India Witnessed Many Transformations In Last 12 Years: PM Modi
NEW DELHI, Jun 8: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday highlighted the various welfare measures undertaken by his government in the last 12 years, saying India has witnessed many transformations and at the core of these changes is the welfare of the poor. On the completion of the second year of his third term, Modi cited initiatives like the Direct Benefit Transfer, Swachh Bharat, PM Awas Yojana and Ayushman Bharat, and said they have been driven by a simple objective [] The post India Witnessed Many Transformations In Last 12 Years: PM Modi appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
3 Air India Aircraft Damaged at Delhi Airport After Ground Equipment Hit Them During Storm (VIDEO)
Three Air India aircraft parked at Delhi Airport's Terminal 2 were damaged after strong winds and rain caused ground equipment to collide with them. Two planes are expected to resume operations soon.
3 Air India Aircraft At Delhi Airport Damaged By Ground Equipment Amid Rain, Storm
Mumbai, Jun 8: Three Air India narrowbody aircraft parked at Terminal 2 of Delhi International Airport were damaged when ground support equipment hit them due to sudden strong wind and rain, the airport authority said on Sunday. All three aircraft were taken out of operation after the collision on Saturday, said the airport operator. The ground equipment belonging to Air India Engineering and IndiGo moved from their position due to the sudden inclement weather, hitting the aircraft parked at Terminal [] The post 3 Air India Aircraft At Delhi Airport Damaged By Ground Equipment Amid Rain, Storm appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
New Delhi, Delhi, India Business Wire India
Mamata Banerjee and Abhishek Banerjee Attend India Bloc Meeting Amid TMC Crisis
New Delhi, June 8: Former West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee and her nephew, Abhishek Banerjee, the General Secretary of the Trinamool Congress (TMC), are set to participate in the opposition India bloc meeting today in New Delhi. Political analysts believe this meeting is particularly significant for the Banerjees compared to other allies in the ... Read more Mamata Banerjee and Abhishek Banerjee Attend India Bloc Meeting Amid TMC Crisis
Strong Winds Damage 3 Air India Planes at Delhi Airport
The incident comes a day after an IndiGo 6E 6283 flight operating from Bengaluru to Mumbai was delayed after suffering a bird hit
Dipke Warns of Nationwide Protests Unless Pradhan Steps Down
The Cockroach Janata Party conducted an agitation at Jantar Mantar in New Delhi on June 6, demanding the resignation of Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan over the alleged paper leak cases in the country.
Short staff, ancient equipment challenges before Delhi Fire Service as scrutiny mounts
Delhi Fire Service grapples with significant staff shortages and outdated communication systems. Over a quarter of firefighter posts are vacant. Station officer positions are critically understaffed. The department relies on a decades-old wireless system, hindering effective communication between control rooms, stations, and firefighters. This situation comes under scrutiny following a recent tragedy.
Delhis underground link could redefine NCR airport travel
Residents from several central and western Delhi localities could benefit from easier travel. The post Delhis underground link could redefine NCR airport travel appeared first on Fusion - WeRIndia .
Australia Announces ODI Squad Against Bangladesh, Head and Marsh Rested
New Delhi, June 8: Australia has announced its squad for the upcoming three-match ODI series against Bangladesh. The Kangaroos will play without Travis Head and Mitchell Marsh. Josh Inglis has been appointed as the captain for this series. According to national selector Tony Dodemaide, Head was initially selected for both the ODI and T20 International ... Read more Australia Announces ODI Squad Against Bangladesh, Head and Marsh Rested
Delhi-NCR Weather Today, 8 JuneLive: Delhi-NCR Likely To Receive Monsoon Between June 25-30
Weather Updates Today, Heatwave, IMD Alert LIVE Updates: Delhi NCR expected to receive southwest monsoon from June 25 to June 30, says IMD
Sachin Tendulkar Congratulates Alexander Zverev on French Open Victory
New Delhi, June 8: German tennis star Alexander Zverev claimed the title at the 2026 French Open on Sunday. In a thrilling mens singles final, Zverev defeated Italys Flavio Cobolli with a score of 6-1, 4-6, 6-4, 6-7 (5), 6-1, marking his first Grand Slam victory. Following Zverevs triumph, Indian cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar took ... Read more Sachin Tendulkar Congratulates Alexander Zverev on French Open Victory
Three Air India Aircraft Damaged by Strong Winds at Delhi Airport
SRINAGAR: Three Air India narrow-body aircraft sustained damage at Delhis Indira Gandhi International (IGI) Airport on Sunday evening after ground support equipment was blown into the parked planes during a sudden rainstorm, according to a report by The Times of India. The incident occurred at Terminal 2 (T2) when strong winds swept through the airport []
Top 5 Batters with the Highest Scores in Womens T20 World Cup History
New Delhi, June 8: The countdown to the Womens T20 World Cup 2026 has begun. This mega event is set to take place in England starting June 11. Here are the names of the five batters who have scored the highest runs in the history of the Womens T20 World Cup. Meg Lanning: The former ... Read more Top 5 Batters with the Highest Scores in Womens T20 World Cup History
Amit Shah inaugurates newly constructed Sabareesam building at Ayyappa Temple Complex in Delhi
Air India planes hit by ground equipment; probe under way
Strong winds and rain caused ground support equipment to hit three Air India aircraft at Delhi's Indira Gandhi International Airport. The aircraft were parked at Terminal 2. The incident occurred on Sunday. The airport operator said no weather warning was issued. Two of the damaged planes are expected to return to service soon.
