Chandigarh Secures Second Place in Cleanliness Rankings for 2025-26
Chandigarh ranks second in the Swachh Survekshan 2025-26, showcasing its commitment to cleanliness and urban management. Chandigarh Secures Second Place in Cleanliness Rankings for 2025-26
Bihar: Liquor worth Rs 50 lakh seized; four Rajasthan smugglers arrested
Digital Desk | Patna, Nov 11 (IANS) Bihar Police have seized foreign-made liquor worth approximately Rs 50 lakh and arrested four alleged smugglers from Rajasthan in Patna district ahead of the Chhath festival on Wednesday. A total of 435 cartons containing 3,830.760 litres of liquor were recovered during a raid near a Bharat Petroleum pump in Muktakapur village, under Fatuha police station limits. Acting on a tip-off that a large consignment of foreign liquor had been stored at the location, police formed a special team under the leadership of Inspector Ajit Kumar. The team conducted a raid at around 2 a.m. on Wednesday and found 435 cartons of liquor stocked at the premises. The estimated market value of the seized consignment is around Rs 50 lakh. During the investigation, police found that the liquor bottles carried labels indicating that they were meant for sale in Chandigarh, Punjab and Haryana. The four arrested accused have been identified as Devaram, Bishnaram, Dayaram and Dinesh Kumar. All are residents of the Sindhari police station area in Rajasthan's Barmer district. Police have taken the four men into custody for questioning to ascertain the source of the consignment and identify those who were supposed to receive and distribute the liquor in Bihar. Following the raid, the premises used for storing the liquor were sealed. Investigators are now attempting to establish the entire smuggling network and identify other people involved in the illegal trade, including suspected links in Bihar and other states. Police said further action would be taken based on the information obtained during the interrogation of the arrested accused. The accused have been booked under the relevant sections of the liquor prohibition act. They will be produced in the district court on Thursday for further legal proceedings. Liquor has been banned in Bihar since April 2016 after the then Chief Minister Nitish Kumar took the decision.
Congress launches Punjab Mangda Insaaf campaign ahead of State polls
Punjab Congress president Pargat Singh and Leader of Opposition (LoP) in the State Assembly Partap Singh Bajwa launched the campaign at the party headquarters in Chandigarh
3 passengers killed, 26 injured as speeding PRTC bus hits overbridge, overturns in fields in Punjab
Sanju Samson to lead Keralam in Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy
Indian wicketkeeper-batter Sanju Samson will be leading Keralam in the upcoming Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy (SMAT) starting from November 14 onwards, reported Cricinfo. Samson's team will start their campaign against Madhya Pradesh at PCA Stadium in New Chandigarh from November 14. Vishnu Vinod, Keralam's red-ball captain, is also part of the 18-member squad alongside domestic stalwart Jalaj Saxena. Stars from Kerala Cricket League (KCL) have been rewarded too, with top-order batter Ahammed Imran, Govind Dev, the batting allrounder making it to the squad. Right-arm pacer KM Asif and left-arm spinner Vignesh Puthur add more firepower to the squad. Keralam are placed in Group C alongside Madhya Pradesh, Andhra Pradesh, Assam, Himachal Pradesh, Maharashtra, Puducherry and Tripura. Last season under Samson, they failed to make it to the knockouts, finishing fourth in their group. Samson has not had a productive run as of late in New Zealand, firing scores of 14, 18, 4 and 4 after a quickfire 6...
AAP block samiti member guns down brother over land dispute
Will oppose BJP if it allies with SAD: Giani Harpreet
Punjab to begin potash exploration by May 2027: Minister
Punjab govt transfers 20 IAS officers, appoints 6 new DCs
Dhumal, Shanta Kumar hail SC decision on BBMB dues, credit successive govts for victory
Parwanoo most polluted in HP on Diwali
HP announces Rs 1 cr risk fund for trout farmers
Boy dead as car ploughs into bystanders
Punjab signs skill development pacts for automotive, footwear and fashion sectors
BJP questions HP govts 4-year record, seeks white paper on investment
Dhillon questions AAP govts failure to manage crop residue
GMCH Project Assistant Recruitment 2026
Government Medical College & Hospital, Chandigarh (GMCH) has released the notification for the post of Project Assistant. Eligible candidates can submit their offline applications till 23 November 2026. Further details are available at gmch.gov.in.
GMCH Chandigarh Lab Technician Recruitment 2026
Government Medical College & Hospital, Chandigarh, Department of Biochemistry (GMCH Chandigarh) has published the Recruitment 2026 notification for the post of Lab Technician. Offline applications will be accepted till 23 November 2026. For complete details, candidates can visit gmch.gov.in.
Punjabs rural CHCs face 84% specialist shortage
Government Medical College & Hospital, Chandigarh (GMCH) has published the Recruitment 2026 notification for the post of SRF. Offline applications will be accepted till 23 November 2026. For complete details, candidates can visit gmch.gov.in.
