Himachal Pradesh

According to the top court’s cause list, the matter would be heard again by the same Bench on August 8

The marriage was performed with the consent of both families and according to local rituals and customs

Highway havoc: NHAI’s hill-cutting project blamed for continuous landslides

Himachal Pradesh's government approved lottery operations to generate revenue, facing opposition from the BJP. The state, burdened by debt and lacking central funds, seeks additional income from sources like lotteries, which were previously banned. Critics fear potential social harm, while the government cites legal grounds and revenue potential.

Yellow warning issued for various districts

Two pilgrims died and over 1,000 were rescued from the Kinnaur Kailash yatra route. Flash floods triggered by a cloudburst caused bridge collapses and stranded pilgrims. The yatra is temporarily suspended due to the weather conditions.

Two Kangra roads are temporarily closed due to repair work. The Harpukhar-Chanota road is closed until September 4th, with alternate routes via Bharwain and Paragpur. The Kathog-Muhal-Harad road is closed until August 10th, using Dehriyan-Muhal and Muhal-Jalandhar alternatives.

A flashflood in Urtu village, Kullu district, destroyed homes, shops, vehicles, and orchards. Several families are homeless. Road damage near Urtu has cut off villages. No fatalities were reported. Officials are assessing damage and beginning relief efforts, with road repairs underway.

A cloudburst triggered a mudslide in Katli village, forcing 60 residents to evacuate their homes due to boulders. The villagers seek boulder removal to prevent further damage and are receiving aid from the authorities. A bridge in Nalagarh was also damaged by heavy rain and unchecked mining, causing an estimated loss of Rs 50 lakh.

Public assemblies restricted in city till September 30

Police in Rohru, Shimla, arrested three inter-state drug peddlers: Rohit Kumar, Vishal Dutta, and Deepika. They were caught with 16.77 grams of heroin ('chitta'). The arrests followed a tip-off, leading to the seizure of the drugs and the initiation of an investigation under the NDPS Act.

Himachal Pradesh's Revenue Minister Negi met the Governor to discuss tribal region issues, specifically Kinnaur and Lahaul-Spiti. A key topic was the allotment of nautor land to tribal residents, with 20,000 applications pending. Implementation requires the Governor to suspend the Forest Conservation Act.

Over 20,000 Himachal Pradesh farmers are adopting natural farming, producing organic crops like wheat, maize, and turmeric. Government subsidies support this shift, covering cow purchases, transportation, and market fees. Farmers report reduced costs, increased profits, and healthier produce, leading to sustainable agriculture and rural empowerment.

The Swadeshi Jagran Manch (SJM) will hold a state-wide protest on August 10, burning foreign-made products. The campaign, part of the 'Swadeshi Suraksha & Swavalamban Abhiyan,' aims to promote self-reliance by boycotting foreign goods (especially from China and the US), promoting local businesses, and reducing foreign dependency.

Efforts on to restore structures before end of September, says Baijnath SDM

The State Taxes and Excise Department has registered 247 cases and seized over 10,500 liters of illicit liquor since April 1st, with significant recoveries in multiple regions. The public is encouraged to report illegal activity through provided contact methods.

When the signal fades Businesses, students and professionals face major setbacks as internet blackout exposes digital vulnerability

Himachal Pradesh University plans to establish three centers of excellence: digital humanities, climate change resilience, and rural development. A proposal will be submitted to ANRF India, with potential for a Rs 25 crore grant. A team of mentors has been formed for proposal development.

HPSEBL will build two hydroelectric projects (33 MW total) in Chamba district for Rs 561 crore within four years, generating 128 million units of power annually and Rs 63.5 crore in revenue. Construction will provide local jobs. The Uhal III project generated 180 million units, yielding Rs 90 crore.

Blinded by apathy? Demand to fill reserved posts unheard, even after 650 days of agitation

‘Dharamsala constituency heading towards becoming tourism capital of state’

Abhiyudaya Bansal from Career Academy achieved fourth place in the state NEET exam with a score of 586. Other academy students also performed well, with Kajal securing 79th place. Students credited the academy's study material and coaching for their success. Career Academy's chairman highlighted the academy's consistent strong performance.

Himachal Pradesh prioritizes youth skill enhancement and employment. The government aims to align training with market needs and promote self-reliance. A comprehensive action plan and effective training programs are being implemented. Over 4,750 youth received certifications in diverse fields.

A 50-day workshop in Kangra, sponsored by the Indian government, trained 30 local artisans, primarily women, to create wooden décor inspired by Kangra miniature paintings. The initiative revived the art form, providing stipends and creating sustainable economic opportunities.

Once deserted by time, the twin heritage villages in Kangra valley are witnessing a quiet revival led by descendants of their original builders