New data confirms tigers as more aggressive than leopards in Uttarakhand

DEHRADUN: In a surprising twist of perception, Uttarakhand's leopards, long associated with cunning tactics and frequent attacks in residential areas, are now often seen as less aggressive than the region's tigers. This public sentiment, however, is starkly contradicted by official human-wildlife conflict data spanning the last decade, which reveals leopards are responsible for significantly more human deaths and injuries. According to internal records from the Forest Department, the period between 2014 and 2024 paints a grim reality. Leopard attacks resulted in a staggering 214 human fatalities and left 1,006 individuals injured across the state. In stark contrast, tiger attacks during the same decade, while still deadly, accounted for 68 deaths and 83 injuries figures significantly lower than those attributed to leopards. The trend for the current year, from January to June, further complicates the narrative. Forest Department statistics indicate a total of 25 human deaths and 136 injuries from all wildlife attacks. Within this timeframe, tigers were responsible for 10 fatalities and three injuries, while leopards caused six deaths and 25 injuries, underscoring their continued impact, particularly in non-fatal encounters. In response to escalating human-wildlife conflict, the state forest department has intensified its mitigation efforts. A dedicated rescue operation, spanning from January 1 of last year to June 30 this year, saw the capture of eight 'ferocious' tigers. Of these, seven have been transferred to specialized rescue centers for rehabilitation, while one was released back into its natural habitat, reflecting a nuanced approach to conservation. The department has also issued 25 permits for tiger-related caging, tranquilization, and medical treatment. Significantly, the Forest Department has ramped up its efforts concerning leopards, capturing 44 individuals during the same period as the recent tiger operations. Nineteen of these leopards have been relocated to rescue centers for rehabilitation. Additional Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (Wildlife), Vivek Pandey, detailed the comprehensive strategy, stating, During this period, 124 permits were issued for caging and tranquilizing leopards. He added, Additionally, five permits were granted for euthanasia in unavoidable circumstances, and four for providing medical treatment to injured animals. Efforts to reduce human-wildlife conflict are being pursued at multiple levels, including the constitution of Quick Response Teams (QRTs) to address immediate conflict situations. Explaining the underlying ecological dynamics, Dr. Saket Badola, Director of Corbett Tiger Reserve, told the TNIE, The tiger naturally does not allow any other animal to maintain its dominance in the forests. Since the tiger is much stronger, the leopard does not go for conflict. Wildlife expert and IFS officer, Parag Madhukar Dhakate, further elaborated, Tigers assert their authority in their territories, intimidating leopards and compelling them to vacate the area. As a result, the leopard population in wildlife reserves, such as Corbett and Rajaji, has noticeably declined, potentially pushing them into human-dominated landscapes and contributing to the higher conflict figures.

Cloudburst in Uttarakhand's Chamoli leaves 11 homes along Moksh Gad on brink of collapse

DEHRADUN: A devastating cloudburst in Chamoli district's Nandanagar block triggered massive flash floods in the wee hours of Tuesday, causing widespread destruction. One cowshed was destroyed and 11 residential buildings have been left on the brink of collapse as their foundations have been compromised. Agricultural crops in the area have also suffered extensive damage. It all happened so fast. One moment we were in our homes, the next we were running for our lives, recounted Vijay Singh, a terrified local resident. We just grabbed what we could and fled, he added. According to the District Disaster Management Office, heavy rainfall caused the Sirpakh stream in Mok Malla's Bagad Tok area to swell, which led to an alarming rise in the water levels of the Moksh Gad, impacting Dhurma, Sera, and Mok Malla's Bagad Tok. The early morning incident prompted locals to abandon their houses and seek safety. Upon receiving information, District Magistrate Sandeep Tiwari dispatched an administrative team to the affected site. A team led by Sub-Divisional Magistrate R K Pandey conducted an on-site inspection. The administration's preliminary report confirmed that one cowshed in Dhurma village was completely damaged due to the surging Moksh Gad. Additionally, six residential buildings in Mok Malla's Bagad Tok, three in Dhurma, and two in Sera village are now vulnerable to river erosion. The administration has advised most of the affected villagers to relocate to safer areas and is currently assessing the extent of crop losses. Meanwhile, the heavy rainfall has also severely disrupted road connectivity in the region. The Sera-Mok Dhurma motor road is closed, the Nandanagar-Nandprayag motor road is blocked near Saitoli, and the Nandanagar-Bhenti motor road is obstructed at multiple points. Several other link roads in the area also remain impassable.

Rottweiler attack in Dehradun: Elderly woman critically injured, dog owner detained

In Rajpur, Dehradun, a 75-year-old woman was critically injured by two Rottweilers while on her morning walk. Police have arrested the dog owner, Nafees, who lacked the required license for keeping dangerous breeds and allegedly failed to assist the victim during the attack. Authorities are now enforcing stricter regulations on owning banned dog breeds following this incident.

Rottweiler Dogs Attack Woman, 75, In Dehradun, Owner Detained

Police on Monday detained the owner of the dangerous rottweiler dogs that attacked an old woman in Jakhan of Rajpur area of Dehradun and seriously injured her.

Rottweilers Bit Her Face, Legs, Ear, Arm, Bone Crushed: Dehradun Woman, 75, Battles For Life

We have thoroughly cleaned and operated on her left arm, but the risk of infection remains high, said Dr Yash Mohan, a senior orthopaedic specialist

Delhi-Dehradun expressway: Travel time to cut from 6.5 hours to 2.5 hours, set to link these 3 UP districts

Delhi-Dehradun Expressway promises to transform connectivity for commuters, tourists, and businesses across Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, and Uttarakhand.

Air passenger traffic across India soars by 6.6% in opening months of fiscal 2025-26

NEW DELHI: The total passenger traffic across airports in India has grown by 6.6% in the first two months of this financial year, compared to the corresponding period last year, reveals the Airports Authority of India (AAI). Srinagar and Amritsar airports, which were closed for some weeks due to the India-Pakistan conflict following the Pahalgam terror attack on April 22 this year, have reported a steep decline on the patronage front. AAI data reveals that 71.14 million passengers travelled during April-May of 2025 as compared to 66.73 million in the period in 2024. International traffic soared by 8.8% in the period compared with 13.4 million travellers compared to 12.31 million earlier. Domestic traffic has recorded a 6.1% growth with 57.74 million against the previous 66.73 million. A total of 5.54 crore Air Traffic Movement Movements (Arrivals and Departures) have been recorded in April-May 2025, up by 6.5% over the same period last year, the data shows. The freight traffic too has boomed with an 8.1% increase in April and May of 2025 over the previous year by transporting 643.47 metric tonnes. Airports which have been severely impacted due to Indo-Pak tensions were on expected lines - Srinagar and Amritsar. Passenger traffic in Srinagar dipped by a whopping 67.1% in the two months. Srinagar International Airport had a patronage of just 1,61,214 flyers as compared to 4,89,561 earlier. The Sri Guru Ramdas Ji airport in Amritsar too followed suit with 1,56,288 passengers in the first two months of this fiscal as compared to 2,75,837 last year. The top three airports in passenger traffic in the country continue to be Delhi (93,89,191 flyers), Mumbai (65,68,271) and Bengaluru (64,43,050). The KIA airport in Bengaluru continues its non-stop growth trajectory by recording a 6.7% growth over its performance in April-May 2024. However, Delhi has dipped by 1.2% and Mumbai by 0.5% during the compared period. Airports which have done significantly well over their past performance in the two-month period compared in succeeding years are Bhubaneshwar (25.5% over previous period), Tirupati (49.2%), Varanasi (25.8%) Kannur (33.2%), Patna (32.1%), Agra (77.8) and Agati (42.5%), Durgapur (37%), Bhuj (48.6), Cudappah (58.8%), Dharbanga (52.2%), Dehradun (29.1%), Cooch Behar (38.4%), Dimapur (27.4%), Gorakhpur (995) and Hubballi (37.1%), Jabalpur (92.2%), Jaisalmer (86.4%), Kanpur (57%) and Kishangarh (38.9%), Rajahmundry (46.3%) Nanded (28.3%) Kurnool (34.3%) and Shivamogga (85.5%)

Authorities Plan Pre-Registration System For Tourists Visiting Mussoorie in Peak Season

Dehradun administration plans a pre-registration system to manage Mussoorie's peak season traffic. Travellers must register before going to the hill station.

CA allegedly ran Rs 750 crore fake loan app scam using shell firms, Chinese links

DEHRADUN: In a significant breakthrough against inter-state cybercrime, Abhishek Agarwal, a Chartered Accountant and the alleged mastermind behind a massive fake loan app scam, was arrested by the cyber wing of Uttarakhand Police on Saturday at Delhis Indira Gandhi International (IGI) Airport. Police sources revealed Agarwal was arrested under a Look Out Circular (LOC) issued against him. His arrest has exposed a sprawling network that allegedly siphoned off over Rs 750 crore through illicit transactions. Investigations indicate Agarwal established a sophisticated web of approximately 35 to 40 shell companies to facilitate the fraud. Of these, 13 were registered in his own name, while 28 were in his wifes name. Several entities also listed Chinese nationals as co-directors, highlighting an international dimension to the racket. Suspicious transactions exceeding Rs 750 crore have been identified in accounts linked to these companies, which are now under detailed scrutiny. The syndicate allegedly operated by luring unsuspecting individuals with promises of quick and easy loans through more than 15 fraudulent mobile applications, including 'Insta Loan,' 'Maxi Loan,' 'KK Cash,' 'RupeeGo,' and 'Lendkar.' Once victims installed these apps, the fraudsters gained unauthorised access to their mobile devices, stealing sensitive personal data such as gallery photos, contacts, and other private information. Police claimed this stolen data was then used for blackmail and intimidation. Victims were subjected to threats of photo morphing and public shaming if they failed to pay exorbitant interest rates, penalties, and fines, leading to immense mental harassment and financial extortion. Authorities revealed the genesis of this expansive fraud network dates back to 201920, when Agarwal allegedly facilitated the entry of Chinese nationals into India to kickstart the operation. He himself travelled to Shanghai and Shenzhen in 2019, indicating deep international ties. This arrest follows previous significant actions in the same case. These include the apprehension of Ankur Dhingra, another alleged mastermind operating fake loan apps via Hector Lendkaro Pvt. Ltd., from Gurugram. In 2023, another resident of Gurugram was arrested, and a joint STF/Cyber team raided a call centre in Aurangabad, Maharashtra, recovering a Simbox and other crucial evidence. Upon his arrest, authorities recovered a mobile phone, a passport, Thai and Indian currency, a power bank, digital devices, rings, and an Apple Watch from Agarwal. He was wanted in connection with numerous cases across multiple states. Speaking to The New Indian Express , STFs Senior Superintendent of Police Navneet Singh said, This ongoing investigation, initiated in December 2022, targets organised national-level fraud through various fake loan apps, aiming to curb the harassment and illegal extortion faced by citizens across India. Uttarakhands Director General of Police (DGP) Deepam Seth stated, Uttarakhand is committed to making the state crime-free and will strive to curb cybercrime incidents more rigorously in the coming times.

Uttarakhand CM Dhami guides oxen, joins paddy sowing in Khatima; pays tribute to farmers and traditions

DEHRADUN: Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami swapped his official duties for the humble task of a farmer on Saturday, personally participating in paddy sowing on his private farmland in Nagra Terai, Khatima. The rare gesture was a powerful tribute to the unwavering hard work, sacrifice, and dedication of the state's farming community. Embracing traditional agricultural practices, CM Dhami offered fervent prayers to Bhumiyan Devta (the deity of land), Lord Indra (God of rains), and Meghraj (God of clouds). These invocations were accompanied by the melodious, culturally significant strains of the Hudkiya Baul, a folk instrument historically played in Uttarakhand's farmlands to seek blessings for a bountiful harvest. The Chief Minister's hands-on involvement in the sowing activity, coupled with his visible deep cultural connect with the farming community, generated overwhelming enthusiasm among local residents. It was truly inspiring to see our Chief Minister working alongside us, getting his hands dirty. It shows he understands our struggles, remarked Rajkishore, a local farmer. Observers noted that this inspirational initiative powerfully underscores the state governments unwavering commitment to recognizing and honouring the pivotal role farmers play in Uttarakhands economy.

Kailash Mansarovar yatra begins: CM Dhami hails faster, safer pilgrimage route

DEHRADUN: The revered Kailash Mansarovar Yatra officially commenced on Saturday, with Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami flagging off the first batch of pilgrims from the Tourist Rest House in Tanakpur. Interacting with pilgrims hailing from 11 different states, Chief Minister Dhami described undertaking the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra as a are fortune. He emphasised that the journey is not merely a religious ritual but a journey of spiritual and inner awakening, adding that pilgrims embarking on this unique expedition carry with them not just memories of the journey but also a profound sense of devotion. Highlighting the spiritual essence of the state, the Chief Minister affirmed, Every particle of this sacred land resonates with the presence of Lord Shiva. CM Dhami also lauded the transformative vision of Prime Minister Narendra Modi in making the pilgrimage more accessible. This pilgrimage is no longer confined to a geographical route; under the visionary leadership and firm resolve of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, it has now become a powerful medium to transcend borders and experience the divine presence of Lord Shiva, he stated. What once took seven days or more can now be accomplished within a few hours. Reaffirming his governments commitment, CM Dhami stated that Uttarakhand is fully dedicated to ensuring the journey remains smooth, safe, and comfortable. He detailed that comprehensive arrangements for health care, accommodation, meals, security, and other essential facilities have been strengthened at every halt to ensure a hassle-free experience for the pilgrims. The Chief Minister concluded by praying to Lord Bholenath for a successful, auspicious, and safe journey for all devotees. Pilgrims, in turn, expressed their profound gratitude for the warmth and hospitality extended by the people of Champawat. They also lauded the Uttarakhand governments exceptional arrangements, which they said made their journey memorable and secure from the outset.

Monsoon unleashes fury on Uttarakhand; halts Char Dham pilgrimage, leaves villages isolated

DEHRADUN: Uttarakhand is grappling with the relentless monsoon rains, it have not only severely disrupted daily life but has also brought the revered Char Dham Yatra to a grinding halt. Pilgrim numbers have plummeted from an average of 50,000 to just 15,000 daily over the past week, with the pilgrimage halted three times due to the hazardous conditions. Amidst the escalating crisis, Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Saturday telephoned Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami to assess the situation across the State, including the critical Kedarnath pilgrimage route. Shah assured the deployment of the National Disaster Response Force and the Indo-Tibetan Border Police to ensure the smooth continuation of the Char Dham Yatra. Given the severity of the situation, Home Minister Shah affirmed, he Central government's emergency relief agencies, NDRF and ITBP, are being promptly deployed. This is to ensure that the Char Dham Yatra remains uninterrupted and pilgrims face no inconvenience in their movement. According to district administrative sources, Ratgaon, the largest village in the Sol region with a population of 4,000, remains isolated for the 12th consecutive day. Residents are confined to their homes, and although ration supplies are currently adequate, health concerns are escalating. The village has over 20 elderly residents with health issues and 9 pregnant women, adding to the urgency of the situation. Elderly and sick people cannot reach the hospital, Manveer Singh, a villager, lamented. Pregnant women are facing various problems, including health check-ups, he added. Villagers are urgently demanding the construction of a Bailey bridge to restore connectivity to Ratgaon, after a temporary culvert at Ghatgad Gadera in Dhadharbagad was washed away 12 days ago. Major highways and rural roads across the state continue to be severely impacted by landslides and debris, making travel hazardous. Although Saturday brought a slight respite from the incessant rains, key arteries remain disrupted. District disaster management officer, Jai Prakash Singh Panwar, told TNIE, the Yamunotri Highway has been closed for the past eight days, with traffic still not fully restored. While movement has resumed at Silai Band, vehicular traffic remains halted beyond Ojri. The Gangotri Highway is also facing persistent challenges. A 25-meter section of the road near Papargad in Bhatwari collapsed again, halting traffic for approximately eight hours before the highway could be reopened around 2:30 pm. Continuous downpours are also causing persistent problems at Netala, Papargad, Bishanpur, and Helgugad. In Chamoli district, the Badrinath Highway experienced a two-hour traffic halt on Friday morning due to debris at the Ummatta landslide zone -- an area that has been a persistent problem for over a year, significantly impacting local businesses, including the family of hotel owner Ashish Dimri.

