Meaningful Dialogue: PM Modi Meets Haryana BJP MLAs
BJP President Nitin Nabin, Haryana Chief Minister Naib Singh Saini, and BJP national general secretary in-charge of Haryana Smriti Irani attended the meeting.
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
The News Mill
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).
Pushkar Singh Dhami Meets Haryana Youths Visiting Uttarakhand
Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami met a group of youths from Haryana during their three-day visit to Uttarakhand. The youths shared their experiences and appreciated the state governments efforts in connectivity, tourism, homestays, solar energy, border-area development and welfare schemes.
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.
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
Haryana CM and BJP Legislators to Meet PM Modi in New Delhi
Haryanas Chief Minister and BJP leaders will discuss political strategies with PM Modi in New Delhi, focusing on upcoming elections. Haryana CM and BJP Legislators to Meet PM Modi in New Delhi
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
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.
Haryana CM orders Gurugram development plan, suspends officials over grievance
Digital Desk | Gurugram, Oct 2 (IANS) Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini on Friday directed officials to prepare comprehensive development plans for Gurugram in view of the citys rapid expansion and future requirements, while also ordering action against officials over complaints received through public grievance channels. Taking cognisance of a complaint regarding the improper functioning of a sewage treatment plant (STP) operated by a builder, the Chief Minister directed the suspension of both Regional Pollution Control Officers concerned. Saini said negligence or incorrect reporting in the disposal of citizens grievances would not be tolerated and that strict action would be taken after fixing responsibility. The Chief Minister was chairing a review meeting on development works being undertaken in Gurugram district at the local PWD Rest House. He directed officials to prepare development plans for Gurugram, keeping in mind the city's future growth, and ensure their implementation within a fixed timeframe. Saini said Gurugram should be developed as a modern and well-planned city equipped with adequate civic amenities. He emphasised the need to strengthen existing infrastructure while properly assessing future requirements. The Chief Minister stressed the importance of better roads and traffic management, adequate drinking water supply, modern residential and commercial facilities, clean and developed markets, expansion of green belts and parks, and stronger facilities related to sports, recreation and citizen safety. Saini directed that the waste collection system in Gurugram be made more effective and said a special campaign should be launched to ensure regular and systematic waste collection across the city. He said keeping the city clean and attractive was not only the responsibility of the administration but also a collective moral responsibility. The Chief Minister instructed officials to work proactively and take preventive measures instead of waiting for problems to arise. He directed that a clear timeline be fixed for the campaign, with a daily action plan prepared and regularly reviewed to accelerate implementation. Reviewing the disposal of legacy waste at the Bandhwari landfill site, Saini directed officials to expedite the work in accordance with prescribed timelines. He instructed the executing agency to set clear targets, ensure their completion within the stipulated period and maintain continuous monitoring. The Municipal Commissioner of Gurugram informed the meeting that the disposal of legacy waste at Bandhwari was targeted for completion by the end of February 2027, one month ahead of the prescribed deadline of March 2027. The Chief Minister directed officials to maintain the pace of work and ensure effective monitoring so that the target could be achieved ahead of schedule.
India exports 1 tonne of Bihar's makhana to Greece
India has successfully exported 1 tonne of makhana from Purnea to Greece and 24 tonnes of frozen food products from Sonipat to Canada. These shipments are part of India's efforts to expand its overseas market for agricultural commodities. The commerce ministry highlights that Bihar produces about 80-85% of the country's makhana. The frozen food shipment from Haryana includes items like green peas and samosas.
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.
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 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...
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.
Sujeet Kalkal Wins Asian Games 2026 Gold in 65kg Freestyle
With a minute and 40 seconds left on the clock at the Nagoya City Inae Sports Centre, Sujeet Kalkal was staring at a 2-9 deficit and a silver medal. Eleven seconds from the end, the 23-year-old from Haryana had the gold. The Indian freestyle wrestler beat Tajikistans Abdulmazhid Kudiev 10-9 in the mens 65kg final, [] The post Sujeet Kalkal Wins Asian Games 2026 Gold in 65kg Freestyle appeared first on Pragativadi I Latest Odisha News in English I Breaking News .
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
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
Haryana CM Nayab Singh Saini inaugurates agriculture fair, honours 45 farmers
The News Mill
From what is allowed to what is prohibited: Land use may be reset in Haryana
CCTVs now must at child care centres in Haryana
Haryana Registers 377,987 New Voter Applications Ahead of Final Voter List Release
Haryanas new voter registrations reach 377,987, with the final voter list set to be released on November 6. Haryana Registers 377,987 New Voter Applications Ahead of Final Voter List Release
CISF mourns loss of four personnel, last rites held with full honours
New Delhi [India], October 1: The Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) on Thursday mourned the loss of four of its personnel posted at the Sewa-III Hydro Electric Project, Mashka, Basohli, Kathua, Jammu and Kashmir, who lost their lives on September 29 in an incident of fratricide. Their last rites were performed on Thursday at their native places with full honours and in keeping with laid-down procedure. Late Assistant Commandant Ankit Kumar Pandey, posted with CISF Unit NTPC Tanda, joined the Force on October 3, 2015. His last rites were performed at his native place, Mathiya Daulatpur in Ambedkarnagar district of Uttar Pradesh, according to the release. Senior officers, including DIG Manish Kumar Singh and the Deputy Commandant of CISF Unit, National Thermal Power Corporation (NTPC), Tanda, were present along with personnel of the Unit and paid homage on behalf of the Force. Late Sub Inspector Laxman Singh, posted with CISF Unit Punjab and Haryana Civil Secretariat (P&HCS), Chandigarh, joined the Force on August 9, 2013, and had served CISF for over 13 years. His last rites were held with full honours at Village Loona in Solan district of Himachal Pradesh from 0830 to 1030 hours. Personnel of CISF Unit, P&HCS, Chandigarh, attended the ceremony and paid homage on behalf of the Force. Late Constable Sanjeev Kumar, posted with CISF Unit SEWA HE Project, joined the Force on October 29, 2013. His last rites were performed at 1030 hours at his native Village Rameen, Makhyaan, PO Chowki Choura, Jammu district, Jammu and Kashmir. Personnel of CISF Unit, Salal Hydro Electric Project (SHEP), attended the ceremony and paid homage on behalf of the Force. Late Constable Md Rafiq, posted with CISF Unit DHEP Dulhasti, joined the Force on March 8, 2010, and had served CISF for over 16 years. His last rites were held with full honours at 1030 hours at Village Kandali in Doda district of Jammu and Kashmir, with a Guard of Honour and ceremonial salute, in the presence of family members, relatives and colleagues. Personnel of CISF Unit, Dulhasti Hydro Electric Project (DHEP), paid homage on behalf of the Force. The CISF said it grieves with the families, colleagues and friends of the departed personnel and considers it a solemn duty to stand by the bereaved families in this hour of grief. The Force said it shares their sorrow as one family and assured them of all possible support and assistance, in accordance with the rules, in the days ahead. (ANI)
Cong MP to Shah: Why no drug-free deadline for Haryana?
