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CAQM issues show cause notice to six thermal power plants near Delhi-NCR over biomass co-firing
NEW DELHI: The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) in the NCR and adjoining areas has issued Show Cause Notices to six coal-based Thermal Power Plants (TPPs) located within a 300 km radius of Delhi. These notices were issued due to non-compliance with the mandatory provisions regarding the co-firing of pellets or briquettes made from crop residue, as specified under the Environment (Utilisation of Crop Residue by Thermal Power Plants) Rules, 2023. The affected power plants include two in Punjab, three in Haryana, and one in Uttar Pradesh. The plants in Punjab are Talwandi Sabo Power Limited (TSPL Vedanta) in Mansa and PSPCL Guru Hargobind Thermal Power Plant in Lehra Mohabbat. In Haryana, the plants are Panipat Thermal Power Station (PTPS) in Panipat, Deenbandhu Chhotu Ram Thermal Power Station (DCRTPS) in Yamunanagar, and Rajiv Gandhi Thermal Power Plant (RGTPP) in Hisar. The plant in Uttar Pradesh is Harduaganj Thermal Power Station, operated by UPRVUNL. This action follows a detailed review of compliance for FY 2024-25, based on data provided by the Ministry of Power, Government of India. The rules require all coal-based TPPs to utilize a minimum of 5% biomass pellets or briquettes made from crop residue along with coal, with a minimum threshold of over 3% co-firing prescribed for FY 2024-25 to avoid penalties in the form of Environmental Compensation (EC). These statutory provisions were introduced to promote the management of paddy straw, reduce incidents of stubble burning, and mitigate air pollution in the NCR and neighboring areas. However, the compliance status of the following TPPs has been found unsatisfactory during FY 2024-25, with biomass co-firing levels well below the mandated thresholds. As a result, Show Cause Notices proposing the imposition of EC have been issued to the concerned plants. The total Environmental Compensation proposed for these six TPPs amounts to approximately Rs 61.85 Crore. Recognising a significant lag in compliance and in light of directions from the Supreme Court, the Commission issued notices in early 2024 to four TPPs that had consistently poor performance since the monitoring began. The Commission also expressed concerns to seven additional TPPs and all relevant authorities for immediate corrective actions. A committee was established to review representations from non-compliant TPPs (if any) for the period of FY 2024-25. The concerned TPPs have been directed to submit their written explanations within 15 days of receiving the Show Cause Notices. Failure to do so will result in further actions in accordance with the provisions of the Commission for Air Quality Management in the National Capital Region and Adjacent Areas Act, 2021, including actions under Section 14 of the Act.
NCRTC has invited tenders for shifting and replacing low-tension power lines, cables, and streetlights along the Kashmere Gate to Bhalaswa route. This development is expected to bring relief to commuters and boost connectivity between Delhi and industrial towns in Haryana.
ED seizes Rs 4.62 crore, silver and gold in dunki money laundering probe
The searches were conducted on Thursday across more than a dozen locations in Delhi, Punjab (Jalandhar), and Haryana (Panipat). From the premises of a Delhi-based travel agent, authorities recovered cash, silver, and gold bullion valued at a total of Rs 19.13 crore
Workshop - 2 of the EU Green Deal Awareness Series Concludes Successfully in Panipat
The second workshop under the EU Green Deal Awareness Series , organised as part of the SWITCH-Asia Green Threads Project, concluded successfully at Days Hotel, Panipat. The session brought together MSMEs from Panipat and Amroha for an in-depth understanding of evolving European Union sustainability expectations and their implications for Indias textile and home furnishing exporters. The workshop is jointly executed by the Foundation for MSME Clusters (FMC), Global Fashion Agenda (GFA), Friedrich-Naumann-Foundation, SIDBI, and Copenhagen Business School. Foundation for MSME Clusters Panipat Team The event opened with remarks from Mr. Mukesh Gulati, Executive Director, FMC , who emphasised the urgency for MSMEs to align with global sustainability norms. Sustainable fashion presents a Rs. 9-lakh-crore opportunity in the coming years, an opportunity that Panipat can easily tap into because of its immense potential. To build a collaborative ecosystem, we need strong linkages, partnerships, and cooperation from Panipats MSMEs so we can support each other. These projects are essential because sustainable fashion will soon become the norm. Understanding the CO emissions of each garment and establishing traceability mechanisms will be critical. The European Unions Green Deal is both a challenge and a tremendous opportunity. Our early preparedness will determine how strongly our MSMEs can compete in global markets. Ms. Harshitha Venati, Senior Impact Programme Manager, (GFA) provided a recap of Workshop #1, covering Ecodesign for Sustainable Products Regulation (ESPR) and Digital Product Passports (DPPs). She then followed with an insightful presentation on the EU Waste Shipment Regulation (WSR) and its potential implications for Indias textile exporters. Panipat has to ensure that there is traceability and visibility in their business processes and procurement to build trust with their EU partners, she noted. Mr. Bishesh Rajput (FMC) facilitated the workshop activity and led an open discussion where MSMEs expressed interest in more hands-on, cluster-specific sessions and smaller, focused group workshops. Rajat Batra, Chief Executive Officer of Stenum Asia, delivered an insightful introduction to Resource Efficiency Solutions for Sustainable Production, highlighting practical approaches that MSMEs can adopt to enhance environmental performance and operational efficiency. The formal closing remarks were delivered by Mr. Vinod Dhamija, President, Haryana Chamber of Commerce & Industries, Panipat , who highlighted the importance of proactive compliance. Emerging EU regulations are reshaping global trade. Panipats MSMEs must