Mumbai: Loose power cable on Dahisar flyover scares bikers and motorists
The cable has been hanging for the past 3-4 months, and even after complaints, no action has been taken to remove it; locals ask BMC to remove it at the earliest
Punjab-based agent held for arranging illegal UK entry for passenger
NEW DELHI: A Punjab-based agent, who holds a diploma in multimedia programming, was arrested for his involvement in arranging a fake UK visa for a man attempting to travel abroad via Sharjah. The 35-year-old accused, identified as Amit Bhardwaj alias Gavi, was nabbed from one of his hideouts in Punjab, police said on Wednesday. The matter came to light when a 25-year-old man named Anil, a resident of Hisar in Haryana, was caught at the IGI Airport on 1 March, 2022, during immigration clearance while trying to depart for Sharjah, UAE. Upon scrutiny of his documents, immigration officers found a fake UK visa affixed to his passport. According to a senior police officer, Anil disclosed during investigation that he wanted to go to the UK to earn quick money. He came into contact with an agent, Karanjeet, through another agent, Gavi, who assured him that his journey to the UK via Sharjah would be arranged for Rs 12 lakh with the help of associates, the officer said. The passenger said he paid the entire amount in cash and was promised a job in the UK. He handed over his passport to the agent, who later arranged the fake visa and tickets. However, Anil was intercepted during the immigration clearance at IGI Airport. Earlier, agents Karanjeet and one of his associates, Gurmeet, were arrested in connection with the case. Later, the name of one agent, Gavi alias Amit Bhardwaj, surfaced. He had introduced the passenger to agent Gurmeet and was found to be involved in the case as an associate, said Additional Commissioner of Police (IGI Airport) Usha Rangnani. Bhardwaj, a graduate and diploma holder in multimedia programming, told the police he was financially struggling when he met Karanjeet, who was already duping people by offering fake visas. He started working with him, Rangnani said. The accused further disclosed that the passenger had approached Karanjeet through him, as he had met Anil during a previous job. Karanjeet then promised to arrange the visa, tickets, and journey to the UK via UAE for Rs 12 lakh. As per the deal, he, along with Karanjeet and Gurmeet, arranged a fake UK visa on the passport of the passenger. He also revealed that he received a commission of Rs two lakh from Karanjeet in this case, the officer added.
Mumbai: Court denies bail to trio accused of assaulting lawyer
Victim suffered fractured rib and damaged eardrum after an argument at Dahisar station; fresh medical report led to FIR and arrests
BJP MLA sends son to represent him at dist devt meeting in Hisar, raises eyebrows
Mumbai's Metro Line 7A achieved a significant milestone with the TBM breakthrough, completing the 1.647-km downline tunnel between Andheri East and CSMIA. This marks MMRDA's first underground metro tunnel breakthrough, overcoming tough geological challenges. The 3.4-km extension will enhance connectivity to the airport and integrate with other metro lines, aiming to reduce traffic congestion.
Hisar MC: BJP councillor won seat using fake caste certificate, claims Cong leader
BJP councillor accused of using fake BC-A certificate, court issues notice
In Hisar, Congress candidate Kusum Prajapati has challenged BJP councillor Jyoti's Ward-3 victory, alleging the use of a forged BC-A caste certificate. Prajapati claims Jyoti belongs to the general category, not the BC-A category required for the reserved seat. The petition cites discrepancies in Jyoti's nomination, seeking her disqualification and a re-evaluation of the election result.
CHANDIGARH: There is only one operational old-age home in Haryana as per the status report given to the Haryana Human Rights Commission (HHRC) by the authorities. The commission has raised serious concerns over the sluggish pace of old-age home construction across the state. In a review conducted in compliance with its earlier order dated January 31 the commission noted that only one old age home in Rewari district is currently operational, nearly two years after its inauguration on January 6, 2023. As per the status report received on April 1, this year the land has not yet been identified for old age homes in Jhajjar, Palwal, Panipat, Rohtak, and Sirsa districts. Meanwhile, districts like Gurugram, Kaithal, CharkhiDadri, Mahendragarh, and Nuh have earmarked land and have initiated the construction process. Construction remains pending in Faridabad, Fatehabad, Hisar, Jind, Kurukshetra, Sonipat, and Yamunanagar due to a lack of planning approvals. However, work is ongoing in Karnal under the Smart City Project and in Panchkula under the supervision of the Mata Mansa Devi Shrine Board. During a virtual inspection of the Rewari old age home, the commission found that only 12 senior citizens (9 men and 3 women) were residing in a facility built to house 170 residents. Several hygiene issues were observed, including unclean washrooms, poor kitchen conditions, and insufficient staff only one safaisewak was deployed, which was deemed inadequate for maintaining cleanliness. A full commission bench comprising Chairperson Justice (Retd) Lalit Batra, Judicial Member Kuldip Jain, and Member Deep Bhatia, invoked Section 19 of the Maintenance and Welfare of Parents and Senior Citizens Act, 2007, which mandates at least one Old Age Home in every district. The Commission reaffirmed that ensuring dignity and security for the elderly is a constitutional and moral obligation of the state. To expedite progress, the commission has directed the following senior officials to personally monitor and accelerate the construction of old age homes: Additional Chief Secretary, Department of Social Justice and Empowerment, Chief Administrator, HSVP, Panchkula, Director, Development and Panchayats Department and Director, Town and Country Planning Department. According to Dr Puneet Arora spokesman of the commission and protocol officer, the commission has sought a detailed action taken report from the concerned departments by July 29 this year.
YouTuber Kills Husband With Lover's Help In Haryana, Dumps Body In Drain
Two lovers strangled the woman's husband to death in Haryana's Hisar district after they were caught in an objectionable position.
Haryana to establish industrial cluster near Hisar Airport; project set to generate over 10,000 jobs
Hisar bar body protests after lawyer claims bribe demand for land registration
Manufacturing Cluster Worth Rs 4,680 Crore To Be Developed In Haryana's Hisar
Under the Amritsar-Kolkata Industrial Corridor, industrial townships will be developed in six cities across seven states, with the IMC in Hisar being the largest project.
Haryana to set up Rs 4,680 crore Industrial Manufacturing Cluster near Hisar airport
CHANDIGARH: To boost industrial growth in Haryana, an Industrial Manufacturing Cluster (IMC) will be established near Maharaja Agrasen Airport in Hisar, spanning around 3,000 acres. The project, estimated to cost Rs 4,680 crore, will be a joint initiative between the Haryana Government and the National Industrial Corridor Development Corporation (NICDC). This information was revealed during a high-level meeting chaired by Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini earlier today. Civil Aviation Minister Vipul Goel was also present at the meeting. During the meeting, CM Saini was informed that the Union Government, in collaboration with state governments, is working on integrated industrial corridors featuring multi-modal connectivity to accelerate manufacturing and promote planned urbanisation. Under the Amritsar-Kolkata Industrial Corridor, industrial townships will be developed in six cities across seven states. Among these, the IMC in Hisar will be the largest, spanning nearly 3,000 acres and set to be developed in two phases. It was informed in the meeting that this project is expected to attract investments of around Rs 32,000 crore and generate over 10,000 employment opportunities. The IMC will have all essential and modern infrastructure including roads, a water treatment plant, and a solid waste management plant (STP). A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between NICDC and the Haryana Government will be signed soon for the successful execution of this project. Saini directed the officers concerned to expedite the formal procedures. He said that the IMC will attract investments from both Indian and international companies. Out of the 7,200 acres demarcated in Hisar, around 4,212 acres are occupied by Maharaja Agrasen Airport, while the IMC will be established on the remaining approximately 2,988 acres. Proximity to the airport will provide a significant advantage to industries, he said. In the meeting it was further shared that under the Delhi-Mumbai Industrial Corridor being developed by NICDC, an Integrated Multi-Modal Logistics Hub is being set up on approximately 886 acres in Nangal Chaudhary, Haryana. Thus, Haryana stands to gain greatly from the presence of two major industrial corridors, which will boost investment and generate employment in the state. Saini said that the development of industries is crucial for realizing the vision of a Viksit Haryana under the Viksit Bharat mission. The state government is committed to establishing 10 Industrial Model Townships (IMTs) in Haryana. Officers concerned have been directed to take necessary steps in this direction.
Industrial manufacturing cluster to be established near Hisar airport
Haryana is set to establish a Rs 4,680 crore Industrial Manufacturing Cluster (IMC) near Hisar's Maharaja Agrasen Airport, spanning approximately 3,000 acres. Developed jointly with NICDC, this project, part of the Amritsar-Kolkata Industrial Corridor, aims to attract Rs 32,000 crore in investments and generate over 10,000 jobs. The IMC will feature modern infrastructure and benefit from the airport's proximity.
