Latest news with #TelanganaForestDepartment
The Hindu
16-07-2025
- General
- The Hindu
56% of snakes rescued in Telangana so far are venomous
A total of 5,954 snakes were rescued across Telangana between January 1 and June 30, 2025, by Friends of Snakes Society (FOS) in coordination with the Telangana Forest Department. Of them, 56% (3,337) of them were venomous and the rest were non-Venoumous, which were relocated to suitable forest habitats. 'Majority of the rescues happen in Hyderabad and surrounding districts of Medchal-Malkajgiri, Rangareddy, Medak, and Hyderabad,' said Avinash Visvanathan, FOS's general secretary. Among venomous species, the Spectacled Cobra accounted for the majority of cases, with 2,970, followed by 344 Russell's Vipers and 23 Common Kraits. Non-venomous rescues included commonly encountered species such as the Indian Rat Snake, Checkered Keelback, and Bronzeback Tree Snake, along with rarer species like the Indian Rock Python, Red Sand Boa, and Barred Wolf Snake. Besides the rescue work, FoS conducted over 200 snake awareness workshops, reaching over 40,000 individuals at schools, colleges, police and forest academies, public institutions, and rural communities. The focus was on the ecological importance of snakes, safe practices during snake encounters, first aid for snakebites, and debunking prevalent myths. The society's 24/7 helpline number is 8374233366.
Hans India
06-07-2025
- General
- Hans India
‘Bibi-Ka-Alam' passes off peacefully in Hyderabad
The historic 'Bibi-ka-Alam' procession passed off peacefully in the old city of Hyderabad amid tight security as solemnity and mourning marked 'Yaum-e-Ashura' on Sunday. Thousands of people participated in the procession, which started from Bibi Ka Alawa in a traditional manner and concluded at Chaderghat on the banks of the Musi River after passing through various parts of the old city. The procession passed through Sheikh Faiz Kaman, Yakutpura Darwaza, Etebar Chowk, Charminar, Gulzar Houz, Panjeshah, Mani Mir Alam, Purani Haveli and Darulshifa. The 'Bibi ka Alam' was carried on a caparisoned elephant, brought from Karnataka. The organisers arranged the elephant belonging to the Sri Karibasaveshwara Mutt in Karnataka after the Telangana Forest Department refused to allow an elephant earlier identified by organisers in Delhi, citing animal welfare concerns and transport regulations. 'Yaum-e-Ashura' or the 10th day of Muharram, the first month of the Islamic calendar, is observed in memory of the martyrdom of Prophet Mohammed's grandson Imam Hussain and his followers at the battle of Karbala. The gold-and-diamond-studded 'alam' or standard is believed to contain a piece of wooden plank on which Bibi Fatima Zehra, daughter of Prophet Mohammed, was given the final ablution. The 'alam' was installed over 430 years ago during the Qutub Shahi dynasty, and the practice of carrying the 'alam' on an elephant has been continuing since then. For several years, elephants from the Nehru Zoological Park were used for the annual procession. However, after the courts refused permission for the use of captive elephants for religious processions, the organisers have been bringing elephants from other states. Last year, an elephant belonging to the Shri Jagadguru Panchacharya Mandir Trust in Karnataka was brought for the procession. Groups of self-flagellating mourners were leading the procession. Blood oozed out from the heads and chests of bare-chested Shia mourners who flagellated themselves with sharp-edged objects. Amid cries of 'Ya Hussain' and recitation of 'marsiya' (elegies) and 'noha-khwani' (poems expressing sorrow), barefoot youths using knives, blade-encrusted chains and other sharp-edged weapons, inflicted injuries on themselves to show solidarity with the sufferings of the martyrs. Others were seen crying and beating their chests. The police made elaborate security arrangements with the deployment of over 3,000 personnel. Policemen on horses were seen piloting the procession. Traffic was diverted at a few points for the annual procession. Top government officials, Hyderabad Police Commissioner C.V. Anand, leaders of different political parties and family members of Nizam, ruler of the erstwhile Hyderabad State, offered 'dhattis' en route to the procession. The Police Commissioner personally supervised the security arrangements from the historic Charminar. He provided timely instructions to all officers to ensure the procession proceeded smoothly. On behalf of the Hyderabad City Police, Anand offered 'Dhattis' to the 'alam' at Charminar. Over 3,000 police personnel provided robust security for the Bibi Ka Alam procession. Thanks to proactive planning and all necessary measures taken, the Bibi Ka Alam procession concluded peacefully without any untoward incidents, the police chief said. The Sunni Muslims observed the day by fasting and holding meetings to remember the sacrifices of Imam Hussain and his followers, who were martyred in 61 Hijri or 681 CE at Karbala in present-day Iraq. The fasting is observed on two days – the ninth and 10th or the 10th and 11th Muharram.