In 2026, 51 drug peddlers detained in Shimla: Police
PCS row escalates: Aspirants gherao Patiala office, demand CBI probe
Farm fires down 95% since 2020, dont blame Punjab for Delhi smog: Aman Arora
Rights panel orders statewide security audit after 32 guns stolen from Faridabad police station
Jind police book 8 farmers for stubble burning
Chennai to host 2029 Asian Athletics Championships, fourth time India to stage event
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Nov 11 (IANS) Chennai has been awarded the hosting rights for the 2029 Asian Athletics Championships, marking the fourth time that India will stage the continental event after previously hosting it in New Delhi, Pune and Bhubaneswar. The Asian Athletics Association announced the decision in a statement on Tuesday, saying the award was subject to the presentation of letters of guarantee from the government. Subject to presentation of letters of guarantee from the Govt, Asian Athletics Association is pleased to award the 2029 Asian Athletics Championships to Chennai, Tamil Nadu, the statement read. C. Latha, chairman of the Tamil Nadu Athletics Association (TNAA), said the championships are likely to be held in August. Speaking from Tokyo after attending the Asian Athletics Federation Council meeting on Tuesday, Latha said Chennais infrastructure and facilities were highlighted during the presentation made by the state. We made our presentation (the online presentation was made by Meghanatha Reddy, Member Secretary of SDAT) and highlighted the legacy of the Nehru Stadium in hosting international meets and the availability of the practice facility at the Nehru B ground. We also stressed that Chennai has an international airport and good hotels close to the venue. The State Government will, in any case, relay the main athletics track soon, Latha said. C.K. Valson, a member of the Competition Commission for Asian Athletics, had inspected the Nehru Stadium last week and was reportedly satisfied with the main track and practice ground. Valson was happy with the infrastructure. He told us to make arrangements for VIP lounges, modify the seating arrangements and install LED screens. All that remains is for the State Government to send a letter to the president of the Asia Athletics Federation confirming that it will bear the entire cost of hosting the meet, Latha added. India last hosted the Asian Athletics Championships in 2017 in Bhubaneswar, having previously staged the competition in New Delhi in 1989 and Pune in 2013. The award to Chennai adds to India's upcoming international athletics calendar. The country is also set to host the Asian Relays Championships in Chandigarh in 2027, followed by the Asian Indoor Championships and the World Indoor Championships in Odisha in 2028. Gujarat is also in contention to host the Under-20 World Championships in 2028.
Pakistan handlers behind drug, arms supply network busted in Mohali; four arrested
Court acquits two in NDPS case, calls STF version a 'dramatic and fictitious story'
Pinjore man alleges Rs 80L fraud in online investment scheme
Punjab poll: First-level checking of EVMs, VVPATs from tomorrow
AFT's Chandigarh Bench rules that Wing Commander Chandi is entitled to pension and other retirement benefits after modification of its 2015 judgment.
India Post, IndiGo hold 'Digital Detox 2.0' to promote handwritten Diwali greetings
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Nov 10 (IANS) The Department of Posts, in collaboration with IndiGo airlines, organised the second edition of its in-flight postcard writing activity, Digital Detox 2.0, offering air travellers an opportunity to send handwritten Diwali greetings and reconnect with the tradition, an official statement said on Tuesday. The statement from Ministry of Communications said the campaign was launched following the positive response to its inaugural edition as conducted across 15 IndiGo flights covering 11 destinations, including Chandigarh, Ranchi, Bagdogra, Delhi, Mumbai, Goa, Pune, Ahmedabad, Kolkata, Varanasi and Jaipur. Passengers were provided specially designed Digital Detox kits containing postcards, greeting cards and do-it-yourself (DIY) postcards through specially designed Diwali Stickers encouraging them to take a break from their screens and pen personalised festive messages. Passengers were provided with specially designed Digital Detox kits containing postcards, greeting cards and DIY postcards through specially designed Diwali Stickers encouraging them to take a break from their screens and pen personalised festive messages, the ministry stated. By bringing the experience of letter writing to air travellers, the campaign highlighted the enduring charm of personal correspondence in an increasingly digital world, the statement noted. One passenger remarked that writing a postcard at 30,000 feet was a wonderful experience and something he would remember for his lifetime. This was my first time writing a postcard. It made me realise how special handwritten messages can be in an age of instant digital communication, the statement cited another participant. Sending Diwali wishes through a handwritten postcard felt much more personal and meaningful than a digital message, another passenger said. India Post reaffirmed its commitment to innovative public outreach through Digital Detox 2.0, celebrating the timeless tradition of connecting people through letters while adding a personal touch to Diwali celebrations, the statement noted.
