Officials caught violating restrictions in Rajasthans Ranthambore zone following rangers death

JAIPUR: Even before the dust settled on the tragic killing of a forest ranger by a tigress in Ranthambore Tiger Reserve, a fresh controversy has shaken the Forest Department. On Tuesday, just two days after Ranger Devendra Chaudhary was mauled to death by a tigress in a restricted zone, senior officers were found taking their guests on a jeep safari through the same sensitive area, despite clear orders restricting access. How the Ranger Was Killed The fatal incident took place on Sunday afternoon. Ranger Devendra Chaudhary had ventured into the forest for an inspection. According to staff at a nearby post, he had entered via an alternate route and returned to Jogi Mahal. A forest guard named Amit had dropped him off on a motorcycle, about 100 meters before Jogi Mahal. Devendra asked the guard to return, saying he would inspect some ongoing construction work alone. While inspecting the site, he was ambushed by a tigress hiding in the bushes. The attack was so sudden that he didnt get a chance to react or call for help. The tigress dragged his body into the undergrowth. A passing forest guard witnessed the aftermath and raised an alarm. Staff from a nearby post rushed to the scene. The tigress sat over Devendras body for nearly 20 minutes before the team managed to drive her away and recover the body. Second Fatal Attack in Just 27 Days This was the second tiger-related death in less than a month. On April 16, a 7-year-old boy, Kartik Suman, was killed by the same tigress, identified as Anvi, also known locally as Kanakati. He had come to the Trinetra Ganesh Temple with his grandmother when the attack occurred. Wildlife experts say that Kanakati has lost her fear of humans, making her extremely dangerous. As a result, Zones 2 and 3 remain closed for all tourism activity, and the route to Trinetra Ganesh Temple has been shut for devotees. There is growing demand for Anvi to be tranquillised and relocated outside Ranthambore. Over the past 15 years, seven forest workers have been attacked by tigers in Ranthambore, with three of those incidents proving fatal. Zones Closed, Yet Rules Flouted Following the rangers death, an alert was issued and Zones 2 and 3 of the sanctuary were closed to both tourists and staff as a precautionary measure. However, in complete disregard for the restrictions, the official vehicle of Field Director Anup K.R. was seen transporting guests on a tour through the prohibited area. The jeep reportedly entered Zone 4, visited Jogi Mahalwhere two tigers were spottedand exited through an unauthorised route. The Forest Department is reportedly in shock over the blatant violation. Range Officer Ashwini Pratap confirmed the breach, stating, The vehicle entered a restricted area. A notice will be issued to the driver, and action will be taken. Chief Wildlife Warden Shikha Mehra expressed dismay: Zones 2 and 3 are closed for a reason. We cannot take such risks. The presence of tourists there is surprising and unacceptable. Tiger Movement Creates Panic in Villages Meanwhile, frequent sightings of tigers in the peripheral areas of Ranthambore are causing widespread fear among residents. On Wednesday morning, panic gripped Kutalpura Maliyan village near Sawai Madhopur when a tiger wandered close to human settlements. Former Panchayat Samiti member Jitendra Saini reported that the tiger entered the millet fields around 6 a.m. Villagers quickly informed the Forest Department. A rescue team from Ranthambore reached the spot and began monitoring the animals movement. After several hours, the tiger entered a nearby hotel premises. The team managed to tranquillise the animal and safely relocated it back to the forest after a two-hour effort. Security Measures Under Scrutiny Despite increased patrolling by forest teams, the repeated appearance of tigers in populated areas has sparked fear and raised serious concerns about safety. Children are afraid to attend school, farmers are hesitant to work in the fields, and villagers are climbing onto rooftops for safety. The Forest Department is now facing mounting questions: Why was security not tightened after the first fatality? How did officials manage to flout rules so soon after a deadly incident? And most importantlyhow can such lapses be prevented in future? As tiger numbers grow and their territories shrink, the human-wildlife conflict in Ranthambore is intensifying. The latest incident has only added fuel to the fire, underscoring the urgent need for stricter enforcement and better safety protocols.

Sachin Pilot questions Centre's silence over Trump's ceasefire mediation, slams US attempts to hyphenate India-Pak

JAIPUR: AICC general secretary Sachin Pilot on Wednesday called upon the Government of India to clarify its stance on US President Donald Trump's remarks regarding mediation between India and Pakistan. Expressing his concern, Pilot said Trump not only failed to address the core issue of terrorism but also attempted to equate India with Pakistan and bring the Kashmir issue into international discourse. The US president has claimed that he secured a ceasefire between India and Pakistan using increased trade as leverage. That statement is shocking, Pilot told reporters here. India has fought several wars but this is the first time a ceasefire is being declared by a foreign president. A few hours later, our DGMO (director general of military operations) confirmed the ceasefire. This sequence of events raises serious questions, he said. Criticising Trump's repeated omission of terrorism in his statements, Pilot said state-sponsored terrorism from Pakistan is the real issue between India and Pakistan. Unfortunately, Trump has not mentioned it even once, he said. Neither the US administration nor Vice President (J D Vance) has condemned Pakistan's role in cross-border terrorism or offered any assurance that it will stop, the Congress leader said. Pilot also rejected the US attempt to bring Kashmir into the conversation, saying it is a bilateral issue between India and Pakistan and is not open to third-party intervention. Our issue is terrorism, not Kashmir. By dragging Kashmir into it, Trump has unnecessarily complicated the matter, the former Rajasthan deputy chief minister added. Recalling a resolution passed unanimously by Parliament in 1994 calling for the return of Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK), Pilot urged the government to convene a special session of Parliament to reaffirm that commitment and remove any prevailing confusion. The 1994 resolution is on record. In light of recent developments and the misleading narrative, a special session should be called and the resolution should be reiterated so there is no ambiguity about India's position, he said. 'We stopped a nuclear conflict': US President Trump on India-Pakistan ceasefire Pilot said Trump's narrative attempts to re-hyphenate India and Pakistan. Because of the efforts in the last 20 years, we have grown to a larger economy. We have a global presence and people were talking about Indo-China when it was about economy, population, military, etc. but this development has brought us back to the early 90s when India and Pakistan were hyphenated, which is not a good sign, he said. He said India was nowhere compared to Pakistan. Pilot said somewhere an attempt is being made to weigh India and Pakistan on the same scale once again and that is not a good sign for diplomacy, foreign policy and India's future. He appreciated the defence forces for successfully carrying out Operation Sindoor and destroying the infrastructure of terror with precision. Operation Sindoor is a brilliant operation and the precision with which our forces have struck is excellent, he said. 'Educate Trump': Congress leader hits out at US President's Kashmir mediation remark

Pilot asks Centre to clarify stance on Trumps remarks about mediation between India, Pakistan

Jaipur, May 14: AICC general secretary Sachin Pilot on Wednesday called upon the Government of India to clarify its stance on US President Donald Trumps remarks regarding mediation between India and Pakistan. Expressing his concern, Pilot said Trump not only failed to address the core issue of terrorism but also attempted to equate India with Pakistan and bring the Kashmir issue into international discourse. The US president has claimed that he secured a ceasefire between India and Pakistan using increased [] The post Pilot asks Centre to clarify stance on Trumps remarks about mediation between India, Pakistan appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Centre must clarify Trumps India-Pakistan comment, says Pilot

Jaipur: AICC general secretary Sachin Pilot Wednesday called upon the Government of India to clarify its stance on US President Donald Trumps remarks regarding mediation between India and Pakistan. Expressing his concern, Pilot said Trump not only failed to address the core issue of terrorism but also attempted to equate India with Pakistan and bring []

Apologise, remove Vijay Shah from Cabinet: Sachin Pilot over controversial remarks on Col Qureshi

Apologise, remove Vijay Shah from Cabinet: Sachin Pilot over controversial remarks on Col Qureshi Jaipur: Congress leader Sachin Pilot on Wednesday slammed Madhya Pradesh Tribal Affairs Minister Kunwar Vijay Shah for his controversial remarks about Colonel Sofiya Qureshi and demanded that the state government sack him from the state Cabinet. Pilot also asked the [] The post Apologise, remove Vijay Shah from Cabinet: Sachin Pilot over controversial remarks on Col Qureshi appeared first on Mangalorean.com .

Rajasthan: Barmer youth found dead in Pali after 40 months in India, Pakistan jails

JAIPUR: The body of a 24-year-old Gemararam Meghwal, who had spent over two years imprisoned in Pakistan, was found hanging in a factory in Pali district on Monday. Gemararam, a resident of Barmer district, had crossed into Pakistan in 2021 under unusual circumstances. According to police and local sources, he was reportedly in a relationship with a minor girl from his neighbourhood. During the COVID-19 pandemic, he had gone to Jodhpur to work as a labourer. On returning to his village, instead of going home, he visited the girls house. When her family discovered this, he fled toward the border and is believed to have illegally crossed into Pakistan by jumping over the barbed wire fence. Soon after, Pakistani Rangers apprehended him and lodged him in Karachi jail. Back home, his family filed a missing person's report at the Bijrad police station after searching for him for 810 days. His father, Jugataram, reportedly fell severely ill following the incident and later passed away, devastated by his sons disappearance. On February 14, 2023, after diplomatic efforts by Indias Ministry of External Affairs, Gemararam was released from the Pakistani jail and repatriated through the Wagah border. However, his legal troubles didnt end there. After his return, the minor girls family filed a case against him under the POCSO Act and for rape. He was arrested again and lodged in Balotra jail, where he remained for 12 months. In total, he spent nearly 40 months behind bars in both India and Pakistan. Following his release, Gemararam began working as a coal miner in an iron factory in Jadan town, Pali. According to police, he had been employed there for about a year and lived in shared accommodation with his brother and maternal uncle. On Monday afternoon, his body was found hanging in an empty room of the factory. Coming to know about this, his brother and uncle immediately informed the police. After the post-mortem was conducted on Tuesday morning, police handed over the body to his family, who returned with it to Barmer. Preliminary investigations suggest suicide, but the exact reason remains unknown. Police have launched a detailed probe into the matter. (If you are having suicidal thoughts, or are worried about a friend or need emotional support, someone is always there to listen. Call Sneha Foundation - 04424640050, Tele Manas - 14416 (available 24x7) or iCall, the Tata Institute of Social Sciences' helpline - 02225521111, which is available Monday to Saturday from 8 am to 10 pm.)

18-Year-Old Brings Wife For Delivery At Jaipur Hospital, Doctors Immediately Call Police

Indias most expensive hotel, one nights rent is up to Rs14 lakh, its in, it is owned by

This palace in Jaipur, is India's most expensive hotel, where the rent for one night goes up to 14 lakh. The world is crazy about its royal grandeur and Mughal-Rajputana design.

IPL 2025: Action To Resume On May 17 With RCB V KKR In Bengaluru, Matches At Six Venues; Final On June 3

Indian Premier League: After consultation with the government, security agencies, and all other stakeholders, the Board of Control for Cricket in India has decided to restart the remainder of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 from May 17 and conduct all the matches in six venues. The IPL 2025 will resume at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru on May 17, with Royal Challengers Bengaluru taking on Kolkata Knight Riders. The IPL was suspended for a week because of the intense exchange of fire across the border between India and Pakistan, with the latter launching missiles and drone attacks, which were thwarted by the Indian forces. No matches will be played in Mohali or Dharamsala. Punjab Kings' match against Mumbai Indians, which was earlier moved to Ahmedabad, will now be played at the SMS Stadium in Jaipur on May 26. The final of the IPL will now be played on June 3, with the playoffs to be played from May 29 onwards. The venues for the playoff matches will be announced later. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is pleased to announce the resumption of the TATA IPL 2025. After extensive consultations with government and security agencies, and with all the key stakeholders, the Board has decided to proceed with the remainder of the season. A total of 17 matches will be played across six venues, starting May 17, 2025, and culminating in the final on June 3, 2025. The revised schedule includes two double-headers, which will be played on two Sundays, the BCCI informed in a release on Monday. According to the statement, the playoffs will start with Qualifier 1 on May 29, followed by the Eliminator on the next day. The Qualifier 2 encounter will take place on June 1, with the final scheduled on June 3. Venue details for the playoff matches will be announced at a later stage. According to the statement, the playoffs will start with Qualifier 1 on May 29, followed by the Eliminator on the next day. The Qualifier 2 encounter will take place on June 1, with the final scheduled on June 3. Also Read: LIVE Cricket Score Article Source: IANS

What happens to the abandoned PBKS vs DC match in Dharamsala?

The BCCI has confirmed the resumption of IPL 2025, starting May 17 across six venues, with the final on June 3. The league was paused due to a security incident. Royal Challengers Bengaluru will face Chennai Super Kings in the opening match. The abandoned Punjab Kings vs Delhi Capitals match has been rescheduled to May 24 in Jaipur.

