Professor in Roorkee arrested over alleged misconduct

DEHRADUN: An assistant professor at a reputable college in Roorkee has been arrested following allegations of touching girl students inappropriately during a practical examination. Students also claimed that the professor allegedly wrote his mobile number on the hand of a student and asked her to call him in the evening. The incident occurred on May 15 during a practical exam for BSc fourth-semester students at a college located in the Ganganahar Police Station area in Haridwar district. Assistant Professor Dr Abdul Aleem Ansari was conducting the viva examination. Based on the student complaints, Dr Ansari allegedly touched students inappropriately while conducting viva. Initially, students reportedly thought it might have been accidental, but the alleged misbehaviour continued. The situation escalated when he allegedly held the hand of one student, wrote his mobile number, and instructed her to contact him in the evening. Outraged by the actions, the students created a commotion and immediately approached the college principal, submitting a written complaint detailing the incidents. Simultaneously, the students also informed the Ganganahar Police Station about the matter over the phone. Speaking about the incident, Ganganahar Police Station In-charge R.K. Saklani stated, Upon receiving information, police reached the college and took the professor into custody. Students and staff gathered at the police station, demanding strict action against the accused professor. The victim students filed a formal written complaint (tahrir) against him. Based on the complaint filed by the students, a case has been registered against the accused and he has been arrested, Saklani confirmed. The arrested professor is a resident of Kurkawal, Doiwala, in Dehradun. This incident marks the second such case reported in Roorkee within a fortnight. Just a week prior, the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Roorkee terminated the services of a 60-year-old Professor Zillur Rahman following a sexual harassment complaint filed by a female student. The student who was pursuing her PhD under the supervision of Professor Rahman filed her complaint in January. Following the complaint, an internal committee had conducted an inquiry and found the professor guilty, leading to his removal from his position.

Delhi-Dehradun Expressway nears completion, is being delayed due to...

This six-lane controlled access corridor runs through the states of Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, and Uttarakhand, including important towns such as Baghpat, Baraut, Shamli, and Saharanpur.

Cockroaches first: Unveiling Badrinath's ancient pre-meal ritual

DEHRADUN: Uttarakhand, the land of Gods, is globally famed for its ancient shrines and unique customs. But a little-known fact about the renowned Badrinath Dham reveals a truly surprising ritual: before the midday meal is offered to the deity, food is first given to cockroaches. According to the local Purohits (priests) here, This centuries-old temple tradition is based on the principle of satisfying all living beings before the Lord receives his 'Bhog'. The practice also includes offerings to cows and birds. Only after these creatures have been fed does Lord Narayan accept his 'Rajbhog', the royal meal. In households across the nation, the sight of a cockroach typically triggers a wave of revulsion, leading to a swift application of pesticides and determined efforts to banish them from kitchens and homes. Yet, within the hallowed precincts of Bhuvai Kunth, the earthly Vaikuntha, lies a tradition that stands in stark contrast to this common reaction. At the revered Badrinath Dham, an astonishing ritual takes place daily. Before the midday 'Rajbhog' the royal meal offered to Lord Narayan himself a portion of the sacred offering is first presented to cockroaches. This isn't about fondness for the creatures, but about a profound principle embedded in our ancient customs. It is believed that all living beings, no matter how humble, must be satisfied before the divine deity partakes of the meal, explained a temple insider. In a custom that sets it apart, Badrinath Dham ensures that various creatures are fed daily before the main offering is made to Lord Narayan, the temple's Rawal revealed to the TNIE. While the schedule of daily offerings (Bhog) to Lord Badri Vishal is elaborate, few outside the temple know about this specific pre-deity feeding. In the morning, Panchmeva Bhog is offered, the Rawal explained, outlining the daily routine. After Abhishek, Baal Bhog is given, and Pind Prasad for ancestors is prepared. He detailed the subsequent meals: At noon, the Raj Bhog, which includes Saffron rice, lentil rice, and Laddus, is dedicated. In the evening, Milk rice is offered to Narayan. The Rawal then revealed the temple's distinctive practice: The crucial point is that before the midday Raj Bhog is offered to Narayan, offerings must first be made to cockroaches, cows, and birds. Explaining the temple's unique pre-deity feeding ritual, former Dharmadhikari Bhuvan Chandra Uniyal said, Lord Narayan holds the feeling of satisfying all creatures in the world before accepting the Raj Bhog. Uniyal detailed that rice is offered to cockroaches, known locally as Jhodu Sangla, near Taptkund in Garud Kutir. The tradition is believed to originate in the 8th century with Adi Guru Shankaracharya, who moved the Vishnu idol to a location where these cockroaches resided, leading to offerings being made to them alongside the deity ever since.

India's Longest Passenger Ropeway To Connect Dehradun-Mussoorie In Just 20 Mins - Details Inside

Set to begin operations in September 2026, the 5.2-kilometre monocable detachable gondola system will ascend 1,000 metres, connecting Dehradun to Mussoorie.

Uttarakhand Congress accuses BJP of using Indian Army for votes

DEHRADUN: The Uttarakhand Congress has criticised the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) for allegedly using the Army for political gain, after initially defending the Centre and the Army's actions in 'Operation Sindoor'. The party's shift in stance comes after a three-day silence on the matter. Reacting specifically to the BJP's announced 'Tiranga Yatra', explicitly being conducted under the name of 'Operation Sindoor', Suryakant Dhasmana, Senior Vice President of the Uttarakhand Pradesh Congress Committee, drew distinction with Congress' historical actions. He highlighted that the Congress party had previously conducted Tiranga Yatras across the country when the Army had actively engaged in fighting against enemies on and across the border. He stated that such yatras were aimed solely at boosting the morale of the soldiers and demonstrating full national support. Lakhs of Congress workers fulfilled their national duty by holding such Tiranga Jai Hind Yatras in various parts of the country, including the state capital Dehradun, Dhasmana recalled, contrasting with the BJP's current initiative. Dhasmana acknowledged the BJP's planned yatra but immediately pivoted to a more fundamental concern. While stating that Congress had 'no objection' to the BJP's yatra, he also added, The BJP and the Prime Minister of the country must answer the biggest question in the minds of the people: Who gave America the right to decide India's security, self-defence, and sovereignty? He pointed to President Trump's announcement of a ceasefire in the India-Pakistan conflict, his continuous offers to mediate on the Kashmir issue, and notably, his address to the world even before Prime Minister Narendra Modi's national address. Trump clearly stated that he got India and Pakistan to cease fire by scolding and threatening them, Dhasmana stated. Based on such instances, Dhasmana stressed that PM Modi and the BJP government must tell the people of the country whether the country's defence, trade, and foreign policy are being run by India or by the American President.

Game-changer: How India's homegrown Iron Dome made a Pakistan-drone-crushing debut

BHUBANESWAR: India thwarted over 600 drone attacks in last six days, and how! The Russian-made S-400 air defence system was given the credit initially. But it was the indigenously developed 'Iron Dome' by DRDO that proved to be a game-changer in effectively neutralising the drone swarms launched by Pakistan in response to India's precision strike on terror hubs there. The system was developed by the premier defence agency in a record two years time and proved its battle worthiness with aplomb. If the iron dome system of Israel thwarted rocket attacks by Hamas in Gaza and Houthis in Yemen, it was the advanced drone detect, deter and destroy system deployed by India that neutralised all aerial threats from Pakistan with remarkable precision, a defence official told The New Indian Express . The counter-drone system developed by DRDO labs, including Bengaluru-based Electronics and Radar Development Establishment, Hyderabad-based Defence Electronics Research Laboratory, Centre for High Energy Systems and Sciences and Dehradun-based Instruments Research and Development Establishment, successfully detected the incoming drones within no time and destroyed the aerial threats. Defence sources said the newly-developed ground-based invisible shield, which was inducted in the three services - Indian Army, Navy and Air Force - in March, has been instrumental in preventing Pakistani drones, many of them of Turkish and Chinese origin, from penetrating Indian airspace and causing damage in realtime combat scenario since May 7. Manufactured by Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL), the laser-based integrated drone detection and interdiction system uses a multi-layered detection and neutralisation strategy. It combines radar and radio frequency detection, electro-optical tracking, GPS spoofing, and laser-based destruction to disable hostile drones. Equipped with high-energy laser technology, it offers both 'soft kill' and 'hard kill' options. The system is capable of identifying and neutralising single or swarm drone threats within a four km radius. Operation Sindoor Precision Defence body { font-family: Arial, sans-serif; background-color: #fdf5f5; padding: 20px; } h2 { color: #800000; /* Sindoor-like dark red */ text-align: center; margin-bottom: 20px; } table { width: 100%; border-collapse: collapse; background-color: #fff5f5; box-shadow: 0 0 10px rgba(128, 0, 0, 0.2); } th, td { border: 1px solid #d88; padding: 12px 16px; text-align: left; } th { background-color: #cc0000; color: white; font-size: 1.1em; } tr:nth-child(even) { background-color: #ffe6e6; } tr:hover { background-color: #f8d6d6; } Operation Sindoor Precision Defence Capabilities Capability Description System Origin Drone detect, deter and destroy system developed by DRDO Core Functions Realtime search, detection, tracking, and both soft/hard kill capabilities Soft Kill Mechanism RF detection and jamming, GPS jamming/spoofing to disable drone navigation Hard Kill Mechanism Laser-directed energy weapon system to physically destroy drones Command Centre Integrated command and control system with independent power source How India blunted Pakistan's low-cost strategy of drone swarming A DRDO scientist said the system can detect aerial threats through a combination of radar, radio frequency detectors, and electro-optical systems. Neutralisation begins with soft kill measures such as jamming of radio frequency, global navigation satellite system and GPS spoofing techniques that either deny or destroy navigation capabilities of the incoming drones mid-flight, he said. The system adopts a hard-kill approach and switches to directed energy weapons if the soft kill method proves insufficient. A high-powered laser weapon, developed by the Centre for High Energy Systems and Sciences, Hyderabad, then takes out the drone with pinpoint accuracy, the scientist said. With the swift deployment and successful operation of the anti-drone system, India has managed to blunt Pakistan's low-cost strategy of drone swarming, a tactic aimed at exhausting traditional air defence assets. The system assumed significance as unlike missiles, the laser weapons can be used repeatedly without significant replenishment concerns, giving India a sustained edge in long-duration engagements. The new counter-drone system is highly mobile and modular as it can be mounted on vehicles for battlefield deployment or installed in a static configuration at critical installations. The static version offers 360-degree surveillance and can take down even small drones used for reconnaissance or targeting. How BrahMos missile strikes forced Pakistan to agree to a ceasefire Part of a broader push The development of the system has been part of a broader push for indigenisation in defence manufacturing. Apart from BEL, private sector firms such as Adani Defence and L&T have partnered with DRDO in advancing anti-drone capabilities. A vehicle-mounted counter-drone system developed by Adani has already been unveiled at Aero India 2025. With seamless protection through advanced sensor capabilities, including automatic detection, classification, and neutralisation of drones, it ensures long-range protection, agility, and precision, making it a formidable asset for modern defence forces.. Although more than 100 companies worldwide are into the manufacturing of counter-drone systems, only the US and Israel have achieved expertise in the area. India's homegrown anti-drone system has already set a benchmark during the recent conflict, sources claimed. Induction of the system into the services has been one of the fastest. DRDO is now developing the GenNex anti-drone system aimed at enhancing detection range, processing speed, and kill accuracy. Once developed, it would be the third country to possess the technology, the sources added.

SC Seeks Uttarakhand's Reply on Dargah Demolition Despite Waqf Protection

Contempt plea alleges Dehradun shrine razed despite Centres assurance to court; hearing set for May 15

4 booked for duping Char Dham devotees from Andhra Pradesh in heli ticket fraud

Dehradun: An FIR was filed on Monday at Guptkashi police station in Rudraprayag district against four individuals, including the owner of a Delhi-base.

Mussoorie Sky Car Private Limited To Launch Indias Longest Passenger Ropeway Connecting Mussoorie And Dehradun

New Delhi: A new chapter in sustainable mountain tourism and urban mobility is about to unfold as Mussoorie Sky Car Private Limited gears up to launch the highly anticipated Dehradun-Mussoorie ropeway. This cutting-edge mono-cable detachable gondola system will span 5.2 kilometres and ascend 1,000 meters, dramatically reducing travel time between Dehradun and Mussoorie to just 20 minutes. The construction of its initial phase it planned to be completed by September 2026. Once operational, it will be South Asias longest ropeway [] The post Mussoorie Sky Car Private Limited To Launch Indias Longest Passenger Ropeway Connecting Mussoorie And Dehradun appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Dehradun defence hubs on high alert; scientists rushed to frontlines amid Pak standoff

DEHRADUN: Amidst heightened tensions with Pakistan, India is reportedly accelerating its defence preparations, leading to increased demand for defence scientists and their expertise. This move is seen as crucial for maintaining readiness on the frontlines. Concurrently, defence scientists stationed in Dehradun have been swiftly dispatched to various fronts, officials added, signifying a heightened state of readiness across key defence establishments. These scientists are drawn from Dehradun's vital defence establishments, which are responsible for developing crucial components for the armed forces' weapons and equipment. They have been sent to relevant operational sites to provide immediate technical expertise and support. The focus is on ensuring our defence assets are at peak readiness and performance during this critical period, a source familiar with the deployment told this newspaper. Dehradun serves as a vital hub for defence research and production, housing key Defence Research Development Organisation (DRDO) institutions like the Instruments Research & Development Establishment (IRDE) and Defence Electronics & Applications Laboratory (DEAL). Defence sources indicate that numerous products from IRDE and DEAL are integrated into missiles and other defence systems currently deployed across various locations. Our scientists are now being sent to these deployment sites to ensure peak performance of the equipment, a source confirmed, highlighting the critical role of technical support in the field. Among the advanced technologies developed, IRDE has reportedly created proximity fuses for laser-guided missiles. This laser-based system guides the missile by emitting waves ahead of it, ensuring accuracy even if enemy aircraft change position. Sources also noted the Army's use of systems like wide area CCDs, thermal imagers, spy systems, and fire control computers developed by these labs for surveillance and attack capabilities. DEAL contributes significantly with satellite and defence communication products. While most ordnance factories nationwide have cancelled staff holidays, the Dehradun Ordnance Factory and Opto Electronics Factory currently maintain theirs.However, personnel are on high alert and have been instructed to be ready for round-the-clock production of vital defence components, such as day-night vision products, if the need arises. We are prepared to scale up operations instantly, an official stated.