Uttarakhand panchayat polls: From IPS officers to Colonels, educated elite reshape rural leadership

DEHRADUN: Uttarakhand's upcoming panchayat elections are witnessing a significant paradigm shift, with highly qualified professionals -- from retired IPS officers and army colonels to teachers and IT specialists -- entering the fray, signalling a new era for rural governance. Voting for the two-phase polls is set to begin on July 24. Gone are the days when a village head was rarely educated beyond basic schooling. This election cycle sees a remarkable influx of candidates with impressive credentials, eager to serve their communities and test their fortunes in the grassroots democratic process. This ew craze, as local observers describe it, is attracting widespread attention across the Himalayan state. Amidst the usual political manoeuvring, two small villages in Uttarakhand Gunji in Kumaon and Birgan in Garhwal have set inspiring precedents. Their residents have unanimously chosen leaders whose lives exemplify service and dedication, completely bypassing the electoral process. In Gunji, villagers elected retired IPS officer and former Inspector General (Jails) Vimla Gusain unopposed. Similarly, in Birgan, Pauri district, retired Indian Army Colonel Yashpal Singh Negi was chosen as the Gram Pradhan without contest. This is not just a testament to rural unity and wisdom in democracy, but it also shows that people are now bringing forward capable and selfless leadership to change the direction and condition of their villages, Bhriguram, a local villager noted. According to election office sources, under Section 53(2) of the Representation of the People Act, 1951, a candidate is declared elected unopposed if they are the sole nominee. This tradition has been observed in various parts of the State before, particularly in tribal areas like Jaunsar-Bawar. A village in Nainital district has also consistently chosen its Gram Pradhan unopposed for years, with one past election even decided by a coin toss. Vimla Gusain, a native of Gunji village in Pithoragarh district, recently retired from police service and holds the distinction of being Uttarakhand's first woman Jail Superintendent. Colonel Yashpal Singh Negi, from Birgan village in Pauri Garhwal's Bironkhal block, returned to his village after three decades of distinguished service in the army. The ongoing nomination process for panchayat elections continues to reveal a diverse pool of highly qualified individuals vying for positions ranging from Gram Pradhan to Block Development Committee members and District Panchayat members. Kavita Arya, a private school teacher, resigned from her job to contest for Gram Pradhan from Basani village in Haldwani. Diksha Bisht and Vaishali Negi, both B.Ed graduates from Gaulapar, are also in the race for Gram Pradhan. Meena Pandey, who previously assisted her husband in business and politics, now dreams of becoming the Block Pramukh of Haldwani, confident her qualifications will benefit the local populace. Neelu Negi, a Political Science postgraduate who runs a SHG, is actively campaigning, aiming to make a significant impact in her area.

Dhami flags off bus carrying first batch of Kailash-Mansarovar pilgrims

DEHRADUN, July 5: Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami on Saturday flagged off a bus carrying the first batch of Kailash-Mansarovar pilgrims from 11 states at the Tanakpur tourist rest house in Champawat district. Welcoming the pilgrims, Dhami gifted them souvenirs reflecting Uttarakhands cultural heritage and noted that they were privileged to have the opportunity to undertake the pilgrimage. Not everyone gets the privilege of visiting Kailash-Mansarovar. It is not just a religious journey but a path to spiritual awakening, [] The post Dhami flags off bus carrying first batch of Kailash-Mansarovar pilgrims appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Uttarakhand sacks 234 doctors for bond violation, prolonged absence; recovery proceedings initiated

DEHRADUN: The Uttarakhand government has dismissed 234 doctors for prolonged absenteeism and blatant violation of their bond agreements. The action has sent shockwaves through the state's health department, which is also poised to initiate recovery proceedings against these bond-bound doctors. The Health Department has already begun the process of forwarding the list of these 234 doctors to the National Medical Council. Officials estimate that a staggering sum of up to Rs 2 crore could be recovered from the doctors as part of their bond obligations. Uttarakhand Health Minister Dr. Dhan Singh Rawat weighed in on the drastic step. Many doctors completed their MBBS studies in the state at subsidized fees but subsequently violated the terms of their bond agreements, Rawat told TNIE . Around 234 such doctors have been identified. These doctors have reportedly been absent from duty for extended periods without any official notification, leading to their dismissal. Rawat further elaborated on the terms of the agreement. As per the agreement with their respective medical colleges, these doctors were mandated to serve in the state's hilly districts for a minimum of five years upon graduating with their MBBS, he explained. The bond stipulated that failure to comply would require them to deposit a pre-determined sum and obtain a No Objection Certificate before pursuing opportunities outside the state or entering private practice. Despite these clear terms, 234 doctors assigned to the state's remote mountainous regions have remained absent from their posts without authorisation. This constitutes a clear breach of bond conditions and an act of gross indiscipline, the minister said. Sources within the Health Department revealed the breakdown of the dismissed doctors as approximately 56 from Doon Medical College, 95 from Haldwani Medical College, and 83 from Srinagar Medical College. Each of these doctors had signed a bond during their MBBS admission, committing to five years of service in the state's hilly terrain. Their original documents and medical certificates are reportedly still held by their respective colleges. Taking a serious view of the matter, the state government has directed the Director of Medical Education to initiate the recovery of bond amounts from all absent doctors, as per the terms of their agreements. In a related development, the Health Secretary has been instructed to seek explanations from Chief Medical Officers of the districts where these doctors were posted, as well as the in-charge officers of the respective hospitals. The inquiry aims to ascertain why local authorities failed to initiate timely action against the absent medical professionals. The dismissed doctors were assigned across various districts, with the highest numbers in Chamoli (46), Nainital (31), Tehri Garhwal (29), Pauri Garhwal (26), Uttarkashi (25), and Pithoragarh (25). Other affected districts include Almora (16), Rudraprayag (14), Champawat (11), Bageshwar (10), and even one doctor from Dehradun district who remains untraceable.

Two IAF personnel drown while bathing in lake near Bhimtal in Uttarakhand

DEHRADUN: Two Indian Air Force (IAF) personnel, part of an eight-member group on a trip from Punjab, tragically drowned while bathing in a lake near Bhimtal, Nainital district, Uttarakhand, on Thursday. Their insistence on taking a dip in the scenic yet treacherous waters led to the fatal incident. According to police sources, two IAF personnel from Pathankot, Punjab, along with six other friends, had arrived in Nainital on Wednesday. They were staying at a hotel in Sundarkhal, Dhari, with a pre-scheduled plan of enjoying the region's natural beauty. Bhimtal's Police Circle Officer, Pramod Sah told the TNIE , On Thursday, the group of eight friends went to Musatal, located between Parital in Belwagaon, Chafi, Bhimtal. Upon reaching Musatal, Sourabh Singh Nayal, Prince Yadav, Sahil, and Vijender decided to bathe and entered the lake without much thought. He continued, While bathing, Prince Yadav and Sahil went into deeper waters and began to drown. Sourabh and Vijender made strenuous efforts to save them, but their attempts were in vain. Following the death of their two friends, Sourabh, Vijender, and four other female friends are inconsolable, weeping uncontrollably. The trip now holds only bitter and heart-wrenching memories for the accompanying personnel. Local eyewitnesses corroborated that the two men lost their lives due to their insistence on bathing. Sub Divisional Magistrate K.N. Goswami and Police Circle Officer Pramod Sah promptly arrived at the scene, gathered full details of the accident, and initiated immediate relief operations. Relatives accompanying the deceased informed the police that they were staying at the Sundarkhal hotel. Police Circle Officer Sah reiterated that warning boards are installed by the police, and action is taken against those entering rivers and lakes. He stated that strict action would be taken against anyone found bathing in the area.

Kedarnath Yatra halted after landslide near Sonprayag; rescue ops underway, Yamunotri route still blocked

DEHRADUN: The vital Kedarnath Dham Yatra, a backbone of Uttarakhand's economy, has been temporarily suspended following a massive landslide near Sonprayag in Rudraprayag district. The decision was made on Thursday after heavy rainfall triggered a significant landslide at Munkatia, completely blocking the road to the revered Himalayan temple. Police sources confirmed that the Munkatia sliding zone was inundated with a large volume of debris and stones, rendering the route impassable and forcing authorities to halt the pilgrimage. Some pilgrims returning from Gaurikund were trapped in the sliding zone, but SDRF personnel rescued them and brought them safely to Sonprayag, said Arpan Yaduvanshi, Commandant of the State Disaster Response Force. As a precautionary measure, traffic on this route has been stopped for now. Commandant Yaduvanshi further confirmed the swift rescue operation: Around 40 pilgrims stranded in the Sonprayag landslide area while returning from Shri Kedarnath Dham were safely evacuated by SDRF. More than 40 pilgrims had been stranded since approximately 10 PM last night after debris suddenly fell near Sonprayag on the way from Kedarnath Dham. Meanwhile, the Yamunotri Highway remains closed beyond Silai Band for the fourth consecutive day following a cloudburst incident. While pedestrian movement is possible, it remains precarious due to ongoing risks. On Wednesday, approximately 254 passengers stranded between Syanchatti and Jankichatti were safely evacuated. Search and rescue operations are ongoing, with NDRF utilizing sniffer dogs to locate seven people who are still missing after the incident. The cloudburst near Silai Band and the overflowing drain at Ojri washed away a 20 to 25-meter section of the Yamunotri Highway. Seven individuals were swept away and went missing in the powerful current of debris and water at Silai Band. NDRF, SDRF, Police, and ITBP personnel are actively involved in the search for the missing and the safe evacuation of pilgrims. Around 263 pedestrians were safely evacuated and transported to Barkot by vehicles. The food supply department has arranged meals for stranded pilgrims at various locations, District Disaster Management Officer Nand Kishore Joshi said. While the National Highway department is undertaking repair work at Silai Band, the presence of hard rock near Ojri is posing significant challenges. In a separate incident highlighting the widespread impact of the monsoon, a massive landslide occurred near Ummatta in Karnaprayag. Around 1 AM, debris from the hillside descended directly into a hotel located along the highway. Fortunately, the hotel owner's family and staff managed to escape to safety. However, a taxi passing by at the time was buried under the debris.

Nainital HC sounds alarm on teen marriages, orders awareness drive

DEHRADUN: The Uttarakhand High Court has expressed deep concern over the rising number of adolescents entering into marriages and subsequently seeking court protection. The court deems the trend alarming and fraught with serious consequences, including potential charges under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act. The court had previously summoned Uttrakhand's Secretary for Child Rights Welfare, Chandresh Yadav, who appeared before the bench on Thursday. During the proceedings, the court directed Secretary Chandresh Kumar to prepare and present a comprehensive plan within two weeks. This plan aims to raise public awareness about the seriousness of the POCSO Act and address the growing issue of underage unions. The plan also focusses at sensitising parents especially, about the gravity of the POCSO Act, thereby enabling them to guide their children effectively. A division bench of the Nainital High Court, comprising Chief Justice G. Narendar and Justice Alok Mehra, observed during the hearing of one such case, stating, This trend is alarming and needs attention. The specific matter before the court involved a 19-year-old youth who, after marrying a girl of his age, sought court protection from her family. The bench noted with concern the increasing number of such cases where petitioners are often adolescents. While acknowledging the legal right to choose one's life partner, the court underscored that the growing tendency of marriages among minors makes it difficult for them to develop a sense of responsibility at such a young age. The court further highlighted grim scenarios where such marriages lead to severe repercussions. It pointed to instances where girls, later claimed by their parents to be minors, resulted in severe punishment for the young man under the POCSO Act, often leaving the married girl alone and vulnerable. In many cases, the court observed, he girl even became a mother after marriage, only for the husband to be jailed under POCSO, or the couple separated after maturity, leaving the child destitute. Such situations also encourage other crimes. The court also mandated that these awareness programs be implemented at the grassroots level through the Education Department, Rural Development Departments, Anganwadis, local administration, and para-legal volunteers in sensitive areas. It further emphasised the use of creative methods like plays and short films to effectively sensitise young adults about the issue. The next hearing in the matter will take place after the submission of the proposed plan.

Uttarakhand Govt. to force closure of food shops on Kanwar Yatra routes that dont display identity

DEHRADUN, July 2 : Uttarakhand government has said that it will shut down and charge a penalty of upto Rs 2 lakh on shops that lie on the Kanwar Yatra route and fail to display names of their owners and licence enroute Kanwar Yatra. The Yatra will be starting from July 11 onwards, state Food and Drugs Administration (FDA) issued guidelines directing shops lying on the route of the Yatra routes to make their identities public. Letter issued on behalf [] The post Uttarakhand Govt. to force closure of food shops on Kanwar Yatra routes that dont display identity appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Uttarakhand Government To Force Closure Of Food Shops Not Displaying Identities On Kanwar Yatra Routes

He added that a campaign to prevent food adulteration will be launched across Dehradun, Haridwar, Tehri, Pauri, and Uttarkashi districts during the pilgrimage season.

