In a major boost to tourism, the Jammu Division has introduced a Vistadome coach on the extended service. The coach features a glass roof and large panoramic windows, allowing passengers uninterrupted views of Kashmir’s mountains, rivers, valleys and tunnels along the route, as per ANI reports. Passenger amenities in the Jammu Division of Northern Railway have been expanded with the extension of special train No. 04688/04687 from Budgam to Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra. The train, which earlier terminated at Banihal, will now operate up to Katra, improving rail connectivity within the region.

J-K: Vistadome coach introduced on Budgam-Katra special train; Service extended to Vaishno Devi Shrine

The move is intended to boost travel prospects for residents of the place and augment access for tourists visiting Kashmir. For example, by transporting passengers to Katra, which is a major travel hub in Jammu and Kashmir, the railway has improved access to both the Kashmir Valley and the Jammu region.

Introduction of Vistadome coach

Vistadome coaches, intended to improve scenic rail travel, already exist on tourist routes such as the Konkan Railway and Darjeeling Himalayan Railway. Their deployment within Kashmir will represent a new kind of improvement in terms of sightseeing possibilities, as there has never been a Vistadome coach in the Valley.

The Kashmir rail route traverses through mountain ranges, rivers, valleys, and numerous tunnels, thus making it one of the most scenic train routes in the country. The Vistadome coach allows the train passengers a more direct exposure to the views of the route, thus turning the train ride into a sightseeing experience.Read more: European Commission unveils first-ever EU Visa Strategy: What it means and how it could affect travel

Focus on connectivity

According to Principal Chief Commercial Manager of Northern Railway, Parveen Panday, the initiative aligns with Indian Railways’ service-oriented approach. Speaking to ANI, Panday said the extension is intended to provide better connectivity for local residents, particularly in areas where road access is limited. He stated that Indian Railways operates with a principle of service and that the extended train service will enable people to connect between stations more easily. He also noted that several stations in the region face challenges in road connectivity, and the rail link offers a dependable alternative. Panday further said that the move is expected to boost tourism in the region. The improved connectivity and addition of the Vistadome coach stand to greatly enhance the travel experience for visitors.Read more: Guess the place: There are no traffic lights in this capital city

Rail operations during snowfall

Asserting the need for railway infrastructure in the region, Panday referred to past winters when heavy snowfall led to disruptions in connectivity in Kashmir. He said that during such periods, access to the Valley was affected and movement of goods and passengers became difficult. However, he noted that recently, rail services have ensured the transportation of both passengers and a substantial quantity of goods to the region. This, he indicated, demonstrates the growing reliability and resilience of railway operations in Jammu and Kashmir.

Strengthening the travel experience

The extension of train No. 04688/04687 to Katra and the introduction of the Vistadome coach together represent a combined effort to strengthen regional connectivity and improve passenger amenities. The additional advantage for the residents is the facility of a more direct and convenient rail link, and for the tourist, especially going towards Kashmir or the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi shrine, it gives the advantage of another mode of transportation but in a better and more pleasant way. Now, with the Vistadome coach attached to the train, the passengers can witness the picturesque views of the Kashmir Valley, and the journey itself would be a vital part of the tourism experience. It may be perceived that the development represents the railways taking an important step towards developing passenger facilities within the Jammu Division, as well as reinforcing its position within the region.

teluguabbayikanth1/Instagram

For years, an ancient stepwell in Andhra Pradesh’s Peapully Mandal lay buried under layers of garbage. What was once an important water structure had slowly turned into a dumping ground, choked with plastic waste, discarded food wrappers, coconut shells, turmeric sachets, leaf plates, and flower garlands from temple offerings.The gradual erosion of the heritage site might have gone unseen, had it not been for the social influencer Abbayi Kanth. Frustrated by the state of the old well, Abbayi decided to create a video, not just pointing out the filth, but also pointing out the erosion of a historical site. His appeal worked.Within days, over 300 volunteers came forward under the banner of the Poorva Sampada Rakshaka Sena, an organization whose core activity is heritage protection. What followed was not a symbolic clean-up, but a coordinated restoration effort. People turned up with gloves, tools, and they climbed into the stepwell, clearing out heaps of waste and debris that had accumulated over the years.

