Amarnath Yatra 2026 Begins with First Batch of 4,822 Devotees Pilgrims Begin Sacred Journey from Jammu Jammu: One of India's most sacred Hindu pilgrimages, the Amarnath Yatra 2026, officially commenced on Thursday as the first batch of 4,822 devotees departed from the Bhagwati Nagar Yatri Niwas Base Camp in Jammu. Amid chants of "Har Har Mahadev" and "Bam Bam Bhole," thousands of Shiva devotees began their spiritual journey to the revered Amarnath Cave Shrine, located at an altitude of approximately 3,880 meters in the Himalayan mountains. Every year, lakhs of devotees from across India undertake this challenging pilgrimage to seek blessings at the naturally formed ice Shiva Lingam, popularly known as Baba Barfani. 57-Day Pilgrimage to Conclude on August 28 This year's Amarnath Yatra will continue for 57 days and conclude on August 28, coinciding with the auspicious occasion of Shravan Purnima (Raksha Bandhan). Pilgrims can undertake the journey through the traditional Pahalgam route or the shorter but steeper Baltal route, depending on their preference and registration. Massive Security Arrangements in Place Considering the challenging terrain and security concerns, the Central Government, Jammu & Kashmir Administration, Indian Army, CRPF, and Jammu & Kashmir Police have implemented extensive multi-layer security arrangements along the pilgrimage routes. Thousands of security personnel have been deployed, while drones, CCTV surveillance systems, quick response teams, and advanced monitoring equipment are being used to ensure the safety of devotees throughout the pilgrimage. Authorities have also established medical camps, emergency rescue teams, weather monitoring units, and dedicated control rooms to assist pilgrims during the journey. Devotees Advised to Follow Safety Guidelines Officials have advised pilgrims to follow all safety instructions, remain alert to changing weather conditions, and travel only through authorized routes. Pilgrims have also been urged to carry valid registration documents, health certificates, warm clothing, rain protection, and essential medicines, as weather conditions in the Himalayan region can change rapidly. The administration has expressed confidence that the comprehensive arrangements will ensure a safe, smooth, and spiritually fulfilling pilgrimage for all devotees.
UIDAI Introduces Free Aadhaar Email ID Update Facility Official Aadhaar App Users Can Avail the Service New Delhi: The Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) has announced a facility allowing Aadhaar holders to update their registered email ID through the official Aadhaar mobile application. According to the announcement, users can avail of the service without paying the usual update fee during the specified promotional period, making it easier to keep Aadhaar records up to date. The initiative aims to encourage citizens to link and update their email addresses with Aadhaar, improving access to digital services and online authentication. Service Available Only Through the Official Aadhaar Mobile App The free update facility is available only through the official Aadhaar mobile application. Users do not need to visit an Aadhaar Seva Kendra to complete the update. UIDAI has clarified that this benefit is not available through other websites or offline Aadhaar centres. Those choosing to update their details at Aadhaar centres may still be required to pay the applicable service charges. How to Update Your Aadhaar Email ID Updating your email ID is simple and can be completed in just a few minutes. Follow these steps: Open the official Aadhaar Mobile App. Log in using your Aadhaar number. Navigate to the Profile section. Select Update Email ID. Enter your new email address. Submit the request. Verify the update using the OTP sent to your registered mobile number. After successful verification, your new email address will be linked to your Aadhaar profile. Complete the Update Before the Deadline Eligible users are encouraged to take advantage of the facility before the announced deadline. Keeping your Aadhaar email ID updated helps you receive important notifications, access online government services, and improve the security of your digital identity. Citizens are advised to use only the official UIDAI mobile application and avoid sharing Aadhaar details with unauthorized websites or third-party applications.
Hyderabad: The Telangana Police have decided to scale down security arrangements for several political leaders and former police officials following a comprehensive review of the state's security situation. The move comes as authorities believe the Maoist threat in Telangana has significantly declined. As part of the revised security plan, the police have withdrawn bulletproof vehicles provided to around 20 individuals. In addition, the number of security personnel and gunmen assigned to certain protected persons has also been reduced based on the latest threat assessment. In the past, enhanced security measures were provided to political leaders, former police officers, and other VIPs due to the presence of Maoist activity in parts of the state. However, with Telangana now considered largely free from Maoist influence, the police department has decided to reassess and rationalize security deployment. Officials said the decision was taken after evaluating the current law and order situation and individual threat perceptions. Security arrangements will continue to be reviewed periodically, and protection levels may be revised further if the situation changes. The latest decision is expected to affect several political leaders and retired senior police officials who had been receiving enhanced security cover for many years.
