Ranji Trophy: Badoni Slams Second Successive Ton, Saranshs Seven-for Puts MP On Top
JSCA International Stadium: Batting all-rounder Ayush Badoni continued his rich vein of form by hitting a second consecutive hundred, while India off-spinner Saransh Jains seven-wicket haul gave Madhya Pradesh firm control on day one of the third-round Ranji Trophy matches on Monday. Fresh from a career-best 217 against Gujarat, Badoni struck an unbeaten 106 off 122 balls, laced with 11 fours and two sixes, to take Delhi to 309/5 against Jharkhand at the JSCA International Stadium in Ranchi. Badoni, 26, previously hit 205 against the same opponents in the 2024/25 season. A chanceless knock, Badonis sixth first-class hundred, anchored Delhis recovery. He found a reliable ally in all-rounder Sumit Mathur, who was unbeaten on 50, as the pair put together an unbroken 128-run stand for the sixth wicket. Mathur had a lucky escape on 36 when he was caught at long-on, only to be recalled because Anukul Roy had overstepped. At Holkar Stadium in Indore, Saranshs 7-40 helped Madhya Pradesh bowl Bihar out for just 99. The hosts, still looking for their first win of the season after two draws, then reached 261/3 with a lead of 162, after bowling out Bihar for 99. Wicketkeeper-batter Saksham Purohit was unbeaten on 113, and his opening partner Yash Dubey made 84. At the BKC Ground, Mumbai also made a strong start against Haryana at home after being put in to bat first. Angkrish Raghuvanshi made 114 off 180 balls with 13 fours and a six, while Musheer Khan scored 109 off 185 balls with 12 fours and a six. The pair added 208 runs for the second wicket to steer Mumbai to 290/3 at stumps. Defending champions Jammu and Kashmir, also in search of their first win, were frustrated by Priyanshu Moliya at the Reliance Ground in Vadodara. Moliyas patient unbeaten 113 lifted Baroda to 259/6 after they had slipped to 197/6 at one stage. Vidarbha, who have two wins so far, had Goa in trouble at 84/6 after Nachiket Bhute ripped through the top order with four wickets. But Darshan Misal and Yash Kasvankar then struck half-centuries and shared a stand of 104 runs for the seventh wicket to help the visitors reach 204/8. On a rain-hit day, Pondicherry reduced Uttar Pradesh to 67/4. In Mysuru, Karnataka recovered from a sluggish start to bowl Tripura out for 194 at the SDNR Wadiyar Stadium. The hosts, who sprang a surprise by leaving out pacers Vidwath Kaverappa and Abhilash Shetty to accommodate spinners Shikhar Shetty and Ritesh Bhatkal, failed to make use of the new ball as Tripura moved comfortably to 88/2 in the first session. Left-arm spinner Shikhar then claimed his third first-class five-wicket haul, while pacer Manvanth Kumar took three. Karnataka lost Mayank Agarwal early and were 10 for one at stumps. At the DVR Ground in Mulapadu, Chhattisgarhs spinners made full use of a helpful pitch to bowl Andhra out for 231. Veteran off-spinner Jayant Yadav led the way with 4-75, while Ajay Mandal and Dharmendrasinh Jadeja took three and two wickets respectively. In reply, Chhattisgarh lost Ayush Pandey early when he was run out going for an unnecessary quick single. Captain Anuj Tiwary and Mayank Verma then negotiated the final half-hour to take the visitors to 35/1. Wicketkeeper-batter Prabhsimran Singh laid the foundation with 81 off 126 balls, hitting nine fours and a six, while fifties from Salil Arora and Ramandeep Singh then guided Punjab to 289/6 against Hyderabad in Secunderabad. Denish Das made 90 off 165 balls, with 14 fours, to take Assam to 235/6 against Saurashtra in Rajkot. For the hosts, veteran pacer Jaydev Unadkat picked up three wickets, while Ravindra Jadeja and Arth Yadav took one wicket each. In Thiruvananthapuram, where only 50 overs were possible due to rain, Kerala reduced Bengal to 172/6, with Aditya Sarwate taking three wickets and Nedumankuzhy Basil two scalps. Maharashtra bowled out Gujarat for 233 in Pune, with Siddhesh Veer taking four wickets, while Rajvardhan Hangargekar and Vicky Ostwal claimed three apiece. Maharashtra were 24/1 when stumps were called. Services off-spinner Pulkit Narang returned 6-47, his second five-wicket haul of the season, to bowl Odisha out for 194 in Bhubaneswar. The visitors were 13/0 at stumps. Tamil Nadu bowled out Railways for 184 in Chennai, with R Sai Kishore and Sonu Yadav taking three wickets each, but slipped to 71/3 till stumps arrived. Devendra Singh Boras six-wicket haul helped Uttarakhand dismiss Rajasthan for 272 in Dehradun despite skipper Kartik Sharmas 73. Uttarakhand were 18/0 at stumps. Centuries from Arjun Azad and Nehal Pajni powered Chandigarh past 350 for the loss of three wickets against Himachal Pradesh. In the Plate group, Meghalayas Ajay Duhan (167) and Kishan Lyngdoh (144) shared an unbroken 308-run stand for the second wicket as their side piled up 385/2 against Mizoram in Nadiad. Tamil Nadu bowled out Railways for 184 in Chennai, with R Sai Kishore and Sonu Yadav taking three wickets each, but slipped to 71/3 till stumps arrived. Devendra Singh Boras six-wicket haul helped Uttarakhand dismiss Rajasthan for 272 in Dehradun despite skipper Kartik Sharmas 73. Uttarakhand were 18/0 at stumps. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
Concerned over repeated incidents of murders, shootings: Punjab BJP
