Jalandhar

Hoshiarpur district is launching 'Rising Sun' to eliminate single-use plastic from langars during the Mata Chintpurni Mela. Volunteers will monitor stalls, educate devotees, and manage waste. The initiative aims to provide a clean environment and serves as a model for other events. Awards will be given for compliance.

The Kapurthala Central Cooperative Bank Ltd. received the Best Performance Award at NABARD's 44th Foundation Day. The award, presented by Punjab's Finance Minister, recognized the bank's strong performance, customer focus, and innovation. Bank officials credited the staff and leadership, emphasizing future commitments to service, digital transformation, and community development.

Vajra Corps commemorated the 26th Kargil Vijay Diwas with tributes to fallen soldiers. Events honored war heroes and families, fostering national pride through educational programs and a wreath-laying ceremony. Local schools and organizations also participated, remembering the soldiers' bravery and sacrifice.

Sant Balbir Singh Seechewal raised concerns in Parliament about stranded Indian citizens serving in the Russian army. The government confirmed 127 Indians served, with 13 remaining (12 missing). The Ministry is working to locate the missing, ensure their safety, and facilitate the return of others.

The accused are on the run

Crime

Had gone to meet his friend, but did not return home

Pipelines, potholes filled with water torment drivers on dug up Manbro Chowk Road

Congress MLA Balwinder Singh Dhaliwal criticized AAP's anti-drug camps as publicity stunts, alleging the drug crisis has worsened under their rule. He claimed the camps lack community involvement, accusing AAP of hypocrisy and prioritizing media coverage over genuine action. Dhaliwal blamed the AAP government for the escalating drug trade.

Phagwara police are investigating two separate cases of alleged abduction of minor girls. In both instances, youths lured the girls with marriage promises. FIRs have been filed against the accused, who are currently being sought by authorities, while the girls are missing. Initial investigations suggest possible consent, which is legally invalid due to the minors' age.

Sapper Daljit Singh's father, Kirpal Singh, regularly attended Kargil Vijay Diwas for 25 years to remember his son who died at 26. Kirpal Singh passed away in February, leaving his younger son to attend the ceremony. Daljit Singh, despite being unwell, insisted on returning to war.

Bhavya Batra, a Class IX student, earned a spot in the United States Book of World Records for his artistic talent. He sketches famous personalities and creates paintings on religious and thoughtful themes, garnering widespread recognition. His principal praised his inspiring dedication to art.

Congress members protested in Jalandhar, blaming the AAP government and municipal administration for poor city conditions like clogged sewers, dirty water, and garbage. They accused officials of negligence and misleading claims about development. The Mayor responded, criticizing the Congress' past performance.

Owners plan to redevelop it ; veterans reminisce cherished moments tied to iconic landmark

Pistol, heroin recovered from 2 accused, one flees

2 absconding; members were involved in murder, loot, dacoity, etc in Goraya, Phillaur, Phagwara

A tipper driver allegedly killed a calf and assaulted a youth in Garhshankar. The youth was later threatened at the police station. Hindu groups protested Thursday night, accusing police of inaction and siding with the accused. Police are investigating complaints from both sides.

52 girls received vocational certificates and sewing machines from Sarb Naujawaan Sabha, supported by SOSVA Punjab, for completing courses. The initiative aims to promote self-employment and economic independence for women. Dignitaries emphasized the importance of skill development and encouraged the girls to pursue their entrepreneurial journeys.

Dr. Jaswant Rai overcame poverty, funding his education by selling ice candies. He became a District Research Officer after earning multiple degrees and authored 12 books. He improved school infrastructure in his villages and received a State Award for his dedication.

Navjot Singh has turned his lifelong love for turbans into a full-time business and a cultural movement

Eight individuals are charged with attacking a tractor driver with weapons and poison spray near Mowai village. A man from Lehanna Dhadda village is accused of sexually harassing a woman and assaulting her minor daughter. A Mehatpur villager is booked for kidnapping a minor girl.

The Indian government confirmed no plan for an AIIMS in Jalandhar under the current PMSSY phase. AIIMS-Bathinda is the only operational AIIMS in Punjab under this scheme. Super-specialty blocks were built in Amritsar and Patiala. Talks of an AIIMS in Jalandhar had previously occurred.

Pargat Singh criticized Kangana Ranaut for blaming Punjab for drug issues in Himachal Pradesh, calling it a biased political tactic. He challenged her to question the PM and Gujarat government, highlighting a large drug seizure from Gujarat ports, and labeled drug trafficking a national problem.

Pistol, heroin seized from the 2 accused 

Following recent accidents, the Deputy Commissioner ordered closure of highway cuts, installation of safety measures at accident-prone areas, and strict enforcement of traffic rules. Officials must identify hazardous locations by July 30. School vehicle safety and road drainage were also prioritized, alongside increased challans and road cleaning.