Thursday, July 16, 2026
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INDIAN ICE HOCKEY TEAM MEETS LADAKH LIEUTENANT GOVERNOR

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The Indian men’s Ice Hockey team recently visited the Lieutenant Governor of Ladakh, Brigadier (Dr) BD Mishra (Retd), at the Lt Governor’s Secretariat following their participation in the Asian Winter Games in Harbin, China. The unranked team competed against higher-ranked teams, securing a victory against Macau in one of their four matches.

The Lieutenant Governor praised the team’s performance and encouraged them to strive for greater achievements in future competitions. He emphasized the need to improve ice hockey management in Ladakh, suggesting the establishment of an Ice Hockey Federation affiliated with the Indian Olympic Association (IOA). He stated that this federation should be Ladakh-based and locally managed to support the sport’s development and promote local talent.

The Lieutenant Governor also stressed the importance of raising ice hockey standards in Ladakh and urged the team to mentor future generations. He assured them that the UT Administration would finalize a Sports Policy, which would include sports quotas in government jobs for eligible sportspersons from Ladakh.

In response, the team expressed their gratitude for the support they received and requested the implementation of sports quotas for local athletes in government jobs.

MANIPUR GOVERNOR EXTENDS DEADLINE FOR SURRENDER OF ILLEGAL ARMS

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Imphal – Manipur Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla on Friday extended the deadline for the surrender of looted and illegal arms until 4 PM on March 6, following demands from both hill and valley areas for additional time, an official statement said.

“Upon the expiry of the seven-day deadline for the voluntary surrender of arms, there have been requests from both the valley and hill areas to extend the period. I have considered these requests and decided to extend the deadline until 4 PM on March 6,” the statement read.

The statement further assured that no punitive action would be taken against those who surrender their weapons within this period, emphasizing that “this is the last opportunity for everyone concerned to contribute to peace, communal harmony, the future of our youth, and the security of our society.”

Governor Bhalla had earlier urged warring groups to voluntarily surrender weapons robbed from security forces and other illegally held arms within seven days. The deadline ended on Thursday, during which more than 300 weapons were surrendered by the public, primarily in the valley districts.

Ongoing Ethnic Tensions

Since May 2023, ethnic violence between the Meiteis and Kuki-Zo groups has claimed the lives of more than 250 people and rendered thousands homeless. In response to the unrest, the Centre imposed President’s Rule in Manipur on February 13 after Chief Minister N. Biren Singh resigned. The state assembly, which has a tenure until 2027, has been put under suspended animation.

With this extended deadline, the administration hopes to further stabilize the region and foster long-term peace. The government has reiterated its commitment to restoring order and ensuring the safety of all citizens.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen Visits India for High-Level Talks

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New Delhi – European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen arrived in New Delhi today for a two-day visit aimed at deepening India-EU ties. She is accompanied by the European Union College of Commissioners, marking the first-ever visit of EU Commissioners to India.

External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar met with President von der Leyen and expressed appreciation for her commitment to reenergizing India’s engagement with Europe. “The wide-ranging participation of Indian Ministers and EU Commissioners during this visit stands testimony to the importance we place on deeper India-EU ties,” he stated in a post on X.

A Trusted Strategic Partner

Upon her arrival, President von der Leyen emphasized the significance of India-EU relations. “In an era of conflicts and intense competition, you need trusted friends. For Europe, India is such a friend and a strategic ally,” she posted on X.

The European Commission President was received at the airport by Minister of State for Health Anupriya Patel. Later, she visited Raj Ghat to pay homage to Mahatma Gandhi, recalling his message of universal peace.

Key Meetings and Agenda

President von der Leyen is set to hold bilateral talks with Prime Minister Narendra Modi tomorrow at Hyderabad House. Their discussions will be followed by press statements. The visit will also include the second ministerial meeting of the India-EU Trade and Technology Council (TTC) and several bilateral meetings between European Commissioners and their Indian counterparts.

India and the European Union, strategic partners since 2004, have expanded cooperation across multiple sectors. This visit marks a significant milestone as both sides enter the third decade of their partnership, with growing convergences in trade, technology, and security.

