Rajasthan Assembly witnesses uproar as Congress protest against alleged discrepancies in voter list
JAIPUR: The monsoon session of the Rajasthan Assembly began on Monday with uproarious scenes as Congress MLAs entered the House wearing white T-shirts emblazoned with the slogan Vote chor, gaddi chhod (vote thief, vacate the chair). As soon as the proceedings commenced, the opposition members raised slogans against the BJP, accusing it of clinging to power through electoral malpractice. The protest echoed Congress leader Rahul Gandhis earlier campaign line in Bihar, where he had repeatedly accused Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the BJP of stealing votes to form governments . A video circulating on social media showed senior leaders, including Leader of Opposition Tikaram Jully, Sachin Pilot, Harish Chaudhary and Rafiq Khan, marching together from MLA residence to the Assembly premises in protest T-shirts while shouting slogans, holding placards in their hand. Outside the Assembly, LoP Jully sharpened his attack on the ruling party, alleging, The Bharatiya Janata Party has stolen votes in both the Lok Sabha and Assembly elections. Even the Jaipur Rural seat was won through rigging. The commotion prompted Speaker Vasudev Devnani to repeatedly urge the opposition legislators to maintain calm and respect the dignity of the House. Expressing his displeasure, he warned, This is not a marketplace or a crossroad. Such behavior cannot be allowed here. Turning to LoP Jully, he added, As Leader of Opposition, you should uphold the dignity of the House. What kind of words are you using? On the other hand, BJP also raised counter-slogans against Rahul Gandhi and the Congress, accusing them of using abusive language. Amid the ruckus, the House managed to take up only selective business. A Bill and the Select Committee report on the Coaching Centre Regulation were presented. Tributes were also paid to 10 leaders, including former Governor Satya Pal Malik. Thereafter, the session was adjourned until Wednesday, with Tuesday declared a holiday. The dramatic protests and disruptions on the opening day signaled a stormy monsoon session ahead, with the Congress expected to continue its aggressive stance against the BJP.
Parts of Rajasthan get heavy showers, two killed in rain-related incidents
JAIPUR: Two people were killed after being struck by lightning and another person was swept away by strong currents of a river as many parts of Rajasthan, including state capital Jaipur, received rains, officials said. According to Met department, Jalore on Sunday recorded the highest rainfall at 118.5 mm during the day, followed by Pilani with 51.2 mm, Sangaria in Hanumangarh with 24 mm, Lunkaransar in Bikaner with 23.5 mm and Vanasthali in Tonk with 21 mm. Several districts, including Jaipur, Hanumangarh, Sri Ganganagar, Sawai Madhopur and Dausa, received light to moderate rainfall on Sunday. In Sawai Madhopur, a girl died and seven others were injured after lightning struck a house on Saturday. Another youth was killed in Rawatbhata, Chittorgarh after being struck by lightning on Sunday, while in Dausa's Sikandra, a woman and a girl sustained burn injuries in a similar incident. Uttarakhand reels under heavy rains as highways blocked, swollen rivers submerge towns In Sirohi district, five youths who had entered the Banas river to take bath were swept away by the strong current. Four of them were rescued safely, while one remained missing, police said. A department official said a circulation system is currently lying over northwest Rajasthan while the monsoon trough line is passing through its normal position and remains active. The monsoon will remain active over parts of eastern Rajasthan for the next five to six days and moderate to heavy rainfall is likely in most areas and heavy rains at isolated places. Western Rajasthan, particularly Jodhpur and Bikaner divisions, may also receive moderate to heavy rainfall at several places over the next two to three days, the official said. 11, including 5 children, dead as heavy rains trigger cloudburst, landslide in J&K | Video
Dhankhar seeks Rajasthan MLA pension after VP resignation
JAIPUR : Barely a month after resigning as Vice President of India, Jagdeep Dhankhar has applied for a pension as a former member of the Rajasthan Legislative Assembly. Dhankhar, who represented the Kishangarh constituency in Ajmer district from 1993 to 1998 as a Congress MLA, has submitted his request to the Rajasthan Assembly Secretariat in Jaipur. If approved, he will receive a monthly pension of `42,000, along with other benefits available to former legislators in the state At 74, he joined the BJP in 2003 and had been receiving the MLA pension until 2019 when he was appointed Governor of West Bengal. After stepping down as Vice President in July citing health reasons, Dhankhar has largely stayed out of the public eye. Opposition questioned his resignation, but home minister Amit Shah said it was due to health reasons. Dhankhars political journey spans decades, and his pension application is under review.
Jagdeep Dhankhar applies for pension as former MLA after resigning as Vice President
JAIPUR: Barely a month after resigning as Vice President of India, Jagdeep Dhankhar has submitted an application to claim pension as a former member of the Rajasthan Legislative Assembly. Dhankhar had represented the Kishangarh constituency in Ajmer district as a Congress MLA from 1993 to 1998. Sources have confirmed that the Rajasthan Assembly Secretariat in Jaipur has begun reviewing his request. If approved, Dhankhar will start receiving a monthly pension of 42,000 along with other benefits available to all former legislators in the state. 74-year-old Dhankhar, who joined the BJP in 2003, was receiving an MLAs pension until 2019 when he was appointed Governor of West Bengal, eventually becoming Vice President. Citing health reasons, Dhankhar had quit as Vice President on July 21. According to officials, the Rajasthan Assembly Secretariat has begun processing his pension request. Since resigning as Vice President, Dhankhar has largely stayed away from public life, prompting speculation in political circles ahead of the monsoon session of Parliament. Opposition parties have repeatedly raised questions about his sudden resignation and absence, while former Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot has sought clarity, citing Dhankhars connection to the state. Union Home Minister Amit Shah, however, clarified that Dhankhar stepped down due to health reasons and dismissed opposition allegations as baseless. Dhankhars political career spans several decades and diverse roles. He served as a Janata Dal MP from Jhunjhunu from 1989 to 1991 and was Minister of State for Parliamentary Affairs in the Chandrashekhar government. In 1993, he was elected as a Congress MLA from Kishangarh. Later, he served as Governor of West Bengal from 2019 to 2022 before becoming Vice President of India, a position he held from 2022 until his resignation in 2025. The Assembly Secretariat is examining Dhankhars pension application according to state rules. Former legislators are entitled to pensions and other facilities based on their tenure. In Dhankhars case, his five-year service makes him eligible for a monthly pension of 42,000, along with medical coverage, travel allowances, and other entitlements. An official from the Vidhan Sabha, speaking on condition of anonymity, said, This is a routine process. Former MLAs and MPs are entitled to pensions, but it is suspended while they hold a position of profit. After vacating such posts, formalities must be completed to resume the pension. In addition to the pension, former MLAs in Rajasthan receive free medical treatment for themselves and their families, allowances for official or assembly-related travel, and participation in Assembly-organised programmes. Dhankhars application has reignited discussion in political circles, with observers viewing it as another chapter in his long political journey. The Assembly Secretariat is expected to announce a decision on the matter soon.
Womens Safety Report : Fear runs deeper than nos
NEW DELHI: The NARI 2025 National Annual Report and Index on Womens Safety, released by the National Commission for Women, offers the telling reality of the urban safety landscape. The survey covered 12,770 women across 31 cities and yielded a national safety score of 65%, which implies that four in 10 women (40%) consider themselves unsafe despite government assurances. Around 60% of women reported feeling safe, while 40% admitted they felt not-so-safe or outright unsafe. The anxieties deepen among younger women: while public harassment was reported by 7% of all respondents in 2024, the figure rose to 14% for those under 24, indicating that students and young professionals are disproportionately targeted in educational and recreational spaces. The report shows low levels of faith in redressal mechanism. Only one in three victims of harassment filed a formal complaint, and confidence in the system is strikingly weak: 75% of women said they did not believe authorities would resolve their complaints. Even when incidents are reported, only 22% are formally registered, and action is taken in a mere 16% of those cases, highlighting a pervasive cycle of silence. Harassment hotspots reveal vulnerabilities, with 38% of cases occurring within neighbourhoods and 29% in public transport systems. Workplace safety presents a paradoxical picture. A large majority91%described their office environment as safe, but nearly half of the respondents admitted they were unaware whether their organisation had implemented the mandated Prevention of Sexual Harassment (POSH) mechanism. Among those who were aware, most found it effective, suggesting that awareness is as critical as legislation itself. The report stresses that womens safety cannot be reduced to physical protection alone but must include psychological, financial, and digital security that collectively shape womens access to mobility, opportunity, and dignity. It frames safety as a developmental issue rather than a law-and-order question. The sense of safety also varies with time and place. Women reported relative comfort in offices and campuses during the day, but confidence collapsed after dark, where poor street lighting and unreliable public transport left them exposed. City-level disparities are equally stark: Kohima, Visakhapatnam, and Bhubaneswar topped the index, followed closely by Aizawl, Gangtok, Itanagar, and Mumbai, where women expressed relatively higher perceptions of safety. In contrast, Patna, Jaipur, Faridabad, Delhi, Kolkata, Srinagar, and Ranchi occupied the bottom ranks. Ranchi recorded 44% feeling unsafe, while in Delhi and Faridabad the figure was around 42%. The numbers show a fractured urban landscape where geography shapes womens fears as much as governance.
Mumbai, Kohima Safest For Women; Patna, Jaipur, Delhi Least Safe: Report
Kohima, Bhubaneswar, and Mumbai have emerged as the safest cities in the country for women, while Kolkata, Srinagar and Ranchi were ranked the lowest, according to the National Annual Report & Index on Women's Safety 2025.'
NEW DELHI: Kohima, Visakhapatnam, Bhubaneswar, Aizawl, Gangtok, Itanagar and Mumbai have emerged as the safest cities in the country for women, while Patna, Jaipur, Faridabad, Delhi, Kolkata, Srinagar and Ranchi were ranked the lowest, according to the National Annual Report & Index on Women's Safety (NARI) 2025. The nationwide index released on Thursday, based on a survey of 12,770 women across 31 cities, placed the national safety score at 65 per cent, categorising cities as much above, above, at, elow or much below this benchmark. Kohima and other top-ranked cities were associated with stronger gender equity, civic participation, policing and women-friendly infrastructure. At the other end of the spectrum, cities like Patna and Jaipur fared poorly due to weak institutional responsiveness, patriarchal norms and gaps in urban infrastructure. Kohima, Vishakhapatnam, Bhubaneswar, Aizawl, Gangtok, Itanagar, Mumbai lead national safety rankings, often correlating with higher gender equity, infrastructure, policing, or civic participation while Ranchi, Srinagar, Kolkata, Delhi, Faridabad, Patna, and Jaipur scored lowest, correlating with poorer infrastructure, patriarchal norms, or weaker institutional responsiveness, the report said. Overall, six in ten women surveyed felt safe in their city, but 40 per cent still considered themselves ot so safe or unsafe. The study revealed sharp drops in perceptions of safety at night, particularly in public transport and recreational spaces. Educational institutions (86 per cent safe) especially in daylight, but safety perceptions fall sharply at night or off-campus. About 91 per cent of women reported safety, yet about half were unclear if their workplace had a POSH (Prevention of Sexual Harassment) policy; those with such policies generally rated them as effective. Only one-fourth of women said they trusted authorities to act effectively on safety complaints. While 69 per cent said current safety efforts were somewhat adequate, over 30 per cent noted significant gaps or failures; only 65 per cent perceived real improvement over the years 2023-2024. Seven per cent of women said they experienced harassment in public spaces in 2024, with the figure doubling to 14 per cent among those under 24. Neighbourhoods (38 per cent) and public transport (29 per cent) were most often flagged as harassment hotspots. Yet, only one in three victims came forward to report the incidents. The report stressed that official crime data alone cannot reflect women's lived reality. Two out of three women do not report harassment, meaning NCRB misses the bulk of incidents, the study said, calling for integration of crime data with perception-based surveys like NARI. Launching the report, National Commission for Women (NCW) chairperson Vijaya Rahatkar said safety cannot be seen merely as a law-and-order issue but as one that affects every aspect of a woman's life whether it is her education, health, work opportunities and freedom of movement. She added that when women feel unsafe, hey limit themselves, and women limiting themselves is not only for their own development, but also for the development of the country. She emphasised that a safe environment was crucial for building a developed and inclusive India, pointing to four dimensions of women's security of physical, psychological, financial and digital nature. It is our responsibility to protect women not just from crimes on the streets but also from cybercrimes, economic discrimination and mental harassment, Rahatkar noted. Highlighting positive measures, she praised the growing presence of women police officers and female drivers in public transport as effective confidence-building steps. In many Union Territories, 33 per cent of police personnel are now women, and this has made a decisive difference in building trust, she said. She also lauded initiatives such as women's helplines, CCTV coverage in smart cities, and improved safety networks at railway stations and bus depots. At the same time, Rahatkar urged society at large to share responsibility. We often blame the system, but we must also ask what we have done. Whether it is using helplines, supporting awareness drives, or simply keeping public toilets clean, society's role is equally important, she said. The NARI index has been conceived by The NorthCap University and Jindal Global Law School and is published by the Group of Intellectuals and Academicians (GIA).
