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.

PM Modi promises Rs 1200 crore aid for Uttarakhand amidst monsoon fury; Opposition calls it 'insufficient'

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 financial assistance of 1,200-crore for disaster-hit areas in Uttarakhand

The Prime Minister met the affected families and announced comprehensive support under the PM CARES for Children scheme to children orphaned due to the recent floods and landslides in the State

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.

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.

Narendra Modi in Varanasi: UP Congress chief Ajay Rai detained; PM to meet Mauritius counterpart today

UP Congress chief Ajay Rai was detained before his planned protest during PM Modi's Varanasi roadshow. PM Modi will meet Mauritius PM Navinchandra Ramgoolam to discuss cooperation across various sectors, reinforcing the 'Enhanced Strategic Partnership' established during Modi's visit to Mauritius. Later, PM Modi will survey flood-affected areas in Uttarakhand and chair a review meeting.

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 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

Uneasy calm prevails in Nepal following violent protests; Armed soldiers patrol streets, guard iconic buildings

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

India-Nepal international border along Uttarakhand sealed following fresh disputes, protests in Nepal

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 steps up vigil amid Nepal crisis; states set up helplines; flights, bus service to Kathmandu cancelled

India has stepped up vigil along the borders while several states have also launched special cells to assist their residents stranded in Nepal as situation remains violatile in the violence-hit country after deadly anti-government protests led by students and youth prompted Prime Minister K P Sharma Oli to resign. The unrest erupted after hundreds of agitators entered Olis office demanding his resignation over the deaths of at least 19 people in police action during protests by Gen-Z youth against corruption and a government ban on social media, which was lifted Monday night. Protesters had also torched the Parliament, the Presidents office, the Prime Ministers residence, government buildings, and offices of political leaders. India on Tuesday had said it is closely monitoring the unfolding developments in Nepal and hoped that all issues will be resolved through peaceful means. Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu said as many as 200 Telugu people are stranded in Nepal. A tourist from Karnataka said many Indians are stranded in Kathmandu. Gauri K, who had gone on a Kailash-Mansarovar expedition with her sister, said she was stuck along with a large number of Indians at a hotel. Today we had a flight, but due to unrest in Kathmandu, all airline companies have cancelled their services. I am now held up in this hotel, Gauri, a Chennai resident working in Bengaluru, told PTI over phone from Kathmandu. According to her, over 150 Indian tourists were staying at the hotel, including about 20 from Bengaluru. Carriers Air India, Air India Express, IndiGo and SpiceJet cancelled their flights to and from Kathmandu on Wednesday as the city's airport remains closed. The Delhi Transport Corporation (DTC) on Wednesday suspended its bus service from Delhi to Kathmandu, PTI reported citing officials. The bus service is being suspended. This service, known as the Delhi-Kathmandu Maitri Bus Sewa, symbolises the strong ties between India and Nepal and remains a popular choice for travellers. We are suspending it as of now and will resume it once the situation normalises, an official told PTI. Refunds will be issued to passengers who had made bookings, another official added. Meanwhile, Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami has asked officials to step up vigilance in areas bordering Nepal. Chairing a high-level meeting with officials through video conferencing on Tuesday night, he told them to keep an eye on the activities of anti-social or mischievous elements in their respective areas by conducting intensive checking. Three districts of Uttarakhand -- Pithoragarh, Champawat and Udham Singh Nagar -- border Nepal. Dhami also asked them to monitor social media so that timely action can be taken on any kind of rumour, misleading information or provocative content. Police in Uttar Pradesh are also on round-the-clock high alert in all districts bordering Nepal. Normalcy returns to Nepal after army steps in, but protesters demand reforms Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel said his government has reached out to the Centre for the safe return of people from the state, including tourists and students. The state administration is in constant contact with the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) regarding the safe return of Gujarati tourists and students caught up in incidents of political instability and violence in Nepal. In this regard, I have given necessary directions to the state's officials, he wrote in a post on X. Several states like Andhra Pradesh, Telangana and Rajasthan have set up special cells to assist their residents stranded in Nepal. The Andhra Pradesh government set up an emergency cell at Andhra Bhavan in New Delhi to provide immediate support and ensure the safety of Telugu citizens stranded in Nepal. Andhra Pradesh Bhavan Commissioner Arja Srikanth said the Embassy of India in Kathmandu in Nepal has assured complete cooperation, and around 30 Telugu people in Bafal, Kathmandu, are currently being assisted with food, accommodation, and medical aid. A few Telugu families staying at a hotel in Kathmandu were shifted to a nearby guest house after reports of agitators gathering outside and threatening arson, he added. The Telangana government on Wednesday also set up a dedicated helpline at Telangana Bhavan in New Delhi to help any people from the state stranded in Nepal. While there have been no reports of Telangana residents being injured or missing, the state government is proactively taking precautionary measures in coordination with the Ministry of External Affairs and the Indian Embassy in Kathmandu to ensure the safety and swift repatriation of its people, a release said. Rajasthan Police has also set up a special cell to assist residents of the state and their families stranded in Nepal. The cell has been established at the office of the Additional Director General (Law and Order) following directions from Director General of Police Rajeev Sharma. Superintendent of Police (SP) Govardhan Lal Sokariya has been appointed in charge of the cell, which will remain operational round-the-clock with designated police officials, police said. Meanwhile, Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah's office said people from the state who are stranded in unrest-hit Nepal are safe. Officials of the state government are in touch with the External Affairs Ministry, and steps are being taken to bring back the Kannadigas safely, a release said.

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.

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

Rs 35 lakh spent on bananas! BCCI gets HC notice for state bodys expenses

The Uttarakhand High Court has directed the BCCI to respond to petitions concerning alleged financial irregularities within the Cricket Association of Uttarakhand. The court is examining claims of misused government funds intended for tournament organization. Allegations include inflated expenses, such as a significant amount spent on bananas. Petitioners also claim that promised facilities for state players were not provided.

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 States Heighten Security As Nepal's Anti-Government Protests Spark Crisis

Nepal border states like Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Bihar, and West Bengal are on high alert, with enhanced security and control rooms.

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.

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.

Bangladeshis Among 14 'babas' Arrested In Uttarakhand For Cheating, Religious Conversions

Uttarakhands 'Operation Kalanemi' has led to 14 arrests, including Bangladeshi nationals, for alleged cheating and religious conversions.

JSW, Vedanta, Adani among companies keen to buy GVK Energy's asset

JSW Energy, Adani Power, and Vedanta are among the companies vying for GVK Energy's 330 MW Alaknanda hydro power project in Uttarakhand, as insolvency proceedings against GVK Energy move forward. Several other firms, including Torrent Power and Jindal Steel & Power, have also expressed interest in acquiring the plant.

