India crowned Womens Kabaddi World Cup champions again
India secured the Women's Kabaddi World Cup 2025. They defeated Chinese Taipei in the final. This marks India's second consecutive title. The team showed discipline and aggression throughout the tournament. Five players from Himachal Pradesh played key roles. Captain Ritu Negi and vice-captain Pushpa Rana led the squad. India's victory reinforces its dominance in women's kabaddi.
Himachal Pradesh Cabinet approved a Rs 1 lakh hike in disaster relief, raising compensation for destroyed homes to Rs 8 lakh. Major recruitment drives for health, police, and engineering roles were also cleared. The government also greenlit a 40% subsidy for electric taxi conversions. Discussions on Panchayat elections continue, with the matter currently in court.
Himachal Pradesh Cabinet approved a Rs 1 lakh hike in disaster relief, raising compensation for destroyed homes to Rs 8 lakh. Major recruitment drives for health, police, and engineering roles were also cleared. The government also greenlit a 40% subsidy for electric taxi conversions. Discussions on Panchayat elections continue, with the matter currently in court.
SMPP Enters into Teaming Agreement with KNDS for KATANA
SMPP , one of India’s leading defence and aerospace companies, has entered into a teaming agreement through its subsidiary SMPP Ammunition with KNDS for the KATANA® range of precision-guided artillery ammunition. The KATANA® is a 155mm precision-guided munition designed to deliver high accuracy and extended range, addressing critical operational needs of modern artillery systems. The agreement was signed on 20 th November 2025 at Milipol Exhibition in Paris. Finalisation of Teaming agreement by SMPP with KNDS The KATANA® family product includes KATANA® Ballistic Range (BR), Extended Range (ER) and High Precision (HP) with laser seeker ammunition. The KATANA family of ammunition offers a full-calibre Precision Guided Munition with extended capabilities to address armoured threats with decametric-level precision and leverages a hybrid guidance system that combines multi-constellation receiver (GNSS) and an Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU) to ensure accuracy across diverse terrains and combat environments. A future variant is expected to incorporate a semi-active laser seeker to achieve metric-level precision for even more demanding mission profiles. The fire-and-forget capability further enhances its effectiveness in complex operational scenarios, including densely populated urban areas. Under the teaming agreement, SMPP and KNDS will focus on offering the KATANA® family of ammunition to the Indian Army under the Make in India policy, strengthening India’s capability in advanced artillery ammunition and addressing a key operational requirement for the Indian Armed Forces. This agreement comes at a time when the Indian Army has an extensive and urgent requirement for 155mm artillery systems and ammunition. SMPP Limited, founded in 1985, is one of India’s leading defence and aerospace manufacturers with a diverse product portfolio that includes personnel protection, platform armouring, medium & large calibre ammunition & unmanned aerial systems (armed/ surveillance) and their respective payloads. The company is actively expanding into new areas critical to India’s defence preparedness. Headquartered in New Delhi, SMPP operates advanced manufacturing facilities in Haryana and Himachal Pradesh. KNDS Ammo France belongs to KNDS Group which is a European land defence systems leader. As prime contractor and lead system integrator KNDS develop, deliver and sustain state of the art manned and unmanned ‘system-of-systems’, complete mission solutions and its main systems and sub-platforms, including the related ammunitions and services.
From small-town lawyer to pinnacle of judiciary, 53rd CJI Surya Kant delivered many key verdicts
NEW DELHI: Justice Surya Kant, who took oath as the 53rd Chief Justice of India on Monday, has been part of several key verdicts, including orders on Presidential Reference on removing timelines for governors, abrogation of Article 370, Bihar electoral roll revision , the Pegasus spyware case, free speech, and citizenship rights. Coming from a middle-class family in Haryana's Hisar district, CJI Kant started his professional journey as a small-town lawyer before reaching the pinnacle of the Indian judiciary. He took oath in Hindi in the name of God, and will remain in charge for nearly 15 months, till demitting office on February 9, 2027, on attaining the age of 65. Delineating his top two priorities as the head of the judiciary, CJI Kant recently told the media that dealing with a huge backlog of more than five crore cases across courts and promoting game changer mediation as an alternative mode of dispute resolution will be his two important goals. CJI Kant was recently part of a five-judge Constitution bench headed by his predecessor Justice B R Gavai, which ruled that the court cannot impose any timelines on governors or the president to grant assent to Bills passed by the state assemblies, but at the same time said governors do not have unfettered powers to sit on the Bills for perpetuity. CJI Kant also penned several notable judgments in the Punjab and Haryana High Court, and was appointed the chief justice of the Himachal Pradesh High Court on October 5, 2018. His tenure as a Supreme Court judge is marked by verdicts on the abrogation of Article 370, free speech and citizenship rights. He was part of the bench that kept the colonial-era sedition law in abeyance, directing that no new FIRs be registered under it until a government review. CJI Kant also nudged the Election Commission to disclose the details of 65 lakh voters excluded from the draft electoral rolls in Bihar while hearing a batch of petitions challenging the poll panel's decision to undertake a Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of voter list in the poll-bound state. In an order that emphasised grassroots democracy and gender justice, he led a bench that reinstated a woman sarpanch unlawfully removed from office and called out the gender bias in the matter. He is also credited with directing that one-third of seats in bar associations, including the Supreme Court Bar Association, be reserved for women. CJI Kant was part of the bench that appointed a five-member committee headed by former top court judge Justice Indu Malhotra to probe the security breach during Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Punjab in 2022, saying such matters required a judicially trained mind. He also upheld the 'One Rank-One Pension' scheme for defence forces, calling it constitutionally valid, and continues to hear petitions of women officers in the armed forces seeking parity in permanent commission. In another notable case, he upheld the Char Dham project in Uttarakhand, emphasising its strategic importance for national security, while balancing environmental concerns. His bench also observed that freedom of speech is not a licence to flout societal norms while cautioning podcaster Ranveer Allahbadia for his derogatory remarks. CJI Kant headed a bench which pulled up several stand-up comedians, including 'India's Got Latent' host Samay Raina, for ridiculing disabled people on their shows, and directed the Centre to come up with guidelines for regulating online content. Holding that freedom of speech is not absolute , CJI Kant led a bench which pulled up Madhya Pradesh minister Vijay Shah for his remarks targeting Colonel Sofiya Qureshi, who gained nationwide prominence for media briefings on 'Operation Sindoor', saying every word uttered by a minister has to be with a sense of responsibility. He has repeatedly underscored that corruption undermines governance and public trust. In a 2023 verdict, he called it a serious societal threat and ordered the CBI to probe 28 cases exposing an unholy nexus between banks and developers that defrauded homebuyers. He also led a bench that granted bail to former Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal in the CBI excise policy case, saying the agency must work to dispel the notion of being a caged parrot. His bench flagged the absence of a legal framework for domestic workers, directing the Centre to form an expert committee to propose protective measures for the vulnerable workforce. He has been part of more than 300 benches since his elevation to the Supreme Court. CJI Kant was also on the seven-judge bench that overruled the 1967 Aligarh Muslim University verdict, opening the way for reconsideration of its minority status. He was also part of the bench which in 2021 appointed a three-member panel of cyber experts to probe the alleged use of Israeli spyware Pegasus for surveillance of certain people in India, saying the state cannot get a free pass every time the spectre of national security is raised and it cannot be the ugbear that the judiciary shies away from. High Courts must respond quickly and accurately, just like emergency wards in hospitals: Justice Surya Kant
Wifes final salute and a heartbreaking farewell; Wg Cdr Syal cremated
PTI | Shimla Sobbing inconsolably, the IAF officer wife of Wing Commander Namansh Syal, killed in the Tejas crash at the Dubai Air show, managed a farewell salute with their six-year-old daughter clinging to her as his mortal remains were consigned to flames in Himachal Pradeshs Kangra district on Sunday. The wing commanders cousin lit []
The mortal remains of Indian Air Force (IAF) pilot Wing Commander Namansh Syal arrived at his village Patialkar in Himachal Pradesh's Kangra district. IAF Wing Commader Afshan saluted her husband, Wing Commander Namansh Syal, as she paid her last respects to him.
Tejas pilot Wing Commander Namansh Syal cremated with full military honours
CHANDIGARH: The mortal remains of Wing Commander Namansh Syal, the Indian Air Force pilot who died in a Tejas fighter jet crash at the Dubai Air Show , were laid to rest with full military honours at his native village, Patialkhad near Yol in Kangra district of Himachal Pradesh. From the airport, his mortal remains were taken to Patialkhad, where villagers, family members and officials gathered to pay emotional tributes as the last rites were performed with full military honours. The atmosphere was filled with patriotic fervour as locals chanted Bharat Mata Ki Jai and Jab tak suraj chand rahega, Nammu bhai ka naam rahega, referring to Syal by his nickname. In an emotional moment, Squadron Leader Afshan, in uniform, stood beside her husbands coffin and offered a final salute as her eyes filled with tears, a gesture symbolising both love and unshakeable service to the nation. Meanwhile, his mother Veena Devi clung to the coffin of her son. A cousin of Syal lit his pyre. In tears, his father Jagan Nath, an ex-serviceman and former principal with the Himachal Pradesh Education Department, said, The country has lost a remarkable pilot, I have lost my son. I have now to be brave and take care of myself and the family. When I asked him about the air show he told me to watch on YouTube. Remembering his son, Nath added, From LKG till he completed his education he was never slapped by me. In whichever competition he took part he always stood first. He had also won the national talent scholar competition. His parents were in Hyderabad to meet him when the tragedy allegedly struck. Meanwhile, his uncle Madan Lal said, All villagers are waiting here. Some relatives have also arrived. The last rites will be performed today. This is a great loss for the country. He was exceptionally honest and straightforward. Possible g-force blackout: Expert on Tejas crash; pilots father says he learnt of sons death from YouTube Locals described Syal as a gem and the pride of their village and school. Pankaj Chadha, who studied with him at Sainik School Sujanpur Tira, said they had lost one of our gems, as Syal was the pride of their school. We will go to his native village, Patialkhad as he made all of us very proud, he said. Everyone in Patialkhad is grieving. He was like a younger brother to us. This should not have happened. We met him just three to four months ago when he visited the village, said local resident Sandeep Kumar. A highly skilled fighter pilot with an exemplary service record, Syal was posted at the Hyderabad airbase. His mortal remains were flown from Coimbatore to Kangra in a special Air Force aircraft, in which his wife, Wing Commander Afshan, their seven-year-old daughter Arayana and his parents, Jagannath Syal and Veena Devi, accompanied him. He had visited the village four months ago. His elder sister works with the Education Department. Ayush Minister Yadvinder Goma was also present during the cremation. He termed the loss unbearable for both the state and the country and assured the family of the governments unwavering support. Nagrota Bagwan MLA R S Bali, who holds cabinet rank as chairman of the Himachal Pradesh Tourism Development Corporation, was present at the airport on behalf of the state government to receive the body. Syal joined the IAF after clearing the National Defence Academy exam in 2009. He had studied at a primary school in Dalhousie, Army Public School in Yol cantonment, and Sainik School in Sujanpur Tira.
Wing commander Namansh Syal cremated with full honors, celebs pay tribute
Shimla: Sobbing inconsolably, the IAF officer wife of Wing Commander Namansh Syal, killed in the Tejas crash at the Dubai Air show, managed a farewell salute with their six-year-old daughter clinging to her as his mortal remains were consigned to flames in Himachal Pradeshs Kangra district on Sunday. The wing commanders cousin lit the pyre 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 .
Wife's final salute and a heartbreaking farewell; Wing Commander Syal cremated
Wing Commander Namansh Syal, who died in a Tejas crash at the Dubai Airshow, was cremated with full military honours in Himachal Pradesh. His wife and daughter paid their respects as locals remembered him as a dedicated athlete who saved lives by diverting the aircraft.
Wing Commander Namansh Syal died in a Tejas fighter jet crash in Dubai. The aircraft crashed during an aerobatic demonstration. His mortal remains were brought to his native village in Himachal Pradesh. Villagers and family members paid emotional tributes. The Indian Air Force is investigating the cause of the mishap. This is the second Tejas crash since its induction.
Wing Commander Namansh Syal, a decorated IAF pilot, tragically lost his life in a Tejas jet crash during the Dubai Air Show. His mortal remains were brought to his Himachal Pradesh village for final rites. Syal, a proud son of Kangra, was known for his bravery and dedication. The nation mourns this brave pilot.