Rajasthan HC cancels controversial 2021 SI recruitment exam after paper leak scandal
JAIPUR: The much-debated Rajasthan Police Sub-Inspector (SI) Recruitment Examination 2021 has finally been cancelled by the Rajasthan High Court. A single bench of Justice Sameer Jain delivered the verdict today after a prolonged hearing. Held from September 13 to 15, 2021, the recruitment exam saw over 7.97 lakh candidates compete for 859 posts. The controversy erupted in February 2024 when the paper leak scandal came to light, triggering political uproar. The exam soon became a major issue in the 2023 assembly elections, with the BJP promising an SIT probe if voted to power. After forming the government, Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma constituted a Special Investigation Team (SIT) under senior IPS officer V.K. Singh to investigate the scandal. The SIT, led by the Special Operations Group (SOG), uncovered how the SI exam paper was leaked from Jaipur and later distributed to candidates by the paper mafia for sums ranging between Rs 1520 lakh. Over 53 trainee sub-inspectors were arrested in phases about 30 of whom are now out on bail. Most have since been dismissed from service, even though many had already completed training and were posted in the field. In total, the SOG has arrested around 125 people, including paper mafia brokers, candidates who purchased the leaked paper, and senior officials of RPSC. Among those implicated are former RPSC member Ramu Ram Raika, who, along with his son and daughter, allegedly received the leaked paper from then-RPSC member Babulal Katara a week before the exam. Both Raika and Katara, along with their associates, were later arrested. Despite these revelations, the SOGs recommendation to cancel the recruitment was overruled last month by the state government. Advocate General Rajendra Prasad had informed the High Court that a Cabinet Sub-Committee reviewed the case and advised against cancellation, with the Chief Ministers Office approving the recommendation. However, the High Court, after examining the evidence and hearing arguments, has now ordered the recruitment to be cancelled. The ruling has once again brought the spotlight to the integrity of recruitment exams in Rajasthan. With thousands of candidates futures hanging in the balance, the cancellation is likely to stir political debate afresh. Timeline Rajasthan Police SI Recruitment Paper Leak Case September 1315, 2021 Rajasthan Police SI recruitment exam conducted; 7.97 lakh candidates appear for 859 posts. February 2024 Paper leak scandal surfaces, sparking political uproar. FebruaryJune 2024 SOG begins arrests; 106 accused held so far, including 53 trainee SIs (around 30 later granted bail). September 2024 Former RPSC member Ramu Ram Raika arrested; SOG also detains five trainee sub-inspectors, including Raikas son Devesh Raika and daughter Shobha Raika. September 2024 SOG arrests suspended RPSC member Babulal Katara, who had earlier been arrested in the case in 2023. June 5, 2025 SOG detains former minister Mahendrajit Singh Malviyas personal secretary Kundan Kumar Pandey. Mid-2025 SOG ADG V.K. Singh recommends cancellation of the recruitment; four investigating agencies also advise scrapping the process. July 2025 Bhajan Lal government tells the Rajasthan High Court it will not cancel the recruitment; Cabinet Sub-Committee and CMs Office approve continuation. July 2025 SOG arrests Ajay Pratap Singh Rathore, son of the driver of ex-RPSC member Babulal Katara. July 2025 SOG arrests the nephew of former RPSC member Babulal Katara. August 9, 2025 Former CM Ashok Gehlots PSO Rajkumar Yadav and his son Bharat Yadav arrested for allegedly obtaining the leaked paper; both remanded till August 12. August 28, 2025 Rajasthan High Court cancels the SI recruitment exam.
Over dozen children injured as school bus carrying 40 falls into gorge in U'khand's Haldwani
The incident took place in Jaipur Bisa village on Bareilly Road under Lalkuan Kotwali, when the bus was heading towards a private school. According to eyewitnesses, the mishap occurred while the driver was attempting to give way to another school bus, causing the vehicle to skid and overturn into a ditch by the roadside.
Diaspora reframed in Jaipur | Rajiv Menons Non-Residency at Jaipur Centre for Art
At Jaipurs City Palace, Rajiv Menons Non-Residency seeks to fill the narrative gap between India and its migr artists
Jaipur Diary: Fertiliser crisis or political harvest?
Fertiliser crisis or political harvest? Whether or not the crops in Rajasthan get fertilisers on time this sowing season, one thing is certain: the fertiliser shortage has ripened a bumper crop of politics. From Bharatpur to Barmer, angry farmers are seen standing in long queues. This has ignited a new war of words between Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma and his predecessor, Ashok . In a social media strike, Gehlot accused the double-engine government of failing farmers, even in Bharatpur, the CMs district. Sharma dismissed the charge. The shortage is not new. Rajasthan faces it every year, but the face-off between two heavyweights has turned it into a political hot potato. Price of a slip of tongue in the world of politics In politics, over-enthusiasm is as dangerous as silence. BJP MLA Nauksham Chaudhary has just proved it. The first-time legislator from Kamanin Deeg district stirred a storm by claiming that the BJP has installed its own party chief by removing Congress chiefs. The remark handed the opposition a golden chance. Congress pounced, with PCC Chief Govind Singh Dotasara posted the video on X and wrote, How the BJP murders democracy by misusing power. Just listen to what their own MLA says. The BJP scrambled to control the damage and distanced itself from Chaudharys words. Will the party initiate action against him? Power of Cabinet expansion gossip Ever since the new government took charge in Rajasthan, whispers of the cabinet expansion just dont die down. The buzz gets the loudest before assembly sessions. Political watchers explain why. The formula is simple: drop hints of expansion, let MLAs dream of ministerial chairs, and suddenly everyone falls in line with discipline. Whod dare rebel and forego a possible chance of ministership? Moreover, frustration simmers as the bureaucracy appears to call the shots, and BJP legislators face more neglect now than they did under the Congress. But hope acts as a restraint. In a state where a first-time MLA became CM, who wouldnt keep their eyes on the Cabinet? Rajesh Asnani Our correspondent in Jaipur rajesh.asnani@newindianexpress.com
Jaipur Jewellery Export Stops As Tariffs Kick In, Pieces Gather Dust In US
Worried murmurs fill the air of the winding by-lanes of Jaipur's jewellery market as the 50 per cent tariff of US President Donald Trump comes into force
Om Birla urges swift relief as heavy rains wreak havoc across Rajasthan
JAIPUR: As heavy rains and flood-like conditions persist in several parts of Rajasthan, Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla on Tuesday said that providing maximum relief to the affected people should be the administrations top priority. Chairing a review meeting on relief and disaster management with officials of Kota and Bundi districts at the Collectorate auditorium, Birla issued strict directions that no negligence or lapses in the survey of damage would be tolerated. The Speaker who is the Lok sabha MP from Kota asserted, I have personally visited the affected areas and seen the situation. Many families have lost everything. Relief must be provided with both speed and sensitivity. Birla directed officials to conduct damage assessments of houses, livestock, and crops with complete honesty and ensure that all eligible families receive assistance as per the State Disaster Response Fund (SDRF) norms. He also instructed that affected families should not be asked to produce house leases while applying for relief, as no such provision exists in the guidelines. Special care should be taken so that families whose houses have been damaged get maximum help, including compensation for loss of utensils and clothes, he said. The Agriculture Department reported that soybean and urad crops have suffered extensive losses due to excessive rainfall. Birla asked officials to prioritize compensation for small and marginal farmers and ordered that road repairs be started immediately, along with checking the drainage system and restoring electricity and water supply in affected areas. Rajasthan has witnessed continuous heavy rainfall over the past few days, leading to severe disruption of normal life. According to the Meteorological Department, very heavy rains were recorded in Kota, Jaipur, Bharatpur division, Shekhawati region, Bikaner, and parts of Ajmer division. An orange alert has been issued for Chittorgarh, Dungarpur, Pratapgarh, Rajsamand, Sikar, Jalore, and Pali, while a red alert has been sounded in Sirohi and Udaipur districts.
ADGP Mahipal Yadav, who was set to retire on August 31, dies while undergoing treatment in Jaipur
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM:Former Excise Commissioner and 1997-batch IPS officer, ADGP Mahipal Yadav, passed away in Jaipur on Wednesday. Set to retire on August 31, Mahipal was diagnosed with brain tumour recently following which he went back to Rajasthan for treatment and joining his family. A native of Alwar, Mahipal was recently transferred as ADGP Crimes. But he was reluctant to join a new wing towards the fag end of the career. Following his request, he was allowed to continue as Excise Commissioner until he went on leave after his health deteriorated. Mahipal returned to the state from central deputation two years back. He had previously worked in the CBI where he investigated sensational AgustaWestland chopper bribery scandal case and corruption case of late Samajwadi Party supremo Mulayam Singh Yadav. The police department was planning to arrange a virtual sent off for the outgoing officer on August 27. However, the relatives informed the senior officers about his demise.
Jaipur traders express concern over Trump tariffs, say 'cannot sustain without US market'
The US tariffs on Indian imports have sparked concerns in Jaipur, particularly among gems, jewellery, and garment traders. Raju Mangodiwala, president of the Jaipur Jewellery Association, anticipates a significant impact on their sector, with trade to the US worth Rs 11 to 12 lakh crores.
