Uttarakhand Gets Development Projects Worth ₹1,475.31 Crore; Amit Shah and CM Dhami Launch 62 Projects

44 Projects Worth ₹1,073.11 Crore Laid Foundation Stones for, While 18 Projects Worth ₹402.20 Crore Inaugurated During State Foundation Day Celebrations

Dehradun: Uttarakhand received a major development boost on Friday as Union Home and Cooperation Minister Amit Shah, along with Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami, announced development projects worth ₹1,475.31 crore during the State Foundation Day celebrations at Parade Ground in Dehradun.

A total of 62 development projects were included in the programme. Foundation stones were laid for 44 projects worth ₹1,073.11 crore, while 18 projects amounting to ₹402.20 crore were inaugurated.

The programme was organised as part of the Uttarakhand State Foundation Day celebrations, being held from November 6 to 13. The projects cover several key sectors, including roads, electricity, drinking water, urban development, education, tourism, healthcare and other essential infrastructure. The government expects these initiatives to improve public facilities and accelerate development across different parts of the state.

The energy sector received a significant allocation, with 20 projects of Uttarakhand Power Corporation Limited (UPCL), worth ₹472.33 crore, receiving foundation stones. Three additional projects worth ₹77.93 crore were inaugurated. These initiatives are aimed at strengthening the state’s electricity distribution network and expanding power infrastructure.

In the drinking water sector, eight projects worth ₹191.17 crore under the Uttarakhand Peyjal Nigam were launched, while five projects worth ₹82.03 crore were inaugurated. In addition, two projects worth ₹62.30 crore under the Jal Sansthan were approved for construction. These projects are expected to improve drinking water facilities in various areas.

Keeping the preparations for the upcoming Kumbh Mela 2027 in view, special attention has also been given to infrastructure development in Haridwar. The Urban Development Department received approval for four projects worth ₹92.25 crore, while another project worth ₹10.95 crore was inaugurated. These initiatives include the development of roads, bridges and other essential infrastructure required for the mega religious gathering.

The Public Works Department also witnessed significant progress, with one project worth ₹18.78 crore receiving a foundation stone and three projects worth ₹99.68 crore being inaugurated. These projects are expected to strengthen road connectivity and other construction-related infrastructure.

To promote tourism, two projects worth ₹43.70 crore under the Tourism Department were launched. These include the Dobra-Chanthi Park project in Tehri and electricity supply-related works for the Shri Hemkund Sahib Ropeway Project.

The Technical Education Department received approval for one project worth ₹35.06 crore, while three projects worth ₹61.98 crore were inaugurated. The construction of a building at the Government Polytechnic in New Tehri is among the important initiatives in this sector.

The Home Department also received a major boost with the foundation stones being laid for two projects worth ₹68.27 crore. A Cyber Excellence Centre will be established in Dehradun at a cost of ₹31.63 crore, while residential buildings for the Fire Station in Haldwani will be constructed at an estimated cost of ₹36.64 crore. These projects are expected to strengthen the state’s cyber security infrastructure and improve the operational capacity of the Fire and Emergency Services Department.

In the dairy sector, a project worth ₹48.21 crore was launched in Sitarganj. It includes the construction of a milk powder plant, an ice cream plant and a bakery unit. The initiative is expected to strengthen dairy processing facilities and create new economic opportunities.

The Higher Education Department will construct a postgraduate block at the Government Postgraduate College in Agastyamuni at an estimated cost of ₹19.01 crore.

Additionally, the Housing Department witnessed the foundation stone laying of a project worth ₹10.59 crore and the inauguration of another project worth ₹12.48 crore. The Sugarcane Development and Sugar Industry Department received approval for a project worth ₹11.44 crore, while two projects worth ₹57.15 crore under the Medical Education Department were inaugurated.

The development initiatives launched by Union Home Minister Amit Shah and Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami are expected to benefit several districts of Uttarakhand. The projects aim to improve essential infrastructure and strengthen public services in areas such as electricity, drinking water, roads, education, tourism, healthcare and urban development.

The infrastructure projects planned for Haridwar hold particular significance in view of Kumbh Mela 2027, which is expected to attract a large number of pilgrims and visitors from across the country and abroad.

