Centre discriminates against Himachal Pradesh as its Congress-ruled, says Priyanka
The Union government had provided no assistance despite widespread damage in recent rain-related disasters, and repeated appeals made by Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, the Congress MP said
Sonia Gandhi unveils statue of former Himachal CM Virbhadra Singh in Shimla
CHANDIGARH: Sonia Gandhi unveiled the statue of former six-time Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister, late Virbhadra Singh, today at Daulat Singh Park on the historic Ridge Ground in Shimla. Sonia Gandhi was accompanied by her daughter Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, Congress General Secretary and Member of Parliament, and paid floral tributes to the late leader after inaugurating the six-foot-tall bronze statue. The statue has been installed near the statues of YS Parmar, the first chief minister of Himachal Pradesh, Mahatma Gandhi, and former prime ministers, Indira Gandhi and Atal Bihari Vajpayee. She also visited a photo exhibition highlighting the life and legacy of Virbhadra Singh. Addressing the gathering, Priyanka described the unveiling as a proud moment for all, particularly the people of Himachal Pradesh. She recalled Virbhadra Singh as a leader whose heart always beat for the welfare of the state. Emphasizing her familys enduring bond with Himachal Pradesh, she said she not only has a home in Shimla but also shares a deep connection with the mountains. She added that only a few political leaders remain committed to the truth, as Virbhadra Singh did. Just as Mahatma Gandhi guided the nation, Virbhadra Singh guided Himachal Pradesh, she said, underlining that the essence of the Congress Partys ideology is public service, beyond social media posturing. Sonia Gandhi was accompanied by her daughter Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, Congress General Secretary and Member of Parliament, and paid floral tributes to the late leader after inaugurating the six-foot-tall bronze statue. She also highlighted that senior Congress leader Rahul Gandhi fearlessly speaks the truth, reflecting the Partys principles. Targeting the BJP-led Union Government, she said that today, the country needs a government committed to true development. She alleged discrimination against Himachal Pradesh because it is ruled by the Congress. Referring to recent disasters in the state, she noted that hundreds of families were displaced and widespread damage occurred, yet no assistance was provided by the Centre despite repeated appeals by Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu. The BJPs politics is limited only to winning elections, she said. Priyanka Gandhi praised the Chief Minister for personally supporting affected families, contrasting with the Centres focus on electoral politics over peoples welfare. Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister, Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, welcomed Sonia and Priyanka Gandhi, recalling his three decades of working alongside Virbhadra Singh in the Congress Party. He lauded Virbhadra Singh as a leader of roads, development, and public welfare. Sukhu also acknowledged the support of the Gandhi family in Himachals development, highlighting initiatives such as IIT Mandi, IIM Sirmaur, and the establishment of a central university, and noted that Priyanka Gandhis residence has boosted tourism in the state. His wife, Pratibha Singh, who is the state Congress president, and his son, Vikramaditya Singh, are the public works minister in the Himachal Pradesh Government. The statue unveiling and a rally that followed were organised by Vikramaditya Singh, who is also the chairman of the Raja Virbhadra Singh Foundation. Pratibha Singh described the unveiling as an emotional and joyous occasion, praising Chief Minister Sukhu for emulating Virbhadra Singhs simple lifestyle and dedication to public service. Deputy Chief Minister, Mukesh Agnihotri called Virbhadra Singh the architect of modern Himachal Pradesh, recalling his tireless dedication to education, womens empowerment, and public welfare. He said, besides former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, who granted statehood, the first Chief Minister, Yashwant Singh Parmar, played a pivotal role in the states formation. Virbhadra's deep emotional connection with the people and attending to their concerns till late nights, made him different. Public Works Minister Vikramaditya Singh welcomed all dignitaries, stating that the occasion reflected not just a formal ceremony but the sentiments and love of the people, and affirmed his commitment to follow his fathers ideals. He remarked that Virbhadra dedicated his life to public service and ushered in a new chapter of development in Himachal Pradesh. He praised Virbhadras commitment to fulfill the trust of the public and his remarkable contributions to employment, education, roads, and health. I strive to follow the ideals shown by my father, he added. Scion of the Rampur-Bushahr royal family, Virbhadra Singh first became chief minister on April 8, 1983, and spent the next four decades in public life, becoming the CM five more times. He died on July 18, 2021, after a prolonged illness.
Centre ignoring Cong-ruled states, Himachal didnt get adequate help for disasters: Priyanka
SHIMLA, Oct 13: Congress general secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra on Monday accused the Union Government of not providing adequate help to disaster-hit Himachal Pradesh, claiming that the Centre was ignoring states ruled by the Congress. She made the remarks during a rally that followed after a statue was of six-time Himachal Pradesh chief minister Virbhadra Singh was unveiled by senior Congress leader Sonia Gandhi at Daulat Singh Park on the historic Ridge Ground in Shimla. After Sukhvinder Sukhu became CM, [] The post Centre ignoring Cong-ruled states, Himachal didnt get adequate help for disasters: Priyanka appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Sonia Gandhi unveils statue of ex-Himachal CM Virbhadra Singh in Shimla
The six-foot-tall bronze statue is placed near statues of notable leaders such as Dr. Y.S. Parmar, the first Chief Minister of Himachal Pradesh, Mahatma Gandhi and former Prime Ministers Indira Gandhi and Atal Bihari Vajpayee
The Himachal Pradesh Board of School Education has announced the exam schedule for Classes 3, 5, and 8. These examinations for winter vacation schools will take place in December 2025. Students must reach centers by 9:45 AM. Electronic gadgets are banned. The detailed timetable is available on the official HPBOSE website for students and schools.
The Himachal Pradesh Board of School Education (HPBOSE) has released the winter school exam date sheet 202526 for Classes 3, 5, and 8. Exams will be held from November 27 to December 6, 2025, from 9:45 AM to 1:00 PM. Students can download the detailed timetable for theory and practical exams from the official website, hpbose.org
Veteran Congress leader and former Union Minister P Chidambaram on Saturday described Operation Blue Star, the 1984 Indian Army action at the Golden Temple in Amritsar to evict Sikh separatists, as the wrong way to secure the temple. He said former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, who had approved the operation, paid the price of that mistake with her life, but stressed that she should not be solely blamed as the decision was cumulative involving the Army, police, intelligence, and civil services. Chidambaram made the remarks while moderating a panel discussion on journalist Harinder Bawejas book ' They Will Shoot You, Madam' at the Khushwant Singh Literature Festival in Himachal Pradeshs Kasauli. No disrespect to any military officers present here, but that was a wrong way to retrieve the Golden Temple. A few years later, we showed the right way by keeping out the Army, he said. Blue Star was the wrong way and I agree Mrs Gandhi paid with her life for that mistake. You cannot blame it only on Mrs Gandhi. Would you? he asked. VIDEO | Senior Congress leader and former Home Minister P Chidambaram says, No disrespect to any military officers here but that (Blue Star) was a wrong way to retrieve the Golden Temple. Few years later, we showed the right way to retrieve the Golden Temple by keeping out the pic.twitter.com/ZuA87mbxYO Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) October 12, 2025 Operation Blue Star, carried out between June 1 and June 8, 1984, aimed to remove armed Khalistani separatists led by Jarnail Singh Bhindranwale from the Golden Temple complex. The operation, though successful in eliminating the militants, caused significant casualties among both soldiers and civilians and left the Akal Takht and parts of the temple complex heavily damaged. The operations aftermath had far-reaching consequences. On October 31, 1984, Indira Gandhi was assassinated by her Sikh bodyguards in New Delhi, an act widely viewed as retribution for Blue Star. Her assassination triggered widespread anti-Sikh riots across India, during which thousands of Sikhs were killed. Chidambaram also noted the current issues in Punjab, saying the Khalistan movement has largely died down and that the states economic challenges and illegal migration are the real problems today.
Dry Weather to Continue in Himachal Till October 18; Keylong Records -2.2C
Shimla, October 12 (DailyKiran) Himachal Pradesh experienced a bright and sunny Sunday, with pleasant weather prevailing across popular hill stations such as Shimla, Kufri, Manali, and Dharamshala. However, the tribal regions of the state are witnessing extreme cold, as temperatures have dipped below freezing point in several areas. According to the Meteorological Centre, Shimla, ... Read more Dry Weather to Continue in Himachal Till October 18; Keylong Records -2.2C
A father must financially support his adult son and daughter's education. The Himachal Pradesh High Court ruled in favor of the children seeking funds for their studies. The court upheld the son's right to enhanced maintenance until he completed his studies. This judgment clarifies parental obligations under Hindu law. The father cannot recover excess maintenance paid to his children.
Himachal BJP chief's bro held in rape case, party calls it 'political' plot
Himachal Pradesh BJP chief's elder brother, Ram Kumar Bindal, was arrested for allegedly raping a 25-year-old woman during a medical examination. The survivor claims she was assaulted under the guise of Ayurvedic treatment. The BJP has called the accusation a politically motivated act, while police are investigating.
Himachal BJP chief's 80-year-old brother arrested for alleged sexual assault
CHANDIGARH: The Himachal Pradesh Police have arrested 80-year-old Ram Kumar Bindal, brother of state BJP president Rajeev Bindal, for sexually assaulting a 25-year-old woman at his clinic in Solan. Sources said the woman, in her complaint, stated that on October 7, she had approached Ram Kumar an ayurvedic doctor with a clinic near the Solan bus stand for treatment of a medical condition. She alleged that during the consultation, Bindal began pressing her veins, touched her hands, and asked her about her sexual problems. When she shared her concerns, he assured her of a complete cure. Bindal then allegedly insisted on examining her private parts. When she refused, he allegedly sexually assaulted her under the pretext of a medical examination. The woman reportedly resisted, pushed him away, and fled from the spot, sources said. Solan Superintendent of Police Gaurav Singh said the woman filed a complaint at the police station on October 8. Based on her complaint, an FIR has been registered under Section 64 (punishment for rape) and Section 68 (sexual intercourse by a person in authority) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), 2023. A team from the State Forensic Science Laboratory inspected the crime scene and collected evidence. Based on the victims statement, forensic findings, and technical evidence, the police arrested Ram Kumar Bindal, a resident of Bindal Colony, Solan, he said. Meanwhile, Rajeev Bindal alleged that the case was politically motivated and part of a conspiracy. Rajeev claimed that his brother, who has grandchildren one of whom is an IPS officer is a highly respected ayurvedic doctor in the state. The allegations are deeply disturbing for our family. The police acted in haste; I fail to understand how he was arrested merely on the basis of some allegations, he said.