CM calls for collective efforts to achieve Developed Rajasthan-2047 goals
held marathon meetings with the BJP MPs, MLAs, party office-bearers and the BJP candidates in the 2023 Assembly election at his official residence in Jaipur for two days
Harsh Malhotra said he was grateful to contribute to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Minister Nitin Gadkaris vision of Viksit Bharat, where world-class infrastructure was not a dream but a reality
RPSC paper leak mastermind dies under suspicious circumstances, family alleges murder
JAIPUR: Amrit Lal Meena, the alleged mastermind behind the Rajasthan Public Service Commission (RPSC) paper leak scandal, has died under suspicious circumstances in Varanasi. The 56-year-old, a resident of Karauli district, was admitted to a private hospital in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, from 21 to 23 August. On 24 August, he was referred to Jaipur for further treatment and was being shifted on a ventilator. However, he suddenly died en route to Agra. His body was subsequently taken to the district hospital in Hindaun City, where a post-mortem was conducted before being handed over to the family. Rajasthan government set to restructure RPSC to prevent paper leaks The family has alleged that Amrit Lal was poisoned and murdered in Varanasi. A complaint has been lodged at Nadauti police station, following which a zero FIR was registered and forwarded to Sigra police station in Varanasi for investigation. Sources claim that the family was informed of Amrit Lals hospitalisation by a man named RK Singh Bihari from Varanasi. However, upon their arrival in the city on Sunday, RK Singhs phone was found to be switched off. It is alleged that he, too, was involved in the paper leak racket. A former government college lecturer, Amrit Lal was a key accused in the 2013 Rajasthan Administrative Service (RAS) exam paper leak case. Investigations revealed that out of the top 50 candidates in the RAS-2013 merit list, 32 hailed from his areanearly 20 of whom were his own family members or relatives. Following these revelations, the RPSC sent a confidential note to the Special Operations Group (SOG), which went on to expose the entire racket involving the leaking and sale of competitive exam papers. It was alleged that Amrit Lal and his network charged 30 lakh per candidate to guarantee success in both prelims and mains exams. The SOG had also arrested Sanjeev and Hansraj Meena in connection with the scam. Amrit Lal reportedly provided leaked papers free of charge to at least five of his relatives. With Amrit Lal's sudden and suspicious death, the already controversial RPSC paper leak case has taken a darker and more complex turn.
A Jaipur family court granted a 67-year-old retired government officer a divorce after 43 years of marriage, citing mental cruelty due to his wife's constant suspicion and character assassination. The husband alleged his wife denied him access to the AC room, made accusations against his character, and criticized their living conditions.
IAF to bid farewell to iconic MiG-21 on September 26; Air Chief pays tribute with solo sortie
JAIPUR: The iconic MiG-21 fighter aircraft, once hailed as the pride of the Indian Air Force (IAF) and a trusted guardian of Indias skies for over six decades, is set to retire from operational service on 26 September 2025. Ahead of this historic farewell, Air Chief Marshal Amar Preet Singh paid a personal tribute to the jet by flying a solo sortie from the Nal Airbase in Bikaner. The gesture carried deep emotional significance for Singh, who had taken the first operational flight of his career in a MiG-21 back in 1985. The MiG-21 has been the backbone of the Indian Air Force since the 1960s. Fast, agile and simple in design, it holds a special place in the heart of every pilot who has flown it, he said after the flight. According to IAF spokesperson Wing Commander Jaideep Singh, the MiG-21 entered service in 1963, with the No. 28 Squadron based in Chandigarh becoming the first to operate it. As Indias first supersonic fighter, the squadron earned the title The First Supersonics. The MiG-21 went on to script history in multiple wars. It played a key role in the 1965 war and was pivotal in the 1971 Indo-Pak conflict, where it executed decisive strikes. On 14 December 1971, MiG-21s bombed the Governor's House in Dhaka, forcing the Governors resignation the next day. Within 48 hours, Pakistan surrendered, and 93,000 Pakistani soldiers laid down arms before the Indian Army. That was a turning point in the war, and the MiG-21s role was historic, the spokesperson said. Wing Commander Jaideep Singh, who has himself flown the aircraft, recalled: From shooting down F-104 Starfighters in 1971 to challenging F-16s in recent years, the MiG-21s legacy is unmatched. It has been flown by generations of Indian pilots. We will miss this iconic fighter deeply. Globally recognised as the longest-serving supersonic jet, the MiG-21 not only provided a shield of security to India but also laid the foundation for many battlefield victories. Its legacy, however, is also marked by tragedy. With technology upgrades lagging over the decades, the aircraft became prone to accidents. According to estimates, the IAF lost more than 200 pilots in nearly 400 MiG-21 crashes. Despite this, the aircraft remains a symbol of courage, resilience, and national pride.
Conference On Cow-Based Economy In Jaipur Next Week
More than 150 entrepreneurs from different countries will display their products and technologies at the exhibition.
Gehlot questions delay in Pachpadra refinery despite double-engine govt claims
JAIPUR: Senior Congress leader Ashok Gehlot on Monday slammed the BJP dispensation in Rajasthan over the slow pace of the Pachpadra refinery project in Barmer district and asked why the work was lagging despite a double-engine government being in place. Following the high-profile visit and bold claims, former Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot launched a sharp attack on the BJP government, alleging intentional delays and unprecedented cost escalation in the prestigious project. Speaking to the media on Monday, Gehlot pointed out that the BJP government itself had stated in its 202526 budget (announcement no. 158) that the Pachpadra-Balotra refinery would begin production in August 2025. Yet, despite the CM and Union Minister visiting the site, their statements, and even the official press release, made no mention of a production timeline. This silence is sowing doubt in the publics mind, Gehlot said. The Congress leader claimed that despite the COVID-19 pandemic, his administration had accelerated work on the project, completing more than 80% of the refinery. He accused the BJP of repeatedly stalling progress, first between 2013 and 2018, and again post-2023, which he said had pushed costs from the original 37,000 crore to nearly 1 lakh crore. Gehlot further argued that had the BJP not halted the project after assuming power in 2013, the cost escalation could have been avoided. People are rightly asking why work is still dragging despite the so-called double-engine government, he said. It is worth recalling that the original foundation stone was laid in 2013 by UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi, with an estimated cost of 37,000 crore. In 2018, Prime Minister Narendra Modi re-laid the foundation stone, by which time the cost had risen to 43,000 crore, with a target completion date set for the end of 2022. That deadline was missed, and by 2024, the estimated cost had ballooned to 72,000 crore. Currently, while some units are reportedly 9098% complete, others remain under construction. Officials now aim to commission the plant by MarchApril 2026. A fresh controversy erupted following a post by Union Petroleum Minister Hardeep Singh Puri on social media platform X, where he mistakenly referred to the refinery as being in Jodhpur instead of Pachpadra in Balotra district. Leader of Opposition Tikaram Jully reacted sharply, posting: This shows how serious the BJPs double-engine government is about the Pachpadra refinery. The Union Minister doesnt even know its location, let alone the production timeline. Despite the ongoing political tussle, officials maintain that the project is progressing steadily. Petroleum Director Ajay Sharma recently stated that the refinerya joint venture between the Rajasthan government and Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Ltd (HPCL), is expected to be fully operational within six months, with partial operations, including crude oil refining, likely to begin by December. According to Sharma, 90% of the project work has already been completed. The Rajasthan government holds a 26% stake, while HPCL owns the remaining 74%. Once operational, the refinery is expected to generate an additional 4,000 crore annually for the state through VAT. At present, around 60,000 barrels of crude oil are being extracted daily from Cairn Energys facility in Barmer, which is currently transported to refineries in Gujarat.
Ananya Panday walks the ramp in Jaipur as Punit Balanas designer label turns 10
Label Punit Balana just turned 10 and to celebrate it the designer unveiled a store in Jaipur and hosted a fashion show against the majestic Rambagh Palace
Schools shut across Jaipur and other district amid extreme rainfall in Rajasthan
Heavy rainfall has triggered flood-like conditions in Rajasthan, prompting the state government to shut schools in Jaipur and other districts. An orange alert has been issued for Rajsamand, Sirohi, and Udaipur, while several towns remain inundated. NDRF, SDRF, and army teams have been deployed to assist in relief and rescue operations
Heavy rain lashes Rajasthan; IMD issues orange alert, schools shut in several districts
Rajasthan grapples with incessant heavy rainfall, prompting school closures in Jaipur and other districts as a precautionary measure. An orange alert has been issued for extremely heavy rainfall in Rajsamand, Sirohi, and Udaipur. Disruptions to normal life are widespread, with flood-like conditions reported in Kota, Bundi, and Sawai Madhopur. The Army, NDRF, and SDRF have been deployed for rescue operations.
Six killed, two missing as rain continues to batter parts of Rajasthan
JAIPUR: Six people, including four minors and a government school teacher, died in separate rain -related incidents as heavy to very heavy rain continued to batter parts of Rajasthan in the last 24 hours, leading to flood-like situations in many areas, officials said on Sunday. The weather department informed that in the last 24 hours till 8:30 am on Sunday Dausa logged the highest rainfall of 29 cm. Many other areas received rainfall below 29 cm during the same period. According to officials, several areas in Bundi, Sawaimadhopur and Kota districts are facing flood-like situations with rescue and relief works underway. In Jhalawar, four people including two government teachers were swept away in floodwaters while trying to cross a submerged low bridge in their car on Sunday. Despite warnings from locals, they attempted to drive through the overflowing water on Changeri Pullia, near Gagron fort, Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM) Abhishek Charan said. Upon receiving information from residents around 2 pm, a search operation was launched. The car was located 10-15 metres away in deep water around 5 pm. The official said that the bodies of -- Neeraj Singh Shekhawat (49), from Vijay Nagar in Ganganagar and teacher at a senior secondary school in Kudayla, and Hari Ballabh Khati (60) of Kudayla village -- were found on the back seat of the car. Two others, Venugopal, a teacher at the same school and resident of Sambhar in Jaipur, and Lekhraj Mali (35) of Kudayla village, who were on the front seats, are feared missing, he said. In view of the alert for very heavy rainfall, collectors in Jaipur, Nagaur, and Ajmer declared holiday for schools on Monday and Tuesday. Several areas in Jaipur faced waterlogging, as the city continued to reel under rain for the second consecutive day. Roads were inundated in many parts of the city with water levels reaching knee height. This disrupted traffic, causing inconvenience to commuters, especially in the Walled City areas. District Collector Jitendra Soni ordered all government and private schools to remain shut on Monday and Tuesday, given the forecast for heavy rain. Several areas also reported power outages due to faults in transformers and power lines. Barkat Nagar, Tonk Phatak and other areas faced electricity disruption multiple times on Saturday night, with the technical team taking nearly seven hours to resolve the issue. The Jaipur Development Authority decided to close two parks -- Kishan Bagh and Swarn Jayanti Park -- near Vidyadhar Nagar, for public from Monday to Wednesday, as waterlogging turned the parks into muddy zones. Four minors drowned in the rainwater-filled Kunwari mines of Dabok area in Udaipur on Sunday. The incident occurred when -- Laxmi Gameti (14), Bhavesh (14), Rahul (12) and Shankar (13) -- had gone to graze goats in the nearby fields, police said. Later, the four entered the mine to bathe and slipped into deep water, police said. After the incident, a large crowd of villagers gathered at the site. Upon receiving information police teams went to the spot and pulled out the bodies with the help of locals. Villagers and family members have demanded action against the mine owner, Assistant Sub-Inspector Manohar Singh Devda said. Water also entered a section of the Maharana Bhupal Singh Hospital in the city late Saturday. The weather department has predicted that the heavy rain may continue in some areas of the state for the next three to four days. Flood relief and rescue teams remained on the ground and assisted affected residents in Nagaur as several areas have been waterlogged. The district administration has issued advisories urging caution. Schools and anganwadi centers in Nagaur have been also been shut down on Monday and Tuesday as a precautionary measure. In Sawai Madhopur, several villages have been hit, particularly those downstream of the Surwal dam, which has overflowed. Villages including Surwal, Dhanoli, Gogor, Jadavata, Shesha and Machhipura are completely submerged, with hundreds of homes inundated. Residents are forced to evacuate, with many staying on rooftops, facing shortages of food and drinking water. The overflowing water has also submerged the Lalsot-Kota Mega Highway, affecting vehicular traffic and only tractors and trolleys able to traverse the route. Kalipaltan, Chatra Khatik, Kafila Bazar, Panch Batti, Dhannatlai and Kachahari Road in Tonk district have been severely affected due to the rain. MP Harish Chandra Meena inspected the situation and directed officials to ensure proper drainage and relief. MLA Rajendra Gurjar also conducted visits and reached flooded areas via tractor. SDM Shatrughan Gurjar's vehicle got stuck in a flooded road and he had to shift to a tractor.
