News

Skyview By Empyrean Leads The Way In Sustainable Luxury

Skyview by Empyrean at Jammu’s Patnitop Hill Station sets a new benchmark in sustainable luxury, blending eco-friendly practices with a premium travel experience. In the scenic town of Patnitop, nestled in the Jammu region’s serene Pir Panjal range, Skyview by Empyrean stands as a testament to how tourism can coexist with environmental sustainability. As India’s first Responsible Tourism Society of India (RTSOI) certified sustainable tourism destination, Skyview by Empyrean has adopted and promoted eco-friendly practices across its stunning 22-acre property. From reducing carbon footprints to preserving local craftsmanship, this mountain harbor is redefining what it means to travel responsibly while offering a luxurious escape. The need for sustainable tourism has never been greater, as global travelers become more aware of their environmental impact. Skyview by Empyrean has answered this call, not only by becoming a leader in sustainable tourism but also by setting a new benchmark for responsible travel in India. Reducing Carbon Footprint with the Green Gondola Patnitop’s Skyview by Empyrean has made significant strides in reducing the carbon footprint in the region. One of its most innovative initiatives is the introduction of a green gondola service that connects the Sanget Valley to Patnitop. The gondola reduces the travel distance by 35 kilometers, transforming a 45-minute drive into a scenic 10-13 minute journey through the air. This net-zero ropeway, spanning 2.8 kilometers over the Shivalik range of the Himalayas, has dramatically cut down air and noise pollution while preserving the region’s natural landscape. Remarkably, the construction process did not involve cutting down a single tree. The towers of the ropeway were elevated to ensure the local flora and fauna remained undisturbed, showing Skyview by Empyrean’s commitment to protecting nature. Luxury Meets Sustainability: A Premier Mountain Harbor Skyview by Empyrean sets a high standard for how luxury and sustainability can coexist. With panoramic views of the Pir Panjal range, meadows stretching out under the open sky, and verdant forests surrounding the property, the resort offers guests an unparalleled luxury experience. However, this opulence is built on a foundation of sustainability. Everything from the architecture to the transportation methods, the food to the shopping experience, has been designed with the environment and community in mind. Skyview by Empyrean not only meets the high standards of luxury but also satisfies the growing demand among travelers for responsible tourism options. The resort is committed to creating a harmonious balance between the natural world and human comfort, making it an exemplary model for sustainable tourism destinations worldwide. Guests can indulge in the finest amenities and services while knowing that their stay supports eco-friendly practices and local communities. Skyview by Empyrean represents the future of travel—where luxury is not sacrificed for sustainability but rather enhanced by it. By pioneering sustainable tourism practices in Patnitop and setting a new benchmark for green travel in India, this hill station retreat invites travelers to be a part of something bigger: a movement toward responsible, eco-conscious tourism. Whether it’s riding the green gondola, enjoying a meal made with locally sourced ingredients, or purchasing handmade goods from Jammu artisans, every aspect of a stay at Skyview by Empyrean reinforces the resort’s commitment to a greener future. The destination offers a tangible way for guests to contribute to sustainability while enjoying an unforgettable luxury vacation. So, the next time you’re in Patnitop, make sure to visit Skyview by Empyrean and experience the best in sustainable luxury firsthand. This 22-acre mountain harbor is not just a place to stay—it’s a destination with a purpose, and every guest plays a role in its success. Skyview by Empyrean in Patnitop is more than a resort; it’s a model for the future of sustainable tourism. As India’s first RTSOI-certified destination, it combines eco-conscious design, responsible travel practices, and luxurious amenities to offer guests an unforgettable experience that’s as kind to the planet as it is to visitors. From reducing carbon footprints with its green gondola to supporting local artisans through its retail outlet, Skyview by Empyrean exemplifies how tourism can positively impact both the environment and the community.

