Old students of RPCSDB college to form old student’s association

The old students of erstwhile Rana Padam Chander Sanatam Dharam College Shimla have decided to form Old Student’s Association of the college. The decision was taken in a meet held at Shimla in this regard on Monday in which nearly fifty old students of the college were present. Convenor of the group of old students…

DC Mandi stresses need of providing true facts in the era of misinformation

Deputy Commissioner Mandi Apoorv Devgan stressed the need of providing factual information to people through media. Speaking in a seminar organized to celebrate the national press day on Saturday at Mandi on the topic ‘changing form of press’ he said, “The press is considered one of the four pillars of democracy; from the freedom movement…

Devotees resent increase in entry fee for darshan on priority in Chintpurni temple

The decision of Shri Chintpurni Temple Board to enhance entry fee for groups of devotees seeking darshan on priority and for senior citizens at Chintpurni temple in Una district, has invited public criticism. The temple board has enhanced the entry fee for groups seeking  quick darshan substantially as the entry fee for groups will now…

HP Govt giving relief package to disaster affected families – CM

Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu announced a relief package for monsoon disaster affected people of Samej area of Rampur and Baghi area of Anni on Wednesday while speaking in the closing ceremony of Lavi fair at Rampur on Thursday . He said, “The families who lost their homes completely in the flash floods would receive Rs. 7…

Governor and CM express grief over martyrdom of Havaldar Suresh Kumar

Himachal Pradesh Governor Shiv Pratap Shukla and Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu have expressed grief over martyrdom of Havaldar Suresh Kumar in Leh – Ladakh. Havildar Suresh Kumar of 18 Dogra regiment, a resident of Baggi Tungal Village under Mandi sadar tehsil of Mandi district, was posted in high altitude Army post in Ladakh and…

HP High Court terms appointment of six CPS by HP Govt unconstitutional

In a major jolt to the Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu led HP government, the Himachal Pradesh High Court has termed the appointment of six Chief Parliamentary Secretaries (CPS), as unconstitutional and ordered their removal immediately. A division bench of the High Court headed by Justice Vivek Thakur and Justice Bipin Chander Negi pronouncing judgment on Wednesday…

Mortal remains of martyred Army JCO Rakesh Kumar cremated with Army and state honour

The mortal remains of Naib Subedar Rakesh Kumar were consigned to flames with military and state honour on Tuesday at his ancestral village Barnog under Chhamyar Panchayat of Nachan Assembly constituency of Mandi district.   Naib Subedar RaKesh Kumar was killed in encounter with terrorists on Sunday during a combing operation in remote forest area…

Justice Sanjiv Khanna sworn in as Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of India

Justice Sanjiv Khanna was sworn in as the 51st Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of India on Monday.   Justice Khanna succeeds Justice D Y Chandrachud, who demitted office on Sunday on attaining the age of 65 years. President of India Droupadi Murmu administered the oath to Justice Khanna at a swearing-in ceremony held at…

Former Deputy Mayor of MC Shimla Tikender Panwar nominated as an expert by Union Ministry of Urban Development

Former Deputy Mayor of Shimla Municipal Corporation (MC) Tikender Singh Panwar has been nominated as an expert by Union Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUA) in a group constituted by the Central government for the  formation of a Model Municipal Act aimed at strengthening democratic governance and improving urban administration across the nation. Panwar…

CID inquiry for lapse in serving samosa and pastry to CM turns into a controversy

The inquiry by state CID in lapse on the part of certain CID officials in serving snacks (samosa and pastry) to Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, has embroiled into a major controversy as BJP leaders have ridiculed the inquiry in a minor incident. A top officer of the CID had ordered an inquiry…

HP CM asks SJVNL’s to comply with state govt’s energy policy or leave 3 projects

Himachal chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu said if Satluj Jal Vidyut Nigam Limited (SJVNL) is not willing to comply with the state government’s energy policy the state government is ready to take over three projects i.e. 210 MW Luhri Phase-1, 382 MW Sunni Project and 66 MW Dhaulasidh hydropower projects, assigned to SJVNL and sought…

Himachal Pradesh Congress Committee dissolved

The All India Congress Committee (AICC) has dissolved the state unit of Himachal Pradesh Congress Committee (HPCC) and all district and block level Congress committees with immediate effect. In a press release issued to the press, General Secretary of AICC KC Venugopal said, “Congress President has approved the proposal to dissolve the entire state unit…

Former CM Jai Ram Thakur opposes freebies to win elections by political parties

Former Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur has castigated the practice of giving freebies to voters to win elections and regain power by political parties.   Replying to a question while addressing a press conference at Mandi on Tuesday, Thakur said, “Giving freebies to voters to capture power in elections is a wrong practice and all…

Vanshika, a college girl from Himachal wins – World Boxing under – 19 championship

A  college girl from Jawalaji of Himachal Pradesh has done wonders by winning under -19 World Boxing Championships in the USA and brought honours for the state and India .   Vanshika Goswamy, a first-year student of Jawalaji College playing in the 80 kg weight category defeated her German opponent in the finals.  Expressing her…

Mandi girl to study Mental Health at Tata Institute of Social Sciences Mumbai

Sunishka Gupta, a girl from Mandi has brought laurels for Mandi district and the state by getting selected in Tata Institute of Social Sciences (TISS) Mumbai to pursue Masters Degree in Social Work in Mental Health. Sunishka was selected for the course after a difficult selection process by competing in Central University Entrance Test (CUET)…

Paragliding world cup begins at Bir Billing

The Paragliding World Cup started at Bir Billing on Saturday, near Baijnath in Kangra district of Himachal Pradesh. As many as 105 pilots from 38 countries are participating in the world cup under different categories, being organized for the second time at BIr Billing. The World cup paragliding competitions would continue for the next five…

HPPSC extends last date for recruitment of police constables to November 12

The Himachal Pradesh Public Service Commission (HPPSC) has extended the last date for accepting applications for the recruitment of police constables, to November 12. A spokesman of the state government said , “ On the directions of Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, the deadline for receiving  applications for the recruitment of police constables has been…

CM launches water sports in Gobind Sagar lake

Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu inaugurated water sports activities in Gobind Sagar Lake at Bilaspur on Tuesday. Several water sports activities like cruises, shikara rides, houseboats, hi-tech motorboats, jet skis and water scooters were launched on the occasion. The CM said, “The water sports will boost the tourism potential and create self employment opportunities for…

HPSEBL employees hold statewide protests to highlights demands

A state wide protest was held at sixty locations of Himachal Pradesh by employees and engineers of Himachal Pradesh State Electricity Board Ltd to highlight their various demands. The protest was held under the banner of HPSEBL Joint Front of employees and demonstrations were held at the offices of Chief Engineers, Circle and Divisional Offices…

Five die in car accident in Chauhar valley of Mandi district

Five young men lost lives in a car accident near Barthan in Chauhar valley of Mandi district on Saturday night. According to information five youths were traveling in a Maruti car on late Saturday night from Dhamchyan to Barot after attending a marriage function, when the car in which they were traveling fell into a…

HP CM launches monthly allowance scheme for women from Dodra Kwar

Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu launched Indira Gandhi Pyari Behna Sukh Samman Nidhi Yojna for Shimla district from Dodra Kwar. In a programme organized at Kwar the CM also released an amount of Rs 91.62 lakh for 12 month’s Samman Nidhi to 509 women for the area, besides Rs 45.45 lakh released under social…

Subhadra Mahajan’s film SECOND CHANCE to be screened at Dharamshala International Film Festival

After capturing the hearts of audiences and critics in Europe, Asia and the United States, Subhadra Mahajan’s debut feature film SECOND CHANCE will be screened at Dharamshala International Film Festival. The film SECOND CHANCE is a creation of Subhadra Mahajan, an impending film maker from Himachal Pradesh brought up in Shimla. She is daughter of…

Retired employees of Urban Local Bodies urge state govt to give them benefits as per 6th Pay Commission

The retired employees of Local Urban Department of Himachal Pradesh have urged the state government to give benefits of the 6th pay commission to the retired employees working in different local urban bodies of the state and release DA installment. A delegation of retired employees of Municipal Corporation Mandi and Municipal Committee Sunder Nagar, represented by…

HP Cabinet decides to engage 2061 van mitra

The Himachal Pradesh Cabinet in its meeting held at Shimla on Tueday has given its approval to  engage 2061 van mitra in the forest department.  The meeting presided over by Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu has also decided  to fill up 150 posts of nursing personnel posts at Dr.Radhakrishnan Government Medical College and Hospital, Hamirpur,…

International Conference Concludes at Siraj government college

Second International Conference was organized at Government College Siraj on 18 -19 October on the topic, “Culture language and assimilation of knowledge”.  Former Professor from Jawaharlal Nehru University New Delhi, Prof. Varyam Singh was the chief guest in the conference. Addressing the conference Prof. Varyam Singh talked about the uniqueness of the Siraji dialect. He…

The weeklong Kullu Dussehra festival concludes

The weeklong historical Kullu Dussehra festival concluded at Kullu on Saturday with the principal deity of the festival Lord Raghunath returning to its temple at Sultanpur and nearly three hundred deities camping at the Dhalpur festival ground for a week, returning to their abodes. On the last day of the festival the chariot of Lord…

HP Govt. deserves to get Shanan Power Project from Punjab – CM

Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu said, “After a century of operation of Shanan Power Project by the Punjab government, the time has come to hand over the project to Himachal Pradesh as the state deserves to get the project after expiration of the lease period.” The CM said this while talking to media…

Former IAS officer Tarun Shridhar to head review committee for HPTDC

Himachal Pradesh goverment has appointed former senior IAS officer Tarun Shridhar to head a review committee constituted to suggest ways to improve the financial position of loss making Himachal Pradesh Tourism Development Corporation (HPTDC). Shridhar, Himachal cadre IAS officer, retired as Secretary of Animal Husbandry and Fisheries department from the Central government and has held…

Nayab Singh Saini sworn in as Haryana Chief Minister

Bhartiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Nayab Singh Saini was sworn-in as the Chief Minister of Haryana for the second time on Thursday. . Haryana Governor Bandaru Dattatreya administered the oath of office to Nayab Singh Saini as the Haryana CM in a function organized at Panchkula today. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union Home Minister Amit…

Rs 21.05 crore approved for Chail Chowk – Pandoh and Mandi -Kataula – Bajaura roads

Public Works Minister Vikramaditya Singh said the Union Ministry of Road Transport and Highways has approved Rs. 21.05 crore for the improvement, strengthening and restoration of Chail Chowk-Gohar-Pandoh and Mandi-Kamand-Kataula-Bajaura roads. He said the NHAI has approved Rs. 9.16 crore for Chail Chowk-Gohar-Pandoh and Rs. 11.89 crore for Mandi-Kamand-Kataula-Bajaura road. Vikramaditya Singh said, during his…

DA of state govt. employees and pensioners increased by 4 percent

The Himachal Pradesh government has announced a 4 percent increase in dearness allowance (DA) for the state government employees and pensioners with effect from October 1, 2024. As per a notification issued by the Finance Department on Wednesday the DA for state government employees has been increased from 38 percent to 42 percent and will be paid…

Former CM accuses state govt. for delaying railway projects

The Leader of Opposition  and former Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur accused the state government for delaying the railway projects being implemented in the state,   by not contributing the state’s share for the projects on time. Talking to media persons at Mandi on Wednesday Thakur said , “ Several railway projects are being implemented in…

Election schedule of Maharashtra and Jharkhand Assembly elections announced

Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Rajiv Kumar has announced the election schedule for Maharashtra and Jharkhand Assembly elections. Talking to media persons at New Delhi on Tuesday, the CEC said, “ The  Maharashtra Assembly Elections will take place in a single phase on November 20, 2024, while  Jharkhand Assembly Elections will be held in two phases…

Mandi press club members demand cancellation of FIR against news portal

The members of Mandi press club supported by a few journalists’ organizations submitted a memorandum to Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu through Deputy Commissioner Mandi Apoorav Devgan on Monday, demanding cancellation of an FIR registered against news portal brought from Dharamshala. The members of the club said an FIR was registered against the…

Several supporters of Sonam Wangchuk detained by the Delhi Police from Ladakh Bhawan

The Delhi Police detained several activists who had come to observe a fast on Sunday in solidarity with climate activist Sonam Wangchuk on hunger strike since October 6 at Ladakh Bhawan. Sonam Wangchuk and his supporters had gone on hunger strike to press their demand of meeting Prime Minister Narendra Modi to raise various issues…

HP CM announces to pay 4 percent DA, to pay salary and pension to employees on October 28

Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu has announced to pay 4 percent DA for the state government employees and pensioners from January 1, 2023. Addressing a press conference at Shimla on Friday the CM also announced to pay the salary and pension of the employees on October 28 for the month of October, before…

Free medical camp on October 13 at Bharari village of Ghumarwien tehsil

The 14th free medical camp, being organized by the Thai Mata Mandir Sewa Samiti Kot at village Bharari under Ghumarwien Assembly Constituency in Bilaspur district, will be held in the temple premises on October 13(Sunday). Specialist doctors will examine patients in the medical camp and laboratory test facilities for many health problems would also be…

State’s first trauma center inaugurated by CM at IGMC Shimla

The first trauma center of Himachal Pradesh was inaugurated by Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu on Wednesday at Indira Gandhi Medical College (IGMC) Shimla. Built at a cost of Rs. 33 crore, the center will utilize advanced machinery and modern technology-equipped beds for patient care and will have 30 dedicated doctors, 80 nurses, paramedical staff…

Sadbhavna March held for communal peace and harmony in Mandi

Several Left and Democratic organizations organized a march through the Bazaar of Mandi against communalism and threat to communal harmony with an appeal to maintain peace and communal harmony. Carrying placards and banners the activists raised slogans against communal forces and in favour of communal peace, Earlier, a convention was also held at Vishwakarma Hall…

Rakesh Chaudhary dies by suicide

Rakesh Chaudhary, who contested Assembly elections three times for Dharamshala Vidhan Sabha  seat, ended his life by reportedly taking some poisonous substance. A police source said, “Chaudhary was brought to Dr Rajendra Prasad Medical College Tanda in a serious condition on Monday night along with his wife and died on Tuesday morning.” The Kangra police…

Central Govt doing no charity by granting funds to Himachal -CM

Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu said the funds allocated by the central government to Himachal Pradesh are the state’s rightful entitlement and not an act of charity by the Central government. Talking to media persons at Shimla on Monday, the CM said, “Himachal Pradesh is an integral part of the federal structure, where each state…

HP Govt. withdraws notification to levy so-called toilet tax

After facing strong oppositions for levying sewerage charges, the Himachal Pradesh Government announced to withdraw the notification issued on September 21, on Saturday. The notification issued by the state government had proposed to levy Rs 25 per seat per month as sewerage charges from those commercial users, who were drawing private water but using government…

Exit polls predict comfortable win for Congress in Haryana; in J&K mixed bag for INDIA block and BJP

Exit polls released after completion of election In Haryana have predicted a comfortable win for Congress in the Assembly election. Polling for the 90 members Assembly was completed at six pm on Saturday. Though the election result would be announced on October 8 after counting of votes, Congress has been given a comfortable majority in…

Sonam Wangchuk released by Delhi police

Educationist and environmental activist Sonam Wangchuk and hundreds of padyatris on a long march to Delhi from Leh, was released by the Delhi police after nearly 36 hours of detention in Delhi, on Thursday morning. Earlier, Delhi police took him to Rajghat Wednesday. After paying his tributes at the Samadhi of Mahatma Gandhi, Wangchuk said,…

Bandh in Ladakh to protest detention of Sonam Wangchuk

The detention of Educationist and Environment activist Sonam Wangchuk along with hundreds of padyatris by Delhi Police at Singhu border before entering Delhi has evoked strong reaction in Ladakh and Kargil regions and wide condemnation from the opposition leaders. As per a report from Leh, complete bandh was observed in Ladakh and protests in Kargil on…

Army officer from Hamirpur becomes Lt. Gen. in Indian Army

Lieutenant General Ranjit Singh , who was promoted to the post in the Indian Army on Tuesday, has brought laurels for Hamirpur district and Himachal Pradesh.  Lt. Gen Ranjit Singh, a resident of Hiranagar colony Hamirpur, was pinned up the promotion badges by his senior officers at Army Headquarter in New Delhi in the presence…

Bandh call in Ladakh against detention of Sonam Wangchuk by Delhi Police

While detention of Educationist and Environment activist Sonam Wangchu and hundreds of yatris on march to Delhi from Leh, by Delhi Police on Monday night at Delhi border, has been widely condemned, People’s Movement for 6th Schedule of Ladakh has given a call for Ladakh bandh on Tuesday. Sonam Wangchu and hundreds of yatris accompanying him…

Mandi by-pass tunnels opened for traffic as a trial run

Twin tunnels constructed for Mandi by- pass on the Kiratpur-Manali four-lane road project, near Mandi were opened for the traffic on Monday as a trial run by the National Highway Authority of India (NHAI). Deputy Commissioner Mandi Apoorv Devgan and officials of NHAI were present on the occasion. After the completion of four lane project…

How to prevent cardiovascular diseases

September 29, is observed as The World Heart Day . I found this article quite simple and useful. So sharing with you. Dharam Prakash Gupta How to prevent heart disease Peripheral arterial disease is cardiovascular disease. It is one of the more common cardiovascular diseases. Various factors can cause and prevent peripheral arterial disease. Peripheral…

636 awarded degrees in 12th convocation at IIT Mandi

As many as 636 pass outs got degrees in 12th convocation of the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Mandi in a ceremony held at IIT on Saturday. Among those who got the degrees were 463 male and 173 female students. Fifty five candidates were awarded PhD degrees, 16 MS/ M Tech (Research Degrees, 102 M Tech…

HP Govt. employees to get salary on October 1st, pension to be paid later

Himachal Pradesh government has decided to pay salaries to state government employees for the month of September on October 1st and pension to pensioners on October 9.   A Spokesperson of the state government said, “After review of the cash flow in the state treasury by the finance department, it has been decided the salary to…

People from all walks of life join Sadbhavana Yatra for communal peace and harmony in Shimla

People from all walks of life joined in large numbers in Sadbhavana Yatra taken out for maintaining peace and communal harmony on Friday in Shimla town, in the wake of communal tension created by certain organizations over controversy on construction of a mosque in Sanjauli area of Shimla. The Yatra organized by  Forum for Shimla…

State government backtracks from the announcement made by Vikrmaditya Singh on vendors

Backtracking from the announcement made by PWD and Urban Development Minister Vikramaditya Singh to make display of names by street vendors in Shimla mandatory, the Himachal Pradesh government said no such decision has been taken. A spokesperson of the state government on Thursday clarified, “The government had not taken any decision to mandatorily display nameplates…

Ajay Sharma takes over as Director ( Personnel) in SJVNL

  Ajay Kumar Sharma has assumed the charge of Director (Personnel) of Satluz Jal Vidyut Nigam Limited (SJVNL) on Thursday. The Public Enterprises Selection Board  had recommended his name for the post of Director (Personnel) and his appointment has been made by the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet of the Central government. On assuming the charge…

Rahul Gandhi asks BJP to expel Kangana Ranaut from the party, Ranaut withdraws remarks on Three Farm Laws

The Congress on Wednesday stepped up its attack on the BJP over its MP Kangana Ranaut’s remarks calling for bringing back the Three Farm Laws.  The Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi demanded Prime Minister Narendra Modi must clarify whether he is opposed to the remarks? The Congress party demanded the actor-politician…

Rajiv Shakdher takes oath as Chief Justice of Himachal Pradesh High Court

Justice Rajiv Shakdher was sworn in as the Chief Justice of the Himachal Pradesh High Court in a ceremony at Raj Bhawan Shimla on Wednesday.  The oath of office was administered by Governor Shiv Pratap Shukla in the presence of several dignitaries. Chief Secretary Prabodh Saxena conducted the proceedings of the ceremony and read out…

Congress leaders castigate Mandi MP Kangana Ranaut for her controversial remarks against Sonia Gandhi

Himachal Pradesh Congress leaders have come down heavily on Mandi BJP MP Kangana Ranaut for her remarks against former Congress President Sonia Gandhi. While several Congress leaders have termed Kangana Ranaut as ” semi –literate and mentally bankrupt” , Public Works Department (PWD) Minister Vikramaditya Singh has threatened to sue her in the court in…

HP Gramin Bank staff holds a day long dharna against bank management at Mandi

Himachal Pradesh Gramin Bank Karamchari Sangathan (HPGBKS) and Himachal Pradesh Gramin Bank Officers’ Organization (HPGBOO) held a day long dharna in front of HP Gramin Bank Head Office at Mandi on Monday to highlight their demands and protest anti –employees’ policies of the Bank Management. The leaders of bank employees said, “The dharna was held…

Sonam Wangchuk on long march to Delhi, asserts conservation of ecology and culture of the Himalayan region

Sonam Wangchuk, a renowned environmentalist, an innovator and educationist from Ladakh has refuted the claim of the Central government for transforming the life and carrying out large scale development in the region after creation of Ladakh as a Union Territory after abrogation of Article 370 in Jammu and Kashmir. Wangchuk, who is on a long…

HP Cabinet allots Jangi – Thopan and two other Hydro Power Projects to HP Power Corporation

Himachal Pradesh Cabinet has decided to allot 780 MW Jangi –Thopan Hydro Power Project to HP Power Corporation. The allotment of the project earlier given to SJVN Limited was canceled last year for delay in implementing the project by the state government. The Cabinet meeting presided over by Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu held at…

CM reiterates to fight for rights of Himachal Pradesh

Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu said, “  Himachal Pradesh government will make every effort to fight for legitimate rights of Himachal Pradesh and we will not compromise on this issue.” Addressing the audience while presiding over a function organized by the Himachal Pradesh High Court Bar Association in Shimla on Thursday, he also emphasized the…

Legalizing cannabis cultivation in Himachal fraught with several challenges

Dharam Prakash Gupta As the Himachal Pradesh government is seriously pursuing a move to allow controlled cultivation of cannabis, illegally grown in the state for drug users, the move is fraught with a risk and several challenges.  Sukhvinder Sukhu led Congress government facing deep financial crunch is contemplating the issue for quite some time and…

Delhi CM Kejriwal resigns, names Atishi as new CM

Delhi minister Atishi will take over as the new chief minister of Delhi after the resignation of incumbent CM Arvind Kejriwal on Tuesday. The announcement was made by AAP chief Arvind Kejriwal during a meeting with his party’s legislators in New Delhi. Atishi was named the new chief minister of Delhi, after the AAP MLAs…

HP High Court rejects Rajya Sabha MP Harsh Mahajan’s plea against Singhvi’s election petition

The Himachal Pradesh High Court has rejected a plea of Rajya Sabha MP Harsh Mahajan appealing the court to dismiss an election petition filed by senior advocate Abhishek Manu Singhvi, challenging his election to Rajya Sabha on February 27 from Himachal Pradesh. Singhvi, who was Congress candidate for the Rajya Sabha Election from Himachal, had…

Arvind Kejriwal to resign as Delhi CM in next two days

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal has announced to resign from the post of Chief Minister in next two days. Interacting with party workers on Sunday, Kejriwal said , “  Since I have been accused by the Enforcement Directorate and CBI in Delhi Excise Policy and money laundering case, neither I nor Manish Sisodia will occupy…

Protesters marching towards mosque stopped by police in Mandi

Hundreds of people mobilized by a pro –Hindu outfit demanding demolition of ongoing illegal construction in a local mosque in Mandi, adamant on marching towards the mosque, tried to remove barricades and pushed the policemen. The protesters had organized a march despite the minority community volunteering to demolish the illegal construction and Municipal Authorities ordering…

Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal gets bail from the Supreme Court , to walk free from the jail

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal was granted bail by the Supreme Court of India on Friday in the case registered by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) in connection with the now-scrapped Delhi excise policy. The top Aam Aadmi Party leader, Kejriwal will now be able to walk out of jail as he has been…

Governor awards degrees to 333 students in first convocation of SPU Mandi

Himachal Pradesh Governor Shiv Pratap Shukla on Thursday conferred degrees to 333 students in the first convocation of Sardar Patel University (SPU) Mandi, besides awarding Gold Medals to 12 students for their achievements.   Addressing the audience on the occasion, the Governor appreciated the rapid progress made by the university in a short stint. He…

CPM General Secretary Sita Ram Yechury passes away

In very shocking news General Secretary of Communist Party of India Marxist (CPM) Sita Ram Yechury passed away on Thursday in New Delhi. Comrade Yechury, was admitted in All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) New Delhi since August 19 due to severe lung infection, was on a life support system and was battling for…

IIT Mandi researchers develop technique to monitor condition of bridges

 A research team of the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Mandi led by Dr. Subhamoy Sen, Associate Professor, School of Civil and Environmental Engineering, has developed an innovative method to monitor the health of aging bridges using traffic data. This approach zeroes in on the most vulnerable parts of a bridge, significantly enhancing safety and efficiency. Dr….

Protesters demanding demolition of illegal mosque clash with police in Sanjauli (Shimla)

Hundreds of protestors gathered to demand demolition of a controversial building being constructed for a mosque clashed with police in Sanjauli area of Shimla on Wednesday. The protesters mobilized by a few pro –Hindu organizations had marched to Sanjauli bazaar defying prohibitory orders passed by Shimla district administration and imposition of section 163 (earlier section…

Sita Ram Yechury, General Secretary of CPM critical

The condition of General Secretary of Communist Party of India Marxist (CPM) Sita Ram Yechury is critical. According to a release issued by the Central Office of CPM, “Comrade Yechury admitted in the All India Institute of Medical Science, New Delhi for the past few days is being treated for an acute respiratory infection. A…

Speculations rife about wedding proposal of Congress leader Rahul Gandhi

Speculations are rife on social media about the proposed wedding of the Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha,  Congress leader Rahul Gandhi. The news has gone viral  in social media posts  and carried by a  few vernacular newspapers, videos on YOUTube and Instagram, though official confirmation has not come from  the Gandhi family or…

State Govt to prepare a comprehensive plan to combat drug abuse – Education Minister

The Himachal Pradesh government will soon prepare a comprehensive plan to combat the rising menace of drug abuse among youths of the state. Education Minister Rohit Thakur said this while addressing  the convention organized at Shimla by Himachal Gyan Vigyan Center Shimla on the World Literacy Day on Sunday to highlight the issue of rising trend…

HP Govt to approach the Supreme Court for transfer of Shanan power project to the state -CM

Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu said, “The Himachal Pradesh government would approach the Supreme Court to seek direction to Punjab Government to handover 110 MW Shanan Hydro Power project to the state government before October 31.  While  presiding over a meeting of senior officers of the energy department at Shimla on Saturday , the CM…

CM appeals to maintain peace and religious harmony

Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu has assured to maintain peace and harmony in the state in the wake of controversy of construction of a religious place in Sanjauli area of Shimla in Himachal Pradesh. The construction has turned into a major controversy as certain pro Hindu organizations had protested the construction and held demonstrations at…

HPSEBL employees union opposes smart metering proposal

Himachal Pradesh State Electricity Board Limited (HPSEBL) Employees Union held a convention at Mandi on Thursday to express its concern on deteriorating financial condition of the Electricity Board, the decreasing number of employees and the restoration of the old pension system.  The convention was attended by the board employees, pensioners and public representatives. State president…

HP Govt to pay salaries to state Govt employees on 5th and pension on 10th of every month

Himachal Pradesh government will pay salaries to state government employees on 5th of every month and pension on 10th. Replying to the issue being raised by the Leader of Opposition Jai Ram Thakur in the HP Vidhan Sabha on Wednesday, Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu said, “The salaries and pensions of employees and retirees of various…

HP Assembly passes bill to deny pension to MLAs defecting to other parties

The Himachal Pradesh Assembly passed Himachal Pradesh Salary, Allowances and Pension Amendment Act of Members of the Assembly on Wednesday to deny salary, pension and allowances to MLAs defecting to other parties. After passing of the new bill pension of defectors will be stopped with immediate effect and they will also have to return the…

IIT Mandi alumnus Nitesh Kumar wins Badminton Gold Medal in Paris Paralympics Games

An alumnus of Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Mandi Nitish Kumar has made a historic feat by winning a first Paralympics Gold Medal in Men Singles SL3 Badminton event by defeating Daniel Bethell 2-1 in a thrilling final on Monday in ongoing Paris Paralympics Games.  Nitesh Kumar, who did his B.Tech graduate programme in Electrical Engineering…

Nishad Kumar from Himachal wins silver medal in Paralympic games for the second time

Paralympic high jumper Nishad Kumar, hailing from Badaun village of Una district of Himachal Pradesh has brought laurels not only for the state but for the country by winning a silver medal in high jump event in Paris  Paralympics games for the second time in a row. Repeating his silver medal win, after winning a…

Police arrests six intruders for attacking hostel students in Ner Chowk Medical college

The Balh police has arrested six persons for inturding into Lal Bahadur Sashtri Medical College Ner Chowk hostel on Saturday night and attacking the medical college students. The incident occured on Saturday night when six outsiders intruded in the medical college hostel premisses and tried to enter the hostel. A medical college student said, ”…

SJVNL attains status of blue chip Mini Ratna private sector company

The Satluj Jal Vidyut Nigam Limited (SJVN) has attained the status of Mini Ratna public sector company by getting the full flegded blue chip company ranking . This elevation is largely attributed to the company’s robust capital expenditure (capex) plan, which stands at an impressive Rs 25,000 crore. The SJVN, was initially launched as Nathpa…

Senior Shimla journalist Gaurav Bisht passes away

In a very shocking news senior journalist Gaurav Bisht,  Bureau Chief of Hindustan Times Shimla passed away on Wednesday night at his residence in Shimla.  His family sources said, ” Bisht suffered a massive heart attack on wednesday after which he was taken to Indira Gandhi Medical college Hospital Shimla, but Doctors attending him declared…

Four pilgrims on way to Manimahesh die in a road accident

Four pilgrims on way to Manimahesh Yatra lost thier lives on Wednesday morning near Bharmani Mata temple after a vehicle in which they were travelling fell into a deep gorge in Chamba district of Himachal Pradesh.  As per a  police information from Chamba the vehicle met an accident in which four occupants travelling in it…

Himachal Vidhan Sabha amends law to raise marriageable age of girls from 18 to 21 years

Himachal Pradesh Assembly, on the opening day of the monsoon session of Vidhan Sabha on Tuesday, amended the law to raise the marriageable age of girls in Himachal from 18 to 21 years.   Health Minister Dhani Ram Shandi introduced the bill and emphasized the government’s dedication to providing girls better education and career growth…

Vikramaditya Singh criticizes Kangna Ranaut for her statement against farmer’s agitation

Public Works Development (PWD) Minister Vikrmaditya Singh has strongly condemned the statement of Mandi MP Kangna Ranaut regarding farmer’s agitation. He said, “Her allegations of the role of China and the United States behind the farmer’s agitation to destabilize the Haryana government are not only  baseless but also shows her intellectual bankruptcy.” Singh advised Kangna…

Mandi MP Kangna Ranaut’s statement against farmers’s agitation evokes strong reaction

The controversial statement given by Mandi Member of Parliament Kangna Ranaut against the Farmer’s agitation, has invited ire of the Farmers bodies and political parties.  Kangna Ranuat in an interview with a Hindi Daily has compared the situation during the farmer’s agitation for withdrawal of Three Farms Laws with the prevailing turmoil in Bangladesh today…

Road link between Kaza and Manali snapped after a bridge collapses

The Kaza Manali road link was snapped on Sunday morning after a bridge on a local river collapsed at Chichon on National Highwaway no  505 Spiti division of Lahual – Spiti district of Himachal Pradesh. According to an informtion from Kaza a loaded truck passing through the bridge also fell with the bridge in the…

FIR registered against MLA on complaint of a girl

In a startling incident an FIR has been registered against Churah MLA of Chamba district, Hans Raj in Chamba police station on the complaint of a young girl of his Churah Assembly constituency, , for allegedly coercing the girl to have obscene chat with the MLA. The complainant had approached police officials of Chamba district,…

Kisan Sabha to launch agitation to demand fair compensation for land

The Himachal Pradesh unit of Kisan Sabha has decided to launch an agitation in the state demanding fair compensation to farmers and displaced people from their land, whose land is being acquired for different development projects. This decision was taken by the activists of Kisan sabha in a one day convention organized at Mandi on…

Former CM Jai Ram Thakur demands statement from the CM on green tree felling in Banjar Forest

The Leader of Opposition in HP Assembly and former CM Jai Ram Thakur has demanded a statement from Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu on the allegation of alleged illicit tree felling of a large number of green trees under Banjar Forest Division of Kullu district of Himachal Pradesh.  Thakur accused “The state government seems to…

Nationwide strike by Doctors paralyze medical services in Himachal

The nationwide strike to protest brutal murder of a woman doctor at Kolkata’s Kar Medical College evoked a massive response parlaying the health services in the region on Saturday. The call for strike was given by the Indian Medical Association and various state organizations of medical , Aayush  doctors and paramedical staff. Health services throughout…

Congress MLA attacked

The Congress MLA from Kutlehar Assembly constituency of Himachal Pradesh Vivek Sharma was allegedly attacked by two bike riders near Hoshiarpur in Punjab, on Thursday evening, said a police official . Vivek Sharma said, “Unidentified people attacked my car with a rod and broke its rear windshield; the incident took place when I was coming…

Assembly election in Haryana on October 1, three phase election in J&K

Chief Election Commissioner of India  Rajiv Kumar has announced the poll schedule for Assembly Elections in Haryana and Jammu & Kashmir. Sharing this information with media persons at New Delhi on Friday, Chief Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar said, “The Haryana will vote in a single phase on October 1 and counting of votes will take place…

CM Sukhvinder Singh announces to pay arrears of pensioners above 75 years immediately

 Himachal Pradesh celebrated the 78th Independence Day and functions were organized at districts and sub- division levels. The state level function was held at Dehra in Kangra district where Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu unfurled the national flag and took the salute from marching contingents of Police, Home Guards NCC and NSS  cadets.  Paying tributes…

Vikramaditya Singh assures all help to flash flood victims of Terang village

Public Works Development (PWD) Minister Vikrmaditya Singh assured all possible help to flash flood victims at Terang ) Rajban of Mandi district on Wednesday . The minister, accompanied by senior Congress leader Kaul Singh Thakur, visited the families of victims, where nine villagers had lost lives and one person is still missing after flash floods…

Himachal Pradesh Hit Hard: Over 140 Roads Closed, 209 Power Lines Affected after flash floods

An official of HP government said, “Over 140 roads, including two national highways, are closed in Himachal Pradesh following landslides and flash floods triggered by rains in several parts of the state since the past week.” The local meteorological office has issued a ‘yellow’ alert for heavy rain in isolated parts of the state till…

IIT Mandi gets 8th place in NIRF ranking

The Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Mandi has achieved a significant milestone by securing the 8th position in the Innovation category of the National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF) 2024. The rankings were announced today by Dharmendra Pradhan, Education Minister, Government of India, during a ceremony held in New Delhi. In addition to its remarkable performance…

Five die and three missing as Scorpio swept away in Una district

Five members of a family were washed away in a rivulet in Una distrlct of Himachal Pradesh on Sunday,  while three other family members are still missing.  As per an information from Una,”Eight members of a family from Dehlan village were going to attend a wedding in Punjab in a Scorpio vehilcle; when driver of…

Himvarivesh organisation condems decision of HP Cabinet to allow mining along 2 meters of rivers

Himparivesh Paryavaran Sanrarkshan Santha ( HPSS) has condemned the descion of  Himachal Pradesh Cabinet to allow mining along one to two meter beside rivers and khads of the state. President of the organization Lakshmi Singh Thakur after holding a meeting at Nalagarh said,  ” Allowing use  of machinery to carry mining in one to two…

HGCTA resents move to pay 40 percent pay during study leave

Himachal Pradesh Government College Teachers’ Association (HGCTA) has expressed its resentment over the government’s decision to only pay 40% of an employee’s salary during thier  study leave.  State  President of the HGCTA Dr Banita Saklani  said, ” Acording to the existing regulations in the state the employees were entitled to receive their entire salary during…

Jailed former Delhi Deputy CM Manish Sisodia gets bail after 17 months

Former Delhi Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia is going to walk out of jail after 17 months as the Supreme Court granted him bail in the excise policy case on Friday. A two-judge Bench Justices B R Gavai and K V Viswanathan  hearing the bail application of Sisodia  allowed the bail application on the plea…

Former West Bengal CM Buddhadeb Bhattacharya passes away

Former Chief Minister of West Bengal Buddhadeb Bhattacharya passed away on Thursday in Kolkota after prolonged illness. Bhattacharya remained Chief Minister of West Bengal from 2000 to 2011. He represented Jadav Pur Assembly constituency as CPM MLA for 24 years.  Known as intellectual, writer, play artist and a fine gentleman, he  was known as suave…

Himalayan Niti Abhiyan team blames climate change and human activity on mountains for flash floods

Himalaya Niti Abhiyan (HNA) team after spots of flash floods on July 31, at three places in Himachal Pradesh, has cited change in global climatic pattern and receding glaciers in the region due to enhanced human activity in the deep forest on hill hills. HNA convener Guman Singh, who visited the sites along with Rajender…

HP Govt. to launch ‘Him Access’ to provide all citizen- centric services at a single platform

Himachal Pradesh government announced to launch a unified online platform ‘Him Access’ to provide citizen –centric services by consolidating all government social security schemes on a single platform. Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu while presiding over a meeting of Digital Technologies and Governance Department on Tuesday at Shimla said, “Him Access will enable citizens and…

Recovery of two bodies take the death toll to 16 , 40 still missing

Two more bodies were recovered on Tuesday taking the death toll to 16 in flash floods caused by cloudburst at Samej in Shimla district, Bagipul in Kullu district and Terang in Mandi district of Himachal Pradesh, on August 1.   At least 36 people are still untraced who had gone missing after the calamity. DC…

Bangladesh PM Sheikh Hasina resigns, leaves the country

Prime Minister of Bangladesh Sheikh Hasina resigned on Monday, after massive demonstrations against her government in which more than 100 people have been killed in police firing and clashes. As per a PTI report quoting diplomatic sources, “She is on her way to London by taking Indian route in a transport airplane of the Bangladesh…

Eight bodies recovered so far from Terang village in Mandi district

The number of people losing lives in the incident of cloud burst at Terang village under Padhar sub division of Mandi district has gone up to 8 as total 11 persons have lost their lives so far in the state . The cloud burst at three places Samej (Rampur sub division of Shimla district), Terang…

Nine Children making Shivlings die as wall of a temple collapses

Nine children have died and several others injured in an incident of wall collapse in Madhya Pradesh’s Sagar district on Sunday morning. The tragic incident took place near the Hardaul Baba temple in Shahpur; the injured children have been rescued and hospitalized. The children, the local administration has said, were making Shivlings as part of…

Aspirants preparing for Naib Tehsildar selection exam urge CM not to merge it with HAS exam

 A large number of aspirants preparing for competitive exams to select Naib Tehsildars (NT)  in Himachal Pradesh government, have resented the move of the state government to merge NT selection exams with the Himachal Pradesh Administrative Service (HAS) combined selection examination conducted by HP Public Service Commission . In a representation sent to Himachal Pradesh…

IIT Mandi welcomes new students of 2024 batch

Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Mandi welcomed new undergraduate (UG) batch of 2024 during an orientation event on Saturday. Over 500 students from various parts of the country joined the 2024 batch, with more than 25% of them being female,  21 preparatory students, including 13 male and 8 female, also attended the orientation event. Welcoming…

Hopes of rescuing more than forty people alive missing after flash floods receding

Though local administrations have launched  massive operations to search more than forty people missing after flash floods in three districts i.e Shimla, Mandi and Kullu districts of the state, the hope to rescue people alive after three days is receding with each passing day . The rescue teams at Terang village in Mandi district recovered…

Death toll rises to 8, 45 still missing after devastating flash floods in HP

With recovery of three bodies on Friday, the death toll in flash floods caused by cloud bursts at three places in Himachal Pradesh, has risen to eight, while 45 people are still missing DC Mandi Apoorav Devgan said , “ Two bodies of nine years old Aman and eight years old Aryan, were recovered by…

Six bodies recovered , fifty still missing after devastating flash floods in Himachal

The number of people killed in Wednesday’s devastating flash floods in Himachal has reached six after three bodies from Mandi district, two from Shimla district and one from Kullu district have been recovered by rescue teams .   At least fifty people are reported missing from different spots of flash floods, many houses, bridges, roads have…

Three die and 45 missing after devastating monsoon rains in Himachal

Three persons have died and at least 45 people have gone missing in Shimla, Kullu and Mandi districts of Himachal Pradesh during the past twenty four hours as torrential rains caused flash floods at several places on Wednesday night in the area. CM Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu has convened an emergency meeting at HP Secretariat Shimla…

Shimla to have 13.79 kms ropeway – Deputy CM

Himachal Pradesh government has mooted a proposal to construct a 13.79-kilometer long ropeway system in Shimla. Deputy Chief Minister Mukesh Agnihotri said , “ This would be perhaps the world’s second longest and the first in India and Asia , which would  connect 15 stations to be constructed with an  estimated cost of  Rs 1734.40 crore,…

ED raids 19 private hospitals -including two promoted by Congress leaders in Himachal

The Enforcement Directorate from New Delhi raided premises of several private hospitals in the state on Wednesday. “The premises of Fortis Hospital in Kangra (promoted by Bali’s company Himachal Healthcare Pvt. Ltd.), presently managed by Nagrota Congress MLA Raghubir Singh Bali,   Balaji Hospital in Kangra – whose  promoter is another Congress leader Rajesh Sharma, were…

Flash Floods near Manikaran damage buildings

A heavy downpour in Tosh Nallah near Manikaran in Kullu district led to flash floods in the area resulting in damage to a few buildings. As per information a water in Tosh Nallah started rising after a heavy downpour and a café and two shops were filled with slush in the wee hours and the…

Heavy to very heavy rain predicted in the state from July 29 to August 3

The Meteorological Center Shimla has predicted a wet spell for many parts of the state during the next four five days, which will continue till August 3. As per weather forecast issued by the Center on Monday, “Heavy to very heavy rainfall is predicted in many parts of the state during this period and light…

One killed and three injured as boulder hits Bolero Jeep near Parwanoo

One person was killed and three others injured after a Bolero Camper was hit by a huge boulder near Datyar on Parwanoo – Solan National Highway at about 3 am on Monday morning. The Bolero Camper no PB 08CP-9686, carrying bundles of a Hindi newspaper published from Jalandhar was on its way to Shimla from Jalandhar,…

State govt’s proposal to hike minimum bus fare to Rs 12 invites criticism

Himachal Pradesh government’ s decisions to ‘burden general public’ by raising cost of certain public utility services and withdrawing a few facilities given by the state government to certain sections of the society, has invited ire of opposition parties . The state unit of CPM has strongly condemned the proposal of the state government to…

HP CM Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu boycotts Niti Aayog meeting along with opposition CMs

Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu boycotted the Niti Aayog meeting held at New Delhi on Saturday along with INDIA bloc opposition party CMs – Tamilnadu CM MK Stalin (Tamilnadu), Kerala CM Pinarayi Vijayan, Punjab CM Bhagwant Mann, Karnataka CM Siddarmaiah, Telanagna CM Reventh Reddy and Jharkhand CM Hemant Soren. “As many as 10…

Floral tributes paid to martyrs on 25th Kargil Vijay Diwas

Floral tributes were paid to martyrs of Kargil War to observe 25th anniversary of Kargil Vijay Diwas at Shaheed Smarak Mandi on Friday. In a programme organized in Mandi by the Mandi District Administration and Sainik Welfare Department, a large number of family members of the martyrs paid their emotional tributes to brave soldiers, who…

ITBP Inspector washed away in Kaza

An Inspector of Indo- Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) lost his life while trying to cross a river in Kaza sub-division of Lahaul- Spiti district of Himachal Pradesh on Thursday evening. A source from Kaza said , “ Fifty four personal of ITBP,  including an Inspector  were trying to cross Kargyupa Nalah as routine exercise on…

Eight passengers injured as a private bus falls in River Beas near Manali

Eight passengers traveling in a private bus were injured on Friday morning when the driver of the bus lost control and it fell into Beas River near Banu Bridge, four kilometers away from Manali. According to information, “The Manali- Pathankot private bus of Prem Bus Service was on way to Pathankot fell into the river…

HP Cabinet decides to close down 89 schools and transfer teaching staff one in a year

Himachal Pradesh Cabinet has decided to close down 89 Government Primary Schools and 10 Middle Schools with zero enrollments and merge Government Primary and Middle Schools within a 2-3 kilometer radius with five or fewer students. , The State Cabinet in its meeting held here today under the Chairmanship of Chief Minister  Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu…

HP Vidhan Sabha session from August 27 to September 9

Himachal Pradesh Cabinet has decided to convene a monsoon session of Himachal Pradesh Vidhan Sabha from August 27 to September 9. 

