Maharashtra on Alert for Potential Weak Monsoon as CM Fadnavis Issues Directives
Mumbai, April 23: Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has instructed officials to implement strict water management and conservation measures to ensure adequate drinking water supply by the end of August 2026. He also warned of possible disruptions in rainfall due to the El Nio phenomenon. Currently, the states reservoirs hold 653.63 thousand million cubic feet ... Read more Maharashtra on Alert for Potential Weak Monsoon as CM Fadnavis Issues Directives
Maharashtra Navnirman Sena Launches Campaign to Promote Marathi Language
Mumbai, April 22: The Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) has initiated a new campaign in Goregaon aimed at promoting the Marathi language. As part of this initiative, auto-rickshaw drivers in the city are being organized to display boards stating, I speak Marathi on their vehicles. The party asserts that this step is intended to enhance the ... Read more Maharashtra Navnirman Sena Launches Campaign to Promote Marathi Language
Every Citizen Should Become a Vasundhara Protector for Environmental Conservation: Pankaja Munde
Mumbai, April 22: Amid rising pollution, climate change, and rapid urbanization, Maharashtras Minister of Environment and Climate Change, Pankaja Munde, urged every citizen to step forward as a Vasundhara Protector for environmental conservation. She expressed her commitment to transforming the concept of Vasundhara Protector from a mere initiative into a peoples movement. On the occasion ... Read more Every Citizen Should Become a Vasundhara Protector for Environmental Conservation: Pankaja Munde
Mumbai police make 11th arrest in ecstasy pill overdose deaths case
Mumbai, April 22: The Maharashtra Cabinet, led by Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, has granted approval for the construction of Mumbai Metro Line 5A (Phase 1 and 2) on Wednesday. This project will involve a total investment of 18,130.55 crore. Additionally, the Cabinet has sanctioned loans from the Housing and Urban Development Corporation Limited (HUDCO) for ... Read more Maharashtra Cabinet Approves Major Infrastructure Projects, Including Metro Line 5A and Three Expressways
Maharashtra: Palghar illegal firecracker unit blast records second death
Fake ISRO Scientist Arrested for Defrauding Woman of 26.5 Lakhs in Pune
Pune, April 22: A shocking incident has emerged from Pune, Maharashtra, where a fake ISRO scientist was arrested for defrauding a woman of 26.5 lakhs through an online matrimonial site. The accused exploited the trust built through this platform to carry out the scam. The suspect, identified as 34-year-old Aadarsh Prashant Mhatre, had also used ... Read more Fake ISRO Scientist Arrested for Defrauding Woman of 26.5 Lakhs in Pune
Mumbai MDMA Bust: Bar Dancers Live-in Partner Held, Arrests Rise to 4
No fees, no OTPs needed for census data in Maharashtra, officials clarify
Metro 5 expansion to link Thane, Bhiwandi, Kalyan
Stray Population May Hit 4.48 Lakh, BMC clears 23 Crore for Sterilisations
Senior bank executive from Mumbai loses Rs 98 lakh in share trading fraud
Maharashtra dams have higher water storage amid El Nino concern
Maharashtra govt sets up panel on use of technology to collect e-challan in traffic violations
Mumbais trauma hospital workers disrupt services over unpaid dues
Maharashtra: Pune records 42 degrees Celsius, IMD issues yellow alert
Heatwave-like conditions have persisted through the week, with officials indicating that temperatures are likely to remain high for the next two days before dipping slightly by 2-3 degrees Celsius
Congress to strongly push for OBC quota within womens reservation bill
The Indian National Congress plans to push for including OBCs in the womens reservation quota, citing upcoming caste census data. The move follows the defeat of the womens reservation bill in the Lok Sabha and aims to strengthen OBC representation in legislatures
Maharashtra Government Approves CBG Policy to Transform Waste into Green Energy
Mumbai, April 22: The Maharashtra government has approved the Maharashtra State Compressed Biogas (CBG) Policy 2026 during a cabinet meeting chaired by Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis. This policy aims to enhance waste management and promote energy self-sufficiency. The initiative addresses the growing waste problem in urban areas and agricultural residues, converting them into clean and ... Read more Maharashtra Government Approves CBG Policy to Transform Waste into Green Energy
Maharashtra cabinet clears compressed biogas policy
Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis approved special incentives for 18 large projects totaling 2.56 lakh crore. The investments aim to boost industrial development and strengthen local economies in the Konkan, Vidarbha, and Marathwada regions.
