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Nirav Modis prison move creates complications for Bank of India trial in UK
LONDON, Dec 5 : Fugitive diamond merchant Nirav Modi, wanted in India to face fraud and money laundering charges, is forced to share a small prison cell with a shared desk with other inmates without access to most of his legal paperwork, the High Court in London was told on Friday. Follow the Daily Excelsior channel on WhatsApp The 54-year-old accused in the estimated USD 2 billion Punjab National Bank (PNB) loan scam was shifted from HMP Thameside in south [] The post Nirav Modis prison move creates complications for Bank of India trial in UK appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
NEW DELHI: Agitated passengers thronged IndiGo counters across the three terminals of Delhi's Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGIA) on Friday after the airline announced the cancellation of all its 235 domestic flights from the city. The airline, with a 64.1 percent market share, cancelled over 1,000 flights across the country on Friday leading to chaos at airports nationwide. By afternoon, the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF), which takes care of airport security, denied entry inside the terminals to any passenger holding an IndiGo flight ticket. The CISF has brought in its entire platoon of reserve personnel to manage the situation. Leaves of all CISF cops have also been cancelled, said a source. Many were spotted near the staff to offer them security. The airline has been asked to open more counters and deploy more manpower across the airports to tend to passenger queries, he added. Additional police staff from the IGIA police station were also brought to the terminals to keep everything under control, said a police source. While Terminal 1 operates roughly 150 flights, T2 operates 50 and T3 the rest. The cancellation was abruptly announced for a 24-hour period from 12 midnight until 11.59 pm on Friday despite IndiGo announcing a day earlier that it would curtail flight operations from December 8. The worst affected were transit passengers who had reached Delhi on their way to other cities but were stuck inside the terminal. Airfares surge tenfold on certain routes as IndiGo cancels 1,000 flights on Friday Jahangir Sheikh and 14 others, natives of West Bengal who are employed in Jeddah, Abu Dhabi and Dubai, reached here on Thursday afternoon and were still at the airport until late Friday evening pleading for a flight with IndiGo staff. We get a long leave to visit our families once every two years. Two days have been spent at the airport now and IndiGo says they will be able to help us only on December 8, Sheikh told this reporter. Imagine sitting in an airport building instead of being with your family. No one in IndiGo is helping us here, he charged. A 22-strong group comprising a few parents, teachers and 12 boys who were on the way from Punjab to Vishakapatnam to take part in a national tournament were stuck at the airport for nearly 12 hours on Friday. Teacher Nidhi Nandwana said, We had to be at Vishakapatnam for the five-day hockey tournament starting today. We reached Delhi at 7 am and learnt all flights have been cancelled today. The boys are very upset as they are the best in Punjab and selected across schools. We have pleaded with the organizers to give us time till tomorrow to reach. But staff are saying no alternative flights can be arranged today or tomorrow. Passengers are upset and angry. They are raising slogans against the airline in frustration, an airport official said. A large number of passengers were also desperately crowding counters of Air India, Air India Express and SpiceJet to see if they could get tickets there. Passengers from arriving flights were stuck too as they could not get their baggage. The baggage of hundreds is stuck and they want to collect them before leaving, the official said. Even the baggage from cancelled flights checked in already needs to be retrieved, he added. Centre orders high-level probe into IndiGo flight chaos, expects restoration of all services in three days
Surprise twist! This IPL team tops Google searches, leaving RCB, CSK and MI behind
Punjab Kings achieved a significant global milestone, ranking fourth on Google's Top 5 Most Searched Sports Teams of 2025. This recognition follows their impressive IPL 2025 final run, highlighting their growing international fanbase and strong digital presence. The franchise emphasized the emotional connection with supporters as a key factor in this achievement.