prepare collectively to safeguard and strengthen their export competitiveness, by following the compliance and the chemical which is going banned is good for us and our future generation too, he stated. Dignitaries who attended the workshop included: Mr. Anil Mittal, Secretary, Haryana Carpet Manufacturers Association Parvinder kadiyan, Chairman, GATS Association Their presence underscored the shared commitment of industry leaders to guiding MSMEs through sustainability-driven market transitions. The event concluded with a vote of thanks by Mr. Abhishek Naga (FMC), DGM, FMC who appreciated the active participation and reaffirmed FMCs commitment to supporting the textile ecosystem on its sustainability and compliance journey. The Green Threads Project, supported by the EU SWITCH-Asia Programme, aims to accelerate the transition of Indias textile and apparel sector toward more sustainable, circular, and resource-efficient production practices. As global markets - especially the European Union - tighten sustainability regulations, MSMEs face rising pressure to demonstrate compliance, transparency, and environmental responsibility across their supply chains. The project focuses on capacity building, policy dialogue, awareness creation, and technical support for MSMEs to help them: Understand upcoming EU regulations such as ESPR, DPPs, and WSR Improve circularity practices, waste management, and product design Strengthen competitiveness in global markets Build long-term resilience through sustainable business models The Foundation for MSME Clusters (FMC) is implementing the project in India to ensure that MSME clusters - especially in textile hubs like Panipat and Amroha - are not left behind in the global shift toward greener manufacturing. FMCs involvement reflects its long-standing commitment to helping MSMEs adopt better practices, access new opportunities, and remain globally competitive. About FMC Foundation for MSME Clusters (FMC), a leading non-governmental, not-for-profit public charitable trust, established in India in 2005. FMC has made remarkable strides in fostering sustainable livelihoods and environmental progress through our innovative cluster development approach. Our work spans more than 300 MSME clusters, supporting over 100,000 artisanal and industrial units, ranging from household operations to medium-sized production entities. As an empanelled Nodal Agency with the Ministries of MSMEs and Rural Development, FMC extends support to prominent schemes like SFURTI, and is also providing technical, research, and evaluation support to various organizations such as SIDBI & KVIC. FMC has implemented multiple projects on environment and livelihoods with support from agencies like NABARD, UNIDO, UNDP, EU, ADB, and major corporates such as Cisco, Mahindra Finance, HCL, Yes Bank, and Hindalco. For more information, please visit website fmc.org.in .
LIC Janipur office marks first anniversary of Bima Sakhi Scheme
Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Dec 9: The LIC of India Satellite Office in Janipur celebrated the first anniversary of the Bima Sakhi Scheme here today. The scheme, launched last year by the Prime Minister Narendra Modi from Panipat, aims to strengthen LICs outreach and empower women through financial inclusion. The event was attended by Manager (Sales) RK Nagar, Branch Manager Abhishek Meena, Development Officers, CLIA representatives and LIC agents. A cake-cutting ceremony was held to mark one year of the schemes [] The post LIC Janipur office marks first anniversary of Bima Sakhi Scheme appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Gujarat Police arrest a couple who murdered their spouses, met inside jail, married, had a child, and lived in hiding for six years after fleeing on parole and furlough. Call data led to their capture in Panipat.
Panipat Police arrest a 32-year-old woman who confessed to killing four children three nieces and her own son by drowning them. Her hatred for beautiful girls drove the murders. One mistake at a wedding finally exposed her crimes.
'Beauty Complex' Turned Panipat's Poonam Into A Murderer. She Killed 4 Children In 2 Years
On Monday, Poonam allegedly drowned the six-year-old, who was dressed for a family function, in a tub of water.
Haryana killer mom: A woman in Haryana's Panipat has been arrested for killing four children, including her own son, police said. Poonam had a disturbing pattern of targetting children she thought were etter looking than her own. At a wedding, she killed her six-year-old niece Vidhi by drowning her in a bath tub and later confessed to the crime when caught.
Haryana: Woman arrested for allegedly killing four children, including own son, out of 'jealousy'
The police on Wednesday arrested a middle-aged woman for allegedly murdering four children, including three girls and her own son in Haryana's Panipat. According to multiple media reports citing the police, the woman allegedly murdered the girls, including her niece, out of jealousy as she thought the children were prettier than her. The woman, identified as Poonam, also killed her son to avoid suspicion of killing the girls. The investigation into the killings began after the recent death of Poonam's niece, six-year-old Vidhi, who lived in Sonipat and had come to Naultha village in Panipat's Israna area to attend a relative's wedding with her family. Vidhi was found dead with her head submerged in a water tub and her feet on the ground in the storeroom of her relative's house. Even though the death was earlier presumed to be accidental, circumstances raised some suspicions. Vidhi's father later lodged a police complaint, alleging that the child was murdered, leading to the probe. During questioning, Poonam confessed to killing three more children, including her son. According to police, Poonam had a pattern of killing children by drowning them. She targeted young, pretty girls as her motive was driven by jealousy and resentment and an obsession with looking beautiful. According to police, in August this year, Poonam murdered a girl in Siwah village because she believed the child looked prettier than her. In 2023, Poonam had killed her sister-in-law's daughter. The same year, she drowned her son just to avoid suspicion.
