Monday, July 13, 2026
Home Blog Page 104

Nation Must Stand United For Countering Cybersecurity Threats: Union Home Secretary

Himalayan Express
-
0
Nation Must Stand United For Countering Cybersecurity Threats: Union Home Secretary

Union Home Secretary Govind Mohan here on Friday said the nation must stand united to tackle cybersecurity issues.

He was speaking after inaugurating COCON 2025, the annual cybersecurity conference organised by the Kerala Police here.

Mohan pointed out that cybercrime is on the rise globally, even as defensive measures are put in place.

He said that, along with offences such as digital arrest, cyber-dependent crimes are also increasing.

Investigation agencies must act vigilantly, but the public must also remain alert to cybercrime, he said.

The inaugural session was presided over by MP Hibi Eden, while State Police Chief and DGP Revada Chandrashekhar delivered the keynote address.

Mohan also released a booklet, “National Strategy Against Child Sexual Exploitation and Abuse,” which was brought out by the Kerala police.

COCON is an annual conference that discusses topics such as information security, data protection, and privacy.

It is attended by people from various corporate firms, government organisations, including the various investigation agencies, academia, research organisations, and cybersecurity experts.

As part of the event, various technical, non-technical, legal, and community events are organised.

The conference will conclude on Saturday. (Agencies)

Bharat Soka Gakkai marks a milestone with 250 “Seeds of Hope & Action” exhibitions inspiring sustainable living nationwide

Himalayan Express
-
0
Bharat Soka Gakkai marks a milestone with 250 “Seeds of Hope & Action” exhibitions inspiring sustainable living nationwide

Ahmedabad, 11th October 2025: Bharat Soka Gakkai (BSG) has achieved a significant milestone by successfully hosting 250 “Seeds of Hope & Action: Making the SDGs a Reality” (SOHA) exhibitions across 20 cities and 250 schools, universities, and organisations, reaching nearly 150,000 people since 2021.

The 250th SOHA exhibition, being held on 10–11 October 2025 at the Lalbhai Dalpatbhai Museum in Ahmedabad, was inaugurated by Dr. Kartikeya Sarabhai, Founder Director of the Centre for Environment Education (CEE). This landmark event underscores BSG’s ongoing mission to promote sustainability and peace through inner transformation.

A Movement Rooted in Compassion and Action

The Seeds of Hope & Action (SOHA) exhibition highlights humanity’s profound interconnection with nature and the urgent need for compassion in addressing global challenges. Featuring 27 panels, the exhibition not only presents a compelling vision for sustainable living but also showcases transformative stories of ordinary individuals who have catalysed extraordinary global change.

At its core lies the message of “Sustainable Human Behaviour (SHB)” — the belief that true sustainability begins with personal transformation and a deep reverence for all forms of life.

Youth at the Heart of Change

Each exhibition is student-driven, led by 15–25 young SDG Ambassadors who guide peers and visitors through the panels, fostering dialogue and community engagement. Inspired by these exhibitions, youth across India have initiated impactful local actions — from organic manure projects in Madhya Pradesh to waste-management drives in Guwahati.

Building on this momentum, BSG has also established 38 SDG Clubs nationwide — vibrant spaces where young people are developing local solutions to global issues such as climate change. These clubs exemplify the SDG spirit: when individuals unite with shared purpose and hope, transformative change becomes possible.

Voices of Inspiration

Mr. Vishesh Gupta, Chairperson of Bharat Soka Gakkai, remarked:

“The 250th SOHA exhibition celebrates a growing movement of individuals choosing hope and action over apathy. When one person embraces Sustainable Human Behaviour, it can inspire countless others to do the same.”

Dr. Jaya Rao, Head – External Relations, Media & Sustainability, BSG, added:

“Each exhibition nurtures a culture of sustainability — reminding us that when we act together as one, we can mitigate climate change and build a positive future for all.”

