Jaipur, Sep.11,2025: is an ancient hand block-printing technique from Akola village in Chittorgarh, Rajasthan. The word Dabu comes from the Hindi verb dabana (to press), reflecting the process of pressing clay-based mixtures onto fabric-

Rajasthan Folk Culture Revival in Spotlight

Rajasthan Folk Culture Revival begins this article as we explore how the culture of this vibrant state is not merely surviving—but being revitalised. From recent archaeological finds to government initiatives, the momentum to preserve, promote, and project Rajasthan’s living traditions is increasing. This revival links the past to the present, offering both locals and the world a deeper connection to heritage.

Archaeological Discoveries and Heritage Preservation

One driver of Rajasthan Folk Culture Revival is new archaeological evidence reaffirming the deep historical roots of the land.

• In Deeg district, ASI has unearthed a 3,500-year-old settlement including a palaeochannel possibly linked with the legendary Saraswati river.
• This discovery of ancient riverbeds and evidence of settlements from Kushan, Magadha, and Sunga periods helps anchor modern Rajasthan’s cultural identity in an unbroken past.
• The government is focusing on preserving temples and religious sites as centres of culture. Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma has emphasized that these are not mere structures of faith but are the social and cultural heart of many communities. These efforts are not just about the stones; they are about stories, practices, artists, and living traditions that connect people to their roots—crucial for Rajasthan Folk Culture Revival.

Folk Arts, Dance & Music Leading the Revival

In the revival of Rajasthan’s folk culture, living arts—dance, music, oral tradition—play central roles.

Ghoomar, Gair, Chari & Other Dances

• Ghoomar: Flowing skirts, graceful twirls, vibrant colors; traditionally performed by women during festivals, weddings, auspicious occasions. It’s deeply embedded in Marwari, Dhundhar, and other regions.
• Gair Dance: A more vigorous folk dance performed by both men and women in the Marwar and Mewar regions. Emphasis on rhythmic footwork, sticks, swords, and community participation.
• Chari Dance: Women balance pots (Chari) on their head, sometimes with lamps or fire, while performing graceful steps. It symbolizes daily life (carrying water) merged with ritual, aesthetics, devotion.

Music & Oral Traditions

• Traditions like those of Manganiyars and Langas—musicians who have for generations narrated stories of valor, love, and myth through songs and ragas—are integral to Rajasthan Folk Culture Revival.
• Folk singers often perform at fairs and deserts, keeping alive heritage language, dialects, and mythic epics.

These dance and music forms are not static relics; they are evolving with revival initiatives, festivals, tourism, and local engagement.

Crafts, Jewelry & Traditional Skills Making a Strong Comeback

Rajasthan’s crafts are among its most arresting expressions of cultural identity—and they are now part of the Rajasthan Folk Culture Revival.

• Thewa Art: Originating in Pratapgarh, this technique of fusing 23-carat gold sheet over molten glass, with intricate designs, is once endangered but has seen resurgence.
• Block Printing, Bandhej, Bagru, Sanganeri Prints: These textile arts continue to grow in demand. Natural dyes, traditional motifs, and artisan workshop tours are making them more visible.

Akola Dabu Print- A Living Heritage of Rajasthan

Akola Dabu Print is an ancient hand block-printing technique from Akola village in Chittorgarh, Rajasthan. The word Dabu comes from the Hindi verb dabana (to press), reflecting the process of pressing clay-based mixtures onto fabric. This craft uses a unique mud-resist technique where natural materials—clay, lime, wheat flour, and gum—are combined to create a paste that resists dye. The result is fabric decorated with earthy, timeless patterns, making it both sustainable and deeply rooted in Indian tradition.

The Process of Akola Dabu Print

1. Preparing the Mixture
   A special paste called dabu is made by mixing wheat flour, lime, gum (from the babul tree), and black clay.
2. Designing the Blocks
   Skilled artisans carve intricate motifs onto wooden blocks, which are then used to print the designs.
3. Applying the Mud Paste
   The wooden blocks are dipped into the prepared clay paste and carefully pressed onto the fabric to create patterned impressions.
4. Dyeing the Fabric
   Once the mud dries and sets firmly, the fabric is dyed, most often in indigo (neel), giving it a striking contrast.
5. Washing Off the Mud
   After dyeing, the cloth is dried and washed, removing the clay resist. The areas covered with mud remain color-free, revealing unique natural patterns.
6. The Final Product
   The finished fabric displays stunning motifs—neutral spaces against deep shades—creating an authentic symbol of India’s artistic heritage.

Thanks to Mr. Vipin Kumar Chhipa, Owner Shreenath Hand Print Akola for Provide information.