Uttarakhand tops Himalayan states in illegal arms cases: NCRB report
DEHRADUN: The serene image of Uttarakhand is sharply contrasted by alarming crime statistics, with the state leading Himalayan regions in cases related to illegal arms possession. A recent report from the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) for the year 2023 has brought this unsettling reality to the forefront. According to the NCRB data, a staggering 1,767 cases were registered against individuals in Uttarakhand for possessing arms in 2023. Of these seizures, 1,184 weapons were found to be illegal, while only four legal firearms were recovered in these specific registered instances. This places Uttarakhand seventh nationally in the overall count of arms possession cases. It seems that possessing firearms, both legal and illegal, is increasingly being treated as a hobby by some residents of this Himalayan state, noted a senior police official familiar with the report's findings. The trend is further complicated by the open display of weaponry. In districts like Udham Singh Nagar and Haridwar, instances of firing weapons over trivial disputes are surfacing, sometimes even being circulated on social media. Police efforts, however, are noted; in 2023 alone, authorities filed charges against 1,767 individuals under the Arms Act. Crucially, the report indicates that illegal firearms are heavily implicated in serious crimes. The majority of recovered illegal weapons were linked to violent offenses, including murders and attempts to cause grievous hurt, the report states. Beyond arms possession, the state has also seen a rise in violent crimes. Registered incidents of homicide, robbery, and kidnapping rose from 3,162 in 2021 to 3,923 in 2022, settling slightly lower at 3,570 in 2023. A significant concern remains the judicial backlog, with police filing chargesheets in only 58 percent of the 2023 cases, leaving many pending investigation closure. Udham Singh Nagar, particularly sensitive regarding crime, is reportedly a hub for this illicit trade, with police and STF units frequently busting illegal arms manufacturing units in nearby Terai forests, often sourcing supplies from neighbouring Uttar Pradesh areas. Responding to the findings, Uttarakhand Police Spokesperson Dr. Nilesh Anand Bharane affirmed a strict stance. Police action against illegal arms holders is ongoing. Miscreancy will not be tolerated in the state. Whoever the criminal, their rightful place will always be behind bars. State | Cases under Arms Act | Seized illegal firearms Himachal Pradesh | 24 | 04 Uttarakhand | 1764 | 1184 West Bengal | 1349 | 1337 Arunachal Pradesh | 15 | 10 Nagaland | 74 | 73 Manipur | 89 | 81 Mizoram | 29 | 25 Tripura | 06 | 05 Meghalaya | 09 | 06
Invasive pest threatens Himachal beekeeping industry
Himachal Pradesh's vital beekeeping sector faces a new threat with the first detection of the Small Hive Beetle in Una and Kangra districts. This invasive pest, previously found in West Bengal and Punjab, can cause complete destruction of bee colonies. Apiculturists are urged to remain vigilant and implement preventive measures to protect the state's significant honey production.
Major avalanche hit Himachal Pradesh's Dharamsala, watch video
A massive avalanche hit the snow-covered Dhauladhar Hills in Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh, early Friday. A video of the incident captured by PTI news agency is now going viral which shows a large chunk of snow cascading down the mountains.
Delhi Announce Badoni-led 24-member Ranji Trophy Squad, Nitish Rana Included
DDCA Secretary Ashok Sharma: The Delhi and District Cricket Association (DDCA) on Friday has announced a 24-member squad for the upcoming Ranji Trophy season, with Ayush Badoni appointed captain and Yash Dhull named vice-captain. Delhi will begin their 2025/26 campaign with an away fixture against Hyderabad on October 15, before returning to host Himachal Pradesh at the Arun Jaitley Stadium on October 25. Badoni is back to being Delhis skipper after having a stint with India A team during the red-ball games against Australia A in Lucknow. The selection meeting was attended by Yashpal Singh, KP Bhaskar, Manu Nayyar, chief coach Sarandeep Singh, CAC member Surinder Khanna, DDCA Secretary Ashok Sharma, and Joint Secretary Amit Grover. Other notable names in the squad include Priyansh Arya, Anuj Rawat, Navdeep Saini, Simarjeet Singh and Hrithik Shokeen. The squad also features senior left-handed batter Nitish Rana, who is back in the set-up after representing Uttar Pradesh as a professional player. His selection is an intriguing one as Rana never got going with the red-ball for Uttar Pradesh in last two domestic seasons and has runs only on the back of this years Delhi Premier League (DPL). There is no mention of India wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant in Delhis squad, but theres an expectation that he will be ready to play once gaining full fitness after completing his rehab at the BCCI Centre of Excellence (CoE) in Bengaluru, where hes been based from since mid-September. Pant has been recovering from a fractured right foot sustained during the fourth Test against England at Manchester in July and the long recovery from it has meant that hes missed out on the ongoing Tests against the West Indies and upcoming white-ball tour of Australia. IANS had previously reported that Pant could be back in action for Delhis home game against Himachal Pradesh. This agency also understands that Pant could even be handed captaincy if hes included in Delhis squad for the premier red-ball competition after getting fitness clearance. Pant has been recovering from a fractured right foot sustained during the fourth Test against England at Manchester in July and the long recovery from it has meant that hes missed out on the ongoing Tests against the West Indies and upcoming white-ball tour of Australia. Also Read: LIVE Cricket Score Delhi squad: Ayush Badoni (captain), Yash Dhull (vice-captain), Arpit Rana, Sanat Sangwan, Anuj Rawat (wk), Sumit Mathur, Shivam Sharma, Rounak Waghela, Navdeep Saini, Simarjeet Singh, Money Grewal, Siddhant Sharma, Dhruv Kaushik, Pranav Rajvanshi (wk), Nitish Rana, Himmat Singh, Ayush Doseja, Rahul Dagar, Hrithik Shokeen, Priyansh Arya, Tejasvi (wk), Vaibhav Kandpal, Rohan Rana and Aryan Rana (Subject to fitness) Article Source: IANS
World University Rank 2026: IISc Bangalore rated best in country
NEW DELHI: Next to the United States, India has the highest number of educational institutions figuring in the Times Higher Education (THE) World University Rankings 2026. A total of 128 institutes from India have made it to the rankings, with the Indian Institute of Science (IISc) Bangalore rated the best in the country and categorised in the 201-250 rank band. For the tenth consecutive year, the University of Oxford was rated the best in the world, the rankings state. A total of 2,191 institutions across 115 countries were assessed for this 22nd edition of these rankings. In a statement, THE said, India now has the second highest number of ranked universities, behind only the US. The US has 171 institutions, making it the No. 1 country in the rankings, while Japan stands third with 115 institutions figuring here. The Indian institution which figures next to IISc Bangalore is Chennais Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences, which was classified in the 351-400 band. Two universities are in the 401-500 band Delhis Jamia Millia Islamia University and Himachal Pradeshs Shoolini University of Biotechnology and Management Sciences. The institutes falling in the 501-600 rank band are Banaras Hindu University, IIT Indore, Bhubaneswars KIIT University, Lovely Professional University, Kottayams Mahatma Gandhi University, and Dehraduns UPES. The rankings also listed these universities in the 601-800 rank band IIT Patna, IIIT Hyderabad, Amity University, Noida, Bharathiar University, Coimbatore, Central University of Punjab, Aligarh Muslim University, Graphic Era University in Dehradun, Chitkara University in Chandigarh, NIT Rourkela, Punjab University, University of Delhi and VIT University. The universities that have made it to the top ten ranks globally are Massachusetts Institute of Technology, United States (2); Princeton University, US, and University of Cambridge, UK (jointly ranked 3); Harvard University and Stanford University (5th rank jointly); California Institute of Technology, US (7); Imperial College London, UK (8); University of California, US (9); and Yale University, US (10). When compared among Asian countries alone for the top slots, China leads the rankings.
Rahul Sahai represents J&K at IETF in Czech Republic
Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Oct 9: Rahul Sahai, Chairman of the Indian Chamber of Commerce (ICC) Jammu & Kashmir, today represented the UT as part of the official Indian delegation at the 66th MSV International Engineering Trade Fair (IETF) held in Brno, Czech Republic. IETF is one of Europes most prestigious exhibitions showcasing global advancements in engineering, automation and manufacturing. Sahai participated as an official guest from India, joining a distinguished business delegation comprising industry leaders from Punjab, Himachal Pradesh, Haryana, [] The post Rahul Sahai represents J&K at IETF in Czech Republic appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Over 4 lakh cases pending in information commissions across India
As the Right to Information Act nears its 20th anniversary, a new report reveals over 4 lakh cases are pending in information commissions nationwide. Six commissions have been defunct, with Jharkhand and Himachal Pradesh still non-operational. Some states face decades-long backlogs, and key leadership positions remain vacant, raising concerns about transparency.
Video: Boulder Comes Crashing Down On Moving Car In Himachal
A massive boulder came crashing down on a moving car in Himachal Pradesh, and the terrifying scene was captured in its dashcam. The chilling scene unfolded at Nathpa Point in Kinnaur.
Bank holiday Tomorrow for Karwa Chauth: Are banks open or closed on October 10, 2025? Check Here
Bank Holidays 2025: Banks will be closed in Himachal Pradesh on October 10, 2025, for Karva Chauth, a Hindu festival observed by married women. While this specific holiday impacts banks in one state, other banks nationwide will operate normally. October features numerous bank holidays due to various festivals across India.
Severe weather disruptions, including heavy rainfall, landslides, and thunderstorms, have led to unexpected school closures across India in October 2025. States like West Bengal, Karnataka, Himachal Pradesh, and Jammu have declared holidays, with conditions continuing to affect school reopening.
Himachal CM give pre-Diwali gift to state govt employees, announces hike in wages, honorarium
Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister announced wage and honorarium hikes for state government employees ahead of Diwali. Mid-Day Meal Workers, school management teachers, and stitching instructors will receive an additional Rs 500 monthly. Daily wagers and part-time workers saw a Rs 25 daily increase, while representatives of Panchayati Raj Institutions and Urban Local Bodies also received significant honorarium boosts.
A Redditors post showcasing the snowcapped beauty of his hometown, Bandi Khas in Himachal Pradesh, went viral on r/Indian_flex. While netizens admired the scenic landscapes, the OP highlighted daily challenges, including long walks for essentials, wet monsoons, and harsh winters. Rent in the village is typically under 12,000 rupees. The post underscores that while Bandi Khas offers serenity and charm, even idyllic locations come with practical difficulties and hidden realities.