Milkman to Medalist: Nitesh Siwach's Inspiring Asian Games Feat
Nitesh Siwach, a 23-year-old Greco-Roman wrestler from Haryana, secured a silver medal at the Asian Games in Japan. His journey is remarkable, having worked as a milkman for two years after a knee operation before returning to wrestling. He hopes for Greco-Roman wrestling to be included in the Pro Wrestling League.
Pinjra Tod reaches MDU in Haryanas Rohtak, 11 years after campaign began in Delhi
NHAI rolls out Tamil Nadus first barrierless Multi-Lane Free Flow Tolling System
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Oct 1 (IANS) National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has rolled out Tamil Nadus first Multi-Lane Free Flow (MLFF) based tolling system at Paranur Toll Plaza on the Tambaram Tindivanam Section of NH-179B, an official statement said on Thursday. The MLFF system introduces barrier-less tolling, enabling vehicles to pass through toll locations without stopping, the statement from Ministry of Road Transport & Highways The system leverages advanced technologies such as Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) and FASTag-based Electronic Toll Collection for efficient toll operations. MLFF eliminated the need for vehicles to stop at toll plazas, significantly reducing human intervention in the toll collection system. The system cuts down congestion, improves travel time, enhances fuel efficiency and lower vehicular emissions on National Highways. NHAI is implementing MLFF based tolling at various National Highways across the country in a phased manner. MLFF tolling system has been successful at Chorayasi Toll Plaza on SuratBharuch section of NH-48 in Gujarat; Mundka-Bakkarwala Toll Plaza on the Urban Extension Road-II (UER-II) in Delhi-NCR; Shahjahanpur, Daulatpura and Manoharpura Toll Plaza on DelhiJaipur section of NH-48 in Rajasthan; and Gharaunda Toll Plaza on the PanipatJalandhar section of National Highway-44 in Haryana. National Highway users are required to maintain functional FASTag with sufficient balance to avoid Electronic Notice (E-Notice) for a seamless MLFF experience, the statement noted. FASTag Annual Pass has crossed the significant milestone of one crore since its launch on August 15 last year. The pass is applicable for all non-commercial vehicles with a valid FASTag. The annual pass gets activated on the existing FASTag linked to the vehicle after payment of one-time fee payment through Rajmargyatra App. The Annual Pass eliminates the need to frequently recharge FASTag through one-time fee payment of Rs 3,075 for one year validity or 200 toll plaza crossings.
Haryana Leaders Honored at Farewell Ceremony in Panchkula
Haryanas outgoing BJP leaders received accolades for their contributions at a farewell ceremony attended by Chief Minister Saini. Haryana Leaders Honored at Farewell Ceremony in Panchkula
Gurugram Metro Phase 2: Haryana clears 1,662 crore civil works package
The second phase will extend the Gurugram Metro from Sector 9 to Cyber City, linking major residential and commercial hubs and providing interchanges with Rapid Metro and Namo Bharat
Indias first indigenous hydrogen-powered train could soon be extended to Delhi after seeing limited passenger traffic on its existing 89-km Jind-Sonipat route in Haryana.
Haryana Approves Rs 1,662-Crore Civil Works Tender For Gurugram Metro Phase 2
Delhi Police bust interstate cryptocurrency fraud syndicate; three arrested
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Oct 1 (IANS) The Cyber Police Station of Delhi's South District has busted an interstate cyber-fraud network involved in Telegram-based task and cryptocurrency investment fraud, arresting three accused persons from Udham Singh Nagar in Uttarakhand, police said on Thursday. According to police, the case came to light after a complainant reported being cheated of Rs 7,86,300 in a Telegram-based task and cryptocurrency investment fraud. The complainant allegedly came in contact with the fraudsters through a Telegram group, where he was induced to undertake online tasks and invest money in cryptocurrency with the promise of substantial returns. Believing their representations, the complainant transferred Rs 7,86,300 in two instalments of Rs 4,66,300 and Rs 3,20,000, as directed by the accused, police said. However, the accused neither provided the promised returns nor returned the invested amount and subsequently stopped responding to the complainant. Following the complaint, e-FIR No. 0149/2025 under Sections 318(4), 319 and 340 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) was registered at Police Station Cyber South, and an investigation was initiated. The police team comprised Sub-Inspector Raj Kumar Singh, Head Constable Sunil Kumar Bairwa and HC Rajkumar Bairwa, under the leadership of Inspector Hansraj Swami, SHO, PS Cyber South, and the supervision of ACP/Operations Balram Singh Beniwal. During the investigation, technical and financial analyses were conducted to trace the flow of fraudulent funds. Police identified several mule bank accounts allegedly used to route the proceeds of the cyber fraud. An amount of Rs 4.66 lakh was traced to one mule account, while another account had received Rs 5.22 lakh. Based on the investigation, the accused Karan Biswas and Mohit Sarkar alias Monu were traced and arrested in Udham Singh Nagar. Further investigation led to the formal arrest of Vinay Mandal, who was already in custody in connection with another cyber-fraud case registered at the Cyber Crime Police Station in Rohtak, Haryana. He was subsequently taken on a three-day police custody remand. Police said the accused operated Telegram-based task and cryptocurrency investment schemes to lure victims into transferring money. Mule bank accounts were allegedly arranged through intermediaries on commission and used to receive, route and withdraw the fraudulent funds. The proceeds were also allegedly utilised for cryptocurrency transactions, including through USDT. The police recovered two mobile phones, one Canara Bank passbook and relevant digital and financial evidence from the accused. According to police, Karan Biswas and Mohit Sarkar have no previous criminal involvement, while Vinay Mandal was previously involved in FIR No. 148/25 registered at the Cyber Crime Police Station in Rohtak, Haryana. Police said the investigation resulted in the identification and arrest of three alleged members of the network and uncovered the use of mule accounts to route cyber-fraud proceeds. Further investigation is underway.