Students from Himachal Pradesh have a golden opportunity to secure education loans at just 1% interest through the Dr. Yashwant Singh Parmar Vidyarthi Rhin Yojna. This fantastic state initiative is tailor-made for genuine Himachalis venturing into professional, technical, and higher education, offering financial aid for courses both in India and overseas up to Rs 20 lakh.
Himachal Pradesh: Mortal remains of Wing Commander Namansh Syal reach his native village in Kangra
Wing Commander Namansh Syal's mortal remains returned to his native village in Kangra, Himachal Pradesh, following his tragic demise in a Tejas aircraft crash during the Dubai Air Show. Villagers and former schoolmates mourned the loss of the gem and pride of their community, recalling his sharp intellect and achievements.
Justice Surya Kant to take oath on Monday as next Chief Justice of India
NEW DELHI: Justice Surya Kant, who has been part of several landmark verdicts and orders on abrogation of Article 370 removing Jammu and Kashmir's special status, Bihar electoral rolls revision and Pegasus spyware case, will on Monday take oath as the 53rd Chief Justice of India . He will succeed Justice B R Gavai, who demits office this evening. Justice Kant was appointed as the next CJI on October 30 and will remain in the post for nearly 15 months. He will demit office on February 9, 2027 on attaining the age of 65 years. Born on February 10, 1962 in Hisar district of Haryana to a middle-class family, Justice Kant went from being a small-town lawyer to the country's highest judicial office, where he has been part of several verdicts and orders of national importance and constitutional matters. He also has the distinction of standing 'first class first' in his Master's degree in law in 2011 from Kurukshetra University. Justice Kant, who penned several notable judgments in the Punjab and Haryana HC, was appointed the chief justice of Himachal Pradesh HC on October 5, 2018. His tenure as an SC judge is marked by verdicts on the abrogation of Article 370, free speech and citizenship rights. 'Will prioritise reducing pendancy of cases': CJI designate Surya Kant The judge was part of the recent presidential reference on the powers of the Governor and President in dealing with bills passed by a state assembly. The verdict is keenly awaited with potential ramifications across states. He was part of the bench that kept the colonial-era sedition law in abeyance, directing that no new FIRs be registered under it until a government review. Justice Kant also nudged the Election Commission to disclose the details of 65 lakh voters excluded from the draft electoral rolls in Bihar while hearing a batch of petitions challenging the poll panel's decision to undertake Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of the voters list in the poll-bound state. In an order that emphasised grassroots democracy and gender justice, he led a bench that reinstated a woman sarpanch unlawfully removed from office and called out the gender bias in the matter. He is also credited with directing that one-third of seats in bar associations, including the Supreme Court Bar Association, be reserved for women. Justice Kant was part of the bench that appointed a five-member committee headed by former top court judge Justice Indu Malhotra to probe the security breach during Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Punjab in 2022, saying such matters required a judicially trained mind. He also upheld the One Rank-One Pension scheme for defence forces, calling it constitutionally valid, and continues to hear petitions of women officers in the armed forces seeking parity in permanent commission. Justice Kant was on the seven-judge bench that overruled the 1967 Aligarh Muslim University judgment, opening the way for reconsideration of the institution's minority status. He was also part of the bench which heard the Pegasus spyware case and which appointed a panel of cyber experts to probe allegations of unlawful surveillance, famously stating that the state cannot get a free pass under the guise of national security.
Mortal Remains Of Wing Commander Namansh Syal Flown To TNs Sulur Air Base
Coimbatore (Tamil Nadu), Nov 23: The mortal remains of Wing Commander Namansh Syal, who was killed during an aerial display at the Dubai Air Show, were flown to Coimbatore on Sunday. Coimbatore District Collector Pavankumar G Giriyappanavar laid a wreath and paid tributes to Sayal at the Air Force Station in neighbouring Sulur. Syal, who hailed from Himachal Pradesh, was killed on Friday (November 21) after the indigenous multi-role Light Combat Aircraft (LCA), Tejas, crashed during the aerial display at [] The post Mortal Remains Of Wing Commander Namansh Syal Flown To TNs Sulur Air Base appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Vinay Kumar appointed Himachal Congress chief, quits Dy Speaker post
Vinay Kumar was appointed as the state Congress president on Saturday. He then tendered his resignation as Himachal Pradesh Deputy Speaker.
Tejas crash in Dubai: IAF mourns loss of wing commander Namansh Syal
New Delhi: Mourning the tragic loss of Wing Commander Namansh Syal, the Indian Air Force on Saturday said the air warrior was a dedicated fighter pilot and thorough professional, who served the nation with unwavering commitment, exceptional skill and an unyielding sense of duty. Syal, who hailed from Himachal Pradesh, was killed on Friday after 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 .
Tejas crash in Dubai: IAF pilots village in Himachal mourns a life lost too soon
Dharamsala: For the people of Patiyalkar, a sleepy village in Himachal Pradeshs Kangra district, the news of the death of local hero Namansh Syal the IAF Wing Commander killed after a Tejas fighter jet crashed during an aerial display at the Dubai Air Show on Saturday, November 22 is yet to sink in. For 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 .
DHARAMSALA/HAMIRPUR, Nov 22: For the people of Patiyalkar, a sleepy village in Himachal Pradeshs Kangra district, the news of the death of local hero Namansh Syal the IAF Wing Commander killed after a Tejas fighter jet crashed during an aerial display at the Dubai Air Show on Saturday is yet to sink in. For most of them, Namansh, who was in his mid-30s, remains an outstanding athlete distinguished by his dedication to the country, who even set an [] The post Tejas crash: Patriot, outstanding athlete, IAF pilots village in Himachal mourns a life lost too soon appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
The Kangra valley has been left shattered after Wing Commander Naman Syal, 34, of the Indian Air Force, was martyred when his Tejas fighter jet crashed in the United Arab Emirates on Friday while taking part in the Dubai Airshow 2025. The indigenous aircraft went down during a practice and demonstration flight in the afternoon local time, with visuals showing the jet losing altitude before hitting the ground and bursting into flames, sending thick smoke into the sky and leaving spectators at the prestigious airshow stunned. Wing Commander Syal, a resident of Patialakad village in Nagrota Bagwan, was known for his discipline and exceptional service record. He completed his schooling at Primary School Dalhousie, Army Public School YoL Cantt Dharamshala, and Sainik School, Sujanpur Tira in Himachal Pradesh, before joining the NDA in 2009, as reported by The Indian Express . His father, Jagan Nath Syal, a retired Army officer and former principal, recounted the devastating moment he learned of the crash to The Indian Express . I last spoke to my son yesterday. He told me to see his performance during the air show on TV channels or YouTube. Around 4 pm today, I was searching for videos of the ongoing air show in Dubai on YouTube when I saw reports about the plane crash. Immediately, I called my daughter-in-law, who is also a Wing Commander, to check what happened. Moments later, at least six Air Force officers arrived at our house, and I realised something bad happened. The Syal family, including his mother Veena Syal, is currently at Namans home in Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, while his wife, also an IAF officer, was undergoing training in Kolkata. Jagan Nath Syal described his son as excellent in studies and someone who dreamt big about his life. This incident left us completely shattered, he told The Indian Express . Wing Commander Syal is survived by his wife and their six-year-old daughter. Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu expressed profound sorrow on X, saying, The news of the tragic death of Himachal Pradeshs Kangra districts brave son, Naman Syal ji, in the Tejas aircraft accident at the Dubai Air Show is extremely saddening and heartbreaking. The nation has lost a courageous, dutiful, and valiant pilot I bow to the indomitable bravery, sense of duty, and dedication to national service of the brave son, as reported. The tragedy sent waves of grief across the Kangra valley. Villagers gathered outside the Syal family home late into the night, many in shock, lighting bonfires to keep warm as they tried to come to terms with the loss of the brave officer. Pilot lost control or blackout due to g-forces: Defence expert Capt Anil Gaur Looking at the nature of the Tejas aircraft crash during the Dubai Air Show 2025, defence expert Captain Anil Gaur (Retd.) speculated that the incident might have occurred due to the pilot losing control or a blackout due to the g-forces induced by gravity. Speaking to ANI on Friday, Captain Gaur said that the exact cause of the crash can only be determined after the data from the cockpit is retrieved. Expressing condolences to the family of Wing Commander Naman Syal, who tragically lost his life in the crash, Captain Gaur said, It is sad that our Tejas jet was crashed during the Dubai air show and our brave pilot lost his life. From the visuals, it seems that the jet lost control during the acrobatics, or there might have been a pilot blackout. Blackout here means the excessive gravitational force. Pilots wear a G-suit so that the blood does not pool in their legs; there might have been an issue with that. What exactly happened can only be determined once the cockpit data is retrieved. I express my condolences to the family of the pilot, he added. Excessive g-forces can cause blood to pool in the lower body, potentially leading to a pilot blackout. The Indian Air Force announced the death of the Pilot after a Tejas aircraft crashed and burst into flames at the Dubai Air Show 2025 on Friday. An IAF Tejas aircraft met with an accident during an aerial display at the Dubai Air Show today. The pilot sustained fatal injuries in the accident. IAF deeply regrets the loss of life and stands firmly with the bereaved family in this time of grief, a statement by the Indian Air Force said. The IAF said a court of inquiry is being constituted to ascertain the cause of the accident in which the pilot succumbed to fatal injuries. The plane went down while performing an aerial display before a large crowd, local media reported. Khaleej Times reported that the fighter jet crashed into the ground soon after take-off. Photos and videos shared online show plumes of black smoke billowing into the air from the aircraft on the ground. The news outlet cited one eyewitness as saying, As soon as the plane took off, it crashed. I am not sure which aircraft it was. (With inputs from Agencies)
New Video Shows Tejas Fighter Jet Bursting Into Flames At Dubai Air Show
Tejas fighter jet crashed at Dubai Air Show during a stunt, killing Wing Commander Namansh Syal of Himachal Pradesh.
Who Was Wing Commander Namansh Syal, Pilot Of Tejas Fighter Jet That Crashed At Dubai Airshow?
The young officer, who hailed from Himachal Pradesh and was known for his professionalism and calm precision in the cockpit, was flying Indias indigenously built Tejas
Himachal Man Who Lost Memory Reunited With Family After Second Head Injury
A Himachal Pradesh man who lost his memory after an accident and had no contact with his family for 45 years has now returned home.
Delhi Lieutenant Governor V K Saxena is examining drone policies from Telangana and Himachal Pradesh. This follows a recent blast near the Red Fort. The move aims to enhance security and balance development with safety. The government is also looking into background checks for medical professionals and improving the second-hand vehicle market database.
Governor Shukla questions states stance as Himachal faces row over timely panchayat polls
CHANDIGARH: Himachal Pradesh Governor Shiv Pratap Shukla today took a dig at the Congress-led state government over the ongoing face-off between the government and the State Election Commission (SEC) regarding the timely conduct of the panchayat elections. He asked the government to decide if the minister is bigger or the bureaucrat. Speaking to the media on the sidelines of the Audit Week launch in Shimla, the Governor said that holding panchayat elections is a constitutional arrangement and everyone must follow the Constitution. Asking the government to decide if the minister is bigger or the bureaucrat, Shukla said, The ministers are saying elections would be held on time, while the bureaucrats working under them, including seven deputy commissioners, have reported that they are unable to prepare for the elections in the present circumstances. Both cannot be true at the same time. There would be an atmosphere of instability in the state if the Vidhan Sabha elections are not held on time, and as far as the panchayat elections are concerned, both the State Election Commission and the government should sit and resolve the issue to hold the elections, as postponing the polls would not be conducive to democracy, he added. Shukla said he had received a closed envelope from the State Election Commissioner on Friday, but he had not yet opened it. Chief Secretary Sanjay Gupta has met State Election Commissioner Anil Khachi. Rural Development and Panchayati Raj Secretary C. Paulrasu also met Khachi, and it was conveyed on behalf of the state government that it would not be possible to hold the elections before 30 January, 2026. Gupta has also conveyed to the SEC that the delimitation of some panchayats, as per the Cabinets decision, may be allowed. In a notification issued on 9 October, Chief Secretary and Chairman of the State Executive Committee Sanjay Gupta had announced that the polls would be held only after the restoration of proper connectivity, considering the damage to roads and private and public property during the monsoon season. The issue of deferment of the panchayat elections is scheduled to come up for hearing before the Himachal Pradesh High Court on 22 December. On the other hand, State Rural Development and Panchayati Raj Minister Anirudh Singh, along with other ministers, has maintained that the elections would be held on time. The elections to over 3,500 gram panchayats in the state are slated to be held in December and January 2026. The last date for conducting the elections is 23 January, and the State Election Commission has initiated the process with the preparation of electoral rolls.