Central Govt makes U-turn, cancels Gang Canal anniversary celebration fearing backlash in Punjab
CHANDIGARH: With Punjab Assembly elections just 14 months away and fearing political backlash, the BJP-led Union Government made a U-turn by cancelling the celebration of the 100th anniversary of the Gang Canal, which had been scheduled for today at Hussainiwala in Ferozepur. The canal carries water from Punjab to parts of Rajasthan, and the event was considered politically sensitive. This marks the fourth reversal in a little over a month by the Centre in order to avoid further controversy. Sources said Union Minister of Law and Justice Arjun Ram Meghwal, the Member of Parliament from Bikaner, had landed at Amritsar International Airport on Thursday evening en route to Ferozepur. However, he did not leave the terminal and instead boarded a return flight after reportedly being asked to return. According to sources, the decision was taken because holding the event risked unrest, with farmers and political parties preparing protests against the celebrations. Senior Punjab BJP leaders had also alerted the central leadership that proceeding with the event could turn sour for the party in the state. Already the intelligence agencies had warned that Meghwals visit might lead to protests once news of the function became public late yesterday, said an official. Punjab BJP leader Rana Gurmit Singh Sodhi, formerly with the Congress, had been organising the event at Hussainiwala in Ferozepur district, where the canal originates. For many Punjabis, the mention of the Gang Canal reopens a century-old wound. Sources said top state leaders of the saffron party had instructed the central leadership that the state unit should not be associated with the event. The party has nothing to do with this program, as the interests of the state are paramount, it was an individual event organised by Rana Sodhi. We told the central leadership how this can backfire for the party in the state, and thus the minister was then accordingly instructed by the centre to return. We are grateful that the centre understood the sensitivity of the issue well in time, as the Gang Canal is a contentious issue in Punjab due to water sharing concern, said a senior party leader on condition of anonymity. Despite repeated attempts, Rana Sodhi was not available for comment. Senior Congress leader and Leader of the Opposition Partap Singh Bajwa had already condemned the BJP for its insensitive and politically provocative decision to celebrate the centenary of the Gang Canal from Punjab's soil. The BJP has once again demonstrated its disconnect from Punjab's history and the emotions of its people, he said. Bajwa reminded that the Gang Canal was constructed by the British in the early 20th century, primarily to appease the Maharaja of Bikaner, whose loyalty to the British Crown was rewarded through generous allocations of Punjab's river waters. To organise a celebratory event on Punjab's land is nothing short of reopening these painful wounds, he said. Punjab Congress President Amarinder Singh Raja Warring said, Punjabs water crisis cannot be papered over with staged events and speeches. The BJP is glorifying a canal that historically drained Punjabs waters, while our fields remain parched. We are not against acknowledging history, but against hypocrisy. First, safeguard Punjabs water rights, fix the canal system, stop water theft, and ensure clean water for every farmer only then celebrate. The Gang Canal project, inaugurated on December 5, 1925 and named after Maharaja Ganga Singh of Bikaner, was built to address famine and irrigation issues in the Bikaner region. Stretching 1,398 kilometers including distributaries, the canal runs along the northeastern Indo-Pak border and remains a vital water source for both regions. This is not the first reversal by the Union Government in the recent past. Earlier, it withdrew the notification regarding the Panjab University senate and syndicate polls, clarified that no final decision had been taken on the proposed bill to include Chandigarh under Article 240 (which would allow the President to appoint a separate Lieutenant Governor for the Union Territory), and rejected the Haryana governments proposal to construct a separate Assembly building in Chandigarh.
