Asaram surrenders after HC refuses to extend interim bail
Asaram Bapu, the self-styled godman convicted of rape, has surrendered at Jodhpur Central Jail after the Rajasthan High Court refused to extend his interim bail, which was initially granted due to medical reasons in January. The court dismissed his plea, citing a medical report indicating his stable health and no need for hospitalization, despite his lawyer's arguments about deteriorating health.
Hubballi gets direct train to Jodhpur from Sept 28
Hubballi-Jodhpur special train from Sept. 28
Rajasthan HC asks DGP to explain why his subordinates fail to perform statutory duties
JODHPUR: The Rajasthan High Court has sought an explanation from the Director General of Police on why his subordinates are consistently failing in discharging their statutory duties. The single bench of Justice Farjand Ali, while seeking an affidavit of compliance on or before the next hearing on September 12, expressed strong displeasure over police officers not appearing in court to give testimony in a petition by Kuldeep Singh. The state government's counsel informed the court that despite repeated efforts by the trial court, prosecution witnesses, especially police officers who play an important role in the recovery, are not appearing in court to give testimony. He stated that even arrest warrants have been issued against some police officers, but those warrants have not yet been executed. On this, the court took a strong objection, commenting that nothing could be more shameful for a democratic system wherein a serving police officer, who is posted somewhere in the state and performing public duty, cannot be arrested despite an arrest warrant against him. Noting that this situation shakes public faith in the judicial system and erodes society's trust in the rule of law, the court sought an explanation from the Director General of Police (DGP) as to why his subordinate officers are consistently failing to perform their statutory duties, and why a police officer could not be arrested despite an arrest warrant against him. The DGP was told to submit an affidavit in this regard.
Swiggy's Food on Train service is now available at over 115 stations. This covers 28 states and union territories. A trend of ordering food for loved ones on trains is emerging. Passengers can order from 6 am to 11 pm. The service includes new stations and regional delicacies. Ordering is simple via the Swiggy app using the PNR number.
Illegal migration may figure high on RSS agenda at Jodhpur meet
Not Just A Startup Accelerator - Marwari Catalysts Success Through Social Impact
Marwari Catalysts (MCats) group is a family of fund backed by accelerator and venture studio, headquartered in Jodhpur. With 100+ startups, 5,000+ jobs created, and 35% women-led ventures, MCats has become a symbol of Bharat's shift from metro-driven entrepreneurship to a grassroots-to-global social impact movement.
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.
The incident comes hot on the heels of a gruesome murder in Greater Noida where a woman was burnt alive by her husband and mother-in-law after years of dowry harassment. Both of them along with other members of the family have since been arrested. Read on to know more.
School Lecturer In Jodhpur Sets Self, Daughter On Fire; Suicide Note Points To Dowry Abuse
A woman set herself ablaze along with her three-year-old daughter alleging dowry harassment by husband, in-laws, and Ganpat Singh. FIR registered, probe ongoing.
Jodhpur Lecturer Sets Herself, Daughter On Fire, Note Points To Dowry Harassment
A school lecturer set herself on fire along with her three-year-old daughter in Rajasthan's Jodhpur district on Friday.
Still haven`t reached the mark in education sector: Rajnath Singh
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Monday highlighted the progress and challenges in Indias education sector under the New Education Policy (NEP). Speaking at Jodhpur, he said reforms have improved learning and holistic development, but further efforts are needed to reach the desired standards, crediting PM Modi for these initiatives.
Indias Operation Sindoor a Precision Strike Against Terror: Rajnath Singh
SRINAGAR: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Sunday hailed Operation Sindoor as a befitting reply to Pakistan, asserting that the Indian Armed Forces struck targets with precision in retaliation for the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack that claimed 26 civilian lives. Addressing a programme in Jodhpur, as per NDTV, Singh said Indian soldiers did not target []
JODHPUR: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Monday asserted that Indian forces gave a efitting reply to Pakistan during Operation Sindoor and our soldiers did not kill terrorists based on their religion, but because of their deeds. Addressing an event Here, Singh also lauded the people of border areas for supporting the administration and the armed forces during the military operation to avenge the Pahalgam terror attack. The Defence Minister said that after the incident, he called the service chiefs and asked if they were ready for the operation. The chiefs of all three armed forces unanimously replied, 'We are ready for any operation.' This is India. The prime minister gave the necessary directives, he said. The target that was decided was hit precisely, just as planned. During Operation Sindoor, our forces received full support from all border regions. India is a country that not only considers people within its borders as members but also regards people across the world as part of its family, spreading the message of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam. India does not discriminate based on caste or religion. However, terrorists killed people after identifying their religion. Our soldiers did not kill the terrorists based on religion but because of their deeds, he said. Under Operation Sindoor in May, precision strikes were carried out on multiple targets in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir linked to terror groups. The operation aimed at destroying terror infrastructure and neutralising key operatives following the April 22 Pahalgam attack. Lauding Prime Minister Narendra Modi's efforts in the education sector, Singh said a significant transformation had taken place over the years that will help the country achieve new heights. There is a considerable difference between the education of our time and today's education. I had also studied in a village primary school. When I used to look at the globe on the principal's table, it felt like a magical ball, he said. He attributed the changes to decades of hard work, saying, In recent years, there have been significant changes in education. Today, our children can access information on the internet. Such a huge transformation has taken place. Singh expressed gratitude toward Prime Minister Modi, saying, I want to thank Modi for showing a strong resolve to improve the education sector. Bringing reforms in education was not an easy task. Several commissions were formed and recommendations were given but the kind of reform that was needed did not come. He said that today's children can acquire information from an app about the entire world. In our time, science meant only the blackboard, he said. Singh said that the visible difference in the education sector is India's real strength. This is the real change and this is the future of India. This will take our country to even greater heights, he said. Elaborating on India's history, he said that when people in other parts of the world were living in caves, Indian sages were writing the Natya Shastra. When the world did not understand the causes of diseases, India had doctors like Sushruta. Knowledge of medicinal plants like turmeric, neem and ashwagandha existed, which scientists now acknowledge, he said. Singh also touched upon the concept of spiritual growth, saying that the importance of balancing physical and spiritual development in children's education was important. He said that children's development should not only be physical but also spiritual. Spiritual development can only happen through educational institutions. Give children education that will expand their minds, he said. He quoted former prime minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee, saying, No one becomes great with a small mind. No one stands tall with a broken heart. Indian sages' minds were so vast that they considered everyone in the world as part of their family and spread the message of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam, he said. Imagine the mind as a circle. As you expand its circumference, your experience of happiness increases in proportion. In the end, you will attain supreme bliss, he said. During the event, he inaugurated a sports academy in Jodhpur. Union minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat and other leaders were also present on the occasion.
Indian Forces Gave Befitting Reply To Pakistan During Operation Sindoor: Rajnath Singh
Jodhpur, Aug 25: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Monday asserted that Indian forces gave a befitting reply to Pakistan during Operation Sindoor, hitting targets with precision. Our soldiers did not kill terrorists based on their religion but on the basis of their deeds, he said while addressing a programme here. Our forces responded strongly in Operation Sindoor.The target that was decided was hit precisely, Singh said He said India believes in the principle of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam and does not discriminate [] The post Indian Forces Gave Befitting Reply To Pakistan During Operation Sindoor: Rajnath Singh appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
After North, adverse weather triggers pest attack on cotton crops in South India
NEW DELHI: After North India, cotton crops in South India are now grappling with a severe pest outbreak triggered by abnormal weather, raising fears of reduced yields and further decline in the countrys overall cotton production. Prolonged monsoon spells and high humidity in August have led to a surge in boll rot disease across cotton fields in Andhra Pradesh. According to experts, this years outbreak is more severe than in recent years, with scientists recommending integrated pest management practices advised by the Central Institute of Cotton Research (CICR). A field survey under the governments Project Bandhan found boll rot thriving in moist conditions, damaging standing crops and raising concerns over yield loss, fibre quality deterioration and economic strain for Kharif 202526 growers. The survey was conducted by the South Asia Biotechnology Centre (SABC), Jodhpur, in collaboration with KVK (Krishi Vigyan Kendra) Banavasi and confirmed widespread incidence in Kurnool and other cotton-growing areas of Rayalaseema. Dr C D Mayee, cotton epidemiologist and president of SABC, said, For the first time in a decade, the economic threshold level of boll rot has crossed the severe outbreak mark of 20% in Kurnool district. Mayee added that the disease has long been recognised as one of the most economically damaging for cotton in South-Central India. Dr Dilip Monga, former head of ICAR-Central Institute For Cotton Research, noted that incessant rains have worsened boll rot severity, with leaf spot cases also rising in recent years. Farmers have been advised to adopt combined cultural practices, balanced crop nutrition, prophylactic measures and integrated pest management for sustainable control. Andhra Pradesh contributes about 10% of Indias cotton production, with Kurnool serving as a key hub. The outbreak comes just weeks after farmers in North India reported leafhopper (jassid) infestations in Punjab, Haryana, and Rajasthan. Adding to farmer distress, the Centre recently scrapped the 11% import duty on cotton, leading to cheaper imports from the US.
RSS Akhil Bharatiya Samanvay Baithak meeting to be held in Jodhpur from 57 September
The Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) will organise its annual three-day coordination meeting in Jodhpur, Rajasthan, from 5 to 7 September. Representatives from 32 RSS-linked organisations, including the BJP, will take part. Each group will present yearly reports, while discussions may also cover the appointment of a new BJP President, international trade issues and the centenary year preparations of the RSS. Ahead of this, RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat will address a separate programme at Vigyan Bhavan in Delhi on 26 and 28 August.
3-Day National RSS Meet in Jodhpur from Sept. 5
The Baithak, organised once a year, brings together selected office-bearers from 32 RSS-inspired organisations. Last year, it was held in Palakkad, Kerala, in September 2024.
Sikkim: ED Raids 31 Sites, Nabs MLA in Betting Scam
HT DIGITAL GANGTOK, AUGUST 24: The Directorate of Enforcement (ED), Bengaluru Zonal Office, conducted a two-day search operation on August 22 and 23 at 31 locations in India. The operations were carried out in Gangtok, Chitradurga, Bengaluru, Hubli, Jodhpur, Mumbai and Goa. The action was under the investigation against K.C. Veerendra, an MLA from the []
Another Air India flight aborts take-off, over technical snag, third such incident this week
NEW DELHI: The cockpit crew of an Air India flight from Mumbai to Jodhpur, carrying 110 passengers, decided to abort their take-off on Friday after detecting an operational issue at the last minute. This is the third Air India flight this week to be discontinued at the eleventh hour due to various issues. Passengers suffered a 3.5-hour delay at the Mumbai airport. The journey time for this route is just an hour and 50 minutes. The flight was brought back to the parking bay and the flyers deboarded. They boarded an alternative aircraft arranged by the airline at 12.36 pm after the security checks were redone. The Airbus (A319-112 series) aircraft was scheduled to depart at 9.15 am from Terminal 2 of the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport, reveals FlightAware, a flight tracking platform. An Air India spokesperson said in a statement, Flight AI645 operating from Mumbai to Jodhpur on 22 August returned to bay due to an operational issue. The cockpit crew decided to discontinue the take-off run following standard operating procedures and brought the aircraft back. Alternative arrangements were made to fly the passengers to their destination. Air India sincerely regrets the inconvenience caused to passengers due to this unforeseen delay, the statement said. Our ground team at Mumbai had extended immediate assistance to minimise the inconvenience, it added. On August 17, two Air India flights had aborted take-off AI 2479 from Delhi to Leh due to a technical issue and AI613 from Mumbai to Ahmedabad due to a maintenance issue. Flyers were sent by alternative flights delaying their trip by four and six hours respectively. Additionally, an incoming Air India flight to Delhi from Zurich (AI 152) had to be cancelled at the last minute due to a technical snag. India & Pak extend air space closure for fifth time India on Friday issued a NOTAM (Notice to Airmen) extending its air space closure for Pakistan-registered aircraft upto September 24 (5.29 am). Pakistan had done the same a day earlier. The countries closed their respective air spaces in the aftermath of the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack. It was supposed to be for a month initially and end on May 23. It has since then been extended every month making it thenfifth extension this time.
Mumbai-Jodhpur Air India flight returns to bay due to operational problem
Scare On Air India Flight To Jodhpur
Flight AI645 operating from Mumbai to Jodhpur on 22 August returned to bay due to an operational issue. The cockpit crew decided to discontinue the take-off run following standard operating procedures and brought the aircraft back: Reports
Air India Mumbai-Jodhpur flight aborts take-off due to operation issue, details inside
An Air India flight, operating from Maharashtra's Mumbai to Rajasthan's Jodhpur, returned to the bay due to an operational issue, a spokesperson said.
Marwari Catalysts Unveils Rs. 4,000 Crore Impact Fund to Accelerate Purpose Driven Startups
About Marwari Catalysts Founded in Jodhpur, Marwari Catalysts (MCats) is one of India's leading startup accelerators. It has invested in over 100 startups nationwide, generating thousands of jobs and supporting women-led businesses. MCats' mission is to build a purpose'driven startup ecosystem aligned with the UN SDGs, proving that innovation and social impact can thrive together.
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.
