Sandeep Pathak Faces FIR After Joining BJP, Sukhbir Badal Accuses AAP of Selective Targeting
Chandigarh, May 2: Sukhbir Singh Badal, president of the Shiromani Akali Dal, has launched a sharp attack on the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP). He criticized the recent FIRs filed against Sandeep Pathak in Punjab, claiming that AAPs approach resembles selective targeting. Badal alleged that individuals who remain within the party face no repercussions, while those ... Read more Sandeep Pathak Faces FIR After Joining BJP, Sukhbir Badal Accuses AAP of Selective Targeting
Punjabs first case under anti-sacrilege law registered in Sri Muktsar Sahib
CHANDIGARH, May 2: Punjab Police registered a first case under the new anti-sacrilege law after torn pages of a religious scripture were found in a slum area in Sri Muktsar Sahib district. The case was registered on Thursday night following a compliant of torn pages of Sukhmani Sahib Gutka were found in Kuchian Mohalla in Malout in Sri Muktsar Sahib, a police official said. The FIR has been registered against unknown persons, Deputy Superintendent of Police Harjeet Singh said on [] The post Punjabs first case under anti-sacrilege law registered in Sri Muktsar Sahib appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Chandigarh University Student Sarvesh Gupta Tops IIT JAM 2026 (Physics) Exam with All India Rank 1
Chandigarh University Student Sarvesh Gupta Qualifies 3 National-Level Exams, Tops IIT JAM Physics, Clears TIFR GS & INAT 2026 Aspiring Scientist, CU Student Sarvesh Gupta to Pursue an Integrated Ph.D. in Theoretical Physics at TIFR Mumbai Stick to Fixed Routine with Clear Focus, Determination and Discipline Pay Off, says Chandigarh Universitys Sarvesh Gupta Who Bagged AIR 1 in IIT JAM 2026 Physics In remarkable display of academic brilliance, a Chandigarh University student, Sarvesh Gupta, has made history by securing All India Rank (AIR) 1 in IIT JAM 2026 (Physics), one of Indias most competitive postgraduate entrance examinations in which over 12,000 candidates appeared for admission to Master of Science, Ph D and other post-graduate programs at 22 Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs) and Indian Institute of Science (IISc). Chandigarh University Vice Chancellor & other Officials felicitating Sarvesh Gupta for topping IIT JAM 2026 (Physics) Exam with All India Rank 1 Reflecting exceptional conceptual mastery in Physics, Sarvesh Gupta - a final-year student of B Sc (Hons.) Physics program at Chandigarh University who hails from Nepal also qualified two other prestigious national-level examinations including Tata Institute of Fundamental Research Graduate School (TIFR GS) exam which draws 20,000 to 25,000 applicants and IUCAA National Admission Test (INAT-2026) conducted by Inter-University Centre for Astronomy and Astrophysics (IUCAA), Pune for M Sc (Physics with Astrophysics) programme admissions-2026. I am really pleased to have cleared all these three national level competitive examinations. But since I want to do research in Theoratical Physics and become a scientist, I have opted for Integrated Ph.D. (I-Ph.D.) programme in Theoretical Physics from Tata Institute of Fundamental Research, Mumbai for which 22 students have been selected.As a Chandigarh University student, I had the opportunity to visit TIFR Mumbai for a Ideathon competition through the IEEE Student Chapter at CU where we got the 1st prize. I saw the research labs and infrastructure there during this visit, so its dream come true for me to get an opportunity to study at TIFR. Students receive a monthly fellowship of Rs 25,000 for the first year and the fellowship is enhanced to Rs 37,000 per month (further raised to Rs 42,000 after registration for PhD) at the end of the first year, upon satisfactory performance under TIFR GS, . Joined CUs B Sc (Hons) Physics program in 2023 Son of a government school teacher father and homemaker mother in Nepal, Sarveshs academic journey at Chandigarh University began in 2023 when he took admission in B Sc (Hons) Physics program after completing his Class XII education at Budhanilkantha School in Kathmandu. When I was exploring options for higher education after Class XII, one of my cousin brothers, who had studied mechanical engineering at Chandigarh University, suggested me to take admission at CU for world-class quality education. Then I did some research about the CU and really liked everything being offered here. As CU also provides scholarships to meritorious students to pursue our academic dreams and goals, it was an easy decision for me to take admission at Chandigarh University. I got 50 % scholarship at CU which made my education very affordable for my parents, Sarvesh , a resident of Vishnupura village in Nepals Lumbini who has three siblings (two sisters and a brother),said. CUs Learning Environment & Support to Excel in Academics On his time at Chandigarh University, Sarvesh said, I have always been a physics student with a deep curiosity about how the universe works and more importantly, how the ideas behind it evolved. But my vision cleared after coming to Chandigarh University. Professors in our department are very approachable and we can reach