Digital Desk | Chandigarh, Oct 26 (IANS) Bharatiya Janata Party Punjab President, Kewal Singh Dhillon, on Monday expressed concern over the alleged repeated incidents of murders, shootings in the state, criticising the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government over the deteriorating law and order situation. He said that incidents of daylight murders and shootings across Punjab have instilled fear among ordinary man. The firing incident in Moga, he added, exposed the reality behind the state governments claims regarding law and order. According to a statement issued from the party office in Chandigarh, Dhillon said that 23 police stations in Punjab have witnessed grenade attacks, while serious incidents, including an attack on the police headquarters using a rocket launcher, have also taken place. The situation has reached a point where police officers are being compelled to issue written instructions to their personnel, advising them against venturing outside in uniform. Protective nets are being installed outside police stations, and their boundary walls are being heightened. These developments raise serious questions about the states security arrangements. He further said, While Punjab is grappling with crime and lawlessness, Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann remains occupied with foreign tours. Instead of prioritising the safety and security of the people of Punjab, the Chief Minister appears more concerned about his birthday. The reported issue of customs duty allegedly being imposed on his belongings upon his return from abroad has also become a subject of discussion. Dhillon demanded that the AAP government take strict action against criminals, strengthen the police force and ensure the safety of citizens. He said that the law and order situation in the state has deteriorated to an alarming level. Instead of shirking its responsibilities, the government must take concrete and effective steps to restore public confidence and ensure security across the state.
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.
Gold and Silver Prices Drop in Chandigarh Ahead of Festive Rush
Haryana CM Saini to lead investment outreach in Gujarat
Digital Desk | Chandigarh, Oct 26 (IANS) Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini will lead a high-level delegation to Gujarat on October 27-28 to attract investments, strengthen industrial cooperation and promote business opportunities in the state, the state government said on Monday. The delegation will visit Surat and Gandhinagar, where it will hold meetings with investors, engage with industry representatives and organise the Haryana Investment Roadshow. Haryana Industries and Commerce Minister Rao Narbir Singh will also accompany the Chief Minister. The outreach comes as Haryana seeks to attract investments worth around Rs 5 lakh crore and generate more than 10 lakh employment opportunities by 2030-31 under its Make in Haryana Industrial Policy -- 2026. Amit Agrawal, Commissioner and Secretary (Industries and Commerce), said Saini would hold one-to-one meetings with investors in Surat on October 27 to discuss investment prospects, industrial expansion and opportunities for setting up businesses in Haryana. The programme will also include a Pravasi Milan Samaroh, bringing together members of the Haryana diaspora and prominent business representatives. The event will highlight the state's cultural heritage, development trajectory and industrial capabilities. On October 28, Haryana will organise an investment roadshow in Gandhinagar, bringing together industrialists, investors and representatives from various sectors. The roadshow will showcase Haryana's industrial infrastructure, investor-friendly policy framework, connectivity and skilled workforce, while highlighting opportunities across sectors, Agrawal said. The delegation will hold discussions with industry representatives on prospective investments, projects and business partnerships. The state will also explore the possibility of signing memoranda of understanding (MoUs) linked to investment proposals. The government aims to use the engagements to establish direct links with investors and encourage companies to consider Haryana for new industrial units and expansion projects. The Make in Haryana Industrial Policy -- 2026 is aimed at accelerating industrial development, strengthening manufacturing and creating a conducive environment for domestic and international investors, according to the state government. Under the policy-led investment push, Haryana has set a target of attracting approximately Rs 5 lakh crore in fresh investments and creating more than 10 lakh jobs by 2030-31. The Gujarat outreach is intended to familiarise investors with the state's industrial ecosystem and encourage investment proposals that could support manufacturing growth, technological innovation and employment generation. The government expects the engagements in Surat and Gandhinagar to open avenues for new industrial ventures, expansion of existing businesses and partnerships with companies across sectors. The visit forms part of Haryana's broader effort to widen investor engagement and position the state as a destination for industrial investment and business expansion.