IMD issues warning of flash floods in 3 districts of HP

The Indian Metrological Center Chandigarh has issued a warning of flash floods till July 28 in three districts of Himachal Pradesh. The IMD office said, “The flash floods can occur in Shimla, Sirmaur and Kangra districts of Himachal Pradesh during the next twenty four hours; surface run-off or inundation may occur in some fully saturated…

Workshop on climate change and forest management organized

Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) and USAID, conducted a one-day workshop on Ecosystem Approach and Technological Innovations  at the ICFRE-Himalayan Forest Research Institute, Shimla) on Wednesday . A press release of the institute said, “Dr. Vaneet Jishtu, Senior Scientist from HFRI, coordinated the Forest Management Workshop aimed to encourage students from colleges and research scholars…

HGCTA welcomes state Govt’s decision to give award to college teachers

Himachal Pradesh Government College Teachers Association ( HPGCTA) has welcomed the decision of the state government to give Teachers’ Award to the teachers of Himachal Pradesh colleges also .The President of the HGCTA Dr Banita Saklani said , “ This is an important decision since no previous government thought of giving the teacher’s award to…

Major breakthrough in Dhali – Kathlighat four lane construction

In a major breakthrough the two ends of a 700 meters long tunnel, being constructed at Shungal near Shoghi on Dhali – Kathalighat four-lane project, were connected on Tuesday after a breakthrough ceremony. This is a significant step in completion of the four lanes, being widened from Parwanoo to Kaithlighat to build a bypass for…

Three newly elected MLAs administered oath by Vidhan Sabha Speaker

Three newly elected MLAs to HP Vidhan Sabha were administered oath by Vidhan Sabha Speaker Kuldeep Singh Pathania on Monday. Three MLAs – Kamlesh Thakur, wife of Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, elected from Dehra Assembly constituency, Ashish Sharma elected from Hamirpur and Hardeep Singh Bawa elected from Nalagarh Assembly constituency, were administered oath at…

Orange alert of heavy rains for several parts of Himachal on July 22 and 23

 As a relief from intense heat in several parts of Himachal Pradesh, the meteorological department has issued an “orange alert” of heavy to very heavy rains on July 22 and 23 in many parts of the state.   After the onset of monsoon in the state it has been playing truant as monsoon rains have…

Leader of opposition demands declaration of results

Leader of Opposition in Himachal Vidhan Sabha Jairam Thakur has strongly criticized the state government for not declaring long pending results of different categories of jobs. Thakur said, “Though the state government is making big claims about providing jobs to unemployed youths in the state but has failed to declare the results of screening tests…

Ivy Hospital introduces new technique in Cardiac Surgery

The Doctors of Center for Excellence in Cardiac Sciences (Ivy hospital), Mohali, have claimed to provide the latest techniques in cardiac surgery in the region. Talking to media persons at Mandi, Additional Director of the center   Dr Rakesh Sharma and consultant Dr Ishant Singla said , “ The Ivy hospital has become Center for Excellence…

CITU holds statewide demonstrations against anti labour policies

On the call of CITU State Committee Himachal Pradesh, huge demonstrations were held at the district and block headquarters against the anti-labour, farmer, employee and public policies of the Modi government at the centre and highlight the demands of the workers. CITU State President Vijendra Mehra and General Secretary Prem Gautam said, “Thousands of workers…

Police arrests kingpin of Crypto Currency Scam in Himachal

The Kingpin responsible for nearly Rs 2500 crore Crypto Currency scam in Himachal Pradesh, which occurred in 2022, was arrested by the Himachal Pradesh Police on Thursday from Kolkata. DIG Northern Range, Abhishek  Dullar said, “  Milan Garg  (35), a resident of Meerut in Uttar Pradesh, was apprehended on Wednesday night from the Netaji Subhas Chandra…

Table Tennis Championship at Him Academy Public School Hamirpur on July 25

Hamirpur District Table Tennis (TT)  Association has decided to hold the state level ranking TT championship at Him Academy Public School Vikas Nagar  at Hamirpur on July 25. President of  the Association Panakaj Lakhanpal and General Secretary  Vishal Arvind Dadhwalia  said, “ The players in different category can participate in the championship which includes under…

HP CM urges Home Minister to release post disaster financial assistance of Rs 9042 crore

Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu has urged Home Minister Amit Shah to release financial assistance of Rs 9042 crore under post-disaster assessment to Himachal Pradesh. The CM, who met the Home Minister at New Delhi on Wednesday said, “The Home Minister was apprised about the intensity of natural disasters in the state and requested him…

Himachal CM meets PM Narendra Modi to seek financial aid

Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu called on Prime Minister Narendra Modi at New Delhi on Tuesday and urged him to support Himachal Pradesh for becoming a complete green state and briefed the PM about the state government’s initiatives taken to make the state green. The CM requested him to suitably compensate the state to come…

Nearly 400 Govt. schools without a teacher, 3100 with a single teacher in Himachal Pradesh

Though the successive state governments in Himachal Pradesh have been making claims to improve quality education in government schools and spending huge amounts on developing human resources, strangely nearly 400 schools are running without even a single teacher. This figure has been revealed by Education Minister of the state Rohit Thakur, who said, “Nearly 400…

Congress consolidates its position in HP Vidhan Sabha by winning 2 out of 3 by-polls

The gamble of three Independent MLAs – Hoshiyar Singh (Dehra) KL Thakur ( Nalagarh)  and Ashish Sharma (Hamirpur)  to re-contest the Assembly by-polls on BJP tickets after resigning from the Assembly, proved costly as Hoshiyar Singh and KL Thakur lost the election and only Ashish Sharma was able to retain Hamirpur Assembly seat. CM Sukhvinder…

CM’s wife Kamlesh Thakur leading by over 6000 votes in Dehra by-polls

The Congress candidates are leading in two Assembly constituencies of the state while the BJP candidate is leading in one Assembly constituency of the state in the by-elections. The counting in all three Constituencies started on Saturday morning and after several rounds of counting, Kamlesh Thakur (Congress), wife of CM Sukhu, has established a convincing…

Former CM Jai Ram Thakur condemns discontinuation of free electricity scheme

Former Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur  has strongly condemned the decision of the state government to discontinue the free electricity scheme.   He said, “ The  Congress is known for such kind of autocratic decisions and the Sukhu government has now snatched away the free electricity being provided to the people of the state; the…

HP Cabinet withdraws free electricity scheme for VIPs and tax payers

Himachal Pradesh Cabinet has decided to rationalize the free electric scheme in the state in a Cabinet meeting held at Shimla on Friday, chaired by CM Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu. A spokesman of the state government said, “The Cabinet gave its approval to rationalize the provisions for Zero Electricity Bill for the domestic consumers by restricting…

Justice Rajiv Shakdher appointed Chief Justice of Himachal High Court

Justice Rajiv Shakdher has been appointed new Chief Justice (CJ) of Himachal Pradesh High Court on the recommendations by the collegiums headed by Chief Justice of Supreme Court of India, Justice DY Chandrachud. Justice Shakdher is currently a judge in the Delhi High Court and replaces Justice MS Ramachnadra Rao, Chief Justice of Himachal Pradesh…

SFI demands inquiry commission in recruitment of teaching faculty by HPU Shimla

The Student Federation of India (SFI) has demanded the constitution of an inquiry commission monitored by Himachal Pradesh High Court in alleged “recruitment scam”in Himachal Pradesh University Shimla, while recruiting teaching faculty from 2019 to 2023.  Talking to media persons at Shimla on Thursday, state president of SFI Anil Thakur and Secretary Ditin Denta accused, “…

Highest 78 percent polling registered in Nalagarh Assembly constituency

Nalagarh AC registered the highest nearly 78 percent voter turnout in the Assembly by-elections for three seats of Himachal Pradesh, followed by 67.7 percent in Hamirpur and approximately 65.42 percent voting in Dehra AC. Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) Maneesh Garg has thanked the voters of Dehra, Hamirpur and Nalagarh Assemblies Constituencies (AC) for their participation…

Two reporters of social media channels arrested by Vigilance and Anti- corruption Bureau Dharamshala

Two reporters of social media channels were arrested by Vigilance & Anti Corruption Bureau (VACB), Dharamshala on the charges of extorting money from a private school in Dharamshala on Tuesday .  SP Vigilance and Anti Corruption Bureau Dharamshala said, “A complaint was received in the Bureau office on Tuesday from the chairman of a private…

Stakes high for CM Sukhu in Assembly by-polls in Himachal

While all arrangements have been made for polling for the by-elections in three Assembly constituencies i.e. Hamirpur, Nalagarh and Dehra in Himachal Pradesh on July 10, the results on July 13 would be watched keenly as Congress has fielded CM Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu’s wife from Dehra Assembly constituency.     The by-elections were held following the…

Shimla – Kinnaur national highway blocked due to landslide

The Shimla-Kinnaur National Highway was blocked near Naptha after rain in the area  led to a landslide on Monday, snapping tribal district Kinnaur’s link with Shimla, the capital of Himachal Pradesh. Rain in many areas of Himachal Pradesh resulted in landslides blocking vehicular traffic on seventy roads.   According to the state’s Emergency Operation Centre,…

Shimla based senior scribe Anand Bodh passes away

Shimla based senior journalist Anand Bodh passed away on Sunday morning at Indira Gandhi Medical College (IGMC) Hospital Shimla. Bodh (51) was working as Assistant Editor of Times of India at Shimla for quite some time. As per a family source, “Bodh was taken to IGMC on feeling uncomfortable at night about at 1 pm…

HPSEBL Employees Union strongly opposes smart meter scheme

The proposal of Himachal Pradesh Electricity Board Limited (HPSEBL) to replace nearly 26 lakh conventional electricity meters with smart meters under Public Private Participation Mode, has invited strong reaction from HPSEBL Employees.    In a letter written to Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, the General Secretary of HPSEBL Employees Union Hira Lal Verma has urged…

IIT Mandi launches a new programme in music and musopathy

The Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Mandi has launched a new programme in Music and Musopathy from the current academic session-   M.S. (by research) and PhD programs in Music and Musopathy. The programmes based on deep connection between music, health and technology would try to create vibes for individual and collective well being is being…

SFI holds protests against irregularities in NTA conducted exams

The activists of Student Federation of India (SFI) held protest demonstrations at several places in the state against irregularities reported in NTA exams . State President Anil Thakur and Secretary Dinit Denta said, “The protests  were organized against the Modi government for large scale irregularities and alleged corruption in the conduct of competitive exams by…

Incessant rain disrupts normal life , 80 roads closed in Himachal

The beginning of monsoon in Himachal Pradesh has disrupted normal life at several places of Himachal Pradesh as incessant rain during the past 24 hours have left at least 80 roads closed for vehicular traffic, a large number of water supply schemes and electricity transformers have also been damaged . “As many as 80  roads…

At least 107 devotees die in stampede in a ‘satsang’ near Hathras in UP

At least 107 people (mostly women) died on Tuesday in a stampede in a ‘Satsang’ (religious congregation) near Hathras in Uttar Pradesh. A PTI report said, “ The accident occurred at a ‘Satsang’ event at Pulrai village where people had gathered in large numbers in a ‘ satsang’ organized on Tuesday,  few people in the…

Himachal International Film Festival concludes

Yashpal Sharma won the Best Director’s Award for a Haryanvi feature film -Dada Lakhmi in the first Himachal International Film Festival, which concluded on Sunday. Additional Chief Secretary to HP government Onkar Sharma, chief guest in the concluding day function, gave away the prizes in the presence of film actors Akhilendra Mishra, Sanjay Mishra, Yashpal…

Gen Upendra Dwivedi takes over as Chief of the Indian Army

Gen Upendra Dwivedi, on Sunday assumed charge as the 30tth Chief of the Army Staff and succeeds Gen Manoj Pande who superannuated after more than four decades of service. “Gen Dwivedi brings with him, a wealth of experience and a proven track record, of effectively planning and executing for the unexpected, besides operational experience along…

Rumours rife after income tax raids in Hamirpur

Income tax raids on a few business establishments and residential buildings of certain leading businessmen of Hamirpur town on Saturday morning created panic . A source privy to the raids said, “The income tax teams had reached early morning at about 5 am outside a few business establishments in Hamirpur bazaar and started the raids…

Monsoon rains hit six districts of Himachal , heavy downpour in Shimla

As predicted by Mausam Vigyan Kendra Shimla, the southwest monsoon has hit six districts of Himachal Pradesh.  The weather department said , “ The  monsoon has hit parts of districts of Una, Shimla, Mandi, Kangra, Chamba and Hamirpur districts and other districts of the state are likely to get monsoon rains in the next 72…

First Himachal International Film festival begins at Mandi

First Himachal International Film Festival was inaugurated at Sanskriti Sadan Mandi on Thursday, which would continue till June 30 . Additional Deputy Commissioner Mandi Rohit Rathore, acclaimed actor Akhilendra Mishra, who played the role of ‘Kroor Singh” in Chnaderkanta TV serial, film actress Sapna who left her mark in films like Chillar Party, Bareilly Barfi,…

Orange alert of heavy rainfall from June 29 to 30 for several districts of Himachal

Mausam Vigyan Kendra Shiimla has issued an orange alert of spells of heavy rainfall from June 29 to 30 for Shimla, Hamirpur, Bilaspur, Hamirpur, Chamba, Kangra, Mandi, Solan and Sirmaur districts. As per weather forecast issued by the Kendra,” The Southwest monsoon would favorably move to the state during the next 3 -4 days, the…

Show cause notices to nearly 250 TGTs for poor results in Board Exam

Himachal Pradesh Education Department will issue show cause notices to nearly 250 Trained Graduate Teachers (TGTs), posted in different schools of the state where class X results of hundreds of students was very poor in this year’s HP Board School Education exam. The Directorate of Elementary Education after collecting information from such schools and action…

Chairman of 16th Finance Commission do not commit on special grant to Himachal

The Chairman of 16th Finance Commission visiting the state , Arvind Panagariya has not committed on allocation for special funds for disaster relief or for a special package. He said, “It would be premature and inappropriate to comment on the parameters that would be adopted for recommending an allocation of grants as Himachal’s needs cannot be viewed…

Spillway gates of Larji dam to be opened from June 30 to July 1

Larji Hydro Power Project authorities have issued an alert from June 30th of July 1st for opening all spillway gates of the Larji Dam for annual drain out of silt from the dam from 6 am to 6 pm. Additional District Magistrate Mandi Madan Kumar said, “People living near the dam area and tourists visiting the area…

Vehicles damaged due to flash floods near Gambhar Bridge

Flash floods in the Gamabhar area of Solan district on Monday wreaked havoc as several vehicles and houses were damaged. As per information the flash flood affected a portion near Gambhar Bridge and vehicular traffic was affected as slush and uprooted trees inundated Kunihar – Subathu road. A house also collapsed near the bridge ….

JP Nadda named Leader of Rajya Sabha

BJP president and Union Health Minister J P Nadda was named as Leader of the House in Rajya Sabha on Monday. Nadda, who hails from Bilaspur district of Himachal Pradesh, is perhaps the first leader holding three major posts, at the same time, i.e.  BJP president, Leader of Rajya sabha and a  Union Minister . …

Mandi Film Festival will provide an opportunity to watch nearly 50 award winning films – Pawan Sharma

Noted Bollywood Film Director Pawan Sharma, hailing from Mandi said “The main objective of organizing Film Festival in Mandi is to show national award winning films to people which are not generally being screened in cinemas and on OTT platform.” Sharma, who has reached Mandi along with his team to make arrangements for the solo…

Central Govt. enforces Prevention of Unfair Means Act in Public examination

The  Central government has enforced the Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Act, 2024 on Friday , which aims to prevent unfair means in public examinations and common entrance tests held across the country. The act has been basically passed to stop malpractices, use of unfair means and irregularities in competitive examinations and entails provisions for a…

Govt. School Head Master arrested for sexually harassing four minor girl students

The Joginder Nagar Police (in Mandi district of Himachal Pradesh) has arrested a government school Head Master under the POCSO Act for allegedly sexually harassing four minor girl students of the school. This is the second case within a week when a shopkeeper in Chopal area was arrested for sexually harassing 11 minor school girls….

Four die and three injured in a bus accident in Jubbal area

Four passengers traveling in a  Himachal Road Transport Corporation (HRTC) bus,  have died and three other injured in a bus accident near Giltahdi in Jubbal sub division of Shimla district on Friday morning, when the bus rolled down the hill and fell into a deep gorge . Superintendent of Police Shimla Sanjeev Gandhi said, “The…

Accused booked for attack on former Bilaspur MLA, shot in District Court premises

In a shocking incident, an accused booked for attack on former Bilaspur Congress MLA Bambar Thakur, was shot at in the  District & Session Court premises by assailants on Thursday.  Injured Saurabh Patial was rushed to All India Institute of Medical Sciences after the incident and Bilaspur police have arrested one of the assailants identified…

Finding purpose in the needle work to combat emptiness

by Dharam Prakash Gupta The solo exhibition of colourful needle work by an amateur artist Sulakshna (Arya) – popularly known by her nickname Kaka, organized at Gaiety Theater Shimla from June 15 to 17, was not only a display of excellent handmade pieces of art work but also an inspiration for many to find a…

Communal tension grips Nahan

Communal tension gripped Nahan town of Himachal Pradesh on Wednesday as members of a Hindu organization protested against certain people of minority community.   A local person said, “ “A group of protesters allegedly vandalized a shop, marched towards the Deputy Commissioners’ office and held a demonstration to protest a media post depicting an animal…

HP Cabinet gives one year age relaxation for Police constable’s recruitment

Himachal Pradesh Cabinet has given its consent to give one time relaxation for one year in upper age limit to the candidates appearing for the recruitment of 1226 posts of Constable in the Police department.   Now, candidates from the General category between the age of 18 to 26 years, SC/ST, OBC, Gorkhas, distinguished sportspersons, between…

Congress fields CM’s wife Kamlesh Thakur for Dehra Assembly by-election

In a surprise move the Congress High Command has decided to field Himachal Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu’s wife Kamelsh Thakur to contest the Dehra by-election. A press release issued by Congress General Secretary Venugopal on Tuesday notified the name of Kamlesh Thakur to contest the ensuing by-election from Dehra constituency on Congress ticket. Kamlesh…

Entrance to medical colleges should be reformed- Academicians

While allegations of buying  questions papers of National Eligibility – cum-Entrance Test (NEET – 2024) are under the scrutiny of the Supreme Court, ademand to cancel the test and reform the present selection system byintroducing aptitude tests like criteria for admission to medical colleges inIndia is gaining momentum. Medical profession has become one of the…

BJP to give party tickets to three former Independent MLAs for Vidhan Sabha by-elections

The BJP parliamentary board has decided to field three former Independent MLAs, as BJP candidates for the ensuing by-elections for three seats of Himachal Pradesh Vidhan Sabha, to be held on July 10. The names of  Hoshiyar Singh from Dehra, Ashish Sharma from Hamirpur and KL Thakur from Nalagarh, have been cleared by the party…

Alert of severe heat wave in several districts of Himachal for the next 72 hours

The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) center Shimla has issued a severe heat wave warning for several districts of Himachal Pradesh during the next 72 hours. As per weather forecast issued for the state on Thursday, the center said, “Several districts i.e. Sirmaur, Bilaspur, Chamba, Hamirpur, Kangra, Kullu, Mandi, Shimla, Solan and Una are likely to…

IIT Mandi researchers find cancer causing pollutants in Baddi- Barotiwala ground water

A research team of the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Mandi has found cancer-causing pollutants in ground water of Baddi –Barotiwala (BB) industrial area of Himachal. A study undertaken by Dr. Deepak Swami, Associate Professor in School of Civil & Environmental Engineering of IIT Mandi and his research associate Utsav Rajput, in collaboration with Dr. Nitin…

Disqualification of Mayor and former Mayor in Solan Municipal Corporation reduces Congress to minority

Disqualification of the Mayor and a former Mayor in Congress led Solan Municipal Corporation, has reduced the Congress group to a minority.   Principal Secretary Urban Development Devesh Kumar, in a notification issued on June 10, had disqualified the Mayor Usha Sharma and former Mayor Punam Grover from their membership of Solan Municipal Corporation. Both of…

Six newly elected MLAs administered Oath by Speaker

The six newly elected legislators in the by-elections for Himachal Pradesh Vidhan Sabha were administered oath by Speaker Kuldeep Singh Pathania on Wednesday, in an oath taking ceremony at Vidhan Sabha Library Hall, Shimla. . The MLAs administered oath are Anuradha Rana ( Lahaul –Spiti) , Rakesh Kalia ( (Gagret ), Ranjit Rana ( Sujanpur)and…

Four MBBS students of Tanda Medical College expelled for ragging juniors

Four senior MBBS students of Rajendra Prasad Medical College Tanda (Kangra) have been expelled from the college for allegedly ragging juniors in two separate incidents, by the college administration on Tuesday. In one case of ragging two students of the 2019 batch have been expelled from the college and hostel for one year and also…

Vikramditya Singh reaffirms his commitment to work for his vision of development

PWD Minister and Congress candidate for Mandi Parliamentary election, Vikrmaditya Singh has reaffirmed to work for achieving the issues raised by him as part of his vision for Mandi parliament constituency, during the election campaign. Talking to media persons here on Monday, he said, “Accepting the voters’ mandate humbly, I would make every effort to…

ECI announces by-elections for 3 HP Assembly constituencies on July 10

The Election Commission of India (ECI) has announced to hold by-elections for three Assembly constituencies of Himachal Pradesh on July 10, along with ten Assembly constituencies across seven states of India. Making this announcement on Monday, an ECI release said, “The by-polls are held to fill up vacancies created due to death or resignations of…

Prime Minister Narendra Modi takes oath for the third consecutive term

Prime Minister Narendra Modi took oath as Indian Prime Minister for the third consecutive term at the Rashtrapati Bhawan, New Delhi on Sunday . President Droupadi Murmu administered the oath of office to PM Modi and his Cabinet colleagues, senior BJP leaders Rajnath Singh, Nitin Gadkari and Amit Shah, among others . BJP president JP…

Fun in a waterfall proves fatal for a student of National Law University Delhi

The fun by the students of National Law University, Delhi, in a waterfall near Solan turned into a tragedy as a 19 year- old- student died after being hit by a shooting stone, near Solan on Friday . A spokesman of the Solan Police said, “The deceased Akshat Dev , a resident of Gandhinagar of…

Mandi BJP MP Kangana Ranaut slapped by CISF constable at Chandigarh Airport

Newly elected BJP Member of Parliament from Mandi, film actress Kangana Ranaut was allegedly slapped by a CISF constable at Chandigarh International Airport on Thursday, during a security check. Ranaut was to take a flight from Chandigarh to New Delhi , when a constable Kulvinder Kaur, deployed on security check duty, allegedly  hit her after…

BJP sweeps parliament election in HP , Congress wins majority Assembly By-elections

The results for election in four parliamentary constituencies and by –polls in six Assembly constituencies have been a mixed bag for both Congress and BJP in Himachal Pradesh, while BJP has swept the parliament polls, Congress have won majority seats in HP Vidhan Sabha by-elections. The BJP has swept the parliament election in the state as…

HP Vidhan Sabha speaker accepts resignations of Independent MLAs

Himachal Pradesh Vidhan Sabha Speaker Kuldeep Singh Pathania on Monday accepted the resignations of three Independent MLAs – Hoshiyar Singh (Dehra), Ashish Sharma (Hamirpur) and K L Thakur (Nalagarh) from the membership of HP Vidhan Sabha. The MLAs, who were supporting the Congress government headed by Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu before Rajya Sabha election in the…

72.32 percent polling recorded in Mandi parliament election

Nearly 68 percent polling was recorded in the parliamentary elections for four seats of Himachal Pradesh, while nearly 69 percent polling was recorded in the by-elections for the six Assembly constituencies of the state.   Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) of the state Maneesh Garg said, “According to the information received so far in the state…

All set for polling in parliament election on June 1 in Mandi

All preparations have been completed for the voting for the parliament election in Mandi district to be held on June 1 (Saturday). Returning officer Apporv Devgan said , “ The polling will be held from 7 am to 6 pm, the polling parties have already reached 1217 polling booths set for the voting in Mandi…

Three youths from Punjab drown in Yamuna at Paonta Sahib

In a tragic incident three youths from Punjab were drowned in river Yamuna at Paonta Sahib on Friday. An eyewitness to the incident said, “The three youth from Paonta Sahib came to pay obeisance in Paonta Sahib Gurudwara on Friday morning and one of them went to bathe in the river Yamuna but started drowning…

Stakes high for Congress and BJP in Himachal

The campaigning for election to four parliamentary constituencies and by-elections in six Assemblies constituencies of Himachal Pradesh came to an end on Thursday evening. The polling in the state would be held on June 1, (Saturday), in the seventh and the last phase of Lok Sabha General Election. On the last day of campaigning the…

Priyanka Gandhi criticizes PM Modi for not helping the state during natural calamity

Congress General Secretary Priyanka Gandhi questioned the Prime Minister Narendra Modi for seeking vote for BJP candidates in the election without coming to help people of the state in the hour of need. Addressing a public meeting at Sunder Nagar on Wednesday in favour of Congress candidate Vikrmaditya Singh, she said, “With what face is…

Former CM Jai Ram Thakur accuses Congress Govt. for spreading lies instead of fulfilling guarantees

Former Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur has criticized the Congress led state government for not fulfilling the party’s guarantees given to people during the last Vidhan Sabha election. Talking to media persons on Wednesday at Mandi, Thakur said, “The Congress party leaders are giving new guarantees to people but during the 15months rule the state…

Bhumi Adhigrahan Samiti highlights their demands

Four Lane Affected people have accused the Modi government for not fulfilling their demands. Addressing a press conference at Mandi  Tuesday the leaders of Bhumi Adhigrahan Samiti BR Kanudal and Joginder Walia said , “ The Central Government and the previous Jairam Government should had betrayed the affected farmers of Himachal by reducing the circle…

Sanyukta Kisan Manch gives call to defeat Modi government for its ‘anti-farmers policy’

Sanyukat Kisan Manch (SKM) leaders have appealed to farmers and orchardists of the state to defeat the NDA led Modi government in the ensuing Lok Sabha election and vote for INDIA Alliance candidates. SKM leaders , its state convener Harish Chauhan, co –convener Sanjay Chauhan , convener of Plum Grower’s Association Deepak Singha and  Gopal…

Ten school students injured in a bus accident near Joginder Nagar

At least ten students have been injured in a road accident near Joginder Nagar on Tuesday morning after a bus carrying students of a private school had a collision with a trailer truck on Mandi – Joginder Nagar road. SHO Joginder Nagar Ashwani Kumar said,  “ Ten students of a private school have received minor…

SJVNL GM Ajay Sharma elevated as Director (Personnel)

The Public Enterprises Selection Board (PESB) has recommended the name of Ajay Kumar Sharma, presently General Manager, Corporate HR in Satluj Jal Vidyut Nigam (SJVNL), for the post of Director (Personnel) SJVN. A company release said, “Sharma was selected following a rigorous interview process held on May 24, 2024 out of eleven applicants; he has…

Priyanka Gandhi accuses the Modi government for trying to topple HP govt.

Congress General Secretary Priyanka Gandhi accused the Modi government and BJP for allegedly “trying to topple the democratically elected Congress government in Himachal Pradesh” . Addressing a public meeting in favour of Congress candidate Anand Sharma contesting from Kangra parliament seat, at Chaugan ground in Chamba on Monday, the Congress leader said , “ The…

Rahul Gandhi appeals people to defend the constitution

Former Congress President Rahul Gandhi appealed to people to defend the constitution of India throught thier votes in the election. Adressing two public meetings at Nahan and Una in Himachal Pradesh on Sunday, Rahul Gandhi said, “Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his party BJP is seeking 400 seats in LoK Sabha to change the constitution…

NDA govt. would take back POK – Amit Shah

Union Home Minister Amit Shah, while addressing a rally at Dharamshala said, “After formation of NDA government at the Center under PM Narendra Modi wse will take back Pakistan occupied Kashmir (POK).” He said, “Congress party is a weak link in tackling Pakistan but our government has always taken a firm stand against Pakistan.” He…

Democracy and the Constitution under threat – Kharge

All India Congress Committee (AICC) President Mallikarjun Kharge addressing a press conference at Shimla on Saturday said, “INDIA Alliance is going to form the government at the Center on June 4, after the election as people are not happy with the Modi government engaged in misusing the Central agencies to crush the opposition.” Charge said,…

PM Narendra Modi accuses state govt for misappropriation of natural calamity funds

Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed two election rallies at Nahan and Mandi on Friday to garner votes in favour of BJP candidates for parliament and HP Vidhan Sabha by- elections in six constituencies. Addressing an impressive public matting at Paddal ground, accusing Himachal Pradesh government for allegedly misappropriating the funds given by the Central government…

Supreme Court stays refund of water cess collected by HP government

The Supreme Court has stayed an order issued by HP High Court to refund the water cess collected on hydro power generation from the power generation companies by HP government. The Himachal Pradesh High Court had passed an order a few months back to quash the levying of water cess on hydro power generation and…

Noted lawyer Prashant Bhushan stresses need for probe in electoral bonds

Noted Supreme Court lawyer and senior civil rights activist Prashant Bhushan talked about alleged negative aspects of Electoral Bonds stressing the need to save our Democracy and the constitution of India. Addressing a gathering at Mandi on Wednesday, he said ,  “The electoral bonds were declared unconstitutional in February 2024, by the apex court and…

Vikramaditya Singh refutes BJP allegation of Congress hand in protest at Kaza

Congress candidate from Mandi parliamentary constituency Vikrmaditya Singh has refuted the allegation of BJP candidate Kangana Ranaut for allegedly staging a protest against her at Kaza on Tuesday. In reply to a question in a press conference at Mandi he said, “She had made a remark against spiritual Guru of Tibetans the Dalaia Lama some…

INDIA Alliance partners to provide impetus to election campaign – Deputy CM Mukesh Agnihotri

With the INDIA Alliance partners launching joint campaigns in the state for ensuing parliament and Assembly by-elections, Deputy Chief Minister Mukesh Agnihotri held a meeting at Una on Tuesday to give pace to election campaigns jointly by INDIA Alliance partners in the coming days. After holding a meeting of Congress,  CPM and APP leaders at…

Eyebrows raised on competence of the project engineer

After termination of senior project engineer of four laning of  National Highway no 5- Kaithlighat to Dhalli, by the management of the LN –Malviya Infra Projects Ltd, for his alleged failure in implementing the project , has raised question mark on the quality of the work undertaken in widening Kiratpur- Ner Chowk Highway project ….

School timings changed due to rise in temperature

The Mandi district administration has changed the timing of all schools with immediate effect in the district in view of extremely hot weather in many areas of the district. D C Mandi Apoorv Devgan said, “The meteorological department in its weather forecast has issued an alert of rise in day temperature for the next few…

Kangana Ranaut shown black flags at Kaza

BJP candidate from Mandi parliament constituency Kangana Ranaut was shown black flags by followers of spiritual guru the Dalai Lama during her election campaign at Kaza on Monday. A source from Kaza said, “Hundreds of agitated followers of the Lama, including women protesters lined up at Kaza showed black flags and raised ‘Go Back’ slogans….

DC asks candidates to get certification from MCMC to release ads during election

Deputy Commissioner Mandi and Chairman of Media Certification and Monitoring Committee (MCMC), Apoorva Devgan has asked political parties and contestants for the Mandi parliament constituency to get pre- certification of all advertisements released by them in the election. He said, “As per the instructions of the Election Commission of India -authentication is mandatory for electronic…

PM Narendra Modi to address two rallies in Himachal on May 24

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will address two election rallies in Himachal Pradesh on May 24.   Former Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur said , “ The PM is coming to Himachal Pradesh On May 24 ; he is scheduled to address a rally at Nahan at 11 am in support  of BJP candidate for Shimla…

Thirty seven candidates to contest 4 Parliament seats of Himachal

As many as 37 candidates have been left in the fray for election to the four parliament constituencies of Himachal Pradesh while 25 candidates are in the fray for by-elections in six Assembly constituencies of the state. Chief Electoral Officer of Himachal Pradesh Manish Garg said , “ From Hamirpur parliament constituency 12 candidate, from…

Manali police arrests a person carrying dead body of a girl in a bag

The Manali police has arrested a tourist from Haryana for allegedly murdering his female friend in Manali, on Wedesday.  SP Kullu Gokulchandra Kartikeyan talking to media persons  at Manali on Thursday said, ” A Haryana youth Vikas Thakur (23) was arrested last night near Kullu while transporting dead  body of a girl in a bag…

Supreme Court orders release of News Click founder Prabir Purskayastha

The Supreme Court on Wednesday ordered the release of News Click founder Prabir Purkayastha terming his arrest as illegal by the Delhi police and his subsequent remand in a case under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, 1967. A Supreme Court Bench of Justice BR Gavai and Justice Sandeep Mehta held that his arrest and the…

INDIA Alliance parties to campaign jointly for Vikramaditya Singh

 INDIA Alliance parties have decided to campaign jointly in Mandi parliament constituency in favour of Congress candidate Vikaramaditya Singh. In a joint press conference at Mandi on Wednesday , working president of Mandi district Congress committee Shashi Sharma, CPM state secretariat member Kushal Bhardwaj, former national secretariat member of CPI Deshraj Sharma, state vice president…

Twenty seven candidates file nomination papers on the last day

As many as 27 candidates filed their nomination papers on the last day of nomination on Tuesday. Three from Hamirpur Parliamentary Constituency (PC), seven from Mandi PC, six from Kangra PC and one from Shimla Lok Sabha PC  filed nomination papers .  Ten candidates also filed their nomination papers for by-election in Vidhan Sabha seats….

Film actress Kangana Ranaut files nomination papers for Mandi parliament constituency

Film actress Kananga Ranaut filed her nomination papers for the Mandi parliament constituency on Tuesday as BJP candidate. Before filing her nomination papers at DC office Mandi, she  also held a road show in an open jeep  accompanied by her mother, former CM Jai Ram Thakur and state BJP president Rajiv Bindal . Later, addressing…

Eighteen candidates including Anurag Thakur file their nomination papers on Monday

Eighteen candidates filed their nomination papers on 5th day of filing nominations on Monday, for parliament and Vidhan Sabha by-elections in Himachal Pradesh. Polling for the parliament and Vidhan Sabha by-elections will  be held in the 7th and last phase of election on June 1. As per information provided by the state election department, the prominent among…

Action demanded against the power company after extensive damage in Chhota Bhangal

Hundreds of villagers of Multhan, Cher living in Chhota Bhangal area of Himachal Pradesh are still spending sleepless nights after  a blast on Friday in penstock in 25 Megawatt Lambadag Power Project ( being run by Mega Engineering Company ) causing extensive damage to their houses, shops and standing crops in fields. Akshay, a former…

BJP organizes road show and rally in support of Anurag Thakur at Hamirpur

The Bhartiya Janata Party (BJP) organized an impressive road show and Vijay Sankalp rally at Gandhi Chowk Hamipur on Saturday in support of BJP candidate from Hamirpur parliament constituency, Anurag Thakur.  Addressing the rally former Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur said, “I am witnessing such a huge crowd at Hamirpur for the first time which…

Delhi CM Kejriwal gets interim bail in alleged excise policy scam

The Supreme Court of India granted interim bail to Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, till June 1, allowing him to campaign in the ensuing parliament election, on Friday . National Convener of Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) , Kejriwal was arrested by Enforcement Directorate (ED) for his alleged involvement in ‘Delhi Excise Policy Scam” on March…

Prof. Lalit Awasthi takes over as Vice Chancellor of SPU Mandi

Prof. Lalit Kumar Awasthi assumed the charge of Vice Chancellor of Sardar Patel University Mandi on Thursday. Pro- VC Prof. Anupama Singh, Controller of Examination Sunil Verma and others welcomed Prof. Awasthi. He was appointed the VC a few months back by the state government and was working as Director of National Institute of Technology…

Congress candidates Anand Sharma(Kangra) and Vikrmaditya Singh (Mandi) file nomination papers

Congress candidates Anand Sharma (from  Kangra parliament constituency)  and Vikrmaditya Singh (from Mandi parliament constituency),  filed their nomination papers on Thursday at Dharamshala and Mandi, respectively. Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, Deputy CM Mukesh Agnihotri, Himachal Pradesh Congress Committee President Pratibha Singh and other Congress leaders held public meetings in support of Anand Sharma at…

Congress nominates Devinder Jaggi to contest Dharamshala Assembly by-election

Congress has nominated Devinder Singh Jaggi to contest by-election for Dharamshala Assembly constituency against rebel former Congress MLA Sudhir Sharma, contesting on BJP ticket. His name was cleared on Wednesday by All India Congress Committee President Malikaarjan Kharge. The nomination process has already begun on May 7th and nomination papers can be filed till May 14….

Dy CM Mukesh Agnihotri terms Kangana Ranaut as unguided missile

Deputy Chief Minister Mukesh Agnihotri has termed the BJP candidate from the Mandi parliamentary seat as “a un –guided missile and one who does not know what she is saying.” Talking to media persons at Mandi on Wednesday he said, “The Congress is contesting the election on issues but the BJP candidate doesn’t know about…

Ridhima Sharma tops 10th class result of HP Board of School Education

Naduan Government Girl School student Ridhima Sharma has topped the 10th class result of Himachal Pradesh Board of school Education (HPBSE) announced on Tuesday  by securing 699 marks out of 700 marks (99.86 percent).   Kritika Sharma of Neugal Model Public Senior Secondary School Bhawarna in Kangra district bagged the second position, scoring 99.71 percent…

Filing of nomination papers for parliament election to begin from Tuesday

The election process for the Mandi parliamentary constituency would begin on Tuesday with filing of nomination papers. Returning officer (Deputy Commissioner) for the Mandi parliamentary constituency Apoorv Devgan said , “ The nomination papers can be filed from May 7to 14 , except on public holidays on May 11 and 12,  from 11 am to…

Congress nominates Anuradha Rana for Lahaul – Spiti) and Subhash Chand for ( Badsar) Assembly by-elections

The Congress has announced names of party candidates to contest by-elections for Lahaul – Spiti and Badsar  (Hamirpur) Assembly constituencies of Himachal Pradesh. A party release from New Delhi has named Anurdha Rana for Lahaul- Spiti seat and Subhash Chand from Badsar Assembly constituency. Banking on grass root party leaders the Congress leadership has nominated…

Congress urges ECI to restrain Kangana from making personal remarks against Vikrmaditya Singh

Congress party has filed a complaint to the Election Commission of India (ECI) against BJP candidate from Mandi parliamentary constituency Kangana Ranaut for allegedly making “derogatory remarks “against Congress candidate from Mandi Virkrmaditya Singh and other Congress leaders. In the complaint, the Congress alleged, “Kangana used foul language against Vikramaditya Singh and referred to him…

BJP files complaint to ECI against HP Vidhan Sabha Speaker

BJP has filed a complaint against Himachal Pradesh Vidhan Sabha Speaker Kuldeep Pathania to Election Commission of India. In a complaint filed on Saturday, the BJP has “Accused the Speaker of allegedly attending political rallies of Congress candidate from Mandi constituency Vikrmaditya Singh”. The BJP has alleged, “That time and again the ruling government and…

President Droupadi Murmu accorded warm welcome on her arrival

President of India, Droupadi Murmu was given a rousing reception on her arrival at Shimla on Saturday.   HP Governor Shiv Pratap Shukla and Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu welcomed the President at Kalyani helipad. Speaker of Himachal Pradesh Vidhan Sabha Kuldeep Singh Pathania, the minister-in- waiting Health & Family Welfare Minister Dr. Dhani Ram…

Rahul Gandhi files nomination from Rae Bareli Lok Sabha seat

Hours before the last day of nominations,  Congress leader Rahul Gandhi filed his nomination papers from the Rae Bareli Lok Sabha seat on Friday , a constituency held by his mother Sonia Gandhi for the last two decades. He is also contesting from Waynad constituency in Kerala. Sonia was elected from Raebareli in 2004, 2009,…

Sushil Sharma elevated as chairman -cum- CMD of SJVN

Sushil Sharma, Director Projects of SJVN has assumed the additional charge of Chairman – cum-  Managing Director and Director (Personnel) .  Sharma has been serving as Director (Projects) of SJVN since August 1, 2020.and played pivotal role in executing 1500 MW Nathpa Jhakri Hydro Power Station, 412 MW Rampur Hydro Power Station and 60 MW…

President Droupadi Murmu to arrive in Shimla on Saturday

President of India Droupadi Murmu will arrive in Shimla on Saturday on her five day visit to Himachal Pradesh till May 8. During the visit, she will stay at The Retreat ( Rashtrapati Niwas), Mashobra. During her stay in the state she will grace the 7th Convocation of the Central University, Dharamshala; The President will witness…

CM takes dig at BJP leaders in a public meeting at Karog

 Chief Minister Sukhwinder Singh Sukhu addressing a public meeting at Karsog on Thursday in support of Congress candidate Vikrmadiya Singh took a dig at BJP leaders by saying, “A film of a flop director is bound to flop even if the actress is a super star.”  The CM said, “It is good thing Kangana has…

Pandoh Dam Executive Engineer issues alert

Senior executive engineer of BBMB project Pandoah Vivek Chopra has issued an alert  about opening  of spillway gates of Pandoh Dam. In a release the XEN said, “Due to melting of snow on higher reaches the water level in Pandoh dam is rising with a fast speed and  the spillway gates of the dam can…

CITU organizes rallies throughout the state to observe May Day

Hundreds of workers participated in rallies, flag hoisting ceremonies and seminars organized by the Himachal Pradesh unit of CITU at different places in the state on Wednesday to observe the May Day. State president of CITU Vijendra Mehra said, “While programmes at district level were organized throughout the state a state level rally was organized…

Dr Atul Verma appointed Director General of Himachal Police

Himachal Pradesh government has appointed Dr Atul Verma, a 1991 batch IPS officer as Director General of Police (DGP) Himachal . A notification to this effect was issued by Chief Secretary Prabodh Saxena on Wednesday. Verma, presently posted as Director General CID will replace Sanjay Kundu who retired on April 30.

Congress announces to field Anand Sharma from Kangra parliament constituency

The Congress High Command has announced names of Anand Sharma to contest Kangra parliament seat and Satpal Raizada to contest Hamirpur seat. This announcement was made in a press release by KC Venugopal, General Secretary of Congress at New Delhi on Tuesday. 