Woman Who Killed Son Murders 6-Year-Old Girl For Looking 'Prettier' Than Her
A woman has been arrested for murdering her 6-year-old niece in Haryana's Panipat, police said on Wednesday. The reason: she did not want anyone to look more beautiful than her.
Video: GRP constable saves woman from under moving train at Panipat
Chandigarh: A Government Railway Police constable, showing presence of mind, saved the life of a woman passenger at the Panipat railway station after she slipped while trying to board a moving train. As the train, headed from Kurukshetra to Delhi, arrived at Platform No 1, passengers began boarding and alighting. During this time, a woman Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
A New Generation of Digital Marketers Steering India's Rapidly Evolving Landscape
Indias digital marketing environment is undergoing rapid change. Algorithmic shifts, rising media costs, and evolving audience behaviour are prompting brands to reconsider traditional approaches. In a landscape where authentic, straightforward communication often performs better than heavily produced content, adaptability has become essential. Vipluv Rana and Neha Rana Co-founders 28 DigiTech Operating within this shift is 28 DigiTech , a young agency established six months ago by Neha Rana and Vipluv Rana , professionals with nearly 15 years of experience in digital strategy and communication. The agency was formed with the intention of responding to the changing expectations of digital audiences and the increasing need for agile content and campaign design. In a short period, 28 DigiTech has worked with a number of institutions in Indias higher education sector, a category that places significant emphasis on credibility and targeted communication. Its growing client list includes: KIIT University, IIT Bombay Educational Outreach, Somaiya Vidyavihar University, Krea University, SPJIMR, ISBR, Jindal Global University, Panipat Institute of Engineering & Technology (PIET), Kalinga Institute of Social Sciences (KISS), Maxme, Q&I Today (from the promoters of India Today Group) to name a few. The agency has also crossed a turnover of 1 crore within six months, reflecting steady demand for strategic digital solutions rooted in audience understanding. Commenting on todays digital environment, Co-founder Neha Rana states, The old digital formula doesnt work anymore. You cant outspend your way to attention. You have to out-think it. The audience is smarter, faster, and more instinctive than ever so our content has to be, too. Adding to this, Co-founder Vipluv Rana explains , We come from the same world our audience lives in. We know what makes them scroll, skip, and stop because were part of that tribe . Our goal is to make an impact and deliver measurable results to our clients. The founders further state the approach that defines 28 DigiTech: Raw Over Refined: A focus on communication that prioritises authenticity and real-world relevance. Agile, Not Aged: A structure designed for rapid decision-making, enabling campaigns to adapt quickly to changing platform and audience dynamics. Data-Led Creativity: Creative development grounded in insights, performance tracking, and measurable results Education at the Core: A strong and growing presence in the higher education sector, driving measurable outcomes. Results, Not Rhetoric: Campaigns built around effectiveness, relevance, and sustained impact delivering desired reach and ROI As India's digital ecosystem expands, organisations are increasingly looking for partners who combine strategic clarity with an understanding of evolving user behaviour. Agencies that can respond quickly to shifts in the digital environment are becoming more relevant to brands seeking sustained visibility and engagement. Through its early work, 28 DigiTech echoes the industrys gradual shift toward more adaptive, insight-driven digital communication.The agencys trajectory highlights the growing importance of responsiveness and audience understanding in shaping contemporary marketing outcomes.
