Uttarakhand, Himachal, J&K Reeling: Why Are Cloudbursts Striking The Himalayas Harder?
Increased Himalayan rainfall is linked to height and terrain. Orographic lift pushes air upward, forming massive clouds that cause unusually heavy local downpours
15 killed, 16 missing as heavy rain wreaks havoc in Uttarakhand
Of the total fatalities, Dehradun district alone reported 13 and Nainital and Pithoragarh districts one each. Sixteen people are reported missing in different parts of the state capital, the Uttarakhand Disaster Management Authority said
15 Killed, 16 Missing In Uttarakhand's Dehradun, More Rainfall Expected Today | Top Points
Uttarakhand's Dehradun has been witnessing heavy rainfall since Monday night, leaving several roads, houses & shops damaged. 15 people have been killed, while 16 have gone missing.
Rains LIVE: Fresh rains leave trail of destruction in Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand
Jammu and Kashmir Congress said the Union territory has suffered a colossal damage due to heavy rains and floods
AI must be rooted in spiritual wisdom for societal good: LS Speaker
HARIDWAR, Sep 16: Artificial Intelligence should serve the humanity and not be allowed to become a tool to control human beings, Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla said on Tuesday. He stressed that Artificial Intelligence (AI) must be rooted in spiritual wisdom and ethical responsibility and only then could it become a force for societal good. Birla was delivering the inaugural address at the international conference Faith and Future: Integrating AI with Spirituality at Dev Sanskriti Vishwavidyalaya in Uttarakhands [] The post AI must be rooted in spiritual wisdom for societal good: LS Speaker appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
J&K Fencers win double bronze at 20th Cadet National Fencing Cship
Excelsior Sports Correspondent JAMMU, Sept16: Fencers from Jammu & Kashmir brought pride to the region by winning two bronze medals at the 20th Cadet (U-17) National Fencing Championship, held in Haldwani, Uttarakhand from September 8 to 13. The Boys Sabre Team featuring Dev Karan Singh Jamwal, Vansh Raina, Harnidh Singh and Vinayak Sharma and the Girls Sabre Team comprising Antalya Jamwal, Sabrena Choudhary, Eknoor Kour and Aahana Gupta, delivered outstanding performances to claim bronze medals in their respective team events. [] The post J&K Fencers win double bronze at 20th Cadet National Fencing Cship appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Doon deluged as fresh rain fury kills 18 in Uttarakhand, HP
Heavy rain in Uttarakhand: CM Dhami inspects severely affected Maldevta, Kesarwala areas in Dehradun
Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami on Tuesday conducted an on-site inspection of Maldevta and Kesarwala areas in Dehradun district, which have been severely affected by heavy rainfall.
Villages In Jammu Hills Face Land Subsidence; Over 3,000 Forced To Leave Homes
Tangar (J&K), Sep 16: People living in majestic Pir Panjal and Shivalik ranges in Jammu region built their dream homes believing the mountains would shelter them, but now they are forced to leave their villages which have started sinking due to land subsidence caused by heavy rains. Eleven villages in Ramban, Reasi, Jammu, and Poonch are facing a Uttarakhands Joshimath-like sinking crisis since September 5, as cracks have appeared in houses, fertile fields are disappearing and families are fleeing their [] The post Villages In Jammu Hills Face Land Subsidence; Over 3,000 Forced To Leave Homes appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
The major news headlines of the day and more
Homes damaged, cars swept away as rains flood India's Uttarakhand
Rescue efforts are under way after the Himalayan region was hit by torrential downpour.
Uttarakhand: 200 Students Rescued From Waterlogged Institute In Dehradun After Heavy Rain
After receiving information about 200 students being stranded at the institute, rescue teams from the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) Corps rushed to the spot and pulled them out to safety
Uttarakhand floods: CM Dhami inspects disaster-affected areas in Dehradun
Uttarakhand CM Pushkar Singh Dhami inspected disaster-hit areas in Dehradun, including Sahastradhara and Raipur, after cloudbursts and landslides caused massive damage. Torrential rains washed away roads, damaged shops and hotels, and disrupted connectivity.
Uttarakhand: Five swept away after heavy rains in Dehradun and surrounding areas
Several roads, houses and shops were damaged while a bridge was washed away and 584 people have been left stranded, officials said, adding that most rivers were in spate following heavy rains
Photos: Heavy overnight rain wreaks havoc in Dehradun, neighbouring areas
Dehradun: Heavy overnight rains at various places in Uttarakhand damaged roads, houses and shops, and washed out a bridge early on Tuesday, while many people are reported to have gone missing following the calamity that also triggered some landslides. Disaster Management Secretary Vinod Kumar Suman said damage have been reported from Sahastradhara and Mal Devta Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
SC hears pleas seeking stay on anti-conversion laws, gives states four weeks to respond
NEW DELHI: The Supreme Court on Tuesday sought replies from various States within four weeks after hearing a batch of applications seeking a stay of the laws enacted and enforced by these states dealing with religious conversions. Directing Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Chhattisgarh, Gujarat, Haryana, Jharkhand and Karnataka to file their respective replies in the pleas within four weeks, a two-judge bench of the top court heAded by the CJI B R Gavai and K Vinod Chandran listed the matter to be heard next in six weeks. Senior Advocate Chander Uday Singh, for Citizens for Justice and Peace, sought stay of the impugned legislations. He submitted that there was great urgency to hear the matter, as States are amending the laws to make these laws more stringent. Clarifying that although these laws are called the Freedom of Religion Act, these laws curtail the religious freedom of minorities and targeting interfaith marriages and religious practices, Singh argued. In 2024, the Uttar Pradesh law was amended to increase the punishment for unlawful religious conversion through marriage a minimum of twenty years, which can extend up to life imprisonment for the remainder of one's life, stated Singh. Seeking to stay the impugned legislations, Singh added that for anybody wishing to enter an interfaith marriage, bail would become impossible. Several states are already enacted some are enacting, recently Rajasthan has also enacted a law, he contended. On similar voices with Singh, advocate Vrinda Grover, appearing for the National Federation of Indian Women, told the top court that her client has also filed a similar application to stay the laws. Rajasthan Assembly clears anti-conversion bill with toughest penalties yet, Congress stages protest Uttarakhand Cabinet approval to bill amending anti-conversion law makes it far more stringent
Video: Raging River In Dehradun Overturns Marooned Tractor, 10 People Swept Away
As news of widespread rain havoc in Uttarakhand's Dehradun comes in, a shocking video of a group of people being swept away by the raging Tons river has emerged. According to reports, this is a group of labourers, and six of them are feared dead
Heavy Rain In Uttarakhand Today Is Not Cloudburst. Weather Official Explains
Dehradun saw heavy damage after rain triggered flash floods, inundating streets.
Heavy Rain Fury Grips Uttarakhand; Red Alert for Haridwar, Tehri, Dehradun
Dehradun, Sept 16: Relentless heavy rains over the past 24 hours have unleashed widespread devastation across Uttarakhand, triggering landslides, flash floods, and infrastructure collapse. Several houses have been swept into swollen rivers, farmlands washed away, and families forced to evacuate as disaster response teams work round the clock. In Rishikesh, the Chandrabhaga river overflowed, trapping [] The post Heavy Rain Fury Grips Uttarakhand; Red Alert for Haridwar, Tehri, Dehradun appeared first on Northlines .
Heavy rain, cloudbursts, and landslides have caused widespread destruction in Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand. In Himachal Pradesh, three people died in Mandi district due to a landslide. Uttarakhand was hit by a cloudburst in Dehradun, damaging properties and infrastructure. Rescue operations are underway, and authorities are providing assistance to those affected, with the Chief Ministers monitoring the situation.
Heavy overnight rains, landslides wreak havoc in Dehradun, neighbouring areas
Heavy overnight rains at various places in Uttarakhand damaged roads, houses and shops, and washed out a bridge early on Tuesday, while many people are reported to have gone missing following the calamity that also triggered some landslides. Disaster Management Secretary Vinod Kumar Suman said damage have been reported from Sahastradhara and Mal Devta in Dehradun, and also from Mussoorie. Two to three people are said to be missing in Dehradun, and a death that has been reported from Mussoorie is being verified, he said. Teams are engaged in relief and rescue operations in the affected areas, while 300 to 400 people have been moved to safety, the official highlighted. Waterlogging in Tehri left people stranded at Geeta Bhawan, Suman said, adding that they were rescued. Also, a road in Nainital has been blocked by debris brought by a landslide triggered by heavy rain. Residents of Majhara village were on the road, having survived what they called a landslide that hit their dwellings early in the morning. They claimed that some people have gone missing. In a post on X, Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami said, Received the sad news of shops getting damaged due to heavy rains in Sasthdhara, Dehradun, late last night. District administration, SDRF, and police have reached the spot and are engaged in relief and rescue operations. I am constantly in touch with the local administration in this regard and am personally monitoring the situation. I pray to God for everyone's safety, he said in a post in Hindi on X. The chief minister's office, in a post in Hindi on X, said that Dhami has briefed Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah about the situation in Uttarakhand following heavy showers. They assured the state of all possible help and asserted that the Union government stands firmly with the people of Uttarakhand in this hour of crisis, according to the CMO. Dhami is visiting the rain-affected areas of Dehradun district to review the situation on the ground. Local MLAs and senior officials are present with him. The state government stands with every affected family. The administration is already on alert mode and the NDRF, SDRF, police and local administration are constantly active, the chief minister said. Heavy rains caused the Song River to swell, flooding the nearby areas. Speaking to PTI Videos, Sub-Divisional Magistrate of Sadar, Hari Giri, said, The water level is rising, and the flow is very strong right now. No deaths have been reported so far. Tourists were staying in the hotels. Waterlogging has been reported in Dehradun's IT Park area, with water entering many offices, leaving people stranded. I have been stranded here since 5:30am. There is a lot of water. The car here has been stuck since last night and is submerged. Water has entered offices and basements, said Hrithik Sharma, a local.
Dehradun Cloudburst Live Updates: Heavy overnight rain wreaks havoc in Dehradun, neighbouring areas
Heavy overnight rains at various places in Uttarakhand damaged roads, houses and shops, and washed out a bridge early on Tuesday. Teams are engaged in relief and rescue operations in the affected areas, while 300 to 400 people have been moved to safety.
Cloudburst Triggers Flash Floods In Uttarakhand's Dehradun, 2 People Missing | Updates
Two people are reportedly missing so far. SDRF and NDRF teams have rushed for rescue operation.
A devastating cloudburst hit Uttarakhand's Dehradun, triggering massive landslides and flash floods that washed away cars and shops, with two people reported missing. The State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) and National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) teams have launched a rescue operation.
Floods in North India A Man-Made Ecological Crisis
Shubham Sharma In recent years, North Indiaparticularly Jammu & Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, and Punjab has faced recurrent flood disasters. While intense monsoon rainfall triggered by climate variability is the immediate cause, the deeper roots lie in unsustainable human interventions. Reckless deforestation, illegal sand mining, destruction of grasslands, and encroachment on floodplains have destabilised the fragile Himalayan ecosystem, turning natural hydrological processes into man-made ecological crises. Key Causes of Flood Vulnerability 1. Deforestation and Road Expansion Large-scale road widening, [] The post Floods in North India A Man-Made Ecological Crisis appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Air India Express starts direct flight operations from Dehradun to Bengaluru
DEHRADUN: Air India Express on Monday started its direct flight operations from Dehradun to Bengaluru with Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami flagging off the new air service at the Jolly Grant Airport. The Chief Minister described it as a significant milestone in the overall development of the state and the expansion of air connectivity. The commencement of Air India Express services from Dehradun marks a significant achievement in civil aviation for our state. Better connectivity with Bengaluru will greatly boost tourism, trade, and investment opportunities in Uttarakhand, he said. Direct air service between Dehradun and Bengaluru by Air India Express would also be a great facility for the youth, entrepreneurs, IT professionals, students, and tourists of Uttarakhand, he said. Bengaluru is the tech capital of the country and thousands of youths from Uttarakhand are engaged there in education, services, and startups. Now, they will have a more convenient, timely, and safe travel option to visit their home state, the Chief Minister said. It will also strengthen connectivity for students, professionals, and entrepreneurs with one of India's most dynamic cities. We welcome Air India Express and look forward to the positive impact this connectivity will have on our people and economy, Dhami said. In recent years, the state government has taken several major decisions from policy reforms to infrastructure development to strengthen air connectivity, Dhami said. We are delighted to commence direct flight operations from Dehradun to our largest domestic hub, Bengaluru. This shows the rapid expansion of our network, Air India Express MD Aloke Singh said. With over 115 aircraft now in our fleet, we are building a stronger and more accessible network that reflects the aspirations of modern India, he said.
Adani to construct 4,081 cr Sonprayag-Kedarnath ropeway project in Uttarakhand
It is a 12.9 kilometer-long project, that will take six years to complete, and will reduce travel time to just 36 minutes from the current 9-hour-long arduous
Mauritius PM ends Uttarakhand visit says ties with India grow stronger
Mauritius Prime Minister Navinchandra Ramgoolam wound up his four-day visit to Uttarakhand on Monday with Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami meeting him at the Jolly Grant airport here. Says The visit by the Mauritian prime minister is bound to further deepen and strengthen the cultural ties between India and Mauritius.