Sacred blessings, home delivered: Badrinath and Kedarnath 'Prasad' goes global

DEHRADUN: In a significant move to bring spiritual solace closer to devotees worldwide, the Badrinath-Kedarnath Temple Committee (BKTC) has partnered with India Post to offer speed post delivery of 'Prasad' from the revered Badrinath and Kedarnath shrines. This initiative allows devotees, both within India and abroad, to receive blessings directly at their homes. The decision addresses a long-standing challenge faced by millions of pilgrims. While a large number of devotees visit Uttarakhand's Char Dham every year, the limited six-month operational window for the temple gates also means that many are unable to undertake the arduous journey. Furthermore, various circumstances prevent others from making the pilgrimage altogether. To ensure that the 'Prasad' of Lord Badrinath and Kedarnath reaches devotees in India and abroad, BKTC has signed an agreement with India Post, BKTC Chairman Hemant Dwivedi told TNIE. Under this arrangement, the sacred 'Prasad' from both Badrinath and Kedarnath Dhams will be delivered directly to people's homes via Speed Post. A remarkable aspect of this collaboration is India Post's commitment to deliver the 'Prasad' not only across the country but also to 140 nations globally. The postal department aims for a swift delivery window, promising arrival within a minimum of 24 hours and a maximum of 72 hours for international orders. Representatives from India Post will collect the 'Prasad' packets directly from BKTC's Canal Road office for dispatch. Beyond individual orders, the scheme also caters to devotees who sponsor long-term pujas for Lord Badrinath and Lord Kedarnath. Such patrons will receive 'Prasad' annually for a period of five to ten years, depending on their devotional commitment. Chairman Dwivedi confirmed that domestic delivery of the 'Prasad' has already commenced, with 97 devotees having received their blessings to date. International orders will be processed and dispatched immediately upon receipt, extending the divine reach of the Himalayan shrines across continents.

Uttarakhand CM Dhami Thanks Rajasthan Counterpart For Extending Rs 5 Crore Disaster Relief

Uttarakhand CM Pushkar Singh Dhami thanked Rajasthan CM Bhajanlal Sharma for Rs 5 crore aid and strong support during the crisis.

Agra Flood Alert: Yamuna Reaches Taj Mahal Walls Following Torrential Rains

Yamuna River water reached the Taj Mahals wall after heavy rainfall in Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand, prompting evacuations and flood control measures by local officials.

250 km Himalayan stretch in Uttarkhand is under significant tectonic stress, warn geoscientists

DEHRADUN: A critical 250-kilometre swathe of land in Uttarakhand, stretching from Tanakpur in Kumaon to Dehradun, is under significant tectonic stress, facing the risk of a major earthquake with a magnitude potentially ranging between 7.0 and 8.0, warn leading geoscientists. This alert highlights a growing concern over the progressive build-up of seismic energy in one of the most active segments of the Himalayan collision zone. Dr. Sushil Kumar, a former Senior Scientist specialising in Geophysics at the Wadia Institute of Himalayan Geology, underscored the escalating seismic risk in the region. He pointed out that Uttarakhand is largely situated across Seismic Zones IV and V, classified by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) as areas of high to very high seismic hazard, with Uttarkashi specifically falling into the highly vulnerable Zone V. The absence of a major earthquake in this area over several decades has resulted in growing concern over the progressive build-up of underground energy, Dr. Kumar told TNIE. This significantly increases the probability of a large seismic rupture in the near future. Geophysical studies attribute this heightened seismicity to the relentless convergence of the Indian Plate towards the Eurasian Plate, moving at approximately 50 to 52 millimetres per year. This continuous collision leads to substantial crustal deformation, the accumulation of compressional stress, and frictional locking along major thrust fault systems like the Main Central Thrust (MCT) and the Main Boundary Thrust (MBT). Dr. Kumar explained that the accumulated tectonic stress, if exceeds the frictional resistance along fault planes, can trigger a sudden and powerful rupture event, culminating in a major earthquake. The region's history includes significant seismic events, such as the Chamoli earthquake (1999, Mw 6.6) and the Uttarkashi earthquake (1991, Mw 6.8), serving as stark reminders of its seismic potential. Further, detailed geophysical surveys and seismic monitoring have revealed pronounced thrust fault activity in areas such as Mohand in Dehradun and area near Shanshahi Ashram. These locations exhibit repeated microseismicity, localised ground deformation, and crustal uplift, meticulously observed through GPS and InSAR (Interferometric Synthetic Aperture Radar) measurements. These findings strongly indicate persistent tectonic loading and active crustal shortening across this segment of the Himalayas. Given the complex geological structure, high rate of plate convergence, and a history of significant seismic events, geoscientists are strongly advocating for intensified seismic monitoring, precise fault mapping, probabilistic seismic hazard assessment, and the urgent implementation of robust early warning systems. These measures are deemed crucial for enhancing earthquake preparedness and developing effective mitigation strategies to safeguard the vulnerable population residing in this high-risk zone.

PM Modi meets President Murmu ahead of V-P poll

NEW DELHI: Three days before the upcoming Vice-Presidential election, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday called on President Droupadi Murmu at the Rashtrapati Bhawan. The meeting also took place after the PM responded to a post by US President Donald Trump on Friday. The V-P election is scheduled for September 9, in which NDA candidate CP Radhakrishnan will be contesting against Opposition nominee B Sudershan Reddy . No official details of the PMs meet with President have been released. But sources said the visit was in keeping with the tradition of the PM calling on the President upon returning from any foreign visit. Despite this, the meeting has triggered speculation that it may also be linked to the PMs proposed visit to Manipur this month. Strife-torn Manipur is currently under Presidents Rule, and it is expected that the Centre may consider lifting it following the PMs visit. A discussion might have already taken place during the PMs visit to the President House, BJP sources said. M+odis visit to the President also came ahead of a tentative plan to tour recently flood-affected states of Punjab, Haryana, Uttarakhand, J&K, and others, in order to review and assess flood damage. A day earlier, President Murmu had expressed serious concern over the intensifying flood situation. She extended solidarity with those affected and praised the efforts of officials engaged in relief and rescue operations. The flood situation in Punjab remains severe, having claimed several lives.

Paav Nritya: Re-enacting the Mahabharata in Garhwal

Kiran Badoni Uttarakhands culture is incomplete without its vibrant traditions of folk music, dance, and theatre, which vividly reflect the regions deep-rooted values, mythology, and communal memory. Among these rich expressions, Pav Nritya (also known as Pav Ll) stands out as one of the most spiritually and culturally significant folk performances, particularly in the Garhwal Himalayas. This ritualistic dance-drama enacts episodes from the Mahbhrata not merely as a form of entertainment, but as a sacred communal event, interweaving devotion, identity, [] The post Paav Nritya: Re-enacting the Mahabharata in Garhwal appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Fresh cloudburst hits Naugaon in Uttarkashi, rescue operations underway