NTTM develops scientific model for recycling retired national flags: Textiles Ministry
NEW DELHI, Nov 27: A scientific model has been developed under the National Technical Textiles Mission (NTTM) for the recycling of retired national flags, the textiles ministry has said in a statement. The model will be showcased at an event in Panipat on November 28. For the first time in India, a structured and scientifically sound process has been introduced for the dignified recycling of retired national flags, it said. Implemented by an industry partner, the project ensures that [] The post NTTM develops scientific model for recycling retired national flags: Textiles Ministry appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Haryana man, three others arrested for killing sister over inter-caste marriage
CHANDIGARH: Police in Haryana on Thursday arrested a man and three of his associates for allegedly murdering his 23-year-old sister over inter-caste marraige, and for reportedly planning to kill her husband next. The arrests were made after an encounter on the Ladhot-Bohar road in Rohtak. The victim, 23-year-old woman Sapna, was allegedly shot dead by her brother and his friends at her in-laws house at Kahni village in Rohtak on Wednesday night. Her brother-in-law, Sahil, sustained bullet injuries during the attack and is undergoing treatment at the PGIMS at Rohtak. Sapna had married Suraj, an auto driver, about three and a half years ago against their families wishes. The couple, who have a daughter, knew each other since school. The couple had initially moved away from their native Kahani village but had returned recently. On Wednesday night around 9.40 pm, Sapna's brother Sanju, accompanied by three friends, allegedly stormed into Sapnas house and opened fire.Sapna died on the spot, while Surajs brother Sahil sustained injuries. Suraj was not at home at the time of the attack. Haryana DGP, OP Singh, said that around midnight, the police received information that the accused was preparing to target Suraj next and could be intercepted on Ladot-Bohar Road. Acting swiftly on the input, a naka was established on LadotBohar Road and the accused were subsequently cornered by the police team. On being surrounded, the accused started firing. Then in self defense, the police retaliated. During the exchange of firing between police and criminals, all four accused sustained bullet injuries. They were immediately shifted to PGIMS Rohtak for treatment, he said. The accused have been identified as Sanju, Rahul -- both from Kahni village in Rohtak -- and Ankit alias Baba and Gaurav of Rukhi village in Sonepat district. Four pistols, ten live cartridges, two magazines and a motorcycle were recovered from their possession. The tragic incident took place after a period of relative calm in the agrarian state which remains bound to age-old traditions that still deny many adults the freedom to choose their partners. On June 19 last year, 20-year-old Komal, belonging to Gujjar Community was allegedly shot dead by her teenage brother in Jind who was angry over her getting married to a SC youth of Kaithal. On June 3, 2024, a 27-year-old Saravjeet Kaur of Nejadela Kalan village in Sirsa district was killed by her brother and father who were annoyed with her love affair with Karan from a nearby village. The couple was from the same caste. The parents did not agree with her love and strangled her and made a fake story of heart attack. On June 24 last year , Tejbir of Badala village and Meena of Sultanpur village was shot dead in Hansi town by two unidentified men in a suspected case of honour killing. On June 24, 2021, Vinay and his wife Kiran Dahiya of Gopalpura village in Sonipat, were shot by the girl's family as it was against their decision to marry in the same gotra. The couple had married in August 2020 and had been living in hiding in a Delhi village due to severe threat from the girl's family for a year. Even their plea before the Punjab and Haryana High Court for security could not save their life. On January 2, 2021, Neeraj was murdered allegedly by his brother-in-law and his accomplice in Panipat. He had married Komal in November 2020 who lived near his house. However, the girl's family did not agree to the alliance because the boy was from a different caste.
As per the nationwide study, Indias actual Ready for Life Index (RLI) stands at a modest 59, compared to a high perceived readiness of 85, indicating a wide gap of 26 points in financial readiness across Indias urban population Retirement planning emerges as Indias biggest gap area, with two in three individuals, expecting family support after retirement, despite planning Two out of five individuals have an emergency fund to last over four months; two out of five health insurance owners hold a health cover below INR 5 lakh The findings also highlight Indias need for long-term protection and financial literacy across income groups and cities HDFC Lif e has launched Ready for Life - its latest research-based study. This one-of-its-kind report makes an effort to quantify the Financial Readiness Gap the difference between perceived and actual financial preparedness of individuals. Vineet Arora, Executive Director & Chief Business Officer, HDFC Life The Index shows a 26-point gap, which implies that there is a big difference in terms of actual readiness of an individual in comparison to how ready they think they are largely due the lack of action to convert financial planning from merely a plan into reality. In other words, the index reveals that individuals are not well-prepared to handle uncertainties of life across different financial aspects. About the Study The Ready for Life Index 2025 is a proprietary research initiative by HDFC Life. This research has been conducted by Ipsos India, an independent market research company. Based on 1,836 face-to-face interviews with working men and women aged between 2555 years across Metros, Tier 2, and Tier 3 cities*, the study evaluates Indias life readiness across four key pillars Financial Planning, Emergency Preparedness, Health & Well-being, and Retirement Strategy. The index aims to highlight the gap between perception and actual preparedness, encouraging a shift from short-term savings to structured, long-term financial planning. Balancing Confidence and Preparedness Indias Retirement Reality The Ready for Life Index 2025 evaluates India's overall preparedness across life pillars of high importance and finds that though awareness and optimism are visible, preparedness is still uneven. While consumers hold clear ideal retirement goals, their financial actions and product choices suggest that these goals may be difficult to reach. Of all the pillars, retirement preparedness is the weakest with a 37-point gap between confidence and level of action. Close to half of urban Indians have yet to begin saving for retirement, and two out of every three anticipate support from family after retirement. Most respondents who have started planning for retirement, are of the opinion that a corpus of INR 50 lakhs INR 1 crore would last about 17 years, which could prove to be a gross underestimation considering inflation and lifestyle costs. These results stress on the need for India to move from family-supported financial