Punjab CM Bhagwant Mann holds roadshow in Osaka to attract Japanese investment
Railway tracks blocked in Punjab as farmers push back against Electricity Amendment Bill, 2025
Farmers under the banner Kisan Mazdoor Morcha staged a symbolic rail roko agitation and accused the Centre of ignoring their grievances. They also threatened to elevate the issue by removing the smart meters on December 10 if the demands remain unmet
CHANDIGARH: Member of Parliament from Chandigarh, Manish Tewari, on Friday introduced a private members bill in the Lok Sabha proposing to extend the tenure of the Mayor, Senior Deputy Mayor and Deputy Mayor of the Chandigarh Municipal Corporation from the current one year to five years. The bill seeks amendments to the Punjab Municipal Corporation Law (Extension to Chandigarh) Act and related provisions to bring the tenure of the three top municipal posts at par with the five-year term of the Municipal Corporation itself. The primary aim of the bill is to provide administrative stability, strengthen urban governance and ensure long-term planning for Chandigarh. At present, the Mayor, Senior Deputy Mayor and Deputy Mayor serve only a 12-month term, resulting in an annual change in leadership. This disrupts major development projects, causes discontinuity, frequently shifts administrative direction and, due to political instability and yearly contestation, hampers governance. The proposed five-year tenure aligns Chandigarh with governance models of several major Indian municipal corporations and international urban local bodies. LIVE | Winter Session Day 5: Lok Sabha passes pan masala cess bill; TMC raises Bengali deportation row While introducing the bill, Tewari argued that Chandigarh is a modern, fast-growing urban centre where key projects, particularly in infrastructure, waste management, choe rejuvenation, mobility, housing reforms and environmental restoration, require multi-year continuity. He noted, A one-year mayoral term is far too short for a city of Chandigarhs scale. The annual leadership change disrupts execution and accountability. A five-year term will provide the stability needed to implement long-term development strategies. The key provisions of the private members bill proposed by Tewari include a five-year tenure for the Mayor, Senior Deputy Mayor and Deputy Mayor, with all three positions holding office for the full duration of the Municipal Corporations five-year term. It also proposes amendments to related and incidental provisions, seeking alignment of election procedures, rules for vacancy, removal and no-confidence motions, administrative powers attached to the posts, and continuity of ongoing projects and policy frameworks under the proposed five-year structure. If enacted, the bill would trigger a structural transformation in Chandigarhs municipal governance. It would eliminate yearly mayoral elections and associated political friction, strengthen long-term urban planning, bring continuity to major civic initiatives like choe rejuvenation, mobility plans, smart city projects, housing reforms and sewerage upgrades, enhance accountability by allowing one leadership team to see projects through from conception to completion, said Tewari Urban governance experts see this as potentially one of the most significant reforms in the history of the Chandigarh Municipal Corporation, he added . As a private members bill, it will require government backing, support across party lines in Parliament and a possible examination by a Parliamentary Standing Committee.
Preity Zinta's PBKS hit by shock twist ahead of IPL 2026 auction as key player makes THIS decision
Preity Zinta's Punjab Kings face an unexpected setback ahead of the IPL 2026 auction as a key player makes a shocking decision that could impact the team's strategy. The sudden twist has forced PBKS management to reassess their plans as they prepare for a crucial rebuild in the upcoming season.
Explained: From Nehru to Modi, Why Chandigarh Remains a Wound for Punjab
Modi government may have aborted its moves in Chandigarh, but it ended up reopening old wounds in Punjab.
Punjab Congress leader Warring accuses AAP government of patronising gangsters to win elections
CHANDIGARH: Punjab Congress president Amarinder Singh Raja Warring warned the AAP government over promoting anarchy and bloodshed by patronising gangsters to win elections. He also accused AAP of following a strategy of manipulation and coercion, citing former Delhi deputy chief minister Manish Sisodias saam, daam, dand, bhed approach. Warring warned that AAP turned police officers into `yesmen. We will neither forget nor forgive, he made it categorically clear to all such officers. He said AAPs reluctance to hold Zila Parishad and Block Samiti elections showed that they feared defeat. Notably, Congress candidates faced intimidation and obstacles in filing nominations, sparking fears that their papers might be rejected during scrutiny due to AAPs grip on the election machinery. He said that the ruling party was scared and panic-stricken of losing the elections as it had already realised that the ground had slipped from beneath its feet. He added that it was only after the intervention of the court that the government was forced to hold the elections. He gave graphic details from across the state about how the Congress candidates for the Zila Parishad and Block Samiti elections were intimidated and prevented from filing their nomination papers. He expressed strong apprehensions that the nomination papers of even those who have somehow managed to file might get rejected at the time of scrutiny, as the ruling party has completely hijacked the election machinery. Replying to a question on the purported audio clip whereby the SSP Patiala is allegedly issuing directions to his subordinates as to how to prevent Opposition candidates from reaching the venue of filing nomination papers, Warring said, the matter must be investigated. He said, if found true, such officers must be dismissed from the services. Most of the SSPs, the DSPs heading police subdivisions and the SHOs and those heading police posts have completely surrendered themselves to the AAP and turned into its errand boys, he said in a scathing attack against the police partiality. Warring asserted that all such officers will be held accountable under the law once the government changes. He said, if a few police officials believe that they will get away in the next regime by doing the same thing for the party in power, then they are mistaken. This must end, and we will end it, he asserted. He denied that Congress patronised gangsters, challenging AAP to explain their own record. Warring highlighted that AAP is bringing gangster Jaggu Bhagwanpuria from the Assam jail for Tarn Tarans byelection.
