Month: July 2025

Himachal Pradesh has been significantly impacted by the ongoing monsoon season of 2025, with cumulative losses reaching an estimated Rs 81,803.12 lakhs as of July 15, officials said on Wednesday.

According to officials, the State Emergency Operations Centre (SEOC) under the Department of Revenue-DM Cell, Government of Himachal Pradesh, has been actively monitoring the situation.

The total death toll during this monsoon season (June 20, 2025, to July 15, 2025) stands at 106 across various districts, they said.

Rain-related incidents, including landslides, flash floods, cloudbursts, drowning, lightning, snake bites, electrocution, and falls from trees/steep rocks, have accounted for 62 deaths, they added.

The district-wise breakdown of these rain-related deaths is as follows: Bilaspur (5), Chamba (3), Hamirpur (8), Kangra (14), Kinnaur (1), Kullu (4), Lahaul & Spiti (1), Mandi (17), Shimla (3), Sirmaur (1), and Una (5).

In addition to rain-related fatalities, road accidents have claimed 44 lives across the state during the same period. Bilaspur reported 3 deaths, Chamba 6, Hamirpur 1, Kangra 3, Kinnaur 5, Kullu 7, Lahaul & Spiti 1, Mandi 4, Shimla 4, Sirmaur 1, Solan 6, and Una 3.

The monsoon has also caused widespread damage to property and infrastructure. Key incidents reported include:

A flash flood in Khaniyara Khad, Kangra district, on June 25, resulted in 7 deaths and 1-2 persons still missing, with rescue operations ongoing. In Kullu, a flash flood near the First Snow Gallery, Solang to Atal Tunnel Road, on June 25, 2025, led to 1 death and 2 missing persons.

A cloudburst near Bagehi, Chamba district, on July 6, washed away one gharat and one bridge. In Kullu, a cloudburst near Majhan Nallah in Sainj Valley on June 25 caused significant damage to roads, vehicles, and houses, with 1 confirmed death and an ongoing search and rescue for missing individuals.

Mandi district experienced multiple cloudbursts, resulting in the damage of 60 houses, 51 cowsheds, 33 cattle, 10 shops, and 5 small bridges in Karsog, with 2 deaths and 1 missing person reported. In the Thunag area of Mandi, a total of 599 houses, 277 cowsheds, 146 shops, 482 cattle, 31 vehicles, and 6 bridges were damaged due to cloudbursts.

A landslide in Village Kaliyun, Chamba district, on July 3, resulted in one fatality after a person was buried under debris. In Lahaul & Spiti, a landslide near Lari on June 25, 2025, injured one person and damaged two vehicles.

Landslides have also blocked major roads, including NH-505 in Lahaul & Spiti and the NH-21 Mandi-Kullu route. The Kalka-Shimla railway track was blocked at two locations in Solan due to landslides.

Relief and rescue operations are underway across the affected districts, with teams from NDRF, SDRF, and Home Guard deployed to assist stranded individuals and provide aid. Numerous relief camps have been established to shelter displaced families. (ANI)

In a major crackdown on terror operatives and their support structures, Budgam Police on Wednesday attached three properties belonging to Pakistan-based terrorist handlers (JKNOP) located in Khag, Chewa Beerwah, and Harwani Khansahib areas of Jammu and Kashmir’s (J-K) Budgam district, officials said.

According to the Kashmir Police, the action was taken in the presence of concerned executive magistrates.

The list of properties attached includes a double-storied residential house with premises at Village Harwani Khansahib, Budgam, under Khasra No. 763, belonging to Manzoor Ahmad Chopan, also known as Rayees, son of Gh. Mohi-ud-din Chopan, R/O Harwani Khansahib; a double-storied residential house along with 05 Kanals, 13 Marlas of land at village Chewa Budgam under Khasra No. 151 of Mohammad Yousuf Malik, also known as Molvi, S/O Ab. Rahim Malik, R/O Chewa Budgam; and a land measuring 19.5 Marlas situated at Khag under Khasra Nos. 1093 and 1094, belonging to Bilal Ahmad Wani, alias Umer, S/O Gh. Ahmad Wani, R/O Nagbal Khag.

The action was carried out in connection with case FIR No. 58/2024 under Sections 7/25 of the Indian Arms Act, 18, 20, 23 of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA), of Police Station Khag, and under proceedings initiated under Section 25 of the UAPA for the attachment of properties used in terrorist activities.

These terrorist handlers, operating from Pakistan, have been actively orchestrating and facilitating terrorist activities in the region for several years, the Kashmir police said in a release.