History and Significance

• Origins
  The roots of this craft lie in Rajasthan’s Akola village, where it has been practiced for centuries, passed down through generations of artisan families.
• Revival
  With the rise of machine printing, this traditional art form almost disappeared. However, in the 21st century, the growing global interest in handmade and sustainable crafts sparked its revival. Brands like Avartan and artisan cooperatives have played a key role in bringing Akola Dabu back into the spotlight.
• Sustainability
  The process is entirely eco-friendly, relying on natural dyes and organic materials. This makes Akola Dabu not only a cultural treasure but also a sustainable textile practice for the modern world.

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• Jewelry & Gem Work: Royal Rajput styles, Thewa pieces, gemstones, and locally made ornaments are being revived both as wearable art and as artifacts.
• Pottery, Leather Work, Appliqué: In the western desert districts and rural areas especially, these crafts are being supported through tourism and governmental programs. Western Rajasthan is emerging as a hub for folk art & tourism. These crafts are feeding into heritage tourism, local livelihood, and pride. The Rajasthan Folk Culture Revival gives artisans new markets, recognition, and motivation to keep these skills alive.

Festivals, Religious Sites & Cultural Tourism

Festivals and religious heritage play a dual role: they preserve ritual and belief, and they act as anchors for cultural tourism.

• Rajasthan’s government has committed to preserving historical and religious sites. Under various schemes, circuits of devotional tourism and infrastructure development are in planning or execution.
• Fairs and festivals—Pushkar, Desert Festival, Sharad Purnima events like the Rajasthan International Folk Festival (RIFF) in Mehrangarh Fort—bring together local and international artists. These create platforms for Rajasthan Folk Culture Revival to reach wider audiences.
• Temples not only draw pilgrims but also become venues for music, dance, oral recitations, and communal gathering. Chief Minister Sharma has emphasized temples’ roles as centers for social, cultural, spiritual consciousness.

Tourism policies tied with heritage conservation amplify revival: local communities benefit, artisans get patronage, architecture is restored, and tradition stays relevant.

Gender, Rural Life & Identity

The Rajasthan Folk Culture Revival is not merely about Dances or Monuments—it’s about people, their identities, gender roles, rural livelihoods, and intergenerational transmission.

• Rural life continues to be the primary vessel for traditional knowledge—be it folk stories, dialects, performing art or craft skills.
• Women especially carry many forms of expression—dance (Ghoomar, Chari), craft (textile work, ornamentation), food traditions and rituals. Their involvement is essential.
• Language and dialect preservation: Marwari, Mewari, Dhundhary, Harauti etc. Each carries folk tales, proverbs, songs unique to region.
• Identity and pride: As younger generations connect with their roots via festivals, tourism, social media, they are more willing to learn and continue traditions.

Challenges and the Road Ahead for Rajasthan Folk Culture Revival

While there is great momentum, there are also challenges that need addressing.

What’s needed

• Policies that balance tourism with conservation.
• Support for artisan cooperatives, craft schools, local museums.
• Integration of folk arts in education (schools, cultural centres).
• Using digital media and technology (recordings, VR, social media) to archive and share.
• Sustainable environmental management to ensure rural ecologies that support traditional livelihoods.

Why Rajasthan Folk Culture Revival Matters

Rajasthan Folk Culture Revival is more than a trend—it’s a lifeline connecting past, present and future. When a dance is performed, a craft is made, or a temple is restored, the stories, values, and identity of entire communities are preserved.

This revival also has very tangible benefits: economic opportunity, tourism, community cohesion, cultural pride, and a sense of rootedness in a rapidly changing world.

Whether in the golden sands of Jaisalmer, the ornate palaces of Jaipur, or in village courtyards, we see the colors of Rajasthan—its festivals, its music, its artisans—being re-brought into focus. And that makes the Rajasthan Folk Culture Revival not just important, but indispensable.

Jaipur, Sep.08,2025:Globally, the eclipse was observable across Asia, Australia, Africa, and Europe, while the Americas missed it due to the timing-

2025 Blood Moon Lunar Eclipse India

2025 blood moon lunar eclipse India marked one of the most breathtaking celestial shows of the year, visible across India and many parts of the world. On the night of September 7–8, 2025, the Moon transformed into an eerie copper-red orb, captivating onlookers for an extended duration. This article dives deep into the phenomenon, weaving together science, timing, cultural resonance, and public fascination.

When and How Long- The 82-Minute Totality

This year’s total lunar eclipse stood out for its remarkable 82-minute totality—making it one of the longest eclipses in recent memory. In India, the sequence unfolded as follows:

• Penumbral eclipse begins: ~ 8:58 PM IST
• Partial phase begins: ~ 9:57 PM IST
• Totality begins: ~ 11:01 PM IST
• Totality ends: ~ 12:23 AM IST
• Eclipse concludes: ~ 2:25 AM IST
• Such an unusually long duration offered a luxurious window for skywatchers to soak in the enchanting “Blood Moon.”

