Chandigarh:

“India beautifully blends its rich cultural heritage with modernity and innovation. Chandigarh is a glimpse of this modern India-planned, progressive and welcoming. We are delighted to host international delegates and give them an opportunity to experience our culture, hospitality and the spirit of Chandigarh.”–Dr. Syed Abid Rasheed Shah (IAS), Secretary, Chandigarh Tourism, Chief Guest at the valedictory ceremony of the 8^th Public Health Policy and Management (PHPM) Programme held at PGIMER, Chandigarh. Addressing the gathering, he further said, thisprogramme served not only as an academic and professional platform but also as an important avenue for India’s soft diplomacy, fostering goodwill, mutual understanding and stronger institutional and professional relationships among participating countries.

Organised under the prestigious Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation (ITEC) Programme of the Ministry of External Affairs, Government of India, the one-week international capacity-building programme successfully concluded its eighth edition, reaffirming India’s commitment to global public health, South-South cooperation, knowledge diplomacy and capacity building of health-sector leaders. The programme brought together 45 senior healthcare professionals from 25 countries, creating a unique international platform for policy dialogue, knowledge exchange, leadership development, mutual learning and sharing of best practices in public health and health-system management. The participating countries included nations from Africa, Asia, Europe, Latin America and the Middle East, reflecting the diversity and strength of India’s partnerships across the Global South.

The delegates appreciated the opportunity to experience India’s healthcare system and gain insights into how policy is translated into practice. Delegates from various countries shared their experiences of learning at PGIMER Chandigarh and acknowledged India’s robust healthcare ecosystem. They appreciated the program’s practical and interactive learning methodology, particularly the exposure to innovative initiatives in PGIMER like Green Hospital Initiative, Regional Organ and Tissue Transplant Organization (ROTTO), televidence and telemedicine department. The program highlighted how flagship Government of India initiatives, including the National Health Mission (NHM), Ayushman Bharat, the National Organ Transplant Programme, and the country’s digital health and sustainability initiatives, are translated into practice at one of India’s premier tertiary healthcare institutions. The delegates explored innovative approaches that strengthen health systems while advancing universal health coverage through quality, accessible, and patient-centred care. Excursion visits to ICCC and open hand monument was organised during the program.

Reflecting on the decade-long journey of the initiative, Dr. Sonu Goel remarked, “Over the last ten years, IPHMDP has grown into a globally recognized model for leadership and management training. Rooted in India’s timeless philosophy of ‘VasudhaivaKutumbakam’– the world is one family -the program has gone beyond academic learning to build lasting partnerships, promote mutual trust, and foster international collaboration.” He further highlighted that the program has now trained over 1,850 public health professionals from 97 countries, creating a vibrant global network of health leaders.

The program concluded with a certificate distribution ceremony recognizing the successful completion of the training by all participants. The successful completion of the program once again underscored India’s growing leadership in global public health and reaffirmed PGIMER Chandigarh as a trusted international centre for capacity building, health systems strengthening, and global knowledge exchange.

Chandigarh:

Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGIMER), Chandigarh has received national recognition for its flagship patient-navigation initiative, *Project SARATHI*, at the National Patient Safety Conference (NPSC) 2026, organised by AIIMS Nagpur in collaboration with the National Patient Safety Secretariat, Directorate General of Health Services, Ministry of Health & Family Welfare.

Project SARATHI was recognised as an “Outstanding Best Practice” for its exemplary contribution towards patient safety and quality of care. PGIMER was also presented a Special Recognition Award for “Best Practices in Patient Safety 2026” at the conference held on September 11–12, 2026.

Expressing his happiness, ***Prof. Vivek Lal, Director, PGIMER, ***said, “This national recognition of Project SARATHI is a matter of immense pride for PGIMER. SARATHI represents the power of empathy, volunteerism and responsible citizenship in making healthcare more accessible and humane. In an institution serving millions of patients, sometimes a simple act of guiding, listening and helping can make a profound difference to a patient’s experience. We are committed to strengthening and scaling this model so that its benefits reach even more patients and healthcare institutions.”

Echoing the same sentiment, *Mr. Pankaj Rai, Deputy Director (Administration), PGIMER,* said, “SARATHI has demonstrated how a structured volunteer programme can create a meaningful impact on patient experience and hospital efficiency. By helping patients navigate the system and addressing non-clinical difficulties at the point of need, SARATHIs contribute significantly to smoother patient movement and better utilisation of hospital services. This recognition is a strong endorsement of the commitment of our students and the entire PGIMER team.”

