NBCC Shares Trade Lower Despite Rs 658-Crore Order Win
NBCC won one order from the Uttarakhand Investment and Infrastructure Development Board and another from the Centre for development of Telematics.
UCC to give equal rights to all citizens, end oppression of Muslim women: Uttarakhand CM
Rudrapur (Ukhand), Mar 24: Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami on Monday said the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) will give equal rights to every citizen of the state regardless of their religion or caste and end the oppression of Muslim women. Addressing the gathering at a function held at Gandhi Park here to felicitate him on the completion of three years of his second term as chief minister, Dhami said his government is living up to the expectations of the [] The post UCC to give equal rights to all citizens, end oppression of Muslim women: Uttarakhand CM appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Uttarakhand CM Pushkar Singh Dhami Marks Three Years In Office With 3 Major Announcements
On the occasion of completing three years in office, Chief Minister Shri Pushkar Singh Dhami made three major announcements on Sunday for students, youth, UPNAL, and contractual employees. The state government will provide financial assistance to ...
CM Dhami marks government's three-year milestone with 'Fit India, Fit Uttarakhand' campaign
DEHRADUN: Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami celebrated his government's three-year milestone on Sunday with a grand event in Dehradun, launching the Fit India, Fit Uttarakhand campaign. The initiative, which featured a run and cycling rally, aimed to promote fitness among the youth. Dhami actively participated, riding alongside young participants and even joining them for push-ups, sending a strong message about health and wellness. The day's events began with the Fit India Run, followed by a roadshow led by the Chief Minister. Addressing a large public gathering, Dhami highlighted his government's achievements over the past three years, stressing that his tenure had been marked by concrete action rather than mere announcements. Looking ahead to the next two years, Dhami outlined a comprehensive agenda focused on creating new employment opportunities, enhancing tourism, and implementing targeted schemes for women and youth. The people of the state have broken a myth by re-electing the government for a second time, he said, underlining the significance of the recent electoral outcome. Dhami urged citizens to reject divisive mindsets based on regionalism or casteism, reminding them that such attitudes undermine the sacrifices made for the creation of Uttarakhand. His appeal for unity and brotherhood resonated strongly with the audience. Reaffirming his administrations commitment to Hindutva, Dhami declared, We are determined to tackle pressing issues such as 'land jihad,' 'love jihad,' and 'spit jihad.' Our focus remains on safeguarding the sanctity of Uttarakhand. Highlighting the states economic progress, Dhami announced a 4.4 per cent decrease in the unemployment rate, acknowledging the challenges while celebrating significant milestones. Our state is gaining recognition in the tourism sector, he said, adding that Uttarakhand is emerging as a major tourist destination. In a bold move against examination malpractice, Dhami revealed that the government has implemented the countrys first stringent anti-cheating law. This law aims to clamp down on the cheating mafia and uphold the integrity of our educational assessments, he asserted.
Uttarakhand CM Pushkar Singh Dhami marks three years in office with key announcements
Uttarakhand CM Pushkar Singh Dhami announced financial aid for competitive exam aspirants, job training for the youth, and a policy for UPNAL employees. Major projects will be awarded to local contractors. The government highlighted significant development in various sectors, celebrated milestones, and honored contributions to governance.
Uttarakhand priest booked for denying Dalit couples wedding in temple
A priest in Uttarakhands Pauri Garhwal has been booked under the SC/ST Prevention of Atrocities Act for allegedly denying a Dalit couple entry into a temple for their wedding, Indian Express reported. The FIR was registered on March 12 after the brides father, Nakul Das, filed a complaint alleging that the couple was prevented from Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
IGU To Launch Inaugural Sixes Format For Juniors
Golf Sixes Junior Tournament: Indias golf landscape is on the brink of a thrilling transformation, as the Indian Golf Union (IGU) will organise the first-ever Golf Sixes Junior Tournament on Monday at the DLF Golf & Country Club in Gurgaon. Organised in partnership with the world golf rules governing body, The R&A, Golf Sixes is designed to make the sport more dynamic, accessible, and engaging for young players with its six-hole, team-based structure, opening the door for golf to become as popular and appealing to Indias youth as shorter formats of cricket like T20 and T10. Indian Golf Union (IGU) president Brijinder Singh, expressed his excitement and confidence that the new version of golf will create a wave of interest among the younger generation. We can expect a comparable success story. Just as T20 revolutionised cricket by shortening the game and making it more dynamic and spectator-friendly, this new format of golf does the same. It condenses the sport into a more exciting and engaging experience, allowing a new generation to enjoy the thrill of the game in a shorter time frame. Similarly, Six-Hole Golf could capture the attention of younger players and audiences, potentially driving a significant rise in the sport's popularity, Brijinder Singh said in a statement. The collaboration between the IGU and The R&A also underscores a shared commitment to long-term growth. By focusing on players aged 12 and under, the tournament directly contributes to growing the sport from the grassroots level. The inaugural tournament will feature players from six states/union territories in North India: Delhi, Haryana, Punjab, Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh and Chandigarh. Each team will comprise of two players. These regions, each with their own golfing talent pools, will bring a diverse array of young players to the tournament, showcasing the increasing interest in junior golf across the country. The collaboration between the IGU and The R&A also underscores a shared commitment to long-term growth. By focusing on players aged 12 and under, the tournament directly contributes to growing the sport from the grassroots level. Also Read: Highest tax paying cricketers Article Source: IANS
Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami marked three years in office, emphasising the implementation of the Uniform Civil Code, strict anti-conversion laws, and actions against illegal constructions. He highlighted responses to disasters and efforts to boost investment and women's empowerment. Dhami also pointed to significant projects like major ropeway projects aimed at improving the region's infrastructure.
Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami highlights achievements in office, including UCC, anti-conversion laws, and crackdown on illegal structures.
DEHRADUN, Mar 22: Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami on Saturday said his Government faced several challenges related to demographic change in the state and affirmed that it will continue to take actions like removing encroachments and verification drive to address the issue during its tenure. Giving a report card on the State Governments performance over three years of his second term, he highlighted the implementation of independent Indias first Uniform Civil Code (UCC), the introduction of strict anti-conversion [] The post Dhami gives report card on 3 yrs of second term, cites steps to check demography change among achievements appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Uttarakhands holy rivers Ganga and Sharda to get a grand makeover for devotees & tourists
Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami announced plans to develop corridors along the Ganga and Sharda rivers, emphasizing their religious significance. This initiative aims to boost religious tourism and improve pilgrim facilities, aligning with the government's vision to preserve the state's cultural and spiritual heritage.
Outsiders in Uttarakhand: Enforcement of land law leaves many out in cold
DEHRADUN: The enforcement of Uttarakhands new land law has classified many residents as outsiders due to the addresses of other states mentioned on their Aadhaar cards. This situation has especially impacted people who relocated for employment opportunities, putting them at risk of losing their ancestral lands, said a source close to the district administration. The district administration has issued orders to consider these people as non-residents, leading to government claims over their ancestral properties, said a local official. According to sources within the revenue department, the stringent regulations of the new land law are catching many residents off guard. This has raised concerns about the implications for families who have lived in the state for generations. After the new land law was enforced, CM Pushkar Singh Dhami instructed all district magistrates to reclaim any land acquired in violation of the law. Dehradun has reported 282 cases of land law violations so far. Following the CMs directives, Dehradun District Magistrate Savin Bansal has ordered tehsildars and SDMs to investigate the violations. Preliminary findings indicate that over 200 hectares of land have been illegally purchased by outsiders, prompting the district administration to take possession of the properties. All landowners have been issued notices, providing them a final opportunity to present their case. If they fail to prove their ownership, the government will retain control of the disputed land, Bansal said. We have directed all SDMs to prepare reports on violations in land purchases. A list of individuals who have concealed facts while acquiring residential or agricultural land exceeding 250 square metres in Dehradun and its vicinity is being compiled, he said. Investigations have revealed that 393 people purchased land in violation of regulations, with actions taken in around 300 cases. Notices have been issued for over 200 hectares, urging owners to respond. Many Uttarakhand residents working outside the state for several years have registered local addresses on their Aadhaar cards. When the administration traced these landowners, discrepancies arose based on the addresses listed. Many residents now face challenges in proving their claims as government prepares to take over the contested land, officials said. Tehsildars, SDMs told to investigate violations Following the CMs directives, Dehradun District Magistrate Savin Bansal has ordered tehsildars and SDMs to investigate the violations. Preliminary findings indicate that over 200 hectares of land have been illegally purchased by outsiders, prompting the district administration to take possession of the properties.
J&K Veteran Cricket team flagged off for North Zone Tourney
Excelsior Sports Correspondent JAMMU, Mar 21: The J&K Veteran Cricket Team was flagged off by DIG of the Jammu-Kathua-Samba Range, Shiv Kumar Sharma for North Zone Tournament, set to take place in Haridwar. Sharma was joined by Gaurav Gupta, spokesperson BJP, K S Jamwal, Senior Vice President, and Vivek Suri, General Secretary of the Veteran Cricket Association of J&K. The tournament is being organized by the Veteran Cricket Association of Uttarakhand under the aegis of the Board for Veteran Cricket [] The post J&K Veteran Cricket team flagged off for North Zone Tourney appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
'Modi-Dhami' food kits to be distributed among poor Muslims on Eid: Uttarakhand Waqf Board
The Uttarakhand Waqf Board announced the distribution of free 'Modi-Dhami' food kits and children's clothes to poor Muslims on Eid. The kits include items like milk, rice, sugar, vermicelli, and dry fruits. Additionally, the board will charge market rate rent for commercial tenants and take action against illegal occupants of Waqf properties post-Eid.