Police bust gang that hacked mobile phones to commit fraudulent online purchases
Eight people have been arrested by Bhayandar Police for committing large-scale online frauds by hacking mobile phones using fake applications, officials said. The accused obtained OTPs and sensitive bank details from unsuspecting citizens after infecting their phones through fraudulent links. They then used these details to purchase expensive mobile phones through Flipkart and later sold the phones to other people, said an official release. Police began investigating the case in September after officers Sanjay Shipane and Ravindra Wagh found Rinkukumar Shriramjilal Bairwa from Rajasthan in possession of 11 high-end mobile phones under suspicious circumstances. Bairwa had allegedly hacked some people's bank accounts and purchased mobile phones worth Rs 4.77 lakh on Flipkart. Delhi cops nab gang for duping people through mule accounts, crypto wallets A case was registered against Bairwa after a complaint was filed by InstaKart Services Pvt Ltd. Investigation later revealed that Bairwa was part of an inter-state gang which hacked phones using phishing links and enabling features such as call and SMS forwarding, UPI PIN grabbing and Gmail access, the release said. Acting on intelligence, police arrested six persons from Delhi, Himachal Pradesh, Rajasthan, Navi Mumbai and Bhiwandi, and later caught main accused Hardy alias Prince Kamlesh Sajnani in Chhattisgarh on October 6. Police also seized 107 high-end mobile phones from their possession. Further probe is underway, the release said. (With inputs from PTI) Caught in a virtual web: The rise of 'digital arrest' scams in India
Punjabi artist Rajvir Jawanda has died at 35. He succumbed to injuries sustained in a road accident in Himachal Pradesh. Jawanda had been on life support for nearly 11 days. His family received support from industry friends for medical expenses. Jawanda was known for his music and film roles. His passing leaves a void in the Punjabi entertainment world.
Himachal Pradesh: Bilaspur landslide kills 15, search ongoing for missing child
A landslide in Bilaspur, Himachal Pradesh, struck a private bus, killing 15 people. Two children were rescued, while search continues for an eight-year-old boy amid heavy rains. NDRF, police, and local teams are conducting rescue operations and clearing debris
Rajvir Jawanda's bike price: Punjabi singer and actor Rajvir Jawanda tragically passed away at 35 after a severe bike accident in Himachal Pradesh. He was riding a high-performance BMW R1250 GS Adventure motorcycle worth over Rs 22 lakh when the crash occurred. Jawanda had been on life support for over 11 days following the incident.
Punjabi singer Rajvir Jawanda dies after battling for 12 days following road accident
CHANDIGARH : Punjabi singer Rajvir Jawanda, 35, passed away on Tuesday after battling for life for the past 12 days at Fortis Hospital in Mohali. He had suffered severe head and spinal injuries in a road accident near Baddi, Himachal Pradesh, when his motorcycle collided with stray cattle that suddenly appeared on the road. Jawanda was reportedly on a biking trip to Shimla with his friends at the time of the mishap. A native of Pona village near Jagraon in Ludhiana district, Jawanda was residing in Sector 71, Mohali. He rose to fame with his hit songs Kali Jawande Di, Tu Dis Penda, Khush Reha Kar, Surname, Kamla, Mera Dil, and Sardari. He also made his mark in Punjabi cinema, appearing in films such as Subedar Joginder Singh (2018), Jind Jaan (2019), and Mindo Taseeldarni (2019). Beginning his musical journey in 2014 with the single Munda Like Me , Jawanda quickly earned a loyal fan base for his heartfelt lyrics and distinctive voice. He was known among fans for songs rooted in Punjabs culture and clean entertainment. Jawanda is survived by his wife and two young children. According to doctors, Jawandas neurological condition had remained critical, with minimal brain activity and no significant improvement despite intensive medical care. His condition was described as extremely critical soon after the accident, and he had been on life support since admission. The news of his untimely demise has left fans and the Punjabi entertainment industry in deep shock and mourning. For the past several days, Jawandas friends, fans, and relatives had been praying for his recovery and performed ardas (prayer) for his well-being at gurdwaras across Punjab. Paying his condolences, Leader of Opposition and senior Congress leader Partap Singh Bajwa wrote on X, Heartbreaking to hear about the untimely passing of Rajvir Jawanda. After days of brave struggle, he left us too soon. Your soulful voice and vibrant spirit will echo in our hearts forever. Rest in eternal peace, Rajvir. Punjab Congress chief Amarinder Singh Warring also expressed his grief on X, writing, Saddened by the passing away of Rajvir Jawanda ji. We all prayed for his speedy recovery but sadly God had other plans. My heart goes out to his family, friends and fans who are shattered with this tragic loss. May Waheguru grant eternal peace to the departed soul and give strength to his loved ones to bear this tragic loss. RIP. Senior AAP leader and Punjab in-charge Manish Sisodia, in a post on X, wrote, Deeply saddened by the untimely passing of Rajvir Jawanda. Gone too soon, but his soulful voice will live on in every heartbeat of Punjab. My heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, and millions of fans. May Waheguru bless his soul with eternal peace.
Who was Rajvir Jawanda? Know about his top songs, films, family, net worth and more
Punjabi singer and actor Rajvir Jawanda has died at the age of 35. He suffered severe injuries in a road accident in Himachal Pradesh eleven days prior. Jawanda was known for hit songs like Sardaari and Kangani. He also acted in Punjabi films. He leaves behind his wife and two children.
Punjabi singer and actor Rajvir Jawanda, 35, has passed away after a 11-day battle following a severe road accident in Himachal Pradesh. Critically injured on September 27 in a motorcycle crash, he sustained grave head and spine injuries.
Punjabi artist Rajvir Jawanda, 35, has passed away after a severe motorcycle accident in Himachal Pradesh. He succumbed to his injuries after a fortnight-long battle at a Mohali hospital. Jawanda was known for his hit songs and roles in Punjabi films, leaving the industry and fans in deep mourning.
Punjabi singer Rajvir Jawanda is critically injured and on life support following a motorcycle accident in Himachal Pradesh. He sustained severe head and spine injuries and is receiving intensive care. Punjab CM Bhagwant Mann visited the hospital, and the entertainment community and fans are offering prayers and support for his recovery.
Himachal landslide: Death toll rises to 16 as rescue teams search for survivors of buried bus
The death toll in Himachal Pradesh's Bilaspur district rose to 16 after the body of a child was recovered on Wednesday morning from the debris of a massive landslide that buried a private bus on Tuesday evening , officials said. Bilaspur SP Sandeep Dhawal told PTI , The death toll has increased to 16 with the recovery of one more body today. The bus, carrying around 25 passengers, was crushed under a collapsing mountainside in the Bhalughat area, following two days of relentless rain that destabilized the hillside. Several passengers are still feared trapped with officials warning that survival chances are fading. Rescue efforts, which were suspended late Tuesday night due to poor visibility and continued mudslides, resumed at daybreak. Two National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) teams, along with police, fire personnel, home guards, and local volunteers, are working through the debris. Dog squads have also been deployed to assist in locating the missing, while heavy machinery is being used to shift large boulders. So far, 15 bodies have been recovered. The victims include four members of a family who were returning from a function, two women and two children. Two surviving children, Arushi and Shaurya, were rescued and treated at AIIMS Bilaspur before being sent home. Family members of victims outside a hospital after a massive landslide hit a private bus, in Bilaspur district of Himachal Pradesh, Wednesday, Oct. 8, 2025. Deputy Chief Minister Mukesh Agnihotri visited the site and confirmed that post-mortems are being conducted at Berthin Hospital, with the bodies expected to be handed over to families by late Wednesday morning. He also ordered a magisterial inquiry into the incident. There is a need to re-evaluate our development model, he said, noting that the state has suffered losses worth Rs 20,000 crore due to natural calamities since 2023. (With inputs from PTI)
Himachal landslide: Rescue operations resume as teams search for survivors of buried bus
Search and rescue operations resumed early Wednesday morning in Himachal Pradeshs Bilaspur district, where a massive landslide buried a moving bus on Tuesday evening, killing at least 15 people. The bus, carrying around 25 passengers, was crushed under a collapsing mountainside in the Bhalughat area, following two days of relentless rain that destabilized the hillside. Several passengers are still feared trapped, including a child, with officials warning that survival chances are fading. Rescue efforts, which were suspended late Tuesday night due to poor visibility and continued mudslides, resumed at daybreak. Two National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) teams, along with police, fire personnel, home guards, and local volunteers, are working through the debris. Dog squads have also been deployed to assist in locating the missing, while heavy machinery is being used to shift large boulders. So far, 15 bodies have been recovered. The victims include four members of a family who were returning from a function, two women and two children. Two surviving children, Arushi and Shaurya, were rescued and treated at AIIMS Bilaspur before being sent home. : Family members of victims outside a hospital after a massive landslide hit a private bus, in Bilaspur district of Himachal Pradesh, Wednesday, Oct. 8, 2025. Deputy Chief Minister Mukesh Agnihotri visited the site and confirmed that post-mortems are being conducted at Berthin Hospital, with the bodies expected to be handed over to families by late Wednesday morning. He also ordered a magisterial inquiry into the incident. There is a need to re-evaluate our development model, he said, noting that the state has suffered losses worth Rs 20,000 crore due to natural calamities since 2023. (With inputs from PTI)
Bilaspur Landslide: Rescue Teams Push Through Debris Of Buried Bus; Death Toll 15
Shimla, Oct 8: Search and rescue operations to trace people buried under debris in Himachal Pradeshs Bilaspur, where a landslide hit a moving bus on Tuesday evening, resumed on Wednesday morning, officials said. At least 15 passengers died while a few others, including a child, are feared trapped in the rubble after a huge portion of a mountain gave way and fell on the bus carrying about 25 passengers in the Bhalughat area near Berthin around 6.40 pm on Tuesday. [] The post Bilaspur Landslide: Rescue Teams Push Through Debris Of Buried Bus; Death Toll 15 appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
At least 15 people were killed and several others are feared trapped after a landslide hit a private bus in Bilaspur, Himachal Pradesh. Rescue operations are underway as officials race against time amid heavy rain.