Unwilling to marry man of familys choice, woman lawyer planned mysterious disappearance from train
BHOPAL : Unwilling to buckle under family pressure to marry the man of their choice, a Madhya Pradesh-based young advocate, Archana Tiwari, who aspired to become a civil judge, masterminded her own disappearance from on board a train on August 7. 12 days after she disappeared and went underground in the Nepalese capital Kathmandu with the help of a close friend, Saransh Jokchand, who wanted to make a big in drone business, and Saransh's alleged fraudster friend Tejindar Singh, the 29-year-old advocate has been found near the Indo-Nepal border in UP's Lakhimpur district and brought to Bhopal on Wednesday. On August 7, the young advocate, who was travelling from her workplace in Indore to home city Katni for Raksha Bandhan in the B3 coach of the 18233 Indore-Bilaspur Narmada Express train didnt reach home on August 8, after which a missing persons complaint was filed by her family at the government railway police (GRP-Katni). The investigation was transferred the next day to the GRP-Rani Kamlapati station of Bhopal. With Archana's bag and some other things being found on her train's seat, the GRP police first started working on the theory of the woman having fallen from the train, despite its chances being low in the crowded AC-3 compartment. More than 2000 CCTV footage from over 500 cameras were examined in detail between Indore and Bilaspur (Chhattisgarh). Our teams comprising more than 70 personnel were deployed in the dense forest areas in central MP, where using drones and state forest department staff, extensive combing was done, police superintendent (GRP-Bhopal) Rahul Kumar Lodha said in Bhopal on Wednesday An SDERF team searched in an area of around 32 km in river Narmada, but found nothing incriminating, after which possibility of a mishap with Archana was ruled out. It consequently broadened the purview of our investigations, focussing more on digital and electronic methodology-based investigations, he said. Based on the call detail record (CDR) and Internet Protocol Detail Record (IDPR), it was found that Archana had been in contact with an Indore-based drone business startup operator Saransh Jokchand, since January. Related investigations also revealed that she and Saransh were in touch with one Tejindar Singh (who was residing in Itarsi-Narmadapuram), possibly via Saransh. But, before Tejindar could be grilled in detail by the GRP-Bhopal, a team of Delhi police arrested him from Itarsi in connection with a fraud case. Connecting the dots in the matter pertaining to the sensational disappearance, the GRP-Bhopal reached Delhi and grilled Tejinder in Delhi police custody, where he spilled the beans and admitted to his role in first embarking the Narmada Express train from Narmadapuram railway station on August 7 as planned by Archana and Saransh and then helping the young advocate deboard the train at Itarsi railway station, Lodha said. Knowing well about the nook and cranny of Itarsi railway station, Tejindar helped Archana deboard the train and get out of the station through blind spots, which werent within the peripheral vision of the CCTV cameras, he added. Subsequent investigations revealed that after detraining at Itarsi, Archana along with Saransh, went by road to his hometown Shujalpur, in Shajapur district in a car. Archana and Saransh then returned to Indore, but realizing that the matter was becoming big in the media, they decided to get out of MP. They went to southwestern MP's Burhanpur district and then reached Hyderabad, where they stayed for two days. But with the matter becoming bigger every passing day, it was decided that Archana would go to Nepal and get underground in Kathmandu with the help of Saranshs business client. The duo Archana and Saransh travelled from Hyderabad to Jodhpur to Delhi and then entered Nepal via road based on Saranshs ID on August 14. In Nepal, the young advocate planned to live for a few months as Sapna (her other name) and then return to pursue her preparations for the judicial services exam. Though, based on CDRs, Saransh had been questioned initially by the cops, the questioning of Tejinder in Delhi polices custody in the national capital, actually helped the GRP-Bhopal in establishing Saranshs actual role in the case. Saransh was picked up for questioning again on August 17, after which he narrated the entire saga about Archana's mysterious disappearance for staying away from marriage and focusing on judicial services exams preparations. It was Saransh who finally helped police in connecting Archana over phone in Nepal and convinced her to fly back from Kathmandu to Dhangadhi in Nepal and then reach the Indo-Nepal border in UP's Lakhimpur Kheri district on Tuesday. She was brought by the GRP-Bhopal team to MP capital on Wednesday morning by flight. Questioning of Archana (a former student leader), her close friend Saransh and Tejindar revealed that she didnt want to get married with a Patwari (revenue department staff) on familys wishes and wanted instead to focus on preparations to achieve her ultimate goal of becoming a civil judge. It was owing to it only that she masterminded the entire mysterious disappearance, believing that in many cases of missing persons complaints, the victim often remained untraced, Lodha said. She left her bag and some other belongings on the train seat during the journey to home city Katni and then threw her mobile phone in the jungles of Midghat in central MP to create an impression that she fell from the train and will never be traced, Lodha said. While entire plot was masterminded by Archana, the travel plans and other aspects were finalized by Saransh and Tejindar. Though weve spent 10-12 days with more than 70 cops working round the clock in the sensational case, Archana being a major, nothing untoward has happened to her, no criminal case can be made against her. We will still seek additional legal opinion to further decide in the matter, Lodha maintained. Importantly, investigations suggest that Archana had planned her August 7 mysterious disappearance from the train on August 5, along with Saransh and Tejindar at a dhaba in central MPs Harda district, where she had gone for arguing a legal case. Out of the two SIM cards being used by her, she shut one of her SIM cards much before the August 7 rail journey and in the middle of the train journey, threw her cell-phone in the Midghat jungles of central MP to give credence to her missing person plot. Saransh, on the other hand, kept his cell phone on aeroplane mode right since returning to Indore with Archana from Shujalpur on August 9. He then purchased a new phone, got a new number in his labourer fathers name and used it till he left Archana in Nepal and returned to Indore on August 15, just to ensure that the last location of his original phone remained in Indore only.
VMOU RSCIT admit card released at rkcl.vmou.ac.in for 24 August 2025 exam
VMOU RSCIT admit card 2025: Rajasthan Knowledge Corporation Limited (RKCL) has released the RSCIT admit card for the VMOU exam scheduled on August 24, 2025. Candidates who have completed their RSCIT course can now download their hall ticket from the official portal, rkcl.vmou.ac.in. The exam will be held across multiple districts in the Jodhpur, Kota, and Udaipur divisions. The admit card contains essential details including exam venue and reporting time, and is mandatory for entry into the examination hall.
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.
Jodhpur Courtroom's Roof Collapses During 2-Day Break; None Hurt
No one was hurt as the NDPS Court chamber's roof is believed to have collapsed sometime during the night
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.
Trump tariff a blow to gems, jewellery, handicraft
JAIPUR: The Trump administrations decision to impose a 25% tariff on select imports from India has sparked panic among exporters in Rajasthan, particularly those trading with the United States. With America accounting for over Rs 17,000 crore of Rajasthans total exports worth Rs 85,000 crore, the move is expected to severely impact key sectors such as gems and jewellery, handicrafts, and textiles. The most significant impact will be likely on exports of handicrafts worth Rs 5,000 crore, gems and jewellery worth Rs 7,000-8,000 crore, and garments and textiles worth Rs 1,500 crore to the US. Until now, only textiles attracted a tariff of 5.5%. However, if a uniform 25% tariff is enforced across these categories, exporters fear losing a significant share in the American market. Gems, jewellery sector at risk Previously, this trade faced a modest 5.5% duty. Now, the 25% tariff set to come into effect from August 7 poses a serious threat. Speaking to this newspaper, Naveen Jain, Jeweller and proprietor of Lord Krishna International, said, Every year, Rajasthan exports gems and jewellery worth Rs 7,0008,000 crore to the US. So far, the tariff was 5.5%. With the jump to 25% from August 7, it will be extremely challenging for Indian exporters to remain competitive. Sanjay Kala, former president of the Jewellers Association and Managing Director of Kinu Baba Gems India Pvt Ltd, echoed the concerns. This 25% tariff by the US is a massive challenge for Rajasthans gems-jewellery, handicrafts and textile sectors. Exports worth over Rs 17,000 crore will be directly affected. Our products will lose their competitive edge globally, leading to a fall in exports and risking the livelihoods of lakhs of artisans and entrepreneurs. Kala further emphasised the need for immediate government intervention. This will have severe economic and social consequences. With such a steep duty in our biggest export market, losses are inevitable. The Centre must initiate strong diplomatic talks with the US and announce special relief schemes to support exporters, ensure continuity in production, and protect employment. He added, We must also diversify our export strategy by tapping into other global markets. Our industry has overcome many challenges before, and with government support and collective resilience, we will navigate this as well. Treaty with Terroristan, penalty for India Jaipur and Jodhpur at the centre of impact Region-wise, Jaipur alone exports around Rs 5,000 crore worth of gems and jewellery to the US every year. The recent increase in US import duty from 5.5% to 15.5% had already dealt a blow to Jaipurs exports. Now, with a proposed 25% duty, the situation is expected to worsen further. Ashok Maheshwari, convener of the Jaipur Handicraft Exporters Association (JAS), confirmed the damage already visible from the earlier hike. Jaipurs exports were hit even after the last tariff hike. If the duty isnt rolled back now, small and medium exporters will face major setbacks. Jodhpur, known for its vibrant handicraft industry, exports around Rs 2,500 crore worth of products to the US annually. Exporters fear that American buyers may now turn to Turkey and Mexico, where import duties are only around 10%, or rely more heavily on China, whose domestic subsidies and competitive pricing create additional challenges. Dr Bharat Dinesh, president of the Jodhpur Handicraft Exporters Association, warned, Indias handicraft sector holds a special place in global trade. This tariff decision will be disastrous for thousands of artisans and small businesses. The central government must treat this as a priority and begin high-level talks with the US administration immediately. Call for policy-level intervention Rajiv Arora, president of the Federation of Rajasthan Exporters, also voiced deep concern. To stay competitive globally, especially after this tariff hike, the government must bolster production-linked incentive (PLI) schemes and offer targeted relief packages for affected exporters. As trade tensions escalate, Rajasthans export-driven sectors are bracing for a turbulent period. Without swift diplomatic and policy-level intervention, the states trade ties with the US may suffer lasting damage.
JAIPUR: A family based in the United States was allegedly preparing to sell ancient remains believed to be the bones of Lord Buddha through a major international auction house, Union Culture and Tourism Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat revealed on Saturday. The announcement was made during a public hearing at his residence in Jodhpur. The relics, once taken out of the country during British rule, were recently traced to a family in the United States that was allegedly preparing to sell them through an international auction house. Speaking at a public hearing at his residence in Jodhpur, Shekhawat said that the relics had appeared in a Sothebys catalogue earlier this year, triggering swift intervention by the Indian government. We stopped the auction and informed them that the Government of India wanted to claim and officially receive the relics, he said. The sacred remains were originally discovered in 1898 during British-led excavations at Piprahwa in the Kapilvastu region, present-day Uttar Pradesh. They were found inside a stone casket believed to belong to the Shakya clanLord Buddhas own family. The casket contained a crystal container with ashes said to be of Buddha, along with belongings of his nephew and other kin. British officer William Peppe, who led the excavation, took possession of a large portion of the relics, some of which later made their way overseas. On Wednesday, Shekhawat personally received the relics at Delhi airport. After 127 years, the bones of Lord Buddha have returned to their rightful land, he stated, adding that the moment was of immense spiritual and cultural significance. Prime Minister Narendra Modi also welcomed the return of the relics. Earlier in a statement, he said, These sacred relics highlight Indias close association with Bhagwan Buddha and his noble teachings. It also illustrates our commitment to preserving and protecting different aspects of our glorious culture. When they appeared in an international auction earlier this year, we worked to ensure they returned home. The return was made possible through the collaborative efforts of the Ministry of Culture and the International Buddhist Confederation (IBC). The IBC confirmed that it played a key role in facilitating the process and ensuring the relics were brought back to India with dignity. The ashes of Lord Buddha were divided into eight parts after his Parinirvana. One part was given to the Shakya clan, who enshrined it in Piprahwa. What we have now received is part of that sacred legacy, Shekhawat added. The relics are expected to be placed in a national museum or a prominent Buddhist site, though official confirmation on this is awaited.
Jodhpur police cremated Muslim youth despite missing report, family learns truth after DNA test
JAIPUR: Jodhpur police are facing backlash for allegedly cremating, instead of burying, the body of a 20-year-old Muslim youth, Ismail, despite a missing persons report being filed days earlier. The body, found in Gulab Sagar, was labelled unclaimed and cremated, a violation of Islamic burial practices. It was only after a DNA test that the body was confirmed to be Ismails, leaving the family devastated and angry. Ismail, who lived in Chimanpura Gali-4, went missing on 17 June. His family reported his disappearance to the Sadar Bazar police station on 20 June. Just a day later, on 21 June, the body of a young man was recovered from Gulab Sagar and placed in the mortuary at Mahatma Gandhi Hospital, falling under the jurisdiction of the nearby Sadar Kotwali police station. Despite the fact that Sadar Bazar and Sadar Kotwali police stations operate from the same premises, they allegedly failed to coordinate. On 25 June, the Sadar Kotwali police treated the body as unidentified and cremated it. It was not until 26 June that Ismails sister-in-law came across visuals and information about the body recovered from the reservoir. Suspicious that it could be her missing relative, she informed the family. They contacted the Sojati Gate police and demanded verification. A DNA test was ordered. The following day, on 27 June, Ismails mother, Malka, provided a blood sample. The results from the Forensic Science Laboratory later confirmed that the cremated body was indeed Ismail's. On receiving the confirmation, Malka broke down, grieving not only her sons death but also the denial of religious burial rites. She accused the police of both carelessness and deep insensitivity. He should have been buried, not cremated, she said, struggling to hold back tears. Assistant Sub-Inspector Nemichand from Sadar Bazar police station acknowledged that the body was badly decomposed when found, making identification difficult. It was considered unclaimed at the time. After we were informed of the missing report, we proceeded with DNA testing, he said. This is not the first time such a mistake has allegedly occurred in Rajasthan. A similar incident was reported in 2019 in Bhiwadi, Alwar, where police cremated the body of a Muslim youth before confirming his identity. That event had triggered protests by the Meo community, with community leader Sher Mohammad accusing the police of serious insensitivity. The latest Jodhpur incident has reignited concerns about police protocol in handling unidentified bodies. It has raised questions about accountability, coordination between departments, and the respect of religious practices, especially when families have already reported someone missing. The case has drawn strong reactions from locals, who are demanding clear procedures and strict action to prevent such incidents from recurring.
Schools shut as heavy rains lash Rajasthan, 30 districts on alert
JAIPUR: Rajasthan continues to reel under intense monsoon activity as heavy rains batter multiple regions, prompting widespread disruption and precautionary measures. Jaipur saw heavy showers since morning, causing waterlogging in several parts of the city. Notably, areas around government residences, including those of Chief Secretary Sudhansh Pant and DGP Rajeev Sharma, were flooded. The Hadoti region was badly hit, with connectivity also severely disrupted. In Kota and surrounding Hadoti region, the spell of rain persisted on Tuesday as well, filling up dams, anicuts, and ponds. Waterfalls have begun flowing from the surrounding hills, and low-lying areas are flooded. Many rural roads are submerged, causing significant traffic disruptions, and standing crops are beginning to rot in waterlogged fields. Kota city recorded 15 mm of rainfall in the past 24 hours, with intermittent rain continuing through the day after a wet night. In Tonk and Sawai Madhopur, several areas are submerged. Rajasthans connectivity with Madhya Pradesh has been severely affected: Parvati river overflowed in Etawah (Kota), flooding a new bridge on the Etawah-Khatoli road. As a result, State Highway-70 (KotaGwaliorSheopur) is closed to traffic. Augaad culvert on NH-552 in Bodal, about 12 km from Sawai Madhopur, was washed away, severing the Sawai MadhopurSheopur (MP) route. In Sawai Madhopur, houses are filled with water up to five feet, and railway tracks are submerged, affecting train services. Morel Dam overflows again The Morel Dam in Lalsot (Dausa), considered Asias largest kachha (earthen) dam, has overflowed with water reaching 1.5 feet above its crest. This is the second consecutive year the dam has reached capacity. The situation is being closely monitored by local authorities. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued an Orange and Yellow alert for several districts, forecasting heavy to very heavy rainfall over the next three days, particularly on Wednesday and Thursday. According to the forecast, 18 districts in Jaipur, Ajmer, and Bharatpur divisions are expected to witness heavy rainfall in the next 48 hours. Some parts of the Bikaner division may also receive moderate to heavy showers. School holidays announced in several districts In light of the continuing downpour and the expected intensity of rain, local administrations have declared school and Anganwadi closures in several districts as a precautionary measure: Jaisalmer: Over 1650 schools closed till 31st July. Baran: Schools closed till August 2 Kota: Till August 1 Ajmer and Udaipur: July 30 and 31 Bhilwara: Closed on Wednesday Authorities have urged residents to remain alert, avoid unnecessary travel, and follow advisories, as life and property could be affected due to waterlogging, flooding, and road damage. Rainfall alerts 30 July Alerts: Orange Alert: Ajmer, Alwar, Dausa, Jaipur, Karauli, Sawai Madhopur, Tonk Yellow Alert: Bharatpur, Bhilwara, Bundi, Chittorgarh, Dholpur, Jhunjhunu, Rajsamand, Sikar, Sirohi, Udaipur, Bikaner, Hanumangarh, Churu, Jodhpur, Nagaur, Pali, Sri Ganganagar 31 July Alerts: Orange Alert: Ajmer, Tonk Yellow Alert: Bhilwara, Bundi, Jaipur, Sawai Madhopur, Sikar, Bikaner, Churu, Nagaur, Pali, Sri Ganganagar
India-Singapore joint military exercise from July 27-August 4 in Jodhpur
India and Singapore will conduct a joint military exercise in Jodhpur. The exercise, named Bold Kurukshetra, aims to improve interoperability between the two armies. It will focus on joint training capabilities under a UN mandate. The exercise will involve tabletop exercises and computer-based wargames. It will strengthen defence cooperation between India and Singapore.