Congress to launch Punjab Mangda Insaaf campaign tomorrow
Digital Desk | Chandigarh, Nov 10 (IANS) Punjab Pradesh Congress Committee President Pargat Singh on Tuesday announced that the Punjab Mangda Insaaf campaign will be formally launched on November 11. Through this initiative, the Congress will establish direct communication with people, understand their problems, needs and expectations and raise their concerns effectively. Speaking to the media here, Pargat Singh said the campaign had already begun with the Insaaf Rally held in Sangrur on November 4. It would now be expanded across Punjab on a much larger scale. The Congress will engage directly with stakeholders from the IT sector, agriculture, various industries and other sections of society. Senior party leaders will participate in different programmes to understand people's concerns. Special public outreach programmes will be organised across the Malwa, Majha and Doaba regions. He said campaign committee chairman Charanjit Singh Channi would also reach out to people across different Assembly constituencies through the Jawani Sambhal, Jatta cycle rally. Five to six senior party leaders will lead the campaign in different regions and take the party's message to every household. Pargat Singh said Punjab is currently grappling with drugs, gangsterism, deteriorating law and order and conditions resembling a police state. Bureaucratic mismanagement was also creating difficulties for ordinary people and the youth. Students who appeared for the PCS examination had also met him and raised concerns regarding irregularities and mismanagement in the examination process. The Congress will raise all these issues as part of a comprehensive campaign and hold the government accountable. He alleged the Aam Aadmi Party government had worsened the situation in Punjab. Describing AAP as the BJPs B-team, he said the party had sought two years to eliminate the drug menace, but the situation remained alarming even today. He further alleged that Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann did not exercise actual control over the government and that Punjab was being run by Arvind Kejriwal and Manish Sisodia. The government had damaged the image and reputation of Punjab. The Congress would reach out to the poor, youth and ordinary citizens, understand their problems and bring their concerns into the mainstream political discourse.
First-level checking of EVMs, VVPAT machines in Punjab on Nov 12
Digital Desk | Chandigarh, Nov 10 (IANS) Ahead of the Assembly elections in Punjab, likely slated for February next year, the first-level checking of electronic voting machines (EVMs) and voter-verifiable paper audit trail (VVPAT) machines will commence in all districts from November 12, Chief Electoral Officer Anindita Mitra said on Tuesday. She said the first-level checking is an essential process prescribed by the Election Commission of India (ECI) to ensure that only fully functional and election-ready machines are used during the elections. As per the guidelines of the Election Commission, the first-level checking to be used in every general election and by-election is conducted under the supervision of the District Election Officer by authorised engineers of Bharat Electronics Ltd (BEL). The CEO said only those EVMs and VVPATs which successfully pass the first-level checking will be used in the elections. The detailed procedure will be conducted as per instructions of the Election Commission. The process will be conducted in accordance with the extant instructions of the Election Commission. All necessary arrangements have been made to ensure the smooth, transparent and systematic conduct of the first-level checking process. Mitra said the process will be conducted under the supervision of the District Election Officers concerned and will be monitored at the level of the Chief Electoral Officer as well as the Election Commission. The CEO further said that, to ensure complete transparency and accountability throughout the process, live webcasting of the entire process will be conducted at all 23 locations. Two display screens have been installed at each district headquarters so that representatives can closely observe proceedings. Dedicated screens have also been set up at the Chief Electoral Officer headquarters to oversee the entire process live. Also, the Election Commission has appointed observers to supervise these operations. She urged all recognised political parties to authorise their representatives to witness the first-level checking of EVMs and VVPAT machines. She emphasised that the presence of party representatives during the process would further strengthen transparency, build confidence among stakeholders and ensure that the entire process is carried out in a fair and impartial manner.
Punjab Police dismantles two arms supply networks; six held, 14 pistols seized
Digital Desk | Chandigarh, Nov 10 (IANS) In a major breakthrough, Amritsar Commissionerate Police has dismantled two separate illegal arms supply networks in the state with the arrest of six people and recovered 14 sophisticated pistols from their possession, said Punjab Director General of Police (DGP), Gaurav Yadav, here on Tuesday. Those arrested have been identified as Bobby Singh and Ravinder Singh, alias Manna, both residents of Talwandi Shoba Singh village in Tarn Taran; Gurpreet Singh, alias Preet, Kamal, and Ajay Singh, alias Kaka, all residents of Amritsar; and Swaran Singh, a resident of Panchkula in Haryana. The recovered pistols include one .30 bore TISAS Zigana, one .30 bore Zigana Eagle, one .30 bore (made in China), two 9mm pistols, seven .30 bore pistols, and two .32 bore pistols. DGP Yadav said preliminary investigation has revealed that the accused were allegedly in contact with foreign-based handlers through social media platforms, who facilitated the supply of illegal weapons through drone-based consignments. The accused allegedly collected these consignments and further supplied the weapons to individuals involved in criminal activities, he said. The DGP said further investigation is underway to identify other associates to dismantle the wider illegal arms supply networks. Sharing operational details, Commissioner of Police (Amritsar), Harmanbir Singh Gill, said that in the first operation police teams acting on inputs arrested five accused, Bobby Singh, Ravinder, Gurpreet, Kamal, and Ajay, and recovered six illegal pistols from their possession. He said in the second operation, police acted on specific information and apprehended Swaran Singh, recovering eight illegal pistols from his possession. In this regard, two separate cases, First Information Report (FIR) No. 272 dated November 2 under Sections 25 (6,7 and 8) of the Arms Act at Police Station Chheharta and FIR No. 207 dated November 8 under Sections 25 (6,7 and 8) of the Arms Act at Police Station Civil Lines were registered.