Historical Context and Economic Ties

This marks President von der Leyen’s third visit to India. She previously visited in April 2022, where she announced the establishment of the India-EU Trade and Technology Council. She also attended the G20 Leaders’ Summit in India in September 2023. In the wake of the European Parliamentary elections in June 2024, Prime Minister Modi and President von der Leyen met on the sidelines of the G20 Rio Summit in November 2024.

Bilateral trade between India and the EU has reached new heights. In the fiscal year 2023-24, bilateral trade in goods stood at US$135 billion, making the EU India’s largest trading partner. Bilateral trade in services reached US$53 billion, registering its highest-ever value. EU investments in India are valued at over US$117 billion, with around 6,000 European companies present in the country. Meanwhile, India’s investments in the EU stand at approximately US$40 billion.

Paving the Way for Stronger Cooperation

As President von der Leyen’s visit unfolds, it is expected to further enhance India-EU cooperation, particularly in trade, technology, and security. With both sides recognizing each other as key strategic allies, this visit is poised to set the stage for deeper collaboration and mutual growth.

PM Modi Reviews Ayush Sector, Calls for Holistic Health and Global Expansion

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Prime Minister Narendra Modi conducted a high-level review meeting of the Ayush sector on Thursday, stressing the need for holistic health, standard protocols, and global expansion in yoga, naturopathy, and pharmacy.

Chairing the meeting at 7, Lok Kalyan Marg, the Prime Minister underscored the sector’s vital role in holistic well-being, preserving traditional knowledge, and strengthening India’s wellness ecosystem.

Since the formation of the Ministry of Ayush in 2014, Modi has envisioned a clear roadmap for its growth, acknowledging its vast potential, according to a statement by the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO).

Key Highlights of the Review

  • Strategic Interventions: Modi emphasized the need for policy support, research, and innovation to unlock the full potential of Ayush.
  • Global Expansion: Focus on enhancing India’s presence as a leader in traditional medicine.
  • Economic Growth: The sector’s market size has surged from USD 2.85 billion in 2014 to USD 23 billion in 2023.
  • Scientific Validation: The Ayush Research Portal now hosts over 43,000 studies, with research publications in the last decade surpassing the total of the previous 60 years.
  • Medical Tourism Boost: The introduction of the Ayush visa aims to attract international patients seeking holistic healthcare solutions.
  • Infrastructure Strengthening: Collaboration with premier institutions and the integration of AI-driven initiatives under the Ayush Grid.
  • WHO Recognition: Establishment of the WHO Global Traditional Medicine Centre in Jamnagar, Gujarat, solidifying India’s leadership in traditional medicine.
  • Digital Promotion: The iGot platform will host holistic Y-Break yoga content, leveraging digital technologies for wider accessibility.
  • International Day of Yoga (IDY): Over 24.52 crore people participated in IDY 2024, with 2025 marking the 10th anniversary and an expected increase in global participation.

Government’s Commitment to Transparency & Growth

Prime Minister Modi reiterated that transparency must be the foundation of all operations within the sector, directing all stakeholders to uphold the highest standards of integrity.

The Ayush sector has witnessed remarkable achievements, including its integration into the WHO’s International Classification of Diseases (ICD)-11 and the expansion of the National Ayush Mission, enhancing infrastructure and accessibility across India.

The meeting was attended by Union Health Minister J P Nadda, Minister of State (Independent Charge) Prataprao Jadhav, Principal Secretary to the Prime Minister P K Mishra, and other senior officials.

With a renewed focus on innovation, research, and global outreach, India continues to cement its position as a global leader in traditional medicine and holistic health.

PHE Workers Continue Protest for Regularization and Pending Wages

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The Jal Shakti (PHE) Department workers and daily wagers staged a massive protest demonstration outside the Chief Engineer’s office on BC Road, Jammu, demanding regularization of their services and release of pending wages.