Congress humiliated, distorted vision of Ambedkar: PM Modi
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, addressing a gathering in Hisar on Ambedkar's birth anniversary, strongly criticized the Congress party for allegedly disrespecting Dr. B.R. Ambedkar during his lifetime and attempting to erase his legacy. Modi highlighted development initiatives under the BJP government, contrasting them with the performance of Congress-led administrations.
PM lays foundation stone for new terminal at Hisar airport
Prime Minister Modi laid the foundation for a Rs 410-crore terminal at Hisar Airport, enhancing Haryana's connectivity. New flights will connect Hisar to Ayodhya, Jammu, Ahmedabad, Jaipur, and Chandigarh. Since 2014, the number of airports has doubled to 150, with the UDAN scheme connecting 90 airports and making air travel more accessible.
Congress insulted Ambedkar, reduced SCs, STs and OBCs into second class citizens: PM Modi
CHANDIGARH: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday accused the Congress party of reducing the Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes and OBCs into second-class citizens while in power. The Prime Minister's accusation came on the birth anniversary of social reformer and chief architect of Indian Constitution Dr B R Ambedkar. Modi was addressing a rally in Hisar after laying foundation stone for a new terminal building at Majaraja Agrasen Airport worth over Rs 410 crore and flagging off a flight to Ayodhya. Launching an all-out attack on the Congress, Modi said that the Congress party's opposition to the Waqf (Amendment) Act, benefitted only a few extremists while leaving the rest of the community neglected, uneducated and impoverished. The Prime Minister said if the Congress truly cared for the Muslim community, the party would have appointed a Muslim as their party president or allocated 50 per cent of tickets during elections to Muslim candidates. He stated that the new provisions will honor the sanctity of Waqf, ensuring that the rights of poor and Pasmanda Muslim families, women, and children are upheld. He affirmed that this reflects the true spirit of the constitution and genuine social justice. The Constitution talks about a secular civil code, but Congress never implemented it. Today, uniform civil code has been implemented in Uttarakhand. Unfortunately, the Congress is opposing this, he said. He criticized the Congress for its treatment of Ambedkar, stating that while he was alive, they insulted him, orchestrated his electoral defeats twice, and conspired to exclude him from the system. He remarked that after Babasahebs passing, the party also attempted to erase his legacy and suppress his ideas. He highlighted that Dr. Ambedkar was the protector of the Constitution, whereas they became its destroyer. He stated that while Dr. Ambedkar aimed to bring equality, Congress spread the virus of vote-bank politics in the country. Modi remarked that Ambedkar envisioned a life of dignity for every poor and marginalized individual, enabling them to dream and fulfill their aspirations. Criticizing the Congress rule during which the SC, ST, and OBC communities faced significant barriers, with even access to banks being a distant dream, the Prime Minister said that insurance, loans, and financial assistance were mere aspirations for them. He highlighted that under the BJP government led by him, the largest beneficiaries of Jan Dhan accounts are from SC, ST, and OBC communities. He proudly noted that today, these individuals confidently showcase their RuPay cards, symbolizing their financial inclusion and empowerment. Reiterating his promise that even those wearing slippers would fly in airplanes, a vision now being realized across the country, Modi highlighted that in the past ten years, millions of Indians have experienced air travel for the first time. He noted that new airports have been built even in areas that previously lacked proper railway stations, sharing that before 2014, India had 74 airports, a number achieved in 70 years while today, the number of airports has surpassed 150. He emphasized that nearly 90 aerodromes have been connected under the UDAN scheme, with over 600 routes operational, enabling affordable air travel for many. Hisar Airport will elevate the aspirations of Haryanas youth, providing them with new opportunities and dreams, he added.
On Ambedkar birth anniv, PM claims Cong turned SCs, STs, OBCs into second-class citizens
HISAR: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday launched a scathing attack on the Congress on the birth anniversary of B R Ambedkar, accusing the party of turning Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes and OBCs into second-class citizens while in power. Addressing a gathering after flagging off the first commercial flight from the Maharaja Agrasen airport here []
Prime Minister Narendra Modi flagged off the first commercial flight from Hisar to Ayodhya and laid the foundation stone for the new terminal building of the Maharaja Agrasen Airport. The new terminal, worth over Rs 410 crore, is set to feature a modern passenger terminal, a cargo terminal, and an air traffic control building, according to an official statement. The project, which marks a major boost to Haryanas aviation infrastructure, is expected to be completed within two years, significantly enhancing the airports capacity and efficiency. The move is part of the government's UDAN, or the regional connectivity scheme, aimed at making air travel more affordable and accessible. Hisar Airport will elevate the aspirations of Haryanas youth, providing them with new opportunities and dreams, said Modi. With regular flights now scheduled between Hisar and Ayodhya twice a week, and three weekly flights to cities like Jammu, Ahmedabad, Jaipur, and Chandigarh, Hisar Airport is expected to become a key regional hub. The inauguration of Hisar Airport marks a significant milestone in Haryana's development journey. It will boost regional connectivity and catalyse economic growth across the state. https://t.co/8DtkTWUEXD Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) April 14, 2025 Reiterating his promise to make air travel 'safe, affordable and accessible to all', the prime minister said that nearly 90 aerodromes have been connected under the UDAN scheme, with over 600 routes operational, enabling affordable air travel for many. This has led to record-breaking numbers of annual air travelers. India's domestic air traffic reached 16.13 crore in 2024, marking a 6% increase year-on-year, showed DGCA data. Modi further highlighted that various airlines have placed record orders to the tune of 2,000 new aircraft, which will create numerous jobs for pilots, air hostesses, and other services. He also pointed out that the aircraft maintenance sector will generate significant employment opportunities. Modi's visit to Hisar coincided with Ambedkar Jayanti, commemorating the birth anniversary of Dr B R Ambedkar, a monumental figure in Indian history renowned for championing the rights of marginalised communities and for his role as the chief architect of the Constitution. During the occasion, PM Modi also launched a series of development projects in Haryana, with investments totalling around Rs 10,000 crore. . Read more on Business by NDTV Profit.
Votebank ka virus: PM Modi attacks Congress for opposing Waqf Act, says loot of land will stop now
Congress has become the destroyer of Constitutions. Dr BR Ambedkar wanted to bring in equality, but Congress spread the virus of vote bank politics. Babasaheb wanted that every poor, every backward can live with dignity and with their head held high, have dreams and complete them, PM Modi said in Hisar, Haryana while inaugurating first commercial flight from the district to Ayodhya.
Congress exploiting holy Constitution as weapon to grab power: PM Modi in Haryanas Hisar
PM Modi accuses Congress of playing vote-bank politics; says Congresss appeasement has resulted in a loss for Muslims
Historic Day: Haryana Chief Minister On Launch Of Hisar-Ayodhya Flight
Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini called Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to the Hisar historic as PM Modi flagged off a direct commercial flight from Maharaja Agrasen International Airport to Ayodhya's Maharishi Valmiki Airport.
PM flags off Hisar-Ayodhya flight, lays foundation stone for new terminal building of airport
PM Modi laid the foundation stone of Maharaja Agrasen Airport's new terminal building to be built at an estimated cost of over 410 crore
PM flags off Hisar-Ayodhya flight; lays foundation stone for new terminal building of airport
HISAR, Apr 14: Prime Minister Narendra Modi Monday flagged off a commercial flight from here to Ayodhya and laid the foundation stone of the new terminal building at the airport. In line with his commitment to make air travel safe, affordable and accessible to all, PM Modi laid the foundation stone of Maharaja Agrasen Airports new terminal building to be built at an estimated cost of over Rs 410 crore. It will include a state-of-the-art passenger terminal, a cargo terminal [] The post PM flags off Hisar-Ayodhya flight; lays foundation stone for new terminal building of airport appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
LIVE: PM Modi flags off Hisar to Ayodhya flight, lays foundation for new terminal at Hisar airport
PM Modi flags off Hisar-Ayodhya flight, lays foundation for Rs 410-crore terminal at Hisar Airport
On Ambedkar Jayanti, PM Modi inaugurated development projects in Haryana, including Hisar Airport. He flagged off the inaugural commercial flight from Hisar to Ayodhya and laid the foundation for a new 410 crore terminal building featuring modern passenger and cargo facilities, along with an ATC building.
