Current Context: The Government of India has registered Sirmaur’s special dried ginger variety “Hatti Saunth” under the Plant Variety and Farmers’ Rights Protection Authority. ABOUT Hatti Saunth Type: A unique variety of dried ginger from Sirmaur, Himachal Pradesh. Registration: Granted under the Protection of Plant Varieties and Farmers’ Rights Act, 2001. Research: Characterized and documented by scientists of Himachal Pradesh Agriculture University with farmers’ support. Significance of Recognition Farmers and traders will get legal protection and rights over the variety. Improves branding and marketing opportunities for Haṭhī Saunth in national markets. Expected to boost farmers’ income and encourage more research....Read More

Current Context: The Cold Desert Biosphere Reserve in Himachal Pradesh has been added to the UNESCO World Network of Biosphere Reserves during the 37th ICC Man and the Biosphere session. ABOUT Cold Desert Biosphere Reserve Location: Situated in Lahaul-Spiti district, Himachal Pradesh. Area: Covers around 7,770 sq. km in the Trans-Himalayan region. Significance: Recognized for unique cold desert ecosystems and sustainable living practices. UNESCO Recognition: With this addition, India now has 13 biosphere reserves in UNESCO’s global list.Read More

Current Context : Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently purchased Pullas (traditional hemp slippers) for priests of the Kashi Vishwanath Temple, highlighting their cultural and sustainable value. ABOUT PULLAS Origin: Himachal Pradesh (mainly Banjar Valley of Kullu district). Material: Handmade using hemp fibers (from wild cannabis stems), sheep wool, and colorful embroidery threads. Eco-friendly Features: Lightweight and breathable. Natural antibacterial and acupressure properties. Ideal for use in temples and kitchens where leather is prohibited. Ergonomic Benefits: Promotes foot health, comfort, and blood circulation. CULTURAL AND HISTORICAL SIGNIFICANCE Deeply rooted in Himachali traditional attire and temple culture. Traditionally made by women, passing....Read More

CURRENT CONTEXT : The state government announced the introduction of the CBSE curriculum in 100 government senior secondary schools to raise academic standards and support holistic development of students. SIGNIFICANCE Enhances national-level competitiveness of government school students. Facilitates uniformity in syllabus with central schools. Improves chances for students in national exams and career opportunities.Read More

Current Context : The water level at Pong Dam, which lies on the Beas in Himachal Pradesh, has risen by more than five feet above the maximum permissible level due to heavy rainfall during the past few days. ABOUT PONG DAM also known as the Beas Dam or Maharana Pratap Sagar. Location: Kangra district, Himachal Pradesh (in the Shivalik hills) River: Beas River Year of Completion: 1975 Type: Earth-fill embankment dam Reservoir Name: Maharana Pratap Sagar Reservoir Area: ~260 sq. km Catchment Area: 12,562 sq. km Main Purpose: Water storage for irrigation, hydroelectric power generation, flood control Ramsar Site: Pong....Read More

Current Context : A National Security Guard (NSG) team, which was in Shimla on a three-day visit, has suggested to the district administration to enhance security at the famous Lord Hanuman Temple at Jakhu. ABOUT JAKHU TEMPLE Jakhu Temple is an ancient and revered shrine of Lord Hanuman located atop Jakhu Hill, the highest peak in Shimla. It is famous for its 108-foot Hanuman statue, which stands as a prominent landmark visible from most parts of Shimla and attracts thousands of devotees and tourists every year. Location: Jakhu Hill, 2,455 m (8,054 ft) above sea level, about 2.5 km east....Read More

Current Context: NotOnMap, a community-driven sustainable tourism initiative founded in Chamba, Himachal Pradesh, received international recognition at the Harvard-University of Tokyo Asia Conference (ACONF) 2025, held from 20–24 August 2025 in Tokyo. ABOUT NOTONMAP Founded In: Chamba, Himachal Pradesh Model: Connects travellers with rural and heritage communities Focus Areas: Preserving local culture Promoting cultural exchange Strengthening rural livelihoods ABOUT HPAIR (Harvard Project for Asian & International Relations) Established: 1991 Objective: Dialogue on major political, social, and economic issues in the Asia-Pacific Past Partners: World Bank, UNHCR, Schwarzman Scholars 2025 Partners: JR East (Japan Metro Operator), International Institute for Strategy &....Read More

Current Context : The first ever zero-waste tribal fair of Himachal Pradesh was celebrated at Keylong in Lahaul and Spiti district. ABOUT THE ZERO-WASTE TRIBAL FAIR Location: Keylong, Lahaul & Spiti district Duration: 14–16 August 2025 (three days) Inauguration: By Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu (virtually) Development Initiatives: Foundation laid for projects worth ₹36 crore to boost local agriculture, horticulture, tourism, and connectivity Zero-Waste Features Complete ban on single-use plastic Use of biodegradable utensils (leaf plates, eco-cups) Refillable water stations provided Waste segregation through support from NGOs like Healing Himalayas and SaahasRead More

Current Context : Chandrarekha Dhadwal, renowned litterateur and educationist from Dharamsala, has been honoured with the Himachal Gaurav Award by the Government of Himachal Pradesh. ABOUT THE AWARD Introduced By: Government of Himachal Pradesh Nature: One of the highest civilian honours of the state Purpose: To recognise individuals for their outstanding contributions in various fields such as literature, art, culture, social service, education, science, sports, and public life. Occasion of Presentation: Usually conferred during State-level Independence Day or Republic Day celebrations. ABOUT CHANDRAREKHA DHADWAL Profession: Litterateur and Educationist Residence: Dharamsala, Himachal Pradesh Teaching Career: Over 30 years in the field....Read More

Current Context : Naib Subedar Satish Kumar of the 4 Dogra Regiment has been awarded the Vir Chakra, India’s third-highest wartime gallantry award, for exceptional bravery during Operation Sindoor. About the Awardee Unit: 4 Dogra Regiment. Native Place: Samohali village, Buhala Bhadiyara Gram Panchayat, Jogindernagar subdivision, Mandi district, Himachal Pradesh. ABOUT THE VIR CHAKRA Type: Third-highest wartime gallantry award in India (after Param Vir Chakra and Maha Vir Chakra). Established: 26 January 1950 (with retrospective effect from 15 August 1947). Eligibility: Officers and men of the Indian Armed Forces (Army, Navy, Air Force). May also be conferred on members of....Read More