Owaisi slams pants check of dhaba owners on Kanwar route; SP calls religious profiling a form of 'terrorism'

All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM) chief Asaduddin Owaisi and former Samajwadi Party MP S T Hasan on Wednesday strongly condemned the alleged religious profiling of dhaba and eatery owners along the Kanwar Yatra route in parts of Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand. Owaisi reacted sharply to media reports suggesting that vigilante groups allegedly asked some dhaba owners on the Delhi-Dehradun highway to open their pants to verify their religion. There are several hotels near Muzaffarnagar highway that have been running for years. I fail to understand how there were no issues in these places 10 years ago. How was the Kanwar Yatra conducted peacefully here earlier? Why is all this happening now? Owaisi asked. Who are these vigilante groups asking hotel owners to open their pants? Are they running the government, or is the administration in charge? Police should arrest them, he said. #WATCH | Hyderabad, Telangana: On some media reports of Dhaba owners on the Kanwar route at Delhi-Dehradun highway asked to open their pants to verify their religion, AIMIM chief Asaduddin Owaisi, says There are several hotels near Muzaffarnagar highway running for several pic.twitter.com/TP4FYwOmoT ANI (@ANI) July 2, 2025 Former Samajwadi Party MP S T Hasan also condemned the alleged religious profiling of eatery owners along the Kanwar Yatra route in Uttarakhand by some Hindu outfits, calling the act a form of terrorism. The remarks came amid reports that members of certain Hindu organisations were allegedly checking the identities of eatery owners and staff, and targeting individuals suspected to be Muslims in several Uttarakhand cities. Purported videos circulating on social media reportedly showed volunteers coercing people to prove their religious identity. Reacting sharply, the BJP accused the opposition party of indulging in religious appeasement, but asserted that nobody has the right to take the law into their hands. Hasan, who hails from Uttar Pradesh's Moradabad, told news agency PTI, Asking hotel staff and local vendors to reveal their names and forcing them to undress to identify their religion is no different from what terrorists did in Pahalgam. This, too, is a form of terrorism. He alleged that such incidents are taking place openly while the BJP government in Uttarakhand was turning a blind eye. It seems the state government is silently supporting these acts. In a secular country like India, this kind of behaviour is shameful. It should be stopped, Hasan said. Hasan called for immediate intervention by the central and state governments to ensure that such communal practices are checked. Reacting to the SP leader's statement, BJP spokesperson Rakesh Tripathi said, People taking the law into their own hands is wrong, but drawing comparisons with the Pahalgam terrorists is extremely objectionable. In Pahalgam, terrorists killed people after ensuring their identity... If someone asks for the identity to check for pure vegetarian food in Sawan, how can it be compared with terrorists? Samajwadi Party can stoop to any level for religious appeasement, he said. The Uttarakhand government has made it mandatory for eateries, including food carts, on the Kanwar Yatra route to prominently display their food licences or registration certificates. Notably, similar directives were issued by the governments of Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh, and some other states in July last year as well, which the Supreme Court subsequently stayed . In Uttar Pradesh's Muzaffarnagar, police have summoned several activists associated with Swami Yashveer Maharaj over an incident involving the unauthorised verification of identities of eatery owners along the Kanwar yatra route, officials said. The Kanwar Yatra is an annual pilgrimage during the Hindu month of Shravan, drawing thousands of devotees. (With inputs from PTI, ANI)

Why pant check to prove religion now?' Owaisi slams reports from Delhi-Dehradun highway, says Kanwar route was very peaceful 10 years ago

Asaduddin Owaisi has condemned alleged incidents during the Kanwar Yatra where dhaba owners on the Delhi-Dehradun highway were reportedly asked to prove their religion. Owaisi questioned the sudden emergence of such issues, highlighting the peaceful operation of hotels in the area for years. He urged authorities to take action against vigilante groups, raising concerns about rising communal tension.

Hyatt Regency Dehradun Appoints Chef Vikram as Chef de Cuisine

Globally seasoned chef to elevate resorts culinary identity through a fusion of European elegance and Uttarakhands local flavours

Uttarakhand: ID mandatory for food vendors along Kanwar yatra route; offenders to be fined Rs 2 lakh

DEHRADUN: The Uttarakhand government has made it mandatory for all food vendors to display their photo ID card and their shop's license number in an effort to ensure safety and purity of food for the thousands of devotees. This will apply to all food outlets serving pilgrims, from large shops to small stalls. Authorities have warned of severe penalties for those who fail to comply. Violators caught operating without displaying the required identification could face hefty fines of up to Rs 2 lakh. Dr. R. Rajesh Kumar, Health Secretary and Commissioner of the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), has launched a special campaign against food adulteration. He emphasised that the ID rule is a key part of ensuring accountability for food quality. Every food business operator on the yatra routes including small vendors, hawkers, and street food stalls must now display their license or registration certificate along with a clear photo identity card. Failure to show this identification will lead to immediate action under the Food Safety Act, resulting in the Rs 2 lakh fine. Speaking to TNIE , Dr. Kumar stated, There will be no compromise on the quality of food served during the Kanwar Yatra. Knowing the identity of the person serving the food is crucial for trust and safety. Adding to this, Tajbar Singh Jaggi, Additional Commissioner of Food Safety and Drug Administration, warned, Legal action will be taken against anyone operating a food business without a proper license or failing to display their identity as required. The government is also using Information, Education, and Communication (IEC) methods to raise awareness among both the public and operators. This includes educating them on the importance of checking vendor identity, identifying pure food, understanding food regulations, and knowing consumer rights. Banners, posters, pamphlets, and social media are being utilised for this outreach. Notably, similar directives were issued by the governments of Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh, and some other states in July last year as well, which the Supreme Court subsequently stayed . In July 2024, a bench of Supreme Court Justices Hrishikesh Roy and S.V.N. Bhatti issued notices to Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Uttarakhand, and other states where the Kanwar Yatra is observed. The Court, in its order, had clarified: Food vendors, street hawkers, etc., can be asked to display the type of food being served to Kanwariyas, but they should not be compelled to disclose their names, the bench stated.

Uttarakhand reels under heavy rain fury; 15 missing, key highways washed away, orange alert in seven districts

DEHRADUN: Uttarakhand is battling a severe monsoon crisis with relentless rains triggering landslides, road closures, and multiple rescue operations. An orange alert has been issued for seven districts, while authorities search for 15 people missing in separate rain-related incidents. The incessant downpour and subsequent landslides are making rescue and recovery operations incredibly difficult. Rescue operations are underway to locate 15 individuals who went missing in two separate incidents. A Tempo Traveller plunged into the Alaknanda River last week, claiming three lives, and seven individuals are still untraceable. In a separate incident near Silai Band, six labourers went missing after a road was completely washed away by surging waters. The Rishikesh-Yamunotri National Highway in Uttarkashi has been entirely washed away near Silai Band and Aujhari, bringing all vehicular movement to a halt. The Kalsi-Chakrata State Highway in Dehradun district is also closed due to a massive debris slide. However, several key routes remain open, including the Rishikesh-Gangotri National Highway and the Rishikesh-Badrinath and Joshimath-Malari-Niti National Highways. The scale of disruption is significant, with a staggering number of roads closed across various districts due to debris. These include 15 roads in Uttarkashi, 11 in Tehri, nine in Rudraprayag, five in Pithoragarh, 48 in Pauri, two in Nainital, nine in Dehradun, 15 in Champawat, 21 in Chamoli, 16 in Bageshwar, and two in Almora district. District Magistrate Prashant Arya has taken charge, conducting an on-site inspection of the affected area and issuing urgent directives to joint teams from NDRF, SDRF, ITBP, Police, and the Revenue Department to intensify search and rescue efforts. He has also directed the Irrigation Department to expedite work on draining water from a lake forming in the Yamuna River. The immediate focus remains on the tragic incident that occurred late Saturday night, which affected 29 labourers . Of these, 20 labourers have been safely rescued, and three deaths have been confirmed. A continuous and desperate search is underway for the remaining six missing labourers. The situation remains critical, and authorities are working tirelessly to rescue those affected and restore normalcy to the region.

Explanation Sought From Dehradun DM For Breach Of Protocol For Speaker Om Birla

The state government is treating this matter very seriously: Department official

Stark example of dictatorship: Congress slams Mahendra Bhatts unanimous re-election as Uttarakhand BJP chief

DEHRADUN: The re-election of Mahendra Bhatt as the President of the Bharatiya Janata Party's Uttarakhand unit has sent ripples of surprise and concern not only among BJP leaders who aspired for the coveted post but also within the opposition Congress. Mahendra Bhatts unanimous re-election came after he was the sole candidate to file nominations for the top party post in the state. The formal announcement of Bhatt's re-election, alongside the selection of members for the party's National Council, was made on Tuesday during the Provincial Council meeting by Central Election Officer Harsh Malhotra. Confirming the details, State Election Officer Khajan Das told this newspaper, Former Chief Ministers Dr. Ramesh Pokhriyal Nishank, Trivendra Singh Rawat, and Tirath Singh Rawat, among eight senior leaders, have been elected to the National Council. The nomination process for both the state president and National Council members commenced on Monday at the state BJP office. Bhatt submitted his nomination papers for the president's post to State Election Officer Khajan Das in the presence of Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami, State In-charge Dushyant Kumar Gautam, and a host of other senior party functionaries. The Congress party has been particularly vocal in its criticism, denouncing Bhatt's continuous reappointment as a stark example of dictatorship rather than democracy within the saffron party. They assert that this move points towards an undeclared emergency looming over the party's internal functioning. Congress state spokesperson Garima Mahara Dasouni minced no words in her condemnation. Nominating only one candidate and repeating the same state president clearly indicates a severe lack of promising leadership within the BJP, Dasouni stated, elaborating on the party's stance. Garima further said, The nomination process for this election was conducted in a completely undemocratic manner, adding, There cannot be a bigger, more blatant mockery of BJP's 'one person one post' policy than this. She asserted that Bhatt's re-election had exposed the party's true colours. By repeating Bhatt, BJP's true face stands exposed before the people of the entire state, Garima alleged, questioning the integrity of the internal party election.

Suruchi, Saurabh win 10m pistol at national trials

Dehradun, June 30: Suruchi Inder Singh continued her remarkable form this season by winning the womens 10m pistol event while Olympian Saurabh Chaudhary took the top spot in the mens event on the final day of the National Selection Trials, here Monday. Both Suruchi and Saurabh also topped their respective qualification rounds with high scores [] The post Suruchi, Saurabh win 10m pistol at national trials appeared first on The Shillong Times .

Vodafone Idea (Vi) Announces Rollout of 5G Services in 23 More Indian CIties

Vi announced that it is rolling out 5G services in 23 more Indian cities, including Ahmedabad, Agra, Aurangabad, Kozhikode, Cochin, Dehradun, Indore, Jaipur, Kolkata, Lucknow, Madurai, Malappuram, Meerut, Nagpur, Nashik, Pune, Rajkot, Sonepat, Surat, Siliguri, Trivandrum, Vadodara and Vizag. The rollout will happen in phases. Vi 5G network was already available in Delhi, Mumbai, Patna, Chandigarh and Bengaluru.

Fourteenth judge recuses from case involving whistleblower Sanjeev Chaturvedi

DEHRADUN: In a continuing setback for whistleblowers in India, a fourteenth judge has recused herself from a case involving Ramon Magsaysay Award-winning Indian Forest Service (IFS) officer Sanjeev Chaturvedi. Additional Chief Judicial Magistrate (ACJM) Neha Kushwaha of Nainital stepped aside from a criminal defamation case filed by Chaturvedi, citing personal reasons linked to familial connections. The case, filed in November 2023, concerns allegations by Chaturvedi that Central Administrative Tribunal (CAT) member Manish Garg used objectionable language against him in open court on October 16, 2023. ACJM Kushwaha stated that she is related to another CAT member, D.S. Mehra, who often visits her official residence a connection she deemed sufficient grounds for her recusal. The familial link gains further relevance as Mehras bench had, in October 2024, issued a criminal contempt notice against Chaturvedi for initiating the defamation case. In retaliation, Chaturvedi filed a contempt petition against Mehra in November 2024. Uttarakhand CAT bench issues contempt notices to Cabinet Secretary, two top officials in Sanjiv Chaturvedi case Chaturvedi, who was honoured in 2015 for his anti-corruption efforts, has seen an unusual number of judges withdraw from hearing his cases 14 in total across various judicial levels. This includes two Supreme Court justices, two judges of the Nainital High Court, the CAT Chairman, one trial court judge in Shimla, and seven CAT members from benches in Delhi and Allahabad. The trend of judicial recusals has intensified in recent years. In February 2025, CAT members Harwinder Kaur Oberoi and B. Anand recused themselves from a matter concerning Chaturvedis appraisal report without offering any explanation, also instructing the registry not to list future matters involving him before their bench. A similar step was taken in February 2024 by Uttarakhand High Court Justice Manoj Tiwari in cases related to Chaturvedis deputation. This pattern stretches back over a decade. In 2018, the Uttarakhand High Court directed that Chaturvedis service-related matters be heard exclusively by the Nainital Circuit Bench, penalising the Central Government Rs 25,000 a decision upheld by the Supreme Court. The High Court reaffirmed this in 2021, prompting another legal challenge by the Centre, now pending before a larger Supreme Court bench since March 2023. Earlier recusals include that of then-Supreme Court Justice Ranjan Gogoi in 2013 and Justice U.U. Lalit in 2016 from a petition filed by Chaturvedi seeking a CBI probe into alleged corruption by then Haryana Chief Minister Bhupinder Singh Hooda and other senior officials. Both stepped aside without citing reasons. The frequency and opacity of these recusals continue to raise concerns about judicial impartiality and access to justice for whistleblowers in India.

9 go missing after cloudburst in Uttarkashi, very heavy rain alert issued in parts of Uttarakhand

9 go missing after cloudburst in Uttarkashi, very heavy rain alert issued in parts of Uttarakhand Dehradun, June 29 (IANS) At least nine people have gone missing while 20 others were rescued after a cloudburst near Silai Band on the Barkot-Yamunotri road triggered landslide in Uttarakhands Uttarkashi district on Sunday morning. The victims were working [] The post 9 go missing after cloudburst in Uttarkashi, very heavy rain alert issued in parts of Uttarakhand appeared first on Mangalorean.com .

Uttarakhand: Char Dham Yatra Suspended For 24 Hours Amid Heavy Rain Alert

Dehradun, Jun 29: The Char Dham Yatra has been suspended for the next 24 hours following a heavy rain alert, officials said on Sunday. Garhwal Division Commissioner Vinay Shankar Pandey said that the pilgrimage had been halted temporarily as a precautionary measure. I have given instructions to the police and administration officials to stop the pilgrims in Haridwar, Rishikesh, Srinagar, Rudraprayag, Sonprayag and Vikasnagar, Pandey told. The suspension followed a cloudburst that hit Silai Band on the Barkot-Yamunotri road in [] The post Uttarakhand: Char Dham Yatra Suspended For 24 Hours Amid Heavy Rain Alert appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

In a first, landlocked Arunachal officer to command frontline naval warship

NEW DELHI: Commander Ronie Chowpoo from Arunachal Pradeshs Namsai district has become the first officer from the state to command a frontline Indian naval warship in the Eastern Fleet, an official statement said on Saturday. His appointment marks an important milestone and serves as an inspiration to the youth of Arunachal Pradesh, the Navys statement said. Commander Chowpoo, a first-generation Naval officer, was commissioned into the executive branch of the Navy in 2008. A specialist in communication and electronic warfare, he has served on various frontline warships, including guided missile destroyers and frigates, the statement said. Over the course of his distinguished career, he has held key operational and staff appointments at Navy headquarters, fleet headquarters, and other strategic institutions, it added. An alumnus of Rashtriya Indian Military College (RIMC), Dehradun, and the prestigious National Defence Academy (NDA), Khadakwasla, Commander Chowpoos professional journey reflects determination and excellence. RIMC grooms youth from across the country to join the armed forces as officers. The Indian Navy has been organising outreach programmes to induct youth from across the country and Commander Chowpoo was also part of the outreach programme in the northeast. This newspaper reported earlier that a similar outreach exercise was conducted in the northeastern states in December 2022. During that programme, Navy personnel visited schools and conducted a 3,500-km-long motorcycle expedition. The events conducted in Ladakh as part of the Navys outreach programme included a public band performance by the Naval band, a football match between the Navy and the Ladakh UT teams, bike and car expeditions, and visits to various schools. Chowpoos rise from the Land of the Rising Sun to commanding a warship in the Indian Navys Eastern Fleet, also called the Sunrise Fleet, underscores a powerful story of perseverance and commitment, the Navys statement said. Congratulations have poured in for Commander Chowpoo and his family on this landmark accomplishment. The Eastern Fleet was born on November 1, 1971 as war seemed imminent and clouds of conflict hovered over the subcontinent. The Fleet played a decisive role in the maritime domain holding sway in the Bay of Bengal and strangulating then East Pakistan from the sea, contributing to the the surrender in Dacca and the capture of more than 90,000 prisoners of war.