Nitin Gadkari Praised as Visionary Leader at Save the Earth Conference
New Delhi, April 22: Maharashtra Minister Ashish Jaiswal has hailed Union Minister Nitin Gadkari as a visionary leader. He stated that Gadkaris comprehensive guidance at the Save the Earth conference on Wednesday exemplifies his foresight as a leader. Jaiswal emphasized that Gadkari has consistently worked to steer the nation in the right direction. In his ... Read more Nitin Gadkari Praised as Visionary Leader at Save the Earth Conference
Poll seizures cross Rs 1,000 crore in Tamil Nadu and West Bengal ahead of polls
According to the poll body, enforcement agencies have seized cash, liquor, drugs, precious metals, and other freebies collectively valued at Rs 1,072.13 crore since the activation of the Election Seizure Management System (ESMS) on February 26
Atal Pension Yojana crosses historic nine crore enrolments
Gross enrolments during the Financial Year 202526 crossed 1.35 crore subscribers, marking the highest-ever enrolments recorded in a single financial year since the inception of the scheme, according to a Finance Ministry statement
Raja Shivaji trailer: Riteish Deshmukh responds to controversy
Riteish Deshmukh's historical drama 'Raja Shivaji' faces backlash over a trailer scene depicting Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj showing the 'Wagh Nakh' to Afzal Khan before their encounter. Critics question the historical accuracy, alleging manipulation of Maharashtra's pride. Deshmukh urged viewers to watch the film for answers, sparking further debate.
Special court denies bail to alleged PFI member under UAPA
Pahalgam attack anniversary: Shiv Sena (UBT) stages symbolic coffin protest
Jammu and Kashmir Shiv Sena (UBT) staged a symbolic protest by carrying a green coffin to mark the first anniversary of the Pahalgam terror attack that killed 26 people. The rally paid tribute to victims while condemning terrorism, as families of victims recalled their grief
American tourist sexually assaulted at Karnataka homestay
According to police sources, the woman had checked into the homestay named `Devi Villa` on April 19, when she was allegedly sexually assaulted by a man identified as Vrujesh Kumar, a native of Jharkhand
Mumbai gridlock: Woman confronts Minister Girish Mahajan during BJP rally
A BJP protest in Mumbais Worli over the womens reservation bill, sparked traffic chaos, leading to a viral confrontation between a commuter and Maharashtra Minister Girish Mahajan.
IMD issues yellow alert for Maharashtra; thunderstorms, rain likely in Mumbai
Maharashtra is set to witness typical pre-monsoon variability over the next few days, with thunderstorms and rain affecting western and coastal regions, even as heat continues to dominate the interiors
Maharashtra minister Girish Mahajan acknowledged inconvenience during a BJP-backed women's march in Mumbai, stating a woman who confronted him used inappropriate language. He apologized to her and asked police to refrain from harsh action, citing her rush to pick up her child.
Woman commuter confronts BJP minister over traffic halt due to rally
Mumbai: Traffic chaos during the BJPs demonstration over the womens reservation bill in Mumbais Worli area prompted an irate woman to confront Maharashtra minister Girish Mahajan, blaming him for the snarls. The incident occurred on Tuesday, April 21, when Mahajan was addressing reporters at the rally, organised to target Opposition parties over the defeat of 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 .
Two ships targeted near Hormuz as Iranian gunboat fires at container vessel
An Iranian gunboat opened fire on a container ship off Oman, damaging its bridge, while another cargo vessel near Iran was also targeted and halted near the Strait of Hormuz, according to UK maritime authorities
FIMCA Calls for Urgent Overhaul of Indias Overseas Employment Framework Amid Rising Job Losses
Mumbai, Maharashtra, India Business Wire India
Pahalgam Terror Attack: Ponywallah Adil Shahs Sacrifice Immortalised In History, Says Shinde
MUMBAI, Apr 22: Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde has said that the sacrifice of ponywallah Syed Adil Hussain Shah, one of the 26 victims of last years Pahalgam terror attack, has been etched in history and will never be forgotten by the country. On Tuesday, a newly built house was handed over to Shahs family an act Shinde described as honouring the brave hearts sacrifice rather than merely providing shelter. Shah, along with 25 tourists, lost his life [] The post Pahalgam Terror Attack: Ponywallah Adil Shahs Sacrifice Immortalised In History, Says Shinde appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
MMRDA facilitates first-ever ad shoot on Mumbai Metro Line 2B
The Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) has enabled the first-ever commercial ad shoot on Mumbai Metro Line 2B, generating Rs 20.35 lakh in revenue. The initiative aims to boost non-fare income and transform metro infrastructure into a multi-purpose urban asset
Bombay High Court has permitted four individuals accused in the 2006 Malegaon blasts to challenge charges under the UAPA and other offenses. The court's decision allows them to contest charges including murder and attempt to murder. This development comes after the framing of 19 charges against them last year, with the NIA investigating the case.
