Punjab, Haryana clash over water, Himachal watches from sidelines
A water-sharing conflict intensifies between Punjab and Haryana over the Bhakra-Nangal dam, as Punjab refuses to increase Haryana's water quota, leading to accusations of withholding essential drinking water. The Bhakra Beas Management Board sided with Haryana, escalating the dispute. With Punjab refusing to release more water, Haryana prepares to approach the Supreme Court, highlighting growing inter-state competition for resources.
Water dispute makes oppn rally behind Haryana CM: Mann restorting to unconstitutional moves
Punjab overdrawing water: Saini; AAP accuses Haryana CM of manipulating data
Water dispute: Haryana spreading false claims, say Pb ministers
Inadequate canal supply, tubewells dry: Water crisis worsens in Haryana
Citing seven-day notice rule, Punjab boycotts BBMB meeting over water-sharing row with Haryana
CHANDIGARH: A day after the BJP-led Union Government advised the AAP-led Punjab Government to implement the Bhakra Beas Management Boards (BBMB) order to release an additional 4,500 cusecs of water from the Bhakra Dam to Haryana over the next eight days to meet the urgent water needs of the state, Punjab did not participate in the BBMB meeting held today. Instead, it sent a letter requesting that the meeting be postponed. Sources said that in the letter to the BBMB chairman, the state government stated that a special session of the Punjab Assembly has been convened on Monday (May 5), during which the BBMB's decision to allocate 4,500 cusecs of additional water to Haryana would be discussed. As such, it could not participate in the meeting. The officials of the state government are currently preoccupied with preparations for the assembly session. The Water Resources Department further stated that a seven-day notice is mandatory before convening a BBMB meeting, as per Section 7 of the 1976 Regulations, and demanded adherence to proper procedures. It is respectfully requested that the meeting may kindly be adjourned. The Punjab government has called a special session of the Punjab Vidhan Sabha on May 5 amid the water-sharing dispute with Haryana, the letter read. Not a drop of excess water from Bhakra dam: Punjab parties unite to block release to Haryana The state government also pointed out that, as per BBMB regulations, a notice of no less than seven days is required for holding a special meeting. Subsequently, another notice was issued on April 29 for the April 30 meeting. In both cases, the provisions of Regulation 3 of the 1976 Regulations were not followed. Under the circumstances, the decisions taken in both meetings are therefore not in accordance with the law. It is requested that the meeting proposed on May 3 be adjourned, the letter added. Meanwhile, in a meeting held yesterday in Delhi and headed by Union Home Secretary Govind Mohan, the Punjab Government was advised to release the water. Punjab Water Resources and Soil and Water Conservation Minister Barinder Kumar Goyal said that the Punjab Government boycotted the BBMB meeting. Terming the meeting completely unconstitutional and illegal, Goyal said that proper protocols had been violated in the scheduling of the 255th Special Meeting. Under Regulation 3 of the 1976 Regulations, a seven-day notice is mandatory before scheduling a BBMB meeting, he said. Goyal pointed out that the recent BBMB meetings held on April 28 and April 30 were also convened without adhering to the mandatory notice period. Notices for these meetings were issued merely a day before the scheduled dateson April 27 and April 29, respectivelyrendering any decisions taken during these meetings legally questionable. The BBMB regulates water distribution from the Bhakra, Pong, and Ranjit Sagar dams. Punjab, Haryana, and Rajasthan are the partner states that meet their requirements for various purposes, including irrigation, from the Bhakra and Pong dams. The board decides the annual quota of water supply to the three partner statesPunjab, Haryana, and Rajasthanfor a yearly cycle from May 21 to May 21 each year. 'Illegal, inhuman': All-party meet in Haryana asks Punjab government to release water unconditionally
Punjab-Haryana water row: Plea before HC seeks Punjab police exit from Bhakra headworks
Idolise sportspersons, not singers whose songs promote drugs: Punjab CM Mann to youngsters
Chandigarh, May 3: Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann on Saturday urged youngsters to idolise sportspersons such as Milkha Singh instead of singers who promote drugs through their songs. The senior AAP leader was addressing a gathering during the Walk for Drug Free Chandigarh an anti-drugs campaign launched by Punjab Governor and Chandigarh Administrator Gulab Chand Kataria. Haryana Governor Bandaru Dattatreya and Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini were also present. Mann spoke about his governments Yudh Nashyan Virudh campaign against [] The post Idolise sportspersons, not singers whose songs promote drugs: Punjab CM Mann to youngsters appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
IMD forecasts thunderstorms, hailstorms over major parts of India this week
After stormy weather in the past 24-hours in North India, the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued an Orange alert for Northwest India, including the Delhi-NCR region, as well as East and Central India, for the next four days. The regions are expected to experience heavy rainfall, accompanied by lightning, hailstorms, and strong winds, occur throughout the week. Following it, the IMD has issued an agromet advisory to protect crops and orchards. They also urged residents of vulnerable regions, particularly in urban and hilly areas to take necessary precautions before the hazardous weather. In the past 24-hours, Delhi's Safdarjung station recorded 77 mm of rainfall, marking the second-highest amount of rainfall for May since 1901. The highest was 119.3 mm, recorded on May 20, 2021, at the Safdarjung Airport. This recent rainfall was associated with the remnants of the Tauktae cyclone that crossed the Gujarat coast. After significant downpours along with thunderstorms, minimum temperatures in Delhi-NCR dropped by as much as 8C, and it has been predicted that maximum temperatures in Delhi-NCR will be below normal by 1-3C in the coming days. The IMD reports that multiple weather systems are currently in place, leading to continued rainfall, thunderstorms, and lightning in the region. A combination of a western disturbance and a series of cyclonic circulations over Rajasthan, Punjab, and Haryana has created hazardous weather conditions across large areas of North India. These weather systems are expected to remain active throughout the week. In some areas, there may be dust storms and isolated hailstorms, particularly in parts of Rajasthan. In addition to Northwest India, multiple weather systems are present over Central and Eastern India, resulting in widespread rainfall, thunderstorms, and lightning. The IMD's advisory notes the existence of a cyclonic system over Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan, as well as a trough running from Punjab to North Kerala. Furthermore, another cyclonic circulation is located over northern Bangladesh at lower and middle tropospheric levels. All these systems are anticipated to bring rain across the country in the coming days, indicating active pre-monsoon showers and causing unseasonal rainfall. This unseasonal rain is expected to be beneficial for upcoming crops, as it will help replenish soil moisture during a typically dry period, said Mahesh Palawat of Skymet Weather, a private weather agency. In its agromet advisory, IMD advised to drain out excess water from standing crops in Odisha, Kerala and Karnataka whereas it advised use of hail nets and caps to prevent damage in vegetables and orchards in Sikkim, Odisha, Himachal Pradesh, East Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh and Vidarbha. For livestock, it advised to keep animals inside shed during rainfall and hailstorm and feed and fodders at safe place. Additionally, residents should monitor the weather and be prepared to move to safer areas if conditions worsen.
Haryana Calls For All-Party Meeting Amid Escalating Water Row With Punjab
The meeting is aimed at building a unified political stance on the state's long-standing contention with Punjab regarding water allocation from the Bhakra system.
'Will cause drinking water crisis': Bhupinder Singh Hooda on Haryana-Punjab water dispute
Bhupinder Singh Hooda urged a special Assembly session and all-party meeting to tackle the escalating water dispute between Punjab and Haryana, intensified by the BBMB's directive for water release. Haryana CM Saini criticized Mann's opposition, emphasizing the critical need for water and cautioning against politicizing the issue. Punjab plans a special Assembly session to propose solutions.
Not a drop of excess water from Bhakra dam: Punjab parties unite to block release to Haryana
CHANDIGARH: Cutting across political lines, all Punjab parties on Friday unanimously decided not to spare a single drop of additional water to Haryana from the Bhakra dam. Following an all-party meet over sharing of water with Haryana as per the Bhakra Beas Management Board (BBMB) order, leaders said an all-party delegation is likely to meet Prime Minister Modi over the standoff. The two hour meeting chaired by Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann was attended by the representatives of the seven Punjab political parties who unanimously backed the state government to decide the next course of action for safeguarding Punjabs rights on its waters. After the meeting, the CM asserted that the order to release water to Haryana was being forced upon Punjab and all parties are together on the issue of safeguarding the states waters. He said after hearing the views of all parties, the government will now prepare a plan of action. Let me reiterate that there is no politics and no different political line on the issue of safeguarding the states waters and we are all together... they will later seek time from the Prime Minister. Punjab BJP president Sunil Jakhar and senior BJP leader and former minister Manoranjan Kalia reiterated that Punjab had no water to spare for Haryana and this injustice will not be tolerated, while saying confrontation should have been avoided. The BJP state unit would support the state government on the issue, they said.