Ongoing Protest Amidst Delayed Wages

Under the banner of PHE United Front, the protest was led by Rajinder Singh Taj and other United Front leaders. The agitated workers assembled at the PHE Complex, BC Road, Jammu, and raised slogans against the administration for its failure to address their long-pending issues.

Despite 84 months of unpaid wages, assurances from the Lieutenant Governor’s administration, and multiple rounds of talks with higher authorities, no concrete steps have been taken towards their regularization. Their strike has now continued for over 800 days, making it one of the longest-running protests in the region.

Union Leaders Voice Their Demands

Speaking to media personnel, Rajinder Singh Taj highlighted the plight of thousands of PHE workers who have been struggling for their rights since June 2022.

  • “Despite several meetings and promises, nothing has changed for us. Our families are on the verge of starvation. The government must act now,” said Taj.
  • He reminded the National Conference (NC) and Congress of their election promises regarding regularization of services and demanded their intervention in the upcoming budget session.
  • The implementation of SRO 64, which was abolished in March 1994, remains another key demand of the protestors.

Massive Expansion, No Recruitment

The protestors pointed out that since 1994, over 7,000 new Water Supply Schemes have been introduced, with 1,089 new schemes under the Jal Jeevan Mission in Jammu region alone. Despite this, no new employees have been recruited.

  • “Each tube well requires at least six workers, yet we are overburdened with responsibilities without permanent employment,” the protestors stated.

Participation from Across the Region

Braving heavy rains, workers from Akhnoor, Nowshera, Samba, Udhampur, Reasi, Kathua, and other districts joined the protest, showcasing the widespread discontent among PHE employees.

Workers’ Dire Situation

Union representatives Ravi Hans, Hoshiar Singh, Navdeep Singh, and Mohan Lal Sharma addressed the gathering and emphasized the dire financial situation faced by the workers.

  • “Many of us are unable to pay our children’s school fees or afford basic necessities. The government must release our wages immediately,” they said.

Call for Government Action

The protestors accused the LG Administration and BJP leadership of neglecting their grievances and warned of intensified agitation if their demands are not met.

As the protest continues, all eyes are on the administration to take decisive action and address the genuine concerns of the PHE workers who keep the region’s water supply system running.

RAINS, LANDSLIDES, AND FLASH FLOODS WREAK HAVOC IN JAMMU REGION

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Three Killed, Several Feared Washed Away; Highways Blocked, Avalanche Hits Kishtwar

Death and Destruction as Nature Unleashes Fury

Jammu region witnessed widespread devastation as heavy rains, landslides, and flash floods led to multiple casualties and severe damage across various districts.

  • Three persons killed and three feared washed away in Suran River.
  • A youth washed away in a nallah in Reasi district.
  • A temple damaged by lightning in Samba.
  • Jammu-Srinagar National Highway closed due to landslides and shooting stones in Ramban sector.

Major Highway Blocked

The Jammu-Kishtwar highway was blocked for over five hours due to landslides near Faggumarh (Drabshalla). However, the route was cleared by 11 AM.

A massive avalanche hit Beigpura area in Chhatroo, Kishtwar, but no casualties were reported. Another avalanche struck Pingrari area of Dachhan, fortunately occurring away from human settlements.

Deadly Accidents & Road Mishaps

A tragic accident in Poonch claimed one life and left two CRPF personnel injured when a boulder struck a Scorpio vehicle hired by CRPF in Madana. The driver, Wahid Ahmed, was killed instantly, while the injured officers were rushed to the hospital.

In another incident, a Xylo vehicle slipped into the Suran River near Kalai Bridge, leading to a rescue operation for seven survivors while three people remain missing.

A Tipper truck fell into a gorge in Bafliaz, Surankote, killing the driver and injuring the helper.

Flooding and Infrastructure Damage

The Mendhar market suffered severe waterlogging, with streets and shops submerged. Local businesses have reported huge financial losses due to the lack of a proper drainage system.

A footbridge in Dessa, Doda, was damaged due to heavy rains and flash floods, cutting off access to several villages.

