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
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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
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 .
Experience The New Punjabi Music Video 'Sohniye' by Mohammad Faiz & Asees Kaur
Get ready to be swept away by the latest punjabi track 'Sohniye' beautifully sung by Mohammad Faiz & Asees Kaur. This captivating track feature mesmerizing music given by Prini Siddhant Madhav and beautiful lyrics are penned by Sameer Anjaan. Don't miss the chance to witness Mohammad Faiz & Asees Kaur's performance in the captivating punjabi video track 'Sohniye'. 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 Mohammad Faiz & Asees Kaur. Indulge in the latest punjabi video tracks of 2026, groove to the soulful compositions by Prini Siddhant Madhav, immerse in the punjabi music video tracks.
Experience The New Punjabi Music Video 'Currency' by Hukam
Get ready to be swept away by the latest punjabi track 'Currency' beautifully sung by Hukam. This captivating track feature mesmerizing music given by Baxbee and beautiful lyrics are penned by Saron Ala. Don't miss the chance to witness Hukam's performance in the captivating punjabi video track 'Currency'. 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 Hukam. Indulge in the latest punjabi video tracks of 2026, groove to the soulful compositions by Baxbee, immerse in the punjabi music video tracks.
Gill falls for 1 run: India Test captain fails on Ranji return ahead of NZ Tests
Shubman Gill scored just one run for Punjab against Chhattisgarh in his Ranji Trophy return ahead of Indias Test series against New Zealand, starting November 19. Ajay Mandal dismissed him after five deliveries. Gill will play the first three New Zealand ODIs before preparing for the Tests. Despite the setback, he has scored 1,095 international runs this year, including four centuries.
Amit Shah to Visit Punjab on October 20 Amid Drug Crisis Concerns
Amit Shahs upcoming visit to Punjab aims to address the states drug crisis and strengthen BJPs position ahead of elections. Amit Shah to Visit Punjab on October 20 Amid Drug Crisis Concerns
Watch: Shubman Gill Suffers Shock Dismissal In Ranji Trophy, Internet Has Questions
India's Test and ODI skipper Shubman Gill could only score 1 run from 5 balls before returning to the Punjab dressing room in the Ranji Trophy match against Chattisgarh.
14 killed, 28 injured as truck ploughs into devotees outside temple in Gwalior
Gwalior, Oct 18: Fourteen persons were killed, and at least 28 others suffered injuries when a speeding truck ploughed into several devotees before crashing into a temple's entry gate in Madhya Pradesh's Gwalior district in the wee hours of Sunday, police said. A wall of the temple crashed under the impact of the collision, they said, adding that two to four of the injured persons were critical. The incident, which occurred around 1.30 am outside the Sheetla Mata temple near a slope on Chinor Road, raised concerns about security arrangements at the shrine, as the truck, with a Punjab registration number, entered the no-entry zone, officials said. The truck crashed into several devotees and roadside shops before hitting the temple's entrance gate, an official said. An investigator said the trucks brakes may have failed, forcing the driver to swerve left in a desperate attempt to control the vehicle. Had it continued straight, he said, it would have ploughed into at least 600 to 700 devotees. Fourteen persons were killed and 28 injured, acting Inspector General of Police, Gwalior range, Asit Yadav told PTI. The impact brought down a temple wall on the structure's left side, he said. Earlier, a senior police official had said that nearly 40 persons were injured in the incident. The truck driver fled from the spot, and police teams were searching for him. Asked how the truck entered the no-entry zone, Yadav said the lapses will be investigated. After the incident, the bodies and injured persons were shifted to different hospitals, including Gwalior's trauma centre. Relatives of victims gathered near the post-mortem facility at the trauma centre and expressed anger over the incident, with many questioning how a heavy truck could enter an area where, they claimed, even a bicycle could not pass. Lokendra Singh Tomar, nephew of the deceased Sarla Tomar, asked how the truck was allowed to enter the temple premises despite security arrangements. His aunt was on her way to offer prayers at the shrine, he told reporters and demanded answers from those responsible for the accident. Pawan Rathore (23), a resident of Gadaipur in Gwaliors Hazira area, was among those killed. His family took the body away amid inconsolable grief. He had gone to the temple to offer prayers when the accident occurred. Sandeep, a relative of injured devotee Nikesh, said the family received a phone call around 5 am informing them that Nikesh had been hurt at the temple. When they reached the hospital, he was in critical condition with both legs fractured and was placed on a ventilator, he added. Savitri, a relative of the deceased Divyansh, said the family realised he was missing after the group came out of the temple following prayers. Despite searching for him and alerting the police, they could not locate him at first. Later, they went back inside and identified him, she said. Gajendra Prajapati, the brotherinlaw of an injured man, said his relative, who ran a shop at the temple, was admitted to hospital after the accident. He added that his relative told the family he could not comprehend what had happened, as smoke had engulfed the area.