COMEDK UGET third shift exam postponed

BENGALURU: Amid rising tensions between India and Pakistan, the Consortium of Medical, Engineering, and Dental Colleges of Karnataka (COMEDK) Undergraduate Entrance Test (UGET) third shift exam was postponed at selected centres across the country on Saturday. The decision, which impacted several regions, was made as a precautionary measure following government directives under Operation Sindoor to ensure the safety of candidates. While the exam was entirely (all three shifts) postponed at centres in border cities like Jamnagar, Srinagar, Jammu, Ludhiana, Bathinda, Jalandhar, Mohali, Patiala, Amritsar, Jodhpur, Bikaner and Sriganganagar, the COMEDK decided to postpone the third shift (5.30 pm to 8.30 pm) at several other centres within the same cities. Affected cities included New Delhi, Dehradun, Haldwani, Roorkee, as well as seven centres in Rajasthan, including Ajmer, Alwar, Bhilwara, Jaipur, Kota, Sikar, and Udaipur. In an official statement, Dr S Kumar, Executive Secretary of COMEDK, said the postponement was implemented due to potential disruptions, such as blackouts or power outages, and to ensure the safety of candidates travelling back home after the exam. The precautionary protocol is adopted with the safety of our candidates in mind, he said, adding that candidates are advised to stay updated by regularly checking the COMEDK website for rescheduled dates. More than 3,000 students were expected to take the exam in these centres. The examination proceeded as scheduled for all other candidates in different cities. Some students at an advantage: Parents Some parents and students, however, argued that the government should have postponed the exam for all students across all centres, especially since the decision to defer the COMEDK third shift was made at the last minute. While they acknowledged that the move was justified for the safety of students, they pointed out that it may result as an unfair advantage - students who appear for the rescheduled third shift will face less competition compared to those in shifts one and two, possibly resulting in higher percentiles and better ranks, many said. KEA to verify docUMENTs of J&K students through video call Bengaluru: The Karnataka Examinations Authority (KEA) on Saturday announced special provisions for students from Jammu and Kashmir for the CET document verification process, considering the tensions along the border. The executive director of the KEA, H Prasanna, said that among the 204 students from Jammu and Kashmir who have attended CET, only 52 have been able to complete the document verification. Considering the prevailing conditions in the border region, KEA is offering an additional chance for students from the region, and there is no need to panic. If the situation does not improve within the next 1015 days, document verification will be facilitated through video conferencing to ensure that students are not inconvenienced in any way, he said. ENS

Char Dham Yatra under high alert as ATS, paramilitary forces deployed despite India-Pakistan ceasefire

DEHRADUN: Despite an announced ceasefire , Uttarakhand has significantly ramped up security for the revered Char Dham pilgrimage, citing heightened tensions stemming from the recent three-day war-like standoff between India and Pakistan. Security for the revered Char Dham pilgrimage has been significantly bolstered, with police announcing they are on high alert mode. In a historic first aimed at further tightening safety measures, the Anti-Terror Squad (ATS) has been deployed along the Char Dham route, a spokesperson for the Police Headquarters confirmed. Additionally, the Indian Reserve Battalion (IRB) is stationed at Badrinath Dham, a bomb disposal squad is in place at Kedarnath, and paramilitary forces have been deployed at the Gangotri and Yamunotri shrines, as well as along the pilgrimage routes. IG Garhwal and Char Dham Yatra Nodal Officer, Rajiv Swaroop, stated that while preparations began months ago, the current situation necessitated enhanced measures to ensure the safety and smooth conduct of the internationally renowned religious journey. Detailing the increased security deployment, IG Garhwal Rajiv Swaroop stated, During the Char Dham Yatra season last year, approximately 5,000 police personnel and officers were deployed. This year, their number has been increased to 6,000. He added, Along with this, we have received six companies of paramilitary forces, which are being deployed strategically. Pakistan violating ceasefire, India retaliating: Foreign secretary Misri IG Swaroop further stated , To ensure the safety of the pilgrims, 11 teams of the ATS have been deployed. Many police personnel in plain clothes have also been deployed to keep an eye on and apprehend unwanted individuals. Verification drives are being conducted, and fingerprints are also being taken, which we match with our national portal to check if the person has any criminal record. Every year, the Char Dham Yatra takes place in Uttarakhand, with devotees from India and abroad coming for darshan. The administration prepares in advance for their safe journey. We had made preparations several months ago, but given the tension due to the present scenario, security arrangements have been further strengthened, said IG Garhwal Rajiv Swaroop. He emphasised, This is a religious pilgrimage of international repute connected with faith. Ensuring a smooth and safe journey is our priority. All arrangements have been made by the police administration for this. Surveillance is being kept in many areas through drones. The police administration has further strengthened the monitoring system so that any suspicious person can be identified. India shuts down Pakistan's false claims in press conference after ceasefire agreement

Patriotism on wheels: Martyr's son offers free rides to stranded soldiers

DEHRADUN: Amid escalating tensions along the IndiaPakistan border, a 43-year-old tour and travel operator from Uttarakhands Pithoragarh district has pledged to provide free transportation to soldiers returning to duty after their leave was abruptly cancelled. Bhupendra Singh, the son of a decorated war veteran, is offering free rides to Delhi and other locations for troops stranded due to the sudden shift in orders. Bhupendra, who runs a taxi service, hails from Baluwakot village, just 160 km from the China border. He is the son of the late Pan Singh, a medal-winning soldier who fought in the 1962 and 1971 wars. Although Bhupendra could not join the armed forces himself due to his incomplete education, he has found another way to serve the nation during a time of rising military alert. Around 400 drones used to target military bases, places of worship: Centre on Pakistani escalation Explaining the motivation behind his gesture, he told TNIE, When I saw on television last night that a war-like situation was developing between India and Pakistan and soldiers' leaves were being cancelled, I made this resolve to offer a small transport service for the sake of national service. He estimated that nearly 500 soldiers were currently on leave at home in Dharchula, Pithoragarh, and many could face difficulties returning to their respective units. Bhupendras commitment to the army is also deeply personal, his son, Pankaj Singh, currently serves in the Indian Army. I am happy that I am a soldier's son and my son is also a soldier. Although I harboured a strong desire to serve the nation as an army officer myself, by contributing through my travel business, I stand with the Indian Army today, he added. When asked how long he planned to continue offering the free service, Bhupendra said with resolve, Until peace is restored on the IndiaPakistan border. Tensions soar in Jammu & Kashmir after Pak's failed drone attack, heavy shelling; woman killed, four injured

TDP MPs sister among six killed in Uttarakhand helicopter crash

VIJAYAWADA: TDP Lok Sabha member from Anantapur, G Lakshminarayana, confirmed that his sister, M Vedavati, was among the six killed in a helicopter crash in Uttarakhand on Thursday. Her husband, M Bhaskar, survived but sustained serious injuries. The private helicopter, carrying seven passengers en route to Gangotri temple, crashed near Gangnani in Uttarkashi district at approximately 8:45 am, killing six, including the pilot, according to officials. Vedavati, from Guntakal, was travelling with her husband as part of the Char Dham Yatra, having begun their pilgrimage to Uttarakhands sacred sites on Sunday. Bhaskar suffered fractures to his legs and ribs in the crash and is receiving treatment at AIIMS, Rishikesh, where his condition is reported as stable. Following the incident, MP Lakshminarayana and his brother Badri travelled to Dehradun, but their flight was diverted to Delhi due to adverse weather conditions. Minister for Tourism Kandula Durgesh expressed profound sorrow over Vedavatis death, extending condolences to the family.

Uttarakhand on high alert: CM Pushkar Singh Dhami orders security surge; focus on Char Dham, borders

DEHRADUN: Uttarakhand has been placed on high alert after Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami ordered a major security surge across the state, specifically targeting the ongoing Char Dham Yatra, strategic installations, and border areas. The decisive directive was issued during a high-level review meeting chaired by the Chief Minister at his residence, immediately following his participation in a virtual session led by Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Wednesday. The focus of the state-level meeting was to assess and bolster security preparedness in view of the prevailing international border situations. In view of the prevailing international border situations, strengthened security arrangements are crucial across the state, Chief Minister Dhami stated, directing administration, police, and related departments to remain on high alert. He specifically emphasized the need for robust surveillance and security measures in all border areas of the state. Any suspicious activity in the frontier regions must be closely monitored, he instructed officials. Highlighting the ongoing Char Dham Yatra, which sees lakhs of pilgrims, CM Dhami stressed the need for heightened security across all pilgrimage routes and at all four holy shrines. He also underlined the importance of securing nationally significant institutions located within the state. Further directives included ensuring the uninterrupted supply of food and essential goods at district and tehsil levels for emergency preparedness. Hospitals were instructed to remain on alert with adequate supplies of emergency medicines, while civil defence teams and voluntary organisations were to be trained and kept ready for rescue and relief operations. Addressing potential misinformation, CM Dhami urged officials to disseminate only accurate and verified information to the public to avoid panic. He called for strict action against those spreading rumours and instructed continuous monitoring of social media platforms. In light of the current situation, the Chief Minister directed that government personnel should not be granted leave unless necessary. District Magistrates and Superintendents of Police have been instructed to review and strengthen security arrangements in their respective jurisdictions. Appealing for public cooperation in maintaining peace and order, CM Dhami assured that the state government is fully prepared to provide all necessary support. He also expressed gratitude to Union Home Minister Amit Shah for providing additional Central security forces for the Char Dham Yatra.

IIT Roorkee sacks 60-year-old senior professor after sexual harassment probe

DEHRADUN: A senior professor at the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Roorkee has been dismissed from service following an internal investigation into allegations of sexual harassment made by a research student. The incident has stirred strong reactions within the prestigious institute. According to sources, the student, who was pursuing her PhD under the supervision of Professor Zillur Rahman (60), filed a complaint of sexual harassment against him in January. Following the complaint, an internal committee conducted an inquiry and found the professor guilty. Based on the committees findings, the professor was removed from his position. At the time of his dismissal, Professor Rahman, was supervising over 15 PhD scholars. He was one of the most senior faculty members at the institute and had previously served as the head of the Department of Management Studies. Confirming the action, IIT Roorkee issued an official statement: A faculty member of the institute has been dismissed from service after the completion of disciplinary proceedings against him. The institute also emphasized its commitment to upholding professional ethics and institutional integrity. This is the first time such an incident has been reported in the history of IIT Roorkee, the statement added.

Six killed, one injured in helicopter crash en route to Gangotri shrine in Uttarakhand

DEHRADUN: A private helicopter en route to the Gangotri shrine crashed near Gangnani in Uttarkashi district on Thursday, leaving six tourists dead and the pilot critically injured. According to information received from SDRF sources, the helicopter, operated by AeroTrans Services Private Limited (VT-OXF) and piloted by Captain Robin Singh, had taken off from the Sahastradhara helipad in Dehradun at 8:50 am on Thursday morning with six passengers. The helicopter was scheduled to land at the Kharsali helipad, located approximately six kilometres from Gangotri Dham, when the crash occurred unexpectedly near the Rishikesh-Gangotri National Highway. The deceased have been identified as Kala Soni, 61, Vijaya Reddy, 57, and Ruchi Aggarwal, 56, all from Mumbai; Radha Aggarwal, 79, from Uttar Pradesh; Vedavati Kumari, 48, from Andhra Pradesh; and the pilot, Robin Singh, from Gujarat. The injured person has been identified as Bhaskar from Andhra Pradesh. SDRF Commandant Arpan Yaduvanshi told TNIE , Uttarkashi Police and State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) teams are engaged in relief and rescue work at the spot. The investigation into the causes of the accident is ongoing. Upon reaching the crash site, the SDRF team from Bhatwadi observed that the helicopter had fallen into a deep gorge, approximately 200 to 250 metres deep. The team has established a base at the scene and commenced rescue operations to descend into the gorge. Garhwal Divisional Commissioner Vinay Shankar Pandey confirmed that the rescue operation was underway, with administration and relief teams present at the site. Expressing grief over the helicopter crash, Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami ordered an investigation into the incident. SDRF and district administration teams were dispatched immediately to the crash site for relief and rescue operations. Notably, this incident follows a recent emergency landing in the region. On 5 May, a helicopter carrying pilgrims from Badrinath to Dehradun had to make an emergency landing at the Gopeshwar sports ground due to inclement weather in the Badrinath Dham area. The crash also occurred on a day when the Meteorological Department had issued a weather warning for Uttarakhand. Light to moderate rain, accompanied by lightning and strong winds, was forecast for Thursday in districts including Dehradun, Uttarkashi, Chamoli, Rudraprayag, Tehri, Pauri, Nainital, and Champawat.

Five dead, two injured in helicopter crash en route to Gangotri shrine in Uttarakhand

UTTARKASHI: Five persons were killed and two others injured on Thursday when a private company's helicopter on way to Gangotri shrine crashed near Gangnani in Uttarkashi district, officials said. The helicopter carrying a total of seven people, including the pilot, crashed on the Rishikesh-Gangotri National Highway at around 8:45 am. According to information received from the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), the helicopter belonging to AeroTrans Services Private Limited crashed and fell into a gorge about 200-250 metres deep. The SDRF said the helicopter had left from Sahastradhara helipad in Dehradun for Kharsali helipad in Yamunotri. While four on board were from Mumbai, two others hailed from Andhra Pradesh. Capt Robin Singh was flying the helicopter, the SDRF said. Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami expressed grief over the loss of lives in the accident. The administration has been instructed to provide all possible help to the injured and investigate the accident, he said, adding that he is constantly in touch with officials and monitoring the situation.

Uttarakhand: Comprehensive mock drill carried out at seven locations in Dehradun

Following the Pahalgam terror attack, India conducted nationwide civil defence mock drills across major cities like Delhi and Mumbai, directed by the MHA to assess preparedness against evolving threats. These drills, encompassing simulations of blackouts and evacuations, aimed to enhance public awareness and response capabilities during emergencies.

CM Dhami lauds 'Operation Sindoor', hails women fighter pilots and vows to make Uttarakhand the best state

CM Pushkar Singh Dhami, at a felicitation event in Dehradun, praised the Indian Army's 'Operation Sindoor' and lauded the role of women fighter pilots. He highlighted India's commitment to peace but firm response to threats, and reaffirmed his goal to make Uttarakhand the best state.

'Precision strike, on expected lines': Defence experts on Operation Sindoor

NEW DELHI: Defence experts on Wednesday hailed the missile strikes carried out by Indian armed forces under 'Operation Sindoor' as a precision strike against terror infrastructure and said the action was very much on expected lines. Some experts also said the action by India would serve as a lesson to Pakistan and warn them that they should not go beyond this. In retaliation to the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack, Indian armed forces early Wednesday carried out missile strikes on nine terror targets in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK), including the Jaish-e-Mohammad stronghold of Bahawalpur and Lashkar-e-Taiba's base Muridke. Brig Rahul Bhonsle (retd), a strategic affairs expert from Security Risks Asia, said the strike was on expected lines give the preceding chain of events. It was expected, as the Prime Minister, Home Minister and the Defence Minister had indicated earlier that terrorists and terror infrastructure will be found and hit. So, Operation Sindoor is a result of that, he told PTI. Brig Bhonsle said it is a precision strike against terror infrastructure and it has been declared that o military installation has been hit. He further said the US will aim to have this situation not escalate further. Hours after the strike, Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri briefed mediapersons here and said it was deemed essential that the perpetrators and planners of the April 22 Pahalgam attack be brought to justice as there was o demonstrable step from Islamabad to take action against the terror infrastructure on its territory or on territory under its control. Escalating Pakistans cost: Indias calculated strikes and the message behind Operation Sindoor Misri said Indian military carried out a measured, non-escalatory, proportionate, and responsible strike to dismantle terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan to deter and to pre-empt any further terrorist strikes. In Dehradun, security and anti-terrorism expert Brig Govind Singh Sisodia (retd), echoed Brig Bhonsle, and said, It was on expected lines. The way India, the Indian government and the PM had said... And, pinpoint targets, he told PTI. He said Operation Sindoor has also demonstrated the well-coordinated tri-services synergy. He added that a lesson also has gone to Pakistan that we are not going to do it on small scale, this is just a 'trailer', and a warning that hey should not go beyond this. Brig Sisodia said retaliation from Pakistan side is expected, as they will ry to save face, retaliate but India is capable of responding to it. Brig Prithpal Singh Chandhok (retd) said he has participated in Siachen action in 1980s and Operation Parakram in the past. I fully support the action taken by the Indian Army and the Indian defence forces to counter it, he said. Operation 'Sindoor': Why India chose these nine terror hubs in Pakistan, PoK

Hindu groups protest against minor girl's rape in Uttarakhand's Nainital

DEHRADUN: Hindu groups took to the streets in massive protest raising slogans against the alleged rape of a minor girl in Uttarakhand's Nainital district Tensions remain high in the area despite the arrest of the accused, Osman. The protest march began from Mallital and culminated in a rally in front of the Nagar Palika. The protesters clashed with police during the demonstration. Despite efforts by the police to barricade the route, the protesters managed to break through and proceeded towards the High Court. Nainiatal police have registered a case based on a report filed by the mother of a minor girl regarding her alleged rape. According to the mother's complaint, contractor Usman allegedly lured her to his home by offering two hundred rupees, where he raped the girl in a car parked in the garage. When the girl resisted, he reportedly showed a knife and tied a cloth over her mouth. The complaint further alleges that Usman threatened to eliminate the entire family if the incident was reported. In her statement, the mother also mentioned that she has two daughters from her first marriage, studying in classes seven and eight at a private school, and that her second marriage took place in 2016 in Uttar Pradesh's Sambhal district. She reportedly travels back and forth from Sambhal to oversee the care of the girls living here. The mother further said that she had been in Sambhal for the past few days. According to police sources, when the victim reached home staggering, her older sister immediately asked her what was wrong. However, the girl remained silent. She continued to be withdrawn for several days, prompting her older sister to first contact their grandmother, who then called their mother. Police sources said that when the mother questioned the child, she finally revealed the details of the incident. The formal police report was subsequently filed at Mallital police station on Wednesday evening.

