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PM Modi to launch Rs 3350 crore development package for Ladakh

New Delhi, Oct 14:Prime Minister NarendraModi will inaugurate and dedicate to the nation five major development projects worth around Rs 3350 crore in Ladakh on Thursday at around 12:30 pm via video conferencing. He will also address the gathering on the occasion. The five projects will strengthen connectivity, improve energy infrastructure, conserve cultural heritage and enhance water security in the region. Prime Minister will inaugurate the New Passenger Terminal Building at KushokBakulaRimpochee Airport, Leh, built at a cost of Rs 640 crore. Spread over 23,800 square metres, the modern terminal is designed to handle 35 lakh passengers annually. Incorporating geothermal energy to enhance energy efficiency and reduce its carbon footprint, the facility reflects the importance of sustainable infrastructure in Ladakhs ecologically sensitive environment. Blending modern passenger amenities with elements of Ladakhs rich cultural heritage, the terminal will improve passenger convenience and strengthen air connectivity with the rest of the country. Prime Minister will dedicate to the nation the 298-km-long Nimmu-Padum-Darcha Road, constructed by the Border Roads Organisation (BRO). Connecting Nimmu in Leh with Darcha in Himachal Pradesh through the remote Zanskar Valley, the road provides an alternative connectivity corridor to Ladakh, supplementing the Srinagar-Leh and Manali-Leh highways. Traversing challenging Himalayan terrain, including the high-altitude Shinkun La Pass, the road marks a significant engineering achievement. Its strategic importance lies in enhancing operational mobility and strengthening logistical support for the armed forces. It will also benefit residents of Zanskar by improving access to healthcare, education, markets and essential services. As part of efforts to strengthen energy security and harness Ladakhs renewable energy potential, Prime Minister will inaugurate the 9 MW Hanu Small Hydroelectric Project and the 66 kV Double-Circuit Dah-Hanu-Khaltsi Transmission Line. The projects will strengthen power evacuation infrastructure and improve the reliability of Ladakhs electricity network. They mark an important step towards harnessing the regions hydropower resources and strengthening its energy infrastructure. Recognising the importance of preserving Ladakhs ancient archaeological heritage, Prime Minister will inaugurate Indias first Petroglyph Conservation Park at SindhuGhat, Leh. Ladakh is home to hundreds of prehistoric rock art sites featuring carvings of wildlife, human figures and symbolic representations that offer valuable insights into thousands of years of human history. These petroglyphs are an irreplaceable record of the regions cultural and civilisational past. The conservation park will provide a dedicated space for protecting these vulnerable archaeological remains, raising public awareness and encouraging responsible heritage tourism. Prime Minister will also inaugurate 40 water bodies developed across 40 villages under Project Him Sarovar, an initiative aimed at addressing Ladakhs unique geographical and climatic challenges through water conservation, in line with the objectives of Mission AmritSarovar. Agriculture in Ladakh faces a seasonal imbalance between water availability and demand. Farmers often experience water scarcity during the crucial sowing season, even as snowmelt and glacial runoff provide substantial water resources during other periods. Project Him Sarovar seeks to address this challenge by conserving water when it is available and ensuring its availability when required, thereby supporting irrigation, sustaining agricultural livelihoods and strengthening long-term water security in the region.

Greater Kashmir 15 Oct 2026 6:21 am

PM Modi to unveil Leh airport terminal, key connectivity projects in Ladakh on Oct 15