BJP expels former Uttarakhand MLA Suresh Rathore for six years over public bigamy admission

DEHRADUN: The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has expelled its former MLA from Uttarakhand, Suresh Rathore, for a period of six years. The stern action follows Rathores public confession of marrying a second woman while his first wife is still alive. In a bold move, he held a joint press conference with his new spouse, Urmila Sanawar, where the couple openly announced their union. The incident, which unfolded in recent days, featured Rathore formerly the legislator for the Jwalapur Assembly constituency, and Sanawar jointly addressing the media. In an unprecedented admission, the duo declared themselves life partners. Rathores remark during the press conference, Urmila's love won, and I lost, quickly went viral, sparking widespread attention and criticism. The opposition Congress party swiftly seized the opportunity to attack the BJP, demanding immediate legal action against Rathore and his second wife under provisions of the Uniform Civil Code a contentious topic currently under debate in the state. This placed the ruling party on the back foot and prompted an internal review of Rathores conduct. Although Rathore later attempted to deflect the controversy by claiming that the event was part of a film shoot citing his new wife's association with the film industry, the BJPs disciplinary committee found his explanation unconvincing. On Saturday, the party officially announced his expulsion for six years. BJP State General Secretary Rajendra Bisht confirmed the development, stating, Former MLA Rathore failed to provide a satisfactory response to the notice issued on 23rd June. Moreover, he has breached social norms and party decorum, necessitating this action. Echoing the sentiment, BJP State Media Incharge Manveer Singh Chauhan added, The organisation was not satisfied with Rathores response. He was consistently found guilty of violating the partys dignity and social conduct. Acting on the directives of State President Mahendra Bhatt, he has been expelled for six years.

Heavy rains trigger major landslides across Uttarakhand, Yamunotri highway blocked

DEHRADUN: Heavy rainfall late Friday night triggered a significant landslide near Poligad on the Yamunotri National Highway, bringing traffic to a complete standstill. Hundreds of pilgrims embarking on the sacred Yamunotri Yatra have been left stranded on both sides of the highway since Saturday morning, facing considerable inconvenience. Heavy machinery from the National Highway Department has been deployed to the site, and clearance operations are currently underway to restore connectivity. Adding to the disruption, several other crucial routes across Uttarakhand have also been impacted by landslides and debris. According to the District Disaster Management Office, the Rishikesh-Badrinath National Highway is blocked near Sirobagad, while the Rudraprayag-Gaurikund Highway remains impassable near Sonprayag. Additionally, the Badrinath Highway has been obstructed by debris near Bhanerpani, close to Pipalkoti. Long queues of vehicles have formed at all three locations, with passengers waiting for a break in the weather. The Meteorological Department has issued a 'Yellow Alert' for heavy rainfall in parts of Dehradun and Nainital districts, while an 'Orange Alert' has been declared for Bageshwar district. Light to moderate rainfall with thunderstorms is also expected in other districts, with forecasts indicating that lightning and rain will continue across Uttarakhand until 3 July. In Chamoli district, relentless heavy rainfall since Friday night has severely disrupted daily life. The Badrinath Highway has been affected by landslides and debris at multiple points. Near Nandnagar, a pilgrimage vehicle became stuck in the Parthadeep landslide zone; however, all passengers were safely evacuated beforehand. Except for one or two locations, most routes have now been cleared, said Nandkishore Joshi, District Disaster Management Officer for Chamoli. However, the highway near Bhanerpani, close to Pipalkoti, remains blocked, with debris removal operations continuing on a war footing. The village of Thirpak bore the brunt of the intense downpour when the Nolaklana stream overflowed around 1am. The surging torrent and debris engulfed three cowsheds, tragically killing two oxen and seven goats belonging to local residents Balbir Lal and Garib Lal. Villagers sought refuge in a nearby government hospital to escape the rising waters. In response to the warnings issued by the Meteorological Department, Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami has urged residents of the state to remain vigilant. He appealed to the public to exercise patience and caution during this period of adverse weather.

Uttarakhand BJP to get new president by July 1

Dehradun: The Uttarakhand BJP will get a new president by July 1, state election officer of the party Khajan Das said on Saturday. Union minister Harsh Malhotra has been appointed as the central election officer for the selection of the new president of the partys state unit, Das added. The name of the new state Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .

Primary accused in Thane multi-crore forex trading fraud arrested from Dehradun

Nainital HC lifts stay on Uttarakhand Panchayat elections, seeks govt reply on quota irregularities

DEHRADUN: The Nainital High Court on Friday lifted the stay on panchayat elections in Uttarakhand, allowing the electoral process to proceed. However, it has directed the state government to respond to public interest litigations (PILs) alleging irregularities in the reservation roster. A division bench comprising Chief Justice G. Narendra and Justice Alok Mahra removed the stay after hearing multiple petitions challenging the reservation roster for the state's panchayat elections. The bench instructed the State Election Commission to issue a revised election schedule, extending the previous one by three days. The state government has also been granted three weeks to submit its response to the issues raised in the petitions. The petitioners have raised concerns about the allocation of reservations for Block Pramukh and Zila Panchayat President posts. They allege that several seats have been continuously reserved for the same category over an extended period, which they argue contravenes Article 243 of the Constitution and various Supreme Court rulings. Representing the state, Advocate General Surya Narayan Babulkar and Chief Standing Counsel C.D. Rawat defended the new reservation roster. Advocate General Babulkar stated, It was necessary to invalidate the previous reservation roster following the report from the National Commission for Backward Classes (NCBC) and to issue a new one for the current elections. Rawat added that the revised roster ensures compliance with legal mandates after the earlier one was deemed invalid. The High Court had initially stayed the panchayat elections on 23 June, even though the State Election Commission had already issued its election notification. Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) State President Mahendra Bhatt welcomed the courts decision, expressing satisfaction that the path has now been cleared for the formation of rural self-governments. Bhatt also criticised the Congress party, accusing it of obstructing the electoral process. The Congress party had been creating hurdles in the way of elections and then, ironically, blamed the government for delays, Bhatt said. The High Courts decision is a clear slap in their face.

Propping Hollywood epics: Dehradun company arms Game of Thrones and other fantasy shows

Dehradun, June 26: The blood-soaked world of Game of Thrones is far removed from the Lord of Battles, one an epic fantasy series and the other a cleverly named company headquartered in a quiet Indian hill town. And unlikely as it may sound, the Hollywood-Dehradun connect is solid, quite as much as the armour worn []

Udaipur familys Char Dham pilgrimage ends in tragedy as tempo traveller plunges into Alaknanda; 12 feared dead

DEHRADUN: A devastating accident unfolded on Thursday morning in Uttarakhands Rudraprayag district when a Tempo Traveller carrying a family of pilgrims from Udaipur, Rajasthan, lost control and plunged into the Alaknanda River. The vehicle, with 20 members of the same family on a Char Dham Yatra, was swept away by the rivers powerful currents. According to the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), three bodies have been recovered so far, identified as Vishal Soni (41), Dreamy (17), and Gauri Soni (41). Nine pilgrims remain missing, while eight injured individuals have been hospitalised four of them in critical condition. SDRF Commandant Arpan Yaduvanshi confirmed that, despite extensive efforts, the submerged Tempo Traveller has yet to be located in the river. We received information about the accident around 7:30 AM. Our teams, along with the police and district administration, immediately launched a rescue operation with the help of divers, Yaduvanshi stated. However, the strong currents and inaccessible terrain are posing significant difficulties in our relief efforts. District Disaster Management Officer Nandan Singh Rajwar provided an update on the casualties, saying, Three individuals have succumbed to their injuries, including two women. Eight injured have been airlifted to AIIMS Rishikesh for treatment. Eyewitnesses described the harrowing moments as the vehicle plunged into the river. Three individuals were reportedly flung out of the Tempo Traveller upon impact and were immediately rushed to hospital in critical condition. The fate of the remaining passengers remains uncertain, with fears that many were swept away by the rivers treacherous currents. In a grim discovery, one body was found approximately 8 kilometres downstream at Shivpuri, highlighting the force of the river. SDRF Sub-Inspector Jagmohan Singh stated, We are intensifying the search operation in the Alaknanda with assistance from police and local administration teams. However, the challenging terrain and strong currents are hampering our efforts. The search operation continued late into the night, with SDRF teams working tirelessly to locate the submerged vehicle and the missing pilgrims. The tragedy has sent shockwaves through the local and pilgrim communities, and authorities are providing support to the bereaved families. Five Dead, Several Injured in Separate Road Accidents In a tragic day for Uttarakhand, five people lost their lives and several were injured in four separate road accidents across the hilly state. In Dehradun, three individuals were killed and one seriously injured when a car veered off the Kalsi-Chakrata road and plunged into a deep gorge. The survivor was rushed to hospital in critical condition. In Chamoli district, two men Ankush Chauhan (32) and Pradeep Negi (33) died after their car fell into a gorge in the remote Niti Valley. Elsewhere, on the Rishikesh-Badrinath Highway, a collision between a bus and a car injured three members of a family from Delhi: Ajeet Singh (41), his wife Usha Rani (41), and daughter Kanak (16). They were treated at the Community Health Centre in Pali. Police have launched investigations into the causes of the accidents, which have underscored the dangers of travel on Uttarakhands often treacherous mountain roads.

11 feared dead after vehicle carrying pilgrims from Udaipur plunges into Alaknanda river in Uttarakhand

DEHRADUN: A family of pilgrims from Udaipur, Rajasthan, on a Char Dham Yatra met with tragedy on Thursday morning when their Tempo Traveller lost control and plunged into the Alaknanda River in Uttarakhands Rudraprayag district. Initial reports suggest that at least 11 people are feared dead in the horrific incident, though only two bodies have been recovered so far. The vehicle, reportedly carrying 17 members of the same family, was completely submerged in the fast-flowing Alaknanda, making rescue operations extremely challenging due to the strong currents, officials from the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) said. SDRF divers, along with police and district administration teams, have launched extensive relief and rescue operations to retrieve the missing and those feared trapped. SDRF Commandant Arpan Yaduvanshi confirmed the details to TNIE , Around 7:30 am on Thursday, near Ghoolteer on the RishikeshBadrinath Highway in Rudraprayag district, a Tempo Traveller lost control and plunged directly into the Alaknanda River. All 17 occupants of the vehicle were from the same family, hailing from Udaipur, Rajasthan, and were on a pilgrimage. Upon receiving news of the accident, teams from the police, SDRF, and district administration swiftly arrived at the scene and launched a rescue operation with the assistance of divers. SDRF divers, along with police and district administration teams, have launched extensive relief and rescue operations to retrieve the missing and those feared trapped. Providing an update on the casualties, District Disaster Management Officer Nandan Singh Rajwar told this newspaper, As of now, nine individuals have been rescued, two of whom have unfortunately succumbed to their injuries. One of the deceased is a woman. Eight injured individuals have been rushed to the district hospital; several young children are among the injured. Eyewitnesses recounted the harrowing moments, stating that three individuals were flung out of the vehicle upon impact and were immediately rushed to the hospital in critical condition.The fate of the remaining passengers remains uncertain, with fears that many were swept away by the rivers treacherous currents. In a grim discovery, one body was found approximately 8 kilometres downstream at Shivpuri, underlining the force of the river. SDRF Sub-Inspector Jagmohan Singh told this newspaper, With the assistance of police and local administration teams, the SDRF has intensified the search operation in the Alaknanda River. However, the strong currents and the inaccessible terrain are posing significant difficulties in our relief efforts. The search operation continues amidst adverse conditions.

VP Dhankhar collapses at function in Nainital, recovers soon after

DEHRADUN, June 25 : Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar collapsed during the golden jubilee function of Kumaon University in Nainital today as he turned emotional while meeting his old-time parliamentary colleague Dr Mahendra Pal. The VP however returned to normal soon after, and was found hale and hearty as a team of doctors examined him at the event venue. Vice President Dhankhar was the chief guest at Kumaon Universitys Golden Jubilee celebrations in Nainital on the first day of his three-day [] The post VP Dhankhar collapses at function in Nainital, recovers soon after appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Anish, Sift and Umamahesh win in national selection trials

DEHRADUN, June 25: Olympians Anish Bhanwala, Sift Kaur Samra and junior world championship medallist Umamahesh Maddineni won the national selection trials (T3) for Group A athletes in the mens 25m rapid fire, womens 50m 3 positions and 10m air rifle events respectively, here on Wednesday. The trials are being held at the Trishul Shooting Range [] The post Anish, Sift and Umamahesh win in national selection trials appeared first on The Shillong Times .

Emergency darkest chapter in history of democratic India: Dhami

Dehradun: Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami on Wednesday described the Emergency as the darkest chapter in Indias democratic history, saying it was a time when the government of the day tried to crush the soul of the Constitution. Addressing a gathering of people who stood against the Emergency, Dhami said it was the result Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .

DG information appointed additional secretary to Uttarakhand CM

Dehradun, Jun 25 (PTI) Director General of Information and Public Relations, Banshidhar Tiwari, was on Wednesday given the additional charge of additional secretary to Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami. Tiwari is also the vice president of the Mussoorie-Dehradun Development Authority. A PCS officer of the 2006 batch, Tiwari was promoted to the Indian Administrative Service (IAS) in 2016.

VP Dhankhar collapses during event in Nainital; condition now stable

DEHRADUN: Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar collapsed suddenly in Haldwani on Wednesday during his three-day Uttarakhand tour. After receiving primary medical treatment, he was escorted to the Nainital Raj Bhavan by Governor Lt Gen Gurmit Singh (retd). Sources close to the administration revealed that the Vice President had arrived as the chief guest for Kumaon University's 50th-anniversary celebrations. His health unexpectedly deteriorated shortly after the event concluded. Earlier in the day, Governor Lt Gen Gurmit Singh (retd) had welcomed him at the Haldwani Army Helipad upon his arrival for the tour. During the Golden Jubilee ceremony at Kumaon University in Nainital, Vice President Dhankhar delivered a 45-minute address as the chief guest. He repeatedly referred to Dr. Mahendra Singh Pal, a former Member of Parliament who had served alongside him in 1989. Following his address, the Vice President descended from the stage and immediately embraced Dr. Pal. The two men conversed for approximately five minutes, reminiscing about their past. Dr. Pal became visibly emotional, shedding tears, and subsequently, Vice President Dhankhar also became tearful while still embracing his old colleague. It was during this poignant moment that Vice President Dhankhar's health took a sudden turn for the worse, as he collapsed while still in Dr. Pal's embrace. An on-site team of physicians promptly administered primary medical care. He was then transported to the Raj Bhavan alongside Governor Gurmit Singh. Medical professionals later confirmed that he Vice President's condition is now stable. Earlier, a host of dignitaries, including Cabinet Minister Rekha Arya (representing the Chief Minister), MP Ajay Bhatt, Haldwani Mayor Gajraj Bisht, Vice Chairman of the Forest and Environment Advisory Committee Deepak Mehra, Kumaon Commissioner Deepak Rawat, IG Riddhim Aggarwal, District Magistrate Vandana, and SSP Prahlad Narayan Meena, had extended a warm welcome to the Vice President.