Punjab parties one on forcible release of extra water to Haryana
NIA raids 17 locations in Punjab linked with gangster Happy Passian
The NIA conducted searches at 17 locations across Punjab, targeting individuals linked to gangster Happy Passian, a key operative of BKI terrorist Harwinder Singh alias Rinda. Passian, currently in the USA, is suspected of masterminding recent grenade attacks on police stations in Punjab and Haryana. The raids led to the seizure of mobile phones, digital devices, and documents.
Home Secy For Release Of Water To Haryana
Punjab, Haryana and Rajasthan are partnering states that meet their water requirements from Bhakra and Pong dams managed by the BBMB
Centre directs Punjab to implement BBMB order to release 4500 cusecs of water to Haryana
CHANDIGARH: The Centre on Friday directed the Punjab government to implement the Bhakra Beas Management Boards (BBMB) decision to release an additional 4,500 cusecs of water from the Bhakra dam to Haryana in the next eight days to meet the urgent water needs of the state. This was announced after a meeting held under the chairmanship of Union Home Secretary Govind Mohan in Delhi to discuss the implementation of the BBMB decision. Haryana govt says Punjab CM's claim 'false', will approach SC amid water row It was also agreed that during the filling period of dams, the BBMB will provide excess water to Punjab to fulfill their additional requirements. The BBMB will immediately convene a meeting of the board to work out the modalities of implementing the release of extra water to Haryana. The meeting was attended by senior officials of the Union government, the BBMB partner states -- Punjab, Haryana and Rajasthan -- and the BBMB. The meeting was necessitated after Punjab had consistently refused to release water to Haryana, prompting the Centres intervention.
Haryana govt says Punjab CM's claim 'false', will approach SC amid water row
CHANDIGARH: Amid an escalating row with Punjab over the sharing of water, the Haryana government on Friday announced its decision to approach the Supreme Court over the matter. Haryana Irrigation and Water Resources Minister Shruti Choudhry said that the process to move the Supreme Court has already been initiated. If this issue is not resolved, we will approach the Supreme Court. We have complete records and data on Haryanas water receipt, and all relevant facts will be presented before the court. It is unprecedented that Punjab is withholding the legitimate share of water of Haryana from the Bhakra Dam. This water belongs and is controlled by the Bhakra Beas Management Board (BBMB), not Punjab, which allocates water based on the needs of the concerned partner states. This process has been followed for years, she said. Choudhry asked why Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann had not raised this issue in previous years when drinking water was allocated to Haryana as per the allocations. The Punjab Chief Ministers claim that Haryana has utilized 103 percent of its allocated water is entirely false. Such misinformation appears to be politically driven, possibly due to their recent electoral defeat in Delhi, she said. She said that during the shutdown of the Bhakra canal system, Haryana had requested the release of 4000 cusecs of water to meet its drinking water needs and to ensure equitable distribution to partner states, including Delhi and Rajasthan, as no water was being received from the Yamuna through the Western Jamuna Canal (WJC). However, Punjab released only 3000 cusecs, which included Delhis share of 1049 cusecs. Given the critical drinking water situation, Haryana reiterated its demand for 4000 cusecs. Subsequently, in the Technical Committee Meeting (TCM) held on April 23, it was agreed that 8500 cusecs of water would be allocated to Haryana from April 24 to May 1 under the Haryana Contact Point for distribution to partner states. Despite the consensus, Punjab did not issue the necessary demand letter to the BBMB, resulting in water shortages in Haryana. Chaudhary further stated that Punjabs assertion that Haryana exhausted its water quota in March 2025 is factually incorrect. Punjab is selectively calculating figures based only on the deficit period. When the full water accounting for 2024 is considered, it clearly shows that Punjab received 9.30 per cent more than its allocated share, while Haryana received 0.198 per cent less. Over the last 20 years, Punjab has received 22.44 per cent more than its share, while Haryana received just 7.67 per cent more, she added. Meanwhile, strongly condemning Punjab leaders for politicizing the water issue, Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini advised them not to indulge in petty politics. Punjab is the land of the Gurus, and we bow to them. Work for the welfare of Punjabs people. Haryana was once a part of Punjab and emerged from there. Such low-level politics is not good for anyone, said Saini. He said this while interacting with media persons in Panchkula. Saini said, I assure that if the people of Punjab ever need drinking water, we will install tubewells, extract water from our groundwater, and provide it to them. I guarantee that no person in Punjab will remain thirsty. He said Haryana is only asking for the water it used to receive earlier, not more than that. Water is a natural resource. If politics continues like this, the water will go waste and flow into Pakistan, which has been shedding the blood of our unarmed citizens, said Saini. We are seeking the same SYL water as per the agreement. The Supreme Court has ruled that this is our right, he said. In a letter to Saini earlier this week, Mann said that Punjab does not have a single drop of water to share with any other state. Sources said that CM Saini has called an all-party meeting on the issue on Saturday.
Punjab parties unite to oppose water release to Haryana, seek PM Modi's intervention
CHANDIGARH: In a rare display of political unity, all recognised political parties in Punjab on Thursday unanimously declared that not a single drop of extra water would be given to Haryana from the Bhakra Dam. The decision came after the Bhakra Beas Management Board (BBMB) ordered the release of 8,500 cusecs of water to the neighbouring state, triggering tensions. An all-party delegation is now likely to seek an appointment with Prime Minister Narendra Modi to discuss the issue. The two-hour all-party meeting was convened by the ruling Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) and chaired by Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann. Representatives of seven recognised political parties were present and extended their full support to the state governments stand on safeguarding Punjabs water rights. Punjab government convenes all-party meeting, special assembly session over Bhakra dam water row Following the meeting, CM Mann said, The decision to release water to Haryana is being forced on Punjab but all parties are together on the issue of safeguarding the states waters. He added that the government will now prepare an agenda based on the views expressed in the meeting and share it with all parties. Let me reiterate that there is no politics and no different political line on the sensitive issue of safeguarding the states waters and we are all together. The Governor has already given approval for convening the session; we will later seek time from the Prime Minister. Mann asserted that Haryana had already exhausted its share of water. On humanitarian grounds, we gave them an additional 4,000 cusecs on April 4. You cannot force Punjabis to give in to this, he said. Punjab BJP president Sunil Jakhar, along with senior party leader and former cabinet minister Manoranjan Kalia, also expressed strong opposition to the BBMBs decision. Punjab has no water to spare for Haryana and this injustice will not be tolerated, said Jakhar, although he noted that the confrontation could have been avoided. Punjab heightens dam security amid water release dispute with Haryana He added, The state unit of the party is behind the state government on the issue of release of additional water to Haryana, as the neighbouring state had exhausted its allocated share for the September 21May 20 depletion period. Jakhar suggested that an all-party delegation should meet the Prime Minister or Union Home Minister Amit Shah to resolve the issue through negotiations. This was a routine matter which could have been sorted out through talks. I have a record for 23 years, which shows that states have been overdrawing water during the water depletion period. These decisions were taken through discussions, he said, blaming improper handling for the current standoff. Senior Congress leader and former minister Tript Rajinder Singh Bajwa confirmed that all party leaders had backed the governments future course of action. Meanwhile, all political parties have agreed to join the state government representatives in taking up the issue with the Prime Minister. Both Mann and Punjab AAP president Aman Arora confirmed they would seek time from the PM after the special assembly session. There was consensus that any attempt to give water to Haryana will be opposed tooth and nail. Jakhar has been requested to get us time from the PM, said Arora. Senior Shiromani Akali Dal leaders Balwinder Singh Bhunder and Daljit Singh Cheema, who were also present, said all issues related to Punjabs rights, river waters, criteria for the appointment of BBMB chairman, the Dam Safety Act, BSF jurisdiction up to 50 km inside the international border, and the transfer of Chandigarh, should be raised with the Prime Minister. The attempt of BBMB to release water to Haryana by ignoring Punjabs objections is an attack on federalism. We have given our suggestions. The Chief Minister will decide the next course of action, said Cheema. All eyes are now on the special session of the Punjab Assembly, scheduled for May 5, where a resolution on the water issue is expected to be passed.
