India is set to revive the sacred Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, five years after its suspension, with the Ministry of External Affairs announcing on Saturday, April 26, that applications are now open for pilgrims.

The yatra, scheduled to run from June to August, will see 750 devotees participate, marking a significant step in resuming cross-border pilgrimage after a hiatus triggered by the COVID-19 pandemic and tensions along the Line of Actual Control following the 2020 Galwan clash.

The ministry outlined that the pilgrimage will be conducted in 15 batches: five groups of 50 pilgrims each will travel via Lipulekh Pass in Uttarakhand, while ten batches of 50 will journey through Nathu La Pass in Sikkim.

The entire registration process, fully digitized since 2015, will be managed through the website https://kmy.gov.in. A transparent, computer-based selection process, ensuring random and gender-balanced allocation, will determine the participants.

Discussions between Indian and Chinese officials on resuming the yatra have been underway since October 2024, facilitated during border agreement talks. Notably, the issue was raised at the 33rd meeting of the Working Mechanism for Coordination and Consultation (WMCC) on India-China border affairs on March 25, 2025.

Typically focused on defence and border management, the WMCC also addressed “early resumption of cross-border cooperation, including trans-border rivers and the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra,” according to a press statement, signaling a broader diplomatic effort to restore ties.

The Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, a revered spiritual journey, is coordinated by the Ministry of External Affairs in collaboration with the Ministry of Home Affairs, the Indo-Tibetan Border Police, and the governments of Delhi, Sikkim, and Uttarakhand, alongside state agencies like the Kumaon Mandal Vikas Nigam.

The pilgrimage follows two established routes: Lipulekh Pass in Uttarakhand, operational since 1981, and Nathu La Pass in Sikkim, introduced in 2015. As preparations gain momentum, the resumption of the yatra offers hope to countless devotees eager to undertake this sacred journey to the abode of Lord Shiva.

Digital content creator Misha Agarwal, admired for her relatable humor and authenticity, has tragically passed away just two days before her 25th birthday. Her family confirmed the heartbreaking news through an official statement shared on her Instagram account, seeking privacy as they cope with this profound loss.

Known for her unfiltered take on everyday life, Misha developed a strong and devoted following across social media platforms. Her content, filled with warmth, humor, and sincerity, resonated deeply with thousands who found comfort and laughter through her posts.

In their emotional statement, Misha’s family wrote:
“Misha Agrawal April 26, 2000 – April 24, 2025. It is with a heavy heart that we share the heartbreaking news of Misha Agrawal’s passing. Thank you all for the love and support you showed her and her work. We are still trying to come to terms with this immense loss. Please keep her in your thoughts and continue to carry her spirit in your hearts.”

The news of her sudden demise has left her fanbase and the larger creator community in mourning. Tributes have poured in from fellow content creators, fans, and followers, many of whom remembered her ability to brighten even the darkest days.

On social media, emotional comments flooded her posts. One user expressed confusion and sadness, saying, “Her sister posted this too, I’m totally confused, somebody please enlighten me,” while another wrote, “Ideally it’s her birthday today…. Please tell me is it something like she is reborn today… now that she’ll be 25 today… please… ritu you have said ‘don’t worry we’ll keep her alive in our hearts’ please tell us what is going on…”

Misha’s unique ability to spotlight the humor in everyday struggles, relationships, and adulthood endeared her to a diverse audience. Her presence was not just entertaining but also comforting, making her a cherished voice in the digital world.

Despite her untimely passing, Misha Agarwal leaves behind a legacy rich with laughter, sincerity, and human connection. In a digital space often craving genuine voices, her memory and impact will continue to live on through her work and the hearts she touched.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, during the 15th edition of the Rozgar Mela held virtually across 47 locations, distributed 51,236 appointment letters to newly recruited candidates in central government departments and organisations.

Addressing the young appointees, PM Modi congratulated them for securing permanent government positions and emphasised their crucial role in strengthening India’s economy, infrastructure, internal security, and welfare systems. He stated, “The more dedicated you are, the faster we progress towards a Viksit Bharat.”

Highlighting the importance of youth in national development, PM Modi remarked that countries where youth actively participate in growth see rapid progress. He pointed to India’s young population as a key driver behind the country’s advancements in technology and innovation.

Focus on innovation and self-employment

The Prime Minister underlined the success of government initiatives like Skill India, Startup India, and Digital India, noting their impact in opening platforms for innovation and entrepreneurship. He credited young Indians for leading the digital transformation through platforms like UPI, ONDC, and GeM.

PM Modi also touched upon the new Manufacturing Mission announced in the Budget 2025-26, aimed at boosting the ‘Make in India’ initiative and helping youth manufacture globally competitive products.

Growth across sectors and new opportunities

Citing record growth in sectors such as automobiles, footwear, and Khadi and cottage industries, PM Modi noted that the turnover for Khadi and cottage industries has crossed Rs 1.7 lakh crore. He also spoke about the expansion of inland water transport, where cargo movement through waterways grew from 18 million tonnes in 2014 to 145 million tonnes in 2025, and the number of national waterways increased from 5 to over 110.

Another highlight was PM Modi’s mention of the upcoming World Audio Visual and Entertainment Summit (WAVES 2025) in Mumbai, aimed at providing a platform for young content creators in India.

Inclusivity and future-focused initiatives

PM Modi praised the rising participation of women in India’s success story, referring to the recent UPSC results where women secured the top two ranks. Stressing the importance of inclusivity, he discussed future-focused initiatives around Artificial Intelligence (AI), with workshops planned to prepare the youth for emerging media and digital content industries.

He also encouraged the new appointees to participate in the ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’ initiative, dedicating a tree plantation to their mothers.

Concluding his address, the Prime Minister reaffirmed the collective goal of building a prosperous and developed India.

The appointees will join key ministries including Home Affairs, Railways, Labour and Employment, Revenue, and Higher Education. Since its launch in October 2022, the Rozgar Mela has facilitated the appointment of over 10 lakh individuals in government jobs.