Hans India
06-07-2025
- General
- Hans India
‘Bibi-Ka-Alam' procession underway in Hyderabad amid tight security
The historic 'Bibi-ka-Alam' procession was underway in the old city of Hyderabad amid tight security as solemnity and mourning marked 'Yaum-e-Ashura' on Sunday. Thousands of people were participating in the procession, which started from Bibi Ka Alawa in a traditional manner. The procession passes through various parts of the old city before concluding at Chaderghat on the banks of the Musi River after sunset. The 'Bibi ka Alam' was carried on a caparisoned elephant, brought from Karnataka. The elephant 'Lakshmi' stopped at a couple of places, leading to a slowdown of the procession. The procession will pass through Sheikh Faiz Kaman, Yakutpura Darwaza, Etebar Chowk, Charminar, Gulzar Houz, Panjeshah, Mani Mir Alam, Purani Haveli, and Darulshifa. The organisers arranged the elephant belonging to the Sri Karibasaveshwara Mutt in Karnataka after the Telangana Forest Department refused to allow an elephant earlier identified by organisers in Delhi, citing animal welfare concerns and transport regulations. 'Yaum-e-Ashura' or 10th day of Muharram, the first month of the Islamic calendar, is observed in memory of the martyrdom of Prophet Mohammed's grandson Imam Hussain and his followers at the battle of Karbala. The gold-and-diamond-studded 'alam' or standard is believed to contain a piece of wooden plank on which Bibi Fatima Zehra, daughter of Prophet Mohammed, was given the final ablution. The 'alam' was installed over 430 years ago during the Qutub Shahi dynasty, and the practice of carrying it on an elephant has been continuing since then. For several years, the elephants from the Nehru Zoological Park were used for the annual procession. However, after the courts refused permission for the use of captive elephants for religious processions, the organisers have been bringing elephants from other states. Last year, an elephant belonging to the Shri Jagadguru Panchacharya Mandir Trust in Karnataka was brought for the procession. Groups of self-flagellating mourners were leading the procession. Blood oozed out from the heads and chests of bare-chested Shia mourners who flagellated themselves with sharp-edged objects. Amid cries of 'Ya Hussain' and recitation of 'marsiya' (elegies) and 'noha-khwani' (poems expressing sorrow), barefoot youths using knives, blade-encrusted chains and other sharp-edged weapons, inflicted injuries on themselves to show solidarity with the sufferings of the martyrs. Others were seen crying and beating their chests. The police made elaborate security arrangements and deployed around 2,000 personnel. Policemen on horses were seen piloting the procession. Traffic was diverted at a few points for the annual procession. Top government officials, the Hyderabad Police Commissioner, leaders of different political parties and family members of Nizam, ruler of erstwhile Hyderabad State, offered 'dhattis' en route the procession. The Sunni Muslims observed the day by fasting and holding meetings to remember the sacrifices of Imam Hussain and his followers, who were martyred in 61 Hijri or 681 CE at Karbala in present-day Iraq. The fasting is observed on two days – ninth and 10th or the 10th and 11th Muharram.
India.com
05-06-2025
- Entertainment
- India.com
Allu Arjun Celebrates World Environment Day With Heartfelt Message: Let's Unite To...
