commissioning a carrying capacity study for tourists at Char Dham, which has been awarded to the Wildlife Institute of India, and preparing a master plan for an effective drainage system. Besides, the state has established the Uttarakhand Landslide Mitigation and Management Centre to manage and reduce landslides effectively. Training programs are also being conducted for local residents on environmental conservation, specifically concerning wildlife (flora and fauna). Himalayas facing the heat with higher temperature prediction, floods & more However, the Uttarakhand government did not provide information regarding the afforestation of degraded slopes or the planting of broad-leaved native trees, such as oaks. In its response, the Himachal Pradesh government noted that it has installed three Doppler radars in Shimla (Kufri), Chamba (Jot), and Mandi (Murari Devi) to predict early warnings for abnormal weather conditions, river flow, and snow melting, which are communicated downstream for better management. Furthermore, the government has set up 48 Automatic Weather Stations (AWS), Automatic Rain Gauges (ARG), and Automatic Snow Gauges (ASG) in Community Development Blocks currently lacking these facilities. Additionally, the Himachal Pradesh government stated that it has adopted a policy that allows the construction of hydroelectric projects in the state, following the provisions laid out in this policy. Construction begins only after obtaining technical concurrence for the Detailed Project Report (DPR) from the competent authority. This provision covers all aspects related to geological and geotechnical investigations. Environment Impact Assessments (EIA) are conducted by project developers to implement necessary measures for mitigating any adverse environmental impacts.

One dead, 5 missing as landslides triggered by heavy rains wreak havoc in Himachal

CHANDIGARH: At least nine people were buried under heavy debris and mud after a landslide struck Inner Akhara Bazaar in Kullu district of Himachal Pradesh early today. One body has been recovered, three injured persons rescued, and the search for five others is ongoing. The landslide struck around two houses in the congested Inner Akhara Bazaar locality in Kullu early this morning, as residents were asleep, causing widespread panic. Personnel from the District Disaster Management Authority, local police, and district administration are carrying out rescue operations to locate the five people still trapped under the debris. The rescue teams have been working tirelessly, but operations have been hampered due to inclement weather and precarious terrain. Talking to TNIE , Superintendent of Police of Kullu, Kathikeyan Gokulachandran, said that the landslide, triggered by incessant rain, occurred in Inner Akhara Bazaar and buried two to three houses. While the body of one person has been recovered, three critically injured people have been rushed to the Regional Hospital in Kullu for treatment. The search for the remaining five, including three Kashmiri laborers and a woman, is ongoing as rescue teams continue clearing the debris, he said. Yesterday, another landslide occurred in the same area, burying two people under debris. Rescue teams have so far been unable to trace them, despite ongoing search operations. An NDRF jawan who got buried under debris yesterday was pulled out alive after 24 hours but remains in critical condition. The administration has issued warnings to locals in vulnerable areas and urged people to remain alert and avoid travel to high-risk zones. Several areas across the state have reported similar incidents, resulting in severe damage to both public infrastructure and private property. Meanwhile, a landslide in Shimla caused deodar trees to fall on houses in the Benmore area, where government quarters and bungalows of some ministers and judges are situated. The retaining wall, which had collapsed a fortnight ago, slid down, causing further damage to the road and endangering the safety of the houses in the area. Rains batter Himachal: Seven killed as houses buried under landslide; over 1,150 roads closed The water level at the Pong Dam this morning touched 1,394.51 feet, the highest level recorded this year, above the maximum mark of 1,390 feet for the fifth consecutive day. The average inflow was 1,32,595 cusecs, while the actual inflow was 1,07,301 cusecs. The average outflow was 91,167 cusecs. To regulate the rising water level, Bhakhra Beas Management Board (BBMB) authorities released 99,769 cusecs downstream, including 74,179 cusecs through the spillway and 16,988 cusecs through turbines. According to the Meteorological Department, Himachal has received 62 per cent more rainfall than normal this season. Against a normal of 632 mm between June 1 and September 3, the state has recorded 921 mm. Shimla district alone has seen 110 per cent excess rainfall, while Kullu registered 107 per cent above normal. Other districts, including Bilaspur, Solan, Una, and Mandi, have also received far higher than average rainfall. As many as 1,286 roads, including six National Highways, remain blocked due to landslides triggered by the heavy downpour, according to the State Emergency Operation Centre. The distribution across districts is: 293 in Mandi, 216 in Shimla, 225 in Kullu, 204 in Chamba, 91 in Sirmaur, 71 in Solan, 53 in Kangra, 47 in Lahaul and Spiti, 31 in Bilaspur, 39 in Una, and 4 in Hamirpur. Additionally, 2,809 electricity distribution transformers and 1,081 water supply schemes have been disrupted, affecting power and water supply in many parts of the state. Himachal Pradesh declared disaster-affected state by CM Sukhu

