nagaland

Modi-Pope Connect In Kerala: BJP's Christian MLAs From Northeast To Conduct Door-To-Door Campaign

At least 18 Christian MLAs from three BJP-ruled or BJP-allied states including Goa, Nagaland and Manipur are set to begin a coordinated outreach in 37 key Christian-dominated seats

Naga community bans Pangolin hunting in Nagaland

The Sangtam Naga tribal body has passed a resolution to protect pangolins. This is a significant step for conservation in Northeast India. The resolution reinforces the prohibition of pangolin hunting and trade. It strengthens community accountability mechanisms. This initiative is part of a project countering pangolin trafficking. It highlights the growing strength of community-led conservation efforts.

Tripura tourist missing in Nagaland found dead

Firefighters combating the ongoing wildfire in Dzkou Valley found the body of Pranab Das

Centre likely to appoint a Minister of State for Home Affairs to fast-track Naga peace talks

Naga peace talks: During the meeting with the Union Home Minister, Nagaland MPs Supongmeren Jamir (Lok Sabha) and Phangnon Konyak (Rajya Sabha) also participated as members of the Political Affairs Committee (PAC) Sub-Committee.

Centre, Nagaland, ENPO agree on Frontier Nagaland body: What changes with the FNTA pact

Historic Frontier Nagaland agreement reflects peace, inclusive growth: PM Modi

A historic tripartite agreement has been signed for the Frontier Nagaland Territorial Authority. This accord aims to enhance development in Eastern Nagaland. The agreement reflects a commitment to peace and inclusive growth in the Northeast. It will pave the way for the creation of the authority for six districts.

Centre, Nagaland govt sign pact with ENPO; Frontier Nagaland Territorial Authority to be formed

A significant agreement has been signed between the Government of India, Nagaland, and the Eastern Nagaland Peoples Organisation. This pact establishes the Frontier Nagaland Territorial Authority for six eastern districts. The arrangement aims to boost development through financial autonomy and enhanced decision-making. This move is expected to accelerate infrastructure growth and economic empowerment in the region.

Autonomy pact inked for 6 Nagaland districts

As part of the arrangement, there will be devolution of powers relating to 46 subjects to FNTA, which will cover the districts of Tuensang, Mon, Kiphire, Longleng, Noklak and Shamator. The autonomy and greater say will address the long-standing grievances of ENPO over lack of equitable development in eastern Nagaland districts.

Tripartite agreement signed for creation of Frontier Nagaland TA

Shah launches Bharat Taxi platform NEW DELHI, Feb 5: The Centre Thursday signed a tripartite agreement with the Nagaland Government and the Eastern Nagaland Peoples Organisation for the formation of Frontier Nagaland Territorial Authority, a long standing demand for a new administrative body within the state aimed at addressing the demands of eastern Nagaland. Follow the Daily Excelsior channel on WhatsApp The agreement was signed in the presence of Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio and Union Home Minister Amit Shah, [] The post Tripartite agreement signed for creation of Frontier Nagaland TA appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Rs 3,200 crore stuck in Northeast projects; Assam tops unpaid list

State-wise figures show Assam topping the list with Rs 1,012.87 crore pending across 35 projects, followed by Manipur (Rs 441.38 crore), Nagaland (Rs 406.09 crore) and Arunachal Pradesh (Rs 395.37 crore). Other states with large unpaid amounts include Tripura (Rs 308.71 crore), Mizoram (Rs 275.81 crore), Meghalaya (Rs 258.05 crore) and Sikkim (Rs 107.90 crore).

Central Govt, Nagaland Govt, ENPO Sign Agreement to Form FNTA

New Delhi: In a landmark step towards realizing Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modis vision of a peaceful and prosperous North East, the Government of India, Government of Nagaland, and the Eastern Nagaland Peoples Organisation (ENPO) signed a historic agreement in New Delhi today. The accord, signed in the presence of Union Home Minister Shri Amit [] The post Central Govt, Nagaland Govt, ENPO Sign Agreement to Form FNTA appeared first on Northlines .

Centre, Nagaland govt and ENPO sign agreement to create Frontier Nagaland Territorial Authority

Centre, Nagaland Govt, Naga Tribes Body Sign Pact To Create Frontier Nagaland Territorial Authority

Central Government, Nagaland and ENPO signed a pact in New Delhi to create the Frontier Nagaland Territorial Authority, empowering 6 eastern districts for accelerated development.

Centre signs tripartite MoU with Nagaland govt, ENPO for creation of FNTA

Centre-Nagaland pact: The agreement was signed in presence of Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio and Union Home Minister Amit Shah, who said the Centre will extend all help and fulfil all its responsibilities for the development of eastern Nagaland.

Sunmeister Energy: Engineering Reliable Power and Energy Solutions for Indian Realities

, where temperatures plunge to -50°C and conditions become barely livable for humans, a Sunmeister solar hybrid generator operates in silence powering communications and essential equipment through conditions that would defeat most machines.   Sunmeister Energy- Engineering Reliable Power and Energy Solutions for Indian Realities From coastal farmland to Himalayan peaks, this is what Sunmeister Energy has spent a decade building: solar hybrid power that people never have to think about. Starting with the right question Founded in Chennai in 2014, Sunmeister began not with solar panels but with a deeper question: How do you make power and energy truly dependable , across India's diverse terrains and regardless of grid conditions? The answer led to a storage-first philosophy that would define everything the company built. Rather than treating solar as a standalone solution, Sunmeister engineered holistic solar hybrid power and energy systems intelligently combining solar generation, battery storage, grid power, and generators into ecosystems that think for themselves. These systems switch seamlessly between power sources, protect sensitive equipment, and keep critical loads running regardless of external conditions. The panels matter, certainly. But they're one instrument in an orchestra, not a solo act. Holistic, not standalone A solar panel on a roof is just the beginning. True energy independence requires a complete ecosystem - generation, storage, backup, monitoring, and intelligent management working together. Sunmeister designs holistic power and energy solutions where every component serves the whole. Batteries store excess solar generation for use after dark. Inverters manage the flow between solar, grid, and backup sources. Smart monitoring tracks performance and anticipates maintenance needs. The result isn't a collection of parts, it's an integrated system engineered for reliability across every condition. This holistic approach means clients don't worry about individual components. They simply have power when they need it. A problem-solving approach Every Sunmeister project starts with listening. What are the critical loads? What are the site conditions? What does reliability actually mean for this client? The team works backwards - designing systems that meet specific requirements rather than offering off-the-shelf configurations. A healthcare centre in Nagaland has different needs than a factory in Chennai or a farmhouse in Odisha. When hybrid generators were needed for forward posts at high altitudes , or marine applications. Sunmeister's team spent weeks understanding extreme cold conditions refining designs for reliability at -50°C. When farmers needed cold storage that could survive monsoons, Sunmeister developed India's first fully electric, hybrid solar cold rooms - zero-diesel and now deployed across Bihar, Madhya Pradesh, and Odisha. India's leading Victron Energy partner Sunmeister is India's foremost distributor and solution provider for Victron Energy - a Dutch power electronics company with nearly five decades of experience in marine, off-grid, and mission-critical applications. It's technology trusted on ocean-crossing yachts and Antarctic research stations. As authorised distributors, Sunmeister provides access to the full Victron product range. As design and solution providers, the team engineers complete systems tailored to Indian conditions. As service partners, they deliver installation, commissioning, and ongoing maintenance. Remote monitoring through Victron's VRM platform provides real-time visibility into system performance. Issues are identified and addressed before they become problems. Designed for India Global technology alone wasn't enough. Every component and installation practice had to be adapted for Indian conditions: summers, coastal humidity, fine dust, monsoon rains, voltage fluctuations. Over a decade of on-ground experience shaped an approach where nothing is assumed and everything is engineered for resilience. Today, with over 600 installations operational and failure rate under 0.1%, Sunmeister has earned a reputation for solar hybrid systems that simply work—day after day, year after year. Trusted across sectors The company's journey has taken it from Chennai rooftops to healthcare centres in Nagaland, from the National Blind School to the French Consulate in Puducherry. The client portfolio spans homes, commercial establishments, factories, farms, hospitals, educational institutions, government bodies, development organisations including UNDP and UNICEF, and defence installations. What unites them: power they can count on, every single time. Engineering for the long term Sunmeister doesn't compete on being the cheapest. The focus is on lowest total cost of ownership, holistic solar hybrid systems engineered for 15–25 years of service life, backed by warranties that match. At its core, Sunmeister Energy is built on a simple belief: power and energy should be something people never have to worry about. Not during monsoons. Not at -50°C. Not when everything depends on it. About Sunmeister Energy Pvt. Ltd. Sunmeister Energy is a Chennai-based solar hybrid power and energy solutions company founded in 2014. As India's leading Victron Energy distributor and solution provider, the company designs, installs, and maintains holistic solar, storage, and hybrid power and energy systems across India and international markets. www.sunmeister.in  | hello@sunmeister.in | WhatsApp: +91 9600763493 | 044 4011 4424

MATECIA Exhibition and SURFACES REPORTER Architecture Event to Spotlight the Rise of East & Northeast India in Kolkata

