Swachh Vayu Sarvekshan 2026: Delhi Ranks 21st Despite Pollution Challenges, Mumbai 28th
Delhi ranked 21st with 172 points and Mumbai 28th with 160.8 in Swachh Vayu Sarvekshan 2026. Lucknow topped the 130-city assessment, which measures pollution-control efforts rather than air quality alone.
Digital Desk | Lucknow, Sep 8 (IANS) A fresh political controversy erupted on Tuesday, a day after an Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) team examined a nearly 20-foot-deep well discovered during debris removal at the site where a mosque was demolished inside the Saharanpur Collectorate premises. The inspection was carried out on Monday to ascertain the age, nature and possible historical significance of the structure, which was discovered beneath the debris at the site on Sunday. ASI Assistant Archaeological Officer Manoj Kumar Yadav, who arrived in Saharanpur from Lucknow to examine the structure, inspected the site and stated that the materials visible at the location were part of the effort to establish its historical character. According to Yadav, the structure appears to resemble architectural features associated with the late-medieval period in the North and Central Ganga Valley. The well has been constructed using Lakhauri bricks and lime-surki, materials that were commonly used in structures from earlier periods. Based on the bricks, construction pattern and techniques observed at the site, officials have estimated that the structure could be around 200 to 250 years old. However, Yadav said that a definitive assessment would require further examination, as debris inside the structure has prevented complete verification and clear historical evidence is still being investigated. The discovery has also led to speculation over whether the structure could have any connection with the Shahjahan period or whether it may have formed part of a temple or another religious site in the past. However, Yadav cautioned against arriving at such historical conclusions without adequate archaeological evidence and said that the available material would need to be examined before establishing the exact history of the structure. Meanwhile, Deputy Chief Minister Brijesh Pathak, speaking to reporters, said: We will maintain law and order in Uttar Pradesh. Since the matter is before the court, it would not be appropriate to comment on it. The courts always keep options open. We are committed to maintaining law and order in Uttar Pradesh. Minister Narendra Kashyap said the Samajwadi Party should take note of the discovery of the well at the location where the mosque had stood and consider the circumstances surrounding the structure before questioning the demolition. Speaking to IANS, Kashyap said, Akhilesh Yadav should also look at the situation after the mosque was demolished. A well was found at the site where the mosque had been built. Wells have historically been one of the oldest ways of providing water to people. The well was filled in, and the mosque was built over it, and the mosque was constructed forcibly. Its demolition, carried out by following due legal procedure, should now not be questioned by Akhilesh Yadav. Kashyap further maintained that the demolition was carried out in accordance with the legal process and argued that the discovery of the well provided additional context to the dispute over the site. He said the matter should not be viewed separately from the legal proceedings that preceded the demolition. Minister O.P. Rajbhar also reacted to the discovery and said the developments at the site were revealing further details. It has now been confirmed that the mosque was demolished following the court's order. Now, when the well is being inspected, things are being revealed, he said.
Ram Temple CEO Mishra details tech behind Operation Sindoor
Lucknow: Air Marshal Jeetendra Mishra (Retd), the new CEO of Ram Temple Trust, on Monday, September 7, offered a detailed account of the technological and operational foundations behind Operation Sindoor during which he commanded the Indian Air Forces Western Air Command. Speaking at a programme hosted by news channel AajTak in New Delhi, the retired 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 .
