Haryana

Haryana Education Minister Criticizes Opposition Amid Reform Efforts

Haryanas Education Minister Mahipal Dhanda defends government reforms while criticizing the oppositions credibility in a recent address. Haryana Education Minister Criticizes Opposition Amid Reform Efforts

7 Haryana men held for assaulting 3 youths in Mandi

Digital system to track high-risk pregnancies, newborn care in Haryana

Congress demands CEC Gyaneshs removal, calls for fresh Haryana polls on ballot paper

Haryana dengue cases jump 58% in 20 days; Gurgaon sees highest tally at 65

CPCB deploys flying squads in Punjab, Haryana to check stubble burning

Haryana athletes secure 14 of India

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CAQM deploys flying squads in 34 Punjab & Haryana districts to curb farm fires

U-19 WC-winning Captain Mhatre Appointed Mumbai Vice-captain; Suryakumar Left Out

T20 World Cup: Ayush Mhatre, who captained India to U-19 World Cup triumph earlier this year, has been appointed vice-captain in Mumbais squad for their Ranji Trophy season-opener against Chandigarh, starting on October 11 at the Wankhede Stadium. In a major development, Suryakumar Yadav, who led India to win the T20 World Cup on home soil earlier this year, has not been included in the squad despite making himself available for selection, as the selectors led by Rajesh Pawar have opted to prioritise youth power in the red-ball format. Pawar had an hour-long meeting with other selectors, which was also attended by skipper Siddhesh Lad, head coach Omkar Salvi, and cricket advisor, former India cricketer and chief selector Dilip Vengsarkar. Mumbai will also miss seam-bowling all-rounder Shardul Thakur, who suffered a fracture to his right middle finger during training and is set to miss at least the first two matches. India opener Yashasvi Jaiswal has also been named in the squad, boosting the batting unit and giving him valuable match time in preparation for Indias Test series against New Zealand, to be held in November. Mhatre missed competitive action for almost five months following a hamstring injury during IPL 2026, where he was playing for Chennai Super Kings. Mhatre and Lad, who dislocated his shoulder while playing in the Mumbai T20 league, recently cleared their fitness tests at the BKC indoor facility and even played in the Kanga League to prove their match fitness. Opener Divyansh Saxena, who was Jaiswals teammate in the 2020 Mens U19 World Cup in South Africa, has also made a comeback to the Mumbai Ranji Trophy squad on the basis of putting out strong performances in the pre-season competitions. Mumbai, the 42-time Ranji Trophy winners, are in Elite Group D in this years competition alongside Rajasthan, Tamil Nadu, Railways, Uttarakhand, Haryana and Himachal Pradesh. Mhatre missed competitive action for almost five months following a hamstring injury during IPL 2026, where he was playing for Chennai Super Kings. Mhatre and Lad, who dislocated his shoulder while playing in the Mumbai T20 league, recently cleared their fitness tests at the BKC indoor facility and even played in the Kanga League to prove their match fitness. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS

High Court order on CBI probe significant development in Punjab politics, says Akal Dal leader

Digital Desk | Chandigarh, Oct 5 (IANS) Shiromani Akali Dal leader and former minister Bikram Singh Majithia on Monday targeted the Bhagwant Mann government after the Punjab and Haryana High Court handed over to the CBI the investigation into alleged corruption involving Chief Minister Bhagwant Manns OSD Rajbir Singh Ghuman and other associates. Calling the High Court order a significant development in state politics, Majithia said the court had directed the CBI to register a criminal case, investigate the allegations and submit a status report within two months. He said the matter was no longer limited to political allegations and that the complete record would now come before the investigating agency. The questions we have been putting before the people of Punjab for a long time must now be answered through evidence during the investigation. The truth must come out, Majithia said. He said the most serious aspect was that the Enforcement Directorate had written three letters to the Punjab DGP seeking action and registration of an FIR over alleged corruption, but the matter did not move forward. This eventually led to the matter reaching the High Court through a public interest petition, following which the court handed the investigation to the CBI. Majithia alleged that certain police officers had attempted to prevent the matter from progressing and allegedly destroy evidence in order to protect people close to Chief Minister Mann, including his OSD Ghuman, Ghumans associate Nitin Gohal and others. He alleged that former DGP L.K. Yadav was also involved in this process. Majithia said the CBI should investigate what action the Punjab Police took on the letters sent by the ED, which officers took decisions on them and why there was a delay in registering an FIR. If there was any attempt at any level to tamper with evidence, influence the investigation or allegedly protect anyone, responsibility must also be fixed, and strict action should be taken against the officials found responsible, he said.

Sambit Patra targets Punjab govt over crime, cites HC-ordered CBI probe

Digital Desk | New Delhi, Oct 5 (IANS) Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Sambit Patra on Monday launched a sharp attack on the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government in Punjab, alleging corruption and a deteriorating law-and-order situation following a Punjab and Haryana High Court direction for a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) probe into corruption allegations against the Chief Ministers OSD and others. Addressing a press conference at the BJPs central office in New Delhi, Patra alleged that law and order has collapsed, and corruption has reached its peak in Punjab. He referred to the High Courts direction for a CBI investigation into allegations of corruption against Chief Minister Bhagwant Manns OSD, Ranbir Singh Ghuman, and others. Patra claimed that allegations had been made that Ghuman and certain other officials facilitated the delivery of government benefits in exchange for bribes or commissions. He said the court had directed the CBI to carry the inquiry forward, complete the investigation within two months and submit its report. The BJP MP from Odishas Puri Lok Sabha constituency also referred to what he described as four murders and attacks on police personnel in Punjab in the past 48 hours and sought answers from Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, Arvind Kejriwal and the AAP regarding corruption and the law-and-order situation. Briefing the media, Patra cited an incident on Sunday evening in Amritsar in which social media influencer and makeup artist Mad Sandhu was murdered. He also referred to three murders in Ludhiana within a span of 48 hours, including that of a former sarpanch. According to Patra, Sarpanch Navtej Singh of Malewal village was murdered on Saturday evening, while 29-year-old Laddi Khan of Mullanpur Dakha village was shot dead. He further stated that another murder took place in Anant Vihar Colony, Sahnewal, Ludhiana, where 35-year-old Dinesh Kumar was allegedly stabbed to death. Accusing Arvind Kejriwal and the AAP of double standards, Patra claimed that if a similar situation had occurred in a BJP-ruled state, the party would have organised rallies, held press conferences and demanded dismissal of the government. He further alleged that even police personnel were not safe in Punjab. When police officers themselves are being killed, who will take responsibility for the safety of ordinary citizens? Patra asked. Patra cited several incidents involving attacks on police personnel. He said that on February 22 this year, ASI Gurnam Singh was shot dead at the Aandhiyan Police Post in Gurdaspur district and Home Guard Ashok Kumar was also killed on the same day. He further stated that on May 24, in Hamza village under Fatehgarh Churian on the Majitha Road in Amritsar district, ASI Joga Singh was allegedly killed while on duty by assailants on a scooter. Patra also claimed that ASI Harjit Singh was killed on September 18. He added that five days later, an attempt was made on the life of ASI Jaswant Singh, who narrowly escaped. According to Patra, ASI Sukhchain Singh also came under gunfire on Sunday but survived. We have highlighted the number of police personnel who have been killed, Patra said, while also referring to incidents of firing at police stations.

High Court exposes govts claims of zero-tolerance for corruption, says Punjab BJP

Digital Desk | Chandigarh, Oct 5 (IANS) Punjab BJP President Kewal Singh Dhillon on Monday hailed the Punjab and Haryana High Courts decision to hand over to the CBI the investigation into allegations of corruption involving Punjab Chief Ministers OSD Rajvir Ghuman and the Chief Ministers Office (CMO). He said the courts decision has exposed the reality behind a government that claims to be a zero-tolerance government for corruption. Speaking to the media here, Dhillon said that following the exposure of this alleged corruption network, the Chief Minister should immediately resign, as the government has lost the moral right to remain in power. Dhillon said that in this matter, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) had written to the Punjab DGP three times, but the Punjab Police did not register an FIR. When the matter reached the court through a public interest litigation, the High Court ordered a CBI probe into the case. The High Court has directed the CBI to register a case and submit a status report within two months. Expressing hope that the CBI will conduct a fair and transparent investigation, Dhillon said that allegations of corruption against the Chief Ministers Office have exposed the government that claims to be zero tolerance for corruption. He questioned whether the government considers itself truly honest, why it runs away from an investigation despite repeated letters from the ED, and why the Chief Minister is afraid of an investigation into his own office. Does this not mean that there is something fishy? he asked. Dhillon said people in Punjab are being misled by putting up boards proclaiming an honest Chief Minister across the state. He said several former ministers and legislators of the AAP government have already faced allegations or investigations related to corruption and money laundering, including former ministers Vijay Singla, Fauja Singh Sarari and Sanjeev Arora, and MLAs Amit Rattan Kotfatta and Jaswant Singh Gajjan Majra. He also alleged that former minister Laljit Singh Bhullar is currently in jail in connection with the suicide case involving a government official. Dhillon demanded that the government and Punjab Police immediately provide the CBI with all necessary records and full cooperation so that the investigation can proceed within the two-month deadline set by the court. The High Court has also directed the government and the police to extend full cooperation to the CBI. The state BJP chief also raised questions over the law and order situation in Punjab, saying not only ordinary citizens but even police personnel are not safe in the state. Referring to recent criminal incidents, including the killing of social media influencer Mad Sandhu in Amritsar, Dhillon said the government must take effective action on the ground instead of merely making statements.

CBI To Probe Punjab CM Office Graft Claims

Punjab and Haryana High Court orders a CBI probe into alleged corruption involving Punjab CM Bhagwant Manns office and seeks a status report within two months.