Mauritian PM winds up four-day visit to Uttarakhand
The Chief Minister also offered the Mauritius Prime Minister the 'prasad' of Chardham and gifted him products of Uttarakhand's umbrella brand 'House of Himalayas' as a souvenir
Who Is Justice Chelameswar Leading SCs Vantara SIT? The Firm Voice On IT Act, Aadhaar & NJAC Act
Vantara SIT was chaired by ex-SC judge Chelameswar and included ex-Uttarakhand and Telangana HC CJ Chauhan, ex-Mumbai top cop Nagrale and Additional Customs Commissioner Gupta
Uttarakhand Congress demands CBI probe into land allotment to Ramdevs aide Balkrishna
Dehradun, Sep 15 (PTI) The Congress has accused the Uttarakhand government of giving 142 acres of heritage land of the George Everest Estate in Mussoorie, worth more than Rs 30,000 crore, to a company linked to yoga guru Ramdevs aide Acharya Balkrishna on an annual rent of just Rs 1 crore. The party on Sunday demanded a CBI probe into the matter under the supervision of the high court. Uttarakhand Pradesh Congress Committee president Karan Mahara called it the biggest scam in the state so far. He alleged that the scam in the tourism development project of George Everest Estate
Manoj on visiting Neem Karoli Baba's ashram, its link to TFM
Manoj Bajpayee, contemplating leaving acting, found solace and inspiration at Neem Karoli Babas Kainchi Dham in Uttarakhand. This spiritual journey with director Ram Reddy led to the creation of 'Jugnuma The Fable,' a film mirroring themes of liberation and inner peace. The experience deeply influenced Bajpayee's connection to the protagonist and the film's narrative.
Uttarakhand villagers bar Nepali women, children from Kedarnath Yatra from 2026
DEHRADUN: Villagers in Gauri Kund, a key stop on the Kedarnath Yatra , have voted to bar the entry of women and children of Nepali origin starting from the 2026 pilgrimage season, a move that is likely to spark debate and alter the demographics of the sacred site. The decision was taken during an open meeting on Saturday, chaired by village head Kusum Devi and attended by a large number of residents. The villagers said the measure is necessary to uphold the dignity and sanctity of this holy land of Maa Gauri. Attendees alleged that over the past few years, several Nepali-origin women had been involved in the illegal trade of liquor and meat within Gauri Kund, compromising the spiritual atmosphere of the area. Despite repeated complaints lodged with local authorities, residents lamented that the administration's response has been limited to 'token actions,' failing to address the core issue effectively, a local elder, who wished to remain anonymous, told this newspaper. This perceived inaction, they assert, left the Gram Sabha with no alternative but to implement such stringent measures. Gram Pradhan Kusum Devi highlighted Gauri Kunds central role in the Kedarnath pilgrimage, noting that millions of devotees visit the shrine of Maa Gauri each year. The sanctity of this site is being eroded due to administrative neglect, she said. It is our duty to protect it. Clarifying the ban, Pradhan Devi added, While individuals of Nepali origin are welcome to seek employment here, bringing women and children will be strictly prohibited from 2026 onwards. This is not about discrimination, but about preserving our spiritual heritage. Supporting the decision, Ramchandra Goswami, President of the local Trade Union, said the lack of decisive action by authorities compelled the villagers to take this step. Speaking exclusively to this newspaper, Goswami said, Our primary objective is to ensure that devotees can undertake their religious journey without any impediment or disturbance. The incidents of illegal activities were creating an environment that was not conducive to spiritual reflection. Kedarnath Dham, one of Uttarakhands four revered Char Dham sites, attracts around 18 lakh pilgrims annually from across India and abroad, underscoring its importance to the regions spiritual and economic landscape.
Did Neem Karoli Babas ashram influence The Family Man? Manoj Bajpayee reveals the unknown connection
Actor Manoj Bajpayee, acclaimed for his work in films and OTT shows, recently revealed that a visit to Neem Karoli Babas Kainchi Dham in Uttarakhand helped him overcome a restless phase in his career. Before The Family Man Season 1, Bajpayee spent nearly a year without work and was questioning his future in acting. The spiritual experience at Kainchi Dham gave him clarity and inspired the themes of his latest film, Jugnuma The Fable, which explores detachment, liberation, and inner peace.
Cabinet buzz grips Uttarakhand as MLAs flock to CM Dhami's residence
DEHRADUN: Dehradun witnessed hectic political activity on Sunday as several legislators headed to Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhamis official residence. The series of meetings, coming soon after his return from Delhi on Saturday evening, sparked fresh speculation in the state. By Sunday morning, nearly half a dozen MLAs had met Dhami for individual consultations. Among them were independent MLA Sanjay Dobhal and ruling party legislators Sahdev Pundir, Khazan Dass, Suresh Chauhan, Bharat Chaudhary, Anil Nautiyal, and Pritam Panwar. While officially termed 'courtesy calls' and discussions on 'developmental demands,' the underlying agenda quickly became apparent. Speaking to TNIE, MLA Pritam Panwar acknowledged, While I primarily discussed matters about my constituency, other conversations (what you might be thinking) also took place. Panwar's veiled reference was widely understood to be about the much-anticipated cabinet expansion. During these interactions, the legislators apprised Chief Minister Dhami of various developmental needs and local issues within their respective areas. The CM, in turn, assured them of prompt action, promising to issue necessary directives to the concerned departments for the swift resolution of their demands. Significantly, he also hinted at a cabinet expansion at an appropriate time, further fueling the speculation. Dhami also reiterated his government's commitment to providing swift and transparent services to the public, emphasizing that active participation from elected representatives is key to effective problem-solving and developmental progress. He underscored the government's continuous efforts to strengthen crucial infrastructure sectors such as road connectivity, healthcare, education, tourism, potable water, and energy. The CM stressed that Uttarakhand's balanced and holistic development hinges on legislators actively conveying public expectations to the government and participating in the state's progress. While official sources within the BJP remained tight-lipped about the flurry of visits to the CM's residence, murmurs within party circles suggested a potential shake-up. There are strong indications that some new faces might be inducted into the cabinet, while certain incumbents could be dropped. Notably, five cabinet ministerial berths currently lie vacant in the Uttarakhand government. A section of the ruling party appears confident of a full cabinet reshuffle taking place after the 'Shraddh Paksha' period, traditionally considered inauspicious for new beginnings.
Uttarakhand Premier League: Rishikesh Falcons Bolster Squad With Key Draft Picks For Season 2
Rajiv Gandhi International Cricket Stadium: Rishikesh Falcons have strengthened their squad for the upcoming Season 2 of the Uttarakhand Premier League (UPL), following a successful Player Draft held in Dehradun on Saturday. With the men's matches in the Uttarakhand Premier League (UPL) set to begin on September 27, the Rishikesh Falcons are now well-equipped to take on the challenge with a balanced mix of experienced players and promising young talent. The highlight of the draft for Rishikesh Falcons was the selection of ace bowler Jagadeesha Suchith as the teams icon player. Suchith, with his IPL experience, is expected to play a key role in anchoring the bowling attack and mentoring the younger players. The team management expressed confidence after the player draft, saying that the squad has the right balance between youth and experience, which will help Rishikesh Falcons in the upcoming Season 2. Speaking after the draft on Saturday, Dev Kesarwani, owner of Rishikesh Falcons, said, We are delighted with the squad picked by us in the draft today. We are confident that the Rishikesh Falcons will deliver exciting cricket and make Rishikesh and all our fans proud. Our focus has been on building a team that not only competes but also inspires other players. Rishikesh Falcons are committed to giving rising cricketers a platform to showcase their skills. The experience of playing in the League will sharpen their skills. With preparations set to begin immediately, Rishikesh Falcons will now focus on fine-tuning their strategies and building momentum ahead of the leagues opening clash. Rishikesh Falcons are committed to giving rising cricketers a platform to showcase their skills. The experience of playing in the League will sharpen their skills. Also Read: LIVE Cricket Score Rishikesh Falcons full squad: Jagadeesha Suchith (Icon), Sunny Kashyap, Akhil Singh Rawat (WK), Jagmohan Nagarkoti, Nikhil Pundir, Allen Chetan, Lakshay Raichandani, Riyansh Rawat, Abhishek Bhartwal, Poorvansh Dhruv, Jaskaran Singh, Hardik Choudhary, Ashman Gulati, Aryan Garg, Kshitiz Negi, Rahul, Yash Vaishnav, Gopal Singh, Shikher Balyan, Mannu Kumar, Yuvraj Chauhan. Article Source: IANS
Suchith, Chopra And Lalwani To Represent Uttarakhand In Upcoming 2025-26 Domestic Season
Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy: Left-arm spinner J Suchith, opener Prashant Chopra and batter Bhupen Lalwani have joined Uttarakhand ahead of the 2025-26 domestic season. All three will begin their stint with the new state by featuring in the Uttarakhand Premier League. Suchith, who earlier represented Karnataka before moving to Nagaland, began his domestic career in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy in April 2014, later making both his List A and first-class debuts. He turned out for Nagaland only in the 2024-25 season but made a huge impact, finishing as the highest wicket-taker in the Plate group with 43 wickets in six first-class games. Chopra, on the other hand, made his debut for Himachal Pradesh as an 18-year-old in the Vijay Hazare Trophy in February 2011 and has represented them ever since. In the previous season, he accumulated 386 runs in seven first-class matches, highlighted by a 171-run knock against Uttarakhand. Across his career, Chopra has featured in 81 first-class matches, scoring 5,093 runs with 14 centuries, while also amassing 4,012 runs in 103 List A games at an average of 41.79. In T20 cricket, he has registered 2035 runs in 70 matches at a strike rate of 114.58. Suchith, who earlier represented Karnataka before moving to Nagaland, began his domestic career in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy in April 2014, later making both his List A and first-class debuts. He turned out for Nagaland only in the 2024-25 season but made a huge impact, finishing as the highest wicket-taker in the Plate group with 43 wickets in six first-class games. Also Read: LIVE Cricket Score The trios arrival adds to a string of transfers before the upcoming season, with some big names also on the move Karun Nair has returned to Karnataka, Harshal Patel has rejoined Gujarat from Haryana, and Jalaj Saxena has shifted from Kerala to Maharashtra. Article Source: IANS
Teachers beat 7-yr-old for missing class in Haridwar; FIR lodged, no arrests yet
A seven-year-old Muslim boy was beaten black and blue by his teachers after he missed two days of school on September 11. The incident occurred in Uttarakhands Haridwar district. A video of the injured child lying on the bed has emerged on social media platforms. The boy is a Class 1 student at a primary Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
It's raining disaster: Why Himalayan states face rising monsoon tragedies
Himalayan states face increasing monsoon calamities exacerbated by infrastructure expansion and inadequate early-warning systems. Recent disasters in Uttarakhand and Jammu & Kashmir highlight the devastating impact of cloudbursts and flash floods. Unscientific road construction, deforestation, and climate change further compound the region's vulnerability, demanding a shift towards sustainable development and improved disaster preparedness.
How do we exit the cycle of floods and deaths?