New Delhi [India], October 14 : Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday said he would inaugurate and dedicate development projects worth around Rs 3,350 crore in Ladakh via video conferencing on October 15. In a post on X, the Prime Minister said the projects include the new Passenger Terminal Building at Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport in Leh and the Nimmu-Padum-Darcha Road, which will strengthen connectivity and strategic mobility. Tomorrow, 15th October, I will inaugurate and dedicate to the nation development projects worth around 3,350 crore in Ladakh via video conferencing. These include: New Passenger Terminal Building at Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport, Leh. The Nimmu-Padum-Darcha Road, strengthening connectivity and strategic mobility, Modi wrote on X. The projects also include the 9 MW Hanu Hydroelectric Project and power transmission infrastructure, Indias first Petroglyph Conservation Park in Leh, and 40 water bodies across 40 villages under Project Amrit Him Sarovar. 9 MW Hanu Hydroelectric Project and power transmission infrastructure. India's first Petroglyph Conservation Park in Leh. 40 water bodies across 40 villages under Project Amrit Him Sarovar, he further wrote. Modi said the projects would strengthen connectivity, boost development, preserve Ladakhs rich heritage and improve the quality of life of its people. These projects will strengthen connectivity, boost development, preserve the rich heritage and improve the quality of life of the people, he said. Prime Minister Narendra Modi will inaugurate and dedicate to the nation five major development projects worth around 3,350 crore in Ladakh on Thursday at around 12:30 PM via video conferencing. He will also address the gathering on the occasion. The five projects will strengthen connectivity, improve energy infrastructure, conserve cultural heritage and enhance water security in the region. Prime Minister will inaugurate the New Passenger Terminal Building at Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport, Leh, built at a cost of 640 crore. Spread over 23,800 square metres, the modern terminal is designed to handle 35 lakh passengers annually. Incorporating geothermal energy to enhance energy efficiency and reduce its carbon footprint, the facility reflects the importance of sustainable infrastructure in Ladakhs ecologically sensitive environment. Blending modern passenger amenities with elements of Ladakhs rich cultural heritage, the terminal will improve passenger convenience and strengthen air connectivity with the rest of the country. Prime Minister will dedicate to the nation the 298-km-long Nimmu-Padum-Darcha Road, constructed by the Border Roads Organisation (BRO). Connecting Nimmu in Leh with Darcha in Himachal Pradesh through the remote Zanskar Valley, the road provides an alternative connectivity corridor to Ladakh, supplementing the SrinagarLeh and ManaliLeh highways. Traversing challenging Himalayan terrain, including the high-altitude Shinkun La Pass, the road marks a significant engineering achievement. Its strategic importance lies in enhancing operational mobility and strengthening logistical support for the Armed Forces. It will also benefit residents of Zanskar by improving access to healthcare, education, markets and essential services. As part of efforts to strengthen energy security and harness Ladakhs renewable energy potential, Prime Minister will inaugurate the 9 MW Hanu Small Hydroelectric Project and the 66 kV Double-Circuit Dah-Hanu-Khaltsi Transmission Line. The projects will strengthen power evacuation infrastructure and improve the reliability of Ladakhs electricity network. They mark an important step towards harnessing the regions hydropower resources and strengthening its energy infrastructure. Recognising the importance of preserving Ladakhs ancient archaeological heritage, Prime Minister will inaugurate Indias first Petroglyph Conservation Park at Sindhu Ghat, Leh. Ladakh is home to hundreds of prehistoric rock art sites featuring carvings of wildlife, human figures and symbolic representations that offer valuable insights into thousands of years of human history. These petroglyphs are an irreplaceable record of the regions cultural and civilisational past. The conservation park will provide a dedicated space for protecting these vulnerable archaeological remains, raising public awareness and encouraging responsible heritage tourism. Prime Minister will also inaugurate 40 water bodies developed across 40 villages under Project Him Sarovar, an initiative aimed at addressing Ladakhs unique geographical and climatic challenges through water conservation, in line with the objectives of Mission Amrit Sarovar. Agriculture in Ladakh faces a seasonal imbalance between water availability and demand. Farmers often experience water scarcity during the crucial sowing season, even as snowmelt and glacial runoff provide substantial water resources during other periods. Project Him Sarovar seeks to address this challenge by conserving water when it is available and ensuring its availability when required, thereby supporting irrigation, sustaining agricultural livelihoods and strengthening long-term water security in the region. (ANI)

RisingKashmir 14 Oct 2026 9:41 pm

Kashmir is far more beautiful than Switzerland: Raza Murad Why run to Switzerland? Kashmir is far more beautiful: Raza Murad