Haryana Hurricanes Wrap Up Training Camp Ahead of VCL Season 1

Noida (Uttar Pradesh) [India], October 5: The Haryana Hurricanes have completed an intensive training camp in Dehradun, marking an important phase in their preparations for the inaugural season of the

'Dishonest Mann': BJP after HC hands Punjab govt corruption case to CBI

Digital Desk | Chandigarh, Oct 5 (IANS) BJP leader Ravneet Singh Bittu on Monday launched a sharp attack on the Bhagwant Mann-led AAP government in the state after the Punjab and Haryana High Court directed that the investigation into letters sent by the ED, containing allegations of corruption against Chief Minister's Officer on Special Duty (OSD) Rajbir Singh Ghuman and others, be handed over to the CBI. Targeting Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, Bittu alleged that the developments had raised serious questions about the functioning and accountability of the Chief Minister's Office (CMO), particularly in view of the AAP government's repeated claims of providing a corruption-free administration. It's not Bhagwant Mann, it's dishonest Mann. The man who came to power with the promise of making Punjab corruption-free must now answer serious questions about his own office. AAP's lofty claims of 'radical honesty' are being truly tested today, Bittu said. The BJP leader said the High Court's intervention had raised serious concerns about accountability at the highest levels of the state government. He described the allegations concerning the Chief Minister's Office as extremely worrying and said the people of Punjab deserved clear and transparent answers rather than political slogans, explanations or excuses. Bittu also referred to recent controversies and allegations surrounding ministers' residences in Chandigarh, saying that such developments had further contributed to questions being raised by the public about those holding positions of power in the state. He said the continuing questions surrounding people in positions of authority required an impartial, detailed and credible investigation so that the facts could be established through due legal process. Bittu particularly praised advocate Nikhil Saraf, who pursued the matter before the High Court despite alleged pressure and threats. According to Bittu, the advocate had filed a petition running into more than 200 pages, in which serious allegations were raised regarding the functioning of the CMO. The allegations mentioned in the petition include claims that illegal payments were allegedly being demanded in connection with the appointments and transfers of government officials, major development projects undertaken by the Greater Mohali Area Development Authority (GMADA) and Greater Ludhiana Area Development Authority (GLADA), arms licences, land-related matters and mining activities. The Chief Minister has full authority to transfer officials and make administrative decisions in the interest of the state. But this authority should not be used as a means of alleged corruption or undue influence. If the allegations against the Chief Minister's Office are proven true, it would be a serious betrayal of public trust, Bittu said. He also questioned the response of the Punjab government to the ED letters, claiming that the state government had been allowed by the High Court to present its position in the matter. Bittu said that, according to those familiar with the proceedings, four letters had been sent to the Punjab Director General of Police seeking a response, but no response was received. Welcoming the High Court's decision to hand over the investigation to the CBI, Bittu said the probe should be carried out independently and without fear or favour. He demanded that anyone found to have been involved in wrongdoing should be held accountable, irrespective of their official position, political standing or influence. The people of Punjab were promised 'radical honesty,' but today the credibility of that slogan is facing the ultimate test. The public wants to know the true nature of the claims of a corruption-free government and its actual functioning. The truth must be revealed through a CBI investigation, and anyone found guilty must face strict legal action, he added. AAP came to power claiming it would rid the system of corruption. But today, questions are being raised about the very office from which the government is run. Slogans and self-proclaimed honesty cannot evade accountability. Punjab needs answers from Bhagwant Mann, not excuses! Bittu said.

Political Storm In Punjab Over Law And Order, Corruption Allegations

Punjab is facing a political storm as the BJP criticizes the Aam Aadmi Party government over deteriorating law and order, highlighted by four recent murders. Concurrently, the Punjab and Haryana High Court has ordered a CBI probe into corruption allegations against individuals linked to Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, further intensifying political pressure on the AAP ahead of state elections.

We welcome this decision: Congress leader Sukhpal Singh Khaira after Court directs CBI probe into CM Bhagwant Mann's OSD

Congress leader Sukhpal Singh Khaira on Monday welcomed the Punjab and Haryana High Court's directive to hand over the case involving Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann's Officer on Special Duty (OSD), Rajbir Singh Ghumman, to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI). Speaking to ANI, he said that the High Court has ordered a comprehensive report from the CBI within two months The Congress party welcomes the Punjab High Court's order passed today that an FIR should first be registered against the Chief Minister's OSD, Rajveer Ghuman, and that they have immediately transferred his case to the CBI, asking the CBI to submit its report to us within two months. So, those who claimed to be staunchly loyal to Kejriwal and Bhagwant Mann, the High Court delivered its verdict on their Chief Minister's office today, he said. In a sharp attack on the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), Khaira alleged that Punjab has effectively turned into a police state where state machinery is weaponised against critics. Pun...

SleepyCat Expands Its Retail Footprint Across India

Gurugram (Haryana) [India], October 5: As India's consumption landscape moves beyond the traditional metro markets, SleepyCat is taking its sleep experience to a wider audience with an expanded retail footprint across Indore, Jaipur, Zirakpur, Ludhiana, Visakhapatnam, Kakinada and Surat.

Punjab and Haryana HC orders CBI probe into ED letters to Punjab DGP

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Punjab High Court Orders CBI Investigation into Corruption Allegations Linked to Chief Ministers Office

The Punjab and Haryana High Court has directed the CBI to investigate corruption allegations involving officials linked to the Chief Ministers office. Punjab High Court Orders CBI Investigation into Corruption Allegations Linked to Chief Ministers Office

Punjab govt corruption case: Pratap Bajwa welcomes HC order on CBI probe

Digital Desk | Chandigarh, Oct 5 (IANS) Leader of Opposition in Punjab Legislative Assembly, Pratap Singh Bajwa, on Monday welcomed the Punjab and Haryana High Court's decision to order a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) probe into the case of the letter written by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) to the DGP of Punjab. He said that those who looted the state must be punished, irrespective of their standing. This came as the Punjab and Haryana High Court on Monday ordered that the case of the letter written by the ED to Punjab Director General of Police (DGP) Gaurav Yadav be handed over to the CBI. Taking to X, Bajwa said, I welcome the Hon'ble High Court's decision and hope the CBI conducts a fair, impartial and time-bound investigation. Those who looted Punjab's exchequer must be booked and punished, irrespective of how powerful they are. The CBI has also been ordered to submit its report within two months. The ED had written three letters to Punjab Director General of Police (DGP) Gaurav Yadav in which it was said that Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann's OSD Rajbir Singh Ghuman and his associates Nitin Gohal and Bir Devinder were involved in corruption and an FIR should be registered against them. The agency has alleged that they were interfering in administrative transfers and postings as well as government tenders. When the Punjab Police did not register a case in this matter, a PIL was filed in the Punjab and Haryana High Court in which a demand was made to hand over the case to the CBI. The PIL was filed by Advocate Nikhil Saraf. In the petition, Saraf had said the Enforcement Directorate's letter levels several serious allegations against the officials linked to the Punjab Chief Minister's Office. Saraf argued that the cases should be handed over to the CBI for a fair and independent investigation, which is free from the influence of the Punjab Police and Punjab Vigilance. The petitioner also sought a detailed investigation into the money trail and strict action against those found guilty.

ED letters to Punjab DGP: HC orders CBI probe; demands report in two months

Digital Desk | Chandigarh, Oct 5 (IANS) The Punjab and Haryana High Court on Monday ordered that the case of the letters written by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) to the DGP of Punjab be handed over to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI). The CBI has also been ordered to submit its report within two months. The ED had written three letters to Punjab Director General of Police (DGP) Gaurav Yadav, in which it was said that Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann's OSD Rajbir Singh Ghuman and his associates Nitin Gohal and Bir Devinder were involved in corruption, and an FIR should be registered against them. The agency has alleged that they were interfering in administrative transfers and postings, as well as government tenders. When the Punjab Police did not register a case in this matter, a PIL was filed before the Punjab and Haryana High Court in which a demand was made to hand over the case to the CBI. The PIL was filed by Advocate Nikhil Saraf. In the petition, Saraf had said the Enforcement Directorate's letter levels several serious allegations against the officials linked to the Punjab Chief Minister's Office. Saraf argued that the cases should be handed over to the CBI for a fair and independent investigation, which is free from the influence of the Punjab Police and Punjab Vigilance. The petitioner also sought a detailed investigation into the money trail and strict action against those found guilty. Last month, the Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) urged Punjab Governor Gulab Chand Kataria to recommend a time-bound, court-monitored CBI probe into the organised corruption racket being operated from the Chief Minister's office. Asserting that when the CMO, the CM's OSD and the Chief Minister's wife were the subject of allegations and the state investigation agencies were proving ineffective, SAD urged the Governor to exercise his powers under Article 167 to call for a report from the Chief Secretary and the DGP as to why no FIR had been registered on the ED's reference. The representation also urged the Governor to intervene with the state government, and urged the Union government to conduct a court-monitored, time-bound CBI probe into all corruption cases disclosed in the EDs reference, including the role of every public servant, intermediary, developer and beneficiary and the money trail. The BJP had also questioned the police's inaction on the matter. We therefore demand an independent Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) probe into the entire matter, former Union Minister Vijay Sampla had told the media. Sampla said the ED reference, based on material gathered during its investigation in a case, contained serious allegations relating to criminal conspiracy, corruption, unauthorised leakage of confidential government information, interference in transfers and postings, manipulation of government policies and tenders, illegal gratification and other cognisable offences. Sampla demanded registration of a first information report (FIR) sought by the ED, preservation of all digital, documentary, and financial evidence, and a time-bound CBI investigation into the entire matter, including the roles of Gohal, Ghuman, and all other persons named in the ED material.