“The attachment of their properties is a part of the ongoing efforts to dismantle the logistical, financial, and operational networks of terror outfits and their cross-border sponsors. This decisive move sends a strong message to those involved in anti-national activities that such actions will invite strict legal consequences,” they said. (ANI)

The Union Cabinet on Wednesday adopted a resolution welcoming return of Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla from International Space Station and said it heralds a new chapter in India’s space programme and gives a golden glimpse of the country’s future space programme.

The resolution, which was read by Information and Broadcasting Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw during a cabinet briefing, said that this successful mission significantly elevates India’s global standing in space exploration.

“It is a vital stepping stone towards India’s own human spaceflight ambition, including the Gaganyaan and the Bharatiya Antariksha Station. It reaffirms India’s resolve to be at the forefront of human space exploration,” the resolution said.

The Union Cabinet commended the Indian Space Research Organisation and the entire community of country’s scientists and engineers and said their relentless efforts have made this achievement possible.

The Cabinet lauded the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and said his strategic foresight and guidance have enabled the country to chart new frontiers.

“Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla’s mission is not just a personal triumph – it is a beacon of inspiration for a new generation of young Indians. It will ignite the scientific temper, fuel curiosity, and inspire countless youth to pursue careers in science and embrace innovation,” the resolution said.

The Cabinet reaffirmed its firm conviction that this mission will energise the national resolve to build Viksit Bharat–a Developed India–by 2047, as envisioned by the Prime Minister.

“On July 15, 2025, Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla has landed back safely on earth from his space journey, representing infinite aspirations of India. This is a moment of pride, glory and joy for the entire nation. The Cabinet joins the nation in celebrating the return of Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla to Earth, following the successful completion of his historic 18-day mission aboard the International Space Station,” the resolution said.

“Launched on June 25, 2025, with Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla as Mission Pilot, this mission marked a watershed moment – the first time an Indian astronaut travelled to the International Space Station. It heralds a new chapter in India’s space programme and gives a golden glimpse of our future space programme,” it added.

During his time aboard the International Space Station, Group Captain Shukla worked seamlessly with fellow members of the Axiom-4 Crew and Expedition 73, embodying India’s growing leadership in international space cooperation.

He conducted pioneering experiments in microgravity on subjects such as muscle regeneration, algal and microbial growth, crop viability, microbial survivability, cognitive performance in space, and the behaviour of cyanobacteria. These studies will deepen global understanding of human spaceflight and microgravity science, and provide critical inputs for India’s future missions, the resolution said.

“The Cabinet applauds the visionary and decisive leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, whose strategic foresight, unwavering belief in India’s space potential, and consistent guidance have enabled the country to chart new frontiers and emerge as a leader among spacefaring nations,” the resolution said.

The Cabinet also recalled with pride India’s recent landmark achievements, including the historic landing of Chandrayaan-3 near the South Pole of the Moon on August 23, 2023, a day etched in history as India’s National Space Day.

“Likewise, India’s Aditya-L1 Mission launched in 2023 has significantly enhanced humanity’s understanding of solar activity. These feats reflect the spirit of scientific excellence and national self-reliance,” the resolution said.

It said that through sustained reforms in the space sector, the Government has unlocked unprecedented growth in India’s space economy. The emergence of around 300 new start-ups in this sector has not only led to job creation at a large scale, but also nurtured a vibrant ecosystem of innovation, entrepreneurship and technology-driven development, the resolution said. (ANI)

All schools and colleges will be closed in Meerut from July 16 to 23 on the occasion of Kanwar Yatra, an official order issued by the District Magistrate stated.

On the holidays of educational institutions in Meerut district, VK Singh said, “During the Kanwar Yatra in Meerut district, the route has to be blocked. The safety of children and their parents is also our responsibility. Like previous years, this time also all the schools and educational institutions will remain closed from 16 to 23.”

The top district official further stated that there is a provision for temporary lights on all the routes.

“This time, temporary lighting has been arranged along the 45 km long Kanwar Path to ensure that the Kanwariyas do not face any inconvenience. The Radhna route, which goes to Pura Mahadev, is a 42 km long path; lighting has been arranged on the entire route,” he said.

On the necessary arrangements and emergency situations, he added, “17 vehicles have been arranged in which LED lights will be installed in sufficient quantity. In case of emergency or if there is no light somewhere, the vehicle can reach there immediately and help the Kanwariyas reach their destination.”

The Kanwar Yatra began on July 10. During the annual pilgrimage, Kanwariyas collect holy water from rivers and carry it over hundreds of kilometres to offer it at Lord Shiva temples. Devotees across the country observe fasts, perform rituals, and undertake the Yatra as a mark of devotion. (ANI)

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, along with Trinamool Congress (TMC) MP Abhishek Banerjee and several party leaders, led a massive protest march in Kolkata on Wednesday, raising strong allegations of harassment against Bengali-speaking people in BJP-ruled states.

