Archive: April 28, 2026

Suniel Shetty Applauds Char Dham Yatra Arrangements During Rishikesh Visit

Rishikesh, Apr 28 (BNP): Film actor Suniel Shetty, who recently arrived in Rishikesh, praised the arrangements made for the Char Dham Yatra and appreciated the facilities created for pilgrims.

During his visit, the actor expressed satisfaction over the management, cleanliness, and improved infrastructure put in place for devotees undertaking the sacred pilgrimage. He described the overall experience in Rishikesh as memorable and spiritually uplifting.

Shetty also lauded the efforts of the administration and organisers for ensuring smooth travel, better amenities, and a welcoming atmosphere for the large number of pilgrims expected during the yatra season.

The Char Dham Yatra, one of the country’s most significant religious pilgrimages, draws lakhs of devotees annually to the holy shrines of Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath in Uttarakhand.

His remarks come as preparations for this year’s pilgrimage continue on a large scale.

PM Modi’s Sikkim Visit: Boosting Infrastructure and Celebrating Ecological Heritage

Apr 28 (BNP): Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent visit to Sikkim marked a significant push for the state’s development agenda, alongside a strong emphasis on its rich ecological and cultural identity.

Speaking during the closing ceremony of Sikkim’s 50th Year of Statehood celebrations. Known for its serenity and enterprise, the state has seen rapid progress. https://t.co/hFUftLcfk7

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) April 28, 2026

During his visit, the Prime Minister inaugurated and laid the foundation stone for a series of development projects collectively valued at around ₹4,000 crore. These initiatives span key sectors including infrastructure, connectivity, tourism, and public services, and are expected to accelerate Sikkim’s economic growth while improving accessibility in the Himalayan region. Officials noted that the projects are designed to strengthen both urban and rural development, with a focus on long-term sustainability in a sensitive ecological zone.

In addition to the development announcements, PM Modi visited the Orchidarium in Gangtok, where he witnessed Sikkim’s extraordinary floral diversity. The Orchidarium, known for its extensive collection of native orchids and rare plant species, showcases the state’s reputation as one of India’s leading biodiversity hotspots. The Prime Minister expressed appreciation for Sikkim’s efforts in preserving its ecological heritage and promoting sustainable tourism rooted in environmental conservation.

The visit highlighted a dual focus—modern infrastructure development alongside environmental preservation. Sikkim, often recognized for its organic farming practices and green policies, continues to position itself as a model for eco-sensitive development in the northeastern region.

Overall, the Prime Minister’s engagements in Sikkim underscored the Centre’s commitment to enhancing regional development while preserving the natural and cultural wealth of the Himalayas.

Nearly 11,000 Odisha Consumers Get Zero Power Bills Under Rooftop Solar Scheme

India and Gulf Air Connectivity Set to Improve as Airspace Conditions Stabilise: MEA

New Delhi, Apr 28 (BNP): Flight operations between India and Gulf countries are expected to further normalise as airspace conditions across West Asia continue to improve, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said on Monday.

The MEA informed that airlines such as Air India and IndiGo are planning to resume services between India and Qatar in a phased manner. Qatar Airways has already restarted limited flights as Qatar’s airspace has partially reopened.

Key Developments in the Region

• Around 105 flights are expected between the UAE and India amid limited operations from Dubai and Abu Dhabi
• Services continue from Saudi Arabia and Oman to India
• Kuwait airspace has reopened; Jazeera Airways and Kuwait Airways have resumed limited India-bound flights
• Bahrain operations remain active through Gulf Air
• Iraq and Israel are operating limited regional services enabling onward travel to India

Iran’s airspace remains partially restricted, with only cargo and charter operations permitted. Indian nationals have been advised to avoid travel to Iran and, if required, leave via land routes with embassy assistance.

Indian Nationals Assisted

Indian missions continue to actively support citizens in the region. So far, 2,445 Indian nationals have been evacuated from Iran through land borders.

Since February 28, nearly 12.96 lakh passengers have travelled from the Gulf region to India.

Indian embassies and consulates remain operational round the clock, providing helpline support, coordinating with local authorities, and issuing regular travel advisories to ensure the safety of Indian nationals abroad.

Tragedy in Mumbai: Four Family Members Dead After Dinner; Police Probe ‘Biryani-Watermelon’ Link

Mumbai,Apr28 (BNP): In a tragic incident, four members of a family in South Mumbai’s Pydhonie area died after reportedly falling ill with vomiting and diarrhea following a meal at home. Police have registered an accidental death report and launched an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident.

The deceased have been identified as Abdullah Dokadia (40), his wife Nasreen (35), and their daughters Aisha (16) and Zainab (13). The family was residing in the Mughal Building at Ghati Galli in the Pydhonie locality.

According to preliminary information, the family allegedly consumed biryani followed by watermelon before their health suddenly deteriorated. They reportedly developed symptoms of vomiting and diarrhea soon afterwards.

Police officials said food samples have been collected from the residence and sent for forensic examination to determine whether food contamination or any other factor caused the deaths. The bodies have also been sent for post-mortem examination.

The incident has sent shockwaves through the local community, while authorities await medical and forensic reports to establish the exact cause of death.