One portal, one point of contact, 45 days: How Punjab is fast-tracking investor approvals
The Punjab government is strengthening its digital ecosystem to simplify and expedite the approval process for investors. Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann launched the Passbook, the financial incentive module of the Fast-Track Punjab portal, in Chandigarh...
Hockey India's Vision: 2030 World Cups And National Expansion
Hockey India Secretary General Bhola Nath Singh revealed that Punjab, Odisha, and Tamil Nadu are strong contenders to host the 2030 FIH Men's and Women's World Cups, with Odisha being the preferred choice. He also outlined Hockey India's strategy to expand the sport's reach across the country by bringing international tournaments to various states and focusing on infrastructure development. The article also touches upon player selection for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, with Hockey India giving team management a free hand.
Diljit Dosanjh concert today: Delhi Traffic Police issues traffic diversions, check routes to avoid
Ahead of Punjabi actor and singer Diljit Dosanjh's concert at Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium on Friday, October 30, Delhi Traffic Police has issued traffic advisory. The traffic restrictions and diversions will be in place from 1 PM to 12 midnight, commuters are advised to plan their journeys in advance, avoid affected roads around JLN Stadium and use public transport (Delhi Metro recommended), read Delhi Traffic Police's post on X.
PNB Addresses Fraud Claims in Greater Noida, Settles
Punjab National Bank responds to fraud claims in Greater Noida, settling 4.3 million for affected customers amid ongoing investigations. PNB Addresses Fraud Claims in Greater Noida, Settles 4.3 Million So Far
Aanand L. Rai: When we thought of Nakhrewaalii, the song felt like it belonged here
Digital Desk | Mumbai, Oct 30 (IANS) Anand L. Rai has talked about bringing back Kishore Kumars classic Nakhrewali from the 1956 Hindi movie New Delhi for his upcoming film Nakhrewaalii. The filmmaker said that he felt the song belonged here. Producer Aanand L Rai was keen to bring the classic into the film, finding a special connection between the song and the world of Nakhrewaalii. Talking about this Rai said in a statement: Kishore Kumar jis voice has a beauty that is truly eternal. There is so much warmth, mischief and charm in this song, and it has stayed with us across generations. When we thought of Nakhrewaalii, the song felt like it belonged here. It brings back nostalgia, but there is also something incredibly timeless about it and I am sure the younger generation will cherish this version as much as we have loved the older one. For the film, the classic song has been reimagined with vocals by Priyankit Jaiswal alongside archival vocals by late Kishore Kumar. This new track has lyrics written by Vayu and the music has been created by Vayu and Vaibhav Pani alongside the archival composition by Shankar-Jaikishan. The original song was written by Inder Raj Anand and Radha Kishan. Its music by Shankar Jaikishan. The film 1956 New Delhi was directed by Mohan Segal. The film starred Vyjayanthimala and Kishore Kumar in the lead, with Jabeen Jalil, Nana Palsikar, Nazir Hussain, Prabhu Dayal, Dhumal, Brahm Bhardwaj, Radhakrishan, Mumtaz Begum, Mirza Musharraf and Shivraj as the ensemble cast. The story is about the Punjabi boy Anand and the Tamil girl Janaki who fall in love with each other, but are unfortunately separated by their families. Directed by Rahul Shanklya, Nakhrewaalii features newcomers Ansh Duggal and Pragati Srivastava as its lead pair. Produced by Jio Studios and Colour Yellow, Nakhrewaalii releases in cinemas on 30 October 2026.
Watch the Official Teaser from Punjabi movie 'Kaal Kothri' starring Suvinder Vicky and Yog Raaj Singh Khalsa. 'Kaal Kothri' movie is directed by Devi Sharma. To know more about 'Kaal Kothri' teaser watch the video. Check out the latest Punjabi teasers, new movie teasers, trending Punjabi movie teaser, and more at ETimes - Times of India Entertainment.
Punjab Records Over 1,000 Incidents of Stubble Burning, Tarn Taran Leads the Way
Punjab has reported 1,007 stubble burning incidents, with Tarn Taran accounting for the highest number. Punjab Records Over 1,000 Incidents of Stubble Burning, Tarn Taran Leads the Way
Punjab records 1,007 stubble-burning cases; Tarn Taran tops list with 397 incidents
Digital Desk | Patiala, Oct 30 (IANS) Punjab has recorded 1,007 stubble-burning incidents during the ongoing paddy harvesting season, with Tarn Taran district accounting for the highest number of cases, followed by Amritsar and Ferozepur, according to the district-wise report of the Punjab Pollution Control Board (PPCB). Tarn Taran reported 397 cases, accounting for nearly 39 per cent of the total incidents recorded across the state. Amritsar stood second with 171 cases, while Ferozepur ranked third with 104 incidents. The three districts together accounted for 672 cases, indicating a concentration of stubble-burning incidents in these areas. According to the PPCB report, Gurdaspur recorded 72 cases, followed by Kapurthala with 63, Bathinda with 31, Fazilka with 28, Jalandhar with 22 and Faridkot with 21 incidents. Patiala and Hoshiarpur recorded 16 and 12 cases, respectively. Sangrur also reported 12 incidents, while Fatehgarh Sahib recorded 11. Muktsar reported nine cases, followed by Moga, Barnala and SAS Nagar with seven each. Ludhiana recorded six incidents, Malerkotla five, SBS Nagar three, Rupnagar two and Pathankot one. No stubble-burning incident was recorded in Mansa in the report. The report further stated that of the 1,007 incidents reported across Punjab, officials had inspected 778 locations. Stubble burning was confirmed at 379 locations following the inspections. Additionally, 26 fields were found to have traces of stubble burning by PPF and nodal officers. As part of enforcement measures, environmental compensation was imposed in 349 cases. The total penalty imposed stood at Rs 17.50 lakh, of which Rs 13.15 lakh had been recovered, the report stated. A total of 246 FIRs have also been registered in connection with stubble-burning incidents, while red entries have been made in the revenue records of 297 fields. The authorities have issued 426 warnings and show-cause notices to nodal and supervisory officers in connection with the incidents. However, the report recorded zero figures for prosecution action under Section 14 of the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) Act, filing of chargesheets and suspension of officials. In Patiala district, 16 stubble-burning cases have been reported so far. Officials inspected 14 locations and confirmed burning at seven of them. Environmental compensation was imposed in six cases in the district, amounting to Rs 35,000, of which Rs 20,000 has been recovered. The report provides cumulative figures for the ongoing season up to October 29 and does not contain a separate district-wise breakdown of fresh incidents reported during the preceding 24 hours. Therefore, the district recording the highest number of new cases during that period cannot be established from these figures. With the paddy harvesting season underway, the state authorities are continuing inspections and enforcement measures to curb stubble burning, which contributes to air pollution during the post-monsoon period.
Delhi Logs Coldest October Day In 4 Years Amid Cyclone Arnab
Maximum temperatures ranged from 20.6 degrees Celsius in Haryana's Karnal to 27.4 degrees Celsius in Punjab's Patiala, with Delhi's base weather station, Safdarjung, recording 25.4 degrees, about 5.6 degrees below normal.
Patakka Guddiyan - Official Trailer
Watch the Official trailer from punjabi movie 'Patakka Guddiyan' starring Hashneen Chauhan, Anshul Bammi, Anita Meet and Upasana Singh. 'Patakka Guddiyan' movie is directed by Dr. Mandeep Kaur & Lovejinder Singh Johal . To know more about 'Patakka Guddiyan' trailer watch the video. Check out the latest punjabi trailers, new movie trailers, trending punjabi movie trailer, and more at ETimes - Times of India Entertainment.
Patakka Guddiyan - Official Teaser
Watch the Official teaser from punjabi movie 'Patakka Guddiyan' starring Hashneen Chauhan, Anshul Bammi, Anita Meet and Upasana Singh. 'Patakka Guddiyan' movie is directed by Dr. Mandeep Kaur & Lovejinder Singh Johal . To know more about 'Patakka Guddiyan' teaser watch the video. Check out the latest punjabi teasers, new movie teasers, trending punjabi movie teaser, and more at ETimes - Times of India Entertainment.
GNDU to Mark Birth Centenary of Fibre Optics Pioneer Narinder Singh Kapany
Guru Nanak Dev University (GNDU) will pay tribute to the pioneering scientist Dr. Narinder The post GNDU to Mark Birth Centenary of Fibre Optics Pioneer Narinder Singh Kapany appeared first on Khalsa Vox .
Punjabi-Origin Truck Driver Charged in Canada After Cocaine, Heroin Seizure at US Border
A 47-year-old truck driver of Punjabi origin is facing drug trafficking-related charges in Canada The post Punjabi-Origin Truck Driver Charged in Canada After Cocaine, Heroin Seizure at US Border appeared first on Khalsa Vox .
