Dehradun News

Temple priest sentenced to three years in jail over harassment of minor girl in Uttarakhand

DEHRADUN: A court in Dehradun has sentenced a local temple priest to three years of rigorous imprisonment for sexually harassing a 14-year-old girl on the first Monday of the holy month of Sawan in 2023. The ruling was delivered by the Special Judge (POCSO) court of Archana Sagar, which convicted the priest, Narendra Prasad Dimri, a resident of Dangwal Marg, Chukhukwala. In addition to the jail term, the court imposed a fine of 10,000 on the convict. According to Assistant Public Prosecutor Alpana Thapa, the incident dates back to July 10, 2023. The victim, a Class 10 student, was visiting a temple within the Kotwali area to perform 'Jalabhishek' (ritualistic offering of water) to Lord Shiva. It was during this visit that the priest, Dimri, allegedly found the girl alone. He lured her under the pretext of applying 'tilak' (a religious mark) and subsequently molested her, stated the prosecution. Witnesses reported that the priest even bit the girl on the cheek with malicious intent. The minor immediately resisted the assault and began shouting, causing a commotion that prompted the priest to flee the temple premises. Following the traumatic event, the frightened victim reported the incident to her mother upon returning home. The police promptly registered a case against the priest under relevant sections of the POCSO Act and molestation charges and initiated an investigation. A significant hurdle arose during the trial when the victims mother retracted her initial statement in court. She claimed she had filed the report under pressure from neighbours. However, the court noted the resilience of the young victim. Despite her mother turning hostile, the complainant testified bravely in court and correctly identified the accused priest, observed the prosecution. Judge Archana Sagar ruled that the victim's testimony was highly credible. The court observed that it was highly improbable for a young girl to fabricate such a serious incident. The brave and consistent testimony of the minor was instrumental in securing the conviction and ensuring justice was served. The police had filed the chargesheet in the court after completing their investigation into the priest's misconduct.

Uttarakhand HC denies bail to software engineer who killed and chopped his wife into 72 pieces

Fifteen years after a shocking murder, the Uttarakhand high court has upheld the life sentence of a US-returned software engineer. Rajesh Gulati was convicted of killing his wife, dismembering her body into 72 pieces, and disposing of the remains across Dehradun to destroy evidence. The brutal crime dates back to October 2010.

Uttarakhand youth on study visa forced to serve Russian Army, martyred; body repatriated

DEHRADUN: The body of 30-year-old Rakesh Kumar has been repatriated, his mortal remains arriving at his ancestral village in Uttarakhand on Wednesday. Rakesh had left India on a student visa, but was allegedly forced to join the Russian army amid the ongoing conflict with Ukraine. The body of the deceased youth arrived at Delhi Airport on Wednesday, before being transported to Sitaraganj. Amidst heavy mourning, the final rites were performed on Wednesday evening at Tarkanath Dham in Shakti Farm. According to family sources, shortly after he arrived in Russia, Rakeshs passport and visa were confiscated, and he was allegedly coerced into military service. Rakeshs father, Rajbahadur Maurya, confirmed that his son left for Russia on August 8 for studies. He noted that contact was maintained only for about 25 days before the abrupt silence began after August 30. He last spoke to us on August 30, shared a grieving relative. He revealed that he was being given army training in Russia and would be sent to fight in the Ukraine war. After that conversation, all contact was lost. Alarmed by Rakeshs final phone call, his family launched a frantic effort to secure his return. They travelled to Delhi and met with senior officials of the Indian government, pleading for urgent intervention. The officials assured us that Rakesh would be brought back to India soon, stated a family spokesperson. Despite these assurances, the family received devastating news just ten days ago: Rakesh Kumar had been martyred on the front lines. Rakesh Kumar's death reveals the realities of countless Indian students seeking education abroad, highlighting the severe risks they face when caught in international conflicts.

Two arrested in connection with journalists murder in Dehradun

The complainant stated that on the night of December 15 at around 10 p.m., Amit Sehgal, along with some other people, allegedly formed a gang and came to Pankaj Mishra's rented house in Doon Vihar

Kolhapurs Saee Jadhav Becomes First Woman Territorial Army Officer To Pass Out Of IMA

Pune, Dec 18: Saee Jadhav from Maharashtras Kolhapur has become the first woman Territorial Army officer to complete pre-commissioning training at the Indian Military Academy (IMA), Dehradun, breaking the institutions 93-year-old tradition of male-only officer training. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis congratulated her and said her achievement is an inspiring milestone that gives direction to the dreams of countless young girls across the country. Jadhav, 23, was commissioned as a Lieutenant during the Passing Out Parade of the 157th course held [] The post Kolhapurs Saee Jadhav Becomes First Woman Territorial Army Officer To Pass Out Of IMA appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Delhi-Dehradun Expressway to open for public soon, Nitin Gadkari reveals new inauguration date

The Delhi-Dehradun expressway will reduce travel time between the two cities to two hours from the existing 6.5 hours.

Delhiites Visit Dehradun To Escape Pollution, Only To Find AQI At 300

As a thick winter smog once again engulfs Delhi, forcing schools to shut intermittently and residents indoors, thousands of people are heading for the hills in search of cleaner air.

Uttarakhand HC upholds life term for software engineer in Anupama Gulati murder case

DEHRADUN: The Uttarakhand High Court has upheld the life imprisonment sentence handed down to software engineer Rajesh Gulati, convicted for the brutal murder of his wife, Anupama Gulati. A division bench comprising Justice Ravindra Mathani and Justice Alok Mahra dismissed Gulati's appeal on Wednesday, affirming the lower court's judgment that found him guilty of killing his spouse and subsequently dismembering her body. The sensational case dates back to 2010, revolving around the relationship between Rajesh and Anupama, who had entered into a love marriage in 1999 before moving to the United States. After returning to India six years later, the couple settled in Dehradun, where their marriage reportedly deteriorated, marked by frequent quarrels. According to the police investigation, the tragic incident unfolded during a heated argument on the night of October 17, 2010. In a fit of rage, Rajesh allegedly struck Anupama, causing her head to hit the wall. She fell unconscious. Fearing repercussions and a potential police complaint once she regained consciousness, Rajesh reportedly took the extreme step of murdering her. Investigators revealed that the next day, Gulati purchased an electric saw and a deep freezer from a local market. He then proceeded to cut Anupama's body into 72 pieces, storing them in polybags inside the freezer. To destroy the evidence, he systematically disposed of the bags in remote areas outside Dehradun over time. The mystery surrounding Anupamas disappearance began to unravel on December 12, 2010, when her brother, Sujan Kumar, arrived in Dehradun. When questioned, Rajesh provided evasive answers regarding Anupama's whereabouts. Sujan Kumar subsequently filed a missing person report at the Cantonment Police Station. Acting on the complaint, police searched Rajesh Gulati's residence and made the gruesome discovery of body parts inside the deep freezer. Rajesh Gulati was immediately arrested. In September 2017, the Dehradun trial court convicted Rajesh Gulati, sentencing him to life imprisonment and imposing a fine of Rs 15 Lakh. The court classified the crime as heinous, directing that a portion of the fine be deposited into the state treasury, with the remainder kept in a bank account for the benefit of their children upon reaching adulthood. Gulati challenged this conviction in the High Court in 2017, but the appellate courts decision came this week. This judgment reaffirms the commitment of the judiciary to delivering justice in the most heinous of crimes, commented a legal observer familiar with the proceedings.

Social media feud turns fatal as senior journalist dies after assault by colleague in Dehradun

DEHRADUN: In a tragic turn of events, senior journalist Pankaj Mishra died following a physical altercation with a colleague stemming from a social media post. Mishra, a resident of Doon Vihar, Jakhan, in Dehradun, passed away late on Monday night, prompting police action and concern among the media fraternity. Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami has expressed his condolences over the journalist's death and ordered an impartial inquiry into the incident. A post-mortem examination of Mishras body was conducted on Tuesday afternoon at Coronation Hospital in Dehradun. The sequence of events reportedly began two days prior when Mishra posted content on social media that led to a heated dispute. Although Mishra later deleted the post and issued an apology, the underlying tension persisted. Sources indicate that late on Monday night, Mishra had an argument over the phone with a fellow journalist. Shortly thereafter, two individuals reportedly arrived at Mishras rented residence in Jakhan and engaged in a physical assault. The altercation was reportedly captured on video by Mishras wife, but the assailants fled with the mobile phones of the couple. When police were informed and visited the scene, Mishra reportedly stated he would pursue formal action the following morning. Family members claim that Mishra's health deteriorated rapidly overnight. He passed away while being rushed to Doon Hospital. His wife has identified a colleague as one of the assailants. The accused journalist had hosted a wedding ceremony the previous day, which Mishra had also attended. Late on Tuesday night, his brother, Arvind Mishra, filed a complaint alleging murder, robbery, and other offences. Police have registered a case against journalist Amit Sehgal at Rajpur police station at 11:56 PM under IPC Sections 103, 304, 333, and 352. The complaint explicitly accused Sehgal and one other person of brutally beating Mishra at his Jakhan home on the night of December 15 and fleeing with the mobile phones of him and his wife. The report further states that his wife Lakshmi was also assaulted at the scene. My brother was severely beaten. He succumbed to his injuries just hours later, Arvind Mishra noted in his complaint. Police have initiated a manhunt for the accused individuals.

Dehradun Journalist Dies In Alleged Assault By Intruders At Home, Murder FIR Filed

Pankaj Mishra, an independent journalist in Dehradun, died after an alleged assault at his Rajpur home. Police have named a digital media journalist as the main accused.

Aviation Ivy Launches Free Career Guidance Platform for Aspiring Aviation Professionals

To address the growing need for unbiased career guidance, Aviation Ivy proudly announces its dedicated career counselling website. Aviation Ivy is designed for students and young professionals across India, seeking careers in aviation, hospitality, travel, or customer care. It is founded with the aim of providing free counselling to young aspirants and empowering them to make confident, well-informed career choices. Your Journey to a Confident Aviation Career Starts With increasing career options and limited guidance available, Aviation Ivy bridges this gap by offering expert-led personalised career counselling aligned with students interests and skills. Young students often struggle to identify the right path to achieve their goals. Aviation Ivy takes a transparent, student-first approach, offering services to help students focus on long-term career choices rather than follow job trends. It provides one-on-one counselling and training sessions, as well as detailed industry insights, all designed to help young aspirants gain clarity before committing time, energy, and resources to a particular career path. With presence across all major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Pune, Kolkata, Chandigarh, Agra, Lucknow, Noida, Dehradun, and Rishikesh; Aviation Ivy is now available to all people seeking reliable career guidance from industry experts, at no cost, and is committed to helping students discover their true potential. For more information, please visit - aviationivy.com

Dehradun announces new rules for pet owners; FIRs allowed in dog bite cases, registration made mandatory

Dehraduns municipal corporation has framed new dog licensing bylaws allowing FIRs against pet owners if their dogs bite someone. Licensing will be mandatory for dogs above three months, with anti rabies vaccination proof required. The rules will take effect after gazette notification, PTI reported.

Uttarakhand anti-conversion bill stalls at Raj Bhavan over technical flaws

DEHRADUN: A major legislative initiative of the Uttarakhand government aimed at substantially toughening penalties for forced religious conversions has hit a roadblock at the Governors office. The proposed Uttarakhand Freedom of Religion (Amendment) Bill, 2025, has been returned to the government by Governor Lt Gen Gurmeet Singh (Retd.), citing technical discrepancies and the need for reconsideration. Sources said the Governors office flagged several procedural irregularities in the draft legislation. The Bill was sent back to the Lok Bhavan (formerly Raj Bhavan) on Tuesday after the legislative department identified minor but critical flaws in the drafting process, an official familiar with the development said. The setback has delayed the implementation of the proposed stringent law, leaving the government with two immediate options. One option is to promulgate an ordinance to bring the law into force without delay, a senior official explained. The other is to reintroduce the Bill in the upcoming State Assembly session and secure its passage again with a majority. Uttarakhand already has an anti-conversion law, first enacted in 2018 and amended by the Pushkar Singh Dhami government in 2022 to enhance punishments. The latest amendment, approved by the state cabinet on August 13, 2025, citing the increasing seriousness of conversion cases, was passed by the Assembly during its Gairsain session on August 20 and subsequently forwarded to the Governor for assent. The proposed law significantly tightens provisions against conversion through coercion, deceit or allurement. One of the key changes expands the scope for lodging complaints. Earlier, complaints were largely limited to close blood relatives. Under the new provisions, any individual can file a complaint, a source said. For general conversion-related offences, the proposed punishment has been enhanced from the earlier two-to-seven years of imprisonment to a stricter three-to-ten years. District Magistrates have also been empowered, on the lines of the Gangster Act, to confiscate properties linked to illegal conversion activities. The harshest penalties are reserved for cases involving serious crimes. Those convicted of conversion through false promises of marriage, use of force, conspiracy, trafficking of minors or rape would face a minimum sentence of 20 years, extending up to life imprisonment, along with an additional fine of up to Rs 10 lakh.

Four killed in high-speed crash on RishikeshHaridwar highway

DEHRADUN: Four people were killed instantly in a tragic road accident on the RishikeshHaridwar highway late on Tuesday night after a speeding SUV rammed into a stationary truck. The incident took place near the Mansa Devi railway crossing in Haridwar. According to police, a Mahindra XUV500 travelling at high speed from Haridwar towards Rishikesh crashed into the rear of a parked truck with such force that the SUV was completely crushed and became wedged underneath the larger vehicle. Eyewitnesses told the police that the impact reduced the car to a mangled wreck. Preliminary investigations and witness accounts suggest that the SUV had been aggressively overtaking several vehicles moments before the collision. It was a terrible sight, said one eyewitness. The driver suddenly swerved sharply to the left, apparently to avoid an animal on the road. He lost control, and the car went straight into the back of the truck. Emergency teams from Rishikesh Kotwali, Shyampur and IDPL police outposts rushed to the scene after receiving alerts from the control room. Rescue personnel used a heavy-duty crane to cut through the wreckage and extricate the victims. All four occupants were taken to hospital, where doctors declared them dead on arrival. Police have so far identified two of the deceased as Dheeraj Jaiswal (30) and Hariom (22), both residents of Rishikesh. Efforts are under way to establish the identities of the remaining two victims, while investigations continue into the circumstances surrounding the high-speed collision.

FIR to Be Registered Against Owner If Pet Dog Bites Someone in Dehradun

According to the rules, which will come into effect after publication in the official gazette, it will be mandatory to obtain a license for dogs older than three months, which will be valid for one year from the date of registration or renewal.

Lieutenant Gurmukh Singh's miracle: 7 failures, 1 commission

DEHRADUN: In a story that exemplifies grit over glamour, a soldier from a family steeped in military tradition has emerged as a powerful role model for India's youth. Gurmukh Singh, hailing from Haryana, recently commissioned as a Lieutenant from the Indian Military Academy (IMA) in Dehradun, marking the latest chapter in a family dedicated to serving the nation across three generations. The Passing Out Parade at the prestigious IMA is always a moment of immense pride, but for the 33-year-old Gurmukh Singh, it was the realization of a long-cherished dream. Born on July 6, 1992, Singh initially joined the Indian Army as a Sepoy. However, his sights were set much higher, on wearing the officer's uniform. The path to achieving this goal was anything but smooth. Singh faced repeated setbacks, failing the entrance examinations for officer entry seven consecutive times. Speaking exclusively to TNIE after his commissioning, the newly appointed Lieutenant reflected on his arduous journey. Every failure only fueled my resolve, he stated. Balancing my duties on the ground with my rigorous preparation, I never abandoned my pursuit of becoming a commissioned officer. His perseverance finally paid off, culminating in the proud moment when his parents watched him don the olive green of a Lieutenant. Lieutenant Singh also voiced a concern regarding the shifting aspirations of the younger generation. It saddens me to see a growing trend, especially among Punjabi youth, prioritizing securing jobs abroad over serving the nation, he commented. This tendency must stop. It is the duty of parents to instill the values of patriotism and selfless service in their children. He credits his father, retired Subedar Major Jaswant Singh, as his greatest motivator, with a family legacy that also includes retired Subedars Harbans Singh and Prakash Singh. His service record itself is a testament to discipline. During his tenure as an enlisted soldier, Singh served in challenging, remote outposts like Ladakh. Finding time to study amidst demanding postings was a significant hurdle. Undeterred, he managed to complete his Post Graduate degree and a B.Ed while serving, driven by his ambition. His father, Subedar Major Jaswant Singh, consistently encouraged him after every rejection, keeping his goal firmly in sight. Following his graduation from the IMA, Lieutenant Gurmukh Singh was commissioned into the Army Air Defence (AAD) Corps. His parents, Jaswant Singh and Kulwant Kaur, were present to witness this historic milestone. From the day Gurmukh joined the Army, his ambition to become an officer was clear, said his proud father. Lieutenant Gurmukh Singh believes his years of experience as a soldier will be invaluable in his new leadership role. I understand how the Army functions and how to manage troops. Leading soldiers will come naturally, and I will approach it with complete commitment, he asserted. He remains focused on national service, enjoying motivational reading and valuing time spent with his family.

Delhi-Dehradun Expressway: When will it open? Nitin Gadkari shares BIG update as NHAI misses deadline

Delhi-Dehradun Expressway will have a designated speed limit of 100 kmph. The expressway will start from the Akshardham Temple in Delhi.

Ruskin Bond hospitalised in Dehradun due to leg problem

Dehradun: Author Ruskin Bond has been admitted to a hospital in Dehradun due to a leg problem, a close friend of the writer said here on Sunday. After visiting Bond at the hospital, well-known Dehradun-based publisher Upendra Arora said the elderly author was unable to walk properly, following which he was admitted to a private 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 .

