Why Chinese President Xi Jinping skipped BRICS gala dinner hosted by PM Modi

Chinese President Xi Jinping skipped the BRICS gala dinner hosted by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, raising questions about his absence, which lacked official explanation. While Russian President Vladimir Putin and other leaders attended, Xi reportedly returned to his hotel to rest after a busy summit day in New Delhi, held on September 12-13, featuring leaders from 21 nations.

Trisha Krishnan joins Vijay, TVK minister at Ajith Kumar's Le Mans race. Watch

Ajith Kumar participated in the Le Mans race in Silverstone, England, with support from Tamil Nadu Chief Minister and actor C Joseph Vijay, who waved the ceremonial green flag. Radhika Sarathkumar cheered for Ajith in a video. Fans celebrated both stars at the event, highlighting their long friendship, as Ajith expressed gratitude to Vijay for attending.

Ganesh Chaturthi 2026: Bollywood-inspired Ganpati decor ideas to try at home

Transform your Ganpati celebrations at home with seasonal flowers like marigolds and roses while incorporating vibrant modaks on elegant platters. Adopt a monochrome color scheme for a sophisticated decor, craft eco-friendly idols with children, and prioritize natural elements for festive aesthetics. These ideas take inspiration from Bollywood’s lavish festivities, inviting personal touches to your celebrations.

Jaylen Mbakwe injury update: What happened to Georgia Tech CB after scary impact

Georgia Tech's Jaylen Mbakwe was carted off the field after a serious collision during a game against Tennessee, where his head hit teammate Jordan Walker's knee while tackling in the third quarter. Medical staff swiftly immobilized him before transporting him on a stretcher. This incident raised concerns about player safety in college football.

India must remember SL Dambulla loss; have to bat much better in Asia Cup final

In the Asia Cup final on Sunday, India faces Sri Lanka at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, following respective semifinal performances—India's easy victory over Bangladesh and Sri Lanka’s hard-fought win against Pakistan. Historically, Sri Lanka defeated India in the previous final. India must improve its batting and fielding to avoid complacency and secure the title.

Exam security, stable pattern top MPSC reform agenda

The Maharashtra Public Service Commission (MPSC) plans significant reforms in its exam process to combat paper leaks and enhance candidate confidence. A high-level task force, established to review practices, is consulting stakeholders and considering secure technological solutions. Candidates have demanded a stable exam pattern and stronger grievance mechanisms, amidst pressing calls for systemic change in recruitment transparency.

HC directs authorities to decide on Kausar Baug encroachment complaints

The Bombay High Court has instructed authorities to address complaints regarding illegal encroachments and unauthorized structures in Kausar Baug, Kondhwa, emphasizing their duty to keep roads clear. The court, responding to a petition from the Kausar Baug Residents Forum, mandated adherence to legal procedures. The petition aimed to tackle various cited violations without directly addressing the allegations’ merits.

Five held after firing incident in Ambegaon

Ambegaon police arrested five men following a September 5 firing incident, seizing three country-made pistols and four cartridges. The suspects, aged 23 to 28, allegedly shot at a 23-year-old man after a petty argument near Harnaai Complex. Police tracked the suspects through technical leads and filed charges under multiple laws. Sub-inspector Yuvraj Shinde is investigating.

School inspection drive begins under ‘Chala Shalet Jauya’ campaign

Maharashtra's school education minister Dada Bhuse launched the "Chala Shalet Jauya" campaign, inspecting 150 schools in Gadchiroli and Nagpur to assess educational standards and infrastructure. The initiative, spanning September 8-9 and continuing on the 22-23, evaluates teaching quality, resources, and student needs, ensuring effective program implementation across the state’s educational landscape.

Pune MACT awards ₹85.98 lakh to family of woman killed in accident

The Pune Motor Accident Claims Tribunal (MACT) awarded ₹85.98 lakh to the family of Meena Girish Rathod, who died after a truck collided with the two-wheeler she was on. The judgment, delivered on September 11, held the truck driver liable and included compensation for medical expenses and loss of consortium, with 7% interest. The incident occurred on January 31, 2023.