ED raids Malayalam film stars in luxury car smuggling probe
The Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Wednesday conducted raids at 17 locations across Kerala and Tamil Nadu, targeting a suspected luxury car smuggling racket linked to violations under the Foreign Exchange Management Act (FEMA). Prominent Malayalam actors Prithviraj Sukumaran, Dulquer Salmaan, and Amit Chakkalackal are among those whose premises were searched. The raids, spanning Ernakulam, Thrissur, Kozhikode, Malappuram, Kottayam, and Coimbatore, also targeted vehicle owners, auto workshops, and dealers allegedly involved in importing high-end cars like Land Cruisers, Defenders, and Maseratis through illegal channels from Bhutan and Nepal. According to officials, a Coimbatore-based network forged documents purportedly from the Indian Army, US Embassy, and Ministry of External Affairs to fraudulently register vehicles in states such as Arunachal Pradesh and Himachal Pradesh. These cars were then sold at undervalued rates to high-net-worth individuals, including film personalities. North Keralas love affair with luxury, vintage cars faces harsh reality check The ED suspects prima facie violations of FEMA Sections 3, 4, and 8, involving illegal foreign exchange transactions and hawala payments. The case stems from a recent Customs investigation, which also uncovered possible links to gold and drug smuggling. On September 23, as part of Operation Numkhor, Customs officials seized 36 luxury vehicles from around 30 locations, including the residences of the three actors. In a related development, the Kerala High Court on Tuesday allowed Dulquer Salmaan to apply for the provisional release of his seized vehicle. In his plea, Salmaan claimed he purchased the car in good faith, with documents indicating it was shipped by the International Committee of the Red Cross to New Delhi. He alleged Customs officials seized the vehicle without properly reviewing its documentation. (With inputs from PTI)
ED raids prominent actors, agents in Kerala luxury cars smuggling case
KOCHI: The ED on Wednesday raided premises linked to actors Prithviraj, Dulquer Salman and Amit Chakkalackal and some others across Kerala as part of its investigation into a recent Customs case related to alleged smuggling of luxury vehicles from Bhutan to India, official sources said. The searches by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) also covered certain vehicle owners, auto workshops, and traders in Ernakulam, Thrissur, Kozhikode, Malappuram, Kottayam and Coimbatore. A total of 17 premises are being covered, the sources said. The action is being taken under the Foreign Exchange Management Act (FEMA) in a recent case unearthed by the Customs related to alleged smuggling of high-end luxury vehicles and unauthorised foreign exchange dealings. North Keralas love affair with luxury, vintage cars faces harsh reality check The searches are based on inputs exposing a syndicate engaged in illegal import and registration of luxury cars such as Land Cruiser, Defender, and Maserati through the India-Bhutan/Nepal routes, they said. Preliminary findings, according to the officials, point at a Coimbatore-based network using forged documents (purporting to be from Indian Army, US Embassy, and MEA) and fraudulent RTO registrations in Arunachal Pradesh, Himachal Pradesh, and other states. The vehicles were later sold to high-net worth (HNI) individuals, including film personalities, at undervalued prices, they said.
Bilaspur SP Sandeep Dhawal said local residents assisted in saving the two children and confirmed that rescue operations are ongoing to locate an eight-year-old boy.
Himachal tragedy: 18 dead as landslide strikes bus in Bilaspur; many missing
A devastating landslide in Himachal Pradesh's Bilaspur district crushed a private bus, killing at least 18 passengers and leaving many missing. Local residents bravely initiated rescue efforts before authorities arrived, with four survivors, including three children, pulled from the debris. Heavy rainfall is believed to have triggered the tragic incident.
18 Killed as landslide hits bus in Himachals Bilaspur
Shimla, Oct 7: At least 18 passengers were killed while three were rescued as a private bus they were travelling in was struck by a massive landslide in Himachal Pradeshs Bilaspur district on Tuesday evening, officials said. The accident took place in Bhalughat area in Jhandutta assembly segment around 6:30 pm, they said, adding the [] The post 18 Killed as landslide hits bus in Himachals Bilaspur appeared first on Northlines .
18 killed as landslide hits bus in Himachal's Bilaspur; rescue operation on
A devastating landslide struck a private bus in Himachal Pradesh's Bilaspur district on Tuesday evening. The accident occurred in the Bhalughat area, burying the bus under a massive mountain collapse. At least 18 passengers lost their lives. Three individuals were rescued and have been hospitalized. Rescue operations are ongoing. The incident happened as the bus traveled from Marotan to Ghumarwin.
18 Killed as Landslide Strikes Bus in Himachal
SRINAGAR: At least 18 people were killed when boulders struck a private bus during heavy rains that triggered a landslide in Bilaspur district of Himachal Pradesh, on Tuesday evening, according to Hindustan Times. The bus, carrying an estimated 28 to 30 passengers, was travelling from Marottan to Ghumariwin when a portion of a mountain collapsed []
15 Killed After Bus Hit By Landslide In Himachal's Bilaspur District
At least 10 people were killed after a bus was buried under the debris of a massive landslide triggered in Himachal Pradesh's Bilaspur district late Tuesday evening.
At least 18 people were killed and several others remain trapped under the debris after a massive landslide hit a private bus in Himachal Pradeshs Bilaspur district on Tuesday evening, PTI reported citing officials. The bus, carrying 30-35 passengers, was on its way from Marotan to Ghumarwin when the accident happened in the Bhalughat area in the Jhandutta assembly segment. Officials said 18 bodies have been recovered from the debris so far, while three people have been rescued and shifted to the hospital. Police and district administration officials are at the spot and rescue operations are going on in full swing, the officials said. A policeman engaged in the rescue operation said the chances of survival of the passengers are bleak as a whole mountain came crashing down on the bus. Intermittent rains have been lashing the area since Monday. Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu and Deputy CM Mukesh Agnihotri have expressed grief over the accident. The news of the devastating landslide near Balughat (Bhalla Bridge) in the Jhanduta Assembly constituency of Bilaspur district has shaken me to the core, the CM said in a post on X. He added that rescue operations are ongoing at a war footing. Instructions have been given to the authorities to deploy their full machinery. I am in touch with the local administration and am continuously receiving moment-by-moment updates on the entire rescue operation, he said. Prime Minister Narendra Modi also expressed grief over the loss of lives and announced an ex-gratia relief of Rs 1 lakh to the next of kin of each deceased. Saddened by the loss of lives due to a mishap in Bilaspur, Himachal Pradesh. My thoughts are with the affected people and their families during this difficult time. Praying for the speedy recovery of the injured, a PMO statement said. An ex-gratia of Rs 2 lakh from PMNRF would be given to the next of kin of each deceased. The injured would be given Rs 50,000, it said. (This is a developing story)
15 killed as landslide hits bus in Himachal; rescue operation underway
Shimla: At least 15 passengers were killed as a private bus they were travelling in was struck by a massive landslide in Himachal Pradeshs Bilaspur district on Tuesday evening, officials said. The accident took place in Bhalughat area in Jhandutta assembly segment, they said, adding the bus carrying 30-35 passengers was on its way from 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 .
Bilaspur: 15 killed after bus hit by landslide in Himachal Pradesh
The bus, carrying around 30 passengers, was on its way from Rohtak in Haryana to Ghumarwin near Bilaspur when the incident occurred. It met with the deadly accident in the Bhalughat area. Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu has expressed grief over the tragedy. Read on for more.
15 Killed As Landslide Hits Bus In Himachals Bilaspur; Rescue Operation Underway
Shimla, Oct 7: At least 15 passengers were killed as a private bus they were travelling in was struck by a massive landslide in Himachal Pradeshs Bilaspur district on Tuesday evening, officials said. The accident took place in Bhalughat area in Jhandutta assembly segment, they said, adding the bus carrying 30-35 passengers was on its way from Haryanas Rohtak to Ghumarwin. Police and district administration officials are at the spot and rescue operations are going on in full swing, the [] The post 15 Killed As Landslide Hits Bus In Himachals Bilaspur; Rescue Operation Underway appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
At Least 15 Dead After Bus Buried In Landslide Debris In Himachal's Bilaspur
At least 15 people have died after a massive landslide struck Himachal Pradeshs Bilaspur district on Tuesday, burying a private bus under a large amount of mud
Himachal Police book unknown people for sloganeering against CM Sukhu in Darlaghat
CHANDIGARH: Following a sloganeering incident at a recent event attended by Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu during his visit to Darlaghat in Solan district, the Police have registered a case against an unknown person. On October 4, a case was registered at Darlaghat police station under Sections 353(2) and 3(5) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), which pertain to making or circulating statements, false information, or rumours with the intent to promote enmity, hatred, or ill will among different groups based on religion, community, or other grounds. A local, Basant Lal of Baraily village, tehsil Akri, had lodged a complaint with the police alleging that when he went to have his lunch, he saw several girl students raising slogans against CM Sukhu. In the complaint, he further alleged that the act was deliberate and aimed at inciting regional hatred and enmity. On Saturday, CM Sukhu was in the area to inaugurate various animal husbandry schemes. A section of the crowd, reportedly disgruntled over lunch arrangements, was heard chanting,Sukhu ne bulaya hai, bhukhe hi tarpaya hai (Sukhu called us, only to leave us hungry). A video of the incident has gone viral on social media. Police officials said that a 'common intention' was established and further investigation is underway. A police official said that a case was registered following the incident. Reportedly, a few functionaries of the Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP) from Government College Darlaghat created a disturbance at the venue. The students involved were neither invited nor were official participants of the event, and their presence was part of a deliberate attempt to disrupt proceedings. Meanwhile, the college authorities claimed that four students from the Scouts and Guides unit had been formally invited by the Animal Husbandry Department to welcome the Chief Minister, said sources.