Uttarakhand pioneers wellness tourism with first-ever naturopathy hospitals

DEHRADUN: In a significant move to boost wellness tourism, Uttarakhand is preparing to establish its first dedicated Naturopathy Hospitals, designed on the lines of luxury resorts where patients will be treated using natural therapies without conventional medication. The state's AYUSH Department has already identified land for these facilities in the districts of Champawat and Pithoragarh, while the search is ongoing in Bageshwar. According to sources within the government, the initiative is part of the first phase aimed at integrating AYUSH (Ayurveda, Yoga Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha, and Homoeopathy) practices with the state's burgeoning tourism sector. Land parcels have been finalized in Balwakot (Pithoragarh) and Koli Dhek (Champawat). Dr. Dhan Singh Rawat, the State Minister for Medical Education and Health, confirmed the development to TNIE . The AYUSH Department is formulating a proposal to open these Naturopathy Hospitals, Dr. Rawat stated. We will soon send a proposal to the Central Government seeking financial assistance. Under the AYUSH Mission, the Centre is expected to provide the necessary funding for these institutions. Naturopathy focuses on treating the root cause of illness and promoting holistic health rather than merely managing symptoms. The treatments utilize natural methods such as herbal remedies, specialized diets, yoga, massage, hydrotherapy (water therapy), and acupuncture. The proposed hospitals will offer comprehensive facilities, including diet and nutrition counseling, mud therapy, sun therapy, exercise regimens, and mind-body therapies. Deependra Chaudhary, Secretary of the AYUSH Department, elaborated on the vision for these centers. The proposal for the first phase involves establishing these hospitals in three districts, Chaudhary noted. These facilities will be set up on the lines of resorts, offering superior accommodation alongside natural medical treatments. This will significantly promote wellness tourism across the state. This development follows a strategic shift at the central level. Last year, the Central Government launched the 'AYUSH Village' scheme under the AYUSH Mission, intending to develop one such village in every district of Uttarakhand. However, departmental officials indicate that the Centre has now discontinued the 'AYUSH Village' scheme. In its place, the Central Government will now extend financial support specifically for the construction of Naturopathy Hospitals. The state department is currently preparing the detailed proposal for this new funding channel.

U-turn on Appraisal: Centre cites secrecy on 360-degree review after earlier denial

DEHRADUN: The Central Government, through the Department of Personnel and Training (DoPT), has executed a significant reversal regarding the controversial 360-degree appraisal system for civil servants, specifically in a case involving Uttarakhand cadre IFS officer Sanjiv Chaturvedi before the Nainital Circuit Bench of the Central Administrative Tribunal (CAT). In a recent affidavit filed, the DoPT stated that guidelines concerning the 360-degree appraisalalso known as Multi-Source Feedback (MSF)fall under the purview of the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC). The department now claims these guidelines are ot in public domain and cannot be disclosed to the public at large, though they may be shown to the Tribunal privately. This stance starkly contrasts with an earlier affidavit submitted to the same Tribunal in October 2023. I n that filing, concerning the same officer, the DoPT had asserted that o such system is there in Government of India and hence no records of it exist, directly addressing Chaturvedis petition which sought the summoning of these appraisal records. The governments current claim of confidentiality stands in opposition to previous disclosures. Coincidentally, the then-Secretary of DoPT provided extensive testimony before a Parliamentary Committee in 2017, detailing the initiation, execution, and attributes assessed under the 360-degree appraisal system. Furthermore, the Department-related Parliamentary Standing Committee on Personnel, Public Grievances, Law and Justice, in its 92nd Report, had thoroughly examined the MSF system. The Committee concluded that the system was opaque, non transparent and subjective, warning that informal feedback mechanisms made the process susceptible to manipulation and bias, rendering it ot legally tenable. The sequence of contradictory statements has forced the Tribunals hand. After the DoPT claimed in October 2023 that no records existed, the CAT ultimately ruled in May 2024 that the prayer seeking the guidelines was redundant based on the departments unequivocal denial. However, during a subsequent hearing in May 2025 concerning Chaturvedis empanelment, the DoPT counsel shifted position again, citing provisions within the MSF framework to justify withholding documents related to the officers empanelment process. Following this assertion, the Tribunal ordered the DoPT to produce the documents relating to the appraisal guidelines. The department has now requested the Tribunal to recall its earlier order directing the placement of these guidelines on record.

Uttarakhand CM Pushkar Singh Dhami participates in 47th All India Public Relations Conference

Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami on Saturday participated in the 47th All India Public Relations Conference2025 held at Hotel Emerald Grand, Sahastradhara Road, Dehradun. The Chief Minister inaugurated the conference by lighting the ...

Delhi Dehradun Expressway: Toll charges set to increase, car travellers are likely to pay Rs 670; check here toll charges for bus and truck

The six-lane expressway has been completed at a cost of Rs 12,000 crore and is being built in four sections. The expressway has five toll plazas and twelve interchanges, with a section that is elevated before Dehradun. Read here to know how much you need to pay while travelling on this expressway.

Op Sindoor reflects evolving warfare: Army Chief to IMAs new officers

Addresses 157th Passing Out Parade at Indian Military Academy Dehradun: Chief of the Army Staff (COAS), General Upendra Dwivedi, on Saturday emphasized the significance of modern military operations such as Operation Sindoor while reviewing the 157th Passing Out Parade at the Indian Military Academy (IMA), Dehradun. The ceremony marked the commissioning of 525 officer cadets []

Uttarakhand CM Dhami participates in 47th All India Public Relations Conference

Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami on Saturday participated in the 47th All India Public Relations Conference-2025 held at Hotel Emerald Grand on Sahastradhara Road in Dehradun.

Uttarakhand fast-tracks six ropeway projects to enhance pilgrimage, tourism connectivity

DEHRADUN: Uttarakhand is set to transform its pilgrimage and tourism landscape with a major push for ropeway infrastructure, as nearly 50 proposals are under consideration and the state government has identified six priority projects following a high-level meeting chaired by Chief Secretary Anand Vardhan on Friday. The meeting of the Steering Committee for Ropeway Development marked a decisive step towards streamlining approvals and fast-tracking construction. All proposed ropeway projects in the state must secure mandatory approval from this committee, Chief Secretary Vardhan said at the Secretariat. This is crucial to prevent duplication of efforts as various agencies are currently preparing different project reports. Vardhan also instructed that the Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) CEO, to be managed by the National Highway Logistics Management Limited, must be appointed within a week to ensure the first board meeting of the newly formed committee takes place by the end of this month. The six selected projects represent key links for pilgrims and tourists across the state. Work orders have already been issued for the high-demand routes connecting Sonprayag to Kedarnath and Govindghat to Hemkund Sahib. The proposal for the Kathgodam to Hanumangarhi Temple (Nainital) ropeway is in the final stages of approval, while Detailed Project Reports (DPRs) are being prepared for the Kanakchauri to Kartik Swami route. Tendering processes are underway for the DPRs of the Rathal Barsu to Barnala (Uttarkashi) and the vital Joshimath-Auli-Gorson ropeways. The drive for rapid development is aimed at improving accessibility for the millions visiting the state. Over 50 lakh devotees undertake the Char Dham Yatra annually, a figure nearly matched by general domestic tourism. Once operational, these ropeways will not only significantly boost the number of devotees and tourists but will also open a major gateway to easier and more accessible travel, a source close to the development team noted. Chief Secretary Vardhan emphasized that the initial focus will remain strictly on these six projects and directed officials to prepare detailed timelines for every stage of the Kedarnath and Hemkund Sahib ropeway developments. In a notable directive, he also ordered the inclusion of Kainchi Dham into the scope of the Kathgodam to Hanumangarhi project. Given the continuously escalating crowds of devotees at Kainchi Dham, we must immediately explore the feasibility of a ropeway project there, Vardhan said, highlighting the need to plan for tourist site development and route expansion for the next five to ten years alongside the construction phase. Officials acknowledged that while accelerating environmental and wildlife clearances is paramount, transporting heavy machinery to remote construction sites will present a significant logistical challenge.

Over 700 officers commissioned as Army, IAF hold Passing Out Parades in Dehradun, Hyderabad

NEW DELHI: The services of the Indian Army and the Indian Air Force were joined by more than 700 officers, men and women on Saturday following the Passing Out Parades held at their respective academies. The Indian Military Academy (IMA), Dehradun, resonated with pride, tradition and military splendour as the 157th Passing Out Parade (POP) was conducted at the historic Drill Square, while the Combined Graduation Parade (CGP) took place at the Air Force Academy (AFA), Dundigal, Hyderabad, on the same day. According to the IAF, the AFA POP marked the successful culmination of pre-commissioning training of Flight Cadets from the flying and ground duty branches of the Indian Air Force. Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan reviewed the parade and conferred the Presidents Commission on the graduating Flight Cadets of the 216 Course. A total of 244 Flight Cadets, including 215 men and 29 women, graduated on the occasion. The service of Armed Forces personnel formally begins from the day the President, as Supreme Commander, grants the commission. On the occasion, six officers from the Indian Navy, eight officers from the Indian Coast Guard and two trainees from the Socialist Republic of Vietnam were awarded Wings on the successful completion of flying training, while Brevets were conferred on five officers after completing their navigation training. The IAFs commissioning ceremony also included the administration of oaths to the newly commissioned Flying Officers, who pledged to safeguard the sovereignty and honour of the nation, in the presence of proud family members. Addressing the gathering, General Chauhan emphasised the need to create and sustain asymmetry to win future wars, underlining technology as a decisive factor. He stressed the importance of AI-driven data fusion, manunmanned teaming, autonomous and unmanned systems, and operations in the cognitive domain. Referring to Operation Sindoor as a testimony to the IAFs unparalleled professionalism, he said it must be guided by the principles of JAI -- Jointness, Atmanirbharta and Innovation -- which will shape Indias future combat power, and encouraged the officers to serve boldly and lead fearlessly. At the Indian Military Academy, the 157th POP marked the commissioning of Officer Cadets into the Indian Army, reflecting the rigorous training, discipline and indomitable spirit instilled at the institution. Chief of the Army Staff General Upendra Dwivedi reviewed the parade and congratulated the newly commissioned officers, praising their discipline, leadership and endurance. He urged them to uphold the rich traditions of the Army and reminded them that commissioning signifies the beginning of a lifelong commitment to the nation, demanding honour, discipline and selfless service. A total of 525 Officer Cadets from various courses, along with 34 cadets from 14 friendly foreign nations, were commissioned into the Indian Army, symbolising the strengthening of Indias defence leadership and enduring military partnerships. The ceremonies at both academies were witnessed by parents, family members, senior officers and distinguished guests, and concluded with the traditional Antim Pag, as the young officers marched forward, ready to uphold the sovereignty, honour and ideals of the nation.

Ancient soot discovery in Antarctica reveals alarming link to global sea level rise

DEHRADUN: Indian scientists are delving deep into the frozen continent of Antarctica, not just for knowledge but as a critical defense strategy against the looming threat of rising sea levels that could inundate India's coastal states. Researchers from the National Centre for Polar and Ocean Research (NCPOR), based in Goa, have uncovered 7,000-year-old black carbon embedded in a remote Antarctic lake. They are now urgently studying how this ancient pollutant accelerates the melting of polar ice. Speaking to the media in Dehradun, Dr. Mahesh Badanal, a scientist from NCPOR, detailed the significance of their work. We are conducting a new study where we are extracting sediment cores from Antarctica, which provide a record stretching back 7,000 years, Dr. Badanal stated. He explained that when forest fires occur, the resulting black carbon settles on the Antarctic ice sheets. This black carbon, originating from fires in places like Australia or South America, travels thousands of kilometres across the globe to be deposited in Antarctica, he noted. The specific location of this recent discovery is the Pup Lagoon in the Larsemann Hills of East Antarctica. Black carbon, often referred to as soot, is a potent climate agent. Dr. Badanal emphasized its danger compared to its more famous counterpart, carbon dioxide. After carbon dioxide, black carbon ranks second in terms of warming potential, capable of absorbing solar radiation up to 100 times more effectively, Dr. Badanal explained. If black carbon lands on the ice sheets, it absorbs significantly more heat, drastically increasing the rate of ice melting. This is why studying black carbon in Antarctica is critically important, especially as global warming drives an increase in wildfires worldwide. While India is situated approximately 10,000 kilometres away from Antarctica, the consequences of its melting ice are dire for the subcontinent. Antarctica holds about 80 percent of the world's fresh water, Dr. Badanal warned. If the ice sheets were to completely melt, global sea levels could rise by an astonishing 180 feet. While total collapse is unlikely in the short term, historical records suggest that if current temperature trends continue, we could see global sea levels rise by 50 centimetres within the next 50 to 60 years. India initiated its scientific expeditions to the icy continent in 1981 and has since completed 44 major studies, with the 45th currently underway. The Indian monsoon is a major climatic system, as are several others globally. Understanding the polar regions is crucial because they regulate these global systems, Dr. Badanal concluded.

Delhi-Dehradun Highway: 18,000 Vehicles Shift To Baghpat In Major Traffic Shift

Over 18,000 vehicles shifted to the new Delhi-Dehradun highway during the Baghpat trial run, easing pressure on Delhis choking routes

Uttarakhand to fell 5,745 trees for Bageshwar-Kanda highway upgrade; triggers ecological concerns

DEHRADUN: As environmentalists continue to protest the felling of over 6,000 trees for a highway project in Uttarkashi, another major ecological concern has emerged from the Kumaon region. Authorities are preparing to clear more than 5,745 trees for the upgradation of the Bageshwar-Kanda National Highway. The ambitious project, aimed at improving connectivity between Bageshwar district headquarters and Ghingarutola, spans five phases and primarily impacts the Bageshwar and Almora districts, with the bulk of the tree clearance scheduled for Bageshwar. Divisional Forest Officer (DFO) of Bageshwar, Aditya Ratna, confirmed the scale of the impact. Approximately 5,745 trees are affected by this project, Ratna stated. He added that compensation measures are in place, noting that for every tree felled, four saplings will be planted as per regulations. The list of trees marked for removal is extensive and includes a significant number of fruit-bearing species, raising further concerns among locals. The species affected range from Deodar and Walnut to Kafal, Jamun, Guava, Pear, Mulberry, Mango, and Oak, covering over 30 different varieties. The decision to clear thousands of trees comes as the fragile ecology of the Himalayan region remains under intense scrutiny. Environmental activists fear that the removal of this substantial green cover, especially along a major highway route, will exacerbate the risk of landslides, a persistent problem in the hills, particularly during the monsoon season. Cutting trees anywhere is wrong, stated environmentalist and activist Anoop Nautiyal while speaking to TNIE . He added, If it is absolutely necessary, modern technology exists to uproot and relocate entire trees. We need to examine why such a large number of trees are being cut in Bageshwar. Development must be mindful of the environment; otherwise, the very identity of Uttarakhand will be erased. This development follows closely on the heels of the controversy surrounding the Uttarkashi-Gangotri highway widening. In that case, out of 6,822 trees, 4,366 are slated for translocation, while 2,456 will be completely cut down, sparking widespread public outcry as the area falls within an eco-sensitive zone. With the markings already complete for the Bageshwar clearance, activists warn that the state risks setting a dangerous precedent where infrastructure needs consistently override ecological preservation. The administration, however, appears focused on finalising the remaining formalities to push the vital road project forward.

Uttarakhand: Ex-SP found guilty of stripping citizen naked over garbage complaint

DEHRADUN: The State Police Complaints Authority (PCA) has held ex-Superintendent of Police (SP) of Pithoragarh, Lokeshwar Singh (IPS, retired from service), guilty of brutalising a citizen who approached him with a grievance. The PCA, after reviewing evidence presented before its officials, concluded that the former SP subjected the complainant to severe physical abuse, including allegedly stripping him naked inside his office and then threatening him with false implication in criminal cases. The Authority has now directed the State Government to initiate disciplinary action against Singh, whose resignation from the service was recently accepted. The incident dates back to February 6, 2023. The complainant, RTI activist and cloth merchant Laxmi Dutt Joshi, stated he approached then-SP Lokeshwar Singh regarding unhygienic conditionsspecifically, garbage being dumpednear the police lines quarters where he resides. Joshi noted he is the son of a retired sanitation worker from the police department. I simply went to lodge a complaint about the filth, Joshi later recounted, according to the complaint filed with the PCA. Joshi alleged that instead of addressing the issue, SP Lokeshwar Singh led him to an adjoining room, devoid of CCTV surveillance. It was there, he claims, that the assault occurred. I was stripped naked, and the beating began. His subordinates joined in, Joshi alleged. Following the alleged assault, he was ushered out through a rear exit, also away from any CCTV cameras. Following the alleged incident, Laxmi Dutt Joshi immediately sought medical examination at the District Hospital, which recommended an X-ray. When summoned by the PCA, Lokeshwar Singh submitted a sworn affidavit denying the allegations. He characterised Joshi as a criminal element with several First Information Reports (FIRs) against him, claiming Joshi was called in for questioning regarding an arson case involving vehicles on that particular day. Singh vehemently denied any physical abuse. However, the PCA bench, headed by Justice N S Dhanik and comprising retired IPS officer Pushpak Jyoti and Ajay Joshi, found Singh's defense unconvincing. The facts presented by the then SP Pithoragarh did not hold water, the Authority stated in its findings. Crucially, the PCA noted that complainant Joshi possessed medical evidence, including an X-ray report taken the day of the incident, indicating injuries sustained within a 12 to 24-hour window. Lokeshwar Singh failed to provide any counter-evidence to dispute this, the ruling observed. Furthermore, the Authority highlighted that the complainant had not accused any subordinate police staff, focusing the allegations solely on the SP. The PCA concluded that the charges against Singh were proven, stating the actions arnish the image of the police department. The detailed review confirmed that the complainant was allegedly made to sit naked and subsequently beaten. The Authority has recommended action under various sections of the Uttarakhand Police Act against Lokeshwar Singh. Lokeshwar Singh, who served 11 years in the Uttarakhand cadre, resigned as SP of Pauri district in October after reportedly securing a position with a United Nations-affiliated organisation. His resignation was formally accepted by the Central Government on November 28. He is currently on leave.

