Punjab

Ramlila in Sector 23 to Integrate New Technology and Offer a Fresh Experience: Ajay Joshi

Ramlila in Sector 23 to Integrate New Technology and Offer a Fresh Experience: Ajay Joshi

Chandigarh (Gurpreet): The Jagriti Ram Leela Committee is presenting a unique experience of Ramlila this year in Sector 23, Chandigarh. Committee President Ajay Joshi, while speaking to National Times, stated that the 10-day event will feature cutting-edge light and sound technology, making the traditional performance more engaging and impactful. The special effects, fancy lights, imported fireworks, and Punjabi dhol will add to the liveliness of the event.Joshi mentioned that several city dignitaries have been invited and will attend on different days. He added that staging Ramlila annually aims to keep the younger generation connected to traditional culture and values, teaching…
Read More
Punjab Police Arrest 89 in Statewide Crackdown, Drug War Marks 204th Day

Punjab Police Arrest 89 in Statewide Crackdown, Drug War Marks 204th Day

Chandigarh, September 21, 2025 — Punjab’s war against drugs, spearheaded by Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann under the “Yudh Nashian Virudh” campaign, entered its 204th consecutive day on Sunday. Police across the state carried out raids at 374 locations, resulting in the arrest of 89 drug smugglers and the registration of 78 FIRs. With the latest action, the total number of smugglers arrested has climbed to 30,440 since the campaign began.During the raids, the police seized 4.5 kg of heroin, 2.3 kg of ganja, 1,524 intoxicant tablets and capsules, and ₹59,810 in drug money. Officials said the operations are part…
Read More
Chandigarh Hosts ‘Namo Yuva Run’ to Promote Fitness and Drug-Free India

Chandigarh Hosts ‘Namo Yuva Run’ to Promote Fitness and Drug-Free India

National Times Bureau :- Chandigarh witnessed the grand launch of the ‘Namo Yuva Run’, flagged off by Rajya Sabha MP Satnam Singh Sandhu, as part of efforts to promote a drug-free India. The event saw massive participation from students, athletes, fitness enthusiasts, and fitness icons, reflecting the growing momentum of youth engagement in health and wellness initiatives. Special Appearance by Olympian Babita PhogatOlympic wrestler and Arjuna Awardee Babita Phogat made a special appearance at the event, inspiring participants with her achievements. The run was organized under the ‘Seva Pakhwada’ initiative, coinciding with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s 75th birthday celebrations. Route…
Read More
Bathinda Blast: Army Operation Ongoing, 90% Explosives Neutralized

Bathinda Blast: Army Operation Ongoing, 90% Explosives Neutralized

National Times Bureau :- The army-led operation to safely dispose of explosives at a Bathinda residence continues, a week after a blast at Gurpreet Singh’s house. According to officials, 90 percent of the seized explosive material has been destroyed so far, with the remaining stock scheduled for neutralization in the coming day. The Counter Explosive Device Unit, forensic team, and bomb disposal squad reached the site from Delhi early Friday morning. The operation, which began at 9 a.m., has been carried out under strict safety protocols, with the area cordoned off to prevent any civilian access. Three small blasts occurred…
Read More
Ludhiana Police Recover Kidnapped Toddler, Woman Taken Into Custody

Ludhiana Police Recover Kidnapped Toddler, Woman Taken Into Custody

National Times Bureau :- A one-year-old toddler, who was kidnapped from Ludhiana Railway Station two days ago, has been safely recovered from Giaspura, police said. A woman identified as Anita has been arrested in connection with the case, along with a young man who, according to initial investigations, is the child’s foster brother. During interrogation, the woman revealed that her previous child had died, which left her distressed for a long time. She said that upon seeing the toddler playing, she decided to take the child home to raise him. She also mentioned that she was planning to take the…
Read More
Punjab Taps Market for Rs 1,000 Crore Loan Amid Ongoing Borrowing Trend

Punjab Taps Market for Rs 1,000 Crore Loan Amid Ongoing Borrowing Trend

Chandigarh (Gurpreet Singh): The Punjab government has raised eyebrows yet again by borrowing Rs 1,000 crore through the issuance of State Development Loans (SDLs), despite consistent public assurances that the state's treasury remains in stable condition. The loan was raised on September 18 at an interest rate of 6.98%, according to official data. This marks the sixth straight month the state has sought funds from the open market, further intensifying concerns about its long-term fiscal roadmap. Repayment Due by 2033 As per the official notification, the borrowed amount will be paid back over a period of eight years, with the…
Read More
BREAKING: CM Bhagwant Mann Suspends Three Senior Officers Over Punjab Flood Mishandling

BREAKING: CM Bhagwant Mann Suspends Three Senior Officers Over Punjab Flood Mishandling

Chandigarh (Gurpreet Singh): In a major development, Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann has taken decisive action against senior officials in connection with the recent flood crisis in the state. Three senior officers have been suspended for alleged negligence and failure to respond effectively during the emergency situation. This came after the gates of Madhopur headworks were left broken during the floods. It is being reported that the suspension orders were issued following an internal review of the administrative lapses that worsened the impact of flooding in multiple districts earlier this monsoon season. Without naming the officers immediately, official sources confirmed…
Read More
Cross-Border Drug Smuggling Operation Busted in Amritsar; One Arrested with Heroin and Cash

Cross-Border Drug Smuggling Operation Busted in Amritsar; One Arrested with Heroin and Cash

Amritsar: In a swift and targeted operation, the Amritsar Rural Police have unearthed a cross-border drug trafficking network, leading to the arrest of a key suspect and the seizure of narcotics and illegal cash. The accused, identified as Shankar Singh, a resident of Guru Ki Wadali in Amritsar, was apprehended during the intelligence-led operation. Authorities recovered 6.286 kilograms of heroin, along with ₹4 lakh in suspected drug proceeds. According to police sources, Singh is believed to have maintained direct contact with international drug suppliers, indicating strong overseas links behind the smuggling racket. The consignment, likely smuggled in from across the…
Read More
Punjab Marks End of Monsoon Season with Light Rainfall and Rising Water Levels

Punjab Marks End of Monsoon Season with Light Rainfall and Rising Water Levels

Ludhiana (Gurpreet Singh): The southwest monsoon draws to a close in Punjab today, bringing an end to a season marked by intermittent showers and high humidity. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecasted light rainfall in several districts as the monsoon system gradually exits the region. As the season wraps up, temperatures across the state are expected to dip slightly, offering relief after weeks of muggy weather. According to officials, Bathinda recorded Friday’s peak temperature at 36.9°C, while the lowest daytime high was observed in Pathankot at 30°C. Mild rain and occasional thunder are likely to continue in isolated pockets…
Read More
Punjab CM Announces Major Price Cut on Verka Dairy Products from September 22

Punjab CM Announces Major Price Cut on Verka Dairy Products from September 22

Chandigarh, September 19 – Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann has announced a significant reduction in the prices of Verka milk and dairy products to provide relief to the public.The Chief Minister said Verka, a trusted brand of the state’s farmer cooperative Milkfed, has decided to lower the prices of its popular dairy items. The revised rates will take effect from the morning of September 22, 2025. He added that the price cuts are aligned with the Union Government’s GST 2.0 reforms, which reduced taxes on essential dairy products. Mann emphasized that such measures will further strengthen the state’s cooperative…
Read More