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CHANDIGARH: The Punjab Cabinet on Tuesday approved the empanelment of around 300 private specialist doctors across 12 key specialities, marking the first such move in the state to address a severe shortage of specialists in public healthcare institutes. The empanelled doctors will receive Rs 100 per patient for both OPD and IPD examinations. The initiative aims to strengthen secondary healthcare services by improving specialist availability across government hospitals. The empanelment will be carried out at the district level through Civil Surgeons, and the doctors will also be paid for emergency calls, minor and major surgeries, procedures and other services. A cap has been set on the number of patients each doctor can treat, between 50 and 150 for OPD, and between 2 and 20 for IPD. The current shortage of specialist doctors across all disciplines stands at around 900. Incentives have also been fixed for minor and major surgeries performed by these doctors. The specialists will be drawn from Medicine, Paediatrics, Psychiatry, Dermatology, Chest and TB, Surgery, Gynaecology, Orthopaedics, Ophthalmology, ENT and Anaesthesiology. Earlier, the government had empanelled only general doctors for Aam Aadmi Clinics, not hospitals. These specialist doctors, however, are being empanelled specifically for hospitals. Speaking to the media after the Cabinet meeting, Punjab Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema said that to retain doctors in government hospitals, doctors on night duty will receive Rs 1,000 for being called during the day, and vice versa. Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann has asked officers to come up with a new incentive-based policy for doctors and teachers serving in border areas. This has been done as employees prefer not to be posted there. We want to ensure last-mile delivery of health and education services, he added. The Cabinet also approved the insertion of Rule 28A, Uniform Disciplinary and Appellate Framework, into the Punjab Cooperative Societies Rules, 1963. This will remove duplication of appellate channels, prevent conflicting decisions within the same board or its committees, clarify the chain of command in disciplinary proceedings and ensure that appeals are heard only once within the institution. The new rule will also protect employee rights through due process and strengthen institutional accountability by defining authority at each level, bringing uniformity across apex institutions and central cooperative banks in the cooperative sector. The Cabinet further approved amendments to the Punjab Minor Minerals Rules, 2013 in accordance with the Punjab State Minor Minerals (Amendment) Policy, 2025. These new rules and modifications were required for allocating mining rights to Mining Lease Holders of Crusher Mining Sites and Landowner Mining Sites in the state.
Punjab Zila Parishad, Panchayat Samiti polls to be held on December 14, 50% seats reserved for women
CHANDIGARH: Punjab will hold the long-overdue Zila Parishad and Panchayat Samiti elections on December 14, with 50 per cent of seats reserved for women to boost their participation in grassroots governance. The elections are being seen as a litmus test for political parties ahead of assembly polls scheduled 14 months later. Originally scheduled for May, these elections were postponed multiple times, first to October and then to December, after floods hit the state in August and September. Political parties will contest the polls on their own symbols. State Election Commissioner Raj Kamal Chaudhari said that 1.36 crore voters will cast their ballots for elections to 23 Zila Parishads and 154 Panchayat Samitis, with 19,181 polling booths being set up. The SEC has identified 915 hypersensitive and 3,582 sensitive spots. Counting will take place on December 17, and the model code of conduct has come into force. We will be making adequate arrangements for the smooth conduct of these elections, as an IAS officer and a 2010-batch PCS officer will be appointed as Election Observers, besides SP-rank officers as Police Observers, he said. He added that candidates contesting Zila Parishad polls must pay a nomination fee of Rs 400, while those contesting Panchayat Samiti polls will have to pay Rs 200. Nominations will be filed between December 1 and 4, and the papers will be scrutinised on December 5. The last date for withdrawal of nominations will be December 6. Additionally, around 50,000 police personnel will be deployed to ensure the smooth and secure conduct of the elections.