BJP seeking votes to snatch Panjab University and water, says CM Mann
Digital Desk | Patiala, Oct 26 (IANS) Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann on Monday tore into the BJP, pointing out it is seeking votes to snatch Panjab University in Chandigarh and Punjabs water, while making a habit of depriving the state of its rightful rights and financial dues. Slamming the Modi government for withholding the states RDF (Rural Development Fund) and VAT (Value-Added Tax) dues for four-and-a-half years, he also hit out at the Akalis and the BJP over the drug menace, accusing the two parties of damaging Punjab during their previous tenures and now preparing to reunite for electoral gains. The Chief Minister asserted that Punjab would not tolerate any compromise with its rights and interests, adding the Oppositions frustration stemmed from the continued public support for the Aam Aadmi Party. During a media interaction, CM Mann said, The BJP is seeking votes by conspiring to snatch Panjab University and Punjabs water. Denying Punjab its rightful claims has become an old habit of the BJP. The people of Punjab have made immense sacrifices for the country, contributed to its food security and stood firmly at the forefront of national defence, yet the state continues to face injustice at the hands of the BJP-led Union government. The Chief Minister said Punjab would never allow any political party to undermine its interests or compromise the rights of its people. Panjab University is an important institution associated with Punjabs history, identity and academic legacy, while our water resources are vital to our agricultural economy and the livelihoods of millions of farmers. The people of Punjab will not tolerate any conspiracy to weaken the states rights over its institutions, water or financial entitlements. Calling out the BJP-led Central government for Punjabs pending financial dues, CM Mann said the Modi government has withheld Punjabs RDF and VAT dues. This prolonged withholding of funds is deeply unjust to the people of Punjab and hampers the states ability to undertake essential development and rural infrastructure works. Punjab is demanding nothing beyond its legitimate entitlements, and the Union government must fulfil its financial obligations towards the state, he added.
How Nek Chand Transformed Discarded Materials Into Chandigarh
Nek Chand turned discarded materials into Chandigarhs iconic Rock Garden, inspiring creative reuse and sustainable living.
Industry Body Seeks Debt Recovery Tribunal in Jammu Kashmir, Cites Costly Chandigarh Proceedings
SRINAGAR: The Federation of Chambers of Industries Kashmir (FCIK) has urged Chief Minister Omar Abdullah to press the Union Government for the establishment of a Debt Recovery Tribunal (DRT) in Jammu and Kashmir, citing the financial burden, legal difficulties and inconvenience faced by local borrowers who are required to pursue cases in Chandigarh. In a []
Congress to launch state-wide agitation in Punjab over alleged 'vote theft', says MP Rajiv Shukla
Senior Congress leader and Rajya Sabha MP Rajiv Shukla on Monday alleged that the Election Commission has been arbitrarily removing voters' names across the country, announcing that the party is chalking out a blueprint to launch a state-wide protest movement in Punjab against this massive vote theft. Speaking to reporters here ahead of a key organisational meeting with Punjab Congress district presidents in Chandigarh, Shukla said that party leaders have assembled to discuss several pressing issues, with voter list manipulation being at the top of the agenda. We are in Chandigarh for the Punjab district presidents' meeting. We will be discussing several matters, especially the ongoing vote-theft issue. The Election Commission has been cutting people's votes across the country, and there has been massive vote theft, Shukla alleged. Outlining the party's plan of action, the Congress leader said: We are holding a comprehensive meeting with our Punjab district presidents to formulate...
NCB secures 10-year jail term for three drug traffickers caught with charas in car
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Oct 26 (IANS) The Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB), Chandigarh Zonal Unit, has secured the conviction of three drug traffickers who were caught transporting 3.65 kg of charas concealed inside a car's speaker system. A Special Court in Rupnagar, Punjab, sentenced each of the three accused to 10 years of rigorous imprisonment and imposed a total fine of Rs 2 lakh on each convict. The convicted persons have been identified as Kuldeep Singh, alias Golu, and Sanjeev Kumar, alias Mithoo, both residents of Nabha in Patiala district, and Ashok Kumar, a resident of Patiala/Chandigarh. The case was registered as NCB Crime No. 46/2021. According to the NCB, acting on specific intelligence, a team from the Chandigarh Zonal Unit conducted surveillance on the Sirhind-Patiala Road in Morinda, Rupnagar district, on July 1, 2021. A car matching the description provided in the intelligence input was intercepted. During the search, officials discovered seven packets of round and finger-shaped charas concealed inside a speaker fitted in the vehicle's boot. The seized contraband weighed 3.65 kg, which constitutes a commercial quantity under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act, 1985. All three occupants of the vehicle were arrested at the spot. The Special Court, presided over by Judge Lukhvinder Kaur Duggal, held that the mandatory provisions of the NDPS Act had been duly complied with. In its judgment dated October 21, the court convicted the three accused under Section 20(C) and Section 29 read with Section 20 of the Act. While pronouncing the sentence on October 22, the court referred to observations of the Supreme Court highlighting the severe societal impact of narcotics-related offences. Each convict was sentenced to 10 years of rigorous imprisonment and fined Rs 1 lakh under Section 20(C) and another Rs 1 lakh under Section 29 read with Section 20 of the NDPS Act. In default of payment of each fine, the convicts will undergo an additional two years of rigorous imprisonment. The substantive sentences will run concurrently. The court also directed the initiation of confiscation proceedings under Section 60 of the NDPS Act against the vehicle used to transport the contraband. The NCB reiterated its commitment to the government's vision of a 'Nasha Mukt Bharat' (Drug-Free India) and urged the public to report drug trafficking through the MANAS National Narcotics Helpline at the toll-free number 1933. The identity of informants will be kept strictly confidential.