Blog: Blog | This Dehradun Workshop Makes Armour For Game Of Thrones, House Of The Dragon. And We Had No Idea

You do not expect to find the soul of House of the Dragon tucked away in Uttarakhand - but there it was. Not behind velvet ropes or inside a studio lot, but laid out on workbenches, half-built and very real.

Dehradun Diary | 1st FASTag barrier in high Himalayan region opens

A FASTag barrier has been made operational near the Badrinath Dham at a staggering altitude of 10,279 feet a first in a high Himalayan region. The new system allows for digital payment of ecotourism fees for all passenger vehicles. District Magistrate Sandeep Tewari virtually inaugurated the barrier. Highlighting the need for the barrier, he expressed, A manual collection (of fees) meant long queues of vehicles, causing inconvenience to the pilgrims. He had long advocated for its installation in the area in line with the NHIDCL guidelines to streamline pilgrim movement. States charm captivates foreign dignitaries A delegation of ambassadors and high commissioners from eight nations that arrived in Bhararisain, Uttarakhands summer capital, on International Yoga Day were left spellbound by the regions pristine natural beauty, lush green valleys and clean environment. And why wouldnt they be? Upon their arrival at the Assembly complex, the dignitaries were greeted with a vibrant display of the hill states rich folk culture a Chholiya dance performance. Mesmerised by the scenic vistas and traditional welcome, the guests waxed poetic about Gairsain, describing the unique blend of culture and natural splendour as rich in every aspect. Election proceedings for panchayat polls put off Uttarakhand State Election Commissioner Sushil Kumar has indefinitely postponed all election proceedings, including nominations for the proposed three-tier panchayat elections. The decision follows an order of the Uttarakhand High Court issued on Monday. In the case of Ganesh Dutt Kandpal vs the State of Uttarakhand, the court ruled that due to the promulgation of reservation rules for panchayat elections not being notified, reservation determination and the entire proceedings related to it are postponed till further orders. The nominations were originally scheduled to be held from Wednesday to Saturday. Narendra sethi Our correspondent in Uttarakhand narendrasethi@newindianexpress.com

Kashmirs fragrant lavender heads to Dehradun in first-ever export from Valley

Suhail Bhat Anantnag, June 23: In a major milestone for Kashmirs aromatic crop sector, the regions fragrant lavender is set to make its debut in Dehradun, Uttarakhand, as the Agriculture Department dispatches its first-ever consignment of the purple blooms outside the Valley. The historic export is being carried out from a sprawling lavender farm in Sirhama, a remote village in south Kashmirs Anantnag district, managed by the Agriculture Production and Farmers Welfare Department. Spread across 640 kanals, the farm has [] The post Kashmirs fragrant lavender heads to Dehradun in first-ever export from Valley appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Four killed, one injured as car rams into cement trailer in Dehradun

DEHRADUN: Four young men were killed and one critically injured in a horrific road accident at the Asharodi Checkpost in Dehradun in the wee hours of Sunday. The deceased has been identified as Ankush, Vinay, and Paras from Sonipat district, and Naveen from Rohtak, all in Haryana. Ankit Kumar, from Jind, Haryana, sustained critical injuries and has been admitted to the hospital. According to the police, the five youths were reportedly heading to Uttarakhand from Saharanpur when their car crashed onto a cement trailer. The impact of the collision was so severe that four occupants of the car died on the spot. The fifth occupant sustained critical injuries and was rushed to a hospital. Speaking to TNIE, Clement Town Police Station SHO Mohan Singh said that they have initiated an inquiry into the incident, and are currently questioning the truck driver. Further action will be taken based on a complaint from the victim's family, he added.

Uttarakhand HC slams state over Kedarnath chopper crashes, demands concrete safety plan

DEHRADUN: The Uttarakhand High Court has taken suo motu cognisance of the recent spike in helicopter accidents during the sacred Char Dham Yatra, orally demanding the state government explain the recurring incidents and formulate a robust safety policy for chopper services. This sharp judicial intervention comes as helicopter services to the revered Kedarnath shrine remain suspended for the sixth consecutive day due to adverse weather, leading to thousands of cancelled tickets. A division bench comprising Chief Justice G. Narendar and Justice Alok Mehra, during a crucial hearing, questioned the state government over frequent helicopter crashes, seeking explanations for what flaws exist or who is responsible for these incidents? Emphasising the paramount importance of pilgrim safety, the bench directed the government to establish a comprehensive and definitive policy for helicopter operations, particularly in the treacherous high-altitude regions of Char Dham. Kedarnath helicopter crash: Case registered against private helicopter firm The High Court highlighted the unique challenges of the Kedarnath Valley, a high Himalayan region known for its sudden and unpredictable weather shifts. It stressed the critical need for aviation companies to possess thorough knowledge of both mountain and plain weather patterns, as well as prevalent fog conditions. After rain, these areas often become dry, necessitating special caution during flight, the court noted. During the hearing, the state government informed the court of its decision to temporarily halt helicopter services on the Char Dham route, acknowledging the precarious situation and prioritising passenger safety. The High Court, while acknowledging this measure, reiterated its directive for the government to devise a solid safety policy to prevent the recurrence of such unfortunate incidents in the future. Meanwhile, aviation sources confirmed that for the sixth consecutive day, helicopters from six different companies have been unable to take off for Kedarnath from various helipads. This unprecedented halt has resulted in the cancellation of over 5,430 passenger tickets cumulatively over the past six days. With the imminent arrival of the monsoon season, all six helicopter companies are reportedly set to withdraw their operations from the Kedarnath Valley by Monday. The current suspension follows a tragic accident on 15 June, when an Aryan Heli Aviation helicopter crashed, claiming seven lives, including the pilot. This incident prompted the Directorate General of Civil Aviation to immediately impose a two-day ban, which has since been extended due to persistent inclement weather. No helicopter has operated in the region since the crash. Rahul Choubey, the Nodal Officer for Kedarnath Yatra helicopter services, confirmed the significant disruption, stating, Due to the non-operation of helicopters, between 850 and 900 tickets are being cancelled daily. The High Courts intervention underscores the urgent need for enhanced safety protocols to safeguard pilgrims undertaking one of Indias most challenging and revered spiritual journeys.

Credit-based evaluation system to assess students' Yoga performance to be set in Haryana govt schools, 'Yoga Break' to be introduced in all govt offices

CHANDIAGARH: A credit-based evaluation system for assessing students Yoga performance in all government schools will be introduced in Haryana, and a uniform yoga curriculum will soon be implemented in all universities and colleges across the State. Besides, a five-minute 'Yoga Break' will be introduced in all government offices, On the 11th International Yoga Day, over one lakh people gathered at the sacred Brahma Sarovar in Kurukshetra for the State-level event, and nearly 20 lakh participants joined the yoga sessions held across 22 districts and 121 blocks of the State. Addressing a State-level function, Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini announced that a 'Yoga Writer Incentive Scheme' will be launched to promote Yoga research in universities, with outstanding authors to be honoured annually. Additionally, 100 new 'Yoga evam Vyayamshalas' will be established this financial year. Currently, there are 883 Vyayamshalas already operating in the State. An international meditation hall will also be built at Shri Krishna AYUSH University in Kurukshetra. Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini stated that Yoga and naturopathy subjects will be recognised under the AYUSH, starting this year, with government registration of practitioners also commencing. Saini also announced that experienced coaches will be appointed to strengthen Yoga as a sport at the national level and to train athletes for international competitions. Recruitment for 40 Yoga instructors in the sports department will begin shortly. 'Yoga for All' event by TNIE turns Dehradun into holistic health hub on 11th International Yoga Day He announced that from today, a five-minute 'Yoga Break' will be introduced in all government offices of Haryana to provide a stress-free work environment for employees. He emphasised that this years theme, Yoga for One Earth, One Health, signifies that Yoga is not just for individuals' well-being but for the welfare of humanity. Saini noted that Yoga is not merely a form of exercise but a complete science for living a healthy, happy, and peaceful life. Yoga is an art of living, which is why it is said: Do Yoga daily, stay healthy always. We should all incorporate Yoga into our daily routines, he said. On this occasion, Yoga Guru Swami Ramdev stated that Yoga is the foundation of life, devotion, nature, and culture. He recalled how Prime Minister Narendra Modi had strongly advocated for International Yoga Day in his very first address to the United Nations General Assembly. As a result, in 2014, the UN passed a historic resolution declaring June 21 as International Yoga Day, with 177 countries supporting the proposal at that time. Today, more than 200 countries are embracing Yoga, making this ancient practice a global way of life. Ramdev also emphasised the Prime Ministers vision of development with heritage, prosperity with culture, and Yoga as a national duty.

'Yoga for All' event by TNIE turns Dehradun into holistic health hub on 11th International Yoga Day

DEHRADUN: The serene city of Dehradun resonated with the spirit of wellness and national pride on Saturday as it proudly marked the 11th International Yoga Day . Hundreds gathered for a special program aptly titled 'Yoga for All,' transforming the Officers' Club auditorium into a vibrant hub of holistic health. Organised by the Event Express division of The New Indian Express Group, the event at the Officers' Club auditorium in Yamuna Colony drew participants from all walks of life students, professionals, homemakers, and senior citizens all united in their commitment to the ancient Indian discipline. Addressing the enthusiastic gathering as the chief guest, Uttarakhand Forest Minister Subodh Uniyal underscored the importance of integrating yoga into daily life, emphasising its benefits for overall well-being. Yoga is essential for overall well-being, and it's crucial to make it a part of our daily lives, Uniyal said, urging attendees to embrace the practice daily. Minister Uniyal further highlighted how this year's International Day of Yoga theme, Yoga for One Earth, One Health, perfectly aligns with India's ongoing G20 presidency vision of One Earth, One Family, One Future. This global perspective positions yoga as a unifying force for planetary health. Minister Uniyal urged the audience to adopt yoga as a lifestyle, promoting harmony between humans and nature. Yoga marks beginning of inner peace becoming global policy: PM Modi at Visakhapatnam Uttarakhand Sports and Women's Welfare Minister Rekha Arya, special guest, commended PM Modi for popularising yoga globally. Our Prime Minister Narendra Modi has given the mantra of wellness to the entire world. She added, The credit for designating June 21 as International Yoga Day goes to Prime Minister Modi himself. Minister Arya urged citizens to embrace India's ancient wisdom. It is imperative for the people of India to adopt the ancient science of our land, she added, as it is also crucial for human welfare. Former State Minister Anil Goyal highlighted yoga's significance in spiritual India. India is the epicentre of spirituality, and Uttarakhand, often called 'Devbhoomi' or the Land of Gods, is inherently a spiritual land, Goyal stated. He noted high-profile engagement: The Prime Minister has previously practised yoga here, and today, the President of the nation is also engaging in yoga. Very few things exist that have no drawbacks; yoga is supreme, offering only benefits. International Day of Yoga: A serene practice in the silver years Prabhu Chawla, Editorial Director of The New Indian Express , spoke on yoga's role in India's global aspirations. If we are to become a 'Vishwa Guru' a global leader and teacher then yoga is the medium through which Prime Minister Modi has connected the entire world with India, Chawla asserted. He linked yoga to national progress: A Prosperous India, a Clean India, and a Healthy India are all intrinsically linked to yoga. Chawla added, If India remains healthy, 50 per cent of our population actively participates in economic activity. Despite this 50 per cent participation, we stand as the world's fifth-largest economy. Should even an additional 10 per cent from the remaining population join this initiative, we are poised to become the world's second or third-largest economy in the near future. Highlighting the importance of various 'asanas' for overall well-being, a renowned yoga instructor Shashi Bahuguna detailed their specific benefits. Bahuguna explained that Marjariasana (Cat and Cow Pose) helps in improving spine flexibility and posture, and stimulates digestive organs. Moving to Bhujangasana (Cobra Pose), she noted, It strengthens the spine, increases flexibility, and tones the back muscles. Along with this, it stimulates the chest and lungs, improving respiratory function and reducing stress. Shashi then highlighted the advantages of Camel Pose (Ustrasana). It vastly improves posture and spinal flexibility, she explained. This pose deeply stretches the front body while strengthening the back, helping correct slouched posture and increasing spinal mobility. It also opens the chest and heart chakra, expanding the chest and lungs, enhancing breathing capacity, and releasing emotional tension. Bahuguna particularly advised those with thyroid conditions to practice Ustrasana. Happy International Yoga Day 2025: Wishes, Quotes, Messages, Slogans and Greetings to Share Elaborating further, Shashi outlined two major benefits of Warrior Pose (Virabhadrasana). Firstly, she stated, it builds strength and stamina, strengthening the legs, core, and shoulders while improving balance and endurance. Secondly, it simultaneously boosts focus and confidence, enhancing mental concentration and promoting a sense of inner strength and stability. Students and officials lauded Saturday's 'Yoga for All' event. I'm deeply impressed and have made yoga a daily routine, said KV's Srishti Verma. Anshika, 13, added, Collective yoga gave me new vigor; it keeps us active and focused on studies. Secretariat Review Officer Sanjay Verma was also moved by the program. The Saturday event was supported by prominent partners, including PC Jeweller as the Presenting Partner, powered by Vijohn, and other key associates such as NTPC, Airport Authority of India, and LIC of India.

