Foul stench from dead fish in Naini Lake threatens Nainitals tourism jewel
DEHRADUN: The picturesque Naini Lake, the very heart of Nainital's burgeoning tourism industry, is currently grappling with a disturbing and pervasive problem: a strong, foul odour emanating from a significant number of dead and partially eaten fish. This unwelcome stench is threatening to mar the serene experience for visitors, raising urgent concerns for the hill station's critical tourism economy. Tourists visiting the popular destination have reported an unpleasant smell across various parts of the lake. The sight of decaying, half-eaten fish bodies floating in the water has prompted widespread speculation among locals and authorities alike. One prevalent theory attributes the deaths to the presence of the carnivorous 'Mangura' (catfish), which was reportedly sighted in the lake on June 27, and, according to sources, has not been removed since. Mangura are known for preying on other aquatic life, and their presence could explain the half-eaten carcasses. Another hypothesis suggests the natural lifespan of the lake's common Silver Carp and Grass Carp may have simply come to an end, leading to a wave of natural deaths. Tourists speaking to the TNIE voiced their dismay, Anurag Gupta from Meerut, visiting with friends Priyank and Dilip Singh, lamented, Amidst Nainital's beautiful visuals and natural beauty, this smell near the lake completely spoiled our fun. The administration must pay immediate attention, or tourists will be deterred from visiting. Malvika Bajpai, a teacher from Noida who visited with her family, echoed the sentiment. Everything else in Nainital was lovely, but the foul smell from the lake during our boat ride, especially with the gusts of wind, really ruined the mood, she told the TNIE. It's not the first time the lake has faced such an issue; in July 2010, 39 Mangura fish were swiftly removed by the then Lake Development Authority after certain individuals reportedly introduced them. Dozens of dead fish have reportedly been recovered from the lake in recent weeks. Nainital Municipal Executive Officer, Rohitash Sharma, stated that his team is continuously undertaking cleaning operations in the lake and has already removed numerous dead fish. If any more dead fish remain, we will remove them immediately, he assured. Vijay Nath Shukla, Secretary of the District Development Authority, confirmed that the Fisheries Department in Pantnagar, which houses experts in aquatic life, has been informed about the situation. Whatever the cause, these decaying, foul-smelling fish must be removed from the water as quickly as possible, Shukla emphasised. As Nainital relies heavily on its picturesque lake for its appeal, authorities face mounting pressure to swiftly address the problem and restore the lake's pristine condition, ensuring its continued allure as a premier tourist destination.
High Disposable Income & Demand of Quality Living to Drive Luxury Homes Growth
According to a joint report by CBRE-ASSOCHAM, India's luxury housing segment witnessed an 85% year-on-year (YoY) growth in the first half of 2025, with nearly 7,000 high-end residential units sold across the top seven cities. Leading the luxury surge, Delhi-NCR clocked sales of approximately 4,000 luxury units during January-June 2025, contributing 57% share to the total luxury segment. The region also recorded a threefold increase in sales compared to the same period last year, the report said. With rising disposable incomes, the appetite for premium homes has grown wider. NRIs are returning with global benchmarks, professionals are upgrading their lifestyle; there's a clear shift toward real estate that delivers both comfort and capital appreciation. For many, a luxury home is no longer a milestone purchase-it's a strategic one. Yukti Nagpal, Director, Gulshan Group , says, The concept of luxury has gone beyond mere possessions. With more disposable income and clearer expectations, buyers seek homes where they can experience comfort, convenience, and a certain ease in everyday living. In NCR, micro-markets like Noida-Greater Noida Expressway are seeing massive traction due to their superior infrastructure, proximity to business hubs, and access to prime facilities, aligning with what buyers look for. At Gulshan, we curate residences that are aspirational yet rooted in practicality; where every detail, from layout to location, enhances quality of life . Data from JLL showed, India's housing market is witnessing a decisive tilt toward premium homes, with properties priced above Rs 1 crore accounting for 62% of all residential sales during the first half of 2025. These homes are being snapped up not just in Delhi or Mumbai, but in tier 2 cities too. For this new class of affluent buyers, luxury housing is where aspiration meets asset-building. Saurabh Saharan, Group Managing Director, HCBS Developments , says, In Gurugram, Dwarka Expressway's rise as a premium residential zone is no accident. With its strategic location connecting Delhi and Gurugram, infrastructure upgrades, and proximity to IGI Airport, this stretch has become a magnet for luxury homebuyers. As developers, we've noticed an increasing shift towards smart, secure, and amenity-rich homes in this corridor. What's especially driving the market now is a new wave of millennial buyers with rising disposable incomes, who want more than just shelter. They're seeking larger homes, spacious layouts, and modern amenities that match their lifestyle. This shift is pushing the demand for premium, future-ready homes, and we believe Gururgam will sustain its real estate market where homes meet these aspirations . Dr. Vishesh Rawat, VP & Head of Marketing, Sales & CRM, M2K Group , says, In sectors like Sector 104 along the Dwarka Expressway, we're seeing a very distinct kind of luxury demand, which is quiet, thoughtful, and deeply lifestyle-driven. Affluent buyers here want homes that feel like a retreat but still stay connected to the city's pulse. But what's equally driving interest is the investment potential. With soaring property prices, strong sales momentum, and non-stop infrastructure development, this corridor is anticipated to deliver impressive ROI in the coming years. Hence, we foresee that luxury, for this segment, is about balance not excess . Vikas Dua, Founder and Director, Chintamanis Group , says, Gurugram continues to lead NCR's luxury housing evolution, driven by a clientele with high disposable income that values brand legacy, prime addresses, and architectural statement. Branded residences, especially along corridors like the Dwarka Expressway, are being viewed as generational assets. The demand here is as much emotional as it is financial, turning Gurugram's billionaire belt a proven destination for enduring value . Simultaneously, Tier-2 cities like Dehradun, Chandigarh, Jaipur, Indore, and Lucknow have become the new luxury hubs. As per MagicBricks, the average capital appreciation across Tier-II cities stands at 17.6%, outpacing the national capital's 11.10%. Driven by NRI investments, second-home aspirations, and retirement planning, luxury is now becoming a nationwide aspiration rooted in quality living and future-readiness. Harvinder Singh Sikka, Chairman, Sikka Group, says, The appetite for luxury homes in Tier 2 cities like Dehradun is unprecedented. With increased reverse migration, buyers are looking for elevated living without the chaos of metros. They demand panoramic views, green architecture, and modern amenities bundled into a lifestyle offering. Thus, the aspirational curve has shifted upward, and Tier 2 luxury now competes with metro-grade sophistication . Therefore, the future of luxury housing in India lies in its ability to evolve with the buyer. With disposable incomes rising and lifestyles becoming more global in taste, developers who focus on detail, design, and experience will be the ones leading the next chapter of India's luxury housing story.
Uttarakhand rains: Dehradun emergency advises districts to remain on high alert
In the central Indian state of Madhya Pradesh, the Jogitikariya bridge on the Dindori to Jabalpur route has been submerged due to heavy rain, causing the Narmada River to overflow
A crowd of people dressed in sparkling lehengas, sarees, and sherwanis walking into a richly decorated hall to the sound of a dhol band is an image quintessential to Indian weddings. What if we told you that you didnt have to get married or be invited to a wedding, to experience the excitement of it all sangeet, mehendi, and wedding chaat stalls included? That is exactly what fake wedding or fake sangeet events gaining popularity across the country among Gen Z, aims to do. Bengaluru too, has seen a few of these events with Big Fat Fake Wedding hosted at JW Marriott seeing around 2,000 people in attendance, priced at `4,000 for men. It was the hottest topic in town everyone went out their way to get a new fit made and go all out with dressing in traditional wear, says Tanishka Choudhary, 20, a fashion student attendee. The appeal of such events to participants, mainly in their 20s, is being able to celebrate the dhoom dhaam of weddings without the pressure or judgement of relatives. Choudhary says, Gen Z doesnt really believe in marriage so concepts like this are appealing because its a way to have fun and enjoy weddings without having to worry about marriage or judgement. The metropolitan nature of Bengaluru too, has contributed to the popularity of fake weddings, according to Kaushal Chanani, the co-founder of 8club, the organisers of the JW Marriott event. A lot of the attendees were from other parts of India these events are prominent in cities where a lot of people are not regularly going to family events or family functions, because people want to build their own community with this. Another fake wedding event that saw a full house is Shaadi Mubarak hosted by Vibhav Kumar Modis Dark Vibe Society and two others, which sought to bring the wedding experience to the queer community, giving participants an experience the law still denies. The idea came from thinking of what it would feel like for queer people who are not allowed to get married in India, to be a part of a marriage free from judgement, says Modi, adding that they did away with gender norms evident in weddings. We had wedding games like a contest between partners to find a ring in the milk and a tug of war game without a groom and brides side. We also had a sangeet led by drag performers. Fake wedding nights have gained virality on social media with youngsters making reels gaining millions of views. With the social media attention, some have criticised the concept saying that Gen Z is not giving traditions the respect they are due but Prathiban, the GM of Raahi Neo Kitchen and Bar, has a rebuttal, We are used to theme nights like a white night, red night, one night in Paris or Jamaica, etc. This is more like a sangeet-themed DJ night than a real wedding. We dont have rituals, just the decor, food and music is like a sangeet. This was priced at `2,000 for couples, redeemable against food and drinks. While Delhi has been the epicentre of fake weddings events in India with at least one happening each week, Bengaluru is just beginning to catch on, notes Chanani, explaining the difference. People in Delhi love to hop on the trend but Bengalurus behaviour is different in terms of event organisers. They dont want to look like they are copying someones concept. But we are in talks with a few organisers to bring it back to Bengaluru, he says, noting that theres been interest from tier two, three and four cities as well with a search on social media showing fake shaadis hosted in Kolhapur, Jaipur and Dehradun too. We are seeing a lot of traction from small cities like Bhopal, Rajkot, that want to bring this to their community. Weve gotten around 50-60 requests to collaborate in the weeks after the Bengaluru event went viral, adds Chanani.
Collapsing Iron Doors: The Life of Sex Workers in India
By Ria Jain, Dehradun We live in a world where mundanity is often overlooked every single day. But what about those who live with heartless bodies and no souls? Within narrow lanes around the world, there exist people who gave up on humanity long ago. They spend their days in the shadows, questioning their choices [] The post Collapsing Iron Doors: The Life of Sex Workers in India appeared first on Northlines .
Nainital's iconic lake walls crumble under rat onslaught, hill station's future at stake
DEHRADUN: Once hailed as a heavenly abode nestled in the Kumaon region of Uttrakhand, the picturesque hill station of Nainital is now grappling with an escalating crisis: a rampant rodent infestation threatening its very identity. Swarms of rats are not only wreaking havoc in shops and homes but are relentlessly gnawing at the foundations of the historic Naini Lake's retaining walls, raising alarms about the lake's structural integrity and the town's future. The unparalleled beauty of Naini Lake, the jewel in Nainital's crown, is now shadowed by this unwelcome plague. Centuries-old walls, vital for the lake's stability and aesthetic appeal, are progressively being hollowed out by a deceptive network of rat burrows. In numerous sections, these critical structures show visible cracks, signaling a potential catastrophe that could undermine the lake's existence. Areas from the Boat House Club and Pant Park to the Band Stand and Capital Cinema in the Mallital region, all adjacent to the lake, are particularly vulnerable, with their walls in a precarious state. The primary culprit behind the deteriorating condition of these historic walls is unequivocally identified as the rodent menace. These rats have dug many tunnels, making the strong structure weak and full of holes, like a honeycomb. Beyond the walls, their below ground network extends to the land surrounding the Band Stand, significantly escalating the risk of land subsidence a perilous prospect for a region already prone to geological instability. Tackling this rampant rat population has emerged as a formidable challenge for the local administration and concerned departments. Beyond the walls, their below ground network extends to the land surrounding the Band Stand, significantly escalating the risk of land subsidence. Narendra Singh Chauhan, Secretary of the Nainital Boat Owners' Committee, offered a surprising insight into the root cause of the infestation. The widespread sale of sweet corn (commonly known as 'bhutta') near Pant Park and along the lakeside has inadvertently become a primary breeding ground for these rodents, he stated. The abundant food waste left behind has led to an unprecedented explosion in their numbers. Chauhan further highlighted that the rat population has seen a dramatic surge specifically since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, suggesting a correlation with reduced human activity and changes in waste management during that period. Local trader Kamal Pandey echoed the growing concern, expressing alarm over the escalating rodent menace. Large rats can be openly seen roaming in Mallital's Pant Park and surrounding shops, he recounted with visible frustration. They are not only causing significant damage to merchandise but also pose a grave health risk due to the diseases they carry. Pandey pointed out that the Capital Cinema building and the lake's periphery are riddled with extensive rat burrows. The situation has deteriorated to such an extent, he added, that rats are now routinely spotted scurrying across pathways and along the lakefront even in broad daylight. Addressing the escalating crisis, Rohitash Sharma, Executive Officer of the Nainital Municipal Corporation, confirmed to TNIE that District Magistrate Vandana Singh has taken serious cognizance of the increasing rat population. Instructions have been issued to address this problem with urgency, Sharma stated.
Uttarakhand begins preparations for its latest tiger assessment
DEHRADUN: Uttarakhand, holding the impressive third position nationwide for its tiger population, has officially commenced preparations for its latest tiger assessment. This crucial exercise aims to provide an updated count of the majestic big cats in the state's diverse forests. A regional meeting was recently convened at the Wildlife Institute of India (WII) in Dehradun, bringing together directors from the prominent Rajaji and Corbett Tiger Reserves, alongside other northern region tiger reserve heads. The initial phase of the assessment, a comprehensive 'Science Survey,' is slated to begin this October. The state has witnessed a significant increase in its tiger numbers in recent years. The Status of Tigers, Co-predators & Prey in India 2022 report, released previously, indicated a robust population of 560 tigers in Uttarakhand. Preparations for the upcoming report are now well underway, with WII leading the scientific effort. Corbett Tiger Reserve Director, Dr. Saket Badola, who participated in the recent WII meeting, stated, During the workshop, detailed information regarding camera traps and other essential field methodologies was sought from the Forest Department. Training protocols for personnel involved in the census were also thoroughly discussed. Elaborating on the multi-stage process, Dr. Badola further informed the TNIE , Tiger assessment is a three-phase process. The first phase involves a 'Science Survey,' also known as ecology monitoring, which will begin in October. In this phase, forest personnel meticulously record information regarding the presence of wildlife and their habitats. This initial data is then submitted to WII for in-depth analysis, forming the critical second phase of the assessment, he explained. Finally, in the third phase, camera traps are strategically installed throughout the forest, based on a scientifically derived grid from the initial science survey. The photographs captured by these traps are then compiled and returned to WII, which conducts a comprehensive study before officially releasing the final report on the tiger population. It's noteworthy that Uttarakhand currently ranks third in India for its tiger population. Madhya Pradesh leads the nation with 785 tigers, followed closely by Karnataka with 563.
Survey for Dehradun-Saharanpur line on, no timeline fixed: Railway minister
A new railway line may connect Saharanpur and Dehradun. The proposed 81-km line will pass via Shakumbhari Devi. Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw shared the update. A detailed project report is under preparation. The project awaits consultations with state governments. Approvals from NITI Aayog and the Finance Ministry are pending. Project viability depends on traffic, connectivity, and fund availability.
No dhoti, no entry: Bhadraj temple in Uttarakhand enforces strict dress code
DEHRADUN: The revered Bhadraj Temple, a significant pilgrimage site nestled in the tranquil hills above Mussoorie, has announced a stringent new dress code, requiring all devotees to adhere to modest attire when visiting its sacred premises. The move, effective immediately, aims to uphold the sanctity and spiritual atmosphere of the ancient shrine, which attracts thousands of pilgrims annually. The Bhadraj Temple Committee, representing the Binhar Jaunpur Mussoorie and Pachwadoon regions, has made it unequivocally clear that individuals arriving in clothing deemed improper or indecent will be denied entry. This includes specific prohibitions on short clothes, skirts, off-pants, mini-skirts, night suits, and torn jeans. A unanimous decision has been taken to deny entry to those wearing such attire, Committee President Rajesh Nautiyal informed the TNIE . Everyone's conduct within the temple premises must reflect dignity and reverence for the sacred space, he added. Nautiyal further elaborated on the new policy, stating, Should someone arrive in clothes that appear immodest, the temple committee will provide them with a traditional dhoti. They must wear this before being permitted to enter the temple. This provision underscores the committee's commitment to facilitating spiritual access while strictly enforcing the new guidelines. Dedicated to Lord Balbhadra, the elder brother of Lord Krishna (also known as Lord Balaram), the Bhadraj Temple is more than just a significant pilgrimage destination. Perched at an altitude of 7,267 feet, approximately 10 kilometres from the popular hill station of Mussoorie, the temple offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Himalayas and the Doon Valley. Its serene mountain setting provides a unique blend of spiritual tranquility and an enchanting experience, establishing it as a hidden gem for nature enthusiasts. The Siddhapeeth Bhadraj Temple, a revered spiritual centre in Uttarakhand's Dehradun district, sees a substantial influx of devotees throughout the year, with numbers surging particularly during its popular annual fair. This year, the two-day fair is scheduled for August 16 and 17, and the new dress code will be rigorously enforced during this peak period. To ensure strict adherence, a special monitoring team has been constituted by the temple committee specifically for the upcoming fair. This team will oversee and identify devotees not complying with the new dress code, guiding them towards appropriate attire. A spokesperson for the Bhadraj Temple Committee emphasized the rationale behind the new regulations. This decision has been taken to preserve the sanctity and spiritual atmosphere inherent to a place of worship, the spokesperson stated. We firmly believe that appropriate attire reflects respect for the deity and the sacred space, fostering a more profound spiritual experience for all. The committee is making all necessary arrangements not only for the smooth conduct of the annual fair but also to ensure that the new dress code is implemented respectfully and effectively, aiming to provide a truly sacred experience for all visitors who embark on the spiritual journey to these revered heights.
