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Haryana signs MoUs worth Rs 12,000 crore on first day of Gujarat visit
Digital Desk | Chandigarh/Surat, Oct 27 (IANS) Haryana signed memorandums of understanding (MoUs) involving proposed investments of around Rs 12,000 crore on Tuesday, with commitments spanning defence textiles, renewable energy, industrial machinery and waste-to-energy projects, as the state seeks to attract fresh industrial investment ahead of its global summit in April 2027. The agreements were signed on the first day of a high-level delegations visit to Gujarat, led by Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini. The proposed investments include Rs 5,000 crore in defence textiles, Rs 2,000 crore in technical textiles and Rs 500 crore in industrial machinery. A further Rs 4,000 crore has been proposed for the waste-to-energy sector, while solar energy and cosmetics manufacturing together account for investments worth Rs 400 crore. During the visit, Saini held one-to-one meetings with founders, managing directors and chief executive officers of various companies to discuss the expansion of their existing operations in Haryana, the establishment of new industrial units and potential investment proposals. Industries and Commerce Minister Rao Narbir Singh also attended the meetings. The Chief Minister said the state government was committed to supporting investors and entrepreneurs and attracting investment to generate employment opportunities for young people. Haryana is working to improve the ease of doing business and provide a favourable environment for industrial development. The government aims to offer investors a combination of supportive policies, industrial infrastructure, connectivity and essential facilities, while simplifying procedures and ensuring time-bound approvals, he said. Saini said the state is focusing on better coordination between government departments to reduce procedural hurdles and facilitate the establishment and operation of industrial projects. Haryanas single-window clearance system, investment promotion schemes and plug-and-play industrial facilities were among the measures intended to make the state more attractive to businesses. The government is also seeking to ensure that industries investing in Haryana receive applicable incentives, necessary approvals and departmental assistance in accordance with the rules. Feedback from industry representatives would be considered to improve policies and procedures and help companies implement projects on schedule, he said. He described the MoUs signed on Tuesday as steps towards expanding industrial activity, developing ancillary industries and encouraging new business partnerships. Their implementation could create employment opportunities, strengthen the local economy and increase Haryanas industrial capacity. The Chief Minister invited industrialists and investors to attend the 'Happening Haryana Global Summit', scheduled to be held in April 2027. During the meetings, industry representatives discussed investment opportunities across various sectors and expressed interest in Haryanas industrial infrastructure, business facilitation measures and investment promotion policies.
Punjab Assembly passes resolution for uninterrupted public welfare schemes
Digital Desk | Chandigarh, Oct 27 (IANS) To protect the socio-economic rights of lakhs of families across the state, the Punjab Vidhan Sabha on Tuesday unanimously passed a comprehensive resolution affirming that the public welfare schemes and direct financial entitlements of the people of the state shall continue uninterrupted. Moved on the floor of the House by Finance Minister Harpal Cheema, the resolution firmly established that the resources of Punjab belong to its people, and the foremost duty of an elected government is to deploy those resources to provide financial dignity, quality healthcare, and essential household relief. The House categorically rejected attempts to label public welfare spending as a waste of money. Moving the resolution, Cheema said, Direct assistance provides critical relief to mothers managing monthly household budgets, farmers cultivating fields, and families confronting unexpected medical crises. The Assembly affirmed that public support reinforces citizen dignity, self-respect, and economic independence rather than diminishing it. The resolution highlighted key achievements of the Bhagwant Mann government that have transformed daily living standards across the state. For womens financial independence, over 80 lakh mothers and daughters are registered under the Mukh Mantri Mawan Dhiyan Satkar Yojana, receiving Rs 1,000 per month for the general category and Rs 1,500 per month for eligible Scheduled Caste women. In addition, women undertake over 1 crore free journeys each month on state-run buses, while the Ashirwad Scheme provides Rs 51,000 for the marriage of eligible daughters. In household and agricultural energy relief, the provision of 300 units of free domestic electricity per month has eliminated power bills for more than 90 per cent of households since 2022. Free power for agricultural tube-wells continues to support lakhs of farming households. For universal healthcare access, the Mukh Mantri Sehat Yojana provides health treatment coverage of up to Rs 10 lakh per family annually. A network of 1,244 Aam Aadmi Clinics has already served around 2 crore patients, drastically lowering out-of-pocket medical expenses. Social security pensions of Rs 1,500 per month support 30 lakh senior citizens, widows, destitute persons, and persons with disabilities. Under the Meri Rasoi Yojana, 40 lakh families receive essential food supplies free of cost every quarter, while nearly seven lakh elderly citizens have completed free spiritual journeys under the Mukh Mantri Tirath Yatra Yojana. Calling on all political parties to end ambiguity and declare their stand clearly to the people of Punjab, the resolution noted that withdrawing these benefits would directly deprive households of funds required for basic food, healthcare, and education.
