Haryana News
View News by News Source
Rice procurement in Punjab, Haryana ends, pan-India purchase up 13% in October-November
Due to early arrival of the paddy this year, the Centre allowed procuring agencies in Punjab and Haryana to begin purchase from mid-September and in Tamil Nadu from September 1
Cricket stars, selfies, security slips: Punjab vs Haryana thriller in Hyderabad draws 10,000 fans
Uppal stadium packed as Hardik Pandya and Abhishek Sharma put on star-studded show, prompting repeated pitch invasions, helping Baroda win
'No Discussion': Haryana CM Nayab Saini On New Assembly Building In Chandigarh
In 2022, then Haryana assembly speaker Gian Chand Gupta had demanded land for a new Vidhan Sabha building in Chandigarh.
This winter, central and north India are bracing for a colder season with an increased number of cold wave days, according to the IMD. Regions like Madhya Pradesh, Punjab, Haryana, and Delhi are expected to experience below-normal temperatures and prolonged cold spells, posing risks to health, transport, and air quality.
Schools In These States Closed Today, Check If Yours Is On The List
School Holidays Today: Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini on December 1 announced a special holiday on Tuesday for all students who participated in the global recitation of the Bhagavad Gita.
NIA raids eight sites in J&K, UP in probe into deadly Red Fort terror attack
Working in close coordination with Delhi Police, Jammu and Kashmir Police, Haryana Police, Uttar Pradesh Police and various sister agencies, the NIA is continuing its investigation across states
Trial court sends Al Falah University founder to 14-day judicial custody
NEW DELHI: A Delhi court on Monday remanded Jawad Ahmed Siddiqui, the founder and chairman of Haryanas Al-Falah University, to 14 days of judicial custody in connection with an expanding money laundering investigation linked to the recent Red Fort blast. The order came from Additional Sessions Judge Sheetal Chaudhary Pradhan, after Siddiqui was produced before the court on the completion of his 13-day Enforcement Directorate (ED) custody. He will remain in judicial custody till December 15. Siddiqui moved a plea requesting permission to access his prescribed medication and spectacles while in judicial custody. The court allowed the request. The EDs probe intensified after a tragic incident on November 10, when a doctor associated with Al-Falah medical college allegedly detonated a car packed with chemical explosives near Delhis Red Fort. The explosion claimed 15 lives and left several others injured, triggering scrutiny of individuals and institutions connected to the suspect. This put Al-Falah University and its leadership under the investigative lens of central agencies. According to the EDs FIR, Al-Falah University is accused of falsely representing its accreditation status, including misleading claims regarding NAAC accreditation and UGC recognition under Section 12(B) of the UGC Act, 1956. Investigators allege that these misrepresentations were used to deceive students, parents, and other stakeholders for financial gain. The ED stated that between 2018 and 2025, the university generated unusually high revenue of `415.10 crore. Despite this meteoric rise in income, the financial records reportedly do not align with the scale of assets accumulated by the Al-Falah group. During its searches, the ED claimed to have uncovered multiple shell companies tied to the group, along with evidence of violations under various other regulatory statutes. Siddiqui was arrested on November 18, 2025, under Section 19 of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA). His arrest followed the examination of evidence gathered during search operations at several premises linked to the institution. The EDs case stems from two FIRs registered by the Delhi Police Crime Branch, both alleging that the university used fraudulent accreditation claims to secure undue advantages. Also in court Take parents view on film: HC to CBFC The High Court on Monday asked the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) to consider the objections of parents of Major Mohit Sharma, who was killed during a counter-terrorism operation in Jammu and Kashmir, while granting certification to the film Dhurandhar. Justice Sachin Datta directed the CBFC to consider and examine the grievances raised by the parents before deciding on the film certification, and disposed of the petition. Ensure safety of woman stuck in Dubai The High Court has directed the Centre and the Consulate General of India in Dubai to take immediate steps to ensure the safety and well-being of a 25-year-old Indian woman who is allegedly held captive in Dubai by a foreign national. Justice Sachin Datta also asked the authorities to help the woman return to India, if she so desires. The court asked the authorities to file a status report within two weeks and listed the matter for hearing on December 15.
Delhi Records Cleanest Air Since 2018, Except During 2020 Lockdown: Centre Tells Parliament
The Centre also informed about 90 per cent reduction in fire incidents in Punjab and Haryana during the paddy harvesting season compared to 2022.
Haryana CLU CD scandal: MLAs aide acquitted
Rs 3,120cr, 2.7L machines drive dramatic drop in farm fires in Punjab, Haryana
Contribution of farm fires in Punjab, Haryana to pollution in Delhi-NCR episodic, says Centre
Air pollution in Delhi-NCR caused by local, regional factors, with stubble burning being an additional event, Union Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav tells Lok Sabha; CAQM notes biggest drop in farm fires in Punjab, Haryana since 2018, barring 2020
Over 50% reduction in Punjab, Haryana farm fires: CAQM
Farm fires saw a major drop in 2025. The Commission for Air Quality Management noted a sharp decrease from previous years. Punjab and Haryana reported substantial reductions in crop residue burning. These figures mark the most significant decline since monitoring began. This progress highlights effective management measures.
AAP hails rejection of Haryanas Chandigarh land demand
Nagesh Trophy 2025: CAB Haryana Storm To 10-wicket Victory In A One-sided Contest
National T20 Cricket Tournament: CAB Haryana produced a ruthless display to overpower CAB Pondicherry by 10 wickets, setting the tone for the days fixtures in the Nagesh Trophy 2025, the 8th edition of the Mens National T20 Cricket Tournament for the Blind 2025 in Jabalpur on Monday. Put in to bat, Pondicherry were bowled out for 63 in just 10.2 overs, unable to withstand Haryanas relentless attack. Skipper Deepak Malik (B3) spearheaded the bowling effort with a superb 2/14 in 3 overs, while Parveen Kumar Sharma chipped in with 3 wickets, tightening the stranglehold. Haryanas response was nothing short of emphatic. Captain Deepak Malik (49 not out off 26) and wicketkeeper Rohit Sharma (9 not out off 8) raced to the target in a mere 5.2 overs, sealing a commanding win without breaking a sweat. For his strong all-round show, Deepak Malik (B3) was adjudged Player of the Match. The victory reinforces Haryanas status as a top contender in the league stage. In the second match of the day, CAB Odisha crushed CAB Madhya Pradesh with a 10-wicket masterclass on Monday. CAB Odisha delivered another dominant 10-wicket triumph, outclassing CAB Madhya Pradesh with exceptional composure and control. Madhya Pradesh posted 111/8 in 20 overs, with 39 extras contributing significantly to the total, as Odishas disciplined attack applied constant pressure. Dhanapati Gauda (B3) led brilliantly, returning 3 wickets in 4 overs and breaking the backbone of MPs middle order. Odishas chase was a clinical exhibition of confidence and skill. Dhanapati Gauda (49 off 36) and Lalprasad Soren (53 off 34) forged an unbroken opening stand to overhaul the target in 11.2 overs, ensuring a flawless victory. Madhya Pradesh posted 111/8 in 20 overs, with 39 extras contributing significantly to the total, as Odishas disciplined attack applied constant pressure. Dhanapati Gauda (B3) led brilliantly, returning 3 wickets in 4 overs and breaking the backbone of MPs middle order. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Earlier in February this year, Andhra Pradesh reaffirmed their dominance in blind cricket by securing victory at the 7th edition of the Nagesh Trophy Mens National T20 Cricket Tournament for the Blind 2024-25. In a thrilling final held at Altiore Sports Oval, Andhra Pradesh outclassed Delhi with a commanding performance, clinching victory by a comprehensive margin. Article Source: IANS
Four people have been rounded up for questioning in connection with the murder of a 26-year-old professional bodybuilder, Rohit Dhankar, for protesting against alleged sexual misconduct towards women during a wedding in Haryana's Bhiwani. According to media reports citing eye witness accounts, Dhankar was brutally beaten up with hockey sticks and rods by a group of 18-20 men on Friday night while he was attending the wedding ceremony of a friend's relative. Jatin, whose relative's wedding it was, told reporters, We were at the wedding. There we saw some people using improper language and we pointed out to them that girls were around...After one hour, when we left, they intercepted us. The assailants blocked their car at a railway crossing, and beat Dhankhar with rods and hockey sticks, he said. Dhankhar was rushed to PGIMS hospital in Rohtak where he succumbed on Saturday. An uncle of Dhankar, who hailed from Humayunpur village in Rohtak district, said the wounds he sustained could not be described in words. They beat him so badly, inflicting injuries all over his body. The attackers presumed he had died and fled. He was still alive and died during treatment at the hospital in Rohtak, Dhankar's uncle, Satish, said. We want justice in the case and exemplary punishment to the accused...If a medal-winning player can meet this fate, what will these goons do to a common man then, he said. Meanwhile, a police officer from Bhiwani said four people had been rounded up for questioning in connection with the incident. Bhiwani Sadar SHO Vikas said police have registered a case of murder and are looking for the assailants, of whom there were over a dozen. Dhankhar's family said he was a bodybuilder and a gym trainer in Rohtak and had won many national and state level medals. Former Haryana chief minister Manohar Lal Khattar had also honoured him in 2016 for his achievements, Satish said. Dhankhar was the sole breadwinner of the family and is survived by his mother and sister, he said. (With inputs from PTI)
A Haryana businessman secured the HR88B8888 number plate for the whopping amount, making it India's costliest number plate.
