Punjab conducted the 5th OSCC meeting to enhance oil and gas security, address cybersecurity threats, and strengthen coordination between industry stakeholders and law enforcement.

Punjab Police reaffirms commitment to safeguarding national assets in oil and gas sector

Punjab conducted the 5th OSCC meeting to enhance oil and gas security, address cybersecurity threats, and strengthen coordination between industry stakeholders and law enforcement.

The 5th Onshore Security Coordination Committee (OSCC) meeting for Punjab took place on Thursday at Hotel Hyatt Regency, Chandigarh, under the chairmanship of Additional Director General of Police (ADGP) Security SS Srivastava, who represented DGP Punjab Gaurav Yadav.
Senior officials from Punjab Police, including ADGP Internal Security Shive Kumar Verma and ADGP Cybercrime V Neeraja, participated in the meeting, along with OSCC Chairman ED (O&amp;M) GAIL RK Singh and Advisor (Security) GAIL Saurabh Tolumbia. Representatives from the oil and gas sector, Intelligence Bureau, Border Security Force (BSF), Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), and other relevant departments were also present.
During the discussions, representatives from companies such as GAIL, IOCL, HPCL, BPCL, HMEL, Think Gas, and Torrent Gas provided insights into their operations and outlined security challenges affecting their installations.
Key topics included strengthening security measures, enhancing security protocols, and utilizing advanced CCTV surveillance for improved vigilance.
Addressing the gathering, ADGP SS Srivastava underscored the importance of maintaining a strong information network to address issues like oil theft and pipeline leakages. He also highlighted the need for regular mock drills and continuous updates to contingency plans, particularly in high-risk zones.
Reaffirming Punjab Police&rsquo;s commitment to supporting oil and gas companies, the ADGP encouraged stakeholders to seek assistance for any security-related concerns. He stressed the significance of effective coordination among all stakeholders to safeguard national assets.
ADGP Shive Kumar Verma emphasized the necessity of collaboration between oil and gas companies, local police, and the administration, stating that a strong liaison is crucial for effective security and management.
Highlighting the increasing threat of cyber security breaches, ADGP Cyber Crime V Neeraja assured comprehensive support from the Punjab Cyber Crime Division. She proposed deploying specialized teams to assess cybersecurity frameworks and provide recommendations to enhance security at oil and gas installations.

Over 3,000 panchayats in Punjab have pledged support for the state's anti-drug campaign, Yudh Nashian Virudh, strengthening the Punjab Police’s crackdown on drug abuse and trafficking.

Over 3,000 panchayats in Punjab back anti-drug campaign

Over 3,000 panchayats in Punjab have pledged support for the state's anti-drug campaign, Yudh Nashian Virudh, strengthening the Punjab Police&rsquo;s crackdown on drug abuse and trafficking.

In a major show of support for the Punjab government's anti-drug initiative, Yudh Nashian Virudh, over 3,000 panchayats across the state have passed resolutions backing the Punjab Police&rsquo;s aggressive campaign against drug abuse.&nbsp;
This collective effort marks a crucial step in the ongoing battle to eliminate the drug menace from society.
Launched under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, the campaign has evolved into a grassroots movement, with villages and towns actively participating in the fight against drugs.
Amidst the intensified crackdown on drug traffickers and peddlers, the Punjab Police, led by Director General of Police (DGP) Punjab Gaurav Yadav, has also initiated a special awareness drive to encourage public cooperation and strengthen the collective resolve to combat this crisis.
Sharing insights on the initiative, Special DGP (Law and Order) Arpit Shukla stated that police commissioners and senior superintendents (CPs/SSPs) have been directed to organize various awareness programs, including SAMPARK meetings and student interactions, to engage the public, youth, NGOs, and clubs in the anti-drug movement.
He highlighted that since the launch of Yudh Nashian Virudh, 3,022 panchayats have pledged their commitment to fighting drug abuse, supporting rehabilitation initiatives, and strengthening police-public partnerships to eradicate drugs from society.
According to the Special DGP, the overwhelming public support has reinforced the Punjab Police&rsquo;s enforcement efforts, leading to intensified raids across the state.
Detailing the latest developments, he revealed that on Thursday alone, 97 drug smugglers were arrested, and significant quantities of narcotics, including 1.5 kg of heroin, 100 grams of opium, 2 kg of ganja, and ₹1.86 lakh in drug money, were seized. In the past 20 days, a total of 2,463 individuals have been arrested, underscoring the ongoing crackdown on drug networks.
Special DGP Arpit Shukla further stated that more than 200 police teams, consisting of over 1,300 personnel and supervised by 84 gazetted officers, conducted raids at 440 locations across Punjab, leading to the registration of 58 FIRs. Additionally, police teams examined 478 suspicious individuals as part of the day-long operation.
He emphasized that the state government has adopted a three-pronged strategy&mdash;Enforcement, De-addiction, and Prevention (EDP)&mdash;to tackle the drug crisis. As part of the de-addiction effort, Punjab Police has convinced seven individuals to seek rehabilitation, while 103 awareness events have been organized to prevent drug abuse.
In a parallel effort, Punjab Police also carried out extensive searches in jails across six districts&mdash;Hoshiarpur, SBS Nagar, Jalandhar Rural, Commissionerate Jalandhar, Kapurthala, and Rupnagar&mdash;to curb illegal activities. &ldquo;Our police teams have thoroughly searched every nook and corner, including barracks, kitchens, and toilets, to ensure strict vigilance inside the jail premises,&rdquo; said Special DGP Arpit Shukla.