Dry weather to persist in Delhi with cooler nights ahead; AQI remains moderate
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Oct 1 (IANS) The weather in the national capital has turned quite dry, with bright sunshine keeping daytime temperatures warm. However, a slight drop in night temperatures is likely. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted clear skies throughout the coming week, with no possibility of rain in Delhi. Bright sunshine was observed across most parts of Delhi from Wednesday morning. However, with northwesterly winds prevailing over the region, the weather has become increasingly dry. The maximum temperature at Delhi's standard observatory at Safdarjung was recorded at 34.2 degrees Celsius, which was 0.5 degrees below normal. The minimum temperature was recorded at 22.4 degrees Celsius. The IMD has said that the southwest monsoon season had ended with a 13 per cent rainfall deficit. However, monsoon rains continue to withdraw from different parts of the country. As the monsoon retreats, parts of southern and northeastern India are expected to receive rainfall on Thursday, according to the IMD. Heavy rainfall is very likely at isolated places over Kerala, South Interior Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Puducherry and Karaikal. In IMD's terminology, 'isolated' refers to rainfall occurring over a small proportion of locations, generally up to 25 per cent of weather stations in a region. Meanwhile, Kerala, coastal Karnataka and the southern parts of Karnataka are expected to receive rainfall at several places on Thursday. Tamil Nadu, Puducherry and Lakshadweep are likely to receive rain at a few places. Karnataka has already experienced a wet spell during the 24 hours ending at 8:30 a.m. on Wednesday. Kibbanahalli in Tumakuru district recorded 10 cm of rainfall, the highest recorded by the IMD during the period. Thunderstorms, lightning and gusty winds of 40-50 kmph are very likely at isolated places over Kerala and Mahe, Rayalaseema, and Tamil Nadu, Puducherry and Karaikal. Winds of 30-40 kmph are expected over Andhra Pradesh, Interior Karnataka and Odisha, while strong surface winds may also prevail over parts of Andhra Pradesh. In the Northeast, thunderstorms and lightning are likely over Assam and Meghalaya, as well as Nagaland, Manipur, Mizoram and Tripura. Similar conditions are also expected over East Madhya Pradesh. Scattered rainfall is likely over Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Meghalaya, Nagaland, Manipur, Mizoram and Tripura. The southwest monsoon normally begins withdrawing from northwest India in mid-September and completely retreats from the country by mid-October. This year, the withdrawal line currently passes through Gurdaspur (Punjab), Chandigarh, Muzaffarnagar (Uttar Pradesh), Aligarh (UP), Dholpur, Udaipur and Deesa (Rajasthan) before extending to Naliya in Gujarat. The IMD said conditions are likely to become favourable over the next two to three days for the withdrawal of the monsoon from the remaining parts of Punjab, Haryana, Rajasthan and Uttar Pradesh. Similar conditions are expected to develop over most parts of Gujarat and Madhya Pradesh, as well as the entirety of Jammu and Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand. Some parts of Bihar, Jharkhand, Chhattisgarh and Maharashtra may also witness further withdrawal. Meanwhile, Delhi's air quality remained in the moderate category, with several monitoring stations recording elevated pollution levels. The AQI readings included Mandir Marg (150), Aya Nagar (135), CRRI Mathura Road (198), Pusa (22), Sirifort (171), IGI Airport T3 (155), Commonwealth Sports Complex (179), IIT Delhi (249), Anand Vihar (98), Najafgarh (144), Jahangirpuri (207), Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium (173), Sonia Vihar (151), Cantonment Area (106) and Narela (189).
Deficient rainfall in Punjab, Haryana & HP; Oct likely to remain warmer
71 builders face recovery of Rs 446 crore dues, served notices by Haryana Rera
Irani Cup: Srinagar Ready To Host Historic Clash As Big-ticket Cricket Returns To Sher-i-Kashmir
Save Sharda Temple Committee: Its hard to ignore the sheer buzz around the picturesque Sher-i-Kashmir Stadium. Located in Srinagars Sonwar Bagh area, the ground is nestled in an environmentally rich area by the side of the Jhelum River, tall chinar trees, serene hills and the Shankaracharya temple atop make for a picture-perfect view. Add to it the cool breeze that comes in brings a setting that makes cricket feel at home. But when you look closer, barbed wire rings around the ground catch your eye, while sniffer dogs are doing a final check. Outside, fans jostle in line for passes, holding up a copy of their Aadhaar card, and nobody seems to mind. When the Irani Cup begins here, with Rishabh Pant's Rest of India facing Ranji Trophy champions Jammu and Kashmir, it will mark the start of a time Srinagar has waited for a very long period. The last big-ticket fixture in the city was an ODI between India and Australia in 1986. The one before it, in 1983 against the West Indies, came just months after Kapil Dev's team epically won the ODI World Cup. Raju Raina, then a college student, was in the stands for the clash on October 13, 1983 and still remembers it clearly. Excitement was there as it was the first ODI between India and the West Indies after India were crowned the World Cup winners at the mecca of cricket Lords in London. Upon reaching the stadium, the teams were doing their warm-up. Soon the match started, and India were put in to bat first. It was a full house & the atmosphere was good initially. It was the first time I had the opportunity to see our World Cup-winning cricket stars so up close. One of the friends of my elder brother-in-law got us tickets for 10 rupees, which translates to 1000 rupees for seeing modern-day international games in India. The conditions were comparable to the ones obtainable in England. The ball swung well, as October in Srinagar is pretty cold & fresh. Quite a picturesque cricket stadium, with the Jhelum River on one end & the Shankaracharya hill on the other. A slight breeze was running across the ground, he said in a free-wheeling chat with IANS. After India were bowled out for 176 in 41.2 overs, twelve men came in to dig in the pitch at lunch break, but matters got settled before the West Indies reply started. At 108/0 in 22.4 overs, a dust storm came and forced the game to be abandoned, with the West Indies declared winners. Raju, who also saw a three-day match between North Zone and the visiting Australian team, which had the likes of Ashok Malhotra and Raman Lamba, still remembers it well. The match progressed well until India completed their innings. During lunchtime, suddenly a few people emerged from nowhere and dug up the pitch. But the management got the pitch rolled, and the West Indies innings started. Soon there was a dust storm due to which the match had to be abandoned and the West Indies won. A section of the