India holds substantial rare earth reserves, estimated at 7.23 million tonnes, primarily in coastal regions, alongside augmented resources of REE ore. Coal India has addressed a significant number of consumer grievances related to coal quality. The Dehradun-Delhi highway is slated for completion by October 2025, while a government-WEF partnership aims to enhance skills development.
Drivers murder in Uttarakhand part of attempt to influence elections alleges police
DEHRADUN: A shocking political conspiracy has come to light in Uttarakhand, with police alleging that the brutal murder of a 32-year-old driver was a deliberate act aimed at manipulating the ongoing electoral process in the region. The victim, identified as Rahul, was found critically injured before succumbing to his wounds. The grim incident unfolded last Saturday when Rahul, son of Suraj Pal, a driver by profession, was discovered in a grave condition at a residence in Pannu Farm, falling under the Kunda police station jurisdiction in Udham Singh Nagar. He was immediately rushed to a nearby hospital, but tragically, he was pronounced dead upon arrival. Acting swiftly on a complaint filed by Rahuls wife, Ravina, a resident of Karanpur Colony, Kunda, authorities had initially registered a case against Pargat Singh Pannu and Kashmir Singh in connection with the death. Speaking to the TNIE , Senior Superintendent of Police of Rudrapur , Manikant Mishra revealed the sinister motive behind the crime. The primary objective behind Rahul's murder was to provide undue advantage to a specific electoral candidate, SSP Mishra stated. He further elaborated, Initial police investigations have uncovered that the murder was orchestrated with the clear intent to manipulate the electoral process in the area, thereby allowing a particular candidate to gain an unfair edge among voters. The assailants specifically targeted the deceased to establish a particular political narrative in favour of their chosen candidate. In a significant breakthrough, Kunda police have arrested two individuals in connection with the case: Balwinder Singh and Sukhwinder Singh. Interrogations are currently underway to unearth further details and identify all members involved in what appears to be an organised conspiracy. However, one key accused, Satnam, remains at large. SSP Mishra confirmed that multiple police teams have been formed and are conducting continuous raids to apprehend him. Both Sukhwinder Singh, who is now in custody, and the absconding Satnam possess extensive criminal records. Police records indicate a staggering 25 cases registered against them across various police stations in Uttarakhand and Uttar Pradesh. These charges include serious offenses such as murder, robbery, dacoity, as well as violations under the Gangster Act and Arms Act.
Dehradun Coaching Centre Tutor Makes Meghalaya Student Do 400 Sit-Ups For Talking In Class
In their complaint, the family said the student suffered severe leg pain and swelling after being forced to do sit-ups, and was later taken to an orthopaedic doctor
DEHRADUN: Uttarakhand's revered Char Dham Yatra continues its remarkable momentum, drawing an unprecedented number of pilgrims despite the relentless monsoon season. Even before July concludes, the pilgrim count has soared past the 40 lakh mark, with over three months of the sacred journey still remaining this year. The 84-day pilgrimage, which commenced on April 30, has seen Kedarnath Dham emerge as the most frequented, welcoming a staggering 14.19 lakh devotees. However, the spiritual journey remains fraught with challenges. Heavy rainfall has triggered widespread landslides and debris flow, leading to the closure of 54 roads across the state, including two crucial national highways. This has caused significant inconvenience for both local residents and the scores of pilgrims. According to the State Emergency Operation Centre, the Joshimath-Malari-Niti National Highway in Chamoli district is currently blocked near Bhapkund due to a massive rockfall. The closure even stranded 11 polling parties dispatched from Joshimath for the upcoming Panchayat elections, preventing them from reaching their designated polling stations late into the evening. Similarly, the Ghatiabagarh-Lipulekh-Gunji National Highway in Pithoragarh is impassable near Lamari (Kilometer 11 milestone). District-wise, road closures include five in Uttarkashi, six in Tehri, seven in Rudraprayag, nine in Pithoragarh, eleven in Pauri, one in Nainital, three in Dehradun, ten in Chamoli, and one each in Almora and Bageshwar. Despite these formidable hurdles, the pace of the Char Dham Yatra shows no signs of slowing down. The Char Dham Yatra began on April 30. While the monsoon's onset initially slowed the pace, the pilgrimage has continued robustly despite severe weather challenges, said Yogendra Gangwar, Joint Director of the Yatra Division at the Uttarakhand Tourism Department. As of Wednesday, after 85 days of the journey, over 4.06 million pilgrims have visited Kedarnath, Badrinath, Gangotri, Yamunotri, and Hemkund Sahib, Gangwar added. Gangwar highlighted the dramatic increase in daily visitors, which has surged from just over 8,000 on July 13 to a remarkable 30,000 now. Pilgrim Count by Dham (as of Wednesday): Kedarnath: 1,419,555 Badrinath: 1,189,747 Gangotri: 658,232 Yamunotri: 577,798 Hemkund Sahib: 218,536
Underperforming teachers in Uttarakhand to face mandatory hill transfers under new transfer policy
DEHRADUN: In a decisive and unprecedented move aimed at dramatically elevating educational standards, the Uttarakhand Education Ministry is poised to implement a transformative new transfer policy. According to sources in the Education Department, the new groundbreaking initiative, specifically targeting teachers who have consistently delivered subpar academic results, represents a significant shift from previous, less impactful reforms. After years of grappling with fluctuating educational outcomes, this latest directive is designed to inject accountability and rigor into the state's schooling system. Dubbed one of the department's more unconventional decrees, the revamped policy mandates that teachers demonstrating poor academic performance in plain areas over the past two years will be compulsorily transferred to schools located in the state's challenging hill regions. This measure is widely viewed not just as a disciplinary action but also as a strategic redeployment for those deemed to have damaged the future of children through ineffective teaching. The underlying philosophy ensures every teacher contributes meaningfully to student success. The 2017 Transfer Act previously governed all employee transfers, but the Education Department has now drafted a specific new policy tailored exclusively for teachers, Uttarakhand Education Minister Dr. Dhan Singh Rawat told the TNIE . This comprehensive policy, which is slated for presentation to the Cabinet very soon, fundamentally redefines the state's geographical divisions for transfer purposes. Instead of the previous 'Accessible' and 'Inaccessible' zones, the state will now be categorized into distinct 'Hilly' and 'Plain' regions, he added. Dr. Rawat further elaborated on the stringent criteria for these mandatory transfers: Under the new rules, any teacher whose students' Class 10th or 12th board examination results have been consistently poor for two consecutive academic years will face compulsory relocation to the hills. To be eligible for these mandatory transfers, teachers must also have accumulated at least 16 service points. These service points are typically calculated based on factors like years of service and postings in remote areas. All transfers will be conducted transparently through an online system, with allocation based on service points accumulated in either mountainous or plain regions. The policy precisely categorizes Uttarkashi, Chamoli, Pithoragarh, and Bageshwar as high hill districts. Other non-plain areas, including parts of Tehri, Rudraprayag, Pauri, Dehradun, Almora, Champawat, and Nainital, will be designated as low hill districts. Teachers will be required to complete a minimum service period in both regions, with a maximum tenure of five years in any specific sub-zone, ensuring a balanced distribution of experienced teachers. Currently, a one-time cadre change is permitted after three years of service. Special provisions have been incorporated for teachers serving in specialized institutions like SCERT, CIMAT, and DIET. Additionally, in a gesture of support, unmarried women teachers will be granted a one-time spousal transfer option to their husband's workplace or home district post-marriage.
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Grave of the fireflies: India's iconic insects face extinction amid 76% drop in numbers
DEHRADUN: The twinkling fireflies, once a staple of 80s Bollywood films and children's bedtime stories, are now facing an existential crisis. A recent nationwide census of fireflies, conducted by two scientists in collaboration with the Wildlife Institute of India (WII), has revealed a drastic and concerning 76 percent decline in their numbers across the country within just one year, pushing these enchanting insects to the brink of extinction. The grim reality came to light following a pioneering nationwide firefly census initiated by Senior Professor Dr Virendra Prasad Uniyal and Dr Nidhi Rana of Graphic Era University in Dehradun. The relentless march of materialism and the resultant light pollution have been identified as the primary culprits behind this alarming disappearance, Dr Uniyal told The New Indian Express . He emphasized that the artificial glow emanating from expanding urban centres is proving fatal for these nocturnal creatures. Utilizing special QR codes and links, the researchers engaged 232 participants from 22 states, including Uttarakhand, Kerala, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Karnataka, Gujarat, Punjab, Jharkhand, Bihar and Himachal Pradesh, in this citizen science initiative. According to Dr Uniyal, the findings are stark. This time, only 6,139 fireflies were recorded, Dr Uniyal stated, highlighting a significant drop from previous observations. He further explained, This is a very low number compared to last year, when approximately 26,000 fireflies were found across 20 states. This constant artificial illumination, he explained, fundamentally disrupts their natural cycles and, critically, their ability to find mates. For fireflies, which rely on their distinctive bioluminescent signals for reproduction, this environmental interference is proving to be a fatally disruptive force. The existence of these beautiful creatures, which once illuminated our dark nights, is now severely threatened, stated Dr Uniyal, commenting on the alarming findings. What we once only spoke of in stories is now rapidly becoming a distant memory. Dr Uniyal further emphasized the urgency of the situation. This rapid decline, especially the 76 per cent drop in just one year, is a stark warning for our ecosystem. Nature's beautiful glow is fading, and we must understand the implications of this loss. The study's revelations have ignited fresh concerns among environmentalists about the impact of unchecked development on biodiversity. Sadly, a continuous decline in firefly numbers is being observed today. The main reasons for this include the destruction of habitats, excessive use of artificial night light, increasing use of pesticides and chemical fertilisers in agricultural areas, and pollution of water sources, he said. Dr Uniyal attributed the alarming reduction primarily to human-induced environmental changes. Excessive artificial night lighting, from our villages to our sprawling metropolitan areas, is having the most devastating impact on the fireflies' delicate life cycle, he explained, emphasizing how constant illumination disrupts their natural ability to communicate and reproduce. He further explained that these combined factors are severely disrupting the natural life cycle of fireflies and critically endangering their populations.
Uttarakhand HC flags voter list duplication ahead of panchayat polls, seeks SEC report in a week
DEHRADUN: The Uttarakhand High Court has intensified its scrutiny of alleged discrepancies in voter lists for the upcoming Panchayat elections, slated to begin in two phases from July 24. Amid challenging weather conditions, the court on Tuesday heard a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) from Uttarkashi, specifically addressing these anomalies. Following the hearing, the High Court issued a clear directive to the State Election Commission, demanding a comprehensive report on the matter within one week. This swift intervention underscores the judiciary's urgency in ensuring the integrity of the electoral process ahead of the crucial local body polls. This is not the first instance of the High Court intervening in voter registration issues for the state's elections. Earlier, in a significant ruling based on a petition filed by Shakti Singh Barthwal, the court had already mandated stringent action. That order explicitly prohibited candidates from contesting elections if their names were found to be registered in two separate voter lists, emphasising the court's commitment to fair and transparent electoral practices. The current PIL, filed by Ram Singh of Barkot, Uttarkashi, further intensifies scrutiny on the accuracy of voter rolls. Singh's petition highlighted that while Barkot Nagar Palika has a population of 10,555, the initial voter list comprised 10,321 individuals. Subsequently, approximately 1,000 additional voters were included without proper identification of their original registration. An investigation by the Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM) confirmed these concerns, identifying a staggering 2,695 voters whose names appeared on two separate voter lists. The SDM has submitted this report to the State Election Commission, but the petitioner remains unaware of any decision regarding the voting status of these duplicate entries. Petitioner Shakti Singh Barthwal, who has been vocal on these issues, expressed grave concerns over the inclusion of candidates with duplicate names. Some individuals contesting the Panchayat elections have their names registered in the voter list at more than one place. This is a clear violation of the law and a betrayal of the democratic system, Barthwal stated. He further emphasised the severe implications of such irregularities: If such individuals win the elections, their membership will automatically be deemed null and void, and the seat will be vacated. This not only goes against the spirit of fair elections but also constitutes an affront to the rights of the people. The High Court, comprising Chief Justice G Narendar and Justice Alok Mehra, instructed the Election Commission to present the SDM's report to the court. The matter is scheduled for further hearing next week, as the court seeks clarity on the commission's decision regarding the voting rights of the identified duplicate voters.
The Delhi-Dehradun Expressway will provide a new route and less travel time for intercity commuters. To build more road network connectivity in the region, the 210-kilometre expressway will provide connectivity in regions encompassing Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, and Uttarakhand.
Delhi weather: National capital to witness light rains on Monday
Delhi is expected to experience cloudy skies and light rain, with temperatures ranging from 26 to 35 degrees Celsius. While there is no color-coded alert for Delhi, high humidity levels may cause discomfort. In contrast, Uttarakhand faces an orange alert for heavy rainfall, leading to school closures in Dehradun due to predicted lightning and strong winds.
Uttarakhand Issues Orange Alert; Schools Shut in Dehradun
The centre also said that letters have been sent to the district magistrates directing them to remain on alert and take necessary precautions
DEHRADUN: Dehradun Police have booked five individuals, allegedly linked to the 'Chhangur Baba gang', for attempting religious conversions among youth. The action, initiated at Ranipokhri police station, stems from a complaint by a local businessman whose daughter was reportedly targeted by the group, which allegedly operated a conversion racket through Instagram. Dehradun Senior Superintendent of Police Ajay Singh confirmed the development, stating, The Uttar Pradesh Anti-Terrorist Squad (ATS) had contacted Doon police regarding this matter, and subsequently took Abdul Rahman and a young woman named Mariam from Doiwala into custody for questioning. Based on the information provided by the UP ATS, Dehradun Police swiftly formed its own team and launched a thorough investigation into the alleged racket. During the course of their probe, several suspicious Instagram IDs linked to the operation were put under close surveillance. Police sources revealed that Abdul Rahman, a key figure, originally from Mainpuri, Uttar Pradesh, was born a Hindu but converted to Islam after coming into contact with Jalaluddin alias 'Chhangur Baba's' gang approximately 12 years ago. He had moved to the Selakui area about a decade and a half ago in search of work and currently works as a taxi driver in Shankarpur, Sahaspur. Following his conversion, Abdul Rahman's demeanour reportedly changed, leading him towards radicalisation and involvement in suspicious activities. Intelligence police had flagged his activities to headquarters about two and a half years ago. The issue of religious conversions has gained prominence, with approximately eight cases concerning young women coming to light in the Vikasnagar area over the past two years. Vikasnagar MLA Munna Singh Chauhan has prominently raised this issue, instructing the police to conduct a verification drive and take strict action against those operating conversion gangs. Speaking to the TNIE , MLA Chauhan stated, It is imperative to identify and take stringent action against gangs active in conversion, 'Love Jihad', and 'Land Jihad'. Local police have been directed to conduct a verification drive to identify such individuals, especially those who have recently moved into the area. He also clarified that the Muslim community residing in Vikasnagar and Sahaspur for a long time, who believe in social harmony, should not be harassed.