India’s leading building materials exhibition, MATECIA Exhibition (Materials & Products for Construction, Interiors & Architecture) - a premier Indian trade exhibition for building materials, interior products, furniture, and design—along with SURFACES REPORTER, one of India’s most respected architecture and design media platforms, is set to host the largest-ever confluence of architecture, interiors, and building materials for East & Northeast India. The three-day event will be held from 30 January to 1 February 2026 at Biswa Bangla Mela Prangan (BBMP), opposite Science City in Kolkata, with National Award-winning actor, motivational speaker and founder of Ashish Vidyarthi & Associates, Mr. Ashish Vidyarthi, as the chief guest.   MATECIA Exhibition and SURFACES REPORTER Architecture Event to Spotlight the Rise of East & Northeast India in Kolkata   This event will bring together over 150+ top architecture and design firms, interior designers, developers, dealers, brands, and channel partners from 12+ states across East and Northeast India, from Jharkhand, Bihar, West Bengal, Odisha, Assam, Meghalaya, Nagaland, Manipur, Mizoram, Tripura, Chhattisgarh, Arunachal Pradesh, and Sikkim,  positioning Kolkata as a vital cultural and regional bridge while reinforcing the scale, diversity and creative strength of the regional design ecosystem.   Speaking on the vision behind the initiative, Verticaa Dvivedi, Director, Surfaces Reporter Architecture Event , said, “For far too long, East and Northeast India have been perceived as slow or difficult markets—regions many hesitate to enter, assuming they are not easily reachable. What often gets overlooked is the exceptional depth of architectural thinking emerging from these regions. Designers here work with climate, context, and culture not as constraints, but as strengths. In many ways, the rest of India has a lot to learn from them. Through the Surfaces Reporter Architecture Event – East & Northeast India, we aim to highlight, promote, and amplify this outstanding body of work. This edition is not an arrival—it is the first page of a much larger national narrative.”   Spread across over 1,50,000 sq. ft., the event will feature 100+ leading interior and surface brands and bring together 200+ architects and interior designers showcasing over 500 landmark projects, welcoming an estimated 14,000–16,000 visitors from 100+ towns and cities.   The three-day event will commence with its inauguration on Thursday, 30 January 2026, from 10:30 AM onwards. A key highlight of the platform will be Surfaces Reporter Salutes – Architecture & Design Honours, scheduled for 31 January 2026 from 4:00 PM onwards. As the first collective regional recognition initiative dedicated exclusively to East and Northeast India, the honours will celebrate around 100 leading architects and interior designers, the creative forces behind more than 500 of the region’s most notable projects, recognising excellence across residential, commercial, hospitality, institutional and urban design.   The lamp lighting ceremony and opening address will be led by Mr. Rajesh Mittal, President, FIPPI and CMD, Greenply Industries Ltd; Mr. Surinder Arora, President, ILMA and Managing Director, Virgo Industries Ltd; Mr. Ramesh Bagla, President, CTMA; and Ms. Meenakshi Ganeshan, Deputy Director General, BIS, East Zone. They will be joined by Mr. Manoj Lohia of Merino Industries Ltd, Mr. Joydeep Chitlangia of Duroply, Mr. Vishal Dokania of Durian, Mr. Rushil Thakkar of Rushil Décor, Mr. Gajanan Munka of Saburi Plywood, Mr. Gaurav Bagla, President, BTIA, Mr. Vikas Khemka, Vice President, BTMA, Mr. M.P. Singh, former Director, IWST and FIPPI, and Mr. J. Ahuja of ILMA.   Emphasising the material and market perspective, Pragat Dvivedi, Director, MATECIA Exhibition , added, “2026 will mark the emergence of East and Northeast India as serious growth markets. These regions are witnessing rapid urban development, infrastructure expansion, and a new generation of design-conscious professionals. MATECIA Exhibition’s presence here reflects our belief that the future of India’s building materials market will also be equally driven by East and Northeast India.”   The event will also be graced by esteemed dignitaries from the architectural fraternity, including Ar. Sunil Maniramka of Maniramka & Associates, Ar. Rupande Shah of Rupande Shah & Associates, Ar. Monica Khosla Bhargava of Kham Consultants, Ar. Amber Chandgothia of Amber Creations, Ar. J.P. Agrawal of Agrawal & Agrawal Architects, and Ar. Bipratip Dhar of Epsilon. Also present will be Ar. Atul Saraf of Atulya Architects, Ranchi, President, IIA Jharkhand, along with members of IIA Jharkhand; Ar. Bapilu Chai, Member, Arunachal Architects Association, along with members; Ar. Frederick Malsawmzuala, President, Mizoram Architects Forum, along with members; and Ar. Nokranglong Jamir, Vice President, Association of Nagaland Architects, along with members.   The event will also feature India Interior Retailing (IIR), a knowledge platform that brings industry and interior retail leaders together, creating a high-energy space for learning, networking, and growth. In addition, the Surfaces Reporter SHOWCASE will provide a special presentation zone where brands present and architects review, offering an excellent opportunity for interaction and collaboration between designers and manufacturers.   The MATECIA Exhibition & SURFACES REPORTER Architecture Event – East & Northeast India is set to redefine how the region is viewed by the industry and the nation, marking a decisive step in reshaping national perceptions and bringing the East and Northeast India’s design excellence firmly into the national spotlight.   www.MATECIA Exhibition.com   About MATECIA EXHIBITION MATECIA is a business exhibition in India that connects Exhibitors & Sponsors with Architects, Interior Retailers, Designers, Distributors, Agents, Builders, Government agencies, Project Consultants, Channel Partners and Dealers in the Building Material and Interior Products industry.   It is a flagship initiative of Bigsea Marcom India Pvt. Ltd., a 25-year-old media and communications company, supported by Knowledge Partners SURFACES REPORTER®, PLY REPORTER® and FURNITURE DESIGN & TECHNOLOGY. About SURFACES REPORTER SURFACES REPORTER® is India’s leading media platform for interiors, architecture, building materials and the business of design, with over 11 years of industry presence. As India’s first content platform focused exclusively on products and materials for building and interiors, SURFACES REPORTER® is committed to informing, guiding and connecting architects, interior designers, developers and industry experts who are shaping the future of the built environment.   SURFACES REPORTER® reaches a wide and growing audience through its bi-monthly print circulation of 28,000 copies, 150,000 e-zine subscriptions and a readership of over 450,000 across platforms.

Nagaland: Wildfire erupts in southern Dzukou Valley, over 30 trekkers evacuated

All trekking activities in the Dzukou Valley, from both the Jakhama and Viswema entry points, have been temporarily suspended

Rare New Flowering Plant Discovered In Nagaland's Community Protected Forest

In a striking reminder that India's biodiversity continues to reveal new surprises even in the 21st century, a community-protected forest in Nagaland has yielded a previously unknown species of flowering plant

West Bengal run riot

Agencies Assam Defending champions West Bengal began their campaign in the 79th National Football Championship for Santosh Trophy with a 40 win over Nagaland in a Group A match at the Dhakuakhana Stadium. The 33-time champions struck early through Robi Hansda, who headed home from close range in the second minute after meeting Juweel Ahmed []

Birth certificate now sole proof for admissions, jobs in Nagaland

Nagaland now requires birth certificates for school admissions and government jobs. This new rule applies to all official services. The Nagaland Registration of Births and Deaths (Amendment) Rules, 2024, are now in effect. Birth certificates will serve as the only proof of identity for various purposes. Citizens must ensure timely registration of births.

Apple leaf waste yields green anti-corrosion solution for metals

The eco-friendly corrosion inhibitor was the outcome of a collaborative study by scientists from Nagaland University and the University of Science and Technology Beijing

'People From Northeast Are Not Momo': Nagaland Minister Condemns Tripura Student's Killing

Nagaland Minister Temjen Imna condemned the killing of a Tripura student in Dehradun, stressing Northeast states are an inseparable part of India.

We Are Not Momo: Nagaland Minister On Tripura Student's Killing

Nagaland Minister Temjen Imna Along on Monday strongly reacted to the alleged racial attack on a Tripura student in Dehradun, asserting that the North Eastern states are an inseparable and integral part of India.

Assam marks 'anguished' Christmas celebration after VHP, Bajrang Dal activists vandalise school, shops; 4 arrested

GUWAHATI: People in Assam marked Christmas with what was described as an anguished celebration, a day after members of right wing extremist groups Vishwa Hindu Parishad and Bajrang Dal vandalised and set fire to Christmas decorations at a diocesan school in Nalbari district. According to an official statement, Nalbari police on Thursday arrested four persons, based on a written complaint lodged by Fr Baiju Sebastian, principal of St Marys English School, Panigaon, in Nalbari district. A case has been registered under Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) sections 189(2) (unlawful assembly), 324(3) (mischief), 324(4) (mischief causing significant property damage), 326(f) (mischief by causing damage through fire, etc), 329(3) (criminal trespass), 351(2) (criminal intimidation) and 61(2) (criminal conspiracy). According to the complaint lodged by the principal, some unknown miscreants unlawfully entered the school premises and vandalised the campus, causing damage to outer decorations, serial lights, plant pots and other articles. The complaint further stated that the damaged items were later set on fire. Videos circulating on social media showed the attackers chanting Jai Shree Ram slogans and warning the school against holding Christmas celebrations on its premises. Subsequently, shops selling Christmas items in Nalbari town were targeted, with a few items set on fire. Allen Brooks, spokesperson of the Assam Christian Forum, told this newspaper that people observed an anguished celebration on Thursday as insecurity among the community was overwhelming. Condemning the incidents, the forum said, Videos circulating on social media clearly identify the perpetrators This act wounds religious sentiments, spreads hatred, and violates constitutional rights to freedom of religion, threatening Assams peace and harmony. It added, This is not Assams culture, and not true to Assams ethos of unity inspired by Srimanta Shankar Dev. We urge the government and the society to uphold secularism. In the rest of the Northeast, Christmas was celebrated with pomp and gaiety. Meghalaya, Nagaland and Mizoram are Christian-majority states, while Assam, Arunachal Pradesh and Manipur have sizeable Christian populations.

New Year's Eve: How Much Alcohol Can You Keep At Home? | State-Wise List

Alcohol storage limits and legal drinking ages in India vary by state, with prohibition in Bihar, Gujarat, Nagaland, Mizoram, and Lakshadweep, and strict excise laws elsewhere

Skip Japan: This Winter, an Indian state is quietly stealing the spotlight with its stunning cherry blossoms

Discover India's own cherry blossom season in Nagaland and Meghalaya. Unlike Japan's spring blooms, these Himalayan cherries flower in winter, from late October to early December. Kohima in Nagaland transforms into a pink and white spectacle. Meghalaya offers subtle trails for observant travellers. Plan your trip for a unique, uncrowded natural wonder.

65-Year-Old Man Drives Mahindra Thar Onto Railway Track In Nagaland, Arrested

After the incident, Nagaland Police has issued a public advisory warning that driving on railway tracks is strictly illegal and poses a grave danger to life and property.

Over 2,000 Anganwadi-cum-Creches in India: Minister in Rajya Sabha

NEW DELHI: To help working mothers provide due care and protection to their children, the Centre is operating over 2,000 Anganwadi-cum-Creches (AWCCs) in the country. In a written reply, Minister of State of Women and Child Development Savitri Thakur said there are 39,011 children beneficiaries across 2,820 AWCCs. Of the 2,820 AWCCs, Delhi has the most at 502, benefitting 2,590 children. Haryana has 290 AWCCs, benefitting 6426 children. It is followed by Nagaland, where 270 AWCCs are functional while 3122 are beneficiaries. Karnataka has 248 AWCCs, with 5837 beneficiaries, while Nagaland has 200 AWCCs with 4243 beneficiaries. The minister said, the WCD ministry has introduced the Palna Scheme under the Samarthya Vertical of Umbrella Mission Shakti for all States and UTs from April 1, 2022, to provide day-care facilities and protection to children. Governments sustained initiatives on education, skilling and employment of women have resulted in increased opportunities for their employment, and more and more women are now in gainful employment, working within or outside their homes. Lack of proper day-care services is often a deterrent for women to go out and work. Hence, there is an urgent need for improved quality and reach of day care services/crches for working women amongst all socio-economic groups both in the organised and unorganised sectors, she said. To address these difficulties faced by the working mothers in giving due child care and protection to their children, day-care crche facilities are being provided through the Palna Scheme, she added.

Bank Holiday on December 18: Are banks open or closed in your state? Check state-wise list here

December 2025 brings multiple bank holidays across India, especially in Meghalaya, Goa, Sikkim, Nagaland, Mizoram, and Manipur. Key closures include U Soso Tham's death anniversary in Meghalaya (December 18), Goa Liberation Day (December 19), Christmas celebrations (December 24-26), and more.

