Doubling of coastal railway line to be executed in three phases, says K.C. Venugopal
The first phase will cover the doubling of the 14-kilometre stretch from Ambalappuzha to Alappuzha
Karnataka State Kambala Association gets recognition due to it from SAK - Deccan Herald
Karnataka State Kambala Association gets recognition due to it from SAK Deccan Herald
CHANDIGARH: Senior IAS officer Amneet P. Kumar on Thursday urged Haryana CM Nayab Singh Saini to register an FIR and arrest those named in her husband Y. Puran Kumars suicide note. She also requested security for her family. Chief Minister Saini visited Amneet on Thursday to offer condolences, accompanied by senior officials including Minister Krishan Lal Panwar, Chief Secretary Anurag Rastogi, Home Secretary Sumita Misra, and others. Amneet, Commissioner and Secretary in Haryanas Foreign Cooperation Department, was part of an official delegation to Japan led by the CM. She returned to India on Wednesday upon receiving the news of her husband's death. Sources said Amneet, in a confidential letter to the CM, expressed anguish over grave injustice and administrative inaction 48 hours after her husband's death. The nine-page suicide note names senior police officers for his alleged harassment and mental torture. In her letter, Amneet expressed deep grief and a sense of injustice over the loss of her husband, a Presidents Medal awardee. She urged that his suicide note, titled Final Note, be treated as a dying declaration, citing cognizable offences under the SC/ST Act, and called his death a major loss to those who saw him as a symbol of empowerment. In her demands to the CM, Amneet has sought: Immediate registration of an FIR against all individuals named in the suicide note and complaint, suspension and arrest of the accused to prevent tampering with evidence or influencing the investigation, permanent security cover for her family, particularly her two daughters, citing threats and emotional distress, protection of the familys dignity and rights in the face of continued harassment and fear. Meanwhile, Kumar's body has been kept at the mortuary of Government Medical Super Specialty Hospital (GMSH), Sector 16. Officials stated that the autopsy would be conducted by a board of doctors once the family is ready and procedural clearances are obtained. Oppn demand impartial probe On Thursday, several political leaders urged the government for an impartial investigation into the death of the senior IPS officer. Former Chief Minister and Leader of the Opposition Bhupinder Singh Hooda demanded an impartial probe saying that it is the state governments responsibility to ensure justice. If a senior police officer is not safe in the state, one can imagine the plight of ordinary citizens, Hooda said. Congress MP from Ambala, Varun Chaudhary, alleged that Scheduled Caste officers are being harassed by senior officials in the BJP government, pushing them into mental distress. An FIR should be registered against those named in the suicide note. All documents recovered from Kumars house should also be preserved, he added. Former Union Minister and Congress MP from Sirsa, Kumari Selja said, If an honest officer is driven to suicide due to systemic failures, it is a matter of grave concern. I extend my condolences to the bereaved family and demand a high-level, impartial investigation to ensure such incidents do not recur. Rajya Sabha MP Randeep Surjewala called the incident a case of forced suicide, describing it as both shocking and deeply tragic. In a post on X (formerly Twitter), he said, While the Chief Minister remains silent, we hope the Chandigarh Administration and the Union Home Ministry will heed to the plea of Puran Kumars wife and ensure justice. He questioned, Is Haryanas BJP government so prejudiced that a Dalit IPS officer neither receives a hearing nor justice?
Udupi kambala association gets govt.s recognition
Schoolboy injured after being hit by speeding van in Ashok Nagar
A senior official of the city traffic police said R. Rajakaviyan, a Class 7 student, was on his way to a private school in West Mambalam on a bicycle from his home on Ashok Nagar 7th street when the accident occurred
Chandigarh MP Tewari demands MRTS for the city, point of call status for the airport
CHANDIGARH: Congress Member of Parliament from Chandigarh and former Union Minister Manish Tewari said that an integrated Mass Rapid Transit System (MRTS) connecting Chandigarh with its adjoining cities of Mohali, Panchkula, and New Chandigarh must be established. He also reiterated the need to grant Point of Call status to the Chandigarh International Airport to enable more international flights from the region. Addressing an event organised by the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) today, he recalled that during his tenure as the Member of Parliament from Anandpur Sahib, he had written to Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari in November 2019, urging for the establishment of the MRTS Chandigarh linking it with Ambala, Panchkula, Mohali, New Chandigarh and Kurali. Tewari stressed that this proposed transport system would link Chandigarh with neighbouring areas of Punjab and Haryana, making not only intra-city transportation easier but also enhancing regional business connectivity as it would unleash the creative, innovative and economic potential of the region. However, he lamented that the Central Government has not been paying due attention to the issue, while the Punjab and Haryana governments and the Chandigarh administration currently lack the capacity to undertake such a major project independently. He also reiterated the need to approve the Chandigarh International Airport as a Point of Call to facilitate more international flights. Tewari explained that many domestic airlines operating from Chandigarh also fly to international destinations, and there is no restriction on them to increase their international operations; however, granting a Point of Call status would open up many more global routes from the airport as foreign Airlines would be able to operate to and fro from the Mohali-based Chandigarh International Airport. He noted that he has repeatedly raised this demand with the Central Government since 2019 onwards, but due to pressure from mega airport operators, this is being subverted as they do not want regional aviation hubs to develop. Tewari said that several administrative reforms are required in Chandigarh and that he has been consistently voicing these demands both inside and outside Parliament. He emphasised the urgent need for major fundamental structural changes in the city to make business activities more efficient and profitable. The current Governance Model of Chandigarh is unviable, ossified, redundant and unsustainable to meet the aspirations of the people of Chandigarh. There should be a properly empowered Mayor in Council directly elected by all the electors of Chandigarh for a term of a five-year term. The Mayor in Council must have control over all subjects except land, public order and police, which can best in the Chief Secretary or Administrator till the Political Questionof Chandigarh is finally settled. He said the Centre must take the initiative as a 100% Centrally funded and financed project, as this has become a pressing need of the hour. Tewari further underlined the need for policy reforms and infrastructure improvements to make industrial operations smoother and more business-friendly in the region. He assured the gathering that he would continue to strongly advocate for the concerns of the industrial, commerce and business sectors of the region.
Between Lands and Shambala show out
The project is expected to benefit approximately 1 lakh commuters by providing a safe, comfortable, and efficient travel option. Moreover, it will help alleviate traffic congestion on the Delhi-Ambala Highway (NH-44).