Heavy rains wreak havoc in Rajasthan; Jaipur schools shut for two days
Rajasthan is grappling with incessant heavy rainfall, with Dausa recording a staggering 29 cm. Several districts, including Bundi, Sawaimadhopur, and Kota, are facing flood-like conditions, prompting rescue operations. Jaipur is experiencing severe waterlogging, leading to school closures and power outages. The weather center forecasts continued heavy rain for the next few days.
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A 200-foot-long portion of outer wall at UNESCO world site 'Amer Fort' located 11 kilometers Rajasthan's Jaipur, collapsed amid heavy rainfall. Watch video.
Daisy Shah revealed that once she stepped out, a local threatened her.
Portion of wall of Amer Fort in Jaipur collapses due to heavy rain
The officials said that the elephant ride in Amer Palace has been closed till further orders
Monsoon intensifies in Rajasthan, heavy rains disrupt life in several districts
JAIPUR : The monsoon has made a strong comeback in Rajasthan, with continuous heavy rainfall over the past 24 hours disrupting normal life in many parts of the state. After an active spell in July, rains had weakened in August, but the monsoon is now fully active again. The Meteorological Department has issued an alert for heavy to very heavy rainfall in 11 districts. Flood-like conditions have been reported in Kota, Bundi, Baran, Jhalawar, Tonk, Chittorgarh, and Sawai Madhopur districts. Flood conditions continue to persist in Sawai Madhopur district. NDRF and SDRF teams have been deployed in flood-affected areas. A tractor trolley full of NDRF personnel lost control and overturned on Surwal Mega Highway. The accident occurred while the team was going to help the flood victims. In Kota division, the Chambal river has swollen due to heavy inflows, forcing authorities to discharge water from Kota Barrage. By Saturday morning, the water level of the Chambal river had reached 132.80 metresnearly two metres above the danger mark of 130.79 metres. Transportation has been badly hit. The Jaipur-Kota highway near Deoli (Tonk) has been flooded, while traffic movement on the Delhi-Mumbai Expressway in Kota has been halted. Soil erosion along the Delhi-Mumbai railway track near Laban in Bundi forced trains to be stopped at nearby stations. Jaipur too witnessed heavy rain on Saturday afternoon. Authorities have opened six gates of Bisalpur Dam and two gates of Kota Barrage to release excess water. Schools have been closed in nine districts as a precaution, while NDRF, SDRF, and police teams have been deployed for relief and rescue operations. The flood situation remains critical in Sawai Madhopur. In one incident, a tractor trolley carrying NDRF personnel overturned on the Surwal Mega Highway while heading to assist flood-affected people. A jawan was briefly trapped under a boat loaded in the tractor but was rescued promptly by his colleagues. Fortunately, there was no loss of life. In Alwars Ramgarh area, tragedy struck when a house collapsed due to heavy rain, allegedly burying seven members of a family under debris. Locals managed to rescue them, but a young girl remains in critical condition. In Jaipur, a wall of Dil Aaram Bagh on the way to Amer Palace collapsed, though no injuries were reported. Explaining the sudden intensification of rainfall, Radheshyam Sharma, Director of the Meteorological Centre, Jaipur, said, The monsoon had been inactive for the past two weeks. With the trough line returning to its normal position, the monsoon became active again. A cyclonic system over the Madhya Pradesh-Rajasthan border remained stationary, leading to heavy rainfall in the southeastern parts of Rajasthan. Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma expressed concern over the situation and instructed officials to remain on high alert. He held discussions with district collectors of Tonk, Kota, Sawai Madhopur, Bundi, and Dausa, reviewing the ongoing relief and rescue efforts. The CM directed NDRF and SDRF teams to stay prepared and announced a special girdawari (crop survey) to assess damage to agriculture. He assured that relief will be provided quickly after evaluating losses to life and property.
200-Feet Wall Of Jaipurs Iconic Amer Fort Collapses Amid Heavy Rainfall | Video
A 200-foot wall of Amer Fort in Jaipur collapsed during heavy rainfall, causing panic. Torrential rains disrupted Rajasthan, with IMD issuing alerts for several districts.
Jaipur: 200-feet-long wall of Amer Fort collapses amid heavy rains - video
Heavy rains in Jaipur led to a dramatic collapse at Amer Fort on Saturday. A 200-foot-long section of the centuries-old wall crumbled under the relentless rainfall, sending water and debris cascading down the historic structure. The incident was captured in a video shared by PTI news agency.
Heavy rain triggers 200 ft wall collapse at Jaipurs Amer Fort
A 200-feet wall of Amer Fort in Jaipur collapsed on Saturday following continuous rainfall. A video released by PTI showed water rushing down the forts surface before the massive wall gave way, crashing into debris. The incident has raised fresh concerns about the upkeep of the centuries-old UNESCO World Heritage site, which attracts thousands of visitors daily.
Our Only Focus Is To Make Tamil Thalaivas Lift Their First-Ever Trophy: Arjun Deshwal
I have given a lot to Jaipur Pink Panthers and learnt a lot there as well. Although my team has changed, there isnt much of a difference as the coach (Sanjeev Baliyan) is still the same. Its important to have a strong understanding between a player and coach, and I have that advantage.
Rajasthan: Severe waterlogging in Sawai Madhopur after heavy rain
The Regional Met Centre of Jaipur has issued a yellow alert of hunderstorm, lightning and squall for the district for the next four days
Study finds high cancer incidence among women in Jaipurs polluted area
The surface water bodies in Sanganer town have a high pollution level with the toxic effluents coming from the textile and other units
Two sisters cycle 300 km to seek PMs help to save forest in Jaipur
Centre approves Rs 3,900 crore for education projects in Rajasthan
Rajasthan's school education is set for a boost. Jaipur will receive approximately Rs 3,900 crore from the central government. The funds will enhance infrastructure with ICT labs and smart classrooms. Science labs will also be established. This initiative aims to improve digital and science education. Students will gain access to better learning resources.
JAIPUR: Film producer Amit Jani, who has backed Udaipur Files based on the brutal murder of Kanhaiyalal, has once again received threatening comments on social media. Police have detained a youth in connection with the matter and launched an investigation. According to officials, Jani was recently admitted to a private hospital after complaining of chest pain during his visit to Ahmedabad and Udaipur for the films release. On being discharged on Wednesday, he alleged that Bangladeshi elements were trying to mislead locals and instigate violence against him. Like Kanhaiyalal, I am also being provoked to be murdered, he claimed. A threatening comment was allegedly posted by a man identified as Mohammad Shahid. Acting on Janis complaint, police detained Shahid for questioning. Jani further alleged that he received a chilling message reading, We are 700 meters away and will send tiffin, which he interpreted as a bomb threat. In another instance, a Bangladeshi youth named Hamad reportedly commented, Tiffin is expensive, send a knife. Superintendent of Police Yogesh Goyal confirmed that Shahid has been taken into custody and interrogated. We are probing whether these are simply online threats or connected to a larger network. Given the allegations of Pakistani and Bangladeshi links, the matter is being taken very seriously, he said. Police sources added that the threats have created an atmosphere of tension in Udaipur. Udaipur Files , directed by Bharat S Srinet and Jayant Sinha and produced by Amit Jani, features Vijay Raaz as Kanhaiyalal, with Rajneesh Duggal and Preeti Jhangiani in key roles. The film revisits the horrific incident of June 28, 2022, when tailor Kanhaiya Lal Teli was beheaded in Udaipur by two men after he shared a social media post supporting BJP spokesperson Nupur Sharma. The accused had filmed the act and circulated the video online, triggering nationwide outrage. The films release reignited political debate. Former Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot had accused the Centre of delaying justice to Kanhaiyalals family.
Jaisalmer youth held on charges of spying for Pakistan, fourth espionage case in 2025
JAIPUR: Investigation agencies in Rajasthan have arrested a 25-year-old man on charges of espionage in the Army area along the JaisalmerJodhpur road. The suspect, identified as Jeevan Khan, was detained on Tuesday while allegedly speaking on Pakistani phone numbers. Officials said several other Pakistani contacts were saved in his mobile phone. He will be handed over to the Joint Investigation Committee for interrogation. According to sources, Khan had earlier worked at a restaurant in the Army area two to three years ago and had recently returned for work. He had been under surveillance for some time, with his calls and movements closely monitored. On Tuesday, officials intercepted him while he was on a call with a Pakistani number. Following Operation Sindoor, security agencies have stepped up vigilance in Rajasthans border areas, keeping a close watch on individuals suspected of links with Pakistan. This marks the third espionage arrest since Operation Sindoor and the fourth case reported this year. Earlier this month, the arrest of DRDO guest house manager Mahendra Prasad in Jaisalmer had raised alarm among security agencies. Investigations revealed Prasad was in touch with a Pakistani handler using the name Colonel AK Singh and had shared sensitive information about scientists visiting the Chandan Field Firing Range guest house. He also allegedly provided photographs of the area and details of local activities during Operation Sindoor. He remains in police custody until August 15. Khans arrest adds to a series of espionage cases uncovered this year in Jaisalmer district. On 26 March, Rajasthan Intelligence arrested Pathan Khan, a resident of Karam Ki Dhani near the Chandan Field Firing Range, under the Official Secrets Act, days before the Pahalgam terror attack. On 28 May, investigators detained Shakoor Khan, a government employee and personal assistant to former Congress minister Saleh Mohammad, on similar charges and formally arrested him on 3 June. With four arrests in less than five months, intelligence and security agencies remain on high alert to prevent further spying attempts in Rajasthans sensitive border areas.
Children branded with hot iron rods in hostel in Rajasthans Barmer, spiritual teacher held
JAIPUR: A shocking case of inhuman torture has come to light from a hostel in Rajasthans Barmer district, where innocent children were allegedly branded with hot iron rods by their caretaker. The victims, aged between 8 and 10 years, were reportedly punished for bedwetting at night. The incident surfaced on Saturday night (August 16) when a child, groaning in pain, ran out of the hostel. His body was bleeding and bore burn marks on multiple parts, including his thigh. Villagers rushed him to his family, bringing the ordeal to light. Matters escalated on Tuesday after a video related to the incident went viral, prompting the family and locals to stage a protest outside the hostel. Police have since taken the caretaker into custody. Sedwa police station officer Deep Singh said, A complaint was received about the beating of children. The accused has been brought to the police station for questioning, and an investigation is underway. It is alleged that Narayangiri, a resident of Bharatpur who imparted his religious education at the hostel, regularly branded children with hot iron rods. Around 8 to10 children are believed to have been subjected to this form of torture. Local sarpanch Mohanlal revealed that complaints had been made against the accused in the past, but they were hushed up to protect the trust's reputation. He added, Now once again, an inhuman act has been committed on children. The Harpaleshwar Mahadev temple, built in 2008, started the residential hostel in 2022. About 25 children from nomadic, tribal, orphaned, and poor families live there, receiving education and religious training through the Gurukul system.
Jaipur Woman, Lover Arrested For Murdering Her Husband, Watched TV Show 'CID' To Get Ideas
Jaipur Police arrested a woman and her lover for killing her husband. The murder plot was inspired by crime shows like CID.