World Environment Day 2025: National Award winner Allu Arjun is not only ruling hearts across the globe but also proving the power of his stardom at the box office. Beyond his cinematic achievements, the Pushpa Star is also a 'Green Warrior' who consistently spreads awareness about the importance of a clean and green environment. As the world celebrates World Environment Day, Allu Arjun marked the occasion with a special note. Taking to his social media, The pan-India star shared a picture of a green planet and wrote a heartfelt message, 'Let's unite to make our planet clean and green #WorldEnvironmentDay.' Let's unite to make our planet clean and green _#WorldEnvironmentDay — Allu Arjun (@alluarjun) June 5, 2025 Remarkably, Allu Arjun has been a true Green Warrior, consistently taking the lead in spreading awareness about environmental conservation. In 2021, he was appointed as the brand ambassador of the Telangana Forest Department. The Pan-India actor is also known for gifting plants and seeds to his friends and family, a thoughtful gesture that reflects his commitment to nature. With over 100 types of plants at both his home and office, Allu Arjun exemplifies how integrating greenery into daily life can be both aesthetically pleasing and beneficial for well-being. He also initiated the Go Green campaign, aimed at promoting sustainable practices and raising awareness about the importance of preserving the environment. Moreover, one of his most significant contributions to environmental conservation is the adoption of a village, where he actively promotes eco-friendly practices and green living. On work front, Allu Arjun created an example of success with 'Pushpa 2: The Rule'. While he won the hearts of the masses with the film, he also shattered box office records, with the film collecting a massive Rs 800 crore in Hindi and around Rs1800 crore worldwide. Now, everyone is eagerly looking forward to seeing what Allu Arjun has in store next.
Hans India
15-05-2025
- Hans India
Pillalamarri Prepares for Global Spotlight as Miss World Contestants Arrive on May 16
Mahabubnagar: Mahabubnagar's historic and iconic tourism site, Pillalamarri, is all set to step into the global limelight as Miss World contestants from 22 countries are scheduled to visit the ancient banyan wonder on May 16 at 5 PM, as part of the ongoing Miss World beauty pageant being held in Hyderabad from May 10 to 31. In anticipation of this high-profile visit, District Collector Vijayaendra Boie, along with SP D. Janaki, Additional Collectors Shivendra Pratap (Local Bodies) and Mohan Rao (Revenue), conducted a comprehensive review of the arrangements on Thursday. From tight security protocols to showcasing cultural heritage, authorities are leaving no stone unturned to ensure a memorable experience for the international guests. Located just 4.5 km from Mahabubnagar town, Pillalamarri is home to a majestic 700-year-old banyan tree, spreading across 3.5 acres. Once known as Peerlamarri, it is now revered as a natural and spiritual heritage site, attracting thousands of visitors annually. The ancient tree, recognized as one of the largest in India by the Telangana Forest Department, symbolizes endurance and regeneration. After suffering damage in 2017, the tree underwent advanced treatments like IV chlorpyrifos injections and is now thriving under protective care, with tourists able to view it from a specially constructed foot-over bridge. The Miss World delegation will spend two hours exploring Pillalamarri's archaeological museum, which houses rare sculptures, ancient coins, and relics from the Stone Age to the Qutb Shahi era. Notably, the Sri Rajarajeshwara Temple, reconstructed at this site after being relocated from Eerladinne due to the Srisailam project, showcases Vijayanagara architectural brilliance and religious harmony with artifacts from Hindu, Buddhist, and Jain traditions. Complementing the museum are a mini zoo, deer park, aquariums, and interpretation centers, making Pillalamarri a unique blend of heritage, knowledge, and nature. Collector Vijayaendra Boie emphasized the need for seamless coordination among departments, with cultural performances and guided tours planned for the visitors. Instructions were issued to ensure that every moment of the visit reflects Telangana's hospitality and vibrant culture. SP D. Janaki confirmed that a security force of 1,000 personnel has been deployed, with support from IG Satyanarayana, Jogulamba Zone DIG L.H. Chauhan, and senior officers. Additional SP Ramulu, DFO Satyanarayana, Municipal Commissioner Maheshwar Reddy, RDO Naveen, and DEO Praveen Kumar were among those present during the review. This prestigious visit is seen as a golden opportunity to promote Telangana's tourism to the international stage. With the state's tourism slogan, 'Telangana Zaroor Aana', officials hope the Miss World contestants will become global ambassadors for its beauty, culture, and history. Ends.