UP CM Yogi to honour Anganwadi workers in Ayodhya today
Digital Desk | Ayodhya, Sep 8 (IANS) Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath will attend a state-level ceremony in Ayodhya on Tuesday to honour Anganwadi workers and helpers. Around 12,000 to 15,000 Anganwadi workers and helpers from across the Ayodhya division are expected to participate in the event. Around 2,000 participants each are likely to attend from Ambedkar Nagar, Amethi, Barabanki, Sultanpur, Basti and Gonda, according to officials. The programme at the Government Inter College ground will be telecast across Uttar Pradesh, allowing people in different districts to follow the state-level ceremony. After attending the event, the Chief Minister is scheduled to visit Hanumangarhi and the Shri Ram Temple in Ayodhya. District Magistrate Shashank Tripathi said the departmental minister and public representatives will also participate in the programme. Women associated with Self-Help Groups (SHGs) and engaged in ration distribution activities are also expected to take part in the event. Tripathi clarified that similar programmes will be organised simultaneously in every district of Uttar Pradesh, while the main state-level ceremony will be held in Ayodhya in the presence of Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath. Extensive arrangements have been made for the programme, with officials working to ensure that all necessary preparations are completed ahead of the Chief Minister's visit. Taking to X, the Chief Minister said that the programme would recognise the contributions of Anganwadi workers, helpers, meritorious children and outstanding supervisors, while appointment letters would also be distributed to newly appointed Anganwadi workers and helpers. In the beloved city of Maryada Purushottam Lord Shri Ram, Ayodhya Ji, anganwadi workers, helpers, meritorious children, and outstanding supervisors will be honoured, and appointment letters will be distributed to newly appointed anganwadi workers and helpers, CM Yogi said. This journey of prosperity through labour and empowerment through service will infuse new energy into the creation of a 'Viksit Uttar Pradesh', he added. The Chief Minister also highlighted another major event scheduled in the state, saying that the two-day 'UP Textile Conclave-2026' will begin in Lucknow on Tuesday. He said important initiatives would be launched as part of efforts to develop Uttar Pradesh into a global hub for the textile industry. The 'UP Tex Mitra' portal, along with schemes to promote the welfare of weavers, skill development, investment, and entrepreneurship, will connect the state's rich textile heritage to modern capabilities, CM Yogi added.
MP hooch tragedy: UP Police reject Lalitpur link to spurious liquor
Digital Desk | Lucknow, Sep 8 (IANS) The Uttar Pradesh Police has rejected claims of a Lalitpur connection to the spurious liquor tragedy in Madhya Pradesh's Sagar district, where methanol-laced hooch has claimed more than a dozen lives and left dozens of people hospitalised, saying there is currently no evidence to establish a link with illegal liquor production in Lalitpur. The clarification from the UP Police came after Sagar district police suggested that the toxic alcohol outbreak could have a Lalitpur connection. The tragedy in Sagar has resulted in multiple fatalities and dozens of hospitalisations, prompting the Madhya Pradesh government to suspend local excise and police personnel and order a high-level inquiry into the circumstances surrounding the sale and consumption of the spurious liquor. Lalitpur Police referred to a joint operation conducted on May 4, 2026, in which a gang allegedly involved in illicit liquor activities was arrested. The gang was reportedly led by Ravi Lakhera and Chandresh Lodhi and had links to districts in Madhya Pradesh. The accused already face gangster proceedings, according to Lalitpur Police. Lalitpur officials also pointed out that all 20 accused named in the FIR registered by Sagar Police are residents of Madhya Pradesh, with the exception of one person who has been residing locally for a long period. Lalitpur Additional Superintendent of Police Kalu Singh said, Accused Ravi Lakhera holds liquor shop licenses in MP, and several criminal cases related to liquor are registered against him in various police station areas of MP. He further said that in the case registered on September 6 at Banda police station under Crime No. 658/2026, all 20 named accused are residents of Madhya Pradesh. According to him, only one accused, Akash Rai, has been shown as a resident of Madawara in Lalitpur, but he has also been living in the Banda police station area for the past 10 years. Lalitpur officials maintained that no illegal spirit-based liquor is being manufactured in the district and urged Sagar Police to share any evidence that may have emerged during its investigation indicating a connection between Lalitpur and the Sagar tragedy. No illegal liquor of any kind is being produced anywhere in Lalitpur from spirit/chemicals, etc. If any facts connected to Lalitpur have emerged so far in the Sagar police investigation, they should certainly be shared with the Lalitpur police. The Lalitpur police and Excise team are jointly continuing action against the production and sale of illegal liquor, ASP Kalu Singh stated. The clarification came after Sagar district Superintendent of Police Anurag Sujaniya, speaking to the media on Sunday, said there was a strong possibility of a Lalitpur link to the spurious liquor that led to the deaths in villages of Banda tehsil. The statement was made just a few hours after reports of deaths began emerging from the affected villages. Sujaniya had cited the recent case involving the busting of a spurious liquor racket in Lalitpur. The Madhya Pradesh government had also officially circulated the same information to the media, referring to the suspected Lalitpur connection in the tragedy.
HC seeks UP response over licence issued in dead man
Lucknow: The Allahabad High Court has sought responses from the Centre and the Uttar Pradesh government on a PIL challenging the Aadhaar-based online system for issuing learning and driving licences after it was alleged that a learning licence was issued in the name of a deceased person. A Lucknow bench of Justice Rajan Roy and 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 .