Stage set for Modis Hisar rally; 1L expected, says minister
VIP and VVIP zones created, 48 sectors set up for PM Modi's rally near Hisar airport
Doctors protest suspension of Hisar deputy civil surgeon, OPD services disrupted for two hours
Haryana's medical services faced disruption as doctors protested the suspension of Dr. Prabhu Dayal, Hisar's deputy civil surgeon, following a sting operation alleging involvement in illegal fetal sex determination. The Haryana Civil Medical Service (HCMS) members wore black badges and shut down OPDs for two hours.
UPI glitch disrupts business, causes inconvenience across Hisar, Fatehabad, Sirsa
A widespread technical glitch in the Unified Payments Interface (UPI) system disrupted business transactions and frustrated customers in Hisar, Fatehabad, and Sirsa on Saturday. Users reported repeated transaction failures and delays in crediting merchant accounts, despite money being debited from customer accounts. Traders expressed concern over the disruption, as digital payments have become essential for daily sales.
On Ambedkar Jayanti, PM Modi to launch Hisar-Ayodhya flight during Haryana visit
On the occasion of Ambedkar Jayanti, Prime Minister Narendra Modi will visit Haryana on April 14. He will travel to Hisar and at around 10:15 a.m., he will flag off a commercial flight from Hisar to Ayodhya and lay the foundation stone for the new terminal building of Hisar airport. He will also address a public meeting.
PM Modi to launch development projects in Haryana on Ambedkar birth anniversary
Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to inaugurate and lay the foundation for multiple development projects in Haryana on April 14, coinciding with Bhim Rao Ambedkar's birth anniversary. These initiatives include flagging off a Hisar-Ayodhya flight, laying the foundation for Hisar airport's new terminal, and launching an 800 MW thermal power unit in Yamuna Nagar.
3 days before Hisar airport opening by PM, fire during animal capture op sparks row
Haryana CM Saini directs officials to remove wildlife from Hisar airport ahead of PM Modis visit
Mr. Saini was on his visit to Hisar to review the preparedness for Mr. Modis visit.
A senior Haryana wildlife official, Subhas Yadav, faced transfer due to an incorrect safety certificate for Hisar airport. The certificate claimed the airport was free of wildlife. However, a subsequent inspection revealed animals inside the perimeter. This discrepancy occurred before Prime Minister Narendra Modi's scheduled inauguration. Officials are now working to clear the area by April 10.
Modi Government uplifted India's health infrastructure, says Amit Shah in Hisar
Amit Shah highlights Modi governments achievements in health infrastructure, including poverty reduction, housing, and medical college expansion
Modi govt uplifted Indias health infra, says Amit Shah in Hisar
Hisar, Mar 31: Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Monday said that the Narendra Modi government, over the past decade, has uplifted Indias health infrastructure by taking a holistic approach to improve the health sector across the entire country. Shah stated that the health infrastructure has been improved from the primary to tertiary level. He [] The post Modi govt uplifted Indias health infra, says Amit Shah in Hisar appeared first on Northlines .
Rs 64,000 crore spent on creating public and community health centres: Amit Shah at Hisar
Union Home Minister Amit Shah highlighted the Modi government's achievements in the health sector, including lifting 25 crore people out of poverty and constructing 4 crore houses. Significant investments were made in medical infrastructure, with Rs 64,000 crores spent on Public Health Centres and increasing the number of AIIMS hospitals to 23.
Modi Govt Uplifted Indias Health Infrastructure, Says Amit Shah In Hisar
Hisar, Mar 31: Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Monday said that the Narendra Modi government, over the past decade, has uplifted Indias health infrastructure by taking a holistic approach to improve the health sector across the entire country. Shah stated that the health infrastructure has been improved from the primary to tertiary level. He was addressing a gathering after unveiling a statue of Maharaja Agrasen at the Maharaja Agrasen Medical College campus in Agroha here. On the occasion, he [] The post Modi Govt Uplifted Indias Health Infrastructure, Says Amit Shah In Hisar appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
PM Modi to inaugurate air travel services from Hisar airport on April 14
Haryana Chief Minister, Nayab Singh Saini, on Friday said Prime Minister Narendra Modi will inaugurate air travel services from the Hisar airport on April 14.
Mumbai Metro Line-9 On Fast Track: Phase 1 From Dahisar East To Kashigaon Set For Year-End Launch
Boxer Saweety Boora assaults husband Deepak Hooda at Hisar police station in viral video; WATCH
In a video from the police station that has since gone viral, Saweety can be seen aggressively approaching Deepak and hitting him. Family members present there soon intervened and stopped the altercation.
PM Modi To Inaugurate Hisar Airport On April 14
Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini informed reporters that PM Modi will be the chief guest at a state-level function commemorating Dr BR Ambedkar's birth anniversary on the same day.
Haryana CM Saini presents Rs 2.05 lakh crore budget with aim to make State 'future capable'
CHANDIGARH: Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini presented the budget for the financial year 2025-26 envisaging an outlay of Rs 2.05 lakh crore to make the state 'future capable.' A new department named 'Department of Future' will be created and a new authority 'Substance Abuse Narcotics Knowledge Awareness and Liberation Program' (SANKALP) will be set up to tackle the spread of drugs in the state. Besides, the government will also establish the Haryana AI (Artificial Intelligence) Mission to establish Haryana AI to which the World Bank has assured to provide assistance of Rs 474 crore. The AI mission will also help creating hubs in Gurugram and Panchkula. In his maiden budget address, the CM Saini who holds the finance portfolio said that the government had received 11,000 suggestions regarding budget expectations and out of the 217 manifesto promises, 19 have already been fulfilled. He also informed that the establishment of the 'Department of Future' will focus on exploring future technologies and their potential benefits and their utilisation to make Haryana 'future capable'. Saini said that the budget envisages an outlay of Rs 2,05,017.29 crore for 2025-26, up 13.70 per cent from revised estimates of 2024-25. He said that in the last 10 years, the Haryana government laid great emphasis on e-governance. Saini also proposed that the setting up of 'Substance Abuse and Narcotics Knowledge Awareness and Liberation Programme Authority' will save people from drug abuse. An amount of Rs 10 crore has been earmarked for the authority. To promote startups, the Haryana government will also encourage private investors to create a 'fund of funds' of Rs 2,000 crore. Also, Rs 5,000 crore has been proposed for Rs 2,100 monthly assistance to women under 'Lado Lakshmi Yojana' for the financial year 2025-26. Saini also proposed to set up a Horticulture Research Centre in Palwal and flower market in Gurugram. He highlighted education and health as two crucial sectors for the state's development. In response to public demand, he also announced the establishment of model Sanskriti schools every 10 kilometres. He also proposed the launch of the Kalpana Chawla scholarship to support students. He also announced an air cargo facility for horticulture produce at Hisar airport and to set-up new cow sanctuaries in every district of the state. Under 'Mera Pani Meri Virasat Yojana', subsidy for giving up paddy cultivation is to be hiked from Rs 7,000 per acre to Rs 8,000 per acre he said. He added that the Horticulture policy is to be brought in for farmer producer organisations (FPO) registered as cooperative societies. The state will launch 'Mission 2026 Olympics Medals' with Rs 20 crore allocated for preparation. Saini said that in 2014-15 the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) of the state was Rs 4,37,145 crore, while the projected GDP for 2024-25 is Rs 12,13,951 crore. While the per capita Income of Haryana in 2014-15 was Rs 1,47,382, it is estimated to reach Rs 3,53,182 crore in 2024-25. The state's GDP has grown at an average annual rate of 10.8 per cent, while the Per Capita Income has increased at an average annual rate of 9.1 per cent. Saini said that as per the Fiscal Responsibility and Budget Management (FRBM) Act, no state governments fiscal deficit should exceed 3 per cent of the GDP in any given year. He highlighted that the reduction from 2.88 per cent in 2014-15 to 2.68 per cent in 2024-25 demonstrates efficient financial management. Looking ahead of 2025-26, the government aims to further reduce the fiscal deficit, targeting a decrease to 2.67 per cent of the state's GDP. He said that it is a universally accepted economic principle that the government should not borrow for revenue expenditure. However, he emphasised that borrowing for capital expenditure, within reasonable limits, is acceptable and should, in fact, be encouraged. Saini's wife, Suman Saini, Haryana BJP in-charge Satish Punia, state party chief Mohan Lal Badoli and other senior leaders were present in the speakers gallery to hear Sains maiden budget address.