Rajya Sabha polls: BJP challenges Congress with third candidate in MP
The announcement was made through a press release issued late Sunday evening by the party`s central office in New Delhi
INDIA bloc meeting in Delhi to see participation from 23 political parties
The gathering, branded as the INDIA janbandhan meeting, is expected to deliberate on the alliances future course, including preparations for the 2029 Lok Sabha elections and coordination on key political issues
Delhi Assembly Speaker to attend CPA India Region Zone-II meeting in Chandigarh
The conference, themed Role of Aware Society and Legislators in Realising Future Challenges and the Goal of Viksit Bharat 2047, is scheduled to take place from June 89 at the Haryana Legislative Assembly, said the official
Congress Leaders Express Grief Over Suraj Hegdes Passing
New Delhi, June 8: Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge and MP Rahul Gandhi have expressed their condolences over the passing of party secretary and former Indian Youth Congress in-charge Suraj Hegde. Kharge stated, During this difficult time, my heartfelt sympathies are with his family, friends, and supporters. May God grant them the strength and courage to ... Read more Congress Leaders Express Grief Over Suraj Hegdes Passing
Delhi Assembly Speaker to Address CPA Conference in Chandigarh
New Delhi, June 8: Delhi Assembly Speaker Vijender Gupta will address the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA) India Region Zone-2 North Zone conference in Chandigarh on Monday. According to an official, the conference, themed The Role of an Aware Society and Public Representatives: Future Challenges and Realizing the Developed India 2047 Goal, will take place on ... Read more Delhi Assembly Speaker to Address CPA Conference in Chandigarh
PM Modi Emphasizes Harmony with Nature for the Welfare of All Beings
New Delhi, June 8: Prime Minister Narendra Modi shared a profound message on Monday regarding the importance of maintaining balance with nature. In a post on X, he stated, The core essence of our culture has always been to ensure the welfare of all beings by harmonizing with nature. With this broad vision, India is ... Read more PM Modi Emphasizes Harmony with Nature for the Welfare of All Beings
BJP Announces Third Candidate for Rajya Sabha from Madhya Pradesh, Releases List for Karnataka
New Delhi, June 8: The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has officially announced its candidates for the upcoming Rajya Sabha elections from Madhya Pradesh and Karnataka, as well as for the Karnataka Legislative Council elections. According to party sources, the list of candidates was released through a press statement from the BJP headquarters in New Delhi ... Read more BJP Announces Third Candidate for Rajya Sabha from Madhya Pradesh, Releases List for Karnataka
INDIA Bloc leaders meet in Delhi as 23 parties reaffirm unity
New Delhi: Twenty-three political parties have confirmed their participation in the INDIA bloc meeting being held in New Delhi on Monday, June 8, with the Congress asserting that the opposition alliance remains united despite its diverse political composition. The gathering, branded as the INDIA janbandhan meeting, is expected to deliberate on the alliances future course, 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 .