Labourer killed, three injured as shuttering collapses at construction site in Himachal Pradesh
SHIMLA: A labourer died and three were injured when the shuttering of an under-construction indoor stadium collapsed in Chamba district of Himachal Pradesh, police said on Friday. The deceased was identified as Tarkeshwar (34) from Kishanganj district in Bihar, they said. The shuttering of the stadium collapsed on the four labourers at the construction site in the Bargaha area on Thursday night. Other labourers immediately swung into action and pulled them out, but Tarkeshwar died, police said. The body will be handed over to Tarkeshwar's family after post-mortem. The injured labourers -- Lalu Kumar, Deenbandhu and Balkeshwar -- are undergoing treatment at Chamba Medical College, they said. The multi-storey indoor stadium, which is being built at a cost of Rs 11.12 crore, will include modern amenities such as a swimming pool, elevator, boxing ring, gymnasium, badminton courts, and a table tennis hall once completed.
JKSA seeks Himachal CMs intervention amid harassment, profiling of Kashmiri shawl sellers,students
These reprehensible actions risk inciting anti-Muslim sentiments, harming communal harmony SRINAGAR: The Jammu and Kashmir Students Association (JKSA) on Thursday condemned the alarming reports of profiling, harassment, intimidation, and sudden eviction faced by Kashmiri shawl sellers and students in Himachal Pradesh. The Association has sought the immediate intervention of Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh []
Nineteen years and counting: Nitishs unbroken grip on Bihar
On Thursday, Nitish Kumar achieved yet another rare political milestone, becoming Bihars longest-serving chief minister, despite his party repeatedly finishing as the second-largest partner in both the Mahagathbandhan and NDA alliances in recent times. With this latest swearing-in , he joins the group of Indias ten longest-serving chief ministersa list long dominated by political stalwarts such as Sikkims Pawan Kumar Chamling and Odishas Naveen Patnaik. Chamling served as chief minister for 25 years, while Patnaik has held office for 24 years. West Bengals Jyoti Basu governed for more than 23 years, and Arunachal Pradeshs Gegong Apang for over 22 years. Mizorams Lal Thanhawla also crossed the 22-year mark, while Himachal Pradeshs Virbhadra Singh served more than 21 years. Tripuras Manik Sarkar held office for 19 years. Nitish Kumar, similarly, has now completed roughly 19 years as Bihars chief minister. Tamil Nadus M. Karunanidhi served for more than 18 years, and Punjabs Parkash Singh Badal is also credited with over 18 years in office. In Bihar, however, what distinguishes Nitish Kumar most is his repeated return to the top post, even after shifting between alliances. While Prime Minister Modi promotes the mantra of Sabka Vikas with Sabka Saath through Sabka Prayas, Nitish Kumar is often described as Sabka CM. Political observers in the state believe this contributes to his steady influence among minority voters. He has again included a Muslim minister in his cabinet, and the JD(U) fielded four Muslim candidates in the recently concluded Bihar Assembly elections. Another point of alignment between him and Prime Minister Modi is his refusal to allow family members to hold roles within the JD(U), reflecting his firm stance against dynastic politicssomething that contrasts with many parties in the Mahagathbandhan. Just as Modi maintains a stance of zero tolerance for corruption and nepotism, Nitish Kumar has ensured that neither corruption, nepotism, nor communalism gains a foothold in his administration. The political chemistry between Nitish Kumar and Narendra Modi within the NDA is often regarded as one of the most dependable partnerships in Bihar. Both leaders have no family members active in politics and are widely seen by the public as hardworking, sincere, and trustworthy.
Woman Dies After Husband Throws Acid On Her, Throws Her Off Roof In Himachal Pradesh: Cops
A woman, who was allegedly pushed off the roof by her husband after he threw acid on her in Himachal Pradesh's Mandi on November 15, died at PGI Chandigarh on Wednesday night, police said.
Congress dilemma in Upper House
NEW DELHI: Still reeling from its devastating performance in the Bihar Assembly elections, the Congress now faces a critical test of biannual Rajya Sabha elections, scheduled for early next year. With the partys Assembly seats shrinking in several key states and alliance leverage weakening, it may struggle to retain its influence in the Upper House. Elections for 75 seats in the Rajya Sabha are scheduled across April, June, and November 2026. While the BJP-led NDA is expected to make net gains, the elections may present an uphill task for the Congress with its weakened MLA base and rising internal dissent. The elections will see seats vacated across multiple states, including Bihar, Karnataka, Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal, and Himachal Pradesh, among others. Although Congress may lose some seats, it is likely to retain as many as nine seatsthree from Karnataka, two from Telangana, one each from Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Haryana, and Himachal Pradesh. With some seasoned leaders set to exit, the elections are viewed as crucial by many. Some of the leaders who complete their term in the Upper House include Congress chief Mallikarjun Kharge, veteran leaders Digvijaya Singh and Shakti Singh Gohil. Another leader who completes his term is senior advocate and Congress leader Abhishek Manu Singhvi from Telangana in April 2026. While Kharge, whose term from Karnataka ends on June 25, 2026, is expected to be renominated for another term, says party sources. Kharge is the Leader of Opposition in the Rajya Sabha (LoP) as well. While veteran leaders may push for renomination, arguing that experienced voices are needed in the Upper House, a section of leaders also root for fielding fresh faces to revive the partys prospects in Parliament and state units. Although the official candidate selection process is months away, the sources say that some names are already doing the rounds. While Congress is expected to hold ground in Karnataka and Telangana, it risks losing seats in states where its footprint has shrunk. The partys hopes also hinge on coalition arithmetic in Maharashtra, where shifting alliances and fragmented mandates could influence the outcome Meanwhile, regional allies within the INDIA bloc will also play a critical role in negotiating seat-sharing arrangements, making strategic alliances more crucial than ever. Maharashtra will see seven seats vacant in April 2026, with Sharad Pawar (NCP-SP), Priyanka Chaturvedi (Shiv Sena UBT), and Union Minister Ramdas Athawale completing their terms. Congress is entering these elections with limited leverage. The Bihar election has reduced its bargaining power among the allies, said a senior party leader. Success will depend not just on numbers, but on negotiation skills and candidate selection. On the other hand, the BJP-led NDA, buoyed by strong Assembly numbers in key states, is expected to leverage its dominance to gain additional Rajya Sabha seats, further squeezing Congress. Kharge, Singhvi among those completing terms this year Some of the leaders who complete their term in the Upper House include Congress chief Mallikarjun Kharge, veteran leaders Digvijaya Singh and Shakti Singh Gohil. Another leader who completes his term is senior advocate and Congress leader Abhishek Manu Singhvi from Telangana in April 2026.
Tomato prices soar 50% in 15 days due to excess October rains
Tomato prices have risen sharply across the country as supplies dropped following heavy October rainfall. Government data shows retail prices have increased 25% to 100% in a month across states, with the all-India average up 27% to 46 per kg. Chandigarh recorded the steepest rise at 112%, while Andhra Pradesh, Himachal Pradesh and Karnataka also saw increases above 40%.
SHIMLA: Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu on Wednesday alleged that the BJP's social media cell was targeting him because he took stringent measures to curb corruption and ensured that widows, orphans, women, labourers and farmers got their rights. Addressing a gathering at Baddi, CM Sukhu attacked the previous BJP government for allegedly turning a blind eye on corruption. He alleged that the previous BJP government gave away 5,000 bighas of land worth hundreds of crores to big industrial houses for just Rs 1.12 crore, under the guise of customised packages. The stamp duty was waived and provisions were made to supply electricity at Rs 3 per unit for five years and even free water, he said, adding that as long as I am the chief minister, I will not allow the state's assets to be plundered. We are custodians of Himachal Pradesh's resources. The BJP's social media cell is targeting me because I took stringent measures to curb corruption and ensured that widows, orphans, women, labourers and farmers got their rights, he said in a statement issued here. The previous BJP government allegedly left behind a debt of Rs 75,000 crore and liabilities of Rs 10,000 crore pertaining to employees. For electoral gains, it opened various institutes in the last six months of its tenure without proper budgetary provisions and staff, he further alleged. The state government was safeguarding the interests of Himachal, and that's why we returned Rs 30 crore received from the Centre for the bulk drug park and decided to develop it on our own, he said. He also said that the government is going to make large-scale recruitment in various departments. Earlier, Sukhu announced the opening of a Public Works Department (PWD) Division in the Doon Assembly constituency of the Solan district. He also announced the upgradation of Baddi Civil Hospital to 100 beds and Rs 25 crore for construction of the SDM office and Rs 10 crore for construction of a sports stadium. He said that facilities in Baddi must match the growing population, adding that a modern bus stand would be constructed at Baddi, for which adequate funds would be provided. He announced that the Baddi, Barotiwala and Chandi schools would have CBSE curriculum from the next academic session. He reiterated that he has repeatedly offered to accompany all the seven BJP MPs to seek financial assistance from the Centre for the monsoon disaster-affected families. The prime minister himself had announced a package of Rs 1,500 crore but we have not received the funds yet, and we were helping the families with our own resources, the CM said. He distributed Rs 17,62,000 to 18 families as per Himachal Pradesh Relief Manual and cheques of Rs 17,03,000 to 15 beneficiaries of Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana-Gramin as final instalment in Doon constituency.
Chandigarh Diary | Vehicle type influences road behaviour, says DGP
Haryana DGP OP Singh sparked a controversy by stereotyping Thar owners as prone to a type of road behaviour. He stated, The choice of vehicle reflects your mindset, and cited an incident where an ACPs son, driving a Thar registered in the fathers name, ran over someone. He wanted his son freed, and we asked him whose name the car is registered in. Its in his name, Singh added. Singh later clarified on X, saying his remarks were made during a discussion on traffic management. His point was that police should avoid causing jams and should instead target vehicles which people are fed up with to prevent stunts and unruly driving. AAP MLA Dhaliwal back in the spotlight AAP MLA Kuldeep Singh Dhaliwal from Ajnala constituency is back in the spotlight, as the party on Friday announced his name as AAPs chief spokesperson. This came more than four months after he was divested of his post as state cabinet minister. The announcement came on the day AAP retained the Tarn Taran assembly by-election, with its candidate, Harmeet Singh Sandhu, defeating his SAD rival by 12,091 votes. After his removal from the cabinet, Dhaliwal was first seen in public during the floods in the state. The new role marks a reversal of fortune after Dhaliwals political wilderness following an initial period of prominence. Sukhu goes spiritual in the mountains Himachal Pradesh CM Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu has offered prayers at the newly constructed Panjpiri Sheetla Mata Temple in Kangra district, along with Sri Sri Ravi Shankar, founder of Art of Living. Praising the latter, Sukhu stated that the spiritual Guru has been tirelessly working across the world to promote peace, tolerance, and human values. It is a matter of pride for Himachal Pradesh that he has established the Kailash Ashram in the lap of the Dhauladhar ranges, where disciples from around the globe will revitalize themselves with renewed energy, said the CM. Sri Sri Ravi Shankar emphasised the importance of spiritual practice in ones life. Harpreet Bajwa Our correspondent in Chandigarh hsbajwa73@gmail.com
Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi in Sikkim to review operational preparedness
NEW DELHI: General Upendra Dwivedi, Chief of Army Staff (COAS), arrived in Sikkim on Tuesday on a two-day official visit. This follows his comment on Monday that relations between India and China have improved a lot over the last year . He attributed this change to a rise in communication at various levels between the two countries. General Dwivedi will be meeting the commanders posted there and review the operational preparedness of the force. The Trishakti Corps based in Sukna, West Bengal, is mandated to defend the 220-km Line of Actual Control (LAC) along Sikkim. There has been disengagement of Indian and Chinese forces from all standoff points in October 2024. But the troops, along with their equipment and armaments, remain deployed close to the 832-km LAC in eastern Ladakh. China had carried out a massive force deployment in eastern Ladakh after PLA soldiers clashed with Indian Army troops at Finger 4 in May 2020. Around a year after the May 2020 standoff in eastern Ladakh, a new hotline between the two countries was established. The New Indian Express earlier reported that the new hotline was established between Indian Army in Kongra La, North Sikkim, and PLA at Khamba Dzong in the Tibetan Autonomous Region to further the spirit of trust and cordial relations along the borders. The armed forces of the two countries have well-established mechanisms for communication at ground commander level. There are now six hotlines, with two in eastern Ladakh, two in Sikkim and two in Arunachal Pradesh. The other five hotlines have been established along the meeting points at the LAC at Daulat Beg Oldi and Chushul in eastern Ladakh, Nathu La in Sikkim, and at Bum La and Kibithu in Arunachal Pradesh. India shares a 3488-km border with China that runs along the states of Jammu & Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Sikkim and Arunachal Pradesh. The length of the border along Sikkim is 220 km. Sikkim also shares borders with Nepal and Bhutan To the south of Sikkim lies the Siliguri Corridor, a narrow stretch adjoining Nepal, Bhutan, and Bangladesh, measuring about 170x60km, and at its narrowest, around 20-22km, which holds tremendous geopolitical importance. Functioning as a crucial link connecting the northeast of India with the rest of the country, it accommodates major national highways, railway lines, pipelines, and optical fiber connectivity. In 2023, it was announced that border guarding forces are set to play a pivotal role in fortifying the security of the Siliguri Corridor, also known as the Chickens Neck, during peacetime.