`Nagrikdevo Bhava` must be at heart of every decision: PM Modi
PM Modi wrote to over one crore civil servants, urging them to adopt the principle of Nagrikdevo Bhava (citizen is god) and place citizens at the center of governance
Iran hangs man to death over alleged Mossad links
Iran executed a man, Mehdi Farid, over alleged links to Israels Mossad, amid a surge in executions during ongoing conflict and protests. A local report said he was passing information to the Israeli spy agency
Maharashtra Ministers Inaugurate House for Pahalgam Attack Victim
SRINAGAR: In a poignant gesture of remembrance and solidarity, Maharashtra ministers led by Sanjay Shirsat and Yogesh Kadam on Tuesday inaugurated a newly constructed house for Syed Adil Hussain Shah, who lost his life during the Pahalgam terror attack while bravely saving tourists last year. The ceremony, held in the presence of residents and officials, []
UK, France to lead multinational Strait of Hormuz military planning conference
Military planners from over 30 countries are meeting in the UK to create a joint plan, led by the UK and France, to reopen the Strait of Hormuz after a ceasefire, focusing on maritime security and safe global trade routes
Former Infosys CFO Mohandas Pai has voiced strong criticism regarding Mumbai's infrastructure, particularly the poor state of roads and civic works in Andheri. He described the situation as a disaster driven by deep corruption, highlighting the stark contrast between world-class buildings and hird-class roads and footpaths. This comes amid ongoing large-scale infrastructure upgrades in the city.
PM Modis message for Char Dham pilgrims: Keep clean, go local, follow rules
As the Char Dham Yatra begins, Prime Minister Narendra Modi urged pilgrims to maintain cleanliness, avoid plastic use, support local businesses, and follow rules. He also stressed environmental protection and responsible travel in the fragile Himalayan region
India united against terror: Kharge on Pahalgam terror attack anniversary
On the first anniversary of the Pahalgam terror attack, Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge paid tribute to the 26 victims and hailed the armed forces role in Operation Sindoor, asserting that India remains united and resolute against terrorism
USFDA issues Form-483 with 5 observations to Ajanta Pharma's Paithan facility
Ajanta Pharma said the US FDA has issued Form-483 with five observations after inspecting its Paithan manufacturing facility in Maharashtra from April 1321, 2026. The company stated it will respond within the stipulated timeframe, while noting that Form-483 is issued when inspectors observe potential regulatory violations.
My anger is personal: Widow recalls Pahalgam attack pain as it marks one year
Marking one year of the Pahalgam terror attack, a victims wife shared her grief and anger, calling for global action against terrorism while acknowledging the complexities of geopolitics. The attack had claimed 26 lives and triggered military escalation between India and Pakistan
Sensex falls nearly 500 points, Nifty dips by 142 as markets remain volatile
Sensex and Nifty declined in early trade on Wednesday after a strong three-day rally, dragged by heavy selling in IT stocks. HCL Tech plunged nearly 9 per cent, while global uncertainties and FII outflows added pressure, keeping market sentiment volatile
SoBo Giants Claim Victory in Inaugural Maharashtra Shooting League
Pune, April 22: SoBo Giants have emerged as the champions of the inaugural Maharashtra Shooting League. In a closely contested mixed team final, they decisively defeated Palghar Golden Finger with a score of 17-7. Meanwhile, Aamhi Pune Kar secured third place by narrowly beating Sangli Alpha Lions 16-14. This league plays a crucial role in ... Read more SoBo Giants Claim Victory in Inaugural Maharashtra Shooting League
PM Modi remembers Pahalgam attack victims, says India will never bow to terror
India on Wednesday marks one year of the deadly Pahalgam terror attack, in which Pakistan-backed terrorists killed 26 tourists after identifying their religion. The massacre was among the most brutal attacks on civilians in recent years and triggered nationwide outrage
An angry woman in Mumbai, who was stuck in a traffic jam when she was on her way to pick her child from school, vented out her frustration at Maharashtra minister and BJP neta Girish Mahajan. The video shows a woman shouting at Girish Mahajan, asking him to get off the roads as the party's rally caused inconvenience to commuters.