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath visited Ayodhya's Ram Mandir and participated in the Timeless Ayodhya Literature and Arts Festival.

UP CM Yogi Adityanath offers prayers at Ram Mandir, reviews Navratri preparations

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath visited Ayodhya's Ram Mandir and participated in the Timeless Ayodhya Literature and Arts Festival.

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath visited Ayodhya's Ram Mandir on Friday, where he offered prayers and took part in the "Timeless Ayodhya: Literature and Arts Festival." The event, organized in Ayodhya, celebrated the city's deep cultural and spiritual significance.
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Uttar Pradesh CM Yogi Adityanath offers prayers at Ayodhya's Ram Mandir <a href="https://t.co/wWmz4p5eug">pic.twitter.com/wWmz4p5eug</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1902948205295440294?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 21, 2025</a></blockquote>
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Speaking at the festival, Adityanath emphasized Ayodhya&rsquo;s role as a cornerstone of India&rsquo;s Sanatan tradition. He stated, "Ayodhya is one of the basis of India's Sanatan land. From the long time, it has been the inspiration for Sanatana Dharm.... Ayodhya is the very first land of culture. In this same Ayodhya, the incarnation of Lord Vishnu, Lord Ram was born. The event being organised on the land of Lord Ram is wonderful."
Earlier in the day, the Chief Minister visited the Pateshwari Devi Temple in Balrampur, where he offered prayers and fed cows at the temple's Gaushala. Additionally, he held a meeting with district officials to review preparations for the upcoming Navratri celebrations at the temple. The discussions centered on ensuring smooth arrangements for devotees during the festival, which is set to begin on March 30, 2025.
Chaitra Navratri, one of the two most widely observed Navratris in India, is a nine-day festival dedicated to Goddess Durga and her nine divine forms. The festival concludes with Rama Navami, celebrating the birth of Lord Ram. Navratri is observed with great devotion across the country, featuring rituals, prayers, and cultural festivities.
In another key event, CM Adityanath inaugurated the newly constructed Tehsil Building in Mihimpurwa, Bahraich district, which was completed at a cost of ₹845.19 lakh. During the inauguration, he criticized the inefficiency and corruption of previous governments, pledging to implement better governance for the people of Uttar Pradesh.
Highlighting the legacy of Maharaj Suheldev, the Chief Minister spoke about his courageous efforts in defending the region from foreign invaders. He noted that Maharaj Suheldev&rsquo;s valor ensured India's security for 150 years, preventing foreign forces from making further advances.

US Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard visited India to enhance bilateral cooperation in intelligence-sharing, defence, and counter-terrorism. She met PM Narendra Modi, Rajnath Singh, S Jaishankar, and Ajit Doval.

Gabbard's visit to India highlights strong US-India ties: US official

US Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard visited India to enhance bilateral cooperation in intelligence-sharing, defence, and counter-terrorism. She met PM Narendra Modi, Rajnath Singh, S Jaishankar, and Ajit Doval.

US Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard's meetings in India focused on bilateral cooperation in areas of intelligence-sharing, defence, counter-terrorism, and transnational threats, an American official said.
Gabbard's visit to New Delhi highlighted the decades strong US-India relationship that is bolstered by the leadership of and friendship between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Donald Trump, a spokesperson at the office of Director of National Intelligence (DNI) said.
She arrived in the national capital early Sunday on a two-and-a-half-day trip in the first high-level visit to India by a top official of the Donald Trump administration.
Gabbard held separate meetings with Prime Minister Modi, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and NSA Ajit Doval.
"In India, the DNI held several bilateral engagements, including with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi," the spokesperson said.
"DNI Gabbard's meetings in India focused on intelligence-sharing, defence, counterterrorism, and transnational threats," the official added.
Gabbard also delivered a speech at the Raisina Dialogue, focusing on Trump's efforts on bringing peace to various conflict-ridden regions.
"President Trump remains unwavering in his commitment to achieving peace through a strategy rooted in realism and pragmatism," she said.
"Securing peace through strength requires strong leadership with a clear-eyed and realistic understanding of global challenges and opportunities, a commitment to fostering cultural and economic ties that reduce the likelihood of an escalation to conflict, and a dedication to reinforcing mutual interests," she added.
In his meeting with Gabbard, Defence Minister Singh conveyed to her India's concerns over activities of Khalistani separatist group Sikhs for Justice (SFJ) on American soil and urged her to declare it as a designated terrorist entity, Indian government sources said after the talks.
Singh also apprised Gabbard about SFJ's alleged links with Pakistani spy agency Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) as well as its "collaboration" with Babbar Khalsa militant group, and pressed for action against it, they said.