Punjab CM Mann secures deferral on key state issues at Northern Zonal Council meeting
CHANDIGARH: Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann on Tuesday said the BJP-led Centre had agreed to defer as many as 11 agenda items related to the state, which were part of the deliberations during the meeting of the North Zonal Council (NZC) in Faridabad on Monday. Speaking to reporters, CM Mann said Union Home Minister Amit Shah had ordered a status quo on most of the issues related to Punjab. The issue about staff appointment in the administration and institutions of Chandigarh has been referred to the NZC standing committee, he added. Mann criticised the NZC members including Haryana, Rajasthan, and Himachal Pradesh for attempting to infringe the rights of the states. He said that it is unfortunate that Haryana, Rajasthan, and Himachal Pradesh are unnecessarily mounting pressure on Punjab. The Punjab CM alleged that the leadership of these states have made a mockery of the platform by making unjust demands seeking a share in the resources of the state and even its rivers. He said that in the NZC meeting, all the member states put forth their views, and as the head of the state, he also presented the case of Punjab. Out of a total 28 agenda items, 11 were related to Punjab, and for the first time, due to the strenuous efforts of the state government, all of them were deferred, he said. Those who are making a fuss over river waters must understand one thing, a real-time assessment of the availability of river waters should be made, for which the presence of water must be reviewed, Mann said. Mann quipped that Haryana has made a very strange demand --that Punjab should be restrained from constructing mini hydel projects on the Bhakra Main Line (BML) on the grounds that it would hamper the flow of water. He said it was surprising that the naive leadership of Haryana was indulging in such baseless tantrums far removed from facts. He added that issues related to the Satluj Yamuna Link (SYL) can be resolved only through the Yamuna Satluj Link (YSL), which would ensure the judicious use of Yamuna water. Punjab, he stressed, has no surplus water to divert through the SYL, and no scientific calculation has ever been carried out regarding water availability. Mann categorically reiterated that Punjab has no spare water to share with any state --there is no question about it, he said. In the wake of the suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty, he said there is now a significant opportunity to resolve long-pending water-related issues concerning the states represented at the meeting. There is a possibility, he added, of linking the Chenab river with the Ravi and Beas rivers, over which dams already regulate downstream water flow. He said that linking the Chenab with the Ravi and Beas would allow the surplus water inflow to be used productively by downstream states, including Punjab, for both power generation and irrigation. The additional water, he said, would also help Punjab bridge its water shortfall, particularly in the border areas. On the issue of the Bhakra Beas Management Board (BBMB), Mann said he had strongly opposed the proposal to appoint a whole-time member in the BBMB from Rajasthan, arguing that the board was constituted under the Punjab Reorganisation Act, 1966, and concerns only the successor states of Punjab and Haryana. Rajasthan and Himachal Pradesh are already represented as ex officio members, he said, and creating additional whole-time posts would only increase expenditure --most of which is borne by Punjab-- without serving any useful purpose. Mann said he had also forcefully reiterated Punjabs longstanding demand for the transfer of Chandigarh to the state, noting that after the reorganisation of Punjab, the Indira Gandhi Agreement of 1970 clearly stated that the capital project area of Chandigarh will, as a whole, go to Punjab, reflecting an explicit commitment from the Centre. The Rajiv-Longowal Accord, signed on July 24, 1985, he added, reaffirmed that Chandigarh would be transferred to Punjab. On maintaining the 60:40 ratio in the intake of service personnel from Punjab and Haryana in the functioning of the UT of Chandigarh, the Chief Minister said that preserving the status quo was essential. He expressed concern that IAS and PCS officers from Punjab were being excluded from key positions in the Chandigarh administration. Posts in departments such as Excise, Education, Finance and Health, he said, were now being opened to cadres like the UT cadre (DANICS), thereby undermining Punjabs role in the effective functioning of the UT administration. He said Haryana and Himachal Pradesh had unilaterally withdrawn their colleges from Panjab University in 1973 and 1975 respectively, set up their own universities, and stopped funding Panjab University altogether. He said Punjab alone had supported and nurtured the university for 50 years, and questioned why Haryana now wanted to affiliate its colleges with Panjab University when they have been affiliated for decades with Kurukshetra University, an A+ NAAC-accredited institution. Mann reiterated that there should be no change in the status of Panjab University, adding that Panjab University is our university, and we will continue to support and fund it in the future as well.
What Is Raulane Festival? Know History And Significance Of Himachal Pradesh's Unique Tradition
The Raulane Festival is a unique and sacred winter festival celebrated in Himachal Pradesh's Kinnaur district.
No anticipatory bail for two accused of cheating former Karnataka CM Sadananda Gowda
BENGALURU: A city civil and sessions court has refused to grant anticipatory bail to two persons accused of cheating former chief minister DV Sadananda Gowda of nearly Rs 3 lakh in September. Sriu Tenzin Pelyon, 32, of Himachal Pradesh and Yeshi Chodon, 31, from Odisha, directors of Lhakar Technologies Pvt. Ltd., Domlur, Bengaluru North, had applied for anticipatory bail. Considering the objections filed by the prosecution, Judge Gangappa Irappa Patil, 52nd Additional City Civil and Sessions Court, said that in the FIR, the names of the accused have not been mentioned. It is true that the FIR has been registered against unknown persons. Money has been transferred to the bank account of the company of the accused... At this stage, it is not a fit case to grant bail to the petitioners, he said. In his complaint filed at the North CEN crime police station, Gowda said that he had purchased a new Innova car and on September 11, he received a message purportedly from India Post stating that the Registration Certificate (RC) of his vehicle has been sent. But it did not reach him. Later, when he tried to track the speed post sent to him on the Indian Speed Post Tracking system, he received a link that sought certain details. He submitted alldetails, including the tracking ID. Subsequently, he received a WhatsApp call from cellphone No. 84******03, claiming to be from India Post courier customer care centre. The caller requested him to make a nominal payment of Rs 2 for verification of the tracking ID. Gowda tried to make the payment through PhonePe, but failed. Then, the unknown caller informed Gowda that the RC card will be sent to his residential address. Gowda stated that when he checked his savings accounts withSBI, Axis Bank and HDFC banks around 9am on September 17, he found that Rs 2,85,999 had been withdrawn without his knowledge. Meanwhile, the investigation took theCEN police to the accuseds company. Fearing their arrest, the accused approached the court for anticipatory bail.Claiming that they haveno role in the crime, the accused said the bank account of their company has been wrongly and inadvertently linked to the offence, despite having no transaction or monetary link with the accounts of Gowda. Neither their company nor its directors used the cell phone No. 84******03, they claimed. The public prosecutor filed objections stating that the investigation is pending and the police are yet to file the chargesheet. If the petitioners are granted anticipatory bail, their presence cannot be secured easily. Further, the petitioners are from other states, though they work in Bengaluru. If they are granted anticipatorybail, they may tamper with witnesses and hamper the investigation.
Vacancies in Information Commissioner posts undermining RTI Act: Supreme Court
Observing that the vacancies in the Information Commissioner posts undermine the functioning of the Right to Information (RTI) Act, the Supreme Court on Monday directed Himachal Pradesh to fill all vacant posts in its State Information Commission (SIC) within two months. It also instructed Jharkhand to complete its long-pending appointment process within one month. A two-judge bench of the apex court, headed by Justice Surya Kant and including Justice Joymalya Bagchi, was hearing a petition filed by Anjali Bhardwaj, Commodore Lokesh Batra (Retd.) and Amrita Johri. The plea was on the prolonged failure of the Union government and several states to appoint Information Commissioners. Lawyer Prashant Bhushan, appearing for the petitioners, pointed out that the Central Information Commission (CIC) has been without a chief for more than two months and that eight of the ten sanctioned Information Commissioner posts are vacant. He submitted that the CIC currently faces a backlog of nearly 30,000 cases. Bhushan contended that several SICs are also functioning with serious shortages. Bhushan further noted that the situation in several State Information Commissions was also alarming. In Jharkhand, the SIC has been defunct for more than five years and now the commission has even stopped registering new cases. In Himachal Pradesh, the SIC has been defunct for more than four months. He highlighted that in Chhattisgarh, the SIC is functioning with a single commissioner despite pendency of nearly 35,000 appeals and complaints. Similarly, in Maharashtra, the SIC is functioning with eight commissioners. while three posts are lying vacant and the backlog of cases is nearly 1 lakh, Bhushan pointed out. In Tamil Nadu, the government has sanctioned only seven posts of commissioners even though the SIC has among the largest backlogs in the country at 41,000, he said. In Madhya Pradesh, the SIC is functioning with four commissioners. while 20,000 matters are pending, he added. In several other states also, despite large backlogs, several posts of commissioners are lying vacant. It was highlighted that governments are completely undermining peoples Right to Information by not appointing information commissioners in a timely and transparent manner, leading to buildup of large backlogs and long delays of more than one year in the disposal of appeals and complaints. The issue of ensuring transparency in the appointment process as laid down in the Anjali Bhardwaj judgment of 2019 was also highlighted. The lawyer added that since the last hearing on October 27, 2025, the Karnataka government has filled all the vacancies in the commission and the SIC is now functioning at its full strength of 11 commissioners. The counsel for the Union of India stated that the selection committee meeting will be held at the earliest and the appointment process will be completed.
CM Omar Abdullah Highlights J&Ks Development Vision At 32nd Northern Zonal Council Meeting
FARIDABAD, Nov 17: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah today attended the 32nd meeting of the Northern Zonal Council (NZC) held in Faridabad, Haryana. The meeting was chaired by Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation, Amit Shah. The Northern Zonal Council comprises the States and Union Territories of Haryana, Himachal Pradesh, Punjab, Rajasthan, Delhi, Jammu & Kashmir, Ladakh, and Chandigarh. Speaking at the meeting, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah highlighted the launch of Mission YUVA, the governments focused push on strengthening the [] The post CM Omar Abdullah Highlights J&Ks Development Vision At 32nd Northern Zonal Council Meeting appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Himachal Pradesh Board Class 10, 12 Date Sheet 2026: Check Expected Dates, Past Year Trends
HPBOSE Class 10, 12 Board Exams 2026: Based on the past year trends, students can expect the exams to begin in March, 2026.
Shah to chair N-Z Council meet today
NEW DELHI, Nov 16: Union Home Minister Amit Shah will on Monday chair the 32nd meeting of the Northern Zonal Council in Haryanas Faridabad, where issues like education, health, electricity, speedy investigation of cases of sexual offences against women and children, among others, are likely to be discussed. Follow the Daily Excelsior channel on WhatsApp The Northern Zonal Council comprises the States and Union Territories of Haryana, Himachal Pradesh, Punjab, Rajasthan, Delhi, Jammu and Kashmir, Ladakh and Chandigarh. Chief Ministers, [] The post Shah to chair N-Z Council meet today appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Locals block devotees from entering court-declared illegal Sanjauli mosque in Shimla; six booked
CHANDIGARH: Six people, including four women, have been booked by the Himachal Pradesh Police for preventing devotees from offering prayers at the Sanjauli mosque in Shimla, which had earlier been declared illegal by a local court. Sources said the incident occurred on Friday when several people from other states were headed to the mosque to offer prayers (namaz). This reportedly did not go down well with sections of the local population, following which the accused, associated with the Devbhoomi Sangharsh Samiti, gathered at the spot and stopped them. They prevented the devotees from entering the mosque, claiming that the structure had been declared illegal by the court and, therefore, offering namaz should not be permitted. Police personnel arrived at the spot to resolve the issue; however, the accused continued to oppose the devotees. Officers said they raised slogans while asking Muslims to show their IDs and questioned how they could offer prayers in a mosque that was declared illegal and ordered to be demolished. The women stated that they would not allow Muslims to pass by their houses, claiming that they peered inside their homes. A video of the incident went viral on social media. Some locals also stopped the visiting crowd from offering prayers and sent them back. Taking cognisance of the issue, the police booked the accused for disturbing communal harmony and law and order, adding that further investigation is underway. After the incident, the Samiti submitted a letter to the office of a senior police officer in Shimla, demanding restrictions on the increasing number of people coming to the site for namaz, asserting that their identities cannot be ascertained. It also requested that electricity and water connections to the mosque be cut off, as it had been declared illegal by the court.