J&K faces Rs 95 lakh interest bill for delayed power payments
Srinagar, Oct 29: Jammu and Kashmir has been saddled with an interest liability of nearly Rs 95 lakh for delays in clearing electricity-related payments, an amount that has added to the financial burden of its power sector without bringing any additional electricity to consumers. The liability, disclosed in a fresh statement issued by the Northern Regional Power Committee (NRPC), is the highest among 140 utilities and entities listed across northern India and accounts for nearly 45 per cent of the region's total interest payable for the April-June quarter of 2026. The figures come as Kashmir heads into winter, when electricity demand rises and the power department faces the annual challenge of maintaining supply to households and businesses. According to a Document by NRPC, dated October 27, accessed by Rising Kashmir, Jammu and Kashmir has been assessed Rs 94,95,917.56 as interest on delayed payment of deviation settlement charges. The total interest payable by all listed utilities stands at Rs 2.12 crore. Punjab has been assessed just Rs 26,021, while Delhi, Haryana, Himachal Pradesh, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand have no interest payable against their names. Jammu and Kashmir's interest liability is more than 365 times that of Punjab. The charges arise from a mechanism through which power utilities settle differences between the electricity they were scheduled to draw from the grid and what they actually drew. Payments under this mechanism must be cleared within prescribed timelines, with delays attracting interest. For Jammu and Kashmir, the Rs 95 lakh is therefore not a payment towards purchasing electricity. It is an additional financial obligation arising because payments were delayed. While the interest liability cannot be directly linked to any particular power cut or increase in consumer tariffs, it represents an expense that could have been avoided through timely settlement of dues. The NRPC statement does not explain why Jammu and Kashmir accumulated such a large interest amount or identify the individual payments responsible for it. It also does not disclose the principal amount involved or whether the interest has since been cleared. The figures have emerged against the backdrop of continuing concerns over Jammu and Kashmir's ability to meet electricity demand during the colder months, particularly in the Valley, where dependence on electricity for heating places additional pressure on the system. The financial position of the power sector assumes added importance during this period, when arrangements for electricity procurement and grid management become crucial to maintaining supplies. The NRPC has given utilities 15 days from October 27 to point out any discrepancies in the calculations. In the absence of objections, the amounts will be treated as final. The committee has asked the concerned entities to deposit the interest into the Northern Region Deviation Pool Account maintained by the Northern Regional Load Despatch Centre. The statement covers the first quarter of 2026-27 alone, leaving open the question of whether further interest liabilities have accumulated since June.
Sanjog | Song - Dil Diyan Gallan
Watch The Song Dil Diyan Gallan from punjabi movie 'Sanjog' starring Happy Raikoti, Jassie Gill and Neha Sharma . 'Sanjog's Song Dil Diyan Gallan is sung by Jassie Gill and music is given by Happy Raikoti. Lyrics of 'Sanjog' Dil Diyan Gallan are written by Happy Raikoti. To know more abou Dil Diyan Gallan Song from Happy Raikoti, Jassie Gill and Neha Sharma starrer 'Sanjog' watch the video.
Punjab tennis secretary quits amid financial irregularities allegations
Enjoy The New Punjabi Music Video For 'Taare' By Diljit Dosanjh
Get ready to be swept away by the latest punjabi track 'Taare' beautifully sung by Diljit Dosanjh. This captivating track feature mesmerizing music given by Nick Dhammu and beautiful lyrics are penned by Veet Baljit. Don't miss the chance to witness Diljit Dosanjh's performance in the captivating punjabi video track 'Taare'. 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 Nijjar. Indulge in the latest punjabi video tracks of 2026, groove to the soulful compositions by Diljit Dosanjh, immerse in the punjabi music video tracks.
Experience The New Punjabi Music Video 'Sardarni' by R Nait
Get ready to be swept away by the latest punjabi track 'Sardarni' beautifully sung by R Nait. This captivating track feature mesmerizing music given by R Nait and beautiful lyrics are penned by R Nait. Don't miss the chance to witness R Nait's performance in the captivating punjabi video track 'Sardarni'. 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 R Nait. Indulge in the latest punjabi video tracks of 2026, groove to the soulful compositions by R Nait, immerse in the punjabi music video tracks.
Flower growers urge Punjab govt to expedite Ludhiana mandi project
Punjab BJP chief Dhillon promises 63% DA if party wins 2027 polls
Punjab records season-high 194 farm fires, tally crosses 1,000
Punjab grenade attack suspect held in Hrys Faridabad
10,000 allied healthcare students face uncertainty as Punjab college affiliations stall
Punjab govt seeks estimate of liability for pending DA, DR dues
Khanna traffic DSPs WhatsApp hacked, messages seek money
Industry seeks 5% GST on steel to ease MSMEs working capital crunch
BJP Promises 63% Dearness Allowance To Government Employees If It Comes To Power In Punjab
Punjab BJP president Kewal Singh Dhillon accused the AAP government of failing to address the employees' demands
Man, sister-in-law injured as three men open fire at car
Shot fired inside house over court case; woman escapes unhurt
Gunmen target car with kid, woman inside
Delhi Sees Coldest October Day In 4 Years As Mercury Dips Across North India
Maximum temperatures ranged from 20.6 degrees Celsius in Haryana's Karnal to 27.4 degrees Celsius in Punjab's Patiala, with Delhi's base weather station, Safdarjung, recording 25.4 degrees, about 5.6 degrees below normal.
PNB settles 43 lakh in claims amid Greater Noida branch fraud allegations
Punjab National Bank (PNB) on Thursday assured customers that all genuine claims will be honoured and already settled three claims amounting to Rs 43 lakh in connection with alleged financial irregularities involving certain customer fixed and savings bank (SB) deposit accounts at the Greater Noida branch. A day after the incident was reported, PNB in a statement said the bank has taken serious cognisance of the complaints and is examining the matter on priority. Three claims amounting to Rs 43 lakh had been settled as of yesterday. The Bank assures its customers that all genuine claims will be honoured, the statement said. The statement said it was extending full cooperation to the authorities concerned and taking necessary steps to verify the facts, assess the extent of the reported discrepancies and address the concerns of affected customers. PNB said it follows a zero-tolerance policy towards fraud, financial irregularities and misconduct, adding that stern action would be ta
Harsimrat Kaur Badal Criticizes Punjab Government Over Daljit Singh Case
Harsimrat Kaur Badal accuses Punjab police of harassing Daljit Singhs family amid claims of a cover-up in his death investigation. Harsimrat Kaur Badal Criticizes Punjab Government Over Daljit Singh Case
Human Rights Groups Accuse Pakistani Forces of Extrajudicial Killings in Balochistan
Human rights organizations allege extrajudicial killings of two Baloch citizens by Pakistani forces amid rising concerns over disappearances. Human Rights Groups Accuse Pakistani Forces of Extrajudicial Killings in Balochistan
Pakistans Hindu Population Falls From 14% To Just 1.61%: Report Details Decades Of Persecution
Pakistans Hindu population has plunged from 14.6% in 1941 to just 1.61% today, according to a report by INSIGHT UK.The report alleges decades of violence, forced displacement, land seizures, forced conversions and forced marriages. It also highlights the sharp decline in Hindu temples and continued threats to minority families.What happened to Pakistans Hindus?Watch: https://youtu.be/2FhsgLy-EUs
Punjab election 2026 | When SAD comes to power: Sukhbir Singh Badal issues warning to gangsters
Tripura Police seize 200 rounds of live cartridges, one arrested
Digital Desk | Agartala, Oct 29 (IANS) The Tripura Police on Thursday seized 200 rounds of live cartridges from a passenger-carrying vehicle during a naka checking operation at Maharani in Gomati district and arrested an arms trafficker in connection with the seizure, police said. A senior police official confirmed the seizure and arrest, saying that the vehicle, a Max, was travelling from Agartala towards Raishyabari in Dhalai district when it was intercepted by police near Maharani Police Outpost. According to the official, police stopped the vehicle during a routine checking operation and conducted a search, during which 200 rounds of live cartridges were recovered. One person, identified as Bimal Chakma alias Jayanta Lal Chakma, 37, was subsequently arrested in connection with the incident. However, police have withheld the identity of the arrested person, citing the ongoing investigation. Following the seizure, police launched a probe to determine the source of the cartridges and their intended destination. Investigators are also examining the circumstances under which the ammunition was being transported and whether other individuals were involved in the consignment. The investigation is underway to establish the full circumstances surrounding the transportation of the live cartridges and determine whether others were involved in the case. Tripura has witnessed multiple arrests of suspected arms dealers, mostly from Bihar, over the past few years, with most of the cases involving illegal firearms allegedly smuggled into the Northeastern state, often through train routes. On September 6, in a joint operation, the Tripura Police and Assam Rifles arrested two suspected arms dealers after they arrived in Agartala from Bihar. During the search, two pistols, three magazines and eight rounds of 7.65 mm ammunition, along with two mobile phones, were recovered from their possession. In a joint operation, the Tripura Police and the Railway Protection Force (RPF) had earlier arrested two suspected arms and drug peddlers after they arrived in Agartala on an express train. The Tripura Police personnel and RPF troops recovered a loaded pistol and around 100 bottles of banned cough syrup from the possession of two youths from Bihar after detaining them at the Agartala railway station. In November last year, the Tripura Police arrested three persons, including an alleged arms supplier from Bihar, after seizing two country-made firearms and four magazines during a patrol operation in Agartala. On May 8 last year, eight pistols and 16 empty magazines were recovered from an express train at Agartala railway station. The Government Railway Police (GRP) and RPF, in a joint operation, recovered the arms from the Tripura Sundari Express after the train arrived from Punjab's Firozpur. Tripura, which has an 856 km border with Bangladesh, is surrounded on three sides by the neighbouring country, making the Northeastern state very vulnerable and sensitive to cross-border migration issues, smuggling of drugs, arms and various other contrabands. Except for some patches, most of the frontier had been fenced to prevent smuggling, trans-border crimes, cross-border illegal movements by infiltrators and inimical elements.
