Punjab News

US deported 3,258 Indian nationals in 2025; 18,822 since 2009: EAM Jaishankar tells Parliament

The United States has deported as many as 18,822 Indian nationals since 2009, including 3,258 this year since January 2025, the Union government told the Rajya Sabha on Thursday. Responding to supplementaries in the Rajya Sabha, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar said state governments and the National Investigation Agency (NIA) have also investigated cases of human trafficking , in which Punjab has the maximum number of cases. Since 2009, a total of 18,822 Indian nationals have been deported to India, the minister informed the Rajya Sabha in a written reply to a question. He said 617 Indians had been deported in 2023, and as many as 1,368 were deported in 2024. Since January 2025, a total of 3,258 Indian nationals have been deported by the United States to India. Of these, 2,032 individuals (approximately 62.3 per cent) were deported on regular commercial flights, while the remaining 1,226 (37.6 per cent) arrived on US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) or US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) operated charter flights. 'Main pagal nahi hoon': How an Indian youth's deportation shook the US citizen in me Replying to supplementaries, the minister said the NIA established some years ago an anti-human trafficking division, and it has today a mandate to cover human trafficking. State governments have also launched investigations into human trafficking cases, he noted. The NIA has registered and investigated 27 human trafficking cases, resulting in 169 arrests and chargesheets against 132 individuals. The NIA arrested two important traffickers in Haryana and Punjab on August 7 and then in Himachal Pradesh, two more people on October 2, the minister informed. Jaishankar said, as far as state governments are concerned, The maximum number of trafficking cases is from the state of Punjab. The Punjab government has constituted an SIT and a fact-finding committee. As per information given by them to us, 25 FIRs have been registered against 58 illegal travel agents, and 16 accused have been arrested. In the case of state of Haryana, 2,325 cases have been registered and 44 FIRs have been registered and 27 people have been arrested. Also, one significant trafficker has been arrested by the state of Gujarat, he said. Jaishankar said the Ministry of External Affairs remains engaged with the US side to ensure the humane treatment of deportees during US ICE/CBP deportation operations. The Ministry has strongly registered its concerns with the US authorities on the treatment of deportees , particularly with respect to the use of shackles, especially on women and children, the minister told the house in his written reply. No instance of shackling of women and children has been brought to the notice of this Ministry since the 5th February deportation flight, he said. Jaishankar said the US authorities have conveyed that the Restraining Policy for US deportation flights is in place since 19 November 2012 as part of the Standard Operating Procedure of the ICE. They have also conveyed that their policy of shackling deportees is followed to ensure the safety and security of all passengers on these flights. In the past, they claim that there have been instances of violence by deportees against fellow deportees and supporting crew members on such deportation flights. While women and minors are generally not shackled, the flight officer in charge of a deportation flight, in the interest of the safety of the mission, has the final say on the matter, he said. It is also pertinent to note that wanted criminals and gangsters who have been accused of terrorism, homicide, attempt to murder, extortion, etc., have also been removed on these deportation flights. In India's case, absconding criminals such as Lakhwinder Singh and Anmol Bishnoi , against whom lookout notices and arrest warrants have been issued by our law enforcement agencies, have been brought back on such deportation flights, the minister said in his written reply. UNHCR chief says US deportation practices violate the law Based on the accounts and testimonies given by returning deportees, he said the Central and respective State Governments along with the relevant law enforcement agencies, have registered a number of cases, and investigations as well as actions are ongoing against several illegal immigration agents, criminal facilitators and human trafficking syndicates that run these rackets. On a specific case of one Harjit Kaur (73) who was deported by US on February 25, the minister told the member that even though she was not handcuffed, she was maltreated during her detention and the matter was raised by them with the US authorities. Whenever any flight with deportees comes, the deportees are invariably interviewed by the officials of the Goverment of India. In this case, our immigration officers have confirmed that she was not handcuffed. We have seen reports reportaining to this, he said. While Harjit Kaur was not handcuffed, she was maltreated. She was maltreated in detention before she was put on the flight. On September 26, we have officially taken up her maltreatment with the American Embassy. We have made clear our very strong concern about the manner of her treatment and have asked the American authorities to look into this matter, Jaishankar told the house. Around the world, migrants are being deported at alarming rates how did this become normalised?

18,822 Indian Nationals Deported By US Since 2009, 3,258 In 2025: Jaishankar In RS

New Delhi, Dec 4: As many as 18,822 Indian nationals have been deported by the United States since 2009, including 3,258 since January 2025, the government informed the Rajya Sabha on Thursday. Responding to supplementaries in the Rajya Sabha, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar said state governments and the National Investigation Agency (NIA) have also investigated cases of human trafficking, in which Punjab has the maximum number of cases. Since 2009, a total of 18,822 Indian nationals have been deported [] The post 18,822 Indian Nationals Deported By US Since 2009, 3,258 In 2025: Jaishankar In RS appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Hardik Pandya Mania Forces Venue Shift For BarodaGujarat SMAT Match

Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium: Hardik Pandyas comeback triggered such overwhelming fan frenzy that organisers had no choice but to shift the BarodaGujarat SMAT fixture to a high-capacity stadium. The match, originally scheduled here at the Gymkhana Ground, was relocated to the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium, known for hosting major international matches and IPL fixtures. It provides stronger security architecture and greater crowd-handling capacity, making it the preferred choice for a turnout of this scale. Officials confirmed that the decision was taken after unusually large gatherings of fans were recorded near team hotels, practice nets, and ticket counters far exceeding typical domestic tournament turnout. In Barodas previous game against Punjab, play was interrupted multiple times due to pitch invasions as fans rushed out to meet Hardik. The surge, organisers say, is driven entirely by the excitement to watch Hardik Pandya, whose star power continues to attract fans in overwhelming numbers. The enthusiasm for Hardik Pandya is unbelievable. Fan turnout, enquiries, and crowd movement exceeded our projections by a huge margin. To ensure safety and smooth match operations, we decided to shift the match to Rajiv Gandhi Stadium, a senior organising official said. Hardik returned to competitive cricket after a long injury layoff on Tuesday and smashed a 42-ball 77 not out for Baroda as the team chased down a 223-run target against Punjab to clinch their second consecutive victory at the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy. He sustained an injury during Indias Asia Cup Super Fours clash against Sri Lanka and has been out of action since. The allrounder subsequently missed the ODI and T20I series against Australia and was unavailable for selection for the ongoing 50-over series against South Africa. However, after exiting the BCCI Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru and upon receiving RTP (Return to Play) clearance from the board, Hardik joined the Baroda team, led by his brother Krunal Pandya, for the ongoing Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy tournament. He sustained an injury during Indias Asia Cup Super Fours clash against Sri Lanka and has been out of action since. The allrounder subsequently missed the ODI and T20I series against Australia and was unavailable for selection for the ongoing 50-over series against South Africa. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Opting to bowl first after winning the toss, Baroda restricted Gujarat 70 with Raj Limbani picking 3 for 5. In response, Baroda chased down the target in 6.4 overs for the loss of two wickets. Article Source: IANS

Felt like Chamkila himself was watching me, Diljit Dosanjh

Punjabi artist Diljit Dosanjh, nominated for an Emmy for his portrayal of Amar Singh Chamkila, shared an emotional moment from the biopic's trailer launch. He felt Chamkila's presence, believing the legendary singer was watching him. Dosanjh expressed gratitude for the opportunity to honor Chamkila's legacy.

MP records higher stubble burning than 5 states

BHOPAL: As the country grapples with worsening air quality, it has been revealed that Madhya Pradeshthe home state of Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhanis contributing the maximum to stubble burning. According to the recent statistics pertaining to monitoring paddy residue burning in the country via satellite remote sensing, the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) detected as many as 33,028 active burning events in six study states. The six study states are: Punjab, Haryana, UP, Delhi, Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh. As per the recent report, out of the 33,028 active fire events detected across the six states, a maximum 17,067 or 52% events was detected in MP. Importantly, these 17,067 active burning events detected in MP, between September 15 and November 30, 2025, were more than the collective 15,961 similar active events reported in the same period in the five other states. Among the five other states, 5,114 burning events were detected in Punjab, 662 in Haryana, 7290 in UP, just 5 in Delhi and 2,890 in Rajasthan. Similar picture was revealed when it came to 292 crop residue active burning events detected in the six study states on November 30. MP again attained the top position with 160 burning events, which was more than the total 132 burning events in the 5 other states. Burning events detected in the 5 other states on November 30, included 2 in Punjab, 3 in Punjab, 125 in UP, nil in Delhi, and just 2 in Rajasthan. Further analysis of the crop residue burning events detected through the satellite remote sensing technology recently revealed that the Gwalior-Chambal region contributed the maximum to stubble burning in the forest-rich central Indian state. Out of the 17,067 active burning events between September 15 and November 30, a maximum 2,643 were reported in Sheopur district, which borders Rajasthan. As many as 1,930 events were detected in Gwalior district, followed by 1,797 events in the adjoining Datia. Other districts of the same region where significant active burning events were detected included Ashoknagar (506) and 64 in Morena. Raging menace Using satellite remote sensing, ICAR detected 33,028 paddy residue burning events across six states between Sept 15 and November 20, 2025 The six states are Punjab, Haryana , Uttar Pradesh ,Delhi , Rajasthan , Madhya Pradesh MPs 17,067 incidents exceeded the combined 15,961 fires reported by the other five states The other states reported Punjab - 5,114 Haryana - 662 Uttar Pradesh - 7,290 Delhi - 5 Rajasthan - 2,890 Burning events in the five states on Nov 30: Punjab 2, Haryana 3, UP 125 Delhi 0, Rajasthan 2.

