Current Affairs 15th Jan to 15th Feb 2025
1. The Halda festival, a traditional celebration in the Lahaul-Spiti district
About the News : The Halda festival, a traditional celebration in the Lahaul-Spiti district, is being observed with great enthusiasm this month. Residents from the Gahar, Chandra, and Pattan valleys come together to celebrate this festival, which typically takes place in January. The festival includes singing, dancing, and age-old rituals, making it an important cultural event for the region.
Halda Festival : The Halda festival is unique to Lahaul-Spiti and is marked by the preparation of torches called Halda, made from pencil cedar branches. These torches are crafted based on the number of male members in each family and are then lit in homes, where villagers gather to perform rituals and celebrate together. The festival takes place in different valleys at slightly varying times, with Gahar valley’s date being decided by a lama, while in Pattan valley, it aligns with Magh Purnima (full moon).
Significance The festival holds deep cultural and spiritual importance for the people of Lahaul-Spiti. It is primarily celebrated to seek blessings from local deities for a prosperous harvest in the coming season and to ward off evil spirits from the village. It also serves as a means to bring the community together, strengthening social bonds.
About the Dance One of the key highlights of the festival is the Asur Dance, performed on the last day in Khangsar village of the Chandra valley. According to local folklore, this dance originated in ancient times when demons harmed human settlements because they worshipped only goddesses. To protect the village, four villagers from Tinan Khangsar donned masks and danced like monsters to scare away evil spirits. This ritual continues today and concludes with worship at the temple of Deity Nag Raj.
Why It Is Celebrated : The Halda festival is celebrated to ensure prosperity, a good harvest, and protection from negative energies. It reflects the deep-rooted traditions and beliefs of the people of Lahaul-Spiti, symbolizing unity, faith, and the connection between nature and spiritual well-being.
2. Vistadome train rake for the historic Kalka-Shimla rail route
About the News : Indian Railways (IR) has introduced a new Vistadome train rake for the historic Kalka-Shimla rail route. Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw shared a video showcasing the train, calling it a unique travel experience for visitors to Himachal Pradesh. Inspired by Switzerland’s Glacier Express, the new train aims to offer passengers an immersive journey through the scenic Himalayan landscape.
Highlights
· The Kalka-Shimla rail route, managed by Northern Railway’s Ambala Division, is a UNESCO World Heritage site.
· The 96 km stretch is famous for its stunning views, steep gradients, and over 800 bridges.
· The new Vistadome train features Linke Hofmann Busch (LHB) coaches, manufactured at the Rail Coach Factory in Kapurthala.
· A successful trial run has been conducted, and the train is expected to begin passenger service soon.
What Are Vistadome Coaches : Vistadome coaches are specially designed train coaches with large glass windows and transparent roofs, providing panoramic views of the surroundings. These coaches are inspired by European luxury trains and are meant to enhance sightseeing experiences for travelers.
Benefits of Vistadome Coaches
· Enhanced Tourism: Offers an unforgettable travel experience, attracting more visitors to Himachal Pradesh.
· Scenic Views: Large windows and glass roofs provide uninterrupted views of mountains, valleys, and forests.
· Comfort & Luxury: Modern interiors, comfortable seating, and improved travel amenities.
· Boost to Economy: Increased tourist footfall can contribute to local businesses and the tourism industry.
3. Gaddi dog
News: The Indian Council of Agricultural Research – National Bureau of Animal Genetic Resources (ICAR-NBAGR) has officially recognized the Gaddi dog, an indigenous breed from the Himalayas. This recognition aims to conserve the breed, which is at risk of extinction due to a declining nomadic lifestyle and dilution of the gene pool. The Gaddi dog, known for its loyalty and guarding abilities, plays a crucial role in protecting livestock from predators. This makes it the first recognized indigenous breed from the Himalayan region and the fourth registered in India.
Highlights
· ICAR-NBAGR has recognized the Gaddi dog along with nine other livestock breeds.
· The breed is native to the Himalayan region, mainly in Himachal Pradesh, Jammu & Kashmir, and Arunachal Pradesh.
· Gaddi dogs are known for their protective nature, guarding flocks from predators like snow leopards.
· The Himachal Pradesh Agricultural University, Palampur, has set up a conservation unit to promote the breed.
· The breed’s declining population, estimated to be less than 1,000, has raised concerns about its survival.