While the announcement of these projects marks an important step towards infrastructure development, their timely and quality execution will remain crucial. The real success of these initiatives will ultimately depend on how effectively the benefits reach ordinary citizens across the state.

Container Truck Overturns on Car in Dehradun, Killing Four; Six-Year-Old Boy Survives

Three Members of the Same Family Among the Dead; Family Was Travelling to Visit Pregnant Relative When Tragedy Struck

DEHRADUN, UTTARAKHAND: A horrific road accident at Mohabbewala Chowk in Dehradun claimed four lives after a container truck loaded with fertiliser overturned onto a Hyundai i20 car, crushing it completely. Three members of the same family and the car driver died in the tragic incident, while a six-year-old boy sustained injuries but survived.

The heartbreaking accident has left the family devastated. According to reports, the victims were travelling from Saharanpur to Dehradun to visit the pregnant wife of a younger family member. What was supposed to be a joyful family visit turned into an unimaginable tragedy.

According to eyewitnesses, the i20 car was travelling alongside a fertiliser-loaded container truck near Mohabbewala Chowk. As the vehicles crossed the rumble strips, the container suddenly went out of control and overturned directly onto the car.

The massive vehicle completely crushed the car, trapping all its occupants inside. The accident triggered panic and chaos at the spot, as passers-by rushed to help but were unable to rescue the passengers due to the enormous weight of the container.

Soon after receiving information, police and fire brigade teams rushed to the accident site and launched an intensive rescue operation.

A hydra crane was brought in to lift the container off the crushed car. After removing the heavy vehicle, rescue personnel used two cutting machines to cut open the car’s roof and reach the trapped passengers.

After nearly 20 minutes of strenuous efforts, the rescue team managed to pull out six-year-old Maher Kapoor alive. The child had sustained minor injuries.

His safe rescue initially raised hopes that the other occupants might also survive. However, four other passengers were pulled out in critical condition and rushed to Coronation Hospital in two ambulances, where doctors declared all four dead.

Three Members of One Family Among the Deceased

The deceased have been identified as:

– Mishresh Kapoor (38)

– Nisha Anand Kapoor (38), wife of Mishresh Kapoor

– Kiran Kapoor (63), mother of Mishresh Kapoor

All three were residents of Gokul Dham Colony, Saharanpur.

The fourth victim was identified as Neeraj, the car driver, also a resident of Saharanpur.

Six-year-old Maher Kapoor, son of Mishresh Kapoor, survived the accident but was injured.

A second loaded vehicle carrying tyres was travelling immediately behind the container truck. As soon as the container overturned, its driver applied the brakes, narrowly avoiding another collision.

Later, when police attempted to move this vehicle to clear the road and restore traffic movement, it failed to start. It was eventually pushed aside with the help of people present at the scene.

The most heartbreaking aspect of the tragedy is that the family was travelling to share happiness with their relatives over the arrival of a new member into the family.

However, before reaching their destination, the family lost three of its members in a devastating accident.

Six-year-old Maher, who survived the crash, has been left facing an unimaginable loss—the death of his father, mother and grandmother.

The incident has once again raised serious concerns over road safety and the movement of heavy commercial vehicles. The exact circumstances that caused the container to lose control and overturn remain a matter of investigation.

NATION PULSE 24 | Bringing You the News That Matters

DN100 Dabang News and Buland Aawaz 24 Office and Studio Inaugurated in Dehradun

Senior Journalists Extend Their Best Wishes; Editor Kumari Saniya Emphasizes People-Centric and Responsible Journalism

Dehradun, Uttarakhand: A new chapter in the field of digital journalism began in the state capital with the inauguration of the office and studio of DN100 Dabang News and Buland Aawaz 24, a Hindi news channel and web portal. The occasion witnessed the presence of journalists, social workers, and distinguished personalities from various walks of life, who congratulated the editorial teams and expressed their hopes for responsible, impartial, and public-oriented journalism.

The gathering extended its best wishes to Mohammad Ikram Ansari, Editor of DN100 Dabang News, and Miss Saniya, Editor of Buland Aawaz 24. The participants expressed confidence that the two media platforms would highlight issues of public concern and provide an effective platform for the voices of ordinary citizens.