Badrinath Dham portals open for devotees

DEHRADUN: The portals of the world-famous Shri Badrinath Dham were opened on May 4 for devotees from India and around the world, marking the beginning of the six-month summer pilgrimage season. The sacred ceremony took place amidst the soul-stirring devotional tunes played by the band of the Garhwal Scouts Regiment of the Indian Army. Following the opening, a large crowd of devotees surged forward to catch the first glimpse of the deity and offer prayers. State Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami was also present at Shri Badrinath Dham to witness the auspicious occasion and offer his respects. Earlier, the divine Doli (palanquin procession), Devbhara Yatra carrying the idols of Lord Badri Vishal's assembly, including the principal deities Uddhav ji and Kuber ji, the Garuda Utsav palanquin, and the seat of Shankaracharya ji, arrived at Badrinath Dham on Saturday. These deities had been residing at the Yogdhyan Badri temple in Pandukeshwar during the six-month winter closure. BKTC Chief Executive Officer Vijay Prasad Thapliyal stated, The Devbhara Yatra, led by Rawal Amarnath Namboodiri and accompanied by hundreds of devotees, reached Badrinath Dham after the six-month winter closure during which the deities were housed at the Pandukeshwar Yogdhyan Badri temple. The Devbhara Yatra proceeded from Devdarshini to Bhamani village and then towards the Badrinath temple. Following ancient rituals at Lila Dhungi, the birthplace of Lord Narayan, Rawal Amarnath Namboodiri led the procession through the old market to the Singhdwar (main gate) of the Badrinath temple. Upon reaching the temple complex, devotees greeted the Devbhara Yatra with resounding chants of Jai Badri Vishal, filling the entire Badrish Puri with echoes of Jai Narayan. At 5:00 am, Rawal Amarnath Namboodiri, along with notable figures including BJP State President and Rajya Sabha MP Mahendra Bhatt, District Magistrate Sandeep Tiwari, former Rawal Ishwar Prasad Namboodiri, Dharmadhikari Radhakrishna Thapliyal, Rajpurohit Kanta Prasad Nautiyal, former Dharmadhikari Bhuvan Chandra Uniyal, Vedpathi Ravindra Bhatt, representatives of the Dimri Panchayat entered the temple complex to participate in the portal-opening rituals (Dwar Puja). Temple committee officials, employees, and Indian Army officers also participated in the rituals. The Garhwal Scouts band played melodious and devotional tunes of 'Jai Badri, Jai Kedar,' immersing Badrishupuri in a spiritual atmosphere. After paying respects at the Singhdwar, Uddhav ji was placed in the worship area at the Rawal's residence, while Kuber ji, the treasurer of the gods, was taken to the Maa Nanda Devi temple in Bhamani village for the overnight stay.

Massive Hercules tiger, believed to be Asias largest stuns Uttarakhand

DEHRADUN: An exceptionally large tiger, nicknamed 'Hercules ' for his massive size, has become the centre of excitement and speculation in Uttarakhands Ramnagar area. Roaming the Phato tourism zone, the massive big cat has drawn widespread attention, with some believing he could be the largest tiger currently in Asia. Preliminary estimates suggest the majestic big cat weighs around 300 kilograms and stretches nearly 7 feet in length. These remarkable figures have fuelled speculation that he could be Asias largest tiger, shining a spotlight on the regions thriving wildlife. Confirming the presence of the large tiger, Prakash Arya, the Divisional Forest Officer of the Terai West Forest Division, shared his personal astonishment. In my entire career, I have never seen such a giant tiger, DFO Arya told TNIE . This is a clear symbol of the rich biodiversity and the success of our management efforts in this forest area, he added. He reiterated that the tiger is exceptionally large, highlighting that a big cat of such immense size had not been observed previously in the region. The Forest Department has initiated vigilant monitoring of the tiger's activities. Officials are extensively utilising camera traps across the zone to track its movements and gather crucial data on the colossal animal. Local guides familiar with the area have also been struck by the tiger's size and the excitement he generates. We've seen many tigers here, but nothing compares to 'Hercules', remarked one guide, who requested anonymity. His sheer size is incredible. He truly looks like the mythical hero, hence the name. Tourists fortunate enough to spot the massive big cat have described the encounter as awe-inspiring. Seeing 'Hercules' was an unforgettable experience, shared Priya Sharma, a visitor from Delhi. His presence is overwhelming. If he is indeed the largest in Asia, it puts Uttarakhand on the map in a very special way, she said. Providing context on the state's tiger population, Dr Saket Badola, Director of Corbett Tiger Reserve, told TNIE, As per the 2022 census data, Uttarakhand is home to a robust population of 560 tigers. This impressive figure places the state firmly among the top contributors to India's overall tiger numbers. Dr Badola attributed this encouraging growth to the state's excellent habitat and environment, which he said provide optimal conditions for the big cats to flourish and reproduce. Nationally, the 2022 census estimated India's total tiger population between 3,682 and 3,925, with Madhya Pradesh leading at 785 and Karnataka second at 563. Wildlife experts are closely following developments. They believe that official confirmation of this tiger being the largest currently roaming Asia would bring significant international recognition to the Phato Zone, substantially boosting its profile on the global wildlife map.

Bad weather re-routes Bengaluru bound flights to Chennai

CHENNAI: Chennai International Airport briefly became an unscheduled hub on Friday evening after inclement weather forced at least four flights bound for Kempegowda International Airport in Bengaluru to be diverted mid-air. According to sources, three domestic passenger flights and one international cargo service were rerouted to Chennai between 6:25 pm and 7:10 pm. The diversions included two IndiGo flights-6E6014 from Dehradun and 6E6508 from Rajkots Hirasar Airport (HSR) as well as an Air India Express service (IX2747) originating from Bagdogra. All three aircraft were scheduled to arrive in Bengaluru but were redirected to Chennai, landing within minutes of one another. Also diverted was a long-haul Boeing 777 freighter, operated by German cargo airline AeroLogic. Flight 3S0533 had departed from Hong Kong and was enroute to Bengaluru when it was diverted. It landed in Chennai at 7:10 pm and was parked at the remote stand designated for wide-body aircraft.

Dehradun Defence School: One of the Best NDA Coaching in Dehradun

Dehradun Defence School offers comprehensive academic and NDA exam coaching with expert faculty, modern facilities, and holistic development programs to prepare students for a successful career in the Indian Armed Forces.

Uttarakhand HC slams Nainital police, orders apology to rape accused over illegal eviction notice

DEHRADUN: In a significant rebuke to the local administration, the Uttarakhand High Court on Friday ordered the Nainital Municipality to withdraw an encroachment notice issued against the house of Usman, an accused in a minor girls rape case, and directed the authorities to issue him an unconditional apology. The court described the action of the administration as inappropriate and took strong exception to the violation of procedural norms. Usman's advocate, Dr Kartikeya Hari Gupta, argued before the court that the notice had been served in violation of the Supreme Courts guidelines, which mandate a 15-day notice period prior to any encroachment removal. The notice violated clear Supreme Court directives mandating a 15-day period before any encroachment removal, whereas the Municipality had provided only three days, and the accused was currently in jail, said Advocate Gupta. He also pointed out that dozens of other residents from the same area had received similar notices. The matter was heard by a special bench comprising Chief Justice G. Narendra and Justice Ravindra Maithani. During the hearing, Senior Superintendent of Police, Nainital, Prahlad Narayan Meena joined via video conferencing, while the First and Second Executive Officers of the Nainital Municipality were present in court. The Municipality conceded its error in issuing only a three-day notice and confirmed to the court that the notice would be withdrawn. The High Court, in a separate but related observation, expressed its strong displeasure over the protests that erupted in Nainital following Usmans arrest. It reprimanded the police, including the Senior Superintendent of Police, and directed that sensitive cases such as this be handled with greater strictness and caution. The next hearing has been scheduled for Tuesday, 6 May. The police and the Nagar Palika have been instructed to submit a detailed report on their compliance with the courts directions. Meanwhile, quiet tension reportedly continues in Nainital. While most shops are open, the usual hustle and bustle remains absent. According to sources, businesses belonging to a specific community were allegedly vandalised by Hindu organisations on Thursday. Sources also revealed that a section of Anjum Islamiyat, buoyed by the court's verdict, is contemplating approaching the High Court to seek compensation for the damages suffered during the vandalism.

Kedarnath Dham portals open amidst grandeur

DEHRADUN: The sacred portals of the world-renowned Kedarnath Dham, one of the twelve Jyotirlingas located in Rudraprayag, were formally opened on Friday morning amidst elaborate rituals. Following the opening, the Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami offered prayers at the shrine, seeking happiness, prosperity, and peace for the State. Notably, the very first prayer performed at Kedarnath Dham was offered on behalf of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The portals of Baba Kedar swung open at 7 am, accompanied by the resonant chanting of mantras, fervent slogans of 'Har Har Mahadev', and the devotional melodies played by the band of the Army's Grenadier Regiment. Extending his greetings to all countrymen on the opening of the portals, Chief Minister Dhami remarked, The state, as well as the entire nation, eagerly awaited this moment. He added, Kedarnath Dham is a major centre of religious faith for followers of Sanatan Dharma and also symbolises India's spiritual and cultural heritage. For our state, this is a time of celebration. Dhami highlighted the continuously increasing number of devotees visiting Baba Kedar's shrine each year. He expressed confidence that, with the blessings of Baba Kedar, this year's Char Dham Yatra would also set a new record. He assured that the state government has ensured all necessary arrangements for the systematic and successful operation of the Char Dham Yatra. All essential provisions have been made for the convenience, safety, and ease of pilgrims coming for the Char Dham Yatra, he stated. Chief Minister Dhami also highlighted Prime Minister Narendra Modi's profound devotion to Baba Kedarnath. Prime Minister Narendra Modi is an ardent devotee of Baba Kedarnath, the Chief Minister said. He recounted that the reconstruction of Kedarnath town commenced under the Prime Minister's leadership following the devastating 2013 disaster. It is under his guidance that the Kedarnath complex has been transformed through divine and grand reconstruction work, Dhami added. The Chief Minister also recalled that it was from this sacred land of Kedarnath that the Prime Minister had declared the third decade of the 21st century as 'Uttarakhand's Decade'. To fulfill his vision, the state government is continuously establishing new dimensions of development, he affirmed. Prior to the auspicious opening, the Kedarnath temple was adorned with spectacular decorations. The shrine was embellished with over 108 quintals of flowers, creating a vibrant and visually stunning spectacle. As the portals finally swung open amidst this grand floral display, a shower of flowers from a helicopter added to the sanctity of the moment, leaving the assembled devotees visibly overwhelmed and emotional.

Gen Pratik takes over command of Army Nr Command

Jammu, May 1: Lieutenant General Pratik Sharma on Thursday assumed the appointment of General Officer Commanding-in-Chief (GOC-in-C), Northern Command. As per the official communiqu, a highly decorated officer, Lieutenant General Pratik Sharma is an alumnus of NDA, Khadakwasla,IndianMilitaryAcademy, Dehradun andDefenceServicesStaffCollege,Wellington. He was commissioned into the MADRAS Regiment in December 1987. He is qualified on Higher [] The post Gen Pratik takes over command of Army Nr Command appeared first on Northlines .

Man beheads girlfriend, dumps body in canal in Uttarakhand; headless torso recovered

DEHRADUN : A 32-year-old taxi driver, has been arrested by the Haryana police for allegedly killing his girlfriend, in a bid to marry another woman. Based on the confession by Mushtaq Ali, the police have recovered a headless body from a canal in Sitarganj. According to the police, the victim, Pooja Mandal a resident of Bengali Colony in Nanakmatta, Uttarakhand, worked at a spa centre in Gurugram, along with her younger sister, Purmila Biswas. Pooja had returned to Sitarganj in November to meet Mushtaq Ali, but went missing, prompting her sister to file a missing person report at Sector 5 police station in Gurugram on December 19. The Haryana Police had been searching for Pooja continuously until Mushtaq's arrest on Wednesday. Udham Singh Nagar Senior Superintendent of Police, Manikant Mishra, confirmed that Mushtaq had confessed to killing Pooja by slitting her throat and throwing her body into the canal around five and a half months ago. Mushtaq allegedly met Pooja in 2022, and they began a love affair. However, when Mushtaq married another woman, Pooja confronted him, leading to an argument. Mushtaq then took Pooja to a secluded spot near the Nadanna canal, where he killed her. The police are currently searching for Pooja's head, which has not been recovered yet. Police and divers are scouring the canal to locate the missing body part. Further investigation is underway.

CBI takes NEET-UG 2024 question paper leak kingpin Sanjeev Mukhiya on four-day remand

PATNA: The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) on Thursday took Sanjeev Kumar Singh , alias Sanjeev Mukhiya, on a four-day remand for interrogation in connection with the NEET-UG 2024 question paper leak case. Mukhiya, the alleged mastermind behind several question paper leak rackets, was arrested from Patna last Friday. CBI special judge Sunil Kumar-2 granted the four-day remand after a petition was filed seeking his custody for interrogation in the undergraduate medical entrance exam case. Although the CBI had requested a seven-day remand, the court granted only four. Mukhiya, a native of Bihars Nalanda district, is believed to be at the centre of an inter-state solver gang involved in leaking question papers of various national-level exams. We hope to get substantial clue in the medical entrance exam question paper leak case, said an investigating officer on condition of anonymity. During an earlier interrogation by Bihar Polices Economic Offences Unit (EOU), Mukhiya reportedly claimed that he had helped several politicians, doctors and government officers by securing medical college seats for their children. He also confessed to maintaining connections with teachers at private coaching institutes, who would send candidates to him. He disclosed that the leaks were carried out in collusion with certain printing press employees. As soon as his men would inform him about question of a particular examination being printed in a press, he would start his work and contact them, the officer said. Mukhiya would allegedly offer hefty bribes to gain access to the papers. NTA initiates action against Telegram, Instagram channels claiming NEET-UG question paper leak Once the question papers were dispatched from the press, his men coordinated with carrier agents. The examination centre authorities were reportedly aware of only two locks on the boxes carrying the question papers, while Mukhiya had access to a third hidden lock. He would open the boxes, make xerox copies of the papers, reseal them carefully, and send them to the examination centres without raising suspicion. The xeroxed question papers were solved by his solver teams and passed on to the candidates before the exams. For the NEET-UG examination, the gang charged between Rs 40 to 50 lakh per candidate. Mukhiya claimed to have strong connections in examination rackets operating in Dehradun, Chandigarh, Lucknow, Kolkata, Gurugram, Noida and Gandhinagar. We used to take help of each other in our work, an investigating officer quoted him as saying. Revealing his personal motivation, Mukhiya reportedly told interrogators that he entered the question paper leak business to accumulate enough money to make his wife an MLA and eventually an MP. He said he had expanded his network to states including Jharkhand, Uttar Pradesh, Gujarat, Delhi, Punjab and West Bengal. Additional Director General (ADG) of EOU, Naiyar Hasnain Khan, said information had been sought regarding the cases registered against Mukhiya in other states. We have shared relevant information to police officers of different states where Mukhiya has been links, Khan said. The ADG clarified that Mukhiya was arrested from an apartment near Saguna Mor under Danapur police limits in connection with the Bihar constable and teachers recruitment exam leak cases being probed by the states investigating agency. Mukhiya also confessed during interrogation that his son, Dr Shiv Prakash, and his associate, Rocky, were active members of the gang. He admitted to his involvement in leaks of question papers of NEET, BPSC, and constable recruitment exams in both Uttar Pradesh and Bihar.