Trump extends Iran ceasefire but Hormuz blockade continues
In a statement posted on Truth Social, Trump said the decision followed a request from Pakistans leadership and due to internal divisions within Irans government. The announcement came just hours before the two-week ceasefire was set to expire, leaving the next round of peace talks in uncertainty
US imposes fresh sanctions on Iran-linked network across three countries
The United States has imposed sanctions on 14 individuals, entities and aircraft linked to Iran, targeting networks involved in procuring weapons and components. The move aims to disrupt Irans military supply chains amid ongoing tensions and stalled diplomatic talks
Visually impaired students visit Ram Janmabhoomi Temple in Ayodhya
A group of 30 visually impaired students from Nari Uday Foundations Andh Prakash Vidyalaya in Rohtak visited the Ram Janmabhoomi Temple in Ayodhya for darshan. The visit was undertaken with devotion and hope, said caretaker Rani Hooda Ahlawat
Amit Shah promises 1 lakh jobs to youth annually in West Bengal
Union Home Minister Amit Shah promised one lakh jobs per year for West Bengals youth if the BJP comes to power, while addressing a rally in Kulti. He also accused the state government of mismanagement and vowed to revive the regions industrial sector and curb illegal mining
Delhi Police arrest two operatives linked to Pakistan-based handler
The Special Cell of Delhi Police has arrested two operatives allegedly working at the behest of Pakistan-based gangster and ISI proxy Shahzad Bhatti, with the police unearthing a criminal conspiracy to carry out firing, grenade attacks and target killings in the Delhi-NCR region, an official said on Tuesday.
Japan Cabinet scraps ban on exports of lethal weapons
Japan has scrapped its long-standing ban on exporting lethal weapons, marking a major shift in its post-war defence policy. The decision by Prime Minister Sanae Takaichis Cabinet opens the door for exports of warships, combat drones and other arms as Tokyo seeks to strengthen its defence industry amid regional tensions
Gunman kills tourist, injures 13 at Mexicos Teotihuacan pyramids
A shooting at Mexicos Teotihuacan pyramids left a Canadian tourist dead and at least 13 people injured. Authorities said the gunman opened fire at the site before dying by suicide. Police recovered weapons from the scene, and several victims remain hospitalised with gunshot injuries
Kerala: Eight dead, several injured in fireworks factory explosion
At least eight people were killed and several others injured in a blast at a fireworks manufacturing unit in Keralas Mundathikkode district. The explosion occurred in a shed where crackers were being prepared for the upcoming Thrissur Pooram festival, officials said
NASAs Curiosity rover detects organic molecules on Mars
NASAs Curiosity rover has detected a diverse mix of organic molecules, including nitrogen- and sulfur-bearing compounds, in clay-rich rocks in Mars Gale Crater. The findings, made using its onboard SAM instrument, mark the first such chemical experiment conducted on another planet
Pakistan thanks Trump as US extends Iran ceasefire ahead of key talks
Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has thanked US President Donald Trump for extending the ceasefire with Iran, offering more time for diplomatic negotiations. The move comes amid uncertainty over upcoming talks, as efforts continue to avoid escalation and reach a long-term peace agreement
Hong Kong seeks to confiscate jailed tycoon Jimmy Lais wealth
The Hong Kong government has moved to confiscate assets worth over $16 million linked to jailed media tycoon Jimmy Lai. Authorities have filed in court seeking forfeiture of funds and corporate shares, though details on how the assets are tied to alleged crimes remain unclear
US military pushes for boost in 2027 spending on drones, air defences used in Ir
The US military has proposed a major increase in defence spending, focusing on drones, missile systems, and air defence amid ongoing tensions with Iran. The plan includes boosting munitions stockpiles and investing heavily in modern warfare technologies
Iran says its supertanker breached US blockade line
Iran has claimed that one of its supertankers successfully breached a US naval blockade after delivering crude oil, calling it a major strategic breakthrough. The development comes amid conflicting reports over possible US-Iran talks and as a temporary ceasefire between the two sides nears expiry
Mumbai University probing alleged leak of 3 BCom papers
Mumbai University is investigating allegations of question paper leaks for three BCom sixth-semester subjects, including cost accounting, business economics, and taxation. The papers were reportedly circulated via a WhatsApp group associated with a private coaching class. The university has stated that appropriate action will be taken against anyone found guilty, though no police complaint has been filed yet.
