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Piety & penance behind Ambalappuzha palpayasam

ALAPPUZHA: The legend of the Ambalappuzha palpayasam is linked to the ruler of Chembakassery, says V J Sreekumar, koima sthani of the Ambalappuzha Sree Krishna Swamy temple. He ruled over eight karas, or regions, including Chambakulam, Nedumudi, Thakazhi, Thalavady, Ambalappuzha, and Alappuzha. The king set up kalaris across his domain which he visited on intervals. On one such visit to the kalari in Thalavady, the king played chess with a local Brahmin landlord. At the time, the king was facing a shortage of paddy seeds due to a grasshopper infestation. He asked the landlord for 5,000 para (an old unit of measure) of seeds, agreeing to return the same after harvest. The Brahmin agreed to comply with the request on the condition that the seeds would be returned with interest. The king directed his minister to ensure that the seeds are returned. But, the latter wilfully neglected the order. After a long while, the landlord travelled to Ambalappuzha to meet the king and seek the return of his seeds. That was when the king realised that he had been cheated by his minister. And, the quantity of seeds that needed to be returned with interest had reached 36,000 para by then. An angry king sent for his minister and ordered that arrangement be made for the return of the seeds. Immediately, the minister dispatched informers to local chieftains asking them to gather seeds from all karas in the realm. What was gathered was piled up in the temple auditorium. Kerala's Ambalappuzha palpayasam to cost more A disgraced minister ordered the Brahmin to take his share before the midday pooja, but directed labourers to offer no help to move the cargo. The helpless landlord offered the entire seeds to the temple. He also took three handfuls and offered them at the sanctum sanctorum. He also sought a pledge from temple authorities to serve palpayasam to the deity with his 36,000 para of paddy. The king then ordered that palpayasam be offered to the deity and devotees as penance without break. Articles of Faith The quantity of ingredients required to prepare 150 litres of payasam Water: 600 litres Rice: 12.65 litres (one litre is 750g) Sugar: 33.2 kg Milk: 150 litres Preparation process Half of the 600 litres of water used to prepare 150 litres of the payasam is drawn from the manikinar of the temple and the other half from the well near the payasapura. The boiling of water begins by 4 am when the sanctum sanctorum is opened. The water is heated and reduced to 300 litres by 7 am. Then 150 litres of milk and sugar is poured into the water. The mix is then heated and reduced to a third of the original quantity. The rice (onakkalri) is then poured into the milk by 11am and the payasam is ready by 11.30am

Salmanpara-ni gitcham MLA agilsakko watanga

AMPATI: Salmanpara constituency-ni gitcham MLA Samarendro S Sangma, Robibar salo, Nogorpara songo donggipa uni noko agilsakko watangaha. Bilsi 97 onge janggi tanganggipa Samarendro S Sangma, Garo Hills-o gitchambatsranggipa dilgiparangoni saksa onge, Meghalaya adokko manna skang aro manani jamanba adokna dingtang dingtang gadangrango dangdike onangaha. Ua, 1928 bilsini December 28 tariko, West Bengal adokni Cooch Behar-o [] The post Salmanpara-ni gitcham MLA agilsakko watanga appeared first on The Shillong Times .

Madhya Pradesh League: Saransh Helps Rewa Jaguars Defeat Chambal Ghariyals In Table Toppers Clash

Madhya Pradesh League T20: Rewa Jaguars produced an exceptional all-round comeback performance to defeat Chambal Ghariyals by 39 runs in a low-scoring thriller in Match 8 of the Madhya Pradesh League T20 2025, held at the Shrimant Madhavrao Scindia Stadium, Shankarpur on Monday. The match, featuring two unbeaten sides, was billed as a top-of-the-table clash and turned into a gripping contest dominated by the bowlers. Opting to bat first, Rewa Jaguars captain Himanshu Mantri saw his team in early trouble at 38/3. However, Kanishk Dubey (64 off 36 balls) and Sagar Solanki (36 off 26) rebuilt the innings with a crucial 69-run stand. Despite the recovery, Rewa stumbled again, losing wickets in quick succession and ending their innings at 158/9. For Chambal Ghariyals, Nayanraj Mewada and Aryan Pandey picked up two wickets each. In response, Chambal Ghariyals got off to a flying start, thanks to Apurve Dwivedi, who smashed a quickfire 45 off just 15 balls, taking his team to 63/1 in just 3.2 overs. At that stage, the chase looked well in control. However, once Apurve was dismissed, the game turned dramatically. Rewa Jaguars bowlers, led by Saransh Surana, triggered a collapse as Chambal Ghariyals lost seven wickets for just 33 runs, slipping from 63/1 to 96/8. Saransh was the standout performer with outstanding figures of 3/6 in 3 overs, while Shivam Shukla also chipped in with three crucial wickets. Chambal Ghariyals were eventually bowled out for 119 in 17.3 overs, as Rewa Jaguars sealed a 39-run win and moved to the top of the points table with three wins in as many matches. Saransh Surana was named Player of the Match for his match-winning spell with the ball. Speaking after the match, Rewa Jaguars captain Himanshu Mantri said: Low-scoring matches are always critical. They can go either way. But all of us believed that we had to pull this one off somehow, because these were conditions we hadnt faced yet in the tournament. We stayed firm, and though the powerplay didnt go as planned, we kept taking regular wickets and put in a great fielding effort. On the bowling strategy after Apurve's explosive start, he added: The only plan was to keep looking for wickets because this was a match that could only be won by taking them. Reflecting on his captaincy, Mantri said: Sometimes your instincts work, and I was just backing mine. But the support from the team, the energy and the catching were equally important. Looking ahead, he concluded: The goal is simple: to try and win every match we play. Reflecting on his captaincy, Mantri said: Sometimes your instincts work, and I was just backing mine. But the support from the team, the energy and the catching were equally important. Also Read: LIVE Cricket Score Article Source: IANS

