‘Durable peace requires 2-state solution’: India at UN on Israel-Palestine

External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar affirmed India’s support for a two-state solution to the Israel-Palestine conflict during a UN address, emphasizing its necessity for lasting peace. India has provided significant humanitarian aid to Palestinians and previously backed Palestine's UN membership. Jaishankar also criticized ongoing conflicts and Pakistan's attempts to normalize terrorism. India's commitment remains strong, promoting peace and stability.

20-year-old man develops affordable wastewater treatment solution, gets UNDP recognition

A 20-year-old entrepreneur, Piyush Jha, from Bihar, has developed a decentralized wastewater treatment system aimed at reducing industrial pollution in Mumbai's slums. His innovation, recognized by the UNDP's Youth Co:Lab, utilizes microorganisms to treat wastewater economically, benefiting industries while lowering operational costs. Jha, a college dropout, has gained support through various partnerships and mentoring programs.

World Tourism Day 2026: How to use AI to plan a smarter holiday

AI can greatly enhance travel planning by personalizing itineraries based on budget, interests, and preferences. To maximize its effectiveness, users should provide detailed prompts, explore multiple options, and verify essential information through official sources. While AI offers valuable suggestions, true travel discovery lies in spontaneous local experiences and flexibility. Ultimately, treat AI recommendations as a launching point, not the final word.

18 local bodies fail to conduct single sex determination sting op in 3 years

A prenatal sex determination and abortion racket uncovered in Maharashtra has highlighted significant gaps in enforcement, with 18 local authorities failing to conduct any sting operations under the PCPNDT Act in three years. Investigations led to 13 arrests, including doctors, revealing systemic regulatory failures that must be addressed to combat illegal practices effectively and protect fetal rights.

Chandigarh: PU plans stronger mental health support for students

Panjab University is enhancing its mental health support as thousands of students begin a new academic session in hostels, following alarming suicide incidents. The initiative includes regular counselling, collaboration with the Tele-MANAS programme, and proactive identification of distressed students. With only two counsellors for about 15,000 students, timely intervention is crucial for addressing emotional well-being in line with the National Education Policy.

Four Panchkula residents lose over ₹10 lakh in cyber fraud cases

Four residents, including a 67-year-old man and a 63-year-old retired engineer, lost over ₹10 lakh in separate cyber-fraud incidents, prompting FIRs last weekend. A woman reported ₹5 lakh stolen from her mother's bank accounts, while a doctor lost ₹3 lakh, and a retired engineer was duped of ₹2 lakh through fraudulent online transactions. Investigations are ongoing. Cyber fraud remains a significant concern.

Guest column | In AI age, varsities need to create thinkers again

Amid the global AI revolution, universities are grappling with its integration, exemplified by the University of Chicago's ban on AI for social sciences, contrasting with MIT's proactive approach. Indian institutions like IISc and IIT Delhi are assessing AI's impact, yet they must rethink educational models. The shift from degree-focused systems to fostering critical thinking is crucial for future intellectual development.

PCA to felicitate Rohit, Virat at India-West Indies ODI

The Punjab Cricket Association will honor cricket legends Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli during the October 3 ODI against West Indies at the New PCA Cricket Stadium. This debut match features India captain Shubman Gill and local players Naman Dhir and Gurnoor Brar. PCA president Amarjeet Singh Mehta promises top-notch arrangements for fans.

Pune’s Ganpati immersion concludes after 33 hours, an hour longer than last year

PUNE: The Ganpati immersion procession in Pune lasted over 33 hours, featuring more than 650 mandals and drawing large crowds to bid farewell to the idols. Despite delays due to halted processions, the event concluded peacefully, with police noting lower noise levels. A tragic incident occurred when a 20-year-old fell from a tractor, highlighting safety concerns at festivals.

Handbag stolen from parked car at Zirakpur wedding resort

A Bengaluru IT professional lost ₹35,000 cash, shagun envelopes, and gift cards after a man smashed her car window outside a wedding reception in Zirakpur. Ramya Shree left her handbag unattended, which led to the theft around midnight when CCTV showed the suspect entering her vehicle unopposed. Police are investigating the incident and reviewing security protocols at the resort.