The US Supreme Court will review Mumbai attack accused Tahawwur Rana’s plea against extradition to India. Rana argues health risks and possible torture, while former President Trump previously confirmed his extradition approval.

US Supreme Court justices to hear Tahawwur Rana's renewed application seeking stay of extradition to India

The US Supreme Court will review Mumbai attack accused Tahawwur Rana&rsquo;s plea against extradition to India. Rana argues health risks and possible torture, while former President Trump previously confirmed his extradition approval.

US Supreme Court justices will hear next month Mumbai terror attack accused Tahawwur Rana&rsquo;s renewed application, submitted to Chief Justice John Roberts, seeking a stay of his extradition to India.
Rana, 64, is currently lodged in the Metropolitan Detention Center in Los Angeles and submitted an "Emergency Application For Stay Pending Litigation of Petition For Writ of Habeas Corpus&rdquo; on February 27, 2025 with Elena Kagan, Associate Justice of the Supreme Court of the United States and Circuit Justice for the Ninth Circuit.
Earlier this month, Kagan had denied the application.&nbsp;
Rana had then renewed his "Emergency Application for Stay Pending Litigation of Petition for Writ of Habeas Corpus previously addressed to Justice Kagan,&rdquo; and requested that the renewed application be directed to Chief Justice Roberts.
An order on the Supreme Court website noted that Rana&rsquo;s renewed application has been &ldquo;distributed for Conference of 4/4/2025&rdquo; and &ldquo;application&rdquo; has been &ldquo;referred to the Court.&rdquo;
Rana is known to be associated with Pakistani-American terrorist David Coleman Headley, one of the main conspirators of the 26/11 attacks.
Headley conducted a recce of Mumbai before the attacks by posing as an employee of Rana&rsquo;s immigration consultancy.
Rana was convicted in the US of one count of conspiracy to provide material support to the terrorist plot in Denmark and one count of providing material support to Pakistan-based terrorist organisation Lashker-e-Taiba which was responsible for the attacks in Mumbai.
New York-based Indian-American attorney Ravi Batra told PTI that Rana had made his application to the Supreme Court to prevent extradition, which Justice Kagan denied on March 6.
The application is now before Roberts, &ldquo;who has shared it with the Court to conference so as to harness the entire Court&rsquo;s view.&rdquo;
Batra added that he fully expects &ldquo;that in calmer times CJ Roberts would deny Rana the right to stay in America and avoid facing justice in India."
"During current times, with so many district judges blocking President Trump&rsquo;s domestic agenda changes...the Supreme Court will enjoy denying Rana more easily.&rdquo;
&ldquo;After President Trump and PM (Narendra) Modi met in the Oval, President Trump announced in the press conference that Rana will be extradited to India, to face his victims and his justice. The current posture is akin to a fish out of water, but moving around a lot to try to get back into American waters,&rdquo; Batra said.&nbsp;
Rana is seeking a stay of his extradition and surrender to India pending litigation (including exhaustion of all appeals) on the merits of a petition he filed on February 13.
In that petition, Rana argued that his extradition to India violates United States law and the United Nations Convention Against Torture "because there are substantial grounds for believing that, if extradited to India, the petitioner will be in danger of being subjected to torture."
&ldquo;The likelihood of torture in this case is even higher though as petitioner faces acute risk as a Muslim of Pakistani origin charged in the Mumbai attacks,&rdquo; the application said.
The application also said that his &ldquo;severe medical conditions&rdquo; render extradition to Indian detention facilities a &ldquo;de facto" death sentence in this case.&nbsp;
It cited medical records from July 2024 that confirm Rana has multiple &ldquo;acute and life-threatening diagnoses&rdquo;, including multiple documented heart attacks, Parkinson&rsquo;s disease with cognitive decline, a mass suggestive of bladder cancer, stage 3 chronic kidney disease, and a history of chronic asthma, and multiple COVID-19 infections.&nbsp;
&ldquo;Accordingly, petitioner certainly has raised a credible, if not compelling, factual case that there are indeed substantial grounds for believing he would be in danger of torture if surrendered to Indian authorities.&nbsp;
&ldquo;Further, because of his Muslim religion, his Pakistani origin, his status as a former member of the Pakistani Army, the relation of the putative charges to the 2008 Mumbai attacks, and his chronic health conditions he is even more likely to be tortured than otherwise would be the case, and that torture is very likely to kill him in short order.&rdquo;
The US Supreme Court denied Rana&rsquo;s petition for writ of certiorari relating to his original habeas petition on January 21, 2025.
The application notes that on that same day, newly-confirmed Secretary of State Marco Rubio had met with External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar.
When Prime Minister Modi arrived in Washington on February 12 to meet with Trump, Rana&rsquo;s counsel received a letter from the Department of State, stating that &ldquo;on February 11, 2025, the Secretary of State decided to authorize&rdquo; Rana&rsquo;s "surrender to India,&rdquo; pursuant to the &ldquo;Extradition Treaty between the United States and India&rdquo;.
Rana&rsquo;s Counsel requested from the State Department the complete administrative record on which Secretary Rubio based his decision to authorize Rana&rsquo;s surrender to India.
The Counsel also requested immediate information on any commitment the United States has obtained from India with respect to Rana&rsquo;s treatment.
&ldquo;The government declined to provide any information in response to these requests,&rdquo; the application said.
It added that given Rana&rsquo;s underlying health conditions and the State Department&rsquo;s own findings regarding the treatment of prisoners, it is very likely &ldquo;Rana will not survive long enough to be tried in India.&nbsp;
&ldquo;The issues raised by petitioner merit full and careful consideration, and the stakes are enormous for him. The very least the US courts owe the petitioner is a full chance to litigate these issues, including exercising their appellate rights, before he is consigned to the fate that awaits him at the hands of the Indian government,&rdquo; the application said.
It added that if a stay is not entered, there will be no review at all, and the US courts will lose jurisdiction, and &ldquo;petitioner will soon be dead.
Therefore, we respectfully request that this Court enter an Order staying the extradition and surrender of petitioner pending a full and considered hearing on petitioner&rsquo;s claims by the district court, circuit court, and, if necessary, a writ of certiorari to and further proceedings before this Court.&rdquo;
US President Trump, during a joint press conference with Prime Minister Modi in the White House last month, announced that Rana&rsquo;s extradition to India has been approved.
The Supreme Court justices are Associate Justice Clarence Thomas, Associate Justice &nbsp;Samuel A Alito, Jr, Associate Justice Sonia Sotomayor, Associate Justice Elena Kagan, Associate Justice Neil M Gorsuch, Associate Justice Brett M. Kavanaugh, Associate Justice Amy Coney Barrett, and Associate Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson.
A total of 166 people, including six Americans, were killed in the 2008 Mumbai terror attacks in which 10 Pakistani terrorists laid a more than 60-hour siege, attacking and killing people at iconic and vital locations in Mumbai.