Queer children face maximum discrimination, bullying at homes, schools: Survey

A recent survey of over 900 LGBTQ+ individuals by a Kolkata-based organisation, 'Bridge', which works for the rights of the community across Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, Manipur, Nagaland, Odisha, Jharkhand and West Bengal, reported that most bullying happens between the ages of 12 and 15 years

Wildfire Erupts in Nagaland's Dzukou Valley

The team has been directed to immediately reach the fire site, assess the situation, and mobilise all available resources to contain any further spread of the fire.

Major wildfire breaks out in Nagalands Western Dzukou Valley

The fire was first spotted by a tourist guide, who immediately alerted the Khonoma village authorities and the district administration

Meghalaya seal 109-run victory over Nagaland

Cooch Behar Trophy By Our Reporter Shillong, Dec 11: Meghalaya required around 90 minutes to remove the remaining four Nagaland batters and win their U-19 mens Cooch Behar Trophy 2025-26 plate group match by a convincing 109 runs on the morning of the fourth and final day at the MCA Ground here. Resuming on 208/6 []

Protests in Nagaland over Citizenship Amendment Act

NESO secretary general Mutsikhoyo Yhobu said the students' bodies had opposed the law since its inception

Angkit, Apandanka strike late as Meghalaya close in on victory

Cooch Behar Trophy By Our Reporter Shillong, Dec 10: Meghalaya are four wickets away from victory against Nagaland in the U-19 mens Cooch Behar Trophy 2025-26 plate group after a crucial last 45 minutes of the third day saw the home side seize the upper hand on Wednesday. Set an imposing target of 375 to []

Four injured in blast during Hornbill festival in Nagaland

The incident occurred on the premises of a morung, belonging to the Sangtam tribe, on December 9, when the gunpowder caught fire and burst, an official said

Meghalaya hold advantage but Nagaland still in contention

Cooch Behar Trophy By Our Reporter Shillong, Dec 9: Meghalaya are in control of their U-19 mens Cooch Behar Trophy 2025-26 plate group match as they lead Nagaland by 284 at stumps on the second day at the MCA Ground here on Tuesday. Sameer Choudhury was responsible for much of Meghalayas success as he claimed []

Chef Joel Basumatari Delivers Authentic Naga Flavours to Sheraton Hyderabad

Chef Joel Basumatari leads Naga Culinary Trails at Feast from 11 to 14 December, bringing modernised interpretations of Nagaland's food heritage to Hyderabad.

Severe cold grips north India; IMD warns of cold wave, fog across multiple states

NEW DELHI: Cold conditions prevailed across north India on Sunday, with the Amarnath yatra base camp being the coldest recorded place in Jammu and Kashmir at minus 4.3 degrees Celsius and parts of Punjab, Haryana, and Rajasthan reporting minimum temperatures between three and seven degrees Celsius. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) said cold wave conditions were very likely to prevail in isolated pockets over Madhya Pradesh, Vidarbha in Maharashtra, Chhattisgarh, and Odisha on Monday and Tuesday. In Delhi, the minimum temperature was recorded at eight degrees, up from 6.8 degrees a day ago and yet 1.6 notches below normal. The maximum temperature was 24.7 degrees Celsius, 0.1 notch below normal, while the relative humidity was 92 per cent in the morning. For Monday, the weather department forecast a minimum of 10 degrees Celsius and a maximum of 25 degrees Celsius, with mist expected. Pollution levels in Delhi remained in the very poor category on Sunday, prolonging the spell of toxic air that has hung over its residents for several weeks now. The city logged a 24-hour average AQI of 308. According to the Central Pollution Control Board, an AQI between 0 and 50 is classified good, 51 and 100 satisfactory, 101 and 200 moderate, 201 and 300 poor, 301 and 400 very poor and 401 and 500 severe. Further in the north, the night temperatures in Kashmir rose by several degrees but stayed below the freezing point, officials said. The Pahalgam resort in south Kashmir, which serves as the base camp for the annual Amarnath yatra, was the coldest recorded place in Jammu and Kashmir as the minimum settled at a low of minus 4.3 degrees Celsius. The minimum temperature in Srinagar -- the summer capital of Jammu and Kashmir -- settled at minus 0.9 degrees Celsius, a rise of 3.2 degrees compared to the previous night. The gateway town to the valley, Qazigund, recorded a low of minus one degree Celsius, while the minimum settled at minus 0.8 degree Celsius in north Kashmir's Kupwara, and 1.1 degrees Celsius in south Kashmir's Kokernag, according to officials. The meteorological department said the weather would remain generally cloudy but dry on Sunday, and a brief spell of light snowfall at isolated places in the higher reaches of north and central Kashmir is likely on December 8. In Himachal Pradesh, The IMD predicted dense fog in parts of the state until Wednesday. A yellow alert for dense fog was also issued in parts of the reservoir area of the Bhakra dam in Bilaspur district and over some parts of the Balh valley in Mandi district during early morning till Monday. In Punjab, Faridkot remained the coldest place, with the minimum temperature settling at 4.4 degrees Celsius, while in Haryana, Narnaul saw the lowest temperature at 4.6 degrees Celsius, according to the local meteorological department. Chandigarh, the common capital of the two states, recorded a minimum temperature of 8.2 degrees Celsius. In Punjab, Bathinda and Gurdaspur recorded a minimum temperature of 4.6 degrees Celsius, while Ferozepur recorded 6 degrees, Amritsar 6.1 degrees, Ludhiana 6.8 degrees, and Patiala 8.9 degrees. In Haryana, Bhiwani recorded a low of six degrees, Hisar 6.2 degrees, Sirsa 6.6 degrees, Karnal seven degrees, Rohtak 7.8 degrees, and Ambala 9.8 degrees. Rajasthan, similarly, reeled under intense cold, the Meteorological Centre here said. Fatehpur in the Sikar district continued to record the lowest minimum temperature, albeit at 3.5 degrees Celsius, slightly up from 2.3 degrees a day ago. According to the weather department, Lunkaransar (Bikaner) recorded a low of 5 degrees Celsius, followed by Dausa at 6 degrees, Churu at 6.3 degrees, Vanasthali (Tonk) at 6.4 degrees and Jhunjhunu at 7.2 degrees Celsius on Sunday morning. The department said a fresh but weak western disturbance is likely to cause partly cloudy skies in some parts of the state over the next few days. Under its influence, the minimum temperature is expected to rise by two to three degrees Celsius, providing relief from the cold wave, it said. Meanwhile, in Jharkhand, eight districts recorded minimum temperatures below 10 degrees Celsius, the IMD said, noting a cold wave in parts of the state. Gumla recorded the lowest temperature in the state at 3.5 degrees Celsius up from three degrees Celsius while Khunti logged five degrees Celsius, the IMD weather bulletin stated. The minimum temperature in Jharkhand's capital, Ranchi, was 7.5 degrees Celsius, while Daltonganj recorded 6.5 degrees and Jamshedpur recorded 9.6 degrees Celsius. Deputy Director of the Ranchi Meteorological Centre, Abhishek Anand, said, North-westerly winds prevailing in the lower tropospheric levels over Jharkhand have caused the drop in mercury. Dry weather conditions are likely to prevail across the state over the next five days.The minimum temperature may rise by 2-3 degrees Celsius during the next 72 hours, he added. In West Bengal, the mercury dipped below the 10-degree mark for the first time this winter in the state's plains with Sriniketan in Birbhum districts recording a minimum temperature of 9.8 degrees Celsius on Sunday, the IMD said. Its forecast for West Bengal suggested dry weather across all districts of West Bengal for the next week, with shallow to moderate fog likely in the northern districts. Darjeeling was the coldest in the hills at 6.2 degrees Celsius, while the other Himalayan tourist town of Kalimpong was warmer at 10.5 degrees Celsius. The other places which recorded low night temperatures are Alipurduar (11 degrees), Kalyani (11.4 degrees), Purulia (11.4 degrees) and Panagarh (11.9 degrees). Kolkata recorded a minimum temperature of 15.2 degrees Celsius, the IMD said, forecasting mist in the morning on Monday. IMD further predicted dense fog conditions in isolated pockets of Assam, Meghalaya, Nagaland, Manipur, Mizoram, and Tripura between December 8 and 12. It was also very likely in parts of west Madhya Pradesh on Monday and in Odisha until Tuesday. In west India, a gradual fall by two to three degrees over the next three-four days is expected, and no significant change is anticipated thereafter, the IMD said.

Scindia unveils Rs 645-crore development package for Nagaland at Hornbill Festival

Union Minister Jyotiraditya M. Scindia attended the Hornbill Festival in Nagaland. He participated in a traditional stone-pulling ceremony. The Minister unveiled a significant development package for the state. Projects worth over Rs 202 crore were inaugurated. Foundation stones were laid for new initiatives valued at Rs 443 crore. This marks a total investment exceeding Rs 645 crore.

Jana Gana Mana echoes in Nagaland's 26th Hornbill Festival

Nagaland's 26th Hornbill Festival has begun. The event marks the state's 63rd Statehood Day. It features 18 tribes showcasing traditions. Six countries and Arunachal Pradesh are partners. The festival includes cultural shows and a photo fest. A World War II Peace Rally also took place. The Hornbill Festival runs until December 10.