Exercise Bold Kurukshetra 2025 to kick off at Jodhpur, advancing India-Singapore defence cooperation
The exercise will be conducted as a Table Top Exercise and Computer-Based Wargame, aimed at validating operational procedures for mechanised warfare.
New weather system triggers heavy rains in Rajasthan; Dausa witness 158 mm rainfall
JAIPUR: Several regions in Rajasthan experienced heavy rainfall over the past 24 hours due to the influence of a new weather system, the Meteorological Department said on Saturday. Heavy to very heavy rains are likely to persist in many areas across the state in the coming days, the weather office said in its forecast. A depression formed over eastern India, centred around Jharkhand and its surrounding regions on Saturday, is expected to move forward within the next 24 hours. As a result of this weather system, some places in eastern Rajasthan recorded heavy to very heavy rainfall recently, with Dausa experiencing the highest rainfall of 158 mm. There is a possibility of heavy to very heavy rain in parts of the Kota and Udaipur divisions, while heavy rain is likely in the Ajmer, Jodhpur, Jaipur, and Bharatpur divisions on Saturday. From July 27 to 28, some areas in southeastern and eastern Rajasthan are expected to receive heavy to very heavy rainfall, with this pattern continuing in eastern Rajasthan on July 29 and 30. Additionally, the Jodhpur and Bikaner divisions are likely to see an increase in rainfall activities over the next four to five days, including moderate to heavy rain in some areas.
Jagdeep Dhankar, who recently stepped down from the post of Vice President of India, had represented Salman Khan and got him bail when the Jodhpur police arrested him in the 1998 blackbuck poaching case.
Three AH-64E Apache attack helicopters, part of a Rs 5,691 crore deal with the US, have arrived at Hindon Air Force Station, enhancing the Indian Army's offensive capabilities. These anks in the air will be stationed in Jodhpur, where the Army raised its first Apache squadron. The remaining three Apaches are expected by the end of 2025.
IAF to conduct major exercise in Rajasthan from July 23; NOTAM issued
According to sources, the Indian Air Force is set to carry out a major military exercise in Rajasthan, covering areas from Barmer to Jodhpur
3 Apache Helicopters On Their Way To Jodhpur, Indian Army Induction Likely By July 22: Sources
Although there is no official confirmation, sources indicate that three Apache helicopters will most probably be inducted on July 22 and will arrive in Jodhpur by today or tomorrow
12 IAS, 91 IPS officers transferred in major bureaucratic reshuffle in Rajasthan
The Rajasthan government executed a significant bureaucratic reshuffle, transferring 12 IAS, 91 IPS, and 142 RAS officers. Key changes included the replacement of the Jodhpur Police Commissioner and the shifting of Range IGs in Kota, Jodhpur, Bikaner, Jaipur, Ajmer, and Bharatpur. Superintendents of Police in 30 districts were also affected by this large-scale administrative overhaul.
Daily Express Train To Jodhpur Starts Today
Serving both reserved and unreserved passengers, the new service will benefit people from central and north-western states residing in and around Hyderabad: Reports
New KachegudaJodhpur Express to Be Inaugurated on July 19
The train will comprise 22 coaches, including 7 sleeper coaches, 3 third AC coaches, 2 second AC coaches, 4 general coaches, a luggage coach, and a specially designed compartment for differently-abled passengers.
Direct train to Jodhpur on alternate route likely
Plea for direct train from Hyderabad to Jodhpur
Visakhapatnam, Vijayawada Among Fastest-growing Non-metro Hubs
Healthcare and pharma companies like Dr Reddy's Laboratories, Laurus Labs Ltd, Alembic Pharmaceuticals Ltd and Sun Pharma are creating opportunities in Vishakhapatnam and Vadodara, while HDFC Bank and ICICI Bank are accelerating the growth of financial services in Raipur, Agra and Jodhpur.
Four die in Himachal, five in Rajasthan's Kota as rain plays havoc
NEW DELHI: Four people died in Himachal Pradesh as rain continues to wreak havoc in the state, while five were swept away in Rajasthan's Kota at a barrage after a heavy downpour caused the authorities to release water from a reservoir. In Himachal, more than 200 roads are out of bounds for vehicular traffic, a majority of them in Mandi, while a flash flood warning has been issued for 12 districts in Jharkhand. An individual each drowned in Kullu and Kangra districts, one died after being bitten by a snake in Bilaspur, while one was killed after falling from a height, the State Emergency Operation Centre (SEOC) said. Since the onset of monsoon on June 20, 61 people have died in the state in rain-related incidents. In Rajasthan, Khatauli in Kota district recorded 198 mm of rain over 24 hours, the highest in the state. Five youths were swept away in the Chambal River Monday afternoon after the water level suddenly rose following the release of water from 12 gates of the Kota Barrage. The identity of the five missing youths is yet to be confirmed, as the rescued individual is not in a condition to provide detailed information at this stage, Digod Police Station SHO Purshottam Mehta said. Due to continuous rainfall in the region, the authorities opened all 12 gates of the Kota Barrage at 11.30 am on Monday, releasing approximately 2.2692 lakh cusecs of water downstream, said Nisha Sharma, Junior Engineer at Kota Barrage. A met department official said that a circulation system over Madhya Pradesh has intensified into a low-pressure area. Due to the system, parts of Kota, Ajmer, Jodhpur, and Udaipur divisions have seen heavy rain since yesterday. Delhi got a decent drizzle towards the evening, lifting the heavy humid pall it had sweltered under during the day. According to IMD data, Lodhi Road recorded the highest cumulative rainfall at 18.5 mm till 8.30 am on Monday. Pragati Maidan received 24.3 mm of rain, Ayanagar, 15.5 mm, Safdarjung, 15.8 mm, and Palam, 8.5 mm. In Himachal Pradesh, 208 roads, including 157 in the disaster-hit Mandi district, are closed for vehicular traffic, while 745 water supply schemes and 139 power distribution transformers were affected. The local Met office has issued an Orange alert of heavy to very heavy rain in Kangra, Mandi and Sirmaur on Monday, and Shimla, Solan, and Sirmaur on Tuesday. It issued a Yellow alert, meaning heavy rain, for at least three of the 12 districts till Friday. In Odisha, the weather department forecasted heavy rainfall in 19 of the 30 districts, as a low-pressure area over the Bay of Bengal intensified into a well-marked system. The India Meteorological Department cautioned fishermen not to venture into the sea for the next 24 hours in the north Bay of Bengal, as squally winds, blowing at 40-50 kmph, gusting to 60 kmph, were likely to prevail along and off north Odisha. A red warning was issued for extremely heavy rain, above 20 centimetres, in Mayurbhanj, Keonhar and Sundargarh. Dhenkanal, Jajpur, Kendrapara, Bhadrak and Balasore were predicted to receive 12 cm to 20 cm of rain. The remaining districts were forecasted to witness 7-11 cm of precipitation. Kolkata is likely to experience spells of light to moderate rain or thundershowers over the next 24 hours. Light to moderate rain is likely across South Bengal districts, as a cyclonic circulation over the Bay of Bengal is set to intensify into a low-pressure area within the next 24 hours, according to the Regional Meteorological Centre here. In Jharkhand, a flash flood warning was issued for Bokaro, East Singhbhum, Garhwa, Gumla, Khunti, Latehar, Lohardaga, Palamu, Ranchi, Saraikela, Simdega, and West Singhbhum districts till 11.30 am on Tuesday. Surface runoff and inundation may occur in some low-lying areas, the IMD said. A Red alert was sounded for heavy to extremely heavy rain in Saraikela-Kharswan, East Singhbhum, and West Singhbhum districts, and an Orange alert for Gumla, Khunti, and Simdega districts till 8.30 am on Tuesday. The weather office has issued a Yellow alert for heavy rain in Ranchi, Lohardaga, Ramgarh, Bokaro, Dhanbad, Jamtara, Hazaribag, Giridih, Koderma, and Deoghar till 8.30 am tomorrow. Ranchi Meteorological Centre Deputy Director Abhishek Anand said the state is likely to experience widespread rainfall till July 17 under the influence of a depression and monsoon trough.
JAIPUR: Flight Lieutenant Rishiraj Singh Deora (23), who lost his life in the Jaguar fighter jet crash in Churu , was cremated with full military honours in his native village of Khiwandi, Sumerpur (Pali). The solemn ceremony was attended by senior officials, villagers, ex-servicemen, and school children -- some dressed in army uniforms -- chanting slogans like Jab tak suraj chand rahega, Rishiraj ka naam rahega . Before the cremation, the grieving family expressed anguish over the use of ageing fighter jets for training purposes. Why are such old planes given to new and promising pilots? they questioned. These children have a bright future ahead, but we are losing them to outdated machines. The Jaguar fighter aircraft of the Indian Air Force crashed on July 9 at 12:40 pm in Churus Rajaldesar area. Both pilotsWing Commander Lokendra Singh Sindhu (44), a resident of Rohtak (Haryana), and Flight Lieutenant Rishiraj Singh Deorawere martyred in the incident. Eyewitnesses reported that the aircraft appeared to be swaying mid-air before crashing into a tree and dragging over 100 meters before catching fire. The explosion was so powerful, it felt like a bomb had gone off, said one villager. There was panic in the area, and people rushed to the crash site as police and administration were alerted. It is believed that the pilots veered the aircraft away from residential areas, possibly sacrificing their own lives to prevent civilian casualties. Due to this, they may not have had time to eject. The black box of the aircraft is yet to be recovered, and a search operation is ongoing. The Indian Air Force has ordered a Court of Inquiry to determine the cause of the crash. Rishiraj Singh Deora hailed from a modest yet proud family in Pali district. His father, Jaswant Singh, runs a hotel business, while his mother, Bhanwar Kanwar, is a homemaker. His younger brother, Yuvraj Singh, is studying in Class 12 in Jodhpur. The news of his martyrdom has left the family devastated. On Thursday, Rishiraj's mortal remains reached Jodhpur airport, where Union Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat paid floral tributes and offered condolences to the bereaved family. The body was then airlifted to Sirohi and transported by road to his village. At the Sirohi airstrip, several dignitaries paid their last respects, including SP Anil Kumar Beniwal, DSP Mukesh Chaudhary, MP Lumbaram Chaudhary, BJP District President Dr Raksha Bhandari, the Sub-Divisional Officer, and local ex-servicemen. As the martyr's final journey passed through the village, residents lined the roads to bid him farewell. Children waving the tricolour declared their desire to serve the nation, inspired by the sacrifice of Rishiraj Singh Deora.
Mortal remains of Flt Lt Rishi Raj Singh, who died in Jaguar crash, consigned to flames in Pali
The mortal remains of Flight Lieutenant Rishi Raj Singh, who died in a crash of a Jaguar fighter plane during a routine sortie near Churu in Rajasthan, were consigned to flames at his ancestral village in the state's Pali district on Thursday evening amid full military honours and slogans. Twenty-three-year-old Singh was one of the two Indian Air Force (IAF) pilots who were killed in the crash on Wednesday. He was flying with Squadron Leader Lokendra Singh Sindhu, who hailed from Kheri Sadh village in Haryana's Rohtak. Singh's mortal remains first reached Jodhpur Air Force station from Suratgarh on Thursday afternoon. Union minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat offered floral tributes at the Air Force station. From Jodhpur, the mortal remains were taken to Sirohi by a helicopter and then to his village by road, where the entire Khivandi village including family members, relatives, Air Force officers and administrative officials gathered in solemn grief to receive him for the final rites. For the inconsolable mother and father, it was hard to believe their eyes that the son, for whom they had been searching a suitable match and dreaming of seeing him on horseback in his 'barat' (wedding procession), now lay motionless on the pyre amid the flames. Those present called it the most cruel joke of the Almighty. As the news of Singh's martyrdom spread, relatives and villagers began assembling at his village house from Wednesday to console the parents, who are yet to come to terms with the rudest shock. He was the pride of our family. With his career firmly in place, we had begun preparing for the next chapter of his life, hoping to see him married within a year or two. But now, everything has come to an end, said his uncle Hitpal Singh. Holding age-old fighter planes responsible for the loss of pilots, he questioned why such old machines are being allowed to be operated at the cost of Indian pilots. He termed the loss both personal as well as national. According to a family member Pratap Singh, Rishi Raj Singh was fascinated by fighter planes from childhood and always wanted to become a fighter pilot. He was brilliant in studies and after completing his schooling from Jodhpur, he appeared in the entrance examination for NDA. After selection, he went on to join NDA in Pune and chose the Air Force to realise his dream to become a flyer, he said. Rishi Raj Singh is survived by his father Jaswant Singh, a hotelier; his mother Bhanwar Kanwar, a homemaker; and his younger brother Yuvraj Singh, who is pursuing his senior secondary education in Jodhpur. IAF pilot Lokendra Singh Sindhu killed in Rajasthan jet crash had become a father a month ago
Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw's Father Passes Away, Condolences Pour In
Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw's father, Daulal Vaishnaw, passed away at AIIMS Jodhpur on Tuesday. He had been critically ill.
Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw's father dies in Jodhpur
He had been critically ill for the past few days and was under treatment at AIIMS Jodhpur
Apache AH-64E Helicopters to boost army power
India is all set to enhance its combat capabilities as the first batch of Apache AH-64E attack helicopters is expected to arrive by the end of July. These advanced helicopters, part of a $600 million deal signed with the U.S. in 2020, will join the Army Aviation Corps' Apache squadron in Jodhpur, raised in March 2024. The post Apache AH-64E Helicopters to boost army power appeared first on Fusion - WeRIndia .
