Punjab Politician Urges Government to Crack Down on Drug Traffickers
Sunil Jakhar calls for action against drug traffickers in Punjab, highlighting the need for accountability and justice. Punjab Politician Urges Government to Crack Down on Drug Traffickers
Ram Bhakton Ki Ek Pukar: Aman Arora Urges PM Modi to Act in Ram Mandir Donation Case
Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) Punjab President and Cabinet Minister Aman Arora on Monday urged Prime Minister Narendra Modi to ensure strict punishment for those responsible for the reported chanda chori at Shri Ram Mandir in Ayodhya, asserting that the BJP, which
Hockey: Trophy tour begins in Mohali ahead of Asian Champions Trophy Punjab
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Oct 19 (IANS) The build-up to the Asian Champions Trophy Punjab 2026 gathered momentum with the launch of a nine-day trophy tour in Mohali on Sunday, bringing the upcoming mens hockey tournament closer to fans across the state ahead of the continental competition from October 27 to November 5. The tour was flagged off at the Olympian Balbir Singh Senior International Hockey Stadium in Sahibzada Ajit Singh Nagar (Mohali) on October 18 and will travel through several cities and towns, including Patiala, Amritsar, Bathinda, Ludhiana and Kapurthala, before reaching Jalandhar on October 26. The initiative aims to build excitement for the ninth edition of the tournament while celebrating Punjabs longstanding contribution to Indian hockey. The trophys journey will give local communities, aspiring players and supporters an opportunity to engage with the competition ahead of the arrival of Asias leading hockey teams. Punjab has been a traditional stronghold of Indian hockey, producing generations of players who have represented the country at major international events. The tour seeks to connect this legacy with the upcoming championship, which will bring international hockey back to the state. Jalandhar will host the league-stage matches at the Olympian Surjit Singh Hockey Stadium from October 27 to November 2. The competition will then move to Mohali, where the Olympian Balbir Singh Senior International Hockey Stadium will stage the semifinals and medal matches on November 4 and 5. Established in 2011, the Asian Champions Trophy has developed into a prominent fixture on the continental hockey calendar, bringing together some of Asias strongest national teams. India, the tournaments most successful side with five titles, will aim to add to its record while competing on home soil. Malaysia, Japan, South Korea, China and Bangladesh will join the hosts in the six-team competition.
Pakistan must address deeper crisis of governance, accountability before redrawing its map: Report
Digital Desk | Islamabad, Oct 19 (IANS) Before redrawing map, Pakistan must first address its deepening crisis of governance, accountability, and democratic representation that continues to undermine state institutions in the country, a report has detailed. Pakistan's political establishment's latest proposal to redraw its provincial map is being presented as an administrative reform designed to improve governance in a country facing population growth, weak service delivery, and uneven development. Reports that authorities are considering a plan to divide four provinces of Pakistan into 12 to 15 smaller provinces, with some proposals calling for a larger network of administrative units, have sparked intense political debate, a report in Maldives' ETruth MV. The call for more provinces comes at a time when Pakistan's military has unprecedented influence over the political landscape of Pakistan. The restructuring of provinces has a profound impact on federalism, provincial autonomy, resource distribution and the future balance of power between elected institutions and Pakistan's most powerful unelected actor. The report mentioned that proposal to create smaller provinces seems persuasive, as Pakistan's demographic realities are undeniably uneven. Punjab contains more people than many nations, while Balochistan, which has nearly half of Pakistan's landmass, only has a small fraction of the population. People often feel disconnected from government institutions due to vast distances, poor infrastructure and overburdened bureaucracies. However, considering provincial boundaries as the source of Pakistan's governance failures risks shadowing the real causes of the state dysfunction. The political history of Pakistan has witnessed repeated attempts to reshape institutions through elite-driven engineering instead of broad democratic consent. Changes in the constitution, administrative decisions, and structural reforms have frequently originated from centres of power functioning above the electoral process. Considering this, any proposal related to the military establishment demands scrutiny, as it has an impact far beyond governance, according to a report in ETruth MV. Redrawing provincial boundaries would redistribute political influence, fiscal authority, and institutional power in Pakistan, making the question of authorship and intent impossible to ignore. This concern becomes more important due to Pakistans contemporary political environment. Pakistan's military remains the countrys most powerful institution despite the presence of an elected civilian government. The timing of the proposal has also sparked questions on why the provincial restructuring has emerged as a national priority at a moment when Pakistan faces severe economic distress, rising public debt, sluggish growth, inflation and worsening investor confidence. Currently, Pakistan faces many challenges like economic governance, fiscal weakness, energy shortages, educational deficits, and institutional dysfunction, and none of the problems will disappear because a line on the map is moved. A state that struggles to respect electoral mandates cannot easily claim legitimacy for redesigning the federal compact. Before Pakistan redraws its map, it must first address the deeper crisis of governance, accountability, and democratic representation that continues to undermine state institutions. Otherwise, what is being presented as decentralisation may ultimately amount to something very different, the redistribution of power upward rather than downward, the ETruth MV report stated. In July, Pakistan's Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi said that the country's current governance system has collapsed and is unable to resolve the issues faced by the country. In his address at the Pakistan Economic Summit, Naqvi called for talks among political parties to introduce reforms in the current governance system and proposed the creation of new provinces and bringing administrative reforms. The system we are living under has collapsed. Problems cannot be solved through it, leading Pakistani daily Dawn quoted Naqvi as saying. He said that Pakistan will continue to discuss the same issues even after 10 years if this system continues and stressed that a reset was important, Dawn reported. Naqvi said that the failed system had continued in Pakistan for 70 years. He mentioned that Pakistan has been importing wheat despite being an agricultural nation.
Stop protecting drug traffickers: Punjab BJP tells DGP
Digital Desk | Chandigarh, Oct 19 (IANS) Former Punjab BJP President Sunil Jakhar on Monday urged the AAP government to stop protecting drug traffickers and take firm action to curb the drug menace. Expressing anguish over the Chief Ministers visit to France to celebrate his birthday while Punjab burns in the furnace of drugs, he said the people of Punjab were keeping account of every moment. Jakhar was speaking to the media here after meeting the Director General of Police (DGP), accompanied by Amandeep Kaur, the sister of Lovepreet Singh, and other family members, to seek justice for Lovepreet, who was found dead in Abohar on September 14. During the press conference, the family alleged that despite submitting complaints, they had received no justice in Lovepreets death case. Questioning the Punjab governments anti-drug policy and the accountability of the police administration, Jakhar warned that the matter would be taken to court if appropriate action was not taken within the next five to seven days. Lovepreet Singhs sister, Amandeep Kaur, alleged that drug traffickers had murdered her brother on September 14 and dumped his body in bushes. She said the family had sent complaints to the SSP and the Punjab DGP through email and speed post on September 19, but no action had followed. The family alleged that drugs were being sold openly in the area and that those selling them were also issuing threats. They further claimed that reports had emerged of even minors being involved in selling drugs in the locality. Jakhar said Amandeep Kaur had gathered CCTV footage related to the case through her own efforts, and that it had been handed over to the Punjab DGP on a pen drive. He alleged that reports had also emerged of the police intimidating those from whom the footage had been collected and having it deleted, instead of taking action. He demanded that all available digital evidence in the case be preserved and that the investigation, including forensic examination of the evidence, be conducted in accordance with due legal process, so that no crucial evidence was damaged and the truth behind the death could emerge. Referring to the Punjab DGPs announcement on April 28, 2025, about holding the SHO of the police station concerned accountable in cases involving drug recoveries, Jakhar asked: If accountability had been fixed to prevent drug trafficking, where are the results? Jakhar said that after district magistrates issued orders banning pregabalin, no official had bothered to visit pharmacies to check whether those orders were being followed. He alleged that the government had confined itself to issuing official orders and completing paperwork. He said Parwinder Singh Jhona would still be alive today had the government acted in time to curb the misuse of pharmaceutical drugs. Jakhar also questioned the measures being taken to prevent cross-border drug trafficking. Questioning the effectiveness of the anti-drone system called Baaz Akh, reportedly installed at a cost of approximately Rs 52 crore, he said 25 kg of heroin had been seized from a constable deployed with the system. He asked whether the constable was operating on his own or whether senior officers or a political leader were also involved.