Weather today: IMD's heavy rainfall warning for Tamil Nadu, Kerala and Andhra; cold wave likely in Chandigarh, Rajasthan. Check full prediction

The India Meteorological Department has issued warnings for very heavy rainfall in coastal Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, and Kerala, with schools in Chennai and Tiruvallur closed due to incessant rain. Meanwhile, parts of North India are experiencing cold wave conditions and dense fog, impacting mobility and traffic. The IMD has warned of cold wave conditions for Punjab, Haryana, Chandigarh and north Rajasthan.

PSU Bank stocks slump after govt rules out FDI hike

Indian Bank plunged 5.5%, while Punjab National Bank and Canara Bank tumbled 4.3% and 3.8%, respectively. Bank of Baroda and Punjab & Sind Bank dropped more than 3% each.

Punjab govt to establish advanced horti centre at Ladhowal

Bebo and her love for Punjabi swaad and Sindhi Sundays

Bollywood's beloved foodie, Kareena Kapoor, revealed her love for robust Punjabi and Sindhi flavors, contrasting with husband Saif Ali Khan's milder preferences. She detailed her daily cravings for dishes like kadhi chawal and rajma chawal, and Sunday specials including Sindhi curry and aloo tuk, attributing her taste to her half-Sindhi heritage.

Punjabs plan for law on tree felling in urban areas gets finance dept nod; to be tabled before cabinet next, then assembly

Punjab institutions receive 286 research projects in three years

Vijay Merchant Trophy: 5 from Mohali chosen for Punjab team

Bajwa demands truth on Punjab disaster relief funds

ICAR data: Madhya Pradesh leads parali burning with 52% of fire events among six states

BHOPAL: Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhans home state, Madhya Pradesh, is contributing the maximum to parali burning (paddy residue/stubble burning) in the country, data showed. As per the recent statistics pertaining to monitoring paddy residue burning in the country via satellite remote sensing, the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) said as many as 33,028 active burning events in six study states. The six study states included Punjab, Haryana, UP, Delhi, Rajasthan, and Madhya Pradesh. As per the recent report, out of the 33,028 active fire events detected across the six states, a maximum 17,067 or 52% events were detected in MP. Importantly, these 17,067 active burning events detected in MP, between September 15 and November 30, 2025, were more than the collective 15,961 similar active events reported in the same period in the five other states. Among the five other states, 5,114 burning events were detected in Punjab, 662 in Haryana, 7,290 in UP, 2, 890 in Rajasthan and just five in Delhi. A similar picture was revealed when it came to 292 crop residue active burning events detected in the six study states on November 30. MP again attained the top position with 160 burning events, which was more than the total 132 burning events in the five other states. Burning events detected in the five other states on November 30, included two in Punjab, three in Punjab, 125 in UP, zero in Delhi and just two in Rajasthan. Further analysis of the crop residue burning events detected through the satellite remote sensing technology revealed that the Gwalior-Chambal region contributed the maximum to stubble burning in the forest-rich central Indian state. 'Incorrect to pass burden onto farmers': SC questions blaming stubble burning for Delhi pollution Out of the 17,067 active burning events between September 15 and November 30, a maximum of 2,643 were reported in Sheopur district, which borders Rajasthan. As many as 1,930 events were detected in Gwalior district of the same Gwalior-Chambal region, followed by 1,797 such events in the adjoining Datia district. The other districts of the same region where significant active burning events were detected included Ashoknagar (506) and Morena district (64). Even when it came to the 160 active burning events detected on November 30 in the state, Gwalior district contributed the maximum at 62. At least 98 or 61% of the total 160 active burning events in MP as on November 30 were detected in districts of Gwalior-Chambal region. Jabalpur district in Mahakoshal region, adjoining Hoshangabad district of central MP and Satna district in Vindhya region were close behind the districts of Gwalior-Chambal region. According to informed sources, MP having the dubious distinction of being the leader in paddy stubble burning isnt a new phenomenon, but has been happening at least since the last two years. The state government tabled figures related to cases registered against those indulging in Parali burning since April 2020 in the Vidhan Sabha on Tuesday. A total of 546 such cases were registered against offenders in various parts of the state in little less than five years. Out of those 546 cases, as many as 506 cases were registered between December 2023 and November 2025. According to Gwalior district collector Ruchika Chauhan, the Parali burning incidents have declined significantly this year compared to last two years, due to multi-pronged efforts by authorities, including imposing penalties ranging between Rs 5,000 and Rs 15,000 based on area of cultivation, use of harvesters having machines to ensure that crop residue is negligible and sustained awareness campaigns.

Sugs Lloyd secures 43.37 crore power infrastructure order from PSPCL

The order, precisely valued at 43,37,82,924, is designated for Loss Reduction Works on a turnkey basis under the central government's Revamped Distribution Sector Scheme (RDSS) in Punjab.

Punjab launches fellowship programme to combat substance abuse

Super Cup semifinals are here after a month-long break

FC Goa gears up for semifinal showdown with Mumbai City FC; East Bengal will be wary of plucky Punjab FC

Eternal farewell: Dharmendra's ashes immersed in holy Ganga at Haridwar

HARIDWAR: The ashes of legendary Bollywood actor Dharmendra, a titan of Indian cinema who won the hearts of millions for decades, were consigned to the sacred waters of the River Ganga on Wednesday. The solemn ceremony, attended by his close family, marked the final rites for the actor affectionately known as the 'He-Man' of Hindi cinema. Dharmendras sons, Sunny Deol and Bobby Deol, performed the rituals according to tradition at a private ghat in Shravan Nath Nagar, Haridwar. The entire family, including Dharmendra's grandsons, was present during the occasion. The event was kept strictly private, with the family opting not to share details with the media. The proceedings began early Wednesday morning. While the main immersion took place at the private ghat associated with a local hotel, the family also participated in Ganga Snan (holy dip) and puja at the hotel premises. Notably, Dharmendras grandson, Karan Deol, performed an earlier ritual, immersing some ashes at the revered Brahmakund on Har Ki Pauri around 10:00 AM. The rituals were overseen by the family's hereditary priest, Pandit Rahul Shrotriya, from the Pandit Motiram Rajaram Gaddi lineage. Family members were visibly emotional throughout the proceedings. Following the completion of the rites, the bereaved family departed for Jolly Grant Airport. Pandit Rahul Shrotriya shared a moving anecdote following the ceremony. He recounted how Sunny Deol and his family were astonished upon seeing meticulously maintained records detailing their lineage spanning ten generations in the priest's ledger. Sunny Deol himself expressed surprise, Pandit Shrotriya stated. He mentioned that he had visited Uttarakhand previously during the shooting of his film Gadar 2 but regretted not knowing about the presence of his traditional priests then, as he certainly would have visited them. The priest added that Sunny Deol promised to reconnect with the familys hereditary priests very soon. Dharmendra, who passed away on November 24 at the age of 89, carved an indelible mark on Indian cinema. Rising from a humble background in Punjab to become one of Bollywoods most enduring stars, his journey remains a testament to perseverance. His powerful screen presence and versatile acting earned him the moniker 'He-Man,' ensuring his legacy as an evergreen superstar continues long after his final curtain call.