AI must enhance human wisdom, not replace it, says Dr SS Bhatti at an event in city
Meeting assesses Punjab Vidhan Sabha poll preparedness
Digital Desk | Chandigarh, Oct 27 (IANS) A delegation comprising Senior Deputy Election Commissioners, Director Generals and other senior officials of the Election Commission of India (ECI) on Tuesday held a review meeting with the Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) of Punjab, the state police nodal officer and representatives of various Central and state enforcement agencies to assess preparedness for the upcoming Vidhan Sabha elections. The day also witnessed the successful conduct of a First Level Checking (FLC) workshop aimed at training officials and personnel in the technical and administrative procedures associated with the checking of Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) and Voter Verifiable Paper Audit Trail (VVPAT) units. During the workshop, the CEO, Punjab, informed that the FLC process across districts would commence on November 12 and be carried out with complete transparency in accordance with ECI guidelines. The process will remain under strict daily monitoring by the respective District Election Officers to ensure compliance with prescribed procedures. Expert engineers from Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) conducted practical demonstrations and hands-on training sessions to familiarise participants with the technical aspects of FLC. The workshop also included an evaluation exercise and a dedicated session to address queries and clarify doubts. The workshop was attended by District Election Officers, Additional District Election Officers, FLC Nodal Officers, Master Trainers, BEL experts and other officials concerned with the process. Special emphasis was placed on adhering to established protocols and ensuring the highest standards of transparency, accuracy and caution throughout the FLC process. Following the workshop, a review meeting was held with enforcement agencies to assess their preparedness and coordination for the upcoming elections. The meeting focused on ensuring the active involvement of all enforcement agencies to facilitate the smooth, fair and transparent conduct of the electoral process.
Ravneet Bittu turns Punjabs governance debate into a satirical cocktail
Digital Desk | Chandigarh, Oct 27 (IANS) A liquor bottle with a bell-shaped cap becomes the centrepiece of a political jibe at Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, with former Union minister Ravneet Singh Bittu using Punjabi wordplay to raise questions over governance, accountability and the functioning of the AAP government. In the state politics, where political promises are often served neat and accountability can leave a bitter aftertaste, BJP leader Ravneet Singh found a new prop for his latest political broadside: a high-end imported liquor bottle with a bell-shaped cap. The target? Chief Minister Mann. The punchline? Talli a Punjabi expression that can mean intoxicated, while the bell-shaped cap adds another twist to the joke: when the bottle rings, who comes running? With a little Punjabi wordplay and a generous splash of political sarcasm, Ravneet Singh turned the bottle into a metaphor for what he alleges is the state of governance under the Aam Aadmi Party government. In this political theatre, the bottle is the prop, the bell is the punchline, and the real question is who is answering the call. The symbolism was aimed at the reported customs-duty controversy at Delhis Indira Gandhi International Airport involving Chief Minister Mann after his return from France with his family, when he was reportedly asked to wait for nearly three hours. Ravneet Singh used the episode as a springboard for a wider political attack, suggesting that the controversy deserved more than a passing headline. His message was that questions surrounding the conduct of those in high office cannot simply be drowned out by the next political announcement. The bottles bell-shaped cap provided the perfect satirical twist. In Ravneet Singhs telling, the joke was not merely about being talli; it was about who gets called when the bell rings -- and how quickly the machinery of government responds. The satire took a sharper turn with allegations about calls to senior officials, including the Director General of Police, the Chief Secretary and his OSD Rajbir Ghuman. His political narrative suggested that the official machinery could be summoned to act on directions involving cases against political opponents and other individuals, as well as matters concerning drug trafficking, illegal mining and alleged unlawful activities. The satire also raised questions about the alleged flow of illicit money to powerful political patrons in Delhi, questioning whether Punjabs political and administrative priorities are being determined in the interests of the state or those of its leadership. For the BJP leader, the intended message was that governance cannot be reduced to a performance, nor can allegations about the use of state machinery be brushed aside with political slogans.