Ms Saryu D. Madra,Consultant (IEC/Media), ROTTO North cum PRO, PGIMER Chandigarh, represented PGIMER at the national forum and made a presentation on Project SARATHI, showcasing its innovative approach, implementation framework, measurable impact and potential for replication across healthcare institutions. She also received the recognition and award on behalf of PGIMER.

Launched in May 2024, Project SARATHI—Students’ Alliance for Responsible Action to Transform Healthcare Institutes—engages trained student volunteers to assist patients and attendants, particularly those unfamiliar with the hospital system. SARATHIs provide guidance on OPD navigation, registration, service locations, queues, investigations, reports and other non-clinical requirements, helping patients access the right service at the right place.

With PGIMER witnessing more than 30 lakh OPD visits annually, the initiative has evolved into a large-scale patient-support model. More than 2,700 students have participated as SARATHI volunteers, contributing over 1.6 lakh hours of service. The initiative has supported millions of patient interactions and helped reduce avoidable confusion and waiting in OPD areas.

The SARATHI model is aligned with the spirit of the National Education Policy 2020, promoting experiential learning, community engagement and social responsibility among students while ensuring that volunteering does not compromise their academic responsibilities. The initiative has also demonstrated that patient safety extends beyond clinical care to include clear communication, accessibility, orientation and a compassionate patient experience.

Chandigarh, September 13: Haryana Chief Minister Sh. Nayab Singh Saini on Sunday attacked the Aam Aadmi Party government in Punjab, saying that the people of Punjab want development, employment, security for industries and solutions to their problems, not jokes, publicity and advertisements. There has never been any shortage of ability or hard work among the people of Punjab, but the policies, intentions and leadership of governments that have failed to provide the state with the right direction have pushed Punjab behind in the race for development.

The Chief Minister was addressing a public meeting organised at Kakrala village in Patiala on Sunday. Former Minister Preneet Kaur, Professor Malkit Singh and other dignitaries were present on the occasion. On this occasion, hundreds of people joined the Bharatiya Janata Party. The Chief Minister welcomed all those who joined the party.

Sh. Nayab Singh Saini said that although Punjab and Haryana are two separate states, their roots, culture and heritage are one. Paying homage to this great land of Gurus, Pirs and martyrs, he said that the people of Punjab are now asking why Punjab has fallen behind despite having fertile land, hardworking people and immense potential.

The Chief Minister said that at one time Punjab was counted among the most prosperous states in the country. Haryana, which came into existence nearly 19 years after Punjab was formed, has today moved far ahead of Punjab in terms of economic progress. In 2025-26, Haryana’s real economic growth rate is estimated at 9.5 per cent, while Punjab’s growth rate is only 6.1 per cent. Thus, Haryana is progressing 3.4 percentage points faster than Punjab. Similarly, in 2026-27, Haryana’s economy is estimated at approximately ₹15.18 lakh crore, while Punjab’s is estimated at approximately ₹9.81 lakh crore. There is a difference of approximately ₹5.38 lakh crore in the economic size of the two states. This difference is a difference of the right policy, clear intent and accountable leadership.

He said that in 2023-24, Haryana’s share in the country’s GDP was approximately 3.6 per cent, while Punjab’s share was approximately 2.4 per cent. Haryana’s per capita income was estimated at 176.8 per cent of the national average, while Punjab’s was estimated at 106.7 per cent.

The Chief Minister said that at one time, Punjab’s per capita income used to be nearly twice the national average, but the situation has changed today. He said that the people of Punjab want an answer as to why the state’s economic potential is not being fully utilised.

*Economy is strengthened by work, not publicity and advertisements*

The Chief Minister said that the Aam Aadmi Party government has given Punjab more publicity than work and more advertisements than results. Repeating false claims does not strengthen an economy. An economy becomes strong when industries receive security, youth get employment, traders have confidence, farmers receive remunerative prices and the benefits of government schemes reach people directly without discrimination.

He said that it is the government’s responsibility to go among the people, listen to their problems and resolve them. Jokes work in cinema halls, but among the people, the discussion is about work, development and solutions to public problems. He said that the Congress had also made big promises to the people of Punjab but failed to fulfil them. The Aam Aadmi Party also made numerous promises, but they remained merely promises and people did not get relief from their problems.

