Tag: Dharamshala

  • Registration mandatory for private coaching centres in Kangra; institutes urged to apply soon

    Registration mandatory for private coaching centres in Kangra; institutes urged to apply soon

    Dharamshala, August 14: Registration has been made mandatory for eligible private coaching centres operating in Kangra district under the Himachal Pradesh Private Coaching Centres (Registration and Regulation) Rules, 2026, Deputy Director of Higher Education (Secondary), Kangra, Ajay Singh Sambyal, said on Friday.

    Sambyal said the rules have been notified by the state government following directions of the Supreme Court. Deputy Commissioner Hemraj Bairwa is the chairman of the district-level Private Coaching Centres Committee.

    All private coaching institutes in the district where 50 or more students are enrolled have been asked to register under the prescribed procedure. Institutes that have not yet registered or submitted their applications have been advised to do so without delay.

    The Deputy Director said registration was a statutory requirement and not merely a procedural formality. The regulations aim to ensure a safe, transparent and quality learning environment for students.

    Under the rules, coaching centres are required to maintain adequate infrastructure, a safe and hygienic campus, comply with fire-safety norms and make necessary emergency and student-safety arrangements. Compliance will be reviewed periodically by the district-level committee.

    Institutes that fail to register or violate the provisions of the 2026 rules may face action as prescribed under the Himachal Pradesh Private Coaching Centres (Registration and Regulation) Rules, 2026.

    Sambyal urged all eligible coaching centres to complete the registration process at the earliest. For details regarding the application process, prescribed format and other requirements, institutes can contact the district-level Nodal Officer (Higher Education).

  • Three electric buses launched to boost rural connectivity in Shahpur

    Three electric buses launched to boost rural connectivity in Shahpur

    Shahpur, August 14: Rural connectivity in Himachal Pradesh’s Shahpur Assembly constituency is set to receive a boost with the introduction of three new electric buses, aimed at providing safer, cleaner and more accessible public transport in underserved areas.

    Shahpur MLA and Deputy Chief Whip Kewal Singh Pathania recently flagged off the buses from the SDM office premises. The buses will operate from Dharamshala on rural routes connecting Tatwani, Bandi, Rehlu, Lanj, Harnera and Bhaled.

    The new services are expected to benefit residents travelling for education, healthcare, employment and other essential needs, particularly those living in areas with limited public transport.

    Pathania said the state government, under Chief Minister Sukhwinder Singh Sukhu and Deputy Chief Minister Mukesh Agnihotri, was working to modernise the public transport system. He said 297 electric buses have been added to the HRTC fleet, marking a step towards cleaner and greener mobility in the state.

    Electric buses are also expected to reduce fuel consumption and vehicular emissions while offering passengers a more comfortable travel experience.

    The launch of the three buses is being seen as more than an expansion of public transport in rural Shahpur, with local residents hoping that similar services will be introduced on other underserved routes in the constituency.

  • HPTDC Launches Monsoon Tree Plantation Drive Across Units, Sets Target of Minimum Five Saplings Per Premise

    HPTDC Launches Monsoon Tree Plantation Drive Across Units, Sets Target of Minimum Five Saplings Per Premise

     

    Dharamshala: In a major push towards environmental conservation and sustainable tourism, the Himachal Pradesh Tourism Development Corporation (HPTDC) has directed all its units across the state to undertake a special tree plantation drive ahead of the monsoon season. The initiative aims to enhance green cover, improve air quality, and contribute to climate change mitigation.

     

    According to an official communication issued by HPTDC Managing Director Rajiv Kumar, all DDOs, Unit Managers, and Incharges have been instructed to plant a minimum of five saplings in their respective premises. Units with limited space have been advised to compensate by planting additional trees at locations where adequate land is available.

     

    The corporation emphasized the critical role of trees in combating global warming, supporting biodiversity, preventing soil erosion, and reducing the risk of floods and landslides. The plantation campaign is a continuation of last year’s green initiative and is being launched in view of the upcoming monsoon season.

     

    HPTDC has also directed its field units to share photographs of plantation activities before and after planting through the corporation’s official communication channels. Additionally, records and photographs of plantation work carried out during 2025 have been sought for review.

