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Dar Ovais

Dar Ovais is the Dharamshala-based correspondent in the Himachal Pradesh bureau of Hindustan Times. He covers politics, tourism, Tibetan affairs and environmental issues.

Articles by Dar Ovais

Tea trouble simmers after hot summer, dry spell in Himachal

According to data from the Tea Board India at Palampur, Himachal produced only 8,67,216 kg of tea by October this year, a sharp decline from the 11,07,576 kg produced during the same period in 2023

Hopes of recovery after a scorching summer were dashed after the rain deficit during the monsoon and recent dry spell. (File)

Chandigarh

Updated on Dec 08, 2024 08:36 AM IST

ByDar Ovais, Dharamshala

2 years of sukhu govt: Congress ready with list of feats, BJP to corner govt over its ‘failures’

The political faceoff has intensified in recent days. While the BJP accuses the Congress of failing to fulfil its promises made to the public, the Congress has retaliated, alleging that the BJP attempted to create political instability and spread misinformation to mislead the public.

Deputy chief minister Mukesh Agnihotri while addressing the media on Wednesday in Shimla said, “As we complete two years in office, the BJP has started making noise. This is simply the frustration of losing power. They cannot accept that a Congress government is in place in Himachal Pradesh, so they are focusing on non-issues.” (HT File)

Chandigarh

Updated on Dec 06, 2024 06:56 AM IST

ByDar Ovais, Dharamshala

High-level panel submits report on Pong dam displacement, Himachal to seek Centre’s assistance

The committee’s recommendations include the allotment of land to 6,736 displaced families and the establishment of a grievance redressal cell to address concerns related to infrastructure and facilities

Even after five decades have passed cases of 6,736 families awaiting rehabilitation are still pending. (File)

Chandigarh

Updated on Dec 04, 2024 10:11 PM IST

ByDar Ovais, Dharamshala

Warmer-than-usual winter season on cards for Himachal

Himachal Pradesh faces a dry winter, with IMD predicting above-normal temperatures and below-normal rainfall, following significant recent deficits.

The state’s post-monsoon seasonal rainfall has recorded a 98% deficit. (Deepak Sansta/HT)

Chandigarh

Updated on Dec 04, 2024 10:09 PM IST

ByDar Ovais, Dharamshala

Ropeway connecting Himachal’s Baglamukhi temple to highway begins ops

A new 800m ropeway connecting Mata Baglamukhi Temple and Pandoh aims to boost tourism, offering scenic views and easier access for visitors.

Chandigarh

Updated on Dec 03, 2024 10:12 PM IST

ByDar Ovais, Dharamshala

Committed to fulfil every promise made to public: Himachal CM Sukhvinder Sukhu after CLP meet

Congress legislature party meet comes days ahead of party’s planned event to celebrate govt’s two years

Himachal CM Sukhvinder Sukhu , deputy CM Mukesh Agnihotri and Congress state unit chief Pratibha Singh at the Congress legislature party meet . (HT Photo)

Chandigarh

Updated on Dec 03, 2024 10:10 PM IST

ByDar Ovais, Dharamshala

After Himachal government’s assurance, Hamirpur hospital removes closure notice

Notably, the management had requested help transfer hospital land. It later put up a notice stating that the facility will be closed from December 1, prompting protests from locals who demanded that the hospital continue operating

Himachal CM Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu had assured of all help. (File)

Chandigarh

Updated on Dec 03, 2024 09:22 AM IST

ByDar Ovais, Dharamshala

Himachal government to table Bill to amend land transfer laws in assembly over Hamirpur hospital protests

Himachal CM Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu Sukhu, who on Sunday convened a meeting to discuss the issue of land transfer related to charitable hospital at Hamipur, directed officials to prepare a draft of the amendment bill

Himachal CM Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu (FIle)

Chandigarh

Published on Dec 01, 2024 09:28 PM IST

ByDar Ovais, Dharamshala

Tibetan government-in-exile flags ‘colonial style’ schools at UN forum

UN advocacy officer from the Tibet Bureau Geneva condemned the Chinese government for what he described as a systematic campaign of cultural destruction that threatens the survival of Tibetan identity

Tibet has raised concern over forced enrolment of children in the colonial-style boarding schools in occupied Tibet. (File)

Chandigarh

Published on Dec 01, 2024 09:26 PM IST

ByDar Ovais, Dharamshala

Come March, flight ops at Kangra airport to be extended till sunset

Currently, the airport operates in a single shift till 2 pm amid staff limitations but will get around 50 more police personnel

