A unique torai that can rice to the occasion
Scientists have developed a unique sponge gourd variety, VRSG-7-17, that naturally smells like Basmati rice. This aromatic trait, identified at ICAR-IIVR Varanasi, is due to a stabilized recessive gene. The aroma persists even after cooking, offering new commercial opportunities and potentially higher farmer incomes due to consumer appeal.
Have you heard? Ali Asgar on rumours of quitting acting
Ali Asgar denies quitting films and TV, saying rumours are false. Hell soon appear in a new non-comedy serial. MM Keeravaani promises nothing short of grandeur for the music of Varanasi
Day after oppn by traders, demolition of bldgs resumes for Dalmandi project
BHU & CII sign MoU to support inclusive devpt
Factory blaze in Gkp doused after 25-hrs diligence by 100 firefighters
Stage set for Subah-e-Banaras 11th edition
FIR against hotel for housing foreigners sans permission
Cow slaughter accused held in encounter in Azamgarh
Watch: Bolero Collides With Truck, Flips And Lands Upright, All In 6 Seconds
A routine morning on the Gorakhpur-Varanasi highway turned frightening when a speeding Bolero slammed into a small truck on an overbridge and overturned.
Varanasi court directs Rahul Gandhi to appear on December 18 in case over remarks on lord ram
VARANASI/ LUCKNOW: The Varanasi court on Friday directed Congress leader and Rae Bareli MP Rahul Gandhi, or his lawyer, to appear before it on the next hearing date, December 18, after neither of them turned up for proceedings in a case related to his alleged remarks on Lord Ram. The matter was listed before the court of Special Judge (MP-MLA) Yajurved Vikram Singh, but the hearing had to be postponed due to their absence. Rahul Gandhi is accused of calling Lord Ram fictional during an interaction at Brown University in the United States. In response, advocate Harishankar Pandey filed a revision petition in the Varanasi court. Advocate Pandey had earlier submitted a petition on May 12 this year, alleging that during Gandhis session with students at Brown University on April 21, he described Lord Shri Ram as mythological and stories from that period as fictional. The complaint further alleged that Rahul Gandhi and the Congress party had repeatedly insulted Hindus and symbols of Sanatan Dharma. The court will first examine the maintainability of the petition. Pandey initially filed his complaint before the Additional Chief Judicial Magistrate (MP-MLA). After the hearing, the Special Chief Judicial Magistrate (MP-MLA) dismissed the petition on May 17, 2025. Pandey then filed a revision petition before the District Judges Court on 26 September 2025. The petitioner claimed that Rahul Gandhi had hurt national sentiments by questioning the existence of Lord Ram, calling him a Ram Drohi. He also alleged that the UPA government had opposed the Ram Temple and that Gandhi was now raising doubts about Lord Ram abroad. The lawyer urged the court to register a case over the remarks. The MP-MLA Court had earlier fixed May 19, 2025 for hearing the application; the hearing was held on that date, and the court reserved its order.
Hotel in Varanasi booked for hosting foreign guests without mandatory registration, FIR lodged
Varanasi Police have filed a case against Hotel Dayal Tower for allegedly housing foreign guests without proper registration. Authorities discovered 20 foreign nationals from various countries staying at the hotel without submitting mandatory C-forms or informing local departments. The hotel management reportedly failed to produce required documents during a surprise check, prompting an investigation into violations of foreign national laws.