Bomb threat at Jaipur's SMS Stadium triggers evacuation; border villages, markets on high alert amid Indo-Pakistan tension

JAIPUR: Amid the ongoing tensions between India and Pakistan, Jaipurs Sawai Mansingh Stadium (SMS Stadium) has once again received a bomb threat, triggering panic and a high-level security response. The threatening email was sent to the official ID of the Rajasthan State Sports Council, prompting authorities to immediately evacuate the stadium and launch a search operation. Teams from the police, Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS), bomb disposal unit, and dog squad quickly arrived at the stadium, which is the sole venue for all IPL matches in Rajasthan. Security personnel thoroughly searched the stadium premises to ensure there was no explosive device. This is the second such threat in recent days. On May 8, a similar email was received from a Pakistani IP address, warning that the stadium would be bombed as part of Operation Sindoor. Following that incident, the Rajasthan State Sports Council alerted police officials, and a full-scale search operation was carried out. The Director General of Cyber Crime was also informed about the email originating from a foreign IP. In light of the recent threat, authorities have suspended all player activities inside the stadium. Rajasthan State Sports Council President Neeraj K Pawan confirmed the contents of the email, stating that it claimed a bomb had already been successfully planted in the stadium and a major explosion would occur soon. Senior police officials were immediately informed, and the stadium was cleared of all staff and visitors. A comprehensive security sweep is currently underway. Border tension intensifies in Jaisalmer Meanwhile, despite an official ceasefire, the atmosphere along the India-Pakistan border remains tense. Increased activity of Pakistani drones has been reported, particularly in the border villages of Jaisalmer, which remain on high alert. Residents are staying vigilant even before receiving formal advisories from the administration. During the nights, lights are kept off, and mobile phone usage is restricted to avoid detection. In the past three days, villagers have reported hearing several loud explosions, according to sources. Many homes have developed cracks, suspected to be caused by shockwaves or vibrations from nearby blasts. Residents say villages near areas of military movement face the highest risk, as these are often targeted by Pakistani forces. Locals recall the 1971 war, during which bombs were dropped in the region. For many, the sound of explosions, whether from military drills or heightened border activity, has become a part of daily life. Jaipur traders take preventive steps In a proactive measure, Jaipur traders have decided to install emergency sirens in the citys busy marketplaces. The sirens, funded and set up by the traders themselves, will be used to alert the public swiftly in case of any emergency or security threat. The district administration has been informed and will oversee the monitoring of the system. One siren will be installed in each major market area. Traders say the goal is to prevent panic by giving people time to take immediate safety measures. If any emergency arises in the city, these sirens can help alert people before chaos erupts, said a representative from the traders' association.

Rajasthan: Police successfully diffuses suspicious object recovered in Jaisalmer

A suspicious object was diffused in Jaisalmer. This followed heightened India-Pakistan tensions after Operation Sindoor. Jaipur's Sawai Mansingh Stadium received a bomb threat via email. Authorities evacuated the stadium. The Bomb Disposal Squad and Dog Squad investigated. This was not the first threat to the stadium. Police and investigative agencies are thoroughly investigating the matter. The stadium was completely evacuated.

90 per cent of tourists cancel North India trips due to tension at border

HYDERABAD: After the Pahalgam massacre and escalation of tension between India and Pakistan, tourists are cancelling or postponing their summer vacation plans. Travel agencies and frequent travellers report that destinations like the North East, Kashmir, and other popular vacation spots are currently deemed unsafe. The Indian government has also issued an advisory urging tourists to avoid travelling to border states due to the prevailing tensions. Travel agency sources indicate that destinations such as Srinagar, Leh, Manali, Shimla, Gangtok, Darjeeling, Jaipur, and Udaipur are typically high in demand during summer. However, over 90 percent of tourists have cancelled their trips, while 5 to 10 percent have postponed their plans, awaiting resolution of the current tensions. A small percentage of travellers are opting for southern destinations like Goa, Coorg, Munnar, and Chikmagalur. Holiday company representatives say that cancellations also extend to border states and Union Territories like Andaman and Nicobar Islands and Lakshadweep due to the war-like situation. Besides, some travellers are delaying short international trips, citing concerns over potential flight disruptions or restrictions in countries affected by the India-Pakistan conflict. Papili Bharat Reddy, founder and CEO of Gogaga Holidays Pvt Ltd, told TNIE that the majority of domestic tourists have cancelled their summer plans to destinations like Srinagar, Shimla, Manali, Gangtok, Leh, and Kashmir following the Pahalgam incident. A small fraction has postponed their trips until the situation stabilises. Papili Bharat added that travellers are also hesitant to visit certain Indian islands and border states. Instead, domestic tourists are exploring international destinations like Thailand, Vietnam, Singapore, Malaysia, Dubai, Japan, Baku, and Bali. K Amruth Kumar, an advocate from Hyderabad, said that he had planned a trip to Leh and Manali three months ago, but he now has cancelled it due to the current situation. He is now considering a vacation in Vietnam or another international destination.

Last rites of Pak shelling victims performed with full honours amid pride and grief

JAMMU,JAIPUR, MUZAFFARNAGAR, May 11: Emotional scenes were witnessed across the country as the last rites of those killed in shelling by Pakistan during the recent military conflict with India were performed on Sunday. The Jammu division, which bore the brunt of heavy Pakistani firing and shelling, suffered the most casualties, including civilians. Rifleman Sunil Kumar (25), who was posted with 4 J-K Light Infantry regiment, was given a tearful adieu with hundreds of mourners joining his last rites at his [] The post Last rites of Pak shelling victims performed with full honours amid pride and grief appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

IAF soldier Surendra Kumar cremated in Rajasthans Jhunjhunu

Jaipur: The mortal remains of soldier Surendra Kumar, who was martyred in the Pakistani attack on the Udhampur airbase, were consigned to flames with full military honours at his native village in the Jhunjhunu district of Rajasthan on Sunday. A large number of mourners gathered to bid farewell to the brave soldier. Surendra Kumar, an 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 .

Panic grips residents near border areas of Rajasthan following ceasefire violations by Pakistan

Jaipur: Panic continued to grip the border areas of Rajasthan overnight following ceasefire violations by Pakistan. A blackout was imposed in the border region, and there were reports of drone activity and explosions from Jaisalmer, Barmer and other areas. However, according to Jaisalmer resident Revant Singh, the frequency of the drone activity was lower compared []

Rajasthan tense after brief sigh of relief over truce

JAIPUR: The announcement of a ceasefire between India and Pakistan on Saturday evening sent a huge wave of relief for people in the border districts of Rajasthan. Soon after foreign secretary Vikram Misri confirmed that India had agreed to a ceasefire with Pakistan, people expressed great happiness over the end to hostilities by the two warring nations. The deep anxiety troubling most border residents has given way to a mood of relief and joy. Loud slogans of Bharat Mata ki Jai resonated through most cities, towns and villages of west Rajasthan. The picture in most markets areas was full of happy people who came out after the ceasefire was announced, hugged each other and thanked the administration. Along with this, the youth in groups raised slogans of Bharat Mata Ki Jai and Hindustan Zindabad. The debris of an unidentified object which landed amid the military conflict, in Barmer, Rajasthan, on Saturday. After four days of high tension, red alert, black outs and drone attacks in the border districts of Barmer, Bikaner, Jaisalmer and Sri Ganganagar, people are thrilled with the swift return to normalcy. As some traders in Barmer remarked, we are happy with the armys action. Our country is in a strong position. We will stand with the country in future also. But now we can go back to living a normal life. With both countries agreeing to stop firing on land, in the air and sea with effect from 5 pm on Saturday, all orders restricting peoples movements, enforcing black out etc have been withdrawn and orders for normal functioning were issued. Jhunjhunu Air Force jawan martyred in attack While the military operations were on, tragedy struck Jhunjhunu as Air Force jawan Surendra Kumar was martyred during a Pakistani air strike. The attack took place on Friday night in Moga, Udhampur, Jammu & Kashmir. Surendra, a resident of Mehradasi village in Mandawa, had been serving in the Indian Air Forces medical wing for 14 years.

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

Rajasthan mothers name newborns after Army Operation 'Sindoor,' amid Indo-Pak tensions

JAIPUR: Amid rising military tensions between India and Pakistan, patriotism is finding a unique expression in Rajasthan. Inspired by the Indian Armys recent counter-terrorism initiative, 'Operation Sindoor', several families in the state are naming their newborns after the operation. At the Government Hospital in Nawalgarh, Jhunjhunu district, three babies have already been named 'Sindoor'. The move comes as a symbolic tribute to the army and the sacrifices of soldiers and their families following the terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu & Kashmir. Seema, a new mother at the hospital, expressed her pride, saying, This name will always inspire my son to love his country. The childs grandmother added, We lost many of our bravehearts in the attack. I will send my grandson to the army so he can serve the nation. Sanju, a resident of Jhajhar village, also named her son 'Sindoor'. I gave birth four days ago. My dream is that my son grows up to protect the country. Our mothers and sisters lost their sindoor (symbol of marriage) in the Pahalgam attack. The Indian Army has given a befitting reply through Operation Sindoor, she said. Similarly, Kanchan from Kasairu village named her newborn daughter 'Sindoor' on Friday. This is my tribute to Operation Sindoor. The army has responded courageously to Pakistans cowardly act, she said. Dr. Jitendra Chaudhary, a doctor at the hospital, said, The parents of three newborns have named their children after Operation Sindoor. This reflects the deep patriotic sentiment among the people. The pain of the terrorist attack in Pahalgam still lingers. India hits three Pakistan airbases in retaliatory strikes Tensions High Along Border, Red Alert Issued Meanwhile, security concerns continue to escalate along the India-Pakistan border. A red alert has been issued in Sri Ganganagar, Churu, Hanumangarh, and parts of Bikaner (especially the Nal area). District collectors have advised residents to stay indoors due to fears of drone attacks. In Sri Ganganagar, electricity supply has been suspended as a precautionary measure. Public gatherings and events in Jaisalmer have been banned until further notice. Police have shut down major markets in Jaisalmer, Barmer, Sri Ganganagar, and Bikaner. Security forces became active around 9 a.m. in Nal, about 8 km from Bikaner city, closing shops along the National Highway and within the village market. Explosions were heard early Saturday morning in Jaisalmer, and debris suspected to be from drones or missiles was discovered. Similar incidents were reported in the Uttarai area of Barmer and in Balotra, where objects resembling missiles fell from the sky. The Airports Authority of India has announced the temporary closure of airports in Bikaner, Jaisalmer, Jodhpur, Kishangarh (Ajmer), and Uttarlai (Barmer) until May 14, extending the earlier deadline of May 10. In response to the escalating tension, the Rajasthan government has sanctioned an additional 19 crore for border districts. The funds will be used for emergency supplies, transportation, camp medicines, and essential equipment. The districts receiving this budget include Barmer, Bikaner, Jaisalmer, Sri Ganganagar, Jodhpur, Hanumangarh, and Phalodi. An all-party meeting has been called for Saturday to review the situation. At a cabinet meeting held on Friday, Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma instructed all ministers to visit the districts under their charge and ensure preparedness. Deputy CM Premchand Bairwa and Minister Jogaram Patel confirmed that all advisories from the central government will be strictly followed. Indias air defence success: A saga of decade-long toil

Greater Chennai Polices Central Crime Branch nabbed prime accused in fake visa website scam in Jaipur

CHENNAI: Greater Chennai Polices Central Crime Branch on Thursday arrested the prime accused in the fake Korean visa website scam unearthed around two months ago. A release said the accused, Mahaveer Khathat (34) of Ajmer, was identified as the main person behind the scam. A special team led by Delta-1 Cyber Crime PS Inspector Abraham Cruz Durairaj proceeded to Rajasthan and arrested Khathat in Jaipur. He was brought back to Chennai, produced before the Saidapet court on Thursday and sent to prison. Two laptops, three mobile phones, and 14 credit and debit cards were seized from him. The case was registered based on a complaint by Je-Hyoung Lee, Deputy Consul General of the Consulate of Republic of Korea in Chennai, after discovering a fake Korean visa website being used to cheat Indians. The complaint was made following an inquiry on January 27 from an Indian who received a suspicious visa grant notice.

