Chandigarh May 31: Haryana Chief Minister Sh Nayab Singh Saini said that under the leadership of Prime Minister Sh Narendra Modi, India is steadily progressing towards becoming a developed nation. Emphasizing the importance of drawing inspiration from the life and values of Lokmata Ahilyabai Holkar, he said that like Ahilyabai, we must commit ourselves to justice, development, and the preservation of our rich cultural heritage. Marking the 300th birth anniversary of Ahilyabai Holkar, he called upon citizens to take a collective pledge to serve society, promote education, and ensure equal rights for daughters.
The Chief Minister was addressing the gathering as the Chief Guest at the state-level function held to commemorate the 300th birth anniversary of Mateshwari Ahilyabai Holkar at the Grain Market in Pipli, Kurukshetra, today. On this occasion, the Pal Gadariya community honored the Chief Minister by tying a traditional turban on him and presenting a shawl and a memento. Earlier, the Chief Minister paid floral tributes to the portrait of Mateshwari Ahilyabai Holkar.
On this occasion, the Chief Minister announced that a museum in the name of Mateshwari Ahilyabai Holkar will be constructed on two acres of land, with the aim of educating and inspiring the younger generation about her life and legacy. Additionally, with the consent of the Pal Gadariya community, a grand entrance gate will be built in her name in a village or city. The Chief Minister also announced a grant of Rs 31 lakh from his discretionary fund to the Pal Gadariya Samaj Dharamshala in Kurukshetra. Furthermore, he announced contributions of Rs 11 lakh each on behalf of Cabinet Minister Sh Krishan Lal Panwar, Sh Mahipal Dhanda, Sh Ranbir Gangwa, Sh Shyam Singh Rana, Member of Parliament Sh Naveen Jindal, and Rajya Sabha MP Sh Ramchandra Jangra.
The Government is taking the message of saints and great leaders to the people
Chief Minister Sh Nayab Singh Saini, while addressing the gathering, said that saints, mahatmas, gurus, and great leaders are not only our invaluable heritage but also a source of constant inspiration. It is our collective responsibility to preserve and promote their legacy. To this end, the state government is actively disseminating their teachings and messages through the ‘Sant-Mahapurush Vichar Samman Evam Prasar Yojana’. This event has also been organized as part of that initiative.
Ahilyabai Holkar: a living embodiment of Nari Shakti
He said that Mateshwari Ahilyabai Holkar was born on May 31, 1725, in Chaundi village of Maharashtra. At a time when women were largely denied access to governance, education, and personal freedom, Ahilyabai defied societal norms and emerged as a shining embodiment of Nari Shakti (women’s power). She proved that when a woman remains steadfast in her duty, she has the power to transform an entire era. Ahilyabai Holkar was not just a ruler, she was a living example of “Nari Shakti” who gave tax relief to farmers, promoted trade, and ensured equal opportunities for all sections of society. Following the path she showed, Prime Minister Sh Narendra Modi is now working with determination to realize the vision of a developed India by the year 2047.
Ahilyabai Holkar rebuilt India’s major pilgrimage sites
He said that today, as India proudly showcases its cultural identity to the world, it is important to remember the unique role Lokmata Ahilyabai played in preserving that heritage. Ahilyabai undertook the remarkable task of rebuilding nearly every major pilgrimage site in the country whether it was the Kashi Vishwanath Temple, Somnath, Mathura, Ayodhya, Badrinath, or Rameswaram. She not only constructed temples but also revitalized religion, culture, and faith across the nation. In recognition of her immense contributions, her statue was installed at Kashi Vishwanath in 2019 by the gracious hands of Prime Minister Sh Narendra Modi.
Under the Prime Minister’s leadership, Indian Army destroys terrorist hideouts under Operation Sindoor; our daughters play key role
The Chief Minister said that Ahilyabai’s life demonstrates that a woman embodies not only tenderness but also determination and leadership. She was a perfect blend of love and valor. He added that under the leadership of Prime Minister Sh Narendra Modi, the country is rapidly progressing on the path of development, with our daughters making significant contributions in every field. Condemning the Pahalgam attack, the Chief Minister stated that terrorists had cruelly targeted the family members of our sisters and daughters in front of their eyes. Following this incident, Prime Minister Sh Narendra Modi resolved that the time had come to wipe out the remaining ground of terrorism. Acting on this resolve, the Indian Armed Forces launched Operation Sindoor, successfully destroying terrorist hideouts, with brave daughters Vyomika Singh and Sofia Qureshi playing vital roles.