Visibility- India and Beyond

India was among the best regions to witness the full eclipse from start to finish.

Globally, the eclipse was observable across Asia, Australia, Africa, and Europe, while the Americas missed it due to the timing. The widespread visibility made this event a shared experience for billions.

Science Behind the Blood Moon

The “Blood Moon” appearance results from Rayleigh scattering—where Earth’s atmosphere filters and bends sunlight, scattering blue wavelengths and letting red light reach the Moon.

The 2025 eclipse was especially profound because the Moon passed centrally through Earth’s umbra and near apogee, extending the totality to over 82 minutes.

Cultural Traditions and Spiritual Significance

In India, lunar eclipses—or Chandra Grahan—carry deep spiritual meaning. During this event:

• Many observed rituals such as chanting, meditating, or staying indoors.
• Pregnant women were given culturally rooted dos and don’ts to follow.

The eclipse thus resonated not just as an astronomical spectacle but as a moment of cultural reflection and significance.

Public Engagement and Observation Sites

Cities and observatories burst into activity:

• In Dehradun, skywatchers, families, and students gathered at local science centers to witness the eclipse alongside astronomers.
• Across India, photos flooded social media, with viewers cheerfully calling it “better than Netflix”.

These communal gatherings spotlighted the event as both educational and emotionally stirring.

Photography and Viewing Tips

Lucky skywatchers captured stunning eclipse scenes thanks to clear skies and accessible optics:

• The event was safe to view with the naked eye.
• Smartphones with night or astrophotography modes, paired with tripods, helped capture vivid Blood Moon shots.

Why This Eclipse Was Remarkable

What made the 2025 Blood Moon stand out:

1. Unusually long totality—82 minutes of uninterrupted celestial drama.
2. Rare full visibility across India, unlike many eclipses.
3. Strong cultural resonance, paired with scientific wonder.
4. A unified global experience, connecting observers across continents.

— Truly a perfect blend of science, culture, and spectacle.

Lasting Legacy of the 2025 Blood Moon Lunar Eclipse India

The 2025 blood moon lunar eclipse India will be etched in memory—an awe-inspiring cosmic dance visible to millions, enriched by cultural layers and scientific insights. As the Moon returned to its usual luminous self, communities carried forward the shared awe and appreciation for our universe’s rhythms.

New Delhi,Sep.05,2025:India flood crisis 2025 is unfolding as a severe test of resilience—from the capital’s overflowing rivers to dam breaches in Rajasthan and catastrophic damage in Punjab. Across multiple states, this flood crisis has upended lives, forced rescues, and stretched emergency response systems to breaking point.

Delhi-NCR Flood Havoc

Delhi-NCR is reeling under torrential monsoon deluge. The Yamuna River surged above the danger mark, flooding low-lying areas, inundating roads, and halting cremations at Nigambodh Ghat and Geeta Colony due to rising waters.

• The river’s level stood at approximately 207.48 m—among the highest levels recorded, triggering multiple alerts
• Relief camps near Mayur Vihar Phase-1 were themselves submerged, displacing over 8,000 people into tents, with dozens more in permanent shelters.
• Nearby Ghaziabad and Noida saw evacuations—55 families rescued from Ghaziabad flood-hit villages.

Noida’s Plight: Sector-135 & Sector-151

Noida’s low-lying sectors were among the worst affected:

• Sector-135, especially farmland and dwellings, saw 3 to 4 feet of water. Over 600 people displaced were relocated to the Nagli Wajidpur community centre, receiving food, medical aid, and shelter.
• The district activated 20 flood posts across Sadar, Dadri, and Jewar tehsils. Relief centres, community kitchens, medical tents, and animal shelters were rapidly deployed.
• Farmers, like Ramashankar and Babban, worry about lost crops, mounting debts, and uncertainty in a devastated planting season.

Ajmer’s Boraj Pond Breach

Rajasthan’s Ajmer faced a dramatic calamity:

• Late Thursday night, around 11:15 pm, the embankment of Boraj Pond collapsed, unleashing floodwaters that submerged nearly 1,000 homes.
• Families resorted to rooftop refuge as water rushed through six colonies, including Swastik Nagar, Bharat Nagar, and Jyoti Nagar.
• Prior warnings had led to preemptive evacuation of approximately 80 homes, a crucial step that likely prevented any casualties.
• Rescue teams—including SDRF, Civil Defence, municipal teams—conducted nighttime rescues, placed mud pumps, and set up temporary shelters.
• Ajmer District Collector confirmed no fatalities and said the situation is now under control.