Uttarakhand: Online registrations begin for Char Dham Yatra, Hemkund Sahib
DEHRADUN, Mar 20: Online registrations for the Char Dham Yatra and Hemkund Sahib in Uttarakhand commenced on Thursday. Devotees interested in visiting the Himalayan temples of Badrinath, Kedarnath, Gangotri, and Yamunotri or the Sikh shrine of Hemkund Sahib can now register by visiting the website of the Uttarakhand Tourism Development Council (registrationandtouristcare.uk.gov.in), officials said. The [] The post Uttarakhand: Online registrations begin for Char Dham Yatra, Hemkund Sahib appeared first on Northlines .
Online Registrations Begin For Char Dham Yatra, Hemkund Sahib
DEHRADUN, Mar 20: Online registrations for the Char Dham Yatra and Hemkund Sahib in Uttarakhand commenced on Thursday. Devotees interested in visiting the Himalayan temples of Badrinath, Kedarnath, Gangotri, and Yamunotri or the Sikh shrine of Hemkund Sahib can now register by visiting the website of the Uttarakhand Tourism Development Council (registrationandtouristcare.uk.gov.in), officials said. The Char Dham Yatra will begin on April 30 with the opening of the doors of Gangotri and Yamunotri temples in Uttarkashi district. Kedarnath in Rudraprayag [] The post Online Registrations Begin For Char Dham Yatra, Hemkund Sahib appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Uttarakhand court sentences five, including village head for burning alive captive leopard
DEHRADUN: The Chief Judicial Magistrates Court in Pauri, Uttarakhand, has sentenced five villagers, including the former village head, to one year of simple imprisonment for setting a captive leopard on fire. The court has also imposed a fine of Rs 3,500 on each convict, with an additional 15 days of imprisonment in case of non-payment. According to reports, on May 24, 2022, an enraged mob burned a caged leopard alive in the village of Saplodi, located in the Pabau block. Following the incident, a case was registered at Kotwali Pauri based on a complaint by a forest officer. Five individuals, including the former village head, were named in the case, along with 150 unidentified persons. The charges included violations of the Wildlife Protection Act and obstruction of public servants in their duties. The region, including villages like Bhatti, Sarna, Kulmori, and Saplodi, had been living in fear due to frequent leopard sightings throughout 2022. The situation worsened on May 15, 2022, when Sushma Devi, a resident of Sarpatodi village, was attacked and killed by a leopard while returning home from the Harialisaidh forest, where she had gone with a friend to collect mountain berries known as 'Kafal.' Following demands from the villagers, the forest department set up two traps in Saplodi on May 16, 2022. One of the traps successfully captured a leopard. However, when forest officials arrived to retrieve it, a large crowd gathered. According to reports, the mob demanded the immediate execution of the trapped leopard. When forest officials tried to intervene, the villagers, led by the then-village head, took matters into their own hands and set the leopard on fire while it was still alive. Following the incident, Satish Lal, the then Forest Officer of Bua Khal, filed a complaint that led to the registration of a case against five individuals, including former village head Anil Kumar Negi, Devendra Singh from Chopra and Sarita Devi, Bhuvaneshwari Devi, and Kailashi Devi from Sarna village, guilty of the crime. They were charged with violating the Wildlife Protection Act, obstructing public servants in their duties, and criminal assault. Chief Judicial Magistrate Lakshman Singh sentenced all five to one year of imprisonment, holding them accountable for the brutal act that violated wildlife protection laws.
Tamil Nadu tops list of road accidents due to minors on wheels
NEW DELHI: Tamil Nadu saw the highest number of road accidents caused by underage drivers in the country last year. According to the data placed by the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways in the Rajya Sabha on Wednesday, a total of 11,890 road accidents involving underage drivers were reported across states and union territories (UTs) in 2023-24. And most of them (2,063) took place in Tamil Nadu. Madhya Pradesh saw the second highest number of road accidents involving minors (1,138), and Maharashtra the third highest with 1,067 cases. It was followed by UP, which saw 935 road mishaps involving vehicles driven by minors, and Andhra Pradesh saw 766 such cases. The data was placed as part of the reply of Union Minister of Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari on challans issued to underage traffic rules violators. In response to a question by Congress MP Neeraj Dangi seeking details of the steps taken by the government against minors driving vehicles, Gadkari informed the House that an e-challan system had been developed for the monitoring and enforcement of challans. In his response, the minister stated that as many as 1,316 challans had been issued for allowing minors to drive in Bihar in 2023-24, through which the authorities collected a revenue of Rs 44.27 lakh. Likewise, 71 vehicle owners or those in charge of a vehicle were issued challans in Chhattisgarh for letting someone without a licence drive. A revenue of Rs 1.3 lakh was collected through the exercise. The ministers reply also noted that a total of 65 individuals had been challaned in Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) for similar offences and 22 persons were penalised in Delhi and Uttarakhand separately. The revenue earned by the J&K administration through challans amounted to Rs 1.36 lakh. Besides, Delhi and Uttarakhand collected Rs 44,000 and Rs 1.05 lakh through the exercise, respectively.
Uttarakhand: 6 GB Pant University officials dismissed over ragging
DEHRADUN: Six officials of GB Pant University of Agriculture and Technology in Uttarakhands Udham Singh Nagar have been relieved of their duties after a youth was subjected to humiliation on the campus. Officials at the university had reportedly asked the man to sit down like a murga (rooster). Acting on the recommendation of the vice-chancellor, the additional chief personnel officer has removed the additional director of administration, the security officer, the vigilance officer and three assistant security officers from their positions. Kichha Assemblys Congress MLA, Tilak Raj Behar, has shared videos and photos on his Facebook page that show the youth being thrashed. In the video, the man could be seen kneeling down to appear like a rooster. Speaking to The New Indian Express, Behar shared, This matter is extremely serious. A security officer has no right to humiliate anyone in this manner. He described the assault as unacceptable.
Priest, associates booked for obstructing Scheduled Caste woman's wedding in Uttarakhand
DEHRADUN: A priest and two of his associates have been booked by the district revenue police for caste-based discrimination in Uttarakhand's Pauri Garhwal district. Reports have emerged from Kathur village in the Maniyarsyun Patti area of Pauri district, where a Scheduled Caste woman's wedding faced obstruction from members of the Brahmin community. Allegations have surfaced that the temple priest, fearing that the Scheduled Caste family might hold the wedding at the temple, took the drastic step of locking the 'Yagyashala' (where marriage was supposed to be solemnised). Following the revelation, local authorities sprang into action to address the situation and uphold the rights of the community involved. Citing concerns over caste discrimination, the authorities have recognized the sensitivity of the case and have immediately transferred the investigation to the civil police for further scrutiny. A local source stated, The priest acted out of concern that a Scheduled Caste family would conduct their daughter's wedding in the temple. This incident has raised significant concerns about caste discrimination and has sparked outrage among community members. According to the sources from revenue police , Nakul Dass, the father of the bride, from Kathur village, submitted a complaint to the Sub-Divisional Magistrate alleging discrimination against his family during his daughter's wedding. My daughters engagement was arranged with a young man from Bedgaon, he stated in his letter. Due to financial constraints, Dass explained that they decided to hold the wedding at the Adishakti Maa Bhuvaneshwari Temple in Sanguda Bilkhet. When we requested to unlock the temple, we were met with verbal abuse and derogatory remarks associated with our caste, he added. Following the intervention of the revenue police, the temple door was finally opened, enabling the wedding to proceed as scheduled. In response to the incident, District Magistrate Dr Ashish Chauhan has ordered that the case be transferred to the regular police for further investigation. This incident has sparked significant concerns regarding caste-based discrimination in the region.
The resignation of Premchand Agrawal as Uttarakhand's cabinet minister has revived the belief of a jinx associated with the R-2 bungalow in Dehradun. This comes amidst a history of ministers who stayed there not completing their terms. Superstition also surrounds the chief minister's residence with similar outcomes for past occupants.
UPCL Apprentice Recruitment 2025 - Apply Online for 155 Posts
UPCL Recruitment 2025 Apply Online: Uttarakhand Power Corporation (UPCL) has announced the recruitment of 155 Apprentice in 2025. Candidates With B.Tech/B.E, Diploma Can Apply Online on or before 25-03-2025.
Himachal Pradeshs Lahaul-Spiti most vulnerable to avalanches: Study
NEW DELHI: A new study of 11 Western Himalayan districts shows that most of Himachal Pradeshs districts are the most vulnerable to avalanches, followed by districts of Uttarakhand. The study indicates that man-made activities, including the rapid construction of roads, dams, and tunnels and the regular movement of heavy vehicles, are the reasons behind the increasing incidents of avalanches. Earlier this month, an avalanche hit a Border Roads Organisation camp in the village of Mana, located in Chamoli, killing eight workers. The Indian Institute of Science Education and Research (IISER), based in Bhopal, analysed the Indian Western Himalayas (IWH), which showed that Lahaul and Spiti are the most vulnerable to avalanches in Himachal Pradesh, while Chamoli is the most vulnerable in Uttarakhand. The study, A multiaggregation approach to estimate avalanche vulnerability and suggest phasewise adaptation, attributed increased avalanches in the IWH to multiple factors, such as climate change, complex terrain, and increasing human activities. To measure the increasing risks, researchers Akshay Singhal, M. Kavya, and Sanjeev K. Jha of IISER developed a district-level avalanche vulnerability frameworkthe Combined Avalanche Vulnerability Index (CAVI) in the IWHthat considers all major meteorological, topographical, and anthropogenic factors. Results from CAVI show that Lahaul and Spiti are the most exposed districts (0.85), Shimla is the most sensitive, and Rudraprayag (0.3) is the least adaptive district to avalanches. Moreover, three out of five districts of Himachal Pradesh are highly vulnerable to avalanches, while five out of six districts of Uttarakhand are moderately vulnerable. Overall, Lahaul and Spiti is the most vulnerable district, while Shimla the most sensitive, and Pauri Garhwal are the least vulnerable district. The study provides an inclusive characterisation of avalanche-prone regions, supported by a phase-wise adaptation plan to mitigate potential risks. The outcomes will be helpful to disaster mitigation agencies, emergency departments, avalanche forecasters and agencies related to recreational activities, said Jha. The team also assessed each of the 11 districts' avalanche risk based on exposure, sensitivity, and adaptive capacity. The authors explained that meteorological factors, such as rainfall, snow depth, and temperature, contribute to a district's 'exposure' to avalanches, while slope and population affect 'sensitivity'. Socio-economic factors, such as literacy, hospitals, forests, and houses with concrete walls, help determine a district's population's capacity to adapt to an increased avalanche risk. Avalanches are estimated to cause about 30-40 deaths each year and often have disruptive impacts, from blocking critical transport routes to damaging infrastructure. While avalanche risk is largely attributed to weather, climate, and terrain, it has also increased due to human activities, including the rapid construction of roads, dams, and tunnels and the regular movement of heavy vehicles, the authors said.