India releases three Pakistani prisoners after completion of sentences
CHANDIGARH, Nov 28: In a humanitarian move, Indian authorities on Friday released three Pakistani nationals who had completed their sentences in various Indian prisons. The handover took place at the Attari Wagah border, where officials confirmed that all legal and immigration formalities had been completed before transferring the men to the Pakistan Rangers. Among those released was Mohammad Iqbal, a resident of Pakistans Punjab province, who spent nearly 30 years in Indian jails. Arrested at the age of 18 under [] The post India releases three Pakistani prisoners after completion of sentences appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
NSS Pre-Republic Day Camp Showcases Discipline, Diversity and Unity at Chitkara University
Chitkara University , Punjab, is hosting the North Zone NSS Pre-Republic Day Parade Camp 2025 , which commenced on 21st November and will continue until 30th November 2025 . The campus is witnessing a gathering of over 200 NSS volunteers from northern states, creating an atmosphere of discipline, national service and collective responsibility. The camp has been designed to strengthen leadership qualities, teamwork and commitment to the nation, while encouraging meaningful interaction and collaboration among the youth. NSS volunteers showcase Indias cultural tapestry at Chitkara University during the North Zone NSS Pre-Republic Day Camp 2025 -a moment of unity, diversity and pride The inauguration ceremony opened with the lighting of the ceremonial lamp followed by the NSS Lakshay Geet, creating an ambience of dignity and reflection. From the very beginning, the participants have shown exceptional enthusiasm as they immersed themselves in a structured schedule designed to promote fitness, focus and resilience. Each day begins with Prabhat Pheri at dawn, followed by yoga and meditation sessions that encourage a balanced blend of physical strength and mental clarity. Parade drills have been an integral part of the camps routine, instilling discipline, precision and coordination among the volunteers, who continue to display growing confidence and commitment to their roles. In addition to physical training, academic sessions are being conducted by experts to provide timely and relevant insights to the volunteers. Dr. Pawan Kumar addressed the critical topic of Cyber Safety and Digital Hygiene, enhancing awareness in an increasingly digital world. Dr. Vivek Trivedi motivated the participants to view themselves as changemakers capable of contributing to society through responsible action. A focused session by Er. Nitika Singla on disaster preparedness, particularly earthquake awareness and response, added depth to the learning experience and highlighted the importance of readiness during emergencies. The evenings at the Exploretorium have become a celebration of Indias rich cultural diversity. Performances from Punjab, Rajasthan, Ladakh, Jammu & Kashmir, Chandigarh, Haryana, Himachal Pradesh and Delhi have created a vibrant atmosphere that encourages cultural exchange and interaction. These sessions have not only illuminated the artistic traditions of each region but also reinforced the spirit of unity in diversity that lies at the heart of the NSS movement. Speaking on the ongoing camp, Dr. Madhu Chitkara, Pro-Chancellor, Chitkara University, said, The NSS volunteers are demonstrating exemplary dedication, discipline and teamwork. Their involvement goes beyond parade training and reflects a deeper commitment to nation-building and responsible citizenship. When youth channel their energy towards service and learning, they become the true strength of the country. At Chitkara University, we take pride in nurturing such values and shaping leaders who contribute meaningfully to society. As the camp progresses, volunteers are embodying the spirit of the NSS motto, Not Me, But You. The North Zone NSS Pre-Republic Day Parade Camp at Chitkara University is not only instilling discipline but also shaping socially aware individuals who value service to the nation, community welfare and unity of purpose. Guided by these principles, the volunteers are emerging as responsible citizens ready to contribute to society with dedication and integrity. About Chitkara University Chitkara University is a distinguished private institution known for its commitment to fostering academic excellence, research, and innovation across various disciplines. With a focus on creating leaders of tomorrow, the university offers a wide array of undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral programs that equip students with the knowledge, skills, and values needed to succeed in an ever-evolving global landscape. www.chitkara.edu.in .
Punjab police officer set ablaze as roadways agitation turns violent
A protest by Punjab Roadways contractual employees against the Kilometre Scheme turned violent, leading to a police officer being set ablaze with petrol. The agitation crippled transport services across Punjab, with over 3,000 buses off-road. The incident occurred when police attempted to disperse workers atop buses.
Union Health Minister J.P. Nadda emphasized a wellness model for national health at the National Health Conference, highlighting the expansion of Ayushman Bharat Health and Wellness Centres for accessible, preventive care. The event also honored Dr. Raj Bahadur with a Lifetime Achievement Award for his contributions to orthopedics and medical education, and Dr.
Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan met farmers in Punjab, praising their stubble management efforts. He discussed free-trade agreements, farmer income, MSP talks, and the challenge of stubble burning, aiming to replicate Punjab's success in other states. Chouhan emphasized stubble as a resource rather than a problem.