Naidu Accuses YSRCP of Using Interstate Criminals to Create Tensions
Naidu alleged that YSRCP had brought gangs, rowdies and criminals from Punjab, other states and interstate networks to create disturbances in places such as Punganur and Rayachoti
Kashmir-Bound Bus Targeted with Stone in Punjab, Police Launch Probe
SRINAGAR: Punjab Police have launched an investigation after a stone was allegedly thrown at a Srinagar-bound passenger bus near Doraha in Ludhiana district late Sunday night, cracking a window on the passenger side. Khanna SP (D) Rakesh Yadav said police received information about the incident through the 112 helpline at around 11 pm to 11.30 []
Punjab AAP seeks punishment for Ayodhya's Ram Temple 'chanda chori accused
Digital Desk | Chandigarh, Oct 19 (IANS) Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) Punjab President, Aman Arora, on Monday urged Prime Minister Narendra Modi to ensure strict punishment for those responsible for the reported 'chanda chori' at Shri Ram Mandir in Ayodhya. The AAP asserted that the BJP, which rose to power by invoking the sentiments associated with the Ram Temple, must not shield anyone who betrayed devotees faith. Citing 105 reported incidents of chanda-chori (donation theft)', Aman Arora demanded a thorough probe into the role of senior officials, questioning why accountability should end with junior employees. Arora said more than one lakh Ram devotees from Punjab had written to Prime Minister Modi seeking justice, declaring: Ram Bhakton ki ek pukar, Chanda choron ko saza is baar. Arora said, Millions of Ram devotees contributed their hard-earned money towards the construction of the Shri Ram Mandir in Ayodhya with immense faith and devotion. If the money donated by devotees has been misappropriated, it is a betrayal of their faith. Prime Minister Narendra Modi must ensure that everyone found guilty faces the strictest punishment. The AAP Punjab President said, I am raising this issue not as an AAP leader or party president, but as a Ram Bhakt who shares the anguish of lakhs of people across Punjab. People across the country celebrated the construction of the Shri Ram Mandir with immense joy and contributed generously from their hard-earned savings towards this sacred project. Their faith and contributions deserve to be respected. While displaying bundles of letters received from different parts of Punjab, Cabinet Minister Arora said, More than one lakh Ram devotees from Punjab have voluntarily written letters to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, urging him to intervene and ensure justice. These letters have come from across approximately 22,000 polling booths in the state. We will present them to the Prime Minister as a collective appeal from devotees who want accountability and strict action against everyone found responsible. Why should accountability end with lower-level employees when serious questions remain about the role of senior officials and those entrusted with managing the temples affairs? If repeated incidents of theft have taken place, the responsibility of those overseeing the institution must also be examined, he said.
You're Singing After Drinking Alcohol: MLA Snaps At Daler Mehndi On Stage
The popular Punjabi singer was performing at the Kunjapuri Fair in Uttarakhand's Tehri district on Sunday.
After Karnal attack, Kashmir-bound bus targeted with stones in Ludhiana
Mansa Murder: Harsimrat Seeks CBI Probe, Alleges Drug Nexus
Senior SAD leader Harsimrat Kaur Badal has written to Union Home Minister Amit Shah, requesting a CBI probe into the murder of anti-drug activist Parvinder Singh Jhota in Mansa. She also called for an investigation into the alleged politicians-police drug trade nexus in Punjab, citing claims by Jhota's father about a wider conspiracy.
Another Srinagar-bound bus attacked, this time in Punjab
New Delhi: A day after a Delhi-Kashmir bus was pelted with stones in Haryana, another case of a similar attack on a Kashmir-bound bus has emerged from Punjab, raising concern over the safety of passengers on the route. The latest incident, according to bus driver Ishfaq Ahmad, occurred on Sunday at 11 pm in Doraha, Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
16-Year-Old Student Allegedly Molested Inside Ludhiana School, Peon Arrested
The Tibba policeA 16-year-old student was allegedly molested by a school peon inside a private school in Ludhiana, Punjab. The incident was captured on CCTV, which reportedly showed the accused grabbing the girl from behind and forcibly kissing her. According to
Missing Kokernag labourers body returns home, family alleges murder
Anantnag, Oct 19: Grief and anger erupted in south Kashmirs Kokernag on Monday as family members and locals staged a protest after the body of a 28-year-old labourer, who had been missing for weeks, reached his native village from Punjab. The grieving family members and locals blocked the road, wailed and beat their chests while demanding justice. The grieving family told the news agencyKashmir News Observer (KNO) that Dar had initially travelled to Srinagar for work before leaving for Ludhiana in Punjab in search of employment. We remained in regular telephone contact with him for about a week, after which his phone was switched off and he could no longer be reached, said a family member. He said that on October 17, the family and locals staged a protest in Hallpora, expressing concern over Dars disappearance and seeking urgent efforts to trace him. On Monday morning, after his body reached the village, family members and locals staged another protest outside Police Station Kokernag, alleging that Dar had been murdered and demanding the immediate arrest of those responsible. A police officer told KNO that a missing report was lodged on September 26 regarding Aijaz Ahmad Dar, son of Abdul Majeed Dar, a resident of Darpora, Hallpora, Gadool in Kokernag. He said police had assured the protesters that the case would be investigated fairly and taken to its logical conclusion. The protesters dispersed following the assurance.(KNO)
After Haryana, Kashmir-bound bus attacked with stones near Ludhiana in Punjab
LUDHIANA, Oct 19: A Srinagar-bound passenger bus was allegedly attacked with stones near Doraha in Punjabs Ludhiana district late Sunday night, leaving its windowpanes shattered but passengers unharmed. The incident occurred less than 24 hours after a similar attack on a Kashmir-bound bus in Haryanas Karnal district injured two people. The latest attack took place [] The post After Haryana, Kashmir-bound bus attacked with stones near Ludhiana in Punjab appeared first on Northlines .
Amritsar police seize 10 pistols and 1.022 kg heroin, three accused arrested
Punjab Police arrested three people in Amritsar and seized 10 pistols and 1.022 kg of heroin, DGP Gaurav Yadav said. Preliminary investigations suggest links with foreign-based smugglers. An FIR has been registered, and police are tracing the network's wider connections
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Oct 19 (IANS) India's semiconductor ecosystem is steadily taking shape with 12 approved projects across six states, backed by more than Rs 1.64 lakh crore in committed investments, former NITI Aayog CEO and G20 Sherpa Amitabh Kant said on Monday. Sharing a graphic titled The New Semiconductor Map of India on social media platform X, Kant said the country's semiconductor future is taking shape through a growing network of fabrication, packaging, testing, and advanced technology facilities. 6 states and 12 approved projects, backed by Rs 1.64 lakh crore+ in committed investments. Indias semiconductor future is taking shape! he stated. Gujarat has emerged as the biggest hub for semiconductor investments. The state hosts six approved projects, including the Tata-PSMC semiconductor fabrication plant at Dholera with an investment of Rs 91,526 crore and a planned capacity of more than 50,000 wafers per month. Other major projects in the state include Micron Technology's DRAM and NAND assembly and test facility at Sanand with an investment of Rs 22,516 crore, and the CG Power-Renesas-Stars semiconductor OSAT facility involving Rs 7,584 crore of investment. The state is also home to facilities being developed by Kaynes Semicon, Crystal Matrix, and Suchi Semicon, covering semiconductor packaging, compound semiconductors, mini-LED technologies, and discrete semiconductor manufacturing. In Assam, Tata Semiconductor Assembly and Test is setting up an OSAT and packaging facility involving an investment of Rs 27,120 crore with a proposed capacity of around 48 million units per day. Odisha has secured two projects. SiCSem is developing a silicon carbide fabrication and packaging facility with an investment of Rs 2,066 crore, while 3D Glass Solutions is establishing an advanced packaging and 3D integration project with an investment of Rs 1,943 crore. Andhra Pradesh is hosting an Advanced System in Package (ASIP) facility focused on system-in-package technologies with an investment of about Rs 480 crore and a proposed capacity of nearly 96 million units annually. Punjab is also part of the emerging semiconductor ecosystem, with CDIL setting up a power semiconductor project involving an investment of Rs 117 crore.