BJP slams Punjab govt on crop residue management
Digital Desk | Chandigarh, Nov 10 (IANS) Bharatiya Janata Party Punjab President Kewal Singh Dhillon on Tuesday mounted a counter-offensive against the Bhagwant Mann government over its failure to manage crop residue, asserting that the Aam Aadmi Party cannot escape its four-and-a-half-year record in the state by staging press conferences to blame Delhi. Dhillon stated that on November 4, 2022, party national convener Arvind Kejriwal publicly accepted responsibility for farm fires alongside Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, seeking one year to resolve the crisis. Over four years into its tenure, the Mann administration has failed to provide accessible alternatives, leaving farmers stranded. Posing five direct questions to the AAP dispensation, Dhillon asked: Where is the bio-decomposer? What happened to the Pusa bio-decomposer heavily promoted by AAP? How many acres were sprayed, what was the state-level expenditure, and what measurable results were achieved? The Central government released Rs 2,056.50 crore to Punjab under the Crop Residue Management (CRM) Scheme up to 2025-26. Where has every single rupee been spent, and how much has actually reached farmers? The state BJP chief asked. Where are the 94,456 CRM machines? The Agriculture Department claims 94,456 CRM machines were deployed. How many are operational, how many Custom Hiring Centres are functional, and how many marginal farmers can actually access them during the sowing window? Why no direct cash incentive? While Haryana provides Rs 1,000 to Rs 1,200 per acre to its farmers, why did the Punjab government fail to independently fund its promised Rs 2,500 per acre cash assistance? Why slap first information reports (FIRs) and red entries on farmers? Why is the Mann government booking small farmers under police sections and making punitive red entries in revenue records to conceal its own administrative paralysis? Dhillon demanded an immediate, independent audit of CRM machinery funds, an immediate rollback of punitive red entries against farmers, and practical per-acre financial support.
Nalagarh Shooting: Man Critical, Police Probe Dispute
A young man was critically injured after being shot by a neighbour in Nalagarh, Himachal Pradesh, on Tuesday. He sustained three bullet injuries and was shifted to PGIMER, Chandigarh, due to the critical nature of his abdominal wounds. Police have registered a case and are investigating the motive, while the incident highlights ongoing law-and-order concerns in the area.
Punjab records 4,657 stubble-burning cases; 1,442 FIRs, Rs 7.28 crore in fines
Punjab experienced a total of 4,657 stubble burning incidents reported until November 9, 2026. Police have filed 1,442 FIRs, and environmental fines totaling Rs 7.285 crore were imposed and partially recovered. The district of Tarn Taran had the highest number of incidents with 659 reported cases. Monitoring teams are actively inspecting and addressing stubble burning violations in several districts.
JKCA's Shambhavi Rajput earns India A U-19 call-up
Jammu, Nov 9: Jammu & Kashmir Cricket Association (JKCA) has expressed immense pride and happiness over the selection of its women cricketers at the national and zonal levels, marking another significant achievement for womens cricket in Jammu & Kashmir. Captain of the J&K Under-19 Womens Team, Shambhavi Rajput has been selected for the India A Under-19 Womens Team for the Triangular Series. Her selection is a major milestone and reflects her dedication, hard work and consistent performances. As per a statement issued, in another proud achievement, Rubia Syed has secured a place in the North Zone T20 squad. Meanwhile, Shambhavi Rajput, Aleeza Jaan and Maria Noorain have earned standby call-ups for the North Zone T20 tournament. Additionally, Rohit Rana has been selected as Trainer for the North Zone T20 Trophy. The North Zone selection meeting was convened by the Chandigarh Cricket Association (UTCA) in the presence of selectors representing various affiliated associations, including Reema Malhotra (DDCA), Rajni Kumari (HCA), Renu Margreate (PCA), Neha (HPCA), Amit Prashar (UTCA) and Meenu Slathia (JKCA). JKCA congratulated all the selected and standby players, along with Rohit Rana, and wished them success in their respective assignments. The association expressed confidence that these achievements will inspire more young girls across Jammu & Kashmir to pursue cricket and represent the region at national and international levels.
Chandigarh Sees Better Air Quality This Diwali Than Previous Years
According to the CPCC, air quality remained in the 'Satisfactory' category before the permitted firecracker bursting window of 8 pm to 10 pm on November 8.
Chandigarh breathes easier with cleanest Diwali in 4 years
31 years on, Capt Kaushals legacy lives on in Panchkula
Diwali celebrated peacefully in Chandigarh, fire brigade receives 29 calls
Five major fires keep Mohali fire brigade on toes on Diwali
Chandigarhs Diwali noise spike stays time-bound as levels fall after 10pm
Chandigarh Police receive 494 calls on Diwali, deploy 800 personnel across city
Lawyers seek parole for Amritpal to attend grandmothers last rites
Punjab Police brought back 17 gangsters from abroad in six months: Cheema
On way to Haridwar, 6 from Haryana burnt alive as car catches fire after highway crash
Man beaten to death in Kharkhoda over water dispute; 2 others injured
Paralysed man killed in house fire on Diwali night
Bahadurgarh most polluted city after Diwali at AQI 400
Cheema rejects Kapil Mishras stubble-burning claims
Cracker blast kills teen in Ludhiana village
24g heroin seized from 3 bus passengers near Shoghi
HP cabinet to meet on Nov 13, discuss jobs
HP Police handle record 586 emergency calls on Diwali
Punjab to install 16,180 more computers in govt schools under Sikhiya Kranti
Baddi air quality worst in Himachal
PGIMER Chandigarh treats 27 Diwali firecracker eye injuries, 74% involve bystanders
The News Mill
PGIMER Chandigarh treats 27 Diwali firecracker eye injury cases; 74 per cent are bystanders
In anticipation of a surge in eye emergencies during the Diwali festival, the Advanced Eye Centre, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGIMER), Chandigarh, made elaborate arrangements to ensure prompt and appropriate medical care for patients presenting with firecracker-related eye injuries. According to an official release from PGIMER, Chandigarh, a dedicated team of doctors, nursing staff and other healthcare personnel was deployed on round-the-clock emergency duty from 8:00 AM on November 8, 2026, to 8:00 AM on November 11, 2026, to manage any emergencies arising during the festive period. During the day of Diwali, 27 patients presented to the Advanced Eye Centre with a history of firecracker-related injuries. Of these, 23 were males and 4 were females. Nine patients were children, with the youngest being just 6 years old (two children). A particularly concerning finding was that 20 out of the 27 patients (74%) were bystanders, who sustained injuries while watc...