Seven dead in rain-related incidents across north India; roads flooded, trees uprooted in Delhi-NCR
Delhi-NCR faced a severe storm. It brought heavy rain and dust. Sadly, seven people died in north India. The storm disrupted flights and traffic. Many areas saw waterlogging and fallen trees. Uttar Pradesh also reported deaths from lightning. Himachal Pradesh experienced hailstorms. Punjab and Haryana had rain and cooler temperatures. Authorities are working on relief efforts.
Punjab CM Bhagwant Mann decides not to give extra water to Haryana
In a rare display of unity, Punjab's political parties, including AAP, BJP, Congress, and SAD, convened to oppose the Centre's decision to release additional water to Haryana. Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann accused the Centre of attempting to loot Punjab's waters, asserting that the state has no surplus to share. Parties are united to protect Punjab's water rights.
Centre increases wheat procurement, restricts sugar export up to 8 LMT
The governments wheat procurement has seen a notable increase this year, bringing some relief after three consecutive years of struggling to maintain adequate stock. As of now, procurement has reached 256.31 lakh metric tonnes (LMT), a significant rise from 205 LMT on the same date last year. However, this still falls short of the governments target of 312 LMT for the current Rabi marketing season. Higher procurement figures have been reported from all five major wheat-producing statesPunjab, Haryana, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, and Uttar Pradesh, which together account for 65 per cent of the country's wheat production. So far, 21.03 lakh farmers have benefited from the procurement, receiving a total payout of Rs. 62,155.96 crore under the Minimum Support Price (MSP) scheme. Punjab has contributed 103.89 LMT, Haryana 65.67 LMT, Madhya Pradesh 67.57 LMT, Rajasthan 11.44 LMT, and Uttar Pradesh 7.55 LMT to the central pool so far. According to Sanjeev Chopra, Secretary of the Ministry of Food and Public Distribution, the government is on track to surpass last years total procurement as a considerable window still remains open in the current season. Chopra said, The increased procurement to awareness campaigns about MSP and ensured that farmers receive payments within two days. This year, the MSP for wheat has been set at Rs. 2,425 per quintal. Despite the current progress, concerns remain over the impact of adverse weather conditions on wheat procurement in recent years. In the 2022-23 season, the government procured only 187 LMT against a target of 444 LMT. In 2023-24, the procurement reached 262 LMT against a target of 341 LMT. For 2024-25, the figure stands at 267 LMT against the 320 LMT target. Meanwhile, the government has announced new regulations for the khandsari (crude sugar or jaggery) industry, aiming to ensure fair and timely payments to sugarcane farmers and improve monitoring of sugar production. The government has amended the 1966 Sugar Control Order to regulate khandsari units with a crushing capacity of 500 tonnes per day (TCD). A total of 66 such units have been identified, and the revised order is expected to be officially notified in the gazette either today or tomorrow. According to government estimates, around 30 percent of the country's sugarcane has been diverted to the khandsari industry. The new rules are intended to help track this diversion more accurately. Additionally, the government has stated that India will export up to 8 lakh metric tonnes of sugar in the 202425 season, ending in Septemberlower than the permitted quota of 10 lakh tonnes. So far, 3 lakh tonnes have been exported, and another 60,000 tonnes are currently at ports, ready for shipment.
1983 WC Winner, PGTI Chief Kapil Dev Meets UP CM Yogi Adityanath In Lucknow
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi: Professional Golf Tour of India (PGTI) chief and 1983 World Cup-winning captain Kapil Dev met Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath at his official residence here in Lucknow on Friday. CM Yogi took to X to share a glimpse of the meeting and wrote, Renowned cricketer and captain of the 1983 World Cup-winning Indian cricket team, Kapil Dev paid a courtesy visit to the official residence in Lucknow today. Kapil Dev, who had a distinguished cricket career, represented India from 1978 to 1994. Known as one of the greatest all-rounders, he played 131 Tests, scoring 12,867 runs and taking 434 wickets. In 225 ODIs, he scored 6,945 runs and claimed 253 scalps and also led India to its first World Cup win in 1983. After he retired from cricket, Kapil Dev worked in various capacities - as a coach, commentator and chancellor of the Sports University of Haryana in 2019. He also had a brief stint as India's coach for 10 months between October 1999 and August 2000. In June 2024, Kapil Dev took over as president of PGTI from Srinivasan H R. He was elected unanimously for the position. The former cricketer, who has also excelled as an amateur golfer, has been the vice president and a member of the governing body of PGTI for three years (2021 to 2023) before being elected as PGTI chief. One of his notable contributions as a board member was the introduction of the Kapil Dev Grant Thornton Invitational tournament at the DLF Golf and Country Club. Over the past few years, Kapils fame and passion for the sport earned him invitations to major events like the Dunhill Links, where he played alongside other global celebrities. One of his notable contributions as a board member was the introduction of the Kapil Dev Grant Thornton Invitational tournament at the DLF Golf and Country Club. Also Read: LIVE Cricket Score Article Source: IANS
All-party Meeting By AAP Over Punjab, Haryana Water-Sharing Issues; Begins
Representatives from various parties including AAP, Congress, BJP, SAD and BSP reached the meeting venue here to take part.
UHBVN Accounts Officer Recruitment 2025 - Apply Offline for 03 Posts Before May 15
TheUttar Haryana Bijli Vitran Nigam (UHBVN) has released an official notification for the recruitment of 03 Accounts Officer posts. Interested and eligible candidates can apply Offline through the official UHBVN website. The last date to submit the application form is 15-05-2025.
Kajal in Gujarat, Seema in Haryana, Neha in Bihar: Who is Daku Dulhan Gulshana Riaz Khan?
Gulshana Riaz Khan, known as 'Daku Dulhan', faced arrest with her gang. They ran a marriage racket across states. Gulshana posed as a bride, conning families. After weddings, she vanished with valuables. Police caught them in Ambedkar Nagar. The gang targeted vulnerable families. They staged abductions after lavish ceremonies. Haryana groom's alarm led to the arrests.
Haryana CM accuses Punjabs AAP govt of playing dirty politics
Bhakra board cant dictate terms on water release to Haryana: Punjab CM Bhagwant Mann
Security stepped up at Nangal dam amid water dispute between Punjab & Haryana
Parent Cannot Be Implicated For Kidnapping Own Child: Punjab High Court
A parent cannot be implicated for kidnapping their own child as both the parents are equal natural guardians, the Punjab and Haryana High Court has held while dismissing a plea.
Punjab congress hits out at AAP, BJP
Punjab Congress President Raja Warring asserted that Punjab won't allow diversion of even a single drop of extra water to other states, criticizing AAP's protests as mere theatrics. Partap Singh Bajwa accused BJP of injustice towards Punjab's farmers amidst the water dispute with Haryana.
Cong MLA Sukhpal Khaira calls BBMB decision 'broad daylight robbery of Punjabs resources'
Congress MLA Sukhpal Singh Khaira strongly condemned the BBMB's decision to release water to Haryana, calling it a robbery of Punjab's share amid critical water shortages. He criticized the transfer of a Punjab cadre officer and the appointment of an inexperienced replacement, alleging political manipulation by the BJP-led central government.
Illegal liquor factory busted in Shahzadpur; four arrested, massive seizure made
Haryana police in Ambala busted an illegal liquor factory in Shahzadpur, seizing a large quantity of spurious liquor and materials. Four individuals, Gurpreet Singh, Surinder Singh, Sandeep, and Sachin, were arrested during the raid. The illicit operation was owned by Bittu, who is now being pursued. The police confiscated liquor labeled under various brands, empty bottles, packaging, and sealing machines.