Established under a strategic collaboration between Starbucks Coffee Company & Tata Starbucks, the FSP aims to empower 10,000 Indian coffee farmers by 2030 Starbucks will open its 500th coffeehouse in India this week in Delhi NCR a Starbucks Reserve location offering a premium and immersive coffee experience Reaffirming its long-term commitment to India, and its plans to deepen its coffee leadership in the market, Starbucks Coffee Company today announced the establishment of a Farmer Support Partnership (FSP). In collaboration with Tata Starbucks Private Limited, the FSP will connect local agronomists and farmers to global farming best practices through open-source agronomy. Starbucks Coffee Company and Tata Starbucks re-affirm coffee leadership and announce a Farmer Support Partnership (FSP) to strengthen the coffee value chain from Bean to Cup Strengthening Indias coffee value chain from bean to cup Starbucks Coffee Trading Company, SARL (SCTC), Starbucks global procurement and trading subsidiary, will collaborate closely with Tata Starbucks to empower 10,000 farmers by 2030. The FSP based in Karnataka will combine Tata Starbucks deep local knowledge, Indias coffee-growing heritage, and decades of Starbucks global agronomy expertise. It will support farmers from Indias key coffee growing states including Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh and Kerala to strengthen connections with Starbucks global network, drive innovation, and share best practices in farming and sustainability to ensure a sustainable future for India coffee. The FSP will set up technical model farms in partnership with farmers in India, incorporating global learnings, to embed best practices in coffee agronomy and test sustainable solutions. The FSP in India will serve as a hub for testing new varietals, provide knowledge on innovative farming techniques aligned to Indian practices and conditions, and share insights about other agroforestry initiatives to improve coffee quality, productivity and climate resiliency. The goal is to build upon traditional methods to help farmers improve both the quality of their crops and their profitability. The FSP will work closely with existing centers of excellence within the Starbucks global network. This includes partnering with Farmer Support Centers (FSC) in coffee-growing regions around the world, where agronomists collaborate directly with farmers on research, and learning from existing model farms within Starbucks supply chain. This network includes FSCs in the APAC region in North Sumatra, Indonesia and Yunnan, China and Hacienda Alsacia in Costa Rica, Starbucks first company-operated coffee farm and headquarters to the Starbucks Costa Rica Farmer Support Center and Starbucks Global Research and Development team. Through the FSP, Indian farmers will also benefit from Starbucks 2026 global digital training tools, which will offer detailed online modules on agronomy, coffee quality, and C.A.F.E. (Coffee and Farmer Equity) practices to foster ethical sourcing and ultimately enhance productivity and sustainability. It will also educate farmers about Regen-Ag (regenerative agriculture) practices and methods to reduce carbon, water, and waste footprints, and contribute to agroforestry and social development initiatives. The FSP will develop projects across the key Starbucks commitments of unlocking coffee productivity, increasing farm profitability and building climate resiliency over the next 5 years. To build capability and strengthen Indias entire coffee value chain, Tata Starbucks will also donate one million high-yield variety Arabica seedlings to farmers over the next five years. During his visit to India this week, Brian Niccol, chairman and chief executive officer of Starbucks said, India is one of our fastest-growing markets. Were partnering with Tata to shape the future of coffee in India, including supporting farmers, empowering communities, and delivering the highest quality offerings to our customers. Its a long-term commitment to build a stronger, more sustainable coffee ecosystem that benefits everyone, from bean to cup . Sunil D'Souza, Managing Director & CEO at Tata Consumer Products said, Through the past decade, together, Tata Consumer Products and Starbucks, have helped shape Indias thriving coffee culture and industry. With this new initiative, we are pleased to pair Starbucks global agronomy expertise with Tatas footprint in India to drive tangible impact and pave the way for the future of responsible coffee farming in India . Re-affirming Starbucks coffee leadership through differentiated and elevated experiences Since its inception in 2012 as a joint venture between Starbucks Coffee Company and Tata Consumer Products, Tata Starbucks has been dedicated to delivering the unique Starbucks