Strong 6.4 Magnitude Earthquake Strikes the Philippines
New Delhi, June 8: A powerful earthquake measuring 6.4 in magnitude struck the Philippines early Monday morning. The tremor was recorded at 5:18 AM local time. According to the United States Geological Survey (USGS), the earthquakes epicenter was located at a latitude of 5.605 degrees north and a longitude of 125.408 degrees east. It occurred ... Read more Strong 6.4 Magnitude Earthquake Strikes the Philippines
Govt considers driving licence validity till 50, online vehicle transfers and permit renewals
The government is considering extending driving license validity until holders turn 50, aiming to reduce public inconvenience. Additionally, vehicle ownership transfers and permit renewals are slated to become fully online. These measures, along with a negative points system for traffic violations, are expected to streamline processes and improve road safety.
New Delhi, June 8: The India alliance meeting, scheduled for Monday in New Delhi, has confirmed participation from 23 political parties. The Congress party emphasizes that, despite differing political ideologies, the opposition coalition remains united. This meeting, called under the banner of India Janbandhan, is expected to focus on the coalitions future strategies. Discussions will ... Read more Opposition Alliance India Holds Key Meeting in New Delhi to Strengthen Unity Against Central Policies
Delhi will see clear skies and high temperatures this week. Thunderstorms and light rain are expected from June 11. The monsoon is predicted to reach Delhi between June 25 and June 30. This will bring relief from the heat. Temperatures are expected to drop significantly after midweek. Gusty winds will accompany the rain.
INDIA Bloc Meet Live Updates: Pointed Fingers Or Alliance Unity? All Eyes On Delhi Meeting
INDIA Bloc Meet Live Updates: 23 political parties of the INDIA bloc are likely to meet after key partners TMC and DMK faced defeat in the recently concluded Assembly polls.
Journalist Anjana Kashyap and TV Today Network have filed a Rs 2 crore defamation suit against Khan Sir and other educators. The lawsuit stems from a debate on the commercialization of education, with plaintiffs alleging a coordinated online campaign damaged their reputation and endangered family privacy, including the disclosure of a child's school information.
Mr. Bansal successfully appealed a tax demand after claiming Section 54F exemption on Rs 7.59 crore long-term capital gains from unlisted shares. The ITAT Delhi ruled that depositing unutilized funds in the Capital Gains Account Scheme was unnecessary as the property was purchased before filing the ITR. The tribunal also clarified ownership of a single residential unit and independent computation of capital gains.
A Delhi University professor's murder in east Delhi has been linked to a multi-crore ancestral property in West Bengal. Police arrested a couple from Bardhaman and apprehended their minor son, alleging they killed the professor after she refused to sell her share of the inherited property.
NEYMAR SET FOR WORLD CUP SWAN SONG
New Delhi, June 7: Brazil forward Neymar has indicated the FIFA World Cup 202, starting Thursday, will be the last of his career. Brazil will be competing at the FIFA World Cup for a record-extending 23rd time next year. Indeed, the Selecao are the only side to have featured in every edition of the global []
Brazil, Germany, Portugal shine; Belgium win big in friendlies
New Delhi, June 7: Bruno Guimaraes and Endrick scored in each half as Brazil stepped up its World Cup preparations with a 2-1 win over Egypt. Newcastle United captain Guimaraes opened the scoring by dispossessing Mohanad Lasheen on the edge of the 18-yard box and calmly slotting his shot into the far corner. The African []
Delhi Musical Evening pays tribute to Lata, Asha and Dharmendra
A soulful musical evening was held in the national capital to offer tributes to timeless legends of Indian cinema and music Lata Mangeshkar, Asha Bhosle, and Dharmendra. Hosted by Manndakini Productions, the Mausiqui Edition 4, was held at the Shri Sathya Sai Auditorium here last week where eminent personalities from the fields of entertainment, []
Speaker Birla calls for collective efforts for a developed India
NEW DELHI, Jun 7 : Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla on Sunday outlined a collaborative blueprint for making India into a developed country by 2047, emphasising that economic development needs to be inclusive. Addressing an event of the Maheshwari community here, Birla emphasised that entrepreneurship and nation-building must progress hand in hand to ensure that economic growth is both inclusive and sustainable. According to the Lok Sabha Secretariat, the speaker asserted that development is meaningful only when its benefits reach [] The post Speaker Birla calls for collective efforts for a developed India appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