5 Lakh Fake Email IDs, Kanpur Man's Arrest, And A Pakistan Link
According to ATS, the accused used Wi-Fi and proxy networks to conceal his identity and sold these IDs through Facebook groups. His contacts with individuals and groups in Pakistan, Bangladesh, Turkey, Egypt and other countries also came to light during interrogation.
Bhut's 8-wicket haul powers Saurashtra to dominant Ranji win
Saurashtra secured an innings-and-12-run victory over Assam in the Ranji Trophy, propelled by Parth Bhut's exceptional eight-wicket haul. Karnataka also registered a massive innings-and-116-run win against Tripura, with Shreyas Gopal taking five wickets. Other matches saw Punjab draw with Hyderabad and Chhattisgarh beat Andhra.
Majority of narcotics smuggled into Afghanistan come from Pakistan, says Taliban
Digital Desk | Kabul, Oct 29 (IANS) Spotlighting that majority of narcotics - including traditional and synthetic drugs - are being smuggled into Afghanistan from Pakistan, the Taliban's Interior Ministry has urged Islamabad to fulfil its responsibility of stopping drug trafficking, local media reported on Thursday. Taliban's Interior Ministry spokesperson Abdul Mateen Qani said that the country has intensified efforts to stop drug smuggling and that drug cultivation has reached nearly zero in Afghanistan after the Taliban's efforts to stop the production of narcotics, the 'Afghanistan International' reported. The spokesperson's remarks came as reports cited that Pakistan's Balochistan province has become the main centre for poppy cultivation after the Taliban's ban on drugs in Afghanistan.Until 2022, 80 per cent of the world's illicit opium was cultivated in Afghanistan. Taliban claims a 95 per cent drop in opium production since it came to power again. According to a report released by the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) in July 2026, the area where poppy was cultivated in Afghanistan witnessed a decline from 232,000 hectares in 2022 to 10,200 hectares in 2025, while production of opium reduced from 6,200 tonnes to around 296 tonnes, Afghanistan International reported. However, the United Nations stated that existing opium stockpiles in Afghanistan were expected to last till the end of 2026. Meanwhile, Pakistan's Balochistan province and Sistan-Baluchistan in Iran, both sharing a border with Afghanistan, have witnessed an increase in poppy cultivation in recent years, a report in Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty (RFE/RL) has detailed, citing satellite imagery and interviews with local farmers. The Taliban drugs ban, combined with growing instability in the tri-border area, has created the conditions for widespread poppy cultivation in Pakistan's Balochistan Province and parts of Iran, the RFE/RL report quoted David Mansfield, a leading UK-based expert on Afghanistan's illicit drugs industry, as saying. Mansfield said that the remote and volatile areas of Afghanistan, Pakistan and Iran have, as a result, become a global centre for opium production. Balochistan seems to have become the main centre of opium cultivation in the Afghanistan-Pakistan-Iran border region. Satellite imagery from Alcis, a British firm specialising in satellite analysis, and interviews with local farmers indicate that opium cultivation is widespread in Balochistan. Mansfield, who authored an August report for Alcis, said, Satellite imagery assessments identified more than 9,000 hectares of poppy cultivation in Balochistan alone. Iran has also been witnessing poppy cultivation as Afghan farmers have crossed the borders to cultivate poppies as tenants and sharecroppers. In recent years, opium cultivation has been reported in several provinces of Iran, including Razavi Khorasan, Kermanshah and Lorestan. Sistan-Baluchistan is the main centre of opium cultivation in Iran, with satellite imagery from 2026 showing poppy cultivation in several parts of the province.
Methi Pakoda Kadhi: Make fenugreek pakora curry at home, then add Punjabi tadka like this
Homemade Kadhi: To make fenugreek pakora kadhi, first prepare the pakoras. For this, combine finely chopped fenugreek leaves, finely chopped onions, and gram flour in a large bowl.Easy recipe to make fenugreek pakora curryHow To Make Less Oil Kadhi Pakora At Home: If you love kadhi and w...
Pakistani Human Rights Lawyers Sentenced to 10 Years in Prison
A Pakistani court has sentenced human rights lawyers Iman Zainab Mazari-Hazir and Hadi Ali Chattha to 10 years for security violations. Pakistani Human Rights Lawyers Sentenced to 10 Years in Prison
Ranji Trophy: Kotian, Bhut grab eight-fors as Mumbai, Saurashtra register big wins
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Oct 29 (IANS) Tanush Kotian and Parth Bhut both claimed eight-wicket hauls on the final day of the latest round of Ranji Trophy matches on Thursday. Kotians effort set up Mumbais 10-wicket rout of Haryana, while Bhut bowled Saurashtra to victory over Assam by an innings and 12 runs. At the BKC Ground in Mumbai, off-spinner Kotian finished with 8-81. He had taken the first wicket of Haryanas second innings on day three and added seven more on the final day. Kotian removed overnight batters Himanshu Rana (46) and Nishant Sindhu (44), and later ended a lower-order fightback led by Samant Jakhar. Mumbai needed only 97 runs for victory, and they knocked off the runs in under 11 overs. Angkrish Raghuvanshi, who scored a hundred in the first innings, smashed an unbeaten 67 off 39 balls. At the Niranjan Shah Stadium in Rajkot, Player of the Match Bhut, who had six wickets by stumps on day three, was even more destructive, finishing with 8-17 in 18 overs and had a match haul of ten wickets as Saurashtra wrapped up a bonus-point win. Ravindra Jadeja, who will be a part of Indias Test series against New Zealand next month, took 2-58 wickets in 22 overs, including 4 maidens. Bengal crushed Kerala by 287 runs in Thiruvananthapuram, with Pradipta Pramanik taking 6-51. Pramanik had claimed all four Kerala wickets that fell on day three and added two more on the final morning as the hosts were bowled out for 120. Captain Shreyas Gopals 5-36 bowled Karnataka to an innings-and-116-run win over Tripura in Mysuru, with the visitors dismissed for 180 in their second innings. Vidarbha thrashed Goa by an innings and 27 runs in Nagpur, with Harsh Dubey taking 4-38. He struck twice in quick succession to remove Manthan Khutkar, who top-scored with 70, and Yash Kasvankar, before taking wickets off consecutive deliveries to bowl Goa out for 195. Several matches ended in draws. In Vadodara, Abdul Samads 143 off 152 balls, which included 16 fours and seven sixes, and Sahil Lotras unbeaten 96 rescued defending champions Jammu and Kashmir against Baroda. The pair added 225 runs after J&K had slumped to 53/4 after being made to follow-on. In Pune, Gujarat declared their second innings on 446/5 against Maharashtra after Aarya Desai hit 151, followed by an unbeaten 119 from Jaymeet Patel and 96 from Urvil Patel, but the hosts held on for a draw. The Punjab and Hyderabad match ended in a draw at tea on the final day in Secunderabad, after half-centuries from Vihaan Malhotra, Prabhsimran Singh (68 off 76 balls) and visiting captain Uday Saharan (55 not out off 106 balls). Akash Vasisht struck an unbeaten 126 as Himachal Pradesh replied with 559/6 to Chandigarhs 685/5 declared in a high-scoring draw. Puducherry secured a draw against Uttar Pradesh by taking the first-innings lead, despite Kartik Yadavs 6-42.
PNB suspends 12 employees, files CBI case over alleged bank fraud involving 10 crore
Punjab National Bank has taken action by suspending twelve staff members linked to unauthorized fund transfers utilizing the branch manager's password. Evidence points to a female employee collaborating with external parties in these transactions. Current estimates of the losses indicate they are below Rs 10 crore, contradicting widespread claims online.
Punjab BJP Urges Swift Assembly Elections Amid Deteriorating Law and Order
Punjab BJP leader Sunil Jakhar calls for immediate implementation of the Model Code of Conduct due to rising lawlessness ahead of elections. Punjab BJP Urges Swift Assembly Elections Amid Deteriorating Law and Order
Bang Bang! Noodle Meets Lili for a Halloween Takeover in Hyderabad
Chef Rahul Punjabi and Lili co-founder Abhilasha Oruganti bring together Sichuan flavours, imaginative Halloween dishes and carefully curated decor for a two-day culinary collaboration in Hyderabad.