Madhya Pradesh League: Aman Bhadoriyas All Round Show Helps Chambal Defeat Indore

Madhya Pradesh League T20: Aman Bhadoriya delivered a brilliant all-round performance as Chambal Ghariyals secured a commanding 43-run victory over Indore Pink Panthers, led by Venkatesh Iyer, in Match 6 of the Madhya Pradesh League T20 2025 at the Shrimant Madhavrao Scindia Stadium, Shankarpur, on Sunday. After being asked to bat first, Chambal Ghariyals posted a challenging total of 207/6, built on a collective batting effort. Apurve Dwivedi gave them a flying start with a brisk 33 off 17 balls, followed by a composed 48 off 42 from captain Shubham Sharma. Later in the innings, Harpreet Singh chipped in with a well-paced 57 off 39, before Aman Bhadoriya provided the finishing touches with a powerful 35 off just 12 balls. For Indore, Kulwant Khejroliya and Parush Mandal took two wickets each but couldnt prevent the flow of runs in the latter stages. In the run chase, Indore Pink Panthers lost early wickets, with Arpit Gaud falling cheaply to Aman Bhadoriya, who carried his momentum into the bowling department. Rahul Chandrol also departed early, increasing the pressure. Akshat Raghuwanshi, who has been in good touch this season, attempted to steady the innings with some aggressive stroke play and luck on his side, scoring 48 off 31 balls. However, he was cleaned up by a sharp delivery from Nayanraj Mewada, derailing Indores hopes. With the required run rate climbing, the onus was on captain Venkatesh Iyer to anchor the chase, but he managed just 10 runs before being dismissed by Raj Dabi, who picked up two wickets in the match. Late efforts from Vikrant Bhadoriya (22 off 13) and Ankur Singh Chauhan (32 off 17) showed intent, but Indore eventually fell short, finishing on 164/8, handing Chambal Ghariyals their second consecutive win of the tournament. Aman Bhadoriya, who was named Player of the Match, contributed with both bat and ball, also picking up two crucial wickets. Speaking after the match, Aman said: 200 wasnt really on our mind. Harpreet Singh told me to just play my shots and keep watching the ball closely, so I just followed that and the shots kept coming. While bowling, the plan was simple - dont give away easy boundary balls. Make them work hard for every run, and I just stuck to that. Aman Bhadoriya, who was named Player of the Match, contributed with both bat and ball, also picking up two crucial wickets. Also Read: LIVE Cricket Score Article Source: IANS

Sushant Singh Rajput Carried A Telescope To Chambal, Showed Co-Stars The Moon

Sushant Singh Rajputs co-stars recalled his love for astronomycarrying a telescope to sets, showing them stars, and sharing celestial conversations.

A lovers path near Chambakkara bridge, where Kochi slows down

Tucked near the flyover at Chambakkara, where most just pass by without a second glance, lies a canal-side path that doesnt call for attention. Its just there. Quiet, long, and oddly calming. A 2.5 km stretch that has slowly become a resting space for a city always on the move. Theres no signboard pointing you here. No caf promising iced coffee. No hashtags on nearby walls. And yet, from early morning to late evening, the walkway breathes. With footsteps, silences, and stories. Its not something you plan to visit, says Nimma, who sells flowers near the bridge. People just find it when they need to slow down. The path itself isnt dramatic. It runs close to the water, with low railings, scattered benches, and stretches where shade comes from trees leaning overhead. In the mornings, youll spot a few joggers, old men with newspapers folded under their arms, and the occasional cyclist who seems to be in no real hurry. Boats pass too. Quiet, unbothered, and sometimes, with cargo. Later in the day, college students stop to sit sipping juice, food delivery riders rest their backs and scroll through their phones, and older women walk together in small, steady steps, discussing daily life. Its our break spot, says a Swiggy partner, helmet off, legs stretched out. No one honks here. Thats enough. Theres an open gym halfway down. No building, no signboard, just metal bars and equipment. On most mornings, someones using it. Often, no more than one or two people. But no one seems in a rush. Its not a big thing, says Santhosh, a retired schoolteacher who comes daily. But in a city like this, even 15 minutes of peace feels like a blessing. The trees overhead arent spectacular, but they shade in the right places. If youre walking without your phone, youll hear birds. And sometimes, nothing at all. Every stretch like this has a familiar face. Here, its Babu, a fisherman in his sixties who casts a line into the canal most days and sells lottery tickets on the side. One foot rests on the edge of the path, the other on memory. Fishing is just for the peace, he says, not particularly trying to sell anything. Some days I catch fish. Some days I dont. But the water listens. Most who pass by recognise him now. Some buy a ticket, some just nod. Theres a spot in the middle of the path thats quietly gained a name: Lovers Path. Its not marked, but locals know it. Two flowering trees arch over the walkway, and in April and May, their pink petals carpet the ground. You walk under with someone you love, and the flowers bloom for you, Nimma says, half-smiling. At least, thats what people believe. Its not hard to see why the spot has its reputation. Even those walking alone slow down here. The pink petals fall without hurry, and for a few metres, the walkway feels like a story. Theres no tourism plan here. No photoshoots. No plans to turn it into anything else not yet, at least. And thats maybe what makes it matter. You see a student recording a voice note. A child learning to ride a cycle. A woman just sitting, staring at nothing in particular. Kochi has many loud places. This one is for the quieter things. Some cities build landmarks. Others make space for small pauses. Sometimes, thats all you need a bench, some water, and no reason to hurry.