*Haryana Government has fulfilled 70 out of 217 promises*

The Chief Minister said that under the leadership of Prime Minister Sh. Narendra Modi, the present BJP government in Haryana has been working to fulfil the promises made to the people. Out of the 217 promises made during the 2024 Assembly elections, 70 have already been fulfilled within 18 months of the government’s tenure.

Sh. Nayab Singh Saini said that the Haryana Government has provided major relief to kidney patients. Patients had to spend between ₹25,000 and ₹30,000 per dialysis session. However, in accordance with the promise made in the election manifesto, the Haryana Government has implemented the decision to waive the entire cost of dialysis. Patients now do not have to spend money from their own pockets for this treatment.

He said that the Haryana Government has also fulfilled its promises regarding the dignity and empowerment of women. Women from families with an annual income of up to ₹1.80 lakh are being provided LPG cylinders at ₹500. In the last 18 months, more than ₹300 crore has been deposited into women’s accounts.

He said that the promise to provide monthly assistance of ₹2,100 to women under the Deen Dayal Lado Lakshmi Yojana has also been implemented. The government had made a provision of ₹5,000 crore for this in its very first budget. In the last 18 months, more than ₹2,000 crore has been deposited into women’s accounts.

*Entire crop of farmers being procured at MSP in Haryana*

The Chief Minister said that under the leadership of Prime Minister Sh. Narendra Modi, the Haryana Government has fulfilled its promise to farmers by procuring their entire crop at the Minimum Support Price (MSP). Haryana is the first state in the country where the entire crop of farmers is being procured at MSP. Full payment for the crop is being made into farmers’ accounts within 48 to 72 hours. If payment takes more than 72 hours, farmers are paid along with interest.

Chief Minister Sh. Nayab Singh Saini, targeting the Aam Aadmi Party government over the growing drug menace in Punjab and the future of its youth, said that when a person raised his voice before the government to keep children away from drugs, he was harassed and an attempt was made to silence his voice. Hurt by this, he ended his life. He said that this incident raises serious questions about law and order, sensitive governance and respect for the voice of ordinary citizens in Punjab.

The Chief Minister said that injustice is also being done to the youth of Punjab in the name of employment. He said that it has come to light that people close to MLAs got jobs in the recruitment of Excise Inspectors in Punjab. In contrast, under the leadership of Prime Minister Sh. Narendra Modi, the BJP government in Haryana has given priority to transparency and merit in government recruitment. In Haryana, youth are getting government jobs without “parchi and kharchi”, entirely on the basis of merit.

The Chief Minister said that some people talk about honesty but seek votes through jokes. He said that the people are concerned not with jokes but with work.

*Assurance to extend the benefits of Haryana’s schemes to the people of Punjab*

The Chief Minister said that the people of Punjab now want work on the ground, not merely announcements. He expressed confidence that Punjab can also be given strong momentum on the path of progress by advancing the policies of development, good governance and public welfare under the leadership of Prime Minister Sh. Narendra Modi. The public welfare schemes being implemented in Haryana under the leadership of Prime Minister Sh. Narendra Modi will also be extended to the people of Punjab. He said that just as schemes are being implemented in Haryana for the poor, women, farmers and needy families, similar efforts will be made with commitment to ensure that the people of Punjab also benefit from these schemes.

*The example of how a BJP government works can be seen in Haryana: Preneet Kaur*

Former Minister Maharani Preneet Kaur said that under the leadership of Prime Minister Sh. Narendra Modi, India has established a strong identity at the global level. Today, India is among the world’s major economic powers. This is no small achievement. She said that Prime Minister Sh. Narendra Modi is continuously working to make the country strong, capable and developed. She said that it is the need of the hour to free the children of Punjab from drugs and other evils and provide them with opportunities for education, employment and development. She expressed confidence that only the Bharatiya Janata Party, with the support of the Central Government, can effectively work towards making Punjab drug-free, developed and prosperous.

She said that the people of Punjab are also witnessing the development works being undertaken in Haryana under the leadership of Chief Minister Sh. Nayab Singh Saini and the functioning of the government. She said that Haryana provides an example of how a BJP government works. She said that development can also be accelerated in Punjab by working together with the Central Government. She appealed to the people to vote in favour of the BJP in the upcoming elections.