Vyasi Hydro Project becomes unexpected lifeline for endangered Golden Mahseer

DEHRADUN: The endangered Golden Mahseer, Uttarakhands state fish, is witnessing a revival thanks to an unusual ally, the Vyasi Hydroelectric Project. Operated by the Uttarakhand Jal Vidyut Nigam Limited (UJVNL), the project site now houses a dedicated hatchery that has successfully released 3,000 Golden Mahseer into their natural habitat. UJVNL initiated the Golden Mahseer hatchery at the Vyasi project site in February 2024, aligning with the states broader goals of environmental protection and biodiversity enhancement. Dr Sandeep Singhal, Managing Director of UJVNL, confirmed the project's details to TNIE, stating, This hatchery has been established under the technical guidance of the Directorate of Coldwater Fisheries Research, Bhimtal, an arm of the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR). Dr Singhal further elaborated, To date, approximately 9,000 Golden Mahseer fish have been produced at this hatchery. Out of these, 3,000 fish were released into the natural environment of the Vyasi reservoir under the first phase of ranching. The initial ranching process took place in the presence of key officials, including UJVNLs General Manager, Inder Mohan Karasi, and Chakrata Divisional Forest Officer, Abhimanyu Singh. Explaining the technique, Karasi said, Ranching is a method where fish reared in a hatchery are released into natural reservoirs to encourage their natural proliferation and growth. Abhimanyu Singh, Divisional Forest Officer for Chakrata under the Uttarakhand Forest Department, told this newspaper that the collaboration is crucial for conservation efforts. The Forest Department will endeavour to release these fish into other suitable water bodies as well, in order to conserve aquatic biodiversity, he added. The Golden Mahseer, historically found in rivers like the Ganga, Yamuna and Kosi, is categorised as endangered. This has prompted the state government to undertake focused conservation efforts. The success of the hatchery at Vyasi marks a significant milestone in these efforts.

Tourism takes hit in Uttarakhand's Nainital as protests erupt over minors rape case

DEHRADUN: Tourism in Nainital has taken a severe hit after massive protests broke out across the hill town on Wednesday, following the alleged rape of a 12-year-old girl by a 65-year-old man. Widespread cancellations of hotel bookings have been reported, and several tourists have cut their trips short amid the escalating unrest. The incident comes at a time when tensions are already high nationwide, particularly following the recent terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu & Kashmir. Public fury in Nainital has been amplified by the broader anger directed at a specific community, observers noted. The alleged crime triggered a complete shutdown across Nainital on Thursday. From Tallital to Mallital, shops, street vendors, and rickshaw services remained shut in protest. People are incredibly angry and hurt by this heinous act, said a local resident, requesting anonymity. Coming at a time when there is already so much tension, this has just made things worse. We want justice for the child. Heavy police deployment was seen citywide to maintain law and order. Many tourists are cutting trips short, a source said, adding that a significant number of online hotel booking cancellations have been received. Authorities have placed security forces at sensitive locations throughout the town, and officials confirmed that the situation remains tense but under control. The accused, identified as Usman, was arrested on Wednesday. He has been charged under the stringent Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act and relevant sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS). He was presented in court and remanded to judicial custody. Confirming the arrest, a senior police official said, We have kept the accused under tight security in view of the mob's unrest after taking him into custody. The medical examination of the accused is being conducted. Various organisations surrounded the local police station late Wednesday night, further fuelling the tension. Police sources also confirmed instances of shop vandalism in the area. On Thursday, thousands participated in a rally organised by Hindu groups in Mallital. Additional police forces were deployed in sensitive zones and outside the accuseds residence. Joint Magistrate Varuna Agarwal told reporters, Strict action will be taken against those attempting to create unrest, and legal proceedings are underway. Protesters have demanded stringent punishment for the accused, including property confiscation. They also called for verification drives for all outsiders, especially tenants and temporary workers from a specific community, and the identification and deportation of any illegally residing foreign nationals. The tourism business has been severely affected, said Nainital Hotel Association President Digvijay Singh Bisht. We received a large number of online booking cancellation messages. Authorities are actively monitoring social media to prevent the spread of misinformation.

Kashmiri shawl sellers slapped in Mussoorie, forced to shut shop

Dehradun: Two Kashmiri shawl sellers were slapped by a group of local men and forced to shut their shop in Uttarakhands Mussoorie. The attack took place on Tuesday, April 29. A video went viral on social media showing the assault on the Kashmiris. They were abused and slapped repeatedly by three persons led by a 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 .

CBI seeks prosecution of five officers in Uttarakhand's Corbett safari scam

DEHRADUN: The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has submitted its investigation report to the Uttarakhand government regarding the alleged illegal felling of over 6,000 trees and unauthorised construction work carried out under the guise of a tiger safari project in the Corbett Tiger Reserve. In a significant development, the central agency has sought permission from the state government to initiate prosecution proceedings against five officers allegedly involved in the irregularities. The CBI had formally registered a case in the high-profile Corbett tiger safari matter in October 2023, taking over the investigation into the extensive environmental damage and rule violations. Before the CBI's involvement, the case was under scrutiny by the state Vigilance Department. It was during the vigilance probe that the then Ranger Brij Bihari Sharma and Divisional Forest Officer (DFO) Kishan Chand were suspended and subsequently arrested in connection with the ongoing investigation. The CBI's latest report marks a crucial step towards potential legal action against more individuals. Following the CBI's probe, the Enforcement Directorate also launched an investigation into the alleged irregularities at Corbett Tiger Reserve in December 2023. While the ED probe remains ongoing, sources confirm the agency has already seized property worth Rs 31.8 crore belonging to former DFO Kishan Chand. According to reliable sources, serious questions have been raised about the role of Harak Singh Rawat, the former Forest Minister under the previous BJP government, with allegations directly implicating him in the scandal. The extensive irregularities in Corbett first came to light in 2021 through a petition filed by a Delhi High Court advocate. Acting on the court's directions, the National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) conducted an on-site investigation, which reportedly uncovered numerous discrepancies. Further investigations, including one by the Forest Survey of India, revealed the felling of over 6,000 trees. Sources indicate significant irregularities were found in construction works under the guise of a tiger safari in the Pakhru range, covering 106 hectares, as well as projects at Morghati, Kugaddha, Sneh, and the Pakhro rest house. Unauthorised construction also included an elephant wall, Kandi road, and a residence for the Chief Wildlife Warden in the core zone, allegedly undertaken by diverting over Rs 215 crore in funds. Departmental sources previously named several officials in connection with the irregularities, including the late KS Suhag (ex-CWLW), Sushant Patnaik (ex-CCF), Rahul (ex-Director Corbett), ex-DFOs Akhilesh Tiwari and Kishan Chand, and ex-Rangers Mathura Singh, Brij Bihari Sharma, and LR Nag. Reacting to the escalating investigation into the Corbett irregularities, Anu Pant, the petitioner, told TNIE: 'The way advocate Abhijay Negi has pursued the Forest Department's irregularities with strong legal arguments has significantly tightened the noose around the culprits, boosting public confidence in both the investigative agencies and the judiciary.'

Steps through time: Gen-Z dancers share their stories on World Dance Day

Dance isnt just about movement its about feeling, expression and storytelling. Every dancer has a unique journey that begins somewhere between a beat and a heartbeat. In this feature, we look into the personal anecdotes of dancers from across the country and beyond as they share how dance became an inseparable part of who they are. From childhood inspirations to social media fame, these dancers show us that behind every move, theres a story. As the world celebrate International Dance Day today (April 29)an annual event promoted by the International Dance Council (CID) and the International Theatre Institute to raise public awareness of dance as an art form The New Indian Express took the opportunity to speak with a few prominent Gen-Z dancers who have made their mark on social media. We asked them to share their thoughts on the transformative journey of dance, from traditional roots to modern expressions, in todays globalised world. Amisha Jayaram: From backyard grooves to stage performances For Amisha Jayaram, a 22-year-old dancer, choreographer, and creator from Manipal, Karnataka, dance has always been an integral part of her life. Growing up, she was inspired by watching her mother attend dance classes and perform casually on stage. Though she started at a young age, her passion quickly became something more serious. Dance has always been more than just a hobby for me its shaped who I am, Amisha shares. From dancing in my backyard as a toddler to now performing on large stages, dance is something I cant separate from who I am, like a buy-one-get-one deal. Wherever I go, when the music hits, I just move. Her first exposure to dance was when she was so young that she could barely walk. Her mother would bring her to dance classes because she was too small to stay home. Amisha would start grooving, not really knowing the steps, but with so much joy that her dance teacher noticed and encouraged her. This early belief from her teacher instilled a sense of confidence that drove her forward. As she grew older, Amisha began exploring different dance styles through online platforms like YouTube, becoming more versatile and developing her own unique style. One of her proudest moments came when a dance trend she followed, the One Dance trend by Drake, gained significant attention, bringing recognition from the original creator. For Amisha, seeing others recreate her videos is one of the best feelings, motivating her to keep pushing forward. Uthara Jayan: A journey from reluctance to passion Uthara Jayan, a 23-year-old from Muvattpuzha, Kerala, found her love for dance through a more reluctant start. Encouraged by her mother, Uthara joined classical dance classes at the age of five. I was very lazy and used to skip my classes, she recalls. But my mom would scold me if I didnt go, and she sat with me until the class was over. It wasnt until after her 10th grade that Uthara began to realise the importance of dance in her life. She started to take her practice seriously and felt a deep sense of pride when she was called on stage for school performances. Classical dance became her favourite style, and over time, her commitment to it grew stronger. Uthara also believes that social media has revolutionised the dance world. It has opened doors for many talented dancers who were not recognised before. But at the same time, it has also made room for untrained dancers to gain fame, which I feel can sometimes compromise the art, she explains. She also adds, For me, theres no need to mix dance styles. I believe in staying true to the roots of classical dance. Hashna Sivasothilingam: Bridging cultures through dance Hashna Sivasothilingam, a 21-year-old dancer and choreographer from London, UK, has been dancing since the age of three. Growing up in a Tamil family, she was introduced to Bharathanatyam by her mother and Guru, Ragini Sivasothilingam. For Hashna, dance is much more than just a performance; its a way to express emotions and connect with her culture. Dance is more than just movement its a language without words, says Hashna. It allows me to communicate emotions and stories that words often cant capture. Its been a form of strength during tough times and a celebration in moments of joy. Hashnas journey began with Bharathanatyam, but over time, she was drawn to a wide array of dance styles, including hip-hop and contemporary dance. While her foundation remains rooted in classical dance, she embraces fusion, blending different styles to reflect her evolving identity. She particularly enjoys mixing traditional dance forms with contemporary music, showing that traditions can remain vibrant and adaptable. The fusion of Bharathanatyam with pop, hip-hop, or R&B is a way of showing that our traditions are dynamic, just like we are, she says. Its about embracing where I come from while also celebrating who I am today. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Hash (@hashnasiva) Shiva Soorya: The power of dance in overcoming struggles Shiva Soorya, a 19-year-old dancer from Kerala, describes dance as his way of snapping into reality. When Im performing, I find peace, he shares. Its like how people find comfort in their own space when going through tough times for me, that comfort is dance. Shivas journey into dance began at the age of four, inspired by his elder sister, who has been his role model from the start. Although he enjoys performing various dance forms, fusion holds a special place for him. Fusion is a way to bond different cultures together. Its one of the best ways to connect with people, he says. Shiva also highlights the importance of training. In the age of social media, people are posting videos without understanding the basics of dance. If we want to make a career out of it, we must train smartly. Without proper knowledge, nothing can be achieved. Anubhya Rana: The passion for dance above all Anubhya Rana, 22, from Dehradun, Uttarakhand, decided to pursue dance professionally after graduation. She started her formal training in the 8th grade and has since become deeply immersed in the world of dance. Ive been dancing my whole life, but when I began training seriously, I realised that this is what I want to do with my life, she says. Her biggest inspiration is music. Its not just the songs but the rhythm patterns, the sounds around us. Anything with a beat gets me moving, she shares. While Anubhya has not yet created any trends of her own, she enjoys participating in them and sharing her interpretations on social media. She believes that dance should be respected, not just as entertainment, but as an art form that requires discipline. Training is key, she says. Theres so much competition now, and if we want to stand out, we need to invest time in mastering the basics. This World Dance Day, they remind us that dance isnt just about technique or trends. Its about emotion. Its about culture. And most of all, its about connection to oneself, to tradition, and to others. Because no matter where you come from, when the music plays you just move.

Chardham Yatra 2025: 24x7 High-Tech System And Mobile Teams To Ensure Pilgrim Safety

Chardham Yatra 2025: The Yatra starts on April 30. Dehradun DM Savin Bansal inspected the Rishikesh Transit Camp, stressing passenger convenience and strict service monitoring

CM Pushkar Singh Dhami aims to create 1000 startups for the youth in the upcoming years

Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami participated in the Startup Samvad program under Mukhya Sevak Samvad at Mukhya Sevak Sadan Dehradun on Sunday. During this time, he interacted with people promoting startups from across the state and heard their valuable suggestions. On this occasion, the Chief Minister also released a book titled Unnat Uttarakhand and visited various stalls based on various startups.

Illegal Mazhar In Dehradun Hospital Premises Razed By Bulldozer In Late-Night Action

The demolition at Doon Hospital was carried out after Pankaj Gupta, a resident of Rishikesh, filed a complaint about the mazar on the Chief Ministers Helpline portal in 2024

Sunny Deol starts Dehradun shoot of Border 2

Filmmaker JP Dutta, who directed Border, will serve as a producer on the sequel alongside his daughter Nidhi Dutt

Sunny Deol shoots for Border 2 in Dehradun

Mumbai: Basking in the tremendous success of Jaat, Sunny Deol is back in shoot mode for his next, Border 2. Sunny is filming the highly-anticipated sequel in Dehradun at the moment. The Gadar actor dropped a video on his Insta stories, as he witnessed a captivating sunset amidst the beautiful landscape of Dehradun. Appreciating the 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 .

Dehradun Youth Arrested For Sharing Objectionable Remark On Demolition Of Mazar, Pahalgam Attack

The youth allegedly threatened to demolish a temple in a Facebook post and made an objectionable remark about the Pahalgam terror attack.

'Unauthorised' mazaar razed in Doon hospital

A mazaar, estimated to be at least 50 years old and situated within the Govt Doon Medical College and Hospital in Dehradun, was demolished late Friday night. The demolition was carried out by civic agency teams and district administration officials, supported by a strong police presence.

JK Ministers visit Mumbai, Punjab, Shimla, Dehradun, Lucknow to instil safety of JK natives

Share contact numbers for assistance, meet Governors, CMs of respective states Srinagar, Apr 26:Following the reports of harassment of the J&K natives outside the region, the Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has deployed his cabinet ministers including Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Kumar Choudhary to various cities of the country in order to ensure their safety. The [] The post JK Ministers visit Mumbai, Punjab, Shimla, Dehradun, Lucknow to instil safety of JK natives appeared first on Northlines .

Uttarakhand courts grapple with mounting backlog; HC case pendency soars 24%, data reveals

DEHRADUN: In a contrasting trend, Court case pendency in Uttarakhand has increased by 9% over the past two years, even as some districts managed to halve their backlogs. As of early 2025, a total of 384,234 cases are pending across the state's courts, comprising 316,369 criminal and 67,876 civil cases. The Uttarakhand High Court alone recorded a 24% rise in pending cases during this period. According to data provided by the Uttarakhand High Court to Kashipur-based RTI activist Nadeem Uddin, the court had 44,512 pending cases at the start of 2023. This figure included 25,635 civil and 18,877 criminal cases. By the end of 2024 and the beginning of 2025, the total number of pending cases had risen by 24 per cent to reach 55,323, comprising 30,301 civil and 25,022 criminal cases, Uddin told TNIE . In the state's subordinate courts, pending cases rose by 7% from 308,694 at the start of 2023 to 328,911 by early 2025. Criminal cases continue to dominate the dockets, with 270,822 pending in 2023, rising alongside 37,872 civil cases. District-wise data showed a mixed trend. Four districts saw an increase in pending cases, while nine districts managed to reduce their backlogs. Dehraduns pending cases rose by 5%, from 108,760 to 114,155. Haridwar reported a 21% surge, from 80,623 to 97,299 cases. Nainital district recorded a 2% increase, from 25,802 to 26,398 cases. Pauri district saw the sharpest percentage jump, with pendency rising by 52% from 7,071 to 10,777 cases. Tehri district registered a 9% increase, from 3,170 to 3,467 cases. Conversely, Udham Singh Nagar district recorded a 3% drop in pending cases, from 68,785 to 66,577. Uttarkashi district posted the most significant reduction, cutting its backlog by 50% from 2,711 to 1,364 cases.

Dehradun Family Narrowly Escapes Pahalgam Attack: 'Won't Be Easy To Visit Kashmir Again'

A family from Dehradun was to visit Baisaran meadows at the time when the attack took place, however, their last-moment change in the plan saved their lives.

