10 lakh new ration cards to be issued, says Punjab CM 

Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann announced the issuance of 10 lakh new ration cards, prioritizing vulnerable families starting July 22. The process emphasizes transparency through digital verification and tracking via online applications. Mann criticized past governments for politicizing welfare, asserting the new system promotes accountability, ensuring genuine beneficiaries receive 5 kg of wheat and nutrition kits.

Thousands of farmers stage protest in Prayagraj over agrarian, civic issues

Thousands of farmers, led by BKU’s state youth president Anuj Singh, protested in Civil Lines to demand solutions to critical agrarian issues despite Rakesh Tikait's absence. Key concerns included fertilizer availability, electricity supply, and land compensation. Following the protest, local officials promised action within a week; failure to address issues could prompt a larger agitation. Traffic was severely disrupted.

Punjab monsoon session from August 3 to 10

The Punjab Vidhan Sabha's monsoon session will occur from August 3 to 10, with a bill to amend the anti-sacrilege law under consideration. Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann revealed that the Akal Takht’s suggestions regarding the law are under legal review. The government will also address police recruitment reforms and introduce various other bills during the session. The cabinet’s recent decisions aim to enhance employment and innovation in the state.

Guest Column | To beat job blues, Punjab must overhaul its employment strategy

Punjab is missing out on its demographic dividend due to inadequate employment policies, with working-age individuals comprising 69.3% of its population. High youth unemployment, reaching 20.2%, reflects this failure. The agricultural sector's mechanization has further diminished job opportunities. A focused employment strategy, including promoting overseas jobs and private sector growth, is essential for future economic stability.

Prayagraj revamps ‘Khet Talab Yojana’ to boost water security and farm incomes

The Uttar Pradesh government is revamping the “Khet Talab Yojana” to enhance transparency in beneficiary selection and promote efficient water use, addressing declining groundwater levels in Prayagraj. The district aims to construct 12 farm ponds this financial year. Farmers receive Rs 52,500 for each pond, which supports auxiliary activities like fish farming. Recent climate changes have reduced Prayagraj’s annual rainfall to 835 mm.

Pawar, Uddhav visit Jantar Mantar; Raj slams ‘lame duck’ PM

Opposition parties in Maharashtra rallied behind the Cockroach Janata Party’s protest for educational reforms following a violent police response in Delhi. Notable leaders, including Sharad Pawar and Uddhav Thackeray, visited protesters, condemning government actions and demanding accountability. Amid plans for a Maharashtra Bandh on July 23, leaders criticized Prime Minister Modi for inaction regarding education issues.

Chandigarh: Final-year MBBS student falls to death from 6th floor of GMCH-32

A final-year MBBS student at Government Medical College and Hospital (GMCH) died after falling from the sixth floor, suspected to be a suicide, though investigations continue. This incident marks the second suspected suicide of a medical student at GMCH this year, raising mental health concerns. Counseling sessions are offered weekly. The student lived in Chandigarh, and authorities are probing his last messages.

167 potholes turn Airport Road into obstacle course

The 21-km Airport Road in Mohali, vital for connecting the airport to key hubs, is plagued by 167 potholes along a 14-km stretch, endangering commuters, especially motorcyclists. Despite reduced traffic post the Bharatmala corridor's opening, safety concerns persist, with authorities pledging repairs post-monsoon. Experts stress road maintenance is a legal responsibility, vital for preventing accidents.

10 Breathable kurta picks for the hot and humid weather

Breathable cotton kurtas are essential for comfort during hot, humid weather, offering a lightweight and airy solution for daily wear, office settings, and festive occasions. Their versatility allows pairing with various bottoms, ensuring a polished look. This article highlights ten stylish, comfortable cotton kurtas ideal for enhancing your wardrobe, emphasizing practicality and minimalism in humid conditions.

Hoop earrings have become my personal favourite, and I can't stop wearing them

Hindustan Times highlights the versatility and appeal of hoop earrings, recommending seven top picks suitable for various occasions. These earrings, ranging from classic to modern designs, feature lightweight materials and finishes that enhance both casual and formal outfits while maintaining comfort. Their enduring popularity lies in their ability to complement diverse styles effortlessly.