Missile-like object falls from sky in Balotara, drone debris found in Jaisalmer

Jaipur: A loud explosion was heard in the Gida area of Balotara late Friday night as a missile-like object fell from the sky near Dewasi ki Dhani of Jagram ki Dhani Panchayat. Villagers rushed to the site and discovered a heavy, metallic object resembling a missile lying on the ground. Local authorities immediately informed the []

Pakistani drone attack on Pokhran foiled; Rajasthan border on red alert, blackout enforced

For a second night of grave anxiety on the Rajasthan border, Pakistan launched a drone attack on Pokhran on Friday night. Though loud sounds of explosions were heard and flashes of light were seen in the sky, sources say the Indian air defence system intercepted and neutralised the Pakistani drone. While the Indian forces have foiled the attack, a red alert has been issued in Jaisalmer, Barmer and Sri Ganganagar districts, and residents have been urged to stay indoors. A blackout has been enforced in all districts along the border. There are growing worries that Pakistan may target other areas also through drone attacks. Earlier in the day, a live bomb was recovered in Kishanghat village in Jaisalmer district along the India-Pakistan border on Friday morning, triggering panic among residents amid growing military activity and heightened tensions along Rajasthan's western frontier. The Indian Army immediately sealed the area and launched bomb disposal operations, while security forces issued strict instructions for civilians to maintain a safe distance. The recovery comes at a time when residents across border districts like Jaisalmer, Barmer, Bikaner, and Sriganganagar have reported increased military movement and low-flying aircraft, deepening public anxiety and fueling fears of escalation. In response to the evolving situation, the Jaisalmer District Collector issued a fresh set of stringent security guidelines. Drone operations have been completely banned in the district from May 8 to July 7, and all drone owners have been instructed to immediately deposit their equipment at local police stations. The sale, purchase, and use of firecrackers have also been prohibited, with immediate closure orders issued for all firecracker shops. Pakistan attacks in Bikaner and Jaisalmer neutralised A strict blackout will be enforced daily from 9 pm to 6 am, during which all lights must remain off and windows covered. Vehicular movement will be restricted after 6 pm, and no entry will be allowed within a 5-kilometre radius of defence installations. The Ramgarh-Tanot road will remain completely closed to traffic after 3 pm, and all markets must shut by 5 pm. Residents have been advised not to leave their homes after 7 pm. Additional deployments of army and police personnel have been made in densely populated areas like Kishanghat to ensure public safety. Despite the growing sense of uncertainty, Indian defence systems successfully neutralised several incoming threats on the intervening night of Thursday and Friday. Reports confirm that multiple aerial drones and bombs from across the border were intercepted and defused mid-air, preventing casualties and major damage. To further strengthen ground-level coordination, the Rajasthan government has transferred nine Sub-Divisional Officers (SDOs) to previously vacant administrative subdivisions along the border. As a precautionary measure, the train running between Barmer to Munabao and Bhagat Ki Kothi to Munabao was cancelled on Friday. Due to the drone attacks, the railways cancelled the Jaipur-Jaisalmer train on Thursday and the Jaisalmer-Jaipur train on Friday between Bikaner and Jaisalmer. It operated only from Jaipur to Bikaner. Amid Pakistan's repeated attempts to attack military bases in Rajasthan, the railways decided to cancel the operation of many trains on Friday. As a result, trains going towards Barmer and Jaisalmer will be affected. Srinagar airport under drone attack, blasts heard North Western Railway CPRO Shashi Kiran said that four trains have been completely cancelled amid a blackout and an emergency on the border, while two trains will be partially cancelled. Apart from this, five trains have been rescheduled, and 3 trains have been regulated. In a related move, the Indian Premier League (IPL) match scheduled in Jaipur has been cancelled, following a cancellation in Dharamshala . Meanwhile, Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma chaired a high-level law and order review meeting for the second consecutive day on Friday, with Deputy Chief Ministers Diya Kumari and Premchand Bairwa, along with several cabinet ministers and senior officials, in attendance. Earlier the same day, Sharma had convened an emergency meeting at the Chief Ministers Office (CMO) to assess the overall security scenario and direct administrative responses. 'Deranged fantasy': MEA shuts down claims by Pakistan that Indian forces attacked their own cities

'Bomb-like' object recovered in Jaisalmer's Kishanghat area after Thursday's cross-border firing

JAIPUR: A bomb-like object was found in the Kishanghat area of Rajasthan's Jaisalmer district on Friday morning, prompting swift action by the local police and air force. According to the police, the object was found near a nursery in the colony of the Jogis, located in front of Kishanghat under the Kotwali police station area. Kotwali SHO Prem Daan said it seems to be a bomb-like object. Experts from the army are on their way Kishanghat to defuse it. It it currently not known if it is live or destroyed, he said. VIDEO | Rajasthan: Debris of unidentified object found in Jaisalmer's Kishan Ghat area. Security personnel at the spot. More details awaited. (Full video available on PTI Videos - https://t.co/n147TvqRQz ) #Rajasthan pic.twitter.com/aGVD2gBSIt Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) May 9, 2025 Arjun Nath, a local, spotted the object and immediately informed Kishanghat Sarpanch representative Kalyan Ram, who then alerted authorities. Following this, teams from the local police and the Indian Air Force arrived at the scene, they said. The area has been cordoned off as a precautionary measure and further investigation is underway. The object resembled parts of a drone that was launched by Pakistan on Jaisalmer on Thursday night around 10.30 pm. However, official confirmation is awaited. Authorities have urged residents to remain calm and follow safety instructions as security measures have been intensified in the region. Notably, on Thursday night India swiftly thwarted Pakistan's fresh attempts to strike military sites with drones and missiles, including in Jammu, Pathankot and Udhampur, after foiling its attempts to target military installations in 15 cities in the northern and western parts of the country. According to the defence ministry, the Pakistani military on Thursday night attempted to target Awantipura, Srinagar, Jammu, Pathankot, Amritsar, Kapurthala, Jalandhar, Ludhiana, Adampur, Bathinda, Chandigarh, Nal, Phalodi, Uttarlai and Bhuj.

Pakistan attacks in Bikaner and Jaisalmer neutralised

JAIPUR: Amid deepening military escalation between India and Pakistan, blackouts were enforced in all the border districts across western Rajasthan on Thursday night amid unconfirmed reports that Pakistan launched a volley of missiles targetting border regions of Bikaner and Jaisalmer. Residents, too, reported attempted drone and missile attacks by Pakistan which were successfully neutralised by the Indian forces. An air of deep anxiety prevails in western Rajasthan with high intensity sounds and flashes of light piercing the night sky being reported by border residents. There is no official confirmation of these reports, as local authorities have not confirmed such incidents. While the BSF has been given shoot at sight orders to ensure no enemy movement, the CM Bhajan Lal Sharma held a high level meeting with senior ministers, bureaucrats and police officers, to assess the latest situation at the border areas. Earlier in the day, Indias air defences successfully neutralised multiple Pakistan missiles aimed at three key locations in Rajasthan Nal (Bikaner), Phalodi, and Uttarlai (Barmer) among 15 targeted cities, in the wee hours of Thursday. All three locations host significant military installations in the desert region of western Rajasthan, which shares the longest stretch of border with the neighbouring country. In response to rising tensions, the Pakistan Air Force has reportedly deployed F-16s, JF-17s, and other aircraft near the Rajasthan border. Precautionary measures have been swiftly implemented across the state. Authorities have restricted civilian movement near the Jawai Dam in Pali district, and high-alert guidelines have been issued to all border districts. The entire 1,070-km international border with Pakistan has been sealed, and air defence systems have been activated in major cities. There are also reports of heavy presence of Pakistan troops in villages near the border. Fighter jets have been conducting regular sorties day and night from over five airbases in the western sector. Bomb threat prompts stadium evacuation In Jaipur, a bomb threat via email led to evacuation of the Sawai Mansingh Stadium. The stadium, which hosts IPL matches in the state, was immediately cleared of staff and spectators. A large police force was deployed as security teams held extensive searches nothing was found.

Rajasthan: Sounds of siren in Jaisalmer, explosions heard as state on high alert

Jaipur: Amid escalating tensions between India and Pakistan, explosions were reportedly heard in Jaisalmer while sounds of sirens echoed across the region on Thursday, prompting a swift response by the administration. Residents also observed bright flashes of light in the night sky, intensifying concerns. It needs to be mentioned here that Rajasthan remains on high 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 .

Rajasthan: Schools shut in five border districts; leaves cancelled, blackouts enforced

Jaipur: The Rajasthan government has cancelled administrative and police personnels leaves deployed near the International Border and closed schools in five districts amid heightened tension between India and Pakistan following Operation Sindoor. The leaves of all medical, nursing and paramedical staffers have been cancelled in order to deal with any emergency situation with state health []

IPL 2025: Jaipur Stadium Receives Bomb Threat Ahead of RR-PBKS Clash

Rajasthan Sports Council president Neeraj K Pawan said they received an e-mail on Thursday morning, threatening to blast the Sawai Man Singh stadium

Eden Gardens, Sawai Man Singh stadium get bomb threat ahead of IPL matches

Jaipur: After Kolkatas Eden Gardens, the Sawai Man Singh stadium in Jaipur on Thursday, May 8, received a bomb threat e-mail, prompting the security agencies to launch a search operation, officials said. Rajasthan Sports Council president Neeraj K Pawan said they received an e-mail on Thursday morning threatening to blast the Sawai Man Singh stadium 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 searches 11 locations in Guj, Raj in alleged corruption case against IRS officer Santosh Karnani

NEW DELHI, May 8: The CBI on Thursday conducted searches at 11 locations in Gujarat and Rajasthan in connection with an alleged corruption case against 2005-batch IRS officer Santosh Karnani, officials said. The agency conducted the searches on 11 premises linked to Karnani, his associates and family members in Gandhinagar, Ahemdabad and Jaipur, they said. The CBI booked Karnani and his wife under the Prevention of Corruption Act for allegedly amassing assets disproportionate to his known sources of income, the [] The post CBI searches 11 locations in Guj, Raj in alleged corruption case against IRS officer Santosh Karnani appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Nagpur flight to Kishangarh diverted to Jaipur due to airport closure

Blue the doors off fashion: Blurus designers pick their favourite and not-so-favourite looks from Met Gala 25

Often called the biggest night in fashion, the Met Gala brings the whos who of the fashion world to New York to raise money for The Metropolitan Museum of Arts (MOMA) Costume Institute. With tickets rumoured to cost around $75,000 and payment not ensuring an invite, it is one of the most exclusive events. After all, where else can designers unleash their outrageous levels of creativity and have a rapt audience ready to praise (or tear down) their looks but the (now) blue carpet? Manish Malhotra at Met Gala '25 Theme Themed Superfine: Tailoring Black Style, inspired by Monica L Millers book Slaves to Fashion: Black Dandyism and the Styling of Black Diasporic Identity, the event complements the new MOMA exhibit focused on the same. Black dandyism, a style adopted by Black Americans following the abolition of slavery, combined black culture with elements of European fashion. The ethos behind the theme is wanting to be seen as charming, respectable, and dignified and give yourself reasons to feel joy. The theme is very relevant as it speaks of the bespoke tailoring of the black community in the 18th and 19th centuries. The fashion of the time has come out of rebellion, explains Sounak Sen Barat, founder of bespoke fashion brand House of Three. Janelle Monae Best Dressed On theme, the carpet saw structured silhouettes, collars, capes, and more. Zoe Saldana and Mindy Kalings looks bring out black dandyism at its best. Even though Saldanas is a very masculine cut, theres a very feminine corset element which is beautifully blended. The same with Kaling very structured and sharp, says designer Raj Shroff. Sarika Pawar, founder of the designer label, House of Soi, picks Zendayas look as her favourite, despite some noting its similarity to Anna Sawais, saying, The designers took it a notch forward, especially with the limited theme compared to previous years where you could wear a lot of bounce and fluff. I loved Zendayas hat and the tailored, white look. Barat notes that black celebrities, like Tyla, Rihanna, and Doechii, in particular, took it to the next level. Pointing out Janelle Monaes Thom Browne suit, he says, Its a crazy avant-garde take on a classic bespoke suit that is very androgynous with a constructed jacket and exaggerated shoulders to give a sense of power,. He adds, All the black people at the Met Gala wore the theme with a certain pride because these are stories of their forefathers. That sense of belonging was missing from the Indian diaspora who could have drawn from Indias colonial struggles and made the theme their own. Diljit Dosanjh Indian Entourage This year saw Indians like Diljit Dosanjh, Priyanka Chopra, Kiara Advani, Isha Ambani, Mona Patel. Shah Rukh Khan made his debut sporting a black Sabyasachi outfit with a K necklace, inspiring conflicting opinions. Pawar was a fan of the look, saying, Its nice to see him in something so different. Hes never been so casual about jewellery the pendant, rings, jacket I just love the whole thing. However, Shroff disagrees, saying, Khan was the biggest letdown and I was a bit shocked when I saw that K hanging there, it was such a disaster. While both Khan and Dosanjh, in his full white sherwani featuring Gurmukhi, were criticised for not being on theme, Shroff notes the cultural significance of the latters outfit, saying, Among the men, Diljit was amazing he showed what Jaipur dandyism is and thats what you need to do on a platform when youre representing your country. Kiara Advani, who showed off her baby bump in a Gaurav Gupta gown, and Manish Malhotras self-designed ensemble with a majestic floor-length jacket, are the founder of Mysore Fashion Week, Jayanthi Ballals, favourites. The black with the gold was neatly placed and looked elegant on her. Malhotras outfit with small animal motifs was very nice, she says. Malhotras creation for Natasha Poonawala and Ambanis Anamika Khanna-designed outfit stood out for using Indian handloom textiles, while Thom Brownes piece for Patel has taken social media by storm. Patels look was apt for the theme and her AI robotic dog have created a buzz on social media, says Shroff, adding, Poonawalas gown was made of Parsi gara and the craftsmanship is amazing and indigenous to our country, its beautiful to see it represented on a global stage. Ambani, too, wore Indian handloom fabric embroidered with gemstones.

