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India Gazette
an hour ago
- Politics
- India Gazette
President Droupadi Murmu graces opening of Rashtrapati Tapovan, Rashtrapati Niketan for public visit in Dehradun
Dehradun (Uttarakhand) [India], June 20 (ANI): President Droupadi Murmu on Friday graced the opening of Rashtrapati Tapovan and Rashtrapati Niketan at Dehradun. She also inaugurated public amenities, including the Visitor Facilitation Centre, the Cafeteria, and the Souvenir Shop, and laid the foundation stone for Rashtrapati Udyan at Rashtrapati Niketan. President Murmu had also inaugurated an amphitheater at Rashtrapati Niketan yesterday. Rashtrapati Tapovan, situated on Rajpur Road in Dehradun, is a 19-acre Presidential Estate nestled in the Himalayan foothills, emphasizing spiritual retreat and ecological preservation. A dense forest patch rich in native vegetation, Tapovan hosts 117 plant species, 52 butterflies, 41 bird species, and 7 wild mammals, including some protected species. The area features natural bamboo groves and undisturbed woodland ecosystems, President's Secretariat said. Established in 1976 as a Presidential Retreat, Rashtrapati Niketan has a rich heritage tracing back to 1838 when the estate served as a summer camp for the Governor General's Bodyguard. It spans 21 acres and includes Lily ponds, featuring historic buildings, orchards, and stables. Rashtrapati Udyan, a 132-acre public park, will be a model of accessibility and ecological responsibility -- a Net-Zero public park, fully accessible to Divyangjan. It aims to become a community engagement hub to promote wellness, culture, and civic pride among citizens. A book on the biodiversity of Rashtrapati Niketan, Rashtrapati Tapovan and Rashtrapati Udyan was also released on the occasion. This book catalogues over 300 species of flora and 170 species of fauna, including butterflies, birds, and mammals of Rashtrapati Niketan, Tapovan and Udyan. The Rashtrapati Tapovan and Rashtrapati Niketan will be open for public viewing from June 24 and July 1, 2025 respectively. The President visited the National Institute for Empowerment of Persons with Visual Disabilities at Dehradun and interacted with the students. She also visited the Model School Science Lab and Computer Lab as well as an exhibition. Speaking on the occasion, the President said that the progress of a country or society can be judged by the way the people treat persons with disabilities in that society. India's history is full of inspiring incidents of sensitivity and inclusiveness. Elements of human compassion and love have always been present in our culture and civilization. She stated that through the Sugamya Bharat Abhiyan, which emphasizes developing an accessible physical environment, transport, information, and communication ecosystem, the government is striving for empowerment and equal participation of the divyangjan. The President said that today's era is the era of science and technology. With the help of advanced technology, even people with disabilities can be able to contribute to the mainstream. She was happy to note that the National Institute for the Empowerment of Persons with Visual Disabilities is giving special emphasis on the all-around development of students through an inclusive education system and latest technological resources. She said that efforts must be made by society to encourage disabled people in every sphere of life. (ANI)
Indian Express
2 hours ago
- Politics
- Indian Express
Delhi Confidential: Special greetings
Among the host of greetings that President Droupadi Murmu received on her 67th birthday on Friday, one message stood out for its special wish in the President's native language — Santhali. Sent by the Ukrainian embassy in New Delhi, 'Sagun Janam Maha', which translates to 'a blessed birthday', had the photo of Ambassador Oleksandr Polishchuk presenting his credentials to Murmu. The embassy also greeted the President in English and in their own language alongside the Santhali greetings. Decision Pending THE CONGRESS high command is yet to finalise the appointment of its district committees (DCC) in Gujarat — a pilot project for empowering DCCs across the country — but it has already held meetings with AICC observers appointed to oversee the same exercise in Haryana and MP. Sources said the observers for the two states met the Congress high command virtually Friday. The observers submitted reports to the party leadership and gave suggestions for DCC chiefs, it is learnt. For Gujarat, the observers had submitted the reports for each district more than a month ago, but the appointments are pending. Insignia of Honour TO APPRECIATE the hard work of jail staff in Delhi Prisons, DG (Prisons) Satish Golcha has approved a new insignia — specifying Delhi Karagaar in red and blue and including the national emblem — for all the uniformed personnel in the department, asking them to wear it on the upper right side, above the name tag, from July 1. A communication to senior jail staff stated that Delhi Prisons is a torch-bearer institution of the country for its various correctional programmes for its inmates. It is important to highlight that throughout the three waves of Covid-19 pandemic, the Delhi Prisons administration has tirelessly endeavoured to safeguard the health of around 20,000 inmates from the risk of infection in the confined environment of the prisons, the communication stated.
