Tag: himachalpradesh

  • World Physiotherapy Day Celebrated at IEC University

    World Physiotherapy Day Celebrated at IEC University

    Solan September 8

    Baddi: World Physiotherapy Day was celebrated with enthusiasm at IEC University, located at Atal Shiksha Kunj, with the aim of raising awareness about physical health and the importance of physiotherapy in maintaining a healthy lifestyle.

    The special programme was organized by the Department of Physiotherapy. Vice Chancellor Dr. Ashok Puri, Registrar Dr. Pralhad Gupta, members of the senior management, faculty members and students were present on the occasion.

    The university management appreciated the initiative taken by the Department of Physiotherapy and encouraged students to work dedicatedly in the field and strive for excellence.

    Dr. Kushal Kumar Tiwari attended the programme as the Chief Guest. During the event, students discussed various aspects of physical health and physiotherapy and took a pledge to spread awareness about the importance of physiotherapy in society.

    The students participated enthusiastically and spoke about the vital role of physiotherapy in promoting physical well-being and improving quality of life.

    The cultural segment added vibrancy to the programme, featuring impressive performances of Bollywood dance, Nati and Bhangra, along with speeches, poetry and skits. Through these performances, the students highlighted various aspects of physiotherapy and emphasized the importance of maintaining good physical health.

    The programme concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by the Head of the Department, who expressed gratitude to the university management, chief guest, faculty members and students for their valuable contribution to the successful आयोजन of the event.

  • Chief Minister meets Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman

    Chief Minister meets Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman

    • Seeks Additional Financial Assistance; Requests Enhancement of Borrowing Limit from 3 to 4 percent
    • Seeks exemption of SASCI payments from SNA-SPARSH and doubling of assistance under externally aided projects (EAPs)

    Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu met Union Finance and Corporate Affairs Minister Nirmala Sitharaman in New Delhi, today. He apprised the Union Minister of the current financial position of Himachal Pradesh and the financial challenges being faced by the state. He urged the Union Government to provide additional financial assistance, keeping in view the state’s unique geographical and economic condition.

    The Chief Minister said that with the discontinuation of the Revenue Deficit Grant (RDG) from the financial year 2026-27, following the recommendations of the 16th Finance Commission, Himachal Pradesh is facing an annual financial gap of around Rs. 8,000 crore. He said the continuous reduction in the Revenue Deficit Grant over the past few years had further increased pressure on the state’s finances.

    He said that Himachal Pradesh, being a hill State, faces difficult geographical conditions, high vulnerability to natural disasters and higher costs of creation and maintenance of infrastructure, making the delivery and operation of public services comparatively more expensive.

    Sh. Sukhu said that despite limited resources, the state government has been making sustained efforts to improve its financial position through various financial reforms and revenue-generation measures. He emphasized that, in view of the state’s geographical conditions and the heavy losses caused by natural disasters in recent years, additional support from the Union Government is essential.

    The Chief Minister also urged the Union Government to provide exemption to supply and vendor payments under the Special Assistance to States for Capital Investment (SASCI) scheme from the SNA-SPARSH model .

    He further urged the Union Finance Minister to enhance the allocation for Externally Aided Projects (EAPs) for Himachal Pradesh and consider doubling the assistance under this component, keeping in view the state’s difficult geographical conditions, higher infrastructure costs and developmental requirements.

    The Chief Minister also requested that the state’s borrowing limit be enhanced from the existing 3 to 4 percent of the Gross State Domestic Product (GSDP). He said that the additional fiscal space would enable the state to meet its committed liabilities while mobilizing adequate resources for essential public services and developmental priorities.

    He urged the Union Finance Minister to assess Himachal Pradesh’s financial challenges in the context of its unique geographical and economic circumstances and sought generous financial assistance and necessary approvals from the Union Government in the larger interest of the state.

    The Chief Minister also apprised the Union Finance Minister of various measures being undertaken by the state government to improve its financial position through its own limited resources. He said the state government was taking several important steps to strengthen the rural economy and enhance the income of rural households.

    He said Himachal Pradesh had become the first state in the country to provide Minimum Support Price (MSP) for crops produced through natural farming. The initiative aims to ensure remunerative prices for farmer’s produce, enhance the per capita income of rural households and strengthen the State’s economy.

    Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman assured the Chief Minister that the demands raised by the Himachal Pradesh Government would be considered sympathetically, keeping in view the state’s financial requirements and developmental priorities. Acknowledging the financial challenges faced by the state, she assured that the Union Government would extend necessary support to meet its legitimate financial requirements.

    She also assured that additional financial assistance under Special Central Assistance for Himachal Pradesh would be considered, which would help the state meet its developmental requirements and strengthen its financial position.

