Himachal Pradesh

Himachal Pradesh University (HPU) and Yuan Ze University, Taiwan, signed an MoU for educational collaboration. The agreement facilitates faculty and student exchange, research, and joint programs. Specific arrangements like dual degrees will be developed jointly, without immediate financial exchange.

Rajendra Rajan will receive the ‘Srijan Samman Puraskar’ at the 25th International Hindi Conference in Bali on August 27. The award honors his storytelling and editorship of Iravati. He will also present a story and Iravati special issues will be released during the event.

Aims to strengthen grassroots development, student exchange

Shimla stands firm: Rollback decision to shift HPTDC to D’sala, demand stakeholders

Auckland House School for Boys held its annual exhibition, 'World Within Words,' showcasing student creativity and literature. Performances included classic tales, puppet shows, and adaptations of literary works, exploring themes of humanity and culture. Interactive activities and detailed displays were well-received. The chief guest praised the exhibition.

Chamba-based initiative showcased at Harvard-Tokyo Asia Conference

A five-day training concluded at KVK Sirmaur, training 42 CRPs to promote chemical-free farming. The program aimed to reduce the harmful effects of agricultural chemicals by adopting natural farming methods. Participants gained knowledge and practical experience through farm visits. The CRPs will act as community-level motivators, with tools and resources provided.

Governor Shiv Pratap Shukla participated in a Shimla plantation program organized by the Red Cross and Forest Department. He stressed the need for environmental balance due to natural disasters, citing deforestation, pollution, and unplanned development. He highlighted plantation's importance for soil, water, and air quality.

Funds dry up after change of government; abandoned building now overtaken by wild bushes

The Palampur-Hamirpur highway widening project, requiring Rs 185 crore, is stalled for over two years despite a submitted DPR. The Union Ministry hasn't approved or objected. The Chief Minister is lobbying for funds, open to either state or NHAI execution. The road urgently needs widening due to increased traffic.

Himachal Pradesh monsoon caused widespread loss of life and property due to unplanned construction, rapid urbanization, and ignored building regulations. Poor drainage, riverside encroachment, and lack of groundwater recharge exacerbate the problem. Experts recommend stricter TCP laws, planned urbanization, and river training to mitigate future disasters.

The Manimahesh Yatra is suspended due to heavy rain, landslides, and road closures, posing safety risks. The DDMA ordered the suspension and is providing shelter and aid to stranded pilgrims. Further travel to Chamba is restricted, and authorities are working to restore conditions.

A 132 kV power tower in Nurpur is at risk of collapse due to erosion from highway construction, causing fear among residents. Despite funds from NHAI, the Punjab State Power Corporation Ltd. (PSPCL) hasn't taken action. The power supply was cut off to mitigate immediate danger, but the tower remains a threat.

Cantonment land dispute leaves 22 families rootless in their own hometown

With relentless rains swelling reservoir, officials place NDRF, SDRF on high alert

A BJP workshop in Una trained newly elected office-bearers. Key topics included assignments, party programs, political strategy, social media, and public relations. The party will observe a 'Sewa Pakhwada' from September 17 to October 2 to mark PM Modi's birthday.

The National Green Tribunal (NGT) is investigating illegal construction in Himachal Pradesh, citing violations of environmental laws. The NGT took suo motu notice of reports detailing unregulated building and lack of government oversight, particularly in the wake of the 2023 floods. Replies from relevant agencies are due before the next hearing on November 11.

Says Himachal will become leading state in natural farming by 2027

Torrential rain in Himachal Pradesh has closed 795 roads, including two National Highways. Mandi district is the worst affected. Power and water supplies are disrupted. A red weather warning is in effect for Chamba and Kangra. Educational institutions are closed in several districts.

Himachal Pradesh's Chief Minister Sukhu challenged the opposition to seek an ED probe into the Pekhubela solar project amid allegations of wrongdoing. An MLA criticized the project, claiming it was poorly designed and favored a company. Sukhu defended the project, stating it was temporarily halted due to rain and will restart September 15th.

Heavy rain and snowfall caused widespread disruption in Himachal Pradesh. Lahaul and Spiti, Kullu, and Mandi were severely affected by flash floods, landslides, and road closures. Educational institutions are closed, and authorities advise residents to avoid risky areas and stay informed due to a red alert for continued heavy rainfall.

Solan district faces severe weather impacts. Heavy rains caused 23 link road closures and minor NH-5 disruptions. A school and nearby structures were evacuated due to landslides. All schools and educational institutions are closed due to orange alert. Power outages and water supply interruptions were also reported.

Villagers from Rachhwana, Trambi, and Gatarbag protested a construction company's illegal dumping near their villages, claiming it caused damage from cascading debris after heavy rain. They reported blocked roads, damaged homes, and isolation. Officials intervened, and the company promised relief.

Kangra district is under a red alert for heavy rainfall on Tuesday, leading to school closures and emergency measures. Field officers are on duty, and disaster relief teams are deployed. 231 bus services were affected due to heavy rain and landslides. Residents are advised to stay safe and report emergencies to helpline 1077.

CM mourns death of three pilgrims from Punjab, says follow advisories