Haryana colleges told to join digital library for wider access to study material

4 injured as armed men shoot at STF team in Haryanas Bhondsi

Four raids, liquor seized worth over Rs two crore in Gujarat; 5 arrested, 21 wanted

Digital Desk | Ahmedabad, Oct 5 (IANS) Gujarat Police's State Monitoring Cell (SMC) seized Indian Made Foreign Liquor (IMFL) valued at more than Rs two crore in four raids conducted in Valsad, Ahmedabad Rural, Bharuch and Jamnagar districts, with 36,330 bottles and several vehicles and mobile phones among the seized items. The largest seizure was made on Sunday in Bharuch district, where the State Monitoring Cell seized around 958 boxes containing 23,460 bottles of IMFL and beer valued at Rs 1,43,84,200. The raid was conducted by Police Sub-Inspector J.S. Rajput on the Mumbai-Delhi Expressway near the outskirts of Khalpiya village under Ankleshwar Rural police station limits. Police also seized a vehicle and two mobile phones, taking the total value of the seized property to Rs 1,74,09,200. One person, Anwarsha Mohammad Hanif Belgavkar, a resident of Hubli in Karnataka, was arrested. Five others are wanted, including a person identified as Sheth, who allegedly sent the liquor consignment from Haryana, Sikandar Sheikh of Hubli, and three others, including the person who allegedly ordered the consignment and the truck owner. In Jamnagar, the State Monitoring Cell seized around 246 boxes containing 10,409 bottles of IMFL and beer valued at Rs 37,21,848. The raid was carried out by Police Inspector R.K. Karmata on an open public road in the GIDC area of Naghedi village in connection with the alleged cutting and distribution of liquor. Five vehicles, four mobile phones, cash and other items were also seized, taking the total value of the seized property to Rs 1,37,58,491. Two persons Dipak alias Atapatu Jethwani of Jamnagar and Yuvrajsinh Chudasama of Naghedi were arrested, while nine others were declared wanted. Police said around 22 liquor transportation cases have been registered against Jethwani across Jamnagar, Kutch, Morbi and Rajkot Rural districts. Three liquor-related cases have been registered against Chudasama in Jamnagar and Rajkot City, and police said he is wanted in a case registered at the DCB Police Station in Rajkot City. Among the wanted accused in the Jamnagar case are Ram alias Ramko Modhwadia, Kana Modhwadia, Irfan Kasam Kateliya, Jignesh alias Jigo Vinod Khichda, Aspak of Nuh in Haryana and Rahul Razaq of Bharatpur in Rajasthan. Police said around 49 cases have been registered against Ram alias Ramko in Jamnagar, Devbhumi Dwarka, Patan and Surendranagar districts, while five cases are registered against Kana in Jamnagar and Devbhumi Dwarka, eight against Irfan in Jamnagar and Devbhumi Dwarka, and around 15 against Jignesh in Jamnagar. Three other wanted persons include the owners of vehicles found at the spot. In Ahmedabad Rural, the cell seized around 35 boxes containing 410 bottles of IMFL and beer valued at Rs 13,36,064 during a raid at Chitrakut Society, within the limits of Kolat village in Sanand taluka. Police Inspector Y.J. Rathod led the operation. One vehicle and two mobile phones were also seized, taking the total value of the property to Rs 14,26,064. Kunj Patel of Bodakdev in Ahmedabad, was arrested. Five others are wanted, including Arvindbhai Chhaganbhai Patel of Bodakdev and a person who allegedly sent the foreign liquor consignment from Haryana through transport, along with three other accused. In Valsad, Police Inspector A.Y. Baloch conducted a raid on a public road at Chokifaliya in Kalsargam under Pardi taluka. Police seized around 60 boxes containing 2,051 bottles of IMFL and beer valued at Rs 5,90,784. Ten vehicles and two mobile phones were also seized, taking the total value of the property to Rs 19,86,284. Sanjay alias Sanjay Bhayo Singh, a resident of Udvada in Valsad district and originally from Ara district in Bihar, was arrested. Notices were issued to two persons, identified as female accused, while Bipin Patel of Daman, Kapil Bhandari of Orwad in Pardi and Kunal Patel were declared wanted. Cases were registered against all the accused under relevant sections and further investigations are underway.

Haryana chief minister invites Singapore investors to boost economy

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Haryana CM invites Singapore investors to invest in the state

Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini on Sunday participated in programme organised by the Singapore Business Federation (SBF) with the objective of promoting investment in the state. Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai and Ambassador of India to Singapore Dr. Shilpak Ambule were also specially present on the occasion. Industrialists from Singapore and prominent representatives from various sectors also participated in the programme, an official release said. The primary objective of the high-level meeting was to further strengthen mutual cooperation and coordination between India and Singapore and take trade and investment relations between the two countries to new heights. Chief Minister apprised Singapore business community of investment opportunities in Haryana He apprised the participants of Haryana

Saini invites Singapore biz community to invest in Haryana

Reward announced for absconding caretaker in retired IAS officers murder in Bhopal

Digital Desk | Bhopal, Oct 4 (IANS) Police have announced a reward of Rs 50,000 for information leading to the arrest of Varun Kumar, the absconding caretaker accused in the murder of retired IAS officer Rakesh Agarwal at his residence in Bhopal. The accused has been on the run since the incident, and a dozen police teams are currently searching for him across five states. According to police sources, a reward of Rs 50000 has been announced on him, as the search for Varun Kumar is underway in Madhya Pradesh, Punjab, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh and Delhi. Teams are conducting raids at his possible hideouts and locations linked to his relatives. Family members in Patiala and other places have already been questioned. Technical teams are actively analysing the accuseds mobile and digital footprints to track his movements. Police have also examined CCTV footage of the routes he took after the crime. Investigation so far indicates that after the incident, Varun reached Bhopal railway station and boarded a train heading towards Delhi. Preliminary police investigations have revealed that the accused, Varun, is originally from Gwalior. He obtained the documents using his elder sister's address, who lives in Patiala, Punjab. Police are now coordinating with Haryana and Uttar Pradesh Police to intensify efforts to arrest the accused. With the help of the cyber cell, the accused's mobile phone's IMEI number and tower location are being analysed to trace his movements. Separate teams have been deployed to gather information about his possible contacts and potential hideouts. Retired IAS officer Rakesh Agarwal was murdered on Wednesday morning at his residence in Surajnagar, Bhopal. His body was found lying on the floor of a room, with sharp-weapon injuries visible on the neck. Locks of the almirahs in the house were found broken. In the kitchen, the pipe of an LPG cylinder had been disconnected, filling the entire house with gas, suggesting an attempt to set the house on fire after the murder. Police said the investigation is progressing on multiple fronts, with teams continuing to comb through digital evidence and physical locations linked to the absconding caretaker. Further details are expected as the multi-state search intensifies, and technical analysis yields more leads.

Haryana Congress, INDIA bloc announce statewide protests

Haryana CM studies facilities of convention centre in Singapore

Digital Desk | Chandigarh, Oct 4 (IANS) Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini on Sunday studied international-level arrangements and facilities related to the proposed world-class convention centre to be developed in Gurugram. As part of the visit to Singapore, he undertook a detailed study of the renowned Suntec City there and gathered information about the facilities at its convention centre, construction techniques, modern engineering and operational systems. The Chief Minister said the government would develop a world-class convention centre over an area of approximately 25 acres in Gurugram. The study of convention facilities developed at Singapores Suntec City is significant for understanding international best practices for the project. The proposed convention centre will be equipped with state-of-the-art technology and modern engineering to facilitate major international conferences, business meetings, exhibitions and other global-level events. He said the development of a world-class convention centre would further strengthen Gurugrams international identity and promote investment and business activities in the state. This would have a positive impact on Haryanas economy. The Chief Minister also highlighted the development plans for the Manesar region. He said the government will develop state-of-the-art infrastructure in Manesar along with a large and aesthetically designed park. This will accelerate the overall development of the area and provide people with better civic amenities as well as a green environment. During the visit, Chief Minister Saini also studied the arrangements at Singapores Gardens by the Bay related to environmental conservation, preservation of various plant species and advanced water management technologies. He closely observed the environment-friendly facilities at the gardens, particularly the measures related to water supply and conservation, and gathered information about them. Indian tourists present at Gardens by the Bay met the Chief Minister and clicked photographs with him. Several families also took selfies with the Chief Minister. He also interacted warmly and cordially with foreign tourists. The Chief Ministers visit was significant in terms of understanding international best practices in modern urban planning, convention facilities, environmental conservation and water management. Concrete steps will be taken to implement these practices in Haryana and further develop the state as a more developed, modern and environmentally sustainable state.

AIFF to hold General Elections on December 20

The All India Football Federation (AIFF) held its Special General Body Meeting in Kolkata on October 4, where it decided to conduct its General Elections on December 20, 2026. Former Haryana State Election Commissioner Rajeev Sharma was appointed Electoral Officer, while the current Executive Committee

'My eyes are on the winning trophy': Two-time champion Vaidehee Chaudhari returns to National Tennis C'ship

Digital Desk | New Delhi, Oct 4 (IANS) After missing last years edition due to injury, two-time former champion Vaidehee Chaudhari is back at the National Tennis Championship and has her eyes firmly set on reclaiming the trophy. Main draw action at the 31st National Tennis Championship gets underway at DLTA on Monday with Chaudhari leading the womens field along with Shruthi Ahlawat, Sonal Patil and Akanksha Nitture. I will focus on one match at a time. I won in 2022 and 2024, but last year I couldn't play because I was injured, Chaudhari said ahead of her first-round match. I am happy to be back again here and I will do my best. And obviously, my eyes are on the winning trophy. So definitely, I will do my best. With the main draw yet to be released, Chaudhari is keeping the focus on herself for now. I am working on all the parts of my game, she added. Right now, I am just focusing on the one match at a time because I don't know who am I playing against. When the draw will be out, we will see who my first opponent is. For now, I will focus on my game. Defending champion Manish Sureshkumar will lead the mens draw, which also includes Nitin Kumar Sinha, Aditya Balsekar and Udit Kamboj. The Boys and Girls under-18 competitions will take place alongside the mens and womens events this week. The boys field features Delhis Praneel Sharma, Karnatakas Prakaash Sarran, Gujarats Om Patel and Haryanas Harsh Malik while Tamil Nadus Savitha Bhubaneshwaran, Maharashtras Parthsarthi Mundhe and Swanika Roy, and Karnatakas Shreeniti Chowdhury headline the girls competition. The Under-16 and Under-14 events follow, with qualifying on October 1011 and main rounds starting the following week.