Uttarakhand forest official moves HC after government bypasses seniority for top post appointment

DEHRADUN: The Uttarakhand Forest Department is once again engulfed in controversy over the appointment to its top post, as a decision by the state government to bypass seniority rules has prompted the most senior officer to challenge the appointment in the High Court. In an unprecedented move, the state government appointed Ranjan Kumar Mishra as the Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (HoFF), the chief of the entire department, overruling the claims of his senior colleague, BP Gupta. Gupta has approached the Nainital High Court, challenging the governments decision to ignore established seniority norms. This move sets a dangerous precedent, commented an insider familiar with the department's internal workings, speaking on condition of anonymity. When a junior officer is placed above a senior colleague in a critical administrative post, it inevitably leads to questions of fairness and administrative propriety. The situation is further complicated because Gupta currently holds the charge of Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (Administration), a role that falls directly under the HoFF. This means Gupta would now have to report to his junior. While there were discussions during the Civil Service Board meeting about potentially shifting Gupta to a specialised role outside the core department, Biodiversity, an order to this effect has already been issued. This marks the first time the state government has explicitly disregarded seniority when selecting the head of the Forest Department. While there was a previous instance where Rajiv Bhartari was briefly appointed HoFF before being replaced by his junior, Vinod Kumar, the current situation is seen as the clearest instance of seniority being overlooked for the department's apex position. It is worth noting that internal disputes over key appointments in the Forest Department are not new. Former HoFF Rajiv Bhartari had previously taken the government to the High Court after being removed from the post, leading to a court order reinstating him temporarily. Gupta has filed his petition through his counsel, Abhijay Negi. The High Court heard the matter twice on Wednesday and has scheduled further hearings for Thursday, keeping the entire administrative fraternity in suspense. Legal experts suggest the Court may seek minutes from the DPC meeting to ascertain the rationale behind bypassing seniority. However, there is also speculation that the Court might advise Gupta to pursue the matter before the Central Administrative Tribunal (CAT), which typically handles service-related disputes. The Forest Department has witnessed previous legal battles over administrative decisions; notably, Pankaj Kumar previously sought judicial intervention against a transfer order, which the High Court subsequently stayed.

FIR filed against 18 social media accounts over deepfake images targeting PM Modi in Dehradun

DEHRADUN: A major political storm has erupted in Uttarakhand's capital after highly offensive, digitally manipulated images and videos targeting Prime Minister Narendra Modi began circulating widely on social media. The Bharatiya Janata Yuva Morcha (BJYM) quickly filed a complaint at the Vasant Vihar police station, alleging a coordinated attempt to tarnish the Prime Ministers image using sophisticated AI tools. Devendra Bisht, Mahanagar President of the BJYM, submitted a written complaint naming 18 social media accounts allegedly involved in spreading the fabricated content. These AI-generated photos and videos are a blatant attempt to defame the Prime Minister, Bisht said, noting that the visuals portray the PM in compromising or absurd scenarios, such as selling tea, posing shirtless like a bodybuilder, or standing behind Russian President Vladimir Putin as a bodyguard. Bisht said the posts were intended to hurt public sentiment and create disharmony. These account holders are actively trying to disturb public peace, he added. Local police confirmed that a case has been registered, but no arrests have been made so far. Station House Officer Ashok Rathore said the matter has been referred to the Cyber Cell for detailed investigation. A case has been registered against the operators of 18 accounts under relevant sections of the IT Act and other serious charges, Rathore said. Our focus is on tracing the origin and identifying which account first uploaded the AI-generated content. The circulation of the deepfakes has sparked anger among BJP workers in the region. Bisht demanded strict action, including defamation charges, against those involved, warning that such content could escalate hatred and provoke unrest. The investigation is ongoing to identify and apprehend those responsible for creating and circulating the fake visuals.

RSB Dehradun, NCT Delhi win via tiebreakers

Santa Cruz: RSB Dehradun secured a 4-2 win over Bihar Secretariat in a tie-breaker on Day 2 of the All India Civil Services Football Tournament at Santacruz ground. The match ended 0-0 in regular time, setting up a penalty shootout to decide the winner. RSB Dehradun held their nerve, with Abhishek Kandhari, Manish Maithani, Vijaypal [] The post RSB Dehradun, NCT Delhi win via tiebreakers appeared first on The Navhind Times .

Uttarakhand HC denies bail to Banbhoolpura riot mastermind Abdul Malik; three others get relief

DEHRADUN: The Uttarakhand High Court on Monday rejected the bail plea of Abdul Malik, who is accused of being the main conspirator in the violent February 2024 riots in Banbhoolpura , Haldwani. Malik will remain in judicial custody. The court also directed the State Government to file a detailed report listing all allegations against him. In a split decision, the Division Bench comprising Justice Manoj Kumar Tiwari and Justice Pankaj Purohit granted bail to three other accused in the 16 cases linked to the riots. However, Malik and former municipal councillor Zeeshan Parvez, also known as Sebu, will continue to stay in jail. Maliks lawyer argued that he is innocent, was not present at the spot during the violence, and has been in jail since February 2024. The counsel also pointed out that Malik is a senior citizen and claimed that there is no solid evidence against him. The prosecution opposed the bail strongly, calling Malik the central figure in the conspiracy. The government lawyer told the court that Malik is accused of planning the entire incident, which included illegal encroachment on government land and a violent attack on officials who went to remove it. After hearing both sides, the court refused bail and asked the State to submit a full affidavit explaining every charge against Malik. The next hearing for the remaining accused is scheduled in two weeks. The violence broke out on February 8, 2024, when officials began demolishing an illegal madrasa and clearing encroachments in Banbhoolpura. A mob opposed to the action attacked the demolition team. The clashes involved heavy stone-pelting, arson, and vandalism targeting police, journalists, and civic staff. A police station was also set on fire. Five people died and nearly 100 were injured in the unrest. Authorities later imposed a curfew in the area to bring the situation under control.

Zee Media Auto Summit 2025: Nitin Gadkari highlights big gains in infrastructure push, says 'Ownership Delivers Results'

Nitin Gadkari said strong ownership drives results as he announced the Delhi-Dehradun corridor's trial run, major highway progress, and a sharp drop in India's logistics costs.

Dreams turned to ash: Five Uttarakhand men killed in Goa nightclub fire

DEHRADUN: Among the 25 people killed in the devastating fire at a popular Goa nightclub were five young men hailing from Uttarakhand, whose desperate search for better opportunities ended in a fiery catastrophe. The deceased have been identified as Satish, Sumit, Jitendra, Manish, and Surendra, all employees at the establishment. They carried the hopes of their families, dreaming of stability and even international prospects, only to have those aspirations extinguished in the blaze. Sumit Negi, 29, from Pauri district, had recently joined the Goa nightclub as a chef two months ago. Heartbreakingly, he was scheduled to return home on January 18 to celebrate his second wedding anniversary. Surendra Singh, from the border district of Pithoragarh, had arrived in Goa just two days before the tragedy while planning his return to Germany, where he had previously worked for four years in the hotel sector. Manish, 22, from Lohaghat in Champawat district, had dropped out of his studies to support his family. After working in Hyderabad and Bengaluru, his move to Goa ended abruptly, leaving his dream of marriage unfulfilled. Satish Rana, 24, from Chah Gadolia village in Tehri Garhwal, was the sole breadwinner, responsible for supporting his parents and younger brothers education. His death leaves his family facing an uncertain future. Jitendra Singh, 24, from Sankuld village in Tehris Devprayag block, had initially sought work in Delhi before moving to Goa. He leaves behind two married sisters and a younger brother. The loss of these young men has plunged their families into deep sorrow and financial distress. He was everything to us. He was working so hard to ensure his younger brother could study, lamented a relative of Satish Rana, speaking from Tehri. We never imagined his hard work would lead him to such an end. Sumit Negis imminent return for his anniversary has magnified the pain for his family. He called just last week, excited about coming home, said a tearful neighbour in Pauri. Now, we are preparing for a funeral instead of a celebration. Authorities are investigating the cause of the fire, while officials in Uttarakhand have pledged support for the bereaved families, emphasising that this tragedy is a stark reminder of the sacrifices made by thousands of hill state youth in search of a dignified life.

Congress leader Harish Rawat performs 'Joota Seva' to placate sikh community amid controversy

DEHRADUN: In a significant move aimed at stemming political fallout, former Uttarakhand Chief Minister and senior Congress leader, Harish Rawat, personally visited the Gurdwara Shri Guru Singh Sabha in Dehradun on Sunday. Following prayers before the Guru Granth Sahib, Rawat participated in 'Langar Sewa' (community kitchen) service and performed 'Joota Ghar Seva' (shoe cleaning) service. This act of penance follows a recent controversy ignited by Congress leader and former cabinet minister, Harak Singh Rawat, who allegedly made an objectionable remark targeting the Sikh community during a lawyers' protest in Dehradun on Friday. The comment sparked widespread outrage among the Sikh populace. Sensing the depth of the community's anger, Harish Rawat stepped in to mediate and control the damage. His involvement comes after Harak Singh Rawat had already sought forgiveness, including performing 'Joota Seva' at the Paonta Sahib Gurdwara. The timing is crucial for the Congress party, which is gearing up for the 2027 Assembly elections, having been out of power in Uttarakhand since 2017. The party is acutely aware that regaining power requires a united front and securing key community votes. A mistake was made by a Congress leader, and to repent for it, we will perform 'Joota Seva' and 'Kar Seva' at the Gurdwara and seek forgiveness before the Guru Granth Sahib, Harish Rawat stated, emphasising accountability. The political calculus behind this swift damage control cannot be overstated. Sikh voters hold significant sway in several key constituencies across Udham Singh Nagar and possess a vital vote bank in Dehradun and Haridwar. In both the 2017 and 2022 polls, Congress secured seats in Haridwar and Udham Singh Nagar, underlining the necessity of maintaining community goodwill. The BJP wasted no time capitalising on the gaffe. BJP State Media In-charge, Manveer Chauhan, reacted sharply, stating, As a senior leader of the Congress, Harak Singhs comment clearly shows what the party's thinking towards the Sikhs remains even today. With the state leadership recently reorganisedintroducing a new State President, Ganesh Godiyal, and establishing election committees well in advancethe Congress is aggressively campaigning against the ruling BJP government. However, this latest incident forced the party onto the back foot, prompting top brass like Harish Rawat to intervene directly to protect their electoral prospects.

J-K: Indian Army's TA recruitment draws massive youth turnout in Poonch

The Territorial Army recruitment drive in Poonch, Jammu and Kashmir, has attracted thousands of young men seeking career opportunities and community involvement, continuing until December 15. At the same time, a National Integration Tour is taking a group of inquisitive students from Poonch to Dehradun to expose them to various facets of the Indian Army and regional traditions.

Antara Strengthens Leadership in India's Senior Care Market, To Exclusively Manage Senior Living Residences at Estate 361 - Second Project with Max Estates

Antara Senior Living Limited, a wholly owned subsidiary of Max India Limited, has joined hands with Max Estates to exclusively manage the senior living residences and amenities at Estate 361 - a forest-themed, wellness-first 18.23-acre development along the Dwarka Expressway, which is one of Gurugrams most rapidly emerging corridors. This marks Antaras second project with Max Estates after the milestone success of Estate 360, Delhi-NCRs first intergenerational community, wherein 292 residences for seniors were sold out in just 11 months. The recently launched Estate 361 will have a total of 360 senior living units and will also have a curated integrated wellness centre combining modern medicine with ancient Indian wisdom to impact quality of life of Seniors. The Antara Integrated Wellness Centre brings together primary healthcare - in-house doctors, 24x7 nursing and paramedics, emergency services, ambulance, specialist consultations - with wellness programmes including Ayurveda, homeopathy, naturopathy, acupressure, acupuncture, UV therapy. By combining modern medicine with the wisdom of traditional therapies, Antara will enable seniors to access proactive, preventive and personalised care which grows with them. Explaining the concept, Mr. Rajit Mehta, MD & CEO, Antara Senior Care , said, Ageing is a second coming of empowerment. Its a phase where seniors rediscover their aspirations and themselves. Its also a stage marked by increased need for physical, emotional and social wellbeing. With so many seniors navigating chronic conditions, mobility challenges and emotional vulnerability, wellbeing must be clinically guided, compassionate and woven into everyday life. Ageing actively calls for purpose designed communities. This is where intergenerational living embedded with integrated wellness can play an impactful role. Senior living models, like the one at Estate 361, can help Indias ageing population stay active, engaged and confident for longer. At Antara, our mission is to build senior care ecosystems that bring all this together so seniors can age with dignity, ease and joy. Designed with nature and wellbeing at its core, Estate 361 offers over 250,000 sq. ft. of forest greens, water bodies and sensory pathways carefully planned to enhance cognitive, emotional and physical health. It has 200,000+ sq. ft. of planned amenities for active ageing, including dedicated sports and recreation facilities: paddleball courts, golf putting greens, all-weather swimming pool, hydrotherapy pool, a senior-focused gym. The Antara Club will have our Residents Engagement Team curate year-long calendars of activities based on residents interests and passion. The senior living residences are designed with accessibility in mind to promote autonomy. They feature wheelchair-friendly layouts, rounded wall edges, anti-skid flooring, strategically placed grab bars, senior-friendly elevator bays with lavatories and rest seating, panic alarm buttons, centralised fresh air circulation and glare-free lighting. Living is made truly hassle-free with the little things taken care of by Team Antara: Gourmet dining, Ghar ka Khaana facility, dietician-planned nutritious meals, laundry and even housekeeping, all done with Sevabhav. India is reaching a demographic and social inflection point. The countrys senior population, according to the ASLI-JLL report Elevating the Golden Years, is projected to rise from ~147 million in 2024 to nearly 350 million by 2050. As per the UNFPA, the fastest-growing senior segment - the 80+ population - is expected to surge by 279% (1) . Simultaneously, Indias traditional care ecosystem of joint families is being replaced by nuclear families leaving families overwhelmed with care responsibilities, or seniors ageing alone with one in three reporting depressive symptoms or loneliness. Together, these factors signal an urgent need for structured, professionally managed senior living solutions. All these factors, NRI investment and the increased investor interest in senior living underscore a decisive transition: India is actively seeking dignified, dependable, holistic senior-living environments, not piecemeal services. Backed by the Max Groups expertise in healthcare, hospitality and real estate, Antara is uniquely positioned to lead this transformation. About Antara Senior Care Launched in 2013, Antara is the senior-care business of Max India Limited, part of the $7-billion Max Group. It is an integrated ecosystem for senior care, operating in two main lines of business Residences for Seniors and Assisted Care Services. Antaras first senior residential community in Dehradun, comprising nearly 200 families, caters to their social, recreational, educational, wellness, and health-related needs. In the near future, it will open its second senior living community in Noidas Sector-150, with families moving into the 340 apartments built in the first phase. Expanding its footprint in Gurugram, Antara will manage senior living residences, dedicated spaces for senior living, and primary healthcare services at Estate 360 and Estate 361, developed by Max Estates. Antaras Assisted Care Services include Care Homes, Memory Care Home, Care at Home and AGEasy. This line of business caters to seniors, who need more immersive interventions in their daily lives due to medical or age-related issues. With seven facilities across Gurugram, Noida, Bengaluru and Chennai, Care Homes provide long-term care to seniors who require constant medical and nursing supervision, and short-term care services for the recuperation of seniors. Its Care at Home services, offered in Delhi NCR, Bengaluru and Chennai, provide well-equipped, trained professionals offering care to seniors inside their homes comfort. AGEasy, an online and offline store focusing on senior-specific products and solutions to manage chronic health conditions at home, has touched over 5 lakh lives since inception in 2023. india.unfpa.org/sites/default/files/pub-pdf/iar_2023_rgb_web.pdf

Uttarakhand infants face nutrition emergency: Study

DEHRADUN: A new analysis of nearly half a million children across Uttarakhand has exposed a nutrition emergency, revealing widespread child malnutrition that threatens the states future economic potential. The study, which reviewed data from 4.83 lakh children aged up to 5 years across all 13 districts, shows that despite previous accolades, the states nutritional health has severely deteriorated. The findings, compiled by Dr Kirti Kumari, scientist at Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Tehri Garhwal, and brand ambassador for Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao, pinpoint four districts requiring immediate, targeted intervention based on data from 15,514 Anganwadi centres. Almora has emerged as the epicentre of the crisis. Despite not being among the most remote Himalayan regions, Almora registered a wasting rate of 5.34%, affecting 949 children. More critically, its Severe Acute Malnutrition (SAM) rate stands at 1.94%nearly double the state average of 0.72%. The district administration must declare a nutrition emergency immediately, Kirti said. Almora and Uttarkashi have crossed critical WHO thresholds. The study also highlighted a hidden cost associated with massive infrastructure projects. Tehri Garhwal shows high levels of malnutrition, with 4.17% of children wasted and 25.55% stunted. Researchers suggest that this is tied to the displacement caused by the Tehri dam. Tehri Garhwals children bear the unseen burden of the Tehri dam, Kirti Kumari explained. Displaced families, moved from fertile valleys to rocky, low-yield lands, have lost traditional livelihoods and support networks. Harish Negi, a displaced resident, said, We had 2 acres of rich land. Now we have 0.5 acre of rock. How do we feed our children? Kamla Bisht, an elderly resident in a resettlement colony, added, Before the dam, we had milk from our cows, vegetables from our fields... Now we buy everything at double the price on rocky land that grows nothing. Three grandchildren are malnourished. Is this the price of development? The consequences extend beyond health. The analysis estimates that child malnutrition currently costs Uttarakhand `7,000 crore annually, equivalent to 2.5% of the states Gross State Domestic Product. Malnutrition costs more than Uttarakhands health budget (`4,500 crore), Kirti said. Every day of delay costs the state `19 crore. This money is simply lost, not invested anywhere. Uttarkashi records high moderate acute malnutrition (3.80%), while Pithoragarh hovers close to WHO thresholds. Experts stress that action must be taken swiftly, as irreversible damage occurs after age two.