Cough syrup deaths: Punjab and HP governments ban Coldrif
CHANDIGARH: Punjab and Himachal Pradesh governments have banned the sale, distribution and use of Coldrif cough syrup, following the deaths of 14 children due to suspected renal failure in Madhya Pradesh after its consumption. The syrup, Batch No. SR-13, manufactured in May 2025 by Sresan Pharma, Sunguvarchathiram, Kancheepuram District, Tamil Nadu, isallegedly adulterated with Diethylene Glycol (DEG), a highly poisonous substance. An order issued by the Punjab Food and Drugs Administration (FDA), read, it has come to the notice of this office that Coldrif syrup has been declared as not of standard quality by the government analyst, drugs testing laboratory, and FDA, Madhya Pradesh. The drug formulation is reported to be adulterated, as it contains Diethylene Glycol (46.28 per cent w/v), which makes it injurious to health, considering the seriousness of the matter. The said product has been observed to be linked to the recent deaths of children in the Chhindwara district, Madhya Pradesh. The above-mentioned product is hereby completely prohibited for sale, distribution and utilisation in the state of Punjab with immediate effect in public interest. Karnataka bars cough, cold syrups to children under two The order stated that all retailers, distributors, registered medical practitioners and hospitals and healthcare institutions, etc., in Punjab shall not purchase, sell or utilise the said product. If any stock of the drug is available in the State, the information may be provided to the FDA (drugs wing), it added. Meanwhile, the Coldrif cough syrup has been completely banned in Himachal Pradesh. The Nastro-DS, a cough syrup manufactured in Himachal Pradesh has given a clean chit by the Madhya Pradesh food and drugs administration (FDA) but its production is suspended as of now, and placed under scrutiny following the death of children. Following the request from Madhya Pradesh government for an investigation into Nastro-DS, a team from the state drug controller recently inspected the premises of five drug companies, including Aqunova Pharma, which supplied cough syrups to Madhya Pradesh. The Madhya Pradesh FDA collected samples of Nastro-DS last week. It was manufactured by Aqunova Pharma, a pharmaceutical unit based in Baddi in the Solan district of Himachal Pradesh. Himachal Pradesh Drug Controller Dr Manish Kapoor, said that Coldrif cough syrup has been completely banned in the State. The laboratory tests have revealed a high concentration of DEG in the Coldrif cough syrup samples. The state drug controller administration has issued a prohibitory order on the sale and purchase of Coldrif. If anyone finds out about the availability of this syrup, they should immediately inform the office of the drug controller, he said. PIL in Supreme Court seeks CBI probe, national drug safety review over cough syrup deaths The FDA of Madhya Pradesh told that Nastro-DS was safe for consumption. The lab analysis of Nastro-DS cough syrup samples has shown the presence of diethylene glycol (DEG) within permissible limits. The Madhya Pradesh FDA has communicated to us the test results. Aqunova Pharma voluntarily decided to put on hold the production of Nastro-DS cough syrup after the Madhya Pradesh FDA took the samples. The company might resume production only after the FDA officially communicates the test results to them. As of now, the production is suspended, he said. The Himachal Pradesh government also directed the drug inspectors to draw samples of all cough syrups using propylene glycol manufactured in the State from the manufacturing premises as well as retail sellers and wholesalers on a monthly basis for laboratory analysis. This will help rule out the manufacture and sale of syrups containing toxic impurities and ensure the sale of quality syrups. Also, the government prohibited the sale, distribution and utilisation of two more cough syrups Respifresh TR and Relife, after being found to contain toxic impurity DEG above the permissible limit. Diethylene glycol is a toxic chemical, and its consumption can cause kidney, liver, and nervous system damage. The tragic deaths triggered a national health alert, leading to suspensions of officials in Madhya Pradesh, multiple arrests, nationwide stock confiscations, and immediate, stringent changes to drug prescription guidelines in states like Kerala and Karnataka. Cough syrup deaths: IMA slams MP doctors arrest, says onus on manufacturers and authorities
As winter knocks early in the North, will India shiver through a colder-than-usual season this year?
Early snowfall has transformed Himalayan hill stations like Gulmarg and parts of Himachal Pradesh into winter wonderlands, delighting tourists and signaling the arrival of a chilly season. Meteorologists predict a colder-than-usual winter for North India, potentially influenced by developing La Nia conditions, though climate change may temper the cooling effects.
Showers drench north India, fresh snowfall in J-K; toll in north Bengal landslides rises to 28
NEW DELHI, Oct 6: Rain lashed parts of Delhi, Haryana, Punjab, and Rajasthan, while fresh snowfall was reported in the higher reaches of Himachal Pradesh and Jammu and Kashmir, causing the mercury to drop in several northern states on Monday. In West Bengal, the death toll in Darjeeling landslides rose to 28 on Monday with six people still missing, as rescue teams battled rising waters across the hills. The disaster has also ignited a fierce political confrontation between the ruling [] The post Showers drench north India, fresh snowfall in J-K; toll in north Bengal landslides rises to 28 appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Father Cant Demand Refund Of Maintenance Paid Beyond Childrens Majority: Himachal Pradesh HC
The division bench of Justices Vivek Singh Thakur and Sushil Kukreja observed that while the law may not compel such payments, moral obligation does.
Fresh snowfall in higher reaches of Himachal Pradesh
Gondhla and Keylong in Lahaul and Spiti district received 5 cm and 4 cm of snow respectively, officials said
Fresh Snowfall In Higher Reaches Of Himachal
Shimla, Oct 6: The higher reaches of Himachal Pradesh received snowfall for the second day on Monday, leading to a dip in the minimum temperature. Gondhla and Keylong in Lahaul and Spiti district received 5 cm and 4 cm of snow respectively, officials said. Intermittent rains lashed parts of the state and Guler received 42 mm of rain since Sunday evening followed by Nagrota Suriyan 38.4 mm, Bharwain 37 mm, Dehra Gopipur 35 mm, Pachhad 34.2 mm, Aghar 32.8 mm, [] The post Fresh Snowfall In Higher Reaches Of Himachal appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Himachal welcomes seasons first snowfall
CHANDIGARH: The higher reaches of Himachal Pradesh, including Rohtang Pass and Dhauladhar ranges, received the seasons first snowfall on Sunday morning, leading to a drop in the minimum temperature. The Kullu district administration has suspended vehicular traffic to Rohtang Pass and advised commuters not to venture through this highway. A fresh spell of mild snowfall on the Dhauladhar ranges and overnight rainfall in parts of Kangra and Chamba districts brought a dip in temperatures across several hill towns of the hill state ushering in early winter-like conditions. As Dharamsala, McLeodganj, Kangra, Palampur, Dalhousie, Chamba and Bharmour witnessed a significant change in weather, with a sudden chill replacing the warm sunshine of the past few days. Intermittent showers continued through the morning in several parts of the region, leading to the formation of dense fog that blanketed the upper reaches of the mountains. Strong icy winds swept the higher and mid hills of the state followed by severe thunderstorm, lightning and intermittent rains. Also, there were reports of uprooting of trees due to storm and heavy downpour from several parts of the state. According to the Meteorological Department, Dharamsala and its twin town McLeodganj recorded 25.5 mm of rainfall during the night, while Palampur received 10.2 mm, Kangra 18.4 mm and Chamba 4 mm, Brahmani 26.4, Nangal Dam 23 mm, Malraon 22, Bilaspur 20.4 mm and Nainadevi 18.1 mm. Thunderstorm was witnessed in Kufri, Jot, Murari devi, Sundernagar, Bhunter, Kangra and Shimla while gusty winds with velocity of 30 to 61 Kmph lashed Reckongpeo, Tabo, Bilaspur, Hamirpur, Sundernagar and Kukumseri. The minimum temperatures dropped by one to three degrees across HP and Tabo was coldest with a low of 3.1 degrees, followed by Keylong 3.6 degrees, Kalpa and Kukumseri 6.2 degrees and Kufri and Narkanda 10 degrees each. An orange alert has been issued warning of hail, heavy to very rain, thunderstorm, lightning and gusty winds with speeds ranging from 40 to 50 kmph at isolated places in six districts of Chamba, Kangra, Kullu, Mandi, Sirmaur, and Lahaul and Spiti districts on October 6.
Himachal govt to organise special overseas recruitment drive on October 9
The Himachal Pradesh government will organise a special overseas recruitment drive in Hamirpur on October 9. This initiative, led by Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, aims to provide international job opportunities to the state's youth in both technical and non-technical sectors. An MEA-registered agency will ensure a transparent selection process, with further details to be released soon.
Himachal Pradesh sees fresh snowfall and thunderstorms
CHANDIGARH: The high-altitude areas of Himachal Pradesh, including Rohtang Pass and the Dhauladhar ranges, received fresh snowfall on Sunday morning, bringing down the minimum temperature. The Kullu district administration has suspended vehicular traffic to Rohtang Pass and urged commuters to avoid using the highway. A fresh spell of mild snowfall over the Dhauladhar ranges, along with overnight rainfall in parts of Kangra and Chamba districts, has led to a drop in temperatures across several hill towns, ushering in early winter-like conditions. Dharamshala, McLeodganj, Kangra, Palampur, Dalhousie, Chamba, and Bharmour experienced a sudden change in weather, with a sharp chill replacing the warm sunshine of the past few days. Intermittent showers continued through the morning in many parts of the region, causing thick fog to cover the higher mountain areas. Strong winds swept the higher and mid hills of the state, accompanied by thunderstorms, lightning, and intermittent rain. Several reports also came in of trees being uprooted due to the storm and heavy rainfall across the state. According to the Meteorological Department, Dharamshala and its twin town McLeodganj recorded 25.5 mm of rainfall during the night, while Palampur received 10.2 mm, Kangra 18.4 mm and Chamba 4 mm, Brahmani 26.4, Nangal Dam 23 mm, Malraon 22, Bilaspur 20.4 mm and Nainadevi 18.1 mm. Thunderstorm was witnessed in Kufri, Jot, Murari devi, Sundernagar, Bhunter, Kangra and Shimla while gusty winds with velocity of 30 to 61 kmph lashed Reckongpeo, Tabo, Bilaspur, Hamirpur, Sundernagar and Kukumseri. Minimum temperatures fell by one to three degrees across the state. Tabo was the coldest at 3.1 degrees Celsius, followed by Keylong at 3.6 degrees Celsius. Kalpa and Kukumseri recorded 6.2 degrees Celsius each, while Kufri and Narkanda saw 10 degrees Celsius. The weather office has issued an orange alert for October 6, warning of hail, heavy to very heavy rain, thunderstorms, lightning, and gusty winds of 40 to 50 kmph in isolated areas across six districts: Chamba, Kangra, Kullu, Mandi, Sirmaur, and Lahaul and Spiti. Tourist inflow has increased following the withdrawal of the monsoon, which had caused havoc in the state, resulting in losses of over Rs 4,800 crore. Shimla saw a rise in visitors, with a large number of foreign tourists spotted in the city.
Himachal Pradesh to procure naturally grown barley from Pangi at Rs 60 per kilogram
CHANDIGARH: To promote natural farming, the Himachal Pradesh government will, for the first time, begin procuring naturally grown barley from the remote Pangi region in Chamba district from October 8, at a minimum support price (MSP) of Rs 60 per kilogram. An official said the Agriculture Department has completed all preparations for the procurement. Five centres have been set up across Pangi Valley at Hudan, Sechu, Sural, Killar, and Sach, and 80 farmers from the region have registered to benefit from the initiative. Promoting natural farming remains a key priority for the state government, which has already completed the procurement of naturally grown wheat from across Himachal Pradesh. Through 22 centres, a total of 2,123.587 quintals of wheat has been purchased from 838 farmers. The procured wheat is being processed into flour and porridge and will be marketed under the Him-Bhog brand. Farmers have received Rs 1.27 crore for their produce, along with an additional Rs 4.15 lakh as a transport subsidy. It is learnt that the government is committed to promoting naturally grown produce by offering MSPs for various crops: Rs 60 per kg for wheat, Rs 40 for maize, Rs 90 for raw turmeric, and Rs 60 for barley. This initiative not only provides chemical-free food products for consumers but also ensures better prices for farmers practising natural cultivation. State Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu stated that the present State government is dedicated to strengthening the rural economy and putting money directly into the hands of villagers. To achieve this, the government has launched two new initiatives, the Milk Incentive Scheme and the Transport Subsidy Scheme, starting in the Arki Assembly constituency of Solan district. Under the Milk Incentive Scheme, farmers associated with a registered milk cooperative society will receive an incentive of Rs 3 per litre, while under the Transport Subsidy Scheme, private milk societies will also receive Rs 3 per litre as financial assistance for milk collection and transportation. Himachal Pradesh has become the first state in the country where the state government is purchasing cow milk at the rate of Rs 51 per litre and buffalo milk for Rs 61 per litre through the Himachal Pradesh Milk Federation. Sukhu made these claims while launching the Doodh Protsahan Yojana and a freight subsidy scheme at Darlaghat in the Arki assembly segment of Solan district on Saturday.