While welcoming new RS chairman, Kharge mentions Dhankar's sudden exit; treasury benches object
While welcoming the new Rajya Sabha Chairman C P Radhakrishnan on his first day of chairing the House proceedings on Monday, Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge made a mention of the unexpected and sudden exit of his predecessor, Jagdeep Dhankhar, irking the treasury benches. Referring to the sudden exit of Dhankar, Kharge said, It was a completely unexpected and sudden exit from the office of Chairman of the Rajya Sabha, which is unexpected in the annals of the parliamentary history. I was disheartened that this House did not get an opportunity to give him a farewell. In his brief speech, Kharge urged the Chairman to maintain a balance between both sides and allow the opposition members also to raise their issues in the House. Kharge also mentioned that Radhakrishnan is related to former three-term Lok Sabha MP CK Kuppuswamy, who was a member of the Congress. It is better if you keep a balance between both sides. I wish you a successful term... The background you come from was mentioned by the PM, but you should also not forget you are from a Congress family, he said. Assuring the Chairman of his party's cooperation in the conduct of House proceedings, Kharge said the Congress staunchly stands by constitutional values and time-honoured Parliamentary traditions. Be assured of our cooperation in the conduct of proceedings. He, however, added, Fair and impartial conduct of proceedings, providing just opportunity to members of each party, is essential for credibility of this office. Kharge also referred to Prime Minister Narendra Modi's statement at the beginning of the Winter Session, and said they would respond later. Secondly, PM gave a statement outside (Parliament). He attacked us indirectly as well, we will reply to it here... he added. Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju, meanwhile, slammed the Leader of Opposition for mentioning Dhankhar's resignation on the solemn occasion. This is a very solemn occasion...The Prime Minister has made very dignified remarks as part of the felicitation event...Why did the honourable Leader of Opposition refer to a case which was not necessary to be raised at this moment... Rijiju said. The language you used for the former chairman, the way you insulted him, the motion you served, we still have that copy... he said. He was referring to a motion for the removal of the Vice-President submitted by Opposition parties when Dhankhar was in office. Leader of the House JP Nadda also intervened, urging members to maintain the dignity of the occasion. He also referred to the loss faced by the opposition alliance, including Congress, in the recent Bihar assembly polls. This program is a pious occasion. We should maintain the dignity of the occasion. The issue that the Leader of Opposition raised, if we start discussing this, it is irrelevant...We will also have to mention that you brought a no-confidence motion against him twice. It is an obstacle in a good and congenial environment debate which is going on, Nadda said. Talking about what the Prime Minister said outside...The loss of Bihar and Haryana must have given you a lot of pain...But you should express your pain and suffering to a doctor. You should speak to a doctor when the time comes, he added. Addressing the media on the first day of the Winter Session of Parliament, Prime Minister Modi said the opposition was perturbed by the electoral losses in Bihar and was unable to digest its failure. Defeat should not be the ground to create disruption. Victory should not convert into arrogance either, the prime minister said. Parliament is not a place for drama, it is a place for delivery, he said, adding it should not be used by the Opposition to vent out frustration after defeat in elections. (With inputs from PTI)
'Incorrect to pass burden onto farmers': SC questions blaming stubble burning for Delhi pollution
NEW DELHI: The Supreme Court on Monday said the air pollution issue in the Delhi-NCR cannot be treated as a customary case to be listed only during the winter months, noting that it will be taken twice in a month to find out short and long-term solutions to the menace. In a significant shift from the usual narrative, a bench comprising Chief Justice Surya Kant and Justice Joymalya Bagchi said, The issue of stubble burning should not unnecessarily become a political issue or an issue of ego. Questioning the usual blame on stubble burning as the key contributor to air pollution in Delhi-NCR, CJI Kant, who comes from a farmer's family at Hissar in Haryana, asked, Stubble burning was there during COVID, but why could people still see clear blue skies? This suggests other factors are at play. We do not want to comment on stubble burning as it is incorrect to pass the burden onto people (farmers) who are hardly represented in this court, the CJI said, adding, The issue of stubble burning should not unnecessarily become a political issue or an issue of ego. Seeking clarity on immediate and long-term measures, the CJI asked the Centre to spell out specific steps of the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM), Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) and others to apprise it of the short and long-term measures to tackle the menace of air pollution. It listed the plea for hearing on December 10. At the outset, the CJI said, The Delhi pollution matter cannot be listed customarily in the month of October and rather it should be taken up regularly at least twice a month. Referring to Monday's Air Quality Index (AQI), he said, My brother (Justice Bagchi) tells me that just because this item is listed today and heard there is improvement in the AQI levels. Additional Solicitor General Aishwarya Bhati, appearing for the central government authorities, referred to key contributors of air pollution and said stubble burning, vehicular pollution, construction dust, road dust and biomass burning have been named as contributors. I can give a detailed list of what steps have been taken under each of the heads, she said. Hinting towards other contributing factors, the CJI said during COVID-19-induced lockdowns, stubble burning happened as usual but still blue skies and stars were visible to citizens. Why? Something to be thought about and other factors. We would like to have a report within a week on the measures taken to contain other factors, the bench said, adding it wanted to see long-term and short-term plans. The CJI then referred to unplanned urban growth and rising aspirational population in the country and said, None of the cities of the country were developed to accommodate this scale of population or with the thought that each home will have multiple cars. Let us see which measures are suggested to us and how these measures are implemented or are only on paper. The development of cities should have a negative impact on the quality of life, the CJI said. The bench said it will ensure that the air pollution matter is listed twice a month throughout the year to monitor the implementation of long-term and short-term measures. The bench said there should be a scientific analysis to ascertain the factor which is contributing the most to the problem. We cannot sit idle. Solutions must come from experts. The courts may or may not have those solutions, but we can provide a platform for all stakeholders to deliberate, the CJI said. Amicus curiae and senior advocate Aparajita Singh submitted that vehicular pollution and dust remain the biggest contributors to Delhi's poor AQI. She also flagged reports that several air quality monitoring devices were not functioning properly. Delhi most polluted place in 10 years A counsel highlighted the chronic problem of cars parked on both sides of Delhi's roads. The CJI observed that while metro projects would eventually be a game changer, short-term measures were urgently needed. On November 27, the top court agreed to hear on December 3 a plea concerning the deteriorating air quality in the DelhiNational Capital Region (NCR), saying the issue needed to be monitored on a regular basis. What magic wand can a judicial forum exercise? I know this is hazardous for Delhi-NCR. We all know the problem. The issue is what the solution is. We need to identify reasons and the solutions can be given by the domain experts only. We hope and expect that long-term solutions are found, the CJI had said. On November 19, the court asked the CAQM to consider directing schools in Delhi-NCR to postpone open-air sports events scheduled for NovemberDecember to safer months due to toxic air levels. It had declined to impose year-round restrictions under the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP), an emergency framework that restricts polluting activities in severe conditions, and instead emphasised the need for long-term, sustainable solutions.
Traffic, not stubble, behind daily pollution spikes in Delhi: Study
The report notes that stubble burning in Punjab and Haryana was significantly subdued this year, partly because floods disrupted the crop cycle
Basketball is in Our DNA: Haryana Village Mourns Teen Crushed by Training Pole
For a sport almost obscure in India, multiple national-level basketball players have been nurtured in Lakhan Majra.
'90% Dip In Punjab, Haryana Farm Fires': Centre Says Delhi's Air Saw Improvement This Year
Delhi's air quality improved in 2025 as Punjab and Haryana saw a 90% drop in fire incidences during paddy harvest season, the Centre replied to a starred question in Lok Sabha.
Record-Breaking Haryana Number HR88B8888, Sold For Rs 1.17 Crore, To Be Re-Auctioned. Here's Why
Haryana VIP number HR88B8888 will be re-auctioned after family opposition and technical issues.
Police have filed a chargesheet against ex-assistant sub-inspector Sushil Kumar. He allegedly demanded money from individuals with disputes or complaints. Digital evidence, including call records, supports the allegations. The case gained attention after a liquor trader filed a complaint. The former IGP, Y Puran Kumar, died by suicide during the investigation.
Haryana Number Plate 'HR88B8888', Sold For Rs 1.17 Crore, To Be Reauctioned
'HR88B8888', the number plate that went viral last week for being sold for Rs 1.17 crore in Haryana will be reauctioned after the bidder failed to pay the amount within the given period.
MHA turns downs Haryana govts demand for new assembly building in Chandigarh
CHANDIGARH: The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has declined the proposal of the Haryana Government to construct a separate assembly building in Chandigarh. Highly placed sources said that the MHA has advised the senior officials of the Haryana Government not to pursue this matter any further. Sources further said that this kind of land swap might not fall within the purview of the Capital of Punjab (Development and Regulation) Act, 1952, which governs land use in Chandigarh. Earlier this year, the Chandigarh administration had rejected the proposal of the Haryana government to swap land, citing the absence of such a provision in the Chandigarh Master Plan-2031. In 2023, the Chandigarh Administration had agreed in principle to allot a 10-acre plot to the state government for constructing its separate Assembly building. Following this, a prime piece of land was identified near the railway light point The land was near the IT Park in the city, adjacent to a 200-foot-wide road that connects directly to Madhya Marg, which was valued at around Rs 640 crore. In return, the Haryana Government had offered 12 acres of land in the Saketri area of Panchkula to the Chandigarh Administration. However, the administration turned down the proposal for various reasons, including accessibility issues, a natural drain that divides the offered land into two parts, planning constraints, and it being a low-lying area, making it unsuitable for public projects. It was then pointed out that the two pieces of land were not comparable in terms of access and urban planning. According to sources, the main issue with the land in Saketri was the natural drain, which not only bifurcated the plot but also restricted construction in its vicinity. At present, both Punjab and Haryana share the assembly building located in the Capitol Complex, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where new construction is not permitted. The Haryana governments demand for a new assembly building came after anticipation that the 2026 delimitation would increase the number of Assembly constituencies from 90 to 126, and the current state Assembly would not have space for expansion. Recently, the central government made a U-turn on two controversial issues to avoid any confrontation. A few days back, the Union Ministry of Education had withdrawn its notification to restructure the senate and syndicate of Panjab University after sustained political backlash in Punjab and the ongoing protests at the university. The MHA also clarified that no final decision has been taken on a proposal under Article 240, allowing the President to appoint a separate Lieutenant Governor for the Union Territory, which is now administered by the Punjab Governor.
Who was Vijay Kumar Sheoran? Haryana student, ex-excise and customs officer, stabbed to death in UK
A Haryana family is appealing to the MEA for help repatriating the body of 29-year-old Vijay Kumar Sheoran, who died in the UK after a stabbing in Worcester. Vijay, a management student at UWE Bristol, was found critically injured on November 25 and succumbed the next day. Police have arrested several individuals in connection with the incident.
A national-level bodybuilder and para-athlete, Rohit Dhankhar, died after being brutally assaulted for intervening in a harassment incident at a wedding in Bhiwani. He was attacked by a group of men armed with weapons while returning home. Police have launched an investigation into the alleged planned murder.
A national-level bodybuilder and para-athlete, Rohit Dhankhar, died after being brutally assaulted for intervening in a harassment incident at a wedding in Bhiwani. He was attacked by a group of men armed with weapons while returning home. Police have launched an investigation into the alleged planned murder.
A Haryana family seeks government help to bring home the body of Vijay Kumar Sheoran. The 29-year-old student died in the UK after a stabbing incident. His brother has written to the External Affairs Ministry for urgent assistance. The family hopes for his last rites to be performed in their village.
Chandigarh Diary | Haryana minister Vij forced to hitchhike
Haryana Transport Minister Anil Vij was recently left stranded outside the Kurushetra Development Board Office and had to hitch a ride to reach the Kurushetra University for an event. The incident took place when the minister attended an inaugural event at Bharam Sarovar where Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh performed a puja. After the event, Singh left for the university to participate in the International Gita seminar, leaving the transport minister behind. A viral video shows Vij standing alone on the road trying to stop Singhs cavalcade but Singh did not notice. Eventually, MP Naveen Jindal stopped and offered Vij a lift. Sukhu speaks to locals during morning walk During his routine morning walk on Thursday, Himachal Pradesh CM Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu visited Kachari Bazaar in Dharamsala and engaged warmly with the locals. He spoke with the daughter of a vegetable vendor and enquired about their business. Interestingly, she was the same girl whom Sukhu spoke last year after which he had announced a loan waiver scheme for small shopkeepers in the state budget. As few young girls were waiting for a bus at Kachari Chowk, he also interacted with them and asked for their well-being besides talking to passersby. The winter session of the HP Assembly began in Dharamsala on Wednesday. Himachal DCM Agnihotri slams Indigo over delay Himachal Pradesh DCM Mukesh Agnihotri slammed the IndiGo airline for the delay of its Delhi-Chandigarh flight on Saturday night. In a post on X in Hindi, Agnihotri said the flight, scheduled to depart at 8:30 pm, was rescheduled to 1:30 am due to the non-availability of a pilot. Terming the situation unacceptable, he said that the passengers were left waiting for hours facing significant inconvenience. AICC in charge for Himachal Pradesh Rajni Patil also criticised the delay in a social media post. She wrote, DelhiChandigarh Indigo flight delayed for an unusually long time due to unavailability of a pilot. Passengers deserve better coordination and communication. Harpreet Bajwa Our correspondent in Chandigarh hsbajwa73@gmail.com
After Delhi blast connection, Nuh linked to MP cybercrimes
BHOPAL: Haryanas Nuh district, which is under glare as an operational base of the white-collar terror module linked to 10/11 Delhi blast case, has also come out as the nucleus of Madhya Pradeshs biggest-ever inter-state cybercrime ring. MP polices cybercrime unit has traced masterminds of the racket to Nuh. The cyber fraud ring involved over 1000 bank accounts of people in Vindhya and Mahakoshal region of MP, being used as mule accounts to park and circulate fraud money. More than 25 people from MP, Haryana and Bihar have been arrested and charge-sheeted. As the investigations progress, its becoming clear that operatives based in Nuh are the masterminds of the racket. They sourced SIM cards and mule accounts mostly from MP and used them for their inter-state racket, said a MP police involved in the probe. The men in Nuh operated an illegal call centre at a flat in Gurugram, which was used to make calls to people for duping them. The SIM cards, sourced by operatives in MP and other states, reached the kingpins through middlemen based in Patna. The mule bank accounts served as the pipeline through which more than Rs 3,000 crore was routed. The funds were actually proceeds of cybercrimes committed in various parts of the country, religious charity money as well as money from unknown sources suspected to have been used possibly for terror funding. Large sum of money was routed through mule accounts to the Middle East, the officer added. The fraudsters also operated shell companies in Hyderabad and parts of Maharashtra. The 25-plus men arrested over the last 11 months have been charge-sheeted. Now we are going to zero in on the racket masterminds in Nuh, he said. Years back it was Jamtara in Jharkhand, but crackdown saw newer hotspots in West Bengal. Over last couple of years Nuh and adjoining Rajasthan districts have emerged as the cybercrime hub, SP (cybercrime cell) Pranay Nagwanshi said.