Current situation risks rendering ongoing operations untenable: ISL clubs to AIFF
The 12 ISL clubs are FC Goa, Sporting Club Delhi, NorthEast United FC, Jamshedpur FC, Bengaluru FC, Mohun Bagan Super Giant, Chennauyin FC, Mumbai City FC, Kerala Blasters, Punjab FC, Odisha FC and Mohammedan Sporting.
TSPLs circular biofuel ecosystem in Punjab helps reduce stubble burning
The States Mansa region has recorded a 87 per cent decline in stubble burning incidents during the harvest season
Northern India shivers as temperatures plunge; Delhi chokes under very poor air
North India continued to reel under sharp winter conditions on Friday, with large parts of Rajasthan, Punjab and Haryana recording minimum temperatures well below normal, even as Kashmir saw a brief improvement in the cold due to overcast skies. Delhi, meanwhile, remained choked under very poor air quality as a cold wave was forecast for the day. Rajasthan recorded the lowest temperature in the region, with Fatehpur in Sikar district plunging to 1.9C on Friday morning. The Jaipur Meteorological Centre said minimum temperatures stayed below 10 degrees Celsius across several districts, including Sikar at 3C, Nagaur at 3.1C, Lunkaransar at 3.2C, Churu at 4.5C and Pilani at 4.8C. Dry conditions are likely to persist over most parts of the state for the next week, it added. Bone-chilling cold also gripped Punjab and Haryana. Faridkot, at 3C, was the coldest among the two states. In Punjab, Bathinda recorded 3.2C, while Amritsar, Ludhiana, Patiala, Gurdaspur and Ferozepur reported lows between 5.5C and 6.2C. In neighbouring Haryana, Narnaul was the coldest at 3.5C, while Hisar recorded 3.7C. Karnal, Rohtak, Bhiwani and Sirsa registered temperatures ranging between 5.4C and 7.7C. Chandigarh, the shared capital, reported a minimum of 6.1C. Kashmir, however, witnessed an improvement in night temperatures as cloud cover pushed the mercury above those recorded in recent days. Srinagar, which had plunged to 4C the previous night, recorded a low of 0.4Cover four degrees higher. Qazigund reported 0.2C, Kupwara 0.2C, Kokernag 0.8C, Pahalgam 1.8C and Gulmarg 0C. Konibal in Pulwama district remained the coldest in the Union Territory at 3C. The weather office said light snowfall is possible in the higher reaches later on Friday, while another brief spell is likely on December 8. In Delhi, there was no respite from toxic air as the Air Quality Index stood at 323 at 9 am, firmly in the very poor category. Bawana recorded the highest AQI in the city at 373, while 30 monitoring stations reported very poor levels. The capital saw fluctuating pollution levels through the week, with the AQI rising from 279 on Sunday to 372 on Tuesday before settling at 304 on Thursday. The IMD said a cold wave is expected through the day, with the minimum temperature dipping to 5.6C, nearly four degrees below normal. The maximum temperature is likely to hover around 22C, while relative humidity touched 100% in the morning. (With inputs from PTI)
PSSSB Group D recruitment 2025: Registration begins at sssb.punjab.gov.in, check how to apply here
The Punjab Subordinate Services Selection Board is recruiting for 331 Group-D positions. Applications are open from November 21 to December 15, 2025. Candidates need Matriculation and Punjabi at Class 10. Selection involves a written test and document verification. The pay scale is fixed at 18,00056,900. Visit sssb.punjab.gov.in to apply online.