Haryana CM Nayab Singh Saini studies Singapore infrastructure for Gurugram convention centre

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Haryana CM Nayab Singh Saini visits Singapore to study infrastructure models for Gurugram convention centre

Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini reviewed a proposal to develop a world-class convention centre across a 20-acre plot in Gurugram, the Chief Minister's Office (CMO) said. The planned facility will be equipped with modern engineering and state-of-the-art infrastructure. The review follows CM Saini's visit to Singapore, where he toured Suntec City and Gardens by the Bay to study global infrastructure, facility operations, nature conservation, and water management models for implementation in the state's upcoming projects, according to the CMO. The Chief Minister is on a visit to Singapore from October 4 to 6. According to a post by the Haryana CMO, the Chief Minister will participate in various programmes under SING (Singapore India Network for Growth Forum). He will explore Singapore's modern infrastructure and technology and, in the evening, meet various representatives at a dinner hosted by the Singapore Business Forum. Keeping in view the proposed Jungle Safari project in Har...

PM Modi Dispels Anxiety in First Meeting with Haryana BJP MLAs, Urges Village Outreach

'Disappointed to not win gold, but proud of silver': Antim after Asiad success

Digital Desk | New Delhi, Oct 4 (IANS) Indian wrestler Antim Panghal was disappointed not to have won the gold medal in the women's 53kg final at the Asian Games but was proud of the silver she won with some strong performances. Antim lost the gold medal bout to Japan's Moe Kiyooka, who was the 2024 World Championships' gold medallist in the 55kg category. Antim now has upgraded her bronze from the Hangzhou Games 2023 to a silver at the Aichi-Nagoya Games, something she stays proud of despite the final loss. Of course, Im a little disappointed that I couldnt win gold, but Im still very proud to have won a silver medal for India at the Asian Games. Every athlete dreams of winning a medal for the country, and to be able to do that on this stage means a lot to me, she said. The Haryana-born athlete underwent intense training in preparation for the major events and reflected on the sacrifices she has had to make. There have been so many sacrifices, difficult days and moments when things have not gone my way, but I kept believing in myself and working hard. Im especially thankful to WFI, Inspire Institute of Sport and Parth Jindal sir, who has supported me, guided me and helped me improve throughout this journey. I'll take this experience, learn from it and keep working hard to come back stronger, Antim added. Antim was the only Indian woman wrestler to bag a medal at the Asiad, as five other medals were won by male grapplers. The 21-year-old had produced a dominant run to reach the final, opening her campaign with a 9-0 victory over Kazakhstan's Shugyla Omirbek before defeating Uzbekistan's Sakibjamal Esbosynova 8-0 in the quarterfinals. She then overcame China's Jin Zhang 6-1 in the semifinal. After conceding the opening point, Antim responded strongly by scoring six unanswered points to book her place in the title clash. Her qualification for the final had already placed her in an elite group, making her only the third Indian woman wrestler after Geetika Jakhar and Vinesh Phogat to reach an Asian Games wrestling final.

Haryana Chief Minister to explore investment opportunities in Singapore

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Collision Between Truck and Bus in Haryana Leaves Over 20 Injured

A serious collision between a truck and a bus in Hansi, Haryana, has resulted in injuries to more than 20 passengers, prompting immediate medical response. Collision Between Truck and Bus in Haryana Leaves Over 20 Injured

Haryana CM Saini urges villages to adopt resolve of a developed Bharat

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Viksit Bharat should become resolve of every village in Haryana: Chief Minister Saini

Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini has said that the meeting of the state ministers and BJP MLAs with Prime Minister Narendra Modi was historic and inspiring. The Prime Minister, he said, provided important guidance regarding Haryana

Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini Embarks on Three-Day Official Visit to Singapore

Haryanas Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini visits Singapore to explore infrastructure and jungle safari projects from October 4-6, 2026. Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini Embarks on Three-Day Official Visit to Singapore

Haryana man among 2 killed over cattle theft bid in Bengal

Haryana CM Saini begins Singapore tour; to participate in SING Forum

Digital Desk | Singapore, Oct 4 (IANS) Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini is on a three-day visit to Singapore starting Sunday, during which he will explore opportunities for investment, technological and industrial cooperation and skill development. CM Saini left for Singapore late on Saturday. During the visit, he will participate in various programmes under SING (Singapore India Network for Growth Forum). He will explore Singapore's modern infrastructure and technology and, in the evening, meet various representatives at a dinner hosted by the Singapore Business Forum, the Haryana Chief Minister's Office said in a post on X. Keeping in view the proposed Jungle Safari project in Haryana, the officials said that CM Saini will also visit Singapore Safari later on Sunday evening. During his visit, the Chief Minister will seek to strengthen cooperation and attract investments in strategic sectors. The discussions will include strengthening cooperation in sectors including logistics, semiconductors, advanced manufacturing, agro and food processing, Global Capability Centres (GCCs), aviation, and education. As part of the programme, the Chief Minister will engage in roundtable discussions with leading industry leaders, investors, corporate executives, and sector experts. These interactions will highlight Haryana's industrial policies, infrastructure, business environment, skilled talent pool, and the opportunities emerging from its fast-growing industrial corridors. The visit will also include one-on-one meetings with potential investors, during which Singapore-based companies will be encouraged to explore opportunities in Haryana. Earlier in March this year, the President of the Singapore India Business Forum, Prasoon Mukherjee, called on Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini and held discussions on industrial investment, trade cooperation and opportunities available for Singaporean companies in the state. The Chief Minister invited the Singapore India Business Forum and investors from Singapore to explore investment opportunities in Haryana. He said that the Haryana government is continuously making efforts to promote industries in the state and provide a conducive environment for investors. The government is encouraging investments through transparent policies, simplified procedures, and improved infrastructure, an official statement quoting CM Saini said. He further stated that the state government is committed to extending full support to investors. Investors coming to Haryana will not face any difficulties, and their interests will be fully protected. The Chief Minister said that the expansion of industries in the state will create new employment opportunities and further accelerate Haryana's economic growth.

Everest summiter Amit Kumar completes 10-km run at Sekhon IAF Marathon

Participants from different parts of the country took part in the second edition of the Sekhon Indian Air Force Marathon 2026 in Chandigarh, with athletes highlighting their sporting journeys and experiences at the event. Amit Kumar, a Haryana Police personnel and athlete, said he has been associated with sports for around three decades and took up athletics in 2007. I serve in the Haryana Police and have been involved in sports for 30 years. I took up athletics in 2007, Kumar said. Kumar also recalled his mountaineering journey, saying that he underwent training for mountaineering and successfully scaled Mount Everest in 2011. I also trained for mountaineering and successfully scaled Mount Everest in 2011; the Haryana Police has honoured me greatly for this, he said. He said that despite his official responsibilities, he continues to train while balancing his professional and family responsibilities. I continue my training alongside my official duties, balancing work with family...

Urban Expansion Cost : Srinagars green cover shrinks, temperature rises 4C

Srinagar, Oct 03: Srinagars rapid urban expansion over the past two decades has been accompanied by rising surface temperatures, declining vegetation cover and deteriorating air quality, highlighting the growing environmental cost of the citys transformation, a new study published in GeoJournal has found. The study, Quantifying the environmental impacts of urban expansion in Srinagar City, Jammu & Kashmir, India through remote sensing and geostatistical analysis, examines environmental changes in Srinagar between 2001 and 2021 using satellite-based observations and geostatistical techniques. Researchers Amjed Ali, Kheraj and Arshad Ahmed of the Department of Geography,Central University Haryana found that land surface temperature (LST) increased by up to 4C during the period, while vegetation cover showed a significant decline. PM2.5 concentrations also increased by up to 3.9 micrograms per cubic metre, with the changes particularly pronounced in central and south-western parts of the city, reads the study, accessed by Rising Kashmir. The researchers used satellite-derived LST, vegetation cover derived from the Normalised Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI), and PM2.5 estimates from AOD-GEOS-Chem datasets. They combined these indicators through a grid-based analytical framework and applied Mann-Kendall trend analysis and multiple linear regression to examine their spatial and temporal relationships. The study found a significant relationship between vegetation loss, PM2.5 and surface warming. Its regression analysis indicated that vegetation loss and PM2.5 significantly contributed to surface temperature variation, with the model recording an R value of 0.46. However, the researchers also caution that PM2.5 variability cannot be explained solely by surface temperature and vegetation cover, pointing to the influence of additional factors on Srinagars air-quality conditions. The Environmental Quality Index developed as part of the study paints a broader picture of the citys environmental health. More than half of Srinagar was found to fall within moderate-to-poor environmental quality categories. The researchers attribute the changing environmental conditions to the rapid expansion of built-up areas and the replacement of natural land surfaces with impervious urban materials. Such changes alter surface energy processes and can intensify urban heating, while the loss of vegetation reduces the natural cooling and pollution-filtering functions of green spaces, the study reads. Vegetation plays a key role in regulating urban temperatures through evapotranspiration and can also help improve air quality by filtering pollutants. Its decline therefore has implications beyond the loss of green cover alone, the study notes. The spatial analysis showed that central and south-western areas of Srinagar experienced particularly notable changes, with increases in surface temperature and PM2.5 occurring alongside declining vegetation cover. The researchers argue that these trends demonstrate the need to view Srinagars urban growth and environmental management as interconnected challenges. They call for integrated urban planning, greater emphasis on green infrastructure and stronger pollution-control strategies. The study also places Srinagars experience within the wider environmental challenges faced by rapidly urbanising cities, where the pace of development can exceed the capacity of infrastructure and environmental management systems. Rather than examining temperature, vegetation and air pollution separately, the research brings the three indicators together to quantify the cumulative environmental changes associated with Srinagars urban expansion. Managing the citys future growth will require greater attention to environmental sustainability, including the protection and development of green infrastructure and measures to address pollution, in line with the broader objectives of Sustainable Development Goal 11 on sustainable cities and communities, the study states.