Key accused in transporters killing arrested
3 Nigerians jailed for running romance, gift fraud racket in Rae Bareli
Waste segregation, mechanised sweeping, green initiatives, electric push helps city score 198/200
FIR after man posing as IAS officers relative dupes woman constable of 16L
Jajmau Ganga bridge repairs to disrupt UnnaoKanpur traffic for over a month
Two students killed as pickup truck hits motorcycle in Gonda
Record 14 UP athletes make it to Asian Games squad
UP to include museum visits for PM SHRI students
Basti molasses exports generate USD 5L in forex
New generation must be global, tech-savvy, and rooted in Indian culture: Yogi
Jal Shakti minister orders post-monsoon repair of pipeline-dug rural roads
Education must shape character, not just literacy: Yogi
19,496 evacuated as UP steps up flood relief
UP, Bihar set to expand bus services
Dead persons Aadhaar used for learning licence, HC seeks reply
After Akash Anands demotion, Maya signals bigger role for younger nephew Ishan Anand
CM to fete anganwadi workers today
Lucknow tops clean-air rankings; Delhi betters Mumbai and Bengaluru
Lucknow secured the top position in the Swachh Vayu Sarvekshan 2026 rankings. Madhya Pradesh cities like Indore, Jabalpur, and Bhopal also performed well. Odisha cities showed significant progress among smaller population categories. National capital Delhi improved its air quality ranking to 30th place. Overall, 108 out of 130 cities improved PM10 levels.
Lucknow, Rourkela, and Kalinga Nagar received awards for their clean air initiatives. These cities were honored for their performance under the National Clean Air Programme. The program has shown positive results in reducing PM10 levels across many cities. Best management practices for air quality improvement were also released. These awards highlight achievable goals for cleaner air nationwide.
IIM Lucknow to incubate rural women-led startups, enterprises in UP
Under this programme, nearly 150 women-led rural enterprises will receive structured incubation support from IIM Lucknow for a period of 18 months
A meeting between Ashutosh Ranka of CJP and Akhilesh Yadav of SP fueled political speculation. Ranka clarified CJP's focus remains non-electoral advocacy and thanked SP for their support. Discussions included the Uttar Pradesh government's closure of primary schools. Both SP and CJP now emphasize state-run educational institutions nationally.
Uttar Pradeshs Deputy CM Urges Officials to Resolve Public Grievances Promptly
Deputy CM Keshav Prasad Maurya emphasizes the need for timely resolution of public complaints during a public hearing in Lucknow. Uttar Pradeshs Deputy CM Urges Officials to Resolve Public Grievances Promptly
Posters referring to Muzaffarnagar riots surface in Lucknow, Saharanpur; trigger row
New Delhi, Sep 7 (IANS) Controversial posters referring to the 2013 Muzaffarnagar riots were put up in Uttar Pradesh's Saharanpur and Lucknow, triggering a political controversy at a time when tensions over the demolition of an old mosque inside the Saharanpur Collectorate complex are already high. The posters carried a photograph of Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav alongside a reference to the Muzaffarnagar riots. The message on the posters read, Na bhoole the, na bhoole hai, na bhoolenge (roughly translated to -- We have never forgotten, nor have we forgotten, nor will we forget) - December 7, Muzaffarnagar. Police acted swiftly after the posters were spotted and removed them from the locations. A search has now been launched to identify and trace the person or persons responsible for putting up the posters. Police are examining footage from CCTV cameras installed in the surrounding areas and are also looking at other available evidence as part of the investigation. Saharanpur Congress MP Imran Masood, speaking to IANS, condemned the act and called for strict action against those responsible, saying that attempts to disturb communal harmony should not be allowed to succeed. Strict action should be taken against those who have put up these posters. Some people want to spoil the atmosphere, but we will not let the atmosphere deteriorate at any cost. We want to preserve the character of our city. This is a city of love, not a city of hatred, Masood said. The appearance of the posters has added fuel to the Saharanpur Collectorate mosque demolition row. The Congress MP said that the demolition issue would now be pursued through legal channels, with the dispute expected to be taken before the court. This is the administration's job, and they are doing it. Now that the mosque has been demolished, the fight will have to be taken to court. All these disputes are about papers and documents. We have those documents with us, so we will fight it in court and go to court. There is no point in talking to the officials, Masood said. Opposition parties have accused the BJP-led state government of promoting communal politics and carrying out targeted action against a particular community ahead of the 2027 Assembly elections. The demolition followed a legal dispute over the status of the structure and the land on which it stood. A district court had dismissed an appeal against an earlier order holding that the structure had been built on government land and was unauthorised. The September 2 order itself did not specifically mention demolition. Instead, it dismissed the appeal and upheld an earlier order passed by a magistrate on July 16. The July 16 order had directed the eviction of the mosque under the Uttar Pradesh Public Premises (Eviction of Unauthorised Occupants) Act, 1972, after concluding that the structure occupied 315 square metres of government land.