Nest for future: Uttarakhands forests set to flourish with bird-friendly flora
DEHRADUN: In a groundbreaking move to enhance avian habitats, the research wing of Uttarakhands forest department is embarking on an ambitious plan to cultivate tree, shrub and vine species favoured by birds for feeding. This initiative marks a significant step forward in our commitment to biodiversity and conservation, said a spokesperson from the forest department. The programme will specifically target the hilly regions of the state and is being integrated into the departments 10-year action plan for the first time. According to sources, the Uttarakhand Forest Research Wing has initiated a comprehensive study to identify which birds depend on specific trees, vines and shrubs for food. Chief Conservator of Forests (Planning) Sanjeev Chaturvedi shared insights with this newspaper, stating, Experts have conducted studies in a location called Mandal in the Garhwal Himalayas. It was observed that the Himalayan ivy vine found in cedar forests attracts not just one or two, but 10 different species of birds that also make their nests there. Similarly, birds are drawn to species like Buransh, Hisalu, Mehal, Tejpatta, Kilmoda, and Ghagra. Chaturvedi further noted, Uttarakhand is home to over 700 bird species, of which approximately 30 are endangered. Until now, conservation efforts for birds were not included in our action plans. However, for the first time, we are integrating this aspect into our initiatives. Additionally, regular surveys of identified bird conservation areas and other recommendations have been proposed. According to forest officials, an increase in the diversity of tree species will naturally lead to a rise in bird populations. The upcoming action plan will specifically mention relevant species to ensure their cultivation and preservation. Speaking with this newspaper, renowned ornithologist and bird expert Ajay Sharma, who boasts 30 years of experience in the field, emphasised the importance of native flora for bird conservation. Barbet species and hornbills play a crucial role in the forest ecosystem by aiding in the planting of 50 to 70 varieties of wild and common fruit-bearing plants, he stated. Sharma revealed, To enhance bird habitats, the department should promote the planting of species such as Silver Oak, Semal, Indian Silk Cotton tree, Indian Fig tree, Kapoor tree, and Ashoka tree. These trees are particularly favoured by birds, who are attracted to them to create their nests.
Burglar who broke into BJP MP`s house in Hyderabad held
The accused, a native of Uttarakhand, had come to Hyderabad in February to commit property offences and make money. As part of his plan, he was moving around the posh locality of Jubilee Hills, the Deputy Commissioner of Police informed
Government notifications must include Hindu calendar dates, months, says Uttarakhand CM Dhami
Analysis of Himalayan districts shows Lahaul and Spiti most vulnerable to avalanches
Lahaul and Spiti in Himachal Pradesh is the most susceptible to avalanches, while Chamoli in Uttarakhand ranks highest in vulnerability within its state. Researchers from IISER, Bhopal, attributed this to climate change, terrain complexity, and human activities. The study highlights meteorological and socio-economic factors influencing district exposure, sensitivity, and adaptive capacity to avalanche risk.
Corbett, Uttarakhand Gear Up For Astro-Tourism And Dark Sky Event, All You Need To Know
The astro-tourism conclave would comprise in-depth and expert discussions, including interactive workshops and technical training sessions
Panic grips Uttarakhand's Jyotirmath as new sinkholes and submergence emerge
DEHRADUN: Residents of Jyotirmath in Uttarakhand are once again gripped by fear as fresh sinkholes and submergence threaten their safety. Alarmed local citizens alerted authorities, prompting the tehsil administration to conduct an on-site inspection. This alarming situation has raised significant concerns within the community regarding safety and stability in the area. According to disaster management sources, a new sinkhole has formed in a field behind the Chandika Temple in Ravigram, Jyotirmath, measuring over ten feet deep. Reports indicate that rainwater is accumulating in the pit. Following the discovery, local residents promptly informed the tehsil administration. This area has experienced similar sinkholes during previous disasters, a local resident remarked, highlighting ongoing concerns about safety and stability in the region. Authorities are now assessing the situation to prevent further incidents. Local council member Pravesh Dimri expressed concern, stating, The sudden appearance of a deep pit in the flat land has instilled fear among nearby residents. People are anxious about the risk of land subsidence. According to sources, a wall collapsed last night in Gandhinagar, resulting in debris entering over five homes. Residents are on edge as land subsidence has increased during the rainy season. Local residents reported the situation to authorities after noticing cracks appearing due to the heavy rainfall. The landslide has caused debris to infiltrate more than four homes, while two others have suffered partial damage. Community members are urging prompt action to address the growing concerns over safety in the area. Chamoli District Disaster Management Officer Nandkishore Joshi stated, We have requested a report from the Revenue Department regarding the reports of a wall collapse in Jyotirmath and a pit in Ravigram. Further action will be taken accordingly. The situation is being closely monitored as authorities assess the damage. Notably, an expert committee set up in September 2023 to investigate the cause of the submergence, raised questions about the load-carrying capacity. However, the committee has given a clean chit to the National Thermal Power Corporation (NTPC), which has been targeted by various organizations and residents of Joshimath for this land subsidence. Scientists Identify Key Causes of Joshimath Disaster : Experts have identified several major factors contributing to the disaster in Joshimath: 1. Construction on a pile of debris in an old landslide area. 2. Inadequate drainage systems leading to groundwater seepage. 3. Lack of channelization and reinforcement of drains in the city and surrounding areas. 4. Failure to take measures to prevent erosion from the Alaknanda River. 5. Unregulated construction activities not aligned with the land's load-bearing capacity. 6. Ignoring scientific recommendations made 47 years ago despite warnings.
Uttarakhand Minister Premchand Aggarwal Resigns After Remark In Assembly Triggers Row
Uttarakhand minister Premchand Aggarwal resigned from the Cabinet on Sunday, weeks after his remark in the assembly on people from the state's hill regions had sparked protests.
Uttarakhand finance minister Premchand Aggarwal resigns amid row over his remarks
Uttarakhand Finance Minister Premchand Aggarwal, whose remarks on people from hill regions sparked a row, resigned on Sunday.
Uttarakhand Finance Minister Premchand Aggarwal resigns
Uttarakhand Minister Prem Chandra Agarwal resigns after controversial remarks about hill residents, sparking political backlash.
BJP MLA demands ban on 'non-Hindus' in Kedarnath for allegedly maligning Dham's image
DEHRADUN: BJP MLA from Kedarnath assembly constituency, Asha Nautiyal, said that a meeting was held for the 'yatra' management in Kedarnath, and people raised some issues that went unnoticed. Nautiyal said that she agrees with the issues raised by the people and that there are some people who do anything to malign the image of the Kedarnath Dham. She demanded that such people be banned from entering the temple premises. There was a meeting held recently regarding the Yatra management at Kedarnath... Some people raised an issue that some incidents take place which go unnoticed. I also agree if some people are doing anything that may malign the image of Kedarnath Dham, then the entry of such people should be banned, Asha Nautiyal said to ANI on Sunday. Further, Nautityal alleged that these people are definitely on-Hindus who come to defame the temple and are involved in such activities. They are definitely non-Hindus who come there and are involved in such activities which defame the Dham... We need to look into it because if such an issue has been raised, then there must be something to it... We will demand that the entry of such people be banned..., she added. Earlier, the Union Cabinet approved the two ropeway projects at Kedarnath and Hemkund Sahib to boost Uttarakhand's tourist infrastructure. Once completed, these ambitious projects will facilitate a quick and seamless experience for visitors to both popular pilgrim sites. The one at Kedarnath is a 12.9 km ropeway project starting from Sonprayag Kedarnath. It will be developed using a Design, Build, Finance, Operate, and Transfer (DBFOT) mode and has a total capital cost of Rs 4,081.28 crore. The ropeway is planned to be developed in a public-private partnership and will be based on the most advanced Tri-cable Detachable Gondola (3S) technology. Its design capacity is 1,800 passengers per hour per direction (PPHPD), and it can carry 18,000 passengers per day.
