Blast on Railway Track Derails Jaffar Express in Pakistan, Several Injured
Peshawar, Oct 7: Several passengers were injured on Tuesday when a blast on a railway track derailed five bogies of the Peshawar-bound Jaffar Express in Sindh province, railway police said. The explosion occurred near Somarwah, close to Sultan Kot in Shikarpur district. Injured passengers were rushed to nearby hospitals, while a rescue operation is underway. [] The post Blast on Railway Track Derails Jaffar Express in Pakistan, Several Injured appeared first on Northlines .
Railway Track Blast Derails Jaffar Express In Pakistan, Several Injured
Peshawar, Oct 7: Several people were injured in a blast that occurred on a railway track, which derailed five bogies of a train in Pakistans southwestern Sindh province on Tuesday, railway police said. The injured passengers of the Peshawar-bound Jaffar Express, which has been attacked multiple times this year, were immediately rushed to a nearby hospital. The explosion occurred near Somarwah, close to Sultan Kot in Shikarpur district of Sindh. A rescue operation is underway at the site, police said. [] The post Railway Track Blast Derails Jaffar Express In Pakistan, Several Injured appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Dhan parent co Raise Financial Services joins unicorn club as it raises $120M from Hornbill, others
The round also included Ramesh Damani, DSP Family Office, JM Financial Family Office, Aashish Somaiyaa, and several other investors. Existing backer Beenext participated as well.
Women bear brunt of climate insecurity but are excluded from decision-making, says report
NEW DELHI: A sobering fact sheet released this month by the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI) and the Norwegian Institute of International Affairs (NUPI) highlights the disproportionate impact of climate insecurity on women and girls, while exposing their continued exclusion from peace and climate governance. The report, Climate, Peace and Security Thematic Fact Sheet: Women, Peace and Security 2025, draws on data from the UN, IPCC, and World Bank to reveal a grim reality: by 2050, climate change could push 158 million women and girls into povertysurpassing the 142 million men and boys similarly affected. Today, 26.7% of women face food insecurity compared to 25.4% of men, underscoring a persistent gender gap in vulnerability. In 2023, women accounted for 40% of civilian conflict deaths, children 30%, and men the remaining 30%, reflecting the specific and uneven risks women endure amid climate-related conflicts. These numbers lay bare the fact that climate insecurity is neither gender-neutral nor benign. The report details how womens daily survival activitiessuch as fetching water or collecting firewoodexpose them to increased abuse. Overcrowded water points provoke domestic conflict, and long journeys to distant resources heighten vulnerability to assault. Displacement intensifies these dangers; in Somalia, for example, displaced women live under a constant threat of sexual violence. Despite bearing these burdens, women also play vital roles in community resilience. In Chad, women constitute 60% of the agricultural workforce, maintaining production despite drought and land degradation. In Yemen, womens committees have successfully negotiated access to water resources with tribal leaders and military groups, easing tensions and providing critical relief. Yet, their presence in formal peace and climate decision-making remains marginal. Between 1989 and 2018, womens groups participated in just 9% of formal peace talks in Africa and the Americas and only 12% of non-violent peace initiatives. At the 2024 COP29 climate summit, women made up only 35% of delegates, while from 2015 to 2023, women held just 22% of permanent seats on the UN Security Council. The fact sheet outlines four key pathways through which climate insecurity affects women: impacts on livelihoods, migration, armed actors, and grievances. Communities reliant on farming and pastoralism face acute vulnerability to environmental shocks. Mens migration for work, observed in countries like Bangladesh, Nepal, and Mali, leaves women with heavy responsibilities amid scarce resources. Armed groups exploit these vulnerabilitiesex-combatants in Cameroon, Chad, Niger, and Nigeria cite climate pressures as recruitment drivers; in Ugandas Karamoja, drought-induced cattle losses fuel raids. Children, especially girls, are recruited in Myanmar and Sierra Leone under similar stresses, while women environmental defenders in Colombia face threats from armed and security forces linked to clean energy projects. Policy responses remain inadequate. Although over three-quarters of agricultural policies acknowledge womens roles, only 19% explicitly prioritise gender equality. National climate adaptation plans often mention gender superficially, resulting in a fragmented landscape where climate policies ignore gender, and gender policies overlook climate. The report calls for urgent measures: increased funding for grassroots womens groups via the UN Peacebuilding Fund and Green Climate Fund; stronger protections against gender-based violence and forced recruitment for displaced people; enhanced involvement of local mediators and Indigenous leaders; and integrating climate as a core issue in Women, Peace and Security national action plans. Importantly, it emphasises including men and boys in gender-responsive approaches, recognising how evolving masculinities under climate stress can either escalate conflict or promote peace. The study concludes with a stark warning: climate change amplifies existing dangers and inequalities. Without placing gender at the heart of policy, cycles of inequality and violence will intensify, undermining both peace and security.
Mumbai: Somaiya Kala Vidya marks artisan journeys at Kachchhi Virasat
Somaiya Kala Vidya's annual Kachchhi Virasat exhibition recently concluded at Cymroza Art Gallery, showcasing 30 artisan designers from Kutch and Bagalkote. The event blended heritage crafts like Ajrakh and Suf embroidery with contemporary design, marking the culmination of a year-long immersion. It empowered artisans to launch independent labels, ensuring traditional Indian crafts remain vibrant and relevant in today's markets.
Somaiya Vidyavihar University has signed a landmark memorandum of understanding with Montclair State University, New Jersey, to foster global academic and research collaborations. This partnership will open new pathways in management, nursing, and healthcare, preparing students for international careers and addressing critical workforce needs, particularly for licensed nurses.
Government Rural Siddha Hospital in Somarasanpettai to get new building
The new building is being constructed at an estimated cost of 30 lakh granted under the National AYUSH Mission and will include rooms for yoga exercises
Milind Somans 7 secrets to lean, ageless fitness revealed
At 59, Milind Soman keeps his ageless fitness with a simple daily routine, avoiding calorie counting and processed foods entirely. His focus is on natural, seasonal meals that fuel his active lifestyle. This no-fuss approach proves that consistency beats complicated diets, and it sets the tone for a sustainable, energetic life.
Omar calls activists arrest unfortunate
Srinagar: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Friday said the arrest of climate activist Soman Wangchuk was unfortunate, and accused the BJP-led NDA government of backtracking on its promises. This (Wangchuk arrest) is unfortunate. The way the Central government was after him since yesterday, it seemed they would do something like this, Abdullah told reporters on []
Omar Calls Wangchuks Arrest Unfortunate, Says Centre Didnt Keep Its Promise
Srinagar, Sep 26: Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Friday said the arrest of climate activist Soman Wangchuk was unfortunate, and accused the BJP-led NDA government of backtracking on its promises. This (Wangchuk arrest) is unfortunate. The way the Central government was after him since yesterday, it seemed they would do something like this, Abdullah told reporters on the sidelines of the inaugural ceremony of the third Junior Asian Pencak Silat championship here. Promises were made with the [] The post Omar Calls Wangchuks Arrest Unfortunate, Says Centre Didnt Keep Its Promise appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Dont want her: Trump says Somalia wont take back Ilhan Omar; she dubs him lying buffoon
Tension at Pawan Kalyan film premiere in Bengaluru as fans brandish plastic weapons
BENGALURU: Tension prevailed outside the Sandhya Theatre in Chikka Madiwala during the premiere of the Andhra Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Konidala Pawan Kalyan starrer They Call Him OG on Wednesday night when several fans brandished machetes, knives and other weapons on the road. The Madiwala police took several of the youth into custody. During investigation, the police found that the weapons were made of plastic. The police have registered an NCR against the theatre manager, Somashekar Reddy, for trying to put up a DJ set and putting up posters leading to the fans creating tension. Clear instruction was issued to the manager not to set up any DJ set for the movie release. Despite this, the DJ set was being set up on Wednesday night along with loudspeakers. Earlier, during another Telugu movie release, Kannada organisations had raised objections against the theatre for not using the Kannada language in the banners. The Madiwala Police inspector had given a notice to the manager to follow certain procedures during the film release, said an officer. The fans had brought the plastic weapons to take photographs with the cutouts. Three plastic machetes have been recovered.