Punjab records highest groundwater extraction in India, says CGWB report

CHANDIGARH: Groundwater extraction in the country is the highest in Punjab, followed by Rajasthan and Haryana, according to the latest National Compilation of Dynamic Ground Water Resources of India, 2025 report of the Central Ground Water Board (CGWB). The findings show that 25 per cent of the 6,762 total blocks in India have been categorised as over-exploited, critical or semi-critical, a situation concentrated in nine states, Punjab, Haryana, Rajasthan, Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Uttar Pradesh, Delhi and Puducherry. As per the report, groundwater extraction in Punjab stands at 156.36 per cent, the highest in the country, followed by Rajasthan at 147.11 per cent and Haryana at 136.75 per cent, all significantly above the national average of 60.63 per cent. At the national level, annual groundwater extraction has seen a marginal decline, from 27.66 billion cubic metres (BCM) in 2023 to 26.27 BCM last year. The total annual ground water recharge of Punjab has been assessed as 18.6 bcm and annual extractable ground water resource as 16.8 bcm. Out of total 153 assessment units including three urban areas taken for study, 111 assessment units (72.55 per cent) have been categorized as Over-exploited, 10 blocks (6.54 per cent) as Critical, 15 blocks (9.80 per cent) as Semi Critical and 17 blocks (11.11 per cent) as Safe, the report said. Similarly, out of 50175.27 square kilometers recharge worthy area of the state, 34294.3 sq km (68.35 per cent) area are under Over-Exploited, 4353.15 sq. km (8.68 per cent) under Critical, 4478.11 sq km (8.92 per cent) under Semi-critical and 7049.71sq km (14.05 per cent) under Safe category, reads the report. For Rajasthan, the report states,Out of the 302 assessment units (blocks and urban areas), 213 units (70.53 per cent) have been categorized as Over Exploited, 23 units (7.62 per cent) as Critical, 27 units (8.94 per cent) as Semi-Critical, 36 units (11.92 per cent) blocks as Safe and 3 units (0.99 per cent) as Saline. Similarly, out of 317010.74 sq km recharge worthy area of the state, 222266.46 sq km (70.11 per cent) area are under Over-Exploited, 19404.23 sq. km (6.12 per cent) under Critical, 22535.05 sq km (7.11 per cent) under Semi-critical, 43869.11 sq km (13.84 per cent) under Safe and 8935.89 sq km (2.82 per cent) area under Saline categories of assessment units. In Haryana, the situation is similar. While in Haryana, out of total 143 assessment units (blocks/Urban), 91 units (63.64 per cent) have been categorized as Overexploited, 6 units (4.20 per cent) as Critical, 15 units (10.49 per cent) as Semi Critical and 31 units (21.68 per cent) as Safe categories of assessment units. Similarly, out of 43,205.81 sq. km recharge worthy area of the State, 26,828.05 sq. km (62.09 per cent) area are under Over-Exploited, 1,170.46 sq. km (2.71 per cent) under Critical, 4,253.89 sq. km (9.85 per cent) under Semicritical, 10,953.42 sq. km (25.35 per cent) under Safe categories of assessment units, it added. The report assesses the total annual groundwater extraction of the entire country for 2025 at 247.22 bcm. Agriculture remains the largest consumer, accounting for 87 per cent, or 215.10 bcm, followed by 11 per cent for domestic use (27.89 bcm) and 2 per cent for industrial use (4.23 bcm). In the present assessment, total annual groundwater recharge has been pegged at 448.52 bcm, while the annual extractable groundwater resource stands at 407.75 bcm. The average stage of groundwater extraction at the national level is 60.63 per cent. Out of 6,762 blocks in the country, 730 units (10.80 per cent) are categorised as over-exploited, and 201 blocks (2.97 per cent) are classified as critical where extraction ranges from 90 to 100 per cent. Another 758 blocks (11.21 per cent) fall under the semi-critical category, while 4,946 units (73.14 per cent) are considered safe, with extraction below 70 per cent. Additionally, 127 blocks (1.88 per cent) have been listed as saline due to brackish or saline groundwater in phreatic aquifers. The report highlights that the percentage of over-exploited, critical and semi-critical blocks exceeding 25 per cent of total units is found only in nine states, Haryana, Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh, Punjab, Rajasthan, Tamil Nadu, Uttar Pradesh, Delhi and Puducherry. It attributes the situation to region-specific factors, Over-exploitation of ground water resources could be due to various region-specific reasons. The assessment units located in the north-western part of the country (particularly in the states of Punjab, Haryana, Delhi and Uttar Pradesh) have plenty of replenishable ground water resources but because of the over extraction beyond the annual ground water recharge, many of these units have become Over-exploited. Overexploited units are also common in the western part of the country, particularly in Rajasthan and Gujarat where the prevailing arid climate results in low recharge of ground water and hence stress on these sources, the report stated. It further adds, In peninsular India, over-exploited units are wide spread in Karnataka, Tamil Nadu and parts of Andhra Pradesh and Telangana which could be attributed mainly to the low storage and transmission capacities of aquifers of the hard rock terrains, which results in reduced availability of the resource. The report also notes that in Arunachal Pradesh, Delhi, Goa, Kerala, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, Tripura, Andaman and Nicobar, Chandigarh, Jammu and Kashmir, Ladakh and Lakshadweep, domestic groundwater extraction exceeds 40 per cent. Groundwater extraction stands between 90 and 100 per cent in Delhi, and between 70 and 90 per cent in Tamil Nadu and Puducherry. In most other states and Union Territories, including Andhra Pradesh, Assam, Bihar, Chhattisgarh, Goa, Gujarat, Himachal Pradesh, Jharkhand, Karnataka, Kerala, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, Odisha, Sikkim, Telangana, Tripura, Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, West Bengal, Andaman and Nicobar, Chandigarh, Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu, Jammu and Kashmir, Ladakh and Lakshadweep, extraction levels are around 70 per cent. The report concludes that compared to the Dynamic Ground Water Resource Assessment of 2024, the total annual groundwater recharge has marginally increased from 446.9 bcm to 448.52 bcm.

Cultural performance attract thousands of tourists at Hornbill Festival in Nagaland

Co-organiser M. Ababe Ezung announced that the 2025 edition features 97 photographers from across Nagaland

Raj Bhavan celebrates Statehood Day of Assam, Nagaland

By Our Reporter SHILLONG, Dec 2: The Statehood Day of Assam and Nagaland was celebrated at Raj Bhavan here on Tuesday, with Governor CH Vijayashankar underscoring the economic and cultural importance of the two states in the Northeastern region. Speaking at the Durbar Hall, the Governor said Assams expanding economic base and its role as []

Meghalaya Congress claims 'ONE' as BJP-RSS design

GUWAHATI: The Congress in Meghalaya claimed that One North East (ONE) is a BJP-RSS design. The Northeast regional front was launched in the first week of November in New Delhi. Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma and Tripuras Tipra Motha Party (TMP) founder leader Pradyot Bikram Manikya Debbarma were at the forefront of its launch. Meghalaya Congress president Vincent H Pala claimed that the BJP had designed ONE following its realisation that the tribals in the Northeast disliked the saffron party. They have created an extra basket to ensure that people, who are anti-BJP, end up in ONE and do not go to the Congress, Pala, the former Shillong MP, said. Claiming that he overheard a conversation between BJP and RSS leaders at an airport, he said all those in ONE are the 'friends' of the BJP. Sangmas National Peoples Party (NPP) and Debbarmas TMP are BJP allies, and they have not shown any signs of severing ties. The BJP is a constituent of the NPP-headed Meghalaya government. Similarly, the TMP is a part of the BJP-led Tripura government. Former BJP national spokesperson Mmhonlumo Kikon, who is also a former Nagaland minister, and Peoples Party of Assam chief Daniel Langthasa, are two other leaders of ONE. Pala advised the people of the Northeast to be wary of ONE, reiterating that it is just another front of the BJP. 'Our strength lies in unity': Meghalaya CM Sangma, other Northeast leaders form united political entity ONE was constituted with an aim to highlight the issues of the Northeasts indigenous people and represent their voices in national politics. For too long, we, the younger generation leaders of the Northeast, have spoken about the same issues and concerns of our people, but from different platforms and political spaces, we have realised that our strength lies in unity, and that, it is time to give our people one collective voice, the quartet had stated in a joint statement after the Delhi announcement. They said they had resolved to carry forward their ideals by coming together under a shared vision for the future of the Northeast, taking inspiration from the vision and legacy of great leaders who fought selflessly for the identity and development of our land.

Over 25 lakh people living with HIV in India, second largest globally: Govt report

NEW DELHI : India has an estimated 25.61 lakh people living with HIV (PLHIV), the second largest number globally in 2024, although the annual HIV incidence rate remains very low in the country, according to a government report released on Monday to mark World AIDS Day. The India HIV Estimation 2025 technical report, released by Union Health Minister JP Nadda, states that in 202425, 73% of newly detected HIV-positive persons reported acquiring the infection through heterosexual transmission. This was followed by injecting drug use, which accounted for 11.5% of reported transmissions. Another 5.4% of cases were attributed to homosexual/bisexual transmission, while 3.5% were due to vertical transmission. The HIV epidemic in India continues to be low, with adult HIV prevalence at 0.20% in 2024. While overall prevalence is low, India has 25.61 lakh people living with HIV (PLHIV), the second largest PLHIV population globally. The annual HIV incidence rate also remains very low at 0.05 per 1,000 uninfected population, the report said. Of the total 25.61 lakh PLHIV, 13.97 lakh are males and 11.64 lakh are females. Maharashtra (3.99 lakh) has the highest PLHIV burden, followed by Andhra Pradesh (3.10 lakh) and Karnataka (2.91 lakh). Uttar Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Telangana, Bihar, Gujarat and Punjab also have estimated PLHIV figures ranging from one lakh to two lakh. Together, these nine states account for 74% of the total PLHIV burden in India, the annual report said. It added that the total PLHIV population in India in 2024 contributed 6.3% to the global HIV burden of 4.08 crore and 37.1% of the 69 lakh cases in the Asia-Pacific region. In 2024, Indias population living with HIV was second only to South Africas 78 lakh, owing to its population size, the report noted. HIV burden in South-East Asia remains substantial; 88,000 newly infected in 2024: WHO In 2024, around 64,470 new HIV infections and 32,160 AIDS-related deaths were estimated nationally, marking declines of 48.69% and 81.42%, respectively, compared to 2010. These reductions far exceeded the global averages of 40% and 54%, the report added. Highlighting Indias sustained progress under the National AIDS and STD Control Programme (NACP), Nadda reaffirmed the governments commitment to a rights-based, stigma-free, and inclusive HIV response. He emphasised that under NACP-V, access to prevention, testing, and treatment services has continued to expand, demonstrating strong and sustained momentum across key programme areas. Nadda said that between 2010 and 2024, new HIV infections declined by 48.7%, AIDS-related deaths by 81.4%, and mother-to-child transmission by 74.6%. Testing coverage increased from 4.13 crore in 202021 to 6.62 crore in 202425, while the number of people on treatment rose from 14.94 lakh to 18.60 lakh. Viral load testing also expanded significantlyfrom 8.90 lakh to 15.98 lakh tests. He noted that these achievements surpass global averages for the same period and reflect strong political commitment, sustained domestic investment, evidence-based programme strategies, and consistent community engagement. The report also found that AIDS-related mortality was highest in Manipur, Mizoram and Nagaland. However, it noted that AIDS-related deaths have declined between 2010 and 2024 in nearly all states and UTs except Chandigarh, Punjab, Arunachal Pradesh and Tripura, where more PLHIV died of AIDS-related causes in 2024 compared to 2010. Globally, annual AIDS-related deaths declined by 54% between 2010 and 2024. The report stated that two statesMizoram and Nagalandhad an HIV prevalence of more than 1%. It also highlighted a noticeable increasing trend in the prevalence of new infections in the northeastern states of Tripura, Arunachal Pradesh, Meghalaya and Assam, as well as in the northern state of Punjab, primarily driven by the rise in new infections. Nationally, annual new cases were estimated to decline by around 48.70% between 2010 and 2024, but increased by more than 400% in Arunachal Pradesh and Tripura. Similarly, in Punjab and Meghalaya, the annual new infections estimated for 2024 have nearly doubled compared to 2010. In 2024, 30 districts were estimated to have an adult HIV prevalence of 1% or more, with 29 of these located in Nagaland (11 districts), Mizoram (10), Manipur (5), Meghalaya (2) and Arunachal Pradesh (1). The only other district in this category is in Karnataka. Are fund cuts reversing the global fight against HIV?