Pakistan court sentences human rights lawyer couple to 10 years in jail
Digital Desk | Islamabad, Oct 29 (IANS) A Pakistani anti-terrorism court on Thursday handed down 10 years of imprisonment each to human rights lawyers Imaan Zainab Mazari-Hazir and her husband, Hadi Ali Chattha, in connection with a security breach case, local media reported. The case was registered at Islamabads Aabpara Police Station over allegations that the couple threatened national security by interfering in state affairs during an international cricket teams visit to Pakistan in October 2024. The court order stated that the lawyer couple received two years' imprisonment and a fine of Pakistani Rs 50,000 under Section 353, along with a one-year jail term and another Rs 50,000 fine under Section 186, leading Pakistani media outlet Geo News reported. Imaan and Hadi were also sentenced to 10 years in prison each and fined Rs 1 lakh each under the Anti-Terrorism Act (ATA), 1997. The court directed that all sentences run concurrently, bringing their total imprisonment to 10 years each. The lawyer couples counsel had sought a deferment of the verdict, citing petitions pending before the Supreme Court and the Islamabad High Court. The decision should be postponed until the petitions pending before the Supreme Court and High Court are decided, Geo News quoted lawyer Aimal Mandokhail as saying. He further contended that the court could not legally deliver its verdict while the applications were still pending consideration. Meawhile, Imaan and Hadi alleged that the security breach case against them was nothing more than harassment aimed at punishing them for their legal and human rights work, describing it as part of a wider pattern of targeting through reprisals. The evidence produced during this trial is not against us, but in fact a charge sheet against (prosecution witnesses)/police officials and the state, Pakistani daily Dawn quoted Imaan and Hadi as saying in their separate similar recorded statements. According to them, the prosecution witnesses were part and parcel of the state machinery that had allegedly persecuted them for their human rights work and pro bono legal services for marginalised and oppressed communities, including street vendors, those facing false blasphemy allegations and victims of enforced disappearances. I am a prisoner of conscience who has been at the receiving end of state persecution, read the statements by the lawyer couple. The case of Imaan and Hadi has come under mounting international criticism, raising serious concerns over arbitrary detention and the persecution of human rights lawyers in Pakistan. Last month, a total of 15 international civil society organisations, including the International Federation for Human Rights (FIDH) and the World Organisation Against Torture (OMCT), voiced grave concern over the continued arbitrary detention of Pakistani human rights lawyers Imaan and her husband, Hadi, since January, despite the Supreme Court suspending their sentences and granting them bail. In the joint statement, the organisations urged Pakistani authorities to immediately release the lawyer couple and ensure that any continued deprivation of liberty is subject to a clear legal basis and rigorous, independent judicial scrutiny. Drop all charges based on the legitimate exercise of freedom of expression, peaceful assembly, human rights advocacy, and the lawful performance of their professional duties as lawyers. Disclose the factual and legal basis for their re-arrest and ensure rigorous judicial scrutiny of the arbitrary use of the Anti-Terrorism Act in the latest proceedings, the joint statement said.
Punjab BJP demands early Assembly polls (Lead)
Digital Desk | Chandigarh, Oct 29 (IANS) Punjab BJP leader Sunil Jakhar has written to the Governor, urging him to recommend to the Election Commission that the Model Code of Conduct be enforced in the state at the earliest. Citing Punjabs deteriorating law and order situation, which he said the Bhagwant Mann government had itself now acknowledged, Jakhar said this was necessary to ensure that the forthcoming Assembly elections were peaceful and fair and that people could exercise their right to vote without fear. The former state BJP chief also said the party would soon approach the Election Commission of India to demand early enforcement of the Model Code of Conduct. He alleged that if the AAP government remained in power any longer, it would worsen the situation to such an extent that holding peaceful and impartial elections in an atmosphere free from fear would become impossible. Speaking to the media here, Jakhar said an anti-drug marathon had been held annually in Abohar for several years, with thousands of young people participating in the campaign against drugs. This year, however, the government had cancelled permission for the marathon in writing, stating that the atmosphere was unfavourable and that the event could not be held because of the poor law and order situation. He said law and order had indeed deteriorated to an extremely alarming level and that no one in the state was safe. While drugs were claiming young lives, he alleged, the terror unleashed by the drug mafia had grown to such an extent that sincere voices speaking out against drugs were being silenced with bullets. He said people were being killed openly across Punjab, from the holy city of Amritsar to Tarn Taran, Khem Karan, Gurdaspur, Hargobindpur, Mansa, Abohar, Sangrur and Ludhiana, in virtually every district and town. Criticising the governments role, he alleged that police were even forcibly taking away the bodies of children who had died due to drugs. Anyone who protested against drugs or expressed their anguish before the government, he said, was either subjected to police repression or driven to suicide. Jakhar attributed these developments to what he described as a deliberate strategy of the AAP government. He said the partys own senior leader, Manish Sisodia, had revealed this approach by stating that they would use every means to win elections persuasion, inducements, punishment, division, confrontation, lies or truth. He alleged that under this strategy the government had appointed pliant officers, while criminals and gangsters were either being inducted into the party or provided protection. He further alleged that the Chief Ministers Office had itself become a hub of corruption and that Punjab was suffering the consequences of this policy.
Ranji Trophy: Punjab emerges with better returns from drawn encounter
Prahbhsimran and Saharan notch up half-centuries in the second essay; visitors pick up three points for taking the first innings honours while host Hyderabad has to rest content with one
Punjab BJP Leader Criticizes Government for Blocking Marathon Amid Drug Crisis
Sunil Jakhar condemns Punjab government for halting a charitable marathon, citing rising drug-related deaths and law enforcement issues. Punjab BJP Leader Criticizes Government for Blocking Marathon Amid Drug Crisis
Rajasthan Slams Punjab's 1.44 Lakh Crore Water Royalty Demand as Illegal
BJP MP Tarun Chugh Claims Punjab is Indias Crime Capital
BJP MP Tarun Chugh criticizes Punjabs law and order, claiming the state has become a hub for crime and extortion. BJP MP Tarun Chugh Claims Punjab is Indias Crime Capital
Punjab Minister Harpal Cheema Details Mega Crackdown
AI firm KYVEXS founder Pearl Kapur joins BJP ahead of Punjab elections
Pearl Kapur has joined the Bharatiya Janata Party as the Punjab elections approach. He aims to integrate artificial intelligence and data analytics into the party's digital outreach strategies. This move highlights the increasing importance of digital platforms in modern political campaigns.
Ranji Trophy: Bhut's Eight-Wicket Haul Helps Saurashtra Rout Assam
Parth Bhut's exceptional eight-wicket haul propelled Saurashtra to a dominant innings-and-12-run victory over Assam in the Ranji Trophy, moving them to second in Elite Group B. Karnataka also secured a massive win, while Punjab's match ended in a draw.
Maldives must scrutinise Pakistan defence ties, former minister Mariya Didi says
Maldives must scrutinise Pakistan defence ties, former minister Mariya Didi says
Ramayan Fever In Pakistan: Karachi Hindus Carry Ranbir Kapoor
Is Pakistan favoring Hinduism? The excitement around Nitesh Tiwari's upcoming film Ramayan is reportedly reaching beyond India, with videos circulating online showing members of the Hindu community in Karachi, Pakistan, celebrating the film's arrival. People are seen carrying posters
PNB Greater Noida branch customers allege multi-crore fraud; 5 employees suspended, FIR registered
A multi-crore rupee fraud has allegedly come to light at a Punjab National Bank (PNB) branch in Greater Noida's PI-1 sector, in Gautam Buddha Nagar district of Uttar Pradesh , where customers have claimed that lakhs and crores of rupees were transferred from their accounts without their knowledge. Police have registered an FIR based on complaints from 16 account holders, while the bank has suspended five employees, including the branch manager.
Muneeba to lead Pakistan in ICC Emerging Nations Trophy
Fatima Sana will miss the tournament to play in the WBBL and Ayesha Zafar has been named vice-captain
Rajasthan: Cyclone Arnab weakens but rain, thunderstorms, hail likely in several districts
Digital Desk | Jaipur, Oct 29 (IANS) Cyclonic storm 'Arnab' has weakened into a depression over southern Chhattisgarh and is likely to weaken further over the next 24 hours. Meanwhile, a fresh Western Disturbance has led to the formation of an induced cyclonic circulation over Punjab and adjoining areas, influencing weather conditions across parts of Rajasthan, said officials. They confirmed that Rajasthan is likely to witness thunderstorms, strong winds and rainfall across several districts on Thursday, with the possibility of moderate to heavy rain and hailstorms in parts of the Jaipur and Bharatpur divisions, according to the India Meteorological Department (IMD). Maximum temperatures are expected to fall by 35 degree Celsius over the next 24 hours, bringing relief from the prevailing warmth in several areas. According to the Meteorological Centre, Jaipur, parts of the Bharatpur, Jaipur, Ajmer, Kota and Udaipur divisions are likely to experience cloudy skies, thunderstorms, strong winds reaching 4050 kmph and light to moderate rainfall on October 29. Northern parts of the Jaipur and Bharatpur divisions may receive moderate to heavy rainfall, with hailstorms possible in some areas. The expected drop in maximum temperatures could bring a noticeable change in weather conditions across the affected regions. On Friday, October 30, light to moderate rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms and strong winds is likely to continue in some parts of the Jaipur, Bharatpur, Udaipur, Kota and Ajmer divisions of eastern Rajasthan. In western Rajasthan, isolated areas of the Jodhpur and Bikaner divisions may experience cloudy skies and light rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms on Thursday and Friday. However, most border areas are expected to remain largely dry. The IMD has forecast light to moderate rainfall in some parts of eastern Rajasthan on October 31. From November 1 onwards, the weather is likely to remain predominantly dry across most parts of the state.
