Himalayan Express

Category: Uncategorized

  • Dr. Tarun Khajuria Honored for Successful Completion of Geriatric Caregiver Training Program

    dr tarun khajuria

    Dehradun, Uttarakhand — Dr. Tarun Khajuria was honored by the Department of Social Welfare, Government of Uttarakhand, for successfully completing the Geriatric Caregiver Training of Trainer (TOT) Program. As the Master Trainer for the program, Dr. Khajuria conducted a total of 240 hours of training, including 160 hours of online classes and 40 hours of classroom sessions.

    The Department of Social Welfare along with 20 participants who completed the training felicitated Dr. Tarun Khajuria. This initiative marks the first-ever Geriatric Caregiver TOT program undertaken by the Department of Social Welfare, Government of Uttarakhand.

    The training program aims to build a strong foundation for addressing the needs of an increasing elderly population in the future. As Uttarakhand anticipates a rise in its senior citizen population, this pioneering batch of trained caregivers is a significant step toward ensuring quality care for the elderly.

    The Department of Social Welfare expressed confidence that such initiatives will set a benchmark in geriatric care training and thanked Dr. Tarun Khajuria for his dedicated efforts in making the program a success.

  • Only 29 Out of 150 Women Helpdesks Headed by Women in J&K: Parliamentary Panel Flags Violation of Nirbhaya Fund Norms

    Only 29 Out of 150 Women Helpdesks Headed by Women in J&K: Parliamentary Panel Flags Violation of Nirbhaya Fund Norms

    In a glaring violation of the Nirbhaya Fund guidelines, only 29 out of the 150 Women Helpdesks set up across Police Stations in the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir are currently headed by women police officers. This stark shortfall has drawn the attention of the Department-related Parliamentary Standing Committee on Education, Women, Children, Youth and Sports, which expressed concern over the non-compliance in its recent report presented in Parliament.

    The Nirbhaya Fund, instituted by the Government of India following the 2012 Delhi gang rape incident, is a dedicated corpus aimed at enhancing the safety and security of women. Among several initiatives funded through this mechanism is the establishment of Women Helpdesks at Police Stations, designed to make law enforcement more accessible and responsive to women’s needs.

    As per the guidelines, each Women Helpdesk must be headed by a woman police officer—preferably of the rank of Junior Sub-Inspector (JSI) or Assistant Sub-Inspector (ASI), but not below the rank of Head Constable. The presence of a female officer is meant to ensure a more approachable and empathetic environment for women seeking help, especially in sensitive and distressing situations.

    However, official data from the Union Ministry of Women and Child Development reveals that only 29 of the 150 operational Women Helpdesks in Jammu and Kashmir are currently headed by women officers, undermining the very essence of the initiative.

    The Parliamentary Panel emphasized that such non-compliance defeats the core objective of making Police Stations women-friendly, thereby reducing the effectiveness of efforts to encourage women to report crimes and seek help.

    In addition, the committee raised concerns over the slow pace of Anganwadi Centre upgradation in the Union Territory. Out of the 338 centers sanctioned by the Union Ministry—86 in 2022-23, 50 in 2023-24, and 202 in 2024-25—only 135 have been upgraded to date. The upgradation is crucial to improving early childhood care and development, including better nutrition, health, and pre-school education.

    The report also highlighted financial underutilization in key welfare schemes. A sum of ₹5,095.68 lakh remains unspent under the Poshan Abhiyan as of February 21, 2025. Poshan Abhiyan is the Prime Minister’s flagship initiative to tackle malnutrition among children, adolescent girls, and pregnant and lactating mothers.

    Likewise, under Mission Vatsalya—formerly known as the Integrated Child Protection Scheme—an unspent amount of ₹3.76 crore remains in the UT’s account. This scheme focuses on the care, protection, and holistic development of children in vulnerable situations.

    The Parliamentary Committee has urged the UT administration to take immediate corrective measures, ensure full compliance with existing guidelines, and expedite the implementation of critical schemes for the welfare of women and children in the region.