Severe groundwater contamination detected in over 30,000 rural wards in Bihar: Report
PATNA: Bihar is grappling with severe groundwater contamination, with 30,207 rural wards exposed to unsafe drinking water that poses serious health risks, according to a new report. The report, which was recently tabled in the assembly as part of the Bihar Economic Survey (2024-25), highlighted the presence of arsenic in groundwater in 4,709 such wards, fluoride in 3,789 wards and iron in 21,709 wards. Around 26 per cent of the rural wards in 31 districts, out of a total of 38, have groundwater sources affected by arsenic, fluoride and iron contamination beyond permissible limits, the state's Public Health Engineering Department (PHED) said in the study. The affected wards are located in Buxar, Bhojpur, Patna, Saran, Vaishali, Lakhisarai, Darbhanga, Samastipur, Begusarai, Khagara, Munger, Katihar, Bhagalpur, Sitamarhi, Kaimur, Rohtas, Aurangabad, Gaya, Nalanda, Nawada, Sheikhpura, Jamui, Banka, Supaul, Madhepura, Saharsa, Araria and Kishanganj districts. We are aware of the fact. Sensing the gravity of the situation, the state government has decided to make rural Bihar 'hand pump-free' and provide safe drinking water to people in the rural areas under the 'Har Ghar Nal ka Jal' scheme, PHED Minister Niraj Kumar Singh told PTI. The government is also implementing multi-village schemes (MVS) to improve water quality in the state, he said. Under the 'Har Ghar Nal ka Jal' scheme, PHED is providing safe drinking water to 83.76 lakh families in rural areas, he said, adding, potable water is also being made available to families in the 30,207 rural wards where the contamination is high. The state government is already working on a plan to use river water for drinking purposes. In September 2024, Chief Minister Nitish Kumar laid the foundation stone of a Rs 1,347-crore project for the supply of water from Sone river for drinking purposes in Aurangabad, Dehri and Sasaram cities after necessary treatment, the minister said. The scheme will use the water of Son river, ending the dependence of these cities on groundwater, he said. The project is likely to be completed in two years. In 2023, the CM dedicated the ambitious Ganga Water Supply Scheme (GWSS) or the 'Ganga Jal Apoorti Yojana' to the people of Gaya, Rajgir and Nawada. Under the scheme, people in these districts are provided an uninterrupted supply of clean and safe drinking water, Singh said. Dr Manoj Kumar, a leading gastroenterologist in Bihar, told PTI, The high level of chemical contamination in groundwater is certainly a matter of concern. The authorities must identify the source of contamination and take appropriate steps. Besides, camps should also be organised in the affected wards on a regular basis to make people aware of the adverse effects of consumption of contaminated groundwater. The authorities should come out with standardisation and classification of the quality of water used for drinking purposes. Kumar said drinking water quality standards should describe the quality parameters. Water may contain many harmful constituents, yet there are no recognised and accepted standards for drinking water in the country. The type of contaminant and its health effects vary depending on the water source, he said. The health impacts of water contamination can vary from a bout of stomach infection to terminal illnesses like cancer, Kumar said. The methods of purification depend on specific contaminants in a person's water source. Therefore, detailed water quality standards must be introduced by the authorities concerned, he added.
BJP sweeps Haryana civic polls, big setback for Cong
The BJP registered emphatic victories in seven municipal corporations in Haryana, while its nominees were leading in two other civic bodies in the recently held elections. The Congress, which was hoping to improve its electoral fortunes after a defeat in the 2024 Assembly polls, suffered another setback. The BJP candidates won with large margins in Faridabad, Gurugram, Hisar, Karnal, Rohtak, Sonipat, and Ambala. The BJP was also leading in Yamunanagar and Panipat. In Manesar, an Independent candidate, Inderjeet Yadav, won the mayoral election. The results are seen as a major setback for the Congress, which has been facing internal turmoil and factionalism.
BJP set to sweep Haryana civic polls, its eight mayoral candidates in the lead
CHANDIGARH: The mayoral candidate of the BJP won the Ambala municipal corporation and its nominees were leading in eight other civic bodies in Haryana, as the counting of votes for the recently held elections went underway on Wednesday. The Congress, which was hoping to make a comeback after suffering a defeat in the 2024 Assembly polls, was trailing. Elections for the posts of mayor and ward members in the municipal corporations of Manesar, Gurugram, Faridabad, Hisar, Rohtak, Karnal, Yamunanagar, Panipat, Ambala and Sonipat were held earlier this month. Bypolls for the post of mayor in the municipal corporations of Ambala and Sonipat were also held. In Ambala, Shailja Sachdeva, the BJP candidate for the mayor's post, defeated her nearest Congress rival Amisha Chawla by a margin of 20,487 votes. In Faridabad, the ruling party's mayoral candidate Parveen Joshi was leading over Congress' Lata Rani, while Raj Rani of BJP was leading over Seema Pahuja from Gurugram. In Manesar, however, BJP candidate Sunder Lal was trailing Independent candidate Inderjeet Yadav. Praveen Popli of the BJP was leading from Hisar over the Congress' Krishan Singla. In Karnal, the BJP's Renu Bala Gupta was ahead of the Congress' Manoj Wadhwa. In Panipat, the BJP's Komal Saini was leading over Congress' Savita Garg while Ram Avtar of the Safron outfit was leading over Surajmal Kiloi in Rohtak. Senior BJP leader Rajiv Jain was leading over Congress' Komal Dewan in Sonipat. In Yamunanagar, Suman of the BJP was ahead of Congress' Kirna Devi. Extensive arrangements have been made by the Haryana State Election Commission in coordination with the district administrations concerned to ensure smooth conduct of the counting process, officials said.
Hisar woman arrested for beating mother over property dispute in a viral video
The suspect, identified as Rita, was charged with criminal intimidation, voluntarily causing hurt, wrongful confinement and uttering obscene words
Abhisarga 2025 showcases talent of IIIT-S students in emerging tech areas
Themed as Mystery and Magic, the event symbolises the fusion of technology and creativity, says the Registrar
Polling under way for Haryana municipal elections
Voting is being held for the election of mayors and all ward members in seven municipal corporations of Gurugram, Manesar, Faridabad, Hisar, Rohtak, Karnal, and Yamunanagar in Haryana
Polling underway for municipal elections in Haryana
CHANDIGARH: Polling was underway for election of mayors and all ward members in seven municipal corporations and some other municipalities of Haryana on Sunday, officials said. Voting is being held for the election of mayors and all ward members in seven municipal corporations of Gurugram, Manesar, Faridabad, Hisar, Rohtak, Karnal, and Yamunanagar. Additionally, by-elections for the post of mayor in Ambala and Sonipat municipal corporations, are also taking place. The voting is being held from 8 am to 6 pm. Similarly, elections are being conducted for the president and all ward members of four municipal councils of Ambala Sadar, Pataudi Jatoli Mandi, Thanesar, and Sirsa. Bye-election is also being held for the post of president in municipal council Sohna, district Gurugram. VIDEO | Haryana: Security deployed outside a polling booth in Karnal as municipal election is underway. (Full video available on PTI Videos - https://t.co/n147TvrpG7 ) pic.twitter.com/fvV2N54EzC Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) March 2, 2025 Voting is also taking place for the election of presidents and all ward members in 21 municipal committees. Bye-elections for the post of president in Assandh (Karnal district) and Ismailabad (Kurukshetra district) municipal committee is also taking place. Among the early voters included Union Minister Manohar Lal Khattar, who cast his vote at a polling booth in Karnal. Khattar appealed to voters to come out and cast their vote. Casting vote is our democratic right and it is also our duty to exercise our franchise, he said. VIDEO | Haryana Municipal Elections: Union Minister and Former CM of Haryana Manohar Lal Khattar ( @mlkhattar ) is in Karnal to cast his vote. Here's what he said: The local government is an important part in democracy. The BJP got successes in Lok Sabha and Vidhan Sabha pic.twitter.com/P8rmJHFlep Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) March 2, 2025 Haryana State Election Commissioner Dhanpat Singh said extensive arrangements, including those pertaining to security, have been made for the free, fair and transparent elections of the urban local bodies. Singh said that 39 candidates are contesting for the posts of mayor in nine municipal corporations. Similarly, 27 candidates are in the fray for the posts of president in five municipal councils. A total of 151 candidates are contesting for the posts of president in 23 municipal committees. In some wards, only one candidate has filed a nomination, leading to their unopposed election. The polls are being conducted through EVMs. Polling for the Panipat municipal corporation will take place on March 9. After the completion of the election process, vote counting will begin at 8 AM on March 12, and results will be declared on the same day. Earlier, Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini exuded confidence that the BJP will win the civic polls and said that after the formation of the riple-engine government, work will be done three times faster. The Congress has appealed to the electorate for a full majority for the party. Congress worker's body found stuffed in suitcase in Haryana's Rohtak, party demands high-level probe
This Is Fun, I Will Drink Your Blood: Woman Bites, Beats Mother In Haryana
A heart-breaking video is being widely shared on social media in which a woman from Haryana's Hisar bites her mother, says she will drink her blood, pulls her hair and slaps and beats her.