Congress may field senior Congress leader Anand Sharma to contest Kangra parliamentary seat

While Congress leadership is in the process of selecting candidates for  Kangra and Hamirpur parliamentary constituencies of Himachal Pradesh, speculation is rife Congress high command may field senior Congress leader Anand Sharma to contest from Kangra . Anand Sharma is a former Union Commerce,  Industries and Textile  Minister and has represented Himachal Pradesh  in the…

Girls grab top positions in HP Board plus two result

Himachal Pradesh Board of School Education (HPBOSE) today declared the results of class 10+2 in which top positions in arts, science and commerce streams in the state were grabbed by girls. In the arts stream, Arshita from DAV Senior Secondary School in Una bagged the first position, scoring 490 out of 500 marks. Shivangi Sharma…

Vikrmaditya Singh invites Kangana Ranaut for an open debate on development

PWD Minister and Congress candidate for Mandi parliamentary constituency, Vikramaditya Singh has accused majority of the national media for its partisan reporting by promoting ruling BJP and ignoring the opposition parties; they have every right to criticize but good work should also be appreciated, he said . Talking to media persons at Mandi on Monday,…

Four die and 12 injured in three accidents on Sunday

Four persons have died and 12 others were injured in three different accidents in Himachal Pradesh on Sunday.  Two persons travelling in a Bolero jeep were buried under huge boulders after a landslide in the afternoon on Hatkoti – Tueni road in Rohru subdivision of Shimla district, near Sanel. SDM Jubbal, Rajeev Sankhyan said ,…

Congress nominates three candidates to contest Assembly by-elections in Himachal

The All India Congress Committee (AICC) has approved the names of three candidates for by-elections in six Assembly constituencies of Himachal Pradesh scheduled to be held on June 1, along with elections for four parliamentary constituencies. As per a press release issued by KC Venugopal , General Secretary of the AICC , the Congress president…

Orange alert in six districts of Himachal Pradesh predicting rain and snow from April 26 to 29

The Mausam Vigyan Kendra Shimla has issued an orange alert in six districts of Himachal Pradesh from April 26 to 29, with a forecast of heavy rain in lower areas and snowfall on higher reaches . As per weather report issued by the meteorology department issued from Shimla on Thursday, the western disturbances would again…

BJP leader from Sujanpur Ranjeet Rana joins Congress

BJP candidate during the last Assembly election from Sujanpur constituency Captain Rajneet Rana (retired) joined Congress party at New Delhi. Rana , who had lost the 2022 Assembly election from Sujanpur at the hands of Rajender Rana who after turning a rebel had joined BJP recently, by a narrow margin of 399 votes . Rana…

SJVN commissions Green Hydrogen pilot project

India’s first Multi-purpose (Combined Heat & Power) Green Hydrogen Pilot Project executed by Satluj Jal Vidyut Nigam was commissioned at 1500 MW Nathpa Jhakri Hydro Power Station (NJHPS) in Jhakri, Himachal Pradesh on Wednesday. Chairman-cum – CMD of SJVN Geeta Kapur inaugurated 20Nm3/hr Electrolyzer & 25kW Fuel Cell Capacity based Green Hydrogen Pilot Project. A spokesman…

HGVS urges Chief Electoral Officer to check distribution of drugs during parliament election

Himachal Gyan Vigyan Samiti (HGVS) submitted a memorandum to Chief Electoral Officer (ECO) of the state, Muneesh Garg at Shimla on Tuesday demanding a check on distribution of drugs during the ensuing parliament election. After submitting the memorandum, state secretary of the HGVS, Satyawan Pundir said, “The HGVS has expressed serious concern on distribution of…

CITU launches campaign against the Modi government

The Shimla unit of Center of Indian Trade Unions (CITU) held a convention at Kali Bari Hall Shimla to launch a campaign against the Modi led Central government on Monday and released a manifesto CITU leaders said, “Hundreds of activists associated with Hotel, Sahib, IGMC, STP, Sunni Dam, Vishal Megamart, Tourist Guide, Tahabjari, Kalibari Temple,…

UGC allows bachelors with 4 year degree and 75 percent marks to pursue Ph.D

In a major change in admissions for PhD programmes, the University Grants Commission (UGC) has announced students with four-year undergraduate degrees can now directly appear for NET and pursue PhD. Chairman of the UGC Jagadesh Kumar said , “ To pursue a PhD with or without a Junior Research Fellowship (JRF), the candidates will require…

HP High Court issues notice to Harsh Mahajan on petition of Abhishek Manu Singhvi

The Himachal Pradesh High Court has issued a notice to BJP Rajya Sabha member Harsh Mahajan on the petition of Congress candidate Abhishek Manu Singhvi – a noted Supreme Court lawyer, who had lost the election despite the Congress having majority in HP Vidhan Sabha after cross voting by six Congress MLAs, on February 27….

Avalanche blocks flow of Chandrabhaga river in Lahaul

Widespread rain and snow in several parts of Himachal Pradesh have affected normal life as 112 roads including three national highways have been blocked due to landslides and slips. While isolated areas in the higher hills and tribal regions received light snowfall, the mid and low hills witnessed intermittent rains during the past 24 hours…

State celebrates 77th Himachal day

The 77th Himachal Day was celebrated with gaiety and fervour in the State on Monday. Governor Shiv Pratap Shukla unfurled the Tricolour and took the salute in an impressive march past at the state level function held at the Ridge in Shimla. The march past was led by Parade Commander, IPS Abhishek in which contingents of…

BJP manifesto promises free ration for poor, UCC and empowering women, youth and farmers

The Bhartiya Janata Party (BJP) released its manifesto (Sankalap Patra) for 2024 Lok Sabha elections promising continuation of free ration scheme for poor for next five years, Uniform Civil Code and empowering poor, youth, women and farmers. The manifesto was released by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, BJP president JP Nadda and other BJP leaders in…

VHP leader murdered in Una

Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) leader Vikas Prabhar was killed by two persons by attacking him with sharp edged weapons in Una district on Sunday. A police source said, “Prabhakar, a Mandal level leader of the VHP was sitting at his shop on Nangal Railway road in Una when two person came on a motorcycle and…

Congress fields Vikramaditya from Mandi and Vinod Sultanpuri from Shimla

All India Congress Committee ( AICC) has announced to field PWD Minister Vikramaditya Singh as a Congress candidate to contest the Mandi parliament seat against BJP  nominee Film actress Kangna Ranaut.  Vikramaditya Singh is son of six times former Himachal  Chief Minister Virbhadra Singh and his mother Pratibha Singh is sitting Congress MP from Mandi.  …

HGCTA criticizes functioning of Sardar Patel University Mandi

Himachal Government College Teachers Association (HGCTA) has strongly criticized the functioning of Sardar Patel University (SPU) Mandi. In a press release, president of the HGCTA Dr Banita Saklani accused, “The functioning of the SPU is anti-student and anti-education as the university authorities are busy in making anti government propaganda, and have urged the state government…

Four die in car accident

Four persons died in a car accident near Choi Nalla on Rana Bag – Karshala road in Ani sub division of Kullu district on Friday morning, when the car in which they were travelling, rolled down a hill. A police source said, “Those losing lives in the accident have been identified as Surender (40) –…

HP High Court issues notice to Vidhan Sabha Speaker

The HP High Court has issued a notice to the Speaker of the Himachal Pradesh Vidhan Sabha Kuldeep Singh Pathania on the petition filed by three Independent MLAs seeking the Court’s intervention for accepting their resignations by the Speaker.   A  Division Bench of the High Court headed by Chief Justice MS Ramachandra Rao and…

Sushil Sharma’s to be new CMD of SJVN

Public Enterprises Selection Board (PSEB) has recommended the name of Sushil Sharma for  the post of Chairman & Managing Director (CMD) of Satluj Jal Vidyut Nigam (SJVN)  Sharma is presently working as Director (Projects) in SJVN since August 1, 2020 and played major role in  implementation of 1500 MW Naptha Jhakari Hydro Power Project and…

HP CM served defamation notices by Sudhir Sharma and Rajender Rana

The two rebel Congress MLAs- Sudhir Sharma ( Dharmashala)  and Rajendra Rana (Sujanpur), disqualified from the membership of Himachal Vidhan Sabha under anti-defection law, accused of “taking money for cross voting in the Rajya sabha election” by Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu , have served legal notices to the CM for filing defamation suits . …

Congress likely to field Vikrmaditya Singh against Kangna Ranaut

As the Congress High Command is likely to announce party candidates for ensuing parliament and six Assembly by-elections in Himachal Pradesh any time after meeting of the screening committee of the party in New Delhi on Saturday, PWD Minister Vikrmaditya Singh, son of six times former Chief Minister Virbhadra Singh, is likely to be fielded…

Three children die after drowning in a pond

Three children lost their lives while taking a dip in a pond at Raipur Sahoda in Una district of Himachal Pradesh, on Sunday. A police source said, “Three children i.e Pankaj (8), Sonu (9) and Mukesh (11), went to take a dip in a nearby pond in the morning but were drowned; all of them…

Singhvi challenges election of Harsh Mahajan to Rajya Sabha in HP High Court

Congress leader and noted Supreme Court lawyer Abhishek Manu Singhvi has challenged the election of BJP candidate Harsh Mahajan elected to Rajya Sabha from Himachal Pradesh by defeating him through a draw of lots after a tie in the election, in the Himachal Pradesh High Court.   Singhvi had lost the Rajya Sabha election due…

Congress promises universal health care, MSP and waving off educational loans

The Congress has released its manifesto for the 2024 Lok Sabha election, promising jobs creation, and development of infrastructure, a national caste census and universal health care, among the major highlights. The manifesto was released in Delhi by party president Mallikarjun Kharge, flanked by senior leaders Sonia Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi. Former Union Finance Minister…

Delhi High Court turns down plea to remove Kejriwal as Delhi CM

The Delhi High Court  has refused to act on a plea seeking removal of Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal as Delhi CM . Turning down the pleas for the third time acting Chief Justice of Delhi High Justice Manmohan refused to counsel Delhi Governor VK Saxena saying, “Let democracy take its own course”. The court was…

Chief Minister lashes out at six Congress rebels

Launching election campaign of Congress party for the ensuing parliament and by-elections in six Assembly seats of Himachal Pradesh on Thursday from Samurkalan in Bangana (Kutlehar) Assembly constituency of Una district, the CM addressing a public meeting accused, “The six Congress rebels took Rs 15 crore each for betraying the Congress and joining BJP; we…

Where was Mandi Ki Beti (Kangna) during monsoon disaster – Vikramditya Singh

The Congress in-charge for Mandi parliamentary constituency, PWD Minister Vikramaditya Singh criticized Prime Minister Narendra Modi for “Allegedly misusing investigating agencies CBI and ED to terrorize opposition leaders.”      Singh, who was here to address a meeting of party office bearers at Mandi on Wednesday said, “The release of Aam Aadmi Party MP Sanjay Singh…

Roping-in ‘disgruntled’ in Mandi parliamentary constituency a challenge for BJP leadership

Though, BJP candidate from Mandi parliamentary constituency film actress Kangna Ranaut has started meeting party activists in the constituency, it is still a challenge for the BJP party leadership to assuage the feeling of dissident BJP leaders.   The nomination of Ranaut has left several party aspirants  disappointed over denial of the BJP ticket. Three times former…

” Rahul Gandhi doesn’t know meaning of democracy” – Kangna Ranaut

BJP candidate from Mandi parliamentary constituency ,film actress Kangna Ranaut said former All India Congress Committee (AICC) president and senior Congress leader Rahul Gandhi is “ignorant about the meaning of democracy”. Kangna Ranaut , who attended a meeting of BJP office bearers at Mandi on Monday, replying to a question about Rahul Gandhi’s assertion of…

Sixty eight NGOs demand moratorium on mega projects in the Himalayan region

As many as sixty-eight NGOs, working in the field of environment protection and climate change, adopted a demand charter for securing the Himalayas from disasters. The demand charter was adopted by the NGOs after a meeting to discuss the environmental and cultural issues of the Himalayan states of Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Sikkim, Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, Manipur…

Three Independent MLAs hold dharna in HP Vidhan Sabha pressing for acceptance of resignations

Three Independent MLAs – Hoshiyar  Singh (Dehra), KL Thakur (Nalagarh) and Ashish Sharma (Hamirpur) staged a dharna outside in of Himachal Pradesh Vidhan Sabha  Speaker at Shimla on Saturday to press acceptance of their resignations from Himachal Sabha. The three MLAs had tendered their resignations to Himachal Pradesh Speaker Kuldeep Singh Pathania on March 22…

AICC appoints two Congress working presidents for Himachal

All India Congress Committee (AICC) has appointed two more working presidents in Himachal Pradesh Congress committee (HPCC). Chief parliamentary secretary and Arki MLA Sanjay Awasthi and Dharampur MLA Chandershekhar are new working presidents appointed ahead of parliamentary elections. The AICC had appointed four working presidents before the 2022 Assembly election but Harsh Mahajan, Pawan Kajal and…

Pratibha Singh agrees to take on Kangna Ranaut in Mandi parliament constituency

Himachal Pradesh Congress Committee (HPCC) president Partibha Singh is most likely to contest the Mandi parliament seat again in the ensuing Loh Sabha elections as a Congress candidate, against BJP candidate Kangna Ranaut. Talking to media persons after a meeting of Congress coordination committee, attended by Rajiv Shukla, Congress in-charge of Himachal Pradesh at Chandigarh,…

Central University Professor arrested on charge of raping a student

The Kangra police have arrested a professor of the Central University (CU) of Himachal Pradesh (Kangra) on the charge of raping a student on Wednesday. The Superintendent of Police Kangra Shalini Agihotri said, “A professor working in the chemistry department of the CU has been arrested on the complaint of a PhD student in the…

Nomination of six disqualified rebel MLAs by BJP evokes strong reactions

March 26,2024 The decision of BJP leadership to field six disqualified Congress rebel MLAs, who had joined BJP on March 23, in the coming by-elections for the six Assembly constituencies, has evoked strong reaction from several BJP leaders and office bearers . The BJP has given ticket  to Ravi Thakur ( Lahaul-Spiti) , Rajender Rana…

Kangna Ranaut to contest Mandi parliament seat on BJP ticket

The Bhartiya Janata Party has announced to field film actress Kangana Ranaut from Mandi parliamentary constituency of Himachal Pradesh for the coming Lok sabha election. Her name was included in the fifth list of BJP candidates announced for the Lok Sabha election containing 111 names.on Sunday.  Rajiv Bhardwaj has been named as the party candidate…

Six disqualified Congress MLAs and three Independents join BJP, Shanta Kumar disapproves

March 23, 2024 In fast political developments on Saturday six disqualified Congress rebel MLAs and three Independents joined BJP in New Delhi. The rebel MLAs had deserted the Congress party during election for a Rajya sabha seat from Himachal Pradesh by cross voting for BJP candidate leading to defeat of Congress candidate Abhishek Manu Singhvi,…

Three Independent MLAs resign from Himachal Vidhan Sabha

March 22, 2024,   In a surprise move, three Independent MLAs elected during the 2022 HimachalPradesh Assembly Elections, have resigned from the membership of Vidhan Sabha. The three MLAS- Hoshiayar Singh elected from Dehra constituency, KL Thakurelected from Nalagarh and Ashish Sharma elected from Hamiprur constituency,accompanied by the leader of opposition Jai Ram Thakur, tendered…

HFRI celebrates the International Forest Day with HPU students

           The International Forest Day was observed by Himalayan Forest Research Institute (HFRI) Shimla at the Western Himalayan Temperate Arboretum, Potter Hill, Summerhill on Thursday. The students of department of Environmental Sciences of Himachal Pradesh University Shimla were specially invited to participate in the programme along with faculty members. Acclaimed historian…

Mandi MP Pratibha Singh expresses inability to contest next election

Himachal Pradesh Congress Committe (HPCC) president and sitting Congress MP from Mandi Pratibha Singh has shown her reluctance to contest the next parliament elections.  Talking to media persons after a meeting with Central Congress leadership in New Delhi, she said,” I have expressed my inability to contest the parliment election from Mandi.”  She said, ” Party…

Abhishek Jain relieved from the charge of Secretary Home on directions of ECI

Himachal Pradesh government has relieved senior IAS officer Abhishek Jain from the post of Secretary (Home, Vigilance and Information Technology) on the directions of Election Commission of India (ECI). The ECI on Monday directed to relieve Home Secretaries of six states including Himachal Pradesh. Himachal Home Secretary is also holding the charge of secretary to…

Supreme Court refuses to stay disqualification of Six Congress rebel MLAs, next hearing on May 6

The six Congress rebel MLAs disqualified by the Speaker of Himachal Pradesh Assembly,  did not get relief from the Supreme Court of India on Monday on their petitions seeking stay on their disqualification and by-elections process. A Supreme Court Bench headed by Justice Sanjiv Khanna, which included Justice Dipankar Dutta also turned down their request…

Lok Sabha elections in seven phases – counting on June 4 , Six rebels to face by-polls in HP

The elections for the Lok Sabha would be held in seven phases and counting of votes would be taken up on June 4. Announcing the election schedule in a press conference at New Delhi on Saturday, Chief Election Commissioner Rajeev Kumar flanked by two new Election Commissioners Gyanesh Kumar and Sukhbir Singh Sandhu announced the election…

Election Commission of India to announce Lok Sabha election schedule on Saturday

The Election Commission of India would announce election schedule for coming parliament election on Saturday in New Delhi. The Commission in holding a press conference in this regard at Vigyan Bhavan at 3 pm on Saturday, where it would announce schedule for the General Election to Lok Sabha and State Legislative Assemblies .

The week long Mandi shivratri festival concludes

The week long Shivratri festival came to end on Friday with a colourful shobha yatra on the concluding day from Madho Rai temple to Paddal ground. Himachal Pradesh Governor Shiv Pratap Shukla, Chief Guest of the function paid obeisance in Madho Rai temple and later participated in the shobha yatra wearing a colourful turban. Hundreds…

Himalyan Niti Abhiyan and other organizations support Sonam Wangchuk’s agitation in Ladakh

Several organizations of Himachal Pradesh have come in support of Sonam Wangchuk – known innovator and education reformer of Ladakh, observing hunger strike in Leh for the 8th day on Thursday to protect the rights of people of Ladakh. Himalaya Niti Abhiyan  supporting the  people of Ladakh said, “  Himalayan region is a unique land of…

Aarti Gupta appointed Director of Information and Public Relations Deptt.

Himachal Pradesh Government has promoted Aarti Gupta, Additional Director of Information & Public Relations as New Director of the department . The notification in this regard was issued by Chief Secretary Prabodh Saxena on Thursday. It is nearly after a decade the state government has promoted an incumbent Additional Director to the post of Director…

BJP to again field Anuarg Thakur and Suresh Kashyap from Hamirpur and Shimla parliamentary seats

` The Parliamentary Board of Bhartiya Janata Party (BJP) on Tuesday cleared the names of Union Information & Broadcasting Minister Anuarg Thakur to contest Hamirpur parliamentary seat of Himachal Pradesh and sitting Shimla MP Suresh Kashyap to contest Shimla (R) parliamentary seat. The names of Thakur and Kashyap were announced by General Secretary of BJP…

Supreme Court defers hearing on petition of Six disqualified Congress rebel MLAs for March 18

Six Congress rebel MLAs disqualified from HP Vidhan Sabha by the Speaker for defying the party whip, who had moved the Supreme Court of India challenging their disqualification, did not get immediate relief as the Apex court posted the matter for hearing on March 18. Taking up the petition of the disqualified MLAs , a…

HP CM leads torchlight march to protest attempts to destabilize Congress govt

Himachal Pradesh Congress Committee (HPCC) carried out a torchlight march from the Ridge to Ambedkar Chowk Shimla on Monday to protest the alleged attempts of BJP to topple the elected Congress government in Himachal Pradesh. Hundreds of Congress activists led by Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu and HPCC president Pratibha Singh marched from the Ridge…

Cashless treatment begins for HIM CARE beneficiaries at PGIMER Chandigarh

The Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGIMER) Chandigarh has started a cashless service for the beneficiaries of HIM CARE card holders. The cashless service was made functional on March 8 after a successful trial run of the service, said Prof. Vivek Lal, Director of the institute. The PGIMER Chandigarh and HIMCARE have…

Chief Minister inaugurates the week long Mandi Shivratri festival

The weeklong Shivratri festival of Mandi commenced with a colourful Shobha Yatra from Madho Rai temple to Paddal ground on Saturday. Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, the Chief Guest in the opening ceremony participated in the Shobha Yatra along with hundreds of deities carried by a large number of devotees on their shoulders and palanquins….

SJVN honours celebrity wrestler Geeta Phogat on women’s day

Satluj jal Vidyut Nigam (SJVN) organized a function to celebrate International Women’s day on Friday at its head office in Shimla. The function was presided over by Chairman –cum -Managing Director of SJVN Geeta Kapoor and renowned wrestler and Arjuna award winner Geeta Phogat was the guest of honour of the function. Addressing the gathering…

Achyut Krishna of Him Academy School Hamirpur scores 99.79 percentile in B Arch entrance test

Achyut Krishna, a student of Him Academy Public School Hamirpur has become Himachal Pradesh’s  topper of B Arch and B Planning entrance exams (2024), conducted by national testing agency. Director of Him Public school Pankaj Lakhnpal said, “Achyut Krishna has scored 99.79 percentile in the B.Arch entrance exam and 99.95 percentile in the B.Planning exam;…

HP Cabinet gives approval for direct recruitment of 2401 SMC teachers

Himachal Pradesh Cabinet has given approval to grant Rs 1500 per month to eligible women under Indira Gandhi Pyari Behna Sukh Samman Nidhi Yojna. The Cabinet meeting presided over by Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu held at Shimla on Thursday also decided to consider the recommendations of the Cabinet Sub Committee constituted under the chairmanship…

Anmol of Sarkaghat tops HAS examination

Anmol, a resident of village Chakku Tanda in Sarkaghat sub division of Mandi district has topped the Himachal Pradesh Administrative Services (HAS) Examination. Currently posted as BDO Totu (Shimla), Anmol is son of a former HAS Officer Krishan Chand, who recently retired from the post of RTO Mandi . His mother Usha Devi is a…

Everything possible in politics, says Vikramaditya Singh after meeting the rebels

HP Public Works Department (PWD) Minister Vikramaditya Singh after meeting the rebel MLAs said, “Everything is possible in politics and all doors are open.” The minister had met six rebel Congress MLAs disqualified from Himachal Pradesh Assembly under anti-defection law in Chandigarh on his way to Delhi. While talking to media persons at Shimla on…

HP High Court declares levying of water cess unconstitutional

Himachal Pradesh High Court declared the decision of the state government to levy water cess on power generation, as unconstitutional. In an order passed on Tuesday a Division Bench of the High Court headed by Justice Trilok Chauhan and Justice Satyen Vaidya held, “The provisions of the Himachal Pradesh Water Cess on Hydropower Electricity Generation…

Implement Nasha Nivaran Board’s report to check menace of drugs – former convener

Former state convener of Himachal Nasha Nivaran Board –cum advisor to state government, O P Sharma has urged the state government to implement the report submitted by the board for checking the drug menace in the state, in its letter and spirit. Talking to media persons at Mandi on  Tuesday, Sharma said , “ Though…

Prime Minister inaugurates four power projects commissioned by SJVN

Prime Minister Narendra Modi dedicated to the nation four power stations commissioned by Satluj Jal Vidyut Nigam (SJVN), virtually on Monday from Adilabad in Telangana. The four power projects are 60 MW Naitwar Mori Hydro Power Station in Uttarakhand, 75 MW Parasan Solar Power Station, 75 MW Gurhah Solar Power Station and 50 MW Gujrai Solar Power Station…

Himachal CM announces to give Rs 1500 per month to women above 18 years

Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu has announced to give Rs 1500 per month for all women aged over 18 years under Indira Gandhi Pyari Behna Sukh-Sammaan Nidhi Yojana.  Making this announcement in a press conference at Shimla on Monday, the CM said, “The state government has fulfilled its fifth election guarantee given during…

Anxious moments continue in Congress, HP Govt enhances DA of employees by 4 percent

Though the intervention of Congress High Command to contain discontentment among a section of the party MLAs and state Congress leaders had brought semblance of a united face of Congress government in the state, however worries continue. The defeat of Congress candidate Abhishek Manu Singhvi in Rajya Sabha election had brought the discontentment among party…

PWD Minister Vikramaditya Singh meets rebels MLAs in Panchakula

The hectic activity continued in Himachal Pradesh Congress on Friday as PWD Minister and son of former six times Chief Minister Virbhadra Singh, Vikramditya Singh left for Delhi on an official tour and also met six rebel MLAs disqualified from the membership of HP Vidhan Sabha on Thursday for defying the party whip, in Panchkula…

Sukhu to stay CM as all issues resolved , says Congress observer

The Congress observers appointed by the party high command to resolve the ongoing crisis in Himachal Pradesh have said all issues within the party have been resolved after consultation and Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu would continue as the state CM. Holding a joint press conference at the official residence of the CM at Shimla…

Six Congress rebel MLAs disqualified from Vidhan Sabha membership, Pratibha Singh justifies their grievances

Six Congress rebel MLAs have been disqualified from the membership of Himachal Pradesh Assembly under the anti- defection law by the Vidhan Speaker Kudeep Singh Pathania on Thursday. Pathania said, “The six MLAs defied the party whip by not being present in the Assembly during the voting on cut motion and the passing of the…

SJVN commissions 100 MW Solar Power project in Gujarat

The Satluj Jal Vidyut Nigam (SJVN) commissioned 100 Megawatt Raghanesda Solar Power Station in Banaskantha District of Gujarat On Wednesday.  Chairman -cum- Managing Director of SJVN Geeta Kapoor said, “The commissioning of SJVN’s eleventh power project has once again proved our dedication for enhancing the green energy landscape of the nation and further solidifies our…

CM puts up brave face, HP Budget passed, PWD Minister Vikrmaditya Singh resigns

Himachal Pradesh politics and the State Assembly witnessed unfolding of several quick developments on Wednesday after the surprising win of BJP candidate Harsh Mahajan in Rajya Sabha polls on Tuesday with the votes of Six Congress MLAs and three Independents MLAs. As the biggest challenge for the Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu government was get the money…

In a major jolt to Sukhu led Congress government in Himachal , BJP candidate Harsh Mahajan wins Rajya Sabha election

In a major jolt to the Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu led Congress government in Himachal Pradesh, BJP candidate Harsh Mahajan has won the Rajya Sabha election after declaration of result at Shimla on Tuesday. Despite,  BJP having 25 MLAs and Congress having absolute majority with 40 MLAs in the house of 68, and also claiming support…

IIT Mandi celebrates 15th Foundation Day

The Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Mandi commemorated its 15th Foundation Day on 27th February. Dr. Samir V. Kamat, Secretary DD (R&D) and Chairman Defence Research & Development Organization (DRDO) was the Chief Guest on the occasion while Mr. G. A. Srinivas Murthy, DS and Director, Defence Research & Development Laboratory (DRDL) and Mr. Manoj Jain, Director…

Winning Rajya Sabha seat in HP looks difficult for BJP

While Congress leaders are taking all measures for the victory of their Rajya Sabha candidate Abhishek Manu Singhvi in the election scheduled for February 27, the BJP leaders despite not having numbers in their favour, are keeping their moves quite secret. Election to fill up one seat for Rajya Sabha has become quite interesting after former…

HPGCTA demands regularization of all contract teachers

Himachal Pradesh Government College Teachers’ Association ( HPGCTA) has urged the state government to give benefits to all contract college teachers from January 31st as directed by Himachal Pradesh High Court.  Talking to media persons on Sunday the president of the association Dr Banita Saklani and other office bearers of the association said,” We held…

Organizations urge CM not to build mega power projects on Chandrabhaga river basin

Nearly a dozen environmental and tribal organizations of Lahaul –Spiti and Pangi under the banner of Ladakh Lahaul Pangi Manali Kiratpur Four Lane Stakeholders Joint front have urged Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu to declare Chandrabhaga river basin as No Go Zone for mega Hydropower projects. In a letter sent to the CM the organizations…

Kisan Sabha and CITU activists observe ‘Black Day’ to protest police action against agitating farmers

The Himachal Pradesh Units of Kisan Sabha and CITU observed ‘Black Day’ on Friday to protest alleged police repression and killing of a farmer on Punjab – Haryana border. A demonstration was held at DC Office Shimla to protest killing of a youth Shubhkaran Singh and injuring several others in the alleged police action against…

Former Bilaspur MLA injured in attack

Former Bilaspur Congress MLA Bambar Thakur was injured in an attack by certain people on Friday outside the office of a construction company near Nauni in Bilaspur district on Friday morning. A police source said, “Thakur had gone to the office of a railway construction company near Nauni and had heated arguments with some contractors…

Five school children injured in bus accident near Banjar

 Five school children were injured in a school  bus accident near Ghyagi on Banjar – Jalori Jot road in Kullu district at about 11 am on Friday. A police source said ,” A school bus of Minerva Public School skidded off the road nearly 100 feet and fell down in a gorge injuring five school…

Supreme Court directs Oberoi’s to handover Wild Flower Hotel to HP Govt

In a major boost to the Himachal Pradesh government, the Supreme Court of India has upheld Himachal Pradesh High Court’s decision of handing over Oberoi’s luxury hotel at WildFlower Chharabra, near Shimla to the state government. “The Supreme Court in its order passed on Tuesday did not allow the Special Leave Petition of the East…

JCB operator dies during widening of Mandi- Kullu National Highway

A JCB operator died while digging a hillock on Mandi – Kullu National Highway at  six mile near Mandi at about 1 pm on Tuesday. A police source said, “The deceased Phiroj Khan alias Saleem, a resident of village Jarli under Sadar Tehsil of Mandi district, died on the spot.” The police said, “The JCB…

Educational institutions closed for next two days due to threat of avalanches in Lahaul & Spiti

The Lahaul & Spiti district administration has announced to keep all educational institutions shut for two days in view of threat of avalanches due to heavy snowfall in the district in the next twenty four hours. Deputy Commissioner Lahaul & Spiti Rahul Kumar said , “ The entire district is experiencing heavy snow fall as…

Commander of Commando Operation during Mumbai terrorist attack, Brig. Sisodia felicitated

Brigadier Govind Singh Sisodia (retired), the Commander of the Black Cat Commando operation during 26/11 Mumbai terrorist attack, was felicitated in a function at Sardar Patel University Mandi on Sunday. The Pro-Vice Chancellor of Sardar Patel University Patel University Prof. Anupama Singh presented a Himachali cap, muffler and a memento to Brigadier Sisodia. Speaking on…

HP CM presents 2024-25 budget with no new taxes

Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu presented the second budget of his government for 2024-25 financial year in Himachal Pradesh Vidhan Sabha Shimla on Saturday. Presenting the budget the CM, as Finance Minister of the state, presented an outlay of Rs 58,444 crore for the financial year 2024-25 with a fiscal deficit of Rs…

State wide protests in Himachal to oppose policies of the Central govt

The call for Grameen Bandh and industrial strike given by Samyukta Kissan Manch and Central Trade Unions, received a good response in Himachal Pradesh as thousands of workers; farmers and youth organizations held protest demonstrations and staged Dharnas at many places on February 16 to oppose policies of the Central government. In Himachal Pradesh CITU…

Mandi District Congress Committee chief Prakash Chaudhary quits Congress

Mandi District Congress Committee president Prakash Chaudhary has resigned from the post and from the Congress party. He made an announcement through his Facebook account in this regard saying, “I Prakash Chaudhary resigns from the presidency of Mandi district Congress Committee, from Congress party and all posts.” Three times MLA from Balh constituency of Mandi…

BJP nominates Harsh Mahajan to contest Rajya Sabha poll against Abhishek Manu Singhvi

Making the contest for Rajya Sabha seat from Himachal quite interesting, BJP has fielded Harsha Mahanjan against Congress candidate Abhisehk Manu Singhvi in the ensuing election. Entry of Harsha Mahajan, a former Cabinet Minister in Virbhadra Singh government and  three times Congress MLA from Chamba, who had defected to BJP before the last Assembly election…

Congress nominates Abhishek Manu Singhvi for Rajya Sabha from Himachal

All India Congress Committee (AICC) has decided to field Supreme Court Lawyer Abhishek Manu Singhvi to fill the Rajya Sabha seat getting vacated on April 2nd from Himachal Pradesh. The term of national president of BJP, JP Nadda, the present Rajya Sabha member from Himachal Pradesh is coming to an end on April 2nd, since Congress…

SynCubator of IIT Mandi selected for Stanford Bio- design Innovators Garage programme

A neonatal incubator- (SynCubator) developed by a team of researchers from the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Mandi has been selected for the prestigious Stanford Bio- design Innovators Garage programme. Dr. Gajendra Singh, Assistant Professor, Dr. Satvasheel Ramesh Powar, Associate Professor and a third year Mechanical Engineering student Keshav Verma from the school of Mechanical…

Rajya Chayan Aayog will have corruption free recruitment system- CM

 Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu has assured to implement strict measures for adopting complete  transparency in functioning of newly constituted Himachal Pradesh Rajya Chayan Aayog (HPRCA) for recruitment of  Group-C posts.   He said , “ The state government has adopted zero tolerance for corruption and is  all set to provide a corruption free selection…

Mandi Shivratri festival from March 9 to 15

A weeklong famous Mandi Shivratri festival would be organized from March 9 to 15 this year. Deputy Commissioner Mandi Apporv Devgan after holding a meeting to review the arrangements with the officials said, “The Shivratri festival would be organized in a grand manner and preparation has already begun to make it a very successful event.”…

Mortal remains of wife of Deputy CM Mukesh Agnihotri consigned to flames

The mortal remains of Prof. Simi Agnihortri, wife of Deputy Chief Minister Mukesh Agnihotri, were consigned to flames at their ancestral village Gondpur -Jaichand in Haroli Tehsil of district Una on Saturday . Her last rites were performed by her husband Mukesh Agnihotri who lit the funeral pyre along with his daughter Aastha.   Chief…

Wife of Deputy CM Mukesh Agnihotri passes away

In very shocking news Prof. Simi Agnihotri, wife of Deputy Chief Minister Mukesh Agnihotri, passed away last night . The news of her death was shared by the Deputy CM Mukesh Agnihotri himself on his Facebook account “Prof. Simi left us last night leaving me and our daughter Dr Astha.” According to information, “Prof. Simi…

HP Cabinet constitutes a sub-committee to declare results withheld by HPSSC Hamirpur

Himachal Pradesh Cabinet has given approval to frame Rules of Business and Procedure in respect of Himachal Pradesh Rajya Chayan Aayog. The Cabinet Meeting presided over by Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu held at Shimla on Friday decided to constitute a Cabinet Sub Committee under the Chairmanship of Deputy Chief Minister Mukesh Agnihotri to examine…

Nomination process for Rajya Sabha election from Himachal to begin on February 15

Returning officer for Rajya Sabha Election from Himachal Pradesh issued a notification to fill a Rajya Sabha seat from Himachal getting vacated on April 2, 2024. As per election schedule announced by the Returning Officer of Himachal Pradesh State Assembly on Thursday, the nomination papers can be filed from February 15 to February 16 from…

Prof. Lalit K Awasthi appointed Vice Chancellor of SPU Mandi

Himachal Pradesh Governor Shiv Pratap Shukla has appointed Prof. Lalit Kumar Awasthi as new Vice Chancellor of Sardar Patel University (SPU) Mandi. As per a notification issued by Raj Bhavan on Thursday , Prof. LK  Awasthi , presently Director of National Institute of Technology Srinagar (Uttrakhand) , has been appointed Vice Chancellor of SPU Mandi for a…

HP Congress leaders request Mrs. Sonia Gandhi to contest Rajya Sabha election from the state

While Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu and other Congress leaders have requested former All India Congress Committee (AICC) President Sonia Gandhi to contest election for  Rajya Sabha seat getting vacated from Himachal Pradesh and are now awaiting a nod from Mrs. Gandhi. The term of BJP’s National President JP Nadda, a Rajya Sabha member from Himachal…

Will work as a team- new DC Mandi

Apoorv Devgan,  Deputy Commissioner Mandi, after assuming the charge  said, “An opportunity to serve as DC in Chhoti Kashi (Mandi) is blessings of elders and he will work as a team to give impetus to development works and achieve good results in the district. Interacting with media persons here on Tuesday he said, “The feedback…

Two labourers die in a landslide near Shimla

Two labourers sleeping in a hut died after getting buried under debris of a landslide near Junga in Shimla district on Monday night. A police source said, “Seven labourers were sleeping in the hut when it was hit by a landslide; two of them i.e. Rakesh Kumar (36) and Rajesh Kumar (36) both from Bihar…

Bodies for four workers still not found after devastating fire in a perfume factory in Baddi industrial area

No trace of four workers missing since Friday after devastating fire in an illegally run perfume factory at Jharmajri village in Baddi-Barotiwala industrial area of Solan district, has been found so far. Charred bodies of five workers have been traced by the police so far and 29 workers injured in the incident are being treated…

Mrs Geeta Kapoor becomes first women CMD of SJVN

Mrs. Geeta Kapur, Director (Personnel) of Satluj Jal Vidyut Nigam (SJVN), has assumed the charge of Chairman –cum- Managing Director (CMD) of the SJVN after superannuation of former CMD Nand Lal Sharma. Mrs. Kapoor has marked a historic milestone as the first female to lead any Hydro CPSE within the Indian Power Sector. Prior to…

Trade Unions hold demonstration demanding release of funds for MGNREGA workers

A joint demonstration against the state government was held on Tuesday by five trade unions at DC office Mandi demanding release of funds for MGNREGA workers . The workers led by  CITU, INTUC, SKS , AITUC and TUCC  leaders marched from the Seri Manch to the DC office raising slogans against the Congress government ….

Officials of construction company booked for death of two young men in road accident

Two young men lost their lives on Sunday midnight near Pulgharat (Mandi) on Kiratpur – Manali National Highway in a road accident. A Police source said, “Lalit Kumar (22) son of Bidhi Chand, a resident of village Jawali in Patdighat area of Mandi district and Harish Kumar (21) son of Raj Kumar, a resident of…

The dry spell in the region likely to end in the first week of February

With the predictions of rainfall and snow made by the meteorological department going haywire, the predicament of agriculturists, orchardists and common people is increasing in the state. The weather forecast of rain and snowfall in Himachal was made by Mausam Vigyan Kendra Shimla a few days back for January 24-25 and January 28 and 29….

CM unfurls National Flag on 54th Statehood day function at Dharampur (Mandi)

Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu extended Statehood Day greetings to the people of Himachal Pradesh on the 54th Statehood Day. The celebration took place at Dharampur in the Mandi district during a state-level function on Thursday. During the event, the Chief Minister hoisted the National Flag and received salutes from marching contingents of Police, Home…

IIT Mandi iHub showcases Drone Didi programme to President of India

The Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Mandi iHub showcased the success of Drone Didi programme to the President of India Smt. Droupadi Murmu at Kaushal Bhawan in New Delhi on Wednesday. ‘Drone Didi programme ‘is a skill development programme linked with the Prime Minister’s NaMo Drone Didi initiative among all skill training partners in India…

HGCTA president elected national vice president of AIFUCTO

Dr Banita Saklani, president of Himachal College Teachers’ Association (HGCTA) has been elected vice president of All India University and College Teachers’ Federation (AIFUCTO), in the 33rd Constitutional Conference held at Kanpur recently. The first women president of the HGCTA, Dr Salkani was elected to the post of the vice president as a representative of the…

Samyukt Kisan Morcha alleges surrender of over ten thousand crore allocated for agriculture by the ministry

The Samyuakt Kisan (SKM) has strongly condemned the Agricultural Ministry of the Central government for allegedly surrendering funds to the tune of Rs 105543.71 crore allocated during the last five years to the ministry for development of agriculture sector. SKM has been formed at National Level by several farmers’ unions to highlight various issues related…

State Govt puts recruitment of guest teachers on hold -CM

Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu said, “ The scheme for engaging guest teachers on hourly basis has been put on hold till all doubts about it are clarified.” The announcement of recruiting guest teachers in government schools and colleges had received a strong reaction from unemployed trained teachers, youths and academic community stirring protests in…

HP Govt announces full day public holiday on January 22

Himachal Pradesh government has announced a full day holiday on January 22 (on Monday) on the occasion of Ram Lala Pran Pratishtha ceremony at Ayodhya. As per a state government notification issued by Chief Secretary, “The full day public holiday would be observed in all HP government departments, schools, colleges and universities and the holiday…

Multi-story building crumbles near Shimla

A multi-story building collapsed at about 1 pm on Shimla- Dharamshala – Highway no 88 near Shimla on Saturday. The building located near government college Dhami had developed cracks a few days ago after which it was vacated by its occupants. A source in Shimla police said, “The building was owned by Raj Kumar and…

HP Govt’s decision to recruit guest teachers invites ire

The decision of Himachal Pradesh government to recruit nearly 2600 teachers in government schools and some colleges as guest faculty has been strongly opposed by trained unemployed teachers, academicians and several other organizations. The strongest criticism has come from B.Ed and M.Ed degree holders and hundreds of them even held a protest demonstration at Dharmshala…

Governor presides over Army Day function

Himachal Pradesh Governor Shiv Pratap Shukla presided over the Army Mela organized at Annandale ground, Shimla on the Army day on Monday. Lt. General Manjinder Singh, General Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Army Training Command (ARTRAC) Shimla welcomed the Governor on this occasion. The Governor said,” The Army Day is an important occasion to pay homage to  indomitable spirit,…

Former Darang MLA Dina Nath Shashtri passes away

 Former Darang MLA Dina Nath Shashtri (85) passed away in his village Tandu on Monday afternoon. He was elected MLA from Darang Assembly constituency in 1990 on BJP ticket by defeating Congress stalwart Kaul Singh Thakur. A school teacher by profession, Shashtri was quite active in trade union activities His family sources said, “He felt…

Kiratpur -Manali highway becomes first Green Corridor of Himachal

As an initiative to develop Himachal Pradesh into a Green State, the state government has provided E-charging facilities on Kiratpur–Manali highway till Keylong, making it the first Green Corridor of the state.   The Indian Oil Corporation Limited has established seven E-charging stations at Ghandal, Daseran near Darlaghat, Nauni near Bilaspur, Jadol, Ner Chowk Bye…

Supreme Court sets aside the High Court orders reassigning HP DGP Sanjay Kundu

  In a major respite to Director General of Himachal Police (DGP) Sanjay Kundu, the Supreme Court has set aside the HP High Court’s order of shifting him from the post of DGP passed on January 9. A three judge bench headed by Chief Justice DY Chandrachud in an order on Friday disapproved the manner…

HP Cabinet decides to enhance marriageable age of girls from 18 to 21 years

Himachal Pradesh Cabinet has decided to enhance the marriageable age of girls in the state from 18 years to 21 years. The meeting presided over by Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu held at Shimla on Friday decided to make amendments in the Acts and Rules in this regard. The Cabinet also decided to give approval…

High Court grants stay on running food court in Shimla Town Hall

The Himachal Pradesh High Court has granted an interim stay on running a food court in the historic Town Hall Building on Mall Road Shimla. Hearing a petition filed by advocate Abhimanyu Rathod , a division bench headed by Chief Justice MS Ramchandra Rao and Justice Jyotsna Rewal Dua on Wednesday  passed an interim order…

HP High Court dismisses review petitions of Sanjay Kundu and SP Kangra, upholds decision to remove them

The Himachal Pradesh High Court has dismissed the review petitions of former Director General of Himachal Police (DGP) Sanjay Kundu and SP Kangra Shalini Agnihotri. A double bench of the Himachal Pradesh High Court headed by Chief Justice MS Ramchandra Ra and Justice Jyotsna Rewal Dua on Tuesday hearing the review petitions dismissed the petitions….