Former Ropar judge challenges dismissal over leak of 2017 Haryana judicial exam

Haryana STF Arrests Most Wanted Suspect with

The Haryana STF has apprehended a wanted suspect in a murder case linked to a showroom owner, recovering illegal firearms during the operation. Haryana STF Arrests Most Wanted Suspect with 5 Lakh Bounty in Murder Case

No PUC, No fuel: Haryana govt directs fuel pumps in its NCR districts

In view of the stringent measures being implemented to control air pollution in the Delhi-NCR region, the Haryana transport department has directed all petrol pump operators and retail outlets in the NCR districts of the state to ensure mandatory verification of a valid Pollution Under Control Certificate (PUCC) before refuelling vehicles. The directions have been issued in accordance with the directions of the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM), under which the No PUC, No Fuel rule came into effect across Delhi and the National Capital Region (NCR) from October 1, according to an official statement. As part of the measures being undertaken by the government of Haryana to curb vehicular pollution, including the deployment and implementation of automatic number plate recognition (ANPR) camera systems at petrol pumps across the NCR districts, strict enforcement of emission norms has been prioritised. Under the directions, petrol, diesel and CNG stations are required to den

Key Conspirator In 2016 Nabha Jailbreak In Punjab Gets Bail

Romi has been granted bail in the Nabha jailbreak case by the Punjab and Haryana High Court, while a Nabha court has also granted him bail in a separate case registered under the Arms Act.

Does Article 14 Belong in Arbitration? The Pre-Deposit Reference in Santosh Associate

LAST MONTH, the Division Bench of Justices Manoj Misra and Manmohan of the Supreme Court pronounced its judgment in Santosh Associate (P) Ltd. v. Haryana SIIDC Ltd. (2026) in which it made reference to a larger bench the question of whether an arbitration clause that requires a refundable pre-deposit to be made by a claimant as a precondition to arbitration is legally valid. The reference was necessitated by the fact that the Division Bench expressed disagreement with a decision of a full bench (3 judges) of the Supreme Court in S.K. Jain v. State of Haryana (2009), where a similar clause was upheld as valid. The reference is a welcome development inasmuch as it will clear the ambiguity around such pre deposit clauses. However, the earlier line of cases which test the validity of such pre-deposit clauses against constitutional standards in what should be a purely an Arbitration Act and/or private law issue, raises important questions that a larger bench would do well to address. Facts The Appellant held a works contract with HSIIDC awarded through a tender. Clause 25-A(vii) of the contract made the reference to arbitration non-maintainable unless the contractor first furnished a security deposit on a slab basis: 2% for claims below 10,000, 5% up to 1 lakh, and 10% for claims of 1 lakh and above. At the end of the arbitration the deposit was adjusted against any costs awarded against the contractor, and the balance, or the whole sum if no costs were awarded, was refunded within one month of the award. At the threshold, HSIIDC made an application under Section 16 of the Arbitration and Conciliation Act, 1996 (Arbitration Act) to the appointed arbitrator challenging his jurisdiction because the pre-deposit had not been made by the Appellant. The Arbitrator ruled in favour of HSIIDC and directed the Appellant to make the deposit, and dismissed the claim when it refused. The Commercial Court, Gurugram dismissed the Appellant's Section 37 appeal, relying on S.K. Jain v. State of Haryana (2009). The Appellant then appealed to the Supreme court. Discussion of Law The Supreme Court in Santosh Associate draws from a line of earlier Supreme Court cases to arrive at its holding and reference to a larger bench. S.K. Jain v. State of Haryana (2009): In this case, a full bench (3 judges) of the Supreme Court had the opportunity to examine a pre-deposit clause similar to one in question in SK Associate . The claimant contractor in a public works contract had to pay a refundable security deposit to the Haryana Government to invoke arbitration under the arbitration clause of the said contract. The Court upheld this pre-deposit condition stating that there was logic in the clause to prevent frivolous and inflated claims. Further, the tiered percentage rates (of the claim) for the pre-deposits were also found to have merit. Notably, while arriving at the judgment, the Court rejected the arguments of unequal bargaining power in commercial contracts citing Central Inland Water Transport Corp. Ltd. v. Brojo Nath Ganguly (1986). It stated that there was no compulsion on anyone to enter into these contracts and that it was voluntary on both sides rejecting allegations of state power. It also rejected arguments on doctrine of fairness (to be undertaken by the State) given it is an administrative law concept and refused to invoke any additional public law standards for the States dealings in the performance of contracts. Icomm Tele Ltd. v. Punjab State Water Supply and Sewerage Board and Anr. (2019): Here, a Division Bench (2 judges) of the Supreme Court through Justice Rohinton Nariman examined the validity of a deposit-at-all condition in the arbitration clause for a public works contract tendered by the Punjab State Water Supply and Sewerage Board. The clause stipulated a 10% deposit to invoke arbitration by the claimant contractor which would be refunded only in proportion to the percentage success of the claim amount. The Court here struck down this deposit-at-call clause. It differentiated the facts from SK Jain . The clause in question in SK Jain stipulated a refundable deposit as opposed to an essentially non-refundable clause in Icomm . Further, there was no plea taken in SK Jain that the arbitration clause was violative of Article 14 of the Constitution. It is interesting that SK Jain rejected the invocation of public law standards for the State in the contractual sphere, but the Court in Icomm seems to have imported Article 14 and public law commitments of the State into the contractual sphere as well. The Court cited ABL International Ltd. v. ECGIL (2004) to hold that the State has the responsibility to act fairly and reasonably in terms of Article 14 even in the contractual sphere. The Court emphasised that arbitration is an important alternate dispute resolution process and must be encouraged given the high pendency of cases in the courts and cost of litigation. It held that the clause as such defeats the very purpose of alternate dispute resolution given that it would discourage claims and render arbitration expensive and ineffective. Lombardi Engineering Ltd. v. Uttarakhand Jal Vidyut Nigam Ltd. (2024): In this case, a full bench of the Supreme Court speaking though Justice JB Pardiwala had the opportunity to examine yet another arbitration pre-deposit clause in a public works contract. The clause stipulated that 7% of the claim amount would need to be furnished as a fixed deposit for security. However, no criteria for eligibility or conditions for refund of the security deposit was mentioned in the clause. Given the ambiguity and vagueness of the clause, the Court struck it down. In doing so, also held the clause as violative of Article 14 of the Constitution. Notably, upon an examination of previous Supreme Court and High Court judgement, the Court also held that there was no conflict between Icomm and SK Jain . The clauses in question in those cases were on a different footing. More interestingly, what the Court picked up on was the observation in Icomm that no plea of Article 14 reasonableness was taken in SK Jain . The Court dedicated a whole section to whether the validity of a pre-deposit condition can be decided on the anvil of Article 14 and be decided in a petition to appoint an arbitrator under Section 11 of the Act. The Court held that a referral court under Section 11(6) can test an arbitration clause against Article 14 since the arbitration agreement sits below the Constitution and the 1996 Act in the grundnorm hierarchy. Party autonomy therefore cannot extend to terms that violate fundamental rights, and a contractor's consent to a pre-deposit clause at the time of contracting does not estop it from challenging that clause. Relying on Olga Tellis v. Bombay Municipal Corpn. (1985) and Basheshar Nath v. CIT (1958), the Court held that the Article 14 right cannot be waived. Discussion in Santosh Associate The starting point of the reasoning of the Court in Santosh Associate was approvingly citing from Justice Hrishikesh Roys opinion in Central Organisation for Railway Electrification (CORE) v. ECI SPIC SMO MCML (JV) (2025) concerning Section 18 of the Arbitration Act which mandates equal treatment of parties across all stages of arbitral proceedings as being mandatory and non-derogable. However, it also cited from the portion of the majority judgment in CORE which cited Lombardi to the extent of holding that party autonomy cannot be stretched to an extent where it violates fundamental rights of parties under the constitution. It found that unlike Lombardi which found no conflict between SK Jain and Icomm , Icomm indeed is in conflict with SK Jain . The Court said Icomm could not have overridden the ratio of SK Jain even though the Court was in prima facie agreement with the reasoning in Icomm . It also held that given judicial discipline, it could not hold SK Jain to be sub silentio or no longer good law. It also cited a Smt. Gangabai v. Vijay Kumar (1974) wherein the supreme court reiterated that the right to sue inheres in every individual and it is no defence to contend that there is no such right. Unlike an appeal, the maintainability of a suit requires no statutory sanction. It also said that such pre-deposit clauses fall foul of Section 28 of the Indian Contract Act, 1972 which voids any contractual stipulation that restrains parties from enforcing contractual rights by the usual proceedings in ordinary tribunals. Having said this, the Court said that it was of the view that an arbitration clause cannot impose pre-deposit conditions so onerous as to render the right to sue illusory or nugatory. A stipulation mandating the deposit of a substantial percentage of claim amount as a precondition to invoking arbitration would inevitably, suppress claims, deter recourse to ADR, and defeat its very object. Consequently, the court framed the following questions for reference to a larger bench: Whether a stipulation requiring the contractor alone to make a pre-deposit of security/fees prior to reference of disputes to arbitration is contrary to Section 18 of the Act, which mandates equal treatment of parties at all stages of arbitration Whether pre-deposit conditions in contracts having an arbitration clause discourage Alternative Dispute Resolution and undermine its objective of declogging the court system? Whether a condition of pre-deposit of security/fees prior to reference to arbitration is arbitrary and violative of the right to sue, as well as Article 14 of the Constitution and Section 28 of the Indian Contract Act, 1872? Whether a requirement of pre-deposit of security/fees has any rational relation to the object of curbing frivolous claims? At that stage it cannot be said that the claims are frivolous, and such claims may in any case be addressed through costs under Section 31(8) of the Act at the conclusion of the arbitral proceedings. Whether a pre-deposit condition is valid in an arbitration case where the deposit is refundable upon the conclusion of the arbitration proceedings? Whether S.K. Jain v. State of Haryana (2009) is a valid and binding precedent? The Supreme Courts Snowballing Doctrinal Confusion The judgment in SK Jain was pronounced in 2009, in the pre-BALCO ( Bharat Aluminium Co. v. Kaiser Aluminium Technical Services Inc. (2012)) era, when courts intervened far more in arbitration-related proceedings. After BALCO, courts have been far more hands-off in dealing with arbitration, and far more attentive to party autonomy and the equality of parties under the Arbitration Act. I postulate that SK Jain would never have upheld such a unilateral pre-deposit clause had BALCO come to pass before it. Even so, what SK Jain did well, even if its conclusion may have been wrong, was to refuse to invoke administrative and public law principles at the stage of arbitration reference. In doing so, it stated that the State is not liable to fulfil its duties in the contractual sphere in the same way it does when carrying out its sovereign and public functions. There is no doubt that the grant of tenders by public authorities can be scrutinised by courts, as it is essentially a public and sovereign function of the State. However, it would be better if the State were treated as any other private party once a public works contract is entered into, and its performance and the disputes arising from it come to be adjudicated, much like SK Jain held. The problem has been that the Supreme Court has since been reading Article 14 reasonableness and administrative law principles into the functioning of essentially private contracts when it ought not to. This is apparent not just from Icomm and Lombardi . In CORE too, where the Supreme Court held unilateral appointments of arbitrators by one disputing party impermissible, the majority opinion said that Article 14 could be read into public-private contracts. Lombardi , Icomm , and CORE invoked Article 14 in the context of arbitration, but the Supreme Court has also been allowing Article 14 to be read into the States contractual dealings more generally as well (See for example, Madras Aluminium Co. Ltd. v. T.N. SEB (2023)). Reading Constitutional Standards into the States Contracts Is Unfair to Everyone The problems with this approach are apparent on the face of it. It is fair neither to the State nor to private parties in general for Article 14 to be read into the States functions in the contractual realm. The State does exercise its commercial weight in all its contracts. It is a monopsony and can extract very favourable terms from contractors, terms which a contractor would not agree to with others in normal market conditions. If Article 14 testing were to be applied, then not only such arbitration clauses but almost every contract of a State body would be susceptible to judicial review. Article 14 invocation will upend government contracting if future judgments continue going down this path. Article 14 then becomes a blunt weapon to attack anything perceived as less than palatable in the States commercial contracts. Commercial contracts should not be interfered with in this manner. The bargain struck by the parties should be upheld. Most of the pre-deposit cases deal with one State party and one private party. What if such a pre-deposit clause were introduced in an arbitration clause between two private parties say, a private contractor and a private owner? Would the court uphold such a clause? Article 14 cannot be invoked against a private party. By giving an Article 14 justification rather than a statutory one, the courts end up creating situations where clauses may be valid not on the basis of what their content is but who the parties are. This persistent widening of constitutional principles to test and challenge anything is akin to using a bazooka to kill a mosquito, when a humble spray would have sufficed. The Solution This view is further elaborated in Justice Hrishikesh Roys dissent in CORE . Agreeing with Justice Narasimha that public law principles evolved in constitutional and administrative law should not generally be imported into arbitration law, he held that equality between the arbitrating parties must be anchored in the framework of the Arbitration Act itself, with the obligations of fair treatment grounded in Sections 12 to 15 and Section 18 of the Act. Importing constitutional principles at the Section 11 stage, in his view, would defeat the very objective of the Arbitration Act and depart from the norm of minimal judicial intervention. The solution here was simple. The humble spray referred to above would have been Section 18 of the Arbitration Act, which mandates equal treatment of parties. Had Section 18 alone been used, such pre-deposit clauses would have been outlawed simpliciter on the basis of the statute, as opposed to the Constitution, which cannot be enforced against private parties and opens a Pandoras box for the State. And even in the contractual sphere, if the fear is that the State will not perform its duties in good faith, instead of reading Article 14 reasonableness, courts can infer duties of good faith in commercial contracts. Although good faith dealing in contract law is not part of common law, following Bates v. Post Office pronounced by the English High Court in 2019, good faith dealings are being read into performance of contracts in relational contracts. Indian courts can certainly create common law for government contract dealing rather than open up avenues for constitutional challenges. The Santosh Associate judgment also refers to Section 28 of the Indian Contract Act (which declares agreements in restraint of legal proceedings void) and the common law right to sue. These are other instruments, short of the Constitution, available to courts to restrict pre-deposit clauses. The resort to Article 14 is, therefore, perplexing. Conclusion The problem with the line of cases relation to arbitration pre-deposits is apparent. To the credit of the bench in Santosh Associate , the precise questions for reference also delineate whether the validity of such pre-deposit clauses should be tested against Article 14. Given the problems delineated above in importing constitutional provisions into the arbitration and private law realm, it is hoped that the larger bench looking into this issue will be open to considering the very doctrinal basis upon which these will be tested to be valid or invalid. Justice Roys and Narasimhas opinions in CORE will be a good starting point for the larger bench, when constituted.