Experience The New Punjabi Music Video 'Versace' by JackBars
Get ready to be swept away by the latest punjabi track 'Versace' beautifully sung by JackBars. This captivating track feature mesmerizing music given by JackBars and beautiful lyrics are also penned by JackBars. Don't miss the chance to witness JackBars's performance in the captivating punjabi video track 'Versace'. Dive into a world of musical excellence by exploring more punjabi tracks in the music videos section of punjabi Etimes. Discover the incredible vocal talents of JackBars. Indulge in the latest punjabi video tracks of 2026, groove to the soulful compositions by JackBars, immerse in the punjabi music video tracks.
Experience The New Punjabi Music Video 'Kajla' by Kaur B
Get ready to be swept away by the latest punjabi track 'Kajla' beautifully sung by Kaur B. This captivating track feature mesmerizing music given by Black Virus and beautiful lyrics are penned by Guri Sangali. Don't miss the chance to witness Kaur B's performance in the captivating punjabi video track 'Kajla'. Dive into a world of musical excellence by exploring more punjabi tracks in the music videos section of punjabi Etimes. Discover the incredible vocal talents of Kaur B. Indulge in the latest punjabi video tracks of 2026, groove to the soulful compositions by Black Virus , immerse in the punjabi music video tracks.
Experience The New Punjabi Music Video 'Chor' by Amber
Get ready to be swept away by the latest punjabi track 'Chor' beautifully sung by Amber. This captivating track feature mesmerizing music given by Prodgk and beautiful lyrics are penned by Amber. Don't miss the chance to witness Amber's performance in the captivating punjabi video track 'Chor'. Dive into a world of musical excellence by exploring more punjabi tracks in the music videos section of punjabi Etimes. Discover the incredible vocal talents of Amber. Indulge in the latest punjabi video tracks of 2026, groove to the soulful compositions by Prodgk, immerse in the punjabi music video tracks.
Digital Desk | Sangrur, Oct 19 (IANS) After an out-of-control car left eight VB-G RAM G workers dead and 12 others injured, Punjab Cabinet Ministers Harpal Singh Cheema and Barinder Kumar Goyal met the victims at the hospitals where they are being treated. Cheema said the Punjab government would bear the entire cost of the medical treatment of the injured labourers and would provide financial assistance of Rs 2 lakh to the family of each deceased worker. In a shocking incident, eight workers, including six women, were killed and 12 others were injured after a speeding car ploughed into a group of workers taking a break along the Jakhal-Lehra road near Alisher village in Punjabs Sangrur district on Sunday evening. The injured workers are undergoing treatment at hospitals in Sangrur and Patiala. According to officials, seven injured workers are being treated at the Civil Hospital in Sangrur, while four others are admitted to Rajindra Hospital in Patiala. After meeting the victims, Cheema said their health conditions were generally stable and that doctors had indicated they would require another four to five days of treatment. He assured the injured workers and their families that the Punjab government would bear the entire cost of their medical treatment. Expressing grief over the deaths, Cheema also announced that the state government would provide financial assistance of Rs 2 lakh to the family of each deceased worker. Cheema said, Today, we met the injured people, and their health conditions are generally stable. The doctor has said that they need 4-5 more days to be treated. All the expenses of the treatment will be borne by the Punjab government. The government will give Rs 2 lakh each to the kin of the deceased, Chima said while expressing his sorrow over the deaths. Goyal described the incident as tragic, saying the victims were poor labourers who had been working under the VB-G RAM G with hopes and expectations of earning a livelihood. Goyal added that the administration had been actively responding to the incident since Sunday evening. He said Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, who is currently in France, had called him to enquire about the situation and had directed the government to stand by the affected families. The entire administration is actively working on the matter since last evening. CM Bhagwant Mann has gone to France. He called me from there. We are standing with the people who lost their loved ones, he said. Meanwhile, Punjab Congress President Pargat Singh also expressed grief over the incident, calling it deeply tragic. He urged people to remain composed and exercise restraint in the aftermath of the tragedy. Congress MP Gurjeet Singh Aujla, meanwhile, questioned the response of those seeking to visit the affected area, arguing that the situation and the challenges faced by the administration should already be known to those in positions of responsibility. Referring to security concerns in Punjab, Aujla said the International Border was only around 50 kms away and raised concerns over the alleged cross-border movement of drones, drugs and narcotics, as well as attacks on police personnel. He said authorities should first take cognisance of such issues before visiting victims to offer condolences. The incident has prompted visits by state ministers and political leaders, with the government assuring financial and medical assistance to the affected families.
Major Drug And Arms Network Busted In Punjab
Punjab Police have successfully dismantled a significant drug trafficking and illegal arms smuggling network in Amritsar, leading to the arrest of three individuals. Authorities recovered 10 pistols and over a kilogram of heroin, with investigations pointing to foreign-based smugglers supplying weapons to criminal elements.
US-Designated Lashkar-e-Taiba Operative Muhammad Sarwar Dies in Lahore
LAHORE, Oct 18: Muhammad Sarwar, a senior Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) operative designated a Specially Designated Global Terrorist by the US Treasury Department in 2016, died in Pakistans Lahore on Sunday under circumstances that have not been officially clarified. Sarwar, president of the Punjab chapter of Pakistan Markazi Muslim League (PMML), collapsed while reportedly on his way [] The post US-Designated Lashkar-e-Taiba Operative Muhammad Sarwar Dies in Lahore appeared first on Northlines .
PSU bank stocks surged up to 8% on Monday, led by Punjab National Bank after its Q2FY27 earnings beat estimates. In contrast, private lenders such as Axis Bank and HDFC Bank fell up to 5% despite reporting profit growth. The Nifty PSU Bank index gained over 2%, while its private-sector counterpart declined.
Ludhiana school horror: Peon gropes, kisses 16-year-old student in office, records video
Candlelight Vigil and Tribute Held in New York in Memory of Bhai Parvinder Singh Khalsa
The Parvinder Singh Jhota Candlelight Vigil was held in Richmond Hill, New York, in memory of Bhai Parvinder Singh Khalsa Jhota. Sikh organizations, community representatives and sangat paid tribute, expressed sympathy with his family and raised concerns over the drug crisis in Punjab. The post Candlelight Vigil and Tribute Held in New York in Memory of Bhai Parvinder Singh Khalsa Jhota appeared first on Sikh Siyasat News .