This 'bottle' has ruined Punjab: Ravneet Bittu slams Punjab CM over governance failure
Launching a scathing attack on the ruling Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) and the opposition Congress, senior Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Ravneet Singh Bittu accused Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann of utter inaction over the past five years. Addressing the media in Chandigarh, Bittu held up a symbolic liquor bottle, referring to it colloquially as a alli, to characterise what he described as five years of administrative apathy, governance failure, and political hypocrisy in Punjab. Targeting Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, the BJP leader alleged that the state government spent its entire term indulging in political theatrics rather than tackling core governance challenges, drug issues, and infrastructure development. This 'talli' explains why nothing has been done in Punjab over the last five years. Chief Minister Sahab has just been busy ringing this 'talli' instead of doing any real, substantive work... Bittu charged that the state has suffered immense damage due to administrative negl...
Misl Satluj to Organise Discussion on Sahib Shri Kanshi Ram Ji
Misl Satluj will organise a discussion on Kanshi Ram Jis Vision on October 27 in Chandigarh, focusing on political empowerment, social equality and justice. The post Misl Satluj to Organise Discussion on Sahib Shri Kanshi Ram Jis Vision on October 27 appeared first on Sikh Siyasat News .
While layoffs and cost-cutting put jobs under pressure, a Chandigarh-based company has gifted four Kia Sonet SUVs to loyal employees. The initiative follows previous car-gifting drives, including 51 vehicles distributed during Diwali last year. The company also offers fuel allowances and a lucky draw through which newer employees can win a car.
Punjab Speaker Vows Strict Action Against Gun Violence Perpetrators
Punjab Speaker Kuldeep Singh Sandhu pledges no leniency for gun violence offenders during a press briefing in Chandigarh. Punjab Speaker Vows Strict Action Against Gun Violence Perpetrators
Chandigarh, October 27, 2026 (Udaipur Kiran): Weather conditions are likely to change across Haryana, with rainfall activity expected to increase from Wednesday, October 28. The Meteorological Department has Haryana Weather Update: Rain Expected from October 28, Yellow Alert for Heavy Rain on October 29 and 30
Punjab Weather Update: Rain, Thunderstorms and Strong Winds Expected on October 29 and 30
Chandigarh, October 27, 2026 (Udaipur Kiran): Punjab is likely to experience dry weather on Tuesday and Wednesday, but the weather is expected to change later this week. According Punjab Weather Update: Rain, Thunderstorms and Strong Winds Expected on October 29 and 30
FCIK seeks local Debts Recovery Tribunal, flags borrowers hardship at Chandigarh
Srinagar, Oct 26:The Federation of Chambers of Industries Kashmir (FCIK) has reiterated its demand for the establishment of a Debts Recovery Tribunal (DRT) within Jammu and Kashmir. Taking up the matter with Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, the Federation highlighted the financial burden, inconvenience and difficulties in securing effective legal representation faced by local borrowers compelled to pursue proceedings at Chandigarh. In its representation, FCIK has requested the Chief Minister to pursue the matter with the Union Finance Minister and the Secretary, Department of Financial Services, Ministry of Finance for establishment of a permanent DRT with regular sittings in Srinagar and Jammu, and scheduled circuit sittings in both cities pending its establishment. The Federation said it had received a number of complaints alleging that engaged counsel, despite receiving professional fees, failed to pursue cases or attend proceedings, resulting in ex parte decisions. These complaints merit serious examination and highlight the vulnerability of borrowers who can neither afford repeated travel to Chandigarh nor readily monitor their cases. When engaged counsel fail to appear, borrowers risk ex parte decisions and enforcement against their businesses and assets without their defence having been effectively presented, FCIK stated. The Federation emphasised that borrowers had earlier enjoyed access to local remedies. Referring to the Honble High Courts judgment in M/s Hotel Alpine Ridge and Others v. Union of India and Others, dated April 12, 2024, it noted that Sections 17-A and 17-B of the SARFAESI Act had provided remedies through the District Court and High Court in the erstwhile State. Following the statutory changes accompanying the 2019 reorganisation, jurisdiction came to be exercised by the Chandigarh DRT, with the September 10, 2021 notification, S.O. 4145(E), providing for its extension to J&K. Borrowers who previously had recourse to local judicial institutions now have to pursue their statutory remedy outside J&K. The resulting cost and difficulty deserve an institutional response, the Federation said. FCIK pointed out that the Department of Financial Services annual report for 202526 listed 39 DRTs across the country, including three at Chandigarh, but none within Jammu and Kashmir. It urged the Union Government to assess local requirements in terms of accessibility, geography and borrowers financial circumstances, alongside caseload. The Federation recalled that the High Court had described proceedings at Chandigarh as cumbersome, inconvenient and expensive, and observed that establishing DRTs or benches/circuit benches within J&K and Ladakh could address these difficulties. The Court had also recorded shortcomings in virtual participation, including connectivity problems that led to directions for physical appearance. FCIK Head of the Advisory Committee Shahid Kamili said repeated travel, accommodation costs, legal expenses and absence from business placed an additional burden on entrepreneurs already struggling with financial distress. Banks have every right to recover lawful dues. Borrowers must equally have an affordable and meaningful opportunity to be heard. A statutory remedy must be accessible in practice, he said. Besides a permanent tribunal and interim circuit sittings, FCIK has sought direct electronic hearing alerts to borrowers alongside counsel, and prompt access to orders. The Federation urged the Chief Minister to support a formal proposal with a relevant offer for suitable premises to facilitate an early decision by the Union Government. Accessible adjudication, it said, would strengthen fair and timely resolution of disputes while complementing the Governments efforts towards industrial revival.