Appointment of IAS officers from general category sparks Raj row
JAIPUR: The appointment of four new IAS officers has triggered a major political uproar in Rajasthan. The Central Department of Personnel and Training (DoPT) on Monday promoted four officers of the Rajasthan Administrative Services -2020 batchDr Nitish Sharma, Amita Sharma, Narendra Kumar Manghani, and Naresh Kumar Goyalwho have all been inducted into the IAS cadre. However, controversy erupted after it was pointed out that all the newly-promoted officers belong to the general category, with no representation from SC, ST, OBC, MBC, or minority communities. LoP Tikaram Jully and Congress state president Govind Singh Dotasra launched a scathing attack on the BJP government, accusing it of sidelining social justice and ignoring eligible candidates from reserved categories. Jully called into question the intent of the BJP government: Why did the Rajasthan government not include any officer from Dalit, backward, tribal, or minority communities in this selection? Meanwhile, Dotasra termed the development as a clear display of casteist mentality.
Woman Watches Web Series On Crimes, Studies Murder Cases Before Killing Husband
Fed up of being subjected to physical assault and suspicion, a woman and her friends in Jaipur murdered her husband on Saturday.
HC rebukes Rajasthan govt over delay in panchayat polls
Jaipur: In a significant ruling, the Rajasthan High Court delivered a stern rebuke to the state government for delaying Panchayati Raj Institution (PRI) elections under the pretext of delimitation and has directed that a copy of the order be sent to the Chief Secretary and the State Election Commission for immediate compliance. Justice Anoop Kumar 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 .
Rajasthans Manika Vishwakarma crowned Miss Universe India 2025
JAIPUR: Rajasthans Manika Vishwakarma has been crowned Miss Universe India 2025, earning the opportunity to represent the country at the 74th Miss Universe competition, scheduled to be held in Thailand on 21 November 2025. Manika, who hails from Sri Ganganagar, described the win as a proud moment for Rajasthan and the nation. This achievement proves that dreams can take flight even from small towns, she said while addressing the media in Jaipur after her victory. Sharing her journey, Manika said she began from her hometown Ganganagar before moving to Delhi for preparations. We must instill confidence and courage in ourselves. Everyone had a big role in my success. I thank all those who supported me and made me capable of this, she said. She added that the competition is not just a stage but a world that builds character. In the finale, Tanya Sharma emerged as the first runner-up. The judging panel included Miss Universe India owner Nikhil Anand, actress and Miss Universe India 2015 Urvashi Rautela, and director Farhad Samji. Anand said that Jaipur was chosen as the host city for the finale to showcase and promote Indias art and culture. Bollywood actress and former Miss Universe India Urvashi Rautela was also present as a jury member in this prestigious competition. She said, The competition was very tough, but the winner is with us. We are very happy that we have got our winner. She will definitely make us proud in Miss Universe. The grand finale saw 48 contestants from across the countryincluding Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Haryana, Odisha, West Bengal, Jammu and Kashmir, Gujarat, Uttar Pradesh, Punjab, Maharashtra, Jharkhand, and Delhicompete for the prestigious crown. With this victory, Manika Vishwakarma will now prepare to raise Indias flag high on the international stage in Miss Universe 2025.
Drone woes and DGCA roadblock stall Rajasthans AI-powered artificial rain project
JAIPUR: The ambitious AI-driven cloud seeding project at Ramgarh Dam has encountered yet another obstacle, this time from the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA). The aviation regulator has withheld permission for drone operations at the required altitude of 10,000 feet, instead restricting flights to just 400 feet, a ceiling that experts argue renders the experiment practically unworkable. Touted as Indias first AI-powered artificial rain initiative, the project is fast becoming a source of embarrassment for the Rajasthan government due to repeated setbacks and delays. The formal launch was initially scheduled for 31 July, with Agriculture Minister Kirori Lal Meena set to inaugurate the operation. A series of demonstration sorties had been planned until 14 August, using a specially designed drone imported from Taiwan. The drone, resembling a light aircraft, was intended to ascend to 4 km above ground level and disperse sodium chloride particles into moisture-laden clouds, triggering rainfall over the Ramgarh Dam and its 10-kilometre catchment area. However, the launch was postponed after the India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued alerts for heavy rainfall in the region. When trials finally began, the project was quickly beset by technical and logistical issues. On 12 August, the first day of trials, a puja and havan were conducted at the dam site to invoke divine blessings. But the drone failed to take off. Officials blamed the failure on mobile network congestion caused by thousands of spectators, which allegedly interfered with the drone's GPS signal. Police were forced to disperse the crowd, but two additional attempts that day also failed. One trial ended before take-off, while another barely lifted the drone to 400 feet, far below the necessary altitude, and without any rainfall. The setbacks continued. On Sunday, the drone crashed during an initial attempt. The following day, it crashed again, this time in Gopalgarh village, roughly 3 km from the dam. With repeated crashes and unresolved altitude restrictions, serious doubts are now being raised about the projects feasibility. However, Agriculture Minister Kirori Lal Meena remains hopeful. I will meet Union Civil Aviation Minister K. Ram Mohan Naidu on behalf of the company executing the project to request the necessary permissions. Im told the drones must fly up to 10,000 feet, and were awaiting clearance from the DGCA, he told reporters. The pilot project is being implemented jointly by US- and Bengaluru-based firms, in collaboration with the Rajasthan government. Approximately 60 test flights are planned over the next two months. While the initial phase is being carried out free of cost, officials estimate the total project cost at around 2 crore. If successful, larger drones are expected to be introduced in later phases. The urgency behind Ramgarhs revival is linked to its historic and strategic importance. Built between 1897 and 1903 by Maharaja Sawai Madho Singh II, Ramgarh Dam was once Jaipurs primary source of drinking water and was officially declared a reservoir in 1978. It even hosted a boating event during the 1982 Asian Games. However, rampant encroachments and illegal construction in its catchment area have steadily choked natural inflows. The dam has remained completely dry since 2005, making artificial rain one of the last viable hopes for restoring its former glory.
In a dazzling ceremony held in Jaipur, Rajasthan, Manika was crowned Miss Universe India 2025. The grand finale of the Miss Universe India pageant was held on August 18.
Rajasthans Manika wins Miss Universe India 2025 crown, to represent India in Thailand
Jaipur: Manika Vishwakarma will now represent India at the prestigious Miss Universe 2025 competition, scheduled to be held in Thailand on November 21, as she won the grand finale of Miss Universe India 2025 held in Jaipur. From Rajasthan to the world stage, her victory has not only brought pride to Rajasthan but also raised 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 .
Mirrors that reflect and resonate indoors
Todays mirrors dont just flatter or tattle on wicked queens. They tell stories, bend space, and, with a flicker of light, pull a Beauty and the Beast trick turning a cramped corridor into a ballroom. From the shiny volcanic glass in ancient Anatolia 8,000 years ago, to the silver-backed showpieces of Egypt and Mesopotamia, mirrors have dazzled for a millennium. They have been symbols of life, glimpses of the soul, tools for fortune-telling, and magnets for superstition. Artists from Drer to Magritte and Manet have used them to play with perception, slipping us secret views of the world beyond the frames. Reflections that resonate In homes today, mirrors have stepped out of bathrooms and into living rooms, lobbies, and even Instagram grids, claiming the spotlight. Architect Iraianbu Murugavel calls them lively design features that blend practicality, beauty, culture, and creativity. For him, their magic comes from both material and placement. Traditional silver or aluminium-backed glass still rules, but acrylics, tinted and etched finishes, and even hand-polished metals are rewriting the rules. A well-placed mirror, he says, can transform mood and scale. A full-length panel behind a dining table turns a modest space into a buzzing hub, mirrored ceilings lift the height of urban flats, and mirrored wardrobes make storage disappear into light. For M Murali, chief architect at Murali Architects, mirrors are active design tools used to shape perception, guide movement, and evoke emotion. His team has drawn daylight deep into narrow corridors, brought sunsets indoors with angled panels, and doubled the lushness of terrace gardens using tempered outdoor mirrors to create secret courtyards. Tradition and storytelling Indias mirror magic has deep roots. Murali points to the Sheesh Mahal in palaces of Rajasthan, where walls and ceilings are inlaid with fragments that sparkle like jewels under oil lamps. In modern homes, these reappear as mosaic feature walls or mirrored ceilings. Harini Vijayakumar, founding partner at Studio ZO, is drawn to ainakari, the Mughal-era mirror work of Jaipur and Udaipur, where bits of glass form dazzling geometric patterns. She also treasures the centuries-old Aranmula Kannadi from Kerala hand-polished metal mirrors made without reflective coating; valued as much for their craftsmanship as their reflection. While the north embraced mirror mosaics for grandeur, the south used them sparingly to channel light, mark auspiciousness, and enrich rituals, says Murali. Architect Subhiksha Thiagarajan recalls the slanting mirrors fixed on ledges in old Tamil homes ingenious little panels that bounced courtyard daylight into the darker rooms beyond. The placement of these mirrors was also part of a practice rooted in Vasthu Sastra and the belief that it brings prosperity while warding off evil and negative energy. When too much is too much Mirrors can lift a rooms spirit, but if you overdo it, you risk restlessness. Iraianbu advises against placing mirrors directly opposite each other, keeping large mirrored surfaces to a single wall, and pairing them with matte textures to avoid visual overload. Murali compares them to spice. He says, Too much can be overwhelming. Overuse creates restlessness, clutter, or mild disorientation. Hes seen intimate spaces turn into mirror mazes, where constant movement becomes distracting. Harini also confesses to having felt unsettled once at the Kochi Biennale, where mirrored panels formed an uncanny maze. Subhiksha, however, sees it differently. I dont think theres ever a line. It depends on personal preferences. Antique pieces bring nostalgia, while clear glass enlivens. Frames and finishes shift a rooms mood sleek panels for modern minimalism, ornate carvings for tradition. Harini calls mirrors perky, bold choices that work across styles minimalist, boho, bling, modernist making spaces look infinite or almost kaleidoscopic. For Subhiksha, mirrors swing from extravagant to understated, carrying emotional weight. Mirrors can be styled in an extravagant and in an understated way. Either ways, I love the drama and the depth they create in spaces. Creative explorations In Tharun Vikass Mogappair home, Muralis mirrored ceiling crowns a double-height dining space, flooding it with light and stretching it skyward. Meals there feel expansive, interactive, and just a little theatrical. Subhiksha recalls framing mirrors for a functional training centre with hand-cut rosewood shaped into waves. Harini once revived a dark hallway with a Mondrian-patterned mirror wall that lit up the passage by day, without a single bulb. Murali looks outdoors for inspiration, too, pointing to Scotlands Garden of Cosmic Speculation, where mirrors merge landscape with sky. Mirrors are also constantly evolving with technology. Iraianbu predicts smart surfaces with built-in displays, adjustable tinting, and anti-microbial coatings. Harini imagines AI-driven mirrors that talk back. Subhiksha notes the growing ease with once-fragile free-standing designs. Murali envisions flexible, curved, eco-friendly panels with augmented reality overlays, all hinting at how mirrors will soon change not just how we see ourselves, but how we inhabit space.
Rajasthan: Man's body found stuffed in drum on rooftop; wife, children missing
JAIPUR: The body of a man was found stuffed in a drum on the rooftop of a house in Khairthal-Tijara district of Rajasthan, with his wife, three children and the landlord's son found missing, police said. The deceased was identified as Hansram alias Suraj, a native of Shahjahanpur district in Uttar Pradesh, who lived in Adarsh Colony of Kishangarhbas with his wife and three children, Deputy Superintendent of Police Rajendra Singh Nirwan said on Sunday. The body, bearing a throat injury inflicted with a sharp weapon, was discovered after neighbours complained of a foul smell. Salt had been put over the body to speed up decomposition, Nirwan said. Hansram had been living in a rented rooftop room for the past one-and-a-half months and worked at a brick kiln. His wife Sunita, their three children, and the landlord's son Jitendra have been missing since Saturday, police said. The deceased was addicted to liquor and often drank with Jitendra. Since Saturday evening, both Jitendra and Hansram's family have been untraceable, the DSP added. Police have launched a search for the missing persons. The body has been sent for postmortem and a case has been registered.
