Union Civil Aviation Minister K Ram Mohan Naidu visited Srinagar, reviewed airport operations, and assured full support to revive Kashmir's tourism after the Pahalgam attack.

Govt will make every effort to bring back tourists to Kashmir: Union Civil Aviation Minister

Union Civil Aviation Minister K Ram Mohan Naidu visited Srinagar, reviewed airport operations, and assured full support to revive Kashmir's tourism after the Pahalgam attack.

Union Civil Aviation Minister K Ram Mohan Naidu Thursday said the government would make every effort to bring back tourists to Kashmir, which has witnessed a decrease in footfall of visitors after last month's terror attack in Pahalgam.
He reviewed the functioning of the Srinagar airport which resumed operations on Wednesday following suspension of hostilities between India and Pakistan. The union minister later interacted with the locals at the Polo View market in the heart of the Srinagar city.
"I wanted to visit places outside the airport as well. So, I went to the Polo View market and interacted with the locals. They are worried about the harm tourism has suffered. Tourism has ebbed after the incident (Pahalgam attack) and we have to work to revive it," Naidu told reporters here.
He said tourism in Kashmir had witnessed a boom in the past five years whih could be figured from the arrivals at the Srinagar airport.
"Airport arrivals increased from 25 lakh passengers in 2019 to about 45 lakh in 2024. That has benefited the people here. The government will try to restore tourism as it was (before the attack) as soon as possible and also boost it further," Naidu said.
"We will provide wahtever support is required from the civil aviation ministry. We are working under the guidance of Prime Minister Narendra Modi who has taken Kashmir forward with a vision and people have benefited from it," he added.
The civil aviation minister said connectivity between Srinagar and other parts of the country has been restored after a temporary halt in the wake of Operation Sindoor.
"I have come to review (the functioning of) Srinagar airport as we want normalcy to return... We have resumed Srinagar airport's connectivity with the other parts of the country.
"We interacted with all officers and staff and thanked them for their display of courage in such tiring times. The entire nation is proud of our armed forces for giving a befitting reply to terrorists with a targeted approach through Operation Sindoor," the Union minister added.

Punjab CM Bhagwant Mann announced a major victory in a legal battle over water rights, securing Punjab's interests against opposition. Haryana had already used its water quota, and Punjab retains its resources for irrigation needs.

Punjab Wins Water Rights, Victory of CM Mann

Chief Minister Mann celebrates a legal victory for Punjab's water rights, overcoming obstacles from Haryana and central entities. The court ruling favors Punjab amidst irrigation challenges. Commitment to safeguard Punjab's resources continues.

Punjab CM Mann hails court victory retaining water rights against opposition. Haryana exceeded 2023 water quota. Commitment to prioritize Punjab's irrigation needs.

Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann on Wednesday said that the verdict of Punjab and Haryana High Court on the ongoing issue of release of water by Bhakra Beas Management Board (BBMB) to Haryana is a moral victory for the state.
Addressing the gathering here today, the Chief Minister said that the court has sought reply from all the stakeholders on May 20. He said that Haryana that has already exhausted its share of water for the current year will be eligible for its share of water by May 21. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that this is a huge win for the state as we have been able to defend our share of water despite all the might applied by centre, Haryana and BBMB.
The Chief Minister categorically said that Punjab doesn&rsquo;t have even a single drop of water to share with the other states and his government has saved the water of the state which was being stolen by Haryana. Meanwhile, Bhagwant Singh Mann reiterated that the state has no spare water to share with any other state adding that even a single drop of water will not be given to anyone. He said that as most of the river resources of the state have dried up, it needs more water to cater to its irrigation needs.
The Chief Minister said that the state government has fought the battle both politically and legally adding that finally it is a triumph of truth. He said that the Union government, Haryana and BBMB forgot one thing that if the state is capable of protecting the borders of the country, it can save the waters of Punjab too. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that the state is committed to safeguarding the interests of the state and no stone will be left unturned for it.

Security forces killed three unidentified terrorists during an encounter in Pulwama district, Jammu and Kashmir, after launching a search operation in Nader Tral area.

Three terrorists killed in encounter in J-K's Pulwama

Security forces killed three unidentified terrorists during an encounter in Pulwama district, Jammu and Kashmir, after launching a search operation in Nader Tral area.