Uttarakhand ramps up geothermal push to reduce dependence on hydropower

DEHRADUN: The Uttarakhand government is aggressively pursuing geothermal power generation to reduce dependence on traditional hydropower and secure the states energy future. The state has formally implemented the Geothermal Energy Policy-2025 to fast-track geothermal projects. Uttarakhand Jal Vidyut Nigam Limited (UJVNL) is preparing to begin drilling operations at the Tapovan geothermal spring, with necessary paperwork nearing completion. The state government is committed to utilizing this clean, reliable resource, said R. Meenakshi Sundaram, Principal Secretary of the Energy Department. For these initial, crucial projects, the state has decided to bear the entire cost of drilling. Extensive geological surveys have identified multiple potential sites. The Wadia Institute of Himalayan Geology has listed 40 geothermal springs, while a recent ONGC study indicates around 62 viable sites across Uttarakhand. The state had earlier signed an MoU with Icelandic firm Verkis, which conducted a pre-feasibility test at the Tapovan spring. Following this, UJVNL applied for drilling permission, which has now been approved. Administrative transfer to UJVNL is being finalised, and deep drilling will allow measurement of temperature profiles at different depths, essential for designing a viable power plant. The government is also in talks with the Oil and Natural Gas Corporation (ONGC), which has requested access to several geothermal sites for potential exploration. A separate meeting will be held with ONGC shortly to discuss their proposals, Sundaram said. The concentrated push for geothermal power highlights Uttarakhands ambition to become a leader in renewable, base-load energy generation, overcoming the seasonal limitations of hydropower.

Daylight leopard attack sparks panic in Uttarakhand's Pauri, 55 schools shift to online classes

DEHRADUN: Amid recurring natural disasters and forest fires, Uttarakhand is now facing an alarming surge in humanwildlife conflict, placing unprecedented pressure on the state government. The crisis is most severe in Pauri district, where the threat posed by a predatory leopard has forced the Education Department to take drastic measures temporarily closing 55 schools and shifting all teaching to online mode. Locals describe the atmosphere in Pauri as eerily similar to the intense restrictions witnessed during the COVID-19 lockdown, driven entirely by fear of the roaming big cat. The leopards activity has brought life to a standstill, said villager Balbir Singh Rawat. It feels like we are under a self-imposed lockdown again, but this time the threat is not a virus; its a predator roaming in broad daylight. The situation escalated after the leopard reportedly killed a man in broad daylight last week, sparking immediate and furious protests from residents who demanded swift action and the immediate culling of the identified man-eater. Despite public outcry and the deployment of a designated shooter by the Forest Department, the leopard remains at large, intensifying the climate of fear across Pauri. In response to the danger, the Education Department ordered the closure of all schools under the BEO circles of Bada, Chardhar and Dhandhari until Tuesday. The safety of our children is paramount, said Dr. Mukul Kumar Sati, Director, Secondary Education. He added that affected institutions must switch immediately to online teaching modalities to ensure their education is not completely derailed. District Magistrate Swati S. Bhadauria has also taken cognizance of the heightened animal activity. Based on Forest Department reports, the DM issued an order on Saturday temporarily revising the timings of all schools and Anganwadi centres across Pauri district. Schools and Anganwadi centres will now operate strictly between 9:15 am and 3:00 pm., the order stated, instructing the Chief Education Officer to ensure strict compliance. The epicentre of the current panic is Gajald village in the Pauri Range of the Garhwal Forest Division, where the fatal attack took place on Thursday. Villagers reported leopard sightings in neighbouring Siroly village on Friday and Saturday as well. Following the killing, residents expressed intense frustration with both the Forest Department and the administration for failing to control the threat. Although the Forest Department immediately declared the leopard a man-eater and deployed specialised teams, locals say the increased security presence has done little to ease their daily fear. As dusk falls each day, markets in the affected areas are shutting early, with people hurrying home before sunset to avoid any chance encounter with the elusive predator.

Ex-minister Harak Singh Rawat embroiled in controversy over alleged remarks against Sikh community

DEHRADUN: Former Uttarakhand Cabinet Minister and senior Congress leader, Harak Singh Rawat, found himself embroiled in controversy on Saturday after allegedly making inappropriate remarks targeting the Sikh community during a public gathering in Dehradun. The incident occurred while Rawat was expressing solidarity with striking lawyers, quickly escalating, forcing the veteran politician into a public apology. Rawat visited the ongoing agitation by the Dehradun Bar Association to show support. According to senior advocate Virendra Singh Khurana, Rawat reportedly made an indecorous comment while gesturing to a Sikh advocate to raise slogans. The alleged statement was immediately deemed socially inappropriate and offensive by members of the legal fraternity present. As news of the remark spread among the assembled lawyers, strong protests erupted. Faced with mounting anger, a visibly rattled Rawat immediately retracted his statement. He had no intention of hurting the sentiments of any community, and he has expressed regret if his words were misunderstood, a source close to Rawat stated. Although the advocates accepted the apology, the matter has swiftly gained political traction, potentially causing significant damage to the Congress party in the state. Uttarakhand BJP under fire as Harak Singh Rawat demands donor list for Rs 27 crore party fund Political analysts suggest this is not an isolated incident for Rawat, whose past statements have often made the party uncomfortable. BJP spokesperson Honey Pathak quickly seized on the controversy, stating, Since joining Congress from the BJP, Rawat has consistently failed to manage his image, and this incident could further erode his political credibility. Political analyst Shakti Singh Barthwal noted that such utterances directly undermine the Congress's message of social harmony and secularism in the state. These kinds of statements are damaging for Congress, especially when the party is trying to project an image of unity, Barthwal commented. The fallout extended to social media, where various Sikh organisations condemned the comment as insensitive, urging leaders to maintain respect for all communities in public forums. While Rawat managed to quell the immediate protest with an apology, observers believe this controversy will linger in the political discourse of Dehradun for some time.

Rats allegedly gnaw deceased man's face in Haridwar hospital mortuary; family vandalises premises

DEHRADUN: A shocking incident at the District Hospital's post-mortem house in Haridwar has sparked outrage after family members discovered that rats had allegedly gnawed on the face, including one eye, of a deceased man's body stored overnight. The gruesome discovery early Saturday morning led to immediate fury among the relatives, culminating in vandalism within the hospital premises before police could arrive. The deceased was identified as 36-year-old Lakhan alias Lucky Sharma, manager of the Punjabi Dharamshala, who was rushed to the District Hospital late Monday night after his health deteriorated. Doctors declared him dead upon arrival, and the body was placed in the mortuary pending post-mortem procedures. When we returned in the morning, we saw clear bite marks from rats on the eye, ear, nose, and face of the body, stated Manoj Sharma, the deceased's brother-in-law. The familys anger intensified as they claimed the deceased had intended to donate his eyes. Rats destroyed one eye. Seeing one eye missing sent our tempers soaring, Sharma added. Allegations of gross negligence by hospital staff quickly followed, triggering a massive uproar. A crowd gathered rapidly, joined soon after by members of the local Punjabi community and several Congress party leaders, all demanding accountability from the hospital administration. In the chaos that ensued, family members and supporters allegedly damaged glass panes, tables, chairs, and essential equipment inside the hospital before authorities could gain control. The brother-in-law further detailed the potential cause of the tragedy. The deep freezer was not working properly. The specific unit where the body was kept was also open from the back. That is how the rats entered and consumed parts of the body, he alleged. The Chief Medical Superintendent, Dr. Ranbir Singh of the District Hospital, acknowledged the serious lapse, confirming the facility's infrastructure issues. It is true that several body storage freezers in the hospital are malfunctioning. Some lids are not even closing properly, he admitted. He assured the public that a thorough investigation would be conducted, and strict action would be taken against those found responsible for the lapse.

Uttarakhand's hidden hunger crisis: Nutrition emergency grips State, Almora worst hit

DEHRADUN: A recent analysis on nearly half a million children across Uttarakhand has exposed a deeply concerning 'nutrition emergency,' revealing widespread child malnutrition that threatens the State's future economic potential. The study, which reviewed data from 4.83 lakh children aged 0 to 5 across all 13 districts, shows that despite previous accolades, the States nutritional health has severely deteriorated. The alarming findings, compiled by Dr Kirti Kumari, Scientist at Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Tehri Garhwal, and Brand Ambassador for Beti Bachao, Beti Padao, pinpoint four districts requiring immediate, targeted intervention based on data from 15,514 Anganwadi centres. The district of Almora has emerged as the epicentre of the crisis. Despite not being among the most remote Himalayan regions, Almora registered a wasting rate of 5.34 per cent, affecting 949 children. More critically, its Severe Acute Malnutrition (SAM) rate stands at 1.94 per centnearly double the state average of 0.72 per cent. The district administration must declare a nutrition emergency immediately, Dr Kirti urged, while speaking to TNIE. Almora and Uttarkashi have crossed critical World Health Organisation (WHO) thresholds. The study also highlighted a hidden cost associated with massive infrastructure projects. Tehri Garhwal district shows significant levels of malnutrition, with 4.17 per cent of children wasted and 25.55 per cent stunted. Private sector must help achieve 'hunger free' India: G20 Sherpa Researchers suggest this is tied to the displacement caused by the Tehri Dam. Tehri Garhwals children bear the unseen burden of the Tehri Dam, Dr Kirti explained. Displaced families have moved from fertile valleys to rocky, low-yield lands and have lost traditional livelihoods and support networks. Harish Negi, a displaced resident, lamented, We had two acres of rich land. Now 0.5 acres of rockhow do we feed our children? Kamla Bisht, an elderly resident in a resettlement colony, added. Before the dam, we had milk from our cows, vegetables from our fields... Now we buy everything at double the price on rocky land that grows nothing. Three grandchildren are malnourished. Is this the price of development? she asked. The consequences extend beyond health. The analysis estimates that child malnutrition currently costs Uttarakhand 7,000 crore annually, equivalent to 2.5 per cent of the states Gross State Domestic Product (GSDP). Malnutrition costs more than Uttarakhand's entire health budget (4,500 crore), Dr Kirti stated. Every day of delay costs the state 19 crore. This money is simply lost, not invested anywhere. Uttarkashi also faces severe challenges with high moderate acute malnutrition (3.80 per cent), while Pithoragarh hovers dangerously close to the WHO thresholds. Experts stress that action must be taken swiftly, as irreversible damage occurs after age two. Significantly, India's Global Hunger Index score improved to 27.2 in 2020 from 38.9 two decades ago. Ranked 94th out of 107 countries, India moved up 8 spots from 2019 and 9 spots from 2018. The country has shifted from the 'Alarming' to the 'Serious' category, indicating significant progress in reducing hunger.

Uttarakhand: J&K resident's land purchase despite ban on outsiders buying land sparks political row

DEHRADUN: A high-stakes land transaction allegedly involving a Jammu and Kashmir resident purchasing ten 'Bighas' (approximately 9000 sq yards) of land in the sensitive Kalsi area of Dehradun has ignited a major controversy, putting the state government on the defensive regarding its stringent rules on non-resident land ownership. The purchase, reportedly executed during the enforcement of the 2022 Assembly election Model Code of Conduct (MCC), has provided fresh ammunition for the opposition, especially as Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami has frequently highlighted concerns over demographic change in the state. Sources within the Revenue Department confirm that under the Uttarakhand Zamindari Abolition and Land Reforms Act, 1950, individuals from outside the state are typically restricted to purchasing only 250 square meters of land. The land in question, located in Kalsi, is valued at over 32 lakh rupees per 'bigha' at current government rates. The fact that the buyer is a resident of Jammu and Kashmirand a former police official therein a tribal and sensitive zone has amplified the seriousness of the alleged violation. The issue first surfaced following a complaint lodged by a resident Sanjay Khan with the Dehradun administration. Khan alleged that Ghulam Haider, the JK resident who purchased the land from Safdar Ali on March 16, 2022, was attempting to claim ownership of his property. Uttarakhand to introduce strict land laws to curb unchecked transactions by outsiders The controversy deepened when Khan presented evidence, including a video allegedly sent from Pakistan, wherein an individual named Abdullah claimed the land belonged to his grandfather and was donated to the Waqf Board. Khan dismissed this as a conspiracy orchestrated by Haider. The matter has already reached the Nainital High Court, raising questions about how an outsider managed to acquire such a large parcel in a protected area. Opposition parties and local advocacy groups are demanding immediate accountability. Bobby Panwar, President of the Uttarakhand Swabhiman Morcha, stated emphatically, This is an extremely serious matter. It is impossible without collusion from government machinery. An investigation must clarify why a person from JK is acquiring such a large tract of land here and what his true intentions are. The Congress party has also seized upon the incident to question the administration's oversight. Responding to the mounting pressure, the Chief Ministers Office (CMO) confirmed that an investigation has been ordered. We have directed the District Magistrate of Dehradun to immediately investigate this matter and take necessary action, a CMO source confirmed. Officials assure that all angles are being examined to clarify the situation surrounding the illegal procurement of land by an outsider.

Five killed, five injured as jeep plunges into deep gorge in Uttarakhand

DEHRADUN: Five killed and five were injured as a wedding partys car plunged into a deep gorge in the Lohaghat region of Uttarakhand in the early hours of Friday. According to the District Disaster Control Room, the group was travelling in a Mahindra Bolero jeep returning after wedding rituals, reportedly lost control near Barakot on the National Highway and tumbled into the ravine late Thursday night. The crash occurred near Bagdhar, close to Barakot, and the cause is under investigation. Police and SDRF teams launched an immediate rescue operation. SDRF Commandant Arpan Yaduwanshi said extracting the victims from the deep gorge was extremely challenging, but all were retrieved after sustained efforts. The deceased have been identified as Prakash Chand Uniyal (40) of Subhashnagar, Rudrapur; Kewal Chandra Uniyal (35); Suresh Nautiyal (32); Bhavna Chaubey (28); and her six-year-old son, Priyanshu Chaubey. The injured include the driver, Devidutt Pandey (38) of Seraghat, Almora; Dheeraj Uniyal (12) of Rudrapur; Rajesh Joshi (14) of Bankot, Gangolihat; Chetan Chaubey (5) of Delhi; and Bhaskar Panda of Seraghat, Gangolihat. The injured were taken to the Lohaghat Sub-District Hospital, where two remain in critical condition.

SIR: Uttarakhand starts voter verification for 2003 rolls

Dehradun: Uttarakhand has begun pre-registration work for the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls, aimed at verifying voters whose names figured in the 2003 rolls, an official statement said on Thursday. According to the statement by the chief electoral officers office, the exercise includes preparatory work for the upcoming SIR. A campaign is also 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 .

BIS places Uttarakhand in seismic zone 6, declares entire state highly vulnerable to earthquakes

DEHRADUN: The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) has issued a new seismic map, placing the entire state of Uttarakhand, including its plains and mountainous regions, into seismic zone 6the highest category for earthquake vulnerability. This revision supersedes the previous classification, which had divided the state between Zone 4 and Zone 5. The new classification signals that any future seismic event could cause uniform, high-level damage across all parts of Uttarakhand. The shift mandates a complete overhaul of infrastructure development policies, as the state must now adhere to stringent, unified building codes. The implication of being placed entirely in Zone 6 is that infrastructure damage, should an earthquake strike, will be uniform across every region, noted an official familiar with the development strategy. Previously, the older building bylaws offered slight concessions for development in areas classified under Zone 4. With the entire state now under the most severe classification, building codes must be standardised to withstand the highest seismic risks, potentially up to magnitude 8. This presents a formidable financial challenge for Uttarakhand, which already operates under constrained economic resources. Developing infrastructureincluding roads, bridges, government offices, and schoolsto withstand such powerful tremors will require significant capital investment. Uttarakhand faces earthquake risk as tectonic stress builds up State Disaster Management Secretary Vinod Kumar Suman, confirmed the gravity of the situation. In the older map, parts of Uttarakhand were in Zone 4 and some in Zone 5. The newly issued map places the entire state in Zone 6, making Uttarakhand significantly more vulnerable to earthquakes and disasters. Suman emphasised the immediate steps required. This primarily involves amending the Building Bylaws. The Housing Department and the Central Building Research Institute (CBRI) in Roorkee will collaborate on this. We also need to focus on public training and awareness regarding protective measures and structural design. Housing Department Principal Secretary R Meenakshi Sundaram clarified the existing regulations, noting that even under the older norms, earthquake-resistant technology was mandatory based on location, not just height. People often incorrectly associate sensitivity only with multi-story buildings. If you are in a sensitive zone, you must build earthquake-resistant structures, Sundaram stated. He added that current bylaws already provide guidelines for earthquake-proof construction for all buildings, permitting up to seven or eight stories in the plains and three to four in hilly areas, adhering to the required technical standards. The government is now prioritizing the revision of these bylaws while simultaneously launching public awareness campaigns to mitigate future risks. IIT study warns of earthquake-induced landslides in four Uttarakhand districts, Rudraprayag most vulnerable

BJP claims top Uttarakhand Congress leaders may be removed from electoral rolls over voter duplication

DEHRADUN: Ahead of the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) drive set to commence in Uttarakhand, the Bharatiya Janata Party has claimed that several senior Congress leaders, including former Chief Minister Harish Rawat, could be struck off the electoral rolls due to alleged voter duplication. The claims were made by BJP spokesperson and sitting MLA, Vinod Chamoli, who alleged the Congress was protesting against the SIR process because its members were facing removal as illegal voters. Chamoli asserted that the issue mirrors recent allegations made by Congress against the Bihar elections. Congress cried foul about vote tampering in Bihar and Bengal. But the Bihar results clearly show that this slogan is now hurting them, Chamoli told TNIE . He alleged that those being removed in the SIR are individuals illegally registering to vote in multiple locations, some even pointing fingers at migrants from Bangladesh holding fraudulent voting rights. The most pointed accusation was levelled directly at former CM Harish Rawat. Chamoli, representing the Dharampur assembly constituency in Dehradun, stated he personally scrutinised the voter list for his seat. I examined the voter list for my constituency. I found that senior Congress leader and former Chief Minister Harish Rawat's vote is registered in Majra, Booth Number 74, under my Dharampur seat, Chamoli claimed. His serial number on the list is 717. We are clearly asking: when has Harish Rawat ever resided in Majra under the Dharampur assembly constituency? In my 40 years of political history, I have never seen him in that area. Chamoli further accused the Congress of creating fraudulent voter IDs in multiple locations based on false documentation, leading to the current crisis. This is why Harish Rawat and the Congress are opposing the SIR. If senior leaders have created fake votes, imagine how many their grassroots workers have made. When the survey happens, their votes will be cut, and that pain is now evident. Meanwhile, the newly appointed Congress State President, Ganesh Godiyal, dismissed the allegations, suggesting political bias. If the BJP is orchestrating the removal of Congress members through the SIR and the Election Commission is playing into their hands, their true intentions are clear, Godiyal stated. He reaffirmed the Congress's stance: The Congress is clear that voter duplication must not occur. When questioned specifically about Rawat's registration in Dharampur, Godiyal challenged the BJP spokesperson. Chamoli must prove where exactly Harish Rawat has cast his vote. Furthermore, has he ever voted at that other booth? If he can prove that, then certainly it warrants an investigation. The political standoff sets a tense stage for the upcoming voter revision exercise in the Himalayan state.