Explained: How Indias new Immigration Bill overhauls foreign entry, visa rules
Anyone found using a forged passport or visa for entering, staying or exiting India will be punished with a jail term of up to seven years and a fine to the extent of Rs 10 lakh if the new immigration bill is approved by Parliament. The legislation , piloted by the Union Home Ministry, also provides for mandatory reporting of information about foreigners by hotels, universities, other educational institutions, hospitals and nursing homes to enable tracking of overstaying foreigners. All international airlines and ships will also be required to submit at a port or place in India the passenger and crew manifest, the advance information of passengers and crew on board of such aircraft, vessel or other mode of transport. Whoever knowingly uses or supplies a forged or fraudulently obtained passport or other travel document or visa for entering into India or staying in or exiting from India, shall be punishable with an imprisonment for a term which shall not be less than two years, but may extend to seven years and shall also be liable to fine which shall not be less than one lakh rupees, but may extend to ten lakh rupees, according to the bill introduced in Lok Sabha on March 11. It also says that any foreigner who enters into any area in India without a valid passport or other travel document, including visa required for such entry in contravention of provisions of the law or of any rule or order given in pursuance thereof, shall be punishable with an imprisonment for a term which may extend to five years with a fine which may extend to five lakh rupees or with both. The legislation empowers the Centre to exert control over places that are frequented by any foreigner and require the owner to close the premises, permit its use under specified conditions, or refuse admission to all or a specified class of foreigners. Draft immigration bill: Onus on individuals to prove citizenship, immigration officer to arrest person without warrant The Immigration and Foreigners Bill, 2025 is a comprehensive legislation to regulate all matters relating to foreigners and immigration. Matters relating to foreigners and immigration are presently administered through four Acts-the Passport (Entry into India) Act, 1920, the Registration of Foreigners Act, 1939, the Foreigners Act, 1946 and the Immigration (Carriers' Liability) Act, 2000. All these laws are now proposed to be repealed. While the Immigration and Foreigners Bill, 2025 consists of several existing provisions in the four Acts proposed to be repealed after simplification and harmonisation, it also has certain new provisions to meet the present-day requirements. This legislation is in line with the government's policy of simplification of laws, ease of doing business and minimising compliance burden. It seeks to balance the requirements of national security and related issues of immigration of foreigners with the need to promote economic growth and tourism in the country. However, it is not connected with any matters related with grant of citizenship. The Bill will help in tackling the problem of illegal migration into India and facilitate tracking of movement of overstaying foreigners within India. It will also help in reducing the compliance burden, an officer said. While Indian visas of all categories to foreigners can be granted in physical or sticker form by Indian missions or posts located abroad, the Bureau of Immigration (BoI) grants electronic visas under seven categories to people from 167 countries. Besides, visa-on-arrival is granted by immigration authorities at six designated airports to nationals of three countries -- Japan, South Korea and the UAE (only for such UAE nationals who had earlier obtained e-visa or regular or paper visa for India). The stay and movement of foreigners in India and their exit are regulated by the BoI and state governments and Union Territory administrations. According to existing laws, all foreigners on long-term (more than 180 days) student, medical, research, employment, missionary and project visas are required to register with the Foreigners Regional Registration Officer (FRRO) or the Foreigners Registration Officer (FRO) concerned, having jurisdiction over the place where the foreigner intends to stay, within 14 days of arrival. Pakistani nationals are required to register within 24 hours of their arrival. Other laws that cover foreigners in India include the Citizenship Act, 1955, which regulates acquisition and termination of Indian citizenship as well as acquisition and registration of foreigners as Overseas Citizens of India (OCI). Apart from movement, stay and visa, there are certain protected areas in India where foreigners need special permits to travel, including multiple states in the northeastern region, the whole of Andaman and Nicobar, and parts of Jammu and Kashmir, Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh and Rajasthan. According to Union Home Ministry data, 98.40 lakh foreigners visited India between April 1, 2023, and March 31, 2024. (With inputs from PTI)
Dehradun Diary | Jubin Nautiyal dedicates IIFA win to fans, state
Celebrated playback singer Jubin Nautiyal made a triumphant return to his hometown after winning the Best Playback Singer award at the International Indian Film Academy (IIFA) awards. This is dedicated to my fans, my family, and the divine land of Uttarakhand, he said upon his arrival. Jubins father, Ramsharan Nautiyal, sharing his pride with TNIE , said, This award is not just for my sons, it is a pride for all of Uttarakhand. Having received the accolade for his rendition of the song Dua in the film Article 370, Jubin was greeted by hundreds of enthusiastic local fans at Dehradun airport. Cricket commentary takes Sankrit turn In an unique initiative, Sanskrit commentary has made debut at a university-level cricket tournament hosted by Shri Raghu Nath Kirti Sanskrit University in Devprayag. Under the guidance of Dr Shriom Sharma, over 150 new Sanskrit terms related to cricket have been created, a university spokesperson said. Students are now engaging audiences with commentary using this vocabulary. Aiming to make the ancient Indian language accessible, the initiative not only promotes Sanskrit but also offers sports enthusiasts a fresh experience, Dr Sharma shares. Year-round operations for Purnagiri fair: Dhami CM Pushkar Singh Dhami on Saturday inaugurated Maa Purnagiri Fair in Tanakpur. Addressing the occasion, he said that the state government is committed to operating the fair year-round: Permanent infrastructure is being developed at Purnagiri Dham for this purpose. Emphasising the spiritual significance of the state, Dhami said, The land of Uttarakhand is blessed; divinity resides in every particle. He highlighted that the Maa Purnagiri Dham is among major religious sites, attracting most devotees after the Kumbh and Kanwar Yatra. In coming years, this place will become grander and more organised, with better facilities for pilgrims, he said. Narendra sethi Our correspondent in Uttarakhand narendrasethi@newindianexpress.com
Avalanche blocks Gangotri National Highway in Uttarkashi, several villages cut off
DEHRADUN: An avalanche has blocked the Gangotri National Highway, cutting off several villages from their tehsil and district headquarters. Fortunately, there have been no reports of casualties or property damage, but the highway is completely snow-covered. This incident marks the third avalanche in the region within a month. District Disaster Management Officer Jai Prakash Singh Panwar told TNIE on Saturday that ongoing snowfall is complicating efforts to reopen the national highway. As soon as the snowfall ceases, we will prioritize clearing the highway, he stated. In the meantime, the tehsil department is actively providing relief to the affected villages, ensuring that residents receive the necessary support during this challenging time, said Panwar. He added, Authorities are closely monitoring the situation and are prepared to take further action as conditions improve. Following clear weather on Friday, Uttarakhand experienced a shift on Saturday with rainfall and strong winds in hilly areas. Snowfall was reported in high-altitude regions, including Kedarnath and Badrinath, leading to a drop in temperatures. Currently, normal vehicles are barred from proceeding beyond Sukki Top due to heavy snow, allowing only 4x4 vehicles with non-skid chains. According to sources from the Disaster Management Department, CCTV cameras installed in the area where the avalanche occurred recorded the incident. This footage was crucial in alerting the authorities about the avalanche in the region. In addition, the Meteorological Department has issued warnings for continued rain and snowfall, stating, We expect adverse weather conditions to persist until late at night. The situation remains under close observation as officials prepare for potential further impacts from the severe weather. According to the Chamoli District Disaster Management Authority, Due to snowfall in Auli, roads have become covered in ice, causing difficulties for vehicles to pass. On Saturday, snowfall was reported in higher altitude areas of the state, including Auli, Badrinath, and Yamunotri. While heavy snowfall continues in the mountains, Rain is persisting in the plains, officials stated. House collapsed in Kumaon region, eight injured In the Kumaon region of Uttarakhand, heavy rainfall led to the collapse of a house, trapping eight individuals, including five children. Four of the injured were admitted to the hospital. The District Control Room in Bageshwar reported on Saturday that the State Disaster Response Force had been alerted about people being trapped in a damaged house in Sailani village. SDRF Sub-Inspector Santosh Parihar said, Due to continuous heavy rainfall in Sailani village, a residential house was damaged, trapping eight family members along with two buffaloes and seven goats. The SDRF team, alongside the fire service, district police, and local residents, successfully rescued all trapped individuals. A woman and three children sustained injuries and were promptly transported to the hospital with the help of an ambulance.
Uttarakhand: CM Dhami participates in Holi Milan in RSS office in Dehradun
Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami on Thursday participated in the Holi Milan ceremony organised at RSS headquarters on Tilak Road, Dehradun
Uttarakhand government sealed over 50 illegal Madrasas in past two weeks
Government officials said almost all of the Madrasas found to have illegal and un-aurthorized construction
Fact-Check: Unrelated Video Peddled as Mosque Being Demolished in Uttarakhand
The video is actually from Indonesia and shows the demolition of a structure in a theme park.