Telugu Abbayi Kanth/ Instagram

Teams worked in shifts, ensuring the cleaning was not confined to a single day. Plastic and organic waste were removed systematically. The stone steps, once hidden beneath dirt and refuse, gradually began to reappear. Videos circulating online showed villagers and youth groups washing the steps with water, carefully restoring the structure’s original form.For many in the Nandyal district, the stepwell had long been part of the landscape but not part of daily concern. With the passage of time, neglect had normalised its condition. The revival effort changed that narrative. Local residents, first-time volunteers, and youth groups were seen working alongside Kanth, united by a shared purpose: to reclaim a piece of their history.Read more: Guess the place: There are no traffic lights in this capital cityWhat stands out in this initiative is that it was driven not by official directives, but by community will. The restoration was a citizen-led movement, proving how quickly collective action can reshape neglected spaces when people decide something matters.The work did not end with the removal of garbage. To ensure the stepwell does not slip back into neglect, organisers have begun spreading awareness among locals and visitors. Community engagement drives are being conducted to emphasise responsible waste disposal and respect for heritage spaces. Signage is being introduced around the site to remind people that preservation is a shared duty. The transformation has drawn widespread attention on social media, where many users praised the volunteers for their efforts. Comments described the group as “unsung heroes” and celebrated the initiative as a hopeful example of community spirit. The story quickly went viral, striking a chord with those who see heritage conservation as a collective responsibility rather than a task reserved for authorities.Read more: European Commission unveils first-ever EU Visa Strategy: What it means and how it could affect travelThese step wells have historically provided essential water supplies and community meeting places in many areas of India. Additionally, these buildings symbolize ingenuity and continuity in Indian culture. Therefore, the degradation of these wells is not only physical but also symbolic.A renewed Peapully stepwell is also a reminder that conservation may begin with awareness. The once disappearing structure, covered and buried under waste, is now visible again, not just as a renewed structure, but as a sign of what can actually happen when people unite.

The first-ever EU Visa Strategy has been adopted by the European Commission, outlining a long-term plan for modernizing the visa policy, enhancing security, and making the European Union more competitive in the global arena. As per the press release, dated January 29, 2026, the strategy has been adopted to address heightened global mobility, instability in some regions, and growing geopolitical pressures worldwide. It has further aimed at making the region safer, more prosperous, more globally prominent, and more efficient in managing travel to the union. For more clarity, check this official page. Alongside the strategy, the Commission has also adopted a recommendation on attracting talent for innovation, focused on making the EU more appealing to highly skilled professionals, students, researchers and start-up founders.

Three pillars of the new Visa Strategy

Strengthening EU security

Security forms the first pillar of the new framework. The commission proposes several measures to reinforce the EU’s visa system as a frontline security tool. Among them is a modernised system for granting visa-free status to partner countries, with a new assessment framework expected in 2026. The existing visa-free mode stands to face a reformed Visa Suspension Mechanism to monitor its possible abuse.The strategy also foresees stronger visa leverage tools. Through a planned revision of the Visa Code in 2026, the EU could apply targeted visa measures in cases of no-cooperation on return and readmission of irregular migrants. Additional ad hoc measures may also be introduced to incentivise cooperation on security and migration management. The Commission has further indicated that restrictive visa measures could be considered in response to hostile actions by third countries that undermine EU security. To combat fraud, new harmonised definitions and sanctions related to travel document fraud are also planned at EU level.Read more: Guess the place: There are no traffic lights in this capital city