Special drive by Thiruvananthapuram rural police unearths loan sharks in capital
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: A special drive by the Thiruvananthapuram rural police identified loan sharks as five cases were registered and many documents were seized from different parts of the capital district. The special drive was carried out to control unreasonable high interest rates and curb illegal money lending activities following the orders of Rural SP K S Sudarshan. The drive, carried out on Friday covered multiple police station limits including Kallambalam, Pangode, Palode, Kilimanoor, and Kadakkavur. During the operation, police seized a range of items used by illegal financiers including property documents, currency notes, promissory notes, blank cheques, RC books, stamp papers, and other related materials. In Kallambalam police station limits, three property documents, currency worth Rs 2,50,000 and a contract paper were seized from the house of Sreej, a native of Njekkad. In Pangode police station limits, officers recovered currency totalling Rs 2 lakh and 21,000, two cheques, two revenue-stamp papers, and a transaction record book from the residence of Prabhash from Thengumkodu. In Palode police station limits, police seized Rs 60,000, two stamped papers, one revenue-stamp sheet, and a diary containing details of financial transactions from the house of Sunil Kumar from Kurupuzha. In Kilimanoor, five RC books, 20 blank cheques, and three promissory notes were recovered from the house of Manesh from Malayamadam. At Kadakkavur, five blank cheques, four stamped papers, one promissory note, and one Aadhaar card were seized from the house of Franklin George, a resident of Kadakavur. The police said that the raids are continuing and further action is expected as part of ongoing efforts to bring loan sharks and illegal lenders under strict control. The special drive was conducted in the wake of repeated incidents of harassment by loan sharks.
Haryana rights panel seeks report on 2 jailbreaks from Ambala prison
Introducing an old resident ofWest Mambalam
A houseowner has made this baobab feel welcome by giving it breathing space; but it has to be protected from passersby
Alert Railway Staff, Doctors Help Woman Deliver Baby At Ambala Station
A woman travelling from Jammu to Kanpur gave birth to a baby at Ambala Cantonment station with help from police and doctors; both are stable at Civil Hospital Ambala Cantonment.
Cops shut down fast food joints on key city stretches
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The capitals thriving street food culture, which has become a key part of nightlife in areas such as Sasthamangalam, Vellayambalam and Vazhuthacaud, is facing curbs and eviction following intervention by the police. There are over 100 food joints, including trucks and makeshift stalls, operating along these stretches serving budget-friendly meals for the public. Despite repeated demands, the city corporation has failed to designate street vending zones in the capital. According to officials, unauthorised food operators are mushrooming in the streets of the capital because of lack of enforcement. Food prices in restaurants are skyrocketing and these street food vendors offer budget-friendly meals for the public, especially for students and youngsters. Instead of shutting down food trucks and joints, they should allow them to operate. Most of the days we depend on these outlets for dining, said Vinod K, who works at a private firm. According to Museum police, they have shut down all street food outlets on the Vellayambalam-Sasthamangalam stretch. We have served more notices to food vendors in the Edappazhinji-Vazhuthacaud stretch. We took action following instruction from our higher authorities. There have been plenty of complaints regarding encroachment of roads and pathways by these food vendors, said the official. The street vendors who have invested lakhs on these food trucks have landed in deep trouble and are hoping for positive intervention from the state government. Shahul Hameed, district president of the Food Truck Owners Samiti, said that they have decided to take it up with the Chief Minister. Hundreds of people are working in this segment and they all are out of work because of this action from the police. The government has always taken a stand to protect the street vendors. We will be taking up this matter with the chief ministers office and hoping that we will be able to resume operations immediately, said Shahul Hameed. He said that the residents associations who are raising these complaints dont care about the livelihood of hundreds of people. MLA V K Prasanth said that street food vendors encroaching public roads cannot be entertained in every stretch in the capital. We have discussed this issue in the recent district development committee and unchecked vending is not ideal for the capital. Many youngsters are venturing into this business without getting license or registration. There should be some kind of regulation, said V K Prasanth. He said that the city corporation has identified 125 vending zones in many parts of the capital. The town vending committee at the corporation will soon take necessary action and shift all authorised vendors to designated zones and free up the streets, he added.
Jonty Rhodes enjoys cricket with local players on Arthunkal beach
KOCHI: Be it a proper cricket pitch or the sandy shores of a beach, picking up the bat and knocking off a few boundaries and sixes is not a big thing for ace cricketers like former Test and one-day international South African middle-order batsman Jonty Rhodes. The cricketer, regarded as one of the greatest fielders of all time and the first South African cricketer to take 100 ODI catches, was in his element when he joined a group of local cricket players at Marari Beach in Alappuzha recently. The cricketer was here on a private visit along with his family. He arrived at Marari in Alappuzha on September 27 and went back after a stay of one week. He stayed with his family on a houseboat and visited many tourist places in the district, said Raju Marari, executive member of Kerala-HATS, an association of homestays in the state. Rhodes went on backwater cruises and visited several notable attractions, including the historic Alappuzha Lighthouse, Krishnapuram Palace, and famous temples like the Ambalapuzha Sree Krishna Temple. According to Raju Marari, on one of his outings, Rhodes came across a group of local youth playing cricket and, after watching them for a while, decided to join them. It was a joyous occasion for the players and also the cricketer, who got to relive his cricketing days.
Minor rescued at Ambala Cantt railway station, her alleged rapist-abductor held
Top Maoist leaders remain prime targets for forces in Chhattisgarh; nine leaders eliminated in 2025
RAIPUR: The ongoing anti-Maoist operation after the monsoon has been intensified with a renewed warning conveyed to the top Maoist leaders, asking them to give up arms and surrender, or else be prepared to be eliminated. The Chhattisgarh police and the Central forces affirmed that the sustained offensive against the left-wing extremists inflicted massive setback to the banned outfit, owing to which the Maoist leaders evidently remain fully aware that there is no safe place for them anywhere in the affected Bastar region. Bastar Inspector General of police, Sundarraj P, claimed that they consistently get solid information about the locations of top Maoist leaders, and they can be eliminated anytime by security forces. They can either surrender and join the mainstream or get killed in the ongoing decisive operations by the troops, the IG told TNIE . Despite adverse weather and tough geographical conditions besides other challenges, the forces are vigorously engaged in strategically planned anti-Maoist campaigns, keeping in mind the March 31, 2026, deadline set by the Union Home Minister Amit Shah. Most of the Central Committee (CC) members, who are only next to the Politburo of CPI (Maoist) in hierarchy, remained active in the Dandakaranya Special Zonal Committee during the last three decades, during which they waged a war against the state and the forces. Many of these CC members were cited to be the masterminds of numerous violent incidents, even leading to casualties of several jawans and the killing of innocent civilians. 71 Maoists surrender in Chhattisgarhs Dantewada in a single day following 'Lon Varratu' campaign appeal Police believe the remaining top 10 Maoist leaders are active in Bastar and adjoining border states. The CC members carry huge bounty on their heads in various states of the country.In the year 2025, the forces eliminated the general secretary of CPI Maoist Basava Raju alias Nambala Keshav Rao and eight CC members. The Bastar police also shared the names of the remaining top 10 Maoist leaders who the police believe are active in Bastar and adjoining border states. They includefour Polit Bureau membersGanpathi alias Mupalla Laxman Rao alias Ramanna, Malojula Venugopal Rao alias Bhupathi, Devji alias Devanna alias Sudarshan, and Mishir Besra alias Bhaskar. Additionally, six CC members are Ganesh Uike, Anal Da alias Marandi, Malla Raji Reddy alias Murli, Ramder alias Majjidev, Madvi Hidma alias Deva alias Sainath, and Pullari Prasad Rao alias Malkapuram alias Bhaskar. The inhospitable rugged terrain of Abujhmad, spread over 4000 sq km in the district of Narayanpur and touching Bijapur, Dantewada, and Kanker was once the common address for most of the top Maoist leaders for decades. The dense forests earlier provided safe havens and hideouts for armed Maoist cadres and their top leadership. During the last three years, the Maoists' strongholds have been significantly weakened due to the establishment of several security camps and ongoing anti-Maoist operations, besides the development initiatives by the government in the region. The forces are swiftly acting on intelligence inputs about the movement of Maoist cadres, even in the dense forested terrain. The polit bureau CC members are bestowed with key responsibilities, different organisational roles, besides military activities in the banned outfit.