Punjab’s Rising Toll & Impact

Punjab has perhaps suffered the gravest losses:

• The flood death toll rose to 43, with over 3.55 lakh people across 1,655 villages affected. Around 1.71 lakh hectares of farmland destroyed.
• In the face of this national calamity, no new rain alerts have been issued for the next five days—offering a crucial window for rescue and recovery operations.

National Response and Way Forward

The scale of India flood crisis 2025 demands a coordinated response:

• Multi-state coordination: Delhi-NCR, Rajasthan, and Punjab are aligning efforts, pooling resources, and managing shelters, evacuations, and relief distribution.
• Early warnings and evacuations: Preemptive evacuations—like in Ajmer’s Boraj pond case—have been lifesaving.
• Infrastructure improvements: Flood posts, embankment reinforcements, emergency relief centers, and animal rescue operations have activated quickly.
• Climate resilience: This flood crisis underscores the urgent need for long-term planning—better drainage, floodproof housing, disaster drills, and improved dam monitoring.

The Urgency of Preparedness

India flood crisis 2025 has rocked the nation—from capital flooding to dam breaches and farmland submerged. But within the tragedy lies a message: preparedness saves lives.

The damage is extensive, but with prompt rescue efforts, inter-state coordination, and community resilience, future catastrophes can be mitigated. It’s time to invest in infrastructure, forecasting, public awareness – and above all, hope—because disasters test humanity’s resolve. Let’s emerge stronger.

Jammu, Aug.26,2025:CM Omar Abdullah declared the situation “quite serious”, convening emergency meetings in Srinagar and directing high alert and efficient relief efforts

The Grim Reality

Jammu Flood Alert unfolds as relentless torrents of rain pound the Jammu and Kashmir region. Rivers overflow, landslides strike, roads vanish under torrents—and a dire humanitarian emergency is in motion.

Record-Breaking Rainfall in Jammu

• Jammu city witnessed a staggering 190.4 mm of rain in 24 hours, marking the second-highest August single-day deluge in nearly a century.
• This deluge followed a cloudburst in Doda’s Bhalesa region (Charu Nallah area), causing flash floods and claiming the lives of at least three people.

Rivers on the Rampage, Danger Levels Reached

• Rivers like Tawi, Ravi, Chenab, Basantar, and Ujh have surged above or near danger marks, inundating low-lying areas and triggering widespread alarms.
• The Tawi river in Udhampur breached the 20 ft flood line and neared evacuation thresholds in Jammu, signaling imminent danger.
• The Madhopur barrage has exceeded 1 lakh cusecs, amplifying flood risks downstream.

Bridges, Highways, and Yatras Suspended

• A major bridge near Logate Mor on NH-44 (Jammu-Pathankot Highway) collapsed due to swelling of the Sahar Khad river.
• Landslides and shooting stones have blocked key routes including the Jammu–Srinagar National Highway, impacting evacuation and relief operations.
• The Vaishno Devi Yatra has been temporarily suspended, and authorities issued a red alert to safeguard pilgrims and residents amid extreme weather.

CM Omar Abdullah’s Emergency Orders

• CM Omar Abdullah declared the situation “quite serious”, convening emergency meetings in Srinagar and directing high alert and efficient relief efforts.
• He announced plans to fly personally to Jammu to oversee operations, allocated additional emergency funds to Deputy Commissioners, and prioritized vulnerable groups for aid.
• Efforts include restoring connectivity, dewatering urban areas, and activating control rooms for coordination among SDRF, police, army, and civil authorities.

Cross-Border Warnings: Tawi, Sutlej, Ravi & Chenab

• India issued a flood warning to Pakistan via diplomatic channels, bypassing the suspended Indus Waters Treaty, highlighting potential overflow in rivers like the Tawi (later Sutlej), Ravi, and Chenab.
• In response, Pakistan prepared evacuations across eastern Punjab, anticipating rising floodwaters from dams and swollen rivers.

Evacuations, Alerts & Emergency Aid

• Residents in low-lying and flood-prone zones are urged to avoid riverbanks, streams, and unstable terrain, with warnings issued across the division.
• Evacuations are underway, and emergency helplines and district control rooms are operational for swift response.

Safety Tips and Resources

• Stay informed via IMD updates, local news channels, and official emergency sources.
• Avoid floodwaters—do not attempt crossing or entering submerged roads.
• If in an evacuation zone, store essentials in a waterproof bag, including medication and documentation.
• Reach out via emergency helplines or local authorities if stranded or in distress.
• Seek verified updates on travel advisories and rescue routes.

Confronting Climate Stress in J&K

The Jammu Flood Alert isn’t just another natural disaster—it’s a wake-up call to escalating climate threats. Torrential rain, overflowing rivers, and collapsing infrastructure are stark reminders of planetary fragility. Effective governance, disaster preparedness, and community awareness remain our strongest defenses.