India Pacer Mohit Sharma Announces Retirement From All Formats Of Cricket

ODI World Cup: India pacer Mohit Sharma has announced his retirement from all formats of cricket, bringing the curtains down on a career that spanned nearly 14 years. Mohit made his international debut in 2013 and represented India in 26 ODIs and eight T20Is, claiming 37 wickets across formats. He was part of Indias squad reaching the semifinals of the 2015 Mens ODI World Cup, held in Australia and New Zealand, apart from representing Haryana in the domestic cricket circuit. Today, with a full heart, I announce my retirement from all formats of cricket. From representing Haryana to wearing the India jersey and playing in the IPL, this journey has been nothing short of a blessing, wrote Mohit on his Instagram post on Wednesday. A very special thank you to the Haryana Cricket Association for being the backbone of my career. And my deepest gratitude to Anirudh Sir, whose constant guidance and belief in me shaped my path in ways words cannot express. Thank you to the BCCI, my coaches, my teammates, IPL franchises, support staff, and all my friends for their love and support, he added. Known for his disciplined newball spells and variations like cutters, slower balls, and slow bouncers in the death overs, Mohit was also a prominent figure in the IPL, picking 134 wickets in 120 games. He turned out for Chennai Super Kings, Punjab Kings, Gujarat Titans, and, more recently, for Delhi Capitals. Mohit was one of CSK's main bowlers in his first three seasons with the wickets and took 20 wickets in 15 innings in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2013. He won the purple cap in the 2014 edition of the league after picking 23 wickets in 16 games. Known for his disciplined newball spells and variations like cutters, slower balls, and slow bouncers in the death overs, Mohit was also a prominent figure in the IPL, picking 134 wickets in 120 games. He turned out for Chennai Super Kings, Punjab Kings, Gujarat Titans, and, more recently, for Delhi Capitals. Also Read: Live Cricket Score He was also GT's highest wicket-taker in IPL 2024, with 13 wickets in 12 matches. Special thanks to my wife, who always handled my mood swings and anger, and supported me through everything. I look forward to serving the game in fresh ways. Thank you so much, Innings over, gratitude forever, added Mohit. Article Source: IANS

Punjab paying heavy price', Raghav Chaddha raises alarm over toxic water in land of rivers in RS

Punjab Regimental Centre inducts 962 Agniveers in Jharkhand's Ramgarh district

A statement issued by the PRC said parents of all the Agniveers were felicitated with the traditional 'Gaurav Padak' for allowing and motivating their children to join the Indian Army.

Hardik Pandya Returns For SA T20I; Gill Picked With Subject To Fitness

Asia Cup Super Fours: The Board of Control for Cricket in Indias (BCCI) senior mens selection committee has picked Indias squad for the upcoming T20I series against South Africa. ODI and Test skipper Shubman Gill and all-rounder Hardik Pandya are set to mark their return from injuries, but the formers participation is subject to fitness clearance from the BCCI CoE (Centre of Excellence). Gill sustained a neck injury during the first Test between the two sides in Kolkata and was subsequently ruled out of the red-ball games as well as the ODI series. Pandya, meanwhile, picked up an injury during India's Asia Cup Super Fours contest against Sri Lanka and has been out of the international setup since then. The fifth T20I, to be played on December 19, will also mark the end of South Africas tour of India, which commenced on November 14 with a two-game Test series and was followed by the ongoing ODI series. Regular skipper Suryakumar Yadav will continue to lead the side, with Gill as his deputy. Most of the T20I squad remains the same as to the contingent that travelled to Australia for Indias most recent T20I series. However, Rinki Singh, who didnt get much of a chance in the previous tour, has been dropped. The T20I series will commence on December 9 in Cuttack, with action moving to New Chandigarh for the second T20I on December 11. The second T20I will also see two new stands being inaugurated by the Punjab Cricket Association at the venue in honour of India captain Harmanpreet Kaur and former all-rounder Yuvraj Singh. The third T20I will be hosted by the HPCA Stadium in Dharamsala, while the fourth game will be played at the Ekana Stadium in Lucknow. South Africas tour of India will conclude at the worlds largest ground - the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. The T20I series will commence on December 9 in Cuttack, with action moving to New Chandigarh for the second T20I on December 11. The second T20I will also see two new stands being inaugurated by the Punjab Cricket Association at the venue in honour of India captain Harmanpreet Kaur and former all-rounder Yuvraj Singh. Also Read: Live Cricket Score India squad for T20I series against SA: Suryakumar Yadav (C), Shubman Gill (VC)*, Abhishek Sharma, Tilak Varma, Hardik Pandya, Shivam Dube, Axar Patel, Jitesh Sharma (WK), Sanju Samson (WK), Jasprit Bumrah, Varun Chakaravarthy, Arshdeep Singh, Kuldeep Yadav, Harshit Rana, Washington Sundar Article Source: IANS

5 Amritsar trips and 41 lakh: More details emerge in Gurgaon lawyers Pakistan spying case

Investigators uncovered new details in the Nuh advocate Rizwan spying case. His associate, Musharraf, described trips to Amritsar and alleged hawala money transfers. Meanwhile, Rajasthan CID arrested Prakash Singh from Punjab for suspected ISI spying, sharing Army movement details. These arrests are part of ongoing counter-espionage operations.

Trident Group Highlights Sustainable Paper Innovation at PaperEx 2025

Trident Group, a leading manufacturer of agro-based, eco-smart paper, participated in the 17th International Exhibition & Conference on Pulp, Paper & Allied Industries (PaperEx 2025), held from 3-6 December 2025 at Yashobhoomi, Dwarka, India International Convention & Expo Centre (IICC), New Delhi. The Group showcased its sustainability-led paper portfolio, underscoring its commitment to circular manufacturing and conscious resource utilisation.   Trident Group Paper Team at PaperEx 2025   At the exhibition, Trident highlighted its pioneering approach to wheat-straw-based paper - a solution enabling zero tree cutting while converting agro-waste into a valuable renewable resource. The stall design further brought the brand’s sustainability philosophy to life through minimalism, natural textures, and an ethos of environmental responsibility.   Reinforcing its ongoing transformation, the Group also showcased how automation and digitalisation are being integrated into its paper operations to enhance precision, minimise waste, and improve transparency across production processes. These efforts reflect Trident’s long-term focus on building a more efficient, technology-enabled, and environmentally conscious manufacturing ecosystem.   In addition to its current portfolio, Trident announced plans to expand its range with new variants in copier and maplitho, along with refreshed designs within its notebooks category. These additions are designed to meet evolving customer expectations while staying true to the brand’s sustainability-first product philosophy.   Speaking on the participation, Rajnish Kumar Gera, CEO - Paper & Chemicals, Trident Group , said, “Our participation at Paperex 2025 was a resounding success, reaffirming Trident Group’s position as a pioneer in sustainable paper solutions. The overwhelming response from corporate customers, partners, and visitors reflects the growing trust in our eco-conscious innovations – The Good Paper. With thousands of potential leads and meaningful conversations, this event has paved the way for stronger collaborations and a greener future.”   About Trident Group Trident Limited is the flagship company of the Trident Group, a leading Indian business conglomerate with a global footprint. Headquartered in Ludhiana, Punjab, Trident operates across three major segments - Textiles, Paper, and Chemicals - with world-class manufacturing facilities in Punjab and Madhya Pradesh.   A vertically integrated producer of textiles (Yarn, Bath & Bed Linen) and wheat-straw-based paper, Trident is among India’s largest home textile players. Its towels, yarns, bedsheets, and writing & printing paper are trusted by millions of customers across India and worldwide.   Supplying national brands, captive brands, and leading retailer-owned labels, Trident is widely recognized for its commitment to product excellence, social responsibility, and environmental stewardship. The company has been honoured with numerous awards from customers, partners, and government bodies.

Modi government has 'nearly signed death warrant' for Aravalli hills: Sonia Gandhi