'Rooted In Service, Courage And Compassion': PM Modi Extends Greetings On Nagaland Statehood Day

Home Minister Amit Shah also shared greetings to the people of Nagaland and hoped for peace, progress, and prosperity in the state.

December 2025 School Holidays: Full list of days educational institutes will remain closed; Christmas to winter break details here

December 2025 offers a mix of holidays and academic events for students across India. Uttar Pradesh schools close for winter break from December 20 to 31. Madhya Pradesh schools begin winter holidays around December 23. Christmas Day on December 25 is a nationwide holiday. Regional festivals like Hornbill in Nagaland and St Francis Xavier in Goa also occur.

Centre eases protected area permit rules for foreign visitors during Hornbill Festival

The Centre has relaxed the Protected Area Permit (PAP) regime for foreign visitors during Nagaland's Hornbill Festival, following repeated appeals from the state government. This decision aims to boost international participation in the 10-day cultural event, recognizing tourism's economic importance and the festival's significance.

Reception for Kerala tribal artistes in Meghalaya

The 15-member tribal team is in the Northeast to perform at the Hornbill Festival in Nagaland

Blood on his hands: TMC flays CEC Gyanesh Kumar, cites 40 SIR-related deaths in West Bengal

Amid rising political tensions over the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls in West Bengal, a Trinamool Congress delegation on Friday met the full Election Commission bench and alleged that at least 40 deaths linked to the exercise had occurred in the state, accusing the poll panel chief of having blood on his hands. A 10-member delegation, led by TMC Rajya Sabha leader Derek O'Brien, met the EC officials amid the ongoing SIR of electoral rolls in 12 states and Union territories, including West Bengal. The delegation consisted of Lok Sabha MPs Mahua Moitra, Satabdi Roy, Kalyan Banerjee, Pratima Mondal, Sajda Ahmed, and Rajya Sabha MPs Dola Sen, Mamata Thakur, Saket Gokhale, and Prakash Chik Barik. Speaking to reporters after the meeting, O'Brien said the party raised five questions, but Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Gyanesh Kumar did not give any answers. We started the meeting by stating that the CEC has blood on his hands. We raised five questions. After this, Kalyan Banerjee, Mahua Moitra, and Mamata Bala Thakur spoke and shared whatever they had to in about 40 minutes, O'Brien said. Then the CEC spoke uninterrupted for one hour. We were also not interrupted while we spoke, but we did not receive any answer to any of our five questions, he said. Fourth death of BLO reported in Bengal during SIR, incident triggers political row Moitra said the delegation shared with the CEC a list of 40 people whose deaths, they alleged, were linked to the SIR process. The commission, however, dismissed it as mere allegations, the Lok Sabha MP claimed. Meanwhile, O'Brien asserted that the TMC is not opposed to the concept of SIR, but is strongly opposed to the unplanned manner in which the CEC and EC are going about the job. Completely unplanned and heartless, he said about the SIR exercise. TMC RS MP Mamata Thakur also addressing the press conference, where she talked about the questions raised during meeting. If infiltrators are there, then why are Mizoram, Tripura, Arunachal, Nagaland not included (in SIR process), and only West Bengal is included? They say they are not voters and torture Bengalis across states. People think they are not speaking Bangla, and brand them Bangladeshis, the TMC MP asked. Raising doubts over the legitimacy of previous elections, Thakur added, If this voter list is wrong, are all the other votes (in previous elections) not valid? If this is not voter list is not correct then that voter list is also not correct. While raising the issue of Booth Level Officer's (BLO) deaths in West Bengal, she said that the ECI is ot accepting that the deaths are due to the SIR. Notably, Multiple have died in West Bengal during the SIR process. Earlier, Congress spokesperson Supriya Shrinate also claimed that 26 BLOs have died in 210 days, calling it murder in broad daylight. Because of SIR, 26 Booth Level Officers (BLOs) have died in 20 days. This is not some narrative but a harsh truth before the nation. Where is Gyanesh Kumar? The list for local body elections in Maharashtra has come out, showing the addresses of 200 people registered at two coaching institutes, where even a bird can't sit. Because of Rahul Gandhi, this country has received evidence and proof of vote theft, and neither Gyanesh Gupta nor the BJP has a single answer to those proofs, Shrinate said. She outlined the case of Gonda BLO Vipin Yadav, who died by suicide, further stating that his family said that he was under pressure to remove the names of backward class members from the voter list. (With inputs from ANI and PTI) 'Why is ECI hiding details?': TMC slams poll body over use of 'mysterious' AI app for SIR in Bengal

Air pollution levels across north India are significantly higher than national average: Report

CHANDIGARH: The air pollution levels across North India are significantly higher than the national average as per the latest report released by Centre for Research on Energy and Clean Air (CREA), an independent research organisation. The report stated that Delhi, along with Punjab, Assam and Tripura, was identified as a year-round pollution hotspot failing to meet PM 2.5 standard even during the monsoons. On the other hand, the southern states recorded the lowest values. The report titled, Beyond City Limits: A Satellite-Based PM-2.5 Assessment Across Indias Airsheds, States and Districts, stated that all the 23 districts of Punjab, 22 of Haryana and 12 of Himachal Pradesh exceeded the annual National Ambient Air Quality Standard (NAAQS) of 40 ug/m3 for PM 2.5 concentration last year. During summer, winter and post-monsoon periods, PM 2.5 concentrations exceeded the NAAQS limits in these states. During the monsoon, 15 out of 23 districts in Punjab, 5 out of 22 in Haryana and 2 out of 12 districts in Himachal Pradesh exceeded the air quality limit. It read, Delhi recorded the highest pollution levels with an annual mean PM 2.5 concentration of 101 g/m, 2.5 times the Indian standard and 20 times the World Health Organisation (WHO). The pollution crisis extends across northern India, with the average PM 2.5 concentrations in all states in these regions, including Delhi, Chandigarh, Haryana, Punjab, Uttar Pradesh, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, and Jammu & Kashmir, exceeding the National Ambient Air Quality Standard (NAAQS). This concentration of pollution aligns with their location in the Indo-Gangetic Plain. The eastern and northeastern states showed similarly concerning levels, with PM 2.5 average concentrations in Bihar, West Bengal, Jharkhand, Odisha, Assam, Meghalaya, Nagaland, Tripura, and Arunachal Pradesh all above the NAAQS. Among western states, the mean concentrations in Rajasthan and Gujarat exceeded the annual national standard, it added. While the southern states presented the lowest PM 2.5 values, Puducherry recorded the lowest concentration at 25 g/m, followed by Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Sikkim, Telangana, Kerala, and Andhra Pradesh. The report stated that Delhi consistently ranks as the most polluted city across all seasons, highlighting the capital's year-round air quality crisis. While Chandigarh appears in the top five during three seasons (winter, summer, and post-monsoon), West Bengal also ranks among the worst across the winter and post-monsoon seasons. Punjab and Haryana emerged as major air-pollution concerns, with Punjab during the monsoon and post-monsoon periods and Haryana during the summer and post-monsoon periods. The northeastern states present an unexpected pollution hotspot, with Assam and Tripura featuring in the top five in three seasons (winter, summer, and monsoon). Overall, 60 per cent of districts (447 out of 749) exceed the National Ambient Air Quality Standard (NAAQS) for annual PM 2.5. None of the districts met the World Health Organisation (WHO) guideline of less than 5 g/m. The most polluted districts are heavily concentrated in a few states, highlighting regional clustering of severe air quality issues. Delhi (11 districts) and Assam (11 districts) alone account for nearly half of the top 50, followed by Bihar (7) and Haryana (7). Other notable contributors include Uttar Pradesh (4), Tripura (3), Rajasthan (2), West Bengal (2), and single districts from Chandigarh, Meghalaya and Nagaland, it reads. It further added, Several states are in universal non-compliance, where all monitored districts exceed the NAAQS. These include Delhi, Assam, Punjab, Haryana, Chandigarh, Himachal Pradesh, Meghalaya, Tripura, and Jammu and Kashmir. Several other states show a large majority of districts breaching the norm, such as Bihar (37 of 38), West Bengal (22 of 23), Gujarat (32 of 33), Nagaland (11 of 12), Rajasthan (30 of 33), and Jharkhand (21 of 24). A second group shows mixed performance, where some districts meet the standard but many continue to exceed it. This includes Uttar Pradesh (49 of 75 districts exceeding), Odisha (22 of 30), Madhya Pradesh (27 of 52), and Maharashtra (14 of 36). In the Northeast, Arunachal Pradesh (12 exceed, 13 comply) and Manipur (five exceed, 11 comply) also fall in this transitional category. At the other end of the spectrum, several states have the majority of their districts below NAAQS, such as Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Kerala, Sikkim, Goa, Karnataka, and Tamil Nadu. These contrasting patterns highlight the continued dominance of northern and eastern states in Indias PM 2.5 pollution hotspots, while southern and coastal regions remain relatively cleaner. The report stated that the states should develop district-level air quality action plans, guided by satellite data to identify hotspots, prioritise high-exposure populations, and allocate mitigation resources efficiently. The satellite-derived PM 2.5 data should be formally integrated into NCAP for spatially comprehensive assessment and performance tracking. Also, establishing protocols for validation, periodic updates, and public dissemination of satellite-based estimates will strengthen transparency and enable real-time decision-making in areas lacking ground monitors.

Sir David Beckham's India Visit Spotlights Project-Based Learning Transforming Government Residential Schools Across Andhra Pradesh