UTTARKASHI: A cloudburst struck Yamuna Valley in Uttarakhand's Uttarkashi district on Saturday, causing heavy damage in Naugaon area where debris buried a residential house and muddy waters of a stream entered more than half a dozen homes. The cloudburst occurred at Syori Phal Patti in Yamuna Valley in the evening and sludge from a flooded stream rushed downwards, inflicting damage in low-lying areas, District Magistrate Prashant Arya said. The district administration, and the state and national disaster response forces have launched a rescue operation in the affected area. The affected people are being taken to safer places, Arya said. There has been no report of any loss of life so far, he added. When the cloudburst occured, several people had already vacated their homes anticipating danger due to heavy rains in the area. A mixer machine and some two-wheelers were said to have been swept away by the swollen Devalsari stream. A car was also buried under the debris. A mudslide caused chaos in the Naugaon market area where people scampered for safety. It also led to the closure of Delhi-Yamunotri highway, causing traffic congestion. The State Disaster Response Force team led by Barkot Inspector Rajesh Joshi immediately reached the spot and carried out rescue and relief work. They evacuated the locals to safe places. In a social media post, Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami said, On receiving information about the damage caused by heavy rains in Naugaon area of Uttarkashi district, I immediately spoke to the district magistrate and directed him to conduct rescue and relief operations on a war-footing. I have also clearly instructed to immediately take the affected people to safe places and ensure that there is no delay in providing all possible help. I pray to God for everyone's safety, Dhami wrote. , Pushkar Singh Dhami (@pushkardhami) September 6, 2025

Another Cloudburst Hits Uttarakhand's Uttarkashi, Muddy Water Enters Houses | Video

A cloudburst in Uttarkashi's Naugaon damaged homes. Rescue teams led by DM Prashant Arya and SDRF evacuated locals. Pushkar Singh Dhami ordered swift relief operations.

Another cloudburst strikes Uttarkashi, Uttarakhand CM Dhami orders relief ops; WATCH video

Officials said no casualties had been reported, though several houses and vehicles were damaged due to the floods. The Delhi-Yamunotri highway was blocked after the incident, leading to traffic congestion, PTI reported. Read on to know more on this and what causes a cloudburst.

IIT study warns of earthquake-induced landslides in four Uttarakhand districts, Rudraprayag most vulnerable

DEHRADUN: Four mountainous districts in Uttarakhand are facing a growing threat from earthquake-induced landslides, with Rudraprayag identified as the most vulnerable, according to a new study. Geoscientists warn that a 250-kilometre stretch of land in the state is under severe tectonic pressure, capable of triggering a massive earthquake of magnitude 7 to 8. The district-wise research, conducted by IIT Roorkee's Centre of Excellence in Disaster Management and Humanitarian Assistance, has been published in an international journal. The report, authored by Akshat Vashishtha, Shivani Joshi, and S.K. Siva Subramanian, highlights the extreme seismic sensitivity of the Himalayan region. While landslides are common in the area, the study warns that future earthquake-induced landslides could pose an even greater danger. The Himalayan region is highly susceptible to seismic activities, leading to frequent landslide incidents. Our findings indicate that future seismically triggered landslides could escalate into a much larger threat for Uttarakhand, one of the researchers said. For the first time, the study has carried out district-level zoning of earthquake-induced landslide risks in Uttarakhand. It analysed potential hazards under different seismic intensity scenarios and earthquake recurrence periods, consistently identifying Rudraprayag as the most susceptible district. Pithoragarh, Chamoli, and Uttarkashi were also found to be highly prone to major landslides triggered by seismic activity. The detailed assessment provides vital data for disaster management agencies to plan targeted mitigation strategies and enhance regional resilience. Geoscientists have also pointed out that a 250-kilometre stretch in Uttarakhand is under immense tectonic pressure. This zone, extending from Tanakpur in Kumaon to Dehradun, lies in one of the most earthquake-prone parts of the Himalayas and is currently in a state of contraction, causing deep underground stress. Uttarkashi, for instance, falls within seismic zone 5, making it highly vulnerable to earthquakes, Dr. Sushil Kumar, senior seismologist at the Wadia Institute of Himalayan Geology, told the TNIE . He noted that the region has not experienced a major earthquake in a long time, raising fears about accumulating underground energy. The continuous movement of the Indian and Eurasian tectonic plates is causing this stress, with the Indian plate moving at an average of 5052 millimetres per year. This friction leads to micro-earthquakes at depths of 1020 kilometres. Dr. Kumar explained that when stress builds on a larger scale, it culminates in a major rupture, as seen in past earthquakes in Chamoli and Uttarkashi. He also pointed to significant thrust activity in the Mohand area of Dehradun and near the Shanshahi Ashram, which are areas of heightened geological stress.

Multi-state fake drug racket busted in Uttarakhand, 12 including mastermind arrested

DEHRADUN: The Uttarakhand Special Task Force (STF) has dismantled a major network involved in the manufacturing and distribution of counterfeit branded medicines, arresting four company owners and plant heads in a significant breakthrough. With these arrests, the STF has now taken the total number of accused to 12, including the alleged mastermind behind the operation. The most recent arrests, a husband-and-wife duo, were made on Friday in Zirakpur, Punjab. STF Senior Superintendent of Police Navneet Singh Bhullar confirmed the arrests, stating, We had been receiving continuous complaints about the exact replication of life-saving medicines and their illicit sale in the market. The use of these fake drugs not only posed severe health risks to the public but also caused substantial revenue losses to the government. He added that Director General of Police Deepam Seth had directed the STF to take stringent action to curb the menace. We immediately instructed our team to work on a high priority to identify this fake medicine syndicate and ensure decisive action, SSP Bhullar said. The investigation gathered pace on June 1, when the STF apprehended Santosh Kumar, who was found with counterfeit wrappers, outer boxes, labels, and QR codes of reputed pharmaceutical companies. A case was registered at Selaqui Police Station in Dehradun, and the probe was later transferred to the STF. Santosh Kumars arrest led to several other key arrests, including Naveen Bansal, Aditya Kala, Devi Dayal Gupta, Pankaj Sharma, and Vijay Kumar Pandey. The inquiry has revealed that Keron Life Science Pvt Ltd, BLBK Pharmaceutical Pvt Ltd, Oxi Pharma Pvt Ltd, and Zentic Pharmaceuticals Pvt Ltd were manufacturing large quantities of drugs without proper licenses. These medicines were sold to Naveen Bansals fictitious company, Beechem Biotech, located in Bhiwadi, Rajasthan. STF also found that to falsely indicate government supply, the MRP 00.00 was marked on the drug bills. Naveen Bansal then re-packaged these unlabelled drugs under branded company names and distributed them in the open market. Further investigation revealed that illegal drug purchases and supplies had taken place multiple times during the financial years 2023-24 and 2024-25, showing the large scale of the criminal operation.