Panchkula: Six booked for attacking workers at Pinjore mining site

A dispute over a tipper led to an attack on three workers at a mining site in Mauja Karnapur, Pinjore, late Thursday. Armed men, allegedly linked to the complaint, assaulted the workers, causing critical injuries, damaged office equipment, and stole ₹20,000. The injured were hospitalized, and police registered an FIR against the assailants under multiple legal provisions.

17 judicial officers recuse from cases involving Uttarakhand IFS officer

Seventeen judicial officers have recused themselves from cases involving Uttarakhand-cadre IFS officer Sanjiv Chaturvedi, with the latest being CAT judge Rajveer Singh Verma on September 21. Recusals date back to 2013, starting with Supreme Court Justice Ranjan Gogoi. This pattern highlights ongoing concerns regarding impartiality in cases linked to Chaturvedi's allegations of corruption and harassment.

No monkey business: Punjab and Haryana HC refuses to quash plaint against studio owner for displaying protected species

The Punjab and Haryana High Court has upheld a complaint against a tattoo studio owner for illegally displaying a protected monkey species, the Rhesus Macaque, despite no animal being found during inspections. The court affirmed sufficient grounds exist to continue proceedings, based on evidence from PETA and social media, dismissing the owner's plea for quashing the complaint. This situation stems from a July 2020 report by PETA.

91 noise pollution cases registered in Pimpri-Chinchwad during Ganeshotsav

Pimpri-Chinchwad police registered 91 noise pollution cases during Ganeshotsav from September 14 to 26, seizing 86 sound equipment units across four divisions. Division 2 had the highest incidents at 44 cases. Commissioner Vinoy Kumar Chaubey noted significant violations, particularly in Wakad. Activist Vidyanand Bapat called for stricter enforcement of noise regulations, citing persistent high-decibel disturbances.

Noise curbs fail; Laxmi Road average hits 104.5 dB

Despite public protests and police enforcement, Ganesh immersion processions on Laxmi Road recorded increased noise levels, averaging 104.5 dB, compared to 92.6 dB in 2025. COEP and MPCB noted violations persisted at pandals across Pune, with the highest reading at Gokhale Junction reaching 115.4 dB. Noise control promises remain unmet, raising community concerns and prompting citizen action.

Mohali: Man shot for ‘objecting to cousin’s harassment’ succumbs to injuries in Mullanpur

A 32-year-old wrestler and village panchayat member died from gunshot wounds after confronting a cousin's sexual harassment in Mullanpur’s Padaul village. Following his death, villagers blocked the Kurali-Chandigarh highway, demanding justice. Police arrested two suspects, linking the incident to a long-standing dispute. Community leaders emphasize the need for thorough investigation to ensure safety and accountability.

Ganeshotsav drives metro ridership to 48.32 lakh in 12 days

Pune Metro transported 4,832,915 passengers and generated ₹7.49 crore revenue during Ganeshotsav this year, marking a 136.32% increase from 2024. The 24-hour immersion service alone carried 580,280 passengers, supported by enhanced frequency and digital ticketing. Maha-Metro emphasized medical facilities at key stations, reflecting rising ridership trends over the past two years.

Mohali: Builder to refund ₹16L for failing to execute seller-buyer agreement

A Chandigarh woman, Balwinder Kaur, was awarded a refund of ₹16 lakh with interest and ₹2 lakh in compensation due to Geetu Construction Pvt Ltd’s failure to provide possession or necessary loan documents for her booked flat in Mohali. The district consumer commission found the builder negligent, noting revoked development rights and halted construction. Kaur had paid on May 28, 2023.

Book Box| A reader in Spain: Málaga, Seville, and the real Costa del Crime

Málaga reveals a hidden Spain beyond tourist attractions, characterized by its rich history echoed in architecture blending Islamic and Christian influences. As the author explores cities like Seville, the narrative intertwines literary references, including crime novels set against historical backdrops, hinting at deeper cultural layers. This journey uncovers a Spain where shadows of the past remain ever-present.

PMC records 3.5% rise in Ganesh idol collection compared to last yr

Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) recorded 6,77,057 Ganesh idols immersed or collected this year, a 3.5% increase from last year’s 6,54,410, reflecting a growing preference for eco-friendly immersions. Enhanced facilities like 38 immersion ghats and 58 built tanks contributed to this positive response. Efforts included deploying 1,670 vehicles and collecting 9,83,044 kg of nirmalya, indicating environmental progress.