Experience to customers in India. This has set the stage for Indias ever evolving and dynamic coffee culture. This week, Tata Starbucks will celebrate the opening of its 500th coffeehouse in India, marking a significant milestone in its growth journey and reaffirming its long-term commitment to the market. As one of Starbucks fastest-growing international markets, India remains central to the companys plans for strategic and sustainable expansion, with continued focus on job creation and meaningful development opportunities for its partners (employees). The 500th coffeehouse will be the second location to offer a Starbucks Reserve coffee experience in Delhi NCR, engaging coffee enthusiasts with an immersive experience that showcases Starbucks coffee craft, heritage, and storytelling. The coffeehouse and its Starbucks Reserve experience underscore Tata Starbucks commitment to elevating Indias coffee craftsmanship through elevated store design, handcrafted beverages, and locally inspired innovations. As part of the global strategy to make Starbucks a welcoming coffeehouse where people gather to enjoy the finest coffee handcrafted by skilled baristas, Tata Starbucks will continue to focus on creating a differentiated and elevated coffee forward experience in India. It invites customers to experience the full flavor profile it offers - serving the worlds finest coffee and elevated offerings in a welcoming coffeehouse environment that has made it a beloved part of Indias coffee landscape. Sushant Dash, chief executive officer of Tata Starbucks said, As the largest specialty coffee player in India, we are proud to bring the Farmer Support Partnership in collaboration with SCTC, a meaningful step toward strengthening Indias coffee-growing community and securing the future of high-quality Arabica. Our commitment to India extends beyond growth, to investing in farmers, partners (employees) and customers to continue building a vibrant coffee culture. We will continue to serve the finest Arabica coffee from India and around the world, brought to life through the warm, welcoming third place experience that defines Starbucks . About Starbucks Since 1971, Starbucks Coffee Company has been committed to ethically sourcing and roasting high-quality arabica coffee. Today, with more than 40,000 stores worldwide, the company is the premier roaster and retailer of specialty coffee in the world. Through our unwavering commitment to excellence and our guiding principles, we bring the unique Starbucks Experience to life for every customer through every cup. To share in the experience, please visit us in our stores or online at about.starbucks.com or starbucks.com . About Tata Starbucks Private Limited Starbucks entered the Indian market in October 2012 through a 50/50 Joint Venture with Tata Consumer Products Limited and currently operates more than 497 stores in India across 81 cities, Agra, Ahmedabad, Ajmer, Alibaug, Amritsar, Anand, Aurangabad, Bangalore, Bhatinda, Bhopal, Bhubaneswar, Calicut, Chandigarh, Chennai, Dehradun, Faridabad, Gandhinagar, Ghaziabad, Goa, Guntur, Gurgaon, Guwahati, Gwalior Haridwar, Hyderabad, Coimbatore, Indore, Jaipur, Jalandhar, Jodhpur, Kanpur, Kochi, Kolhapur, Kolkata, Lonavala, Lucknow, Ludhiana, Mangalore, Meerut, Mumbai, Mussoorie, Mysore, Nagpur, Nashik, New Delhi, Noida, Pathankot, Patiala, Pondicherry, Pune, Raipur, Siliguri, Sonipat, Surat, Thrissur, Trivandrum, Udaipur, Vadodara, Vapi, Varanasi, Vijayawada, Varanasi and Vizag are cities in India. through a network of over 4,437 passionate partners (employees). Starbucks stores are operated by the joint venture, Tata Starbucks Private Limited, and branded as Starbucks Coffee - A TATA Alliance.
Varanasi road widening reflects BJPs narrow mindset: Akhilesh
Demolition a political exercise in Varanasi, should be stopped, says Akhilesh
Mr. Yadav, who met the aggrieved traders of Varanasis Dal Mandi at the Samajwadi State Office in Lucknow, said that the political demolition of Varanasi Dal Mandi should be stopped
Roads, transport, logistics key to $1tn UP economy
4 criminals arrested in four encounters in Azamgarh district
15,000 youths take part in Agniveer recruitment rally in Varanasi
Sonbhadra mine tragedy: Four held; probe on, says SP
Banaras rly stations new code is BNRS
Public participation must to achieveViksit Bharat goal: Anupriya Patel
'Varanasi' controversy: Ram Gopal Varma defends SS Rajamouli
Filmmaker Ram Gopal Varma has publicly defended SS Rajamouli after the director faced backlash for declaring himself an atheist. Varma argued that atheism is constitutionally protected and that an artist's personal beliefs shouldn't limit their creative expression. He suggested critics' jealousy fuels the controversy, asserting Rajamouli's success will continue regardless.