Boosting prosperity and competitiveness

The Schengen area remains one of the world’s most visited regions, and travel plays a key role in Europe’s economy. The strategy introduces measures intended to make legitimate travel smoother while supporting economic growth. A major shift will be the expansion of digital procedures. The EU’s European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS), expected to be operational from late 2026, will automate pre-departure checks for visa-free travellers. At the same time, visa-required applicants will be able to complete the entire application process online under new digital visa procedures. The strategy also proposes longer-validity multiple-entry visas for trusted travellers and the creation of a common list of verified companies to streamline processes for business visitors. In addition, the commission plans to explore amendments to EU rules affecting students, researchers and highly skilled workers, as well as a potential legal framework tailored to start-up founders and innovative entrepreneurs. European Legal Gateway Offices may offer assistance to non-EU individuals and employers in the process of applying for visas. Additional funds will be available for visa applications from highly qualified individuals.Read more: Hampi Utsav 2026: What can visitors expect at the grand celebration in the UNESCO World Heritage Site?

Modern visa tools and interoperable systems

With millions entering the Schengen area annually on short-stay visas or through visa-free regimes, efficient border management is a priority. The EU is rolling out advanced digital tools to modernise border and visa systems. By 2028, EU IT systems are expected to become interoperable, enabling authorities to query multiple databases simultaneously through a single search. This is intended to enhance information-sharing and reduce the risk of visa abuse while facilitating legitimate travel.

Attracting global talent

Alongside the Visa Strategy, the Commission’s Recommendation on attracting talent outlines steps for member states to simplify and speed up long-stay visa and residence permit procedures.Proposed improvements include more digitised application processes, reduced documentation requirements, shorter processing times and smoother transitions from study or research to employment or entrepreneurship within the EU. The Recommendation also encourages improved intra-EU mobility and stronger coordination between national authorities, universities and research institutions. It is worth mentioning that these measures fit into a wider European policy, as is seen in the “Choose Europe” initiative, together with the creation of a Union of Skills, as well as the strategy of the European Union for Startup and Scaleup, with a view to increasing Europe’s competitiveness.

The nationwide Bharat Band (12 February, 2026) is being observed across India, called by more than 10 central trade unions and supported by farmers’ organisations. It is a protest against government policies, including newly introduced laws. The strike, scheduled from early morning 6 AM to evening 6 PM, has already started to affect public life and transportation across several states. Bharat Bandh has hit hard states like Odisha, Assam, Kerala, and West Bengal, among others. Significant disruptions are expected across schools, banks, roads and other departments.State-wise effect of Bharat Bandh on transport and travelIn Odisha: In many regions including Odisha, local authorities have issued advisories about potential road blockades and slow traffic. In Odisha, police have increased deployment on major routes including National Highway 16. Travellers have been advised to expect delays. Odisha is experiencing near total shutdown. As per local news reports, passengers have been seen stranded at Cuttack’s Netaji Bus Terminal. Protestors in Bhuvaneshwar have blocked the National Highway near Jaydev Vihar. Long queues of vehicles are seen stranded on the flyover.In Assam: Assam too is highly disturbed with the bandh effect. The public transport services may remain affected. Travellers are advised to avoid travel plans today.In Kerala: Reports suggest a high turnout of protestors blocking transport yards and main roads. As per latest updates, travel and transportation is completely paralysed in the state. A video shared on X by PTI shows shops and stores in Malappuram being shut down in support of the nation-wide Bharat Bandh against.In Karnataka (Bengaluru): Although authorities have not officially declared closures, Karnataka is also in disruption because of the protest. Banks, local transport, buses and offices are affected in Bengaluru, Mysuru and Mangaluru. In addition to these states, West Bengal, Punjab, will also be hotspots for protest. Because of it, travel will be disrupted.In many cities, public transport services, including state buses, autos, and taxis, may operate on limited schedules or face delays. Travellers dependent on buses or taxis are advised to check real-time service updates.However, all essential services including ambulance, fire brigade, and utility services will remain operative amid bandh across the country. Airports and flight operations are largely unaffected. Railway services are expected to run as scheduled.Advisory for TravellersPlan your route in advance Allow extra travel timeAvoid protest areas Use official traffic updates from state police The Bharat Bandh on 12 February 2026 has created notable disruptions in daily mobility, especially in states like Odisha, Assam, Kerala, and parts of Karnataka.