Vice President of India lauds achievements made by the country

The Vice President of India Jagdeep Dhankar said our country has transformed in many ways during the last few years. Addressing a gathering at Hamirpur on Saturday the vice president, while presiding over a function of 500th center of Ek Se Shreshta programme, the vice president said, “I congratulate Union Minister Anurag Thakur, who I met…

HP High Court allows HP government to take over Wildflower Hotel

Himachal Pradesh High court has given a big relief to Himachal Pradesh government by accepting its appeal to take over luxurious Wildflower Hotel (Chharabra) near Shimla, which is being run by Oberoi Group Hotels- East India Hotels Limited. Accepting the appeal of the state government to take over possession of the Hotel, Justice Satyen Vaidya…

HP High Court grants interim stay on giving ST status to Hattees

In yet another significant court order Himachal Pradesh High Court has granted interim stay on the implementation of notifications issued by the state and the central governments giving schedule tribe (ST) status to Hattee community living in Trans Giri area of Sirmaur district of Himachal Pradesh. Hearing a petitions of Giripar Anusuchit Jaati Adhikar Sangharash…

HP High Court restrains state govt. from giving perks to CPS and performing ministerial duties

In a major jolt to the Himachal Pradesh Congress  government,  the H P High Court has restrained it from giving perks,  facilities and from performing ministerial duties to six Chief Parliamentary Secretaries (CPS)  appointed by the Congress government . Hearing a petition filed by eleven BJP MLAs terming the appointment of 6 Congress MLAs as…

Supreme Court stays transfer of Sanjay Kundu from the post of DGP

Former Director General of HP Police (DGP) Sanjay Kundu got a relief from the Supreme Court of India as the Apex court asked the HP High Court to hear his reassigning petition and stayed his transfer orders. Kundu had moved the Apex Court against his removal from the post of the DGP and appointing him…

BJP and Congress leaders vying to take credit for granting ST status to Hattees

After notification for giving scheduled tribe (ST) status to  Hattee community of Trans Giri belt in Sirmaur district of Himachal Pradesh was issued by the state government on January 1, both ruling Congress and the Opposition BJP have started taking credit for fulfilling long pending demands of the Hattees . Nearly 1.6 lakh Hattees living in…

HP Govt removes Sanjay Kundu as DGP- appoints him Secretary Ayush Deptt.

Himachal Pradesh government has removed Director General of Police (DGP) of HP Police Sanjay Kundu from his present assignment after directions from Himachal Pradesh High Court. Acting on the directions issued  by a double bench of the Court headed by Chief Justice MS Ramachandra Rao and Justice Jyotsna Riwal Dua on December 26; the department…

HP Cabinet decides to promote Rajiv Gandhi Start Up scheme for setting up solar power plants

Himachal Pradesh State Cabinet has decided to start Rajiv Gandhi Swarozgar Start up Yojna phase (11) for setting Solar Power Projects for the youths of 21 years to 45 years in the state. The meeting held at Shimla on Monday presided over by Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu envisaging Green Initiative of HP government decided…

HP Govt bans purchase of petrol and diesel vehicles by government departments

Himachal Pradesh government has put a ban on purchase of new diesel or petrol vehicles from January 1, 2024 in the state. Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu said, “In an initiative to achieve the goal of Green and Clean Himachal the state government has directed all government departments not to buy diesel or petrol vehicles…

HPGCTA urges the state government to extend date of application for national scholarship

Himachal Government College Teachers’ Association (HGCTA) has urged the state government to extend the last date of application for national scholarship. In a press release president of the HGCTA Banita Saklani said, “Many colleges in the state have been facing technical issues on the National Scholarship Portal and many students are facing difficulties to apply…

Researchers of IIT Madras and Mandi develop plant cells of a drug used in treating cancer 

  Researchers at IIT Madras and IIT Mandi have successfully metabolically engineered the plant cells of Nothapodytes nimmoniana to significantly increase the production of Camptothecin, a vital component used in cancer treatment. The breakthrough has been achieved by Sarayu Murali, a PhD student at IIT Madras and a team of experts for developing a genome-scale…

HP High Court directs removal of DGP HP Police and SP Kangra from their present postings

Himachal Pradesh High Court has directed the state government to  remove Director General of Police (DGP) Himachal Pradesh and Superintendent of Police (SP) Kangra from their present places of postings .  Acting on a complaint of a Palampur based businessman, a Division bench of HP High Court headed by Chief Justice MS Ramchandra Rao and…

Thousands throng tourist towns in Himachal to celebrate Christmas

All tourist places in Himachal are choked with tourist vehicles as thousands of tourists have reached major tourist places like Manali, Shimla, and Dharamshala etc. to celebrate Christmas holidays. The capital towns Shimla, Manali and Atal Tunnel Rohtang have witnessed maximum influx of tourists during the past twenty four hours as thousands of tourists have…

President of Govt College Teachers’ Association demands scrapping of contract policy

President of Himachal College Teachers’ Association (HGCTA)   Dr. Banita Saklani has demanded repeal of the state government’s policy to recruit college teachers on contract basis. Dr Saklani said ,” The contact policy is not in the best interest of the employees and the state government should scrap the policy, besides providing service benefits to…

Trade Union leaders demand restoration of financial assistance to MNREGA workers

A joint delegation of trade unions submitted a memorandum to Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu through DC Mandi Arindam Chaudhary to protest stopping of benefits to MNREGA and other construction workers registered with the Labour Welfare Department of the state on Saturday . The trade union leaders i.e state convener of Sangharsh Samiti Bhupinder Singh…

Website launched for online puja in Kangra temples, Chintpurni temple to have a rope way

Himachal Pradesh government has engaged Sky Himalayas Ropeways Private Limited Company to build a ropeway at Chintpurni temple in Una district for pilgrims. The letter of award to the company was handed over by Ajay Sharma, Director Ropeways and Rapid Transport System Development Corporation at Dharamshala on Friday. Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu said, “The…

BJP MLA’s stage protest during the winter session of HP Vidhan Sabha

Bhartiya Janata Party MLAs staged a protest outside Himachal Pradesh Vidhan Sabha on Thursday during winter session of the Assembly at Tapovan near Dharamshala, posing as milkmen, demanding purchase of milk at Rs 100 per kilogram from milkmen of the state as guaranteed by the Congress in its election manifesto during the last Assembly election….

IIT Mandi gets Green University Award at COP 28 UAE

The Indian Institute of Technology (IIT)  Mandi has been awarded the prestigious Green University Award in COP 28 UAE. The award was conferred by Green Mentors, a non-governmental organization holding special consultative status with the United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) in the United States. Speaking on this achievement, Director of IIT Mandi Prof. Laxmidhar Behara…

Congress supported Councillors cross vote to elect BJP supported Deputy Mayor in Solan Municipal Corporation

The Congress leadership failed to keep its flock together for the election of Mayor and Deputy Mayor in Solan Municipal Corporation (MC) losing the post of Deputy Mayor to a BJP supported candidate, despite having a majority in the house. Due to deep chasm between different MC councilors aspiring to grab the posts of Mayor…

HPCC president Pratibha Singh says -not intimated about the function at Dharamshala

The statement of Himachal Pradesh Congress Committee (HPCC) president Pratibha Singh for not being informed about the state level function being organized by the state government at Dharamshala to celebrate one year of formation of the Congress government , has exposed lack of coordination between the Congress organization and the government .   Chief Minister…

Six die and six injured in road accident near Kadarghat on Shimla- Mandi road

Six passengers travelling in a pickup jeep died and six others injured in a road accident near Kadarghat (Jalog) on Shimla – Mandi road at about 7 am on Monday. The pickup jeep (HP63-0231) carrying 12 workers was coming from Sunni to Mandi when the driver of the vehicle lost veering off the road and…

Indus Global School celebrates Annual Day

14th Annual Day function of Indus Global School was celebrated at Sanskriti Sadan Mandi in which students from sixth to twelfth class gave their performances on Sunday . Deputy Commissioner (DC) Mandi Arindam Chaudhary was the chief guest in the function who gave away awards to students excelling in different fields. Addressing the gathering on…

E-Auction of fancy numbers to begin from December 4

Himachal Pradesh government is starting e-auction of fancy numbers for motor vehicle’s  special registration of 0001  series from December 4.  Director Transport, Anupam Kashyap said , “ The transport department would start e -auction for fancy numbers for HP63F-0001 ( RTO Shimla),  HP33G-0001 ( RTO Mandi) and HP68C-0001(RTO Kangra) series from December 4 and people…

HP Cabinet approves 30 percent reservation for women in recruitment of police constables

Himachal Pradesh Cabinet has decided to give 30 percent reservation to women candidates for recruitment of police constables, besides giving revised approval for filling up 1226 posts of police constables. The Cabinet Meeting held at Shimla on Friday presided over by Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu announced to make provisions for giving benefits to orphans…

Workshop to highlight right to health begins at STD center Nagwain

All India People’s Science Network (AIPSN) is organizing a workshop from November 30 to December 3rd at Society for Technology and Development (STD) center Nagwain in Mandi district of Himachal Pradesh, to highlight the Right to Health in India. An Executive Committee member of AIPSN Joginder Walia said, “The workshop is focusing on capacity building of…

Former Chamba MLA BK Chauhan passes away

Former Chamba MLA and a retired bureaucrat BK Chauhan (76) passed away in New Delhi on Wednesday morning. Chauhan was elected MLA from Chamba sadar constituency on BJP ticket two times from 2007 to 2012 and 2012 to 2017. He hailed from Kundi village of Chamba and did his graduation from Government College Chamba, later…

Trade unions and farmer’s organization demand minimum wage of Rs 26000 and MSP for farm produce

A three day state level convention of trade union activists, farmers, a section of state government employees and other organizations concluded with a public meeting at Chaura Maidan Shimla on Monday.  The trade union activists under the banner of CITU, members of Himachal Kisan Sabha, workers from NHPC and SJVN power projects, hospitals, municipal bodies,…

BJP supported Virender Bhatt elected Mayor of Mandi Municipal Corporation

BJP supported  councilor Virender Bhatt has been elected new Mayor of Mandi Municipal Corporation (MC) while Madhuri Kapoor has been elected Deputy Mayor in the house of fifteen with BJP supporters having a strength of 11 against four Congress supported councilors. The election of Mayors and Deputy Mayors are being held after two and half…

Former DGP of Sikkim Sanam Dubke Negi cremated with full state honours

Former Director General of Sikkim Police Sanam Dubke (SD) Negi was cremated with full state honours at his family’s ancestral cremation ground  Yangpa 1 on the banks of river Satluz on Friday. Negi was living in Gangtok with his family and had come to visit his ancestral village near Bhava in Kinnuar district of Himachal…

Eight new areas to be demarcated as green belts in Shimla

Himachal Pradesh government is preparing to create eight new green belts in and around Shimla town to restrict large scale construction in the popular tourist town and capital of the state- known as Hill Queen. Shimla at present has 17 green belts where construction has been banned by the town and country planning department. Preparation…

Stage singer Rekha Chauhan conferred Shane- Bharat award

Rekha Chauhan a known stage singer of Mandi has been awarded Shane –e- Bharat (Himachal) national award by an organization – Betia Foundation.  The award was given to Rekha Chauhan for her contribution in folk singing, in a function held at Manali recently by president of the foundation Dr. Jyotsna Jain. Rekha hails from Joginder Nagar area…

Himachal government adds nearly Rs 1100 crore in its revenue -CM

Himachal Pradesh government has witnessed an estimated increase of Rs 1100 crore in the revenue of the state. Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu said , “ The revenue of the state government has increased by nearly  Rs 1100 crore due to various measures taken by the state government; if natural disasters in the state had…

Former DGP of Sikkim Police Sanam Dubke (SD) Negi passes away

Former Director General of Sikkim Police Sanam Dubke (SD) Negi passed away on Monday night at his ancestral village Podagaru near Bhava in Kinnaur district of Himachal Pradesh. A 1987 batch Indian Police Services (IPS) Officer of Sikkim cadre, Negi had come to visit his village a few days back but unfortunately had a massive…

Himachal government bans transfers of state government employees w.i. from November 21

Himachal Pradesh government has put a complete ban on transfers of state government employees in the state with effect from November 21, 2023. As per a notification issued by the General Administration Department of the state government no transfer of any state government employee would be effected in the state till further orders in this…

HP High Court dismisses petition of Dr Anupama Pro Vice Chancellor of SPU Mandi

In a major jolt to Dr Anupama Pro- vice chancellor of Sardar Patel University (SPU) Mandi, the Himachal Pradesh high Court has dismissed her petition challenging cancelation of her extra ordinary leave from Himachal Pradesh University (HPU) Shimla by the Executive Committee (EC) of the HPU.   In an order passed by Justice Sateyan Vaidya…

HP Cabinet recommends convening winter session at Tapovan from December 19 to 23

Himachal Pradesh Cabinet has decided to convene the winter session of HP Vidhan Sabha from December 19 to 23 at Tapovan Dharamshala and sent the recommendation to HP Governor. The decision was taken in a Cabinet meeting held at Shimla on Saturday presided over by Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu. The Cabinet also decided to…

HP government’s committee blames unscientific mining in the Beas River basin for huge damages during monsoon calamity

A committee constituted by Himachal Pradesh government to determine reasons other than the climatic change, responsible for massive devastation in the state during the last monsoon season, has blamed unscientific and illegal mining along the river beds for the damages. .   A spokesman of the state government said, “Unscientific and illegal mining along the…

Himachal Pradesh High Court asks the state government to file FIR against HP DGP

Himachal Pradesh high Court has directed the Himachal Pradesh government to file an immediate FIR against the Director General of Police (DGP) of the state, Sanjay Kundu in a complaint filed by a Palampur based businessman Nishant Sharma. Taking a suo- moto cognizance of the complaint by Nishant Sharma , a Division bench of the…

BJP stalwart Shanta Kumar unveils Jawaharlal Nehru’s statue, donates Rs one lakh for it

BJP stalwart and former Chief Minister of Himachal Pradesh Shanta Kumar has praised India’s first Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru after unveiling his statue at Palampur. Shanta Kumar  known for speaking out independent thoughts on several occasions , even differing to ideological position of the BJP , while addressing a gathering  in the programme he said…

Air flight between Shimla and Amritsar to start from November 16

The much awaited air flight between Shimla – Amritsar and Amritsar – Shimla will start from November 16.  The flight operated by Alliance Airlines is being run under Ude Desh Ka Aam Nagrik (UDAN) scheme and would run three times a week i.e. Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday. The flight would take off from Jubbarhatti Airport…

CM Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu returns back to Shimla from AIIMS

Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu was given a rousing welcome on reaching back to Shimla on Saturday after remaining admitted to All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) New Delhi for treatment of stomach related ailment, by his Cabinet colleagues, MLAs and his supporters. The CM was shifted to AIIMS New Delhi on October 27…

Supreme Court dismisses HP government’s plea to club petitions challenging appointments of CPSs

In a major setback to Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu led Congress government of Himachal Pradesh, the Supreme Court of India has dismissed the petition of the state government pleading transfer of case from HP High Court to the Apex Court   in appointments of six Chief Parliamentary Secretaries (CPSs). The state government during hearing of several petitions…

IIT Mandi signs MOUs to collaborate with several institutes

The Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Mandi has signed Memorandum of Understanding (MOUs) with the Defence Research & Development Laboratory (DRDL), Hyderabad, NIT Uttarakhand and Sant Longowal Institute of Engineering and Technology (SLIET), Longowal, for research and academic interactions. The MOU with the DRDL Hyderabad would collaborate with Research Center of IIT Mandi and facilitate off-campus Ph.D./M.Tech…

Mandi district administration promoting Diwali gift packs containing local products

In its earnest effort to empower rural women of Mandi district, the Mandi District Rural Development Agency (DRDA) is helping them market local products prepared by Self Help Groups (SHGs) during the Diwali festival. The gift packs contain traditional local sweets made from the flour of kodra like kodra ladoos, biscuits, panchgavya diyas, soybean burfi,…

Yellow alert for several districts of Himachal predicting rain and snowfall

Indian Meteorological Center (IMD) Shimla has issued a yellow alert for many places of Himachal Pradesh forecasting a spell of snowfall in the higher altitudes and rainfall in middle and low altitude areas for 9, 10 and 11 November. In its latest weather bulletin issued for the state at Shimla on Tuesday the Centre has…

Film actress Kangana’s wish to enter next parliament election starts murmurs in BJP

Film Actress Kangana Ranaut’s statement expressing her desire to enter active politics by contesting next Parliament election from BJP has created a murmur in Mandi BJP since the actress hails from Bhambla area falling in Mandi Parliamentary constituency. Kangana Ranaut, a successful film actress,  a strong votary of BJP politics and a big supporter of…

Accused in Crypto Currency Fraud wont’ be spared – Deputy CM

Deputy Chief Minister Mukesh Agnihotri has appealed to the public not to fall prey to Ponzi schemes for fast returns and assured the Kingpin of the Crypto Currency Fraud won’t be spared. While presiding over a meeting at Shimla on Saturday he said, “It a matter of concern over Rs 2500 crore was invested by…

MSJVS honours Padam Shri Nek Ram and Councillor Rajender Mohan for their valuable social contributions

Mandi Shakshrta and Jan Vikas Samiti (MSJVS) organized a function to honour Padma Shri Nek Ram Sharma and Mandi Municipal Corporation Councilor from Nela ward Rajender Mohan, for their valuable contributions to the society through their commendable works, at Mandi on Saturday. Padamshri Nek Ram was honoured for his valuable contribution in promoting organic farming…

Five die and seven injured in road accident near Alsindi in Karsog sub division

In yet another accident five persons lost their lives and seven other were injured in a road accident on Friday morning at about 11 am on Karsog – Shimla road near Alsindi, under Karsog sub division of Mandi district, when a Tata Sumo Jeep (HP30-6046) fell into a deep gorge. Twelve persons were reportedly going…

CITU activists hold demonstration to protest sacking of IGMC workers

Hundreds of sanitation workers ward attendants, security personnel, staff nurses, date entry operators, laboratory technicians, cooks and helpers sacked by Indira Gandhi Medical College (IGMC) authorities, held a silent protest demonstration before the office of Labour Department at Shimla on Thursday.     The sacked employees have launched an agitation against the IGMC administration for the…

Former CM Jai Ram Thakur criticizes the state government for abandoning natural farming scheme

Leaders of Opposition – former Chief Minister Jairam Thakur has accused the Congress led state government for working with vindictive spirit for the past one year in the state and trying to close down the schemes started by the previous BJP government. He said, “After closing down several schemes now the state government has chosen…

The week long Kullu Dussehra concludes

The weeklong historical Kullu Dussehra concluded at Kullu on Monday with the principal deity of the festival Lord Raghunath returning to its temple at Sultanpur and over three hundred deities camping at the festival ground for a week, returning to their abodes. The chariot of Lord Raghunath was taken back in a procession and thousands…

DoT selects IIT Mandi to host 5 G Use- Case Lab

The Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Mandi has been selected by the Department of Telecommunications (DoT), Government of India to host a 5G Use-case lab. This lab will be set up by the School of Computing and Electrical Engineering at IIT Mandi and will facilitate the development, experimentation of 5G applications in various socioeconomic verticals. The DoT officially awarded…

Himachal Gyan Vigyan Samiti organizes convention on New Education Policy

Himachal Gyan Vigyan Samiti organized a state level convention at Mandi on Saturday to discuss the adverse impact of New Education Policy (NEP) being implemented by the Central government in which a large number of college and schools teachers, educationists and students participated. Inaugurating the convention Dr. Anita Rampal former Chairman of Education of Delhi…

HP Chief Minister shifted to AIIMS New Delhi for further investigation

Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu was admitted to All India Institute of Medical Sciences at New Delhi on Friday. A government spokesman said, “The CM is undergoing some tests in the Department of Gastroenterology of the AIIMS which may take two to three days.” He said, “The CM is  under the observation of the team…

Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu hospitalized

Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu was admitted to Indira Gandhi Medical College (IGMC) Hospital Shimla on late Wednesday night due to severe pain in his stomach. Media advisor to the Chief Minister, Naresh Chauhan said, “The Chief Minister had reported acute pain in his stomach in the midnight after which he was admitted in IGMC…

The death of a NIT student with suspected over dose of a drug exposes extent of drug menace

With the death of an engineering student in his hostel room at the National Institute of Technology (NIT) Hamirpur after a suspected overdose of a drug, has  exposed the alarming menace of drug addiction spreading among students and youths of Himachal Pradesh. The death of an M Tech student Sujal Sharma from a suspected overdose…

CM asks BJP leaders to seek relief package for the state from the PM

Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu has asked BJP leaders to desist from doing politics over the relief package to Himachal Pradesh by the Central government in the wake of natural calamity and instead request the Prime Minister to give a relief package to the state. Addressing a gathering at Paddal ground Mandi on Monday he said,…

Zila Parishad employees withdraw strike after assurance from minister

The ongoing strike by employees of Zila Parishad has been withdrawn by the employees after getting assurance from Minister of Rural Development Anirudh Singh to concede their demands. The development came when the state government had suspended 167 striking junior engineers working in various Zila Parishads on Friday. Forty seven hundred employees working in Zila…

CM launches DBT to disaster affected families from Kullu

Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu started ‘Punrvaas’, a rehabilitation initiative of the state government for the disaster affected families on Saturday from Kullu through direct transfer of relief packages. The CM released Rs. 3 lakh each to 324 affected families of Kullu district amounting Rs 9.72 crore as the first installment through direct benefit transfer,…

Union Minister Anurag Thakur administers oath to youths in meri mati mera desh programme at Mandi

The Union Minister of Information, Broadcasting, Youth and Sports Affairs Anurag Thakur said, “Meri mati mera desh is a unique programme through which brave men and women of India are being honoured by taking panch pran oath to salute them.”  Addressing the audience at Motipur in Mandi on Saturday the minister said, “Azadi ka Amrit…

HP Govt suspends 167 striking JE’s working in Zila Parishads

Acting tough against the striking employees of Zila Parishad, the state government has suspended the services of 167 junior engineers .  Forty seven hundred employees working in different Zila Parishad of the state have launched an agitation demanding their merger with the employees working in Panchayati Raj department of the state. They have struck their…

State govt. to withdraw special road tax levied on tourist vehicles – CM

Himachal Pradesh government would soon reduce the special road tax and other taxes levied on tourist buses, tempo travelers and commercial tourist vehicles. Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, after meeting a delegation of Shimla Hotel and Tourism Stakeholders’ Association at Shimla on Thursday said, “The state government is seriously considering to  revise the notification regarding…

Central team visits Dam sites to probe complaints of release of excess water during monsoon fury

A team of the Central Water Commission visited Pandoh Dam on Wednesday to probe the circumstances in which excess water was suddenly released from the dams during monsoon fury in the state this year. It is notable the rain fury in the month of August this year had caused huge natural calamity and massive devastation….

565 pass outs including sixty PhD’s , awarded degrees in 11th convocation of IIT Mandi

As many as five hundred and sixty five pass outs from Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Mandi of B Tech, M Tech, MSc, MA, 10 Master of Science courses and sixty PhD,  were awarded degrees in the 11th convocation ceremony of the institute held at IIT campus on Monday. Aditya Sarkar has been awarded the President…

Him Academy Public School organizes annual day function

Him Academy Public School organized its annual day function in the school campus at Vikas Nagar (Hamirpur) on Sunday. Vaishali Sharma (HAS), an alumni of Him Academy Public School, presently  BDO Karsog, was chief guest of the function and was accorded a guard of honour by NCC wing of the school on her arrival in…

IIT Mandi researchers find ground water in Punjab highly toxic and cancerous

A research team of Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Mandi has made startling findings about the quality of ground water in Punjab, revealing high levels of contamination in the groundwater leading to several health hazards including risk of cancer.  The study aimed to track changes in drinking water quality in Punjab from 2000 to 2020…

HP Govt’s proposal to allow construction in Shimla’s Green Belts comes under criticism

Himachal Pradesh government’s proposal to allow construction in Green Belts of Shimla has invited ire of environmentalists and a section of residents of Shimla town. The State Cabinet on October 11 had given nod to a proposal of the state government to amend Shimla Development Plan (SDP) for allowing construction in the Green Belts of Shimla…

HP Cabinet allows construction on plots without trees in Shimla Green Belt

Himachal Pradesh Cabinet has decided to amend Shimla Development Plan by allowing construction in Green Belt area above Navbahar- to the church road and above Lakkar bazaar to IGMC Sanjauli Chowk road, besides allowing construction in the Green Belt area on plots not having trees. The Cabinet meeting presided over by Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu…

Himachal government to go for caste census in the state

After a political debate generated in the country by the caste census in Bihar, the Himachal Pradesh government led by the Congress party is going to conduct a caste census in the hill state. As a reply to Hindutva politics of Prime Minister Narendra Modi led BJP government in the coming parliament election the Congress…

Assembly Election in five states between November 7 and 30

The Election Commission of India (ECI) has announced Assembly election schedule for five states i.e. Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Chhattisgarh, Telangana and Mizoram.  As per the election dates announced by the ECI on Monday  the voting in all five states would be held between November 7 and 30 while the  counting of votes would be undertaken on…

HP college teacher’s association elects first women president

Dr Banita Kumari Saklani has been elected as the first woman president of the Himachal Government College Teacher’s Association (HPGCTA) in the election held for the association . She polled 827 votes against her nearest rival Sanjay Kumar Jasrotia . Two  candidates Satish Kumar and Surender Singh for the post of senior vice president, polled  868…

BBN Industries Association donates Rs 2.02 crore in Apda Rahat Kosh

The Baddi-Barotiwala-Nalagarh Industries Association has donated Rs 2.02 crore towards Apda Rahat Kosh. A delegation of the association led by its president Rajiv Aggarwal and general secretary YS Guleria presented a cheque of the donation to Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu in his office at Shimla on Friday. Thanking the association for this noble gesture…

Strict laws for raising buildings will be enforced to save people from disasters – CM

Himachal Pradesh government is considering to enforce  stringent laws for construction to keep people safe during natural calamities in the state. Speaking while inaugurating a two day workshop ‘Challenges of the Geological Hazards in Western Himalayan Region of Himachal Pradesh ‘ at Shimla on Thursday, the CM said , “ the government will impose laws…

Two accused involved in Rs 18 crore crypto currency fraud arrested by SIT

The Special Investigation Team (SIT) constituted by the state government to investigate crypto currency frauds in Himachal Pradesh, have arrested two accused  Hem Raj  Rajput and Sukhdev Thakur  belonging to Mandi district, from Gujarat two days back.   The accused are allegedly involved in collecting nearly Rs 18 crore in crypto currency frauds and deceiving…

Two days conference on science and technology concludes at Naduan college

First international conference on Recent Trends in Science and Technology for Environment Conservation and Sustainable Development was organized on September 29 and 30th at Sidharth Government College Nadaun. The conference was inaugurated by Professor Dr. MK Mattoo, former Head Bio Sciences Department of HPU Shimla.  Dr. Bhagwati Sharma convener of the conference said, “The objective of…

Centenarians honoured on International Day for Older Persons

A programme was organized to honour all centenarians of district Mandi on Sunday to observe the International Day for Older Persons. A district level function was organized by the Social Justice and Empowerment Department and District Red Cross Society Mandi. Deputy Commissioner Mandi  Arindam Choudhary  Chief guest of the function speaking on the occasion said…

HP govt announces relief package of Rs 4500 crore for disaster affected people

Himachal Pradesh government has announced a special relief package for disaster affected people of the state with a total spending of Rs 4500 crore, out of which Rs750 crore would be spent on restoration , rehabilitation and Rs 1000 crore to generate employment under MNREGA . Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu while talking to media…

Himalayan Niti Abhiyan deputation submits expert committee report to HP Governor

A six member deputation of Himalaya Niti Abhiyan representing several organizations submitted a report prepared by experts on causes and effects of recent natural calamity in Himachal Pradesh to HP Governor Shiv Pratap Shukla at Shimla on Friday. Coordinator of the organization Guman Singh said, “We have demanded declaring the Himachal calamity as a National…

Online mental health counselling service launched in Himachal

Himachal Pradesh health department has launched a comprehensive mental health care service to provide universal online access to equitable, affordable and accessible mental health care. Launching the online service named as ‘Tele MANAS’ at Shimla on Thursday, Health and Family Welfare Minister Dr Dhani Ram Shandil said, “The service would be available round the clock…

Two more flights to start soon on Kullu- Amritsar and Kullu – Shimla airways

To improve air connectivity in Himachal Pradesh, two more air flights to connect Kullu- Shimla and Amritsar are being launched by Alliance Airlines. The flights on Kullu-Amritsar-Kullu airway are scheduled to commence on October 1 and operate thrice a week on Monday, Wednesday and Friday. The flight on Shimla-Amritsar-Shimla airway would start its operation on…

BJP holds protest rally against Congress government

The Himachal Unit of BJP held a protest demonstration at chaura maidan Shimla, attended by party activists on Monday to highlight failures of the Congress government in the state. Addressing the gathering former Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur said, “The real face of Congress, which came to power by misleading the public by making false…

Ashrey Sharma holds lack of vision responsible for present state of affairs in Himachal

Ashrey Sharma, Congress candidate from Mandi parliamentary constituency during the last election, has blamed lack of long term vision by political leaders of the state for the present state of affairs in Himachal Pradesh. Sharma, grandson of former Union Communication Minister Sukh Ram, talking to media persons at Mandi on Monday said, “Though several stalwarts…

CRC Sunder Nagar organizes camp for rehabilitation education of mentally ill

The Composite Regional Center (CRC) Sunder Nagar organized a two days camp on rehabilitation education at its center. In-charge of the CRC Dr Shatrughan Singh said, “Assistant Professor of Psychiatry department of PGIMER Chandigarh Dr Krishan Kumar Soni was chief guest in the camp which was attended by 77 participants from different parts of the…

Three days Shimla International Film Festival begins

The three days, 9th International Film Festival of Shimla was inaugurated by Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu on Friday at Gaiety Theatre. Filmmakers from 20 countries and 22 States of India are participating in the festival, including the United States, Belgium, Iran, Canada, China, Czech Republic, Turkey, Nepal, Egypt, Bangladesh, Italy, Poland, Argentina, Sweden, Afghanistan, Australia,…

State Govt. contemplating legalizing cannabis cultivation in Himachal

Himachal Pradesh government is seriously contemplating to legalize cultivation of cannabis and take away the ban on its illegal farming in the state. The cultivation of cannabis and possession of it’s by -product charas is a serious crime at present and cases registered under Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Act (NDPS) Act to check its smuggling…

State Govt blames financial mismanagement and reckless expenditure by previous BJP Govt for poor economy

Deputy Chief Minister Mukesh Agnihotri blamed, “Financial mismanagement by previous BJP government, huge debt, reduction in plan size of the state , little help from the NDA government, reckless opening of large scale institutions before last Assembly election in the state for political gains , reckless expenditure on investors meet and exorbitant spending on Amrit…

Power Finance Corporation to give loans of Rs 118826 crore to Satluj Jal Vidyut Nigam

Power Finance Corporation (PFC) has agreed to give loans of Rs 1, 18826 crore to Satluj Jal Vidyut Nigam (SJVN) to finance solar, thermal and hydro & pumped storage power projects. Chairman –cum- Managing Director of the SJVN Nand Lal Sharma said, “The PFC and the SJVN have signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) under…

CM accuses previous BJP government for ignoring state’s interest by giving benefits to certain power companies

Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu has warned the Hydro Power Projects authorities, including public sector undertakings, to comply with the new power policy of the state government or face cancellation of their agreements with the state government. Replying to a question on vacillation of certain power companies in regard to new power policy of the…

Prof. Ashok Chakradhar regales audience in Kavya Sandhya at IIT Mandi

Popular poet and thinker Padamshri Prof. Ashok Chakradhar said Hindi language faces no threat to it in future and would grow further. Addressing audience at the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Mandy auditorium on Monday in a Kava Sandhya  hosted by Hindi Cell of the institute as a part of Rajbhasha Pakhwara, Prof. Chakradhara said…

Environment and social organizations demand action against NHAI and certain power projects

Several environmental and social organizations have demanded filing of criminal cases against National Highway Authority and managements of Hydro Power companies responsible for their alleged negligence for aggravating effects of recent monsoon fury in the state. Talking to media persons at  Mandi on Sunday,  Guman Singh, Sandeep Minhas, Joginder Walia, BR Kaundal, Narendra Saini  under…

Six students of Nerchowk Medical College suspended for three months for ragging freshers’

The authorities of Shri Lal Bahadur Shashtri Medical College Nerchowk have suspended six (2022 batch) students found involved in two incidents of ragging in the college for three months. Principal of the College Dr DK Verma said, “Two incidents of alleged ragging were reported in the institute on September 15, 2023; the meeting of anti-ragging…

Five family members booked for allegedly chopping hair of a lady

The Hamirpur police have booked five members of a family under Bhoranj police station for allegedly chopping hair of a lady and blackening her facea few days back. SP Hamirpur Akritii Sharma said, “This incident had come to her knowledge through social media wherein family members of lady were seen chopping her hair and parading…

“BJP should tender apology for opening institutions without infrastructure”- Congress spokesman

The state spokesman of Himachal Pradesh Congress Committee Prem Kaushal has demanded an apology from BJP leaders for opening educational institutions without infrastructure and adequate staff for political considerations. In a press conference at Mandi on Friday he said, “The previous BJP government in the state opened so many institutions without proper infrastructure and staff…

HP Cabinet decides to establish Rajya Chayan Aayog replacing HP Staff Selection Commission

Himachal Pradesh Cabinet has given approval to establish Himachal Pradesh Rajya Chayan Aayog to conduct examinations for the recruitment of various Group-C posts in the state government, PSUs, Boards, Corporations and Local Bodies, replacing HP Staff Selection Commission Hamirpur. The meeting held at Shimla on Thursday and presided over by Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu…

LPG distributors oppose exorbitant interest rates charged by HPCL

The  Distributors Federation of India ( LPG operating throughout the country has strongly opposed the decision of management of Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Limited (HPCL) to charge exorbitant interests on payments due from them under new credit policy. In a joint letter sent to the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas the Distributors Federation has  urged…

IIT researchers develop AI based technique to asses age of bridges

The Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Mandi has developed an advanced Artificial Intelligence (AI) based signal processing technique for accurate prediction of structural health of bridges and other structures in collaboration with  French scholar Dr Laurent Mevel working with the Inria Research Center in Rennes University  (France )  .” The researchers say, “The research is…

Priyanka Gandhi urges to declare recent calamity in Himachal as National Disaster

Congress General Secretary Priyanka Gandhi has urged the Central government to declare massive damages during recent monsoon fury in Himachal as National Disaster and help the state government generously for giving relief to affected people, besides carrying out restoration work. The Congress leader said this after visiting calamity hit areas of Kullu and Mandi districts…

CPM demands resignation of Director of IIT Mandi for hurting feelings of people of Himachal

Himachal Pradesh State Committee of CPM has demanded resignation of the Director of Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Mandi Prof. Lakshmidhar Behera for linking meat eating habits of people of the state with natural disasters. In a letter written to the IIT Director, copies of which have been sent to Union Human Resource Minister and HP…

CM congratulates for winning Swachh Vayu Sarvekashan Award

Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu has congratulated people of Himachal Pradesh, for two industrial towns of the state i.e.  Parwanoo and Kala Amb winning prestigious Swachh Vayu Sarvekshan 2023 national award. The CM said, “Winning award was possible due to responsible and environmentally conscious tourism, the active cooperation of local communities and the coordinated, sustained…

IIT Mandi director invites ire for his remarks linking meat eating habit in Himachal with natural disasters

The Director of Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Mandi Professor Lakshmidhar Behera has invited the ire of rational thinkers, scientists and environmentalists for his remarks “blaming meat eating habit of people of Himachal for landslides in the state”, demanding his removal from the post. The IIT Director has made controversial remarks while addressing students of…

State government to soon authorize panchayats to regulate construction in rural areas

Himachal Pradesh government is taking steps to control all construction activity in rural areas as large scale construction activity is going on in the periphery of tourist places and upcoming commercial centers, besides other places.  The state government would soon empower panchayats to regulate construction activity in the rural areas for which the Department of…

IIT Mandi authorities suspend 10 B.Tech students involved in ragging for six months

The Institute of Technology (IIT) Mandi authorities have suspended ten B.Tech students for six months and taken disciplinary action against all 72 students found involved in ragging of junior students of the institute. An official of the institute in a press statement said, “A few days back an incident of ragging of junior students by…

Former Shimla Deputy Mayor reiterates to register FIR against NHAI

Former Deputy Mayor of Shimla Tikender Singh Panwar has demanded action in his complaint against National Highway Authority of India (NHAI) and GR Infra Construction Company for allegedly committing serious lapses in construction of Parwanoo – Solan National Highway, leading to massive landslides during the recent monsoon rains. Panwar, a prominent CPM leader, had filed…

State government to set up Rajya Chayan Aayog

Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu has announced to set up Rajya Chayan Aayog replacing the Staff Selection Commission (Hamirpur) within next two months to ensure fairness in the selection criteria of candidates.  Speaking at Nadaun on Monday the CM said, “The state government is committed for bringing transparency in the recruitment process by…

Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi to visit Himachal Pradesh

Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi would visit Himachal Pradesh before September 10 to meet rain affected people of the state. A congress source said, “The exact programme of Priyanka Gandhi is being finalized, she has proposed to visit the state in the first week of September to meet the rain affected people to interact with them…

Three trucks burnt near Pandoh on Mandi Kullu national highway

Three trucks laden with goods were burnt completely and one person was injured   on Mandi- Kullu national highway at nine mile near Pandoh on Saturday evening. A police source said, “As per preliminary information the incident happened at 7 pm when the diesel tank of a truck carrying goods caught fire resulting in massive fire;…

HP government bans cutting of hills for two weeks

Himachal Pradesh Government has put a complete ban on cutting of hills except for rebuilding roads and buildings damaged during the recent monsoon in the state.  A spokesman of the state government said,” The state government has put a complete ban on cutting of hills for all construction activity including by private persons in the…

Former CM condemns decision to curtail extent of SPU Mandi

Former Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur has strongly condemned the decision of HP government to curtail the extent of Sardar Patel University (SPU) Mandi . In a press statement the former CM said, “This is a very unfortunate decision and fraught with ill will; the state government cannot open a new university but is allegedly…

HP government ropes in a French government agency for disaster management

The Himachal Pradesh Government has prepared a disaster risk reduction and preparedness programme involving a French Government agency the Agency Francaise de Developpement (AFD). This programme would start from April 2024 and the state government would be spending Rs 890 crore on the project for five years to equip the state in disaster preparedness and…

Former Professor of HPU Dr MK Sharma passes away

Former Head and one of the founding members of Master of Business Administration and Commerce department of Himachal Pradesh Professor MK Sharma passed away at his residence in Noida on Tuesday morning. He was not keeping well for some time and died of age related problems. Professor Sharma remained dean and Director of School of…

HP Assembly session to be convened from September 18 to 25

The monsoon session of Himachal Pradesh Assembly would be convened from September 18 to 25. Giving this information while interacting with media persons at Shimla on Monday Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu said , “The monsoon session of the HP Assembly would be held from September 18 to 25 having seven sittings,  devastating effects of…

HP government to integrate forest and police check posts

Himachal Pradesh government has decided to integrate police and forest department’s check posts to stop timber smuggling in the state. The decision was taken in a meeting presided over by Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu at Shimla on Sunday. The CM also emphasized the need of installation of advanced technology, including CCTV surveillance at the…

Fifty one villagers rescued by NDRF team in Mandi district, IAF helicopter deliver essential items

A team from National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) rescued 51 people stuck in Kholanala panchayat after cloud burst and heavy rain on August 22 and 23rd in Bahli Chowki Subdivision of Mandi district on Friday.  Sub Divisional Magistrate Bahli Chowki had received information a cloud burst near Hanogi temple had cut off links to Shesnu Gouni…

Four multi storied buildings collapse in Ani , two more bodies recovered in Summer Hill

Four multistoried buildings crumbled like houses of cards in Ani bazaar (in Kullu district) on Thursday morning. Fortunately there was no loss of human life as the buildings were declared unsafe by local administration after cracks had appeared in the buildings. The offices of Kangra Central Cooperative Bank and State Bank of India were located…

Five die due to heavy rain during past 24 hours in Mandi district

At least five persons have lost lives in Mandi district during the past twenty four hours due to heavy rain, landslides and flash floods while two persons are missing. Several buildings including school buildings have been damaged; two national highways i.e.  Chandigarh – Manali  and Pathankot – Manali have been blocked due to landslides at…

HP Cabinet reduces lease period for new Hydro Power Projects to 40 years

The State Cabinet expressed grief over massive loss of government and private property and paid tributes to people losing lives during the recent flash floods and landslides in the state. The meeting presided over by Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu decided to amend Swaran Jayanti Energy Policy by singing new MOU for Hydro projects for…

Fresh spell of heavy to very heavy rain predicted in Himachal from August 22 to 25

Masuam Vigyan Kendra Shimla of The Indian Meteorology Department has predicted a fresh spell of heavy to very heavy rains in many parts of Himachal, beginning tomorrow i. e from August 22 to 25. As per information shared by the center on its official website the possibility of isolated spells of heavy to very heavy…

Nerchowk medical college professor and his team unfurl National Flag at 20100 feet on Independence day

Professor Sandeep Kalia, Head of Orthopedics Department, Shri Lal Bahadur Shashtri Medical College Nerchowk and his teammates have added another feather to their hat by unfurling the National Flag on Independence Day at Mount Yunus in Lahaul and Spiti district at the height of 20100 feet.   A team led by Dr Kalia, which had…

Himachal government declare the whole state as natural calamity affected area

Himachal Pradesh government has declared the entire state as a natural calamity affected area. Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu said, “In the wake of colossal damage to life and property during the recent rain fury triggering massive landslides and floods the state government has taken a decision to declare Himachal Pradesh as a natural calamity…

Himachal yet to receive first installment of interim relief from the Central government – CM

Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu said, “The Himachal Pradesh government is yet to receive the first installment of Rs 315 crore towards interim relief from the Central government.” While interacting with media persons at Sarkaghat after visiting rain affected areas of Sarkaghat on Thursday the CM said, “ Rs 180 crore were released to the…

327 die in natural calamities in Himachal Pradesh during devastating monsoon from June 24 to August 16

As many as three hundred twenty seven people have lost their lives in different parts of Himachal Pradesh from June 24 to August 16 as the state faced one of the worst natural calamities during the current monsoon season as per date released by disaster management cell of Revenue department of the state. Thirty eight…

Fifteen injured as HRTC bus falls near Kangu (Sunder Nagar)

Fifteen passengers travelling in a HRTC bus were injured on Saturday morning when the portion of Dehar – Kangu road caved in. The incident occurred at about 6.30 am near Soar village on Dehar – Kangu road . A Sunder Nagar depot bus had left from  Sunder Nagar  bus stand for Shimla via Dehar when…

Six die and five injured in a road accident near Tissa in Chamba district

Six persons including five police personal lost thier lives in the road accident in Churah Assembly constituency of Chamba district on Friday morning when a Tata Sumo hit by a boulders plunged into Siul river near Tarwai on Bairagrh – Tissa road.   A Tata Sumo was carrying a police petroling  party of eleven including driver…

Trade unions hold protests against policies of the Central and the State government

Protests by a united forum of trade unions and national federations throughout Himachal Pradesh at district levels were held on Wednesday against the alleged anti people policies of the Central and the state government. Hundreds of workers marched through bazaars of Shimla, Mandi, Hamirpur, Kullu, Chamba , Una and other districts raising slogans against the…

Rs 110 crore released to restore roads in the apple belt – CM

Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu said Rs 70 crore would be spent for strengthening Chhaila- Yashwant Nagar road, considered a lifeline of people as an alternative route to Chandigarh via Solan . The CM during his tour of Chopal area to take stock of losses caused during rains on Tuesday said, “ The state government…

Lok Sabha membership of Rahul Gandhi restored

Lok Sabha membership of former AII India Congress Committee (AICC) president Rahul Gandhi was restored on Monday by the Lok Sabha secretariat after which Rahul Gandhi MP representing Waynad constituency attended the ongoing session of the parliament.   It is notable the Supreme Court of India had put a stay on conviction of Rahul Gandhi…

HP CM hails Supreme Court’s order of staying Rahul Gandhi’s conviction

Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu has welcomed the Supreme Court of India’s decision of granting stay on conviction of former AICC president and senior Congress leader Rahul Gandhi in a defamation case by a court in Gujarat. Rahul Gandhi was convicted for two years by a court in Gujarat in a defamation case filed by…

HP High Court issues notice to Attorney General of India over concern in construction of Chandigarh – Shimla NH

Himachal Pradesh High Court has issued a notice to the Attorney General of India expressing serious concern on digging of hills and reports of poor quality of works in construction of roads and tunnels for buliding four lane highways in the state. Acting on a public interest litigation (PIL) filed in the High Court, a…

Environmentalists demand inquiry headed by a High Court judge in alleged violations in construction of National Highways

Several organizations working for protection of  environment and ecology of Himachal Pradesh have demanded a high level inquiry headed by a former judge of HP High Court in the alleged unscientific cutting of hills and illegal dumping of muck in Beas River. Talking to media persons at Mandi today,  Guman Singh representing Himalyan Niti Abhiyan…

Central government to release Rs 400 crore for restoration work in HP – Nitin Gadkari

( Union Minister Nitin Gadkari and HP CM taking stock of damages during the recent floods ) Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari took stock of the losses occurred during the recent monsoon fury in Kullu and Manali area on Tuesday. Accompanied by HP Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, the Union Minister…

Three sworn in as HP High Court Judges

Ranjan Sharma, Bipin Chander Negi and Rakesh Kainthla were sworn in as the Judges of the Himachal Pradesh High Court on Monday. Himachal Pradesh Governor Shiv Pratap Shukla administered the oath of office to the newly appointed judges at Raj Bhawan Shimla. The proceedings of the oath ceremony were conducted by Chief Secretary Prabodh Saxena. The Union Ministry of…

NHAI authorities under attack of environmentalists after filing of criminal police complaint

The National Highway Authority of India (NHAI), engaged in construction of four lane projects in Himachal Pradesh, has come under the attack of environmentalists after filing of a police complaint against the NHAI  holding it responsible for losses during flash floods in the state by carrying unscientific cutting of hills and illegal dumping in rivers….