Mumbai: The cycles of extreme climate, alternating between floods and drought, is getting worse by the year, and there are no answers. This year, more than half the country is reeling from floods. Punjab is facing its worst deluge since 1988. Haryana, Rajasthan, and the hill states of Himachal and Uttarakhand have seen cloudbursts, and entire towns being wiped out. In neighbouring Pakistan, the north-west has suffered far worse, with millions displaced and over a 1,000 lives lost. It is not a pretty picture. Across Himachal Pradesh, Jammu and Kashmir, Punjab and Haryana, the combined death toll has reached 500 as of September 4, 2025. Himachal is the worst with 355 deaths. In the northeast, relentless rains in June have claimed 30 lives. Every year the location and toll numbers change. Otherwise, the destruction of lives, crops and human habitation continues with sickening repetition. Somehow our planners and government departments have never really digested the old adage ofgeographer Gilbert F. White, who noted in 1942, Floods are acts of God, but flood losses are largely acts of man. Upstream water Punjab is facing its worst floods since 1988 with nearly 2,000 villages submerged, 4 lakh acres of farm lands devastated and nearly 3.9 lakh people across 9 districts having to migrate to relief spots. Environmental platform Mongabay has documented the extent and reasons for the damage. Punjabs affected villages mainly lie along the River Ravi and lower reaches of the Beas and Sutlej. The waters swelled to unmanageable proportions due to incessant rains in upstream areas in Himachal, which has received as much as 46% above-normal rainfall till 8 September. The situation worsened with the lower catchment areas in Punjab too receiving 55% excess rain. Environmental activists point to the shoddy management of dam waters. The excess release of water at the wrong time, is one of the principal problems. While the Centre controls the Bhakra-Beas Management Board (BBMB) that manages Bhakra and Pong dams, the Punjab government manages the Ranjit Sagar dam on the River Ravi. In the early part of August, the release of water from these dams was kept low despite heavy rainfall in the catchment areas. This was a huge mistake. Thereafter, Himanshu Thakkar, the coordinator of South Asia Network on Dams, Rivers and People (SANDRP), said: They had to eventually release heavy quantities of water from August 26 onwards when Punjab was already facing floods due to local rainfall. It ultimately led to the submergence of large parts of Gurdaspur and Pathankot districts. There is rightful fury at the dam management organistions. Citizens groups have filed petitions before the National Green Tribunal (NGT), while the Himachal government has filed an F.I.R. against the dam authority accusing it of releasing excess water without warning. Glacial outbursts Significantly, the floods that ravaged the Harsil region of Uttarakhand on 5 August, wiped out riverside towns Dharali and Sukhi Top, and have claimed several lives, have a different explanation. Despite reports of cloudbursts, the Indian Meteorological Department recorded minimal rainfall. Harsil recorded only 6.5 mm of rain on the day of the disaster, while Bhatwari received just 11.5 mm over 24 hours. This is far short of what is defined as a cloudburst, which implies a massive precipitation of 100 mm or more of rainfall over 24 hours over a localized area. This has led some experts to venture a hypothesis that it was not a cloudburst, but rather a Glacial Lake Outburst Flood (GLOF) or a glacier collapse in the upper reaches that triggered the flash floods. What these experts are saying is that climate change is accelerating glacial retreat, leading to the formation and expansion of glacial lakes that can break their bunds at any time. It is also time that the state government and commercial groups be made accountable for having slaughtered trees, expanded roads and highways in the ecologically sensitive Himalayan zones. It has changed the course of rivers like the River Kheer Ganga. The destruction caused by floods in Pakistan needs intensive study too. As a country that contributes barely 1% towards global climate change, it has suffered widespread damage. Speaking to Dialogue Earth, climate scientist Mohammad Ehsan Leghari said the floods were triggered with 200 to 300 mm of rainfall in a short spell, along with glacial melts, and northern heatwaves in June. While these natural disasters came together, he pointed to the human-made disasters too -- the deforestation, and urbanization and human encroachments blocking the natural flows. Similarly, the Ravi Urban Development Authority s paving of floodplains along the River Ravi in Punjab turned absorbent areas into concrete, inviting devastation by turning them into river paths. The bigger tragedy is there is no learning or rolling back mistakes of the past. Extreme and cyclical changes of climate are not being factored in. The El Nino effect - warming of central and equatorial Indian and Pacific Ocean waters that cause millions of cusecs of rain being dumped in as far off places as Europe, the Horn of Africa, and Bali this year -- has not been reversed. In Dehradun, the capital of Uttarakhand, despite the tragedy that unfoleded recently in the states Harsil sector, there is no rethink on devastating projects in the valley. A Rs 6,200-crore Rispana -- Bindal Elevated Corridor, two flyovers of over 26 kilometers, are in the pipeline. The plan includes erecting support columns in the middle of the beds of Rivers Rispana and Bindal that will choke the natural flow of water and create flooding along the banks of the rivers. Bharti Jain, architect and town planner, has pointed out that as far back as 2007 the flyovers were to be implemented after feasibility studies and Environmental Impact Assessment is done. However, the Doon authorities are brazenly implementing these projects without a thought for on the citys environment, Ms Bharti told this writer.
Uttarakhand Man Hits Wife With Sickle, Strangles Her And Leaves Her Bleeding
Vishnu Chauhan, the accused, told police that he often had arguments with his wife. On Friday, he fought with her and, in a fit of rage, he hit her on the head with a sickle, before strangling her to death.
Uttarakhand turns to satellites to monitor glacier meltdown, avert future monsoon disasters
DEHRADUN: Scientists are grappling with the unprecedented intensity of rain-induced disasters that have ravaged Uttarakhand this monsoon season. In response, the state's Uttarakhand Space Application Centre (USAC) is partnering with ISRO to conduct an in-depth study of these alarming weather shifts. Simultaneously, the Information Technology Department has announced a comprehensive satellite survey of all glaciers and snowfields across the state, with a particular focus on 13 highly sensitive glaciated regions. The urgent initiative comes amidst growing concerns that debris from rapidly receding glaciers played a significant role in recent calamities, including the devastating Dharali disaster. Experts draw parallels to the 2013 Kedarnath tragedy, which was largely attributed to glacial lake outburst floods, highlighting a recurring and perilous pattern in the fragile Himalayan ecosystem. USAC had previously collaborated with the Wadia Institute of Himalayan Geology (WIHG) to survey 13 critical glaciers, submitting a report to the disaster management department. Now, they are escalating efforts, implementing a phased satellite monitoring program. This initiative will capture regular satellite imagery of all glaciers, enabling a meticulous study of changes and early identification of potential future disaster triggers. With over 1,400 large and small glaciers dotting the state's landscape, the survey will be conducted in phases, beginning with the 13 most vulnerable. Nitesh Jha, Secretary of Information Technology, emphasised the proactive nature of the project. Our objective is to develop robust action plans to mitigate any risks identified through these glacial changes, he stated. Dr. Vineet Gehlot, Director of the Wadia Institute of Himalayan Geology, revealed that WIHG is already studying 11 glaciers across Uttarakhand, Jammu & Kashmir, and Ladakh, with six dedicated centers in Uttarakhand. Most of our observations indicate that glaciers are melting and retreating, experiencing a significant loss in their mass balance, Dr. Gehlot explained. He warned that glacial melt presents multifaceted challenges, including the formation of dangerous glacial lakes, increased flood risks, and potential water scarcity. Providing specific data, WIHG senior scientist Dr. Manish Mehta told TNIE , Glaciers are receding at an alarming rate of 5 to 20 meters per year. In Zanskar, two glaciers are retreating by 20 meters annually, while the Chorabari glacier is shrinking by 6 to 8 meters per year. These figures paint a stark picture of the rapid changes occurring in the high Himalayas. The escalating water levels in Uttarakhand's rivers are a direct consequence of both heavy rainfall and significant glacial melt, leading to increased siltation and heightened flood threats in downstream areas. Geologists caution that if the health of these glaciers doesn't improve, the risk of catastrophic flooding in riverine settlements will intensify significantly. Professor H.C. Nainwal of the Geology Department at Hemwati Nandan Bahuguna Garhwal Central University corroborated these findings, stating that glaciers in Uttarakhand and Himachal Pradesh are receding by 5 to 20 meters annually, with a concerning reduction in their thickness. He highlighted that 'hanging glaciers' are particularly prone to breaking, escalating avalanche incidents. Professor Nainwal primarily attributes the rapid glacial retreat to global temperature changes and greenhouse gas emissions, including those from forest fires, which further exacerbate the problem. The 13 identified sensitive glaciers are spread across several districts: four in Chamoli (including Vasudhara Tal), Kedartal in Uttarkashi, Nag Kund in Bageshwar, Mussoorie Tal in Tehri Garhwal, and six glaciers in Pithoragarh (including Mabang and Pyungru).
Womens Player Draft Completes Squads For Uttarakhand Premier League
Rajiv Gandhi International Cricket Stadium: The player draft for the 2025 Womens Uttarakhand Premier League was conducted on Saturday morning in Dehradun, assembling competitive squads for the four participating teams - Haridwar Storm, Mussoorie Thunders, Pithoragarh Hurricanes and Tehri Queens. Each franchise completed its roster by securing talent across five player categories: Icon Player, Category A, Category B, Category C and Uncapped Players. With the draft now concluded, teams will kickstart their preparation to take part in the Womens UPL, which will commence on September 23. The day started with Tehri Queens getting the first pick after a pick order was conducted on Friday evening to determine the order of the player draft. Neelam Bhardwaj, who became the youngest womens player to score a List A double century in 2024, was picked by Tehri Queens. Mussoorie Thunders were the second team to pick their Icon Player and went with wicketkeeper-batter Kanchan Parihar, who hails from Haldwani. Haridwar Storms pick of fellow wicketkeeper-batter Sweta Verma as their Icon Player meant that Pithoragarh Hurricanes were automatically allotted Mansi Joshi as their marquee player. Teams then proceeded to assemble the rest of their squads, following the Pick Order and getting a maximum of 2 minutes to pick one player in a particular round. In total, 16 rounds were completed, including the Icon Player round, which enabled teams to form squads of 16 players each who belong to the Senior, Under-23, Under-19 and Uncapped categories - ensuring representation across different age groups. Squads: Haridwar Storm: Sweta Verma (Icon Player), Jyoti Giri, Kanak Tapraniya, Safina S, Ritika Supyal, Divya Bohra, Dipika Chand, Kalpana Verma, Ankita Shah, Tanisha Khatri, Garima Bisht, Tamanna, Harshita Pant, Rose, Maanvi Jamiwal, Tanvi Nautiyal. Mussoorie Thunders: Kanchan Parihar (Icon Player), Amisha Bahukhandi, Neelam Bisht, Dimpal Kandari, Reena Jindal, Tara Bisht, Shagun Chaudhary, Gayatri Arya, Pramila Rawat, Siddhi Pandey, Bhoomi Umar, Bhoomika Jalal, Richa Singh, Aadhya Aggarwal, Vaishnavi Thapliyal, Sidra Farooqhi. Pithoragarh Hurricanes: Mansi Joshi (Icon Player), Muskan Kumari, Anjali Goswami, Manisha Kuanwar, Muskan Khan, Gunjan Bhandari, Nandini Kaushik, Karuna Shety, Vaishali Tulera, Rudra Sharma, Anannya Mehra, Ridhima Shety, Isha, Navya Chauhan, Isha, Priya. Mussoorie Thunders: Kanchan Parihar (Icon Player), Amisha Bahukhandi, Neelam Bisht, Dimpal Kandari, Reena Jindal, Tara Bisht, Shagun Chaudhary, Gayatri Arya, Pramila Rawat, Siddhi Pandey, Bhoomi Umar, Bhoomika Jalal, Richa Singh, Aadhya Aggarwal, Vaishnavi Thapliyal, Sidra Farooqhi. Also Read: LIVE Cricket Score With squads now in place, the stage is set for a competitive and high-quality tournament, which starts at the Rajiv Gandhi International Cricket Stadium in Dehradun from September 23. All teams have shown strong intent in the draft and the league promises an exciting season ahead for players and fans alike enabling the development of the womens cricketing ecosystem in Uttarakhand. Article Source: IANS
Mauritius PM Ramgoolam lauds Uttarakhands serene beauty during four-day visit
DEHRADUN: Dr Navinchandra Ramgoolam, the Prime Minister of Mauritius, arrived in Uttarakhand on Friday for a four-day official visit, receiving a grand welcome that highlighted the states growing international appeal. The visit is expected to bolster cultural ties and explore avenues for tourism cooperation between the two regions. The Prime Minister, accompanied by his wife Veena Ramgoolam, landed at Dehraduns Jolly Grant Airport around 3 pm aboard a special aircraft. He was warmly greeted by a high-level delegation, including Uttarakhand Cabinet Minister Ganesh Joshi, Principal Secretary R.K. Sudhanshu, DGP Deepam Seth, Dehradun District Magistrate Savin Bansal, and Senior Superintendent of Police Ajay Kumar. As his motorcade proceeded towards Narendra Nagar, the route was lined with enthusiastic school students and NCC cadets, who waved flags and cheered. At Indramani Badoni Chowk, the welcome intensified with NCC and school bands performing, creating a vibrant atmosphere for the visiting dignitary. Students were seen waving their hands in a gesture of warm greeting. Upon reaching Narendra Nagar, Dr Ramgoolam and his entourage were treated to a traditional Uttarakhandi welcome at their five-star hotel. Local women, adorned in traditional attire, sang folk songs and applied tilak on his forehead, a gesture of respect and hospitality. Visibly impressed by the states breathtaking landscapes, Prime Minister Ramgoolam lauded Uttarakhands natural charm. The serene beauty of Uttarakhand is truly captivating, he reportedly remarked. We hope this visit will open new doors for cultural exchange and tourism, allowing more Mauritians to experience this incredible region. The Prime Minister and his wife were reportedly mesmerised by the picturesque views of Rishikesh from their hotel. During their four-day stay, which concludes on 15 September, the couple is scheduled to visit other significant spiritual and cultural sites, including Rishikesh and Haridwar. Officials anticipate that this high-profile visit will significantly boost Uttarakhands tourism sector and strengthen cultural ties between Mauritius and India, particularly with the Himalayan state. Elaborate security arrangements were in place throughout the Prime Ministers journey. A zero zone was declared from Jolly Grant Airport to Dhalwala for approximately 30 minutes, leading to temporary traffic halts at key junctions such as Indramani Badoni Chowk. Further stringent measures were implemented in Tehri district, with the entire stretch from Dhalwala to the Narendranagar bypass designated a zero zone. Vehicles arriving from the Chamba side were temporarily stopped at Bhadrakali and the bypass until the VIP convoy had passed, ensuring a smooth and secure passage. Traffic resumed normalcy only after the Prime Ministers convoy had cleared the area.