Amritpal challenges 3rd detention order in HC, says Punjab govt claims speculative, lack evidence
Shehnaaz says shes been used as a prop in films
Shehnaaz Gill, the beloved Punjabi star who rose to national fame with Bigg Boss 13, recently appeared on Bigg Boss 19 to welcome her brother Shehbaz as a wildcard and to promote her film Ikk Kudi. During a conversation with Salman Khan, she made a striking statement, Mere upar koi paise nahi laga raha, toh maine khud par laga diye. Now, in a new interview, Shehnaaz has revealed the real reason behind those words.
Punjab & Haryana HC initiative to help Burail jail inmates get new skills
AAP alleges vote theft, but is now stealing an entire election: Punjab BJP president Sunil Jakhar
Raise issue of Punjabi youth misled into joining Russian army: Congress MLA Pargat Singh
High court refuses interim relief to suspended Punjab DIG arrested in corruption case
Watch: Despite new bans and committees, why is Delhis air is still toxic?
Delhi is choking once again but this time, stubble burning isnt to blame. In this explainer, we break down why air pollution remains dangerously high despite a 90% drop in farm fires across Punjab and Haryana.
Indian football: East Bengal beat Punjab FC 3-1, enter AIFF Super Cup final
East Bengal secured a 3-1 victory over Punjab FC in the AIFF Super Cup semifinals, advancing to their third final. Mohamad Bashim Rashid opened the scoring, followed by goals from Kevin Sibille and captain Saul Crespo, with Daniel Ramirez netting Punjab's lone penalty.
Japanese steel giant Aichi Steel to expand in Punjab
CHANDIGARH: A major political storm has erupted in Punjab ahead of the upcoming Zila Parishad and Block Samiti elections as the Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD), Congress and Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) alleged that Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) workers stopped their candidates from filing nominations for the upcoming polls on the last day before the deadline ended. Alleging abuse of power by the ruling AAP government, Punjab Congress President Amarinder Singh Raja Warring said, This shows that the AAP has lost ground and has seen the writing on the wall. That is why it's resorting to such desperate attempts to misuse police and official machinery. He said if the government was confident about its performance, why did it need to use such tactics. This only reveals the sense of panic, desperation and frustration as the government has realized its support was eroding, he added. Earlier, during an informal interaction with reporters, Warring said the abuse of police and government machinery is a hallmark of the AAP government in Punjab. He said what was purportedly being discussed by police in an audio clip that went viral was already happening all over Punjab and being recorded by the public. He alleged that a Congress leader, whose wife was scheduled to file nomination papers, was picked up by the area SHO illegally detained for the entire night. Meanwhile, the SAD filed a petition in the Punjab and Haryana high court on Thursday to register a FIR against Patiala SSP Varun Sharma as well as order his immediate suspension pending a CBI probe into the audio clip released earlier by party president Sukhbir Singh Badal. In the clip, the SSP is purportedly heard directing the district police force in a conference call to prevent opposition candidates, particularly those from the SAD, from reaching the office of the Returning Officer to file their nomination papers. Badal alleged that similar directions had been issued to the police force across the state at the instance of the Aam Aadmi Party government and demanded the intervention of the Election Commission besides approaching the high court. The court has issued a notice to the state government as well as the State Election Commission for Monday. The petition, filed as a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) by former legislator Dr Daljit Singh Cheema, sought urgent judicial safeguards to ensure the conduct of free and fair elections to the Block Samitis and Zila Parishads in the state. The petition called for deployment of the Central Armed Police Forces (CRPF) or independent observers until the completion of the elections and counting process in Patiala district. Following the circulation of the purported audio clip, the Patiala Police issued a strong clarification, stating that it is fake and AI-generated. In an official statement, the police said the clip was created with malicious intent to mislead the public, spread disinformation, and disturb law and order during the election period. Appropriate and stringent legal action will be taken against the culprits, it said. Urging citizens not to fall for doctored or fabricated content, the Patiala Police reaffirmed that they remain fully committed to ensuring free and fair elections. Meanwhile, BJP Punjab General Secretary Anil Sareen alleged that the AAP government in Punjab, fearing defeat in the upcoming Zila Parishad and Block Samiti elections, is utilizing the police machinery and civil officers, much like its party workers. Pressure is being created on opposition candidates to stop them from filing nomination papers. Not only this, in several constituencies, the police have been conducting raids on candidates houses, locking their gates, picking up family members, tearing their documents, and blocking roads to obstruct their movement, he said. Sareen said, The police are no longer upholding the law. They are functioning like the AAPs B-team. He also showed a purported audio clip in which the police were seen picking up Vikas Pandey, husband of BJP candidate Priyanka Pandey, from Jandali in Patiala district, at around 5 a.m., and incidents of tearing the nomination papers of candidates in Rajpura and Ghanaur. Alleging that the AAP government is indulging in dirty politics, Sareen claimed that a systematic plan is being executed to prevent opposition candidates from filing their nomination papers.