A 30-year-old Indian student from Haryana, Vijay Kumar Sheoran, was fatally stabbed in Worcester, UK. He had moved to the UK for higher studies earlier this year. His family has appealed to the Ministry of External Affairs for assistance in repatriating his body for final rites.
Groundwater quality across India is largely good, with some states boasting excellent results. However, Rajasthan, Haryana, and Andhra Pradesh face widespread contamination, while others grapple with localized issues. Arsenic and uranium are key concerns in specific regions, alongside high nitrate, fluoride, and salinity levels impacting drinking water safety.
Finally, Delhi may receive additional raw water from Himachal via Haryana
SMAT | Abhishek blitzkrieg sets up Punjabs facile victory over Bengal
The opener scores 148 off just 52 balls to help his side cross the 300-run mark; Services gets past Pondicherry; Saurav stars for Gujarat against Haryana
Haryanas Nuh emerges as key operational base in white-collar terror module
BHOPAL:The Nuh district of Haryana has emerged as an alleged hideout, operational base for sourcing materials and recruitment ground for the white collar modules operatives. This comes against the investigations' progress into the white-collar terror module and the 10/11 Delhi blast case. The same southeastern Haryana district has also turned out to be the nucleus of Madhya Pradeshs biggest-ever inter-state cyber crime ring, which was busted by the police in early 2025. As the MP polices cyber crime unit accelerates its probe into the inter-state racket, men operating from Nuh (Haryana) have emerged as the kingpins and masterminds, which is believed to be worth more than Rs 3000 crore. Anatomy of a white collar terror module The cyber fraud ring involved more than 1000 bank accounts of people in the Vindhya and Mahakoshal region of MP, being used as mule accounts to park and circulate fraud money and hundreds of SIM cards sourced from MP were used by cyber fraudsters for committing crimes across the country. More than 25 persons, hailing from MP, Haryana and Bihar, have so far been arrested and charge-sheeted in the court in MP. The men in Nuh (mostly school dropouts) operated an illegal call centre at a flat in Gurugram, which was used to make calls to people for duping them via various kinds of cyber-crimes, including job offers, gaming and cryptocurrency investment frauds, etc. The SIM cards, which were sourced by the rackets kingpins from their operatives in MP and other states, reached through middlemen based in the Bihar capital Patna. Cybercrime police bust ATM card cloning racket, nab onefrom Haryana The bank accounts, which were used as mule accounts (around 70 per cent of them were originally held by low-income people in MPs Vindhya and Mahakoshal regions), served as the pipeline through which more than Rs 3,000 crore was routed to various destinations. The funds which were rotated through these accounts were actually proceeds of cybercrime committed in various parts of the country, religious charity money, as well as money from unknown sources suspected to have been used possibly for terror funding. A large sum of money was actually routed through the mule accounts to the Middle East, a MP police officer added. The men operating from Nuh even operated shell companies/firms in Hyderabad and parts of Maharashtra. These shell firms/companies were particularly used for cyber fraud and the transfer of illicit money. The 25-plus men who have been arrested in the case over the last 11 months have already been charge-sheeted in the court. Now we are going to zero in upon the real kingpins/masterminds of the racket in Nuh, the officer maintained. As per MP police sources, its not the first time that Nuhs name has cropped up in a major cybercrime case. Nuh has gradually emerged as a prime cybercrime hotspot in the country. Years back, it was Jamtara in Jharkhand, but a sustained crackdown witnessed newer hotspots emerge in West Bengal, adjoining parts of Odisha and later some parts of western UP. But over the last couple of years, Nuh in Haryana and adjoining districts of Rajasthan have come out as the prime cyber-crime hub of India, Madhya Pradesh polices SP (state cyber crime cell) Pranay Nagwanshi said. Children are linked to cybercrime in at least three of every 3,000 cases, say experts
Three guests died in separate incidents at two wedding functions in Punjab and Haryana
CHANDIGARH: A series of violent incidents marred wedding celebrations in Punjab and Haryana. In Ludhiana, Punjab, two wedding guests -- including a woman -- were killed and another injured after a clash between two local groups led to gunfire. In neighbouring Haryana, a professional bodybuilder was allegedly beaten to death after he confronted a group of youths reportedly harassing girls at a wedding venue. Two people were killed, and one was injured as gunshots were fired during a brawl between two local groups at a wedding at Bath Castle resort on Pakhowal Road in Ludhiana on the intervening night of Saturday and Sunday. A man and a woman Vasu Chopra and Neeru Chhabra, both guests at the wedding, died after receiving bullet injuries as both groups fired at least 20-25 rounds at each other. While one group was led by Shubham Motta, the other one was led by Ankur. Both have multiple FIRs registered against them. At the wedding ceremony, they came face to face with each other. Initially, they argued over some issue, which soon escalated into a clash. Some people at the wedding intervened and tried to pacify them, but in vain. Thereafter, they opened indiscriminate fire at each other with the police, saying 20-25 rounds were fired at the wedding venue. A case has been registered under relevant sections of the Bharatiya Nayaya Sanhita and the Arms Act. Ludhiana Police Commissioner Swapan Sharma said two guests, who sustained bullet injuries, were taken to a hospital where they succumbed. He further said six persons have been rounded up, and six to seven more are yet to be held. Meanwhile, in another incident in neighboring Haryana, a 26-year-old professional bodybuilder from Rohtak died of injuries following a brutal assault by around 20 unidentified persons, soon after he objected to a group of youth harassing girls at a wedding venue, leading to an argument. The incident took place in Bhiwani on Friday night, and Rohit Dhankar hailing from Humayunpur village, succumbed to his injuries at Rohtak PGI on Saturday. His family claimed that Dhankar was brutally thrashed near a railway crossing in Bhiwani for objecting to the harassment of women at a wedding. Rohit a bodybuilder who had won several bodybuilding events had accompanied his friend Jatin to the wedding when an argument with some members of the marriage party escalated into a violent clash. After the wedding ceremony, Rohit and his friend Jatin left in the car for home. But they were stopped by a group of men who attacked them. His family members claimed that about 20 armed individuals surrounded the two with sticks and weapons and attacked them. Both of them tried to run, Jatin escaped, but Rohit was caught and was thrashed. A police official said that a murder case has registered and he police is looking to nab the accused. All the accused are absconding. Police teams are trying to identify and arrest them. The scuffle over taking a selfie during the function had led to a heated exchange between Rohit and some other youths, he said.
Who was Vijay Kumar Sheoran? Haryana student stabbed to death in UK's Worcester
West Mercia Police said in a statement that five men were arrested but have since been released on bail. According to the police, the student was rushed to a hospital after being found with serious injuries on Barbourne Road, but he died the same day.
Siddi Community's Shalina Sayer's KIUG 2025 Bronze Celebrates Inclusivity And Identity
Bhagat Phool Singh Mahila Vishwavidyalaya: The Khelo India Games once again demonstrated their commitment to inclusivity as Shalina Sayer Siddhi of Karnatak University, Dharwad, clinched her first medal at the Khelo India University Games (KIUG) on Friday. Competing in the womens 57kg freestyle wrestling event at Lohagarh Stadium, Shalina secured bronze, an achievement that carries symbolic weight for the Siddi community she represents. Shalina edged past Bhanu of Bhagat Phool Singh Mahila Vishwavidyalaya, Haryana, with a 2-1 victory in her final group bout to claim the medal. The Siddi community, believed to have African roots, arrived in India centuries ago and has since become an integral part of the countrys social fabric. Many Siddis are recognised as Scheduled Tribes in several states. Against this backdrop, Shalinas success stands out not just as a sporting accomplishment but as a testament to the opportunities provided by initiatives like Khelo India. I have participated in the Khelo India Youth Games. But this is my first Khelo India University Games. I had come with a lot of hope. I knew I would win a medal, though I was not sure what colour it would be. I am very happy to win the medal, she said, sitting beside Ismail, who heads the Karnatak University contingent. Her journey to the podium was far from easy. The team endured a three-day train journey to reach Rajasthana trip she described as challenging. We came here by train, which took us three days. So, the journey was really arduous. But now that I have won, all that doesnt matter. I would say it was worth all the effort, said the wrestler, who has been training in the sport for a decade. Shalinas rise also brings attention to the social hurdles that athletes from marginalised communities often confront. While discrimination based on skin colour persists in many parts of India, Shalina said her personal experience has been different. I live in Dharwad and I have grown up with local kids. I will be very honest, I have not had any such experiences, she said. In fact, I get respected a lot because of my sporting background. People see me as an achiever. My sister is also a police woman in Bangalore. Her journey to the podium was far from easy. The team endured a three-day train journey to reach Rajasthana trip she described as challenging. We came here by train, which took us three days. So, the journey was really arduous. But now that I have won, all that doesnt matter. I would say it was worth all the effort, said the wrestler, who has been training in the sport for a decade. Also Read: Live Cricket Score With her bronze medal, Shalina not only adds to her growing list of achievementshaving already won bronze at an All-India University competition earlier this year- but also strengthens the message of inclusivity that the Khelo India platform aims to amplify. Article Source: IANS
After Haryana CM Saini, Punjab CM Bhagwant Mann visits Japan for 10-day industrial tour
CHANDIGARH: Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann will lead a 10-day official visit to Japan starting December 1, heading a state delegation to Tokyo and Sapporo to engage with industry leaders ahead of the sixth Progressive Punjab Investors Summit scheduled from March 13 to 15, 2026. The delegation will include state industries minister Sanjeev Arora, Chief Secretary KAP Singh, and other senior officials. During the visit, CM Mann is expected to meet representatives of around two dozen leading Japanese companies, including Toyota, Nippon, Panasonic, NEC, and Sumitomo. The Punjab government will be showing the Japanese companies that it is business ready, an official said, underscoring the states focus on attracting investment. The visit follows Manns recent virtual engagement on November 26 with a high-level Japanese delegation comprising officials from the Embassy of Japan, Japan External Trade Organisation (JETRO), Japan Chamber of Commerce and Industry in India (JCCII), and over 25 leading Japanese companies operating in India. During the session, Mann pitched strategic tie-ups in sectors such as advanced manufacturing, mobility, electronics, food processing, renewable energy, and global services, inviting Japanese companies to participate in Punjabs industrial transformation. Japanese and Indo-Japanese industry leaders, including senior representatives from Yanmar Holdings and TTC Group, shared positive experiences of operating in Punjab, highlighting the quality of human capital, supportive policy ecosystem, and facilitation by Invest Punjab. The visit comes in the wake of a similar trip by Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini in October, who spent three days in Japan securing memoranda of understanding worth over Rs 5,000 crore with Japanese corporations and engaging with ministers from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry. Sainis discussions focused on collaboration in sectors including MSMEs, future mobility, green energy, advanced electronics, semiconductors, infrastructure, and digital transformation, while inviting Japan to participate as a partner country in the Happening Haryana Global Investors Summit scheduled for April 2026. CM Manns trip marks a concerted push by Punjab to strengthen ties with Japanese industry and position the state as a key investment destination for high-value sectors.