The Punjab Cabinet, led by CM Bhagwant Mann, approved the 2025-26 Budget estimates and announced a 25% reservation for EWS students in private schools. The CAG report 2023-24 will also be presented in the upcoming Vidhan Sabha session.

Punjab Cabinet approves budget 2025-26, reserves 25% seats for EWS in private schools

The Punjab Cabinet, led by CM Bhagwant Mann, approved the 2025-26 Budget estimates and announced a 25% reservation for EWS students in private schools. The CAG report 2023-24 will also be presented in the upcoming Vidhan Sabha session.

The Punjab Cabinet, under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, has approved the Budget estimates for the financial year 2025-26.&nbsp;
These estimates will be presented during the upcoming budget session of the Punjab Vidhan Sabha.
A decision in this regard was taken during a meeting of the Council of Ministers held at the Chief Minister&rsquo;s official residence.
Disclosing the details, a spokesperson from the Chief Minister&rsquo;s Office stated that Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema will present the budget in the House on March 26. Additionally, the Cabinet has also approved the placement of the Comptroller and Auditor General of India's report for the year 2023-24 before the House.
25% Reservation for EWS Students in Private Schools
In a significant move aimed at enhancing access to quality education for students from economically weaker sections (EWS), the Cabinet has approved an amendment to the Punjab Right of Children to Free and Compulsory Education Rules, 2011. The amendment omits clause 7 (01) of the existing rules, thereby enabling EWS students to seek direct admission in private schools.
This groundbreaking decision is expected to revolutionize education in Punjab by ensuring that underprivileged students can access high-quality education in private institutions, in addition to the education provided in government schools.
Notably, the Right to Education Act mandates that 25% of seats in private schools be reserved for EWS students. However, previous governments had imposed restrictions in the state&rsquo;s education rules, preventing students from directly availing this benefit in private institutions.
With this historic decision, all such barriers have been removed, ensuring that students from weaker sections have unrestricted access to private school education across Punjab.

Sunita Williams and Crew-9's 286-day mission ends successfully. Overcoming technical delays, they inspire global space enthusiasts.

Sunita Williams Safely Returns from Space Mission

NASA's Sunita Williams and Crew-9 safely conclude a 286-day space mission overcoming technical delays, inspiring globally.