Yoga Shining Example Of Indias Soft Power, Shared Legacy Of Entire Mankind: President Murmu

Dehradun, Jun 21: President Droupadi Murmu on Saturday described yoga as a shining example of Indias soft power and said it has now become a shared legacy of entire mankind. Addressing a programme here at the police lines on the occasion of yoga day the President said that ever since the United Nations adopted Indias proposal in 2015 to observe June 21 as the International Day of Yoga (IDY), most countries across the world have made yoga a part of [] The post Yoga Shining Example Of Indias Soft Power, Shared Legacy Of Entire Mankind: President Murmu appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

President Murmu moved to tears as visually impaired children sing for her on birthday at Dehradun retreat opening

DEHRADUN: Dehradun witnessed a poignant blend of celebration and history on Friday as President Droupadi Murmu marked her 67th birthday by formally inaugurating the meticulously renovated Presidential Retreat and opening its sprawling grounds to the public. The day was further highlighted by a deeply emotional encounter with visually impaired children, whose heartfelt rendition of a birthday song moved the First Citizen to tears. The three-day visit of President Murmu to Uttarakhand commenced with the significant unveiling of the refurbished Presidential Retreat, a historic estate now officially known as Rashtrapati Niketan . In a significant move aimed at enhancing public engagement and preserving natural heritage, the President also laid the foundation stone for Rashtrapati Niketan a sprawling 132-acre public garden within the retreat's precincts, previously known as Rashtrapati Udyan . Gracing the inaugural ceremony were Uttarakhand Governor Lt Gen Gurmit Singh (Retd) and Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami, underscoring the importance of the occasion. The newly christened Rashtrapati Niketan is set to open its gates to the general public from 1 July, offering a rare opportunity to experience a unique confluence of architecture, history, and landscape design right in the heart of the city. The estate, sprawling across 237 acres on Rajpur Road, boasts a rich legacy dating back to 1838. It originally served as a summer camp for the Governor General's bodyguard horses, highlighting its long-standing connection with the state's administrative history. The main bungalow on the site was constructed in 1920 for the unit's commandant and was formally designated as the Presidential residence in 1976. According to an official spokesperson, the estate comprises the main building, an annex, stables, a swimming pool, and flourishing orchards. A major renovation project initiated in 2016 incorporated seismic retrofitting and the restoration of traditional water channels, ensuring the preservation of its historical essence while modernising its infrastructure. Adding to the day's events, President Murmu also inaugurated Rashtrapati Tapovan , another section of the estate that will be accessible to the public from 24 June. Furthermore, she unveiled new public facilities within Rashtrapati Niketan , including a dedicated visitor facilitation centre, a cafeteria, and a souvenir shop, designed to enhance the visitor experience. However, the most touching moment of the day unfolded during her visit to the National Institute for the Empowerment of Persons with Visual Disabilities (NIEPVD). As a group of visually impaired children serenaded her with a birthday song, the President was visibly overcome with emotion, tears welling up in her eyes. A visibly moved President shared her sentiments, stating, I could not stop my tears. They were singing so beautifully. They were singing from their hearts. The heartfelt performance left a lasting impression, making her 67th birthday a truly memorable and emotionally resonant occasion. The opening of these historic grounds marks a new chapter in Uttarakhands public heritage, inviting citizens to connect with a significant piece of the nation's past.

Infant, toddler among four of family killed in wall collapse in Uttarakhand's Uttarkashi district

DEHRADUN: Four members of a family, including two children, were killed in their sleep after a residential wall collapsed early Saturday in Gujjar Basti, Mora Tok, a remote hamlet in Uttarkashi districts Oddata Revenue Village. According to preliminary reports from State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) sources, the incident occurred around 2 am on Friday night when the wall of Ghulam Hussains house suddenly collapsed, burying the sleeping family under heavy debris and leaving no chance of escape. The deceased have been identified as Ghulam Hussain (26), his wife Rukma Khatoon (23), their three-year-old son Abid, and ten-month-old daughter Salma. The loss of such young lives has deepened the grief in the close-knit community. Upon receiving the news, teams from the revenue department, SDRF, and local police rushed to the spot and launched rescue operations. However, all four family members had already succumbed to their injuries by the time help arrived. Rescue personnel faced significant challenges given the darkness and the nature of the collapse in the mountainous terrain. Confirming the incident, Tehsildar Mori, Jabbar Singh Aswal, said, Relief and rescue operations were initiated immediately upon notification, but unfortunately, all four members could not be saved. Further elaborating on the ongoing investigation, he added, The preliminary cause of the wall collapse is not yet clear. However, recent heavy rainfall experienced in the region and the condition of the house are being considered as potential reasons. A detailed investigation into the matter is being conducted by the administration to ascertain the exact cause and to prevent any such future occurrences.

Power supply to Uttarakhands remote border villages and ITBP posts for first time since Independence

DEHRADUN: A historic initiative is underway to bring electricity to 882 homes across eight border villages in Uttarakhand, illuminating these remote areas for the first time since Indias independence. Additionally, 43 Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) outposts, strategically positioned along the India-China border, are also set to be electrified. This monumental effort is being led by Uttarakhand Power Corporation Limited (UPCL) under the Central Governments Vibrant Village Programme and Border Out Post Scheme. These schemes aim to develop and strengthen infrastructure in Indias frontier regions. This is a truly transformative moment for our border communities and a significant boost to our national security infrastructure, stated Rajesh Sharma, Chief Engineer, UPCL (Projects). Bringing electricity to these extremely rugged and strategically vital areas, many of which have remained in darkness for over seven decades, presents unique challenges. However, we have meticulously prepared a comprehensive work plan to ensure power reaches every one of these 882 households and 43 ITBP outposts, enhancing the quality of life for residents and strengthening the operational capabilities of our brave jawans. The work plan focuses on reaching these highly inaccessible and strategically crucial areas adjacent to the India-China border, marking a new chapter of development and connectivity for Uttarakhands frontier regions. The tendering process has been completed for projects to provide grid-based electricity supply to the 43 ITBP outposts and 882 homes across eight border villages identified under the Vibrant Village Programme. These key locations are spread across the Pithoragarh, Uttarkashi, and Chamoli districts. Under the Vibrant Village Programme, Purali village in Uttarkashi district, along with Nabi, Kutti, Gunji, Garbyang, Shila, Baling, and Tidang villages in Pithoragarh, have been selected for grid connectivity to 882 homes in total. Survey work is currently underway, including technical assessments, line route determination, pole placement, transformer planning, and other essential preparatory tasks. UPCL Managing Director Anil Kumar stated, Under the guidance of Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami, both these schemes are extremely crucial from the perspective of national security and rural empowerment. He added that despite the challenging weather conditions and limited accessibility in these mountainous regions, UPCLs regional teams are working on a war footing to achieve these targets

Droupadi Murmu Gets Emotional After Visually Impaired Students Wish Her Birthday | Watch

President Mumru arrived in Dehradun on a three-day visit during which she will open to the public the Presidential Niketan.

Chardham Yatra draws 33 lakh pilgrims, adds Rs 306 crore to Uttarakhand economy

DEHRADUN: The Chardham Yatra, the backbone of Uttarakhands economy, has seen a festive surge in footfall, with pilgrim numbers crossing 33 lakh. The Kedarnath Yatra alone has generated Rs 306 crore revenue in just 48 days. Yogendra Gangwar, Joint Director of the Tourism Division at the Uttarakhand Tourism Development Council, told TNIE, Since the opening of Baba Kedarnath Dham's portals for pilgrims on May 2, until Thursday evening, the number of devotees who have visited Baba Kedar has exceeded 11.64 lakh. If we calculate the average for the past month, approximately 24,000 pilgrims are arriving daily for darshan at Kedarnath Dham, he added. Dr. Ashish Rawat, Chief Veterinary Officer, told TNIE, The Kedarnath Dham Yatra is one of the most arduous religious pilgrimages in the country. After traversing a challenging 20-kilometer trek, pilgrims finally get to behold the 11th Jyotirlinga nestled in the lap of the Himalayas. Horses and mules play an extremely crucial role in this difficult pedestrian pilgrimage. As of Wednesday, 228,665 pilgrims reached Kedarnath Dham via horses and mules, generating an income of approximately Rs 67.5 crore, he added. Rahul Chaubey, Nodal Officer for Kedarnath Heli Service, which operates as a lifeline for elderly pilgrims, stated, This year, eight companies are operating heli-services from nine helipads. By Thursday, 49,294 pilgrims had reached Kedarnath by helicopter, generating an income of 61 crore from helicopter fares. For the convenience of elderly pilgrims on the Kedarnath trekking route, dandi-kandi (palanquin/porter services) are operated. Over 7,000 dandi-kandi operators are registered for this year's pilgrimage. As of Wednesday, revenue of Rs 2,02,81,650 has been generated from dandi-kandi services. Additionally, fines totalling Rs 4.17 lakh were collected from various establishments for littering and other rule violations. Kulwant Singh Chauhan, Assistant Transport Officer, Rudraprayag, told TNIE, 225 vehicles are registered for the taxi shuttle service from Sonprayag to Gaurikund for the Kedarnath Dham Yatra. The round-trip fare per passenger is Rs 100. So far, 11.44 lakh pilgrims have reached Gaurikund via the shuttle service. Ram Chandra Goswami, President of the Gaurikund Vyapar Sangh, told TNIE, The scale of the Kedarnath Dham Yatra is expanding every year. This year too, the pilgrimage is witnessing historically high participation. Gaurikund alone boasts around 350 hotel establishments, while the entire pilgrimage route offers over 2,000 hotels, restaurants, and tent accommodations. The average minimum expense for lodging and food for a pilgrim visiting Kedarnath Dham ranges from Rs 1,500 to Rs 2,000. Based on the 11.44 lakh pilgrims who have arrived so far, an estimated business of Rs 150 crore has been generated, he said.

Uttarakhand faces earthquake risk as tectonic stress builds up

DEHRADUN: A 250-kilometre stretch of land in Uttarakhand is under severe pressure due to tectonic activity and could experience a massive earthquake measuring 7 to 8 in magnitude, warn geoscientists. This stretch, which runs from Tanakpur in Kumaon to Dehradun, is located in one of the most earthquake-prone zones in the Himalayan region and is currently in a state of contraction, causing deep underground stress. According to Dr. Vineet Gahlot, Director of the Wadia Institute of Himalayan Geology (WIHG), the Himalayas are constantly shifting due to north-south tectonic movement. While plates typically move about 40 millimetres each year, this specific stretch moves much slower only 14 to 20 millimetres per year. This movement discrepancy, where a section is 'locked' or moving slower than surrounding areas, causes immense crustal stress. Similar conditions in Nepal historically culminated in major seismic events, said Dr. Gahlot. GPS tracking across the region has confirmed that many areas are moving much slower than normal, with some as low as 14 millimetres annually. This slower movement indicates the land is shrinking, a clear sign of dangerous tectonic stress building up. Dr. R.J. Perumal, a senior scientist at WIHG, shared the results of his study on this phenomenon. He pointed out that an 80-kilometre stretch between Munsyari and Mohand in Dehradun is moving just 20 millimetres annually. In this area, four major fault lines lie deep underground, at angles between 70 to 80 degrees. Seismic energy is continuously accumulating deep within the earth's crust, unreleased, he warned. He added that while some fault lines have gentler angles around 40 to 45 degrees and allow plates to move more freely at the usual 40 millimetres annually, the steep angles in the locked areas are likely causing the dangerous energy build-up. Scientists link Nepal quakes to Uttarakhand risk Nepals own experience offers a worrying comparison. There, the tectonic plates moved at around 21 millimetres per year before two major earthquakes struck one of magnitude 8.0 in 1934 and another of 7.8 in 2015. Both caused massive damage, underlining how built-up stress can lead to repeated, powerful quakes. The insights were presented by top experts during a recent workshop titled Understanding Himalayan Earthquakes, held at the WIHG in Dehradun. Dr. Perumal also reminded that Uttarakhand has a history of big earthquakes. The Kumaon region, around Ramnagar, saw earthquakes of magnitude 7 to 8 in 1334 and 1505. In the Garhwal region, a 7.8 magnitude earthquake was recorded in 1803. Crucially, no 'giant' earthquake has been registered in the region since then, Dr. Perumal said, even as geological stress continues to build relentlessly beneath the surface. With clear warning signs and historical patterns, scientists are urging authorities and the public to take preparedness seriously in this tectonically sensitive region.

Landslide claims two on trek route to Kedarnath

DEHRADUN: TRAGEDY returned to haunt the ongoing Char Dham Yatra, as a major landslide claimed the lives of two palanquin-bearers and severely injured three others near Jangal Chatti on the Gaurikund-Kedarnath route, even as a three-day halt in helicopter services has brought significant surge in traditional transport businesses like palanquins and ghori operations. Five workers associated with the Palki and Dandi-Kandi services were caught in the sudden calamity, suffering severe injuries. Despite immediate efforts, two of the injured succumbed to their wounds. The deceased have been identified as 18-year-old Nitin Kumar, and Chandrashekhar, both palanquin-bearers by livelihood and hailing from Doda district of J&K.

12 yrs on, 702 Kedarnath cloudburst victims yet to be identified: Officials

DEHRADUN: Twelve years after the devastating Kedarnath floods, the identity of many victims still remains shrouded in mystery. A particularly perplexing aspect is the fate of 702 individuals whose DNA samples are in the possession of police, but they are yet to match with samples of their family members. The wait for thousands of grieving relatives is agonising. This impedes closure to the affected relatives in one of Indias worst modern tragedies. Its heartbreaking, a senior police official involved in the recovery efforts, told this newspaper. We have the DNA reports for these 702 individuals, but without a corresponding match from the family samples, their identities remain elusive. Following the 2013 disaster, police initiated a comprehensive effort to identify the deceased. DNA samples were meticulously collected from 735 bodies, body parts, and skeletal remains recovered from the disaster zone. These were dispatched to a specialised laboratory in Bengaluru for analysis. Simultaneously, the police appealed for DNA samples from the relatives. The call saw an overwhelming response, with over 6,000 individuals submitting their samples to the lab. Of the 735 DNA samples of the deceased, only a few were successfully matched. This highlights the sheer scale and complexity of victim identification in such a devastating event, ADGP Amit Sinha, Director of Forensic Science Laboratory, told this newspaper. We sent 735 samples of bodies, body parts, and skeletons to the Bengaluru lab, and over 6,000 family members also provided their DNA. Yet, only 33 matches were made.

Uttarakhand CM Dhami meets Amit Shah in Delhi; discuss various important issues

In view of the increasing challenges in the field of cybersecurity, the Chief Minister has requested the Union Home Minister to approve an amount of Rs 63.60 crore for the establishment of the Cyber Centre of Excellence in Dehradun.

Special health checkup camp organised for journalists in Uttarakhand

A special health checkup camp has been organised for journalists on Tuesday at the State Information Directorate, Dehradun. The initiative came following the direction of Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami.

Uttarakhand scholarship scam: Rs 91 lakh fraud uncovered in 17 minority institutions, FIRs imminent

DEHRADUN: The Uttarakhand government has received crucial investigation report revealing widespread irregularities in a centrally sponsored scholarship scheme for students from minority communities. The reported submitted by the district administration, has flagged serious discrepancies in 17 out of 92 educational institutions under scrutiny. Following the findings, the state government is preparing to file First Information Reports (FIRs) against those involved. Officials confirmed that action would be taken to ensure accountability and recover misappropriated funds. The probe was initiated by the Union Ministry of Minority Affairs after receiving multiple complaints and conducting an analysis of the National Scholarship Portal, which flagged several institutions and schools as suspicious. Subsequently, the Uttarakhand government ordered a comprehensive investigation across 92 institutions and schools within the state. District Magistrates were directed to form inquiry committees led by Sub-Divisional Magistrates (SDMs). The government had recently issued reminders to ensure timely submission of reports. The report reveals prima facie irregularities in scholarship disbursement across 17 institutions of the 92 that were examined, a government spokesperson said. These include instances where scholarships were awarded to students who were not enrolled in the listed institutions. The irregularities involve 1,058 students and an estimated financial fraud of around Rs 91 lakh. Departmental sources said Haridwar district accounted for the highest number of implicated institutions (7), followed by Udham Singh Nagar (6), and Nainital and Rudraprayag with two each. Dhiraj Garbyal, Secretary of the Minority Welfare Department, confirmed that the report had been received and has been forwarded to the Ministry. FIRs and other necessary steps will be taken to ensure accountability, he said.