Brace for block on Mumbai-Pune expressway on April 23 and 24; check diversion routes
Traffic on the Mumbai-Pune Expressway will face temporary diversions on April 23 and 24 due to bridge maintenance. On April 23, Mumbai-bound traffic will be diverted from 12 am to 3 pm via Kiwale-Dehu Road-Talegaon. Pune-bound traffic will be similarly diverted on April 24 during the same hours.
Because your six can be my nine!
Why I think everybody will love Rajat Kapoors chamber piece, murder mystery, Everybody Loves Sohrab Handa...
Runners must take precautions in the summertime
Authorities pointed to unseasonably warm weather as the likely cause
Junior & Youth National TT Cships: TN, WB in semifinals Dehradun, April 21: Top seeds Tamil Nadu and West Bengal, along with Assam and Maharashtra, booked their places in the semifinals of the boys team event at the UTT Inter-State Junior and Youth National Table Tennis Championships here on Tuesday. Tamil Nadu, West Bengal, Assam []
From May 1, menus must state if cheese analogue used: FDA
Minister Girish Mahajan gets taste of womans 'akrosh' over traffic jam during BJP's Mumbai rally
During a BJP rally in Mumbai, a frustrated woman confronted Maharashtra minister Girish Mahajan and demonstrators, demanding they clear the road. She expressed anger over being stuck in traffic for over an hour while trying to pick up her child. The incident, captured in viral videos, saw the woman urging them to move off the road.
Worli STP row: BMC moves state to secure 27,967 sq m of reserved land
Now, maroon T-shirt and shorts uniform for accused in central lockups in Mumbai
Maharashtra prevents 13 child marriages on Akshaya Tritiya
Several data centres planned in Maharashtras Konkan region with investments of Rs 1.43 lakh crore
MMRDA retains consultant for Metro 4, fixes blame on welder error
Reply by May 7 on relief to Agniveers, Bombay HC tells Centre
Maharashtra ministers inaugurate house for Pahalgam martyrs family
Pahalgam: In a poignant gesture of remembrance and solidarity, Maharashtra ministers led by Sanjay Shirsat and Yogesh Kadam on Tuesday inaugurated a newly constructed house for Syed Adil Hussain Shah, who lost his life during the Pahalgam terror attack while bravely saving tourists last year. The ceremony, held in the presence of residents and officials, []
Consultant hired for Thane Ring Metro project
Shiv Sena builds home for Pahalgam attack victim Adil Shah's family; Shinde fulfils promise
On the eve of the first anniversary of the Pahalgam terror attack, Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde handed over a newly constructed house to the family of local victim Adil Shah in south Kashmir. Shah, a ponywallah, was killed while trying to save tourists during the 2025 attack.
Maharashtra BJP Slams Kharges Terrorist Remark Against PM Modi
Mumbai, April 22: The Maharashtra BJP launched a fierce attack on Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge after he referred to Prime Minister Narendra Modi as a terrorist. Senior leaders from the state condemned Kharges statement as cheap, deplorable, and indicative of mental bankruptcy. BJP MLA R. Tamil Selvan stated, How can someone who has eradicated terrorists ... Read more Maharashtra BJP Slams Kharges Terrorist Remark Against PM Modi
Day before Pahalgam attack anniv, Shinde hands over new house to ponywallahs family
A new home was gifted to the family of a brave ponywallah, Syed Adil Hussain Shah, who died saving tourists in Pahalgam. Maharashtra Deputy CM Eknath Shinde virtually handed over the house, built by Shiv Sena, honoring Shah's sacrifice. The family expressed pride and gratitude for the support received.