     

    Officials said the campaign reflects HPTDC’s commitment to environmental sustainability and responsible tourism development in Himachal Pradesh.

     

  • CUHP Scholar Dr. Suresh Kumar Honoured by President Droupadi Murmu for Promoting Kangra & Guler Miniature Art

    CUHP Scholar Dr. Suresh Kumar Honoured by President Droupadi Murmu for Promoting Kangra & Guler Miniature Art

    Preneeta Sharma

    Dharamshala: In a proud moment for Himachal Pradesh and the Central University of Himachal Pradesh (CUHP), noted artist and researcher Dr. Suresh Kumar has been honoured by the Hon’ble President of India, Droupadi Murmu, for his significant contribution to the preservation and promotion of the traditional Kangra and Guler schools of Pahari miniature painting.

    The prestigious recognition was conferred during a special workshop held at Rashtrapati Bhavan, New Delhi, where Dr. Kumar was acknowledged for his active role in preserving and advancing the rich artistic heritage of the Himalayan region.

    Dr. Suresh Kumar recently completed his PhD research at the Department of Visual Arts, Central University of Himachal Pradesh, Dharamshala, under the guidance of Dr. Ved Paliwal. His scholarly and artistic work has earned widespread appreciation for bringing renewed attention to the centuries-old Pahari art traditions.

    This is not the first national honour for Dr. Kumar. In October 2025, he was also awarded the Prime Minister Viksit Bharat Award by the Lalit Kala Akademi, New Delhi, under the Ministry of Culture, Government of India, for his outstanding contribution to Indian art and culture.

    Congratulating Dr. Kumar on this remarkable achievement, CUHP Vice-Chancellor Prof. Sat Prakash Bansal, along with Prof. Suman Sharma, Prof. Pradeep Kumar, Registrar Prof. Narendra Sankhyan, and faculty members of the Department of Visual Arts, including Prof. Nirupama Singh and Dr. Ved Paliwal, extended their heartfelt wishes and praised his dedication to preserving India’s artistic legacy.

    The recognition is being seen as a significant milestone not only for Dr. Kumar but also for the Central University of Himachal Pradesh and the state’s vibrant cultural heritage.

  • DIVINE BLESSINGS, SNOW-CAPPED DHAULADHARS AND CRICKET FEVER: DHARAMSHALA READY FOR INDIA–AFGHANISTAN ODI   

    DIVINE BLESSINGS, SNOW-CAPPED DHAULADHARS AND CRICKET FEVER: DHARAMSHALA READY FOR INDIA–AFGHANISTAN ODI  

     

     

    Dharamshala, June 12

     

    As anticipation builds for the opening One Day International between India and Afghanistan at the iconic Dharamshala Cricket Stadium tomorrow, cricket and spirituality came together in a unique Himachali tradition as former Union Minister and Member of Parliament Shri Anurag Thakur, accompanied by Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association (HPCA) office bearers, sought the blessings of revered deity Lord Indrunag Ji for the successful conduct of the match.

     

    Special prayers and rituals were offered at the sacred Indrunag Temple, a place deeply revered by the people of Kangra and Dharamshala. For generations, Lord Indrunag has been regarded as the protector of the region and a divine guardian associated with favorable weather and prosperity. Seeking His blessings before major international matches has become a cherished tradition, reflecting the unique bond between cricket, culture and faith in Dharamshala.

     

    Present on the occasion were HPCA Vice President Vijay Bhandari, Secretary Manuj Sharma, Treasurer Vikram Thakur, Joint Secretary Vishal Sharma, former Secretary Avneesh Parmar and other HPCA members.

     

    The atmosphere across Dharamshala is electric as fans from across the country arrive to witness some of the biggest names in world cricket take the field. Former Indian captain Rohit Sharma, v

    captain Shubman Gill, along with several other Indian stars, have already arrived in Dharamshala, further fuelling excitement among cricket lovers.

     

    Adding to the spectacle is nature’s own grand stage. Fresh snowfall on the majestic Dhauladhar ranges over the past few days has transformed the mountain backdrop into a breathtaking panorama. The snow-clad peaks towering above the lush green outfield have once again reminded the world why Dharamshala is widely regarded as the most beautiful cricket venue on the planet.