Chandigarh: Bike-taxi drivers protest against aggregator bans, seek legal route

Bike-taxi riders protested outside Elante Mall, demanding the resumption and legal recognition of services after the suspension of licenses for major app-based aggregators like Ola and Uber left thousands without work. The Chandigarh app-based workers union highlighted the reliance of commuters on affordable bike taxis. They proposed easier permits and threatened further protests if demands aren't met.

Roundabout | Celebrating the legend of Panipat-born writer

This weekend, the literary and cinematic legend Khwaja Ahmad Abbas, born in Panipat, is honored by the online journal ‘Salahiyat’. Founder of 74 books, including the acclaimed novel ‘Inquilab,’ Abbas was pivotal in cinema, collaborating with Raj Kapoor on iconic films like *Awara* and *Shree 420*. His enduring legacy as a journalist began in 1934, shaping Indian media.

Uttar Pradesh will become leading state in AI, semiconductors, says Jitin Prasada

Uttar Pradesh is transforming into India’s leading hub for AI, semiconductors, and technology, according to Union Minister Jitin Prasada at the UP International Trade Show. He highlighted significant investments and the government's aim to develop a comprehensive manufacturing ecosystem across the state. This shift aligns with a national vision under Prime Minister Modi and Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, designed to enhance the state's innovation and manufacturing capabilities while preparing the youth as future technology leaders.

2027 assembly polls: Major players prepare for strategic moves on UP’s political chessboard

Major political players in Uttar Pradesh are strategizing for the 2027 assembly elections, focusing on caste dynamics and seat adjustments. The BJP leads with 255 seats from 2022, while the Samajwadi Party seeks to expand its support among marginalized communities. Congress signals possible alignment with SP. Changing alliances and new campaigns will shape the political landscape.

Rain opens familiar chapter of pain in Lucknow: Cave-ins, potholes, waterlogging

Following heavy rain, Lucknow experienced significant road cave-ins, large potholes, and flooded homes, igniting complaints from residents about inadequate municipal drainage maintenance. While officials professed ongoing drainage cleaning, waterlogged areas in Aminabad, Gomti Nagar, and Ashiana exacerbated travel hazards. Civic inspections were conducted in response to widespread damage, prompting calls for improved flood management strategies in vulnerable locales.

Couple among three killed as ambulance collides with trailer in Jhajjar

Three people, including an elderly couple and an ambulance driver, died in a collision between an ambulance and a trailer on the Gurugram-Jhajjar road near Badli on Saturday. The couple, Lakshmi and Som Prakash, were returning from medical treatment when the accident occurred; their son remains hospitalized. An FIR was filed against the trailer driver, who is currently at large.

Congress leaders target BJP govt over MSP issue

Haryana Congress leaders criticized the BJP government at a conference in Hansi, highlighting issues like unemployment and farmers' struggles. Rohtak MP Deepender Hooda condemned the BJP's ruling tenure, emphasizing unmet promises regarding minimum support prices for paddy. Leader of Opposition Bhupinder Singh Hooda pointed out rising drug use among youth due to joblessness, marking a decline in Haryana's employment under the BJP.

Unprecedented downpour hits Ganga Expressway in Unnao

Severe waterlogging on the Ganga Expressway near Unnao, caused by unprecedented rainfall totaling 65 mm, disrupted traffic on Saturday, leaving motorists stranded in nearly three feet of water. The expressway, promoted for its advanced flood management, is still under construction, prompting criticism about its quality. Authorities are addressing drainage issues to prevent further flooding amid predicted rain.

Random Forays | The humour in spiritual living

Many seek to fulfill life's spiritual purpose, yet true realization of oneness with the divine remains elusive. Despite distractions and societal skepticism, efforts in meditation are essential for progress. A humorous story illustrates common struggles on this path. Ultimately, while the spiritual journey is fraught with challenges, embracing joy can lighten the experience.

Prayagraj’s Mailhan Lake set for revival restoring Varuna flow

Efforts are underway to revive the Mailhan lake in Phulpur, aimed at restoring the Varuna river's year-round flow, threatened by pollution and water depletion. The initiative involves desilting three reservoirs and improving water retention, linked to the river's outlet. This project, part of the State Mission for Clean Ganga, also aims to enhance local agriculture and create jobs.