Tovino Thomas makes first call as CM Pinarayi Vijayan launches Citizen Connect Centre
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The first call to states newly launched CM with Me Citizen Connect Centre came from actor Tovino Thomas. Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, who inaugurated the facility at Vellayambalam here on Monday, personally attended the call, with Tovino conveying his best wishes and describing the initiative as a welcome step. The chief minister thanked the actor and said his support would inspire more people to use the platform. The chief minister later attended three more calls during the launch, including one from a beneficiary who thanked the government for allotting a house and requested a K-Fone internet connection. Vijayan immediately directed officials to take steps to resolve the issue. Launching the project, the chief minister said CM with Me is a unique citizen connect system aimed at bridging the communication gap between the public and the government. This is a scheme that makes people partners in governance. If you call CM with Me with a complaint or suggestion, you will be contacted back and informed of the action taken within 48 hours, he said. The centre, set up in the old Air India office at Vellayambalam. The chief minister said its strength lies in transparency, accountability, and direct communication. In a democratic system, the ultimate responsibility of governance lies with the people. CM with Me ensures that the people are not just beneficiaries of development but active participants in shaping Keralas future, he said. The centre will have two layers of operation. The first layer will function as a 24-hour receiving centre capable of handling 10 calls simultaneously. The second layer will focus on departmental redressal.
CM launches Citizen Connect Centre
The centre, established at Vellayambalam, will facilitate citizen feedback, grievances redressal, and public communication. The public can share their opinions, suggestions, and complaints through the toll-free number 1800-425-6789
Naxal leadership shrinks to 13 as security forces tighten grip
NEW DELHI: A day after Union Minister Amit Shah rejected the Naxalites ceasefire offer , a dossier prepared by the security and intelligence agencies revealed that after a series of arrests, surrenders and encounters, the top leadership of the Left Wing Extremists has now been dwindling with only 13 figures in its apex body - four members of the Politburo and nine members of the Central Committee. According to officials, the goal of eliminating armed Naxals by March 31, 2026, could be met much earlier, possibly by the end of this year. However, they added that a few of the members of People Liberation Guerrilla Army (PLGA) are still at large and they might try to escalate violence, but they too would meet the same fate. The dossier states that Madvi Hidma, the most-wanted Maoist leader believed to be heading the outfit, has been unable to maintain contact with the remaining top leadership. At its peak by mid-2000, the Politburo and the Central Committee of the CPI (Maoist) had over two dozen members, who provided ideological base and formulated strategy for armed struggle, and kept the LWE network operative in more than 10 states of the country. But over the years, with better intelligence gathering and effective anti-Naxal operations by security forces, their leadership and support base have eroded, officials said. Why cant Centre accept Maoists ceasefire offer? asks CPIs D Raja Now with the elimination of high-value Naxal leaders in Chhattisgarh, Odisha and Jharkhand, including general secretary Nambala Keshava Rao alias Basavaraju, Chalapati and Modem Balakrishna, only a few aged senior operatives are surviving, they said. The only remaining challenge is the PLGA, if security forces neutralise it in the coming days, India could, for the first time in about 60 years, be free of the Naxal chain of command. Senior leaders such as Cherukuri Rajkumar alias Azad (killed in 2010), Kishanji alias Koteshwar Rao (killed in 2011) and Kottam Sudarshan (died in 2023). The year 2025 saw major successes on the part of the security forces, as Basavaraju alias Nambala Keshava Rao, Chalapati and Modem Balakrishna were among those killed. The Politburo of CPI (Maoist) has now been struggling to find ideological leaders. Only a few like Muppala Laxman Rao alias Ganapati, the acting General Secretary; Misir Besra, a senior ideologue; Mallojula Venugopal alias Bhupathi, an influential strategist; and Malla Raji Reddy alias Sangram are surviving and trying to continue with their activities in the Red Zone, said a senior security official. The officials, quoting the dossier, said that there are currently around 8001,000 armed cadres active, which is far less than the 6,000 to 8,000 nearly a decade ago. But still they can be a potent threat, particularly in dense forest areas- Abujhmaad and Bastar, where the terrain is to their advantage, the official said, while adding that, but still, operations based on actionable intelligence might give the desired results.
Five killed in collision between two cars in Kurukshetra
KURUKSHETRA: Five people were killed in a head-on collision between two cars on the KaithalKurukshetra road, around 8 kilometres from here, on Monday morning, police said. Station House Officer (SHO) of Adarsh Police Station, Dinesh Singh, stated that the accident occurred around 7 am near Ghararsi village and is believed to have been caused by overspeeding. The impact was so severe that both vehicles were completely mangled. Locals had to cut open the car doors to rescue those trapped inside, Singh said. One of the cars, carrying six passengers from Bubka village in Ambala, sustained significant damage in the collision. Five of its occupants died on the spot. The deceased were identified as: Praveen, son of Swaraj Pawan and Rajendra, sons of Bal Kishan Urmila, wife of Pawan Suman, wife of Sanjay Another passenger, 18-year-old Vanshika, suffered serious injuries and is currently undergoing treatment. Four people travelling in the other car were also injured. They were identified as: Santosh (45), wife of Dharampal and resident of Papanawa Jati Road Rishipal (55), son of Karm Singh Leela Devi (52), wife of Rishipal Praveen (40), son of Jita Ram The group was reportedly en route to Mulana in Ambala for medical treatment. It is learnt that Leela Devi had recently undergone surgery and was being taken for a follow-up consultation. The bodies of the deceased have been sent for post-mortem examination, while the injured have been admitted to Lok Nayak Jai Prakash Narayan Hospital for treatment, police added.
Another inmate flees from Central Jail Ambala
Another inmate flee from Central Jail Ambala, climb jail wall with help of electricity wire
An inmate, Ajay Kumar, facing serious charges, escaped from Central Jail Ambala on Saturday, marking the second security lapse in 45 days. He scaled an 18-foot electricity pole and used a wire to cross the boundary wall, exploiting power cuts. Two officials were suspended.