Uttarakhand bans sale of Army uniform, ramps up security

DEHRADUN: Citing terrorists wearing army fatigues during the Pahalgam attack, Uttarakhand police have imposed a temporary ban on the sale of military uniforms in markets, besides enhancing security measures across the state. Dehraduns Senior Superintendent of Police Ajay Singh said , All station house officers have been directed to identify shops selling army, paramilitary, and other security agency uniforms and ensure that they dont sell these items without proper identification. Atul Anand, who has been running such a shop in Dehradun, said, We have been following these guidelines even before the directive. We dont sell uniforms without verifying the buyers identity. He added that over 50 shops in Dehradun sell police, paramilitary, and army uniforms. Manpreet Chandok, a leading trader in Dehraduns Motibazar, said, Army personnel get special fabric from army canteens, which they can get stitched outside. Chandoks family has been in the business for over four decades. Police sources said shopkeepers would be identified and advised not to sell uniforms without proper ID verification. Police have also taken specific steps to enhance the safety of Kashmiri students residing and studying in Uttarakhand following some provocative some statements. Authorities have significantly bolstered security arrangements along the routes of the upcoming Char Dham Yatra, which is scheduled to commence on April 30.

Uttarakhand's quest for permanent capital hits setback as government lifts 'freeze zone' for Assembly, Secretariat

DEHRADUN: In a blow to Uttarakhands two-decade-long quest for a permanent capital, the state government has decided to lift the freeze zone designation from land earmarked for the Assembly and Secretariat, effectively shelving the 2023 master plan aimed at establishing a fixed seat of governance. Housing Secretary R. Meenakshi Sundaram confirmed the development, stating, A proposal for this will be prepared and brought before the Cabinet. The state has held Assembly sessions alternately in the temporary capital Dehradun and the summer capital Gairsain for 25 years. The freeze zone, intended to block development in areas reserved for key government infrastructure, was imposed in March 2023. A notification was issued by the Town and Country Planning Department, allowing five months to draft a Master Plan. However, more than two years later, the plan has not materialised. A government spokesperson said, Despite the stipulated five-month period, the Master Plan could not be finalised even after two years. The freeze had halted construction and development across a large stretch, from Raipur to Thano Road in the north, the main Haridwar Road in the south, east of the drain to Haridwar Road in the west (excluding the Ordnance Factory boundary), and from Bhopal Pani to Barasi Ground and Kali Mati village boundary in the east. Sources indicated that the Assembly and Secretariat proposal failed due to administrative inertia and practical hurdles. Adding to the delay, the land identified for the Assembly did not get final clearance from the Union Ministry of Environment and Forests. Although in-principle approval had been granted, the state government delayed submitting required details, leading to the approval being revoked. Local pressure also played a role in the government's decision to revoke the freeze. Shantanu, a resident of the affected zone, said, For two years, people in villages like Balawala, Nakraunda, Nathuwawala, Gullarghati, Harrawala, Kuanwala, and Ranjhawala have been unable to carry out construction on their own land, despite owning it. He added that he had appealed directly to the Chief Minister to lift the freeze. Environmental concerns further complicated the project. Environmentalist Dev Raghavendra told TNIE, The state government had previously decided to cut 2,155 trees for the proposed assembly building in Raipurs Bhopalpani area. The building was planned within approximately 60 hectares of reserved forest in Bhopalpani, which could have had a very adverse impact on the environment. The lifting of the freeze zone is now expected to offer relief to affected residents, but it also marks a major retreat from the states longstanding ambition to finalise a permanent capital.

Military uniform checks intensified after Pahalgam terror attack

Following the Pahalgam terror attack, Dehradun's Paltan Bazaar has intensified security checks to prevent the unauthorized sale of military uniforms. Shopkeepers are now required to verify buyers' identities through Aadhaar cards and other official documents, ensuring only authorized personnel acquire military attire.

Pahalgam attack: Crackdown on military uniform sales

Security checks have been intensified in Paltan Bazaar, a well-known market in Dehradun, following concerns about the unauthorised sale of military uniforms on Friday.

Pahalgam attack fallout: Kashmiri students flee Uttarakhand amid alleged threats

DEHRADUN: A terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Anantnag district of Jammu and Kashmir on Wednesday, has triggered a fierce reaction from Hindu organisations here in the capital city of Dehradun, Uttarakhand. The fallout from the attack has reportedly led to the departure of at least 36 students from the state. According to confirmed information, these students fled Uttarakhand by air, rail, and road on Wednesday night and Friday morning, following what are described as threats from Hindu organisations. Local Hindu groups expressed strong condemnation of the Pahalgam attack, with protests and demonstrations reported in various parts of the city. Tensions in Dehradun escalated sharply following a threatening social media post circulated by Lalit Sharma, the leader of the Hindu Raksha Dal in Uttarakhand. The post, widely shared online, specifically targeted Kashmiri students studying in the city. In a stern warning, Sharma cautioned the students in a threatening tone. According to the post, he stated: Leave the city by 10:00 am on Thursday morning, or they will be treated just as they should be. Senior Superintendent of Police Ajay Singh visited institutions, particularly those with many Kashmiri students, instructing management to ensure their safety. SSP Singh also toured hostels and residential areas in Selakui and nearby regions. Kashmiri students assaulted, harassed across India after Pahalgam terror attack Nasir Khuehami, National Convenor of the Jammu and Kashmir Student Association, told TNIE that over 2,000 J&K students study in Dehradun. He stated, According to my information, 36 students have migrated home from the state in the last 24 hours due to these provocative statements from Hindu organisations. Khuehami cited assurances from DGP Deepam Seth that students would receive full security after discussions with college administrations. However, he added, Our students are somewhat scared after the inflammatory statement. Until the government takes concrete steps, we will not have confidence. A spokesperson for a local Hindu organisation, who preferred anonymity, stated, We cannot remain silent when our nation is attacked. The anger felt in Dehradun is a reflection of the outrage across India. While condemning terrorism, the group's activities have allegedly created a climate of fear. Students caught in the middle described a tense atmosphere. One student, who also requested anonymity for safety reasons, told reporters, After the protests started, we began receiving threats. We felt unsafe and had no choice but to leave. Another student, reached by phone after leaving the state, added, It's heartbreaking to leave our studies midway, but our safety comes first. We just packed what we could and left by the first available transport trains, buses, whatever we could find. The incident echoes the large exodus of Kashmiri students from Dehradun after the 2019 Pulwama attack, when their numbers here were around 5,000 but never recovered. 8th Incident: Second Open Threat Call. Hindutva outfit Hindu Raksha Dal has once again openly issued threats to identify and physically assault Kashmiri Muslim students in Uttarakhand starting today allegedly in retaliation for the tragic killing of tourists in Pahalgam. Members pic.twitter.com/9x8V3yy7UD Nasir Khuehami ( ) (@NasirKhuehami) April 24, 2025

Kashmiri students assaulted, harassed across India after Pahalgam terror attack

SRINAGAR: After the terror attack on tourists in Pahalgam , which claimed the lives of 25 tourists and a resident, the J&K Students Association has alleged that Kashmiri students in different parts of the country are being harassed, abused and assaulted. We have been receiving multiple distress calls from Kashmiri students from Dehradun. The students feel threatened and insecure in the aftermath of a video released by Hindu Rakhsha Dal, warning Kashmiri Muslim students to vacate Dehradun by 10 am today, J&K Students Association national convenor Nasir Khuehami said. He stated that the situation is becoming increasingly grim and deeply concerning for Kashmiri students studying outside the region. The association has released a set of helpline numbers to support students in distress. We have received distress calls from Universal Group of Institutions, Derabassi, Chandigarh, where Kashmiri students were brutally attacked inside the hostel premises during the night, Khuehami said. He said Kashmiri students said local individuals and other students forcefully entered the hostel at midnight, targeting Kashmiri students with sharp weapons. Their clothes were torn, and at least one student sustained serious injuries. According to Khuehami, it is the 7th incident of Kashmiri students being at the receiving end after the terror attack on tourists in Baisaran, Pahalgam. He also alleged that a Kashmiri student was brutally thrashed in Amity University, Noida. In another incident, the Hindu Raksha Dal and other elements have issued written threats with to several colleges in Dehradun, demanding the expulsion of Kashmiri Muslim students within a set deadline. Pahalgam terror attack: Centre to brief leaders at all-party meet Many terrified Kashmiri students from BFIT College Suduwala Dehradun, have already fled towards Jolly Grant Airport Dehradun to save their lives, Khuehami said. He alleged that in Himachal Pradesh, Kashmiri students in Arni University, Kathghar (Indora) and Kangra have been harassed, abused, and physically attacked. The Kashmiri students are being intimidated, labelled as terrorists and coerced to vacate their accommodation under threats and violence, Khuehami alleged. We have also received distress calls from Kashmiri students and youth studying and working in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh. Landlords are asking them to vacate immediately, citing security concerns. Some have already left under pressure, he said. Pahalgam attack fallout: India suspends Indus Waters Treaty with Pakistan, shuts Wagah-Attari border National President of J&K Students Association, Ummar Jamal, said the Association has established a dedicated response team to provide prompt assistance and coordinate with local authorities whenever necessary. The militant attack on tourists at Baisaran, Pahalgam, which is also known as mini Switzerland, has caused massive outrage in the Valley, and for the first time in 35 years of militancy in J&K, Kashmir observed a complete shutdown against civilian killings carried out by militants on Wednesday. Concerned over the incidents, Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah said the J&K government is in touch with the governments of the states where these reports are originating from. Im also in touch with my counterpart, Chief Ministers in these states & have requested they take extra care, he said.

Dehradun Diary | Info DG stresses need to use AI responsibly

Amid the rise and rise of artificial intelligence (AI), Uttarakhand Director General of Information Banshidhar Tiwari has stressed the need to preserve humanity. Speaking at a workshop on Responsible Use of Artificial Intelligence: Role of Public Relations organised by the Public Relation Society of Indias Dehradun Chapter on Monday, he emphasised, In todays technical era, all of us need to understand our responsibility. As the AI technology rapidly develops, it becomes our duty to ensure that the spirit of humanity remains paramount. He further stressed the need to use the technology responsibly. Rawat using Congress for family interests: BJP MLA BJP MLA Vinod Chamoli recently pointed an accusatory finger at the Congress, accusing the grand old party of nepotism and dynasty politics. He said the party has been reduced to a political placement agency for the children and relatives of former Uttarakhand Chief Minister Harish Rawat. Claiming that Rawat believes in giving precedence to his family over the welfare of his party. Chamoli said, Rawats yatra is aimed not at strengthening his party but at securing the future of his children. He is not working in the interest of the party. Chamoli also dismissed Rawats recent claim that the Congress has become a victim of lies. Rs 2.6-cr biz for livestock farmers in ITBP contract Farmers and livestock keepers in four border districts of Uttarakhand have earned a whopping `2.6 crore in just five months by supplying meat and fish to the Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP), officials stated on Sunday. The ITBP battalions in Pithoragarh, Chamoli, Uttarkashi, and Champawat were dependent on large cities for the supply of mutton, chicken and fish until October 2024, when the state Animal Husbandry Department facilitated a contract between the ITBP and local livestock farmers. Under the contract signed on October 30 last year, 253 farmers associated with 10 cooperative societies and farmer producer organisations have been engaged. Narendra sethi Our correspondent in Uttarakhand narendrasethi@newindianexpress.com

38th National Games in Uttarakhand: Eight medalists among 11 athletes tested positive for prohibited substances

DEHRADUN: Eleven athletes have tested positive for prohibited substances at the recently concluded 38th National Games held in Uttarakhand. Eight among the eleven athletes are medal winners. The highest number of positive cases, six, are reportedly from Punjab. The National Anti-Doping Agency (NADA) has provisionally suspended11 athletes found to have violated anti-doping rules by consuming banned performance-enhancing drugs. According to a reliable source, Punjab's prominent basketball player Amritpal Singh is among those suspended. Amritpal, a veteran of prestigious leagues in Australia and Japan, is reportedly facing his second doping violation. Amritpal had won a gold medal for Punjab at the 38th National Games, held in Uttarakhand from January 28 to February 14 this year. According to sources within the disciplinary committee, he could face a ban of up to eight years if he fails to prove his innocence. According to reports, Amritpal had previously tested positive for doping in 2020. Meanwhile, samples from Wushu players Neeraj Joshi and Rahul Tomar were reportedly found to contain multiple prohibited substances. Sources further revealed, testing of samples collected by NADA is still underway, and the number of positive cases is feared to rise. The 2023 National Games in Goa saw a record 25 athletes test positive for doping. The 2015 Kerala National Games sparked significant concern with 16 doping cases, while the 2022 Gujarat Games recorded 10 positive tests. Another significant blow is the case involving Tamil Nadu weightlifter Elish Arokiya. Elish, the 87kg national record holder, was considered a strong contender for a gold medal at the upcoming Commonwealth Games, stated to be in Glasgow.

Empty gun game leaves student critical in Dehradun, friend held after police bust fake suicide story

DEHRADUN: A perilous game of death played by two second-year BSc (Agriculture) students from a Dehradun professional college has left one student critically injured after he was shot in the head while handling a pistol believed to be empty. The student remains in serious condition in the hospital. The injured student has been identified as Shashishekhar, originally from Jharkhand, while the friend who fired the shot is Shashiranjan, from Bihar. Both are roommates and students at the same institution. According to police, the incident occurred in the Kotra Santaur area of Premnagar. Following the shooting, a group including Shashiranjan initially attempted to mislead the police, fabricating a story that the shooting was a case of attempted suicide stemming from a failed love affair. They also allegedly tried to hide the weapon. SSP Ajay Singh told by TNIE , However, inconsistencies in the students' statements raised red flags for the police. A thorough probe, including scrutiny of call detail records and CCTV footage, further cast doubt on the initial narrative, prompting a deeper investigation. Initial reports attempted to portray this as a suicide attempt, but discrepancies in statements and technical evidence led us to believe otherwise, stated a police official involved in the investigation. Our sustained questioning eventually broke through the fabricated story. Under intense interrogation, Shashiranjan reportedly confessed to the truth. He revealed that he and Shashishekhar were playing a dangerous game, pointing the pistol at each other and pulling the trigger, convinced the weapon was empty. Shashiranjan admitted during interrogation that during the game, he had cocked the pistol and removed the magazine, not realizing a round was still chambered. When he pulled the trigger, the fatal shot was fired, striking Shashishekhar in the head. Panicked, he hid the pistol and the shell casing before concocting the suicide story with others. However, police investigators checking call records and CCTV found Shashiranjan hadn't left the room. The victim's breakup was also months earlier. The pistol's removed magazine further contradicted the narrative. There were significant discrepancies, a police source stated. Confronted with evidence Friday, Shashiranjan confessed, revealing the true events of Wednesday, abandoning the fabricated suicide plot. Based on a complaint filed by Shashishekhar's family, police have registered a case against Shashiranjan under charges including attempt to murder. He was arrested on Saturday. The condition of Shashishekhar remains critical.

Urvashi Rautela's 'personal temple' claim sparks outrage among Badrinath priests, locals

DEHRADUN: Dehradun Bollywood actress Urvashi Rautela, frequently in the media spotlight for her often eccentric statements and antics, has ignited a fresh controversy. Her recent claim that a temple near the sacred Badrinath Dham is named after her has provoked significant anger among local priests, religious officials, and residents of Badrinath. She made the statement during a podcast with YouTuber Siddharth Kannan. Rautela is no stranger to making headlines with her unusual pronouncements. However, her assertion regarding a temple bearing her name in the vicinity of the revered pilgrimage site has been met with strong disapproval from those associated with the four Dhams. The actress's claim has been vehemently rejected by religious authorities and community members. Bhuvan Chandra Uniyal, a local priest and former Dharmadhikari of Badrinath Dham, labelled Rautela's statement as completely misleading. Urvashi Rautela's statement is absolutely misleading, stated Bhuvan Chandra Uniyal. He further clarified the true identity of the temple in question, saying, The Urvashi temple is deeply connected to Goddess Sati in Hindu mythology and is recognised as one of the 108 Shaktipeeths. Uniyal explained that the temple holds deep significance for the residents of nearby Bamani and Pandukeshwar villages within the Badrinath Dham area, who worship there according to their traditions. The Maa Urvashi temple is located in Bamani village, Chamoli district, approximately one kilometre from Badrinath Dham. It is a popular site, with most pilgrims visiting Badrinath Dham also coming to this temple for 'darshan' (to pay respects). According to ancient beliefs, two legends surround the Maa Urvashi temple near Badrinath. One says celestial dancer Urvashi was born from Lord Vishnu's thigh during his meditation, later worshipped locally. Another links it to a Shakti Peetha. It's believed to be one of the 108 sites where parts of Goddess Sati's body fell, making it a sacred spot established as the Urvashi temple.