NEW DELHI: Congress parliamentary party chairperson Sonia Gandhi on Wednesday claimed that since coming to power, the Modi government has displayed a particularly venal streak of cynicism in relation to environmental protection, while alleging that it has now early signed a death warrant for Aravalli hills. She demanded that the government must withdraw the amendments it ulldozed through Parliament in the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980 as well as the Forest Conservation Rules (2022). Gandhi said the government's declaration that any hills in the Aravalli range with an elevation of less than 100 metres are not subject to the strictures against mining is an open invitation for illegal miners and mafias to finish off 90% of the range which falls below the height limit set. The Aravalli range, which runs from Gujarat through Rajasthan and till Haryana, has long played a significant role in Indian geography and history. It has served as a barrier to the spread of desertification from the Thar Desert to the Gangetic Plains, guarded Rajasthan's proudest forts such as Chittorgarh and Ranthambore, and served as the cradle of spirituality for communities across northwest India, Gandhi said in an article published in The Hindu . The Modi Government has now nearly signed a death warrant for these hills, already denuded by illegal mining, she said. Gandhi pointed out that on the northernmost end of the Aravalli range, the national capital has embarked on its annual smog season this month. A hazy mist of dust, smoke and particulate matter has been settling down on millions of citizens as they go about their daily lives breathing in toxic air. Even as the smog becomes a part of our yearly routine, research increasingly shows that it is a full-scale, slow-motion public health tragedy. Estimates of the human toll of this pollution go as high as 34,000 deaths in just 10 cities annually, Gandhi said in her article titled Dismal state of India's environment. 'Road to hell is paved with good intentions': Congress slams government over new Aravalli definition Last week the news headlines reflected yet another evolving tragedy when the Central Ground Water Board (CGWB) reported that 13%-15% of tested groundwater samples in Delhi contain uranium beyond the permissible limit for human consumption, she said. Shamefully, water samples from Punjab and Haryana reflect even higher levels of uranium contamination . One does not need to dwell on the frightening health implications that regular consumption of such water for daily activities can have on impacted populations, the former Congress president said. These news items cannot be seen disparately as they are each causes and consequences of a crisis that has engulfed India in the last decade - a deep-seated and continuing disregard for the environment in government policy making, she said. Ever since coming to power, the Modi government has displayed a particularly venal streak of cynicism in relation to environmental protection, combining its proclivity to encourage the reckless exploitation of natural resources with a callous disregard for consequences on the environment, Gandhi said. The Forest Conservation (Amendment) Act, 2023 exempted large categories of land and projects from forest clearance rules, easing diversion for other purposes, she claimed. Gandhi further alleged that the Draft Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) notification 2020 sought to dilute public hearings, expand exemptions and reduce compliance reporting. The Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ) Notification 2018 eased construction rules along India's shorelines, opening ecologically sensitive coastal areas and fishing communities' habitats to commercial real estate and industrial activity, Gandhi said. The Environment Ministry has more often been in the news for circumventing due process and weakening regulations rather than implementing them or taking proactive measures to halt the slide, the Congress leader said. Another emerging trend has been an insidious tendency to pit the environment against the local communities that protect it, when politically convenient for the government, she said. The Forest Survey of India has been mischievously attributing the loss of forest cover over the last decade to the implementation of the Forest Rights Act, 2006, Gandhi said. Shockingly, even the Minister concerned has echoed the same claims. In June 2024, the National Tiger Conservation Authority called for the eviction of almost 65,000 families from tiger reserves across the country, she said. It was not just a breach of the spirit of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972 which mandates that all relocations must be voluntary; it was also unnecessarily inimical, ranging the environment against local communities, Gandhi said. India needs a new deal for the environment. First, we must resolve to do no further harm. We must halt the large-scale deforestation that is planned or currently underway across the country: in Great Nicobar, in north Chhattisgarh's Hasdeo Aranya, and in Madhva Pradesh's Dhirauli, she said. We need to crack down on the rampant illegal mining in the Aravalli range and other eco-sensitive regions such as the Western Ghats. We need to put an end to the indiscriminate destruction of mountains in the Himalayan belt which has exacted a heavy toll on human lives these past few years, Gandhi added. She said on a policy level, there is a need to urgently review the laws and policy changes of the last decade which have led us down this disastrous path. The Modi government must withdraw the amendments it bulldozed through Parliament in the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980 as well as the Forest Conservation Rules (2022) - which are anti-Adivasi and allow the clearing of forests without consulting those who live there, she said. The blatantly illogical and dangerous practice of providing post-facto environmental clearances to big corporations that violate environmental laws -- one of the Modi Government's few home-grown policy innovations --cannot continue, she asserted.

Punjab records highest groundwater extraction in India, says CGWB report

CHANDIGARH: Groundwater extraction in the country is the highest in Punjab, followed by Rajasthan and Haryana, according to the latest National Compilation of Dynamic Ground Water Resources of India, 2025 report of the Central Ground Water Board (CGWB). The findings show that 25 per cent of the 6,762 total blocks in India have been categorised as over-exploited, critical or semi-critical, a situation concentrated in nine states, Punjab, Haryana, Rajasthan, Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Uttar Pradesh, Delhi and Puducherry. As per the report, groundwater extraction in Punjab stands at 156.36 per cent, the highest in the country, followed by Rajasthan at 147.11 per cent and Haryana at 136.75 per cent, all significantly above the national average of 60.63 per cent. At the national level, annual groundwater extraction has seen a marginal decline, from 27.66 billion cubic metres (BCM) in 2023 to 26.27 BCM last year. The total annual ground water recharge of Punjab has been assessed as 18.6 bcm and annual extractable ground water resource as 16.8 bcm. Out of total 153 assessment units including three urban areas taken for study, 111 assessment units (72.55 per cent) have been categorized as Over-exploited, 10 blocks (6.54 per cent) as Critical, 15 blocks (9.80 per cent) as Semi Critical and 17 blocks (11.11 per cent) as Safe, the report said. Similarly, out of 50175.27 square kilometers recharge worthy area of the state, 34294.3 sq km (68.35 per cent) area are under Over-Exploited, 4353.15 sq. km (8.68 per cent) under Critical, 4478.11 sq km (8.92 per cent) under Semi-critical and 7049.71sq km (14.05 per cent) under Safe category, reads the report. For Rajasthan, the report states,Out of the 302 assessment units (blocks and urban areas), 213 units (70.53 per cent) have been categorized as Over Exploited, 23 units (7.62 per cent) as Critical, 27 units (8.94 per cent) as Semi-Critical, 36 units (11.92 per cent) blocks as Safe and 3 units (0.99 per cent) as Saline. Similarly, out of 317010.74 sq km recharge worthy area of the state, 222266.46 sq km (70.11 per cent) area are under Over-Exploited, 19404.23 sq. km (6.12 per cent) under Critical, 22535.05 sq km (7.11 per cent) under Semi-critical, 43869.11 sq km (13.84 per cent) under Safe and 8935.89 sq km (2.82 per cent) area under Saline categories of assessment units. In Haryana, the situation is similar. While in Haryana, out of total 143 assessment units (blocks/Urban), 91 units (63.64 per cent) have been categorized as Overexploited, 6 units (4.20 per cent) as Critical, 15 units (10.49 per cent) as Semi Critical and 31 units (21.68 per cent) as Safe categories of assessment units. Similarly, out of 43,205.81 sq. km recharge worthy area of the State, 26,828.05 sq. km (62.09 per cent) area are under Over-Exploited, 1,170.46 sq. km (2.71 per cent) under Critical, 4,253.89 sq. km (9.85 per cent) under Semicritical, 10,953.42 sq. km (25.35 per cent) under Safe categories of assessment units, it added. The report assesses the total annual groundwater extraction of the entire country for 2025 at 247.22 bcm. Agriculture remains the largest consumer, accounting for 87 per cent, or 215.10 bcm, followed by 11 per cent for domestic use (27.89 bcm) and 2 per cent for industrial use (4.23 bcm). In the present assessment, total annual groundwater recharge has been pegged at 448.52 bcm, while the annual extractable groundwater resource stands at 407.75 bcm. The average stage of groundwater extraction at the national level is 60.63 per cent. Out of 6,762 blocks in the country, 730 units (10.80 per cent) are categorised as over-exploited, and 201 blocks (2.97 per cent) are classified as critical where extraction ranges from 90 to 100 per cent. Another 758 blocks (11.21 per cent) fall under the semi-critical category, while 4,946 units (73.14 per cent) are considered safe, with extraction below 70 per cent. Additionally, 127 blocks (1.88 per cent) have been listed as saline due to brackish or saline groundwater in phreatic aquifers. The report highlights that the percentage of over-exploited, critical and semi-critical blocks exceeding 25 per cent of total units is found only in nine states, Haryana, Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh, Punjab, Rajasthan, Tamil Nadu, Uttar Pradesh, Delhi and Puducherry. It attributes the situation to region-specific factors, Over-exploitation of ground water resources could be due to various region-specific reasons. The assessment units located in the north-western part of the country (particularly in the states of Punjab, Haryana, Delhi and Uttar Pradesh) have plenty of replenishable ground water resources but because of the over extraction beyond the annual ground water recharge, many of these units have become Over-exploited. Overexploited units are also common in the western part of the country, particularly in Rajasthan and Gujarat where the prevailing arid climate results in low recharge of ground water and hence stress on these sources, the report stated. It further adds, In peninsular India, over-exploited units are wide spread in Karnataka, Tamil Nadu and parts of Andhra Pradesh and Telangana which could be attributed mainly to the low storage and transmission capacities of aquifers of the hard rock terrains, which results in reduced availability of the resource. The report also notes that in Arunachal Pradesh, Delhi, Goa, Kerala, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, Tripura, Andaman and Nicobar, Chandigarh, Jammu and Kashmir, Ladakh and Lakshadweep, domestic groundwater extraction exceeds 40 per cent. Groundwater extraction stands between 90 and 100 per cent in Delhi, and between 70 and 90 per cent in Tamil Nadu and Puducherry. In most other states and Union Territories, including Andhra Pradesh, Assam, Bihar, Chhattisgarh, Goa, Gujarat, Himachal Pradesh, Jharkhand, Karnataka, Kerala, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, Odisha, Sikkim, Telangana, Tripura, Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, West Bengal, Andaman and Nicobar, Chandigarh, Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu, Jammu and Kashmir, Ladakh and Lakshadweep, extraction levels are around 70 per cent. The report concludes that compared to the Dynamic Ground Water Resource Assessment of 2024, the total annual groundwater recharge has marginally increased from 446.9 bcm to 448.52 bcm.