out to them for any assistance whether its a doubt, a discussion, or even if you need personal guidancenot just regarding academics. The research labs and libraries are also excellent at Chandigarh University. This fostered an environment where I could focus on my studies and concentrate on my goals. I knew there was always someone there to assist me with whatever came up, the Chandigarh University provided me great environment and support to excel in academics and pursue my dreams. In fact, its my teachers here who motivated me to prepare for competitive examinations and provided the right guidance and all help for competitive test preparations. My teacher went extra mile for helping in clearing the all three competitive examinations by arranging even mock interview sessions which led to a significant improvement in my performance. So I had interest in physics, but I needed specific guidance for pursuing research. This is the kind of direction one ideally needs to find their path was somewhat lacking, but this is something I found here at Chandigarh University , he added. Preparation Strategy: Stick to Fixed Routine When preparing for competitive examinations, one need to adhere to a strict, fixed routine in order to avoid distractions.I confined my daily routine into manageable time slots for studies. For instance, I would wake up in the morning and head straight to the gym. After an hour-long workout, I would return and attend a few lectures for about an hour while sitting comfortably. Then I will get ready for classes at the University. Once back from University, my priority was to practice questions for about one-and-half-hour or however much time I could spare solely to solving practice problems. After that, I would do whatever I felt like doingwatching videos, hanging out with friends, or just chatting. My roommates and I used to talk the most during our meals. In fact, we would often spend an hour and a half to two hours just eatingchatting away, watching videos, or doing whatever else came to mind. So, while distractions were certainly there, they were successfully managed because I stuck to my schedule. I studied during my designated study hours, and then, during the time allotted for leisure, I simply relaxed and enjoyed myself ,. World-Class Quality Education Across Streams Congratulating Sarvesh Gupta for his exceptional achievement, Senior Managing Director, Chandigarh University, Deepinder Singh Sandhu said, Demonstrating exceptional conceptual mastery in Physics Sarvesh Gupta secured All India Rank 1 in IIT JAM 2026 among thousands of aspirants nationwide. As Physics is one of the most sought-after subjects in this exam, the achievement reflects his dedication, perseverance and commitment to academic excellence. Sarveshs success also highlights the research-oriented academic environment at Chandigarh University which has led to six students from CUs Physics department qualifying IIT JAM 2026. This outstanding accomplishment shows the learning environment nurtured at Chandigarh University to shape the path of our students, support their ambitions, and empower them to achieve incredible milestones with focused learning and expert mentorship . Chandigarh University is providing world-class education by providing scientifically designed and industry-collaborative progams to our students. Chandigarh Universitys global rankings are testament of the quality of our education across streams, be it science, engineering, business management or humanities. Chandigarh University has yet again continued its remarkable rise in the QS World University Rankings by Subjects 2026 by securing a place among worlds top 300 Universities in three key subjects including Computer Science and Information Systems, Electrical-Electronics Engineering and Mechanical, Aeronautical and Manufacturing Engineering. By securing Rankings in 11 Subjects in the QS World University Rankings by Subjects-2026, Chandigarh University now rank among worlds top 1 % universities. As a research-intensive university, Chandigarh University fosters innovation and allotted a budget of Rs 15 crore this year for research-intensive education of its students. Chandigarh University boasts over 17000 research publications and over 5000 patents filed by students and faculty.The university supports innovation through 30 industry-sponsored advanced research labs and 32 Centers of Excellence (COEs) partnered with companies like Microsoft, Cisco, Hyundai, Tech Mahindra, Capgemini, and IBM for providing hands-on training to our students which make them future ready. ChandigarhUniversity ChandigarhUniversity is a NAAC A+ Grade University and QS World Ranked University. This autonomous educational institution is approved by UGC and is located nearChandigarhin the state of Punjab. It is the youngest university in India and the only private university in Punjab to be honoured with A+ Grade by NAAC (National Assessment and Accreditation Council). CU offers more than 109 UG and PG programs in the field of engineering, management, pharmacy, law, architecture, journalism, animation, hotel management, commerce, and others. It has been awarded as The University with Best Placements by WCRC. www.cuchd.in .