Seven Haryana mementos, including Paralympic gold, in 8th PM auction

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APL Forteasia Cup 2026 Begins at HR Cricket Ground in Faridabad

Faridabad (Haryana) [India], October 3: The Agrasen Premier League (APL) Forteasia Cup 2026 officially commenced today at HR Cricket Ground, Sector 95, Faridabad, with Forteasia Group coming on board as

Punjab and Haryana High Court Clerk Recruitment 2026 Notification Out - Apply Online for 1,270 Posts

The Society for Centralized Recruitment of Staff in Subordinate Courts (S.S.S.C.), under the High Court of Punjab and Haryana at Chandigarh, has released Detailed Employment Notice No. 37C/SSSC/PB/2026, dated 3 October 2026, inviting online applications on behalf of the District and Sessions Judges in the State of Punjab, for filling 1,270 posts of Clerk in the District Courts of Punjab by direct recruitment. Eligible candidates can apply online at sssc.gov.in from 7 October 2026 (4:00 PM) to 4 November 2026 (4:00 PM).

Supernova building suicide case: Victim identified as 29-year-old Gurugram resident

Digital Desk | Noida, Oct 3 (IANS) The youth who jumped to death from the 43rd floor of the Supernova building in Uttar Pradesh's Noida, has been identified by the police as 29-year-old Sambhav Jain, a resident of Gurugram in Haryana. Speaking to IANS, Additional Deputy Commissioner of Police (ADCP) (Noida Zone), Manisha Singh said: At around 11:30 a.m. today, we received information that a person committed suicide by jumping from the balcony of a room in the Supernova Spira Tower located in Noida's Sector 94, under the jurisdiction of the police station in Sector-126. Upon receiving the information, local police immediately reached the spot and identified the individual as Sambhav Jain, aged around 29 years, originally a resident of Manesar in Haryana's Gurugram, she added. The senior police officer said that the victim's family members have been informed. Investigators are collecting evidence from the site. The body has been sent for post-mortem, Singh added. Police said that further investigation in the case is underway. Meanwhile, according to preliminary information received earlier, the impact of the fall was such that the victim's body was severed into two pieces. A sound resembling a bomb blast was reportedly heard in the complex due to the impact of the fall. According to reports, the young man who committed suicide was staying at Supernova's AIR BNB. Meanwhile, a video showing the man jumping from the building has gone viral on social media. The identity and reason for the suicide have not yet been revealed. Police are currently investigating the matter. However, according to media reports quoting an AC mechanic who tried to stop the man from jumping, the youth allegedly committed suicide after saying that he was depressed. However, this has not been independently verified. The video of the suicide that was taken by the horrified residents below has gone viral. In another case of suicide reported last month, a first-year MCA student hanged himself in his room in Sector Alpha-2, under the jurisdiction of the Beta-2 Police Station in Greater Noida. He had reportedly moved to Noida about a month prior to the incident and was pursuing his first-year MCA course through online classes.

Gurugram man ends life in Noida due to financial distress

The deceased was identified as Sambhav Jain, a resident of Manesar in the Gurugram district of Haryana

Gurugram man ends life in Noida due to financial distress

The deceased was identified as Sambhav Jain, a resident of Manesar in the Gurugram district of Haryana

Aman Sehrawat Stuns World Champion, Wins Asian Games 2026 Gold In 57kg Wrestling

The 23-year-old Haryana wrestler defeated North Koreas Han Chong Song 11-7 to clinch the mens freestyle 57kg gold medal.

Asian Games: Kirti Sharma recounts tense final after Indias historic recurve women's team gold

Digital Desk | Nagoya, Oct 3 (IANS) Indias womens recurve archery team produced a historic upset at the Asian Games 2026, defeating South Korea 5-3 in the final to end the Korean powerhouses 44-year dominance in the event. Kirti Sharma, who teamed up with Ankita Bhakat and Kumkum Mohod in the gold-medal winning trio on Friday, said the Indian archers relied on their process and mental composure to negotiate a high-pressure final. We were not thinking about our opponents. We were just focused on our own performance and following the process we went through during training, Kirti Sharma told SAI media in Japan. The Indian team had earlier produced another statement victory in the semifinals, defeating China 5-1 to set up a final against South Korea. Kirti said controlling their emotions and maintaining faith in each other proved crucial as India attempted to break South Koreas long-standing hold over the Asian Games event. All three of us had to control our emotions and believed in each other. We didnt think about the results and just gave our 100 percent, she added. The Hazaribagh-based archer, who hails from Haryana and trains under coach Udham Singh at the SAI training centre in Hazaribagh, said the Indian trio were aware that even a small lapse could change the complexion of the contest. We knew that our opponents can take the game away if we commit even a small mistake. But we stood strong and maintained the same intensity from the first arrow that we fired to the last one, Kirti said. Indias victory came after the countrys compound archers had already made a major impact at the Games, winning the mens, womens and mixed team gold medals at the Okazaki Chuo Sogo Park. Kirti said that unprecedented success had provided additional motivation to the recurve squad before their own competition began. Our confidence took a big boost after the compound events. The day we won three consecutive gold medals was a lucky day for India. It motivated us a lot. We wanted to emulate their feat, she said. We were raring to go and could hardly wait for our event to start. The victory over South Korea marked a significant moment in the Asian Games history of womens recurve archery, with India overcoming the continental powerhouse in a final that demanded both consistency and composure. For Kirti, Ankita and Kumkum, the gold also added to a memorable day for Indian archery, which had already established itself as one of the countrys strongest medal-winning disciplines at the Games.