Punjab villages stubble management hailed
CHANDIGARH: Union Agriculture and Rural Development Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan on Thursday congratulated Punjab for achieving an 83 percent reduction in stubble-burning cases, calling the states progress a model that should be followed across the country. During his visit to several parts of Punjab, he met farmers, reviewed rural development work, and said the state had shown that determined community efforts could bring real change. Speaking about stubble burning, Chouhan said the issue had worried the entire nation. With the stubble burning, a field may get cleared for the next crop, but friendly insects are also burnt, besides causing the problem of pollution. I have come here to congratulate Punjab and take this experiment to the whole country, he said. He added that stubble should be treated as a useful resource, not a burden, and that constructive dialogue and proper support could help farmers make that shift. Much of his conversation with farmers centred on stubble management, sustainable farming and ways to increase rural income. Earlier in the day, Chouhan visited Ransih Kalan village, where farmers have not burnt stubble in six years. He praised the village for its commitment to environmental protection, social reforms and strong community participation. Farmers told him that scientific straw-management techniques had improved soil health and reduced the use of chemical fertilisers by about 30%. A potato farmer shared how they no longer use potash for the crop because stubble has potash. Chouhan quoted the farmer and added, The size and quality of potatoes are better. This village is a school, calling the farmers work an example for others. He also said, I am giving a message from here that what farmers of Ransih Kalan have done, farmers of the entire country should adopt. Chouhan explained that not burning crop residue has many benefits, including saving water and diesel, reducing fertiliser use and improving soil fertility. He also sat on a traditional manja and enjoyed makki di roti and sarson da saag. Chouhan was accompanied by Punjab BJP chief Sunil Jakhar. Farm talks Chouhan said stubble should be treated as a useful resource, not burden His conversation centred on crop residue mgmt and sustainable farming Chouhan visited the Ransih Kalan village, where farmers have not burnt stubble in the past six years
Vice-Prez approves PU Senate poll schedule; cheers erupt at dharna site
HC cautions judicial officers against casual reliance on digital alerts in deciding cases
Punjab launches system to simplify property registration
After wifes allegations, cops release crime record of gangster paraded in chains
Panchayat polls to be held after Disaster Act lifted in HP: CM Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu
6 years, zero farm fires: Shivraj Chouhan lauds Ransih Kalans green farming shift
HC warns officers of civil imprisonment for non-compliance in JBT pension case
Central govt to probe irregularities in MGNREGA scheme: Union minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan
Punjab CM Bhagwant Mann, Haryana minister of state visit kin after basketball players death
Diesel stock intensifies fire caused by cylinder blast, woman & son killed
Akal Takht acting jathedar Giani Kuldip Singh Gargaj visits family of murdered Jalandhar girl
Prali is a vardan, awareness outweighs financial support: Union agri min Shivraj Singh Chouhan
Haryana disaster mgmt dept introduces FIFO system to ensure efficiency in property docu approval
After 2-year lull, Chandigarh MC draws Rs 97cr road revival plan
Students rape-murder in Chandigarh: Justice catches up with serial killer after 15 years
Paddy, basmati arrivals decline due to prolonged rainfall
HC expresses dismay over poor access, inadequate facilities at Shimla AIMSS
Come on car ride to see reality of illegal mining: Ashwani Sharma to CM Bhagwant Mann
A shootout every 4 days in Punjab since 2022: Data
Direct attack on democracy: Amritpals father slams Punjab govt for denying parole to jailed MP
Punjab releases Rs 213cr for Rangla Punjab Scheme
Pucca house approval letters worth Rs 2.5 cr distributed to beneficiaries in Khanauri
Gunshots fired at AAP leaders house in Phagwara; extortion letter, 23 shells recovered
Panckhula set to host India International Science Festival
Work halted at HPs Bhattakuffer twin tube tunnel after landslide concerns
SGPC chief Harjinder Singh Dhami slams Punjab for neglecting construction of memorials
AAP trying to snatch credit, not acknowledging Centres timely help: BJPs Tarun Chugh
Mostly political: Iqbal Singh Lalpura slams special session in Anandpur Sahib
Amrinder Singh Raja Warring, Sukhbir Badal hail PU Senate election notification
Chamba dist court grants bail to BJP MLA Hans Raj in Pocso case
Two key HP info panel posts vacant, 1,656 appeals await disposal
Army drone crashes into Hansi factory after bird collision
Three-day PSEB workshop to kickstarts major assessment reform
Tesla likely to set up Indias first EV plant in Haryana: CM Nayab Singh Saini
Classroom to boardroom: PSEB to launch entrepreneurship curriculum for Class 12
Centre announces Panjab University Senate election dates after weeks of protests, political backlash