The State Government ensures equal development of all sections and regions with the spirit of ‘Haryana Ek-Haryanvi Ek’
He said that following the path shown by Ahilyabai, the state government is committed to ensuring the equal development of all sections and regions with the spirit of Haryana Ek-Haryanvi Ek. With the aim that no poor person goes hungry, the government provides free ration every month to 49 lakh BPL families across the state. Additionally, under the Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana, approximately 15 lakh LPG connections have been provided free of cost to women from economically weaker families. More than 17 lakh BPL and AAY families in Haryana receive gas cylinders at a subsidized rate of Rs 500. To ensure a roof over the head of every poor family, 65,356 houses have been constructed under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana, with 41,529 houses currently under construction. Furthermore, under the Dr. B.R Ambedkar Awas Navinikarn Yojana, an amount of Rs 80,000 is provided for house repairs.
Free medical treatment up to Rs 5 lakh annually for poor families under ‘Ayushman Bharat-Chirayu Yojana’
The Chief Minister said that under the Ayushman Bharat-Chirayu scheme, poor families receive free medical treatment coverage of up to Rs 5 lakh annually, ensuring they do not have to worry about healthcare expenses. So far, over 20.66 lakh patients have benefited from free treatment worth Rs 2,761 crore in the state. Additionally, free medical services are provided to senior citizens aged 70 and above. Similarly, under the Dayalu Yojana, financial assistance of up to Rs 5 lakh is granted in the event of death or disability of a member of family with an annual income upto Rs 1.80 lakh. To date, approximately Rs 1,100 crore in financial aid has been distributed to nearly 29,000 families.
Dedicated Backward Classes Commission set up to promote welfare of backward classes and address issue
Sh Nayab Singh Saini said that the government has established a dedicated Backward Classes Commission to promote the welfare of backward classes and address their issues. He stated that children belonging to backward class families now receive 27 percent reservation in jobs and admissions to Kendriya Vidyalayas, Sainik Schools, Navodaya Vidyalayas, and MBBS courses. Additionally, the state government has raised the annual income limit of the creamy layer for backward classes from Rs 6 lakh to Rs 8 lakh.
Government implements several schemes for Backward Class student welfare
He said that the government has waived the fees for backward class students up to Class 12. In addition, these students are provided with free textbooks, uniforms, and writing materials. The college and university fees for daughters from such families have also been waived. Under the Dr. Ambedkar Medhavi Chhatra Sanshodhit Yojana, meritorious students from backward classes are awarded an annual scholarship of up to Rs 8,000 to support their higher education. Similarly, under the Post Matric Scholarship Scheme, backward class students receive a monthly scholarship of up to Rs 750, and all non-refundable fees are reimbursed. Furthermore, the state government has established the Haryana Kesh Kala and Kaushal Vikas Board and the Mati Kala Board to promote traditional skills and provide livelihood opportunities.
On World No Tobacco Day, take a pledge to eradicate drug addiction from its roots
The Chief Minister said that today is also being observed as World No Tobacco Day. He emphasized that tobacco is a slow poison that gradually destroys the body from within and ultimately takes lives. He urged everyone to take a pledge on this day to choose health, service, and cultural values over tobacco, and to actively contribute to eradicating drug addiction from its roots to build a healthier society.
Cabinet Minister Sh Krishan Lal Panwar, Sh Mahipal Dhanda, Sh Ranbir Gangwa, Sh Shyam Singh Rana, BJP State President Sh Mohan Lal Kaushik, Member of Parliament Sh Naveen Jindal, Rajya Sabha MP Sh Ramchandra Jangra, MLAs Sh Ramkumar Kashyap, Sh Pawan Kharkhauda, Sh Satpal Jamba, Dr. Krishna Kumar, and State President of the Pal Gadariya Samaj, Sh Shamsher Singh, among several other dignitaries were present on this occasion.
