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India Gazette
11-07-2025
- India Gazette
Swarnim Bharat Yatra: A train journey to commemorate India's freedom struggle
New Delhi [India], July 11 (ANI): A special 'Swarnim Bharat Yatra' tourist train under the Bharat Gaurav scheme will depart on August 14, 2025, from Delhi Safdarjung Railway Station, commemorating India's Independence Day. The 9-night and 10-day tour will cover key historical and cultural sites associated with India's freedom movement and heritage, said the release. The first destination of 'Swarnim Bharat Yatra' is Ahmedabad, home to Sabarmati Ashram, a key center of Mahatma Gandhi's freedom movement, and the intricate 15th-century Adalaj Stepwell. It continues with a day trip to Modhera, known for its ancient Sun Temple, and Patan, home to the UNESCO-listed Rani Ki Vav. In Kevadia. Travellers will witness the iconic Statue of Unity, the tallest statue in the world, and the Sardar Sarovar Dam. The journey then moves to Pune, where the Aga Khan Palace, a Quit India Movement landmark, and sacred sites like Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga await. At Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar or Aurangabad, tourists shall explore the UNESCO World Heritage sites of Ajanta and Ellora Caves, along with Ghrishneshwar Jyotirlinga. At last, the tour will conclude with visits to Jhansi Fort and the historic temples and palaces of Orchha, before returning to Delhi. The Deluxe AC Tourist Train offers 1st AC, 2nd AC, and 3rd AC classes, accommodating 150 tourists with modern amenities such as dining cars, shower cubicles, sensor-based washrooms, foot massagers, and CCTV-enabled security. Boarding is available from Delhi Safdarjung, Gurgaon, Rewari, Ringas, Phulera, and Ajmer. Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) has fixed the tour prices at Rs 71,585 for 3AC, Rs 81,675 for 2AC, Rs 94,845 for 1AC Cabin, and Rs 1,01,430 for the 1AC Coupe. The package includes train travel, a three-star hotel stay, vegetarian meals, transfers, sightseeing in AC vehicle, insurance, and IRCTC tour manager services. (ANI)
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Business Standard
26-06-2025
- Business Standard
Civil, police administration on high alert as Puri prepares for Rath Yatra
The seaside pilgrim town of Puri is set to celebrate the Rath Yatra festival on Friday, with the administration being ready to smoothly conduct the event. The civil and police administrations are on high alert as lakhs of devotees will witness the annual event under tight security. By the grace of Mahaprabhu (Lord Jagannath), we are fully prepared to conduct a smooth Rath Yatra on Friday. We are getting complete support and cooperation from the servitors. All arrangements are in place to make the mega event successful, Shree Jagannath Temple Administration (SJTA) Chief Administrator Arabinda Padhee told reporters on Thursday. After completion of all rituals, the pulling of chariots of the sibling deities - Lord Balabhadra, Devi Subhadra and Lord Jagannath - will begin at 4 pm. Lakhs of devotees from across the country and abroad are expected to participate in the event. About one lakh have reached Puri by Thursday evening, police sources said. Some of them had the opportunity to witness the Nabajouban Darshan (youthful appearance) of the trinity. The deities appeared before the devotees after a fortnight. The public darshan' was stopped after the bathing ritual on June 11. "The deities do not appear before devotees since it is believed they fall ill after the bathing ritual. They remain in quarantine at 'Anasar Ghar' (isolation room) for a fortnight before the Rath Yatra," said Bhaskar Mishra, a researcher in the Jagannath culture. Keeping in view the huge footfall, Odisha DGP Y B Khurania said elaborate security arrangements have been made for the event. The town is heavily fortified with deployment of approximately 10,000 security personnel, including eight companies of Central Armed Police Forces. Khurania said that for the first time, an Integrated Command and Control Centre has been opened in Puri to monitor the entire festival from close quarters. Over 275 AI-enabled CCTV cameras have been installed across Puri and on the roads to Konark, 35 km away and famous for the 13th-century Sun Temple, for surveillance. This apart, the DGP said that the National Security Guard (NSG) snipers will take positions on rooftops along Grand Road in front of the temple. Police drones, anti-sabotage teams, bomb squads, and dog squads are also deployed. The Marine Police, Coast Guard, and Indian Navy will secure the seafront, he said. Meanwhile, IMD in its evening bulletin forecast said thunderstorms with lightning with gusty surface wind speed reaching 30-40 kmph likely to occur in several districts including Puri on Friday. While the Indian Railways runs 365 trains to Puri, the Odisha government has engaged around 800 buses to transport devotees from different districts.