About Bharat Soka Gakkai

Home

Bharat Soka Gakkai (BSG) is a non-profit organisation dedicated to promoting the values of peace, culture, education, and sustainability, grounded in respect for the dignity of all life. With over 285,000 members across 600 towns and cities in India, BSG engages in grassroots initiatives to empower individuals and foster happiness and harmony within society.

To contribute toward the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), BSG launched the “BSG for SDG” initiative in 2021 under the motto: “Towards 2030 – Achieving SDGs through Sustainable Human Behaviour.” Through this initiative, BSG continues to raise awareness about how ordinary people can create an extraordinary culture of sustainability, ensuring that no life is left behind.

Learn more at: https://www.bsgforsdg.org/about-bsg-for-sdg

For media enquiries:

Bharat Soka Gakkai (India) – Public Relations

Rahul Jain

📞 +91 9810173231 | ✉️ rahul.co.in@gmail.com

NC Announces Candidates for Upcoming Rajya Sabha Elections

Himalayan Express
-
0
NC Announces Candidates for Upcoming Rajya Sabha Elections

The National Conference (NC) on Friday announced its nominees for the upcoming Rajya Sabha elections in Jammu and Kashmir, naming Choudhary Muhammad Ramzan, Shammi Oberoi, and Sajad Kichloo as candidates to contest the polls.

Speaking at a press conference, NC General Secretary Ali Muhammad Sagar said the party has finalized three candidates and is in ongoing discussions with the Congress regarding the allocation of the fourth seat. He emphasized that the party’s nominations reflect a balanced representation and are aimed at strengthening the NC’s presence in the Upper House of Parliament.

Sagar also highlighted that the party is committed to ensuring that its candidates are experienced, competent, and capable of voicing the concerns of Jammu and Kashmir at the national level. “Our nominees have a proven record of public service and are well-equipped to represent the aspirations of the people in the Rajya Sabha,” he said.

The announcement comes ahead of the Rajya Sabha polls, which are expected to witness keen competition among regional and national parties. Political analysts note that the NC’s decision to engage in talks with the Congress over the fourth seat indicates efforts to build alliances and maximize representation from Jammu and Kashmir in the Upper House.

The party also reiterated its focus on inclusive development, good governance, and political stability in the region, stating that its parliamentary representation would be used to advocate for legislative reforms and policy initiatives beneficial to the people of Jammu and Kashmir.

The final list of candidates, including the fourth nominee, is expected to be confirmed in the coming days after consultations with allied parties.https://himalayanexpress.in/

S. Aswathy Techie to IAS: The Inspiring Journey

Himalayan Express
-
0
S. Aswathy Techie to IAS: The Inspiring Journey

When most young professionals chase promotions and pay hikes in the corporate world, S. Aswathy dared to take a different route. Once a software engineer with Tata Consultancy Services (TCS), she left behind the comfort of a stable IT job to prepare for India’s toughest exam—the UPSC. Today, she proudly serves as an IAS officer, proving that courage and persistence can turn even the boldest dreams into reality.
From Coding to Public Service
S. Aswathy decision to switch careers was more than just a professional move—it was about finding purpose. “Corporate life gave me stability, but my heart was never there. I wanted to work with people and make a difference in their lives,” she says.
Balancing a demanding IT schedule with late-night study sessions soon became overwhelming. She eventually took the tough call to resign and dedicate herself fully to UPSC preparation.https://himalayanexpress.in/
The Road Wasn’t Easy
Her journey wasn’t smooth. She faced failures, doubts, and the pressure that every aspirant knows too well. But instead of giving up, she treated each setback as a lesson. “Every attempt taught me something new—about the exam, about resilience, and about myself,” Aswathy reflects.
With a focused strategy—fixed study hours, disciplined revision, and rigorous mock tests—she slowly built her confidence. The support of her family and peers played a vital role in keeping her motivated.
A Story of Grit and Determination
Today, S. Aswathy stands as a shining example for UPSC aspirants across the country. Her journey from writing code to serving the Constitution is a reminder that passion, patience, and perseverance can overcome the toughest challenges.https://himalayanexpress.in/