New Delhi: In a major step to tackle the severe air pollution witnessed during the winter season, the Delhi government has notified a permanent Winter Pollution Action Plan. The new regulations will come into effect every year from November 1 to February 28, with the aim of improving air quality and protecting public health. As part of the new policy, vehicles without a valid Pollution Under Control (PUC) certificate will not be allowed to purchase fuel at petrol pumps. The government has also announced a ban on demolition and civil construction activities from November 1 to January 31 to reduce dust pollution. To curb emissions during the peak pollution season, the government will implement a 50% Work From Home (WFH) policy for employees in government offices. The measure is expected to reduce traffic congestion and vehicle emissions across the national capital. In another significant move, parking charges across the city will be doubled to discourage the use of private vehicles and encourage public transport during the winter months. Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta said the government is committed to making the national capital cleaner and healthier through long-term pollution control measures. She appealed to citizens to cooperate with the new regulations and actively participate in efforts to improve Delhi's air quality.
Hyderabad: The Forest College and Research Institute (FCRI), Mulugu, Siddipet district, has started the application process for admissions into the B.Sc (Hons) Forestry programme for the 2026â27 academic year. College Dean Praveen announced that applications will be accepted from July 1 to July 25. Students who have qualified in TG EAPCET 2026 and passed Intermediate or its equivalent with BiPC, MBiPC, or MPC streams are eligible to apply for the four-year undergraduate programme. The B.Sc (Hons) Forestry course offers comprehensive academic and practical training in areas such as forest conservation, biodiversity, wildlife management, environmental protection, agroforestry, and natural resource conservation. Students will also receive extensive field training and hands-on practical exposure as part of the curriculum. The Dean stated that graduates of the programme will have promising career opportunities in forest departments, environmental organizations, research institutions, government agencies, and private sector companies. Eligible candidates are advised to submit their applications on or before July 25. For detailed admission guidelines and the application process, students can visit the official FCRI website. They may also contact the institute at 63038 271100, 08454-211939, or 08454-211930 for further information. Also Read:Â AP EAPCET 2026 Results to Be Released on July 2 Instead of Scheduled Date Â
Tollywood has received one of its biggest announcements of the year as  NTR and acclaimed filmmaker Trivikram Srinivas officially reunite for a grand mythological action epic. The prestigious project will be produced under the Haarika & Hassine Creations banner by S. Radha Krishna (Chinababu) and Suryadevara Naga Vamsi. The makers unveiled the project's official announcement along with a striking concept poster carrying the powerful tagline, "The Son of Shiva. The Pride of Parvathi. The Eternal Commander." The poster has gone viral across social media, fueling speculation about the film's storyline and NTR's character. According to industry reports, NTR is expected to portray a powerful divine warrior inspired by Lord Kumaraswamy (Kartikeya/Skanda), the son of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvathi, and the commander of the celestial army. The film is said to blend mythology with high-octane action, rich storytelling, and modern commercial elements, making it one of the most ambitious projects in Trivikram's career. Reports also suggest that the makers are considering the title "God of War" for the film, although an official confirmation is still awaited. At present, NTR is busy shooting for his upcoming film Dragon, directed by Prashanth Neel. Once that project is completed, this mythological spectacle is expected to go on floors. The production house is likely to reveal more details, including the first glimpse, cast, and technical crew, in the coming weeks. Â
Low Water, High Profits: Top Crops Farmers Can Grow in Water-Scarce Areas Across India Water Shortage No Longer Means Low Income: Experts Recommend Climate-Resilient Crops for Better Returns New Delhi: Water scarcity has emerged as one of the biggest challenges facing Indian agriculture. With irregular monsoons, declining groundwater levels, rising temperatures, and increasing climate variability, farmers across several states are being encouraged to shift from water-intensive crops to drought-tolerant and climate-resilient alternatives. Agricultural experts believe that choosing the right crop based on water availability and soil type can help farmers reduce production costs while maintaining stable yields. Traditionally, crops such as paddy and sugarcane require significant amounts of irrigation. However, in areas where water availability is limited, these crops often become economically risky. Experts recommend adopting crops that require less water, mature quickly, and are capable of withstanding dry weather conditions. Why Water-Efficient Crops Are Becoming Essential Climate experts warn that rainfall patterns are becoming increasingly unpredictable. Delayed monsoons and prolonged dry spells have affected sowing in many parts of the country, prompting governments and agricultural departments to encourage farmers to diversify toward water-efficient farming systems. Low-water crops offer several advantages: Lower irrigation costs Reduced dependence on groundwater Better drought tolerance Lower cultivation expenses Stable yields during erratic rainfall Improved soil sustainability Best Crops for Low-Water Farming 1. Millets Millets are among the most drought-resistant crops and are gaining popularity due to increasing consumer demand for healthy foods. Popular varieties include: Pearl Millet (Bajra) Sorghum (Jowar) Finger Millet (Ragi) Foxtail Millet Little Millet Barnyard Millet These crops require substantially less water than rice and perform well under rain-fed conditions. 