Army drones detect two new lakes near Telgad after Harsil landslide, heightening flood concerns

DEHRADUN: Two nascent lakes have formed near the mouth of Telgad in Harsil, a sensitive mountainous region of Uttarakhand currently grappling with monsoon-induced natural disasters. The discovery, made through high-tech drone imagery captured by the Indian Army on Friday, has raised concerns about potential future hazards. While these newly formed water bodies are not yet significant in size, authorities remain wary of their potential to pose future risks. The thunderous roar of Thursday's landslide had sent shockwaves of panic through Harsil and nearby areas, with a massive influx of debris and boulders significantly choking the flow of the Telgad stream. Initial attempts by State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) teams to reach the landslide site were thwarted by unfavourable weather conditions. On Friday, as the weather showed slight improvement, the SDRF again attempted a drone reconnaissance, but persistent strong winds prevented their drone from taking flight. It was then, stepping in due to security concerns, that the Indian Army deployed its advanced high-tech drones, capturing crucial images and videos that clearly depicted the two small lakes at the landslide location. SDRF Inspector Jagdamba Prasad confirmed the development to this newspaper, stating, The Army's drone footage clearly shows two lakes near the Telgad landslide site, though they are currently not of significant size. He added that the flow of Telgad remains calm for now. SDRF teams are actively trying to reach the location for a comprehensive ground assessment of the situation. We have also requested additional high-tech drone support from the administration for this purpose, Prasad said. Barely a month ago, on 5 August, the Telgad stream had swelled dramatically, deluging the area with approximately 16 feet of debris. That incident had a devastating impact, leaving around nine army personnel missing and causing extensive damage to a military camp. The body of one missing soldier has since been recovered. Previously, debris from Telgad had halted the flow of the Bhagirathi River, consequently forming a lake approximately 1 to 1.5 kilometres long. This temporary lake had submerged the Harsil helipad and about 100 metres of the Gangotri Highway. While the Gangotri Highway has since been restored at Dabri and Songad, heavy machinery has been deployed, and clearing operations are ongoing to open the lake formed in the Bhagirathi River.

From Urvashi Rautela to Anushka Sharma: 5 Bollywood beauties from Uttarakhand who made it big in industry

Uttarakhand, the land of natural beauty, has also given Bollywood some of its most glamorous actresses. From Urvashi Rautela and Anushka Sharma to Huma Qureshi, here are five stunning divas with roots in Uttarakhand who have made their mark in Indian cinema.

Char Dham Yatra resumes after rain halt in Uttarakhand

The Chardham Yatra has resumed after a five-day suspension due to severe weather. The pilgrimage to Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath was halted from September 1st to 5th. Meanwhile, the Uttarakhand government is seeking Rs 5,702.15 crore in central assistance to repair monsoon damage and prevent future infrastructure failures.

Lessons engraved in crisis, the Jammu Floods

Dr Neeraj Sharma While the horrific images of the Dharali devastation in Uttarakhand still lingered, Chasoti in Paddar was severely engulfed, and then Kathua, Doda, Reasi, Ramban and many other places as raging waters swept across the Jammu division and entire Himalayas, leaving hardly any mountain state untouched by the ferocious wrath of an angered nature.Yet, what followed was even more catastrophic, the floods of August 26, when heavy clouds descended with unrelenting force, leaving onlookers helpless as the entire [] The post Lessons engraved in crisis, the Jammu Floods appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

PM Modi likely to visit flood-hit states for review and relief assessment

NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi is likely to visit the flood-affected states that have recently suffered severe damage due to deluge and flash floods, resulting in significant loss of standing crops, human lives, and property. A senior government source on Friday hinted that a plan is being prepared for PM Modis visit to these states, where he will review the situation alongside the concerned state governments. The floods have wreaked havoc on human lives, livestock, and infrastructure following cloudbursts and flash floods caused by extremely heavy rainfall in Jammu & Kashmir, Punjab, Himachal Pradesh, Assam, Uttarakhand, and several other states. Among the worst-affected states, Jammu & Kashmir and Himachal Pradesh have borne the brunt of the disaster. Sources further added that the Prime Minister, accompanied by the Chief Ministers of the concerned states, may also conduct an aerial survey of the flood-hit areas. Punjab, which is governed by the Aam Aadmi Party, is the worst-affected state , with more than 1,900 villages severely impacted and over 300,000 people displaced due to flooding. Haryana has also experienced severe flood conditions, similar to other parts of Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Andhra Pradesh, Odisha, and various northern states of India. Landslides and the collapse of houses in the hilly areas of Himachal Pradesh, Jammu & Kashmir, and other states, triggered by cloudbursts and persistent heavy rainfall have claimed numerous lives. The Prime Ministers Office will soon finalise the date for the PMs proposed visits to the flood-affected states to conduct a comprehensive review.

Teen from Navi Mumbai wins triple gold at Acrobatic Gymnastics National Championship in Uttarakhand

PM Modi To Visit Flood-Hit States, Review Relief Efforts: Sources

PM Modi will visit Jammu and Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, Punjab and Uttarakhand and review relief operations after devastating floods and landslides.

IFS officer in Uttarakhand sues Cabinet Secretary over false affidavit, alleges defamation

DEHRADUN: In a dramatic escalation of a long-running bureaucratic dispute, Sanjeev Chaturvedi, the prominent Uttarakhand cadre Indian Forest Service (IFS) officer and Magsaysay Award laureate, has initiated criminal proceedings against Indias top bureaucrat, Cabinet Secretary T.V. Somanathan. Chaturvedi has accused Somanathan of filing a false affidavit and making defamatory remarks in court, seeking stringent criminal action from the Nainital High Court. The High Court is scheduled to hear the petition on September 16. This legal battle stems from a controversy dating back to Chaturvedis tenure as Chief Vigilance Officer (CVO) at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), Delhi. During his time there, he initiated several high-profile corruption investigations, which later became the subject of various legal challenges. The Central Administrative Tribunal (CAT), in February 2023, ordered the production of documents related to these AIIMS corruption cases. Following alleged non-compliance, CAT initiated contempt proceedings in May 2023 against both the Cabinet Secretary and the Union Health Secretary. It is against this backdrop of alleged non-adherence to tribunal orders that the new legal challenge has emerged in the High Court. Chaturvedi has not only termed the writ petition filed by the Cabinet Secretary as baseless but also strongly objected to the allegations made within it. To substantiate his claims, he presented to the court a 2014 file noting from then Union Health Secretary Love Verma and Health Ministry CVO Vishwas Mehta. The document reportedly praised Chaturvedis integrity and dedication as outstanding. Speaking on the matter, Chaturvedi said, It is deeply unfortunate that the petition filed by the countrys Cabinet Secretary contains baseless and defamatory allegations. He added, The anti-corruption actions taken during my tenure were consistently affirmed in writing by top officials of the Health Ministry, confirming the integrity and merit of my work. The case underscores the ongoing friction between a decorated officer known for his anti-corruption stance and the highest levels of the bureaucracy, setting the stage for a closely watched legal battle in the coming weeks.

