Chandigarh

Panjab University (PU), one of India’s premier academic institutions, is currently awaiting the Chancellor’s approval to proceed with its long-delayed Senate elections. Vice-Chancellor Renu Vig confirmed that the university has completed all necessary preparatory steps and is now awaiting final authorization from the Chancellor’s office before announcing the official election schedule.

Punjab University has intensified security measures and witnessed heavy police deployment ahead of a planned campus shutdown called by students demonstrating against administrative decisions and alleged policy shortcomings. The campus, typically a hub of academic activity, has transitioned into a controlled zone with law-enforcement personnel stationed at key entry points and strategic internal locations. Students have expressed dissatisfaction over issues ranging from fee structures to campus governance, prompting calls for a peaceful strike.

Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann reaffirmed the state’s unwavering commitment to safeguarding its constitutional and administrative rights following the Centre’s decision to withdraw plans to bring Panjab University (PU) under central jurisdiction. Mann asserted that Punjab will not compromise on its autonomy or historical entitlements, noting that PU holds a distinctive legacy linked to the state’s cultural, academic and political evolution. The announcement comes after months of debate and opposition from political leaders, student bodies and academic stakeholders.

Recent studies have revealed dangerously high levels of lead and uranium in children residing in Punjab and Chandigarh, raising urgent public health concerns. Experts warn that prolonged exposure to these heavy metals can cause developmental delays, neurological disorders, and long-term health complications. Investigations point to environmental contamination from industrial effluents, pesticide usage, and aging water infrastructure as potential sources.

AI Express is set to strengthen its domestic footprint by introducing new direct flights to Ahmedabad, Chandigarh, and Dehradun, enhancing connectivity across key Tier-I and Tier-II cities. The expansion aligns with the airline’s strategic objective to serve growing passenger demand in business, leisure, and transit travel segments. These routes are expected to improve access for travelers while contributing to regional tourism and commerce.

India’s nationwide civil defence exercise, codenamed Operation Shield, has been postponed in several key border states, including Gujarat, Rajasthan, Jammu and Kashmir, Punjab, Haryana, and Chandigarh. Scheduled for May 29, 2025, the exercise was designed to enhance readiness against aerial threats and cross-border incursions. Administrative constraints prompted the delay, though coordination efforts among local governments and volunteer forces remain active.

A sweeping wave of blackouts across more than 15 Indian cities on Thursday evening, including Chandigarh, Amritsar, Pathankot, and Srinagar, marked a sharp escalation in Indo-Pak tensions following cross-border drone and missile attacks. Pakistan’s attempted strikes on Indian military installations prompted immediate retaliation and enhanced defensive posturing by Indian forces. Civilian areas were urged to switch off lights and stay indoors amid sirens and emergency alerts.

A sweeping security response was triggered across Punjab, Haryana, and Chandigarh on Thursday night following a spike in military activity between India and Pakistan. A series of blackouts were enforced in major districts after drones were sighted and explosions reportedly heard near the border. Sirens echoed across towns like Pathankot and Jalandhar, while civil authorities declared restricted airspace and heightened surveillance.

The Indian government has delayed a crucial meeting scheduled for May 4 with farmer leaders, citing the need for the inclusion of Punjab state government officials. This decision comes after significant tension, with farmer representatives threatening to boycott the talks if Punjab's involvement was confirmed. The dispute stems from the controversial eviction of farmers at border points earlier this year, deepening the divide between the farming community and the Punjab government.

Vodafone Idea (VIL) has expanded its 5G network to Chandigarh and Patna, with plans to bring 5G services to Delhi and Bengaluru by May 2025. This follows a successful 5G launch in Mumbai, where the service has already gained significant traction. With over 70% of eligible users enjoying the new service, VIL is enhancing its market position by offering unlimited 5G data on select plans. The company aims to capture the growing demand for high-speed connectivity, including applications such as streaming, gaming, and cloud services.