Nitin Gadkari to visit flood affected areas of Kullu – Manali on August 4

Union Surface Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari would visit Kullu –Manali on August 4, to take stock of losses to Chandigarh –Manali National Highway and other flood affected areas. Former Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur, who met the Union Minister in New Delhi recently to apprised him about heavy losses in the state during…

Kullu district administration issues alert in wake of overflowing of water in Malana project

Type The Kulu district administration has issued an alert to people living in down stream of Malana stage 1 and stage 2 hydro power projects in view of overflowing of water from reservoir of Malana 2 power project. Deputy Commissioner Kullu said, ” It has been reported by Malana stage 2 Hydro Power Project authorities…

Vikramaditya Singh lashes out at a bureaucrat of his own government

Son of six times former Chief Minister Virbhadra Singh, Public Works Development (PWD) Minister in Himachal Pradesh government Vikramaditya Singh has warned a bureaucrat of the state government, without naming him, “Not to cross lakashman rekha.” Talking to media persons at Shimla in HP secretariat on Saturday, the minister said “I hold bureaucracy in very high esteem…

Leftist Organisations submit memorandum to President of India for her intervention in stopping violence in Manipur

Several Leftist organizations today held a protest demonstration at Seri Manch Mandi on Friday  against unabated violence continuing in North Eastern state of Manipur. The members of Democratic Youth Federation of India (DYFI), Janwadi Mahila Samiti(JMS), CITU and All India Lawyers Union raised slogans condemning the violence in Manipur and also submitted a memorandum to…

112 tourists including 14 foreigners rescued by SDRF from Parvati valley

One hundred twelve tourists including fourteen foreigners, stranded in Parvati valley of Kullu district for the past several days after the recent rains, have been rescued safely by Kullu police with the help of SDRF in Himachal Pradesh. Superintendent of Police Kullu Sakshi Verma said, “As many as one hundred twelve tourists tracking in Parvati…

One dies and ten injured in a blast in Shimla

The owner of Plaza restaurant of Shimla has reportedly died after being injured in a blast in middle bazarr Shimla on Tuesday evening .  According to an information the incident occured at about 7 pm when a massive blast near Ground Zero and Himachali Rasoi eateris created panic in the Middle bazaar area of Shimla. …

State government to ensure weight based sale of apples

Himachal Pradesh government has decided to ensure weight based sale of apples in the state during the ensuing apple season. Horticulture Minister Jagat Singh Negi after a meeting with the representatives of the apple growers, traders, commission agents and government officials at Shimla on Tuesday said, “Since there is a great demand of Himachal apples…

Services of 1844 employees recruited during COVID -19 pandemic extended till September 30

Himachal Pradesh government has extended the services of 1844 employees of different categories, recruited during COVID -19 pandemic in different health institutions of the state for three months till September 30, 2023. Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu said, “The services of 1844 employees working in different health institutions of the state have been extended till…

Finger raised at a large number of wooden logs seen floating with slush at Thunag

As environmentalists and local people have raised finger on a large number of timber logs seen floating along with gushing slush  in Thunag bazaar,  after a cloud  burst in the area during the recent rain fury in the state on July 10,  the working of forest department has come under the scanner of the state…

Seventy thousand tourists evacuated, essential service restored in 80 percent areas – CM

 Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu said, “The state government safely evacuated around 70 thousand tourists stranded in Himachal Pradesh for the past several days and the state government gave priority to bring back tourists to safer places.” He said, “The rescue operations were started in the flood affected areas on a large scale and it…

Former CM Jai Ram Thakur criticizes the state government for raising VAT on diesel

Former Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur has accused the state government for not doing enough for relief and restoration work for the flood affected people of the state. Talking to media persons at Mandi on Saturday, Thakur said, “Several areas are still waiting for relief work to begin as administration has failed to provide drinking…

Supreme Court collegium recommends three names for elevation as HP High Court Judges

The Supreme Court of India Collegium has recommended names of two lawyers and a juridical officer of Himachal Pradesh for appointment as High Court Judges. Names of two lawyers Ranjan Sharma and Bipin Chander Nagi and judicial officer Rakesh Kainthla have been recommended for elevation as judges in Himachal Pradesh High Court. Ranjan Sharma and…

BJP national president JP Nadda visits rain ravaged areas of Mandi and Kullu districts

National president of BJP Jagat Prakash Nadda visited rain ravaged areas of Mandi and Kullu district on Friday. Accompanied by Union Information and Broadcasting Minister Anurag Thakur and former HP CM Jai Ram Thakur, Nadda visited Panchvaktra temple on the banks of river Beas, Pandoh bazaar in Mandi district and Bhuntar and Manali in Kullu…

Five die and three injured in a road accident in Mandi district

Five persons lost their lives and three others were injured in a road accident on Sunder Nagar – Kateru road near Ghidi when a Bolero Jeep no HP 31- 8349 rolled down a gorge in Bhalana Khud on Friday morning. A police source from BSL colony Police Post Sunder Nagar said, “Lala Ram (50), Roop…

Two hundred fifty six tourists rescued from Chandertal Lake in Lahaul- Spiti by rescue teams led by the revenue minister

Two hundred fifty six tourists stuck up at Chandratal Lake in Lahaul – Spiti district of Himachal Pradesh after incessant rain , were rescued on Thursday by rescue teams under the supervision of  Revenue Minister Jagat Singh Negi and  Chief Parliamentary Secretary Sanjay Awasthi . Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, who is touring the rain…

Nearly thirty thousand tourists leave as traffic restored on Manali – Chandigarh route

Thousands of tourists stranded in Kullu- Manali and Lahaul –Spiti district for the past several days due to road blocks at several places, after incessant rains in the state continuing since July 8, were evacuated on Wednesday. However efforts are being made to bring back 293 tourists stuck up at Chandratal Lake in Lahaul –…

Clear sky helps in relief and restoration work in Himachal ; Air Lifting of tourists abandoned due to snowfall

Respite from incessant rains and a clear sky on Wednesday came as a big relief to a large number of people affected by flash floods and fury of rains in Himachal Pradesh,  as the state government mobilized all its resources to beef up relief and restoration work. The state government, which has sought the help…

Incessant rain wreaks havoc in Himachal Pradesh, disrupts normal life

With incessant rain still continuing in Himachal Pradesh for the fourth consecutive day on Monday, all rivers are flowing over danger mark posing constant threat to many important bridges, houses located on the banks and several power projects.   Normal life throughout the state has been adversely affected as electricity, drinking water facility and internet services…

Prime Minister Narendra Modi talks to HP Chief Minister as 17 die due to incessant rain

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday called Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu over the phone and inquired about the extent of the damages caused to life and property due to heavy rains and floods in Himachal Pradesh. The CM said, “I informed him the state has been severely affected by floods and heavy rainfall,…

Five die as car falls in a gorge near Nimand (Kullu)

Five persons died on Monday morning when a car in which they were travelling rolled down a hill several hundred meters in deep gorge at Devdhank on Kedas road in Nimand sub division of Kullu district of Himachal Pradesh . The victims travelling in a private car no HP- 35 -4332 were on their way…

No credible information about disappearance of SFJ leader in the US, issuing threats to former HP CM

Though nearly 72 hours have elapsed since the self-proclaimed separatist leader of Sikh for Justice (SFJ), Gurpatwant Singh Pannnu disappeared in the United States, there is yet no credible and official information about his whereabouts. Pannu had disappeared from New York and unconfirmed reports in social media about “ his killing in a car accident”…

CM greets the Dalai Lama on his 88th birthday

Chief Minister, Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu extended warm greetings to Tibetan spiritual leader, the Dalai Lama, on his birthday at Mcleodganj on Thursday and also felicitated him on the occasion.   The CM said, “People of the Tibetan community and Himachal Pradesh have had a close relationship for the past 75 years and harmonious relationships…

CM virtually lays foundation stone of police station at Shahpur

Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, virtually laid the foundation stone of a modern police station at Shahpur, from Chandigarh on Wednesday.  The CM was scheduled to inaugurate the police station, being constructed with the cost of Rs five crore but the state government chopper couldn’t take off from Chandigarh due to bad weather….

Adventure by a Shrikhand Yatri takes his life

Adventure by a man to take Shrikhand Yatra in Kullu district of Himachal Pradesh, before its official commencement on July 7, proved fatal for him resulting in his death. Rakesh Sharma, son of Thakur Das, a resident of village Gharkoti of Bilaspur district died at Bheem Dwari on way to Shrikhand peak. As there is…

Ex-servicemen hold statewide protest demanding implementation of ORP

Ex-servicemen in Himachal Pradesh have once again started raising their voice against the Central government for implementation of One Rank One Pension (ORP) scheme. Hundreds of ex-servicemen held a state wide protest and observed a day long fast in Himachal Pradesh on Sunday demanding removal of anomalies created by implementation of ORP. President of Ex-servicemen…

Himachal Governor asks IIT Mandi to help the state in checking forest fires

Himachal Pradesh Governor Shiv Pratap Shukla said, “The ongoing G20 – S20 meet at IIT Mandi would provided a platform for  delegates from the public and private sectors to come together and explore potential knowledge sharing opportunities to address societal development with technological interventions.” Addressing the conclave on Technology for Society at the institute today…

Monsoon rains claims 9 lives in Himachal Pradesh

Nine people have lost thier lives in flash floods and 14 persons have been injured after the onset of monsoon in Himachal Pradesh on June 24, besides causing a loss of property of Rs 104 crores” .Principal Secretary Revenue and Disaster Management Onkar Chand Sharma gave this information on Tuesday at Shimla.Meanwhile Indian Meteorological Center…

Thousands stranded on Mandi- Kullu ( Manali) national highway due to landslides

Thousands of vehicles were stuck on Mandi – Kullu (Manali) national highway as landslides caused by heavy rains during the past two days gave harrowing time to thousands of tourists and other passengers struck since Sunday night. As a large number of tourists had to spend the night in their vehicles, thousands of vehicles were…

Deputy CM asks IIT Mandi to become technology partner of Himachal Government

Himachal Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Mukesh Agnihotri has emphasized on the need to take technology to ground level and asked the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Mandi to become technological partner of the  state and help in developing technologies for several practical problems being faced by the state government . Addressing the conclave on Skill…

A PWD labourer dies near Pandoh

A  labourer working with the Public Works Department died on Saturday near Pandoh on Chandigarh – Manali National Highway. A police source said, “Dumanu Ram (47), a resident of village Haton near Mandi, was trying to clear a drain on the highway along with other labourers when a boulder hit him after a landslip at…

Two tourists on way to Leh die

Two tourists have lost their lives, after complaining of low oxygen while heading towards Leh from Manali in two separate incidents. SP Lahual –Spiti, Mayank Chaudhary said, “Aditya (32) belonging to Tohana ((Haryana) and Kabala Singh (48) from Jammu and Kashmir, have died due to high altitude sickness resulting into lack of oxygen.” He said,…

Conclave at IIT Mandi emphasizes on Holistic approach to health

One day conclave on Holistic Health as part of G20-G- Science meet being organized at IIT Mandi has emphasized on sustainable and holistic approach to life and human health. Majority of the experts talked about integrating our ancient wisdom with modern research in view of a large number of mental stress issues. Dr. Laxmidhar Bahera,…

Larji Dam authorities alert locals and tourists not to venture into River Beas on June 25 and 26

All the spillway gates of Larji Dam situated in Mandi district would be opened by the Dam authorities on June 25 and 26th from 6 am to 6 pm for clearing silt deposit.  Senior Executive Engineer of Himachal Pradesh State Electricity Board Limited (HPSEBL) Thalot,  Ajay Thakur has alerted , “ People living  between Larji Dam…

G-20- S-20 meet begins at IIT Mandi with sessions and lectures on Yoga

The G20 – S20 meet began at Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Mandi on Wednesday.  The opening day was devoted to Yoga, also being celebrated International Yoga Day today; live Yoga sessions, penal discussions and technology demonstration to celebrate physical and mental benefits of Yoga were organized in the IIT campus. Chairman of Board of…

HP Cabinet decides to expand Kangra Airport for operation of A -320 aircraft

Himachal Pradesh Cabinet has decided to conduct screening tests for those posts through HP Public Service Commission, which couldn’t be conducted by Himachal Pradesh Staff Selection Commission, Hamirpur. The Cabinet meeting held at Shimla on Monday and presided over by Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu also decided to start land acquisition process for expansion of…

Chief Minister accuses BJP for politicizing murder

Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu has accused state BJP leaders for politicizing the murder of a youth in Chamba district. In an informal chat with the media persons expressing his displeasure over the protests by BJP, the CM said, “This is the first case of its kind where all the accused have been…

IIT Mandi to organize G20- ( Science 20 ) meet

The Indian Institute of Technology (IIT), Mandi will organize the G20-S20 (Science 20) meeting from June 21 to 30 at the IIT campus. A spokesman of the institute said, “The main purpose of the meet is to bring together key stakeholders and experts to engage on various themes like renewable energy, holistic health and skill…

In a gruesome murder young man cut to pieces in remote area of Chamba district

In a gruesome murder, a young man belonging to Bhandal panchayat in Salooni area of Chamba district was cut to several pieces by his killers on June 9. A police source said, “Manohar (25) was hacked to death in a remote area and his killer cut him into several pieces to hide these into a…

Former CM Jai Ram Thakur welcomes JP Nadda

National BJP president JP Nadda was accorded a warm welcome by former CM Jai Ram Thakur and other BJP leaders, on reaching Kangni helipad on Tuesday. BJP leaders, who were present to welcome Mr. Nadda, included state BJP president Rajiv Bindal, MLAs Anil Sharma, Rakesh Jamwal, Inder Singh Gandhi, DS Thakur, Vinod Kumar and district…

IIT Mandi researchers establish relationship between drought and elevation

A team of researchers from Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Mandi has studied the relationship of elevation with the characteristics of drought in the Indus River Basin and has gathered valuable data  for climate adaptation strategies and water management in this region. The findings of the research have been published in the Journal of Atmospheric…

CM and Deputy CM mourn death of veteran journalist DP Uniyal

Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu and Deputy CM Mukesh Agnihotri have mourned the death of veteran journalist Dwaraka Prasad Uniyal, who passed away at his residence in Vikas Nagar (Dehradun) on Sunday. Mr Uniyal, who was founder editor of popular Hindi weekly Himalayan Times, was a known face of journalism in the state and published…

Two die in road accidents in Una district

Two persons died on Sunday in separate road accidents in Una district. A scooter rider died after being hit by a bus while in another accident a worker was crushed by a Hydra Machine. A scooter rider Padam Sharma (75) resident of Basal died after being hit by a Haryana Roadway bus on Chandigarh –…

New Education Policy may deprive a large number of girls from Education – former Dean of DU

Former Dean of Delhi University and Executive Member of Bharat Gyan Vigyan Samiti (BGVS) Dr. Anita Rampal said, “Children are not dropping out from schools in India but they are being pushed out of schools.” Speaking in a seminar organized on New Education Policy (NEP) by BGVS at Mandi on Saturday Dr Rampal warned, “If…

Central government to develop Chitkul, Nako and Pooh under vibrant village scheme – Union Power Minister

Union Minister for Power RK Singh said a Central government public sector undertaking will adopt Chitkul village and assist the state government in developing it as a vibrant village. Addressing a gathering at Chitkul on Thursday the minister  said, “ The vibrant villages programme is an initiative of the Central Government to strengthen infrastructure facilities in…

HP government releases Rs 4.5 crore to HRTC, Leh – Delhi bus service begins

Himachal Pradesh government has released an amount of Rs 4.5 crore to Himachal Road Transport Corporation (HRTC) for paying liabilities of employees of the corporation.   Deputy Chief Minister Mukesh Agnihotri said, “The state government is making every effort to settle liabilities of the corporation employees and an amount of Rs 4.5 crore has been…

HP Cabinet decides to fill up 69 posts of Jail Warders

Himachal Pradesh State Cabinet has decided to constitute a committee to hold discussion with the power developers on water cess levied by the state government, headed by Secretary Power and having representatives from Jal Shakti, Finance and Law departments.  The meeting presided over by CM Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu has also given approval to start primary…

CITU hold demonstration at Shimla demanding restoration of benefits to workers

A large number of workers under the banner of Centre of Indian Trade Unions (CITU) held a protest near HP Secretariat Shimla on Monday demanding restoration of benefits given to workers by the State Labour Welfare Board. The workers affiliated to MGNREGA and Construction Workers Unions carrying banners and flags marched to HP Secretariat and…

Reduction in borrowing limit may impact economic situation in Himachal Pradesh

The reduction of the borrowing limit of the Himachal Pradesh government by Rs 5500 crore by the Central government is going to further impact the economic situation of the state. The cash strapped state government is already reeling under severe economic stress and finding it difficult to meet its routine expenses. The decision being termed…

Doctors end pen down strike after meeting Chief Minister

Himachal Medical Officers Association (HMOA) has withdrawn their ongoing pen down strike with immediate effect after assurance from Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu in a meeting at Shimla on Saturday. The CM assured the office bearers of the association the Non practicing Allowance (NPA) for medical officers has not been abolished but has been withdrawn…

Forty four bus passengers injured near Rohru in Shimla district

Forty four bus passengers were injured in a bus accident near Dhamwadi (Rohru) in Shimla district on Friday morning after a HRTC bus was hit on a hillock by the driver in an effort to save the passenger at Adhuni Khad. An official of HRTC Rohru Vimlesh said, “ The HRTC bus no HP10A- 6851…

May wettest month in Himachal since 2004

The month of May has been recorded as the wettest month in Himachal Pradesh since 2004. As per data released by Indian Metrology Department (IMD) centre Shimla the cumulative rainfall during May 2023 was recorded 116.8 mm, which was 84 percent higher above the normal (compared to the normal average of 63.3 mm). In April,…

Thirty five injured in a bus accident near Karsog

Thirty five passengers traveling in a Himachal Road Transport Corporation (HRTC) bus were injured on Thursday morning near Karsog in Mandi district..   The HRTC bus no HP03-6211 was on its way from Karsog to Mahdi when the driver lost control over it at about 10.15 am near Deuri Dhar and it rolled down a…

CM urges Union Finance Minister to relax loan raising limit

Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu has urged the Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman to review the decision of imposing a limit on seeking new loans under externally aided projects. The CM after meeting the finance minister at New Delhi said, “Reconsidering the decision would help the state in carrying development in various sectors and sought…

Justice Ramchandra Rao sworn in Chief Justice of HP High Court

Justice Mamidanna Satya Ratna Sri Ramachandra Rao was sworn in Chief Justice of the Himachal Pradesh High Court on Tuesday. Justice Rao was administered the oath of office by Himachal Pradesh Governor Shiv Pratap Shukla at Raj Bhavan Shimla. Chief Secretary Prabodh Saxena conducted the proceedings and read out the Warrant of Appointment issued by…

CM urges Union Power Minister to transfer Shanan power project to HP

Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu called on Union Minister for Power R. K. Singh at New Delhi on Monday and urged him to take steps for handing over of Shanan Hydro Power Project to the state government after expiry of its lease to Punjab government. He said, “The project located at Joginder Nagar in Mandi…

BSNL launches TV channel service for broadband users

The Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL) launched IPTV service at Mandi on Monday which would provide TV network facility to users of consumers having fiber broadband connections.  Talking to media persons on the occasion Chief General Manager of BSNL Himachal Pradesh JS Sahota said, “This would be an additional facility provided to the consumers without…

CM urges the Central government to return funds deposited under NPS in the Niti Aayog meeting

Himachal Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu has urged the Central government to issue directions to Pension Fund Regulatory and Development Authority (PFRDA) to return the amount of Rs 9,242.60 crore deposited under the New Pension Scheme (NPS) by the State Government. Attending the meeting of the 8th Governing Council of NITI Aayog at New Delhi on Saturday while…

Former CM Jai Ram Thakur demands restoration of NPA

Former Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur has strongly condemned the decision of Himachal Pradesh government to withdraw Non Practicing Allowance (NPA) for Doctors recruited in the state government hospitals and demanded its restoration. Talking to media persons at Mandi on Saturday he said, “The NPA for the doctors serving in the state government hospitals was…

Traffic between Mandi and Pandoh on NH closed between 12-30 to 3-30 am till June 21

Mandi district administration has decided to close traffic on KIratpur- Manali four lanes from Mandi to Pandoh during night between 12-30 to 3-30 am till June 21st. Deputy Commissioner Mandi Arindam Chaudhary said,” The traffic going towards  Manali and coming to Mandi would be diverted via Katindi- Kataula road at night during this period.”  He…

Himachal Medical Officer’s Association strongly condemns stopping of NPA

The Himachal Medical Officer’s Association (HMOA) has  strongly condemned the stopping of Non Practicing Allowance (NPA) by the state government to the doctors in the state. Condemning the decisions of the state government the office bearers of the HMOA said, “The finance department of the state government has already issued a notification to this effect…

CM assures HPSEB employees to implement OPS

Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu has assured the Himachal Pradesh State Electricity Board Limited (HPSEBL) employees to cover them under the Old Pension Scheme (OPS). He said, “The employees of the state have played a very important role in development of the state and the state government would ensure the HPSEBL employees are included in…

Former CM Jai Ram Thakur demands inquiry into allegations against an officer working with the CMO

Former Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur has demanded an inquiry into allegations leveled against an officer working in Chief Minister’s  Office (CMO),  through an anonymous letter. Thakur in an informal chat with the media persons at Circuit House Mandi on Tuesday said, “A controversy has cropped up after allegations against an officer working with the…

Successful trial of five tunnels on Kiratpur – Manali Four Lane project conducted

The National Highway Authority of India (NHAI) carried out a successful trial of five tunnels constructed on Kiratpur – Manali National Four Lane Project between Hanogi and Jhalogi.   Deputy Commissioner Mandi Arindam Chaudhary said, “The trial of five tunnels was carried out jointly by the NHAI and Mandi district administration after a tweet by…

Thirteen passengers injured in a road accident near Ponta Sahib

Thirteen passengers travelling in a Pickup Vehicle were injured in a road accident on Sunday near Ponta Sahib in Sirmour district. All the injured were taken to Civil Hospital and five of the seriously injured have been referred for further treatment. The passengers belonging to Vikas Nagar area (Dehradun) were coming back from Renuka when…

People from different walks of life attend cremation of Hem Kant Katayan

Veteran journalist Hem Kant Katayan was cremated at Hanuman Ghat, Mandi on Sunday morning. The funeral pyre was lit by his son Sidharth . People from different walks of life attended his funeral including Mandi based journalists. Mr Katayan had passed away on Saturday night after a massive heart attack. Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu…

Supreme Court allows felling of khair trees in Himachal

The Supreme Court of India has permitted felling of khair trees on government forest land in 10 forest divisions of the Forest Department of the state. This could be a big relief to the Himachal Pradesh government making efforts to mobilize additional sources for the state. Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu said, “The state government…

Veteran journalist Hem Kant Katayan passes away

Veteran journalist Hem Kant Katayayan passed away on Friday night at Mandi. Mr Katayan had worked for more than four decades as a journalist here. His family source said, ” He felt uneasiness at about 2 am and was taken to Zonal Hospital Mandi, where he collapsed due to massive heart attack.” He had joined…

Kangra tea gets GI registration with the countries of European Union

The Kangra tea has become the second product of the country to get Geographical Indication (GI) registration from the European Union.   The registration with the European Union (EU) as a protected Geographical Indication (GI) has paved the way for the sale of the product in European countries.  Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu said, “The…

State Cabinet decides to fill up 5291 posts of teachers

Himachal Pradesh Cabinet has decided to fill up 5291 posts of teachers i.e. 1070 posts of TGT (Arts), 776 (Non Medical) and 430 (Medical), 494 Shashtri and 2521 posts of JBT. The Cabinet Meeting presided over by Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu held on Wednesday at Shimla  has also decided to fill up 28 posts…

State government trying to strengthen rural economy -CM

Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu said the state government is trying to strengthen the rural economy. Addressing a gathering in the concluding function of two day Sipur fair at Mashobra on Tuesday the CM announced, “The state government would buy ten litres cow milk from each farmer at Rs 80 per litre and buffalo milk…

District Legal Service Authority Mandi appoints Six lawyers to defend cases of poor people in courts

The District Legal Service Authority (DLSA) Mandi has appointed six lawyers practicing in Mandi courts as Legal Aid Defense Councils (LADC) under the modified LADC scheme. The councils have been appointed by the DLSA to defend cases of poor people who can’t afford to engage lawyers for their pending cases in the district court. Abhishek…

Surender Chauhan elected Mayor and Uma Kaushal Deputy Mayor of Shimla Municipal Corporation

Surender Chauhan and Uma Kaushal were unanimously elected Mayor and Deputy Mayor respectively of Shimla Municipal Corporation on Monday. Both were elected without a contest since the Congress has a clear majority with 24 councilors, BJP has nine councilors and CPM one, in the house of 34. The election was held today after the oath…

State government working to turn the state into an industrial hub – CM

Himachal Pradesh government is making every effort to make the state industry friendly and several schemes have been launched to provide best facilities under ease of doing business to entrepreneurs coming to the state. Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu is trying hard to develop the state into a favorite destination for investment and the state…

Mandi lad bring laurels for Himachal – gets admission in Tata Institute of Fundamental Research

A lad from remote Basehar village under Nauhli panchayat in Joginder Nagar Sub Davison of Mandi district, Abhay Bhardwaj has brought laurels to the area and Himachal Pradesh by getting selected in the Tata Institute of Fundamental Research (TIFR) Mumbai to pursue a five years Integrated PhD course in the Homi  Bhabha Centre for Science…

Priyanka Gandhi visits Rajiv Bhawan to celebrate landslide win in Karnataka Election

Priyanka Gandhi, General Secretary of All India Congress Committee, holidaying at her Chharabra house with her mother Sonia Gandhi , visited Rajiv Bhawan, the Himachal Pradesh Congress Committee Office at Shimla to celebrate landslide win in Karnataka Assembly Election after declaration of results on Saturday. Speaking on the occasion she said, “The victory in Karnataka…

Justice Tarlok Chauhan inaugurates Legal Aid Counselling Center at Mandi

Acting Chief Justice of Himachal Pradesh High Court Justice Tarlok Singh Chauhan Mandi inaugurated the Legal Aid Counseling Center set up under National Legal Services Authority at Mandi and Civil Judge Court Padhar on Saturday. Supervising the proceedings of Lok Adalats at Mandi and Padhar, Justice Chuahan said, “A provision has been made to provide…

IIT Mandi kick-starts Yuva Sangam programme

The Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Mandi kick started the Yuva Sangam programme on Friday at the institute campus in Kamand. Talking to media persons the Director of IIT Mandi Prof. Laxmidhar Behara said, “Yuva Sangam is a cultural and academic exchange programme launched by the Central government under EK Bharat Shreshtha Bharat scheme.” “Under this programme…

Mandi district BJP president demands disciplinary action against former BJP MLA

Ranbir Thakur Mandi District BJP president has strongly condemned the accusations against the party and senior leaders by former MLA Jawahar Thakur.   Talking to media persons at Mandi on Friday he said , “ Two days back former BJP MLA Jawahar Thakur made unfounded and baseless accusations against the senior party  leaders which is…

Congress leader’s son booked for reportedly crushing a school girl to death

An eight years old school girl was crushed to death by a speeding jeep reportedly driven by the son of a Congress leader, on Chandigarh – Manali National Highway near Tarot village under Dhanotu police station of Mandi district. Deputy Superintendent of Police Sunder Nagar Dinesh Kumar said , “ The school girl Akshita crossing…

Seven school students become unconscious after gas leakage in chemical plant near Una

At least seven school students fell unconscious on Thursday in Sanoli, Vinewal, Puna and Majra areas adjoining Santoshgarh of Una district after a pungent gas started oozing from a chemical plant. Chief Medical Officer Una Dr SK Verma said, “On Thursday morning at about 9 Am a few students fell unconscious after complaining difficulty in…

CM exhorts students to make people aware about the role of Congress and its sacrifices

Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu has exhorted young students to make children aware about the role of the Congress during the Independence movement and sacrifices made by Congress leaders. Inaugurating the first National convention of Jawahar Bal Manch he said, “The organizations like Jawahar Bal Manch can play a pivotal role for the unity of…

Former BJP MLA blames the state government and BJP organization for defeat in 2022 Assembly election

Former BJP’s Darang MLA Jawahar Thakur blamed the previous BJP led state government and the party organization for the defeat of the party in the 2022 Assembly election. Holding the state BJP leadership responsible for the BJP’s defeat, Thakur while talking to media persons at Mandi on Wednesday said, “The party dominated by ABVP was…

Students stranded in violence hit Maniprur meet the CM after reaching New Delhi

The students from Himachal Pradesh studying in Manipur, stranded in the violence hit state, reached New Delhi on Monday evening and called upon Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu  at Himachal Bhawan . Thanking the CM for his personal intervention in bringing them back from the troubled state they also appreciated his gesture for bearing the…

CM mourns death of soldiers killed in militant attack

Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu has mourned the death of Naik Arvind Kumar and Paratrooper Pramod Negi, two soldiers of the state, who lost their lives fighting militants in Rajouri sector of Jammu & Kashmir on Friday.  Arvind Kumar was a resident of Maroonh village in Kangra district and Pramod Negi belonged to Shillai area…

Two army soldiers of Himachal killed in operation against terrorists in J&K

Two army soldiers belonging to Himachal Pradesh have reportedly been killed in a terrorist attack in Rajouri sector of Jammu and Kashmir on Friday morning. Pramod Negi from Shilai area of Sirmour district and Arvind Kumar of Dhira panchayat in Kangra district have been killed in the attack as per a report. Both the soldiers…

CM flags off four vehicles for quick response during natural calamities in Lahaul – Spiti

Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu flagged off four vehicles to be used for rescue operations and quick response in the event of any natural calamity or emergency during winters in the tribal district of Lahaul –Spiti. Four Gurkha jeeps donated by the ICICI Foundation under CSR would be quite helpful for quick response to move…

Congress proves its grip on voters in Shimla Municipal Corporation

The Congress has once again proved its mettle in Shimla, the capital of Himachal Pradesh, by sweeping Municipal Corporation (MC)  Election, results of which were declared on Thursday . Further consolidating the position of Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, who took oath on December 11, 2022, the Congress candidates won in 24 of 34 MC…

Himachal Cabinet decides to give Rs 1500 per month to women of Spiti valley

Himachal Pradesh Cabinet has decided to give Rs 1500 per month as Indira Gandhi Mahila Samman Nidhi to eligible women over 18 years of Spiti valley including nuns and Chhomos . The decision to this effect was taken in the Cabinet meeting presided over by Chief Minister Sukhvider Singh Sukhu , held at Shimla on…

Congress and BJP working hard to take control of Shimla Municipal Corporation

The ensuing Shimla Municipal Corporation (MC) election to elect 34 councilors, polling for which would be held on Tuesday, have gained importance as both ruling Congress and opposition BJP are trying their best to capture the prestigious  and oldest Municipal Corporation of India.   The Congress party, which snatched power in Himachal Pradesh from the…

State government decides to regularize service of contract employees completing two years

Himachal Pradesh government has decided to regularize the services of contractual employees completing two years of their service on March 31st.  As per notification issued by the state government, services of daily wage workers completing four years of service on March 31st 2023 would also be regularized. The employees completing two years service on September 30,…

CM emphasizes on use of technology in judicial system

Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu has emphasized the need of use of technology to bring transparency, productivity and efficiency in the judicial system. Addressing a gathering after inaugurating North Zone –II Regional Conference on  ‘Contemporary Judicial Development and Strengthening Justice through Law and Technology,  at Shimla on Saturday the CM also stressed on use of…

Fire damage new OPD building of IGMC Shimla

A fire broke out at the Indira Gandhi Medical College  Hospital (IGMC) here on Thursday after two cooking gas cylinders exploded in the cafeteria, leading to the evacuation of hundreds of patients from the New OPD building. The fire has caused a loss of over Rs 60 lakh but hundreds of patients present in the…

Terming water cess as illegal and unconstitutional by the Central government is a big blow to HP government

Terming the water cess levied on hydro power generation in Himachal Pradesh  by the Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu government as ‘illegal’ by the Central government,  has come as a bolt from the blue and  dashed the hopes of the state government to mobilize additional funds for the cash strapped state . Himachal Pradesh government, which is under heavy…

SHO Nadaun and two officials suspended on being found drunk

Three police officials including Station House officer (SHO) of Nadaun have been suspended by the Superintendent of Police (SP) Hamirpur, after being found in inebriated condition during an inspection by the SP. SP Hamirpur Dr. Akriti Sharma said, “During a sudden inspection of Nadaun Police Station on Tuesday night SHO Nadaun Yog Raj Chandel and…

World class medical facilities will be available in state medical colleges – CM

Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu said, “The state government is introducing robotic surgery in Shimla, Tanda, Nerchowk and Hamirpur Medical Colleges, besides latest PET and CT scan facilities would be provided at  Shimla and Tanda.”   Addressing the audience after giving degrees and internship certificates  to first batch students of MBBS in annual convocation…

Rajiv Bindal appointed Himachal state BJP president

BJP national president JP Nadda has appointed Rajiv Bindal as president of HP state BJP. The office order to this effect was issued on Sunday by BJP office New Delhi. State BJP president Suresh Kashyap had resigned from the post of state BJP president on Saturday. Bindal, who represented Solan and Nahan Assembly constituencies five…

HP CM meets Haryana CM

Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu met his Haryana counterpart Manohar Lal Khattar at Chandigarh on Saturday and held discussion with him on different issues. During the discussion the HP CM said, “The water cess levied by the state government on hydro power generation in the state would not result in any loss to Haryana as…

State BJP president Suresh Kashyap resigns

Himachal Pradesh BJP president Suresh Kashyap has resigned from the post of party president . A BJP spokesman confirmed about tendering his resignation letter to National BJP president JP Nadda and said, “Since Kashyap is also MP from Shimla constituency he was finding it difficult to find time for his constituency along with his organizational…

President given warm send off

The President of India, Smt. Droupadi Murmu was given a warm send off at Kalyani helipad, Mashobra on Friday, after completion of her four days tour to Shimla. Himachal Pradesh Governor Shiv Pratap Shukla and Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu were present on the occasion. HP Assembly Speaker Kuldeep Singh Pathania, Health Minister Dr. (Col.)…

President of India awards degrees in HPU convocation

The President of India, Smt. Droupadi Murmu presented Gold Medals to 10 meritorious students including seven girls, during the 26th Annual Convocation of Himachal Pradesh University (HPU) Shimla. As many as 99 Students were awarded Ph. D. degrees, including 59 females, besides giving Gold Medals to 111 meritorious students.   Addressing the audience on the…

President of India gets rousing welcome during her Shimla visit

The President of India Droupadi Murmu was given a rousing reception on her arrival at Kalyani Helipad, Mashobra in Shimla on Tuesday .  Himachal Governor Shiv Pratap Shukla and Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu accorded a warm welcome to the President at Kalyani helipad. The family members of the President are also accompanying her. Speaker, Himachal…

Ace mountaineer Baljeet Kaur haling from Solan, rescued in Nepal

Ace mountaineer Baljeet Kaur, has been brought back safely from Mt. Annapurna (Nepal) and stated to be fine. Baljeet Kaur is an international level mountaineer and hails from Solan district. She has scaled Mt. Everest and other difficult mountains. Unfounded reports of “her losing life” in a mountain expedition were circulated on a few social…

CM announces 3 percent DA for employees on Himachal Day

The 76th Himachal Day function was held at Kaza in Spiti sub-division of Lahaul & Spiti district .Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu unfurled the National Flag and took salute from marching contingents of Police and Home Guards.Adreesing on the occasion the CM announcedto give 3 percent DA allowance to state government employees, pensioners and announced…

HP Cabinet decides to fill up 530 posts of school lecturers

Himachal Pradesh Cabinet presided over by Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu has decided to fill up 530 posts of school lecturers in different subjects through direct recruitment. The cabinet also gave its nod to amend Himachal Pradesh Town and Country Planning Rules -2014 allowing attic floors constructed in the houses, habitable. The Cabinet approved the…

Survey team suggests shifting of Airport project from Balh valley to Jahu

The final Social Impact Assessment (SIA) report submitted by SR Asia Team to Himachal Pradesh government has given a major jolt to the proposed Greenfield Airport in Balh valley of Mandi district since the team has suggested not to build the Airport here and find possibilities of shifting it to Jahu in Hamirpur district, on the…

State government to give loans for higher studies at nominal interest-CM

Himachal Pradesh government has launched Mukhyamantri Vidyarthi Yojna to give educational loans to students unable to pursue higher and professional studies due to lack of resources. Under the scheme, starting from the current financial year, the eligible students would be given loans on a nominal interest of one percent belonging to families having income of…

Governor visits orphan center at Dehar

 Himachal Pradesh Governor Shiv Pratap Shukla said , “ There is no Godly work than serving humanity as service to mankind gives you such a great feeling and happiness which no other service can give”.   The Governor said this after visiting Divya Manav Jyoti Sewa Samiti at Dehar on Monday. During his maiden tour…

Nine shops and houses gutted in fire at Banjar

In a major fire incident at Banjar in Kullu district, nine shops and four houses were gutted on Monday morning, causing an estimated loss of Rs 2 crore. According to information the flames were noticed at about 2 am after which fire tenders were requisitioned from Larji to douse the flames. Deputy Commissioner Kullu Ashutosh…

Former CM Jai Ram Thakur alleges step motherly treatment with Mandi district

Former Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur has accused the state government for the alleged step motherly treatment with Mandi district. Talking to media persons at Mandi on Monday he said, “The state government and certain Congress leaders are trying to defame Sardar Patel University by leveling unfounded allegations of irregularities in recruitment of faculty members…

State government initiates to launch mobile clinics for veterinary services

 Himachal Pradesh government has taken a new initiative to provide quick treatment and medicines to cattle of farmers of the state through mobile clinics. The state government has launched a project named Sanjeevani through which nearly 4.41 million livestock would be treated at the door steps of the farmers, saving their time and money. A…

CRC Sunder Nagar plans to provide artificial limbs on the spot to disabled persons

The Composite Regional Center (CRC) Sunder Nagar would soon have  on the spot facility to manufacture artificial limbs for persons with disability at its center.   In –charge of the CRC Dr. Shatrughan Singh said, “The center, which is working for skill development and rehabilitation of persons with disabilities, would soon have facility to provide…

Budget session of HP Vidhan Sabha concludes

The budget session of Himachal Pradesh Assembly concluded at Shimla on Thursday. Talking to media persons Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu said, “HP government has passed legislation in the budget session in the larger public interest despite negative approach of the opposition BJP like adoption of orphans by state government to support them and introduction…

IIT Mandi invites applications under student’s exchange programme

The Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Mandi is organizing a student exchange programme for students of Himachal Pradesh and Ladakh between the ages of 18 and 30 years. Giving this information Dean of Students of the IIT Mandi Dr. Hitesh Shrimali said, “The student exchange programme is a unique opportunity for the students of Himachal…

CM announces to reconstitute HP Staff Selection Commission Hamirpur

Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu has announced to reconstitute Himachal Pradesh Staff Selection Commission (HPSSC) Hamirpur to start recruitment process for filling up nearly three thousand government posts. Making a statement on the floor of Himachal Pradesh Assembly on Wednesday the CM said, “On the recommendation of the committee constituted to look into  irregularities in functioning…

CM to preside over Himachal Day function at Kaza on April 15

Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu will preside over the Himachal Day state level function on April 15 at Kaza in Lahaul -Spiti district. Speaker of HP Assembly  Kuldeep Singh Pathania will attend the district level function at Chamba, Deputy Chief Minister Mukesh Agnihotri at Nahan, Health and Family Welfare Minister Dr. (Col.) Dhani Ram Shandil at …

Election for Shimla Municipal Corporation on May 2nd

Himachal Pradesh state election commission has decided to hold an election for 34 wards of Shimla Municipal Corporation (MC) on May 2nd.   As per the notification issued by the commission on Monday the nomination papers would be accepted on April 13, 17 and 18 between 11 am to 3 pm, the scrutiny of nomination…

IIT Mandi AP gets Prof. Satish Dhawan Young Engineers Award

Dr Mrityunjay Doddamani of the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Mandi has been awarded the Prof. Satish Dhawan Young Engineers Award in the Engineering Science category. The award was given to Dr Mrityunjay by Chief Minister of Karnataka Basavaraj Bommai at the Indian Institute of Science Bangalore recently in recognition for young scientist making significant…

Water cess would not affect the neighbouring states- CM

Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu has clarified the water cess levied by Himachal Pradesh government would not affect the neighbouring states economically as this would be levied on Hydro power generation only and not on water released from the state.In a joint press conferece after holding discussion with his counterpart Punjab CM Bhagwant Mann at…