Dont want people going after Muslims, Kashmirs: Wife of Navy officer killed in Pahalgam
KARNAL (Haryana), May 1: We dont want people going after Muslims and Kashmiris, Himanshi Narwal said on Thursday, stoic and firm as she mourned her husband, Naval officer Lt Vinay Narwal, who was gunned down in Pahalgam just 10 days ago. He would have been 27 today. A week after Narwals ashes were immersed in Ganga, hundreds of people gathered in Karnal, the naval officers hometown, to celebrate his life by taking part in a blood donation camp. We want [] The post Dont want people going after Muslims, Kashmirs: Wife of Navy officer killed in Pahalgam appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Haryana CM Saini lists benefits of amended Waqf Act for Muslims
CHANDIGARH, May 1: Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini on Thursday listed several benefits of the Waqf (Amendment) Act for the Muslim community. At a workshop in Panchkula near here, Saini also accused the Congress of misleading Muslims over the provisions of the amended law for vote-bank politics, sources said. The workshop was part of the BJPs fortnight-long public awareness campaign launched on April 20 to publicise the benefits of the Waqf (Amendment) Act and counter the oppositions [] The post Haryana CM Saini lists benefits of amended Waqf Act for Muslims appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
No water to Haryana: Punjab CM; Security stepped up at Nangal dam
CHANDIGARH, May 1: Amid escalating tensions between Punjab and Haryana over sharing of water, Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann on Thursday asserted that his government will not allow the release of more water to the neighbouring state, claiming it has already utilised its share. He also hit out at the Bhakra Beas Management Board (BBMB) for its decision to release 8,500 cusecs of water to Haryana and said robbery of Punjabs rights will not be tolerated, and the board has no [] The post No water to Haryana: Punjab CM; Security stepped up at Nangal dam appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
'Not even a single drop': Punjab CM clears stand on releasing more water to Haryana
Punjab CM Bhagwant Mann declared his government won't release more water to Haryana, asserting the state has used its full share. This escalates a water-sharing dispute, especially after the BBMB decided to release 8,500 cusecs to Haryana, a move Punjab opposes. Mann accuses Haryana and Rajasthan of 'thuggery' and hints at an all-party meeting to address the crisis.
Punjab government convenes all-party meeting, special assembly session over Bhakra dam water row
CHANDIGARH: The Punjab Government has called an all-party meeting on Friday and convened a special assembly session on Monday to discuss the issue of Haryana being allocated additional water from the Bhakra Dam by the Bhakra Beas Management Board (BBMB). An emergency meeting of all ministers and MLAs was held this evening, headed by Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann and AAP convener Arvind Kejriwal, to discuss the emerging situation following the BBMBs order to release 8,500 cusecs of water to Haryana. Mann has convened an all-party meeting tomorrow at Punjab Bhawan, inviting all prominent political parties of the state. He unequivocally stated that Punjabis have the right over every drop of river water and no one can snatch it away. In this context, the Punjab Government has also decided to convene a special session of the state assembly on Monday (May 5). A special resolution on the water issue will be tabled during this session of the Vidhan Sabha. Meanwhile, CM Mann issued a clarion call for all parties to unite and fight to safeguard the interests of Punjab and its people. During the meeting, issues related to the alleged usurping of Punjabs rights by the Union Governmentthrough the unfair allocation of water to Haryana by the BBMBwill be deliberated upon. The meeting is intended to showcase the unity of all political parties in the state on this sensitive issue. Mann said it is high time all political parties rose above parochial considerations and fought this battle vehemently. He reiterated that the state government would not compromise on the issue and would protect Punjabs rights to river waters by all means. He sought full support and cooperation from all political parties in what he described as a war against the repressive, undemocratic, and unfair actions of the Union Government. Earlier in the day, CM Mann, who visited the Nangal Dam accompanied by local MLA and Education Minister Harjot Singh Bains, said they would not allow BBMB to release water beyond Haryanas allotted share. He added that Haryana was already receiving water to meet its drinking water needs. They suddenly demanded 8,500 cusecs of water beyond their quota. We will allow water to flow only from May 21, he said, adding that while Haryana needs water for irrigation, Punjab also needs water to irrigate its fields. We have no extra water, he stated. Mann also asked Punjab BJP President Sunil Jakhar and Union Minister Ravneet Bittu to support Punjab on this issue. He accused the Centre and the Haryana Government of hatching a conspiracy to deprive Punjab of water through the BBMB. On the other hand, Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini accused CM Mann of politicizing the issue, alleging that AAP resorts to dirty politics as elections approach. Saini said, The people of Punjab understand that AAP is playing dirty politics. When will they engage in development politics? After Delhi, AAP has realized that the people of Punjab are going to oust them. Mann Sahib should not engage in partisan politics. Citing the example of Bhai Kanhaiya, Saini said, Punjab is the land of saints, and its people used to offer water to everyone. We should take inspiration from them. This is about drinking water. Punjab is our elder brotherwhy create divisions? If Punjab is thirsty, we will give water from our share. Meanwhile, Punjab Congress President Amarinder Singh Raja Warring warned that the people of the state will not allow a single drop of extra water to flow to any other state. He said Haryana has already received its rightful due and cannot seek more water when Punjab is already facing a shortage. Warring stated there was no justification for Haryanas demand for extra water, adding, We cannot let our own state go dry to provide water to others. He assured full support and cooperation to the Punjab Government in dealing with the situation. He clarified that his party is not against providing Haryana the water already allocated under previous agreements, which it has been receiving for years. But we will not allow a single drop of extra water to flow out of Punjab, he asserted. When Punjab does not have enough water for its own consumption, how can it provide more to others? Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) President Sukhbir Singh Badal accused Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann and the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) of indulging in theatrics over the extremely sensitive issue of Punjabs river waters. He questioned why the AAP government had previously released 4,000 cusecs of water to Haryana and failed to prevent the release of an additional 8,500 cusecs now. Badal said it was highly condemnable that instead of addressing the issue of Punjabs desertification and its impact on the farm economy, AAP was engaging in superficial protests to divert attention from what he called a sellout of Punjabs river waters. Not only did Bhagwant Mann admit in writing that Punjab had started releasing 4,000 cusecs of additional water to Haryana over the past month, but he also acknowledged that Haryana CM Nayab Singh Saini had called him on April 23 and requested the release of another 8,000 cusecs. Saini has confirmed this publicly Instead of resorting to drama now, Mann should tell us under whose direction and with what authority he agreed to release Punjabs water to Haryana. Punjabis never gave him permission to do so, he said. Asserting that the SAD would not allow a conspiracy by neighboring states and the Central Government to rob Punjab of its river waters through unilateral BBMB decisions, Badal demanded that the BBMBs order be revoked immediately, as it was issued without the Punjab Governments approval in violation of the BBMB manual.
Man beheads girlfriend, dumps body in canal in Uttarakhand; headless torso recovered
DEHRADUN : A 32-year-old taxi driver, has been arrested by the Haryana police for allegedly killing his girlfriend, in a bid to marry another woman. Based on the confession by Mushtaq Ali, the police have recovered a headless body from a canal in Sitarganj. According to the police, the victim, Pooja Mandal a resident of Bengali Colony in Nanakmatta, Uttarakhand, worked at a spa centre in Gurugram, along with her younger sister, Purmila Biswas. Pooja had returned to Sitarganj in November to meet Mushtaq Ali, but went missing, prompting her sister to file a missing person report at Sector 5 police station in Gurugram on December 19. The Haryana Police had been searching for Pooja continuously until Mushtaq's arrest on Wednesday. Udham Singh Nagar Senior Superintendent of Police, Manikant Mishra, confirmed that Mushtaq had confessed to killing Pooja by slitting her throat and throwing her body into the canal around five and a half months ago. Mushtaq allegedly met Pooja in 2022, and they began a love affair. However, when Mushtaq married another woman, Pooja confronted him, leading to an argument. Mushtaq then took Pooja to a secluded spot near the Nadanna canal, where he killed her. The police are currently searching for Pooja's head, which has not been recovered yet. Police and divers are scouring the canal to locate the missing body part. Further investigation is underway.
Water for Haryana: BJPs Bittu, Jakhar accuse Punjab CM Bhagwant Mann of drama for political gain
'Robbery Of Rights', Says Punjab, Haryana Hits Out As Water Row Escalates
The political row over sharing the Bhakra dam water escalated on Thursday after Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann asserted that his government will not tolerate obbery of their rights.
The Supreme Court has expunged certain remarks made by the Punjab and Haryana High Court against the Additional Advocate General of Haryana in a case related to the death of an undertrial during the pendency of bail application. The Bench of Justice BV Nagarathna and Justice Satish Chandra Sharma castigated the High Court for passing [] The post Supreme Court expunges adverse remarks made by P&H High Court against Haryana AAG in custodial death case appeared first on India Legal .
Punjab's cabinet minister Hardeep Singh Mundian and AAP members protested in Ludhiana against the BJP's alleged attempts to divert Punjab's water resources to Haryana through the BBMB. Mundian asserted that the state government will resist this perceived injustice, accusing the BJP of conspiring to steal Punjab's water and threatening the state's agriculture and energy sectors.