MP exam fraud: Kingpin Amitabh Rawat's inter-state racket exposed

BHOPAL: One of the prime kingpins of the recently busted Madhya Pradesh Police Constable Recruitment Exam 2023 Aadhaar-manipulated multiple impersonation racket wasnt new to the world of government recruitment examination frauds. Carrying a Rs 10,000 bounty on his arrest announced by northern MPs Sheopur district police, government school teacher-turned-alleged exam fraudster Amitabh Rawat has been accused in the past as well in cases about examination frauds, not just in his home state of Madhya Pradesh, but also in neighbouring Uttar Pradesh. Rawat, whose wife is an elected village sarpanch in the native Morena district of MPs Gwalior-Chambal region, was last arrested in February 2024 from Jhansi by the UP STF and Jhansi Police in connection with the alleged leak of the UP Police Constable Recruitment Exam 2024. But it wasnt the first time that Rawat was arrested by any state police in connection with an alleged examination-related fraud case. Back in 2017, he was arrested in his native MP in connection with the multi-layered Vyapam scam case for arranging proxy candidates or solvers to take government recruitment exams in place of actual beneficiaries. After being lodged in a jail in Gwalior district until 2020, he was granted bail by the MP High Court. According to sources investigating the recently busted MP Police Constable Recruitment Aadhaar-manipulated impersonation racket, Rawat is believed to have been involved in frauds across several recruitment examinations in Madhya Pradesh using various cheating methods, including proxy candidates, bypassing biometric tests, paper leaks and screen sharing (in online exams), the official said. According to sources part of the ongoing probe, the 48-year-old Rawat allegedly headed one of three inter-state rackets that were engaged in the fraud in the 2023 MP Police Recruitment Exams written test. The other two rackets were headed by Morena district-based Shyam Rawat and Ashok Gurjar. Just like Amitabh Rawat, his caste man Shyam Rawat is also absconding and carries a similar Rs 10,000 reward on his arrest. All three rackets arranged solvers (proxy candidates) from Bihar and MP to take the written exam, which was held in 2023 on different dates across MP, in place of the actual candidates. This was done by replacing the picture and biometric (fingerprint) data in the actual candidates Aadhaar ID with the picture and fingerprints of the solver just before the written exam. The three rackets had links with dedicated Aadhaar ID manipulation operatives, who used login IDs and passwords of Aadhaar centres in MP, Delhi and UP, and controlled them remotely using desktop applications like AnyDesk. Two of the masterminds who worked with multiple Aadhaar centres in MP and outside included Surendra Kushwah who worked as the Aadhaar ID facilitator for the Amitabh Rawat-led racket and Kanhaiya Dhakad, who performed the same role for Shyam Rawats racket. While Surendra Kushwah (who has already been arrested) used login IDs and passwords of registered and authorised Aadhaar ID centres in Chhatarpur, Narsinghpur and other districts of MP, as well as Delhi, Kanhaiya Dhakad, who worked with Shyam Rawats racket, used the login credentials of Aadhaar centres particularly in the Gwalior-Chambal region of MP, especially Shivpuri district. Dhakad, who hails from MPs Shivpuri district, along with his family members, operated an Aadhaar registration and updating kiosk in Shivpuri between 2011 and 2023, and knew every nut and bolt related to Aadhaar IDs. After 2023, he began using login IDs and passwords of other registered Aadhaar registration centres in MP to assist the recruitment exam impersonation rackets, particularly the one headed by Amitabh Rawat. Dhakad, like the racketeer Amitabh Rawat, carried a reward of Rs 10,000 on arrest. He was arrested on Monday, making him the 12th man to be arrested in three cases of the MP Police Constable 2023 Recruitment Exam fraud. Were hopeful that his questioning in the coming days will lead to big disclosures, Sheopur district police superintendent Virendra Jain told TNIE on Tuesday. As per sources connected with the ongoing investigations, Amitabh Rawats racket, by working with Dhakad and aides, might have managed to get more than 50 candidates to pass the 2023 MP Police Constable Recruitment written exam and qualify for the physical proficiency test (PPT) conducted in 2024. In return, Rawat charged sums ranging from Rs 10-15 lakh from each candidate. The solvers who appeared in the written exam in place of actual candidates received Rs 1 to Rs 4 lakh per selected candidate, while Aadhaar manipulators like Dhakad received between Rs 10,000 to Rs 25,000 per candidate. So far, more than 20 cases have been registered in around ten districts of MP in connection with the Constable Recruitment Exam fraud, and over 25 individuals including actual beneficiary candidates, solvers, and Aadhaar centre operators have been arrested.

SC grants interim protection to journalists alleging assault by MP Police

SC grants interim protection to journalists alleging assault by MP Police New Delhi: The Supreme Court on Monday granted interim protection from arrest to two journalists from Madhya Pradesh who were allegedly assaulted and abused at the instance of Bhinds Superintendent of Police over their reporting on illegal sand mining in the Chambal river. However, [] The post SC grants interim protection to journalists alleging assault by MP Police appeared first on Mangalorean.com .