LoP Sunil raises key J&K concerns with Home Minister in New Delhi
Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, June 7: Leader of Opposition in the Jammu & Kashmir Legislative Assembly, Sunil Sharma, today met Union Home Minister Amit Shah in New Delhi and held extensive discussions on a range of issues concerning J&K. During the meeting, detailed deliberations were held on the prevailing security situation, law and order, developmental initiatives, and the overall political landscape of the Union Territory. Sunil Sharma apprised the Home Minister of various ground-level concerns and highlighted the aspirations of the [] The post LoP Sunil raises key J&K concerns with Home Minister in New Delhi appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Womens T20 World Cup Kicks Off on June 12 with 12 Teams Competing
New Delhi, June 8: Ahead of the ICC Womens T20 World Cup 2026, ICC Chairman Jay Shah has extended his best wishes to all 12 participating teams. The tournament will commence on June 12 in England and Wales, with the final match scheduled for July 5. In a statement on the social media platform X, ... Read more Womens T20 World Cup Kicks Off on June 12 with 12 Teams Competing
India eyes better market access under proposed trade agreement with EAEU
New Delhi, June 7: India is eyeing easier compliance with SPS (sanitary and phytosanitary measures) and TBT (technical barriers to trade) requirements under the proposed free trade agreement with the Russia-led EAEU group, an official said. Complex testing, certification and regulatory procedures under these often act as non-tariff barriers, which increase costs for exporters and []
Gautam Adani richest in Asia with net worth at $89.2 bn: Forbes
New Delhi, June 7: Adani Group Chairman Gautam Adanis net worth rose to $89.2 billion, ranking him ahead of Reliance Industries Mukesh Ambani ($88 billion) and SoftBanks Masayoshi Son ($87 billion), who held the title of Asias richest before shares of the Japanese investment firm fell on Thursday, according to Forbes Real-Time Billionaires list. Gautam []
B L Saraf bushanlalsaraf@gmail.com Some weeks back Chief Minister, Omar Abdullah, rushed to Delhi to meet Home Minister, Amit Shah, reportedly, for clearance of the Business Rules, framed by his Government to ensure that there is a proper demarcation of executive powers which two constitutional heads would yield in their respective domains, so far as governance of J&K is concerned. Approval thereof from the MHA is still awaited .We may recall that soon after assuming charge of governance, a memorandum [] The post Take a cue from the Ladakhis appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
23 political parties to attend INDIA bloc meeting today
NEW DELHI, June 7: Congress leader Jairam Ramesh on Sunday said that 23 political parties have confirmed their participation in a meeting of the INDIA alliance, or INDIA Janbandhan, scheduled to be held at the Constitution Club in New Delhi on June 8. In a post on social media platform X, Ramesh said the meeting would take place at 12 noon and would bring together a broad spectrum of Opposition parties united against what they describe as the Narendra Modi [] The post 23 political parties to attend INDIA bloc meeting today appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Pak army opens firing on PoJK protesters
NEW DELHI, June 7: Authorities in Pakistan-occupied Jammu Kashmir (PoJK) have stepped up security measures ahead of a region-wide shutdown called for June 9 by the Awami Action Committee (AAC), amid growing unrest over inflation, governance issues and political grievances. Pakistani Army personnel, Punjab Police and Rangers have been deployed across the region. Follow the Daily Excelsior channel on WhatsApp Awami Action Committee activists held a demonstration in Rawalakot on Sunday afternoon, raising slogans against the Pakistani government and military [] The post Pak army opens firing on PoJK protesters appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
iClass Recruitment: Notification for 62 Assistant Positions, Apply by July 2
New Delhi, June 8: AAI Cargo Logistics and Allied Services Company Limited (iClass) has announced a recruitment notification for 62 Assistant (Security) positions on a three-year fixed-term contract basis. The vacancies are spread across various airports in India, including Tirupati (9 positions), Trichy (23), Madurai (9), Bhubaneswar (9), and Udaipur (12). The online application process ... Read more iClass Recruitment: Notification for 62 Assistant Positions, Apply by July 2
Tragic Fire in New Delhi Claims Another Life, Death Toll Reaches 22
New Delhi, June 8: The Delhi Police reported on Sunday that another foreign national succumbed to injuries sustained in a devastating fire in Malviya Nagar, raising the death toll to 22. The deceased was identified as a Nigerian citizen. The tragic incident occurred on June 3 at the multi-story Flourish Stay Bed and Breakfast hotel ... Read more Tragic Fire in New Delhi Claims Another Life, Death Toll Reaches 22