V Somanna met Nitin Gadkari to speed up compensation for landowners. This is for the Satellite Town Ring Road project. The project covers the Dobbaspet- Madagapalli section. Somanna also requested early completion of national highway projects in Tumakuru. He asked for a review of the highway alignment from Mallasandra to Vasanthanarasapura.
Milind Soman shares what he has for breakfast and we now know why he looks so young at 60
Milind Soman, nearing 60, maintains his youthful energy through a simple diet rich in seasonal fruits. He emphasizes starting the day with fruits like papaya, mangoes, and bananas, avoiding processed foods. This approach, combined with wholesome lunches and dinners of dal, rice, and vegetables, contributes to his overall well-being and defies conventional aging expectations.
INTERVIEW | Focus more on active lifestyle to remain fit: Wellness icon Milind Soman
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Short bursts of physical activity spread across the day is more helpful in achieving fitness goals than rigorous exercise at one stretch, says supermodel, endurance athlete and wellness icon Milind Soman. In an exclusive chat with TNIE , Soman, 60, the new brand ambassador of Trivandrum Marathon 2025, expressed concern over the spurt in cases of people collapsing during intense exercise. He also welcomed the Kerala governments decision to introduce Zumba sessions in schools as a good start. Edited excerpts: There has been a spurt in cases recently of people collapsing in the gym while doing intense workouts. As a fitness enthusiast, what are your thoughts on that? There needs to be thorough research on this aspect. Going by the lives that we lead today, there are many things that are not conducive for good health. There could be numerous factors involved such as pollution, chemicals in the food, and bad lifestyle. Also, a key factor that is often ignored is stress. To address that, people need to adopt activities that can reduce such factors. What are the types of exercises that one should do to remain fit? Decades ago, people used to walk to school, used to work in the fields and build houses by themselves. Which means, more than exercise, we are genetically wired for activities. We have to be always active. The more you sit, the more you fall sick. Also, these activities should be focused on yourself. What about a person who does not have enough time to work out? Ive never gone to the gym. I exercise only for around 12 minutes a day and that too spread across various hours. Just stay off the couch, keep moving around as much as you can. If you have a desk job, do a set of squats for one minute after every hour. That in itself would keep you fit. When it comes to running, not all people are able to do it. Especially people who are overweight and have knee-joint issues? Overweight is an impediment. For that, you have to reduce weight gradually and then start running. Such people can start with walking and yoga, and also follow a regulated diet. These can be done till one achieves the required weight for carrying out activities such as running. Recently, the Kerala government introduced Zumba in schools. Your thoughts? Yes. Its a good start. Students will at least get the experience of Zumba, and if they are interested in the activity, they can go for Zumba classes. Its important to experience different activities so that you can choose something you enjoy. Unless you enjoy the activity, it will not be sustainable. Also, sleep is another key factor that is often ignored. Isnt rest as important as exercise? Having good sleep is very crucial. People are neglecting sleep not because of stress but due to inceased use of TV, mobile phones and social media. Its a choice and people are making the wrong choices. You are the brand ambassador of Trivandrum Marathon. What are the tips for first time runners? Not only for running, for any physical activity, you have to start gradually. Any activity is a learning experience. See how your body, mind, emotions respond to the activity and if it suits you, stick on with it.
NEW DELHI: Congress leader Manish Tewari on Tuesday referred to the recent toppling of governments in Sri Lanka, Bangladesh and Nepal and the recent protests in the Philippines to say that entitlement is no longer acceptable to Gen X, Y, Z. In his post, Tewari wrote, The toppling of - President Gotabaya Rajapaksa in Sri Lanka in July 2023, Sheikh Hasina in Bangladesh in July 2024, KP Sharma Oli in Nepal in September 2025 and now the protests against Ferdinand Marcos Jr in the Philippines have one word written over them - ENTITLEMENT IS NO LONGER ACCEPTABLE TO GEN X, Y, Z. He also said, Watch for my piece on 'The Social Media Trends' that toppled or are challenging 'DYNASTS'. Study #nepokids or #TrillionPesoMarch in the meantime. Tewari cited media reports on the recent protests in Philippines erupting over flood control fraud. The BJP latched on to Tewari's use of words like #nepokids in his post on X to say, Senior Congress leader Manish Tewari, member of the G-23 rebel group, takes aim at Rahul Gandhi - the ultimate 'Nepo Kid' of Indian politics. The remarks of Tewari were used by the BJP to attack the Congress, with its leader Amit Malviya terming Gandhi as the ultimate 'Nepokid' of Indian politics and Sambit Patra saying people of the country have already removed the epokid in 2014. Senior Congress leader Manish Tewari, member of the G-23 rebel group, takes aim at Rahul Gandhi the ultimate Nepo Kid of Indian politics. Forget Gen Z, even Congresss own veterans are fed up with his regressive politics. The revolt is now from within! https://t.co/v8HoxXKgG9 Amit Malviya (@amitmalviya) September 23, 2025 Senior Congress leader Manish Tewari, member of the G-23 rebel group, takes aim at Rahul Gandhi - the ultimate 'Nepo Kid' of Indian politics. Forget Gen Z, even Congress's own veterans are fed up with his regressive politics. The revolt is now from within, Malviya said in his post on X while responding to Tewari. Tewari, a member of the G23 rebel group within the Congress, which had questioned the leadership, hit back, saying his remarks should not be viewed as Congress versus BJP, but have serious national security implications for the country. Gosh, I just wish that some people would grow up in life. Everything does not have to be dumbed down to a Cong-BJP he-said-she-said or targeting X or Y. What is happening in South Asia and East Asia has serious National Security implications, and why it is happening needs to be understood in the correct perspective, Tewari said. BJP spokesperson Sambit Patra said, Manish Tewari has written in his article that GEN Z doesn't want a dynast. That's why there are so many conflicts going on all over the world to remove dynasties. People of India are spiritual and awakened also. They did it in 2014 itself. People of India do not take to the streets to do such things. People of India do the right thing at the right time in a very disciplined manner. So they removed the Nepo kid. Now the Nepo kid is nothing today, neither anything is going to happen in case now, Patra said.
Somalia-bound cargo ship catches fire on Gujarat coast; no casualties reported
AHMEDABAD: A Jamnagar-based cargo ship, PDI 1383 Haridasran, loaded with 950 tonnes of rice and 78 tonnes of sugar caught fire at Porbandar Port, Gujarat, on Monday morning. No casualties were reported as all 14 crew members were safely evacuated after the rescue and firefighting operations. Within moments, thick smoke and raging flames engulfed the ship, visible from a distance, raising alarm across the port. With lives secured, the burning vessel was tugged away from the port into open waters to prevent the fire from spreading to nearby ships and infrastructure. Firefighters battled the fire at sea, but the ship sustained extensive damage, leaving its future uncertain. Authorities have begun a probe to determine the cause of the fire. Relief teams continue cooling operations to prevent a flare-up.
Video: Somalia-Bound Ship Catches Fire At Gujarat's Porbandar
A ship anchored at Porbandar Subhashnagar Jetty in Gujarat caught fire on Monday. The fire dousing operation began with three fire brigade vehicles arriving at the scene, said officials.
Somalia-Bound Ship Carrying Rice, Sugar Catches Fire At Porbandar Jetty, Towed Out To Sea
Authorities later towed the ship to the middle of the sea to contain the flames.