Veteran Bollywood actor Raza Murad, who has worked in over 500 films, first came to Kashmir in 1976 and has been returning ever since for shoots, for his honeymoon on a houseboat, and later with his daughter. In a candid conversation with Rising Kashmirs Idrees Bukhtiyar, he recalled the golden era of film shootings in Gulmarg, Yusmarg and Srinagar. He credited Shammi Kapoor's Junglee for putting Kashmir on Bollywood's map, questioned why people rush to Switzerland when Kashmir is far more beautiful, admitted his love for Goshtaba, and said that while much has changed over the decades, Kashmir remains an emotion timeless, beautiful, and always welcoming. Q: Do you remember your first trip to Kashmir? Raza Murad: Yes, very clearly. I first came to Kashmir in 1976. We were shooting in Ludhiana and one of my close friends, actor Satish Kaul, who is originally from Kashmir, suggested we visit. After the shoot, we took a flight from Amritsar to Srinagar and stayed at Nedous Hotel. I was here for four days, and from then on, I kept coming back. Q: How was it shooting in Kashmir those days? Raza Murad: In 1977, Kishore Kumar was making a film called Door Wadiyon Mein Kahin. The shooting was held in Gulmarg, and we stayed at the Highland Park Hotel. Another schedule was shot in Yusmarg. Later, I worked in Khuddar with Amitabh Bachchan. I remember we had to shoot a court scene, and for that, a courtroom set was created inside Nedous Hotel in Srinagar. Many actors were visiting Kashmir at that time - it was a golden era for film shoots in the valley. Q: What personal memories do you have of Kashmir? Raza Murad: Absolutely. The year after, I got married, and I came here again for my honeymoon. We stayed in a houseboat - it was a magical experience. Later, I returned with my daughter because she always wanted to see Kashmir. Q: You often compare Kashmir to Switzerland. Why? Raza Murad: I honestly dont understand why people run to Switzerland. Our Kashmir is far more beautiful than Switzerland -whether its the lakes, mountains, or snow. In the 1990s, unrest had stopped film producers from coming here, and we had to recreate Srinagar in places like Kullu and Manali. But now, the situation has improved, and filmmakers once again love to shoot in Kashmir. Q: J&K government has been promoting film tourism. Do you think that's needed? Raza Murad: I remember when Mehbooba Mufti, the former chief minister, came to Mumbai to announce the film policy. I was present at that meeting. Kashmir doesnt need recommendations -filmmakers themselves want to shoot here. They are drawn by the sheer beauty: the lakes, the gardens, the snow-covered mountains. Q: In your view, who brought Kashmir into Bollywoods limelight? Raza Murad: If anyone deserves credit, it is Shammi Kapoor. His film Junglee, which was among the first colour films shot here, marked the beginning of Kashmirs journey in Bollywood. He later shot Kashmir Ki Kali, Janwar, and many more films here. I personally feel there should be a colony or a road named after him in Srinagar because he played such a pivotal role in promoting Kashmir through cinema. Q: How do you find Kashmir today compared to your earlier visits? Raza Murad: Kashmir has changed a lot. Many new stores and facilities have opened. When I came with my daughter in 1995, there were no mobile phones here. We had to go to a PCO to make a call. Now, things are very different. Q: Any favourite Kashmiri delicacies? Raza Murad: Yes, I love to eat Goshtaba whenever I am here - that is my absolute favourite. Q: And the places youve enjoyed the most in the valley? Raza Murad: Ive been to Gulmarg, Sonamarg, Dal Lake, the Mughal Gardens, Shankaracharya Temple, and, of course, the Lalit Hotel. Each place has its own charm. But for me, Kashmir as a whole is an emotion - timeless, beautiful, and always welcoming.

RisingKashmir 13 Oct 2026 7:51 am

A piece of my heart: Govinda's co-actress wants to return to Manali, shares a glimpse of her mountain escape

Actress Mandakini has shared a glimpse of her Manali getaway, expressing her longing to return to the hill station. The Ram Teri Ganga Maili star posted a video of herself enjoying the lush greenery, recalling how certain places leave lasting memories. Fans praised her beauty and connection with nature, with some describing her as the queen of the mountains. Mandakini continues to share personal moments and career milestones on Instagram.

The Economic Times 12 Oct 2026 3:21 pm

Modi Reaches Chennai to Launch Projects Worth Rs 13,000 Crore

Modi will lay the foundation stone for a Rs. 1,620-crore group II/III lube oil base stocks project at Chennai Petroleum Corporation Limiteds Manali refinery

Deccan Chronicle 11 Oct 2026 12:04 pm

First Paragliding Accuracy Pre-World Cup begins in Manali

The Times of India 9 Oct 2026 11:10 pm

President Murmu visits Atal Tunnel, calls it an engineering marvel

Digital Desk | Manali, Oct 7 (IANS) President Droupadi Murmu on Wednesday travelled through the Atal Tunnel in Himachal Pradesh's Rohtang region and described it as an engineering marvel, reflecting India's technological prowess, determination and commitment to ensuring seamless connectivity in some of the most challenging terrains. The strategically significant Atal Tunnel, which connects Manali and the Lahaul-Spiti Valley throughout the year, was inaugurated in 2020 by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The President wrote on X that the Atal Tunnel is an engineering marvel of global standards, constructed with exemplary dedication by the Border Roads Organisation. This iconic infrastructure stands as a testament to India's technological prowess, determination and commitment to ensuring seamless connectivity in the most challenging terrains, she said. Describing the visit as a proud moment for Himachal Pradesh, Governor Shiv Pratap Shukla said he was honoured to join the President during her visit to the iconic Atal Tunnel. He said the tunnel is a world-class feat of engineering that has brought Lahaul-Spiti closer to the rest of the nation. Situated at over 10,000 feet, the tunnel stands as a testament to India's vision, technical capability and commitment to connecting remote communities. Calling it an inspiring day, the Governor said the visit showcased the nation's strength in modern infrastructure and strategic development. President Murmu, who is staying in the picturesque tourist resort of Manali, is scheduled to conclude her Himachal Pradesh visit on October 8 and return to New Delhi. The Atal Tunnel is the longest highway tunnel in the world. The 9.02-km-long tunnel connects Manali to the Lahaul-Spiti Valley throughout the year. Earlier, the valley remained cut off for about six months every year due to heavy snowfall. The tunnel has been built with ultra-modern specifications in the Pir Panjal range of the Himalayas at an altitude of 3,000 metres (10,000 feet) above mean sea level. It reduces the road distance between Manali and Leh by 46 km and travel time by about four to five hours. The South Portal of the Atal Tunnel is located 25 km from Manali at an altitude of 3,060 metres. At the same time, the North Portal is situated near Teling village in Sissu in the Lahaul Valley at an altitude of 3,071 metres. It is a horseshoe-shaped, single-tube, double-lane tunnel with an eight-metre-wide roadway and an overhead clearance of 5.525 metres. The tunnel has been designed for a traffic density of 3,000 cars and 1,500 trucks per day, with a maximum speed limit of 80 km per hour.

