Haryana Fully Prepared for Nationwide Civil Defence Mock Drill

State Readiness and Coordination at Its Peak Haryana has declared full readiness for the upcoming nationwide civil defence mock drill. The state government, in coordination with central authorities, has completed all necessary preparations to ensure a smooth and effective exercise. Home Secretary of Haryana, Sanjeev Kaushal, confirmed that all districts have been directed to participate actively. The drill aims to test emergency response mechanisms and enhance preparedness among local authorities and citizens. Focus on Public Participation and Awareness A key objective of the mock drill is to educate and involve the public in civil defence measures. Officials are conducting awareness campaigns across cities and villages to inform citizens about their roles during emergencies. Schools, colleges, and community centres are playing a pivotal role in spreading this message. Multi-Agency Collaboration Ensures Efficiency The exercise will involve multiple agencies, including fire services, police, health departments, and disaster response teams. Their coordinated efforts will simulate real-life crisis scenarios, helping identify gaps and improve inter-departmental communication. Mock Drill to Cover Urban and Rural Areas Unlike previous drills, this year’s exercise will cover both urban and rural areas equally. Special focus is on high-risk zones such as industrial hubs, transport terminals, and densely populated regions. District administrations are setting up control rooms to monitor activities and provide real-time feedback. Senior officials will evaluate the performance of each district based on predefined parameters. Technology Integration Enhances Response Capabilities Modern technology, including GIS mapping, GPS tracking, and mobile applications, will support the drill. These tools will help track response times, resource allocation, and communication efficiency during the simulation. The initiative reflects Haryana’s commitment to building a resilient and well-prepared civil defence system capable of handling any kind of emergency. Source: times of india

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Ancient Stone Age Tool-Making Site Discovered in Haryana

Archaeologists Unearth Prehistoric Hub in Mangar Bani Researchers have discovered an ancient Stone Age site in Mangar Bani, located in Haryana’s Aravalli hills near Gurgaon. The site reveals evidence of early human activity, including stone tools and flakes, suggesting it was once a center for tool-making. This is the first major prehistoric site found in northern India outside traditional river valleys like those in central and southern regions. Experts believe the tools show advanced craftsmanship similar to techniques seen in Africa and Europe, hinting at early human migration or cultural exchange. Ideal Environment for Early Humans The rugged terrain, quartzite rocks, and nearby water sources made Mangar Bani an ideal location for prehistoric settlements. Early humans likely used the area for shelter and resource access, shaping tools from locally available stone. Threats from Urban Expansion Despite its historical significance, the site faces threats from rapid urbanization around Gurgaon. Conservationists warn that unchecked development could destroy not only the archaeological remains but also the region’s biodiversity and ecological balance. Call for Protection and Further Study Scientists urge authorities to protect the site and allow further research. They hope future studies will shed light on how early humans adapted to environmental changes and how human populations spread across South Asia. The discovery at Mangar Bani offers a rare glimpse into India’s deep prehistoric past. It reminds us that beneath modern infrastructure lie layers of human history waiting to be explored. Source: times of india

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Why Gurugram’s Real Estate Market Is Booming Despite Flat Salaries

Demand Driven by Job Growth and Lifestyle Shifts Despite stagnant salaries, Gurugram’s real estate market is thriving. According to top real estate broker Sandeep Shikhrani, the surge in property purchases isn’t fueled by salary hikes but by job growth and lifestyle changes. Gurugram continues to attract professionals due to its expanding IT sector and improved infrastructure. With new companies setting up offices and startups emerging, employment opportunities are rising. This job influx directly translates into housing demand, even if individual incomes remain flat. Pent-Up Demand and Migration Trends The pandemic created a backlog of buyers who delayed home purchases due to uncertainty. Now, that pent-up demand is being released as confidence returns. Additionally, people from smaller cities and neighboring states are moving to Gurugram for better career prospects, further boosting the market. Affordability Through Lower Interest Rates Home loans are more accessible than ever. Low interest rates have made mortgages cheaper, encouraging first-time buyers and investors alike. Many are choosing to buy rather than rent, seeing property ownership as both a necessity and an investment. Shift Toward Affordable Housing Buyers are adjusting their expectations to fit within stagnant income levels. There’s a clear trend toward affordable and mid-income housing, with developers focusing on budget-friendly options. Premium properties still sell, but the real growth lies in accessible price segments. Real Estate as a Hedge Against Inflation Amid rising inflation, many see real estate as a stable asset. Property values in Gurugram have shown resilience, making homeownership a smart financial move. Investors are also stepping in, betting on future appreciation. In summary, Gurugram’s real estate boom is not about rising salaries—it’s about jobs, shifting priorities, and favorable financing. As long as employment remains strong and homes remain affordable, demand will continue to grow. Source: business today