Chandigarh Police arrest 213 and detain 879 in intensified anti-drug campaign
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Ranji Trophy: Badoni Slams Second Successive Ton, Saranshs Seven-for Puts MP On Top
JSCA International Stadium: Batting all-rounder Ayush Badoni continued his rich vein of form by hitting a second consecutive hundred, while India off-spinner Saransh Jains seven-wicket haul gave Madhya Pradesh firm control on day one of the third-round Ranji Trophy matches on Monday. Fresh from a career-best 217 against Gujarat, Badoni struck an unbeaten 106 off 122 balls, laced with 11 fours and two sixes, to take Delhi to 309/5 against Jharkhand at the JSCA International Stadium in Ranchi. Badoni, 26, previously hit 205 against the same opponents in the 2024/25 season. A chanceless knock, Badonis sixth first-class hundred, anchored Delhis recovery. He found a reliable ally in all-rounder Sumit Mathur, who was unbeaten on 50, as the pair put together an unbroken 128-run stand for the sixth wicket. Mathur had a lucky escape on 36 when he was caught at long-on, only to be recalled because Anukul Roy had overstepped. At Holkar Stadium in Indore, Saranshs 7-40 helped Madhya Pradesh bowl Bihar out for just 99. The hosts, still looking for their first win of the season after two draws, then reached 261/3 with a lead of 162, after bowling out Bihar for 99. Wicketkeeper-batter Saksham Purohit was unbeaten on 113, and his opening partner Yash Dubey made 84. At the BKC Ground, Mumbai also made a strong start against Haryana at home after being put in to bat first. Angkrish Raghuvanshi made 114 off 180 balls with 13 fours and a six, while Musheer Khan scored 109 off 185 balls with 12 fours and a six. The pair added 208 runs for the second wicket to steer Mumbai to 290/3 at stumps. Defending champions Jammu and Kashmir, also in search of their first win, were frustrated by Priyanshu Moliya at the Reliance Ground in Vadodara. Moliyas patient unbeaten 113 lifted Baroda to 259/6 after they had slipped to 197/6 at one stage. Vidarbha, who have two wins so far, had Goa in trouble at 84/6 after Nachiket Bhute ripped through the top order with four wickets. But Darshan Misal and Yash Kasvankar then struck half-centuries and shared a stand of 104 runs for the seventh wicket to help the visitors reach 204/8. On a rain-hit day, Pondicherry reduced Uttar Pradesh to 67/4. In Mysuru, Karnataka recovered from a sluggish start to bowl Tripura out for 194 at the SDNR Wadiyar Stadium. The hosts, who sprang a surprise by leaving out pacers Vidwath Kaverappa and Abhilash Shetty to accommodate spinners Shikhar Shetty and Ritesh Bhatkal, failed to make use of the new ball as Tripura moved comfortably to 88/2 in the first session. Left-arm spinner Shikhar then claimed his third first-class five-wicket haul, while pacer Manvanth Kumar took three. Karnataka lost Mayank Agarwal early and were 10 for one at stumps. At the DVR Ground in Mulapadu, Chhattisgarhs spinners made full use of a helpful pitch to bowl Andhra out for 231. Veteran off-spinner Jayant Yadav led the way with 4-75, while Ajay Mandal and Dharmendrasinh Jadeja took three and two wickets respectively. In reply, Chhattisgarh lost Ayush Pandey early when he was run out going for an unnecessary quick single. Captain Anuj Tiwary and Mayank Verma then negotiated the final half-hour to take the visitors to 35/1. Wicketkeeper-batter Prabhsimran Singh laid the foundation with 81 off 126 balls, hitting nine fours and a six, while fifties from Salil Arora and Ramandeep Singh then guided Punjab to 289/6 against Hyderabad in Secunderabad. Denish Das made 90 off 165 balls, with 14 fours, to take Assam to 235/6 against Saurashtra in Rajkot. For the hosts, veteran