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.
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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.
AICC General Secretary KC Venugopal on Monday asserted that the Congress is poised to form the next government in Punjab in February 2027, alleging that five years of Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) rule have pushed the border state into distress marked by rampant unemployment, a collapsed law-and-order machinery, and state patronage to the drug mafia. Addressing reporters in Chandigarh following a series of organisational meetings with the state leadership, Venugopal expressed firm confidence that grassroots feedback indicates a decisive political shift in favour of the Congress. Meetings with DCC Presidents, senior leaders, contested candidates, and one-to-one meetings with leaders, MLAs, and MPs were held. We got input from all the leaders of Punjab. That is why I am very much confident now that Congress is going to form the government in Punjab in February 2027, Venugopal said. He further announced that Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, will take the political fight stra...
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.
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.
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Bank holiday tomorrow, October 26: Banks to remain closed in select cities, check state-wise list
Bank holiday tomorrow, October 26, 2026, will affect select cities, including Agartala, Chandigarh, Jammu, Shimla and Srinagar, for regional observances. Banks are not scheduled to close nationwide. Check the state-wise list to see where branches are expected to remain shut and whether your local bank is likely to operate as usual.
Rahul Gandhi to visit Punjabs Sangrur on Nov 4 Chandigarh: Punjab Congress President Pargat Singh said on Sunday that Rahul Gandhi, Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha, will visit the states Sangrur district on November 4. The visit will be significant for the Congress as it is preparing for the 2027 Punjab Assembly elections. He [] The post Rahul Gandhi to visit Punjabs Sangrur on Nov 4 appeared first on Mangalorean.com .
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Ranji Trophy: Chhattisgarhs Consecutive Home Games Shifted Out Due To No NGT Clearance
Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International: Chhattisgarhs back-to-back home matches against Andhra and Hyderabad, in the 2026/27 Ranji Trophy have been moved out of the Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International Stadium in Raipur after the National Green Tribunal (NGT) did not give them the clearance for hosting the games. As a result, Chhattisgarhs Elite Group B clash against Andhra, which begins on Monday, will now be played at the DVR Ground in Mulapadu, near Vijayawada, as what was meant to be a home fixture for them has turned into an away one. The sides fourth-round game against Hyderabad has also been shifted out of the state capital and is likely to be played in their opponents city. Yes, the consecutive home games of Chhattisgarh in Ranji Trophy have been moved out of Raipur. Its because the NGT has not yet given them clearance to host games, a source aware of the developments said to IANS on Sunday. It is not to be noted that in July, the tribunal had allowed for Raipur to host the three womens T20Is between India and Zimbabwe, which were played last week, on the condition that it deposits Rs 20 lakh for groundwater recharge with the Chhattisgarh Environment Conservation Board. But for the Ranji Trophy games, it didnt get the green signal, with the tribunal setting next hearing date on December 9. They had given special permission only for three womens T20Is between India and Zimbabwe held last week. For hosting the two home Ranji Trophy games, it could have been done, as they have completed all the compliance. But the NGT is asking for a heavy amount for staging those games around Rs 20 lakhs per match, added the source. The development has also cast a shadow over the other fixtures Chhattisgarh is lined up to host this season. There are a few more board games Chhattisgarh is due to host so lets see what happens to it in the future. There are more grounds present in the state, but its just that they are not upto that level of the stadium situated in Raipur. Chhattisgarh has struggled in its two away outings so far, drawing with Saurashtra before going down to Punjab in New Chandigarh. With just one point from two matches, Chhattisgarh is seventh in the group and needs favourable results to move up in the points table. The development has also cast a shadow over the other fixtures Chhattisgarh is lined up to host this season. There are a few more board games Chhattisgarh is due to host so lets see what happens to it in the future. There are more grounds present in the state, but its just that they are not upto that level of the stadium situated in Raipur. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
Banks in several Indian cities will be closed on October 26 in observance of several regional holidays. Full details here.