Weather today: Kerala, Tirupati brace for more rainfall on December 3; IMD says cold wave likely in Punjab, Rajasthan. Check update

IMD weather update December 3: Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh and Puducherry are likely to get more rainfall on Wednesday, December 3 as cyclone Ditwah moves towards Tamil Nadu-Puducherry coasts. The IMD said cold wave conditions are likely to prevail in Punjab, Madhya Maharashtra and Rajasthan. West Bengal is likely to experience dry weather.

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Bike-Borne Miscreants Open Fire On Rajasthan-Bound Bus In Punjab, Conductor Injured

Panic erupted on the FirozpurFazilka road as assailants fired at a bus in Punjab, injuring the conductor.

Dharmendra's ancestral property worth Rs 5 cr has NOT gone to his kids

Veteran actor Dharmendra, who passed away recently, chose to gift his ancestral property in Punjab, valued at Rs 5 crore, to his uncle's grandsons. This decision, made eight years prior, stemmed from his nephews' continued connection and care for the land, ensuring its preservation.

Rice procurement in Punjab, Haryana ends, pan-India purchase up 13% in October-November

Due to early arrival of the paddy this year, the Centre allowed procuring agencies in Punjab and Haryana to begin purchase from mid-September and in Tamil Nadu from September 1

SMAT 2025-26 Baroda vs Punjab | Hardik Pandya the cynosure of all eyes, as always

If quick singles and breezy twos showed that he was back to full fitness, the rasping drives and lofted shots showed that he barely lost his touch

Cricket stars, selfies, security slips: Punjab vs Haryana thriller in Hyderabad draws 10,000 fans

Uppal stadium packed as Hardik Pandya and Abhishek Sharma put on star-studded show, prompting repeated pitch invasions, helping Baroda win

Punjabs fav winter dish is hit in Hyderabad: Top 5 spots to try

As winter settles into Hyderabad, food lovers begin craving warm, filling meals. The evenings become cooler, tea cups get refilled more often, and the appetite naturally turns towards something rich, slow-cooked and satisfying. Winter is that season when food is not just eaten it is truly enjoyed. One dish that perfectly suits the season is 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 .

US plans to revoke 3000 commercial drivers license certifications; Punjabi truck drivers likely to be scrutinised

CHANDIGARH: The United States Transport Department announced that it plans to revoke the certification of nearly 3,000 commercial drivers license (CDL) training providers unless they comply with training requirements in the next 30 days. Followingly, over 16,000 training providers listed on the Training Provider Registry (TPR) are being reviewed to identify and remove noncompliant providers. As a result, over 1.50 lakh Punjabi truckers might face intense scrutiny. Indian-origin driver accused in truck crash that killed three people in US was not 'intoxicated': Report In a statement, US Transportation Secretary Sean P. Duffy has announced the removal of nearly 3,000 commercial drivers license (CDL) training providers from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administrations (FMCSA) Training Provider Registry (TPR) for failing to equip trainees with the Trump Administrations standards of readiness. Another 4,500 training providers were placed on notice due to potential noncompliance. Trump administration is cracking down on every link in the illegal trucking chain. Under Joe Biden and Pete Buttigieg, bad actors were able to game the system and let unqualified drivers flood our roadways. Their negligence endangered every family on Americas roadways, and it ends today. Under President Trump, we are reigning in illegal and reckless practices that let poorly trained drivers get behind the wheel of semi-trucks and school buses, said Duffy. US halts work visas for foreign truck drivers The Training Provider Registry lists all providers authorised to offer federally required Entry-Level Driver Training for CDL students. FMCSAs review of the 16,000 training providers listed on the TPR to identify and remove noncompliant providers is only the first step. CDL Training Providers are being removed from the TPR for falsifying or manipulating training data, neglecting to meet required curriculum standards, facility conditions, or instructor qualifications and failing to maintain accurate, complete documentation or refusing to provide records during federal audits or investigations. If you are unwilling to follow the rules, you have no place training Americas commercial drivers. We will not tolerate negligence, added FMCSA Administrator Derek D. Barrs. This is the latest action taken to root out unqualified drivers and corrupt operators from the trucking industry. Under President Trump, USDOT is focused on raising the standard for roadway safety through accountability, compliance, and enforcement, a statement added. The department said that the training providers who receive a notice of proposed removal have 30 days to respond to FMCSA and provide evidence of compliance to avoid removal from the registry. During this period, the providers name will be included on the TPR Proposed Removal List, and the provider must notify all current and scheduled driver-trainees of its proposed removal status. The North American Punjabi Truckers Association estimates that about 150,000 Sikh truck drivers work in the United States, and they make up about 40 per cent of truck driving on the West Coast and about 20 per cent nationwide.

Hardik Smashes Unbeaten 77 On SMAT Return To Help Baroda Win

Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy: India allrounder Hardik Pandya smashed a 42-ball 77 not out for Baroda as the team chased down a 223-run target against Punjab to clinch their second consecutive victory at the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy here on Tuesday. Notably, this was Hardik's first outing in almost three months, as he returned to competitive cricket after a long injury layoff. He sustained an injury during Indias Asia Cup Super Fours clash against Sri Lanka and has been out of action since. The allrounder subsequently missed the ODI and T20I series against Australia and was unavailable for selection for the ongoing 50-over series against South Africa. However, after exiting the BCCI Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru and upon receiving RTP (Return to Play) clearance from the board, Hardik joined the Baroda team, led by his brother Krunal Pandya, for the ongoing Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy tournament. Speaking of the match, Punjab posted 222/8 in their 20-over quota, riding on half-centuries from skipper Abhishek Sharma and top-order batter Anmolpreet Singh. Naman Dhir played a decent knock, scoring 39 off 28 balls, while Prabhsimran Singh, Nehal Wadhera, and Sanvir Singh finished with identical scores of 16 runs. Raj Limbani was the pick of the bowlers for Baroda, while Hardik ended up conceding 52 runs in his four-over spell, managing just the lone wicket of Anmolpreet. Baroda got off to a solid start to their chase thanks to the 66-run opening stand between Vishnu Solanki and Shashwat Rawat. However, two quick wickets brought Shivalik Sharma and Hardik on the crease. The duo stitched a formidable 109-run stand for the third wicket before Shivalik had to retire out. However, Hardik kept going and notched up seven fours and four sixes to score an unbeaten 77 as Baroda chased down the target with five balls to spare. Baroda got off to a solid start to their chase thanks to the 66-run opening stand between Vishnu Solanki and Shashwat Rawat. However, two quick wickets brought Shivalik Sharma and Hardik on the crease. Also Read: Live Cricket Score The selection committee will likely announce Indias T20I squad for the forthcoming five-game series against South Africa this week. Article Source: IANS

From Assam to Kerala: How Indian states got their names

India's diverse states bear names reflecting their rich cultural tapestry, drawing from local languages, Sanskrit, ancient kingdoms, and historical identities. From the 'Home of Snowy Mountains' in Himachal Pradesh to the 'Land of Five Rivers' in Punjab, each name tells a unique story of origin and heritage.

Pandyas blazing 77* powers Baroda to record chase; fan breaks security cordon to take selfie - Watch

Hardik Pandya made a strong comeback to competitive cricket. He scored an unbeaten 77 to guide Baroda to a seven-wicket win against Punjab. Baroda chased down 223 runs. Pandya finished the match with three consecutive sixes. This marks an encouraging return after his injury.

Harsher winter this year: What residents of Delhi, UP, Gujarat, Rajasthan, & Telangana need to know about IMDs warning

This winter, central and north India are bracing for a colder season with an increased number of cold wave days, according to the IMD. Regions like Madhya Pradesh, Punjab, Haryana, and Delhi are expected to experience below-normal temperatures and prolonged cold spells, posing risks to health, transport, and air quality.