Police in Haryana's Hisar have lodged a First Information Report (FIR) under Section 85 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), which pertains to a husband or relatives of the husband subjecting a woman to cruelty.
CHANDIGARH: Union Minister and former Haryana Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar on Thursday referred to the Indian immigrants deported from the US as criminals and said o sympathy should be shown towards them. Those who have entered a country illegally are criminals. There should be no sympathy towards them. Our people undertake these journeys despite being advised against it. They should not take this route. It is as bad as drug addiction. Why should we show sympathy towards them? the minister said when asked about the inhumane conditions the deportees were subjected to. He also raised concern regarding how to rehabilitate the returned immigrants. Whichever way they have been sent back, it is now our worry as to how we have to rehabilitate them, Khattar said. Khattar's statement comes amid growing criticism against the BJP-led Union Government for its refusal to intervene in the issue of the inhumane treatment of Indian immigrants deported from the US. As many as 333 illegal immigrants were brought back to India on three US military aircrafts, handcuffed and shackled. The deportees were also subjected to human rights violations prompting criticism from the opposition parties regarding the Centre's inaction. Speaking of increasing migrations from the country, Khattar cited the example of the Dabri village in Haryana's Karnal, from where over 300 youth had reportedly travelled abroad via the 'Dunky Route'. Khattar said that during the parliamentary elections last year, he had visited the village and was shocked to find out that there was only one person in the whole village who was a government employee. Khattar emphasised that travelling via such methods is illegal as there is no surety if the person who goes abroad will be able to return or not. This route is very risky, he said. Khattar's statement comes just a few days ahead of the voting for municipality election which is scheduled to be held on March 2. The 113 illegal immigrants from the state who have been deported back are mostly from Ambala, Kurukshetra, Karnal, Kaithal and Hisar. These deportees had paid travel agents between Rs 40 lakh to Rs 70 lakh and a family of four from Kurukshetra including two minors paid Rs 1.20 crore to reach the US. The Haryana Police has registered about 20 criminal cases across the state against the travel agents and a few accused have also been arrested.
Union Power and Urban Development Minister and former Haryana Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar said that there should be no sympathy towards deportees as they went abroad illegally through the dunky route. He spoke about the village in Haryana where over 300 youth have settled abroad and mostly went via the 'Dunky Route'. This comes amid the United States deported as many as 333 illegal immigrants back to India on three flights and 12 from Panama. Khattar said this just a few days ahead of the voting for municipality election which is scheduled to be held on March 2. Citing an example of the village Dabri in Karnal, Khattar said that during the parliamentary elections last year, he had visited the village and was shocked to find out that there was only one person in the whole village who was a government employee. He was told that over 300 villagers have settled abroad and most of them have gone through dunki route. Khattar said that this is illegal and there is no surety if the person who goes abroad through this method will be able to return or not. This route is very risky, he added. In a reply to another question about the illegal immigrants who were deported back from the US and were handcuffed, Khattar said that every country has its own law and regulations and one cannot argue about that. Those who have entered a country illegally are criminals. There should be no sympathy towards them. Our people undertake these journeys despite being advised against it. They should not take this route. It is as bad as drug addiction. Why should we show sympathy towards them? He further added, Whichever way they have been sent back, it is now our worry as to how we have to rehabilitate them. The 113 illegal immigrants from the state who have been deported back are mostly from Ambala, Kurukshetra, Karnal, Kaithal and Hisar. These deportees had paid travel agents between Rs 40 lakh to Rs 70 lakh and a family of four from Kurukshetra including two minors paid Rs 1.20 crore to reach the US. The Haryana Police has registered about 20 criminal cases across the state against the travel agents and a few accused have also been arrested.
Meet man who failed 35 exams, cracked UPSC exam and became IPS officer then quit due to...
IAS Vijay Vardhan hails from the Sirsa district of Haryana. After completing his studies in Electronics Engineering from Hisar, he moved to Delhi to prepare for the UPSC exam.
Crypto fraud crackdown: CBI raids 11 places in Delhi, Haryana; seizes Rs 1.08 crore
NEW DELHI: The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) on Saturday said it has conducted raids at 11 locations across Delhi and Haryana on Friday as part of its investigation into a crypto fraud case leading to the seizure of Rs 1.08 crore in cash, foreign currency and gold. According to a senior CBI official the agency raided nine locations in Delhi and two at Hisar in Haryana, as part of the investigation into a two-year-old case. The agencys search operations formed part of a larger effort to counter cybercrime, particularly those cases involving cryptocurrency fraud, he said. The accused individuals were allegedly involved in a complex scheme, impersonating government officials to deceive people. These criminals engaged in fraudulent activities, including offering fake technical support consultations, to trick victims into transferring money via cryptocurrency, the official said. The investigation revealed that the perpetrators were targeting both Indian and international victims, coercing them into transferring funds in cryptocurrency, the official said, adding that the money was then routed through several crypto wallets before being converted into cash. During the searches, the CBI sleuths found several pieces of digital evidence, including six laptops, eight mobile phones, and one iPad. The investigators also discovered that the suspects had used computer programmess for making VoIP-based calls and accessing the darknet, he said. In addition to the cash, the CBI seized foreign currency worth USD 1,000 and 252 grams of gold. The CBI has already filed a charge sheet in the case against three accused persons under Sections 120B read with 420 and 384 IPC, along with Section 66D of the IT Act, 2000, the official said.
Crypto fraud case: CBI searches 11 locations in Delhi, Haryana
New Delhi: The CBI has conducted searches at 11 locations in Delhi and Haryana on alleged cyber criminals who were cheating people by impersonating as government officers resulting in seizure of Rs 1.08 crore cash, officials said Saturday. The searches were conducted at nine locations in Delhi and two in Haryanas Hisar on Friday in [] The post Crypto fraud case: CBI searches 11 locations in Delhi, Haryana appeared first on Northlines .
Haryana government faces backlash over decision to allow shooting of Nilgais
CHANDIGARH: The Haryana government's recent approval of the new Wildlife (Protection) Rules, allowing the shooting of male Nilgais (blue bulls), has sparked widespread protests and condemnation from environmentalists and the Bishnoi community. Activists have urged Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini to revoke the decision and explore alternative measures for human-wildlife conflict management. People for Aravallis, an environmental group, has sent a representation to the Chief Minister, expressing distress over the governments decision. Neelam Ahluwalia, founder member of People for Aravallis, said, Shooting Nilgais to solve the problem of these animals entering farmers fields and destroying crops is neither an ethical nor a sustainable solution. Many farmers who are part of our group from different areas in Haryana, along with other rural stakeholders we consulted over the last few days, have highlighted that stray cattle pose a far more serious threat to agricultural crops than Nilgais. We urge the government to revoke the rule permitting the shooting of male Nilgais and implement an appropriate management plan for human-wildlife conflict after consulting conservationists, ecologists, retired foresters, wildlife experts, farmer groups, and other rural stakeholders, he said Retired Conservator of Forests, South Circle Haryana, R.P. Balwan, criticised the decision, stating, Nilgais are an integral part of Haryanas natural ecosystem, contributing to biodiversity and maintaining ecological balance. Legally allowing them to be killed not only disrupts this delicate balance but also sets a dangerous precedent for human-wildlife conflict management. This move contradicts the spirit of the Wildlife (Protection) Act of 1972. The representation to the Chief Minister proposed that if certain areas in Haryana have an overpopulation of Nilgais, the animals could be translocated to other similar habitats in Haryana or Rajasthan, where their natural predators can help restore ecological balance. It also highlighted conservation efforts in Fatehabad district, led by Vinod Karwasra, State President of Akhil Bhartiya Jeev Raksha Bishnoi Sabha Haryana. These efforts include removing invasive species like Surajmukhi grass and Parthenium, while planting native trees, grasses, and shrubs essential for local wildlife, including Blackbucks and Nilgais. Activists urged that similar conservation practices be replicated across Haryana. Rakesh Ahlawat, a wildlife researcher and conservationist from Rohtak, suggested, Banis in villages across Haryana, where they still exist, should be legally designated as community reserves and used as a refuge for Nilgais and other wildlife. These areas should be fenced to keep the animals inside, and rural communities should be encouraged to develop banis in every village using Shamlat Deh, Panchayat, and Gaucharan land. Ajay Yadav, a farmer from Mahendergarh district, recommended alternative solutions to prevent crop damage, saying, Rural communities can use fencing techniques like Chara Bandhi, where 5-6 feet jhaads are planted along the edges of fields to act as physical barriers, and Samuhik Taarbandhi, where communities collectively set up fencing to keep animals out. If crops are still damaged, farmers should be supported through insurance schemes and timely compensation. Tannuja Chauhan, a member of People for Aravallis, suggested employing local guards to protect crops, saying, When our team spoke to rural stakeholders across different districts, they suggested that a few villagers be appointed as guards carrying Gandhak Potash, a non-bullet device that makes a loud noise to scare away Nilgais, stray cattle, and other animals. This activity could be included under MGNREGA to ensure payment for the guards. Meanwhile, the All India Jeev Raksha Bishnoi Sabha has also protested against the state governments decision. Members of the Bishnoi community gathered at the Bishnoi temple in Hisar and Fatehabad, submitting a memorandum addressed to the Chief Minister. Chandra Singh Saharan, president of the Bishnoi Sabha, demanded that the government reconsider its decision.