The Minister of State for Railways inaugurates the additional RoB atop the Mangaluru-Mumbai Railway line on NH 169A at Indrali in Udupi
Drug-free India key message of Namo Yuva Run: BJP MP Tejasvi Surya
Mumbai, Sep 21: BJP Yuva Morcha chief and Lok Sabha MP Tejasvi Surya on Sunday said the drug-free India message was the most significant takeaway from the nationwide youth run organised to mark Prime Minister Narendra Modis 75th birthday. PM Modi turned 75 on September 17. Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, state minister Mangal Prabhat Lodha, Surya, and actor and fitness icon Milind Soman flagged off the run in Mumbai on Sunday morning. The BJP Yuva Morcha organised the NaMo [] The post Drug-free India key message of Namo Yuva Run: BJP MP Tejasvi Surya appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Samithi to urge Somanna for coach watering and train stabling facilities in coastal Karnataka
Introduction of Bengaluru-Udupi Vande Bharat Express and Udupi Railway Station development under Amrit Bharat Scheme will also be demanded
Somanna to inaugurate additional railway overbridge at Indrali on September 21
Minister of State for Railways V. Somanna will inaugurate the newly constructed additional railway overbridge (RoB) on Malpe-Tirthahalli National Highway 169A atop Mangaluru-Mumbai railway line at Indrali in Udupi on September 21
Magic Drain shows promise in rural sanitation at Somavaram
The pilot project is a low-cost, eco-friendly alternative to the conventional concrete drains; built using trenches lined with layers of graded stones and soak pits, the system allows household wastewater to filter naturally into the soil
Is Cancer A Genetic Disease? Here's What The Latest Research Shows
Yes, cancer is fundamentally a genetic disease, but not only a hereditary one. Most cancers arise from mutations acquired during life (somatic mutations) interacting with inherited genes and environmental exposures. Understanding this interplay expla
Rajarajeswari Medical College and Hospital celebrates 15th graduation day in Bengaluru
Union Minister V. Somanna was the chief guest
Santosh Lad accused of failing to cooperate in completing land acquisition for railway project
I will speak to Dharwad in-charge Minister again, says Minister of State for Railways V. Somanna
Minister Releases Water From Somasila Reservoir Into Pennar River
Though the reservoirs capacity has been enhanced to 78 TMC feet, water levels are being maintained at 74 TMC feet due to safety concerns: AP Endowments minister Anam Ramanarayana Reddy
Somasila Reservoir Reaches Historic Storage Level Even While Releasing Water
Farmers in Nellore treat Somasila Reservoir as their lifeline and modern temple: Reports
Minister Anam Ramanarayana Reddy releases water from Somasila Reservoir to Penna River
The government is preparing plans to set up temple tourism parks across the district as per the orders of the Chief Minister
NCLT orders ex-promoters of HNG to repay defrauded Rs 42 cr amount to debtors
NEW DELHI, Sept 13:The National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT) has directed the erstwhile promoters of Hindusthan National Glass & Industries Ltd (HNG) to return Rs 42.46 crore, misappropriated by them, to corporate debtors within two months. The Kolkata bench of the NCLT also ordered the Resolution Professional of the debt-ridden company to institute criminal prosecution against suspended directors Sanjay Somany and Mukul Somany under Section 69 of the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code. The tribunal found the transactions of Rs 42.46 [] The post NCLT orders ex-promoters of HNG to repay defrauded Rs 42 cr amount to debtors appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
BJP to organise Namo Yuva Run on September 21 to mark PM Modi's 75th birthday
NEW DELHI: The Bharatiya Janata Party has announced the organisation of the NaMo Yuva Run: For A Nasha Mukt Bharat campaign on September 21 to mark Prime Minister Narendra Modi's 75th birthday. The BJPs Yuva Morcha chief Tejasvi Surya said on Sunday, To mark the 75th birthday of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, the Bharatiya Janta Yuva Morcha is organising NaMo Yuva Run at 75 locations across the country with participation of 10,000 to 15,000 youth in every location on September 21. The initiative is also aimed to raise awareness among young people about the dangers of drug abuse and also to encourage the use of 'Swadeshi' products. Announcing the launch of the programme, Union Minister Mansukh Mandaviya said on Sunday that a similar event will be organised by the Bharatiya Yuva Diaspora in 75 cities around the world. Through this event, the youth of the country will connect with the soil (the nation) with resolve and remember the duty that Prime Minister Narendra Modi has fulfilled towards the country in the last 11 years, Mandaviya told a press conference at the BJP headquarters. Actor-model Milind Soman, who has been officially appointed as the National Run Ambassador of the initiative, was present at the press conference and praised the initiative for promoting fitness among the youth. As Prime Minister Modi turns 75 on 17 September, the NaMo Yuva Run will serve to promote his fitness mantra across the nation. Mandaviya lauded Modi's tenure as Prime Minister, stating he has given a lot to this country over the past 11 years through his houghts and work. Today, the country is progressing, marching on the path of development, and a new India is in the making under Modi's leadership, the minister added. Also speaking at the media briefing, Tejasvi Surya said, It's Prime Minister Modi's 75th birthday on September 17. Perhaps, there is no bigger icon for fitness, good health and inspiration to the youth of this country than our prime minister. Highlighting the Modi governments efforts against drugs and addiction, Surya added, About 10 lakh kg of drugs have been seized and destroyed in just one year. From 2014 to 2024, total seizure of drugs all over the country swelled up to 22 lakh kg from 3.6 lakh kg between 2004 and 2014. By citing these figures, he remarked, This is how India is fighting the war on drugs and appealed to the youth to join the battle against the drug menace.
BJYM Launches 'Namo Yuva Run' For PM Modi's 75th birthday; 1 Million Likely To Participate
BJYM launches Namo Yuva Run on September 21 at 75 locations to mark PM Narendra Modi's 75th birthday, with Milind Soman as ambassador and focus on Nasha Mukt Bharat.
'Namo Yuva Run' campaign to mark PM Modi's 75th birthday, Milind Soman announced brand ambassador
LIVE: BJP MPs M Mandaviya & Tejasvi Surya hold Joint press Conference |Fit India| Milind Soman
IFS officer in Uttarakhand sues Cabinet Secretary over false affidavit, alleges defamation
DEHRADUN: In a dramatic escalation of a long-running bureaucratic dispute, Sanjeev Chaturvedi, the prominent Uttarakhand cadre Indian Forest Service (IFS) officer and Magsaysay Award laureate, has initiated criminal proceedings against Indias top bureaucrat, Cabinet Secretary T.V. Somanathan. Chaturvedi has accused Somanathan of filing a false affidavit and making defamatory remarks in court, seeking stringent criminal action from the Nainital High Court. The High Court is scheduled to hear the petition on September 16. This legal battle stems from a controversy dating back to Chaturvedis tenure as Chief Vigilance Officer (CVO) at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), Delhi. During his time there, he initiated several high-profile corruption investigations, which later became the subject of various legal challenges. The Central Administrative Tribunal (CAT), in February 2023, ordered the production of documents related to these AIIMS corruption cases. Following alleged non-compliance, CAT initiated contempt proceedings in May 2023 against both the Cabinet Secretary and the Union Health Secretary. It is against this backdrop of alleged non-adherence to tribunal orders that the new legal challenge has emerged in the High Court. Chaturvedi has not only termed the writ petition filed by the Cabinet Secretary as baseless but also strongly objected to the allegations made within it. To substantiate his claims, he presented to the court a 2014 file noting from then Union Health Secretary Love Verma and Health Ministry CVO Vishwas Mehta. The document reportedly praised Chaturvedis integrity and dedication as outstanding. Speaking on the matter, Chaturvedi said, It is deeply unfortunate that the petition filed by the countrys Cabinet Secretary contains baseless and defamatory allegations. He added, The anti-corruption actions taken during my tenure were consistently affirmed in writing by top officials of the Health Ministry, confirming the integrity and merit of my work. The case underscores the ongoing friction between a decorated officer known for his anti-corruption stance and the highest levels of the bureaucracy, setting the stage for a closely watched legal battle in the coming weeks.
Somanna accuses Karnataka govt. of apathy; demands focus on relief, development
MLC Kavitha suspended from BRS for disciplinary violation
Hyderabad, Sep 2: The Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) today announced the suspension of MLC K. Kavitha from the party. In an official statement issued by BRS general secretaries Soma Bharat Kumar and T Ravinder Rao, it was confirmed that party president K Chandrashekar Rao (KCR) took the decision citing disciplinary violations. Kavitha, daughter of KCR [] The post MLC Kavitha suspended from BRS for disciplinary violation appeared first on Northlines .