Major public outreach: Union Ministers to visit every flood-affected district in J&K, 3 States
Will inter-act with people, listen problems & submit report *Central package for J&K to be released shortly Sanjeev Pargal JAMMU, Sept 12: In a major public outreach, the Narendra Modi Government has asked the Union Ministers of State to visit every district in four flood-affected UT/States of Jammu and Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, Punjab and Uttarakhand for two days, inter-act with people hit by floods and rains and listen to their grievances. Follow the Daily Excelsior channel on WhatsApp Visits by [] The post Major public outreach: Union Ministers to visit every flood-affected district in J&K, 3 States appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Nainital's iconic Mall road on brink: New subsidence threat emerges as seven-year fix lingers
UTTARAKHAND: Uttarakhand, a State increasingly battling the ominous spectre of land subsidence, is now witnessing renewed concerns in its prime hill station, Nainital. Following the well-documented crises in Joshimath and Karnaprayag, the picturesque town's Lower Mall Road is experiencing fresh signs of sinking, raising fears of a potential collapse that could cripple local life and tourism. Alarmingly, a 20-meter stretch of the road, adjacent to a section that collapsed into Naini Lake seven years ago, has sunk by three to four inches, displaying prominent cracks. This development has intensified worries, especially since the permanent restoration of the 2018 collapsed area remains unfinished despite years of efforts and budget allocation. The situation is indeed concerning, stated Ratnesh Kumar Saxena, Executive Engineer of the Public Works Department (PWD). We are working to prevent further water seepage by filling the cracks with bitumen, which is an immediate measure. However, the long-term solution faces significant hurdles. The current subsidence mirrors a dramatic incident in 2018 when approximately 25 meters of the Lower Mall Road broke away and plunged into the lake. A temporary road, built using geo-bags, managed to restore traffic in about a month. However, the approved project for a permanent solution to that earlier damage, estimated at 3.48 crore and sanctioned in 2023, has been plagued by delays. Officials attribute the persistent setbacks to a combination of factors, including the monsoon season, high tourist influx, and initial difficulties in securing a contractor. Despite eight rounds of tendering, the PWD finally found a contractor this year, kindling hopes for the long-awaited repairs. However, the onset of the monsoon and the subsequent rise in the lake's water level have again halted progress. It is simply not possible to undertake permanent stabilization work with the current elevated water level of the lake, Saxena explained. Treatment can only commence once the water recedes, which means we are looking at next summer before comprehensive prevention work can begin. The predicament highlights the growing vulnerability of Uttarakhand's fragile Himalayan ecosystem. The state has been on high alert since early 2023, when severe land subsidence in Chamoli district's Joshimath and Karnaprayag towns necessitated the displacement of over 550 families, underscoring the urgent need for sustainable infrastructure development and robust disaster preparedness. As Nainital's iconic roadway teeters on the edge, residents and authorities alike face unprecedented challenges in safeguarding one of India's most cherished hill stations.
DEHRADUN: Uttarakhand's picturesque Tehri Lake region is poised for a major transformation into an an international tourism hub, with the Asian Development Bank (ADB) committing a substantial loan of $126.42 million (approximately Rs 1,050 crore) for its sustainable tourism development project. A landmark agreement regarding this was formally inked in New Delhi on Thursday between the central government and the ADB to bolster eco-friendly and climate-resilient tourism in the Himalayan state. The Uttarakhand government has long envisioned developing the expansive Tehri Lake area into a world-class destination, leveraging its natural beauty and potential for adventure sports. This significant financial backing from the ADB, formalised through an agreement between the Department of Economic Affairs under the Ministry of Finance and the multilateral lending agency, is crucial to bringing that vision to fruition. The comprehensive tourism development initiative will introduce a range of new activities and significantly upgrade existing infrastructure in Tehri, identified as one of Uttarakhand's most climate-vulnerable and economically disadvantaged regions. The project aims to provide enhanced facilities, superior connectivity, improved sanitation, and robust solid waste management systems for both domestic and international visitors. Officials anticipate the project will directly benefit over 87,000 residents through various employment and entrepreneurial opportunities, while also catering to an estimated 2.7 million tourists annually. The focus will be on creating a vibrant yet responsible tourism ecosystem. The Rs 1,050 crore loan agreement, specifically designed to promote rural development through sustainable and climate-sensitive tourism around Tehri Lake, was signed by Ms. Juhi Mukherjee, Joint Secretary in the Department of Economic Affairs, Ministry of Finance, and Kai Wei Yeo, Officer-in-Charge for ADB in India. Underscoring the project's potential, Joint Secretary Juhi Mukherjee remarked, This loan agreement with the ADB will be instrumental in transforming Uttarakhand's Tehri Lake region into a diverse, all-weather tourism destination, offering unique experiences year-round. She added that the focus is on creating a balanced development model. Echoing her sentiments, ADB's Kai Wei Yeo emphasized the broader impact. The Tehri Lake tourism development project will not only champion sustainable tourism practices but also significantly contribute to local economic growth by creating numerous employment opportunities for the communities, he stated, highlighting the bank's commitment to inclusive development.
Juhi Mukherjee, Joint Secretary, Department of Economic Affairs, said the ADB loan supports the governments policy to position Uttarakhand as a diversified, all-weather tourism destination
50 farmers honoured in Uttarakhand to mark 7 years of Project Unnati Apple
The Coca-Cola India Foundation, in collaboration with Indo-Dutch Horticulture Technologies, recognises progressive growers, including women, for adoption of high-density apple farming techniques
NDA Candidate CP Radhakrishnan Takes Oath As Indias 15th Vice President | NDA | BJP | PM Modi
Chandrapuram Ponnusamy Radhakrishnan took oath as the 15th Vice President of India on Friday at Rashtrapati Bhawan in New Delhi. President Droupadi Murmu administered the oath of office to Radhakrishnan in the presence of senior government officials and dignitaries.Prime Minister Narendra Modi, former Vice-Presidents Jagdeep Dhankhar and Venkaiah Naidu, former President Ram Nath Kovind, Home Minister Amit Shah, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu, Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami and others were present during the oath-taking ceremony. n18oc_indiaNews18 Mobile App - https://onelink.to/desc-youtube
Uttarakhand's Nepali heartache: Families divided by unrest await to reach out to loved ones
DEHRADUN: A wave of profound anxiety has swept through the Nepali community residing in Uttarakhand, particularly in Pithoragarh and Dehradun, following the outbreak of violence and civil unrest in Nepal. With communication lines severely hampered, many are struggling to reach their loved ones, leaving them grappling with an agonising silence. Nepali people here are desperately attempting to ascertain the situation back home, but phone calls to family members are often being unanswered. While some migrant Nepalis have managed to connect using expensive Nepali SIM cards, the high cost restricts prolonged conversations. We can only advise them to stay indoors and look after the children and elderly, one resident shared, highlighting the limited support they can offer from afar. We are physically here, maybe, but mentally, we are entirely consumed by the events unfolding in Nepal, expressed a concerned migrant. The unrest, fueled by anti-corruption protests and a ban on social media, has left the community deeply unsettled. The communication blackout has left many completely unaware of what is happening, deepening their fear. Sandeep Bohra, a Nepali resident in Pithoragarh, said, My mother Gaura, father Beer Bahadur, and other family members live in Bajhang. We spoke three days ago, but there has been no contact since then. There's no other way for me to reach them. Vikram Dhami, another local, shared a similar plight: My mother and wife are in Nepal. I came here to earn a living, but now I have no idea about their situation. For Ramesh Ram of Gothilapani, the situation is particularly distressing. I managed to speak to my family using a recharged phone, but it was very expensive. Earlier, social media was a cheap way to communicate, but the ban in Nepal has made things much harder, he lamented. Mahesh Ram, whose family is split between Pithoragarh and Nepal, confirmed, I haven't been able to speak to my brother or other relatives since the violence began. The concern extends beyond Pithoragarh to Dehradun, where the Nepali-origin population is equally distraught. Nepal's youth vs the 'nepo kids': A generation rises against a broken system Jharkhand BJP warns Hemant government of Nepal-like consequences if youngsters in State unite Shriram from Motihari, now residing in Pithoragarh, after watching videos of the protests, noted, The younger generation appears most agitated. It won't be easy to contain their anger. If the movement is forcibly suppressed, the future consequences could be very dangerous. In Dehradun, Surya Vikram Shahi worries for his family in Nepal. I've only managed to speak to one brother since the violent protests started; other family members' phones are unreachable, he said, highlighting that his anxiety is mounting daily. Urmila Tamang, whose two daughters-in-law are of Nepali origin, shared their distress. They married and came to Dehradun years ago, but this violence has left them in tears, consumed by worry for their families. Sona Shahi of Chandrabani, whose maternal home is in Nepal, has been filled with apprehension since the news of the unrest broke. Notably, the current events have also brought back memories of past turmoil. Pranjal Karki of Baitadi recalled, In 1996, there was an anti-monarchy movement in Nepal. Then, in 2008, the Maoists won, and the monarchy ended. Something or the other has been happening continuously since then. This historical context only adds to the community's deep-seated fears for the future. 'Peace will soon return to trouble-torn Nepal,' says Union Minister Piyush Goyal
Hasty Death Penalty Undermines Rule of Law, Says SC on Acquittal in Uttarakhand Case
Court warns against hasty use of the death penalty without full proof
Indian border security arrests 60 Nepal jailbreak inmates as protests leave thousands on the run
NEW DELHI: The Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB) that guards the India-Nepal border has caught about 60 people including a Bangladeshi national from various locations along the international front, officials said. Most of them are Nepalese who are suspected of having escaped during jailbreaks during the unrest in their country. SSB troops caught them from border points in Uttar Pradesh, Bihar and West Bengal over the last two days, the officials told PTI. They have been handed over to the respective state police forces and are being questioned, they said. A Bangladeshi national has also been apprehended from the Musharwa border post in Bihar's West Champaran district. He had managed to slip during a mob attack on the prison premises in Kathmandu. Two or three of those nabbed claim to be of Indian origin and this fact is being ascertained, the officials said. The SSB, which functions under the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), guards the 1,751-km-long unfenced India-Nepal front on India's eastern side. It has deployed about 50 battalions, translating to about 60,000 personnel, in Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, West Bengal and Sikkim that share the front with Nepal. The force has stepped up vigil in the frontier areas and enhanced surveillance along the border in the wake of the protests in Nepal. The SSB is in touch with its Nepalese counterpart APF. They have also undertaken joint patrols with them apart from independent flag marches in the border areas to send across a message that the Indian side is ready to meet any challenge emerging from the recent developments in Nepal, a senior official said. Nepal has been assured of all cooperation and genuine nationals of the two countries, carrying valid IDs, are being allowed to cross the border, he said. Three inmates were killed on Thursday during clashes with Nepalese security personnel at a jail, while more than 15,000 prisoners are stated to have escaped from more than two dozen jails since violent protests erupted in that country. With the latest deaths, the number of prisoners who died during clashes with security forces has increased to eight since the violence erupted on Tuesday. The violent agitation forced prime minister K P Sharma Oli to resign on Tuesday, following which the Nepal Army imposed restrictions due to a serious law and order situation across provinces.
DEHRADUN: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday visited Uttarakhand to take stock of the devastating impact of cloudbursts, torrential rains, and landslides that have ravaged the State this monsoon season. During his visit, the Prime Minister met with affected families, offering his condolences and assuring them of the Centre's full support in rebuilding their lives. In a significant announcement, PM Modi declared a financial package of 1200 crore for the disaster-stricken region. This aid includes an ex-gratia of 2 lakh for the kin of those who lost their lives and 50,000 for the injured. Children orphaned by the floods and landslides will receive comprehensive assistance under the PM CARES for Children scheme. The Central government also pledged its full backing for the reconstruction and restoration of damaged infrastructure in the affected areas. Earlier in the day, PM Modi arrived in Dehradun, where he was received by Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami and Governor Lt. General Gurpreet Singh at the airport. However, his pre-scheduled aerial survey of the disaster-hit regions via an MI-17 helicopter had to be cancelled due to inclement weather conditions. IIT study warns of earthquake-induced landslides in four Uttarakhand districts, Rudraprayag most vulnerable Despite the weather disruption, the Prime Minister proceeded with an official meeting in Dehradun to review ongoing relief and rehabilitation efforts and to assess the extent of the damage. During this meeting, he reiterated that the immediate financial assistance and advances being provided under the Disaster Management Act and rules are interim measures. Further review will be conducted, and additional assistance will be provided based on the state's memorandum and the report from the central team, PM Modi clarified before returning to Delhi towards the evening. Emphasising a multi-pronged approach to aid the affected regions and people, PM Modi outlined several initiatives. These include the reconstruction of homes under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY), restoration of national highways, rebuilding of schools, assistance from the Prime Minister's National Relief Fund (PMNRF), and the distribution of mini-kits for animal husbandry. He specifically mentioned that rural families whose homes were damaged by floods would receive financial aid under a special project within PMAY-Gramin. Uttarakhand suffers Rs 5,000 crore losses from monsoon rains, worst since Kedarnath tragedy Inter-ministerial Central teams have already been dispatched to Uttarakhand to assess the damage, and disposal of further aid will be considered based on their detailed reports. The Prime Minister expressed his profound condolences to the families who lost loved ones in the disaster, assuring them that the Centre would work hand-in-hand with the state government to provide every possible help during this difficult time. He also commended the swift relief operations carried out by the NDRF, SDRF, Army, state administration, and other service organisations. However, the announced financial package drew criticism from the opposition. Speaking to TNIE , Congress State President Karan Mahara stated, The 1200 crore assistance announced by the Prime Minister is insufficient compared to the losses incurred during this monsoon season's disasters in the State. The Centre should release at least 10,000 crore as aid to the State. Uttarakhand has witnessed immense devastation from cloudbursts and landslides in areas like Uttarkashi and other regions, resulting in numerous fatalities and rendering hundreds homeless. The state government estimates the total loss from natural disasters to be over 5700 crore. According to official figures, from the beginning of April to August 31 this year, 79 people have died, 115 have been injured, and 90 are reported missing due to natural disasters.