CHANDIGARH: After weeks of protests and massive political backlash across Punjab and Chandigarh, the Union government has finally approved the dates for the Panjab University Senate elections to be held next year, with the Vice-President, who is also the Chancellor, approving the poll schedule. The central government has accepted a key demand of protesting students at Panjab University, with Vice-President C P Radhakrishnan, who is also the Chancellor of the university, approving the Senate election schedule. The decision was communicated to the PU Vice-Chancellor, Prof Renu Vig, today. The central government has accepted a key demand of protesting students at Panjab University, with Vice-President C P Radhakrishnan, who is also the Chancellow of the University, approving the Senate election schedule. The decision was communicated to the PU Vice-Chancellor, Prof Renu Vig, today. As per a letter issued today by Under Secretary Sarita Chauhan in the Vice-Presidents Secretariat, Please refer to the Punjab Universitys letter no. DR 1/25/8393 dated November 9, 2025 forwarding the schedule of dates for the Senate elections in Punjab University. In this regard, I am directed to convey that the Vice President of India and Chancellor Panjab University has approved the schedule of Senate elections as proposed in the aforementioned letter. The Senate has 91 members, and elections are held for 49 seats. The term of the previous Senate ended in October last year. The elections for various constituencies of the Senate, which is PU's primary decision-making body, will be held between 9 September and 4 October 2026. The schedule includes polls across multiple constituencies, with the first notification to be issued in January 2026. Elections for principals and staff will be held on 7 September 2026, teachers constituencies on 14 September, heads and faculty of arts colleges on 20 September, and the registered graduate constituency also on 20 September. Counting of votes will take place on 22 September, while faculty elections will be held on 4 October. The announcement triggered celebrations at the protest site of the PU Bachao Morcha, with students rejoicing and calling friends and leaders to join them. Protests erupt at Panjab University; students vow to continue agitation till senate poll dates announced Vice-Chancellor Prof Renu Vig also visited the site and appealed to students to end their agitation, saying their core demands had been met. However, the Morcha had not formally decided to withdraw the protest. Protesting students said their movement would continue over some pending demands. These include the withdrawal of criminal cases filed against agitators who clashed with Chandigarh Police. This demand remained unresolved after the central government rolled back its earlier decision to downsize the Senate and abolish much of its election process. The controversial restructuring move, introduced through four notifications between 30 October and 7 November, was withdrawn within a week following widespread criticism. But the students continued their protests, supported by various political parties, farmers unions and the Quami Insaaf Morcha. On 10 November, a complete shutdown of the university led to chaos not only on campus but across Chandigarh, as protesters broke through the university gates and clashed with the police. The second shutdown, held yesterday, remained peaceful, although the university had to defer some examinations. Reacting to the announcement, Shiromani Akali Dal president Sukhbir Singh Badal said, I congratulate all the students, staff, and alumni of Panjab University on their milestone victory in forcing the Government of India to announce the schedule for Senate elections. This victory has been made possible by the strength of unity demonstrated by students through a peaceful democratic struggle. Punjab Congress president Amarinder Singh Raja Warring said it was a victory for students and a victory for democracy over the dictatorial and authoritarian BJP government at the centre, which wanted to do away with democratic body, the Senate. Senior AAP leader and MP from Anandpur Sahib, Malvinder Singh Kang, said, Heartfelt congratulations to the resilient students, teachers, faculty, and the indomitable people of Punjab who stood unbreakable in the face of relentless adversity. Better late than never, justice has finally prevailed. The long-overdue approval of Senate elections at Panjab University marks a resounding victory for the people. This iconic institution is Punjabs beating heart and eternal soul. The Centre sought to trample its autonomy, but Punjabs united, uncompromising resistance has triumphed.
Housing prices trend: HPI growth slows to 2.2% in Q2; key metros pull index down
India's housing prices saw a significant slowdown in Q2 FY26, with the All-India House Price Index growing 2.2% year-on-year, a sharp decrease from 7% a year prior. This dip was influenced by softer prices in major cities like Kolkata and Chennai, despite contributions from Nagpur, Ghaziabad, and Chandigarh to the annual rise.
Costliest number plate in India, HR88B8888 sold at Rs 1.17 crore
Chandigarh: Haryana has broken a national record in the VIP vehicle-number auction, with registration plate HR 88 B 8888 fetching Rs 1.17 crore, the highest price ever paid for a car registration number in India. The online bidding was conducted through the states official VIP-number auction portal from Friday, 5 pm to Monday, 9 am. 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 .