Time of India
5 hours ago
- Politics
- Time of India
President inaugurates Rashtrapati Niketan, Tapovan on 67th birthday
Dehradun: President Droupadi Murmu on Friday inaugurated part of the Presidential Retreat in Dehradun, now renamed Rashtrapati Niketan, on her 67th birthday and Rashtrapati Tapovan which will be open for public viewing from June 24. The president, who is on a three-day visit to Uttarakhand that began Thursday, also laid the foundation stone for Rashtrapati Udyan, a 132-acre public garden at Rashtrapati Niketan. She also visited the National Institute for the Empowerment of Persons with Visual Disabilities (NIEPVD) and was moved to tears when a group of visually impaired children sang for her on her birthday. Union Minister for social justice and empowerment, Virendra Kumar was also present on the occasion. "The progress of a country or society can be judged by the way it treats persons with disabilities," she said. "India's history is full of inspiring incidents of sensitivity and inclusiveness. Elements of human compassion and love have always been present in our culture and civilisation. Through the Sugamya Bharat Abhiyan, which focuses on creating an accessible physical, transport, information, and communication ecosystem, the govt is striving for empowerment and equal participation of the divyangjan. " She added, "Today's era is one of science and technology. With the help of advanced tools, even people with disabilities can contribute meaningfully to the mainstream. Society must support and encourage them in every sphere." Later, Murmu inaugurated the Rashtrapati Niketan in the presence of Uttarakhand Governor Lt Gen Gurmit Singh (retd) and chief minister Dhami. She also released a postage stamp marking 125 years of the Raj Bhavan in Nainital. The 172-acre Presidential Estate has been transformed from an exclusive retreat into a public space celebrating biodiversity, heritage, and sustainability. Established in 1838 as a camp for the Governor General's Bodyguard, the estate later served as a private retreat for India's presidents. For decades, its serene orchards, colonial stables, and forest trails remained off-limits to the public till the creation of Rashtrapati Niketan, Rashtrapati Tapovan, and Rashtrapati Udyan. Spread across 21 acres, Niketan blends natural beauty with heritage. It now features a 200-seat amphitheatre and visitor amenities designed to foster cultural engagement and reflection. Its corridors showcase curated archival photographs from the Presidential Archives, offering glimpses into key moments of India's history and the evolving role of the presidency. The presidential rooms have been adorned with Uttarakhand's traditional art including Pahari miniatures, Aipan designs, and local crafts reflecting the region's cultural richness. Rashtrapati Tapovan, developed in collaboration with the Uttarakhand forest department, is a serene forest zone inspired by India's ancient tradition of learning in nature. It features silent zones, forest trails, meditation huts, shaded pergolas, and hosts 117 plant species, 52 butterflies, 41 bird species, and seven wild mammals, including protected species. Natural bamboo groves and undisturbed woodland ecosystems enrich the landscape. While Tapovan will open to the public on June 24 while Niketan will open on July 1. Biodiversity conservation lies at the core of the experience. Visitors can join expert-led walks to explore native medicinal plants, understand forest ecology, and learn from local ecological knowledge. Rashtrapati Udyan, for which the president laid a foundation stone, is a 132-acre sustainable public park designed through public consultation. It will include walking and cycling tracks, butterfly domes, an 800-seat amphitheatre, an aviary, and boating zones. Intended as a green lung for Dehradun, it also aims to serve as a national symbol of environmental responsibility. Officials said biodiversity restoration is central across all three zones. Native trees have been replanted, degraded grasslands left untouched to encourage pollinators, and wetlands revived to support amphibians, birds, and aquatic life. Interpretive boards throughout the estate explain these efforts: how the estate's microclimate supports the Doon Valley watershed, why native bees are vital for agriculture, and how small ecological interventions can have lasting impact. Heritage and ecology come together here to create a space that is intellectually enriching, emotionally grounding, and environmentally conscious. A book documenting the biodiversity of Rashtrapati Niketan, Tapovan, and Udyan was also released on the occasion. It catalogues over 300 species of flora and 170 species of fauna, including butterflies, birds, and mammals found across the estate.