Modi wish, VMCs command: Forum for child poets soon
NER GM inspects safety, amenities at Gkp-Gonda section
Kashi Samvaad 2025: Innovation, equity & inclusion for sustainable social development
Six cattle smugglers held in Ghazipur encounter
NEET aspirant kidnapped, rescued within 45 mins
Gyanvapi row: Hearing on plea for replacing wazukhana cloth seal on Dec 3
Youth killed, body dumpedin pond by girlfriends family in Azamgarh
Filmmaker SS Rajamouli faces a police complaint from the Vanara Sena organization for allegedly hurting Hindu sentiments with remarks about Lord Hanuman during the 'Varanasi' film promotions. Rajamouli, who identifies as an atheist, expressed disappointment in the deity after a technical glitch, leading to the complaint. Police are investigating the matter.
Varanasi Title Dispute Will Be Sorted, Says Bharat Bushan
The disagreement arose after director S S Rajamouli announced his forthcoming film starring Mahesh Babu, Priyanka Chopra, and Prithviraj Sukumaran with the title Varanasi.
Codeine cough syrup worth Rs2cr seized from warehouse
PM-KISAN scheme boon for small, marginal farmers: Minister
Kashi Samvaad 2025: Catalyzing social developmentfor Indias inclusive growth
Gorakhpur bags natl honour for water conservation efforts
Kashi Samvaad 2025: Towards Viksit Bharat at BHU from tomorrow
4 cops suspended for role in liquor smuggling as WA chats go viral
Man with criminal history murdered in Ballia
Training on GHG emission measurement in rice systems
Fan pays Mahesh Babus Range Rover challans in Hyderabad
Hyderabad: Mahesh Babu, one of the biggest superstars in South Indian cinema, is known for his charm, massive box office pull, and a fan base that treats him like a real-life prince. As he prepares for his next global adventure film Varanasi, popularly known as SSMB29, directed by SS Rajamouli, the excitement around his career 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 .
Inside The Codeine Cartel: How Varanasi's 'Cough Syrup King' Built His Multi-Crore Empire
Authorities in Uttar Pradesh probe Shubham Jaiswals alleged multi-crore codeine syrup trade, with over 130 businessmen under scrutiny and links to Bangladesh diversion emerging
UP: Six cattle smugglers caught in encounter with Ghazipur cops
Ghazipur police, with SWAT and local teams, apprehended eight cattle smugglers after an exchange of fire. Three smugglers sustained leg injuries and were hospitalized. The operation led to the recovery of three pistols, cartridges, an SUV, and a pickup truck carrying six cattle.
Capital punishment awarded to accused of brutally killing 8-year-old girl after rape in UP
A Ramnagar man, Irshad, has been sentenced to death by hanging for the brutal rape and murder of an 8-year-old girl. The special POCSO court delivered the verdict within 11 months of the incident, also imposing a Rs 60,000 fine. The court described Irshad as 'savage' and a danger to society.
Dreaded looter caught in encounter with cops in Azamgarh
Kotwali police in Azamgarh district apprehended a criminal during a midnight raid. The accused sustained a leg injury during an exchange of fire. He was found with a motorcycle, pistol, and a stolen gold chain. The arrested individual, identified as Pintu alias Ashok from Varanasi, has multiple cases registered against him. He confessed to a recent chain-snatching incident.
Mahesh Babu's diet plan: Mahesh Babu's diet and fitness routine are drawing attention. Fans are discussing his disciplined eating habits and consistent workouts. The actor follows a structured plan with multiple meals daily. This approach helps him maintain his lean physique year-round. His dedication to fitness is a lifelong choice, not just for films.