Who Gave the Title?
The recognition was granted by ICAR-NBAGR, a premier organization under the Indian Council of Agricultural Research. The initiative was supported by Chaudhary Sarwan Kumar Himachal Pradesh Agricultural University, Palampur, and the Animal Husbandry Department of Himachal Pradesh.
Features of the Gaddi Dog
· Medium stature with a muscular build and strong, arched neck for protection.
· Predominantly black with occasional white markings on feet, tail, or trunk.
· Tufted mane resembling a black lion.
· Litter size of 4-8 pups, with 8-12 whelpings in a lifetime.
· Highly intelligent, loyal, and known as an excellent guardian dog
About Gaddi Dog The Gaddi dog, also known as Bhote Kukur or Bhotia dog, is believed to have originated from the Tibetan Mastiff but differs in size and features. Spread across the Himalayan range from Jammu & Kashmir to Arunachal Pradesh, the breed has earned the nickname ‘Indian Panther Hound’ or ‘Indian Leopard Hound’ due to its remarkable ability to fend off predators. With official recognition now in place, conservation efforts are set to protect and promote this treasured Himalayan breed.
4. Eco-Sensitive Zones (ESZs)
News : The Government of India has designated areas around Shikari Devi Wildlife Sanctuary in Mandi district as Eco-Sensitive Zones (ESZs) to minimize the impact of urbanization and development on the surrounding protected regions. The ESZ covers 43 villages from the Nachan and Karsog Forest Divisions and has been notified under the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972. Authorities have restricted human activities except for agriculture within these zones to protect biodiversity and reduce human-wildlife conflict. A special Zonal Master Plan is being developed to guide future development while promoting sustainability.
Highlights
· Shikari Devi Wildlife Sanctuary (29.94 sq. km) was established in 1962 for wildlife conservation.
· 43 villages in Nachan and Karsog Forest Divisions designated as Eco-Sensitive Zones (ESZs).
· The ESZ extends from 50 meters to 2 km around the sanctuary.
· A Zonal Master Plan is being developed to regulate activities within the ESZ.
· Sustainable activities like organic farming and rainwater harvesting will be allowed.
· A committee chaired by the Chief Conservator of Forests (CCF) of Mandi is overseeing the implementation.
About Shikari Devi Wildlife Sanctuary
Shikari Devi Wildlife Sanctuary is a protected forest area located in Mandi district, Himachal Pradesh. Spanning 29.94 sq km, the sanctuary was established in 1962 to conserve the region’s rich biodiversity and protect local wildlife species. It is named after the Shikari Devi Temple, a revered shrine situated at an altitude of 3,350 meters.
Flora and Fauna
The sanctuary is home to a variety of flora and fauna, including:
· Mammals: Himalayan black bear, barking deer, leopard, goral, and langur.
· Birds: Monal pheasant (Himachal’s state bird), koklass pheasant, and cheer pheasant.
· Vegetation: The sanctuary features dense deodar, oak, and rhododendron forests, along with alpine meadows at higher altitudes.
What are Eco-Sensitive Zones (ESZs)?
Eco-Sensitive Zones are buffer areas around wildlife sanctuaries and national parks. These zones aim to minimize human impact on protected ecosystems while allowing controlled activities. ESZs help in biodiversity conservation, reducing human-wildlife conflict, and ensuring sustainable development around forests and wildlife habitats.
Benefits of Eco-Sensitive Zones
1. Wildlife Conservation: Protects endangered species and their natural habitats.
2. Reduces Deforestation: Limits land-use changes that harm ecosystems.
3. Prevents Human-Wildlife Conflict: Ensures controlled human activity to minimize conflicts.
4. Promotes Sustainable Development: Encourages eco-friendly practices like organic farming.
5. Preserves Water Resources: Protects rivers and water bodies from pollution.
6. Enhances Ecotourism: Creates opportunities for regulated nature-based tourism.
Restrictions Imposed in ESZs : The following activities are prohibited in the designated ESZs:
· Commercial Mining and quarrying.
· Deforestation and land-use changes.
· Establishing polluting industries or large-scale factories.
· Large hydropower projects impacting local ecology.
· Construction of large hotels and resorts.
However, sustainable practices such as organic farming, responsible tourism, and rainwater harvesting will be allowed under strict environmental guidelines.