Jaipur, Aug.13,2025: The event’s theme—Universal Apostolic Preferences—guided student performances, inviting them to embody Jesuit values like solidarity, social justice, and spiritual reflection

Theatre & Art Unite: Setting the Stage

Theatre & Art Unite framed the heart of a day where students from St. Xavier’s School—Nevta, Jaipur—took center stage, blending dramatic expression with musical harmony. On August 12, 2025, the campus reverberated with creativity as students from Classes 6 through 12 performed with passion and purpose.

Purpose & Powerful Theme: Universal Apostolic Preferences

The event’s theme—Universal Apostolic Preferences—guided student performances, inviting them to embody Jesuit values like solidarity, social justice, and spiritual reflection. Through both drama and song, participants explored and expressed what these values mean in today’s world, illustrating how Theatre & Art Unite not only hearts but values.

Drama & Music: Houses in Action

English Play: A Theatrical Masterclass

In the English Play segment, Classes 9–12 brought stories to life under the discerning eyes of judges: Fr. Edward Oliviera (renowned principal and educationist), Mr. Biju M.P., and Ms. Teeja Jose. Their verdicts praised the students’ compelling stage presence, imaginative direction, and thematic resonance. Fr. Edward’s live feedback, rich with theatrical guidance, elevated confidence and performance quality.

Singing Competition: Soulful Melodies

Meanwhile, Classes 6–8 lit up the stage in the Singing Competition, judged by Fr. Edward Oliviera, Mr. Ashish Joseph (Indian Idol fame), and the school’s music mentor, Mr. Colin Jobard. The voices rang clear, embodying the event’s spiritual and social message. Judges applauded the emotional depth and musical articulation, proving again why Theatre & Art Unite as powerful educational tools.

Winners & Highlights

• Drama Competition:
  • Blue House: 1st place
  • Red House: 2nd place
  • Green House: 3rd place
• Singing Competition:
  • Blue House: 1st place
  • Yellow House: 2nd place
  • Green House: 3rd place

Principal Rev. Fr. Sangeeth Raj, SJ, announced the winners with warmth, acknowledging every participant, and reemphasizing how Theatre & Art Unite to nurture holistic education.

Inspirational Takeaways & Jesuit Values

• Creative Confidence: Students showcased remarkable self-assurance—theatre and art unite minds and courage.
• Value-Driven Expression: The Universal Apostolic Preferences theme turned performances into acts of conscience and commitment.
• Educational Enrichment: Through art, students gained insight into empathy, teamwork, and expressive nuance.
• Mentorship Matters: Insights from Fr. Edward and Mr. Joseph sparked artistic growth and confidence.

Why Theatre & Art Matter in Education

Theatre & Art Unite not merely students, but ideals and experiences—making education emotionally resonant. This event underscores how incorporating performing arts into schooling fosters creativity, ethical awareness, and emotional literacy.

As St. Xavier’s School looks to future competitions and cultural expressions, the success of this Inter-House English Play and Singing Competition proves that Theatre & Art Unite in elevating education beyond textbooks.

New Delhi, Aug.11,2025: The seminar’s keynote, delivered by Professor Ashutosh Kumar (Head, DCEE, DU), set the tone with Reimagining National Parks—a call to evolve from mere visitors to

From Sanctuary to Sensibility

The seminar’s keynote, delivered by Professor Ashutosh Kumar (Head, DCEE, DU), set the tone with Reimagining National Parks—a call to evolve from mere visitors to “ecological storytellers.” He urged students to amplify their voices for sustainable policy, recognizing the deep ties between urban life and wilderness vitality.

History Meets Reality

Mr. Rajiv Bhartari (I.F.S. retired, Consultant in Protected Area Management) offered a sweeping overview—from the park’s founding as Hailey National Park in 1936 to the pivotal Wildlife (Protection) Act of 1972. He also highlighted a modern dilemma: overtourism, which strains ecosystems while offering economic gain.

Ecological Imbalance

Freelance naturalist Imran Khan, owner of Rangers Lodge homestay, revealed how past choices—like planting teak and eucalyptus—have weakened biodiversity. He championed the restoration of native Sal forests to rebuild ecological resilience.

Tourism’s Carbon Toll

Mr. Ram Pratap, Director of the Indian School of Naturalist, framed overtourism as part of a global problem: tourism contributes ~8% of global carbon emissions. He urged sustainable park operations, local community involvement, and tougher regulatory frameworks to preserve India’s conservation reputation.

Individual Action Matters

Swami Prem Parivartan, popularly known as Peepal Baba and Founder of @givemetreestrust, invoked the power of one—individuals plant and preserve. He fused ecology with spirituality, reinforcing how personal responsibility deepens environmental connection.