Watch: Birthday cake lands 6 UP cops in soup after video emerges
ED raids Trinamool Rajya Sabha member's newspaper office, other premises
Kolkata, Sep 7 (IANS) An Enforcement Directorate (ED) team on Monday began major search operations at the Kolkata office of the Urdu newspaper 'Akhbar-e-Mashriq', which is owned by the Trinamool Congress Rajya Sabha member, Nadimul Haque. Sources aware of the development said that besides the main office of 'Akhbar-e-Mashriq' at Park Circus in central Kolkata, simultaneous raids and search operations are being conducted at six other locations in Delhi, Ranchi, and Kolkata that are linked to Haque. The total of the seven locations where the ED raids are being conducted since Monday morning also included the residence of the Trinamool MP at Darga Road in south Kolkata. ED officials have also reportedly reached the residence of Haques son-in-law. Besides Kolkata, 'Akhbar-e-Mashriq' has editions from Delhi, Ranchi, Asansol, Siliguri, Bhopal, Lucknow, and Srinagar. Although ED officials have remained tight-lipped over the details behind the raid, as per preliminary information available, it is in relation to alleged illegal transactions carried out through the bank accounts of the media entity. The financial probe agency has come to investigate allegations of financial transactions in the newspaper's bank account, for which no correspondence has been found. It is learnt that the investigating officials have detected serious irregularities in the accounts of the media entity, hinting at money laundering. The ED, sources said, had decided to interrogate Haque, his family members and the other directors of the media entity in this connection. On early Monday, the ED officials, accompanied by a contingent of Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) personnel, arrived at 'Akhbar-e-Mashriq's Park Circus office. While the ED officials, along with some CAPF personnel, entered the office premises, the other CAPF personnel surrounded the office. The office's main entrance was locked to prevent anyone from getting in or coming out of the office. The raids and search operation were ongoing, and as indicated by sources, this operation might be continued for quite some time. Haque had been a Trinamool Congress Rajya Sabha member since April 2012.
Why Lucknow's Waterlogging Problem Is Becoming A Daily-Life Crisis
Lucknow's monsoon waterlogging is no longer just a problem of flooded roads and slow-moving traffic. In several parts of the city, stagnant water is becoming a disruption that stretches from one day into the next - affecting how residents leave home,
4 killed, over two dozen injured as bus overturns after hitting divider in UP's Baghpat
Rinku's Meerut Mavericks Beat Bhuvneshwer's Lucknow Falcons To Lift UPT20 Trophy
UP T20 League: Rinku Singhs Meerut Mavericks delivered a flawless performance to defeat Bhuvneshwar Kumars Lucknow Falcons by a massive 94 runs in the Grand Finale of the UP T20 League 2026. Appearing in their fourth consecutive final across all four seasons of the league, the Mavericks completely outclassed the first-time finalists to be crowned the undisputed champions of Season 4. Mavericks skipper Rinku won the toss and confidently opted to bat first. The decision paid immediate dividends as openers Swastik Chikara and Divyansh Joshi, who was specially brought into the playing XI for the final, stitched together a rapid 53-run opening stand. Following Chikara's dismissal, the innings transformed into the Divyansh Joshi show. The aggressive batter launched an astonishing counter-attack, systematically taking apart the Lucknow bowling lineup, including veteran pacer Bhuvneshwar Kumar. Joshi went on to smash one