Shardul Thakur set to miss Mumbai's Ranji Trophy clash against Haryana
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Oct 25 (IANS) Mumbai Ranji Team will be without the services of their experienced all-rounder Shardul Thakur, as he continues to recover from a finger injury and is set to miss the Elite round three clash against Haryana, which will be played at the BKC Complex from Monday. Thakur, who has been sidelined since sustaining the injury during a training session ahead of the seasons opening round, has not regained full match fitness despite returning to training with the Mumbai squad. He was initially expected to miss at least the first two rounds, with the team hoping he would be available for the Haryana fixture. Mumbai, however, have decided against rushing his return and will field the same squad that registered a convincing victory over Himachal Pradesh in Bilaspur in their previous match, according to Cricinfo. The 34-year-old last featured in the Duleep Trophy quarter-final for West Zone against North Zone in late August. He took one wicket in 14 overs and scored 10 runs in his only innings as West Zone suffered a 54-run defeat. While working towards his return to competitive cricket, Thakur is also set to take up commentary duties for some of Indias ongoing T20 Internationals against New Zealand. Mumbai have made an impressive start to their Ranji Trophy campaign, securing consecutive innings victories to collect 14 points and move to the top of Elite Group D. They opened their campaign with an innings-and-155-run win over Chandigarh at the Wankhede Stadium before defeating Himachal Pradesh by an innings and 97 runs in Bilaspur. Mumbai will continue to manage their resources carefully with several players unavailable. Vice-captain Ayush Mhatre is recovering from a hamstring injury, while opener Yashasvi Jaiswal is in New Zealand for the upcoming Test series after featuring in the India A series. Haryana, meanwhile, also enter the contest after winning their opening two matches, setting up a meeting between the top two teams in the group.
Delhi U-19 Coach Nayyar Seeks Two-week Camp To Iron Out Flaws Before Cooch Behar Trophy
Cooch Behar Trophy: New Delhi, Oct 24 (PTI) Delhi U-19 mens team coach Rajeev Nayyar said he has requested the Delhi and District Cricket Association (DDCA) to set up a two-week camp for improving their fielding and fitness for the Cooch Behar Trophy. He added that the association has assured him of time for having a camp ahead of the red-ball competition starting on November 26. The development comes after Delhi had a disappointing Vinoo Mankad Trophy campaign, where they finished at the bottom of their group. These kids have not grown up yet. They listen to their coaches. A 16 to 19-year-old kid listens. So, I had time and spoke to the officials. I said, See, its Diwali, and there are more holidays in between, like Karva Chauth. I told them that I want a camp for one to two weeks. We are lacking in fielding and fitness, so we will work on it, as well as do match simulations, because when you play practice matches, you are playing against each other, and you have already played against each other before. We are not playing friendly matches against other states. We will be playing intra-squad games because we dont have time. I told them this is better. The rest is up to the DDCA officials - the final call is theirs. It will be as per what they say. Whenever the camp is set up, I will share my playing experiences of 20 years with all the players, Nayyar told IANS in a free-wheeling chat. Nayyar said fielding and fitness would take priority over skills whenever the camp happens. When a kid plays cricket, I first check whether he is fit or not. If he is fit, then he will bat, bowl and field. Secondly, I will look at his fielding. Fielding is very important because even after making 100 runs, if you give away 10 runs in the field and drop a catch, that batter can go on to score a hundred. So, skills come later, and thats why I was thinking that this time, God willing, we will get a camp of two weeks, and I will work on our fielding and fitness. After that, skills work will continue, but I will pay more attention to fielding and fitness. Nayyar wants his players to use the camp to identify their own weaknesses, so they head into the four-day competition without any glaring flaws. Being a coach, no matter how the team is, I have to share my experiences and keep the players motivated, because we are in a very good pool. We have Himachal and Chandigarh. Our first match is against Punjab at Ropar. Then we have a match in Hyderabad, and then a match against Rajasthan. There are five good teams. But we dont say their team is good and our team isn't. We will say our team is better than theirs. I always tell the kids to believe in themselves. You have to believe in yourself. You are the best. When you walk onto the ground, you shouldnt have any flaws. Errors should be rectified before the match, in the nets. If there is a camp, players should tell us, Sir, I want high catches. I want slip catches. I want short catches. I am weak against left-arm bowling, off-spin, or the short ball. I just want the boys to practise a lot so that there are no weaknesses when the Cooch Behar Trophy begins. The request for a longer build-up to the Cooch Behar Trophy comes after Delhi were left short of