Pakistan: PTI voices concern over deteriorating health of Imran Khan's sister
Digital Desk | Islamabad, Oct 29 (IANS) Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) on Thursday voiced concern over the deteriorating health condition of former Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan's sister, Noreen Niazi in prison and the decision by authorities to transfer her to Punjab Institute of Cardiology while alleging that the family members were not given any update about her health. PTI leader Sheikh Waqas Akram shared the PTI central media department's statement on X, which mentioned that they have received reports that Noreen Niazi was taken to Punjab Institute of Cardiology after she fell ill in jail. However, the party said that it is extremely regrettable and concerning that none of the family members was informed about her shifting to the hospital. The alleged illegal detention of 70-year-old Noreen Niazi, the risks to her health, and her hospital transfer without taking the family into confidence are extremely serious matters, on which the Punjab government and relevant authorities must provide immediate clarification, the PTI mentioned in a statement. The party called for providing the best medical facilities to Noreen Niazi under the supervision of cardiologists; all necessary diagnostic tests and treatment should be ensured without delay, and information about her health should be shared immediately with the family. The PTI said that Noreen Niazi's family should be permitted to meet her and inquire about her well-being. The party voiced concern over the treatment being meted out to innocent women who have been imprisoned, including Imran Khan's sister. It called for ensuring respect and dignity of women, human dignity, and constitutional rights in all circumstances. Turning political affiliation into a crime and holding women in detention for political pressure is unacceptable in any civilised and democratic society, it said. PTI's statement comes as Noreen Niazi's lawyer Rana Mudassar Umer said that she had been taken to the Punjab Institute of Cardiology on Wednesday after jail doctors recommended it, leading Pakistani daily Dawn reported. The lawyer mentioned that Noreen Niazi's family was not told about her worsening health condition. Umer said that jail authorities were not providing medicines to Imran Khan's sisters. Three sisters of Imran Khan - Aleema Khan, Uzma Khan, and Noreen Niazi - have been kept in prison since September 21 under the Punjab Maintenance of Public Order Ordinance, 1960 (MPO) on the Lahore Deputy Commissioners (DC) orders, Dawn reported. Aleema Khan, Uzma Khan and Noreen Niazi are currently serving the second term of a 30-day detention under the MPO, which was extended on October 7.
Sunil Jakhar calls for the implementation of the Model Code of Conduct in Punjab to ensure fair elections amid rising lawlessness. Sunil Jakhar Urges Punjab Governor to Implement Model Code of Conduct Amid Deteriorating Law and Order
Haryana: Man arrested from Faridabad for Punjab grenade attack
A man responsible for a hand grenade attack in Punjab was arrested in a village, in Faridabad. He is said to have links with Pakistan's intelligence agency ISI and police are now investigating him.
Jonita Gandhi bids adieu grandmother with heartfelt post
Digital Desk | Mumbai, Oct 29 (IANS) Playback singer Jonita Gandhi, who is known for songs like Gilehriyaan, What Jhumka, Dil Ka Telephone, has paid a tribute to her grandmother, Satwant Kaur Gandhi. On Thursday, the singer took to her Instagram, and shared a series of pictures and video remembering her late grandmother. The pictures and videos feature her grandmother through different stage of her fulfilling life. She also penned a long note in the caption, as she spoke about her grandmother, and her terrific personality. She wrote, Life is so strange. How someone can be so full of life one moment, and suddenly just gone. I still cant get her voice out of my head. The warmest soul with nothing but kindness (and a little mischief) in her heart. She taught us how to live in the present and be happy regardless of the circumstances. Her laughter, her hilarious one-liners, the things she would say without even realizing how funny she was. Savage, in the most honest and pure way. I keep replaying all the little moments, and somehow, even through the sadness, she still manages to make me laugh. Thats how I know shell live on forever. My pyaari dadi ma love you and miss you so much, she added. Members of the music and film fraternity took to the comments section, and offered their condolences to the grieving singer. Actress Kubbra Sait wrote, The full life. Sorry for your loss. Actress Ananya Panday put up heart emojis in the comments. Jonita Gandhi was born in New Delhi into a Punjabi family and moved to Canada with her parents when she was nine months old. Raised in Brampton and later Mississauga, Ontario, she grew up in a household deeply connected to Indian music and culture.
Rising poverty level contradicts Pakistan govts claim of economic recovery: Report
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Oct 29 (IANS) While the Pakistan government has been claiming that the countrys economy is recovering, households continue to struggle with food, electricity, transport, and housing costs, according to an article in the Karachi-based Business Recorder. The World Bank estimates that Pakistans poverty level rose to approximately 29 per cent in 202425, leaving around 70 million people below the national poverty line. Real wages declined by an average of 3.4 per cent annually between 2018-19 and 2024-25. This contradicts the claims of the Pakistani authorities that poverty is declining in the country. For households, recovery means being able to buy food, pay rent, educate children, and meet unexpected expenses without falling into debt. Families, just above the poverty line, can be pushed below it by illness, job loss, rising rents or other increases in essential expenses. The challenge is to build an economy in which households can sustain their livelihoods despite economic shocks, the report states. It points out that lower inflation does not mean prices return to previous levels; it means they rise more slowly. After successive years of price increases, households can continue to struggle even when inflation moderates. Pakistans consumer price inflation reached 10.26 per cent year-on-year in September 2026, while the IMFs October projections put average inflation at 9.9 per cent for FY202627. The pressure is especially visible in household food budgets. The cost of essential foods, including wheat, flour, vegetables and meat, can force families to make difficult choices. When meat becomes less affordable, families may buy it less frequently. Rising food costs can also force households to reduce quantities, compromise dietary diversity, or postpone other expenses, the report observes. Inadequate nutrition, compounded by extreme heat, cold and other harsh weather conditions, can increase health risks, particularly for children, older people and those already vulnerable. The consequences extend beyond household budgets to health, education, and human development, the report added.
Pakistani Hindus hope Ramayana wins an Oscar - watch viral video
A YouTuber from Karachi, Pakistan, recently shared a video showing members of the city's Hindu community celebrating Ramayana and expressing their enthusiasm for it. In the video, several people extend their best wishes to Ranbir Kapoor, Sai Pallavi and Yash and hope the film wins an Oscar.
PNB Customers Lose Rs 35 Crore From Accounts In Greater Noida, Claim No SMS Alerts Or Calls
Punjab National Bank (PNB) Customers in Greater Noida are raising serious questions after around Rs 35 crore has gone missing from their savings accounts and fixed deposits. Several account holders say they have not authorised the transactions and have not received
Digital Desk | Auckland, Oct 29 (IANS) India T20I vice-captain Tilak Varma spoke on his performances against Pakistan, highlighting that he has done well against the arch-rivals on multiple occasions. Speaking ahead of India's fourth T20I against New Zealand at the Eden Park in Auckland, Tilak was asked what confidence he would have got batting in the middle-order after his match-changing 51 not out from 22 balls against Pakistan in the Asian Games final earlier this month. The Indian vice-captain gave a cheeky reply, stating that he had performed well against Pakistan before too, as he referenced the Asia Cup 2025 final clutch knock where he scored an unbeaten 69 to help India register a famous win in the 147-run chase. (Performance against) Pakistan was good before too. Whenever I go to bat at No.5 to 7 in the lower order. So, I don't get much batting. And even if I get it, I get it under a lot of pressure. So, till now, whenever I get a chance, I try to win the game. I try to finish the game. So, after the Pakistan game, I have the same confidence. There is no change. It's not like I was not scoring for 10 matches and then I scored against Pakistan straightaway. It didn't happen like that. As it is said, I keep scoring. I remain focused on scoring runs for the team. I always want to help the team win. It's simple. And there is such a good atmosphere in the team. There is such good backing. So, in my mind, it remains: how can I win every match for the team? he added. Tilak also boasts of a record that he has not lost a match when he is unbeaten in a T20 chase. The Southpaw also spoke on the magical stat, highlighting that pressure remains on him, but he finds his way to score runs. I can't say stress. There is always pressure and nerves. Till the last day of your cricket career, pressure will always be on you. So, it is the same feeling. But it has become a habit to manage it. Every individual has a different way. Some people breathe. Some talk a little more in between to settle those nerves. So, every individual is different. I also have my own way, he added. In the second T20I against New Zealand, Tilak smashed a match-changing and unbeaten 51 from 26 balls to guide India to a much-impressive four-wicket win with a successful chase of a strong 181 in Christchurch with one ball remaining. In the end overs, as a batter, the bowler is under far more pressure than I am. That positive thought is constantly running in my head, that the bowler is under more pressure, so they are bound to leak runs, he added.
10 Killed As Oxygen Cylinder Explodes Inside Ambulance In Pakistan
Local police official Khalil Abro said patients were being transferred to another hospital when the explosion occurred.