Chandigarh: Heritage furniture withdrawn from Spain sale after MEA steps in

The proposed auction of Chandigarh's heritage furniture in Barcelona has been halted after the Ministry of External Affairs intervened, marking a diplomatic win for the UT administration. They previously stopped another auction in Paris. Allegations suggest these items were illegally removed. The administration aims to implement measures to prevent future unauthorized sales of heritage assets.

Spider Man Brand New Day: Sadie Sink drops big clue about her role

Sadie Sink confirmed her role in the upcoming Spider-Man Brand New Day film while keeping details ambiguous, stating she is not Spider-Man or Aunt May but is indeed part of the cast. With only a week until release, Marvel has tightly guarded her character's identity. Sink praised Tom Holland's welcoming demeanor during filming, hinting at her significant involvement in the MCU.

Brothers arrested for killing parents over property in Ghaziabad

Two brothers were arrested in Ghaziabad for allegedly beating their parents to death over a property dispute. The couple, aged 58 and 54, died after an argument over inheritance during the 28-year-old son’s birthday. The suspects, both cab drivers, were detained after a tenant alerted police. Family tensions had escalated, leading to this tragic event.

Illegal liquor home delivery racket busted in Noida; one held

Gautam Budh Nagar excise officials arrested a 24-year-old man accused of running an illegal alcohol home delivery racket in Sector 73, recovering 27 bottles of imported liquor lacking mandatory QR codes. The liquor, sourced from Haryana, was delivered after phone orders. Authorities are pursuing the absconding kingpin and continuing efforts against illegal liquor operations in the district.

Tanker with Indian crew was hit by US while drifting near Hormuz, had engine off

A US airstrike on June 10 killed three Indian sailors aboard the drifting oil tanker Settebello in the Gulf of Oman, which was carrying Iranian oil. Despite multiple warnings from US forces, the crew, largely asleep at the time, failed to respond. The vessel had been inactive and awaiting oil transfer, clearing it of US sanctions.

Yeida’s Electronics Manufacturing Cluster gets environmental go-ahead

The Yamuna Expressway Industrial Development Authority announced that the Electronics Manufacturing Cluster (EMC) in Sector 10 has received environmental clearance, facilitating its development near Noida International Airport. Spanning 206 acres with significant infrastructure, the ₹339-crore project aims to create an integrated ecosystem for various electronics, while emphasizing environmental sustainability and community responsibility initiatives in surrounding villages.

Noida residents flag poor upkeep of parks in Sector 46

Noida’s Sector 46 residents have expressed concerns over poorly maintained parks in A-Block, alleging substandard renovation work carried out two months ago. The Resident Welfare Association demands action against the contractor due to overgrown grass and damaged pathways making parks unsafe for families. The horticulture department attributed maintenance issues to recent rains but acknowledged complaints about the repair quality and promised prompt action.

Driver killed, 1 hurt as truck falls into drain in Gr Noida road crash

A 28-year-old truck driver, Amir from Bulandshahr, died and another person was injured in Greater Noida after his truck, laden with iron rebars, veered into a drain and crashed into a power transformer while trying to avoid an auto. The collision caused the rebars to crush the driver’s cabin. Investigations are ongoing, with a case to be registered after the family’s complaint.

Who are Pamela, Robert Jr Warner? Meet Malcolm Jamal Warner's parents

Tenisha Warner is suing her late husband Malcolm-Jamal Warner’s mother, Pamela Warner, over an alleged breach of a prenuptial agreement, seeking over $1.2 million in compensation for unpaid financial benefits, including a promised life insurance policy and salary. Malcolm, known for his role as Theo Huxtable, passed away on the anniversary of his drowning in Costa Rica.

Statehood imperative for restoring J&K’s special status: Omar

Omar Abdullah emphasized the necessity of statehood for restoring Jammu and Kashmir's special status, asserting that Article 370's revival is meaningless without it. Following a protest in Delhi, he criticized opposition parties for their inaction and highlighted the central government's unfulfilled promises post-2019 revocation of J&K's status. The National Conference's struggle for statehood will persist amid political challenges.