bhaskarlive 7 Oct 2026 10:11 pm

President Murmu honours first batch doctors of AIIMS Bilaspur (Lead)

Digital Desk | Bilaspur/Manali, Oct 6 (IANS) President Droupadi Murmu on Tuesday honoured 92 doctors from the 2020 batch at the first convocation ceremony of the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) in Bilaspur in Himachal Pradesh. The doctors received their degrees dressed in traditional kurta-pyjama and caps. The President presented gold medals to five students who topped their respective categories and distributed degrees among the other graduating doctors. The ceremony began with a group photograph of the graduating batch. The AIIMS administration had prescribed the attire for both male and female graduates for the convocation. President Murmu arrived at the AIIMS Bilaspur helipad at around 10.35 a.m. and proceeded directly to the convocation venue. Union Health and Family Welfare Minister J.P. Nadda, Himachal Pradesh Governor Shiv Pratap Shukla and Chief Minister Sukhvinder Sukhu were among the senior leaders who attended the ceremony. During the event, the AIIMS administration presented President Murmu with a traditional Ransingha as a commemorative memento. She was also presented with idols of Baba Balak Nath and Shri Naina Devi as ceremonial gifts. The convocation ceremony marks an important milestone for the institute and the first batch of MBBS students who have completed their medical education at AIIMS Bilaspur. After her Bilaspur engagement, President Murmu is scheduled to travel towards Manali. On October 7, she will visit the Hidimba Temple and the Atal Tunnel at Rohtang in the Lahaul-Spiti district. The visit to the tunnel is part of the President's official programme announced by the President's Secretariat. From 8 p.m. on Tuesday until noon on Wednesday, the movement of regular vehicles from Palchan towards the Atal Tunnel Rohtang will remain closed. No vehicles of any kind will be allowed to proceed along the designated route during this period, the local administration said. The administration has appealed to local residents and tourists to plan their travel accordingly and use alternative routes if necessary. In view of the Presidents visit, security and traffic arrangements have also been tightened. The Atal Tunnel, which provides all-weather connectivity between Manali and the Lahaul Valley, is an important infrastructure link in the region. The President's visit comes after her proposed visit to the tunnel during her earlier Himachal Pradesh tour in April was cancelled because of adverse weather conditions. President Murmu, who is staying in the picturesque tourist resort Manali, is scheduled to conclude her Himachal Pradesh visit on October 8 and return to New Delhi. Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited AIIMS Bilaspur on October 5, 2022, and inaugurated the institution. The foundation stone of the hospital was also laid by the Prime Minister in October 2017, and was established under the Central sector scheme Pradhan Mantri Swasthya Suraksha Yojana. AIIMS Bilaspur, constructed at a cost of more than Rs 1,470 crore, is a state-of-the-art hospital with 18 speciality and 17 super speciality departments, 18 modular operation theatres, and 750 beds with 64 ICU beds. Spread over 247 acres, the hospital is equipped with 24-hour emergency and dialysis facilities. Also, specialist health services are being provided by the hospital through health camps in inaccessible tribal and high Himalayan regions like Kaza, Saluni, and Keylong. Likewise, Prime Minister Modi inaugurated the strategically important, all-weather Atal Tunnel connecting Manali to the Lahaul-Spiti valley on October 3, 2000. Atal Tunnel is the longest highway tunnel in the world. The 9.02-km-long tunnel connects Manali to the Lahaul-Spiti valley throughout the year. Earlier, the valley was cut off for about six months each year owing to heavy snowfall. The tunnel is built with ultra-modern specifications in the Pir Panjal range of the Himalayas at an altitude of 3,000 metres (10,000 feet). The tunnel reduces the road distance by 46 km between Manali and Leh and the time by about four to five hours. The South Portal of the Atal Tunnel is located at a distance of 25 km from Manali at an altitude of 3,060 metres, while the North Portal of the tunnel is located near Teling village in Sissu in the Lahaul Valley at an altitude of 3,071 metres. It is a horseshoe-shaped, single-tube double-lane tunnel with a roadway of eight metres. It has an overhead clearance of 5.525 metres. The tunnel has been designed for a traffic density of 3,000 cars a day and 1,500 trucks per day, with a maximum speed of 80 km per hour.

bhaskarlive 6 Oct 2026 1:12 pm

16,000 vehicles enter Shimla, 7,000 in Manali in a single day as long weekend triggers traffic rush to hills

Tourists from neighbouring states flocked to the hills over the weekend, leading to heavy crowds and prolonged traffic jams across major tourist destinations in Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand. Popular destinations including Kullu-Manali, Shimla, Nainital, Bhimtal...