security to independent retirement planning and also on the need for awareness on financial planning Financial Planning and Protection Traditional Strength, Modern Gaps While Indian customers are inclined towards conventional savings instruments like endowment insurance plans, fixed deposits, and gold, protection and growth-oriented products like term insurance, market linked products, and retirement products are underutilised. Term insurance, which is one of the most cost-effective protection instruments, has modest ownership owing to limited product understanding, myths around claim settlement, and belief that premiums offer no return if the policy holder outlives the policy term. While financial discipline is visible to an extent, the savings space remains dominated by traditional products and short-term goals. The real opportunity lies in encouraging systematic, long-term investing to build sustainable wealth and reduce over-reliance on low-growth instruments. On a positive note, there is increasing awareness about health and wellness. Four in five survey participants actively engage in physical activities to maintain their overall physical and mental well-being. Similarly, two out of three go for yearly health check-ups. But the gap in coverage continues to exist; 2 in 5 respondents have health insurance cover of less than INR 5 lakh. Further, in terms of emergency funds, 2 in 5 individuals possess sufficient savings to meet home expenses for more than four months. Regional and Tier-wise Insights The study reveals notable regional variations in financial readiness across India: North India shows the widest readiness gap of 30 points, mainly due to weaker emergency and retirement planning East India records the most realistic self-assessment with a gap of 20 points, and also displays a traditional and disciplined savings approach South India leads in maturity towards financial and health planning West India demonstrates a more diversified investment outlook but lower focus on long-term planning Tier 3 cities display the lowest preparedness and widest confidence gaps, highlighting the need for deeper financial literacy efforts beyond metros here for the report Vineet Arora Executive Director & Chief Business Officer, HDFC Life , shared his thoughts on the study, The Ready for Life Index reflects Indias growing awareness and optimism about financial planning but also reminds us that true readiness is built through consistent planning and protection. Confidence alone is not enough preparedness needs structure and action ." " The findings indicate that retirement remains Indias biggest financial blind spot. Despite higher awareness, the actual action towards long-term security is limited. Through this study, we aim to encourage meaningful conversations around preparedness and protection as essential pillars of financial wellness . * List of cities - Delhi, Chennai, Mumbai, Kolkata, Lucknow, Jodhpur, Kochi, Vishakhapatnam, Vadodara, Nagpur, Bhubaneshwar, Patna, Muzaffarnagar, Panipat, Thanjavur, Machilipatnam, Anand, Dhule, Bardhaman, Ganjam Disclaimer HDFC Life Insurance Co. Ltd. (HDFC Life) (i) makes no express or implied representations, warranties or covenants as to the accuracy and/or completeness of the information, data, opinions, commentary, analysis and/or any direct or indirect recommendations included in the Ready for Life Index Study conducted by Ipsos India Pvt. Ltd. (Study), and (ii) disclaims any and all damages, costs and liabilities whatsoever to the recipient or reader and or its representatives (tangible or intangible, including, but not limited to loss of business opportunity, loss of profit, loss of market share or loss of goodwill) for any reliance or use made by the recipient or reader and its representatives on the Study, or any errors therein or omissions therefrom. The report is intended for informational purposes only, and does not constitute financial, investment, legal, taxation, or professional advice by HDFC Life. The recipient or reader and its representatives should not rely solely on this content for making financial decisions, and are advised to seek qualified professional guidance tailored to their personal circumstances. Ipsos India Pvt. Ltd. and the authors disclaim any liability for any direct or indirect losses arising from the use of this report or its content. This report does not constitute an offer, solicitation, or recommendation to buy or sell any financial instrument or product.
Bihar poll push: Haryana BJP rallies migrant workers to vote back home
CHANDIGARH: The Haryana unit of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has devised a multi-pronged strategy to assist the migrant population from Bihar living in Haryana to return home and cast their votes in the forthcoming polls. Bihar goes to polls in two phases on Nov 6 and 11. Special buses have been arranged to ferry these voters back to Bihar, and factory owners have been requested to grant paid leave to migrant workers. As the NDA and the Mahagathbandhan engage in a tough contest, the saffron party hopes its efforts will impress natives of Bihar residing in Haryana and help sway the vote. This move is part of the BJPs broader strategy to maximize voter turnout in the Bihar elections. According to party sources, the initiative also aims to ensure that migrant workers exercise their right to vote and encourage others to do the same, regardless of their political preferences. Sources said the party has identified a significant population of migrants from Bihar living across 12 districts of Haryana. The majority of these voters are industrial labourers employed in factories across the National Capital Region (NCR) including Gurugram, Faridabad, Rewari, Jhajjar, Rohtak, Sonipat, Kurukshetra, Panipat, Hisar, Ambala, Yamunanagar, and Karnal. The saffron party has contacted over one lakh voters residing in Haryana, while the total number of migrants from Bihar with votes registered back home is estimated to be between 2.5 and 3 lakh. The strategy aims to ensure that these registered Bihar voters are present at their respective polling booths on election day. The partys outreach focuses on promoting the BJP governments message of good governance, drawing a clear contrast with the past, said a party leader. Sources added that the BJP had initiated this strategy months earlier, during Bihar Diwas celebrations in March, with an eye on the upcoming Bihar elections in November. The outreach, designed to strengthen emotional and social bonds, culminated during Chhath Puja festivities, which were attended by Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini. Recently, the BJP organized a series of meetings including one chaired by CM Nayab Singh Saini to finalize the election strategy. Senior leaders were assigned specific responsibilities to handle the logistical arrangements for migrant voters, ensuring their presence in Bihar on polling day. To facilitate this, the party is dispatching Vistarakas (campaign workers) from Haryana to Bihar for voter mobilization and engagement. Haryana BJP leaders are also actively reaching out to factory owners, urging them to grant paid leave to Bihari migrant workers to remove a major obstacle to their participation in the assembly polls, sources said.