Fresh off the buzz around Sapne Vs Everyone 2 and a shout-out from Hrithik Roshan for STORM, Paramvir Singh Cheema could be gearing up for his next exciting chapter, with speculation pointing towards a potential collaboration with filmmaker Ssanjay Tripaathy. Theres fresh speculation around Paramvir Singh Cheemas next project, with industry buzz suggesting that the actor could be in talks with filmmaker Ssanjay Tripaathy for an upcoming venture. The project is expected to go on floors in October 2027, with Tripaathy set to take it up after wrapping his current directorial, Side Heroes. While nothing has been officially confirmed, the potential collaboration has certainly sparked curiosity about what Cheema could be exploring next. The actor has been steadily building his presence across OTT and films, with Sapne Vs Everyone 2 bringing his performance as Prashant Narula into sharper focus. His portrayal of an aspiring actor navigating the uncertainties of the industry struck a chord with audiences, further cementing his position as one to watch. Cheema also made waves with STORM, produced by Hrithik Roshan and Eshaan Roshan under HRX Films. The project brought an especially encouraging moment for the actor when Hrithik personally reached out to praise his expressions and screen presence, adding to the growing conversation around his potential. His OTT journey spans titles such as Tabbar, Chamak, Black Warrant and Sapne Vs Everyone. Across these projects, Cheema has explored varied characters and genres, building a body of work that reflects his range and willingness to experiment. On the big screen, he has been part of projects including Tere Ishk Mein and Border 2, while also venturing into Punjabi cinema with Pitt Siyapa, opposite Sonam Bajwa. Moving between streaming platforms, theatrical releases and different film industries, Cheema continues to expand his repertoire. With Sapne Vs Everyone 2 putting him firmly in the conversation and speculation surrounding a possible Tripaathy collaboration gathering interest, Cheemas next move is one to keep an eye on. If the buzz translates into an official announcement, October 2027 could mark the beginning of another interesting chapter in his career. Also Read: EXCLUSIVE: Hrithik Roshan praises Paramvir Singh Cheemas performance in STORM: What an outstanding actor you are!
18,000 Iranian cargo containers stuck at Pakistani ports over huge fees: Report
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Oct 29 (IANS) Thousands of containers belonging to Iranian cargo owners remain stranded at Pakistani ports as transport sector representatives report that cumulative storage fees, container demurrage, and overland transport costs for certain shipments have surpassed $25,000, making their clearance economically unviable, according to a report published in Iranwire news portal. According to a report by Mehr News Agency, Mohammad-Ali Kargascha, a board member of the International Transport Companies Association of Iran, estimated the number of stranded containers in Pakistani ports at approximately 18,000 during a meeting of the Tehran Chamber of Commerces Transport Commission. He was quoted as saying that the value of many shipments ranges between $20,000 and $30,000, a figure close to the expenses owners must pay to clear and transport them because of the exorbitant fees levied by the Pakistani authorities. The blockage of these shipments began in March 2026 following maritime transport restrictions triggered by the Middle East war. A portion of the goods was offloaded at Pakistani ports due to rerouting, but their onward transfer to Iran remains bogged down by financial and operational hurdles, the report states. Kargascha cited bills of lading registered under intermediary companies, fears of sanctions of repercussions, and exorbitant fees as key obstacles to resolving the status of the cargo. He added that in response to follow-up notices, owners of only around 1,000 containers have initiated clearance procedures. Peyman Sanandaji, head of the Transport Commission at the Tehran Chamber of Commerce, also said that the matter is being pursued in coordination with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Iranian Embassy in Pakistan. According to him, an updated list of cargo owners, categorized by whether their shipments are destined for Iran or third countries, is set to be transmitted to Pakistani authorities. Sanandaji further revealed that certain unaccredited companies lacking Pakistani approval have collected astronomical sums from cargo owners without taking any effective steps toward clearance, said the report. During the same meeting, Amir Naqiseh, CEO of an international logistics firm, stated that an 80 per cent fee discount, which had been previously negotiated, has yet to be implemented. To mitigate costs, the private sector has proposed transporting the cargo by sea to Chabahar Port using vessels with a capacity of 300 to 400 containers. However, this proposal has not yet reached the execution phase, as it requires coordination with Pakistan and mutual agreement on costs, the report added.
Pakistans economic recovery narrative based on fudged figures: Report
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Oct 29 (IANS) The latest figures released by Pakistans National Accounts Committee contradict the governments earlier narrative that the countrys economy has stabilised, according to a new report. The National Accounts Committee recorded a growth of 2.0 per cent in the final quarter in the last financial year, revised the annual figure down to 3.65 per cent, and added as much as $14.8 billion to recorded imports across five financial years. The hike in the figure for imports shows that the external accounts underwriting the stabilisation story were wrong throughout the period Islamabad claimed to be fixing them. The revised figures show that the improvement in the economy that was earlier shown on paper was based on fudged figures, according to an article in the Greek news website Directus. The International Monetary Funds (IMF) regional assessment this month refused to endorse Pakistans official account on almost every count. The IMF projects Pakistans current account deficit near 1 per cent of output, roughly $4.5 billion, versus Islamabads estimate of about $2.5 billion, and warns the external position will weaken further as imports rise and remittances moderate. The IMF has highlighted that exports have not grown despite years of incentives. Gross financing needs are put at 22 to 25 per cent of output, far above regional peers and a risk in themselves, and its growth forecast of 3.5 per cent sits below the official 4 per cent. Sector-wise details of the fourth quarter show that Pakistans industry contracted by 4.7 per cent while electricity, gas and water supply shrank as much as 33.2 per cent. A finance ministry committee identified discrepancies of roughly $18.13 billion between import data compiled through PRAL and the Pakistan Single Window, with the annual gap widening from $1.4 billion in FY2021 to $6.22 billion in FY2025. The cause was that the Federal Board of Revenue and the Bureau of Statistics had not updated their data since 2017, so they never captured goods entering under newer declaration categories, particularly facilitation schemes. The review was triggered only because Pakistans recorded imports from China diverged from the latter countrys recorded exports. The gap was revealed by Beijings data and not Pakistans institutions. Current data confirms that the external account is deteriorating now rather than stabilising. The trade deficit for the first quarter of this fiscal year widened more than 15 per cent to $10.79 billion, imports rising over 13 per cent against export growth of 11 per cent. The goods deficit on the payments measure widened 21.1 per cent, the current account deficit reached $874 million from $755 million a year earlier, and the overall balance swung to a quarterly deficit of $3.12 billion from a $274 million surplus.
Army shifts J&K anti-drug fight from border surveillance to breaking demand
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Oct 29 (IANS) India has gradually evolved from a transit hub for narcotics into a major consumer market for illegal drugs. The growing threat has prompted the Narendra Modi government to intensify its nationwide campaign against drug trafficking and substance abuse. As part of this crackdown, central and state agencies have focused heavily on Punjab and the northeastern states, where drug trafficking and addiction pose serious challenges. Jammu and Kashmir has also emerged as a key focus area, with several local NGOs warning that substance abuse threatens the future of an entire generation. While the local police and the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) have been at the forefront of efforts to curb the menace, the Indian Army has also been playing a significant role in the fight against drugs. An official said that the Indian Army largely relied on surveillance and intelligence sharing to battle the drug problem. This has largely helped in keeping the supply chains down, as a result of which the transit routes were off the charts for the narcotic smugglers. This, however, led to an increase in drone drops by the Pakistan-based smugglers, the official said. Countering drone-based drug smuggling remains a challenge, with security agencies managing to intercept some consignments while others get through. Drone drops have enabled Pakistani smugglers to recover much of the ground they had lost due to cross-border surveillance and intelligence sharing by the Indian Army, an official said. The Army has realised that tackling drone incursions and keeping transit routes under surveillance alone will not eliminate the drug menace. Its current strategy places greater emphasis on dismantling the domestic consumer market and curbing demand for narcotics, the official added. Another official said the Indian Army is working closely with the Jammu and Kashmir administration and other authorities to tackle the drug menace and curb substance abuse across the Union Territory. Public outreach programmes based on a whole-of-society approach have helped many young people overcome addiction. Community engagement is also being encouraged, with senior citizens and religious leaders playing an active role, the official said. The prime goal of the Indian Army is to engage with society so that there would be early detection of the problem, which in turn would help in effective counselling and other measures which would help youth who are addicted, the official added. Officials say such issues cannot always be tackled by implementing law enforcement tactics. For instance, if the Army and the police block the supply chains and stop drugs from entering Jammu and Kashmir entirely from the border, then the addict would look elsewhere. He or she would look to source drugs from Himachal Pradesh or Punjab, where the drug menace is high. This would automatically lead to a massive spike in drug-related activity in Punjab or Himachal Pradesh. Punjab is already battling the menace in a big way and currently is one of the most affected states in the country. Officials say the approach by the Indian Army to engage with society is the best one, as it aims at eradicating the menace at the roots, whereby there is no demand at all in the consumer market. The results are visible, and the target audience has gone up manifold. In 2021, the number of persons treated stood at 5,382. Statistics for the year 2025-26 show that 46491 persons have been treated. Jammu and Kashmir ranks among the top five states/UTs in India for opioid abuse, with surveys showing that 5.4 lakh individuals are addicted to this substance. About 90 per cent of the hard-core drug users fall within the age demographic of 17 to 33 years. Further data would also reveal that 1.68 lakh children aged 10 to 17 are addicted to this substance. Daily case load at the hospitals to treat the problem have risen from 10-15 cases a day to 150-200. The Officials say that the Indian Armys role remains crucial in this battle. The Army is structured and has plenty of resources at its disposal. It has organised youth engagement and skill training programmes, sponsored sports events, provided medical assistance, and identified supply routes and shut them down completely. The Indian Armys role is also crucial as it helps in a trust-building exercise among the youth who are the future. These are the youths who are susceptible to disinformation campaigns by Pakistan, and once they fall into the trap, they tend to turn against the Indian Army. Further, addicts are also easy prey for the Inter-Services Intelligence-backed elements who lure such youths into committing acts of terror instead of money so that they can purchase drugs. A study showed that addicts spend close to Rs 88,000 a month to sustain their addiction. Having the rehabilitated youth on the side of the Indian Army is also helpful in the long run. They become assets for the region, and once the local population backs the security agencies to the fullest, then it is hard for Pakistan-based elements to crack them and provoke them against the Indian state, an official said.
