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Telangana to get projects worth Rs two lakh crore in two years: Union Minister Gadkari

HYDERABAD: Union Road Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari has said that the Centre is committed to the development of Telangana. Addressing a meeting after inaugurating the Amberpet flyover here on Monday, he said that national highway projects worth Rs 1.25 lakh crore are either ongoing or completed and projects worth over Rs 2 lakh crore will be initiated in the state over the next two years. In 2014, there were 2,511 km of national highways in Telangana and over the past 10 years, this has increased to around 5,000 km. The Union minister said, Hyderabad is an industrial city and connectivity to it is of utmost importance. It is also a knowledge city and the conversion of knowledge into wealth is the future of our country. Hyderabad city is becoming congested. I saw in Spain that 3,000 to 4,000 cars were parked underground by constructing tunnels. I request the state government to adopt such technology, Gadkari said. He stated that, in order to improve connectivity between Hyderabad and other cities within the state, the central government has decided to construct access-controlled highways. With this, it will be possible to reach Hyderabad from any city in the state within a maximum of five hours. He announced that tenders for the four-laning of the Hyderabad to Dindi stretch will be invited soon. He further said that construction of the northern part of the Regional Ring Road will commence soon after the Cabinet approval. Studies are underway regarding the southern part and the central government will take a positive decision after they are completed, he added. He announced that construction of the Multi-Modal Logistics Park being developed at Manoharabad, near Hyderabad, will begin shortly. We are constructing the HyderabadIndore corridor at a cost of `17,000 crore. Work is almost complete in Telangana. A 136-km stretch passes through Kamareddy, Medak and Sangareddy districts. This project will cut travel time between Indore and Hyderabad from 20 hours to 10, he said. Meanwhile, the Union minister said: It used to take 3.5 hours to travel from Manali to Rohtang Pass. After constructing the Atal Tunnel, the travel time has reduced to just 8 minutes. From Rohtang to Ladakh and Leh, we are constructing eight tunnels in the Himalayas. From Srinagar to Jammu, we are building 36 tunnels of which 23 have been completed. Union Coal & Mines Minister G Kishan Reddy and Telangana Roads & Buildings Minister Komatireddy Venkat Reddy were present on the occasion. Telangana sets ball rolling on Regional Ring Road REVANTH ASKS GADKARI TO EXPEDITE APPROVAL FOR NORTHERN PART OF REGIONAL RING ROAD HYDERABAD: Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy has requested Union Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari to accord administrative and financial approval for northern part of the Regional Ring Road. He met the Union minister at Begumpet airport on Monday and discussed various projects. Revanth Reddy informed Gadkari that tenders were already invited for the construction of northern part of RRR and sought the Centres cooperation to ensure simultaneous completion of northern and southern parts of the RRR. He also wanted Gadkari to sanction at the earliest for an elevator corridor from Mannanur to Srisailam on NH 765 and Hyderabad to Amaravati greenfield expressway. He stressed the need to construct radial roads to connect ORR and RRR. The CM also requested Gadkari to release funds for Hyderabad-Dindi-Mannanur and Hyderabad-Mancherial greenfield highways and ORR to Manneguda radial road. PONNAM WRITES TO CENTRE ON CONVERSION OF RAJIV RAHADARI INTO 8-LANE ROAD KARIMNAGAR: Transport and BC Welfare Minister Ponnam Prabhakar wrote to Nitin Gadkari, seeking the expansion of Rajiv Rahadari into an eight-lane road from Hyderabad to Karimnagar and Ramagundam. He said that the road connecting key cities is insufficient to handle the increasing traffic. Responding to the letter, Union minister Bandi Sanjay Kumar, who accompanied Gadkari in Kumurambheem district, stated that Rajiv Rahadari is in a poor condition due to substandard construction quality. He announced that the central government is prepared to expand the Rajiv Rahadari into a national highway, citing a promise from Nitin Gadkari. However, the minister pointed out that certain issues related to the road need to be addressed and the responsibility for resolving these problems by engaging with the contractor lies with the state government. He urged minister Komatireddy Venkat Reddy to take initiative in this matter.

The New Indian Express 6 May 2025 9:43 am

Ladakh is safe for travel, says Hill Council following unsafe rumours

Following concerns about security after the Pahalgam attack, Ladakh officials assure tourists that the region is safe for travel, urging them to disregard misinformation. LAHDC Leh is committed to promoting tourism and ensuring visitor well-being. Efforts are underway to expedite the reopening of the Leh-Manali road, addressing a key request from tour operators.

The Times of India 4 May 2025 12:22 am

Tourists cancel Kashmir bookings, shift to Himachal after Pahalgam attack fallout

CHANDIGARH: Tourists now prefer vacationing in Himachal Pradesh over Jammu and Kashmir after the Pahalgam terror attack in which 26 persons were killed. Approximately 15-20% of both domestic and international bookings have shifted from Kashmir to Himachal's popular destinations including Manali, Shimla and Dharamshala; however, the surge in footfall is not as expected as tourists have adopted a 'wait-and-watch' policy amid prevailing uncertainties and hostilities between India and Pakistan. Ashwani Bamba, president of the Hotel and Restaurant Association of Kangra, told TNIE that, after the terror attack, tour operators and potential tourists inquired for booking in Himachal and Uttarakhand and that they expected the surge to be significant. But, actually only 15-20% of tourists shifted from J&K to Himachal and the rest probably prefer to not venture out during this summer season owing to the escalating tensions between India and Pakistan. Thus, the occupancy of hotels across the state at present is around 40% only, the same as last year. Bookings that were shifted were that of tourist groups traveling from Maharashtra, Gujarat and other states, not the immediate bookings in Kashmir which had gotten cancelled, he said. Bamba added that, in Himachal, Manali had the maximum number of shifted bookings at about 20%, while Dharamsala, Dalhousir and Shimla had much fewer. He said that advance bookings had already been made for the IPL matches in Dharamsala. Kashmir tourism stumbles after Pahalgam terror attack, but industry leaders remain hopeful Mohinder Seth, president of Himachal Pradesh Tourism Stakeholders Association, said that tourists are adopting a wait and watch policy due to India-Pakistan tensions. On everyone's mind, there is only one question: What will the Union government do in the coming days? The common is just waiting for that. There were a lot of inquiries after the unfortunate incident as people got diverted from the Kashmir Valley, but the actual number of bookings are very less. In May, generally, there is about 30-40% occupancy across the state, after May 15 we are expecting that it may touch 60-70% as advance bookings are already been done, he said. This tragedy not only upended the tourism sector in Kashmir, but has also impacted the neighboring states of Himachal and Uttarakhand. Ex-President of Manali Hotel Association Mukesh Thakur said that after terror attack there was lot of expectation that the tourist rush will shift to Himachal and lot of queries had also come. But the number of booking which are less as, first, the tourists have to get their booking cancelled and take a refund and then again they will think where to go. Already as predicted that the summers will be hot this year so already there are lot of booking done in advance as far as Manali is concerned. At present around 30-40% occupancy in the hotels here and after May 15 as summer intensifies the occupancy is expected to touch more than 80% as already people have booked. Also is expected that in coming days more online bookings will be done. The tourism industry contributes 7.78 per cent to the GDP of the hill state. As per the Economic Survey report for Himachal Pradesh for 2024-25, the number of domestic visitors increased to 1.8 crore in 2024 from 56.32 lakh in 2021 while the surge in foreign tourists was 83,000 in 2024 from 5000 in 2021. On the other hand the tourism industry contributes 7.2 per cent to the GDP of Jammu and Kashmir.