Tourists left high & dry in Ranthambore core tiger area after canter fails
JAIPUR: A group of tourists faced a terrifying ordeal during their safari at the Ranthambore Tiger Reserve on Saturday evening when their canter broke down inside Zone 6. The passengers, including women and children, were left high and dry in the forest for nearly an hour after the zone was officially closed, worried out of their wits as darkness fell. According to officials, canter number 2171 was allotted for an evening safari in Zone 6, an area where tigers Badal, Noor, and tigress Laxmi are frequently sighted. The vehicle suddenly malfunctioned, leaving the tourists stranded. Panic spread among the group, especially when the safari guide accompanying them left in another vehicle after instructing the passengers not to get down. However, he did not return for long, forcing the tourists into an anxious wait. During the ordeal, women raised concerns with the canter driver, while children were seen crying in the darkness. One of the tourists, requested help from another canter driver but was allegedly asked for extra money. He later managed to get a lift in a gypsy and reached the Rajbagh Naka forest post where he informed officials. Following this, a replacement canter was sent, and the stranded tourists were finally rescued around 7:30 pm. Chilling neglect The tourist party recorded two videos of the incident. The first video, filmed inside Zone 6, shows the broken canter in complete darkness, with only the light of a mobile phone visible. The second video was filmed at the Rajbagh Naka forest post, where tourists confronted forest officer Vijay Meghwal. In the video, a tourists are seen accusing the department of negligence, saying it took two and a half hours to send a replacement canter. The officer can be heard replying, Vehicles, machines break down, what to do? Taking the matter seriously, the forest department has banned the entry of three canter drivers found guilty in the incident. The accused guide Mukesh Bairwa has also been barred from entering the park.
Many people dont associate cities with trees. Trees within cities reduce heat, recharge the soil and water, and provide spaces for recreation Dol ka baadh, Jaipurs naturally grown forest reserve of some 105 acres that has taken root and thrived over the last three decades or thereabouts is the focus of a new battle that []
Retired Army officer killed in hit-and-run in Jaipur; accused driver gets bail
On August 15, retired Army Captain Narsa Ram Jajda was cycling on the Gandhi Path stretch in Jaipur, when an SUV mowed him down before speeding away
Jaipur Foot makers rehabilitate 24 lakh people since 1975
President Satish Mehta said the organisation will soon hold foreign camps in Tanzania, Nicaragua, Trinidad and Tobago, Guatemala, Sudan and Myanmar
JAIPUR: Mishaps in Rajasthans government schools simply refuse to stop. After last months tragedies in Jhalawar and Jaisalmer, which claimed the lives of eight students, a girl died after the balcony of an under-construction government school collapsed on her in Udaipur's Kotda. Taking swift action, the government has held local officials guilty of negligence. The accident took place on Independence Day at PM Shri Government Higher Primary School in Patharpadi village under Kotda police station. Strict measures have rapidly been initiated. Acting Assistant Engineer (AEN) Hem Singh has been suspended and the services of the contractual civil consultant have been terminated. In addition, instructions have been issued to register an FIR against the contractor firm, M/s Divyanshi Enterprises. Hem Singh, originally appointed as a Grade III teacher, had been working as an AEN for the past 11 years. JEN Anil Kashyap, who was drawing a salary of Rs 15,000, had been handling the technical monitoring of school buildings for nearly 22 years. Villagers allege that substandard materials were being used in the construction of the school. Following the incident, all construction work has been halted. Education Minister Madan Dilawar said the department acted immediately after taking cognisance of the matter and that a high-level probe is now underway. Questions have also been raised about the appointment of a teacher and a contractual worker instead of qualified engineers to monitor the work for the schools construction. Udaipur ADPC Nanihal Singh defended the decision, saying both officials held engineering diplomas and were deputed by higher authorities from Jaipur. He admitted, however, that while the AEN and JEN were directly responsible for site monitoring, he too shared accountability. The negligence lies with the contractor, which is why a case has been registered against him, Singh said. The accident occurred on Friday when the balcony of the under-construction building suddenly collapsed. One girl died on the spot, while another sustained serious injuries and was later shifted to Gujarat for treatment. Both girls were not students of the school. The deceased had come to her grandmothers house and, on Friday morning, was on her way to the toilet with a friend when the balcony collapsed, burying her under the debris. Eyewitnesses say the accident was caused by improper filling of the lintel and rather premature removal of shuttering. According to information, the Central Government had sanctioned Rs 75 lakh for the construction of the school building, which was to include seven rooms and other facilities. Work began in February and was scheduled to be completed by August 5, but remained unfinished. The contractor had already sought a two-month extension. Angry villagers blamed the tragedy on poor-quality construction material and said that if the school had been operational, the consequences could have been far worse. Police and administrative officials are stationed at the site, attempting to pacify the grieving family and agitated locals. This is not the first such incident in Rajasthan. Last month, seven children were killed when the roof of a government school collapsed in Jhalawar, sparking widespread criticism of the Education Department and the state government. Education Minister Madan Dilawar had accepted responsibility but deferred any further decision to Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma. Days later, another mishap occurred in Jaisalmer, where the gate of a government school collapsed, killing one child and injuring two others, including a teacher. On Independence Day, besides the Udaipur tragedy, a private school in Bundi also saw a major scare when its false ceiling collapsed, leaving five people injured. In light of these repeated incidents, the Congress has stepped up its attack on the state government. Leader of Opposition Tikaram Jully said these accidents expose the governments negligence and the dilapidated condition of school infrastructure. Calling it shameful that such a sensitive issue as the safety of children is being ignored, he demanded accountability over the incidents in Udaipur and Bundi. State Congress President and former Education Minister Govind Singh Dotasra was even more scathing, accusing the BJP government of being a killer of children. He said the tragedies in Jhalawar, Jaisalmer, and now Udaipur were the result of gross negligence by the Education Department and administration. Dotasra claimed this was the third major school-related accident in a single month in which innocent children lost their lives due to negligence by government authorities.
Caught On Cam: Retired Army Captain Mowed Down, Dragged By Speeding Car In Jaipur
The retired army officer was struck by a speeding car from behind, after which he was dragged to several feet in Jaipur.
Heavy rain likely in parts of Rajasthan in coming days
Parts of Kota, Ajmer, Jaipur, Bharatpur and Bikaner divisions are likely to experience light to moderate rain accompanied by thunder
Rajasthan Police apprehended several individuals for allegedly plotting terror attacks in Delhi and Gwalior on Independence Day. The accused are linked to the Nawanshahr blast and were operating under international handlers' guidance. Arrests were made in Jaipur and Tonk. The suspects are connected to the Lawrence Bishnoi gang and Zeeshan Akhtar, based in Canada.
Jaipur Diary | Ramgarh Dam rain plan left high and dry
Ramgarh Dam rain plan left high and dry Jaipur got a taste of tech comedy on Tuesday as Agriculture Minister Kirori Lal Meenas AI-powered drones triedand spectacularly failedto make it rain at Ramgarh Dam. The famous Ramgarh, once the biggest source of water for the Rajasthan capital, has turned dry in recent years. Thousands gathered for the grand puja and show that was slated to bring artificial rain to revive Ramgarh. However, the public ultimately ended up watching the drones wobble, crash, and produce zero drops. Officials blamed the crowd for disturbing GPS signals,. A similar attempt last month had to be postponed because of actual rain. Aides of Gehlot land him in trouble yet again Trouble keeps knocking at the door of ex-Rajasthan CM Ashok Gehlot, thanks to his close associatesfirst, an ex-OSD spilt explosive secrets to the media. Then, a security staffers name surfaced in whispers about the recruitment exam paper leak scam. Now, political circles are abuzz over his most trusted aide moving into a lavish, Vasant Vihar bungalow worth crores. Adding to the chatter are claims of a swanky Dubai property allegedly in a relatives name. Whether truth or mere rumour, the buzz refuses to die. As the saying goes, where theres smoke, theres fire and this political veteran may soon have to rethink his circle. Jaipurs elephants turn into fashion icons World Elephant Day saw Haathi Gaon near Jaipur transform into a vibrant open-air runway. Fifteen beautifully decorated elephants paraded with royal grace, delighting locals and tourists alike. The days star, birthday girl Jonali, basked in applause as she enjoyed her special cake. Yet, it was Chanda who stole the limelight, draped in a handcrafted jhool embroidered with lions, deer, and peacocks, along with 62 kilos of silver jewellery adorning her face, back, and legs. Painted in natural colours with floral and royal motifs, the gentle giants became living artworks. The show was a nod to Rajasthans timeless bond with its elephants.
Illegal betting app: ED freezes Rs 110 crore worth bank funds; seizes 1,200 credit cards
NEW DELHI: Funds worth Rs 110 crore kept in mule bank accounts have been frozen and 1,200 mule credit cards were seized following recent searches against the Indian operations of a Cyprus-based illegal online betting platform named Parimatch, the Enforcement Directorate said on Thursday. Parimatch app, as per the federal probe agency, gained visibility in the country through aggressive marketing, including sponsorship of sports tournaments and partnerships with well-known celebrities. It is alleged to have cheated investors luring them with high returns and generating more than Rs 3,000 crore in a year. They also set up Indian entities to run surrogate advertisements under the names 'Parimatch Sports' and 'Parimatch News'. Payments to these agencies were made via foreign inward remittances, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) said in a statement. The agency had conducted searches at 17 locations in Mumbai, Noida, Jaipur, Surat, Madurai, Kanpur and Hyderabad on August 12 as part of a case registered under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) against the operations of Parimatch. The ED case stems from an FIR filed by the cyber police station of Mumbai Police against parimatch.com for duping users through online betting. The agency said funds worth about Rs 110 crore kept in various bank accounts belonging to persons/entities used as mule accounts (bank accounts used for money laundering and similar criminal activities) and/or for layering purposes were frozen. More than 1,200 mule credit cards, found in a single premises during the searches, have also been seized, it said. Describing the alleged modus operandi deployed by the betting platform, the ED said it routed users' fund through mule accounts using different strategies across the country. In one case, it said, funds deposited by users into mule accounts were withdrawn in cash in a specific locality in Tamil Nadu. This cash was handed over to hawala operators, who used it to recharge virtual wallets of a UK-based company. These wallets were used to buy cryptocurrency in the name of mule crypto accounts, which were actually operated by Parimatch agents, it alleged. In western India, the ED said, Parimatch engaged services of domestic money transfer (DMT) agents. Funds collected in mule accounts controlled by these DMT agents were sent to Parimatch agents through payments made by mule credit cards. The ED said it found that payment companies whose application for payment aggregator licences were rejected by the RBI offered their services to Parimatch in garb of technology service providers (TSPs) and offered their API (application programming interface) to facilitate user fund collections. These TSPs offered the API to Parimatch agents who onboarded mule accounts opened in the name of e-commerce companies and payment solution provider companies for collection of funds from users, the ED probe found. The money so collected through UPI transfers was layered and transferred out in the garb of e-commerce refunds, chargebacks, vendor payments etc effectively concealing the actual flow and purpose of funds, it said.