NEW DELHI: A parliamentary panel has said the Yamuna river's capacity to sustain life have been found to be almost non-existent in the Delhi stretch, noting that 23 out of the 33 monitored sites, including six in the national capital, failed to meet primary water quality standards. The Yamuna flows through a 40 km stretch in Delhi, entering at Palla from Haryana and exiting at Asgarpur into Uttar Pradesh. The dissolved oxygen (DO) levels, which reflect the river's capacity to sustain life, were found to be almost non-existent in the Delhi stretch, the parliamentary standing committee on water resources said in its report tabled in Parliament on Tuesday. In its report on the Upper Yamuna River Cleaning Project and river bed management in Delhi, the panel warned that despite the construction and upgrade of sewage treatment plants (STPs) in Delhi and Uttar Pradesh, pollution levels remain alarmingly high. The Committee called for a coordinated response from all stakeholders to tackle pollution and restore the river's health. It added that out of the 33 monitored sites, only four in Uttarakhand and four in Himachal Pradesh met the primary water quality criteria. The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) assessed water quality at 33 locations between January 2021 and May 2023, with state pollution control boards. The assessment covered four key parameters of Dissolved Oxygen (DO), pH, Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BOD), and Fecal Coliform (FC). The analysis showed that all four monitored sites in Uttarakhand and Himachal Pradesh met the required standards, while all six sites in Haryana failed. In Delhi, none of the seven sites complied with the standards in 2021, although the Palla site showed improvement in 2022 and 2023. The panel raised particular concerns over encroachment along the Yamuna floodplains. While Delhi and Haryana provided information on encroachments, Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand are yet to furnish complete details. The floodplain zone of the Yamuna in Uttar Pradesh remains undemarcated, despite its ecological importance in flood management. The Committee highlighted that the Delhi Development Authority (DDA) retrieved approximately 477.79 hectares from encroachments along the floodplains. However, some parts of the floodplains remain occupied due to ongoing litigation. The panel urged the Department of Water Resources, River Development, and Ganga Rejuvenation to work with the DDA and the state governments to expedite the removal of encroachments and ensure the restoration of the floodplain ecosystem. Legacy sludge in the Yamuna riverbed remains a major concern. A study conducted by the Delhi Irrigation and Flood Control Department in collaboration with CSIR-NEERI found high levels of heavy metals such as chromium, copper, lead, nickel, and zinc in sludge samples collected from key sites like the Old Iron Bridge, Geeta Colony, and the upstream of the DND Bridge during the pre-monsoon period. The panel recommended controlled dredging to remove this toxic sludge, warning that it poses a serious health hazard and contributes to the river's deteriorating quality. However, the National Mission for Clean Ganga (NMCG) raised concerns that large-scale dredging could destabilise the riverbed and cause further environmental degradation. The panel also flagged the failure to maintain environmental flow (E-flow) in the Yamuna. According to the 1994 MoU among Yamuna basin states, Haryana is required to release 10 cumecs of water from the Hathnikund Barrage to maintain ecological balance. However, the Committee noted that this flow is insufficient, as much of it evaporates or percolates before reaching Delhi. The panel urged the Department of Water Resources to resolve these differences and increase the E-flow to sustain the river's ecosystem. The report also criticised the lack of data on unauthorised industries operating in Delhi. The Delhi State Industrial and Infrastructure Development Corporation (DSIIDC) informed the panel that it only monitors 28 approved industrial areas, 17 of which are connected to 13 Common Effluent Treatment Plants (CETPs). The remaining 11 are not classified as water-polluting industrial areas. However, the panel noted that no data is available on unauthorized industrial units that might be discharging untreated effluents into the Yamuna. It recommended that the Delhi government conduct a comprehensive study to identify such units and strengthen pollution control measures. The panel also pointed to the failure to treat domestic sewage. According to the report, nearly 22 major drains discharge untreated sewage directly into the Yamuna. Despite significant investments under the Namami Gange Programme, the sewage treatment gap remains at approximately 1,500 million litres per day (MLD). The panel highlighted the impact of pollution on the Yamuna's ecosystem, noting that the absence of dissolved oxygen has severely affected aquatic life. Incidents of dead fish being washed ashore have been reported in Agra and Mathura. The Committee recommended that the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change conduct a study to assess the ecological damage. Moreover, the panel pointed out that bio-monitoring data from the CPCB shows that the biological water quality of the Yamuna is classified as moderate or poor in most parts of Delhi and Uttar Pradesh. Pollution from cremation activities along the riverbanks was another key concern. The panel noted that only one electric crematorium at Nigam Bodh Ghat in Delhi is operational, while most cremations are conducted using wood, contributing to river pollution. The Committee recommended financial support for state governments to set up more electric and CNG-based crematoriums and to relocate existing cremation sites away from the immediate periphery of riverbanks to prevent contamination.
IMD Weather Update: Rain Likely In Delhi-NCR Today; Check North India Forecast For Holi
Holi festivities start Thursday, with main celebrations on Friday. On the occassion of Holi, IMD forecasts rain in North India and snowfall in J&K, Himachal Pradesh, and Uttarakhand
Uttarakhand HC stays felling of 3,000 trees for road widening
A division bench of Chief Justice G Narendar and Justice Ashish Naithani was hearing a PIL filed by Dehradun resident Renu Pal
4 dead as speeding car crushes people in Dehradun; search for accused underway: Police
A speeding vehicle accident on Rajpur Road in Dehradun, Uttarakhand left four dead and two injured. The incident occurred at 8 PM, involving a suspected Mercedes. The police are tracking down the involved driver and other vehicles. The injured are stable, and further details are awaited.
Manipur police arrest 3 fraudsters posing as Amit Shahs son
Imphal: Manipur police arrested three alleged teen fraudsters from Uttarakhand and brought them to Imphal in connection with an impersonation scam targeting legislators in the state. The police team produced the accused before the Court of Chief Judicial Magistrate, Imphal West, on Wednesday. The court remanded them into judicial custody for further investigation, an official [] The post Manipur police arrest 3 fraudsters posing as Amit Shahs son appeared first on NorthEast Now .
Uttarakhand HC acquits polio-hit man of rape over flawed probe, orders Rs 5 lakh payout
Uttarakhand High Court acquitted a polio-affected man convicted of rape and ordered the state government to compensate him with Rs 5 lakh due to investigation flaws. The man, an employee at a cybercafe, had been serving a 20-year prison sentence. The court cited his physical condition making the charges questionable and found improper police investigation.
Uttarakhand HC grants bail to 22 accused in Haldwani violence
The violence took place afterthe district administration in Haldwani demolisheda madrasa and a mosque as part of an anti-encroachment drivein February last year
Leopard caught in poacher`s snare on UP-Uttarakhand border rescued after 12 hrs
As the news about the trapped animal spread, a large crowd of villagers gathered at the spot, prompting authorities to deploy police personnel
Held for impersonating Shahs son, offering CM post to Manipur MLAs, 3 men brought to Imphal
Imphal, Mar 12: Three persons, who were recently arrested from Uttarakhand for allegedly impersonating Union Home Minister Amit Shahs son and promising several Manipur MLAs the chief ministerial post in lieu of money, were brought here, police said on Wednesday. After the imposition of the Presidents rule in Manipur, several legislators had received phone calls from the three accused, who allegedly identified themselves as Shahs son Jay Shah and offered them a chief ministerial position for a sum of Rs [] The post Held for impersonating Shahs son, offering CM post to Manipur MLAs, 3 men brought to Imphal appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Crackdown on Illegal Madrasas: Uttarakhand Government Seals Over 50 Institutions In 15 Days
300 Uttarakhand Cops Storm Village In Neighbouring UP, Arrest 25 From Drug Den
Under DGP orders, SSP Mishra assembled a 300-strong team, secretly trained for an operation. Maintaining absolute discretion, they encircled the village under cover of night before executing property searches
Surreal it sounds! Uttarakhand employees deity outburst stuns state secretariat
DEHRADUN: A peculiar scene unfolded at the Secretariat on Monday as Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami arrived for the scheduled meetings. Eyewitnesses reported that unexpectedly, an employee began behaving strangely and screaming loudly, leading many to believe that he was possessed by a deity. The unexpected outburst drew attention and left onlookers in shock. In a video that has gone viral on social media, the man is seen entering the Secretariat barefoot, repeatedly shouting orders, orders! He also warned that a crisis was imminent for the CM, causing alarm among onlookers. In the Garhwal region of Uttarakhand, this phenomenon is known as Devta Ka Aavahan or Arrival of the Deity. It is a religious and cultural tradition where locals become immersed in devotion during specific prayers or rituals. During these occasions, some devotees reportedly experience divine possession, leading them to dance and shout uncontrollably. According to reports, the employee identified as Virendra Datt Bhatt, who is a driver with the secretariat, has been slapped with a penalty of over Rs 60,000 by the State Property Department. He is also facing charges related to other misconduct. A recommendation for Bhatts suspension had previously been made earlier as well, but it was not implemented. Some of his colleagues have distanced themselves from Bhatt due to his behaviour. According to sources in the secretariat, Chief Administrative Officer of the State Property Department Ravindra Pandey has recommended the suspension of Bhatt. The recommendation also includes the forced retirement of the driver due to concerns about his mental health. In the suspension letter, the Chief Administrative Officer Pandey stated that the drivers claims of divine visitation at the Secretariat appear to be a calculated strategy. Local priest Acharya Sushant Raj told this newspaper, This tradition is an important part of our local culture and is viewed with reverence and respect.
Several parts of India will experience rainfall due to two cyclonic circulations. Northern India, including Jammu Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, and Uttarakhand, will see precipitation. Eastern and northeastern states like Bihar and West Bengal will also receive heavy rain. In the south, Kerala and Tamil Nadu are forecasted to have rainfall too. This will continue until March 15.
Man steals Rs 15 lakh from brother-in-laws house in Nagpurs MIDC
Nagpur: A man has been booked by Nagpurs MIDC police for stealing Rs 15 lakh cash from his brother-in-laws house. The incident happened at Anjali Apartment in Rajendra Nagar, under the MIDC Police Station area. The accused, identified as Jyotirmoy alias Pintu Jakhmola (54), is native of Kotdwara, Uttarakhand. A case has been filed against [] The post Man steals Rs 15 lakh from brother-in-laws house in Nagpurs MIDC appeared first on Nagpur Today : Nagpur News .
UKMRC Managing Director Recruitment 2025 - Apply Offline
UKMRC Recruitment 2025 Apply Online: Uttarakhand Metro Rail Urban Infrastructure and Building Construction Corporation (UKMRC) has announced the recruitment of 01 Managing Director in 2025. Candidates With B.Tech/B.E (Relevant discipline) Can Apply Online on or before 25-03-2025.