The New Indian Express 3 May 2025 2:48 pm

NGT slams GCC over defunct Manali waste plant

The Times of India 2 May 2025 11:34 pm

6 offbeat adventures in Manali youve probably never tried

The Economic Times 1 May 2025 2:17 pm

Notification of 338 vending, non-vending zones in Chennai gets council nod

CHENNAI: The corporation Council has approved the notification of 150 vending zones and 188 non-vending zones, totalling 338, spread across the 15 administrative zones of the city. Royapuram Zone has the highest number of vending zones at 26, followed by Manali (Zone 2) with 19 zones and Thiru. Vi. Ka. Nagar (Zone 6) with 18 zones. Thiru Vi Ka Nagar also leads in the number of non-vending zones, with a total of 45. In contrast, Sholinganallur (Zone 15) and Perungudi (Zone 14) have relatively fewer vending zones, with only two and three respectively. However, the zones have a higher number of non-vending zones, with 15 and 16, respectively. Some of the streets in which vending zones are marked include TNPSC Road, Pantheon Lane, MH Road, Ormes Road and Sivanthi Adithanar Road among others. As per the corporations standard operating procedure, no vending will be allowed within 100 metres of educational institutions. Additionally, 22 roads, previously declared as No Parking zones by the police, have been designated as non-vending zones. Signboards will be installed in all vending and non-vending zones and vending zones will be clearly demarcated. The size of the shops located in vending zones will be 6x4 feet, with a two-foot space between stalls. The guidelines for designating vending and non-vending zones state that a road must be at least 5 feet wide to allow vending on one side, and 10 metres wide for vending on both sides. Vending is prohibited within 100 to 150 metres around key public spaces such as railway stations, temples, parks, large markets, courts, fire stations, and important government offices. These zones were declared by the 14-member Town Vending Committee, headed by the Chennai Corporation Commissioner, which was formed on August 7, 2023. Four meetings of the committee were held between September 2024 and March 2025 to finalise these zones.

The New Indian Express 1 May 2025 11:11 am

Planning to escape the heat in the hills? Himachal sizzle at 40C, with Shimla, Kullu, and Manali seeing above-normal temps

Himachal Pradesh, known as the 'snowy mountains,' is experiencing an unusual heat wave, prompting an alert across several districts. Temperatures in popular tourist destinations like Shimla and Manali have surged above normal, with Una exceeding 41C. The Meteorological Centre forecasts the heat wave to persist in Una, Kullu, and Mandi until April 30, with potential thunderstorms expected in early May.

The Economic Times 29 Apr 2025 12:33 pm

Its not success, but a hazard, residents near WTE plant in Hyderabad warn Chennai

CHENNAI: A joint fact-finding report released by activists and civic groups in Hyderabad states that the waste-to-energy (WTE) plant in Jawahar Nagar is the cause for multiple health issues for residents in the locality. The report finds significance as a team of corporation officials and councillors visited the WTE plant on Thursday to study its successful operation. GCC had claimed it to be a success and has been pushing to open a similar facility at Kodungaiyur. The report states that residents living within an 8km radius of the Jawahar Nagar facility live with constant foul odour. The incineration also produces fine ash, which settles inside homes, covering furniture, clothes, and household items, which has aggravated respiratory issues, kidney ailments, skin diseases, and other chronic conditions in the region. The report documents the public health hazards and environmental degradation caused by the WTE plant and adjoining landfill. The plant with an incineration capacity 24MW has been in operation since 2021. Another plant with the same capacity is currently being constructed. Meanwhile, leachate from the landfill has contaminated nearby water bodies. A groundwater test revealed a TDS of 10,506 mg/l - 20 times over the permissible limit. The report accuses the plant operator of pollution control violations and fly ash mismanagement. When we visited the plant, we observed that the fly ash was dumped over garbage in the landfill. The company is not complying with the regulations, Sandeep Raj (40), a resident of Jawahar Nagar living just a few metres from the plant, told TNIE . a resident affected by skin disease Garbage trucks arrive uncovered. The air and water in a 10km radius are polluted . As per MoEFCC norms, a 500m buffer is required between landfills and homes, but even government-built flats are just 215m away, said Ruchith Asha Kamal, a member of Climate Front Hyderabad. The Kodungaiyur dumpyard falls within 100m of residential zones. The proposed Kodungaiyur WTE plant, to be built by the same firm, is designed to process 2,100 tonnes of non-recyclable solid waste per day. But now residents, councillors, and environmental activists are warning against it since countries like Canada are closing WTE plants due to air pollution and health hazards. When a 10-tonne facility in Manali led to cadmium contamination 24 times over the WHO limit, what will happen with 2,100 tonnes, asked Ramachandra Rao, a Kodungaiyur resident. North Chennai residents argue the region cannot withstand further environmental stress. It is good that GCC officials went on a study tour, but have they spoken to the victims there, asked T K Shanmugam, president of the Federation of North Chennai Residents Welfare Association. During the visit, GCC officials were provided with a detailed operation mechanism of the WTE plant in Hyderabad by GHMC Commissioner K Ilambarithi. The team will return to Chennai on Friday.

The New Indian Express 25 Apr 2025 10:46 am

Pahalgam terror attack: Felt like scenes from a movie, say lucky tourists from Karnataka who hit home base