Shakti Dubey – The Power of Perseverance That Crowned India’s Top Bureaucrat (AIR 1, UPSC 2024)

Himalayan Express
-
0
Shakti Dubey – The Power of Perseverance That Crowned India’s Top Bureaucrat (AIR 1, UPSC 2024)

When the UPSC Civil Services Examination 2024 results were declared, one name resonated across India — Shakti Dubey, the woman who turned five years of perseverance into one historic victory. Her story is not just about academic excellence but about unyielding faith, relentless hard work, and emotional endurance in the face of repeated setbacks.
Shakti’s UPSC journey began in 2018, when she first decided to dedicate herself fully to public service. Coming from a middle-class family, she balanced preparation with financial constraints and societal expectations.

Her first few attempts ended in disappointment — she didn’t even clear Mains twice. But instead of breaking down, she rebuilt her strategy. She focused on clarity of concept, consistent revision, and mental balance, understanding that the exam was as much a test of patience as it was of intellect.https://himalayanexpress.in/

In her fifth attempt, everything aligned. Her focused preparation, refined answer-writing skills, and unwavering belief in herself finally paid off — she secured All India Rank 1 in UPSC 2024.

In several interviews, Shakti emphasized that discipline is the backbone of success. “Consistency matters more than talent,” she says. “If you can stay calm during your failures and focused during your success, the exam will eventually reward you.”
“Don’t count your failures — count the lessons.”
Shakti’s story reminds us that the journey to UPSC is not defined by the number of attempts, but by the courage to try againhttps://himalayanexpress.in/

7.6 Magnitude Earthquake Hits Davao Oriental, Tsunami Warning Issued

Himalayan Express
-
0
7.6 Magnitude Earthquake Hits Davao Oriental, Tsunami Warning Issued

An offshore earthquake with a preliminary magnitude of 7.6 hit off the coast of Davao Oriental in the Philippines on Friday morning, sparking warnings of a hazardous tsunami. The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS) indicated that the earthquake occurred due to shallow fault movement at a depth of only 10 kilometres.

The epicentre of the quake lies about 62 kilometres southeast of Manay town, posing risks to nearby coastal communities. Authorities have alerted residents about the potential for damaging aftershocks as well as the immediate tsunami threat.

According to the Pacific Tsunami Warning Center located in Honolulu, hazardous waves could affect areas within 300 kilometres of the epicentre. This means coastal areas in Davao Oriental might experience waves climbing as high as 3 metres above normal tide levels. Smaller tsunami waves could also be likely in nearby regions such as Indonesia and Palau.

The Philippines, being one of the most disaster-prone countries, faces regular seismic activities due to its location in the Pacific “Ring of Fire”. This region sees around 20 typhoons and storms annually, making disaster preparedness paramount for government agencies and local organizations alike.

After a magnitude 6.9 earthquake struck Cebu on September 30, killing at least 74 individuals and displacing thousands, the threat of another disaster weighs heavily on local communities. Many residents in Cebu experienced extensive damage, highlighting the ongoing challenge of earthquake and storm resilience in the region.

Local officials in Davao Oriental have launched alerts, urging all coastal residents to adhere to safety measures and maintain vigilance until the tsunami threat fully recedes. Communities were encouraged to follow evacuation protocols and stay tuned for updates from government agencies.

As the region braces for possible aftershocks, experts warn that this incident underscores the importance of robust disaster management strategies. Building resilience through effective communication systems, regular drills, and community training can help mitigate the impact of such natural disasters.

Sakeena Itoo Inaugurates Annual Sports Meet 2025 at GMC Srinagar

Himalayan Express
-
0
Sakeena Itoo Inaugurates Annual Sports Meet 2025 at GMC Srinagar

Minister for Health and Medical Education, Social Welfare and Education, Sakeena Itoo, officially inaugurated the Annual Sports Meet 2025 today at the Boys Hostel playground of Government Medical College (GMC) Srinagar. This two-day event has drawn attention to the vital role of physical activity in improving both mental and physical health among medical professionals.