DelhiDehradun travel time to drop to 2.5 hours as trial run begins on new expressway

DEHRADUN: Commuters are set to witness a dramatic reduction in travel time between the National Capital Region and Uttarakhands capital, as the trial run for the ambitious DelhiSaharanpurDehradun Expressway commenced late Sunday night. The 210-kilometre project, whose foundation stone was laid by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on December 4, 2021, is now operational on a trial basis following the removal of barricades near Geeta Colony, signalling the imminent opening of this high-speed corridor. The new expressway promises to cut the six-hour drive to just two and a half hours. The Rs 11,800-crore project begins near the Akshardham Temple Metro Station in Delhi, connects to the DelhiMeerut Expressway, and passes through Baghpat, Baraut, Muzaffarnagar, Shamli and Saharanpur in Uttar Pradesh before culminating in Dehradun. This corridor starts as an elevated structure from Geeta Colony itself, which will significantly ease congestion for Delhi-bound traffic, an official associated with the project said. The expressway incorporates multiple environmental and safety features, including Asias longest 12-km elevated wildlife corridor through Rajaji National Park, allowing wildlife to move freely underneath the roadway and reducing the risks associated with high-speed traffic. Further enhancing animal safety, special monkey ladders have been installed to connect trees and allow primates to cross without descending onto the road, helping prevent accidents. The main route is secured with protective fencing to minimise humanwildlife conflict. We have also employed non-intrusive yellow lighting to avoid attracting insects, and sound barriers line the edges of the expressway to curb noise pollution, an NHAI source said. While the main section from Ganeshpur to Asharodi in Uttarakhand is complete, officials noted ongoing work to address geological vulnerabilities. Following monsoon surveys that identified potential landslide risks near two hillsides, the NHAI undertook jacketing work to reinforce 24 pillars affected by river erosion. To enhance accessibility for pilgrims, a dedicated viaduct is being constructed near the Daat Kali Devi Temple at Mohand, ensuring smooth access for high-speed traffic from Delhi without dangerous U-turns. NHAI Chief Engineer Mukesh Parmar said the elevated road is designed for speeds up to 100 km/h for light motor vehicles, with a 60 km/h speed limit for two-wheelers and clear signage installed. Work on the elevated road and associated safety features is nearing completion, Parmar added. We are optimistic that the expressway will be fully open to the public before the New Year.

DelhiDehradun Expressway opens with no toll charges: Check latest update

DelhiDehradun Expressway news: A key part of the Delhi-Dehradun Expressway is now open for public trial. This new high-speed corridor will cut travel time from six hours to about two and a half hours. The trial phase allows authorities to test traffic flow and safety.

HSBC INDIA Expands its Presence in Gujarat with a New Branch in Vadodara

HSBC India on Saturday unveiled its new branch in Vadodara, Gujarat, marking a significant step in its strategic expansion across the country. This launch signifies the banks 27th branch in India and its second in Gujarat, following Reserve Bank of Indias approval earlier this year to open 20 new bank branches in key cities. Chef Ranveer Brar, Her Highness Radhikaraje Gaekwad, Maharani of Baroda & Sandeep Batra, Head, International Wealth & Premier Banking, HSBC India, at the branch inauguration Vadodara, known for its rapid economic growth and industrial prowess, is emerging as a significant hub for wealth creation. The city is home to a burgeoning population of affluent, High Net Worth (HNW), Ultra High Net Worth (UHNW), and non-resident clients in one of Indias rapidly growing wealth and industrial hubs. HSBCs new branch is strategically positioned to meet the financial and wealth needs of this customer segment. The expansion reinforces HSBCs focus on the wealth opportunity in India, where it is the leading international bank offering a full spectrum of solutions and services to clients across International Wealth and Premier Banking, and Corporate and Institutional Banking. Commenting on the launch, Sandeep Batra, Head of International Wealth and Premier Banking, HSBC India , said, As entrepreneurial spirit and innovation continue to drive economic growth and personal wealth, affluent customers are increasingly adopting a global outlook. They are seeking a trusted partner who is able to consistently serve them across jurisdictions. Our new branch in Vadodara reflects our commitment to being closer to our customers and delivering world-class banking solutions tailored to their unique needs. As the leading international bank in India, we remain focused on enabling our clients to unlock opportunities and achieve their aspirations, both in India and internationally . With this addition, HSBC now has a network of 27 branches across 15 cities in India. HSBC has maintained a strong presence in India for over 170 years, supporting customers in their financial journeys both locally and globally. Further HSBC India will open branches in Amritsar, Bhopal, Bhubaneswar, Dehradun, Faridabad, Indore, Jalandhar, Kanpur, Ludhiana, Lucknow, Mysuru, Nagpur, Nashik, Navi Mumbai, Patna, Rajkot, Surat, Thiruvananthapuram and Vishakhapatnam. About HSBC India HSBC India offers a full range of banking and financial services through 27 branches across 15 cities. HSBC is one of India's leading financial services groups, with around 44,000 employees in its banking, investment banking and capital markets, asset management, insurance, software development and global resourcing operations in the country. It is a leading custodian in India. The Bank is at the forefront in arranging deals for Indian companies investing overseas and foreign investments into the country. About HSBC Holdings plc HSBC Holdings plc, the parent company of HSBC, is headquartered in London. HSBC serves customers worldwide from offices in 60 countries and territories. With assets of US$3,099bn at 30 September 2024, HSBC is one of the worlds largest banking and financial services organisations.

Dehradun Diary | Dharmendras ashes reach Haridwar

Veteran actor Dharmendras ashes have arrived in Haridwar, where the immersion ceremony, known as Asthi Visarjan, will take place at VIP Ghat on Wednesday. Sunny Deol, Bobby Deol, and other family members have reached Haridwar to perform the rituals. The family has requested privacy and asked the media to maintain distance. The ashes are currently kept at Pilibhit House in Haridwar, a 100-year-old mansion on the banks of the Ganges, where the family is also staying. Security arrangements have been made at VIP Ghat to ensure a peaceful ceremony. The iconic actor passed away on November 24 after a long illness. States Raj Bhavan renamed Lok Bhavan Symbolising a shift in governance, Uttarakhands Raj Bhavan has officially been renamed Lok Bhavan (Peoples House), effective Monday. The Governors Secretariat confirmed the change, citing a letter from the Union Home Ministry and the approval of Governor Lt. Gen. Gurmit Singh (Retd). This renaming of the Raj Bhavan in Dehradun and Nainital is official, stated Governors Secretary Ravinath Raman. This move aligns with a national trend of transforming symbols of colonial-era authority into spaces reflecting public accessibility. Observers note this is part of a broader initiative championed by PM Narendra Modi to redefine public office. CM announces high-level Sanskrit Commission CM Pushkar Singh Dhami announced the formation of a high-level commission for the promotion and development of Sanskrit during the closing ceremony of a two-day international conference at the Sanskrit Academy on Monday. Addressing delegates, Dhami stated, Ancient civilisations developed on the foundation of Sanskrit, the root of most world languages. Former CM Ramesh Pokhriyal Nishank highlighted Uttarakhands pioneering role, noting it was the first state to declare Sanskrit its second official language. Devbhoomi has been the centre of Indian knowledge, he added. The commission aims to safeguard this Devvani heritage.

Dharali landslide: BJP's Col Kothiyal claims 147 still buried under debris after four months

DEHRADUN: Four months after a devastating landslide struck Dharali in Uttarkashi, explosive claims by a Minister of State-rank leader have sent tremors through the ruling establishment, directly challenging the official narrative of the disaster management efforts. Colonel (Retd) Ajay Kothiyal, Chairman of the Uttarakhand Ex-Servicemen Welfare Advisory Council (holding MoS status), publicly stated that 147 individuals remain buried beneath the debris at the site of the August 5 disaster in Dharali. The revelation, made during a recent event, immediately put the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) government on the defensive. This disclosure by a minister-rank leader from the ruling party itself has exposed the government's handling of the situation, reacted a senior Congress leader, sharply criticizing the administration. Colonel Kothiyals viral video statement raised serious questions about the official response. He asserted that while the Army was searching for 10 missing people, only seven were successfully recovered. He further claimed that the state machinery failed to extract even one from the 147 that are still trapped.No serious efforts were made to recover those 147 people, Kothiyal alleged. DNA testing to identify victims of Uttarakhand's Dharali disaster as search operations continue He further criticized the scientific assessment, claiming that scientists from Wadia Institute and Uttarakhand Council for Science and Technology (UCOST), sent to study the situation, remained confined to the area instead of visiting the ground zero. He suggested that critical disaster management protocols were ignored, sarcastically noting that Class 2 level work was assigned to those who have only passed the 12th grade. The official toll confirmed five deaths, with approximately 67 people listed as missing (approved for death registration), including 25 Nepali nationals. Kothiyals numbers suggest a far greater loss of life and a massive failure in comprehensive search operations. The Army utilized their expertise; NDRF, ITBP, and others were not used according to their specialization, Kothiyal reportedly said, urging the system to emulate the Armys dedication to finding the missing so they may find 'Moksha' (salvation). Following the uproar, the opposition has mobilized. State Congress President Ganesh Godiyal is scheduled to visit Dharali. Dr. Pratima Singh, senior Congress spokesperson, told TNIE , BJP is inadvertently exposing its own failures. Congress President Karan Mahara visited the victims despite administrative restrictions at the time of the tragedy. The families of the buried are still crying out for help, and the government has failed to listen, she said.

Key accused in Dubais BlueChip Group scam held in India

The prime accused in the Dubai BlueChip Group scam and one of the UAEs largest investment frauds was arrested in India on November 30 after 18 months. The Indian origin man was identified as 44-year-old Ravindra Nath Soni, who was arrested by Uttar Pradesh police from Dehradun in Uttarakhand. A reward of Rs 10,000 had 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 .

New 31-KM Delhi-Dehradun Expressway Stretch To Open Soon, Will Cut Travel Time By 30 Minutes

Early assessments by traffic engineers indicate that the average one-hour journey from East Delhi to the UP border could shrink to nearly half, cutting travel time by about 30 mins

DelhiDehradun Expressway update: Trial runs begin on 32-km DelhiBaghpat route

A significant 32-km stretch of the Delhi-Dehradun Expressway, from Akshardham to the Eastern Peripheral Expressway near Baghpat, has commenced trial operations. This development promises to slash travel time between the two capitals to just 2.5 hours. The eco-friendly corridor features wildlife passages and rainwater harvesting, with full completion anticipated soon.

Delhi-Saharanpur-Dehradun Expressway Opens For Trial Run, Launch Soon

The Delhi-Saharanpur-Dehradun Expressway, one of North India's most significant highway projects, had one section opened for a trial run, marking a major milestone toward its full operational launch.

Good News for Delhi To Dehradun commuters: Trial run begins on long-awaited expressway, to launch on...; Check details here

This expressway is 210 km long and will connect the three states of Uttarakhand-Delhi and Uttar Pradesh. The project, which cost Rs 11,868.6 crore to build, is designed to provide commuters with a smoother and more visually appealing highway experience. Read here to know details.

Delhi-Dehradun Expressway opens for trial run; inauguration expected by month-end

NEW DELHI: The much-awaited Delhi-Dehradun Expressway, expected to reduce travel time by almost four hours, was opened for a trial run on Monday. Developed at an approximate cost of Rs 12,000 crore, the corridor will significantly reduce the travel time between the national capital and the city located in the Doon Valley on the foothills of the Himalayas in Uttarakhand from the existing 6.5 hours to just 2.5 hours. The access controlled expressway, that has an operational speed limit of 100 kmph starts from Akshardham Temple in Delhi and passes through many districts of Uttar Pradesh such as Baghpat, Baraut, Muzaffarnagar, Shamli and Saharanpur and culminates at Dehradun. The 210-km-longexpressway was expected to be ready by March 2024. Speaking at the monthly interactive sessionDelhi Dialoguesorganised by TNIE , the Minister of State in the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways Harsh Malhotra last week said that the remaining work of the project had almost been completed and the expressway would be opened by the end of this month. The project was approved in 2020. Prime Minister Narendra Modi laid the foundation of the expressway in December 2021. The expressway will also have a spur towards Haridwar and also connect to Char Dham Highway, thus enhancing the connectivity to the hill stations and pilgrimage sites of Uttarakhand and Uttar Pradesh. The last 20-km long stretch passes through the eco-sensitive zone of Rajaji National Park where Asias longest elevated wildlife corridor (12km) that includes 340 metre Daat Kali tunnel is being constructed. Multiple animal passes have been provided in the Ganeshpur-Dehradun section for avoiding animal-vehicle collisions. The corridor also has arrangements for rainwater harvesting at intervals of 500m and over 400 water recharge points. The ministry of road transport and highways (MoRTH) has planned to install solar panels along the 14.75 km-long stretch of the Expressway, including a 6.9 km elevated section starting from Akshardham junction (near Delhi-Meerut Expressway) to at DLF Ankur Vihar situated at Delhi-Uttar Pradesh (UP) border. The estimated cost of the pilot project is Rs 1,479.22 crore, which is to harness up to seven (megawatt) MW of solar power. It will be commissioned within 18 months, with a 25-year power agreement.

Delhi-Dehradun Expressway opens for trial, to cut travel time to 2-2.5 hrs; inauguration expected soon

The Delhi-Dehradun Expressway, also known as the Delhi-Saharanpur-Dehradun Expressway, is one of the much-awaited highway projects. It has been opened for a trial run for commuters on Monday, December 1. Once fully operational, the expressway is expected to reduce the Delhi-Dehradun journey from the usual 6-6.5 hours to 2-2.5 hours.

Uttarakhand's Gangotri National Park closes gates for winter after record-breaking tourist season

DEHRADUN: The gates of the famed Gangotri National Park and the adventurous Gartang Valley have been ceremoniously shut for the winter season, concluding a remarkably successful year for tourism in the ecologically sensitive region. Despite the impact of recent natural events, the park has not only welcomed a record number of visitors but also generated substantial revenue. The park, a global hotspot for mountaineering and trekking, officially closed its entry points on Sunday. Officials confirmed that a total of 29,162 tourists visited the park this season, a significant figure considering disruptions caused by the recent Dharali disaster . Harish Negi, Deputy Director of Gangotri National Park, highlighted the financial success. The park has received a revenue of Rs 80,96,750 from entry fees alone, Negi told TNIE . This marks a significant jump from the approximately Rs 61 lakh earned in 2023 and the revenue generated in 2022 when 28,500 tourists visited. While the Dharali disaster slightly reduced the footfall compared to initial projections, the revenue saw a marked increase, Negi added. Tourists will now have to wait until April 1, 2026, to re-enter the park boundaries when the passes reopen. Pradeep Bisht, Range Officer for Gangotri National Park in Uttarkashi, echoed the positive sentiment. A large number of tourists flocked to the tourism destinations within the park this season. Both the number of visitors and the revenue have set new records. The park administration remains vigilant even during the closure. Over 50 camera traps have been installed across the area to monitor the activities of rare wildlife, including the snow leopard, Argali sheep, bear, and red fox, which inhabit this vast area spanning 1,553 sq km up to 7,000 meters. The closure ceremonies took place at key entry points: the Kankhu Barrier, the Bhairavghati Barrier, and the Lanka Bridge Barrier leading to Gartang. The Gartang Valley, a thrilling attraction situated near the India-China border, also saw high footfall, as did the popular trekking routes to Gaumukh and Tapovan. Even the number of foreign mountaineers was deemed satisfactory. Gartang Valley, renowned for its precarious, stepped pathway, also concluded its season successfully. Historian Jai Singh Rawat provided context on this engineering marvel to TNIE . The world's most dangerous path, carved into the steep Himalayan hillside in the Nelang Valley, was constructed by Pathans from Peshawar around the 17th century, nearly 300 years ago, Rawat explained. This approximately 150-meter-long wooden staircase, built at an altitude of 11,000 feet, stands as a testament to the historical India-Tibet trade route.