How Aadhaar fudging aided Madhya Pradesh cop recruitment scam

BHOPAL: Paliganj town 50 km from the Bihar capital is in news nearly a thousand km away in Madhya Pradesh, thanks to one of its government school teachers, who has emerged as the key solver of an inter-state Aadhaar ID manipulation-enabled examination racket, which helped candidates from the Gwalior-Chambal region crack the 2023 MP Police Constable Recruitment Exam. Ranjan Kumar Gupta, a school teacher from Paliganj appeared in place of ten candidates, including one of the merit holders of the exam who secured 87 out of 100 marks. Besides Gupta, who is now in police custody in MPs Sheopur district, at least five more solvers from the same eastern state also appeared through the same modus operandi for dozens of other candidates in MP, in return for Rs 1 lakh to Rs 4 lakh subject to passing of the candidate. Another solver from Bihars Gaya district, Amrendra Singh Bahubali appeared for eight candidates, for Rs 1 lakh each. He is now in police custody in Alirajpur district, following the arrest of Ramrup Gurjar, the candidate from MPs Gwalior-Chambal region who managed to clear the written test by making Amrendra appear in his place and subsequently cracked the 2024 physical proficiency test on his own, to finally be selected for the constables job. The solvers from Bihar travelled between Patna and MP by air on tickets booked by the examinations main rackets mastermind Amitabh Rawat and aides in Gwalior-Chambal region. They were comforted in big hotels and travelled to examination centres across MP in snazzy cars. The racket mastermind and aides also took special care of the fun and frolic demanded by the solvers from Bihar during their stay in MP , a police officer forming a key part of the ongoing probe told this newspaper. Eyeing to earn big (around `40 lakh after appearing for ten candidates) Ranjan now feels cheated by the mastermind of the racket Morena district-based Amitabh Rawat who is also a school teacher, and a village sarpanchs husband. Carrying a Rs 10,000 reward on his arrest, Rawat, who is now on the run, made Ranjan appear for ten candidates, but paid him just Rs 4 lakh. Ranjan, however, is confident that he wouldnt have failed in getting less than 6-7 candidates pass the 2023 written test to qualify for the 2024 physical proficiency test. The candidates for whom he appeared, included at least three close relatives of the rackets mastermind Amitabh Rawat. Just like us, Ranjan too is keenly awaiting Rawats arrest, but for different reasons, the police officer confided. While Rawat , who is a Meena caste strongman in Morena, ran the biggest racket, smaller rackets run by some other caste strongmen (including Thakurs and Gurjars) were also active in other districts of the same northern MP region.

SC to hear MP journalists plea over police assault for reporting on illegal sand mining

New Delhi: The Supreme Court is slated to hear on Monday, June 9, a plea filed by two Madhya Pradesh (MP) journalists who were allegedly assaulted and abused at the instance of Bhinds Superintendent of Police over their reporting on illegal sand mining in the Chambal river. As per the causelist published on the website Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .

Rahul Gandhis 'lame horses' remark 'insensitive', 'legally objectionable', says champion para swimmer

BHOPAL: Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi has drawn flak for his lame horses remark made at the Madhya Pradesh Congress convention in Bhopal on Tuesday. In a post on social media platform X on Thursday, international para swimmer and Padma Shri awardee Satendra Singh Lohiya voiced his strong objection to the remark by Gandhi, saying it was not only 'insensitive' but also 'legally objectionable'. Hinting at minimising the role of inactive and jaded leaders and promoting active and committed ones in the state, Gandhi had said, We must identify and segregate race horses, wedding horses and lame horses. The race horses will be promoted, the wedding horses will be set aside for 'weddings', while the time has come for the lame horses to retire. In response, Lohiya wrote, Im an international level para swimmer and a Divyang (specially-abled) and also a responsible citizen of the country. In a recent public statement in Bhopal, he (Gandhi) used the word langda, which hurt me a lot. The word is not only insensitive, but according to the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act 2016, this terminology has been abolished and is legally considered objectionable. This Act was passed by the Parliament with the purpose of giving Divyangjan a place of respect and dignity in the society. We were given a positive word like Divyang by the PM Narendra Modi, which reflects our capabilities, not our challenges. In such a situation when the country hears such an insensitive word from a national leader, it hurts the sentiments of not just one person, but the entire Divyang community, Lohiya posted. I dont know in which context he (Gandhi) used the word, but I request him to clarify on this matter and avoid using such language in future, keeping in mind the sentiments of specially-abled people. He is requested to take this matter seriously and give an appropriate response, respecting the sentiments of Divyang people of the country, he added in the post. 'Lame horses need to retire': Rahul Gandhi launches campaign to revive Congress in BJP-ruled MP Later in the day, Lohiya also confirmed that he was requested by some of his contacts (local Congress leaders) to remove the post, but said he wont do it till Rahul Gandhi issues a clarification about the remark. Im not a politician, Im an international para swimmer, who has dedicated two decades of life to swimming and the cause of the Divyang people. Not just Rahul Gandhi, I too have taken out a yatra for the cause of Divyangs from Kanyakumari to Kashmir. I cant take any insults against Divyangs, Lohiya told journalists on Thursday. The Indore-based Lohiya, who hails from Bhind district of Gwalior-Chambal region, became the first para swimmer in 2018 to successfully cross the English Channel. Having participated in seven national and three international para swimming meets, Lohiya has won 20 medals, including five golds. He was honoured with the prestigious Tenzing Norgay National Adventure Award in 2020 and four years later awarded the Padmashri. Lohiyas social media post expressing displeasure with the Rae Bareli MPs remark came a day after the Divyang Adhikar Mahasangh, a Jaipur-based advocacy group, formally registered a protest over Gandhis remark and wrote to the chief commissioner for persons with disabilities, government of India and the chief election commissioner. In a related development, Union minister Jyotiraditya Scindia, during a visit to his home city Gwalior on Thursday, slammed Gandhi for using a term allegedly demeaning to people with disabilities (PwDs) and reminded him of how Prime Minister Narendra Modi had coined the word 'divyangjan' for them.

Meet man, whose grandfather was dacoit in Chambal, studied at IIT, left high paying job, cracked UPSC, he is..., secured AIR...

