Re-determine annual grant: PU reminds UGC after BOF meeting

Panjab University (PU) has sent a fifth reminder to the University Grants Commission (UGC) requesting a re-determination of its annual grant due to the implementation of revised pay scales for teaching and non-teaching staff. The university has also asked for the grant to be updated and for a one-time grant to pay arrears. The revised pay scales are effective from 1 January 2016 and will cost a total of INR334.4 crore ($43.8m). PU is funded by both the UGC and the Punjab government.

Gautam Budh Nagar: Volunteers to get disaster response training

100 volunteers from Gautam Budh Nagar will undergo 12-day disaster response training in Lucknow, becoming "Aapda Mitras" skilled in rescue techniques, first aid, and emergency response to enhance community-level disaster preparedness.

Bomb hoax on Katra-bound bus sparks panic in Samrala

A Katra-bound bus received a bomb threat, prompting swift evacuation of 45 passengers near Samrala. Police, bomb disposal teams, and senior officers responded, searching the vehicle. The hoax was resolved without incident, with authorities working to trace the caller.

We need to adopt AI than fear it: Piyush Goyal

Piyush Goyal encourages students to embrace AI, highlighting its potential in agriculture and other sectors. He emphasized responsible technology adoption, predicted India's economic growth, and stressed AI's role in transforming education and opportunities.

Extensive emergency mock drills conducted across Gautam Budh Nagar

Gautam Budh Nagar police conducted extensive emergency mock drills across Noida, involving multiple agencies at high-traffic locations. The exercises simulated crisis scenarios like terrorist attacks and fires, aiming to improve inter-agency coordination and emergency response capabilities.

Drug racket busted: Three held with heroin, 2 pistols in Ferozepur

Police in Ferozepur busted a cross-border drug racket, arresting three suspects with 5.4kg heroin and two pistols. Investigations suggest drone deliveries from Pakistan, with cases registered under NDPS and Arms Acts.

Ludhiana: After 2 years, civil hospital ICU reopens as new posts sanctioned

After two years, Ludhiana's civil hospital reopens ICU with 4 beds and ventilator support. Newly sanctioned staff will help handle emergencies, reducing patient referrals to distant hospitals and providing critical local healthcare services.

Air raid sirens, blackouts: Mock drills held across Punjab, Hry, HP

Mock drills simulating emergencies like airstrikes and blackouts were conducted across Punjab, Haryana, and Himachal Pradesh. The nationwide civil defence exercise tested emergency response systems, public preparedness, and inter-agency coordination amid rising security tensions.

Punjab cancels leaves of all cops

Punjab Police cancels all personnel leaves due to escalating India-Pakistan tensions. Border state on high alert, with officials preparing for potential challenges. Additional measures include increased security checks, army vehicle support, and healthcare readiness.

Uphaar Cinema tragedy: SC issues notice to Delhi govt on status of trauma centre

Supreme Court seeks Delhi government's response on implementing a trauma centre for Uphaar Cinema fire victims, using ₹60 crore compensation from Ansal brothers, ten years after the original 2015 court order directing its construction.

PWD begins work on city’s first high-security prison

Delhi is constructing its first high-security prison in Narela, costing ₹140 crore. The 256-cell facility will house hardcore criminals, featuring advanced surveillance technology, isolated cells, and a unique starfish-like design to prevent inmate communication.

NHRC report flags violations at Tihar Jail No 4

NHRC report reveals severe human rights violations at Tihar Jail No. 4, including overcrowding, extortion, discriminatory treatment, and inhumane conditions for inmates. Jail officials transferred, investigation launched after findings of systematic abuse and bribery.

Mayor approves hiring of new waste management contractor

Mayor Raja Iqbal Singh approves hiring a new six-month waste management contractor for Central and West zones, addressing garbage collection issues. The estimated cost is ₹22-25 crore per zone, with plans to float a longer-term tender in the coming months.

Mann, Kejriwal cancel scheduled events

In response to Indian air strikes on Pakistan terror launch pads, AAP leaders Arvind Kejriwal and Bhagwant Mann cancelled scheduled events in Punjab. Both expressed solidarity with the armed forces and unity against terrorism.

Schools in Punjab border districts to remain closed

Schools in Punjab's border districts—Ferozepur, Pathankot, Fazilka, Amritsar, and Gurdaspur—closed following border tensions with Pakistan after military strikes. Ferozepur extended closure to two days, while PTU deferred semester exams.

Delhi logs light rain, yellow alert on till Friday

Delhi experienced light rainfall and lightning, with IMD issuing a yellow alert for Thursday and Friday. Temperatures range from 24-38°C, with potential thunderstorms and winds up to 50 kmph. Scattered rain expected to continue for several days.