Punjab FC look to build on winning start as Mumbai City seek ISL response
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Oct 19 (IANS) Punjab FC will look to maintain their early momentum when they host Mumbai City FC at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium on Monday, while the Islanders will be eager to register their first points of the MG Indian Super League 2026-27 season after suffering an opening-day setback. Punjab made a dramatic start to their campaign, with Raphael Messi Bouli scoring in the opening minute and striking again in stoppage time to secure a 2-1 victory over Odisha FC. The result handed head coach Pavlos Dermitzakis three points in his first match in charge, but the Greek tactician has warned against reading too much into the opening result. There is no advantage for any team, Dermitzakis said, emphasising that teams are still working towards establishing their identity at this stage of the season. He also acknowledged the challenge posed by Mumbai City, who will be determined to respond after losing 2-1 to Churchill Brothers SC. With three consecutive away league fixtures awaiting Punjab after Mondays contest, the hosts will be keen to make home advantage count. However, a short turnaround between matches has limited their preparation time, making discipline and efficient recovery crucial. Mumbai City, meanwhile, will aim to address the shortcomings that cost them points in their opening fixture. Despite creating opportunities early against Churchill Brothers, the Islanders struggled to convert their possession into goals before conceding twice in the second half. Head coach Manolo Marquez remains confident that his side can recover from the disappointment, stressing that the outcome of an opening match need not dictate the course of an entire campaign. Its not how you start, its always how you finish the season, Marquez said. Defender Carlos Delgado expects a closely contested encounter and believes Mumbai must be sharper in the decisive moments. Having watched Punjab overcome Odisha, he highlighted the hosts attacking threat and stressed the importance of winning individual duels, competing for second balls and maintaining defensive organisation. The games will be equal, very tough for both, Delgado said, suggesting that a small detail could ultimately determine the result. Mondays fixture also offers Punjab an opportunity to avenge their previous meeting with Mumbai, who won 2-0 in New Delhi in May after Valpuia and Vikram Partap Singh scored late against a nine-man Punjab side. With Punjab aiming to consolidate their promising start and Mumbai chasing a response, both sides face an early test of their ambitions for the new season.
Kanika Mann says family considers her zero until she has children
Digital Desk | Mumbai, Oct 19 (IANS) Actress Kanika Mann recently opened up about the pressure she faces from her family to have children. Sharing a candid and humorous anecdote about how her worth is seemingly tied to motherhood, the actress while in a conversation with actor Aasif Khan in Bigg Boss 20 episode, Kanika revealed that her family members consider her zero, until she has two or three children, leaving her amused by their expectations. 'My family members count me as zero. Until I give them two or three kids. Till then am zero,' Kanika said. Reacting to her revelation, Aasif shared how his own mother has repeatedly urged him to get married and have children. He explained that while she once expressed her wishes directly, she now drops hints in amusing ways. He added how she often overlooks his professional achievements and focuses instead on when he will become a father. Aasif then recounted an incident when he and his family had booked tickets for Umrah. Excited about the trip, he announced that he had good news for his mother, only for her to assume that he was about to tell her he was going to become a father. 'Once, what happened was that we booked tickets for Umrah. I'm such an idiot. I shouted downstairs, Mom, good news, good news! My mom stood up and said, What are you talking about? I said, We're going to Umrah. My mom sat down again and said, I thought you were going to give me good news on the third day. I said, Mom, think of something else other than this. There are a lot of things other than kids. He added, 'I called my mom a few days ago, before coming here. I said, Mom, good news! She said, I am happy now you will make me a grandmother. I said, I am going to Bigg Boss, Mom. I am telling you, I'm going to Bigg Boss. For the uninitiated, Kanika is best known for playing the titular role in the television show 'Guddan Tumse Na Ho Payega'. She has also participated in 'Fear Factor: Khatron Ke Khiladi 12' and featured in shows such as 'Chand Jalne Laga' and 'Naagin 7'. Her work also includes Punjabi films such as 'Rocky Mental' and 'Daana Paani'. Aasif, meanwhile, has made a mark in the digital entertainment space with performances in popular series such as 'Mirzapur', 'Panchayat', 'Paatal Lok' and 'Jamtara: Sabka Number Ayega'. He is particularly recognised for playing Babar in 'Mirzapur' and Ganesh in 'Panchayat'.
Srinagar: The body of a labourer from Kokernag who had been missing for several days was found in Punjab and has reached his home, officials said on Monday. Officials said that a missing report was lodged on September 26 regarding Aijaz Ahmad Dar, son of Abdul Majeed Dar, resident of Darpora, Hallpora, Gadool Kokernag, aged []
Mansa Murder: Diljit Dosanjh Backs Justice For Anti-Drug Activist
Punjabi singer Diljit Dosanjh has called for justice for anti-drug activist Parvinder Singh Jhota, who was shot dead in Mansa last week. Jhota was killed after confronting a medical store owner selling addictive drugs. His family and supporters are protesting, demanding a CBI probe and refusing cremation until justice is served, with actress Neeru Bajwa and singer Babbu Mann also showing support.
Missing Kokernag labourer found dead in Punjab; family stages protest, alleges murder
Srinagar, Oct 19: The body of a labourer from Kokernag who had been missing for several days was found dead in Punjab and has reached his home, officials said on Monday. Officials told GNS that a missing report was lodged on September 26 regarding Aijaz Ahmad Dar, son of Abdul Majeed Dar, resident of Darpora, Hallpora, Gadool Kokernag, aged 28-29 years, who had left home for labour work. According to the family, Dar had first gone to Srinagar about 20 days ago and stayed there for around 10 days before leaving for Ludhiana, Punjab in search of work. The family said they were in regular telephonic contact with him for about a week, after which his phone was switched off and contact was lost. On October 17, locals of Hallpora along with the family members staged a protest over his continued disappearance, expressing apprehensions about his safety and demanding immediate efforts to trace him. The protest ended peacefully after intervention and assurance from SDPO Kokernag and SHO Police Station Kokernag. Today, the body of the missing youth was recovered in Punjab and later brought to his native village in Kokernag. Soon after the body reached home, family members along with locals staged a protest outside Police Station Kokernag, alleging that he was murdered and demanding a thorough investigation into the case. Police has assured that the case will be taken to its logical conclusion. The protesters dispersed peacefully after police assurance.(GNS)
PSSSB Clerk result 2026 expected at sssb.punjab.gov.in: Check steps to download written results here
Ranji Trophy: Deshpande stars for Mumbai; Punjabs Gill flops
Mumbai reached 107 for two in 36 overs at stumps, needing just 33 more runs to take the lead with eight wickets in hand
Sachin Pilot criticises Punjab government over surge in extortion, gun violence and drug deaths
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Haryana CM Nayab Singh Saini criticises Punjab over drug crisis
The News Mill
Teja Singh Samundris legacy takes centre stage in BJPs pro-Sikh push in Punjab
As the centenary of his martyrdom is being observed this year, the BJPs top leadership, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah, have frequently invoked Samundris legacy at public rallies
CBI questions former Punjab Deputy Speaker amid corruption probe
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Rajnath Singh expresses grief over Sangrur road accident that killed 8
A speeding car rammed into MGNREGA workers who were drinking water by the roadside in Alisher village in Punjab's Sangrur district when the incident occured
Aryans Group of College students showcase cultural diversity at Dandiya Night
Rajpura (Punjab), Oct 18: Students of Aryans Group of Colleges, Rajpura, near Chandigarh, showcased their talent through vibrant Garba and Dandiya performances during the institutions Dandiya Night 2026 celebrations. Dressed in colourful traditional attire, students filled the campus with music, dance and festive enthusiasm during the Navratri celebrations. They also offered prayers to Maa Durga, seeking her blessings on the auspicious occasion. Dr Anshu Kataria, Chairman of Aryans Group of Colleges, said the institution focused not only on academic excellence but also on the cultural and personal development of students. He said such celebrations promoted unity among students from different states and reflected Indias diversity. Students from around 20 states, including Jammu and Kashmir, Punjab, Himachal Pradesh, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar and Arunachal Pradesh, participated in the event. Students pursuing engineering, law, nursing, pharmacy, physiotherapy, management, computer applications, education and various medical and allied health sciences courses took part in the celebrations. The event also highlighted womens empowerment by providing female students an opportunity to display their talent, confidence and creativity beyond academics.