crowd was restive, engaging in sloganeering etc. Though 12 men were arrested, they were acquitted in 2011. Ravinder Pandita, a former All India Radio and Doordarshan Kashmir commentator who now chairs the Save Sharda Temple Committee - Kashmir, clearly remembers the mood around the 1983 ODI in Srinagar Cricket had its own place in Kashmir, despite the craze for football. Even in cricket, the craze was particularly for Pakistani players because if you go to any college or hostel in those days, then you would find cricket players - not just footballers, cricket players. Before that 1983 ODI, Ranji Trophy matches were going on and, suppose Punjab would come to play or Haryana, they would boo them out. Support was for the J&K team, but J&K was always losing, he said to IANS from Teetwal village. Pandita still remembers the tension before the match in October 1983. Before this India-West Indies ODI, they dug the pitch at night. The West Indian players, I remember, were staying in Broadway Hotel. Many were opposing the hosting of this game, and in this way, the separatists tried to derail it by saying that they don't want to play it happen. Such was the effect that an entertainment band assigned for the entertainment of the visitors couldnt reach their hotel. Then at the last moment, they called us from REC Srinagar. A few youths led by Sukumar Singh Manipuri, who played the guitar, were there, and my brother was playing the mouth organ, and then there would be Anuj Dayal; he would be on the congo. We played in the band and entertained the West Indies players because the main band couldn't come due to the mahaul created. So, it was only the filmi tunes which were played. I think for half an hour we entertained them, and that was the situation. The next day, they found the pitch was dug on the day of the match. Then again, during the lunch break, it was dug in, and then a storm came, and the game was over. So, players had to take cover because booing and throwing bottles were happening towards the Indian fielders. The West Indies were also worried about what would happen in those days. They were quite frightened about whether they were playing in India or not. They were not willing to play, but somehow, I think organisers convinced them to take on the field. So, Indians were always astonished by what was happening. The atmosphere was very bad. The stadium was filled, but it was not mainly for the interest of the game it was full of people there to boo Indian cricketers. Then, next was 1986, India versus Australia ODI. That was captained by Allan Border, and two Kashmiri Pandits were working on the game - Dhruv Narayan Koul, an SBI employee at that time, was the scorer, and I was the commentator, though I didnt do anything as I was observing JP Narayan in English and Indramohan Sahay in Hindi commentary. I interviewed Sunil Gavaskar at a houseboat in Dal Lake, and Allan Border was also there. So, that match went okay and was won by Australia. Then the quiet came. As militancy spread and Kashmiri Pandits like Pandita and Raina were forced to leave Srinagar, paramilitary forces occupied the stadium complex for 18 years and used the dressing rooms as living quarters and stores. First-class cricket returned in 2009, but big games stayed rare. The love of the game never faded, though, and when the Legends League visited Srinagar in 2024, even a makeshift venue was packed. Pandita went back to see the ground for himself two months ago. The majestic Chinar trees are still standing, and I saw them while I was staying in Circuit House. But it's a very small stadium, right? Now we have exposure to bigger stadiums. I thought. 'What kind of a stadium is this?' He believes cricket has won over the valley and its people, now that the likes of Parvez Rasool, Umran Malik, Rasikh Salam and Auqib Nabi are now in India and India A set-ups. Yes, definitely, because the way local tournaments are happening here, people have forgotten football now, while hockey is totally gone. I think Hockey will never pick up again. Football is not the same as it used to be before. So now it's all cricket. Whether it's Baramulla or Anantnag, cricket has become a big thing. That devotion and love for cricket now has a team to match. Jammu and Kashmir won their first Ranji Trophy in February, after 67 years of trying, and Nabis ODI debut in Guwahati, though he leaked 84 runs, made everyone delighted in Srinagar. The stadium was in a race against time to have everything a top-class stadium needs for smooth functioning. He believes cricket has won over the valley and its people, now that the likes of Parvez Rasool, Umran Malik, Rasikh Salam and Auqib Nabi are now in India and India A set-ups. Yes, definitely, because the way local tournaments are happening here, people have forgotten football now, while hockey is totally gone. I think Hockey will never pick up again. Football is not the same as it used to be before. So now it's all cricket. Whether it's Baramulla or Anantnag, cricket has become a big thing. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
Delhi AQI Slips To 'Moderate' As Stubble Burning Reported In 6 States
A total of 114 residue-burning events were detected across the six states between September 15 and 30, including 59 in Punjab, 32 in Uttar Pradesh, 17 in Madhya Pradesh, three in Haryana, two in Rajasthan and one in Delhi, the data showed.
Companies upset as states delay labour codes adoption
Major industrial states including Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Maharashtra, Telangana, Haryana and Punjab are taking longer than expected to notify the final rules, leaving employers in a flux over several divergent provisions. HR departments say they now have to navigate Centre-state rules that don't align, creating inconsistencies in compliance requirements.
Haryana Minister Anil Vij Criticizes Oppositions Call to Remove CEC, Targets Rahul Gandhi
Haryana Minister Anil Vij defends the Chief Election Commissioner against opposition claims, attacking Rahul Gandhis stance on democracy. Haryana Minister Anil Vij Criticizes Oppositions Call to Remove CEC, Targets Rahul Gandhi
Bhupinder Hooda Slams Haryana Govt in Nuh as Raj Babbar Demands CEC Resignation
Indias industrial jobs cross 2 cr mark in 2024-25
India's industrial workforce increased to over 2 crore in 2024-25, driven largely by the manufacturing sector. The registered manufacturing sector saw broad-based growth, with a notable rise in employment and wages. Tamil Nadu, Maharashtra, Gujarat, Uttar Pradesh, and Haryana led in manufacturing employment during this period. Gross value added in manufacturing rose significantly, indicating continued expansion in industrial value addition.
Himachal households travel and spend more than counterparts in Punjab, Haryana: Study
Ayan Lohchab Gets Grand Welcome in Jhajjar
Asian Games gold medallist Ayan Lohchab received a grand welcome in his hometown Jhajjar, Haryana, as fans, supporters and locals gathered to celebrate his remarkable achievement.