Akash Anand to Hold Public Meetings Across Five Districts in Uttar Pradesh
BSP leader Akash Anand plans public meetings in Uttar Pradesh and a seminar in Punjab, emphasizing party responsibilities and community engagement. Akash Anand to Hold Public Meetings Across Five Districts in Uttar Pradesh
Depleted Mumbai batting faces Himachal test; Gill returns for Punjab
Mumbai have drafted in Divyansh Saxena and Angkrish Raghuvanshi, who are likely to open the innings
JEE Main Registration 2027 LIVE: Application Form Details, Documents Required, Exam Dates
JEE Main Registration 2027 Live Updates:The exam is expected to be conducted in thirteen languages, i.e., English, Hindi, Assamese, Bengali, Gujarati, Kannada Malayalam, Marathi, Odia, Punjabi, Tamil, Telugu and Urdu.
From Assam to Bihar, Kerala, Odisha, Punjab, Tamil Nadu, Telangana, Sikkim, West Bengal and more we check the full list of states that announced DA and DR hikes for employees and pensioners in 2026.
Gill, Shami in focus as Ranji Trophy round two begins
Mullanpur, Oct 17: Indias Test and ODI captain Shubman Gills return to Ranji Trophy action for Punjab will be the main attraction when the second round of the domestic first-class tournament gets underway across the country on Sunday. Gill missed Punjabs opening-round fixture, with former India Under-19 captain Uday Saharan leading the side in his []
Sabarmati-Jammu Tawi Express extended up to Katra with 3 new halt points
Jammu, Oct 17: The Ministry of Railways has approved the extension of Sabarmati BG-Jammu Tawi Express up to Katra with effect from October 18, 2026 from Sabarmati and from October 20, 2026 from Katra. The extension has been approved with three new halting points i.e., Samba, Bari Brahmana and Udhampur railway stations. Thousands of passengers, Railway officials stated, would get direct benefit from this decision. However, due to operational reasons, consequent upon its extension, the timings of around two dozen trains passing through Jammu Railway Division, originating or terminating at Katra have also been partially revised. The extended train will ensure direct train connectivity from Gujarat to Vaishno Devi. After the extension, lakhs of pilgrims of Mata Vaishno Devi coming from Gujarat, Rajasthan, Haryana, Punjab will get the facility to reach Katra directly without transhipment, said Raghvender Singh, Public Relations Inspector, Jammu Railway Division of Northern Railway. Additional halts of train numbers 19223/19224 approved at Samba, Bari Brahmana and Martyr Captain Tushar Mahajan Udhampur railway stations will facilitate the passengers, providing direct long-distance train facility to the local people, students, traders and military personnel of these areas. It will be especially beneficial for the people connected with the Bari Brahman industrial area, Singh said. He asserted that in terms of tourism and economy also, the extended daily train would connect Katra via Sabarmati, Bathinda, Firozpur, Jalandhar, Pathankot, boosting religious tourism as well as trade and employment. With regard to the extended trains schedule, according to Singh, the train number 19223 will depart from Sabarmati at 10.25 am and will reach Jammu Tawi at 15.35 pm on the second day and Katra at 18.55 pm. On its return journey, train number 19224 will depart from Katra at 4.50 am and reach Jammu Tawi at 7.40 am, which is convenient for onward journeys. Jammu Division appeals to all passengers to avail maximum benefit of this extended facility. For detailed information about the train, information can also be obtained from the official website of Railways and NTES, Singh said. Giving a detailed account of the revised schedules of trains following extension of Sabarmati BG-Jammu Tawi Express up to Katra, Singh informed that train number 22478 - Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra - New Delhi Vande Bharat would depart from Katra at 5.40 am, from Udhampur at 6.08 am, from Jammu at 7.08 am and from Martyr Captain Sunil Kumar Choudhary Kathua railway station at 8.01 am with effect from October 20, 2026. Train number 14503 Kalka-Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra will depart from Jammu Tawi at 3.20 am, from Udhampur at 4.12 am and arrive at Katra railway station at 4.47 am, effective from October 20. Train number 15656 - Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra-Kamakhya will depart from Katra at 3.40 am, from Udhampur at 4.06 am, with effect from October 21. Train number 14612 - Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra - Ghazipur City will depart from Katra at 3.40 am with effect from October 22. Train number 19415 Sabarmati-Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra will depart from Jammu at 4.15 am, from Udhampur at 5.16 am and reach Katra at 6.25 am, with effect from October 25. Train number 74909 - Jammu Tawi-Martyr Captain Tushar Mahajan DMU will depart from Jammu at 8.10 am, reach Udhampur at 10.10 am, with effect from October 20. Train number 22318 will depart from Jammu at 6.50 am with effect from October 21. Train number 16031 will depart from Jammu at 8.42 am, from Udhampur at 10.38 am and reach Katra at 11.50 am with effect from October 18. Train number 16317 will depart from Jammu at 8.30 am, from Udhampur at 10.02 am, reach at Katra at 11.50 am with effect from October 23 and train number16787 will depart from Jammu at 8.42 am, from Udhampur at 10.38 am, reach Katra at 11.50 am from October 19. Similarly, time schedules have been partially revised for around over a dozen other trains passing through Jammu Railway Division, originating or terminating at Katra.
Continuing a proud family tradition of military service, the 35-year-old joins his younger brother The post From Punjab to Australia: Kapurthala-Born Amandeep Singh Mathon Commissioned into the Royal Australian Air Force appeared first on Khalsa Vox .
Echoes of Jallianwala Bagh: Navtej Sarna Reflects on History, Resistance and the Idealism of Youth
Former diplomat and author discusses the revolutionary movements that shaped Punjab, the enduring relevance The post Echoes of Jallianwala Bagh: Navtej Sarna Reflects on History, Resistance and the Idealism of Youth appeared first on Khalsa Vox .
Shubman Gill to Play for Punjab in Ranji Trophy Before New Zealand Tour
Shubman Gill will represent Punjab in the Ranji Trophy against Chhattisgarh before heading to New Zealand for ODIs. Shubman Gill to Play for Punjab in Ranji Trophy Before New Zealand Tour
Bullets lodged in beating hearts: Clinical paradox managed without risky surgery
Punjab stubble fires persist despite checks, 18 FIRs registered
Punjab basmati eyes gains as Middle East shifts to bulk shipping
Time has come to end atmosphere of fear in Punjab: Pilot
115 families get property cards under Mera Ghar, Mere Naam Scheme
190 middle schools without sports, craft teachers
With Key Posts Vacant, Regular Teachers Handle Multiple Classes Across Subjects
Fresh twist in land dispute murder, cousin cleared; father-son duo held
Wife booked for taking husbands licensed pistol after marital dispute
Rose Garden library project stuck in limbo, readers left waiting
Sainis 2-year report card doubles as BJPs Punjab pitch
PPCB earns national recognition for Punjab's Clean Air Initiatives
Sippiyan Sitaare Trailer : Aarvinder Kaaur and Inder Jeet Starrer Sippiyan Sitaare Official Trailer
Sippiyan Sitaare: Watch the Official trailer from punjabi Web movie 'Sippiyan Sitaare' starring Aarvinder Kaaur and Inder Jeet. Sippiyan Sitaare is directed by Simmi Dhiman. To know more about Sippiyan Sitaare, watch the video. Check out the latest punjabi trailer, new movie trailer, trending punjabi movie trailer, Aarvinder Kaaur and Inder Jeet's videos at Etimes - Times of India Entertainment.
Man linked to Amritpal party held for tearing Punjab CM's posters during drug protest
Punjab Chief Ministers France Trip Sparks Political Controversy
Punjabs CM Bhagwant Mann faces criticism for celebrating his birthday in France amid local unrest over drug issues. Punjab Chief Ministers France Trip Sparks Political Controversy
BJP questions CM Manns plan to visit France as Punjab battles drugs, gangsters
NGT issues notice to Punjab over failure to enforce plastic ban in Jalandhar
Punjab-origin man booked for wife's murder in US