Incessant rains: DC Kulgam visits several areas, takes spot appraisal of current situation

KULGAM, Sept 3: Deputy Commissioner (DC) Kulgam, Athar Aamir Khan, along with SSP Kulgam, Sahil Sarangal, today visited several areas including Khudwani, Qaimoo, Brazloo, Chambagund, Aadpora and other locations to take stock of the situation arisen due to incessant rains. During the visit, DC inspected the situation at these places and interacted with the local people. It was informed that the water level near Khudwani had crossed the danger mark and people from vulnerable spots were shifted to safer locations. [] The post Incessant rains: DC Kulgam visits several areas, takes spot appraisal of current situation appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Rains batter Himachal: 5 dead in house collapses, 1,337 roads closed, schools shut in 3 districts

SHIMLA: Five people were killed in house collapse incidents as torrential rains triggered landslides and flash floods across Himachal Pradesh on Tuesday, blocking 1,337 roads, including four national highways, officials said. The local meteorological office has issued an orange alert, warning of heavy rain in isolated areas of Kangra, Mandi, Sirmaur and Kinnaur districts on Wednesday and a yellow alert for heavy rain in Una and Bilaspur districts. In Solan district's Samloh village, a woman died after she was buried under the debris of her house that collapsed following heavy rain late on Monday. The deceased was identified as Hemlata. Her husband, Heem Ram, four children, and her 85-year-old handicapped mother-in-law escaped with minor injuries. In another incident, a man and a woman were rescued from the rubble after their house caved in following rain in Kullu's Dhalpur. The woman later succumbed to her injuries, police said, adding that the details of the deceased were awaited. Officials said that a landslide that occurred near Jangam Bagh BBMB colony in Sundernagar in Mandi district on Tuesday evening claimed three lives -- two women and a child. The deceased have been identified as Bharti (28) and her 2.5-year-old daughter Kirtan. They were rescued and taken to hospital where they were declared dead. One of the bodies is yet to be identified, they said. Two-three more people are feared trapped under the debris, the officials said. The teams of National Disaster Response Force and State Disaster Response Force and police are carrying out the rescue operations, Deputy Commissioner Mandi, Apporv Devgan, who was at the spot, told the PTI. All government and private educational institutes, including coaching centres and nursing institutes, in Shimla, Kangra and Sirmaur districts have been ordered to remain shut on Wednesday. Deputy Commissioner Anupam Kashyap, in an order issued on Tuesday evening, said Shimla has been experiencing continuous rainfall for the last few days and there was a high possibility of landslides at several locations across the district, according to the latest Geological Survey of India forecast. Teachers and administrative staff are exempted from attending educational institutions, and online classes will be conducted, the order said. In view of an orange warning of heavy rains, educational institutions will remain shut in Kangra and Sirmaur districts, orders issued by the respective deputy commissioners of the two districts said. A vehicle stuck in Manalsu drain, flowing in spate, after heavy monsoon rain, at Manali in Kullu district, Himachal Pradesh, Tuesday, Sept. 2, 2025. About nine villages in Manali were cut off after floods in the Manalsu drain, which also obstructed the Manali-Leh route. A landslide behind the Paddal gurdwara area in Mandi town damaged two houses on Monday night. However, no casualties were reported as the residents evacuated on time, the officials said. The two affected families have been shifted to safer locations, while occupants of nearby houses facing similar risks have vacated their homes, they said. An under-construction house was damaged following a landslide in the Anni area of Kullu district. No casualty was reported as the house had already been declared unsafe during the 2023 monsoon disaster and was vacant. As many as 16 families have been asked to vacate their houses after cracks developed in Dadwal village in the Naina Devi area of Bilaspur district, according to the officials. The document verification of shortlisted candidates for the post of constable in Himachal Pradesh Police has been postponed in view of the roads being blocked due to heavy rains. The verification drive that was supposed to be held from September 4 to 9 will now take place from September 24 to 29, a statement issued here said. Of the 1,337 blocked roads, 282 are in Mandi, 255 in Shimla, 239 in Chamba, 205 in Kullu and 140 in Sirmaur district, among others. National Highway 3 (Mandi-Dharampur road), National Highway 305 (Aut-Sainj), National Highway 5 (Old Hindustan-Tibet road) and National Highway 707 (Hatkoti to Poanta) were also blocked, the State Emergency Operation Centre (SEOC) said. The Shimla-Kalka National Highway 5, also known as the Hindustan-Tibet Road, and the Chandigarh-Manali Highway were also obstructed by landslides, causing major inconvenience to commuters. The situation is much severe in the interior regions where link roads have remained blocked, preventing apple producers from transporting their produce to the markets. On Monday, trains plying on the Shimla-Kalka track were cancelled following landslips. Services will remain suspended till September 5, the officials said. Efforts are afoot to send about 5,000 Manimahesh pilgrims stuck in Chamba district back home. Sixteen pilgrims have died since the yatra started on August 15, they said. Naina Devi has received 198.2 mm of rain since Monday evening, the highest in the state. Manali received 89 mm of rainfall, Rohru 80 mm, Mandi 78.2 mm, Dharamshala 76.3 mm, Kukumseri 74.2 mm, Chamba 72 mm, Bhuntar 69.7 mm, Jot 61.2 mm, Nahan 59.7 mm, Baggi 58.5 mm, Keylong and Una 57 mm each, Nadaun 53 mm and Olinda 50 mm. At least 340 people have died in rain-related incidents and road accidents, while 41 are missing since the monsoon began, the SEOC data showed. As many as 2,180 power transformers and 777 water supply schemes were disrupted across the state on Monday, the SEOC said. Since the onset of monsoon in Himachal on June 20, the state has witnessed 95 flash floods, 45 cloudbursts and 121 major landslide incidents. The state has suffered losses to the tune of Rs 3,523 crore this monsoon so far, according to official data. 380 tourists evacuated from Sissu, Manimahesh Yatris stranded in Chamba as Himachal reels under heavy rains