ICAR gets license for worlds first lumpy skin disease vaccine
Bharat Biotech in collaboration with the Indian Council for Agricultural Research(ICAR) has developed the worlds first vaccine for cattles Lumpy Skin Disease (LSD), which received green signal from the drug controller authority. The vaccine, named BIOLUMPIVAXIN, has received approval from India's drug regulatory authority, the Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO). This is the first-ever Differentiating Infected from Vaccinated Animals (DIVA) marker vaccine for LSD. The disease, which affects cattle and Asian water buffaloes, is spread by insects and causes a significant loss of milk production, leading to economic damage for farmers. Lumpy Skin Disease (LSD) was first detected in India in July 2019 in Odisha and later spread to 20 states by the end of 2020, putting at risk Indias 303 million cattle and buffalo population that drives the countrys milk production. Over the past two years, nearly 200,000 cattle have died, and millions more have lost their milk-producing ability due to the disease. India is the worlds largest milk producer, contributing over 22% of global milk production, followed by the EU-28 and the United States. The vaccines quality, safety, and effectiveness have been thoroughly tested at the ICAR-National Research Centre on Equines (ICAR-NRCE) in Hisar and the Indian Veterinary Research Institute (IVRI) to ensure it meets global standards. This new indigenous live-attenuated marker vaccine was developed using the LSD virus/Ranchi/2019 strain from ICAR-NRCE in collaboration with Bharat Biotechs Biovet. The CDSCO licensure for this vaccine is a significant step toward India's self-reliance (Atmanirbhar Bharat) in veterinary healthcare, which avoids dependency on imported vaccines, said Dr. Krishna Ella, Founder of Biovet, a Bharat Biotech group company. He further stated that the vaccine will be commercially available soon. It will be provided in a freeze-dried form with stabilizing agents for long-term storage. A separate diluent will be supplied for reconstitution before use. The disease was first discovered in Zambia in 1929. Since then, it has spread across Africa, the Middle East, Southeastern Europe, Central Asia, and more recently, South Asia and China.
Biovet's New Vaccine to Combat Lumpy Skin Disease in Cattle
Bharat Biotech's group company, Biovet, has received approval from the Central Drug Standards Control Organization (CDSCO) for its new vaccine, Biolumpivaxin. This vaccine is the world's first and only one that can tell the difference between cattle that are vaccinated and those that are naturally infected with lumpy skin disease (LSD). Biolumpivaxin is a breakthrough vaccine that is safe and effective for dairy cattle and buffaloes. It has been tested for quality, safety, and effectiveness at trusted research institutes like ICAR-NRCE and the Indian Veterinary Research Institute (IVRI). The vaccine was developed using the LSD virus strain from ICAR-NRCE in Hisar, with help from Biovet's scientists. After three years of research, the vaccine is ready for use. Dr. Krishna Ella, Biovet's founder, called the vaccine a game-changer for fighting animal diseases, helping workers know whether an animal was vaccinated or naturally infected with LSD. This new vaccine is important for Indias veterinary healthcare as it helps reduce dependence on foreign vaccines. It will also play a key role in improving the countrys livestock health and ensuring the dairy industry stays strong. Lumpy skin disease has caused major problems in India, killing around 200,000 cattle and affecting milk production. Biolumpivaxin will soon be available to help protect against this disease. Biovets plant in Karnataka can produce up to 500 million doses of the vaccine each year. The vaccine is easy to store and only needs to be given once a year to cattle and buffaloes over 3 months old. With this new vaccine, India is one step closer to eliminating LSD and protecting its livestock. History of Lumpy Skin Disease Lumpy Skin Disease (LSD) was first found in Zambia, Africa, in 1929. For many years, it stayed only in Africa. Then, in 1988, it reached Egypt, and in 1989, it spread to Israel. Over time, the disease spread further, affecting parts of the Middle East, Europe, and many Asian countries, including India. India saw its first confirmed outbreak in 2019. Since then, the disease has spread quickly across different states, causing big economic losses and reducing milk production. How to Control LSD Vaccination is the best way to control LSD, especially using vaccines made specifically for this disease. When cattle and buffaloes are vaccinated, their immune systems learn to fight the virus. However, it takes about three to four weeks for the animals to build full immunity. Thats why it is important to vaccinate them in advance. This helps protect dairy animals of all ages before the disease spreads.
Lumpy skin disease vaccine developed by Bharat Biotech group firm with ICAR gets CDSCO licence
The vaccine is the result of three years of research by scientists at National Research Centre on Equines, Hisar
Mumbai Eye on lines of London Eye: BMC submits Rs 74K cr budget
MUMBAI: Brihanmumbai Municipal Commissioner Bhushan Gagrani on Tuesday unveiled the BMCs largest-ever Rs 74,427-crore budget for fiscal year 2025-26, which is 14.19% more than the previous years. The BMC proposes to develop the Mumbai Eye in line with the United Kingdoms iconic London Eye on a private participation model. The corporation revived the project shelved over a decade ago. It will require two to three acres of land. The BMC also plans a Tiger Monument as part of the GMLR project in collaboration with the forest and tourism departments. A suitable location within the tunnel passing underneath Sanjay Gandhi National Park will be identified. Of the budgetary allocation, Rs 43,162 crore goes to capital expenditure, mainly for developmental and city infra projects. The revenue expenditure has reduced from 75% to 42%, curbing costs in salaries and administration. Gagrani presented his first budget, the BMCs third without an elected body. With the upcoming BMC elections, the Mahayuti-controlled corporation refrained from introducing new taxes. BMC has urged the state government to classify its key projectssuch as the Mumbai Coastal Road (South) from Marine Drive to the Bandra-Worli Sea Link, Goregaon-Mulund Link Road (GMLR), Mumbai Coastal Road (North) from Versova to Dahisar, and the Elevated Road from Link Road to Dahisar (West)--as vital urban transport projects under the Maharashtra Regional and Town Planning Act, 1986. Largest ever budget BMCs 2025-25 annual budget: Rs 74,427.41 crore Rs 60.65 crore surplus budget Revenue income: Rs 43,159 crore Capital expenditure: Rs 31.204 crore Grant in aid compensations in lieu of octroi: Rs 14,398 crore Development Planning (DP) fees and premium: Rs 9,700 crore
BMC Budget 2025: Free Healthcare, BEST Grant, Tax On Slum Business And More 10 Key Highlights
From education-focussed welfare schemes to the proposed commercial and transportation hub in Dahisar, here are the key takeaways from Mumbai's Rs 74,400-crore budget.