Making paddy pay: SKUAST-Ks bid to stem Kashmirs rice cultivation decline
Srinagar, Oct 18:Construction and expanding apple orchards are eating into Kashmirs paddy fields, while rising rice imports point to growing dependence on supplies from outside Jammu and Kashmir. The Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir (SKUAST-K) is exploring ways to make rice cultivation more profitable through mechanisation, disease-resistant varieties and improved traditional rice. At its Mountain Research Centre for Field Crops (MRCFC) in Khudwani, Kulgam, the university has demonstrated mechanised dry direct-seeded rice (DSR), which scientists say can reduce cultivation costs by around 50% and water use by 3040%. DrTasneem Mubarak, professor of agronomy at MRCFC, said the demonstration compared DSR with conventional cultivation, assessing both yield and production costs. We demonstrated DSR on a large scale by mechanising it completely and then compared it with traditional rice cultivation practices. We studied not only the yield but also its economics, Mubarak said. Machinery was used for tilling, sowing, basalfertiliser application, harvesting and threshing, reducing dependence on manual labour. The objective was to reduce labour cost and ensure overall sustainability of rice cultivation using technology. So, the cost of cultivation came down substantially, Mubarak said. DSR involves sowing seeds directly in the field instead of raising seedlings in a nursery and transplanting them. Dr Mubarak said the method could also ease pressure on irrigation resources. Since water availability for irrigation remains a major problem during rice cultivation, particularly at the sowing and transplanting stages, this technology needed less water with climate change and depleting water resources. So, we can conserve 30 to 40 per cent of water, he said. Dr Mubarak said DSR could also reduce greenhouse gas emissions by limiting prolonged flooding of rice fields, though the extent of the reduction would depend on field conditions and cultivation practices. Weed control remains a challenge in direct-seeded rice. Dr Farooq Ahmad Sheikh, professor of plant breeding and genetics at SKUAST-K, said timely herbicide application was important to protect yields. Herbicides, or weedicides, can help control weeds and reduce the need for manual labour. However, their effectiveness depends on timely and appropriate application. Poor weed management can reduce yields and offset the savings from mechanisation, Dr Farooq said. Dr Mubarak said the universitys extension wing and the Agriculture Department would reach out to farmers promote the technology. Its performance and economic benefits will need to be assessed on farmers to fields. Disease-resistant varieties target crop losses SKUAST-K is developing rice varieties suited to Kashmirs plains and mid- and high-altitude areas, focusing on yield, grain quality and resistance to rice blast, a fungal disease that can damage crops. Dr Farooq said Shalimar Rice 4, popularly known as the 10-tonne variety, had a potential yield of around 10 tonnes per hectare under suitable conditions. The university has also developed improved genetic lines resistant to blast. A proposed blast-resistant Kashmiri Basmati variety, Sugan-1, is undergoing mini-kit trials with the Agriculture Department in Tanghdar, Kupwara. We will send a proposal, following which it would be released by next year, 2027, Dr Farooq said. He said Sugan-1 could fetch around Rs 100 per kilogram, depending on grain quality and market conditions. SKUAST-K is also working to revive a blast-resistant red rice variety that could potentially command around Rs 150 per kilogram. These are indicative prices, not guaranteed farm-gate rates. The university is also working to conserve and expand traditional varieties, including Mushkbudji, an aromatic rice associated with Sagam in Kokernag, and Kashmiri Basmati. Paddy acreage falls as apple cultivation expands Jammu and Kashmirs paddy area declined from 304,500 hectares in 2015-16 to 258,840 hectares in 2024-25, a loss of 45,660 hectares, or nearly 15%. Over a longer period, apple cultivation increased from 107,930 hectares in 2004-05 to 173,073 hectares in 2024-25, a rise of around 60%. Dr Mubarak said not all paddy fields were suitable for orchards. Low-lying land with high moisture content often favours rice, while excess moisture in orchards could cause root rot and other diseases, he said. A Landsat-based study published in 2019 found that agricultural land in the Kashmir Valley declined by around 28% between 1992 and 2015, while plantation cover increased by about 88%. A separate study of the Kashmir Himalaya between 1990 and 2017 found cropland had declined by nearly 5%, while horticulture expanded by around 4.3%. The studies identified economic, demographic and natural factors behind the changes and raised concerns about food security. Government data show that rice supplies from outside Jammu and Kashmir increased from 3.74 lakh tonnes in 2022-23 to 4.36 lakh tonnes in 2023-24 and 4.86 lakh tonnes in 2024-25. The supplies come largely from Punjab and Haryana through the Food Corporation of India. With cultivable land accounting for just 4.4% of Jammu and Kashmirs geographical area, the continued loss of agricultural fields adds to pressure on local food production. For SKUAST-K, the challenge is to turn research into better returns for farmers. Mechanisation and improved varieties could help sustain paddy cultivation, but success will depend on reliable yields, access to machinery and quality seeds, technical support and dependable markets. The decisive test will be whether the reported savings and improved varieties translate into higher net returns on farmers fields.
Me, the bard out of work, the Lord has appointed to His service. In The post Nankana Sahib appeared first on Khalsa Vox .
For several families of Indian hockey players, the upcoming Asian Champions Trophy in Jalandhar The post Punjab Hockey Stars Families Await Emotional Homecoming appeared first on Khalsa Vox .
Asian Champions Trophy Brings Indian Hockey Stars Back to Their Roots in Jalandhar
The upcoming Asian Champions Trophy at the Olympian Surjit Hockey Stadium promises to be The post Asian Champions Trophy Brings Indian Hockey Stars Back to Their Roots in Jalandhar appeared first on Khalsa Vox .
Rajnath Singh expresses grief over Sangrur accident; Punjab CM announces Rs 2 lakh ex-gratia
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Chhole, rajmah on Punjabs plate in Paris: CM launches new products
Shah to visit Punjab on Oct 20; to meet families of anti-drug activist, Dalit suicide victim
Eight labourers killed, 12 hurt in Punjab road accident
Eight workers were killed and 12 injured when a speeding car ran them over on the Lehragaga-Jakhal road in Sangrur, Punjab, on Sunday. The incident, which occurred near Alisher village, involved workers engaged under the VB-G RAM G scheme. Allegations of significant ambulance delays have emerged. Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann announced Rs 2 lakh compensation for the deceased's families and free treatment for the injured, promising swift arrest of the absconding driver.
Congress MP Pawan Khera Criticizes Punjab Government Over Law and Order Issues
Pawan Khera slams Punjab and central governments, asserting public discontent over law and order and drug issues in the state. Congress MP Pawan Khera Criticizes Punjab Government Over Law and Order Issues
Allow poppy cultivation to tackle drug issue: NGO to Punjab govt
Security, economy 1st step to Ram Rajya in Punjab: Haryana CM
Saini pushes BJP's Punjab ambitions, flags drug menace and highlights OBC welfare
Punjabi Sahit Akademi honours poet Mohan Singh on his 121st birth anniversary
Looming crisis: Textile centre struggles with old machinery
Greener pastures ahead for horse breeders in Punjab
Punjab CM Unveils New Sohna Products at SIAL Paris to Boost Global Market Presence
Punjabs CM Bhagwant Mann launches new Sohna products at SIAL Paris, enhancing the states agricultural export potential. Punjab CM Unveils New Sohna Products at SIAL Paris to Boost Global Market Presence
Tragic Road Accident in Sangrur Claims Eight Lives, Chief Minister Offers Compensation
A fatal accident in Sangrur, Punjab, involving female workers has resulted in eight deaths, prompting government support and compensation. Tragic Road Accident in Sangrur Claims Eight Lives, Chief Minister Offers Compensation
Punjab National Bank Targets Rs 60,000 Crore In Income For Next Few Quarters
PNB has already posted a net profit of Rs 5,500 crore and is targeting further growth in operating profit.
The Punjab and Haryana High Court has ruled that Haryana government employees cannot be denied medical reimbursement for dependent parents solely because they receive a 3,000 monthly old-age pension, directing authorities to release admissible claims within two months.