Senior ministers, MLAs, and grassroots workers participated in the demonstration, which was billed as a show of solidarity with Bengalis living outside West Bengal.

In its post on X, the Trinamool Congress said, ” BJP’s assault on Bengali identity is no longer covert, it’s brutal, deliberate, and fuelled by hate. Under the leadership of Mamata Banerjee and Abhishek Banerjee hit the streets today in fierce defiance. Every injustice will be met with resistance.”

Over the past few days the party has highlighted various instances claiming that Bengali speaking people were being targeted in BJP rulesd states.

The party claimed that innocent Bengali migrant workers were being targeted in Double-Engine states.The part alleged that six members of the Matua community from North 24-Parganas, including minors, were illegally detained and harassed by Maharashtra Police despite possessing valid ID documents.

The party also claimed that despite having valid documents and verified IDs, Bengali-speaking residents of Delhi’s Jai Hind Colony were harassed, humiliated, and branded as ‘illegal’.

On July 12, the Trinamool Congress slammed the remarks by Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma that “writing Bengali as mother tongue in the Census documents will quantify the number of foreigners in Assam”.

“Bengali is the 7th most spoken language in the world. Yet, under @BJP4India’s rule, Bengali-speaking Indians are subjected to racial profiling, targeted harassment, and systematic persecution,” Trinamool Congress’ X handle had posted on X.

“By branding Bengalis as “illegal Bangladeshis,” @himantabiswa has disgraced the very office he holds. He must apologise immediately,” the party added.

In response, Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma accused the Trinamool Congress of portraying his government’s firm stance against illegal infiltration of Bangladeshi Muslims as anti-Bengali.

He said the alleged attempt is nothing but a desperate ploy to shield Muslim infiltrators from the neighbouring country.

“Assam has been waging a relentless war against illegal infiltration of Bangladeshi Muslims for several decades,” Sarma said in a post on X.

“The recent attempt by the @AITCofficial to distort my media remarks and portray our stand as anti-Bengali is nothing but a desperate ploy to shield Muslim infiltrators from Bangladesh,” he added.

Wednesday’s rally is an attempt by the TMC to use the emotive issue to corner the BJP ahead of state elections due for 2026. (ANI)

Air India has announced a phased resumption of its international operations following a “Safety Pause” implemented after the tragic crash of flight AI171 on June 12.

The airline had suspended or reduced multiple routes to conduct precautionary inspections on its Boeing 787 aircraft and to adapt to longer flight paths necessitated by regional airspace closures.

The airline on Tuesday said that partial services would be restored starting August 1, with full normal operations expected to resume by October 1. A total of 5 routes will see reinstated services or increased frequencies.

Key changes include Delhi-London (Heathrow) – Full 24 weekly flights restored starting July 16, Delhi-Zurich – Increased from 4 to 5 flights per week from August 1, Delhi-Tokyo (Haneda) and Delhi-Seoul (Incheon) – Full weekly frequencies to be reinstated by August and September, respectively and Delhi-Amsterdam – To return to 7 flights per week from August 1.

A new route between Ahmedabad and London (Heathrow) will operate three times weekly, replacing the current five-times-weekly Gatwick service. Additionally, Delhi-Nairobi services will operate three times a week until August 31, to be suspended from 1-30 September.

Despite the partial restoration, over 15 routes will continue to operate at reduced frequencies until at least the end of September. These include:

The flights between Bengaluru-London (Heathrow) remains reduced from 7x weekly to 6x weekly; will further reduce to 4x weekly, effective August 1. The Delhi-Paris flight will cut to 7x weekly from 12x, starting August 1.

The Delhi-Milan flight will be reduced from 4x weekly to 3x weekly, effective 16 July while the Delhi-Copenhagen remains reduced from 5x weekly to 3x weekly.

The Delhi-Vienna flight remains reduced from 4x weekly to 3x weekly and Amritsar-Birmingham remains reduced from 3x weekly to 2x weekly until 31 August; to operate 3x weekly, effective September 1.

The flight between Delhi-Birmingham remains reduced from 3x weekly to 2x weekly.

North American destinations such as Washington, Chicago, San Francisco, Toronto, Vancouver, New York (JFK and Newark) remain reduced, with frequencies ranging from 3 to 7 flights per week.

The flights between Delhi-Melbourne and Delhi-Sydney continue at 5x weekly.

The four international routes remain suspended until September 30, which includes flights between Amritsar-London (Gatwick), Goa (Mopa)-London (Gatwick), Bengaluru-Singapore and Pune-Singapore.

Air India stated that it is proactively contacting affected passengers to offer rebooking options or full refunds.

‘As the schedule reductions taken as part of the Safety Pause had been implemented until 31 July 2025 and the restoration to full operation is being phased, some services initially planned to operate between 1 August and 30 September 2025 will be removed from the schedule. Air India is proactively contacting affected passengers to offer re-booking on alternative flights or a full refund, as per their preference. Air India apologizes for the inconvenience’, the airline said in a statement.