Air quality deteriorates in north post-Diwali
New Delhi: A thick layer of smog hung over parts of north India on Monday, a day after Diwali celebrations during which crackers were burst beyond permitted hours, pushing air quality to alarmingly high levels.Delhi, Haryana, Punjab and Western Uttar Pradesh's Air Quality Index (AQI) levels were well above 350, falling into the 'very poor' range.Also Read: 'Data eclipse': Questions over Delhi AQI data as several monitoring stations go offline on Diwali nightOn Sunday, Delhi recorded its most polluted Diwali in five years, with the average AQI at 376. The next morning, the AQI dropped marginally to 371, according to the CPCB.The overall AQI stood at 371 on Monday till 10 am, the highest for a post-Diwali day since 2021. Of the 51 monitoring stations that recorded data, 14 were in the 'severe' category, four in the 'poor' category and the remaining 33 in the 'very poor' category. Delhi Technological University (DTU) recorded the worst reading of 439. Earlier in the morning, the overall AQI was 370 at 8 am.According to CPCB data, Delhi's AQI was 376 on Diwali, the highest recorded on the festival day since 2021, when it was 382.Also Read: Mumbai bans sky rockets, aerial fireworks till November 25 after fire incidentsHowever, according to real-time readings on AQI.in, Delhi's air quality climbed to 2,283 after Diwali. Six other Indian cities also recorded AQI levels above 1,000 at 9 pm on Sunday, according to the platform.On Monday morning, AQI.in recorded Delhi's air quality at 637, classifying it as 'hazardous'.According to IQAir, the concentration of PM2.5 stood at 170 micrograms per cubic metre, around 34 times the World Health Organisation's annual guideline value.The high AQI also pushed up PM 10 and PM2.5 levels in the national capital.The concentration of PM10 was 126 micrograms per cubic metre, while ozone levels stood at 31, nitrogen dioxide at 44.6 and sulphur dioxide at 32. Carbon monoxide concentration was recorded at 1,461.5 micrograms per cubic metre.PM2.5, fine particulate matter capable of penetrating deep into the lungs and entering the bloodstream, is among the major pollutants of concern due to its adverse health effects.IQAir's dashboard also showed a prominent air quality alert for Delhi, with data from 32 monitoring stations provided by 12 contributors.In Uttar Pradesh, the western region bore the brunt of post-Diwali air pollution, with several cities and localities recording 'very poor' air quality and some pockets in Ghaziabad, Meerut and Saharanpur reporting AQI levels in the 'severe' category, according to official and local data.Among the 24-hour average readings from November 8 to 4 pm on Monday, Noida recorded an AQI of 332, Greater Noida 252, Ghaziabad 324, Baghpat 305, Bulandshahr 303, Muzaffarnagar 225, Meerut 269, Shamli 275 and Hapur 202.In Meerut, doctors reported an increase in patients complaining of breathing difficulties, asthma, throat infections and eye irritation after Diwali.In Ghaziabad, the municipal corporation intensified mechanical road sweeping, water sprinkling and dust-control operations at identified pollution hotspots, City Health Officer Mitlesh Kumar said.The post-Diwali pollution levels were not uniform across the state.Among the places covered in the 24-hour readings, Bareilly recorded a comparatively lower AQI of 102 and Vrindavan 110. Fatehabad registered 138, Pratapgarh 141, Jhansi 144, Mathura 169, Firozabad 176 and Agra 187.Other major cities also recorded poor air quality, with Lucknow at 245, Kanpur at 221, Prayagraj at 241, Varanasi at 274 and Gorakhpur at 261.In neighbouring Punjab and Haryana, the air quality was in the 'very poor' category on Monday.According to the 24-hour average AQI, which is reported at 4 pm every day, Bahadurgarh in Haryana recorded 400, while Charkhi Dadri was at 389.The CPCB's data further showed that Gurugram's AQI was 345, Rohtak 378, Manesar 333, Faridabad 350, Ballabhgarh 316, Bhiwani 340, Kaithal 347, while Narnaul recorded an AQI of 305.The air pollution was so severe that many residents complained of breathing difficulty.Gurugram resident Praveen Bhardwaj said that when he stepped out of his home on Monday morning, he began to experience eye irritation and difficulty breathing.I used to go for a walk in the park every morning. But now, due to the pollution, I'm afraid to even step outside. Many people are even having to give up their morning walks for the sake of their health, he said.Ashok Yadav, a resident of Sector-14, said pollution has become a cause for concern even for those who head out for morning walks.Instead of merely issuing directives, the government and the administration should take concrete, on-the-ground measures to control pollution so that people can get relief, he added.In Punjab, the 24-hour AQI reading in Jalandhar and Mandi Gobindgarh was 336, in the 'very poor' category, while Ludhiana (292), Amritsar (257) and Patiala (221) were all in the 'poor' category. Chandigarh, the common capital of Haryana and Punjab, recorded an AQI of 148 in the 'moderate' category.