A Transformative Encounter

Faisal Rizvi, Director at Etroupers Consultants, shared how an unplanned tiger encounter transformed his view of the jungle—not merely a spectacle but a complex, interconnected world demanding respect and defense.

Institutional Impact and Community Drive

The event galvanized students and faculty, strengthening the university’s mission to cultivate ecological consciousness through collaboration. Voices from varied domains—history, science, personal story—united to show that real conservation hinges on collective wisdom and passion.

Vote of Thanks & Collective Vision

Organizers delivered heartfelt thanks to all speakers for their invaluable insights, to the University of Delhi students whose engagement brought energy, and to sponsors Manu Maharani Resort, Aahana Resort, and Digital9 whose support made the event possible. Their partnership underscores that safeguarding our natural heritage is a shared endeavor—one that this seminar inspires us to continue.

Uttarakhand, Aug.05,2025: At approximately 1:45 PM IST the cloudburst over the upper Khīr Ganga basin caused a sudden flash flood

Uttarkashi Cloudburst Flash Flood Strikes Dharali

Uttarkashi cloudburst flash flood unfolded on the morning of Tuesday, August 5, 2025, when an intense cloudburst over the Khīr Ganga catchment triggered a catastrophic surge in water and debris, drowning Dharali village near Harsil in minutes.

Eyewitness Horror & Timeline of Events

• At approximately 1:45 PM IST the cloudburst over the upper Khīr Ganga basin caused a sudden flash flood.
• In just 30–34 seconds, torrents of water mixed with rocks and mud swept through Dharali, washing away hotels, homes, shops, and market stalls lining the riverbank.
• Villagers captured shocking footage of people screaming and fleeing as infrastructures collapsed into the rushing gully.

Casualties and Missing Persons

• Local officials confirmed 4 people died in the flash flood so far.
• Approximately 50 individuals remain missing, many feared trapped under debris or washed downstream in gutted buildings and lodges.

Scale of Destruction in Dharali

• The floodcourse devastated entire rows of hotels, homestays, and market shops. 20–25 accommodation units are reportedly destroyed.
• The entire marketplace of Dharali has been nearly wiped out. Several homes and commercial structures carved into the hillside were swept away.

Rescue and Relief Operations Underway

• The district administration, SDRF, NDRF, ITBP, and the Indian Army swiftly mobilized. Within 10 minutes, a team of roughly 150 soldiers reached the site and began rescue efforts, evacuating 15–20 people to safety while searching for survivors.
• Specialized gear and search‑and‑rescue teams continue ground operations under adverse terrain and ongoing heavy rainfall conditions.

Government & Political Response

• Uttarkashi DM Prashant Arya confirmed fatalities and reported widespread property loss, with communications and electricity disrupted.
• Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami posted on X (formerly Twitter):

“The news of heavy damage caused by a cloudburst in Dharali (Uttarkashi) region is extremely sad… SDRF, NDRF, district administration, and other related teams are engaged in relief and rescue operations on a war footing.”.

• Union Home Minister Amit Shah spoke with the CM and assured the deployment of central assistance; he directed ITBP and NDRF teams to move immediately to the scene.

Natural Causes & Climate Risk in Uttarakhand

• A cloudburst is an intense, short-lived rainfall event that can deposit over 100 mm of rain within an hour, especially common in orographic mountainous zones like Uttarakhand.
• Experts caution that the region’s increasing vulnerability to such flash floods is linked to climate change, unplanned development along riverbanks, and shrinking forest cover.

Lessons & Precautions for Future

• Frequent early‑warning systems and real‑time rainfall monitoring could help prevent tragedies in high-risk zones.
• Restricting development immediately adjacent to fast‑flowing mountain streams and mandating flood‑resilient building codes may reduce future loss.
• Enhancing community-based disaster preparedness and conducting evacuation drills for remote villages like Dharali are essential.

The Uttarkashi cloudburst flash flood has wrought tragic loss: four lives lost, dozens missing, and entire sections of Dharali erased within seconds. Rescue operations are ongoing amid challenging terrain and shifting weather. This calamity is a vivid reminder of Uttarakhand’s fragile alpine ecosystems and the urgent need for enhanced disaster resilience.

Jaipur, Aug.01,2025: Under the banner of Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam 2.0 Tree Plantation, the initiative merges environmental responsibility with a heartfelt tribute to mothers—

Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam 2.0 Tree Plantation Drive Begins Strong in Jaipur

Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam 2.0 Tree Plantation campaign grew roots nationally after its launch on World Environment Day, targeting 10 crore tree plantings across India by September 2025.
In Jaipur, the ECO Club of DAV Centenary Public School led a vibrant drive on 31 July 2025, aligned with this national mission and guided by Principal Shri A.K. Sharma.

