Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah expressed hope on Saturday that Israel and Iran would soon cease their attacks and resolve their issues through dialogue, news agency PTI reported. "We can only hope and pray that the war stops. The situation is bad. This should not have happened," Abdullah told reporters in central Kashmir’s Ganderbal, his assembly constituency. Questioning the basis for Israel’s attack on Iran, he remarked, "A few days ago, the US intelligence in-charge said before the Senate and Congress that Iran is not closer to getting a nuclear weapon. So, if America felt that a few days ago, then why did Israel attack Iran?" "It is obvious that there is some politics behind it, but we hope that this cycle stops sooner and the issues are resolved through dialogue," he added, according to PTI. Meanwhile, Abdullah visited several areas in his assembly constituency, stating it was his duty as the local MLA. "The people of Ganderbal have sent me to represent them and serve them, and I will try my best to meet their expectations. So, since I became the MLA, we have hastened the development progress here. Today, I inaugurated one project, a marriage hall, and laid the foundation stone of a bridge, which was an old demand," he said. The leader further noted that when he sought votes from the people of Ganderbal, he had assured them he would serve them as an MLA and address their concerns. "I had told them I will not remain away for five years after taking their votes. Despite having the responsibility of the whole of J&K, I have never forgotten that the people of Ganderbal did me a huge favour by electing me from here, and that is why I did not leave this seat," he said, as reported by PTI. Abdullah won the assembly polls from two seats: Ganderbal and Budgam. He subsequently vacated the Budgam seat after being sworn in as Chief Minister. When questioned about the upcoming annual Amarnath Yatra, Abdullah expressed optimism that yatris would arrive in large numbers to visit the Amarnath cave shrine. "We hope they return safely as well. The responsibility of their security lies with the LG and Raj Bhavan, and I hope all the measures will be taken for their safety and security. The rest of the responsibilities -- be it medical or infrastructure --we have fulfilled those," he added. (With inputs from PTI)
21 June,2025 06:54 PM IST | Srinagar | mid-day online correspondentDefence Minister Rajnath Singh was briefed by top Army officials on Saturday regarding the prevailing security situation in Jammu and Kashmir, with a particular focus on border areas, anti-terrorist operations, and the upcoming Amarnath Yatra. According to news agency PTI, Chief of the Army Staff General Upendra Dwivedi, General Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Northern Command Lt Gen Pratik Sharma, and other senior officers, including commanding officers of all units, attended the meeting at the Udhampur-based Northern Command headquarters. Defence Minister Singh had arrived at the Udhampur headquarters of the Northern Command on a two-day visit on Friday. On Saturday morning, he led the International Day of Yoga celebrations for the Armed Forces, performing various asanas and breathing exercises with 2,500 soldiers. After the yoga session, the senior Army brass provided the Defence Minister with an update on the current security situation in the Union Territory, officials confirmed, as reported by PTI. The briefing primarily focused on security in the border areas and the hinterland, particularly anti-terrorist operations in forested regions. It also covered the detailed security arrangements made for the annual 38-day Amarnath Yatra, scheduled to commence in the South Kashmir Himalayas on July 3. The Army is an integral part of the multi-tier security arrangements put in place for the smooth conduct of the Yatra. This includes extensive combing operations in the forests surrounding the two main tracks – the traditional 48-kilometre Pahalgam route in Anantnag district and the 14-kilometre shorter but steeper Baltal route in Ganderbal district – as well as along the Jammu–Srinagar National Highway, PTI reported. Meanwhile, people across the country were performing yoga asanas on International Yoga Day. Prime Minister Narendra Modi stated on Saturday that the entire world is currently experiencing various tensions, with many regions facing unrest and instability, and that yoga offers a path to peace and fosters unity. Addressing participants at the 11th International Yoga Day event, PM Modi