Filmmaker SS Rajamouli is facing a police complaint from the Vanara Sena organization for allegedly hurting Hindu sentiments with his remarks about Lord Hanuman. The comments were reportedly made during a promotional event for his upcoming film 'Varanasi' in Hyderabad. The police have received the complaint and are currently investigating the matter.
Plaint against SS Rajamouli for allegedly hurting Hindu sentiments
The Vanara Sena organisation has lodged a complaint accusing ace filmmaker SS Rajamouli of allegedly hurting Hindu sentiments with his remarks against Lord Hanuman during a recent promotional event in Hyderabad for his upcoming film Varanasi, police said on Tuesday. The filmmaker had participated on November 15 at the Globe Trotter event to promote his []
Sonbhadra mine collapse: Toll mounts to 7
Prez honours Gkp lad Siddharth Shiv Jaiswal
IIT-BHU, Japan university strengthen academic ties
CM Yogi visits his OSDs residence to shower blessings on bride-to-be
CM: Ensure strict action, swift help in police-related cases
Stubble burning: Lekhpal suspended, notice to SDMs and SHOs in Maharajganj
Yogi visits Gkp,completes SIR formalities
SIT to probe Rs100cr codeine cough syrup scam
BHU hosts Ghat Walk in run-up to KTS 4.0; Rlys to run spl trains
Cattle smugglers property worth Rs31.2L attached in Azamgarh
As per reports, Priyanka Chopra is charging Rs 30 crore for Varanasi, making her the highest-paid Indian actress. The SS Rajamouli directorial also stars Mahesh Babu and Prithviraj Sukumaran in the leading roles.
Rs 200 crore? Inside Rajamoulis grand Varanasi promotion plan
Hyderabad: SS Rajamouli has created huge excitement with the first glimpse of his upcoming film Varanasi, starring Mahesh Babu, Priyanka Chopra, and Prithviraj Sukumaran. The four minute teaser impressed audiences worldwide with its scale, visuals, and ambitious storytelling across multiple timelines. As expected, the film is being planned on a massive global scale. Varanasi Budget 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 .
IIT-BHU, Niigata University, Japan Joint Symposium for mutual cooperation, foster new opportunities
IIT-BHU and Niigata University concluded a two-day symposium to bolster academic and research collaboration. The event facilitated discussions on intensifying mutual cooperation in advanced research, student exchange, and academic development. This partnership aims to strengthen institutional ties and foster cultural understanding between India and Japan.
Kashi Tamil Sangamam 4.0 pre-event activities begin with Ghat Walk, railway to run special trains
Pre-event activities for Kashi Tamil Sangamam 4.0 commenced with a 'Ghat Walk' in Varanasi, raising awareness for the cultural confluence. Special trains will operate from Kanyakumari and Coimbatore to accommodate increased pilgrim and visitor demand during the event, scheduled from December 2 to 15.
Azamgarh police have attached land valued at Rs 31,29,840 belonging to cattle smuggler Abu Talib. The action was taken under the Gangster Act to dismantle his illicit financial empire. Talib faces multiple cases for cow slaughtering and cattle smuggling, with the attached property reportedly purchased with illegally earned money.
Never liked Lord Ram: Rajamoulis controversial remarks spark outrage
Hyderabad: Tollywoods ace director SS Rajamouli has created massive anticipation with his upcoming film Varanasi, starring Mahesh Babu, Priyanka Chopra and Prithviraj Sukumaran. The film carries a huge budget and expectations are high because Rajamouli is known for large scale storytelling. The first look and teaser launch at Ramoji Film City recently added to the Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
SS Rajamouli in BIG trouble: Complaint filed against Varanasi director for 'hurtful' remarks on...
Days after Varanasi first look launch, SS Rajamouli has landed into major trouble. Read on to know more.