Home Minister Amit Shah to chair Northern Zonal Council meeting in Faridabad on November 17
Union Home Minister Amit Shah will chair the 32nd meeting of the Northern Zonal Council at Faridabad in Haryana on Monday. The meeting is being organised by the Inter-State Council Secretariat, Ministry of Home Affairs, with the Government of Haryana hosting it. The Northern Zonal Council consists of Haryana, Himachal Pradesh, Punjab, Rajasthan, Delhi, Jammu and Kashmir, Ladakh and Chandigarh. Chief ministers, lieutenant governors, senior officials from the central and state governments and Union territories shall participate in the meeting. Education, health, electricity, and speedy investigation of cases of sexual offences against women and children are likely to be discussed. The council will also discuss issues of national importance, including the implementation of Fast Track Special Courts, providing brick-and-mortar banking facilities in the designated area of every village, implementation of the Emergency Response Support System, etc. Issues of common interest on the regional level shall also be discussed. The Northern Zonal Council is among the five zonal councils established under sections 15 to 22 of the States Reorganisation Act, 1956. Issues proposed by the States are presented to the permanent committee of the concerned Zonal Council for discussion initially. Following consideration by the permanent committee, issues are later presented to the Zonal Council meeting for deliberation. Despite the role of the zonal councils being advisory, it serves as a forum to resolve and aid progress over issues and disputes between the Centre, member states and Union territories. It also plays a vital role in promoting mutual understanding and cooperation across various fields. In the last 11 years, a total of 63 meetings of the various zonal councils and their permanent committees have been held.
Himachal Pradesh launches anti-heroin drive
No refuge for drug traffickers, vows Chief Minister Sukhwinder Singh Sukhu
Himachal Pradesh Govt Asks Centre To Reopen Trade Through Shipki La Pass
The chief minister also announced that Rampur school will follow the CBSE curriculum from the next academic session.
Belagavi police bust international VoIP scam targeting US citizens
BELAGAVI: In a major breakthrough, Belagavi police on Thursday busted an international online fraud racket that had duped hundreds of US citizens over the past seven months. The well-organised call centre, operating secretly from Kumar Hall, off Bauxite Road in Belagavi city, was running a sophisticated Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) scam to siphon off money from unsuspecting Americans. Police Commissioner Bhushan Borse revealed the operators had collected sensitive information, including bank details and residential addresses of several US citizens. Using advanced software and fake identities, the accused lured victims into sharing financial data before extorting money through intimidation and deceit. Acting on intelligence inputs, a special police team raided the call centre at midnight Wednesday, seized 37 laptops and 37 mobile phones, and arrested 33 individuals on the spot. All the accused hailed from Assam, Himachal Pradesh, Maharashtra, Gujarat, Jharkhand, Nagaland, Meghalaya, Uttar Pradesh and Rajasthan, with one suspect reportedly from Nepal. During preliminary interrogation, police found the gang used 11 pre-written scripts to cheat clients, tailoring each to manipulate or threaten them. They would inform a US resident that he had placed an order for an expensive gadget, such as an iPhone. The victim would deny it, and be directed to another number which was actually controlled by the fraudsters. Once connected, the scammers gained access to key personal and banking details, said Commissioner Borse. Some members impersonated officials of the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), convincing victims that their phone numbers and email accounts had been hacked or misused elsewhere. The victims, believing the narrative, often revealed sensitive data or made panic payments. The racket employed multiple digital camouflage techniques and Urban VPN to hide their IP addresses, and VoIP technology to make and receive calls that appeared to originate from foreign locations, though operating from Belagavi. The group also used sophisticated software to manage real-time communication, Borse said. Most of the international calls were handled by operators from Gujarat and West Bengal. Two more suspects are expected to be arrested soon. The seized laptops and phones will undergo forensic imaging and analysis to trace the money trail and identify victims, police said. Preliminary findings show the call centre employees were paid Rs 18,000 to Rs 45,000 per month, besides incentives and performance bonuses. Borse said multiple sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) have been invoked and investigations are on to determine the extent of the scam and whether international collaborators were involved.
JP Singh: Top Cop Who Took Retirement To Make Political Debut In Bihar
JP Singh is a 2000-batch IPS officer and former Additional Director General of Police (ADGP) in Himachal Pradesh.
Teachers association flags delayed salaries at Himachal Pradesh University
The State governments decision to shift the universitys funding of staff salaries on the basis of grant-in-aid instead of a regular budget had created recurrent financial uncertainty, the associations president said
Khajjiar, Himachal Pradesh, is dubbed 'Mini Switzerland of India' for its saucer-shaped meadows, glacial lake with a floating island, and dense Deodar forests. Perched at 1,900 meters, it offers panoramic Dhauladhar range views, vibrant flora, and wildlife within the Kalatop Khajjiar Wildlife Sanctuary.
Cold wave warning for Delhi, other states of north India, predicts IMD
NEW DELHI: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast cold wave conditions to continue its grip over Northern, Eastern, and Central India during the next few days. According to the Met department, the minimum temperatures in Northwest India are expected to drop by 2-3Celsius in the coming days. Cold to severe cold wave conditions are likely to persist in isolated areas of Haryana, Chandigarh, Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, East and West Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Vidarbha, Jharkhand, and Odisha over the next three-four days, it added. As per the weatherman, cold wave occurs when the minimum temperature at a particular weather station drops significantly below normalspecifically by 4.5-6.4C or moreand when the absolute temperature reaches or falls below certain thresholds (such as 10C in the plains or 0C in the hills). Currently, cold wave and severe cold wave conditions have al ready been reported in Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan, with cold wave conditions affecting isolated pockets of Haryana, Chandigarh, Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, and Chhattisgarh since November 9. The IMD has observed that minimum temperatures range from 7-10C in various regions, including Jammu and Kashmir, Ladakh, Punjab, Himachal Pradesh, northern Haryana, Uttarakhand, East Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Vidarbha, Madhya Maharashtra, Chhattisgarh, and Uttar Pradesh. In these areas, minimum temperatures have dropped below normal by 5.1C or more, creating potential health hazards. Additionally, temperatures in Telangana are expected to fall by 3-4C for two-three days, with no significant changes afterward. The IMD has warned that the sudden decline in minimum temperatures could increase the likelihood of various illnesses. Do not ignore shivering; it is the first sign that the body is losing heat. Get indoors, read a health advisory issued by the weather office. In its Agromet advisory, the IMD recommended light and frequent irrigation for standing crops in the evening to protect them from low temperature stresses or cold injuries. Shivering Minimum temperatures in northwest India set to drop by 2-3C Cold to severe cold wave conditions likely to persist in isolated areas of Haryana, Chandigarh, Delhi, UP, MP, Chhattisgarh, Maharashtra, Jharkhand and Odisha over the next 3-4 days Minimum temperatures range from 7-10C in states including J&K, Ladakh, Punjab, Himachal Pradesh, northern Haryana, Uttarakhand and others Agromet advisory: Light and frequent irrigation recommended for standing crops in the evening
Bihar polls: ECI says 80% of security personnel drawn from Central armed police forces
NEW DELHI: Countering RJD leader Tejashwi Prasad Yadavs allegation over the disproportionate deployment of forces and observers in poll-bound Bihar from BJP-ruled states, the Election Commission of India (ECI) on Monday said nearly 80 percent of the police forces are drawn from Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs). A senior ECI official said, Only about 20 percent of the police forces are deployed from the State Armed Police forces, which are drawn proportionately from different states as per availability. State forces have been taken from 24 states, including Jharkhand, Telangana, Kerala, Punjab, Himachal Pradesh, and Karnataka. Even observers have been drawn and deployed proportionately from all states irrespective of the ruling party in the respective state, the official said, adding that CCTVs have been functioning at all strong rooms and wherever any malfunctioning has come to notice, it has been promptly rectified. On the issue of voters turnout ratio in terms of male and female, the ECI official said, the overall gender ratio with regard to voters turnout is generally given at the time of final turnout and we still have one round of voting is left.
Cold wave to persist across North, East, and Central India for next four days: IMD
NEW DELHI: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast the continuation of cold wave conditions across northern, eastern, and central India for the next four days. Minimum temperatures in northwest India are expected to drop by 23C in the coming days. According to the IMD, cold to severe cold wave conditions are likely to persist in isolated areas of west Madhya Pradesh, Haryana, Chandigarh, Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, east and west Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Vidarbha, Jharkhand, and Odisha over the next three to four days. A cold wave, as defined by the IMD, occurs when the minimum temperature at a particular weather station drops significantly below normalspecifically by 4.5C to 6.4C or moreand when the absolute temperature reaches or falls below certain thresholds (10C in the plains or 0C in the hills). Currently, cold wave and severe cold wave conditions have already been reported in Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan, while isolated pockets of Haryana, Chandigarh, Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, and Chhattisgarh have also been affected since November 9. The IMD has observed that minimum temperatures are ranging between 7C and 10C in various regions, including Jammu and Kashmir, Ladakh, Punjab, Himachal Pradesh, northern Haryana, Uttarakhand, east Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Vidarbha, Madhya Maharashtra, Chhattisgarh, and Uttar Pradesh. In these areas, temperatures have dropped below normal by 5.1C or more, creating potential health hazards. The department predicts that minimum temperatures in northwest India will remain below normal by 23C over the next four to five days. Additionally, temperatures in Telangana are expected to fall by 34C for two to three days, with no significant changes thereafter. The IMD has warned that the sudden decline in minimum temperatures could increase the likelihood of illnesses such as flu, stuffy nose, and nosebleeds, which can worsen with prolonged exposure to cold. The health advisory cautions, Do not ignore shivering; it is the first sign that the body is losing heat. Get indoors. In its agromet advisory, the IMD has recommended light and frequent irrigation for standing crops in the evening to protect them from low-temperature stress or cold injury in Punjab, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Odisha, and Jharkhand.
Shimla teachers put scorpion in 8-year-olds pants, booked
Himachal Pradesh: An eight-year-old boy in Himachals Shimla was a victim of caste-based abuse at school, with the teachers once placing a scorpion in his pants. The police, on November 3, confirmed that the headmaster Devendra and two teachers, Babu Ram and Kritika Thakur, were arrested under the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of 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 .
Three Sainik School staff arrested after 12-year-old cadet's death in Arunachal Pradesh
GUWAHATI: Three staff members of Sainik School, Niglok, in Arunachal Pradeshs East Siang district have been arrested in connection with the death of a 12-year-old cadet on the school campus. The arrested individuals are house masters Devendra Singh from Uttar Pradesh, Kangge Darin from Arunachal Pradesh, and hostel superintendent Amar Singh Thakur from Himachal Pradesh. Earlier, a case was registered under relevant sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita. Superintendent of Police Pankaj Lamba said in a statement that the arrests followed a detailed investigation involving the examination of available evidence, witness statements, and analysis of the sequence of events leading to the incident. Calling it a very sensitive case, police stated that lapses were found on the part of the school management. Eight students, all minors, had earlier been arrested in connection with the case. Two days ago, the sister of the deceased alleged that he had been bullied and tortured by senior students. 12-year-old dies by suicide at Arunachal Sainik School, family alleges torture by seniors In a video message, Miss Arunachal 2024, Tadu Lunia, said the school authorities informed her family on 1 November that her brother was missing during his morning physical training session and that his body was later found a few hundred metres away. She said it was initially assumed that he had taken his own life by jumping from an overhead water tank. When our family went to collect his belongings, his classmates and dormmates told us that on the night of 31 October, a group of 11 senior students eight from Class 10 and three from Class 8 entered the Class 7 dormitory and ragged everyone there, Lunia said. Apart from my brother, they asked all the other students to cover their heads with blankets. My brother was taken alone to the Class 10 dormitory. We dont know what happened behind closed doors, she added. Quoting her brothers dormmates, she alleged that he had been prevented from sleeping and was mentally and physically harassed in the Class 10 dormitory. Some said he was forced to write that he was a thief because he had taken some books from seniors without permission. The investigating officer showed us a short CCTV clip in which my brother appeared to be moving restlessly that morning, clearly showing how stressed and disturbed he was, Lunia said. He was also seen entering a classroom and writing a note. His last words were, Seniors tortured me a lot, and I dont know what I will do now, she added. (If you are having suicidal thoughts, or are worried about a friend or need emotional support, someone is always there to listen. Call Sneha Foundation - 04424640050, Tele Manas - 14416 (available 24x7) or iCall, the Tata Institute of Social Sciences' helpline - 02225521111, which is available Monday to Saturday from 8 am to 10 pm.)