Pakistans Military Struggles to Ensure Internal Security Amid Rising Violence
New Delhi, June 8: According to the Pakistan Institute for Conflict and Security Studies (PICSS), militant violence in Pakistan surged by 27% in May. The country is trapped in a vicious cycle of armed attacks, with no signs of abating. The increasing frequency and impact of these attacks raise serious questions about the capabilities of ... Read more Pakistans Military Struggles to Ensure Internal Security Amid Rising Violence
Meghalaya-o anaros, narang, lakadong-na agreba nambatgipa cashew nut-ko mana
India-o Cashew manbatgipa adokrangoni Mlaay 9-gipa ongenga NEW DELHI: Meghalaya-ko anaros (kew pineapple), narang (mandarin orange) aro lakadong holdikona mingsinga baksanaba cashew gea-gamaninaba mingsinga. Niatgenchimode India asongo cashew mangiparangoni top 10-o Meghalaya-ba napa. Cashew gea-gamanio chusokaniara namen gisiko nangatgipa onga, jolni saksa pamangsa Garo Hills-o cashew gea-gamani siangako tangchapilatna raken kam kaaha jeni asel daoni []
Mukesh Sahni Claims He Could Have Been Bihars Chief Minister
Bengaluru, June 8: The Vikassheel Insaan Party (VIP) has officially launched its political expansion in Karnataka. The party held a grand ceremony aimed at energizing its organizational structure and social justice movement. During the event, national president and former Bihar minister Mukesh Sahni stated that if he had made a deal with Delhi, he would ... Read more Mukesh Sahni Claims He Could Have Been Bihars Chief Minister
Delhi Government to Add 2,800 AC Electric Buses Under Central Scheme
New Delhi, June 8: The Delhi government is set to enhance the public transport network in the national capital by incorporating 2,800 air-conditioned low-floor pure electric buses under the Central Governments PM Electric Drive Revolution in Innovative Vehicle Enhancement (PM e-Drive) scheme. Transport Minister Pankaj Kumar Singh announced that the proposed fleet will consist of ... Read more Delhi Government to Add 2,800 AC Electric Buses Under Central Scheme
Himanshu, Diksha, and Suraj Shine in Rifle and Pistol Trials
New Delhi, June 8: In a thrilling display of marksmanship, Himanshu Dhillon from Haryana triumphed in the mens 10-meter air rifle final at the T4 National Selection Trials held at the Trishul Shooting Range in Dehradun. He narrowly defeated Parth Rakesh Mane from Maharashtra with a final shot that secured his victory. Meanwhile, Diksha Vaish ... Read more Himanshu, Diksha, and Suraj Shine in Rifle and Pistol Trials
Uttarakhand CM Discusses Malviya Nagar Fire Incident with Delhi Counterpart
New Delhi, June 8: In the wake of the Malviya Nagar fire incident, Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami reached out to Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta to express concerns regarding the arrest of Keshav Negi, a resident of Uttarakhand. In response, Chief Minister Gupta assured that the investigation would be conducted fairly, transparently, and ... Read more Uttarakhand CM Discusses Malviya Nagar Fire Incident with Delhi Counterpart
Building a Strong Nation Through Education and Values: Indresh Kumar at Muslim Youth Conference
New Delhi, June 8: Indresh Kumar, a member of the National Executive of the RSS, addressed the Muslim Youth Conference organized by the Muslim National Forum. He emphasized the crucial role of students and youth in nation-building. Kumar stated that student and youth cells across the country have committed to conducting multiple programs in every ... Read more Building a Strong Nation Through Education and Values: Indresh Kumar at Muslim Youth Conference
Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta to Launch Yamuna Cleanliness Drive on June 14
New Delhi, June 8: Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta will kick off the governments Yamuna Riverfront Cleanliness Campaign 2026 on June 14, an official announced on Sunday. The initiative aims to restore the lost glory of the Yamuna, clean its banks, and raise public awareness about the rivers significance. The Chief Minister will actively participate ... Read more Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta to Launch Yamuna Cleanliness Drive on June 14
NDMC Vice Chairman Leads Tree Plantation Drive in North West Motibagh
New Delhi, June 8: Kuljeet Singh Chahal, Vice Chairman of the New Delhi Municipal Council (NDMC), participated in a tree plantation event on Sunday at the community center organized by the central government RWA under the campaign One Tree in the Name of Mother in North West Motibagh. Local residents and representatives from resident welfare ... Read more NDMC Vice Chairman Leads Tree Plantation Drive in North West Motibagh
23 political parties will participate in INDIA bloc meeting today