Three unidentified terrorists were killed in an encounter with security forces in Pulwama district of Jammu and Kashmir on Thursday, police said.
Security forces launched a cordon and search operation in the Nader Tral area of Awantipora in the south Kashmir district after receiving specific inputs about the presence of terrorists there, a police official said.
The search operation turned into an encounter after the terrorists opened fire at the forces, who retaliated, he said.
The three terrorists were killed in the exchange of fire. The identity and group affiliation of the slain terrorists were yet to be ascertained, the official said.
According to police, the operation is still underway.&nbsp;

Punjab CM Bhagwant Mann enforces anti-corruption measures, introducing online land registration and creating 54,000 jobs for youth, promoting transparency and accountability.

Firm Stance of CM Mann against Corruption in Punjab

CM Bhagwant Mann leads an anti-corruption drive in Punjab, targeting corrupt officials and improving transparency with an online land registration system and job creation for youth.

Punjab's CM Bhagwant Mann ramps up anti-corruption measures, launching an online land registry system and boosting employment, emphasizing transparency and zero tolerance in governance.

Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann on Wednesday said that by nailing corrupt officers the state government has stopped the undue harassment and inconvenience caused to the general public.
Addressing the gathering here today, the Chief Minister, while taking a dig at the Revenue officers who used to harass the common man on pretext of mass leaves or strikes, said that the state government has not bowed before these corrupt officers, who are facing Police action for their sins. He said that the AAP government has zero tolerance against corruption but ironically by going on mass leave these officers are seeking license for corruption. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that this blackmailing was not tolerated and severe action has been taken against these corrupt and haughty officers.
The Chief Minister said that their pressure tactics have not been tolerated at any cost and exemplary action has been taken against them. Bhagwant Singh Mann unequivocally said that these officers harass the common man on a daily basis but this is no longer tolerated and the government is taking strict action against them. He said that the harassment of common man cannot be tolerated at any cost and these officers have been taught a befitting lesson for their sins.
The Chief Minister said that the trial of online registration of the land deeds is going on in the state and it will be soon implemented in Punjab. He said that it will set a new benchmark in delivery of public services to the people as people will have to apply at Sewa Kendras and will get the registries at their home. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that this will revolutionize the work of land registration by introducing a first of its kind mechanism.
The Chief Minister said that it is a moment of immense pride and satisfaction that more than 54000 jobs have been provided to the youth of the state. He said that all the jobs have been given completely on the basis of merit, san any corruption or nepotism. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that this is making the youth an active partner in socio economic development of Punjab.

Punjab contests a High Court order to release extra water to Haryana, citing legal impropriety and jurisdictional overreach, urging a review and adherence to legal protocols.

Punjab Challenges Court Order on Water Allocation

The Punjab Government disputes a court directive to release more water to Haryana, highlighting procedural oversights and calling for adherence to constitutional processes.

Punjab challenges a court order to release more water to Haryana, citing procedural errors and overreach by the Union Government.

The Punjab Government has approached the Punjab and Haryana High Court seeking recall of the Court's May 6 order that directed release of additional water from Bhakra Nangal Dam to Haryana.
The High Court bench comprising Chief Justice Sheel Nagu and Justice Sumeet Goel has sought responses from the Bhakra Beas Management Board (BBMB), Haryana Government and the Union Government on Punjab's application on the next hearing on May 20.
The official spokesperson of the state government informed that the state of Punjab has raised strong objections to the Centre's May 2 decision, arguing that the Union Home Secretary lacks jurisdiction to decide on water allocation under BBMB Rules.&nbsp;
Senior Counsel Gurminder Singh appearing alongside Punjab Advocate General Maninderjit Singh Bedi and Additional Advocate General Chanchal Singla, contended that the BBMB had misrepresented facts to execute an illegal order allocating extra water to Haryana.
The Punjab Government has stressed that under Article 262 of the Constitution and the Inter-State Water Dispute Act, 1956, release of water to Haryana beyond Punjab's determined share requires Punjab's consent. In its submission, the Government stated it had already consented to provide 4,000 cusecs of water daily to Haryana but objected to the additional demand of 4,500 cusecs for eight days.
The court was informed that during an extraordinary BBMB meeting on April 28, Punjab filed specific objections to Haryana's demand for 8,500 cusecs of water and no consensus was reached.
The Punjab Government has maintained that any water dispute between states can only be decided by constituting a Water Tribunal under the 1956 Act.
Notably, the matter will be heard alongside the contempt case initiated against the Punjab Government on May 20.
Punjab Advocate General Maninderjit Singh Bedi said that the Punjab Government had filed a review petition on May 12 challenging the May 6 court order, alleging procedural violations and misrepresentation of facts. The petition contends that BBMB is attempting to illegally divert Punjab's water to Haryana at the behest of the BJP-led Central Government.&nbsp;
Key arguments in the review petition include concerns about the May 2 meeting, which was incorrectly portrayed as a formal decision-making forum when no official minutes were ever provided to state authorities. The Punjab Government has stressed that only a press note was circulated about the May 2 meeting instead of formal minutes, which cannot be considered an official record of decisions made.
The review petition further clarified that the meeting was not conducted under Rule 7 of the 1974 Rules as incorrectly presented to the court. This misrepresentation formed the basis for the disputed court order of May 6, 2025.
When directed by the court, the Union Government failed to produce official minutes of the May 2 meeting, presenting only what they termed a "discussion record." The Punjab Government had pointed out that according to information provided to the court, the Secretary of Power, not the Home Secretary, is the competent authority under Rule 7 to make decisions in such matters.
Despite the lack of proper documentation and authorization, the BBMB proceeded to release water to Haryana without completing the required legal process. The Punjab Government has called upon the court to review its May 6 order in light of these serious procedural violations and misrepresentations.