Is a Grade Worth a Life?

by Syed Zeeshan Jaipuri This crisis will not be resolved through reactive measures after suicides occur. It demands a cultural reconstruction of how Kashmir defines success, childhood, and education. As war looms overhead and uncertainty drapes itself over the valley like a second skin, the results of Class 10 and 12 examinations were declared in [] The post Is a Grade Worth a Life? appeared first on Kashmir Life .

Heatwave And Asthma: How Rising Temperatures Trigger Severe Breathing Issues and What You Can Do To Stay Safe- EXPLAINED

Suffering from asthma? Here is how extreme heatwave can trigger severe breathing problems in asthma patients, and what one should do to stay safe - explained by Dr Vikas Pilaniya, Manipal Hospital, Jaipur.

Entire country stands by govt in wake of Pahalgam attack: Gehlot

Jaipur: Former Rajasthan chief minister Ashok Gehlot has said that the entire country is standing by the government in the wake of the Pahalgam terror attack. The veteran Congress leader also said Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Defence Minister Rajnath Singh should have complete freedom over the decisions that need to be taken in 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 .

CTTIK president meets Union Tourism Minister

Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, May 5: During the ongoing Great Indian Travel Bazaar (GITB) in Jaipur, the president of the Chamber of Tourism and Trade Industry Katra (CTTIK), Raj Kumar Padha, met with the Union Minister of Tourism, Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, to discuss the current situation in Jammu & Kashmir, particularly in light of the recent terrorist attack in Pahalgam. Padha conveyed the deep concerns of tourism stakeholders regarding the impact of the incident on the regions travel and pilgrimage sectors. [] The post CTTIK president meets Union Tourism Minister appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Rajasthan Police bust gang involved in NEET cheating, arrest five

Jaipur: Jaipur Police have arrested five members of a gang involved in cheating during the NEET UG 2025 examination by using dummy candidates and unfair means. The arrests were made following a raid at a flat in ABD Pristine Apartments located in Jagdamba Nagar, Karni Vihar, based on a tip-off, said officials on Monday. 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 .

Court to decide on Patels punishment, says Rajasthan Assembly Speaker

Court to decide on Patels punishment, says Rajasthan Assembly Speaker Jaipur: As Bagidora MLA Jaikrishna Patel of the Bharat Adivasi Party (BAP) was arrested red-handed by the Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) while allegedly accepting a Rs 20 lakh bribe, questions about the future of his Assembly membership are circulating widely in political circles. Patel had reportedly [] The post Court to decide on Patels punishment, says Rajasthan Assembly Speaker appeared first on Mangalorean.com .

Jaipur Diary | Girija Vyas death brings Gehlot, Raje together

Udaipur saw a rare political spectacle last Friday as top leaders gathered to pay tribute to veteran Congress leader Girija Vyas. But it wasnt just the condolences that grabbed headlines - it was the unexpected sight of arch-rivals Ashok Gehlot and Vasundhara Raje Scindia sharing the VIP lounge at the airport. The two former CMs, rarely seen together in public, stood side by side, prompting raised eyebrows and hushed chatter. Congress state president Govind Singh Dotasra and LoP Tikaram Jully were also present, but the Gehlot-Raje frame stole the show. Clearly, the death of Girija Vyas, considered one of Rajasthans most graceful leaders, managed to conjure a gracious togetherness rapidly disappearing in Indian politics. MLA caught red-handed with bribe money In a sensational first in Rajasthan politics, the Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) arrested Banswara MLA Jaikrishna Patel red-handed while accepting a bribe. The Bharat Adivasi Party leader allegedly demanded a whopping `2.5 crore to withdraw questions he raised in the Assembly about the mining department. The deal was reportedly finalised at his official residence in Jaipur. When a trap was laid, his gunman was caught collecting `20 lakh on his behalf. But heres the clincher: according to the ACB DG, Patels hands turned colour when washed, confirming contact with the tainted cash. We have video proof of him handling the money, ACB said. Katha storytellers eventful Jaipur visit Storyteller Pradeep Mishra made waves in Jaipur after he abruptly halted his seven-day Katha on Day 3, blaming lack of support from the administration unlike in Uttar Pradesh. A meeting with top officials, including the Collector and Police Commissioner, followed. Soon, Mishra released a video saying the katha would resume, and photos of him with CM Bhajanlal Sharma and MLA Balmukund Acharya surfaced, adding a political twist. Earlier, Mishra had sparked backlash by telling girls to avoid showing their navels, comparing it to a dying Tulsi plant. Days ago, he raised eyebrows by likening Amit Shah to Lord Shiva. Spiritual discourses to controversies - Mishras Jaipur visit had it all. Rajesh Asnani Our correspondent in Jaipur rajesh.asnani@newindianexpress.com

3 detained in Rajasthan for selling NEET paper for Rs 40 lakh

Jaipur: Three men were detained by the Special Operations Group of Rajasthan Police for allegedly trying to dupe a NEET candidate of Rs 40 lakh by promising him the question paper, an officer on Sunday said. The accused were identified as Balwan, 27, Mukesh Meena, 40, and Hardas, 38, according to police. Also ReadNEET UG 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 .

Sariska Tiger Reserve: A maharani recognised

An upcoming memorial to a tigress for singularly repopulating the Sariska Tiger Reserve in Rajasthan is a first of its kind, but it also raises questions about proper conservation efforts. Rakhee Roytalukdar reports Rajasthan is synonymous with Rajmatas (Queen mothers), whose beauty, enduring grace and intellect have charmed generations for long. Be it Rajmata Gayatri Devi of Jaipur, Rajmata Krishna Kumari of Jodhpur, Rajmata Sushila Kumari of Bikaner and others. These queens broke barriers, opened schools for girls and stood [] The post Sariska Tiger Reserve: A maharani recognised appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Jaipur police detain four activists trying to save Dol Ka Baadh forest

JAIPUR: Tension gripped Jaipur on Saturday as police detained four individuals, two student protesters and two environmental activists, during a demonstration against tree-cutting in the Dol Ka Baadh forest. Among those taken into custody was Ashutosh Ranka, a leading face of the Save Dol Ka Baadh campaign to save a vital green lung on the outskirts of Rajasthan's capital city. The detentions came shortly after labourers and machinery sent by the Rajasthan government arrived to begin forest clearing for a controversial government-backed construction project. Activists claim the state government plans to remove nearly 100 acres of dense forest to construct the Prime Ministers Unity Mall, a project being advanced under the name of tribal welfare. The land is also slated for other structures, including a Rajasthan Mandapam, residential complexes, and a revived Fintech Park. Dol Ka Baadh, which has evolved into a thriving forest over the last thirty years, is considered a critical ecological buffer for South Jaipur. The area contains over 2,400 fully grown trees, dozens of medicinal herb species, and native wildlife, making it a rare urban green zone. Locals often refer to it as the regions green lungs. The lands legal history has been fraught with controversy. In 1979, 105 acres in Dol Ka Baadh were officially notified for industrial development. By 1988, the Rajasthan State Industrial Development and Investment Corporation (RIICO) had allotted the land to the Diamond and Gem Development Corporation Limited to develop a Gem Industrial Estate. However, the company failed to initiate construction within the stipulated timeframe, leading RIICO to cancel the allotment in 1996. A year later, the company challenged this decision in the Rajasthan High Court and temporarily regained control of the land. But in 2013, the Supreme Court overturned the High Court ruling, restoring ownership to RIICO, a move seen as pivotal in shaping the areas current legal standing. This is not the first time the forest has faced developmental threats. In 2021, plans by the then-Congress government to build a Fintech Park triggered massive opposition, leading to a citywide Save Dol Ka Baadh movement that included citizens, conservationists, and celebrities. Adding a political layer to the controversy is the fact that Dol Ka Baadh lies within the constituency of Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma. Critics point out that several BJP leaders, including current Deputy Chief Minister Diya Kumari, had previously called for the forests preservation when in opposition. Kumari once even proposed a biodiversity park on the same land. Further fueling criticism, Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently condemned forest destruction in Telangana for an IT Park, raising questions about the inconsistency of forest conservation policies when his name is now associated with a similar project in Rajasthan.

Southern Railway launches new train from Chennai to Jodhpur

CHENNAI: To cater to the growing demand for travel to Jodhpur and other parts of Rajasthan, Southern Railway is launching a new train service from Chennai to Bhagat Ki Kothi, located about 3.5 km from Jodhpur, a major tourist hub. The new service will operate five days a week and is expected to reduce the black-market sale of Rajasthan-bound tickets, which are often sold by travel agents allegedly at a premium of Rs 2,000 to Rs 3,000 above the regular fare. Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw will flag off the inaugural special train on Saturday. Regular operations will commence on May 5 from Chennai Central and May 7 from Bhagat Ki Kothi. Currently, Jodhpur is connected by a weekly train to four key destinations in Tamil Nadu Chennai Egmore, Tiruchy, Rameswaram and Coimbatore. However, many Rajasthan natives who migrated to Tamil Nadu 50-60 years ago and have since settled across the state face significant travel challenges due to the lack of a daily service. The Chennai-Jodhpur and Chennai-Jaipur routes frequently experience huge demand, especially during festivals and summer holidays, resulting in ticket shortage. A Uttam Kumar, a resident of Mannady, shared his experience: Due to the high demand, I used to send my staff to queue up from 6 am at the ticket counter to book Tatkal tickets to Jodhpur. During summer, I often paid travel agents an extra Rs 2,000 to Rs 3,000 for AC tickets. According to an official release, the new train will depart from Chennai Central at 7.45 pm on Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays, Fridays and Sundays, arriving at Bhagat Ki Kothi at 12.15 pm on the third day. In the return direction, it will leave Bhagat Ki Kothi at 5.30 am on Mondays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, Fridays and Sundays, reaching Chennai at 11.15 pm on the next day. The train will consist of the following coaches: 2 AC two-tier, 4 AC three-tier, 4 AC three-tier economy, 6 sleeper class, 4 general second-class, 1 second-class coach equipped for passengers with disabilities, and 1 luggage-cum-brake van. Nagercoil Vande Bharat to run with 20-car rake Chennai: To manage the extra rush, the railways has decided to augment the Chennai Egmore-Nagercoil Vande Bharat Express with four extra chair car coaches starting from May 8. Currently operating with a 16-coach rake, the train will be upgraded to a 20-coach configuration, according to a statement from the Railways.