JAJPUR: The Rajasthan government has categorically told the High Court it will not hold student union elections this academic session, citing the ongoing implementation of the National Education Policy (NEP) and fears raised by Vice-Chancellors that the polls could disrupt academic schedules and disturb campus environments. In its affidavit, the state argued that holding elections at this time is not feasible and referred to the Lyngdoh Committees recommendation that such polls be held within six to eight weeks of a sessions commencement a period that has already lapsed for the current session. The governments response included inputs from Vice-Chancellors of nine universities, all of whom opposed conducting the elections. They cited ongoing academic activities, adherence to NEP guidelines, and the need to maintain a conducive learning environment as reasons for the delay. On August 6, a meeting chaired by Additional Chief Higher Education Secretary was attended by Vice Chancellors of nine Government Universities and College Education Commissioner. All participants advised against holding the polls, warning that elections often disrupt classes and spoil the academic atmosphere. They also noted that both students and faculty members are still in the process of understanding NEPs provisions. The government further stated that the petitioners interests are not directly harmed by the decision, and therefore, their pleas should be dismissed. The petitions were filed by Rajasthan University student Jai Rao and others, who have demanded the immediate resumption of student union elections. The decision has triggered strong opposition from student organizations across the state. ABVP Central Working Committee member Bharat Yadav called the move wrong and urged the government to form a review committee. The Vidhyarthi Parishad will intensify the agitation. Student unions provide leadership not only in politics but in all walks of life. The government should take a positive decision, he said. NSUI state president Vinod Jakhar accused the BJP government of strangling democracy by stopping the elections. Student union elections are the nursery of youth leadership. Leaders emerge from here who shape society. We will fight this dictatorial decision from the streets to the assembly, Jakhar declared. It is notable that a few days ago, the NSUI staged a protest in Jaipur to gherao the Chief Ministers residence over the demand for student union elections. Congress general secretary and former Rajasthan deputy chief minister Sachin Pilot also joined the agitation. Jai Rao, a first-year MA student of Rajasthan University, filed his petition on July 24, arguing that electing student representatives is a fundamental right. He pointed out that elections have not been held for three consecutive sessions. The High Court, after hearing the matter on July 29, sought a reply from both the state government and the university administration. Meanwhile, student protests demanding elections have already taken place across several campuses in Rajasthan.
DRDO Jaisalmer guest house manager caught spying for Pakistan, arrested
JAIPUR: The guest house manager of Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), Jaisalmer, who was detained on suspicion of spying for Pakistan, was arrested by Rajasthan police on grounds of substantial evidence. Mahendra Prasad, the accused, was produced before a court in Jaipur and was sent to a two-day police remand. The accused, a resident of Uttarakhand's Almora, was posted as the manager of the DRDO guest house in Chandan area of Jaisalmer and was detained following intelligence inputs against him on August 4. After a joint interrogation in Jaipur, he was placed under arrest. Investigating officer Vinod Meena said that the accused had shared information related to missile testing and the movement of scientists with a Pakistani handler via social media. The accused had access to details regarding the visit of Indian scientists and DRDO officers to the firing range for various technical operations, including missile trials. Information about which scientists were coming and what kind of work they were doing was being shared by Mahendra with a Pakistani handler, he said. The officer said that Kumar was tracked over time and sufficient evidence was gathered. Following this, he was detained, interrogated and arrested. During interrogation, it was revealed that Mahendra had been in contact with Pakistani intelligence operatives via social media platforms for a long time. He had been passing on information about missile trials and DRDO activities to them, Meena said.
'Vote chor, gaddi chhod': Cong stages protest in Jaipur against alleged discrepancies in voter list
JAIPUR: The Rajasthan unit of Congress on Wednesday took out a march against the alleged discrepancies in voter list raised by party leader Rahul Gandhi. Led by state Congress president Govind Singh Dotasra, the protesters marched from the party headquarters here to the Shaheed Smarak, raising slogans like vote chor, gaddi chhod (vote thieves, vacate the throne) on the way. Addressing the party workers, Dotasra accused Prime Minister Narendra Modi of securing power through stolen votes. Votes are being cut under the name of SIR (Special Intensive Revision), while fake votes are being added to benefit the BJP. Rahul Gandhi has proved this, which is nothing short of an assault on the Constitution, Dotasra alleged. Former chief minister Ashok Gehlot accused the Election Commission of India of failing to take action to rectify the alleged errors in voter list. There are discrepancies in the voter list but the Election Commission is not providing any response. This is happening for the first time in history, Gehlot said. Congress highlights 'vote chori' with video, Kharge asks people to raise voice Calling the situation in Bihar alarming, Gehlot claimed an estimated 60 lakh votes were removed from the list in the poll-bound state without any explanation. In Bihar, 60 lakh votes were dropped from the list. Nobody knows whose votes were removed, and how many new votes were added, he alleged. This is the first time the Election Commission is creating such a situation. It is not just a local issue but a nationwide concern. The whole country should be worried about this, he added. Former deputy chief minister Sachin Pilot demanded the Election Commission take immediate steps to clear the doubts. The Commission must come forward and explain where the discrepancies occurred, Pilot said. The leader of opposition in Rajasthan Assembly, Tikaram Jully, and former minister Pratap Singh Khachariya also raised concern over the alleged irregularities in voter list.
'Vote Chor, Gaddi Chhod': Congress Protest Erupts in Jaipur Over Alleged Voter List Discrepancies
Addressing the party workers, Dotasra accused Prime Minister Narendra Modi of securing power through stolen votes.
A team in Jaipur has performed Indias first electrosurgical valve-in-valve mitral intervention, informally known as the Batman Procedure, offering a minimally invasive option for very high-risk patients with failed mitral valves.
Rajasthan: Pickup van carrying pilgrims crashes in Dausa leaves 11 dead
Jaipur: A pickup van crashed into a parked truck in Rajasthans Dausa district in the early hours of Wednesday, killing 11 people, including seven children, and injuring eight others, police said. The passengers of the pickup vehicle were returning to their village in Uttar Pradeshs Etah after visiting Khatu Shyam and Salasar Balaji temple when 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 .
Seven children among 11 killed as pickup van rams into truck in Rajasthan's Dausa
JAIPUR: A pickup van crashed into a parked truck in Rajasthan's Dausa district in the early hours of Wednesday, killing 11 people, including seven children, and injuring eight others, police said. The passengers of the pickup vehicle were returning to their village in Uttar Pradesh's Etah after visiting Khatu Shyam and Salasar Balaji temple when the accident occurred on Manoharpur highway around 4-5 am, Dausa Superintendent of Police Sagar told PTI. Those killed include seven children and four women, he said. Twenty people were on board the pickup vehicle when it rammed into a stationary truck in the service lane of the highway, the SP said, adding that one of the eight injured is in critical condition.
PM Modi to inaugurate UER-II, Dwarka Expressway on Sunday
Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to inaugurate the 76-km UER-II and the 29-km Dwarka Expressway on Sunday, key components of Delhi's decongestion plan. These access-controlled highways aim to alleviate congestion on Delhi's Ring Road and arterial routes, ensuring seamless travel for vehicles from Chandigarh towards IGI airport, Gurgaon, and Jaipur.
Rajasthan HC annuls marriage; rules concealment of schizophrenia fraud under Hindu Marriage Act
JAIPUR: The Rajasthan High Courts Jaipur bench has delivered a significant verdict, annulling the marriage of a woman suffering from schizophrenia. The court held that hiding the womans serious mental illness from the husband and his family before marriage amounted to fraud under Section 12(1)(c) of the Hindu Marriage Act, 1955. The division bench of Justice Inderjit Singh and Justice Anand Sharma observed that schizophrenia is not merely temporary mental depression but a serious psychological disorder which, in its active state, can prevent a person from leading a normal married life. Concealing such a condition, the court said, is equivalent to hiding a fundamental fact necessary for marriage. Referring to earlier Supreme Court rulings, the court held that the wifes illness was an important marital fact for the purpose of marriage, and hiding it constituted clear fraud upon the husband. Applying this legal principle, the court declared the marriage void and freed the husband from all criminal and financial liabilities, including alimony and dowry harassment cases. The case originated from a marriage solemnised on April 29, 2013, between a man from Chittorgarh and a woman from Kota. Shortly after the wedding, the husband noticed abnormal changes in his wifes behaviour. She displayed unusual actions, and her hands would often tremble. While going through her belongings, he found a doctors slip indicating she was already receiving treatment. The husband alleged that she had been suffering from schizophrenia before marriage and that this fact was deliberately hidden from him and his family. He also claimed that, due to her illness, consummation of the marriage was not possible. The wife, on the other hand, denied having any serious mental disorder, stating she had only suffered temporary depression following a family accident shortly before the marriage. She accused her husband and in-laws of demanding dowry and harassing her. The husband filed a petition under Section 12 of the Hindu Marriage Act, 1955, seeking to have the marriage declared void. In 2019, the Kota family court dismissed his plea. He then appealed to the Rajasthan High Court, Jaipur bench. After an extensive review of records, witness statements, and medical evidence, the court concluded that the wife had been suffering from schizophrenia before marriage and was under medication. The bench ruled that such concealment amounted to hiding a material fact, which directly impacts marital life and constitutes a valid ground for declaring a marriage void under the Hindu Marriage Act. The high court declared the marriage null and void ab initio and absolved the husband of all criminal charges and financial responsibilities.
On World Elephant Day, A Fashion Show, Birthday Cake, 15 Happy Pachyderms
Fifteen elephants and a fashion parade, and some cake too. In the 'elephant village' in Jaipur there were special celebrations to mark World Elephant Day.
Punjab Police arrest five alleged BKI operatives from Rajasthan, seize arms, ammunition
CHANDIGARH: The Punjab Police has busted a Babbar Khalsa International (BKI) terror module with the arrest of five operatives, including three juveniles, from Tonk and Jaipur districts of Rajasthan, in what officials said was a Pakistan ISI-backed terror network. Director General of Police, Punjab, Gaurav Yadav said that the Counter Intelligence (CI) unit of Jalandhar, in a joint operation with SBS Nagar Police, arrested the suspects in a module operated by foreign-based handlers Mannu Agwan, Gopi Nawanshehria and Zeeshan Akhtar, on the directions of Pakistan-based BKI operative Harwinder Singh alias Rinda. Those arrested have been identified as Ritik Naroliya, a resident of Didawata village in Jaipur, Rajasthan; Sonu Kumar alias Kali, a resident of Kala Sanghian village in Kapurthala; and three juveniles. The police teams also recovered one 86P hand grenade and one .30 bore pistol along with two live cartridges and two empty shells. Yadav said the module had planned an attack inside a liquor store in SBS Nagar recently. It is worth mentioning that the same module had allegedly carried out a grenade attack at a liquor store in SBS Nagar on August 7. He further stated, The arrested accused were receiving direct instructions from foreign-based Zeeshan Akhtar and BKI mastermind Mannu Agwan, who is working in close coordination with Pakistan-based BKI operative Harwinder Rinda. We have successfully averted further planned attacks by this terror module. He added that the probe was ongoing to establish forward and backward linkages in the case. Sharing more details, AIG Counter Intelligence, Jalandhar, Navjot Mahal said that in an intelligence-led operation, all the five accused were arrested from areas in Tonk and Jaipur districts of Rajasthan. He added that during a follow-up recovery operation, the arrested accused Sonu alias Kali attempted to open fire at the police party. In self-defence, the police party retaliated, resulting in a bullet injury to accused Sonu alias Kali, he said, adding that the injured accused was immediately shifted to the Civil Hospital in SBS Nagar, where he is undergoing treatment. In this regard, an FIR under sections 109, 324(5) and 61(2) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) and sections 3, 4 and 5 of the Explosive Substances Act has been registered at Police Station City Nawanshahr.