FIRs lodged against Sandeep Pathak who recently switched to BJP from AAP
Chandigarh: Punjab Police is learnt to have booked Rajya Sabha MP Sandeep Pathak, who recently defected to the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), sources said on Saturday, May 2. Two first information reports (FIRs) have been lodged against Pathak under non-bailable sections, they said. No further details about the FIRs have been disclosed yet. Hours before Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
Rajya Sabha MP Sandeep Pathak Booked In Punjab
CHANDIGARH, May 2: Punjab Police is learnt to have booked Rajya Sabha MP Sandeep Pathak, who recently defected to the BJP, sources said on Saturday. Two FIRs have been lodged against Pathak under non-bailable sections, they said. No further details about the FIRs have been disclosed yet. Pathak was among the seven Rajya Sabha MPs who had quit the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) and joined the BJP. On April 24, the AAP suffered a jolt when seven of its 10 [] The post Rajya Sabha MP Sandeep Pathak Booked In Punjab appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Legal Troubles Loom for Sandeep Pathak After Joining BJP
Chandigarh, May 2: Sandeep Pathak, a Rajya Sabha MP who recently switched from the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) to the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), may face significant legal challenges. Two FIRs have been filed against him in Punjab, raising the possibility of his arrest by the Punjab police. Reports from Saturday indicate that non-bailable offenses ... Read more Legal Troubles Loom for Sandeep Pathak After Joining BJP
No adulteration detected in watermelon samples: UT
Patiala-ki-Rao clean-up: Councillors allege Rs 4 cr work allotted outside MC limits
Punjab cabinet approves Farm Stay Policy & Directorate of Forensic Science Services
Mann gets exemption from court hearing due to spl assembly session
First FIR under Punjabs tougher anti-sacrilege law
Man dupes home buyer of over Rs 1cr by offering to sell landlords house
Top-heavy bureaucracy hits service delivery in Chandigarh
CHB violations: Administration fast-tracking one-time relief policy
Punjab's May Day assembly session erupted in chaos after Congress MLA Sukhpal Singh Khaira accused Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann of attending the House drunk. Opposition parties, including Congress, BJP, and SAD, demanded alcometer tests and the CM's resignation, leading to a walkout and subsequent adjournment.
Warring demands minimum daily wage of Rs 750 for labourers
Over 115 LMT of wheat procured so far in Punjab
Car falls into drain, close shave for youth
15% hike in minimum wages: Punjab assemblys gift for labourers on May Day
House passes Prisons & Correctional Services Bill 2026 to ensure safe custody of inmates
In a mock session, BJP passes no-confidence motion against Mann govt
Punjab transport workers announce strike calendar, demand release of jailed colleagues
Its Centres gift of inflation: Randhawa
Road caves in near Jogindernagar, blocks Mandi-Pathankot highway; orange alert issued for May 3, 4
Man kills friend with interlocking tile in Sirsa village
2 cops caught taking bribe to release impounded bike
Punjab tops farm fire tally with 341 new cases, overtakes Haryana
Census 2027 field operations begin in five states, Chandigarh
Census 2027 is now in full swing across various states, including Andhra Pradesh, Arunachal Pradesh, Haryana, Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, and Chandigarh. Meanwhile, in Delhi, Rajasthan, Maharashtra, Meghalaya, and Jharkhand, residents can take advantage of a self-enumeration facility that makes online data submission easy and efficient.
Congress leaders son ends life amid campaign for civic polls in Sonipat
Student leaders shot at during police action in Sonipat, kin allege fake encounter
Haryana Governor Emphasizes Holistic Development of School Children
Chandigarh, May 1: Haryana Governor Aseem Kumar Ghosh visited the Government Model Culture Senior Secondary School in Nuh and the PM-Shrie Government Senior Secondary School in Firozpur Namak village on Friday. During his visit, he stressed the importance of holistic development for school children. He reviewed essential facilities at both institutions, including academic infrastructure, drinking ... Read more Haryana Governor Emphasizes Holistic Development of School Children
MC house approves agency for new 60 TPD horticulture waste plant
Mumbai, May 1: Governor of Punjab and Administrator of Chandigarh, Gulab Chand Kataria, attended the foundation day celebrations of Maharashtra and Gujarat alongside his wife, Anita Kataria, at Punjab Lok Bhawan in Chandigarh. Due to certain reasons, the foundation day of Himachal Pradesh, which falls on April 15, was celebrated on Friday together with Maharashtra ... Read more Governor Kataria Celebrates Contributions of Himachal Pradesh, Maharashtra, and Gujarat to Nation Building
Governor Kataria Appreciates Contributions of Himachal Pradesh, Maharashtra, and Gujarat