India TV 3 Oct 2026 7:19 pm

Himachal Road Mishap: HRTC Bus Overturns On Kullu Route; Six Passengers Injured

A Himachal Road Transport Corporation (HRTC) bus travelling from Manali to Pathankot overturned near Bashing in Kullu district after reportedly losing control on a turn. The accident left six passengers injured, who were rushed to a nearby hospital in Kullu for treatment. Authorities and local responders quickly reached the scene after the incident was reported. Preliminary reports indicate that the bus lost control while negotiating a bend on the route before overturning.

NDTV 3 Oct 2026 2:46 pm

'He saved an airplane full of Israelis': Israeli tourists hail Smit Machchhar, hold posters for him in Manali

Two videos from Manali are going viral on social media after a group of tourists, apparently from Israel, were seen holding posters praising Indian pilot Captain Smit Machchhar and thanking him for his actions during...

India TV 2 Oct 2026 2:01 pm

Chennai Corporation vaccinates over one lakh stray dogs against rabies

Digital Desk | Chennai, Sep 29 (IANS) More than one lakh stray dogs have received anti-rabies shots under a campaign by the Greater Chennai Corporation, taking the 75-day drive past the halfway point of its two-lakh target. The civic body said 1,00,378 dogs had been vaccinated as of September 25. Launched on August 11, the campaign uses mobile teams to reach stray dogs in different parts of Chennai. The animals are also being given medication to control internal and external parasites. Ambattur leads the zones covered so far, with 21,844 dogs vaccinated. Madhavaram follows with 15,038, while teams have vaccinated 12,477 dogs in Tondiarpet and 12,313 in Tiruvottiyur. Anna Nagar has recorded 11,895 vaccinations, Royapuram 8,598 and Manali 7,200. Another 4,343 dogs have been covered in Alandur. The drive began in the northern zones of Tiruvottiyur, Manali and Tondiarpet before expanding to other areas. Vaccination work is now underway in Kodambakkam, Thiru-Vi-Ka Nagar and Perungudi, as the corporation works towards its target. The figures show that the campaign has passed 50 per cent of its stated goal, with 99,622 vaccinations still needed to reach two lakh. Ambattur alone accounts for more than one-fifth of all vaccinations recorded by September 25. The corporation has not provided a zone-wise estimate of the number of stray dogs yet to be vaccinated. The number of shots delivered in each area, therefore, shows how much work teams have completed, but does not establish what proportion of that zones stray dogs have been covered. The vaccination programme combines rabies prevention with parasite control during each encounter with a dog. Giving both treatments together allows the mobile teams to attend to the animals while moving through neighbourhoods. The corporation has not given separate figures for the number of dogs receiving parasite medication. With the halfway milestone reached, further progress will depend on how quickly teams can cover areas where vaccination is underway and continue the drive across the city. The civic bodys stated target remains two lakh stray dogs over 75 days. Its September 25 count is the latest reported measure of progress since the campaign began in August.