of the greatest knocks in the league's history, bringing up a breathtaking 105 off just 40 deliveries, laced with 12 boundaries and seven massive sixes. His spectacular century propelled the Mavericks to a daunting total of 203/7 in their allotted 20 overs, setting a towering benchmark for the Falcons. Faced with the pressure of a massive 204-run target in their maiden final, the Falcons were never allowed to settle into the game. The Mavericks bowling attack struck with ruthless consistency, triggering regular wickets and denying Lucknow any meaningful partnerships. Ajeet Verma provided the only significant resistance for the Falcons, scoring a fighting 39 off 24 balls before a sharp run-out ended his brief spark. Vishal Chaudhary dismantled the middle and lower order, leading the bowling charts with an exceptional spell of 4-24. Meanwhile, Mavericks premier spinner Zeeshan Ansari claimed two crucial wickets to cap off a phenomenal individual season. His efforts in the final took his tournament tally to a staggering 25 wickets, officially earning him the coveted Purple Cap. Ajeet Verma provided the only significant resistance for the Falcons, scoring a fighting 39 off 24 balls before a sharp run-out ended his brief spark. Vishal Chaudhary dismantled the middle and lower order, leading the bowling charts with an exceptional spell of 4-24. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories For his breathtaking century on the grandest stage, Joshi was adjudged the Player of the Match. Alongside Zeeshan Ansari's Purple Cap triumph, Kashi Rudras skipper Karan Sharma was awarded the Orange Cap for finishing the season as the highest run-scorer with 361 runs. Article Source: IANS
Jammu Kashmir Govt Grants Ex-Post Facto Sanction to ABDM Mission Director for Lucknow Conference
SRINAGAR: The Jammu and Kashmir Government has accorded ex-post facto sanction to the deputation of IAS officer Ananth Dwivedi, Mission Director, Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission (ABDM), JK, for attending the Uttar Pradesh: AI and Health Innovation Conference in Lucknow. The sanction was issued through Government Order No. 667-JK(HME) of 2026, by the Health and Medical []
BSP to pursue Gen-Z, Gen-Alpha demands through officials, not protests: Mayawati
Raina backs Bhuvi for 2027 WC, wants Rinku to lead KKR
Yogi meets flood-hit families in Chitrakoot, hands over relief aid
Five villagers injured in series of late-night wildlife attacks in Bahraich
Narcotics consignment busted in Chandauli, heroin worth 2.1cr seized
Two sisters drown in Saryu while feeding fish in Gonda
Woman, newborn die after treatment at unlicensed facility
UPTEN to reach med aid to accident victims in 60 mins
3K Sarvodayastudents to getskill training
Basti SHO dies by suicide after alleged honey trap; 3 arrested
Awadhi body, Kannada soul: How a Gonda docs speech went viral
Bahraich police recover 107 lost phones worth 26 lakh, return them to owners
Leopard trapped after entering baited cage in Bahraich; villagers breathe sigh of relief
Stop chasing marks, build leaders of knowledge: Brajesh Pathak
Educators felicitated at TOI Teachers Day event
Lucknow Cantt to get citys first robotic multi-level parking at Sadar Bazaar
Head cop held for bludgeoning wife to death
SP MP Iqra Hassan claims house arrest on Saharanpur visit bid
Lucknow: Samajwadi Party MP Iqra Hasan has said that she was placed under house arrest at her Kairana residence before she could travel to Saharanpur to register her protest and speak to officials, raising her concern over the demolition of a mosque there. The Kairana MP said that a police force was deployed outside her 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 .
