Safai Sathis: Dharamsala’s Unsung Heroes of Waste Management Amid Growing Challenges
In the early hours of each morning, as the city of Dharamsala still slumbers, a dedicated group of workers known as ‘Safai Sathis’ begins their day by cleaning streets, collecting waste, and ensuring the town remains spotless. Employed by the Mumbai-based Vishal Protection Force on behalf of the Dharamsala Municipal Corporation (DMC), these 250 individuals have become the backbone of the city’s sanitation efforts, especially as plastic waste management becomes an increasingly urgent issue across
Himachal Pradesh’s Path to Becoming a Green Energy State: Strategies, Initiatives, and Milestones
IntroductionIn a pioneering step towards sustainable development, Himachal Pradesh has committed to becoming a Green Energy State by March 31, 2026. This goal aligns with India’s broader climate targets and positions Himachal as a leader in renewable energy transitions. Through strategic initiatives, the state aims to reduce its reliance on conventional energy, foster eco-friendly growth, and contribute significantly to India's climate commitments. This article delves into the strategies, projects, and impact of Himachal Pradesh’s ambitious
Maad (माड़) Festival in Himachal Pradesh: Celebrating Livestock and Tradition
Himachal Pradesh, known throughout India as Devbhoomi or the "Land of the Gods," holds a rich tapestry of cultural practices, beliefs, and festivals, each celebrating the divine and the earthly. Among these is the Maad Festival, a unique celebration where communities honor their livestock—particularly cows, bulls, and calves—highlighting the age-old bond between humans and their animals. This festival serves as a reminder of the essential role livestock plays in traditional farming and in the life
Bijli Mahadev Temple: The Mystical Shrine Where Lightning Strikes Every 12 Years
Have you ever heard of a temple struck by lightning every twelve years—on purpose? In the heart of Kullu Valley, at an altitude of 2,460 meters in the quaint village of Kashwari, lies the Bijli Mahadev Temple, a unique shrine that has captured the curiosity of thousands. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, this temple doesn’t just draw devotees but also those fascinated by its incredible natural phenomenon: a powerful lightning strike that shatters the Shiva Lingam
Himachal Pradesh’s First Digital Library: A Modern Hub for Learning and Innovation
What’s in the News? Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu inaugurated Himachal Pradesh’s first digital library in Bilaspur. This digital library, containing approximately 2,500 books, is accessible offline and provides NCERT and CBSE materials for students in Classes I to XII. The library also offers resources for college courses, competitive exams, and various educational materials, making it a valuable hub for students at different academic levels. Additionally, Chief Minister Sukhu inaugurated a new Vigilance and Anti-Corruption Bureau building in Bilaspur, constructed at a
Mrikula Devi Temple, Lahaul: A Testament to Faith and Art in Himachal’s ‘Dev Bhoomi’
Himachal Pradesh, fondly known as Dev Bhoomi or "Land of the Gods," is celebrated for its ancient temples and deep-rooted spirituality. Among its most cherished shrines stands the Mrikula Devi Temple in Udaipur, Lahaul Valley. Dedicated to Goddess Kali in her fierce Mahishasura Mardini form, this centuries-old wooden temple is renowned not only for its religious significance but also for its exquisite wood carvings and unique architectural style. Drawing devotees and history enthusiasts from around the world, the temple embodies the divine