House handed over to family of Adil Shah who died saving tourists in Pahalgam
Hapatnar (Aishmuqam), Apr 21:A newly constructed house was handed over on Tuesday to the family of Syed Adil Shah, a pony operator killed while saving tourists during last years Pahalgam terror attack. Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde inaugurated it via video conferencing. Shah was killed in the Baisaran meadows on April 22, 2025, when he tried to rescue tourists during the attack that left 25 people dead and several others injured. Following the incident, Shinde announced financial assistance of Rs 5 lakh and pledged to build a house for Shahs family, who had been living in modest conditions. On the first anniversary of the attack, a team of Maharashtra Ministers and Shiv Sena leaders attended the inauguration ceremony in Hapatnar, near Aishmuqam, as the family prepared to move into the new house. Cabinet ministers Sanjay Shirsat and Yogesh Kadam led the ceremony, while Shinde joined virtually. Praising Shahs bravery, Shinde described him as a national hero. Words fall short of describing Adils valour. He sacrificed his life for humanity, rising above caste and religion. I salute his parents and assure them of our continued support, Shinde said addressing those assembled to pay tributes. He described the house as a token of love for the family. The gift may be small, but the message is big, he said. Shahs family expressed gratitude for the support extended to them. We are thankful to Eknath Shinde for his support. He ensured that we have a new house, Shahs father, Haider Shah, said. Other Shiv Sena leaders present on the occasion included Abhijeet Adsul, Baji Rao Chauhan, Abhinandan Kopkar, Ashwani Kumar Gupta, and Muhammad Shafi Magray, along with Sarhad NGO president Sanjay Nahar.
Haryana Crowned Champion at Senior National Rugby Sevens Championship
Rajgir, April 22: In a thrilling finale of the 2026 Senior National Rugby Sevens Championship held in Rajgir, Bihar, Haryana emerged victorious, defeating Maharashtra 17-12 to claim the mens title. This marks a remarkable comeback for Haryana, who finished as runners-up last year. The final match, hosted at the State Sports Complex in Rajgir, showcased ... Read more Haryana Crowned Champion at Senior National Rugby Sevens Championship
A year after tragedy, Pahalgam slowly returns to life
Pahalgam, Apr 21:A year after a tragedy brought life here to a standstill, the sound of footsteps has returned to Pahalgam - soft at first, but steady enough to signal change. Markets are lit again, pony hooves echo along familiar trails, and small groups of tourists pause to take in the snow-clad peaks and cool spring air. Along the banks of the Lidder River, visitors sit quietly, soaking in the calm. We just sat by the river for hours. There is a strange peace here. It makes you forget everything else, said Ratnesh Kumar, 40, a tourist from Uttar Pradesh. On April 22 last year, a deadly terror attack in the Baisran meadows, about 6 km from the main market, left 25 tourists dead and a local pony operator, leaving behind grief that rippled across Kashmir and beyond. In the months that followed, the famed resort fell silent. Hotels emptied, bookings vanished, and livelihoods tied to tourism collapsed almost overnight. For six months, there was nothing here, said Ismail, a pony handler, gently steadying his horse. Not a single visitor. Now even a few tourists feel like hope returning. That hope, though fragile, is visible. Visitors have begun to trickle back, moving through the market and venturing to Aru Valley and Betaab Valley, destinations that had remained closed for over two months after the attack. Baisran meadows, however, remains shut. Many tourists say it is the people, as much as the place, that has brought them here. We dont feel scared, said Pankaj, a visitor from Maharashtra traveling with his family. Everyone, from drivers to shopkeepers has been incredibly kind. There is a sense of care everywhere. Shradha, visiting from Kolkata with her family, said the warmth feels personal. People dont just serve you here, they look out for you, she said. You can feel the sincerity. Even those who recall the tragedy say their experience has reshaped their perception. Yes, what happened was heartbreaking, Shradha said. But places like Pahalgam need people to come back. The way locals have welcomed us makes us feel at home. For business owners, each arriving visitor carries meaning beyond numbers. We are offering Kehwa and snacks, free, said Sabzar Ahmad, who runs a restaurant in the town. This is our way of telling tourists they are safe, that they are wanted here. Some locals even opened their homes in the aftermath of the attack, offering shelter and reassurance to stranded visitors. Hotels, though no longer empty, are still far from full. Bookings are around 30 percent compared to last year, said hotelier Ibrahim Raina. But the important thing is that people are returning. We are doing everything to make them feel secure. For many residents, the revival is not just economic; it is deeply personal. Kashmiris are known for their hospitality, said Umar Wani, a local resident. Violence is not who we are. We want the world to see our real face. Crowds remain thin, the pace slower, and memories fresh. But in Pahalgam, even the smallest return - a conversation, a cup of kehwa, a pony ride through the valley feels like a step forward. A year after the trafedy, the town is slowly returning to life.