JAIPUR: A teenage Pakistani couple who illegally crossed the border into India near Jaisalmer in search of a better life were found dead from thirst and dehydration in the Thar desert. The couple, Ravi Kumar (17) and Shanti Bai (15), had married four months ago in Pakistans Sindh province and reportedly crossed over after their visa applications were rejected amid strained Indo-Pak relations. Despite warnings from family, they crossed the border carrying a jerry can of water, which was found empty beside their bodies. Police suspect they lost their way in the desert. Pakistani ID cards were recovered from the site, prompting a high-level security probe. According to officials, Ravi and Shanti had been married four months ago in Mirpur Mathelo, in Pakistans Ghotki district of Sindh province. The couple had reportedly dreamed of building a safer and more secure life in India and had applied for travel visas. However, their applications were rejected. Undeterred, the couple decided to cross the heavily guarded international border without authorisation. Ravis father had strongly opposed the idea and even had an argument with him a week prior. Still, the young couple proceeded with their plan. After entering Indian territory, they appear to have lost direction in the harsh desert terrain, eventually succumbing to the intense heat and lack of water. A medical board has since conducted a post-mortem examination of the bodies. Speaking on the matter, Dilip Singh Sodha, district coordinator of the Hindu Pakistani Displaced Union and Border People Organization, said the deceased belonged to the Ghulam Hussain Legari village in Sindhs Ghotki district. Some of their relatives currently reside in India. The ID cards of the couple recovered from near their bodies. On June 21, Ravi reportedly left his home on a motorcycle with Shanti Bai after a disagreement with his father. Despite having submitted their passports and visa documents for religious travel to India, the process stalled after the Pahalgam terror attack . Frustrated with the uncertainty, Ravi insisted on leaving. Their motorcycle and clothes were later found about 20 km inside Pakistani territory from the border, Sodha said. Sodha added that many Hindu families from Dalit and tribal communities had migrated to Pakistans Sindh region from Jodhpur and Jaisalmer decades ago, before the fencing of the border. Since the 1990s, cross-border movement has become increasingly difficult, especially for persecuted minorities. The couples refugee cards have been traced, and their identities have been confirmed by family members through social media, he said. Jaisalmer Superintendent of Police, Sudhir Choudhary, said that the discovery of Pakistani national identity cards with the bodies has raised security concerns. Authorities are not ruling out the possibility of infiltration or other criminal angles. A multi-agency investigation is currently underway, and legal formalities are being followed as per protocol. Sodha added that if the Indian government chooses not to repatriate the bodies to Pakistan, their relatives in Jaisalmer are willing to perform the final rites according to Hindu traditions.
JAIPUR: Former Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot on Thursday launched a scathing attack on the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) for observing Samvidhan Hatya Diwas across the country to mark the anniversary of the Emergency, alleging that the saffron party had illegally toppled governments in Congress-ruled states. Speaking to the media in Jodhpur, Gehlot alleged that senior BJP leaders including Union Home Minister Amit Shah had conspired to topple his government and had engaged in horse-trading by distributing huge sums of money to MLAs. Amit Shah, Dharmendra Pradhan and Gajendra Singh Shekhawat in the Narendra Modi government conspired to topple the Rajasthan government, but failed. Ours was the only government in the country that they could not overthrow, Gehlot said. He further stated, They changed governments in Madhya Pradesh, Karnataka and Maharashtra, but could not do so in Rajasthan. These people tried to break our party and distributed money to MLAs. I have proof of this. The situation they created is this in line with the Constitution? Today, these people are celebrating Constitution Day. Referring to the scale of the alleged horse-trading, the former Chief Minister said, You cant imagine how much money was distributed to buy MLAs in Maharashtra, Karnataka and Madhya Pradesh. Some claim Rs 25 crore, others Rs 35 crore, and some Rs 50 crore. In the case of Maharashtra, one can only imagine the sums. Where is the country headed? How can democracy survive like this? BJP undermining Constitution, democracy: Ashok Gehlot Gehlots remarks have triggered varied interpretations within political circles. Some experts speculate Gehlot's statements are indirectly aimed at his former deputy and political rival within the party, Sachin Pilot. Pilot had staged a rebellion and shifted to Manesar with supporting MLAs during Gehlots tenure. Since then, Gehlot has consistently accused both the BJP and Pilot of plotting to topple his government. Pilot has recently become active in state politics and held a show of strength on the 25th death anniversary of his father, Rajesh Pilot an event attended by Gehlot himself. In the wake of these developments, many are drawing different meanings from Gehlots latest statement. Gehlot has been making headline-grabbing remarks over the past two days. On Wednesday, he claimed that a terrible conspiracy was underway to remove Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma from office, allegedly by some within the BJP. Responding sharply to this, CM Sharma said, Those who have never felt the pain of the common man cant understand the pain of others. Taking a jibe at the former CM, Sharma added, How can someone who has never suffered, understand the struggles of others? Gehlot warns of conspiracy to remove Rajasthan CM, sparks political storm
Gehlot warns of conspiracy to remove Rajasthan CM, sparks political storm
JAIPUR: Former Rajasthan Chief Minister and senior Congress leader Ashok Gehlot made a sensational claim on Wednesday, alleging that a conspiracy is underway to remove the states current Chief Minister, Bhajanlal Sharma. Speaking to reporters at the Circuit House during his Jodhpur visit, Gehlot warned that if BJP leaders fail to remain vigilant, they will have to bear the consequences. Gehlot alleged that all is not well within the state BJP claiming that elements within the ruling party are plotting to oust Sharma. People have made their plans, but Bhajanlal Sharma doesnt seem to understand this. We are not making any accusation against him after all, he has only been in office for a year and a half. What is the point of changing the Chief Minister repeatedly? he said. The veteran Congress leader emphasized that Bhajanlal had been elevated to the post as a first-time MLA, calling it an unprecedented opportunity. This is a big thing. Maintain this position what is the benefit of replacing the CM again and again? he added. Gehlot also accused the BJP government of ignoring the states deteriorating conditions. People are suffering, and if the government conducted public hearings, it would understand their plight, he said. Launching a sharp attack, Gehlot claimed that sycophants have surrounded the CM, praising him falsely and misleading him. Referring to the BJPs repeated mention of the Emergency, Gehlot said, The BJP tries to gain mileage from the Emergency, but in 1980, after the Emergency, Congress came back with a huge majority. The BJPs attempt to use that issue will not succeed. This statement has stirred a fresh wave of political tension in Rajasthan. Recently, CM Bhajanlal Sharma countered the ongoing attacks from Ashok Gehlot, calling him a social media expert who tries to confuse the public. He should first review the situation during his own tenure. The Congress gave slogans but achieved nothing on the ground. Let the people compare and decide which government worked better, Sharma said. The CM went a step further, openly challenging the Congress leaders for a public debate. In response, Leader of the Opposition Tikaram Julie accepted the challenge and asked the CM to fix the time and venue for an open discussion.
Scam to manipulate NEET UG scores busted by CBI; 2 held in Maharashtra
NEW DELHI: The CBI has registered an FIR against a medical student for allegedly appearing as a proxy for a candidate in the NEET-UG 2023 examination, leading to the persons admission to the MBBS course. The accused Vikash, resident of Rajasthans Jalore district, allegedly appeared for Praveen Godara of Jodhpur, also named in the FIR, in the NEET-UG held on May 7, 2023, at the Kendriya Vidyalaya in Sector 12, Dwarka, in Delhi, sources said. Sources said Vikash, a second-year MBBS student at Dr Bhim Rao Ambedkar Medical College in Sirohi, allegedly copied Godaras signature and handwriting on the NEET attendance and answer sheets. Godara then went on to qualify for the examination securing a seat in the MBBS course at the Government Institute of Medical Sciences, Noida. Meanwhile, in another case the CBI has uncovered a NEET UG 2025 marks manipulation scandal and arrested two individuals, including a doctor, for their alleged involvement. In the FIR, the agency said Dr Sandeep Jawahar Shah, along with another individual posing as a National Testing Agency official, manipulated NEET-UG 2025 scores to help ineligible candidates gain admission to government medical colleges in exchange for Rs 90 lakh per aspirant. Shah met with candidates parents at a hotel in Parel to collect payments. On June 9, the CBI used dummy parents and independent witnesses to verify the allegations against the two accused. During this operation, the fee for manipulating the marks was negotiated, the FIR read.
J&K-Born IAS Officer Qummer ul Zaman Appointed DC Bharatpur In Rajasthan
Jammu, Jun 23: IAS officer Qummer ul Zaman Choudhary, a native of Jammu and Kashmir and a 2014 batch officer, has been appointed as the District Collector of Bharatpur in Rajasthan. Zaman has previously served in key roles including Joint Secretary in the Public Health Engineering Department, Commissioner of the Jodhpur Development Authority, and District Magistrate of Dausa. The post J&K-Born IAS Officer Qummer ul Zaman Appointed DC Bharatpur In Rajasthan appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Ahmedabad plane crash: DNA matches confirmed for 251 victims, 245 bodies handed over to families
AHMEDABAD: In a recent development following the Ahmedabad plane crash, Civil Hospital Superintendent Dr Rakesh Joshi announced that DNA samples of 251 deceased victims have been successfully matched. Thus far, the mortal remains of 245 individuals have been handed over to their grieving families, with the remaining six to be returned in the coming days. Dr Joshi, addressing the media, shared that the 245 bodies released include 176 Indian nationals, 49 British citizens, 7 Portuguese nationals, one Canadian, and 12 non-passengers. The extensive identification process marks a critical step towards closure for hundreds of devastated families. Ahmedabad plane crash: Crew member's mortal remains reach Manipur, thousands pay tributes Providing a district-wise breakdown, Dr Joshi stated that bodies have been returned to families from the following regions: Ahmedabad (70), Vadodara (24), Anand (26), Udaipur (7), Kheda (11), Mehsana (7), Surat (12), Bharuch (7), Gandhinagar (7), Diu (14), Gir Somnath (5), Rajkot (3), Patan (3), Junagadh (1), Amreli (2), Bhavnagar (1), Botad (1), Mahisagar (1), Aravalli (2), Palanpur (1), Jamnagar (2), Dwarka (2), Sabarkantha (1), Modasa (1), Khambhat (2), Nadiad (1), Patna (1), Mumbai (10), Pune (1), Maharashtra (2), Rajasthan (2), Jodhpur (1), London (10), and Manipur (1). He emphasised that the DNA matching process is both highly sensitive and bound by strict legal protocols. Every identification has been carried out with the utmost precision and care. Agencies such as Forensic Science University, alongside the local administration, health departments, and various state and central authorities, are working tirelessly to ensure that the mortal remains are returned with dignity and respect. This coordinated and relentless effort underscores the authorities commitment to providing a measure of solace and closure in the wake of an immense tragedy.
Police detain NSUI Student Leader, Congress MLA during exam, spark political outrage in Rajasthan
JAIPUR: The President of the Rajasthan University Students' Union, Nirmal Chaudhary, and Sangaria MLA Abhimanyu Poonia were detained by the police on Saturday while appearing for a philosophy examination at the university. According to eyewitnesses, plainclothes officers had been stationed across the campus since morning and took both leaders into custody as soon as the exam began. The detention caused a huge stir on campus, with some students raising slogans and creating a commotion. The situation calmed down after the police left with Chaudhary. However, DCP East Tejaswini Gautam clarified that Abhimanyu Poonia was not detained. He voluntarily entered the police vehicle to support Nirmal Chaudhary, she said. Gautam stated that Chaudhary had been wanted in connection with a 2022 scuffle involving then CI Gandhinagar Nemichand and ACP Mukesh Chaudhary, which left Nemichand with a fractured hand and Mukesh Chaudhary with a head injury. A case was registered against several student leaders, and after a thorough investigation, Chaudhary was taken into custody. The police did not detain MLA Abhimanyu Poonia. He joined Nirmal in the car voluntarily and later went to his residence from the Gandhinagar police station, added DCP Gautam. MLA Abhimanyu Poonia, however, asserted, Nirmal Chaudhary and I were taken from the exam hall as if we were criminals. I have been released, but Nirmal is still in police custody. The behaviour of the plainclothes officers was akin to hooliganism. Nirmal, a former student union president, had recently staged a protest at SMS Hospital demanding an inquiry into the death by suicide of Jodhpur doctor Rakesh Vishnoi. There too, he had a heated argument with police officials. Poonia added, This kind of police action against a student is absolutely wrong. Arresting Nirmal over an old case while he was appearing for an exam created chaos in the examination hall and violated democratic norms. The Congress party has strongly condemned the police action. MLA Abhimanyu Poonia, Mukesh Bhakar, Ram Niwas Gavadia, former MLA Indraj Gurjar, and Anil Chopra met Police Commissioner Biju George Joseph on Saturday afternoon and termed the arrest as unlawful. Former Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot tweeted, Detaining Youth Congress state president and MLA Abhimanyu Poonia and Nirmal Chaudhary during an examination is unjust and a breach of democracy. The BJP government refused to listen to the family of Dr. Rakesh Vishnoi, and when these public representatives spoke out for justice, a case was registered against them. Public representatives have every right to raise their voice for the public interest. The state government should release them immediately. Similarly, former Deputy CM Sachin Pilot added, If the police, administration, and government act out of a sense of revenge, we will oppose it strongly. The government aims to send a message that it will target those who raise their voice, which is unacceptable. Suppressing dissent through state machinery is completely wrong.