A grandson of a dacoit in Madhya Pradesh's Chambal, became an officer, this is an inspiring story of Dev Tomar, a resident of Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh. Dev Tomar changed his family reputation entirely, by cracking UPSC Civil Service Exam (CSE) 2024.

In Rajasthan's Chambal, wives of ex-dacoits lead revival of water sources and hope

In Rajasthan's Karauli, women, facing drought-driven despair and men turning to dacoity, spearheaded a water conservation movement. Partnering with Tarun Bharat Sangh, they revived ponds and built new water bodies, transforming the parched landscape. This community-led effort brought stability, increased agricultural yields, and reduced crime, showcasing the power of collective action in combating climate change impacts.

Selsella Block-o kam kagiparangna quarter-rangko onchina NGO-rang dabia

TURA: Selsella C&RD Block-o kam kaenggiparangna dongchakani quarter-rangko onchina gita didie, Selsella jolo donggipa dingtang dingtang dolrang, chongmotan GSU, FKJGP, ADE, ASWA, NGCO, ANYO, GSMC aro ACHIK dolrangni nangrime bikotgipa All Selsella NGOs Alliance (ASNA), C&RD department-ni Director-na sedoataha. ASNA-ni parakatani gitade, ia Selsella Block-ara adoko gitchambatsranggipa block-rangoni damsa ongengoba daonan ia Block-o kam kagiparangna [] The post Selsella Block-o kam kagiparangna quarter-rangko onchina NGO-rang dabia appeared first on The Shillong Times .

Madhya Pradesh: Two first-time village sarpanches removed for handing over rights, powers to repay loans

BHOPAL: Two first-time women village sarpanches both tribals have been removed from their posts in Guna district of Madhya Pradesh, after it was found that they had handed over their rights and powers as sarpanch to others, including a loaner -- as repayment for loans taken from private lenders to contest the panchayat elections in 2022. The first matter pertained to Karond panchayat (the post of sarpanch is reserved for woman), where the sarpanch Laxmi Bai Gond handed over her rights as sarpanch to one of panchayat members Ranveer Singh Kushwah in return for Kushwahs guarantee to repay a Rs 20 lakh loan taken by Laxmi Bai from private money lender Hemraj Singh Dhakad. The entire unholy and notarised agreement of handing over rights and powers as sarpanch to the panchayat member Ranveer Singh Kushwah, in return for the guarantee of Kushwah repaying the Rs 20 lakh loan to Hemraj Dhakad was formalised on a Rs 100 revenue stamp paper in 2022. Another similar matter pertained to Ramnagar village panchayat of Chachoura area of the same Guna district, where the tribal woman Munni Bai Sahariya contested the 2022 gram panchayat elections after borrowing money from the villages strongman Ramsevak Meena. After winning the election in 2022 and becoming sarpanch, she reportedly entered into an agreement with Meena and handed over rights and power of sarpanch to him. In return for getting the powers and rights of the sarpanch, Ramsevak Meena agreed to pay Munni Bai Rs one lakh annually. Confirming both the cases, the Guna district collector Kishor Kanyal said, We had received complaints about both those village panchayats, after which a probe was ordered. The probe led to documented facts, after which both the concerned women sarpanches have been removed from their posts. Action is also being initiated against the secretaries of the two village panchayats. Also, FIRs have been registered against those with whom the agreements were made. This will ensure that such incidents dont recur in our district in future. These two developments in Guna district of Gwalior-Chambal region, happened three months after a first-time woman sarpanch lost her post in Neemuch district for handing over her rights, duties and powers of sarpanch to a man of the same village. The action was initiated in February by the authorities in Neemuch district of western MP against Kailashi Devi Kachchawa, the first-time woman sarpanch of Daata village of Manasa area of western MPs Neemuch district for handing over her rights, powers and duties as sarpanch to a man from the same village Suresh Garasiya. The agreement between the village sarpanch Kailashi Bai and Suresh Garasiya happened on a Rs 500 stamp paper on January 24. The agreement was signed by both parties as well as two eyewitnesses.

GH-o opposition dolrang bilgriani gimin NPP-na maming rabiani dongja: Marcuise

SHILLONG: Garo Hills-o Opposition dolrang, chongmotan Congress, Trinamool Congress (TMC) aro Voice of the Peoples Party (VPP) dolrang bilakna mankujaengani gimin National Peoples Party (NPP)-na maming rabianirang dongja ine NPP-ni working president aro adokni Cabinet Minister Marcuise N Marak akangataha. Asongo Congress dolan gitchambatsranggipa party onga indiba daode Garo Hills-o bilgriaha. Uamangni bangbata dilgiparangan NPP-o [] The post GH-o opposition dolrang bilgriani gimin NPP-na maming rabiani dongja: Marcuise appeared first on The Shillong Times .

Earthquake of magnitude 3.3 jolts Himachal Pradesh's Chamba

Chamba, Himachal Pradesh experienced an earthquake on Monday morning. The National Center for Seismology (NCS) reported the earthquake had a magnitude of 3.3.

