National

Following Devotees, UP Government Prepared to Welcome Rare Indian Skimmer Chicks on Ganga Sands; Security Enhanced

Published

11 months ago

March 9, 2025

Following the unprecedented influx of over 6.6 billion devotees at the Maha Kumbh Mela, preparations are underway to welcome the rare Indian skimmer chicks on the banks of the Ganga. At the start of the festival, more than 150 pairs of Indian skimmers made their appearance—these birds typically lay their eggs between December and late February or early March. To ensure their safety, a large number of watchers have been assigned to protect their eggs and newly hatched chicks from wild animals, and the wildlife team has been placed on high alert.

Over 90 species of both native and migratory birds have also been spotted at this monumental gathering, playing a crucial role in pollution control. Bird-watching aficionados from all over the world flock to the Maha Kumbh to observe these species, prompting the organization of a dedicated bird festival. Under the guidance of Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, a specialized plan has been devised to promote ecotourism, fostering environmental preservation while creating new job opportunities for local communities.

On Sunday, Prayagraj DFO Arvind Kumar Yadav reported that over 150 pairs of Indian skimmers have settled in the Sangam region, coexisting harmoniously with millions of attendees during the Maha Kumbh. To protect their eggs from predators, the skimmers bury them in the sand. The Yogi government has implemented multiple protective measures to ensure the well-being of both the skimmers and their chicks, while also enhancing ecotourism efforts.

A significant number of watchers have been deployed to safeguard the rare eggs and young skimmers from wildlife and other potential threats. The wildlife team is actively monitoring the area, conducting both security patrols and bird censuses. Ongoing patrolling initiatives are in place to protect the birds and their nests.

A detailed plan has been developed to promote ecotourism, balancing environmental conservation with creating substantial employment for local residents. The arrival of more than 90 species of birds enhances the region’s biodiversity and plays a vital role in maintaining its ecological equilibrium.

National

Three Burned Alive as Car Falls from Bridge in Gujarat’s Rajkot

Published

2 weeks ago

January 31, 2026

Namma Kudla

Gujarat: A tragic accident claimed the lives of three people in Gujarat’s Rajkot district on Monday.A car fell from a bridge and caught fire, killing all occupants on the spot.

The incident occurred on the Gondal–Atkot highway.The car was travelling from Chhota Udepur towards Gondal.

According to reports, the vehicle hit the bridge’s safety barrier.After the collision, the car fell nearly eight feet into a small stream below the bridge.

Soon after the fall, the car caught fire.The occupants were trapped inside the vehicle and were unable to escape.All three were burned alive and died at the scene.

Police and fire personnel rushed to the spot after receiving information.The fire was later brought under control.The bodies were recovered and sent for post-mortem examination.

The exact cause of the accident is under investigation. Further details are awaited.

National

Girl Records Reels Inside Jail, Video Sparks Debate

Published

2 weeks ago

January 30, 2026

Namma Kudla

Bhopal: A young woman has come under public attention after recording reels inside a jail while meeting her boyfriend.

The incident happened at Raipur Central Jail in Chhattisgarh, which is known for high security. Mobile phones are strictly not allowed inside the jail. Despite this rule, the woman carried her phone into the visitor room.

She recorded videos while talking to her boyfriend during the meeting. In the video, she speaks emotionally about visiting him on his birthday. She says she feels sad because she cannot stay with him on his special day.

After the meeting, she uploaded the video on her social media account. The video quickly went viral on different platforms. The inmate seen in the video is identified as Tarakeshwar.

He is currently lodged in Raipur Central Jail. He is an accused in a case under the NDPS Act. The incident has raised serious questions about jail security.

People on social media are criticising jail staff and officials. Many users are asking how a mobile phone was allowed inside the jail.

They are also questioning the checking process at the jail entrance. So far, jail authorities have not given any official reaction.

National

MBBS Student Alleges She Was Drugged, Raped by Friend in Delhi Hotel

Published

4 months ago

October 6, 2025

Namma Kudla

New Delhi: An 18-year-old MBBS student has accused a 20-year-old male friend of drugging and sexually assaulting her at a hotel in Delhi’s Adarsh Nagar area. The alleged incident took place on September 9, police officials said.

According to the complaint, the accused, who is also a medical student, invited the woman to “Hotel Apple” on the pretext of spending time together. Once there, he allegedly gave her a drink laced with drugs and then raped her.

The survivor told police that the accused recorded obscene videos and took pictures during the assault. He later threatened to make the content viral if she reported the incident.

The woman, a native of Jind in Haryana, is currently staying at the hostel of Baba Saheb Ambedkar Medical College in Rohini, Delhi.

Based on her complaint, police have registered a case under relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code. A search is underway to locate and arrest the accused, officials added.

In a separate case earlier this month, a school manager in Uttar Pradesh was arrested for allegedly raping a Class 8 student. In February, a tuition teacher in Delhi’s CR Park area was accused of repeatedly raping a 15-year-old student over three years and threatening her with blackmail.