Ahmedabad plane crash: 223 DNA matches confirmed, 204 bodies handed over to families
AHMEDABAD: DNA samples of 223 victims of the Air India plane crash have been successfully matched, and 204 bodies have been handed over to families as of 11:50 am on June 20, according to Civil Hospital Superintendent Dr Rakesh Joshi. The Civil Hospital authorities have intensified the efforts to identify and return the remaining bodies. Meanwhile, two patients under treatment at the Civil Hospital succumbed to their injuries. Their bodies have been handed over to their families, bringing the total count of bodies handed over to 204 from the Civil Hospital alone. Breaking down the identification further, Dr Joshi confirmed that the 223 matched victims comprise 168 Indian nationals, 7 Portuguese, 36 British citizens, 1 Canadian, and 11 non-passengers - local residents who were tragically caught in the crash zone. Several international, domestic Air India flights cancelled due to operational reasons Logistics have played a critical role in the aftermath, with 15 bodies airlifted and 189 transported by road, according to Dr Joshi. The mortal remains have been sent to various Indian states and several foreign countries. Ahmedabad received the highest number, with 58 bodies, followed by Vadodara (21), Surat (11), Udaipur (7), Mumbai (9), Diu (14), and Kheda (11). Others were sent to Mehsana (6), Gandhinagar (6), Rajkot (3), Jamnagar (2), Patan (2), Dwarka (2), Aravalli (2), and London (2). Single bodies were transported to locations including Botad, Jodhpur, Anand, Palanpur, Maharashtra, Junagadh, Amreli, Gir Somnath, Mahisagar, Bhavnagar, Patna, Nadiad, Sabarkantha, Nagaland, and Modasa. Madurai-bound Indigo flight returns after mid-air 'snag,' say officials
Ahmedabad plane crash: DNA of 211 victims matched; 189 bodies handed over to families
AHMEDABAD: In a significant update on the Ahmedabad plane crash tragedy, DNA samples of 211 deceased individuals have been successfully matched, and 189 bodies have been handed over to their respective families, according to officials. Civil Hospital Superintendent Dr Rakesh Joshi shared the details during a media briefing, emphasizing the coordinated effort between forensic teams, hospital staff, and law enforcement. Of the remaining cases, eight families are expected to claim the mortal remains of their loved ones in the coming days, while two families are scheduled to accept the bodies by tomorrow. Additionally, 11 families are still awaiting DNA matches of their other relatives, indicating that the process of closure remains ongoing for many. Providing a breakdown of nationalities, Dr. Joshi stated that among the 189 confirmed deceased, 142 are Indian citizens, 32 are from the UK, seven are Portuguese nationals, one is Canadian, and seven individuals were non-passengers, whose presence near the crash site turned tragic. In a detailed media briefing, Dr. Joshi confirmed that 189 bodies have been handed over to families so far, while DNA samples of 211 deceased individuals have been successfully matched. He noted that eight more families are expected to receive the mortal remains of their relatives in the coming days, while two families will accept the remains by tomorrow. However, the process is not yet complete - 11 families are still awaiting the DNA match of a second relative, highlighting the continued emotional wait for full closure. Providing further insight, he explained the nationality distribution of the 189 deceased: 142 were Indian citizens, 32 were British nationals, 7 were from Portugal, 1 was Canadian, and 7 were non-passengerspeople who were tragically caught in the disaster despite not being on the flight. Dr Joshi also offered a detailed breakdown of the geographical origin of those whose bodies have been handed over. These include seven from Udaipur, 20 from Vadodara, 10 from Kheda, 55 from Ahmedabad, six from Mehsana, one each from Botad, Jodhpur, Patan, Junagadh, Mahisagar, Bhavnagar, and Patna, two each from Aravalli, Maharashtra, Amreli, Jamnagar, Dwarka, and London, 16 from Anand, five from Bharuch, 11 from Surat, six from Gandhinagar, 14 from Diu, three from Rajkot, nine from Mumbai, one each from Nadiad, Sabarkantha, and Nagaland. He emphasised that the process of DNA matching is both legally sensitive and scientifically complex, requiring meticulous attention. Due to these constraints, the identification is being carried out with utmost seriousness and urgency. To expedite the process, teams from the Forensic Science University, local administrations, state health departments, and multiple central and state agencies are working round the clock. Their collective efforts aim to ensure that the mortal remains are returned to families as quickly and respectfully as possible, offering a measure of peace amid a tragedy that has shaken families across India and abroad.
Ahmedabad plane crash: 190 DNA matches confirmed, 157 bodies handed over
AHMEDABAD: Six days after the devastating Ahmedabad plane crash, the sole survivor Vishwas Kumar has been discharged from the hospital in stable condition, confirmed Dr. Rakesh Joshi, Civil Hospital Superintendent. Kumar's family, who had flown in from the UK, was present at his side. The body of Kumar's brother, who was killed in the crash, was handed over to the family at 2 am on the same day, and a funeral was held for him in Diu. As of now, DNA samples of 190 deceased individuals have been successfully matched. In a detailed briefing, Dr. Joshi stated that 157 bodies have already been handed over to their respective families, with the identification and release process still underway for the remaining. He noted that five families are expected to collect the bodies of their loved ones soon, while the hospital remains in contact with 10 families. Meanwhile, 15 families are waiting for DNA matches of additional relatives, and the identification process is ongoing for three others. Dr. Joshi also revealed a detailed breakdown of the nationalities among the deceased whose bodies have been identified: 123 Indian nationals, 27 British citizens, 4 Portuguese nationals, 1 Canadian citizen, and 4 non-passengers. In terms of geographical distribution, he reported that the bodies handed over include: Ahmedabad (48), Vadodara (18), Kheda (10), Anand (11), Gandhinagar (6), Surat (6), Mehsana (5), Udaipur (6), Bharuch (5), Gir Somnath (5), Diu (12), Mahisagar (1), Bhavnagar (1), Patan (1), Botad (1), Aravalli (2), Jodhpur (1), Junagadh (1), Amreli (1), Rajkot (2), Nadiad (1), Dwarka (2), Sabarkantha (1), Mumbai (7), London (2), Patna (1), and Maharashtra (2).
Air India crash in Ahmedabad could be the worst involving a single aircraft in India
The crash of Air India Flight 171 in Ahmedabad on Thursday could be the worst ever accident involving a single aircraft in India. There were 242 people on board the flight, while more casualties are likely on the ground as the plane crashed into a hostel for medical students. The only plane accident in India with more casualties was the mid-air collision of two aircraft over Charkhi Dadri in Haryana, around 100 km from Delhi, in 1996 in which 349 people died. That crash involved the collision of a Saudia flight from Delhi to Dhahran in Saudi Arabia and a Kazakhstan Airlines flight from Chimkent in Kazakhstan to Delhi. LIVE | Air India flight to London crashes near Ahmedabad airport during takeoff; all 242 passengers presumed dead The previous worst crash involving a single aircraft in India took place on New Year's Day in 1978 when an Air India flight crashed into the Arabian Sea just off the coast of Bombay less than two minutes after take-off. All 213 people on board that flight, which was headed to Dubai, died. The aircraft was a Boeing-747 named Emperor Ashoka. The worst ever crash involving an Air India plane was in 1985 when a flight from Canada to India was blown up over the Atlantic Ocean after a bomb was planted on board by Khalistani terrorists. All 329 people on board were killed. Here is a timeline of the major air accidents in India since 1990: August 7, 2020 Air India Express Flight IX-1344 Kozhikode In Keralas biggest plane accident, an Air India Express aircraft carrying 190 people on board, including crew, from Dubai to Calicut airport skidded off the table-top runway while landing in bad weather, fell 35 feet onto a road below and split into two. Operating under the Vande Bharat Mission to repatriate Indians stranded abroad due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Boeing 737-800 aircraft was flying from Dubai to Kozhikode (Calicut). Such runways, which are located on hilltops, create the optical illusion of being at the same level as the plains below when a pilot comes in for a landing. The crash claimed 21 lives, including both pilots, and left more than 100 injured, some critically. May 22, 2010 Air India Express Flight IX-81 - Mangalore Air India Express Flight IX-812 crashed on May 22, 2010, at Mangalore International Airport, marking one of the deadliest aviation disasters in India. The flight, a Boeing 737-800, was operating from Dubai to Mangalore with 166 people onboard, including many Indian expatriates returning home. The 2-year-old aircraft had crashed outside Mangalore airport in Karnataka on May 22, killing 158 people when it burst into flames after overshooting a table-top runway and plunged into a nearby forest.The crash resulted in 158 fatalities, with only 8 survivors, most of whom were seated in the front section of the aircraft. The investigation found that the pilot overshot the table-top runway at Mangalore and tried to pull up the plane but it was too late. November 10, 2009 An ATR-72 passenger plane, operated by Kingfisher Airlines, was damaged when it skidded off the runway on landing at Mumbai-Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport (BOM), India. Flight IT4124 operated on a scheduled domestic flight from Bhavnagar Airport (BHU) to Mumbai. Maintenance on main runway 27 at Mumbai effected operations at the airport between certain times. October 29, 2008 King Air C-90 aircraft owned and operated by Govt of Punjab was operating Positioning flight from Chandigarh to Ludhiana on 29.10.08 with two cockpit crew on board. The flight en-route up to overhead Ludhiana was uneventful. The crew located the runway late due prevailing Low visibility. They were not comfortable with the approach and made a go around; a non-standard go-around due to low visibility. In the anxiety to not to loose the sight of the field they descended in three orbits in the vicinity of the airfield on the west side of R/w 12, perhaps to land after making the short circuit from the right. However they lost the control and impacted with the ground in the steep left bank. Aircraft got destroyed in the crash due to the impact and post impact fire. Both the occupant on board died due to fire and collapsing aircraft structure. Air India crash near Ahmedabad airport: What we know so far March 19, 2008 The Premier 1 corporate jet aircraft took off normally from Jodhpur (JDH), India. The flight en-route up to approach to land at Udaipur (UDR) was uneventful. After clearance to land at Udaipur the pilot selected the flaps-10; the flap didnt respond and Flaps-Fail message flashed. The pilot decided to go for a flap-less landing and carried out the check list for Flaps Up approach & landing. The approach speed of the aircraft was probably high and it could not be brought to the assigned limit for flap less landing. The pilot continued approach at high speed. From about 25 feet height, the aircraft had a sort of free fall and impacted the runway. It rolled for about 150 feet with heavy breaking on both the wheels; which caused heavy rubber deposits on the runway and subsequent tyre burst. The aircraft veered to right and hit the boundary wall before it stopped. September 8, 2007 Vulcanair P68C aircraft VT-JOY operated by M/s Joy Alukkas Traders (I)pvt Ltd, Cochin operating flight from Bangalore Airport to Cochin on 08.9.2007 after refueling at Bangalore. Its took-off from Bangalore airport runway 27 at approx 1514 Hrs normally. At about1520 Hrs IST the aircraft wanted to return back due technical. However it could not make it as it was losing the engine power very fast. Subsequently Radar contact with the aircraft was lost and the aircraft crashed onto the lakebed of Gawdanapalya Lake, about 5NM Southwest of Bangalore airport. All the persons onboard received fatal injuries. There was no evidence of fire. Aircraft was completely destroyed. July 1, 2007 ATR 72-212A aircraft VT -JCE operated by M/s Jet Airways was operating schedule flight sectors DelhiBhopalIndoreDelhi on 1.7.2007. The flight up-till approach to land at Indore was normal. On coming to the runway the aircraft touched down moderately hard and bounced high. The Pilots were perhaps determined to salvage the abnormal situation and added Power to the Engines with intention to cushion the sink-rate and settle the runway. On the contrary, aircraft came hard on the RWY and bounced once again. This got followed with a series of bounces in succession. While bouncing the aircraft migrated from the runway and finally came to full halt on right side close to airport boundary wall. There was no fire in the accident. March 11, 2006 Low-cost carrier Air Deccan's flight from Coimbatore was involved in a mishap when it skidded off the runway after landing at the Bangalore airport.The brand new ATR-72 plane with a compliment of 40 passengers and four crew members damaged its landing gear -- nose wheel and undercarriage-- and slipped out of the runway. April 17, 2004 The aircraft owned and operated by M/s Agni Aerosports Adventure Academy,Bangalore was scheduled for a flight from Jakkur airport to Nadirgul on 7.4.2004. The aircraft took off at about 1115 Hrs with four persons on board including pilot in command. Film actress Ms. Soundarya was also on board the aircraft. After attaining a height of about 150 ft after takes off, the aircraft took a steep left turn, stalled and hit the ground. A few minutes later, the aircraft caught fire and all the occupants received fatal injuries. The aircraft got destroyed due impact and post impact fire. Ahmedabad Air India plane crash: Former Gujarat CM Vijay Rupani feared to be among passengers September 30, 2001 (Charter Flight) King Air C 90 aircraft VT-EFF owned by Birla Global Finance Ltd. and operated by M/s Jindal Strips Ltd., New Dehli took off from Delhi on 30.09.2001 at 1241 hrs with six passengers and two crewmembers on board. The aircraft was bound to Kanpur. En route it reported Aligarh as estimated. Short of next reporting point KADAS the aircraft was about 10 miles right of track for which the permission was obtained and the pilot requested for direct routing to Kanpur. Captain was advised by ATC Lucknow, to co-ordinate with Gwalior and Agra for traffic information. Thereafter, the aircraft lost the contact with the ATC and crashed. All the persons on board received fatal injuries. The aircraft got destroyed due fire. July 17, 2000 Boeing 737 aircraft VT-EGD, owned by Indian Airlines Ltd. and operated by Airlines Allied Services Ltd. took off from NSCBI Airport Kolkata at 0615 hrs on 17.07.2000 for Patna Lucknow - Delhi. The aircraft was under the command of Capt. Sohan Pal and there were 58 persons, including six crewmembers, on board. At approx 0713 hrs, the aircraft informed Patna ATC, estimated arrival time at Patna at 0736 hrs. The aircraft informed Patna ATC at 0732 hrs that it would like to do a 360-degree due to being high on approach. The ATC informed the aircraft to report final for R/W 25 after carrying out a 360-degree turn and the pilot acknowledged the same. This was the last communication recorded between the aircraft and the ATC. During the approach, for R/W 25 at Patna, the aircraft turned steeply to the left, losing height, and collided with the tree in the approach funnel and crashed in the GardaniBagh area near Patna Airport. The aircraft was totally destroyed due impact with the ground and post impact fire. July 30, 1998 Indian Airlines DO-228 aircraft VT-EJW was involved in an accident at KochiAerodrome on 30-7-98. The aircraft was scheduled to operate from Kochi toThiruvananthapuram. Aircraft took off from runway 17 of Kochi Aerodrome. After attaining a height of about 400 ft. it was seen pitching up steeply to a near vertical attitude and thereafter appeared to perform a manoeuvre similar to a stall turn to the right and crashed on the roof top of the Component Repair Shop (CRS) building of the Naval Aircraft Yard, Kochi. After the impact the aircraft caught fire and was completely destroyed. All persons on board received fatal injuries. Three persons working in CRS also received fatal and six other persons received minor injuries. November 12, 1996 A Saudi Arabian Boeing 747 aircraft and Kazakhastna IL-76 aircraft collided in mid-air about 40 miles west of Delhi on 12th November, 1996. All the 312 occupants of Saudi Boeing 747 and 37 occupants of Kazakhstan IL-76 aircraft lost their lives. The Saudi Boeing 747 aircraft was on a scheduled passenger flight from Delhi to Dahran and the Kazakhastan aircraft was operating a non-scheduled flight from Chimkent, Kazakhastan to Delhi. After takeoff from Delhi, Delhi Approach had instructed the Saudi Boeing 747 aircraft to climb and maintain FL-140 (14,000 feet). The Kazakhastan aircraft had been instructed by Delhi Approach to descend and maintain FL-150 (15,000 feet). Suddenly at 1840 hours the blips of the two aircraft disappeared from the radar screen, as the two aircraft had collided. There was no casualty on the ground. The wreckage of Saudi Boeing 747 aircraft fell near village Dhani in Bhiwani District