BRS Suspends MLC K Kavitha For Anti-Party Activities
Hyderabad, Sep 2: The BRS on Tuesday suspended its MLC K Kavitha from the party for her alleged anti-party activities. Kavithas father and BRS president K Chandrasekhar Rao has decided to suspend her with immediate effect, party General Secretary T Ravinder Rao and another General Secretary (in charge for disciplinary affairs) Soma Bharat Kumar said in a communication to the media. Kavithas behaviour in recent times and her anti-party activities are hurting the BRS. The leadership has taken serious note [] The post BRS Suspends MLC K Kavitha For Anti-Party Activities appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Abundant Water In Somasila, Kandaleru Set To Irrigate 7 Lakh Acres: Somireddy
With water levels in Somasila reservoir crossing 62 TMC and Kandaleru reaching 36 TMC, farmers in Nellore district are set for a bumper agricultural season
Very few musicians like Bismillah Khan reach level of poetry in music
Sarod exponent Ustad Amjad Ali Khan believes there are some classical musicians who get into the grammar of music, others connect with its literature, but there are very few like shehnai maestro Bismillah Khan who can reach the level of poetry in their music. Khan was given the Bismillah Khan Samman at Yaad-e-Bismillah on August 20, an event organised by his disciple Soma Ghosh to commemorate the legacy of the shehnai legend, at the Indira Gandhi National Centre for the [] The post Very few musicians like Bismillah Khan reach level of poetry in music appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Supreme Court bins plea against use of TN temple land for building college
NEW DELHI: The Supreme Court on Friday declined to entertain an appeal against the Madras High Courts verdict allowing the Tamil Nadu government to utilise Sri Somanathaswamy Temples land on lease for building a government college in Kolathur in Chennai. A bench of Justices Vikram Nath and Sandeep Mehta rejected a petition filed by TR Ramesh against the HCs division bench judgment of February 20, 2025. The issue of use of temple land by the state for building educational institutes in Tamil Nadu has been a political hot potato, with the DMK government defending the move and opposition parties slamming the government for allegedly misusing temple funds and resources gifted by the faithful for non-religious activities. Chief Minister MK Stalin is the legislator of the Kolathur Assembly seat where the college is proposed to be built. The Madras HC bench in October 2024 had upheld a single judges order which stated that the proposed long-term lease of 2.50 acres of land belonging to Sri Somanathaswamy Temple in Kolathur to Sri Kapaliswarar Temple in Mylapore for 25 years to establish an arts and science college was meant for running a college and, thus, the object being a benevolent one, the petitioner can submit his written objections or suggestions against such proposed lease before the Commissioner, Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments (HR&CE) Department. The petitioner, Ramesh, had challenged the HR&CE commissioners notification issued on September 3, 2024. HR&CE notification didnt provide any details on rent fixed on land belonging to Sri Somanathaswamy temple The petitioner claimed that it was done in violation of Section 34 of the TN HR&CE Act, 1959 and Rule 2 of Alienation of Immovable Trust Property Rules, 1960. After hearing senior advocates Haripriya Padmanabhan and Jaydeep Gupta for the petitioner and the respondents, respectively, the bench said, We are not inclined to interfere with the impugned judgment/order of the High Court. Accordingly, the Special Leave Petition is dismissed. In its plea, the petitioner contended that the notification did not provide any details regarding the amount of rent fixed or the manner in which the rent would be utilized for the benefit of the Sri Somanathaswamy Temple. The petitioner had said that the impugned notification was not in accordance with the seven rules prescribed in the GO (Ms No 866) dated February 15, 1960. Min welcomes order Chennai: HR&CE Minister PK Sekarbabu on Friday thanked the SC for dismissing the plea. After the DMK government assumed office, as many as 3,503 temples have been consecrated, and the number may go up to 4,000 by January 2026, he said
The Hindu Impact: V. Somanna promises review to fast-track Bengaluru Suburban Railway Project
His assurance follows The Hindus Spotlight report published on August 29, titled A dream derailed, which highlighted the projects setbacks
Somanahalli Nagaraju elected president of HDCC for third consecutive term
Record Water Availability In Nellore, Says Anam
Speaking to the media at his Santapeta camp office, he noted that Somasila and Kandaleru reservoirs were brimming, holding 90 to 100 TMCft together.
Kulasekarapattinam launch complex expected to be ready by Dec'26: ISRO Chief
India is set to inaugurate its second launch complex in Kulasekarapattinam, Tamil Nadu, by December 2026. ISRO Chairman S. Somanath announced plans for approximately 25 annual launches of Small Satellite Launch Vehicles (SSLV), capable of carrying 500 kg payloads. This new spaceport, spanning 2300 acres, complements the existing facility in Sriharikota.
Genetic testing of IVF embryos can help women over 35 conceive faster
Genetic testing of IVF-created embryos could help more women over 35 have a baby in less time, according to a study on Monday. Researchers from Kings College London, UK, led the first randomised controlled trial worldwide to focus exclusively on women aged 35-42 a group at higher risk of producing embryos with chromosomal abnormalities. [] The post Genetic testing of IVF embryos can help women over 35 conceive faster appeared first on The Shillong Times .
Special cleanliness campaign 5.0 to prioritise e-waste disposal in government offices
NEW DELHI: This years Special Campaign on Swachhata (Cleanliness) will extend beyond routine scrap disposal and weeding out of outdated files, with a renewed focus on the removal of obsolete electrical and electronic equipment (EEE) such as defunct printers, discarded CPUs, computer monitors, and batteries occupying valuable office space. According to a note from Cabinet Secretary Dr. T.V. Somanathan sent to all ministries and departments, Special Campaign 5.0, aimed at institutionalising cleanliness and reducing pendency, will prioritise the scientific management of e-waste generated in government offices. Special attention will also be given to field and outstation offices that provide public services or maintain direct public interaction, in addition to central ministries, departments, attached and subordinate offices, autonomous bodies, and Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs). The Department of Administrative Reforms and Public Grievances (DARPG), which has led the annual initiative since its inception in 2021, has issued comprehensive guidelines for this years campaign. The month-long drive is set to begin on 2 October, focusing on cleanliness, space optimisation, and the disposal of pending matters across all government offices. This years edition will place special emphasis on the scientific disposal of e-waste in compliance with the E-Waste Management Rules, 2022. Offices will be required to identify and safely dispose of discarded computers, printers, laptops, LEDs, and other electronic equipment, said officials involved in the planning. Over the past four years, the campaign has facilitated the generation of 3,220 crore in revenue from scrap disposal, covered nearly 12 lakh sites in cleanliness efforts, and enabled the closure of over 1.37 crore files. The campaign will be carried out in two phases: The preparatory phase (1530 September) will involve the nomination of nodal officers, identification of pending matters, space management planning, assessment of scrap and e-waste, and finalisation of disposal procedures. The implementation phase will commence on 2 October, marking Mahatma Gandhis birth anniversary. During this period, offices will conduct cleanliness drives, dispose of e-waste, and clear backlogs including MPs queries, inter-ministerial notes, PMO references, and public grievances. In his directive, Dr. Somanathan emphasised the importance of leadership in ensuring the campaigns success. Your leadership and active involvement will be crucial for the success of the campaign, as seen in the past four years. Appropriate instructions may also be issued to all offices and organisations under your ministry/department for meaningful participation and successful implementation of Special Campaign 5.0, his letter to secretaries of all ministries stated.
Plantation workers pay homage to Vazhoor Soman
Peerumade MLA Vazhoor Soman passes away
He collapsed while attending a revenue assembly at PTP Nagar in Thiruvananthapuram and was rushed to a hospital but his life could not be saved.
Kerala MLA Vazhoor Soman Passes Away
The body will be taken to Peermade.
EkinCare elevates Somak Ray to co-founder from vice president of operations
Wellness company ekincare has promoted Somak Ray, previously VP of Operations, to co-founder. Ray will now spearhead operational scaling, strategic partnerships, and international expansion. Since 2016, he has been instrumental in building the company's infrastructure, including leading a large-scale vaccination initiative and expanding the provider network, contributing significantly to ekincare's growth and market presence.