Chandigarh, May 1: Punjab Governor and Administrator of UT Chandigarh, Gulab Chand Kataria, along with his wife Anita Kataria, attended the foundation day celebrations of Maharashtra and Gujarat at Punjab Lok Bhawan, Chandigarh. The foundation day of Himachal Pradesh, which was initially scheduled for April 15, was celebrated on Friday alongside Maharashtra and Gujarat. The ... Read more Governor Kataria Appreciates Contributions of Himachal Pradesh, Maharashtra, and Gujarat
Punjab Assembly Increases Minimum Wage for Workers for the First Time in 14 Years
Chandigarh, May 1: On the occasion of International Labor Day, the Punjab Assembly unanimously approved a 15 percent increase in the minimum wage for workers on Friday. This marks the first such decision in 14 years. The proposal, presented by Punjabs Labor Minister Tarunpreet Singh Sond, was passed during a special session commemorating Kirti Diwas. ... Read more Punjab Assembly Increases Minimum Wage for Workers for the First Time in 14 Years
AAP govts Confidence Motion passes in Punjab Assembly
Chandigarh: The Confidence Motion moved by the Bhagwant Mann government was unanimously passed in the Punjab Assembly on Friday, May 1, and AAP MLAs reaffirmed that they stand like loyal soldiers of the party. This comes days after seven Rajya Sabha MPs of the Arvind Kejriwal-led party defected to the BJP. During the special session Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
Political Turmoil Escalates in Punjab Assembly as Opposition Targets Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann
Chandigarh, May 1: The political climate in Punjab is heating up once again. A fierce exchange of accusations is underway between leaders of the Congress and the Aam Aadmi Party regarding Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann. Punjab Congress President Amarinder Singh Raja Warring has raised questions about the Chief Ministers governance and the decisions made by ... Read more Political Turmoil Escalates in Punjab Assembly as Opposition Targets Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann
Punjab Assembly Passes Confidence Motion Amidst Chaos Over Breath Analyzer Demand
Chandigarh, May 1: The Punjab government convened a special session of the Assembly on Labor Day. Amid speculation about the resignation of Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) legislators, Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann presented a confidence motion for the Punjab government. During this session, the Chief Minister announced a significant gift for workers, declaring a 15% increase ... Read more Punjab Assembly Passes Confidence Motion Amidst Chaos Over Breath Analyzer Demand
Punjab Police Arrests Key Operative Linked to Foreign Gangsters
Chandigarh, May 1: In a significant move against crime in Punjab, the police have achieved a major breakthrough. The Anti-Gangster Task Force (AGTF), in collaboration with the SAS Nagar police, has arrested a crucial operative linked to foreign gangsters during a joint operation. According to police reports, the arrested individual was working under the directives ... Read more Punjab Police Arrests Key Operative Linked to Foreign Gangsters
BJP Claims Disrespect Towards Ministers in Punjab Cabinet Meeting
Chandigarh, May 1: The Punjab unit of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has made serious allegations against the ruling Aam Aadmi Party (AAP). Sunil Jakhar, the state BJP president, claimed that two ministers were subjected to disrespect during a cabinet meeting held on Friday. Jakhar also demanded that the ruling partys legislators undergo breath analyzer ... Read more BJP Claims Disrespect Towards Ministers in Punjab Cabinet Meeting
Punjab CM Faces Allegations of Intoxication in Assembly
Chandigarh, May 1: Serious allegations have been leveled against Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann. The Congress and Akali Dal have shared a video on social media accusing him of arriving intoxicated in the assembly. During a special session of the Punjab Assembly, Congress Legislative Party (CLP) leader Pratap Singh Bajwa demanded immediate alcohol and drug ... Read more Punjab CM Faces Allegations of Intoxication in Assembly
Punjab Police's Anti-Gangster Task Force, alongside Mohali Police, has nabbed a key operative connected to overseas gangsters. A pistol and live cartridges were seized. Preliminary findings suggest the arrested individual was directed by foreign handlers to execute multiple targets in the Tricity area, preventing significant criminal acts. This follows a prior bust of a gangster module.
The Punjab School Education Board (PSEB) has launched a Special Mercy Chance for students who failed Class 10 or 12 exams between 2010 and 2025. This initiative, dedicated to Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib's martyrdom anniversary, offers a final opportunity to complete schooling. Eligible candidates can register online until May 25, 2026, to improve career prospects.
Punjab counter-intelligence has busted two ISI-controlled spy modules, arresting three suspects for using solar-powered CCTV cameras to monitor military locations. Footage was transmitted live to Pakistan-based handlers via mobile apps. The cameras, equipped with 4G connectivity, were strategically placed to bypass traditional wiring for surveillance.