of Haryana and that of Kazakhastan IL-76 aircraft was lying near village Birohar in Rohtak District. Standing crops at the site of accident were damaged due to fire, impact and rescue operations. Ahmedabad airport resumes operations after brief shutdown following Air India flight crash July 11, 1996 Archana Airways L-410 aircraft VT-ETC was operating flight on Delhi-Shimla-Bhunter- Delhi sector on 11.07.96. The flight upto Shimla was unenventful. The aircraft took-off from Shimla with 9 persons including three flight crew members. At 0855 hrs. aircraft hit and crashed into a hill and caught fire near Kanda village. The Aircraft was totally destroyed and all the persons on board received fatal injuries and three persons on ground have also suffered injuries. May 18, 1996 Archana Airways L-410 aircraft VT-ETB was operating a scheduled flight from Delhi to Kanpur civil aerodrome on 18.05.96. The flight from Delhi to Kanpur was uneventful. The aircraft took-off from Delhi with 19 persons including three light crew. During landing, the aircraft touched down late and could not be stopped within the available runway length and went beyond the runway. The aircraft hit the boundary wall of the airport and came to halt. The aircraft sustained major damages. There was no fire and no injury to persons on board the aircraft. December 2, 1995 Indian Airlines B-737 aircraft VT-ECS was operating flight IC-492 of 2.12.95 under the command of Capt. Adil Mistry with co-pilot Sandeep Marwah and four cabin crew. The flight upto Jaipur was uneventful. Aircraft took-off from Jaipur with 98+4 passengers. Aircraft landed at Delhi at 1253 hrs. After landing the aircraft could not be stopped within the available runway length and went beyond the runway into kutcha. The aircraft was substantially damaged. There was minor fire. Six passengers received minor injuries. July 1, 1995 East West F-27 aircraft was engaged in a training flight at Baroda airport on 1.7.1995. The aircraft was under the command of an Examiner pilot with the trainee pilot on right hand seat. The first touch and go exercise was uneventful. During the second exercise, immediately on touchdown the left main landing gear failed at its shock strut outer cylinder and the inner cylinder with the main wheel assembly attached to it got liberated. The aircraft continued moving forward with the remaining portion of left shock strut contacting the runway followed by the left engine propellers and fuselage bottom and finally came to rest on the runway left side strip. There was no fire and no injury to persons on board the aircraft. The aircraft sustained substantial damage. December 17, 1994 Indian Airlines A-320 aircraft VT-EPM was operating a scheduled flight from Madras to Hyderabad on 17.12.1994. The aircraft was under the command of Capt. C.J. Bhoopal with Capt. Sree Nair as First Officer. In all there were 144 persons on board the aircraft. After reaching over Hyderabad airfield, the aircraft did normal descent and was cleared for VOR DME approach for Runway 09. Aftertouchdown when the aircraft was rolling, it was hit by an unauthorised outsider on moped, who was attempting to cross the runway. The aircraft continued rolling with normal braking. The moped rider died on the spot and his body was ragmented into pieces and scattered all over the runway. Aircraft sustained slight damage. November 15, 1993 Indian Airlines Airbus A-300 aircraft VT-EDV was operating scheduled flight IC-440 (Madras- Hyderabad sector) on 15.11.1993. There were a total of 262 persons were on board the aircraft including 247+3 passengers and 12 crew members. The aircraft could not land at Hyderabad due to low visibility and carried out a missed approach. After the missed approach, the aircraft reported Flap Problem and was holding overhead at Hyderabad during which the flight crew enquired visibility at nearby Air Force airfields which was also low. The aircraft then diverted to Madras. Due to flaps problem, the crew had to maintain low speed and low altitude as a result of which it experienced fuel shortage and sought permission from Madras control for landing at Tirupati. However, the aircraft could not reach even Tirupati airport and executed forced landing in an open paddy field about 14 nautical miles from Tirupati airport. The aircraft dragged on the soft paddy field before coming to final stop. There was no fire. Passenger evacuation was carried out by means of escape slides. All the persons on board escaped unhurt except four who received minor injuries. April 26, 1993 Indian Airlines Boeing 737 aircraft VT-ECQ was operating scheduled flight IC-491 from Delhi- Jaipur-Udaipur-Aurangabad-Bombay on 26.4.1993. The flight from Delhi to Aurangabad was uneventful. The aircraft took-off from Aurangabad with 118 persons on board. Aircraft lifted up almost at the end of runway and impacted heavily with a lorry carrying pressed cotton bales running from North to South on a highway at a distance of about 410 feet from the end of runway. The aircraft left main landing gear, left engine bottom cowling and thrust reverser impacted the left side of the truck at a height of nearly seven feet from the level of the road. Thereafter the aircraft hit the high tension electric wires nearly 3 kms North-East of the runway and hit the ground. In all 55 persons received fatal injuries. The aircraft was destroyed due to post impact fire. January 9, 1993 On 9th January, 1993 TU-154 aircraft No. 85533 wet leased by Indian Airlines from Uzbekistan Airways was operating flight IC-840 from Hyderabad to Delhi. The aircraft was being flown by Uzbeki operating crew and there were 165 persons on board including the crew. The aircraft touched down slightly outside the right edge of the runway, collided with some fixed installations on the ground, got airborne once again and finally touched down on kutcha ground on the right side of the runway. At this stage the right wing and the tail of the aircraft broke away and it came to rest in an inverted position. During the process, the aircraft caught fire and was destroyed. Most occupants of the aircraft escaped unhurt. Six persons suffered either limb fracture or other serious injuries while 45 persons suffered injuries of a minor nature. Boeing stock tumbles over 7% in pre-market following Air India crash September 4, 1992 Indian Airlines B-737 aircraft VT-EGJ was operating scheduled flight IC-493 (Udaipur-Bombay sector) on 4.9.92. During take-off roll, the aircraft hit an Aerodrome Attendant (Chowkidar) on the runway centerline, who received fatal injuries. The aircraft continued with the take-off roll, got airborne and subsequently landed uneventfully at its destination Bombay. January 10, 1992 Air Lanka B-737 aircraft was engaged in a Scheduled International Passenger flight from Colombo to Madras on 10.1.1992. During landing on Runway 07 at Madras airport, the right landing gear attachment failed and right engine bottom contacting runway surface immediately on touchdown. The aircraft started swerving towards the right of runway center line as it moved forward on its wheels with right engine cowling and bottom rubbing the runway surface. The aircraft finally came to stop with its nose wheel and failed right main landing gear entering the grassy side strip soon after crossing the Delta taxiway. The fire emanating from the right engine was extinguished by the Safety Services and the crew and passengers evacuated the aircraft through the left side exit doors by means of the slide chutes. August 16, 1991 Indian Airlines Boeing 737 aircraft VT-EFL while operating flight IC-257 (Calcutta-Imphal) on 16.8.91 crashed about 20 nautical miles from the Imphal airport. The aircraft had earlier taken off from Calcutta at 0615 hrs UTC and it lost contact with Imphal airport at 0716 hrs UTC at approximately 5000 feet on ILS. The aircraft was under the command of Capt. Shekhar Haldar with Capt. D.B. Roychoudhary as First Officer. There were a total of 68+1 persons on board the aircraft including crewmembers. All the 69 persons died in the accident. The aircraft was completely destroyed. May 7, 1990 Air India Boeing 747 aircraft VT-EBO was operating flight AI-132 (London-Delhi-Bombay). During landing at Delhi Airport, on 7.5.1990, its left outboard engine (No. 1 Engine) partially separated from its wing attachment and consequently left wing caught fire which was quickly extinguished by the Airport Safety Services. The passengers were safely evacuated through slide chutes. The left wing of the aircraft was substantially damaged. February 14, 1990 Indian Airlines Airbus A-320 aircraft VT-EPN was operating Bombay-Bangalore sector on 14.2.1990. The aircraft took off from Bombay at 11:58 hours. There were 146 persons on board which included the two cockpit crew, five cabin crew, and four infants. The flight from Bombay to Bangalore was uneventful. During the final approach to Runway 09 at Bangalore the aircraft first contacted ground within the boundary of the Karnataka Golf Association approximately 2300 ft. prior to the beginning of Runway 09. The aircraft went up into the air for a very short duration after which it again contacted the ground on all three gears and then hit an embankment at the boundary of the golf course. The aircraft finally came to rest outside the boundary wall of the airport. The aircraft was destroyed due to impact and fire. In all 92 persons on board including two pilots and two cabin crew died in the accident.
2 Girls Die In Separate Incidents In Jodhpur After Mistaking Pesticide For Water
Two minor girls in Jodhpur, Rajasthan, died after mistakenly drinking pesticide from unmarked bottles in separate homes, highlighting the dangers of unsafe storage
Utkal Ranjan Sahoo Is New Chairman Of Rajasthan Public Service Commission
Mr Sahoo began his service in Rajasthan as Jodhpur ASP in 1991.
Rajasthan makes mark on bird conservation as 2 wetlands get international laurel
JAIPUR: On the occasion of World Environment Day, Rajasthan has achieved a major milestone in environmental conservation. Menar village in Udaipur district and Khinchan village in the Phalodi tehsil of Jodhpur have been designated as internationally significant Ramsar sites. With this recognition, the number of Ramsar sites in Rajasthan has increased to four. Menar, popularly known as the Bird Village, holds a special significance for bird lovers and environmentalists. The dedicated efforts of the local community in conserving avian biodiversity have now received global recognition. Similarly, Khinchan is renowned for its rich biodiversity and the annual arrival of migratory birds, particularly the Demoiselle Cranes (locally known as Kurjan). The designation as Ramsar sites is expected to boost eco-tourism in both villages. This development will not only create new employment opportunities for local youth but will also ensure the conservation of ponds and lakes. Improved wetland management will help prevent pollution, control illegal encroachments, and enhance infrastructure for tourists. Plans are underway to promote homestays and other tourism-related ventures likely to increase influx of domestic and international tourists. Previously, only Keoladeo Ghana National Park in Bharatpur and Sambhar Lake in Jaipur had Ramsar site status in the state. Union Minister for Environment, Forest and Climate Change Bhupender Yadav shared the news on social media on Wednesday. He said with the inclusion of Menar and Khinchan, India now has a total of 91 Ramsar sites. This, he emphasised, reflects the countrys growing commitment to environmental conservation and public participation in safeguarding natural resources. To qualify for Ramsar designation, a wetland must host at least 20,000 birds or 1% of the global population of any bird species annually.
Govt has nothing to hide: Minister
JODHPUR, June 1: With opposition parties demanding a special Parliament session in light of Operation Sindoor, Union Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat on Sunday asserted that the Government has nothing to hide and they will have ample opportunity to ask questions during the Monsoon Session, which is a few weeks away. Follow the Daily Excelsior channel on WhatsApp The BJP leader, however, expressed doubts about whether the opposition parties intended to seek answers and pointed out that Prime Minister Narendra Modi [] The post Govt has nothing to hide: Minister appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Nothing to hide: Shekhawat rejects call for special session, says Monsoon House will offer answers
JODHPUR: With opposition parties demanding a special Parliament session in light of Operation Sindoor, Union Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat on Sunday asserted that the government has nothing to hide and they will have ample opportunity to ask questions during the Monsoon Session, which is a few weeks away. The BJP leader, however, expressed doubts about whether the opposition parties intended to seek answers and pointed out that Prime Minister Narendra Modi had spoken extensively in recent days on key national issues, including Operation Sindoor, that they have been raising. The Congress on Sunday demanded the immediate convening of a special session of Parliament to discuss the military and foreign policy strategy in the wake of remarks by Chief of Defence Staff Gen Anil Chauhan. The Congress also asked that the government take all parties and the nation into confidence and discuss India's defence preparedness and strategy after Operation Sindoor. Speaking to the media on Sunday, Union Culture and Tourism Shekhawat pointed out that India's parliamentary system already has well-established procedures for members to raise issues in both the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha and seek answers. The Monsoon Session is about to start in the next 20-25 days, everyone will get an opportunity to raise their issues, Shekhawat said. He emphasised that the government is willing to resolve any confusion or concerns raised by the opposition and there is nothing to hide. In my view, the opposition should first decide what exactly they want to hear from the prime minister. If their intention is truly to seek answers, then over the past three days, the prime minister has already spoken in detail from three different parts of the country on the current state of the nation, Operation Sindoor, and all the key issues the opposition has been raising, Shekhawat said. Referring to Operation Sindoor, the BJP leader noted that the global community has been deeply impressed by India's courage and strength displayed during the operation. He took a swipe at the opposition parties, saying when they run out of substantive matters, they often resort to sensational topics to grab attention. In the last three days alone, the prime minister has addressed key national concerns, including Operation Sindoor, in great detail. These are the very matters the opposition claims it wants answers on, Shekhawat added. On the arrest of the personal secretary to former Congress minister Saleh Mohammad on charges of espionage, Shekhawat called the situation unfortunate. He stressed that a comprehensive investigation should be conducted into the matter. Be it a former minister or someone else, when it comes to national security, there must be a thorough and fair investigation. Every association and link of such persons must be scrutinised. Such anti-national activities cannot go unpunished, he said.
Justices Anjaria, Bishnoi, Chandurkar take oath, SC regains full working strength of 34 judges
NEW DELHI: Chief Justice of India B R Gavai on Friday administered the oath of office to Justices N V Anjaria, Vijay Bishnoi and A S Chandurkar as judges of the Supreme Court. The CJI administered the oath to the judges at a ceremony in apex court premises. With the swearing in of the judges, the top court will regain its full working strength of 34 judges, including the CJI. The Supreme Court collegium on Monday recommended the appointment of Karnataka High Court Chief Justice Anjaria, Gauhati High Court Chief Justice Bishnoi, and Bombay High Court judge Justice Chandurkar as judges of the top court. Law Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal announced their appointment on X. Their names were recommended against the three existing vacancies of judges in the top court following the superannuation of ex-CJI Sanjiv Khanna, and Justices Abhay S Oka and Hrishikesh Roy. Justice Anjaria had taken oath as the chief justice of Karnataka High Court on February 25, 2024. Earlier, he was elevated as additional judge, Gujarat High Court, on November 21, 2011 and confirmed as permanent judge on September 6, 2013. Born on March 23, 1965 at Ahmedabad, Justice Anjaria obtained a Master's degree in law in 1989 from University School of Law, Ahmedabad. He started law practice in the Gujarat High Court from August 1988 and conducted matters involving constitutional issues and all categories of civil cases, labour and service. Justice Bishnoi took oath as the chief justice of the Gauhati High Court on February 5, 2024. He was appointed additional judge of the Rajasthan High Court on January 8, 2013, and took oath as a permanent judge of the high court on January 7, 2015. Born on March 26, 1964 in Jodhpur, Justice Bishnoi was enrolled as an advocate on July 8, 1989. He practised law at the Rajasthan High Court and the Central Administrative Tribunal at Jodhpur. Born on April 7, 1965, Justice Chandurkar joined the Bar on July 21, 1988, after obtaining a law degree. Justice Chandurkar shifted to Nagpur in 1992 and practised in various courts. He was elevated as an additional judge of the Bombay High Court on June 21, 2013.