ISIs WhatsApp Spy With Operation Sindoor Link Arrested in Rajasthan

Jaipur: Rajasthan Polices CID Intelligence Wing has arrested a Punjab resident, Prakash Singh alias Badal (34), for allegedly spying for Pakistans ISI after he was detained near a military area in Sri Ganganagar while gathering sensitive information. Inspector General of Police (Intelligence) Prafulla Kumar said Singh, a native of Ferozepur, had been in continuous contact [] The post ISIs WhatsApp Spy With Operation Sindoor Link Arrested in Rajasthan appeared first on Northlines .

Glenn Maxwell opts out of IPL 2026; pens emotional goodbye to fans

Australian all-rounder Glenn Maxwell has withdrawn from the IPL 2026 auction, concluding his impactful league journey. This decision follows a disappointing IPL 2025 season with Punjab Kings, where he scored only 48 runs in seven matches. Maxwell's exit joins a trend of prominent overseas players opting out of the upcoming tournament.

Punjab Kings star player Glenn Maxwell pulls out of auction, likely to end IPL career

Australia's Glenn Maxwell pulls out of auction, hints at ending IPL career

When an Earthquake Stopped Play: Cricket's Rare Tremor Interruptions

Few days back, the play on the third day of Ireland's second Test in Dacca, Bangladesh, was suddenly stopped, during the second ball of the 56th over of Ireland's first innings. Reason: A 5.7 magnitude earthquake in Dhaka around 10.38am local time. The impact of the earthquake was felt in Kolkata, several parts of West Bengal, and Assams Guwahati also, where the second India- South Africa Test was scheduled to play after a few days. The moment the earthquake struck the visitors were at 165 for 5 when play was suddenly interrupted, leaving players and officials visibly startled. Play was stopped but players stayed on the field at the Shere Bangla National Stadium. All others related to the teams also came on the ground while spectators ran for the safety cover. Play resumed after approximately four minutes. For many it was a new experience but not for the Ireland head coach Heinrich Malan who said, I've been involved in a couple of earthquakes from my time living in New Zealand. The match was going on. I was in the press box. It was a terrifying situation. The press box collapsed - it was a terrible situation, Ariful Islam Roney, a Bangladesh sports journalist present in the press box, revealed. This is probably the first-time play stopped in a Test match due to an earthquake but not the first-time earthquake that has found mention in cricket. In 2016 the earthquake hit North India and Gujarat Lions IPL side was in a hotel at Mohali for their match against Kings XI Punjab. The players were evacuated from their hotel. The tremors were felt around 3:58 pm, measuring 6.8 on the Richter Scale. The overseas players Dale Steyn, Aaron Finch and Andrew Tye shared their experience on social media. Tye spoke to Cricket Australia and revealed, I was sitting on the end of my bed fixing a cricket bat and it felt like the bed started to move. I was like what happened there and I looked around the room and certain things were shaking, so I thought it must be an earthquake. Christchurchs Hagley Oval is a permanent reminder of the earthquake that devastated Christchurch in 2011. The earthquake, which registered 6.3 on the Richter scale, resulted in the deaths of more than 100 people. Incidentally, the third day of the Test between New Zealand and Australia in 2016 (the second Test match played at this stadium), fell on the fifth anniversary of the earthquake and a minute's silence was observed during the lunch break at 12.51pm, the same time the earthquake struck. Another surprise is both the sides of the 2016 Test, also felt tremors on reaching Christchurch twice, before the start of the Test. The Hagley Oval became the city's major cricket venue only due to the damage to Lancaster Park, by earthquake. In 2022, an Under-19 World Cup clash between Zimbabwe and Ireland was briefly halted, due to a 5.2 magnitude earthquake at the Queens Park Oval, Port of Spain. The commentator Andrew Leonard shouted on the air, We are... I believe we are having an earthquake right now. In the box. We are indeed having an earthquake. It felt like not just a train going by behind us, but the whole Queen's Park Oval media centre rocked. Ireland spinner Matthew Humphreys was bowling the fifth bowl of the sixth over to Brian Bennett when the front-on camera showing the action began to shake furiously. Play was not interrupted, although the broadcaster's camera wobbled and the tremors were felt. Also Read: Live Cricket Score The best India earthquake story occurred during the first unofficial Test between Lord Tennyson's XI and India at Lahore in November 1937. On the second day of the four-day match, at the Bagh-e-Jinnah (Lawrence Gardens) ground, a tremor that lasted for approximately 90 seconds was felt. Its on record that a clock in the pavilion fell to the ground with a crash. Play was stopped for two minutes and after that match resumed. Lord Tennyson, standing in the slips, thought he had a sunstroke when the buildings around the ground started shaking.

MHA tells Haryana not to seek separate Assembly building in Chandigarh

CHANDIGARH: With 14 months left for the Punjab Assembly election and to avoid another controversy, the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has declined the Haryana governments proposal to construct a separate assembly building in Chandigarh. Highly placed sources said the MHA has advised senior Haryana officials not to pursue the matter further. The officials had recently approached the ministry, which categorically directed them not to take the proposal ahead with the Chandigarh Administration. At present both Punjab and Haryana share the assembly building located in the Capitol Complex, a UNESCO World Heritage Site where new construction is not permitted. Political parties in Punjab have consistently opposed the Haryana governments demand for a separate building. Sources stated that such a land swap may not fall within the purview of the Capital of Punjab (Development and Regulation) Act, 1952, which governs land use in Chandigarh. It may also be challenged as a violation of the Punjab Reorganisation Act, 1966, the law that restructured the old Punjab into present-day Punjab, Haryana, Himachal Pradesh and Chandigarh. The Chandigarh Administration had earlier agreed to allot a 10-acre plot to Haryana for constructing its separate assembly building and a piece of land was identified near the IT Park in the city.

Weather today: Chennai, Andhra Pradesh on high rainfall alert; IMD warns of more cold waves in Delhi, Punjab. Check latest update

Weather update: Chennai, coastal Andhra Pradesh and Puducherry are on high rainfall alert due to the impact of cyclone Ditwah. Schools in Chennai will remain closed today due to heavy rainfall. Meanwhile, the IMD has said central and parts of northwest and peninsular India might experience for a colder winter with below-normal day and night temperatures expected from December to February.

Kerala college joins Indias push for self-reliance in chip production

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: As part of initiatives to achieve self reliance in the semiconductor sector, two application-specific integrated circuit (IC) chips designed by a college in Kerala have been successfully fabricated at the Union governments Semiconductor Laboratory (SCL) in Punjab. The chips, relating to advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) in vehicles, were designed at IHRD Model Engineering College (MEC), Kochi. The fabricated chips were handed over to the MEC project team by Union Minister of Electronics & IT Ashwini Vaishnaw at SCL last week. Even though IC chips are widely designed in India, their fabrication is mostly carried out outside the country. The completion of the entire process from design to fabrication within India is part of efforts at building a self-reliant semiconductor ecosystem in the country. According to IHRD director V A Arun Kumar, the chips were designed by MEC as part of the Chips to Startup project of the central ministry. The college received approval for the five-year-long research project on January 15, 2024, with a grant of `86 lakh. The two fabricated IC chips are designed for object detection and object tracking. They are developed as the initial phase of the ongoing research project on ADAS, explained Jobymol Jacob, chief investigator of the project and head of the electronics engineering department at MEC. Faculty members Jagdeesh Kumar P, Rashid ME, research scholars, project staff and MTech and BTech students of the institution are also part of the project team. According to Jobymol, the project employs AI to assess data collected by cameras, radar and LiDAR (light detection and ranging) to detect and also track moving objects so as to make necessary decisions. Besides MEC, six other institutions in the state are undertaking research under the Chips to Startup programme. It is noteworthy that our team was able to complete the design of the two crucial chips in 16 months and cross the fabrication stage in 22 months, Jobymol said. The development of the first set of chips has come as a shot in the arm for the MEC team, that has plans to design similar units as part of their research project.

Delhi Records Cleanest Air Since 2018, Except During 2020 Lockdown: Centre Tells Parliament

The Centre also informed about 90 per cent reduction in fire incidents in Punjab and Haryana during the paddy harvesting season compared to 2022.

Arms smuggling module unearthed

CHANDIGARH, Dec 1: Punjab Police on Monday said it has unearthed a Pakistan-linked cross-border arms smuggling module with the arrest of two persons. Follow the Daily Excelsior channel on WhatsApp Police also recovered seven weapons from their possession. Acting swiftly on intelligence inputs, Amritsar Commissionerate Police dismantles a #Pakistan-linked cross-border arms smuggling module and apprehends two operatives, recovering seven sophisticated pistols (three PX5 and four .30 bore), Director General of Police Gaurav Yadav said on X. Preliminary investigation revealed [] The post Arms smuggling module unearthed appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Centre rejects Punjabs claim that lapses at Bhakra, Pong dams exacerbated floods

Rs 3,120cr, 2.7L machines drive dramatic drop in farm fires in Punjab, Haryana

Punjab floods declared a national calamity on portal meant for MPs, Rajya Sabha told

Contractual transport workers resume strike, bus services disrupted in Punjab

How exactly is Shivon Zilis Indian?