  • Omar Abdullah: Public Support Crucial to Ending Militancy in J&K

    Omar Abdullah: Public Support Crucial to Ending Militancy in J&K

    Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has emphasized that militancy in Jammu and Kashmir cannot be eliminated without the active support of the people. Speaking to reporters outside the Assembly, he reiterated that while security is primarily a Union Government responsibility, his administration is committed to assisting in maintaining peace across the Union Territory.

    🗣️ “Militancy cannot be defeated without the people’s support. Our Government is making every effort to help the Lieutenant Governor keep the situation under control.”

    🔴 Terror Alert in Kathua

    Omar’s remarks come in the wake of an ongoing anti-terror operation in Sanyal, near the International Border in Hiranagar sector of Kathua district.

    🔹 Villagers reported suspicious movement of five terrorists
    🔹 Security forces launched an intensive cordon and search operation
    🔹 A minor girl sustained injuries in the ensuing exchange of fire

    The Chief Minister stated that these incidents are not new to the region and cautioned against premature conclusions, adding that the terrorists may have infiltrated from across the border.

    🗣️ “We have seen terror activities across Jammu, including Rajouri and Poonch. Their intent is clear – they want to disturb peace.”

    ⚖️ Waqf (Amendment) Bill Sparks Nationwide Protests

    Omar Abdullah also addressed the growing opposition to the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2024, stating that it disproportionately targets one community.

    🔹 AIMPLB announces nationwide agitation
    🔹 Massive protests planned in Patna (March 26) & Vijayawada (March 29)
    🔹 Bill introduced by Union Minister Kiren Rijiju, currently under review

    🗣️ “Charitable activities are conducted across all religions. If a particular community is singled out, unrest is bound to follow.”

    With tensions rising over both security concerns and legislative changes, Jammu & Kashmir remains on high alert, and all eyes are on the next developments.

  • MS Dhoni Focused on Reinventing Himself, Denies Backroom Role in CSK Captaincy

    MS Dhoni Focused on Reinventing Himself, Denies Backroom Role in CSK Captaincy

    Rejecting speculation that he is the behind-the-scenes decision-maker for Chennai Super Kings (CSK) despite stepping down as captain, Mahendra Singh Dhoni emphasized that his focus remains on adapting his game to stay relevant in the IPL.

    Speaking to JioStar after CSK’s four-wicket victory over Mumbai Indians in their opening match of IPL 2024, Dhoni reflected on team dynamics under new skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad, his personal approach to the evolving T20 format, and the rise of regional commentary in the tournament.

    Staying Relevant in Modern T20 Cricket

    With the batting approach in T20s evolving, Dhoni acknowledged the need to adjust his game:

    “Batsmen are now taking more risks while playing proper cricketing shots. You see reverse scoops, sweeps, and reverse sweeps against fast bowlers. I am no different; I have to adapt as well. This is what is required of me, given my batting position. You have to stay relevant,” Dhoni said.

    Comparing T20 cricket from 2008 to now, he highlighted how pitch conditions in India have improved, making them more batter-friendly than before.

    Gaikwad in Full Control as CSK Captain

    The five-time IPL-winning captain clarified that Ruturaj Gaikwad is fully in charge of CSK, contrary to speculation that Dhoni is making decisions in the background.

    “Ruturaj has been with us for a long time. He is calm and composed—key qualities for a leader. Before the season, I told him, ‘If I give you advice, you don’t have to follow it. I will try to stay away as much as possible.’

    “Throughout the season, people speculated that I was making the decisions, but the reality is that Ruturaj was responsible for 99% of the calls. Bowling changes, field placements—those were all his decisions. I was just helping him when needed, and he did a brilliant job managing the team,” Dhoni added.

    Bond with Virat Kohli

    Dhoni also spoke about his long-standing relationship with Virat Kohli, which evolved from a captain-young player dynamic to a deep friendship over the years.

    “It was always an honest exchange of ideas—discussing if a certain approach was right or if any adjustments were needed. Over time, as we kept interacting, we became friends. Even today, we share that bond, but there is always a line of respect between a senior and a junior.”

    Now that neither of them is leading a team, Dhoni noted that they get more time to talk before matches.

    Love for Regional Commentary in IPL

    Dhoni praised IPL broadcasters for introducing regional commentary, saying it provides new perspectives on the game.