Dehradun Diary: From Kedarnath mule paths to IIT Madras, Atuls journey is one of grit and goals
Atul Kumar once made a living by transporting pilgrims on mules and horseback along the Kedarnath Dham trails, suppoting his family with the little he earned. Now, Atul head for IIT Madras, having cleared the IIT-Joint Admission Test (JAM) 2025. Son of a horse breeder from a small village in Rudraprayag, Atul says, My only goal is to progress and do something better for myself and my family. He began preparing for the IIT-JAM examination last July after returning from Kedarnath, relying on a friends shared notes due to limited resources and connectivity in the mountainous region. His dedication led to success in the February examination. Guv intervention sought in alleged poll fraud Petitioner Shakti Singh Bartwal has approached the Raj Bhavan complaining of the Uttarakhand State Election Commissions inaction on voter list irregularities for the upcoming panchayat polls. Bartwal alleges, the SEC defied High Court orders to probe individuals registered in two separate constituencies, in violation of the Uttarakhand Panchayat Raj Act. He accuses the SEC of malicious functioning, favouring certain individuals, despite the specific directions for thorough probe and action. Bartwal urged the Governor to intervene immediately, threatening to file a contempt of court petition if the SEC continues to disregard judicial directives. Dham replica sparks row, priests threaten action The Char Dham Teerth Purohit Mahapanchayat has strongly opposed construction of a symbolic Kedarnath temple in Saifai, Uttar Pradesh, vowing legal action if the plan proceeds. Replicating Kedarnath Dhams architecture and sanctum hurts sentiments of millions of Sanatanis, Suresh Semwal, Mahapanchayat president, said. He highlighted their past opposition to similar moves and cited Uttarakhands July 2024 resolution against misusing Char Dham names. While temple construction is welcome, Char Dhams hold unique, sacred significance for crores of Hindus, the priests body statement read. narendra sethi Our correspondent in Uttarakhand narendrasethi@newindianexpress.com
Uttarakhand leads the way in restoring 14 critically endangered plant species
DEHRADUN: The Himalayan state of Uttarakhand a region boasting 69 per cent forest cover and a strong national presence in wildlife conservation has launched a unique program to revive 14 critically endangered Red Category plant species. After four years of dedicated effort, the Uttarakhand Forest Department is now ready to re-establish rare plant species in their natural habitats, a unique national initiative to save endangered flora. This biodiversity conservation program, spearheaded by the Forest Department's research branch, is being hailed as an inspirational step towards a greener future, not just for the state but for the entire country. Speaking to TNIE , Chief Conservator of Forests (Research) Sanjiv Chaturvedi highlighted the state's rich floral diversity, saying, Uttarakhand is a biodiversity hotspot renowned for its rich and unique floral diversity, particularly in its high-altitude ecosystems. The state harbors a variety of rare, endangered, and threatened (RET) plant species, many of which are endemic to the Western Himalayas and hold immense ecological, medicinal, and cultural significance. These species thrive in fragile habitats ranging from alpine meadows to Terai regions. However, CCF Sanjiv expressed concern over the threats faced by these species, stating, These species face severe threats from overexploitation, habitat degradation, climate change, and low regeneration, pushing many to the brink of extinction. CCF Chaturvedi shared insights into the ambitious project. These plants have been successfully cultivated in the Uttarakhand Forest Department's high-altitude Himalayan research centres, Chaturvedi explained. Concurrently, the natural habitats of these species have been scientifically mapped. With the arrival of the monsoon, these species are being replanted in their original natural locations after necessary soil improvement. The first phase of planting is expected to be completed by the end of July. Chaturvedi further emphasised the broader impact of the initiative. The success of this endeavour will not only be a source of pride for Uttarakhand but will also pave the way for the conservation of endangered plants in other states across the country, he asserted. The first phase of the program targets 14 species that are either listed as endangered/critically endangered on the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List or are included in the Uttarakhand State Biodiversity Board's list of endangered species. These primarily include Trayman, Red Crane Orchid, White Himalayan Lily, Gollan Himalayan Spike, Doon Cheesewood, Kumaon Fan Palm, Jatamansi, Patwa, and Himalayan Arnebia. According to CCF Chaturvedi, this marks the first time a conservation program has been launched for plant species mirroring the efforts typically seen for wildlife. Until now, such endeavours were primarily focused on animals, but plant species are equally endangered, and their conservation is the need of the hour, he stated. He added that most of these species are of immense medicinal importance and have been over-exploited, leading to a rapid decline in their natural populations.
The Supreme Court has commuted death sentences in two cases. The court stated brutality alone cannot justify capital punishment. Courts must consider socio-economic background and psychological condition. One case involved a family massacre in Karnataka. The other involved child rape and murder in Dehradun. The Supreme Court criticized lower courts for focusing solely on the crime's gruesomeness.
Uttarakhand plants record 8.13 Lakh saplings as part of 'Harela' festival
DEHRADUN: 8,13,000 saplings were planted across Uttarakhand as the traditional Harela festival transformed into a massive green movement, marking a historic environmental milestone for the Himalayan state. This festival demonstrates that Uttarakhand is not merely a Himalayan state, but a symbol of a conscious and active society dedicated to protecting its water, forests, and land, Chief Minister Dhami stated, underscoring the state's commitment to ecological balance. What was once a simple cultural celebration has now become a powerful, people-driven campaign for ecological conservation, added CM Dhami. Dhami further elaborated on the state's guiding philosophy, adding, The state government is moving forward by balancing development and faith, and environmental protection is an integral part of our primary policy. Noting the evolving significance of the festival, the Chief Minister declared, Harela is no longer merely a cultural festival; it has become a celebration of the collective consciousness of the people of Uttarakhand. Chief Minister Dhami himself inaugurated the drive in Dehradun, emphasising his vision for it to be a people's green movement rather than solely a government undertaking. Thousands of planting events were subsequently organised across all 13 districts, spanning villages, towns, cities, and schools. The seeds being sown today are symbols of greenery, hope, faith, and sustainable development. In the coming years, these very seeds will form the foundation for a green, prosperous, and environmentally sensitive Uttarakhand, asserted CM Dhami.
Uttarakhand steps up vigilance in jails to curb radicalisation
DEHRADUN: Uttarakhand authorities are set to implement stringent measures to curb the growing threat of radicalization within the states prison system. The move involves a comprehensive identification and evaluation process of inmates across all jails. Inmates found promoting extremist ideologies will be segregated and placed under strict surveillance. The move comes as the states Home Department begins implementing central government directives aimed at tackling the rising influence of radical elements in correctional facilities. Confirming the development, Home Secretary Shailesh Bagoli said, We have received guidelines from the Central Government in this regard. Based on these, necessary instructions are being dispatched to all jails for immediate action. Uttarakhand has 11 jails housing around 6,300 inmates, including 2,400 convicts and the rest undertrials. Jail officials have observed a surge in extremist ideologies among inmates in recent times, which they believe poses a serious threat. Authorities say radicalization often manifests through feelings of isolation, violent tendencies, and anti-social behaviour. Concerns have been raised about the possibility of inmates conspiring to harm staff, fellow prisoners, or coordinating activities from inside jail. Officials also worry that violent inmates may influence vulnerable individuals. Authorities say radicalization often manifests as isolation, violent tendencies, and anti-social behaviour. Concerns have been raised about the possibility of inmates conspiring to harm staff, fellow prisoners, or coordinating activities from inside jail. Officials also worry that violent inmates may influence vulnerable individuals. To tackle the issue, the Centre has recommended rehabilitation programmes involving counselling, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), and participation from scholars and social workers. Other recommendations include specialized training for prison staff, improved family-inmate communication, heightened security, and enhanced monitoring, data management of prisoners and classified monitoring of inmates. Uttarakhands DIG (Jails) Dadhi Ram Maurya told TNIE, Given that jails are inherently crowded environments, instructions have been received to closely monitor inmates who are likely to incite against the system. He added that strict surveillance is also maintained over the visitors and family members of such inmates.
Gita, Ramayana in school curriculum sparks constitutional debate in Uttarakhand
DEHRADUN: Rooted in Sanatan Dharma's belief that the Srimad Bhagavad Gita serves as a profound guide for life's conduct, the Uttarakhand government, under Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami's directives, has incorporated the Gita and Ramayana into the state curriculum framework. However, this move, implemented from Wednesday, has allegedly met with immediate and widespread opposition from the state's teaching community. The protesting teacher associations assert that these are religious texts, and as per the Constitution, religious education cannot be imparted in educational institutions. Sanjay Kumar Tamta, President of the Teacher Association, articulated their stance to this newspaper, stating, Article 28(1) of the Indian Constitution explicitly states that religious instruction shall not be provided in any educational institution wholly maintained out of State funds or receiving aid from State funds. This provision is designed to uphold the nation's secular fabric and ensure equal respect for all religions. He further argued, The directive to incorporate Gita shlokas into prayer assemblies violates the constitutional framework, thereby undermining the principle of secular education in government schools. These schools serve students from diverse religious, caste, and community backgrounds. Mandating the recitation of verses from a single religious text can foster feelings of discomfort and discrimination among adherents of other faiths and communities, which runs contrary to the objectives of social harmony and inclusive education. Mr Tamta articulately presented these points. Countering this perspective, Dr Mukul Kumar Sati, the Director of Education, informed this newspaper about the instructions given to all Chief Education Officers: Students are to recite at least one shloka with its meaning daily during prayer assemblies. Additionally, one value-based shloka is to be declared the Shloka of the Week and displayed on the notice board with its meaning. Students will practise it, and a discussion will be held, and feedback collected on the last day of the week. Dr Sati further elaborated on the intent, stating that teachers should periodically explain the shlokas and inform students how the principles of the Srimad Bhagavad Gita foster values, improve behaviour, develop leadership skills, enhance decision-making abilities, promote emotional balance, and cultivate scientific thinking. Students should also be apprised that the teachings in the Srimad Bhagavad Gita are rooted in Sankhya philosophy, psychology, logic, behavioural science, and moral philosophy, making them universally beneficial for humanity from a secular viewpoint, asserted Director Dr Sati.
Uttarakhand's biggest ecstasy bust: Kingpin held, massive MDMA seizure
DEHRADUN: A major illicit drug manufacturing unit has been busted in Nanakmatta, Uttarakhand, resulting in the arrest of its alleged operator, Kunal Ram Kohli from Tanakpur. According to police sources, the joint operation conducted by the Uttarakhand Special Task Force (STF) and Udham Singh Nagar Police also led to the recovery of significant quantities of raw materials used in the production of MDMA (commonly known as Ecstasy), sourced from Banaras and Ghaziabad. Speaking to TNIE , Udham Singh Nagar Senior Superintendent of Police, Manikant Mishra, said: We have confiscated 126 litres of banned chemicals and 28 kilograms of powder. This raw material was sufficient to produce approximately 12 kilograms of MDMA. Additionally, 7.41 grams of finished MDMA were also seized during the raid. This marks one of the largest drug-related crackdowns in the region to date. Providing further details on Tuesday, Director General of Police Deepam Seth linked the arrest to earlier operations. On 11 July, Champawat Police had arrested a woman named Isha, from whom over five kilograms of MDMA were seized. Prior to this, the Mumbai Police and Crime Branch had also conducted operations in various parts of the Kumaon region, DGP Seth stated. Investigations had earlier revealed that MDMA was being produced at a chicken farm in the Thal police station area of Pithoragarh. Mumbai Police had arrested several traffickers and manufacturers from that site. Ongoing investigations by both the Mumbai and Champawat Police eventually identified Kunal Ram Kohli as a key suspect. He had been under close surveillance by the STF and police teams from Pithoragarh, Champawat, and Udham Singh Nagar. Intelligence reports later located him in the Nursery Tiraha area of Nanakmatta. Acting on this information, the STF and Nanakmatta Police successfully arrested Kohli on Monday evening. The raw materials were subsequently recovered following his interrogation. Police confirmed that the illicit MDMA was intended for supply to Mumbai. Authorities also revealed that the trafficking and manufacturing network has links extending into Nepal. Kohli reportedly procured the raw chemicals from factories based in Banaras and Ghaziabad. The police have since issued directives to monitor chemical manufacturing units across Uttarakhand, suspecting potential involvement in similar illegal operations. Confiscated raw materials include: Dichloromethane: 57.5 litres Acetone for Synthesis: 20 litres Hydrochloric Acid: 47.5 litres Methylamine Solution: 500 millilitres Sodium Hydroxide: 28 kilograms About Ecstasy (MDMA): Ecstasy, or MDMA (3,4-Methylenedioxy-N-methamphetamine), is an illicitly manufactured stimulant drug that can produce both euphoric and hallucinogenic effects. It is commonly misused in party and nightlife settings and poses significant health risks.
8 killed, including two children, as vehicle plunges into gorge in Uttarakhand's Pithoragarh
DEHRADUN: Eight people died and six others were injured, two critically, after a Maxx pickup vehicle plunged into a gorge in Uttarakhand's border district of Pithoragarh on Tuesday evening. The vehicle was en route from Muwani village, under Thal police station, to Bokta village. According to police, the ill-fated vehicle lost control near Suni Bridge and plummeted nearly 300 meters into the gorge. Among the deceased are two schoolchildren. Pithoragarh Superintendent of Police Rekha Yadav confirmed the grim details, stating, A vehicle carrying 14 people met with an accident near Suni bridge in Muwani village, resulting in 8 deaths. Police and SDRF personnel immediately reached the spot and conducted relief and rescue operations. The devastating incident occurred approximately 52 kilometers from the district headquarters. With 14 passengers on board, the vehicle plunged into the deep gorge, reportedly with screams filling the air. Eight people died on the spot. Local villagers, alongside police personnel, immediately launched a swift rescue operation. The injured were pulled from the gorge and transported to the district hospital for urgent medical attention. All the deceased were reportedly residents of Bokta village, casting a pall of gloom over the community. Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed deep condolences over the Pithoragarh road accident. He announced an ex-gratia of Rs 2 lakh each for the families of the deceased and Rs 50,000 for the injured from the Prime Minister's National Relief Fund. Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami expressed profound grief over the accident. Taking to X (formerly Twitter), he wrote, Received the extremely sad news of a vehicle accident in the Muwani area of Pithoragarh district, which is very painful. The Chief Minister directed the district administration and rescue teams to expedite relief efforts and ensure the injured receive timely, appropriate, and free medical treatment. Police have released the identities of the eight passengers who died and the six who sustained injuries. Authorities have launched an investigation into the cause of the accident. Among those confirmed dead are Simran (8), Tanuja (14), and Vineeta (15), both daughters of Chandra Singh. Narendra Singh (40), identified as the vehicle's driver and son of Chandra Singh, was also among the fatalities. Other victims include Rajan Singh (60), Hoshiyar Singh (65), Shanti Devi (50), and Diksha (26).
Uttarakhand@25: Tracing the states journey of progress and possibilities
Uttarakhand celebrates 25 years, showcasing progress under chief minister Pushkar Singh Dhami. Key reforms include the Uniform Civil Code and anti-copying law. The state focuses on improved connectivity and tourism. The Mukhyamantri Udan Khatola Yojana and ropeway projects boost accessibility. The Delhi-Dehradun Expressway is set to open. House of Himalayas promotes local artisans.
Uttarakhand HC firm on dual voter list order; SEC faces fresh setback in Panchayat polls
DEHRADUN: In a significant blow to the State Election Commission (SEC), the Nainital High Court has once again taken a stringent stand on the upcoming three-tier Panchayat elections in Uttarakhand, slated for the end of this month. During a crucial hearing on Monday, the court issued explicit directives, stating that elections must adhere strictly to the provisions of the Panchayati Raj Act, warning that no violation would be tolerated. The court reiterated that candidates whose names appear on voter lists in two different locations will be deemed ineligible to contest. This controversy primarily revolves around candidates whose names are registered in both municipal (urban) and three-tier Panchayat (rural) voter lists. Dehradun-based social activist Shakti Singh Bartwal initially highlighted this anomaly. On July 7 and 8, Bartwal wrote to the Uttarakhand State Election Commission, urging them to issue clear guidelines to prevent voters listed in urban body electoral rolls from participating or nominating themselves in the Panchayat elections. Dissatisfied with the Commission's response and alleging non-compliance with Sub-sections 6 and 7 of Section 9 of the Panchayati Raj Act, Bartwal filed a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) in the High Court. His petition argued that having names on two separate voter lists is considered a criminal offense in other states, questioning the basis on which the Uttarakhand SEC was approving such candidacies. The High Court had previously issued directives on this matter on July 11 . Against these instructions, the State Election Commission had filed a review petition , arguing that significant resources had already been expended on the election process and seeking clarification on the decision's impact on the ongoing electoral exercise. During Monday's hearing on the SEC's review petition, the High Court reiterated its earlier orders, effectively dismissing the Commission's arguments. The court emphatically stated, Elections must be conducted only under the provisions of the Panchayati Act. The court also clarified that it had not imposed any stay on the Panchayat elections. Furthermore, it stated that if any objection or complaint arises regarding a candidate, the aggrieved party could file a petition even after the elections. Advocates Sanjay Bhatt and Special Counsel Arvind Vashishth represented the State Election Commission in court. The High Court's decision has once again sent ripples through the Panchayat election process across the state's 12 districts. The situation has been further complicated by varying decisions from Returning Officers regarding dual-listed candidates, with some nominations being rejected while others were accepted. Following the Nainital High Court's order, the SEC has revised symbol allocation dates for Panchayat elections: commenced on Monday at 2 PM, continuing Tuesday from 8 AM until completion.