413 Pakistani drone attacks foiled on Western Border after Operation Sindoor, says BSF IG Garg
JAIPUR:In retaliation for Operation Sindoor launched by the Indian Armed Forces, Pakistan launched 413 drones and several Chinese-made missiles into Indian territory along the western border, but all efforts were thwarted by India's robust air defence system. India displayed its defence prowess as the BSF, Army and Air Force successfully foiled each threat and not a single Indian soldier was harmed, thanks to the efficient performance of India's air defence system. Addressing a press conference in Jodhpur on Monday, BSF Rajasthan Frontier IG MGarg said Pakistan had launched the attack with full preparation and tried to target several sensitive locations, including the Phalodi airbase in Rajasthan, but all efforts were neutralised. Not only did it (Pak) send drones and missiles, but also moved Army units and tanks close to the border. However, Indian forces were already on high alert to deal with the offensive, he said. IG Garg revealed that Pakistan carried out a total of 413 drone attacks across the border districts of Barmer, Jaisalmer, Bikaner, and Sriganganagar. All drones were intercepted and shot down mid-air by Indias air defence system, he stated. The Indian forces responded with precise timing and wherever necessary. Thanks to this timely response and prior preparedness using modern technology, not a single civilian casualty was reported along the western border. While a wall of someones house collapsed and another house suffered minor damage, the overall impact was minimal due to our advance planning and use of cutting-edge resources, he added. The IG also confirmed that Pakistans missiles were armed and potentially lethal, but none succeeded in breaching Indian territory. Before they could touch Indian soil, our anti-missile systems destroyed them mid-air. What landed on the ground was only debris or empty shells, he clarified. Responding to questions about developments across the border during Operation Sindoor, IG Garg said, Pakistan had deployed its army along its side of the border, but our soldiers did not retreat even an inch. Both countries have now announced a ceasefire, but Operation Sindoor has not ended it has only been temporarily suspended. He emphasized that the BSF remains fully prepared for ground combat. BSF has always been at the frontline. Even during Operation Sindoor, while Pakistan evacuated many villages, we didnt need to evacuate even one. Our jawans stood firm, and so did the people of our border villages shoulder to shoulder with the nation. Highlighting the role of women in the forces, IG Garg praised the women personnel of BSFs Seema Bhavani unit. Everyone was ready to help each other. The courage and commitment displayed by our women soldiers proved that India's women's power is second to none. They stood guard on the border with the same passion and bravery as the men, 24 hours a day. Their dedication is truly commendable.
Radico Khaitan Unveils Two New Premium Whiskies: TRIKL And Morpheus
Radico Khaitan, a leading name in the Indian spirits industry, has announced the launch of two new premium whiskies: TRIKL Indian Single Malt and Morpheus Super Premium Whisky. These additions further expand Radico's diverse portfolio, which includes well-known brands such as Rampur, Jodhpur, and Jaisalmer. TRIKL Indian Single Malt is crafted to reflect India's rich cultural heritage. This whisky is inspired by ancient wisdom and represents a journey through time past, present, and future. TRIKL is designed for those who appreciate the depth and complexity of a finely crafted single malt, the company said in its social media post https://www.linkedin.com/feed/update/urn:li:activity:7331744683859091456 Morpheus Super Premium Whisky is a blend of imported Scotch malts and Indian grain spirits, aged in Bourbon barrels. This whisky is characterised by its fruity floral notes and smooth, intense flavor. Morpheus aims to cater to the ambitious and discerning whisky enthusiasts, the post further read. Radico Khaitan has established itself as a pioneer in the Indian spirits market, with a legacy of creating high-quality brands. Rampur is celebrated for its single malts, Jodhpur for its premium gins, and Jaisalmer for its craft spirits. These new whiskies are expected to attract both connoisseurs and casual drinkers, offering a taste of India's heritage and craftsmanship. Earlier in March the company told NDTV Profit that it plans to launch three new luxury products soon in India as it looks to enhance portfolio in the country's booming premium market. Premiumisation is a trend that is here to stay, Chief Financial Officer Dilip Banthiya told NDTV Profit . We are going to launch two new luxury products in six months in India. Another super premium whiskey is also in pipeline, he said, without divulging more details on the new launches. Radico Khaitan Plans Three New Luxury Launches, Expects Premiumisation Trend To Stay . Read more on Business by NDTV Profit.
PM Modi unveils 18 modernised railway stations under Amrit Bharat plan in Gujarat
ALLAHABAD: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday virtually inaugurated 18 redeveloped railway stations in Gujarat, marking a major milestone under the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme. Under the scheme, over 1,300 stations across India are being transformed into modern transit hubs. The 18 stations, revamped at a combined cost of Rs 164 crore, are part of a sweeping overhaul of 87 railway stations across the state, with a total investment of Rs 6,303 crore. Driving this infrastructure push is Gujarats nearly complete railway electrification, with 97 per cent of its routes now electrified, positioning the state as a frontrunner in rail modernisation. Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel, who presided over the inauguration of the redeveloped Limbdi station, hailed the Prime Ministers leadership for catalysing a new era in Indias transport landscape. Since Narendra Modi became Prime Minister, infrastructure development has been a national priority - not just for citizens, but also for our armed forces. The modernisation of railways reflects his bold vision and unwavering commitment to nation-building, said CM Patel. The 18 newly inaugurated stations in Gujarat include Shihor Junction, Utran, Dakor, Derol, Hapa, Jamjodhpur, Jamwanthali, Kanalus Junction, Karamsad, Kosamba Junction, Limbdi, Mahuva, Mithapur, Morbi, Okha, Palitana, Rajula Junction, and Samakhiali. Each has been upgraded with cutting-edge amenities, improved connectivity, and enhanced passenger comfort - transforming them into modern gateways for millions. Railway Minister Vaishnaw says redevelopment of 500 more stations to be completed by 2027 Underscoring Gujarats rapid infrastructure advancement, the Chief Minister revealed that since 2014, the state has electrified 3,144 kilometres of railway lines, pushing total electrification to 97 per cent - a figure that outpaces national averages. This is the result of development-driven governance, where intent meets execution, he asserted. The CM also spotlighted the Rs 17,155 crore allocation for Gujarat in the 2025-26 railway budget, calling it a seismic jump - 29 times higher than the average allocation between 2009 and 2014. Gujarat today runs four Vande Bharat trains, connecting key routes with unmatched speed and comfort, said Patel. Whether its the daily commuter or the global traveller headed to the Statue of Unity Ekta Nagar, railway services are being reimagined to serve every segment. As part of the nationwide rollout, PM Modi also unveiled 103 redeveloped stations under the Amrit Bharat Yojana from Bikaner. Simultaneously, Chief Minister Patel toured the newly revamped Limbdi station, receiving a detailed briefing on its upgraded infrastructure and world-class amenities. These redeveloped stations are not just buildings - they are symbols of a new India on the move, the CM concluded. Sindoor turned into 'barood', destroyed nine terror hideouts in 22 minutes: PM Modi
A young girl, dressed in uniform, recited the ancient Sanskrit hymn, Shiv Tandav Stotram, with unwavering energy and clarity, leaving the audience in awe.
Heatwave intensifies in Rajasthan, Pilani sizzles at 46.6 deg C
Rajasthan is experiencing a severe heatwave, with Pilani reaching a scorching 46.4 degrees Celsius. The Meteorological Center forecasts that the heatwave will intensify across Bikaner, Jodhpur, and parts of Shekhawati for the next several days. While strong winds are expected in border regions, some areas may see thunderstorms and light rain in the coming days.
Qutub Minar lights up in Tricolour as India unites under 'Ek Desh Ek Dhadkan' campaign
NEW DELHI: In a poignant gesture of unity and remembrance, Minister of Culture Gajendra Singh Shekhawat visited Qutub Minar on 14 May 2025, where a special projection mapping of the Tiranga was showcased. He also paid tribute, lauding the armed forces and saluting the nationalistic spirit ignited by the courage and valour of the nations unsung heroes and bravehearts. In a tribute to the undying spirit of patriotism and to honour the bravehearts of the nation, the Ministry of Culture has launched a powerful and binding initiative Ek Desh Ek Dhadkan (One Nation, One Heartbeat). Designed to unify the nation in a shared rhythm of national pride, the campaign has already begun to resonate strongly with citizens across India. The slogan #EkDeshEkDhadkan (#OneNationOneHeartbeat) is being widely adopted across digital platforms, amplifying the spirit of unity, patriotic fervour and reverence for the Tiranga. This embodies the collective sentiment of a grateful nation. We salute the valour and sacrifice of our unsung heroes and bravehearts. Officials said that over the past 48 hours, all 43 institutions under the aegis of the ministry have shown cohesive and enthusiastic participation. The participation is expressed with saluting the armed forces and bravehearts along with the spirit of Tiranga which binds us together. All institutions have changed their display pictures (DPs) to the Tiranga, said officials. , , ! #TirangaYatra #SindoorYatra #EkDeshEkDhadkan pic.twitter.com/PITUQ3ap0C Gajendra Singh Shekhawat (@gssjodhpur) May 14, 2025 The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has illuminated its prominent monuments in the Tricolour. Many other cultural institutions such as Victoria Memorial (West Bengal), Salarjung Museum (Andhra Pradesh), National Gallery of Modern Art (NGMA) Delhi, and Regional Science Centre, Lucknow have joined the campaign. The National Archives of India has also joined in, lighting up its iconic building. Under the supervision of the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), more than 60 heritage monuments across the country have been lit up with the Tricolour, including the Red Fort, Qila Rai Pithora, Safdarjung Tomb, and Purana Qila in Delhi. Other monuments include Kumbhalgarh, Chittorgarh, and Fort Ghanta in Rajasthan, Gulab Badi (Uttar Pradesh), Udaygiri Caves (Odisha), Ashokan Column (Bihar), Rahatgarh Fort (Madhya Pradesh), and Fort Ballarpur (Maharashtra). Institutions and organisations under the ministry are initiating programmes such as special storytelling sessions, painting tributes, special exhibitions, musical tributes, quizzes, badge and wristband distribution, and Tiranga Rallies with mass participation to collectively celebrate with people this moment of glory for all Indians, said officials.
JAIPUR: The Rajasthan government has challenged the acquittal of Bollywood actors Saif Ali Khan, Tabu, Neelam, and Sonali Bendre in the 1998 blackbuck poaching case, in which superstar Salman Khan was convicted in 2018. The matter was heard on Friday in the Rajasthan High Court, where a plea for leave to appeal was taken up. Justice Manoj Kumar Garg directed that the case be listed along with other related matters. According to Advocate Mahipal Vishnoi, the incident occurred on 1 October 1998, during the shooting of the film Hum Saath-Saath Hain in Kankani village near Jodhpur. It was alleged that the actors, led by Bollywood superstar Salman Khan, had hunted blackbucks, a protected species under the Wildlife Protection Act. On 5 April 2018, the trial court convicted actor Salman Khan and sentenced him to five years in prison. However, co-accused Saif Ali Khan, Tabu, Neelam, Sonali Bendre, and a local man, Dushyant Singh, were acquitted due to lack of evidence and were given the benefit of the doubt. In its petition, the state government has sought permission to transfer related matters and include Salman Khan's conviction as part of the broader appealover seven years after the verdict was delivered in a Jodhpur court. The High Court has scheduled the next hearing for 28 July, when all related cases will be heard together. Following his conviction in April 2018, Salman Khan was sent to Jodhpur Central Jail. However, on 7 April 2018, the District and Sessions Court granted him conditional bail on a surety of Rs 50,000, and he was released the same day. Currently, he remains out on bail, while the case continues to be pending before the High Court. In 1998, a total of five cases were registered against actor Salman Khan and his co-stars, including Sonali Bendre, Tabu, Saif Ali Khan, Satish Shah, and some locals of Jodhpur, for allegedly hunting two blackbucks and one chinkara during the shooting of the film Hum Saath-Saath Hain. Salman Khan gets relief in Blackbuck poaching case, pens note of thanks for fans In the Kankani Village case, on 5 April 2018, Salman Khan was convicted and sentenced to five years in prison. He was sent to Jodhpur Central Jail. However, on 7 April 2018, the District and Sessions Court granted him conditional bail on a surety of Rs 50,000, and he was released the same day. He is currently out on bail, and the matter remains pending in the Rajasthan High Court. In the Ghoda Farmhouse case, the CJM Court in Jodhpur sentenced Salman Khan to five years in prison on 10 April 2006. He challenged the verdict in the High Court, which acquitted him on 25 July 2016. The Rajasthan government appealed the acquittal in the Supreme Court, where the matter is still pending. In the Bhavad Village case, on 17 February 2006, the CJM Court convicted Salman Khan and sentenced him to one year in prison. The High Court later acquitted him. The state government filed an appeal in the Supreme Court, and the case is still under consideration. In the Arms Act case, on 18 January 2017, Salman Khan was acquitted in a case filed under the Arms Act. The state government challenged the acquittal in the High Court, and the matter is still pending. In all these multiple cases, the other actors and actresses have so far escaped any conviction or penalties. But with the Rajasthan government once again pleading in court, troubles for the Bollywood stars could mount, nearly 27 years after the alleged poaching scandals! Court dismisses plea against Salman Khan for 'false affidavit' in Arms Act case
Bihar soldier Rambabu Singh laid to rest with honours, village pays tribute to fallen hero
PATNA: Residents of Basilpur village in Bihars Siwan district on Wednesday bid adieu to a soldier, Rambabu Singh who died early on Tuesday morning after receiving fatal injuries during an operation in Jammu and Kashmir late on May 12. They felt pride over the supreme sacrifice made by son of the soil for the sake of the nations sovereignty. We are proud of our son of the soil for his supreme sacrifice for the sake of the nations sovereignty. His sacrifice will never go in vain. He laid down his life for the sake of Bharat Mata. The entire village is proud of him, Ganesh Prasad Singh, a resident of Basilpur village, told this reporter over the phone soon after the body of Rambabu arrived on Wednesday afternoon. The shocking news, however, came barely five months after Rambabus marriage. Rambabu (28) married Kumari Anajali Singh, a resident of Dhanbad in neighbouring Jharkhand, on December 14, 2024. Anjali is now carrying a pregnancy of about four months. She rushed to her in-laws house in Siwan after hearing the shocking news. Anjali said that she had her last conversation with her husband over phone at around 10 am on May 12. He promised to call me again in the evening as he was getting late for his duty. Thereafter, I got engaged in routine work. In the evening, I was eagerly waiting for his call. I rushed to the mobile phone when it rang up, she said. But it was not her husbands call. A man on the other side wanted to get details about her husband. As I am educated, I suspected the man on the other side to be a cyber fraud trying to collect details about my husband. I disconnected the phone call before the man on the other side could know more about him, she recalled with tears rolling down her cheeks. It was, in fact, a call from the Indian Army headquarters that later informed Rambabus elder brother, Akhilesh Singh, a loco pilot in Dhanbad. Rambabus father-in-law, Subhash Chandra Singh, said he had visited his native village in Siwan in April. He was recently transferred to Jodhpur from Jammu and Kashmir, where he was posted as an operator in the S-400 air defence system. But he could not join his new place of posting due to heightened tension between India and Pakistan after the Pahalgam terror incident. I hope the government will take care of my daughters well-being and provide her a government job, apart from the compensation, he said, adding that he was proud of his son-in-laws sacrifice. Rambabus uncle Nishikant, said, Rambabu was eager to join the Indian Army from his childhood, and he worked hard to fulfil his dream. He had joined the Indian Army in 2018. His father Ram Vichar Prasad, a former panchayat up-pramukh, died about two years back. The mortal remains of the soldier were consigned to flames at the village ghat with full state honours. Slogans like Bharat Mata Ki Jai and Shaheed Rambabu Amar Rahe rent the air. A large number of people, including senior officials of the Siwan district administration, took part in the funeral procession. Earlier, the leader of the opposition in Bihar assembly Tejashwi Prasad Yadav visited Patna airport and paid floral tributes to the departed soldier. A BSF sub-inspector, Mohammad Imtiyaz, a native of Saran district, laid down his life during an operation in Jammu and Kashmir.