    “Listening to commentary offers an outsider’s view, sparking new ideas that can be evaluated with intelligence and data. I haven’t heard much regional commentary, but I know that Bhojpuri commentary is highly energetic. It reminds me of old-school radio commentary, where the commentators were very involved. I find that very interesting,” he said.

    At 43, Dhoni continues to evolve with the game, not just as a cricketer but also as a mentor and strategist, ensuring CSK remains a dominant force in the IPL.

  • Axar Patel’s Evolution: From ‘Poor Man’s Jadeja’ to India’s Middle-Order Mainstay

    Axar Patel’s Evolution: From ‘Poor Man’s Jadeja’ to India’s Middle-Order Mainstay

    Kane Williamson’s composed 81 kept New Zealand’s chase of 250 alive in the Champions Trophy group stage, but Axar Patel’s precision put an end to his fight. In a moment of pure craft, Axar outfoxed Williamson with a slanted delivery, leading to a swift stumping by KL Rahul.

    It was the final ball of Axar’s spell—a masterful 10-0-32-1—marked by pinpoint accuracy and strategic cunning. However, his efforts remained overshadowed by Varun Chakravarthy’s five-wicket haul, a scenario all too familiar for the left-arm spinner.

    For years, Axar was unfairly labeled as a “poor man’s Jadeja” due to his similar skillset—left-arm spin and left-handed batting. Yet, breaking out of Jadeja’s shadow was no easy task. The breakthrough came in 2022 when he began sharpening his batting prowess, an effort that bore fruit with a match-winning unbeaten 64 against the West Indies in Barbados.

    The Shift to No. 5

    A bold move by the Indian team management saw Axar promoted to No. 5, ahead of the experienced KL Rahul, who boasts an average of over 50 in that slot. The decision, met with skepticism, was rooted in a strategic need—India required a left-hander in the middle order, especially after Rahul was designated as the primary wicketkeeper-batter over Rishabh Pant.

    Since his shift to No. 5, Axar has registered scores of 52, 41*, 8, 3*, 42, and 27—not staggering numbers but invaluable in match contexts. His 42 against New Zealand at the DICS was a prime example, helping India reach 249 with a crucial 98-run stand alongside Shreyas Iyer while countering the spin duo of Mitchell Santner and Michael Bracewell.

    Backing from the Team Management

    Head coach Gautam Gambhir has firmly stood by Axar’s elevation in the batting order.

    “We know his quality and ability, and we will continue giving him that opportunity at No. 5. It’s not about individuals; it’s about what works for the team,” said Gambhir.

    Skipper Rohit Sharma echoed similar sentiments, revealing that Axar was given clarity about his role at the start of the home ODI series against England.

    “The message was clear—no matter the situation, you will bat at No. 5. His batting improvement over the past year has been superb to watch, and we believe he can be an asset in the middle order,” Rohit stated.

    The Road Ahead

    Axar now has another opportunity to cement his status as an all-rounder in the Champions Trophy final against New Zealand on Sunday. While comparisons with Ravindra Jadeja are premature—given Jadeja’s stellar ODI record—Axar provides India with a seamless transition option once the veteran all-rounder steps away from the game.

    For now, Axar Patel is no longer just a backup; he is carving his own identit

  • Uttar Pradesh to Host Dazzling Drone Show at Maha Kumbh

    Uttar Pradesh to Host Dazzling Drone Show at Maha Kumbh

    The Uttar Pradesh Tourism Department is preparing to host a spectacular drone show at the Maha Kumbh, offering a mesmerizing blend of modern technology and India’s rich cultural heritage. The event, scheduled for January 24, 25, and 26, will take place in Sector-7 of the Maha Kumbh Nagar.

    The show promises to be a visual feast, with drones soaring into the sky in perfect synchronization, forming intricate patterns and captivating visuals. The light displays will highlight various aspects of Indian culture, spirituality, and the profound significance of the Maha Kumbh, offering an unforgettable experience for both devotees and tourists.

    The drone show will also mark a special celebration on Republic Day, with unique arrangements made for the occasion. During a rehearsal held on Thursday evening in Sector 7, the drones demonstrated their remarkable coordination, building excitement for the upcoming performances.

