Punjab Water Resources Minister Barinder Kumar Goyal launched a ₹650 crore irrigation scheme for 102 villages in the Nurpur Bedi block. The project aims to provide lift irrigation facilities and manage rainwater by constructing dams on the Swan river and Sutlej, covering 2,785 acres in the first phase. This initiative is expected to reduce groundwater dependency and protect villages from annual floods, marking a significant step for local agriculture since independence. https://zeenews.india.com/hindi/zeephh/punjab/nurpur-bedi-irrigation-project-rs-650-crore-102-villages-barinder-kumar-goyal/3271688

Punjab farmers have postponed their march to Delhi after reaching an agreement with the Haryana government on two key demands: the release of arrested farmer leaders and a scheduled meeting with Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Chouhan within 8-10 days. Earlier, Haryana police had sealed the Shambhu and Khanauri borders with heavy barricading and security forces to prevent farmers from advancing. Following the successful meeting with Agriculture Minister Shyam Singh Rana, farmers began returning from the border points. https://punjabi.abplive.com/news/punjab/haryana-punjab-news-farmers-protest-shambhu-border-delhi-march-strategy-check-all-details-inside-876170

Light to moderate rainfall in various parts of Tarn Taran district has provided relief from humid heat. Farmers and agricultural officers state that the rain is highly beneficial for paddy, basmati, and fodder crops. While areas like Rasulpur and Sabhra witnessed rain, farmers in Chohla Sahib offered prayers at a Gurdwara as their area remained dry. Health experts noted the weather change is also beneficial for preventing children's illnesses. https://www.punjabitribuneonline.com/news/punjab/punjab-weather-relief-from-the-scorching-heat-rain-a-boon-for-crops/

The protective glass cover of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar's statue at Jalandhar Bypass Chowk in Ludhiana was broken by miscreants using stones. This led to a massive protest by BSP workers and locals who accused the administration of negligence. Protesters demanded the immediate arrest of the culprits and threatened to block the national highway. Police have initiated an investigation using CCTV footage and have deployed forces in the area to maintain law and order. https://www.punjabitribuneonline.com/news/punjab/glass-installed-to-protect-ambedkars-statue-broken/

A crucial meeting of the Punjab Congress is scheduled to be held in Delhi tomorrow to address ongoing internal conflicts. Senior leader Bhupesh Baghel will chair the meeting, which will be attended by all senior Punjab Congress leaders. Participants are expected to present their viewpoints to resolve the infighting and strengthen the party's state unit ahead of future challenges. https://punjab.news18.com/videos/punjab-congress-crisis-news18-punjab-988660.html

The Punjab Cabinet, led by CM Bhagwant Mann, approved major decisions including direct recruitment of ASIs in Punjab Police. The sports quota in police recruitment has been increased from 3% to 10%. Additionally, the Monsoon Session of the Punjab Vidhan Sabha is scheduled to be held from August 3 to August 10. https://zeenews.india.com/hindi/zeephh/punjab/major-decisions-approved-in-punjab-cabinet-meeting-big-announcement-regarding-punjab-police-recruitment/3272232

Gupt Navratri Ashtami will be celebrated on July 21, 2026. Astrologer Pandit Ramesh Shastri emphasizes the importance of worshipping Maa Mahagauri and performing Kanya Pujan. Devotees are warned to avoid tamasic food, anger, and lies during the fast to ensure spiritual purity and prosperity. Rituals include holy baths, offering red flowers, and performing Havana for negative energy removal. https://punjab.news18.com/news/pathankot/gupt-navratri-ashtami-2026-puja-vidhi-mahagauri-worship-mantra-and-kanya-pujan-religious-festival-local18-988807.html

A new study indicates that diabetes patients are at a significantly higher risk of severe dengue infection due to weakened immune systems. High blood sugar can lead to cytokine storms, internal bleeding, and dengue shock syndrome. Experts advise diabetic patients to monitor their blood sugar levels more frequently during infection, use mosquito repellents, wear full-sleeved clothing, and consider dengue vaccination. While further clinical trials are needed to confirm high susceptibility, doctors emphasize early detection and sugar control as vital preventive measures. https://punjab.news18.com/news/health/diabetic-patients-are-most-prone-to-dengue-mosquito-bites-doctors-offer-tips-for-prevention-skm-988933.html

Due to an orange alert for heavy rainfall, the district administration has declared a holiday for all schools and Anganwadi centers on July 21st. The meteorological department has predicted heavy rain, thunderstorms, and strong winds in several districts including Pathankot, Gurdaspur, and Mohali. The decision aims to ensure student safety amid potential waterlogging and severe weather conditions. While the rain is expected to benefit Kharif crops like paddy and maize, citizens are advised to check weather updates before traveling. https://punjab.news18.com/news/career/due-to-heavy-rain-all-schools-and-anganwadi-centers-will-remain-closed-tomorrow-ak-988712.html

MP Amritpal Singh, currently lodged in Assam's Dibrugarh jail under the NSA, will contest the 2027 Punjab Assembly elections. The announcement was made by MLA Manpreet Singh Ayali, who stated that Singh is being projected as the Chief Ministerial candidate. Even if not released by then, he will contest from prison, similar to his 2024 Lok Sabha campaign where he won by a record margin. https://punjabi.abplive.com/news/punjab/mp-amritpal-singh-will-contest-the-2027-punjab-assembly-elections-if-not-released-he-will-stand-as-a-candidate-from-the-assam-jail-itself-876101