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IMD issues red alert for Northwest India

NEW DELHI: In anticipation of extremely heavy rainfall and thunderstorms, the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a red alert for Northwest India, including Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, West Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, and Delhi . IMD predicts the rain intensity levels may exceed 210 mm in certain areas over the next three days. It has also predicted an imminent risk of flash floods in several watersheds and neighborhoods of Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, and Haryana. Residents are advised to remain vigilant over the next 24 hours as severe weather conditions are expected. In Himachal Pradesh, the districts most at risk include Chamba, Kangra, Kinnaur, Kullu, Mandi, Shimla, Sirmaur, and Solan. In Uttarakhand, the vulnerable districts are Chamoli, Champawat, Dehradun, Nainital, Pauri Garhwal, Pithoragarh, Rudraprayag, Tehri Garhwal, and Uttarkashi. The plains of Haryana, Chandigarh, and Delhispecifically Ambala, Panchkula, and Yamunanagarare also threatened by potential flash floods. The IMD has also projected heavy rainfall in Konkan, Goa, Madhya Maharashtra, the Gujarat region, and Coastal Karnataka during the first week of September. Furthermore, a fresh low-pressure area is expected to form over the Northwest Bay of Bengal, off the coast of Odisha, and will move across Odisha, Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh, and Gujarat over the next 3-4 days. This will likely lead to increased monsoon rainfall in Odisha from September 2 to 4, in Chhattisgarh and Madhya Pradesh from September 3 to 5, and in Gujarat and parts of North Maharashtra from September 4 to 7. Due to these dangerous predictions, the IMD has advised fisherfolk to avoid venturing into the Arabian Sea from September 1 to 6. Lake burst behind Uttarakhand flash flood, MHA told In the past 24 hours, many areas of Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Punjab, West Rajasthan, and Telangana recorded extremely heavy rainfall, exceeding 210 mm. Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, and East Rajasthan received between 120-200 mm of rain. The heavy rainfall has led to widespread flooding in Punjab, resulting in losses to kharif crops. The Union Minister of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare has held a review meeting with senior officials to assess the damage caused by the heavy rainfall and discuss compensation measures. Earlier, the IMD's monthly outlook indicated that the country is expected to receive normal to above-normal rainfall in September, with a delayed withdrawal of the monsoon. Typically, the monsoon begins to withdraw in the first week of September and is expected to be fully withdrawn by September 30. The IMD has noted a new trend in September, characterized by more rainfall and a later withdrawal. So far, the country has experienced 6% more rainfall than normal, while the East and Northeast regions have faced approximately 18% below-normal rainfall. In contrast, the Northwest region has been the wettest, with about 27% above-normal rainfall recorded in the first three months of the monsoon. Flash flood strands 189 tourists in Uttarakhand's Valley of Flowers