pacer Jaydev Unadkat picked up three wickets, while Ravindra Jadeja and Arth Yadav took one wicket each. In Thiruvananthapuram, where only 50 overs were possible due to rain, Kerala reduced Bengal to 172/6, with Aditya Sarwate taking three wickets and Nedumankuzhy Basil two scalps. Maharashtra bowled out Gujarat for 233 in Pune, with Siddhesh Veer taking four wickets, while Rajvardhan Hangargekar and Vicky Ostwal claimed three apiece. Maharashtra were 24/1 when stumps were called. Services off-spinner Pulkit Narang returned 6-47, his second five-wicket haul of the season, to bowl Odisha out for 194 in Bhubaneswar. The visitors were 13/0 at stumps. Tamil Nadu bowled out Railways for 184 in Chennai, with R Sai Kishore and Sonu Yadav taking three wickets each, but slipped to 71/3 till stumps arrived. Devendra Singh Boras six-wicket haul helped Uttarakhand dismiss Rajasthan for 272 in Dehradun despite skipper Kartik Sharmas 73. Uttarakhand were 18/0 at stumps. Centuries from Arjun Azad and Nehal Pajni powered Chandigarh past 350 for the loss of three wickets against Himachal Pradesh. In the Plate group, Meghalayas Ajay Duhan (167) and Kishan Lyngdoh (144) shared an unbroken 308-run stand for the second wicket as their side piled up 385/2 against Mizoram in Nadiad. Tamil Nadu bowled out Railways for 184 in Chennai, with R Sai Kishore and Sonu Yadav taking three wickets each, but slipped to 71/3 till stumps arrived. Devendra Singh Boras six-wicket haul helped Uttarakhand dismiss Rajasthan for 272 in Dehradun despite skipper Kartik Sharmas 73. Uttarakhand were 18/0 at stumps. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
Concerned over repeated incidents of murders, shootings: Punjab BJP
Digital Desk | Chandigarh, Oct 26 (IANS) Bharatiya Janata Party Punjab President, Kewal Singh Dhillon, on Monday expressed concern over the alleged repeated incidents of murders, shootings in the state, criticising the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government over the deteriorating law and order situation. He said that incidents of daylight murders and shootings across Punjab have instilled fear among ordinary man. The firing incident in Moga, he added, exposed the reality behind the state governments claims regarding law and order. According to a statement issued from the party office in Chandigarh, Dhillon said that 23 police stations in Punjab have witnessed grenade attacks, while serious incidents, including an attack on the police headquarters using a rocket launcher, have also taken place. The situation has reached a point where police officers are being compelled to issue written instructions to their personnel, advising them against venturing outside in uniform. Protective nets are being installed outside police stations, and their boundary walls are being heightened. These developments raise serious questions about the states security arrangements. He further said, While Punjab is grappling with crime and lawlessness, Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann remains occupied with foreign tours. Instead of prioritising the safety and security of the people of Punjab, the Chief Minister appears more concerned about his birthday. The reported issue of customs duty allegedly being imposed on his belongings upon his return from abroad has also become a subject of discussion. Dhillon demanded that the AAP government take strict action against criminals, strengthen the police force and ensure the safety of citizens. He said that the law and order situation in the state has deteriorated to an alarming level. Instead of shirking its responsibilities, the government must take concrete and effective steps to restore public confidence and ensure security across the state.