Tributes pour in for Scottish-born Indian Author Bill Aitken, who died at 90

DEHRADUN: Bill Aitken, the Scottish-born writer who became an Indian citizen and was celebrated for his profound connection to the country, passed away in Dehradun at the age of 90 on Wednesday. Known for his insightful travel writing, Aitken had suffered a fall at his home in Mussoorie shortly before his death. Born in Scotland in 1934, Aitken arrived in India in 1959 at the age of 25, carrying a deep affection for the culture he had explored through studying comparative religion in the UK. His early years in India included a year of teaching in Calcutta, followed by a significant period from 1960 to 1972 spent living in Himalayan ashrams at Kausani and Mirtola. He described these years as the true beginning of his lifelong immersion in Indian culture and spirituality. This deep bond culminated in 1972 when he made the pivotal decision to become an Indian citizen. A quote often attributed to him reflects this profound identification: Becoming an Indian citizen felt like coming home. With the blessing of his spiritual guru, his life in India continued, eventually leading him to serve as a companion to Maharani Prithwi Bir Kaur of Jind, basing himself in Delhi and the hill station of Mussoorie. A prolific writer, Aitken traveled extensively across India, documenting its diverse landscapes and, particularly, its rich spiritual and religious life in a dozen acclaimed travel books. His distinctive writing style was characterized by a free-wheeling description, interwoven with intimate details of the land and its people, and their religious beliefs. According to his friend of over five decades, renowned fellow author Ganesh Saili, Aitken articulated his deep connection by stating, India wasn't just a place I visited; it was the world I chose to live in, a constant source of wonder and connection. For decades, from the 1970s until his death, Aitken made Mussoorie his permanent home. Beyond his literary contributions, he actively engaged with Indian life, holding positions such as President of the Friends of the National Rail Museum and Hon. Librarian of the Himalayan Club. He also served as a trustee for the Maharani Prithwi Jind Memorial Trust. Affectionately known as 'Bill Saab,' his passing is deeply mourned by the community he lived among for decades. Fellow author Ganesh Saili expressed the sentiment of loss, noting that the Mussoorie writers' community feels diminished and lost without our favourite Scotsman, the honorary Garhwali. Tributes have poured in, with Dr. Tania Saili Bakshi sharing a warm memory of visiting him on his 90th birthday, recalling his unbridled spirit, warmth, and wit. Jai Singh Rawat remembered him as a true lover of the Himalayas and a gifted writer. Bill Aitken's unique journey from Scotland to becoming a beloved figure and a true Indian soul leaves behind a significant legacy, captured in his writings that vividly portray the spirit of the nation he chose as his own. In a heartfelt tribute, Dr. Tania Saili Bakshi tenderly recalled her final visit to the author's side on his 90th birthday, painting a vivid portrait of a man brimming with warmth and wit. Speaking to TNIE , Tania told, William McKay Aitken, or popularly known as Bill Aitken as childhood memories fondly recalled, shone bright with enthusiasm as he welcomed my mother and me. His spirit remained unbridled, his health robust, save for the gentle creaks of time's tender touch.' As the renowned fellow author reminisces, I was fortunate to meet Bill at his home in Oakless on his birthday last year when he turned 90. Full of warmth and good Scottish humour Bill Aitken was thrilled to see us. He was in the best of health and spirits, if you take away the usual twinges in the hinges. Tania recalls, I remember him telling me, I have never been better. At ninety, Bill used to stick to a health routine which took him on a five kilometre walk twice a day plus the usual household chores and gardening, come rain or sunshine. He giggled and said, It helps to keep my Scottish genes in ship shape. While longevity ran in Bills family, he lost one sister last year and his older sister moved into an old age home in London.

Uttarakhand: Student kidnapped, thrashed & video shared on social media by 12 minors

DEHRADUN: In a disturbing incident, a group of around 12 minors on scooters allegedly abducted a minor student heading to tuition. They took the victim to a secluded spot, brutally beat him with belts and sticks, and videotaped the assault. According to police sources, they shared the video online reportedly to boost their social media fan following. Social media has a dark side, and its repercussions are severely impacting the youth, said a police official. Based on a complaint, the police registered a case against the 12 minors and launched a search operation. We are taking this case very seriously and will ensure justice is served, said the investigating officer. According to information received by the police, Munnet Rajput, a resident of Mohalla Sot in Roorkee, filed a complaint stating that his minor son, Riten Chauhan, was heading to tuition on Wednesday evening around 4 pm when around 12 boys on scooters allegedly stopped him in Ramnagar. They forcibly took him to a secluded spot in the Ramnagar industrial area and brutally beat him with belts and sticks. The police were informed that the accused had pre-planned the attack and started video-recording the incident as soon as they began beating Riten. Despite a crowd gathering, the accused continued their brutal assault, even smashing the victims mobile phone. They uploaded the video on a social media platform before fleeing. Police Station House Officer of Gangnahar police station Amarjeet Singh confirmed that a case has been registered against three identified and nine unidentified minors. Were investigating and identifying the attackers using the video footage, he added. Singh said the police are taking the case seriously because of the premeditated nature of the attack and online dissemination. Muslim boy attacked for refusing Ram chant Kanpur: A 13-year-old Muslim boy accused another minor from the same locality of assaulting him for refusing to say Jai Shri Ram under Maharajpur police station area of Kanpur on late Thursday night. The victim claimed he was coerced to bow down and touch the feet of the accused. When the victim resisted, the accused stabbed him in the left leg.

Uttarakhand MPs sanction zero new projects, hundreds stalled from previous term

DEHRADUN: As per a Right to Information (RTI) disclosure, data reveals that none of the five MPs elected in the 18th Lok Sabha in 2024 have sanctioned any work from their allocated MPLADS funds as of December 2024. This highlights a significant lapse in the utilisation of the Member of Parliament Local Area Development Scheme (MPLADS) funds by Uttarakhand's Lok Sabha MPs. Adding to the concern, former MPs from the 17th Lok Sabha tenure have managed to spend only 58 per cent of their allocated funds by the same date, with a striking 795 sanctioned projects yet to even begin. The information was obtained by RTI activist Nadeemuddin from the office of the Rural Development Commissioner, Uttarakhand, the nodal department for MPLADS. Citing the information received, Nadeemuddin confirmed, None of the MPs from the 18th Lok Sabha have sanctioned any work by December 2024. The data for the 17th Lok Sabha shows a total of 5782 works were sanctioned. By December 2024, only 3517 of these were completed, 1470 were ongoing, and 795 had not commenced. Sharing specific constituency details from the previous term of the MPs with TNIE, Nadeemuddin revealed, The former Almora MP, Ajay Tamta, utilised 69% of his funds, with 36 out of 1,763 sanctioned works remaining unstarted. In Haridwar, the situation is also concerning; current MP Trivendra Singh Rawat has sanctioned no work from his available Rs 5 crore allocation. Former Haridwar MP Dr. Ramesh Pokhriyal spent only 50 per cent of his funds, with 195 out of 355 works still in progress. Pauri MP Anil Baluni has also not sanctioned any work from his available Rs 5 crore fund for the current term. His predecessor, former MP Tirath Singh Rawat, saw only 38 per cent of his funds spent, leaving a significant 450 out of 986 sanctioned works unstarted. Tehri MP Rajya Laxmi Shah, re-elected in 2024, has not sanctioned any work from her current Rs 5 crore allocation, while 68 per cent of her previous term's fund was spent, with 307 works from 2397 unstarted. Similarly, Nainital MP Ajay Bhatt, also re-elected, has sanctioned no work from his current Rs 5 crore fund; in his previous term, 64 per cent of his funds were spent, with 2 out of 371 works unstarted.

'Understanding mountain sensitivity through gentle wisdom was crucial for Silkyara success in Uttarakhand'

DEHRADUN: Professor Arnold Dix, President of the International Tunneling and Underground Space Association, has hailed the successful breakthrough of the Silkyara tunnel in Uttarkashi, which was finally achieved on Wednesday, as the two ends finally met. The Silkyara tunnel in Uttarkashi, the site of a partial collapse in November 2023 that trapped 41 workers for 17 days, finally achieved its long-awaited breakthrough on Wednesday as the two ends met. Arnold Dix termed it as a monumental achievement, which after the successful rescue of 41 workers from the Silkyara tunnel (now named Baba Baukhnag Tunnel) attributing its success in part to a gentle and mindful approach that respected the spirit of the mountain. Dix, who played a crucial advisory role during the challenging operation, emphasized that understanding and working 'with' the mountain, rather than forcing it, was paramount. Speaking exclusively to The New Indian Express via telephone from Monbulk Victoria, Australia, Prof Arnold Dix stated, This has been a milestone... We have gotten through. But now we need to be gentle and mindful of the spirit of the mountain. We need to be gentle and mindful of everyone and each other. Professor Arnold Dix further stated, This breakthrough stands as a testament to the great efforts, sweat, and tears of the dedicated professionalstruck drivers, welders, operators, laborers, hand miners, cooks, geologists, and engineerswho together undertook the amazing rescue of 41 young men just over a year ago. Tunnel expert Dix emphasized the collective nature of the achievement, highlighting the diverse skills and unwavering commitment of everyone involved in the operation. Prof Dix's remarks from Australia underscore the international recognition and appreciation for the successful Silkyara tunnel rescue effort, said an official involved in the tunnel's construction. This tunnel construction was a collective effort of all those involved, and its benefits will be seen in the near future, Professor Dix stated. Dix pointed out that the Silkyara rescue effort utilized both advanced technology and a patient, adaptable strategy. However, early attempts at horizontal drilling faced setbacks because of the challenging ground conditions. It was during this difficult phase that the gentle and mindful approach became paramount. The successful final approach involved manual rat-hole mining, a technique requiring immense skill and caution. This method, while seemingly less technologically advanced, embodied the gentle and mindful philosophy, allowing for meticulous progress with minimal disruption to the surrounding environment, said Arnold Dix, adding, he told, Engineers shifted strategies, carefully assessing the mountain's behavior and adapting their methods accordingly. This included exploring multiple drilling directions and prioritizing the safety of both the trapped workers and the rescue teams.

Tourist dies in Rishikesh rafting accident; five others rescued

DEHRADUN: A tourist has died in an accident on the Ganges River in Rishikesh, Uttarakhand, a location renowned for river rafting, after a raft overturned during an excursion. The fatality occurred near the Garud Chatti area within the Muni Ki Reti police station limits in Tehri district. The deceased has been identified as Sagar Negi, a resident of Dehradun. Police teams rushed to the scene upon receiving news of the accident and took custody of the body, which has been sent for post-mortem. Senior Sub-Inspector Yogesh Pandey stated, The incident occurred at Muni Ki Reti during a rafting excursion involving a group of six people. According to information received from SDRF Inspector Kavinder Sajwan, a tourist from Dehradun died after a raft suddenly overturned near Garud Chatti in Tehri district's Muni Ki Reti police station limits. Police have initiated an investigation into the incident and are questioning the raft operator. According to preliminary information, Sagar Negi and his friends arrived at Shivpuri, Rishikesh, for rafting on Wednesday morning. According to the sources, the trip commenced from Shivpuri. However, as the raft approached the Garud Chatti bridge, it suddenly capsized, plunging everyone into the fast-flowing river. The rafting guide acted swiftly to pull the tourists back onto the raft safely one by one. Tragically, during this effort, Sagar Negi became unconscious. He was quickly brought to the riverbank and transported by road to the Rishikesh government hospital, where doctors pronounced him dead.

Army battles snow to clear Hemkund Sahib route ahead of May 25 pilgrimage

DEHRADUN: In a race against time, the Indian Army is battling heavy snowfall to ensure the timely commencement of the revered Hemkund Sahib pilgrimage, scheduled to kick off on May 25. The challenge comes on the heels of the recent Govindghat bridge collapse, which had raised concerns about the pilgrimage's smooth conduct. Shri Hemkund Sahib Trust Chairman Narendra Jeet Singh Bindra revealed to TNIE that an army reconnaissance team has surveyed the trek route from Govindghat to Hemkund Sahib. The Indian Army has conducted a recce of the trek route from Govindghat to Hemkund Sahib for the upcoming Shri Hemkund Sahib Yatra commencing on May 25, Bindra stated. It has been revealed that there is 2 to 7 feet of snow accumulated on a 6 km stretch of the trek route, extending from Ghangharia to Hemkund Sahib, he added. A 25-member advance team of the Indian Army has already reached Govindghat and, after a day of acclimatisation in Ghangharia, has commenced snow-clearing operations. The bridge collapse at Govindghat triggered concerns among devotees worldwide, with many seeking clarity on the pilgrimage's status. A massive snow block on the yatra route has posed a significant challenge as the annual Hemkund Sahib pilgrimage preparations gear up on a war footing. A team from the Hemkund Sahib Gurudwara Management Committee, accompanied by army personnel, recently inspected the pilgrimage route to Ghangharia and discovered a formidable 20-foot-high snowdrift obstructing the 'Aastha Path' at Atlakoti. According to sources at the district headquarters in Chamoli, the massive snow block poses a challenge to the smooth conduct of the yatra, which is expected to attract thousands of devotees. Efforts are underway to clear the snow and ensure the pilgrims' safety, a government spokesperson said. According to Sardar Seva Singh, senior manager of Gurudwara Govindghat, an inspection team comprising Gurudwara staff and three army personnel ventured to assess the condition of the route. A team with army personnel inspected the route and found a 20-foot snow block at Atlakoti, Singh confirmed. The team returned to Govindghat on Wednesday after completing their assessment. Providing further details on the challenging conditions, Bindra stated, The Atal Koti Glacier is completely snow-laden with accumulated snow depth of up to 30 feet, while the smaller Atal Koti Glacier has 10 feet of snow. He lauded the Indian Army's efforts, adding, This service is being rendered by the Indian Army, who take pride in undertaking this task. Trust volunteers and cooks will also accompany the team to oversee other essential arrangements. As many as 29,315 pilgrims have registered for the Hemkund Sahib yatra till Friday this year, said Yogendra Gangwar, Nodal Officer, Uttarakhand Tourism Department's Char Dham Yatra Division. Usually, around 2 lakh Sikh devotees visit Uttarakhand every year to pay obeisance at Hemkund Sahib, Gangwar added.

Over 94,000 applications received as UCC rollout gains momentum in Uttarakhand

DEHRADUN: The implementation of the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) in Uttarakhand is progressing rapidly, with authorities reporting a significant influx of applications on the dedicated online portal. A high-level meeting, chaired by Home Secretary Shailesh Bagoli, was held on Wednesday at the Secretariat to review the marriage registration process and other services under the UCC. District Magistrates from across the state participated via video conference to provide updates on registration status within their districts. We are encouraged by the initial response to the UCC portal, stated an official present at the meeting. The data presented revealed that nearly 94,000 applications have been received to date. The data further indicated a high rate of application processing, with approximately 89 per cent of applications approved, around 5 per cent rejected, and the remainder currently under process. The average daily application intake across the state is reported to be 174 per district, said Secretary Bagouli. UCC aims to enhance marital stability, not surveillance: Uttarakhand responds to pleas raising privacy concerns Expressing satisfaction with the progress, Secretary Bagouli directed District Magistrates to intensify public awareness campaigns regarding UCC-related services, with a particular emphasis on marriage registration. He stressed that 100 per cent marriage registration of government employees should be treated as the top priority, adding that necessary orders in this regard have already been issued by the government. While reviewing the disposal of applications, Secretary Bagouli raised concerns regarding the high rejection rate in certain districts. He instructed District Magistrates to conduct a thorough review of the reasons for application rejections and ensure due diligence in the process. Notably, districts Rudraprayag (29 per cent), Uttarkashi (23 per cent), and Chamoli (21 per cent) have demonstrated commendable progress in registering marriages solemnised after 2010. In a move aimed at simplifying the process, we have removed the mandatory Video KYC requirement for the approval of previously registered marriages, said Secretary Bagouli. Furthermore, efforts are underway to make UCC certificates accessible through DigiLocker, enhancing convenience and accessibility for citizens, he added. Highlighting the expanding reach of UCC services, the meeting noted significant progress in covering Gram Panchayats across the state. The number of Gram Panchayats yet to register any applications has drastically reduced from 4,141 to a mere 382 in the past month. Secretary Bagouli has instructed officials to launch focused campaigns to ensure complete coverage and awareness in these remaining panchayats. A detailed breakdown shows: Marriage Registration: 73,093 Approval of Registered Marriages: 19,956 Will/Succession: 430 Divorce/Nullity of Marriage: 136 Live-in Relationships: 46 Intestate Succession: 4

Dehradun Video Editor Falls Victim To Job Scam, Shares How Fake Clients Operate. See Post

A video editor from Dehradun recently took to LinkedIn to share a cautionary tale after falling victim to a job scam.