54 Haryana youth deported from US after travelling via dunki route
CHANDIGARH: About ten months after over 300 illegal immigrants were deported from the United States on three military flights, another 54 youth from Haryana who travelled to America via the dunki route have now been sent back to India. Of the 54 who landed at the Indira Gandhi International Airport on Saturday evening, 16 are from Karnal, 14 from Kaithal, five each from Ambala and Kurukshetra, four from Yamunanagar, three from Jind, two from Sonepat, and one each from Rohtak, Panipat, Fatehabad, and Panchkula, sources said. The home district of one deportee is yet to be confirmed. Sources said that after the youth arrived in Delhi, police teams from their respective districts brought them back by bus and handed them over to their families following proper documentation and verification. The illegal immigrants had travelled to the US in search of work but were detained by authorities and later deported. A police official said that the deported youth have so far not filed any complaints against any agents. One of the youth from Karnal had a criminal case registered against him regarding electricity theft, which is under trial, and he was out on bail, he said. The official added that an Excise Act case had earlier been registered against one of the youth from Kaithal, who had skipped a court hearing and will now be produced before the court. Another youth from Sonepat had previously faced an Arms Act case. One of the deported youth, Naresh Kumar from Kaithal, said he spent Rs 57 lakh to reach the United States, having sold his farmland for Rs 42 lakh. His brother contributed Rs 6.5 lakh after selling his own land, while he borrowed Rs 6 lakh as a loan and another Rs 2.5 lakh from a relative. He was later caught and spent the past fourteen months in a detention centre in the US. Continuing his account, Kumar said he travelled to the US via the dunki route through Panama, a journey that took about two months. He initially paid Rs 42 lakh to the travel agent, followed by Rs 6 lakh upon reaching Guatemala, another Rs 6 lakh in Mexico, and the remaining amount after crossing the US border. Three youth, identified as Ajay from Bhairon Khera, Laabjot Singh from Nimnabad, and Naveen from Pillukhera in Jind, were also handed over to their families. Laabjot Singh from Jind said he reached the US last year after his family sold 1.5 acres of their three-acre landholding to pay Rs 50 lakh to the travel agent. After travelling through tough terrain and jungles, I reached there but was caught as I crossed the border and had been languishing in the detention centre for 11 months before being sent back, he said. Ankur Singh from Karnal said he reached the US in October 2022 after paying Rs 29 lakh, a journey that took four months. He added that in February this year, he was arrested in Georgia while working at a liquor store and later sent to a detention camp. Jind Superintendent of Police Kuldeep Singh warned that travelling abroad through illegal means endangers ones life. Before applying for a visa, one should thoroughly verify the agent or organisation and never fall for false promises made by unknown people. Going abroad illegally is not only a waste of money but also sends a negative message to society, he said. Confirming that 14 youth have been deported by the US and the police are verifying their background, Superintendent of Police of Kaithal, Upasana, said, All have been handed over to their family members. In July this year, External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal had said that the US had deported a total of 1,563 Indian nationals since January. Union Minister of Power and former Haryana Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar reiterated that youth travelling abroad through the dunki route is harmful to them and their families. We want youth to get jobs and go abroad through legal means. The Haryana government has set up a department for this purpose, which facilitates the process, and many youth have already been placed abroad through it. More requisitions for jobs abroad have also come in. During my visit to Dubai, I had meetings in this regard, he said.
Microplastic pollution in Panipat | Green Humour by Rohan Chakravarty
Neeraj Chopra honoured with Lieutenant Colonel rank in Indian Army
NEW DELHI: India's maiden athletics Olympic gold medalist Neeraj Chopra on Monday picked up the honorary rank of Lieutenant Colonel in the Indian Army. The pipping ceremony took place in South Block, here as Defence Minister Rajnath Singh formally conferred the honorary rank of Lieutenant Colonel in the Territorial Army upon star javelin thrower and two-time Olympic medalist Neeraj Chopra. Interacting with Lt Col (Hony) Neeraj Chopra and his family members, the Defence Minister described him as an epitome of perseverance, patriotism and the Indian spirit of striving for excellence. Lt Col (Hony) Neeraj Chopra embodies the highest ideals of discipline, dedication and national pride, serving as an inspiration to generations within the sporting fraternity and the Armed Forces alike, said Rajnath Singh. Chief of the Army Staff General Upendra Dwivedi and other senior officials of the Indian Army and Territorial Army were present on the occasion. Enrolled in the Indian Army in 2016, Lt Col (Hony) Neeraj Chopra has served with The Rajputana Rifles of the Indian Army. Born on 24 December 1997 in Khandra village, Panipat district, Haryana, he has brought immense pride to the Nation and the Armed Forces through his remarkable accomplishments in international athletics. The star javelin thrower created history by becoming the first Indian athlete to win an Olympic Gold Medal in track and field at the Tokyo Olympics in 2020. He continued his stellar performance by winning a Silver Medal at the Paris Olympics in 2024 and a Gold Medal at the World Athletics Championships in 2023. He has also secured multiple Gold Medals at the Asian Games, Commonwealth Games, and Diamond League events. His personal best throw of 90.23 metres (2025) stands as a milestone in Indian sporting history. In recognition of his outstanding achievements and exemplary service to the nation, Lt Col (Hony) Neeraj Chopra was granted an Honorary commission in the Territorial Army by President Smt Droupadi Murmu on April 16, 2025. Earlier, he was conferred with the Padma Shri, Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award, Arjuna Award, Param Vishisht Seva Medal and Vishisht Seva Medal. The Indian Armed Forces have been conferring honorary ranks upon outstanding personalities from the different fields, including sports, cinema and politics. Olympic Gold medalist Abhinav Bindra also serves as an honorary Lt Col. Cricketers Kapil Dev and MS Dhoni are also Lt Colonels in the Territorial Army. The TA Members serve for a limited period in a year. As per its website, the Territorial Army is a part of Regular Army and its present role is to relieve the Regular Army from static duties and assist Civil Administration in dealing with natural calamities and maintenance of essential services in situations where life of the communities is affected or the security of the Country is threatened and to provide units for Regular Army as and when required.