Himachal Pradesh declared disaster-affected state by CM Sukhu

CHANDIGARH: Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu on Monday announced that Himachal Pradesh has been declared a disaster-affected state, following rain-related damages exceeding Rs 3,056 crore across all the districts. He said a formal notification has been issued, citing the scale of destruction due to cloudbursts, flash floods, and landslides, which have severely impacted roads, bridges, power lines, and water supply schemes. Blaming the climate change for the disaster, he added that the Disaster Management Act has been invoked in response to the situation, and the entire state has been declared a disaster-affected area starting today. Talking to the media, Sukhu said that he has requested all the MPs from the state to urge the central government for special package. He added that the BJP should not do politics on this. Today the state is witnessing the consequences of climate change. We will ascertain the losses after the monsoons end, he added. Himachal records highest rainfall for August in 15 years; overnight landslides kill three While speaking in the state assembly, Sukhu said that the state has been carrying out relief and rescue operations on a war footing. So far 16 pilgrims have died in the Manimahesh Yatra and bodies of four of them are still stuck in Kugti village in Bharmour as it is not possible to take them out as incessant rains are still continuing. The Chamba district administration has arranged 20 porters to carry the corpse out but the rain is still continuing, Sukhu said. He said, Out of the 15,000 pilgrims stranded in Manimahesh, 10,000 have been safely evacuated and sent home through Himachal Road Transport Corporation (HRTC) buses without any charges. The government has deployed 40 NDRF and 40 SDRF personnel, along with local mountaineering teams from Manali, to assist in rescue operations and Revenue Minister Jagat Singh Negi is continuously camping in Bharmour and has even trekked on foot to the worst-hit areas, setting new records of ground-level work, he said. He also advised people who are coming to the state not to venture near rivers and nallas.

Himachal records highest rainfall for August in 15 years; overnight landslides kill three