2. Pulses Pulse crops consume relatively less water while improving soil fertility through nitrogen fixation. Recommended pulses include: Red Gram (Pigeon Pea) Green Gram (Moong) Black Gram (Urad) Chickpea Cowpea Horse Gram Apart from offering good market prices, pulses also enhance soil health for future crops. 3. Oilseed Crops Oilseeds remain a profitable option in dryland farming. Suitable crops include: Groundnut Sesame Sunflower Castor Safflower Many of these crops require moderate irrigation only during critical growth stages. 4. Horticulture Crops With drip irrigation, several fruit crops can provide long-term income. Popular choices include: Pomegranate Guava Custard Apple Indian Gooseberry (Amla) Drumstick (Moringa) Several state governments have also promoted drumstick cultivation in drought-prone regions because of its low water requirement and export potential. 5. Medicinal and Aromatic Crops Farmers seeking diversification may consider: Aloe Vera Ashwagandha Lemongrass Vetiver Senna These crops generally require less irrigation and have growing demand from pharmaceutical and cosmetic industries. Crop Selection Based on Soil Type Sandy Soil Suitable crops include: Groundnut Sesame Watermelon Muskmelon Guava Cashew Black Cotton Soil Recommended crops: Cotton Pigeon Pea Sorghum Chickpea Sunflower Red Soil Suitable options include: Groundnut Millets Pulses Mango Guava Drumstick Choosing crops according to soil characteristics significantly improves productivity and reduces cultivation risks. Modern Water-Saving Techniques Agricultural scientists recommend integrating crop selection with efficient water management. Key practices include: Drip irrigation Mulching Rainwater harvesting Soil moisture conservation Organic matter incorporation Micro-irrigation systems Scientific nutrient management These techniques can substantially reduce water consumption while maintaining crop productivity. Climate Change Driving New Farming Practices Experts note that climate change is making traditional farming methods increasingly difficult. Several states have already started promoting drought-resistant crops, natural farming, and water-efficient cultivation practices to improve farmers' resilience against uncertain rainfall. Experts' Advice Agricultural experts recommend that farmers should not choose crops solely based on market prices. Instead, they should consider: Annual rainfall Groundwater availability Soil type Local climate Market demand Production cost Water availability throughout the season A scientific crop selection strategy can significantly improve profitability while reducing cultivation risks. Conclusion Water scarcity is expected to remain one of the biggest agricultural challenges in the coming years. However, adopting climate-resilient crops, efficient irrigation methods, and scientific farming practices can help farmers sustain productivity and increase profitability. As climate conditions continue to evolve, experts believe that water-efficient agriculture will play a crucial role in ensuring food security and long-term farm sustainability across India. Disclaimer This article is intended for informational purposes only. Crop suitability may vary depending on local climate, soil characteristics, water availability, and market conditions. Farmers are advised to consult their nearest agricultural extension office or qualified agriculture experts before making cultivation decisions.
Iranâs Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei said âthe face-to-face negotiations that will be held in the future will not mean accepting the enemyâs point of view.â WASHINGTON : The US on Thursday (Jun 18) lifted its blockade of Iran, and oil tankers began freely moving through the Strait of Hormuz after months of being unable to use the critical channel, as the tentative agreement to end the war took effect. Meanwhile, Vice President JD Vance announced that he may postpone a trip to Switzerland that had been planned for Friday and included a ceremonial signing of the deal. The visit might have helped start talks on the next, potentially even more critical, round of negotiations between the two sides.
Colombia next face DR Congo on Tuesday in Guadalajara after Uzbekistan play Portugal in Houston. MEXICO CITY: Colombia winger Luis Diaz dazzled at a raucous Azteca Stadium as his side marked their return to the World Cup with a 3-1 Group K win over tournament debutants Uzbekistan on Wednesday (Jun 17). Colombia, who missed the 2022 tournament in Qatar, struggled in the early stages but broke through in the 41st minute when a brilliant ball lifted into the area by Diaz was hooked in on the turn by Daniel Munoz, who had ghosted in behind the defence.