BENGALURU: Following the Pahalgam terror attack, a total of 177 tourists from Karnataka were flown back from Jammu and Kashmir to Bengaluru on a special flight arranged by the state government, around Thursday noon. Describing the aftermath, many tourists said they had travelled in groups and could not book tickets, which had soared to nearly Rs 80,000 after the terror attack. They thanked the government for stepping in, saying fear on the ground had made travel difficult. Several said that minister Santosh Lad, who brought back the tourists, had personally visited Srinagar and also Gulmarg, where many tourists were stuck, assured them of safety, and helped coordinate their return. Never again to dream destination Kashmir was my dream destination ever since my older sister went there almost 30 years ago for her honeymoon, but after what we experienced, we will never ever visit the valley, said Monica Satya, a Bengalurean who finally made a trip to Kashmir, with eight friends and family members. Just days into the vacation, when Monica and her family were in Gulmarg, news of the terrorist attack nearby left them shaken. We were terrified. The internet was barely working, so we couldnt even check the flights or call anybody to check for us, she said. Unsure of what to do, Monica called a friend in Bengaluru, who informed her that she had seen the news that minister Santosh Lad was expected to visit. I arranged for the ministers number and called him. From Srinagar, the minister came to our hotel in Gulmarg, and assured us we would be taken back safely with the other tourists, she told TNIE. Tour bus delay saved them Misha (13) had travelled to Kashmir with her parents and younger sister during their school vacation. Were trying to cover all the North Indian hill stations last year, it was Shimla and Manali, and this time we chose Kashmir, she said. The family was scheduled to leave for Pahalgam from Gulmarg by bus, on the day of the terrorist attack. We were supposed to leave on Tuesday morning, but the tour agency said buses werent ready and wed leave only by evening, Misha recalled, adding that the delay saved them. It was not until later that day, when their internet connection returned, that they found out what had happened. We had multiple missed calls from relatives. Thats how we found out about the attack, she said. Misha said the family had originally planned to head back on April 26, however, after the attack, they immediately contacted the helpline set up for tourists and made arrangements to return early. Were 5 km from terror scene, felt like a movie Kush and Kriti, cousins from Bengaluru, had travelled to Kashmir with 20 family members, hoping to show their grandparents the beauty of the valley. But just as they were returning from Betaab Valley in Pahalgam, they learnt about the terror attack nearby. We were only 5 km from the spot, but had no idea what had happened until we reached our resort, Kush said. Soon after, the area was placed under heavy restrictions. There was a complete lockdown. We couldnt take our grandparents out anywhere curfew was imposed, helicopters were hovering above, and there were military checks. We couldnt believe it was the same place, it felt like a scene out of a movie, said Kush. Soudha security officer among tourists Among the tourists was Ravikumar, a police officer attached to Vidhana Soudha security, who had spent a good amount of money planning a holiday with his wife and child. However, his trip took an unexpected turn when he landed in Kashmir on the day of the terror attack. What was meant to be a relaxing family vacation was abruptly aborted as upon arrival, he was told it was unsafe to stay and was asked to return. Locals came to rescue Many tourists recalled that despite the language barrier, local residents extended immense help during the crisis. While most of the tourists were in Gulmarg and other parts of Kashmir far from Srinagar where their flights were scheduled they were still able to make their way back, with the support of local tour guides and drivers. They mentioned that even with a statewide curfew in place, locals helped them reach bus stands and arranged transport to Srinagar. Chetan R, Commissioner, Department of Youth Empowerment and Sports, told TNIE that the government is still in touch with the Anantnag district DIG to know how many tourists from the state are still in J&K. He also mentioned that the people there have their flights booked either to Amritsar or Delhi.

The New Indian Express 25 Apr 2025 8:27 am

Thunderstorm, hailstorm batter parts of Himachal Pradesh causing widespread damage

CHANDIGARH: A squall accompanied by heavy rain and hailstorms lashed several parts of Himachal Pradesh on Wednesday night, causing widespread damage and power outages were across the state. Shimla remained without electricity for several hours. The weather department has issued a yellow alert for thunderstorms and lightning in parts of the state on April 18 and 19. Meanwhile, heavy rains also lashed Punjab and Chandigarh. The squall struck Shimla around 11:15 PM plunging the town into darkness, the power supply was restored 10 hours later. The thunderstorm uprooted trees causing damage to vehicles, and blew off the roofs of makeshift houses. In the upper Shimla region, high-velocity winds caused significant damage to apple and stone fruit trees like plum and apricot. In many areas, fruit was knocked off the trees. Apple growers in Jubbal and Rampur reported major losses. The weather office has predicted thunderstorms accompanied by lightning and gusty winds in Una, Bilaspur, Hamirpur, Solan, Sirmaur and Kinnaur districts on April 18 and 19. Heavy rain and thunderstorms are likely in Chamba, Kangra, Kullu, Mandi, Shimla and Lahaul-Spiti districts during this period. On April 20 light to moderate rains are likely at many places and at few places on April 21 and 22 due to fresh Western Disturbance, as a cyclonic circulation lies over the region. There was an appreciable fall in the minimum temperatures. Lahaul and Spitis Keylong was coldest at night with a low of 0.5 degree Celsius. As per MeT, Seobagh in Kullu district recorded the highest rainfall of 28.8 mm, followed by Lahaul-Spitis Kukumseri 23.8 mm, Narkanda 18 mm, Mandi 17.6 mm, Dharamshala 17 mm, Chamba 16 mm, Kalpa 15.6, Kufri 15 mm while the tourist resorts of Kasauli received 14.4 mm rain, Dalhousie 10 mm, Shimla 9.6 mm and Manali 6.8 mm. Heavy rain, accompanied by strong winds, lashed many parts of Punjab and Chandigarh late yesterday night and in the early today morning. As per the MeT Department Chandigarh received 8.3 mm of rain, however, the sky became clear in the morning and residents woke up to sunny weather. While Amritsar received (4.5 mm), Pathankot (3.2 mm), Gurdaspur (18.8 mm) and Rupnagar (6 mm) and in neighboring Haryana, Ambala received a light shower.

The New Indian Express 17 Apr 2025 7:30 pm

6 Offbeat Experiences In Manali That'll Show You A New Side Of The Himalayan Town

If you're up for ditching the itinerary and getting a little off track (sometimes literally), here's a version of Manali that feels wilder, cooler, and way more personal.

NDTV 17 Apr 2025 4:19 pm

Poor condition of roads leaves residents fuming, Greater Chennai Corporation plans to relay many stretches

The residents say roads in areas such as Manali, Old Washermenpet, and Adyar are riddled with potholes, making their daily commute an ordeal. They also express resentment over incomplete roadworks and temporary repairs carried out ahead of the monsoon

The Hindu 12 Apr 2025 12:06 am

Greater Chennai Corporation will improve school infrastructure, conduct skill development classes, says Chennai Mayor

She was inspecting some of the ongoing works in the Manali and Madhavaram zones

The Hindu 12 Apr 2025 12:00 am

Beyond Shimla and Manali: 6 lesser-crowded summer hill stations in India

Escape the summer crowds by exploring these offbeat hill stations in India. From lush valleys to remote villages, these serene getaways promise cool climates, scenic beauty, and peaceful experiences.

The Economic Times 11 Apr 2025 1:28 pm

Why Kangana Ranaut received Rs 1 lakh electricity bill for her Manali residence? Himachal minister Vikramaditya Singh alleges, 'Mohtarma badi shararat karti hai...'

Ms Ranaut, the BJP Lok Sabha MP from Mandi, during a public meeting in her constituency recently, criticised the Congress government in Himachal Pradesh over the inflated electricity bills, a video of which went viral on social media.

DNA India 11 Apr 2025 11:06 am

M-cups distributed to polytechnic students in Manali

The initiative was launched by Chennai Petroleum Corporation Limited in collaboration with HLL Management Academy

The Hindu 10 Apr 2025 10:11 pm

Kangana Ranaut launches scathing attack on Congress-led Himachal Pradesh government for Rs 1 lakh electricity bill: 'Main toh kahungi yeh bhediya hi hai'

Launching a scathing attack on the Congress government in Himachal Pradesh, Kangana Ranaut alleged that she received an excessive electricity bill of Rs 1 lakh for her Manali home, where she does not even reside.