NASA astronaut Sunita Williams returns safely after a 286-day mission, overcoming technical delays, inspiring worldwide.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Wednesday expressed delight over the return of NASA astronaut Sunita Williams and her fellow Crew-9 members and said they have rewritten the history of human endurance and perseverance in space.
Williams and fellow NASA astronauts Nick Hague and Butch Wilmore, and Roscosmos cosmonaut Aleksandr Gorbunov, returned to Earth onboard SpaceX's Dragon spacecraft, which splashed down in the sea off the coast of Tallahassee, Florida in the US.
"Delighted at the safe return of NASA's #Crew9 on earth! The crew comprising of India's daughter Sunita Williams and other astronauts have rewritten the history of human endurance and perseverance in Space. Sunita Williams' incredible journey, unwavering dedication, fortitude and fighting spirit will inspire millions across the globe," Singh wrote in a post on X.
Her safe return is a moment of celebration for space enthusiasts and the entire world, he said.
"Her courage and achievements make us all proud. Congratulations and a big thank you to all stakeholders for bringing them back safely on earth," Singh further said in his post.
For Williams and Wilmore, test pilots for Boeing's new Starliner capsule, an eight-day mission stretched to more than nine months as a series of helium leaks and thruster failures deemed their spacecraft unsafe. The spacecraft returned without them in September.
Williams and Wilmore bid farewell to the International Space Station, their home since last June, departing aboard a SpaceX capsule alongside two other astronauts.
The capsule undocked from the space station on Tuesday and splashed down off the Florida coast on Wednesday morning, after clocking 286 days in space. This was Williams' third space flight and she has clocked a cumulative 608 days in space.
A former US Navy captain, Williams, 59, was born to a Gujarati father Deepak Pandya hailing from Jhulasan in Mehsana district and Slovenian mother Ursuline Bonnie Pandya, on September 19, 1965 in Euclid, Ohio.
&nbsp;

Adani Group collaborates with PGTI for the Adani Invitational Golf Championship in 2025, held at Jaypee Greens, featuring a Rs 1.5 crore prize.

Adani to Launch Major Golf Tournament in 2025

Announcing the Adani Invitational Golf Championship 2025, a collaboration with PGTI to enhance and popularize golf in India, featuring a Rs 1.5 crore prize.

Adani Group announces Adani Invitational Golf Championship 2025 with Rs 1.5 crore prize, aiming to enhance Indian golf popularity and nurture talent.

The Adani Group is set to enter Indian professional golf with the launch of the Adani Invitational Golf Championship 2025 in partnership with the Professional Golf Tour of India (PGTI), the official sanctioning body of men's professional golf in India.
"This Adani Group initiative intends to promote and broaden golf's accessibility and elevate its status as a mainstream sport, and also to cultivate the next generation of global champions from India," a company statement said.
The inaugural tournament, offering a Rs 1.5 crore prize, will be held at Jaypee Greens Golf &amp; Spa Resort, Greater Noida, from April 1-4, 2025, marking PGTI's return to the venue after 11 years.
"We are delighted to join hands with Kapil Dev and the Professional Golf Tour of India (PGTI) to contribute to the growth of Indian professional golf," said Pranav Adani, Director, Adani Enterprises Limited.
"Our goal is to cultivate Indian global champions in golf. We are committed to enhancing accessibility to golf, promoting greater participation and offering world-class training and playing opportunities." Kapil Dev, President of the PGTI, said the backing of the Adani Group will help the PGTI produce more champion golfers from India who will make the country proud on the international stage.
"I expect to see golf fans in big numbers following their favourite players on the course during the tournament." Terming the Adani Invitational Golf Championship 2025 as a watershed moment for the PGTI, its CEO Amandeep Johl said, "This association will raise the stature of the Tour. We thank the Adani Group, our title sponsors, for sharing PGTI's vision of creating more playing opportunities for Indian professionals".
"With an attractive prize purse, outstanding playing conditions at the Jaypee Greens Golf &amp; Spa Resort and a top-notch field vying for the title, one can expect a spectacular week of golfing action at the eagerly awaited Adani Invitational Golf Championship 2025."
A pre-tournament event will be held on March 29 at The Belvedere Golf &amp; Country Club, Ahmedabad. Along with this event, five leading PGTI professionals will conduct a golf clinic that will introduce the sport to 50 children from The Adani International School.
Cricket legend Kapil Dev, now the PGTI President, will be present at this event to highlight the shared vision of the Adani Group and PGTI to develop golfing talent and advance Indian golf.&nbsp;

NASA's Sunita Williams returns from space mission. Celebrated globally, she exemplifies resilience and contribution to space. Indian leaders express pride, marking her achievements.

Sunita Williams Returns: A Global Celebration

Sunita Williams, NASA astronaut, concludes space mission. Celebrated by India for resilience and inspiration. Connects global achievements in space.

NASA astronaut Sunita Williams returns after a nine-month mission with her team. Celebrated globally, she is acknowledged for her resilience and contribution to space exploration. Leaders across India express pride, highlighting her impact.

President Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister Narendra Modi, along with numerous celebrities and politicians, celebrated the safe return of NASA astronaut Sunita Williams and her colleagues after a nine-month mission.
Their journey concluded with a splashdown of the SpaceX Dragon spacecraft off the coast of Tallahassee, Florida, early Wednesday.
Williams, along with fellow astronauts Nick Hague, Butch Wilmore, and Russian cosmonaut Aleksandr Gorbunov, completed an extended mission due to technical issues with their original Boeing Starliner capsule.
The mission highlights the unpredictable nature of space exploration, which required Williams and Wilmore to stay much longer in space due to helium leaks and thruster failures in their spacecraft. The capsule returned without them last month, necessitating an extended stay.
President Murmu expressed her admiration on social media, praising India's "daughter" and her fellow astronauts for their perseverance and dedication. Prime Minister Modi echoed these sentiments, acknowledging the astronauts' grit and the boundless human spirit, emphasizing Williams' role as a trailblazer.
The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) commended the mission's success as a testament to the commitment of NASA, SpaceX, and the USA to space exploration.
Multiple Indian ministers and public figures also extended their congratulations, including Piyush Goyal, Nitin Gadkari, and Jyotiraditya Scindia, highlighting this event as a proud moment for India's contribution to space endeavors.
Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel expressed immense national pride in Williams' Indian heritage, pointing out her Gujarati roots. Meanwhile, other chief ministers and political figures, such as Kerala's Pinarayi Vijayan and Assam's Himanta Biswa Sarma, lauded the mission's success as a milestone in human resilience and scientific progress.
Prominent individuals from diverse sectors, including business leader Anand Mahindra and actors like Chiranjeevi and R Madhavan, offered their accolades. Mahindra remarked on the relief of having Williams back on Earth, describing her as the embodiment of courage.
Williams, 59, is a former US Navy captain with a distinguished career in space exploration.
Born to a Gujarati father and Slovenian mother in Euclid, Ohio, she has become an emblem of inspiration for millions worldwide, demonstrating exceptional fortitude throughout her career.

Amid corruption accusations, AAP leaders face legal challenges impacting party’s image and political landscape.

AAP Leaders Face Mounting Corruption Allegations

Corruption allegations challenge AAP leadership, impacting Delhi's political dynamics and tarnishing party's image.

AAP leaders face mounting corruption allegations, impacting the party&rsquo;s reputation and election outcomes.

Corruption allegations continue to mount against leaders of the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), with former Delhi Health Minister Satyender Jain facing fresh accusations tied to a Rs 571 crore project for installing CCTV cameras in the city.
The case, which has been ongoing since May 2023, falls under the Prevention of Corruption Act. Mr. Jain allegedly accepted a Rs 7 crore bribe to waive a Rs 16 crore penalty associated with delays in the project&rsquo;s execution.
Mr. Jain had previously secured bail in October of the previous year following an arrest two years earlier in connection with a money laundering investigation by the Enforcement Directorate. Adding to his legal woes, President Droupadi Murmu recently sanctioned his prosecution in a disproportionate assets case.
Meanwhile, AAP leaders Arvind Kejriwal and Manish Sisodia are grappling with their own legal battles. Mr. Kejriwal faces charges related to misappropriating public funds for party promotional materials, a case dating back six years.
Mr. Sisodia, the former deputy chief minister, is implicated in a Rs 2,000 crore scam tied to school classroom construction in Delhi. Both continue to deal with allegations surrounding the controversial Delhi liquor excise policy scam, which a recent Comptroller and Auditor-General (CAG) report claims cost the state Rs 2,002 crore.
Despite vehement denials from AAP, which asserts that these charges are politically motivated attacks orchestrated by the BJP to tarnish its image and that of its leaders, the allegations have had political repercussions.
In a setback for the party, the BJP secured a decisive victory in the latest Delhi Assembly elections, capturing 48 of the 70 seats and taking control of the government for the first time in 28 years. The BJP has also accused Mr. Kejriwal of misappropriating Rs 45 crore of taxpayers&rsquo; money for renovations of his official residence during his time as Chief Minister.

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In its fight against the COVID-19 pandemic, India has crossed an important milestone of administering over 3.29 crore vaccine doses, the Union Health Ministry said on Tuesday.
A total of 3,29,47,432 vaccine doses have been given till Tuesday 8 am, according to the union health ministry's website.
India administered 30,39,394 lakh covid vaccines on Monday, its highest in a day.&nbsp;The vaccination of beneficiaries aged over 60 has touched 1 crore within 15 days, the ministry said.
The countrywide vaccination drive was rolled out on January 16 with healthcare workers getting inoculated and vaccination of the frontline workers started from February 2.

India administers over 30 lakh vaccines in a day, highest so far

Big milestone: India administers over 30 lakh vaccines in a day, highest so far

In its fight against the COVID-19 pandemic, India has crossed an important milestone of administering over 3.29 crore vaccine doses, the Union Health Ministry said on Tuesday.
A total of 3,29,47,432 vaccine doses have been given till Tuesday 8 am, according to the union health ministry's website.
India administered 30,39,394 lakh covid vaccines on Monday, its highest in a day.&nbsp;The vaccination of beneficiaries aged over 60 has touched 1 crore within 15 days, the ministry said.
The countrywide vaccination drive was rolled out on January 16 with healthcare workers getting inoculated and vaccination of the frontline workers started from February 2.

Uttarakhand CM Pushkar Singh Dhami highlights government initiatives, including self-employment for 50,000 youth and 30% job reservation for women. 