bhaskarlive 29 Sep 2026 9:13 am

Fresh snowfall blankets Manali peaks, brings chill to hill town

The News Mill

The News Mill 29 Sep 2026 9:02 am

Rally of Himalayas 2026 flags off for historic Zanskar debut

Digital Desk | Manali, Sep 26 (IANS) The Rally of Himalayas 2026, one of India's most demanding Cross-Country Rally (CCR) events, was flagged off from Manali on Saturday, the sixth edition of the rally marking a major milestone with its first-ever entry into the Zanskar region. The rally brings together 140 competitors across Moto, Extreme and TSD (Time, Speed, Distance) categories for five days of competition across the unforgiving Himalayas. The route will take competitors through Kaza, Jispa, Padum and Pensi La, before culminating in Padum, Zanskar, on September 30. The ceremonial flag-off took place at 5:00 PM on Saturday at Dev Lok, 15th Mile, near Span Resort, Manali, and MLA Bhuvneshwar Gaur, Manali, graced the occasion as the Chief Guest, with V. P. S. Jasrotia, Deputy General Manager, Jammu & Kashmir Bank, as the Guest of Honour. First held in 2021, the Rally of Himalayas has grown into a challenging platform for riders and drivers to test their endurance, navigation, machinery and competitive skills against the demands of Himalayan terrain. The 2026 edition brings together a diverse field of professional competitors, private entrants, women competitors and Army teams across three categories. The Moto category features 80 riders, including one female rider, while the Extreme category has 35 participants, including two female drivers and five Army teams. The TSD category sees 24 competitors, including four female participants, with the category testing precision, timing and navigation. The defining feature of this year's rally is its first-ever entry into Zanskar. From the high-altitude terrain around Kaza, competitors will progress towards Jispa and into the Zanskar region, taking on the route through Padum and Pensi La before returning to Padum for the culmination of the event. The new route will introduce competitors to a combination of high altitude, remote terrain, long competitive sections and changing Himalayan conditions, making preparation, navigation, endurance and reliability critical elements of the competition. It is particularly meaningful that this edition is also being held as a tribute to Hari Singh, the Gypsy King and a five-time National Rally Champion, whose contribution to Indian rallying continues to inspire generations of competitors and enthusiasts. JK Tyre, a name synonymous with motorsport in India, has been at the forefront of promoting and competing in some of the country's most extreme motorsport events. The company's motorsport legacy began with rallying, a discipline that continues to be at the heart of its racing DNA. The Rally of the Himalayas represents the spirit of endurance and adventure that has always been at the heart of Indian motorsport. The Department of Tourism, UT Ladakh, is partnering as a sponsor for the Rally of the Himalayas 2026 to showcase Zanskar as one of Indias most spectacular emerging adventure tourism destinations. The rally provides a unique platform to highlight the regions dramatic landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and unparalleled driving routes to a national and international audience of motorsport enthusiasts, adventure seekers, and travel influencers. Through this association, the Department aims to position Zanskar as a premier destination for experiential and adventure tourism, while fostering greater visitor interest, economic opportunities for local communities, and sustainable tourism growth across the region. This year, as the rally enters Zanskar for the first time, competitors will face high-altitude mountain terrain, long competitive sections, and changing Himalayan conditions, making preparation, navigation, endurance, and reliability critical elements of the competition.

bhaskarlive 26 Sep 2026 10:27 pm

Bridges, tunnels, expressways, rail services making infra-led transformation visible

Digital Desk | New Delhi, Sep 24 (IANS) The transformation of Indias transport network is changing how people and regions connect with one another, a government factsheet showed on Thursday, adding that bridges and tunnels are opening new crossings while expressways and modern rail services are redefining long-distance travel. Bridges are removing long and slow river crossings from everyday travel and turning journeys that once took hours into much shorter trips. The rail-cum-road bridge over the Brahmaputra has transformed connectivity between Dhemaji and Dibrugarh. Journeys that earlier took almost an entire day now take about one to two hours, said the factsheet. The Mumbai Trans Harbour Link provides a direct connection between Mumbai and Navi Mumbai, cutting the journey to about 20 minutes. The Kosi Rail Mahasetu reduced the rail journey between Nirmali and Saraigarh from about eight hours to 30 minutes, while reducing the distance from about 300 km to 22 km. Moreover, the 200-metre Sisseri River Bridge reduced the travel time between Pasighat and Roing by about five hours, strengthening connectivity between Dibang Valley and Siang. Tunnels are taking the shortest route through some of Indias most difficult terrain. The 9.02-km Atal Tunnel bypasses Rohtang Pass and reduces the ManaliSarchu distance by 46 km, providing all-weather connectivity to Lahaul-Spiti. The 9-km Dr. Syama Prasad Mookerjee Tunnel bypasses difficult terrain and cuts the travel distance by about 30 km and reduces travel time between Jammu and Srinagar by nearly two hours. Sela Tunnel in Arunachal Pradesh, built at an altitude of about 13,000 feet, ensures all-weather connectivity on the strategically important Tezpur-Tawang route. Expressways are changing the pace of inter-city travel through shorter alignments, controlled access and higher speeds. The 82-km DelhiMeerut Expressway reduced travel time between Delhi and Meerut from around two and a half hours to about 50 minutes. The 213-km DelhiDehradun Economic Corridor reduces travel time between Delhi and Dehradun from over six hours to around two and a half hours. The DelhiMumbai greenfield expressway is being developed to reduce travel time between Delhi and Mumbai to about 12 hours from roughly 33 hours. Meanwhile, Vande Bharat Express and India's first Vande Bharat Sleeper are saving crucial time for passengers. The 508-km MumbaiAhmedabad High-Speed Rail Corridor, with an operational speed of 320 kmph, will serve 12 stations. It includes India's first undersea rail tunnel, about 7 km beneath Thane Creek. The first service is targeted for August 2027. Announced in the Union Budget 202627, the seven High-Speed Rail (HSR) Corridors span nearly 4,000 km with an estimated investment of Rs 16 lakh crore, said the factsheet.