During the inauguration ceremony, speakers emphasized that journalism is an important pillar of democracy. They observed that the responsibility of the media goes beyond reporting daily events. It also involves bringing public grievances to the attention of the administration, highlighting social issues, and ensuring that the concerns of disadvantaged and marginalized communities receive appropriate attention.

The speakers expressed hope that DN100 Dabang News and Buland Aawaz 24 would prioritize public-interest issues, local development, civic problems, and matters affecting ordinary people. They also stressed the importance of factual reporting, journalistic integrity, and accountability in the rapidly expanding digital media landscape.

Addressing the occasion, Miss Saniya, Editor of Buland Aawaz 24, expressed her gratitude to the senior journalists, guests, social workers, and well-wishers who attended the inauguration and encouraged the team.

She said, “Buland Aawaz 24 has been launched with the objective of providing a strong platform for the voice of the public and highlighting issues that directly affect people’s lives. Our endeavour will be to live up to the trust of our viewers and readers. We want to ensure that the concerns of ordinary citizens, disadvantaged communities, and people seeking justice receive due attention.”

She further emphasized that the credibility of journalism depends on truth, impartiality, verification of facts, and a commitment to public welfare.

“Journalism is not merely about presenting news; it is also about fulfilling a social responsibility. We will strive to present news responsibly, raise issues of public interest, and maintain the dignity and ethical standards of the profession. The guidance and cooperation of experienced journalists will be invaluable as we work towards these objectives,” she added.

Miss Saniya thanked everyone who attended the programme and expressed hope that Buland Aawaz 24 would gradually establish itself as a credible platform for public concerns and constructive journalism.

Senior Journalists and Distinguished Personalities Attend

Among those present at the inauguration were Dr. Jamshed Usmani, Editor of the Hindi daily Golden Times; Afroz Khan, Editor of Time Witness; Asif Hussain of I News; Advocate Ashraf Hashmi of Metro Media; Ashraf Jamal of the Hindi daily Markaz-e-Khabar; Bilal Ansari of Kohinoor Bulletin; Ashu Chauhan of India Insider Update; Salman Ali of Two Media House; Mohammad Ikram; Sonia Baliyan; representatives associated with Rising State; Nasir Mansoori; Pankaj; Surendra Dutt Sharma; Ashraf Ansari, Chief Editor of ATV Hindi News; Vishwas Bishroi, State Head of Sahakar Bharati, Uttar Pradesh; Sharad Sharma, Editor of AKJ 24 News; and Asjad Ahmad, along with several other guests.

The attendees congratulated the editorial teams and wished both media organisations success in their future endeavours.

Commitment to Ethical and Public-Oriented Journalism

The participants also highlighted the importance of cooperation among media organisations, healthy professional competition, and maintaining the dignity of journalism. They stressed that news platforms must prioritize verified information, balanced reporting, and responsible coverage of issues affecting society.

With the rapid growth of digital media, news channels and web portals have become important sources of information for the public. However, this growth also brings greater responsibility to ensure accuracy, fairness, and credibility.

The inauguration of the DN100 Dabang News and Buland Aawaz 24 office and studio was viewed as a positive step towards expanding the reach of local journalism and providing a platform for public issues.

The success of these media initiatives will ultimately depend on their ability to earn public trust, uphold journalistic values, and consistently bring important community concerns to the forefront.

Dehradun Celebrates 209th Birth Anniversary of Sir Syed Ahmad Khan

Scholars and distinguished guests pay tribute to the founder of Aligarh Muslim University; event highlights his enduring contribution to modern education and social reform

Dehradun, October 24, 2026: The 209th birth anniversary of Sir Syed Ahmad Khan, the renowned educationist, social reformer and founder of Aligarh Muslim University (AMU), was celebrated at the ONGC Officers Club in Dehradun on October 24, 2026. The event brought together distinguished personalities from the fields of education, academia and industry to commemorate his remarkable contribution to educational advancement and social transformation.

Professor (Dr.) Tabassum Naqvi, Vice-Chancellor of Graphic Era Hill University, Dehradun, attended the programme as the Chief Guest. Professor (Dr.) Md. Irfan Khan, President of Jigyasa University, Dehradun, and Dr. S. Farooq, Director of Himalaya Company, Dehradun, were the Guests of Honour.