Bodybuilder Beaten To Death In Haryana For Objecting To Harassment Of Women
The incident took place after the victim objected to a group of youths harassing girls at a wedding venue.
Haryana Man Studying In UK Stabbed To Death; Family, MLA Seek Support For Repatriation
Vijays brother, Ravi Kumar, who lives in Jagrambass village in the Badhra subdivision, has written to the MEA asking for urgent help.
Haryana docs body opposes direct recruitment of SMOs, seek promotions
CHANDIGARH: A 30-year-old Indian student from Haryana, Vijay Kumar Sheoran, has been stabbed to death in the United Kingdom. His family has written to External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar seeking assistance to bring his mortal remains back to India for the last rites. The West Mercia Police in the United Kingdom stated on 28 November, We continue to appeal for information after a murder investigation was launched in Worcester. On Tuesday morning (25 November) around 4:15 am, a 30-year-old man was found by officers on Barbourne Road in Worcester with serious injuries. He was taken to hospital but sadly died later that day. Five men were arrested on suspicion of murder and are now on bail as the investigation continues. Detective Chief Inspector Lee Holehouse said, Over the course of the last few days, my team have been conducting extensive lines of enquiries to ascertain what happened on Tuesday morning and what led to a man losing his life. As part of these enquiries, officers will remain on Barbourne Road over the weekend, and I would like to reassure the community that this is to continue gathering evidence and the public should not be alarmed. The five men who were arrested on suspicion of murder are now on bail and will continue to help us with our investigation. I continue to appeal to anyone who has any information that would help with our enquiries to please come forward, however insignificant you feel it may be; it could be a vital piece of information, he added. Ravi Kumar, the elder brother of the deceased who hails from Jagrambass village in the Badhra subdivision of Charkhi Dadri district, has written a letter to the External Affairs Minister seeking help in repatriating his brothers remains. I humbly wish to bring to your notice that my younger brother, Vijay Kumar, who was studying at the University of the West of England (UWE), Bristol in England, has been tragically murdered on 25 November by certain individuals.The local police are currently investigating the case. Our family is devastated by this unfortunate incident. During this painful time, we request the support of the ministry in order to bring my brothers mortal remains back to India for the last rites, the letter reads. It further states, Due to the complex foreign procedures, legal formalities, documentation, and financial aspects involved, it is extremely difficult for us to manage the process on our own. Therefore, I earnestly request you to kindly issue necessary directions to the Indian High Commission in the United Kingdom for immediate assistance. Also provide complete support in the process of repatriating the mortal remains to India and assist us with all required documentation, verification, coordination with authorities and transportation.
Since 1966, Chandigarh hasremainedthe biggestbone of contentionbetween the two agrarian states, with multiple Prime Ministersfailing to resolveit
Court can sit till midnight to deliver justice to poor litigants, says CJI
NEW DELHI: Chief Justice of India Surya Kant on Friday said there will be no luxury litigation in his court as his priority is to ensure justice for poor litigants, emphasising that if required, he will hold the court till midnight for them. The CJIs remark came after a senior advocate mentioned a matter for urgent hearing. The big lawyers want us to just hear them. There will be no luxury litigation in my court. My priority is the smallest litigant sitting at the very back and if required, Ill stay here till midnight for them, he said, reaffirming his commitment to access to justice. On November 24, the day he assumed the office of the CJI, Justice Surya Kant set a new procedural norm that mentioning cases for urgent listing must be made in writing, and oral requests will be entertained under extraordinary circumstances like in cases of death penalty and personal liberty. If you have any urgent mentioning, give your mentioning slip along with the cause of urgency; the registrar will examine and in those matters, if we find an element of urgency, will take it up... Unless there are extraordinary circumstances involved, when somebodys liberty is involved, there is a question of death sentence etc., then only I will list it. Otherwise, please make a mention... the registry will take a call and list the matter, the CJI said. Justice Surya Kant had made the observation after a counsel made an urgent mention of a matter relating to the demolition of a canteen. On November 24, Justice Kant, ook oath as the 53rd Chief Justice of India and will remain in the post for nearly 15 months. Also in top court Notice to varsity on menstruation pics The SC on Friday sought response from the Centre and others on a plea alleging that female sanitation workers at the Maharashi Dayanand University in Haryana were asked to prove through pictures that they were menstruating. A bench of Justices BV Nagarathna and R Mahadevan issued notices.
PU Bachao Morcha wraps up protest; Haryana panel to reconvene
Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy | Bengal gets the better of Gujarat in a sedate chase
Saksham scalps three while Abhimanyu chips in with 34 for the winner; Aman on the rampage as Pondicherry pulls off a 17-run victory over Baroda; Haryana pips Punjab in Super Over
ED finds forged GPAs in Delhi land grabs by Al Falahs Siddiqui under probe
New Delhi: Widening its probe into the alleged financial irregularities at the Al Falah Group and Trust, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) has detected that its arrested chairman could have acquired some land parcels in Delhi by forging documents. The Al Falah University based in Haryanas Faridabad district is under the spotlight of investigations into the 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 .
The Enforcement Directorate (ED) probe has revealed that Jawad Ahmed Siddiqui , chairman and founder of Al Falah University , acquired land in south-east Delhis Madanpur Khadar through forged documents executed in the names of at least five deceased landowners, sources said on Friday. The Haryana-based university has come under the scanner after three doctors working there were found to be part of the white-collar terror module linked to the 10 November Red Fort car blast that killed 13 people. Siddiqui, who was arrested last week on money laundering charges, is presently in ED custody. According to officials, the agency has so far identified several land parcels in Delhi that were acquired by Siddiquis private company, Tarbiya Education Foundation, through forged powers of attorney, some of which were executed decades after the actual landowners had died. During the investigation, we examined all the financial details and found that forged General Power of Attorney (GPA) was used to sell land in the names of dead owners, and it was ultimately acquired by Tarbia Education Foundation of Jawad Ahmad Siddiqui, said an agency official. A probe has also revealed that the land in Khasra No. 792, Madanpur Khadar, was acquired through fraud by Tarbia Education Foundation. The deed records a sale of land in Khasra No. 792 (and related land) in favour of Tarbia Education Foundation, for a consideration of Rs 75,00,000. The ED has found that the GPA is false and fabricated. The signatures/thumb impressions of the deceased are forged. The land was transferred on the basis of forged GPA and the ultimate beneficiary is Tarbia Education Foundation, which purchased the land on the basis of forged GPA by sellers, the official said. An examination of documents has revealed that one man, identified as Vinod Kumar, held the power of attorney for at least five landowners who were already dead by the time the power of attorney was registered on 7 January 2004, according to the official. The agency has found that one landowner, Nathu, died on 1 January 1972, followed by Harbans Singh, who died on 27 April 1991; Harkesh, who died on 12 June 1993; Shiv Dayal, who died on 22 January 1998; and Jay Ram, who died on 15 October 1998. Interestingly, the date of GPA registration of all these people in favour of Vinod Kumar is 7 January 2004, and it was later sold to Tarbia on 27 June 2013, the official said. The GPA registration carried the names and signatures or thumb impressions of the deceased landowners. The agency has also found that in several instances the purported signatories had died long before the GPA was executed in January 2004. A GPA said to be signed by a dead person has no legal authority, but despite this, a registered sale deed dated 27 June 2013 was executed, he said. Siddiqui was arrested on 18 November, hours after multiple ED teams conducted searches at 25 locations across Delhi and Faridabad linked to the Al Falah Group in connection with alleged fraudulent claims of accreditation and financial irregularities by the groups flagship institutions. Delhi Police have also registered two FIRs based on a complaint from the UGC. One FIR alleges cheating, while the other invokes charges of forgery. The Association of Indian Universities has revoked Al Falah Universitys membership. Earlier, the National Assessment and Accreditation Council (NAAC) issued a notice asking the private university to explain why the UGC should not be asked to withdraw its recognition. The university had claimed on its website that its Al Falah School of Engineering and Technology and Al Falah School of Education and Training had A grades from the NAAC.
