Uttarakhand

Rishikesh, Uttarakhand: A potentially tragic incident in the Ganga River turned into a story of heroism, thanks to the quick thinking and bravery of local rafting guides. A young man began to drown while bathing in the river, but the timely intervention of trained guides and the application of CPR saved his life. The incident occurred at Yusuf Beach in the Eco-Tourism Zone under the Shivpuri police jurisdiction. The 22-year-old youth, identified as Avinash, was visiting Shivpuri with friends and had stepped into the river when his foot slipped, pulling him into deep, fast-flowing water. Rafting Guides Rush to RescueOn hearing the commotion, Vipin Sharma, a trainer conducting rafting sessions nearby, rushed to the scene. Without wasting a moment, he threw a rope and, with the help of ...

Dehradun: The Uttarakhand Uniform Civil Code (Amendment) Ordinance, 2026 has been enacted with immediate effect following approval from Governor Lt. Gen. Gurmeet Singh (Retd.). The ordinance introduces significant reforms to strengthen the provisions of the UCC, particularly regarding marriages and live-in relationships. Major Reforms and ProvisionsThe amendments, numbering nearly a dozen, aim to make the UCC more clear, effective, and practical while enhancing administrative efficiency and protecting citizens’ rights. Key provisions include: Misrepresentation of identity at the time of marriage is now a ground for annulment. Strict punitive measures for coercion, fraud, or unlawful acts in marriages and live-in relationships. Registrars are empowered to issue termination cert...

Dehradun: Uttarakhand has decided to restrict entry of non-Hindus into three of its sacred sites—Badrinath, Kedarnath, and Gangotri—while Yamunotri has yet to make a decision on the matter. The Badrinath-Kedarnath Temple Committee and Gangotri Temple Committee have reportedly reached a consensus on the issue, with formal approvals expected in upcoming board meetings. CM Dhami Stresses Consultation with StakeholdersChief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami emphasized that the management of the Char Dham pilgrimage primarily lies with temple committees, and the government’s role is limited to assistance. He stated that the views of all stakeholders will be considered before finalizing the decisions. Temple Committees Cite Religious and Historical PrecedentsHemant Dwivedi, head of the Badrinat...

Dehradun: The weather in Uttarakhand is changing again after recent rains and snowfall brought relief to the hills. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued an orange alert for heavy rainfall and strong winds across the state, including in Dehradun and its surrounding hilly areas, as a new western disturbance becomes active. Snowfall is also expected in the higher reaches of Dehradun. IMD Warnings Across DistrictsThe IMD has cautioned residents in Dehradun, Haridwar, Pauri, Tehri, Champawat, Nainital, Almora, and Udham Singh Nagar about the possibility of hailstorms and lightning in some areas today. The changing weather has prompted the district administration in Dehradun to declare a holiday for schools and Anganwadi centers. Heavy rains with thunderstorms and lightning ar...

Dehradun: Uttarakhand has completed one year since the implementation of the Uniform Civil Code (UCC), marking a significant milestone in the state’s legal and social reforms. The state government has now introduced several amendments through the Uttarakhand Uniform Civil Code (Amendment) Ordinance, 2026, aimed at strengthening safeguards against forced marriages, fraud, and other violations in marital and live-in relationships. The ordinance, approved by Governor Lt. Gen. Gurmeet Singh (Retd.), came into immediate effect. Milestones Achieved in the First YearSince its implementation on January 27, 2025, Uttarakhand has registered approximately 4.7 lakh marriages under the UCC. Additionally, 68 couples have registered their live-in relationships, while two couples have applied for termi...

Haridwar, Uttarakhand: BJP leader and Uttar Pradesh Women’s Commission Vice-Chairperson Aparna Yadav faced a tense moment at the Haridwar VIP ghat during her Ganga bath on Basant Panchami. The incident occurred when journalists asked her questions regarding the recent divorce controversy involving her husband, Prateek Yadav, whose Instagram post about the divorce had attracted public attention. A video of the incident has gone viral, showing Aparna Yadav visibly upset. She alleged that her photo was taken while she was bathing and directed her security personnel to take pictures of the journalists who questioned her, warning of potential action. The incident has sparked discussion online, highlighting the challenges public figures face regarding privacy, especially during religious r...

Dehradun, January 24Heavy snowfall across Uttarakhand’s mountainous regions turned weddings into unforgettable stories of resilience and devotion, as marriage ceremonies were solemnised amid snow-covered landscapes. While snow brought cheer to tourists and locals alike, it also posed serious challenges—most notably in Chamoli district, where a groom walked 21 kilometres on foot with his bride and wedding procession after roads became impassable. In Rudraprayag district, at the sacred Triyuginarayan Temple—believed to be the legendary wedding site of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati—seven couples tied the knot on Friday amid intense snowfall. The historic temple, a popular wedding destination, witnessed rare scenes as priests, couples, and family members performed rituals while braving fre...

The weather in Mussoorie, popularly known as the “Queen of the Hills,” witnessed a sudden change on Friday as light rain and snow flurries were reported across the town and its surrounding areas. The shift in weather has led to a noticeable drop in temperature, bringing much-needed relief to residents, tourists, and farmers who had been grappling with prolonged dry conditions. From early morning, dark clouds enveloped the sky, accompanied by intermittent light rainfall. In higher-altitude areas, mild snow flurries further enhanced the wintry charm of the hill station. As temperatures dipped, people were seen bundling up in warm clothes and lighting bonfires to cope with the increased chill. For nearly three months, Mussoorie and nearby regions had not experienced any significant rain...

Preparations have begun at the government and administrative level for the renowned Char Dham Yatra in Uttarakhand, which is set to start 11 days earlier this year. The extended schedule is expected to accommodate a larger number of pilgrims. Last year, the Char Dham Yatra commenced on April 30, 2025. However, this year the pilgrimage will begin on April 19, 2026. The Uttarakhand government and tourism department have already initiated preparations, with Tourism Secretary Dheeraj Singh Garvyal stating that all arrangements are being expedited to ensure pilgrims’ convenience. He emphasized that systems for registration and darshan will be fully updated and streamlined. Benefits for PilgrimsTraditionally, the Char Dham Yatra begins on Akshaya Tritiya. This year, Akshaya Tritiya falls o...

A meeting of the Town Vending Committee (TVC) in Mussoorie descended into chaos on Wednesday after a section of street vendors staged a strong protest, accusing the municipal administration of attempting to divide them. The protesters raised slogans, disrupted proceedings, and demanded the dissolution of the Town Vending Committee, alleging bias and unfair treatment. The meeting was held at the Mussoorie Municipal Council auditorium under the chairmanship of Municipal Council President Meera Saklani. The agenda focused on identifying eligible street vendors and implementing a systematic plan for their relocation and rehabilitation in accordance with established norms. However, tensions flared when several vendors objected to the process and accused the administration of deliberately pit...