AIIMS study links sleep disorders to road accidents
DEHRADUN: Forget drunken driving for a moment. A groundbreaking study by the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), Rishikesh, reveals that sleep-related disorders are emerging as the single largest cause of road accidents in Uttarakhand. This isnt just about long-haul trucks; even small vehicles on daily city commutes are falling victim to drowsy driving. The research, conducted by the Sleep Division of AIIMS Psychiatry Department, has been published in the prestigious American medical journal Cureus. While authorities frequently launch campaigns against drunk driving, the study suggests the reality on Uttarakhands roads is far more complex. Researchers examined approximately 1,200 individuals injured in various road accidents who were admitted to AIIMS between October 2021 and April 2022. They concluded that 75 per cent of these 575 drivers were operating two- or three-wheelers. Our findings indicate that a significant 21 per cent of accidents were directly caused by drivers falling asleep or experiencing sleep-related issues while at the wheel, stated Professor Ravi Gupta and Dr. Vishal Dhiman, directors of the study. They further highlighted that exhaustion from overwork accounted for another 26% of crashes. While alcohol was a factor in 32 per cent of crashes, the study noted that many of these drivers also suffered from underlying sleep issues, with alcohol consumption exacerbating their condition. Strikingly, about 68 per cent of sleep-related accidents occurred on straight, everyday roads, not just winding mountain passes. Most incidents happened between 6 PM and midnight, a period often associated with fatigue. The medical experts are now calling for a paradigm shift in driver evaluation. We believe that screening for sleep disorders should be a crucial part of the driving licence issuance process, urged Prof. Ravi Gupta. It would be beneficial if sleep health was included in the medical examinations during the licensing procedure, alongside regular checks for drivers. He also suggested the implementation of in-vehicle sensors to alert drowsy drivers. Most drivers know they are sleepy but continue to drive. Dr Madhur Uniyal, a senior trauma surgeon at AIIMS and a member of the Road Safety Council of India, told this newspaper. They must be educated to pull over, take a nap, and resume driving when refreshed. Commercial vehicle owners, too, must ensure that their drivers get adequate rest.
Bihar's 'Tanishq robbery' mastermind, LJP leader's murder accused nabbed by Uttarakhand STF
DEHRADUN: The Uttarakhand Special Task Force (STF) has achieved a significant breakthrough by arresting a notorious gangster from Bihar. The criminal was a wanted suspect in a major jewellery heist worth Rs 3.70 crore and is also accused of murdering a Lok Janshakti Party leader. According to the STF, the accused, identified as Mohammad Rahul alias Shakib, was hiding under a fake identity in Kaliyar Sharif area of Roorkee, Haridwar. His arrest on Sunday marks the end of several months of his evasion. Senior Superintendent of Police Navneet Singh Bhullar of the STF provided detailed information about the arrest. He stated, Mohammad Rahul alias Shakib was a wanted suspect in a multi-crore jewellery robbery and is also accused of murdering a Lok Janshakti Party (LJP) leader in Bihar. SSP Bhullar elaborated on the Tanishq showroom robbery that took place on July 26 last year, in Purnia district, Bihar. Six criminals had robbed the Tanishq showroom located in Khajanchi Haat police station area at gunpoint, looting jewellery worth Rs 3.70 crore, he explained. He further detailed the subsequent actions, saying, Following the incident, one accused, Chunmun Jha , was killed in a police encounter, while four other accused are currently in jail. However, Mohammad Rahul alias Shakib, who was a key member of this robbery gang, had been absconding since the incident. SSP Bhullar informed that the Uttarakhand STF received precise intelligence from Bihar Police that Rahul was hiding in Kaliyar. Describing the operation, he said, Based on this information, the STF team acted swiftly. They successfully arrested the wanted accused from the Kaliyar police station area using manual policing and their informer network. This high-profile arrest is part of a special campaign being run by the Director General of Police of Uttarakhand, Deepam Seth, to apprehend long-absconding wanted criminals and gangsters across the state. This action by the STF reinforces the commitment to maintaining law and order in the state.
FIL Industries eyes more ropeway projects, looks to raise Rs 200 cr via equity
NEW DELHI, July 13: Diversified enterprise FIL Industries Pvt Ltd is looking to add four to five projects to its ropeway business and plans to raise Rs 200 crore on equity to expand the vertical, according to its Executive Director Syed Junaid Altaf. The company, which has invested about Rs 750 crore on three ropeway projects Skyview by Empyrean at Patnitop, Dehradun-Mussoorie and Yamunotri-Kharsali plans to bundle all of its current and future projects in a single [] The post FIL Industries eyes more ropeway projects, looks to raise Rs 200 cr via equity appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Operation Kalnemi: 118 fake 'babas' busted in Uttarakhand
DEHRADUN: In a massive statewide crackdown dubbed 'Operation Kalnemi', Uttarakhand Police have arrested 118 fraudulent spiritual healers and mendicants across the state within the last 24 hours. According to the police, the widespread campaign targets individuals posing as 'Peer-Fakirs' who are exploiting unsuspecting citizens. As part of the ongoing drive, 66 suspicious individuals were specifically detained in Udham Singh Nagar on Saturday alone. Police confirmed that those arrested were found to possess criminal tendencies, preying on the vulnerable. They stand accused of misleading innocent citizens and subjecting them to mental, physical, and financial exploitation. We are committed to rooting out these fraudsters who exploit the faith of innocent people, Senior Superintendent of Police in Udham Singh Nagar, Manikant Mishra told TNIE , adding, This operation aims to protect our citizens from financial and emotional ruin at the hands of these charlatans. In a continuing crackdown on fraudulent spiritualists, Dehradun Police on Saturday arrested 23 more individuals posing as 'holy men' or 'babas' from various police station areas across the city. This marks the second consecutive day of the concerted effort, which saw 25 similar arrests made on Friday . Of the 23 arrested on Saturday, 10 were identified as hailing from other states, indicating a wider network of alleged fraudsters. Police are actively arresting individuals who, disguised as sadhus and saints, lure and defraud women and youth by promising solutions to their domestic problems, SSP Ajay Singh stated. Meanwhile, Hindu religious groups welcome Uttarakhand Govt's 'Operation Kalanemi' targeting fake seers. Uttarakhand's ongoing campaign against fraudulent spiritual leaders, often referred to as 'dhongi babas' or fake gurus, has been given a striking name: 'Operation Kalnemi'. The name is directly linked to Kalnemi, a powerful Asura (demon) from Hindu mythology
Uttarakhand HC stays dual voter list circular, affirms constitutional right to vote
DEHRADUN: The Uttarakhand High court has temporarily stayed a controversial circular issued by the State Election Commission (SEC) regarding individuals whose names appear on both urban municipal and rural gram panchayat voter lists. While affirming that a person can only vote or contest elections from a single location, a division bench also underscored the constitutional right of every citizen to exercise their franchise. The matter was heard by a bench comprising Chief Justice G Narendar and Justice Alok Mehra. The court's decision came amidst a public interest litigation (PIL) challenging the ambiguity surrounding dual voter entries during the forthcoming Panchayat elections. The SEC had initially circulated a directive to all District Magistrates, seeking clarification on whether individuals listed in both urban and rural voter rolls should be permitted to vote or contest. However, the commission reportedly received no clear or positive response from the administration on this crucial query. During Friday's hearing, the High Court put a stay on the SEC's circular, explicitly stating that it was not in favour of obstructing the ongoing election process. The Election Commission, in its submission, explained that the circular was merely an attempt to seek opinions from District Magistrates on the applicability of rules for those with dual entries. The SEC further clarified that Sub-section 13 of Section 9 of the Panchayati Raj Act mandates that a voter or candidate's name should appear in only one voter list. It was based on these considerations and the broader principle of constitutional voting rights that the High Court decided to stay the operation of the SEC's earlier directive. The issue had gained significant prominence as several candidates contesting the ongoing Panchayat elections were found to have their names listed in both municipal and three-tier panchayat voter rolls. This anomaly led to varying decisions by returning officers, with some nominations being rejected while others were accepted despite dual entries. The PIL filed in the High Court had argued that having names on two separate voter lists is considered a criminal offence in any state across the country. The petitioner questioned the basis on which the Uttarakhand State Election Commission was approving the candidacies of such individuals. The litigation originated from a complaint lodged by social activist Shakti Singh Bartwal. Bartwal, who had written to the Uttarakhand State Election Commission on July 7 and 8, told TNIE , I had sought clear directives from the State Election Commission to prevent voters and candidates whose names appear on municipal election rolls from participating in the ongoing three-tier Panchayat elections. Dissatisfied with the SEC's response and alleging non-compliance with Sub-sections 6 and 7 of Section 9 of the Panchayati Raj Act, the petitioner subsequently approached the High Court.
Operation Kalanemi: 23 fake sadhus arrested in Uttarkhand; crackdown on religious fraud
Uttarakhand's Chief Minister, Pushkar Singh Dhami, has initiated 'Operation Kalanemi,' a statewide crackdown on individuals falsely presenting themselves as religious figures and exploiting people's faith. The operation led to the arrest of 23 imposters in Dehradun, with 10 originating from other states. Religious bodies support the initiative, emphasizing the need to protect Sanatan Dharma and ensure the safety of devotees.
Operation Kalanemi: 23 Fake babas arrested in Uttarakhand
Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami initiated Operation Kalanemi to combat individuals exploiting religious sentiments in Devbhoomi. Dehradun Police arrested 23 fake babas posing as saints, with 10 being from other states.
Assam Sends Preserved Rhino Horns for Genetic Testing to Wildlife Institute of India
HT DIGITAL GUWAHATI, JULY 12: In a significant move towards wildlife conservation and scientific research, the government of Assam has dispatched preserved rhino horn samples to the Wildlife Institute of India (WII) in Dehradun for genetic analysis. The initiative is to enhance the understanding of the genetic heritage of Assams legendary one-horned rhinoceros and reinforce []
Bangladeshi national among 25 fake 'babas' held in Dehradun
DEHRADUN: In a sweeping crackdown dubbed Operation Kalnemi, Dehradun police have arrested 25 individuals masquerading as spiritual gurus or 'Babas,' including a Bangladeshi national who now faces charges under the Foreigners Act. Senior Superintendent of Police of Dehradun Ajay Singh told this newspaper that the operation involved identifying suspects oaming in the guise of sadhus and saints across various police station areas. I personally went to Nehru Colony and interrogated these individuals, SSP Singh stated. As they possessed no certificates for astrology or spiritual guidance, they were deemed to be deceiving the public and were subsequently arrested. Police sources revealed that the majority of the arrested individuals hail from other Indian states. The Bangladeshi national, identified as Rukan Rakam alias Shah Alam (26), was arrested from the Sahaspur police station area. Teams from the Local Intelligence Unit (LIU) and the Intelligence Bureau (IB) are currently interrogating him, with a case registered against him under the Foreigners Act. SSP Singh has directed all station house officers to identify and take strict action against those who deceive people by creating a facade of religion. It is noteworthy that two months prior, a significant number of such imposter 'Babas' had fled Uttarakhand during a drive to demolish illegal shrines operating in the state. The state government on Friday issued a stern warning, declaring that just as the demon Kalnemi attempted to mislead people by donning the guise of a sage numerous 'Kalnemis' are active in society today. Authorities have vowed he severest possible action against any individual found committing crimes while adorned in religious attire. In a strong statement released on Friday, the state government clarified its commitment o protecting public sentiment, the dignity of Sanatan culture, and social harmony. It emphatically stated that those who spread hypocrisy and commit fraud in the name of faith will under no circumstances be spared. Kalnemi is a powerful Asura (demon) in Hindu mythology. He is a significant character in the epic Ramayana, where he is described as the son of Maricha, Ravana's uncle, and a key aide to Ravana. Kalnemi was famously dispatched by Ravana to obstruct and kill Hanuman while the latter was on his mission to retrieve the Sanjeevani Booti, a life-saving herb. The list of 'Babas' arrested on Friday includes Rukan Rakam alias Shah Alam (Bangladesh), Pradeep (Saharanpur), Ajay Chauhan (Saharanpur), Anil Giri (Himachal Pradesh), Mangal Singh (Dehradun), Roja Singh (Dehradun), Komal Kumar (Uttar Pradesh), Ashwani Kumar (Uttar Pradesh), Rajanath (Dehradun), Ramkrishna (Haryana), Shauki Nath (Haryana), Madan Singh Samant (Champawat/Haridwar), Rahul Joshi (Uttar Pradesh), Mohammed Salim (Haridwar), Shinbhu Nath (Rajasthan), Sugyan Yogi (Rajasthan), Mohan Jogi (Rajasthan), Nawal Singh (Rajasthan), Bhagwan Sah (Rajasthan), Hariom Yogi (Rajasthan), Ramkumar (Uttar Pradesh), Girdharilal (Rajasthan), Arjun Das (Assam), Kaku (Haridwar), and Suresh Lal (Uttar Pradesh).
The orders to unseal the madrasa was issued by the Bench of Justice Ravindra Maithani, which on April 3, had also issued similar relief for Dehradun-based madrasa
Kanwar Yatra Begins, Thousands Of Devotees Reach Haridwar To Fetch Water From Ganga
Dehradun, Jul 11: The Kanwar Yatra began on Friday amid tight security arrangements as thousands of Kanwariyas reached the holy city of Haridwar to collect Ganga water. Since morning, a sea of saffron was seen at various ghats of Haridwar, including Har Ki Pauri, where kanwariyas took bath and collected water. Every year, with the beginning of the month of Sawan, kanwariyas from different states fetch water from Ganga in Haridwar and perform jalabhishek at Shiva temples in their native [] The post Kanwar Yatra Begins, Thousands Of Devotees Reach Haridwar To Fetch Water From Ganga appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Residents of a Bengaluru apartment complex were shocked when police arrested Nitesh Subbu, a 26-year-old unemployed graduate, for a series of thefts. Subbu targeted locked flats, including that of a professor working in Dehradun, stealing gold, silver, and diamond ornaments worth Rs 60.4 lakh. He would ring doorbells to check occupancy before breaking in if no one answered.
Uttarakhand govt employee seeks official recognition as male; first such application in state
DEHRADUN: A government employee from Uttarakhand has formally applied to transition from female to male, marking the state's first such official request within its public sector. This unprecedented case has not only ignited discussions in administrative circles but also sparked broader conversations on the social and psychological aspects of gender identity. Sources said that the employee, a regular staffer in a Uttarakhand government department, submitted a formal application through due process. The plea seeks official recognition as a man. Significantly, the application has been taken with utmost seriousness at the governmental level, with necessary procedures already initiated. Secretariat sources revealed that the employee has attached essential medical reports and expert opinions to his application. Given the sensitivity of the matter, the decision is being deliberated at a high level, with more expert opinions being sought. Consultations are also underway within the State Home Department. While the personal reasons behind this decision whether mental, social, or physical have not been publicly disclosed, the move has undeniably triggered significant debate within Uttarakhand's administrative framework. The case comes against the backdrop of evolving legal frameworks on gender identity in India, particularly following Supreme Court rulings that affirm an individual's constitutional right to choose their gender identity. However, such a move by a serving government employee presents new administrative challenges, including amendments to service registers, revision of identity documents, and implications for future appointments or promotions. Renu D Singh, an activist lawyer for gender equality rights in Uttarakhand, provided crucial legal context to TNIE . Under international human rights declarations, this law is fully prevalent in India, Singh stated. An individual, whether male or female, can voluntarily choose their gender. This is also provisioned in the law, she stated. Singh further clarified the legal distinctions: While transsexual individuals are required to provide authentic documents in this regard, transgender individuals only need to furnish information. She added that individuals are legally permitted to undergo gender reassignment. Elaborating on the procedural requirements, Singh further clarified, If the individual is transsexual, they are required to submit all relevant documents to the Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM) of their jurisdiction. However, if they identify as transgender, they simply need to formally notify the SDM, stating, 'From now on, I shall be known as a man.' Currently, departmental authorities are meticulously examining all facets of this case. While the employee's decision underscores individual freedom and the right to identity, it also raises a pertinent question: Is our administrative system fully prepared for such profound personal transitions?