Hindustan Times
26-06-2025
- Hindustan Times
Puri prepared for Rath Yatra, administration on high alert
Puri, The seaside pilgrim town of Puri is set to celebrate the Rath Yatra festival on Friday, with the administration being ready to smoothly conduct the event. Puri prepared for Rath Yatra, administration on high alert The civil and police administrations are on high alert as lakhs of devotees will witness the annual event under tight security. 'By the grace of Mahaprabhu , we are fully prepared to conduct a smooth Rath Yatra on Friday. We are getting complete support and cooperation from the servitors. All arrangements are in place to make the mega event successful,' Shree Jagannath Temple Administration Chief Administrator Arabinda Padhee told reporters on Thursday. After completion of all rituals, the pulling of chariots of the sibling deities - Lord Balabhadra, Devi Subhadra and Lord Jagannath - will begin at 4 pm. Lakhs of devotees from across the country and abroad are expected to participate in the event. About one lakh have reached Puri by Thursday evening, police sources said. Some of them had the opportunity to witness the 'Nabajouban Darshan' of the trinity. The deities appeared before the devotees after a fortnight. The public 'darshan' was stopped after the bathing ritual on June 11. "The deities do not appear before devotees since it is believed they fall ill after the bathing ritual. They remain in quarantine at 'Anasar Ghar' for a fortnight before the Rath Yatra," said Bhaskar Mishra, a researcher in the Jagannath culture. Keeping in view the huge footfall, Odisha DGP Y B Khurania said elaborate security arrangements have been made for the event. The town is heavily fortified with deployment of approximately 10,000 security personnel, including eight companies of Central Armed Police Forces. Khurania said that for the first time, an Integrated Command and Control Centre has been opened in Puri to monitor the entire festival from close quarters. Over 275 AI-enabled CCTV cameras have been installed across Puri and on the roads to Konark, 35 km away and famous for the 13th-century Sun Temple, for surveillance. This apart, the DGP said that the National Security Guard snipers will take positions on rooftops along Grand Road in front of the temple. Police drones, anti-sabotage teams, bomb squads, and dog squads are also deployed. The Marine Police, Coast Guard, and Indian Navy will secure the seafront, he said. Meanwhile, IMD in its evening bulletin forecast said thunderstorms with lightning with gusty surface wind speed reaching 30-40 kmph likely to occur in several districts including Puri on Friday. While the Indian Railways runs 365 trains to Puri, the Odisha government has engaged around 800 buses to transport devotees from different districts. This article was generated from an automated news agency feed without modifications to text.
Time of India
21-06-2025
- Health
- Time of India
How PM Modi combined varjish and virasat, legacy and lifestyle through Yoga Day
As we mark the 11th International Day of Yoga today – millions will unite from Puri to Paris, from Varanasi to Washington to celebrate India's ancient gift of Yoga to humanity that has transcended borders to become a global symbol of wellness, peace, fitness and unity. Since 2015, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has elevated Yoga into a global phenomenon, merging legacy with contemporary lifestyle. By promoting Yoga as a holistic practice that blends physical postures (asanas), breath control (pranayama) and meditation, he has made it relevant to today's fast-paced world. Events at iconic Indian sites like Rani Ki Vav and Konark's Sun Temple during connect Yoga to our civilizational heritage and its adoption in gyms, corporate offices and colleges, reflect its seamless integration into modern lifestyles. PM Modi's vision has ensured Yoga remains a living tradition and not a relic. A decade ago PM Modi proposed June 21 as the International Day of Yoga during his inaugural UN General Assembly speech. Within an unprecedented 90 days the resolution garnered support from 177 countries, setting a record for the fastest UN consensus. This diplomatic triumph was not just a win for India but a recognition of Yoga as a secular, inclusive practice. PM Modi's persistent advocacy through international forums and bilateral engagements ensured Yoga's official recognition and millions now participate in Yoga Day celebrations, from New York's Times Square to Tokyo's public squares. Since then, Yoga has evolved into a bigger worldwide phenomenon. Its appeal lies in its simplicity and adaptability, requiring only a mat and of course mindfulness. Indian embassies and cultural missions have fueled this global enthusiasm through 'Yoga diplomacy' organising events, workshops and festivals. Social media has amplified its reach with influencers, celebrities and everyday practitioners sharing Yoga's benefits. Yoga's universal language of wellness has made it a truly global movement. On one hand, Yoga embodies India's virasat (heritage) while redefining varzish (fitness). By hosting Yoga sessions at 100 iconic tourist spots and 50 cultural heritage sites, India is underscoring Yoga's deep roots in our civilizational ethos. These sites are not mere backdrops but symbols of continuity, linking ancient wisdom to modern practice. Unlike Western fitness regimes focused on competition, Yoga offers an inclusive, collaborative approach to fitness, aiming for harmony between body, mind and environment. In a sense, it is also our message to the world – we need less of divided camps and fighting and more of uniting – from Ukraine to Russia, from Israel to Iran. We need a situation of collaboration with environment not one of conflict. Yoga's greatest strength is its inclusivity, transcending barriers of religion, culture, and ideology. Rooted in Indian philosophy, it requires no faith or ritual- only awareness and