     

     

     

    With crystal-clear mountain air, pleasant weather and unmatched Himalayan vistas, tomorrow’s ODI promises to be far more than a cricket match it will be a celebration of sport, culture, spirituality and nature.

     

     

    Speaking on the occasion, HPCA Secretary Manuj Sharma said that with the blessings of Indru Nag devta all preparations for the match have been completed and the association is looking forward to hosting another memorable international fixture.

     

    Former Union Minister and MP Shri Anurag Thakur said that the Dharamshala Cricket Stadium has become one of Himachal Pradesh’s greatest ambassadors on the global stage.

     

    “From its humble beginnings to becoming one of the most admired cricket venues in the world, Dharamshala has showcased the beauty, culture and hospitality of Himachal Pradesh to millions across the globe. International matches have generated employment, strengthened tourism and brought immense pride to the people of the state. The HPCA has consistently delivered world-class events, and tomorrow’s ODI will be another memorable chapter in this remarkable journey,” he said.

    “It is a matter of pride that Dharamshala continues to host some of the most prestigious matches in world cricket. The response from fans has been overwhelming, and we are confident that tomorrow’s match will be a memorable experience for players and spectators alike,” he said.

     

    As the sun rises over the snow-covered Dhauladhars and thousands of fans make their way to the stadium, Dharamshala stands ready once again to deliver a cricketing spectacle where the roar of the crowd meets the serenity of the Himalayas a setting unmatched anywhere in the world.

  • Mayor Posts in Four Himachal Municipal Corporations Declared Unreserved

    Mayor Posts in Four Himachal Municipal Corporations Declared Unreserved

    Shimla, June 3: The Himachal Pradesh Government has notified that the posts of Mayor in four Municipal Corporations Solan, Palampur, Mandi and Dharamshala will remain unreserved for the next five-year term.

    According to a notification issued by the Department of Urban Development, the decision has been taken under Section 36 of the Himachal Pradesh Municipal Corporation Act, 1994, read with Rule 12 of the Himachal Pradesh Municipal Corporation (Election) Rules, 2012.

    The notification, issued from Shimla on June 3, 2026, states that the Governor of Himachal Pradesh has approved the unreserved status for the offices of Mayor in the four municipal corporations for the upcoming term.

    The order has been communicated to the State Election Commission, Director of Urban Development, Director of Information and Public Relations, Deputy Commissioners concerned and Commissioners of the Municipal Corporations of Solan, Mandi, Dharamshala and Palampur for necessary action.

    The notification is expected to pave the way for the upcoming municipal corporation elections in these urban local bodies.

  • BJP Dominates Dharamshala, Mandi and Solan Civic Polls; Congress Sweeps Palampur

    BJP Dominates Dharamshala, Mandi and Solan Civic Polls; Congress Sweeps Palampur

     

     

    Shimla, May 31: The results of the municipal corporation elections in Himachal Pradesh have painted a mixed political picture, with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) registering impressive victories in Dharamshala, Mandi and Solan, while the Congress emerged as the clear winner in Palampur.

     

    In Dharamshala Municipal Corporation, the BJP secured a commanding lead by winning 11 out of 17 wards, while the Congress managed to win five seats. One seat was won by an independent candidate.

     

    The BJP also maintained its strong performance in Solan Municipal Corporation, where it has so far won six seats, while the Congress and independent candidates secured one seat each.

     

    A similar trend was witnessed in Mandi Municipal Corporation, where the BJP swept 12 of the 14 wards, leaving the Congress and an independent candidate with one seat each.

     

    However, Palampur Municipal Corporation presented a contrasting outcome. The Congress recorded a near-clean sweep by winning nine out of 10 wards, while the BJP managed to secure only one seat.

     

    The results highlight the BJP’s continued influence in key urban centres such as Dharamshala, Mandi and Solan, while the Congress demonstrated its strength in Palampur, setting the stage for an interesting political contest ahead in Himachal Pradesh.