  • Teachers’ Day celebrated at Kasauli International Public School with cultural performances

    Teachers’ Day celebrated at Kasauli International Public School with cultural performances

     

    Sanwara (Kasauli), September 6: Kasauli International Public School, Sanwara, celebrated Teachers’ Day on September 5 with cultural performances and a special felicitation ceremony to honour the contribution of teachers.

    The programme began with the lighting of the ceremonial lamp by Principal Poonam Thakur and CEO Dr Sanjeev Mainra.

    Students presented a series of cultural performances as a mark of respect for their teachers. Young students performed Bhangra and a fun dance, while others presented poems and delivered speeches highlighting the importance of teachers and their contribution to shaping students’ lives. The performances were received with applause from the audience.

    Addressing the gathering, Principal Poonam Thakur extended Teachers’ Day greetings to the faculty and said teachers were “true nation builders” who impart knowledge as well as values and good संस्कार to children.

    CEO Dr Sanjeev Mainra said teachers play an important role in shaping the future of children and guiding society in the right direction, adding that their contribution could never be forgotten.

    Managing Director Hira Thakur, in his message, described teachers as the “soul of the school” and appreciated their dedication, commitment and hard work. He said the institution was proud of its teaching staff and wished them continued success.

    The highlight of the programme was the teacher felicitation ceremony, during which all teachers were honoured with special tags in recognition of their dedication and efforts.

    The programme concluded with teachers expressing their commitment to continue contributing towards the bright future of students and nation-building.

  • BBMB chief engineer Bijender Singh Nara highlights BSL project’s role in nation-building

    BBMB chief engineer Bijender Singh Nara highlights BSL project’s role in nation-building

    Sundernagar, August 15: The 80th Independence Day was celebrated with patriotic fervour at the BSL Senior Secondary School premises in Sundernagar on Saturday, with BBMB Member (Irrigation) and Chief Engineer, BSL Project, Bijender Singh Nara stressing the project’s contribution to irrigation, power generation and national development.

    Nara, who was the chief guest, unfurled the national flag and took the salute at the march-past. NCC cadets and NSS volunteers from schools associated with the BSL project participated in the parade, while students presented a series of patriotic cultural performances.

    Addressing the gathering, Nara paid tribute to the freedom fighters and martyrs of India’s independence movement and remembered the contributions of Mahatma Gandhi, Bhagat Singh, Sukhdev, Rajguru, Chandrashekhar Azad, Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose, Rani Lakshmibai, Tatya Tope, Ram Prasad Bismil, Ashfaqulla Khan, Khudiram Bose and Lala Lajpat Rai, among others.

    Highlighting the role of the Bhakra Beas Management Board (BBMB) and the BSL Project in nation-building, Nara said the Sundernagar-based project was an important example of how water resources could support agriculture, drinking water supply and power generation.

    He said the project links the waters of the Beas river with the Sutlej system and contributes to irrigation and hydropower generation. Projects under BBMB, including the Dehar Power House, play an important role in strengthening the country’s energy security and agricultural productivity, he said.

    “Delivering water to the fields of millions of farmers in Punjab, Haryana, Rajasthan and Himachal Pradesh and generating electricity on a large scale is true national service,” Nara said.

    Appreciating BBMB chairman Manoj Tripathi’s leadership, Nara emphasised efficient water-resource management, environmental protection, scientific silt management and the adoption of modern technologies. He also lauded the dedication and hard work of BBMB officers and employees.

    Addressing students and youth, Nara said the responsibility of safeguarding the country’s freedom now rested with the younger generation. He urged them to focus on knowledge, innovation, discipline, integrity, cleanliness and environmental conservation, stressing that every small contribution can play a significant role in nation-building.

    He reiterated the project’s commitment to optimum utilisation of water resources, clean energy generation and timely fulfilment of the requirements of partner states. He said BBMB would continue to contribute towards the goal of a self-reliant India.

    The chief guest also distributed gifts to students who participated in the cultural programme and march-past.

    Superintending Engineer, Circle No. 2, Harjot Singh Walia, executive engineers Gulshan Mann, Manpreet Singh Gill, DK Verma, Dinesh Kumar Yadav and Chandra Mohan, PRO Avtar Singh Dhaliwal, APRO Ashok Shukla, other BBMB officials and employees, and a large number of local residents were present at the programme.

    The event concluded with patriotic slogans of “Vande Mataram”, “Jai Hind” and “Jai Bharat”.

  • Kailash District Federation chairman Baldev Thakur hoists Tricolour at Dhalli petrol pump

    Kailash District Federation chairman Baldev Thakur hoists Tricolour at Dhalli petrol pump

    Shimla August 15

    Kailash District Federation chairman Baldev Thakur hoisted the national flag at a petrol pump in Dhalli on Saturday to mark the 80th Independence Day. The programme was attended by federation members, staff and local residents.