The airport authorities are also planning the reconfiguration of the existing terminal building. (File)

Chandigarh

Updated on Nov 30, 2024 06:26 AM IST

ByDar Ovais, Dharamshala

Cut off by road four months after flood fury, Malana to get ropeway for goods’ supply

The district administration officials said the main road, which was destroyed by the cloudbursts on July 31, may take another year to restore. However, it is currently being used by pedestrians

Flashfloods triggered by a cloudburst on July 31 had damaged the road linking the Malana village to the rest of Kullu. (File)

Chandigarh

Published on Nov 17, 2024 10:56 PM IST

ByDar Ovais, Dharamshala

After brief respite, Baddi’s AQI slips back into ‘very poor’ range

Notably, Baddi figured among 22 cities, including Chandigarh, nationally where the AQI breached the 300 mark on Friday

The AQI in Himachal’s Baddi deteriorated to 311. (File)

Chandigarh

Updated on Nov 16, 2024 08:48 AM IST

ByDar Ovais, Dharamshala

Himachal moves apex court over HC order, CPSes vacate offices

After the high court orders, chief secretary Prabodh Saxena on Wednesday evening issued orders to take away the facilities like cars, bungalows, offices and staff

After the judgement on Wednesday, Himachal advocate general Anup Rattan had said the state government will challenge the order in the Supreme Court. (Getty Images/iStockphoto)

Chandigarh

Updated on Nov 15, 2024 08:22 AM IST

ByShailee Dogra/Dar Ovais, Shimla/dharamshala

Opposition hails verdict, HP government eyes legal recourse as HC declares CPS’ appointments void

Himachal Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu while talking to mediapersons in Dharamshala said he had not yet gone through the details of the orders

BJP leader and petitioner in HC Satpal Singh Satti (File)

Chandigarh

Updated on Nov 14, 2024 09:08 AM IST

ByShailee Dogra, Dar Ovais, Shimla/dharamshala

Tibetan delegates call attention to Derge Dam project at COP29

The Dharamshala based Central Tibetan Administration (CTA), said the Tibetan representatives Dechen Palmo and Dhondup Wangmo are bringing attention to environmental concerns in Tibet at COP29

Officials said they highlighted the potential ecological impacts of the Derge Dam project. (File)

Chandigarh

Updated on Nov 13, 2024 09:44 AM IST

ByDar Ovais, Dharamshala

Natural farming covers over 80% land in Hamirpur hamlet

Initially, 26 farmers received two-day training sessions to help transition approximately 264 bigha of land owned by 62 farmer families in Harned village

Of the total 264 bigha cultivable land, natural farming is being practised on 218 bigha land in Hamirpur’s Harned village. (File)

Chandigarh

Updated on Nov 11, 2024 06:58 AM IST

ByDar Ovais, Dharamshala

Prolonged dry spell worries Kangra farmers amid rabi season

With dry weather conditions prevailing, many stations across the state have recorded the highest November temperatures ever in recent days

The sowing season for rabi crops begins in mid-October. (File)

Chandigarh

Updated on Nov 10, 2024 08:30 AM IST

ByDar Ovais, Dharamshala

US’ Austin Cox glides his way to world cup title

US’ Austin Cox was comfortably ahead of India’s Ranjeet Singh, who secured the second spot with 3,557.3 points and third finisher Poland’s Dominik Kapica who secured 3,552.4

A contestant in action during the 2024 Paragliding World Cup in Bir Billing. (HT Photo)

Chandigarh

Updated on Nov 10, 2024 08:28 AM IST

ByDar Ovais, Dharamshala

DPR for Dal Lake’s conservation to be ready in one and half months

Deputy chief whip and Shahpur MLA Kewal Singh Pathania on Thursday said that Malligavad conducted an in-depth study of the lake’s water leakage issues during his inspection and provided recommendations to the district administration officials

After the lake went dry last month, the Kangra administration contacted Malligavad, a techie-turned-lake-conservationist, who has successfully revitalised several water bodies in Bengaluru and invited him to visit the lake. (HT File)

Chandigarh

Updated on Nov 08, 2024 09:12 AM IST

ByDar Ovais, Dharamshala

Polish paraglider stranded in higher reaches of Kangra rescued

The pilot was rescued and airlifted early on Tuesday by the chopper. He was injured and has been admitted to a hospital at Palampur

The Polish free-flyer was stranded in the higher ranges of Kangra district. (File)

Chandigarh

Updated on Nov 06, 2024 11:29 AM IST

ByDar Ovais, Dharamshala

Lake Man bats for natural methods to revive Dharamshala’s Dal

After surveying Dal Lake, Anand Malligavad, known as the “Lake Man“ on Tuesday met with officials from various departments to discuss the lake’s restoration

Dharamshala’s Da Lake has dried up.l (File)

Chandigarh

Published on Nov 06, 2024 11:21 AM IST

ByDar Ovais, Dharamshala

Polish paraglider yet to be rescued as ops in Bir Billing enter Day 2

Although the rescue operation was underway, the efforts to airlift the paraglider failed due to tough terrain on Monday

The Polish free-flyer who is stranded in the higher ranges of Kangra district. (File)

Chandigarh

Updated on Nov 05, 2024 07:28 AM IST

ByDar Ovais, Dharamshala

Dal revival in focus as ‘Lake Man’ arrives in Dharamshala

The Lake Man, Anand Malligavad, surveyed the lake area along with some officials and tourism stakeholders. He also met the locals residing near the lake.

The lake’s desiccation has drawn strong reactions from locals due to its religious significance for the community. (File)

Chandigarh

Updated on Nov 05, 2024 07:06 AM IST

ByDar Ovais, Dharamshala

Mercury hits November highs in Dharamshala, Solan

It comes a day after Una (33.4° C) and Keylong (20.5° C) recorded the highest temperatures ever in November on Saturday

Maximum temperatures remained above normal in parts of the Himachal. (File)

Chandigarh

Published on Nov 04, 2024 08:54 PM IST

ByDar Ovais, Dharamshala

Paragliders take on 68-km aerial course as world cup begins

On the first day, Austin Cox of the US was in the lead with 1,000 points, followed by Poland’s Dominik Kapica in second with 861 points and Hungary’s Bence Halasz in third with 858 points

Paragliding action the World Cup 2024 began at Bir Billing. (File)

Chandigarh

Published on Nov 04, 2024 08:50 PM IST

ByDar Ovais, Dharamshala

After monsoon slump, HP hoteliers pin hopes on snow season, year-end festivities

In July, the hotel occupancy on weekdays had gone down to 20-25% and while it hovered around 40% on weekends, much lower than the usual 80% witnessed in June

Hotel occupancy rates in October were slightly higher compared to the monsoon months. (Deepak Sansta/HT)

Chandigarh

Updated on Nov 04, 2024 08:49 PM IST

ByDar Ovais, Dharamshala

Over 100 paragliders descend on Himachal’s Bir Billing, as World Cup takes off

Of the 148 applicants for the Paragliding World Cup 2024, 105 pilots have been shortlisted for the competition so far

The World Cup will culminate on November 9. (File)

Chandigarh

Updated on Nov 02, 2024 06:24 AM IST

ByDar Ovais, Dharamshala

Belgian paraglider died after failing to release reserve chute: Officials on Bir Billing mishap

Notably, the officials said the Belgian pilot was not registered with the Billing Paragliding Association (BPA) for the upcoming Paragliding World Cup, which is set to begin from November 2

The reserve parachute’s failed release led to the fatal crash-landing. (File)

Chandigarh

Updated on Oct 31, 2024 08:52 AM IST

ByDar Ovais, Dharamshala

Arrival of students from Tibet dips in Tibetan Children’s Village schools in HP

This year, no new admissions of students coming from Tibet have been reported at Tibetan Children’s Village schools in upper Dharamshala and Gopalpur as compared to the nearly 1,000 Tibetan kids, taking admission in these schools a decade ago.

There are nearly 1,000 students in the Tibetan Children’s Village (TCV) school in upper Dharamshala at present. The school was started in 1960 after the arrival of the Dalai Lama. (HT Photo)

Chandigarh

Published on Oct 28, 2024 11:12 AM IST

ByDar Ovais, Dharamshala

Enrolment of Tibetan children in Himachal schools declines sharply

Tibetan Children's Village schools in Himachal Pradesh report nearly zero new admissions from Tibet, citing stricter border controls and low birth rates.

Tibetan school students at the Tibetan Children's Village School near Dharamsala. (Shyam Sharma/Hindustan Times)

India News

Updated on Oct 28, 2024 05:54 AM IST

ByDar Ovais, Dharamshala

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Dar Ovais

Dar Ovais is the Dharamshala-based correspondent in the Himachal Pradesh bureau of Hindustan Times. He covers politics, tourism, Tibetan affairs and environmental issues.

According to data from the Tea Board India at Palampur, Himachal produced only 8,67,216 kg of tea by October this year, a sharp decline from the 11,07,576 kg produced during the same period in 2023

The political faceoff has intensified in recent days. While the BJP accuses the Congress of failing to fulfil its promises made to the public, the Congress has retaliated, alleging that the BJP attempted to create political instability and spread misinformation to mislead the public.

The committee’s recommendations include the allotment of land to 6,736 displaced families and the establishment of a grievance redressal cell to address concerns related to infrastructure and facilities

Himachal Pradesh faces a dry winter, with IMD predicting above-normal temperatures and below-normal rainfall, following significant recent deficits.

A new 800m ropeway connecting Mata Baglamukhi Temple and Pandoh aims to boost tourism, offering scenic views and easier access for visitors.

Congress legislature party meet comes days ahead of party’s planned event to celebrate govt’s two years

Notably, the management had requested help transfer hospital land. It later put up a notice stating that the facility will be closed from December 1, prompting protests from locals who demanded that the hospital continue operating

Himachal CM Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu Sukhu, who on Sunday convened a meeting to discuss the issue of land transfer related to charitable hospital at Hamipur, directed officials to prepare a draft of the amendment bill

UN advocacy officer from the Tibet Bureau Geneva condemned the Chinese government for what he described as a systematic campaign of cultural destruction that threatens the survival of Tibetan identity

Currently, the airport operates in a single shift till 2 pm amid staff limitations but will get around 50 more police personnel

The district administration officials said the main road, which was destroyed by the cloudbursts on July 31, may take another year to restore. However, it is currently being used by pedestrians

Notably, Baddi figured among 22 cities, including Chandigarh, nationally where the AQI breached the 300 mark on Friday

After the high court orders, chief secretary Prabodh Saxena on Wednesday evening issued orders to take away the facilities like cars, bungalows, offices and staff

Himachal Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu while talking to mediapersons in Dharamshala said he had not yet gone through the details of the orders

The Dharamshala based Central Tibetan Administration (CTA), said the Tibetan representatives Dechen Palmo and Dhondup Wangmo are bringing attention to environmental concerns in Tibet at COP29

Initially, 26 farmers received two-day training sessions to help transition approximately 264 bigha of land owned by 62 farmer families in Harned village

With dry weather conditions prevailing, many stations across the state have recorded the highest November temperatures ever in recent days

US’ Austin Cox was comfortably ahead of India’s Ranjeet Singh, who secured the second spot with 3,557.3 points and third finisher Poland’s Dominik Kapica who secured 3,552.4

Deputy chief whip and Shahpur MLA Kewal Singh Pathania on Thursday said that Malligavad conducted an in-depth study of the lake’s water leakage issues during his inspection and provided recommendations to the district administration officials

The pilot was rescued and airlifted early on Tuesday by the chopper. He was injured and has been admitted to a hospital at Palampur

After surveying Dal Lake, Anand Malligavad, known as the “Lake Man“ on Tuesday met with officials from various departments to discuss the lake’s restoration

Although the rescue operation was underway, the efforts to airlift the paraglider failed due to tough terrain on Monday

The Lake Man, Anand Malligavad, surveyed the lake area along with some officials and tourism stakeholders. He also met the locals residing near the lake.

It comes a day after Una (33.4° C) and Keylong (20.5° C) recorded the highest temperatures ever in November on Saturday

On the first day, Austin Cox of the US was in the lead with 1,000 points, followed by Poland’s Dominik Kapica in second with 861 points and Hungary’s Bence Halasz in third with 858 points

In July, the hotel occupancy on weekdays had gone down to 20-25% and while it hovered around 40% on weekends, much lower than the usual 80% witnessed in June

Of the 148 applicants for the Paragliding World Cup 2024, 105 pilots have been shortlisted for the competition so far

Notably, the officials said the Belgian pilot was not registered with the Billing Paragliding Association (BPA) for the upcoming Paragliding World Cup, which is set to begin from November 2

This year, no new admissions of students coming from Tibet have been reported at Tibetan Children’s Village schools in upper Dharamshala and Gopalpur as compared to the nearly 1,000 Tibetan kids, taking admission in these schools a decade ago.

Tibetan Children's Village schools in Himachal Pradesh report nearly zero new admissions from Tibet, citing stricter border controls and low birth rates.

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