Rape convict Gurmeet Ram Rahim Singh out of jail on 30-day parole
Chandigarh: Dera Sacha Sauda chief and rape convict Gurmeet Ram Rahim Singh was released from a jail in Haryana's Rohtak on Tuesday after being granted a 30-day parole, a development which came ahead of the February 5 Delhi assembly polls. The 57-year-old Singh headed to his Sirsa-headquartered Dera in Haryana after walking out of the Sunaria jail in Rohtak, sources said. It is for the first time that Singh has visited the Dera in Sirsa ever since he was sentenced to jail in 2017 in the rape case. Earlier, he used to stay at the Dera ashram in Uttar Pradesh's Baghpat during his parole. One of the Dera chief's counsel said he has been granted 30-day parole. Singh is expected to stay at Sirsa for ten days and at the Bhagpat ashram for the remaining days. After reaching the Dera in Sirsa, Singh released a video message for his followers, asking them not to visit the Dera. A police official from Sirsa also confirmed that Singh has reached the Dera there. Singh is serving a 20-year sentence given in 2017 for raping two of his disciples. His parole comes days ahead of the polls in Delhi. Last time, Singh was granted a 20-day parole on October 1 last year. That had also come ahead of the October 5 Haryana assembly polls. In the past, some of Singh's paroles and furloughs have coincided with polls in Punjab, Haryana and neighbouring states. Sikhs organisations like the SGPC have in the past criticised the grant of relief to Singh. In August last year, Singh was granted a 21-day furlough. He was granted three weeks' furlough from February 7, 2022, barely two weeks before the Punjab assembly polls. In May, the high court here acquitted Singh and four others in the 2002 murder of the sect's former manager Ranjit Singh, citing ainted and sketchy investigations in the matter. A special CBI court had sentenced them to life imprisonment in the nearly 20-year-old murder case. Singh had been held guilty of hatching a criminal conspiracy with his co-accused. The Sirsa-headquartered Dera Sacha Sauda has a number of followers in Haryana, Punjab, Rajasthan and other states. In Haryana, the Dera has a sizable number of followers in many districts, including Sirsa, Fatehabad, Kurukshetra, Kaithal and Hisar.
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Bihar CM Nitish Kumar postpones Pragati Yatra due to ill health
PATNA: Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar has postponed his ongoing Pragati Yatra due to ill health. Scheduled to visit Purnea on January 27 as part of the third phase of his yatra, the CM is reportedly suffering from seasonal fever and is expected to recover after rest. A letter issued by the CM secretariat on January 27 stated that he would resume the yatra on January 28. Nitish Kumar launched the Pragati Yatra from Bagaha in West Champaran district on December 22. During this statewide initiative, he reviews various development schemes in meetings held with district officials. The third phase of the yatra, which began on January 16, was initially planned to conclude on January 29, covering seven districts in 12 days. Despite his illness, the Chief Minister attended the Republic Day flag-hoisting ceremony at Gandhi Maidan on January 26 but skipped a reception hosted at Raj Bhavan by the newly appointed Governor Arif Mohammad Khan. Nitish also missed unfurling the national flag at a Mahadalit hamlet, a tradition he initiated in 2005 after assuming office. The Chief Minister was in Saharsa on January 23, where he laid the foundation stone and inaugurated 52 development schemes worth 210 crore. After resuming the yatra, he will visit Katihar on January 28 and Madhepura on January 30. The fourth phase is scheduled to begin on February 1 in Bhagalpur, followed by visits to Banka on February 2, Munger on February 6, Lakhisarai and Sheikhpura on February 8, Jamui on February 10, and Nawada on February 11.
Haryana Khaps demand banning on live-in relationships, love marriages without consent
CHANDIGARH: The Khap Panchayats in Haryana have called for amendments to the Hindu Marriage Act to address what they describe as growing social issues in rural and urban areas. Representatives of around a dozen panchayats met Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini on Friday, submitting a memorandum demanding a ban on live-in relationships, mandatory parental consent for love marriages, and restrictions on marriages within the same village, neighbouring villages (guvandh), and the same clan (gotra). They also opposed increasing the legal marriage age to 21 years and same-sex marriages. Sanjay Deswal, chief of the Akhil Bhartiya Deswal Khap, explained the concerns during a conversation with The New Indian Express. He claimed that live-in relationships are increasingly common in both villages and cities, disrupting the social fabric. Citing a recent incident in a Rohtak village, he said, A mother of three left her husband and children to live with another married man. We have come across many such cases. If anyone wishes to live in a live-in relationship, they should first legally end their previous marriage. This new concept is harmful to our societal values. Deswal also stressed the need for parental consent in love marriages, arguing that such marriages often fail when undertaken without family support. Nowadays, children come and announce they are married, but these marriages rarely last long. Parents, who have more life experience, should have a say in such decisions, he said. Regarding the legal age for marriage, Deswal opposed increasing it from 18 to 21 years, arguing that many girls are married earlier due to family circumstances. We are not against girls marrying at 21 or later if they pursue education or careers. But parents should have the discretion to decide, as 18-year-olds are already eligible to vote. If they are mature enough to vote, why not marry? he questioned. He further argued that same-sex marriages should be banned and urged the government to uphold cultural values and traditions. Marriages within the same village, neighboring villages, or the same gotra should also be prohibited. In our culture, we consider girls from the same village or sub-caste as sisters. Such marriages would destroy our social ties, Deswal said, adding that these practices are restricted in districts like Rohtak, Sonepat, Hisar, and Jind. Satish Singh, a member of the Satrol Khap and coordinator of an 11-member committee representing 102 khap panchayats, echoed similar sentiments. He argued that marriages within the same gotra should be banned, citing scientific evidence about shared DNA and its implications. Singh also emphasized the importance of banning live-in relationships, mandating parental consent for love marriages, and retaining 18 as the minimum marriageable age, citing social factors. The panchayats expressed hope that the state government would consider their demands and amend the Hindu Marriage Act to reflect local cultural values and traditions.
Driver killed as cab catches fire after being hit by truck in Mumbai
MUMBAI: A cab driver died after his vehicle was hit by a concrete mixer truck and caught fire in Mumbai in the wee hours of Thursday, police said. The incident took place near Dahisar Naka in western suburbs at 2.15 am, an official said. The cab, with the driver and a passenger onboard, was heading towards Kandivali, he said. A speeding mixer truck, going from Dahisar to Kandivali, hit the road divider after one of its tyres burst, the official said. The truck driver then lost control over the wheels, and the vehicle jumped the divider and hit the cab, he said. A spark occurred in the cab, leading to a fire which engulfed the vehicle, the official said. While the passenger got down and ran to safety, the driver, Masood Alam Shaikh, got stuck between the steering wheel and his seat and was not able to come out, he said. After being alerted, personnel from the Kasturba Marg police station reached the spot. They pulled out the driver from the cab and rushed him to hospital where he was declared dead on arrival, the official said. The cab driver, resident of Marol area in Mumbai, died in the car due to serious burn injuries, the official said. The truck driver was arrested and a case was registered against him, the police added.
Bihar police foil major Naxal operation; seize huge quantity of explosives, raw materials
PATNA: Bihar police foiled a major operation of the Maoists in Bihar's Gaya district following the recovery of a large quantity of landmines, improvised explosive devices (IEDs) and raw materials during a special drive launched against the red rebels in the wake of the recent attack on security forces in Chattisgarh on Monday. At least eight security personnel and a civilian were killed in an IED blast in the Bijapur district of Chhattisgarh. A special team of central armed police and the special task force (STF) of the state police cordoned off Tarchua locality, a part of Chhakarbandha forest in Gaya district in the early hours of Wednesday after being tipped off that the area was being used by Maoists as their safe haven. A cave-like corner of Chhakarbandha forest was being used for making IEDs and landmines. The huge stock of explosives and raw materials for manufacturing high-quality IEDs indicated that the Maoists had planned to carry out a Chhattisgarh-type operation in Bihar's Chhakrbandha forest, close to the Jharkhand border. This is for the first time when such a quantity of explosives has been seized, sub-divisional police officer (SDPO), Imamganj, Amit Kumar said. The seized articles include four cylinders each weighing four kg, two cylinders each weighing two kg, five pressure cookers each weighing 12 kg, steel containers weighing 10 kg, 44 pieces of tiffin bomb, 20 pieces of tin cutter and 20 pieces of hammer among others. Landmines and IEDs were also recovered from the spot. Police officials associated with the operation said that the area was being used for manufacturing illegal weapons and IEDs despite frequent raids launched by the security forces. The topography of the area which comes under the Dumaria block of the district makes the task of the security forces difficult, they revealed. In October last year, the security personnel had recovered 320 detonators and electric wire besides explosive in huge quantity during an operation in Langurahi and Pachrukhiya forests in Gaya district. The IEDs were meant for blowing up vehicles carrying security personnel during anti-Naxal operations in the district. Gaya, Aurangabad, Lakhisarai, Jamui and Munger are among the five worst Maoist-hit districts in the state.