From Village School To IPS: Haryana Farmer's Daughter Cracked UPSC In First Attempt
UPSC Success Story: Khokhar appeared for the UPSC Civil Services Examination for the first time in 2017 and secured All India Rank 141. She subsequently joined the Indian Police Service in the Maharashtra cadre.
HTET Revised Result 2026 Out - Download Haryana TET Scorecard and Certificate
HTET Revised Result 2026 was released on 30 September 2026 after biometric verification. Check Level 1, 2 and 3 results, scorecard and qualifying marks.
Ahead of Amit Shah's Jalandhar rally, bomb threat email received in Punjab
Ahead of Union Home Minister Amit Shah's rally here on Wednesday, a bomb threat email was received, targeting schools, the rally site, Devi Talab temple and the court complex, officials said. A police officer said they are technically analysing the email and trying to find its origin. Security has been stepped up at the rally site and Devi Talab temple, following the Union Home Minister's Jalandhar visit. Shah will address a public gathering in village Paragpur, Jalandhar, as the BJP's 'Nasha Mukt Punjab Yatra' concludes. Launched on September 18, the yatra travelled through all 117 assembly constituencies of Punjab, covering 4,000 kilometres, and reached Jalandhar on Tuesday. Police said the bomb threat email mentioned targeting schools, the rally site, Devi Talab temple and the court complex. The fresh scare comes on the heels of similar threats reported in recent months from multiple places in Punjab and Haryana, where such emails later turned out to be hoaxes.
Chidambaram calls SIR process deeply flawed, questions ECs decisions
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Sep 30 (IANS) Former Union Minister and Congress leader P. Chidambaram on Wednesday criticised the Election Commission of India (ECI) over the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) process of electoral rolls, alleging that it has been marred by serious concerns and disagreements within the poll panel. Speaking to IANS, Chidambaram said, The Election Commission is totally wrong. The SIR process has been doubted by the two Election Commissioners, and they have pointed out that there were 14 disagreements between the Election Commissioners and the Chief Election Commissioner. He further referred to alleged errors in the electoral revision process in several states, including Karnataka, Maharashtra and Haryana. Too many mistakes have been pointed out in Karnataka, Maharashtra and Haryana. So many mistakes have been pointed out in the past. The SIR process is deeply flawed. If it was not flawed, why should the Election Commission meet again and change the process? What happened a few days ago should be totally scrapped, he said. Reports of differences within the three-member Election Commission over aspects of the SIR exercise have triggered a political controversy. According to reports, Election Commissioners Sukhbir Singh Sandhu and Vivek Joshi had raised objections on several issues over a period of 10 months. The Election Commission, however, has maintained that the final decisions on the SIR exercise were unanimous and that the observations raised during the process were part of its deliberations. The INDIA bloc is scheduled to hold a meeting in New Delhi on Wednesday to discuss the Election Commission row and chalk out a joint strategy on the SIR process. The meeting is also expected to consider plans for a nationwide agitation, including protests and public rallies against Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar. An impeachment motion against him in Parliament is also expected to be discussed. The meeting comes after the Congress Working Committee adopted a resolution seeking CEC Kumars removal and raising concerns over the functioning of the Election Commission. The Opposition has intensified its criticism of the poll panel following reports about the differences between the two Election Commissioners and the CEC over electoral roll revisions. Congress leader Rahul Gandhi has also alleged irregularities in the electoral process, while the Election Commission has rejected claims that its decisions were taken without the approval of its members. The Opposition's proposed campaign is expected to begin with a series of rallies, including one at Delhi's Ramlila Maidan, followed by programmes in different states. The INDIA bloc may also announce the date of its first major rally during the meeting. Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge, Rahul Gandhi and Sonia Gandhi are expected to represent Congress. Trinamool Congress leaders Mamata Banerjee, Abhishek Banerjee, Kalyan Banerjee and Derek O'Brien are also expected to attend. Leaders of Left parties are likely to participate as well. Jharkhand Mukti Morcha leader Hemant Soren, RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav, NCP's Supriya Sule, National Conference chief Omar Abdullah and PDP chief Mehbooba Mufti are among the other leaders expected to join the meeting. Shiv Sena(UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray is expected to participate virtually. Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav is not likely to attend the meeting, with senior party leader Harendra Malik set to represent the party.
Delhi-NCR likely to turn dry as rains ease; air quality remains in moderate category
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Sep 30 (IANS) Delhi-NCR is likely to witness a significant shift in weather from Wednesday, with the recent spell of rain and thunderstorms expected to give way to predominantly dry conditions. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast mainly clear skies over the national capital and neighbouring areas, with dry weather likely to prevail across Delhi, Haryana and Chandigarh through the first week of October. The change comes after showers on Tuesday brought a noticeable chill to Delhi, with temperatures briefly giving the national capital a winter-like feel. However, the latest weather forecast indicates that rainfall activity is likely to subside from Wednesday, particularly over northwest India. Delhi, Haryana, Punjab and parts of Uttar Pradesh are expected to remain largely dry as the recent rain and thunderstorm activity weakens. Delhi is likely to record a minimum temperature of around 24 degrees Celsius and a maximum temperature of nearly 33 degrees Celsius on Wednesday. While northwest India is expected to remain mostly dry, weather conditions across the rest of the country are likely to remain varied. Rain and thunderstorms are expected to continue over parts of southern, eastern and northeastern India. According to the IMD forecast, isolated heavy rainfall is likely over several areas of the Northeast and southern peninsula on Wednesday. The southern peninsula is expected to remain one of the major rain-affected regions, with some areas likely to receive heavy showers. The IMD has classified Haryana, Chandigarh and Delhi as dry on Wednesday. Similar conditions are expected over Punjab, Rajasthan and most parts of Uttar Pradesh. The contrasting weather conditions across different regions are being influenced by several atmospheric systems currently active over the country. A depression over coastal Myanmar and the adjoining Bay of Bengal was moving rapidly north-northwestwards on Tuesday. The system was expected to weaken into a well-marked low-pressure area later on September 29 and continue moving towards southeast Bangladesh and adjoining northeastern parts of India. At the same time, a western disturbance and associated upper-air systems continue to influence parts of north India. Another circulation and trough are extending across southern India. The interaction and movement of these systems are contributing to the contrasting weather patterns being observed across the country. The IMD also recorded heavy to very heavy rainfall at isolated places over Haryana during the 24 hours ending Tuesday morning. The rainfall highlights the intensity of the recent spell over parts of north India, even as the broader weather pattern is now expected to turn predominantly dry. The southwest monsoon is also continuing its gradual withdrawal from the country as the rainy season approaches its conclusion. With the monsoon retreating, northwest India is expected to gradually transition towards predominantly dry weather. However, rainfall activity is likely to persist in several other parts of the country. Uttarakhand may experience isolated rain and thunderstorms through October 4, while Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh could witness similar weather conditions between October 2 and 4. Himachal Pradesh may also receive isolated showers during the period. In central India, rain and thunderstorms are likely over parts of Madhya Pradesh, Vidarbha and Chhattisgarh in the coming days. The Northeast is expected to remain relatively wetter, with rainfall forecast over Assam, Meghalaya, Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland, Manipur, Mizoram and Tripura through October 4. Some areas may also receive heavy rainfall. Southern India is likely to remain another significant zone of rainfall. The IMD has forecast isolated heavy showers over parts of the southern peninsula during the next four to five days, with Tamil Nadu, Kerala and South Interior Karnataka among the areas likely to receive heavy rainfall. Meanwhile, Delhi's air quality remained in the 'moderate' category. The Air Quality Index (AQI) readings included Mandir Marg at 97, Aya Nagar at 79, Punjabi Bagh at 113, CRRI Mathura Road at 138, Pusa at 149, Sirifort at 105, IGI Airport (T3) at 101, Commonwealth Sports Complex at 122, North Campus at 122, R K Puram at 122, ITO at 86, IIT Delhi at 140, DTU at 100, Wazirpur at 134, Jahangirpuri at 153, Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium at 105, Anand Vihar at 105 and Cantonment Area at 105.