PM Modi Announces Rs 1,200 Crore Assistance For Disaster-Hit Uttarakhand
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has announced a Rs 1,200 crore assistance package for the disaster-hit areas of Uttarakhand.
PM Modi reviews flood situation in Uttarakhand; holds meeting with governor, CM Dhami
Modi Announces Rs 1,200 Crore Aid for Flood-Hit Uttarakhand
Ex gratia relief, support for orphaned children, and full Centre backing for rebuilding assured
PM Modi announces Rs 1,200 crore aid for flood-hit Uttarakhand, meets victims in Dehradun
PM Modi Reviews Situation In Flood-Hit Uttarakhand, Announces Rs 1200 Cr Aid
PM Modi visited Dehradun, reviewed Uttarakhand flood damage, announced Rs 1200 crore aid, ex-gratia for victims, and support for orphaned children under PM CARES.
Anxiety grows among Nepali citizens in Uttarakhands Pithoragarh as families remain cut off
DEHRADUN: Nepali citizens residing in Uttarakhands Pithoragarh district are increasingly anxious following the outbreak of violence in Nepal. Many are trying to get updates on the situation through phone calls, but are struggling to connect with their families. Some expatriates managed to reach relatives using Nepali SIM cards, but the high cost of calls has limited their conversations. They are advising their families not to leave home and to ensure the safety of children and elders. Several Nepali expatriates said that while they are physically in India, their minds are entirely occupied with the unfolding events in Nepal. The unrest has left them worried and distressed. Those living in Pithoragarh and nearby areas are especially concerned about the protests in Nepal against social media restrictions and corruption. With communication services disrupted, they are unable to contact family members or get reliable updates on the situation. Sandeep Bohra, a Nepali resident, said, My mother Gaura, father Bir Bahadur, and other family members live in Bajaang. We last spoke three days ago, and there has been no contact since. I have no other way to reach them. Resident Vikram Dhami added, My mother and wife live in Nepal. I came here for work, and I have no information about their condition. Similarly, Ramesh Ram from Gothilapani explained that he spoke to his family using a prepaid phone, but the call was very expensive. Earlier, social media provided an affordable way to communicate, but the ban on social media in Nepal has worsened the situation. Mahesh Ram, another Nepali resident, said that while some of his family is in Pithoragarh, his brother and other relatives are in Nepal, and he has not been able to reach them since the violence began. Some expatriates living with their families in Pithoragarh also expressed deep concern. Shriram from Motihari said he had watched protest videos online, observing that the youth appeared most agitated. He warned, It will not be easy to contain the anger of the youth. If attempts are made to forcibly suppress the movement, the future consequences could be very dangerous. Recalling previous movements in Nepal, expatriates expressed additional apprehension. Pranjal Karki from Baitadi remembered the anti-monarchy movement of 1996. In 2008, the Maoists won in Nepal, and the monarchy was abolished. Since then, something or the other has been continuously happening, he said, pointing to the countrys history of instability.
India, ADB Ink $126 Million Loan Deal To Promote Tourism In Uttarakhand
The project aims to benefit over 87,000 residents and 2.7 million annual visitors through improved tourism planning, upgraded infrastructure, enhanced sanitation and waste management, and disaster preparedness.
Govt Of India, ADB Ink $126 Million Deal To Promote Sustainable Tourism In Uttarakhand's Tehri
The government of India and the Asian Development Bank signed a $126.42 million loan agreement to promote sustainable and climate-resilient tourism in Uttarakhands Tehri Lake.
Nepal jailbirds on the run nabbed, border security cover ramped up
PATNA/LUCKNOW/DEHRADUN/JAIPUR: Amid stepped up vigil along the India-Nepal border, Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB) personnel have nabbed 19 prisoners who escaped from Nepal jails taking advantage of the unrest and tried to enter Bihar and UP that border the Himalayan country. Ten jail inmates who had escaped from Dillibazar jail in Kathmandu were detained at the border in Bihar and nine in UP. SSB sleuths handed the 10 inmates, including two from Bihar, over to Bittha More and Sursand police stations of Sitamarhi district. In UP, the SSB rounded up four Nepali prisoners at Sonouli border in Maharajganj and five at Khunwa border in Siddharthnagar, officials said, adding the security agencies are grilling the Nepali prisoners. Central agencies have sounded a major security alert along the India-Nepal border, cautioning that miscreants could exploit the unrest to trigger violence in adjoining Indian states. State governments have asked police to ramp up security along the border. We are keeping a close vigil on the border, said Pramod Kumar Mandal, DIG, Purnea. Madhubani SP Yogendra Kumar said the district police and all border police stations have been placed on high alert. People are being allowed to cross the border only after thorough frisking. We are checking the identifications. Our efforts are that no anti-social elements cross the border, he said. Amid Nepal protests, security heightened in seven border districts in Uttar Pradesh Following the state governments directives, UP DGP Rajiv Krishna ordered a round-the-clock surveillance, intensified patrolling, and deployment of additional police personnel in Shravasti, Balrampur, Bahraich, Pilibhit, Lakhimpur Kheri, Siddharthnagar and Maharajganj, the seven districts which share around 600-km long border with Nepal. A special control room has also been set up at the Police Headquarters in Lucknow to assist Indian nationals stranded in Nepal. ADG (law & order) Amitabh Yash said, The administration is providing all possible assistance to Indian citizens stranded in Nepal. Security forces have heightened vigilance along the entire border stretch, from Pithoragarhs Dharchula in Uttarakhand to the districts bordering Nepal in Bihar. The SSB has placed all border police stations on high alert, with officers continuously monitoring the situation to prevent any infiltration or disturbances. In Dharchula, movement across the bridge connecting India and Nepal has been stopped, with instructions issued to allow passage only in emergency situations. Uttarakhand CM Pushkar Singh Dhami asked officials to keep an eye on the activities of anti-social or mischievous elements in their respective areas by conducting intensive checking. Thousands of Indian tourists remain stranded in Nepal following the violent protests that broke out on September 8. Among them are many families from Rajasthan, including the relatives of independent MLA from Bayana, Ritu Banawat, and former Udaipur councilor Anil Singhal. Assembly Speaker Vasudev Devnani said the state government is in constant touch with the Indian Embassy. The evacuation process will begin as soon as the situation improves, he said. Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma appealed to the stranded people to stay in touch with the Indian Embassy. Airlines to operate spl flights to and from Kathmandu With Kathmandus Tribhuvan International Airport opening for operations on Wednesday by 4 pm (IST), the Ministry of Civil Aviation has asked two leading operatorsAir India and IndiGoto operate additional flights from Wednesday night for the next few days. The fares shall be kept at a reasonable level, the ministry has advised. India-Nepal international border along Uttarakhand sealed following fresh disputes, protests in Nepal
PM Modi to Survey Flood-Hit AReas in Uttarakhand Today
A high-level meeting will be held to discuss all aspects related to the disaster
PM Modi To Visit Uttarakhand Today To Inspect Flood-Hit Areas
Prime Minister Narendra Modi will visit Uttarakhand on Thursday to review the devastation caused by the relentless monsoon that has battered every district of the state.
EC to take call on pan-India SIR rollout soon; likely to be held before year-end
NEW DELHI: The Election Commission will soon decide on the date to roll out special intensive revision on a pan-India basis and the exercise to clean up the voter list across states may take place before the end of the year, officials said Wednesday. After a day-long meeting of EC's state chief electoral officers here, officials said that with as many as five assembly polls due next year, the all-India SIR could take place in the coming months in 2025. At the meeting, the CEOs suggested documents for the purpose of ensuring that no eligible citizen is left out of the electoral roll and no ineligible person is included in it. It was reiterated that these documents should promote ease of submission for the eligible citizens. This assumes significance as the Supreme Court has directed the EC to accept the Aadhaar card as the 12th document, besides 11 others, as proof of identity of the elector. The CEOs were told to keep the electoral rolls of their states, published after the last SIR, ready. Some state CEOs have already put the voter list published after their last SIR on their websites. The Commission has said that after Bihar, SIR will be carried out in the entire country. Assembly elections in Assam, Kerala, Puducherry, Tamil Nadu and West Bengal are due in 2026. In a statement, the poll authority said a presentation on the strategies, constraints and best practices adopted was made by the CEO of Bihar so that other CEOs can learn from their experiences. The CEOs gave detailed presentations on the number of electors, the qualifying date of the last SIR and the electoral roll in their state as per the last completed SIR. The CEOs also presented the status of digitisation and uploading of the Electoral Roll after the previous SIR on the State/UT CEO website. They also gave the status of mapping of current electors with the electors as per the last SIR in their state or Union Territory. In order to ensure that there is a uniform implementation of the Commission's initiative to ensure that no polling station has over 1,200 electors, the status of rationalisation of polling stations was also reviewed, it said. The primary aim of the intensive revision is to weed out foreign illegal migrants by checking their place of birth. The move assumes significance in the wake of a crackdown in various states on illegal foreign migrants, including from Bangladesh and Myanmar. Eventually, the poll authority will begin SIR in the entire country for the discharge of its constitutional mandate to protect the integrity of the electoral rolls. As part of the intense review, poll officials will carry out house-to-house verification to ensure an error-free voters' list. Amid allegations by opposition parties that the EC has fudged voter data to help the BJP, the poll panel has taken additional steps in the intensive revision to ensure illegal migrants do not get enrolled in the voter list. An additional 'declaration form' has been introduced for a category of applicants seeking to become electors or shifting from outside the state. They will have to give an undertaking that they were born in India before July 1, 1987 and provide any document establishing the date of birth and/or place of birth. One of the options listed in the declaration form is that they were born in India between July 1, 1987 and December 2, 2004. They will also have to submit documents about the date/place of birth of their parents. The SIR in poll-bound Bihar has come under attack from opposition parties, which questioned the timing of the exercise and claimed that crores of eligible citizens will be denied voting rights for want of documents. The Supreme Court has asked the EC to ensure that no eligible citizen is left behind. The website of the Delhi CEO has the 2008 voter list when the last intensive revision took place in the national capital. In Uttarakhand, the last SIR took place in 2006, and that year's electoral roll is now on the state CEO website. The last SIR in states will serve as the cut-off date, just as the 2003 voter list of Bihar is being used by the EC for intensive revision. Most of the states carried out the revision of electoral rolls between 2002 and 2004.