bhaskarlive 24 Sep 2026 11:07 am

North Chennai residents demand civic infrastructure, pollution control in Manali

United Nations Human Rights Office of the High Commissioner has recently accepted the report of the civil society in north Chennai as part of the study byHuman Rights Council Advisory Committee on pollution in the area

The Hindu 21 Sep 2026 12:04 am

'e-rickshaw Se Spiti': Muzaffarnagar driver three-wheeler to Spiti Valley in Himachal, documents mountain journey on Instagram

Muzaffarnagar e-rickshaw driver Sumit Kumar Prajapati travelled from Manali to Spiti Valley in his battery-powered three-wheeler, documenting the challenging mountain journey on Instagram, including charging stops, rough roads and his arrival at Kunzum Pass.

The Economic Times 17 Sep 2026 9:17 am

'e-rickshaw Se Spiti': Muzaffarnagar driver three-wheeler to Spiti Valley in Himachal, documents mountain journey on Instagram

Muzaffarnagar e-rickshaw driver Sumit Kumar Prajapati travelled from Manali to Spiti Valley in his battery-powered three-wheeler, documenting the challenging mountain journey on Instagram, including charging stops, rough roads and his arrival at Kunzum Pass.

The Economic Times 17 Sep 2026 9:17 am

Kangana reacts as netizen points mistake in bhog preparation: Tum sirf khaane pe dhyaan do

Mumbai, Sep 5 (IANS) Actor and BJP MPKangana Ranautslammed a netizen who pointed out a mistake in her Janmashtami bhog preparation. On Friday, the 'Queen' actress dropped a video of herself preparing special bhog for the festival of Janmashtami at her Manali home, and one of the X (Previously known as Twitter) users commented that Kangana had not even switched on the gas to cook the bhog. The user also said that the utensil on which she was cooking was already black. Responding to the comment, the 'Tanu Weds Manu' actress hit back at the user saying, Yeh halwa nahi bhog hai (This is a separate dish), many ingredients are prepared separately and then all are mixed in this phase, before setting and then cutting it into pieces, cant expect cooking skills from people who are a burden on parents and the planet, tum sirf khaane pe dhyaan do (you focus on eating only) dont worry about cooking. (sic) Meanwhile, in the post uploaded by Kangana on Friday, she relived some fond memories of making the festive offering in the same kitchen as a kid. The video had the 'Emergency' actress saying in Hindi, Jai Shri Krishna. Today, on the occasion of Janmashtami, I am at my mother's home in Mandi. This is the same kitchen in Mandi where we used to make prasad for Lord Krishna during our childhood. Today, I am making the same bhog for Him. Today is also the birthday of my niece Kadambari, so on this occasion, I wish everyone a very happy Janmashtami. Kangana wore a beautiful white traditional outfit for the festival, accessorized with a small bindi and traditional earrings. The clip showed her standing in the kitchen, stirring a large pan containing the bhoj for Janmashtami celebrations.

bhaskarlive 5 Sep 2026 7:04 pm

Peechi Dam in Thrissur to open four spillway shutters on August 31

District Collector has warned residents along the Manali and Karuvannur rivers to remain vigilant as the water level in the rivers could rise by up to 30 cm from the present level following the release of water from the dam

The Hindu 29 Aug 2026 9:38 pm

Four killed, 7 injured in two-truck collision in Hanogi Tunnel in Himachal Pradesh's Mandi

Four people were killed and seven others injured after two trucks collided head-on inside the Hanogi Tunnel on the Chandigarh-Manali National Highway in Himachal Pradesh on Thursday morning. The accident took place at around 7:45 am,...

India TV 20 Aug 2026 12:14 pm

'Mountain living dream different from reality': Gen-Z employee who moved to Manali from Delhi moves back to national capital citing multiple reasons

Delhi-based Gen Z creator Ajay Sharma returned from Manali after 71 days, saying mountain living proved more difficult than expected despite becoming deeply meaningful. He spent Rs 21,000 a month, documented his experience in nearly 55 videos and faced network outages, rain, poor roads, isolation and demanding treks. His experience sparked mixed reactions online about mountain versus city life.

The Economic Times 19 Aug 2026 10:57 am

Delhi man's emotional goodbye to Manali after months of living alone goes viral

Delhi mans emotional goodbye to Manali after months of living alone goes viral

India Today 18 Aug 2026 2:04 pm

Gen Z Man Left Delhi To Settle In Manali, Returned Just 2 Months Later. Here's Why

Despite enjoying the experience and spending only around Rs 21,000 a month, he returned to Delhi, saying the reality of living in the hills was very different from the dream.