Uttarakhand grapples with double crisis: Floods kill 80, 90 missing; State fights epidemic threat

DEHRADUN: As Uttarakhand struggles to recover from the devastating impact of incessant August rains, a new and alarming threat of widespread epidemics looms large over the disaster-stricken state. Heavy downpours have wreaked havoc across mountainous regions like Uttarkashi, Chamoli, and Pauri, while the plains grapple with severe waterlogging, leading to significant loss of life and property. Authorities are now racing against time to prevent a health crisis amidst widespread contamination and accumulated debris. The state's challenging geographical conditions frequently lead to disaster-like situations, but this year's monsoon has been particularly brutal. The extensive waterlogging and accumulation of filth in affected areas have created fertile ground for the spread of infectious diseases. According to the State Emergency Operations Centre, natural calamities have claimed 80 lives since April 1, with 114 injured and 95 still missing. The devastation extends to livestock, with 88 large and 1,481 small animals perished. Property damage is extensive, with 1,828 houses partially damaged, 71 severely affected, and 229 completely destroyed. The Uttarakhand government has acknowledged the grave health risks posed by unsanitary conditions. Recognizing the high potential for infections and disease outbreaks, the health department has been put on high alert. Dr. Ravindra Rana of the Secretariat Hospital warned of diseases like typhoid, cholera, and jaundice spreading in the affected areas. Residents in disaster-hit and waterlogged zones must exercise extreme caution, Dr. Rana advised. It's crucial to prevent outside contamination from entering homes, keep children indoors, and maintain strict hygiene. Consuming healthy food and clean drinking water is paramount to prevent infections. Speaking to TNIE , Uttarakhand's Health Minister Dr. Dhan Singh Rawat confirmed the governments proactive measures. Health camps have already been set up in 65 out of the 78 disaster-affected village councils. The remaining will be covered within the next week, he stated. Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami assured the public of continuous monitoring. We are continuously reviewing the disaster situation and implementing necessary precautions, CM Dhami said. The health department and other agencies are taking essential steps to address the potential for epidemics in flood-affected and waterlogged areas. The coming days will be critical as the state battles both the physical aftermath of the floods and the urgent need to safeguard public health.

Delhi Police arrests two for aiding Rs 6.4 crore stock market fraud

The accused, Mohammad Asim Ali Khan from Uttarakhand and Rushikesh Jaywant Kamble from Maharashtra, acted as professional account providers for organised cybercrime networks that duped investors through fake IPO funding and high-return stock market investment schemes, he said

Dr Jitendra Hails IIT Roorkee As Asias Oldest Engineering College, Role Model

ROORKEE (UTTARAKHAND), Sept 5: In a highly scholarly Convocation address, Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science and Technology; Earth Sciences and Minister of State for PMO, Department of Atomic Energy, Department of Space, Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions, Dr. Jitendra Singh today hailed IIT Roorkee, founded in 1847, as Asias first Engineering College and a role model that combines research, innovation and societal engagement. Even in the NIF rating released yesterday, the institution , which was earlier known [] The post Dr Jitendra Hails IIT Roorkee As Asias Oldest Engineering College, Role Model appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

SC seeks Centre, states response on J&K, Himachal, Uttarakhand floods; flags illegal tree felling

The Supreme Court has sought responses from the Centre, NDMA, and affected state governments regarding the devastating landslides and floods in J&K, Himachal Pradesh, and Uttarakhand. The court also flagged reports of wooden logs floating in floodwaters in Himachal Pradesh, raising concerns about illegal tree felling.

SC concerned over illegal tree felling in Himalayas

Issues notice to J&K, other states over deforestation issue New Delhi, Sep 4:The Supreme Court on Thursday raised concern over reports of timber logs floating in floodwaters across Himachal Pradesh, observing that illegal tree felling appeared rampant in the Himalayan region. TheApex Courthas issued notices not only to Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand but also to [] The post SC concerned over illegal tree felling in Himalayas appeared first on Northlines .

SC Flags Concern Over Illegal Tree Felling in Himalayas

SRINAGAR: The Supreme Court on Thursday raised concern over reports of timber logs floating in floodwaters across Himachal Pradesh, observing that illegal tree felling appeared rampant in the Himalayan region. The Apex Court has issued notices not only to Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand but also to the Jammu and Kashmir government, underlining that fragile mountain []

IMD to install four more weather radars in J&K to boost disaster forecasting, early warnings

NEW DELHI: In view of the unprecedented natural disasters in Jammu and Kashmir (J&K), the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has decided to install four additional radars under Mission Mausam to improve weather forecasts and early warnings. With three radars already operational, the total will now rise to seven, giving J&K one of the densest radar networks in the country. The enhanced system will allow round-the-clock monitoring of weather patterns and timely forecasts to minimise losses through early warnings and better preparedness. Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science & Technology and Earth Sciences, Dr. Jitendra Singh, said the Ministry of Earth Sciences and IMD are providing dedicated district-wise forecasts for weather-affected regions in North India, including Jammu and Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, and Punjab. During a high-level review meeting with the Divisional Commissioner of Jammu and the Deputy Commissioners of Doda, Kishtwar, Ramban, Kathua, and Udhampur, Singh gave instructions via video conference to assess relief and rehabilitation measures in the wake of unprecedented rainfall, cloudbursts, and flash floods. The minister, who also represents Udhampur in the Lok Sabha, stressed the importance of ensuring potable drinking water through the supply of water filters and medical kits to prevent outbreaks of waterborne diseases. He said two additional consignments of ration kits and state-of-the-art water filters would be made available by tomorrow, while food packets and essential medicines are being dispatched from his MP funds, supplementing government relief measures. Singh further informed that Union Home Minister Amit Shah has set up an inter-ministerial committee to assess damages and ensure coordinated assistance, which will also visit Kathua today. He assured that no effort will be spared to provide relief and rehabilitation to affected people in all five districts. The Centre and state, he added, are working in close coordination, and the local administrations deserve appreciation for their courage and commitment in facing the crisis.

Powerful rain and floods devastate Uttarakhand, Himachal, J-K and Punjab as experts blame climate change

NEW DELHI, September 4, 2025 (AP) Relentless monsoon rains have unleashed some of the worst flooding and landslides in decades across northern India, killing at least 90 people and displacing hundreds of thousands in recent weeks, government officials said. Indias Himalayan Mountain states and territories such as Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh, Jammu and Kashmir, as well as Punjab state, are among the worst affected. Indias capital city, New Delhi, and nearby regions have been hit by rising rivers and heavy rain. Thousands have been moved to safer ground as city officials said the Yamuna River in the city has breached

Supreme Court addresses concern over flash floods and landslides, notice issued

The Supreme Court raised serious concern over devastating floods in Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Jammu and Kashmir, and Punjab, noting illegal felling of trees as a key cause. The bench of CJI BR Gavai and Justice K Vinod Chandran issued notices to the Centre, NDMA, NHAI, and state governments, stressing the urgent need for balanced development.