remarked that the day signifies the beginning of this ancient practice for humanity, where inner peace can become a global policy. "Unfortunately, today the whole world is going through some kind of tension. In many regions, unrest and instability are increasing. In such a situation, yoga gives us the direction of peace. Yoga is the pause button that humanity needs to breathe, to balance, to become whole again," he said. "My request to the world — let this Yoga Day mark the beginning of Yoga for Humanity 2.0, where inner peace becomes global policy," the Prime Minister urged. He further commented that the core essence of yoga is "to unite", and it is truly heartening to observe how yoga has successfully brought the world together. Emphasising that yoga is for everyone, regardless of boundaries, background, age, or ability, PM Modi stated that this year's International Yoga Day theme — "Yoga for One Earth, One Health" — reflects a profound truth: the health of every entity on Earth is interconnected. Expressing pride in seeing differently-abled individuals reading yogic texts in Braille, PM Modi also noted that scientists are practising yoga even in space. (With inputs from PTI)
21 June,2025 06:53 PM IST | Jammu | mid-day online correspondentOver 50,000 people have been affected after a flash flood in the Subarnarekha River caused water to enter their villages in Odisha’s Balasore district on Saturday. This followed heavy rainfall in the neighbouring state of Jharkhand, an official stated. As many as 17 gram panchayat areas across the three blocks of Bhograi, Baliapal, Basta, and a portion of the Jaleswar Notified Area Council (NAC) were impacted by the sudden flood, the official confirmed. The administration has promptly geared up for extensive relief and rescue operations, reported news agency PTI. Following the flash floods, residents in low-lying and flood-prone areas received advice to remain alert and be prepared to relocate to nearby cyclone shelters if the situation deteriorates, he said. According to PTI, Balasore District Collector Suryawanshi Mayur Vikas instructed the block development officers (BDOs) and tehsildars to maintain readiness to evacuate people if necessary. Officials were also requested to continuously monitor the situation and provide assistance to those affected by the flash flood. Furthermore, the BDOs were asked to undertake the distribution of dry food items among the impacted population, the official added. The Chief District Medical Officer (CDMO) received directives to ensure adequate stocks of essential medicines and to have all necessary healthcare arrangements in place. PTI reported that the Superintending Engineer (Irrigation) was asked to conduct a thorough check of all gates of Chandil Dam and maintain round-the-clock monitoring of water levels, implementing all necessary precautionary measures. Meanwhile, the Civil Supplies Officer (CSO) was instructed to confirm the readiness and adequacy of food and essential supplies. All staff members’ leave has been cancelled until further notice, and a strict directive has been issued, prohibiting government officials from leaving headquarters without prior permission, the official confirmed. Sources from the District Emergency Office indicated that although the water level of the Subarnarekha at Rajghat was receding, it still remained at 11.9 metres, against the danger mark of 10.36 metres. “We hope the water level will recede further as there has not been much rainfall in the upper catchment of the river in Jharkhand,” the official remarked, adding that there is no threat of any medium or major flood in the Subarnarekha River system. The district administration has also actively made people aware of the situation. It clarified that the flash flood in some parts of Balasore district was caused by a sudden release of water from Chandil Dam in Jharkhand. (With inputs from PTI)