Somany Ceramics halts operations at Haryana facility amid GAIL pipeline leak
Somany Ceramics has suspended operations at its Kassar plant in Haryana due to a temporary gas supply disruption from GAIL following a pipeline leakage caused by heavy rainfall. GAIL has initiated restoration work, and Somany is monitoring the situation closely. The company assures that sufficient stock is available to meet sales demand, and all other plants remain operational.
Remembering 'Sholay': Dharmendras Pranks, Romances on Set, and That Epic Climax
The most chilling scene in my opinion is the revelation of the fake coin in the climax, writes Bhawana Somaaya.
A.P. CM calls for urgent flood precautions in view of heavy rain
Emphasising efficient use of the heavy inflows, Naidu orders diversion of up to four tmc ft of floodwater daily to Somasila and Kandaleru reservoirs
Scan-and-ride in city: Urban mobility takes public e-bicycle sharing route
SHILLONG, Aug 12: The Meghalaya government on Tuesday launched Shillongs first-ever public bicycle sharing (PBS) system, marking a major milestone towards sustainable urban mobility in the hill city. Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma, along with fitness icon Milind Soman, unveiled the initiative at a special programme. The PBS project, part of the Shillong Urban Mobility [] The post Scan-and-ride in city: Urban mobility takes public e-bicycle sharing route appeared first on The Shillong Times .
86 and Thriving: Milind Somans Mom Usha Shows Youre Never Too Old to Be Fit!
Think age limits activity? Usha Soman, at 86, proves otherwise. She's a powerful example of an active and healthy lifestyle.
6 killed in air ambulance crash just outside Kenyas capital
NAIROBI, Aug 7: A plane belonging to an air ambulance service provider crashed in a residential area just outside Kenyas capital on Thursday, killing at least six people, according to a local official and the aircrafts owner. AMREF Flying Doctors said that the mid-size jet, a Cessna Citation XLS, took off from an airport in Nairobi and was heading to the territory of Somaliland when it crashed. The service provider didnt provide the number of casualties or a possible cause, [] The post 6 killed in air ambulance crash just outside Kenyas capital appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Kerala Science Award 2023 presented to S. Somanath, former chairman of the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) at R&D Summit organised by Kerala State Council for Science, Technology and Environment
S Somanath called for the establishment of dedicated manufacturing hubs across India, stressing the critical absence of a comprehensive aerospace manufacturing framework. He underscored the pressing demand for skilled technicians in tooling and related sectors, while also highlighting the supply chain challenges that impede India's rocket production capabilities.
PEC confers Honorary Doctorate upon former ISRO Chairman Dr S Somanath
Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Aug 4: In recognition of his outstanding contributions to the field of science and technology, the Punjab Engineering College (PEC), Chandigarh conferred the Degree of Doctor of Science (Honoris Causa) on Dr S Somanath, former Chairman Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), today. The ceremony was presided over by Rajinder Gupta, Chairman, Board of Governors, PEC, in the gracious presence of Prof Rajesh Kumar Bhatia, director, PEC, Prof S K Mangal (Dean Academic Affairs) and Prof Uma Batra [] The post PEC confers Honorary Doctorate upon former ISRO Chairman Dr S Somanath appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Kargil war veteran's kin alleges Hindutva activists stormed into house, asked to prove nationality
PUNE: The family members of a Kargil war veteran have alleged that a group of around 80 people affiliated to a Hindutva outfit barged into their house in Pune and demanded a proof of their Indian citizenship, accusing them of being Bangladeshis. The incident took place in Chandannagar area of the city Saturday midnight, they claimed, adding that some police personnel in plain clothes were also present at that time but they remained mute spectators. Irshad Shaikh (48) said his elder brother Hakimuddin Shaikh, who currently resides in Uttar Pradesh's Pratapgarh, served in the Indian Army and took part in the Kargil war. He retired as a havildar from the Engineers Regiment in 2000. While my elder brother lives in Uttar Pradesh, I, along with my two brothers and their children, have been living in Pune's Chandannagar area for the last many decades, he said. On Saturday midnight, around 80 people suddenly came to the house and began banging on the door. When the family opened it, some of them barged in and started demanding Aadhaar cards of the family members. When they showed the documents, the group termed them as fake and asked the women and children to produce Aadhaar cards, Shaikh alleged. He said they tried to explain to the group that the family had been residing there for the last 60 years and that apart from his elder brother, two of his uncles had also served in the army. But members of the group were in no mood to listen. They hurled abuses and accused us of being Bangladeshis. I told them that if they want to investigate, they are welcome to do so, but barging into someone's house, hurling abuses and forcing children to show documents at midnight was not appropriate, he said. Shaikh claimed that when the group of Hindutva activists began chanting 'Jai Shree Ram' and tried to force the family members to come to the police station, two individuals accompanying them identified themselves as policemen. During the entire episode, these two policemen in plain clothes stood by silently and did not do anything, he said. He also alleged that when they reached the Chandannagar police station, the woman police inspector took their documents and asked them to wait outside. After making us wait for two hours, the officer told us to visit again the next day and warned that if we fail to do so, we would be declared Bangladeshi nationals, Shaikh said. He added that they visited the police station again the next day. We were asked not to make an issue out of the incident and not to file any complaint. Police are now trying to pressure us and show that no one barged into our house, Shaikh, who works in the transport sector, said. If there were any discrepancies in the documents, the police would have taken coercive action, he said. But since all our documents are genuine, they are now asking us to stay quiet, he claimed, adding that he told the officers they could provide a proof of their Indian citizenship dating back to 400 years. Several members of the family had served in the Indian army, Shaikh said. My uncle was injured in the 1971 war after a bomb explosion and was awarded for his valour. Another uncle fought alongside Abdul Hameed during the Indo-Pak War of 1965, he added. Shaikh said they approached social activist Rahul Dambale, who helped them contact a senior police officer. The officer assured action in the matter, but even after three to four days, no steps have been taken, he alleged. Speaking to PTI, Hakimuddin Shaikh, who served in the Engineers Regiment, said what happened to his family in Pune was wrong. We have been living in Pune for over 50 years. While living in Pune, my uncle Mohammad Salim was recruited into the Indian Army. What happened with my family was wrong, and if needed, I will speak to the police and seek an explanation, he said. However, Deputy Commissioner of Police (Zone 4) Somay Munde asserted that no such incident involving a large group barging into Shaikh's house took place. He, however, said that some police personnel did visit the place to verify their documents. The drive against illegal Bangladeshi nationals is underway in the city. Under this drive, police received some information and went to the house to verify it. Since it was night, no women were brought to the police station and only some male members were asked to accompany the police. As it was late, they were asked to come back the next day. Prima facie, no illegality was found in their documents, Munde said. The police team that visited the house has video footage of the inquiry, he added. Meanwhile, Dambale, president of the National Conference for Minority, said the Hindutva outfit members tried to terrorise the war veteran's family members. We have sought registration of an FIR in this connection. We will meet Pune Commissioner of Police Amitesh Kumar to demand action, he said.
Jiribam killings case: Manipur HC directs NIA to file charge sheet
Imphal: The Manipur High Court directed the NIA to file within one month the charge sheet in the killing of three women and three children in Jiribam in November last year. A division bench comprising Chief Justice K Somasekhar and Justice Ahanthem Bimol Singh gave the direction while hearing a PIL on Thursday. Subsequent to 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 .