Punjab heightens dam security amid water release dispute with Haryana
CHANDIGARH: The water-sharing dispute between Punjab and Haryana has intensified, with the Bhakra Beas Management Board (BBMB) transferring its Director of Water Regulation, Akashdeep Singh, a Punjab cadre officer, and replacing him with Sanjeev Kumar from the Haryana cadre, an unexpected move that has escalated tensions between the two states. Punjab has reacted strongly by stepping up security at the regulator end of the Nangal dam amid fears of a law and order problem following the BBMBs decision to release 8,500 cusecs of water to Haryana on humanitarian grounds. The decision has been vehemently opposed by Punjab, which claims that Haryana has already utilised 104 per cent of its water share for the current accounting season, from September 22, 2024, to May 20, 2025. Sources said the security enhancement was a precautionary measure in response to the heated atmosphere. So, taking precautionary measures, the security has been stepped up, said an official. Adding to the controversy, transfer orders issued for both officersAkashdeep Singh and Sanjeev Kumarstated that Singh had requested the transfer. However, Singh has sent a letter to the BBMB denying making any such request. Meanwhile, the Punjab Chief Engineer wrote to the BBMB, contending that Sanjeev Kumar has experience only in dam safety, not in water regulation, and demanded an immediate revocation of the transfer. Sources claimed Singh had been insisting on releasing water to Haryana only upon receipt of an official indent from Punjab, as per the BBMBs regulation manual. His removal is being seen as a step towards overriding Punjab's resistance to the release. During a five-hour BBMB technical committee meeting held yesterday, the decision to release the water was finalised despite strong objections from Punjab officials. They argued that Haryana had already consumed its quota and that water levels in the Pong and Ranjit Sagar dams were lower than last year. Punjab found itself isolated as BJP-ruled Haryana, Rajasthan and Delhi reportedly joined forces to push for the release, while Congress-ruled Himachal Pradesh remained neutral. The BBMB is responsible for regulating water distribution from the Bhakra, Pong and Ranjit Sagar dams, which serve the irrigation and other needs of Punjab, Haryana and Rajasthan. Reacting to the development, Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann condemned the move, calling it an act of robbery of Punjabs rights. Punjab strongly opposes the decision to provide water to Haryana through BBMB, which is the right of Punjab and Punjabis. The BJP government of the Centre and Haryana has united against Punjab. We will not tolerate another robbery of our rights by BJP at any cost. BJP should be ready to face the opposition. BJP can never be a friend of Punjab and Punjabis, he wrote on X. In retaliation, Delhi Water Minister Parvesh Verma accused the Punjab government of deliberately blocking Haryanas share of water to disrupt supply to the national capital. The Punjab government has resorted to dirty politics by stopping the water supply to Haryana and Delhi. After losing in Delhi, now they want to create a water crisis in Delhi. We are working day and night to provide clean water to every household in Delhi, and now the Punjab government wants to take revenge on the people of Delhi in this way. Stop this dirty politics or else you will be expelled from Punjab as well, Verma posted on X. Haryana has sought 8,500 cusecs of water from May 21 to 31, while Punjab has requested 8,000 cusecs, with the total demand likely to rise to 23,000 cusecs in June. Punjab officials fear that giving additional water to Haryana will bring down water levels in the Bhakra dam, severely affecting the state's own needs. Meanwhile, Punjabs ruling Aam Aadmi Party has announced state-wide protests against the BBMB decision.
Mindset of those targeting Muslims, Kashmiri students similar to terrorists: SP MP Afzal Ansari
BALLIA: Samajwadi Party MP Afzal Ansari strongly criticized the targeting of Muslims and Kashmiri students in various parts of the country following the recent terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir . He also accused the central government of failing to prevent the attack and demanded action against Pakistan. Speaking to PTI during a family function at the residence of Ballia MP Sanatan Pandey, Ansari said the attack was a result of security failure under the Narendra Modi-led government. The Pahalgam incident is a failure of the Narendra Modi-led central government. The site of the attack is 150 kilometres away from the Pakistan border. How did terrorists gain the courage to reach so deep into Indian territory? This is the time for a strong response. If there is no internal complicity, India must retaliate and reclaim Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) as its own, Ansari said. He condemned recent incidents of violence against Muslims and Kashmiri students, citing attacks by right-wing groups in Patiala, Punjab, and the vandalism of Muslim-owned shops in Haryana. Ansari alleged that both foreign terrorists and those spreading communal hatred in India share the same mindset. Terrorists who come from Pakistan to kill innocent civilians and those who try to spread hatred in India in the name of religion and caste have the same mindset. The people of this country have started recognizing them, he said. He further claimed that some domestic violent incidents are being carried out by elements supported by the government. The government is patronising such elements due to which they are doing hooliganism in the name of religion and caste. While Kashmiri students and Muslims are being harassed in some places, dalit MP Ramji Lal Suman is being threatened, he added. Calling for decisive action, Ansari emphasized the need to bring PoK under Indian control. The entire country is united on this. It is the right time to integrate Pakistan-occupied Kashmir into India. They must be punished for their crimes, and what belongs to India must return to India, the SP leader said. He also spoke about the caste-based census and credited SP chief Akhilesh Yadav for pushing the central government to act on it. In the coming times, the government will have to grant rightful entitlements to the deprived sections of society, based on the results of the caste census, he said.
Mother can't be accused of kidnapping child, rules court
The Punjab and Haryana High Court ruled that a mother cannot be accused of kidnapping her own child, granting custody of a 12-year-old boy to his mother residing in Australia. The decision came after a habeas corpus petition filed by the child's paternal uncle, who alleged unlawful custody.
Water row: BBMB to release water to Haryana, CM Mann says won't tolerate robbery of Punjab's rights
The BBMB's decision to release 8,500 cusecs of water to Haryana has sparked strong opposition from Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, who termed it a obbery of Punjab's rights. Mann asserted that Punjab will not tolerate this move, accusing the BJP-led Centre and Haryana of uniting against Punjab.
Delhi Minister Parvesh Sahib Singh accuses Punjab of deliberately disrupting water supply to Delhi and Haryana amidst a severe heatwave, alleging political motives behind the action. Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini supports the claim, criticizing Punjab's refusal to release additional water and clarifying that it's unrelated to the SYL canal dispute, emphasizing the urgent need for drinking water.
IMD: May to have more heatwave days
NEW DELHI: Most parts of the country are likely to experience seven days of heatwave in May against the normal four, and above-normal maximum and minimum temperatures. However, above-normal rainfall could help prevent the kind of extreme heat recorded last year, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) said on Wednesday. IMD Director General Mrutyunjay Mohapatra said, The number of heatwave days this May is expected to be higher than normal by one to four days across large parts of the country, particularly in Rajasthan, Haryana, Punjab, Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Jharkhand, and Gangetic West Bengal. Some areas of Gujarat, Odisha, Chhattisgarh, Maharashtra, adjoining Telangana and north Karnataka are also expected to see above-normal heatwave days, he said. Normally, different parts of the country, except the southwest Peninsular India, experience one to three days of heatwave in May. Mohapatra said, Most parts of the country are likely to receive normal to above-normal rainfall, except for some areas in northwest, central and northeast India. Heatwaves carry significant risks, particularly for vulnerable populations such as the elderly, children, and people with pre-existing health conditions, who are more prone to heat-related illnesses like heat exhaustion and heatstroke. Heatstroke, exhaustion Heatwaves carry significant risks, particularly for vulnerable populations such as elderly, children, and people with pre-existing health conditions, who are more prone to heat-related illnesses like heat exhaustion and heatstroke.
Three of family killed in roof collapse in Haryana's Ambala
AMBALA: A couple and their five-year-old son were killed when the roof of their house collapsed here on Wednesday, police said. The couple's daughter, who was playing outside the house, survived. The incident took place in Moti Nagar at around 3.30 pm. According to the police, the incident took place when Javed Ali alias Raju (35) was having lunch with his wife Anu (32) and son Noor Ahmed (5) at home. The roof of the house was made of wooden beams and a heavy iron beam was placed in the middle. It collapsed and trapped the three victims under the debris. Hearing a loud explosion, people in the vicinity gathered and informed the police. After the incident, fire tenders, an ambulance and a police team reached the spot. All three injured were pulled out and rushed to a hospital where the doctors declared them dead, police said. The police have informed their relatives who live in Karnal. Javed used to sell balloons and toys and had been living in Ambala city for the last several years.