Over 50,000 youth given self-employment in three years: Uttarakhand CM

Uttarakhand CM Pushkar Singh Dhami highlights government initiatives, including self-employment for 50,000 youth and 30% job reservation for women. The state sees a decline in unemployment, increased investments, and progress on the Uniform Civil Code (UCC).

Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami on Friday reaffirmed the government's commitment to making the state's youth self-reliant and empowered.&nbsp;
Over the past three years, more than 50,000 young individuals have been provided self-employment opportunities under the Chief Minister Self-Employment Scheme.
"The government is constantly striving to make the youth of the state empowered and self-reliant. In the last three years, more than 50,000 youth have been provided self-employment opportunities under the Chief Minister Self-Employment Scheme," stated the CM's office.
Encouraging young people to not only become self-sufficient but also create employment opportunities for others, CM Dhami said, "Our aim is that the youth of the state should not only become self-reliant by joining self-employment, but also create new employment opportunities for other youth."
Highlighting initiatives for women&rsquo;s empowerment, CM Dhami described his tenure as "three years of service, good governance, and development." He emphasized that a significant step toward gender equality has been the provision of 30% horizontal reservation for women in government jobs.
"Under the 'Chief Minister Mahila Swarojgar Yojana,' more than 30,000 women have been provided self-employment opportunities, which has strengthened their economic condition and made them self-reliant," he said.
On Wednesday, CM Dhami chaired a review meeting at the State Secretariat in Dehradun, covering various departments including Agriculture, Horticulture, Cooperatives, Silk, Aromatic Plants, Sugarcane, and Tea Production. He highlighted that multiple development projects have been initiated over the last three years and emphasized a decline in the state&rsquo;s unemployment rate, alongside increased investments. He also spoke about the implementation of the Uniform Civil Code (UCC).

Punjab NRI Affairs Minister Kuldeep Singh Dhaliwal conducted the fourth online NRI Milnee to address complaints of NRI Punjabis. 

Kuldeep Singh Dhaliwal holds 4th Monthly online NRI Milnee to resolve the grievances of NRI Punjabis

A total of 123 grievances were received, with officials directed to ensure swift resolution, reaffirming Punjab's commitment to its global diaspora.

NRI Affairs Minister Kuldeep Singh Dhaliwal conducted the fourth online NRI Milnee at Punjab Civil Secretariat-1 to address the grievances of NRI Punjabis through video conferencing.
He stated that under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, Punjab has launched this unique initiative to resolve NRI complaints. He emphasized that Punjab is the only state in the country to implement such a program for the redressal of NRI issues.
During this session, a total of 123 complaints were received&mdash;98 via email and 25 through WhatsApp. Dhaliwal also highlighted that in the last three NRI Milnees, 393 complaints were received, of which 343 cases have already been resolved.
He instructed ADGP NRI Wing of Punjab Police Praveen K Sinha and the SSPs of the concerned districts to promptly address the complaints. Assuring swift resolution, he reiterated that the grievances of NRI Punjabis would be handled with urgency.
Dhaliwal reassured the NRI community, stating, "I am always at your disposal to solve your problems and concerns, and we will leave no stone unturned to resolve your grievances." He also encouraged NRIs to meet him at their convenience for any assistance.
The fourth monthly NRI Milnee was attended by Additional Chief Secretary Dilip Kumar, ADGP NRI Wing Praveen K Sinha, and other officials from the NRI Affairs Department.

As part of Punjab’s War Against Drugs campaign, authorities demolished properties of drug traffickers in Fazilka. With 111 arrests and major drug seizures, the police crackdown is gaining strong public support in the fight against narcotics.

Bulldozer action on properties of two drug peddlers in Punjab's Fazilka

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As part of Punjab&rsquo;s War Against Drugs campaign, authorities demolished properties of drug traffickers in Fazilka. With 111 arrests and major drug seizures, the police crackdown is gaining strong public support in the fight against narcotics.
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Under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, the Punjab Government has intensified its crackdown on drug trafficking.
As part of this initiative, authorities demolished the properties of two individuals involved in drug trade in Fazilka district on Thursday.
Local residents welcomed this strict action, praising the government&rsquo;s commitment to eliminating the drug menace.
Leading the operation, SSP Varinder Singh Brar stated that the demolition took place in Mandi Arniwala in the presence of the civil administration team. The individuals, identified as Rani and Bagga, were known for their involvement in drug trafficking and had multiple cases registered against them. Their illegal constructions were demolished as part of the ongoing crackdown. Notably, Rani had three drug-related FIRs against her.
SSP Brar emphasized that the War Against Drugs campaign is transforming into a mass movement, with increasing public participation. He noted that people are now coming forward without fear to report drug traffickers, with the police ensuring confidentiality and swift action on every tip-off. He reiterated that those engaged in drug trafficking would face severe consequences.
Providing further details, SSP Brar revealed that since the campaign's launch on March 1, 2025, a total of 76 drug-related cases have been registered across the district. So far, 111 accused have been arrested and sent to jail. The police have seized 2.383 kg of heroin, 575,585 Pregabalin capsules, 23,279 intoxicating tablets, 7.5 kg of poppy husk, and ₹52,000 in drug money.
In addition to this demolition, similar action had been taken earlier against another drug trafficker in the district.