Demand for dual citizenship echoes as Indian diaspora forum urges government action
CHANDIGARH: India has the largest national diaspora in the world, with over 3.5 crore people living abroad, prompting calls for dual citizenship to elevate the countrys global stature. Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) form a significant share of the nearly 300 million people living outside their countries of birth. IndUS Canada, a leading forum representing 79 prominent organisations of the Indian diaspora across the United States and Canada, has renewed its appeal to the Union Government to introduce dual citizenship or significantly enhance the rights under the Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) scheme. The forum, headed by Vikram Bajwa, emphasised that dual citizenship is not merely an administrative reform but a transformative step capable of elevating Indias global stature. Citing the latest data released by the Ministry of External Affairs, the forum noted that over 80 lakh Overseas Indians reside in the US and Canada, forming one of Indias strongest strategic assets. Yet, without the rights, security and long-term stability that dual citizenship provides, India is unable to fully benefit from their financial strength, professional capabilities and global influence, Bajwa said. He pointed out that countries such as Israel, Canada, the UK, Australia and even Pakistan have long leveraged dual citizenship to expand their diplomatic reach and economic momentum. If these nations can empower their diaspora for national growth, why should India restrict itself to only a lifelong visa under OCI? he asked. Bajwa reiterated that dual citizenship could serve as a historic reformone that propels India into a future-ready global economy and accelerates Prime Minister Narendra Modis mission of Viksit Bharat . Describing it as a 22nd-century idea for a 21st-century India, he said it is capable of redefining national development and strengthening Indias international position. He argued that dual citizenship would provide much-needed stability to Overseas Indians facing economic uncertainties, particularly in the United States. Recent tariff escalations and geopolitical tensions have placed many Indian-origin professionals and entrepreneurs in unpredictable situations. With dual citizenship, they would gain the confidence and security required to continue building long-term assets and investments in India, ensuring uninterrupted economic engagement even during global fluctuations, he said. Expressing concern over rising security issues affecting the Indian community in Canada, especially incidents involving people from Punjab, he said dual citizenship would give diaspora families a greater sense of protection and reassurance, along with legal clarity and stronger institutional backing from India. The forum further highlighted that dual citizenship would significantly enhance Indias economic, cultural and diplomatic influence worldwide. By empowering millions of Indians abroad, India would amplify its soft power and strengthen its standing in international decision-making. Economically, dual citizenship could unlock record levels of investment into India. With deeper emotional and legal ties, NRIs would be encouraged to make long-term commitments in manufacturing, technology, real estate, infrastructure and startups, he said. In the technological domain, the benefits would also be transformative. Dual citizenship would make knowledge transfer, research collaboration and cross-border innovation more seamless, helping India accelerate its transition into a high-tech global leader. The forum added that tourism, philanthropy and community-led development initiatives would naturally rise with the introduction of dual citizenship. More frequent travel, simpler compliance rules and renewed emotional belonging would encourage diaspora families to contribute more actively to India through humanitarian work, educational support and charitable initiatives. IndUS Canada urged policymakers, including Prime Minister Modi, to take cognisance of this long-standing demand of the global Indian community. The forum stressed that dual citizenship is not merely a privilege but a powerful pathway for unleashing Indias full potential on the world stage.
Indias first all-in-one Tesla Motors facility inaugurated in Gurugram
CHANDIGARH: The countrys first all-in-one Tesla India Motors centre in Gurugram was inaugurated by Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini on Thursday. The new facility brings retail, after-sales service, delivery and charging together under one roof. Elon Musk-led EV makers centre is in Sector 48 at Orchid Business Park in Gurugram. The two centres opened earlier at Bandra Kurla Complex in Mumbai and Aerocity in Delhi only displayed vehicles, but this centre will provide all major services. CM Saini expressed confidence that Tesla will establish its first electric vehicle manufacturing plant and other related Tesla units in the state. He added that AI hubs are being established in Gurugram and Panchkula to promote AI-based startups and research. Saini said that the Haryana Government is consistently working to reduce the cost of doing business for industries in the state. As part of these efforts, a special leasing policy has been introduced for industrial plots. He added that the local supply chain is also being strengthened in collaboration with industries already established in the region. He further stated that, to ensure effective dialogue with foreign companies and governments, the Haryana Government has set up the Department of Foreign Cooperation, which is actively facilitating collaborations with global investors. He highlighted that a robust Ease of Doing Business ecosystem has been created to accelerate industrial development, due to which Haryana emerged as a leader in the Top Achievers category of the Ease of Doing Business rankings. He also said that Haryana takes pride in its automobile sector, which manufactures the highest number of passenger cars in India. Saini said that the Haryana Government has taken significant steps to free businesses from red tape by amending outdated laws that no longer serve todays needs. He added that the government notified the Public Trust Ordinance, 2025, on October 11, which decriminalises 164 provisions across 42 state acts. He stated that, as a result of the Haryana Governments progressive policies, 12,20,872 micro, small, and medium enterprises have been established in the state over the last 11 years, employing 49.15 lakh people. He said that Haryana is the land of the Gita, where work is not limited to B-to-B or G-to-G models, but is carried out on an H-to-H or heart-to-heart model. He stated that Haryana aims to significantly increase its contribution to the national economy by achieving a $1 trillion target by 2047. He added that the state is actively promoting new startups, innovation, and tech-based industries, with major global brands like Tesla playing an important role in this vision. He stated that Haryana has emerged as the seventh-largest state in India in terms of the number of startups, with over 9,100 recognised startups currently operating in the state. He added that AI hubs are being established in Gurugram and Panchkula to promote AI-based startups and research. To support emerging technologies, the state has also set up a Department of the Future, focused on AI, robotics, biotechnology, and deep-tech. Additionally, a separate MSME department has been established, and an online facility for filing entrepreneurial memorandums has been launched to further promote micro, small, and medium enterprises.