Amid water row with Punjab, Haryana Opposition leaders demand action on SYL project
The SYL project was envisaged as a 214-km canal, with 122 km to be constructed in Punjab and the remaining 92 km in Haryana; while Haryana has completed its portion of the project, Punjab, which initiated construction in 1982, shelved it subsequently
57 transfers in 33 years: IAS officer Ashok Khemka bows out after headline-grabbing innings
CHANDIGARH: After 33 years of service during which he resisted political pressure and served with integrity, leading to 57 transfers, Ashok Khemka, a 1991 batch IAS officer of the Haryana cadre, retired on Wednesday from his last posting as Additional Chief Secretary (Transport), which he held for five months. Khemka joined the bureaucracy after a degree in mathematics from St Stephens College in Delhi, followed by a B.Tech in computer science and engineering from the IIT-Kharagpur, and a PhD in Computer Science from the Tata Institute of Fundamental Research, Mumbai. While in service, he also obtained an MA degree in economics from Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU), as well as a Bachelor of Law degree from Panjab University. Khemka's transfers continued unabated irrespective of whether the Haryana government was led by the Congress, BJP or INLD. Averaging a transfer every seven months, his postings often reflected political discomfort with his uncompromising approach. Between 2004 and 2014, during the Congress government headed by Bhupinder Singh Hooda, he was transferred more than 21 times. Later, in the BJP-led government from 2014 under Manohar Lal Khattar, he was transferred seven times in the first five years alone. Khemka was given low-profile postings in departments such as archives, archaeology, printing and stationery, prompting him to voice concerns about being sidelined. In October 2022, when the Haryana government ignored his claim while promoting others to the secretary-rank, Khemka posted on X, Congratulations to my batchmates newly appointed as Secretaries to GOI! While this is an occasion for merry, it brings equal measure of despondency for ones own self having been left behind. Straight trees are always cut first. No regrets. With renewed resolve, I shall persist. As Director General of Land Records and Consolidation in 2012, Khemka made national headlines when he cancelled the mutation of a controversial land deal between real estate giant DLF and a company owned by Robert Vadra, son-in-law of then Congress president Sonia Gandhi. He was immediately transferred by the then Congress government headed by Hooda. In 2013, while serving as Managing Director of Haryana Seeds Development Corporation, Khemka exposed alleged irregularities in the purchase of fungicides and seeds, leading to another transfer. In 2014, when the BJP came to power in the state, he was posted as Transport Commissioner but was again transferred as he decided not to issue fitness certificates to oversized trucks which led to a transport strike in January 2015. He had then tweeted, 60% of road accidents [are] due to overloaded and oversized transport vehicles... The choice is between road safety, protection of public property and environment on the one side, and private profits on the other. On January 23, 2023, Khemka had written a letter to then Haryana Chief Minister Khattar offering to serve in the vigilance department to combat corruption. Lopsided distribution of work does not serve public interest. Towards the end of my service career, I offer my services to head the vigilance department to root out corruption. If given an opportunity, I assure you there would be a real war against corruption and no one however high and mighty will be spared, the letter read. He noted that some officers were overloaded while others, like himself, had postings with insufficient work. At the time, he was posted in the archives department. He served in this department four times as director general and later principal secretary, thrice during the tenure of BJP governments and once during Congress rule. During his brief tenure at the Haryana Staff Selection Commission, Khemka had flagged potential irregularities in recruitment processes, which resulted in another transfer. A book titled Just Transferred: The Untold Story of Ashok Khemka by Bhavdeep Kang and Namita Kala, published in 2020, chronicles Khemka's turbulent journey.
HPSC Recruitment 2025 - Apply Online for 16 Manager, Assistant Engineer and Other Posts
The Haryana Public Service Commission (HPSC) has released an official notification for the recruitment of 16 Manager, Assistant Engineer and Other posts. Interested and eligible candidates can apply online through the official HPSC website. The last date to submit the application form is 28-05-2025.
Rajat Dalal on Mentoring Team Haryana in Battleground
Amazon MX Player, Amazons free streaming service, has been amping the buzz with each episode of Battleground, the ultimate fitness showdown where strength, stamina and willpower are put to the ultimate test.
Rajasthan And Haryana Join Hands To Revive Vedic-Era Saraswati River
Haryana CM Nayab Singh Saini appealed Punjab CM Bhagwant Mann to provide more water from the Bhakra reservoir. However, Mann refused and said the water was need for Punjab farmers.
Union Minister Ravneet Singh Bittu criticized Punjab CM Bhagwant Mann for raising the water dispute with Haryana amidst national mourning for terror victims and heightened tensions with Pakistan. Bittu accused Mann of divisive politics and demanded an apology, emphasizing that the water issue is ill-timed and undermines national unity during a critical period.
Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini has strongly criticized Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann for allegedly politicizing water distribution and depriving Haryana of its rightful share. Saini claims Haryana is receiving only 60% of its required drinking water, and accuses Mann of punishing Delhi's residents due to AAP's electoral losses. Saini appealed to Mann to prioritize national interest by ensuring Haryana's water supply, highlighting the need to empty the Bhakra Dam before the monsoon season.
Excess Water Will Go To Pak If... Haryana's 'Bhakra Dam' Request To Punjab
Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini urged Punjab counterpart Bhagwant Mann to provide drinking water to Haryana or the excess Bhakra reservoir water will flow to Pakistan.
Kerala top in health & education, but poor in fiscal segment
KOCHI: Kerala secured the top position in social indicators, which include health and education, but stood at a poor 15th spot among 17 large states in the fiscal segment, in the ranking of states released by CareEdge Ratings, a leading credit rating agency, on Tuesday. Kerala ranked seventh in the composite ranking, which captures seven key pillars economic, fiscal, infrastructure, financial development, social, governance and environment covering 50 indicators. Maharashtra, Gujarat and Karnataka were top three in composite ranking, while Telangana, Tamil Nadu and Haryana were in the fourth, fifth and sixth spots, respectively. Andhra Pradesh (8), Odisha (9), Punjab (10), Chhattisgarh (11), Rajasthan (12), West Bengal (13), Uttar Pradesh (14), Madhya Pradesh (15) and Jharkhand (16) figured after Kerala. Bihar (17) was at the bottom of the table. Kerala excelled in the social rankings occupying the top spot. Within social indicators, while Kerala scored strongly across the health and education related indicators, it lagged on the employment front, said Rajani Sinha, chief economist, CareEdge Ratings. Social pillar comprises education (gross enrolment ratio in secondary education, literacy rate), health (infant mortality rate, life expectancy), labour (unemployment rate) and poverty (multidimensional poverty index), which are critical for attaining sustainable and inclusive growth. Tamil Nadu and Maharashtra were placed second and third in social segments. The bottom three states were UP (15), MP (16) and Bihar (17). The worrying segment for Kerala is the fiscal pillar, which includes budget deficit (fiscal deficit, budget deficit), debt repayments, guarantees (total outstanding liabilities as a percentage of GSDP, revenue deficit as a percentage of GSDP), debt repayments (total outstanding liabilities-% of GSDP), interest expenses, revenue generation capacity, debt management and others. Kerala fared poorly on the fiscal pillar, ranking 15th, among large states. This can be attributed to a weaker score for budget deficits, debt, and quality of spending. Going ahead, focus on improving the states fiscal health remains critical, said Ranjani. She said at the 9th position, Kerala fared better in the financial development segment compared to states like UP, MP, Odisha and Gujarat due to credit disbursements by banks and loans to self-help groups. Kerala stood 11th in the economy pillar, which takes into consideration GSDP growth, inflation and investments. Top three performers were Gujarat, Karnataka and Maharashtra. A segment where Kerala came in top five was infrastructure, comprising physical infrastructure such as per capita power availability, air passenger traffic, road density, railway, etc, and social infrastructure, including availability of doctors and pupil teacher ratio. Keralas ranking on seven pillars Economic 11 Fiscal 15 Financial Development 9 Infrastructure 5 Social 1 Governance 8 Environment 7 Composite ranking 7 Top composite rankers Maharashtra Gujarat Karnataka
INTERVIEW | Any alliance should be based on principles: Badal
Sukhbir Singh Badal has been re-elected president of the Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD). The former Punjab Deputy Chief Minister heads the century-old party when it faces its worst crisis yet and strives to regain its footing in state politics. Badal talks to Harpreet Bajwa about his challenges and what went wrong with his partys relations with the BJP. Excerpts: Former Deputy CM Sukhbir Singh Badal is back in the saddle. Has he weathered all storms? Were the last few months tough-going? SAD and its leadership are known for their struggles for the public good. We have always worked for welfare of the kisan, mazdoor and weaker sections. The last six months, which you describe as a tough phase for the party, came about due to a conspiracy to take control of our religious shrines, ideology and institutions. The recent political conference on Baisakhi (April 13), which witnessed a record turnout, can be described as a mass awakening in this regard. Punjabis have decided to stand up against outside forces who want to weaken the SAD, and Im confident we will get stronger by the day. You gave party supporters a clarion call to return the SAD to power in the 2027 Assembly polls. How do you plan to go about it? There is a groundswell of public support for the SAD based on its past record of speedy development, unique social welfare schemes and its ability to maintain peace and communal harmony when in government. Simultaneously, Punjabis are determined to see the back of the AAP, which has betrayed them. They also dont want a return to the days of corruption and mismanagement of the Congress. Where does the party stand for today? Has the rival faction, which parted ways, impacted your popularity among Sikhs? The SAD is on an upswing. The partys recent organisational elections witnessed a record 27 lakh people enrolling as members. This indicates that the Sikh Panth has understood that the leaders who left the SAD to form their faction (Sudhar Lehar) are tools of the Centre. They have lost all credibility. People will reject any attempts to divide the Sikh community and Punjabis at large and will unite under the SAD. After becoming party chief, you alleged that your former ally, the BJP, and certain Sikh institutions conspired against the SAD. Elaborate. It is unfortunate but true; the BJP turned against not only the SAD but the Sikh community also once we left the NDA in support of farmers protesting the three black laws. Since then, efforts are on to weaken and take over Sikh institutions. The management committees of Sri Hazur Sahib and Patna Sahib were expanded to bring them under government control. The BJP captured the Delhi Sikh Gurdwara Management Committee by alluring office bearers. The Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee was broken and a separate committee was formed for Haryana. There was undue interference in SGPC elections to help stooges of the Centre. Do you foresee a future alliance with the BJP in the 2027 Assembly elections? We are not thinking along these lines and are strengthening the SAD to take everyone along with us. Also, I feel that an alliance, if any, should be based on principles. The SAD is firm on this. We cannot compromise our principles and our ideology at any cost. We stand for the rights of farmers, minorities and Bandi Singhs even as we want to safeguard our river waters and our rights over Chandigarh. We want trade along the Indo-Pak border to reopen.