    Thakur paid tribute to the freedom fighters and martyrs whose sacrifices paved the way for India’s independence. He also saluted the armed forces personnel who have laid down their lives after Independence while protecting the country’s unity, security and borders.

    “I pay my respects to all the great patriots and salute the brave soldiers who sacrificed their lives to protect the unity, security and borders of our country. Their courage and sacrifice will always inspire us,” Thakur said.

    Recalling the significance of August 15, 1947, Baldev said the day marked an important chapter in India’s history and was made possible by the struggle, determination and sacrifices of countless freedom fighters.

    Thakur said Independence Day was not merely an occasion to hoist the national flag but also an opportunity to remember the responsibilities citizens share towards the country’s unity, security and freedom.

    He urged people to contribute towards building a strong, prosperous and self-reliant India while upholding the values and ideals for which the freedom struggle was fought.

    The programme concluded with the national anthem and patriotic fervour among those present.

  • Shimla Police Seize 20g Heroin, 135g Opium in Theog; 3 Arrested

    Shimla Police Seize 20g Heroin, 135g Opium in Theog; 3 Arrested

    Shimla: As part of its ongoing crackdown on drug trafficking, Shimla Police have arrested three young men after allegedly recovering 20 grams of heroin (chitta) and 135 grams of opium from a car in Theog.

    The seizure was made during a checking operation near Theog Cafe on the bypass road following a tip-off. Police said the vehicle was searched in the presence of independent witnesses. Two transparent plastic packets were allegedly found inside the hand rest placed over the car’s boot.

    According to police, one packet contained 20 grams of heroin/chitta, while the second contained 135 grams of opium. The recovered substances and the vehicle were taken into police possession following due procedure.

    A case, FIR No. 111/2026 dated August 13, 2026, has been registered at Theog Police Station under Sections 18, 21 and 29 of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act.

    The arrested accused have been identified as Charanjit Singh, 20, son of late Jitender Singh, Vikram Singh, 22, son of Rajwinder Singh, and Jaskaran Singh, 21, son of late Jitender Singh. All three are residents of Ludhiana, Punjab.

    Police said the accused are being produced before the competent court. Further investigation is underway to establish the source of the drugs, their intended destination and whether other people are linked to the alleged trafficking network.

  • Nasha Mukti Awareness and Pledge Programme at Lakshay Educational Institutions

    Nasha Mukti Awareness and Pledge Programme at Lakshay Educational Institutions

    Manjyat/Arki, August 14:

    A Nasha Mukti (Drug-Free India) Awareness and Pledge Programme was organized jointly at Lakshay Convent School, Manjyat and Lakshay Institute of Education, Arki by the *Brahma Kumaris Organization*. The programme aimed to create awareness among students about the harmful effects of drug abuse and to inspire them to lead a healthy and addiction-free life.

    On the occasion, *Sister Suman* of the Brahma Kumaris delivered an enlightening lecture on the dangers of drug addiction and emphasized the importance of moral values, self-discipline, and spiritual empowerment in preventing substance abuse. She encouraged students to stay away from drugs and become ambassadors of a drug-free society.

    The programme was attended by Dr. P. L. Gupta, Principal of Lakshay Institute of Education, Dr. Kusum Gupta, Principal of Lakshay Convent School*, members of the school and B.Ed. staff, and a large number of students.

    During the event, students enthusiastically took a pledge against drug abuse, promising to refrain from intoxicants and to spread awareness among their families and communities.

    Speaking on the occasion, the dignitaries appreciated the efforts of the Brahma Kumaris Organization in promoting social awareness and healthy living among the youth.

    The programme concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Dr. Kusum Gupta, who expressed gratitude to Sister Suman, the Brahma Kumaris Organization, staff members, and students for making the awareness programme successful.

    The event served as a meaningful step towards building a drug-free and responsible society.

  • 3,200 mid-day meal workers in Shimla await three months’ honorarium

    3,200 mid-day meal workers in Shimla await three months’ honorarium

    Shimla, August 14: Around 3,200 mid-day meal workers employed in government schools across Shimla district have been awaiting their honorarium for the past three months, with the delay causing financial difficulties for workers and their families.

    The Mid-Day Meal Association has urged the state government to release the pending payments at the earliest, warning that prolonged non-payment could force workers to launch a protest.

    Association president Preeti Thakur, along with Rajlila, Anil Verma, Janaki Devi, Sulakshana and Yojana, said many workers depend heavily on their monthly honorarium to meet household expenses, educate their children and manage daily needs.