Punjab Local Government Minister Dr. Ravjot Singh emphasizes infrastructure and cleanliness, urging Dera Bassi municipal improvements.

Punjab Minister Drives Clean Municipal Initiatives

Dr. Ravjot Singh pushes for cleanliness and infrastructure improvements in Punjab's municipal councils, urging coordinations and project completions.

Minister Ravjot Singh pushes cleanliness and infrastructure. Inspected projects in Dera Bassi urging quick resolutions. Stressed municipal coordination for better services.

Reiterating the zero-tolerance policy towards laxity in cleanliness, Punjab Local Government Minister Dr. Ravjot Singh today averred that Chief Minister S. Bhagwant Singh Mann's government is committed to providing a people-friendly environment by addressing the fundamental concerns of residents living in municipal councils and corporations.
During his early morning visit to Dera Bassi town, the cabinet minister inspected ongoing projects and directed officials to expedite efforts to resolve civic issues.
Dr. Ravjot Singh commenced his visit at Barwala Road, where he reviewed the progress of the stormwater drain project and instructed officials to accelerate work to complete it before the monsoon season. Besides this, he ordered the immediate removal of garbage along the various roads within the next two days.
Inspecting the bus stand, the cabinet minister asked the municipal council to initiate the construction of a new bus stand promptly, ensuring smooth traffic flow and minimizing congestion on surrounding roads. While inspecting the road behind the existing bus stand, he expressed dissatisfaction with the garbage littered in the area. He stressed the optimal utilization of the Material Recovery Facility (MRF) and directed officials to maintain cleanliness and eliminate foul odors.&nbsp;
At the pumping station located at Issapur-Bakarpur Road (Ward 17), Dr. Ravjot Singh instructed Water Supply and Sewerage Board officials to effectively address the wastewater drainage issues in the Dera Jagadhari area. He also called for upgrading pipelines if necessary to prevent future disruptions.
Dr. Ravjot Singh issued a stern warning to municipal and water supply officials, instructing them to resolve public grievances effectively or face disciplinary action. He stressed the importance of coordination between the Municipal Council and the Water Supply &amp; Sewerage Board to enhance civic amenities.
He directed the executive officer to prioritize the cleaning of main roads and then proceed to internal streets, setting a two-week deadline for completion.
MLA Dera Bassi Kuljeet Singh Randhawa expressed gratitude to the Minister for the visit and highlighted urgent local needs, including improved sewerage, water supply, and the construction of a new bus stand. Dr Ravjot Singh assured swift action, stating that the growing housing and commercial projects in Mohali district require proactive measures to address infrastructural challenges.
Additional Chief Secretary Tejvir Singh, Director of Local Government Gurpreet Singh Khaira, Deputy Commissioner Komal Mittal, ADC (UD) Anmol Singh Dhaliwal, EO Vijay Jindal, and other officials were present on this occasion.

The initiative to protect Punjab's vital water resources gained strong support at Kiratpur Sahib, driven by the local Technical Education and Industrial Training School, emphasizing collective action for sustainable practices.

Punjab Water Protection Initiative Gains Support

At Kiratpur Sahib, Punjab's movement to protect its water resources gains momentum with vital support from the Technical Education and Industrial Training School, stressing the significance of sustainable practices.

The movement to safeguard Punjab's water resources received a boost at Kiratpur Sahib, supported by the Technical Education and Industrial Training School, highlighting the need for sustainable practices and collective community action.