To honour the invaluable contribution made by private schools in elevating the stature of education, sports and culture in the country, Chandigarh University in collaboration with Federation of Private Schools and Associations of Punjab (FAP) felicitated principals, teachers and students from over 800 schools across India during the 5th edition of the FAP National Awards 2025 held at Chandigarh University campus. Haryana Governor, Prof Ashim Kumar Ghosh, addressing the awardees during the inauguration of 2-Day FAP National Awards 2025 Ogranised by Chandigarh University Governor of Haryana, Prof Ashim Kumar Ghosh, inaugurated the FAP National Awards 2025 as the Chief Guest. He was accompanied by his wife Mitra Ghosh. Besides Member of Parliament (Rajya Sabha) and Chancellor, Chandigarh University, Satnam Singh Sandhu who presided over the event as Guest of Honour, the other dignitaries who graced the event included Dr G Immanuel, Chairman of Council for the Indian School Certificate Examinations (ICSE), singer, actor and lyricist Gurnam Bhullar, Chandigarh University Vice-Chancellor, Dr Raviraja N Seetharam, Senior Managing Director Chandigarh University Deepinder Singh Sandhu and President of FAP Dr Jagjit Singh Dhuri. On the opening day of FAP National Awards 2025, 782 schools, teachers, principals and meritorious students from 18 States & UTs were felicitated with the awards. During the inaugural ceremony, 20 awards were given for Lifetime Achievement, Academic Achievement, Pride of India- Academic Achievement and Pride of India- Sports Achievement Awards. In all, Lifetime Achievement Award was given to 50 principals and teachers, Pride of India- Academic Achievement Awards were given to 315 awards students of 105 schools and 41 schools were given awards for achievements in sports. Pride of India- Sports Achievement Awards were also given to 356 students. In the two-day award ceremony, awards will be given to teachers, students and schools from 18 States and Union Territories including Punjab, Haryana, Himachal Pradesh, Delhi, Chhattisgarh, Gujarat, Jammu and Kashmir, Jharkhand, Karnataka, Kerala, Odisha, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Chandigarh, Arunachal Pradesh, Assam and Bihar. These Awards will be given in four categories including The Best School Award, Lifetime Achievement Award, Pride of School Award and The Best Student Award (Pride of India) for their futuristic vision and meritorious achievements in the domains of academic, sports, cultural and social contribution. In his inaugural address, Governor of Haryana, Prof Ashim Kumar Ghosh said, “ Private sector plays a pivotal role in elevating the standard of school education in our country. Of about 14.72 lakh schools in India, there are 3.40 lakh private schools which account for 23% of the total schools. I strongly feel that an organization like FAP must come forward in ensuring the children from weaker sections of society have their fair representation in private schools as well which will further promote equity and inclusiveness in education .” “ Our progress in education also reflects the visionary leadership of our Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi ji under whom historic reforms have strengthened India's position as a global education hub. The PM Shree scheme has modernized over 4,500 schools providing world class infrastructure and access. The National Education Policy has placed research, innovation, and knowledge at the center of learning. As a result, India's ranking in the Global Innovation Index has improved from 81 in 2014 when Prime Minister Modi ji had come to power to 39 in 2025 which is a remarkable achievement. Patent filings have grown up by 31% and India now ranks 4th globally with 1.3 million academic research publications in the last five years. The government's decision to reduce patent application fee is by 80% for institutions has accelerated this change ,” the Governor added. Prof Ashim Kumar Ghosh further said, “ Moreover, the education budget has risen from Rs 79,451 Crore in 2014 to a historic figure of Rs Rs 1,28,650 Crore in 2025-26. As we honor today's achievers let us reaffirm our collective commitment to shaping a brighter more innovative and inclusive future for India's children .” Commending the award recipients for their significant contributions in shaping the minds of the youth, Satnam Singh Sandhu, Member of Parliament (Rajya Sabha) and Chancellor of Chandigarh University, said, “ As an educationist, I can say that whatever change that has come in the society has come because of teachers. Our visionary Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s has given the vision of a Atmanirbhar Bharat and Viksit Bharat by 2047. I am sure the biggest role in realizing this vision will be played by the provided educational institutions and private school teachers because it is not possible for government to do everything or even fulfil the need of quality education which is being fulfilled by the private institutions for making this vision a reality. So today India has emerged from the 11th largest economy in the world to become the fourth largest economy. Even children from the poorest of the poor backgrounds can touch the heights of progress with the power of education. Five years ago, no one had thought that private schools would get the same honor and respect as government schools. Which has been possible through these FAP Awards. ” “ Children from the poorest of backgrounds can touch the skies of progress with the power of education. Affectionate and devoted teachers play the most important role in giving strength to the flight of children. The new National Education Policy 2020 aims to make India a Global Knowledge Superpower. Our educational institutions and teachers have to contribute actively in school education, higher education and skill education to achieve this goal. I am sure our teachers will establish India as a Global Knowledge Superpower with their crucial contribution ,” he added. Dr G Immanuel, Chairman of Council for the Indian School Certificate Examinations (ICSE) said, “ Now around the world now there is a lot of competition happening and every school education board is trying to compete from with other board. The best practices are being transferred easily. Most of the boards are going for STEAM education now. Earlier, STEM education which means Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) education was followed. Now, to this we added Art. Art is very important because Art is part of everything. In STEM education, Art is being added to make it more collaborative, more useful for everybody .” Warning against the dangers of digital information, Dr G Immanuel said, “ Learning doesn't happen and only within the school premises in the schools, colleges or universities. It happens everywhere anyway with lots of information freely flowing. Now one has to regulate this. Unless we regulate this information to decide which information should be taken in and which information should not be taken in, it may affect and cause a problem. Therefore, as educators we need to reach out to the children and have some regulatory system as unregulated information may cause a lot of havoc for everybody. Now, digital information is causing problems for everybody. There are countries and universities around the world who are going back to physical books and physical way of teaching because e-books, smart boards, they are causing lot of problems. ” In his address, President of FAP Dr Jagjit Singh Dhuri said, “ Private schools are playing a pivotal role in school education. But despite this, the contribution of private schools in India’s transformation in the education sector was ignored and the teachers at private schools were not given due recognition for the crucial role they are playing in providing quality education with utmost dedication and hard work. So, the purpose of FAP awards is to give due recognition to private schools and their teachers in society with these awards. This initiative not only recognizes the efforts of private schools who have reached the pinnacles but also encourages other schools to compete for achievements in the fields of academics, sports, cultural heritage, infrastructure and facilities .” “ We are honoured that FAP has become the only educational federation in the world to award 11001 management members, principals, teaching and non-teaching staff and students from across India with FAP National Awards between 2021 to 2025 for achievements in academic, sports and cultural domains at no financial cots to any recipient. The award for this record was presented to us today by Dr Aravind Lakshminarayanan, CEO of Nobel World Records Private Limited, during inauguration of the 5th edition of the FAP National Awards 2025 which is matter of great joy and satisfaction for us ,” he added. About Chandigarh University Chandigarh University is a NAAC A+ Grade University and QS World Ranked University. This autonomous educational institution is approved by UGC and is located near Chandigarh in the state of Punjab. It is the youngest university in India and the only private university in Punjab to be honoured with A+ Grade by NAAC (National Assessment and Accreditation Council). CU offers more than 109 UG and PG programs in the field of engineering, management, pharmacy, law, architecture, journalism, animation, hotel management, commerce, and others. It has been awarded as The University with Best Placements by WCRC. www.cuchd.in
NSS Pre-Republic Day Camp Showcases Discipline, Diversity and Unity at Chitkara University
Chitkara University , Punjab, is hosting the North Zone NSS Pre-Republic Day Parade Camp 2025 , which commenced on 21st November and will continue until 30th November 2025 . The campus is witnessing a gathering of over 200 NSS volunteers from northern states, creating an atmosphere of discipline, national service and collective responsibility. The camp has been designed to strengthen leadership qualities, teamwork and commitment to the nation, while encouraging meaningful interaction and collaboration among the youth. NSS volunteers showcase India’s cultural tapestry at Chitkara University during the North Zone NSS Pre-Republic Day Camp 2025 - a moment of unity, diversity and pride The inauguration ceremony opened with the lighting of the ceremonial lamp followed by the NSS Lakshay Geet, creating an ambience of dignity and reflection. From the very beginning, the participants have shown exceptional enthusiasm as they immersed themselves in a structured schedule designed to promote fitness, focus and resilience. Each day begins with Prabhat Pheri at dawn, followed by yoga and meditation sessions that encourage a balanced blend of physical strength and mental clarity. Parade drills have been an integral part of the camp’s routine, instilling discipline, precision and coordination among the volunteers, who continue to display growing confidence and commitment to their roles. In addition to physical training, academic sessions are being conducted by experts to provide timely and relevant insights to the volunteers. Dr. Pawan Kumar addressed the critical topic of Cyber Safety and Digital Hygiene, enhancing awareness in an increasingly digital world. Dr. Vivek Trivedi motivated the participants to view themselves as changemakers capable of contributing to society through responsible action. A focused session by Er. Nitika Singla on disaster preparedness, particularly earthquake awareness and response, added depth to the learning experience and highlighted the importance of readiness during emergencies. The evenings at the Exploretorium have become a celebration of India’s rich cultural diversity. Performances from Punjab, Rajasthan, Ladakh, Jammu & Kashmir, Chandigarh, Haryana, Himachal Pradesh and Delhi have created a vibrant atmosphere that encourages cultural exchange and interaction. These sessions have not only illuminated the artistic traditions of each region but also reinforced the spirit of unity in diversity that lies at the heart of the NSS movement. Speaking on the ongoing camp, Dr. Madhu Chitkara, Pro-Chancellor, Chitkara University, said, “ The NSS volunteers are demonstrating exemplary dedication, discipline and teamwork. Their involvement goes beyond parade training and reflects a deeper commitment to nation-building and responsible citizenship. When youth channel their energy towards service and learning, they become the true strength of the country. At Chitkara University, we take pride in nurturing such values and shaping leaders who contribute meaningfully to society. ” As the camp progresses, volunteers are embodying the spirit of the NSS motto, Not Me, But You. The North Zone NSS Pre-Republic Day Parade Camp at Chitkara University is not only instilling discipline but also shaping socially aware individuals who value service to the nation, community welfare and unity of purpose. Guided by these principles, the volunteers are emerging as responsible citizens ready to contribute to society with dedication and integrity. About Chitkara University Chitkara University is a distinguished private institution known for its commitment to fostering academic excellence, research, and innovation across various disciplines. With a focus on creating leaders of tomorrow, the university offers a wide array of undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral programs that equip students with the knowledge, skills, and values needed to succeed in an ever-evolving global landscape. www.chitkara.edu.in .
SC issues notice on plea accusing Haryana university of demanding menstrual proof from women workers
NEW DELHI: The Supreme Court on Friday sought response from the Centre and others on a plea alleging that female sanitation workers at the Maharashi Dayanand University in Haryana were asked to prove through pictures of their private parts that they were menstruating. A bench of Justices BV Nagarathna and R Mahadevan issued notices to the Centre and others. This reflects the mindset. In Karnataka, they are giving period leave. After reading this, I thought will they ask proof for giving the leave, Justice Nagarathna observed. This shows the mentality of the persons. If some heavy work could not be done because of their absence somebody else could have been deployed. We hope something good will happen in this petition, the judge remarked. During the hearing, Supreme Court Bar Association (SCBA) president and senior advocate Vikas Singh submitted this is a gross criminal case and it is a matter that needs attention. The plea has now been posted for hearing on December 15. The plea has sought directions to the Centre and Haryana to conduct a detailed inquiry into the alleged incident. The Bar body has also sought guidelines to ensure that the right to health, dignity, bodily autonomy and privacy of women and girls are not violated when they are menstruating. Three people connected with the Maharishi Dayanand University (MDU) were booked for sexual harassment on October 31 for allegedly asking female sanitation workers to prove through pictures of their private parts that they were having their periods, police said. The varsity, in a statement, said it had suspended two supervisors, who had been hired through the Haryana Kaushal Rozgar Nigam Limited on contract, while an internal probe had been ordered into the incident. The alleged incident took place on October 26, a few hours before Haryana Governor Ashim Kumar Ghosh was scheduled to visit the campus. Three female sanitation workers, in a complaint to varsity authorities, alleged that the two supervisors first forced them to clean the complex despite being told they were unwell and then asked them to prove they were menstruating. We told them we could not work faster as we were unwell due to our periods, but they demanded we click photos of our private parts to prove it. When we refused, we were abused and threatened with dismissal, one of the sanitation workers, who claimed to be employed with the MDU for 11 years, alleged. The women alleged that the supervisors told them they were following Assistant Registrar Shyam Sunder's orders. Sunder has denied giving any such instruction to the supervisors. The PGIMS police station SHO said an FIR was registered under charges of criminal intimidation, sexual harassment, intent to insult the modesty of a woman and assault or use of criminal force on a woman. The accused may also be booked under the Scheduled Castes and the Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, he said.
Delhi traders try to cremate mannequin to claim insurance money, arrested in UP
HAPUR: Two Delhi-based traders were arrested here after they allegedly tried to cremate a mannequin instead of a human body as part of an elaborate plot to fraudulently claim insurance money worth Rs 50 lakh to pay a debt, police said on Friday. The bizarre sequence unfolded when four men arrived in a Haryana-registered car with what they claimed was a corpse. They bought ghee and other items required for the last rites and quietly placed the ody on a pyre. However, their nervous behaviour caught the attention of Nitin, a municipal employee present at the cremation ghat. When he pulled the sheet covering the ody, he found that it was actually a mannequin on the pyre. He immediately alerted the municipal authorities, police said. After receiving information about the incident, a police team rushed to the spot and recovered the car of the accused along with three mannequins. Two of the accused -- Kamal Somani and his associate Ashish Khurana, both residents of Jain Colony in Delhi's Uttam Nagar -- were arrested. Two of their associates managed to escape, police said. During interrogation, Somani, a textile trader, confessed that he had a debt of Rs 50 lakh and had been depressed for months. To repay the amount, he devised an elaborate scheme. He obtained the Aadhaar and PAN cards of Anshul, the brother of his employee Neeraj, on the pretext of some paperwork, took out a Rs 50 lakh Tata AIA insurance policy in Anshul's name nearly a year ago, and had been paying the premiums regularly, said Circle Officer Stuti Singh. The plan was to send Anshul out of town, pass the mannequin off as his body, cremate it to obtain an official receipt from the cremation ground, secure a death certificate, and then claim the insurance payout, police said. Police used Somani's phone to video call Anshul, who was in Prayagraj. He told police he had no idea his death was being staged at Brijghat, they said. Circle Officer Singh said it was a case of insurance fraud. An investigation is underway and efforts are on to trace the absconding suspects, she said.