Crime Branch expands probe as Pallippuram man confesses to long-standing murder
The CB believes Bindhu was murdered in May 2006. Sebastian told investigators that the murder was carried out to extort 1.5 lakh, which Bindhu had received as an advance for the sale of her property in Ambalappuzha
Sikhs observe 350th Shaheedi Shatabdi Nagar Kirtan Yatra in Hyderabad
Hyderabad: Hyderabad witnessed an overwhelming display of devotion and reverence during the Shaheedi Nagar Kirtan, dedicated to the 350th martyrdom anniversary of Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahibji on Friday, September 26. The Nagar Kirtan Yatra departed from the Gurdwara Saheb Barambala, located in Kishanbagh towards Vijayawada in Andhra Pradesh on Friday. The event was attended by 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 .
Man assaulted at Saidapet railway station dies; one arrested
The Mambalam GRP registered the case after officials from the Government Royapettah Hospital alerted them about the death of the man, who was admitted to the hospital with severe injuries from Saidapet railway station earlier this week.
Chandigarh Diary | Haryanas Anil Vij drops minister from his X bio
Haryana minister Anil Vij has dropped the word minister from his bio on social media platform X. Earlier, his bio read Anil Vij Minister Haryana, India, but it now says Anil Vij Ambala Cantt Haryana, India. Vij said he does not want to gain popularity or followers because of his ministerial post. He added that his followers grew faster without the minister tag and that Vij itself is a tag now. About a year ago, he also removed the tag from his Facebook account. In the past, Vij has openly criticised his own party leaders, accusing them of running a parallel BJP in Ambala Cantonment. Jakhar, Mundian in war of words post Modi visit Punjab BJP president Sunil Jakhar and Punjab cabinet minister Hardeep Singh Mundian clashed after Prime Minister Narendra Modis visit to flood-hit areas and his announcement of a Rs 1,600 crore relief package. Jakhar said he was not aware of Mundians political rank or career. I know state agriculture minister Gurmeet Singh Khudian, but I had not heard of Mundian until he attended PM Modis meeting, he remarked. In response, Mundian accused Jakhar of having a feudal mindset. He said he had respected Jakhar as a wise leader, but was shocked by his comment. The exchange has added to the ongoing political mudslinging in Punjab. Rahul Gandhis gift for six-year-olda new cycle A six-year-old boy from flood-hit Amritsar has received a new bicycle, promised to him by senior Congress leader Rahul Gandhi. During his September 15 visit to Ghonewal village in Ajnala, Gandhi met Amritpal Singh, who was crying after his cycle rusted in floodwaters. Gandhi hugged him, called him a brave boy, and promised him a replacement. On Monday, a team from the Amritsar Congress Committee, led by Sourabh Madaan Mithu, delivered the cycle on Gandhis behalf. They also connected Amritpal with Gandhi through a video call, where the boy and his family thanked him for the kind gesture. Harpreet Bajwa Our correspondent in Chandigarh hsbajwa73@gmail.com
Saatvik, GK Energy, Jinkushal Launch IPOs to Raise 1,480 Crore
Ambala-based Saatvik Green Energy announced a 900 crore initial public offering in the price band of 442465 per equity share of face value 2
Maoists announces temporary suspension of armed struggle, ask govt to declare 'ceasefire'
RAIPUR: The outlawed CPI (Maoist), in a purported statement, has announced a temporary suspension of its armed struggle to facilitate peace talks, but has asked the government to declare a one-month 'ceasefire' and halt security operations to initiate the process. Reacting to the development, the Chhattisgarh government said it was verifying the authenticity of the statement, which surfaced on social media on Tuesday. In the purported statement issued by Maoists, the rebels have appealed to the government to share their decision on the issue via the Internet and government news media, including radio. The two-page statement, dated August 15, was issued in the name of Abhay, a spokesperson of the central committee of Maoists, and came nearly four months after the killing of Nambala Keshav Rao alias Basavaraju , general secretary of the Communist Party of India (Maoist), in an encounter with security forces in Chhattisgarh's Bastar region. Deputy Chief Minister Vijay Sharma, who holds the home portfolio, told reporters on Tuesday that the authenticity of the statement was being verified and the best way for Maoists is to surrender and avail rehabilitation benefits. The term 'ceasefire' is highly objectionable as there is no war-like situation that requires one. In a democracy, talks cannot be conditional, yet once again, they have set preconditions. However, after verifying the statement, discussions will be held within the government, he said. INTERVIEW | Basavaraju killing a success, but gun cant kill ideology The Maoists, in the statement, said they had proposed a ceasefire to the government earlier, asking for one month to consult with the highest leadership comrades of the outfit. But unfortunately, the central government did not express its favourable stand on it. Rather, it has further intensified its operations, the statement said. To take forward the process of peace talks that was started on the initiative of the party's general secretary (late Basavaraju), we are making it clear that in view of the changed global and national circumstances, as well as the continuous requests being made by the country's Prime Minister, Home Minister and senior police officers to give up arms and join the mainstream, we have decided to shun arms, it said. We have decided to declare a temporary halt to the armed struggle. We are making it clear that in the future, we will fight shoulder to shoulder with all political parties and organisations fighting for the public cause as far as possible, the statement added. The CPI (Maoist) offered direct talks with the Centre. We are ready to talk to the Union Home Minister or persons appointed by him or a delegation on this issue. But we will have to inform the party about our changed opinion. Therefore, our request to the Central Government is to give us one month to consult with our comrades working in different states across the country and those imprisoned, it said. We are also ready to exchange views with the government on this subject, primarily through video call. Therefore, we are making it clear once again that (the government should) immediately declare a formal ceasefire for a month, stop search operations and take forward the peace process, it said. The statement also carried a note, saying it was issued late due to several reasons. Reacting to the statement, Inspector General of Police, Bastar Range Sundarraj P told PTI that police have taken note of the press release issued in the name of the CPI (Maoist) Central Committee regarding the laying down of arms and the prospect of peace talks. The authenticity of the release is being verified and its contents are under careful examination, he added. It is reiterated that any decision on engagement or dialogue with the CPI (Maoist) lies solely with the government, which will take an appropriate call after due consideration and assessment of the situation and circumstances, the IPS officer added. 'Surrender or get eliminated like Basavaraju': Bastar top cop's warning to Maoist leaders
SC refuses to entertain plea by kin of slain Maoist leader Basavaraju
New Delhi: The Supreme Court on Monday refused to entertain a plea by the kin of top Maoist leader Nambala Keshav Rao, who was killed in an encounter in Chhattisgarh in May, over the handing over of his body for performing final rites. Rao, widely known as Basavaraju, along with 26 others was killed in 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 .
'Parallel BJP In Ambala': Anil Vij's Claim Sparks Buzz Of Internal Rift In Haryana
Anil Vij sparked speculation about an internal rift within the BJP-led Haryana government by alleging that a parallel BJP was operating in Ambala.