The ongoing morcha to save the waters of Punjab today got a huge boost at Kiratpur Sahib when the Technical Education and Industrial Training, School &amp; Higher Education, Information and Public Relations Minister Mr. Harjot Singh Bans along with his Cabinet colleague Lal Chand Kataruchak participated in the dharna staged at Lohand Khadd in Kiratpur Sahib.
In his address on the occasion, Mr. Harjot Singh Bains said that the people of Punjab are keeping constant 24 hour vigil at Kiratpur Sahib to protect the precious water resources of Punjab. He further added that during the recent war like situation between India and Pakistan the aware people of Punjab sat on dharna day in and day out whereas taking advantage of the circumstances, the Chairman BBMB were always on the lookout for the opportunity to rob Punjab of its waters in order to give it to other states thus acting as stooges of the central government.
He further said that the Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann has himself visited the Nangal Dam four times which is ample proof that the State Government is fully committed to protect the interests of Punjab. The opposition people describing the pro people stand of Punjab Government as political stunt must tell about what they have done for protecting the waters of Punjab.&nbsp;
On the occasion, Mr. Lal Chand Kataruchak said that the BJP led Central Government and other governments are employing unconstitutional methods to use BBMB against Punjab.
Meanwhile, the NRI Affairs Minister Kuldeep Singh Dhaliwal, Water Resources Minister Barinder Kumar Goyal, Transport and Jail Minister Laljit Singh Bhullar and Power &amp; PWD Minister Harbhajan Singh ETO also participated in the dharna at Nangal Dam and said that Punjab has given water to Haryana on the grounds of humanity but when our state doesn&rsquo;t has water for meeting its own needs then how can we give water to the other states.
Castigating the BBMB, the ministers were of the strong opinion that Punjab ahs 60 percent share in the BBMB whose officers draw salaries from Punjab and are giving arbitrary decisions against Punjab thus snatching the rights of the State. The Ministers made it absolutely clear that water is the lifeline of Punjab and the state has not even an extra drop to spare for the other states.
Among others present included MLAs Inderbir Singh Nijjar, Gurdeep Singh Randhawa, Balveer Singh Pannu, Chairman Jal Board Punjab Ranjit Singh Cheema, and Chairman Guru Ravidass Ayurvedic University Dr. Sanjeev Gautam.

Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami sanctions road improvements, educational infrastructure, and a memorial museum to honor statehood martyrs, alongside Rs 350 crore for constituency development.

Uttarakhand CM Pushkar Singh Dhami approves major development projects statewide

Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami sanctions road improvements, educational infrastructure, and a memorial museum to honor statehood martyrs, alongside Rs 350 crore for constituency development.

Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami on Wednesday approved several key development projects across the state, focusing on improving infrastructure, education, and honoring the sacrifices of statehood martyrs, according to an official release from the Chief Minister&rsquo;s Office (CMO).
The approvals include the asphaltisation and enhancement of the road from Barar Band to Pankhu Kokila Devi Temple, continuing from Pankhu to Kotmania via Dharam Ghar in Pithoragarh district. This project aims to boost local connectivity and support religious tourism in the region.
In Mussoorie, Dhami responded to the Mussoorie Shaheed Memorial Committee&rsquo;s request by revising an earlier plan for a shed at the martyr&rsquo;s site and instead approved the construction of a museum dedicated to the martyrs of the Uttarakhand movement. This museum will be built on land adjacent to the Mussoorie Shaheed Sthal to preserve the legacy of those who sacrificed their lives for statehood.
To strengthen rural education, the Chief Minister sanctioned Rs 95.84 lakh for building a multi-purpose hall in Village Panchayat Pitna in the Jageshwar Assembly constituency of Almora district. He also approved Rs 99.95 lakh for the construction of four classrooms at Gandhi Inter College, Panuanaula.
Additionally, Dhami approved the release of Rs 350 crore under the MLA Fund Scheme for development works across 70 assembly constituencies. The funds are allocated at Rs 500 lakh per MLA with specific distribution percentages for General, SC, and ST categories for the 2025-26 financial year.
Under this scheme, Rs 3.71 crore has been allotted for constructing a new motor road from Dehalchori to Kanda temple via Chamapani-Dhaulkandi in Pauri Garhwal district. Rs 5.44 crore is allocated for building a 36-meter prestressed RCC bridge over the Pathri Roh river near Sukarasa village in Haridwar rural assembly constituency. Rs 4.45 crore will be used for strengthening and road safety works on Khankra Chhatikhal motor road in Rudraprayag district.
Further, Rs 7.28 crore has been sanctioned for constructing a suspension bridge on the footpath leading to Panchkedar Shri Masta Madmaheshwar temple in Ukhimath block, Kedarnath assembly constituency. Rs 3.61 crore will be used for improving and asphalting the Syalgi-Juladgaon-Dodak-Thapla motor road in Tehri Garhwal district.
Finally, Rs 2.18 crore has been approved for electricity supply work related to the Manpur-Kashipur residential project under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (Urban), ensuring essential infrastructure support for housing development.