Diljit Dosanjh Adds Chandigarh And Kolkata Tour Dates: Check Show Dates, Ticket Sale Timings
The singer-actor, who recently announced the India leg of his tour, will now perform across seven cities in the country.
Chandigarh Police PCR Logs 494 Diwali Calls; 203 on Crackers
Punjab records 1,152 farm fires on Diwali, highest single-day spike this season
Gaikwad, Shaw Headline Maharashtras Squad For Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy
Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy: Right-handed batters Ruturaj Gaikwad and Prithvi Shaw are the major names in the 18-member Maharashtra squad for the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy. The side will play all of its group stage matches in Mohali and New Chandigarh from November 14 to 26. Interestingly, the Maharashtra Cricket Association (MCA) has not named a captain in the squad, though IANS understands that the announcement of the sides captain is expected to arrive in the next few days. It is to be noted that Gaikwad is currently with the Indian team for the ODI series against New Zealand, which ends on November 15 in Mount Maunganui. Apart from Gaikwad and Shaw, other batters include Rahul Tripathi, Sahil Parakh and Siddhesh Veer and batting all-rounder Arshin Kulkarni. Left-arm pacer Mukesh Choudhary, who was selected in India A team for the ongoing red-ball series against New Zealand, is expected to lead the seam attack, while left-arm spinner Vicky Ostwal will play a vital role in the middle overs. The squad also includes Suraj Shinde, Ramakrishna Ghosh, Tanay Sanghvi, Kiran Chormale, Ranjit Nikam, Pradeep Dadhe, Rushikesh Sonavne, Vivek Shelar, Hitesh Walunj and Prashant Solanki. Seam-bowling all-rounder Ghosh is in line for a return to competitive cricket after a foot fracture cut short his time with Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in IPL 2026. Placed in Elite Group C, Maharashtra will begin their campaign against Puducherry in Mohali on November 14, before meeting Kerala in New Chandigarh on November 16. Maharashtra will then take on Himachal Pradesh in New Chandigarh on November 18, before facing Assam on November 20. Maharashtra will then take on Madhya Pradesh on November 22, before facing Tripura on November 24 and Andhra on November 26. Seam-bowling all-rounder Ghosh is in line for a return to competitive cricket after a foot fracture cut short his time with Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in IPL 2026. Placed in Elite Group C, Maharashtra will begin their campaign against Puducherry in Mohali on November 14, before meeting Kerala in New Chandigarh on November 16. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
Digital Desk | Chandigarh, Nov 8 (IANS) The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in Punjab on Sunday marked Diwali and Bandi Chhor Divas by lighting special lamps at the party's state office in memory of young people who lost their lives to drug abuse, highlighting the growing concern over the drug menace in the state. Punjab BJP President Kewal Singh Dhillon participated in the ceremony and lit lamps, including one dedicated to the youths who fell victim to drug addiction. The symbolic gesture was also a tribute to families whose lives have been devastated by drugs, particularly mothers who lost their sons and sisters who lost their brothers. The party said the initiative was dedicated to households whose lights had been extinguished by the drug menace, remembering the families struggling with the irreparable loss of their loved ones. On the occasion, Dhillon prayed for Punjab to be freed from the scourge of drugs and expressed hope that peace, prosperity and happiness would return to every household in the state. The BJP also linked the occasion of Bandi Chhor Divas with its resolve to fight drug addiction. The festival commemorates the release of the sixth Sikh Guru, Sri Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji, from Gwalior Fort along with 52 kings. Describing Bandi Chhor Divas as a symbol of freedom from oppression and restrictions, the BJP said Punjab today needed liberation from the grip of drugs, which has affected its youth and countless families. The BJP reiterated its commitment to stand with families affected by drug abuse and vowed to continue its fight against the menace until the state is free from the problem. Extending greetings on Diwali and Bandi Chhor Divas, the BJP prayed for divine blessings for Punjab and expressed hope that the festivals would bring happiness, prosperity and renewed hope to every household.