Punjab School Education Minister Harjot Singh Bains has initiated a statewide campaign aimed at increasing student enrollment in government schools.

Punjab launches campaign to boost government school enrollment

Punjab School Education Minister Harjot Singh Bains has initiated a statewide campaign aimed at increasing student enrollment in government schools.

To strengthen the enrollment drive in Punjab, School Education Minister Harjot Singh Bains launched a statewide campaign to boost student admissions in government schools.
The initiative was inaugurated on Thursday at Government Primary Smart School, Phase-2, SAS Nagar.
As part of the campaign, a specially designed van equipped with banners and loudspeakers was flagged off to spread awareness. A total of 23 such vans will travel across all 228 educational blocks in Punjab, encouraging parents to enroll their children in government schools.
The minister emphasized the department&rsquo;s goal of increasing enrollment in pre-primary schools by 10%. Last year, over 3.51 lakh students were enrolled in Punjab&rsquo;s 13,100 pre-primary schools.
This enrollment drive aims to identify out-of-school children, promote government school admissions, and enhance community engagement for universal access to education. Local MLAs, Deputy Commissioners, SDMs, public figures, School Management Committees (SMCs), panchayats, and school heads will actively participate in the initiative. The objective is to raise awareness among parents and the community about the importance of education and encourage school enrollment.
Highlighting the achievements of the School Education Department, Bains shared that 189 students from government schools successfully cleared the JEE Mains examination this year. He praised their success as a testament to the quality of education in government institutions and congratulated both the students and their teachers for this accomplishment.
He also outlined the efforts of the Punjab Government, led by Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, in improving school education and infrastructure over the past three years. Government schools have been equipped with essential amenities, including Wi-Fi, furniture, separate toilets for boys and girls, and transportation facilities for students in Schools of Eminence and 17 girls&rsquo; schools. Additionally, over 10,000 new classrooms have been built, 6,000 classrooms renovated, and 1,300 km of boundary walls constructed in 8,000 government schools.
The event was also attended by Director SCERT Amaninder Kaur Brar, Director School Education (Secondary) Paramjit Singh, and other senior officials of the department.

Punjab Education Minister Harjot Singh Bains has written to the Himachal Pradesh CM, NGT, and CPCB, demanding urgent action against industrial pollution contaminating Punjab’s water bodies, posing serious environmental and public health risks.

Punjab urges urgent action against industrial pollution from Himachal Pradesh

Punjab Education Minister Harjot Singh Bains has written to the Himachal Pradesh CM, NGT, and CPCB, demanding urgent action against industrial pollution contaminating Punjab&rsquo;s water bodies, posing serious environmental and public health risks.

Raising urgent concerns over the pollution of Punjab's water bodies due to industrial effluents from Himachal Pradesh (HP), Punjab Education Minister and Anandpur Sahib MLA Harjot Singh Bains has written to HP Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, urging swift and stringent action to address this environmental and public health crisis.
Bains has also reached out to the Chairperson of the National Green Tribunal (NGT) and the Member Secretary of the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), seeking immediate intervention to protect public health, particularly in his constituency, Anandpur Sahib.
In his communication, he cited test results from the Punjab Pollution Control Board (PPCB), which confirmed that hazardous industrial waste from HP&rsquo;s industrial zones is flowing into the Swan and Barmala Khad, eventually contaminating the Sutlej River. Highlighting the gravity of the situation, he referred to an incident in Barmala Khad, where multiple wild pigs died due to intoxication caused by polluted water. This unchecked contamination is not only deteriorating the Sutlej River but also posing serious health risks to local communities.
In his letter to the Himachal Pradesh CM, Bains referenced PPCB reports and numerous complaints from residents of his constituency, urging personal intervention to stop the discharge of untreated effluents into Punjab's water bodies. He stressed the need for immediate action to curb this environmental hazard.
Expressing deep concerns about preserving ecological balance and ensuring public health in his letter to the NGT Chairperson, Bains called for strict action against industries responsible for pollution. He demanded the immediate closure of those violating pollution norms and urged the NGT to direct HP authorities to implement stringent pollution control measures. Additionally, he requested necessary orders to monitor and remediate the affected water bodies, including the Swan riverbed, Barmala Khad, and the Sutlej River.
In his letter to the CPCB Member Secretary, Bains sought urgent intervention to conduct a thorough inspection of industrial units in the Bathari and Golthai industrial areas of HP. He called for the immediate cessation of untreated industrial discharge into the Swan and Barmala Khad streams and urged strict enforcement of environmental norms, along with punitive action against industries violating pollution regulations. He also emphasized the need for long-term remediation measures to restore water quality in the affected regions.
&ldquo;The rivers are the lifelines of Punjab, and their contamination poses a severe threat to public health, agriculture, and biodiversity," Bains said, stressing the urgency of taking immediate action to prevent further damage.

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