Uttarakhand Vigilance arrests Dehradun SI for bribery; over 150 corruption cases handled under Dhami’s zero tolerance policy; anti-cheating law aids 23,000 youth jobs.

Uttarakhand: Dhami government strengthens anti-corruption drive with key arrests

Uttarakhand Vigilance arrests Dehradun SI for bribery; over 150 corruption cases handled under Dhami&rsquo;s zero tolerance policy; anti-cheating law aids 23,000 youth jobs.

In a continued crackdown on corruption under Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami&rsquo;s leadership, Uttarakhand registered another significant success.&nbsp;
On Wednesday, the Vigilance Establishment arrested Sub Inspector Devendra Khugshal, in-charge of the ISBT outpost under Patel Nagar police station in Dehradun, while allegedly accepting a bribe of ₹1 lakh.
The complainant had alleged that the officer was handling a land dispute case and had demanded a bribe of ₹5 lakh, threatening to invoke the Gangster Act. Following a discreet investigation, the vigilance team laid a trap and caught the officer red-handed.
Over the past three years, the Dhami government has taken action against more than 150 individuals in corruption-related offenses. Applauding the latest development, Chief Minister Dhami said, &ldquo;The state government is firm on resolving corruption-free Uttarakhand. Strict action will be taken against any officer or employee who exploits the public. Providing justice to the public is our priority.&rdquo;
This incident comes shortly after a major crackdown in Nainital district, where vigilance officers arrested the Chief Treasurer and an Accountant of the district treasury for allegedly accepting a bribe of ₹1.20 lakh. &ldquo;In this sequence, vigilance took a big action in Nainital district and arrested the Chief Treasurer, Nainital and Accountant Treasury, Nainital red-handed while taking a bribe of one lakh twenty thousand rupees,&rdquo; a government release noted.
The government highlighted that since implementing the "Zero Tolerance on Corruption" policy, over 150 accused, including officers, staff, and mafias, have been sent to jail.
Under the state's anti-cheating law aimed at reforming the education sector, authorities have arrested several organised gangs and brokers. Over 80 cheating mafias have faced strict action, resulting in about 23,000 youth securing government jobs transparently over the last three years. &ldquo;After the implementation of the anti-cheating law, not a single complaint of cheating was received,&rdquo; the release added.
Earlier in the day, CM Dhami chaired a review meeting of the Migration Prevention Commission at the Secretariat. He emphasized supporting individuals who have undertaken reverse migration by providing a platform to share their experiences and encourage others to pursue self-employment. He also directed officials to ensure all hospitals are well-stocked with medicines, surgical tools, and essential medical supplies.

Uttarakhand CM Pushkar Singh Dhami leads Shaurya Samman Yatra celebrating Operation Sindoor; praises armed forces for swift retaliation and public unity.

Operation Sindoor brought Pak to its knees within two days: Uttarakhand CM Dhami

Uttarakhand CM Pushkar Singh Dhami leads Shaurya Samman Yatra celebrating Operation Sindoor; praises armed forces for swift retaliation and public unity.

Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami on Wednesday led a 'Tiranga Shaurya Samman Yatra' in Dehradun to celebrate the success of Operation Sindoor and said the Indian armed forces brought Pakistan to its knees within two days.
"It was a fitting reply to the brutal terror attack in Pahalgam in which 26 innocent tourists were killed after being asked their religion," Dhami said. Terming Operation Sindoor as an extraordinary act of bravery by the armed forces, Dhami said it sent a clear message to terrorists that it is a new India under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi which can destroy them on their own turf. India has once again proved that it is fully capable of taking decisive action against terrorism, he said.
"More than 100 terrorists were killed in the operation. It brought Pakistan to its knees within two days, forcing it to beg for a ceasefire," Dhami said while addressing a gathering at the end of the yatra at Gandhi Park.
Thanking people for participating enthusiastically in the foot march, the chief minister said it shows each citizen of the country stands with the security forces.
He also asked them to celebrate the historic success of Operation Sindoor every year.
The procession began from Shaurya Sthal Cheedbagh and concluded at the Gandhi Park in the heart of the city.
Thousands of people, including ex-servicemen and women, marched with the chief minister holding the tricolour in hand.
Dhami also paid tributes to the martyred soldiers by offering a floral wreath at the Shaurya Sthal before starting the yatra.
Cabinet minister Ganesh Joshi, Rajya Sabha MP and state BJP president Mahendra Bhatt, former chief minister Ramesh Pokhriyal Nishank, and MLAs Khajan Das and Umesh Sharma Kau also participated in the march.
Launched on May 7, Operation Sindoor was India's retaliatory strike targeting nine terror infrastructures in Pakistan and Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir. The operation followed the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack in south Kashmir's Anantnag district, where 25 tourists and a local were killed.&nbsp;