Chandigarh, September 13: Haryana Energy, Transport and Labour Minister Sh. Anil Vij said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s birthday would be observed as “Seva Sankalp Abhiyan”. He said that if one looks at the life of Prime Minister Modi, it becomes evident that his entire life has been dedicated to serving the people.

Sh. Vij was addressing people and party workers this evening at Farooka Khalsa School, Ambala Cantonment, regarding the Seva Sankalp Abhiyan, which will be organised from September 17 to October 17 to mark Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s birthday and 25 years of his dedicated public service.

He said that Prime Minister Modi has introduced numerous schemes for the welfare of the people, including the Ayushman Bharat card, Ujjwala Yojana, annual financial assistance of ₹6,000 to farmers, and several other initiatives. “This is why the programme has been named ‘Seva Sankalp Abhiyan’. The kind of service Prime Minister Modi has rendered during his tenure as Chief Minister and Prime Minister, and the achievements of his life, cannot be adequately described through any single speech,” he said.

*“India’s stature has risen across the world under Prime Minister Modi”: Anil Vij*

 

Energy Minister Anil Vij said that the BRICS Summit is being hosted in India, and people from major countries are standing alongside India’s Prime Minister, which is a matter of pride for the country. He said that the respect Indians command abroad today is largely due to Prime Minister Modi. “He has enhanced India’s prestige across the world,”Vij said. Sharing his own experience of travelling abroad, he said that the respect Indians receive across the world today was not seen in the past. He attributed this change to Prime Minister Modi and said that the Prime Minister has helped Indians attain a more dignified position globally.

*“Under Modi’s leadership, India gave a befitting response to terrorism”: Anil Vij*

 

Energy Minister Anil Vij said that during Operation Sindoor last year, India, under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, gave a befitting response to Pakistan without seeking assistance from any other country. He alleged that due to the “mistakes” of previous governments, India lost territory in Jammu and Kashmir. He referred to Aksai Chin and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir in this context and said that the entire region could otherwise have been part of India.

Sh. Vij said there was a major difference between the previous governments and the present government in dealing with terrorism. “Earlier, terrorists would enter the country from across the border, kill innocent people and leave, while we were limited to paying tributes. But now, if such an act takes place, we enter their territory and strike them,” he said. He added that India is now recognised across the world as a country that is capable of taking action against forces threatening its national security and sovereignty.

*“We have fulfilled every responsibility by putting our lives on the line; politics for us is not a business opportunity, but an opportunity to serve”: Anil Vij*

 

Energy Minister Anil Vij said that the history of Ambala Cantonment has been that whenever a responsibility has been entrusted to its people, they have fulfilled it with complete dedication and commitment. “This is our history. The people of this district have elected me as their MLA seven times based on my work and performance,” he said. Referring to the recent Lok Sabha and Assembly elections, Vij said that among the four Assembly constituencies in the district, the BJP emerged victorious only in Ambala Cantonment, which, he said, was due to the hard work and strength of party workers. He said, “Whatever we have been able to accomplish has been possible because of the strength of our workers.” Sh.Vij said that he has been associated with the BJP organisation since his childhood, since 1970, and that one principle had always been instilled in him: “Politics is not an opportunity for business; politics is an opportunity to serve.”

*“Our party and government are dedicated to public service”: Anil Vij*

 

Energy Minister Anil Vij said that the programme has been named Seva Sankalp because the party and government are committed to serving the people. He said that all schemes and initiatives undertaken by the government have consistently been aimed at public welfare. He said that during the Seva Sankalp Abhiyan, the lighting of diyas would be undertaken as a collective activity. He urged party workers to ensure that a diya is lit at the home of every beneficiary. Vij directed the BJP Mandal Presidents, Mandal in-charges and other workers to ensure that every beneficiary’s home is covered under the diya-lighting initiative.

*Anil Vij briefs workers on various initiatives under Seva Sankalp Abhiyan*

 

Energy Minister Anil Vij said that several initiatives have been planned as part of the Seva Sankalp Abhiyan, which party workers would undertake collectively. He said that on September 17, a “blessing diya” would be lit and every household should be covered. “Ambala should appear as if the entire city is celebrating Diwali,” he said. He added that diyas could also be lit at places where development works and major projects have been completed in Ambala Cantonment. He said that the list of development works undertaken is extensive and there are numerous locations where such initiatives can be carried out.