A Step Towards Sustainable Development
The ESZ designation around Shikari Devi Wildlife Sanctuary ensures a balance between conservation and community welfare. This initiative not only protects Himachal Pradesh’s rich biodiversity but also promotes eco-friendly livelihoods for local communities. By implementing these regulations, the state is taking a strong step towards sustainable environmental management while preserving its natural heritage for future generations.
5. Padid Festival: A Celebration of Ancestral Reverence in Pangi Valley
About the News The remote and culturally rich Pangi Valley in Himachal Pradesh recently celebrated the Padid Festival, a traditional event dedicated to honoring ancestors. Held on the first lunar day following Amavasya, this centuries-old festival is a time of devotion, gratitude, and community bonding. Families come together to perform rituals, seek blessings, and celebrate their spiritual and agricultural heritage.
About Padid Festival : Padid is an ancestral festival that integrates religious, spiritual, and agrarian customs. It is marked by ritualistic offerings to the Sun God and ancestors, prayers for family well-being, and community gatherings. The festival emphasizes the importance of familial ties, with younger members seeking blessings from elders and exchanging the symbolic Jevra flowers.
The Jevra flowers are cultivated through a sacred Khahul ritual, where wheat or maize grains are mixed with soil and livestock manure. The sprouting of these grains within 10-12 days is believed to predict agricultural prosperity for the coming year.
How Padid is Celebrated
1. Jukaru Festival (Sill) Sets the Stage:
o Held the night before Padid, the Jukaru festival is dedicated to Rajawali Devta.
o Families gather to offer prayers and invoke blessings for peace and protection.
o The head of the household makes offerings to the Sun God and ancestors.
2. Rituals and Community Celebrations:
o The day begins with offerings to the Sun God and blessings from elders.
o Jevra flowers are exchanged, and special festive meals including ghee mande, meat, and local liquor are prepared.
o People visit the eldest members of their community, presenting Jevra flowers and seeking blessings.
3. Padid in Killar’s Shiva Temple:
o In Killar, the festival begins at 2 AM, with devotees from Mahaliyat village offering prayers at the Shiva Temple.
o Devotees seek blessings from Lord Shiva and Nag Devta.
o Historically, people from Dharwas and Kirayuni villages participated, but heavy snowfall once prevented their journey, leading to the custom being continued by Killar residents alone.
Legends and Significance
· Ancestral Reverence: The Padid Festival is considered as spiritually significant as the Shraddha ceremony. It is believed that making offerings on this day ensures the goodwill and protection of forefathers.
· Agricultural Connection: Padid also marks fertility and abundance, symbolizing the prosperity of the coming harvest season. Offerings of wheat, barley, and maize reflect the deep connection between spirituality and farming traditions.
Conclusion
Padid is not just a religious event but also a celebration of heritage, family, and agrarian life in Pangi Valley. By blending spiritual beliefs, ancestral worship, and agricultural traditions, the festival strengthens community ties and preserves the cultural legacy of the region.
6. Eco-Friendly Road Construction in Himachal Pradesh
About the News
Himachal Pradesh has taken a pioneering step in sustainable road construction by implementing the Full Depth Reclamation (FDR) technology in the Shillai Assembly constituency of Sirmaur district. The Public Works Department (PWD) has started constructing a 28 km road from Kaffota to Jong using this advanced method. A successful 100-metre trial has already been conducted in Kaffota.
Highlights
· First road in Himachal Pradesh using FDR technology.
· 28 km stretch from Kaffota to Jong in Sirmaur’s Trans-Giri region.
· FDR eliminates the use of charcoal and gravel, making the process eco-friendly.
· Faster, cost-effective, and more durable compared to traditional road construction methods.
· If successful, it could be implemented statewide.
What is FDR Technology?
Full Depth Reclamation (FDR) is a road construction technique that recycles existing road material by mixing it with cement and special chemicals to create a strong base for the new road. Instead of using fresh gravel or charcoal, the old road surface is reprocessed, reducing resource consumption and environmental impact.
How It Works?
1. The existing road surface is pulverized and mixed with stabilizing agents like cement.
2. The mixture is compacted to form a strong base layer.
3. A final smooth surface is laid over it, creating a more durable and resilient road.
Benefits of FDR Technology
✅ Eco-Friendly: Reduces the use of natural resources (charcoal, gravel), lowering carbon emissions.