NDTV 18 Aug 2026 11:01 am

CM Sukhu Pays Tribute to Former PM Vajpayee on His Death Anniversary

Shimla, August 16: On the death anniversary of former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee, Chief Minister Sukhu paid his respects. He also responded to yoga guru Baba Ramdevs comments regarding corruption and paper leaks in government recruitment. CM Sukhu told the media, Atal Bihari Vajpayee often stayed at his residence in Prini, Manali during his ... Read more CM Sukhu Pays Tribute to Former PM Vajpayee on His Death Anniversary

Daily Kiran 16 Aug 2026 3:54 pm

Manali Petrochemicals consolidated net profit rises 348.81% in the June 2026 quarter

Sales rise 17.07% to Rs 274.72 crore

Business Standard 14 Aug 2026 9:19 am

Manali Petrochemicals Q1 FY27 consolidated net profit rises over 4x

Consolidated revenue rose by 17 per cent to 275 crore, up from 235 crore

The Hindu Businessline 13 Aug 2026 10:10 pm

How much does it cost to live near Manali? Couple reveals monthly expenses of their mountain life including rent food, fuel and more

Living near the picturesque Manali in Himachal Pradesh, a couple detailed their monthly expenses. Their rent for a spacious 4BHK property consumes a substantial chunk of their budget. Monthly costs for groceries and dining out hover around fifteen thousand rupees. Thanks to walking and free water, their fuel and electricity expenses remain low. Overall, their serene mountain lifestyle costs about fifty thousand rupees every month.

The Economic Times 12 Aug 2026 5:22 pm

Chennai Launches Drive to Vaccinate 2 Lakh Stray Dogs Against Rabies

The first phase of the campaign began in the Tiruvottiyur, Manali and Tondiarpet zones

Deccan Chronicle 12 Aug 2026 11:14 am

Schools closed in Himachals Kullu in view of heavy rains; orange alert issued in three districts

The Mandi-Manali stretch of the Kirathpur-Manali National Highway was closed to vehicular traffic following a landslip near the Jhalogi tunnel in Mandi district. The road will be opened after the rain stops and the situation is normalised, says officials

The Hindu 11 Aug 2026 5:44 pm

64 dead in Himachal Pradesh since monsoon's onset; wet spell to be on till Aug 12

Monsoon rains have caused 64 deaths and Rs 797 crore in losses across Himachal Pradesh. One hundred twenty roads remain closed, and many water supply schemes are disrupted. The Hindustan-Tibet road was reopened after a significant landslide in Kinnaur. Moderate to heavy rain continues, with a yellow alert issued until August 12. Manali and Dharamshala recorded significant rainfall in the past 24 hours.

The Economic Times 6 Aug 2026 7:19 pm

Kangana Ranaut's Rs 30 crore Manali mansion has eight mountain-view bedrooms and a rooftop glass conservatory; here's a look inside her Himalayan home

Kangana Ranaut's Manali mansion, reportedly acquired for Rs 30 crore, sits 2,000 metres above sea level in the Himalayas and features eight bedrooms, a rooftop glass conservatory, a yoga room, and mountain views from every room. Designed by Shabnam Gupta, the property was featured in Architectural Digest and has drawn wide attention on social media.

The Economic Times 3 Aug 2026 3:53 pm

Manali hotel refuses stay despite confirmed booking: Guest wins Rs 31,000; court says refund alone didn't make up for the mental harassment

Manali hotel denied booking: A Gurgaon consumer commission has ordered The Allure Grand Resort in Manali to pay Rs 31,000 in compensation and litigation costs after it denied stay to a guest despite a confirmed booking, leaving him stranded in an unfamiliar hill station. The court ruled that returning the advance alone does not erase the mental harassment caused.

The Economic Times 28 Jul 2026 10:24 am

Manali emerges as India's adventure capital, sets global benchmark for heli-skiing, paragliding

Once known primarily as a honeymoon and sightseeing destination, Manali has repositioned itself as India's trendsetter in adventure tourism, offering all-weather and around-the-year adventure activities. Rock climbing, ice climbing, bungee jumping, zipline, and mountain biking are a few more to mention.

The Economic Times 19 Jul 2026 8:38 pm

Rights organisation files war crimes complaint with India against Israeli soldier spotted along hummus trail

Though Eitan Gilboa has now fled India, he was traced by pro-Palestinian activists and the HRF in Old Manali and Gondla Village of Himachal Pradesh, which are popular spots among Israelis along the Hummus trail

The Hindu 5 Jul 2026 2:58 pm

Corporate Couple Moves To Manali For Remote Work, Ends Up Saving Rs 30,000 Every Month

Living in Manali quietly erased a bunch of expenses they didn't even realise were draining them in the city.

NDTV 5 Jul 2026 8:08 am

Scorpio Falls Into Under-Construction Bridge Near Atal Tunnel, Tourist Killed

According to police, the tourists were travelling from Manali to Lahaul on Tuesday night when the accident occurred.

NDTV 1 Jul 2026 11:59 pm