Shehnaaz Gill shares she was being used as a `prop` in Bollywood films
Shehnaaz Gill revealed she turned producer because Bollywood wasnt offering her meaningful or impactful roles, saying she was often used as a prop with repetitive, uninspiring scripts. She waited years for strong Punjabi projects instead of accepting anything for visibility
Centre says 2.90 lakh beneficiaries deleted under National Food Security Act in Punjab
CHANDIGARH: The Union Government has stated that under the National Food Security Act (NFSA), 23.79 lakh cases were flagged in Punjab. Over 2.90 lakh beneficiaries have been deleted, and the verification of 20.69 lakh has not been completed. Earlier, Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann had alleged that the centre had deleted 8 lakh beneficiaries, and he would not allow any beneficiary to be removed. In reply to a question asked by Punjab Congress president and Member of Parliament from Ludhiana, Amrinder Singh Raja Warring, Union Minister of State for the Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution, Nimuben Jayantibhai Bambhaniya stated that there are 40,93,003 ration cards as of date and 1,51,67,073 beneficiaries under the NFSA in Punjab. Of these, e-KYC of 20,69,338 beneficiaries was not completed. While 23,79,400 cases were flagged and 2,90,940 beneficiaries were removed after field verification and due process. Sharing the number of ration cards, it also stated that 40,93,003 are as of date in 2025, while last year the number of ration cards was 41,76,455 and in 2023 the figure stood at 37,87, 561 and in 2022 the number was 40,67,879. In response to a query regarding whether the Union government issued repeated reminders and deadlines to the Punjab government to complete Aadhaar-based e-KYC and beneficiary verification under the National Food Security Act, The department of food and public distribution has issued multiple communications to all state governments, including the government of Punjab, urging the timely completion of Aadhaar based e-KYC and beneficiary verification under NFS A. These include repeated reminders, DO letters, and reviews through video conferences. Various communications by this department were sent to states, followed by several review meetings via video conference, advising the state to take immediate corrective action on the large number of flagged cases reflected in the Rightful Targeting Dashboard and to expedite eKYC completion. While identification of eligible households under Antyodaya Anna Yojana (AAY) and Priority Households (PHH) is the statutory responsibility of the State Governments under the NFSA, the Union Government supports States through regular monitoring and technological interventions to ensure rightful targeting, stated the reply. Regarding steps taken by the government to ensure that eligible poor families in Punjab do not lose access to subsidised food grains, the reply noted that while identification of eligible households under Antyodaya Anna Yojana and Priority Households is the statutory responsibility of state governments under NFSA, the union government supports states through regular monitoring and technological interventions to ensure rightful targeting. Key initiatives include the development and provision of the Rightful Targeting dashboard, which analytically highlights flagged beneficiaries to enable states to verify these cases on the ground and sanitise their databases, regular advisories, correspondences. Review meetings with the government of Punjab to ensure timely e-KYC completion and verification, and the removal or retention of flagged cases under the Rightful Targeting dashboard after field verification by the state government so that genuine beneficiaries are not deleted. In August this year, CM Mann had said, As long as I am the CM of Punjab, no beneficiary will be deleted. The Centre allegedly asked the Punjab Government to delete 8,02,493 ration cards under the Public Distribution System (PDS), claiming they did not fulfil the eligibility criteria. This means that 32 lakh beneficiaries of Punjab will be deprived of subsidised wheat. Of the 1.53 crore beneficiaries, the state government has verified 1.29 crore beneficiaries according to the original checklist, he said. Mann added that he has requested a six-month extension from the Centre and intends to raise the issue at the highest levels of the Union Government.