Anglo-Indians fight for visibility and voice in 'numbers game' across the country
KOCHI: In what many describe as a perilous umbers game, India's Anglo-Indian communitydescended from European fathers and Indian mothers during colonial timesis grappling with the erosion of its political influence and cultural footprint. The 2011 census officially pegged their numbers at a mere 296, a figure hotly contested by community leaders who insist the true count exceeds 4,00,000. This statistical disparity has fuelled tangible setbacks, including the stripping away of their assured seats in legislative bodies. Compounding the issue, younger generations are increasingly emigrating or intermarrying, threatening the community's distinct identity amid India's fast-evolving society. Dr Charles Dias, a former Member of Parliament and president of the Federation of Anglo-Indian Associations in India, outlined the historical safeguards: Articles 331 and 333 of the Constitution once permitted the nomination of two Anglo-Indian members to the Lok Sabha and one to each of 12 state legislative assemblies. However, in 2020, this provision was revoked through the 104th Constitutional Amendment in a profoundly unjust manner. Dias noted, According to the Union government, the Anglo-Indian population stands at just 296 according to the 2011 census, and they are 'well off'. These claims were rigorously challenged by opposition parties, backed by data. Countering the official narrative, Dias highlighted association-collected data showing a nationwide population of nearly 4,15,000. He further estimated an additional 50,000 individuals dispersed across urban areas, unaffiliated with any associations. Echoing these concerns, Harry Maclure from Chennai, who runs the magazine Anglos in the Wind, challenged the official census figures and called for continued representation. You go to any wedding of our community and you can see 500 people. The census data is wrong. We were a big community and the maximum recorded population is around 7.5-8 lakh, he said. Maclure acknowledged the community's decline but emphasised its relative size: It is true that we are now a dwindling community but we are bigger than the Parsi community and we do need representation. He added that many from the community are marrying outside it, making the preservation of culture and heritage an ongoing struggle. Maclure remains cautiously optimistic, noting that while old settlements are disappearing, the educated youth in the community feel more comfortable in India and could carry forward the community's legacy. Charles Dias emphasised that the Anglo-Indian community's contributions to modern India far outweigh their population size. He highlighted their unparalleled role in nation-building across sectors like education, sports, railways, post and telegraph, health, and especially the armed forces, where eight Anglo-Indians have risen to the rank of Air Vice-Marshal and over 25 have received top gallantry awards such as the Vir Chakra and Maha Vir Chakra. The three service chiefsAdmiral R L Pereira, Air Chief Marshal Denis Anthony La Fontaine, and Air Chief Marshal Norman Anil Kumar Browneexemplify the Anglo-Indian community's unwavering commitment to the nation, he said. Despite these achievements, the community faces significant hurdles. In 2013, the ministry of minority affairs formed a fact-finding team to study the problems and aspirations of the Anglo-Indian community in cities including Kolkata, Hyderabad, Bengaluru, Chennai, and Kochi. The team's report noted that amongst the various challenges and problems being faced by members of the Anglo-Indian community in India, the more significant ones are related to (1) identity crisis, (ii) lack of employment, (iii) educational backwardness, (iv) lack of proper facilities, and (v) cultural erosion. ANGLO-INDIAN POPULATION Assam 4,300 West Bengal 37,500 Bihar - 8,200 Chhattisgarh 7,500 Odisha 4,500 Madhya Pradesh 25,500 Jharkhand 7,500 Uttarakhand 5,500 Uttar Pradesh 18,500 Punjab 2,500 Haryana 3,800 Delhi 4,500 Maharashtra 27,500 Andhra Pradesh 15,500 Telangana 17,500 Goa 1,500 Karnataka 42,500 Tamil Nadu 42,000 Kerala 82,500 Total: 4,15,000 (Source: Federation of Anglo-Indian Associations in India) STATE-WISE ENUMERATION (2011 CENSUS) West Bengal -9 Odisha - 4 Chhattisgarh - 3 Maharashtra - 16 Andhra Pradesh - 62 Karnataka - 9 Kerala - 124 Tamil Nadu - 69 Total: 296
NEW DELHI: Armed soldiers patrolled empty streets and guarded key buildings in Nepals capital on Wednesday, enforcing a strict curfew amid uneasy calm following days of violent anti-corruption protests that forced Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli to resign. Hopes are rising for a political resolution as youngsters signal readiness for talks, even as nearly 700 air passengers, including Indian pilgrims, remain stranded at Kathmandu that got reopened in the evening. The Nepal Army, now effectively in control of security, said the situation remained tense but under watch, and extended a nationwide curfew until at least 6 am Thursday. Infiltrators under the guise of protests have committed arson, looting, and violent attacks. We are committed to restoring peace and protecting lives, said Army spokesperson Raja Ram Basnet. Normalcy returns to Nepal after army steps in, but protesters demand reforms The Health Ministry confirmed 29 deaths since Monday and over 600 injuries, including both protesters and police, in what has become Nepals worst unrest in decades. Armoured vehicles guarded the scorched Parliament building, set ablaze on Tuesday, while security checkpoints checked IDs of every vehicle crossing city limits. The protests erupted after a social media ban sparked outrage among Gen Z-led groups already angry at entrenched corruption, political dynasties, and government overreach. Though the ban was lifted, the damage is already done. Demonstrations quickly escalated into riots, with government buildings, party offices, and even former prime ministers homes set on fire. Prime Minister Oli resigned Tuesday night in a televised statement, saying he was stepping down to facilitate a constitutional political solution. The leaderless protest movement, primarily made up of students and young professionals, has now proposed former Chief Justice Sushila Karki as interim prime minister. At 73, Karki is seen as a rare figure of integrity in a political landscape dominated by patronage. Advocate Raman Kumar Karna, speaking to Reuters, confirmed that protest leaders are seeking a meeting with the army to present the proposal. Amid Nepal protests, security heightened in seven border districts in Uttar Pradesh India-Nepal international border along Uttarakhand sealed following fresh disputes, protests in Nepal Despite the violence, signs of civic resolve were visible in Kathmandu on Wednesday. Small groups of young people, some wearing masks and carrying bin liners, were seen cleaning streets outside charred buildings. Meanwhile, Kathmandus Tribhuvan International Airport reopened, but hundreds remain stranded, including Indian nationals. Among them are 130 pilgrims from the Isha Foundation returning from Kailash Mansarovar, and dozens of tourists caught mid-transit. We came for Pashupatinath darshan, but are stuck. The Indian Embassy told us to stay where we are until they can advise further, said Mayur Patil, a traveller from Mumbai, told a news agency. Authorities said 27 people have been arrested in connection with the unrest, and 31 illegal firearms have been recovered. The army has warned that anyone found engaging in violence or intimidation will face prosecution under national security laws. India's neighbourhood in turmoil, Delhi must watch situation carefully: Ex-Indian envoys
DEHRADUN: The India-Nepal international border, particularly along Uttarakhand, has been sealed following fresh disputes and nationwide protests erupting in Nepal. All movement of vehicles and pedestrians across the border was halted on Wednesday morning and will remain suspended until further notice. However, Nepali citizens residing in India or visiting are being permitted to return to their home country. The Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB) has been actively appealing to Nepali nationals to facilitate their safe passage back. The border closure has also brought to a standstill the daily movement of essential goods from the Banbasa region. Fuel, soap, pulses, rice, and salt, which are regularly supplied from Banbasa to border towns in Nepal, are no longer reaching Nepali citizens through local shops. Nepal is grappling with escalating violence, arson, and uncontrolled situations. In response, the Nepali Army on Wednesday imposed nationwide restrictive orders from morning until 5 pm, followed by a curfew until 6 am the next day. A statement from the army warned that any form of protest, vandalism, arson, or attacks targeting individuals or property during this period would be considered a criminal activity and be dealt with accordingly. The statement also highlighted the potential for ape and violent attacks, stating, Considering the country's security situation, restrictive orders and curfew have been enforced. In light of the turmoil, Indian security forces have heightened vigilance along the entire border stretch, from Pithoragarh's Dharchula in Uttarakhand to the districts bordering Nepal in Bihar. The SSB has placed all border police stations on high alert, with officers continuously monitoring the situation to prevent any infiltration or disturbances. Amid Nepal protests, security heightened in seven border districts in Uttar Pradesh In Uttarakhand's Dharchula, movement across the bridge connecting India and Nepal has been stopped, with instructions issued to allow passage only in emergency situations. Protests are also being witnessed in Nepal's Darchula district, alongside Kathmandu. Nepali police personnel are conducting continuous patrols. On Tuesday, enraged protesters vandalised the Aamale office in Darchula, leading to a curfew being imposed in the area. Further east, Madhubani SP Yogendra Kumar visited the Bethonha border check post in the Jaynagar police station area. Protesters had staged aggressive demonstrations in Nepal's Siraha district, just three kilometers from Jaynagar. Followingly, SP Yogendra Kumar inspected the border late Tuesday evening and stated that the Madhubani border area has been placed on high alert due to the violent protests in Nepal. Meanwhile, Nepali citizens residing in India are expressing deep anxiety for the safety of their families back home. Bal Bahadur, a Nepali national living in Dehradun's Vijay Colony for the past 10 years, told this reporter, We are most worried about our family members as there has been no news from there. Many Nepalis working in Uttarakhand, especially after reports of violence sparked by a social media ban, are calling home to ascertain the situation and appealing their relatives to stay indoors. As soon as we hear news of violence, our heart race, and we immediately call home, said one resident. India's neighbourhood in turmoil, Delhi must watch situation carefully: Ex-Indian envoys
PM Modi to conduct aerial survey of Uttarakhand's disaster-hit areas on September 11
DEHRADUN: Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to conduct an aerial survey of Uttarakhand's disaster-stricken mountainous regions on Thursday, assessing the extensive damage caused by this year's relentless monsoon rains and related calamities. According to government sources, PM Modi will arrive in Dehradun after attending an event in Varanasi. He is expected to undertake an aerial survey of the disaster and flood-hit areas around 4:15 pm. Following this, at 5 pm, the Prime Minister will hold a high-level review meeting with state officials at Jolly Grant Airport to discuss the relief and rehabilitation efforts. On Wednesday afternoon, Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami visited Jolly Grant Airport to personally oversee preparations for the Prime Minister's visit, instructing officials to ensure all arrangements are made in a timely and meticulous manner. CM Dhami highlighted the Prime Minister's deep connection with the state. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has a special affection for Uttarakhand. This is why, during this difficult time of disaster, the state has continuously received his unwavering support and guidance. His arrival will further strengthen disaster relief efforts in Uttarakhand, Dhami stated. This year, Uttarakhand has suffered extensive damage due to excessive rainfall and widespread flooding. There is a strong expectation that the central government will provide a substantial economic package to the state for disaster relief, rescue, reconstruction, and rehabilitation, akin to the assistance offered to Punjab and Himachal Pradesh. Sources from the State Disaster Management Office indicate a grim toll: since April, 85 people have lost their lives in various natural disasters across Uttarakhand, while 94 are still reported missing. Additionally, 128 individuals have sustained serious injuries in different incidents. The Disaster Management Department's data reveals assets worth approximately Rs 1944 crore have been destroyed, including vital roads, schools, power lines, substations, and irrigation canals. Uttarakhand suffers Rs 5,000 crore losses from monsoon rains, worst since Kedarnath tragedy Furthermore, an estimated Rs 3,700 crore is required to secure properties currently at high risk from further damage. Earlier, an Inter-Ministerial Central Team from the Government of India, which had been assessing the damage in the state, met with Chief Minister Dhami. The Chief Minister emphasised, Uttarakhand is an extremely disaster-sensitive state. During the monsoon season, it grapples with severe problems of landslides, floods, and waterlogging due to excessive rainfall. He urged national-level institutions to collaborate on further developing advanced forecasting systems to minimise damage from landslides. CM Dhami further stressed that his year's heavy rainfall has caused extensive damage in various regions, resulting in both loss of life and significant harm to assets. He highlighted that cloudbursts and landslides in the hilly areas cause permanent land damage, rendering such areas unusable for farming or construction, and called for an effective long-term action plan to address this. The Central Team, led by Joint Secretary R. Prasanna of the Ministry of Home Affairs, had surveyed damage in districts like Uttarkashi, Rudraprayag, and Nainital. After meeting the Chief Minister, the team commended the state government's relief operations, including the adequate arrangements for lodging and food in relief camps, the provision of on-site medical facilities, and other basic amenities for the affected, based on feedback received from the victims. Uttarakhand grapples with double crisis: Floods kill 80, 90 missing; State fights epidemic threat
India Watching Nepal Unrest With Caution, Prioritising Border Security: Sources | Exclusive
Sources say almost 2 crore Indians, mainly in Bihar, UP, Sikkim, and Uttarakhand, are directly linked to Nepal through family ties, trade relations, and religious connections.
Banana republic of cricket? Uttarakhand HC questions BCCI after audit shows 35 lakh splurge on fruit
The Uttarakhand High Court has embroiled the BCCI in a controversy surrounding the Cricket Association of Uttarakhand's financial dealings. A petition highlighted a 35 lakh expenditure on bananas, raising concerns about the alleged misuse of 12 crore in government funds.
PM Modi to survey flood hit Uttarakhand, will be holding review meeting
PM Narendra Modi will undertake an aerial survey of the disaster-affected areas of Uttarakhand on Thursday and chair a high-level meeting to review the situation. Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami reached the Jollygrant Airport to take stock of the preparations in view of the prime minister`s visit on Thursday.
PM Modi to host Mauritian counterpart Ramgoolam in Varanasi during state visit
NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi will host his Mauritian counterpart, H.E. Dr Navinchandra Ramgoolam, during his state visit to India from September 9 to 16, in Varanasi, Modis parliamentary constituency and home to the famed Kashi Vishwanath temple, along with other cultural and religious landmarks. Following his engagements in Varanasi, the Prime Minister will proceed to Dehradun, where he will conduct an aerial survey of flood-affected regions in Uttarakhand. In Dehradun, Prime Minister Modi will also chair a high-level review meeting with officials. According to a statement by the Prime Ministers Office (PMO), the meeting between the two leaders, PM Modi and the Prime Minister of Mauritius, in the historic city of Varanasi underscores the enduring civilisational connect, spiritual bonds, and deep-rooted people-to-people ties that have shaped the special and unique relationship between India and Mauritius. During the bilateral discussions, the two leaders will review the full spectrum of cooperation, with particular focus on development partnership and capacity building, the PMO stated in a statement on Wednesday. It also said that both leaders will discuss opportunities for expanding collaboration in health, education, science & technology, energy, infrastructure, as well as in emerging domains such as renewable energy, digital public infrastructure and the blue economy. Official sources further added that the visit builds upon the positive momentum generated by PM Modis State Visit to Mauritius in March 2025, during which the two leaders elevated the bilateral relationship to an Enhanced Strategic Partnership. As a valued partner and close maritime neighbour in the Indian Ocean Region, Mauritius is key to Indias MAHASAGAR (Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Region) Vision and the Neighbourhood First policy, the official said. It also added that the deepening cooperation between the two countries carries significance not only for the prosperity of the people of both countries, but also for the collective aspirations of the Global South. The Varanasi Summit will mark a significant milestone in the shared journey of India and Mauritius towards mutual prosperity, sustainable development and a secure and inclusive future, the PMO added in a statement.