Anglican Church moves high court against Punjabs anti-sacrilege law
The Anglican Church of India has challenged Punjab's new anti-sacrilege law in the high court, arguing it discriminates against other religions. The law offers exclusive protection to the Guru Granth Sahib with severe penalties, while ignoring other holy texts. Petitioners claim this violates secularism and constitutional principles of equality, seeking an immediate stay on its enforcement.
High court suspends sentence of Haryana gangster Anil Chippi in murder case citing prolonged custody
The Punjab and Haryana High Court suspended gangster Anil Chippi's life sentence in a 2009 murder case, citing over 14 years in custody and a distant appeal hearing. However, Chippi is unlikely to be released immediately as he faces 16 other serious cases where he is not on bail. The court stressed this relief doesn't impact other proceedings.
At 14,000 ft, Army eye camp rewrites lives in Ladakh
At meet, Sarbat Khalsa group signals intent to enter political arena
BJP flags drug-linked deaths, slams Punjab govt campaign
Amritpal to face trial in Ajnala attack case from May 2
Woman found dead in Amritsar, minor son apprehended
HTET row escalates: Records destroyed, alleges staff; board calls claims baseless
Tractor crushes boy playing outside house
Register Punjabi as mother tongue in Census: CM Bhagwant Mann to state residents
Moral responsibility: Bhagwant Mann asks famers to junk tube wells, go for canal water
PPCB trains over 13k waste workers to curb open waste burning
Pvt teachers on Census duty protest unsustainable workload
Vikramjit Singh Sahney posts against AAP over RSS imagery poster, illegal mining
HC seeks response on Harbhajans security withdrawal, orders protection for family
HC summons civil aviation secretary virtually over Shimlas exclusion from air-connectivity scheme
FD scam: Panchkula court orders 2-day remand of bank officer
HP corrugated box industry hit by input cost surge, seeks relief
Cong, BJP announce candidates for municipal corporation elections
The Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly passed the Jammu and Kashmir Private Universities Bill, 2026 on April 4, 2026. The bill will allow for private, self-financed universities to be established in Jammu and Kashmir for the first time, following decades of state-run educational institutions dominating the higher education landscape. The purpose of this bill is to help stop the stream of students leaving Jammu and Kashmir and travelling to Pune, Delhi, Chandigarh, Bengaluru, and other cities to obtain quality professional and technical education. While it is a positive step on paper, its level of success in practice depends entirely on the manner in which it is carried out and how openly its limitations are recognized. Filling a Structural Vacuum The private universities legislation is an overdue corrective for the region that has witnessed years of conflict, political uncertainty, and stagnant institutions. Statistics are revealing; every year, 50,000 to 60,000 students from Jammu and Kashmir travel to other states in India for their undergraduate and postgraduate studies, representing not only a brain drain but placing significant financial burdens on the families of children who are obtaining accommodation, transportation, and living in high-cost metropolitan cities across India. If private universities come equipped with credible academic programs, they can accommodate a significant portion of the demand for students looking for educational opportunities close to home. Additionally, while J&K has extensive but dispersed government university infrastructure, it has not been able to keep up with the rising demand from rapidly urbanizing youth. Fields with limited representation in the UT include data science, biotechnology, law, design, management and digital humanities. Because private universities generally have greater capacity for curriculum innovation than state universities, they can rapidly fill these gaps. Furthermore, the alignment of the Bill with the vision set forth by the National Education Policy 2020 and its call for multidisciplinary and research-oriented private institutions creates a level of policy coherence that must be recognized by the critics of the Bill. Who Watches the Watchmen? The inconvenient history of private university regulation in India is a challenge for even the most ardent advocates of the Bill. Proliferation of private universities across states from the mid-2000s until early 2010s has resulted in degree mills in several states including Jharkhand, Rajasthan and Chhattisgarh where colleges and universities charge students duties/fees through the tuition collection process but do not offer any sort of educational benefit to students that would justify those fees being charged; instead, the degrees that they (private universities) confer have resulted in students across these respective states being unable to find gainful employment because the job market has learned to no longer trust degree credentials that were conferred by those degree mills. While the regulatory oversight of private & dg institutions by the UIGC has improved, UIGC has historically exercised a more reactive than preventive approach in regulating said institutions. As such, any evaluation of J&K legislation should evaluate the Bill in light of establishing an autonomous SHERA with enforcement capabilities to inspect DE and issue penalties and delist DE and other chartered universities in the event of improper conduct to deter against potential promoter abuse of the liberty granted in this bill. It is also worth mentioning that the passage of the Bill takes place while both the legislative and administrative functions in J&K (including legislative assembly) are still being