✅ Cost-Effective: Reduces overall construction costs by recycling existing materials.
✅ Faster Construction: Roads can be built more quickly than traditional methods.
✅ Stronger and More Durable: Withstands harsh weather conditions and reduces wear-and-tear.
✅ Sustainable Development: Supports green infrastructure initiatives in Himachal Pradesh.
Challenges of FDR Technology
Ø Initial Investment: Requires specialized machinery and trained personnel.
Ø Limited Awareness: Needs technical training for widespread adoption.
Ø Soil Compatibility Issues: Effectiveness depends on local soil conditions and road composition.
Conclusion
The Kaffota-Jong road project is a major step towards sustainable infrastructure in Himachal Pradesh. If successful, FDR technology could be widely adopted, transforming road construction across the state while preserving its natural beauty and resources.
7. Padma Shri Award for ‘Apple Man’ of Himachal
About the News
Hariman Sharma, known as the ‘Apple Man’ of Himachal Pradesh, has been conferred with the Padma Shri award for his groundbreaking work in apple cultivation in lower-altitude regions. Despite skepticism, he successfully developed a disease-resistant apple variety that thrives at just 1,800 ft above sea level, challenging the long-held belief that apples require colder climates. His innovative approach has not only transformed apple farming in warmer regions but has also gained national and international recognition.
Who is the ‘Apple Man’ of Himachal?
Hariman Sharma hails from Paniyala village, Ghumarwin, Bilaspur district, and started his journey in 1990 with a small nursery. By 1999, he began experimenting with apple cultivation in lower Himachal, despite scientific discouragement. His breakthrough came in 2007, when his apple trees successfully bore fruit in a warmer climate, proving his theory right.
His Contributions
Ø Developed HRMN-99 Apple Variety: A heat-resistant apple variety that can withstand temperatures up to 46°C, making it viable for lower and warmer regions.
Ø Global Recognition: His apple plants are now grown in 27 states of India and have been exported to Nepal, Bangladesh, Germany, and South Africa.
Ø Mass Production: He dispatches over 3.5 lakh apple saplings annually to meet increasing demand.
Ø Diversification in Horticulture: Apart from apples, he also cultivates mango, avocado, and litchi.
Ø Multiple Awards: Recipient of 15 national and 10 state awards for his contributions to horticulture.
Ø Message to Farmers: Encourages farmers to explore agriculture and horticulture as a sustainable livelihood, emphasizing that early-harvested apples in lower regions can yield higher income compared to high-altitude varieties.
His pioneering work has redefined apple cultivation, making it accessible to warmer regions and contributing significantly to the agriculture sector’s growth.
8. Gochi Festival Celebrated with Joy in Lahaul’s Gahar Valley
About the News
The Gochi Festival, a traditional celebration of childbirth, was recently observed with great enthusiasm in the Gahar Valley of Lahaul and Spiti district. The event saw participation from multiple villages, including Keylong, Billing, Gawazang, Kardang, Lapchang, Chheling, and Peukar. Amidst picturesque snowfall, the festival brought together villagers for rituals, archery games, music, and feasting.
What is Gochi Festival?
Gochi, also called Gothsi, is a festival unique to Bhaga Valley, celebrated in February to honor the birth of sons in the preceding year. In some villages, such as Peukar, the festival is observed for both sons and daughters. The main highlight of the festival is the worship of a Shivalinga made from sattu (roasted barley flour), known as Yulla Devta in the local dialect.
How is it Celebrated?
· Traditional Rituals: A sattu dough is placed on a large plate and carried by four men to the village deity’s shrine, often a stone idol, tree, or sacred bush.
· Procession: A young girl, dressed in traditional attire and adorned with ornaments, carries a pot of chhang (local alcoholic drink) and leads the procession. She is followed by two men carrying pencil cedar sticks and leaves wrapped in lambskin.
· Village Priest (Labdagpa) Worship: The priest performs rituals using a bow and arrow, after which the sattu dough is broken and scattered to appease the gods.
· Archery Game: Villagers participate in an archery contest, with the belief that the number of arrows hitting the target predicts the number of sons the village will have that year.
· Singing and Dancing: Celebrations continue with traditional songs, dances, and feasts. Families and friends visit homes where a male child was born, enjoying food and drinks together.