Landour Bazaar in Mussoorie sinking rapidly, experts warn of disaster risk

DEHRADUN: Mussoorie, one of Uttarakhands most popular hill stations, is facing an alarming situation due to escalating land subsidence in Landour Bazaar. The Landour Bazaar, a historical hub, is visibly sinking, raising fears of a major disaster. While similar issues have been reported in other parts of the state, the situation in Mussoorie, called the Queen of Hills, is concerning due to its significance as a tourist destination and its fragile geology. The central stretch of Landour Bazaar has reportedly subsided by nearly a foot in recent months. Fissures have appeared on the road surface, and cracks are spreading across adjacent shops and homes. The entire road has been sinking for two years, but the pace has accelerated dramatically in the last few months, said Jagjeet Kukreja, general secretary of the local traders association. The ground has dropped by at least a foot. Local residents allege that unchecked illegal excavation and haphazard, unplanned construction in the lower parts of Landour Bazaar are main reasons for ground instability. Despite complaints submitted to the Mussoorie Dehradun Development Authority (MDDA) and district administration, no tangible action has been taken. Officials seem to be sitting on our complaints, lamented a shop owner. If this situation persists, the existence of Landour Bazaar is at risk. A major accident could happen any time. Mussoorie sits in Seismic Zone-IV, making the sinking land critically vulnerable to sudden collapse or major damage during seismic activity. Experts note that agencies, including IIT Roorkee and the Wadia Institute, have inspected the Landour region in recent years, but their reports have neither been made public nor followed up with mitigation efforts. The recent heavy monsoon also exacerbated the situation, leading to landslides and the collapse of water bunds and roads in nearby Jharipani area. Asked about the deteriorating conditions, Mussoorie Municipal Council president Meera Saklani assured swift action. Landour Bazaar is located in an extremely geologically sensitive zone. That sinking feeling Land subsidence in Mussoories Landour Bazaar has intensified, with the central stretch near the Kohinoor Building sinking Residents blame illegal excavation and unplanned construction, say complaints to authorities went unanswered Experts from IIT Roorkee and the Wadia Institute have inspected the area, but their reports remain unpublished Mussoorie lies in Seismic Zone-IV, increasing the risk of sudden collapse; recent heavy monsoon rains worsened instability, triggering landslides and the collapse of roads Municipal council president Meera Saklani promised action and review of IIT Roorkees report, noting that Cabinet Minister Ganesh Joshi has inspected the site.

Uttarakhand SIR: Tracing names from 2003 voter rolls proves tough due to delimitation of 18 constituencies

DEHRADUN: The office of the Uttarakhand Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) has released the 2003 voter list for the special intensive revision (SIR) of poll rolls, but tracing names from that period is a challenge for many residents. The core issue lies in delimitation exercises that followed 2003, rendering 18 former assembly constituencies obsolete and replacing them with new names and boundaries. The newly released 2003 electoral data, available on the CEO website, is crucial for verifying if a voter was registered before the boundary changes. However, voters searching for older constituency names are finding blanks. For the younger generation of voters, searching for names under old constituencies like Dharampur and Raipur in Dehradun, Tharali in Chamoli, or Chaubattakhal in Pauri will yield no results because these assembly seats did not exist in 2003, a source revealed. Following the states formation, the first delimitation occurred in 2002, establishing 70 assembly and five Lok Sabha seats, which were reflected in the 2003 rolls. A national-level delimitation in 2008 did not alter the total number of seats but erased 18 existing constituency boundaries, replacing them with new configurations. When a current voter searches for his/her new constituency name, they wont find a corresponding entry in the 2003 list because the nomenclature and geographical representation were entirely different back then, explained an official from the state election commission. Boundaries erased Following the states formation, the first delimitation occurred in 2002, establishing the 70 Assembly and five Lok Sabha seats that were reflected in the 2003 voter rolls. A subsequent national-level delimitation in 2008 did not alter the total number of seats but erased the 18 existing constituency boundaries

India in 2047 will be superpower: Ex-ISRO chief Somnath

Dehradun: Former ISRO Chairman S Somnath said that India will be a superpower in 2047, with space technology and manufacturing being a supplier to the world. Somnath made these remarks during the inauguration of the 71st convention of the Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP) here on Friday. He asserted that science and spirituality can coexist, 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 .

Solar panel along highways to check pollution

NEW DELHI: The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) has proposed installing solar panels along national highways, beginning with a pilot on the under-construction DelhiDehradun Expressway. The move aligns with Indias targets of achieving 500 GW of non-fossil fuel capacity by 2030 and Net Zero emissions by 2070. The pilot will cover a 14.75 km stretch of NH-709B, including a 6.9km elevated section from Akshardham to DLF Ankur Vihar on DelhiUP border. Speaking at Delhi Dialogues , the interactive session organised by this newspaper, MoS Harsh Malhotra said the initiative could reshape how highways are built and powered. Based on the outcome, the government plans to replicate the model across highways in several states, he said. Earlier this month, NHAI signed an MoU with the Solar Energy Corporation of India (SECI) to collaborate on renewable energy solutions for highways, including solar, wind, hybrid power, green hydrogen, and storage systems. The partnership aims to make transport infra greener, he said. The pilot project, estimated at Rs 1,479.22 crore, is expected to generate up to 7 MW of solar power. It will be commissioned within 18 months and run on a 25-year power agreement. SECI has submitted a draft Request for Selection for developers, and a Joint Working Committee is being set up to monitor progress and chart a national rollout. The agency will conduct feasibility studies, manage bidding for renewable energy procurement, oversee project development and invest in EV charging infra. NHAI will make land available for the charging stations. The 210km DelhiDehradun Expressway is set to open next month, Malhotra said. The access-controlled corridor, with a 100kmph speed limit, runs from Akshardham Temple through Baghpat, Baraut, Muzaffarnagar, Shamli and Saharanpur before ending in Dehradun.

CBI arrests assistant professor in escalating UKSSSC paper leak probe

DEHRADUN: The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) on Friday arrested an assistant professor who acted as a key conspirator in the Uttarakhand Subordinate Services Selection Commission (UKSSSC) graduate-level recruitment paper leak, marking a significant development in the ongoing investigation. The accused, identified as Suman, an assistant professor at Shaheed Srimati Hansa Dhanai Rajkiya Mahavidyalaya in Tehri Garhwal, was taken into custody alongside two others, Mohd Khalid and his sister Sabiha. The arrests mark a deepening of the probe into the leak that forced the cancellation of the crucial examination. The CBI took over the investigation after the Uttarakhand government recommended a central probe amid widespread student agitations that followed the leak. The assistant professor was arrested on Friday, and will be produced before the designated court after a medical examination, a CBI spokesperson confirmed in a formal statement. Sources within the agency said Professor Sumans alleged involvement surfaced during the scrutiny of digital evidence obtained from Khalid and Sabiha, who were apprehended earlier. Preliminary findings indicate a troubling modus operandi. Officials stated that Suman assisted Khalid by solving portions of the leaked question paper, which was reportedly obtained via Khalids sister. The solved answers were then sent to Khalid, who was appearing as a candidate in the examination. The interrogation and analysis of mobile phone data strongly indicated Sumans direct assistance in disseminating the leaked content, an official privy to the investigation noted. The controversy erupted in October when three pages of the graduate-level recruitment exam paper were leaked from a centre in Haridwar, triggering widespread outrage among unemployed youth across the state. More than one lakh candidates had competed for just 416 vacant posts, making the integrity of the exam especially critical. The perceived scale of malpractice prompted sustained protests led by the Uttarakhand Berojgar Sangh. The state governments decision to transfer the sensitive case to the CBI came in response to persistent public demands for an impartial and thorough investigation. The arrest of a serving academic now points to a potentially more organised network behind the leak rather than isolated incidents. The CBI is expected to reveal further details as the accused are presented before the court.

Uttarakhand: In Doon Valley, Dam Meant to Solve Water Crisis Worsens Climate Vulnerability

Planned to solve Dehraduns water shortage, the Song Dam Drinking Water Projects construction practices have altered the rivers behaviour, villagers say.

Dalit community in Uttarakhand elects its own village head, breaking a 150-year tradition

DEHRADUN: In a significant assertion of self-determination, the Dalit community of Bijnu Bijnad village in the remote Jaunsar-Bawar region of Uttarakhand has broken a 150-year-old social convention by independently electing its own Syana (village head). For what is believed to be the first time in nearly 150 years, the community chose its own leader, a move that required the intervention of the local police administration to ensure a smooth transition within existing social structures. Historically, villages in this region comprising both Dalit and dominant Rajput populations shared a single Syana. This leader was traditionally selected only from affluent or influential non-Dalit families, effectively sidelining lower castes from participation in village governance. Previously, there was only one Syana for the entire village. Now, we will have two, said a resident involved in the process. The newly elected Dalit leader was ceremoniously paraded atop a wooden elephant. The 35 Dalit families spearheading this change needed assistance from the police administration to establish their new governance structure without confrontation. The Syana post, crucial for mediating local disputes and representing the village, has long been dictated by caste hierarchy since the British era. Bharat Singh Rana, former Pradhan and social activist from the neighbouring Gram Panchayat Bhoonth, explained the depth of the tradition being challenged. It is difficult to pinpoint the exact duration of the leadership exclusion for Dalits, as it was based on social custom and caste hierarchy rather than written law, Bharat Singh told TNIE . If we assume this hierarchy was established at least since the British period (18th19th century), this step challenges a social structure that has been entrenched for approximately 150 to 200 years. Rana also emphasised the contemporary significance of the development. If we view this in the context of independent India, where principles of reservation and social justice are enshrined, this move is a significant effort to dismantle the 75-year-old social inequality that persisted even after Independence. The election of a separate Dalit Syana establishes a precedent for autonomous leadership in the Jaunsar-Bawar region, marking a major step towards dismantling entrenched caste-based governance practices.

NGT slaps Rs 50,000 fine on Uttarakhand govt over illegal stone crusher operation near Dehradun

DEHRADUN: The National Green Tribunal (NGT) on Wednesday imposed a fine of Rs 50,000 on the Uttarakhand government after confirming that an illegal stone crusher is operating inside the ecologically sensitive Shivalik Elephant Reserve and the active floodplain of the Song River. The tribunals directive followed a petition by concerned Dehradun residents, represented by Advocate Gaurav Kumar Bansal, highlighting severe ecological violations caused by the stone crusher in a protected zone, which threatens local wildlife. The NGT based its decision on a detailed report by the Wildlife Institute of India (WII), which confirmed that the stone crusher sits squarely within the notified elephant reserve and lies in the active flood zone of the Song River, a key tributary of the Ganga. The WII report warned that the sites industrial activity is fragmenting critical habitats. The river and surrounding scrubland serve as vital dispersal routes for elephants, tigers, leopards, and other large mammals. The presence of this industrial unit has effectively narrowed the ecological corridor, severely compromising its functionality for wildlife movement, the report noted. In addition to the fine, the NGT directed the Member Secretary of the Uttarakhand Pollution Control Board (UPCB) to file a personal affidavit explaining how clearances were granted despite the sites status as a wildlife corridor and active floodplain. Advocate Bansal said the states lapse threatens the survival of elephants and other wildlife. Permitting such an industrial unit in an ecologically fragile zone reflects poorly on the states commitment to environmental governance, he told TNIE. He added, The state of Uttarakhand has a duty not only to protect the Shivalik Elephant Reserve but also the active flood zone of the Song River. What adds insult to injury is that the plant is also narrowing the elephant corridor, a serious concern that has been allowed to persist.

Uttarakhand makes written consent mandatory for women on night shifts

DEHRADUN: In a key step to support womens empowerment and ensure their safety, the Uttarakhand government has made written consent compulsory for employing female staff for night shifts in shops and commercial establishments. This crucial amendment was approved on Wednesday during the state cabinet meeting, integrating it into the Uttarakhand Shops and Establishments (Regulation of Employment and Conditions of Service) Rules, 2022. The new regulation stipulates that women employees can only be assigned night duty if they explicitly agree to it beforehand. This decision comes in response to instances where women who were unwilling to work late hours were allegedly forced into night shifts. This measure strikes a balance between providing equal opportunities and safeguarding the well-being of our female workforce, stated a spokesperson for the Labour Department. We are committed to ensuring that empowerment does not come at the cost of security. Women in Uttarakhand were first permitted to work night shifts in the organised sector in November 2022, aligning their employment opportunities with those of their male counterparts. However, the government has now placed specific conditions on this provision to prevent misuse. The mandated night shift hours are defined as between 9:00 PM and 6:00 AM. The new rules are designed to boost economic participation among women while guaranteeing adequate safety provisions. If a woman wishes to work the night shift, she must provide prior written consent. This ensures that the opportunity for economic upliftment is truly voluntary, added a senior official involved in drafting the amendment. The government has also introduced stringent safety prerequisites that establishments must adhere to if they employ women during these hours: Minimum Staffing: Night duty cannot be assigned to a single woman. At least three female employees must be scheduled together for any night shift. Facilities: Separate rest areas must be provided for women. If a female employee has a child, the establishment must also arrange for a separate crche facility. Sanitation: Adequate women's washroom facilities are mandatory. Anti-Harassment Cell: Any workplace scheduling women for night shifts must compulsorily constitute an internal committee to prevent sexual harassment, as per existing guidelines. These layered protections aim to ensure that the expanded job prospects translate into meaningful and secure employment, effectively promoting gender equality in the workplace.

Badrinath Dham closes for winter after record pilgrim turnout

DEHRADUN: The sacred portals of Badrinath Dham, a cornerstone of the revered Char Dham Yatra, were formally closed for the winter season on Tuesday at 2:56 PM. The closure marks the end of a highly successful pilgrimage period, which saw a significant rise in devotees compared to the previous year. The solemn closing ceremony was conducted by the Rawal (chief priest), Amarnath Nambudiri, in the presence of a large gathering of devotees, adhering strictly to ancient traditions. The season witnessed unprecedented footfall across the Himalayan shrines. According to sources within the Badrinath-Kedarnath Temple Committee (BKTC), the total number of pilgrims visiting the four major Char Dham shrines this year surpassed 51 lakh, an increase of nearly three lakh visitors over last years figure of 48 lakh. This year's turnout is historic, despite inclement weather during the yatra, stated Hemant Diwedi, Chairman of the BKTC. The devotion shown by pilgrims, particularly at Kedarnath and Badrinath, has set new benchmarks. At the time of the closure of Badrinath shrine, the Char Dham devotees count stood at 5,106,346. Before the final closure, the temple premises were lavishly decorated with approximately 12 quintals of flowers. In keeping with tradition, the idols of Uddhav and Kuber were ceremoniously brought out from the 'Garbhagriha' (sanctum sanctorum), while the idol of Goddess Lakshmi was installed inside. A unique tradition was observed as Lord Badrinath was adorned with the 'Ghee Kambal', a special blanket enveloped in clarified butter, prepared by the local Mana Mahila Mandal (Womens Group). Following final prayers, the portals were shut. For the next six months, devotees will worship the presiding deity at the winter seat, 'Yogdhyan Badri' in Pandukeshwar. While the major shrines of Badrinath and Kedarnath saw substantial increases in visitors, travel to Yamunotri and Gangotri in Uttarkashi district was affected by recent natural disasters, resulting in comparatively smaller growth at those sites. The pilgrimage season officially began on April 30 with the opening of Yamunotri and Gangotri, followed by Kedarnath on May 2 and Badrinath on May 4.

Bangladeshi Woman Arrested In Dehradun For Illegal Stay Using Forged Documents, Hindu Name

Dehradun Police arrested a Bangladeshi woman for illegally residing in India. Police said she had adopted a Hindu identity and obtained multiple forged documents.

Bangladeshi woman arrested for illegally living in Dehradun using fake docs

Dehradun: Dehradun police have arrested a Bangladeshi woman living illegally in India allegedly using fake documents and a Hindu name. Police said that during Operation Kalnemi, a campaign against people living under false identities, the woman named Babli Begum (28) was found living in the Patel Nagar area of Dehradun under the false identity of 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 .

Uttarakhand turns to hydroseeding to tackle persistent landslides on Badrinath highway

DEHRADUN: Facing relentless landslides in one of India's top 10 most vulnerable districts, the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) is now turning to an advanced biological solution, hydroseeding, to stabilise a critical stretch of the Badrinath Highway near Kameda in Gauchar. This shift comes after earlier engineering interventions allegedly failed to contain the erosion that has long threatened this vital route. The 120-metre stretch near Kameda, located in the highly landslide-prone Rudraprayag district, experiences significant debris flow during the monsoon season. For over five years, the slope above the highway has continually shed soil, rocks and boulders, frequently disrupting traffic for hours. For more than five years, the slope here has been unstable. When the rains hit, large boulders roll onto the highway, stated a local resident, requesting anonymity due to the frequent closures. Previously, NHAI had attempted stabilisation using conventional engineering methods. Steel netting anchored by 6 to 8-inch iron rods (anchors) was installed into the slope before the monsoon. However, heavy rains led to substantial slippage, allegedly rendering the nets ineffective. Now, the focus has shifted to Hydroseeding Mulch, a technique involving the spraying of a mixture of seeds, water and fertiliser onto the slope. We are employing Hydroseeding Mulch to prevent further landslides in this steep terrain. We anticipate this method will be effective, said JP Sharma, Project Manager at RCC Developers, associated with the project. We are currently verifying the existing anchors before fully implementing this technique, as this method has proven successful in mountainous regions. Hydroseeding is an advanced bio-engineering technique designed to rapidly establish a protective layer of grass or vegetation on steep slopes, roadsides and mining areas. The mixture includes mulch fibres that bind the soil together, preventing erosion from heavy rain or wind, while the seeds germinate to create a living root structure for long-term stability. The urgency of this stabilisation effort is underscored by recent data classifying India's most vulnerable zones. Official sources confirm that Rudraprayag and Tehri Garhwal in Uttarakhand are among the top 10 most landslide-prone districts in the country. Apart from Rudraprayag and Tehri in Uttarakhand, the list of high-risk districts also includes: Kerala: Thrissur, Palakkad, Malappuram and Kozhikode. Jammu and Kashmir: Rajouri and Poonch. Sikkim: South and East Sikkim. The NHAI hopes that this biological intervention will finally stabilise the Badrinath route before the next monsoon season arrives.