CHANDIGARH: Nine Japanese companies have expressed interest in investing approximately Rs 5,000 crore in Haryana and have signed Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) to that effect. These investments are expected to generate employment opportunities for around 15,000 youth in the state, said Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini. He added that Gurugram has evolved into a global hub for IT and startups, and as part of the Global City Project, a 1,000-acre township is being developed in the millennium city. Saini made these remarks while addressing a gathering at the ''Jan Vishwas-Jan Vikas'' state-level event in Panchkula, on the occasion of the completion of one year of the third term of the BJP government in Haryana. He said that industrialists and companies from Haryana have expanded their reach by visiting African countries such as Tanzania, Kenya, and Rwanda, where they have even established industrial units. Recently, a delegation of 13 progressive farmers, led by the Agriculture Minister, visited Kenya to explore opportunities in agriculture and develop a roadmap for exporting floriculture products to international markets. Saini emphasised that, as a result of the government's proactive incentive schemes, Haryana has emerged as a preferred destination for both domestic and international investors. Under the Haryana Startup Policy 2022, the state now hosts over 9,500 startups, including 19 unicorn companies. In addition, more than 250 Fortune 500 companies have established a presence in Haryana. Gurugram has evolved into a global hub for IT and startups, further strengthening the states innovation ecosystem. As part of the Global City Project, a 1,000-acre township is being developed in Gurugram. Beyond this, the state is also building a logistics hub in Narnaul, a manufacturing cluster in Hisar, and an electronics park in Sohna, positioning Haryana as a leader in infrastructure-led industrial development. He said that twenty-one new national highways have been declared to connect every district, and work on 13 of them has already been completed. A Regional Road Upgradation Project has been launched to enhance road connectivity. Under this initiative, 4,227 roads spanning 9,410 kilometres are being repaired and upgraded at a cost of Rs 4,827 crore in the current financial year. Saini stated that industry is the backbone of the economy, and to accelerate industrial growth, the state has developed a robust ecosystem promoting Ease of Doing Business. As a result of various incentive schemes, 12,20,872 micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) have been registered in the state over the past 11 years, attracting investments worth Rs 28,377.59 crore. He highlighted that Maruti Suzuki's largest manufacturing plant is set to open at IMT Kharkhoda, with an investment of Rs 18,000 crore, expected to create 10,000 jobs. In addition, Suzukis motorcycle plant is also being established at the same location, involving an investment of Rs 1,466 crore, which will provide employment to 2,000 youth. Furthermore, the Uno Minda Group is setting up an alloy wheel plant in the region, with an investment of Rs 2,000 crore, projected to generate employment for 2,500 youth. Saini said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched the Bima Sakhi Yojana from Panipat to empower women. Under this scheme, 9,656 women have become Bima Sakhis. Inspired by its success, the state government has introduced the Lado Sakhi scheme. A provision has been made to provide an incentive of Rs 1,000 to Lado Sakhis who care for pregnant women during delivery and after the birth of a daughter. He said that the Scheduled Castes, who had long been deprived of their rightful opportunities, are now being empowered through increased participation in government jobs, Panchayat, and local body elections. He added that the Backward Class-B community has been granted reservation in Panchayati Raj institutions and urban local bodies, including 5 per cent reservation for the post of Sarpanch and proportional representation based on their population for other posts. He further said that the government has granted land rights to the Prajapati community in 1,700 villages to support their traditional pottery business. Now, there will be no hurdles in their livelihood. We have taken steps to restore the dignity and respect of the Prajapati community, he said. Speaking about renewable energy initiatives, the Chief Minister said that under the PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana, the state aims to install free rooftop solar systems of up to 2 kilowatts by 31 March 2027. So far, 37,825 solar systems have been installed. He added that citizens opting for 3-kilowatt systems are eligible for an additional subsidy of Rs 18,000 for the third kilowatt. Over the past 11 years, 1,61,837 solar pumps have been installed, including 33,553 in the last year alone.