2 senior officials of helicopter firm booked for negligence in Kedarnath chopper crash

DEHRADUN, June 16: Two senior officials of helicopter service operating firm Aryan Aviation Private Ltd have been booked for alleged negligence leading to the chopper crash near Kedarnath that killed all seven on board, including a two-year-old and the pilot. The Bell 407 helicopter that crashed on Sunday due to bad weather in the forests []

NHAI to institute annual awards to recognise agencies carrying out plantations along National Highways

NEW DELHI: In a major push towards environmental sustainability, the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) will introduce annual awards to recognise exemplary plantation work carried out along national highways. The initiative is aimed at encouraging wider participation in restoring ecological balance and increasing greenery in highway corridors. Under the newly instituted NHAI Green Highways Excellence Awards, a total of nine honours will be presented annually across three categories: Avenue Plantations, Median Plantations, and Plantations at Land Parcels, which include toll plazas, service areas, and cloverleaf junctions. According to the officials familiar with the development, the Authority has decided to institute annual NHAI Green Highways Excellence awards as mandated in the Green Highways Policy, 2015. The objective is to recognise and reward exemplary efforts by various agencies and such initiatives for wider replications. Nomination will be invited by the Regional Officer (ROs) or Project Directors preferably in February. The plantation completed by January 31 will be considered for the recognition, officials said. The Authority -- road construction wing under the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) -- is mandated to develop, maintain and manage the national highways. At present, the total length of NH network is about 1.46 lakh km and about 38,842 km length is under development. During the current financial year 2024-25, the ministry has planned to take up maintenance of about 25,000 km of roads. The selection process will be based on an eight-point evaluation system that will assess adherence to timelines, quality of planting material, survival rate, protection measures, species selection, and compliance with the guidelines laid down by the Indian Road Congress (IRC). Since the launch of the Green Highways Policy, NHAI has planted more than 5.12 lakh saplings across the country. The Authoritys broader vision is to saturate green cover along all national highways by involving various stakeholders, including government agencies, NGOs, and private institutions. In a recent step towards this vision, NHAI organised a plantation drive along the DelhiDehradun Economic Corridor in Baghpat district of Uttar Pradesh, where 40,000 saplings are planned to be planted. Officials noted that such awards would not only acknowledge outstanding contributions but also serve as an incentive for other organisations to adopt similar environmental practices, creating a green and sustainable national highway ecosystem.

Uttarakhand Govt Grounds Helicopter Services After Kedarnath Crash; Command Centre Announced In Dehradun

Kedarnath helicopter crash: Case registered against private helicopter firm

DEHRADUN: A case has been registered against helicopter service operating firm Aryan Aviation Private Ltd for alleged negligence in connection with the chopper crash near Kedarnath on Sunday which killed all seven people on board, including a two-year-old child and the pilot. The Bell 407 helicopter which crashed due to bad weather in the forests of Gauri Mai Khark between Gaurikund and Triyuginarayan belonged to Aryan Aviation Private Limited. A case has been registered against Aryan Aviation's accountable manager Kaushik Pathak and manager Vikas Tomar at Sonprayag police station under BNS and section 10 of the Aircraft Act 1934, police said. The case was registered on the basis of a complaint lodged by Revenue police Sub Inspector Rajiv Nakholia posted at Phata, a small town located near the Himalayan temple. Uttarakhand grounds all helicopter services till Monday amid safety push The complaint states that Aryan Aviation was allotted the first slot from 6 am to 7 am for helicopter operations on June 15, while this accident happened before that at 5:30 am. In addition, despite the sky being cloudy and foggy since morning, the weather conditions were not checked before the helicopter took off. The complaint states that the SOP issued by the DGCA and Uttarakhand Civil Aviation Development Authority was ignored while the company managers knew very well that doing so could cause loss of life and property. By doing so, Aryan Aviation Pvt Ltd and its managers showed gross negligence towards their responsibilities, due to which the crash occurred, the complaint added.

Pilot, six others die in Uttarakhand chopper crash

Rudraprayag/Dehradun, June 15: Seven people, including the pilot, died when a helicopter carrying pilgrims returning from the Kedarnath Temple crashed in the Gaurikund area of Uttarakhands Rudraprayag district today, official sources said. The helicopter was bringing back five devotees and an employee of the temple committee after the darshan of Baba Kedarnath when it crashed [] The post Pilot, six others die in Uttarakhand chopper crash appeared first on Northlines .

Indian Army Gets 419 New Officers After Grand Passing Out Parade At IMA Dehradun

7 feared dead in Uttarakhand Chopper Crash

Dehradun, June 15: Seven people are feared dead after a chopper crashed on the Kedarnath road in Rudraprayag district of Uttarakhand today, an official from the State Disaster Management Authority said. The accident took place around 5:30 am in the Gaurikund area. The helicopter belonged to the Aryan Aviation Company. According to preliminary information from [] The post 7 feared dead in Uttarakhand Chopper Crash appeared first on Northlines .

Helicopter crashes near Kedarnath shrine, all seven on board killed

DEHRADUN: A helicopter crashed near the Kedarnath shrine in Uttarakhand early Sunday, killing all seven on board. Rudraprayag District Disaster Management Officer Nandan Singh Rajwar told PTI that the accident took place above the forests of Gaurikund amid poor visibility due to bad weather. The dead included six pilgrims and the pilot. The helicopter took off from Kedarnath for Guptkashi around 5:30 am and crashed soon after. Sources said the chopper belonging to Aryan Aviation Pvt Ltd crashed between Gaurikund and Trijuginarayan in Kedarghati and caught fire. Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami said in a post on X that a helicopter has crashed and the State Disaster Response Force and other agencies are engaged in relief and rescue operations. , Pushkar Singh Dhami (@pushkardhami) June 15, 2025 The incident comes days after an Air India flight to London crashed in Ahmedbad, killing 241 people on board and several others on the ground. Earlier, on May 8, a helicopter going to Gangotri Dham crashed in Uttarkashi district in which six people were killed. On June 7, a helicopter going to Kedarnath had to make an emergency landing on the road due to a technical fault soon after take-off in which the pilot was injured but the five devotees on board were rescued safely.

Alarm bells ring: Uttarakhands glacier lakes swell, signalling future disasters

DEHRADUN: The Himalayan region of Uttarakhand is witnessing an alarming proliferation of glacial lakes, a trend that experts warn could signal major future disasters in this ecologically fragile zone. A recent study by the Wadia Institute of Himalayan Geology (WIHG) has brought this worrying development to the fore. The study reveals a significant increase in the number of glaciers across the state, currently recorded at 1,290, up from 1,266 a decade ago. Concurrently, the area covered by glacial lakes has expanded by a substantial 8.1 per cent. This growth underscores the severe impacts of climate change on the delicate Himalayan ecosystem. Dr Rakesh Bhambri, a glaciologist at WIHG, elaborated on the findings, stating, Our research indicates that new lakes are forming on glaciers in the Uttarakhand Himalayas, and existing lakes are growing in size. There has been a notable increase in their numbers since our 2015 study. Attributing this surge primarily to climate change and global warming, he further explained, The occurrence of rain instead of snow at altitudes of four to five thousand metres is a significant contributing factor, leading to glacier melt and the formation of these lakes. While acknowledging the overall increase, Dr Bhambri clarified that not all lakes are expanding. The destructive potential of Glacial Lake Outburst Floods (GLOFs) is not new to the region. The devastating Kedarnath tragedy of 2013 was triggered by the bursting of the Chorabari glacial lake, and the 2021 Raini-Tapovan floods were also a result of a similar event. Sikkim experienced a comparable disaster in 2013. In light of these past catastrophes, the Indian government has identified 13 such high-risk glacial lakes in Uttarakhand that could pose a significant threat in the future. Prominent among these are Vasundhara Lake in Chamoli, Kedartal in Uttarkashi, Nagkund in Bageshwar, six lakes in Pithoragarh, and one in Tehri.

Helicopter enroute to Kedarnath with six onboard crashes in Uttarakhand

A helicopter carrying six individuals crashed near Gaurikund, Uttarakhand, while flying from Dehradun to Kedarnath. The incident occurred amidst the challenging terrain and unpredictable weather conditions of the upper Himalayan region. Authorities have confirmed the crash, and further details are currently awaited as the situation unfolds.

'Tree' Cheers For Delhi-Dehradun Expressway Set To Open Before End Of July With Green Push

The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) launched an initiative to plant approximately 40,000 trees along the Delhi-Dehradun Corridor

Torrential rainfall, lightning lash Uttarakhand, claim three lives

DEHRADUN: Torrential rains and fierce lightning strikes across Uttarakhands high-altitude regions and plains have claimed three lives, as the state faces severe weather. The Uttarakhand Meteorological Department issued a heavy rainfall warning starting June 13, severely disrupting daily life across multiple regions . Lightning tragedies in Laksar In the Laksar area, two separate lightning incidents tragically claimed the lives of a woman and a youth Bholi Devi (45), of Mutkabad village in the Laksar Kotwali area, was working in her field when she sought shelter under a mango tree. A lightning bolt struck the tree, killing her instantly. An-18-year- old youth, Shahbaz , from nearby Jainpur village, suffered a lightning strike while working in a field. He sustained severe burns and later succumbed to his injuries. Heavy rainfall is affecting areas including Nainital, Almora, Dehradun, Mussoorie, Udham Singh Nagar, and Haldwani. Nainital, in particular, is experiencing flooding of streets, homes, and landmarks . Rohit Thapliyal of the Dehradun Meteorological Centre said that an active western disturbance is causing light to moderate rainfall across Uttarakhand from June 13 to 18, with heavier downpours expected in Pithoragarh and Bageshwar. He cautioned against venturing into streams and rivulets and urged heightened vigilance in landslide-prone zones. After June 18, rainfall is expected to ease, bringing temperature relief. Thapliyal noted that the monsoon is gradually covering the state, especially the Kumaon division. The states Disaster Management Department is on alert and ready to respond swiftly to any emergencies.

Dehradun Diary | Be agents of change: Birla to civil servants

Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla today asserted that bringing positive change in peoples lives should be the guiding objective for civil servants. He urged officials to embrace innovation and transparency as effective tools in governance to ensure societal betterment and fulfill the expectations of the common people. Addressing the valedictory function of the 127th Induction Training Programme at the Lal Bahadur Shastri National Academy of Administration in Mussoorie on Thursday, Speaker Birla stated, Bringing positive change in peoples lives must be the guiding objective for every civil servant. Revenue from liquor cess meant for social welfare In a landmark step aimed at bolstering social welfare, the Uttarakhand government has announced that 1% of the revenue collected from the cess on the sale of English liquor will now go towards the welfare of vulnerable sections of society. The move, approved by the state Cabinet, will help channel funds for the upliftment of orphaned and destitute children, adolescent girls and economically disadvantaged, homeless and elderly women who have been affected by disasters or accidents. The CMs women and child multi-faceted assistance fund rules outline the meticulous process for disbursing these crucial funds. BJPs Joshi flags threat to Gangotri eco zone Veteran BJP leader Murli Manohar Joshi has strongly objected to the presence of a waste incinerator at Gangotri National Park near the Gangotri Temple. This plant, he contends, violates regulations meant for eco-sensitive zones, where industrial activities are prohibited. The facility reportedly emits toxic gases, posing a direct threat to the fragile Himalayan ecosystem and its biodiversity. Flagging the risk of environmental degradation, Joshi has urged Union Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav for urgent action. His intervention underscores the need to protect this ecologically significant region. Narendra Sethi Our correspondent in Uttarakhand narendrasethi@ newindianexpress.com

Uttarakhand CM Dhami warns heli operators after Char Dham mishaps; orders full safety audit

DEHRADUN: Taking a stringent stance on the series of recent helicopter mishaps during the Char Dham yatra, Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami on Wednesday warned heli operators to strictly prioritise safety over soaring passenger demand. He ordered a full safety audit and review of past accidents. There will be no compromise whatsoever on the safety standards of heli services, CM Dhami declared, emphasising the state's paramount duty to ensure pilgrim safety. He has instructed a comprehensive audit and continuous review of past helicopter mishaps to prevent any recurrence. Directives include strict adherence to regular helicopter fitness checks, the formulation of robust and effective Standard Operating Procedures for ticket bookings, and stringent compliance with engine safety standards for helicopters operating in high-altitude Himalayan regions. Dhami delivered these directives during a high-level review meeting held at his official residence on Wednesday. The gathering brought together all heli-service providers and operators, alongside representatives from UCAADA (Uttarakhand Civil Aviation Development Authority), AAIB (Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau), and DGCA (Directorate General of Civil Aviation). During the session, CM Dhami announced that UCAADA would be tasked with formulating a 10-year action plan for heli services in the state. Addressing concerns over weather-induced disruptions and the need for accurate meteorological data, CM Dhami ordered the immediate installation of weather cameras in the Kedarnath Valley and all other Char Dham valleys. He also instructed UCAADA to develop a robust policy for operating only double-engine helicopters in the future. The Chief Minister also mandated a study of the successful heli-service model implemented at Vaishno Devi, stressing the need to employ only highly experienced pilots for services within the state. Beyond technical safety, CM Dhami urged heli operators to maintain sensitive and considerate behaviour towards passengers, ensuring that tourists from around the world leave Devbhoomi with pleasant experiences. He also directed operators and the administration to launch cleanliness drives along the Char Dham routes. With over 66,000 pilgrims having already utilised heli-shuttle services this year, the Chief Minister highlighted the growing demand. Given that Uttarakhand is a prime tourism and Char Dham state, the demand for heli services is set to increase significantly, CM Dhami stated, adding, Due to challenging geographical conditions, heli services will form the very foundation of the state's future. He noted that numerous new helipads are currently under construction to meet this escalating demand.

4th KIO National Cadet Junior & Sub Junior Karate Championship 2025

Karatekas representing All Meghalaya Karate Do Association will participate in the 4th KIO National Cadet Junior & Sub Junior Karate Championship 2025 to be held at Dehradun, from June 12 15. The winners of the event will have the opportunity to represent India in the 2025 WKF Youth Camp & Karate 1-Youth League [] The post 4th KIO National Cadet Junior & Sub Junior Karate Championship 2025 appeared first on The Shillong Times .

Op Sindoor biggest anti-terror move in India: Rajnath

Dehradun, Jun 10: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Tuesday said the Pahalgam terror strike was not just an attack on our people but also an assault on the social unity of India, as he asserted that Operation Sindoor carried out in retaliation was the biggest action taken against terrorism in Indias history. In his address [] The post Op Sindoor biggest anti-terror move in India: Rajnath appeared first on Northlines .