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School Bus Safety Lapses in Gurgaon: 31 Buses Penalised

A recent inspection of 538 school buses in Gurgaon has exposed serious safety violations, leading to 31 challans being issued. The violations have raised concerns over student safety, highlighting the need for strict enforcement of the Surakshit School Vahan Policy (SSVP). Officials stress that schools must prioritize compliance to prevent potential accidents and security risks. Source Times of India. Major Safety Violations Identified: Authorities Crack Down Gurgaon Deputy Commissioner Ajay Kumar has directed sub-divisional magistrates to compile detailed data on schools and their transportation facilities. Schools found violating safety regulations will face strict penalties and legal action. The administration is also considering regular audits to ensure compliance. A Collective Responsibility Ensuring safe school transport requires cooperation from school authorities, transport providers, parents, and government agencies. Adhering to strict safety standards is not just a legal duty—it is a moral responsibility to protect children and prevent avoidable accidents. Source Times of India. ​

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Gurugram to Rewari in 45 Minutes? This New Expressway Will Cut Travel Time by 50 PC

A newly inaugurated expressway has significantly reduced travel time between Gurugram and Rewari by 50%. This infrastructure development is poised to enhance regional connectivity and stimulate economic growth. The expressway, designed to alleviate traffic congestion, offers a more efficient route for commuters and transporters. By bypassing previously congested areas, it ensures a smoother and faster journey between the two cities. This improvement is expected to benefit daily commuters, businesses, and logistics operations, leading to increased productivity and reduced transportation costs. Enhanced connectivity often attracts investments, promotes tourism, and facilitates the movement of goods and services. The expressway is anticipated to serve as a catalyst for regional development, creating new opportunities for local communities and contributing to the overall economic prosperity of the area.

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Delhi Weather and AQI Today: Check weather forecast for January 28, 2025

On January 28, 2025, Delhi experienced clear skies with temperatures ranging from a low of 9.05°C to a high of 24.0°C. The relative humidity was recorded at 24%, accompanied by winds blowing at 24 km/h. The sun rose at 7:11 AM and set at 5:56 PM. The Air Quality Index (AQI) stood at 193, placing it in the ‘moderate’ category. Individuals with respiratory conditions, such as asthma, and children were advised to limit prolonged outdoor activities. Looking ahead, the forecast for January 29 predicted temperatures between 13.33°C and 24.16°C, with humidity levels around 22%. The following week was expected to maintain clear skies, with temperatures gradually increasing, reaching up to 24.43°C by February 4. In comparison, other major cities on January 28 reported the following conditions: Mumbai: 26.39°C, scattered clouds Kolkata: 20.25°C, clear skies Chennai: 26.75°C, overcast Bengaluru: 23.75°C, scattered clouds Hyderabad: 28.3°C, overcast Ahmedabad: 28.28°C, broken clouds Residents were encouraged to enjoy the pleasant weather while taking necessary precautions against moderate air pollution levels.

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Gurgaon Approves ₹900 Crore Infrastructure Projects

The Gurgaon Metropolitan Development Authority (GMDA) has greenlit infrastructure projects worth ₹900 crore to modernize the city’s urban framework. These initiatives focus on constructing flyovers, upgrading sewer systems, and renovating roads. By addressing traffic congestion and sanitation issues, the projects aim to enhance the quality of life for residents and commuters. Flyovers to Ease Traffic Congestion The GMDA plans to build several new flyovers at key intersections across the city. These structures will reduce travel time and ease traffic bottlenecks during peak hours. Engineers will design and construct these flyovers to handle increasing vehicle volumes while ensuring durability and safety. Officials believe these projects will significantly decongest major roads and improve connectivity. Upgrading Sewer Systems for Better Sanitation The GMDA is also upgrading the city’s sewer systems to prevent waterlogging and improve sanitation. Workers will lay new pipelines and repair existing ones to ensure proper waste disposal. These upgrades will address public health concerns and create a cleaner environment. Both residential areas and commercial hubs will benefit from this initiative, which aims to make Gurgaon more livable. Road Renovations for Enhanced Connectivity The approved funds will support extensive road renovation projects. Contractors will widen and resurface roads to eliminate potholes and uneven surfaces, ensuring safer commutes. Improved road infrastructure will also boost economic activity by enabling faster movement of goods and services. By prioritizing these developments, Gurgaon demonstrates its commitment to becoming a sustainable and modern city. Residents eagerly await the completion of these projects, which promise to transform their daily lives and make the city more efficient and livable. Source: Times of India

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Gurgaon Braces for Monsoon-Like Rains Amid Infrastructure Woes