The project is expected to benefit approximately 1 lakh commuters by providing a safe, comfortable, and efficient travel option. Moreover, it will help alleviate traffic congestion on the Delhi-Ambala Highway (NH-44).
Ravan Dahan, Shastra Puja time 2025: Dussehra 2025 is being celebrated on October 2. Vijayadashami marks Lord Rama's victory over Ravana when devotees will worship Lord Shri Ram and Goddess Durga. Shastra Puja also takes place on this day. Check city-wise Ravan Dahan timings here.
Road crash in UP leaves six dead
MUZAFFARNAGAR: An SUV rammed into a stationary truck here on Wednesday, leaving six persons dead and another seriously injured, police said. The accident took place near a roadside eatery on the Panipat-Khatima highway, officials said. Circle Officer Rupali Rao told PTI that the victims were travelling from Haryana to Haridwar to immerse the ashes of a relative when the accident took place. The deceased were identified as Mohini (44), Anju (30), Vimmi (35), Rajender (50), Shiva (30, driver) and Piyush (30), all residents of Faridpur in Haryana. The injured has been admitted to a hospital.
The incident that took place over a month ago came to light when the boys mother stumbled upon the video on Instagram on Saturday
Relentless reformer who made democracy accountable
I first met Professor Jagdeep S Chhokar in 2006, when I was the youngest in the Election Commission of India. At that time, the relationship between the Election Commission (EC) and the Association for Democratic Reforms (ADR)the organisation he co-foundedwas marked by caution, even suspicion. ADR had begun to make waves with its landmark petitions in the courts, demanding greater transparency in elections. From within the EC, we were instinctively wary: here was an organisation holding up a mirror to the system we were constitutionally sworn to safeguard. But the more we engaged with Jagdeep, the more we realised that we were fighting the same battleto make Indias democracy not just participatory, but truly informed. It was the beginning of a professional partnership and a personal friendship that endured through the years. A Shared Haryana Connection The fact that Jagdeep belonged to Haryanawhich was my own cadrebrought us personally closer. He was born in Patti Kalyana, a well-known village in Panipat, which was earlier part of Karnal district, where I underwent my IAS training. That coincidence alone would have been enough to give us a sense of kinship, but our connections went even deeper. As a student, I used to attend German classes at Max Mueller Bhavan, where his sister, Bimla Chhokarwho later became Bimla Bhallawas also a fellow student. These ties made it feel natural for us to look upon each other almost as family. Our conversations often ranged from electoral law to personal anecdotes, and just a few months ago he told mewith characteristic candor that for the last 15 years he has been quoting me on a subject close to both our hearts: electoral rolls. I had once said that electoral rolls are the soft underbelly of the Election Commission. Jagdeep said he had repeated that line hundreds of times in his writings and speeches. Now, with the controversy around the Special Intensive Revision of rolls in Bihar at its peak, that observation seems more relevant than ever. From IIM to ADR: A Scholar Who Chose The Battlefield Professor Chhokar was not a career activist. A distinguished academic and former dean of IIM-Ahmedabad, he could have chosen a quiet, comfortable life in the cloisters of academia. Instead, he brought the same intellectual rigour that defined his scholarship to the contested arena of electoral reform. ADRs origin story is now the stuff of democratic legend: a group of IIM-A professorsincluding Chhokarfiled a PIL in the Delhi High Court in 1999 seeking mandatory disclosure of criminal, financial, and educational background of candidates contesting elections. The case eventually reached the Supreme Court, and in 2002, the landmark judgment mandated that such disclosures be made public. This was a watershed moment in Indian democracy. It was Jagdeep who became the public face of this movement, taking ADRs mission beyond courtrooms to civil society, media platforms, and public debates. He combined the empiricism of a researcher with the passion of a reformer, often presenting data that embarrassed political parties but empowered the citizenry. ADR As The Eyes and Ears Of Reform In the years that followed, ADR became indispensable to the cause of electoral reform. Its painstaking work of compiling and analysing candidate affidavits, publishing reports on criminalisation of politics, and tracking campaign finance violations provided an evidence base that no one could ignore not even the political class. ADRs data is now the gold standard for anyone studying the state of Indian democracy. For the EC, ADR became an ally we did not know we needed. Its data helped us sharpen our own interventionsfrom tightening rules on candidate disclosures to nudging political parties toward internal democracy. I would often share panels with Jagdeep at public fora; we spoke the same language of reform, he perhaps a bit more sharply, I a bit more diplomatically. But we were on the same side of history. The Legacy He Leaves Behind Today, when we speak of informed choice as a cornerstone of free and fair elections, we must remember: millions of citizens now check candidate affidavits, criminal records, and asset declarations before casting their vote. This shift from blind allegiance to evidence-based votingis part of Jagdeeps legacy. S Y Quraishi Former Chief Election Commissioner Of India
'US Tariffs Are Making It Hard to Keep My Textile Factory in Panipat Running'
'We dont have any new orders, and even the old ones have been put on hold,' writes a textile factory owner.