Time of India
7 hours ago
- Entertainment
- Time of India
Watch: President Murmu breaks down in tears as specially-abled students sing birthday tribute in Uttarakhand
A Song That Touched the President's Heart 'I Could Not Hold Back My Tears' President's Schedule in Uttarakhand Live Events Birthday Wishes Pour In (You can now subscribe to our (You can now subscribe to our Economic Times WhatsApp channel President Droupadi Murmu got emotional on Friday when students from the National Institute for Empowerment of Persons with Visual Disabilities (NIEPVD) sang a special birthday song for her. The touching moment took place during her visit to the institute in Uttarakhand, where she is currently on a three-day differently abled students sang a heartfelt tribute to the President on her 67th birthday. The song was so moving that President Murmu was seen with tears in her eyes, struggling to hold back her emotions. Photos and videos of the moment quickly spread across social media, with many users praising the students' gesture and the President's after the performance, the President said, 'I could not hold back my tears. They sang from their heart and did it so beautifully.' She thanked the students and staff of the Institute for their warm wishes and her visit from June 19 to 21, President Murmu is scheduled to inaugurate the Presidential Niketan and take part in cultural and educational programmes . She will also launch several development projects on the campus. On Saturday, she will participate in a state government event to mark International Day of Yoga and release a book on the biodiversity of the Presidential Minister Narendra Modi, Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge, and other leaders wished President Murmu on her Modi wrote: 'Warmest birthday wishes to Rashtrapati Ji. Her life and leadership continue to inspire crores. May she be blessed with a long and healthy life in service of the people.'Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi also posted on X, saying, 'Hearty congratulations and best wishes to Honourable President Droupadi Murmu ji on her birthday.'Inputs from agencies
NDTV
7 hours ago
- Politics
- NDTV
172-Acre Presidential Estate In Uttarakhand Now Open For Public
Dehradun: Nestled in the Doon Valley, the 172-acre Presidential Estate here has undergone a transformation from an exclusive retreat to a vibrant public space that celebrates biodiversity, heritage, and sustainability, a Rashtrapati Bhavan official said on Friday. On the day of her 67th birthday, President Droupadi Murmu on Friday opened the Rashtrapati Tapovan and Rashtrapati Niketan for the public. She also inaugurated public amenities, including the visitor facilitation centre, the cafeteria, and the souvenir shop, and laid the foundation stone for Rashtrapati Udyan. The Rashtrapati Tapovan and Rashtrapati Niketan will be open for public viewing from June 24 and July 1, 2025 respectively. President Droupadi Murmu graced the opening of Rashtrapati Tapovan and Rashtrapati Niketan at Dehradun. She also inaugurated public amenities, including the Visitor Facilitation Centre, the Cafeteria, and the Souvenir Shop, and laid the foundation stone for Rashtrapati Udyan at… — President of India (@rashtrapatibhvn) June 20, 2025 Established in 1838 as a camp for the Governor General's Bodyguard, the estate later served as a secluded retreat for India's presidents. For decades, its serene orchards, colonial stables, and forested paths remained out of reach for ordinary citizens, visited only by those in the highest offices of the state, said Navika Gupta, Deputy Press Secretary to the President. "Today, that exclusivity has been replaced by inclusion. With the creation of Rashtrapati Niketan, Rashtrapati Tapovan, and Rashtrapati Udyan, the estate has been reimagined as a national asset, an open, living space that connects people to the story of the Presidency, the richness of Indian biodiversity, and the promise of a sustainable future," she said. Spread across 21 acres, Rashtrapati Niketan blends heritage with natural beauty. Its mango and litchi orchards still flourish, and the space has been enhanced with a 200-seat amphitheatre and modern visitor amenities that offer opportunities for cultural engagement and reflection. Presidents who once walked these paths are remembered through guided tours that invite visitors to trace the footsteps of visionaries whose decisions shaped the nation, Gupta said. The corridors now feature a curated display of archival photographs from the Presidential archives, offering glimpses into key moments of India's journey and the evolving role of the Presidency. These evocative images turn the heritage walk into a meaningful encounter with India's constitutional legacy, she said. The interiors of the Presidential rooms have been enriched with the artistic heritage of Uttarakhand, featuring Pahari miniatures, Aipan designs, and a variety of local crafts that reflect the region's rich cultural traditions, Gupta said. Adjacent to Niketan lies Tapovan, a serene forest zone developed in collaboration with the Uttarakhand forest department. Inspired by India's ancient tradition of learning amidst nature, Tapovan features silent zones, forest trails, meditation huts, and shaded pergolas for quiet contemplation. "Biodiversity conservation is central to the experience. Visitors can take part in expert-led walks to learn about native medicinal plants, the intricate roles of forest ecosystems, and the traditional ecological knowledge of local communities. It's a space where awareness grows naturally, rooted in experience rather than instruction," she said. Spanning 132 acres, Rashtrapati Udyan is a visionary model of sustainable public space, net-zero park. "Developed through public consultation and accessible to all, the plan of the park includes walking and cycling tracks, butterfly domes, an 800-seat amphitheatre, an aviary, and boating zones. The park aims to serve not only as a green lung for Dehradun but also as a national symbol of environmental responsibility," Gupta said. Across all three zones, biodiversity revival and protection form the backbone of the estate's mission. "Native trees have been replanted in previously degraded areas, grasslands left untouched to encourage pollinators, and wetlands restored to support amphibians, birds, and aquatic life," she explained. Interpretive boards throughout the estate help visitors understand these efforts, explaining how the estate's unique microclimate supports the Doon Valley's watershed, why preserving native bee species is essential for agriculture, and how small-scale ecological interventions can create long-lasting environmental impacts, Gupta said. "Whether it's a school group tracing the life of a President, a nature enthusiast exploring local flora, or a family enjoying open green spaces, the estate offers a layered and immersive experience. Here, heritage and ecology coalesce, creating a space that is intellectually enriching, emotionally grounding, and environmentally responsible," she added. Gupta says the estate stands as a living symbol of sustainability, legacy, and democracy, inviting every citizen to walk its paths, learn from its trees, and become part of a greener, more inclusive India (Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by NDTV staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)