The proceedings were conducted by Dr. Riazul Hasan Siddiqui, who served as the master of ceremonies. The programme was organised by Dr. Sajid Jamal, Nafees Ahmad, Iqbal Ahmad and Engineer M. C. Gupta.

Sir Syed Ahmad Khan occupies a distinguished place in the history of modern education in India. He dedicated his life to promoting scientific temper, rational thinking and modern education, particularly among communities that had limited access to contemporary educational opportunities.

Through the Aligarh Movement, Sir Syed encouraged people to embrace modern knowledge and recognise education as a powerful instrument for social progress. His vision eventually led to the establishment of the Muhammadan Anglo-Oriental College in Aligarh in 1875, which later developed into Aligarh Muslim University in 1920.

His legacy continues to inspire generations of students, teachers and social reformers. His emphasis on education, intellectual development and progressive thinking remains relevant in an era when knowledge and educational opportunities are essential for social and national development.

The celebration in Dehradun provided an opportunity to remember Sir Syed’s ideals and reflect on the importance of carrying forward his educational mission. The participation of eminent personalities from academic and professional backgrounds added significance to the occasion.

The programme concluded with a renewed emphasis on the enduring relevance of Sir Syed Ahmad Khan’s vision of education, enlightenment and social reform.

Drug Abuse, Gambling and Immorality Pose Serious Threat to Society: Shahar Qazi Dehradun 

Mufti Hashim Ahmad Qasmi urges people to follow Islamic teachings and protect society from social evils.

Dehradun: Shahar Qazi Mufti Hashim Ahmad Qasmi expressed concern over the growing influence of social evils such as drug abuse, gambling and immoral conduct, urging people to stay away from these harmful practices. In his address before Friday prayers, he said that such evils not only ruin individual lives but also damage family well-being, the future of children and the moral values of society.

Mufti Qasmi said that drug addiction weakens a person’s ability to think clearly and make sound decisions. It also causes serious financial difficulties, as a significant portion of a person’s earnings may be spent on addiction. This often leads to domestic disputes, financial instability and a negative impact on children’s upbringing. In many cases, addiction causes individuals to neglect their responsibilities towards their parents, spouses and children.

He also expressed concern over gambling and betting, saying that these practices encourage people to seek money without honest hard work. As a result, many individuals fall into debt and lose their savings, pushing their families into financial distress. The desire for easy money can lead people towards harmful activities, increasing the risk of crime and family disputes.

The Shahar Qazi also highlighted the importance of moral values, modesty, mutual respect and the dignity of family relationships. He said that when these values begin to weaken, trust within families and a sense of social responsibility are also affected. Islam teaches both men and women to maintain dignity, exercise self-restraint and lead their lives with respect and responsibility towards others.

Referring to Islamic teachings, Mufti Qasmi said that the Holy Quran clearly instructs believers to avoid intoxicants and gambling. Surah Al-Ma’idah, verse 90, identifies intoxicants and gambling among practices that believers are commanded to avoid. Similarly, Surah Al-Isra, verse 32, warns against even approaching adultery. These teachings, he explained, are intended to protect individual character, family life and the wider community.

He stressed that improving society requires more than pointing out the mistakes of others; every individual must also work towards improving their own conduct. Parents should ensure the proper upbringing of their children, teach them the difference between right and wrong, and guide them in the responsible use of mobile phones and the internet.

Mufti Qasmi also urged young people to stay away from bad company and use their time, energy and abilities for education, honest work and constructive activities. He said that honesty, good character and responsible behaviour are essential for building a peaceful and progressive society.

Concluding his address, he appealed to people to protect themselves from drug abuse, gambling and immoral conduct, and to encourage others to do the same through kindness, understanding and good behaviour. He said that the progress of society depends not only on economic development but also on good character, strong families, mutual respect and sound moral values. Following Islamic teachings, he added, can make a meaningful contribution towards building a safer, more peaceful and better society.

AMP’s National Talent Search 2026 Offers Scholarship Opportunities Worth Over ₹10 Crore

National-level examination on December 5; registration closes on November 20. More than 500 meritorious students may receive scholarships of up to 100%.