Mukesh Agnihotri hurt

Himachal Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Mukesh Agnihotri was admitted in Indira Gandhi Medical college Shimla on Tuesday evening after he was injured near his official residence at Shimla.As per an information Agnihotri was walking near his residence when he fell down and got hurt.Medical Superintendent of the IGMC, Sita Thakur said, ” Mr Agnihotri is…

HP government signs MOU for Rs 4000 crore Green Energy Project

 The Himachal Pradesh government signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) for the Green Hydrogen and Green Ammonia Project with HLC Green Energy LLC on Tuesday. The MOU for Rs 4000 crore project was signed in the presence of Industries Minister Harshwardan Chauhan by Director of Industries, Rakesh Prajapati and Managing Director of HLC Green Energy, Sanjay…

Parents demand enactment of law to regulate private schools

The parents of students studying in private schools have once again demanded formation of a regulatory commission by the state government to check the alleged practice of frequent increase in tuition fees, charging annual charges etc, besides recurrent change of schools dresses and books. The parents have been agitating against managements of private schools for…

Labourer dies after getting buried under debris

A labourer  lost his life after being buried under debris near Malori on Friday evening. The labourer Rajesh Kumar (33) belonging to Banog village of Balh tehsil engaged by Satya KMC for widening of Chandigarh –Manali four lane project was working at Malori site near Mandi when the incident occurred. As per information the deceased…

Chief Minister and Congress MLAs protest disqualification of Rahul Gandhi from Lok Sabha

The Congress MLAs in Himachal Pradesh Assembly staged a demonstration in the Assembly premises on Friday to protest disqualification of Rahul Gandhi from the membership of the parliament, after his conviction and imprisonment for two years by a Surat Court in a defamation case. The Congress MLAs, Cabinet Ministers led by Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh…

DYFI activists take out torchlight procession to observe 92nd Martyrdom Day of Shaheed Bhagat Singh

The activists of Democratic Youth Federation of India (DYFI) took out a torchlight procession in Mandi town to observe 92nd martyrdom day of Shaheed Bhagat Singh, Sukh Dev and Raj Guru on Thursday . The state president of the DYFI Suresh Sarwal said, “ On March 23rd in 1931 Shaheed Bhagat Singh , Raj Guru and  Sukh…

Save the Blue to conserve the Green- CM

Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu emphasized on bringing a behavioral change in water usage and its management and there is need to save the Blue for conserving the Green. Speaking at a state level World Water Day function at Shimla on Wednesday he said, “According to a report forty percent of the population would experience…

Departmental Exams for IAS and other categories postponed

Himachal Board of Departmental Examinations, Shimla has postponed departmental exams for IAS, HPAS and other categories of Gazetted and no-Gazetted posts scheduled to be held from April 3, have been postponed and now will be conducted from May 16 to 24.    As per a communique issued by the Board the admit cards of the…

Balh Bachao Sangharsh Samiti urges Chief Minister to shift the proposed Airport

A delegation of Balah Bachao Kisan Sangharash Samiti met Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu in HP Assembly on Tuesday to appeal to him not to build the Greenfield Airport on fertile land in Balh valley. The delegation led by executive president of the Samiti Prem Dass Chowdhary urged the CM to shift the Airport project…

State government to earn nearly Rs 2800 crore by auctioning liquor vends – CM

Himachal Pradesh government will earn Rs 2800 crore by auctioning retail liquor vends in the state during 2023-24 under the new excise policy.  Making a statement in the HP Assembly on Monday Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu said , “ The state government would earn Rs 2800 crore  during the year 2023-24 through auctioning of retail…

Four die in car accident near Minus

Four car borne passengers lost their lives on Sunday after their car plunged into Tons river on Himachal –Uttrakhand border near Minus. “Those killed in the accident have been identified as Sandep (34) , Amarjeet (36) both from Chopal, Praveen (28) and Mohit (28) belonging to Nerwa”, said a police source. A real cause of…

CM appeals to observe the Earth Hour on March 25

Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu has appealed to the people of the state to be part of ‘Earth Hour’ on March 25  by   switching off no-essential lights of their homes and surroundings from 8.30 pm to 9.30 pm. He said the earth hour is being celebrated this year under the theme of ‘The Biggest Hour for Earth’…

HP Chief Minister presents Rs 53413 crore budget for 2023- 24 , announces several new schemes and wage increase for different sections

Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu presented first budget of the Congress government for 2023-24 with total budget outlay of Rs 53, 413 crore; estimated receipts of Rs 37,999 crore and estimated of Rs 42,704 crore with a revenue deficit of  Rs 4704 crore and a fiscal deficit of Rs 42,704 crore. . Out…

COVID-19 death reported in SLBSMC Ner Chowk

A death from COVID -19 has been reported from Shri Lal Bahadur Shastri Medical College (SLBSMC) Ner Chowk on Thursday. Dr Joginder Thakur Medical Superintendent of the college said, “A 70 years male patient suffering with co -morbidity was referred from Kullu to the SLBSMC and tested COVID-19 positive. The patient was suffering from arrhythmia,…

Heated discussion on the second day of Budget session of HP Assembly

The second day of Himachal Assembly’s  Budget session also started with a stormy note as members of the opposition BJP pressed for a discussion on closure of 632 institutions opened by the previous BJP government in the state.   The BJP members brought an adjournment motion under rule 67 demanding discussion on the issue. The…

BJP stages walkout on the opening day of Budget session of HP Assembly

The Budget session of Himachal Pradesh Assembly began with a stormy note with the opposition BJP MLAs staging a walk out demanding discussion on withholding of MLA development fund (vidhayak nidhi) .   As soon as the session began after paying obituaries, BJP MLA Vipin Pramar raised the point of order by taking up adjournment…

State government to give uniform allowance of Rs 600 in government schools from Class 1 to 8

Himachal Pradesh government has decided to give Rs 600 as a uniform allowance for the government school students studying from Class 1 to 8 for providing them school uniforms. Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu said, “The amount would be transferred to Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) to accounts of the mothers of the students benefiting nearly…

BJP holds protest rally at Mandi to oppose closing of institutions

The Leader of Opposition and former Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur has termed Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh “not a Lokpriya CM but a Lockpriya CM (not popular but CM putting lock on institutions’ ‘. Addressing a BJP protest rally organized at  Seri Manch Mandi  on Saturday to oppose de- notification of the institutions opened by previous BJP…

CM to meet general public daily at HP Secretariat from 6 to 7 PM

Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu would meet the general public and various delegations at Himachal Pradesh Secretariat Shimla daily from 6 to 7 PM. A spokesman of the state government said, “The CM would meet general public on Tuesday and Friday between 9 and 11 am at his official residence the Oakover, party workers on…

Balh Bachao Sangharsh Samiti urges the CM to shift Airport project to Jahu

The Balh Bachao Sangharsh Samiti has demanded shifting of Greenfield Airport project from Balh valley of Mandi district to some other satiable place. Talking   to media persons at Mandi on Saturday President Joginder Walia, working President Prem Lal and secretary Nand Lal  of the samiti said, “A Social Impact Assessment Report (SIAR) undertaken for the Airport project…

As many as 289 buildings to be demolished by March 19 for constructing four lane highway – DC Mandi

Mandi Deputy Commissioner Arindam Chaudhary informed the National Highway Authorities of India (NHAI), the district administration has identified 289 buildings which would be demolished before March 19 for constructing four lane projects. Interacting with the officers of revenue, electricity, Jalshakti departments and the NHAI officials through a video conference, he said, “The district administration had…

State gets approval for Shimla -Mataur and Pathankot- Mandi four- lane highways – CM

 Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu said strengthening road connectivity in the state is the priority of the state government and the National Highway Authority of India (NHAI) should expedite work on four –lane projects. Presiding over a review meeting at Shimla on Thursday the CM said, “The state would cooperate with the NHAI in every…

Governor seeks report on outbreak of jaundice in Nauni university

Himachal Pradesh Governor Shiv Pratap Shukla has sought a report from Vice Chancellor of Dr YS Pramar Horticulture and Forestry University Nauni, on outbreak of jaundice at the university hostels. Taking cognizance of the rise in jaundice cases the Governor has directed the VC to submit the report immediately, during his meeting with the VC…

Five killed and four injured as Innova driver crush nine migrant labourers near Dharampur (Solan)

Nine migrant labourers were crushed by an Innova driver near Dharampur in Solan district on Tuesday morning killing five of them on the spot and seriously injuring four others. The incident occurred at about 10 am in the morning on Solan –Parwanoo national highway, when a driver of a taxi Innova (HP2A1540) coming from the…

HP Cabinet gives nod to Excise Policy for 2023-24

Himachal Pradesh Cabinet has given nod to new Excise and Taxation Policy of the state for 2023-24. The Cabinet meeting presided over by Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu gave approval to auction-cum-tender of retail excise vends for 2023-24 to enhance revenue, reduce liquor price and curb smuggling from the neighboring states It decided to sell…

CM announces to construct a new bus stand at Sujanpur

 Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu announced the construction of a new bus stand at Sujanpur and said, “Himachal would become the country’s most prosperous state in the next ten years “. Addressing a gathering after inaugurating the cultural evening of Sujanpur holi festival on Sunday evening, the CM greeted people on the occasion and said,…

The four day Holi festival begins at Sujanpur

The four-day festival of Holi at Sujanpur began on Sunday with enthusiasm and cultural tradition, which was inaugurated by Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu. The CM paid obeisance at Murli Manohar temple and also participated in a shobha yatra (religious procession) along with a large number of prominent citizens wearing colourful turbans.  The CM inaugurated…

CM exhorts youths to popularize culture and traditions of Himachal

Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu exhorted youths of the state to preserve the culture and folk traditions by displaying these at national level and abroad. Addressing a gathering in a function organized by Himachal Students Union in  Punjab University auditorium at Chandigarh on Sunday he said, “ Himachal is known for its unique cuisines, culture and…

State government to partner with Indian Business School to develop bio- energy

Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu said the state government is set to partner with Indian Business School (ISB) to develop the bio-energy sector in the state. Holding a meeting with Executive Director of the ISB Prof. Ashwani Chatterji at Shimla on Saturday, he said, “The state government is starting a pilot project on bio-energy production…

FIR registered against Uma Azad for leaking question paper of drawing teacher’s test conducted by HPSSSC Hamirpur

The Vigilance & Anti Corruption Bureau ( V&CB) Hamirpur has registered third FIR in paper leak case against a suspended employees of the Himachal Pradesh Pradesh State Staff Selection Commission ( HPSSSC) Hamirpur and others for allegedly selling question paper of screening test conducted by the Commission for recruiting drawing teachers . The third FIR…

HP Cabinet decides to implement OPS from April 1, 2023

Himachal Pradesh government has decided to implement an old pension scheme (OPS) in the state for 1.36 state government employees including all employees appointed in future. This decision was taken in a Cabinet meeting held at Shimla on Friday presided over by Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu and it was decided all employees including those…

CM helps in airlifting two patients from Dodra Kawar

Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu once again helped two serious patients in getting them airlifted from remote Dodra Kawar area, in the state government helicopter for providing them immediate medical help. Immediately after getting information, the CM directed Shimla district administration to get the patients airlifted and provide them medical treatment. The district administration…

CM holds meeting with Electric Vehicle Manufacturers

Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu has asked the electric vehicle manufacturers (EVMs) to develop the state specific electric buses keeping in mind hilly terrain, loading capacity, luggage space and  incorporating modern technology to ensure safety of passengers. In a meeting with the representatives of the EVMs on Thursday at Shimla he said, “To achieve the…

Two burnt alive in a car accident

Two persons travelling in a car were burnt alive and one other injured, after the car in which they were travelling caught fire on Wednesday night at about 11.30 PM near Damela on Padhar – Joginder Nagar via Nauhli road of Mandi district. A police source said, “The burnt bodies of Bhuvan (38) and Sunil…

HP Cabinet decides to bring HPPSC under HP Prevention of Malpractices Act

Himachal Cabinet has decided to bring Himachal Pradesh Public Service Commission (HPSPC) under the ambit of Himachal Pradesh Prevention of Malpractices at University, Board or other Specified Examination   Act -1984 to check any irregularity and ensure fair selection of candidates on merit in a transparent manner. The meeting chaired by Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh…

Twenty Five percent increase in GST collection

  Himachal Pradesh has registered a growth of 25 percent in the state during the month of February. Commissioner, Excise and Taxation Yunus Khan said, “The Goods and Service Tax (GST) collection has registered an increase of 25 percent in the month of February with collection of Rs 337 crore.” He said,” The GST collection…

HIPA extends date for submitting applications for departmental exams

The Himachal Pradesh Institute of Public Administration (HIPA) has extended the date for sending application of departmental examinations from eligible officers/ officials of the various categories like IAS/HAS and Gazette officers of the state government from March 3rd   to March 7, 2023. Secretary, HP Board of Departmental Examinations said, “The last date for forwarding applications by…

Asian Development Bank agrees to give Rs 1311 .20 crore – CM

The Asian Development Bank has agreed in principle to sanction Rs 1311 .20 crore to strengthen tourism infrastructure in the state for funding phase 1 of the proposed development programme.   Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu said, “The state government has been laying special emphasis for making Himachal as the best tourist destination in India…

Chief Minister gives Rs 50 lakh to his old school , honours teachers and class mates

Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu has announced to give Rs 50 lakh for GSSS Chhota Shimla for improving infrastructure. Presiding over the annual function of the school on Tuesday at Shimla, he said, “Education is top priority of the present government and we are taking definite decisions to improve the quality of education and…

CM meets Union Forest Minister to expedite forest clearances

Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu has advocated early forest clearance for speedy development in the state. In a meeting with Union Minister for Environment, Forest and Climate Change Bhupender Yadav in New Delhi on Monday the CM said, “Since many development projects are delayed for a long time for want of forest clearance but…

CBI arrests Delhi Deputy CM Manish Sisodia

The Delhi Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia hs been arrested by a team of the CBI on Sunday in New Delhi after his interrogation for nearly 8 hours  in his alleged involvement in irregularities in Excise Policy of the Delhi government Sisodia, was called for interrogation in the morning and was arrested later. The Aam Aadmi…

HP would fully switch over to e-vehicles by 2025 – CM

Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu said, “The state government is successfully implementing the electric vehicle policy to reduce the carbon emission caused by exhaust fumes of the diesel and petrol vehicles to preserve flora and fauna in the Himalayan region.” Addressing 85th Plenary session of the Congress at Raipur on Sunday he said, “Being a matter…

HP government gets Rs 225 crore for Bulk Drug Park

Himachal Pradesh government has received first installment of Rs 225 crore from the Central government for the development of infrastructure in bulk Drug Park.  The amount has been given by the department of pharmaceutical, Union Ministry of Chemical and Fertilize as grant in aid.  The bulk drug park was sanctioned by the Modi government during…

CM addresses ongoing Congress plenary session at Raipur

Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu while addressing on the second day of 85th plenary session of Indian National Congress at Raipur in Chhattisgarh said, “The state government has restored old pension scheme for 1.36 lakh state government employees of the state in the first Cabinet meeting of the Congress government to fulfill the election promises.” Expressing…

The week long Shivratri festival of Mandi concludes

The week long Shivratri festival of Mandi concluded on Saturday. A jaleb (traditional shobha yatra) was taken out on the last day in which contingents of Police, Home Guards and a large number of deities carried on shoulders of devotees and a large number of dignitersi  marched from Madho Rai temple to Paddal ground. The…

Jai Ram Thakur accuses the CM for allegedly politicizing Shivratri festival

Former Chief Minister Jai RamThakur has criticized Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu for allegedly using the traditional Shivratri festival for launching an attack on his political rivals.  Talking to media persons here on Saturday he said, ” There always has been a tradition to celebrate the Shivratri festival as a people’s festival as a large number…

HP Director General of Police calls on the Governor

Himachal Pradesh Director General of Police Sanjay Kundu called on HP Governor Shiv Pratap Shukla at Raj Bhavan on Friday and apprised him about new initiatives being taken by the state police. The DGP said, “The police have made a comprehensive plan to deploy police for the areas bordering with China after visiting the borders…

IIT Mandi researchers develop algorithm to improve accuracy for landslides prediction

The scientists at the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Mandi have developed an Artificial Intelligence (AI) algorithm to improve prediction accuracy of landslides, rock glaciers, floods, avalanches and permafrost. The algorithm has been developed by Dr. Derricks Praise Shukla, Associate Professor School of civil and environmental engineering and Dr. Sharad Kumar Gupta, former research scholar of…

HP Government disbands HPSSSC Hamirpur

Himachal Pradesh government has disbanded the Himachal Pradesh Staff Service Selection Commission (HPSSSC) Hamirpur with immediate effect. The state government suspended the functioning of the commission some time back when an employee of the HPSSSC was allegedly caught selling a question paper of the scheduled screening test for JOAs selection. Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu…

CM asks to take new initiatives for turning the state green

Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu said,” New initiatives for the restoration of degraded forest lanscpaing in the state would be started.” Presiding over the first meeting of the governing body of Himachal Pradesh State Compensatory Afforestation Fund Management and Planning Authority (HP CAMPA), at HIPA on Tuesday the CM said, ” Instead of raising…

Governor asks Raj Bhavan staff to work with devotion

Himachal Pradesh Governor Shiv Pratap Singh has asked  emphasized the need to work with devotion and mutual cooperation and accomplish the works in a stipulated time. Addressing the staff in an introductory session with the staff at Raj Bhavan on Monday he said, “Every person should understand his duty and should make themselves accountable for…

Dispute between Adani cement company and truckers resolved on intervention of the CM after 66 days

Almost two months old ongoing dispute between the Adani cement companies and Tuck operators Unions was resolved on Monday after agreement between them on freight rate was reached on the intervention of Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu. The Adani cement  companies had closed production in its recently purchased cement plants at Barmana and Darlaghat on December…

HP government to strengthen economy through developing tourism

To strengthen the economy of the state, the state government has prepared a plan to tap tourism potential of the state by developing different sites to attract more tourists. In this regard different activities would be held at different places to attract tourists round the year, besides developing adventure, religious, health and heritage tourism. A…

Shiv Pratap Shukla sworn in Himachal Pradesh Governor

Mr. Shiv Pratap Shukla was sworn in as the 29th Governor of Himachal Pradesh in a ceremony held at Raj Bhawan Shimla on Saturday.  Acting Chief Justice of Himachal Pradesh High Court Justice Sabina administered the oath of office and secrecy to Mr. Shukla. Chief Secretary Prabodh Saxena read out the warrant of appointment. Chief…

HP Cabinet recommends to convene Assembly session from March 14 to April 6

The budget session of Himachal Pradesh Assembly will be held from March 14 to April 6.  The State Cabinet recommended to convene the Assembly session in its meeting held at Shimla on Thursday chaired by Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu.   Thr Cabinet also approved the guidelines of Rs. 101 crore Mukhya Mantri Sukh-Ashray Yojana….

CM cancelles schedule tour to airlft serious patient from Pangi

Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu showing a humanitarian geture cancelled his scheduled tour progamme to offer state government chopper to airlift a seriuos patient from tribal area of Pangi sub division. The CM had recieved a message from Prem Lal , brother of the the paitent who was seriously ill and needed immediate medical help.Since…

State government committed to improve rural economy – CM

Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu said, “The state government fully understands the importance of developing dairy sector to uplift the rural economy of the state and working to purchase milk from the local people and promote cooperatives in this sector.” He said, “The state government intends to improve the monthly income of farmers ranging between…

Shiv Pratap Shukla appointed new Governor of Himachal Pradesh

Mr. Shiv Pratap Shukla has been appointed the new Governor of Himachal Pradesh by President of India Mrs. Dropadi Murmu, replacing present Governor Mr.Rajender Vishvanath Aerlekar who has now been appointed Bihar Governor. Mr Shukla, who is Rajya Sabha Member, hails from Uttar Pradesh and has represented UP Vidhan Sabha four times. Chief Minister Thakur…

Rampur police register complaint in death of a six years old boy

The Rampur police have registered a complaint in the death of a six years old child for ‘alleged faulty injection ‘at Khaneri government health center. Deputy Superintendent of Police Rampur Chandershekhar said, “ In a compliant Semal Singh has alleged his six years old son Arvind suffering from sore throat and cough was taken to…

Deputy CM meets Union Jalshakti Minister

Deputy Chief Minister, Mukesh Agnihotri held a meeting with Union Jal Shakti Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat at New Delhi on Friday and urged him to provide budgetary assistance for an effective and sustainable irrigation network in the state to give impetus to farming. He apprised the minister about the need to strengthen the irrigation network…

Chief Minister meets several Union Ministers to take up development projects

Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu called upon several Union Ministers during his tour to New Delhi to take up various state government projects with the Central government. The CM met Union Tourism Minister G. Kishan Reddy and urged him to include places of the tourists’ interest of the state under next phase of Swadesh Darshan…

Justice Sabina appointed Chief Justice of Himachal High Court

Justice Sabina has been appointed Chief Justice of Himachal Pradesh High Court. Her name was recommended by Supreme Court Collegiums on Tuesday evening.  Acting Chief Justice of the Himachal High Court, Justice Sabina would be the second woman to head HP High Court as Justice Leela Seth, the first woman Chief Justice of India, also…

Four burnt alive in Amb sub-division of Una district

Four children were burnt alive when the house they were sleeping in was gutted in fire on Wednesday night at village Bane di Hatti under Amb sub division of Una district. The children of migrant workers i.e. Neelu (14), Golu (7), Shivam (6), and Sonu (17) lost their lives as the house got completely burnt….

CM lays foundation stone of Himachal Niketan at New Delhi

Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu laid the foundation stone of Himachal Niketan at New Delhi on Wednesday. Speaking on the occasion the CM said, “The five storied Himachal Niketan would be constructed with an estimated cost of Rs 57.72 crore in Dwarka area in the national capital to accommodate students and other people visiting New…

OPS announced after making budgetary Provision – CM

Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu said budgetary provision was made by the state government before announcing Old Pension Scheme and the State Cabinet has given its approval for the scheme after thorough discussion. Talking to media persons at Una on Tuesday the CM said, “The state government is committed to fulfill ten guarantees given by…

CPS stresses on utilization of media for reaching people at grass root

Chief Parliamentary Secretary (CPS) Information and Public Relations (IPR) Sanjay Awasthi stressed upon utilization of various media platforms and to reach to  people through new mediums.  Presiding over a meeting of the IPR department at Shimla on Tuesday, he said, “The department has an important role in taking the policies and welfare schemes of the…

The World Bank team assures support for turning the state Green by 2025

Regional Director, South Asia Region of the World Bank for sustainable development John Roome had a meeting with Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu at Shimla on Monday to discuss the measures suggested in the light of target set by the state government to make the state Green by 2025 with the assistance of the World…

Congress activists hold protest throughout the state demanding JPC probe in Adani exposure

The Congress activists held a protest demonstration at district level throughout state in front of Life Insurance Corporation (LIC) and State Bank of India (SBI) offices on Monday on the call of All India Congress Committee (AICC), demanding probe in the alleged irregularities committed by Adani Group in its share price manipulation as exposed in…

No plan to shelve HIMCARE scheme – CM

Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu has clarified there is no plan to shelve HIM CARE and Ayushman Bharat Yojna in the state. Reacting to former Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur’s statement made at Una on Sunday, he said, “ There is no plan to stop HIMCARE and Ayushman Bharat Yojna in the state as both…

CM warns drug peddlers ; gets warm welcome in his home constituency

Chief Minister Sukhwinder Singh Sukhu has warned to take stern action against drug peddlers in the state. Addressing a public meeting in his Assembly Constituency at Nadaun on Sunday the CM said, “Our government is launching a massive campaign against drugs and drug peddlers as use of drugs is spoiling young generation and it is…

State government launches U-win portal to boost vaccination drive

Himachal Pradesh has launched a U-Win portal to increase immunity among children.The portal has been started by the government as a pilot project in Solan and Sirmaur districts, which would have complete information about vaccination of both mother and child.  This portal has been developed on the lines of Co-WIN portal and would record data…

Justice Karol to take the oath of Supreme Court Judge on Monday

Justice Sanjay Karol has been elevated as Judge of the Supreme Court of India. Justice Karol, at present Chief Justice of Patna High Court hails from Garli village of Kangra district of Himachal Pradesh. Born on August 23, 1961, Justice Karol started practicing in 1986 after studying Law form Himachal Pradesh University. He also remained…

Chief Minister accorded rousing welcome on reaching Hamirpur

Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu was accorded a rousing reception on his maiden visit to his home district, after becoming the CM, at Gandhi Chowk Hamirpur on Saturday.   Addressing a public meeting the CM said, “ It is a matter of pride for people of Hamirpur I have been given an opportunity to lead…

State government to bear cost of treatment of Meenakshi Thakur

he State government will bear the entire cost of treatment of  a  18 years old girl Meenakshi Thakur of Bijahri area suffering from a serious disease. The girl along with her mother met the Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu at Hamirpur on Saturday, after which the CM directed the district administration to immediate measures to…

Rs 900 crore released for SAHARA and HIM-CARE schemes -CM

The state government has released Rs. 900 crore for the smooth implementation of the SAHARA and HIMCARE schemes. While presiding over MLAs priority meeting with legislators of Chamba, Shimla and Lahaul –Spiti on Friday Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu said , “we have not come in power for enjoying power but to change the system…

Himachal to become a Green state by 2025- CM

Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu said, “Himachal Pradesh would become the first state in the country to switch over to electric vehicles and would be a Green state by 2025. Flagging off an electric vehicle at Shimla on Friday he said, “The transport department has taken a lead in switching over diesel and petrol vehicles…

State government decides to withdraw cases registered for violating COVID norms

The state government has decided to withdraw all cases registered against people for violating COVID norms during the pandemic. Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu said,” When the entire world was going through a difficult period during the lockdown many people struggling to meet both ends meals were forced to move out for arranging food, medicines…

CM asks MLAs to plan their priorities for welfare of people

Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu has asked all MLAs to propose development plans of their constituencies keeping in mind good governance and welfare of people. Presiding over MLAs priority meeting at Shimla with MLAs of Kangra district on Thursday the CM said, “The present government is working with a motive to effectively redress public grievances,…

Mixed reaction for the Union Budget in the state, CM terms it artful trickery

There has been mixed reaction to the Union Budget in the state. While Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu and other opposition leaders have termed the Budget as “jugglery of figures” while former Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur and BJP leaders have termed it as historic and pro –people. The CM said,“ The Union Budget 2023-24…

Deploy advance warning system for natural disasters – CM

Himachal Pradesh government has decided to develop an advance warning system in the state. In view of the recent incident of land sinking at Joshimath in Uttarakhand, Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu has directed officers to deploy advance warning systems at strategic locations to warn people about the natural disasters and mitigate the situation by…

State government committed to give Rs 1500 per month to women- Dr Shandil

Health, Social Justice and Empowerment Minister Dr. Dhani Ram Shandil said, “The state government is committed to implement nari samman yojna to empower and strengthen women, socially and economically in a phased manner”. After holding a meeting of the sub-committee constituted by the state government for giving Rs 1500 per month to women as promised…

Governor unfurls the National Flag at Shimla on the Republic Day

The 74th Republic Day was celebrated with gaiety and fervour across the state on Thursday. The state level function was held in Shimla where Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar unfurled the National Flag.  Deputy Chief Minister Mukesh Agnihotri attended the function at Una and Cabinet Ministers at other district headquarters. Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu was also present…

CM unfurls the National Flag on the 53rd HP Statehood Day at Hamirpur

The 53rd statehood Day of Himachal Pradesh was celebrated with great fervor in the state; Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu unfurled the National Flag in a state level function at Hamirpur and took salute from marching contingents of Police, Home Guards, IRB Sakoh , NCC cadets , Scouts and Guides led by DSP Ankit Sharma….

Prime Minister assures the CM to help the state

Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu called on Prime Minister Narendra Modi at New Delhi on Tuesday; it  was a courtesy call after becoming the Chief Minister.  A government spokesman said, “During the meeting the CM discussed several issues and apprised the Prime Minister about progress of different development projects being implemented in the…

Chief Minister meets the President of India

Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu called on President of India Smt. Droupadi Murmu at New Delhi on Mandy. This is his first meeting with the President of India after becoming the Chief Minister of Himachal Pradesh .  

State government to open model schools in every Assembly constituency of the state -CM

Himachal Pradesh government would open sixty eight model day boarding schools in every Assembly constituency of the state to provide quality education. Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu presiding over the meeting of the senior officers of the education department on Friday at Shimla said, “As per the promise of the Congress party given during the…

Congress government to carry out uniform development in Mandi district – Kaul Singh Thakur

Senior Congress leader Kaul Singh Thakur said the Congress government of the state is committed to carry out uniform development in all ten constituencies of Mandi district. Talking to media persons on Friday at Mandi he said , “ The development during the previous government was only carried in two Assembly segments of Mandi district…

All eyes on meeting at Shimla to break deadlock between Adani Cements and truckers

As thousands of truckers from both truck operators unions of Barmana and Darlaghat held a protest march for nearly eleven kilometers from Nauni to Bilaspur on Thursday against abrupt closure of cement plants by management of Adani Cements, now all eyes are set on the meeting convened by Industries Minister Harshvardhan Chauhan with  both the…

Bharat Jodo Yatra aims to unite nation against communal and divisive forces- Rahul Gandhi

  The Bharat Jodo Yatra undertaken by former Congress president Rahul Gandhi entered Himachal Pradesh at Manser in Kangra district on Wednesday, before heading towards its last leg in Kashmir. Rahul Gandhi was given a rousing reception by Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, Deputy CM Mukesh Agnihotri, HP Congress Committee president Pratibha Singh, several Cabinet…

HP Government issues notification to implement old pension scheme

Himachal Pradesh Government has issued notification for implementing Old Pension Scheme (OPS) in the state as decided in the State Cabinet Meeting on January 13, 2023. As per the notification issued by Chief Secretary Prabodh Saxena on Tuesday, “All government employees who are presently being covered under the defined contributory scheme also referred as (NPS)…

BJP president JP Nadda gets extension till June 2024

BJP national president Jagat Prakash Nadda has been given extension till June 2024. The announcement to this effect was made by Home Minister Amit Shah in a press conference at New Delhi on Tuesday during the national executive meeting of the party. JP Nadda was elected national president of BJP in June 2019 and his…

IIT Mandi researchers explore effects of sad music on a sad person

It’s been a mystery as to why a person listens to sad music during his sadness but researchers of Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Mandi have tried to explore the mystery by carrying out research on the subject. Music has a powerful ability to affect our emotions and people often turn to music to bolster…

CM urges Union Government to enhance disaster management fund

Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu has urged the Union Government to enhance the disaster management fund for Himachal Pradesh as the state is prone to various natural disasters due to difficult topographical and climatic conditions. Speaking after inauguration of two Doppler Weather Radars for the state by  Union Minister of State for Earth Sciences Dr Jitender…

CM announces Rs 10,000 as apparel allowance to old age home inmates

Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu has announced to give an apparel allowance of Rs 10000 per person every year to inmates of old age homes, orphanages’ , destitute women , deaf and dumb children .    Making this announcement during his visit to  an old age home at Basantpur on Saturday the CM said, “…

HP Cabinet decides to implement OPS for state government employees’

Himachal Pradesh State Cabinet has decided to implement Old Pension Scheme (OPS) for all state government employees’ presently defined contributory pension scheme covered under New Pension System (NPS). In its first Cabinet Meeting of the Congress government in the state presided over by Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu it has also decided to adopt the…

Portfolios distributed to Cabinet Ministers

Himachal Pradesh government has allocated portfolios to Cabinet Ministers. As per the notification issued by Chief Secretary Prabhodh Saxena on Wednesday, Chief minister will hold the departments of Home, Finance Personal, GAD and Planning, besides other departments not allocated to other ministers. Deputy Chief Ministers Mukesh Agnihotri would hold the charge Jal Shakti Department, Transport…

IIT ( Mandi) Assistant Professor gets National Award

 Dr. Garima Agrawal  from the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Mandi has been awarded Platinum Jubilee Young Scientist Award -2022 by National Academy of Sciences India (NASI). Dr Agarwal , Assistant Professor in school of chemical science of the IIT Mandi  has been awarded in chemical science category in recognition of her contribution in the field ….

Seven Cabinet Ministers and six Chief Parliamentary Secretaries take oath

Himachal Pradesh Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar administered oath of office and secrecy to seven Cabinet Ministers, inducted in the Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu government on Sunday at Raj Bhawan Shimla. The Cabinet Ministers which took oath are Dhani Ram Shandil representing Solan Assembly constituency , Chander Kumar from Jawali constituency , Harshvardhan Chauhan representing Shilai Assembly…

Cabinet formation in the State likely to be delayed for another week

The long-awaited formation of the Himachal Pradesh Cabinet is likely to be delayed for another week. After Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu had left for New Delhi amidst Winter Session of Himachal Pradesh Assembly at Dharamshala on Thursday, the media was full of reports about formation of Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu’s Cabinet on Saturday itself. There…

CM leaves for Delhi amidst winter session

Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukh  left for New Delhi amidst the Winter Session of HP Assembly on Thursday evening. According to reports the CM is likely to hold discussion with the Congress High Command for formation of a new Cabinet in Himachal Pradesh. The Cabinet formation has already been delayed for more than twenty five…

Kuldeep Pathania unanimously elected HP Assembly Speaker

Fifth time Congress MLA Kuldeep Pathania, representing Bhatyaty Assembly Constituency of Chamba district, has been unanimously elected Speaker of the 14th Himachal Vidhan Sabha. Kuldeep Pathania had filed nomination papers for the post on Wednesday. As Congress enjoys a clear majority with 40 MLAs in the house of 68, the BJP did not put up its…

HP Assembly session begins with noisy note, Kuldeep Pathania likley to be next Speaker

The inaugural session of the present Himachal Vidhan Sabha began at Tapovan Dharamshala on Wednesday with a noisy note. As soon as the House assembled after the national anthem the opposition BJP MLAs led by former Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur started raising slogans against the state government demanding discussion on notifications issued to close…

IPS officer posted on duty dies of heart attack

An IPS officer SR Rana deputed on duty at Zorawar Singh stadium Dharamshala for Congress Aabhaar rally died after a massive heart attack on Tuesday. Posted as Commandment of IRB Battalion Jangal Beri, Rana had a massive heart attack. He was rushed to Zonal Hospital Dharamshala but could not be saved.   Chief Minister. Sukhvinder Singh…

CM promises transparent and responsive administration in Aabhaar Rally at Dharamshala

Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu has promised to provide a transparent and responsive administration accountable to people of the state. Addressing Jan Aabhaar Rally at Zorawar Stadium Dharamshala on Tuesday organized to express gratitude to people of Himachal for giving clear mandate to Congress in the Assembly election, the CM said, “We are not in…

CM inaugurates Manali Winter Carnival

Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu inaugurated the five-day Manali Winter Carnival on Monday . He paid obeisance in Hidimba Temple and flagged off the Carnival parade. Addressing a public meeting on the occasion the CM announced plans to open an indoor stadium with an ice skating rink at Manali to promote tourism; he also announced…

Prabodh Saxsena appointed Chief Secretary

Himachal Pradesh Government has appointed 1990 batch IAS officer Prabodh Saxsena as new Chief Secretary (CS) of the state after retirement of CS RD Dhiman. Saxsena was working as Additional CS Finance and Personnel. The notification of the appointment was made late night on Saturday. The state government has also appointed former CS Ram Subhag…

State Govt gets Rs 42 crore from the Central Govt

Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu said, “The state government has been given Rs 42 crore under PM Gati-Shakti scheme under  special assistance to states for capital investment- 2022-23 by the Union Finance Ministry.”  He said, “The state government had submitted four projects to the tune of Rs  84 crore for the Central Government Assistance to develop logistic…

Delay in formation of HP Cabinet giving sleepless nights to aspirants

Delay in formation of new Cabinet in Himachal Pradesh is giving sleepless nights to aspirant MLAs seeking Cabinet berths in the recently formed Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu led Congress government. Though Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu and Deputy Chief Minister Mukesh Agnihotri took oath on December 11, three days after declaration of election result on December…

Congress government committed to implement ten guarantees including OPS- CM

Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu has reiterated, “The State Government is committed to implement Old Pension Scheme (OPS) to the state employees and announcement in this regard would be made in the first Cabinet Meeting.” Addressing a delegation of NPS employees on Wednesday he said, “The Congress government stands by ten guarantees given to people…

Acting tough in paper leakage case HP Govt suspends functioning of HPSSC Hamirpur

Himachal Pradesh Government has suspended the functioning of Himachal Pradesh Staff Selection Commission (HPPSC) Hamirpur with immediate effect after arrest of six persons including an employee of the board for allegedly selling JOA test question paper by Vigilance and Anti- Corruption Bureau (VACB) team on December 23. Chief Secretary to HP Government RD Dhiman said,…

Jai Ram Thakur elected leader of BJP legislature party

Former Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur was elected leader of BJP legislature party in Himachal Pradesh Assembly in the meeting held at Shimla on Sunday. His name was proposed by former Vidhan Sabha speaker Vipin Pramar and a few other MLAs and supported by all other members of the BJP legislature party. Thakur would also…

An employee of Service Selection Board Hamirpur arrested along with her son and a tout for selling JOA question paper for Rs 2.5 lakh

State Vigilance and Anti-corruption Bureau (SV & ACB) branch Hamirpur has arrested three persons including an employee of the Himachal Pradesh State Service Selection Board (HPSSSB) Hamirpur and her son for allegedly selling a question paper of JOA ( Junior Office Assistant -IT) screening test scheduled to be conducted next Sunday ( December 25) ….

Chief Minister promises to fulfill ten guarantees given by Congress during Assembly election

Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu said, “HP Government is committed to fulfill ten guarantees made by Congress party during the Assembly election and it would make every effort to work as per expectation and aspiration of people of the state as per Congress pratigya patra -22.” The CM in a statement issued from New Delhi…

CM Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu tests Carona positive, Winter session of HP Assembly postponed

Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu has tested COVID -19 positive. A spokesman of Himachal Pradesh government said, “The CM has been tested positive at New Delhi on Monday; he was scheduled to meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi but after this development his scheduled meeting has been postponed.”  The spokesman said, “He is asymptomatic and has…

Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu and other leaders join Bharat Jodo Yatra

Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, Deputy Chief Minister Mukesh Agnihotri, HPCC president Pratibha Singh and several Congress MLAs from Himachal Pradesh participated in Bharat Jodo Yatra at Dausa in Rajasthan on Friday , being undertaken by former president of All India Congress Committee (AICC) Rahul Gandhi.   It was 100th day of the Yatra on Friday started…

Adani Cement using pressure tactics by closing cement plants ?

The decision of the management of Adani Group to shut down its two cement plants at Gagal (Barmana) and Darlaghat in Himachal Pradesh on Tuesday seems a pressure tactics to bring truck operators, employees and dump owners to terms. The Adani Group had purchased cement plant at Barmana from Associate Cement Companies (ACC) and at…

Chief Minister directs officers to come up with innovate ideas

Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu directed the officers of the State Government to take proactive steps to ensure effective implementation of welfare schemes, besides coming up with innovative ideas to strengthen and streamline the government functioning keeping in view people’s expectations.   Presiding over a meeting of senior officers of the state government at HP…

Mandi district loses power share in state government

Though,  former Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur has maintained BJP’s grip in his home district (Mandi)  by winning nine out of ten Assembly constituencies in the recently concluded Assembly election in Himachal Pradesh, however, this is for the first time in over seven decade’ s long electoral history of the state Mandi district  would be losing political…

CM and Deputy CM take over Offices in HP Secretariat

Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh ‘Sukhu’ and Deputy CM Mukesh Agnihotri officially took over offices in HP Secretariat on Monday. On reaching the secretariat they were greeted by the officers and officials at the gate. Later, the CM held a meeting with Congress MLAs and officers separately. Talking to media persons the CM said, “I am…

CM picks up Sunil Sharma ‘Bittoo’ as his political advisor

Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh ‘Sukhu’ has appointed Sunil Sharma ‘Bittoo’ as his political advisor with a Cabinet Minister Rank. This is the first political appointment made by the CM after taking oath on Sunday. Sharma is an old trusted political associate of the CM. Belonging to Hamirpur he has been throughout with the CM in…

Sukhvinder Singh ‘Sukhu’ and Mukesh Agnihotri sworn in as CM and Deputy CM

Sukhvinder Singh ‘Sukhu’ was sworn in the Chief Minister of Himachal Pradesh while Mukesh Agnihotri took oath as Deputy Chief Minister of the state. The oath of office and secrecy was administered by HP Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar to the CM and Deputy CM in a ceremony organized at the Ridge Shimla on Sunday. Both…

Sukhvinder Singh ‘Sukhu’ would be next HP Chief Minister, Mukesh Deputy CM

Sukhvinder Singh ‘Sukhu’ would be the next Chief Minister of Himachal Pradesh, While Mukesh Agnihotri would be Deputy Chief Minister. The decision to elect Sukhvinder Singh as leader of the Congress Legislature Party (CLP) was taken after a meeting held at HP Vidhan Sabha on Saturday evening attended by 40 newly elected Congress MLAs. Chief…

Congress stakes claim to form government in Himachal

Congress party has staked claim to the next government in Himachal Pradesh. Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel, Congress observer for the state accompanied by former CM of Haryana Bhupinder Singh Hooda and Congress state in-charge Rajiv Shukla handed over the letter staking claim to form the government to HP Governor Rajender Arkleshwar on Friday at…

CM resigns

Chief Minister of Himachal Pradesh Jai Ram Thakur has submitted his resignation to HP Governor Rajender Arlekar on Thursday after declaration of election results. The Governor has requested the CM to continue in the office till formation of new government .