IUST inaugurates JK Science Congress 2026
Awantipora, Sep 29: The three-day J&K Science Congress 2026 commenced at Islamic University of Science and Technology (IUST) on Tuesday. Being organised under the theme Science, Innovations and Emerging Technologies for Sustainable and VIKSIT J&K, the Congress seeks to provide a platform for academic discourse on emerging scientific developments and their relevance to the sustainable development of Jammu and Kashmir. The first day of the Congress featured two plenary lectures followed by the inaugural session, technical sessions and a poster presentation. The inaugural session was held at Nund Reshi Auditorium IUST with Prof. Dinesh Singh, Vice Chairman, J&K Higher Education Council as the Chief Guest. He said, technologies like Quantum computing, Artificial Intelligence and nuclear fusion are the future, however, India remains deficient in these areas. Therefore, there is a need to accelerate the efforts, he stressed. Vice Chancellor, IUST, Prof. Shakil Ahmad Romshoo said, the J&K Science Congress exemplifies the spirit of a true Multiversity, bringing together scientists, academics, and researchers from universities and institutions across the country. The future of J&K must increasingly be driven by science, technology and innovation, with our universities functioning not merely as centres of teaching but as interconnected ecosystems of research, innovation and entrepreneurship, he said. He added that high-end research infrastructure must be optimally shared and leveraged for advanced research. By pooling institutional strengths, empowering our researchers and translating knowledge into societal solutions, we can contribute meaningfully to building a sustainable, resilient and Viksit J&K, aligned with the larger vision of Viksit Bharat, said Prof Romshoo. Guest of Honour Babila Rakwal Commissioner Secretary, Science and Technology Department, Government of J&K said, there is a dire need to bridge the gap between research and its application. The J&K Science Congress deliberates on themes that go far beyond academic discourse and are directly linked to societal progress, she said. The inaugural session was also attended by Prof. Vinod Kumar Gaur, Former Secretary, Ministry of Earth Sciences, Prof. Mohammad Mobin Vice Chancellor, Cluster University, Srinagar, and Prof. A Ravinder Nath Vice Chancellor, Central University of Kashmir. Earlier, the welcome address was delivered by Dr. Aabid Hussain Shalla, Dean Research IUST. Meanwhile, JK Science Congress proceedings were released on the occasion. The scientific proceedings began with its first Plenary lecture delivered by Prof. Sourav Pal, Department of Chemistry, Ashoka University Sonipat Haryana, while the second plenary lecture was delivered by Prof. Dinesh Singh. The inaugural session was followed by technical sessions. A poster presentation was also organised, providing researchers and participants an opportunity to present and exchange ideas emerging from their respective areas of work. The first day of the Congress thus set the tone for three days of academic engagement, with discussions centred on scientific innovation, emerging technologies and their potential contribution to a sustainable and developed J&K. The Congress will continue with further technical and academic deliberations on the subsequent days.
Meghalaya Police athletes strike gold
SHILLONG, Sep 28: Meghalaya Police athletes Wandalin Syiemiong and Alan Sun Marbaniang struck gold at the 75th All India Police Wrestling Cluster 2026-27, held at the Haryana Police Academy in Madhuban, Haryana. Syiemiong emerged champion in the womens 60kg arm-wrestling category, while Marbaniang secured the mens 90kg gold. Marbaniang added another major achievement to his []
Haryana bank scam: ED searches 14 locations in Chandigarh, Mohali
NGT notice to Haryana govt over SO norm violations at Panipat thermal plant units
Asian Games: Kiran Pahal credits team effort after womens 4x400m relay gold
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Sep 29 (IANS) Kiran Pahal said the collective effort of Indias womens 4x400m relay quartet helped turn individual contributions into a gold-medal performance as the team scripted history at the Asian Games 2026 on Tuesday. Kiran, who ran the opening leg, joined M.R. Poovamma, Prachi Choudhary and Vithya Ramraj in clocking 3:29.69 to win gold. Bahrain finished second in 3:30.21, while China took bronze in 3:31.02. Speaking to IANS after the victory, Kiran said the quartet had set its sights firmly on gold even before the final. We had decided from yesterday itself that we only wanted to win gold. That was the only thing on our minds. I was given the starting baton, so there was a responsibility on my shoulders. I had decided that I would perform well, and I did. I gave my 100 per cent, but the team together turned it into 200 per cent, she said. The final was held amid persistent rain, leaving the track wet, but Kiran said the conditions did not trouble the Indian quartet significantly, thanks in part to their preparation. We did not face too much difficulty because the Athletics Federation of India had organised a camp for us in Poland for quite some time, where it used to rain. We became accustomed to running in the rain, so it was not a major problem for us, she said. Kiran, the youngest among her siblings, hails from Gummad village in Haryanas Sonipat district and said the support of her family and the athletics federation had played a major role in her journey. I am from Gummad village in Sonipat district of Haryana. I have my mother, elder brother, and elder sister in my family, and I am the youngest among the siblings. I have received a lot of support from my family. The most support came from the Athletics Federation of India, without which I would not have reached where I am today. I would also like to thank the government, she said. The 25-year-old dedicated the gold to her family, federation and government, while recalling her fathers dream of seeing her win an international gold medal. I dedicate this medal to my federation, the government, my family and my father, because it was my fathers dream that I should win an international gold medal. He must be feeling very proud today. I am also very proud of this achievement, and the entire country is proud, Kiran said. She also highlighted the support Indian athletes receive through training camps, competitions and financial assistance. We get a lot of facilities at the camps and opportunities to compete in many competitions. We try to give our best from competition to competition. We are also receiving a lot of financial support, which is very important. We are also made mentally stronger, she said. The gold marked Indias first Asian Games title in the womens 4x400m relay and improved on the silver-medal finish from the previous edition.