Floods: Supreme Court Asks For Replies From Centre, NDMA, Affected States

New Delhi, Sep 4: Considering the unprecedented landslides and flooding in states like Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand, the Supreme Court on Thursday sought the stand of the Centre, National Disaster Management Authority and others, and observed illegal felling of trees led to the disasters. Observing a balance ought to be struck between development and environment, a bench of Chief Justice B R Gavai and Justice K Vinod Chandran also issued notices to the Union Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate [] The post Floods: Supreme Court Asks For Replies From Centre, NDMA, Affected States appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

SC seeks Centre, States response on illegal tree felling linked to floods, landslides

New Delhi, Sept 4: The Supreme Court on Thursday sought responses from the Centre and flood-hit states including Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Jammu and Kashmir, and Punjab on allegations that illegal felling of trees has contributed to recent landslides and flash floods. A bench of Chief Justice BR Gavai and Justice K Vinod Chandran, while hearing [] The post SC seeks Centre, States response on illegal tree felling linked to floods, landslides appeared first on Northlines .

MoEFCC seeks four weeks' time to review responses of Uttarakhand, Himachal on protection of Himalayas

The Union Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) has requested a four-week extension from the National Green Tribunal (NGT) to review the responses of Uttarakhand and Himachal Pradesh regarding measures to declare the Higher Himalayas as an eco-sensitive zone and ensure its protection. On December 18, 2023, the NGT directed the formation of a Joint Committee to recommend measures for declaring the Higher Himalayas as an eco-sensitive zone. The Committee submitted its final report on July 11, 2024, which recommended several measures, including the establishment of early warning systems, strict regulation of construction, promotion of sustainable tourism, afforestation, a ban on single-use plastics, and the involvement of local communities. After the Committee's report, both Uttarakhand and Himachal Pradesh submitted their responses to the NGT, detailing the steps they have already taken in line with the recommendations. The MoEFCC has requested four weeks to review these responses. The matter is scheduled for the next hearing on November 28, 2025. The Uttarakhand government outlined the measures it has already implemented. This includes commissioning a carrying capacity study for tourists at Char Dham, which has been awarded to the Wildlife Institute of India, and preparing a master plan for an effective drainage system. Besides, the state has established the Uttarakhand Landslide Mitigation and Management Centre to manage and reduce landslides effectively. Training programs are also being conducted for local residents on environmental conservation, specifically concerning wildlife (flora and fauna). Himalayas facing the heat with higher temperature prediction, floods & more However, the Uttarakhand government did not provide information regarding the afforestation of degraded slopes or the planting of broad-leaved native trees, such as oaks. In its response, the Himachal Pradesh government noted that it has installed three Doppler radars in Shimla (Kufri), Chamba (Jot), and Mandi (Murari Devi) to predict early warnings for abnormal weather conditions, river flow, and snow melting, which are communicated downstream for better management. Furthermore, the government has set up 48 Automatic Weather Stations (AWS), Automatic Rain Gauges (ARG), and Automatic Snow Gauges (ASG) in Community Development Blocks currently lacking these facilities. Additionally, the Himachal Pradesh government stated that it has adopted a policy that allows the construction of hydroelectric projects in the state, following the provisions laid out in this policy. Construction begins only after obtaining technical concurrence for the Detailed Project Report (DPR) from the competent authority. This provision covers all aspects related to geological and geotechnical investigations. Environment Impact Assessments (EIA) are conducted by project developers to implement necessary measures for mitigating any adverse environmental impacts.

SC says illegal felling of trees led to 'unprecedented' floods, landslides; seeks response from Centre, affected states

NEW DELHI: Considering the unprecedented landslides and flooding in states like Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand, the Supreme Court on Thursday sought the stand of the Centre, National Disaster Management Authority and others, and observed illegal felling of trees led to the disasters. Observing a balance ought to be struck between development and environment, a bench of Chief Justice B R Gavai and Justice K Vinod Chandran also issued notices to the Union Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, the National Highway Authorities of India (NHAI) as well as the governments of Himachal Pradesh , Uttarakhand , Jammu and Kashmir and Punjab. We have seen unprecedented landslides and floods in Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh and Punjab. From the media reports it is noticed that in the flood a huge number of wood was flowing along. Prima facie it appears that there has been illegal felling of trees. Thus issue notice to respondents, the CJI said. The bench allowed advocates Akash Vashishtha and Shubham Upadhyay, appearing for petitioner Anamika Rana, to serve the notice and the copy of the petition at the central agency. The CJI during the hearing asked Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, who was present in the court in connection with another case, to take note of the grim situation and ensure remedial steps. Please take note of this. It appears to be a serious issue. A large number of wooden logs are seen to be falling around... it shows illegal felling of trees. We have seen pictures of Punjab. Entire fields and crops are inundated. Development has to be balanced with mitigating measures, the CJI said. We have interfered with nature so much... that nature is giving back now. I will speak to the secretary of the environment ministry today itself and he will speak to the chief secretaries (of the states), the law officer said. Such situations cannot be permitted, Mehta added. One dead, 5 missing as landslides triggered by heavy rains wreak havoc in Himachal The petitioner's counsel said there instances of people being trapped in tunnels and on the verge of ear death situations. The CJI said he noticed the seriousness of the issue and posted the matter after two weeks. The plea, filed through lawyer Akash Vashishta, has sought framing of action plan and SIT inquiry into the reasons of landslides and flash floods besides the measures to ensure that such disasters do not recur. The Central and state governments, in spite of having dedicated Disaster Authorities, have no plan in place to prevent or mitigate the losses due to these disasters whose frequency has increased alarmingly of late, it said. It said the ministries of Environment, Forests and Climate Change and Jal Shakti have failed in their duty to protect the pristine Ecology and the Rivers of the Himalayan region from degradation. The Petition is being filed bona fide in the larger public interest to ensure and to uphold the Constitutional Right to Life (Article 21) and access to justice of the residents of these Himalayan States, it said. Seeking appropriate directions, the plea sought constituting an independent expert committee to carry out geological, geo-technical or environmental/ecological investigation into all road/highway projects where landslides have occurred and assess the causes of floods and flash floods in the rivers, rivulets, streams, water courses, channels in the Himalayan states, particularly Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand besides Jammu and Kashmir. The plea also sought a direction to the Centre and others to ensure emergency relief, rescue, safety, first-aid for affected citizens. Punjab floods: Army evacuates pregnant woman, elderly patient from rain-affected regions

Illegal felling of trees likely led to floods, devastation in Himachal, J&K and Punjab, says Supreme Court

The Supreme Court has taken cognizance of the devastating floods in Himalayan states. Notices are issued to the central government and states like Himachal Pradesh, Jammu and Kashmir, Uttarakhand, and Punjab. The court is addressing a plea about illegal tree felling. This is believed to be a major cause of the recent floods. The court directs immediate remedial actions.