New data confirms tigers as more aggressive than leopards in Uttarakhand
DEHRADUN: In a surprising twist of perception, Uttarakhand's leopards, long associated with cunning tactics and frequent attacks in residential areas, are now often seen as less aggressive than the region's tigers. This public sentiment, however, is starkly contradicted by official human-wildlife conflict data spanning the last decade, which reveals leopards are responsible for significantly more human deaths and injuries. According to internal records from the Forest Department, the period between 2014 and 2024 paints a grim reality. Leopard attacks resulted in a staggering 214 human fatalities and left 1,006 individuals injured across the state. In stark contrast, tiger attacks during the same decade, while still deadly, accounted for 68 deaths and 83 injuries figures significantly lower than those attributed to leopards. The trend for the current year, from January to June, further complicates the narrative. Forest Department statistics indicate a total of 25 human deaths and 136 injuries from all wildlife attacks. Within this timeframe, tigers were responsible for 10 fatalities and three injuries, while leopards caused six deaths and 25 injuries, underscoring their continued impact, particularly in non-fatal encounters. In response to escalating human-wildlife conflict, the state forest department has intensified its mitigation efforts. A dedicated rescue operation, spanning from January 1 of last year to June 30 this year, saw the capture of eight 'ferocious' tigers. Of these, seven have been transferred to specialized rescue centers for rehabilitation, while one was released back into its natural habitat, reflecting a nuanced approach to conservation. The department has also issued 25 permits for tiger-related caging, tranquilization, and medical treatment. Significantly, the Forest Department has ramped up its efforts concerning leopards, capturing 44 individuals during the same period as the recent tiger operations. Nineteen of these leopards have been relocated to rescue centers for rehabilitation. Additional Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (Wildlife), Vivek Pandey, detailed the comprehensive strategy, stating, During this period, 124 permits were issued for caging and tranquilizing leopards. He added, Additionally, five permits were granted for euthanasia in unavoidable circumstances, and four for providing medical treatment to injured animals. Efforts to reduce human-wildlife conflict are being pursued at multiple levels, including the constitution of Quick Response Teams (QRTs) to address immediate conflict situations. Explaining the underlying ecological dynamics, Dr. Saket Badola, Director of Corbett Tiger Reserve, told the TNIE, The tiger naturally does not allow any other animal to maintain its dominance in the forests. Since the tiger is much stronger, the leopard does not go for conflict. Wildlife expert and IFS officer, Parag Madhukar Dhakate, further elaborated, Tigers assert their authority in their territories, intimidating leopards and compelling them to vacate the area. As a result, the leopard population in wildlife reserves, such as Corbett and Rajaji, has noticeably declined, potentially pushing them into human-dominated landscapes and contributing to the higher conflict figures.
Cloudburst in Uttarakhand's Chamoli leaves 11 homes along Moksh Gad on brink of collapse
DEHRADUN: A devastating cloudburst in Chamoli district's Nandanagar block triggered massive flash floods in the wee hours of Tuesday, causing widespread destruction. One cowshed was destroyed and 11 residential buildings have been left on the brink of collapse as their foundations have been compromised. Agricultural crops in the area have also suffered extensive damage. It all happened so fast. One moment we were in our homes, the next we were running for our lives, recounted Vijay Singh, a terrified local resident. We just grabbed what we could and fled, he added. According to the District Disaster Management Office, heavy rainfall caused the Sirpakh stream in Mok Malla's Bagad Tok area to swell, which led to an alarming rise in the water levels of the Moksh Gad, impacting Dhurma, Sera, and Mok Malla's Bagad Tok. The early morning incident prompted locals to abandon their houses and seek safety. Upon receiving information, District Magistrate Sandeep Tiwari dispatched an administrative team to the affected site. A team led by Sub-Divisional Magistrate R K Pandey conducted an on-site inspection. The administration's preliminary report confirmed that one cowshed in Dhurma village was completely damaged due to the surging Moksh Gad. Additionally, six residential buildings in Mok Malla's Bagad Tok, three in Dhurma, and two in Sera village are now vulnerable to river erosion. The administration has advised most of the affected villagers to relocate to safer areas and is currently assessing the extent of crop losses. Meanwhile, the heavy rainfall has also severely disrupted road connectivity in the region. The Sera-Mok Dhurma motor road is closed, the Nandanagar-Nandprayag motor road is blocked near Saitoli, and the Nandanagar-Bhenti motor road is obstructed at multiple points. Several other link roads in the area also remain impassable.
Rottweiler attack in Dehradun: Elderly woman critically injured, dog owner detained
In Rajpur, Dehradun, a 75-year-old woman was critically injured by two Rottweilers while on her morning walk. Police have arrested the dog owner, Nafees, who lacked the required license for keeping dangerous breeds and allegedly failed to assist the victim during the attack. Authorities are now enforcing stricter regulations on owning banned dog breeds following this incident.
Rottweilers Bit Her Face, Legs, Ear, Arm, Bone Crushed: Dehradun Woman, 75, Battles For Life
We have thoroughly cleaned and operated on her left arm, but the risk of infection remains high, said Dr Yash Mohan, a senior orthopaedic specialist
Delhi-Dehradun Expressway promises to transform connectivity for commuters, tourists, and businesses across Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, and Uttarakhand.
Dehradun Diary | CM goes on jungle safari for tourism boost
CM Pushkar Singh Dhami recently enjoyed a thrilling jungle safari at Corbett National Park, experiencing the regions rich biodiversity. The CM commented on the states burgeoning tourism sector, saying Our continuous efforts are giving new recognition to jungle safari tourism in Uttarakhand, attracting tourists globally and strengthening the tourism-based economy, creating self-employment opportunities. During his visit, over 1,000 trees were planted under the Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam campaign. The CM also held discussions with Dr Saket Badola, Director of Corbett Tiger Reserve. Firefighters ignite the fire of victory at games Firefighters ignite the fire of victory at World Police and Fire Games Uttarakhand firefighters delivered a stellar performance at the World Police and Fire Games 2025 in Birmingham, USA, securing an impressive 9 medals for India. This marks their first participation, showcasing exceptional courage and discipline on the global stage. Dimple Rawat won 6 medals, emerging as the star performer from among the four-member team, out of which 3 were women. Her haul included two gold, one silver, and one bronze in individual and mixed-team stair run events, alongside two team medals. The CM lauded their dedication. Student stress linked to potential joblessness? During a virtual workshop on Saturday, Dr Kanchan Negi, an international educationist, has highlighted the impact of escalating student mental health crisis on careers. As guest of honour, Dr Negi shed light on hidden struggles like performance pressure, digital overload, and fear of failure that college students often mask. She stressed that mental health must be given equal institutional priority. Dr Negi cited Uttarakhand Heritage School of Media And Advanced Studies as an example of a focus-driven, skill-based learning model addressing these challenges, and urged educators to adopt more humane teaching methods. Narendra sethi Our correspondent in Uttarakhand narendrasethi@newindianexpress.com
Air passenger traffic across India soars by 6.6% in opening months of fiscal 2025-26
NEW DELHI: The total passenger traffic across airports in India has grown by 6.6% in the first two months of this financial year, compared to the corresponding period last year, reveals the Airports Authority of India (AAI). Srinagar and Amritsar airports, which were closed for some weeks due to the India-Pakistan conflict following the Pahalgam terror attack on April 22 this year, have reported a steep decline on the patronage front. AAI data reveals that 71.14 million passengers travelled during April-May of 2025 as compared to 66.73 million in the period in 2024. International traffic soared by 8.8% in the period compared with 13.4 million travellers compared to 12.31 million earlier. Domestic traffic has recorded a 6.1% growth with 57.74 million against the previous 66.73 million. A total of 5.54 crore Air Traffic Movement Movements (Arrivals and Departures) have been recorded in April-May 2025, up by 6.5% over the same period last year, the data shows. The freight traffic too has boomed with an 8.1% increase in April and May of 2025 over the previous year by transporting 643.47 metric tonnes. Airports which have been severely impacted due to Indo-Pak tensions were on expected lines - Srinagar and Amritsar. Passenger traffic in Srinagar dipped by a whopping 67.1% in the two months. Srinagar International Airport had a patronage of just 1,61,214 flyers as compared to 4,89,561 earlier. The Sri Guru Ramdas Ji airport in Amritsar too followed suit with 1,56,288 passengers in the first two months of this fiscal as compared to 2,75,837 last year. The top three airports in passenger traffic in the country continue to be Delhi (93,89,191 flyers), Mumbai (65,68,271) and Bengaluru (64,43,050). The KIA airport in Bengaluru continues its non-stop growth trajectory by recording a 6.7% growth over its performance in April-May 2024. However, Delhi has dipped by 1.2% and Mumbai by 0.5% during the compared period. Airports which have done significantly well over their past performance in the two-month period compared in succeeding years are Bhubaneshwar (25.5% over previous period), Tirupati (49.2%), Varanasi (25.8%) Kannur (33.2%), Patna (32.1%), Agra (77.8) and Agati (42.5%), Durgapur (37%), Bhuj (48.6), Cudappah (58.8%), Dharbanga (52.2%), Dehradun (29.1%), Cooch Behar (38.4%), Dimapur (27.4%), Gorakhpur (995) and Hubballi (37.1%), Jabalpur (92.2%), Jaisalmer (86.4%), Kanpur (57%) and Kishangarh (38.9%), Rajahmundry (46.3%) Nanded (28.3%) Kurnool (34.3%) and Shivamogga (85.5%)
Authorities Plan Pre-Registration System For Tourists Visiting Mussoorie in Peak Season
Dehradun administration plans a pre-registration system to manage Mussoorie's peak season traffic. Travellers must register before going to the hill station.
CA allegedly ran Rs 750 crore fake loan app scam using shell firms, Chinese links
DEHRADUN: In a significant breakthrough against inter-state cybercrime, Abhishek Agarwal, a Chartered Accountant and the alleged mastermind behind a massive fake loan app scam, was arrested by the cyber wing of Uttarakhand Police on Saturday at Delhis Indira Gandhi International (IGI) Airport. Police sources revealed Agarwal was arrested under a Look Out Circular (LOC) issued against him. His arrest has exposed a sprawling network that allegedly siphoned off over Rs 750 crore through illicit transactions. Investigations indicate Agarwal established a sophisticated web of approximately 35 to 40 shell companies to facilitate the fraud. Of these, 13 were registered in his own name, while 28 were in his wifes name. Several entities also listed Chinese nationals as co-directors, highlighting an international dimension to the racket. Suspicious transactions exceeding Rs 750 crore have been identified in accounts linked to these companies, which are now under detailed scrutiny. The syndicate allegedly operated by luring unsuspecting individuals with promises of quick and easy loans through more than 15 fraudulent mobile applications, including 'Insta Loan,' 'Maxi Loan,' 'KK Cash,' 'RupeeGo,' and 'Lendkar.' Once victims installed these apps, the fraudsters gained unauthorised access to their mobile devices, stealing sensitive personal data such as gallery photos, contacts, and other private information. Police claimed this stolen data was then used for blackmail and intimidation. Victims were subjected to threats of photo morphing and public shaming if they failed to pay exorbitant interest rates, penalties, and fines, leading to immense mental harassment and financial extortion. Authorities revealed the genesis of this expansive fraud network dates back to 201920, when Agarwal allegedly facilitated the entry of Chinese nationals into India to kickstart the operation. He himself travelled to Shanghai and Shenzhen in 2019, indicating deep international ties. This arrest follows previous significant actions in the same case. These include the apprehension of Ankur Dhingra, another alleged mastermind operating fake loan apps via Hector Lendkaro Pvt. Ltd., from Gurugram. In 2023, another resident of Gurugram was arrested, and a joint STF/Cyber team raided a call centre in Aurangabad, Maharashtra, recovering a Simbox and other crucial evidence. Upon his arrest, authorities recovered a mobile phone, a passport, Thai and Indian currency, a power bank, digital devices, rings, and an Apple Watch from Agarwal. He was wanted in connection with numerous cases across multiple states. Speaking to The New Indian Express , STFs Senior Superintendent of Police Navneet Singh said, This ongoing investigation, initiated in December 2022, targets organised national-level fraud through various fake loan apps, aiming to curb the harassment and illegal extortion faced by citizens across India. Uttarakhands Director General of Police (DGP) Deepam Seth stated, Uttarakhand is committed to making the state crime-free and will strive to curb cybercrime incidents more rigorously in the coming times.
DEHRADUN: Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami swapped his official duties for the humble task of a farmer on Saturday, personally participating in paddy sowing on his private farmland in Nagra Terai, Khatima. The rare gesture was a powerful tribute to the unwavering hard work, sacrifice, and dedication of the state's farming community. Embracing traditional agricultural practices, CM Dhami offered fervent prayers to Bhumiyan Devta (the deity of land), Lord Indra (God of rains), and Meghraj (God of clouds). These invocations were accompanied by the melodious, culturally significant strains of the Hudkiya Baul, a folk instrument historically played in Uttarakhand's farmlands to seek blessings for a bountiful harvest. The Chief Minister's hands-on involvement in the sowing activity, coupled with his visible deep cultural connect with the farming community, generated overwhelming enthusiasm among local residents. It was truly inspiring to see our Chief Minister working alongside us, getting his hands dirty. It shows he understands our struggles, remarked Rajkishore, a local farmer. Observers noted that this inspirational initiative powerfully underscores the state governments unwavering commitment to recognizing and honouring the pivotal role farmers play in Uttarakhands economy.
Kailash Mansarovar yatra begins: CM Dhami hails faster, safer pilgrimage route
DEHRADUN: The revered Kailash Mansarovar Yatra officially commenced on Saturday, with Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami flagging off the first batch of pilgrims from the Tourist Rest House in Tanakpur. Interacting with pilgrims hailing from 11 different states, Chief Minister Dhami described undertaking the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra as a are fortune. He emphasised that the journey is not merely a religious ritual but a journey of spiritual and inner awakening, adding that pilgrims embarking on this unique expedition carry with them not just memories of the journey but also a profound sense of devotion. Highlighting the spiritual essence of the state, the Chief Minister affirmed, Every particle of this sacred land resonates with the presence of Lord Shiva. CM Dhami also lauded the transformative vision of Prime Minister Narendra Modi in making the pilgrimage more accessible. This pilgrimage is no longer confined to a geographical route; under the visionary leadership and firm resolve of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, it has now become a powerful medium to transcend borders and experience the divine presence of Lord Shiva, he stated. What once took seven days or more can now be accomplished within a few hours. Reaffirming his governments commitment, CM Dhami stated that Uttarakhand is fully dedicated to ensuring the journey remains smooth, safe, and comfortable. He detailed that comprehensive arrangements for health care, accommodation, meals, security, and other essential facilities have been strengthened at every halt to ensure a hassle-free experience for the pilgrims. The Chief Minister concluded by praying to Lord Bholenath for a successful, auspicious, and safe journey for all devotees. Pilgrims, in turn, expressed their profound gratitude for the warmth and hospitality extended by the people of Champawat. They also lauded the Uttarakhand governments exceptional arrangements, which they said made their journey memorable and secure from the outset.
Uttarakhand panchayat polls: From IPS officers to Colonels, educated elite reshape rural leadership
DEHRADUN: Uttarakhand's upcoming panchayat elections are witnessing a significant paradigm shift, with highly qualified professionals -- from retired IPS officers and army colonels to teachers and IT specialists -- entering the fray, signalling a new era for rural governance. Voting for the two-phase polls is set to begin on July 24. Gone are the days when a village head was rarely educated beyond basic schooling. This election cycle sees a remarkable influx of candidates with impressive credentials, eager to serve their communities and test their fortunes in the grassroots democratic process. This ew craze, as local observers describe it, is attracting widespread attention across the Himalayan state. Amidst the usual political manoeuvring, two small villages in Uttarakhand Gunji in Kumaon and Birgan in Garhwal have set inspiring precedents. Their residents have unanimously chosen leaders whose lives exemplify service and dedication, completely bypassing the electoral process. In Gunji, villagers elected retired IPS officer and former Inspector General (Jails) Vimla Gusain unopposed. Similarly, in Birgan, Pauri district, retired Indian Army Colonel Yashpal Singh Negi was chosen as the Gram Pradhan without contest. This is not just a testament to rural unity and wisdom in democracy, but it also shows that people are now bringing forward capable and selfless leadership to change the direction and condition of their villages, Bhriguram, a local villager noted. According to election office sources, under Section 53(2) of the Representation of the People Act, 1951, a candidate is declared elected unopposed if they are the sole nominee. This tradition has been observed in various parts of the State before, particularly in tribal areas like Jaunsar-Bawar. A village in Nainital district has also consistently chosen its Gram Pradhan unopposed for years, with one past election even decided by a coin toss. Vimla Gusain, a native of Gunji village in Pithoragarh district, recently retired from police service and holds the distinction of being Uttarakhand's first woman Jail Superintendent. Colonel Yashpal Singh Negi, from Birgan village in Pauri Garhwal's Bironkhal block, returned to his village after three decades of distinguished service in the army. The ongoing nomination process for panchayat elections continues to reveal a diverse pool of highly qualified individuals vying for positions ranging from Gram Pradhan to Block Development Committee members and District Panchayat members. Kavita Arya, a private school teacher, resigned from her job to contest for Gram Pradhan from Basani village in Haldwani. Diksha Bisht and Vaishali Negi, both B.Ed graduates from Gaulapar, are also in the race for Gram Pradhan. Meena Pandey, who previously assisted her husband in business and politics, now dreams of becoming the Block Pramukh of Haldwani, confident her qualifications will benefit the local populace. Neelu Negi, a Political Science postgraduate who runs a SHG, is actively campaigning, aiming to make a significant impact in her area.