Bill to streamline service related to immigration, foreigners introduced in Lok Sabha
NEW DELHI: The government introduced a bill seeking to streamline various services related to immigration and foreigners, including their entry, exit and stay in the country, in the Lok Sabha on Tuesday. Rejecting suggestions that Parliament lacked the legislative competence to bring the Immigration and Foreigners Bill, 2025, Minister of State for Home Affair Nityanand Rai said the central government has all the rights under the Union list to bring legislations on the subject. He said that once the bill is passed, it would replace existing laws including the Passport (Entry into India) Act, 1920, the Registration of Foreigners Act, 1939, the Foreigners Act, 1946, and the Immigration (Carriers Liability) Act, 2000. The objective of the draft bill is to enhance national security, control immigration procedures, and introduce stricter penalties on foreigners, who violate entry and stay conditions, the minister said. The draft bill also mentions that any foreigner posing a threat to national security, sovereignty or the integrity of the nation will not be allowed into the country or will be denied the permission to stay in India. It further mandates registration for foreigners upon arrival, restricting their movement, name changes, and access to protected and restricted areas. Educational institutions, hospitals and nursing homes will have to report of foreign nationals to immigration authorities, it added. According to the draft bill, violations will attract heavy penalties. Arriving in India without a valid passport or visa may attract imprisonment of up to five years and a fine of up to Rs 5 lakh. Foreigners using forged documents could face a jail term of two to seven years, with fines ranging from Rs 1 lakh to Rs 10 lakh, it read. More to those overstaying, violating visa conditions or trespassing in restricted areas could also result in three years imprisonment and fine of up to Rs 3 lakh. Transport carriers carrying foreigners without valid documents will be held liable and can be fined up to Rs 5 lakh. It could also lead to potential seizure of their transport if penalties are not paid. If a foreigner is denied entry, the carrier will be responsible for their immediate removal from India. The bill also gives authority to immigration officers to arrest individuals without a warrant and empowers the central government to regulate the movement of foreigners. Further, it also has provisions to disallow a person from leaving the country, if his or her presence is required by any of the investigative or enforcement agencies. Opposing the bill at the introduction stage, Manish Tewari (Congress) said the bill is violative of multiple provisions of the Constitution and various laws. He said the bill violates the principle of fundamental rights and the government may use the provisions of the proposed law to deny entry to those who are not in sync with the ideology of the ruling dispensation of the day. Saugata Roy of the TMC said the proposed law could prevent inflow of talent from outside in various fields. In his remarks before formally introducing the bill, Rai said the draft law seeks to correct overlapping and duplicate provisions in prevailing laws governing immigration and foreigners in the country. The entry, stay and exit of foreigners from India are currently governed by the Registration of Foreigners Act, 1939, and the Foreigners Act, 1946. While Indian visas of all categories to foreigners can be granted in physical or sticker form by Indian missions or posts located abroad, the Bureau of Immigration (BoI) grants electronic visas under seven categories to people from 167 countries. Besides, visa-on-arrival is granted by immigration authorities at six designated airports to nationals of three countries -- Japan, South Korea and the UAE (only for such UAE nationals who had earlier obtained e-visa or regular or paper visa for India). The stay and movement of foreigners in India and their exit are regulated by the BoI, state governments and Union Territory administrations. According to existing laws, all foreigners on long-term (more than 180 days) visas are required to register with the Foreigners Regional Registration Officer (FRRO) or the Foreigners Registration Officer (FRO) concerned, having jurisdiction over the place where the foreigner intends to stay, within 14 days of arrival. Pakistani nationals are required to register within 24 hours of their arrival. Other laws that cover foreigners in India include the Citizenship Act, 1955, which regulates acquisition and termination of Indian citizenship as well as acquisition and registration of foreigners as Overseas Citizens of India (OCI). The Passports Act, 1967, provides for the issue of passports and travel documents to regulate departure from India of citizens of India and other persons, and the Immigration (Carriers' Liability) Act, 2000, that makes carriers liable in respect of passengers brought by them into India in contravention of provisions of the Passport Act. Apart from movement, stay and visa, there are certain protected areas in India where foreigners need special permits to travel, including multiple states in the northeastern region, the whole of Andaman and Nicobar, and parts of Jammu and Kashmir, Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh and Rajasthan. According to Union Home Ministry data, a total of 98,40,321 (98.40 lakh) foreigners visited India between April 1, 2023, and March 31, 2024. (With inputs from PTI)
7 best destinations in Uttarakhand for a quick March getaway
March is the perfect time to explore Uttarakhands scenic beauty, pleasant weather, and tranquil landscapes. Whether you seek adventure, relaxation, or natures charm, these seven destinations offer a refreshing escape from routine life, making your short trip truly memorable.
Video: Dramatic Rescue Of Woman Who Jumped Into Canal In Uttarakhand
On camera, two policemen jump in and pull a drowning woman to safety.
UKPSC Lecturer & Assistant Research Officer 2024 Admit Card OUT for 526 Posts
Uttarakhand Public Service Commission (UKPSC) has Recruits 526 Lecturer & Assistant Research Officer Posts. Candidates with Degree, PG (Relevant Discipline) can Apply Online from 23-07-2024 to 12-08-2024.
UKPSC Polytechnic Lecturer Admit Card 2025 OUT psc.uk.gov.in
Uttarakhand Public Service Commission has officially released the UKPSC Polytechnic Lecturer Admit Card 2025. Candidates who have applied for the Polytechnic Lecturer Exam can now download their admit card from the official website psc.uk.gov.in.
Chardham Yatra 2025: Heading To Badrinath-Kedarnath? Don't Expect VIP Or VVIP Darshan Anymore
The Chardham Yatra in Uttarakhand will begin soon with no VIP darshan allowed this year. The Badrinath Dham opens on May 4, Kedarnath on May 2, and Gangotri and Yamunotri on April 30
INTERVIEW| Multi-pronged approach needed to manage man-animal conflict, says Meenakshi Negi
The reasons for man-elephant conflict are many, including the presence of weeds and shrinking forest boundaries. The list could include highly palatable food crops grown on forest fringes, which are like rasagullas for elephants, while the fodder inside is like ragi mudde, said Principal Chief Conservator of Forests, Head of Forest Force (HOFF), Meenakshi Negi. In an interaction with The New Indian Express , she spoke about her journey and challenges ahead as the head of the state forest force. Tell us about your journey. You are the second woman in India to be the HOFF, after Maharashtra, and the first ever in Karnataka. I am from Mussoorie, Uttarakhand. After getting selected to the Karnataka cadre, I joined the state in December 1992. I worked in Karnataka till August 2007. Till 2015, I was posted to the Ministry of Ayush with the Government of India. From 2015-23, I was posted in various departments in the Karnataka forest department, and from 2023 till recently I was posted in Delhi before I came back, when I was selected as HOFF in Karnataka. Was gender a concern when you joined the forest service? Entry of women into the Indian Forest Service started in 1980s. I am from the 1989 batch. Prior to me were two women officers. I was the third or fourth woman officer to join the state. Sometimes situations were comical back then. We joined as young girls and the established forest bureaucracy did not know how to treat us, or where to post us. Whether we will be able to go on night patrol, climb mountains, go into forests and face wildlife. There was a lot of hesitation and uncertainty among them. Slowly people accepted us and we made a place for ourselves. They understood that when women get into a job they bring their own, yet different, perspective. Today we are getting more women in the force. What attracted you to the Forest department? I had studied Zoology. My maternal grandfather was in the Forest department in the administration section. He pushed me into it. I was qualified for forest and other civil services, and I chose forest. How many hectares of forest land are vulnerable to fire? Determining the exact number of hectares of fire-prone land is difficult, but drier regions and transition belts are particularly vulnerable. While fire is a natural process that helps stronger vegetation thrive, increasing human pressure due to development, population growth and forest fragmentation has made fires more frequent and destructive. Most fires are human-induced, either accidentally or deliberately. How can exploitation of medicinal plants and minor forest produce be controlled? Medicinal plant conservation is a complex issue involving both scientific and social aspects. Ayurveda and traditional systems rely on classical formulations where only designated plant parts are used. Currently, over 80% of medicinal plants are sourced from forests. Despite the governments efforts to promote cultivation, large-scale extraction continues. Biodiversity Management Committees (BMCs) are responsible for oversight but lack capacity. With hundreds of species being exploited, strengthening BMCs and training local authorities is crucial for sustainable harvesting and conservation. What is the success rate of afforestation programme? Studies show it is around 72%. We are doing away with exotic species like eucalyptus and acacia and replacing them with indigenous species. This is also one of the ways to keep elephants within forests. The nature of forests cannot be changed by growing sugarcane or banana inside. We go for species that always existed in forests like bamboo, kada mavu (forest mango), jackfruit etc. Do weeds pose problems to forests? They do. They are widely seen in Bandipur and Nagarahole and other forest patches. Uprooting lantana is a big problem as once we uproot, it grows back. It has to be continuously uprooted for four or five years to get completely rid of it. We cannot leave forest land empty as the soil gets washed away. We have to plant some type of grasses. With the limited resources we have, we are doing our best to keep weeds away. What about involving the local communities? We are roping in local communities to make products out of weeds, and give them livelihood. This kind of model is sustainable and drives the economy. We need trained labour and a market but at the same time the products have to be of good quality. They have to get an assured market, like for instance, directing all government offices to get dustbins made out of the weeds. How is ISROs technology helping forest department? It helps us in a big way. With the help of satellite images, we can pinpoint trees and even know if a tree is missing. We have satellite images from 1990s. We can look at how forest land is changing, year on year, or even on monthly basis. This helps in guarding forest boundaries. Going forward as technology improves, we will have species-wise information. We need to improve in tracking medical herbs, as they are endangered. Should Karnatakas sandalwood tree be geo-tagged ? Karnataka is a blessed land where sandalwood trees grow like weeds. We need not geo-tag all sandalwood trees in Karnataka, as the state government deregulated sandalwood trees, relaxing felling permission. Cases of man-elephant conflict is rising. What are the reasons and what is being done to control it? Elephant population is increasing. With over 6,500 elephants, Karnataka is leading in elephant numbers. Some reports suggest that elephants are venturing out of forests due to a lack of food and water, but there are many other factors. For example, for