Dalit leader from Telangana appointed as Maoist Partys general secretary
Hyderabad: The Communist Party of India (Maoist) has appointed Thippiri Tirupathi alias Devuji as the general secretary of the banned outfit. The move follows the killing of former chief of the Maoist party Nambala Keshava Rao alias Basavaraj, along with 27 guerrillas in Narayanpur district of Chhattisgarh on May 21. The Maoist party has also 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 .
Thippiri Tirupati Appointed as CPI (Maoist) Central Committee Secretary
Karimnagar native, who joined the Maoist movement in 1983, takes charge after Nambala Kesava Raos death; carries 1 crore bounty and linked to 2010 Dantewada attack.
Fire Breaks Out In Vishal Mega Mart's Ambala Outlet | Watch Video
Firefighting operations are currently underway, as per ANI report.
Kavya, Shambala and Disciplined catch the eye
Schools across India face closures this week due to a blend of festivals and weather concerns. Delhi-NCR observes Eid-e-Milad-un-Nabi on September 5th, while Kerala celebrates Onam. Teacher's Day may see brief school events. Punjab and Himachal Pradesh extend holidays due to weather, and Haryana's Ambala and Jhajjar districts are closed due to rain warnings.
Centre Clears 40km Baramulla-Uri Rail Line, Qazigund-Badgam Doubling To Boost J&K Connectivity
The planning group also cleared two capacity expansion projects in Punjab and Haryana---third line between LudhianaJalandhar Cantt and fourth line between Ambala CanttSahnewal
CHANDIGARH : A fresh spell of heavy rains compounded the flood situation in Punjab with the death toll rising to 37 on Wednesday, while crops on 1.75 lakh hectares of land in 23 districts got damaged by the worst deluge in the state since 1988. Rescue and relief operations are underway on a war footing as help poured in from several quarters for over 3.55 lakh people in 1,655 villages, desperately looking for succour. Following heavy rains, an alert has been sounded in Rupnagar and Patiala districts, urging people to remain vigilant, while all schools, colleges and universities have been closed till September 7. With rains refusing to relent in Himachal Pradesh and Jammu and Kashmir, the already swollen Sutlej, Beas and Ravi rivers originating in the Himalayas and seasonal rivulets inundated towns, villages and agricultural lands, upending normal life. The Punjab government released Rs 71 crore as an immediate relief and rehabilitation measure, with the AAP dispensation reiterating that it was committed to compensating people for their losses. Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan will visit the flood-hit areas in Punjab on Thursday to review the extent of crop damage. AAP national convener Arvind Kejriwal, along with Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, will also assess the flood damage on the same day. He will take stock of the relief work being carried out in the state and interact with the affected people, said the party. Rains in Punjab have aggravated the flood situation. The water level in the Bhakra dam at 6 am was 1,677.84 feet, against its maximum capacity of 1,680 feet. The inflow in the dam was 86,822 cusecs while the outflow was 65,042 cusecs. Punjab declared disaster-hit as floods submerge 3.75 lakh acres; 30 dead, 3.55 lakh affected In view of heavy rains in Himachal Pradesh, the water discharge from the dam was being increased from 65,000 cusecs to 75,000 cusecs, officials said and warned that Nangal's villages may be inundated. Revenue, Rehabilitation and Disaster Management Minister Hardeep Singh Mundian said the state is reeling under one of the worst floods in recent decades, with widespread crop devastation reported across 1,75,216 hectares of farmland. Gurdaspur, Amritsar, Mansa, Ferozepur and Fazilka are among the worst-hit districts, accounting for the bulk of the agricultural losses, he said. The minister said that 37 lives have been lost across 12 districts, while three persons remain missing in Pathankot. The highest fatalities have been reported in Hoshiarpur, where seven lives have been lost, followed by six in Pathankot, five in Barnala, four each in Amritsar and Ludhiana, three each in Bathinda and Mansa, and one each in Gurdaspur, Patiala, Rupnagar, SAS Nagar and Sangrur. The flood-related data is from August 1 to September 3. Gurdaspur alone suffered crop damage over 40,169 hectares, followed by Mansa 24,967 hectares, Amritsar 23,000 hectares, Fazilka 17,786 hectares, Ferozepur 17,620 hectares, and Kapurthala 14,934 hectares, among others. The Rupnagar district administration has asked people living near the Sutlej river to stay on alert in the wake of an increase in the discharge of water from the Bhakra dam. Punjab Cabinet Minister Harjot Bains appealed to Sri Anandpur Sahib residents living on riverbanks and low-lying areas to shift to safer places or relief camps. He visited over two dozen flood-affected villages and personally oversaw the evacuation of families stranded along the Sutlej river. Punjab Governor Gulab Chand Kataria visited the flood-ravaged areas in Pathankot district, while AAP leader Manish Sisodia visited the flood-hit areas in Tarn Taran district. AAP Rajya Sabha MP Raghav Chadha announced providing Rs 3.25 crore from his Local Area Development Scheme fund for relief work. MP Sandeep Pathak visited flood-hit villages in Ferozepur district and released Rs 5 crore from the MPLADS funds for the affected villages in the border district. Rajya Sabha MP Balbir Singh Seechewal also announced a grant of Rs 50 lakh from his discretionary funds to support the affected people. Relief and rescue operations by the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), Army, Border Security Force, Punjab Police and district authorities are underway in the affected areas, officials said. Meanwhile, the Patiala district administration issued an alert for villages near the Ghaggar river in the Rajpura sub-division in the wake of heavy rains in the catchment areas. According to officials, the water level of the Tangri river has risen close to the danger mark in Ambala and is expected to rise in Patiala following heavy rains in Ambala and Kala Amb.