Congress sweeps HP Assembly polls by winning 40 seats , CM Jai Ram manages hold in Mandi district- wins by 38183 votes

Continuing the tradition of change in state government after every five years for the past 37 years, the voters of Himachal has once again given clear majority to Congress party. The Congress party has secured 40 seats and BJP could manage only 25 seats in the house of 68 in HP state Assembly. Three independent…

Sixty Four awarded PhDs in IIT Mandi convocation

As many as sixty four students of The Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Mandi were awarded PhDs in the 10th Convocation of the institute on Monday. Seventy students were awarded M.Tech, 188 students were awarded B.Tech degrees, 95 MSc and  10 MA degrees also.    Prof. Stuart R. Hameroff from University of Arizona,(USA)  graced the occasion as the Chief…

CBI probe begins in HP Police constables recruitment case

The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has started investigation in the Himachal Police Recruitment Case nearly six months after the state government’s decision to hand over the investigation to the agency. An officer of the CBI said, “The CBI has started investigation and registered an FIR in the case.” Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur had…

IIT Mandi Researchers make headway in generating electric energy from household LED lights

A research team from Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Mandi has developed a new photovoltaic material which can generate electric power when irradiated with light produced in household lights like LED or CFL.  The findings of the research have been published in the journal Solar Energy in a paper authored jointly by Dr. Ranbir Singh- a…

Polling percentage revised to 75.6 percent in the Himachal Assembly polls

As per revised voting percentage,  75.6 percent polling was recorded in the Himachal Assembly election on Saturday. Chief Electoral Officer of the state Maneesh Garg said , “ The polling percentage as per revised data has been recorded 75.6 percent (EVM 74.6 percent and one percent through postal ballots); the figure would increase further as…

Campaigning ends for Himachal Assembly election

Campaigning for the 68 members Himachal Pradesh Assembly election came to an end on Thursday evening. The polling would be held on November 12 while counting of votes would be undertaken on December 8. BJP, Congress, CPM, BSP and AAP mobilized all their organizational strength and resources on the last day of the campaign by…

PM hits at Congress in election rally at Sujanpur

Prime Minister Narendra Modi made a scathing attack on the opposition Congress during an election rally at Sujanpur on Wednesday. He questioned, “Those who cannot handle opposition properly, how would they handle the government; he said the guarantees being given by Congress in Himachal Pradesh to voters are just election gimmicks since Congress has always…

BJP promises to introduce common civil code in its election manifesto

Himachal BJP has promised to introduce uniform civil code in the state in its election manifesto. BJP manifesto was released on Sunday at Shimla by BJP national president JP Nadda. Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur, state BJP president Suresh Kashyap, Union Minister Anurag Thakur and several other leaders. Besides, introducing uniform civil code, BJP has…

Congress tries to address every section of society through its election manifesto

Himachal Pradesh Congress Committee (HPCC) has promised to restore the old pension scheme for state government employees in the state, give one lakh government jobs to unemployed youths, give support price to all varieties of apples and give Rs 1500 per month to every woman in the state in its election manifesto.   The election…

PM attacks Congress leaders for alleged kick-backs in defence deals

Prime Minister Narendra Modi targeted the previous Congress government for “alleged scams to get kickbacks in defence deals in the country “. Addressing his first election rally at Sunder Nagar in Himachal Pradesh the PM accused, “The Congress leaders took kickbacks in defence deals and put Indian Defence Forces at risk, even delayed purchase of…

First voter of India , Shiam Saran Negi passes away at the age of 106

The first voter of Independent India Shiam Saran Negi passed away at his native village Kalpa in Kinnaur district early morning on Saturday at the age of one hundred and six years.   Negi , who had been casting his vote in all General and Assembly elections since 1951 had cast his vote for the 34th time…

Tunnel being constructed for four laning of Chandigarh – Manali highway caves in near Mandi

A tunnel being constructed to convert Chandigarh – Manali road into four lanes, caved in on Tuesday night at about 10 PM near Malori. Nearly fifty workers working in the tunnel immediately rushed out to safety and no one was injured in the incident. Two tunnels are being built a few kilometers away from Mandi…

Priynaka Gandhi asks people to continue the tradition of change of government after five years

Congress General Secretary Priyanka Gandhi appealed to people of Himachal Pradesh to carry on good traditions of the state like festival of Shivratri, Kull Dusehra and changing state government after every five years. Addressing an election meeting at Paddal Ground on Monday she said, “The tradition to change government after five years is good as…

BJP replaces Maheshwar Singh , Congress fields Dr Pushpender Verma from Hamirpur, on the last day

In a major political development on the last day of nominations for Himachal Pradesh Assembly election,  BJP has refused to give Form A and B for allotment of party ticket to its Kullu nominee Maheshwar Singh and replaced him with a new candidate Narotam Thakur who  filed his nomination papers on Tuesday . Maheshwar Singh, who…

Now Congress leader Mankotia joins BJP

In another jolt to Congress in poll bound Himachal Pradesh  a senior Congress leader Vijay Singh Mankotia and former Congress MLA  Rakesh Kalia have joined BJP. Mankotia joined BJP in the presence of national president of BJP Jagat Prakash  Nadda and Harsh Mahajan at Bilaspur on Tuesday . Mankotia, who had won five Assembly elections from Shahpur Assembly…

Congress releases list of 17 candidates in addition to 46 released earlier for HP Polls

Thirty eight file nomination papers on the fourth day

As many as 38 candidates filed their nomination papers on the fourth day for the Himachal Pradesh Assembly election on Thursday. Prominent among those who filed their nomination papers are Congress candidates Kaul Singh Thakur (Darang). Leader of opposition Mukesh Agnihotri (Haroli), Bhawani Singh Pathania (Fatehpur),  Inder Dutt Lakhanpal (Badsar) , Ram Kumar (Doon) and  Sunder Singh…

BJP leadership tries to contain dissension in the second list

The BJP leadership has tried to contain further discord in the party witnessed after release of names of 62 candidates to contest Himachal Pradesh Assembly election on Wednesday, through its second list released on Thursday. In the second list the BJP has accommodated former ministers Ramesh Dhwala from Dehra and Ravinder Ravi from Jwalamukhi Assembly…

Nine including CM Jai Ram Thakur file nomination papers on third day of nominations

Nine candidates including Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur filed their nomination papers on the third day of filing nominations for Himachal Assembly election on Wednesday in the state. Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur filed his nomination papers at Thunag in the afternoon for Seraj Assembly constituency. Before filing his nomination papers the CM addressed a…

BJP releases list of 62 candidates to contest Himachal Assembly election

CPM finalizes eleven candidates to contest HP Assembly election

The Communist Party of India (Marxist) HP state committee  has finalized names of eleven candidates to contest the ensuing Assembly election in Himachal Pradesh. The CPM Secretary Dr.  Onkar Shad said , “ The CPM has decided to contest eleven seats in the coming Assembly election in Himachal Pradesh “. He said, “ The  candidates…

BJP and Congress still finalizing candidates as nomination begins

In the absence of finalization of party candidates by two major political parties in Himachal Pradesh i.e BJP and Congress the filing of nomination on the first day on Monday  was quite sluggish . Not many candidates turned up to file their nomination papers and at many places not even a single nomination was filed…

Priyanka Gandhi assures to fulfill ten guarantees being given by Congress in Himachal

Congress General Secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra has promised to fulfill ten guarantees being given by the Congress party to people of Himachal Pradesh. Addressing a public rally at Thodo Ground on Friday she said, “The Congress party is committed to fulfill ten guarantees being given in Himachal to people and three of them i.e. filling…

Himachal Assembly Election on November 12

The Election Commission of India has announced the schedule for the Assembly Election in Himachal Pradesh . Announcing the schedule in a press conference at New Delhi on Friday Chief Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar said, “Assembly Election in Himachal Pradesh would be held in a single phase on November 12 and counting of the votes…

Prime Minister Narendra Modi flags off Vande Bharat Train at Una , addresses public meetings at Una and Chamba

Prime Minister Narendra Modi flagged off Vande Bharat Express Train from Amb- Andaura to New Delhi and laid foundation stone of Bulk Drug Park at Una on Thursday. He also inaugurated Indian Institute of Information Technology (IIIT) on the occasion. Addressing a public meeting the PM said, “After getting so many important projects of public…

Frequent U-turns put Sukh Ram Family in the spotlight

Though switching political parties in Indian politics has become common, the way ‘Sukh Ram Family’ has been defecting frequently, has put them in the spotlight .  Sukh Ram’s son Anil Sharma had announced to remain in BJP a few days back, after vacillation of several months and his son Ashrey Sharma also left Congress and…

CM reviews arrangements for PM’s proposed tour of Chamba on October 13

A review meeting was held at Chamba on Saturday for the proposed tour of Prime Minister Narendra Modi to the district on October 13. Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur, while presiding over the meeting to take stock of preparedness for the PM’s tour directed the authorities to make  foolproof arrangements for the proposed programme.  The…

State Cabinet approves MOU for making AIIMS as nodal agency

Himachal Pradesh Cabinet has given approval to draft a MOU between the State and the Central governments to make All India Institute of Medical Sconces (AIIMS) as a nodal agency for medical education, research, for providing specialized health facilities, health care, developing training centers,  conferences and international seminars. The meeting presided over by Chief Minister…

Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurates AIIMS Bilaspur, participates in Kullu Dussehra

Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS Bilaspur) built with the cost of Rs 1471 crore and Hydro Engineering College on Wednesday in Bilaspur district as he inaugurated and laid foundation stones of projects of nearly Rs 3653 crore during his visit.  Addressing a public meeting at Luhnu Ground of Bilaspur…

Nadda and CM oversee arrangements for the PM’s visit on Wednesday

National president of BJP JP Nadda and Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur visited All India institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) Bilaspur and Luhnu ground on Tuesday to take stock of arrangements before Prime Minister Nareneder Modi’s  visit to Bilaspur on Wednesday. Director of the AIIMS Dr Vir Singh Negi also gave a presentation on the…

Country facing serious situation – CITU General Secretary Tapan Sen

Tapan Sen, national general secretary of Center for Indian Trade Unions (CITU) said, “The country is facing a serious situation today due to faulty policies being adopted by the NDA government and BJP led state governments.” Addressing 14th State Conference of CITU on Saturday at Mandi he said, “These policies have led to sharp increase in…

HPCC working president Harsh Mahajan joins BJP

In a major jolt to Congress in Himachal Pradesh, the working president of Himachal Pradesh Congress Committee (HPCC) and former Cabinet Minister in Virbhadra Singh government, Harsh Mahajan joined BJP in New Delhi on Wednesday. A three time MLA from Chamba constituency was considered a right-hand man of former Chief Minister Virbhadra Singh and was…

CM flags off Shimla – Delhi flight

Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur flagged off Shimla – Delhi Air Flight from Jubbarhatti Airport on Monday, virtually. The ATR -42-600 aircraft of Alliance Airline took off from Shimla resuming the air service from Jubbarhatti Airport after a gap of almost two years. Union Minister of State for Civil Aviation, General VK Singh also participated…

Seven die in accident near Banjar (Kullu)

Seven tourists traveling in a Traveler Tempo have lost their lives and ten others injured after the tempo fell into a deep gorge in Jhalod nullah near Ghiyagi on Banjar – Jalodi -Jot road Sunday night at about 8.30 PM. SP Kullu Gurdev Chand Sharma said, “A group of tourists comprising professionals and students were coming…

Mukhya Mantri Ek Bigha Yojna helping rural women

Mukhya Mantri Ek Bigha Yojna (MMEBY) launched by Himachal Pradesh government is proving to be of immense help for rural women as the main objective of the scheme is to strengthen their economy by connecting them with livelihood activities. Under the scheme women are linked with self help groups (SHGs) and encouraged to take up…

PM fails to reach Mandi due to bad weather

Prime Minister Narender Modi , who was scheduled to address a Youth Rally at Mandi on Saturday could not land here due to heavy downpour and bad weather . However, the PM addressed the rally virtually from New Delhi.

CM inaugurates upgraded milk plant at Chakkar

Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur inaugurated a new Milkfed Plant Chakkar built with the cost of Rs 16.32 crore in Balh area (Mandi) increasing its capacity to over 50,000 litres  . Addressing a public meeting on this occasion the CM said, “HP Milkfed collected about 395 lakh liters of milk from 47,295 farmers of the…

Chief Election Commissioner reviews poll preparedness for HP Assembly election

A team of Election Commission of India led by Chief Election Commissioner of India (CEC) Rajiv Kumar and Election Commissioner Anup Chandra Pandey held various meetings to review the poll preparedness for the forthcoming Assembly Elections in Himachal Pradesh on Friday at Shimla and met representatives of various political parties. They also held a review…

Passengers suffer as state government fails to regulate private buses

As the Himachal Pradesh government has failed to regulate private buses in the state, passengers traveling in these buses rue highhandedness of the private bus operators. Though, the Transport department has set norms and issued directions from time to time but these are being violated with impunity,  tell passengers . A daily commuter Ankita who…

Bilaspur district gets DGGI prize consecutively for the second time

Bilaspur district administration has bagged second prize of District Good Governance Index (DGGI) for two times in a row. The prize was given in a ceremony at Vipasha Sadan by Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur on Monday to DC Bilaspur Pankaj Rai. The prize is given for achievement indicators in different fields set by the…

Anil Sharma tries to cozy up with CM Jai Ram Thakur during tour of Mandi constituency

As Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur attended several programmes in Mandi sadar Assembly constituency at Kotli on Monday, local MLA Anil Sharma tried to cozy up with the CM in his effort to get assurance about his “future” in the BJP and the state government.Sharma , who was forced to quit from Jai Ram Cabinet…

Kushwant Singh Litfest from October 14-16 to ponder vision for climate change

Three –day Khushwant Singh Litfest (KSLF) is being organized this year from October 14 to 16. To celebrate 75 years of Indian Independence the theme for the fest this year would be “The Climate change: Are we Sprightly at 75; a vision to reflect on – Can our ancient land be a catalyst for the…

CRC Sunder Nagar starts Tel-physiotherapy service

Tele-physiotherapy facility was launched in CRC center Sunder Nagar on Saturday, which was inaugurated by local MLA Rakesh Jamwal.   The MLA congratulated the special people of the institute and its staff on the occasion of the birthday of PM Narender Modi. He also interacted with the students of the institute and also distributed hearing…

HP govt notifies to pay arrears to its employees in cash in September

Himachal Pradesh government has decided to  pay arrears accrued from revision of pay scales in cash to its regular employees in the month of September 22. A notification issued by Secretary Finance to HP government said, “Out of total arrears accrued after revision of pay scales an amount of Rs fifty thousands in cash has…

Forum Against Corruption highlights alleged irregularities in recruitment of 250 teachers in HP University Shimla

The Forum Against Corruption (FAC) formed to highlight alleged irregularities in recruitments of 250 teachers in Himachal Pradesh University (HPU) Shimla, has demanded the constitution of a Commission of Inquiry  headed by a sitting judge of Himachal Pradesh High Court. Talking to media persons at Shimla on Thursday, former Deputy Mayor of Shimla Tikender Singh…

Himachal Cabinet decides to make part time panchayat chowkidars completing 12 years as daily wagers

Himachal Pradesh Cabinet has decided to make part time panchayat chowkidars completing 12 years of service as daily wage employees in panchayats. The meeting presided over by Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur thanked Prime Minister Narender Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah for giving tribal status to Hatti community living in Trans-Giri area. It decided…

Union Cabinet grants tribal status to Hatti community, CM thanks the PM

The Union Cabinet has given its consent to grant tribal status to  Hatti community living in Trans -Giri area in Sirmaur district of the state fulfilling their decades old  demand.  The decision was taken in the Union Cabinet meeting held at New Delhi on Wednesday. Giving information about the decision Union Information and Broadcasting Minister Anurag Thakur…

IIT researchers develop method to study internal structure of living cells useful in treatment of diseases like cancer

The researchers at Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Mandi in collaboration with scholars from University of Cincinnati, USA, have developed an efficient method to study internal structure and functions of an important component of living cells. Explaining the process the researchers said, “A lysosome is an essential component of a living cell and interacts with other cell…

Four missing trekkers traced by rescue teams

Four trekkers from West Bengal who went missing last Wednesday in the Malana area of Kullu valley have been traced by the rescue teams on Sunday after five days near  Mt. Ali Ratni Tibba (5,458m). SP Kullu Gurdev Chand Sharma said, “  Four professional mountaineers i.e  Abhijit Banik (43), Chinmoy Mondal (43), Dibash Dass (37),…

Four trekkers from West Bengal still remain un-traced in Kullu district

Four professional trekkers missing in Kullu district since Wednesday have still not been traced as the rescue teams could not reach the mountain peak on Saturday ,where they had gone missing. A seven member team of trekkers  from West Bengal along with a cook had left  to scale  Mt. Ali Ratni Tibba ( 5,458m) near…

Manish Sisodia and Bhagwant Mann affirm guarantees of Aam Admi Party for people of Himachal

Delhi Deputy Chief Minister Mansih Sisodia accused the Central government for unleashing CBI inquiry against him to deter him from improving   education system in Delhi. Addressing a meeting of Aam Admi Party workers accompanied by Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann at Mandi on Friday he said, “The BJP government may soon hound him through ED…

CM congratulates HP Police for getting second rank in tracing abductions

Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur has congratulated the State Police Department for being ranked as the second best in the country after Odisha in tracing kidnapping/abduction victims and missing persons, as per 2021 data of National Crime Records Bureau. He said, “Himachal Pradesh is a peaceful state with very low crime rate as compared to…

Kaul Singh accuses state government for misusing public money through rallies

Former minister and senior Congress leader Kaul Singh Thakur has accused the state government “for using public money for their publicity.” Talking to media persons at Mandi on Thursday he said, “Jai Ram government is allegedly misusing public money by organizing rallies to promote BJP before the election under the garb of celebrating 75 years…

PM Narender Modi to address BJYM rally at Mandi on September 24

Prime Minister Narender Modi would address a rally of BJYM workers at Mandi on September 24. Sharing this information with media persons at Shimla on Thursday state BJP president Suresh Kashyap said, “Prime Minister Narender Modi would address a rally of BJYM workers at Paddal Ground of Mandi on September 24.” He said , “…

Will BJP field Dhumal in the coming Assembly election?

As former Chief Minister Prem Kumar Dhumal  has reportedly shown his intention to contest next Assembly election from Sujanpur constituency in Hamirpur district, his candidature is still fraught with many political questions . Dhumal led the BJP government  in the state twice from 1998 to 2003 and 2007 to 2012 and was also BJP’s Chief…

Teacher who taught lifelong lessons

Dharam Prakash Gupta Every teacher plays a long-lasting role in shaping the life of a person but there are a few exceptions who not only teach subjects very well but also give lessons with an everlasting impression to shape future thought and way of life. I was fortunate enough to be taught by a very…

HP Cabinet decides to give Rs 3000 per month to research scholars

Himachal Pradesh Cabinet has decided to open new government degree colleges at Balhseena in Jhandutta Assembly Constituency (Bilaspur district) and Masrund in Churah Assembly Constituency of Chamba district. The meeting held on Monday at Shimla presided over by Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur has decided to start mukhya mantri shodh protsahan yojna under which research…

Home Guards would be given round the year duty – CM

Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur said Home Guards jawans would be given round the year duty without a break. Presiding over a state level function of State Home Guards Welfare Association at Sunder Nagar on Sunday he said, “Nearly 8000 jawans are e assisting police and working on deployed on other emergency duties.” He said,”…

State government to sign MOUs with CA Stores to address apple growers grievances

While apple growers of Himachal Pradesh are on warpath against ‘arbitrary’ procurement price reduction of apples by private Controlled Atmosphere (CA) Stores of the state, the state government has decided to intervene to find a solution to grower’s grievances.   Acting tough against management of Adani Agri Fresh Limited, having the largest three stores in…

HP Cabinet Thanks PM Narender Modi for sanctioning Bulk Drug Pharma Park

The State Cabinet meeting held here on Thursday at Shimla under the chairmanship of Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur thanked Prime Minister Narender Modi for sanctioning Bulk Drug Pharma Park for state as this would prove a milestone in development of the state. The Cabinet has decided to fill up backlog of 98 posts of…

IIT Mandi researchers develop nanoparticles for treating colorectal cancer

IIT Mandi researchers have developed natural polymers based smart nanoparticles to treat colorectal cancer from renewable resources such as turmeric which can release both   hydrophilic and hydrophobic drugs to reduce dependence on petroleum based polymers. The redox responsive chitosan/stearic acid nanoparticles (CSSA NPs) as drug carriers for both curcumin (hydrophobic; a component from turmeric and doxorubicin (hydrophilic)…

Chief Minister asks IIT Mandi to develop technology for saving human lives from disasters

Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur said the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Mandi is one of the top technological institutes of India and “it should focus in providing technology innovations in key areas like agriculture, horticulture, ecology & environment of Himalayas and develop technology to forewarn people about disasters happening in different parts of the…

HPSC chairman and members take oath

Himachal Pradesh Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar administered the oath of office and secrecy to newly appointed Chairman of Himachal Public Service Commission (HPSC) Rameshwar Singh Thakur at Raj Bhawan on Friday. The oath was also administered to three members appointed to the commission i.e. Rakesh Kumar, Rajesh Kumar and Nain Singh. Chief Minister Jai Ram…

IPS officer Rameshwar Thakur appointed HPSC Chairman

Ending a weeklong suspense over appointment of Chairman of Himachal Public Service Commission (HPSC), the state government has appointed IPS Officer Rameshwar Thakur as Chairman. The state government had appointed Dr Rachna Gupta as the Chairperson of HPSC on August 17 along with three new members but kept silent over the issue after the decision had…

Four lane affected people to hold protests on September 5

Four lane affected people have decided to stage protests on 5th September at different places to highlight indifference of the state government towards their long pending demands including implementation of Land Acquisition and Compensation Act 2013. President of Bhumi Adhigrahan Prabhavit Manch Beli Ram Kaundal and convener Joginder Walia said, “For the last five years four…

Colours Of Life

Hello friends Life is mysterious and unpredictable for everyone – sometimes sparkling with colours of life while somber and gloomy at times. It is full of varied colours but unpredictability makes it challenging and adventurous. However, every aspect of life is a unique experience and memory, turning it into a different story.      Everyone likes…

ICMR task force takes up study on snakebites in India

The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) task force has started a study on the incidence, mortality, morbidity and socio-economic burden of snakebite in the country. First of its kind in India, the study will look prospectively at the incidence of snakebite covering 13 states, including Himachal Pradesh, in five zones of India and a…

CM announces to enhance uniform allowance of police officers

Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur has announced to enhance the uniform allowance of Police Officers from Rs 3675 to Rs 15000 per annum. Addressing the HP Police Service Officers Meet on Monday at Shimla the CM said, “The State Police is one of the most disciplined forces of the country which is a matter of…

HP Cabinet gives approval to open Degree Colleges at Kaza and Jeori

Himachal Pradesh Cabinet has expressed grief over the death of 32 people during the recent heavy rains and sent heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families. The meeting presided over by Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur also gave approval for revision of rates / entitlement/ limit of the house building advance to state government employees by…

Issue of giving tribal status to Hatti community would be resolved soon – JP Nadda

President of BJP Jagat Prakash Nadda during his tour of Sirmaur district on Saturday said, “The issue of giving tribal status to people of Hatti area of Sirmaur district would be resolved soon by the Central government and the Hatti community would be benefited by the decision.” While addressing a large gathering at Paonta Sahib,…

Incessant rain claims 13 lives in Mandi district, five others still missing

At least thirteen persons have lost their lives and five others are still missing in landslides and flash floods caused by incessant rain continuing for the past 24 hours in Mandi district. Eight family members of panchayat pradhan Khem Singh in Kashan village under Gohar sub- division of the district perished under the slush of…

Cancellation of scheduled oath taking ceremony of HPSC chairperson and members creates controversy

The cancellation of the scheduled oath taking ceremony of the newly appointed Chairperson of Himachal State Public Service Commission (HPSC) along with three members have raised questions.   The state government had notified appointment of Dr Rachna Gupta as Chairperson of HPSC on Wednesday evening along with three members i.e.  Rakseh Sharma, Rajesh Kumar Sharma…

Rachna Gupta appointed chairperson of HP State Public Service Commission

Himachal Pradesh government has appointed Dr Rachna Gupta as Chairperson of Himachal Pradesh State Public Service Commission (HPSC) and appointed three new members.   Governor of the state Rajender Arlekar appointed the new chairperson and three members i.e. Rakesh Sharma (IAS), Rajesh Kumar Sharma and Prof. (Dr) Om Prakash Sharma as members of the Commission. 

In a major jolt to Congress party two Congress MLAs join BJP

In a major jolt to the Congress party in Himachal Pradesh  two Congress MLAs  Pawan Kajal elected from Kangra Assembly constituency and Lakhvinder Rana elected from Nalagarh constituency, joined the BJP in New Delhi on Wednesday.   Both MLAs took BJP membership in presence of BJP national president JP Nadda, Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur,…

Justice Kukreja and Virender Singh sworn in as HP High Court Judges

Justice Sushil Kukreja and Justice Virender Singh were sworn in as Judges of Himachal Pradesh High Court on Tuesday. Himachal Pradesh Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar administered the oath of office to the newly appointed judges in a ceremony at Raj Bhawan Shimla. Chief Minister  Jai Ram Thakur and Chief Justice of Himachal Pradesh High Court Justice Amjad Ahtesham…

CM announces to release first installment of arrears to state government employees on 76th Independence Day function at Sarahan

The 76th Independence Day was celebrated throughout the state with great enthusiasm, fervor and gaiety. Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur presided over a state level function at Sarahan on Monday . He unfurled the National Flag, took salute from the marching contingents of HP Police, Home Guards, NCC and NSS. The functions were held at Districts…

CM honours family members of freedom fighters

Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur honoured family members of freedom fighters in the Har Ghar Tiranga programme organized at Shimla Railway Station on Sunday to commemorate 75 years of Indian Independence.  Shakuntla Devi, wife of freedom fighter Vidyadhar, Suman daughter of Sita Ram Sharma, Mohinder Singh son of Ratti Ram and Chander Mohan grandson of…

HP Cabinet approves to open 76 Model Health Wellness Centres

The State Cabinet meeting held at Shimla on Saturday under the chairmanship of Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur gave its nod for developing 76 Model Health Wellness Centres- Primary Health Centres in the State by creating and filling up of 152 posts of staff nurses and 76 posts of female health workers on contract basis…

Employees’ demanding OPS start chain hunger strike

Protesting,  New Pension System Employees’ Sangh (NPSES) has decided to start a chain hunger strike at chaura maidan Shimla to demand restoration of the Old Pension Scheme (OPS), not being satisfied with Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur’s response to their demand. Earlier, hundreds of the NPSES members reached Shimla to highlight their demands on Saturday…

HP govt moves amendment bill to extend construction / transfer of land under section -118, to five years

Himachal Pradesh government tabled an amendment bill in Vidhan sabha on Friday to allow non-agriculturists to complete construction / transfer under section 118 of HP Land Reforms and Tenancy Act up to five years. Tabling the bill, Revenue Minister Mahinder Singh Thakur said, “Section 118 of HP Land Tenancy and Land Reforms Act -1972 restrict…

No-confidence motion against Jai Ram government defeated

No –confidence motion moved by opposition Congress and lone CPM MLA in Himachal Pradesh Assembly, which was taken up for discussion on Thursday fell  as the opposition MLAs boycotted the Chief Minister’s reply  and staged a walkout . After nearly five hours of discussion on the motion, Speaker Vipin Pramar put the motion for vote…

No-confidence motion against the state government to be taken up on Thursday

The no-confidence motion against the BJP government would be taken up for discussion on Thursday. The motion was moved on the first day of the Monsoon Session of Himachal Pradesh Vidhan Sabha by 22 MLAs of the opposition Congress and lone CPM MLA Rakesh Singha accusing the state government for “failing on all fronts.”   Vidhan…

Compensation for land acquired for Airport in Balh would be given as per Land Acquisition.. Act-2013 – state govt

“Himachal Pradesh government would acquire private land for Greenfield Airport in Balh valley as per the provisions of the Right to Fair Compensation and Transparency in Land Acquisition, Rehabilitation and Resettlement Act -2013”. Private land measuring 2535 -01- 09 Bighas is proposed to be acquired for the project. The reply was given on the first…

Balh Bachao Sangharsh Samiti organizes march to oppose Balh Airport

Balh Bachao Sangharsh Samiti organized a protest march holding tricolors to oppose the proposed construction of Balh airport on the fertile land of Balh on Tuesday. The activists of the smiti marched from Kansa Chowk ground to the residence of Balh MLA Inder Singh Gandhi at Kummi and handed him over a demand charter. Secretary…

Two Independent MLAs would maintain their status during monsoon session – Speaker

Two Independent Members of Himachal Pradesh Legislative Assembly Prakash Rana (Joginder Nagar ) and Hoshiar Singh (Dehra Gopipur), who had joined BJP recently, would continue to maintain the status of Independent MLAs during the monsoon assembly session beginning August 10. The Speaker of Himachal Pradesh Vidhan Sabha Vipin Pramar said, “The two MLAs would continue…

Apple growers hold protest at HP Secretariat Shimla – Govt holds talks

Apple growers from different parts of the state held a massive protest at Shimla on Friday, forcing the state government to hold talks amidst anxious moments with their representatives and concede some of the demand raised by the growers. Thousands of apple growers including sizable women, representing twenty seven organizations under the banner of Sanyukt…

HP Cabinet approves to fill up 320 post under NHRM

Himachal Pradesh State Cabinet, presided over by chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur, has decided to fill up 320 posts of different categories under National Rural Health Mission and fill up four posts of Junior Office Assistant (IT) in horticulture department. The Cabinet has also given approval for reimbursement of 6 percent subsidy on purchase of…

Seven youths from Punjab feared drowned in Govind Sagar Lake

Seven youths from Banud (Mohali) Punjab are feared to have drowned in Govind Sagar Lake on Monday. A police source said, “The incident occurred at about 4 pm when a group of eleven visitors hailing from Banud area of Punjab ventured into the Govind Sagar Lake near Kokla village in Bangana sub division of Una…

CM launches a programme to commemorate 75 years of formation of Himachal

Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur launched  Pragatisheel Himachal –  Sthapna Ke 75 Varsh ( Developing Himachal- 75 Years of Formation), to commemorate 75 years of formation of Himachal Pradesh at historic Chamba Chaugan during the closing ceremony of Minjar fair on Sunday . Addressing a gathering on the occasion he said, “When India is celebrating 75…

Hatti Community to be given tribal status soon – CM

Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur said, “The tribal status to Hatti Community of Sirmour would be given soon by the Union Government.” After having discussion with Union Home Minister Amit Shah during Drug Trafficking and National Security Conference at Chandigarh, Thakur said, “The Home Minister has assured the Union Government would soon take a final…

PM interacts with a beneficiary in a programme at Thunag

Prime Minister Narendra Modi interacted with Hans Ran of Sunder Nagar – a beneficiary of Pradhan Mantri Kusum Yojna, at the closing ceremony of Ujjal Bhavishya Power @2047 at Thunag on Saturday through video conferencing. Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur was also connected with the PM virtually on this occasion in Mandi district. Ujjwal Bharat…

Wing Commander hailing from Mandi district loses life in MIG 21 plane crash

Wing Commander Mohit Rana, hailing from Sandhol in Mandi district lost his life in the air crash of an IAF MIG 21 fighter Jet plane last night near Barmer (Rajasthan).   Rana, along with Flight Lieutenant Aditya Bal hailing from Jammu, had taken the training sortie from Uttarlai air base but the fighter plane crashed at about 9.10 PM near Barmer…

HP Cabinet approves six percent subsidy on cartons and trays

Himachal Pradesh Cabinet has decided to give a six percent subsidy on purchase of cartons and trays used for packing apples and other fruits, sold by HPMC, with effect from July 15. The meeting presided over by Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur also gave its nod to implement UGC pay scale revision for college and…

Writer Prof. Sunder Lohia honoured on his 90th birthday

A function to honour noted poet and story writer Prof. Sunder Lohia was organized at Gaiety Theatre Shimla on his ninetieth birthday on Monday. The stories of Prof. Lohia have been published in noted Hindi magazines of India; he has created a niche for himself in Hindi literature as his works  had drawn attention of…

CM directs Sub Committee to settle land acquisition issues

Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur has directed the Cabinet Sub Committee set up to settle land acquisition issues to thoroughly work out financial implications on account of revised compensation factors. The meeting of the Sub Committee held on Sunday at Shimla and presided over by the CM apprised him about various issues related to land…

IIT Mandi gets 20th place in NIRF Ranking

The Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Mandi has been placed at 20th place in National Institute of Ranking Framework (NIRF) – 2022 ranking.  A spokesman of the institute said, “The institute has been ranked at number 20 in the engineering category, at number 39 in the research category and at number 43 in overall category in…

HP Government appoints RD Dhiman as Chief Secretary replacing Ram Subhag Singh

In a surprise move, Himachal Pradesh Government has appointed Additional chief Secretary RD Dhiman (a 1988 batch Himachal Cadre IAS officer) as new Chief Secretary of the state replacing Ram Subhag Singh. Dhiman was serving as ACS (MPP& Power, NCES, Industries and Labour Employment). A notification to this effect has been issued by the Governor…

HP Cabinet decides to fill up 500 posts of Doctors

Himachal Pradesh Cabinet has decided to fill up 500 posts of medical officers- 300 posts through walk-in interviews and 200 through HP Public Service Commission. The meeting held at Shimla on Thursday and presided over by Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur also decided to fill up 880 posts of Community Health Officers under NRHM, 19…

Adventurer walks from Leh to Manali in a record time to enter the Guinness Book of World Records

An adventurer of Nasik has walked from Leh to Manali to enter the Guinness Book of World Records by walking a distance of 427 kilometers in a record time of 4 days 21hours and 18 minutes (a world record.) Dr Mahender Chanderkant Mahajan (46), a dentist by profession, had commenced his expedition from Leh on…

Former state BJP president Khimi Ram joins Congress

In a major jolt to ruling BJP before Assembly elections in Himachal Pradesh former State BJP president and cabinet minister in Dhumal government Pandit Khimi Ram has joined the Congress party. Khimi Ram joined the party in New Delhi on Tuesday in presence of Rajiv Shukla in- charge of Congress affairs in the state. He…

CM inaugurates development projects in Mandi

Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur inaugurated the principal market yard, 100 bedded maternity & children hospital building and a model career center in Mandi on Monday. Addressing the occasion he said, “The model career center would provide a platform for individual and group counseling for candidates looking for jobs as the centre would work upon…

Former Karsog MLA Mast Ram found hanging in a Sunder Nagar hotel

Former Congress party MLA from Karsog Mast Ram has reportedly committed suicide in a Sunder Nagar hotel on Monday morning. Mandi SP Shalini Agnihotri said, “Former Karsog MLA Mast Ram was found hanging from a ceiling fan from a hotel room in Sunder Nagar on Monday and a suicide note has also been recovered from…

CM urges the Central Government to resolve Pong Dam oustees’ issue

Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur has urged the Central government to resolve pending issues of Pong Dam oustees’ in accordance with the Supreme Court order. Speaking in the 30th meeting of the North Zonal Council on Saturday the CM said, “Himachal Pradesh has always played an important role in development of the country and people of…

Police files second charge sheet against 61 accused in police constable paper leak case

The Criminal Investigation Department (CID) of Himachal Pradesh Police has filed second charge sheet against 61 accused in the police constable paper leak case in the court of Chief Judicial Magistrate Shimla on Thursday in the FIR filed at Shimla. The Director General of Police Sanjay Kundu said, “Twenty-one touts from different districts of the…

CM reviews preparedness to tackle natural calamities

Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur interacted with DC’s and SP’s of the districts through a video conference to review preparedness for tackling emergency situations during the monsoon. The Chief Minister directed the officers to make foolproof arrangements for disaster management in view of heavy rains and deploy men and machinery in the areas prone to…

IIT Mandi and Directorate of Technical Education sign MOU

Himachal Pradesh Department of Technical Education and Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Mandi have signed a MOU to facilitate training and upgrade faculty in government run engineering polytechnic colleges and ITIs of the state to meet the challenge of technological advancement and its application.   The MOU was signed by the Director of IIT Mandi…

Thirteen die in bus accident in Kullu district

Thirteen passengers traveling in a private bus have died and two others injured after the bus no. (HP30A-0646) plying on Shensar – Sainj route fell into a deep gorge in Kullu district on Monday morning at Jangla village. The Superintendent of Police Kullu Gurdev Chand said, “Fifteen passengers were travelling in the bus when it…

Himachal achieves 93.5 percent target under Jal Jivan Mission – Govt Spokesman

All houses in Una, Chamba, Kinnaur and Lahaul – Spiti districts of Himachal Pradesh have been provided with Functional Household Tap Connections (FHTC) and the state has achieved 93.05 percent target under Jal Jivan Mission. A spokesman of the state government said , “ So far 24 blocks, 2331 panchayats,  14661 villages  have been covered…

12th state conference of AIDWA begins at Mandi

The 12th state conference of All India Democratic Women’s Association (Akhil Bhartiya Janwadi Mahila Samiti) was inaugurated by national general secretary of the association Marriam Dhawle on Saturday at Mandi. Addressing the conference she said, “The state conference here is being held at a time when women are facing several problems like unemployment, price rise, caste…

Women passengers would travel in HRTC buses on fifty percent fare from July 1 – CM

Himachal Pradesh government would give fifty percent concession to women passengers in Himachal Road Transport Corporation (HRTC) buses from Friday. Launching nari ko naman  programme at Dharamshala on Thursday Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur said , “ The women passengers would get fifty percent concession in fare for travel  in the HRTC buses , minimum…

Eyebrows raised over state government’s move to give post retirement benefits to HPSC members

The decision of the Himachal Pradesh government to give post retirement benefits  to chairman and members of Himachal Public Service Commission (HPSC)  has not gone down well with state government employees demanding restoration of Old Pension System (OPS) and opposition Congress . The state government has recently decided to give monthly amount of Rs 6000 per…

Charge sheet against BJP leaders would be based on facts and evidences – Congress

Convener of the charge-sheet committee constituted by Himachal Pradesh Congress Committee Rajesh Dharmani said, “This time the charge- sheet against the BJP led state government would be elaborate based on facts and corroborated by evidence gathered by the Congress leaders.” Talking to media persons at Mandi on Tuesday Dharamani  and former minister Kaul Singh Thakur…

CM dedicates Sardar Patel University Mandi to people ; announces to give revised UGC pay scales

 Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur formally dedicated Sardar Patel University Mandi, the second university of the state, to people on Tuesday and inaugurated two blocks of the university constructed with the cost of Rs 16.18 crore. Addressing a gathering on this occasion the CM said, “As many as 141 government and private colleges of Mandi,…

State government determined to check drugs-CM

Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur said, “A special task force would be constituted to curb drug menace in the state which would have officers form the police, CID and excise departments.” Launching nasha nahin zindagi chune campaign at Shimla on Sunday, Thakur said, “The state government is committed to eradicate drug menace for which an integrated drug…

HP Cabinet approves to engage 3970 para workers in Jal Shakti department

Himachal Pradesh Cabinet presided over by Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur gave its approval to engage 3970 para workers ( 1146 Para Pump Operators, 480 Para Fitters and 2344 Multi Purpose Workers) in Jal shakti department on honorarium basis . It gave its consent to fill up 389 posts of panchayat secretaries, create 124 posts…

Rs 10000 crores projects sanctioned to state by the Central government – CM

Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur said the projects of over Rs. 10,000 crore have been sanctioned to Himachal Pradesh by the Central government, besides giving a financial assistance of Rs 800 crore . Addressing Tridev Sammelan at Solan on Thursday he said , “  The state government has launched several welfare schemes for welfare of…

Kissan leader Tikait demands transport subsidy

Samyukat Kissan Morcha leader Rakesh Tikait has demanded transport subsidies to farmers for transporting their produce to market. Tikait, while addressing a press conference at Mandi on Thursday said, “When the Central government can give transport subsidy to sugar cane growers for transporting sugar, why can’t the government give transport subsidy to farmers of Himachal…

Justice Amjad A Sayed sworn in Chief Justice of Himachal High Court

Justice Amjad A Sayed was sworn in Chief Justice of the Himachal Pradesh High Court on Thursday in a oath ceremony at Raj Bhawan Shimla. The oath was administered by Himachal Pradesh Governor   Rajender Vishwanath Arlekar. Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur, ministers Mahender Singh Thakur and Suresh Bhardwaj, leader of opposition Mukesh Agnihotri, HP Congress president…

Dharmender Gill appointed E-in-C (projects) in Jal Shakti department

Himachal Pradesh Government has appointed Chief Engineer Jal Shakti department Mandi as Engineer- in – Chief (Projects) in the department. A notification to this effect was issued by Chief Secretary to the state government Ram Subhag Singh on the recommendation of the screening committee on Wednesday. The Governor of the state has also placed Gill…

Eleven stuck mid air in the Cable Car rescued by NDRF team at Parwanoo

Eleven persons trapped in a cable car belonging to Timber Trail Resorts (TTR), stuck mid air for nearly five hours were rescued with the help of National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) team on Monday, near Parwanoo. The tourists returning back from hotel Moksh atop the hill to the TTR resort were stuck mid air after…

Vani Gautam tops Plus Two Exam of HP Board

Girls have bagged top two positions in the merit list of Plus Two examination conducted by HP Board of School Examination Dharamshala, results of which were declared on Saturday. Two top positions in the merit have been grabbed by girls. Vani Gautam of SVPM Government Model Girls School Ghumarvin ( Bilaspur) has topped the list…

Prime Minister given warm send off

Prime Minister Narendra Modi was given warm send off from Gaggal Airport (Kangra) on Friday by Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar, Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur, Union Minister for Information and Broadcasting Anurag Thakur, Speaker Vidhan Sabha Vipin Singh Parmar and other leaders. The Prime Minister was on a two-day visit to Dharamshala to preside over…

Youths protest against new Army recruitment scheme in the state, several detained by police

Protests at several places in Himachal Pradesh were held on Thursday to oppose the new Army Recruitment Policy announced by the Central government. Hundreds of youths marched at Kangra, Mandi, Hamirpur and Chamba districts. The CITU workers also held a protest demonstration at DC Office Shimla.  At a few places the protesters tried to block…

PM accorded warm welcome on reaching SAI ground Kangra

Prime Minister Narender Modi was accorded a warm welcome on his arrival at Sports Authority of India (SAI) ground in district Kangra on Thursday. Governor Rajendra Vishvanath Arlekar and Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur welcomed the PM and the CM facilitated him with a traditional muffler. The Prime Minister has come to Dharamshala on a two day visit…

NIT Hamirpur faculty members patent their invention

Prof.  Rajeevan Chandel and Dr Rohit Dhiman, two faculty members of National Institute of Technology (NIT) Hamirpur have patented their invention “Method and System for Enriching Life in Humanly Maintained Aquaculture Environment.” The patent has been granted to them for proposing a novel integrated system for remote monitoring of the multiple aquatic parameters in industrial…

Soldiers in Indian Armed Forces would be recruited for four years- Defence Minister

The Central government has unveiled a new recruitment scheme Agnipath for recruiting Agniveer (soldiers) in three wings of the Army i.e. Indian Army, Indian Air Force and Indian Navy for a short period of four years. Announcing the scheme in New Delhi on Tuesday, Defence Minister Raj Nath Singh accompanied by the chiefs of three…

CM exhorts BJP workers to work with dedication and commitment

Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur has exhorted BJP workers and functionaries’ to work with dedication and greater commitment to fulfill the mission repeat of the BJP to bring the party back in power in the state after the next election. Addressing Tridev Sammellan at Sunder Nagar on Tuesday he thanked Union Jal Shakti Minister Gajender…

Sahitya Akadami to organize literature festival Unmesha in Shimla from June 16 to 18

The Ministry of Culture and Sahitya Akadami are organizing an international literature festival Unmesha in Shimla from June 16 to 18. The festival, being organized as part of Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav celebration would be held in Gaiety Theatre in which prominent writers like Gulzar, Sonal Man Singh, Kiran Bedi, Linda Hess, SL Bhyrappa, Chandrashekhar Kambar, Daniel…

President Ram Nath Kovind visits Atal Tunnel

The President of India Ram Nath Kovind visited the Atal Tunnel Rohtang on Saturday during his two day tour of Himachal Pradesh.   Accompanied by HP Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar and Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur the President went to see the tunnel, which connects Manali with Lahaul –Spiti district. The President’s wife, the First Lady…

President Ram Nath Kovind reaches Dharamsala

President of India Ram Nath Kovind  arrived at Dharamshala on his two-day visit to Himachal Pradesh on Friday..The President was received at SAI Ground Dharamshala by Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar and Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur, Speaker, State Vidhan Sabha Vipin Singh Parmar, Social Justice and Empowerment Minister Sarveen Chaudhary, Kangra MP Kishan Kapoor, local MLA…

HP Cabinet approves drone policy

Himachal Pradesh  has become  the first State in the country to frame Drone Policy in order to create a holistic foundations of Governance and Reform using Drones (GARUD) – an initiative for enabling policy, robust infrastructure, research and  development, market access for drone manufactures and service providers, launched by the Department of Information Technology. The…

IPS officer Arvind Digvijay Negi granted bail

A special court of the National Investigation Agency ( NIA) Delhi  has granted bail to Himachal Cadre IPS officer Arvind Digvijay Negi arrested by the agency in February this year for allegedly leaking secret information to a overground worker of the banned Lashkar- e- Taiba group. Special Judge of the NIA court Praveen Singh granted…