elephants, fodder in forests is like ragi mudde (finger millet balls). Outside they find highly palatable crops like sugarcane, paddy and maize which are like rasagulla for them. Naturally, they prefer these. Thus, a multi-pronged strategy is necessary to manage things. Simply restricting their movement is not enough. Karnataka is pioneering in elephant conservation by installing rail barricades. What about farmers growing alternative crops? They need to be encouraged to grow alternative crops. In some areas on the boundaries of Bandipur Tiger Reserve, farmers have started cultivating chia seeds. Elephants do not like these crops and tend to avoid them. Chia seeds require less water and are economically beneficial for farmers. Recently, the forest minister and department officials visited Hassan to meet families affected by elephant attacks. Many solutions were discussed in areas like Belur and Sakleshpur, including selling land to the government to create wildlife corridors that connect fragmented forest areas. What is the status of poaching in Karnataka? Poaching incidents have significantly declined in Karnataka. While poaching of large animals has decreased, illegal hunting for bushmeat remains a concern. Continuous monitoring and ground-level enforcement are necessary to tackle this issue. The department is using drone surveillance and satellite imagery. What is the extent of encroachment of forest land in Karnataka? It is difficult to say how much land is encroached. Some of the land was granted to people. There is also out and out encroachment, like if a grant is two acres, people take five acres. As per the Supreme Court, encroachment prior to 1978 must be identified. Encroachment should be cleared and we are looking into all these issues. How is the forest department getting tech upgraded? The department has collaborated with the Karnataka State Remote Sensing Agency. The department has its own ICT lab at Aranya Bhavan to monitor satellite images, including GIS- based tracking of forest land and wildlife movement. There is also an alert system for farmers and those in coffee estates, where alerts on elephant movement are sent through text messages. What was your role as you were in the National Commission for Women? I was member secretary of the National Commission For Women for two years. We did several things, we basically looked at womens grievances. We did seminars and rehab work. Since I am a forester, when I was in Maharashtra during an interaction, a woman from an NGO in Maharashtra, who was working on water hyacinth, said she suffered labour shortage. We said we would help and involved women prisoners. We started similar programmes in Bhopal and Nagpur prisons. The prisoners were trained and business was successful. Here she got productive disciplined labour. Women prisoners were happy doing worthwhile work and getting money for it in their bank accounts. Will you involve prisoners in deweeding lantana? I have visited prisons in many states from NCW, including Bengaluru Central Prison. Now I will talk to the Prisons department and rope in Soliga communities working in BRT Tiger Reserve. Tribal relocation is a major concern. How is the department looking at it? There are two or three things. One is people voluntarily coming out like what is happening in Kali Tiger Reserve. There are areas where people are not willing to go out but programmes can be intensified with better package options. The third is the moment the government buys land, prices rise and people dont sell. People cant be forced to come out. Voluntary relocation in Karnataka has been a case study by itself and I am going to publish a paper on it. What about coffee plantations? In coffee plantations, they dont want to move out as it is a livelihood for them. But for an elephant, it is a forest. Historically, forests were given to people for growing coffee. Over a period of time, there is a bit of blurring of boundaries. What is the forest department doing to inspire young minds in forest conservation? There is a programme for children called Chinnara Vana Darshana. We take them on forest trips and tell them about forest activities. There is a YouTube programme called Hasiru Honnu. As children already have enough to study, rather than putting it into a curriculum, it has to be an activity. We should be doing things which children can see. Every family has a car and that is what children are looking at. They are exposed to consumerism and if we expect them to become environmentalists by reading books, it is not going to happen. You worked with Ayush in Karnataka during the pandemic and have expertise in medicinal plants. How did this knowledge contribute to Covid-19 management? During my deputation in the Ministry of Health, I handled Ayush education, drug regulation, and awareness. Upon returning to Karnataka, I was appointed Commissioner, Ayush, serving for nearly three years, including during the pandemic. With a shortage of medical resources, we converted Ayurvedic hospitals into Covid care centres for mild cases. To manage rising numbers, we launched the Aapta Mitra helpline, a PPP model where companies provided call centres and free food. Ayurveda and Homeopathy students manned the helpline, triaging cases and directing care. We also distributed immunity boosters through Ayush hospitals.
LS Speaker Birla releases book on former Uttarakhand CM Koshiyari
NEW DELHI, Mar 9: Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla on Sunday hailed former Uttarakhand Chief Minister Bhagat Singh Koshyari for his work on the development of the hill state, preservation of forests, and the safeguarding of natural resources. Birla made these remarks at a function at the Indira Gandhi National Centre for Arts (IGNCA) to release a book, Parvat Shiromani Bhagat Singh Koshyari, authored by Madan Mohan Sati. Koshiyari, who also served as the Governor of Goa and Maharashtra, devoted [] The post LS Speaker Birla releases book on former Uttarakhand CM Koshiyari appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
No action on scribe held for social media post, rules HC
The Uttarakhand high court has prevented police from taking coercive actions against journalist Sudhanshu Thapliyal, who was detained for a Facebook post criticizing the lack of arrests in a fatal accident case. Thapliyal stressed his duty to highlight injustices. Journalists and associations condemned his detention, calling for an impartial investigation into the arrest.
Tiger kills woman in Uttarakhands Pauri district
Dehradun: A 55-year-old woman was mauled to death by a tiger in the Nainidanda area of Uttarakhands Pauri district, an official said on Sunday. The incident took place on Saturday afternoon in Jamun village under Mandal range. Guddi Devi Bhadula had gone to work in her field near the forest when a tiger suddenly attacked []
CM Pushkar Singh Dhami inaugurates development projects worth Rs 110 crore in Kashipur
Uttarakhand CM Pushkar Singh Dhami inaugurated 19 development initiatives worth Rs 110.56 crore in Kashipur, including road projects, municipal buildings, and a sewage treatment plant. He also emphasized support for infrastructure improvement, economic growth, self-employment schemes, and highlighted government's accomplishments in various sectors.
Brahmin community in Dehradun condemns plans for Kedarnath-inspired temple in Etawah
DEHRADUN: The Brahmin community in Dehradun has strongly opposed former Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Akhilesh Yadav's proposal to build a temple in Etawah modeled after the Kedarnath Jyotirlinga. The Brahmin Samaj Mahasangh expressed its discontent by submitting a memorandum to Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami, through the city magistrate of Dehradun, demanding immediate action against those attempting to replicate the revered Kedarnath temple. An official from the society stated, This is an insult to Lord Kedarnath and a blow to religious sentiments. The Brahmin Samaj Mahasangh officials also recalled a similar incident in Burari, Delhi, where the foundation stone for a temple named Shri Kedarnath Dham was laid, but the project was later halted due to community objections. Speaking to The New Indian Express (TNIE), Pandit Lalchand Sharma, patron of the Brahmin Samaj Mahasangh, said, Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami had already announced a firm stance on such matters. His government has decided in the cabinet that no new temples or trusts can be established anywhere in the country under the names of the four sacred shrines: Kedarnath, Badrinath, Gangotri, and Yamunotri. In their written protest to the government, Mahasangh officials made it clear: The Uttarakhand government had promised that if anyone attempts to construct a replica of the Kedarnath temple or any of the four sacred shrines, strict legal action will be taken. A similar case occurred in Burari, Delhi, where a temple was inaugurated under the name 'Shri Kedarnath Dham.' The trust there collected donations using this name, which faced strong opposition from temple priests, saints, and local residents. Lalchand Sharma further emphasised, Badrinath, Kedarnath, Yamunotri, and Gangotri are sacred shrines of immense significance for millions of Sanatani Hindus, not just in Uttarakhand but across the world. The residents of Devbhoomi will not tolerate any attempts by individuals or organizations seeking to gain commercial benefits by replicating these holy sites. He also highlighted that the Uttarakhand government has already implemented strict regulations prohibiting the establishment of temples or organizations under the names of the four sacred shrines, as well as the use of similar naming conventions.
Holi 2025: The many names, traditions, and rituals that make Indias festival of colours so special
Holi 2025: Holi, the festival of colors, is celebrated across India with various traditions and names. From bonfires in North India to artistic celebrations in the East, and musical festivities in Uttarakhand and Tamil Nadu, each region brings its unique touch. Delicious sweets like Gujiya and festive drinks like Thandai enhance the celebrations.
DEHRADUN: The Uttarakhand Waqf Board has imposed a complete ban on the admission of children from other states into the Madrassas of Uttarakhand. Starting now, classes in the modern madrassas will commence with the national anthem, and students will not only study science but also learn about the ideals of Lord Ram and Lord Krishna. In a notable initiative, the first Dr A P J Abdul Kalam Modern Madrasa will be established in the Muslim locality adjacent to Dehradun railway station. The government has officially approved the operation of this modern madrasa. Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami emphasized the importance of this project, stating, The establishment of the modern madrasa is part of my dream project to ensure that Muslim students receive better education. Speaking to TNIE, Shadab Shams, the Chairman of the Uttrakhand Waqf Board, stated, In April, the first madrassa named after former President Dr A P J Abdul Kalam will be inaugurated in Dehradun, followed by the elevation of 117 madrassas by the Waqf Board. Board Chairman Shams emphasised the organization's commitment to integrating Muslim students into the mainstream and fostering a sense of patriotism. He declared, We have resolved to move away from extremism and connect our students with the core values of our nation. The aim is to introduce students at modern madrassas to the ideals of Shri Guru Nanak Dev, Jesus Christ, and Prophet Muhammad through a curriculum aligned with the NCERT syllabus, said Chairman Shams. He added, Our goal is to ensure that the children studying in our madrassas open their eyes to these teachings and become good Indian citizens. Chairman Shams further emphasised, Just as madrassas in POK are known as hubs of terrorism, our madrassas will be based on the principles of nationalism, which we are developing as part of the Dhami model. According to sources, the modern madrasa will offer science curriculum from 8 AM to 12 PM. Quranic education will be provided after 2 PM. Former soldiers assigned to the madrasa will conduct training for the national anthem to promote physical fitness. Additionally, efforts will be made to instill a sense of patriotism among the students. Popularly known as the Land of the Gods, Uttarakhand is witnessing a tightening of the Hindutva agenda, and this new regulation signifies a shift in the educational framework within the state.