DNA India 9 Apr 2025 11:08 am

Chennai Corporation shuts down operations of Manali 10-tonne incinerator plant

This decision was made after a fact-finding report claimed that the incinerator had been operating without renewaing the annual Consent to Operate (CTO) certificate from the Tamil Nadu Pollution Control Board (TNPCB). It was last obtained in March 2020, said sources.

The Hindu 6 Apr 2025 12:09 am

Robbery To Fund Manali Trip: 4 Teens Arrested, 2 Minors Detained In Delhi

On Friday, a grocery shop owner filed a complaint stating that seven to eight unidentified boys barged into his shop. They looted cash and documents at gunpoint. They had also threatened him with a knife.

News18 5 Apr 2025 11:45 pm

Zoji La Pass connecting Kashmir to Ladakh opening in record time

NEW DELHI: Zojila Pass connecting Kashmir Valley to Ladakh is set to open after remaining closed for record minimum duration. As per the sources, the pass will be opened for vehicle movement after a closure of mere 32 days, on 01 Apr 2025, by Border Roads Organisation (BRO). Lt Gen Raghu Srinivasan, Director General BRO is to flag off the first convoy towards Ladakh on Tuesday, in the presence of other dignitaries. Zojila Pass, one of the most critical and challenging high-altitude passes in the world, serves as a strategic lifeline connecting Ladakh with the Kashmir Valley and the rest of India. It has its own unique challenge of freezing temperatures, lack of oxygen and frequent avalanches. Every year, it experiences heavy snowfall, forcing its closure during the harsh winter months. The Pass, located on Srinagar-Sonamarg-Gumri road at a height of 11, 643 feet, normally closes by mid-November every year, with the onset of winters when the temperatures dip to sub-zero degrees and opens only by end April the next year. This temporary closure impacts not only the movement of troops and essential supplies but also disrupts the daily lives of locals in Ladakh, who depend on this route for trade, medical support, and economic activities. As per the BRO this year's achievement is particularly remarkable, given the extreme weather conditions and the swift timeline in which the pass was reopened by the brave personnel of BRO. This year, the BRO added, the pass faced an unusually short but intense closure period due to relentless snowfall caused by a Western Disturbance from 27 February to 16 March. The sheer volume of accumulated snow posed a formidable challenge. However, the indomitable spirit of BRO personnel under Project Beacon and Project Vijayak ensured that restoration efforts commenced immediately after the snowfall subsided. Working under extreme conditions, battling sub-zero temperatures, high velocity winds, and avalanche-prone terrain, the BRO teams cleared the snow in a record 15 days, from 17 March to 31 March. Their unmatched dedication and technical expertise enabled traffic restoration, an extraordinary achievement that highlights the progress made in infrastructure maintenance in this harsh region. What was once a six-month closure has now been reduced to mere weeks, proving BRO's capability to overcome nature's toughest challenges. The pass is a crucial artery for military logistics, ensuring rapid deployment and sustenance of troops in Ladakh, a region of critical national significance. The region, specifically Ladakh, is strategically important as it shares disputed borders with Pakistan and China, with areas like Kargil, Siachen, Daulat Beg Oldi (DBO) falling in this area. Other than air routes, Ladakh is linked by only two land routes with the rest of India: the 434 km Srinagar-Leh road and 475 km Manali-Leh road passing through Sarchu. The necessity to minimise the closure duration of the pass was felt once the standoff in Eastern Ladakh had set in by May 2020 and a large body of troops with their arms and equipment were moved in by the Indian Military. Leaving the vital road communication shut was not the option thus BRO initiated plans to gradually cut down this duration of Zojila choked with the snow. BRO was raised in 1960 and it has an authorized force level of 41,600 which includes 2,426 officers and 39,174 subordinates and is involved in creating and maintaining strategic roads and associated infrastructure.

The New Indian Express 31 Mar 2025 7:52 pm

From roads to railways: Govt shares key updates on how Ladakhs transport network is changing

Road connectivity and infrastructure in Ladakh have seen significant progress since it became a Union Territory in 2019. Over Rs 20,660 crore has been allocated for road development. Major projects include the Bilaspur-Manali-Leh railway, a new terminal at Leh airport, and the Shinku La Tunnel to ensure all-weather connectivity. These developments aim to enhance civilian and military needs.

The Economic Times 24 Mar 2025 3:24 pm

Meerut Murder Case: Cab driver reveals shocking details, claims Muskaan and Sahil did this during their trip toShimla,Manali

Ajab Singh, the driver who took the couple on a trip through Himachal Pradesh, said their behaviour did not indicate that they had just committed a brutal crime.

DNA India 22 Mar 2025 6:18 pm

Video: Meerut Woman Celebrates Holi In Manali With Lover 11 Days After Killing Husband

Muskaan Rastogi celebrated Holi in Manali with lover Sahil Shukla just 11 days after killing her husband Saurabh Rajput. They were seen dancing and posing in a video from the celebration.

News18 22 Mar 2025 8:23 am

A 100-year journey of a healing institution

Ayurveda considers the human lifespan to be of 100 years. While very few people reach the age, institutions established by great souls and blessed by divine grace continue to serve humanity for centuries. One such institution is the Sri Ramakrishna Math Charitable dispensary in Chennai, which is celebrating its 100th anniversary today. For 127 years, the Chennai Ramakrishna Math has been dedicated to spiritual, social and humanitarian service. It has made contributions to education, healthcare, culture, youth development, religious literature, womens empowerment and disaster relief. Founded by Swami Ramakrishnananda, a direct disciple of Ramakrishna Paramahamsa, the math upholds Swami Vivekanandas vision: Service to humanity is service to god. One of its most impactful initiatives is its charitable dispensary. In an era where even a cup of tea costs much more than a rupee, this dispensary provides medical consultation and prescribed medicines for just Rs 1. While diagnostic tests like X-rays and blood tests often cost Rs 500 or more elsewhere, they are available here for just Rs 50. And this service is provided every day. For over 12 years, it has provided subsidised healthcare for auto drivers and their families, and half-charge treatments for differently-abled patients. The clinic is currently run by 74 part-time doctors, 50 volunteers and 14 dedicated staff members. In 2023-24, over 3.41 lakh patients received affordable medical treatment at this institution. The dispensary also extends its services through medical camps in rural areas such as Manali and Meyyur in Tiruvallur district. Holistic healing Founded in 1925 by Dr P Raghavendra Rao, the dispensary has now grown into a polyclinic with multiple medical departments, including neurology, orthopaedics, ENT, diabetology and oncology. The advanced diagnostic facilities include ECG, audiogram, ultrasound, echocardiogram, digital X-ray, endoscopy and mammography. Consultations on alternative systems such as siddha, ayurveda, homoeopathy, acupuncture and sujok therapy are also available. The dispensary has a unique historical significance. It was once called the Athikuttai Hospital in Tamil, named after a pond where the remains (ashti) of a divine lady, Poombavai, are believed to have been consecrated. According to legend, she was miraculously revived by the blessings of Shaiva Saint Thirugnanasambandar at this location. This has led many to believe that anyone receiving treatment here would find relief and healing. Since the hospital is located within the Ramakrishna Math campus, patients often visit the Universal Temple seeking spiritual solace alongside medical care. This holistic approach to healing has helped countless individuals recover physically, mentally and spiritually. Since 1987, with the blessings of Swami Tapasyananda, the then Vice-President of Ramakrishna Math and Mission in Belur, the dispensary has been offering free treatment to thousands of leprosy patients. The math also organises weekly leprosy treatment camps at eight locations across Tamil Nadu, providing not just medical care but also socio-economic rehabilitation. To help recovered patients regain financial independence, self-help groups have been established. These initiatives restore their dignity, reunite families and reintegrate them into society. Operating silently yet impactfully, the dispensary has been a lifeline for the needy for a century. Its centennial celebration, graced by Srimath Swami Gautamananda Maharaj, the global president of the Ramakrishna Order, is intended to mark the beginning of new service initiatives for the next century. Swami Vimurtananda Adhyaksha, Ramakrishna Math, Thanjavur (Views are personal)