New Delhi: Twenty-three political parties have confirmed their participation in the INDIA janbandhan meeting at the Constitution Club on Monday, the Congress said and asserted that the opposition bloc continues to stand united through its diversity. Congress leader Jairam Ramesh said there are some parties that have expressed their inability to attend this particular meeting []
Parliamentary panel investigates NEET, CBSE exam irregularities
Asks NTA to define paper leak New Delhi: A parliamentary panel has asked the National Testing Agency (NTA) to define what constitutes a paper leak in its definition and whether any paper leaks have occurred in exams it conducted since 2018, sources said. The panels questionnaire follows NTA officials appearance before it last week, where []
Internal Conflicts Emerge Ahead of India Alliance Meeting, Says RP Singh
New Delhi, June 8: BJP spokesperson RP Singh commented on the growing internal conflicts within the India Alliance ahead of its meeting scheduled for June 8. He noted that several parties involved in the alliance are dissatisfied with Congress. The DMK has decided to boycott the meeting, while CPI(M) and Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM) have ... Read more Internal Conflicts Emerge Ahead of India Alliance Meeting, Says RP Singh
Anand Dubey Urges CM Revant Reddy to Preserve Indias Unity Amid Diversity
New Delhi, June 8: Anand Dubey, spokesperson for Shiv Sena (UBT), responded to recent statements made by Telangana Chief Minister Revant Reddy regarding the delimitation issue and the position of the India Alliance. He emphasized that efforts to divide the country based on states should be avoided. Dubey also advised the Congress party to take ... Read more Anand Dubey Urges CM Revant Reddy to Preserve Indias Unity Amid Diversity
2 Pet Dogs Die, 7 Residents Rescued From Fire In Delhi's New Friends Colony
Using specialised equipment and alternative access routes, seven residents, including two women, one man and four children, were rescued from the building, police said.
Court rejects bail to tailor arrested in workers unrest case
The court held that the evidence indicated the applicants involvement in gang violence and breach of law and order
Plaster peeling off for years? Greater Noida orders structural audit of condo after bikers death
RWA federation seeks fire safety audit of hotels, PGs and highrises
Tourist buses picking up passengers on eway to be impounded
Buses with tourist permit only allowed to pick up passengers at origin and destination; violators to face action
Airport takeoff nears, retired staff to pitch in for YEIDA workload
35 posts on offer, application forms up on YEIDA website, say officials
Biker crashes into wall after concrete chunk falls on him, dies
FIR Against Builder & AOA; Maintenance In-Charge Arrested
Buddhist Monk In Delhi For Peace Walk
Pannakara gained global attention after leading a 120-day, 2,300-mile Walk for Peace from Houston
Committee on Demographic Changes: Salient features & the effective agenda
The national committee on demographic changes has an onerous task in hand to take people on board at a national level and listen to the grievances, complaints and suggestions of the people FRAGRANCE OF IDEAS ASHWANI KUMAR CHRUNGOO Finally, the government of India recently decided to appoint a high-level national committee on demographic changes in the country. It is a well-timed decision that has historic dimensions and value and will determine the civilizational path, in future, for India to take. The decision is aimed at scientifically assessing and addressing unnatural demographic shifts caused by illegal immigration and other abnormal factors. The Committee will be headed by Justice Prakash Prabhakar Naolekar (Retired Supreme Court Judge) as its chairman. The full composition of the national committee membership is as follows:The Census Commissioner of India, Durga Shanker Mishra (IAS Retd.), Balaji Srivastava (IPS Retd.), & Dr. Shamika Ravi (Member of the PMs Economic Advisory Council). The Joint Secretary (Foreigners-I) of the Ministry of Home Affairs will be the Member Secretary of the national committee.The five-member national committee will be tasked with submitting its comprehensive report within one year, with an optional six-month extension if required by the Ministry of Home Affairs. The high-level committee plans to analyse abnormal population changes across religious and social communities, particularly in border states, and recommend actionable policy, legislative, and administrative measures.It is a decision that will take care of many demographic challenges towards which the Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Home Minister Amit Shah, NSA Ajit Dobal and the General Secretary (Org.) of the BJP, B.L. Santosh, referred to various times during the last year, particularly during the election time. India has been severely affected by demographic changes post the 1971 war and the liberation of Bangladesh. The illegal infiltration from Bangladesh and