Made-in-India systems making India strategically, economically and technically strong: Rajnath Singh

NEW DELHI: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh drew attention to the government's push towards Make in India for defence production, noting that around 100 countries having chosen Indian military equipment for their armed forces. Rajnath was enumerating the achievements of the PM Modi government as it completed 11 years in office. The government's persistent efforts are bearing fruit as the annual defence production, which was around Rs 40,000 crore in 2014, has crossed the record figure of Rs 1.30 lakh crore, and defence exports, which were Rs 686 crore in 2014, skyrocketed to Rs 23,622 crore in FY 2024-25, he underlined. We have set a target of Rs 1.75 lakh crore defence production this year and Rs three lakh crore by 2029. Our defence exports should reach Rs 30,000 crore this year and Rs 50,000 crore by 2029, he said. In the last 11 years, the Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led government has transformed India's security apparatus by changing the attitude and the way of action towards every issue related to national security, and the world witnessed this shift during Operation Sindoor, said Rajnath, while addressing a dialogue on 'National Security & Terrorism' in Dehradun on Monday. Rajnath listed out the steps taken by the government to strengthen the defence sector, including increasing the defence budget from Rs 2.53 lakh crore in Financial Year (FY) 2013-14 to Rs 6,22 lakh crore in FY 2024-25, reserving 75% of the budget for capital procurement from domestic companies and the issuance of a total of 10 Positive Indigenisation Lists, comprising over 5,500 items. Today, the Indian armed forces use state-of-the-art weapons, missiles, tanks and other systems/platforms manufactured within the country. Our indigenous missiles such as Agni, Prithvi & BrahMos stand ready to give a befitting reply to the enemy. We also have the strength to build aircraft carriers such as INS Vikrant, he added. Highlighting the strategy adopted by the government to deal with terrorism and strengthen national security, Rajnath said the defence sector has emerged as one of the strongest pillars of Aatmanirbhar Bharat, and the weapons/platforms used during Operation Sindoor were made in India. Today, India is not only protecting its borders, but is also creating a system which is making us strategically, economically and technically strong. Earlier, we were completely dependent on foreign defence equipment, but today India is rapidly becoming Aatmanirbhar in defence, he said. India will use every method to deal with Pakistan-backed terrorism: Rajnath Singh The Defence Minister described Operation Sindoor as the biggest action taken against terrorism in Indian history, which was carried out with indigenous weapons and systems in response to the cowardly attack on innocent people in Pahalgam. The Pahalgam incident was an attack on the social unity of the country, and India took strong action against terrorism and its perpetrators by destroying terror bases and related infrastructure in Pakistan and PoK, Rajnath said. Following the abrogation of Article 370, J&K heralded into the era of peace and progress. Our neighbors could not tolerate this, and executed the terror attack in Pahalgam. Despite Pakistan's best efforts, it has not been able to stop development in Kashmir. Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla railway link is a shining example of the government's relentless pursuit of progress in J&K. Soon, PoK will join us and say 'I, too, am Bharat', he added. Branding terrorism as an epidemic destined to perish, the Defence Minister stressed that the menace cannot be left to die a natural death as its existence will continue to challenge collective peace, development and prosperity. He underscored the urgent need for a permanent solution to terrorism. Terrorists are not fighters with a cause. No religious, ideological or political reason can justify terrorism. No human objective can ever be achieved through bloodshed and violence. India and Pakistan attained independence at the same time, but today, India has been recognised as the Mother of Democracy, while Pakistan has emerged as the Father of Global Terrorism. Pakistan has always given shelter to terrorists, trained them on its soil and helped them. It always tries to justify this menace. It is important that we eliminate these terrorists and their entire infrastructure, said Rajnath. The Defence Minister urged the international community to stop foreign funding to Pakistan, saying that a large part of this financial aid is spent on terrorism. Funding Pakistan means funding the infrastructure of terrorism. Pakistan is a nursery of terrorism. It should not be nourished, he added. Rajnath expressed shock at the recent decision by the United Nations Security Council to name Pakistan as the Vice-Chair of the Counter-Terrorism Panel, especially as it was formed after the 9/11 terror attacks. Pakistan had sheltered the mastermind of the 9/11 attacks. Its land has been used as a refuge for global terrorist organisations. There, terrorists like Hafiz Saeed and Masood Azhar roam around openly, and senior officers of the Pakistan Army attend the funerals of terrorists. Now, the same country is expected to lead the global community against terrorism. This raises serious questions on the intentions and policies of the international system, he said.

Operation Sindoor Was Biggest Action Taken Against Terrorism In Indian History: Rajnath

Dehradun, Jun 10: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Tuesday said the Pahalgam terror strike was not just an attack on our people but also an assault on the social unity of India, as he asserted that Operation Sindoor carried out in retaliation was the biggest action taken against terrorism in Indias history. In his address at an event in Dehradun, he also said that terrorists killed people in Pahalgam asking their religion but we didnt ask their dharm (religion) but [] The post Operation Sindoor Was Biggest Action Taken Against Terrorism In Indian History: Rajnath appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Roads Like US In 2 Years: Nitin Gadkari Says Rs 1.5-Lakh-Crore Plan Will Ease Delhi Traffic

'25 greenfield eways, a 3,000-km port connectivity road': Building so many highways that it will be possible to travel from Delhi-Dehradun, Chennai-Bengaluru in 2 hours, he said

Woman posing as High Court lawyer busted in love-extortion scam in Uttarakhand

DEHRADUN: A woman posing as a High Court advocate in Uttarakhand has been arrested for allegedly trapping a man in a love scam, marrying him, and then demanding a hefty sum of Rs 30 lakh under threat of murder. Police registered an FIR based on the victim's complaint and arrested the accused, recovering Rs 50,000 in alleged blackmail money. Authorities revealed the woman reportedly has 18 previous First Information Reports (FIRs) against her in Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand for similar blackmail schemes. Deepak Kakkad, a resident of Vasundhara Bhoorarani Road, filed a detailed complaint with Senior Superintendent of Police Manikant Mishra on June 5. He stated that on May 2, he received a WhatsApp call from a woman identifying herself as Ankita Sharma, an advocate at the Nainital High Court. She claimed it was an accidental call meant for a client. Kakkad revealed that Ankita then began engaging him in sweet talks via WhatsApp chats, gradually ensnaring him in a love trap. She also allegedly swindled Rs 5 lakh from him under the pretext of securing a steel grilling contract. The relationship culminated in a marriage ceremony on May 27 at Piplia Mandir Sakainia Gadarpur, after which she moved into his home. After marriage, she began pressuring me to give her Rs 30 lakh, Deepak Kakkad told police. When Kakkad expressed his inability to pay, the woman allegedly threatened to have him killed if he didnt comply. Frightened, he approached the police. Subsequent investigations revealed that Ankita Sharma was, in fact, Heena Rawat, a known blackmailer from Kashipur. It was also discovered that she used another alias, Nikita Singh, with a fake Aadhaar card. Police checks further revealed that she was already married and allegedly operated with a gang, often filing false rape cases against victims to extort money. SSP Manikant Mishra confirmed the details on Saturday, stating that an FIR was registered based on Mr. Kakkad's complaint. Upon confirmation of the allegations during investigation, the accused woman was arrested late Friday night near Hotel Uday on Kichha Road, SSP Mishra told the TNIE. Police recovered Rs 50,000 and a fake Aadhaar card from her. She was produced in court on Saturday and subsequently remanded to judicial custody.

Monsoon's Island: 'Sri Lanka tapu' braces for three months of isolation in Uttarakhand

DEHRADUN: As monsoon rains begin to envelop Uttarakhand, a stark annual reality unfolds for 115 families residing on 'Sri Lanka Tapu', a distinctive village nestled within Nainital district's Bindukhatta area. Despite ambitious state-wide pushes for enhanced connectivity and modern infrastructure development, this community annually transforms into an isolated island, completely cut off from the mainland for three grueling months once the heavy rains begin. In preparation for this predictable isolation, residents are already in full swing, meticulously stockpiling essential food and supplies. We have to ensure we have enough to last us through the entire monsoon, explained Raghuveer Singh of Sri Lanka Tapu. Rising waters during the monsoon make reaching the mainland extremely difficult and dangerous, compelling families to prepare well in advance to avert hardships during their prolonged period of disconnection. According to administrative sources, the number of members in 115 families in Sri Lanka Tapu is around 200. Acknowledging the unique and persistent challenges, Haldwani Sub-Divisional Magistrate Rekha Kohli recently visited the village, accompanied by various departmental officials. Acting on her directives, the food supply inspector distributed rations sufficient to last until August, while the health department provided a comprehensive three-month supply of life-saving medicines. We have ensured residents of 'Sri Lanka Island' receive crucial supplies to sustain them through the monsoon, including rations until August and a three-month supply of life-saving medicines to address their immediate needs, stated SDM Kohli. Further bolstering emergency preparedness, a vital helipad has been constructed in Sri Lanka Tapu. Officials confirm this facility will serve as a critical lifeline, facilitating timely evacuation and treatment in medical emergencies and ensuring residents' safety during their isolation. Known to its residents as Kalapani, the village earned its 'Sri Lanka' moniker from journalists who, during the devastating 1984 floods, likened its distinctive geographical appearance to the island nation when flying overhead. Spanning 45 hectares, the village is uniquely surrounded by water on three sides and dense forest on the fourth, solidifying its status as a virtual island during the monsoon season and explaining its persistent isolation despite broader development efforts.

Car falls into deep gorge in Mussoorie, police rescue two

Mussoorie: Two men sustained serious injuries after their car plunged into a deep ditch near Kolukhet Pani Wala Band on the Mussoorie-Dehradun road, Uttarakhand, early Sunday morning. The accident occurred when the vehicle reportedly lost control at a bend and fell into the gorge. Upon receiving information about the mishap, Mussoorie Police, led by Sub-Inspector 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 .

Close call for six after helicopter makes emergency landing on Uttarakhand highway

DEHRADUN: A helicopter ferrying pilgrims to the revered Kedarnath Dham was forced to make an emergency landing on Saturday afternoon after developing a technical snag during take-off. While all five passengers aboard the Kestrel Aviation Private Limited chopper escaped unhurt, the pilot sustained minor injuries. The aircraft and a car parked nearby were damaged in the incident. As the copter was taking off, a sudden technical malfunction hit it prompting the pilot to take immediate action. Demonstrating exceptional presence of mind, the pilot swiftly assessed the situation and executed an emergency landing on a nearby road, a source from the district headquarters confirmed. His quick thinking undoubtedly saved lives and prevented what could have been a major distress. Following the dramatic landing, the pilot, who suffered minor injuries, was immediately rushed to a local hospital for treatment. All five pilgrims on board were reported safe and uninjured. The helicopter sustained damage during the landing, and a car parked nearby also suffered impact. The tail section of the helicopter broke off. Upon receiving information, authorities immediately mobilised a team to clear the site and ensure minimal disruption to the pilgrimage route, and normalise the traffic. District Tourism Development Officer and Nodal Officer for Heli-Services, Rahul Choubey, told this daily, A helicopter, taking off from its Badasoo base for Shri Kedarnath Dham with five passengers on board, developed a technical snag during its ascent. The pilot, sensing the fault, spotted a clear road nearby and executed an emergency landing. He further reassured the public and pilgrims that the incident has not impacted the ongoing heli-shuttle services to the revered shrine. The incident has had no effect on the heli-shuttle service, he confirmed. The incident highlights risks due to treacherous terrain and adverse weather. The region has seen several accidents in 14 years, resulting in significant loss of life. In May, a chopper en route from Sirsi to Kedarnath made an emergency landing just short of helipad. All six occupants escaped unharmed. In April 2023, UCAADA Finance GM Amit Saini was fatally struck by helicopter tail rotor at Kedarnath Dham. Prior to it, a helicopter carrying five pilgrims to Kedarnath from Guptkashi made emergency landing on October 2. No casualties were reported in the incident. However, seven people, including the pilot, were killed when a chopper flying from Kedarnath crashed after Garudchatti in October 2022.

Uttarakhand emerges as rainfall hotspot, outpaces neighbouring states

DEHRADUN: Uttarakhand consistently receives significantly more rainfall than its neighbouring regions, including Himachal Pradesh, Jammu & Kashmir, Ladakh, Delhi, and western Uttar Pradesh. This continuous spell of wet weather keeps temperatures in the state relatively cooler. Uttarakhands annual average rainfall is a substantial 1477.6 mm, stated the Meteorological Department, noting its lead over Himachal Pradesh (1245.1 mm) and Delhi (527.1 mm). The state also receives a heavy 1162.7 mm during the monsoon season, with July and August being the wettest months. Recent data shows that Dehradun recorded 23.2 mm of rain on June 3, highlighting the ongoing rainy spell. The Meteorological Centre reported that Uttarakhand is currently experiencing persistent rainfall. Dehradun, the state capital, recorded 23.2 mm on June 3, 7.8 mm on June 4, and 0.4 mm on June 5. This steady rain has caused a noticeable drop in temperature, providing relief from the summer heat. Uttarakhand sees record June chill as pre-monsoon rain cools temperatures Meteorological data shows that Uttarakhand stands ahead of many neighbouring states in terms of rainfall. Himachal Pradesh records an annual average of 1245.1 mm, Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh 1232.3 mm, west Uttar Pradesh 765.3 mm, Punjab 565.5 mm, and Haryana, Chandigarh, and Delhi together average 527.1 mm. The Meteorological Centres records also show that Uttarakhand receives 1162.7 mm of rainfall during the monsoon season alone. Historically, the state has experienced above-average rainfall in three years 2000, 2007, and 2010. There were also six years of minimum rainfall and 18 years of normal rainfall over the past 26 years. An analysis of daily rainfall data from 1989 to 2018 shows varied trends across different districts in Uttarakhand. According to officials, districts such as Rudraprayag, Chamoli, Bageshwar, and Nainital have seen a significant rise in annual rainfall, while Pauri district has witnessed a decline in both monsoon and annual rainfall. Explaining the reason behind the high rainfall in Uttarakhand, Dr. Bikram Singh, Director of the Meteorological Centre, told TNIE, The monsoon primarily draws its moisture and precipitation from two main branches: the Arabian Sea branch and the Bay of Bengal branch. In Uttarakhand, the Bay of Bengal branch is significantly more dominant and potent, which is the primary reason why the state experiences comparatively higher rainfall.

Uttarakhand High Court asks state govt to explain delay in phasing out revenue police system

DEHRADUN: Uttarakhand High Court has asked the state government to respond within four weeks to a contempt petition that accuses it of ignoring earlier court orders to phase out the revenue police system and set up regular police stations in certain areas. Justice Manoj Kumar Tiwari of the single-judge bench heard the petition filed by Haldwani resident Amit Kholia. He alleged that the state government has not implemented the court's May 2023 order to end the revenue police system. The government had assured the court that it would take steps to establish regular police stations in areas where the revenue police system is currently in place. However, no significant progress has been made in this regard, Kholia's petition stated. The petition pointed out that the Supreme Court had, back in 2004, underlined the need to do away with the revenue police system, as its personnel lacked proper training and modern facilities. Revenue police personnel are not trained like civil police and lack basic facilities like forensic investigation, DNA testing, and fingerprint analysis, it stated. The High Court had issued similar directions in 2018, but those too were not followed. The matter has drawn renewed attention after the Ankita Bhandari murder case, which raised serious concerns about the effectiveness of the revenue police. In response, Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami had ordered steps to quickly transfer control from the revenue police to the regular police. The revenue police system, which still exists in some parts of Uttarakhand, dates back to the British era. Under this system, local revenue officials have to perform police duties, including maintaining law and order and investigating crimes. Critics argue that the system is outdated and ineffective, and that regular police forces are needed for better law enforcement.