Uttarakhand government shuts down over 173 madrasas; 'historical move,' says CM Pushkar Singh Dhami

DEHRADUN: At least 173 madrasas across the state has been sealed by the Uttarakhand government, citing lack of registration with the Madrasa Board or the education department as the primary reason. Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami stated that the move is a historic step aimed at curbing institutions that allegedly promote radicalism under the guise of education. The action has allegedly targeted unregistered madrasas lacking permission from the Uttarakhand Madrasa Education Council, with a significant concentration found in the border districts. Most of these allegedly unauthorised institutions were found in the districts of Dehradun, Haridwar, and Udham Singh Nagar. According to authorities, many of these madrasas operated without proper registration or building permits. Furthermore, authorities claimed that some sealed madrasas were under scrutiny for suspicious activities. Udham Singh Nagar district recorded the highest number of closures, with 67 illegal madrasas sealed. Haridwar followed with 44 closures, while Dehradun also saw action against 44 institutions. Smaller numbers were sealed in Nainital -19, Pauri 2, and one in Almora. Mufti Shamoon Qasmi, chairman of the Uttarakhand Madrasa Board, confirmed the ongoing operation and its rationale. Speaking to the New Indian Express, he stated, On Sunday, 13 illegal madrasas were sealed in Banbhulpura, Haldwani. Besides these, campaigns against illegal madrasas were also conducted in Dehradun, Haridwar and Udham Singh Nagar. Qasmi emphasised the critical reasons behind the crackdown, explaining, The illegal madrasas that were acted against had neither obtained building construction permission, nor had they fulfilled educational recognition or safety standards. Uttarakhand Madarsa Board Chairman Mufti Shamoon Qasmi told TNIE , 'Our goal is to improve madarsas and provide quality education to students, aiming to make them cultured and well-rounded individuals.' He emphasized modernizing madarsa education, introducing the NCERT syllabus, and promoting interfaith understanding, aligning with the government's vision of inclusive development.

Bride Protests Land Grab on Wedding Day in Baghpat

Woman halts wedding to join family protest against alleged forced acquisition of farmland for Delhi-Dehradun Corridor

Silkyara Tunnel set for breakthrough on April 16

DEHRADUN: The Silkyara Tunnel on the Yamunotri Highway, a crucial part of the Char Dham Yatra route, is set for a breakthrough on April 16. According to officials privy to the matter, only three metres of the tunnel are left to be cleared. Preparations are under way for a ceremony to commemorate this milestone. Both CM Pushkar Singh Dhami and Union Minister of State for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari are slated to attend the event, said an official. The executing agency has, however, clarified that significant work needs to be done before the Yamunotri Highway tunnel is open to traffic. According to the agency, even after the tunnel becomes passable, another year will be dedicated to installing the necessary modern infrastructure. Following the breakthrough, it will take approximately one year to equip the tunnel with modern facilities, such as benching, inverts, final lining, and a central wall, along with soil removal, a spokesperson for the executing agency stated, adding, Only after this extensive work will the tunnel be opened for traffic flow. This timeline indicates that while the breakthrough on April 16 marks a crucial step, commuters and pilgrims using the Char Dham route will need to wait longer before experiencing the full benefits of the tunnelised section of the highway. The Silkyara-Polgaon tunnel, approximately 4.5 km in length, was launched in 201819 with a budget of `853.79 crore. It may be recalled that a harrowing cave-in had trapped 41 construction workers for 17 days in November 2023. The construction work was resumed after two months in January 2024. The project is a part of the Narendra Modi governments Char Dham road project aimed at improving connectivity to pilgrimage sites in Uttarakhand. Seventeen months after the Silkyara Tunnel collapse, last Monday, Col Deepak Patil, former General Manager (Project) at NHIDCL, emphasised the importance of tunnels in disaster-prone regions. Addressing officials at the R S Tolia Uttarakhand Academy of Administrations Disaster Management cell in Nainital virtually, Col Patil noted, Tunnels can serve as a lifeline in disaster-prone regions, providing a safe and reliable means of transportation. He also warned about the potential dangers of constructing multi-storey buildings in such areas. In his 150-minute virtual address, Col Patil reiterated that tunnels are vital in Himalayan infrastructure. He urged that tunnels should get priority in road projects to minimise environmental damage. He further cautioned against river-path routes.

Demolition notice to slumdwellers against natural justice: Uttarakhand HC

Nainital: Uttarakhand High Court has stayed the razing of homes of slumdwellers in the Vikas Nagar area of Dehradun, saying the demolition notices contravened the principles of natural justice. Hearing a PIL on Saturday because of the urgency of the matter, a division bench of Chief Justice G Narendar and Justice Ashish Naithani said the 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 .

Five killed as SUV Thar falls into Alaknanda river in Uttrakhand

DEHRADUN: A Thar SUV en route from Faridabad to Gochar veered out of control, plummeted into a deep gorge and landed in the Alaknanda River. The incident occurred near Mulyagaon in the Devprayag area of Uttarakhand on April 12 morning, claiming the lives of five individuals. Initial reports suggest the driver lost control of the vehicle while attempting to navigate a bend in the road. Upon receiving information from local villagers, a swift response was initiated by the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF). A rescue team, led by Inspector Manjari Negi of SDRF, was immediately dispatched to the accident site. They commenced a search and rescue operation, utilizing rafts to access the precarious location and locate the occupants. Despite their efforts, the accident proved fatal for most. Speaking to TNIE, SDRF inspector Kavindra Sajwan said, The incident occurred near Devprayag, a significant pilgrimage site, on National Highway 58. According to initial reports, the Thar vehicle veered out of control and plummeted approximately 300 meters into the gorge, landing in the Alaknanda River. Upon reaching the scene, our team acted swiftly, using ropes and a crane to pull the vehicle from the deep gorge to the riverbank, stated SDRF Inspector Kavindra Sajwan while speaking to TNIE. With the help of rescue equipment, we cut open the vehicle and recovered the five bodies. The bodies were then extricated from the gorge using stretchers and handed over to the district police. The deceased have been identified as Sunil Gusain, Resident of Faridabad; Meenu (Wife of Sunil), Resident of Faridabad; Sujal (Son of Sunil), Resident of Faridabad; Nukku (Son of Sunil), Resident of Faridabad; and Aditya (Son of Madan), Resident of Faridabad.

Doon Defence Academy inaugurates Trishakti

Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Apr 11: In a significant step towards holistic preparation for defence entrance exams like NDA and CDS, Doon Defence Academy (DDA) inaugurated its new campus Trishakti located on Sahastradhara Road, Dehradun. The state-of-the-art campus, dedicated to cadets of the Foundation Course, was officially inaugurated with a traditional worship ceremony, and boasts modern and advanced sports infrastructure to complement academic training. DDA Director Sandeep Gupta formally dedicated the campus to the cadets, underlining the Institutions commitment to providing [] The post Doon Defence Academy inaugurates Trishakti appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Uttarakhand STF seizes 434 kg of marijuana in states biggest drug bust

DEHRADUN: In a groundbreaking operation, the Uttarakhand Police and Special Task Force (STF) have seized 434 kilograms of marijuana in Pulbhatta, Udham Singh Nagar district, marking the largest haul in the state's history. The contraband was cleverly concealed in a modified cabin within a container, which had been used for smuggling across multiple states. According to police sources, the container driver had been smuggling marijuana for an extended period, evading authorities by crossing borders of Chhattisgarh, Bihar, and Uttar Pradesh. When stopped for inspection at Pulbhatta police station, the driver claimed the container was empty, having come from Chhattisgarh. However, suspicions arose, prompting a thorough search that led to the discovery. According to police sources, driver Raju from Lakhimpur Kheri was transporting contraband from Jharkhand to Bajpur in Udham Singh Nagar district on Suresh Gupta's instructions. Speaking to TNIE, Manikant Mishra, Senior Superintendent of Police, Udham Singh Nagar, said, The seized ganja is valued at over Rs 1 crore in the international market. The accused is being interrogated, and his criminal history is being probed. The police are now working to apprehend Suresh Gupta, the mastermind behind the operation, added SSP Mishra. This recent bust mirrors a similar incident in Jorabat, where 2,500 kg of ganja worth Rs 15 crore was seized, underscoring ongoing efforts to combat drug trafficking. The driver, during interrogation, revealed that he had modified the container's roof and rear cabin to conceal the contraband. The accused has previously used this method to smuggle narcotics. He would transport empty containers to evade police checks at Chhattisgarh, Bihar, and UP borders. The police would often overlook empty containers, allowing him to pass through undetected, said SSP Manikant Mishra. The seized ganja was reportedly meant for distribution in areas like Bajpur, Rudrapur, and Gadarpur.

A Day In The Life Of Leopards: In A First, Camera Collar To Capture Rare Footage Of Big Cats In Maharashtra

A team led by Dehradun-based WII's scientist Bilal Habib, installed a collar camera on a leopard some time back. Speaking with News18, Bilal said the video footage will provide a glimpse into the world of leopards, active in the sugarcane belt of Junnar region of Maharashtra.

One dead as rain fury unleashes havoc in Uttarakhand

DEHRADUN: Relentless rainfall has wreaked havoc across the hilly districts of Uttarakhand for the past two days, triggering landslides, flash floods and disrupting normal life. Chamoli district bore the brunt as reports emerged of a cloudburst near Nandprayag, while a tragic lightning strike claimed the life of a man in Udham Singh Nagar. Our team is on the ground and assessing the situation near Nandprayag following reports of a cloudburst, Chamoli Police stated in a post on X. While initial reports are still coming in, police confirmed that there have been no immediate reports of casualties from the cloudburst. In a heart-wrenching incident in the Nanakmatta area of Udham Singh Nagar district, a 40-year-old man was killed by a lightning strike. Arjun Singh, a resident of Kaundakheda village, had gone missing on Thursday morning after leaving his home. His charred body was discovered near a water tank in Sunkhari Kalan village on Thursday evening after concerned family members initiated a search when he failed to return home by afternoon. His burnt body was found near the water tank around 5 PM by villagers who were assisting in the search, a local resident reported. The persistent heavy rainfall has caused significant damage across Uttarakhand's mountainous terrain. District Disaster Management Officer of Chamoli, Nandkishore Joshi, detailed the extent of damage in the Tharali area. Tharali has also suffered considerable damage due to the heavy rains. The mountain stream near Ramlila Maidan overflowed, bringing down a large volume of debris from the hillside. Joshi further added, Two vehicles were buried under the debris, and the National Highway was blocked. However, teams from the Border Roads Organisation (BRO) have successfully cleared the highway and it is now open. Rudraprayag district was also severely impacted by the downpour on Thursday. The Kedarnath Valley witnessed a surge in water levels of seasonal rivers and streams, causing widespread damage. The crucial Kedarnath Highway has also been closed due to landslides and overflowing rivers, further exacerbating the situation for pilgrims and local residents alike. Authorities are on high alert and disaster management teams are working to assess the full extent of the damage and provide necessary assistance to affected areas.

Unregulated Pilgrim Influx During Char Dham Yatra Dangerous, Warns NGO

Dehradun, Apr 10: A local NGO on Thursday emphasised the need to regulate the number of pilgrims visiting the Char Dham temples daily, warning that uncontrolled influx of devotees could be dangerous. Citing media reports about the Uttarakhand governments decision not to impose any limits on the number of pilgrims visiting the Himalayan temples, Social Development for Communities (SDC) Foundation founder Anoop Nautiyal said it posed a serious risk. Nautiyal said, This effectively means that every registered pilgrim would be [] The post Unregulated Pilgrim Influx During Char Dham Yatra Dangerous, Warns NGO appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Ignored for entitlements, martyred IAF officers parents seek change in Govt policy

DEHRADUN, Apr 10: Aggrieved parents of Squadron Leader Abhimanyu Rai who died in a trainer jet crash feel they were ignored for entitlements and honours that went to their daughter-in-law, demanding a change in government policy. A pilot in the IAF, 33-year-old Squadron Leader Rai died in a plane crash on December 4, 2023 near the Air Force Academy in Hyderabad while training a foreign cadet. He was flying a Pilatus PC-7 Mark-II aircraft, a trainer jet, with a [] The post Ignored for entitlements, martyred IAF officers parents seek change in Govt policy appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Craving for chicken landed fake cardiologist N John Camm in MP police's custody

BHOPAL : Craving for mouth-watering chicken delicacies landed fake cardiologist N John Camm aka Narendra Yadav in Madhya Pradesh police's custody, it has emerged. Tracking his cell-phone location, cops from Damoh district reached Prayagraj district of Uttar Pradesh on Monday, when they found Yadav's phone was switched off. Unable to track his location subsequently, the Damoh district police team contacted their cyber cell team back in MP, who while tracking Yadav's call details, zeroed in on one phone number to which multiple calls had been made by the fake cardiologist on Monday. The cops on the ground in Prayagraj found that the concerned phone number pertained to a popular non-vegetarian restaurant. Reaching there, the restaurant staff admitted that the caller (Yadav) had been calling them repeatedly seeking delivery of multiple chicken delicacies at his home, which they refused to make due to staff and distance constraints. Based on the address given by the restaurant staff, the police located Yadav's rented flat in a premier township and nabbed him from there on Monday afternoon. Yadavs ongoing questioning and revelations Currently in police remand in MP's Damoh district, Yadav (being probed over allegations of the deaths of seven patients after minimally invasive surgical procedures) has revealed that he changed his name from Narendra Yadav to N John Camm, owing to a five-year-old ban imposed on him by authorities in India during 2015. He was banned from any kind of medical practice by authorities in 2015, following a case against him in Noida (UP) for forging documents related to medical qualifications and experience. Owing to it only, he changed his name from Narendra Yadav to N John Camm (which resembled the name of famous British clinical cardiologist John Camm) and started working again, a senior Damoh police official told The New Indian Express . Yadav's grilling has also revealed that he doesn't hail from Dehradun (Uttarakhand), but is instead a native of Kanpur (UP) and lived in a rented flat in Prayagraj district. He completed his MBBS from North Bengal Medical College in Siliguri in 1996, but couldn't crack the MD exam, despite repeated attempts. Later, he did his MRCP and other courses from the UK and worked there for some years. He has also worked in Germany and the US and keeps on visiting Nuremberg. Further, he has also worked in hospitals in other parts of India, including Hyderabad, Delhi and Bilaspur (Chhattisgarh) and worked in the Mission Hospital in Damoh between December 2024 and February 2025 on the basis of the fake MD and DM (Cardiology) degrees for which he was booked by the Damoh Kotwali police on Sunday midnight. As far as the seven deaths, which allegedly happened after angiography and angioplasty procedures at the Mission Hospital in Damoh (MP), at least three deaths are directly related to minimally invasive surgical procedures performed by Yadav. A team of cardiologists at the Jabalpur Medical College are in the final stages of their probe into the deaths, sources said. According to the Damoh district police superintendent Shrutkirti Somvanshi, It's still early days into Yadav's grilling and more disclosures are likely in the coming days. We'll request the central government's help in verifying the disclosures of Yadav's visits and working experience of UK, US and Germany, particularly as he has travelled multiple times to Nuremberg in Germany.