formed following J&Ks bifurcation into two UTs in 2019 and there wasnt a legislative assembly until the end of 2024, when elections were held after a gap of six years. Because of these considerations, the speed with which this Bill has moved through the legislature raises legitimate concerns with respect to how adequate public input to the Bill was obtained, how much input did student unions, faculty organisations, and civil society groups sufficient input into the development of legislation being proposed. Or is this legislation nothing more than another example of top down attempting to promote change as needed, while creating additional government authority without having first determined if it was needed based upon student performance. The Elephant in the Room There is no serious assessment of the expansion of private universities in India without first addressing the issue of greater access to education. The nature of a private university as a self-financed institution means that the tuition and fees associated with attendance will always be priced above those offered by a public university. Many rural residents of Doda, Kishtwar, Ramban, Kupwara, and Bandipora are economically disadvantaged, and the high cost of attending a private university may mean that those individuals cannot afford to attend a private university. Currently, the legislation does not provide for an obligation to establish scholarship programs, limit fees or set aside seats for underprivileged students at newly established private universities in Jammu and Kashmir; this represents a major lapse. Without building a measure of equity into the legislation that establishes a private university in J&K, private universities in this area will run the risk of being perceived as an urban/suburban, upper middle class institution, with their attractive campuses located in urban areas such as Jammu and Srinagar, while the rural population continues to migrate from the areas to go elsewhere to attend school or decides, due to lack of access to education generally, to not pursue post-secondary education at all. Investment, Employment, and the Local Question Advocates for the Bill are correct when discussing the economic spillover effects of university campuses. University campuss provide construction jobs through their construction projects create markets for local businesses and service providers for the local communities, bring talent from around the country through faculty recruitment and create knowledge ecosystems that can stimulate businesses in surrounding locations. Branding private university campuses for Jammu and Kashmir, which have difficulty attracting sustained private investment, could provide an anchor for local investors looking for stability and normalcy in their investment decisions. The tourism, hospitality, technical, and agri-processing industries all being identified by the government as priority growth industries for UT will be favoured by local employment opportunities due to a trained, skilled local workforce hired regionally instead of outside the region. However, one critical area where the legislation needs to take steps to prevent circumstances from occurring is that of importing the institutions infrastructure without developing local human capital. If private universities in Jammu and Kashmir hire primarily outside faculty as they have done during previous phases of expansion in other communities, there will not be much of a long-term effect in building up the capacity of the regions local academic institutions. Through incentives and/or regulated hiring requirements, the government needs to ensure that private institutions invest in local faculty development, develop research partnerships with existing local government institutions and establish student internship connections between graduates and local industry for J&K. Normalisation or Optics? To assess this piece of legislation without consideration of the current political environment would be intellectually dishonest. As one of many legislative and developmental actions taken by the Government of Jammu & Kashmir following the revocation of its special status in August 2019, the Private Universities Bill is clearly part of an effort both explicit and implicit by the Government to signal to the people of J&K that the UTs political environment is now stable and that the people can trust the Government and the political processes in the UT. Just as foreign direct investment (FDI) in the manufacturing sector is driven by a stable governance environment, so too are private investments in post-secondary education. Thus, the bill is simultaneously a signal (politically) and a policy (educational). While there is nothing inherently wrong with the bill serving in both of these capacities (policy and politics are rarely separated), there is a danger that in situations where the primary motivation for a piece of legislation is to establish normalcy, the implementation of the legislation may receive less attention than the announcement of the legislation. Citizens of J&K, especially its students, deserve the opposite a quiet, principled, and unexciting implementation of the law that outlasts the press releases. Potential Squandered or Potential Realised? The Jammu & Kashmir Private Universities Bill, 2026 is neither the major moment of change its supporters describe nor, according to the strongest critics, a sham. This bill is a significant first step; it builds the legal basis for private higher education but does not yet address such elements as regulatory enforcement, equity protections and local capacity building that would make private post-secondary institutions genuine opportunities for transformation. This bill should be viewed as an opening; how those institutions that come through this door develop into credible institutions vs. just opportunistic institutions, equitable access to education vs. exclusive enclaves of education, as well as whether local citizens/communities ultimately benefit from these institutions vs. whether they simply serve to extract from the citizens/communities unless there is sufficient political will to enforce the standards set forth will determine what these institutions will be once created. The students of Jammu & Kashmir have waited too long for this bill; they deserve to see the legislation they have waited for be implemented in a manner that is not simply well-intentioned but also executed with relentless and absolute accountability. Dr. Neeraj A Sharma, Honorary Consul General of Palau to India