Rs 35 Lakh On Bananas: Uttarakhand HC Notice To BCCI In 12-Crore CAU Funds Probe
The petitioners allege the association siphoned off crores under the guise of food expenses and claim that facilities promised to state players were never provided.
EC top brass brainstorms with state poll machinery on pan-India SIR preparedness
NEW DELHI: A crucial meeting of the Election Commission with its state officials is underway to discuss preparations for a pan-India roll out of the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls. While senior EC officials are expected to make a presentation on the SIR policy of the Commission, the chief electoral officer of Bihar would share the state's experience in implementing SIR. This is the third meeting of CEOs after Gyanesh Kumar took over as the chief election commissioner in February. However, Wednesday's day-long meeting assumes significance as the preparedness of a pan-India SIR are being discussed, officials said. The Commission has said that after Bihar, SIR will be carried out in the entire country. There are indications that the exercise would commence later this year ahead of assembly elections in Assam, Kerala, Puducherry, Tamil Nadu and West Bengal in 2026. The primary aim of the intensive revision is to weed out foreign illegal migrants by checking their place of birth. The move assumes significance in the wake of a crackdown in various states on illegal foreign migrants, including from Bangladesh and Myanmar. Eventually, the poll authority will begin SIR in the entire country for the discharge of its constitutional mandate to protect the integrity of the electoral rolls. As part of the intense review, poll officials will carry out house-to-house verification to ensure an error-free voters' list. Amid allegations by opposition parties that the EC has fudged voter data to help the BJP, the poll panel has taken additional steps in the intensive revision to ensure illegal migrants do not get enrolled in the voters' list. An additional 'declaration form' has been introduced for a category of applicants seeking to become electors or shifting from outside the state. They will have to undertake that they were born in India before July 1, 1987 and provide any document establishing date of birth and/or place of birth. One of the options listed in the declaration form is that they were born in India between July 1, 1987 and December 2, 2004. They will also have to submit documents about the date/place of birth of their parents. But Bihar voters list revision has come under attack from opposition parties claiming crores of eligible citizens will be devoid of voting rights for want of documents. The Supreme Court has asked EC to ensure that no eligible citizen is left behind. Some of the state chief electoral officers have started putting out voters' list published after the last SIR held in their states. The website of Delhi CEO has the 2008 voters' list when the last intensive revision took place in the national capital. In Uttarakhand the last SIR took place in 2006 and that year's electoral roll is now on the state CEO website. The last SIR in states will serve as cut off dates as 2003 voters' list of Bihar is being used by EC for intensive revision. Most of the states carried out revision of electoral rolls between 2002 and 2004. Bihar SIR: Supreme Court asks EC to consider Aadhaar as '12th document' for proof of identity
Nepal unrest spills to border: Indian trade routes hit; UP, Bengal, Bihar, Uttarakhand on high alert
Violent anti-government protests in Nepal have triggered a scramble in India to protect its eastern and northern borders, disrupting trade routes and causing long queues of stranded vehicles. Border towns from Bengal to Uttar Pradesh are feeling the impact, with disruptions at key crossings like Kakarvitta-Panitanki and Raxaul.
Dehradun Diary | Kedarnath pilgrimage becomes dearer
Pilgrimage to Kedarnath will now be costlier as helicopter service fares have surged by 45.86%. The Uttarakhand Civil Aviation Development Authority (UCADA) approved the hike, effective September 15. Its CEO Ashish Chauhan stated, The fare increase was necessitated by reduced daily shuttle flights and limited seats from Guptkashi, Sersi, and Phata. Bookings for the second phase of services, which resume after earlier suspensions due to accidents, will open on Wednesday on the IRCTC website. New standard operating procedures for safety, drafted by a 10-member committee, will also govern operations, ensuring safer aerial journeys to the revered shrine. Central team surveys Chamolis disaster toll An inter-ministerial Union government team surveyed the disaster-hit area of Chamoli on Monday, assessing over `15 crore in damages. The team conducted ground inspections in Tharali and aerial surveys of Chepado, Nanda Nagar, Karnaprayag, and Joshimath.Chamoli District Magistrate Sandeep Tiwari presented a detailed report, highlighting extensive damage to the Public Works Department and PMGSY roads. In Tharali, one person had died and another went missing, with many homes destroyed and over 50 shops damaged. A local official described the scale of destruction as immense as the team concluded its assessment. 2 Bangladeshi imposters among 13 jailed in Kaliyar Police have arrested 13 individuals, including two Bangladeshi nationals, under Operation Kalnemi during the annual Sabir Pak Urs in Kaliyar. The Bangladeshis, living under assumed identities, were identified as Mohammad Ujjwal (alias Baba Mohan) and Mohammad Yusuf (alias Shankar Baba). One Bangladeshi was previously arrested in 2020, stated SSP Pramendra Dobal. Both face charges under the Foreign Passport Act and have been jailed. The other 11 impostors were also prosecuted. Dobal emphasised, Our priority is the security of pilgrims, as the statewide operation continues its crackdown on fake mendicants. Narendra sethi Our correspondent in Uttarakhand narendrasethi@newindianexpress.com
Border guarding force SSB on high alert with additional deployment following turmoil in Nepal
NEW DELHI: Amid political turmoil in Nepal, authorities have issued an alert along the India-Nepal border, with Indias border guarding force, the Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB), having intensified vigilance. It is closely monitoring the situation to prevent any spillover of unrest into Indian territory, officials said on Tuesday. An alert has been issued on the India-Nepal border, considering the unrest in Nepal. Sashastra Seema Bal is keeping a close watch on the development, a senior MHA official said. The official also emphasised that the current heightened vigilance is preventive in nature and the situation remained under control. The officials also said that adequate deployment is in place at the border and strict checks have been implemented at several border outposts. Nepal's youth vs the 'nepo kids': A generation rises against a broken system Coordination with the local administration has also been intensified to ensure the smooth movement of people while ensuring security of the country, they added. It is to be noted here that the open India-Nepal border, stretching over 1,751 km across states including Uttarakhand, Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal and Sikkim, allows unrestricted movement of citizens of both countries. The movement of people across the borders has been allowed since Independence to foster close socio-economic and cultural ties. But, at times when political unrest or protests erupt in Nepal, special security measures are taken by Indian authorities. In the past, border alerts have been issued during periods of internal turmoil in Nepal, including the 2015 Madhesi protests, which had affected trade and cross-border movement. The SSB is one of Indias Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs), which function under the MHA with a strength of over 90,000 personnel. The protests in Kathmandu erupted following the Nepalese government blocked access to several social media platforms, including Facebook, claiming social media users with fake IDs were spreading hate speech and fake news, and committing fraud and other crimes via some platforms. Border districts of Bihar on high alert after violence erupted in Nepal
Police, Commission question NARI-2025 report for ranking Dehradun as 'unsafe' city
DEHRADUN: A controversial report by Pvalue Analytics, which branded Dehradun an unsafe city for women in its National Annual Report and Index (NARI) 2025, has sparked outrage in Uttarakhand. The report has drawn sharp criticism and a full-scale challenge from the State Women's Commission and local police. The Uttarakhand State Women's Commission has vehemently objected to the report, casting serious doubt on its reliability. On Tuesday, the Commission issued a stern directive to Pvalue Analytics, demanding that all survey-related documents and minutes of meetings to be submitted within one week. On Monday, Mayank Dahiya, a representative from Pvalue Analytics, appeared before the Commission. He described the NARI 2025 as an academic report and expressed regret over the controversy, but failed to provide satisfactory answers to the Commission's pointed questions regarding the methodology and data. Due to a lack of crucial information, the Commission reprimanded Mr. Dahiya and has now ordered the company's Managing Director and the entire research team to appear at the next hearing, a Commission official stated. Commission Chairperson, Kusum Kandwal did not mince words, telling TNIE , Several serious flaws have been found in the report. It is entirely unclear which women were included in the survey, what specific questions were asked, and what the actual research criteria were. She warned, If a satisfactory explanation is not provided by the company at the next hearing on September 15, the Commission will not hesitate to take necessary action. In a separate development, sources close to TNIE revealed that Pvalue Analytics representatives appeared before Senior Superintendent of Police Ajay Singh, where they struggled to provide convincing answers to police queries. The police probe was launched following widespread objections from trader organisations, hotel associations, and educational institutions, all of whom demanded action against the report for categorising Dehradun among the 10 most unsafe cities for women in the country. SSP Singh had earlier assigned the investigation to SP Rishikesh, who had issued a notice to the company. On Monday, Dahiya also met with SSP Singh, claiming the survey was conducted for a university academic research curriculum, with two distinct teams handling data collection and analysis. However, he reportedly failed to provide satisfactory explanations for fundamental questions about the survey's basis. SSP Ajay Singh has now directed the company's Managing Director, along with members of the data collection and analysis teams, and all documents related to the research/survey, to be presented within a week. If satisfactory answers are not provided within the stipulated time, or if the facts presented are found to be baseless, strict legal action will be taken against the company, the SSP Singh clarified, underscoring the seriousness of the allegations. Pvalue Analytics, the firm behind the controversial report, also has a prominent project team. The project's Principal Investigator is Prof. (Dr.) Manjula Batra, a Senior Professor at The NorthCap University, Gurugram, and former Dean and Head of the Faculty of Law at Jamia Millia Islamia University, New Delhi. Karan Kataria, a Rajya Sabha Research Fellow and Lecturer at Jindal Global Law School, O.P. Jindal Global University, Sonipat, serves as Co-Principal Investigator. Sumit Arora, a Partner at Pvalue Analytics, is the Project Director, with Dr. Seema Tiwari of Pvalue Analytics serving as the Project Manager.
Inter-ministerial team visits disaster-hit areas in Uttarakhand`s Tharali region
The delegation carried out both aerial and ground surveys of the affected areas to gain a comprehensive picture of the situation. The aerial inspection covered villages such as Chepado, Kotdeep, Radibagad, Mopata in Dewal block, and Nandnagar, said the statement from CMO
Uttarakhand CM participates in Prabuddhjan Sammelan
He noted that PM Modi is the first Prime Minister to pledge to make India a developed nation, and structured efforts are being made to realise this vision
SC Bar Association Seeks Flood Relief for Jammu Kashmir, Other States
SRINAGAR: The Supreme Court Bar Association (SCBA) has appealed to its members to contribute towards relief for victims of the recent Monsoon floods that have severely affected Jammu Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, Punjab, and Uttarakhand. In a circular, SCBA Secretary Pragya Baghel has stated that the floods have escalated from a regional to a national disaster, []
Jaipur Diary | Gehlots remark on Raje spices up Raj politics!
The desert states politics is sizzling again, stirred by former CM Ashok Gehlot. On a recent trip to Ajmer, Gehlot casually dropped a bomb by claiming, It would have been fun if Vasundhara Raje had become CM. Gehlot went on to call Raje the natural choice of the BJP and sighed that despite her experience, the saffron party didnt give her the throne again. We are also sad about this, he added with his trademark political poker face. The remark came just days after Rajes meeting with RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat fuelled speculation in power corridors. Political observers are calling Gehlot the magician. 5 Rajasthani students filmi-style exam journey Who says exams are just about pen, paper and nerves? In Uttarakhand this week, they turned into a full-on adventure thriller! Picture this: cloudbursts, heavy rains, mountains cracking and landslides cutting off entire regions. In the middle of this chaos, five determined students from Rajasthan with one thing on their mind - B.Ed. semester exam at Munsiyari. Most people would have packed their bags but not this fab five. Instead of bowing to natures fury, they put on their metaphorical hiking boots, crossed broken trails, climbed over slippery rocks, and made it to the exam centre. Locals say it was nothing short of a Bollywood entry scene. Pilots birthday bash in Mewar sparks buzz Congress leader Sachin Pilots birthday usually makes headlines, but this year the buzz had a twist. For years, Jaipur was the fixed venue of his grand celebrations but this time, Pilot shifted it to Mewars Chittorgarh. The Tonk MLA has a reputation for never contesting the same place twice - until Tonk. He broke that pattern by winning from there again in 2023. But now, by celebrating in Chittor, hes lit a fresh round of political candlesIs Pilot eyeing Mewar next? Or is it just a birthday outing with a dash of symbolism? In the gossip corridors of Rajasthan politics, this birthday has set off a big buzz about clues and calculations. Rajesh Asnani Our correspondent in Jaipur rajesh.asnani@newindianexpress.com
Himalayan bears shed gentle image, turn deadly predators in Uttarakhand
DEHRADUN: Uttarakhands hills are grappling with an alarming threatbears. Traditionally perceived as omnivores, they are exhibiting unprecedented aggression. This behavioural shift has sparked fear among residents and wildlife officials. Hot on the heels of reports of bear terror in Satpuli, Pauri district, a harrowing incident emerged from Rudraprayag, where two women were mauled. While bear encounters are not new in the mountains of Uttarakhand, their escalating intensity and frequency are. The Forest Department officials said, On-site evidence and the circumstances of the attacks suggest the bear has abandoned its inherent nature, transforming into a ferocious, fully carnivorous predator. RK Mishra, PCCF Wildlife, Uttarakhand Forest Department, elaborated on the crisis. The attack on so many cattle by a bear in Satpuli within such a short span is a first. The Forest Department has initiated compensation procedures and deployed a team to capture the bear. If it remains untrapped, orders have been issued to eliminate it. The bears current aggressive display also poses a significant threat to school children and other locals, creating palpable fear in the region. Ranganath Pandey, former Deputy Director of Gangotri National Park and a Wildlife Management gold medallist from WII, shed light on the phenomenon. This period usually precedes the bears hibernation, when they prepare by gathering enough food to sustain them for the next three to four months, Pandey explained. However, the worrying trend is that due to their changing nature, bears are now active and aggressive year-round in the mountains, not just during this crucial pre-hibernation phase. This indicated a deeper, more pervasive change in their natural instincts, he said. Over the past 25 years, bears have claimed 68 lives and severely injured 1,972 individuals in Uttarakhand. Livestock attacks are exponentially higher. Some years have seen more than 100 human attacks, with 120 people injured in 2009 alone.