Punjab farmers now have helpline to manage crop residue
Digital Desk | Chandigarh, Oct 26 (IANS) With the paddy harvesting season underway and concerns over stubble burning growing, farmers across Punjab now have a dedicated helpline to seek practical solutions for managing crop residue without resorting to burning. The Sanjha Mittar Farmer Support Centre, an initiative associated with Clean Air Punjab, AirCare Centre and Saanjh Punjab, has launched a telephone helpline, +91 79737 27514, which will operate from 9 am to 5 pm. The helpline aims to address one of the biggest challenges confronting farmers during the harvesting season -- finding timely and affordable alternatives to burning paddy straw. Importantly, the initiative goes beyond simply answering farmers' queries. Through direct interaction, farmers will be guided on modern crop residue management machinery, its availability and effective use. They will also be made aware of the harmful effects of stubble burning on soil fertility, human health and the environment, while being encouraged to adopt sustainable alternatives. Sanam, Director of State Climate Action at Asar, said, Sanjha Mittar is built entirely around what farmers told us during our listening exercises. When technology reflects real farmer preferences, the impact becomes immediate and meaningful. This platform brings timely, science-based support directly to their phones, strengthening both decision-making and climate resilience across Punjab. Meanwhile, highlighting growing awareness about the need to eliminate stubble burning, the panchayats of five villages in Fatehgarh Sahib district were honoured at a district-level farmers' camp for ensuring that no stubble burning took place in their respective villages. The five villages -- Dhirpur, Wazidpur, Badla, Rurki and Baronga Jer -- were recognised for their efforts towards promoting environmentally responsible farming practices. The initiative assumes significance as farmers often face a narrow window between harvesting paddy and sowing wheat. Lack of timely guidance and access to appropriate machinery can make crop residue management particularly challenging. By establishing direct communication with farmers, Sanjha Mittar hopes to bridge this information gap, address concerns and encourage behavioural change at the grassroots. The telephone service complements Sanjha Mittar's existing WhatsApp-based digital assistant, developed by Clean Air Punjab and Agri2Power following consultations involving over 2,000 farmers. The objective is to ensure farmers receive the right information and support before they consider setting their fields on fire.
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RJD seeks strict safeguards for Bihar MLC vote counting, fears vote theft
Digital Desk | Patna, Oct 26 (IANS) The Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) has demanded strict transparency and safeguards during the counting of votes for four graduate and four teachers constituencies of the Bihar Legislative Council. A party delegation led by MLA Bhai Virendra submitted a memorandum to Chief Electoral Officer Vinod Singh Gunjial on Monday, seeking guidelines on 10 points to prevent possible irregularities. The memorandum cited the 2024 Chandigarh mayoral election and stressed the need to preserve ballot papers in their original condition and ensure impartial decisions on the validity of votes. Copies were also sent to the Election Commission of India and the commissioners of the respective divisions. The RJD demanded a ban on violet pens and similar writing instruments inside counting centres. It also called for a prohibition on adding marks such as ticks, crosses or lines to ballot papers and sought uniform criteria for determining valid and invalid votes across all counting tables. The party further urged officials to examine suspicious ballot papers before counting first-preference votes. It called for authorised agents to be allowed to raise objections, continuous monitoring through CCTV cameras and videography, and the declaration of results only after reconciling valid and invalid ballot papers and verifying result sheets. The memorandum also sought clear accountability from counting officials and a mechanism to ensure immediate action on complaints. The delegation included former MLA Rajendra Kumar Ram, Ranvijay Sahu, Dr Sanjeev Kumar Singh, the RJD candidate for the Patna Teachers constituency, Dr Anwar Alam and Mukund Singh. Speaking to the media, Bhai Virendra said the party had conveyed its concerns about possible vote theft to the Election Commission and raised several important issues. He said the Chief Electoral Officer had assured the delegation that the counting process would be transparent and conducted in accordance with the Commissions guidelines. However, Bhai Virendra said concerns about possible vote theft persisted. He expressed confidence that the RJD would win all eight seats. Dr Sanjeev Kumar also alleged that some officials had previously faced questions over their conduct and that cases related to irregularities had been registered against them. He demanded that officials facing such allegations should not be assigned counting duties. The counting of votes is being closely watched, with the RJD insisting that strict adherence to electoral rules is essential to ensure a fair and credible outcome.