Former England football captain and UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador Sir David Beckham visited an MJPAPBCWREIS residential school for girls in Visakhapatnam today to see Project-Based Learning (PBL) in action. His visit is part of a wider Mantra4Change programme supported by Education Above All that is improving classrooms across Andhra Pradesh, Bihar, Odisha, and Nagaland.   Sir David Beckham with students of  MJPAPBCWREIS residential school  in Visakhapatnam   Sir David’s visit, confirmed in a social media update posted late on Wednesday night, brought national attention to a hands-on approach to schooling that places student projects, teamwork, and real-world problem-solving at the centre of learning.   Mantra4Change, in partnership with the MJP Society and supported by Education Above All (EAA), has redesigned teaching and learning in 107 residential schools across Andhra Pradesh, reaching roughly 18,000 students and building the capacity of 107 school leaders. The PBL programme has been integrated across English, Mathematics, and Science, turning traditional classrooms into active learning spaces where students learn by doing, collaborate on projects, and present solutions to community problems.   On the ground in Visakhapatnam During his visit, Sir David met with students and teachers at the school, observing how Project-Based Learning comes alive in everyday classrooms. He began by sitting in on a live PBL session before being guided by students to a small exhibition where children presented projects across English, Mathematics, and Science.   He also joined a group of students for a tree-planting activity, where children demonstrated how they scan and label saplings with digital IDs. In the school library, Sir David participated in a reading circle and spoke with children about their favourite books. The visit concluded outdoors, where students invited him to join a lively ‘one-touch’ football drill. School leaders shared how these varied activities reflect the PBL approach, boosting student confidence, encouraging collaboration, and helping children connect learning with real-life contexts.  In his Instagram post, Sir David said, “ Great day in India going back to school supporting Education Above All’s project based learning initiatives so much fun .”   “ It gives us great joy that Sir David Beckham chose to visit one of our MJP schools. It’s a proud moment for all of us in the MJP society. His presence at our school in a place like Kothavalasa is a beautiful reminder that when we work with the right intent and dedication, extraordinary things can happen. Project-based Learning has energised our classrooms, and we hope to keep nurturing this spirit of learning ,” said P. Madhavi Latha, Secretary, MJPAPBCWREIS.   Project-Based Learning shifts the focus from rote recall to applied understanding. It builds transferable skills, communication, critical thinking, creativity, while lifting measurable academic outcomes. The Mantra4Change-EAA partnership is an example of how targeted support, teacher development and curriculum redesign can scale classroom practices across states.   Santosh More, Co-Founder of Mantra4Change , said, “ Sir David Beckham’s visit is an inspiration for all of us and a powerful signal that innovation in our government schools matters. Project-Based Learning is raising children’s aspirations, and moments like this strengthen our resolve to work with governments and communities to make such learning the norm .”   The visit also adds fresh momentum to Shikshagraha, a people-powered national movement being co-built by Mantra4Change that is working to improve one million public schools across India. Sir David’s presence and public endorsement of innovative classroom practices like Project-Based Learning strengthens the movement’s core message: that communities, teachers, governments and civil society must come together to transform everyday schooling. The visibility generated by this visit helps amplify Shikshagraha’s call for collective action and accelerates its efforts to ensure every child in a public school has access to meaningful, engaging and future-ready learning.   About Mantra4Change Mantra4Change is a non-profit organisation transforming public schools in India through educational leadership. Our approach involves driving continuous school improvements by empowering education leaders, transforming schools to create an enriching learning experience, and inspiring civil society organisations across India to collectively work towards transformation in education.   We aim to drive sustainable, continuous school improvements across 150,000 schools by 2025.

David Beckhams visit in Visakhapatnam school highlights classroom innovation

The initiative is a part of a wider programme of the Mantra4Change supported by Education Above All aimed at improving classrooms across Andhra Pradesh, Bihar, Odisha and Nagaland

Delhi worst in PM2.5 pollution; 447 districts breach national air quality norm: Report

Delhi recorded the highest PM2.5 pollution levels in India, with an annual average concentration of 101 micrograms per cubic metre, 2.5 times the national limit and 20 times the WHO guideline, according to a new satellite-based assessment by the Centre for Research on Energy and Clean Air (CREA). Chandigarh logged the second-highest PM2.5 level at 70 micrograms per cubic metre between March 2024 and February 2025, followed by Haryana (63) and Tripura (62). Several other states, including Assam (60), Bihar (59), West Bengal (57), Punjab (56), Meghalaya (53) and Nagaland (52), also surpassed the National Ambient Air Quality Standard (NAAQS) of 40 micrograms per cubic metre. Overall, 447 of 749 districts, about 60 per cent breached the annual PM2.5 limit. Pollution was highly concentrated in specific regions, with Delhi and Assam each contributing 11 of the 50 most polluted districts. Bihar and Haryana followed, with seven each. Other states in the top tier included Uttar Pradesh (4), Tripura (3), Rajasthan (2) and West Bengal (2). In several regions, every monitored district exceeded national norms, including Delhi, Assam, Punjab, Haryana, Chandigarh, Himachal Pradesh, Meghalaya, Tripura, and Jammu & Kashmir. Many others had an overwhelming majority of districts above the threshold, such as Bihar (37 of 38), West Bengal (22 of 23), Gujarat (32 of 33), Nagaland (11 of 12), Rajasthan (30 of 33) and Jharkhand (21 of 24). Ladakh, Andaman & Nicobar Islands, and Lakshadweep were excluded due to insufficient monitoring data. (With inputs from PTI)

Operation Crystal Fortress: How Delhi Police and NCB crushed a 329 kg methamphetamine cartel worth Rs 262 crore

A joint operation by the Narcotics Control Bureau and Delhi Police has dismantled a major transnational methamphetamine cartel, seizing 328 kg of drugs worth Rs 262 crore. The crackdown, codenamed Operation Crystal Fortress, led to the arrest of two individuals, including a Nagaland woman, and is considered one of the largest methamphetamine recoveries in Delhi.

NCB, Delhi Police seize 328 kg meth; arrest two

Authorities have dismantled a major drug trafficking ring. The Narcotics Control Bureau and Delhi Police seized 328 kilograms of high-quality Methamphetamine in Chhatarpur. This operation, named Crystal Fortress, led to the arrest of two individuals, including a woman from Nagaland. Investigations are ongoing to apprehend a foreign-based kingpin wanted in another major drug seizure case.

Air Indias codeshare agreement with Air Canada reinstated

NEW DELHI: Air India has reinstated its codeshare agreement with fellow Star Alliance carrier, Air Canada. The move would boost connectivity between India and Canada and offer more flight options for travellers. An official release said the agreement would come into effect from December 2. The agreement enables Air India to offer its customers convenient access to six points across Canada beyond its gateways at Vancouver and London (Heathrow), it said. This allows Air India to place its AI designator code on Air Canada-operated flights on the following routes From Vancouver to Calgary, Edmonton, Winnipeg, Montral and Halifax and from London Heathrow to Vancouver and Calgary. Reciprocally, Air Canada customers will benefit from seamless domestic India connectivity to Amritsar, Ahmedabad, Mumbai, Hyderabad and Kochi via Delhi. Passengers will also get connected to Delhi and Mumbai via London Heathrow. More than two million people travel between India and Canada every year, as families reunite, students pursue their dreams, and businesses build for tomorrow. The reinstatement of our partnership with Air Canada eases journeys for thousands of them every day moving forward, said Campbell Wilson, Chief Executive Officer & Managing Director, Air India. As a proud Star Alliance member airline, Air India remains committed to the alliances purpose of delivering seamless journeys across the globe, he added. Customers with itineraries combining flights operated by Air India and Air Canada can travel on a single-ticket and benefit from a unified baggage allowance, the release said. Frequent flyers can continue to earn and redeem points/miles on both airlines, and elite status holders of Air Indias Maharaja Club loyalty programme continue to enjoy Star Alliance Gold benefits with Air Canada-operated flights, including priority services, extra baggage allowance, and complimentary airport lounge access. Subject to regulatory approvals, the codeshare flights will be progressively made available for sale through the airlines respective booking channels and travel agents worldwide, it added. Air India Express is Hornbill festival partner Meanwhile, Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio on Saturday received the newly inducted Boeing 737-8 aircraft of Air India Express at Dimapur airport. The aircraft features a livery inspired by the Tsngkoteps warrior shawl, an iconic symbol of Nagalands tribal heritage, marking the beginning of the airlines association as the Official Travel Partner of the Hornbill Festival 2025, said an official release. Air India Express Boeing aircraft with tribal heritage of Nagaland was received at Dimapur airport by Nagaland CM Neiphiu Rio.

Frame national policy, uniform rules on organ transplant, SC tells Centre

NEW DELHI: The Supreme Court on Wednesday issued a slew of directions to the Centre to frame a national policy and uniform rules in consultation with states to ensure a transparent and efficient system for organ donation and allocation. A bench comprising Chief Justice BR Gavai and Justice K Vinod Chandran passed the directions on a PIL filed by the Indian Society of Organ Transplantation (ISOT). The CJI requested the Centre to persuade Andhra Pradesh to adopt the 2011 amendments to the Transplantation of Human Organs Act, 1994. In its order, the bench directed the Union government to frame a national policy containing model allocation criteria. While ordering the Centre to establish necessary bodies and guidelines under the National Organ Transplantation Programmeafter consulting the statesthe apex court said these guidelines must ensure proper post-donation care and safeguards. The policy must eliminate state-wise discrepancies and ensure uniform criteria for donors across the country. The new framework must directly address gender- and caste-based disparities that affect access to organ transplantation, the bench said. Noting that Manipur, Nagaland, Andaman and Nicobar, and Lakshadweep lack a State Organ and Tissue Transplant Organisation (SOTO), the bench asked the Centre to constitute these bodies under the National Organ Transplantation Programme after consulting the states. On the issue of saving live donors from exploitation, it asked the Centre to evolve guidelines for the welfare of live donors, ensuring they are cared for post-donation and to prevent their commercialisation and exploitation. The PIL filed by ISOT highlighted absence of a consolidated national donorrecipient database, disparities in access due to class and gender, and the dominance of private hospitalsconducting nearly 90% of transplants. In one of its earlier hearings, the court had sought detailed state-wise statistics on the implementation of transplant laws. Also in top court Activist gets bail in Elgar Parishad case The Supreme Court on Wednesday granted interim bail to activist Jyoti Jagtap, who was arrested in 2020 in the Elgar Parishad-Maoist links case. A bench of Justices M M Sundresh and Satish Chandra Sharma passed the order. The HC had said Jagtap was an active member of the Kabir Kala Manch group, while denying bail. Verdict on Prez reference today The Supreme Courts five-judge Constitution bench, headed by the CJI B R Gavai, will pronounce the judgement on Thursday on President Droupadi Murmus reference case on whether timelines can be imposed on Governors and the President for granting assent to State bills.The bench of the apex court had reserved its verdict on September 11.

Nagaland CM urges Amit Shah to review re-imposed Protected Area Permit

Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio has appealed to Union Home Minister Amit Shah to reconsider the Protected Area Permit regime. The permit was reinstated for Nagaland, Manipur, and Mizoram citing border security. Rio argues Nagaland's situation is peaceful and stable. He warns the new restrictions will harm tourism and economic growth.

Nagaland CM calls for popular government in Manipur, Naga issue resolution

In an interview with ET, Neiphiu Rio said he founded the NPF and later the NDPP and the two parties merged to work for early resolution of the Naga political issue. The one common agenda of the Opposition-less government is that the Naga issue be resolved amicably, Rio said.

Cyient CSR arm, SIDBI Swavalamban Foundation launch AI & Future Skills CoE in Nagaland

Tata Electronics signs MoU with NIELIT Kohima to skill youth of Nagaland for semiconductor industry

Tata Electronics has partnered with NIELIT Kohima to launch skilling initiatives in semiconductor assembly, testing, marking, and packaging (ATMP). This collaboration aims to bridge the skill gap in India's semiconductor industry by developing industry-standard training programs and providing hands-on experience. The initiative specifically focuses on empowering youth in Nagaland and the Northeast region for future employment opportunities.

Prominent Nagaland politician, five-time MLA Imkong L Imchen passes away

Imchen, who was also the advisor to the Nagaland government (Information and Public Relations, and Soil and Water Conservation departments), is survived by his wife, four sons and two daughters.