of Rohingya Muslims from Myanmar both have created havoc throughout the country. This illegal population has social, cultural, economic and security dimensions for the nation, and an early resolution of the issue is on the agenda of the present government, which is quite reassuring. The main challenge for the governmentwas initially to convert this to a functional & working agenda, which it has done. There are a number of Pakistani infiltrators also living in various parts of the country who are always a standing security threat to the nation. These infiltrators have different denominations, and these go on changingthem perpetually. In Jammu and Kashmir, wives and children of the so-called surrendered terrorists, besides some others who were born in Pakistan, are also living illegally in various parts of the state. Moreover, these illegal infiltrators were/are being provided shelter, safety and other facilities by the political leaders, and even the state governments ruled by opposition parties, considering them their vote-bank. The Supreme Courts recent judgement upholding the SIR done by the ECI, paving the way for deletion of these infiltrators from the electoral rolls, has opened gates for their detection, deletion and deportation. The Home Minister of India has repeatedlysaid that the infiltrators will ultimately be deported to their respective nations. Generally speaking, the common citizens throughout the country and also the nationalist populace in Jammu and Kashmir feel very happy and satisfied with the formation of the national committee. It is expected that the representatives of the people will make their presentations before the committee when it starts working in the near future. It will be incumbent uponthe politicalparties, social organisations and the other NGOs to present their point of view in this regard before the committee. The challenges are seen as thecivilizational challenges by the nationalist populace of the country. Recent elections in WestBengal have given a soulful push to the debate of infiltration in the country. The challenges in this regard can be seen and observed besides West Bengal in Assam, UP, Kerala, Maharashtra and even in the states like Uttarakhand, Delhi, Haryana and HP. The alarming bells in relation to the illegal infiltration by Bangladeshis and Rohingyas of Myanmar have added dangerous dimensions to the already existing grave scenario. In case the issue remains unaddressed, there are all possibilities of a civil-strife in an eventual unseen future. The past history of six decades from 1947 onwards saw most of the political parties and players, so-called human rights activists and intellectuals, and also writers cum activists openly supporting the demographic imbalance for their political and vested interests. In particular, their support for the illegal infiltrations were motivated by their appeasement policies and vote-bank politics, and they even didnt miss to involve the courts also in this imbroglio. A battery of senior lawyers keep on fighting the cases of these illegal infiltrators as they are paid heavily by certain agencies to fight these cases. There is another dimension to the issue of demographic imbalance. Besides the uneven growth of population in various religious and caste denominations over the last seven decades, the Hindu population in the country has seen a worrisome negative downward trend. While the current birth-rate among Hindus per couple is 1.90, the Muslims have the birth rate of 2.50. The Sikh community, along with the communities like Christians, Jains, Buddhists, Parsis and non-religious denominations, have assumed a highly negative growth in their numbers, ranging from 1.10 to 1.80. While the national growth rate in this context at present is approximately 2.00, the Muslim community growth rate stands at 0.50 more than the national growth rate. Several southern states have raised this issue a number of times. Their strict adherence and follow-up of the national family planning policy has brought their numbers down as compared to the northern states. This demographic challenge has its different dimensions in different ways in different states. The common thing is that these challenges are poised to create social, cultural and economic disparity and tensions leading to an unhealthy political situation in the country. Consequent upon the genocide and ethnic cleansing of Hindus in Kashmir, four decades ago and afterwards, the forced mass exodus of the community opened the gates for demographic invasion at the local
INDIA bloc faces internal strife ahead of key meeting today
INDIA bloc leaders meet in Delhi amid internal divisions. Recent election losses in several states have weakened the alliance. Key leaders are absent, raising questions about unity. The bloc aims to focus on issues like fuel prices and economic stress to counter the BJP. Cooperation outside Parliament will be decided based on the Congress party's attitude.