21 June,2025 06:52 PM IST | Balasore | mid-day online correspondentIn a significant breakthrough, the Amritsar Rural Police successfully dismantled a cross-border drug smuggling operation on Saturday, apprehending two key operatives, Lovepreet Singh and Balwinder Singh, as reported by news agency ANI. "In a major intelligence-led operation, Amritsar Rural Police busts a cross-border drug smuggling racket and apprehends two key operatives: Lovepreet Singh @ Love and Balwinder Singh @ Bobby," posted the DGP Punjab Police on X. The operation, spearheaded by the Punjab Police, underscores the state’s unwavering commitment to combating narco-terrorism. This police action was founded on credible intelligence, which led to the arrest of the two suspects and the seizure of a substantial quantity of heroin and firearms. "Preliminary investigation reveals the accused were in direct contact with a Pakistan-based smuggler via WhatsApp, indicating a strong cross-border nexus," the post further detailed. Investigations have confirmed that the accused maintained direct contact with a Pakistan-based smuggler via WhatsApp, clearly demonstrating a robust cross-border connection. The police recovered 6.15 kg of heroin, a PX5 pistol (.30 bore) with four live cartridges, and £10,000 in drug money. "Recovery: 6.15 kg heroin, 1 PX5 pistol (.30 bore) with 4 live cartridges, £10,000 drug money. An FIR has been registered at PS Lopoke. Further investigations are ongoing to trace forward and backward linkages," the post added. "The Punjab police remains resolute in its fight against narco-terrorism. We are committed to protecting our youth and society from the grip of drugs and the menace of illegal arms," it concluded. As the crackdown continues, this operation marks a critical victory in the state’s battle against cross-border smuggling, ANI reported. Earlier in May, the Amritsar Police had also arrested three individuals with 10.248 kilograms of heroin, exposing an international narco-trafficking network operating from Pakistan. These arrests were made as part of the Punjab Government’s ongoing anti-drug drive, which has been rigorously targeting narco syndicates across the state. Acting on a specific tip-off, the police conducted a raid and apprehended three persons: Akashdeep Singh, Akashdeep alias Mota, and Sandeep Singh, as stated by the Punjab Police. The accused were found in possession of a substantial heroin consignment weighing 10.248 kilograms. Following this development, the police registered an FIR against all three accused under the NDPS Act at Islamabad Police Station, and further investigation was initiated. Police officials affirmed that the Punjab Police is working tirelessly to eliminate drug mafias and disrupt the dual narco routes operating through the border. (With inputs from ANI)
21 June,2025 06:52 PM IST | Amritsar | mid-day online correspondentThe Indian Navy on Saturday joined the nation in celebrating the 11th International Day of Yoga (IDY) with great spirit and dedication. According to an official statement issued by the Defence PRO, this year’s flagship event, Yoga Sangam, took place at the scenic RK Beach in Visakhapatnam and was graced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The event saw enthusiastic participation from nearly 10,000 naval personnel, creating a grand atmosphere of unity and wellness, it said. "The presence of Indian Naval warships at anchorage enhanced the picturesque setting made the session a visual delight. Their involvement also contributed towards setting a Guinness World Record for the largest single gathering for a yoga session," the official statement said. The statement further said that Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi, Chief of the Naval Staff, along with Shashi Tripathi, President of Navy Welfare & Wellness Association (NWWA), led the naval contingent. The presence of Indian Naval warships at anchorage enhanced the picturesque setting, making the session a visual delight. Their involvement also contributed towards setting a Guinness World Record for the largest single gathering for a yoga session. Marking a decade of yoga celebrations, the Indian Navy observed the 11th IDY under the theme “Yoga for One Earth, One Health”. The Navy held yoga sessions at all its stations – on land, at sea, and even at foreign ports. Around 50,000 participants, including naval personnel, defence civilians, and their families, took part in these sessions, it said. "Indian Naval warships deployed in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR) also hosted yoga sessions at sea and at international ports such as Mauritius, Oman, Malaysia, and Indonesia, spreading the message of health and harmony globally. Trainees from friendly foreign navies joined these events with great enthusiasm," the statement said. It further said that NWWA played a vital role in leading yoga activities for the families of naval personnel and defence civilians, encouraging the adoption of yoga as a daily habit. Over the past 10 days, the Indian Navy conducted various yoga-related programmes, reflecting the collective spirit and dedication towards the vision of “One Earth, One Health”, the statement said.