Supreme Court seeks Rajasthan govt's response on plea challenging validity of anti-conversion law
NEW DELHI: The Supreme Court on Friday sought response from the Rajasthan government on a plea challenging the validity of the provisions of the Rajasthan Prohibition of Unlawful Conversion of Religion Act, 2025. A bench of Justices Vikram Nath and Sandeep Mehta issued notice to the state government seeking its response on the plea filed by the Peoples Union For Civil Liberties and others. The bench tagged the plea with separate pending petitions raising similar issue. Senior advocate Sanjay Parikh appeared for the petitioners. Solicitor General Tushar Mehta told the bench that similar matters are pending before the apex court and this plea be tagged with them. The petitioners have sought a declaration that provisions of the Act are arbitrary, unreasonable, illegal and ultra vires the Constitution and also violative of Articles, including Article 14 (equality before law) and Article 21 (protection of life and personal liberty). On November 17, the top court sought response from the Rajasthan government and others on a separate plea challenging the validity of the Act. The apex court on November 3 had agreed to hear two separate petitions challenging the validity of several provisions of the law against illegal religious conversions that came into force in Rajasthan. In September, another bench of the apex court sought the stand of several states on separate pleas seeking a stay on their respective anti-conversion laws. The top court had then made it clear that it would consider the prayer for staying the operation of such laws once the replies were filed. The bench was then dealing with a batch of petitions challenging the constitutional validity of anti-conversion laws enacted by several states, including Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Chhattisgarh, Gujarat, Haryana, Jharkhand and Karnataka.
Haryanas Special Task Force arrests gangster; seizes explosives, foils major attack plot in Karnal
Acting on a specific intelligence input, the Special Task Force (STF) team led by Inspector Deependra Singh, apprehended gangster Amar Singh, who is involved in several criminal cases
Haryana to launch new city gas distribution policy to boost infrastructure investment
The CGD policy is expected to open new doors for both public and private investment in natural gas pipelines and distribution networks
Punjab CM Bhagwant Mann, Haryana minister of state visit kin after basketball players death
Haryana disaster mgmt dept introduces FIFO system to ensure efficiency in property docu approval
Rajasthan taking steps to bring excess Yamuna waters during monsoon
The decision to divert excess Yamuna waters to Rajasthan follows an agreement signed with the Haryana government in February 2024 for getting the States full share of 1.119 billion cusec metre water as per the 1994 Yamuna Water Agreement
After death of two basketball players, Haryana CM orders review of sports complexes
Haryana CM Nayab Saini expressed condolences over the deaths and announced 5 lakh as financial assistance to the families of each of the deceased
Tesla likely to set up Indias first EV plant in Haryana: CM Nayab Singh Saini
J&K police raid sites linked to banned Jamaat-e-Islami amid crackdown on 'terror support ecosystem'
Police on Thursday launched coordinated raids and inspections across the Kashmir Valley, targeting locations linked to the banned Jamaat-e-Islami (JeI) and conducting city-wide checks at madrassas and mosques as part of an ongoing crackdown aimed at dismantling what authorities described as the terror support ecosystem. Officials said searches were carried out in Srinagar, Anantnag, Pulwama, Shopian, Kulgam, Budgam and Kupwara. The raids targeted residential premises and business establishments linked to JeI members and their associates following credible intelligence suggesting anti-national activities. Electronic devices, documents and literature were seized for detailed scrutiny, they said. In Srinagar, police conducted extensive searches at the residences and establishments of Umar Sultan Guru from Chanpora, Mohammad Abdullah Wani from Budgam, currently residing at Mandir Bagh Baghat, Ghulam Mohammad Bhat from Bemina, Mohammad Ramzan Naik alias Faheem from Lal Bazar, Bashir Ahmad Lone from Harwan, and Manzoor Ahmad of Nowgam Chowk. Searches were also conducted at locations associated with JeI-affiliated institutions, including the residences of Mohammad Ramzan Lone of Soura (Ramzana Memorial Educational Institute), Shahid Zahgeer of Buchpora Soura (Ramzana Memorial School), and Peer Giyas Ud Din of Nowgam (Falah Research Ramzan Centre), officials said. Police also raided several institutions linked to JeI ideology, including Jamiat-ul-Banaat at Kashmir University in Lal Bazar, Rahat Manzil (JK Yateem Khana) in Bagh-i-Nand Singh, Chattabal, Chinar Publication Trust in Maisuma and Al-Kousar Book Shop in Maisuma. In Kupwara, searches were conducted at the Jamia Islamia Institute in Waripora, Handwara, based on information indicating suspected unlawful activities. The crackdown intensified following the 10 November blast near Delhis Red Fort metro station, which left 13 people dead. The doctor believed to have been driving the car that exploded was identified as Umar Nabi, a resident of Kashmir. J&K police raid hospitals, prisons, and chemical stores in crackdown on Delhi blast-linked terror networks Two days later, the Union government described the incident as a terrorist incident. Hours before the blast, police had cracked an inter-state and transnational terror module in Faridabad and Uttar Pradeshs Saharanpur. Subsequent investigations, police said, led to the recovery of nearly 3,000 kg of explosives-making material from various locations, including Faridabad. On 12 November, the Jammu and Kashmir Police conducted raids at more than 300 locations linked to persons affiliated with the banned Jamaat-e-Islami after intelligence inputs indicated attempts to revive the proscribed organisation under different names. As investigations continued, the explosives recovered earlier blew up during sampling at the Nowgam police station on the outskirts of Srinagar on 14 November, killing nine people and injuring 32. Against this backdrop, Srinagar Police on Thursday carried out fresh inspections at madrassas and masjids across all zones. A police spokesman said the checks were part of the larger effort to counter radicalisation and strengthen de-radicalisation measures. The inspection is part of an ongoing crackdown against individuals and networks associated with terrorist organisations to dismantle the terror support ecosystem in the region and strengthen de-radicalisation efforts, he said. Search teams, accompanied by executive magistrates and independent witnesses, inspected digital devices, documents and other materials to gather evidence related to terror-linked or radical activities inimical to the security and integrity of the nation. Police said the operations were conducted strictly in accordance with legal procedures ensuring transparency and accountability at every stage. These searches will continue wherever credible inputs indicate the presence of individuals or materials linked to terror or radicalised activities prejudicial to the security of the nation, the spokesman said. Police urged citizens to cooperate with ongoing investigations and report suspicious activity. Two religious preachers, Molvi Irfan from Shopian and Molvi Ishtiaq from Mewat in Haryana, have already been arrested in connection with the terror module case. (Inputs from PTI)
Haryana DGP Served Notice Over Criminal Mindset Remark On Thar, Bullet Riders
The legal notice asks Haryana DGP to tender an unconditional written apology and retract his remark within 15 days.
Costliest number plate in India, HR88B8888 sold at Rs 1.17 crore
Chandigarh: Haryana has broken a national record in the VIP vehicle-number auction, with registration plate HR 88 B 8888 fetching Rs 1.17 crore, the highest price ever paid for a car registration number in India. The online bidding was conducted through the states official VIP-number auction portal from Friday, 5 pm to Monday, 9 am. 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 .
Haryana RERA directs MRG developer to reinstate canceled unit to buyer
Haryana RERA has ordered real estate developer MRG to reinstate a buyer's cancelled unit within 30 days and pay delay possession charges. The developer had cancelled the unit in July 2023 despite the buyer paying over 100% of the sale consideration. RERA found the cancellation invalid due to insufficient notice period for payment.
Indias first all-in-one Tesla Motors facility inaugurated in Gurugram
CHANDIGARH: The countrys first all-in-one Tesla India Motors centre in Gurugram was inaugurated by Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini on Thursday. The new facility brings retail, after-sales service, delivery and charging together under one roof. Elon Musk-led EV makers centre is in Sector 48 at Orchid Business Park in Gurugram. The two centres opened earlier at Bandra Kurla Complex in Mumbai and Aerocity in Delhi only displayed vehicles, but this centre will provide all major services. CM Saini expressed confidence that Tesla will establish its first electric vehicle manufacturing plant and other related Tesla units in the state. He added that AI hubs are being established in Gurugram and Panchkula to promote AI-based startups and research. Saini said that the Haryana Government is consistently working to reduce the cost of doing business for industries in the state. As part of these efforts, a special leasing policy has been introduced for industrial plots. He added that the local supply chain is also being strengthened in collaboration with industries already established in the region. He further stated that, to ensure effective dialogue with foreign companies and governments, the Haryana Government has set up the Department of Foreign Cooperation, which is actively facilitating collaborations with global investors. He highlighted that a robust Ease of Doing Business ecosystem has been created to accelerate industrial development, due to which Haryana emerged as a leader in the Top Achievers category of the Ease of Doing Business rankings. He also said that Haryana takes pride in its automobile sector, which manufactures the highest number of passenger cars in India. Saini said that the Haryana Government has taken significant steps to free businesses from red tape by amending outdated laws that no longer serve todays needs. He added that the government notified the Public Trust Ordinance, 2025, on October 11, which decriminalises 164 provisions across 42 state acts. He stated that, as a result of the Haryana Governments progressive policies, 12,20,872 micro, small, and medium enterprises have been established in the state over the last 11 years, employing 49.15 lakh people. He said that Haryana is the land of the Gita, where work is not limited to B-to-B or G-to-G models, but is carried out on an H-to-H or heart-to-heart model. He stated that Haryana aims to significantly increase its contribution to the national economy by achieving a $1 trillion target by 2047. He added that the state is actively promoting new startups, innovation, and tech-based industries, with major global brands like Tesla playing an important role in this vision. He stated that Haryana has emerged as the seventh-largest state in India in terms of the number of startups, with over 9,100 recognised startups currently operating in the state. He added that AI hubs are being established in Gurugram and Panchkula to promote AI-based startups and research. To support emerging technologies, the state has also set up a Department of the Future, focused on AI, robotics, biotechnology, and deep-tech. Additionally, a separate MSME department has been established, and an online facility for filing entrepreneurial memorandums has been launched to further promote micro, small, and medium enterprises.