‘More power to all of you’: Marathi, Hindi celebrities voice support for protesting students

Mumbai: Following a police crackdown on student protesters in Delhi, several film industry celebrities voiced support for activist Sonam Wangchuk and his movement demanding accountability over examination leaks. Notable figures like Preity Zinta and Riteish Deshmukh emphasized the importance of listening to the youth, asserting they are vital to India's future. The protests highlight rising student frustrations with government inaction.

Aerotropolis project: GMADA announces ₹23,457 crore for 3,522 acres acquired in 8 Mohali villages

The Greater Mohali Area Development Authority (GMADA) has announced a ₹23,457 crore compensation for 3,522.98 acres under the Aerotropolis expansion, initiating an online, faceless land pooling process. This aims to enhance transparency, anonymity in applications, and faster processing while exceeding previous compensation rates. The revised Land Pooling Policy also promises increased benefits for landowners involved.

Why Spain are already favourites for the 2030 World Cup

As discussions for the 2030 World Cup heat up, FIFA President Gianni Infantino hints at a potential 64-team tournament, primarily hosted by Morocco, Portugal, and Spain, with commemorative matches in Uruguay, Argentina, and Paraguay. With Spain favored, Italy seeks redemption after years of absence, while France and young talents like Kylian Mbappé pose substantial threats.

Guillermo Ochoa calls time on iconic career after 22 years and six World Cups

Mexican goalkeeper Guillermo Ochoa, hailed as one of the greatest in history, announced his retirement after 22 years in professional soccer. At 41, he confirmed his decision post-World Cup speculation, stating, “I hung up my gloves” after appearing in six World Cups. Ochoa began his career with Club América in 2004, achieving notable success both domestically and internationally.

BJP flays Omar for Delhi protest as J&K battles rain fury

The BJP criticized Chief Minister Omar Abdullah for attending a National Conference protest in Delhi while rescue efforts continued in flood-affected Jammu and Kashmir, where 22 people have died. Opposition leader Sunil Sharma demanded swift aid and compensation for victims, claiming the CM prioritized politics over humanitarian needs amidst ongoing devastation. The BJP urged Abdullah to focus on the crisis.

UP Cabinet clears 500-bed working women’s hostel in Varanasi

The Uttar Pradesh Cabinet has authorized the transfer of 6,000 square meters of government land to the women welfare department for a 500-bed working women’s hostel in Varanasi, part of the Chief Minister’s Working Women’s Hostel Scheme. This initiative aims to provide safe, affordable accommodation for the increasing number of working women in the state. Additionally, a 112-seat hostel for female students at BHU was approved, funded under the Accelerated Economic Development Scheme.

Mohali: Court acquits 4 in 12-yr-old PUNSUP wheat scam case

A local court acquitted four former officials of the Punjab State Civil Supplies Corporation of embezzling ₹2.56 crore in wheat, citing insufficient evidence from the vigilance bureau’s ambiguous investigation. The case stemmed from allegations of missing stock in 2013-14, but the court concluded the prosecution failed to prove misappropriation, indicating stock discrepancies rather than theft.

Lalit Modi gets relief as tribunal quashes ED penalty in IPL 2009 FEMA case

In a significant ruling for Lalit Modi, a tribunal has annulled the Enforcement Directorate's 2018 penalty related to the 2009 IPL held in South Africa, which was deemed a FEMA violation due to unapproved forex remittances. The tribunal found these transactions were Current Account, not Capital Account, relieving Modi of any statutory compliance responsibility. This ruling concludes a long-standing legal matter.

Lucknow: Copper thieves target transformers, plunge localities into darkness

A series of transformer copper thefts in Lucknow is causing extended power outages and revealing serious security issues. Recent incidents, including a theft in Mayapuri Colony, have disrupted electricity for many localities and led to significant financial losses. Officials suspect organized gangs exploiting weak monitoring and the high resale value of copper, prompting police investigations.

Panchkula: 10 days after being hit by car, Pinjore teen succumbs to injuries

A 15-year-old girl tragically died from injuries sustained after being struck by an unidentified car while crossing Kalka road to visit the Mango Mela. Initially, her family did not report the incident but later approached the police, leading to a case against the driver for negligence. Similarly, a 24-year-old sanitation worker, Rofiqul Islam, died following an accident on Kharar-Landran Road, prompting legal action against another unidentified driver.