National

CM Sukhu Unveils Border Tourism at Shipki-La and Proposes Kailash Mansarovar Yatra Route through Himachal

Published

1 year ago

June 10, 2025

On Tuesday, Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu inaugurated border tourism activities at Shipki-La, a high-altitude motorable mountain pass situated at 3,930 meters on the India-China border in Kinnaur’s tribal district.

Speaking to the gathered crowd, the Chief Minister announced the easing of tourist restrictions in the border area, inviting visitors to explore the breathtaking scenery of Shipki-La. This step is expected to enhance local tourism and invigorate the economies of nearby communities.

The Chief Minister revealed that the state government has sought approval from the Ministry of Defence to open border areas—Lepcha, Shipki-La, Giu, and Rani Kanda—for tourism, and with the Ministry’s permission granted, the initiative is now officially underway.

Sukhu expressed intentions to advocate for the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra to commence via Shipki-La, stating, “I will discuss this matter with the Prime Minister. Shipki-La offers the most accessible route for the Yatra.”

He also highlighted Shipki-La’s historical importance as an ancient trade route between India and Tibet, which has been closed since 2020, expressing optimism about its potential reopening for trade and cultural exchange, and assured that this matter would be taken up with the central authorities.

Additionally, the Chief Minister proposed establishing a Himachal Scout Battalion with a dedicated recruitment quota for locals in border regions. He also committed to pursuing the development of an airport to enhance tourism in these areas.

He called on the Centre to eliminate the Inner Line Check Post, which currently complicates travel for tourists. To facilitate a smooth travel experience, the state plans to collaborate closely with the Indian Army and paramilitary forces.

Furthermore, he announced that the Wangtu-Atargu-Mud-Bhaba road, linking Lahaul-Spiti with Kinnaur, has been cleared by the National Wildlife Board. This project will significantly cut the distance between Shimla and Kaza by approximately 100 kilometers.

The Chief Minister emphasized the dual strategic and developmental importance of border roads, stating that they would not only enhance national security but also improve connectivity to remote areas.

Plans were also discussed for promoting tourism in conjunction with the Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP), utilizing ITBP helipads and healthcare resources to support tourism and local communities.

During the event, he inaugurated the Border Forest Park at Shipki-La and visited the Indira Gandhi Point. Revenue Minister Jagat Singh Negi extended a warm welcome to the Chief Minister, expressing appreciation for the launch of border tourism and advocating for an on-demand bus service in the region, ensuring further infrastructure improvements at Shipki-La soon.

Local Gram Panchayat Pradhan Baldev Negi also welcomed the Chief Minister, and vibrant cultural performances were presented by local Mahila Mandals to celebrate the occasion.

National

Couple Uses Dupatta to Rescue Biker from Flash Flood

Published

2 weeks ago

September 1, 2026

Namma Kudla

National: A family in Himachal Pradesh’s Chamba risked their lives to rescue a biker trapped in a flash flood following heavy rainfall.

The incident occurred on the Kakiara-Tunuhatti road in the Bharmala area of Bhatiyat. Heavy rain caused water to flood the road, creating a strong and dangerous current.

The biker struggled to stay safe as he was caught in the fast-flowing water. Two women, including a newlywed woman, quickly used a dupatta as a makeshift rope to rescue him.

The biker held onto the dupatta while the family members pulled him towards safety. Another person also joined the rescue effort.

A video of the incident has gone viral on social media. The family’s courage and quick thinking have received widespread praise online.

National

Two Arrested for Alleged Assault on Minor Girl in Moving Bus

Published

2 weeks ago

August 31, 2026

Namma Kudla

Noida: Two men, including a bus driver and conductor, have been arrested for allegedly gang-raping a 16-year-old girl on a moving sleeper bus in Greater Noida.

Police said the incident occurred on August 4 when the girl boarded an empty bus while travelling to Noida Sector 63.

The accused allegedly assaulted the girl and later abandoned her near Kashmere Gate in Delhi, around 40 kilometres away.

Following the survivor’s complaint, police launched an investigation and arrested both accused from Timarpur in North Delhi.

The bus has been seized, and CCTV footage and forensic evidence are being examined.

Further investigation is underway.

National

21-Year-Old Model Murdered Inside Home, Gym Trainer Accused

Published

3 weeks ago

August 27, 2026

Namma Kudla

New Delhi: A 21-year-old woman was allegedly stabbed to death inside her home in West Delhi on Wednesday. The police suspect her gym trainer, identified as Imran, in the case.

The victim, identified as Muskan, was a student and model. She was reportedly alone at her home on the second floor of a building in Tilak Nagar when the incident took place.

According to the police, Imran allegedly attacked Muskan with a knife. He then fled from the spot.

Neighbours heard Muskan’s screams and rushed to her house. They found her lying in a pool of blood.

The neighbours immediately took her to a nearby hospital. However, she died while undergoing treatment.

Police teams have launched a search for the accused. Investigators are also checking CCTV footage from the area to trace his movements.

Muskan’s friend Aman said she was the youngest of three sisters. He said her elder sister, who is in Chandigarh, called him after learning about the attack.

Aman said he immediately asked another friend to reach the house and take Muskan to the hospital. By the time he arrived, an ambulance had already taken her away.

He also claimed that Muskan’s sisters had earlier told him that Imran used to harass her. He said Imran had allegedly behaved in a similar manner in the past.

The police are investigating the exact motive behind the murder. Further details are awaited.