Air pollution levels across north India are significantly higher than national average: Report
CHANDIGARH: The air pollution levels across North India are significantly higher than the national average as per the latest report released by Centre for Research on Energy and Clean Air (CREA), an independent research organisation. The report stated that Delhi, along with Punjab, Assam and Tripura, was identified as a year-round pollution hotspot failing to meet PM 2.5 standard even during the monsoons. On the other hand, the southern states recorded the lowest values. The report titled, Beyond City Limits: A Satellite-Based PM-2.5 Assessment Across Indias Airsheds, States and Districts, stated that all the 23 districts of Punjab, 22 of Haryana and 12 of Himachal Pradesh exceeded the annual National Ambient Air Quality Standard (NAAQS) of 40 ug/m3 for PM 2.5 concentration last year. During summer, winter and post-monsoon periods, PM 2.5 concentrations exceeded the NAAQS limits in these states. During the monsoon, 15 out of 23 districts in Punjab, 5 out of 22 in Haryana and 2 out of 12 districts in Himachal Pradesh exceeded the air quality limit. It read, Delhi recorded the highest pollution levels with an annual mean PM 2.5 concentration of 101 g/m, 2.5 times the Indian standard and 20 times the World Health Organisation (WHO). The pollution crisis extends across northern India, with the average PM 2.5 concentrations in all states in these regions, including Delhi, Chandigarh, Haryana, Punjab, Uttar Pradesh, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, and Jammu & Kashmir, exceeding the National Ambient Air Quality Standard (NAAQS). This concentration of pollution aligns with their location in the Indo-Gangetic Plain. The eastern and northeastern states showed similarly concerning levels, with PM 2.5 average concentrations in Bihar, West Bengal, Jharkhand, Odisha, Assam, Meghalaya, Nagaland, Tripura, and Arunachal Pradesh all above the NAAQS. Among western states, the mean concentrations in Rajasthan and Gujarat exceeded the annual national standard, it added. While the southern states presented the lowest PM 2.5 values, Puducherry recorded the lowest concentration at 25 g/m, followed by Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Sikkim, Telangana, Kerala, and Andhra Pradesh. The report stated that Delhi consistently ranks as the most polluted city across all seasons, highlighting the capital's year-round air quality crisis. While Chandigarh appears in the top five during three seasons (winter, summer, and post-monsoon), West Bengal also ranks among the worst across the winter and post-monsoon seasons. Punjab and Haryana emerged as major air-pollution concerns, with Punjab during the monsoon and post-monsoon periods and Haryana during the summer and post-monsoon periods. The northeastern states present an unexpected pollution hotspot, with Assam and Tripura featuring in the top five in three seasons (winter, summer, and monsoon). Overall, 60 per cent of districts (447 out of 749) exceed the National Ambient Air Quality Standard (NAAQS) for annual PM 2.5. None of the districts met the World Health Organisation (WHO) guideline of less than 5 g/m. The most polluted districts are heavily concentrated in a few states, highlighting regional clustering of severe air quality issues. Delhi (11 districts) and Assam (11 districts) alone account for nearly half of the top 50, followed by Bihar (7) and Haryana (7). Other notable contributors include Uttar Pradesh (4), Tripura (3), Rajasthan (2), West Bengal (2), and single districts from Chandigarh, Meghalaya and Nagaland, it reads. It further added, Several states are in universal non-compliance, where all monitored districts exceed the NAAQS. These include Delhi, Assam, Punjab, Haryana, Chandigarh, Himachal Pradesh, Meghalaya, Tripura, and Jammu and Kashmir. Several other states show a large majority of districts breaching the norm, such as Bihar (37 of 38), West Bengal (22 of 23), Gujarat (32 of 33), Nagaland (11 of 12), Rajasthan (30 of 33), and Jharkhand (21 of 24). A second group shows mixed performance, where some districts meet the standard but many continue to exceed it. This includes Uttar Pradesh (49 of 75 districts exceeding), Odisha (22 of 30), Madhya Pradesh (27 of 52), and Maharashtra (14 of 36). In the Northeast, Arunachal Pradesh (12 exceed, 13 comply) and Manipur (five exceed, 11 comply) also fall in this transitional category. At the other end of the spectrum, several states have the majority of their districts below NAAQS, such as Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Kerala, Sikkim, Goa, Karnataka, and Tamil Nadu. These contrasting patterns highlight the continued dominance of northern and eastern states in Indias PM 2.5 pollution hotspots, while southern and coastal regions remain relatively cleaner. The report stated that the states should develop district-level air quality action plans, guided by satellite data to identify hotspots, prioritise high-exposure populations, and allocate mitigation resources efficiently. The satellite-derived PM 2.5 data should be formally integrated into NCAP for spatially comprehensive assessment and performance tracking. Also, establishing protocols for validation, periodic updates, and public dissemination of satellite-based estimates will strengthen transparency and enable real-time decision-making in areas lacking ground monitors.
62.50% of groundwater samples from Punjab have uranium levels above safety threshold limit: Report
CHANDIGARH: A staggering 62.50 per cent of groundwater samples from Punjab have uranium levels above the safety threshold limit, the highest contamination intensity ever recorded in the country, followed by Haryana, Delhi, Karnataka and Uttar Pradesh. This fact was revealed in the latest Annual Ground Water Quality Report 2025 by the Central Ground Water Board (CGWB) under the Ministry of Jal Shakti. Meanwhile, across the country, nitrate contamination was the most widespread, followed by fluoride and salinity. As per the report, the highest intensity of uranium contamination was recorded in the state, as 53.04 per cent of samples exceeded the permissible limit before the monsoon and 62.50 per cent afterwards. It highlighted that uranium concentrations exceeding the safe limit of 30 ppb were detected sporadically in Punjab, Haryana, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, and Rajasthan. A total of 3,754 groundwater samples were tested across India during Pre- and Post-Monsoon 2024 to check uranium concentration. Samples with uranium levels above the safe limit of 30 ppb were found in 6.71 per cent during the Pre-Monsoon and 7.91 per cent during the post-monsoon, showing a slight increase after rainfall. The highest uranium contamination was observed in Punjab, where over half of the samples (53.04 per cent pre-monsoon and 62.50 per cent post-monsoon) exceeded the limit, it read. Meanwhile, Haryana also reported significant levels, with 15 per cent of pre-monsoon and 23.75 per cent of post-monsoon samples above the limit, followed by Delhi, Karnataka, and Uttar Pradesh. High levels were also found in Haryana (1523.75 per cent), Delhi (1315.66 per cent), Karnataka (68 per cent), and Uttar Pradesh (56 per cent). Moderate contamination occurred in Rajasthan and Chhattisgarh, while most other states showed uranium levels within safe limits, it stated. The report further stated, Spatially, northwestern India (Punjab, Haryana, Delhi, parts of Rajasthan and Uttar Pradesh) emerged as the main hotspot of uranium contamination, likely due to geogenic factors, groundwater depletion, and aquifer characteristics. In contrast, eastern and southern India recorded minimal contamination. Overall, the study shows that while most groundwater in India is safe, certain regions face rising uranium levels, emphasising the need for regular monitoring and local mitigation measures to protect drinking water quality and health. Meanwhile, fluoride levels exceeding 1.5 mg/L were detected in 11.24 per cent of samples in Punjab, while the national exceedance was at 8.05 per cent. Interestingly, Rajasthan topped this category with 41.06 per cent, followed by Haryana with 21.82 per cent. High fluoride occurrences are prominently observed in the arid and semi-arid regions of Rajasthan, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, and parts of Odhisa. Excessive fluoride in groundwater used for drinking poses a significant health concern, as prolonged consumption can lead to waterborne fluorosis, manifesting in dental and skeletal disorders, it stated. It adds that nitrate in drinking water is a serious health concern. It mainly comes from excessive use of fertilisers, animal waste, and sewage seeping into groundwater. In India, nearly 20.71 per cent of groundwater samples have been reported to exceed the permissible limit of 45 mg/L, as prescribed by the World Health Organisation (WHO) and the Bureau of Indian Standards (IS 10500) for drinking water quality, report states. In the pre-monsoon, Nitrate ranges from BDL to 2070 mg/L with a mean value of 32 mg/L. High nitrate concentrations are prominently observed in northwestern and central India, particularly in the states of Rajasthan, Haryana, Punjab, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, and Maharashtra, extending further into parts of Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, and Tamil Nadu. These areas correspond largely to alluvial and hard-rock aquifers, where intensive agricultural practices, excessive fertiliser application, and improper disposal of domestic and animal wastes contribute to nitrate enrichment. Elevated nitrate remained one of the most widespread contaminants. The highest levels in Rajasthan 50.54 per cent followed by Karnataka 45.47 per cent, and Tamil Nadu 36.27 per cent, Punjab 14.6 per cent and Haryana 14.18 per cent as the national exceedance was 20.71 per cent. Elevated nitrate levels in the Indo-Gangetic plains (Uttar Pradesh, Bihar and West Bengal) indicate impacts of shallow groundwater vulnerability due to unlined sanitation systems and leaching from agriculture fields. During the pre-monsoon period, about 73.53 per cent of samples were within the permissible limit, while 26.47 per cent exceeded it. In the post-monsoon period, compliance remained nearly similar, with 72.95 per cent of samples meeting the standard and 27.05 per cent exceeding it. Meanwhile, the Arsenic contamination in groundwater has been reported in several Indian states, including Assam, Bihar, Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, Punjab, and Uttar Pradesh. But it continued to pose a serious health hazard in the Indo-Gangetic alluvial belt, with major contributions from West Bengal, Bihar, Punjab, Jammu and Kashmir, and parts of Uttar Pradesh and Assam. Punjab reported 9.1 per cent pre-monsoon and 9.5 per cent post-monsoon exceedance, placing it among the significant contributors despite wide variations between districts. Due to high Residual Sodium Carbonate (RSC) irrigation water could lead to alkalinity buildup, soil degradation, and declining crop yields if left unmanaged. As this index determines whether irrigation water can damage soil structure and long-term land productivity, as 11.27 per cent of groundwater samples nationally exceeded the permissible limit of 2.5 meq/L, indicating sodicity hazards in several areas. The highest in Delhi at 51.11 per cent followed by Uttarakhand 41.94 per cent, Andhra Pradesh 26.87 per cent, Punjab 24.60 per cent and Rajasthan 24.42 per cent. The other parameter was Electrical Conductivity, which is a marker of water salinity, and topped the list with 47.12 per cent, followed by Delhi 33.33 per cent, Haryana 0.59 per cent and Gujarat 18.28 per cent recorded the highest percentages of samples above the BIS permissible limit of 3000 S/cm. Meanwhile, Punjab recorded 7.01 per cent of samples above the limit. Due to excessive saline water, agricultural productivity is affected. The report concluded that the Central Groundwater Board has undertaken an extensive assessment of groundwater quality across India during the Pre-Monsoon and Post-Monsoon periods of 2024, covering approximately 5368 monitoring wells. About 71.67 per cent of samples complied with BIS standards, while 28.32 per cent exceeded permissible limits for one or more parameters.
'Papa, Take Me In Your Lap': Haryana Basketball Player Aman Kumar's Father Recalls Final Words
Two teen basketball players, Aman Kumar and Hardik Rathi, died in separate incidents in Haryana after rusted basketball poles collapsed on them during practice.
Number Plate HR88B8888 Sets Record as Indias Costliest Registration at Rs 1.17 Crore
The Haryana auction saw intense bidding, with 45 applicants vying for the sought-after VIP number
'Road to hell is paved with good intentions': Congress slams government over new Aravalli definition
NEW DELHI: The Congress on Thursday slammed the Modi government over the Environment Ministry reportedly recommending a new definition of Aravalli Hills, saying this will have very grave environmental and public health consequences, and calls for an immediate review. Congress general secretary in-charge communications Jairam Ramesh claimed that the new definition is meant to restrict mining but in reality would mean that 90 per cent of the Aravalli Hills would not be counted as Aravalli any more. The Aravalli Hills extend from Delhi through Haryana and Rajasthan to Gujarat. Over the years they have been devastated by mining, construction, and other activities in violation of all regulations and laws, the former environment minister said on X. Now it appears that this sensitive and sprawling ecosystem will be subject to another severe blow, he said. According to an informed news report in the Indian Express, the Union Ministry of Environment, Forests, and Climate Change has recommended to the Supreme Court a new definition of Aravalli Hills. This definition is meant to restrict mining but in reality will mean that 90% of the Aravalli Hills will not be counted as Aravalli any more, Ramesh said. Evidently, the Supreme Court has accepted this revised definition, he said. This is bizarre and will have very grave environmental and public health consequences. It calls for an immediate review, he said. The road to hell is indeed paved with good intentions, Ramesh said. The Congress leader also shared the screenshot of the media report which said that on November 20, the Supreme Court accepted the recommendations of a Union Environment Ministry panel on the definition of Aravalli Hills ostensibly to restrict mining. As part of the definition, any landform that is at an elevation of 100 metres or more above the local relief will be considered as part of Aravalli Hills along with its slopes and adjacent land. The media report claimed that what the panel did not mention was that by this definition, more than 90% of the Aravali Hills will not be counted as Aravalli anymore and be potentially open to mining and construction with severe environmental ramifications, including the quality of air in the National Capital Region.