Antara Senior Care Expands Footprint in Bengaluru with the Launch of a New Care Home in Whitefield

Antara Senior Care, part of the $7-billion Max Group operating a network of seven care homes nationally, has announced the launch of its new facility in Whitefield, Bengaluru. This 80-bed senior care home in Bengaluru's top IT hub and residential area strengthens the company's presence in Karnataka, where it now operates ~163 beds across Bannerghatta and Whitefield locations; nationally it now has 500 operational beds. The setup provides assisted living facility to meet seniors short- to long-term needs and specialised transition care services through geriatric-trained teams and infrastructure designed to promote independence and check loneliness. In Indias top IT hub, Bengaluru, multiple factors combine to fuel the demand for senior care solutions. The citys population is ageing faster than India -almost 11%1 of the citys residents are now 60+, they enjoy high life expectancy but are often managing multiple chronic health conditions. Theres also a change in family structures. With children living abroad, there is a rise in seniors ageing alone making adults seek specialised care solutions for their parents. The new Antara Care Home in Whitefield helps families meets these needs. Speaking about the launch, Ishaan Khanna, CEO, Antara Assisted Care Services , said, The period after hospitalisation and even the need for consistent daily care can be emotionally and logistically challenging, especially while juggling the responsibilities of daily life. Theres also a surge in the number of super seniors, aged 80+ years2, whose need for support is higher and vastly different from the more active seniors in the 60-79 age bracket. With Antara Care Homes expansion into Whitefield, we're not just adding beds, we're bringing medically supervised, dignified care to families who need trusted senior care solutions. Antara has been working dedicatedly to unlock access to specialised senior care ecosystems through geographic expansions and financial tools like TPA enabled transition careactive across all facilities in Delhi-NCR and Bannerghatta . The 80-bed Whitefield Antara Care Home offers short-, medium- and long-term living solutions for seniors who need assistance with activities of daily living as an outcome of ageing; the facility also offers short-term, clinically supervised, structured care after surgery or acute illness. It has state-of-the-art infrastructure for transition care, 24x7 nursing, specialist doctor support, geriatric-trained teams, in-house kitchen offering specialised meals planned by dieticians, physiotherapy, occupational therapy, and an engaging social calendar designed to alleviate loneliness and promote mental alertness. Like all Antara Care Homes, the Whitefield facility is designed to offer care with dignity, helping residents maintain their independence with necessary support. The expansion comes at a critical time as India's senior population is set to double from ~150 million now to over 350 million by 2050 creating new care demands. Antara has been at the forefront of building material and human infrastructure that supports this transformation. Operating a network of care homes across Delhi-NCR, Chennai, and Bengaluru with 500 operational beds serving thousands of families, Antara is known for its highly trained, professional teams upskilled using in-house geriatric-training modules certified by the Healthcare Sector Skill Council of India. Its NABH-accredited facilities are at the forefront of setting the gold standard for assisted living in India. www.antaraseniorcare.com About Antara Senior Care Launched in 2013, Antara is the senior-care business of Max India Limited, part of the $7-billion Max Group. It is an integrated ecosystem for senior care, operating in two main lines of business Residences for Seniors and Assisted Care Services. Antaras first senior residential community in Dehradun, comprising nearly 200 families, caters to their social, recreational, educational, wellness, and health-related needs. In 2025, it will open its second senior living community in Noidas Sector-150, with families moving into the 340 apartments built in the first phase. Expanding its footprint in Gurugram, Antara will manage senior living residences, dedicated spaces for senior living, and primary healthcare services at Estate 360 Delhi-NCR's first intergenerational community developed by Max Estates. Antaras Assisted Care Services include Care Homes, Memory Care Home, Care at Home and AGEasy. This line of business caters to seniors, who need more immersive interventions in their daily lives due to medical or age-related issues. With 7 facilities across Gurugram, Noida, Bengaluru and Chennai, Care Homes provide long-term care to seniors who require constant medical and nursing supervision, and short-term care services for the recuperation of seniors. Its Care at Home services, offered in Delhi-NCR, Bengaluru and Chennai, provide well-equipped, trained professionals offering care to seniors inside their homes comfort. AGEasy, an online and offline store, focuses on senior-specific products and solutions to manage chronic health conditions at home.

Five killed, 13 injured in bus crash near Kunjapuri temple in Uttarakhand

DEHRADUN: At least five pilgrims were killed in a road accident while returning from the historic Kunjapuri Temple in Uttarakhand's Tehri district on Monday. The incident occurred as the bus was returning from the Kunjapuri Devi Temple, located about 23 km from Rishikesh. Authorities confirmed five fatalities at the scene. Five people have tragically died in this accident, confirmed ASP J R Joshi of Tehri Garhwal. A total of 17 people were injured and rushed to nearby hospitals. State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) teams were immediately dispatched to the location, where the bus reportedly fell approximately 70 meters into the ravine near Hindolakhal. Five teams from SDRF posts, including Dhalwala and Koti Colony, were immediately deployed to the site, stated SDRF Commandant Arpan Yaduvanshi. The victims who sustained injuries are reportedly from various states, including Uttar Pradesh, Gujarat, Maharashtra, and Haryana. According to sources involved in the rescue, the accident happened when the bus lost control shortly after the driver started the engine. The vehicle, carrying 18 out of the total 28 passengers, subsequently plunged 80 to 100 meters into the gorge. Four women and one man were pronounced dead on arrival. Thirteen of the injured were initially taken to Suman Hospital in Narendranagar. Due to the severity of their condition, five critically injured passengers were later referred to AIIMS Rishikesh for advanced care. Local officials, including Tehsildar Ayodhya Prasad Uniyal and Deputy Superintendent of Police Surendra Singh Bhandari, rushed to the site to oversee relief operations. Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami expressed deep sorrow over the incident. The news of the bus accident near Narendranagar Kunjapuri Temple in Tehri is extremely heartbreaking, the Chief Minister stated. I pray that the departed souls find peace at the lotus feet of the Lord and that the bereaved families are granted the strength to bear this immense sorrow. I am in constant contact with local officials regarding the treatment of the injured. The Kunjapuri Temple is a revered spot, believed to be one of the 51 Shakti Peeths, where the chest (Kunj) of Goddess Sati is said to have fallen. Police have initiated an investigation into the exact cause of the horrific crash.

Bird strike at Dehradun airport: IndiGo planes nose damaged; all passengers safe

Raipur Diary: : Chhattisgarh forest department tops All-India Forest Sports Meet for 13th year

State leads in all-India Forest Sports Meet For the 13th consecutive year, the Chhattisgarh forest department maintained its supremacy at the All India Forest Sports Meet held in Dehradun. The forest department won the overall Championship trophy. The states indomitable 253-member team led by APCCF Shalini Raina with the sterling spirit secured exceptional results with 74 gold medals and 578 Championship points to stand at Number-1 position in India. Kerala (31 Gold, 357 points) and Karnataka (25 Gold, 326 points) secured 2nd and 3rd places. Such a victory for the forest department team is far more than a sporting milestone, setting new benchmarks of excellence at the national level. Pandum Cafe: A coffee shop with a difference A unique Pandum Cafe in Bastar is not merely a coffee shop but a significant plan to rehabilitate surrendered Maoist cadres and victims of Naxal violence. Launched at the divisional headquarters in Jagdalpur, it provides to those who once picked up guns and engaged violence with sustainable livelihoods. CM Vishnu Deo Sai interacted with the hired enthusiastic team who began a new chapter of hope and reintegration after returning to the social mainstream. As a part of the state governments rehabilitation initiative, the move signifies an innovative effort reflecting a potent journey from conflict to cooperation. Youths here have had training. Aadhaar-enabled attendance from Dec 1 In an intended push towards ensuring transparency, punctuality and administrative efficiency, the state decided to roll-out mandatory Aadhaar-enabled Biometric Attendance System (AEBAS) across all departments operating from the state secretariat complex. The new practice will start from December 1. All employees can register their IN/OUT attendance on their smartphones using Aadhaar-enabled facial verification. This mobile-based system is designed to offer convenience while maintaining biometric integrity. And the wall-mounted, thumb-based biometric devices have been installed at all major entry points of the Secretariat. Ejaz Kaiser Our correspondent in Chhattisgarh ejaz@newindianexpress.com

Mind your language, affluent teens, says CBSE

DEHRADUN: Officials affiliated with the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) have issued a stern warning regarding a noticeable decline in conversational etiquette and conduct among teenagers from affluent backgrounds attending affiliated schools, particularly in regions like Uttarakhand. The board is actively reaching out to parents, pressing them to closely monitor their childrens language use and the content they consume online. Dr Anupam Jagga, principal of a prominent institution in Haridwar and a CBSE Regional Coordinator, formally documented the concern in a letter. The advisory explicitly points to a troubling rise in the use of profanity and inappropriate material shared among students. The most worrying aspect is the sharp drop in the standard of language used, stated Jagga, referencing observations made during recent counselling sessions. He highlighted a candid admission from students preparing for the IIT entrance exams. These high-achievers acknowledged that their success was rooted in discipline and dedicating six to eight hours daily to self-study. However, he noted that this crucial time is increasingly being diverted towards online media consumption instead of books and newspapers. In the last decade, there has been a significant increase in students using abusive language in their casual conversations, Jagga observed. He identified web series streamed on Over-The-Top (OTT) platforms as a primary catalyst for this shift. Short-term observational checks conducted by the school reportedly confirmed serious issues, including habitual use of abusive language, harassment of peers, and the sharing of explicit or inappropriate content. Chetna Thapliyal, a law student, expressed dismay over the content creators priorities. OTT filmmakers need to realise that dialogue can be powerful even without relying on profanity if the story demands it, Thapliyal told this paper. It is unfortunate that their vocabulary seems limited only to curses. In this rush for monetisation, the content being served is eroding the speaking style and basic courtesy of the younger generation. Currently, I see no easy solution, lamented Chetna. Echoing the need for direct intervention, Arnav Gandhi, who recently qualified for NEET, emphasised the role of educational institutions.

Amid bear terror in Uttarakhand hills, CM orders free treatment for injured, doubling of compensation

DEHRADUN: Uttarakhands mountainous regions are currently gripped by a terrifying surge in bear attacks, escalating concerns for both the forest department and the state government. In recent months, the number of recorded attacks has risen sharply, prompting immediate action from the highest levels of administration. Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami held an urgent meeting with the Chief Secretary and Principal Secretary of Forests on Saturday. Directing swift measures, the CM declared, Providing timely and quality medical care to every individual injured in a wildlife attack is the state government's highest priority. He instructed officials that treatment must not be delayed and necessary resources must be made available immediately, with the government bearing the entire cost of treatment for those injured by bears or other wildlife. The government has already doubled the compensation for families of those killed in wildlife attacks, raising it from 5 lakh to 10 lakh. However, the statistics remain grim: over the last five years, bears have claimed 16 lives and injured 438 people in Uttarakhand. Locals in the affected hills are expressing growing frustration, particularly as attacks are now being reported in areas previously considered safe. Forest officials attribute the increased aggression to food scarcity, noting that a lack of adequate sustenance, including shortages in certain crops, is driving bears into human settlements. A recent alarming incident occurred in Harshil, Uttarkashi, where a Nepali national working in apple orchards was severely mauled. Hari Bahadur sustained deep wounds to his face and body before being rescued and rushed for treatment. Forest Range Officer Yashwant Chauhan confirmed the severity of the attack, stating the injured man was referred to the District Hospital Uttarkashi for specialized care. The fear is palpable. In areas like Bhatwadi, residents are hesitant to venture into forests for essential resources like fodder. Disaster Management Officer Shardul Gosai confirmed nine incidents in the district recently, resulting in two fatalities and seven injuries. Locals suggest this level of bear aggression is unprecedented in the last decade. The administration is now focused on enhancing safety protocols and public awareness campaigns amidst the escalating human-wildlife conflict.

Uttarakhand villages impose Rs one lakh fine on liquor, fast food at weddings

DEHRADUN: In a dramatic move to curb extravagance and preserve cultural heritage, 25 villages in the remote Jaunsar-Bawar tribal belt of Uttarakhand have collectively resolved to ban all forms of liquor and modern fast food from social functions, backing the decree with a stringent penalty of Rs 1 Lakh for non-compliance. The sweeping set of nine unanimous resolutions, finalised in a recent village council meeting, targets perceived social inequality and unnecessary expenditure associated with contemporary celebrations, particularly weddings. The resolutions cover the entire Khat Saili region. If anyone dares to treat guests with items like 'chowmein', 'momos', 'tikkis', pizza, or pasta, they will face a penalty of Rs 1 Lakh, confirmed a village elder following the crucial meeting held in Doha village under the chairmanship of Rajendra Singh Tomar. The ban is comprehensive. It strictly prohibits the serving of alcohol, including beer, at all marriages and celebratory functions. The community leaders emphasised that the primary goal is to foster social parity among attendees. People are actually happier with these decisions, noted a source close to the council, highlighting the unusual local support for such rigid restrictions. These measures are squarely aimed at preserving our traditional culture and preventing frivolous spending that often strains families. Instead of expensive modern tokens, gifting between the bride and grooms families will now be restricted to traditional staples. The customary exchange will now involve only goat meat, flour, and rice. Furthermore, the practice of a married daughter gifting a goat has been explicitly halted. In weddings, only goat meat, flour, rice, and traditional homemade liquor will be permitted, stated the resolution draft. The exchange of silver coins, dry fruits, and other expensive gifts has been strictly disallowed. This latest decree builds upon an earlier measure implemented in October within the broader Jaunsar-Bawar region, specifically targeting women's attire at functions. Previously, villages in Chakrata had imposed a rule limiting women to wearing no more than three pieces of traditional jewelry at weddings or other events. This restriction has now been adopted by the 25 Khat Saili villages. Under the new guidelines, women are permitted to wear only three specific traditional ornaments: the nose ring (phulli), earrings (jhumki or tungul), and a necklace (kandudi or mangalsutra). The Panchayat stated that all these decisions were taken with the objective of safeguarding traditional culture and imposing a check on unnecessary expenses, an official spokesperson explained. The collective decision sends a powerful message across the tribal belt: future celebrations must revert to indigenous culinary and gifting practices, effectively drawing a clear line against globalisations influence on their deeply rooted social fabric. Any family violating these nine new collective norms risks not only a hefty fine but also social boycott, as neighbors have agreed not to attend functions hosted by violators.

CBSE warns of decline in teen etiquette amid rising online abuse

DEHRADUN: Officials from the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) have issued a stern warning about a noticeable decline in conversational etiquette and conduct among teenagers from affluent backgrounds attending affiliated schools, particularly in regions like Uttarakhand. The board is urging parents to closely monitor their childrens language and the content they consume online. The concern was formally documented in a letter circulated by Dr Anupam Jagga, Principal of a prominent Haridwar school and CBSE Regional Coordinator. The advisory highlights a troubling rise in profanity and inappropriate material shared among students. The most worrying aspect is the sharp drop in the standard of language used, Dr Jagga said, citing observations from recent counselling sessions. He noted that students preparing for IIT entrance exams, while acknowledging the importance of discipline and six to eight hours of daily self-study, are increasingly diverting this time to online media rather than books and newspapers. In the last decade, there has been a significant increase in students using abusive language in casual conversations, Dr Jagga observed, identifying web series on OTT platforms as a major catalyst for the shift. Short-term observational checks conducted by the school reportedly revealed habitual use of abusive language, harassment of peers, and the sharing of explicit content. Reacting to the trend, law student Chetna Thapliyal expressed concern over content creators priorities. OTT filmmakers need to realise that dialogue can be powerful without relying on profanity. In this rush for monetisation, the content being served is eroding the speaking style and basic courtesy of the younger generation, she said. Echoing the need for intervention, NEET qualifier Arnav Gandhi emphasised the role of schools. Institutions must immediately start mandatory counselling sessions and classes focused on teaching students to overcome the tendency towards abusive language, he suggested. Guidelines for Parents: Dr Jagga outlined key recommendations for parents to help re-establish behavioural norms: Digital Dialogue: Engage in regular discussions about what children watch, share, or write online. Language Policing: Encourage polite and respectful language, including on digital platforms. Digital Footprint: Explain that every post or comment leaves a permanent digital record. Device-Free Zones: Set aside times and areas, especially during meals and before bedtime, where devices are prohibited. Balance Trust: Monitor social media usage while maintaining a healthy balance between supervision and trust. Promote Real Interaction: Encourage reading, sports, and real-world social engagement over excessive screen time.