City Grapples with Flooding and Chaos A fresh spell of moderate rain on Tuesday plunged Gurgaon into chaos, exposing the city’s fragile infrastructure. Waterlogging paralyzed key roads such as the Delhi-Gurgaon Expressway, Dwarka Expressway, and MG Road, causing massive traffic disruptions. Commuters endured slow-moving traffic, especially during peak evening hours, as low-lying areas like Sohna Road and Golf Course Extension submerged under water. Residents expressed frustration over recurring issues. “Every time it rains, the national highway gets choked,” said commuter Raghav Sharma. Sector 62 resident Arjun Kapoor sarcastically noted how a short drizzle led to an eight-hour power outage. Girish Agarwal from Sector 23 blamed clogged stormwater drains filled with garbage and plastic for worsening the situation year after year. IMD Warns of More Rain Ahead The India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued an orange alert for thunderstorms, lightning, and heavy rain across south Haryana, including Gurgaon. The weather department forecasts light to moderate rainfall until June 22, with thunderstorms and gusty winds expected. Heavy showers at isolated places are likely during this period. Rainfall reached 25 mm by 5:30 pm on Tuesday, bringing some relief from the heat. Temperatures hovered around 34.2°C, slightly lower than previous days, while humidity soared to 81%, making indoor conditions uncomfortable. Residents Urged to Stay Prepared With more rain expected, residents must stay alert. IMD advises keeping umbrellas handy and preparing for both cooler breezes and travel challenges. As Gurgaon braces for monsoon-like conditions, the city faces yet another test of its preparedness — or lack thereof. Source: times of india

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Haryana Initiates Probe into Patwaris’ Use of Personal Staff and Alleged Corruption

The Haryana government has initiated a comprehensive investigation into alleged malpractices among patwaris—officials responsible for maintaining land records. The probe focuses on accusations that these officials have employed personal staff to perform official duties and have engaged in corrupt practices. A report dated January 14 identified 370 patwaris under scrutiny, with 27 based in Gurgaon. Additionally, 170 individuals employed as personal staff by these patwaris have been named as intermediaries in these alleged corrupt activities. These aides are accused of facilitating bribe transactions, with amounts reportedly ranging from ₹1.5 lakh to ₹3 lakh for services such as property registrations and issuance of general power of attorney (GPA) documents. Anurag Rastogi, the Additional Chief Secretary of the Revenue Department, has directed all Deputy Commissioners to conduct thorough investigations into these allegations. In response, Gurgaon Deputy Commissioner Ajay Kumar has instructed Sub-Divisional Magistrates (SDMs) to examine the conduct of patwaris within their respective jurisdictions and to implement measures to enhance the operations of revenue offices, known as patwar ghars. The findings from these investigations will be compiled and submitted to the government for further action. This initiative reflects the government’s commitment to addressing corruption within the revenue department and ensuring transparency in land record management.

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Haryana to Boost Sex Ratio

License Cancellations of MTP Centers for Violations: In a bold move to combat the declining child sex ratio, Haryana to Boost Sex Ratio at Birth and the Haryana government has canceled the registration of 300 Medical Termination of Pregnancy (MTP) centers. These centers were found guilty of violating laws aimed at preventing female feticide and unethical medical practices. The crackdown reflects the state’s strong commitment to promoting gender equality and upholding ethical standards in healthcare. Strict Enforcement of PCPNDT Act: A Key Step for Haryana to Boost Sex Ratio Authorities are rigorously enforcing the Pre-Conception and Pre-Natal Diagnostic Techniques (PCPNDT) Act, which strictly prohibits the determination or disclosure of an unborn child’s sex. Inspections uncovered multiple violations by various MTP centers, leading to their license cancellations. This demonstrates the government’s unwavering dedication to ending sex-selective abortions and protecting the rights of unborn girls. Monitoring and Accountability: The Health Department, in collaboration with local administrations, is conducting regular audits and surprise inspections to ensure compliance. Medical practitioners found engaging in illegal practices now face stringent consequences such as imprisonment, revocation of medical licenses, and heavy financial penalties. These actions are part of a broader effort to hold violators accountable and deter unethical behavior. Community Awareness and Mindset Change: Haryana to Boost Sex Ratio by Challenging Gender Bias Alongside legal enforcement, Haryana is also implementing community awareness programs in districts like Gurgaon. These initiatives aim to educate citizens on the value of daughters and challenge entrenched gender biases and patriarchal attitudes. Public campaigns showcase stories of successful women, inspiring communities to offer equal opportunities to girls. A Dual Approach for a Fairer Society By combining strict legal action with grassroots awareness campaigns, Haryana is taking a comprehensive approach to tackle female feticide. The government’s message is clear: safeguarding unborn girls is not just a legal mandate but a moral obligation. With continued enforcement and community engagement, Haryana is striving to build a more equitable and just society where every child, regardless of gender, can flourish. Source: Times of India

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