IPL 2026: PBKS Are Excellent At Batting, But They Need Their Bowlers To Stand Up, Says Bishop
Indian Premier League: Punjab Kings are sitting at the top of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 table, but former West Indies fast bowler Ian Bishop believes that their bowling needs to step up in terms of execution, adding that out-batting strong opposition teams is not a sustainable formula for winning the championship. PBKS saw their unbeaten run end when they lost to Rajasthan Royals by six wickets in New Chandigarh. Their bowlers bowled more than twice the number of slower balls compared to RR, but leaked 64 runs off 27 such deliveries without taking a wicket, which meant they erred hugely in execution and got a thorough reality check. Look, I think I said yesterday, and it's something that I've been thinking deeply about with Punjab because I'm a great fan of Shreyas Iyers leadership and also Ricky Ponting as a coach. I like the aggressive way that Punjab, not even this iteration, I go back to the 2014 Punjab Kings team that got to the final. I go back through the pandemic when Punjab were going hard. This hasn't just begun. The one thing that concerns me, and it sounds counterintuitive, is that the team at the top of the table, I'm going to identify their bowling as something that they will believe as well, needs to be better because when I go across the metrics again, in each phase, Punjab are in the bottom three bowling-wise. So what happens is that you're limiting yourself to trying to out-bat, for want of a more savvy term, like strong opposition teams like RCB, like Sunrisers Hyderabad, a wonderful bowling team like Rajasthan Royals with Jofra Archer. The teams that historically have won the IPL, certainly in this decade, if I could go back maybe up to 2010, 2015, have always had a balance between batting and bowling, Bishop, an ESPNCricinfo expert, told IANS in a virtual interaction ahead of TATA IPL 2026 Revenge Week. PBKS have also conceded five 200plus totals and one score of 195 in seven completed innings. Much of that slide is linked to left-arm pacer Arshdeep Singh enduring his toughest IPL season, where his average and economy rate have been on the higher side. Only time will tell if PBKS get their bowling act right against Gujarat Titans, who they meet in Ahmedabad on Sunday, when the revenge week phase of the competition is observed from May 2-10. PBKS bowlers had fared really well at the back-end of the innings when they previously beat GT in New Chandigarh to kickstart their stellar season on a high. Now that may change this IPL, I'm waiting to see. But I do think Punjab are excellent at batting, but they need their bowlers to stand up. I think they mis-executed in that last game that you spoke about. They were put under pressure, and under pressure is when the best bowlers will execute their yorkers, execute their slower balls. Only time will tell if PBKS get their bowling act right against Gujarat Titans, who they meet in Ahmedabad on Sunday, when the revenge week phase of the competition is observed from May 2-10. PBKS bowlers had fared really well at the back-end of the innings when they previously beat GT in New Chandigarh to kickstart their stellar season on a high. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Catch TATA IPL 2026's Revenge Week, May 2-10, LIVE on JioHotstar and Star Sports Network Article Source: IANS
Rahul Gandhi interacts with Congs emerging leaders from Punjab, Himachal, J&K
Shimla Summer Festival rescheduled, now from June 8 to 12
Playing 1957 in 2026: Punjab Police draw investigation lessons from 12 Angry Men
Anti-sacrilege law: SGPC suspends Guru Granth Sahib distribution till May 20
Country took long leap in all sectors under Modis leadership in last decade: Nadda
CHANDIGARH, Apr 30: Union Health Minister J P Nadda on Thursday said under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the country has taken a taken a long leap forward across all sectors, particularly in the healthcare sector, in its journey toward realising a Viksit Bharat. If I were to speak of these initiatives, I would highlight the strengthening of our health systems, of course in the areas of science, innovation, and technology, Nadda said while addressing the 10th National [] The post Country took long leap in all sectors under Modis leadership in last decade: Nadda appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Punjab Police Busts ISI-Backed Espionage Module