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West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Wednesday alleged that the BJP has contributed to the recent rise in Covid-19 cases in the state by bringing &ldquo;outsiders&rdquo; for campaigning during elections. Assembly elections are being conducted the state and voting phases are half way through. Both the ruling TMC and strong challenger BJP have been campaigning extensive over the past one month. The state had managed to get hold of the COVID situation but the BJP has now complicated it, Banerjee was quoted as saying by PTI.
&nbsp;

'Brought outsiders to Bengal': Mamata Banerjee attacks BJP over rising Covid cases

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Wednesday alleged that the BJP has contributed to the recent rise in Covid-19 cases in the state by bringing &ldquo;outsiders&rdquo; for campaigning during elections. Assembly elections are being conducted the state and voting phases are half way through. Both the ruling TMC and strong challenger BJP have been campaigning extensive over the past one month. The state had managed to get hold of the COVID situation but the BJP has now complicated it, Banerjee was quoted as saying by PTI.
&nbsp;

Bengal CM blames&nbsp;BJP for spike in&nbsp;Covid cases in the&nbsp; state
Mamata&nbsp;Baneje: BJP&nbsp;contributed to Covid&nbsp;surge by bringing in outsiders
Mamata said BJP&nbsp;complicated Covid&nbsp;situation in Bengal
TMC&nbsp;&amp; BJP&nbsp;campaigning extensively in fierce battle for Bengal

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Wednesday alleged that the BJP has contributed to the spike in coronavirus cases in the state by bringing &ldquo;outsiders&rdquo; for campaigning during elections. Assembly elections are being conducted in the state and four of the eight voting phases are over. Both the ruling TMC and strong challenger BJP have been campaigning extensive over the past few weeks. The state had managed to get hold of the COVID situation but the BJP has now complicated it, Banerjee was quoted as saying by PTI.
&nbsp;

Vande Bharat Express between Howrah and Puri to increase from 16 to 20 coaches starting May to meet rising passenger demand.

Vande Bharat Express Adds More Coaches from May

To meet rising demand, the Vande Bharat Express between Howrah and Puri adds four more coaches from May 16, expanding to 20 coaches.

To handle rising demand, the Vande Bharat Express between Howrah and Puri is growing from 16 to 20 coaches, adding four AC chair cars from May 16.

The East Coast Railway on Thursday said it has decided to add four coaches to the Vande Bharat Express between Howrah and Puri, owing to high demand for tickets by passengers.
The expansion of coaches from 16 to 20 will take effect from May 16, an official release said.
Four AC chair car coaches will be added, aimed at accommodating the growing number of passengers travelling on this semi-high-speed service, it said.
The decision was taken after a thorough review of passenger patronisation and travel demand, the release said.
The enhanced capacity is expected to improve travel convenience, reduce waitlists and further popularise the premium train service, it added.

The Delhi government gears up for the monsoon season with proactive flood measures along the Yamuna River, deploying boats and hiring divers, a Rs 3.86 crore initiative, ensuring safety and readiness.

Delhi Preps for Monsoon Floods with Boats 

In anticipation of monsoon challenges, Delhi's proactive measures include deploying boats and hiring divers for effective flood response along the Yamuna River. The Rs 3.86 crore project aims to enhance safety and readiness.

Delhi government plans proactive measures against monsoon flooding by deploying boats and divers, costing Rs 3.86 crore, to enhance rescue operations and resident protection along the Yamuna River.

The Delhi government is planning to hire boats and divers to be deployed along the Yamuna to shore up relief and rescue works in case of flooding during the monsoon season, officials said on Thursday.
The Irrigation and Flood Control department, which has begun its preliminary preparations for the monsoon, has 40 boats that are put to use for rescue works and to send relief materials to those affected.
The department has plans to deploy 20-inch and 25-inch-long aluminium boats for rescue operations if required, an official said.
Hiring divers, motorboats, boatmen, and machines is estimated to cost around Rs 3.86 crore, the official said Another officer said, "Preparing for flood season requires coordination with multiple agencies, prepping up control rooms and emergency numbers. The flood control order will be released by June 1 and meetings are underway so that there is no delay." Delhi battled one of its worst flood-like situations in 2023 with several areas inundated because of heavy rain and more than 25,000 people evacuated.