The New Indian Express 22 Mar 2025 7:51 am

Video: Meerut Woman's Holi Celebrations With Lover, 11 Days After Cement Murder

Just 11 days after killing her husband, chopping up his body and leaving it to rot in a cement-lined drum, Muskaan Rastogi was playing Holi with her lover Sahil Shukla in Manali, laughing and posing for a video as if nothing had happened.

NDTV 21 Mar 2025 10:25 pm

Pillow stuffing from Thailand and China faces dumping probe

India has launched an anti-dumping investigation on flexible slabstock polyol imports from China and Thailand amid allegations that low-priced imports are harming the domestic industry. The investigation follows a complaint by Manali Petrochemicals Limited, urging that China be treated as a non-market economy.

The Economic Times 21 Mar 2025 12:27 am

Merchant Navy Officer's Wife Went On Manali Trip To Hide His Murder, But Insta Posts Rang Alarm Bells

The investigation into the case brought to fore an extramarital affair between Saurabh Rajput's wife Muskaan Rastogi and her lover Sahil Shukla.

News18 19 Mar 2025 2:09 pm

Strategic BilaspurManaliLeh Rail Line Completes DPR Stage; To Cost Rs 1.31 Lakh Crore: Railways

The Bilaspur-Manali-Leh (489 km) alignment starts from Beri and passes through major towns including Sundernagar, Mandi, Manali, Sissu, Darcha, Keylong, Sarchu, Pang, Rumtse, Upshi, and Kharu, before terminating at Leh.

News18 13 Mar 2025 3:34 pm

Anticipated cost of providing rail connectivity to Kargil Rs 1.31 lakh crore: Ashwini Vaishnaw

NEW DELHI, Mar 12: The anticipated cost of the new Bilaspur-Manali-Leh railway line that will provide connectivity to Kargil is Rs 1,31,000 crore, the Government said on Wednesday. In a written reply to a question in the Lok Sabha on whether the Government has any plan to conduct a survey for connecting Ganderbal in Kashmir with Kargil, Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw said a Detailed Project Report of the new Bilaspur-Manali-Leh line has been prepared. Bilaspur-Manali-Leh New Line, falling partly in [] The post Anticipated cost of providing rail connectivity to Kargil Rs 1.31 lakh crore: Ashwini Vaishnaw appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Daily Excelsior 12 Mar 2025 9:55 pm

Manali or Nainital: Which one should you visit right now

Planning a winter getaway but can't decide between Manali and Nainital? While Manali offers snow-capped mountains and thrilling adventures, Nainital charms with its serene lake and misty hills. Here's a comparison to help you choose wisely!

The Economic Times 4 Mar 2025 12:08 pm

Ditch Goa & Manali! explore these 10 stunning hidden gems in India

Escape the crowds and explore 10 breathtaking hidden gems in India that offer pristine landscapes, rich culture, and unforgettable experiences.

The Economic Times 3 Mar 2025 2:41 pm

Snowfall triggers landslides in HP as parts of north get rain; 4 dead 5 still missing in Uttarakhand avalanche

NEW DELHI: Heavy rains and snowfall in Himachal Pradesh triggered landslides and caused roadblocks on Saturday, disrupting normal life in the state, as several other parts of north India received showers. In Uttarakhand, 50 workers trapped in an avalanche in the Chamoli district were rescued, but four of them died on Saturday as rescuers raced against time to save the remaining five. The strategic 270-km Jammu-Srinagar National Highway, which was shut on Thursday evening following heavy snowfall and multiple landslides in the Ramban district, was reopened for light motor vehicles after the weather improved, and road restoration work was carried out. Parts of Delhi, Rajasthan and Himachal Pradesh received showers on Saturday. A day after an avalanche buried 55 labourers alive at a BRO camp in Mana village in Uttarakhand's Chamoli district, 50 of them were pulled out of the snow, but four of them died. The search is on for the remaining five. The avalanche hit the Border Roads Organisation (BRO) camp between Mana and Badrinath between 5.30 am and 6 am on Friday, according to the Army. Thirty-three of them were rescued by Friday night. Rain and snowfall hampered the rescue efforts on Friday, and the operation was suspended as the night fell. As the weather cleared up on Saturday morning, the Army and Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) personnel based in Mana resumed the rescue operation, District Disaster Management Officer N K Joshi said. Six helicopters, including three of the Indian Army Aviation, two of the IAF and one civil copter hired by the Army, are engaged in the rescue operations, an Army spokesperson said. Located three kilometres from Badrinath, Mana is the last village on the India-Tibet border at a height of 3,200 metres. Uttarakhand avalanche: Four laborers succumb to injuries, five still missing In neighbouring Himachal Pradesh, heavy rains and snowfall disrupted normal life in several parts of the state, triggering landslides, blocking roads and huge mounds of debris swept by gushing waters damaging vehicles in Kullu. A massive landslide triggered by incessant rains and cloudbursts at Rokaru in the Kangra district damaged several vehicles and endangered 12 houses. The affected families have been relocated to safer places, and restoration work is in progress, said Kangra Deputy Commissioner Hem Raj. One person was reported missing near the Shiva Hydropower project in Palampur, and a search operation has been launched to trace him, officials said. Tribal Pangi valley in Chamba was cut off following heavy snowfall, and electricity and telecommunication services have been disrupted. A landslide at Tohlu nullah blocked the Kiratpur-Manali National Highway, leaving tourists stranded. A total of 112 roads were closed in Kullu, and work is in progress to power 1,646 transformers. The Kullu-Manali Road was also closed, and traffic was being diverted via Naggar while the electricity supply was yet to be restored in Manikaran and Manali, officials said. Meanwhile, the state received moderate to heavy snowfall and rain during the past 24 hours. In Jammu and Kashmir, the restoration of the 66-km Banihal-Nashri stretch on the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway was intensified on Saturday morning after the weather conditions improved. Heavy rains had triggered shooting stones, mudslides and landslides at a dozen places, including Kishtwari Pather, Moum Passi, Hingni, Panthiyal, Mehar and Dalwas, while snowfall between Qazigund and Ramsu left the road slippery. A side of the road near Mehar has caved in, while a major landslide has blocked one tube of the Kunfer-Peerah tunnel. The road repair was hampered by continuous rains on Friday, officials said. Ramban deputy commissioner Baseer-ul-Haq Chaudhary said there are at least 16 locations along the 66-km road stretch that were rendered vulnerable by the rains. The national capital saw light rain on Saturday morning as the minimum temperature settled at 16.6 degrees Celsius, 4.1 notches above the seasonal average. Delhi recorded 2 mm of rainfall in the last 24 hours till 8.30 am on Saturday. Rainfall measurements at various weather stations included 1.8 mm at Safdarjung, 1.0 mm at Palam, and 4 mm at Pitampura. Light to moderate rainfall was recorded in parts of Rajasthan on Saturday, where a maximum of 28 mm rainfall was recorded in Churu, followed by 18 mm in Chirawa (Jhunjhunu), the weather department said.