MP Calls For CBI Probe In Jhota Murder Case
Faridkot MP Sarabjeet Singh Khalsa has formally requested the Union Home Ministry to initiate a CBI investigation into the murder of anti-drug activist Parvinder Singh Jhota in Mansa. Jhota was shot on October 13 while exposing illegal drug sales, and the incident has sparked outrage in Punjab. Khalsa expressed concerns about the local police probe and the accused's alleged criminal history, questioning the issuance of an arms license.
Amit Shah to meet families of Punjab drug-trade victims on Oct 19, vows crackdown on chitta trade
Eight workers mowed down by speeding car in Punjab's Sangrur; 12 injured
Eight workers tragically lost their lives after being struck by a speeding car in Punjab's Sangrur district. The incident occurred on Lehragaga-Jakhal road near Alisher village while the workers were engaged in their duties. Authorities indicated that five workers died on the spot, while others sustained varying degrees of injuries. The district administration is providing necessary medical assistance to the injured individuals following the accident.
8 MGNREGA Workers Killed in Punjab as Speeding Car Hits Labourers in Sangrur
Sangrur: Eight workers employed under the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA) were killed and 12 injured when a speeding car ran over a group of labourers in Alisher village in Sangrur district of Punjab on Sunday. The workers
Tragic Road Accident in Sangrur Claims Lives of Nine Female Laborers
A tragic road accident in Sangrur, Punjab, has resulted in the deaths of nine female laborers, with several others injured. Tragic Road Accident in Sangrur Claims Lives of Nine Female Laborers
CDM 2026 brings Punjabi Music Stars together in Sacramento
ORIGINAL ARTICLE: CDM 2026 brings Punjabi Music Stars together in Sacramento CDM 2026 took place in Sacramento on October 17, featuring NAV, Prem Dhillon, Garry Sandhu, Jassa Dhillon and more than 20 artists. The post CDM 2026 brings Punjabi Music Stars together in Sacramento appeared first on DESIblitz .
Five mowed down by speeding car in Punjab's Sangrur; several injured
According to an eyewitness, the group of workers were sitting on the roadside when the speeding car mowed them down
8 Road Workers Run Over By Car In Punjab's Sangrur, Witnesses Say They Died Waiting For Ambulance
A witness at the site near Chotian village in the Lehragaga area of Sangrur district said victims lay suffering on the roadside while authorities insisted on completing formalities before arriving. These poor people died waiting; many of them bled to death, he said.
ISL: Defending champions East Bengal FC outclass Churchill Brothers 4-0 in dominant display
Digital Desk | Fatorda, Oct 18 (IANS) Defending champions East Bengal FC made a resounding start to their Indian Super League 2026-27 campaign, registering a dominant 4-0 victory over Churchill Brothers at the PJN Stadium, in Fatorda, on Sunday. Goals from Dani Ramirez, Edmund Lalrindika and substitute Bipin Singh (2) sealed the points for Antonio Habas side, in what was the biggest win of the season so far. The torchbearers took the lead as early as the second minute through a stunning free-kick from Dani Ramrez. The midfielder struck with his left foot from just outside the penalty area, curling the ball into the top-left corner. Churchill Brothers responded with urgency, raising the tempo and creating opportunities to get back into the contest. The home side came close to finding an equaliser and even struck the woodwork, but East Bengal remained defensively organised to preserve their advantage. The visitors doubled their lead towards the end of the first half with a well-worked attacking move as David Hmar received the ball on the left, held it up before picking out Edmund, who made a timely run into the box to finish past Sayad Kadir in the Churchill Brothers goal. The strike would send East Bengal into the half-time break with a comfortable 2-0 lead. Both teams would create chances in the early exchanges of the second period, however the hosts would struggle to make their opportunities count in the final third, while East Bengal remained composed with a two-goal advantage. Habas introduced Bipin Singh in the second half, and the move paid off in the 85th minute as the winger scored a superb curling effort into the top corner to make it 3-0. Bipin struck again five minutes later to complete his brace. PV Vishnu delivered a cross from the left, which Singh finished to extend East Bengal's lead and seal the points. The defending champions have made a strong statement at the start of their campaign, while Churchill Brothers, who began their season with a promising 1-0 win over Mumbai City FC, will look to bounce back when they face Punjab FC in a weeks time.
National Hockey: Haryana, Punjab, MP, UP In Semis
Haryana, Punjab, Madhya Pradesh, and Uttar Pradesh have advanced to the Division A semifinals of the 16th Hockey India Senior Men National Championship after securing victories in their respective quarterfinal matches on Sunday.
Rinku Singh Shines Again with Century as Ranji Trophy Heats Up
Rinku Singh scores a brilliant century in the Ranji Trophy, while Uday Saharan leads Punjab to a strong position against Chhattisgarh. Rinku Singh Shines Again with Century as Ranji Trophy Heats Up
Ranji Trophy: Saharans unbeaten ton drives Punjabs innings
8 workers killed as speeding car runs them over in Punjabs Sangrur
Ranji Trophy: Saharan Ton Overshadows Gill's Return, Rinku, Arya, Badoni Hit Centuries
Skipper Uday Saharan: Skipper Uday Saharan struck an unbeaten century to rescue Punjab after Shubman Gill's return to the Ranji Trophy lasted just five balls, while Rinku Singh, Priyansh Arya and Ayush Badoni also notched up hundreds on day one of the second round of the prestigious competition on Sunday. In the Elite Group B clash at the new PCA Stadium in New Chandigarh, Saharan's unbeaten 106, laced with 13 fours, lifted Punjab to 269/4 against Chhattisgarh. Rinku's 118 not out, coming off 186 balls and laced with 11 fours and two sixes, pulled Uttar Pradesh out of trouble to 202 Goa, before the latter reached 43/0 in 12 overs. Arya, playing his first game of the season, fell one run short of a maiden double hundred in first-class cricket, while captain Badoni hit 115 not out to put Delhi in command by taking them to 381/4 against Gujarat. Saharan, who captained India to runners-up finish in the 2024 Mens U19 World Cup, used the sweep and the slog sweep to good effect against Chhattisgarh's left-arm spin pair of Dharmendrasinh Jadeja and Ajay Mandal. Openers Vihaan Malhotra (40 off 77 balls) and Harnoor Pannu put on another half-century stand to see off the new ball, before the duo were trapped lbw by Jadeja and Mandal respectively. Gill, playing his first Ranji game of the season before departing for India's tour of New Zealand, came in at number four but fell for one. Mandal drew him forward and beat him through the gate to knock back the stumps. Saharan and Prabhsimran Singh (62 off 133 balls) then rebuilt the innings with a 130-run stand for the fourth wicket. Though Prabhsimran was trapped lbw by Jadeja before tea break arrived, Saharan marched forward to bring up his third first-class hundred off 168 balls. Wicketkeeper-batter Salil Arora (38 not out off 75 balls) ensured Punjab added 71 runs in the final session without further loss. In Elite Group A game at Green Park in Kanpur, Rinku hit his 11th first-class century, his second in successive games this season, to single-handedly drag Uttar Pradesh from 137/9 to 202 against Goa. At Reliance Stadium in Vadodara, Raj Limbani's four-wicket haul helped Baroda bowl out Bihar for 166, before they reached 77/3. At Sher-i-Kashmir Stadium in Srinagar, debutant Kawalpreet Singh fell four runs short of a century but rescued defending champions Jammu and Kashmir, who were all out for 260 in 82.5 overs against Vidarbha. Meanwhile, Madhya Pradesh's pacers bowled out Puducherry for 177, with the former finishing on 23/ 2 at stumps. In Elite Group B, a maiden fifty from Manvanth Kumar led a lower-order fightback for Karnataka, who reached 281/8 after birthday boy Jaydev Unadkat and Chetan Sakariya had made early inroads for Saurashtra in Alur. Sibsankar Roy's half-century steered Assam to 228/6 against Tripura, while Andhra spinners Saurabh Kumar and T Vijay bowled out Hyderabad for 275. Andhra were 9 for no loss at stumps and trail by 266 runs. In Elite Group C, without veteran pacer Mohammed Shami, Bengal were bowled out for 184 by Services, but the visitors came back to leave the hosts at 83/5. Sachin Baby's unbeaten 112 rescued Kerala, who reached 245/6 against Odisha. Left-arm spin bowling all-rounder Vicky Ostwal's four-wicket haul helped Maharashtra dismiss Jharkhand for 169, with the hosts reaching 85/3 at stumps at Pune. In Elite Group D, Mumbai bowled out Himachal Pradesh for 140 at Bilaspur and were 107/2 at stumps, and trail by just 33 runs. At the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai, left-arm pacer Gurjapneet Singh (4-34) and left-arm spinner and captain R Sai Kishore (4-40) shared eight wickets as Tamil Nadu bowled out Uttarakhand for 134 in 56.2 overs. Avneesh Sudha top-scored for Uttarakhand with 54 off 103 balls, hitting seven fours, while Mayank Mishra chipped in with a patient 33 off 114 deliveries, including hitting a four and two sixes. In reply, Tamil Nadu reached 85/2 in 27 overs at stumps and trail by 49 runs. N Jagadeesan made 37 off 53 balls, while Pradosh Ranjan Paul was unbeaten on 37 off 73 deliveries. Overnight rain in Chennai and a wet outfield delayed the start until 10.30 am, and bad light brought an early end to the day's play at 5.28 pm. Avneesh Sudha top-scored for Uttarakhand with 54 off 103 balls, hitting seven fours, while Mayank Mishra chipped in with a patient 33 off 114 deliveries, including hitting a four and two sixes. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
Five Workers Killed In Punjab Road Mishap
A tragic car accident on Sunday in Sangrur, Punjab, resulted in the deaths of five workers and injuries to several others when a speeding car ran over them on the Lehragaga-Jakhar road.