Heavy rain lashes Delhi, IMD warns of intense showers across India till August 4
NEW DELHI: Heavy rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms affected several regions of Delhi, providing a respite from the prevailing humid weather conditions on Tuesday morning. IMD predicts heavy rainfall across India until August 4. Northwest India, including East Rajasthan and Himachal Pradesh, is expected to experience extremely heavy rainfall on July 29, with heavy showers in Uttarakhand, Punjab, and Haryana. West India, including Konkan and Gujarat, will see isolated heavy rain on July 29 and light to moderate showers for 6-7 days. Northeast India, including Assam and Arunachal Pradesh, is expected to experience heavy to very heavy rainfall. East and Central India, including Bihar and Madhya Pradesh, will experience isolated heavy rain and thunderstorms. South Peninsular India, including Kerala and Coastal Karnataka, is expected to experience heavy rain on July 29-30, accompanied by strong winds (40-50 kmph). Light to moderate rain and thunderstorms are likely across most regions for the next week. Meanwhile, Air India has issued a travel advisory warning passengers of potential disruptions to flight operations to and from Delhi on Tuesday morning due to gusty winds and rain. The airline urged travellers to check their flight status before heading to the airport and to allow extra time for their journey. Gusty wind and rain may impact flight operations to and from Delhi this morning. Please check your flight status before heading to the airport and allow extra time for your journey, Air India posted on X. According to IMD, it is forecasted that there will be fairly widespread to widespread rainfall over Northwest, Northeast, and Eastern India during the next few days. Scattered to fairly widespread rainfall is also likely over Central and Peninsular India. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecasted heavy to very heavy rainfall at isolated places over East Rajasthan on Wednesday (i.e July 30). Heavy rainfall is also very likely at isolated locations in Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Meghalaya, Bihar, Chhattisgarh, Himachal Pradesh, Jammu and Kashmir, Ladakh, Gilgit-Baltistan, Muzaffarabad, Jharkhand, Kerala, Mahe, Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, West Bengal, Sikkim, and West Rajasthan on Wednesday. On July 30, Thunderstorms accompanied by lightning and gusty winds (30-40 kmph) are very likely at isolated places in Bihar, Gangetic West Bengal, Jammu and Kashmir, Ladakh, Gilgit-Baltistan, and Muzaffarabad, as well as Jharkhand. Additionally, thunderstorms with lightning are expected at isolated locations in Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Meghalaya, Chhattisgarh, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, Nagaland, Manipur, Mizoram, Tripura, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, and Vidarbha. Strong surface winds are anticipated at isolated places in Andhra Pradesh, Kerala, Mahe, and Lakshadweep. Squally winds with speeds of 45-55 kmph, gusting to 65 kmph, are likely along and off the coasts of Somalia, Yemen, south Oman, westcentral and eastcentral Arabian Sea, southwest Arabian Sea, and southern parts of the north Arabian Sea. Squally weather with wind speeds of 40-50 kmph, gusting to 60 kmph, is expected over parts of the east-central Arabian Sea, along and off the Konkan, Goa, and Karnataka coasts. Similar conditions with winds of 45-55 kmph, gusting to 65 kmph, are forecast along and off Gujarat and adjoining northeast Arabian Sea.
Royal Challenge American Prides Rodeo Nights Makes Statement in Hyderabad
Hosted at Aqua, The Park, in Somajiguda, Hyderabad, the event was crafted to spark curiosity and raise a toast to the American spirit among young, urban consumers.
Telangana HC Inaugurates Legal Services Clinic for Defence Personnel, Ex-Servicemen and Families
After inauguration of the clinic at the Sainik Welfare Office at Somajiguda, Justice Sam Koshy said that the clinic was established with a pious cause to extend legal assistance that defence personnel, their dependents and ex-servicemen and their family members require.
Relief For MIAL: Bombay High Court Rules in Favour Over Celebi Replacement
A bench of Justice Somasekhar Sundaresan said the interim protection granted in May cannot be continued as the Delhi HC earlier this month dismissed Celebis petition against similar contract termination of the Delhi airport and revocation of security clearance.
Veerashaiva Lingayat mutts of Guru, Virakta traditions should come together: Somanna
The Minister of State for Railways has emphasised the need for the coming together of these mutts in the interest of the community
Insider track | Diplomatic glitz at Sangh Soiree
Mark your calendars and perhaps, your diplomatic protocols. If things go as planned, New Delhis diplomatic circuit may find itself sitting front row at an event hosted not by the Ministry of External Affairs, but by the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS). In what could be a first, officials from various embassies (with the predictable exception of our western neighbour, Pakistan) are being invited to a three-day lecture series by the RSS. The occasion? The Sangh is gearing up to celebrate 100 years of its existence, and its kicking things off with lecture marathons in Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, and Bengaluru. The Delhi edition will open the series at Vigyan Bhawan on August 26, with Mohan Bhagwat, the RSS Sarsanghchalak himself, delivering the inaugural address. Were reaching out to various embassies to join us in this lecture series and hope they respond positively, said a senior RSS functionary, sounding both hopeful and diplomatic. The idea, it seems, is to bring together diplomats, scholars, and the capitals whos who to talk about key issues concerning Bharat and perhaps to showcase the Sanghs intellectual side. And no, this isnt just another round of speeches and samosas. Theres a clear message brewing: The Sanghs chief lecture will give us a new direction which we are following for a powerful and viksit Bharat, said the functionary, firmly, and the RSS is aiming for soft power points. Poll plunge for IAS close to Nitish With double engine governments at the Centre and in Bihar, it hardly took a month to approve the VRS application of 2010 batch IAS officer Dinesh Kumar Rai. He is considered a close confidant of Bihar CM Nitish Kumar, and the grapevine in Delhi and Patna suggests that he will contest the upcoming assembly polls on the ruling JD(U) ticket from a constituency in Sahabad district. Incidentally, Rai was scheduled to superannuate from the service in January 2026,but he applied for the VRS on June 13, 2025, and the Union government through the Department of Personnel & Training obliged him with effect from July 15, 2025. At the time of leaving the job, Rai, a Bihar Administrative Service officer promoted to IAS, was serving as Secretary, Revenue and Land Reforms. Earlier, he was also in the CMO. Fighting radicalisation in prisons The Modi government has flagged growing radicalisation in prisons as a serious concern and has asked states and UTs to counter it effectively. In a circular, the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) urged prison authorities to develop standardised screening tools to assess inmates behaviour, associations, and ideological leanings at the time of admission. States have been advised to work closely with law enforcement and intelligence agencies to identify inmates who may pose a radical influence on others. The MHA also recommended setting up independent high-security prison complexes to house hardened and radicalised offenders, including terrorists. Seeking ASI help for Agra Metro Facing tepid ridership on the newly launched Agra Metro, the Uttar Pradesh Metro Rail Corporation (UPMRC) has sought help from the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) to boost visibility and attract more commuters, particularly tourists. Despite its first corridor partially connecting major landmarks like the Taj Mahal, Agra Fort, Sikandara, and Mankameshwar Temple, the metro is struggling to draw riders. UPMRC cited low public awareness and limited access to route and service information as key reasons behind the underwhelming response. To fix this, it has requested ASIs support in displaying promotional videos and pamphlets at protected monuments and on the ASIs official website. The aim is to inform both tourists and locals about the metros connectivity, timings, and convenience. A slice of civility for the civil service Well, heres a refreshing memo from the top: bureaucrats must meet real people. Yes, the corridors of power may soon echo with the unfamiliar sound of citizens walking in not for selfies or ceremonial cups of tea, but for honest-to-goodness conversations about problems, policies, and the odd grievance. This directive comes straight from Cabinet Secretary T.V. Somanathan, who seems to have had enough of the closed-door culture that has crept into the senior bureaucracy. Theres a perceived reluctance among many senior officials to meet anyone outside their echo chamber of government colleagues. The keyword here is perceived, but one suspects that perception and reality may not be far apart. In a letter now circulating in babudom, Somanathan reminds secretaries of all ministries that meeting members of the public is not optional and, importantly, should take place within official premises, not in clubs, hotels, or over a quiet drink at the gymkhana. (Yes, someone had to spell that out.) Such interactions can offer valuable insights into ground realities, help clarify miscommunications, and even lead to better ideas, he gently noted. One can imagine several startled secretaries mentally clearing an hour of their packed schedules. To be fair, the letter acknowledges that senior officers are pressed for time, but argues that even limited engagement with the public can go a long way in bridging gaps between policy and perception. If needed, another official can sit in on the meeting just in case things get too real.