A tiger attacked and killed a rubber worker in Kalikavu, sparking protests over alleged negligence by forest officials. Authorities assured compensation and initiated efforts to capture the tiger while addressing community safety concerns.

Tiger Attack Sparks Outrage in Kalikavu

A fatal tiger attack on a Kalikavu worker incited protests and demands for action. The government responded with enhanced compensation and initiated a probe into forest officials' negligence, while efforts to capture the tiger intensify.

A tiger killed a rubber-tapping worker in Kalikavu, sparking local protests over alleged negligence by forest officials. Authorities promised compensation and job for the family while launching a probe and efforts to capture the tiger.

A 45-year-old rubber-tapping worker was killed by a tiger in the wee hours of Thursday when he was on his way to work near Kalikavu here, police said.
The death led to protests in the area and the government announced an enhanced compensation to the victim's family.
A forest department official said that besides the Rs 10 lakh compensation provided for loss of life in wild animal attacks, an additional Rs 4 lakh would be provided to the victim's next of kin and someone from his family would also be given a job.
State Forest Minister A K Saseendran said that the Chief Conservator of Forests (CCF) has been directed to investigate whether there were any lapses on the part of forest officials as claimed by the locals and submit a report.
Earlier in the day, police said, the tiger attacked the victim, Gafoor, and dragged him away according to another taping worker who was accompanying the victim.
A forest official confirmed that it was a tiger which attacked the tapping worker and that he was dragged away around 200 meters into the forest by the big cat.
The official also confirmed that there were bite marks on various parts of the victim's body.
Following the incident, local residents gathered in the area in large numbers and obstructed the removal of the body, alleging lapses on the part of the forest department in preventing the incident.
They told TV channels that the forest officials had been informed about the presence of the tiger in the area several months back when domestic and pet animals were being taken away by it.
"However, no action was taken. Even, they did not set up a cage to catch the tiger," the residents claimed and demanded that the feline be shot dead.
Gafoor's body was later allowed to be removed for postmortem after forest and district authorities assured the locals that steps would be taken to address the issue of wild animal attacks and requisite financial assistance would be provided to the victim's family, a forest official said.
Later in the day, Saseendran said the people's reaction in such a situation was understandable.
He said that all help would be provided to the family including for funeral arrangements and steps were being taken to capture the tiger.
The minister admitted that a few months ago there were reports of tiger presence in the area and forest officials had carried out an extensive search for the feline, but nothing was found.
"Subsequently, in the absence of the tiger, the forest officials' vigilance might have reduced a bit. Now we are taking all steps, including setting up cages and deploying kumki elephants (trained captive tuskers), to catch the tiger," he said.
The minister also said that he has spoken to the police, forest and other officials in the area and directed them to take preventive steps to ensure such incidents do not recur.
Meanwhile, Congress party in a statement said that Wayanad MP Priyanka Gandhi Vadra spoke to the Divisional Forest Officer (DFO) of the area regarding the incident and asked him to take steps to allay the fear of the people.
After the incident, Congress MLA A P Anilkumar visited the area and alleged that he had informed the DFO of the area and also Saseendran about the presence of the tiger in the area when the budget session was going on.
"There has been a serious lapse on the part of the forest officials in this case as they knew about the presence of the tiger in the area more than two months ago," he said.
Following the local's protest, a senior forest official told reporters that two teams with tranquilisers had started from Wayanad and Palakkad along with 'kumki' elephants to dart and catch the tiger.
"We need everyone's cooperation in the matter," he said to the local residents protesting against the incident.

Karnataka's minister presses for central funds due to project delays while urging MPs to apply pressure to expedite support.

Karnataka Urges Central Funds Allocation

Minister Parameshwara seeks central disbursement to avoid protests and push development, stressing on harmonious Centre-state ties.

Karnataka urges the central government to release overdue funds to prevent further protests, emphasizing development.