Mrunal Thakur and Rakul Preet Singh were spotted in the same emerald green Juhi Bengani waistcoat and skirt set, sparking a fashion debate. Mrunal opted for a polished, red-carpet ready look with elegant heels and minimal accessories. Rakul, however, embraced a bolder, street-style vibe with combat boots and statement jewelry, showcasing two distinct interpretations of the designer ensemble.

When two celebs pick the same outfit, the internet is bound to split into teams, and that’s exactly what happened when Mrunal Thakur and Rakul Preet Singh stepped out in the same waistcoat-and-skirt set by designer Juhi Bengani. Same co-ord, totally different energy. One leaned glam and polished, the other went bold and edgy. Naturally, fans are arguing over who pulled it off better. But, but… Mrunal wore it first!

Mrunal Thakur: Clean glam with a red-carpet edge

Mrunal debuted the look at the Maa premiere in June 2025, and she went full power-dressing mode. The emerald green sleeveless waistcoat paired with the matching skirt and a minimal bralette gave the outfit a sharp, modern silhouette without feeling overdone. The colour popped beautifully on her and brought a fresh glow to the red carpet.

Her styling choices kept things sleek and elegant – ankle-strap heels, clean makeup, and fuss-free hair. Nothing competed with the outfit; everything just supported it. The overall vibe? Confident, classy, and camera-read

y. It’s the kind of look that works perfectly for premieres and formal events where you want to make a statement without shouting for attention.

Rakul Preet Singh: Cool-girl energy with a street-style twist

Rakul took the same Juhi Bengani set recently, and gave it a totally different spin. Instead of playing it safe, she amped up the attitude with combat-style boots and a chunky gold necklace. The result felt more relaxed, more playful, and a lot more street-style friendly.Her version which was picked up much later after Mrual wore it, made the co-ord look less “red carpet” and more “cool off-duty celeb who still nails fashion.” The boots, in particular, changed the whole mood of the outfit – suddenly, the tailored set felt rebellious and current. It’s a styling move that fashion risk-takers will appreciate.

So, who wore it better?

Honestly? It comes down to what you’re into.

Imagining a place with no traffic lights can be a tough thing for anybody who lives in metro cities. But as they say, there are exceptions. And if you haven’t guessed it yet, it’s the capital of Bhutan, Thimphu, which is famously known for operating without a single functioning traffic light. Instead of automated signals, traffic at the city’s busiest intersections is directed manually by uniformed police officers standing inside decorative white booths, using hand gestures with almost choreographed precision.

Why no traffic lights?

A distinctive feature of Thimphu’s road network is that it is one of only two national capitals in the world without traffic lights. Although traffic signals were once installed, they were removed before becoming operational. Instead, traffic is manually managed during key intersections by uniformed police officers, the precise and choreographed movements of whom have become a hallmark of the city. In addition, public bus services are available throughout the day, with proposals to include tram services in the near future.

According to information from the Royal Bhutan Police, traffic management in Thimphu city is carried out under manual control to ensure smooth flow and vigilant driving. The system reflects Bhutan’s preference for a more human-centred approach to governance and urban management. In fact, when traffic lights were briefly installed in Thimphu in the late 1990s, public reaction was not enthusiastic. Residents reportedly found them impersonal and unnecessary. The signals were soon removed, and the city returned to its tradition of police-directed intersections, a system that continues today. Read more: H-1B visa under threat: US lawmaker introduces EXILE Act; what it means for Indian applicants

A capital that moves at its own pace

Thimphu is not a sprawling megacity. With a relatively small population compared to other capitals in Asia, the traffic flow is still reasonable. Even the lack of traffic lights has ceased to be a problem and has come to be seen as a cultural statement, which is in harmony with the country’s overall philosophy of Gross National Happiness. At major junctions such as Norzin Lam, visitors often stop to watch the traffic police in action. Dressed in crisp uniforms and white gloves, officers direct vehicles, pedestrians and turning cars through carefully timed gestures. It feels less like a rush-hour scramble and more like a synchronised performance. Read more: The island that is so full of venomous snakes that humans can barely visit

What travellers should know

For visitors, Thimphu is straightforward. Drivers are accustomed to manual traffic control, and road discipline is generally strong. Pedestrians should wait for clear signals from officers before crossing, especially at busy intersections. The lack of traffic lights does not mean a lack of regulation. Bhutan enforces traffic laws strictly, and the police presence ensures compliance. In an increasingly automated world, Thimphu stands out as one of the remarkable exceptions, as a capital city in which humans still give instructions, as opposed to computers.