CM announces creation of new Police District in Nurpur

Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur has announced creation of a new police district for Nurpur covering four Assembly Constituencies in Kangra district. The CM made this announcement during his tour of the area on Thursday. He also laid foundation stones of development projects coasting Rs 163.5 crore in the area, announced to upgrade veterinary hospitals…

IIT Mandi researchers develop spectral efficient sensors for use in  5G and 6G Spectrum

 A team of researchers from the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Mandi  have developed Cooperative Spectrum Sensors (CSR) which can be used in future telecommunication technologies like 5Gand 6G wireless for enhancing spectral efficiency to establish broadband services in remote areas. The findings of the research authored by Dr Rahul Shreshtha, Assistant Professor in School of…

CRC Sunder Nagar celebrates 21st foundation day

The composite Regional Center for Skill Development, Rehabilitation and Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (CRC) Sunder Nagar celebrated its 21st Foundation Day on Monday. Dr Himangshu Dass, Director of the National Institute for Empowerment of Persons with Visual Disabilities Dehradoon was the chief guest on this occasion. Speaking on the occasion Dr Das appreciated the good…

PM Modi addresses rally on the Ridge in Shimla to celebrate 8 years of the Central government

Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed a rally on the Ridge ground Shimla to celebrate 8 years of BJP government in the Center, being celebrated as garib kalyan samellan on Tuesday. Modi walked from the Mall Road to the venue of the function and was greeted by supporters on the way. He also issued about Rs…

Daily honorarium of Home Guards enhanced from Rs. 675 to Rs. 883

Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur has announced to enhance the daily honorarium of Home Guards from Rs 675 to Rs 883.   He said, “ A  Home Guard Jawan is  getting monthly allowance of Rs 20258 per month at present  , which has been enhanced to Rs 26492 per month and the state…

HP Cabinet gives approval for filling up hundreds of posts of different categories

Himachal Pradesh Cabinet gave its nod to the state government to launch Mukhya Mantri Bal Suposhan Yojna. The meeting presided over by Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur has approved the scheme with a budgetary provision of Rs 65 crore , run jointly by departments of Women and Child Welfare, Health and Family Welfare, Elementary Educational…

IIT Madras and Harvard University researchers develop machine to check wild life poaching

The Indian Institute of Technology ( IITMadras)  and Harvard University researchers have jointly developed a novel Learning Algorithm Machine named ‘CombSGPO’ (Combined Security Game Policy Optimization), which can be helpful in saving wildlife from poaching. The research has been carried jointly by Prof . Balaraman Ravindran of Department of Computer Science and Engineering of IIT Madras in collaboration…

HRTC Bus service on Leh – Delhi route resumes

The Himachal Road Transport Corporation (HRTC) has resumed its Leh – Delhi Bus Service on one the longest bus routes. The bus service was flagged off recently from Keylong, the district Headquarter of Lahaul – Spiti district by SDM Keylong Priya Nagta. The bus starts from Leh and reaches New Delhi, covering a distance of…

HP Skill Development Corporation training youths to improve skills

Himachal Pradesh Skill Development Corporation (HPKVN) is implementing several ambitious schemes for skill development of youth to motivate them towards self-employment. The main objective of the corporation is link technical – vocational education and training (TVET) by creating infrastructure development for demand driven skill training to train youths. Different training centers of the corporation are…

CM inaugurates Silk Seed Production Center at Thunag

Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur inaugurated Silk Seed Production Center and Sub Office Building of Construction Workers Welfare Board at Thunag in his Seraj Assembly Constituency on Wednesday.   Addressing a public meeting at Thunag, Thakur said, “Nearly twelve thousand workers are involved in sericulture and opening of a silk seed production center would boost…

State government to handover police constable’s recruitment probe to CBI – CM

Himachal Pradesh Government has decided to handover the police recruitment paper leak case to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI). Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur said, “We have decided to handover the ongoing probe in leaking of paper for screening test for recruitment of 1134 police constables in the state to the CBI after the…

NIA to file charge sheet against Himachal cadre IPS officer Arvind Digvijay Negi

The National Investigation Agency (NIA) after investigation has held Himachal cadre IPS officer Arvind Digvijay Negi guilty of allegedly sharing documents related to sensitive information with overground workers of Lashkar-e- -Taiba (LeT), while working with the NIA.    The NIA had arrested Negi on February 18 to probe the accusations against him and raided his…

JP Nadda attends samman samaroh in Kullu

National BJP president JP Nadda held a road show in Kullu during his visit to attend a samman samaroh on Friday. Accompanied by Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur and state president Suresh Kashyap, Nadda was taken to Rath ground in an open jeep and was welcomed by the supporters on the way. Addressing the occasion,…

Former Communication Minister cremated with state honours

The mortal remains of former Union Communication Minister and veteran Congress leader Pandit Sukh Ram were consigned to flames at Hanuman Ghat Mandi on Thursday afternoon with state honours. The funeral pyre was lit by Anil Sharma local MLA, elder son of Pandit Sukh Ram while his younger brother Anup Sharma and other family members…

Veteran Mandi leader Pandit Sukh Ram passes away

Former Union Communication Minister and one of the stalwarts of Congress politics in Himachal Pradesh, Pandit Sukh Ram (95) passed away in All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) New Delhi at about 1.30 am last night. According to his family sources, “Pandit Sukh Ram breathed his last at about 1.30 am in the AIIMS…

HP Cabinet decides to fill up 200 post of Ayurvedic Medical Officers

Himachal Pradesh Government has decided to fill up 200 posts of Ayurvedic Medical Officers in the Ayush Department; one hundred of these would be filled up directly and 100 would be recruited batch wise. This decision was taken in the Cabinet Meeting presided over by Chief Minster Jai Ram Thakur at Shimla on Monday.  It…

Himachal put on high alert

Himachal Pradesh Police has put the state on high alert after graffiti in support of “Khalistan” was spotted in the premises of HP Vidhan Sabha building at Dharamshala. The Director General of Himachal Police Sanjay Kundu has directed SPs of all districts to remain on high alert after the incident. An organization named Sikh for…

Pandit Sukh Ram shifted to AIIMS New Delhi

Former Union Communication Minister and Congress veteran Pandit Sukh Ram, who was admitted to Mandi Zonal Hospital on Friday after a brain stroke, has been shifted to All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) New Delhi in the state government helicopter. Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur, who is on tour of Mandi district visited Pandit…

Screening test for HP Police constable’s posts scrapped

Himachal Pradesh Government has scrapped the written test for recruitment of police constables in the state after reports of paper leakage.  Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur said, “The written test for recruitment of constables in H.P. Police conducted on March 27 in all districts, has been scrapped after certain doubts were raised about paper leakage.” He…

Pandit Sukh Ram suffers brain stroke , admitted to hospital

Veteran Congress leader and former Union Communication Minister Pandit Sukh Ram has been admitted in Mandi Zonal hospital after he suffered a brain stroke today .   A family source of the nonagenarian Congress leader, popularly called as ‘Panditji’, said, “he felt uneasy and suffered a brain stroke on Friday and admitted to Zonal Hospital…

HP government class III posts to be filled on the basis of written tests

Himachal Pradesh Government has decided to amend the selection criteria for all Class –III government jobs and discontinue the process of giving 15 marks to candidates on the basis of evaluation. As per the notification issued by the Chief Secretary to HP Government Ram Subhag Singh on Wednesday from Shimla, “All Class III government services…

CM inaugurates development projects and lays foundation stones in Chhatri area

Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur inaugurated and laid foundation stones of development projects amounting to Rs 14.09 crore in Chhatri area during his tour in Seraj Assembly Constituency on Tuesday. Addressing a public meeting at Chaplandi the CM announced to open a degree college at Chhatri, up gradation of middle schools Vohal Sainj Bagdathach to…

Tarun Kapoor appointed advisor in the PMO

Former HP Cadre IAS officer Tarun Kapoor has been appointed as an Advisor in the Prime Minister’s Office, New Delhi in the rank of Secretary to Government of India. Kapoor has served in the state on various assignments.

IIT Mandi researchers identify molecule for developing oral medicine of diabetes

 A team of researchers from the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Mandi has identified a molecule which can be used in the drugs for treatment of Type 1 and Type 11 diabetes.   The molecule called PK2 is able to trigger the release of insulin by the pancreas and can potentially be used as an orally administered…

CM inaugurates seventeen upgraded schools

Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur inaugurated seventeen upgraded government schools in his Seraj Assembly Constituency, virtually from Shimla on Sunday. Addressing people on this occasion Thakur said, “The move would help students to study in the schools near their homes saving them from travelling long distances and assured additional buildings would be constructed soon in…

Pratibha Singh appointed HPCC Chief

All India Congress Committee (AICC) president Sonia Gandhi has appointed Pratibha Singh, Mandi MP and wife of six time former CM Virbhadra Singh, as the new president of Himachal Pradesh Congress Committee (HPCC).   A press release issued by the AICC said, “Pratibha Virbhadra Singh has been appointed PCC president, Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu as chairman…

Central government in the process of granting tribal status to Hatti Community – CM

Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur said, “The Central government is in the process of granting tribal status to the Hatti community residing in the Trans –Giri area of Sirmour district.” After meeting Union Home Minister Amit Shah in New Delhi on Monday, the CM said, “I and state BJP chief Suresh Kashyap along with MLAs…

Joint venture agreement for Balh valley airport signed

The signing of a joint venture agreement for development of Greenfield Airport at Nagchala in Balh valley of Mandi district, on Monday between Ministry of Civil Aviation and HP government at New Delhi, has given a fresh push to the dream project of Himachal Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur. The agreement was signed in the…

HP Congress looking towards Central leadership as political activity gear up in the state

As the ruling BJP and Aam Aadmi Party ( AAP), with an eye on the Assembly Election due in December this year in Himachal Pradesh, have started political campaigns,   the leaders of opposition Congress seem busy in settling leadership issues. The state unit of the BJP has become quite active to counter anti-incumbency reflected in…

HP government making efforts to strengthen PRIs – Govt spokesman

The Himachal government is making every effort to strengthen Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs) in the state.   During the year 2018-19, Rs. 850.17 crore were sanctioned from the 14th Finance Commission for the development works in PRIs while during 2020-21 the Central government granted Rs 429 crores. District Resource Centres are being set-up in district Sirmaur…

CM announces concessions on 75th Himachal Day function

The 75th Himachal Day was celebrated throughout the state on Friday with great enthusiasm. Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur unfurled the National Flag in the state level Himachal day function at Chamba and took salute from the marching contingents of Police, Home Guards, NCC and NSS students. SDPO Salooni Mayank Chaudhary commanded the parade. On this…

AIIMS Bilaspur near completion – JP Nadda

 BJP president JP Nadda said,” Works in All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) Bilaspur are near completion and now emphases are on appointing doctors and completing the infrastructure to provide better health facilities to people, at the earliest.” Nadda, a Rajya Sabha Member, after holding a review meeting of AIIMS Bilaspur along with CM…

IIT Mandi researchers develop method of soil stabilization using bacteria

The IIT Mandi researchers have developed a harmless bacterium named S. Pasteurii which hydrolyses urea to precipitate calcite and can help in improving soil shear strength of fields in hilly areas. This study would help in designing microbial methods which can protect fields from soil erosion in wake of geo-disasters. Since natural resources are used to…

Daughters perform last rites breaking age old traditions

Breaking an age old patriarchal tradition of performing last rites by only a male member in the Hindu Society, two sisters not only lit the funeral pyre of their mother but are also performing other rituals as per traditions.   Shakuntla Saini , a lecture of economics in Government School Churag and her sister  Madhu Bala…

State government not to pay income tax of Ministers and MLAs – State Cabinet

Himachal Pradesh Cabinet has decided to promulgate an ordinance to omit section 11 – A & 12 of Salaries and Allowances of MLAs and Ministers regarding payment of income tax presently by the state government. After this amendment the income tax on salaries given to ministers and MLAs will be paid by themselves.   The…

CM Jai Ram Thakur exhorts party workers on BJP’s Foundation Day in his Assembly Constituency

Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur, while participating in the BJP Foundation Day Function in his Assembly Constituency, honoured party activists and exhorted them to work with more vigor. Addressing a  public meeting at Thunag on the occasion Thakur said , “ It was on this auspicious day that BJP came into existence at Mumbai with…

Impressive show by Aam Aadmi Party in Mandi

In its first display of strength in Himachal Pradesh, the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) has put up an impressive show as thousands of the party supporters thronged to a road show ( Tiranga Yatra) organized by Delhi and Punjab CMs Arvind Kejriwal and Bhagwant Mann, respectively, in Mandi on Wednesday.   The roadshow started from…

University at Mandi to start functioning soon – CM

Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur said,” The decision to start a second university in the state is a historic step and would go a long way in providing quality education to students of 18 colleges of this region.” Addressing students of Vallabh Government College Mandi on its annual prize distribution day on Tuesday, Thakur said,…

Driver dies- thirty nine passengers injured in bus accident

The driver of a HRTC bus has died and thirty nine passengers injured in a bus accident on Chandigarh – Manali National Highway near Pandoh this Monday morning when a Shimla bound HRTC bus coming from Manali hit a retaining wall at about 10 am. A Police source said, “Nand Kishor, a resident of Dhandal…

Mukhyamantri Shagun Yojna proving a boon- govt spokesman

Mukhya Mantri Shagun Yojna launched by the state government is proving a boon to a large number of girls from the weaker section as the daughters of BPL families are being given Rs 31000 as shagun at the time of their marriage. A government spokesman said, “Rs. 13,757800 have been given to 4437 girls from the weaker…

CM announces to give higher pay scales for left out employees

Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur has announced to give higher pay scales to state government employees on completion of two years term for regularization of service, to those employees who were not given the scale prior to January 3, 2022.   Addressing mahasamelan of the employees on Sunday at Shimla, Thakur also announced higher pay…

State government withdraws provisions of HP Disaster Management Act invoked to contain COVID -19

HP Government has decided to withdraw the provision of Himachal Pradesh Disaster Management Act invoked in the state in the wake of COVID -19 pandemic with immediate effect. As per notification issued in this regard by Chief Secretary to the state government Ram Subhag Singh states, “Taking note of overall improvement in the COVID situation…

BJP to counter Kejariwal’s road show in Mandi with PM’s virtual address

To counter Delhi CM Arvind Kejariwal and Punjab CM Bhagwant Mann’s road show in Mandi on April 6, Himachal Unit of BJP would be holding Assembly Constituency level meetings throughout the state to be addressed by Prime Minister Narender Modi virtually, on April 6 the BJP’s foundation day.    Since BJP observes its foundation day…

Nationwide strike call affects banking and insurance services in the state

The banking and LIC services including working in few other institutions was affected at few places in the state as strike was observed on the call of trade unions opposing privatization of certain banks, implementation of labour laws etc on Monday. The nationwide call for two days’ strike has been given by Central Trade Unions…

Former PSO of CM booked for alleged manhandling of a women

Former Personal Security Officer (PSO) of the CM, Balwant Singh has been booked by police on the complaint of Kusla Devi of village Chalagi under Bahli Chowki Police Station. SP Mand Shalini Agnihotri said, “Balwant Singh has been booked for allegedly manhandling and threatening the complainant while working in her fields on Saturday under sections…

CM thanks PM for extending free ration scheme for poor

Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur has thanked Prime Minister Narender Modi for extending Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Ann Yojna (PMGKAY) for another six months. The CM said, “Under the scheme food security to weaker sections of society is being provided by the Central government since April 2020 after the outbreak of COVID -19 pandemic and…

Prof. Sikandar Kumar elected unopposed to Rajya Sabha

BJP nominee Prof. Sikandar Kumar has been elected unopposed for the lone vacant seat of Rajya Sabha from Himachal Pradesh on Wednesday afternoon on the last date of withdrawal of the nomination papers.    The Secretary of Vidhan Sabha handed over the certificate of the election to Prof. Sikandar Kumar. Prof. Kumar was left the…

MOUs worth Rs 810 crores signed for Medical Device Park – CM

Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur said, “As many as 15 MOUs worth Rs 810 crores have been signed with entrepreneurs to set up units in Medical Devices Park Nalagarh in Solan district.”   He said, “The Medical Device Park is being set up at the cost of Rs 350 crores and the Central government would…

Prof. Sikandar files nomination for the Rajya Sabha seat- likely to be elected unopposed

BJP nominee for Rajya Sabha seat from Himachal Pradesh Prof. Sikandar Kumar, Vice Chancellor of HPU, filed his nomination papers for the Rajya Sabha seat on Monday. Prof. Sikandar , accompanied by Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur, BJP state president Suresh Kashyap and other leaders, filed three sets of nomination papers to the VIdhan Sabha…

State Cabinet approves Excise Policy for -2022-23; Country Liquor made cheaper

Himachal Pradesh Cabinet has given its approval to Excise Policy for 2022-23, which envisage to collect revenue of Rs 2131 crorers during this period with an overall growth of 14 percent than the last year and likely to earn Rs 264 crores more to the state exchequer .   The Cabinet Meeting chaired by Chief…

CM participates in the closing ceremony of Sujanpur Holi Festival

The famous Holi Festival of Sujanpur came to an end on Friday. Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur was the chief guest in the closing ceremony. Thakur participated in the shobha yatra (traditional procession) along with other dignitaries. He participated in the pagri ceremony and paid obeisance in murli manohar temple. Later, in the evening Thakur…

BJP nominates VC of HPU Prof. Sikandar Kumar for Rajya Sabha seat

The Central Election Committee of BJP has nominated Prof. Sikandar Kumar, Vice Chancellor of Himachal Pradesh University Shimla, for the Rajya Sabha seat from Himachal Pradesh. The list of four candidates including Prof. Sikandar Kumar was released by the Election Committee from New Delhi on Friday. The Election for one Rajya Sabha seat being vacated…

Holi celebrated in Mandi one day ahead

The Festival of Colours –Holi was celebrated with great enthusiasm and gaiety at the famous Seri Manch of Mandi on Thursday, one day ahead. There is a tradition of celebrating the Holi Festival one day in advance as the festival would be celebrated on Friday elsewhere. The Festival began by paying obeisance at Madho Rai…

JBT teachers to be recruited batch -wise : CM

Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur has announced to start batch wise recruitment for vacant JBT teacher’s posts in the state. Addressing a delegation of HP Shishak Mahasangh at Shimla on Tuesday the CM said, “To give employment opportunities to trained JBT teachers the batch wise process of recruitment would be started soon.” He…

Balh Bachao Kisan Sangharsh Samiti organizes protest to oppose Airport

The Balh Bachao Kisan Sangharsh Samiti held a protest demonstration in front of SDM office Balh at Kansa Chowk to oppose the airport project in Balh valley on Tuesday. Hundreds of farmers from Dhaban, Tawan, Sianh, Kummi, Kathial and Chhatru assembled at Kansa Chowk and later marched to SDM office to submit a memorandum to…

All students stranded in Ukraine Evacuated : CM

Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur informed the HP State Assembly,  “As per information available with us all students and other people from the state stranded in Ukraine have been evacuated safely and no one is now left there.” Making this statement in the Assembly on Monday he said, “The Central government had dealt…

Gaining Himachal would be a challenge for Exuberant AAP

Though, Aam Aadmi Party’s (AAP) leadership and supporters are exuberant after landslide victory of the party in Punjab Assembly election and have set eyes on Himachal Assembly Election due in 2022 but the task to achieve this goal seems not that easy. The AAP supporters in the state look quite euphoric since Punjab Election have…

CM pleads case of Scheduled Tribe Status to Hatti Community with Home Minister

Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur called on Union Home Minister Amit Shah in New Delhi on Friday to plead the case of scheduled tribe status for Hatti Community living in Trans – Giri area of Sirmour district. Pleading the case for giving ST status to the Community , CM said , “ Jaunsar Bawar area…

Elections for 13 Rajya Sabha seats on March 31

The Election Commission of India has announced an election schedule to fill up thirteen seats falling vacant in Rajya Sabha from six states, on March 31st.   As per information from the Election Commission the elections would be held for five seats from Punjab, three in Kerala, two in Assam and one each from Himachal…

NITI Ayog Member Dr VK Saraswat lauds IIT Mandi on its Foundation Day

Member of the NITI Ayog Dr Vijay Kumar Saraswat and Chancellor of JNU, who was the Chief Guest on 13th Foundation Day function of Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Mandi said, “IIT Mandi can play a vital role in promoting valuable medicinal plants found in this part of the Himalayan region, besides finding solution to specific problems like…

Himachal striving hard to become first state in the country using cent percent Green Energy

Himachal Pradesh is likely to become as first state in the country meeting its entire requirement of energy through Renewable and Green Energy. Giving this a thrust Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur has made a statement in his Budget Speech to minimize dependence on thermal power and phase it out by 2034.   At present…

CM presents Rs 51,365 crores Budget for 2022-23, makes several announcements in the election year

Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur presented 2022-23 budgets for the state with the budget provision of Rs 51,365 crores with a deficit of Rs 3993 crores and GDP growth of 8.3 percent for 2021-22. The CM, who also holds the portfolio of Finance, presented his fifth and last budget of the current tenure of HP…

One dies and fourteen injured in bus accident

One passengers lost life and fourteen others injured on Thursday at about 1 pm after a HRTC bus no HP28A7228 plying on Mandi –Sarkaghat road veered off the road near Gahar.    A police source said , “ Leela Devi of Dhalwan died on the spot in this accident and injured include Anil Kumar &…

The week long Mandi shivratri festival begins

The weeklong Shivratri festival of Mandi began here on Wednesday with a great gaiety and fervor as thousands of people thronged to participate in the opening day festivities in  Mandi town.  Hundreds of deities carried by kardars on their shoulders accompanied by drummers and dancing devotees marched from Madho Rai temple to the Paddal ground….

CM interacts with the students stuck up in Ukraine

Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur  interacting with the students stranded in different cities of Ukraine assured them all help from the Central and State government for their safe evacuation to India .  In a video conversation with few students Thakur said, “The state government is making every effort to bring back the students stuck up…

Week long Shivratri Festival to begin in Mandi on March 2

The Mandi Shivratri festival would be held from March 2nd to 8 and Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur would be the chief guest on the opening day of the festival. Giving this information at Mandi on Saturday DC Mandi Arindam Chaudhary said , “ The deity culture, rich traditions would get prominence during the festival while  the…

Restore old pension system in HP or stop pension of MLAs and MPs – Kaul Singh Thakur

Former Cabinet Minister and senior Congress leader Kaul Singh Thakur has demanded restoration of the old pension system for HP government employees’. Talking to media persons at Mandi on Friday he said, “The state government should restore the old pension system for the government employees or pension given to MLAs and MPs should also be…

Doctor’s strike called off after talks with the CM

The Joint Action Committee of Medical Doctors of Himachal Pradesh has called off its ongoing pen down strike in the state after all their demands were conceded by the state government. General Secretary of the Himachal Pradesh Medical Officers Association Dr Pushpender Verma said, “After talks with the Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur on Thursday…

The Leader of opposition accuses government for spying on them- CM denies

The Leader of Opposition in Himachal Pradesh Assembly Mukesh Agnihotri accused “The state government for invading on the privacy of MLA’s through Personal Security officers (PSOs) attached with them by the police department.” Leveling this allegation on Thursday Agnihotri said, “The PSO’s attached with  MLAs have been directed to report about the movement and location of…

Budget session of HP Assembly begins

The Budget Session of Himachal Pradesh Assembly started with Governor Rajender V Arleakar’s address highlighting various development activities of the state on Wednesday. The opposition Congress walked mid way from the Governor’s address saying, “The address is far from the truth “. Later, Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur criticized the Congress leaders for their irresponsible…

Former CBI director demands transfer of probe against AD Negi to CBI

Former Director of the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) M Nageshwar Rao and two former IPS officers of Himachal cadre have demanded transfer of probe against IPS officer Arvind Digvijay Negi to CBI. Negi had recently been arrested by  the National Investigation Agency (NIA) where he worked for several years for allegation of supplying secret information…

CM returns to Shimla from AIIMS New Delhi

Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur returned to Shimla on Tuesday after he was discharged from AIIMS New Delhi today. The Chief Minister was admitted to the AIIMS a few days back for the routine check up after chest pain. The state government officials and BJP workers welcomed the CM on his arrival at the Annandale…

Six women burnt to death and 14 seriously injured in a fire at illicit fire-cracker factory in Una district

Six women were burnt to death and fourteen others injured at Bathu under Haroli sub division of Una district of HP on Tuesday morning after a reported blast resulting in massive fire in an illicit fire cracker factory. SP Una Arijit Sen said, “Six women were burnt to death and 14 others have received serious…

Bhumi Adhigrahan Sangh demands implementation of Land Acquisition Act-2013

Bhumi Adhigrahan Prabhavit Sangh has warned the state government to implement the land Acquisition Act 2013 and pay times compensation to evacuees, whose land has been acquired for widening of roads and projects. Talking to media persons at Mandi on Monday President of the Sangh BR Kaundal and Coordinator Joginder Walia said, “ The state…

HP Police in tight spot after arrest of Negi

The arrest of decorated HP cadre IPS officer Arvind Digvijay Negi by The National Investigating Agency (NIA), who worked for the agency since its inception, on the allegations of supplying sensitive information to terrorist organization Lashkar Toiba over ground workers, has put the HP Police in a tight spot. Negi, posted SP recently, was also…

CM admitted to AIIMS Delhi

Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur was admitted to All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) New Delhi on Friday for routine check up.  A spokesman of the state government said, “Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur has been admitted to the AIIMS New Delhi for a routine check up on the advice of doctors and is…

Doctors pen down strike to continue as talks with CM fails to materialize

As proposed talks between Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur and Joint Coordination Committee (JCC) of agitating medical doctors could not materialize due to some health issue of the CM, the JCC has decided to continue their pen down strike but has deferred the earlier threat of going on  indefinite strike from Saturday. The JCC has…

Educational Institutions to open from February 17 in the state

Himachal Pradesh Cabinet has decided to open all educational institutions, gyms, cinema halls and allow langars in the state from February 17. The meeting presided over by Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur has also decided to give revised pension and family pension from February 1st for 1.73 lakh pensioners. In addition to these nearly 43000…

Bio Diversity Park to promote research and propagation of endangered herbs

Himachal Pradesh Government has taken a new initiative to conserve, propagate and demonstrate rare valuable herbs & medicinal plants in a Biodiversity Park being raised at Bhulah near Janjehli in Mandi district.  The Bio- Diversity Park at Bhulah would help researchers and people involved in trading of herbs & plants found in this region of…

DA of state government employee’s enhanced by 3 percent

Himachal Pradesh Government has enhanced Dearness Allowance ( DA) of state government employee’s  by 3 percent raising it to 31 percent with effect from July 1, 2021 . A notification in this regard has been issued by Additional Chief Secretary Finance Prabodh Saxena . As per notification the DA would be paid in March 2022…

Night Curfew lifted in Himachal Pradesh

Himachal Pradesh Cabinet has decided to lift the night curfew imposed due to Covid-19 pandemic in the state. The meeting chaired by Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur has also decided to allow social, religious, cultural and political gatherings including marriage functions with fifty percent capacity for indoor and outdoor functions. It also gave its approval…

Traffic restored on major roads – CM

Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur said all roads closed due to heavy snowfall in the state have been opened and water and power supply restored in record time He said, “All major district roads have been restored for vehicular traffic and efforts are being made to open link roads for normalizing smooth life;  adequate men and…

CM opens PWD Division at Thalot in Mandi district

Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur inaugurated a PWD Division at Thalot during his tour of Mandi district on Saturday. Addressing a public meeting at Aut he said, “The issue of giving adequate compensation to four lane evacuees would be taken up with the authorities.”   In his address Thakur made several announcements i.e. to up-grade Veterinary…

Mandi shivratri festival to be organized from March 2nd to 8

The shivratri festival of Mandi would be organized this year from March 2 to 8  with enthusiasm and as per cultural tradition and adopting COVID protocol. This was decided in the shivratri review committee on Friday at Mandi presided over by Jal Shakti Minister Mahender Singh Thakur.   The minister said, “Three jalebs (traditional processions) would…

Notification to open University in Mandi this month – Education Minister

 Education Minister Govind Thakur said, “Notification to open the second university of the state in Mandi would be issued this month.” Talking to media persons here on Thursday the minister said , “ The credit for opening this university goes to Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur as he has been pursuing the case of opening…

Notification issued to give COVID incentive of Rs 1500 to ASHA workers

Himachal Pradesh government has issued a notification to pay a COVID incentive of Rs 1500 to ASHA workers of the state as per announcement made by Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur. Health and Family Welfare Minister Dr Saizal said, “More than 7500 ASHA workers of the state are playing a significant role in creating health…

AINEF demands new pay scales for HP govt employees

 Secretary of All India National Educational Federation Pawan Mishra has demanded new pay scales for employees with an initial start equivalent to Punjab pay scale. Talking to media persons on Monday at Mandi, Mishra said, “The state government has given relief to state government employees but it would be prudent to remove pay anomalies, discrepancies…

COVID restrictions eased, Budget Session from February 23rd to March 15

Himachal Pradesh Cabinet has decided to ease out COVID restriction in the state and hold the budget session of HP Assembly from February 23rd to March 15. The Cabinet Meeting chaired by Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur held at Shimla on Monday decided to open summer closing schools from February 3rd for IX to XII…

Eleven lakh consumers to be benefited

Nearly 11 lakh consumers are likely to be benefitted by the decision of the state government to provide free electricity to users consuming  60 units per month and of those using 125 units at a subsidised rate of Rs one per unit . A spokesman of the Himachal Pradesh State Electricity Board Limited said more…

CM gives Shikhar Samman

Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur while presiding over the Shikhar Samman  ceremony on Saturday said, “The state government is committed to conserving the rich culture, heritage and literature of the state and has launched several schemes to encourage writers, artists, craftsmen and artisans.” He said, “Literature plays an important role in igniting the mind and…

Former Indian Hockey Captain Charanjit Singh passes away

Former Indian Hockey Captain and two times Olympian Padma Shri Charanjit Singh passed away in his native village Mairi in Amb sub –division of Una District of Himachal Pradesh on Thursday. In his nineties Charanjit Singh was ailing with age related problems. Charanjit Singh was captain of the Gold Medal winning Indian Hockey Team in…

CM calls upon Union Health and Railway Ministers

Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur called upon Union Health and Family Welfare Minister Mansukh Mandaviya at New Delhi on Thursday and urged him to sanction fifty ambulances to reduce the response time as per prescribed limits in the  hill areas., besides requesting to appoint 58 more ASHA workers under NUHM and 176 in NUHM component for…

CM congratulates award winners

Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur has congratulated two Padam Shri award winners from the state Vidyanand Saraik,  Lalita Vakil and winners of the Police Medals.  He said, “While Lalita Vakil, hailing from Chamba has been working for the promotion of Chamba Rumal for the past 50 years this award is recognition for her work and…

Governor unfurls National Flag on the Republic Day function at Shimla

The 73rd Republic Day was celebrated with gaiety and fervour across the state on Wednesday. The state level function was held at the historic Ridge Ground of Shimla where HP Governor Rajender Vishwanath Arlekar unfurled the National Flag and took salute at March past. The functions were also organised at all district headquarters and lower levels where…

CM announces 31 DA to employees on the Statehood Day

Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur has announced a 31 percent increase in DA of state government employees on the occasion of 52nd statehood day on Tuesday. Addressing a gathering after unfurling the tricolour and taking salute from the marching contingents of police, Home Guards and NCC cadets at Thodo ground Solan the CM said, “The…

Nexus in illicit liquor trade very strong

Though the Special Investigating Team (SIT) constituted to bust the mafia involved in illicit trade of spurious liquor after death of seven persons from Slappar area after drinking  liquor few days back have arrested nearly  a dozen persons in this case the involvement  of few district level Congress leaders have surprised many .   The callousness of certain…

Judicial probe demanded to expose alleged nexus in the death of 7 persons after consuming ‘ poisonous liquor’

The death of seven persons after consuming spurious liquor at Slappar during the past two days in Mandi district has one again exposed the alleged nexus and callous attitude of certain officials in checking the menace of illicit liquor trade in Himachal Pradesh. Though such incidents have occurred at a few places earlier , it…

Five die after consuming spurious liquor

Five persons have died after consuming spurious liquor at Slappar under Sunder Nagar sub-division of Mandi district on Wednesday. The Director General of HP Police Sanjay Kundu said, “On January 17 some people had consumed branded country liquor (manufactured by VRV Foods Limited Sansarpur Terrace) at Slappar and their condition started deteriorating on January 18,…

Researchers exploring use of the Himalayan flower Rhododendron (Buransh) as a cure against COVID-19

The researchers from The Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Mandi and The International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (ICGEB) New Delhi have identified phytochemicals in the petals of rhododendron flowers which could be used to protect patients suffering from COVID -19 infections.   The findings of the research team headed by Dr Shyam Kumar Masakapali Associate…

National Ice Hockey Championship begins at Kaza

The 9th National Ice Hockey Championship began at Kaza on Sunday with the formal inauguration of the games by Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur.     The National Ice Hockey competitions, being organised for the first time in the tribal district of Lahaul – Spiti have evinced keen interests from the ice hockey lovers as several teams are…

Prof . Behera appointed new Director of IIT Mandi

Prof. Laxmidhar Behera has been appointed as the new Director of the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Mandi . Laxmidhar Behera is currently Professor of The Poonam and Prabhu Goel Chair of electrical engineering at the IIT Kanpur, besides faculty member of TCS. Having a vast teaching experience of over 26 years, Prof. Behera has contributed significantly…

HP government imposes restrictions, CM’s programmes cancelled

All programmes of Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur scheduled till January 15 have been cancelled in the wake of the spread of COVID-19 cases in the state. A spokesman of the State Government said, “Due to increase in the number of COVID-19 cases the scheduled programmes of Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur, which include tour…

Educational institutions except Medical and Nursing Colleges closed in the state till January 26

Himachal Pradesh government has decided to close all educational institutions except Medical, Dental and Nursing Colleges in the state till January 26 to ensure safety of students in the wake of rising COVID-19 cases in the state. Presiding a video conference with DCs, SPs and CMOs at Shimla on saturday Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur…

IIT researchers identify hot spots of COVID-19

Researchers from the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Mandi have identified Indian States, which have high probability of becoming the hot-spots in spread of COVID-19.  A research team headed by Dr. Sarita Azad, Associate Professor from the School of Basic Science of IIT Mandi in association with research scholar Neeraj Poonia, has identified the states on the…

Fresh restrictions including night curfew clamped to check spread of COVID-19

Himachal Pradesh Cabinet has decided to clamp night curfew in the state from 10 pm to 5 am and close cinema halls, sports complexes, indoor stadiums , swimming pools, multiplexes, gyms, langars etc to check spread of the COVID 19, besides restricting indoor social gatherings to fifty in marriage palaces and banquet halls etc. The…

Vaccination against COVID -19 for youngsters between 15 to 18 launched in the state amidst growing concern

Amidst growing concern of spread of the omicron variant of COVID -19 throughout the country, Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur launched a vaccination drive for youngsters between 15 to 18 years in the state from Vijay Senior Secondary School Mandi on Monday. Ravi Kumar, a 10+2 student of the school became the first youngster to…

PM Narendra Modi praises Jai Ram government for speedy development in the state

Prime Minister Narendra Modi said, “Today two models and ideologies are working in India; while our government works with a motto of Sabka Sath, Sabka Vikas aur Sabka Prayas, there is another model which works with the motive of  Khud ka Swarth, Pariwar ka Swarth. In Himachal first model is working which has led to speedy…

First case of omicron variant of COVID-19 virus traced in Mandi district of HP

A first case of omicron variant of COVID-19 virus has been identified in the state. A government spokesman said, “Seven samples were sent for WGS omicron variant out of which one sample has been tested positive; a 45 female from Mandi district has been detected with the virus.” He said , “ The lady had…

Security beefed up in Mandi for the PM’s rally

While Mandi town has been decked up to welcome Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his public rally on Monday the weather has made the organisers a bit worried. The PM is coming to Mandi to participate in Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav and Golden Jubilee Function of Statehood of Himachal Pradesh. Himachal Pradesh Government is also…

CM extends tax waiver for public transport till November 30, 2021

Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur has announced to extend wave off period of passengers tax, SRT and token tax for public transport operators including taxis and school buses, till November 30th. Making this announcement at Mandi on Friday Thakur said , “During the past two years economic activity in the state was hit…

NIT Hamirpur organizes programme on importance of Intellectual Property Rights

The National Institute of Technology (NIT) Hamirpur organised Sixth Virtual Awareness Programme on Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) jointly with PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry in collaboration with Office of the Controller General of Patents, Designs and TradeMarks of Government of India. Chairman of MSME Committee of PHD Dr DP Goel attended this programme as…

HP Cabinet approves revised pay scales for state government employees from January 1st

Himachal Pradesh Cabinet has decided to give revised pay scales to nearly two lakhs employees of the state government from January 1st putting a financial burden of about Rs 4000 crores on the state exchequer. The state government has already given interim relief of about Rs. 5000 crore to the employees as part of the…

MSY contributing in making Himachal self reliant

Himachal Pradesh government is laying special emphasis on giving support to local startups through mukhyamantri swalamban yojna (MSY) for starting innovative projects in the state. Through this scheme the state government is providing training to develop skills, facility of handholding and mentorship to young entrepreneurs for establishing manufacturing units, trade and identified services sector costing…

Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur announces constitution of Swaran Aayog in Himachal

Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur has announced to constitute a Swaran Aayog to take care of the interests of the upper castes in the state. Making this announcement on the first day of the Winter Session of Himachal Pradesh Vidhan Sabha at Dharamshala on Friday ,the CM said, “The people from general category in the…

OPD facility inaugurated at AIIMS Bilaspur, HP vaccinates cent percent adult population against COVID

National president of BJP Jagat Prakash Nadda said, “The All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) Bilaspur would become fully operational within next six months and people of the state and this region would be getting highly specialized medical facilities within the state.” Opening OPD facility at the AIIMS Bilaspur and facilitation ceremony of COVID…

JCC meeting opens Pandora box

Though HP state government had announced  financial benefits of several thousands crores for the state government employees in Joint Coordination Committee (JCC)  meeting with Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur last week to woo them before the next Assembly election due in 2022 , the announcements have opened a Pandora box with several employee bodies coming in…

HP cabinet decides to open University in Mandi and fill up hundreds of posts in various departments

Himachal Pradesh Cabinet has given its approval to open a University at Mandi named Sardar Patel University and bring Himachal Pradesh (Establishment and Regulation) Bill 2021 in the next session of HP State Assembly in this regard. The Cabinet Meeting presided over by Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur has also approved Draft Electric Vehicle Policy…

CM announces to give new pay scales and regularize contractual employees after two years

In the effort to woo state government employees Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur has announced to give new pay scales to them from January 1, 2016 payable from January 2022. Making several announcements in Joint Coordination Committee (JCC) meeting of the state non –gazetted Employees Federation held after six years in Shimla on Saturday  CM…

CM congratulates people for Shimla getting top position in achieving Urban Development Goals

Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur has acclaimed the collaborative efforts of the people of the state as Shimla city has earned top position in the country in Urban Development Goals Index 2021-22, released by NITI Ayog recently. Congratulating the people of the state on this occasion Thakur said, “An index of the NITI Ayog of…

PM addresses Presiding Officers’ Conference

Prime Minister Narender Modi inaugurated the 82nd all India Presiding Officers’ Conference virtually, being held at HP Himachal Vidhan Sabha Shimla and presided over by Lok Sabha speaker Om Birla on Wednesday to commemorate the centennial year of Indian Independence. In his address the Prime Minister said, “Democracy is not just a system but is…

Fresh proposal for extending runway at Greenfield Airport

Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur said, “The Airports Authority of India (AAI) has submitted a revised master plan for requirement of land to fix runway orientation of the proposed Greenfield Airport at Nagchala ( Balh) in Mandi district as per OLS chart prepared by the consultant.” Presiding over the review meeting of the Airport project,…

Schools to open from November 10

Himachal Pradesh Cabinet has decided to open schools for the students of third to seventh class from November 10 and for the students of class first and second from November 15. This decision was taken in the Cabinet meeting chaired by Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur held at Shimla on Monday which also decided to…

State government reduces VAT on petrol and diesel

After reduction of excise duty on petrol and diesel by the Central government, Himachal Pradesh government has also reduced Value Added Tax (VAT) on these products to bring the prices down and give relief to common man. The Central government had reduced the excise duty on petrol by Rs 5 per liter and Rs 10…

Congress surprises by winning all by-elections in Himachal

In a major jolt to Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur and ruling party BJP in the state, Congress candidate Pratibha Singh defeated BJP candidate Brig. Khushal Thakur (retd.) by 8766 votes in by-election for Mandi parliament seat, results for which were declared on Tuesday after counting of votes. Pratibha Singh secured 3, 69,565 votes against…

CM’s tag and inflation weigh heavy on the mind of voters in Mandi

With all set for polling to Mandi parliament by-election on October 30, the election has became a prestige issue for Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur and Congress candidate Pratibha Singh. Though BJP has fielded Brigadier Khushal Thakur (retd.) as the BJP candidate but stakes are quite high for Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur in his…

Message claiming inclusion of Himachal in map of “Khalistan” sent to journalists

A recorded message sent from an international number on mobiles of a few journalists from from so called Separatists’ Sikhs for Justice (SFJ) organization addressing the people and CM Thakur of Himachal Pradesh has claimed inclusion of Himachal in the new map of so called “Khalistan.” A recorded voice message received on my number on…

Tribal women bring change through natural farming

While farmers in many parts of Himachal Pradesh are continuing with traditional pattern of agriculture the tribal women from remote parts of Kinnaur district have become role model for others by adopting natural farming and increasing their income from farm produce manifold. Charna Devi, 49, a woman farmer from Chagaon village uphill Tapri in Kinnaur…

Farmers’ organizations demand implementation of Land Compensation Act – 2013

Several farmers’ organizations and four lane affected families held a rally in Mandi on Friday to demand implementation of Land Acquisition Compensation Act 2013 in Himachal Pradesh. The organizations from different parts of the state gathered at Seri Manch Mandi under the banner of Bhoomigrahan Prabhavit Manch and marched to DC office to submit a…

Five, of 11 trekkers gone missing, found dead

Five trekkers, out of a trekking team of 11 gone missing in Chitkul area of Kinnaur district of Himachal, have been found dead by a rescue chopper of the Army on Thursday. One injured person and a cook of the team have been located while four members are still missing. Deputy Commissioner Kinnaur Abid Hussain…

Sukh Ram family losing bargaining power for its opportunistic politics?

The politically significant Sukh Ram family, which has been influencing Himachal politics for long, is perhaps losing its bargaining power now due to its opportunistic politics. Sukh Ram, once a stalwart of Congress politics is not active now due to his advancing age but has groomed his son Anil Sharma and grandson Ashrey Sharma into…

CM’s tag and former CM’s legacy at play in Mandi parliament by-election

Though Pratibha Singh of Congress and Khushal Thakur of BJP are trying their best to woo the voters, the CM’s tag attached to Mandi and legacy of six time  former Chief Minister and tallest Congress leader late  Virbhadra Singh have  become important factors in the Mandi parliament by-election. Besides, all other issues being raised by…

Mandi lad develops skin lotion with biological resource in Germany

A Mandi lad Gaurav Mahajan has done a commendable job by developing a treatment for skin hyper- pigmentation by using biological extract through his research in Rhine-Waal University of Applied Sciences, Kleve, Germany. The new findings have been published in his theses for research carried during his Master of Science Degree in the faculty of…