The New Indian Express 1 Mar 2025 7:42 pm

Heavy Rains, Snowfall Cause Chaos in Himachal, Roads Blocked, Vehicles Swept Away

KULLU - HIMACHAL PRADESH: Heavy rains and snowfall have caused major problems in Himachal Pradesh, leading to landslides and road closures. Many highways and key roads were blocked on Friday, making it difficult for people to travel. For the third day in a row, the state has been experiencing heavy rain and snowfall, affecting normal life. Around 200 roads have been shut down, cutting off areas like Kullu, Lahaul and Spiti, Kinnaur, Chamba, and Shimla from the rest of the state, officials said. Due to the bad weather, all schools and colleges have been closed in Chamba and Manali. However, CBSE board exams will still take place as planned. Authorities have also warned people about possible avalanches in higher regions above 2,300 meters and advised them to stay indoors and take precautions. Many major roads are blocked due to snow. The Hindustan-Tibet road (NH-5) is closed at Narkanda, while roads connecting Dodra-Kwar and Deha-Chopal are also not accessible. The Theog-Hatkoti Highway near Kharapathar village, which is at an altitude of 8,770 feet, has also been shut down. In Kullu, heavy rains have flooded areas like Akhara Bazaar and Gandhi Nagar. Water from overflowing rivers entered the streets, damaging parked vehicles. Authorities have stopped vehicle movement beyond Nehru Kund because of fresh snowfall in places like Solang Nallah, Gulaba, Atal Tunnel, and Rohtang. A landslide at Banala has also blocked the Manali-Kiratpur National Highway, and work to clear it has been delayed due to falling rocks, police said. Many roads in remote valleys remain blocked due to snowfall and continuous rainfall. View this post on Instagram A post shared by News Track Live (@newstracklive) According to weather reports, Kothi received the highest snowfall of 120 cm by 8:30 am, followed by Khadrala (115 cm), Keylong (75 cm), Kalpa (46 cm), Kukumseri (38.8 cm), Sangla (23.5 cm), and both Nichar and Moorang (15 cm each). Lower and mid-hill areas are also facing problems due to heavy rains. Seobagh recorded the highest rainfall in the state at 113.2 mm, followed by Bhuntar (113.2 mm), Banjar (112.4 mm), Jogindernagar (112 mm), Salooni (109.3 mm), Palampur (99 mm), Chamba (97 mm), Baijnath (75 mm), Kangra (74 mm), Rohroo (70 mm), Kufri (59 mm), and Shimla (54.5 mm). The sky remains dark and cloudy, and the meteorological department has issued an orange alert for heavy snowfall in Lahaul and Spiti, Kinnaur, and higher areas of Chamba, Kullu, Shimla, Mandi, Sirmaur, and Kangra districts. Light to moderate rain is expected, with heavy rainfall at some isolated places in Chamba, Kullu, Shimla, Mandi, Sirmaur, and Kangra districts.

News Track 28 Feb 2025 4:10 pm

Heavy snowfall disrupts roads, power supply in Himachal Pradesh

CHANDIGARH: Himachal Pradesh has been severely impacted by heavy snowfall and widespread rainfall, leading to the closure of more than 200 roads and disruptions in power and water supply. Several areas, particularly in the districts of Lahaul and Spiti, Kullu, Kinnaur, and Chamba, have been cut off from the rest of the state. The weather conditions have also forced the closure of educational institutions in Lahaul and Spiti and Chamba districts. Due to heavy snowfall, several key routes, including Darcha-Shinkula, Darcha-Sarchu, Koksar-Manali via Rohtang, Koksar to Losar via Kunzum, and Atal Tunnel to Manali, Tindi, and Udaipur roads, have been blocked. Authorities have advised travelers to avoid these routes for safety reasons. An avalanche alert has been issued, and the general public is urged to refrain from visiting high-altitude areas prone to avalanches. The police in Lahaul and Spiti stated, The general public is advised to avoid unnecessary travel and refrain from visiting high-altitude areas prone to avalanches. In the Dodra-Kwar region of Shimla district, heavy snowfall continues, shutting down all roads leading to the valley. The Meteorological Department has issued an orange warning for Lahaul and Spiti, Chamba, Kinnaur, and areas above 2,300 meters, warning of an increased risk of avalanches in higher-altitude regions. The precipitation is expected to continue with the same intensity throughout the day. Meanwhile, panic spread among residents of Manikaran Valley in the Kullu district following the formation of an artificial lake in Jeera Nallah in Tosh village, which has created a flash flood threat. Authorities have evacuated people living downstream to safer locations. The state also remains on high alert for avalanches following fresh snowfall in the region. In Shimla district, 12 roads have been closed due to the harsh weather. The Hindustan-Tibet Road (National Highway 5) has been shut down near Narkanda due to slippery conditions caused by heavy snowfall. As a result, traffic has been diverted from Sainj to Shimla via Luhri and Sunni. The Meteorological Department has issued an orange alert for light to moderate snowfall at most places, with isolated spells of very heavy snowfall expected in Kinnaur and Lahaul and Spiti, as well as in the higher reaches of Chamba, Shimla, Mandi, Sirmaur, Kangra, and Manali. Since last night, continuous rainfall has been recorded in Shimla. A yellow alert has been issued for more rain and light snowfall in the city and surrounding areas. However, educational institutions in the state capital have remained open. Tabo in Lahaul and Spiti recorded the lowest temperature at night, dropping to minus 4.5 degrees Celsius, while Nahan was the warmest during the day with a high of 23.2 degrees Celsius.