Bank holiday on Valmiki Jayanti: Will banks remain shut on October 26? Check list
As October unfolds, India's vibrant festival season translates into various state-specific bank holidays. On October 26, banking services will pause in Tripura, Chandigarh, Jammu and Kashmir, and Himachal Pradesh. Important dates approaching include Karva Chauth on October 29 and Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel's birth anniversary on October 31. Although digital transactions persist, customers are encouraged to verify local holiday observances to sidestep any unexpected closures at physical branches.
Congress MP KC Venugopal arrives in Chandigarh ahead of Rahul Gandhi
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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 .
Haryana guest teachers demand regularisation of services, march to Chandigarh
The teachers said they held three major rallies, submitted memoranda to Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini, and held four rounds of talks with the State government, but there has been no resolution.
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
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DLSA Chandigarh Office Assistant/ Clerk Recruitment 2026
District Legal Services Authority Chandigarh (DLSA Chandigarh) has released the official notification for the post of Office Assistant/Clerk. The last date to submit the offline application is 30 October 2026. Further details are available at chandigarh.nalsa.gov.in.
Centre has approved 320 PG medical seats for Himachal, says Nadda
Digital Desk | Shimla, Oct 24 (IANS) Union Health Minister, Jagat Prakash Nadda, on Saturday announced a major boost to medical education in Himachal Pradesh, approving the proposal for 320 additional Postgraduate (PG) medical seats in six government medical colleges. The Centre will provide approximately Rs 415 crore as a grant for this significant initiative. In an address to the people of his home state, Nadda said under Prime Minister Narendra Modis leadership several transformative initiatives have been implemented in medical education and healthcare in the past 12 years. As part of these efforts, the Central government approved a Rs 15,000 crore scheme to add 10,000 new medical seats across the country over five years. He said Himachal Pradesh would benefit significantly from this initiative, with all 320 proposed PG medical seats receiving approval. Providing the college-wise distribution, Nadda said 91 seats have been approved for Indira Gandhi Medical College and Hospital in Shimla; 57 for Government Medical College in Hamirpur; 55 for Ner Chowk Medical College in Mandi; 57 for Dr Rajendra Prasad Government Medical College in Tanda; 32 for Government Medical College in Nahan; and 28 for Government Medical College in Chamba. Highlighting the speed of the approval process, Nadda said the Himachal Pradesh government submitted its proposal on June 23. Subsequently, during the convocation ceremony at AIIMS Bilaspur on October 6, Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu discussed the matter with him. The Central government has now approved all 320 proposed seats. Nadda said the additional seats would strengthen specialised medical services, including surgery, orthopaedics, obstetrics and gynaecology, paediatrics, oncology and other critical medical disciplines. He emphasised that the initiative would create greater opportunities for medical graduates to pursue postgraduate education while improving access to specialised healthcare services closer to people's homes. Nadda urged the Himachal Pradesh government to complete all necessary administrative and regulatory formalities without delay to ensure the timely creation and operationalisation of these 320 seats. He also expressed concern over delays in other centrally supported development projects, particularly the construction of Critical Care Blocks and Public Health Laboratories, and called upon the state government to accelerate their implementation. Referring to railway infrastructure, Nadda highlighted pending issues relating to the state's financial contribution and land availability for the Chandigarh-Baddi and Bhanupalli-Bilaspur railway projects. He stressed that development projects directly benefiting the public must not suffer unnecessary delays because of pending administrative or financial decisions. The Central government, under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership, remains fully committed to extending every possible assistance for the development of Himachal Pradesh. Our priority is clear: The development of Himachal Pradesh, greater opportunities for its youth and the welfare of every family, Nadda said. He added that while the Central government was fulfilling its responsibilities with determination, the state government must demonstrate equal commitment to ensuring the effective and timely implementation of development projects.
Gurdwara Sahib becomes a landmark of Sikh identity in Switzerland