Shubman Gill Lasts Just Five Balls on Ranji Return
Punjab captain Uday Saharan scored an unbeaten 106 to guide his team to 269 for four against Chhattisgarh on Day 1 of their Ranji Trophy match. This came after India skipper Shubman Gill was dismissed for just one run. In another match, Manvanth Kumar's 86 not out helped Karnataka recover against Saurashtra.
Punjab BJP Chief Wears Black Turban in Solidarity for Justice in Activists Murder Case
Punjab BJP President Kaul Singh Dhillon pledges to wear a black turban until justice is served for activist Parvinder Singh Jhottas murder. Punjab BJP Chief Wears Black Turban in Solidarity for Justice in Activists Murder Case
Deepak Prasher, Preeti Sapru, Ganesh Jain and Kumar Mohan Reach Katra to Grace AIDSC Mega Final
Katra, October 18: Renowned film personalities Deepak Prasher, Preeti Sapru, Ganesh Jain and Kumar Mohan have reached Katra to grace the Mega Final of the All India Devotional Song Competition (AIDSC), scheduled to be held on October 19 as part of the Navratra Festival 2026. The personalities will be among the judges for the prestigious competition. Interacting with the media here, Rakesh Wazir, Chairman of the Navratra Festivals All India Devotional Song Competition Committee and President of the Hotel and Restaurant Association, Katra, introduced the visiting film personalities and highlighted their contributions to the film industry. Deepak Prasher is known for his performances in films such as _Insaaf Ka Tarazu_, _Nikaah_ and _Sharaabi_. Preeti Sapru, a prominent actress in Punjabi cinema, has featured in films including _Qurbani Jat Di_, _Lawaris_, _Nimmo_, _Yaari Jat Di_, _Avtaar_ and _Sarpanch_. Ganesh Jain, Managing Director of Venus Records & Tapes Ltd., has been associated with the production of more than 50 films, including _Baazigar_, _Baadshah_, _Dhadkan_, _Josh_ and _Main Khiladi Tu Anari_. His upcoming film _Dhadkan 2_ is scheduled for release shortly. Kumar Mohan, a well-known film trade analyst, has also been associated with films such as _Libaas_, _Aarzoo_ and _Adhura Aadmi_. Mr. Wazir said that the presence of these distinguished personalities, along with other prominent media figures, would add to the attraction of the Mega Final and inspire aspiring singers participating in the competition. The Silver Jubilee edition of the All India Devotional Song Competition is being organised by the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board, the Department of J&K Tourism and the PTC Network, in association with SMVD Narayana Super Speciality Hospital, J&K Bank, Nice Gems, Nidheesh Builders Jammu Pvt. Ltd., Hotel & Restaurant Association Katra, PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Jammu Region, and Yog Ashram Complex, with the active support of the District Administration. Highlighting the objective of the competition, Mr. Wazir said that it aims to promote devotional music dedicated to Maa Vaishno Devi Ji, provide a national platform to talented singers and contribute to the promotion of tourism in Jammu and Kashmir. The Mega Final will be held at Yog Ashram Complex, Katra, with **free entry for the public**. The event will also be telecast live on PTC Punjabi Gold from 9 PM onwards. Apart from performances by the finalists, the audience will witness special performances by renowned singers Inderjit Nikku, Shanker Sawhney, Sonali Dogra, Laisel Roy and Ravi Kumar. Mr. Wazir noted that the competition has played a significant role in nurturing musical talent and providing opportunities to singers who have subsequently made their mark in the entertainment industry. Its past participants and winners include Himani Kapoor, Sonali Dogra, Mool Raj, Naveen Punjabi, Rajan Gill, Ravi Kumar, Sanjeet Kumar, Anjusha, Vanshika Jaral and Ananya, among others. Himani Kapoor has lent her voice to films such as _Dil Diya Hai_, _Chingari_, _Oye Lucky! Lucky Oye!_, _Fool & Final_ and _Bachna Ae Haseeno_. Several other participants have also achieved success in the music and entertainment industry and gained recognition through reality shows such as _Zee TV Sa Re Ga Ma Pa_, _Voice of Punjab_ and _Awaz Punjab Di_. He further said that personalities from the film industry have consistently contributed to the success of AIDSC, and their presence has been a major source of encouragement and attraction for contestants from across the country. The competition offers gold worth Rs 3 lakh as the first prize , along with a recording contract with Venus Worldwide for the winner. The second prize carries Rs 1 lakh, while the third prize is Rs 50,000. The prizes will be presented on the day of the Mega Final. Meanwhile, the quarter-final round witnessed enthusiastic participation, with Additional SP Katra Kameshwar Puri attending as the Chief Guest. Renowned folk singer Ustad Swarn Singh Yamla, former AIDSC winner Kiran Baba, noted cartoonist Sagar Kumar and DySP Bhisham Dubey were among the distinguished guests. Twenty participants competed in the quarter-final for places in the next round. Of these, ten singersStanzin, Mohinder Soni, Aarav Wazir, Ayati Sharma, Vicky Gill, Ojasvi Sharma, Anshu Krotra, Mukesh Kumar, Netra Tickoo and Manjeetqualified for the semi-final stage. Ustad Swarn Singh Yamla and Kiran Baba also enthralled the audience with special performances as guest singers. With its emphasis on devotional music, emerging talent and cultural promotion, the Silver Jubilee edition of AIDSC is expected to be a major highlight of the Navratra Festival 2026 in Katra.
Amit Shah to visit Punjab on October 20, says BJP leader Ravneet Bittu
Punjab welcomes Honble Union Home Minister Shri Amit Shah Ji on his visit to Punjab on 20th October, Ravneet Bittu said
Punjab FC aim to extend winning start against Mumbai City in ISL 2026-27
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Punjab National Bank eyes Rs 6,000 crore quarterly profit after record September earnings
Punjab National Bank reported a record quarterly net profit of Rs 5,532 crore for September 2026. The bank's core operating profit grew by around 29 percent year-on-year despite treasury losses of Rs 1,000 crore. PNB aims to achieve Rs 6,000 crore in net profit in the upcoming quarters due to steady operational performance. Loan growth is being supported by retail, agriculture, and MSME segments during the festive season.