AI cant replace books: CM Dhami stresses need to preserve local culture and languages

DEHRADUN: Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami on Saturday unveiled Uttarakhand Rajya Ka Naveen Rajnitik Itihaas (The New Political History of Uttarakhand State), a comprehensive book authored by senior journalist and acclaimed writer Jai Singh Rawat. The volume meticulously documents the political, administrative and developmental journey of the state since its formation. No matter how advanced AI becomes, there is no scope for it to replace books, Chief Minister Dhami said, emphasising the enduring value of literature while praising the effort to capture the states history in print. The Chief Minister noted that although extensive literature exists on Uttarakhands history and culture, synthesising two and a half decades of post-formation events based on facts, documents and analysis was a monumental task. Divided into five parts, the book is expected to be particularly useful for researchers, students and those preparing for administrative services. CM Dhami commended Rawat for presenting an authentic account of the states initial phase of political instability using rare documents and press clippings. Highlighting the seriousness of the task, Dhami said, Writing history is a serious responsibility requiring facts, vision and honesty. Jai Singh Rawat has preserved this era with journalistic integrity and fearlessness. Appealing for a cultural shift, he added, At any function, please give a book, not a bouquet, suggesting the practice would encourage greater interest in literature and inspire writers. Addressing the rapid growth of Artificial Intelligence (AI), the Chief Minister stressed the collective responsibility to safeguard regional languages such as Garhwali, Kumaoni and Jaunsari. Language, culture and customs are not just means of expression; they are the foundation of our identity and heritage, he asserted, urging students to promote literature and content in local languages. Dhami confirmed that the government is actively introducing initiatives to encourage and honour young content creators producing material in local languages, including writing, song collections, research and digital content. Concluding his remarks, he reiterated the irreplaceable value of books: No matter how advanced AI becomes, there is no scope for it to replace books. Books are not just a source of knowledge; they are a deep process of thinking, understanding and learning. He added that the government is prioritising the digitisation of local dialects to ensure these cultural treasures remain accessible to future generations.

Starbucks Coffee Company and Tata Starbucks Announce a Farmer Support Partnership (FSP) to Strengthen the Coffee Value Chain from Bean to Cup

Established under a strategic collaboration between Starbucks Coffee Company & Tata Starbucks, the FSP aims to empower 10,000 Indian coffee farmers by 2030 Starbucks will open its 500th coffeehouse in India this week in Delhi NCR a Starbucks Reserve location offering a premium and immersive coffee experience Reaffirming its long-term commitment to India, and its plans to deepen its coffee leadership in the market, Starbucks Coffee Company today announced the establishment of a Farmer Support Partnership (FSP). In collaboration with Tata Starbucks Private Limited, the FSP will connect local agronomists and farmers to global farming best practices through open-source agronomy. Starbucks Coffee Company and Tata Starbucks re-affirm coffee leadership and announce a Farmer Support Partnership (FSP) to strengthen the coffee value chain from Bean to Cup Strengthening Indias coffee value chain from bean to cup Starbucks Coffee Trading Company, SARL (SCTC), Starbucks global procurement and trading subsidiary, will collaborate closely with Tata Starbucks to empower 10,000 farmers by 2030. The FSP based in Karnataka will combine Tata Starbucks deep local knowledge, Indias coffee-growing heritage, and decades of Starbucks global agronomy expertise. It will support farmers from Indias key coffee growing states including Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh and Kerala to strengthen connections with Starbucks global network, drive innovation, and share best practices in farming and sustainability to ensure a sustainable future for India coffee. The FSP will set up technical model farms in partnership with farmers in India, incorporating global learnings, to embed best practices in coffee agronomy and test sustainable solutions. The FSP in India will serve as a hub for testing new varietals, provide knowledge on innovative farming techniques aligned to Indian practices and conditions, and share insights about other agroforestry initiatives to improve coffee quality, productivity and climate resiliency. The goal is to build upon traditional methods to help farmers improve both the quality of their crops and their profitability. The FSP will work closely with existing centers of excellence within the Starbucks global network. This includes partnering with Farmer Support Centers (FSC) in coffee-growing regions around the world, where agronomists collaborate directly with farmers on research, and learning from existing model farms within Starbucks supply chain. This network includes FSCs in the APAC region in North Sumatra, Indonesia and Yunnan, China and Hacienda Alsacia in Costa Rica, Starbucks first company-operated coffee farm and headquarters to the Starbucks Costa Rica Farmer Support Center and Starbucks Global Research and Development team. Through the FSP, Indian farmers will also benefit from Starbucks 2026 global digital training tools, which will offer detailed online modules on agronomy, coffee quality, and C.A.F.E. (Coffee and Farmer Equity) practices to foster ethical sourcing and ultimately enhance productivity and sustainability. It will also educate farmers about Regen-Ag (regenerative agriculture) practices and methods to reduce carbon, water, and waste footprints, and contribute to agroforestry and social development initiatives. The FSP will develop projects across the key Starbucks commitments of unlocking coffee productivity, increasing farm profitability and building climate resiliency over the next 5 years. To build capability and strengthen Indias entire coffee value chain, Tata Starbucks will also donate one million high-yield variety Arabica seedlings to farmers over the next five years. During his visit to India this week, Brian Niccol, chairman and chief executive officer of Starbucks said, India is one of our fastest-growing markets. Were partnering with Tata to shape the future of coffee in India, including supporting farmers, empowering communities, and delivering the highest quality offerings to our customers. Its a long-term commitment to build a stronger, more sustainable coffee ecosystem that benefits everyone, from bean to cup . Sunil D'Souza, Managing Director & CEO at Tata Consumer Products said, Through the past decade, together, Tata Consumer Products and Starbucks, have helped shape Indias thriving coffee culture and industry. With this new initiative, we are pleased to pair Starbucks global agronomy expertise with Tatas footprint in India to drive tangible impact and pave the way for the future of responsible coffee farming in India . Re-affirming Starbucks coffee leadership through differentiated and elevated experiences Since its inception in 2012 as a joint venture between Starbucks Coffee Company and Tata Consumer Products, Tata Starbucks has been dedicated to delivering the unique Starbucks Experience to customers in India. This has set the stage for Indias ever evolving and dynamic coffee culture. This week, Tata Starbucks will celebrate the opening of its 500th coffeehouse in India, marking a significant milestone in its growth journey and reaffirming its long-term commitment to the market. As one of Starbucks fastest-growing international markets, India remains central to the companys plans for strategic and sustainable expansion, with continued focus on job creation and meaningful development opportunities for its partners (employees). The 500th coffeehouse will be the second location to offer a Starbucks Reserve coffee experience in Delhi NCR, engaging coffee enthusiasts with an immersive experience that showcases Starbucks coffee craft, heritage, and storytelling. The coffeehouse and its Starbucks Reserve experience underscore Tata Starbucks commitment to elevating Indias coffee craftsmanship through elevated store design, handcrafted beverages, and locally inspired innovations. As part of the global strategy to make Starbucks a welcoming coffeehouse where people gather to enjoy the finest coffee handcrafted by skilled baristas, Tata Starbucks will continue to focus on creating a differentiated and elevated coffee forward experience in India. It invites customers to experience the full flavor profile it offers - serving the worlds finest coffee and elevated offerings in a welcoming coffeehouse environment that has made it a beloved part of Indias coffee landscape. Sushant Dash, chief executive officer of Tata Starbucks said, As the largest specialty coffee player in India, we are proud to bring the Farmer Support Partnership in collaboration with SCTC, a meaningful step toward strengthening Indias coffee-growing community and securing the future of high-quality Arabica. Our commitment to India extends beyond growth, to investing in farmers, partners (employees) and customers to continue building a vibrant coffee culture. We will continue to serve the finest Arabica coffee from India and around the world, brought to life through the warm, welcoming third place experience that defines Starbucks . About Starbucks Since 1971, Starbucks Coffee Company has been committed to ethically sourcing and roasting high-quality arabica coffee. Today, with more than 40,000 stores worldwide, the company is the premier roaster and retailer of specialty coffee in the world. Through our unwavering commitment to excellence and our guiding principles, we bring the unique Starbucks Experience to life for every customer through every cup. To share in the experience, please visit us in our stores or online at about.starbucks.com or starbucks.com . About Tata Starbucks Private Limited Starbucks entered the Indian market in October 2012 through a 50/50 Joint Venture with Tata Consumer Products Limited and currently operates more than 497 stores in India across 81 cities, Agra, Ahmedabad, Ajmer, Alibaug, Amritsar, Anand, Aurangabad, Bangalore, Bhatinda, Bhopal, Bhubaneswar, Calicut, Chandigarh, Chennai, Dehradun, Faridabad, Gandhinagar, Ghaziabad, Goa, Guntur, Gurgaon, Guwahati, Gwalior Haridwar, Hyderabad, Coimbatore, Indore, Jaipur, Jalandhar, Jodhpur, Kanpur, Kochi, Kolhapur, Kolkata, Lonavala, Lucknow, Ludhiana, Mangalore, Meerut, Mumbai, Mussoorie, Mysore, Nagpur, Nashik, New Delhi, Noida, Pathankot, Patiala, Pondicherry, Pune, Raipur, Siliguri, Sonipat, Surat, Thrissur, Trivandrum, Udaipur, Vadodara, Vapi, Varanasi, Vijayawada, Varanasi and Vizag are cities in India. through a network of over 4,437 passionate partners (employees). Starbucks stores are operated by the joint venture, Tata Starbucks Private Limited, and branded as Starbucks Coffee - A TATA Alliance.

NCW to hold national consultation on condition of women prisoners on November 22

NEW DELHI: Women prisoners, constituting 4.3% of the total prison population, face systemic barriers including overcrowded facilities and inadequate health services. Concerned with their condition, the National Commission for Women (NCW) plans to hold a national consultation on laws governing women in Indian jails. The national consultation will be held on Saturday in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands to identify urgent reforms needed to strengthen the rights, welfare, and dignity of women inmates across India. At the national consultation Laws Relating to Women in Prison experts, prison administrators, and policymakers will deliberate on critical reforms. The recommendations from the consultation will contribute to NCWs final report to the government of India. The flagship initiative is led by NCW Chairperson Vijaya Rahatkar. Women constitute 4.3% of the prison population, yet in many states they continue to face significant systemic barriers, including overcrowded facilities, inadequate medical and mental-health services, lack of gender-sensitive infrastructure, poor hygiene, and heightened safety vulnerabilities, according to a statement by NCW. To ensure inclusivity and representation, NCW conducted eight regional consultations in Noida, Panaji, Aizawl, Patna, Bhopal, Patiala, Hyderabad, and Dehradun. These consultations generated over 300 expert recommendations, of which 205 key proposals will now be taken up at the national consultation. Deliberations will focus on key legislations including the Model Prison Act 2023, Prison Act 1894, Model Prison Manual 2016, Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Act 2019, and the Repatriation of Prisoners Act 2003. Core themes include gender-sensitive correctional systems, improved medical and mental-health support, rights of incarcerated mothers and their children, safe accommodation for transgender inmates, and humane treatment of foreign national prisoners. The NCW Chairperson will also lead several important initiatives aimed at strengthening womens safety and empowerment at the grassroots. She will meet Lieutenant Governor, Admiral Shri Devendra Kumar Joshi (Retd.), at Raj Bhavan to discuss ongoing initiatives and the future roadmap for strengthening womens welfare across the union territory. She will also hold a review meeting with the DGP, Hargobinder Singh Dhaliwal, and other police officials to assess existing safety mechanisms, enhance policing responses, and strengthen institutional coordination for womens safety. A gender sensitization workshop for police personnel is also in the cards. The idea is to enhance police awareness, sensitivity, and responsiveness in handling cases related to women. Rahatkar will also hold a high-level meeting with the Chief Secretary and senior officers and will review women-centric schemes. Also, a review of facilities and rehabilitation support at the historic Cellular Jail is also on the agenda.

48 fake domicile certificates cancelled in Uttarakhand'after CM Dhami orders statewide review

DEHRADUN: A statewide review of potentially fraudulent domicile certificates in Uttarakhand has led to the cancellation of 48 bogus documents in Haldwani, following a directive from Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami to examine all such certificates issued over the past three years. The action stems from an ongoing investigation into forged documents after an initial gang involved in creating fake paperwork was exposed. The first phase of the inquiry, conducted by the Nainital District Magistrates office, focused on certificates issued in the Haldwani tehsil over the past five years. Early scrutiny of nearly 200 documents revealed major inconsistencies. During the first phase of verification in the Banbhulpura area, our team found suspicious elements in the supporting documents of 48 domicile certificates, Rahul Shah, Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM) of Haldwani, told TNIE. We have cancelled all 48 immediately. SDM Shah said the verification process is rigorous, involving cross-checking everything from the phone numbers provided to the authenticity of the supporting paperwork. The ongoing drive accelerated after a high-profile complaint surfaced during a recent public grievance hearing (Janta Darbar) conducted by Kumaon Commissioner Deepak Rawat. A complainant alleged that an individual who had recently moved from Bareilly, Uttar Pradesh, managed to secure a residency certificate in Haldwani using forged documents just two months earlier. Commissioner Rawat then launched a discreet inquiry, which traced the application back to a local deed writer operating within the Haldwani tehsil. This investigation exposed the clear involvement of middlemen actively facilitating fraud, a source close to the Commissioners office said. The probe led Commissioner Rawat to raid a Common Service Centre (CSC) in the Banbhulpura area. Officials recovered several incriminating documents, leading to the registration of a case against the alleged document writer, Faizan, and the beneficiary, Laik. Police investigations later revealed the alleged complicity of an employee from the Uttarakhand Power Corporation Limited (UPCL). Banbhulpura police subsequently arrested all three accused individuals, who have since been sent to jail. The administration has stated that the investigation is ongoing. We are scrutinising documents daily, SDM Rahul Shah added. Our aim is to conclude the verification of all targeted certificates within the next 10 to 15 days, the figure of which is expected to be around 1,200. Authorities are also monitoring several other deed writers suspected of involvement in similar rackets. Several have already been issued official notices by the district administration as efforts continue to clean up residency records across the district.

Uttarakhand: Elderly NRI womans ancestral land grabbed in Dehradun; 27 booked for fraud

DEHRADUN: A shocking case of land grabbing has surfaced in Dehradun involving an 80-year-old Non-Resident Indian (NRI) woman. A land mafia allegedly forged documents to seize her six-bigha ancestral property in Bharuwala Grant and sold it to multiple buyers. The woman, Neelam Misal, discovered the fraud after noticing construction activity on her land. She subsequently filed a police complaint, leading to the registration of a case against 27 accused individuals. Misal learned that her six bighas (approximately 5,400 square yards) of inherited land had not only been illegally occupied but also subdivided into plots and sold for crores of rupees while she was living abroad. According to police sources, upon returning to Dehradun, Misalwho currently resides in Maharani Bagh, South Delhi, and has lived in the US for many yearswas shocked to find the entire tract of land in Bharuwala Grant already developed, with houses, foundations, and demarcated plots in place. I couldnt believe my eyes, Misal stated through her appointed representative, Zeeshan of Saharanpur, who is handling the legal proceedings in India. My ancestral home was gone, replaced by a massive, illegal construction project. This was not just theft; it was a systematic, organized attack on my heritage. A probe into property records at the Sub-Registrars office has uncovered a large-scale forgery operation. Police sources say the fraud involved fake sale deeds and other forged documents that were meticulously planned and executed. Following the discovery, Misal registered a formal complaint at the Clementown Police Station in Dehradun. In a significant development, the police have filed a case against 27 individuals under serious sections related to fraud, forgery, and illegal land grabbing. Mohan Singh, the Station House Officer (SHO) of Clementown, confirmed the registration of the First Information Report (FIR). The complaint names 27 individuals, including key figures such as Sheikh Saad Ullah, Irfan Haider, Nadeem Khan, Sheikh Farukh Ullah, and Imran Faridi, among others, SHO Singh said. We have initiated a thorough investigation into all allegations of document forgery and conspiracy. Police sources indicate that the entire incident is being treated as the work of a highly organized land-mafia network operating within Dehradun and surrounding areas. Initial findings suggest that the gang has been actively involved in forging documents and seizing land, often targeting properties belonging to people living outside the state or abroad. The sophistication of the forgery suggests a well-established criminal enterprise, remarked a senior police official, speaking on condition of anonymity. We are currently tracing the financial transactions related to the plot sales and expect the investigation to uncover more individuals involved in this deep-rooted racket.

Leopard menace intensifies in Uttarakhand as 48 dangerous felines held in rescue centres

DEHRADUN: Wildlife activity in the diverse and heavily forested state of Uttarakhand, which spans 54,483 square kilometres, is increasingly dominated by the threat posed by leopards, authorities confirm. While tiger populations are surveyed every four years jointly by the National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) and the Wildlife Institute of India, accurate census data for leopards remains elusive, though officials estimate the population at roughly 1,200. However, recent trends indicate a significant escalation in leopard aggression, leading to some animals being classified as man-eaters. This increased ferocity has resulted in 48 leopards currently being held in four state rescue centres across Uttarakhand. The fear generated by these predators is widespread, affecting nearly every region of the state. In addition to the captured man-eaters, officials are actively trapping leopards observed near populated areas and relocating them to remote, dense forest reserves in an attempt to prevent their return to human settlements. Data on wildlife attacks consistently show leopards responsible for the majority of incidents affecting local residents. The animals are reportedly venturing into human habitations with the same frequency as domestic livestock. The rising number of attacks is a major challenge and a source of significant concern for residents, noted a senior Forest Department official. According to Dr Vivek Pandey, Additional Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (APCCF), only those leopards confirmed as man-eaters are being permanently housed in the rescue facilities. Leopards active near human settlements that have not been declared man-eaters are captured and released into distant, dense forests, Dr Pandey explained. The clear intention behind this is to ensure they do not return to the area from which they were captured. The inherent skills of the leopard contribute to its success as a predator, according to wildlife experts. Wildlife expert and former Forest Department Deputy Director Ranganath Pandey offered a concise profile of the leopards characteristics to this newspaper. Behaviourally, Pandey highlighted their versatility. They are excellent climbers, swimmers, and hunters, he stated, adding that their nocturnal activity, combined with keen senses and stealth, makes them formidable predators.