Rajasthan Launches Indias First Drone-Based Artificial Rain Trial At Ramgarh Dam
State Agriculture Minister Dr. Kirodi Lal Meena to inaugurate cloud seeding project with 60 drone test flights in Jaipur
NEW DELHI: Jaipur traders staged a strong protest against United States President Donald Trumps decision to impose steep additional tariffs on Indian goods in Rajapark's main square. Vendors from the citys main market carried placards condemning the US and Trump, announcing a complete boycott of American products. In a symbolic act, they allegedly burned an effigy of Trump along with US-made goods, even setting fire to US dollar notes. The Trump administrations revised tariff policy has delivered a heavy blow to Rajasthans exporters. The move imposes an immediate 25% duty, with an additional 25% levy on the way, a combined 50% hit on key export sectors like gems and jewellery, handicrafts, and textiles, where Rajasthan holds a dominant share. Ravi Nayyar, President of Rajapark Vyaapar Mandal, said, Jaipurs business organisations have asked all citizens to boycott US products, and we want to give a strong message that because of the arrogance of US President Donald Trump, irrational tariffs have been imposed on us. With 17,000 crore of the states annual exports dependent on the US market, exporters warn this reliance is turning into a liability. Finding new markets will take time, and the immediate risk is to the livelihoods of nearly seven lakh artisans and workers employed in US-focused export units. Industry bodies have urged the government to roll out urgent support measures. Navinit Jhalani, coordinator of the Rajasthan Handicrafts Exporters Joint Forum, said uncertainty has gripped both US buyers and local exporters. We have only 21 days, until 28 August, to ship goods to the US without the additional 25% penalty, he explained. With Raksha Bandhan and Independence Day holidays, meeting this deadline is near impossible. Orders ready after this date are being put on hold by American buyers. US tariffs on Indian oil imports from Russia a 'big blow' to Moscow: Trump Jaipur, Indias gems and jewellery powerhouse, is staring at deep losses. Import duties had already risen from 5.5% to 15.5% earlier this year; the new hike will push many exporters to the brink. Sanjay Kala, former president of the Jewellers Association, said the US accounts for Rs 11,000Rs 12,000 crore of Rajasthans Rs 17,500 crore gems and jewellery exports, most from Jaipur. Around 1.5 lakh people work in this sector in Jaipur, and up to 95% may feel the impact, he warned. Kala noted that while India now faces a 50% tariff, competitors like Turkey, Vietnam, Thailand, and the UAE enjoy lower rates of 1020 per cent, making Indian products uncompetitive. Some manufacturers are already considering shifting production abroad, he said. Jodhpur, a leading exporter of wooden furniture and metal handicrafts, sends Rs 2,500 crore worth of goods to the US annually, more than half its total exports. The tariff hike threatens the livelihood of nearly one lakh artisans and workers. With competitors like Turkey and Mexico facing just 10% tariffs, our products could be priced out of the market, said Dr Bharat Dinesh, president of the Jodhpur Handicraft Exporters Association. The Centre must act fast to safeguard MSMEs and open talks with the US. Trumps 50 per cent tariff threat puts Indias gem and jewellery exports at risk: GJEPC chief Kirit Bhansali Bikaners famed wool industry, with 250 units producing 11.5 lakh kg of yarn daily, faces a severe blow. This yarn is used in carpets exported worldwide, especially to the US via Bhadohi. The 50% tariff threatens to snap this supply chain, impacting about one lakh people directly or indirectly linked to the sector. Udaipurs quartz industry, which supplies 4045% of Rajasthans exports to the US in this category, will suffer as buyers turn to cheaper suppliers in Vietnam, Turkey, and Brazil. The citys marble exporters, already hit by a slowdown, now face uncertainty over shipments worth Rs 100 crore annually. Kota stone and sandstone exports worth Rs 200 crore annually could lose buyers to other markets as US costs rise. The Hadoti regions coriander, dairy products, chemicals, and de-oiled cake exports are also at risk, potentially affecting Rs 250 crore in trade. Rajiv Arora, president of the Federation of Rajasthan Exporters, urged the Centre to expand production-linked incentive schemes and provide targeted relief for affected sectors. If we dont act fast, the economic and social fallout could be severe, he said.
Indias First Drone-Based Rain Trial For Drought Relief In Jaipur Today | All You Need To Know
Agriculture Minister Dr Kirodi Lal Meena will inaugurate the trial at 2 pm, said officials, adding that many industry experts will oversee the initiative.
These 5 cities in Rajasthan will steal your heart and heres why each has its own colour!
Rajasthan, a land of vibrant colours, boasts cities with unique hues reflecting their heritage. Jaipur, the Pink City, welcomes visitors with terracotta buildings, while Jodhpur, the Blue City, features indigo houses. Bikaner, the Red City, showcases reddish-pink sandstone architecture. Udaipur, the White City, offers serene marble elegance, and Jaisalmer, the Golden City, glows with yellow sandstone, creating breathtaking experiences.
Alarming rise in crimes against minors and women in Rajasthan sparks political debate
JAIPUR: Rajasthan is witnessing a disturbing rise in crimes against minors and young girls. According to data released by the state Police Headquarters, over 200 cases of gang rape were registered between January and June 2025. Tragically, five girls were even murdered after being raped during this period. The data also reveals more than 600 reported cases of sexual harassment, highlighting a growing threat to womens safety across the state. Families are increasingly worried, with many parents expressing fears in sending their daughters to school or college. Crimes related to dowry harassment further underscore the insecurity women face, even within their own homes. In total, 19,600 criminal cases involving various atrocities against women were registered until June this year. Police investigations led to charge sheets being filed in 5,359 cases. However, 4,790 cases resulted in First Information Reports (FIRs) being filed, out of which 4,613 were later closed as false. The police were unable to investigate 9,451 cases. Specially concerning cases under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, 1,631 were registered. Of these, 186 were found to be false, and FIRs were filed in 14 cases for other reasons. Chargesheets were submitted in 744 cases, while investigations are ongoing in 707 cases. The disclosure of these figures has ignited political controversy in the state. Former Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot took to X to question the current government, writing, What is happening, Chief Minister? Please pay attention. Tensions escalated further on the occasion of Raksha Bandhan, when a woman in Ajmer was murdered by her husband, who is a BJP leader. Gehlot expressed deep concern over the incident, accusing the government of failing to maintain law and order. In response, BJP Social Justice and Empowerment Minister Avinash Gehlot strongly condemned the politicisation of crimes against women. He said, It is very unfortunate to use crimes against women as a political tool. There has been a 10% reduction in criminal cases under the Bhajanlal government, which shows how seriously we take womens safety compared to the previous administration. It is regrettable that Congress leaders are politicizing a womans death. The escalating crime rates and the sharp political dispute underline the urgent need for effective measures to protect women and minors in Rajasthan
Independence Day Long Weekend Trips: Top getaways near Delhi NCR for a quick escape
Independence Day 2025 Best Places to Visit Near Delhi Delhi NCR: This Independence Day long weekend offers a perfect opportunity to escape Delhi's hustle. Explore nearby destinations like Mathura-Vrindavan for spiritual retreats, Agra for historical sites, or Neemrana for luxurious stays. Jaipur's royal charm and Rishikesh's blend of adventure and spirituality provide diverse options for a memorable getaway, catering to varied interests and preferences.
ICMAI CMA toppers 2025: Hans Amresh secures first rank in June Final exam, check list of top 10 here
The Institute of Cost Accountants of India (ICMAI) has announced the CMA June 2025 Intermediate and Final exam toppers, with Hans Amresh from Surat securing the first rank. The top 10 list features candidates from cities including Mumbai, Jaipur, Faridabad, and Bangalore, reflecting wide geographic representation and notable female participation in this years merit rankings.
Watch: Russian Woman's Desi Trick To Cross Busy Road In Jaipur Goes Viral
The video shows Vera Prokofeva teaching her friend how to cross the road in India.
The IMD will set up the wind profilers in 10 locations Amritsar, Jaipur, Ahmedabad, Patna, Varanasi, Lucknow, Mohanbari, Bhubaneswar, Calicut, and Thiruvananthapuram
Dental care unit inaugurated under NHPCs CSR initiative
Excelsior Correspondent JAIPUR, Aug 10: Under CSR initiative of NHPC, a fully equipped dental care unit was today inaugurated at Apaji Arogya Mandir Hospital, Banasthali Vidyapith, Rajasthan. The unit was inaugurated by Uttam Lal, Director (Personnel), NHPC. The facility reflects the companys continued focus on strengthening grassroots healthcare. This initiative is designed to provide accessible and affordable dental healthcare to underprivileged rural communities especially women, enhance the local healthcare infrastructure by addressing critical gaps in dental services and promote oral [] The post Dental care unit inaugurated under NHPCs CSR initiative appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Jaipur Cop Killed in Speeding Car Collision on Jaipur-Sikar Highway
Constable Rajendra Kumar Samota dies en route to duty; driver identified through CCTV footage
'Udaipur Files' released in 4,500 theatres, Kanhaiyalals sons attend emotional first screening
JAIPUR: The film 'Udaipur Files', based on the tragic murder of Kanhaiyalal Sahu in Udaipur that made national headlines in June 2022, was released across 4,500 theatres nationwide on Friday. The censor board cleared the film, which stars Vijay Raaz, after making 55 cuts. Kanhaiyalals sons, Yash and Tarun Sahu, attended the first screening at Udaipurs Urban Square Mall. They were visibly emotional and broke down during the throat-slitting scene that recreated their fathers brutal killing. Their mother did not attend the screening, choosing not to relive the trauma. During the show, Yash and Tarun carried a photograph of their father and left an empty seat in his memory. The films release was marked by tight security in the city, with extra police forces deployed in sensitive areas and special teams stationed at 21 check posts. Speaking to the media, Yash Teli said, After a long and difficult struggle, the film has finally reached audiences. It was challenged at multiple levels from the High Court to the Supreme Court and the Central Government. The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting cleared it after confirming it did not target any community. Yash added that his family has been fighting for justice for the past three years without success. Through this film, we want to show our pain to the country. It tells the truth about the injustice done to my father. I hope people watch it and support us in our fight for justice, he said. Explaining why his mother stayed away from the premiere, Yash said, We decided not to bring her this time. She has already suffered a lot. In the past, watching such portrayals caused her immense distress. He also criticized what he called terrorist-minded people and organizations that, in his view, provide legal aid to terrorists and demanded that such groups be banned. The film is directed by Bharat S. Srinet and Jayant Sinha, produced by Amit Jani, and features Vijay Raaz as Kanhaiyalal. Rajneesh Duggal and Preeti Jhangiani play key roles. Udaipur murder case sparks fresh political criticism over justice delay On June 28, 2022, Kanhaiyalal Teli, a tailor by profession, was beheaded by two Muslim men in Udaipur, Rajasthan. The attackers filmed the act and circulated the video online. Kanhaiyalal had shared a social media post supporting BJP spokesperson Nupur Sharma, whose remarks had sparked the Muhammad remarks controversy. The release of 'Udaipur Files' has reignited political debate. Former Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot once again accused the central government of failing to provide justice to the victims family. Last month, Gehlot criticized Union Home Minister Amit Shah during his visit to Jaipur, questioning the delay in justice. Rajasthan Police arrested the accused within four hours. Both had links with the BJP. Yet the NIA, under your ministry, took over the case overnight and we did not object, Gehlot wrote on social media. He pointed out that in three years, the NIA court has not delivered a verdict because it does not have a regular judge. It is a failure of the Centre and the NIA that only 6 out of 166 witnesses have testified. No special or fast-track court has been formed. The case is currently being handled as an additional charge by the CBI court, he said.
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Raksha Bandhan Special Train list 2025: These trains will connect key routes like Mumbai, Nagpur and Patna. Services include one-time trips and daily operations. Passengers can travel from Bhagat Ki Kothi to Bandra Terminus. Jaipur and Hisar will also have special train connectivity. Book your tickets soon for a comfortable journey.
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