10-month global manhunt led to arrest of gangster from Ethiopia, says Punjab DGP
Digital Desk | Chandigarh, Nov 8 (IANS) A 10-month intelligence-led international manhunt involving spanning across Asia, South America and Africa in coordination with national and international agencies led to the arrest of gangster Gurwinder Singh alias Afridi from Ethiopia, Director General of Police (DGP) Punjab Gaurav Yadav said here on Sunday. Yadav told the media here that Afridi, one of the key kingpins of the Doni Bal-Prabh Dassuwal gang, carried a reward of Rs 5 lakh announced by the state government on information leading to his arrest. He is facing charges of directing targeted killings, extortion-related firing incidents, and organised criminal networks in Punjab while operating from abroad. The DGP said the accused is wanted in more than 30 heinous criminal cases, including five murder cases, attempt to murder, extortion, and Arms Act offences. Saying that his arrest is a major breakthrough against transnational organised crime amid the ongoing campaign 'Gangstran Te Vaar' launched by Punjab Police's Anti-Gangster Task Force (AGTF), in coordination with the Overseas Fugitive Tracking and Extradition Cell (OFTEC) of Counter Intelligence and support of central agencies, the DGP added that the arrest was secured following his deportation from Ethiopia. This marks the first-ever deportation of a fugitive secured by Punjab Police from an African country, heralding a new chapter in the state's relentless crackdown against organised crime, DGP Yadav said, accompanying Special DGP (AGTF) Promod Ban and Special DGP (Counter Intelligence) Amit Prasad. His arrest marked the successful culmination of 'Operation SHAHID' -- a 10-month-manhunt involving sustained surveillance, strategic intelligence gathering, and tracking across multiple countries, he added. Sharing operational details, the DGP said that accused Afridi had fled abroad from the Mumbai airport to the UAE on March 31, 2025, using a fake passport obtained under the particulars of a Gorakhpur resident and issued from Lucknow in Uttar Pradesh on February 12, 2025. The accused was constantly evading law enforcement agencies across several continents, DGP Yadav said, adding that initially holed up in the UAE, the accused attempted to flee to Mexico via Istanbul, but was deported back to the UAE. Subsequently, the accused slipped into Kenya in April 2026, travelled onwards to Angola in June 2026, and moved to Ethiopia in November 2026. DGP Yadav said that Punjab Police have got a Red Notice issued against Afridi, shared inputs regarding his fake identity and movements with central agencies at critical intervals, and had seven INTERPOL references issued. The persistent multi-agency pursuit led to his detention in Ethiopia on November 6 and his subsequent deportation to India. He was taken into custody by Punjab Police at the New Delhi Airport and is being brought to Punjab to face the law.
Manisankar Murasingh To Lead Tripura In First Four Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy Matches
Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy: Seam-bowling all-rounder Manisankar Murasingh will captain Tripura in the opening four matches of the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy 2026/27, with pacer Abhijit Sarkar named as the vice-captain in a jumbo 21-member squad. The Tripura Cricket Association (TCA) announced the team in a press release signed by its honorary secretary Subrata Dey and posted on their website on Sunday. Placed in Elite Group C, Tripura will play all seven of their league fixtures between New Chandigarh and Mohali. They will open their campaign against Andhra in New Chandigarh on November 14 before facing Puducherry in Mohali two days later. The side will return to New Chandigarh for a day-night clash against Madhya Pradesh on November 18, and wrap up the first leg of the group stage against Kerala in Mohali on November 20. The selectors have picked senior India batter Mandeep Singh, who is back with the team as the guest player this season. In the batters group, where nine members are present, Lakshay Thareja, who previously played for Delhi in domestic cricket, has been included. Apart from Murasingh, Bikram Debnath and Saurabh Das are the other all-rounders. The pace bowling attack will be spearheaded by vice-captain Sarkar, with Saruk Hossain and Danveer Singh providing support, while Viki Saha, Sandip Sarkar, Parvez Sultan and Chiranjit Paul form the spin bowling department. Sentu Sarkar and Arka Prabha Sinha are the two wicketkeepers in the squad, while the TCA has also named eight stand-by players. After the first four games, Tripura are scheduled to take on Himachal Pradesh in Mohali on November 22, Maharashtra at New Chandigarh on November 24, and Assam in a day-night fixture at the same venue on November 26. Tripura arrive after pulling off a stunning 133-run victory over former Ranji Trophy champions Saurashtra in their final game of the first phase of the competition, with Sandip and Abhijit taking seven wickets between themselves. Tripura squad: Bikram Kumar Das, Sridam Paul, Subham Sutradhar, Arindam Barman, Mandeep Singh, Anandh Bhowmik, Tanmoy Das, Saptajit Das, Lakshay Thareja, Manisankar Murasingh (captain), Bikram Debnath, Saurabh Das, Abhijit Sarkar (vice-captain), Saruk Hossain, Danveer Singh, Sentu Sarkar (wk), Arka Prabha Sinha (wk), Viki Saha, Sandip Sarkar, Parvez Sultan and Chiranjit Paul. Tripura arrive after pulling off a stunning 133-run victory over former Ranji Trophy champions Saurashtra in their final game of the first phase of the competition, with Sandip and Abhijit taking seven wickets between themselves. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
Deepak Chahar To Lead Rajasthan In Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, Manav Suthar Named Vice-captain
Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy: India seamer Deepak Chahar will lead Rajasthan in the 2026/27 Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, with left-arm spinner Manav Suthar named as the vice-captain in the 15-member squad announced by the Rajasthan Cricket Association (RCA). Rajasthan are drawn in Elite Group A and will play all seven of their league matches in Mumbai, starting with a clash against Uttar Pradesh on November 14. Apart from Deepak, who has played 13 ODIs and 25 T20Is for India and didnt feature in the first half of the Ranji Trophy, his younger brother, leg-spinner Rahul Chahar, also finds a place in the team. Rahul, who has played an ODI and six T20Is for India, was initially rumoured to join another team for the ongoing domestic season, but will now continue to play for Rajasthan. Just like Deepak, he didnt feature in the first half of the Ranji Trophy. Theres still no place for left-arm pacer Khaleel Ahmed, who has been recovering from hamstring surgery sustained while playing for his former team, Chennai Super Kings (CSK). Khaleel, who has played 11 ODIs and 18 T20Is for India, was recently traded to Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) for his existing fee of Rs 4.8 crore. The squad features seasoned left-handed batting all-rounder Mahipal Lomror, young wicketkeeper-batters Kartik Sharma and Mukul Choudhary, all of whom were part of IPL 2026. Other team members include Abhijeet Tomar, Ajay Raj Singh, Kunal Singh Rathore, Honey Pratap Singh and Himanshu Singh Rana. Ramniwas Golada, Rohan Rajbahar, Himanshu Nehra and Abhishek Mund complete the group picked for the competition. After their opening game against Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan will take on Jharkhand on November 16 before meeting Chandigarh on November 18. A day-night fixture against Baroda follows on November 20, before Rajasthan return to action against Mizoram on November 22. Rajasthan will complete their group-stage commitments after taking on Karnataka on November 24 and facing off against Bengal on November 26. Ramniwas Golada, Rohan Rajbahar, Himanshu Nehra and Abhishek Mund complete the group picked for the competition. After their opening game against Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan will take on Jharkhand on November 16 before meeting Chandigarh on November 18. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
Gangster Gurwinder alias Afridi brought back from Ethiopia, after 10-month manhunt
Digital Desk | Chandigarh, Nov 8 (IANS) In a major breakthrough, the Punjab Police, with support of Central agencies, have secured the deportation of noted gangster Gurwinder alias Afridi from Ethiopia ahead of Diwali, after a sustained one-year manhunt under Operation SHAHID. Gurwinder alias Afridi is a kingpin of the Doni BalPrabh Dassuwal gang and has been under the agencies radar for several organised criminal activities in Punjab, including extortion. The Punjab government had also announced a reward of 5 lakh for information leading to his arrest. The information about his deportation was shared by the Punjab DGP on Sunday. Anti-Gangster Task Force Punjab, in coordination with the Overseas Fugitive Tracking and Extradition Cell of Counter Intelligence, Punjab with the support of Central Agencies, secures the deportation of Gurwinder alias Afridi, a key kingpin of the Doni BalPrabh Dassuwal gang, from Ethiopia following a 10-month-long international manhunt under Operation SHAHID, DGP Gaurav Yadav said in a post on X. We thank the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) and all other central agencies as part of this international co-operation, he added. The DGP also stated that Punjab Police remain committed to dismantling gangster networks, preventing organised crime and ensuring peace and security across the state. According to the Punjab DGP, the year-long operation by the police and central agencies involved sustained intelligence gathering, surveillance and tracking down the accused across several countries in Asia, South America and Africa. Eventually, he was tracked down in Ethiopia and was deported after a 10-month international chase. Notably, the gangsters deportation marks a significant breakthrough in efforts to dismantle organised criminal networks and bring gangsters operating from foreign countries to justice. Meanwhile, further investigation is underway to establish the extent of the accused's alleged involvement in criminal activities and his network's operations in Punjab.
Patidar Withdraws From Rising Stars Asia Cup, Rinku Singh Named Vice-captain
The Rising Stars Asia Cup: Rajat Patidar has withdrawn from the India A squad for the upcoming ACC Mens Rising Stars Asia Cup after informing the BCCI that he does not wish to be considered for selection in the 50-over format as the 33-year-old continues to manage his existing injuries. The Mens Selection Committee named Ayush Badoni as Patidars replacement in the 15-member squad, while Rinku Singh was appointed vice-captain of the side led by T20I vice-captain Tilak Varma. Patidar, initially named vice-captain, informed the BCCI of his decision, after which the board announced the squad changes on Sunday. The development comes as Patidar prepares to lead Madhya Pradesh in the upcoming Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, scheduled to begin on November 14. Madhya Pradesh have been placed in Elite Group C and will play their first four matches in New Chandigarh before moving to Mohali for their remaining fixtures. Patidar is likely to feature in the domestic T20 competition. The Rising Stars Asia Cup will be held in Doha, Qatar, from November 19 to 29. India A have been placed in Group B alongside Pakistan A, Nepal and the United Arab Emirates (UAE). India A will begin their campaign against Nepal on November 20 at the West End Park International Stadium before facing Pakistan A at the same venue on November 22. They will conclude their group-stage fixtures against the UAE at the University of Doha for Science and Technology on November 24. The top two teams from each group will advance to the semi-finals, scheduled for November 26 and 27, with the final on November 29. India A will begin their campaign against Nepal on November 20 at the West End Park International Stadium before facing Pakistan A at the same venue on November 22. They will conclude their group-stage fixtures against the UAE at the University of Doha for Science and Technology on November 24. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
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