No takers for Urdu in 'city of adab', Lucknow University OKs 'walk-in enrolment'
BJP's UP In-Charge Vinod Tawde meets CM Yogi; discusses strategy ahead of 2027 elections
Lucknow, Sep 6 (IANS) Kicking off its poll preparedness for the 2027 Uttar Pradesh Assembly elections, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has intensified efforts to chalk out its electoral roadmap by building grassroots connect while ensuring seamless between government and the organisation. BJP's UP In-Charge Vinod Tawde met Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath in Lucknow on Sunday and held a detailed discussion on the state's electoral strategy for the upcoming Assembly polls and also party's organisational strength. This is Tawde's first visit to Uttar Pradesh, after taking charge as the party's state In-charge of Uttar Pradesh, one of the most prominent states heading to polls next year. Tawde has been given the responsibility to prove party's mettle in the high-stakes electoral battle, early next year and win the Hindi heartland state for third consecutive term. Taking to X following the meeting, Tawde said that 'UP ki raftaar rahegi barkaraar; teesri baar banegi NDA sarkaar', loosely translated to: UP's momentum will remain sustained, NDA government to be formed for the third time. During the visit to Uttar Pradesh, in Lucknow, a detailed and meaningful discussion took place on various topics related to the organisation, government, and elections with the Honourable Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh Yogi Adityanath ji, BJP State President Pankaj Chaudhary ji, and Deputy Chief Ministers Keshav Prasad Maurya ji and Brajesh Pathak Ji. Tawde further said, Every BJP worker is committed to fulfilling the resolve of Viksit Bharat-Viksit Uttar Pradesh by forming the NDA government again in 2027. The discussions focussed on strengthening the organisation at different levels, reviewing the party's electoral preparedness and formulating a broader roadmap for party workers ahead of the upcoming political challenges in the state. During his first visit in the new role, Tawde will participate in a crucial review meeting to assess the political, electoral and organisational dynamics in Uttar Pradesh and deliberate on the road ahead for the party in view of the 2027 Assembly elections. Earlier on Saturday, Senior BJP leaders, including BJP UP President Pankaj Chaudhary, State General Secretary (Organisation) Dharmpal Singh, State General Secretary Sanjay Rai, and State Office In-charge Govind Narayan Shukla, and workers welcomed Tawde at the airport upon his arrival in Lucknow. Upon arriving in the city, Tawde hit out at Samajwadi Party (SP) chief Akhilesh Yadav, remarking that the party's 'PDA' slogan stands for 'Paraya Dhan Apna' (appropriating others' wealth as one's own). Speaking to reporters, Vinod Tawde attacked Akhilesh Yadav, saying: Slogans of SP-PDA will be thwarted by us. PDA and SP mean 'Paraya Dhan Apna'. NDA will never let this happen. Under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the BJP has become the world's largest political party, while Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath is accelerating the pace of development in Uttar Pradesh. Under the guidance of the party's UP chief Pankaj Chaudhary, NDA workers in the state would contest the upcoming Assembly elections with full vigour and secure victory, he asserted, while adding that the BJP would once again enter the electoral fray with a resolve to dedicate the next five years to the people of the state.
Sudhir Mishra, Manoj Bajpayee's film on Gandhi begins shooting
The shooting for the much-anticipated Hindi film, tentatively titled Gandhi and My Mother, has begun in Lucknow.
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Dinesh Sharma thanks Prez Murmu, PM Modi after appointment as Andaman and Nicobar Islands L-G
New Delhi, Sep 6 (IANS) BJP Rajya Sabha member Dinesh Sharma on Sunday expressed gratitude for his appointment as Lieutenant Governor of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands and said he would fulfil his duty with complete devotion, honesty, and dedication. President Droupadi Murmu on Saturday appointed Dinesh Sharma as the Lieutenant Governor of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. The appointment will take effect from the date he assumes charge of the office, according to a press communique issued by Rashtrapati Bhavan. In a post on X, Sharma said, My heartfelt gratitude to Hon'ble President, Hon'ble Prime Minister, Hon'ble Home Minister, and the party's central leadership. For this important responsibility, I express my deepest gratitude from the heart to all esteemed elders, well-wishers, friends, and fellow citizens who have continuously inspired me with their good wishes and blessings. This is not merely a position for me, but a profound responsibility toward the Constitution, the nation, and public service. I pledge to fulfil this duty with complete devotion, honesty, and dedication. May your affection, trust, and blessings always remain with me in this manner, he added. Sharma, a senior Bharatiya Janata Party leader and currently a Member of Parliament in the Rajya Sabha from Uttar Pradesh, brings extensive administrative and academic experience to the role. Born on January 12, 1964, in Lucknow, he served as the Deputy Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh from 2017 to 2022 in the Yogi Adityanath government, handling portfolios related to higher education, technical education, science and technology, and information technology. Before that, he was elected Mayor of Lucknow twice -- first in 2006 and again in 2012 -- winning the second term by a record margin. A professor of commerce at the University of Lucknow since the early 1990s, Sharma has guided numerous research scholars and remains associated with academic work. He began his public life through student organisations and rose through the ranks of the BJP's youth wing before holding key organisational positions in the party. The Andaman and Nicobar Islands, a strategically important Union Territory in the Bay of Bengal, is administered by a Lieutenant Governor who serves as both the constitutional head and the head of the administration. The post carries significant responsibility for governance, development, and coordination with the central government, particularly in areas of security, tourism, infrastructure and environmental conservation. Admiral (Retd) Devendra Kumar Joshi has been serving as the Lieutenant Governor since October 2017. The fresh appointment marks a change in the leadership of the island territory. Dr Sharma is expected to take charge shortly.