Punjab & Haryana HC: Military diplomas not equal to qualification required for JBT posts
Mother Dairy hikes milk prices by upto Rs 2 per litre
Mother Dairy has hiked prices of liquid milk by up to Rs 2 per litre, effective from Wednesday. The new prices will be effective in Delhi-NCR, Uttar Pradesh, Haryana and Uttarakhand markets. Mother Dairy is constrained to revise the consumer price of its liquid milk by up to Rs. 2 per litre, effective from April []
Over 5K illegal abortion kits seized in Haryana
Haryana CM felicitates 64 UPSC achievers
BJPs nefarious designs to force Punjab to give extra water to Haryana: CM Mann
CHANDIGARH: Amid a fresh row over water sharing between Punjab and Haryana, Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann on Tuesday asked the Centre to fill up Punjab's reservoirs by diverting the water flowing to Pakistan, now that the Indus Waters Treaty is in abeyance. Mann said the BJP is claiming that it will not allow water flow to Pakistan. Then you give that water to us, fill our dams and we will give it to Haryana, he said. He said that the Union government should divert the waters of Chenab, Jhelum, Ujh and other rivers to the state after cancelling the Indus Waters Treaty. Mann said the state does not have a single drop of water to give to Haryana as its own paddy season is round the corner. He said Haryana has utilised its share of water in March and is now seeking additional water for April and May. We told them that they should have used their share of water judiciously. We have a paddy sowing season coming up. There is already demand for canal water from farmers, he added. Stating that hitherto Haryana has used 103 per cent of its allocated water, Mann accused the BJP of pressurising Punjab to release more water to the neighbouring state. Mann alleged that the Bhakra Beas Management Board (BBMB) is being illegally used by the BJP to achieve this goal. He said that Punjab has upgraded its canal water system due to which it now requires water to cater to the needs of its farmers in the wake of the ensuing paddy season. Mann said that already the state has given 4000 cusecs of water to Haryana on humanitarian grounds to fulfill their drinking water needs. He said the water situation is dismal in the state, with water in the Ranjit Singh Dam and Pong Dam being 39 feet and 24 feet lower compared to the level recorded last year at the same time. He said that the BJP should refrain from politicising the issue, noting that Punjab contributes 185 metric tons of paddy to the national food pool. He said the groundwater situation in the state is very grim, adding that as most of the river resources of the state have dried up, it needs more water to cater to its irrigation needs. Meanwhile, Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini has termed the statement made by Mann regarding water distribution as shocking. He said that on April 26, he personally spoke to Mann over the phone and informed him that the technical committee of the BBMB had decided to release water to Punjab, Haryana, Delhi and Rajasthan on April 23. However, officers from Punjab were showing reluctance in implementing this decision. On that day, Mann gave a clear assurance that he would immediately instruct his officers to ensure its implementation by the next morning, said Saini. He further said that the Punjab government, however, did nothing and even stopped responding to calls from Haryana government officials, following which he wrote a letter to Mann to apprise him about the facts. Saini said he is astonished that instead of responding to his letter even after 48 hours, Mann had released a video in an attempt to mislead the public by disregarding the facts and polishing his political image in Punjab.
JAIPUR: Following India's suspension of the Indus Water Treaty after the Pahalgam incident, water from the Sindhu, Ravi, Beas, and Sutlej rivers, currently flowing into Pakistan, may soon be redirected to benefit northern states like Rajasthan, Haryana, and Punjab. As part of this plan, efforts to revive the long-extinct Saraswati River in Rajasthan will also be expedited. In a significant development, Rajasthan and Haryana officials met scientists in Jaipur on Monday to discuss reviving the Saraswati river. A team from Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) and the Government of Denmark will map the river's ancient paleo channel to trace and restore its original flow. Once the flow route is identified, encroachments and other obstructions along the riverbed will be cleared. The Central Arid Zone Research Institute (CAZRI), Jodhpur, and IIT-BHU have also agreed to support the initiative. The meeting, held at the Birla Institute of Scientific Research in Jaipur, was organised by the Haryana Saraswati Heritage Development Board. Rajasthan Water Resources Minister Suresh Singh Rawat and HSHDB Vice President Dhuman Singh led detailed discussions on the project's roadmap. It was decided that Rajasthan would set up a dedicated social cell to create awareness and accelerate progress on the revival efforts. Speaking on the occasion, HSHDB vice-chairman Dhuman Singh said, The Saraswati river will become a lifeline for both Haryana and Rajasthan. Together, we will trace its flow and work towards its revival. Minister Rawat emphasised Rajasthan's proactive stance on inter-state water issues. The state government has already taken the initiative to revive the Saraswati river. Representatives from the Danish Embassy have requested the involvement of both Central and State Ground Water Departments to strengthen this important collaboration, he said. Notably, a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed between the Water Resources Department and the Danish Embassy during the Rajasthan Investment Summit held a few months ago. Denmark has pledged its support for the scientific revival of Saraswatis paleo channels and has called for deeper involvement of relevant groundwater authorities.
Supreme Court orders CBI probe into Supertech builder projects, cites builder-bank nexus
NEW DELHI: T he Supreme Court on Tuesday directed the CBI to register a preliminary enquiry and investigate the nexus between Supertech, a real estate developer , and eight other banks over delays in project completion and forcing homebuyers to pay EMIs. The top court ordered that the Central Bureau of Investigation will probe the incomplete projects of the realty major Supertech Limited in the NCR including Noida, Greater Noida, and Gurugram where irregularities have been found. The court observed that there appeared to be an unholy nexus between these eight banks and developers involved in these projects. Taking into account an affidavit filed by the CBI in the case, a two-judge bench comprising Justice Surya Kant and Justice N. Kotiswar Singh directed the Directors General of Police (DGPs) of Uttar Pradesh and Haryana to provide a list of Deputy Superintendents of Police (DSPs), inspectors, and constables to the agency, enabling it to form a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to probe the alleged nexus and irregularities involving Supertech and the banks. The court instructed that the CBI investigate the matter thoroughly and dig deeper to uncover the root of the irregularities. Further, the court ordered the CEOs of the Greater Noida Authority, Noida Authority, and the Secretary of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI), as well as officials from the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs and the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), to nominate one senior-most officer from their respective organizations within a week to assist the SIT in the investigation. The Supreme Court issued this order for a detailed CBI probe after hearing a batch of petitions filed by several homebuyers. Reportedly, around 1,000 petitioners had approached the apex court, alleging that they were being illegally forced by banks to pay EMIs despite not receiving possession of their flats. Taking note of these concerns, the court directed the CBI to conduct a comprehensive investigation. The petitioners who had booked flats in the NCR region demanded a thorough probe into Supertechs projects and the role of various banks that had loaned over 5,000 crore under the subvention scheme for its multiple housing developments. According to the court order, the Supreme Court bench will monitor the status of the CBI investigation on a monthly basis. It is important to note that a subvention scheme operates by having banks disburse the sanctioned loan amount directly to the builders account. During this period, the builder is required to pay the EMIs on the sanctioned loan until the flats are handed over to the homebuyers. However, the builder eventually began defaulting on loan payments, and at the same time, banks started demanding EMIs from the homebuyers, as per the tripartite agreement.