IMD issues red alert for Northwest India
NEW DELHI: In anticipation of extremely heavy rainfall and thunderstorms, the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a red alert for Northwest India, including Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, West Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, and Delhi . IMD predicts the rain intensity levels may exceed 210 mm in certain areas over the next three days. It has also predicted an imminent risk of flash floods in several watersheds and neighborhoods of Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, and Haryana. Residents are advised to remain vigilant over the next 24 hours as severe weather conditions are expected. In Himachal Pradesh, the districts most at risk include Chamba, Kangra, Kinnaur, Kullu, Mandi, Shimla, Sirmaur, and Solan. In Uttarakhand, the vulnerable districts are Chamoli, Champawat, Dehradun, Nainital, Pauri Garhwal, Pithoragarh, Rudraprayag, Tehri Garhwal, and Uttarkashi. The plains of Haryana, Chandigarh, and Delhispecifically Ambala, Panchkula, and Yamunanagarare also threatened by potential flash floods. The IMD has also projected heavy rainfall in Konkan, Goa, Madhya Maharashtra, the Gujarat region, and Coastal Karnataka during the first week of September. Furthermore, a fresh low-pressure area is expected to form over the Northwest Bay of Bengal, off the coast of Odisha, and will move across Odisha, Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh, and Gujarat over the next 3-4 days. This will likely lead to increased monsoon rainfall in Odisha from September 2 to 4, in Chhattisgarh and Madhya Pradesh from September 3 to 5, and in Gujarat and parts of North Maharashtra from September 4 to 7. Due to these dangerous predictions, the IMD has advised fisherfolk to avoid venturing into the Arabian Sea from September 1 to 6. Lake burst behind Uttarakhand flash flood, MHA told In the past 24 hours, many areas of Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Punjab, West Rajasthan, and Telangana recorded extremely heavy rainfall, exceeding 210 mm. Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, and East Rajasthan received between 120-200 mm of rain. The heavy rainfall has led to widespread flooding in Punjab, resulting in losses to kharif crops. The Union Minister of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare has held a review meeting with senior officials to assess the damage caused by the heavy rainfall and discuss compensation measures. Earlier, the IMD's monthly outlook indicated that the country is expected to receive normal to above-normal rainfall in September, with a delayed withdrawal of the monsoon. Typically, the monsoon begins to withdraw in the first week of September and is expected to be fully withdrawn by September 30. The IMD has noted a new trend in September, characterized by more rainfall and a later withdrawal. So far, the country has experienced 6% more rainfall than normal, while the East and Northeast regions have faced approximately 18% below-normal rainfall. In contrast, the Northwest region has been the wettest, with about 27% above-normal rainfall recorded in the first three months of the monsoon. Flash flood strands 189 tourists in Uttarakhand's Valley of Flowers
Many parts of Haryana lashed by rains, more showers predicted; state on alert
Haryana experienced heavy rainfall, prompting authorities to issue alerts. River levels rose, leading to the release of water from the Hathnikund barrage. Officials are monitoring the situation closely in vulnerable districts. Field officers are on high alert, and leave has been restricted. Ambala faced waterlogging, and rivers overflowed, potentially damaging crops. The government is prepared to handle any flood situation.
Punjab recorded 74% excess, Haryana received 32% more than normal rain in August
CHANDIGARH: In August, Punjab received 253.7 mm of rain, the highest the state has witnessed in the past 25 years, while Haryana recorded 194.5 mm of rain against an average of 147.7 mm for the month. Punjab received deficient rainfall multiple times in the past couple of decades, but this year it recorded the highest rainfall figures for August in the last 25 years, the Met department stated. Punjab recorded 253.7 mm rainfall in August, which was 74 per cent more than the months normal of 146.2 mm. The neighbouring Haryana received 194.5 mm of rain in August against an average of 147.7 mm for the month, which was 32 per cent in excess. Both states received excess rain in August only five times in the past 25 years, including this year. Heavy rains lash several parts of Punjab, Haryana 18 out of the total 23 districts in Punjab recorded excess rain, while a few districts like Patiala and Fatehgarh Sahib recorded deficient rainfall. Meanwhile, Gurdaspur recorded 577.5 mm rainfall, 181 per cent more than normal of 205.3 mm; Pathankot received 944.2 mm of rain in August which was 152 per cent in excess than the normal of 375.2 mm; while Tarn Taran recorded 208 mm of rain against the normal of 87.1 per cent in August, which was 139 per cent in excess; Ferozepur received 170.6 mm of rain against a normal of 74.5 mm, which was 129 per cent in excess; Fazilka recorded 146.8 mm of rain as against 68.1 mm, a rise of 115 per cent; Hoshiarpur received 360.6 mm of rain in August, 74 per cent in excess of the normal figures of 207.6 mm; and Amritsar received 226.8 mm of rain in August against a normal of 162.4 mm, which was 40 per cent more. 18 out of the 22 districts in Haryana recorded excess rain in the month of August while four districts including Bhiwani and Ambala, recorded deficient rain. In Haryana excess rainfall was recorded in Fatehabad (252 per cent), Hisar (68 per cent), Faridabad (31 per cent) and Gurugram (24 per cent). Meanwhile Chandigarh (Union Territory), the common capital of Punjab and Haryana, recorded 308.5 mm rainfall in August as against the normal of 248.8 mm which was only 8 per cent more.
In Haryana, warnings have been issued for Karnal, Indri, Thanesar, Kaithal, Nilokheri, Radaur, Barara, Jagadhri, Chhachhrauli, Narayangarh, Panchkula, Guhla, Pehowa, Shahabad, Ambala, and Kalka. Chandigarh is also covered under the red alert.
YAMUNANAGAR: Incessant rains over the past few days have led to an increase in the water levels in the Yamuna river on Monday, prompting authorities to open the floodgates of the Hathnikund barrage. An official of the irrigation department here said the flow of water in the Yamuna at the Hathnikund barrage in the district rose to 3.29 lakh cusecs, the highest water flow recorded during this monsoon season. Any flow exceeding 2.5 lakh cusecs is classified as a high flood, Vijay Garg, executive engineer of the Irrigation Department, said. Water released from the barrage typically takes around 48 hours to reach Delhi. Officials said an alert has been sounded and a strict vigil is being kept on villages falling in the areas of the Yamuna in the district and some other districts. Many places in Haryana on Monday were lashed by rains, including Panchkula, Yamunanagar and Ambala. Taking note of the spate in rivers in the region due to heavy rains in their catchment areas, Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini had said on Sunday that his government is alert and prepared to deal with any flood situation. Saini had on Friday instructed all deputy commissioners in the state to monitor areas along rivers in their respective jurisdictions. They were told to prepare a concrete action plan in advance for villages, settlements and colonies located near riverbanks. Several districts in neighbouring Punjab are also gripped by floods as Sutlej, Beas and Ravi rivers and seasonal rivulets are in spate following heavy rainfall in their catchment areas in Himachal Pradesh and Jammu and Kashmir.
10.45 crore sanctioned for construction of roads in Ambalappuzha Assembly constituency
V.L.A Ambala, a SEBI-registered research analyst expects Nifty 50 to test 23,000-23,700 in the near-term amid weak momentum. She listed CDSL among her top five stocks to buy for the next one year.
2 Bishnoi Gang Operatives Arrested In Punjab, Pistols, Ammunition Recovered
Anti Gangster Task Force (AGTF) Punjab has arrested two most-wanted Lawrence Bishnoi gang operatives from the Patiala-Ambala Highway near village Shambhu in Patiala, Director General of Police Punjab, Gaurav Yadav, said on Thursday.
Punjab Police arrests two operatives of Lawrence Bishnoi gang
In a major breakthrough, Anti Gangster Task Force (#AGTF) Punjab, arrests two most-wanted Lawrence Bishnoi gang operatives from #Patiala-#Ambala Highway near Village Shambhu, says DGP Gaurav Yadav on X
Justice N. Anand Venkatesh dismisses a writ petition filed by a 71-year-old devotee residing at West Mambalam in Chennai
ACMWSSB exercise onPonnambalam Salai inK.K.Nagar has a ripple effect
Residents want this work to be expedited
ATFL offers affordable housing for Ambala Cantt residents
Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Aug 6: ATFL (Herman City), the first and only approved and planned township is offering the affordable housing for the residents of Ambala Cantt. The project is developed in an area of 50 Acres at Ambala Cantt, Sector 42, Ambala-Jagadhari National Highway under Deen Dayal Jan Awas Yojana. The seed of this dream is being implanted by ATFL (Monga Infratechs). The project is the first organized township of Ambala Cantt that has 8 parks, 4 commercial centres, [] The post ATFL offers affordable housing for Ambala Cantt residents appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Man Dances at Friends Funeral to Fulfil His Last Wish in MP
In a moving tribute, Ambalal Prajapat honours his late friends heartfelt request to celebrate his final journey with dance, not sorrow
Leopard Captured at Golconda After 22-Day Hunt
The captured animal was initially shifted to the Nehru Zoological Park around 10 am on Thursday. After zoo authorities confirmed it was in good health, it was transported and released in the Kambalapalli range.