Ancient wisdom suggests prioritizing a child’s spirit of reverence over material wealth. This inner discipline, encompassing respect for people, life, and limits, fosters humility and responsibility. Unlike riches, reverence guides choices, teaches patience through failure, and builds character that truly lasts a lifetime, offering a more profound inheritance.

When Plato says parents should give children “the spirit of reverence” instead of riches, he points to something deeper than money. He talks about values, respect, and inner discipline. These are things children carry for life, even when comfort, status, or money change. In a world that often measures success by wealth, this quote gently asks parents to pause and rethink priorities.

What Plato really meant by “reverence”

Reverence does not mean fear or blind obedience. It means respect, for people, for life, for learning, and for limits. A child with reverence learns that not everything exists to be used or won. They learn to value effort, time, and relationships. This mindset builds humility and responsibility, two qualities money alone can never buy.

Why riches alone fall short

Wealth can provide ease, but it cannot guide choices. Children who grow up with only material comfort may struggle when things do not go their way. Reverence teaches patience during failure and gratitude during success. It helps children understand that worth is not tied to possessions, but to actions and character.

How daily behaviour teaches more than lectures

Children rarely learn values from long talks. They learn from small, repeated moments. When parents speak respectfully to elders, apologise when wrong, or show care for workers and helpers, children notice. These quiet actions send a stronger message than rules written on paper. Reverence grows when it is lived, not preached.

Allowing children to see limits and consequences

Shielding children from every difficulty may feel loving, but it can weaken respect for effort and boundaries. Letting children face fair consequences builds reverence for rules and choices. It teaches that actions matter and that responsibility is not punishment, but guidance for growth.

Teaching respect for things that cannot be bought

Nature, time, and human emotions have no price tag. When parents encourage care for books, plants, or shared spaces, children learn respect beyond ownership. Simple habits like waiting patiently, listening fully, or finishing what was started quietly shape inner discipline.

Passing values that last beyond childhood

Money can be spent, lost, or inherited without effort. Reverence stays active throughout life. It helps children become adults who value learning, treat others with dignity, and make thoughtful decisions. This is the kind of inheritance that supports them long after childhood ends.Disclaimer: This article is meant for general reflection and parenting insight. It does not replace professional advice or individual guidance. Parenting approaches may vary based on family values, culture, and personal circumstances.

Royal names carry quiet strength. They feel timeless, thoughtful, and rooted in history. For many Indian parents, a “royal” name is not about palaces or crowns. It is about dignity, grace, and a sense of calm confidence. This list brings together ten such names. They sound Indian, feel modern, and avoid the names heard in every classroom. Each one has depth, cultural grounding, and a gentle elegance that can age well from childhood to adulthood.

The terrace design combines wooden furniture, greenery, and calming tones to create a peaceful retreat within the bustling city. Renovated ceiling panelling and coordinated wall finishes further enhance the relaxed yet refined ambience. Integrating nature with comfortable seating is a timeless strategy for turning outdoor zones into meaningful extensions of indoor living.

Mannat is more than a celebrity landmark, it is a study in layered luxury, emotional storytelling, and design longevity. From personalised study rooms to marble-rich bathrooms and leisure-centric amenities, the residence demonstrates how thoughtful interiors can merge comfort with grandeur. For homeowners and designers alike, the true takeaway from Mannat lies not in extravagance but in intention: using materials, memories, and spatial planning to create a home that feels both magnificent and deeply personal.

Image Credit: Instagram/ Miss Malini