Air pollution levels across north India are significantly higher than national average: Report
CHANDIGARH: The air pollution levels across North India are significantly higher than the national average as per the latest report released by Centre for Research on Energy and Clean Air (CREA), an independent research organisation. The report stated that Delhi, along with Punjab, Assam and Tripura, was identified as a year-round pollution hotspot failing to meet PM 2.5 standard even during the monsoons. On the other hand, the southern states recorded the lowest values. The report titled, Beyond City Limits: A Satellite-Based PM-2.5 Assessment Across Indias Airsheds, States and Districts, stated that all the 23 districts of Punjab, 22 of Haryana and 12 of Himachal Pradesh exceeded the annual National Ambient Air Quality Standard (NAAQS) of 40 ug/m3 for PM 2.5 concentration last year. During summer, winter and post-monsoon periods, PM 2.5 concentrations exceeded the NAAQS limits in these states. During the monsoon, 15 out of 23 districts in Punjab, 5 out of 22 in Haryana and 2 out of 12 districts in Himachal Pradesh exceeded the air quality limit. It read, Delhi recorded the highest pollution levels with an annual mean PM 2.5 concentration of 101 g/m, 2.5 times the Indian standard and 20 times the World Health Organisation (WHO). The pollution crisis extends across northern India, with the average PM 2.5 concentrations in all states in these regions, including Delhi, Chandigarh, Haryana, Punjab, Uttar Pradesh, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, and Jammu & Kashmir, exceeding the National Ambient Air Quality Standard (NAAQS). This concentration of pollution aligns with their location in the Indo-Gangetic Plain. The eastern and northeastern states showed similarly concerning levels, with PM 2.5 average concentrations in Bihar, West Bengal, Jharkhand, Odisha, Assam, Meghalaya, Nagaland, Tripura, and Arunachal Pradesh all above the NAAQS. Among western states, the mean concentrations in Rajasthan and Gujarat exceeded the annual national standard, it added. While the southern states presented the lowest PM 2.5 values, Puducherry recorded the lowest concentration at 25 g/m, followed by Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Sikkim, Telangana, Kerala, and Andhra Pradesh. The report stated that Delhi consistently ranks as the most polluted city across all seasons, highlighting the capital's year-round air quality crisis. While Chandigarh appears in the top five during three seasons (winter, summer, and post-monsoon), West Bengal also ranks among the worst across the winter and post-monsoon seasons. Punjab and Haryana emerged as major air-pollution concerns, with Punjab during the monsoon and post-monsoon periods and Haryana during the summer and post-monsoon periods. The northeastern states present an unexpected pollution hotspot, with Assam and Tripura featuring in the top five in three seasons (winter, summer, and monsoon). Overall, 60 per cent of districts (447 out of 749) exceed the National Ambient Air Quality Standard (NAAQS) for annual PM 2.5. None of the districts met the World Health Organisation (WHO) guideline of less than 5 g/m. The most polluted districts are heavily concentrated in a few states, highlighting regional clustering of severe air quality issues. Delhi (11 districts) and Assam (11 districts) alone account for nearly half of the top 50, followed by Bihar (7) and Haryana (7). Other notable contributors include Uttar Pradesh (4), Tripura (3), Rajasthan (2), West Bengal (2), and single districts from Chandigarh, Meghalaya and Nagaland, it reads. It further added, Several states are in universal non-compliance, where all monitored districts exceed the NAAQS. These include Delhi, Assam, Punjab, Haryana, Chandigarh, Himachal Pradesh, Meghalaya, Tripura, and Jammu and Kashmir. Several other states show a large majority of districts breaching the norm, such as Bihar (37 of 38), West Bengal (22 of 23), Gujarat (32 of 33), Nagaland (11 of 12), Rajasthan (30 of 33), and Jharkhand (21 of 24). A second group shows mixed performance, where some districts meet the standard but many continue to exceed it. This includes Uttar Pradesh (49 of 75 districts exceeding), Odisha (22 of 30), Madhya Pradesh (27 of 52), and Maharashtra (14 of 36). In the Northeast, Arunachal Pradesh (12 exceed, 13 comply) and Manipur (five exceed, 11 comply) also fall in this transitional category. At the other end of the spectrum, several states have the majority of their districts below NAAQS, such as Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Kerala, Sikkim, Goa, Karnataka, and Tamil Nadu. These contrasting patterns highlight the continued dominance of northern and eastern states in Indias PM 2.5 pollution hotspots, while southern and coastal regions remain relatively cleaner. The report stated that the states should develop district-level air quality action plans, guided by satellite data to identify hotspots, prioritise high-exposure populations, and allocate mitigation resources efficiently. The satellite-derived PM 2.5 data should be formally integrated into NCAP for spatially comprehensive assessment and performance tracking. Also, establishing protocols for validation, periodic updates, and public dissemination of satellite-based estimates will strengthen transparency and enable real-time decision-making in areas lacking ground monitors.