    Thakur said mid-day meal workers receive an honorarium of ₹5,500 per month, which she described as inadequate given their responsibilities. She said withholding even this modest amount for three months had placed workers under severe financial strain.

    “Workers prepare and serve meals to schoolchildren every day, but many of them are now struggling to meet their own families’ basic needs,” the association said.

    Thakur also alleged that workers were increasingly being assigned duties beyond their primary responsibility of preparing mid-day meals and managing school kitchens. These reportedly include cleaning school water tanks and maintaining kitchen gardens, without any additional honorarium or benefits.

    She warned that if the pending payments were not released soon, workers would be left with no option but to launch an agitation.

    Meanwhile, the Block Elementary Education Officer, Mashobra, said the pending honorarium would be released soon once the required budget was received.

  • 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).

  • LR Group of Institutes hosts state-level Environment Conclave & Himachal Climate Action Awards 2026

    LR Group of Institutes hosts state-level Environment Conclave & Himachal Climate Action Awards 2026

    Solan, August 14

    The LR Group of Institutes and LLR Educational Trust organised a state-level Environment Conclave and Himachal Climate Action Awards 2026 at the institute in Solan under the LiFE (Lifestyle for Environment) initiative.

    The event brought together students, educators, environmental experts, entrepreneurs and community organisations to promote environmental conservation, climate action, sustainable development, green innovation and public participation.

    Dr Hariminder Singh Bawa, Vice-Chancellor of Dr YS Parmar University of Horticulture and Forestry, Nauni, was the chief guest, while Yogesh Aindle, board member of the School of Inspired Leadership, attended as the guest of honour.

    Addressing students, Dr Bawa said climate change and environmental degradation were among the major challenges facing society and stressed the need for greater engagement with young people on these issues. He also encouraged students to stay away from drugs, maintain a positive outlook and work with focus and determination towards their goals. He invited students to visit the Nauni university campus.

    Aindle urged students to develop leadership skills, embrace new ideas and work on innovative solutions. He described young people not merely as the future of the country but as important “change-makers” in the present, calling upon them to take the lead on environmental and social issues.

    Students showcase climate solutions

    Students from schools and colleges across Himachal Pradesh participated in the conclave and presented their ideas, research and innovations related to climate change, environmental conservation and sustainable development.

    The expert jury comprised Dr Prem Lal Gautam, agricultural scientist and Padma Shri awardee; Dr Ritesh Arya, noted hydrogeologist and founder of the Tethys Fossil Museum; and Rumit Walia, Manager—Youth Affairs, Earth Day Network.

    Shruti Raghuvanshi, Samriddhi, Harsimran Kaur and Aradhana Sandhu of Alpine Public School secured the first position. Shodashi Sharma of Doon Valley Public School, Nalagarh, and Arshia of DAV Solan jointly secured the second position, while Pridhi Thakur of DAV Solan stood third.

    Cash prizes were awarded to the top performers, while participating students received certificates of appreciation.

    The conclave also featured research paper presentations, oral presentations and e-posters. An oral presentation panel was chaired by Dr TD Verma, retired professor, Forestry Department, while Dr Amit Sharma and Dr Surbhi Sharma of Motherhood University, Roorkee, served as chairperson and co-chairperson respectively for the e-poster presentations.

    Green innovations take centre stage

    An exhibition showcasing environmental and sustainable development initiatives was also organised. Start-ups, local entrepreneurs, women’s self-help groups, natural farming organisations and makers of eco-friendly products displayed their work and innovations.

    Local products, handmade goods, natural products and environmentally friendly innovations were among the exhibits. Participants and exhibitors were presented certificates of appreciation.

    The Himachal Climate Action Awards 2026 were a key highlight of the event, recognising notable efforts in environmental conservation and climate action.

    LR Group of Institutes Managing Director Shachi Singh said environmental protection could not be limited to a single day or event. She said the institution aimed to make young people not just aware of environmental challenges but active participants in finding solutions.

    “Environmental responsibility is not only the government’s responsibility; it is the responsibility of every individual,” she said, emphasising the importance of reducing unnecessary plastic use, protecting water sources, preventing water wastage and maintaining cleanliness.

    She said small, consistent actions could collectively lay the foundation for significant environmental change and added that the LR Group of Institutes would continue engaging students and young people in environmental initiatives.

    Faculty members and staff, including Dr PP Sharma, Dr Suresh Chauhan, Dr Kanchan Bala Jaswal, Dr Avneet Gupta, Dr Shweta Sandhu, Surat Singh, Dr Sunil Deshta and Hussain Zaidi, were also present.

    The event concluded with the message: “Innovate for the Environment. Inspire Sustainable Change.”