Punjab has maximum cases of human trafficking: Jaishankar in Rajya Sabha
External Affairs Minister Jaishankar said the Punjab Government has constituted an SIT and a fact-finding committee to look into cases of human trafficking
18,822 Indian nationals deported by US since 2009, says Jaishankar in Rajya Sabha
The US has deported 18,822 Indian nationals since 2009, with 3,258 in early 2025. External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar informed the Rajya Sabha that states and the NIA are investigating human trafficking, with Punjab reporting the most cases. The MEA is engaged with US authorities regarding deportee treatment.
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.
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.
Punjab ignores 1989 order to absorb worker, draws HC fire
Punjab govt to establish advanced horti centre at Ladhowal
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.
Rajya Sabha MP Swati Maliwal criticized the Punjab government's drug de-addiction efforts, highlighting Enforcement Directorate findings of de-addiction centers supplying drugs. She questioned the central government's role in ensuring funds are used for their intended purpose, a concern acknowledged by the minister.
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 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
Punjab CM in Japan to boost investment
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.
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.
Punjab leads with 156% groundwater extraction: Report
60% cotton brought to Punjab mandis sold below support price: Data
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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
BSF rolls out advanced AI-based anti-tunnelling, anti-drone systems along Indo-Pak border
CHANDIGARH: The Border Security Force (BSF) is installing artificial intelligence-based anti-tunnelling technology in the Jammu sector to curb infiltration from across the border. In the coming days, an advanced surveillance system will be deployed in both Punjab and Jammu sectors along the IndoPak international border, incorporating night-vision and optical cameras and a mix of radars to enhance observation. The BSF will also receive technical alerts if anyone attempts to intrude into Indian territory, and a new border fence is being installed that cannot be cut or climbed. This year, 278 drones carrying consignments of drugs, weapons and ammunition have been intercepted and recovered, besides 200 weapons seized including AKs and pistols 53 intruders apprehended or arrested, and 380 kg of heroin recovered along the 533-km Punjab stretch of the international border. A new trend has emerged, where small Chinese-made drones are being sent from Pakistan carrying only around 500 grams of payload and small weapons; earlier, larger drones with heavier payloads were used. Speaking to the media during the Diamond Jubilee celebrations of the BSF at the Lakhnaur Campus in Mohali, Satish S Khandare, Additional Director General of BSF (Western Command), said, Now days new technologies are being used for anti-national activities be it smuggling or dropping of arms and ammunition as drones are being used on large scale in Punjab and now in certain areas of Rajasthan. So it is another challenge we are facing in our day to day duty. Thus now various technologies are being used by the BSF to counter smuggling from across the border. Now days we are deploying anti-drone system on the Indo-Pak border on a massive scale especially in Jammu and Punjab sectors to prevent drone infiltration as drugs and weapons are smuggled via these flying machines, he said. He also added that, We are also in a process of implementing a major technological solution on Jammu and Punjab border which will comprise off all the available solutions as it will be collective mix of all technologies which will have tunnel detection system also to prevent attempt on our adversaries part to infiltrate through tunnels. Thus we are implementing anti-tunneling system in Jammu which will have AI based night cameras so that the movement during the night is observed and appropriate reaction is given by the troops, also include electro optical targeting system (EOTS) which is combination of cameras and radar as radars detects the movement and subsequently camera focuses on that movement and analysis is made weather that movement is friendly or not friendly. Based on that action is taken by the troopers which are there at the border out post. The phase one of the anti-tunneling technology completed now phase two and three will be completed soon. Khandare said two additional battalions have been deployed to strengthen the anti-infiltration grid in Jammu. All revierrine gaps are plugged using available resources and creating command posts and well lit environment in those areas and psoting adequate number of troops, he said. For border surveillance, we are going to install an advance system in Punjab and Jammu sectors in coming days in which will include a mix night and optical cameras besides radar systems in order to enhance our observations on the border and if one tries to intrude or dig tunnel we get technical warning, he added. On the extent of flood-related damage to fencing along the IndoPak border, Khandare said, It was not contiguous but