Why Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam 2.0 Tree Plantation Matters Nationally

Under the banner of Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam 2.0 Tree Plantation, the initiative merges environmental responsibility with a heartfelt tribute to mothers—and aligns with national goals:

• 10 crore trees to be planted by schools and communities by September 2025.
• Schools integrate the campaign via the Eco Clubs for Mission LiFE portal and microsite, allowing students to upload selfies with their saplings and receive e-certificates.
• The aim: nurture emotional, social & environmental values among students while boosting green cover across India.

Powerful Moments at DAV Centenary Public School, Jaipur

On 31 July, DAV Centenary Public School, Vaishali Nagar, Jaipur, organized an enthusiastic tree plantation drive in sync with the national campaign.

• Students brought over 150 saplings—flowering, fruit-bearing, shade and medicinal varieties.
• Grand trees like Khejari, Karanj, Neem, Siris, Ashoka, Mango, Jamun, Amla were planted around the sports field; medicinal & ornamental species lined corridors and Shraddhanand Park.
• Principal Shri A.K. Sharma inaugurated the initiative by planting an Ashoka sapling, setting a motivational tone for the event.

Symbolism & Participation: Honouring Mothers Through Trees

In this Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam 2.0 Tree Plantation drive, every student tagged their sapling with a message:
“Yeh ped meri maa ke naam” and a personal note promoting environmental care.
This symbolic gesture connects maternal tribute with ecological stewardship—honouring mothers while nurturing Mother Earth.

Local Impact: Eco Club & Student Engagement

The DAV ECO Club orchestrated the event as part of the school’s Environment Week, featuring themed morning assemblies and documentary screenings for Classes VI to X.
Students pledged to care for their planted saplings—cementing responsibility and follow-through in protecting their green legacies.

Broader Eco‑Movement in Rajasthan & India

Rajasthan state’s Mission Hariyalo Rajasthan aims to plant 50 crore trees over five years, dovetailing with the national initiative. This year alone, 10 crore saplings will be planted, including 2.5 crore on Hariyali Teej.
Together, these drives signal a powerful green movement across communities, schools, and government agencies.

After the Saplings: Care, Monitoring & Sustainability

To ensure long-term impact, the campaign integrates:

• Use of the Microsite & Eco Clubs portal, where students upload photos and receive e-certificates, while data helps track progress at grassroots level.
• Eco Clubs across over 14.7 lakh schools upload and share their activities through dashboards in multiple languages; this strengthens accountability and participation continuity.

Why This Drives Hope & Change

The Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam 2.0 Tree Plantation drive at DAV Jaipur exemplifies how localized, symbolic acts—planting a tree for one’s mother—can integrate with national environmental missions.
Through unity of sentiment (honouring mothers) and action (community plantation), the campaign fosters a generation of green ambassadors committed to sustainable living and climate resilience.

China, July29,2025:Rain began on July 23, intensifying through to July 28. The mountainous northern districts of Beijing, especially Miyun

Beijing flooding deaths, The immediate toll

In a single week of torrential storms, Beijing flooding deaths reached at least 30 confirmed fatalities, including 28 in Miyun district and 2 in Yanqing.

Neighboring Hebei province saw additional fatalities due to landslides—raising the regional toll to 38.

When and where the rains struck hardest

Rain began on July 23, intensifying through to July 28. The mountainous northern districts of Beijing, especially Miyun, were worst hit, recording 543 mm of rain—nearly the city’s annual total—in just days.

In Huairou, 95.3 mm fell in one hour.

Rescue efforts & political direction

President Xi Jinping issued urgent orders for “all‑out” search and rescue efforts, focusing on both Beijing and surrounding provinces like Hebei, Jilin, and Shandong – where heavy casualties and damage were reported. Premier Li Qiang called for escalated emergency response for Miyun in particular.

Infrastructure damage & widespread outages

More than 130 villages lost power, roads were washed away, communications lines failed, and over 30 road segments were damaged. In Taishitun town, uprooted trees, flooded roads, and submerged vehicles created scenes of mayhem.

Evacuations and regional impact

Authorities evacuated over 80,000 residents across Beijing, with about 17,000 in Miyun alone. Public transport was suspended, tourist sites closed, and local governments advised residents to stay indoors until the alerts are lifted.

Landslides in Hebei added at least 4 additional deaths and left 8 people missing.

Historical floods compared

The July 2025 floods rival the 2012 Beijing flood, which killed 79 people, destroyed homes, and inflicted ~$1.6 billion in damage. That event saw 460 mm of rain in Fangshan within 20 hours, setting records. The current event, while shorter, reached nearly annual rainfall in just a few days.