AIIMS Jammu, BMVSS join hands to set up Jaipur Foot Centre for Divyangs

Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, May 2: AIIMS Jammu has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Bhagwan Mahaveer Viklang Sahayata Samiti (BMVSS), Jaipur the worlds largest organization providing artificial limbs and assistive devices free of cost to establish a permanent Jaipur Foot Centre at its premises. The MoU was signed in the presence of Prof (Dr) Shakti Kumar Gupta, Executive Director and CEO of AIIMS Jammu; Ambassador Satish Mehta, president of BMVSS; and other senior officials and faculty members. [] The post AIIMS Jammu, BMVSS join hands to set up Jaipur Foot Centre for Divyangs appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

23-year-old Surat teacher who eloped with 13-year-old student found 5 months preganant

AHMEDABAD: The case of a 23-year-old private tutor from Surat, Gujarat, who eloped with her 13-year-old student and was later found five months pregnant, has sent shockwaves across the country, raising urgent concerns about child safety in informal education settings. The scandal deepened after a medical examination revealed the womans pregnancy, and she claimed that the minor is the father, prompting authorities to order an immediate DNA test. The ordeal began on the afternoon of 25 April, when the teacher, previously a trusted figure in the boys life, vanished with the child in broad daylight, triggering panic and a swift search operation. CCTV footage from their residential society captured the teacher leaving with the boy, a sling bag over her shoulder, indicating premeditation. The teacher had been tutoring the boy for the past three years, and for the last year, he had become her only private student, a closeness that dangerously escalated over time. Police investigations revealed that the alleged sexual abuse took place at the tutors residence and later at a hotel in Vadodara while the pair was on the run. Before fleeing to Surat, the 13-year-old reportedly handed over a few of his clothes to the woman, who later purchased additional items for their escape. Surat teacher abducts 11-year-old student, caught 390 kilometres away after four-day manhunt The pair travelled across several cities-including Vadodara, Ahmedabad, Delhi, Jaipur, and Vrindavan-before being apprehended near the Gujarat-Rajasthan border after a four-day manhunt. Surat Deputy Commissioner of Police Bhagirath Gadhvi told The New Indian Express, A medical examination has revealed that the woman is five months pregnant. She has claimed that the minor is the father of the child. Based on her statement, we have ordered DNA testing. During questioning, both individuals admitted to having engaged in a physical relationship over several months. A formal case has been registered against the woman under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita for kidnapping a minor, alongside serious charges under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act for sexual exploitation. Senior officials have called the incident a grave breach of trust and power, warning of urgent gaps in protections across both formal and informal education spaces. Legal experts have also flagged the glaring ignorance around grooming tactics used by adults in positions of influence. The case remains under intense investigation, with further legal action pending the results of the court-ordered DNA test.

Photos: MI win by 100 runs to end RRs playoffs hopes

Jaipur: Mumbai Indians crushed Rajasthan Royals by 100 runs to end the home teams playoffs hopes in the Indian Premier League here on Thursday. Batting first, MI scored 217 for two. In reply, RR were all out for 117 in 16.1 overs as MI closed in on securing a playoffs berth. MI rode on brisk 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 .

3 flights diverted, over 200 delayed due to inclement weather in Delhi

New Delhi, May 2: Three flights were diverted and over 200 flights were delayed at the Delhi airport on Friday morning as thunderstorms and gusty winds disrupted operations. An official said two flights that were to land at the Delhi airport were diverted to Jaipur and one to Ahmedabad. More than 200 flights were delayed, [] The post 3 flights diverted, over 200 delayed due to inclement weather in Delhi appeared first on Northlines .

Three flights diverted, over 100 delayed due to inclement weather in Delhi

New Delhi: Three flights were diverted and over 100 flights were delayed at the Delhi airport on Friday morning as thunderstorms and gusty winds disrupted operations. An official said two flights that were to land at the Delhi airport were diverted to Jaipur and one to Ahmedabad. More than 100 flights were delayed, according to 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 .

Marauding Mumbai Indians make it six wins in a row, Royals out of playoffs race

JAIPUR, May 1: Mumbai Indians extended their remarkable winning streak to six matches with a 100-run rout of Rajasthan Royals in the Indian Premier League here on Thursday, pushing the home team out of the race for playoffs. Openers Rohit Sharma (53 off 36 balls) and Ryan Rickelton (61 off 38) struck sublime half-centuries before Suryakumar Yadav (48 not out off 23) and Hardik Pandya (48 not out off 23) went on the offensive to power Mumbai Indians to 217 [] The post Marauding Mumbai Indians make it six wins in a row, Royals out of playoffs race appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

MIs 100-run rout sends RR out of playoffs race

Jaipur, May 1: Mumbai Indians extended their remarkable winning streak to six matches with a 100-run rout of Rajasthan Royals in the Indian Premier League here on Thursday, pushing the home team out of the race for playoffs. Openers Rohit Sharma (53 off 36 balls) and Ryan Rickelton (61 off 38) struck sublime half-centuries before [] The post MIs 100-run rout sends RR out of playoffs race appeared first on The Shillong Times .

Rohit completes 6,000 runs for MI

Jaipur, May 1: Mumbai Indians batsman Rohit Sharma is now the second player to score more than 6000 runs for a single franchise in T20 cricket. Rohit reached this milestone during the IPL game between Mumbai Indians (MI) and Rajasthan Royals at the Sawai Mansingh Stadium in Jaipur on Thursday. Rohit Sharma is the highest [] The post Rohit completes 6,000 runs for MI appeared first on The Shillong Times .

Rohit Sharma, Rickelton take Mumbai Indians to 217/2

Jaipur: Openers Rohit Sharma and Ryan Rickelton struck sublime half-centuries to power Mumbai Indians to 217 for two in their Indian Premier League game against Rajasthan Royals in Jaipur Thursday. Expecting heavy dew, Royals put the opposition in, but Rohit (53 off 36 balls) and Rickelton (61 off 38) put the home team under pressure []

Relief for mother as infant Pakistani daughter allowed to stay amid deportation orders

JAIPUR: In a significant relief for an Indian mother, one-and-a-half-year-old Adarshni, a Pakistani citizen by birth, has been granted special permission to remain in India with her mother, Bhaur Rashmi. The decision comes in the wake of the recent terrorist attack in Pahalgam , which led the Indian government to issue an order mandating that all Pakistani citizens on short-term visas leave the country within 48 hours. This sudden directive placed Rashmi and her daughter in a deeply distressing situation. Rashmi, an Indian citizen by birth, had married Dhanpat Singh Sodha, a resident of Amarkot in Pakistan, three years ago. However, she never acquired Pakistani citizenship and continues to hold an Indian passport. Their daughter, Adarshni, born in Pakistan, is officially recognised as a Pakistani national. On April 3, 2025, Rashmi travelled to her parental home in Jaitsar in Rajasthan with her daughter. But following the government's deportation orders, Adarshni was suddenly prohibited from remaining in India, raising the alarming possibility that the toddler might be sent back to Pakistan alone. After urgent appeals and persistent efforts by the family, senior officials in the central government have finally intervened. Special permission has been granted for Adarshni to stay in India with her mother, lifting the immediate threat of separation and allowing the family to remain united. Sri Ganganagar Superintendent of Police, Gaurav Yadav, confirmed to the media that, as per instructions from higher authorities, the girl's family was informed of the required procedures. Following compliance, the girl is now safely residing with her mother in India. Meanwhile, the Union Ministry of Home Affairs has issued updated guidelines offering relief to Pakistani nationals residing in India on Long-Term Visas (LTVs). Under the revised directive, LTV holders are not required to leave the country, providing significant respite to many who are legally settled in India. In the last 7 days alone, more than 362 Pakistani nationals in Rajasthan have had their LTVs approved and formally registered. Officials also clarified that people whose LTV applications are still pending or under consideration are exempt from deportation for the time being. Notably, Pakistani Muslim women married to Indian citizens and residing in India on LTVs are also not being asked to return under the new rules. A large number of Pakistani refugees, particularly Hindus, have settled in Rajasthans border districts such as Jaisalmer, Barmer, and especially Jodhpur. Cross-border marriages are common in these areas, often leading to complex situations where families are split, with some members living in India and others either stuck in or being asked to return to Pakistan. In at least three to four documented cases, mothers and children hold citizenship from different countries, typically a result of birth circumstances, creating emotional and bureaucratic challenges. Many of these families continue to live in uncertainty, awaiting either a resolution or more comprehensive reforms to address their cross-border realities.

IPL 2025: Rohit Sharma scripts history for Mumbai Indians, joins Virat Kohli in unique list

Rohit achieved this milestone by scoring a fifty for the Mumbai Indians against the Rajasthan Royals at the Sawai Mansingh Stadium in Jaipur on Thursday, May 1.

IPL 2025: RR opt to bowl against Mumbai Indians

Jaipur: Rajasthan Royals stand-in skipper Riyan Parag won the toss and opted to bowl against Mumbai Indians in their IPL match here Thursday. RR made two changes with the injured Wanindu Hasaranga and Sandeep Sharma making way for Kumar Kartikeya and Akash Madhwal, while MI are unchanged. Hasaranga has a niggle, while Sandeep has broken []

Massive setback for Mumbai Indians as star player ruled out of IPL 2025 with injury, replacement announced

IPL 2025: Mumbai Indians are set to face the Rajasthan Royals in their upcoming match in Jaipur on Thursday.

IPL 2025 RR vs MI Key Players: From child prodigy Vaibhav Suryavanshi to Jasprit Bumrahs fiery formstars to watch in tonights clash

RR vs MI IPL 2025 Key Players: Rajasthan Royals will face Mumbai Indians in IPL 2025. Royals are relying on Vaibhav Suryavanshi's form. Mumbai Indians are on a five-match winning streak. Hardik Pandya leads MI, and Jasprit Bumrah is in top form. Suryakumar Yadav's batting adds strength. The match will be held at Sawai Mansingh Stadium in Jaipur. Both teams have key players ready for the contest.

Janhvi Kapoor Speaks Out On Jaipur Tragedy

The actress expressed profound grief over the incident and used her platform to highlight the alarming rise in accidents caused by intoxicated driving.

Four dead in Ajmer hotel fire; guests jump from windows to escape blaze

JAIPUR: Four people were killed after a fire broke out at a hotel in Diggi Bazaar area of Rajasthan's Ajmer on Thursday, officials said. Some of the guests at the five-storey hotel saved their lives by jumping from the windows. Fire incident occurred at a hotel in Diggi Bazaar area today morning. Police team is on the spot. Four people, including two men, a woman and a child, have died due to suffocation and burn injuries, JLN Medical College Principal Dr Anil Samaria said. Additional SP Himanshu Jangid said the narrow approach road to the hotel is hampering rescue work. The fire was apparently caused by a short circuit. A guest at the hotel said there was a sound of a blast after which he, along with his wife, ran out. A woman threw her child in my lap from a window. She also tried to jump off the building but we stopped her, Mangila Kalosia, who was staying at the hotel, said. He said a man also jumped from a window and sustained head injuries. Rajasthan: A major fire at Naaz Hotel in Ajmer's Diggi Bazaar claimed four lives and injured five, including a child. Caused by a suspected short circuit, the blaze triggered panic among guests. Rescue efforts were hampered by narrow lanes, with fire brigade and police personnel pic.twitter.com/bqghSnggkw IANS (@ians_india) May 1, 2025

Dancing Against Odds

When art often mirrors society in its purest form, change towards a better world is not a dream so far away. For Jainil Mehta, a renowned dancer and choreographer, dance as a form is a powerful tool to reflect on society and explore themes like community and identity through simple yet powerful narratives. Known for his revolutionary #meninskirts [dance] movement showing him dancing in the streets of New York wearing a skirt (which took social media by storm), Mehta is ready to set the stage on fire with his new dance production, Sam-Aaj. Sam-Aaj is a culmination of two words that correlate to the characters Samir (played by Mehta) and Miraaj (played by Shubham Mahawar). Sam-Aaj is broken up into two words sam as in balance and aaj meaning today, which talks about how we change over time as individuals; we grow as individuals, we grow in relationships and sometimes we grow out of relationships. This change is inevitable, he reveals. Blending poetry, music, movements and a story, Sam-Aaj is more than a mere dance performance but a dance narrative. Art is boundless, it includes all points of view, from religious, political, social, and psychological perspectives. I have interacted with so many people: my family, my friends and from their experiences, I have built this beautiful story. From his early childhood days when he used to dance, wrapping his mothers saree, to now, Mehta has come a long way. When I was a child, I used to steal moms clothes, lock myself up in the room and dance. That came alive when I was around 20 [when the #meninskirts video went viral in 2022]. I always loved the flair and grace of skirts and the fabric so I wanted to use it in my dance. Suddenly, it blew up, Mehta shares, recounting his #meninskirts movement. According to Mehta, the movement helped him embrace his imperfections and boldness, eventually leading to the creation of Sam-Aaj. Dancer Jainil Mehta With the performance, Mehta hopes to deliver a warm feeling to the audience. I wanted to leave people with a cosy feeling and I want to talk about finding balance in our everyday lives, he confides. He also hopes to convey a simple message on love and acceptance. The touring journey so far has been anything but smooth with disruption from conservative forces. We had a protest from RSS organisations in Jaipur, saying that it [the theme of the production] is not a part of the Indian value system and the sanskriti of India, so the theatre had to cancel, he reveals, adding, But we did perform at the Jaipur Jantar Hostel. The response has been absolutely positive. Despite these challenges, he hopes Bengaluru will embrace the production. Bengaluru is an experimental hub for art, Im hoping that the audience welcomes us with open arms, he concludes. (Sam-Aaj will be held on May 3 at Medai-The Stage, Koramangala, at 7.30pm. Tickets, priced at 699, allevents.in)