Dehradun Diary | Name game on in hill state of Uttarakhand

Renaming is the order of the day in Uttarakhand. Two key roads in Haldwani Nawabi Road and Panachakki to ITI Road have been rechristened as the Atal Marg and Guru Golwalkar Marg, confirmed an order by the Urban Development Department. This decision follows CM Pushkar Singh Dhamis broader initiative to rename 15 locations across four districts. The name changes were based on proposals from the Haldwani Mayor and cleared by the Public Works Department, an official stated. Meanwhile, the decision to rebrand Miyawala in Dehradun to Ramjiwala is being reconsidered amid public concerns, Dhami has clarified. Crisis of buses looms large in Uttarakhand The Uttarakhand State Transport Corporation (UTC) is staring at a crisis as its tender for 100 new buses has failed to receive a response from the companies, officials privy to the matter have revealed. This setback will further strain the already stretched fleet, especially since Delhi only allows BS-VI compliant buses to operate. The fleet has dwindled from 950 to 835, and a significant 480 more buses are slated to be scrapped by 202526. No company participated in the first tender, stated UTC Managing Director Reena Joshi. While a fresh tender will be issued, the delivery is anticipated only by the end of this year or even early next year. High stress level among MBBS students: Study MBBS students at the Government Doon Medical College are grappling with alarming levels of stress, a new study has found. Research by Dr Supriya Singh, a PG doctor in physiology, revealed that a staggering 87.3% of first-year students across two batches are suffering from stress. This is a worrying trend, stated Dr Supriya, whose research also highlighted that 38.1% of students are overweight or obese. The study attributes this to factors like poor diet, lack of exercise, study pressure, sleep deprivation and future anxieties. Interestingly, the research indicated the trend is slightly more pronounced among female students. Narendra sethi Our correspondent in Uttarakhand narendrasethi@newindianexpress.com

Delhi-Dehradun Expressway Update: Project nearly complete, but THIS thing in Ghaziabad delays opening; check details

NHAI says it can finish the project by June this year, but only if the hurdle is cleared.

P4 scheme will eradicate poverty in Andhra Pradesh, says Minister

Addressing the fellow ministers from other States at Chintan Shivir conference in Dehradun, Dola Sree Bala Veeranjaneya Swamy elaborates steps taken by the State government to uplift the poor, both economically and socially

Crackdown on Madrasas: 84 Islamic Schools Shut in Uttarakhand

Muslim Community Condemns Targeted Action Dehradun: The BJP-led Uttarakhand government has shut down 84 madrasas, triggering protests and accusations of discrimination. The closures primarily affected Muslim-majority districts 43 in Dehradun, 9 in Udham Singh Nagar, and 31 in Haridwar and Nainital. Governments Justification & Community Backlash Officials claim the move ensures legal compliance, but critics [] The post Crackdown on Madrasas: 84 Islamic Schools Shut in Uttarakhand first appeared on .

Delhi-Dehradun Expressway: How a 1,600 sqm plot in Ghaziabad is delaying the opening of 200-km highway project

A family's refusal to give up their land is causing delays in the Delhi-Dehradun Expressway project. Veersen Saroha's house stands in the way of the project. The family has been in litigation with the government for years. The Supreme Court is now involved. The expressway aims to reduce travel time between Delhi and Baghpat.

Fake doctor accused of killing seven cardiac patients in MP arrested in Prayagraj

BHOPAL: Fake cardiologist N John Camm , whose role is being probed in connection with the deaths of at least seven cardiac patients at Mission Hospital in Madhya Pradeshs Damoh district, has been arrested from the Prayagraj district of Uttar Pradesh. Acting on specific inputs, Camm (whose actual name is believed to be Narendra Vikramaditya Yadav) was arrested from a flat of a premium township in Prayagraj on Monday afternoon, more than 12 hours after a FIR was lodged against him in MPs Damoh district at Sunday midnight. He is being brought from Prayagraj and will be in Damoh by late night, Damoh district police superintendent Shrutkirti Somvanshi told TNIE. Earlier on Sunday midnight, a case was registered against Camm and others on the complaint by Damoh districts chief medical and health officer Dr MK Jain, u/s 318(4), 338, 336(3), 340(2) and 3(5) BNS (which deal with cheating, forgery of documents and joint criminal liability for crime committed with a common intent). Section 25 of MP Ayarvaidic Adhiniyam was also included in the FIR against the fake cardiologist, who is believed to be named Narendra Vikramaditya Yadav. The case was registered based on findings of a probe conducted in the matter by a panel of government doctors headed by the CMHO. The panel was constituted in the matter by the Damoh district collector Sudhir Kochar, following allegations by local advocate Deepak Tiwari about seven deaths having happened following surgical procedures performed by Camm at the Missionary Hospital in Damoh. The panel during its probe has concluded that the documents (related to his medical qualifications/expertise) are suspected/fake. The panel has also concluded that deaths of some patients happened due to angiography/angioplasty conducted by Camm. Further specialized probe into the seven deaths of patients which allegedly happened following the minimally invasive surgical procedures by Camm, has been referred to cardiologists at the government medical college in Jabalpur. Importantly, the Damoh Kotwali police registered a case against the fake doctor on Sunday midnight, just a few hours after a National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) team also began investigations into the matter on Monday. Three families, all from Damoh district (who lost their loved ones due to the surgical procedures by the fake doctor) have recorded their statements before the NHRC team on Monday. It's hard to comprehend why the FIR was registered on the CMHOs complaint just a few hours before the NHRC began its probe, is it face-saving? Also, why does the FIR only name the fake doctor among the accused, what about the hospital management not being named in the concerned FIR? The hospitals owner Ajay Lal is already accused in multiple cases, including those pertaining to religious conversion, questioned Deepak Tiwari. What is the issue? According to Tiwari, local advocate and president of the District Child Welfare Committee, they received a complaint from a patient in February, who doubted the credential of N John Camm, as he (Camm) was unable to conduct proper diagnosis. A subsequent probe by Tiwaris team revealed that at least seven fatalities had happened due to the surgical procedures performed by Camm, following which the entire issue was brought to the notice of the Damoh district administration, ensued by the start of a probe by a panel of government doctors headed by the CMHO. According to sources associated with the ongoing investigations, N John Camm (whose real name is believed to be Narendra Vikramaditya Yadav) carried out 15 non-invasive surgical cardiac procedures between January 1, 2025 and February 12, 2025, but he became untraceable after the entire issue of surgical procedures having caused seven deaths came to the fore in February. While total seven deaths have happened, possibly three to four actually happened after the angiography/angioplasty performed by N John Camm, a key source forming part of the ongoing probe claimed. But its not just the seven deaths which are the cause of concern, its also the fake/suspected documents submitted by N John Camm at the Mission Hospital for proving his medical expertise, which are particularly under the scanner. In the documents he claims to have passed MBBS from the University of North Bengals medical college, but enquiry into the registration number mentioned in the document, has turned out to be actually allotted to a doctor in Varanasi (UP). Also, the documents pertaining to MD and DM (Cardiology) from medical colleges of southern India seem suspected. Also, the Andhra Medical Council license number rendered to the hospital by Camm in Damoh, actually doesnt exist, which clearly suggests that he is not just a fake cardiologist, but also a fake doctor, a police officer forming part of the probe said. Whos N John Camm? Though he is named in official documents, including the Aadhar as N John Camm, primary investigations suggest his real name could be Narendra Vikramaditya Yadav, a native of Uttarakhand capital Dehradun. He possibly attained the identity of N John Camm, to strike close resemblance with Prof John Camm, the professor emeritus of clinical cardiology at St Georges University of London. The famous British cardiologist reportedly had confirmed to a fact-checking website that his identity was being misused by Yadav. The fake doctor reportedly operated a website under the name njohncamm.com and also rang a twitter account under the handle @njohncamm, which is suspended now. Yadavs claim about having worked in the past with the British cardiologist Dr John Camm, too have been found to be false. In July 2023, Yadav using the same twitter account, had posted that UP CM Yogi Adityanath could control the riots in France within 24 hours. The concerned tweet was shared by many news channels, but some were later deleted following questions about the accounts authenticity. He had also reportedly posted purportedly photoshopped pictures with UP CM Yogi Adityanath and Bihar CM Nitish Kumar under a fake name in the past. More cases against him in other states? While the FIR against the fake doctor was registered in MPs Damoh district on Sunday midnight, there could be more criminal cases in which he is accused in other parts of the country. Were enquiring about the possibility of multiple cases against him elsewhere, including Noida and Ghaziabad in UP, one police station in Telangana district and also possibility of a case registered against him in Bilaspur (Chhattisgarh), the Damoh district police superintendent Shrutkirti Somvanshi said.

Welfare of transgenders, disabled persons discussed at Chintan Shivir in Dehradun

A.P. Social Welfare Minister Dola Sree Bala Veeranjaneya Swamy attends the two-day national conference aimed at creating awareness on various Central government schemes

IPL 2025: Rishabh Pant explains how Nehra's simple advice helped him during recovery

Pant met with the accident on the Delhi-Dehradun highway on the night of December 30, 2022.

After Myanmar horror, Japan warns of megaquake that could kill over 3 lakh, experts say India faces even greater risk

Japan has warned about a potential megaquake along the Nankai Trough. Experts say a similar or even more severe earthquake is overdue in the Himalayan region. The potential earthquake in the Himalayas could impact cities like Chandigarh, Dehradun, and Delhi. India needs to prepare for such disasters to mitigate potential damage.

544 accident-prone spots identified for Char Dham Yatra in Uttarakhand

DEHRADUN: With the Char Dham Yatra set to begin later this month, the authorities concerned in Uttarakhand have identified 544 accident-prone spots along the routes of pilgrimage across four districts. In view of this, the transport headquarters has issued a letter to the National Highways Authority of India, Border Roads Organisation and the Public Works Department, urging immediate action in these areas and requesting a report on the measures taken. In a bid to enhance safety and ensure a smooth pilgrimage experience for the Yatra, government sources reveal, road safety committees in Dehradun, Haridwar, Uttarkashi, Tehri, Pauri, Rudraprayag and Chamoli districts have been directed to conduct surveys. According to these committees, a total of 544 accident-prone areas have been identified that require immediate attention. The report highlights that there are 38 such areas in Haridwar, 65 in Chamoli, 297 in Tehri and 144 in Dehraduns Vikas Nagar and Rishikesh regions. Sources indicate that the safety measures recommended for these routes include traffic calming interventions, rumble strips, informational signage, pothole repairs, chevron boards, crash barriers, road markings, reflectors, the removal of debris along the roads and addressing unauthorised median openings & blind curves. In a notable first, this years Char Dham travel routes have been divided into 15 super zones, 41 zones, and 137 sectors. Speaking to this daily, Dehradun Traffic SP Lokjeet Singh stated, Each sector will cover an area of 10 kilometres. Police personnel will be on patrol 24 hours a day, ensuring safety and order. He added, Over six thousand police officers and staff will be deployed to manage security and traffic throughout the pilgrimage route. Notably, registrations for the Yatra have now surpassed an impressive 12.5 lakh. Yogendra Gangwar, the nodal officer from the Uttarakhand Tourism Department overseeing Char Dham yatra registrations, told TNIE, We have recorded 3,674 registrations for Kedarnath, 3,045 for Badrinath, 1,918 for Yamunotri and 2,105 for Gangotri from foreign visitors. The online registration process, which requires Aadhaar verification, began on March 20.

Uttarakhand sports dept recycles plastic bottles into benches to promote sustainability

DEHRADUN: In a groundbreaking move that transcends the mere pursuit of medals, the Sports Department of Uttarakhand has launched an inspiring initiative aimed at social change through sports. During and prior to the 38th National Games, eco-friendly benches have been crafted from recycled plastic bottles, now proudly installed at the Maharana Pratap Sports College in Dehradun. Speaking exclusively to TNIE , Uttarakhand's Sports Minister Rekha Arya highlighted the state government's commitment to hosting the National Games under the theme of 'Green Games.' The state government announced the organization of the National Games with a focus on sustainability, and several innovative initiatives have been launched in this direction. This is one such initiative, Arya stated. Minister Rekha explained that empty water bottles used by athletes and attendees at all event venues were collected and recycled to create benches. Currently, 10 benches have been prepared and delivered to Maharana Pratap Sports College. These benches have been installed for student use, and soon, 20 more benches will be ready, Arya added. She emphasized that through this initiative, Uttarakhand has set a benchmark for environmental protection through sports. On this occasion, student-athletes from the sports college also pledged to creatively and sustainably utilize sports waste generated during training and competitions. Sports Minister Rekha Arya stated, Under this initiative, a total of 900,000 plastic bottles were collected600,000 before the games and 300,000 during the event. Out of these, 100,000 bottles were separated at 11 locations, and a company transformed them into benches through recycling. Notably, the National Games took place from January 28 to February 14 this year, featuring participation of 9,545 athletes from across the country. Speaking to TNIE , Director of Sports Prashant Arya shared insights about a comprehensive awareness campaign conducted prior to the National Games. We launched information campaigns before the National Games, including short films on plastic pollution and sustainable use of sports waste, which were screened at all venues. Posters were also placed to raise awareness. He further added that students from Maharana Pratap Sports College had taken part in these awareness campaigns. Students actively participated in workshops, clean-up drives, and waste collection activities. This project is not just about recycling, but about changing mindsets around sports and sustainability, Arya stated. With this eco-friendly initiative, the Uttarakhand Sports Department has not only contributed to environmental conservation but also sent a strong message about the power of sports in driving social change.

CM Dhami appoints 38 leaders to councils, committees to boost BJP unity in Uttarakhand

DEHRADUN: In a strategic move aimed at strengthening party unity and silencing talks of a possible cabinet expansion, Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami has appointed 38 party leaders to various councils, commissions, and committees. These appointments, made over the past four days, have granted some leaders the status of state ministers. According to an official communiqu released late Friday night, a second list of 'Dayitwadharis' (portfolio holders) was announced, in which 18 leaders were given new responsibilities. Earlier, on Tuesday, 20 other leaders were assigned key roles in different departments and panels. By putting the cabinet reshuffle rumours temporarily to rest, Dhami has made the long-awaited appointments to important committees and councils. Some of the appointed leaders have been given ministerial rank, which further underlines the significance of this political step. The move is seen as part of a broader plan to strengthen the BJPs hold in the state ahead of future political challenges. Significantly, the number of vacant ministerial positions in the Dhami cabinet has now risen to five, following the recent resignation of Parliamentary Affairs Minister Premchand Agarwal. The internal atmosphere in the party has also become tense, particularly after a controversial remark made by former Chief Minister Trivendra Singh Rawat, which has reportedly caused friction between him and the IAS lobby. Sensing the Congress partys attempt to take advantage of the situation, Chief Minister Dhami acted quickly and released the first list of appointments on Tuesday. The list included 20 leaders who were entrusted with various positions across government-related bodies. By Friday evening, the Chief Minister announced a second list, naming 18 more leaders to different departments and institutions. Speaking to TNIE , Director General of Information Banshidhar Tiwari shared the details of the recent appointments. The newly appointed vice-chairs include Balveer Ghuniyaal for the Herbal Advisory Committee, Surendra Mogha for the Uttarakhand Animal Welfare Board, Bhuvan Vikram Dabral for the Herbal Advisory Committee, Subhash Barthwal for the Statehood Movement Council, Puneet Mittal for the Urban Development Committee and Mohan Singh Rawat Advocate for the Uttarakhand Sanskrit Academy. This latest round of appointments is seen not only as a measure to strengthen party organisation but also as a way to keep the political atmosphere calm amid internal and external pressures. By strategically placing trusted leaders in influential roles, the Chief Minister appears to be ensuring smoother governance and enhanced party coordination in the months to come.

Minister Ponnamto attend Chintan Shivir on social justice in Dehradun on April 7 and 8

Chardham yatra route split into zones for better management; over 6,000 personnel to be deployed

Dehradun, Apr 5: The Chardham yatra route has been classified into 15 super zones, 41 zones and 137 sectors for better management of the annual pilgrimage to the four famed Himalayan temples of Uttarakhand, a senior police official said on Saturday. Inspector General (IG) Garhwal Swaroop on Saturday said more than 6,000 personnel will be deployed along the route to monitor security and transportation arrangements. Every sector will be spread over a 10-kilometre area, where security personnel will conduct patrolling [] The post Chardham yatra route split into zones for better management; over 6,000 personnel to be deployed appeared first on Daily Excelsior .