Read more

US returns 297 priceless antiquities and artefacts to India

In a recent turn of events, the US has returned 297 priceless antiquities and artefacts to India. It represents an important moment in the preservation of cultural heritage and the battle against illicit trafficking. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has thankedto U.S. President Joe Biden for facilitating this significant gesture, which underscores the ongoing commitment to combat the illegal trade of cultural properties. The artefacts being returned span nearly 4,000 years, with origins tracing back to 2000 BCE up to 1900 CE, reflecting the rich tapestry of India’s history. According to reports from Live Mint, the majority of these antiquities are terracotta items hailing from Eastern India, complemented by a diverse assortment of stone, metal, wood, and ivory artefacts. This collection not only highlights the artistic achievements of various Indian cultures but also illustrates the depth and variety of the country’s heritage. The Ministry of External Affairs noted that since 2016, the U.S. government has played a crucial role in repatriating a significant number of trafficked or stolen cultural artefacts. In total, 578 items have been returned from the U.S. to India, marking the highest number from any country during this timeframe. This initiative reflects a growing recognition of the importance of cultural preservation and a concerted effort to address historical wrongs. During a symbolic handover at a bilateral meeting in Wilmington, Delaware, Modi and Biden showcased several select pieces from the returned collection. This event served to reinforce the importance of cultural heritage and the shared commitment of both nations to protect and celebrate it. By publicly acknowledging the return of these artefacts, both leaders emphasized that cultural heritage transcends borders and is a common asset that must be safeguarded. The return of these 297 antiquities goes beyond mere diplomacy; it represents a profound reaffirmation of the value placed on cultural heritage. As these artefacts journey back to India, they will not only enrich museums and cultural institutions but also stand as a testament to India’s enduring legacy and the vibrancy of its diverse heritage. This act of repatriation is a vital step toward rectifying past injustices, fostering a deeper understanding of history, and ensuring that future generations can connect with their cultural roots.

Read more

Delhi Airport all set to get the country’s first-ever air train

If all goes according to plan, by the end of 2027, travelling between Terminal 3 (T3) and Terminal 1 (T1) at Delhi Airport will be significantly easier. Thanks to an upcoming air train or the Automated People Mover (APM). If reports are to go by, to put this plan into action, Delhi International Airport Limited (DIAL) has issued a tender for building this much-anticipated project, which will include four stops: T2/3, T1, Aerocity, and Cargo City. This project will be covering a 7.7 km route, and will eliminate the need for reliance on Delhi Transport Corporation (DTC) buses for terminal transfers. To provide more clarity on this matter, sources also said that GMR-backed DIAL will start accepting bids for the project in October-November 2024. The winning bid will need to have all elements like cost-effectiveness, with bidders proposing revenue-sharing models or seeking viability gap funding. And after things get finalised covering all the aspects, the contract will be awarded before the end of the fiscal year. Sources are hopeful that the construction will likely be completed by the end of 2027, as the said timeline has also been communicated to the Union Aviation Ministry, to ensure that the project stays on track. For such bidding the development of an advanced state-of-the-art APM system has been summarised. It will use the design, build, finance, operate and transfer (DBFOT) model when the flight becomes operational. It will guarantee hassle-free travel and reliable connectivity between T1 and T3/2, which will definitely improve the overall passenger comfort and efficiency of the airport. Not only this, this will also significantly contribute to reducing the carbon footprint, thereby helping Delhi Airport improve its Airport Service Quality (ASQ) score. In previous discussions, the government emphasised that no development fees would be levied on passengers to fund the project before its completion. While the exact cost of the air train is yet to be determined by the bidders, estimates suggest it could be around ₹2,000 crore. Initially, DIAL had proposed six stops for the air train. However, the government requested a reduction to four stops to minimise transit time between T1 and T3/2, as more stops would increase both travel time and the need for security at non-terminal stations. Delhi Airport currently handles over 70 million passengers annually, which will likely increase to more than 130 million over the next 6-8 years. A significant percentage of these passengers are expected to be transit flyers, which will make the air train essential for smooth terminal transfers. As per the global standards, air trains are usually free for passengers, and it’s likely that Delhi will also follow suit, wherein costs will be recovered through aeronautical charges and User Development Fees (UDF), as seen in other airports like Mumbai.

Read more

IndiGo to launch daily direct flights from Bengaluru to Jeddah

In a recent update, IndiGo has announced plans to introduce daily direct flights from Bengaluru to Jeddah, starting September 30, 2024. The new service is perfect for business, leisure, and religious travellers, making it a versatile addition to the airline's route network. These direct flights aim to strengthen the economic ties between India and Saudi Arabia by providing seamless connectivity for businesses operating in both nations. The new route will be particularly beneficial for pilgrims traveling to Mecca, as Jeddah serves as a crucial gateway for Hajj and Umrah. This initiative aligns with India’s broader strategy to enhance daily flight connections to the Middle East, promoting tourism, cultural exchange, and economic growth in the region. Vinay Malhotra, Head of Global Sales at IndiGo, expressed enthusiasm for the new route, stating, “We are thrilled to launch daily direct flights between Bengaluru and Jeddah, enhancing opportunities for cultural and business exchange. This new service will connect Jeddah to six destinations in India through 49 weekly flights, providing even more travel options. As India’s leading airline, IndiGo is committed to delivering a seamless, affordable, and hassle-free travel experience, and this new service reinforces our dedication to fostering global connections.” Jeddah, the second-largest city in Saudi Arabia, is renowned for its stunning Red Sea beaches, historic architecture, and vibrant cultural landscape. Visitors can explore the old town of Al-Balad, where charming streets and traditional buildings reflect the city’s rich heritage. The bustling souks offer an authentic shopping experience, while modern malls provide a contemporary retail environment. The local cuisine, a delightful blend of traditional and modern flavors, further enriches the visitor experience. Bengaluru, often referred to as India’s Silicon Valley, is celebrated for its technological innovation and dynamic cultural scene. The city boasts green spaces like Cubbon Park and Lal Bagh, as well as historical landmarks such as Tipu Sultan’s Summer Palace. Additionally, Bengaluru is famous for its flourishing silk industry, known for producing high-quality textiles. The introduction of these direct flights will provide easier access to Bengaluru’s unique mix of tradition and modernity, making it an appealing destination for both tourists and business travellers alike.