Revitalised Royals look to halt MIs charge

JAIPUR, Apr 30: Rajasthan Royals will turn up against Mumbai Indians with renewed vigour as they aim to halt the five-time champions surging momentum in the Indian Premier League here on Thursday. With 14-year-old Vaibhav Suryavanshi potentially playing the knock of the tournament on Monday, the Royals have found a ray of hope in what has been an IPL campaign of missed opportunities. The hosts still have a mathematical chance of making the play-offs but deep down the management has [] The post Revitalised Royals look to halt MIs charge appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Rajasthan to join Indias first cheetah conservation corridor with Madhya Pradesh

JAIPUR: Rajasthan is all set to become a part of Indias first cheetah reintroduction project, currently operational in Madhya Pradesh. A wildlife corridor spanning 17,000 square kilometers will be developed across both states, allowing cheetahs to roam freely in a protected and connected habitat. The corridor will link Palpur Kuno National Park and Gandhi Sagar Sanctuary in Madhya Pradesh with the Mukundara Hills Tiger Reserve in Rajasthan. As part of the plan, seven districts in Rajasthan Kota, Bundi, Baran, Jhalawar, Sawai Madhopur, Karauli, and Chittorgarh will be integrated into the project. Speaking in Jaipur on Tuesday, Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav emphasised the success of the cheetah project, describing it as a unique initiative in Asia. It is a matter of pride that cheetahs are thriving here. This is among the most successful wildlife conservation efforts globally, he said. Yadav also stated that the project would now move forward in collaboration with Rajasthan. Highlighting past joint efforts, the MP Chief Minister recalled the Parvati-Kalisindh-Chambal river linking project, inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. We are confident that both states will progress together on this project under the leadership of the Prime Minister, he added. According to the action plan released by the National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA), the Wildlife Institute of India (WII) has designated the Kuno-Gandhi Sagar landscape as a suitable cheetah habitat. Of the total corridor area, 10,500 square kilometers fall within Madhya Pradesh, while 6,500 square kilometers are in Rajasthan. The corridor will enable cheetahs to move from Kuno National Park through the Mukundara Hills Reserve in Rajasthan to Gandhi Sagar. Discussions are also underway to include parts of Uttar Pradesh, specifically the forest areas of Jhansi and Lalitpur, within the extended landscape. An official Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan is in the pipeline. The proposal has reached the Chief Ministers of both states and is awaiting final approval. During his visit to Jaipur, CM Mohan Yadav met with Rajasthan Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma. Sources suggest that discussions on the cheetah corridor were held, and the signing of the MoU is expected soon.

Eight die in Rajasthans Alwar after consuming toxic liquor

Jaipur: At least eight people have died in Rajasthans Alwar district in three days after consuming illicit, toxic liquor. The first death was reported April 26, followed by seven more over the next two days. All victims were residents of Paintpur and Kishanpur villages, aged between 39 and 65 years. Villagers allege that illicit liquor []

Faulty AC turns Air India flight's cabin into sauna, passenger falls sick, plane forced to make emergency return

A Pune-to-Jaipur Air India Express flight was forced to abort take-off on Tuesday evening after a female passenger became unwell in the sweltering cabin. With air conditioning malfunctioning, over 150 passengers endured nearly two hours inside the grounded aircraft before being deboarded. The airline confirmed the medical incident and technical fault, issuing refunds and alternative bookings to affected travellers. Flyers described the cabin as extremely stuffy, with some allowed to wait on the aerobridge during the ordeal.

RR star Vaibhav Suryavanshi studies in this class, his school name is...

Rajasthan Royals (RR) star batter Vaibhav Suryavanshi smashed a sensational century against Gujarat Titans at the Sawai Mansingh Stadium, Jaipur. However, along with cricket, the 14-year-old is equally focused to his studies. Let's find out in which school he studies and in which class

Stories from Attari border

CHANDIGARH/BHOPAL/JAIPUR/RAIPUR: The stalemate over visa cancellations post-Pahalgam attack ended on Tuesday, with 70 Pakistan national women possessing long-term visas and No Obligation to Return to India (NORI) certificates permitted to cross over into India at the Integrated Check Post (ICP) at the Attari border. Initially, the Centre revoked all visas issued to Pakistan nationals visiting India. As a result, spouses of Indian citizens with Pakistani passports faced an emotional situation; those currently visiting or residing in India had to return to Pakistan, leaving their children behind if the latter were Indian citizens. Indian nationals currently visiting Pakistan could return to India but not with their children if the latter held Pakistan passports. However, the Centre revised the visa guidelines allowing those on Long-Term Visas to stay in the country. So, on Tuesday, Pakistani immigration authorities allowed women holding Pakistani passports and married to Indian nationals and having NORI certificates and long-term visas to cross over to India, sources said. In total, 240 people from Pakistan, including more than 70 NORI visa holders, entered India, and 140 people from India returned to Pakistan via the Attari border. Saba Kiran, a Pakistani national married in India, bids goodbye to her daughter as she is being deported to her country through the Integrated Check Post (ICP) at the Attari-Wagah border, near Amritsar, Tuesday, April 29, 2025. Vignettes from Attari Family members waiting at the border post were relieved after the decision. Dr Vikram Udasi, from Jalgaon, Maharashtra, had been waiting at the Attari border since April 25 to receive his wife Priya, a Pakistani national, and child Ahan, who were in Pakistan visiting family. They were reunited after both crossed over. Finally, after the long wait, I have met my wife and child, and now we are returning to our home town. She has been on a Long-Term Visa for the past eight years, which is valid until 2026, he said. A Pakistan national, and his family members wait to cross over to their country Rishi Kumar from Kolhapur in Maharashtra, was equally happy. He was waiting for his wife and children at the Attari border for the last few days. His wife hails from Balochistan, a Pakistani national, while her two children are Indians. The three went to Pakistan to visit family. She was ultimately allowed to return to India along with her children. Edge of uncertainty In Madhya Pradesh, the fate of nine children with Pakistani passports and short-term visas hangs in balance. The state government has sought the Centres advice on nine children born to Pakistani fathers and Indian mothers, who are now with their mothers. The kids are between one year and 11 years of age. Four, aged between four and seven, are with their mother in their maternal home Indore, three others in Jabalpur and two in Bhopal. Komal, right, from Rajasthan gets emotional as her brother and sister-in-law leave for their home country Pakistan through Attari-Wagah border check-post following curbs imposed in the wake of Pahalgam terror attack, near Amritsar, Tuesday, April 29, 2025. In the Jabalpur case, the mother brought the children on short-term visas last month because of financial difficulties, as their father was unemployed in Pakistan. There were 14 Pakistani nationals in MP, including the nine children with their Indian mothers in Indore, Bhopal and Jabalpur. Also, a young man (from the Sindhi community) was on a short-term visa in Bhopal. He had applied for a long-term visa just a few hours before the Centre ordered the revoking of 14 categories of visas and asked those Pakistani nationals to leave India by April 27. Weve sought the central governments advice and guidance in all these cases of the 10 Pakistani nationals, including the nine kids, a senior state police officer told this newspaper on Tuesday. Pakistani woman gets emotional while leaving for Pakistan as her husband is barred. Three of the 14 Pakistani nationals who had to leave the country by April 27 have already left and crossed the international border into Pakistan. In the case of a six-year-old kid, a Pakistani national, who had come with the Indian mother to the maternal grandparents place in Indore, the matter of both going to Pakistan is reportedly being looked into by the Foreigners Registration Office in Delhi. The Centre revoked the 14 categories of visas on April 25 in the wake of the ghastly April 22 Pahalgam terror attack, and Pakistan nationals who were in India on such visas were asked to leave the country by April 27. In a communication to all state governments, the Union Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), however, added that the order would not apply to Long-Term Visa (LTV) holders besides diplomatic and official visa holders Pakistani nationals. Who stay, who dont In Rajasthan, security agencies have deported 129 of the 400 Pakistani nationals residing in the state. According to official sources, 109 individuals were sent back by April 27, and an additional 20 were deported on April 28. However, several others currently remain untraceable, and efforts are underway to locate them. In a parallel development, after the Centre said in an updated directive that Long-Term Visa holders are not required to leave the country, 362 Pakistan nationals in Rajasthan have had their LTVs approved and formally registered in the last three days. Officials clarified that applicants whose LTV cases are pending or under consideration are exempt from deportation. Radha, right, a Pakistani national who was living in Jammu & Kashmir, with her relative as she is being deported to her country through the Integrated Check Post (ICP) at the Attari-Wagah border, near Amritsar, Tuesday, April 29, 2025. Notably, Pakistani Muslim women married to Indian citizens and residing in India on LTVs are also not being asked to return to Pakistan under the revised rules. A significant number of Pakistani refugees, especially Hindus, have settled in the border districts of Rajasthan, including Jaisalmer, Barmer, and particularly Jodhpur. In many cases, families have been split due to cross-border marriageswhere one half of the family is in India while the other remains in Pakistan or faces pressure to return. In at least three to four reported instances, mothers hold passports from one country, while their children have obtained citizenship in another, typically due to birth circumstances. These families now face the emotional and logistical burden of separation until new regulations are introduced or the situation stabilises. Fate of a few In Chhattisgarh, the Raigarh police have arrested two Pakistani citizens who acquired Indian voter identity cards through fraudulent means and by providing fake information. The district police said Iftekhar Sheikh (29) and Armish Sheikh (25) are brother and sister. The duo stayed in the Kodatarai area of Raigarh district, about 230 km east of Raipur. Additional SP (Raigarh) told this newspaper, Their father, Yakub Sheikh, is Indian and stays in Raigarh. He married a Pakistani woman who died during the Covid-19 pandemic. The two children were born in Pakistan but were raised and schooled in India. appu Kumar, a Pakistani national who was living in Jammu & Kashmir, shows a copy of his identification card as he is being deported to his country through the Integrated Check Post (ICP) at the Attari-Wagah border, near Amritsar, Tuesday, April 29, 2025. Both are here on valid Long-Term Visas, and, at present, they cant be deported. But they furnished wrong information and procured Indian voter ID cards, following which a case has been registered against them. The police had launched a drive to ensure no Pakistan nationals were found staying illegally in the district, and both the Pakistan nationals were traced during the intensive verification campaign, said Jutemill police station in-charge Prashant Rao. The police have registered the case against both under sections 199, 200 (false statement made in declaration), 419 (cheating by impersonation), 467 (forgery of valuable security, will), 468 (forgery to cheat) and 34 (common intention) of the IPC. Fate of nine children in MP hangs on the edge In Madhya Pradesh, the fate of nine children with Pakistani passports and short-term visas hangs in balance. The state government has sought the Centres advice on nine children born to Pakistani fathers and Indian mothers, who are now with their mothers. The kids are between one year and 11 years of age. Four, aged between four and seven, are with their mother in their maternal home Indore. 362 Pak nationals in Raj get LTVs approved in 3 days After the Union government said in an updated directive that Long-Term Visa holders are not required to leave the country, 362 Pakistan nationals in Rajasthan have had their Long-Term Visas approved and formally registered in the last three days. Officials clarified that applicants whose LTV cases are pending or under consideration are exempt from deportation.

129 Pakistani nationals deported from Rajasthan, search underway for missing individuals

JAIPUR: Following the recent terror attack in Pahalgam, security agencies have deported 129 of the 400 Pakistani nationals residing in Rajasthan. According to official sources, 109 individuals were sent back by April 27, and an additional 20 were deported on April 28. However, several others are currently untraceable, and efforts are going on to locate them. In a parallel development, the Union Ministry of Home Affairs has issued new guidelines offering relief to Pakistani nationals living in India on Long Term Visas (LTVs). As per the updated directive, LTV holders are not required to leave the country, providing significant respite to many individuals residing in India legally. Over the past three days, 362 Pakistani nationals in Rajasthan have had their LTVs approved and formally registered. Officials have clarified that applicants whose LTV cases are pending or under consideration are also exempt from deportation. Notably, Pakistani Muslim women married to Indian citizens and residing in India on LTVs are also not being asked to return to Pakistan under the revised rules. A significant number of Pakistani refugees, especially Hindus, have settled in the border districts of Rajasthan, including Jaisalmer, Barmer, and particularly Jodhpur. In many cases, families have been split due to cross-border marriageswhere one half of the family is in India while the other remains in Pakistan or faces pressure to return. In at least three to four reported instances, mothers hold passports from one country, while their children have obtained citizenship in another, typically due to birth circumstances. These families now face the emotional and logistical burden of separation until new regulations are introduced or the situation stabilizes.