preparation time for the Vinoo Mankad Trophy. The side opened with a commanding chase of 339 against Gujarat but then lost to Himachal Pradesh by 35 runs and were routed by Karnataka by 198 runs. Their match against Jharkhand was washed out, and a five-wicket defeat to Chandigarh left them at the bottom of the Group E table. Nayyar said the team had only a brief period to come and practise together, before playing for the age-group tournament. In the elite stage, all the teams were good Karnataka, Jharkhand, Himachal Pradesh, Chandigarh and Gujarat. But our start to the season was good. We won the first game against Gujarat by chasing 339. I was so happy with such a good start, because I had been a coach with the UTCA team before, and then I was the coach of the Ranji Trophy team. When I got the responsibility of coaching the under-19 teams, I understood that this is the phase where we get to know whether a kid will play for India or not and whether he is focused or not. In the under-19s, players can get to play for India in the World Cup as well. That is a very important tournament for them. He also felt the washout against Jharkhand proved costly. In the remaining four matches, we had to win the fourth game. They batted first and scored 280. But what happened? I mean, with VJD, we needed 80 runs in 10 overs. We should have changed that. But, unfortunately, by the time we had 230 runs, it rained heavily. So, we missed out on that game. If we had won that match, we would have got two points, and we would automatically have finished third, ahead of UTCA. This happened because they won two matches from the fourth game onwards. If we had won the fourth match against Jharkhand, we would have got the two points as well and finished third. That was it. With the Cooch Behar Trophy next on the calendar, Nayyar stressed the importance of red-ball cricket in young players by stating that the IPL alone would not take them into the Indian team. I was in Delhi and had a word with the officials, because I know a lot about red-ball cricket. I have played more than 100 matches. But nowadays, players are not interested in playing four-day games. They just love to play T20s and are more interested in it because they are only watching the IPL. But we have to make the kids understand that red-ball and first-class cricket are very important, because the IPL alone wont take you into the India team. How many people get to play for India? In the IPL, they perform well. They are selected for Indias T20 and one-day teams as well. But Indias Test teams are selected on the basis of four-day matches. See, if you know how to play a four-day game, you can play one-day and T20 cricket easily. But for those who only know how to play one-day and T20 cricket, the longer format is difficult. There are very few kids who are able to play T20, one-day, Test and four-day games. It is very difficult to play all of them, but it is not impossible. Nayyar said Delhis talent pool had thinned since his playing days but credited the DDCA for taking the initiative to create more playing opportunities. At one time, when I used to play Ranji Trophy, there were 10 Test players in the Delhi dressing room who had played for India. It is not like that now. But there is potential. The DDCA is doing a lot for the players. Now there is the DPL, which is just like the IPL. I am very thankful to the president, Rohan Jaitley Sir, who has done such a great job for the kids and the officials as well. I was watching all the games. Every year, the DPL is improving. When players are getting everything from the association, they have to give back to the association as well. This is very important. It is a very good platform. I am not blaming the academies, but kids go to an academy, bat, bowl and come back home. The DDCA is doing a lot for the players. Now there is the DPL, which is just like the IPL. I am very thankful to the president, Rohan Jaitley Sir, who has done such a great job for the kids and the officials as well. I was watching all the games. Every year, the DPL is improving. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
PVG Raju ACA Sports Complex: Aaryavir Sehwag has the potential to play for India, but he needs to take things one step at a time to play senior international cricket in future, said Delhi U-19 mens head coach Rajeev Nayyar. Aaryavir, the elder son of former India opener Virender Sehwag, is coming off captaining Delhi in their 2026/27 Vinoo Mankad Trophy campaign, with his highlight being hitting a brilliant 173 off 143 balls with 19 fours and 8 sixes against Chandigarh at the PVG Raju ACA Sports Complex in Vizianagaram. Earlier, he had been scoring well but he wasnt converting starts into centuries, so we had a chat (before the game). I can honestly say he has a great batting style, but after reaching 40-50 runs, he was losing his wicket. I was having a chat with him in the room and said you dont need to worry about playing against the other boys in the DDCA. Look around and see who is scoring runs. There is Rahul Dravids son (Anvay), who scored 158 and 85-90 against us. You have competition. Im not saying you have to be envious, but know that you have competition. You have to look all over the Vinoo Mankad Trophy and country and know that you need to be the highest run-scorer. So I told him you need to convert your scores into centuries. If you