Pakistan: Five killed, 27 injured after bus plunges into drain in Punjab province
Digital Desk | Islamabad, Oct 29 (IANS) At least five people were killed and 27 others injured after a passenger bus veered into a drain in Hafizabad district of Pakistan's Punjab province on Thursday, local media reported, citing Rescue 1122. Rescue services said that the accident took place in the Fatehke area of Pindi Bhattian tehsil in Hafizabad. Rescue officials said that overspeeding resulted in the driver losing control of the vehicle. Following the accident, teams from Rescue 1122 reached the spot and began rescue operations, Pakistan-based daily Dawn reported. Rescue 1122 said that injured people were provided first aid at the site of the incident while 20 others were taken to the hospital. Rescue teams continued to carry out search operations amid fears that more passengers might be trapped under the bus and the debris. On October 21, as many as 10 people were killed and 44 others injured as a bus overturned after colliding with a road divider on the Indus Highway in Rojhan tehsil of Rajanpur district in Pakistan's Punjab province, local media reported, citing rescue authorities. The accident took place in the Bangla Hidayat area when the bus was reportedly speeding when it hit a road divider and toppled over. Rescue 1122 said that the deceased included seven men, two women and a girl, Dawn reported. Over 38 injured people were taken to the Rajanpur District Headquarters (DHQ) Hospital, while four critically injured people were referred to Dera Ghazi Khan and two seriously injured to Sheikh Zayed Hospital in Rahim Yar Khan. In August, two people were killed and 42 others injured after a bus carrying a wedding party overturned on the Kohlu-Dera Ghazi Khan highway in Pakistan's Balochistan province, Dawn reported. According to police, the bus carrying a wedding party was heading from Rakhni to Kohlu when the accident occurred. A police official said that more than 40 people were injured after a bus overturned due to overloading.
Ex-Congress worker shot at, dragged out of car, attacked with sharp weapons in Ludhiana
Bus Plunges into Drain in Punjab, Pakistan; Five Dead, 27 Injured
A tragic bus accident in Punjab, Pakistan, resulted in five fatalities and 27 injuries as a passenger bus fell into a drain. Bus Plunges into Drain in Punjab, Pakistan; Five Dead, 27 Injured
Meeting of BJP General Secretaries underway in Delhi under Nitin Nabin's chairmanship
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Oct 29 (IANS) A key meeting of the BJP's National General Secretaries began on Thursday under the chairmanship of party President Nitin Nabin at the party headquarters in New Delhi. BJP National General Secretaries, including B.L. Santhosh, Sunil Bansal, Vinod Tawde, Smriti Irani, Satish Poonia, Sanjay Bhatia and Biplab Kumar Deb, among others, are attending the meeting. The meeting is expected to discuss the Opposition's programmes, the prevailing political situation in the country and the party's organisational strategy to counter the Opposition's campaign. The BJP leadership is also expected to deliberate on preparations for the upcoming Assembly elections in five states -- Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Punjab, Manipur and Goa. The focus of the meeting is on strengthening the party organisation and chalking out election strategies. The meeting assumes significance as the BJP begins preparations for the upcoming electoral battles while assessing the Opposition's political activities and the evolving political situation. Meanwhile, on Wednesday, Nitin Nabin led a march through Delhi's Chandni Chowk as part of the BJP's 'Save Democracy, Remove Anarchy' campaign. The march was held amid escalating political tensions over the allegations of vote theft and alleged irregularities in the SIR exercise that have been raised by the Congress and other Opposition parties. The ruling party has sought to counter the Opposition's campaign by mobilising its own leaders and workers. As part of these efforts, Nitin Nabin personally led the march in Chandni Chowk on Wednesday, underscoring the party's focus on the issue. He took potshots at the Gandhi family, saying that the 'Congress-I', a faction of the grand old party formed by late Prime Minister Indira Gandhi in January 1978, stands for Italian Congress rather than Congress-Indira, while terming the party's electoral defeats as purification by citizens.
Paramjit Kaur, wife of Daljit Singh, a resident of Bhamme Kalan village in Punjab's Mansa district who died under suspicious circumstances, has demanded justice and the release of her detained family members and villagers, alleging that police seized her husband's body while they were taking it to Mansa for a protest.
US Citizen Diljit Dosanjh Reportedly Used Old Aadhaar To Pay
A report by The Times of India about an unnamed Indian singer who reportedly acquired US citizenship in 2022 has raised questions over compliance with immigration rules during visits to India. While the report does not identify the singer, its details have drawn attention to Punjabi singer and actor Diljit Dosanjh, who was reported to [] The post US Citizen Diljit Dosanjh Reportedly Used Old Aadhaar To Pay 50 Instead Of 1,100 During Taj Mahal Visit appeared first on The Commune .
At least 16 account holders, mostly farmers, have accused employees of Punjab National Banks Aichhar village branch in Greater Noida of allegedly diverting fixed deposits worth an estimated Rs 35 crore. The bank has suspended five staffers, including the branch manager, and launched an internal probe. Police have registered an FIR and begun an investigation, while customers have protested outside the branch demanding the return of their money.
The Mumbai Crime Branch found alleged involvement of Lawrence Bishnoi gang and a Punjab link in Tiger Shroff firing incident. The Crime Branch's investigation has uncovered crucial information regarding the procurement of weapons. According to sources, a Zigana pistol and 20 rounds of ammunition were purchased from Amritsar for Rs 2.50 lakh, acting on instructions from Anil Panditan alleged close associate of the Lawrence Bishnoi gang. It is alleged that Kunal, Sumit, and Jatin went to Amritsar and purchased a pistol and ammunition from an undisclosed location there.
CME, workshop on interventional radiology held at AIIMS Jammu
Jammu, Oct 28:All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), Jammu organised two day Interventional Radiology Continuing Medical Education (CME) programme titled Imaging to interventions: Bridging diagnosis and treatment and hands on workshop on October 24 and 25, 2026, at Convention Centre, AIIMS Jammu. The academic event was organised by the Department of Radiodiagnosis and Imaging, AIIMS Jammu, in collaboration with Indian Society of Vascular and Interventional Radiology (ISVIR) Chandigarh-Punjab-Himachal Pradesh states chapter with the objective of understanding and strengthening of Interventional Radiology services in the region. This programme featured distinguished faculty and radiologists from across North India, including PGIMER Chandigarh, AIIMS New Delhi and VMMC and Safdarjung Hospital, New Delhi. Prominent among those were Prof (Dr) Ajay Kumar (Professor Neuroimaging and Interventions, PGI Chandigarh) and Dr Harish Bhujade (Associate Professor, PGI Chandigarh), who are also president and secretary of ISVIR Chandigarh, Punjab and Himachal Pradesh states chapter respectively. The academic programme commenced with expert lectures on How to do safe DSA and Imaging and interventions in acute stroke, highlighting the importance of timely intervention in acute stroke management, Carotid stenting and beyond, uterine artery embolization and interventions in GI bleed. Hands-on workshops were conducted on Interventions in acute stroke, ablation and TACE in tumours, PICC line insertion and Vascular Closure Devices and FNACs and core needle biopsy. Hands-on workshop was also conducted on vacuum assisted breast biopsy (VABB). In a distinctive educational format, participants including Junior and Senior Residents rotated on different stations and practised hands-on training on the Interventional Radiology phantoms available for workshop. On the second day, CME programme featured dedicated lectures on genitourinary, hepatobiliary, obstetrical and pulmonary vascular interventions. Prof (Dr) Ajay Kumar appreciated AIIMS Jammu campus and the department of Radiodiagnosis and Imaging. Speaking on the occasion, Prof (Dr) Sanjeev Sinha, Executive Director and CEO, AIIMS Jammu, welcomed the distinguished faculty and participants and highlighted the importance of interventional radiology in modern patient care. Prof Sinha also congratulated the Department of Radiodiagnosis and Imaging and the organising team for conducting this academic programme and bringing together experts and healthcare professionals from renowned institutes on a common platform for learning and collaboration. He appreciated the institute's valued collaboration with the ISVIR and looked forward to fostering this association through many more successful academic and scientific events in the future. The programme was coordinated by Dr Manik Mahajan, Organising Chairperson and Additional Professor, Department of Radiodiagnosis, Dr Gita Devi, Organising Secretary and Associate Professor; Dr Sugandhi Malgotra and Dr Ankit Prabhakar, Organising Co-Secretaries; residents and supporting staff of the Department of Radiodiagnosis and Imaging, AIIMS Jammu contributing to the successful conduct of this CME and workshops. The CME-cum-workshop concluded with a vote of thanks.
Election Commission reviews Punjab poll readiness for 2027 elections
The News Mill
Sikh Pilgrims from Pakistan Offer Prayers at Golden Temple
A delegation of 49 Sikh pilgrims from Pakistan visited the Golden Temple in Amritsar The post Sikh Pilgrims from Pakistan Offer Prayers at Golden Temple appeared first on Khalsa Vox .