Narrow escape for passenger train as speeding truck falls on tracks from overbridge
LUCKNOW: A major mishap was narrowly avoided late Wednesday night when a trailer truck loaded with wooden plies fell off the RamnagarFatehpur flyover in Barabanki and crashed onto the up-line track near Burhwal Junction on the BarabankiGonda route. The incident occurred just as the AmritsarSaharsa Garib Rath Express (12204) was passing on the adjacent down line, but no passengers were injured. The truck broke through the bridge railing and plunged nearly 25 feet onto the tracks, while a large stone from the flyover struck the roof of coach G2. Debris from the broken railing hit the trains upper section, though the train escaped without major damage. Rail traffic on both Barabanki and Gonda-bound tracks was halted, and relief teams rushed from Gonda station to clear the site. Services were restored after six hours, affecting about 24 trains. The Garib Rath resumed its onward journey to Bihar around 3.30 am. This incident was reminiscent of a similar accident on August 16, 2022, when the LucknowChandigarh Express narrowly escaped a major derailment after a milk truck plunged from a railway overbridge onto the track between Mundha Pande and Rampur stations. In the present case, the impact of the falling trailer truck shattered the windowpanes of the coach and caused heavy damage to its roof. The loud crash frightened passengers and triggered panic inside the train. The loco pilot immediately applied emergency brakes and brought the train to a halt. On the adjacent track, the cabin of the trailer truck was crushed, trapping the driver inside. After two hours of effort, rescuers cut open the cabin to pull out the driver, identified as Pankaj Kumar from Gonda. He was taken to the hospital in critical condition. Railway officials arrived shortly after the incident, and a mechanical team replaced the broken windows of the G2 coach. According to details, the trailer truck (UP 43 AT 9967) was travelling on the RamnagarFatehpur road, about 30 km from Barabanki. It was loaded with plywood and heading from Sitapur to Bihar. Around 9.30 pm, while crossing the flyover near Burhwal station, the driver lost control, and the truck fell nearly 25 feet onto the railway tracks just as the Garib Rath Express was passing on the adjacent line. The fall of the truck damaged the electric supply line, and several electric poles bent under the impact. A stone from the flyover broke off and struck one of the trains coaches. As rescue teams reached the spot, the truck was removed from the tracks. After repairs and an engine replacement, the train was allowed to move again nearly six hours later. Fortunately, no passenger was hurt. Barabanki SP Arpit Vijayvargiya said he received information around 9.30 pm that a dumper loaded with plywood had gone out of control and fallen onto the railway track. A police team and the fire brigade reached the spot immediately. The fallen truck caused stones to hit the train, damaging one of its coaches, but no passengers were injured. Once the damaged coach was inspected and cleared, the train was allowed to move ahead. The debris on the track was removed, and train services have now resumed.
62.50% of groundwater samples from Punjab have uranium levels above safety threshold limit: Report
CHANDIGARH: A staggering 62.50 per cent of groundwater samples from Punjab have uranium levels above the safety threshold limit, the highest contamination intensity ever recorded in the country, followed by Haryana, Delhi, Karnataka and Uttar Pradesh. This fact was revealed in the latest Annual Ground Water Quality Report 2025 by the Central Ground Water Board (CGWB) under the Ministry of Jal Shakti. Meanwhile, across the country, nitrate contamination was the most widespread, followed by fluoride and salinity. As per the report, the highest intensity of uranium contamination was recorded in the state, as 53.04 per cent of samples exceeded the permissible limit before the monsoon and 62.50 per cent afterwards. It highlighted that uranium concentrations exceeding the safe limit of 30 ppb were detected sporadically in Punjab, Haryana, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, and Rajasthan. A total of 3,754 groundwater samples were tested across India during Pre- and Post-Monsoon 2024 to check uranium concentration. Samples with uranium levels above the safe limit of 30 ppb were found in 6.71 per cent during the Pre-Monsoon and 7.91 per cent during the post-monsoon, showing a slight increase after rainfall. The highest uranium contamination was observed in Punjab, where over half of the samples (53.04 per cent pre-monsoon and 62.50 per cent post-monsoon) exceeded the limit, it read. Meanwhile, Haryana also reported significant levels, with 15 per cent of pre-monsoon and 23.75 per cent of post-monsoon samples above the limit, followed by Delhi, Karnataka, and Uttar Pradesh. High levels were also found in Haryana (1523.75 per cent), Delhi (1315.66 per cent), Karnataka (68 per cent), and Uttar Pradesh (56 per cent). Moderate contamination occurred in Rajasthan and