Jammu-Srinagar Highway Hit by Landslides

The crucial Jammu-Srinagar highway remained shut due to landslides, mudslides, and shooting stones at multiple locations including Mehar, Dalwas, Cafeteria Morh, Gangroo, Marog, and Panthyal Tunnel.

Extreme Weather Hits Kashmir

  • Heavy snowfall continued for the third consecutive day across Kashmir.
  • Avalanche struck Khandiyal village in Gurez Valley, damaging two houses.
  • Officials recorded up to five feet of snow in some regions, including Affrawat, Kangdori, and Gulmarg.

Weather Forecast

  • March 1-2: Cloudy weather with light rain and snowfall at scattered locations.
  • March 3: Light to moderate rain and snow expected.
  • March 4-8: Weather likely to remain dry.

Authorities have urged residents in avalanche-prone areas to exercise caution. Relief and rescue operations are underway across the affected regions.


 

Vidarbha’s Nair-Malewar Stand Rescues Team After Early Blows in Ranji Trophy Final

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A horrible mix-up cost Karun Nair (86) a well-deserved century, but his 215-run partnership with Danish Malewar (138 not out) guided Vidarbha to a strong 254/4 at stumps on Day 1 of the Ranji Trophy final against Kerala in Nagpur.

Vidarbha found themselves in deep trouble at 24/3, with Kerala’s seamers striking early. However, Nair and Malewar counterattacked brilliantly, consuming 414 deliveries in a gritty fourth-wicket stand that turned the tide in the hosts’ favor.

Just when it seemed Nair was set for a hundred, a poorly judged single ended his innings. In the 82nd over, Eden Apple Tom bowled a delivery that swung more than expected, forcing wicketkeeper Mohammed Azharuddeen to move to his right. The ball slipped past him and the first slip, prompting both batters to attempt a risky run. Rohan Kunnummal at second slip reacted swiftly, executing a direct hit at the striker’s end, catching Nair short of his crease.

Frustrated, Nair (86 off 188 balls, 8x4s, 1x6s) threw his bat in agony, but his valuable knock helped Vidarbha recover. He also played the role of a mentor, guiding the young Malewar through a challenging phase.

Malewar, the 21-year-old batting at No. 4, remained unbeaten on 138 off 259 balls, registering his second First-Class century in his debut season. His innings, filled with elegant strokes, saw him score 14 fours and 2 sixes, with the bulk of his runs coming in the midwicket and long-on regions.

Earlier, Kerala’s bowlers exploited the green-top wicket expertly. MD Nidheesh (2/33) was particularly impressive, using the fresh grass to extract movement off the surface. Playing in their maiden Ranji final, Kerala had Vidarbha on the ropes before the resilient fourth-wicket partnership turned the tables.

With Malewar still at the crease, Vidarbha will look to build on their formidable first-day total and push towards a commanding position in the summit clash.

Afghanistan Stuns England in Champions Trophy, Earns Praise from Cricket Legends

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The legendary Sachin Tendulkar led the cricketing world in applauding Afghanistan’s stunning eight-run victory over England in the Champions Trophy, asserting that their wins can no longer be termed as “upsets.”

Batting first, Ibrahim Zadran’s sensational 177 off 146 balls propelled Afghanistan to 325/7 in Lahore on Wednesday. In response, Azmatullah Omarzai’s five-wicket haul (5/58) dismantled England’s chase, restricting them to 317 all out, keeping Afghanistan’s semifinal hopes alive.

Tendulkar hailed Afghanistan’s meteoric rise in international cricket, stating:

“Afghanistan’s steady and consistent rise in international cricket has been inspiring! You can’t term their wins as upsets anymore, they’ve made this a habit now. A superb century by @IZadran18 and a wonderful five-for by @AzmatOmarzay sealed another memorable win for Afghanistan. Well played!”

Meanwhile, Ravi Shastri took a dig at England’s struggles in subcontinental conditions, urging them to adapt.

“Afghanistan. You guys rock. Kammaaal Kaardi! For England: Take playing in the Subcontinent seriously with no excuses. Only then will you be recognised as a team that can TRAVEL,” Shastri wrote.