Alternate route to strategic Depsang, DBO to be operational by end of 2026
NEW DELHI: An alternate route to the strategically significant Depsang and Daulet Beg Oldie (DBO) is in advanced stages of development and expected to become fully operational from November 2026. The new road, which runs almost parallel to the existing Darbuk--Shyok--Daulet Beg--Oldie (DSDBO) road, follows the alignment of Sasoma--Saser La--Saser Brangsa--Gapshan--DBO. Presently the Darbuk-Shyok-Daulet Beg-Oldie (DSDBO) exists as the only road link for the forces, which is under the direct observation of the Chinese forces at some locations. The strategically important 255-km DSDBO road ends at 16,614 ft high DBO, about 20 km short of the 18,700-ft high KK Pass. It has around 37 bridges, of various lengths and width, making the communication smooth. The alternate road to DBO, which is about 130-km-long, has a total of 9 bridges of 40T capacity. Sources close to the development said: We have completed everything from Sasoma to Saser Brangsa and ahead of it, eastward---Murgo and Gapshan---over 70 per cent work is done. We are certain that the entire stretch will be operational by October-November next year. For the forces, the new route will give another communication line and facilitate faster troop-armament movement. Almost all artillery weapons, including the Bofors were moved on this axis till Saser Brangsa to test its carrying load capacity, sources said. The new road will also beef up the Siachen battlefield, as it branches off from Sasoma in the Nubra Valley, which is on the route to the Siachen Base Camp from Leh. The route will converge with the Darbuk-Shyok-DBO road at Murgo, reducing the distance from Leh to DBO by 79 km from 322-km via DSDBO road to 243-km via the new road. It will also reduce the travel time from 2 days to 11-12 hours. The work on strengthening the bridges is also on. We are also converting the existing 40T capacity bridges into 70T capacity bridges. Once they are completed, the army will be able to deploy heavier vehicles, and other armoured vehicles, which are crucial for offensive and defensive operations, particularly in challenging terrains. Plans are afoot to make it an all-weather road, the Border Road Organisation (BRO) is also building a 8-km-long tunnel at Saser La at 17,660-feet high and currently it is at detailed project report (DPR) stage. It will take 4-5 years to complete the tunnel project. BRO's projects Himank and Vijayak are responsible for construction and maintenance of critical road infrastructure in Ladakh. India shares 832 km long Line of Actual Control with China in eastern Ladakh. From Sasoma to Saser Brangsa, the construction work is being looked at by the BROs Project Vijayak, involving a cost of Rs 300 crore. Ahead of Saser Brangsa till DBO, the BROs Project Himank is mandated to build the road and bridges, costing Rs 200 crore. The alternate route will have larger accrued military benefits on-ground: the deployment of troops, weapons and logistics to forward bases in DBO and other areas would become easier since Siachen base camp is near. The Siachen base camp functions as the third stage of acclimatisation, which is crucial due to high-altitude and low oxygen levels. With acclimatisation, the human body adjusts to the lower oxygen levels and reduces the risk of altitude sickness. This makes the base camp crucial for effective deployment and improved troop efficiency. The momentum for the second road to DBO picked up as the military tensions between India and China escalated. TNIE broke this story in May 2020, as skirmish took place between the PLA Troops and Indian Army soldiers both sides mobilised a large body of troops in a standoff mode since May 2020. Although disengagement, moving back from the standoff location, from all friction points have taken place the troops remain in the vicinity. Significance of the new road The new road is significant as it will serve as an alternate route to the existing DSDBO road, which is vulnerable to the PLAs direct line of sight and can be threatened, as happened in Galwan during critical times. The Galwan valley is on the same stretch, and the Chinese had carried out a build-up along the Galwan River valley during the stand-off. This also led to violent clashes between the two sides in June 2020, resulting in the killing of soldiers from both sides. This new route will give an alternate and safe access to the militarily important Sub Sector North (SSN), which includes DBO and Depsang plains. SSN, which includes Depsang, is strategically vital. Depsang is also a crucial link to Siachen and the Daulat Beg Oldie (DBO) airfield, the highest in the world at an altitude of 5065 metres (16,614 feet). The terrain permits large-scale armour operations, and China has multiple roads supplying the area, while India has only the DSDBO Road. There are 65 patrolling points along the LAC in eastern Ladakh, stretching from the south of the Karakoram Pass to the southern part of Demchok. The roads strategic importance is that it connects Leh to DBO, virtually at the base of the Karakoram Pass that separates Chinas Xinjiang Autonomous Region from Ladakh, the source said. Although disengagement at Depsang took place, in October 2024, it had triggered the Indian side to beef up its line of communication. The standoff at Depsang was significant and sensitive, as Chinese troops blocked access to five patrolling points -- 10, 11, 11A, 12, and 13. The blocked area was around 952 sq. km, according to sources. The five patrolling points in question are east of the strategic Sub-Sector North road, close to the LAC but within Indian territory. The bailey bridge to Hot Spring being assembled by BRO personnel. What is Line of Actual Control? Undemarcated borders between India and China, where both countries exercise actual control on ground and have differing perceptions, is the Line of Actual Control (LAC) with a length of 3,488km. It is further defined into 3 sectors Western (Eastern Ladakh), Central sector (Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand), Eastern Sector (Sikkim, Arunachal Pradesh). The current focus area under tension is Eastern Ladakh (832km). To strengthen connectivity and bolster strategic infrastructure in border regions, the Government of India established the Border Roads Organisation in 1960. With the ongoing threat perception involving the western and northern borders and in order to step up the pace of work in remote and high-altitude areas, the BRO has been shifting heavy machines close to the construction sites. It has been carrying out upgrades of technology, equipment, and engineering skills. Border Roads Organisation is concentrating simultaneously on the Northern and North-Eastern Borders and for the holistic development of roads in border areas. ]The tensions prevail specifically along the eastern Ladakh and there is precautionary deployment all along the claimed 3,488 kms long Line of Actual Control. More than 1,20,000 soldiers of the Indian army and PLA amassed along the LAC with heavy equipment like missiles, artillery, and tanks. Roads prove integral to maintain such heavy deployment, however, the high altitude and rarefied atmosphere makes construction activities difficult.
Be accessible to people: Cabinet secretary tells senior bureaucrats
Cabinet Secretary T V Somanathan has urged Union government secretaries to be more accessible to non-officials, addressing concerns about a perceived reluctance to grant appointments. He emphasized that meetings with individuals from diverse backgrounds can offer valuable insights, clarify misunderstandings, and facilitate better policy implementation. Officials are encouraged to hold these meetings in their offices.
Somalians shouldnt run for office in US: Hate floods in as Omar Fateh runs for Minneapolis mayor
Cabinet Secretary T V Somanathan asks top officers to meet non-officials
Cabinet Secretary T V Somanathan has advised senior government officers to meet non-official individuals seeking appointments, stating that such interactions are key to understanding on-ground realities and correcting miscommunications.
Patel power play as AAP challenges BJP Gujarat citadel
AHMEDABAD : The political battleground in Gujarat is witnessing a renewed churn around the influential Patidar community, with multiple players vying for dominance in this electoral bloc. While the BJP continues to command a grip on the Patel vote bank, bolstered by its top leadership comprising influential Patidar figures, emerging challenges from the AAP and internal lobbying within the Congress are beginning to shift the political discourse. The AAP, under the leadership of Gopal Italia, has stepped up efforts to erode the BJPs dominance in the Patidar belt. Though the Congress has failed to make a lasting dent in the BJPs support among Patels, it is currently witnessing a power tussle within its own state unit. While its Patidar leaders are pushing for a Patel to be appointed as the new state Congress president, a counter-lobby led by the OBC bloc is pressing for an OBC leader to take charge. A political confrontation has turned Morbi into the epicentre of Gujarats electoral drama. The spark came when BJP MLA Kanti Amrutiya, during a public event, challenged AAPs Gopal Italia to contest elections from his Morbi seat. Amrutiya vowed to resign from the assembly on Monday and even pledged Rs 2 crore to Italia if he managed to win. If he has the support of the Patidar community, let him prove it in Morbi, Amrutiya asserted. Vankaner BJP MLA Jitu Somani threw his weight behind Amrutiyas challenge. If Italia wins from Morbi, I will resign from my seat in Vankaner. Let him put in his papers on Monday and enter the ring, Somani declared. Gopal Italia accepted the challenge in a video response. If the BJP MLAs truly resign, Im ready to contest. One must not go back on their word. I accept this challenge, Italia expressed.