CHANDIGARH, Apr 30: The Punjab Police on Thursday said it has busted an espionage module backed by Pakistans ISI with the arrest of its key operative from Ferozepur. The Counter Intelligence Wing of Punjab Police in Jalandhar also recovered China-made solar CCTV equipment with 4G connectivity from Kapurthala, Director General of Police Gaurav Yadav said. The accused has been identified as Sukhwinder Singh alias Sukha of Ferozepur, he said. Investigation revealed that the accused, along with his associates, had been [] The post Punjab Police Busts ISI-Backed Espionage Module appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Electronic Cigarettes Act: Rajasthan Royals (RR) skipper Riyan Parag has been fined 25 percent of his match fee and handed a demerit point after being caught using a vape inside the dressing room during the IPL 2026 match against Punjab Kings in New Chandigarh. A statement from the IPL on Thursday said Parag admitted to breaching Level 1 of the IPLs Code of Conduct, which covers conduct that brings the game into disrepute. The incident occurred during RRs successful chase when cameras captured him vaping in the dressing room, leading to huge outrage on social media and in the IPL ecosystem. The incident occurred during the second innings when Riyan was seen using a vape inside the dressing room. Riyan admitted to the offence and accepted the sanction imposed by the Match Referee, Amit Sharma, further said the statement from the IPL. It is understood that after Parags visuals of using the vape were brought to the attention of the authorities, on-field umpires Tanmay Srivastava and Nitin Menon reported the matter to match referee Sharma. The IPLs code does not explicitly mention vaping but stresses maintaining decorum in dressing rooms and player areas. The statement also said a process of taking a strict action on RR is also on the cards. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is also exploring other options to initiate proceedings for stringent action against the erring team, its officials and player/s to ensure that the reputation of IPL remains intact, it further said. Article 2.21 is intended to cover all types of conduct that bring the game into disrepute and which is not specifically and adequately covered by the specific offences set out elsewhere in this Code of Conduct, including Article 2.20. By way of example, Article 2.21 may (depending upon the seriousness and context of the breach) prohibit, without limitation, the following: (a) public acts of misconduct; (b) unruly public behaviour; and (c) inappropriate comments which are detrimental to the interests of the game. When assessing the seriousness of the offence, the context of the particular situation, and whether it was deliberate, reckless, negligent, avoidable and/or accidental, shall be considered. Further, the person lodging the Report shall determine where on the range of severity the conduct lays (with the range of severity starting at conduct of a minor nature (and hence a Level 1 Offence) up to conduct of an extremely serious nature (and hence a Level 4 Offence)), says the IPL Code of Conduct on breach of Article 2.21. By way of example, Article 2.21 may (depending upon the seriousness and context of the breach) prohibit, without limitation, the following: (a) public acts of misconduct; (b) unruly public behaviour; and (c) inappropriate comments which are detrimental to the interests of the game. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Previously, RR team manager Romi Bhinder was fined Rs 1 Lakh and given a stern warning for using a mobile phone in the dugout during a clash against Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in Guwahati. RR will next face Delhi Capitals at the Sawai Mansingh Stadium in Jaipur on Friday. Article Source: IANS
Arrested for spying for Pakistan, YouTuber Jasbir Singh gets bail
A Punjab-based YouTuber arrested for alleged spying for Pakistan's ISI has been granted bail. The Punjab and Haryana high court noted gaps in the prosecution's case. The court cited a lack of direct communication or transmission of sensitive information. The YouTuber had been in custody for over 10 months. His YouTube channel primarily featured travel and vlog content.
Punjab Police bust cross-border drug-arms racket; 2 held with 4.1 kg heroin, pistols
Overworked resident doctors down with severe burnout: PGI survey
A recent PGI study uncovers alarming levels of burnout among resident physicians, with a staggering 80% logging over 60 hours a week. This relentless pace, exacerbated by insufficient staffing, not only drains doctors physically and mentally but also jeopardizes the quality of patient care, creating a cycle of stress and anxiety.
Watermelon adulteration: Chandigarh health dept launches purity tests
In response to a heartbreaking event in Mumbai, the food safety team in Chandigarh is taking proactive measures with a large-scale initiative. Officials are visiting ten different spots across the city, collecting watermelon samples to be tested in their mobile lab.
Punjab cops draw lessons from 1957 acclaimed Hollywood movie '12 Angry Men'
In a groundbreaking initiative, Punjab Police are integrating the timeless narrative of '12 Angry Men' into the training regimen for 200 sub-inspectors. Drawing inspiration from the film's exploration of justice, the Bureau of Investigation is enhancing skills in critical analysis, scrutinizing evidence, and recognizing personal biases.
IED blast: Bombers brother leads cops to RPG, RDX & pistols
Lok Sabha speaker to militancy links, Panjwar back in focus after blast death
BJP slams march marking Khalistan Declaration anniversary
Kangra bans aerial activities ahead of VVIP visits, IPL matches
SGPC outreach: Sikligar, Vanjara Sikhs arrive at Golden Temple from Bengaluru
2,291 CCTV cameras in Punjabs border belt to boost security: DGP
Congress, SAD censure AAPs artificial show of strength in Jalandhar
Will definitely go: Mann to meet President on May 5 to seek recall of Rajya Sabha defectors
Drain on state exchequer: Opposition slams AAP on convening special session on Labour Day
AAP enjoys confidence inside & outside assembly, still ready for floor test: CM Mann
Canal water supply for paddy sowing in Punjab from May 1: Mann
Bengaluru jatha arrives at Golden Temple under SGPC outreach initiative