Hyderabad : The schedule of certain trains from the city have been altered to facilitate track works between Ratangarh and Molisar on the Bikaner-Sadulapur section of North Western Railway. Train 2273 from Secunderabad to Hisar, commencing on January 28: Partially cancelled between Bikaner and Hisar. Train 07053 from Kacheguda to Bikaner, commencing January 18 and 25: Diverted via Jaipur, Phulera and Merta Road. Additional stoppages at Phulera, Makrana and Degana. Train 07054 Bikaner to Kacheguda, commencing January 21 and 28: Diverted via Merta Road, Phulera and Jaipur. Additional stoppages at Degana, Makrana and Phulera.
SCR announces two additional general class coaches to nine trains
Hyderabad: South Central Railway on Tuesday announced that two additional general class coaches would be added for nine more trains. The number of trains with additional general coaches would now reach 40. SCR, in a press release, said the augmentation of general coaches would be taken up on the following routes: Hyderabad-Mumbai CSMT; Tirupati-Hazrat Nizamuddin; Nanded-Amritsar; Hyderabad-Jaipur; Hyderabad-Visakhaptnam; Hyderabad-Tambaram; and Secunderabad-Hisar . SCR said that in July, during phase one, six pairs of trains (13 rakes) were augmented with 26 additional LHB general class coaches each. In phase two, during November-December, another 25 trains (40 rakes) were augmented with 80 additional general class coaches. With regard to the air conditioned coaches, the SCR said it was a temporary measure to suit the needs of passengers travelling in these trains.
People oppose replacing general class coaches with AC coaches
Hyderabad: The South Central Railway (SCR) is facing a backlash from passengers coming from economically weaker sections for replacing general class coaches with air-conditioned (AC) coaches to address rising demand for premium travel. The SCR has released details of temporary augmentation of two trains and replacement of nine trains to address passenger demand. K. Venkatesham, who regularly travels by train, said, Railways is reducing the number of general class coaches; there must be at least five general compartments in every train. It has to increase the coaches of general and sleeper compartments. S. Shekar Reddy, who travels to Tirupati regularly, said, If they remove the general coaches the problem will increase, with no alternatives people will enter the reserved coaches. Many passengers prefer general class due to its affordability, especially during festival seasons when buses and private vehicles become expensive or unavailable. Replacing general coaches with AC coaches raises costs, making travel unaffordable for economically weaker sections, said P. Sarika. A general class coach has a capacity of 82 to 100 passengers. If two general coaches are replaced by AC coaches, around 5,000 to 6,000 passengers will be affected for each train in a month. If a person travels from Hyderabad to Tirupati in general class. the ticket price will be around `455 and in 3rd AC the price will be up to `2,195. SCR officials, however, stated that the replacement is a temporary measure because of several reasons. We have noticed the waiting list demand is high and accordingly we are replacing some coaches to accommodate the demand. There is also a huge demand for second and third AC coaches, the fares will be applied according to the replaced coach. They added that each train will definitely have mandatory two general coaches. Temporary additions/replacements in January Additions 1. Train No. 17614 and 17613 Nanded - Panvel Express: Added one 3rd AC and one sleeper 2. Train No. 17630 and 17629 Nanded - Pune Express: Added One 3rd AC and one sleeper Replacements 1. Train No. 12702 and 12701 Hyderabad to Mumbai CSMT will replace two general second class coaches with two third AC coaches. 2. Train No. 12707 and 12708 Tirupati to H.Nizamuddin will replace two General Second Class coaches with two Sleeper coaches. 3. Train No. 12715 and 12716 Nanded to Amritsar will replace two General Second Class coaches with one Third AC and one Sleeper coach. 4. Train No. 12720 and 12719 Hyderabad to Jaipur will replace twp General Second Class coaches with two Third AC coaches . 5. Train No. 12728 and 12727 Hyderabad to Visakhapatnam will replace two General Second Class coaches with one Third AC and one Sleeper coach. 6. Train No. 12760 and 12759 Hyderabad to Tambaram will replace two General Second Class coaches with two Sleeper coaches. 7. Train No. 12793 and 12794 Tirupati to H. Nizamuddin, will replace two General Second Class coaches with two Sleeper coaches. 8. Train No. 22737 and 22738 Secunderabad to Hisar will replace two General Second Class coaches with one Second AC and one Sleeper coach.
Farmers call for Punjab bandh on December 30; protest garners state-wide support
CHANDIGARH: With farmers calling for Punjab Bandh on Monday, all shops across the state are expected to be closed, and road and rail services will be disrupted. Emergency services will remain operational. The farmers have called for a complete shutdown on December 30 from 7 am to 4 pm. Milk, fruits, and vegetables will not be available, as many organisations have extended their support to the protest. The offices and institutions of the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) will remain closed in support of the bandh. SGPC president Harjinder Singh Dhami has taken this decision in support of the farmers' struggle. Earlier, Dhami had also postponed the interim committee meeting of SGPC scheduled for December 30, to December 31. He said that the central and state governments should give up their stubborn attitude and accept the farmers' legitimate demands on a priority basis. The Kisan Wing of Congress has extended its support to the bandh. Congress MLA and president of Kisan Wing of the party Sukhpal Khaira posted on X, I extend full support to the Punjab Bandh-Bandh call by Kissan Organisations slated for tomorrow 30th December to press their legitimate demands. If the BJP government can write off 15 lakh crores debt of few hundred corporate houses why isnt it listening to the demands of crores & crores of farmers & farm labourers of India? On behalf of @INCIndia and @Kisan_Congress i extend full support to the Punjab Bandh-Bandh call by Kissan Organizations slated for tomorrow 30th December to press their legitimate demands. If the @BJP4India govt can write off 15 Lac Crores debt of few hundred corporate houses pic.twitter.com/VdDcLV6asj Sukhpal Singh Khaira (@SukhpalKhaira) December 29, 2024 The state roadways union also extended support to the bandh. State-run buses will be off the roads on Monday. Many traders associations have also given support to the bandh and will keep their commercial establishments closed. The decision to call for a 'Punjab bandh' was taken last week by both the Samyukta Kisan Morcha (non-political) and Kisan Mazdoor Morcha which have been camping at Shambhu and Khanauri border points between Punjab and Haryana since February 13 after their march to Delhi was stopped by security forces. Farmers suspend Delhi march for the day as 17 injured after Haryana cops fire tear gas Kisan Mazdoor Morcha convener Sarwan Singh Pandher claimed that the traders, transporters, employees unions, toll plaza workers, labour, ex-servicemen, sarpanches, teachers' unions, social and other bodies, and some other sections have supported the bandh. The emergency services will be allowed as ambulances will be given way; and also to people going to the airport to catch international flights, candidates going to give interviews, marriages processions or anyone in a dire emergency, he said. The protesters have also announced plans to hold a Kisan Mahapanchayat at the Khanauri protest site on January 4. With Dallewal's indefinite hunger strike entering its 34th day today farmer leaders at Khanauri said they have been following the Gandhian way to continue their protest and it is up to the government to decide whether it wants to use force to evict their senior leader . Their statement comes amid the Supreme Court's strong criticism of the Punjab government for not shifting Dallewal to a hospital. The farmers have been protesting at the Punjab-Haryana border to press the Centre for several demands, including a legal guarantee for a minimum support price (MSP) for crops. Farmer leader Abhimanyu Kohar said, We want to make it clear that the union government right from day one, has been trying to defame and suppress our agitation. as a narrative is being built that farmers are stubborn. Whereas it is the Centre that is adopting such an attitude, not listening to us and not paying any attention to farmers' demands. Our agitations have proven that, despite enduring so much due to the government's oppression, we have continued to protest in a Gandhian manner. Now, it is up to the government and constitutional bodies to decide whether they want to use force to evict Dallewal, Kohar said and added that the farmers wanted to make it clear that whatever situation arises, the responsibility will lie with the Centre and constitutional bodies. We also want to appeal to the people of the country that the agitation seeking a guarantee for MSP has reached a decisive stage. We are on the threshold of victory. We must take a strong stand. Dallewal has put his life at stake, he added. Kohar said it was up to the people of the country to decide whether to stay at home or be present in large numbers at the Khanauri Morcha in support of Dallewal. He also said Dallewal has made it clear that he is ready to sacrifice his life for the sake of farmers in this country. Meanwhile, a Khap maha panchayat which was held at Baas village in Hisar of Haryana has extended support to the ongoing farmers stir. The resolutions made at this gathering could influence the future of the protests, as various issues including Dallewal's fast-upto-death were discussed. Farmer leaders had called on Haryana's khap panchayats to back their cause and advocate for the fulfilment of their long-standing demands.