Weather tomorrow: IMD forecasts rain, thunderstorms in 10 states; Delhi-NCR, Haryana, Chandigarh, UP likely to remain dry

Haryana STF arrests wanted man in Abohar businessman murder case

Haryana BJP MLAs to meet PM Modi in Delhi amid SIR row, Punjab polls

The Opposition's vote theft allegations against Gyanesh Kumar gained momentum following a media report claiming differences within the poll panel

PM Modi to meet Haryana CM Saini, BJP MLAs in Delhi today

Digital Desk | New Delhi, Oct 3 (IANS) All BJP MLAs from Haryana, including Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini and state BJP President Archana Gupta, are scheduled to meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi in New Delhi on Saturday. The meeting is expected to take place in the evening and is likely to focus on key political and organisational issues concerning Haryana and the neighbouring states. According to the sources, discussions are expected to include preparations and the political situation ahead of the upcoming Punjab Assembly elections, as well as the Opposition's narrative around the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls. The meeting assumes significance as the BJP continues to review its organisational preparedness and electoral strategy in poll-bound states. The party leadership is also expected to discuss how its state units should respond to the Opposition's allegations and campaign on SIR. The interaction with the Prime Minister is also likely to provide an opportunity for the party leadership to take feedback from Haryana legislators on political and organisational issues and discuss the BJP's preparations for upcoming electoral challenges. The meeting comes against the backdrop of the Opposition INDIA Bloc's offensive against the Election Commission of India (ECI) and Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Gyanesh Kumar over the SIR issue. Earlier on Friday, AAP leaders and workers, who were detained during a protest at the national capital's Jantar Mantar and were brought to the Fatehpur Beri Police Station in south Delhi, asserted that they were ot afraid of the police while demanding CEC Gyanesh Kumar's resignation. The Opposition's vote theft allegations against Gyanesh Kumar gained momentum following a media report claiming differences within the poll panel. Meanwhile, as per the recent organisational reshuffle in the BJP, former Union Minister Smriti Irani has replaced Satish Poonia as the party's Haryana in-charge. This comes at a time when the BJP has intensified its political activities in Punjab, with the drug menace emerging as one of its principal campaign issues ahead of the Assembly elections. The party has been targeting the ruling Aam Aadmi Party government over its handling of the drug problem, law and order and the security situation in the state.

Enforcement Directorate Conducts Major Raids in

The Enforcement Directorate has seized 4.30 crore in cash and frozen 22 crore in bank accounts during raids linked to a 645 crore embezzlement case. Enforcement Directorate Conducts Major Raids in 645 Crore Embezzlement Case in Haryana

2 Haryana State Pollution Control Board officers suspended after CM review

City ranks 4th in Haryana for PM2.5, PM10 pollution in Sept

Haryana DGP orders multi-pronged crackdown on drug networks and gangsters

BJP government made Haryana number one in drugs, corruption, crime: Hooda

Haryana CM Nayab Singh Saini to visit Singapore from October 4-6

Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini will undertake a significant three-day visit to Singapore from October 4 to October 6. The objective of the visit is to explore and give concrete shape to new opportunities for investment, industrial cooperation, technological partnerships and skill development between Haryana and Singapore. During his visit, the Chief Minister will discuss possibilities for cooperation and investment in key sectors including logistics, semiconductors, advanced manufacturing, agro and food processing, Global Capability Centres (GCCs), aviation and education. The State Government aims to position Haryana as an increasingly investor-friendly, competitive and innovation-driven industrial destination for global investors. During the Singapore visit, the Chief Minister will participate in round-table conferences with various reputed industry groups, investors, corporate representatives and sector-specific experts. These meetings will highlight Haryana's industrial po...

ED searches TDI Group premises in Manesar land scam probe

Digital Desk | Chandigarh, Oct 2 (IANS) The Directorate of Enforcement (ED), Chandigarh Zonal Office, has conducted search operations at business and residential premises linked to Ravinder Taneja, Chairperson of the TDI Group and Managing Director of several group companies, in connection with the ongoing Gurgaon (Manesar) land scam investigation under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), 2002. The searches were conducted as part of the money laundering investigation arising from a first information report (FIR) registered by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI). The TDI Group has been under investigation in the case over its alleged transactions with Atul Bansal and the ABWIL-led group of companies during the period under scrutiny. According to the ED, the investigation has revealed that more than 400 acres of state-notified land in Manesar, Naurangpur and Lakhnoula villages, earmarked for acquisition in 2007, were allegedly purchased by private builders and intermediaries from farmers at low prices due to apprehensions of acquisition by the Haryana State Industrial and Infrastructure Development Corporation (HSIIDC). The agency alleged that the land acquisition process was subsequently allowed to lapse, the acquisition award was dropped, and the land was later sold at substantially higher prices, resulting in significant profits. The ED stated that the role of the TDI Group, led by Ravinder Taneja, has been identified as that of one such intermediary in the alleged transactions. According to the investigation, during the land acquisition period between 2005 and 2007, the TDI Group allegedly used three companies, namely Indo Asian Construction Co. Pvt. Ltd., NCR Properties Pvt. Ltd. and Divya Jyoti Enterprises Pvt. Ltd., to purchase nearly 33 acres of land from farmers and subsequently sell it to the Atul Bansal group at a profit. During the searches, which continued for more than three days at locations in New Delhi and Mohali, officials reportedly recovered records related to alleged irregularities and illegalities in other projects, which are being examined further. The ED stated that dozens of project records, files, digital devices, computers, hard disks, servers and luxury vehicles identified as alleged proceeds of crime were seized during the search operations. The agency said examination of the seized records, assets and financial affairs of TDI Group companies is under way and will form part of the ongoing investigation.

Hooda: BJP Made Haryana Number One In Drugs, Crime

Former Haryana Chief Minister Bhupinder Singh Hooda criticised the BJP government, alleging that the state has fallen from its top position in development to being number one in drugs, corruption, and crime. He claimed the BJP has not made any public interest decisions in 12 years and accused them of deteriorating Haryana's economic condition and allowing criminal gangs to flourish.

Ex-Haryana CM Bhupinder Singh Hooda questions poll turnout revisions, alleges vote theft; demands CECs resignation

Indian Farmer Group Exports 24 Tonnes Of Frozen Foods To Canada

Indian farmer groups are gaining a new route to international markets, with 24 metric tonnes of frozen food products from Haryana being shipped to Canada with support from the Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA).

Ritu Sheoran Honored in Charkhi Dadri After Asian Games Gold Medal Win

Ritu Sheoran, Asian Games gold medalist, was honored by Haryanas minister in Charkhi Dadri for her kabaddi success. Ritu Sheoran Honored in Charkhi Dadri After Asian Games Gold Medal Win

Haryana CM suspends two HSPCB Regional Officers over public grievances during Gurugram review meeting

Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini took strict action during a comprehensive review meeting on Gurugram's development projects on Friday, suspending two Regional Officers of the Haryana State Pollution Control Board (HSPCB) following persistent complaints from Resident Welfare Associations (RWAs). The suspended officials included Akanksha, Regional Officer (Gurugram North), and Mukul Kumar, Regional Officer (Gurugram South). As per the Haryana State Pollution Control Board order, during suspension, their headquarters will be at Haryana State Pollution Control Board, Head Office, Sector-6, Panchkula. They will be entitled to subsistence allowance as per rules. Emphasising accountability in governance, Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini said, The meeting involved a detailed discussion regarding development works, amenities for citizens, and public grievances. It has always been my belief that the government should not limit itself merely to files and meetings. Underlining h...

Haryana Clears Elevated Road Between Hero Honda Chowk And Umang Bhardwaj Chowk In Gurugram, GMDA To Execute Project

NHAI Readies Rs 980 Crore Plan For Elevated MG Road Corridor From Haryana Border To Delhi's Andheria Morh

Kirti's story: From paddy fields to Asian Games gold

The Indian women's recurve archery team, featuring Haryana's Kirti Sharma, secured a historic gold medal at the Asian Games by defeating South Korea. Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini lauded their achievement, while Kirti's family in Jind expressed immense pride, sharing their struggles and hopes for an Olympic gold.