Indias Costliest Car Number: HR88B8888 Sold for Rs 1.17 Crore in Haryana Auction
Haryana sets a national record as VIP car number HR88B8888 is sold for Rs 1.17 crore in an online auction. Know why this unique sequence of 8s attracted 45 bidders and became Indias most expensive vehicle registration number.
Govt appoints new FRROs for Rajasthan, Assam, Chandigarh and Haryana
The appointment of the Foreigners Regional Registration Officers have been made under the new Immigration and Foreigners Act, 2025
Punjab Police Chase Drug Cartel In Jaisalmer, Intercept Haryana Tourists By Mistake
A Punjab Police team first stopped and surrounded a car with a Haryana number plate. One officer stood in front of the car, pointing a pistol.
Haryana: National-level teen player crushed by basketball pole in Rohtak
Hardik Rathi, a 16-year-old national-level player, lost his life in a shocking accident when a basketball pole collapsed on him during practice in Rohtak. CCTV footage shows the moment the pole gave way, sparking outrage over poor sports infrastructure
Delhi Red Fort Blast: NIA arrests seventh accused in Haryana
The NIA arrested Soyab of Faridabad for providing logistical support before the lethal Delhi Red Fort Blast. The agency continues searches across states and produced two accused before court for possible custody
IT will help strengthen Haryanas health monitoring system: Arti Singh Rao
Top Court Slams Haryana For Uprooting 40 Trees To Build Road To BJP Office
Terming it pathetic, the Supreme Court pulled up the Haryana government and its urban development body on Thursday for the uprooting of 40 fully-grown trees to build an accessible road to a newly-constructed BJP office in Karnal.
Bidding frenzy in Haryana as fancy registration number fetches Rs 1.17 crore online
CHANDIGARH: The craze for fancy vehicle registration numbers in Haryanas rapidly growing digital auctions has reached a new high, with the number HR-88-B-8888 fetching a whopping Rs 1.17 crore. If confirmed, this would reportedly make it the costliest registration number bid in the country, though this could not be independently verified. The successful bidder must deposit the full amount by Monday to claim ownership, after which the number will be formally considered sold. Sources said the registration code HR stands for Haryana, while 88 denotes the Regional Transport Office (RTO) in the Badhra subdivision of Charkhi Dadri district. One of the bidders, Sudhir Kumar, son of Om Parkash from Hisar, placed the 1.17 crore bid. The amount, which stood at a few lakh rupees in the afternoon, shot up dramatically before closing at 1.17 crore at 5 pm. A total of 45 people took part in the auction conducted through the portal fancy.parivahan.gov.in. Haryana holds online auctions for fancy numbers weekly, and bidding closes at 5 pm every Wednesday. An official of the state transport department said the bidding process is automated and entirely online, and the information furnished on the e-auction portal is deemed correct. The bidder had paid 1,000 as participation fees and 10,000 as security deposit. He has to make the rest of the payment online by 5 pm Monday and will thus get the number. If he fails to deposit the money, then the bid will be cancelled and the money already deposited by him, that is, participation fees and security deposit, will be forfeited, and then this number can again be put up for auction, he said. Sources pointed out that in the number HR88B8888 , the uppercase B resembles the digit eight, creating what appears to be a flawless run of eightslong considered a symbol of prosperity and luck. A few days ago in Haryana, another number, HR22W2222 , went for 37.91 lakh. Notably, in August this year, Chandigarhs (Union Territory) costliest number, CH01DA0001 , was sold for 36.43 lakh. Also among the highest bids were CH01CZ0001 at 31 lakh, CH01CV0001 at 23.70 lakh last year, and CH01CH0001 , which fetched 22.02 lakh in 2022.
Delhi blast: NIA arrests seventh accused for 'harbouring' Red Fort bomber
The agency arrested Soyab, a resident of Dhauj in Haryana's Faridabad, for allegedly providing logistical support to errorist Umar Un Nabi before the Red Fort blast, said an NIA spokesperson.
Kathua rape-murder: Prime accused withdraws revision bail plea
Chandigarh: Shubham Sangra, prime accused in the 2018 rape and murder case of a minor nomad girl in Kathua of Jammu and Kashmir, on Wednesday withdrew his revision application from the Punjab and Haryana High Court seeking bail in the heinous crime. The Union Territory of J&K was represented by Senior Additional Advocate General Monika 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 .
SMAT 2025-26 | Urvils rollicking ton powers Gujarat to stunning win over Services
Later, Pondicherry pips Haryana by six runs thanks to Pugazhendis 23-ball 60; India stars Abhishek and Shami fail even as Punjab and Bengal notch up victories
HR88B8888: Indias Most Expensive Number Plate Sold In Haryana For Rs 1.17 Crore
HR88B8888 set a national record in Haryana, auctioned for Rs 1.17 crore. Keralas Venu Gopalakrishnan had bought number plate 'KL 07 DG 0007' for Rs 45.99 lakh in April.
National-Level Player, Teen Die in Freak Accidents on Separate Basketball Courts in Haryana
In Rohtak, national-level basketball player Hardik Rathi died after the iron pole of a basketball hoop fell on his chest during practice, while in Bahadurgarh, 15-year-old Aman succumbed to injuries he suffered in a similar accident
Haryana cracks down against drunk driving with over 63,000 challans this year, Gurgaon tops cases
CHANDIGARH: Haryana has recorded a total of 63,073 challans for drunk driving this year in a major crackdown, with Gurgaon topping the list, followed by Faridabad and Karnal. Haryana has recorded a total of 63,073 challans for drunk-driving this year, with Gurgaon topping the list, followed by Faridabad and Karnal District-wise data from the Haryana Police shows that between January 1 and November 24, Gurgaon recorded the highest number of challans at 24,972, followed by Faridabad (7,402), Karnal (4,851), Panchkula (4,180), and Jind (3,109). Acting on instructions from the Haryana Police headquarters, regular special drives have been conducted across all districts. The purpose of these drives is not only to curb drunken driving but also to strictly monitor lane discipline, noise pollution and misuse of red-blue lights. After reviewing weekly reports, the police headquarters has directed districts to make these campaigns even more effective and result-oriented, a police spokesperson said. He added that the numbers reflect intensified monitoring across high-risk corridors, supported by dedicated night-time patrolling. Special police teams have also been deployed at all toll plazas from 6 p.m. to 10 pm, equipped with alco-sensor and e-challan machines so that drunk drivers can be checked on the spot and action taken without delay. On-the-spot checks allow officers to act immediately against offenders, significantly boosting highway safety and deterring risky late-evening driving behaviour. While enforcement remains strict, police officials emphasise that the campaigns primary goal is to change behaviour, not merely issue challans. The message is clear: drunk driving endangers the driver as well as every other commuter on the road, he said. Haryana Police has appealed to citizens to stay alert and advise family, friends and colleagues not to drive under the influence of alcohol. About 15 days ago, Haryana DGP O P Singh had suggested out-of-the-box ideas to curb drunken driving without humiliating anyone. For example, talk to the restaurant owner. If there are four people in a group, they could serve only three so the fourth wont drink. Or the owner could tell them that if all four have had drinks, take an Uber. The police can even coordinate with restaurants to ensure drunk patrons get home safely instead of being harassed at checkpoints, he had said. He further noted that Gurugram is like Amsterdam, Singapore or Hong Kong, cities known for their energy, youth and single working populations. Many single men and women working here have no family; their friends are their family. When they finish work on Friday, they go out this happens globally. So please, do not harass them when they are returning, he had said. He urged officers to avoid excessive barricading and traffic jams and instead explore smarter solutions such as real-time surveillance, technology integration and partnerships with nightlife establishments. Singh emphasised that while drunken driving is unforgivable, the enforcement approach must remain humane and non-confrontational.
CHANDIGARH: The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has arrested Soyab of Dhauj near Al Falah University in Faridabad for allegedly providing shelter and logistic support to Dr Umar-un Nabi, the main accused in the Red Forst blast case. The blast took place on November 10. He is the seventh accused arrested by the apex investigating agency in the case, as a part of a 'white-collar' terror module. Sources claimed that Soyab allegedly gave refuge to Umar shortly before the attack and helped him facilitate his movements. The agency continues to pursue various leads in connection with the suicide bombing, and has been conducting searches across States in coordination with the respective police forces in a bid to identify and track others involved in the gruesome attack, the spokesperson said in a statement. Sources claimed Soyab will be investigated with the earlier detained accused, as investigators will try to sort out the operational structure of the white-collar module that helped the bomber. Efforts to unravel the entire conspiracy behind the terror attack are underway. ED arrests Al Falah University founder Jawad Ahmed Siddiqui in PMLA case amid Red Fort blast probe Till now, the NIA has arrested six other alleged accused who were accomplices of Umar. They are Dr Muzammil Shakeel Ganai of Pulwama, Dr Adeel Ahmed Rather of Anantnag, Dr Shaheen Saeed of Lucknow and Mufti Irfan Ahmad Wagay of Shopian, Amir Rashid Ali, in whose name the car was registered, and Jasir Bilal Wani alias Danish, who provided technical support to Umar. All accused are in NIA custody at present. Umar was driving a Hyundai i20 car in which the blast took place near a traffic crossing near the Red Fort, it is suspected to be an explosives-laden vehicle. Recently, NIA took the alleged accused Dr Muzzamil Shakeel Ganaie to Al Falah University for a detailed location-identification exercise as part of its ongoing terror probe. Haryana Police fast-tracks Anti-Terror Squad plan after Red Fort blast He was taken through several points inside the university, including his medical cabin and commonly visited areas, to reconstruct his movements and verify all spaces he had accessed before his arrest. After the university inspection, the NIA team took him to Sohna, where he identified two shops from where he had allegedly purchased 1,600 kg of ammonium nitrate between December 2022 and February 2023. The shopkeepers also confirmed they had already handed over documents to the police and were cooperating with the investigation. He frequently travelled across NCR in a Swift car registered in the name of Shaheen Shahid. The car is suspected to have been used to transport explosive materials. On the other hand, Faridabad Police has seized fertiliser sales records for the past three years from seven shops across Sohna, Nuh, Palwal and Faridabad to track bulk purchases. The details are being shared with the NIA.
In a tragic incident from Haryana's Rohtak has shocked the nation. A 16-year-old national-level basketball player died after an iron pole fell on his chest during practice.
Rusted Pole That Crushed Basketball Champ Was Not Fixed Despite Requests
Holding the Haryana government's sports department responsible for the tragic death of national-level basketball player Hardik Rathi (16) in Rohtak, his relative has said the rusted pole that led to the freak mishap was not repaired despite requests