SC Seeks Centre, States Response on Tree Felling Linked to Himachal, Uttarakhand Floods

Bench led by CJI B R Gavai notes illegal logging as cause of unprecedented landslides, issues notices to Centre, NDMA, NHAI and state governments

We will be left with no forests, SC on floods, illegally felled Himalayan trees flowing in swollen rivers

The court on Thursday voiced a deep anguish about floods in the States of Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh, Jammu and Kashmir and Punjab

Faithful flock to Uttarakhands Naina Devi temple after animal sacrifice nod

New SoP for tunnel alignment requires evaluation of three alternatives to enhance safety and planning

NEW DELHI: In the wake of recent tunnel collapse incidents, such as the Silkyara tunnel collapse in Uttarakhand, the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways has developed a Standard Operating Procedure (SoP) for tunnel alignment studies and approval on national highways. The new SoP mandates that at least three alternative alignments, such as the shortest path, geologically or geotechnically favourable routes, and options with minimal social or cost impact must be evaluated before finalising the alignment. The guidelines caution against routes passing through eco-sensitive zones, heritage sites, fault lines, steep slopes, or dense urban settlements. They prescribe a step-by-step methodology: identifying preliminary corridors, reviewing past investigation reports, collecting high-resolution baseline data across multiple disciplines, developing technically viable alignments, consulting stakeholders, and comparing alternatives to ensure robust planning. The SoP further states that the portal location should be optimised for access, gradient, drainage, and minimal land acquisition. For tunnel portals, the document stresses optimisation for access, gradient, drainage, and land acquisition, while also factoring in slope stability, drainage channels, and land cover. The under-construction Silkyara BendBarkot tunnel in Uttarakhand collapsed in November 2023, trapping 41 workers for 16 days. In May, to enhance tunnel safety across India, the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) initiated the development of national guidelines for tunnel construction and operation. The tragic Silkyara incident highlighted gaps in Indias tunnel safety mechanisms, particularly the lack of dedicated codes and disaster response protocols. Currently, tunnel construction relies on general engineering standards and international practices, which do not comprehensively address disaster preparedness and rescue operations specific to tunnels. According to officials, tunnel alignments longer than 1.5 km will henceforth be finalised in line with the new SoP and submitted to the Alignment Approval Committee for sanction after review. The document also highlights the use of Geographic Information System (GIS) and Digital Elevation Model (DEM) tools for mapping elevation profiles, and mandates the preparation of a Geotechnical Investigation. Planning tunnel infrastructure is inherently complex and multi-disciplinary. It requires harmonisation of topographical, geological, geotechnical, geophysical, hydrological, environmental, social, and financial dimensions. Without rigorous, standardised studies and data-backed alignment evaluations, tunnel projects may face delays, cost escalations, and stakeholder conflicts, the SoP reads. It has also been mandated to develop a Geotechnical Investigation Interpretative Report (GIR), synthesising and interpreting the geological, geotechnical, and hydrogeological data collected during field investigations.

Elephant herd rallies to rescue calf from raging river in Uttarakhand

DEHRADUN: In an extraordinary display of community solidarity, a herd of elephants in Uttarakhand's Pauri district on Tuesday evening staged a dramatic, coordinated rescue to save a young calf swept away by the fierce currents of the Khoh River. The astonishing event, witnessed by awe-struck locals, underscored the deep bonds and ancient social structures within elephant communities, often contrasting with the divisions seen in human society. The incident unfolded in the Dugadda Range of the Lansdowne Forest Division. As dusk settled, a herd of elephants ventured into the Khoh River near the Fifth Mile mark to quench their thirst. Amidst the strong flow, a young calf lost its footing and was swiftly carried downstream by the raging torrent. Realising its life was in peril, the frightened calf let out a frantic distress call. Within moments, the powerful cry mobilised a response that left onlookers spellbound. An initial group of seven to eight elephants immediately thundered towards the river, trumpeting loudly to signal the emergency to their companions. It was incredible to watch, recounted a local resident who allegedly filmed parts of the rescue on his mobile phone. One moment there were a few elephants, and the next, the entire area was filled with their calls. The urgent signals quickly transformed the initial group into a formidable force of 25 to 30 elephants. Without hesitation, the expanded herd plunged into the churning waters, coordinating their movements with remarkable precision. After a tense few moments, their collective strength and determination paid off, and they successfully pulled the struggling calf from the powerful current, guiding it to safety. Umesh Joshi, Ranger of Dugadda, confirmed the details to TNIE . Around 6:30 pm, a herd of elephants descended into the Khoh River near Toot Gadera for water. A small calf was swept away by the strong current. It was carried quite some distance, eventually reaching the Lalpul bridge near the Siddhabali Temple in Kotdwar, he explained. There, the elephants worked together collectively and managed to pull the calf out of the flow. Following the rescue, the herd, with the calf safely amidst them, moved towards the Pulinda forest. News of the dramatic event quickly spread, drawing a large crowd of curious onlookers to the spot. Forest personnel from Dugadda and Kotdwar were deployed to manage the gathering and ensure the elephants undisturbed passage. Commenting on the extraordinary act, Ranganath Pandey, former Deputy Director of Gangotri National Park and a Wildlife Management gold medallist from WII, highlighted the herds sophisticated communication abilities. The range of human hearing in terms of frequency is typically considered to be from 20 Hz to 20,000 Hz. Elephants have a slightly different range, typically from 1 Hz to 20,000 Hz, Pandey told TNIE . Elephants are particularly sensitive to low-frequency sounds, often below 20 Hz, which can include rumblings and vibrations that are beyond human hearing range. This allows them to communicate over long distances and detect seismic cues. This remarkable ability likely played a crucial role in the swift and coordinated response, enabling the distant elephants to perceive the calfs distress call and rally to its aid, added Pandey.

Rahul Gandhi urges PM Modi to announce relief package for flood-hit states

New Delhi: In the wake of devastation due to floods, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Wednesday urged Prime Minister Narendra Modi to immediately announce a special relief package for Punjab, Jammu and Kashmir, Uttarakhand and Himachal Pradesh, as well as accelerate relief and rescue operations. The Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha said, Modiji, 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 .

Uttarakhand school holidays in September 2025: Check rain-related closure updates, orders & more

Over the past 24 hours, Kumaon has been the worst affected by rainfall. According to IMD data, Nainital district recorded some of the heaviest showersHaldwani received 116.6 mm, Chorgalia 118 mm and Nainital town 114 mm. Mukteshwar (98.4 mm), Khatima in Udham Singh Nagar (92.5 mm), Betalghat (85 mm), Munsiyari (82.4 mm) and Pithoragarh (74.1 mm) also witnessed intense downpours.