21 June,2025 04:57 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentBihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar announced on Saturday that his government has decided to increase pensions for senior citizens, widows, and people with disability by Rs 700 per month. Beneficiaries will now receive an increased pension of Rs 1,100 from July. "I am happy to inform you that under the Social Security Pension Scheme, all the elderly, disabled and widowed women will now get a pension of Rs 1,100, instead of Rs 400 every month. All the beneficiaries will get a pension at the increased rate from July," Kumar posted on X. He added that the pension amount will be sent to the accounts of all beneficiaries on the 10th day of every month. "This decision of the government will help beneficiaries and will ensure they spend a dignified life, which is the top priority of the government," Social Welfare Department Secretary Bandana Preyashi told PTI in Patna. The Chief Minister stated that the total number of beneficiaries for the pension scheme in the state stands at 1.96 crore. "The elderly people are an important part of society, and their dignified living is our top priority. The state government will continue to make efforts in this direction," the chief minister affirmed. This decision holds significant importance as the state is slated to go to Assembly polls in a few months. This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever
21 June,2025 04:41 PM IST | Patna | PTIPolice announced on Saturday the arrest of two men who allegedly sexually assaulted a 10-year-old boy in a village in Muzaffarnagar , recorded the act, and then shared the video online. According to the lodged complaint, the men allegedly took the boy to a place on Friday, claiming they were taking him for a bath in a tube well. The accused allegedly sexually assaulted the boy while his friend, recorded the act. They are then alleged to have circulated the video on social media, police confirmed. Bhopa Station House Officer (SHO) Om Prakash Singh told reporters on Saturday that a case has been registered against the accused and his friend under relevant sections of the BNS and the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act. Both individuals have been taken into custody. This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever
21 June,2025 03:55 PM IST | Muzaffarnagar | PTIA 29-year-old man was arrested on Saturday for allegedly misbehaving with a woman on a state-run bus in this central district. The accused, Savad, from Vadakara in Kozhikode, was taken into custody in Tamil Nadu on Friday, police in East said. This isn't Savad's first offence; he was previously arrested and jailed two years ago for allegedly flashing and misbehaving with a woman passenger on a bus in Ernakulam district. The latest incident occurred on June 14 on a Malappuram-bound Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) bus. According to the woman's complaint, Savad touched her with sexual intent and behaved inappropriately. When she protested, he got off the bus midway and escaped. The victim reported the incident to the East Police, who launched a search for him. His arrest was recorded under various sections of the BNS, including Section 75 (sexual harassment). Two years ago, the All Kerala Men's Association controversially gave Savad a reception when he was released on bail in the earlier case, which drew widespread criticism. This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever
21 June,2025 03:27 PM IST | Thrissur | PTIBJP MP Naveen Jindal led the 11th International Day of Yoga 2025 celebrations on the holy land of Kurukshetra on Friday, where over one lakh people gathered in an atmosphere filled with energy and enthusiasm. Speaking to reporters, BJP MP Jindal said, "Today, on the holy land of Kurukshetra, we have celebrated International Yoga Day and spread the message of yoga. Today, one lakh people participated in this program. You can see how much enthusiasm there is in the entire atmosphere here. Everyone enjoyed yoga." Earlier today, Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini, Governor Bandaru Dattatreya, and others performed yoga in Kurukshetra under the guidance of Yoga Guru Swami Ramdev during the yoga day. Saini said that the state government has introduced a five-minute break in all offices to reduce stress and boost energy at work. Speaking to the reporters, Nayab Singh Saini said, "To reduce stress, we have announced a five-minute break in every office so that we can work again with new energy and strength... Everyone will implement this in the private sector as well." He also said that efforts are being made to make Haryana free from drug abuse through cyclothons, marathons, and incentives for villages that stay drug-free. "Whether it is a cyclothon or a marathon against drug abuse, we have made many panchayats drug-free. We also encourage sarpanches to make their villages and wards drug-free and give them incentives. Today, on the occasion of Yoga Day, we said 'Yoga Yukt aur Nasha Mukt' Haryana," Saini said. Yoga Guru Ramdev said that yoga has become a mass movement and should be a part of everyone's daily life. He said Prime Minister Modi's vision of a developed India by 2047 is based on the foundation of yoga and urged people to practice yoga every day for at least 10 to 20 minutes. "Yog has become a mass movement. It has become a mass movement. Prime Minister's vision of making India a developed country by 2047, its basis, its foundation, is yoga. I would appeal to everyone to pledge to do yoga on June 21 and every day for at least 10-20 minutes. Yoga should become a way of our life," Ramdev Baba said. The 11th International Day of Yoga saw widespread participation across states. The theme for this year is "Yoga for One Earth, One Health," which echoes India's vision of global wellness and reflects the integrated vision of well-being. It emphasises the interconnectedness of human and planetary health, drawing from the Indian ethos of "Sarve Santu Niramaya" (May all be free from disease). This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever.