Despite the temporary cuts, Air India will operate more than 525 international flights per week across 63 destinations during the phased restoration period. (ANI)

Bollywood stars Kiara Advani and Sidharth Malhotra have been blessed with a baby girl.

Sidharth Malhotra and Kiara Advani officially confirmed the news with their fans with a post on Instagram on Wednesday.

The couple wrote in an adorable post, “Our hearts are full and our world forever changed. We are blessed with a baby girl.”

After this good news, Kiara and Sidharth’s fans and industry friends couldn’t keep calm and flooded the comment section.

Filmmaker Siddharth P Malhotra congratulated the couple for becoming parents to a baby girl, “Many many many congratulations”

Shaheen Bhatt commented, “Yay! Congratulations”

Manish Malhotra also congratulated the couple with pink heart emojis. Athiya Shetty also dropped a heart emoji.

On social media user wrote, “Omggg sidkiara congratulations you two, you are gonna be great parents my heart is so full”

“You guys are gonna be the bestest parents,” another fan wrote.

The couple announced their pregnancy in February with an adorable post featuring tiny white knitted baby socks.

The caption read, “The greatest gift of our lives.” Since then, they have been keeping a low profile, making only a few public appearances.

The couple tied the knot in an intimate yet grand ceremony in Rajasthan in February 2023. Their love story blossomed on the sets of the war drama Shershaah.

Kiara Advani publicly revealed her baby bump for the first time at the Met Gala 2025.

For her first-time appearance at the Met Gala, Kiara opted for a custom couture creation by renowned Indian designer Gaurav Gupta. Kiara brought an ethereal presence to the blue carpet, radiating grace, strength, and a glowing embrace of motherhood.

She will be seen sharing screen space with Hrithik Roshan in ‘War 2’. The film is directed by Ayan Mukerji and stars Jr NTR and Hrithik Roshan in the lead roles.

On the other hand, Sidharth Malhotra is gearing up for his next film, Param Sundari, where he stars opposite Janhvi Kapoor. The film is directed by Tushar Jalota and produced by Maddock Films. (ANI)

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Wednesday morning spoke with the father of the deceased 20-year-old girl from Odisha, who immolated herself because of alleged sexual harassment by her teacher, and ensured justice for the victim’s family.

Labelling the action leading to self-immolation by the victim as a “wound to the entire society”, he assured that the Congress party stand with the family.

“Spoke with the father of the brave daughter who lost her life in the fight for justice in Balasore, Odisha. In his voice, I felt his daughter’s pain, dreams, and struggle. Assured him that the Congress Party and I stand with them at every step. What happened is not only inhuman and shameful but a wound to the entire society,” Gandhi, who is the Leader of Opposition (LoP) in Lok Sabha, posted on X.

“We will ensure in every way that the victim’s family receives full justice,” he added.

The Biju Janata Dal (BJD) on Wednesday took to the streets, calling for ‘Balasore Bandh’ in protest against the Odisha government after a 20-year-old girl self-immolated herself because of alleged sexual harassment by her teacher.

The BJD workers burned tyres on the roads in Balasore, expressing anger over the “inaction” of the government that led the girl to self-immolate herself in protest against the alleged sexual harassment.

A BJD worker demanded the resignation of Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi and Education Minister Suryabanshi Suraj.

“People in large numbers are joining our protest…The victim should get justice. The Chief Minister and the state Health Minister should resign…We have called for the Balasore Bandh from 6 am to 2 pm,” he said.

The 20-year-old student set herself on fire after allegedly facing prolonged sexual harassment by her college’s Head of Department. Despite lodging a formal complaint and seeking help from the principal, her pleas were ignored, leading to the tragic incident. The incident occurred at Fakir Mohan (Autonomous) College.

Earlier, BJD chief Naveen Patnaik criticised the Odisha government, calling their administration a “failed system” while blaming their inaction for the death of a Balasore college student.

Patnaik said that her death “was not an accident” but the result of a system that “remained silent instead of helping.”

“It is even more disturbing to think how a failed system can take someone’s life. The most painful part is that this was not an accident, but rather the result of a system that remained silent instead of helping. Struggling for justice, the girl ultimately closed her eyes,” Patnaik said in a post on X.

On Monday, the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) Bhubaneswar confirmed the death of the 20-year-old student from Fakir Mohan Autonomous College in Odisha’s Balasore, who had attempted self-immolation.

The Department of Burn Centre, AIIMS Bhubaneswar, said in a statement that the patient was brought to the casualty on July 12 and was referred from Balasore District Headquarters Hospital to AIIMS Bhubaneswar. (ANI)