Haryana CM Launches GVP-Free Campaign in Gurugram, Urges Public Participation in Cleanliness Drive

Haryanas CM Nayab Singh Saini inaugurated the GVP-Free Campaign in Gurugram, urging citizens to contribute to cleanliness efforts. Haryana CM Launches GVP-Free Campaign in Gurugram, Urges Public Participation in Cleanliness Drive

Yuzvendra Chahal Retires From First-class Cricket, Vows To Continue Playing White-ball Formats

Syed Mushtaq Ali T20 Trophy: Veteran Indian leg-spinner Yuzvendra Chahal on Friday announced his retirement from first-class cricket, acknowledging that his long-cherished dream of earning a Test cap was no longer within reach, while adding that he remains committed to competing in white-ball formats. Chahal, who has represented India in 72 ODIs and 80 T20Is, never got the opportunity to don the Test whites despite a 17-year career in domestic and county circuits. His last international appearance came during a T20I against the West Indies in August 2023. The first cricket ball I ever held was a red ball. I was 10 years old, and I had no idea then how deeply I would fall in love with this game. For me, red-ball cricket was never just another format. It was where I learned the meaning of patience, character, resilience and the pure joy of being out there for hours, fighting for every run and every wicket. I played my last First-Class match at Lords, saying these words is emotional as a Test cap was always a dream, one that I carried with me for many years. It may not have happened, but I am genuinely content with the journey I have had and incredibly grateful for every opportunity that came my way in this format. The red ball gave me some of the most beautiful memories of my life, and nothing will ever take that away, wrote Chahal in a post on his Instagram account on Friday. Having made his first-class debut for Haryana back in 2009, Chahal finishes his red-ball career with 148 wickets in 49 matches at an average of 32.27. At the same time, Chahal, a member of India winning the 2024 Mens T20 World Cup, made it clear that he has no intention of hanging up his boots in limited-overs cricket, declaring that, But I AM NOT DONE YET. The hunger to play for my country is still very much alive. I believe I have the cricket left in me, and I will give everything I have to earn another opportunity in the One-Day and T20 formats. A special thank you to the Haryana Cricket Association, Mr. Ranbir Singh Mahindra Sir and Mr. Anirudh Singh Chaudhary Sir for their continuous support, trust and belief throughout my journey. From a 10-year-old holding his first red ball to playing his final First-Class game, it has been one hell of a journey, added Chahal. While Chahal was rarely a red-ball regular for Haryana, his standout Ranji Trophy season came way back in the 2016/17 season with 33 wickets in seven outings, his final first-class stint saw him shine for Northamptonshire in Division Two of the 2026 County Championship. He picked up 21 wickets at an average of 16.14, the second-best average for any bowler with 20-plus wickets. Chahals final first-class match ended in a seven-wicket loss to Middlesex, which ended Northamptonshire's promotion bid. Though sidelined from national selection in recent times, Chahal, IPLs leading wicket-taker, has maintained his white-ball pedigree. While Chahal was rarely a red-ball regular for Haryana, his standout Ranji Trophy season came way back in the 2016/17 season with 33 wickets in seven outings, his final first-class stint saw him shine for Northamptonshire in Division Two of the 2026 County Championship. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS

FPO-led food exports from Haryana to Canada open new market opportunities for farmers

Farmer Producer Organisations (FPOs) are gaining greater access to international markets as export-oriented value chains expand, with a 24-metric-tonne consignment of frozen food products from Haryana being shipped to Canada, the Ministry of Commerce and Industry said in a press release. The consignment was flagged off from Sonipat on October 1 and was exported by Aterna Foods Producer Company Limited. The shipment, valued at CAD 35,140, comprises 2,295 boxes of frozen food products, including green peas, mixed vegetables, peas and carrots, sweet corn and samosas. The Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) facilitated the export and supported the exporting unit under its Financial Assistance Scheme. The shipment is aimed at expanding international market opportunities for Indian processed food products while connecting FPOs with overseas buyers. The export also highlights the role of FPOs in building export-oriented agricultural value chains, part...

Indias frozen food products head for Canada

Digital Desk | New Delhi, Oct 2 (IANS) The Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) has facilitated the dispatch of a consignment of 24 metric tonnes of frozen food products from Sonipat in Haryana to Canada, according to a statement issued by the Commerce Ministry on Friday. The Farmer Producer Organisations (FPO)-led export consignment includes green peas, mixed vegetables, peas and carrots, sweet corn and samosa, among other products. The shipment, exported by Aterna Foods Producer Company Limited, comprises 2,295 boxes of frozen food products with a total shipment value of 35,140 Canadian dollars. The exporting unit was supported by APEDA under its Financial Assistance Scheme, according to an official statement. The shipment marks another step towards expanding international market opportunities for Indian processed food products and connecting FPOs with global buyers and markets. The export highlights the growing role of FPOs in developing export-oriented value chains and enabling farmers to access international markets. APEDA has been facilitating linkages between FPOs and exporters through initiatives aimed at strengthening market access and connecting farmer groups with export opportunities. By linking agricultural produce with processing and international markets, the FPO-led model can support improved returns for producers and strengthen the participation of farmer groups in the export value chain. While flagging off the exports, APEDA Chairman Abhishek Dev congratulated the exporter and stakeholders, noting that the direct export by the FPO would significantly enhance value realisation for producers. He also acknowledged NIFTEMs valuable contribution and expressed optimism about expanding exports to the Canadian market. APEDA, under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, continues to facilitate market linkages and export opportunities for Indian agricultural and processed food products while supporting the integration of farmer groups into global value chains, the statement added. The exports also come at a time of improved India-Canada relations after the new government led by Mark Carney came to power in Canada. This makes it more important for Canada to promote trade with other partners such as India.

CJP alleges volunteers detained across Haryana ahead of CM Sainis Hisar visit

CJP leader Sudhir Sangwan says volunteers were picked up without notice after the party extended support to students protesting the Common Eligibility Test

PM Modi pays tribute to Mahatma Gandhi at Rajghat, former PM Lal Bahadur Shastri at Vijay Ghat on birth anniversaries

New Delhi , October 2 : Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday paid tribute to Mahatma Gandhi at Rajghat on the occasion of his 157th birth anniversary, as leaders and citizens across the country observed Gandhi Jayanti and remembered his message of peace, non-violence and cleanliness. PM Modi reached Rajghat and attended the Sarva-Dharma Prarthana held at Gandhi's samadhi to mark the birth anniversary of the Father of the Nation. Prime Minister Narendra Modi also paid tribute to former Prime Minister Lal Bahadur Shastri at Vijay Ghat on the occasion of his birth anniversary. Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta also attended the Sarva-Dharma Prarthana at Rajghat and paid tribute to Mahatma Gandhi. CM Gupta also paid tribute to former PM Lal Bahadur Shastri at Vijay Ghat. Delhi Lieutenant Governor Taranjit Singh Sandhu, Union Minister Manohar Lal Khattar, Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla, and Vice President CP Radhakrishnan also paid floral tributes to Mahatma Gandhi at Rajghat on the occasion. In Jaipur, Rajasthan Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma paid floral tributes to Mahatma Gandhi at the Rajasthan Secretariat. He also paid tribute to former Prime Minister Lal Bahadur Shastri on his birth anniversary. In Gurugram, Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini participated in the Swachh Bharat Abhiyan and appealed to people to keep the city clean. In Vijayawada, Andhra Pradesh, a Swachhathon 2026 event was organised on the occasion of Gandhi Jayanti as part of the Swachhata Hi Seva programme. On the eve of Gandhi Jayanti, President Droupadi Murmu paid tribute to Mahatma Gandhi and said his message of peace and non-violence holds vital relevance amid ongoing global conflicts. On behalf of all citizens, I pay my respectful tribute to the Father of the Nation, Mahatma Gandhi, on his 157th birth anniversary, celebrated as Gandhi Jayanti, the President said in her message. According to a release, Murmu said Gandhi's life and ideals are widely respected by the global community and noted that an atmosphere of war and conflict prevails in many parts of the world, affecting all nations. In these circumstances, Mahatma Gandhi's message of peace and non-violence becomes even more relevant, she said. The President said India is advancing towards the national goal of becoming Viksit Bharat by 2047, with priority being given to the values of empathy and inclusion to ensure that no citizen is deprived of the benefits of development. She said the vision reflects the spirit of Mahatma Gandhi's ideal of 'Sarvodaya', based on the principle of the welfare and upliftment of all. On the auspicious occasion of Gandhi Jayanti, let us reaffirm our commitment to building an empowered, developed and Atmanirbhar Bharat through our ethical conduct and active participation, Murmu said. Meanwhile, Union Minister for Coal and Mines G Kishan Reddy called for a nationwide 30-day cleanliness drive from Gandhi Jayanti on October 2 to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel's birth anniversary on October 31. Speaking to the media, Reddy urged citizens, government and private institutions, educational establishments, NGOs and other organisations to participate in the cleanliness campaign. From Gandhi Jayanti to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel's birth anniversary, which is coming up on October 31st, for almost 30 days, everyone should take up this Swachh Bharat campaign program across the country, and an appeal has been made for everyone in the country to become participants, Reddy said. Mahatma Gandhi, also known as Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi, was born on October 2, 1869, in Porbandar, Gujarat. Gandhi Jayanti is observed annually on his birth anniversary. October 2 is also observed as the International Day of Non-Violence after the United Nations designated the day to spread the message of non-violence associated with Gandhi's philosophy. India is also observing the 122nd birth anniversary of former Prime Minister Lal Bahadur Shastri on October 2. Born on October 2, 1904, in Mughalsarai, Uttar Pradesh, Shastri served as the Prime Minister of India from 1964 to 1966. He is remembered for the slogan Jai Jawan, Jai Kisan and for his contributions during the 1965 India-Pakistan war, as well as his emphasis on self-reliance and support for the agricultural sector.

Weather Today, October 2: Rain, thunderstorms likely in several states; check Delhi, Himachal Pradesh, Rajasthan and other cities

Weather Today: Today, various regions across India will be affected by rain, thunderstorms, and lightning, appearing as a stark contrast to the clear and dry weather found in places like Delhi, Himachal Pradesh, Rajasthan, and Jammu and Kashmir. Meanwhile, areas such as Bihar, Chandigarh, and Haryana are expected to remain dry without any warnings from the India Meteorological Department until October 5, indicating diverse weather patterns throughout the nation.

Stop handwritten test reports, govt hospitals and labs told in Haryana

Congress to Launch Nationwide Campaign Demanding Resignation of Chief Election Commissioner

Congress plans a campaign from October 2-8 to demand the resignation of the Chief Election Commissioner amid allegations of electoral misconduct in Haryana. Congress to Launch Nationwide Campaign Demanding Resignation of Chief Election Commissioner

HC to Haryana: Accept sports varsity VCs resignation, appoint successor by Oct 31

MC reshuffle likely as joint commissioner returns to Haryana

4 years on, Haryana govt revives push to clear Aravali encroachments