Athlete fights off crocodile attack, escapes with severe injuries in Agra

LUCKNOW: Defying the deadly jaws of death, an 18-year-old national-level athlete had a providential escape when he was attacked by a crocodile while bathing in the Chambal River in Agra. Athlete Karan Kumar, a resident of Agra, fought back bravely and broke free from the jaws of the animal, which tore off pieces of flesh from his hand and leg. Karan is currently recovering in a hospital in Agra, and his condition is stated to be stable. According to family sources, Karan had gone to bathe at Kainjra Ghat along the Chambal River around 9 am on 13 May. While taking a dip in the river, a crocodile suddenly attacked him from behind, biting his leg and causing severe pain and bleeding. As the crocodiles sharp teeth dug deep into his leg, a petrified Karan screamed for help. Those on the shore began shouting, but no one could muster the courage to approach the victim. The crocodile then bit his hand, tearing away a chunk of flesh. The family further shared that despite the pain, Karan turned towards the crocodile and began kicking and punching it with all his strength. He kept hitting the crocodile's mouth with his right hand for 23 minutes, following which the grip of the animal loosened slightly. This allowed Karan to pull his hand out of the crocodiles jaws and swim back to the riverbank quickly. Local villagers present at the ghat rushed him to a nearby medical shop for an injection, after which his father and brother brought him to Agra for treatment. Karan suffered injuries to his hand, leg, and head. The crocodile had bitten into his flesh, and he lost a considerable amount of blood during the attack, said father Dara Singh, adding that the doctors had said his condition was stable. According to the family, Karan is a national-level runner. In 2023, he won two gold medals in 400-metre races held at Eklavya Sports Stadium in Agra. Due to his recent injuries, doctors have advised him to rest before resuming practice. Karans father, Dara Singh, is a farmer. The family survives on farming. His elder brother, Kamlesh, is an Agniveer aspirant, and his younger brother, Arjun, is a student. According to forest authorities in Agra, there are 742 crocodiles in the Chambal River, which is 80 km from Agra. Some of these crocodiles are as long as 17 feet.

MP, Maharashtra sign MoU for implementing worlds largest ground recharge project

BHOPAL: Madhya Pradesh and Maharashtra on Saturday signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to jointly implement the Tapti Basin Mega Recharge Project, described by officials as the worlds largest groundwater recharge scheme. Chief Minister Mohan Yadav and his Maharashtra counterpart Devendra Fadnavis attended the 28th meeting of the Madhya Pradesh-Maharashtra Inter State Control Board here, where both the BJP-ruled state governments inked the MoU. The Tapti Basin Mega Recharge Project is the third major inter-state river project featuring MP in the last five months, after the Ken-Betwa Link Project, which features MP and UP, and Parbati-Kalisindh-Chambal Link project, which has participation of MP and Rajasthan. Through the Tapti Basin Mega Recharge Project, three streams of the Tapti river, which originates from Multai in MP, will be developed in collaboration with the Maharashtra government to ensure optimal use of every drop of river water for irrigation in across both the states. The interests of Madhya Pradeshs water needs have been carefully considered in this project. The total water usage in the Tapti Basin Mega Recharge Project will be 31.13 TMC , with 11.76 TMC allocated to MP and 19.36 TMC to Maharashtra. The project will utilise 3,362 hectares of land in Madhya Pradesh, with no displacement of villages and no need for rehabilitation. The project will provide permanent irrigation facilities to 1,23,082 hectares in Madhya Pradesh and 2,34,706 hectares in Maharashtra. Initially, a traditional reservoir project of 66 TMC capacity was proposed, which would have affected over 17,000 hectares of land, including forest areas and tiger reserves, and displaced around 14,000 people across 73 villages. The earlier model has now been replaced with a groundwater recharge-based approach, avoiding displacement and environmental impact. Today is a historic day as both states have agreed to implement the project conceptualised a long time back. Even the Inter-State Control Board meeting happened after 25 years, Fadnavis said. Both states will benefit from the implementation of the project, with Maharashtras three districts Budhana, Akola and Amravati, which have long been facing the problem of salty water, will be the major beneficiaries. This will help agriculture, drinking water and boost the overall economy of the two neighbouring states, he said. CM Yadav said, The implementation of the project will boost the entire economy of the Nimar (southwestern MP) region.

Heard On The Street: Dealers Spot Action In Paytm, Eternal, Chambal Fertilisers, Zaggle And More

This edition of Heard On The Street provides you with buzzing action on stocks like Paytm, Ethernal, Aditya Birla Fashion, Chambal Fertilisers, Shakti Pumps, Zaggle and Goldiam International.

Jammu-Srinagar National Highway Closed After Mudslide In J&Ks Ramban

JAMMU, May 8: The Jammu-Srinagar National Highway, the only road link connecting the Kashmir Valley with the rest of the country, was closed on Thursday morning due to a mudslide triggered by rainy weather. Officials said that vehicular traffic on the highway (NH-44) has been temporarily suspended following a mudslide at Chamba Seri in Ramban district. The road has been blocked in both directions after debris fell on the stretch, halting movement. Clearance operations are underway. Commuters are advised to [] The post Jammu-Srinagar National Highway Closed After Mudslide In J&Ks Ramban appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Hailstorm and thundershowers lash Himachal, mercury drops sharply

SHIMLA, May 4: Himachal Pradesh witnessed a sharp shift from the ongoing heatwave as widespread thundershowers, hailstorms, and strong winds lashed several parts of the state, disrupting normal life and bringing down temperatures significantly. According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), hailstorms and thundershowers affected districts like Shimla, Kangra, Chamba, and Kullu, reducing visibility and causing inconvenience to residents and tourists alike. The State Disaster Management Authority also issued an advisory as gusty winds touched speeds of 50 kmph in [] The post Hailstorm and thundershowers lash Himachal, mercury drops sharply appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Asia's most endangered turtle species returns to Ganga in landmark conservation effort