CHANDIGARH: Himachal Pradesh witnessed over 440 mm of rainfall in August, a staggering 72% above the normal of 256.8 mm, the highest recorded in the past fifteen years. The previous highest August rainfall was 322.5 mm in 2019, but this year saw an excess of 120 mm compared to that. Widespread heavy rain has caused landslides across the hill state, killing three people overnight, while the water level at Pong Dam has crossed its maximum capacity. A red alert has been issued in four districts, and an orange warning is in place for the rest of the state. The state has recorded excess rainfall ranging from 26% to 162% across different regions. Lahaul and Spiti saw 26% more rain, Kangra 29%, Chamba 104%, Solan 118%, Una 121%, Shimla 126%, and Kullu the highest at 162%. Last week alone, Himachal received 165.6 mm of rainfall against the normal 42.4 mm, a deviation of 291%. So far this monsoon, the state has recorded 826.8 mm of rainfall compared to the normal 613.8 mm, amounting to a 35% surplus. The seasonal normal for the entire monsoon period is 734.4 mm. 10 pilgrims dead, eight missing, 6,000 devotees evacuated amid Manimahesh Yatra disaster Landslides triggered by heavy rains led to three deaths in Shimla district. In one incident, 35-year-old Virender Kumar and his 10-year-old daughter were killed after their house was struck by a landslide in Mohal Jot village, Junga tehsil. His wife survived as she was outside at the time. Several cattle were also killed. In another incident, an elderly woman, Kalavati, was buried under debris after a landslide hit her house in Chol village, Kotkhai area. In Rohru subdivision, four families were evacuated after a landslide threatened three homes and buried two cowsheds, trapping livestock. The Manimahesh Yatra, which has claimed 16 lives this season, has been suspended due to the inclement weather. The traditional royal bath was cancelled, and rituals were instead conducted at 84 local temples. Road connectivity across the region has been severely disrupted. The KiratpurManali National Highway has been blocked at several locations between Mandi and Aut due to fresh landslides. Tourists, buses, and trucks are stranded on both sides. The MandiPathankot Highway is also closed near Lavandi Bridge between Mandi and Jogindernagar. The SansariKillarThirotTandi road in LahaulSpiti remains blocked due to rockfall at Nili Dhank. Three pilgrims die during Manimahesh Yatra; heavy rain forces closure of schools, roads in Himachal Authorities in Mandi and LahaulSpiti have issued advisories urging residents to avoid non-essential travel. Emergency services and police have been deployed to manage traffic and assist stranded commuters. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a red alert for Una, Sirmaur, Bilaspur, and Solan, forecasting heavy to very heavy rainfall over the next few hours. An orange alert has been issued for Shimla and surrounding areas. As of this morning, the water level at Pong Dam stood at 1,390.52 feet, slightly above its maximum capacity of 1,390 feet. The inflow was recorded at 79,790 cusecs, while the outflow was 1,09,920 cusecs. Of this, 17,079 cusecs passed through turbines and 92,841 cusecs through the spillway. Six machines remain operational at the powerhouse. 380 tourists evacuated from Sissu, Manimahesh Yatris stranded in Chamba as Himachal reels under heavy rains

Over 6.16 lakh ineligible beneficiaries found availing free ration in Madhya Pradesh

BHOPAL: Its not just the below poverty line (BPL) people who are taking free ration from the Public Distribution System (PDS) shops in Madhya Pradesh. Even well-to-do individuals are taking free ration by posing as members of BPL families across the central Indian state. The e-KYC (electronic know your customer) updating of beneficiaries under the National Food Security Act (NFSA)-Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Anna Yojana (PMGKAY) across the state has revealed that more than 6.16 lakh beneficiaries drawing free ration across the state, actually hail from well-to-do families. As per the ongoing e-KYC drive process earlier this month, a total of over 5.27 crore people were enrolled as beneficiaries under NFSA across the state, out of which more than 6.16 lakh have been identified as ineligible for free ration as they belong to well to do families. The top five districts with the highest number of ineligible beneficiaries are Bhind (50,619), Barwani (33,633), Khargone (29,909), Rewa (26,053), and Morena (25,230). Out of these five districts having the maximum number of ineligible beneficiaries drawing free ration from the PDS shops, Bhind and Morena are part of the Gwalior-Chambal region, the two neighbouring districts of Barwani and Khargone are part of the tribal dominated southwestern MP, while Rewa district is located in the Vindhya region, which neighbours Uttar Pradesh. Even the Madhya Pradesh capital, Bhopal, has 13,033 such beneficiaries. One village, Nalkheda, which is located in Berasia tehsil of the state capital, has 200-plus such people, whove received notices from the government, as to why their E-ration cards shouldnt be scrapped as they are ineligible for benefits under the scheme. One such family in Nalkheda village of Bhopal, actually owns a big house and not one, but two cars, but still figures in the list of those eligible for drawing free ration under the scheme focusing on free rice, wheat and sugar distribution for the impoverished lot. The government has already started the process of removing such ineligible beneficiaries from the list of those eligible for free ration under the NFSA, official sources said.

Delhi: Yamuna crosses danger level mark, flows above 205.33 metres

Yamuna river in Delhi breaches danger mark due to continuous rainfall. Evacuation preparations are underway. Himachal Pradesh faces widespread disruption from heavy rains. Road connectivity and public utilities are severely affected. The cumulative death toll since June 20 rises to 320. Restoration efforts are challenged by persistent rain and difficult terrain. Chamba, Mandi, and Kullu districts are the most impacted.