Dhami flags off bus carrying first batch of Kailash-Mansarovar pilgrims
DEHRADUN, July 5: Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami on Saturday flagged off a bus carrying the first batch of Kailash-Mansarovar pilgrims from 11 states at the Tanakpur tourist rest house in Champawat district. Welcoming the pilgrims, Dhami gifted them souvenirs reflecting Uttarakhands cultural heritage and noted that they were privileged to have the opportunity to undertake the pilgrimage. Not everyone gets the privilege of visiting Kailash-Mansarovar. It is not just a religious journey but a path to spiritual awakening, [] The post Dhami flags off bus carrying first batch of Kailash-Mansarovar pilgrims appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
India's aviation set to soar: Minister Rammohan Naidu eyes untapped potential
DEHRADUN: Union Minister of Civil Aviation, Kinjarappu Rammohan Naidu, on Friday called for unlocking the vast potential of the aviation sector in the country while speaking at the Northern Region Ministers' Conference on Civil Aviation 2025, organised by the Ministry of Civil Aviation, Government of India, in Dehradun. Through this strategic initiative, we aim to identify regional opportunities and unlock the vast potential of Tier II and Tier III cities, Naidu stated. He also highlighted the sector's remarkable expansion, noting, In just 10 years, we have added 88 new airports nearly one new airport every 40 days. We've also added 60 additional flights every hour. He underscored that under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership, flying in India is now more accessible, more available and more affordable, reiterating the Ministrys commitment to collaborative, state-specific strategies for inclusive aviation growth. Gracing the inaugural function as Chief Guest, Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami underscored aviation's pivotal role in enhancing regional connectivity, boosting tourism, and fostering socio-economic development within the State. He commended the sector's phenomenal growth and stressed the paramount importance of ensuring safety in aviation operations, particularly helicopter services in Uttarakhand's challenging hilly terrain. The conference also saw the attendance of other key state ministers, including Gautam Kumar Dak (Rajasthan), Vipul Goel (Haryana), Subodh Uniyal (Uttarakhand), Suresh Kumar Khanna (Uttar Pradesh), and Raghubir Singh Bali (Himachal Pradesh). Senior officials from the Ministry of Civil Aviation, including Secretary Samir Kumar Sinha, DGCA DG Fiaz Ahmed Kidwai, AAI Chairman Vipin Kumar, and BCAS DG Rajesh Nirwan, were also present. Discussions focused on actionable strategies to strengthen connectivity, infrastructure, and investment across Northern Indias aviation landscape. Following detailed presentations by the Ministry on opportunities for states, one-on-one interactions were held between state government teams and the Ministry delegation led by Union Minister Naidu. The high-profile event saw participation from Ministers and senior officials representing Rajasthan, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh, Punjab, Ladakh, and Chandigarh, alongside over 100 aviation industry players.
Uttarakhand sacks 234 doctors for bond violation, prolonged absence; recovery proceedings initiated
DEHRADUN: The Uttarakhand government has dismissed 234 doctors for prolonged absenteeism and blatant violation of their bond agreements. The action has sent shockwaves through the state's health department, which is also poised to initiate recovery proceedings against these bond-bound doctors. The Health Department has already begun the process of forwarding the list of these 234 doctors to the National Medical Council. Officials estimate that a staggering sum of up to Rs 2 crore could be recovered from the doctors as part of their bond obligations. Uttarakhand Health Minister Dr. Dhan Singh Rawat weighed in on the drastic step. Many doctors completed their MBBS studies in the state at subsidized fees but subsequently violated the terms of their bond agreements, Rawat told TNIE . Around 234 such doctors have been identified. These doctors have reportedly been absent from duty for extended periods without any official notification, leading to their dismissal. Rawat further elaborated on the terms of the agreement. As per the agreement with their respective medical colleges, these doctors were mandated to serve in the state's hilly districts for a minimum of five years upon graduating with their MBBS, he explained. The bond stipulated that failure to comply would require them to deposit a pre-determined sum and obtain a No Objection Certificate before pursuing opportunities outside the state or entering private practice. Despite these clear terms, 234 doctors assigned to the state's remote mountainous regions have remained absent from their posts without authorisation. This constitutes a clear breach of bond conditions and an act of gross indiscipline, the minister said. Sources within the Health Department revealed the breakdown of the dismissed doctors as approximately 56 from Doon Medical College, 95 from Haldwani Medical College, and 83 from Srinagar Medical College. Each of these doctors had signed a bond during their MBBS admission, committing to five years of service in the state's hilly terrain. Their original documents and medical certificates are reportedly still held by their respective colleges. Taking a serious view of the matter, the state government has directed the Director of Medical Education to initiate the recovery of bond amounts from all absent doctors, as per the terms of their agreements. In a related development, the Health Secretary has been instructed to seek explanations from Chief Medical Officers of the districts where these doctors were posted, as well as the in-charge officers of the respective hospitals. The inquiry aims to ascertain why local authorities failed to initiate timely action against the absent medical professionals. The dismissed doctors were assigned across various districts, with the highest numbers in Chamoli (46), Nainital (31), Tehri Garhwal (29), Pauri Garhwal (26), Uttarkashi (25), and Pithoragarh (25). Other affected districts include Almora (16), Rudraprayag (14), Champawat (11), Bageshwar (10), and even one doctor from Dehradun district who remains untraceable.
Two IAF personnel drown while bathing in lake near Bhimtal in Uttarakhand
DEHRADUN: Two Indian Air Force (IAF) personnel, part of an eight-member group on a trip from Punjab, tragically drowned while bathing in a lake near Bhimtal, Nainital district, Uttarakhand, on Thursday. Their insistence on taking a dip in the scenic yet treacherous waters led to the fatal incident. According to police sources, two IAF personnel from Pathankot, Punjab, along with six other friends, had arrived in Nainital on Wednesday. They were staying at a hotel in Sundarkhal, Dhari, with a pre-scheduled plan of enjoying the region's natural beauty. Bhimtal's Police Circle Officer, Pramod Sah told the TNIE , On Thursday, the group of eight friends went to Musatal, located between Parital in Belwagaon, Chafi, Bhimtal. Upon reaching Musatal, Sourabh Singh Nayal, Prince Yadav, Sahil, and Vijender decided to bathe and entered the lake without much thought. He continued, While bathing, Prince Yadav and Sahil went into deeper waters and began to drown. Sourabh and Vijender made strenuous efforts to save them, but their attempts were in vain. Following the death of their two friends, Sourabh, Vijender, and four other female friends are inconsolable, weeping uncontrollably. The trip now holds only bitter and heart-wrenching memories for the accompanying personnel. Local eyewitnesses corroborated that the two men lost their lives due to their insistence on bathing. Sub Divisional Magistrate K.N. Goswami and Police Circle Officer Pramod Sah promptly arrived at the scene, gathered full details of the accident, and initiated immediate relief operations. Relatives accompanying the deceased informed the police that they were staying at the Sundarkhal hotel. Police Circle Officer Sah reiterated that warning boards are installed by the police, and action is taken against those entering rivers and lakes. He stated that strict action would be taken against anyone found bathing in the area.
DEHRADUN: The vital Kedarnath Dham Yatra, a backbone of Uttarakhand's economy, has been temporarily suspended following a massive landslide near Sonprayag in Rudraprayag district. The decision was made on Thursday after heavy rainfall triggered a significant landslide at Munkatia, completely blocking the road to the revered Himalayan temple. Police sources confirmed that the Munkatia sliding zone was inundated with a large volume of debris and stones, rendering the route impassable and forcing authorities to halt the pilgrimage. Some pilgrims returning from Gaurikund were trapped in the sliding zone, but SDRF personnel rescued them and brought them safely to Sonprayag, said Arpan Yaduvanshi, Commandant of the State Disaster Response Force. As a precautionary measure, traffic on this route has been stopped for now. Commandant Yaduvanshi further confirmed the swift rescue operation: Around 40 pilgrims stranded in the Sonprayag landslide area while returning from Shri Kedarnath Dham were safely evacuated by SDRF. More than 40 pilgrims had been stranded since approximately 10 PM last night after debris suddenly fell near Sonprayag on the way from Kedarnath Dham. Meanwhile, the Yamunotri Highway remains closed beyond Silai Band for the fourth consecutive day following a cloudburst incident. While pedestrian movement is possible, it remains precarious due to ongoing risks. On Wednesday, approximately 254 passengers stranded between Syanchatti and Jankichatti were safely evacuated. Search and rescue operations are ongoing, with NDRF utilizing sniffer dogs to locate seven people who are still missing after the incident. The cloudburst near Silai Band and the overflowing drain at Ojri washed away a 20 to 25-meter section of the Yamunotri Highway. Seven individuals were swept away and went missing in the powerful current of debris and water at Silai Band. NDRF, SDRF, Police, and ITBP personnel are actively involved in the search for the missing and the safe evacuation of pilgrims. Around 263 pedestrians were safely evacuated and transported to Barkot by vehicles. The food supply department has arranged meals for stranded pilgrims at various locations, District Disaster Management Officer Nand Kishore Joshi said. While the National Highway department is undertaking repair work at Silai Band, the presence of hard rock near Ojri is posing significant challenges. In a separate incident highlighting the widespread impact of the monsoon, a massive landslide occurred near Ummatta in Karnaprayag. Around 1 AM, debris from the hillside descended directly into a hotel located along the highway. Fortunately, the hotel owner's family and staff managed to escape to safety. However, a taxi passing by at the time was buried under the debris.
Nainital HC sounds alarm on teen marriages, orders awareness drive
DEHRADUN: The Uttarakhand High Court has expressed deep concern over the rising number of adolescents entering into marriages and subsequently seeking court protection. The court deems the trend alarming and fraught with serious consequences, including potential charges under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act. The court had previously summoned Uttrakhand's Secretary for Child Rights Welfare, Chandresh Yadav, who appeared before the bench on Thursday. During the proceedings, the court directed Secretary Chandresh Kumar to prepare and present a comprehensive plan within two weeks. This plan aims to raise public awareness about the seriousness of the POCSO Act and address the growing issue of underage unions. The plan also focusses at sensitising parents especially, about the gravity of the POCSO Act, thereby enabling them to guide their children effectively. A division bench of the Nainital High Court, comprising Chief Justice G. Narendar and Justice Alok Mehra, observed during the hearing of one such case, stating, This trend is alarming and needs attention. The specific matter before the court involved a 19-year-old youth who, after marrying a girl of his age, sought court protection from her family. The bench noted with concern the increasing number of such cases where petitioners are often adolescents. While acknowledging the legal right to choose one's life partner, the court underscored that the growing tendency of marriages among minors makes it difficult for them to develop a sense of responsibility at such a young age. The court further highlighted grim scenarios where such marriages lead to severe repercussions. It pointed to instances where girls, later claimed by their parents to be minors, resulted in severe punishment for the young man under the POCSO Act, often leaving the married girl alone and vulnerable. In many cases, the court observed, he girl even became a mother after marriage, only for the husband to be jailed under POCSO, or the couple separated after maturity, leaving the child destitute. Such situations also encourage other crimes. The court also mandated that these awareness programs be implemented at the grassroots level through the Education Department, Rural Development Departments, Anganwadis, local administration, and para-legal volunteers in sensitive areas. It further emphasised the use of creative methods like plays and short films to effectively sensitise young adults about the issue. The next hearing in the matter will take place after the submission of the proposed plan.
Uttarakhand Govt. to force closure of food shops on Kanwar Yatra routes that dont display identity
DEHRADUN, July 2 : Uttarakhand government has said that it will shut down and charge a penalty of upto Rs 2 lakh on shops that lie on the Kanwar Yatra route and fail to display names of their owners and licence enroute Kanwar Yatra. The Yatra will be starting from July 11 onwards, state Food and Drugs Administration (FDA) issued guidelines directing shops lying on the route of the Yatra routes to make their identities public. Letter issued on behalf [] The post Uttarakhand Govt. to force closure of food shops on Kanwar Yatra routes that dont display identity appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM) chief Asaduddin Owaisi and former Samajwadi Party MP S T Hasan on Wednesday strongly condemned the alleged religious profiling of dhaba and eatery owners along the Kanwar Yatra route in parts of Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand. Owaisi reacted sharply to media reports suggesting that vigilante groups allegedly asked some dhaba owners on the Delhi-Dehradun highway to open their pants to verify their religion. There are several hotels near Muzaffarnagar highway that have been running for years. I fail to understand how there were no issues in these places 10 years ago. How was the Kanwar Yatra conducted peacefully here earlier? Why is all this happening now? Owaisi asked. Who are these vigilante groups asking hotel owners to open their pants? Are they running the government, or is the administration in charge? Police should arrest them, he said. #WATCH | Hyderabad, Telangana: On some media reports of Dhaba owners on the Kanwar route at Delhi-Dehradun highway asked to open their pants to verify their religion, AIMIM chief Asaduddin Owaisi, says There are several hotels near Muzaffarnagar highway running for several pic.twitter.com/TP4FYwOmoT ANI (@ANI) July 2, 2025 Former Samajwadi Party MP S T Hasan also condemned the alleged religious profiling of eatery owners along the Kanwar Yatra route in Uttarakhand by some Hindu outfits, calling the act a form of terrorism. The remarks came amid reports that members of certain Hindu organisations were allegedly checking the identities of eatery owners and staff, and targeting individuals suspected to be Muslims in several Uttarakhand cities. Purported videos circulating on social media reportedly showed volunteers coercing people to prove their religious identity. Reacting sharply, the BJP accused the opposition party of indulging in religious appeasement, but asserted that nobody has the right to take the law into their hands. Hasan, who hails from Uttar Pradesh's Moradabad, told news agency PTI, Asking hotel staff and local vendors to reveal their names and forcing them to undress to identify their religion is no different from what terrorists did in Pahalgam. This, too, is a form of terrorism. He alleged that such incidents are taking place openly while the BJP government in Uttarakhand was turning a blind eye. It seems the state government is silently supporting these acts. In a secular country like India, this kind of behaviour is shameful. It should be stopped, Hasan said. Hasan called for immediate intervention by the central and state governments to ensure that such communal practices are checked. Reacting to the SP leader's statement, BJP spokesperson Rakesh Tripathi said, People taking the law into their own hands is wrong, but drawing comparisons with the Pahalgam terrorists is extremely objectionable. In Pahalgam, terrorists killed people after ensuring their identity... If someone asks for the identity to check for pure vegetarian food in Sawan, how can it be compared with terrorists? Samajwadi Party can stoop to any level for religious appeasement, he said. The Uttarakhand government has made it mandatory for eateries, including food carts, on the Kanwar Yatra route to prominently display their food licences or registration certificates. Notably, similar directives were issued by the governments of Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh, and some other states in July last year as well, which the Supreme Court subsequently stayed . In Uttar Pradesh's Muzaffarnagar, police have summoned several activists associated with Swami Yashveer Maharaj over an incident involving the unauthorised verification of identities of eatery owners along the Kanwar yatra route, officials said. The Kanwar Yatra is an annual pilgrimage during the Hindu month of Shravan, drawing thousands of devotees. (With inputs from PTI, ANI)
Asaduddin Owaisi has condemned alleged incidents during the Kanwar Yatra where dhaba owners on the Delhi-Dehradun highway were reportedly asked to prove their religion. Owaisi questioned the sudden emergence of such issues, highlighting the peaceful operation of hotels in the area for years. He urged authorities to take action against vigilante groups, raising concerns about rising communal tension.
Truck overturns, killing three Kanwar pilgrims in Uttarakhand
DEHRADUN: A truck with Kanwar pilgrims overturned on the Rishikesh-Gangotri Highway in Tehri district on Wednesday, claiming the lives of three individuals and injuring 16 others. According to the sources at the district disaster management authority, the incident occurred between Jajal and Fakot, casting a pall over the ongoing pilgrimage as rescue operations were immediately launched. District Disaster Management Officer Brijesh Bhatt confirmed the fatalities, stating that one person died on the spot, while two others were found trapped beneath the overturned vehicle. The truck was carrying a total of 19 Kanwar pilgrims who were en route from Rishikesh to Gangotri to collect holy water, a significant ritual in the annual Kanwar Yatra. Of the 16 injured, four critically wounded pilgrims have been referred to AIIMS Rishikesh for advanced medical care. Eight others are currently receiving treatment at the Narendra Nagar Community Health Centre, while one individual is being treated at the Primary Health Centre in Fakot. Upon receiving news of the accident, relief and rescue operations were immediately launched by local authorities and emergency services. According to the Tehri District Magistrate, the truck lost control and overturned approximately two kilometres ahead of Khaadi. Emergency services, including the vital 108 ambulance service, were roped in to transport the injured to various hospitals. Our teams responded swiftly to the scene to provide immediate assistance and transport the injured for medical treatment, a district official stated, highlighting the rapid coordination efforts. Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami expressed profound sorrow over the tragic accident. In a statement released shortly after the incident, he directed officials to ensure that the injured pilgrims receive immediate and the best possible medical facilities. The Chief Minister Dhami emphasised that the administration is conducting relief and rescue operations on a war footing to safely evacuate all passengers and provide comprehensive support to those affected in this challenging time. Investigations into the exact cause of the accident are underway.