Alleging delay by the union government in releasing funds for the centrally-sponsored schemes and grants to Karnataka, Home Minister G Parameshwara on Thursday said that a situation should not come for the state government to once again hold a protest for this in New Delhi.
He said that the timely release of central funds would help in taking up development works.
"For the last two years, we have been asking the Centre to give the grants that are supposed to come to the state government. For various reasons, it is getting delayed. Sometimes they don't come at all. So the chief minister held a review yesterday," Parameshwara said in response to a question.
Speaking to reporters here, he said the CM had requested the Members of Parliament from the state to put pressure on the Centre and get funds released to the state.
"It is said that about Rs 5,500 crore should be released to the state immediately. We should demand under the Centre and state relationship that is there. Last time a situation had come for the state government to go and stage a protest in Delhi as repeated attempts to get funds by putting pressure on the Centre failed. Such a situation should not come again...if funds are released on time it can be used for development," he added.
Chief Minister Siddaramaiah had led a protest in New Delhi in February last year against the Centre's "injustice" to the state in devolution of taxes.
The CM on Wednesday had chaired a District Development Coordination and Monitoring Committee (DISHA) meeting here, and had alleged that development projects were being delayed in the state due to the union government's "apathy" towards Karnataka, and that the Centre has failed to release its share of funds for various centrally sponsored schemes.
To a question about a number of MPs skipping Wednesday's meeting, the home minister said, "Not sure what the reason is. They, too, will have work to perform and hence wouldn't have attended the meeting." "State government and the CM have ensured that due respect is given to MPs that they are entitled to," he said, responding to a question about whether MPs were miffed with the state government.

Char Dham Yatra experiences a 31% decrease in pilgrims due to India-Pakistan tensions, necessitating urgent government action to restore confidence.

Char Dham Yatra Sees 31% Decline in Pilgrims

The Char Dham Yatra in Uttarakhand has faced a 31% drop in pilgrim numbers, influenced by India-Pakistan tensions. SDC Foundation calls for action.

Char Dham Yatra sees a 31% decline in pilgrims due to India-Pakistan tensions. SDC Foundation urges action to restore confidence.

The Char Dham Yatra in Uttarakhand has witnessed a 31 per cent decline in pilgrim footfall in the first two weeks of the pilgrimage this year compared to the corresponding period in 2024, a Dehradun-based environmental organisation said on Thursday.
A total of 6,62,446 pilgrims visited the Himalayan shrines of Kedarnath, Badrinath, Yamunotri, and Gangotri between April 30 and May 13 this year, while 9,61,302 pilgrims had visited the temples between May 10 and May 23 last year, the SDC Foundation said in an analysis. This reflects a decline of 2,98,856 pilgrims, or nearly three lakh, translating to an overall dip of 31 per cent, it said. Head of SDC Foundation Anoop Nautiyal attributed the drop in pilgrim arrivals to the rise in tensions between India and Pakistan following the Pahalgam terror attack. "The military escalation between India and Pakistan in recent weeks has undoubtedly impacted public sentiment and travel confidence. There has been a slowdown in inter-state pilgrim movement, especially from Punjab, Haryana, Delhi, and parts of Rajasthan," he said.
"The Char Dham Yatra, being highly dependent on interstate mobility and group travel, has been directly affected," he added.
Nautiyal said that the drop in numbers must be seen in the context of the current India-Pakistan situation. However, he expressed optimism that the Yatra will gain momentum in the days ahead. "Last year&rsquo;s data trends showed that the yatra typically peaks during the second fortnight of May and the first fortnight of June. With security conditions expected to stabilise between the two countries, we foresee a surge in footfall in the latter half of the month,&rdquo; he said. He also stressed the need for the Uttarakhand government to take corrective measures on a war footing to instil confidence among the stakeholders involved in the Yatra.
Citing the example of the Vaishno Devi Shrine Board in Jammu and Kashmir, Nautiyal said, they moved swiftly by launching awareness campaigns awareness campaigns, boosted on-ground facilities, and reassured pilgrims through targeted communication.
"We need a similar proactive response in Uttarakhand&rdquo;, he said. The organisation has urged the state government to convene immediate consultations with key stakeholders such as district administrations, temple boards, hoteliers, mule operators, travel agencies, vyapar mandals and local groups to improve preparedness and improve the overall experience for pilgrims. &ldquo;Pilgrimage management must not be reactive. This concerns the livelihoods of thousands of families and businesses dependent on the seasonal Char Dham Yatra. Decisions must be taken promptly in light of the massive three-lakh dip in pilgrim numbers in the first two weeks," Nautiyal said. The SDC Foundation also reiterated the urgent need to implement recommendations it had made in its 2024 report titled "Uttarakhand Char Dham Yatra: Pathways to Pilgrimage &ndash; Data, Insights, Challenges and Opportunities", submitted to the state government.
&ldquo;We had called for clear protocols on carrying capacity, crowd regulation, environmental safeguards, and real-time communication. Unfortunately, many of these remain unaddressed,&rdquo; he added.

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