Devotion and Spiritual Fervour Mark Guru Ram Das Ji
The sacred precincts of the Golden Temple reverberated with Gurbani kirtan and prayers as The post Devotion and Spiritual Fervour Mark Guru Ram Das Jis Parkash Purb at Golden Temple appeared first on Khalsa Vox .
Pride in Being Called Indian, Distance from Pakistani Identity: Why?
A young woman from Pakistan named Farha Baloch recently made a statement that sparked The post Pride in Being Called Indian, Distance from Pakistani Identity: Why? appeared first on Khalsa Vox .
Cooperative Federalism: The Constitutional Compact India Must Renew
Indias federalism is not a contest over who commands and who complies. It is a constitutional compact designed to reconcile national unity with regional autonomy, common purpose with political diversity, and effective governance with democratic accountability. Its success depends not on the concentration of power in one centre, but on the capacity of the Union and the States to exercise their respective constitutional responsibilities in partnership. As India confronts increasingly complex economic, environmental, technological and geopolitical challenges, cooperative federalism has become more than a constitutional aspiration. It is an essential condition of democratic stability, institutional trust and effective government. The constitutional scholar Granville Austin captured this distinctive design in The Indian Constitution: Cornerstone of a Nation, describing Indias model as one of cooperative federalism. His insight remains relevant: Indias federal structure was shaped by the need to preserve national unity while accommodating an extraordinary diversity of languages, cultures, political traditions and regional aspirations. The constitutional challenge was never simply to distribute power, but to make that distribution work. The constitutional architecture of cooperation The Constitution does not expressly use the phrase cooperative federalism, but its institutional architecture reflects that philosophy. Article 1 describes India as a Union of States. Articles 245 and 246, read with the Seventh Schedule, distribute legislative powers between the Union and the States. Articles 256 and 257 address aspects of executive coordination, while Articles 268 to 293 govern financial relations. Article 263 provides for an Inter-State Council, and Article 280 establishes the Finance Commission. These provisions establish both the autonomy of constitutional authorities and the need for coordination. They do not envisage government as a collection of watertight compartments. The Constitution also gives the Union significant powers, reflecting the historical circumstances of Partition and the imperative of national integration. Yet this central strength must not be confused with an unrestricted authority to displace State autonomy. The constitutional framework requires a balance between national interests and the legitimate responsibilities of elected State governments. The Supreme Courts decision in S.R. Bommai v. Union of India (1994) reinforced the constitutional significance of federalism, while the Courts wider jurisprudence has emphasised that constitutional powers must be exercised within their prescribed limits. Federalism is therefore not merely an administrative arrangement. It is part of the constitutional structure through which democracy is organised, and power is held accountable. A strong Union requires strong States The false choice between a strong Union and strong States must be rejected. National unity is not weakened when States exercise legitimate autonomy; it is strengthened when regional aspirations find democratic expression within the constitutional framework. Indias federal experiment differs from federations formed through an agreement among previously sovereign political units. Its Constitution sought to preserve the unity of an exceptionally diverse country while assigning substantial responsibilities to different levels of government. That design requires flexibility, consultation and mutual respect. States are not administrative branches of the Union. They possess constitutionally defined powers and independent democratic mandates. Equally, State autonomy does not extinguish the Unions responsibility for national security, macroeconomic stability and matters constitutionally entrusted to it. The objective must be constitutional partnership, not institutional rivalry. Political diversity must not become federal discrimination Indias democratic landscape is marked by different political parties governing at the Centre and across the States. This is neither an anomaly nor a constitutional inconvenience. It is a natural expression of electoral pluralism. The Constitution recognises governments formed through democratic processes, not governments entitled to cooperation only when their political affiliations coincide. A State government cannot be treated as an adversary merely because it belongs to the Opposition. Nor should legitimate access to national resources, institutional consultation or development opportunities depend on political alignment. The true test of cooperative federalism arises when governments disagree. Constitutional maturity lies in managing differences through dialogue, established institutions and lawnot through confrontation, public recrimination or the politicisation of constitutional offices. Governments change; the federal compact must endure. Fiscal federalism: Autonomy requires resources The most consequential test of federalism is financial. States deliver many of the public services citizens experience directly, including healthcare, education, policing, agriculture, welfare and local infrastructure. Yet their ability to discharge these responsibilities depends substantially on the distribution of taxation powers, transfers and grants. A federation cannot function equitably if responsibilities are decentralised while financial discretion is disproportionately centralised. The Finance Commission is therefore a pivotal constitutional institution. Tax devolution and grants-in-aid must be guided by transparent principles that reconcile the needs of less-developed States, population-related responsibilities, fiscal discipline and developmental performance. States also require sufficient fiscal space to respond to local priorities and innovate in public policy. Predictable transfers, timely payments and meaningful consultation are essential to that autonomy. Fiscal federalism should not become a relationship between a permanent donor and a dependent recipient. It must recognise the States as partners in generating national prosperity and delivering constitutional promises. The GST Council: Cooperation without compulsory unanimity The Goods and Services Tax Council, established under Article 279A, offers an important institutional example. It brings the Union and the States into a common forum to deliberate on significant questions of indirect taxation and the functioning of the GST system. The experience has also exposed tensions over revenue compensation, fiscal autonomy, tax rates and the balance between uniformity and State flexibility. These disagreements do not necessarily indicate failure. Federal systems are designed to accommodate competing interests. The real test is whether institutional mechanisms permit disagreements to be negotiated fairly. The GST Councils enduring lesson is that cooperation does not require unanimity on every question. It requires a genuine commitment to consultation, reasoned compromise and shared responsibility. Governors and the limits of constitutional discretion The office of the Governor presents another important test of federal balance. The Governor occupies a constitutional position within the parliamentary system, but the democratic legitimacy of State government ordinarily derives from its elected legislature and its majority in the Assembly. Questions concerning assent to Bills, government formation and the exercise of discretionary powers must be resolved through constitutional principles rather than partisan calculations. In State of Punjab v. Principal Secretary to the Governor of Punjab (2023), the Supreme Court underscored the importance of constitutional responsibility and the limits on gubernatorial inaction. The broader principle is that constitutional authorities must not frustrate the functioning of elected institutions through indefinite delay or an expansive interpretation of their discretion. The Governor is not an alternative political executive. The office must be exercised with restraint, neutrality and fidelity to the Constitution. Cooperative federalism requires every constitutional authority to respect the sphere of responsibility assigned to others. Cooperation for challenges that cross borders Competitive federalism has encouraged States to attract investment, improve infrastructure, generate employment and experiment with development strategies. Such competition can stimulate innovation and improve governance. But competition cannot substitute for cooperation where challenges transcend territorial boundaries. Air pollution moves across State borders. Rivers connect multiple jurisdictions. Migration, epidemics, energy security and transport infrastructure demand coordinated responses. Climate change, artificial intelligence and disaster management require shared standards, information and institutional capacity. India must therefore embrace competitive and cooperative federalism together: competition where it encourages better governance, and cooperation where common interests demand collective action. The COVID-19 pandemic demonstrated how closely national coordination and State-level implementation are connected. It also exposed the costs of inadequate consultation and uneven institutional capacity. The lesson extends to future public health emergencies, environmental crises and technological disruptions. Renewing the institutions of federal dialogue India already possesses institutions capable of strengthening this partnership, but their effectiveness depends on regular engagement and political will. The Inter-State Council under Article 263 should be used more consistently for structured discussion of Centre-State relations and inter-State disputes. The Finance Commission must retain its credibility as an impartial constitutional institution. The GST Council should remain a forum for meaningful negotiation, and NITI Aayog should facilitate substantive policy cooperation rather than merely communicate decisions already taken. Parliament, too, must give serious consideration to State perspectives when legislative proposals substantially affect their constitutional responsibilities. Consultation must occur early enough to influence policy. It cannot be reduced to a procedural formality after decisions have effectively been made. Constitutional morality and the road ahead Ultimately, cooperative federalism depends as much on constitutional morality as on institutional design. The Union must respect legitimate State autonomy; States must recognise legitimate national interests; Governors must act impartially; and elected governments must exercise their powers responsibly. Political parties must distinguish the interests of the Republic from the immediate advantages of partisan competition. The gravest threat to federalism is not disagreement. It is the erosion of institutional trust through the politicisation of constitutional powers. Indias federal compact must now be renewed through transparent fiscal arrangements, predictable intergovernmental cooperation, stronger consultation and scrupulous respect for constitutional boundaries. The question is not whether the Union or the States should prevail. It is whether both can discharge their responsibilities more effectively by working together. A confident India must be a confident Union of confident States. As Granville Austins understanding of cooperative federalism reminds us, national unity and regional autonomy need not be competing objectives. Properly balanced, they reinforce each other. Cooperative federalism is not a concession from the Union to the States. It is a constitutional obligation arising from the structure of the Republic. Renewing that compact is essential to Indias democratic credibility, developmental ambitions and constitutional future. (The Author is a Senior Advocate, Supreme Court of India, a public intellectual and a constitutional expert)
Pakistan minister invites Punjab CM Mann
Punjab CM Bhagwant Mann had said that he wished to accept the invitation from the organisers of the Lahore International Punjabi Conference in Lahore from November 27 to 29 and would want to visit Sikh shrines in Pakistan