Uttarakhand seals 11 madrasas during Ramzan, sparks protests
In a week-long crackdown, Uttarakhands Dehradun Development Authority (MDDA) has reportedly sealed 11 madrasas (Muslim educational institutions), citing legal violations. Officials asserted that the sealed madrasas, including Madarsa Jamia Islamia Noor Ul Huda, were not registered with the state Madrasa Board or the Education Department. The move has sparked widespread protests and condemnation from Muslim 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 .
Media bodies condemn arrest of journalist in Uttarakhand
They have demanded concrete measures to ensure the safety and protection of journalists in Uttarakhand, including withdrawal of the false cases registered against journalist Sudhanshu Thapliyal
The International Yoga Festival in Rishikesh, Uttarakhand, saw global participation, concluding with recognition of yoga's benefits and various tourism initiatives announced by Satpal Maharaj. Thousands of yoga proponents participated, highlighting Rishikeshs role as a spiritual epicenter. Renowned yoga instructors were honored for their contributions.
Elderly Woman, Grandson Charred To Death After House Fire In Uttarakhand's Chamoli
The 80-year-old woman and her 10-year-old grandson were sleeping in the room where the fire broke out and burnt to death.
Mayawati slams Uttarakhand government for sealing madrasas in Dehradun
Lucknow: BSP chief Mayawati on Friday criticised the Uttarakhand government over the sealing of madrasas in Dehradun, saying government must refrain from such prejudiced and non-secular moves that hurt religious sentiments. Her remarks came after 15 madrasas in Dehradun district were sealed following the district administrations order to launch a crackdown on seminaries running without 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 .
24-Hour Avalanche Warning For Uttarakhand, Week After 8 Killed In Chamoli
A 24-hour avalanche warning has been issued for areas over 3,000 metres from sea level in Chamoli, Rudraprayag, and Pithogarh districts of Uttarakhand.
UKPSC Group C Recruitment 2025 - Apply Online for 613 Posts
Uttarakhand Public Service Commission (UKPSC) has recruits 613 Group C Posts. Candidates With Any Graduate, B.Ed, Diploma, Any Post Graduate Can Apply Online from 06-03-2025 to 12-03-2025.
UKSSSC Assistant Teacher 2024 Result Released
Uttarakhand Subordinate Service Selection Commission (UKSSSC) has Released Written Exam Answer Key for the Post of Assistant Teacher LT 2024.
PM Modi bats for Uttarakhand tourism, appeals to people to visit in winter
Prime Minister Narendra Modi promoted Uttarakhand's winter tourism, urging pilgrims, tourists, corporate professionals, and the film industry to visit the state during the winter season. He highlighted the potential benefits to the state's economy and announced several infrastructure projects, including ropeways for Kedarnath and Hemkund Sahib.
Modi Offers Prayers at Goddess Ganga's Winter Abode in Uttarakhand
Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited the Mukhwa temple in Uttarakhand, the winter abode of Goddess Ganga, and offered prayers. The visit is expected to boost winter pilgrimage and tourism in the state. Modi also flagged off a trek and bike rally and addressed a public meeting in Harshil. This comes a day after the Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs approved two major ropeway projects to Kedarnath and Hemkund Sahib worth over Rs 6,000 crore.
PM Modi has forgotten his guarantee of cleaning Ganga, his govt only cheated Maa Ganga: Kharge
New Delhi, Mar 6: Hours after Prime Minister Narendra Modi offered prayers at the winter abode of Goddess Ganga in Uttarakhand, Congress chief Mallikarjur Kharge took a swipe at him on Thursday, saying the government has only cheated Maa Ganga in the name of cleaning the river. Modi offered prayers at Mukhwa temple in Uttarkashi district in the morning. Mukhwa is located on the way to the Gangotri temple dedicated to Goddess Ganga. Her idol is moved to Mukhwa temple [] The post PM Modi has forgotten his guarantee of cleaning Ganga, his govt only cheated Maa Ganga: Kharge appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
PM Modi calls for boosting year-round tourism in Uttarakhand, says it will boost economy
HARSIL: Making a strong pitch for round the year tourism in Uttarakhand, Prime Minister Narendra Modi Thursday said there should be no off-season in the picturesque hill state and this would strengthen its economy in a big way. Addressing a rally in Harsil after offering prayers at the village of Mukhwa, the winter abode of Goddess Ganga in Uttarkashi district, he said visitors will get the true flavour of Uttarakhand if they come to the state in winter. When fog envelops the rest of the country during winter, the state is bathed in sunlight, Modi said as he coined a new termGhaam Tapo Paryatan (soak the sun tourism)in Garhwali language for winter tourism in the state. Praising the state government for its 12-month tourism vision, he stressed the need for a 360-degree approach to tourism to create employment opportunities for the local youth throughout the year. After doing business in summer, hotels, resorts and homestays in the hills of Uttarakhand become empty during winter, slowing down its economy, Modi said. Tourism should be on in all seasons, there should be no off-season, the prime minister said, adding winter tourism will help Uttarakhand realise its full economic potential. Uttarakhand's unique cultural features such as its traditional dance and music, cuisine and hot springs can be showcased, he suggested. Modi said he feels blessed to visit Goddess Ganga's winter abode in Mukhwa. I think Maa Ganga has adopted me. It is her blessings that took me to Kashi and gave me an opportunity to serve the people, the prime minister said. He also expressed grief at the death of eight workers in the recent avalanche at a Border Roads Organisation camp in Chamoli district's Mana village. The prime minister flagged off a trek and bike journey to the predominantly tribal village of Jadung from Harshil and said it is to help the border areas of Uttarakhand reap the benefits of tourism. We haven't forgotten that border village Jadung was evacuated during the 1962 India-China war and efforts are being made to turn such villages habitable, he said at the public meeting in Harsil. Speaking of the two major ropeway projects cleared for the state by the Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) headed by him, Modi said the ropeway to Kedarnath will reduce the eight-nine hour journey to just 30 minutes. The CCEA on Wednesday approved two major ropeway projects to Kedarnath and Hemkund Sahib worth over Rs 6,000 crore. In a bid to promote religious tourism and boost the local economy, the Uttarakhand government has initiated a Winter Tourism programme this year. In the new budget, provisions have been made for developing 50 new tourist destinations, the prime minister told the gathering in Harsil. Modi appealed to people to make Uttarakhand their destination for weddings and asked filmmakers to shoot their movies in the hill state which has been awarded for being the most film-friendly. Content creators and social media influencers should make short films on winter tourism destinations in Uttarakhand and the best works should be awarded, the prime minister said, adding it will go a long way in promoting winter tourism in the state. He also asked corporate houses to organise their conferences and seminars in Uttarakhand. Winter tourism is prevalent in many countries. People in the tourism sector should study how it is conducted in those countries and apply those in Uttarakhand, the prime minister said. Before reaching Harsil, Modi offered prayers at Mukhwa templethe winter abode of Goddess Ganga in Uttarkashi districtamid chanting of Vedic hymns by the priests. The locals, dressed in traditional attire, accorded a warm welcome to the prime minister through a dance performance circling him as Modi stood in the middle with folded hands. He also enjoyed the morning view of the distant snowclad peaks surrounding the area. Mukhwa is located on the way to the Gangotri temple dedicated to Goddess Ganga. Her idol is moved to Mukhwa temple from Gangotri Dham every year after the closure of its gates for winter. This was Prime Minister Modi's second visit to Uttarakhand this year. Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami extended a warm welcome to the prime minister in a post on X. A hearty welcome and greetings to the prime minister on his visit to Devbhoomi Uttarakhand, the sacred land of religion, spiritualism and sacrifice. Residents of the state are excited to receive the prime minister in Mukhwa-Harsil, a land full of spiritual and natural beauty, he said. Certainly, this winter trip of yours will give new dimensions to the cultural, spiritual and tourism development of our state, Dhami said and hoped that Modi's visit would put Mukhwa on the global tourism map. Later, speaking at the public meeting in Harsil the Chief Minister said Modi is the first Prime Minister to set his foot in the border village.
PM Modi Pitches For Year-Round Tourism In Uttarakhand To Boost Economy
Modi also drew attention towards the two ropeway projects approved by the Union Cabinet on Wednesday.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi introduced a campaign to rehabilitate two Uttarkashi villages evacuated during the 1962 India-China war, aiming to transform them into tourist attractions. He emphasized the importance of border villages and mentioned ongoing infrastructure projects in Uttarakhand to boost tourism and development.
Uttarakhand receives central recognition over rural development schemes
Uttarakhand has excelled in numerous rural development schemes, including DAY-NRLM, DDU-GKY, MGNREGA, PMGSY, and PMAY. The state received recognition, additional targets, and increased allocations for future projects, highlighting significant progress in skill development, employment, infrastructure, and housing initiatives. These efforts have improved living standards and encouraged further development.
PM Modi pitches for round the year tourism in Uttarakhand, says it will boost economy
Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasized the significance of year-round tourism in Uttarakhand to boost the state's economy and create jobs. Highlighting new ropeway projects in Kedarnath and Hemkund Sahib Ji, Modi encouraged winter visits, stressing the region's unique winter charm and a comprehensive approach to tourism.
PM Modi pitches for round the year tourism in Uttarakhand
A 360-degree approach to tourism is needed to boost Uttarakhands economy, says PM Modi
PM Modi offers prayers to Maa Ganga in Uttarakhand's Mukhwa; enjoys stunning beauty of mountains
PM Modi In Uttarakhand | Prime Minister Narendra Modi Arrives in Uttarakhand | Breaking News
| 's big winter tourism push in Uttarakhand; flags off bike and trek rally.CM Pushkar Singh Dhami is also present.@AmanKayamHai_ @kritsween n18oc_breaking-newsNews18 Mobile App - https://onelink.to/desc-youtube