LUCKNOW: The 'batagur kachhua' (red-crowned roofed turtle), a freshwater species once considered one of Asias most endangered, is on the path to revival and is set to return to Uttar Pradesh. In a first-of-its-kind initiative, the Uttar Pradesh government, in coordination with the Namami Gange programme and in collaboration with the Indian Turtle Conservation Program (ITCP), has reintroduced the species into the river Gangamarking a major milestone in efforts to revive critically endangered aquatic life. As part of this initiative, 10 male and 10 female turtles, aged between two and three years, were released at two ecologically crucial sites: upstream in the Haiderpur Wetland and downstream in the Hastinapur Wildlife Sanctuary. According to Rajesh Kumar, Divisional Forest Officer (DFO) of the Meerut Range, the turtles were carefully selected based on health, sex, and morphometric characteristics. It has been a scientifically significant attemptthe first of its kind in India for this species, said Kumar, calling the move a landmark achievement. To monitor the animals, each turtle has been fitted with a sonic transmitter attached to its shell, enabling conservationists to track their movements and behaviour in real time. The data collected will help researchers understand the turtles behavioural patterns, adaptation to the new environment, and the challenges they may encounter. This will also help conservationists chart out the future course and make subsequent reintroductions more effective, said a senior official involved in the project. Once widespread across the Ganga and Brahmaputra river systems, the red-crowned roofed turtle now survives in the wild only in the Chambal River, where fewer than 300 individuals are believed to remain. The species is listed as Critically Endangered on the IUCN Red List and is also recognised among the Top 50 Most Endangered Tortoises and Freshwater Turtles in Asia. Officials confirmed that globally accepted translocation protocols were strictly followed. The turtles were released in the Ganga during the early hours of April 26, 2025. The conservation teams ensured the animals were well-hydrated, stress-free, and transported at night to avoid daytime heat exposure. Importantly, the reintroduction event was designed to be more than just a scientific operationit was also a celebration of community-led conservation. Local villagers, school students, and religious leaders (sadhus) gathered along the riverbank to witness the turtles return to the Ganga. Officials believe that this reintroduction efforthailed as a model for similar conservation projects across Indiawill not only support the revival of the red-crowned roofed turtle but also contribute vital data toward the conservation of other endangered freshwater species.

Heavy Rain Triggers Mudslides In J&Ks Ramban, Jammu-Srinagar NH Closed

Ramban/Jammu, May 2: The Jammu-Srinagar National Highway was closed after cloudburst-induced heavy rain triggered mudslides in Jammu and Kashmirs Ramban district on Friday, a traffic police officer said. The heavy rain triggered flash floods in the Chenab river, prompting the authorities in Reasi and Akhnoor sectors to issue warnings about avoiding the riverbank. Vehicular movement has stopped from both sides on the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway due to mudslides at Chamba Seri in Ramban following flash floods caused by a cloudburst, [] The post Heavy Rain Triggers Mudslides In J&Ks Ramban, Jammu-Srinagar NH Closed appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Rajasthan to join Indias first cheetah conservation corridor with Madhya Pradesh

JAIPUR: Rajasthan is all set to become a part of Indias first cheetah reintroduction project, currently operational in Madhya Pradesh. A wildlife corridor spanning 17,000 square kilometers will be developed across both states, allowing cheetahs to roam freely in a protected and connected habitat. The corridor will link Palpur Kuno National Park and Gandhi Sagar Sanctuary in Madhya Pradesh with the Mukundara Hills Tiger Reserve in Rajasthan. As part of the plan, seven districts in Rajasthan Kota, Bundi, Baran, Jhalawar, Sawai Madhopur, Karauli, and Chittorgarh will be integrated into the project. Speaking in Jaipur on Tuesday, Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav emphasised the success of the cheetah project, describing it as a unique initiative in Asia. It is a matter of pride that cheetahs are thriving here. This is among the most successful wildlife conservation efforts globally, he said. Yadav also stated that the project would now move forward in collaboration with Rajasthan. Highlighting past joint efforts, the MP Chief Minister recalled the Parvati-Kalisindh-Chambal river linking project, inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. We are confident that both states will progress together on this project under the leadership of the Prime Minister, he added. According to the action plan released by the National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA), the Wildlife Institute of India (WII) has designated the Kuno-Gandhi Sagar landscape as a suitable cheetah habitat. Of the total corridor area, 10,500 square kilometers fall within Madhya Pradesh, while 6,500 square kilometers are in Rajasthan. The corridor will enable cheetahs to move from Kuno National Park through the Mukundara Hills Reserve in Rajasthan to Gandhi Sagar. Discussions are also underway to include parts of Uttar Pradesh, specifically the forest areas of Jhansi and Lalitpur, within the extended landscape. An official Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan is in the pipeline. The proposal has reached the Chief Ministers of both states and is awaiting final approval. During his visit to Jaipur, CM Mohan Yadav met with Rajasthan Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma. Sources suggest that discussions on the cheetah corridor were held, and the signing of the MoU is expected soon.

20 injured after pick-up truck overturns in Himachal's Chamba

SHIMLA: At least 20 people sustained injuries on Tuesday after a pick-up truck they were travelling in overturned on the Chamba-Langera link road in Chamba district, police said. The accident took place near Shirvas village when the driver of the pick-up truck lost control of the vehicle, they said. Police rescued the injured persons with the help of the locals and shifted them to the civil hospital in Killar, from where some with serious injuries were referred to the Pt Jawaharlal Nehru Government Medical College in Chamba, officials said.

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

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

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

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

Thunderstorm, hailstorm batter parts of Himachal Pradesh causing widespread damage

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

LG visits families of JKP personnel martyred in Kathua

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

Last rites of 4 police martyrs performed with full State honours

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

Four Slain Cops In Kathua Encounter Given Tearful Adieu As Officers Vowed To Root Out Terrorism From J&K

Jammu, Mar 29: The last rites of four police personnel, martyred in an encounter with terrorists in Jammu and Kashmirs Kathua district, were performed with full honours at their native places with participating officers vowing to eliminate terrorism from the region. Head constable Jagbir Singh of Mattu-Khour in Jammus Akhnoor and selection grade constables Tariq Ahmad of Chamba-Panthal in Reasi, Balwinder Singh Chib of Kana Chak, and Jaswant Singh of Londi Morh in Kathua were martyred in the two-day [] The post Four Slain Cops In Kathua Encounter Given Tearful Adieu As Officers Vowed To Root Out Terrorism From J&K appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Analysts have buy calls on these stocks this Monday.