What caused such extreme rainfall?

Meteorologists cite topography trapping warm, humid air over northern Beijing, amplified by a northbound typhoon’s influence. This dynamic produced intense precipitation—up to 80–90% of annual totals in only days. The effect turned Beijing into a literal rain “trap”. Scientists warn such extreme weather is part of a broader climate trend.

China, July22,2025:The China Hydropower Dam project, as envisioned, will surpass even the famed Three Gorges Dam.

China’s Dam Ambitions

China Hydropower Dam plans are again raising eyebrows globally. With the groundbreaking ceremony recently led by Chinese Premier Li Qiang, China has begun construction on the world’s largest hydropower dam in Tibet’s Nyingchi region — near the sensitive India-China border.

Named the Motuo Hydropower Station, this $167 billion infrastructure project could reshape South Asia’s water dynamics and cause downstream disruptions affecting millions in India and Bangladesh.

World’s Largest Hydropower Project

The China Hydropower Dam project, as envisioned, will surpass even the famed Three Gorges Dam — currently the world’s biggest in terms of energy output. Once operational, it’s expected to generate three times more electricity than the Three Gorges.

Located on the Yarlung Tsangpo river (known as the Brahmaputra in India), the project includes five cascade-style hydropower stations, tapping the river’s steep gradient for maximum output.

This ambitious dam was first hinted at in China’s 14th Five-Year Plan, and President Xi Jinping’s 2021 visit to Tibet solidified the political will behind it.

Quick Facts:

• Cost: 1.2 trillion yuan (~$167 billion)
• Power Output: Estimated to be triple of the Three Gorges Dam
• Location: Nyingchi Prefecture, near Arunachal Pradesh border
• Completion Target: Unknown, but early construction has begun

Environmental Concerns Around the Dam

While the China Hydropower Dam promises clean energy and reduced carbon reliance, environmentalists are sounding alarms.

Environmental Risks:

• Displacement of Tibetan communities in biodiversity-rich zones
• Flooding of deep valleys, some of the world’s most ecologically diverse
• Increased seismic risk — the region lies in a high-risk earthquake zone

Even though Chinese authorities claim the project prioritizes “ecological harmony,” satellite images and media reports point to disregard for local consultation, with protesters detained in previous hydropower disputes.

Strategic Risks to India and Bangladesh

The China Hydropower Dam is not just an environmental issue — it’s a geopolitical flashpoint.

The Yarlung Tsangpo flows from Tibet into Arunachal Pradesh (India) as the Siang, then becomes the Brahmaputra in Assam, and finally enters Bangladesh as the Jamuna.

India’s Concerns:

• China could control water flows, affecting agriculture and drinking water
• Potential use of the dam as a “water bomb” — sudden water releases could devastate lower areas
• Security threats in Arunachal Pradesh, a region China claims as “South Tibet”

In a recent interview, Arunachal CM Pema Khandu said:

“If China suddenly releases water, the Siang region could be annihilated. It’s an existential threat.”

India’s Ministry of External Affairs in January 2025 expressed formal concerns and demanded transparency and consultation, but Beijing maintains that it has the right to exploit Tibetan rivers.

Local and International Reactions

India:

• Arunachal Pradesh politicians warned of strategic manipulation of river flow
• Congress Party criticized the Modi government’s silence
• Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma downplayed fears, claiming 70% of Brahmaputra’s flow originates within India

Bangladesh:

• Sent a formal letter to China requesting project details
• Worried about freshwater availability and flooding during monsoons

Experts Speak:

A Lowy Institute report warned in 2020 that:

“Control over Tibetan rivers gives China significant leverage over India’s economy.”

Hydro-politics is now emerging as a new battleground in already tense India-China relations.

What Lies Ahead? India’s Counter Strategy

India isn’t sitting idle. The Indian government has initiated its own hydropower project on the Siang River to regulate downstream flow and safeguard against China’s water policies.

India’s Dam Strategy:

• Proposed multi-billion rupee dam in Arunachal Pradesh
• Objective: Flood prevention, energy generation, and water security
• Part of a broader effort to establish riparian resilience

Environmental groups in India, however, caution against reactive dam-building, urging for diplomatic water-sharing agreements instead.

A Turning Point in River Diplomacy

The China Hydropower Dam project is a landmark engineering feat — but also a litmus test for regional cooperation in transboundary river governance.

With India and Bangladesh raising concerns, the world watches closely as water becomes an increasingly strategic resource. What was once a tool for development may soon evolve into a geopolitical weapon if transparent, equitable frameworks aren’t put in place.

For now, the Motuo Hydropower Station symbolizes both China’s clean energy ambition and a potential fault line in South Asia’s fragile river diploma