National

Himachal Pradesh Leading the Way in Sustainable Agriculture: Chief Minister

Published

1 year ago

June 11, 2025

Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu announced on Wednesday the government’s commitment to transforming the state into a self-reliant and prosperous region, with a significant emphasis on enhancing the rural economy.

The Chief Minister pointed out that over 80% of the population relies on agriculture and horticulture, making the development of this sector a priority. “To achieve our vision of a prosperous Himachal, we must empower our farming community,” he stated. Notably, Himachal has become the first state in India to implement a Minimum Support Price (MSP) for organic products cultivated through natural farming.

The state has raised the MSP for maize from Rs 30 to Rs 40 per kilogram and for wheat from Rs 40 to Rs 60 per kilogram. Additionally, an MSP of Rs 90 per kilogram has been set for raw turmeric to promote its cultivation and ensure better income security for farmers.

To encourage sustainable agriculture, the government has introduced maize flour produced via natural farming, marketed under the brand Him-Bhog Him-Makki. Over 4,000 quintals of maize have been sourced from approximately 1,590 farming families across 10 districts (excluding Lahaul-Spiti and Kinnaur). This organic flour is now available at Public Distribution System (PDS) outlets and through the government’s online portal, HIM-ERA, improving access for urban and rural consumers alike. Farmers have received INR 1.20 crore directly for about 400 metric tonnes of maize.

Expanding on this initiative, the state has also launched Himachal Haldi, a brand aimed at processing and marketing turmeric grown through natural farming. This effort seeks to enhance income prospects and lessen farmers’ reliance on chemical-dependent crops.

The Chief Minister aims to connect 9.61 lakh farmers with natural farming techniques in a phased approach. Currently, over 2.23 lakh farmers and horticulturists from almost all panchayats are engaged in either fully or partially chemical-free farming.

“When Congress assumed power two and a half years ago, many farmers were compelled to sell their land to settle debts,” emphasized the Chief Minister. “We established the Interest Subvention Scheme to assist these farmers with a one-time settlement, preventing land auctions and facilitating financial recovery.”

The state government is actively working to ensure fair pricing for produce, provide high-quality seeds, improve irrigation infrastructure, support crop insurance, offer specialized training, and promote agricultural research. These initiatives are designed to boost productivity, sustainability, and farmers’ incomes.

Chief Minister Sukhu reaffirmed that these efforts aim not only to enhance the economy but also to safeguard the environment and create a model for sustainable agriculture. “Our initiatives connect traditional farming with modern market needs, positioning Himachal Pradesh as a leader in eco-friendly and inclusive agricultural development,” he declared.

National

Couple Uses Dupatta to Rescue Biker from Flash Flood

Published

5 days 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

6 days 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

1 week 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.