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

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

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

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

First ever survey finds 6324 riverine dolphins in country

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

Chambal Dacoit Kusuma Nain Dies: UP Police, Villagers Recount Her Brutal 25-Year Reign Of Terror

Kusuma Nain had gunned down 12 people and gouged out the eyes of two victims in Asta village in UPs Auraiya in 1984

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

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

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

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

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

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

Jammu-Srinagar National Highway Still Closed

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Heavy snowfall disrupts roads, power supply in Himachal Pradesh

CHANDIGARH: Himachal Pradesh has been severely impacted by heavy snowfall and widespread rainfall, leading to the closure of more than 200 roads and disruptions in power and water supply. Several areas, particularly in the districts of Lahaul and Spiti, Kullu, Kinnaur, and Chamba, have been cut off from the rest of the state. The weather conditions have also forced the closure of educational institutions in Lahaul and Spiti and Chamba districts. Due to heavy snowfall, several key routes, including Darcha-Shinkula, Darcha-Sarchu, Koksar-Manali via Rohtang, Koksar to Losar via Kunzum, and Atal Tunnel to Manali, Tindi, and Udaipur roads, have been blocked. Authorities have advised travelers to avoid these routes for safety reasons. An avalanche alert has been issued, and the general public is urged to refrain from visiting high-altitude areas prone to avalanches. The police in Lahaul and Spiti stated, The general public is advised to avoid unnecessary travel and refrain from visiting high-altitude areas prone to avalanches. In the Dodra-Kwar region of Shimla district, heavy snowfall continues, shutting down all roads leading to the valley. The Meteorological Department has issued an orange warning for Lahaul and Spiti, Chamba, Kinnaur, and areas above 2,300 meters, warning of an increased risk of avalanches in higher-altitude regions. The precipitation is expected to continue with the same intensity throughout the day. Meanwhile, panic spread among residents of Manikaran Valley in the Kullu district following the formation of an artificial lake in Jeera Nallah in Tosh village, which has created a flash flood threat. Authorities have evacuated people living downstream to safer locations. The state also remains on high alert for avalanches following fresh snowfall in the region. In Shimla district, 12 roads have been closed due to the harsh weather. The Hindustan-Tibet Road (National Highway 5) has been shut down near Narkanda due to slippery conditions caused by heavy snowfall. As a result, traffic has been diverted from Sainj to Shimla via Luhri and Sunni. The Meteorological Department has issued an orange alert for light to moderate snowfall at most places, with isolated spells of very heavy snowfall expected in Kinnaur and Lahaul and Spiti, as well as in the higher reaches of Chamba, Shimla, Mandi, Sirmaur, Kangra, and Manali. Since last night, continuous rainfall has been recorded in Shimla. A yellow alert has been issued for more rain and light snowfall in the city and surrounding areas. However, educational institutions in the state capital have remained open. Tabo in Lahaul and Spiti recorded the lowest temperature at night, dropping to minus 4.5 degrees Celsius, while Nahan was the warmest during the day with a high of 23.2 degrees Celsius.

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

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

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HC orders probe into tribal land deal in Gwalior-Chambal

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

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

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

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

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

IIT study: 40% of Himachal at high risk of landslides, floods & avalanches

CHANDIGARH: Forty-nine per cent of Himachal Pradesh is prone to medium-risk and 40% to high-risk landslides, floods and avalanches, according to a recent study by the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT)-Ropar. The conclusions were presented at the Indian Cryosphere Meet (ICM) held at the IIT-Bombay last week, attended by 80 glaciologists, researchers, scientists, and other experts from around the world. The IIT is now conducting similar studies in the Northeast, J&K and Uttarakhand, adding another criterion to examine GOLF (Glacier Lake Out Burst Flood). MTech scholar Daishisha Lawphniaw conducted the study under the guidance of Reet Kamal Tiwari from IIT-Ropar, using GIS-based mapping, the study classified hazard-prone regions. Tiwari told this newspaper, The states upper reaches are more prone to avalanches, whereas the middle and lower parts of the state are more prone to flood and landslides. The study stated that high-altitude areas in Kinnaur and Lahaul Spiti districts are highly prone to avalanches, while Kangra, Kullu, Mandi, Una, Hamirpur, Bilaspur and Chamba districts are prone to flood and landslides. The study highlights that steep mountain slopes and elevations above 3,000 meters are at the highest risk. Higher-altitude regions with slopes between 16.8 degrees and 41.5 degrees are more likely to experience both avalanches and landslides. Areas with mean slopes ranging from 5.9 degrees to 16.44 degrees and mean elevations up to 1600 meters are predominantly prone to both landslides and floods, whereas the combined occurrence of avalanches and landslides is most likely in regions with slopes of 16.86 degrees to 41.54 degrees at higher elevations, states the study. The study highlights importance of knowledge about the cascading effects of disasters. Hill tale 49% prone to medium-risk High-altitude areas in Kinnaur and Lahaul-Spiti highly prone to avalanches Kangra, Kullu, Mandi, Una, Hamirpur, Bilaspur and Chamba prone to flood and landslides Steep mountain slopes and elevations above 3,000 metres at highest risk Higher-altitude regions with slopes between 16.8 degrees and 41.5 degrees more likely to experience both avalanches and landslides Areas with mean slopes and elevations predominantly prone to both landslides and floods