Shivon Zilis, Elon Musk's AI executive partner, is being celebrated in India due to her Punjabi heritage. While biologically half-Indian, Zilis identifies culturally as Canadian, having grown up and built her career in North America. India's pride stems from her elite global achievement and connection to Musk, highlighting how ancestry bridges cultures.

Contribution of farm fires in Punjab, Haryana to pollution in Delhi-NCR episodic, says Centre

Air pollution in Delhi-NCR caused by local, regional factors, with stubble burning being an additional event, Union Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav tells Lok Sabha; CAQM notes biggest drop in farm fires in Punjab, Haryana since 2018, barring 2020

Over 50% reduction in Punjab, Haryana farm fires: CAQM

Farm fires saw a major drop in 2025. The Commission for Air Quality Management noted a sharp decrease from previous years. Punjab and Haryana reported substantial reductions in crop residue burning. These figures mark the most significant decline since monitoring began. This progress highlights effective management measures.

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Farm Fires In Punjab, Haryana Lowest In 5 years: Air Quality Body

The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) said on Monday that incidents of farm fires in Punjab and Haryana reached their lowest levels during the 2025 paddy harvesting season.

Rajasthan Police Arrest Punjab Man In Rajasthan For Spying For Pak's ISI

In a major breakthrough, the CID Intelligence Wing of the Rajasthan Police has arrested a youth from Punjab in Rajasthan's Sri Ganganagar district for spying on behalf of Pakistan's intelligence agency, the ISI, officials said on Monday.

Between Barbed Wires And Classrooms: Centre Highlights Support For Border-Side Schools

The Union Education Ministry in parliament on Monday outlined the steps being taken to support schooling in Punjab's zero-line border villages.

Over 25 lakh people living with HIV in India, second largest globally: Govt report

NEW DELHI : India has an estimated 25.61 lakh people living with HIV (PLHIV), the second largest number globally in 2024, although the annual HIV incidence rate remains very low in the country, according to a government report released on Monday to mark World AIDS Day. The India HIV Estimation 2025 technical report, released by Union Health Minister JP Nadda, states that in 202425, 73% of newly detected HIV-positive persons reported acquiring the infection through heterosexual transmission. This was followed by injecting drug use, which accounted for 11.5% of reported transmissions. Another 5.4% of cases were attributed to homosexual/bisexual transmission, while 3.5% were due to vertical transmission. The HIV epidemic in India continues to be low, with adult HIV prevalence at 0.20% in 2024. While overall prevalence is low, India has 25.61 lakh people living with HIV (PLHIV), the second largest PLHIV population globally. The annual HIV incidence rate also remains very low at 0.05 per 1,000 uninfected population, the report said. Of the total 25.61 lakh PLHIV, 13.97 lakh are males and 11.64 lakh are females. Maharashtra (3.99 lakh) has the highest PLHIV burden, followed by Andhra Pradesh (3.10 lakh) and Karnataka (2.91 lakh). Uttar Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Telangana, Bihar, Gujarat and Punjab also have estimated PLHIV figures ranging from one lakh to two lakh. Together, these nine states account for 74% of the total PLHIV burden in India, the annual report said. It added that the total PLHIV population in India in 2024 contributed 6.3% to the global HIV burden of 4.08 crore and 37.1% of the 69 lakh cases in the Asia-Pacific region. In 2024, Indias population living with HIV was second only to South Africas 78 lakh, owing to its population size, the report noted. HIV burden in South-East Asia remains substantial; 88,000 newly infected in 2024: WHO In 2024, around 64,470 new HIV infections and 32,160 AIDS-related deaths were estimated nationally, marking declines of 48.69% and 81.42%, respectively, compared to 2010. These reductions far exceeded the global averages of 40% and 54%, the report added. Highlighting Indias sustained progress under the National AIDS and STD Control Programme (NACP), Nadda reaffirmed the governments commitment to a rights-based, stigma-free, and inclusive HIV response. He emphasised that under NACP-V, access to prevention, testing, and treatment services has continued to expand, demonstrating strong and sustained momentum across key programme areas. Nadda said that between 2010 and 2024, new HIV infections declined by 48.7%, AIDS-related deaths by 81.4%, and mother-to-child transmission by 74.6%. Testing coverage increased from 4.13 crore in 202021 to 6.62 crore in 202425, while the number of people on treatment rose from 14.94 lakh to 18.60 lakh. Viral load testing also expanded significantlyfrom 8.90 lakh to 15.98 lakh tests. He noted that these achievements surpass global averages for the same period and reflect strong political commitment, sustained domestic investment, evidence-based programme strategies, and consistent community engagement. The report also found that AIDS-related mortality was highest in Manipur, Mizoram and Nagaland. However, it noted that AIDS-related deaths have declined between 2010 and 2024 in nearly all states and UTs except Chandigarh, Punjab, Arunachal Pradesh and Tripura, where more PLHIV died of AIDS-related causes in 2024 compared to 2010. Globally, annual AIDS-related deaths declined by 54% between 2010 and 2024. The report stated that two statesMizoram and Nagalandhad an HIV prevalence of more than 1%. It also highlighted a noticeable increasing trend in the prevalence of new infections in the northeastern states of Tripura, Arunachal Pradesh, Meghalaya and Assam, as well as in the northern state of Punjab, primarily driven by the rise in new infections. Nationally, annual new cases were estimated to decline by around 48.70% between 2010 and 2024, but increased by more than 400% in Arunachal Pradesh and Tripura. Similarly, in Punjab and Meghalaya, the annual new infections estimated for 2024 have nearly doubled compared to 2010. In 2024, 30 districts were estimated to have an adult HIV prevalence of 1% or more, with 29 of these located in Nagaland (11 districts), Mizoram (10), Manipur (5), Meghalaya (2) and Arunachal Pradesh (1). The only other district in this category is in Karnataka. Are fund cuts reversing the global fight against HIV?

Traffic, not stubble, behind daily pollution spikes in Delhi: Study

The report notes that stubble burning in Punjab and Haryana was significantly subdued this year, partly because floods disrupted the crop cycle

'90% Dip In Punjab, Haryana Farm Fires': Centre Says Delhi's Air Saw Improvement This Year

Delhi's air quality improved in 2025 as Punjab and Haryana saw a 90% drop in fire incidences during paddy harvest season, the Centre replied to a starred question in Lok Sabha.

Deepest salutations, heartfelt gratitude to brave women, men of BSF: Mallikarjun Kharge

The BSF, a central armed police force under the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), celebrates its Raising Day annually on December 1. This date marks the establishment of the first sector of the Punjab Frontier of the BSF, which took place on December 1, 1965, with its headquarters situated in Jalandhar.

MHA turns downs Haryana govts demand for new assembly building in Chandigarh

CHANDIGARH: The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has declined the proposal of the Haryana Government to construct a separate assembly building in Chandigarh. Highly placed sources said that the MHA has advised the senior officials of the Haryana Government not to pursue this matter any further. Sources further said that this kind of land swap might not fall within the purview of the Capital of Punjab (Development and Regulation) Act, 1952, which governs land use in Chandigarh. Earlier this year, the Chandigarh administration had rejected the proposal of the Haryana government to swap land, citing the absence of such a provision in the Chandigarh Master Plan-2031. In 2023, the Chandigarh Administration had agreed in principle to allot a 10-acre plot to the state government for constructing its separate Assembly building. Following this, a prime piece of land was identified near the railway light point The land was near the IT Park in the city, adjacent to a 200-foot-wide road that connects directly to Madhya Marg, which was valued at around Rs 640 crore. In return, the Haryana Government had offered 12 acres of land in the Saketri area of Panchkula to the Chandigarh Administration. However, the administration turned down the proposal for various reasons, including accessibility issues, a natural drain that divides the offered land into two parts, planning constraints, and it being a low-lying area, making it unsuitable for public projects. It was then pointed out that the two pieces of land were not comparable in terms of access and urban planning. According to sources, the main issue with the land in Saketri was the natural drain, which not only bifurcated the plot but also restricted construction in its vicinity. At present, both Punjab and Haryana share the assembly building located in the Capitol Complex, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where new construction is not permitted. The Haryana governments demand for a new assembly building came after anticipation that the 2026 delimitation would increase the number of Assembly constituencies from 90 to 126, and the current state Assembly would not have space for expansion. Recently, the central government made a U-turn on two controversial issues to avoid any confrontation. A few days back, the Union Ministry of Education had withdrawn its notification to restructure the senate and syndicate of Panjab University after sustained political backlash in Punjab and the ongoing protests at the university. The MHA also clarified that no final decision has been taken on a proposal under Article 240, allowing the President to appoint a separate Lieutenant Governor for the Union Territory, which is now administered by the Punjab Governor.