The Fading Art of Houseboat Making in Kashmir
To allow this craft to die is to amputate a part of our own story DR AZHAR AYAZ SHAH An inheritance we are letting sink For more than a century, Kashmirs houseboats have floated on Dal and Nigeen lakes as silent witnesses to our history from Dogra rule to the turmoil of the 1990s, from the first trickle of foreign tourists to the selfie generation. They are not just ornamental lodging for visitors; they are moving museums of a rare craft, the living rooms of our memory. Yet today, the art that created them is fading before our eyes. The gradual disappearance of houseboat making is not a romantic exaggeration. It is a harsh reality shaped by environmental degradation, confused regulations, economic distress, and official apathy. What we are watching is not only the decline of a tourist product but the erosion of a unique cultural technology that belongs to Kashmir and nowhere else in the world. A craft born of ingenuity and constraint The Kashmiri houseboat emerged from a convergence of geography and politics. During the Dogra rule, non-local officers were not allowed to own land in the Valley. So, to host British officials and travellers, local craftsmen innovated: they brought the home to the water. These were not crude barges. They were hand-crafted wooden marvels that combined the structural knowledge of boat builders with the aesthetic finesse of woodcarvers from Zainakadal and Zadibal. Every plank of deodar was chosen with care. Every joint was made by hand and sealed with traditional materials, long before industrial resins arrived. The elegant khatamband ceilings, the carved walnut panels, the latticed windows all of these were the signature of a shared ecosystem of artisans: boat makers, carpenters, carvers, upholsterers, even copper artisans whose samovars completed the experience. This craft was never merely about construction; it was about adaptation. The houseboat was designed to respond to water levels, to the Valleys harsh winter, to the social needs of extended Kashmiri families and foreign guests. A finished houseboat embodied generations of accumulated knowledge much of it unwritten, passed from master to apprentice, from father to son. Today, that chain is breaking. From pride to precarious livelihood Talk to any remaining houseboat maker on the banks of Dal, and a similar story emerges. Where once there were long waiting lists and advance bookings to build or renovate houseboats, now there are sporadic orders and growing debts. A traditional houseboat takes months to a year to build, requires expensive seasoned timber, and demands a high level of skill. But the returns are no longer commensurate with the labour. At the same time, younger generations are refusing to enter the profession. They see their fathers struggling with license issues, court notices, and an uncertain future. They compare their own modest earnings with what a basic job in the private sector or outside the state can provide. Faced with such an unequal bargain, why would a young Kashmiri choose to plane wood on the lake in the bitter cold when they could sit in an office in Delhi, Dubai, or even Srinagars emerging corporate spaces? The emotional cost of this exodus is visible on the faces of ageing craftsmen. Many of them speak of their work with great pride. Yet they also admit that when they look around in their workshops, they no longer see apprentices. They see empty spaces, idle tools, and the fear that once they are gone, the knowledge will die with them. Environmental crisis and regulatory confusion No serious discussion of houseboats can ignore the ecologically fragile state of our water bodies. Dal Lake has been shrinking for decades under the pressure of encroachments, sewage, and unplanned development. In response, authorities have often treated houseboats as convenient scapegoats highly visible structures that can be easily targeted while more powerful polluters continue largely unchecked. Yes, houseboats contribute to the lakes ecological load, especially when sewage management is not modernised. But they are a small part of a much larger problem. For years, policy has oscillated between eviction threats, demolition drives, and vague promises of rehabilitation or infrastructure upgrades. Licenses have been frozen, new houseboats have been effectively banned, and repairs have become mired in permissions and bureaucratic uncertainty. The result is a perverse situation: owners are not allowed to build new houseboats or substantially upgrade old ones, yet they are blamed when dilapidated structures sink or leak pollutants. Craftsmen who could have been employed in retrofitting houseboats with modern, eco-friendly technologies are instead sitting idle, while the narrative of houseboats as environmental villains gains ground. A more balanced policy would recognise houseboats as heritage assets and regulate them accordingly. Instead, we largely have a regime of fear and confusion. The government talks of preserving the lake and reviving tourism, but on the ground, the people who embody both the houseboat makers and owners are left to navigate an impossible maze of notices, surveys, and shifting guidelines. Tourism without soul The irony could not be sharper. At every tourism fair, in every promotional clip, Kashmir is marketed with the same images: a shikara gliding over still waters, the silhouette of houseboats at sunrise, the reflection of snow peaks in the lake. These visuals have become shorthand for the Valley itself. Yet behind this marketing gloss lies a painful contradiction. We are aggressively selling an icon whose foundations are eroding. International visitors still dream of staying on a houseboat because it promises an authenticity that concrete hotels can never match. But if the art of making and maintaining those houseboats dies, what will be left? Plastic replicas? Floating resorts with no roots in local culture? A tourism experience without soul? Sustainable tourism does not mean stripping away everything that makes a place unique in the name of environmental purity. It means investing in the very crafts and communities that give a destination its character, while modernising practices to reduce harm. In the case of houseboats, this could mean government-backed schemes for sewage
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