Chhattisgarh, while most other states showed uranium levels within safe limits, it stated. The report further stated, Spatially, northwestern India (Punjab, Haryana, Delhi, parts of Rajasthan and Uttar Pradesh) emerged as the main hotspot of uranium contamination, likely due to geogenic factors, groundwater depletion, and aquifer characteristics. In contrast, eastern and southern India recorded minimal contamination. Overall, the study shows that while most groundwater in India is safe, certain regions face rising uranium levels, emphasising the need for regular monitoring and local mitigation measures to protect drinking water quality and health. Meanwhile, fluoride levels exceeding 1.5 mg/L were detected in 11.24 per cent of samples in Punjab, while the national exceedance was at 8.05 per cent. Interestingly, Rajasthan topped this category with 41.06 per cent, followed by Haryana with 21.82 per cent. High fluoride occurrences are prominently observed in the arid and semi-arid regions of Rajasthan, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, and parts of Odhisa. Excessive fluoride in groundwater used for drinking poses a significant health concern, as prolonged consumption can lead to waterborne fluorosis, manifesting in dental and skeletal disorders, it stated. It adds that nitrate in drinking water is a serious health concern. It mainly comes from excessive use of fertilisers, animal waste, and sewage seeping into groundwater. In India, nearly 20.71 per cent of groundwater samples have been reported to exceed the permissible limit of 45 mg/L, as prescribed by the World Health Organisation (WHO) and the Bureau of Indian Standards (IS 10500) for drinking water quality, report states. In the pre-monsoon, Nitrate ranges from BDL to 2070 mg/L with a mean value of 32 mg/L. High nitrate concentrations are prominently observed in northwestern and central India, particularly in the states of Rajasthan, Haryana, Punjab, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, and Maharashtra, extending further into parts of Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, and Tamil Nadu. These areas correspond largely to alluvial and hard-rock aquifers, where intensive agricultural practices, excessive fertiliser application, and improper disposal of domestic and animal wastes contribute to nitrate enrichment. Elevated nitrate remained one of the most widespread contaminants. The highest levels in Rajasthan 50.54 per cent followed by Karnataka 45.47 per cent, and Tamil Nadu 36.27 per cent, Punjab 14.6 per cent and Haryana 14.18 per cent as the national exceedance was 20.71 per cent. Elevated nitrate levels in the Indo-Gangetic plains (Uttar Pradesh, Bihar and West Bengal) indicate impacts of shallow groundwater vulnerability due to unlined sanitation systems and leaching from agriculture fields. During the pre-monsoon period, about 73.53 per cent of samples were within the permissible limit, while 26.47 per cent exceeded it. In the post-monsoon period, compliance remained nearly similar, with 72.95 per cent of samples meeting the standard and 27.05 per cent exceeding it. Meanwhile, the Arsenic contamination in groundwater has been reported in several Indian states, including Assam, Bihar, Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, Punjab, and Uttar Pradesh. But it continued to pose a serious health hazard in the Indo-Gangetic alluvial belt, with major contributions from West Bengal, Bihar, Punjab, Jammu and Kashmir, and parts of Uttar Pradesh and Assam. Punjab reported 9.1 per cent pre-monsoon and 9.5 per cent post-monsoon exceedance, placing it among the significant contributors despite wide variations between districts. Due to high Residual Sodium Carbonate (RSC) irrigation water could lead to alkalinity buildup, soil degradation, and declining crop yields if left unmanaged. As this index determines whether irrigation water can damage soil structure and long-term land productivity, as 11.27 per cent of groundwater samples nationally exceeded the permissible limit of 2.5 meq/L, indicating sodicity hazards in several areas. The highest in Delhi at 51.11 per cent followed by Uttarakhand 41.94 per cent, Andhra Pradesh 26.87 per cent, Punjab 24.60 per cent and Rajasthan 24.42 per cent. The other parameter was Electrical Conductivity, which is a marker of water salinity, and topped the list with 47.12 per cent, followed by Delhi 33.33 per cent, Haryana 0.59 per cent and Gujarat 18.28 per cent recorded the highest percentages of samples above the BIS permissible limit of 3000 S/cm. Meanwhile, Punjab recorded 7.01 per cent of samples above the limit. Due to excessive saline water, agricultural productivity is affected. The report concluded that the Central Groundwater Board has undertaken an extensive assessment of groundwater quality across India during the Pre-Monsoon and Post-Monsoon periods of 2024, covering approximately 5368 monitoring wells. About 71.67 per cent of samples complied with BIS standards, while 28.32 per cent exceeded permissible limits for one or more parameters.
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