Speaking at the inauguration, Minister Itoo emphasized that sports and recreational activities are essential for managing stress, especially for students and professionals in the demanding healthcare sector. She remarked, “The correlation between physical fitness and mental well-being cannot be overstated. Healthy professionals contribute to better healthcare delivery.”

Furthermore, Itoo called on the GMC administration to upgrade the facilities at the Boys Hostel playground. By enhancing these facilities, she expressed hope for increased participation in extracurricular activities among students, which can be incredibly beneficial for their overall development.

The Annual Sports Meet, organized under the supervision of Chairman of the Sports Committee Dr. Salim Iqbal, features a diverse array of sports and recreational events. The program includes cricket, volleyball, football, badminton, table tennis, carrom, and more. Participants can also engage in track and field events such as 100m, 200m, 400m, relays, shot put, javelin throw, and discus throw.

In addition to the traditional sports events, the sports meet incorporates fun games like matka race, sack race, and spoon-and-egg race. These activities aim to foster camaraderie while promoting holistic well-being among students and staff alike.

Notably, the inauguration was attended by esteemed guests, including Principal Dr. Iffat Hassan Shah, Administrator Mohammad Ashraf Hakak, along with various Heads of Departments, Medical Superintendents, faculty members, students, and support staff. The gathering marked a celebration of health, teamwork, and competitive spirit at GMC Srinagar.

Satish Sharma Meets Union Minister for J&K Sports Support

Himalayan Express
-
0

In a significant meeting held in New Delhi, Satish Sharma, Minister for Youth Services and Sports, urged Union Minister for Youth Affairs and Sports, Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya, to enhance support for developing sports infrastructure and promoting youth engagement in Jammu and Kashmir.

The meeting revolved around strengthening J&K’s sports framework to nurture athletic talent and bolster youth development initiatives. Sharma presented a comprehensive memorandum that outlines the government’s commitment to transforming the Union Territory into a thriving hub for sports.

This memorandum included strategic proposals focusing on infrastructure development, athlete welfare, and grassroots participation, ensuring alignment with the National Sports Policy 2025 and the J&K Sports Policy 2022.

Sharma specifically called for Union Government assistance to accelerate the development of critical sports facilities. Key among these is the proposed National Winter Sports Centre of Excellence at Gulmarg. Sharma emphasized the need to modernize district stadiums to include all-weather infrastructure and to create sports amenities at the panchayat level, ensuring equitable access for rural youth.

In his address, Sharma highlighted the potential of Khelo India grassroots programs and advocated for the expansion of scholarships and financial aid for athletes. He also stressed integrating sports science and physiotherapy into training regimens to optimize athlete preparation. Public-private partnerships (PPP) emerged as a pivotal theme in Sharma’s discourse, aimed at enhancing the management of sports infrastructure.

Moreover, to bolster sports-linked tourism, Sharma proposed hosting international winter sports events in Gulmarg. This initiative would position Jammu and Kashmir as a leading destination for winter sports and adventure tourism, potentially bringing global exposure and opportunities for local athletes.

To underline the urgency of these initiatives, Sharma requested the early release of ₹103.82 crore under Khelo India, essential for completing ongoing and critical sports infrastructure projects in the region.

In response, Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya assured Sharma of the Union Government’s commitment. He expressed that a dedicated policy for promoting rural sports would soon emerge, and funding for sports equipment would be allocated to support both ongoing and future initiatives.

This meeting marks a pivotal moment for sports development in Jammu and Kashmir, as both ministers underscored the importance of collaborative efforts in realizing a robust sports framework. Enhanced support from the Union Government aims to not only uplift athletes but also empower the youth of J&K through sports.

Kanshi Ram Anniversary Rally Receives Massive Turnout, Says Mayawati

Himalayan Express
-
0
Kanshi Ram Anniversary Rally Receives Massive Turnout, Says Mayawati

Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) president Mayawati addressed supporters on Friday, emphasizing the impressive attendance at the rally marking the 19th death anniversary of party founder Kanshi Ram. This rally, held in Lucknow, featured a diverse crowd, notably comprising youth and women, leaving competing parties feeling “sleepless and nervous.