Digital Desk | Islamabad, Oct 18 (IANS) Convictions in rape-related offences remain low in Pakistan even after five years of enactment of a law promising to change the manner in which such cases were investigated and tried in the country, with specialised courts expected to give judgment within four months, according to a report. Between 2021 and mid-2026, the four provinces registered 47,452 cases across five categories of rape-related offences, yet convictions remain few, thousands of cases have been cancelled or left unresolved, and the governments own records reveal significant gaps in accountability, Riazul Haq, an investigative journalist, said in the report in Pakistani daily Dawn. From Punjabs extraordinarily high number of registered gang-rape cases to the prolonged trials in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP), the data exposes a criminal justice system in which registering a crime is only the beginning of a long and uncertain journey towards justice, it added. Pakistans Anti-Rape (Investigation and Trial) Act, 2021 was implemented to create specialised courts, crisis centres, trained investigators and speedy justice. Even after five years, the government has been struggling with the basics of the system, thus causing trials to drag out for years. Punjab province accounted for 89.7 per cent of all registered rape cases in Pakistan from 2021 to mid-2026. Gang-rape accounted for 62.8 per cent of the total rape-related data in Pakistan, and 99.2 per cent of all such registered cases were in the province, according to the Dawn report. Gang-rape cases in Punjab account for 69.4 per cent of the total number of cases, and its 29,555 registered cases are 6.6 times its 4,494 cases of single-perpetrator rape. Sindh reported 4.3 single-perpetrator rapes for every gang-rape, while Khyber Pakhtunkhwa recorded 51 and 47, respectively. From 2021 to mid-2026, Punjab reported 214 custodial rape cases, making up 99.5 per cent of all custodial rape cases in the national dataset. The number of registered child-rape cases in Pakistan's Khyber Pakhtunkhwa jumped from 270 in 2021 to 423 in 2025. It also recorded 7.4 times as many child-rape cases as Sindh. According to the data, the last child-rape conviction in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa was in 2021, while there were nine such convictions. Khyber Pakhtunkhwa reported 1,637 child-rape cases and secured zero convictions from 2022 to May 2026, with eight recorded acquittals. During the same period, it reported 38 cases of rape-and-murder. Among these cases, 37 are in court, and there have been no convictions or acquittals. Sindh accounted for 3.2 per cent of all registered rape cases in Pakistan, according to the data from 2021-2026. Single-perpetrator rape cases make up 64.9 per cent of Sindhs 1,510 cases, and gang-rape accounts for 15 per cent. Balochistan recorded 117 cases of rape across all categories from 2021 to mid-2026. Among the total cases, registered single-perpetrator rape cases are 94, while there are 80 child-rape cases. During the same period, two gang-rape cases, one custodial-rape case, and no rape-and-murder cases were reported. However, Balochistan has the best conviction ratio among the provinces of Pakistan, with 23 convictions to 90 acquittals, though this data implies about four acquittals for every conviction. The Anti-Rape Act was meant to replace a fragmented process with a coordinated system, in which every institution, from the police station and hospital to the prosecutors office and courtroom, would play its part. Instead, the gaps between these institutions continue to define the experience of survivors: evidence that may not be collected properly, investigations that stall, trials that drag on, and convictions that are too few to inspire confidence, Riazul Haq wrote in the report. The figures cannot reveal how many survivors were deterred from reporting their abuse, nor can they account for every case that never entered the official record. But they do raise a fundamental question about the states response to sexual violence. The measure of the law will ultimately lie not in the institutions established in its name, but in whether those institutions can deliver what the law promised, he added.
Foreign forces backing vote theft campaign, alleges Telangana BJP chief
Rao said there was a growing sense of nationalism among the youth, which, he claimed, was reflected in recent student union elections in Punjab, Kerala and Hyderabad
15 killed as truck mows down devotees outside Gwalior temple
Gwalior: Fifteen persons, including several teenagers, lost their lives and more than 25 were injured when a speeding truck ploughed into devotees gathered for Navratri prayers outside a temple in Madhya Pradeshs Gwalior district early on Sunday, police said. The paddy-laden truck, bearing a Punjab registration number, entered a no-entry zone on Chinar Road at Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
Kotak Institutional Equities and J.P. Morgan raised their target prices on Punjab National Bank to Rs 130 and Rs 134. Kotak also maintained its bullish stance on Crompton Greaves Consumer Electricals and Federal Bank.
Punjab and Haryana HC stays reappointment of PGIMS Rohtak director; Dr Sujata Shetty holding charge
Father of Anti-Drug Activist Raises Alarm Over CDR Leak in Punjab
Bhim Singh demands action over leaked call records of his son, anti-drug activist Parvinder Singh Jhotta, highlighting broader issues in Punjab. Father of Anti-Drug Activist Raises Alarm Over CDR Leak in Punjab
Credit growth likely to see addition up to 2% in the ongoing quarter, says PNB MD Chandra
Ashok Chandra, MD and CEO of Punjab National Bank, has stated that festive demand has significantly driven credit growth
Gill Falls For One Run Against Chhattisgarh On Ranji Trohpy Return
New PCA Stadium: Indias Test and ODI captain Shubman Gill's much-anticipated return to the Ranji Trophy ended in disappointment as he was castled for one by left-arm spinner Ajay Mandal in Punjab's ongoing second-round Elite Group B match against Chhattisgarh at the New PCA Stadium here on Sunday. Coming in at number four, after Vihaan Malhotra was trapped lbw by Dharmendrasinh Jadeja, Gill lasted just five balls and made one run before Mandal beat him on the third ball of the 27th over with a delivery that held its line and slipped through the gate to hit the middle stump. Gill, 27, had skipped Punjab's opening game of the season against Assam but made himself available for the clash against Chhattisgarh to get some red-ball practice ahead of India's tour of New Zealand. Though Gill is not in the T20I squad, he will be a part of India, playing five ODIs and two Tests on the tour, which forms a crucial part of their build-up to the 2027 ODI World Cup and also aim to keep their hopes alive in the race for a World Test Championship (WTC) final berth. Gill, though, will play only three ODIs before missing the last two games to prepare well for the Test series to be played in Christchurch and Wellington. Elsewhere, veteran pacer Mohammed Shami has missed Bengals ongoing match against Services at the Air Force Complex ground in Palam. Shami had trained with the Bengal squad on Saturday, but there was no official word for his absence from Bengals second round clash. His younger brother Mohammed Kaif came into the playing eleven in his absence. Shami had made an impressive start to the season by claiming five wickets, including a four-wicket haul, in Bengal's opening game against Delhi in Kalyani. Gill, though, will play only three ODIs before missing the last two games to prepare well for the Test series to be played in Christchurch and Wellington. Elsewhere, veteran pacer Mohammed Shami has missed Bengals ongoing match against Services at the Air Force Complex ground in Palam. Shami had trained with the Bengal squad on Saturday, but there was no official word for his absence from Bengals second round clash. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
BJP Urges People To Wear Black To Protest Against AAP Over Punjab Activist's Murder
Activist Parvinder Singh Jhota was shot dead by a medical store owner after he confronted him for allegedly selling drugs.
Koffee With Karan 9: Vicky Kaushal, Diljit to share the couch?
Mumbai: What happens when Bollywoods Punjabi munda meets the singer whose songs often get him grooving? Karan Johar might just have the answer. Vicky Kaushal and Diljit Dosanjh are reportedly coming together for an episode of Koffee With Karan season 9, and the pairing promises plenty of Punjabi flavour. According to the latest report, the Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