approximately one third of the total fence in Punjab on the Indo-Pak international border was broken that was around 60 kilometres. In some places it was not possible to go to the border due to water logging. In this situation with so many gaps and little manpower at our disposal it is quite possible that anti national elements might have exploited certain gaps but we were quick to regain our grounds and lift the fence and go to the border. In Jammu region not that much of breach as nallas was seasons. As far fencing is concerned the damage was not much in Jammu, he added. He said the ageing fence along the IndoPak border is being replaced. The fence which was erected on the Indo-Pak border has become quiet old so we are replacing to old fence with new design fence all along the indo-pak intentional border, he said. A state-of-the-art drone forensics laboratory has been set up in Amritsar. The drones which we recover their forensic analysis is that at this laboratory now, from where the drone flew, how many sorties it has done and where did it drop the consignments and on that basis we have identified the hot stops, primarily in Punjab a few in Rajasthan also. Thus, we tackle those hot stops by two means firstly by deploying counter drone systems and secondly physical deployment. We are also manning in depth of the state as we know that the consignment will be dropped beyond the border. The anti-drone system of Punjab Police is being operated in coordination with BSF, he said. Khandare said the BSF utilises a multilayered approach involving a mix of indigenous technologies to counter cross-border drone threats along the IndoPak border. The systems integrate multiple sensors including radar, electro-optical infrared cameras and radio frequency analyzers to detect, track and neutralize the Pak drones. During the year till date we have recovered 278 rogue drones, besides 200 weapons seized including AKs and pistols, 53 intruders apprehended and arrested and 380 kg of heroin recovered, he said. He concluded, We are noticing that in the last five years there has been change in drone intrusions as it started in 2019, if we analyze that now smaller and cheap drones being used, also size of consignments is now small. First big drones use to come and they had sound signature. From adversaries point of view they are using smaller drones as per sortie a drone carries 500 grams of drugs and a pistol. Also big drones are also coming but they fly at much higher level now frequency hopping drones are being used thus is a difficult task to detect them.
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
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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 .
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.
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.
Maxwell Pulls Out Of IPL 2026 Ahead Of Mini-auction
Indian Premier League: Australia all-rounder Glenn Maxwell has opted out of the 19th edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL) just a couple of weeks before the auction, stating that he made the decision with a lot of gratitude towards the league. Maxwell was released by the Punjab Kings and the cricketer was supposed to go under the hammer at the auction on December 16. However, he has now decided not to play the cash-rich event in India. After many unforgettable seasons in the IPL, Ive decided not to put my name into the auction this year. Its a big call, and one I make with a lot of gratitude for everything this league has given me, Maxwell wrote in a statement he put out on his Instagram. The IPL has helped shape me as a cricketer and as a person. Ive been lucky to play with world-class teammates, represent incredible franchises, and perform in front of fans whose passion is unmatched. The memories, the challenges, and the energy of India will stay with me forever. Thank you for all your support over the years, hopefully see you soon. Cheers Maxi, he added. Maxwell last represented PBKS in the 2025 edition and played under Shreyas Iyer's leadership, with his fellow Australian Ricky Ponting as head coach. He sustained a finger injury midway through the tournament, which eventually ruled him out of the season. The IPL has helped shape me as a cricketer and as a person. Ive been lucky to play with world-class teammates, represent incredible franchises, and perform in front of fans whose passion is unmatched. The memories, the challenges, and the energy of India will stay with me forever. Thank you for all your support over the years, hopefully see you soon. Cheers Maxi, he added. Also Read: Live Cricket Score While Russell retired from IPL and joined Kolkata Knight Riders coaching staff for the upcoming edition, Faf has opted to participate in the Pakistan Super League and take a break from IPL this season. Article Source: IANS
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
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 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.
Amritpals Parl speech could set five rivers on fire, Punjab tells HC
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.
Punjab min Harpal Singh Cheema asks HP to take responsibility for failure to curb drug menace
Idle idols: 2 Punjab youth beat phone fads in 31-hr challenge
BJP has no future in Punjab, with or without Akalis: Warring