     

  • CM unveils official Jersey of Dharamshala marathon to be held on 25th December 

    CM unveils official Jersey of Dharamshala marathon to be held on 25th December 

     

    Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu today unveiled the official jersey of the Dharamshala Marathon 2025 at Dharamshala. The event, slated for 25th December, 2025, aims to promote fitness, bolster sports tourism besides highlighting the breathtaking beauty of the Dhauladhar foothills. The jersey has a design inspired by the beautiful Dhauladhar ranges and the local culture. Was much appreciated.

     

    An initiative of the Dharamshala Municipal Corporation in collaboration with the District Administration, Kangra, the Dharamshala Marathon 2025 underscores the civic body’s commitment to encourage an active and healthy lifestyle while attracting National and International athletes.

     

    Lauding the efforts of the Municipal Corporation Dharamshala, the Chief Minister said that the jersey represents more than just sportswear. It is a badge of honour for those who will take on this challenge proudly, he remarked.

     

    The registration for the Marathon (42.195 km), Half Marathon (21.0975 km), and shorter distance categories are now open at the official website of Dharamshala marathon.

     

    Former MP Viplove Thakur, Mayor, Municipal Corporation Dharamsala Neenu Sharma, former Mayor Devender Jaggi, Deputy Commissioner Hemraj Berwa, Municipal Commissioner Zaffar Iqbal, Superintendent of Police Ashok Ratan and several MC councilors were present on the occasion.

  • ओटीए भर्ती के आवेदनों की छंटनी के बाद कंपनी को ब्योरा देगा आयोग

    ओटीए भर्ती के आवेदनों की छंटनी के बाद कंपनी को ब्योरा देगा आयोग

    ऑपरेशन थियेटर अस्सिटेंट (ओटीए) की भर्ती का ब्योरा राज्य चयन आयोग एडसिल कंपनी को सौंपेगा। दिसंबर में कैबिनेट बैठक में आयोग के माध्यम से इस भर्ती प्रक्रिया को पायलट आधार पर करने का निर्णय लिया गया था। तीन माह में इस भर्ती प्रक्रिया को पूरा करने का निर्णय लिया गया है। बुधवार को राज्य चयन आयोग कार्यालय हमीरपुर में मुख्य प्रशासक अधिकारियों के साथ बैठक करेंगे। इसमें तमाम पहलुओं पर चर्चा होगी। साथ ही अन्य भर्ती परीक्षाओं के परिणामों को लेकर भी चर्चा हो सकती है।

    इस सिलसिले में पिछले दिनों आयोग कार्यालय में मुख्य प्रशासक आरके परुथी की अगुआई में बैठक हुई थी। इसमें इस भर्ती प्रक्रिया को तीन माह में पूरा करने के लक्ष्य को पूरा करने के लिए जरूरी संसाधन जुटाने पर चर्चा हुई थी। ओटीए के 162 पदों के लिए प्राप्त 1800 से अधिक आवेदनों की जांच की जा रही है। छंटनी के बाद तमाम ब्योरा कंपनी को दिया जाएगा, ताकि कंपनी इस भर्ती प्रक्रिया को तय समय में पूरा कर सके। कंपनी की तरफ से यह दावा किया गया है कि भर्ती प्रक्रिया को दो माह में पूरा किया जाएगा। तीन हजार से कम आवेदन होने के चलते कंपनी को अदा किए जाने वाले शुल्क को लेकर सरकार स्तर पर निर्णय लिया जाना बाकी है।

  • हिडिंबा मंदिर के समीप दुकानों में भड़की आग, 15 खोखे जले

    हिडिंबा मंदिर के समीप दुकानों में भड़की आग, 15 खोखे जले

    हिमाचल प्रदेश के कुल्लू जिले के मनाली में स्थित हिडिंबा मंदिर के समीप बनी अस्थायी दुकानों में आग लग गई। आग से लगभग 15 खोखे जलकर राख हो गए हैं। जानकारी के अनुसार आग लगने के कारणों का पता नहीं चल पाया है। आग मध्यरात्रि लगभग 2:00 बजे भड़की। पुलिस ने मामला दर्ज कर जांच शुरू कर दी है। लीडिंग फायर अफसर सूरज भारद्वाज ने बताया कि आग की घटना में करीब चार लाख का नुकसान हुआ है।