CM Yogi to visit Chitrakoot, distribute relief material to 800 flood-affected families
Lucknow, Sep 6 (IANS) Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath will visit Chitrakoot district on Sunday to take stock of the situation in flood-affected areas and review relief and rehabilitation measures undertaken by the administration. During his visit, the Chief Minister will distribute relief material among 800 families affected by the recent floods. He will also provide land allocation certificates to families rendered homeless by the disaster, enabling them to secure land for residential use. In addition, eligible flood-affected families will receive financial assistance from the State Disaster Response Fund (SDRF) to help them recover from flood losses. The Chief Minister is expected to review the ground situation and assess the effectiveness of relief operations being carried out in the district. As part of his programme, CM Yogi will conduct an aerial survey of the flood-hit areas of Chitrakoot. The survey will enable him to assess the extent of flooding, damage to infrastructure and the condition of affected settlements. He will subsequently visit a night shelter, where he will interact directly with flood victims and listen to their concerns and difficulties. The Chief Minister is expected to seek information from affected residents regarding their immediate requirements and the assistance being provided by government agencies. Officials will also brief him on relief, rescue and rehabilitation efforts in the district. Several public representatives and dignitaries are scheduled to be present during the Chief Ministers visit. They include Minister Nand Gopal Gupta Nandi, District Panchayat Administrator Ashok Jatav, Chitrakoot Dham Karwi Municipal Council Chairman Narendra Gupta and Manikpur MLA Avinash Chandra Dwivedi, along with other officials and dignitaries. The visit is expected to provide an opportunity for the state government to directly review flood relief measures and address the concerns of affected families. The Chief Minister is also expected to review the ongoing operations and ensure that affected families receive timely assistance.
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Census 2027: UP headcount shifted to Dec-Jan, decks for assembly polls cleared
Tigress, three cubs bring traffic to a standstill on Katarniaghat road
Age no bar, Rachna hits bullseye with a golden return at 65
Falcons eye maiden UPT20 title against Mavericks
Delhi-based gang involved in 4 chain-snatching cases busted; 2 held
1.677 kg hydroponic weed worth Rs 1.67 crore seized at Lucknow airport
Bulldozer politics weakening UPs social harmony: Cong
Girl consumes rat poison instead of pain killer, dies
Minor on way to coaching centre hit by truck, dies
FIR lodged in Deoria over 10L cryptocurrency fraud
Woman among three held in 93 lakh cryptocurrency fraud
HC rejects plea for FIR against Rambhadracharya
Maulana Abbas Advocates for Unity Amid Mosque Demolition Controversy
Maulana Abbas condemns mosque demolition in Saharanpur and emphasizes Hindu-Muslim brotherhood during a press conference in Lucknow. Maulana Abbas Advocates for Unity Amid Mosque Demolition Controversy
UP Census advanced to Dec-Jan, clearing decks ahead of 2027 assembly polls
82% work done on Bhandai-Kitham bypass, Agra rail project on track for Dec 2026 completion
Who is Shardendu Tiwari, who gave up a Rs 46 lakh Amazon package to join Indian Army?
A Rs 46 lakh annual package at Amazon and an opportunity with Airbus offered Shardendu Tiwari a promising corporate career. Instead, the 27-year-old Lucknow resident chose to pursue his childhood inclination towards the armed forces. After eight Army selection attempts, the second-generation soldier is now set to be commissioned at OTA Gaya, where he also earned the Senior Under Officer appointment.