Posting on X, Mayawati reflected on the substantial turnout at the Kanshi Ram Memorial on VIP Road. She expressed confidence in the energy and resolve of the attendees, who vocalized their commitment to bring the BSP to power in Uttar Pradesh for a fifth term. This, she noted, was indicative of the strong conviction among the party’s base.

Mayawati highlighted that such a significant display of support was bound to unsettle opposition leaders, who often lose their composure in response to overwhelming displays of strength. She encouraged her supporters to disregard “meaningless remarks and statements” coming from rival camps.

She stated, “The people of the Bahujan Samaj have shown the entire country how committed they are to fulfilling Baba Saheb Dr. B.R. Ambedkar’s dream. They aspire to uplift the oppressed, enabling them to emerge as the ruling class through their votes.” This statement underscores the BSP’s core mission to champion the marginalized communities.

In light of the upcoming 2027 Uttar Pradesh Assembly elections, Mayawati called on party workers to remain alert against the “divisive and deceitful tactics” of political adversaries. The BSP’s campaign, labeled as ‘Mission 2027’, aims to unify and motivate its supporters towards a common goal.

Moreover, Mayawati expressed heartfelt gratitude to the party functionaries and workers from all 75 districts of Uttar Pradesh for their efforts in mobilizing lakhs of attendees. Their dedication to safely bringing supporters to and from the rally signifies a robust grassroots network.

She also thanked individuals across the nation who paid tributes to Kanshi Ram, crediting their participation as a powerful symbol of unity and strength. This collective display of support reinforces the BSP’s vision and solidifies its presence in Indian politics.

India Elevates Kabul Mission to Embassy Status, Strengthening Ties

Himalayan Express
-
0
India Elevates Kabul Mission to Embassy Status, Strengthening Ties

India officially upgraded its technical mission in Kabul to the status of a fully functional embassy on Friday, a pivotal move that reinforces its diplomatic engagement with Afghanistan. This decision came during External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar’s discussions with Afghan Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi in New Delhi.

Following the Taliban’s takeover in August 2021, India withdrew its diplomatic staff from Kabul. To maintain a connection, it redeployed a small technical team in June 2022. Now, with this upgrade, India intends to enhance its cooperation with Afghanistan, emphasizing humanitarian aid, infrastructure development, and regional security efforts.

“Your visit marks an important step in advancing our ties and affirming the enduring friendship between India and Afghanistan,” Jaishankar remarked during the meeting. “As a contiguous neighbour and a well-wisher of the Afghan people, India has a deep interest in your development and progress.” This statement highlights India’s commitment to supporting Afghanistan in various sectors.

Jaishankar reflected on the renewed partnership, mentioning the execution of numerous significant projects in Afghanistan over the years. He noted the Taliban administration’s positive response to India’s security concerns, especially following the recent Pahalgam terror attack. Such considerations underline the complexities of India’s diplomatic approach towards Afghanistan.

Both nations recognize the shared challenges posed by cross-border terrorism. “We must coordinate efforts to combat terrorism in all its forms and manifestations,” Jaishankar stated, underlining the urgency of collaboration between India and Afghanistan in addressing this common threat.

Expressing gratitude, Afghan Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi characterized India as a crucial regional partner that has continually extended support to the Afghan populace. He valued India’s humanitarian contributions and emphasized Kabul’s eagerness to broaden cooperation in trade, infrastructure, and education.

The upgrade of India’s diplomatic mission to embassy status marks a significant yet calculated re-engagement with the Taliban-led government. This decision stems from India’s concerns over security, regional stability, and its long-standing relationship with the Afghan people. As India navigates the complexities of this partnership, it remains committed to fostering stability and development in Afghanistan.

1...103104105...1,129Page 104 of 1,129

Travel

Upsc

POPULAR CATEGORY

ABOUT US

Contact us: info@himalayanexpress.in

FOLLOW US

© Himalayan Express Designed And Developed By TR Technology Solutions.