Higher reaches of Himachal receive snowfall
SHIMLA, Oct 5: The higher reaches of Himachal Pradesh, including Rohtang Pass and Dhauladhar ranges, received the seasons fresh snowfall on Sunday morning, leading to a drop in the minimum temperature. The Kullu district administration has suspended vehicular traffic to Rohtang Pass and advised commuters not to venture through this highway, officials said. Strong icy winds swept the higher and mid hills of the state early Sunday, followed by severe thunderstorm, lightning and intermittent rains. The sprawling Dhauladhar ranges [] The post Higher reaches of Himachal receive snowfall appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Met office issues orange alert for hail, very heavy rain in Himachal Pradesh on October 6
Himachal Pradesh anticipates a fresh wet spell beginning October 5. The meteorological department issued an orange alert for heavy rain and thunderstorms on October 6 in six districts. A yellow warning covers all 12 districts on October 5. Light to moderate rains are predicted across the state on October 6 and 7. Temperatures remained above normal on Saturday.
Three children go missing every day in Uttarakhand, raising concerns over child safety
DEHRADUN: A deeply alarming trend of missing children continues to plague the Himalayan state of Uttarakhand, casting a dark shadow over its image as a peaceful haven. Despite intensified police vigilance, awareness campaigns, and frequent checkpoints, official data reveals a staggering and deeply concerning rate of disappearances. According to the latest report from the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) for the fiscal year 2023-24, an average of three children went missing in Uttarakhand every single day. The report highlights that a total of 1,209 children under the age of 18 were reported missing during this period. The most heartbreaking statistic, however, is the low recovery rate, only 276 of these children have been reunited with their families, leaving a staggering 933 children still unaccounted for. The report further breaks down the missing minors, 408 boys and 802 girls were reported missing, of whom 128 boys and 148 girls were subsequently found. Comparative glance: Himalayan states (2023-24 Data) State Missing Recovered Himachal Pradesh 504 81 Uttarakhand 1209 276 Sikkim 22 13 Arunachal Pradesh 40 21 Nagaland 47 0 Manipur 89 24 Mizoram 1 0 Tripura 268 37 Social activists have voiced strong concerns over the persistent crisis. Anoop Nautiyal, founder president of the Social Development for Communities Foundation, told this newspaper, This situation is deeply worrisome, especially when the state police run 'Operation Smile' every year specifically to trace missing children. The opposition has sharply criticised the ruling governments handling of law and order in light of these figures. Mohan Kala, spokesperson for the Congress party in the state, stated, The claims of the BJP government, which boasts of a safe and tranquil Uttarakhand, have been completely exposed by this data on law and order. Furthermore, the image of Uttarakhand, famous nationwide for tourism and religious pilgrimage, has been severely tarnished. Kala added, There is much fanfare and photo opportunities when claims are made about finding missing children and reuniting them with their families, but the NCRB report released just two days ago has laid bare the reality of police performance. The NCRB report, which compiles annual crime statistics across the country, also tracks general missing persons cases. In Uttarakhand, a total of 6,532 individuals were reported missing in 2023-24, comprising 3,277 men and 3,255 women. Out of these, the police managed to trace 2,701 missing persons, including 1,688 men and 1,013 women.
Soldiers Fulfil Role Of Brother At Woman's Wedding, Guests Watch With Tears
In a deeply emotional moment, soldiers in Himachal Pradesh fulfilled the role of a brother at the wedding of a woman whose brother was killed in action in Arunachal Pradesh. Visuals showed many at the wedding stood with tears.
Heavy Rain Likely In Punjab, Himachal, Haryana From Saturday; IMD Issues Red Alert
IMD warns of very heavy rain in Punjab, Himachal Pradesh and Haryana due to three weather systems, raising risks of flash floods and landslides. Authorities have urged caution.
Himachal Bride Who Married Two Brothers Ends Silence As One Of Them Moves Abroad
Pradeep Negi and Kapil Negi, two brothers from Shillai village in Himachal Pradesh's Sirmaur, married Sunita on July 13 following the Jodidar tradition
Snow leopard count up by 62 per cent in Himachal over four years: survey
Shimla, Oct 3: The population of rare snow leopards in high-altitude tribal areas of Himachal Pradesh has increased by 62 per cent over the past four years, says a newly released survey. The count stood at 51 in 2021, according to the baseline survey conducted by the Wildlife Wing of the state Forest Department. It has now increased to 83, officials said on Friday, citing the study conducted during the past one year. The survey also involved strong community participation, [] The post Snow leopard count up by 62 per cent in Himachal over four years: survey appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Himachal Pradesh: Dhauladhar Mountain range receives snowfall, temperature dips
Mild snowfall in the Dhauladhar mountains brought pleasant weather and a temperature dip to Dharamshala, signaling winter's approach. This follows a period of severe rainfall between June and September 2025, which caused 55 deaths, 215 livestock fatalities, and an estimated Rs. 603 crore in damages across Kangra district.
Gen Z of Himachal preserver of culture, different from their peers abroad: Governor
SHIMLA, Oct 2: Himachal Pradesh Governor Shiv Pratap Shukla on Thursday praised the Gen Z of the state and said they were different from their peers abroad as they remain connected to traditions and serve as preservers of heritage. Inaugurating the week-long International Kullu Dussehra celebrations at Rath Maidan in Kullu town, the Governor participated in the traditional Rath Yatra of Lord Raghunath Ji and said, The difference between the Gen Z of Himachal and those abroad is that [] The post Gen Z of Himachal preserver of culture, different from their peers abroad: Governor appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Four youth die of suspected drug overdose in Punjab village within 48 hours
Four young men in their mid-twenties reportedly died due to drug abuse within a span of 48 hours in Lakho Ke Behram village, located along the Ferozepur-Fazilka road. One youth died on Tuesday, while the other three passed away within hours on Wednesday, leaving their families devastated. Sources revealed that all four had a history of drug consumption and had been admitted to de-addiction centres multiple times, but to no avail. The deceased have been identified as Sandeep Singh, Ramandeep Singh alias Rajan, Randeep Singh, and Umed Singh. Ramandeep reportedly died on Wednesday morning after injecting himself with tablets meant for oral consumption. Meanwhile, both Umed and Randeep had quit drugs some time ago, but their health had deteriorated significantly. One suffered from bedsores while the other had developed serious leg complications. Following the tragic incidents, the families of the deceased, along with other villagers, blocked the highway for three hours by placing the bodies on the road. They alleged that seven medical shops in the village were selling psychotropic drugs, which contributed to the deaths. While villagers attributed the deaths to prolonged drug addiction, police officials stated that two of the deceased had been bedridden for several months and had died due to worsening health conditions. A family member of Ramandeep said that he had struggled with drug addiction for several years despite undergoing repeated treatments at various de-addiction centres. He had been consuming drugs for the last nine years and had been in and out of de-addiction centres. Recently, he returned from a private de-addiction centre, but he again injected himself and died on Wednesday morning, the family member added. A police officer mentioned that some long-time drug addicts were attempting to quit, but were struggling. The police were making efforts to counsel such youths and have them admitted to de-addiction centres. Meanwhile, Punjab has recorded the highest number of cases against drug traffickers in the country in 2023, according to data released recently by the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB). Of the 11,589 FIRs registered under various sections of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act in 2023, 7,785 were for drug trafficking accounting for 67% of the total cases. Nationally, 39,112 cases of drug trafficking were recorded, with Punjab alone accounting for nearly 19% of them. Additionally, Punjab reported 89 drug-related deaths in 2023 the highest in the country though lower than the 144 recorded in 2022. The state remained ahead of Madhya Pradesh (85 deaths) and Rajasthan (84 deaths). In total, 654 drug overdose deaths were recorded across India in 2023. Neighboring Himachal Pradesh emerged as the second-highest state in terms of drug-smuggling ratio. While it registered 2,146 cases under the NDPS Act in 2023 not among the top 10 in absolute numbers the state reported 547 cases for consumption and 1,599 for trafficking. This results in a ratio of 7.3 cases per lakh population for consumption and 21.3 per lakh for trafficking.