Anjali, Sara Tendulkar seek blessings at Kashi Vishwanath temple in Varanasi
Anjali and Sara Tendulkar visited the Kashi Vishwanath Temple with deep devotion, participating in rituals and receiving holy offerings. The mother-daughter duo admired the spiritual ambiance of the Kashi Vishwanath Corridor during their visit. Both were presented with Rudraksha garlands, a shawl, and a memento by temple authorities.
Priyanka Chopra Calls Working With Mahesh Babu, Prithviraj in Varanasi a 'Privilege'
Mahesh Babu will be seen as Rudhra, a divine character who is both globe-trotting and time-travelling.
Priyanka Chopra calls working with Mahesh Babu, Rajamouli in Varanasi a privilege
Mumbai: As movie buffs await the release of Varanasi, Global sensation Priyanka Chopra called working with Tollywood heartthrobs Mahesh Babu and Prithviraj Sukumaran, and acclaimed director SS Rajamouli a privilege. Sharing a string of photos with Mahesh Babu, Rajamouli, and Prithviraj on her Instagram handle, PeeCee wrote, Working with these two legends of the Telugu 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 .
Patel united India from Kashmir to Kanyakumari: UP ministers
No guilty to be spared if violation in mining norms detected: Minister
Sonbhadra mine collapse: Toll reaches 6, search op on
Gorakhpur to get UPs 1st State Institute of Hotel Mgmt
Police seize 2 luxury cars of Vijay Mishras close aide
CM sets June 26 deadline for 4-lane project
Gorakhpur bags natl honour for water conservation
Woman, paramour held for bid to kill hubby
55-year-old man rapes minor, held
Codeine cough syrup row: FSDA lens on 102 drug traders
Mahesh Babu's dedication to fitness is evident as he trains 365 days a year, not just for roles. His trainer revealed a disciplined five-day-a-week workout routine and a balanced diet of five to six nutrient-rich meals, emphasising consistency for his lean and muscular physique. Read on to know everything in detail.
SS Rajamouli's magnum opus Varanasi isn't just a globetrotter, but also a timetrotter, spun across different time spaces and yugas. Mahesh Babu isn't just playing Rudhra, but also the role of Lord Rama.
Priyanka Chopra has delivered some truly unforgettable performances across Bollywood and global cinema. From intense biopics to emotionally rich dramas, she has consistently proven her range as an actor. In this slideshow, we revisit her most powerful roles that shaped her career. These performances remain must-watch gems for every cinema lover.
UP's Sonbhadra stone quarry collapse: Death toll climbs to four
SONBHADRA: Three more bodies have been recovered from the rubble of a stone quarry that collapsed in Sonbhadra district of Uttar Pradesh, taking the death toll to four, an official said on Monday. District Magistrate, Sonbhadra, BN Singh said the bodies were recovered on the intervening night of Sunday and Monday. One body was recovered in the night. The deceased was identified as Indrajit (30), a resident of Panari, Obra. The other two bodies have not been identified and efforts are on to identify them, Singh said. The quarry collapsed on Saturday evening. Additional Director General of Police (ADG), Varanasi Zone, Piyush Mordia on Sunday said clearing the rubble is taking time due to presence of several heavy stones. Sonbhadra Superintendent of Police (SP) Abhishek Verma had said they were informed about the collapse at around 4.30 pm on Saturday at Obra Police Station. The caller said that several workers were buried under the debris after a portion of a stone quarry operated by Krishna Mining Works collapsed. The police have booked the owner of Krishna Mining Works and his business partners, Madhusudan Singh and Dilip Keshari, both residents of Obra, on the complaint of Chhotu Yadav, a resident of Parsoi Tola, who said his two brothers are trapped under the rubble, the SP said. The three are yet to be arrested. Samajwadi Party's Robertsganj MP, Chotelal Kharwar, alleged that the mine was illegally run by mafia in collusion with the local police. There is a possibility that 12 to 15 people are trapped under the stones. Tribals are being killed in many ways, and large-scale illegal mining is being carried out in this area. One or two such incidents occur every month in this region, but how the mining mafia manages everything remains unknown, he said. Illegal mining is being carried out with the connivance of police and administration officials, the MP alleged. Kharwar alleged that he was stopped by the police from meeting the kin of the trapped mine workers. He also demanded Rs 50 lakh in compensation for the victim's family and a government job for each family.