21 June,2025 03:11 PM IST | Kurukshetra | ANIIn view of International Yoga Day 2025, the District Administration of Reasi on Saturday came out with a special yoga session held at the iconic Chenab Rail Bridge, the world's highest railway bridge. The event, held at the world's highest railway bridge, saw participation from officers of the civil administration, Northern Railway, CRPF, residents, and yoga enthusiasts. Amidst the serene landscape of the Chenab valley, the yoga session was held where participants performed various asanas. Earlier, on June 9, Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the world's highest railway arch bridge over the Chenab River. The Chenab Bridge, which is said to be an architectural marvel, is 359 metres above the river. It's a 1,315-metre-long steel arch bridge designed to withstand seismic and wind loads. The bridge will have a significant impact on connectivity between Jammu and Srinagar and will surly make connectivity a lot easier. As reported by ANI, the 11th International Day of Yoga saw widespread participation across states. The theme for this year is "Yoga for One Earth, One Health," which echoes India's vision of global wellness and reflects the integrated vision of well-being. It emphasises the interconnectedness of human and planetary health, drawing from the Indian ethos of "Sarve Santu Niramaya" (May all be free from disease). Meanwhile, Prime Minister Narendra Modi took part in the 11th International Day of Yoga celebrations, where he hailed yoga as a gift "beyond age" that transcends all boundaries and unites humanity in "health and harmony." Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Visakhapatnam, urged the international community to adopt "inner peace" as a "global policy" and make yoga a shared global obligation. Speaking during the 11th International Day of Yoga celebrations in Visakhapatnam, the Prime Minister urged countries to embrace yoga not only as a personal or cultural practice, but as a unifying force for humanity. The event was hosted along the picturesque Visakhapatnam coastline, with Indian Navy ships stationed nearby, adding to the grandeur of the occasion. PM Modi was accompanied by lakhs of yoga enthusiasts, locals, and dignitaries from Andhra Pradesh. The Prime Minister also reflected on India's 2014 proposal at the United Nations to declare June 21 as International Yoga Day and how, in record time, over 170 countries supported the move. The Prime Minister also said that “yoga has since grown into a worldwide practice that symbolises peace, balance, and cooperation. This year's celebrations saw participation from lakhs of people across states.” (With ANI Inputs)
21 June,2025 12:39 PM IST | Raesi | mid-day online correspondentMillions of devotees will come together for the sacred Pandharpur Wari in 2025, a centuries-old pilgrimage in honour of Lord Vitthal, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu. The spiritual journey begins with two grand palkhi processions: Sant Tukaram Maharaj’s from Dehu on June 18 and Sant Dnyaneshwar Maharaj’s from Alandi on June 19. Over the course of 20 days, pilgrims will travel on foot, united by devotion, before reaching the holy town of Pandharpur on Ashadhi Ekadashi, July 6, to seek blessings in an atmosphere of profound faith, joy, and cultural tradition. Warkari. Representational Pic What is Pandharpur Wari? Pandharpur Wari is a centuries-old devotional pilgrimage where Warkaris (devotees) walk together for several days, singing abhangas and hymns in praise of Lord Vitthal. The procession is led by two main