One farmer commits suicide every hour in India: Report
NEW DELHI: A latest report from the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) reveals that in 2023, at least one person working in the farm sector committed suicide every hour , highlighting the economic stress faced by those in agriculture. Most of the suicide victims are from Maharashtra (38.5%), followed by Karnataka (22.5%), Andhra Pradesh (8.6%), Madhya Pradesh (7.2%), and Tamil Nadu (5.9%) regions that once thrived on rich agricultural heritage, but are now overshadowed by despair and hardship. However, the number of suicides has relatively come down compared to the previous year, 2022. But the intensity and geography remained the same. In 2023, a total of 10,786 persons involved in the farming sector committed suicide 2023, accounting for 6.3% of the total suicide victims (171,418) in the country. Data shows that out of total suicides, 43% are farmers, while the rest are farm labourers. There were a total of 4,690 farmers and 6,096 agricultural labourers who committed suicide. Out of the total farmers who committed suicide, 4,553 were male and 137 were female. However, some prominent States and Union Territories reported zero suicides among farmers, cultivators, and agricultural labourers. They are West Bengal, Bihar, Odisha, Jharkhand, Himachal Pradesh, Arunachal Pradesh, Goa, Manipur, Mizoram, Nagaland, Tripura, Chandigarh (UT), Delhi (UT), and Lakshadweep. 'System is killing them': Rahul slams Modi govt over rising farmer suicides in Maharashtra In 2022, Uttarakhand reported zero suicides, but in 2023, it contributed to the suicide count. However, this year, no suicide was reported in Jharkhand, Himachal Pradesh, and Arunachal Pradesh, while in the previous year, it contributed. In 2022, the number of farm sector suicides was comparatively higher. A total of 11,290 persons involved in the farming sector have committed suicide in 2022. It consisted of 5,207 farmers and 6,083 agricultural labourers. Out of the total 5,207 farmer suicides, a total of 4,999 were male and 208 were female. Similarly, out of 6,083 suicides committed by agricultural labourers during 2022, 5,472 were male and 611 were female. Meanwhile, NCRB reported total of 1,71,418 suicides committed in the country during 2023, showing an increase of 0.3% in comparison to 2022. Unable to fulfill son's wish for a smartphone, farmer dies by suicide with the same rope as his son
Himachal lost Rs 4,881 crore in rain-related disasters; CM says yet to get centre's financial aid
CHANDIGARH: Himachal Pradesh received 39 per cent excess rainfall during the monsoon season from June 1 to September 30, and the state recorded 1,022.5 mm of rainfall against the normal rainfall of 734.4 mm. This year, the hill state received the 15th-highest monsoon rainfall in the last 125 years and the highest in 29 years. The highest rainfall of 1,314.6 mm was recorded in 1922 for the period from 1901 to 2025. As per a report issued by the meteorological centre in Shimla, the southwest monsoon entered the Himalayan state on June 20 and withdrew on September 26. In the last 29 years, the earliest onset of the southwest monsoon was on June 9, 2000, and the most delayed arrival was on July 5, 2010. The earliest withdrawal was on September 18, 2001, and the most delayed one was on October 11, 2019. This monsoon, the excess rainfall was 34 per cent in June, 68 per cent in August and 71 per cent in September. However, July recorded a deficit of 2 per cent. Very heavy rainfall was recorded in the state on 36 days. Excessive rains wreaked havoc in the hill state, which suffered losses of more than Rs 4,881 crore. The state witnessed 47 cloudbursts, 98 flash floods and 148 major landslides this monsoon and 454 people died in such incidents, as per the last report of the State Emergency Operation Centre released on September 24. The report mentioned that of the victims, 264 lost their lives in rain-related incidents and 190 in road accidents. Additionally, 498 people were injured, and 50 are still reported missing. Also, 9,230 houses were fully or partially damaged. Himachal Pradesh faces Rs 4,079 crore loss following rain-related disasters Meanwhile, Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu today said that the state government is yet to receive the Rs 1,500 crore assistance announced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi following an aerial survey of the disaster-affected areas of the state. People are in a lot of pain and are facing several issues. If the relief comes a year or two later, it loses its relevance. People need the relief now, he said while talking to the media after returning from London on a personal trip. Sukhu said, regardless of the Central Governments assistance, the state government would help the affected people. The state government will give Rs 7 lakh to those who have lost their houses and Rs 1 lakh to those with partially damaged houses. People who have lost land, livestock and orchards will also get assistance, he added. While the BJP had questioned his London visit, Sukhu said that he had to carry out his duties as a father, too. I had to accompany my daughter to London, who has gone there for higher studies and not even one penny was spent from the government account on this trip, he claimed.
Himachal Pradesh govt launches scheme for heath check-up of senior citizens
Himachal Pradesh received 39% excess rain in monsoon, suffered losses of over Rs 4,881 crore
Himachal Pradesh received 39% excess monsoon rains, totaling 1,022.5 mm, marking the highest rainfall in 29 years. This led to over Rs 4,881 crore in losses, including 47 cloudbursts, 98 flash floods, and 148 major landslides. Tragically, 454 people died, and 9,230 houses were damaged across the state.
Chandigarh Diary: Congress Patiala MP opposes halqa in-charge culture
Congress Patiala MP opposes halqa in-charge culture Congress MP from Patiala, Dr. Dharamvira Gandhi, has strongly criticised the partys decision to appoint halqa in-charges in Patiala district. He said that during recent events across eight assembly segments, these so-called coordinators dominated proceedings while young Congress workers were ignored. In a Facebook post, he wrote: What is and who is this halqa in-charge in the Congress party? They are the candidates who could not make it to the Vidhan Sabha. Some even lost their deposits. Gandhi alleged that this halqa in-charge culture was deliberately introduced to block the rise of dedicated local youth leaders. HP ministers son embarrasses Congress The Himachal Pradesh Congress is embarrassed after Col (Retd) Sanjay Shandil, son of Health and Family Welfare Minister Dr. Dhani Ram Shandil, took to social media to demand suspension of lax and corrupt officers in the health department. He claimed that corrupt officials do not even hesitate to exploit the specially-abled. Sanjay Shandil, who is aspiring to contest the next assembly elections after being declared his fathers political heir, has been active in the field since his retirement a few months ago. While the immediate provocation behind his post is not known, it has visibly unsettled the state Congress leadership. Dera chief & Budha Dal head meet, spark buzz A recent meeting between Baba Gurinder Singh Dhillon, chief of Dera Radha Soami Beas, and Baba Balbir Singh, chief of Budha Dal, has become the talking point. Dhillon visited Gurdwara Burj Akali Phoola Singh, the Nihang cantonment, to meet Baba Balbir Singh. A video shows the Baba briefing Dhillon about Budha Dals history, mentioning that the Dal chief once served as Akal Takht Jathedar. Dhillon responded: As per old traditions, Baba ji, the Jathedar of Akal Takht (is there) to keep everything in order. It comes even as the grapevine says the Jathedar should take all sections of society. Harpreet Bajwa Our correspondent in Chandigarh hsbajwa73@gmail.com
Himachal: Kullu police to use AI for surveillance during international Dussehra festival
SHIMLA, Sep 30: The Kullu police will deploy artificial intelligence for surveillance during the International Kullu Dussehra, with anti-goon squads in place and special measures taken to prevent pickpocketing and ensure a beggar-free festival. About 1,200 police personnel will be deployed to maintain law and order and ensure security during the celebrations, scheduled from Vijay Dashmi on October 2 to October 8 in Himachal Pradeshs Kullu district, officials said on Tuesday. For the first time, the police will use AI-based [] The post Himachal: Kullu police to use AI for surveillance during international Dussehra festival appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Ranveer Singh delights students of Sanawar school
Bollywood actor Ranveer Singh interacted with students of The Lawrence School, Sanawar, in Himachal Pradesh on the last day of his three-day shooting schedule for the Dhurandhar film on the school campus sets
'Saven harendra': Himachal school principal's cheque goes viral; netizens react
A government school cheque from Himachal Pradesh caused online amusement and concern. The cheque, dated September 25, contained multiple spelling mistakes in the written amount. It was meant for Atter Singh for 7,616 rupees. The bank rejected the document due to these errors. The principal signed the cheque without correcting the mistakes. This incident raised questions about administrative oversight in education.
'Saven Harendra': Himachal School Principal's Wrongly-Spelt Cheque Goes Viral
A cheque signed by a government school principal in Himachal Pradesh has gone viral for its glaring spelling errors, with people on social media turning it into a laughing stock.
NDA MPs to probe Karur stampede, says BJP MP Hema Malini
COIMBATORE: BJP MP Hema Malini, leading an eight-member NDA delegation, stated on Tuesday that the team of MPs would investigate the circumstances that led to the tragic stampede in Karur on 27 September, which claimed 41 lives and left nearly 60 injured. Anurag Thakur, MP, said the delegation would meet local residents and officials to gather information about what transpired during the rally held by TVK chief Vijay, which allegedly triggered the stampede. The findings will be compiled into a report for BJP national president J.P. Nadda. Speaking to reporters at the airport here before proceeding to Karur, Hema Malini and others expressed their condolences and said the panel would visit the families who had lost their loved ones in the incident. TVK rally stampede: Most victims died of compressive asphyxia, says TN medical director Thakur added: We pray for the speedy recovery of the injured and those still hospitalised.There is no rush on our part, we are here to meet everyone.We want to speak to those who have lost their loved ones.We do not want such an incident to happen again in the future. It is important to understand what went wrong, who is at fault, and what lessons must be learnt. We are here for a serious purpose. The Himachal Pradesh MP noted that the decision to form a panel of NDA MPs to visit Karur and assess the situation was taken only on the afternoon of 29 September, and the MPs had travelled to Tamil Nadu from across the country, including Uttar Pradesh, Odisha, and Maharashtra. We all stand together with those who have lost their family members, he added. Tamil Nadu BJPs former President K. Annamalai is accompanying the NDA MPs. State BJP chief Nainar Nagendran said the MPs would be visiting the site of the stampede, the hospital where the injured are being treated, and the families of all 41 victims who lost their lives in the tragedy.