discipline. Christians in California to Muslims in Abu Dhabi to Buddhists in Tokyo and atheists in Beijing – all practice Yoga and are united by its universal appeal. In a polarised world, Yoga serves as an apolitical oasis fostering unity through shared breath. This message of Yog or union is what makes it India's most potent expression of soft power, quietly shaping global perceptions and narratives without force. Unlike traditional diplomacy, Yoga builds bridges through serenity not cynical strategy. Indian missions worldwide host Yoga programs, while Indian Yoga teachers are celebrated globally. This subtle cultural influence strengthens India's global presence fostering goodwill and mutual respect by offering a philosophy of peace and wellness. Yoga truly positions India as a beacon of harmony in a world grappling with division and conflict. It strengthens our advocacy of Buddh over Yuddh! Yoga has also revolutionised fitness by offering a low-cost, low-injury and high-impact alternative to conventional workouts. Its emphasis on mindfulness and flexibility suits all ages and all body types, challenging the aggressive, vanity-driven pumping iron culture. Integrated into corporate wellness programs, schools (via NEP 2020) and public health initiatives like Ayushman Bharat, Yoga promotes preventive healthcare and reduces non-communicable diseases too. Yoga industry has also sparked huge economic growth. Globally, it's a US 130 billion dollar market with India's wellness economy projected to hit US 70 billion dollars by 2026. The Ministry of AYUSH's Yoga Certification Board has professionalised training, creating jobs for thousands, especially in tier-2 and tier-3 cities as certified trainers, retreat facilitators and wellness consultants. Digital Startups are merging technology with tradition, offering AI-driven posture correction and virtual classes, further boosting the Yoga economy. Under PM Modi's leadership, Yoga has now transcended its ancient origins to become a global lifestyle, uniting heritage and fitness, tradition and innovation, Vyayaam and Virasat. Its official recognition by the UN, its widespread global adoption and its economic impact highlight India's cultural influence. As a soft power, Yoga builds bridges where muscular politics falter and its inclusive nature unites diverse communities. Yoga is not just India's past—it's shaping a healthier, harmonious future for the world, with Bharat truly in the leading pose. Facebook Twitter Linkedin Email Disclaimer Views expressed above are the author's own.
New Indian Express
30-04-2025
- New Indian Express
Tourism stakeholders criticise Kashmir's decision to close 48 tourist spots for security audit
SRINAGAR: The recent decision to temporarily close for security audit following the has drawn sharp criticism from tourism stakeholders, who fear it will tarnish the Valley's image and deter potential travellers. 'The decision to close 48 tourist destinations in Kashmir by the government is very unfortunate,' said prominent hotelier and J&K Hoteliers Club president Mushtaq Chaya. 'Closure of 48 tourist spots will send a very bad message outside and those tourists who were planning to visit Kashmir will now hesitate to travel to the Valley.' The government's move comes in the wake of the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam that killed The incident has triggered heightened security concerns and led to a comprehensive review of safety at tourist locations across Jammu and Kashmir. Officials stated that the closures are temporary and aimed at ensuring the security of visitors. The 48 destinations fall across eight districts, Srinagar, Budgam, Baramulla, Anantnag, Kulgam, Kupwara, Ganderbal and Pulwama, and include picturesque but lesser-known spots such as Yousmarg, Tosamaidan, Doodpathri, Aharbal, Kousarnag, Bangus, Verinag Garden, Sinthan Top, Margan Top, Naranag and Astanmarg Viewpoint. Some prominent locations closed in north Kashmir include Gurez, Bangus Valley, Baba Reshi and Kaman Post, areas that had only recently opened to tourists due to the improved security situation in the region. In Srinagar, the historic Jamia Masjid in Nowhatta, along with Badamwari, Rajouri Kadal, Aali Kadal, Faqir Gujri and parts of Dachigam National Park, are among the 15 places affected. In central Kashmir, Yousmarg, Tosamaidan and the rapidly emerging Doodpathri destination have been closed. In the south, tourist attractions like Aharbal, the Sun Temple in Kehribal, Verinag, Sinthan Top and Margan Top have also been affected. Travel Agents Association of Kashmir (TAAK) Secretary General Sajad Kralyari said the closures have created a negative atmosphere, resulting in a wave of cancellations. 'Closure of 48 tourist spots has added to the negativity and might lead to further cancellations,' he said. 'The officials have told us that after security clearance, these tourist spots will again be thrown open.' Despite the setbacks, Kralyari remained hopeful. 'Major tourist destinations including Sonamarg, Gulmarg, Pahalgam, Dal Lake, Boulevard and Mughal Gardens are open. Ninety percent of tourists visit these places only,' he said. 'There have been about 80–90 percent cancellations. We are hopeful of revival of tourism again. We are receiving queries again.' He also credited the warm response of locals and celebrity actor Atul Kulkarni's recent visit for helping to restore confidence in Kashmir's safety. 'The hospitality displayed by the Kashmiri people after the Pahalgam terror attack and celebrity Atul Kulkarni's visit to Kashmir has sent a message outside that Kashmir is safe. We are hopeful that tourism will again pick up in the Valley,' he added. The Pahalgam attack has sparked massive outrage in the region. For the first time in over three decades of militancy, a complete shutdown was observed across the Valley against the killings of civilians. People also took out rallies and protests denouncing the violence.