New Delhi-Katra Vande Bharat: The Train For Your Next Vaishno Devi Visit | Complete Guide
New Delhi-Katra Vande Bharat: The cities connected by the services are New Delhi, Ambala, Ludhiana, Pathankot, Udhampur, Kathua, Jammu Tawi, and Katra
Quadcopter loses connection during training sortie, falls in open area in Ambala
The Army authorities and Air Force personnel also reached there. They took the drone into their possession
Cong. slams removal of plaque from childrens park in Payyambalam
50-year-old remanded in alleged rape case in Kasaragod
The alleged assaults reportedly took place in 2022 within the Ambalathara police station limits
Ambalappuzha MLA Merit Award presented
People will put an end to dynasty rule of DMK in 2026 Assembly election: Edappadi K. Palaniswami
Addressing a gathering of party workers following a roadshow on Thiruchitrambalam Road in Vanur in Villupuram district, he says the people are disillusioned with the ruling party
ED raids 11 locations in Punjab, Haryana in dunki route money laundering probe
CHANDIGARH: The Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Wednesday conducted searches at eleven locations across Punjab and Haryana as part of an ongoing money-laundering investigation into a 'dunki route' case involving illegal immigrants who were deported by the United States earlier this year. Sources said that the Jalandhar zonal office of the apex agency carried out search operations under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) in Amritsar, Sangrur, Patiala, and Moga in Punjab, and Ambala, Kurukshetra, and Karnal in Haryana. The EDs investigation is based on 19 FIRs registered by police in both Punjab and Haryana against several travel agents and middlemen. As part of the probe, the agency also raided the residence of Bhartiya Kisan Union (Totewala) leader Sukh Gill in Jalandhar. The searches were conducted at premises linked to individuals and entities whose names surfaced during the course of the investigation, said sources. According to officials, around 131 youths from Punjab were deported from the United States in February this year. They were flown back to India in handcuffs aboard US military aircraft, triggering widespread public outrage. Sources further revealed that the travel agents allegedly duped aspiring migrants out of rS 4555 lakh each. Many of these agents never met the victims in person and operated through local contacts. The youth were promised legitimate overseas placements but were instead pushed to take the illegal dunki route, passing through multiple countries. Investigators found that these donkers and their associates exerted pressure on the migrants and their families for additional payments while the youths were in transit. It is learnt that the ED has recorded statements from several deportees, which have helped map the networks operational structure and identify new suspects. The deportees were asked to submit all relevant documents, including bank account details of the travel agents who received payments. A thorough investigation was launched under PMLA as the case involves significant illegal financial transactions, said an official on condition of anonymity.
JALANDHAR: The Enforcement Directorate on Wednesday conducted searches in multiple cities of Punjab and Haryana as part of a money laundering investigation into a 'donkey route' case related to illegal Indian immigrants who were deported by the US this year , official sources said. Offices and houses of suspects and agents in at least 11 cities in the two states , Amritsar, Sangrur, Patiala and Moga in Punjab and Ambala, Kurukshetra and Karnal in Haryana are being raided under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), the sources said. The money laundering case stems from 17 FIRs registered by Punjab and Haryana police departments against the travel/visa agents and middlemen who cheated various persons willing to go to the US illegally, they said. A number of Indians from these two states and few others were deported onboard US military planes in February this year and the agency later recorded the statements of few deportees. These statements and some linked investigation threw up the names of certain suspects and they are being searched, the sources said. 682 Indians deported from US since January, majority had attempted to enter illegally: MEA The agents used to arget innocent persons who were willing to go abroad and on the false promise of sending them to the US through legal channels and flights they used to charge an amount ranging from Rs 45-50 lakh per candidate. However, the agents used to dupe these people as they were sent through illegal routes (donkey route) by crossing the borders of many countries illegally through dangerous/jungle routes under the influence of 'donkers' and mafias, the sources said. These agents, in collusion with 'donkers' and mafia used to create a hreatening situation for the aspiring travellers and their families that they were forced to cough up more and more money, the sources said.
ED conducts searches across Punjab and Haryana in Donkey Route case
The searches were carried out in Punjabs Amritsar, Sangrur, Patiala, and Moga; and Ambala, Kurukshetra, and Karnal in Haryana, as part of the probe into money-laundering angle
ED Raids In Punjab, Haryana In Donkey Route Case
Jalandhar, Jul 9: The Enforcement Directorate on Wednesday conducted searches in multiple cities of Punjab and Haryana as part of a money laundering investigation into a donkey route case related to illegal Indian immigrants who were deported by the US this year, official sources said. Offices and houses of suspects and agents in at least 11 cities in the two states Amritsar, Sangrur, Patiala and Moga in Punjab and Ambala, Kurukshetra and Karnal in Haryana are being raided under [] The post ED Raids In Punjab, Haryana In Donkey Route Case appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Panic grips Ambalamugal after underground cables catch fire
Nayarambalam panchayat gets additional 10 lakh for geobag installation
Madras High Court refuses to reject election petition against AIADMK MLA Natham Viswanathan
Justice P.T. Asha dismisses a plea by the AIADMK MLA to reject the election petition filed against him by DMK candidate M.A. Andiambalam
Chandigarh diary | All official work only in Hindi: Haryana Edu Min
Haryana Education Minister Mahipal Dhandas directions to his department to conduct all official work and formal communications in Hindi have become a talking point in government circles. While Danda has issued these orders, the officials in his department are struggling to implement them. The problem is finding the right words in Hindi. This announcement follows a directive from the Directorate of Higher Education issued on June 10. Even I dont know English, and 90% of the people in Haryana dont understand it either. I have ordered all work in the education department to be done in Hindi, the minister said recently. Haryana engineers dressing down over dress He shorted the power supply over a pair of shorts and paid a price for it. Executive Engineer Harish Goel of Uttar Haryana Bijli Vitran Nigam, posted in Yamunanagar, was denied entry to a popular club in Ambala Cantonment because he was wearing shorts. The clubs rules prohibit them. Peeved, he snapped the power supply to the club. Shailender Khanna, the president of Central Phoenix Club, submitted a complaint to Haryana Power and Energy Minister Anil Vij. He is also the MLA from Ambala Cantonment. Vij recommended Goels suspension, saying such behaviour from a public servant was unacceptable Rijijus dress-and-dance in Himachal Pradesh Union Minister of Parliamentary Affairs and Minority Affairs Kiren Rijiju spent a memorable three days travelling to remote tribal areas in Lahaul and Spiti of Himachal Pradesh. He donned the traditional dress and even took part in the Nati dance with the locals. BJP MP from Mandi, actor Kangana Ranaut, and local Congress MLA Anuradha Rana joined him. In a series of posts, Rijiju wrote on X, Love and affection of Spiti Valley is mesmerising! Launched various projects at Kaza, furthering the vision of PM @narendramodi ji to develop the border areas! In another post, he wrote, We joined (sic) with Kinnauri folk songs & dances! Harpreet Bajwa Our correspondent in Chandigarh hsbajwa73@gmail.com