IAS officer in Rajasthan files complaint against husband, also an IAS officer, over assault and misuse of data

JAIPUR: A major controversy has erupted in the Rajasthan bureaucracy after IAS officer Ashish Modi was booked following a complaint filed by his wife, IAS officer Bharti Dixit. According to police officials, Dixit lodged her complaint on November, alleging that Modi forced her into marriage in 2014 by lying and emotionally manipulating her family. She claimed he exploited her fathers vulnerability while he was battling cancer, presented false information about himself, and later subjected her to years of physical and mental harassment. Dixit alleged that Modi was originally allotted the Nagaland cadre but married her to secure a transfer to the Rajasthan cadre. She further accused him of domestic violence, stating that he frequently consumed alcohol, maintained ties with criminal elements, and assaulted her repeatedly when she questioned his actions. In her complaint, Dixit said the abuse intensified after the birth of their daughter in 2018, forcing her to temporarily leave Jaipur. She also made a sensational allegation, claiming that in October 2025, Modi and one of his associates kidnapped her in a government vehicle, held her hostage for several hours, and threatened to kill her and her family if she refused to agree to a divorce. Dixit alleged that she was held at gunpoint and forced to mislead her father over the phone during the ordeal. The complainant further claimed that Modi had installed a hidden camera in her room and illegally connected her mobile phone to other devices to access confidential government documents. She accused him of misusing his official position and government resources for personal and criminal purposes. Dixit has expressed fear for her and her familys safety and has sought police protection. Station House Officer Ramkesh stated that a case has been registered under Sections 85 (forced marriage), 308(2), 127(2), 140(3), and 61(2) of the Indian Penal Code (IPC), along with Sections 66, 66C, and 66D of the Information Technology Act. Owing to the sensitivity of the case, the investigation has been handed over to ACP Shrimanlal Meena.

Speaker says trying to ensure Oppn in JPC on tainted PM, ministers bill

GUWAHATI: Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla on Monday said he was making efforts to ensure that the Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) on the 130th Constitution Amendment Bill has the representation of all political parties. The Bill seeks to provide for the removal of the Prime Minister, Chief Ministers or Ministers under arrest for 30 consecutive days on serious charges. Parliamentary Committees should not be viewed through the lens of politics, as they discuss issues rising above party lines and ideology. Thats why, we make efforts to ensure that they have the representation of all political parties, Birla told the media on the sidelines of the Annual Conference of Commonwealth Parliamentary Association, India Region, ZoneIII being held at the Nagaland Assembly. Birla termed Parliamentary Committees as mini-parliament where the members discuss issues rising above party lines. He noted that these committees foster objectivity, transparency, and non-partisan scrutiny of government policies. Opposition parties, including Congress and All India Trinamool Congress, have already taken a decision not to be part of the JPC but NCP-SP has decided to be a part of it. YRSCP is also expected to come on board. The leaders of Opposition parties view the Bill as violating the fundamental principle of law, arguing that a person is innocent until proven guilty. However, the government is batting for this law, pointing out that Arvind Kejriwal refused to step down as Delhi Chief Minister despite his arrest in a criminal case. Meanwhile, Birla appealed to all political parties to uphold the dignity of legislative institutions by ensuring their smooth and orderly functioning. He emphasised that democracy provides ample avenues to raise issues, express concerns, and engage in debate through peaceful, structured, and informed discussions. He cautioned that planned disruptions deprive citizens of meaningful deliberations.

Research unlocks anticancer properties of endangered Mlaya plant

By Our Reporter SHILLONG, Nov 10: In a path-breaking study, researchers from Nagaland University and Assam Down Town University carried out the first comprehensive scientific study on the anticancer properties of Goniothalamus simonsii, an endangered and endemic medicinal plant found in Meghalayas forests. Long used by indigenous communities to treat gastrointestinal complications, throat irritation, typhoid []

Speaker, his deputy in Kohima to attend 22nd CPA Conference

By Our Reporter SHILLONG, Nov 10: Assembly Speaker Thomas A Sangma and Deputy Speaker Limison D Sangma are attending the 22nd Annual Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA) India Region Zone-III Conference in Kohima. The Nagaland Legislative Assembly is hosting the event from November 9 to 13. Speaking at the conference, Thomas A Sangma described the legislature []

Making efforts to ensure JPC on 130th Constitution Amendment Bill has representation of all parties: Om Birla

GUWAHATI: Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla on Monday said he was making efforts to ensure that the Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) on the 130th Constitution Amendment Bill has the representation of all political parties. The Bill seeks to provide for the removal of the Prime Minister, Chief Ministers or Ministers under arrest for 30 consecutive days on serious charges. Parliamentary Committees should not be viewed through the lens of politics, as they discuss issues rising above party lines and ideology. Thats why we make efforts to ensure that they have the representation of all political parties, Birla told the media on the sidelines of the Annual Conference of Commonwealth Parliamentary Association, India Region, ZoneIII, being held at the Nagaland Assembly. The JPC to examine the 130th Constitution Amendment Bill is expected to be constituted soon. Birla termed Parliamentary Committees as mini-parliament where the members discuss issues rising above party lines. He noted that these committees foster objectivity, transparency, and non-partisan scrutiny of government policies. Opposition parties, including Congress and All India Trinamool Congress, have already taken a decision not to be part of the JPC but NCP-SP has decided to be a part of it. YRSCP is also expected to come on board. The leaders of Opposition parties view the Bill as violating the fundamental principle of law, arguing that a person is innocent until proven guilty. However, the government is batting for this law, pointing out that Arvind Kejriwal refused to step down as Delhi Chief Minister despite his arrest in a criminal case. Meanwhile, Birla appealed to all political parties to uphold the dignity of legislative institutions by ensuring their smooth and orderly functioning. He emphasised that democracy provides ample avenues to raise issues, express concerns, and engage in debate through peaceful, structured, and informed discussions. He cautioned that planned disruptions not only undermine democratic processes but also deprive citizens of meaningful deliberations and accountability. In this regard, he made a strong pitch for preserving the dignity of the House, mentioning that orderly conduct of legislative proceedings is paramount. Referring to the upcoming Winter Session of Parliament, the Speaker urged all political parties to ensure the smooth conduct of House proceedings.

MHA releases Rs 900 crore helicopter subsidy scheme for north-eastern states

NEW DELHI: The Union Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has released a little over Rs 900 crore for seven north-eastern states under the helicopter subsidy scheme for the financial years in the period from 2015-16 to 2024-25, officials said on Monday. They said that as part of the scheme to provide connectivity to remote areas of the north-eastern states, the helicopter subsidy is being administered by the MHA. The states include Arunachal Pradesh, Meghalaya, Nagaland, Sikkim, Tripura, Mizoram and Manipur. The scheme aims to provide affordable passenger transport in the north-eastern region of the country and assistance is given for evacuation during natural calamities and for urgent medical evacuation. The MHA will bear 75% of the total cost of operation after deducting passenger recovery or a flat 20 percent of the actual operation cost, whichever is more, according to a policy note issued by the North East Division of MHA. For the purpose of restricting the subsidy, the MHA has also fixed an annual ceiling on the flying hours for the seven eligible states. Giving the break for each financial year, the officials said Rs 76.45 crore is given for 2015-16, Rs 86 crore for 2016-17, Rs 86 crore for 2017-18, Rs 90 crore for 2018-19, Rs 100 crore for 2019-20, Rs 72.50 crore for 2020-21, Rs 100 crore for 2021-22, Rs 100 crore for 2022-23, Rs 88 crore for 2023-24 and Rs 110 crore for 2024-25, which is the highest so far. The types of helicopters operating in the northeastern region include Dauphin, MI-172, Bell 412, and Bell 407, among other models. Each state has a fixed number of flying hours per annum sanctioned by the MHA, as Tripura has 480 hours, Arunachal Pradesh 3,460 hours, Sikkim 1,200 hours, Meghalaya 720 hours, Nagaland 480 hours and Mizoram 960 hours.

Om Birla to inaugurate Commonwealth Parliamentary Association conference for NE states on Monday

Kohima, Nov 9: Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla will inaugurate the two-day annual conference of the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA) India Region Zone-III in Nagaland on Monday. The conference will bring together presiding officers, MPs, and MLAs from Zone-III, which comprises the eight northeastern states. With the theme Policy, Progress & People: Legislatures as Catalysts of Change, the conference aims to strengthen democratic institutions and promote responsive governance in the region, according to a statement. Birla will grace the inaugural [] The post Om Birla to inaugurate Commonwealth Parliamentary Association conference for NE states on Monday appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Probe Agency Raids Nagaland Firms In Rs 50 Crore 'Human Hair Export' Case

The Enforcement Directorate's Nagaland office raided seven locations in Assam, Tamil Nadu, and within the state in connection with violations of the Foreign Exchange Management Act.

Nagaland IAS Induction row: JCC intensifies strike, launches tools down strike

Joint Coordination Committee in Nagaland intensifies protests with a tools down strike, demanding the restoration of a key vacancy circular amid ongoing government inaction

Between Idealism & Scepticism

The coming together of regional political parties comprising the Tipra Motha Party (TMP), the National Peoples Party (NPP) and individuals representing strong voices in their respective states namely Mohnlumo Kikon a former minister in Nagaland and also former spokesperson of the BJP who has since left the Party and Daniel Langthasa, former member of the []

In Nagalands Kezoma, an Old Grain Finds New Ground

After four decades of decline, Kezomas farmers are reviving millet cultivation blending traditional wisdom with modern sustainability.

Jkhand inflict innings defeat on Nagaland

Group A Ranchi, Nov 4: Jharkhand inflicted a massive innings defeat on Nagaland to earn a bonus point as left-arm spinner Anukul Roy returned a career-best match haul of 13 wickets in a Ranji Trophy game, here on Tuesday. A day after Roy grabbed a career-best innings haul of eight wickets (8/55) to dismiss Nagaland []

'Our strength lies in unity': Meghalaya CM Sangma, other Northeast leaders form united political entity

GUWAHATI: Leaders of regional parties from Meghalaya, Tripura, Nagaland and Assam came together to form a united political entity, representing the true aspirations of the people of the Northeast. Meghalaya Chief Minister and National Peoples Party (NPP) chief Conrad K Sangma, Tripuras Tipra Motha Party (TMP) founder leader Pradyot Debbarma, former Congress leader and Peoples Party and Assam leader Daniel Langthasa and former BJP spokesperson from Nagaland Mmhonlumo Kikon were seen together. Notably, NPP and TMP are BJP allies. For long-time, we, the younger generation leaders of Northeast, have spoken about the same issues and concerns of our people, but from different platforms and political spaces, we have realised that our strength lies in unity, and that it is time to give our people one collective voice, the quartet said in a joint statement after announcing the initiative at the Constitution Club in New Delhi on Tuesday. They said they had resolved to carry forward their ideals by coming together under a shared vision for the future of the Northeast, taking inspiration from the vision and legacy of great leaders who fought selflessly for the identity and development of the land. Today's announcement marks the first step towards building this common platform. To take this initiative forward, we have decided to constitute a committee that will deliberate on the future course of action, including the modalities and structure of the proposed political entity, the statement read. Our united effort is guided by a simple conviction that the people of the Northeast deserve to be heard, respected, and represented through a strong, unified, and indigenous political voice at the national level. Together, we stand for a stronger, more united Northeast, the statement further stated. Taking to X, Debbarma wrote, If we speak separately, we are insignificant! If we speak together, then the nation cannot ignore our region. Petty differences and narrow interests have sent us backwards. The time for change has come! Lets fight for our next generation together.