Congress moves to set House in order in Himachal Pradesh
Himachal Pradesh Congress is reorganizing its state unit after two years. The party high command is meeting MLAs to finalize leadership. A formula of one state president and four working presidents is being considered. The rivalry between former CM Virbhadra Singh's family and CM Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu is a key factor.
Himachal BJP MLA Hans Raj booked under POCSO Act for alleged sexual assault on minor
CHANDIGARH: Himachal Pradesh BJP MLA Hans Raj has been booked by the state police under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act after a complainant accused him of assaulting her when she was a minor. The 42-year-old legislator of the saffron party from the Churah Assembly constituency in Chamba district was booked under Section 6 of the POCSO Act and Section 69 (sexual intercourse by employing deceitful means) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS). The complaint was lodged on Friday at the Womens Police Station. Last week, the woman went live on Facebook, leveling serious allegations of sexual exploitation and intimidation against the MLA and his aides, claiming to possess supporting evidence. She uploaded a seven-minute video alleging that the legislator had ruined her family and that she feared for her life. In response, Hans Raj released a video terming the allegations baseless and politically motivated. Subsequently, her father told the media that the MLAs aides had kidnapped them, broken their mobile phones, and threatened to burn down their house if they did not withdraw the case. A senior police officer said that a case was registered at the Womens Police Station in Chamba on Friday evening after the victim, who is in her early twenties, alleged that she was sexually abused by the MLA when she was a minor. Her statement was recorded before a magistrate, and a medical examination was conducted, he said. This development comes shortly after a First Information Report (FIR) was registered against Hans Raj on November 6 under Sections 140(3), 115(2), 351(2), 324(4), and 3(5) of the BNS at the Tissa Police Station for offences related to kidnapping, wrongful confinement, assault, and criminal intimidation. The complaint, filed by the victims father, accused the legislator, his personal secretary Lekh Raj, and another associate, Muniyan Khan, of forcibly taking his daughter and him to Shimla and threatening them with dire consequences if they did not change their earlier statement. In August last year, a case had also been registered against the legislator at the Womens Police Station in Chamba on the complaint of the same woman, who had alleged that the MLA was sending obscene messages, demanding nude photos, and threatening her. However, a few days later, she went live on social media and withdrew her allegations, claiming she had made them under mental duress. Responding to the renewed allegations, Hans Raj described them as a politically motivated conspiracy aimed at maligning his image. Meanwhile, Himachal Pradesh Womens Commission Chairperson Vidya Negi has sought a report on the case from the Chamba Police. Hans Raj is the third BJP leader from the state to face sexual assault charges in the past month. On October 11, the Solan police arrested 81-year-old Ram Kumar Bindal, elder brother of Himachal Pradesh BJP President Rajiv Bindal, for allegedly raping a 25-year-old woman. On October 14, a rape case was registered against Brijeshwar, son of former Shimla MP Virender Kashyap, for allegedly having physical relations with a woman on the pretext of marriage. She lodged the complaint after discovering that he was already married.
Mhatre replaces Jaiswal in Mumbai squad for Ranji
Mumbai, Nov 6: Young opening batter Ayush Mhatre on Thursday replaced India opener Yashasvi Jaiswal in the Mumbai squad for the Ranji Trophy match against Himachal Pradesh beginning here on Saturday. The 42-time champions Mumbai, who have one win and two draws so far this season, will play their second home game at the BKC []
Six Himachal Congress leaders summoned to Delhi; new State Chief likely within 10 days: CM Sukhu
The Himachal Pradesh Congress Committee is accelerating the appointment of a new president, with six key contenders meeting the party high command in Delhi. Chief Minister Sukhu confirmed the announcement within ten days, following months of organizational limbo after the dissolution of state units. The decision aims to rejuvenate the party ahead of upcoming elections.
NHPC Jammu wins Inter-Regional Volleyball tourney
Excelsior Sports Correspondent JAMMU, Nov 6: The Volleyball Team of NHPC Regional Office, Jammu, clinched the NHPC Inter-Regional Volleyball Tournament held at Chamera-II Power Station, Chamba, Himachal Pradesh. Teams from various NHPC Regional Offices across the country participated with great enthusiasm. In a thrilling final match, the Jammu team defeated the NHPC Faridabad team by 3-1, securing the championship title for the first time. The victorious team presented the trophy to Ram Swaroop, Executive Director, NHPC RO Jammu, who congratulated [] The post NHPC Jammu wins Inter-Regional Volleyball tourney appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Himachal Pradesh: Attempted abduction sparks communal tension in Sundernagar
CHANDIGARH: Communal tension erupted on Wednesday evening in Sundernagar town, Mandi district, Himachal Pradesh, as members of two communities came face to face, leading to a fight and heated arguments over allegations of harassment and an attempted abduction of a 13-year-old schoolgirl by a 38-year-old married man from a minority community. Sources said that the 38-year-old man had allegedly been stalking the girl for several days. On Wednesday, he reportedly arrived in an SUV near the minors house and attempted to abduct her. The girls family intervened, but the accused allegedly misbehaved with them. This prompted locals to gather at the spot, thrash him, smear his face with black paint, and hand him over to the police. As the police recorded statements from the victim and her relatives, members of the accuseds community reportedly entered the police station, created a disturbance, and engaged in heated arguments with the people accompanying the girls father. The incident also caused a traffic jam in the area. Additional police forces were called in as members of both communities gathered outside the police station, and the situation was eventually brought under control. The incident resulted in the registration of three First Information Reports (FIRs). Deputy Superintendent of Police, Sundernagar, Bharat Bhushan, confirmed that one FIR was registered against the man who attempted to abduct the minor under relevant sections of the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act and the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), and the vehicle involved has been impounded. The second FIR was registered against the relatives of the accused for creating a disturbance at the police station, while the third FIR was filed against those who assaulted the accused. The police stated that the accused will be produced in court.
Homeland Group Expands Footprint to Gurugram, Strengthening Its North India Presence
Homeland Group , one of North India’s fastest-growing real estate developers, has announced its strategic expansion into the National Capital Region with the inauguration of its new corporate office on the top floor of Baani The Statement, Golf Course Road, Gurugram. The move marks a major step in the Group’s journey from its roots in Punjab to India’s most dynamic real estate hub, reinforcing its ambition to become a pan-India brand built on trust, innovation, and quality. Homeland Group unveils its new corporate office in Gurugram, strengthening its North India presence Guided by the foresight of Shri Krishan Aggarwal, Director, Unity Group, and Shri Hemant Jindal, and led by Mrinaal Mittal and Abhay Jindal, Managing Directors of Homeland Group , the company continues to diversify its portfolio while staying rooted in its core values of quality, trust, and innovation. Speaking on the Group’s broader vision, Umang Jindal, CEO, Homeland Group , said, “ Homeland began with a simple vision — to create developments that people are proud to own and experience. Over time, that commitment to quality and credibility has shaped our reputation. Expanding to Gurugram is a natural progression of that vision — it places us at the center of India’s real estate capital and opens a new chapter of growth for the Group. With a robust project pipeline and consistent performance across premium real estate segments we are now preparing for its public listing in FY27, signaling the next phase of growth as one of North India’s most trusted and future-focused real estate developers .” The inauguration ceremony began with a Sunderkand Path by Shri Ajay Bhai Ji, followed by a dinner gathering attended by the Group’s leadership, associates, and well-wishers. Homeland Group has built a strong track record across the Tricity region, having delivered over 3 million sq. ft. of premium developments and currently developing over 10 million sq. ft. for the next four to five years. Its landmark projects — Homeland Heights, Homeland Regalia, and CP67 Mall — have established benchmarks in quality, design, and value within the Mohali market. The Group’s flagship upcoming project, Homeland Global Park, spans nearly 5 million sq. ft. and is positioned as North India’s largest mixed-use development, integrating commercial, retail, hospitality, and residential spaces in Mohali. Under its luxury brand Ikaahi, the Group is entering the second homes and resort-living segment with projects planned in Goa and Himachal Pradesh. Building on its strong delivery record, Homeland Group is actively expanding its footprint across North India with new launches planned in Amritsar and Ludhiana, while also evaluating larger mixed-use opportunities across Delhi NCR and other high-growth destinations.
Fresh Snowfall In High Altitude Areas Of Himachal
Shimla, Nov 5: Fresh snowfall was recorded in high altitude areas in Himachal Pradesh on Wednesday, bringing cheers to the locals and tourists who braved extreme cold conditions. The tribal district of Lahaul and Spiti and the higher reaches of Kinnaur, Kullu and mountain passes received fresh snowfall, causing a drop in mercury and creating chilly weather in adjoining valleys. Videos of the snowfall have surfaced on the internet. The Lahaul valley, Rohtang Pass and other higher reaches were wrapped [] The post Fresh Snowfall In High Altitude Areas Of Himachal appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu emphasised that the state governments priority is to provide quality technical education and market-relevant skills to students. Reviewing the Technical Education Department, he expressed concern over vacant buildings worth Rs 126.45 crore and directed their optimum use. Sukhu announced plans to fill vacancies, introduce new-age courses like M Tech (EV-Tech), and promote innovation through the upcoming Digital University and the State Innovation and Start-Up Policy-2025.
India's Naturally Made Apple Cider, ANIMAL, Wins Gold in the Blind Tasting Category AT Spiritz 2025
ANIMAL , India’s first 15% Apple Cider crafted with Himalayan apples, has won the Gold Medal in the Blind Tasting Category at the Spiritz Conclave & Achievers’ Awards 2025. Made by the Indian Wine Company (IWC), ANIMAL is known for being naturally fermented, no added ENA (Extra Neutral Alcohol), and no expiry date: making it one of the most naturally crafted drinks available in India today. Moksh Rajpal and Divesh Gupta receives award in the blind tasting category at Spiritz 2025 The Spiritz Awards recognise the finest beverages in India for their taste and quality. Winning Gold in a blind tasting, where judges don’t know which brand they are sampling, proves the authentic flavour and natural quality of ANIMAL. Every sip of ANIMAL comes from apples from Himachal Pradesh. Made through a natural fermentation process. Moksh Rajpal, Chief of Staff, Indian Wine Company . “We wanted to create something that feels real, honest, and proudly Indian. It’s made for everyone who loves great taste without compromise.” This achievement not only cements ANIMAL’s place within the fraternity, but also highlights the rise of Indian-origin, innovation-led brands redefining global quality benchmarks. With its distinctive 15% cider composition and unapologetically bold character, ANIMAL is spearheading a new era of experimentation and craftsmanship in the Indian beverage space, one where local ingredient meets international standards. At a competitive price, ANIMAL offers consumers a drink that’s both premium and natural, blending India’s richness with world-class quality. Whether you’re celebrating, relaxing, or sharing moments with friends, ANIMAL stands apart as the drink that’s naturally perfect, and perfectly natural. About ANIMAL ANIMAL is India’s first 15% Apple Cider, made from Himalayan apples. Naturally fermented and NO ENA. Born in India and crafted by the Indian Wine Company (IWC), ANIMAL is made for those who value purity, taste, and authenticity in every sip.