A Rs 645 crore fraud involving Haryana government funds and accounts held at IDFC First Bank has been unearthed as theEnforcement Directorate (ED) has carried out searches at 14 locations across Chandigarh, Mohali and Panchkula, officials said on Tuesday.
Shamli Police Initiate Property Attachment In Singer Murder Case
Police in Shamli, Uttar Pradesh, have initiated proceedings to attach the properties of three absconding accused, Satyam Kadiyan, Aryan Sandhu, and Rahul alias Bholu, in the murder case of Haryanvi singer Ankit Balyan. The accused, all from Haryana, each carry a reward of Rs 1 lakh. Balyan was shot dead on August 26, and two alleged shooters were later killed in a police encounter.
Four killed, eight injured in two accidents on Delhi-Mumbai Expressway in MP
Digital Desk | Ratlam, Sep 29 (IANS) At least four people were killed and eight others injured in two separate road accidents on the Delhi-Mumbai Expressway in Madhya Pradesh's Ratlam district on Tuesday, police said. The accidents occurred within a span of about two hours on the eight-lane expressway under the jurisdiction of Jaora Industrial police station, with both cars plunging into a 30-40 feet deep gorge after hitting the central median. The first accident took place around 4:30 a.m. when a car carrying a family from Punjab, travelling from Ambala in Haryana to Mumbai, hit the median railing. The vehicle broke through a portion of the railing and fell into the gorge, police said. Narendra Kaur (67) and her daughter-in-law Manpreet Kaur (32), both from Punjab, died in the accident. Three other occupants, including an elderly man and two children, were injured. Prima facie, it appears that the driver may have become drowsy while driving at high speed and lost control of the vehicle, causing it to hit the railing, Jaora Industrial police station in-charge Prakash Gadariya said. Police reached the spot after receiving information from other motorists and shifted the injured to a hospital in Jaora. They were later referred to Ratlam Medical College for further treatment. While police personnel were examining the site of the first accident, another car carrying a family from Dahod in Gujarat met with an accident around 6:30 a.m., police said. The second vehicle, bearing registration number GJ20 CB 4610, reportedly went airborne after hitting the central median and fell into the gorge. The railing at the spot had been damaged in the first accident. Ravi Hatila (35), who was driving the second car, and Ramesh Makwana (50), both from Dahod, were killed. Four to five other occupants of the vehicle were injured. The railing had been damaged in the first accident, and while our personnel were conducting an inspection at the spot, the second car hit the median and fell into the gorge, Gadariya said. The Gujarat family was returning to Dahod after travelling to Uttar Pradesh for medical treatment of a family member. Police have launched an investigation into the circumstances surrounding both accidents, including the condition of the road infrastructure and the factors that led to the vehicles losing control.
HTET 2026: BSEH Confirms Examination Will Be Conducted This Year
The Board of School Education Haryana (BSEH) has confirmed that the Haryana Teacher Eligibility Test (HTET) 2026 will be conducted this year. The Board has asked candidates planning to appear for the eligibility test to continue their preparation while arrangements for
CWC meet: Cong calls SIR fraud exercise; plans pan-India stir against compromised poll panel
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Sep 29 (IANS) The Congress Working Committee (CWC) on Tuesday deliberated on a host of burning issues concerning the 'irregularities' in the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) exercise and vowed to launch nationwide protests against alleged malpractices by the Election Commission (EC). Addressing a press conference after the CWC meet, Congress General Secretary K.C. Venugopal launched a scathing attack on the Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Gyanesh Kumar, demanding his immediate sacking while alleging that he was acting at the behest of the Centre to deprive crores of voters their democratic right to cast a vote. The SIR is a complete fraud exercise. The CEC is completely compromised, the Election system is rigged, both the EVMs and the voters' lists are compromised -- designed to favour the BJP in elections, Venugopal claimed. He said that the Congress party will aggressively resist the design to hijack the democracy and launch a pan-India protest soon, after consultation with the INDIA bloc partners. The democracy and the country are under threat under prevailing circumstances. We will fight tooth and nail and wont let EC succeed in its designs, he noted, while highlighting the Congress stir at more than 800 places in the last two-three days. Notably, a meeting of the INDIA bloc allies is scheduled for Wednesday, where all opposition parties are expected to close ranks against the irregularities and formalise a plan to protest, seeking Gyanesh Kumars ouster. The Congress leader, during the press conference, put forth two demands. We are demanding immediate resignation of CEC Gyanesh Kumar, as he has no moral right to continue in the chair for a single day, he said. Congress partys other demand is immediate suspension of SIR, restoration of 13.30 voters, whose names have been illegally struck off from the voters list, he added. Escalating his attack on the Centre, he said that all the CWC members echoed the view that CEC Gyanesh Kumar was not alone but a tool in the hands of his political masters in altering the SIR process unilaterally. Whenever dictators lose confidence, they try to find extraordinary tools to continue in power. This cannot happen without the concurrence of the Prime Minister and the Home Minister. The two CECs purportedly wrote to the Cabinet Secretary, and that this must have been brought to the Prime Ministers notice, he said. Jairam Ramesh, citing Rahul Gandhis comments at the CWC meet, said that the Congress party has been raising issues of vote chori and unfair manipulation of electoral rolls, but no one paid heed, and these revelations have exposed the malpractices within the poll panel. Rahul Gandhi told the CWC members that it was because of the Congress party that such disclosures are being made. From the Karnataka to Haryana elections, Rahul cited multiple instances of electoral malpractice and made detailed presentations, but people didnt believe him. Today, the disclosures show that what he was saying was right, he told the press. Venugopal, while spelling out the Congress strategy on protests against the EC, said the party will protest in the Parliament and resist on the streets. However, a clear and designed roadmap for pan-India protest will be taken up after the INDIA bloc meeting on Wednesday, he added.