Ajay Jadeja, who mentored Afghanistan during the 2023 World Cup, also showered praise on the team and their passionate fans, calling them the “most humble and passionate” supporters.

Pakistan’s Shoaib Akhtar backed Afghanistan to go beyond the semifinals, while former England captain Michael Vaughan admitted that England’s lackluster white-ball form led to their downfall.

“Brilliant from Afghanistan… Thoroughly deserved win. England just haven’t played good enough white-ball cricket for a couple of years. This result isn’t a surprise in these conditions,” Vaughan remarked.

With this victory, Afghanistan continues to shake up the cricketing world, proving they are now a force to be reckoned with on the global stage.

Nation Celebrates Mahashivratri with Devotion and Grand Festivities Across States

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Amid chants of ‘Om Namah Shivay’ and ‘Har Har Mahadev’, tens of thousands of devotees thronged temples across the country on Mahashivratri to offer prayers to Lord Shiva and seek his divine blessings.

Uttar Pradesh Celebrations: Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath led the celebrations by performing ‘Rudrabhishek’ at the Gorakhnath temple in Gorakhpur. He emphasized that the faith displayed by lakhs of devotees in Prayagraj, Varanasi, and across the country symbolizes India’s unity. In Prayagraj, more than one crore pilgrims took a holy dip at the Triveni Sangam as the 45-day Maha Kumbh neared its closure.

Grand Processions in Varanasi: Varanasi witnessed a spectacular early morning procession led by ‘naga sadhus’ and ‘akharas’ to the Kashi Vishwanath Temple, adorned with lights and flowers. Devotees chanted ‘Har Har Mahadev’ as sadhus, carrying tridents and swords, performed ‘Jalabhishek’. Temple CEO Vishwa Bhushan Mishra assured that arrangements for barricading, water facilities, and crowd management were efficiently in place.

Mass Gatherings in Lucknow and Ayodhya: In Lucknow, devotees queued up outside Shiva temples to offer milk, water, and ‘bel’ leaves to the ‘shivling’. Ayodhya witnessed a massive influx of devotees, with major Shiva temples beautifully illuminated for the occasion. Officials estimated that around 1.5 million devotees had reached Ayodhya by Tuesday, with numbers swelling further on Wednesday.

Reopening of Historic Temple in Sambhal: Prayers were also held at the Kartikeya Mahadev temple in Sambhal, which was reopened after 46 years.

National Leaders Extend Greetings: President Droupadi Murmu greeted citizens on Mahashivratri, wishing continued progress for the nation. In Delhi, Chief Minister Rekha Gupta and Education Minister Ashish Sood visited temples and extended warm wishes, expressing hopes for prosperity and divine blessings.

Devotee Gatherings in Punjab and Haryana: Devotees thronged Shiva temples in Punjab and Haryana, forming long queues outside prominent shrines. Chief Ministers Nayab Singh Saini (Haryana) and Bhagwant Mann (Punjab) extended their greetings, along with Governors Gulab Chand Kataria and Bandaru Dattatreya.

Tragic Incident in Chhattisgarh: In Surguja district, five Shiva devotees, including three minors, lost their lives in an SUV-truck collision. Locals set the truck ablaze after the driver fled the scene. The victims were returning to Revapur village after offering prayers at a Shiva temple in Kilkila.

Clashes in Jharkhand: In Hazaribag, a violent clash erupted between two groups over the installation of flags and a loudspeaker in front of a school during Mahashivratri celebrations. The dispute escalated into stone-pelting and arson, with multiple two-wheelers set on fire. Authorities have brought the situation under control.

Devotional Festivities in Rajasthan: Long queues of devotees were seen at Shiva temples across Rajasthan, including Jaipur, Jodhpur, Ajmer, Udaipur, Kota, and Sikar. Governor Haribhau Bagde, Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma, and former CM Ashok Gehlot extended their greetings.