Hyatt Regency Dehradun Appoints Chef Vikram as Chef de Cuisine
Globally seasoned chef to elevate resorts culinary identity through a fusion of European elegance and Uttarakhands local flavours
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Uttarakhand: ID mandatory for food vendors along Kanwar yatra route; offenders to be fined Rs 2 lakh
DEHRADUN: The Uttarakhand government has made it mandatory for all food vendors to display their photo ID card and their shop's license number in an effort to ensure safety and purity of food for the thousands of devotees. This will apply to all food outlets serving pilgrims, from large shops to small stalls. Authorities have warned of severe penalties for those who fail to comply. Violators caught operating without displaying the required identification could face hefty fines of up to Rs 2 lakh. Dr. R. Rajesh Kumar, Health Secretary and Commissioner of the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), has launched a special campaign against food adulteration. He emphasised that the ID rule is a key part of ensuring accountability for food quality. Every food business operator on the yatra routes including small vendors, hawkers, and street food stalls must now display their license or registration certificate along with a clear photo identity card. Failure to show this identification will lead to immediate action under the Food Safety Act, resulting in the Rs 2 lakh fine. Speaking to TNIE , Dr. Kumar stated, There will be no compromise on the quality of food served during the Kanwar Yatra. Knowing the identity of the person serving the food is crucial for trust and safety. Adding to this, Tajbar Singh Jaggi, Additional Commissioner of Food Safety and Drug Administration, warned, Legal action will be taken against anyone operating a food business without a proper license or failing to display their identity as required. The government is also using Information, Education, and Communication (IEC) methods to raise awareness among both the public and operators. This includes educating them on the importance of checking vendor identity, identifying pure food, understanding food regulations, and knowing consumer rights. Banners, posters, pamphlets, and social media are being utilised for this outreach. Notably, similar directives were issued by the governments of Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh, and some other states in July last year as well, which the Supreme Court subsequently stayed . In July 2024, a bench of Supreme Court Justices Hrishikesh Roy and S.V.N. Bhatti issued notices to Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Uttarakhand, and other states where the Kanwar Yatra is observed. The Court, in its order, had clarified: Food vendors, street hawkers, etc., can be asked to display the type of food being served to Kanwariyas, but they should not be compelled to disclose their names, the bench stated.
DEHRADUN: Uttarakhand is battling a severe monsoon crisis with relentless rains triggering landslides, road closures, and multiple rescue operations. An orange alert has been issued for seven districts, while authorities search for 15 people missing in separate rain-related incidents. The incessant downpour and subsequent landslides are making rescue and recovery operations incredibly difficult. Rescue operations are underway to locate 15 individuals who went missing in two separate incidents. A Tempo Traveller plunged into the Alaknanda River last week, claiming three lives, and seven individuals are still untraceable. In a separate incident near Silai Band, six labourers went missing after a road was completely washed away by surging waters. The Rishikesh-Yamunotri National Highway in Uttarkashi has been entirely washed away near Silai Band and Aujhari, bringing all vehicular movement to a halt. The Kalsi-Chakrata State Highway in Dehradun district is also closed due to a massive debris slide. However, several key routes remain open, including the Rishikesh-Gangotri National Highway and the Rishikesh-Badrinath and Joshimath-Malari-Niti National Highways. The scale of disruption is significant, with a staggering number of roads closed across various districts due to debris. These include 15 roads in Uttarkashi, 11 in Tehri, nine in Rudraprayag, five in Pithoragarh, 48 in Pauri, two in Nainital, nine in Dehradun, 15 in Champawat, 21 in Chamoli, 16 in Bageshwar, and two in Almora district. District Magistrate Prashant Arya has taken charge, conducting an on-site inspection of the affected area and issuing urgent directives to joint teams from NDRF, SDRF, ITBP, Police, and the Revenue Department to intensify search and rescue efforts. He has also directed the Irrigation Department to expedite work on draining water from a lake forming in the Yamuna River. The immediate focus remains on the tragic incident that occurred late Saturday night, which affected 29 labourers . Of these, 20 labourers have been safely rescued, and three deaths have been confirmed. A continuous and desperate search is underway for the remaining six missing labourers. The situation remains critical, and authorities are working tirelessly to rescue those affected and restore normalcy to the region.
Explanation Sought From Dehradun DM For Breach Of Protocol For Speaker Om Birla
The state government is treating this matter very seriously: Department official
DEHRADUN: The re-election of Mahendra Bhatt as the President of the Bharatiya Janata Party's Uttarakhand unit has sent ripples of surprise and concern not only among BJP leaders who aspired for the coveted post but also within the opposition Congress. Mahendra Bhatts unanimous re-election came after he was the sole candidate to file nominations for the top party post in the state. The formal announcement of Bhatt's re-election, alongside the selection of members for the party's National Council, was made on Tuesday during the Provincial Council meeting by Central Election Officer Harsh Malhotra. Confirming the details, State Election Officer Khajan Das told this newspaper, Former Chief Ministers Dr. Ramesh Pokhriyal Nishank, Trivendra Singh Rawat, and Tirath Singh Rawat, among eight senior leaders, have been elected to the National Council. The nomination process for both the state president and National Council members commenced on Monday at the state BJP office. Bhatt submitted his nomination papers for the president's post to State Election Officer Khajan Das in the presence of Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami, State In-charge Dushyant Kumar Gautam, and a host of other senior party functionaries. The Congress party has been particularly vocal in its criticism, denouncing Bhatt's continuous reappointment as a stark example of dictatorship rather than democracy within the saffron party. They assert that this move points towards an undeclared emergency looming over the party's internal functioning. Congress state spokesperson Garima Mahara Dasouni minced no words in her condemnation. Nominating only one candidate and repeating the same state president clearly indicates a severe lack of promising leadership within the BJP, Dasouni stated, elaborating on the party's stance. Garima further said, The nomination process for this election was conducted in a completely undemocratic manner, adding, There cannot be a bigger, more blatant mockery of BJP's 'one person one post' policy than this. She asserted that Bhatt's re-election had exposed the party's true colours. By repeating Bhatt, BJP's true face stands exposed before the people of the entire state, Garima alleged, questioning the integrity of the internal party election.
Fourteenth judge recuses from case involving whistleblower Sanjeev Chaturvedi
DEHRADUN: In a continuing setback for whistleblowers in India, a fourteenth judge has recused herself from a case involving Ramon Magsaysay Award-winning Indian Forest Service (IFS) officer Sanjeev Chaturvedi. Additional Chief Judicial Magistrate (ACJM) Neha Kushwaha of Nainital stepped aside from a criminal defamation case filed by Chaturvedi, citing personal reasons linked to familial connections. The case, filed in November 2023, concerns allegations by Chaturvedi that Central Administrative Tribunal (CAT) member Manish Garg used objectionable language against him in open court on October 16, 2023. ACJM Kushwaha stated that she is related to another CAT member, D.S. Mehra, who often visits her official residence a connection she deemed sufficient grounds for her recusal. The familial link gains further relevance as Mehras bench had, in October 2024, issued a criminal contempt notice against Chaturvedi for initiating the defamation case. In retaliation, Chaturvedi filed a contempt petition against Mehra in November 2024. Uttarakhand CAT bench issues contempt notices to Cabinet Secretary, two top officials in Sanjiv Chaturvedi case Chaturvedi, who was honoured in 2015 for his anti-corruption efforts, has seen an unusual number of judges withdraw from hearing his cases 14 in total across various judicial levels. This includes two Supreme Court justices, two judges of the Nainital High Court, the CAT Chairman, one trial court judge in Shimla, and seven CAT members from benches in Delhi and Allahabad. The trend of judicial recusals has intensified in recent years. In February 2025, CAT members Harwinder Kaur Oberoi and B. Anand recused themselves from a matter concerning Chaturvedis appraisal report without offering any explanation, also instructing the registry not to list future matters involving him before their bench. A similar step was taken in February 2024 by Uttarakhand High Court Justice Manoj Tiwari in cases related to Chaturvedis deputation. This pattern stretches back over a decade. In 2018, the Uttarakhand High Court directed that Chaturvedis service-related matters be heard exclusively by the Nainital Circuit Bench, penalising the Central Government Rs 25,000 a decision upheld by the Supreme Court. The High Court reaffirmed this in 2021, prompting another legal challenge by the Centre, now pending before a larger Supreme Court bench since March 2023. Earlier recusals include that of then-Supreme Court Justice Ranjan Gogoi in 2013 and Justice U.U. Lalit in 2016 from a petition filed by Chaturvedi seeking a CBI probe into alleged corruption by then Haryana Chief Minister Bhupinder Singh Hooda and other senior officials. Both stepped aside without citing reasons. The frequency and opacity of these recusals continue to raise concerns about judicial impartiality and access to justice for whistleblowers in India.
Three killed, six missing after cloudburst hits Uttarakhand
DEHRADUN: Uttarakhand is grappling with the aftermath of a devastating cloudburst that struck the Baligarh area on the Barkot-Yamunotri road early Sunday, sweeping away at least 20 labourers from an under-construction hotel site, killing at least three of them. The rescue teams have so far managed to save 11 of the labourers, and the other six are still missing . The State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) recovered one body from the debris, and the police retrieved two bodies at a distance of 18 kilometres. The natural calamity has not only caused significant human loss but also severely impacted critical infrastructure. A crucial 10-meter stretch of the Yamunotri Highway has been completely washed away, effectively cutting off connectivity to the site of pilgrimage here. In response to the escalating crisis, the state government has taken the unprecedented step of suspending the Char Dham Yatra for the next 24 hours. Garhwal Division Commissioner Vinay Shankar Pandey confirmed the decision, adding, As a precautionary measure, I have given instructions to the police and administration officials to stop the pilgrims in Haridwar, Rishikesh, Srinagar, Rudraprayag, Sonprayag, and Vikasnagar. The mountainous districts of Uttarakhand have been experiencing relentless, heavy rainfall since Saturday night, leading to an alarming rise in the water levels of major rivers. The Mandakini and Alaknanda rivers, which pass through the Badrinath and Kedarnath regions, are now flowing above the danger mark. SDRF Commandant Arpan Yaduvanshi stated, Police in both districts are appealing to people living on riverbanks to move to safer locations. SDRF units are continuously monitoring potential high-risk areas and have urged pilgrims and others to refrain from approaching the riverbanks. Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami has taken immediate cognisance of the incident, expressing concern via a tweet about the missing labourers. Vinod Kumar Suman, Secretary of Disaster Management, shed light on the arduous rescue efforts, explaining, Police and Army personnel from nearby areas have initiated rescue operations. State and national disaster response teams have been deployed. Currently, 15 personnel are actively engaged, with approximately 45 more on the way. Due to the challenging terrain, heavy machinery cannot reach the site, and teams are conducting rescues manually. The labourers are either trapped in debris, stuck on rocks, or have been swept away into the river. Efforts to locate them are ongoing, he said.
Uttarakhand: Char Dham Yatra Suspended For 24 Hours Amid Heavy Rain Alert
Dehradun, Jun 29: The Char Dham Yatra has been suspended for the next 24 hours following a heavy rain alert, officials said on Sunday. Garhwal Division Commissioner Vinay Shankar Pandey said that the pilgrimage had been halted temporarily as a precautionary measure. I have given instructions to the police and administration officials to stop the pilgrims in Haridwar, Rishikesh, Srinagar, Rudraprayag, Sonprayag and Vikasnagar, Pandey told. The suspension followed a cloudburst that hit Silai Band on the Barkot-Yamunotri road in [] The post Uttarakhand: Char Dham Yatra Suspended For 24 Hours Amid Heavy Rain Alert appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
In a first, landlocked Arunachal officer to command frontline naval warship
NEW DELHI: Commander Ronie Chowpoo from Arunachal Pradeshs Namsai district has become the first officer from the state to command a frontline Indian naval warship in the Eastern Fleet, an official statement said on Saturday. His appointment marks an important milestone and serves as an inspiration to the youth of Arunachal Pradesh, the Navys statement said. Commander Chowpoo, a first-generation Naval officer, was commissioned into the executive branch of the Navy in 2008. A specialist in communication and electronic warfare, he has served on various frontline warships, including guided missile destroyers and frigates, the statement said. Over the course of his distinguished career, he has held key operational and staff appointments at Navy headquarters, fleet headquarters, and other strategic institutions, it added. An alumnus of Rashtriya Indian Military College (RIMC), Dehradun, and the prestigious National Defence Academy (NDA), Khadakwasla, Commander Chowpoos professional journey reflects determination and excellence. RIMC grooms youth from across the country to join the armed forces as officers. The Indian Navy has been organising outreach programmes to induct youth from across the country and Commander Chowpoo was also part of the outreach programme in the northeast. This newspaper reported earlier that a similar outreach exercise was conducted in the northeastern states in December 2022. During that programme, Navy personnel visited schools and conducted a 3,500-km-long motorcycle expedition. The events conducted in Ladakh as part of the Navys outreach programme included a public band performance by the Naval band, a football match between the Navy and the Ladakh UT teams, bike and car expeditions, and visits to various schools. Chowpoos rise from the Land of the Rising Sun to commanding a warship in the Indian Navys Eastern Fleet, also called the Sunrise Fleet, underscores a powerful story of perseverance and commitment, the Navys statement said. Congratulations have poured in for Commander Chowpoo and his family on this landmark accomplishment. The Eastern Fleet was born on November 1, 1971 as war seemed imminent and clouds of conflict hovered over the subcontinent. The Fleet played a decisive role in the maritime domain holding sway in the Bay of Bengal and strangulating then East Pakistan from the sea, contributing to the the surrender in Dacca and the capture of more than 90,000 prisoners of war.
BJP expels former Uttarakhand MLA Suresh Rathore for six years over public bigamy admission
DEHRADUN: The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has expelled its former MLA from Uttarakhand, Suresh Rathore, for a period of six years. The stern action follows Rathores public confession of marrying a second woman while his first wife is still alive. In a bold move, he held a joint press conference with his new spouse, Urmila Sanawar, where the couple openly announced their union. The incident, which unfolded in recent days, featured Rathore formerly the legislator for the Jwalapur Assembly constituency, and Sanawar jointly addressing the media. In an unprecedented admission, the duo declared themselves life partners. Rathores remark during the press conference, Urmila's love won, and I lost, quickly went viral, sparking widespread attention and criticism. The opposition Congress party swiftly seized the opportunity to attack the BJP, demanding immediate legal action against Rathore and his second wife under provisions of the Uniform Civil Code a contentious topic currently under debate in the state. This placed the ruling party on the back foot and prompted an internal review of Rathores conduct. Although Rathore later attempted to deflect the controversy by claiming that the event was part of a film shoot citing his new wife's association with the film industry, the BJPs disciplinary committee found his explanation unconvincing. On Saturday, the party officially announced his expulsion for six years. BJP State General Secretary Rajendra Bisht confirmed the development, stating, Former MLA Rathore failed to provide a satisfactory response to the notice issued on 23rd June. Moreover, he has breached social norms and party decorum, necessitating this action. Echoing the sentiment, BJP State Media Incharge Manveer Singh Chauhan added, The organisation was not satisfied with Rathores response. He was consistently found guilty of violating the partys dignity and social conduct. Acting on the directives of State President Mahendra Bhatt, he has been expelled for six years.
Heavy rains trigger major landslides across Uttarakhand, Yamunotri highway blocked
DEHRADUN: Heavy rainfall late Friday night triggered a significant landslide near Poligad on the Yamunotri National Highway, bringing traffic to a complete standstill. Hundreds of pilgrims embarking on the sacred Yamunotri Yatra have been left stranded on both sides of the highway since Saturday morning, facing considerable inconvenience. Heavy machinery from the National Highway Department has been deployed to the site, and clearance operations are currently underway to restore connectivity. Adding to the disruption, several other crucial routes across Uttarakhand have also been impacted by landslides and debris. According to the District Disaster Management Office, the Rishikesh-Badrinath National Highway is blocked near Sirobagad, while the Rudraprayag-Gaurikund Highway remains impassable near Sonprayag. Additionally, the Badrinath Highway has been obstructed by debris near Bhanerpani, close to Pipalkoti. Long queues of vehicles have formed at all three locations, with passengers waiting for a break in the weather. The Meteorological Department has issued a 'Yellow Alert' for heavy rainfall in parts of Dehradun and Nainital districts, while an 'Orange Alert' has been declared for Bageshwar district. Light to moderate rainfall with thunderstorms is also expected in other districts, with forecasts indicating that lightning and rain will continue across Uttarakhand until 3 July. In Chamoli district, relentless heavy rainfall since Friday night has severely disrupted daily life. The Badrinath Highway has been affected by landslides and debris at multiple points. Near Nandnagar, a pilgrimage vehicle became stuck in the Parthadeep landslide zone; however, all passengers were safely evacuated beforehand. Except for one or two locations, most routes have now been cleared, said Nandkishore Joshi, District Disaster Management Officer for Chamoli. However, the highway near Bhanerpani, close to Pipalkoti, remains blocked, with debris removal operations continuing on a war footing. The village of Thirpak bore the brunt of the intense downpour when the Nolaklana stream overflowed around 1am. The surging torrent and debris engulfed three cowsheds, tragically killing two oxen and seven goats belonging to local residents Balbir Lal and Garib Lal. Villagers sought refuge in a nearby government hospital to escape the rising waters. In response to the warnings issued by the Meteorological Department, Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami has urged residents of the state to remain vigilant. He appealed to the public to exercise patience and caution during this period of adverse weather.