New GIFT study frees Kerala from grip of debt-trap narrative
KOCHI: While Keralas high debt levels often draw criticism, a new study by the Gulati Institute of Finance and Taxation (GIFT) says that the states debt trajectory is not a story of collapse, but one of recovery. According to the report, fresh data from the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) paints a more nuanced picture: Keralas economy is stabilising faster than many other states. The pandemic shock temporarily inflated debt figures, but with economic revival and disciplined borrowing, sustainability is achievable without compromising welfare spending. P S Renjith, an assistant professor at GIFT, pointed out that the Reserve Banks 2022 report had categorised Kerala among the most fiscally unsustainable states. Before the pandemic, Keralas debt-to-gross state domestic product (GSDP) ratio hovered between 27% and 32% for nearly two decades, a range widely considered sustainable. In 2018-19, the ratio stood at 30.65%. The Covid crisis disrupted this balance. In 2020-21, Keralas GSDP shrank by nearly 9%, a contraction that was sharper than the national average. This denominator effect pushed the debt-GSDP ratio up to 39.96%. The RBI read this as a sign of fiscal mismanagement, projecting Keralas debt ratio would remain above 35% well into 2026-27, he said. But the post-pandemic years have proved otherwise. By 2023-24, Keralas debt ratio dropped to 34.2%, with the latest budget estimate placing it at 33.8% for 2025-26. This marks a steady downtrend, even after factoring in off-budget borrowing, which now invites increased scrutiny by the CAG. Comparative data strengthens Keralas case. While Punjab (44.5%), Himachal Pradesh (40.5%), and West Bengal (38%) continue to carry heavier debt loads, Kerala has achieved a sharper and more consistent reduction. In fact, it now ranks among the top ten states in terms of the pace of decline. The gap between pre-pandemic debt/GSDP ratio and current levels has narrowed to just 3.15 percentage points, placing Kerala 16th in terms of adjustment volume. These trends confirm earlier GIFT projections that Kerala could reach a sustainable threshold of 27.8% by 2030-31, provided economic growth continues and fiscal discipline is maintained, Renjith said. What was once flagged as a debt crisis in waiting is now shaping into a story of cautious recovery. If Kerala continues on this trajectory, it could provide a model for other states, demonstrating that fiscal consolidation and social commitment can coexist, even in a post-crisis economy, he added. The study points out that two factors could weigh on this trajectory: central restrictions that limit additional revenue mobilization and the growing challenge of an ageing population. M Suresh Babu, director of the Madras Institute of Development Studies (MIDS), said that according to the CAG report, Kerala is not in a significantly dangerous position regarding debt. The report shows that, despite facing revenue deficits, Kerala is making progress in addressing these challenges, he told TNIE. Borrowing itself isnt the problem what matters is how states use the money and whether they can repay it. From a national perspective, Indias states are sitting on a mountain of debt that has tripled in a decade, according to the CAG report. If states also have weak revenue-generation capacity, it becomes difficult to service debt without relying on Union government transfers or further borrowing. As debt servicing interest and principal repayments grows, fiscal space for capital expenditure essential for infrastructure, health, education, and even climate adaptation shrinks, Suresh added. Kerala economy grows, still has woes
J&K Jr Kickboxing team excels in Nationals
Excelsior Sports Correspondent JAMMU, Sept 28: Jammu & Kashmirs Junior Kickboxing team delivered an impressive performance at the WAKO India Junior National Kickboxing Championship 2025, held in Solan, Himachal Pradesh. A nine-member team, coached by Sudarshan Singh and Irfan Choudhary, secured a total of seven medals. Muskan Sharma won the gold medal, Mohd Hashim claimed silver, while Akshara Bhagat, Rudransh Verma, Gurubaksh and Abhishek Singh earned bronze medals. On their return, the team was warmly welcomed by Abhishek Jain, General [] The post J&K Jr Kickboxing team excels in Nationals appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Punjabi singer Rajvir Jawanda in critical condition after bike accident
CHANDIGARH: Punjabi singer, 35-year-old Rajvir Jawanda, who was injured in a bike accident yesterday in Himachal Pradesh, continues to remain critical. He sustained brutal head and spine injuries and was rushed and admitted to Fortis hospital in Mohali. Many political leaders, including Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, Union Minister Ravneet Singh Bittu and several Punjabi artistes, reached the hospital today to inquire about his health. Sources said that the accident took place on the Baddi Nalagarh road in Solan of Himachal Pradesh while going to Shimla, where he lost control of the bike as he was reported to have been hit by two bulls. Jawanda was first taken to the Civil Hospital, where doctors confirmed that he suffered a head and spine injury and also went into cardiac arrest. He was later referred to the Fortis Hospital in Mohali, Punjab, in an 'extremely critical' condition. The singer was put on ventilator support. On arrival, he was immediately assessed by emergency and neurosurgery teams, placed on advanced life support, and is currently on ventilator support under close monitoring. In a statement, Fortis Hospital said the singer is still on ventilator support. He is under close monitoring and management by the multidisciplinary team comprising neurosurgery and critical care specialists, it said. Hailing from Pona village in Jagraon of Ludhiana, he had risen to fame with the song `Kali Jawande Di. Jawanda is also known for his songs Tu dis penda, Khush reha kar, Sardari, Surname, Afreen, Landlord, Down to earth and Kangani. He also acted in Gippy Grewal-starrer Subedar Joginder Singh in 2018, Jind Jaan in 2019 and Mindo Taseeldarni in 2019. Meanwhile, locals performed an ardas (prayer) for Jawandas recovery at a gurdwara in his native village. Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann visited the hospital to inquire about his health. Mann said he met Jawandas mother and his wife at the hospital. Mann also requested the public not to spread rumours about his health on social media. He further said the singers fans across the world are praying for his recovery. More expert doctors, including from the Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, were being consulted, he said. While Ravneet Singh Bittu also met the family members of the singer at the hospital and prayed that he gets well soon. He has suffered a head injury, it takes time to recover, he added. Also several Punjabi artistes reached the hospital today to inquire about health of Jawanda and have appealed to people to pray for the singers speedy recovery. Singers Kanwar Grewal, Gurdas Mann, and Babbu Mann made an appeal to people to pray for Jawanda. Grewal, who was at the hospital, said Jawanda was getting the best treatment. Pray for him so that he gets well soon, he said. Singer Surjit Bhullar and actor-singer Ranjit Bawa also visited the hospital. Punjabi actor and AAP leader Sonia Mann also visited the hospital and urged people not to spread rumours about his health. Singer Tarsem Jassar said everyone must pray to the Almighty so that Jawanda recovers quickly.
CHANDIGARH: The Spiti Valley of Lahaul-Spiti district in Himachal Pradesh, perched high in the Trans-Himalayan region, has been recognised as Indias first Cold Desert Biosphere Reserve under UNESCOs prestigious Man and the Biosphere (MAB) Programme. It is among the 26 new biosphere reserves designated across several countries. With this inclusion, India now has 13 biosphere reserves in the MAB Network. The recognition was formally conferred during the 37th International Coordinating Council (MAB-ICC) meeting held in Hangzhou, China, from September 26 to 28. Encompassing windswept plateaus, glacial valleys, alpine lakes and rugged high-altitude deserts, it is one of the coldest and driest ecosystems in the World Network of Biosphere Reserves (WNBR). UNESCO designates 26 new biosphere reserves across 21 countries the highest number in 20 years. The World Network of Biosphere Reserves now includes 785 sites in 142 countries, with an additional one million sq km of natural areas brought under protection since 2018 equivalent to the size of Bolivia, the world body said in a statement. The Spiti Cold Desert Biosphere Reserve spans a geographical area of 7,770 square kilometres, covering the entire Spiti Wildlife Division (7,591 sq km) and adjoining parts of the Lahaul Forest Division, including Baralacha Pass, Bharatpur and Sarchu (179 sq km). Situated at altitudes ranging from 3,300 to 6,600 metres, the Reserve falls within the Trans-Himalaya biogeographic province of the Indian Himalaya. The reserve is structured into three zones: a 2,665 sq km core zone, a 3,977 sq km buffer zone and a 1,128 sq km transition zone. It integrates Pin Valley National Park, Kibber Wildlife Sanctuary, Chandratal Wetland and the Sarchu Plains, representing a unique cold desert ecosystem shaped by extreme climate, topography and fragile soils. The region is ecologically rich, harbouring 655 herbs, 41 shrubs and 17 tree species, including 14 endemic and 47 medicinal plants central to the Sowa Rigpa/Amchi healing tradition. Its wildlife includes 17 mammal species and 119 bird species, with the Snow Leopard as a flagship species. Other notable species include the Tibetan wolf, red fox, ibex, blue sheep, Himalayan snow cock, golden eagle and bearded vulture. With more than 800 blue sheep, Spiti Valley alone provides a strong prey base for large carnivores. Himachal Pradesh Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (Wildlife), Amitabh Gautam, said, This recognition firmly places Himachals cold deserts on the global conservation map. It will enhance international research collaboration, promote responsible eco-tourism to support local livelihoods, and strengthen Indias efforts to build climate resilience in the fragile Himalayan ecosystems. This milestone has been made possible due to the pragmatic efforts of the state government. Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu said, The State Government is committed to protect and conserve Himachal Pradeshs rich natural and cultural heritage and fragile ecology in the era of climate change, while ensuring harmony between developmental activities and nature. Sukhu has consistently highlighted the regions unique ecology, climate, culture and heritage, as well as the commitment of local communities who have lived in harmony with nature for generations.
Indias Cold Desert Biosphere Reserve designated by UNESCO
SHIMLA/NEW DELHI, Sep 27: Indias Cold Desert Biosphere Reserve, perched high in the trans-Himalayan region, is among the 26 new biosphere reserves across several countries, designated by UNESCO, the world body announced today. The Cold Desert Biosphere Reserve of northern India spans approximately 7,770 sq km across the dramatic landscapes of Himachal Pradeshs Lahaul-Spiti district, according to UNESCO. Encompassing windswept plateaus, glacial valleys, alpine lakes, and rugged high-altitude deserts, it is one of the coldest and driest ecosystems in UNESCOs [] The post Indias Cold Desert Biosphere Reserve designated by UNESCO appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
'Stay away from Congress and its allies, they are looting': PM Modi in Odishas Jharsuguda
BHUBANESWAR: Launching a scathing attack on Congress at the Namo Yuva Samabesh at Odishas Jharsuguda, Prime Minister Narendra Modi warned people to stay away from the party and its allies. He also said that Congress is looting the country. The Prime Minister said that the Congress government in Himachal Pradesh imposed a new tax on cement, which had 'actually' become cheaper after the GST reforms. Cheaper cement would have helped the common people in the construction of their houses. People of Himachal Pradesh are being deprived of it while the entire nation is benefitting from it, he said. The Congress looted the country till 2014. We saved the country from the cultural loot, after coming to power, he added. While the BJP and its governments are working for the welfare of poor people of the country, the Prime Minister said Congress and its governments in States continue to work against the interest of the common people, even now. The Prime Minister said that the BJP-led government has exempted income tax upto an income of Rs 12 lakh.But during the Congress regime, Rs 25,000 was levied as income tax on a spending of Rs 1 lakh, he said. He added that now only Rs 4,000 to Rs 5000 tax would have to be paid for Rs 1 lakh spending. The BJP government is a government that serves the poor, with a focus on providing basic amenities to Dalits, backward classes and tribals. Today, in this program, we are witnessing it, he added. The Prime Minister said that a year and a half ago, during the assembly elections, the people of Odisha vowed to move forward with a new resolve, a resolve for a developed Odisha. And today, we see that Odisha is moving forward at the speed of a double engine, he asserted. The Prime Minister also launched projects and programmes worth Rs 60,000 crore during the programme, including BSNL 4G services to improve communication in 30,000 faraway villages. He also distributed pucca houses permits to 50,000 Antyadayo beneficiaries in the State. Besides, work on expanding IITs in several states has also started, he said and added that in Odisha, the foundation stone has been laid and inaugurations have been held for numerous initiatives related to education, skills, and connectivity. Notably, the Prime Minister also flagged off the modern Amrit Bharat train from Berhampur to Surat.
Centre Transfers Over Rs 540 Cr Under PM-KISAN To 27 Lakh Farmers In 3 Flood-Hit States
New Delhi, Sep 26: The government on Friday released over Rs 540 crore under the 21st instalment of the PM-KISAN scheme to more than 27 lakh farmers of three food-affected states Himachal Pradesh, Punjab, and Uttarakhand. The PM-KISAN scheme is a central sector scheme launched in February 2019 by the Prime Minister to supplement the financial needs of land-holding farmers. Under the scheme, a financial benefit of Rs 6,000 per year is transferred in three equal instalments into the [] The post Centre Transfers Over Rs 540 Cr Under PM-KISAN To 27 Lakh Farmers In 3 Flood-Hit States appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Which state is known as the 'Apple State of India'?
Himachal Pradesh, nestled in the Himalayas, is celebrated as the Apple State of India due to its extensive apple orchards. Introduced by Samuel Evans Stokes, apple cultivation transformed the region's economy. The state's unique geography, with its cool climate and fertile soil, contributes to the production of high-quality apples, making it a vital source of income for many families.