    Event Highlights:

    • Dates: January 24, 25, and 26
    • Location: Sector-7, Maha Kumbh Nagar, Prayagraj
    • Theme: A fusion of technology, light, and music showcasing Indian culture and spirituality
    • Special Feature: Republic Day celebration with a synchronized drone light show

    Security and Coordination:

    To ensure the smooth execution of the event, stringent security arrangements have been put in place. During the rehearsal, local administration, police, and Tourism Department officials conducted a review of the security and technical arrangements at the venue. Their collaborative efforts aim to ensure that the show runs seamlessly and safely, providing an enjoyable experience for all attendees.

    Quote Section:

    • Tourism Department Official: “The drone show is a perfect fusion of technology and tradition. It will provide a unique and immersive experience that reflects the spiritual and cultural essence of the Maha Kumbh.”
    • Local Police Official: “We are working closely with all departments to ensure the security and safety of both the participants and spectators. The event will be a memorable highlight of the Kumbh Mela.”
  • Sat Sharma (CA), BJP State President JK UT, Pays Obescience at Tirupati Balaji Temple Jammu

    Sat Sharma (CA), BJP State President JK UT, Pays Obescience at Tirupati Balaji Temple Jammu

    Sat Sharma (CA), the BJP State President for Jammu and Kashmir UT, along with Ramesh Babu, Office Subordinate, Pattabi Reddy, Varinder Gupta, and Vishal Chopra, Spokesperson for DPAP Party, visited the Tirupati Balaji Temple in Jammu today. They participated in the special Abhishek ceremony of Lord Venkateshwara, offering their prayers for the well-being and prosperity of the country.

    The special Abhishek ceremony, which takes place every Friday, is an important spiritual ritual performed at the temple to honor Lord Venkateshwara. The group of dignitaries was deeply moved by the sacred atmosphere and participated wholeheartedly in the proceedings, expressing their gratitude and devotion.

    Speaking on the occasion, Sat Sharma (CA) expressed immense happiness and pride in the presence of the Tirupati Balaji Temple in Jammu. “It is a moment of great joy and pride for all of us to have the Tirupati Balaji Temple established here in Jammu. This temple allows us to experience the rich culture of South India and provides a spiritual connection that feels truly divine,” said Sharma.

    He further emphasized that the temple is not only a place of worship but also a significant cultural hub. “The establishment of this temple will undoubtedly give a major boost to spiritual tourism in Jammu, and I encourage everyone to visit and seek the blessings of Lord Venkateshwara,” added Sharma.

    Vishal Chopra, the spokesperson for the Jammu Kashmir DPAP Party, also highlighted the importance of the temple for both spiritual and cultural enrichment in the region, and how it provides a unique opportunity for people in Jammu to connect with the traditions of South India.

    The visit to the Tirupati Balaji Temple is part of an ongoing effort to promote spirituality and foster unity among people from all regions of India. The dignitaries’ participation in the Abhishek ceremony reflects the deep reverence they hold for the temple and the positive impact it has on the local community.

    A Visit to Tirupati Balaji Temple – A Spiritual Experience and Cultural Pride for Jammu!

  • ICRA Projects India’s GDP Growth to Slow to 6.5%, Maintains 7% Estimate for FY25

    ICRA Projects India’s GDP Growth to Slow to 6.5%, Maintains 7% Estimate for FY25

    Mumbai, Nov 20 – Domestic rating agency ICRA on Wednesday revised India’s GDP growth forecast for the September quarter, projecting a decline to 6.5% due to heavy rainfall and weaker corporate performance. However, it maintained its full-year estimate for FY25 at 7%, anticipating a recovery in economic activity during the second half of the fiscal year.

    ICRA’s updated outlook comes amidst growing concerns over a potential growth slowdown, with factors such as slowing urban demand and weaker corporate margins weighing on the economy. Despite these concerns, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has retained its 7.2% GDP growth projection for FY25, though most analysts expect growth to fall below 7%. Official Q2 data will be released on November 30; the economy had expanded by 6.7% in Q1.

    ICRA attributed the anticipated dip in Q2 growth to factors like severe monsoon rains, weak corporate margins, and slower industrial output, particularly in the mining and electricity sectors. While government spending and a strong kharif sowing season showed positive trends, the industrial sector faced headwinds.

