National

UP Builds 37,403 Farm Ponds to Enhance Irrigation, Introduces Online Application for 2025-26

Published

1 year ago

June 14, 2025

In a robust effort to enhance irrigation access and promote water conservation among farmers, the Uttar Pradesh government has successfully constructed 37,403 farm ponds since the 2017–18 fiscal year. This initiative, part of the ‘Khet Talab Yojana,’ aims to enable farmers to effectively utilize rainwater for agricultural purposes, thereby fostering self-reliance and sustainability in crop production.

Agriculture Minister Surya Pratap Shahi announced on Saturday that the online application process for farmers to construct farm ponds for the year 2025–26 has commenced under the “Other Intervention” component of the “Per Drop More Crop” initiative within the Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana.

Under the ‘Khet Talab Yojana,’ the focus is on promoting rainwater harvesting. Online applications began on June 3, and submissions will be reviewed on a first-come, first-served basis via the official department website: [https://agridarshan.up.gov.in](https://agridarshan.up.gov.in).

The cost for constructing a small pond (22×20×3 meters) is set at ₹1.05 lakh, with farmers and the government each contributing ₹52,500. Upon confirmation of their token, farmers will receive an SMS notification on their registered mobile number. The portal will indicate the final date for document uploads, but if the SMS is not received, the portal date will still apply as final. A token fee of ₹1,000 is required at the time of booking, along with the submission of land ownership documents (khasra/khatauni) and a declaration form through the portal. Failure to complete these steps will result in automatic cancellation of the booking, transferring it to the next eligible farmer on the waiting list.

The Agriculture Minister also emphasized that installation of a micro-irrigation system (drip/sprinkler) is mandatory for beneficiaries of the ponds. Eligibility extends to farmers who have had such systems installed by the Horticulture or Agriculture Departments within the last seven years and are operational at the time of application. Others must submit a tripartite agreement with the Horticulture Department during the verification process. The subsidy will be provided in two installments through Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT).

A separate portal will be set up for applications related to pump set subsidies. Farmers can receive a subsidy of 50% of the total cost, capped at ₹15,000 per unit. This benefit is available only to those with micro-irrigation systems installed through the Horticulture Department by the registration date, who have also completed their farm pond construction. For further information, farmers are encouraged to reach out to their district agriculture officers and staff.

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.