Significance of the Festival
Religious and Cultural Tradition: The festival strengthens devotion to local deities, particularly Yulla Devta.
Symbol of Fertility and Prosperity: The archery ritual is believed to predict the village’s future male births and ensure prosperity.
Community Bonding: Brings families and villagers together, fostering a sense of unity and celebration.
Agricultural Connection: The use of sattu (barley flour) signifies the importance of agriculture in Lahaul’s culture.
Gender Inclusion: Some villages, like Peukar, have expanded the festival to include celebration of daughters’ births, marking a shift towards gender equality.
The Gochi Festival remains a vibrant and integral part of Lahaul’s cultural heritage, blending spirituality, tradition, and social unity in a grand celebration of new life.
9. Scrap SADA, establish civic body for Bir-Billing, demand panchayats
About the News : Residents of four panchayats—Bir, Chogan, Keyori, and Gunehar—have urged Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu to replace the Special Area Development Authority (SADA) with a Municipal Council for Bir-Billing. They argue that SADA has failed to address the area’s developmental needs.
Concerns of the People
1. Alleged Mismanagement of Funds
· Residents claim that only 10% of allocated funds are spent on Bir-Billing, while the rest is diverted to the state exchequer.
2. Poor Infrastructure and Basic Amenities
· Garbage disposal, drinking water supply, and drainage systems are neglected.
· Locals face difficulties in getting approvals even for minor constructions like cow sheds.
3. Long-Standing Discontent with SADA
· SADA has been in place for 15 years but has failed to meet expectations.
· People demand its scrapping due to inefficiency in governance.
4. Opposition to Jurisdiction Expansion
· Recent notification extending SADA’s control to more villages is deemed illegal as panchayats were not consulted.
Special Area Development Authority (SADA) in Himachal Pradesh
Why it is?
The Special Area Development Authority (SADA) is established to develop specific areas in the interest of public welfare. If a town, township, or any region is designated as a special area in the regional plan or if the State Government finds it necessary for planned development, it can declare such an area as a “Special Area.” The authority is responsible for planned urban growth, infrastructure development, and municipal management in such areas.
Where it is?
SADA operates in designated “Special Areas” within Himachal Pradesh. These areas are notified by the State Government based on their importance for regional planning and urban development.
Composition
· Chairman: Appointed by the State Government.
· Other Members: The government determines the number and appointment of members as required.
· Vice-Chairman/Chief Executive Officer (CEO): If needed, the government may appoint a Vice-Chairman and/or a full-time Chief Executive Officer (CEO) to manage the authority.
· Incorporation: SADA functions as a corporate body with perpetual succession and a common seal. It can acquire, hold, and dispose of property, enter contracts, and take legal action.
Functions
· Preparing development plans for the special area.
· Implementing the approved development plan.
· Acquiring, managing, and disposing of land for planned development.
· Carrying out construction activities and providing utilities like water, electricity, and drainage.
· Managing municipal services similar to municipal councils.
· Levying development charges, infrastructure fees, and maintenance charges.
· Raising funds through government grants, loans, and other sources.
Powers
· Requesting the State Government to acquire land under the Right to Fair Compensation and Transparency in Land Acquisition Act, 2013.
· Exercising planning powers similar to the Director of Town and Country Planning (except in specific cases).
· Managing municipal administration similar to municipal councils
People often oppose the establishment of a Special Area Development Authority (SADA) for several reasons, including concerns over governance, land rights, and financial implications. Here are some of the main reasons for opposition:
1. Threat to Local Autonomy
· Many residents and local elected bodies (like panchayats or municipal councils) feel that SADA takes away their authority.
· Decisions about land use, construction, and development are often made by appointed officials rather than local representatives, reducing people’s say in governance.
2. Land Acquisition Fears
· People fear that their land may be taken away for development projects without fair compensation.
· The government can acquire land under various legal provisions, which may displace farmers, small landowners, and indigenous communities.
3. Increased Regulation & Bureaucracy
· Once an area comes under SADA, development regulations become stricter.
· Obtaining construction permits, business licenses, or land-use approvals may become more difficult, leading to delays and additional costs.
4. Additional Financial Burden
· SADA has the power to levy development charges, maintenance fees, and taxes, increasing the financial burden on residents.
· People fear that these charges will rise over time without significant improvements in infrastructure or services.