From omnivore to carnivore? Himalayan bear attacks in Uttarakhand unprecedented, say officials
DEHRADUN: Uttarakhand's serene hills are grappling with an alarming new threat: bears, traditionally perceived as omnivores, are exhibiting unprecedented aggression, mirroring the ferocity of tigers and leopards. This behavioral shift, turning them into dangerous predators, has sparked widespread fear and concern among residents and wildlife officials alike. Once content with a diet of fruits, vegetables and occasional meat, these Himalayan bears are increasingly abandoning their natural preferences. Statistics confirm a worrying transition towards a more carnivorous and aggressive hunting style, a development that poses a novel and perplexing challenge for forest authorities. The tranquil region has been rocked by a series of brutal attacks. Hot on the heels of the bear terror in Satpuli in Pauri district, a harrowing incident emerged from Rudraprayag where two women were viciously mauled, leaving them severely injured and hospitalized. While bear encounters are not entirely new in Uttarakhand's mountains, the escalating intensity and frequency of these attacks, driven by their changing nature, are deeply concerning. The Forest Department itself acknowledges the severity of the situation. Officials admit that the scale of aggression witnessed in Satpuli, particularly against livestock, is unprecedented. On-site evidence and the circumstances of the attacks suggest the bear has abandoned its inherent nature, transforming into a ferocious, fully carnivorous predator, a bewildered wildlife official observed, underscoring the shock among experts. R.K. Mishra, PCCF Wildlife, Uttarakhand Forest Department, elaborated on the crisis. The attack on so many cattle by a bear in Satpuli within such a short span is a first, he stated. Following the incident, the Forest Department has initiated compensation procedures and deployed a team to capture the bear. A cage has been set up, and if it remains untrapped, orders have been issued to eliminate it. The bear's current aggressive display also poses a significant threat to school children and other locals, creating palpable fear in the region. Wildlife experts are particularly concerned about the timing of this behavioral shift. Ranganath Pandey, former Deputy Director of Gangotri National Park and a Wildlife Management gold medallist from WII, shed light on the phenomenon. This period usually precedes the bears' hibernation, when they prepare by gathering enough food to sustain them for the next three to four months, Pandey explained. However, the worrying trend is that due to their changing nature, bears are now active and aggressive year-round in the mountains, not just during this crucial pre-hibernation phase. Pandey emphasized that hibernation is vital for survival during harsh winters, allowing bears to conserve energy by slowing their heart rate and relying on stored fat. Bears typically emerge from their dens after the cold season, resuming normal activities. The current behavioral alterations are being observed during this critical hibernation preparation period. While the nature of the threat may have changed, the danger posed by bears is not new. Over the past 25 years, bears have claimed 68 lives and severely injured 1,972 individuals in Uttarakhand, bringing the total human attacks to over 2,000. Livestock attacks are exponentially higher. Some years have seen more than 100 human attacks, with 120 people injured in 2009 alone.
20,000 RSS volunteers working at grassroots in Bihar to boost NDA's chances in assembly polls
NEW DELHI: With Bihar set for a keenly fought battle at the polls following the Opposition's launch of the 'Voter Adhikar Yatra', the RSS the ideological mentor of the BJP has reportedly intensified its groundwork in the state to smoothen the pitch for the BJP-led NDA. Over 20,000 RSS volunteers are discreetly advancing the organisations mission at the grassroots level by promoting the Sanghs nationalist ideology and highlighting how the government's actions are aligned with the Sanghs vision of the national interest. With Bihar poised for a high-stakes triangular contest in a majority of assembly constituencies after the entry of political strategist-turned-politician Prashant Kishor's newly formed Jan Suraj Party, the role of the Sangh on the ground has become more crucial. In an emerging situation where the Opposition-led by the RJD with the Congress has started creating a fake narrative on SIR and other issues against the government, our duty as citizens is also to dispel these narratives on the ground. The Sangh is dedicated to the nation and the people as the world's largest social organisation, remarked a Sangh volunteer, neither denying the presence of Sangh volunteers on the ground nor admitting it on record. Although the Sangh does not directly engage in political campaigning, its volunteers, who are called Swayamsevaks, continue to actively promote its nationalist and Hindutva ideologies to help create a favourable ground for the saffron party in the electoral arena. As part of its nationwide strategy to mark its centenary celebrations beginning this Vijayadashami which falls on October 2 this year the Sangh is planning outreach efforts across the country, including in the remote areas of Bihar. A series of public interactions have been planned to deepen the Sanghs connection with the masses. Topics such as the success of Operation Sindoor, the SIR whether it is needed in the country or not and other issues designed to bring about social change in the broader interest of the public, will be actively addressed during the centenary year. Sources indicated that Sangh volunteers are already active on the ground in many districts across Bihar, including Siwan, Buxar, Ara, Patna, Muzaffarpur, Gopalganj, Bhagalpur, Kishanganj, Purnia, Sitamarhi, Darbhanga, Begusarai, Rohtas, West Champaran, Vaishali, and others. With the aim of educating and making people aware of national issues and interests, the Sanghs volunteers are reportedly well ahead in their ground-level work in the run-up to the assembly elections. The RSS has also deployed volunteers from other states including Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, Uttarakhand, Jharkhand, and others to assist in groundwork ahead of its centenary functions, which coincide with the Bihar assembly elections scheduled for November this year. Even in Bihars Seemanchal region, which has a significant Muslim population, the Sangh has an organised presence, with volunteers working in a disciplined manner to inspire people towards nationalist ideologies. The entire state of Bihar has been divided into four zones, each managed by experienced Sangh volunteers working in coordination with volunteers from other RSS-inspired social organisations. The Sanghs volunteers, affiliated with several RSS-inspired organisations such as the Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP), Bharatiya Mazdoor Sangh (BMS), Sanskar Bharti, Swadeshi Jagran Manch, and the Rashtriya Shaikshanik Mahasangh are also on the ground ahead of the elections, in the same coordinated manner they had adopted in Haryana and Maharashtra prior to the assembly polls there. A senior source closely associated with the Sangh said the centenary-related activities in Bihar have already commenced, but they are expected to gain momentum after 22 September the conclusion of the inauspicious Pitra-Paksha period, which begins on September 7. Numerous Hindu Sammelans are scheduled to be held in Bihars interior regions as part of the centenary events, coinciding with the growing election fervour in the state.
Nitish Katara murder: SC asks Vikas Yadav to move Delhi HC for further extension of interim bail
NEW DELHI: After granting several interim extensions of bail toconvictVikas Yadav -- undergoing a 25-year jail term in the 2002 Nitish Katara murder case -- the Supreme Court on Monday in its order refused to give any further relief to him. It instead asked him to approach the Delhi High Court for a breather. The order of the top court is a big setback to Yadav, whose interim bail was to expire on September 9, Tuesday. The two-judge bench of the top court, headed by Justice M M Sundresh and Justice Satish Chandra Sharma, in their order on Monday refused to further extend the interim bail of Yadav. During the brief hearing, Yadav's lawyer pleaded to the apex court that instead of sending him to the high court, the top court itself hear his plea for bail extension. The SC refused the prayers and told him to move the Delhi HC for relieffor extension or grant of fresh interim bail in the case. Nitish Katara case: SC extends Yadavs interim bail Earlier on September 1, the Supreme Court Judge Justice N Kotiswar Singh, recused from hearing the matter. The top court has been extending interim bail toYadavon medical grounds. Earlier on April 24, the Supreme Court had granted interim bail till May 8 -- with certain terms and conditions --toYadav, who is serving a 25-year-long jail term in 2002Nitish Kataramurder case, in view of his mothers health condition. The bench of the apex court had earlier directed that his mother shall be admitted to AIIMS (All India Institute of Medical Sciences) immediately for two days for medical examination by a board of doctors to be constituted for examine her health condition. Wedirect that the petitioner's (Vikas Yadav) mother to be examined by AIIMS, Delhi, doctors, the SC had ordered. While granting interim bail earlier to convictYadav, the apex court had directed that he will only meet his ailing mother. The top court in its April 24 order further directed thatYadavshall furnish a bail bond of one lakh rupees with one surety of the like amount and he shall reside only at his residence in Raj Nagar, Ghaziabad. Itasked Uttarakhand and Delhi police to provide security to witnesses and NeelamKatara, keeping in view the fact thatYadavwould be on interim bail till May 8. A trial court in May 2008 heldVikas Yadavguilty of murderingNitish Katarafor being in a relationship with his sister, Bharti. On October 3, 2016, the apex court awarded a 25-yearjail term without any benefit of remission toVikas Yadav, son of controversial Uttar Pradesh politician DPYadav, and his cousin VishalYadavfor their role in the kidnapping and killing of business executiveKatara.
IMD issues red alert for flash floods in Rajasthan, Gujarat
NEW DELHI: The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a red alert, warning of an imminent threat of flash floods likely to occur in Gujarat and Rajasthan over the next two days due to the influence of a depression. Additionally, a fresh western disturbance is expected to bring rainfall to Jammu and Kashmir, Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh, Punjab, as well as western and eastern Uttar Pradesh this week. A well-marked low-pressure area over southern Rajasthan has moved westward and intensified into a depression over southwestern Rajasthan, subsequently affecting northern Gujarat. Due to this, the IMD predicts extremely heavy rainfall, exceeding 300 mm, in these regions over the next two days, which increases the risk of flash floods in several watersheds, particularly in the Banaskantha, Patan, and Saurashtra, and Kutch districts. The risk is also heightened in Barmer and Jalore districts in western Rajasthan, and in Sirohi district in eastern Rajasthan. In its bulletin, the IMD explained that the monsoon trough has shifted south of its normal position. Furthermore, a trough extends from the cyclonic circulation associated with the depression over northern Gujarat and adjacent southwestern Rajasthan to Chhattisgarh. In addition to the extremely heavy rainfall predicted for Gujarat and Rajasthan, the Konkan region is also expected to experience heavy rainfall. Under the influence of western disturbances, moderate rainfall is likely over Jammu Division and Himachal Pradesh on September 7; Uttarakhand on September 7, 8, 12, and 13; and western Uttar Pradesh on September 12 and 13, with eastern Uttar Pradesh seeing rainfall between September 11 and 13. In its advisory for fishermen, the IMD has advised them to avoid venturing into the Arabian Sea between September 7 and September 12. In the Bay of Bengal, the IMD has advised fishermen to refrain from venturing out between September 7 and 9, particularly along the Tamil Nadu coast and in many parts of the southwestern Bay of Bengal. In its agricultural advisory, the IMD has suggested draining excess rainwater from crops and vegetable fields in the affected areas of Gujarat, Rajasthan, and parts of Maharashtra. It also recommended providing mechanical support to horticultural crops and ensuring proper staking for vegetables and young fruit-bearing plants to prevent damage from strong winds. So far, India has received 108.7 per cent of normal rainfall this monsoon season, with only the eastern and northeastern regions experiencing a deficiency of around 18 per cent. The cumulative rainfall recorded between June 1 and September 7 is 813.3 mm, compared to the normal of 748.3 mm.
Uttarakhand CM Dhami thanks Rajasthan CM for extending Rs 5 crore assistance to
Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami expressed gratitude to Rajasthan Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma for extending financial assistance of Rs 5 crore to support relief and rehabilitation efforts in the flood-hit areas of Uttarakhand.