Uttarakhand BJP to get new president by July 1
Dehradun: The Uttarakhand BJP will get a new president by July 1, state election officer of the party Khajan Das said on Saturday. Union minister Harsh Malhotra has been appointed as the central election officer for the selection of the new president of the partys state unit, Das added. The name of the new state 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 .
Nainital HC lifts stay on Uttarakhand Panchayat elections, seeks govt reply on quota irregularities
DEHRADUN: The Nainital High Court on Friday lifted the stay on panchayat elections in Uttarakhand, allowing the electoral process to proceed. However, it has directed the state government to respond to public interest litigations (PILs) alleging irregularities in the reservation roster. A division bench comprising Chief Justice G. Narendra and Justice Alok Mahra removed the stay after hearing multiple petitions challenging the reservation roster for the state's panchayat elections. The bench instructed the State Election Commission to issue a revised election schedule, extending the previous one by three days. The state government has also been granted three weeks to submit its response to the issues raised in the petitions. The petitioners have raised concerns about the allocation of reservations for Block Pramukh and Zila Panchayat President posts. They allege that several seats have been continuously reserved for the same category over an extended period, which they argue contravenes Article 243 of the Constitution and various Supreme Court rulings. Representing the state, Advocate General Surya Narayan Babulkar and Chief Standing Counsel C.D. Rawat defended the new reservation roster. Advocate General Babulkar stated, It was necessary to invalidate the previous reservation roster following the report from the National Commission for Backward Classes (NCBC) and to issue a new one for the current elections. Rawat added that the revised roster ensures compliance with legal mandates after the earlier one was deemed invalid. The High Court had initially stayed the panchayat elections on 23 June, even though the State Election Commission had already issued its election notification. Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) State President Mahendra Bhatt welcomed the courts decision, expressing satisfaction that the path has now been cleared for the formation of rural self-governments. Bhatt also criticised the Congress party, accusing it of obstructing the electoral process. The Congress party had been creating hurdles in the way of elections and then, ironically, blamed the government for delays, Bhatt said. The High Courts decision is a clear slap in their face.
DEHRADUN: A devastating accident unfolded on Thursday morning in Uttarakhands Rudraprayag district when a Tempo Traveller carrying a family of pilgrims from Udaipur, Rajasthan, lost control and plunged into the Alaknanda River. The vehicle, with 20 members of the same family on a Char Dham Yatra, was swept away by the rivers powerful currents. According to the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), three bodies have been recovered so far, identified as Vishal Soni (41), Dreamy (17), and Gauri Soni (41). Nine pilgrims remain missing, while eight injured individuals have been hospitalised four of them in critical condition. SDRF Commandant Arpan Yaduvanshi confirmed that, despite extensive efforts, the submerged Tempo Traveller has yet to be located in the river. We received information about the accident around 7:30 AM. Our teams, along with the police and district administration, immediately launched a rescue operation with the help of divers, Yaduvanshi stated. However, the strong currents and inaccessible terrain are posing significant difficulties in our relief efforts. District Disaster Management Officer Nandan Singh Rajwar provided an update on the casualties, saying, Three individuals have succumbed to their injuries, including two women. Eight injured have been airlifted to AIIMS Rishikesh for treatment. Eyewitnesses described the harrowing moments as the vehicle plunged into the river. Three individuals were reportedly flung out of the Tempo Traveller upon impact and were immediately rushed to hospital in critical condition. The fate of the remaining passengers remains uncertain, with fears that many were swept away by the rivers treacherous currents. In a grim discovery, one body was found approximately 8 kilometres downstream at Shivpuri, highlighting the force of the river. SDRF Sub-Inspector Jagmohan Singh stated, We are intensifying the search operation in the Alaknanda with assistance from police and local administration teams. However, the challenging terrain and strong currents are hampering our efforts. The search operation continued late into the night, with SDRF teams working tirelessly to locate the submerged vehicle and the missing pilgrims. The tragedy has sent shockwaves through the local and pilgrim communities, and authorities are providing support to the bereaved families. Five Dead, Several Injured in Separate Road Accidents In a tragic day for Uttarakhand, five people lost their lives and several were injured in four separate road accidents across the hilly state. In Dehradun, three individuals were killed and one seriously injured when a car veered off the Kalsi-Chakrata road and plunged into a deep gorge. The survivor was rushed to hospital in critical condition. In Chamoli district, two men Ankush Chauhan (32) and Pradeep Negi (33) died after their car fell into a gorge in the remote Niti Valley. Elsewhere, on the Rishikesh-Badrinath Highway, a collision between a bus and a car injured three members of a family from Delhi: Ajeet Singh (41), his wife Usha Rani (41), and daughter Kanak (16). They were treated at the Community Health Centre in Pali. Police have launched investigations into the causes of the accidents, which have underscored the dangers of travel on Uttarakhands often treacherous mountain roads.
DEHRADUN: A family of pilgrims from Udaipur, Rajasthan, on a Char Dham Yatra met with tragedy on Thursday morning when their Tempo Traveller lost control and plunged into the Alaknanda River in Uttarakhands Rudraprayag district. Initial reports suggest that at least 11 people are feared dead in the horrific incident, though only two bodies have been recovered so far. The vehicle, reportedly carrying 17 members of the same family, was completely submerged in the fast-flowing Alaknanda, making rescue operations extremely challenging due to the strong currents, officials from the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) said. SDRF divers, along with police and district administration teams, have launched extensive relief and rescue operations to retrieve the missing and those feared trapped. SDRF Commandant Arpan Yaduvanshi confirmed the details to TNIE , Around 7:30 am on Thursday, near Ghoolteer on the RishikeshBadrinath Highway in Rudraprayag district, a Tempo Traveller lost control and plunged directly into the Alaknanda River. All 17 occupants of the vehicle were from the same family, hailing from Udaipur, Rajasthan, and were on a pilgrimage. Upon receiving news of the accident, teams from the police, SDRF, and district administration swiftly arrived at the scene and launched a rescue operation with the assistance of divers. SDRF divers, along with police and district administration teams, have launched extensive relief and rescue operations to retrieve the missing and those feared trapped. Providing an update on the casualties, District Disaster Management Officer Nandan Singh Rajwar told this newspaper, As of now, nine individuals have been rescued, two of whom have unfortunately succumbed to their injuries. One of the deceased is a woman. Eight injured individuals have been rushed to the district hospital; several young children are among the injured. Eyewitnesses recounted the harrowing moments, stating that three individuals were flung out of the vehicle upon impact and were immediately rushed to the hospital in critical condition.The fate of the remaining passengers remains uncertain, with fears that many were swept away by the rivers treacherous currents. In a grim discovery, one body was found approximately 8 kilometres downstream at Shivpuri, underlining the force of the river. SDRF Sub-Inspector Jagmohan Singh told this newspaper, With the assistance of police and local administration teams, the SDRF has intensified the search operation in the Alaknanda River. However, the strong currents and the inaccessible terrain are posing significant difficulties in our relief efforts. The search operation continues amidst adverse conditions.
VP Dhankhar collapses at function in Nainital, recovers soon after
DEHRADUN, June 25 : Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar collapsed during the golden jubilee function of Kumaon University in Nainital today as he turned emotional while meeting his old-time parliamentary colleague Dr Mahendra Pal. The VP however returned to normal soon after, and was found hale and hearty as a team of doctors examined him at the event venue. Vice President Dhankhar was the chief guest at Kumaon Universitys Golden Jubilee celebrations in Nainital on the first day of his three-day [] The post VP Dhankhar collapses at function in Nainital, recovers soon after appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Anish, Sift and Umamahesh win in national selection trials
DEHRADUN, June 25: Olympians Anish Bhanwala, Sift Kaur Samra and junior world championship medallist Umamahesh Maddineni won the national selection trials (T3) for Group A athletes in the mens 25m rapid fire, womens 50m 3 positions and 10m air rifle events respectively, here on Wednesday. The trials are being held at the Trishul Shooting Range [] The post Anish, Sift and Umamahesh win in national selection trials appeared first on The Shillong Times .
Emergency darkest chapter in history of democratic India: Dhami
Dehradun: Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami on Wednesday described the Emergency as the darkest chapter in Indias democratic history, saying it was a time when the government of the day tried to crush the soul of the Constitution. Addressing a gathering of people who stood against the Emergency, Dhami said it was the result 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 .
DG information appointed additional secretary to Uttarakhand CM
Dehradun, Jun 25 (PTI) Director General of Information and Public Relations, Banshidhar Tiwari, was on Wednesday given the additional charge of additional secretary to Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami. Tiwari is also the vice president of the Mussoorie-Dehradun Development Authority. A PCS officer of the 2006 batch, Tiwari was promoted to the Indian Administrative Service (IAS) in 2016.
VP Dhankhar collapses during event in Nainital; condition now stable
DEHRADUN: Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar collapsed suddenly in Haldwani on Wednesday during his three-day Uttarakhand tour. After receiving primary medical treatment, he was escorted to the Nainital Raj Bhavan by Governor Lt Gen Gurmit Singh (retd). Sources close to the administration revealed that the Vice President had arrived as the chief guest for Kumaon University's 50th-anniversary celebrations. His health unexpectedly deteriorated shortly after the event concluded. Earlier in the day, Governor Lt Gen Gurmit Singh (retd) had welcomed him at the Haldwani Army Helipad upon his arrival for the tour. During the Golden Jubilee ceremony at Kumaon University in Nainital, Vice President Dhankhar delivered a 45-minute address as the chief guest. He repeatedly referred to Dr. Mahendra Singh Pal, a former Member of Parliament who had served alongside him in 1989. Following his address, the Vice President descended from the stage and immediately embraced Dr. Pal. The two men conversed for approximately five minutes, reminiscing about their past. Dr. Pal became visibly emotional, shedding tears, and subsequently, Vice President Dhankhar also became tearful while still embracing his old colleague. It was during this poignant moment that Vice President Dhankhar's health took a sudden turn for the worse, as he collapsed while still in Dr. Pal's embrace. An on-site team of physicians promptly administered primary medical care. He was then transported to the Raj Bhavan alongside Governor Gurmit Singh. Medical professionals later confirmed that he Vice President's condition is now stable. Earlier, a host of dignitaries, including Cabinet Minister Rekha Arya (representing the Chief Minister), MP Ajay Bhatt, Haldwani Mayor Gajraj Bisht, Vice Chairman of the Forest and Environment Advisory Committee Deepak Mehra, Kumaon Commissioner Deepak Rawat, IG Riddhim Aggarwal, District Magistrate Vandana, and SSP Prahlad Narayan Meena, had extended a warm welcome to the Vice President.
VP Dhankhar collapses during emotional reunion in Uttarakhand's Haldwani; condition now stable
DEHRADUN: Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar collapsed suddenly in Haldwani on Wednesday during his three-day Uttarakhand tour. After receiving primary medical treatment, he was escorted to the Nainital Raj Bhavan by Governor Lt Gen Gurmit Singh (retd). Sources close to the administration revealed that the Vice President had arrived as the chief guest for Kumaon University's 50th-anniversary celebrations. His health unexpectedly deteriorated shortly after the event concluded. Earlier in the day, Governor Lt Gen Gurmit Singh (retd) had welcomed him at the Haldwani Army Helipad upon his arrival for the tour. During the Golden Jubilee ceremony at Kumaon University in Nainital, Vice President Dhankhar delivered a 45-minute address as the chief guest. He repeatedly referred to Dr. Mahendra Singh Pal, a former Member of Parliament who had served alongside him in 1989. Following his address, the Vice President descended from the stage and immediately embraced Dr. Pal. The two men conversed for approximately five minutes, reminiscing about their past. Dr. Pal became visibly emotional, shedding tears, and subsequently, Vice President Dhankhar also became tearful while still embracing his old colleague. It was during this poignant moment that Vice President Dhankhar's health took a sudden turn for the worse, as he collapsed while still in Dr. Pal's embrace. An on-site team of physicians promptly administered primary medical care. He was then transported to the Raj Bhavan alongside Governor Gurmit Singh. Medical professionals later confirmed that he Vice President's condition is now stable. Earlier, a host of dignitaries, including Cabinet Minister Rekha Arya (representing the Chief Minister), MP Ajay Bhatt, Haldwani Mayor Gajraj Bisht, Vice Chairman of the Forest and Environment Advisory Committee Deepak Mehra, Kumaon Commissioner Deepak Rawat, IG Riddhim Aggarwal, District Magistrate Vandana, and SSP Prahlad Narayan Meena, had extended a warm welcome to the Vice President.
You do not expect to find the soul of House of the Dragon tucked away in Uttarakhand - but there it was. Not behind velvet ropes or inside a studio lot, but laid out on workbenches, half-built and very real.
Dehradun Diary | 1st FASTag barrier in high Himalayan region opens
A FASTag barrier has been made operational near the Badrinath Dham at a staggering altitude of 10,279 feet a first in a high Himalayan region. The new system allows for digital payment of ecotourism fees for all passenger vehicles. District Magistrate Sandeep Tewari virtually inaugurated the barrier. Highlighting the need for the barrier, he expressed, A manual collection (of fees) meant long queues of vehicles, causing inconvenience to the pilgrims. He had long advocated for its installation in the area in line with the NHIDCL guidelines to streamline pilgrim movement. States charm captivates foreign dignitaries A delegation of ambassadors and high commissioners from eight nations that arrived in Bhararisain, Uttarakhands summer capital, on International Yoga Day were left spellbound by the regions pristine natural beauty, lush green valleys and clean environment. And why wouldnt they be? Upon their arrival at the Assembly complex, the dignitaries were greeted with a vibrant display of the hill states rich folk culture a Chholiya dance performance. Mesmerised by the scenic vistas and traditional welcome, the guests waxed poetic about Gairsain, describing the unique blend of culture and natural splendour as rich in every aspect. Election proceedings for panchayat polls put off Uttarakhand State Election Commissioner Sushil Kumar has indefinitely postponed all election proceedings, including nominations for the proposed three-tier panchayat elections. The decision follows an order of the Uttarakhand High Court issued on Monday. In the case of Ganesh Dutt Kandpal vs the State of Uttarakhand, the court ruled that due to the promulgation of reservation rules for panchayat elections not being notified, reservation determination and the entire proceedings related to it are postponed till further orders. The nominations were originally scheduled to be held from Wednesday to Saturday. Narendra sethi Our correspondent in Uttarakhand narendrasethi@newindianexpress.com
Kashmirs fragrant lavender heads to Dehradun in first-ever export from Valley
Suhail Bhat Anantnag, June 23: In a major milestone for Kashmirs aromatic crop sector, the regions fragrant lavender is set to make its debut in Dehradun, Uttarakhand, as the Agriculture Department dispatches its first-ever consignment of the purple blooms outside the Valley. The historic export is being carried out from a sprawling lavender farm in Sirhama, a remote village in south Kashmirs Anantnag district, managed by the Agriculture Production and Farmers Welfare Department. Spread across 640 kanals, the farm has [] The post Kashmirs fragrant lavender heads to Dehradun in first-ever export from Valley appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Four killed, one injured as car rams into cement trailer in Dehradun
DEHRADUN: Four young men were killed and one critically injured in a horrific road accident at the Asharodi Checkpost in Dehradun in the wee hours of Sunday. The deceased has been identified as Ankush, Vinay, and Paras from Sonipat district, and Naveen from Rohtak, all in Haryana. Ankit Kumar, from Jind, Haryana, sustained critical injuries and has been admitted to the hospital. According to the police, the five youths were reportedly heading to Uttarakhand from Saharanpur when their car crashed onto a cement trailer. The impact of the collision was so severe that four occupants of the car died on the spot. The fifth occupant sustained critical injuries and was rushed to a hospital. Speaking to TNIE, Clement Town Police Station SHO Mohan Singh said that they have initiated an inquiry into the incident, and are currently questioning the truck driver. Further action will be taken based on a complaint from the victim's family, he added.