bat for 50 overs you will definitely score 200 runs. Many people have asked me if he will play for India. I said it is still early. India is a big country and everybody is playing cricket but he has quality to play. But he has to take it one step at a time. He is still in under 19 team. Maybe he will play in the U-23s and then the Ranji Trophy and Duleep Trophy. Then he will play for India A and eventually that path leads to playing for India, Nayyar told IANS in a free-wheeling chat. That superlative effort, though, went in vain, as Delhi couldnt get the win over Chandigarh. Though Delhi didnt progress to knockouts after finishing at the bottom of Group E standings, that blistering knock has potentially earned Aaryavir, who previously played in India U-19 ODI series against Australia in Rajkot last month, a spot in Indias squad for the Asia Cup, to be played in Al Amarat, Oman from November 5-14. With the Parvinder Awana-led selection committee taking charge, the squad is expected to be revealed in coming days. He has an awesome batting style. In cricket there are two types of batters - defensive and strokeplay. He is a strokeplay batter and I told him, We do not have a deep batting line-up, so if you stay out there as a captain you are setting an example. You are showing that you have leadership qualities. You have to show you can play. That will become a habit. I dont want him to lose his wicket in the 40s and 50s and sit outside in the dressing room. I dont like it. Everyone is watching him. He has to be careful. As a coach I definitely want him to score in every game, added Nayyar. Interestingly, Nayyar has a long-standing relationship with the Sehwag family. In December 1999, he formed an unbreakable 381-run 5th wicket partnership with Virender Sehwag while playing for North Zone against South Zone in Agartala. In that game, Sehwag came in at 149/4 and faced the formidable South Zone attack of Sunil Joshi, Venkatapathy Raju and Aashish Kapoor, along with Robin Singh and S Mahesh present in the team. He smashed 274 off 327 balls with 36 fours and 4 sixes in 416 minutes before getting stumped by Raju. Nayyar anchored the innings with 118 off 469 balls as North Zone scored 530/5. What has stood out is his confidence against the pacers. In the last game when he scored 173 it was incredible. I played with his father and the way he was hitting the ball. He didnt even move his feet. He hit some shots over cover. I was amazed by his confidence. He was hitting the ball over the fielders against the pacers. Most batters would be afraid to do it. They would think they wouldnt hit over the fielders against the pace bowlers. He batted brilliantly. When he came back he said 'Sir I know you arent happy. I should have scored 200.' I said yes but you are brilliant. He also took a brilliant catch in the slips after I asked who would take slips and he said 'Sir I will take that. Nayyar felt he saw shades of elder Sehwag in Aaryavir, but was impressed by the youngsters focus and dedication towards the game. I met him for the first time at the camp. I played with his father in the Duleep Trophy for 2 years and had that record partnership. Now I come to Aaryavir. He is a kid. If he is playing well and he scored 173 runs in that game then the credit doesnt go to me as the coach. It goes to his father and to the coach who has been there for the past 5-8-10 years. What can I say? I can share my experience. In the beginning he was scoring runs very quickly in the powerplay. As a coach, I can say he has that quality. Im not saying he bats like his dad but he is similar. Right? He is learning a lot. He hits some Papa wale shots (shots like his father). No doubt it is fun to watch but he is very focussed. When he loses his wicket, he sits outside and doesnt speak to anybody. He sits in a corner and reflects on what he did. He came up to me and said 'Sir Im really sorry. I shouldnt have played that shot.' He lost his wicket twice at mid-wicket against the off-spinner. I asked him why he was playing outside the line? The ball was a long way away. If you play the ball a little close to you, you will hit it along the ground. But if you dont reach the ball and play outside the line it will go in the air. Thats why you lost your wicket. He took my advice. I hope he gets picked for the India U-19 team for the Asia Cup. I hope he plays well because I told him Pakistan will be playing. He has to play well. He sits in a corner and reflects on what he did. He came up to me and said 'Sir Im really sorry. I shouldnt have played that shot.' He lost his wicket twice at mid-wicket against the off-spinner. I asked him why he was playing outside the line? The ball was a long way away. If you play the ball a little close to you, you will hit it along the ground. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
GoI appoints Sajjan Singh Yadav as J&K Chief Secretary