Airlines asked to resume normal operations at 32 shut airports from May 15
NEW DELHI: Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu on Tuesday night expressed optimism that airlines would resume their normal operations to the 32 closed airports from May 15. He released a statement to this effect after holding a review meeting with top officials and representatives of all airlines in New Delhi. The Minister said, With the NOTAM (Notice to Airmen) ending on 15th May, I suggested that airlines resume their normal schedules from the 15th across all 32 airports for which the NOTAM was issued. All airlines responded positively to this suggestion. A Ministry source said, At present, partial operations are taking place. The full-fledged operations will resume from May 15. This was the outcome after the meeting held on Tuesday. The NOTAM to close 32 airports in the North and Western India upto May 15 (5.29 am) was issued by the Airports Authority of India (AAI) on May 9 as a precautionary step after the launch of Operation Sindoor on May 7 . A revised NOTAM by AAI said the airports would open for commercial operations from Monday (May 12) but leading airlines like Indigo and Air India had publicly stated they would not operate flights to specific airports on Monday and Tuesday (May 13). This was on account of unconfirmed reports of drone attacks by Pakistan at a few cities. Indigo operated a flight from Delhi to Amritsar but it had to turn back due to a sudden blackout imposed in Amritsar. Airport Closures and Flight Cancellations body { font-family: Arial, sans-serif; background-color: #f9f9f9; padding: 20px; } h2 { color: #d32f2f; /* A bold red color */ text-align: center; margin-bottom: 20px; } table { width: 100%; border-collapse: collapse; box-shadow: 0 0 8px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.1); } th, td { border: 1px solid #ddd; padding: 12px 15px; text-align: left; } th { background-color: #c62828; /* A deep red */ color: white; } tr:nth-child(even) { background-color: #f2f2f2; } tr:nth-child(odd) { background-color: #fafafa; } tr:hover { background-color: #f1f1f1; } .bold { font-weight: bold; } Airport Closures and Flight Cancellations Airport Location Status Ambala Haryana Closed Hindon UP Closed Naliya Gujarat Closed Sarsawa UP Closed Uttarlai Rajasthan Closed Srinagar Jammu & Kashmir Closed Awantipur Jammu & Kashmir Closed Jammu Jammu & Kashmir Closed Amritsar Punjab Closed Chandigarh Punjab Closed Ludhiana Punjab Closed Patiala Punjab Closed Bhatinda Punjab Closed Adampur Punjab Closed Halwara Punjab Closed Pathankot Punjab Closed Bhuntar Himachal Pradesh Closed Shimla Himachal Pradesh Closed Kangra-Gaggal Himachal Pradesh Closed Kishangarh Rajasthan Closed Thoise Ladakh Closed Leh Ladakh Closed Mundra Gujarat Closed Jamnagar Gujarat Closed Hirasar Gujarat Closed Porbandar Gujarat Closed Keshod Gujarat Closed Kandla Gujarat Closed Bhuj Gujarat Closed Jaisalmer Rajasthan Closed Jodhpur Rajasthan Closed Bikaner Rajasthan Closed Air India Announcement: In view of the latest developments and keeping your safety in mind, flights to and from Jammu, Leh, Jodhpur, Amritsar, Bhuj, Jamnagar, Chandigarh, and Rajkot are cancelled for Tuesday, 13th May. Indigo Announcement: All flights to and from Amritsar, Jammu, Leh, Rajkot, Srinagar, and Chandigarh are cancelled for Tuesday (May 13). Responses from other airlines are awaited.
Rajasthan: Barmer youth found dead in Pali after 40 months in India, Pakistan jails
JAIPUR: The body of a 24-year-old Gemararam Meghwal, who had spent over two years imprisoned in Pakistan, was found hanging in a factory in Pali district on Monday. Gemararam, a resident of Barmer district, had crossed into Pakistan in 2021 under unusual circumstances. According to police and local sources, he was reportedly in a relationship with a minor girl from his neighbourhood. During the COVID-19 pandemic, he had gone to Jodhpur to work as a labourer. On returning to his village, instead of going home, he visited the girls house. When her family discovered this, he fled toward the border and is believed to have illegally crossed into Pakistan by jumping over the barbed wire fence. Soon after, Pakistani Rangers apprehended him and lodged him in Karachi jail. Back home, his family filed a missing person's report at the Bijrad police station after searching for him for 810 days. His father, Jugataram, reportedly fell severely ill following the incident and later passed away, devastated by his sons disappearance. On February 14, 2023, after diplomatic efforts by Indias Ministry of External Affairs, Gemararam was released from the Pakistani jail and repatriated through the Wagah border. However, his legal troubles didnt end there. After his return, the minor girls family filed a case against him under the POCSO Act and for rape. He was arrested again and lodged in Balotra jail, where he remained for 12 months. In total, he spent nearly 40 months behind bars in both India and Pakistan. Following his release, Gemararam began working as a coal miner in an iron factory in Jadan town, Pali. According to police, he had been employed there for about a year and lived in shared accommodation with his brother and maternal uncle. On Monday afternoon, his body was found hanging in an empty room of the factory. Coming to know about this, his brother and uncle immediately informed the police. After the post-mortem was conducted on Tuesday morning, police handed over the body to his family, who returned with it to Barmer. Preliminary investigations suggest suicide, but the exact reason remains unknown. Police have launched a detailed probe into the matter. (If you are having suicidal thoughts, or are worried about a friend or need emotional support, someone is always there to listen. Call Sneha Foundation - 04424640050, Tele Manas - 14416 (available 24x7) or iCall, the Tata Institute of Social Sciences' helpline - 02225521111, which is available Monday to Saturday from 8 am to 10 pm.)
AHMEDABAD: Gujarat government employees get relief as the ceasefire between India and Pakistan brings a return to normalcy. Following the May 10 truce, the revoked leave was officially reinstated. However, despite the easing of hostilities, flights to Bhuj and Rajkot were cancelled on Tuesday, with airlines citing continued security concerns. The airlines are actively monitoring developments and has pledged to keep passengers updated. Notably, drone activity was detected near the Kutch border last night, fueling continued vigilance. On May 12, eight airports in GujaratBhuj, Kandla, Keshod, Jamnagar, Naliya, Mundra, Hirasar (Rajkot), and Porbandarresumed operations after being shut down amid security concerns. However, just a day later, airlines reversed course. On May 13, flights to Rajkot were cancelled, followed by Air India's broader suspension of services to Bhuj, Jamnagar, and Rajkot. This wave of cancellations wasnt isolatedflights to key strategic locations like Jammu, Leh, Jodhpur, Amritsar, and Chandigarh were also grounded, signalling continued unease despite reopened runways. Air India, in its statement, said, In view of the latest developments and keeping your safety in mind, flights to and from Jammu, Leh, Jodhpur, Amritsar, Bhuj, Jamnagar, Chandigarh, and Rajkot are cancelled for Tuesday, 13th May. In light of the latest developments and with your safety as our utmost priority, flights to and from Jammu, Amritsar, Chandigarh, Leh, Srinagar, and Rajkot are cancelled for 13th May 2025. said Indigo in its statement Meanwhile, on the evening of May 12, Pakistan escalated tensions by deploying drones across multiple frontstargeting Gujarats Kutch district, Jammu & Kashmir, Punjabs Amritsar, Rajasthans Barmer, reportedly. This calculated provocation came despite ceasefire announcements, exposing persistent volatility
Flight disruptions continue amid India-Pak tensions
New Delhi: Air India and IndiGo have announced the cancellation of flights to and from several key cities near the India-Pakistan border for Tuesday. Air India confirmed the cancellation of two-way flight operations to and from Jammu, Leh, Jodhpur, Amritsar, Bhuj, Jamnagar, Chandigarh, and Rajkot. IndiGo similarly suspended services to and from Jammu, Amritsar, Chandigarh, 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 .
Air India, IndiGo announce flight cancellations to seven cities amid security concerns
IndiGo and Air India have suspended flight operations to multiple cities in northern and western India for May 13, citing precautionary airspace restrictions and heightened security measures amid escalating tensions between India and Pakistan. Air India has cancelled round-trip flights to and from Jammu, Leh, Jodhpur, Amritsar, Bhuj, Jamnagar, Chandigarh, and Rajkot. Sharing the update on X (formerly Twitter), the airline stated, In view of the latest developments and keeping your safety in mind, flights to and from Jammu, Leh, Jodhpur, Amritsar, Bhuj, Jamnagar, Chandigarh, and Rajkot are cancelled for Tuesday, 13th May. We are monitoring the situation and will keep you updated. #TravelAdvisory In view of the latest developments and keeping your safety in mind, flights to and from Jammu, Leh, Jodhpur, Amritsar, Bhuj, Jamnagar, Chandigarh and Rajkot are cancelled for Tuesday, 13th May. We are monitoring the situation and will keep you updated. For more Air India (@airindia) May 12, 2025 IndiGo has also announced the cancellation of all flights to and from Srinagar, Jammu, Amritsar, Leh, Chandigarh, and Rajkot until 11:59 PM on Saturday. In a statement, IndiGo said, We understand how this may disrupt your travel plans and regret the inconvenience caused. Our teams are actively monitoring the situation and will promptly keep you informed of any further updates. #6ETravelUpdate pic.twitter.com/KnJYNZgOhF IndiGo (@IndiGo6E) May 12, 2025 On Monday evening, an IndiGo flight en route to Amritsar returned to Delhi after precautionary blackout measures were implemented in Amritsar. The Airports Authority of India had on Monday resumed operations at the 32 airports that were temporarily closed in the wake of the recent military standoff between India and Pakistan . The suspension of civil flight services, which began on May 9, affected several key airports in northern and western India, including Srinagar and Amritsar. The temporary closure was initiated following heightened tensions along the border, and flight operations remained suspended until May 15. Flight services resume at 32 key airports closed amid India-Pakistan tensions
Air India Announces Flight Cancellations at 8 Locations for Today
The airlines announced the cancellation of two-way flight operations to and from Jammu, Leh, Jodhpur, Amritsar, Bhuj, Jamnagar, Chandigarh and Rajkot for Tuesday
Air India Announces Flight Cancellations For Today Amid India-Pak Tensions
Air India on Tuesday announced the cancellation of two-way flight operations to and from Jammu, Leh, Jodhpur, Amritsar, Bhuj, Jamnagar, Chandigarh and Rajkot for Tuesday.
2016 Pic of Crashed Fighter Jet From Jodhpur Falsely Linked to Operation Sindoor
This photo shows a plane crash that happened in Jodhpur, Rajasthan in 2016.
Rajasthan mothers name newborns after Army Operation 'Sindoor,' amid Indo-Pak tensions
JAIPUR: Amid rising military tensions between India and Pakistan, patriotism is finding a unique expression in Rajasthan. Inspired by the Indian Armys recent counter-terrorism initiative, 'Operation Sindoor', several families in the state are naming their newborns after the operation. At the Government Hospital in Nawalgarh, Jhunjhunu district, three babies have already been named 'Sindoor'. The move comes as a symbolic tribute to the army and the sacrifices of soldiers and their families following the terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu & Kashmir. Seema, a new mother at the hospital, expressed her pride, saying, This name will always inspire my son to love his country. The childs grandmother added, We lost many of our bravehearts in the attack. I will send my grandson to the army so he can serve the nation. Sanju, a resident of Jhajhar village, also named her son 'Sindoor'. I gave birth four days ago. My dream is that my son grows up to protect the country. Our mothers and sisters lost their sindoor (symbol of marriage) in the Pahalgam attack. The Indian Army has given a befitting reply through Operation Sindoor, she said. Similarly, Kanchan from Kasairu village named her newborn daughter 'Sindoor' on Friday. This is my tribute to Operation Sindoor. The army has responded courageously to Pakistans cowardly act, she said. Dr. Jitendra Chaudhary, a doctor at the hospital, said, The parents of three newborns have named their children after Operation Sindoor. This reflects the deep patriotic sentiment among the people. The pain of the terrorist attack in Pahalgam still lingers. India hits three Pakistan airbases in retaliatory strikes Tensions High Along Border, Red Alert Issued Meanwhile, security concerns continue to escalate along the India-Pakistan border. A red alert has been issued in Sri Ganganagar, Churu, Hanumangarh, and parts of Bikaner (especially the Nal area). District collectors have advised residents to stay indoors due to fears of drone attacks. In Sri Ganganagar, electricity supply has been suspended as a precautionary measure. Public gatherings and events in Jaisalmer have been banned until further notice. Police have shut down major markets in Jaisalmer, Barmer, Sri Ganganagar, and Bikaner. Security forces became active around 9 a.m. in Nal, about 8 km from Bikaner city, closing shops along the National Highway and within the village market. Explosions were heard early Saturday morning in Jaisalmer, and debris suspected to be from drones or missiles was discovered. Similar incidents were reported in the Uttarai area of Barmer and in Balotra, where objects resembling missiles fell from the sky. The Airports Authority of India has announced the temporary closure of airports in Bikaner, Jaisalmer, Jodhpur, Kishangarh (Ajmer), and Uttarlai (Barmer) until May 14, extending the earlier deadline of May 10. In response to the escalating tension, the Rajasthan government has sanctioned an additional 19 crore for border districts. The funds will be used for emergency supplies, transportation, camp medicines, and essential equipment. The districts receiving this budget include Barmer, Bikaner, Jaisalmer, Sri Ganganagar, Jodhpur, Hanumangarh, and Phalodi. An all-party meeting has been called for Saturday to review the situation. At a cabinet meeting held on Friday, Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma instructed all ministers to visit the districts under their charge and ensure preparedness. Deputy CM Premchand Bairwa and Minister Jogaram Patel confirmed that all advisories from the central government will be strictly followed. Indias air defence success: A saga of decade-long toil
Centre issues NOTAM, closes at least 24 airports for civilian flights until May 15
Most of these airports are in north, west and central India and includes prominent airports such as Jammu, Srinagar, Leh, Chandigarh, Jodhpur, Jaisalmer and Rajkot
India Pakistan Tensions: Blackout, multiple aerial threats in Rajasthan's Jaisalmer, Bikaner, Jodhpur, Barmer, Sri Ganganagar