Haryana CM Saini to lead investment outreach in Gujarat
Digital Desk | Chandigarh, Oct 26 (IANS) Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini will lead a high-level delegation to Gujarat on October 27-28 to attract investments, strengthen industrial cooperation and promote business opportunities in the state, the state government said on Monday. The delegation will visit Surat and Gandhinagar, where it will hold meetings with investors, engage with industry representatives and organise the Haryana Investment Roadshow. Haryana Industries and Commerce Minister Rao Narbir Singh will also accompany the Chief Minister. The outreach comes as Haryana seeks to attract investments worth around Rs 5 lakh crore and generate more than 10 lakh employment opportunities by 2030-31 under its Make in Haryana Industrial Policy -- 2026. Amit Agrawal, Commissioner and Secretary (Industries and Commerce), said Saini would hold one-to-one meetings with investors in Surat on October 27 to discuss investment prospects, industrial expansion and opportunities for setting up businesses in Haryana. The programme will also include a Pravasi Milan Samaroh, bringing together members of the Haryana diaspora and prominent business representatives. The event will highlight the state's cultural heritage, development trajectory and industrial capabilities. On October 28, Haryana will organise an investment roadshow in Gandhinagar, bringing together industrialists, investors and representatives from various sectors. The roadshow will showcase Haryana's industrial infrastructure, investor-friendly policy framework, connectivity and skilled workforce, while highlighting opportunities across sectors, Agrawal said. The delegation will hold discussions with industry representatives on prospective investments, projects and business partnerships. The state will also explore the possibility of signing memoranda of understanding (MoUs) linked to investment proposals. The government aims to use the engagements to establish direct links with investors and encourage companies to consider Haryana for new industrial units and expansion projects. The Make in Haryana Industrial Policy -- 2026 is aimed at accelerating industrial development, strengthening manufacturing and creating a conducive environment for domestic and international investors, according to the state government. Under the policy-led investment push, Haryana has set a target of attracting approximately Rs 5 lakh crore in fresh investments and creating more than 10 lakh jobs by 2030-31. The Gujarat outreach is intended to familiarise investors with the state's industrial ecosystem and encourage investment proposals that could support manufacturing growth, technological innovation and employment generation. The government expects the engagements in Surat and Gandhinagar to open avenues for new industrial ventures, expansion of existing businesses and partnerships with companies across sectors. The visit forms part of Haryana's broader effort to widen investor engagement and position the state as a destination for industrial investment and business expansion.
BJP seeking votes to snatch Panjab University and water, says CM Mann
Digital Desk | Patiala, Oct 26 (IANS) Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann on Monday tore into the BJP, pointing out it is seeking votes to snatch Panjab University in Chandigarh and Punjabs water, while making a habit of depriving the state of its rightful rights and financial dues. Slamming the Modi government for withholding the states RDF (Rural Development Fund) and VAT (Value-Added Tax) dues for four-and-a-half years, he also hit out at the Akalis and the BJP over the drug menace, accusing the two parties of damaging Punjab during their previous tenures and now preparing to reunite for electoral gains. The Chief Minister asserted that Punjab would not tolerate any compromise with its rights and interests, adding the Oppositions frustration stemmed from the continued public support for the Aam Aadmi Party. During a media interaction, CM Mann said, The BJP is seeking votes by conspiring to snatch Panjab University and Punjabs water. Denying Punjab its rightful claims has become an old habit of the BJP. The people of Punjab have made immense sacrifices for the country, contributed to its food security and stood firmly at the forefront of national defence, yet the state continues to face injustice at the hands of the BJP-led Union government. The Chief Minister said Punjab would never allow any political party to undermine its interests or compromise the rights of its people. Panjab University is an important institution associated with Punjabs history, identity and academic legacy, while our water resources are vital to our agricultural economy and the livelihoods of millions of farmers. The people of Punjab will not tolerate any conspiracy to weaken the states rights over its institutions, water or financial entitlements. Calling out the BJP-led Central government for Punjabs pending financial dues, CM Mann said the Modi government has withheld Punjabs RDF and VAT dues. This prolonged withholding of funds is deeply unjust to the people of Punjab and hampers the states ability to undertake essential development and rural infrastructure works. Punjab is demanding nothing beyond its legitimate entitlements, and the Union government must fulfil its financial obligations towards the state, he added.
How Nek Chand Transformed Discarded Materials Into Chandigarh
Nek Chand turned discarded materials into Chandigarhs iconic Rock Garden, inspiring creative reuse and sustainable living.