Transformative Governance, Security, Collective Spirit
The past decade has been a testament to Indias remarkable transformation under the decisive and visionary leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. As our nation completes eleven years of this transformative journey, India stands significantly taller on global platforms, having achieved unprecedented progress across a multitude of sectors at home. Indias projected ascent to become the worlds fourth-largest economy by 2025, based on nominal GDP, is a clear reflection of the success of landmark policies, such as Make in India, and GST. The infrastructure sector has witnessed unparalleled growth, with the construction of nearly 50,000 km of national highways, including engineering marvels like the Delhi-Mumbai Expressway. The PM Gati Shakti National Master Plan is meticulously integrating infrastructure development across various sectors. Rural India has undergone a remarkable transformation, with nearly 100% electrification, bringing light and opportunity to countless households. Our renewable energy capacity has roughly tripled. The Digital India revolution has expanded financial inclusion. The Aadhaar-linked Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) mechanism has saved an astounding Rs 2.7 lakh crore by eliminating leakages and ensuring that aid reaches its intended beneficiaries directly. The Unified Payments Interface (UPI) system, now processing over 1000 crore monthly transactions, has evolved into a global benchmark for digital finance. The semiconductor mission and the introduction of production-linked incentives are strategically positioning India as a global manufacturing hub. With over 75 crore internet users, Indias digital economy is projected to reach an impressive $1 trillion by 2030. The Modi governments commitment to social welfare has been unwavering. The Swachh Bharat Mission, with the construction of over 10 crore toilets, has brought an end to open defecation. Ayushman Bharat has emerged as the worlds largest health assurance scheme, providing vital healthcare coverage to 50 crore. The Ujjwala Yojana has empowered nine crore women by providing them with clean cooking fuel. Similarly, PM-KISAN has provided direct income support to 11 crore farmers. Beyond these, education reforms, such as the National Education Policy 2020, have modernised learning frameworks, focusing on holistic development and future-ready skills. The Beti Bachao Beti Padhao campaign has significantly improved gender ratios and girls education enrolment. The Start-up India initiative has fostered an impressive ecosystem of over 100,000 start-ups. Initiatives like Lakhpati Didis are actively promoting womens Self-Help Groups (SHGs), bringing women into the mainstream of national. Indias security posture has undergone a historic and decisive shift from a defensive to a proactive deterrence approach. This resolute approach has been evident in actions such as the surgical strikes post-Uri attack and the Balakot airstrike, which established new red lines and conveyed Indias unwavering resolve against cross-border terrorism. More recently, operations like the decisive response to the Baisaran Valley massacre through Operation Sindoor further demonstrated our commitment to countering Pakistan-sponsored terrorism effectively. Our security forces have maintained relentless pressure on terror networks, neutralising 675 terrorists in Jammu and Kashmir since 2019 while dramatically reducing terror incidents across the region. The revocation of Article 370 was a pivotal step that integrated Jammu & Kashmir into the national mainstream, enabling accelerated development and greater accountability. In the Left Wing Extremism affected tribal areas of Chhattisgarh, the dual strategy of a firm security response coupled with accelerated development has fundamentally transformed the Bastar region. The neutralisation of CPI(Maoist) general secretary Nambala Keshava Rao, alias Basavaraju, marked a significant turning point in our determined fight against Left-Wing Extremism. Over 2,000 Maoists have surrendered, opting to participate in comprehensive rehabilitation programs designed to reintegrate them into society and provide them with new opportunities. With the staunch support of the Modi government, we are firmly on track to eliminate the Maoist threat by March 2026. Development has reached previously inaccessible areas, directly challenging the Maoist narrative and providing tangible benefits to the local population. This includes the construction of 4,500 km of new roads, providing crucial connectivity, along with the establishment of 250 new schools and 175 healthcare centres in Bastar. The Bastar Net Project has provided internet connectivity to remote villages. In Chhattisgarh, we are deeply committed to making our tribal communities equal partners in the development journey. The Modi governments unwavering focus on Van Dhan initiatives and the recognition of forest rights have significantly empowered tribal populations, both economically and socially. As we move forward, guided by PM Modis profound vision of serving the man behind the plough, we are actively building an India that future generations will undoubtedly be proud of.
Kittu Park: for a stroll by the pond at Chennais West Mambalam
It was once the temple tank of Kothandaramar Temple nearby. In the last few years, it has been renovated into a public park.
Haryana Minister Anil Vij Seeks Metro Link Between Ambala And Chandigarh To Ease Traffic Woes
Ahmedabad flight crash: A surprise that ended in tragedy
I didnt know they were coming. When they showed up at my door, I was speechless. I hadnt seen them since 2022, says Anil Ambalal Patel who lost his son and daughter-in-law in the devastating Air India plane crash
Liquor contractor shot dead on busy highway near Haryana's Kurukshetra
KURUKSHETRA: Unidentified assailants fatally shot a liquor contractor at Shahabad in Haryana's Kurukshetra district, police said on Saturday. Shantanu was shot dead near Meena Market on the national highway in Shahabad, 20 km from here, on Friday evening, they said. The victim briefly stopped his car to buy some items when two men on a sports bike pumped seven bullets into him, police said. Eyewitnesses told police that the attackers fired about eight rounds before fleeing. As panic spread on the busy highway, bystanders attempted to stop the shooters, who abandoned their bike, ran across the road, snatched a motorcycle at gunpoint and fled towards Ambala on the wrong side of the highway. Shantanu was rushed to Adesh Hospital, where doctors declared him dead on arrival. SP Nitish Aggarwal told PTI that he reached the crime scene with a police team along with DSP Ram Kumar and Shahabad SHO Satish Kumar. A case has been registered, and security has been tightened with blockades on all major routes and city borders as the search for the killers continues, he said. The SP said the victim, originally from a village in Jhajjar district, was living in Shahbad for sometime. Investigators have collected forensic evidence, questioned the shopkeepers, and began scanning CCTV footage from Meena Market and its nearby areas, the officer said. Police have found some clues and are hopeful for a breakthrough in the matter soon, he said. Checking has been intensified along the borders with Punjab, Himachal Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh, with multiple teams dispatched to the nearby regions, including Ambala, Saha, and Barara. A police officer said preliminary investigation suggests the murder could be linked to an old rivalry or a dispute in liquor trade.