PNB LBO recruitment 2025 application for JMGS-I closes today at pnb.bank.in

PNB LBO 2025: The Punjab National Bank (PNB) LBO recruitment 2025 application for JMGS-I posts closes today at pnb.bank.in. A total of 750 vacancies are available across General, SC, ST, OBC, and EWS categories. Candidates must hold a graduation degree, be between 20-30 years, and pay the applicable application fee. Selection includes a written test, screening, language proficiency, and interview. Interested applicants must complete the online process today to be considered for December 2025/January 2026 exams.

Punjab Vigilance Bureau arrests close aide of jailed Akali leader Bikram Majithia

Harpreet Singh Gulati, who is in the liquor trade, was arrested on Saturday, they said. During the probe, the Bureau detected a transaction of 10 crore between Gulati's companies and firms run by the Majithia family

Weather update: IMD warns of cold conditions in Punjab, Maharashtra; dense fog predictions in Odisha and Manipur. Check full prediction

Weather Update today: Cold wave conditions are likely to grip Punjab and Maharashtra and dense fog conditions are likely to prevail in Odisha, Manipur on December 1, the IMD has said in its latest weather bulletin. Due to the cyclonic storm Ditwah, Tamil Nadu received moderate rainfall today and more showers have been predicted for Andhra Pradesh.

Capt on BJPs chances in Punjab: Have alliance or wait for 2-3 elections

DP busts terror module, nabs 3

NEW DELHI, Nov 30: The Special Cell of Delhi Police has busted a Pakistan-backed terror module led by gangster-turned-terrorist Shahzad Bhatti, currently based in the neighbouring country, an official said on Sunday. Follow the Daily Excelsior channel on WhatsApp Police have arrested three key operatives of the module one each from Punjab, Madhya Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh and seized a semi-automatic pistol, 10 live cartridges, and mobile phones containing incriminating chats and reconnaissance videos from their possession, Additional [] The post DP busts terror module, nabs 3 appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Punjab on a high as farm fires hit a new low, fall 53% over last year

24 Pak drones seized on average every month along Punjab border: BSF

Punjab Roadways staffers call off stir after meeting with transport minister

Punjab used other states buses: Rathore

Delhi police bust terror gangster module linked to Pakistan based handler

Delhi Police busted a terror-gangster module run by Pakistan-based Shehzad Bhatti, allegedly planning to target Lawrence Bishnoi's brother. Three youths, Asif, Hargunpreet Singh, and Vikas Prajapati, were arrested for executing grenade attacks in Punjab. Bhatti lured them with money and remotely coordinated operations, using social media to recruit disposable foot soldiers for public place attacks.

Smuggled To Myanmar In The Night, Says Trafficking Victim

During his return journey, Sharan met several other victims who were trafficked by different agents from Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, Punjab, Kerala and Delhi

After Operation Sindoor, increase in trend of weapon-dropping from Pakistan: BSF IG Punjab Frontier

Border Security Force reports a rise in weapon drops from Pakistan following Operation Sindoor. Drones are increasingly used to smuggle arms and drugs across the Punjab border. BSF troops have recovered hundreds of weapons, large quantities of heroin and methamphetamine, and explosives this year. The force remains vigilant against cross-border threats and internal security duties.

News18 Evening Digest: FIR Vs SIR In Winter Session, Pakistani National Among Others Rescued By IAF In Sri Lanka & Other Stories

We are also covering: India Vs South Africa Live Score, 1st ODI and Shahid Kapoor Reveals First Question He Asked Abhishek Chaubey After Being Offered Udta Punjab.

Delhi Police busts Pakistan-backed terror module linked to Gurdaspur grenade attack; 3 arrested

Delhi Police Special Cell has dismantled a Pakistan-backed terror network. Gangster Shahzad Bhatti, operating from Pakistan, led the module. Three key operatives were apprehended from Punjab, Madhya Pradesh, and Uttar Pradesh. They were involved in a grenade attack in Gurdaspur. The module recruited young Indians via social media, luring them with money and glorification.

SMAT | Abhishek blitzkrieg sets up Punjabs facile victory over Bengal

The opener scores 148 off just 52 balls to help his side cross the 300-run mark; Services gets past Pondicherry; Saurav stars for Gujarat against Haryana

After Op Sindoor, increase in trend of weapon-dropping from Pak: BSF IG Punjab Frontier

CHANDIGARH, Nov 30: The trend of weapon-dropping from Pakistan has increased after Operation Sindoor, a senior officer of the Border Security Force, Punjab Frontier, said on Sunday. He informed that the BSF recovered a large number of arms and ammunition, which were air-dropped through drones coming from the Pakistan side. BSF Inspector General, Punjab Frontier, Atul Fulzele, was addressing the media in Amritsar on the eve of the 61st Raising Day of the Border Security Force. Punjab shares 553 km [] The post After Op Sindoor, increase in trend of weapon-dropping from Pak: BSF IG Punjab Frontier appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Delhi Police busts Pak-backed terror module linked to Gurdaspur grenade attack; 3 arrested

NEW DELHI, Nov 30: The Special Cell of Delhi Police has busted a Pakistan-backed terror module led by gangster-turned-terrorist Shahzad Bhatti, currently based in the neighbouring country, an official said on Sunday. Police have arrested three key operatives of the module one each from Punjab, Madhya Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh and seized a semi-automatic pistol, 10 live cartridges, and mobile phones containing incriminating chats and reconnaissance videos from their possession, Additional Commissioner of Police (Special Cell), Pramod Singh [] The post Delhi Police busts Pak-backed terror module linked to Gurdaspur grenade attack; 3 arrested appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Three guests died in separate incidents at two wedding functions in Punjab and Haryana

CHANDIGARH: A series of violent incidents marred wedding celebrations in Punjab and Haryana. In Ludhiana, Punjab, two wedding guests -- including a woman -- were killed and another injured after a clash between two local groups led to gunfire. In neighbouring Haryana, a professional bodybuilder was allegedly beaten to death after he confronted a group of youths reportedly harassing girls at a wedding venue. Two people were killed, and one was injured as gunshots were fired during a brawl between two local groups at a wedding at Bath Castle resort on Pakhowal Road in Ludhiana on the intervening night of Saturday and Sunday. A man and a woman Vasu Chopra and Neeru Chhabra, both guests at the wedding, died after receiving bullet injuries as both groups fired at least 20-25 rounds at each other. While one group was led by Shubham Motta, the other one was led by Ankur. Both have multiple FIRs registered against them. At the wedding ceremony, they came face to face with each other. Initially, they argued over some issue, which soon escalated into a clash. Some people at the wedding intervened and tried to pacify them, but in vain. Thereafter, they opened indiscriminate fire at each other with the police, saying 20-25 rounds were fired at the wedding venue. A case has been registered under relevant sections of the Bharatiya Nayaya Sanhita and the Arms Act. Ludhiana Police Commissioner Swapan Sharma said two guests, who sustained bullet injuries, were taken to a hospital where they succumbed. He further said six persons have been rounded up, and six to seven more are yet to be held. Meanwhile, in another incident in neighboring Haryana, a 26-year-old professional bodybuilder from Rohtak died of injuries following a brutal assault by around 20 unidentified persons, soon after he objected to a group of youth harassing girls at a wedding venue, leading to an argument. The incident took place in Bhiwani on Friday night, and Rohit Dhankar hailing from Humayunpur village, succumbed to his injuries at Rohtak PGI on Saturday. His family claimed that Dhankar was brutally thrashed near a railway crossing in Bhiwani for objecting to the harassment of women at a wedding. Rohit a bodybuilder who had won several bodybuilding events had accompanied his friend Jatin to the wedding when an argument with some members of the marriage party escalated into a violent clash. After the wedding ceremony, Rohit and his friend Jatin left in the car for home. But they were stopped by a group of men who attacked them. His family members claimed that about 20 armed individuals surrounded the two with sticks and weapons and attacked them. Both of them tried to run, Jatin escaped, but Rohit was caught and was thrashed. A police official said that a murder case has registered and he police is looking to nab the accused. All the accused are absconding. Police teams are trying to identify and arrest them. The scuffle over taking a selfie during the function had led to a heated exchange between Rohit and some other youths, he said.