Rajasthan, Haryana to gain from diversion of Indus waters as plan to revive Saraswati River gets boost

JAIPUR: Following India's suspension of the Indus Water Treaty after the Pahalgam incident, water from the Sindhu, Ravi, Beas, and Sutlej rivers, currently flowing into Pakistan, may soon be redirected to benefit northern states like Rajasthan, Haryana, and Punjab. As part of this plan, efforts to revive the long-extinct Saraswati River in Rajasthan will also be expedited. In a significant development, Rajasthan and Haryana officials met scientists in Jaipur on Monday to discuss reviving the Saraswati river. A team from Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) and the Government of Denmark will map the river's ancient paleo channel to trace and restore its original flow. Once the flow route is identified, encroachments and other obstructions along the riverbed will be cleared. The Central Arid Zone Research Institute (CAZRI), Jodhpur, and IIT-BHU have also agreed to support the initiative. The meeting, held at the Birla Institute of Scientific Research in Jaipur, was organised by the Haryana Saraswati Heritage Development Board. Rajasthan Water Resources Minister Suresh Singh Rawat and HSHDB Vice President Dhuman Singh led detailed discussions on the project's roadmap. It was decided that Rajasthan would set up a dedicated social cell to create awareness and accelerate progress on the revival efforts. Speaking on the occasion, HSHDB vice-chairman Dhuman Singh said, The Saraswati river will become a lifeline for both Haryana and Rajasthan. Together, we will trace its flow and work towards its revival. Minister Rawat emphasised Rajasthan's proactive stance on inter-state water issues. The state government has already taken the initiative to revive the Saraswati river. Representatives from the Danish Embassy have requested the involvement of both Central and State Ground Water Departments to strengthen this important collaboration, he said. Notably, a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed between the Water Resources Department and the Danish Embassy during the Rajasthan Investment Summit held a few months ago. Denmark has pledged its support for the scientific revival of Saraswatis paleo channels and has called for deeper involvement of relevant groundwater authorities.

Bihar CM announces cash prize of Rs10 lakh for 14-year-old Suryavanshi after his historic century in IPL

PATNA: Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar on Tuesday announced a cash reward of Rs 10 lakh for 14-year-old Vaibhav Suryavanshi, who became the youngest ever player to score a century in the Indian Premier League (IPL). Playing for Rajasthan Royals in an ongoing IPL T20 match, Vaibhav stunned the crowd by scoring 101 runs in just 38 balls against Gujarat Titans. He reached his century in only 35 balls, marking the second-fastest ton in IPL history, and led his team to a memorable victory. The match was held at the Sawai Mansingh Stadium in Jaipur late on Monday, where Vaibhav smashed 11 sixes and seven fours during his extraordinary innings. Chief Minister Nitish Kumar congratulated the young cricketer over the phone and later shared his praise on social media. In a post on X, he wrote, Congratulations and best wishes to Mr Vaibhav Suryavanshi of Bihar, who became the youngest player (14 years) to score a century in the history of IPL. He has become a new hope for Indian cricket through his hard work and talent. Nitish also recalled meeting Vaibhav and his father in 2024. Everyone is proud of him. I met him and his father in 2024 at 1 Anne Marg, where I wished him a bright future, he added. He further said that he spoke with Vaibhav over the phone and encouraged him to set new records for the Indian team in future and bring glory to the country. Vaibhavs uncle, Rajiv Suryavanshi, said the teenager had brought laurels not only to the family but also to Bihar and the nation. We are pleased with his exceptional performance during Mondays match in Jaipur where he created history, he said. His cousin, Vishal Kumar, expressed joy after hearing about Vaibhavs stellar show. We hope he will soon be included in the Indian cricket team and play for India, he told this reporter over the phone on Tuesday. Earlier, Leader of Opposition in the Bihar Assembly Tejashwi Prasad Yadav and Union Minister and LJP (RV) chief Chirag Paswan also praised Vaibhavs talent. Such a magnificent start at such a young age. His future is extremely bright, said Chirag. The recognition and encouragement received by Vaibhav Suryavanshi for his exceptional talent is seen by many as an inspiration for young athletes in Bihar.

He Will Break Into India's T20 Squad In 1-2 Years: Childhood Coach On Vaibhav Suryavanshi

The left-handed batter smashed 11 sixes and seven fours in his stunning onslaught against Gujarat Titans' potent bowling attack to hand Rajasthan Royals an eight-wicket win in Jaipur.

Vlogger Discovers Unique 2D Homestay In Jaipur That Looks Straight Out Of A Sketchbook

The entire apartment is hand-drawn, giving a hyper-realistic 2D effect.

Rajasthan Education Department website hacked; message from 'Pakistan Cyber Force' displayed

JAIPUR: The official portal of Rajasthan's Education Department was targeted in a cyber attack on Tuesday that modified the portal's homepage to display a series of inflammatory messages under the name of 'Pakistan Cyber Force.' One of the messages claimed that the Pahalgam terror attack was orchestrated internally, calling it an 'inside job.' Another described the incident as a false flag by the Indian government, designed to incite conflict and religious division. The hackers also posted offensive comments about Himanshi Narwal, wife of the late Lieutenant Vinay Narwal, whose image sitting beside her husbands mortal remains were recently circulated widely on social media. Soon after the breach was discovered, the department's website was taken down. Education Minister Madan Dilawar condemning the Cyber Attack remarked, The IT wing of the Education Department has been activated. At present, the website has been temporarily shut down, and recovery efforts are underway at a rapid pace. We have also informed cybersecurity agencies about the incident. An investigation has been launched to identify the group responsible for the cyberattack and to assess the extent of the damage. So far, there is no confirmation of any sensitive data being leaked. However, a comprehensive audit of all systems is being conducted to ensure the security and integrity of our data, he further added. Experts Call for Urgent Cybersecurity Reforms Cyber experts have raised red flags over the ongoing misuse of government digital assets. They estimate that over 20 lakh pages linked to state departments across the country have been hijacked by cybercriminals. In Rajasthan alone, over 8 lakh such pages are believed to have been compromised, including several from the Home Department and district-level police units. With cyber threats becoming more sophisticated and frequent, experts stress the urgent need for robust digital security frameworks and better monitoring to protect government web infrastructure.

Rajasthan edu dept website hacked; attacker message alludes to 2019 Abhinandan capture

JAIPUR: (Apr 29) The Rajasthan education department website was hacked on Tuesday with a message mocking the Indian establishment over the 2019 capture of IAF officer Abhinandan Varthaman by Pakistan pasted on the portals homepage. The hackers also post objectionable content on the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack on the front page of the website. Soon after the cyber attack came to notice, Rajasthan Education Minister Madan Dilawar directed the IT wing of the department to restore the website at [] The post Rajasthan edu dept website hacked; attacker message alludes to 2019 Abhinandan capture appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Pakistani cybercriminals hack three websites of Rajasthan govt

Jaipur: Pakistani hackers targeted three Rajasthan government websites and defaced them with anti-India messages. The Pakistani cybercriminals targeted multiple government websites in Rajasthan, with the latest being the Education Departments official portal. On Tuesday, Rajasthan Education Minister Madan Dilawar took cognisance of the incident and activated the Departments Information Technology wing. The compromised website has 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 .

IPL 2025: What Vaibhav Suryavanshi's Father Said After Record-breaking Ton!

The 14-year-old left-hander shattered records books when he became the youngest centurion in T20 cricket with a 35-ball hundred for Rajasthan Royals against Gujarat Titans on Monday night in Jaipur.

Rajasthani mother stranded in India but infant daughter faces return to Pakistan alone

JAIPUR: Amidst the escalating tensions since the Pahalgam attack, a deeply disturbing story has emerged from Rajasthan where a young mother, Bhor Rashmi, now faces the unimaginable - her infant daughter may have to return to Pakistan without her. A resident of Jaitsar in Sri Ganganagar district, Bhor Rashmi was married three years ago to Dhanpat Singh Sodha, a resident of Amarkot, Pakistan. Their daughter, Adarshini, was born in Pakistan. Rashmi and her daughter arrived in India on 3 April, but their visa expired on 27 April. However, Rashmi does not possess a Pakistani passport and remains an Indian citizen on paper, whereas Adarshini is a Pakistani citizen by birth. Following the Indian governments directive that Pakistani citizens must return within 48 hours after the Pahalgam attack, Adarshini is now required to go back to Pakistan - all alone. With the child's visa set having expired this Sunday, Rashmis family is desperately trying to secure an extension in the hope of keeping Adarshini in India for a little longer. Local police officer Imran Khan confirmed that the girl's maternal grandfather and family have been instructed to reach the Attari border with the necessary documents. The police, however, have no information regarding any possibility of a visa extension. As the government is yet to provide any relaxation, Rashmi and her infant daughter face a hugely uncertain future. Clearly, the bitterness in India-Pakistan relations is extracting huge human costs for ordinary people in countless ways.

Kharge lashes out at PM Modi for skipping all-party meet on Pahalgam attack

JAIPUR: Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge on Monday targeted Prime Minister Narendra Modi for skipping the all-party meeting called to discuss the Pahalgam terror attack that left 26 people dead. It is the misfortune of the country that when the pride of the country was hurt, you (PM Modi) were giving an election speech in Bihar, he said addressing the 'Samvidhan Bachao' rally here. Leaders of all parties attended the all-party meeting, but it is sad that PM Modi did not come to that meeting. Was Bihar far away? The PM should have come to the all-party meeting and explained the plan. What help does he need from us? he said. Further attacking the Prime Minister, he said, Modi gave inflation and unemployment. Such people weaken the country. The 56-inch chest has shrinked. In the run-up to the 2014 Lok Sabha polls, Modi had said that it takes a 56-inch chest to convert Uttar Pradesh into Gujarat in terms of development. Kharge said Congress leaders had decided that it will support the government in its action as the country is supreme. Country is supreme, then come parties, religion. Everyone should be united for the country, he said. He said the Congress talks about unity, but the BJP talks of breaking it. In this country, the Constitution is supreme and our democracy runs under the Constitution, he said. Attacking the government over alleged misuse of investigative agencies and raids on Congress leaders, he said, Whenever Congress grows, these people try to suppress it. We are not the ones to be suppressed. He alleged that BJP leaders are trying to weaken everyone but they cannot weaken democracy by filing false cases against people.

After Save Constitution rally, Kharge to discuss strengthening Congress in Rajasthan

Jaipur: As part of the Congress partys countrywide Save the Constitution campaign, its national chief, Mallikarjun Kharge, will address a rally at Ramlila Maidan in Jaipur on Monday. The rally will see the participation of thousands of Congress workers from across the state. Kharge will stay in Jaipur throughout the day. Apart from the rally, 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 .

Cross-border families crumble as tensions rise

JAIPUR: The heightened tension in India-Pakistan relations since the terror attack in Pahalgam has disrupted the lives of countless ordinary folk. Taking a tough stance, the Indian government has revoked the visas of Pakistani citizens and directed them to return to their country. This decision has shaken the lives of several Pakistani citizens and families who have recently come to Rajasthan, which shares the longest common border with Pakistan. Among the worst-hit is the love story of two youths from Jaisalmer, which flourished in Pakistan two years ago and culminated in their marriage but has now fallen prey to sudden orders from the government. Cousins Saleh Mohammad and Mushtaq Ali, residents of Devikot in Jaisalmer, went to meet their aunt in the Ghotki district of Sindh province of Pakistan in July 2023. There, they fell in love with two girls named Karam Khatun (21) and Sachul (22). The two couples entered wedlock in August 2023 with the families consent. Despite the Nikah, the brides could not get a visa to India, but the grooms had to return in September 2023. After a wait of about one and a half years, the brides finally got their visas, came to Jaisalmer on April 11, and started living with their husbands and their families. Heartbreak amid exodus: Separations on both sides Just 10 days later, the terror attack in Pahalgam shattered their new-found wedded bliss. With the Modi government ordering Pakistani citizens to leave India, the brides father-in-law Haji Abdullah is now a worried man. He says, After the brides arrival in India, we had applied for a long-term visa. But after the government order, police is pressuring us to send them back to Pakistan. The administration is bent on sending the young brides back to Pakistan. How will these two go their in such tense times, Abdullah wonders. A similar situation confronts a family of 18 from Tando Allahyar district of Pakistan who have come to Rajasthans Barmer just last weekend. On Saturday, this Hindu family requested the government to let them stay in India.

BJP rebukes MLA for provoking unrest

Rajasthan BJP chief Madan Rathore rebuked MLA Balmukundacharya for raising slogans and displaying posters inside Jaipur's Jama Masjid, which incited tensions. Rathore emphasized that such actions contradict the party's principles and instructed members to maintain communal harmony. Balmukundacharya has apologized, and Rathore has urged all representatives to prioritize peace and public sentiment.