DC Edit | Get Ready For Heavier Monsoons

Over the past three months, the southwest monsoon has already triggered several disasters caused by cloudbursts and flooding in many parts of the country. Heavy rainfall may continue to trigger landslides and flash floods in Uttarakhand during September

Rare parasite strikes Uttarakhand's mountainous regions, health alert issued

DEHRADUN: A rare parasitic disease, Cystic Echinococcosis (CE), is gradually spreading in the mountainous regions of Uttarakhand, raising concern among health officials. The condition causes dangerous, fluid-filled cysts in the liver and lungs of patients, posing a serious threat to life. In recent years, 25 cases of CE have been confirmed in Uttarakhand. Experts believe the actual number may be much higher, as the disease is difficult to diagnose. A new study, the first of its kind in the state, will now examine the prevalence and characteristics of CE among suspected patients from the hill districts. This initiative comes after a recent report in the Life Journal , which confirmed the diseases presence in Kashmir. The study, conducted in Srinagar between 2019 and 2024, found CE in 12 out of 110 suspected patients eight women and four men with an average age of 46 to 58 years. The Uttarakhand study is being led by Dr. Abhay Kumar, Senior General Surgeon at State Doon Medical College Hospital. The initial symptoms of CE often resemble common ailments, making timely diagnosis very difficult, he explained. The disease is caused by the parasite Echinococcus granulosus , which thrives in areas where sheep, goats, and dogs are reared together. Humans usually contract it through contaminated food, such as unwashed fruits and vegetables. Once inside the body, the parasite mainly targets the liver and lungs, forming cysts that can grow silently for years. According to Dr. Kumar, patients from across Uttarakhands mountainous districts have been diagnosed, with the highest number of cases reported in Uttarkashi, Chamoli, and Tehri. We have identified 25 confirmed cases of CE in the state over the past few years, he said, adding that his team is conducting a retrospective study of suspected patients, with results expected soon. A key concern is that CE progresses silently. Symptoms often do not appear until cysts grow larger than 10 cm, when patients may develop severe abdominal pain, loss of appetite, and recurrent vomiting.

MHA frames stricter rules under Immigration and Foreigners Act 2025 to tighten entry, stay norms

NEW DELHI: With an aim to further tighten national security by better regulating immigration into the country, the Union Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) on Tuesday issued a set of new rules under the Immigration and Foreigners Act, 2025, which stipulates stricter norms for entry, stay and deportation of foreigners. The order through a gazette notification said, foreigners may be denied entry or stay in India, if found to be convicted of serious crimes such as terrorism, espionage, rape, murder, human trafficking, cybercrime, drug smuggling, or membership of a banned organisation. More to these offences, people found to be involved in cases relating to fake travel documents, money laundering, hawala transactions, child abuse and racketeering will also be barred from entering India. Noting that India would continue to maintain a strict zero-tolerance toward individuals involved in anti-national or subversive activities, in order the MHA has advised the Bureau of Immigration to maintain and update a database of such individuals and prohibit their entry. According to officials, all states and Union Territories (UT) have been asked to set up dedicated detention or holding centres for illegal immigrants until they are deported. The centres will restrict the movement of foreign nationals found staying without valid documents. The Coast Guard and border security forces have also been instructed to capture biometric and demographic details of illegal entrants before their deportation, they said. As per the MHA order, it is mandatory for every foreigner applying for a visa or Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) registration to provide biometric details before approval and these include fingerprints, facial scans and other data, which will be stored on a central government portal. Foreigners seeking employment in India cannot work in sensitive sectors such as power supply, petroleum or water distribution without explicit approval from civil authorities, it noted. The new rules also tighten regulations on media and mountaineering expeditions, as in the order, the MHA said, Foreigners wishing to shoot feature films, documentaries, web series or reality shows in India must obtain written permission from the central government. Foreigners must also secure special permits to enter protected or restricted regions, including Arunachal Pradesh, Manipur, Mizoram, Nagaland, Sikkim, parts of Jammu and Kashmir, Uttarakhand, Ladakh, Himachal Pradesh, and Rajasthan. Nationals of Afghanistan, China, and Pakistan will not be allowed entry into these sensitive areas. Notifying the conditions under which foreigners may be refused permission to leave India, the MHA said, These include pending court cases, risks to public health, potential harm to diplomatic relations or orders from law enforcement agencies, and the Bureau of Immigration will maintain an updated list of individuals barred from departure. On the arrival of seamen and crew of aircraft, the MHA said a seaman or the crew of an aircraft, who is a foreigner, shall require a landing permit or a shore leave pass for entry into India, if not in possession of a valid Indian visa.

Weather Updates: North India On Red Alert; Heavy Rains Likely In Odisha, Andhra

IMD issues red and orange alerts as heavy rainfall, landslides, and floods hit Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, and Delhi, disrupting daily life and travel.

In Pics: Heavy Rain, Floods Ravage Parts Of North India

Normal life has been severely disrupted in many parts of north India, including Punjab, Haryana, Delhi, Jammu and Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand, due to unprecedented rainfall over the past few days.

Meet woman, ex-Miss Uttarakhand, who left modelling after father's retirement, cleared UPSC exam with AIR..., is 'perfect example of beauty with brain, she is from...

Meet woman, former MIss Uttarakhand, who left modelling at started her preparations for UPSC exams, after father's retirement. She appeared for UPSC exam three times but failed each time.

Centre must provide funds to flood-affected states: Congress

New Delhi: The Congress on Tuesday demanded that the Centre must provide more funds to the flood-affected states in North India, and a dedicated package be given to Himachal Pradesh, Jammu and Kashmir, Punjab, Uttarakhand and Haryana. Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge asserted that there should be no politicking in the wake of natural disasters. He 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 .

Uttarakhand's Char Dham yatra faces unprecedented disruption, economic fallout looms

DEHRADUN: Uttarakhand's revered Char Dham Yatra, which commenced on April 30, 2025, is grappling with one of its most challenging seasons in recent memory. An analysis by the Dehradun-based Social Development for Communities (SDC) Foundation reveals severe disruptions, with the first four months marking a significant downturn in pilgrim footfall. As of August 31, the Yatra has witnessed a staggering 55 ero-Pilgrim days instances where not a single devotee could reach the sacred shrines. Additionally, there were 89 days where footfall across the Dhams remained critically low, between one and 1,000 pilgrims. Anoop Nautiyal, founder of SDC, highlighted the disproportionate impact on certain shrines. Among the four shrines, Yamunotri has been the worst affected, with 23 Zero-Pilgrim days and 30 days with one to 1,000 visitors. Gangotri faced 27 Zero-Pilgrim days, he told TNIE . In contrast, Hemkund Sahib and Badrinath recorded only 3 and 2 Zero-Pilgrim days, respectively, though they too experienced low turnout on multiple occasions. Nautiyal asserted that these repeated disruptions, primarily due to extreme weather, landslides, and other disasters, have severely impacted the Yatra, breaking the backbone of Uttarakhands pilgrimage-driven economy. With lakhs of local livelihoods dependent on this annual pilgrimage, the situation demands urgent government intervention. The Char Dham Yatra is one of the key economic lifelines of our hill economy, Nautiyal stated. The frequency of weather and rain-related disasters this year clearly shows that the state needs to shift its focus from record-setting pilgrim numbers to building resilience and sustainability in pilgrimage infrastructure. He stressed the critical need for investment in climate-resilient roads, improved drainage, real-time weather monitoring, and robust communication networks. Furthermore, a comprehensive economic relief package for affected businesses, transporters, and service providers is essential to avert bankruptcies and mitigate societal upheaval. The outlook remains uncertain, with the Yatra already suspended for five days in early September and crucial road access to Yamunotri and Gangotri severely damaged. Making the Yatra climate and disaster proof, and not merely a numbers-driven exercise, must become the guiding principle, Nautiyal concluded, urging for planning focused on resilience over record-breaking figures.