ED searches in Nagaland human hair export FEMA case

Despite considerable lapse of time, the company failed to submit requisite export documentation such as shipping bills, export invoice copies amongst others to the authorised dealer bank within prescribed timelines, ED officials said.

Ranji Trophy | Can stumbling Tamil Nadu pass the stern Vidarbha test?

The southern side has tripped up in the first two games, going down by an innings to Jharkhand in the opening fixture and then salvaging just three points after posting 512 for three (decl.) against Nagaland

Muivah exits home village, reiterates Naga sovereignty

The National Socialist Council of Nagalim leader addressed a large gathering in Manipurs Senapati on his way back to the NSCN (I-M)s central headquarters near Dimapur in Nagaland

Housing ministry asks RERAs to list extensions to delayed projects

NEW DELHI: Union Housing and Urban Affairs Minister Manohar Lal has sought reports from all Real Estate Regulatory Authorities (RERAs) with details of extensions granted to delayed projects and the actions taken if a project is incomplete even after three extensions. The directions were issued during the Central Advisory Council (CAC) meeting held last month. According to the minutes of the meetings seen by this newspaper, during the discussion in the Council, vice president of Confederation of Real Estate Developers Associations of India (CREDAI) Rohit Raj Modi pointed out that there should be no linkage between registration and termination of projects under RERA. Following the statement, chairperson of Haryana RERA (Gurugram) Arun Kumar said the time duration for project completion is declared by the promoter at the time of project registration and if the promoter fails to deliver the project within this timeframe, delayed possession charges will be applicable. Subsequently, Manohar Lal, who chaired the Council, issued the directions. The chairperson directed that a report should be obtained from all Real Estate Regulatory Authorities detailing the number of extensions granted to projects and the actions taken in cases where a project remains incomplete even after three extensions, read the minutes. Regarding the project schedule, Joint Secretary (Housing and Housing for All) Kuldip Narayan said the issue of timeline would not arise if the completion schedule declared by the promoter before the RERA Authority, the timeline mentioned in the brochure for handing over possession and the linked payment schedule are all aligned. The minister also directed that steps be taken to harmonise declared timelines. Misleading advertisements about housing projects, were also discussed. Secretary of MoHUA Srinivas Katikithala said the ministry had taken cognisance of the matter and asked the states and RERA authorities to take appropriate action and furnish a report. The secretary further said that as on September 1, all states and UTs except Nagaland have established RERAs and notified rules. SoP recommended for better functioning Manohar Lal suggested studying global as well as state models to adopt best practices to strengthen the framework The Council recommended Standard Operating Processes (SoP) to ensure the effective functioning and strengthening of RERAs and enforcement of their orders along with detailed framework to get stalled projects completed Nation-wide database of projects to be prepared through portal to empower the prospective home buyers to take informed decision The Council emphasised steps to be taken to bring about uniformity in RERA implementation, faster registration, compliance of orders, and clarity in definitions More than 1.51 L projects and 1.06 L agents have been registered and more than 1.47 L complaints have been disposed by the RERAs across the country

Ranji Trophy | People might be surprised to see Nagaland put up such a fight: TN coach Senthilnathan

Mohanty adds: We played really well. Honestly, if you ask me, the boys showed great character, especially playing against Tamil Nadu a big team, obviously.

'Nagas are Nagas, Indians are Indians': Muivah reasserts position on Naga sovereignty

GUWAHATI: From his birthplace Somdal village in Manipur, NSCN-IM leader Thuingaleng Muivah on Tuesday reiterated that the outfit would not deviate from its long-held position on the Naga political issue. They (Government of India) started giving ultimatums We were forced to tell them that come what may, we will stand our ground. We know who the Indians are and their history, the 91-year-old leader said. Muivah, who is also the chief negotiator in the Centres peace talks with the NSCN-IM, declared, We will not come taking your (Indias) history to surrender to you. We will never do that. Whether it is today or tomorrow, Nagas are Nagas and Indians are Indians. He added that there was no uncertainty within the NSCN-IM regarding its stand. If you dont come to understand us and appreciate us, then there is no point in our going to you. The peace negotiators representing the Government of India have understood our position clearly, though some of them have said they face difficulties, Muivah stated. Muivah returned to Somdal in Ukhrul district last week after more than six decades, having left home in 1964 to join the Naga revolutionary movement. At an event in Ukhrul town on October 22, he asserted that the historic national decision for a sovereign Nagalim had been defended and consolidated from the battlefield to the negotiating table. We have not surrendered the free existence and sovereignty of Nagalim, and we shall defend the sovereign national decisions of Nagalim to the last, Muivah had declared. He also made it clear that the NSCN-IM would not compromise on the twin issues of the Naga national flag and the Naga constitution. The letter and spirit of the Framework Agreement (signed with the Centre in 2015) have recognized and acknowledged the Naga national flag and the Naga national constitution, he said. Muivah is scheduled to attend another event in Senapati, Manipur, on Wednesday before returning to Nagaland, where he currently resides. The NSCN-IM entered into a peace process with the Centre in 1997 following the signing of a ceasefire agreement. Despite nearly three decades of peace talks, a final solution to the Naga issue continues to remain elusive.

Nagaland University Study sounds environmental alert for Loktak Lake

GUWAHATI: A study conducted by Nagaland University has sounded an environmental alert for the Loktak Lake, one of Indias iconic freshwater ecosystems and a designated Ramsar Site in Manipur. Researchers found that changes in land use particularly agriculture, settlements, and shifting cultivation are directly deteriorating the water quality of rivers feeding into the lake, threatening its biodiversity and livelihoods of locals. Loktak Lake is home to 132 plant species and 428 animal species, and supports hydropower, fisheries, transport, and tourism. However, in recent decades, the lake has been listed under the Montreux Record a global warning list for wetlands undergoing serious ecological damage. Reduced fish populations, rising pollution levels and increased sedimentation have now become growing concerns. A Ramsar Site is a wetland designated to be of international importance under Ramsar Convention on Wetlands. These sites are recognised for their ecological significance, such as supporting biodiversity or providing critical habitat for waterfowl. The study was undertaken by Dr Eliza Khwairakpam, Assistant Professor, Department of Environmental Science, Nagaland University. The findings were published in the peer-reviewed International Journal of Environment and Pollution. Highlighting the need for such studies, Prof Jagadish K Patnaik, Vice Chancellor, Nagaland University, said, Nagaland University takes great pride in the significant research contribution made by our faculty (members) and scholars, revealing the strong link between land use and water pollution in the Loktak Lake catchment area of Manipur. The study highlights the pressing environmental challenges arising from agricultural runoff, human settlements, and shifting cultivation, which are directly impacting the river water quality in the region. To understand the root cause, Nagaland University researchers conducted field sampling across nine major rivers Khuga, Western, Nambul, Imphal, Kongba, Iril, Thoubal, Heirok and Sekmai that drain into Loktak Lake. Using detailed Land Use Land Cover maps, Dr Khwairakpam compared different types of land activities such as agricultural areas, dense and degraded forests, settlements, Jhum cultivation and water bodies, against water quality indicators like dissolved oxygen, biological oxygen demand and temperature. Our study confirms that land use decisions across villages and forest landscapes upstream are directly impacting water quality downstream. This makes community-based land management and stricter control of agricultural runoff and waste discharge crucial for restoring Loktak Lake, Dr Khwairakpam said.

Strong link between land use and water pollution in Manipurs Loktak Lake catchment: Nagaland varsity study

Kohima, Oct 27: A Nagaland University study has sounded an environmental alert for Manipurs Loktak Lake, one of Indias most iconic freshwater ecosystems and a designated Ramsar Site. An official of the central varsity said that the researchers found that changes in land use, particularly agriculture, settlements, and shifting cultivation, are directly deteriorating the water []

Pradosh scores double-ton, Gurjapneet gets hat-trick as TN take control

Ranji Trophy 2025/26 GROUP A Dimapur, Oct 26: Young Pradosh Ranjan Paul completed his maiden double-century while upcoming left-arm pacer Gurjapneet Singh took a hat-trick as Tamil Nadu took a firm grip of their Ranji Trophy Group A match against Nagaland, here Sunday. The 24-year-old left-handed Pradosh, batting at the overnight score of 156, resumed []

Nischal,Yugandharfight back for Nagaland afterGurjapneethat-trick

Duo stitches together a century partnership for the fifth-wicket after the left-arm pacers fiery spell reduces team from North-East to 31 for four

Tamil Nadu aims to bounce back from chastening loss in season-opener

The southern side will hope for a better performance from the batters; the promoted Nagaland team will look to punch above its weight

Ahead of Muivahs Senapati visit, Nagas declare restrictions in his honour

GUWAHATI: Ahead of NSCN-IM leader Thuingaleng Muivahs visit to Senapati in Manipur on October 29, the Nagas have declared a Genna in his honour. In Naga culture and traditions, Genna relates to restrictions during the observance of a national holiday or community important day. The United Naga Council (UNC), which is Manipurs apex Naga organisation, said all educational institutions and shops would remain closed on that day as a mark of respect to Muivah. People would also abstain from all other forms of economic and commercial activities. The UNC urged people to participate in the community gatherings and programmes to celebrate the occasion and uphold the spirit of unity and solidarity. Let this Genna be a symbol of unity, strength, and commitment in a quest for self-determination based on the (Nagas) unique history and position. May our collective efforts bring peace, prosperity, and progress to the Nagas, the UNC said in a statement. Muivah (91) is currently at his birthplace, Somdal, in Manipurs Ukhrul district. He returned to the picturesque village 61 years after he had left home in 1964 to join the Naga revolutionary movement. On October 22, he had two back-to-back public events in Ukhrul town and Somdal. He will leave Somdal on October 29 to attend the event at Senapati, another Naga-majority district, and then fly to Dimapur in adjoining Nagaland. The NSCN-IMs central headquarters Camp Hebron is located about 45 km from Dimapur.

Nagaland Minister calls on Dr Jitendra, discusses State projects

Excelsior Correspondent NEW DELHI, Oct 23: Nagaland Minister Temjen Imna Along called on Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science and Technology; Earth Sciences; and Minister of State in the Prime Ministers Office, Department of Atomic Energy, Department of Space, Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions, Dr. Jitendra Singh here. The two leaders discussed a range of developmental matters pertaining to the State, particularly those related to science, technology, innovation, and administrative reforms. Dr. Jitendra Singh reaffirmed Prime Minister Narendra [] The post Nagaland Minister calls on Dr Jitendra, discusses State projects appeared first on Daily Excelsior .