Families in Rajasthan with cross-border ties hit hard as India revokes visas for Pakistani citizens

JAIPUR: The recent terrorist attack in Pahalgam has intensified tensions between India and Pakistan, disrupting the lives of countless ordinary people. In response, the Indian government has taken a firm stance by cancelling the visas of Pakistani citizens and ordering them to return home. This move has deeply impacted many Pakistani individuals and families, particularly those who had recently arrived in Rajasthan, the state sharing the longest border with Pakistan. Among the worst-hit is the love story of two youths from Jaisalmer, which flourished in Pakistan two years ago, led to their marriage, but has now also fallen prey to the sudden orders from the government. After a love marriage in Pakistan in the year 2023, the two brides, Sachul and Karma Khatoon, have to return to Pakistan, just 13 days after coming to their in-laws' house in Jaisalmer. While the mehndi on the brides' hands has yet to fade, orders have arrived for them to return to their parental homes in Pakistan, casting a shadow of sadness over their husbands' homes in Jaisalmer. Cousins Saleh Mohammad and Mushtaq Ali, residents of Devikot in Jaisalmer, had gone to meet their aunt in Ghotki district of Sindh province of Pakistan in July 2023. There, they fell in love with two girls named Karam Khatun (21) and Sachul (22). After the consent of the families, the Nikah of both was done in August 2023. Despite the Nikah, both the brides could not get a visa to India but the grooms had to return to India in September 2023 and started waiting for their brides to come to India after getting their visas. After waiting for about one and a half years, both the brides finally got their visas from the Government of India in April 2025. Both promptly came to Jaisalmer on 11 April and started living with their husbands and their family. Just 10 days later on 22 April, the terrorist attack in Pahalgam has shattered their new-found wedded-bliss. With the Modi government ordering Pakistani citizens to leave India, the bride's father-in-law Haji Abdullah is now a worried man. He says that after the arrival of both the brides in India, we had applied for a long-term visa. But after the government's order, the police administration is pressuring us to send both the brides back to Pakistan. Father-in-law Haji Abdullah is worried about the safety of both the brides. He asks anxiously, after the government's order, the police administration is forcing us to send these young brides back to Pakistan. In such a tense situation, how will these two go to Pakistan? If the roads are closed after going from here, then our family will be destroyed. He has requested both the local authorities and the Indian government to allow the brides to settle in his family. Meanwhile, the two young brides are deeply disappointed at getting the information of being sent to Pakistan. Both of them say that they will prefer to die rather than leave their husbands and go back to Pakistan. Karam Khatoon's father-in-law Abdullah points out that the brides are in no position to go back to Pakistan. He remarked, Karam Khatoon's mother has died. She was raised by her father and after marriage, her father has also gone to work in Arab. In such a situation, on whose trust can we send Karam back to Pakistan. Abdullah says he is unable to contact Karam's father and there is no one there who can take care of her. Due to this, I cannot send her alone to Pakistan. Abdullah has appealed to the government to give concessions. A similar tough situation confronts another family of 18 members from Tando Allahyar district of Pakistan who have come to Rajasthans Barmer district just last weekend. The family had come with the intention of staying in India and had reached Barmer just a few days ago. On Saturday, this Hindu family from Pakistan, requested the government with folded hands to let them stay in India, as they have also applied for a long term visa. Family member Suresh says that there is no income in Pakistan while the expenses are very high and thats why we came to live here. Suresh asserts that most of his family and relatives live in India, and thats why they came on visa on 19th April to leave Pakistan and stay in India forever. The 18 members of this family include women, children and men. He said that India is very good and we want to stay here for which we have submitted all the documents for long term visas. We request the government that we should be allowed to stay in Barmer. Another member of the family, Kailash Kumar says we have come here as we are fed up with Pakistan. We request the Indian government with folded hands, to help us stay here. All Pakistani citizens who had come to India recently on religious visa, visitor visa or for other reasons, except those whose Long Term Visa (LTV) has been approved or is under consideration, all Pak citizens will have to return to Pakistan in compliance with the instructions of the Government of India. But these affected families in Rajasthan hope that the Indian government will understand their pain and save them from being ruined. Clearly, as India-Pakistan tensions escalate, the lives of many ordinary people are getting badly hit and in the crossfire between the two bitter neighbours, its common citizens who are feeling helpless and are bound to suffer in countless ways.

Doctor, 25, Dies Of Burn Injuries, Mother Claims Murder

A 25-year-old medical graduate, Bhawana Yadav, from Rajasthan preparing for postgraduate medical studies in Delhi suffered severe burn injuries while she was in Hisar. She later died during treatment in Jaipur.

Man held with Rs 1.91 crore worth gold smuggled from Dubai at Delhi airport

Customs officials seize 2 kg of gold from Jaipur resident after detailed baggage screening.

IPL Black Tickets Sale: 2 Arrested in Jaipur, 56 Tickets Recovered

During interrogation, the accused allegedly revealed that they were selling tickets worth Rs 2,400 for Rs 4,000 and tickets worth Rs 3,200 for Rs 5,000.

New Delhi to Jaipur expressway to cut down time to...will connect these important cities, here's all you need to know

A new expressway is being built in Delhi that shortens the travelling time between the NCR and Jaipur. With a distance between 250 and 300 km, the travel time between Delhi and Jaipur will now be just 2.5 hours.

Centre plans 25 new ropeway projects across 10 states to boost connectivity and tourism

NEW DELHI: The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) has started preparing comprehensive reports to check scope and feasibility of the development of at least 25 ropeway projects in 10 states, including Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Rajasthan, and Arunachal Pradesh. The sites identified to introduce aerial transport system include Ooty (Tamil Nadu), Boyakonda Gangamma Temple (AP), Mullayyana Giri (Karnataka), Shirgul Mahadev Temple (Sirmour, Himachal Pradesh), Palampur Thathri-Chhunja Glacier (Himachal Pradesh), Hempeupet Peak (Assam), Lokopriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport (Assam), Shivneri Fort (Junnar, Maharashtra) and Amer Fort-Nahargarh Fort (Jaipur, Rajasthan). The National Highways Logistics Management Limited, the agency entrusted with the work for development of ropeways projects under Parvatmala Pariyojana, will soon appoint consultants for preparing Detailed Project Reports for these projects. The agency is a wholly owned company of NHAI, which functions under the ministry. The 24-km ropeway in Assam, connecting Khanapara to Lokopriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport in Guwahati, is significant because of its length. Most of them aim to improve accessibility to religious and historic sites. For DPRs, the assessment of the sites and the length of the proposed ropeway with Lower Terminal Point will be finalized. The review will also help in taking decision whether the length is to be increased or reduced considering site specific local factors. To improve last-mile connectivity in remote and hilly regions, the Centre in the 2022 Budget announced the National Ropeways Development Programme.

FIR against BJP MLA for 'provocative' rant outside Rajasthan mosque

Tensions flared in Jaipur's walled city after BJP MLA Balmukundacharya and supporters allegedly engaged in provocative sloganeering near Jama Masjid during a protest against the Pahalgam massacre. An FIR has been filed against the MLA for allegedly hurting religious sentiments and inciting violence. CCTV footage shows the group pasting posters and raising anti-Pakistan slogans near the mosque, sparking widespread protests.

BJP MLA booked for hurting religious sentiments after high drama at Jaipur mosque

Balmukund Acharya, his supporters, and a large number of BJP leaders and workers allegedly raised offensive slogans at the Jama Masjid in the Walled City; the FIR said they threatened to kill Muslims

BJP MLA Acharya apologises amid outrage over controversial protest at Jaipur's Jama Masjid

JAIPUR: BJP MLA Balmukund Acharya has stepped back and issued an apology after facing a backlash over the objectionable sloganeering and alleged misbehaviour that his supporters indulged in during a protest outside the Jama Masjid in Jaipur on Friday night. In a video message released on Saturday, Acharya stated, If anyones sentiments were hurt due to the posters or my words, I sincerely apologise. It was never my intention to hurt any community or religion. At this time, unity among all of us is very important. He further emphasised that India functions according to the Constitution, where every citizen has the right to respect their religious sentiments. He urged people to stay united and support Prime Minister Narendra Modis efforts to combat terrorism and respond strongly to Pakistan. Amid rumours about a potential Jaipur bandh against his controversial actions, Acharya also appealed for calm through a post on his official X handle. The unrest in Jaipur began on Friday night when tensions erupted in the Chardiwari (old city) area. Around 8:30 p.m., during a protest led by Balmukund Acharya and his supporters condemning the recent terrorist attack in Pahalgam, posters reading Pakistan Murdabad were allegedly pasted outside the Jama Masjid premises. The group led by Acharya also raised some controversial slogans and carried posters with offensive messages during their protest. The incident angered members of the Muslim community, who responded by staging a counter-protest near Badi Chaupad next to Jaipur's famous landmark, the Hawa Mahal. They also raised slogans and posters of their own. A brief altercation between the two groups followed, leading to the registration of an FIR against Hawamahal MLA Balmukund Acharya. The FIR, registered against Acharya at Manak Chowk police station, accuses him of inciting religious sentiments and disrupting social harmony. Sources within the BJP suggest that Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma and senior party leaders were unhappy with Acharyas actions, especially given the sensitive environment. State BJP President Madan Rathore reportedly called Acharya to express his disapproval. Following the conversation, Acharya assured the leadership that he would exercise greater caution in future and avoid similar incidents. In the midst of the controversy, the Jama Masjid Committee held a press conference on Saturday evening and released a video showing Balmukund Acharya entering the mosque while wearing shoes, a gesture considered highly disrespectful in Islamic tradition. Congress MLAs Rafiq Khan and Amin Kagzi, who attended the press conference, criticized the BJP MLA's behaviour. MLA Rafiq Khan said, We have no objection to slogans like 'Pakistan Murdabad' or 'Terrorism Murdabad.' We too oppose terrorism. But the BJP MLA deliberately tried to provoke religious sentiments under the pretext of the protest.This controversy is not the first time Balmukund Acharya has captured public attention with his dubious actions. Earlier, he had drawn headlines for calling for the closure of meat shops in Jaipur, citing religious sentiments. Despite his video apology, people are focused on how the police proceed in the case involving an MLA of the ruling BJP. Many in political circles say that just issuing an apology can hardly undo the frictions and disharmony that his dubious and divisive actions ignited.

BJP MLA accused of sloganeering inside Jaipur mosque, he issues statement

Jaipur: Tensions flared in the Johri Bazar area here as protesters gathered in large numbers late on Friday night, accusing BJP MLA Balmukund Acharya of raising slogans targeting a community and pasting an offensive poster inside the Jama Masjid, a charge the lawmaker denied categorically. Acharya, however, explained that he had joined a public meeting 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 .

Posters spark tension near Jaipur mosque; FIR filed against BJP MLA for inciting communal unrest

JAIPUR: Tension erupted in the Chardiwari area of Jaipur's Walled city after controversial posters reading Pakistan Murdabad and some other offensive slogans were allegedly pasted outside the Jama Masjid in Johri Bazaar on Friday night. Following the incident, an FIR was registered against BJP leader and Hawamahal MLA Balmukund Acharya. The incident unfolded around 8:30 pm when MLA Acharya and several others organized a protest condemning the recent terrorist attack in Pahalgam. However, during the protest, some individuals reportedly pasted the controversial posters on the mosque premises, escalating the situation. The appearance of these posters triggered outrage among members of the Muslim community, who began protesting near Badi Chaupad, opposite Jaipur's most famous landmark the Hawa Mahal. They began raising slogans and put up counter-posters and a brief altercation occurred between the two groups. As tensions escalated, Congress MLAs Rafiq Khan and Amin Kagzi arrived on the scene and helped to defuse the situation. Allegations were made by the Muslim community that several protestors had entered the mosque without removing their shoes, which added to the growing unrest. The controversial posters also included a slogan reading, Who says terrorism has no religion? along with an image of a bearded man. The Jaipur Police Commissionerate intervened as the situation worsened, with Police Commissioner Biju George Joseph and Additional Police Commissioner Rameshwar Singh arriving to manage the crowd and restore order. Additional police forces were deployed to maintain peace in the area. Protesters accused MLA Balmukunda Acharya of inciting religious sentiments and stoking communal passions. Subsequently, the Jama Masjid Committee filed an FIR against MLA Acharya at the Manak Chowk police station. The crowd dispersed only after the FIR was officially announced through the mosque loudspeakers. Jama Masjid Secretary Zahirullah Khan, who went to file the FIR, explained, Isha Namaz was in progress at the mosque when MLA Balmukund Acharya arrived with his supporters. He kicked the posters of Pakistan, and we agree with that action. We would have done the same. But they also brought other offensive posters that hurt the sentiments of our community. MLA Rafiq Khan, speaking about the incident, said, This was not a protest by one community, but a concern shared by society at large. We all stand against terrorism, but some individuals acted irresponsibly. We have taken legal action accordingly.