Read more

This volcano is releasing gold 'dust' worth over $6,000, baffling scientists

Mount Erebus, Antarctica’s tallest volcano, has recently started puzzling scientists with its unusual daily release of gold particles. Although the volcano releases steam, rocks, and gases normally, it's the tiny specks of crystallised gold that have captured the attention of researchers. If reports are to go by, these golden particles, carried by the wind, have been discovered as far as 621 miles from the volcano’s summit, with their value estimated at up to £5,000 or over $6,000. Mount Erebus stands 12,448 ft tall and is one of 138 active volcanoes in Antarctica. According to NASA scientists, molten rock rises to the surface from deep within the Earth, which causes gold particles to crystallise in the region's extremely cold temperatures. The experts further explained that although there are other volcanoes that can produce gold as gas or liquid, the case of Mount Erebus is a little bit different as it is extracting gold particles, making it stand out from the others. These particles travel through the air and are believed to disperse 'in the form of gold dust' in the vast distance. As per the records, the volcano is said to produce approximately 64.4 pounds of gold annually, which is estimated to be around $2 million (£1.5 million). Although the worth of the gold cannot be denied, experts are against the idea of attempting to mine due to the inherent dangers that unpredictable volcanoes can pose. Mount Erebus is known for its periodic strombolian eruptions, which means it can hurl rocks and other debris, further increasing the risk. Mount Erebus, as the southernmost active volcano on Earth, looms over the McMurdo research base on Ross Island and is considered one of Antarctica's most renowned landmarks. There is also a continuous lava lake within the summit crater. It has been in operation since at least 1972. Considering its remote location satellites serve as the prime source for monitoring volcanic activity. To ensure that researchers would be notified of the eruption. Although this extraordinary feature of Mount Erebus producing gold is fascinating, its remote setting and volatile nature make it an extraordinary but perilous feature of the Antarctic landscape.

Read more

Pune Airport to be named after Saint Tukaram Maharaj

In a recent update, the Maharashtra government has officially approved a proposal to rename Pune Airport as ‘Jagadguru Sant Tukaram Maharaj Pune International Airport.’ This initiative, put forward by Union Minister of State for Civil Aviation Murlidhar Mohol, who is a resident of Pune, aims to honor the legacy of the revered 17th-century saint. On Monday, Chief Minister Eknath Shinde announced the decision via his X handle, confirming that Pune’s Lohegaon International Airport will now bear the name of Sant Tukaram Maharaj. The name change was approved during a state cabinet meeting and will soon be submitted to the central government for final approval. Union Minister Murlidhar Mohol advocated for the renaming to pay tribute to Sant Tukaram Maharaj, who is celebrated for his significant contributions to the Bhakti Movement. According to reports, Tukaram Maharaj spent a considerable part of his childhood in Lohegaon, the very area where the airport is located, making the renaming particularly fitting. Born in the 17th century, Sant Tukaram Maharaj was not only a saint but also a prominent poet whose verses emphasized social reform and devotion. His distinctive poetry style, known as Abhanga, is cherished throughout Maharashtra and continues to resonate with many today. The saint's legacy is closely intertwined with the cultural and spiritual fabric of the region, and the decision to rename the airport serves to honor his enduring influence. In addition to the renaming of Pune Airport, the Maharashtra cabinet has also approved several other initiatives, including a Guaranteed Progression Scheme for Children’s Homes Observatory staff and plans for a Greenfield Expressway connecting Shirur to Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar. These projects aim to enhance infrastructure and social welfare in the state. Murlidhar Mohol noted that Sant Tukaram Maharaj’s mother was originally from Lohegaon, further cementing the connection between the saint and the airport’s location. While he was born in Dehu, near Pune, the time he spent in Lohegaon makes this renaming a meaningful tribute. As Pune prepares to welcome this new identity, the renaming of the airport stands as a testament to Maharashtra’s rich cultural heritage and the importance of honoring figures who have shaped its history. The transition to Jagadguru Sant Tukaram Maharaj Pune International Airport reflects a deep respect for the state’s spiritual traditions and the legacies of its saints.

Read more