palkhis, Sant Tukaram Maharaj’s Palkhi from Dehu and Sant Dnyaneshwar Maharaj’s Palkhi from Alandi, creating an atmosphere of deep faith and spiritual celebration. The Wari stretches across nearly 20 days, covering a distance of over 250 kilometres. Along the way, the palkhis pause at different towns and villages, where devotees come together for community gatherings, spiritual discourses, and vibrant cultural programs. Sant Tukaram Maharaj Palkhi 2025 Schedule The journey begins in Dehu, the birthplace of Sant Tukaram, and winds its way toward Pandharpur, with thousands of devotees accompanying the palkhi that carries his sacred padukas (Sacred footwear). Departure: June 18, 2025 (Wednesday) Arrival in Pandharpur: July 5, 2025 (Saturday) Ashadhi Ekadashi: July 6, 2025 (Sunday) Day-Wise Route June 18: Dehu – Departure ceremony June 19: Akurdi – Procession through Pimpri-Chinchwad June 20: Pune (Nanapeth) – Cultural welcome June 21: Hadapsar – Community events June 22: Loni Kalbhor – Devotional gatherings June 23: Yavat – Rising participation June 24: Varvand – Traditional prayers June 25: Baramati – Devotional music June 26: Indapur – Discourses and performances June 27: Akluj – Celebrated Ringan ritual June 28: Malshiras – Pilgrims' meals and rest June 29: Natepute – Bhajans and kirtans June 30: Velapur – Medical aid and camps July 1: Pandharpur Road – Final stretch begins July 2: Bhandishegaon – Devotional activities July 3: Wakhri – Last major halt July 4: Rest and preparation July 5: Arrival in Pandharpur July 6: Ashadhi Ekadashi – Darshan at Vitthal-Rukmini Mandir Spiritual Importance The Tukaram Maharaj Palkhi honours the teachings of Sant Tukaram, a saint-poet who championed bhakti, equality, and humility. His abhangas inspired generations to follow a path of devotion free from caste and social divisions. Sant Dnyaneshwar Maharaj Palkhi 2025 Schedule The procession starts in Alandi, where Sant Dnyaneshwar took sanjeevan samadhi, and travels across the state to join the larger Wari movement. Departure: June 19, 2025 (Thursday) Arrival in Pandharpur: July 5, 2025 (Saturday) Ashadhi Ekadashi: July 6, 2025 (Sunday) Day-Wise Route June 19: Alandi – Ritualistic send-off June 20: Pune (Bhavanipeth) – Overnight halt June 21: Pune – Community events June 22: Saswad – Devotional march June 23: Saswad – Bhajans and service June 24: Jejuri – Spiritual discourses June 25: Walhe – Local interactions June 26: Lonand – Major halt June 27: Taradgaon – Niravsamadhi rituals June 28: Phaltan – Local Wari traditions June 29: Barad – Rest day June 30: Natepute – Chanting and kirtans July 1: Malshiras – Refreshment camps July 2: Velapur – Devotional gatherings July 3: Bhandishegaon – Final halt July 4: Wakhari – Last stop before Pandharpur July 5: Arrival in Pandharpur July 6: Ashadhi Ekadashi – Darshan at Vitthal-Rukmini Mandir Spiritual Importance The Sant Dnyaneshwar Maharaj Palkhi honours the legacy of the 13th-century saint and philosopher who composed the Dnyaneshwari, a profound Marathi commentary on the Bhagavad Gita. Carrying his sacred padukas, the pilgrimage embodies the quest for knowledge, devotion, and spiritual enlightenment. A timeless journey of faith and devotion Pandharpur Wari is far more than a pilgrimage; it’s a vibrant, moving festival of devotion, equality, and togetherness. Drawing lakhs of devotees across all social strata, the Wari unites them in a shared journey of chanting, humility, service, and an enduring commitment to divine love.
21 June,2025 12:20 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentADVERTISEMENT
