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Showing posts from October, 2025

NGT delivers green verdict: Shankargarh forest saved from tourism grab!

NGT DELIVERS GREEN VERDICT: SHANKARGARH FOREST SAVED FROM TOURISM GRAB! In a massive victory for environmentalists, the National Green Tribunal (NGT) delivered a crushing verdict on the evening of October 31, 2025, legally securing the future of the Shankargarh Nagar Van, mere hours after the Tina Khatri's news in Free Press celebrated the park’s transformation in its morning edition. The NGT's Central Zone Bench, disposing of Original Application No. 37/2025(CZ), ruled in favor of the applicant, Samarjeet Jadhav, and issued strict, mandatory directions to protect the green belt from commercial development.   Judgment and effects The NGT's final order ensures that the State Government's prior administrative decision to transfer a large parcel of the forest for tourism is legally quashed and permanently prohibited. The essential points of the judgment are:  * Maintain Forest Status: The NGT directed the State of Madhya Pradesh to maintain the status of forest on the disp...

Karnataka Rajyotsava​ on Nov 1: Discover the stories, flavours & colours

Karnataka Rajyotsava​ on Nov 1 Discover the stories, flavours & colours TINA KHATRI Welcome to a journey through Karnataka, a state full of history, culture, nature, and flavor! Did you know Karnataka is India’s largest coffee producer, home to ancient empires, grand palaces, vibrant festivals, and incredible wildlife? Today, we will explore some of these wonders through activities that are fun, hands-on, and educational. First, we’ll make Kosambari, a fresh and colorful salad. While preparing it, you’ll learn about Karnataka’s traditional cuisine and enjoy creating a healthy, tasty dish with your own hands. Next, we’ll try Coffee Art, where simple instant coffee becomes your painting tool. You’ll create landscapes inspired by Karnataka’s famous coffee plantations, practicing creativity, focus, and fine motor skills. Finally, our Adventure Story will take you through the state’s history, famous places, and festivals. By filling in the blanks and guessing key facts, you’ll explore K...

National Day of Austria on Oct 26: Whispers from the alps: a tale of a timeless bloom

National Day of Austria on Oct 26 Whispers from the alps: a tale of a timeless bloom TINA KHATRI Beneath the vast and velvet sky, Where silent peaks in grandeur lie, The edelweiss blooms pure and bright, A talisman of love and light. The rhyme talks about the beautiful, peaceful alpine land of Austria. The small, kind country celebrating their freedom on Oct 26. For Indians, who share a history of struggle for independence and peace, Austria’s post-war journey offers a powerful example of rebuilding a nation from the shadows of conflict. Celebrating together, let’s start by making edelweiss flower. It is considered to bring luck and symbolizes eternal love and fidelity. Alpine legends say that those who find an edelweiss on the mountains are destined to live a long and prosperous life, and the flower serves as a talisman against bad luck. Inspired by this, try making a delicate edelweiss flower using paper! Let’s say Gemma—come on, let’s go! In Austrian German, Gemma means “Let’s go!” ...

Faith in focus: National Bible quiz concludes

More than 350 Christian community participants including fathers and sisters from twenty Indian states attended the final round of National Parish Bible Quiz at the Atmadarshan campus in Indore. The event was organised with devotional fervour and drew clergy, religious members, and lay participants from across the country.Archbishop AAS Durairaj SVD of Bhopal, Bishop Thomas Matthew of Indore, and Bishop Augustine of Khandwa were among the dignitaries present. Around 350 participants, including fathers, sisters, and local citizens, took part in the closing ceremony. As part of the event, a lifetime achievement award was presented to Swamy and his wife for their contribution to community life, and to Fr Babu Chirayath for his service in strengthening Christian faith in North India. In his address, Fr Anand said that life’s challenges can become a divine journey when one recognises God’s purpose. He noted that the quiz reflected the centre’s mission of engaging young people with the messa...

Govardhan Puja in Indore: Early festivities light up the city; main rituals today

Govardhan Puja in Indore: Early festivities light up the city; main rituals today The city witnessed the beginning of Govardhan Puja festivities on 21 October, with temples, community spaces, and gaushalas coming alive with devotional preparations, cultural offerings, and symbolic rituals. The celebrations continue today, 22 October, with the main puja and Annakut rituals set to draw large gatherings across Indore. In several parts of the city, symbolic mounds representing Govardhan Hill were created using mud and cow dung, adorned with flowers and food items. Devotees decorated cows with turmeric, garlands, and coloured fabrics, acknowledging their significance in the ritual. Traditional songs and bhajans filled temple premises as families gathered to begin offerings from the evening. Temples such as ISKCON Indore hosted early Annakut preparations, with over 56 food items being arranged in elaborate displays to be offered today. Devotees were seen performing parikrama (circumambulatio...

School students engage in design thinking, CBSE pushes creativity

School students engage in design thinking, CBSE pushes creativity TINA KHATRI Students in Indore will now take part in activities designed to boost creativity, innovation, and design thinking, following a new initiative by the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE). With only 45% of Indian graduates currently employable in their fields, the move aims to equip young learners with skills that are vital for the future workforce. Design-driven industries—such as textiles, footwear, electronics, and digital products—contribute over ₹15 lakh crore (approximately $200 billion) annually to India’s GDP and provide jobs to millions. Recognising this, CBSE is encouraging schools to introduce design skills early, helping students prepare for careers in these important sectors. To support this effort, CBSE has launched a National Design Contest open to students from Classes IX to XII across its affiliated schools. The contest challenges students to address real-world problems through design, ...

Three lakh forest land claims may be revived under new forest rights order

Three lakh forest land claims may be revived under new forest rights order Three lakh forest land claims, previously rejected due to lack of ancestral proof, may now be revived following a significant change in the Forest Rights Act. The government has issued a new order easing documentation requirements, giving thousands of tribal and forest-dwelling families another chance to secure legal land rights. Under the revised rules, people who were unable to provide records of land use over three generations—one of the main reasons for mass rejections—can now obtain leases after verification. A fresh survey will be conducted in forest villages across the state to reassess claims. The order also expands eligibility. For the first time, certain non-tribal residents living in forest villages may qualify for land leases. In addition, the previous land ceiling of 2.5 hectares can now be exceeded in cases covered under the Forest Village Rules of 1977. Possession of land as of 13 December 2005 wi...

Roop Chaudas 2025: Women glow up with self-care & tradition ahead of Diwali

Roop Chaudas 2025 Women glow up with self-care & tradition ahead of Diwali Indore buzzed with festive energy on Sunday, as women embraced Roop Chaudas with a perfect mix of relaxation, beauty rituals, and joyful preparation for Diwali. Salons and parlours across the city were packed, offering everything from soothing body massages and herbal facials to traditional ubtan scrubs made from gram flour and turmeric. The vibe was more “me-time celebration” than just a quick beauty fix. “Roop Chaudas is my personal holiday! I ditched the usual rush and treated myself to a spa day—because glowing skin is the best Diwali decor,” laughed Supriya Sharma, a homemaker. Anju Shankarlal, another homemaker, added with a smile, “I wanted to feel fresh and relaxed, not just festive. The massage helped me hit the reset button after a week of nonstop cooking and cleaning!” Social media marketer Puja Chawla shared her love for traditional beauty hacks: “I swear by homemade ubtan—nature’s original glow ...

Indore Gears Up for Diwali 2025: A Day of Devotion, Culture, and Community

  Indore Gears Up for Diwali 2025: A Day of Devotion, Culture, and Community Indore is set to celebrate Diwali with grandeur on October 20, 2025, marking the third day of the five-day festival. The city will witness a blend of spiritual observances, cultural festivities, and community engagement, reflecting the rich traditions and vibrant spirit of the region. Spiritual Observances and Temple Celebrations Khajrana Ganesh Temple The Khajrana Ganesh Temple, a significant religious site in Indore, is hosting a grand Diwali Utsav from October 18 to October 21. On October 20, devotees can participate in the Lakshmi Puja and Annakut feast, featuring over 50 varieties of vegetarian dishes offered to Lord Ganesha. The temple is expected to draw thousands of devotees throughout the day. Bada Ganpati Temple Celebrations at the Bada Ganpati Temple on October 20 will include a special Ganesha-Lakshmi Puja, attracting a significant number of devotees. The temple is known for its massive Ganesha...

Dhanteras 2025: Electronics and Auto Sales Accelerate in Indore, Gold Loses Out to Silver

Dhanteras 2025: Electronics and Auto Sales Accelerate in Indore, Gold Loses Out to Silver This year’s Dhanteras in Indore signaled a clear transition in consumer behaviour. With sky-high gold prices and economic pressures, traditional festive buys have taken a backseat. Instead, buyers are prioritizing value-driven categories like electronics and vehicles. As Diwali approaches, retailers are hoping this trend continues — even if it comes at the cost of time-honored festive shopping habits. Indore’s festive markets saw a significant shift in consumer spending patterns this Dhanteras, with strong performances in electronics and automobiles, while gold, silver, and utensils recorded lower-than-usual sales. Traders estimate overall Dhanteras-day business at around ₹150 crore, down from ₹200 crore last year, marking a 25% decline. Despite the broader festive period since Pushya Nakshatra generating ₹2,000 crore in turnover, most retailers reported a 30–40% dip in footfall and sales compared...

High gold prices, GST reforms shift Dhanteras buying trends in Indore

High gold prices, GST reforms shift Dhanteras buying trends in Indore Tina Khatri Indore Dhanteras shopping in Indore this year is marked by a shift in consumer priorities, with record-high gold prices moderating traditional jewellery purchases and recent GST reforms fuelling a sharp rise in demand for automobiles and electronics. Gold prices have surged nearly 60% since January, now ranging between ₹1,31,920 and ₹1,32,820 for 24-karat gold. In comparison, rates were under ₹81,000 earlier this year. While the metal remains central to Dhanteras rituals, high prices are prompting consumers to either downsize or diversify. Govind Soni, a senior jeweller and precious metal dealer, said, “Footfall has been steady in the festive season, but we are noticing a clear shift. Customers are either opting for smaller gold items or moving towards silver, which is more affordable and still considered auspicious.” Silver has emerged as a popular alternative, having risen over 70% nationally this year....

Diwali Special: Rang, Ras, Roshni!

Diwali Special: Rang, Ras, Roshni! TINA KHATRI Diwali is here with joy in the air, Lights and laughter everywhere! Let’s fill our homes with colour and cheer, With fun DIYs and treats this year. No-bake sweets and paper lights, 3D rangolis, glowing nights! Crafts to make and games to play, A perfect plan for a festive day. So grab your colours, your paper, your flair — Let’s celebrate Diwali with joy to spare! Masala Chai Tiramisu Cups Ingredients: • 1 cup strong masala chai (cooled) • 200 g ladyfinger biscuits • 250 g mascarpone or cream cheese • 1/2 cup whipping cream • 1/3 cup sugar • Cocoa powder (for dusting) How to make: 1. Dip ladyfingers quickly in the cooled masala chai. 2. Whisk mascarpone and sugar until smooth. 3. Whip cream until soft peaks form, then mix with mascarpone. 4. In cups, layer soaked ladyfingers and cream mixture twice. 5. Chill for 3 hours. 6. Dust with cocoa powder before serving. Make a Paper Lantern Materials Needed • 2 colourful sheets of paper (contrasti...

Indore’s first wheelchair warrior: Lovenesh aims for paralympic glory

Indore’s first wheelchair warrior: Lovenesh aims for paralympic glory Every move, every thrust, every defence—it’s a fight against yourself TINA KHATRI What does it mean to fight when the world tells you to stay down? For Lovenesh Khanna, the answer is simple: rise. And rise he did—against every barrier, every loss, and every limitation. Now, at the age of 28, Lovenesh is Indore's first wheelchair fencer, and he’s preparing to step onto the mat for the Indore District Fencing Championship. But this story is not about a man in a wheelchair—it’s about a warrior who refuses to stay seated. Lovenesh’s story begins not in a gym or a dojo, but at home, where his parents planted the seeds of strength and determinat​ion. His father, Nitin Khanna, and his late mother, Nirmala Khanna, enrolled him in martial arts classes as a child, believing in the power of discipline and physical activity. “They wanted me to stay active, to push my limits,” Lovenesh recalled. But there was a deeper purpose...

Celebrate the International Day of the Girl Child with a burst of colour, creativity, and inspiration!

TINA KHATRI Celebrate the International Day of the Girl Child with a burst of colour, creativity, and inspiration!Dive into our vibrant DIY page featuring a crispy and healthy recipe — Rainbow Chaat Tacos — that brings global Flavors with a fun girl power twist. Then, unleash your imagination by designing a digital avatar of “The Future Me”, where you get to dream big and illustrate your future self in your dream role. Finally, challenge your knowledge and be inspired by a trivia quiz celebrating famous girls and women achievers from India and around the world. Together, these activities encourage creativity, learning, and empowerment — the perfect combo to honour the strength, diversity, and potential of girls everywhere! Rainbow Chaat Tacos Ingredients • Mini taco shells OR papad cones • ½ cup boiled chickpeas (chana) • ¼ cup chopped mango or apple (optional: pomegranate) • ¼ cup chopped tomato • ¼ cup cucumber, finely diced • 1 tbsp onion (optional) • Lemon juice • Chaat masala / s...

Indore Lights Up as Dussehra Brings Joy Under Clear Skies

Indore lights up as Dussehra brings joy under clear skies As dusk settled over Indore on Thursday, the skies cleared, and the city was illuminated with the glow of hundreds of Ravana effigies set ablaze in celebration of Vijayadashami. The air was filled with the crackling of fireworks, the scent of incense and sweets, and the sounds of devotional songs, as thousands gathered at various locations to witness the symbolic victory of good over evil. The city had been under a veil of uncertainty throughout the day, as intermittent clouds and scattered showers raised fears of disrupted festivities. But as evening approached, the clouds parted, allowing the long-awaited celebrations to proceed unhindered. Morning rituals mark the start of festivities The day began with traditional Shastra Pujan (weapon worship) performed not only by police forces but also by industry owners, vehicle owners, and machinery operators across Indore. At workshops, factories, and car garages, owners and workers ga...

World Teachers’ Day on Oct 5! From cheesy bites to crafty delights, celebrate with joy and insight!

World Teachers’ Day on Oct 5 From cheesy bites to crafty delights, celebrate with joy and insight! TINA KHATRI World Teachers’ Day is here, let’s clap and cheer! They guide, they care, they’re always near. From solving math to showing the way, They help us grow brighter every day! Get ready for a weekend packed with fun and creativity! Dive into our delicious Mini Paneer Tikka Bread Pizzas – a fusion treat your taste buds will absolutely salute! Craft your own Origami Corner Bookmarks to fold a little love into every page you read – a perfect handmade gift for your teacher. Test your smarts with a round of Teacher-Themed Trivia, filled with one-word answers and bite-sized brain boosts. And don’t forget the Games & Giggles – easy, quick games you can enjoy with your friends or family to wrap up your celebration with laughter and joy! So roll up your sleeves, grab some glue and bread, Get ready for activities that’ll dance in your head! Create, play, cook, and quiz — Let’s thank our ...

Important National & International Days in October 2025: Full List with Dates

Important National & International Days in October 2025: Full List with Dates October is a month of cultural celebrations, awareness campaigns, and historical significance. Whether you're preparing for competitive exams, planning academic calendars, or simply enhancing your general knowledge, here’s a curated list of important days in October 2025 . Full List of Important Days in October 2025 Date Event 1 October International Day of the Older Persons International Coffee Day World Vegetarian Day Mahanavami 2 October Gandhi Jayanti International Day of Non-Violence Dussehra Lal Bahadur Shastri Jayanti 3 October German Unity Day 4 October World Animal Welfare Day 5 October World Teachers' Day 6 October German-American Day World Cerebral Palsy Day World Habitat Day (First Monday of October) 7 October World Cotton Day Valmiki Jayanti 8 October Indian Air Force Day 9 October World Postal Day ...

Indore’s Ralamandal Wildlife Rescue Team Awarded ₹1 Lakh by Chief Minister for Conservation Efforts

Indore’s Rescue Squad won ₹1 Lakh Award In a significant recognition of on-ground conservation efforts, Indore’s Regional Rescue Squad of Ralamandal Wildlife Sanctuary was awarded a ₹1,00,000 cash prize by Chief Minister Mohan Yadav during a state-level felicitation event held at Van Vihar National Park. The award highlights the team’s outstanding performance in wildlife rescue and response operations across urban and forest-fringe areas. This recognition comes at a time when the frequency and complexity of human-wildlife interactions are on the rise. "We work so no life is lost unnecessarily,” Yohan Katara, in-charge of the squad, said, “The field is challenging — not only are we working with distressed wild animals, but we are also responsible for public safety. This award reinforces our commitment.” Range Officer Yogesh Yadav, who oversees the broader operational framework, said, “Wildlife rescues are no longer rare events. Increasing urban sprawl has brought animals like leopa...