    The services sector, however, is expected to see improvement, contributing to a back-ended recovery and a projected full-year GDP growth of 7%. ICRA’s chief economist, Aditi Nayar, noted that while several sectors faced challenges due to the rains, including mining and retail, the monsoon’s positive impact, such as a bumper kharif crop and replenished reservoirs, is expected to support rural sentiment in the coming months.

    Nayar also highlighted that the government’s capital expenditure is expected to rise in the second half of FY25, with a 52% year-on-year increase required to meet the full-year budget estimate.

    While investment activity showed signs of improvement in Q2, the execution of infrastructure projects remained sluggish due to the monsoon. However, new project announcements surged to Rs 6.7 lakh crore in Q2, signaling a potential rebound.

    ICRA remains cautious about the impact of slower personal loan growth on private consumption and the potential effects of geopolitical developments on commodity prices and external demand.

  • SLCM Collaborates with Bank of Baroda to Strengthen Agricultural Financing

    SLCM Collaborates with Bank of Baroda to Strengthen Agricultural Financing

    New Delhi, Nov 20 – Sohan Lal Commodity Management (SLCM), a leading warehousing and collateral management firm, has entered into a strategic partnership with Bank of Baroda to offer collateral management services for agricultural financing. This collaboration will allow farmers to access credit against their crops through Bank of Baroda’s extensive network across India, as stated by the company.

    SLCM’s assets under management (AUM) have seen a significant increase of 73% in the first half of fiscal year 2024-25, reaching Rs 11,952 crore, compared to Rs 6,911 crore in the same period last year.

    Sandeep Sabharwal, Group CEO of SLCM, highlighted that the company’s Agri Reach technology, combined with its physical infrastructure, will help reduce default risks and enhance financial access within the agricultural sector. SLCM operates over 17,000 warehouses and 36 cold storage facilities across 19 states in India, managing over 1,080 commodities such as cotton, pulses, and maize.

    The company also maintains partnerships with more than 20 financial institutions in India and Myanmar, further strengthening its position in the agricultural financing landscape.

  • Amazon Expands Cross-Border Logistics Program with Launch of Export Navigator for Sellers

    Amazon Expands Cross-Border Logistics Program with Launch of Export Navigator for Sellers

    New Delhi, Nov 19 : E-commerce giant Amazon has announced an expansion of its cross-border logistics initiative, Global Selling Seller Exports and Delivery (SEND), aimed at empowering Indian exporters to efficiently ship goods to international markets.

    Amazon has also launched Export Navigator, a comprehensive dashboard designed to streamline compliance requirements for overseas shipments, assisting sellers in navigating export regulations.

    “Amazon has enhanced its flagship logistics program, Global Selling SEND, by integrating three new carriers on air and ocean routes connecting India with the US, UK, and Germany. Additionally, SEND now incorporates Amazon Warehousing and Distribution (AWD), offering low-cost bulk storage solutions for Indian exporters to optimize inventory management and distribution,” the company stated.

    The SEND program allows Indian exporters to leverage cross-border logistics services from various third-party providers, enabling seamless shipping to Amazon fulfillment centers abroad. The platform provides competitive pricing, Amazon-supported shipping options, and integrated services through Amazon Seller Central, simplifying booking, tracking, and payment processes.

    Launched in 2022, SEND has already supported thousands of exporters by improving shipment visibility and ensuring timely deliveries, enabling more effective inventory planning, Amazon noted.

    The newly introduced Export Navigator will be accessible to all Indian exporters, whether or not they are registered on Amazon. The dashboard offers guidance on compliance requirements, including export registration, product certifications, licensing, taxation, shipping protocols, payment reconciliation, and government-provided export incentives.

    In addition, Export Navigator connects exporters with a curated network of third-party service providers offering support services at competitive rates and faster service level agreements (SLAs).

    “We are committed to expanding e-commerce export opportunities for Indian entrepreneurs and are focused on achieving USD 20 billion in cumulative exports by 2025,” said Bhupen Wakankar, Director of Global Trade at Amazon India.

    With these advancements, Amazon continues to strengthen its efforts in facilitating global trade for Indian sellers, enhancing their competitiveness in international markets.