2 property dealers booked for NRI investor’s death

Zirakpur police have charged two property dealers, Robin Garg and Karmveer Bagga, with conspiring to murder NRI investor Tej Parkash Singh over property worth ₹3 crore, following a complaint from his wife, Eshaani Isha. Singh had been abducted and forced to sign property documents before his death. He had recently returned from the US to invest in local projects.

2012 PGIMER paper leak case | Dummy candidate gets 4 months jail

A special CBI court convicted 31-year-old Y Haripriya in the 2012 PGIMER paper leak case, where she pleaded guilty and was fined ₹10,000. The investigation revealed a conspiracy to cheat during the entrance exam involving dummy candidates. Haripriya's role was limited to filling application forms, as she had not taken the examination. She was a declared fugitive until her arrest in 2025.

Haryana top blood donor for third year

Haryana has been recognized as the national leader in blood donation for the third consecutive year, collecting 5.89 lakh units and organizing 8,189 donation camps. Achieving complete licensed blood-centre coverage across all districts, the state will be honored by the central government on October 1. This success reflects public participation and efforts to improve blood services and safety.

Suspect in firing outside bizman’s house injured in Sector 52 encounter

In a tense encounter on Friday night, Mohali police tracked firing suspect Manish, 30, to a petrol pump in Chandigarh, where he allegedly attempted to run over an officer before being shot. Despite his injury, he fled but later sought treatment at a hospital, prompting police intervention. An FIR has been filed, linking the case to previous shootings.

Parallel power distribution network: Ex-Haryana minister slams panel report, calls for rejection

Former Haryana finance minister Sampat Singh criticized the Haryana Electricity Regulatory Commission's (HERC) expert committee report recommending a private power distribution license in Gurugram and Nuh, describing it as corporate exploitation. He accused HERC of neglecting its duties, raising concerns over hearings and suggesting the plan would harm farmers and consumers by targeting lucrative industrial clients. Singh demanded the report's rejection and transparency for farmers' protections.

Malaysian PM sings Kishore Kumar classic on India visit for BRICS Summit. Watch

Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim light-heartedly performed Kishore Kumar's song "Khwab Ho Tum Ya Koi Haqeeqat" during his visit to India. His remarks on PM Modi's popularity were made amidst discussions to strengthen India-Malaysia relations in trade, defence, and energy. This meeting follows Modi's earlier visit to Malaysia, reflecting ongoing bilateral cooperation efforts.

HC stays recruitment on 124 posts at Chandigarh state cooperative bank

The Punjab and Haryana High Court has temporarily halted the recruitment of 124 posts at Chandigarh State Cooperative Bank following a plea from five directors alleging rule violations during recruitment decisions. The court emphasized compliance with bylaws and proper approvals before proceeding. The next hearing is set for October 6, aiming to address the legality of the board’s actions.

PU to restore Punjab, Sikh history papers in MA syllabus after student objections

Panjab University’s history department will restore earlier Punjab and Sikh history papers in its two-year MA program following student protests against topic reductions in the revised syllabus. A memorandum prompted the administration’s response, leading to a separation of the fourth-year BA and first-year MA curricula. The previous syllabus will remain intact for two-year MA students while incorporating new thematic papers for the 4+1 system.

National Lok Adalat settles over 83 k cases in tricity

A National Lok Adalat on Saturday at the district courts in Sector 43 resolved around 30,145 cases, settling ₹18 crore. Multiple benches tackled a variety of issues, including criminal and civil disputes. Over 21,000 cases were also settled in Mohali, contributing to the efficient resolution of pending legal matters across the region, reflecting the courts' commitment to justice.

Haryana: 2 vehicles of ‘drug peddler’ frozen

Fatehabad police have frozen two Mahindra Scorpio vehicles, valued at approximately ₹30 lakh, linked to alleged drug trafficker Ramandeep amid a financial investigation related to drug trafficking. The freeze, approved under the NDPS Act, stems from Ramandeep's earlier arrest in a heroin case. Authorities report a crackdown on 480 traffickers this year, freezing assets worth over ₹5 crore.