Centre sanctions Rs 1,200 crore to 10 states under PM Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Sep 29 (IANS) Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan on Tuesday handed over financial sanction letters worth more than Rs 1,200 crore to agriculture ministers of 10 states under the Prime Minister Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana (PM-RKVY). The disbursement included Rs 290 crore for West Bengal, Rs 198 crore for Haryana, Rs 181 crore for Chhattisgarh, Rs 154 crore for Arunachal Pradesh, Rs 114 crore for Bihar, Rs 104 crore for Karnataka, Rs 75 crore for Mizoram, Rs 64 crore for Himachal Pradesh, Rs 58 crore for Jharkhand and Rs 43 crore for Punjab. Chairing a meeting attended by Agriculture Ministers and senior officials from various states, Chouhan said the Union Government was not only limiting itself to policy formulation, but also ensuring timely availability of resources to states so that implementation of schemes could begin on the ground without delay. Highlighting the countrys agricultural performance, Chouhan said that since 2015, the agriculture growth rate has increased from 3 per cent to 4.5 per cent. The average annual increase in foodgrain production has also more than doubled, rising from around 40 lakh tonnes earlier to 84 lakh tonnes per year. He further noted that in just two years, from 2023-24 to 2025-26, rabi foodgrain production recorded an unprecedented increase of 205 lakh tonnes. Announcing a new mechanism to further strengthen cooperative federalism, Chouhan said that, on the lines of weekly reviews conducted at the Centre, regular monthly virtual review meetings with states would now be held to continuously assess progress. At the state level, a strong State Agriculture Team will be constituted by bringing together the Agriculture Minister, Agriculture Secretary, state agricultural universities, ICAR institutions, Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs), ATMA and Farmer Producer Organisations (FPOs). Monthly meetings will also be held at the district level. Emphasising the need to protect soil health and the environment, Chouhan called for a nationwide Khet Bachao Abhiyan from October 22 to November 30 this year. Scientists and all key stakeholders will actively participate in the campaign. Based on Soil Health Cards, the campaign will promote balanced use of fertilisers to protect soil fertility and beneficial insects. He also called for large-scale promotion of pulse cultivation in rice fallow areas of eastern India, particularly in Jharkhand, Bihar, Odisha and West Bengal, after the paddy harvest. As part of preparations for the current rabi season, Chouhan stressed that recommendations on crops and improved seeds should be based on soil moisture and water availability. Stating that the availability of seeds and fertilisers in the country is adequate, Chouhan directed states to take strict legal action against fake fertilisers, spurious seeds and sub-standard pesticides. Chouhan said the government is pursuing a multi-dimensional strategy to ensure that farmers receive fair and remunerative prices for their produce. The strategy includes strengthening post-harvest management, scientific warehousing and marketing systems. He said that 100 per cent assured government procurement of tur, urad and masoor at MSP would be undertaken, with arrangements for payment within 48 hours. In line with Prime Minister Narendra Modis vision, he said India would also leverage the new market opportunities emerging from international Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) to connect Indian agricultural products, fruits, vegetables and foodgrains with global markets. This, he said, would help farmers secure better returns for their produce and enable India to emerge as a major food basket for the world.
GJUST Recruitment 2026 - Apply Online for Research Assistant and Field Staff Posts
Guru Jambheshwar University of Science and Technology, Hisar, Haryana (GJUST) Recruitment 2026 for 2 posts of Research Assistant and Field Staff. Candidates Can Apply Online. The online application opens on 18-09-2026, and closes on 05-10-2026. The candidate shall apply online through GJUST official website.
IDFC First Bank case: ED searches jewellery shops in Haryana, Punjab over 645-crore bank fraud
Investigators allege the funds were routed through jewellers bank accounts and presented as legitimate business transactions.
IDFC Bank scam: ED conducts more searches in Chandigarh, Mohali, Panchkula
Digital Desk | Chandigarh, Sep 29 (IANS) The Directorate of Enforcements (ED) Chandigarh Zonal Office II has conducted search operations at 14 premises across Chandigarh, Mohali and Panchkula in connection with its money laundering investigation into the embezzlement of Rs 645 crore of public funds belonging to the Haryana government, the Chandigarh Municipal Corporation and other government accounts. The ED initiated investigation under the provisions of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), 2002, on the basis of a First Information Report (FIR) registered by the Haryana Police in February, concerning discrepancies in balances of bank accounts of the Development and Panchayat Department of Haryana, maintained with IDFC First Bank and AU Small Finance Bank. The searches covered various jewellers and their associated entities, including Malik Jewellers, KLG Jewels and its associate entities, M.B. Gold Traders, Sham Jewellers and Sunder Jewellers, besides Gourav Kansal who allegedly acted as a middleman in routing and layering the proceeds of crime. The investigation has revealed that the allegedly embezzled public funds were routed and layered through the bank accounts of various jewellers and projected as business transactions. These transactions were allegedly carried out in connivance with the accused to conceal and project the proceeds of crime as legitimate funds. The investigation has further revealed that the jewellers were allegedly involved in laundering the proceeds of crime generated from the bank accounts of various departments of Haryana and the Chandigarh administration. The proceeds of crime are also alleged to have been laundered by jewellers which allegedly reached accused IAS officers and other government servants involved in the IDFC First Bank fraud. The CBI has filed a third chargesheet before the Special Court in Panchkula, naming six Haryana-cadre IAS officers and other government servants in connection with the fraud. Earlier, the ED had arrested four accused for their alleged involvement in the offence of money laundering. The agency has also attached, seized and frozen movable and immovable assets of approximately Rs 211 crore in connection with the investigation. The ED has further filed a prosecution complaint against 14 accused in the Special Court of PMLA in Panchkula. The latest searches have resulted in the recovery of further evidence relating to the routing, layering, concealment and projection of proceeds of crime through various entities and bank accounts.