The New Indian Express 28 Feb 2025 12:54 pm

'Should Remain At Corner Of Her House': Kerala Cleric Remarks Over Widow's Manali Trip Sparks Row

A video of Nafeesumma enjoying the snow went viral, but it attracted criticism from Ibrahim Saqafi Puzhakkattiri, a cleric associated with the pro-CPI(M) Sunni faction

News18 21 Feb 2025 5:29 pm

Heavy snowfall cuts off Lahaul Valley, Manali-Leh Highway closed

CHANDIGARH: The Manali-Leh Highway has been closed for vehicular traffic following heavy snowfall in higher areas of several districts in Himachal Pradesh, cutting off Lahaul Valley from the rest of the state and leaving both locals and tourists stranded. With snow accumulation reaching up to 60 cm on the road connecting the North Portal of the Atal Tunnel to Keylong-Jispa, the route has become impassable. The tribal district of Lahaul and Spiti is experiencing severe weather conditions. In response, the Lahaul-Spiti police have issued a travel advisory urging all travellers to avoid the Manali-Leh route until further notice. The closure has significantly impacted transportation, halting vehicular movement on the affected stretch. Road users have been advised to remain patient and stay updated through official channels regarding road conditions and weather. Tourists planning to travel in or out of the area have been urged to adjust their plans accordingly. Deputy Commissioner of Lahaul-Spiti, Rahul Kumar, stated that efforts to restore road connectivity would begin as soon as weather conditions improve. The Border Roads Organisation and the PWD are on standby and will deploy their workforce and machinery to clear key roads once the weather permits, he said. Kumar also cautioned people against unnecessary travel, particularly into high-altitude areas prone to snow avalanches. Following heavy snowfall in the higher reaches of Manali, roads beyond Nehru Kund have been closed to most vehicles. Additionally, National Highway 5 (Hindustan-Tibet Road) has been shut at Narkanda due to snow, with traffic now being diverted from Sainj to Shimla via Luhri. Since Wednesday night, Shilaroo recorded 5 cm of snowfall, followed by Gondla with 3 cm, Kalpa 1.3 cm, and Sangla 0.3 cm. The upper areas of Manali, Narkanda, Rohru, Chansal, and Keylong in Lahaul and Spiti also witnessed snowfall. Several areas across the state received light to moderate rainfall, with Dalhousie recording the highest at 22 mm, followed by Sundernagar with 21 mm, Bharmour 18.2 mm, Dharamshala 16.8 mm, Manali 16 mm, Mandi and Kangra 14.4 mm each, Bhuntar 13.6 mm, Bilaspur 13 mm, and Una 10 mm. The state capital, Shimla, was lashed by thunderstorms and received mild rainfall. The Met Office has issued an orange alert for heavy rainfall, snowfall, and thunderstorms in the districts of Chamba, Kangra, Kullu, and Mandi on Thursday. It also warned that a fresh Western Disturbance is likely to affect northwest India from 24 February onwards. The state has recorded an average rainfall of 33 mm during the winter season from 1 January to 20 February, significantly below the normal of 154 mma deficit of 79 per cent.

The New Indian Express 21 Feb 2025 12:08 pm

Explosion in Manali bio-gas plant premises kills one, another injured

The duo was working in the panel board room where biogas would be produced. When they were preparing to shut down the machines, a machine exploded along with a gas pipe.

The Hindu 16 Feb 2025 11:04 pm

Congress Congratulates Kangana Ranaut For Pure Veg Cafe, Internet Says This

Actress-turned-politician Kangana Ranaut has announced the launch of her new cafe in Himachal Pradesh's Manali. The Mountain Story cafe, which she describes as a long-cherished dream, will open its doors on Valentine's Day.

NDTV 13 Feb 2025 1:38 pm

Kangana Ranaut wants this top actress to be first customer at her Manali cafe; it's not Priyanka, Alia, Kareena, Katrina

Kangana Ranaut has invited Deepika Padukone to be her first client at her new cafe The Mountain Story in Manali.

DNA India 6 Feb 2025 6:40 am

Fresh snowfall in popular tourist towns of Himachal; Met issues thunderstorm warning

Shimla, Feb 5: Fresh snowfall was recorded in the higher reaches of Himachal Pradesh, with the Met office issuing a yellow alert for thunderstorm and lightning in some districts on Wednesday. Isolated places in Shimla, Kullu, Kinnaur, Lahaul and Spiti, and Chamba districts received snow. According to the Met office, snowfall was recorded in the famous tourist resort towns of Narkanda and Kufri in Shimla district, Dalhousie in Chamba, and Manali and adjoining areas in Kullu. There were also reports [] The post Fresh snowfall in popular tourist towns of Himachal; Met issues thunderstorm warning appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Daily Excelsior 5 Feb 2025 1:16 pm

Kangana Ranauts Brand New Cafe In Picturesque Manali Impresses The Internet, Fans Say Yaar Kitna Mast Hai Ye

Kangana first announced her dream cafe project in 2021

mashable 5 Feb 2025 11:40 am

Himachal to become the third state in India to legally cultivate cannabis for industrial and medicinal use

CHANDIGARH : Himachal Pradesh will become the third state in India, after Uttarakhand and Madhya Pradesh, to undertake controlled, legal cultivation of cannabis for industrial and medicinal use. The state hopes to generate additional revenue of about Rs 500 crore per annum. Due to its suitable agro-climatic conditions, cannabis grows naturally in regions such as Kullu, Manali, Mandi, Chamba, Shimla, and Sirmaur. The state cabinet approved the proposal yesterday. The cabinet has authorised the revenue department to undertake controlled cannabis cultivation in the state and to conduct a pilot study on cannabis cultivation, which will be jointly carried out by two universities: Chaudhary Sarwan Kumar Krishi Vishvavidyalaya at Palampur in Kangra district, and Dr Y.S. Parmar University of Horticulture at Nauni in Solan district. The study will assess and recommend the future roadmap for this initiative, and the agriculture department has been designated as the nodal agency for cannabis cultivation. This decision was made during the state cabinet meeting held at Dharamshala in Kangra district on Friday. At present, Uttarakhand and Madhya Pradesh are engaged in cannabis cultivation, primarily for use in the pharmaceutical sector to prepare medicines. Sources indicate that the agriculture department, designated as the nodal agency, will work out the modalities for beginning cannabis cultivation. The department has been given six months to prepare all the required guidelines and standard operating procedures (SOPs), including selecting the cannabis species most suitable for the pharmaceutical sector. Additionally, the department will establish seed banks to supply farmers who will be issued licenses, ensuring that the seeds provided contain a low narcotic content. Another significant challenge will be procuring hemp seeds with less than 0.3% THC content to prevent their use for narcotic purposes. The state will also need to create specialised labs to produce high-quality seeds suitable for the medicinal and industrial sectors, according to sources. Furthermore, the state government will need to amend the state Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Rules, 1985, for this purpose and ensure strict regulation, including specialised excise staff for monitoring and enforcement. Last year, the state assembly adopted a resolution endorsing the recommendations of the committee headed by Revenue Minister Jagat Singh Negi to amend the NDPS rules for this purpose. The committee had submitted its report to the state government on September 22, 2023. The report recommended cannabis cultivation for industrial and medicinal use under Sections 10 and 14 of the NDPS Act. The committee suggested allowing the cultivation of cannabis for industrial purposes, such as obtaining fibre or seed or for horticultural purposes, in compliance with Section 14 of the NDPS Act, with cultivation limited to open areas. The committee prepared the report after visiting Madhya Pradesh and Uttarakhand to gather firsthand insights from experts involved in non-narcotic cannabis cultivation.