DEHRADUN: The Association of Muslim Professionals (AMP) is organising the National Talent Search (NTS) 2026 to identify talented students, encourage academic excellence and help young people access better higher education and career opportunities. According to the organisation, scholarships worth more than ₹10 crore are planned this year in collaboration with over 50 training partners.

The national-level examination is scheduled to be held on December 5, 2026, while the last date for registration is November 20, 2026. Students can register through the AMP World website and mobile application.

The initiative aims to support students through scholarships, cash awards, recognition and career guidance, particularly in competitive examinations and professional education.

AMP President Appeals to Students to Participate

During his visit to Uttarakhand, AMP Founder and National President Aamir Idrisi visited Madrasa Dar-e-Arqam and emphasised the importance of education, employment and skill development in social progress.

He appealed to students and young people to participate in the National Talent Search examination, highlighting the importance of providing talented students with appropriate guidance and financial assistance to help them achieve their educational goals.

The programme was attended by several educationists, religious scholars and community representatives, including Farooq Siddiqui, head of AMP and NCT; Mohammad Amin, Registrar of Maulana Azad University, Jodhpur; Maulana Abdul Mannan Qasmi, district president of Jamiat; city president Mufti Ayaz; Master Abdul Sattar; Master Mustaqeem Hasan; Mohammad Ikram; Faizan Ali; Nadeem Ahmad; Suhail Ahmad; Abdul Bari; Maulana Abdul Wajid Mazahiri; Qari Naeem Ahmad; Mohammad Shah Nazar; and Qari Farhan Malik, among others.

Examination to Be Conducted in Three Categories

According to AMP, NTS 2026 will be conducted for students in three academic categories:

– Category 1: Students of Classes 8, 9 and 10.

– Category 2: Students of Classes 11 and 12.

– Category 3: Undergraduate students.

The examination is designed to recognise academic talent and connect deserving students with scholarship opportunities and guidance for further studies and career development.

Scholarships of Up to 100% for More Than 500 Students

AMP has announced plans to offer scholarships of up to 100% to more than 500 students who demonstrate outstanding performance in the examination. In addition, over 4,500 students are expected to have opportunities to receive scholarships ranging from 50% to 75%, subject to the applicable terms and eligibility criteria.

Through its training partners, the scholarship programme may support preparation for a range of competitive examinations, including:

– NEET

– IIT-JEE

– CUET

– CLAT

– UPSC examinations

– State-level recruitment and selection examinations

– CDS and NDA

Scholarship opportunities are also planned for undergraduate and postgraduate courses.

The organisation further stated that cash prizes worth more than ₹5 lakh are proposed for top-performing students across the three categories.

Additional Educational Assistance Through IndiaZakat.com

As part of the initiative, IndiaZakat.com is also expected to provide additional educational scholarships worth more than ₹20 lakh to 500 eligible students.

The additional support is intended to help deserving students continue their education and pursue their academic ambitions. All students participating in the examination will also receive e-certificates.

The scholarship amounts, awards and benefits will be subject to the relevant eligibility requirements and programme conditions.

Target of Two Lakh Students Across India

AMP has set an ambitious target of reaching more than two lakh students from over 20,000 schools and colleges across the country.

The organisation aims to expand awareness of educational opportunities, identify promising students from different regions and help them access financial support and career-oriented training.

By bringing together educational institutions and training partners, the initiative seeks to create a platform where students can demonstrate their abilities and explore opportunities for academic and professional growth.

Important Dates and Registration Details

– Examination date: December 5, 2026

– Last date for registration: November 20, 2026

– Registration platform: AMP World website and mobile application

– Scholarship opportunity: More than ₹10 crore in planned scholarships

– Training partners: More than 50

Interested students are advised to register before the deadline and check the official AMP platform for detailed information regarding eligibility, examination guidelines, scholarship conditions and the registration process.

The National Talent Search 2026 represents an educational initiative aimed at helping talented students pursue their ambitions through financial assistance, competitive examination preparation and career guidance. The programme’s reach and impact will depend on student participation and the implementation of the announced scholarship plans.