Four sentenced to prison for attempting to rob ATM in Kurnool district
The four, hailing from Haryana, have been convicted just one-and-half months following their arrest after attempting to rob the Bank of Baroda ATM on the NH 44 service road at Chinnatekur village
Relief for Raveena Tandon, Farah Khan As Court Clears Them In 2019 Religious Sentiment Case
The Punjab and Haryana High Court granted interim relief to Raveena Tandon, Farah Khan, and others in a 2019 case for allegedly hurting religious sentiments.
Juvenile among four nabbed for Haryana woman's gang-rape, her daughter's murder
The woman had an altercation with a neighbour, following which she was dragged to the dumpsite and gang-raped, an official said, adding her husband was not at home at the time of the incident
SC orders CBI probe into Supertech builder projects in NCR
The Supreme Court ordered a CBI inquiry into Supertech Limited projects in NCR. This follows concerns about a bank-developer connection. The court directed UP and Haryana police to provide officers for a special investigation team. Nodal officers from various authorities will assist the SIT.
Thieves took flight after heist of over 6,000 mobile phones in Chikkaballapur; seven arrested
CHIKBALLAPUR: The Chikkaballapur CEN (Cyber, Economic and Narcotics) Police cracked a major mobile phone theft case by arresting seven individuals from the Mewat area of Haryana and Rajasthan, who allegedly flew out after executing the heist. Speaking to The New Indian Express, Chikkaballapur Superintendent of Police Kushal Chowksey said that on 22 November 2024, Safe Seed Carriers Private Limited company manager Padmanab lodged a complaint with Peresandra Police Station. He stated that 170 boxes of Redmi mobiles (totalling 3,400 phones) and 163 boxes of POCO mobiles (totalling 3,260 phones), valued around Rs 3 crore, had been stolen. The container used for transporting the consignment from Noida, New Delhi to wholesale dealers was found empty near Reddy Gollarahalli under Peresandra Police limits. In connection with the case registered at Peresandra Police Station, a team led by Inspector Nayaz Baig arrested the prime accused, Rahul, the driver of the vehicle and a resident of Palwal district in Haryana, Chowksey said. He added that, as the accused were residents of Haryana and Rajasthan, the case was transferred to the CEN Police under the leadership of Deputy Superintendent of Police Ravi Kumar and Circle Inspector Surya Prakash. The team worked on various angles using both traditional and technical methods and successfully arrested all accused involved in the theft, including seizing the truck used for transportation, he said. The arrested were identified as Imran, Mohammed Musthafa alias Badra, Anoop Roy, Abhijith Paul, Sakrulla, and Yusuf Khan. During the investigation, it was revealed that the theft was premeditated. The accused had travelled by flight and, after stealing the consignment, sold the phones at cheaper rates in New Delhi, distributing them across the country. The police recovered 56 mobile phones. Chowksey said the police, with the help of the Department of Telecommunications, blocked the stolen phones using their IMEI numbers. A total of 4,084 phones were blocked, including 856 in Uttar Pradesh East and West, 539 in Tamil Nadu, 466 in Andhra Pradesh, 337 in Madhya Pradesh, and 300 in the North East, he said. He further said, Deputy Superintendent of Police Ravi Kumar, Circle Inspector Surya Prakash, and the team travelled to Haryana and other parts of the country to arrest the accused.
This Ex-Pakistan MP Sells Ice Cream In Haryana. Will He Be Deported Along With 34 Family Members?
Daba Ram, a former Pakistani MP, now lives in Haryana. Six family members have Indian citizenship; 28 await approval
HPSC Assistant Professor Admit Card 2025 OUT Download Link hpsc.gov.in
Haryana Public Service Commission has officially released the HPSC Assistant Professor Admit Card 2025. Candidates who have applied for the Assistant Professor Exam can now download their admit card from the official website hpsc.gov.in.
Punjab and Haryana high court to be fenced for better security cover
Smriti Irani addresses Yuva Sansad at O.P. Jindal Global University on equity, development, gender, and representation Sonipat (Haryana): Former Union Minister Smriti Zubin Irani addressed the Yuva Sansad and the students of O.P. Jindal Global University at a wide-ranging interactive discussion on the theme: Lok Sabha, Constituent Assembly & Special Sitting of the Cabinet Committee [] The post Smriti Irani addresses Yuva Sansad at O.P. Jindal Global University on equity, development, gender, and representation appeared first on Mangalorean.com .
Farmer unions tell Centre they will boycott May 4 talks if Punjab govt representatives take part
CHANDIGARH: The Sanyukt Kisan Morcha (SKM) (Non-Political) and Kisan Mazdoor Morcha (KMM) have urged Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan not to invite representatives of the Punjab government to the proposed meeting between farmer unions and the Centre scheduled for May 4. The farmer unions said that if representatives of the Punjab government are called for the meeting, they will be compelled to boycott the talks. Both the farmers unions, who have been holding talks with the Centre on their demands, have written a letter to Chouhan saying they are of the firm view that the issues related to agriculture can only be resolved through talks for which they are always ready. Our last meeting was held in Chandigarh on March 19 in a very cordial atmosphere and it was decided that the next meeting will be held on May 4. But after that meeting, the Punjab government betrayed the trust of farmer leaders by arresting them and sending them to jail. The state government also used force to crush peaceful protests at the Shambhu and Khanauri borders, insulting the farmers and hurting their self-respect, said the letter which was signed by Jagjit Singh Dallewal, Abhimanyu Kohar and other farmer leaders. We request that no representatives of the Punjab government should take part in the proposed meeting on May 4. If the representatives of the state government take part in this meeting, then both the farmers unions will be compelled to abstain from the talks in accordance with justice and sentiments of farmers across the country. We further request the government to please clarify their stand in this regard to us by letter as soon as possible, added the letter. In the March 19 meeting with the farmers, besides the Union ministers, the Punjab Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema, Agriculture Minister Gurmeet Singh Khudian and Food Supplies Minister Lal Chand Kataruchak were also present as the Punjab government had acted as a mediator. The protesting farmers had been camping at the Shambhu (Shambhu-Ambala) and Khanauri (Sangrur-Jind) border points between Punjab and Haryana since February 13 last year, when their march to Delhi was thwarted by security forces, until the Punjab Police evicted them on March 19.
Haryana Man Quits Stable Bank Job To Deliver Milk In An Audi
Amit Bhadana, from Mohabbatabad village in Faridabad, has turned his passion for high-end bikes and cars into a full-time profession.
TheCentral University of Haryana has released an official notification for the recruitment of 03 Hindi Officer, Laboratory Assistant and Other posts. Interested and eligible candidates can apply online through the official Central University of Haryana website. The last date to submit the application form is 20-05-2025.
IMD predicts heatwave from Kashmir to Madhya Pradesh, heavy rains in Kerala, West Bengal
The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) forecasts heavy rains for several northeastern states, including Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland, Manipur, Meghalaya, and Tripura, along with Gangetic West Bengal and Kerala. Simultaneously, a heat wave is expected in isolated areas across Haryana, Chandigarh, Delhi, Punjab, Himachal Pradesh, West Rajasthan, Jammu and Kashmir & Ladakh, and West Madhya Pradesh.
Haryana CM Nayab Singh Saini vows to expel illegal entrants and strengthen fight against drugs
Discoms face losses due to poor market assessment by Haryana Power Purchase Centre
Hindutva mob attacks shops in Haryana after Pahalgam attack
A Hindutva mob in Saha, Ambala, Haryana, reportedly vandalised and set fire to Muslim-owned shops while chanting Jai Shri Ram during a protest against the Pahalgam terror attack. A video circulating on social media shows a raged man smashing items in a shop while others around him chant Pakistan Murdabad, Bharat Mata Ki Jai. Meanwhile, 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 .