The New Indian Express 25 Jan 2025 12:20 pm

Best Time to Book a Cheap Flight to India With MyTicketsToIndia

The winter months from December to early March are often considered the best time to visit India, its perfect for exploring. The heat starts to build from April onward, and the summer monsoon usually sweeps through between June and September. However, with India's large size and different climates, theres always something new to explore throughout the year. At My Tickets To India, weve compiled this guide to help you find the best times to visit some of the country's most popular destinations. Best Time to Visit India Overall The best time to visit India is during the winter, from October to March when most regions experience pleasant weather. During this period: Northern India, including Delhi, Rajasthan, and Agra, has cooler days, perfect for exploring historic monuments like the Taj Mahal and Jaipurs Amber Fort. Southern India, including Kerala and Goa, enjoys a tropical yet comfortable climate ideal for beach vacations and backwater cruises. Regional Highlights: Best Times to Visit Specific Places Best Time to Visit Kerala, India The best time to visit Kerala is from November to February when the weather is cooler and less humid. Its perfect for exploring Munnars tea plantations, the backwaters of Alleppey, and Cochins cultural landmarks. Best Time to Visit Goa, India For beach lovers, the best time to visit Goa is from November to March. The festive vibe, coupled with sunny days and cool evenings, makes it a prime time for water sports and nightlife. Best Time to Visit Leh Ladakh, India The ideal time to visit Leh Ladakh is during the summer months of May to September when the snow has melted, and the roads are open. This period is excellent for trekking, biking, and exploring the stark beauty of the region. Best Time to Visit Andaman and Nicobar Islands, India The Andaman Islands are best visited between October and May. The clear skies and calm seas make it ideal for snorkeling, scuba diving, and beach hopping. Best Time to Visit the Taj Mahal, India To see the Taj Mahal in all its glory, plan your visit between October and February. Early mornings during this season offer spectacular views, often with a misty backdrop. Best Time to Visit Northern India The northern states, including Rajasthan, Himachal Pradesh, and Uttarakhand, are best visited from October to March. This is also the best time to explore destinations like Manali, Shimla, Rishikesh, and Varanasi. Best Time to Visit South India South India, including popular destinations like Bangalore, Coorg, Munnar, Ooty, and Hyderabad, is most pleasant from October to February. Seasonal Travel Considerations Summer (April to June): Ideal for visiting hill stations like Shimla, Manali, and Darjeeling. Monsoon (July to September): A great time to experience Keralas greenery and Ayurveda retreats. Winter (October to March): Perfect for exploring most of India, from the deserts of Rajasthan to the beaches of Goa. 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As a leading domestic airline, IndiGo is famous for its affordable fares and reliability within India. Several airlines stand out for offering affordable international flight tickets to India . Here are our top recommendations: Emirates: This Airline is known for its excellent service and competitive fares, Emirates frequently offers seasonal promotions, making its premium services accessible for long-haul travelers. Qatar Airways: This is an ideal choice for flights to the USA and Europe, Qatar Airways combines comfort and top-notch service, earning its reputation as a favorite among international travelers. Singapore Airlines: Perfect for Southeast Asia travel, Singapore Airlines is celebrated for its world-class service and reliability, making it the go-to option for destinations like Singapore, Malaysia, and beyond. IndiGo: A dependable choice for domestic travel within India, IndiGo provides budget-friendly fares, a vast network of routes, and a strong reputation for punctuality & customer satisfaction. Air India: Air India, the flagship carrier of India, offers a wide network of domestic and international routes. Known for its Indian hospitality and competitive fares, it is a great choice for travelers looking for comfort and affordability. If you're planning a trip, Air India flights from USA to India provide a reliable and convenient option. Tips for Booking Flights The best day and time to book India trips is mid-week, preferably Tuesday or Wednesday, for better deals. Avoid last-minute bookings during peak seasons to save on airfare. Use our expert services to get discounted rates on flights from USA to India with zero convenience fees. Why Book With MTI? We specialize in providing customized flight options for travelers flying from USA to India. Whether youre planning a cultural tour, a beach vacation, or a spiritual retreat, we ensure hassle-free bookings, affordable fares, and excellent support. Conclusion Indias diverse climate means theres no single best time to visit. Instead, the ideal time depends on your chosen destination and interests. From the snowy peaks of Kashmir to the sunny beaches of Goa, every season offers unique experiences. Contact us today to plan your trip from the USA to India and enjoy an unforgettable journey. For more information, please contactEmail: info@myticketstoindia.comPhone: +1-585-910-2929Website: https://www.myticketstoindia.com Website: https://www.myticketstoindia.com.auWebsite: https://www.myticketstoindia.ae

Deccan Chronicle 24 Jan 2025 5:39 pm

Zoho CEO Sridhar Vembu's Risk Analysis Post After Paragliding Accident Kills Young Entrepreneur

Jeyesh Ram, the son of Sridhar Vembu's close friends, died in a paragliding accident in Kullu, Manali, on Friday.

NDTV 20 Jan 2025 12:32 pm

Photos: Fresh snowfall in Manali

Manali: Manalis Solang Valley recently experienced fresh snowfall, attracting tourists to its stunning winter scenery. However, heavy snow caused traffic jams in Manali. Also ReadPhotos: Heavy snowfall in J&K Manali: Tourists visit Solang Valley after fresh snowfall, in Manali, Sunday, Jan. 12, 2025. (PTI Photo) Manali: Tourists stuck in a trafiic jam after fresh snowfall, 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 .

The Siasat Daily 12 Jan 2025 11:11 pm

Train link in J&K to be extended to border dists: Sinha

SRINAGAR: Ahead of direct train connectivity between Kashmir and Delhi, the train service in J&K will be further extended to border town of Uri and Kupwara in north Kashmir and border districts of Poonch and Rajouri in Jammu region. It will connect the Line of Control (LoC) with the rail link. Lt Governor Manoj Sinha said Detailed Project Report (DPR) is under consideration for new railway lines. For Jammu and Kashmir, Indian Railways is spearheading a new era of development and integration. The prestigious Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL) will seamlessly connect Kashmir to Kanyakumari which will boost tourism, trade, and employment opportunities in the region, Sinha said. He said several transformative projects are in the pipeline for Jammu and Kashmir. The extension of the rail link to the border town of Uri and border districts will generate employment for the locals and improve connectivity. The link to Uri and border districts would also help in the mobility of the troops deployed at the LoC and other forward areas of J&K. It would help with quick transportation of troops and military hardware. The L-G also said that DPR is also under examination for the new line between Pathankot-Leh (664kms), Bilaspur-Manali-Leh (489kms) and doubling of Baramulla-Banihal line. By linking key towns and regions, these projects promise to unlock the regions untapped potential and boost local economies, he said. Meanwhile, CM Omar Abdullah said creation of Jammu Railway division is a historic moment. He allayed fears of Jammu that it would suffer losses due to direct train connectivity between Kashmir and Delhi. I want to assure people that rail connectivity to Kashmir will benefit Jammu. It will increase trade, tourism and connectivity of Jammu, he said. Maintaining that trade and industry in J&K would benefit from train connectivity, Omar said job opportunities will increase with the new railway division in Jammu.

The New Indian Express 7 Jan 2025 7:13 am