LG Sinha Inaugurates Jhiri Mela, Urges People To Follow Baba Jittos Path Of Selfless Service
JAMMU, Nov 4: Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Tuesday inaugurated the 10-day annual Jhiri Mela on the outskirts of Jammu city. Every year around 10-12 lakh devotees, mainly from Jammu region, Punjab, Himachal Pradesh and Haryana, visit the fair to commemorate the sacrifice of Baba Jittoo, who gave up his life in protest against the oppressive demands of a landlord about 500 years ago. The LG urged people to take a pledge to embrace the path of [] The post LG Sinha Inaugurates Jhiri Mela, Urges People To Follow Baba Jittos Path Of Selfless Service appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Cough syrup tragedy: SIT arrests wife of accused doctor in MP case
CHHINDWARA: The Special Investigation Team (SIT) probing the cough syrup tragedy that claimed the lives of 24 children in Madhya Pradesh has arrested the wife of accused Dr Praveen Soni, an official said on Tuesday. Dr Soni, based in Chhindwara, was arrested last month for alleged negligence after prescribing the contaminated cough syrup Coldrif to several ailing children who later died due to kidney failure. His wife, Jyoti Soni, another accused in the case, was arrested from her residence in Parasia town of Chhindwara district on Monday night, according to Sub-Divisional Officer of Police and SIT in-charge Jitendra Jaat. She is the proprietor of a medical shop from where the cough syrup was sold to several of the victims, the official added. So far, seven people have been arrested in connection with the tragedy. Following the deaths, the Tamil Nadu government revoked the licence of the cough syrups manufacturer, Sresan Pharma. Those arrested include Sresan Pharmas owner G. Ranganathan, medical representative Satish Verma, chemist K. Maheshwari, wholesaler Rajesh Soni, and pharmacist Sourabh Jain. A total of 24 children in Madhya Pradesh, most under the age of five, reportedly died from suspected kidney failure after being administered Coldrif cough syrup. At least three similar deaths were reported in neighbouring Rajasthan. The tragedy prompted the World Health Organisation (WHO) to issue an alert against three substandard oral cough syrups identified in India, Coldrif, Respifresh TR, and ReLife. The cough syrup catastrophe On October 2, the Tamil Nadu Directorate of Drugs Control found that Coldrif samples were not of standard quality. Three days later, Madhya Pradesh authorities reported that one sample of Coldrif contained 48.6 per cent diethylene glycol, a toxic chemical, far exceeding the permissible impurity limit of 0.1 per cent. The Madhya Pradesh police subsequently arrested Dr Praveen Soni for alleged negligence. Following the deaths, the sale of the syrup was banned in Tamil Nadu, Madhya Pradesh, Kerala, Karnataka, Punjab, Himachal Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, Puducherry, West Bengal, and Delhi. Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav said that those responsible would not be spared. The state government also suspended the drug controller and assistant drug controller for negligence in testing random samples of the medicine, and formed the SIT to investigate the case. Meanwhile, the Tamil Nadu government has sealed Sresan Pharmas manufacturing unit after the deaths came to light.
Schools across several Indian states, including Punjab, Haryana, Delhi, Uttarakhand, and Himachal Pradesh, will remain closed on 5 November 2025 to mark Guru Nanak Jayanti, commemorating the birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev Ji. The festival, celebrated with devotion and community service, holds immense significance in Sikhism. However, states like Maharashtra, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, and West Bengal will keep schools open, while Uttar Pradesh allows district administrations to decide holiday observance locally.
Renuka Used to Play Cricket With Boys During Childhood: Mother Sunita
Renuka, who hails from Himachal Pradesh's Parsa village in Rohru tehsil in Shimla district, played a major role in the Indian team's maiden World Cup title win
Punjab seeks Amit Shahs intervention over Centres move to add BBMB members from Rajasthan, Himachal
CHANDIGARH: The Punjab Government has now sought the intervention of Union Home Minister Amit Shah after the Union Government decided to appoint two new members to the Bhakra Beas Management Board (BBMB) from Rajasthan and Himachal Pradesh, terming it incremental federal erosion. Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann has written a letter to Amit Shah urging him to advise the Ministry of Power not to create additional posts of whole-time members. Further, the ministry may fill the vacant posts of members following the earlier arrangement under which one member got appointed from Punjab and another from Haryana, he wrote, adding that there could not be more than two whole-time members of the board. Drawing attention to Section 79 of the Punjab Reorganisation Act, Mann stated that Punjab has already challenged the constitutional vires of Sections 78 and 79 of the Punjab Reorganisation Act, 1966, in the Supreme Court. A civil suit (No. 2 of 2007) is still pending for decision, he said. On October 10, the Union Ministry of Power had written to the four partner states - Punjab, Haryana, Rajasthan, and Himachal Pradesh - seeking their comments on its proposal to increase the number of whole-time members from two (one each from Punjab and Haryana) to four. The ministry said that based on requests from Rajasthan and Himachal for increasing the number of whole-time members, it had proposed amendments to Section 79(2)(a) of the Punjab Reorganisation Act, 1966. The Punjab Government has been objecting to granting equal representation to Rajasthan and Himachal, saying its share was 58 per cent and it bore the maximum expense of the board.
Western disturbance likely to reduce temps in northern, central India
NEW DELHI: A fresh Western Disturbance is set to affect the Western Himalayan region this week, bringing snowfall to higher reaches and rainfall to lower areas, marking the onset of winter in North and Central India. Following this, the temperatures are expected to drop by 3 to 4 degrees Celsius said the India Meteorological Department (IMD). This may offer temporary relief from pollution across Northwest India. According to the IMD, thunderstorms with lightning and gusty winds of 40 to 50 km/h are likely over Jammu, Kashmir, Ladakh, and Gilgit-Baltistan from November 4 to 6. Rain and thunderstorms are also expected in Rajasthan on November 3 and 4, Himachal Pradesh on November 4 and 5, Uttarakhand on November 4, and Punjab on November 4 and 5. Experts suggest that after the passage of the Western Disturbance, we will see the formal arrival of winter in the Northern, Central and Eastern plains. Night temperatures are likely to fall from the second week of November due to radiational cooling (less cloud cover and water vapour), and advectional cooling (horizontal transfer of cold air), said Debasish Jena, an agrometeorology researcher at GB Pant University of Agriculture and Technology. Meanwhile, Haryana and Delhi may receive light to moderate rain on November 4 and 5, with shallow fog already observed at Safdarjung Airport. Winters at hand Temperatures in northern, central India to drop by 3-4C Thunderstorms, gusty winds predicted over J&K, Ladakh, from Nov 4 to Nov 6 Winters to start formally in the Northern, Central, and Eastern Plains post western disturbance Night temperatures to drop from 2nd week of November in north, central & east India Low-pressure areas over northeast Arabian Sea & east-central Bay of Bengal observed
She Is Like My Daughter: Himachal MLA Denies Allegations Of Harassment
A woman in Chamba, Himachal Pradesh has accused BJP MLA Hans Raj of harassing her and threatening her family members, even as the legislator dismissed the allegations.
Kharge, Rahul, Priyanka among Congress' 40 star campaigners for second phase Bihar polls
NEW DELHI : Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge and senior leaders Sonia Gandhi, Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, along with Kanhaiya Kumar and Independent MP Pappu Yadav, are among the party's 40 star campaigners for the second phase of the Bihar assembly polls. AICC in-charge of Bihar Krishna Allavaru, Bihar Congress chief Rajesh Ram, Congress general secretaries K C Venugopal, Bhupesh Baghel, Sachin Pilot, Randeep Surjewala and Syed Naseer Hussain, as well as senior leaders Ashok Gehlot, Tariq Anwar, Gaurav Gogoi, Mohammad Jawed and Akhilesh Prasad Singh, are also on the list. The Bihar polls will be held in two phases on November 6 and 11, and results will be announced on November 14. The opposition INDIA bloc, which has RJD, Congress and Left parties as the main constituents, on Thursday declared RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav its chief ministerial candidate for the Bihar polls. Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, senior leaders Digvijaya Singh, Adhir Ranjan Choudhary, Meira Kumar, Pramord Tiwiri, Ajay Rai, Imran Pratapgarhi, Pawan Khera, Shakeel Ahmed, Ranjeet Ranjan, Rajesh Ranjan alias Pappu Yadav, Jignesh Mevani, Anil Jaihind and Rajendra Pal Gautam are also on the star campaigners list for the second phase of polls released by the party.
Building farm resilience when hills crumble & fields flood
Prof B N Tripathi vcskuastjammu@gmail.com Climate change has ceased to be a distant scientific term; it has become a lived reality for farmers across India. When rains concentrate into hours rather than days, steep slopes fail, gullies widen, and agricultural terraces collapse. The recent heavy rains, cloudbursts, and landslides in the hilly regions of Jammu & Kashmir and Himachal Pradesh, coupled with flooding in the plains of Punjab, have once again reminded us how fragile our agricultural systems are when [] The post Building farm resilience when hills crumble & fields flood appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Himachal records wettest October in 20 years; receives 173% above normal rainfall: IMD
Himachal Pradesh recorded its wettest October in two decades, with rainfall 173% above normal. Sirmaur, Kangra, and Solan districts received the highest precipitation, while Naina Devi and Solan experienced extremely heavy rainfall. The state anticipates light rain or snow on November 4 and 5, with dry weather expected for the remainder of the week.
Health Biotech Strengthens Global Footprint at CPHI Frankfurt 2025
Health Biotech Limited (Health Biotech), a research and development-driven pharmaceutical company from India, successfully concluded its participation at CPHI Frankfurt 2025. Considered one of the most respected global gatherings for the pharmaceutical industry, the three-day international event, themed “ Shaping Pharma’s Future ,” was held from October 28 to 30 in Frankfurt, Germany, and brought together experts and innovators from across continents. Mr. Parmjit Arora with clients at CPHI Frankfurt 2025 At the event, Health Biotech received a warm response from a steady flow of visitors, including international business delegates, among others. The company's product line and manufacturing capability showcased at the expo attracted significant attention from overseas customers, also enhancing Health Biotech's image as a quality-oriented pharmaceutical manufacturer. Health Biotech representative and clients at CPHI Frankfurt 2025 Speaking about the company’s participation, Mr. Parmjit Arora, Managing Director, Health Biotech Limited said, “ Events like CPHI Frankfurt open meaningful dialogues with global partners who share our belief in quality and innovation. Our participation this year reflects the steady progress we’ve made in research-led manufacturing. From oncology injectables to advanced drug delivery systems, every collaboration strengthens our commitment to making reliable and affordable medicines accessible worldwide, built on a foundation of scientific integrity .” Mr. Amrit Arora, Director, Health Biotech Limited was also present at the venue. Health Biotech is renowned for formulating and manufacturing cost-effective, high-quality generic and innovative drugs. Its core business is injectables, including lyophilized, dry, and liquid forms, as well as liposomal injectables, pre-filled syringes, liquid ampoules and vials. The portfolio also includes eye, ear, and nasal drops, sterile, non-sterile ointments, and liquid as well as dry syrups, making it one of the few Indian firms with such a wide sterile range. Health Biotech's manufacturing facility, located in the foothills of the Himalayas in the Baddi industrial belt, is WHO-GMP and ISO 9001:2008 certified and complies with MHRA norms. The facility is equipped with advanced executory features like auto-tunnel sterilization, lyophilization capacity and form-fill-seal process for sterile injectables and prefilled syringes. The company began commercial operations in 2005 and was amongst one of the earliest manufacturers to set up a plant in the excise-free zone. Over time, it evolved into a dependable contract manufacturer for some of India’s biggest pharmaceutical companies such as Cipla, Cadila, Piramal, Vetoquinol, and Lupin. Its steady growth has resulted in creating over 100,000 square feet of manufacturing space, accommodating an innovative and fast-expanding range of products. In 2009, Health Biotech entered its own marketing journey across India and global markets. Alongside this, it established a Government of India–approved R&D Centre, working on areas such as nano-particle and liposomal drug delivery, plant-based research, and bio-waste utilization. Some of its major projects include the purification of heparin from bio-waste and the development of recombinant DARBEPOETIN ALFA. Health Biotech produces close to 1,000 pharmaceuticals across major therapeutic categories - oncology, hormones, critical care, and higher antibiotics. Its products range from injectables, syrups, prefilled syringes to creams, ointments, drops, and more. Health Biotech's leadership position in oncology, injectables, hormonal products, and cardiovascular pharmaceuticals is a testament to its manufacturing capability and flexibility. Health Biotech's participation in CPHI Frankfurt 2025 was a reflection of its compliance with global standards, as much as, a reflection of its mission to build long-term global relations. The overwhelming response at the show spoke volumes about the confidence the company has earned with its consistent quality, niche innovation, and scientific excellence. About Health Biotech Limited Founded in 2005, Health Biotech Limited is an India-based pharmaceutical organization with a research-driven approach. The company specializes in the development and manufacturing of high-quality, affordable formulations in the areas of oncology, hormones, critical care, and antibiotics. Health Biotech with its WHO-GMP certified production unit in Baddi, Himachal Pradesh has expanded its presence in both Indian and global markets by its expansive offerings across a broad spectrum of injectables, syrups, ointments and latest drug delivery systems. healthbiotech.in
Fading charm: Tourists give Naini lake a miss
NAINITAL: Despite the state governments efforts to boost tourism under the ethos of Atithi Devo Bhava (The Guest is God), the lake town of Nainital is failing to draw back its once-flourishing community of foreign visitors. Once a premier destination known for its serene lake, stunning natural beauty, and tranquil atmosphere, Nainital is now grappling with a noticeable slump in international footfall. Just a few years ago, foreign tourists were a common sight strolling through the bustling markets of Mallital and Tallital, enjoying boat rides, or simply soaking in the lakeside vistas. Today, those same lanes seem to yearn for that. The number of foreign tourists has significantly dropped over the past few years, noted one long-time hotelier. Where every hotel used to host international guests during the peak season, bookings are now negligible. Many international travelers, it appears, are opting for alternative destinations like Himachal Pradesh, Ladakh, or locations in South India. Furthermore, perennial issues within Nainital, such as crippling traffic jams, limited parking facilities, and overcrowding, are reportedly making the experience inconvenient for overseas visitors. Tourism experts stress the urgent need for the city to adopt a Sustainable Tourism Model if it hopes to see global visitors return. Nainitals relationship with tourism stretches back to its very inception as a settlement in the 19th century. Professor Ajay Rawat, a renowned historian based in Nainital, shared his insights with this paper. Tourism in Nainital began in the 19th century when urbanization started in 1841. At that time, the town gained popularity as a health resort, Professor Rawat explained. English residents stationed in the plains would visit Nainital to recuperate. Later, towards the end of the 20th century, Mary Jim Corbett, mother of the famous hunter Jim Corbett, gave tourism a new dimension. He detailed how World War I temporarily halted the influx, but tourism boomed again afterward. After World War II, the town hosted Royal Air Force personnel. The presence of war graves of British soldiers also attracted their families here. However, according to critics, governmental apathy has nearly extinguished international tourism here.