Industry Body Seeks Debt Recovery Tribunal in Jammu Kashmir, Cites Costly Chandigarh Proceedings
SRINAGAR: The Federation of Chambers of Industries Kashmir (FCIK) has urged Chief Minister Omar Abdullah to press the Union Government for the establishment of a Debt Recovery Tribunal (DRT) in Jammu and Kashmir, citing the financial burden, legal difficulties and inconvenience faced by local borrowers who are required to pursue cases in Chandigarh. In a []
Congress to launch state-wide agitation in Punjab over alleged 'vote theft', says MP Rajiv Shukla
Senior Congress leader and Rajya Sabha MP Rajiv Shukla on Monday alleged that the Election Commission has been arbitrarily removing voters' names across the country, announcing that the party is chalking out a blueprint to launch a state-wide protest movement in Punjab against this massive vote theft. Speaking to reporters here ahead of a key organisational meeting with Punjab Congress district presidents in Chandigarh, Shukla said that party leaders have assembled to discuss several pressing issues, with voter list manipulation being at the top of the agenda. We are in Chandigarh for the Punjab district presidents' meeting. We will be discussing several matters, especially the ongoing vote-theft issue. The Election Commission has been cutting people's votes across the country, and there has been massive vote theft, Shukla alleged. Outlining the party's plan of action, the Congress leader said: We are holding a comprehensive meeting with our Punjab district presidents to formulate...
NCB secures 10-year jail term for three drug traffickers caught with charas in car
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Oct 26 (IANS) The Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB), Chandigarh Zonal Unit, has secured the conviction of three drug traffickers who were caught transporting 3.65 kg of charas concealed inside a car's speaker system. A Special Court in Rupnagar, Punjab, sentenced each of the three accused to 10 years of rigorous imprisonment and imposed a total fine of Rs 2 lakh on each convict. The convicted persons have been identified as Kuldeep Singh, alias Golu, and Sanjeev Kumar, alias Mithoo, both residents of Nabha in Patiala district, and Ashok Kumar, a resident of Patiala/Chandigarh. The case was registered as NCB Crime No. 46/2021. According to the NCB, acting on specific intelligence, a team from the Chandigarh Zonal Unit conducted surveillance on the Sirhind-Patiala Road in Morinda, Rupnagar district, on July 1, 2021. A car matching the description provided in the intelligence input was intercepted. During the search, officials discovered seven packets of round and finger-shaped charas concealed inside a speaker fitted in the vehicle's boot. The seized contraband weighed 3.65 kg, which constitutes a commercial quantity under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act, 1985. All three occupants of the vehicle were arrested at the spot. The Special Court, presided over by Judge Lukhvinder Kaur Duggal, held that the mandatory provisions of the NDPS Act had been duly complied with. In its judgment dated October 21, the court convicted the three accused under Section 20(C) and Section 29 read with Section 20 of the Act. While pronouncing the sentence on October 22, the court referred to observations of the Supreme Court highlighting the severe societal impact of narcotics-related offences. Each convict was sentenced to 10 years of rigorous imprisonment and fined Rs 1 lakh under Section 20(C) and another Rs 1 lakh under Section 29 read with Section 20 of the NDPS Act. In default of payment of each fine, the convicts will undergo an additional two years of rigorous imprisonment. The substantive sentences will run concurrently. The court also directed the initiation of confiscation proceedings under Section 60 of the NDPS Act against the vehicle used to transport the contraband. The NCB reiterated its commitment to the government's vision of a 'Nasha Mukt Bharat' (Drug-Free India) and urged the public to report drug trafficking through the MANAS National Narcotics Helpline at the toll-free number 1933. The identity of informants will be kept strictly confidential.
Bank holiday on Valmiki Jayanti: Will banks remain shut on October 26? Check list
As October unfolds, India's vibrant festival season translates into various state-specific bank holidays. On October 26, banking services will pause in Tripura, Chandigarh, Jammu and Kashmir, and Himachal Pradesh. Important dates approaching include Karva Chauth on October 29 and Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel's birth anniversary on October 31. Although digital transactions persist, customers are encouraged to verify local holiday observances to sidestep any unexpected closures at physical branches.
'15-20 rounds fired': 2 killed, 2 injured as assailants open fire outside homes in Punjab
Two individuals have died and two others are hospitalized following gunfire in Angadpura locality. Authorities identified the deceased as Sahil Jindal and Gagan Jindal, who were cousins. Witnesses report at least 15-20 rounds were fired by assailants from a Black Scorpio SUV. Police have initiated an investigation and recovered three shells from the scene. Families of the victims have named suspects, suggesting personal enmity may be involved.
Congress MP KC Venugopal arrives in Chandigarh ahead of Rahul Gandhi
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