Somanna flags off extended train service
KCR admitted to hospital again in one week
Hyderabad: Former Telangana Chief Minister and Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) president K. Chandrasekhar Rao was again admitted to a private hospital here for medical investigations. The 71-year-old leader was admitted to Yashoda Hospital, Somajiguda, on Thursday on the advice of doctors. He was accompanied by his wife Shobha, nephew and former Minister T. Harish Rao 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 official announcement was made during the inauguration of Zohos Kottarakkara campus, which was presided over by Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan and Finance Minister K N Balagopal. Also present were Zoho US Co-founder Tony Thomas, Zoho Chief Scientist Sridhar Vembu, Member of Parliament Kodikunnil Suresh, Kerala Startup Mission CEO Anoop Ambika, and former ISRO Chairman Dr S Somanath.
Ex-Telangana CM KCR discharged from Hyderabad hospital after brief stay
LHyderabad: Telanganas former chief minister K Chandrashekar Rao (KCR) was released from Somajigudas Yashoda Hospital, Hyderabad, following short hospitalization for general weakness and co-morbid health issues. KCR was rushed to the hospital late at night on July 3 reporting weakness and fatigue. He was found to have high blood sugar and low sodium levels in 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 .
Somany Ceramics Cut To 'Add' As HDFC Securities Sees Limited Upside After Recent Rally
HDFC Securities downgrades Somany to Add, owing to stock price rally in the past month.
Migrant Workers Body Reaches Native Place From Israel
Telangana Israel Association president Soma Ravi said that Ravinders last rites were conducted on Wednesday.
Union Minister of State for Railways V Somanna on Friday said train fares will be raised in stages without affecting the commuters. The minister also said that discussions for the changes are going on. July will see some major changes in tickets including Aadhar-based authentication.
Maharashtra's Deputy CM Ajit Pawar is emerging as a voice of restraint. He intervened in Kirit Somaiya's mosque visits after Muslim groups objected. Pawar also opposed the promotion of Hindi in primary schools. He criticised VHP and Bajrang Dal's role in Nagpur riots. This stance sparks debate about his motives and NCP(A)'s identity.
Appealing to the Chief Minister to safeguard the States water rights over the Godavari and Krishna rivers, it insists on accelerating the PolavaramSomasila interlink, completing the ongoing Rayalaseema projects, and protecting the constitutional and tribunal-based entitlements
Andhra Pradeshs space policy aims at attracting 25,000 crore investment, generating 35,000 jobs
Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu gives the green signal for development of two Space Cities at Lepakshi and Tirupati; Andhra Pradeshs timely policy intervention will give it a competitive edge in the expanding space economy, says Honorary Adviser and former ISRO Chairman Somanath
Gujarat Congress Vice President Hira Jotva grilled by police over Rs 7.3 crore MNREGA scam
AHMEDABAD: An assistant project manager has flagged a shocking MNREGA scam worth Rs 7.3 crore across villages in Gujarat's Bharuch district, Amod, Jambusar, and Hansot Taluka. Acting on the complaint, Bharuch police have now summoned Congress leader Hira Jotva from Gir Somnath for questioning. Sources indicate that police may move toward arresting him following the interrogation. The Rs 7.30 crore fraud, spanning 430 development works across 56 villages in Amod, Jambusar, and Hansot talukas, was first flagged on May 30 by a government official from the Gram Vikas Agency, who filed a formal complaint at Bharuchs A Division Police Station. The investigation zeroed in on two Veraval-based firms Shri Jalaram Enterprise and Muralidhar Enterprise contracted for supplying material under MNREGA projects. These agencies allegedly manipulated records, provided substandard material, and bypassed mandatory manual labour by using machines, thereby violating the core principles of the rural employment scheme and causing massive losses to the state exchequer. Police identified Piyush Nukani, owner of Shri Jalaram Enterprise, and Jodhabhai Sabhad, owner of Muralidhar Enterprise, as key players in the racket. Crucially, both are reported to have close ties to senior Congress leader Hira Jotwani a link that has now drawn political attention to the case. Following the FIR, Bharuch SP formed a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to probe the scandal. The SIT, after recording statements from workers and agency staff, summoned Hira Jotva to Bharuch for questioning regarding his association with the two contractors. Officials are probing whether Jotva played any role in facilitating or shielding the scam. However, at the time of writing, police have not officially declared whether Hira Jotva has been officially arrested or detained. Bharuch Congress Leader Sandeep Mangrola said, Hira Jotva was detained from Gir Somanth, and police are bringing him here at Bharuch for questioning. Hira Jotva is a prominent face in Gujarat Congress politics. He contested the 2024 Lok Sabha elections from Junagadh and had earlier fought the 2022 Assembly polls from Keshod. He also served as the General Secretary of the Gujarat Pradesh Congress Committee (GPCC) from 2019 to 2023 and is currently its Vice President. As questioning continues, the police are examining financial trails and political connections to determine the full scale and backing behind the scam. Legal proceedings are underway, and more detentions could follow based on emerging evidence.
Set to release in theatres on July 25, the anthology film also features Santhanam, Guru Somasundaram, Robo Shankar and Bala Saravanan in special supporting roles
Top HSC Performers Honoured at Somaiya Vidyavihar University's Academic Excellence Ceremony
admission.somaiya.edu/svuet .
India second after Nigeria on largest number of unvaccinated children: Lancet
NEW DELHI: A whopping 1.44 million children in India did not receive a single shot of any routine vaccination in 2023, a new global study published Wednesday in The Lancet said. The study also stated that India recorded the second-highest number of zero-dose childrendefined as those lacking access to or never reached by routine immunisation services after Nigeria. India also stood among the eight countries, along with Nigeria and Ethiopia, where more than half of the unvaccinated children from around the world lived as of 2023, according to an analysis by the Global Burden of Disease Study Vaccine Coverage Collaborators. The report said that more than half of the 15.7 million global zero-dose children resided in just eight countries, with Nigeria topping the list with the largest number of unvaccinated children (2.5 million), followed by India (1.4 million), the Democratic Republic of Congo (882,000), Ethiopia (782,000), Somalia (710,000), Sudan (627,000), Indonesia (538,000) and Brazil (452,000), thus emphasising persistent inequities. In India, the Universal Immunisation Programme provides vaccination against 12 diseases, which are offered to children free of cost. The report stated that achieving coverage of 90 percent or greater for each of the life-course vaccines all three doses of the diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis (DTaP) vaccine, two measles vaccines, and the pneumococcal vaccine is the central target for 2030. Only 18 of 204 countries have already met this target. It also said that children who had never received a routine childhood vaccine further fell by 75 percent fall, from 58.8 million in 1980 to 14.7 million in 2019, before the Covid-19. The Covid-19 pandemic exacerbated these challenges, with global rates for these vaccines declining sharply since 2020 and still not returning to pre-COVID-19 pandemic levels as of 2023, it added. It noted that substantial increases in coverage are necessary in many countries and territories, with those in sub-Saharan Africa and south Asia facing the greatest challenges. The study suggested strengthening primary healthcare systems, addressing vaccine misinformation and hesitancy, and adapting to local contexts as essential to advancing coverage. The report said that measles vaccination coverage declined in 100 of 204 countries between 2010 and 2019. In 1980, 53.5 percent of children who had never received a routine childhood vaccine, or zero-dose children, lived in just five countries, India, China, Indonesia, Pakistan, and Bangladesh. But by 2019, 52.8 percent of zero-dose children still lived in only seven countries, namely, Nigeria, India, Ethiopia, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Brazil, Somalia, and Pakistan, it highlighted. The report said although delivering routine childhood vaccinations worldwide requires a tremendous investment of global resources, including approximately $3.9 billion in development assistance for health in 2023, childhood immunisation has proven to be one of the most successful and cost-effective public health strategies known, both in terms of lives saved and return on investment. The study provided updated global, regional, and national estimates of routine childhood vaccine coverage from 1980 to 2023 for 204 countries and territories for 11 vaccine-dose combinations recommended by World Health Organisation for all children globally.