UP T20: Bhuvneshwar's Lucknow Falcons Set To Take On Rinku-led Meerut Mavericks In Final
Bharat Ratna Shri Atal Bihari: The Lucknow Falcons are set to take on Meerut Mavericks in the grand finale of the UP T20 League, to be played at the Bharat Ratna Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee Ekana Cricket Stadium on Sunday. The title clash pits prominent Indian internationals against each other, as Bhuvneshwar Kumar leads the Lucknow Falcons against Rinku Singhs Meerut Mavericks. The Meerut Mavericks have achieved the remarkable feat of qualifying for the final in all four seasons and are seeking their second title, while the Lucknow Falcons have entered their maiden final, and are aiming to lift the trophy for the first time in front of their home crowd. The Lucknow Falcons enter the final on a seven-match unbeaten streak, marking an impressive turnaround after a difficult start to the tournament where they lost three of their opening four matches. The Falcons rebounded by winning five of their subsequent six league games (with one game washed out) to finish second in the standings with 13 points. They booked their place directly in the final with a convincing win over Meerut in Qualifier 1, anchored by a decisive spell of 4-10 from captain Bhuvneshwar. The Falcons campaign has been bolstered by consistent batting performances from Ajeet Verma and Mohammad Saif, who have compiled 263 and 233 runs, respectively. Leg-spin bowling all-rounder Vipraj Nigam has delivered in crucial moments down the order, maintaining a strike rate close to 160 alongside taking 11 wickets. The bowling unit remains their primary strength, led economically by Bhuvneshwar (13 wickets at an economy rate under 6) and fellow pacer Abhinandan Singh, who sits second in the Purple Cap standings with 21 wickets. Meanwhile, the Mavericks established their authority early in the season by registering seven consecutive victories, eventually securing top spot on the points table with 15 points. Despite enduring a late-season dip, comprising a washout, two consecutive league defeats, and a loss in Qualifier 1, the Mavericks demonstrated their pedigree by defeating the Noida Kings by six wickets in Qualifier 2 to maintain their unblemished record of reaching every UP T20 League final. Meeruts batting lineup features the tournament's most explosive performers. Opener Swastik Chikara has accumulated 308 runs at a strike rate of 166.49, while captain Rinku has provided reliable finishing power with 240 runs at a tournament-high strike rate of 171. Despite enduring a late-season dip, comprising a washout, two consecutive league defeats, and a loss in Qualifier 1, the Mavericks demonstrated their pedigree by defeating the Noida Kings by six wickets in Qualifier 2 to maintain their unblemished record of reaching every UP T20 League final. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories With both franchises fielding balanced squads capable of lifting the trophy, Sunday's finale promises a closely contested finish to determine the champion of the UP T20 League 2026. Article Source: IANS
Raina Backs Pant To Return To White-ball Setup, Urges Him To Play With Freedom
ODI World Cup: Former India batter Suresh Raina believes wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant possesses the required talent to replicate his stellar Test cricket form in white-ball formats, provided he plays without hesitation and navigates through mental blockages. Despite being a match-winner for India in Tests, Pant has been unable to establish himself in the white-ball setup. Though hes played 31 ODIs and 76 T20Is, Pant last played both white-ball formats for India in 2024. He was an unused member of the 2025 Mens Champions Trophy-winning Indian team, before being left out of the ODI team from the series against Afghanistan in June. He is my favourite player. I think what Rishabh has done is that hes playing well and scoring tremendously in the Test matches. No, no, he is working hard. Dhruv Jurel is doing well; Sanju Samson is there. But Rishabh has that x-factor. What I feel and think is that hes slowly maturing. You are talking about the white ball side of things, but its even true in the case of IPL, Raina said to Aakash Chopra on his YouTube channel. Despite Pants established pedigree in the longest format of the game, his consistency in white-ball international cricket has drawn scrutiny. I think he has done really well, as everyone knows, as far as Test matches are concerned. But why is the same not happening in T20Is or ODIs? Is he looking for something in his mind? What is it? I think he needs to figure out how to pace an innings there. In the Test matches, he used to play without any hesitation. Now if he has to hit a six there, he will hit on the very first ball, noted Raina. The former left-handed batter, who was a member of the teams that won the 2011 ODI World Cup and 2013 Champions Trophy, suggested that being free in his batting style can help Pant, who didnt have memorable IPL 2025 and 2026 campaigns with Lucknow Super Giants before moving back to Delhi Capitals right after this years tournament. Is he looking for something in his mind? What is it? I think he needs to figure out how to pace an innings there. In the Test matches, he used to play without any hesitation. Now if he has to hit a six there, he will hit on the very first ball, noted Raina. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories He needs to be free in his style. He can achieve a lot. In the future, I think, God willing, he will do well because he has gone through so much - his setback and all. He will do it one day his time will come, he concluded. Article Source: IANS