Srinagar, Oct 24:The Government of India on Saturday appointed Sajjan Singh Yadav as the new Chief Secretary of Jammu and Kashmir, replacing Atal Dulloo and ending weeks of speculation over J&Ks top administrative post. The order issued by the Ministry of Home Affairs said that Yadav was transferred from Delhi to Jammu and Kashmir and appointed as Chief Secretary from November 1, 2026, or the date he assumes office. Yadavs appointment marks a major change in J&K's administrative structure. Yadav becomes the first of the core AGMUT officers to take charge of the J&K administration after the exclusive J&K cadre was abolished in 2021 and merged into the broader AGMUT (Arunachal Pradesh, Goa, Mizoram, and Union Territories) pool. The decision also ends speculation supporting some other senior candidates in the succession race. Officers currently hold ing positions in J&K belonging to earlier batches and senior to Yadav include Shaleen Kabra of the 1992 batch who is Financial Commissioner and Additional Chief Secretary, Jal Shakti Department; Ashwani Kumar of the 1992 batch, who is Financial Commissioner (ACS), Power Development Department (PDD); Dheeraj Gupta of the 1993 batch who is Additional Chief Secretary to the Chief Minister; Ashish Chandra Verma of the 1994 batch who is Financial Commissioner and Additional Chief Secretary, Agriculture Production Department; Sheilender Kumar of the 1995 batch who is Additional Chief Secretary Finance Department; and Anil Kumar Singh of the 1995 batch who is Additional Chief Secretary Public Works Department (PWD). Apart from them, Bipul Pathak of the 1992 batch, Navin Chowdhary of the 1994 batch, and Rohit Kansal of the 1995 batch, all currently on deputation are also seniors to Yadav. The AGMUT cadre is responsible for Arunachal Pradesh, Goa, Mizoram, and eight Union Territories: the NCT of Delhi, Puducherry, J&K, Ladakh, the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Chandigarh, Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu, and Lakshadweep. Yadav, who is experienced in dealing with the complicated administrative arrangements of Union Territories, held the positions of Additional Chief Secretary and Chief Executive Officer at the Delhi Jal Board. He has done a postgraduate diploma in Public Policy from the Hubert Humphrey School from Minnesota University, a Masters in Finance from Delhi University, and a Masters in Economics from Harvard University. The bureaucratic transition takes place at a politically sensitive time in J&K. After years of direct central rule, when an elected assembly was restored, the new Chief Secretary had to deal with a special kind of power-sharing situation. In the present arrangement under the Union Territory system, the Lieutenant Governor, appointed by the Centre, maintains control over important matters like Police, public order, and the Indian Administrative Service (IAS) bureaucracy, while the elected Chief Minister leads the civilian government. The Chief Secretary in J&K is responsible for coordinating the work of the various government departments. The post is essential for putting administrative decisions into effect and for handling the relationship between the bureaucracy, the elected government, and the Lieutenant Governors administration. That a senior officer drawn from the wider Union Territory cadre has been appointed to lead J&K bureaucracy is significant at a time when administrative coordination and the allocation of responsibilities between the elected government and the Centre are still politically sensitive. No reason was given in the order issued by the Ministry of Home Affairs for refusing to grant an extension to the outgoing Chief Secretary, Atal Dulloo, a member of the original J&K batch who turned sixty on Saturday and is set to retire on October 31. Dulloo has held the position of Chief Secretary since December 2023. Earlier, it was reported that Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha had suggested a one-year extension for Dulloo. However, the final decision had to be made by the competent authority in charge of approving the appointment and the arrangements for service. Dulloo has left behind an administrative legacy of handling the large-scale security and logistical requirements of the 2024 Lok Sabha elections and of J&Ks first Assembly elections in 10 years. However, a rift started between him and the civilian government during his last weeks in office. Dulloo was involved in a row concerning a proposal aimed at restoring J&Ks statehood, a politically sensitive matter. Dulloo and the administrations Law Secretary had sent a letter to Legislative Assembly Speaker Abdul Rahim Rather to oppose the introduction and discussion of the resolution, citing legal concerns as the reason. Chief Minister Omar Abdullah strongly objected to the intervention, and the action in question aroused criticism from the Members of Parliament as well as leading to a privilege-motion notice being tabled against the officials. The controversy intensified the questions concerning the relationship between the bureaucracy and the elected government led by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, which came into office in 2024 after a period of direct administration by the central government. Although the Government of India has not officially confirmed that the dispute over statehood was the reason why the government rejected Dulloos extension, the fact that the transition has taken place shows that administrative control in J&K is still being readjusted. It also raises questions regarding Dulloos next task. According to reports, Dulloo is being considered for the post of Chairman of the Jammu and Kashmir Public Service Commission, which currently has no chairman. However, there has not been any official announcement regarding the matter.
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