Priyanka Chopra looked like a living goddess in this ethereal white lehenga
Priyanka Chopra captivated at the Varanasi title reveal, embodying an ethereal apsara in an Anamika Khanna white creation. Her ivory lehenga, adorned with delicate florals and antique gold work, was complemented by South Indian bridal jewellery. This look offers timeless inspiration for brides seeking a divine and classic pre-wedding ensemble.
Fan Backlash: Rajamouli's Remarks On Hanuman Stir Massive Online Disappointment
The filmmaker has not yet responded to the backlash. Whether the controversy will impact the buzz around Varanasi remains to be seen.
Mahesh Babu is currently shooting for SS Rajamoulis much-awaited film, now officially titled Varanasi. The makers organised a star-studded mega event on November 15, where they unveiled the actors first look along with a short clip announcing the title. Recently, Rajamouli revealed a rare habit of the Telugu superstar, and fans are curious to know what it is. Read on to find out!
Sonbhadra mine collapse: Toll rises to 4; rescue operations continue as several still trapped
The death toll in the Sonbhadra mine collapse has risen to four after three more bodies were recovered. The incident occurred Saturday afternoon at the Billi Markundi mining site, burying several laborers. An FIR has been lodged against Krishna Mining Works and two staff members for alleged negligence.
BHU researchers revive timeless rice variety Adam Chini with innovation
NEW DELHI: Farmers in the eastern districts of Uttar Pradesh are seeing their dreams take flight with the revival of the aromatic black rice variety, Adamchini. This initiative, led by agricultural scientists at Banaras Hindu University (BHU), has recently achieved significant breakthroughs in improving the varietys resilience and productivity. The Adamchini rice, known for its sugar-crystal-like grains, pleasant aroma and superior cooking qualities, has long faced challenges due to its tall stature and slow maturation. Historically, its height, reaching up to 165 cm, made it vulnerable to lodging in adverse weather, damaging the texture and yield. Additionally, the rices long maturity period (155 days) and low yields (20-23 quintals per hectare) discouraged farmers from scaling up production, despite strong market demand, particularly from Australia and New Zealand. In response to these challenges, Professor Shravan Kumar Singh and his team at BHUs Department of Genetics and Plant Breeding have spent over 14 years researching ways to enhance Adamchini without compromising its core qualities. The breakthrough came with the use of mutagenesis, a technique that has successfully reduced the rices height, shortened its maturity period and increased its yield, all while retaining the signature aroma and grain type. The research team has developed 23 novel mutant lines of Adamchini, including varieties with a reduced height (105 cm for mutant-14), earlier maturity (120 days for mutant-19), and higher yields (30-35 quintals per hectare for mutants 14, 15, 19, and 20). These improvements have made the rice more suitable for mass production while retaining its coveted fragrance, which is said to surpass that of popular Basmati. These advancements have been particularly welcomed by farmers in the eastern foothills of the Vindhya mountain ranges, spanning districts like Chandauli, Mirzapur, Sonbhadra and parts of Varanasi. The state government has since branded Adamchini as Vindhya Black Rice.
Priyanka Chopra got a special shout-out from her husband Nick Jonas. The musical star penned a special note after the film's first look was revealed.
Gang which supplied Rs100cr codeine cough syrup busted
Actors Mahesh Babu, front, and Priyanka Chopra Jonas during the announcement of their upcoming film Varanasi in Hyderabad, Telangana, on Saturday. (PTI)
Several still trapped in Sonbhadra mine as rescue operation continues