Festive Spirit in Himachal Pradesh: Thousands of devotees participated in Mahashivratri celebrations across Himachal Pradesh. Mandi, known as ‘Chhoti Kashi,’ was beautifully adorned for the occasion, with large crowds at the Bhutnath Temple. Rituals were also observed at Neelkanth Mahadev Temple in Manali and other shrines across the state.

Nationwide Celebrations: Mahashivratri was celebrated with immense religious fervor in Odisha, Bihar, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, and Karnataka, where devotees observed fasts, performed rituals, and gathered in large numbers at Shiva temples across the states.

Maha Kumbh Concludes with Grand Devotional Gathering at Sangam

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The Maha Kumbh, billed as the world’s largest gathering, concluded on Wednesday after 45 days of spiritual fervor. Lakhs of devotees surged towards the sacred waters of Sangam—the confluence of Ganga, Yamuna, and the mythical Saraswati—for a holy dip on the auspicious occasion of Mahashivratri.

A Spectacle of Faith and Spirituality

The event saw an overwhelming turnout, with 1.44 crore devotees taking a dip by 6 PM on Wednesday. Since January 13, over 66.21 crore pilgrims visited Prayagraj, exceeding the populations of most countries worldwide. Notable personalities such as President Droupadi Murmu, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, ministers, and celebrities graced the gathering.

“This is unprecedented in world history and truly unforgettable,” said Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath.

The Maha Kumbh was a unique fusion of tradition and modernity, where spirituality intertwined with technology, including AI-enabled cameras, anti-drone systems, and an advanced security network that transformed Prayagraj into Mahakumbh Nagar.

A Grand Logistical Feat

The makeshift city, spanning 40 hectares, remained abuzz 24×7 for six weeks. Pilgrims and tourists from across India and abroad took their final dips before departing, driven by the belief that bathing at Sangam during the planetary alignments leads to moksha (salvation).

Prominent spiritual leaders and akhara seers participated in three Amrit Snans, including Makar Sankranti (January 14), Mauni Amavasya (January 29), and Basant Panchami (February 3). The Mahashivratri dip, though not an Amrit Snan, was among the six major bathing occasions.

Stampede Tragedy and Political Repercussions

A tragic stampede on January 29 during the second Amrit Snan claimed 30 lives near Sangam, allegedly due to overcrowding. This incident triggered a political slugfest, with West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee terming it “Mrityu Kumbh,” while opposition parties accused the government of downplaying the toll.

Despite controversies, faith remained unwavering, with pilgrims continuing their sacred baths. A Central Pollution Control Board report on Ganga’s water quality also sparked debates, but the state government refuted claims of contamination.

A Fitting Finale: Aerial Spectacle by Indian Air Force

As the Maha Kumbh drew to a close, the Indian Air Force saluted the devotees with a breathtaking aerial display. Sukhoi fighter jets, AN-32 transport aircraft, and Chetak helicopters performed thrilling maneuvers over the Sangam, leaving spectators in awe.

Unparalleled Security and Global Presence

Over 37,000 police personnel, 14,000 home guards, 2,750 AI-based CCTVs, and 60,000 security personnel ensured a secure and seamless event. Underwater drones, capable of diving 100 meters, provided 24×7 surveillance.

Among the eminent visitors were Bhutan King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck, Mukesh Ambani, Gautam Adani, Laura Powell (widow of Apple founder Steve Jobs), and Coldplay’s Chris Martin.

Unforgettable Tales of the Kumbh

The Kumbh Mela also saw unique personalities gain the spotlight, including actor-turned-sadhvi Mamata Kulkarni, IIT Baba, and social media influencer-turned-ascetic Harsha Richhariya. The grand processions of Naga Sadhus and high-tech “modern babas” enthralled visitors.

Despite fire incidents and controversies, the Kumbh upheld its tagline—“Divya Kumbh, Bhavya Kumbh, Surakshit Kumbh”—showcasing India’s spiritual traditions while integrating cutting-edge technology for safety and convenience.

For millions, the Maha Kumbh was more than just an event; it was a spiritual milestone, where faith triumphed over all obstacles, leaving devotees with memories to cherish until the next great congregation.