Haryana approves ₹9,700-crore ring road, bypass projects

Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini has approved the development of ring roads and national highways around cities with populations over one lakh, backed by a ₹9,700 crore investment. Major bypasses in Hisar, Kurukshetra, Narnaul, Jind, and Sohna-Palwal will enhance connectivity. Saini also critiqued Punjab's AAP government, asserting widespread discontent among its citizens.

Bizman abducted in Zirakpur, rescued by wife; 1 held

A 55-year-old property dealer, Ajay Kharbanda, was abducted in broad daylight in Zirakpur after being attacked by multiple men in a premeditated assault. Police arrested Vishu Kumar, with further suspects being sought. Kharbanda was ultimately rescued by his wife after a distress call. The incident, likely stemming from personal enmity, is under investigation.

Kataria calls for AI-enabled, industry-oriented education

Punjab Governor Gulab Chand Kataria urged university vice-chancellors to leverage AI for enhancing higher education while emphasizing ethical, inclusive practices. At a conference, he advocated for multidisciplinary AI education beyond tech fields and proposed solutions for societal challenges. He urged universities to foster partnerships and warned about data privacy issues, aiming to prepare youth for India’s Viksit Bharat vision by 2047.

Custody case | Nothing more cruel than depriving infant of mother’s care, says HC

The Punjab and Haryana High Court awarded custody of a two-year-old girl to her mother, emphasizing that a child’s bond with her mother is irreplaceable. The mother, alleging her husband’s criminal background, sought custody after he failed to return the child, demanding money instead. The court found no evidence of the mother's claimed psychiatric issues, prioritizing the child's welfare.

Balongi residents block road over months-long water crisis

Residents of Balongi blocked the main road on Friday, protesting disrupted drinking water supply for months, which forced them to use contaminated water and heightened health risks. Led by local leaders, they demanded action from authorities. Following discussions, assurances were made to resolve the issue and initiate new borewell projects, but residents warned of future protests if problems persisted.

Gujral is UT Bar body president

Advocate AS Gujral was elected president of the Chandigarh District Bar Association, winning with 661 votes against rivals Bassi, Aggarwal, and Narang. Key positions were filled, including Abhey Joshi as vice-president and Tejwinder Singh Gill as secretary. Concurrently, Advocate Ranjodh Singh Sarao won the Mohali Bar presidency, with competitive contests highlighting voter engagement. The election was supervised by advocate Bikramjit Passi.

Chandigarh: Book explores Guru Nanak’s teachings through modern lens

Author Kamla K Kapur launched her book, ‘Awakening with Nanak,’ at the Government Art Museum, emphasizing Guru Nanak’s teachings on self-acceptance and mastery over the mind as critical for modern life. The personal approach aims to resonate with contemporary audiences. The event featured notable guests and musical performances, highlighting the book's relevance.

Blend of tradition, tech: Grand Pandals set to welcome Bappa

Major Ganesh Puja Pandals in the city are ready for Ganesh Chaturthi, featuring a mix of traditional architecture and AI. Key attractions include a 130-foot pandal inspired by New Jersey’s Swaminarayan Temple at Jhulelal Ghat and a 50-foot golden pot-themed pandal at Nishatganj utilizing AI. Celebrations also include iconic idol designs and cultural events across various venues.

Public-use spaces on LMC’s priority list, to see phased redevelopment

The Lucknow Municipal Corporation (LMC) is set to redevelop 16 cremation grounds lacking basic facilities, such as seating and boundary walls, to enhance visitor experience. A recent survey identified these sites and 13 neglected ponds for redevelopment. The LMC aims to secure these areas first, preventing encroachment, before upgrading infrastructure, prioritizing public utility enhancement in the city.

UP Board withholds results of 400+ students after currency notes found in answer sheets

The UP Board has withheld results for over 400 students from Class 10 and Class 12 compartment exams after currency notes were found in their answer sheets, marking a significant disciplinary action. This year’s evaluations, conducted online for the first time, revealed over ₹20,000 hidden in the papers. Affected students will have hearings before a final decision is made.