Meghalaya storm into semifinals of Sub-Junior Boys NFC
By Our Reporter Shillong, Oct 30: Meghalaya marched into the semifinals of the Sub-Junior Boys National Football Championship 2025-26 (Tier 2) with a commanding 4-0 victory over Himachal Pradesh in their final Group C encounter held at Narainpur, Chhattisgarh, on Wednesday morning. It was yet another dazzling performance from Meghalayas in-form striker Marbiang Marwein, who []
Sukhu urges Nadda to increase allocation under NHM by Rs 200 crore
NEW DELHI, Oct 30: Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu urged Union Health Minister Jagat Prakash Nadda to raise the states allocation under National Health Mission (NHM) by Rs 200 crore. Sukhu sought approval to establish three dedicated Intensive Care Units in the state at the earliest during a meeting at Naddas residence here on Wednesday evening. The chief minister also requested that the Centres share under the Ayushman Bharat scheme be maintained at 90:10, considering the challenging [] The post Sukhu urges Nadda to increase allocation under NHM by Rs 200 crore appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
HP TET admit card 2025 released at hpbose.org: Direct link to download hall tickets here
The Himachal Pradesh Board of School Education (HPBOSE) has released the admit cards for the Himachal Pradesh Teacher Eligibility Test (HP TET) 2025. Candidates can download their hall tickets from the official website, hpbose.org. The HP TET November session will be held from November 2 to 16, 2025, in two shifts each day.
CM Himachal meets Dr Jitendra, discusses strengthening disaster forecast, preparedness for State
Excelsior Correspondent NEW DELHI, Oct 29: The Chief Minister of Himachal Pradesh, Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, called on Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science & Technology, Dr. Jitendra Singh, and discussed the strengthening of weather forecasting and disaster preparedness infrastructure in the hill state. During the meeting, the Chief Minister conveyed his gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the Government of India for installing a Doppler Weather Radar in Himachal Pradesh, which has significantly enhanced the accuracy of [] The post CM Himachal meets Dr Jitendra, discusses strengthening disaster forecast, preparedness for State appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
SIR will weed out fake voters, identify infiltrators, oppn shouldnt have problem with it: Kangana
SHIMLA, Oct 29: BJP MP Kangana Ranaut on Wednesday said the opposition parties should not have any problem with the special intensive revision of electoral rolls as the exercise would weed out fake voters, and identify infiltrators and those selling voter cards. Interacting with reporters after chairing a meeting of the District Development Coordination and Monitoring Committee in Himachal Pradeshs Mandi, the actor-politician said the electoral roll cleanup exercise would bring more transparency to the system. It will identify fake [] The post SIR will weed out fake voters, identify infiltrators, oppn shouldnt have problem with it: Kangana appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Himachal CM urges FM to increase additional borrowing limit for state by 2 pc
In a strategic move to strengthen Himachal Pradesh's fiscal framework, Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu engaged with Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, advocating for a significant increase in the state's borrowing capacity. Additionally, he appealed to Union Minister Jitendra Singh to prioritize advanced weather monitoring technologies and the establishment of bio-manufacturing centers.
Himachal Pradesh CM asks Centre for Doppler weather radar, automated weather stations
In a meeting with Union Minister of State Dr. Jitendra Singh in New Delhi, Sukhvinder Sukhu urges the govt. to provide it for the hill State before the beginning of the next monsoon season
Himachal seeks Centres help for Doppler radar, 150 weather stations to tackle climate disasters
CHANDIGARH: In the wake of recent cloudbursts and flash floods, the Himachal Pradesh government has urged the Union Government to provide one Doppler weather radar and 150 Automatic Weather Stations (AWS) across the state to ensure that every district, particularly the disaster-prone areas, is better equipped to handle future weather-related challenges. Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu held a meeting with Minister of State for Science and Technology and Earth Sciences Dr Jitendra Singh in New Delhi on Tuesday evening and requested that adequate Doppler weather radar and automatic weather stations be provided to ensure early and quick warnings related to natural disasters in the state. Sukhu said that due to the geological positioning of Himachal Pradesh and the growing impact of global warming and climate change, the state has witnessed an alarming rise in the occurrence of natural disasters. He noted that the state was suffering huge losses as a result and requested that one Doppler weather radar and 150 automated weather stations be provided before the next monsoon season so the state could benefit from timely weather updates. He also thanked the Union minister for approving a Doppler radar for Lahaul-Spiti. Sukhu said that weather-related data should be integrated with centrally recognised national early warning agencies so that the state could receive accurate and timely alerts about adverse weather conditions. The Chief Minister further requested the establishment of a seismic laboratory and data analysis centre in the Kangra-Hamirpur zone, which falls within seismic zone-V and is highly prone to earthquakes. He also urged the installation of two additional air monitoring systems in higher reaches of the state, a weather data centre at Hamirpur, and compact weather radars in shadow areas. Sukhu stressed that modern warning, monitoring, and data analysis systems must be set up in Himachal due to the rising frequency of natural disasters in recent years, calling it the need of the hour. He also called for the setting up of a bio-manufacturing hub to make better use of plant-based natural resources in the state and emphasised the need to establish plant-based packaging units to promote environmental protection and sustainable development. In addition, he sought support to strengthen space science education in the state through initiatives like the Space on Wheels programme, AI-related refresher courses, and other advanced science education modules. A detailed discussion was also held during the meeting on natural farming, land management, and renewable energy-based smart agriculture in Himachal Pradesh. Jitendra Singh appreciated the states proactive approach and reiterated that the Central Government remains fully committed to supporting all states in their efforts toward climate resilience and disaster mitigation. He said that the Ministry of Earth Sciences has been continuously expanding the countrys meteorological network, especially in hilly and remote regions, to ensure timely dissemination of critical weather information to the public and local authorities. Singh noted that advanced meteorological tools like Doppler Radars and AWS play a crucial role not only in disaster preparedness but also in sectors like agriculture, hydropower, and tourism, which form the backbone of Himachal Pradeshs economy. He assured full central support in expanding this infrastructure to cover vulnerable zones and enhance public safety. The meeting reflected a shared commitment between the Centre and the State Government to strengthen the scientific framework for forecasting and disaster management, ensuring that development in the hill state is sustainable and resilient to climate risks. Both leaders agreed that close coordination between the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) and the state authorities will further enhance Himachal Pradeshs capacity to respond effectively to extreme weather events.
Australian paraglider who crashed near Seven Sisters Peak in Manali rescued after 20 hours
CHANDIGARH: A 51-year-old Australian paraglider, Andy, who crashed yesterday evening near the Seven Sisters Peak located at an altitude of 13,500 feet in the Manali subdivision of Kullu district in Himachal Pradesh, has been rescued after 20 hours. Sources said that the paraglider Andy, hailing from Australia, is believed to have crashed due to air pressure and adverse weather conditions. A paraglider pilot flying with him witnessed the accident and informed the rescue team, requesting assistance. Ramesh Kumar Jogi, in charge of the rescue team of the Manali Adventure Tour Association, said that Andy, who was lying on a dangerous and narrow ledge on a high mountain, was finally rescued with the help of a chopper. He is now being treated at the hospital and is out of danger. Both the pilots had come from Bir Billing in Kangra district to Manali and were flying back to Bir Billing when the crash took place. A rescue team was dispatched immediately on Monday evening to rescue Andy, who was trapped in the inaccessible hills. Andy's close call isn't rare, as paragliding accidents at popular sites like Bir Billing in Himachal have been taking place, with recent incidents involving flyers from Canada, Austria, and Russia, too. A few days ago, Megan Elizabeth, a 27-year-old Canadian paraglider who had gone missing, was found dead, while a 47-year-old Austrian paraglider, Jacob, was rescued from the high mountains of the Dhauladhar range. In the last five years, 26 paragliding crashes have been reported in Kangra and Mandi districts of the hill state, resulting in the death of 12 paragliders, including foreign nationals, and injury to many. In some incidents, neither the pilot nor the glider could be located.
GOC Rising Star Corps Reviews Operational Readiness at Palchan Station
Jammu, Oct 28: Lieutenant General Rajan Sharawat, General Officer Commanding (GOC) of the Rising Star Corps, on Tuesday reviewed the operational readiness of troops stationed at the Palchan Military Station in Himachal Pradesh. During the visit, the Corps Commander commended the high standards of preparedness and lauded the efforts of all ranks in maintaining mission [] The post GOC Rising Star Corps Reviews Operational Readiness at Palchan Station appeared first on Northlines .
GoC Rising Star Corps Reviews Operation Readiness At Palchan Military Station
JAMMU, Oct 28: General Officer Commanding (GOC) of the Rising Star Corps, Lieutenant General Rajan Sharawat on Tuesday reviewed the operational readiness of troops at the Palchan Military Station in Himachal Pradesh. He appreciated the high standards of preparedness and the efforts of all ranks in maintaining mission readiness. GOC Rising Star Corps reviewed the operational readiness at Palchan Military Station and Pandoh, PRO Defence Jammu said on X. The post GoC Rising Star Corps Reviews Operation Readiness At Palchan Military Station appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Jammu Police wrestler Ishaq lifts 6th Kalka Kesari Dangal Title
Excelsior Sports Correspondent REASI, Oct 27: Jammu and Kashmir Police wrestler Ishaq Ahmed clinched the 6th Kalka Kesari Dangal Title by defeating Sonu of Kangra in Himachal Pradesh in a high-voltage first malli bout that lasted nine minutes at Kalka Akhara, Nai Basti, Reasi. Ahmed was honoured with a cash award of Rs 61,000, while runner-up Sonu received Rs 40,000. The Kanta Kushti Dangal was organized by Kalka Akhara Dangal Committee in association with J&K Indian Style Wrestling Association under [] The post Jammu Police wrestler Ishaq lifts 6th Kalka Kesari Dangal Title appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Himachal suffered losses of Rs 46,000 crore due to natural calamities in 4 years: Report
Over the past four years, Himachal Pradesh has faced staggering losses of 46,000 crore attributed to the escalating impacts of climate change and a series of natural disasters. The recent monsoon season tragically claimed 1,700 lives, while vital water sources continue to dwindle and forest fires have reached alarming frequencies.