During his address, Energy Minister Anil Vij also urged workers and the public to participate enthusiastically in various other initiatives under the Seva Sankalp Abhiyan, including Mere Sapno Ka Bharat Chitra Seva, Namo Seva–Ankahi Kahaniyan, Aangan Milan Seva, Seva Ki Kahani, Vadnagar–Varanasi Seva Yatra, Seva Jyoti Kalash Yatra–Sankalp of Viksit Bharat, Seva Mera Yogdan, Seva Setu Abhiyan, Seva Ke Rang–Rashtra Ke Sang, Seva First Innovation Challenge and Sushasan Seva Diwas.

He called for these initiatives to be undertaken with maximum public participation and collective involvement.

On the occasion, BJP leaders Deepak Sharma, Rajesh Bataura, Sanjeev Soni, Municipal Council President Swarn Kaur, Vice-President Lalita Prasad, Rajiv Dimple, Surendra Bindra, Kiranpal Chauhan, Balwinder Shahpur, Ajay Baweja, Madan Lal Sharma, Tarvinder Singh, Jasbir Jassi, Vijender Chauhan, B.S. Bindra, Sudarshan Singh Sehgal, Ravi Budhiraja, Harsh Bindra, Vikas Bahgal, Ravi Sehgal and others were present.

CHANDIGARH, SEPTEMBER 13:

With sugarcane acreage rising to 1.16 lakh hectares and production target set at 700 lakh quintals this season, Punjab Agriculture and Farmers Welfare Minister S. Gurmeet Singh Khudian on Sunday announced a multi-pronged strategy to make sugarcane Punjab’s most remunerative crop through aggressive mechanisation, grassroots tech outreach and direct financial incentives for growers.

Describing sugarcane as Punjab’s third-most critical crop after wheat and paddy, S. Gurmeet Singh Khudian said that Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann-led Punjab government is leaving no stone unturned to boost productivity, improve sugar recovery and cut cultivation costs by promoting large-scale adoption of advanced farming techniques.

Citing official data, the Agriculture Minister said that area under sugarcane in Punjab has increased from 1,11,818 hectares in 2025-26 to 1,16,131 hectares in the current 2026-27 season, which is expected to yield nearly 700 lakh quintals of cane if weather remains favourable. Of the total acreage, 47,295 hectares is under ratoon crop, 51,174 hectares under spring crop and 17662 hectares under autumn crop, he added.

“However, with the proactive interventions in place and a favourable weather outlook, we expect marked improvement in both yield and sugar recovery in the upcoming season,” said S. Gurmeet Singh Khudian.

For the 2026-27 season, the government has rolled out an incentive of Rs 3,200 per acre for farmers setting up demonstration plots showcasing recommended cultivation techniques. The scheme will be implemented in 12 districts — Amritsar, Gurdaspur, Hoshiarpur, Jalandhar, Shaheed Bhagat Singh Nagar, Fatehgarh Sahib, Rupnagar, SAS Nagar, Patiala, Fazilka, Faridkot and Kapurthala.

These demo plots will promote advanced practices such as wide-row spacing, trench planting, intercropping, mulching and scientific ratoon management to boost yields while cutting input costs.

To address shortage of farm labour during sowing and harvesting, the state government is promoting mechanisation by offering 40% subsidy on key equipment including sugarcane harvesters, small tractors, cane planters and ratoon managers. “Mechanisation is no longer an option but a necessity. Our aim is to make these machines easily accessible and affordable for every farmer,” Khudian said.

The Agriculture Minister informed that joint teams of Punjab Agricultural University (PAU), the agriculture department and sugar mills are holding extensive awareness camps across the state, focusing on wide spacing trench  planting method, primary seed nurseries, disease-free certified seed varieties, balanced fertiliser use, integrated pest management and ratoon management. So far, 14 webinars have trained around 1,100 farmers, while 320 training camps have directly reached over 15,000 farmers. Real-time technical guidance is also being provided through Facebook, YouTube and field staff interactions.

“Sugarcane sustains a vast network of farming families and farm labourers across Punjab and their economic well-being is directly tied to this crop. It is our duty to make its cultivation more profitable and future-ready,” said S. Khudian.

Reiterating CM Mann-led Punjab government’s commitment to welfare of agrarian community, S. Khudian said the multi-pronged strategy combining financial incentives, technological upgradation, capacity building and farm mechanisation is aimed at making sugarcane cultivation a highly remunerative enterprise.

“Our comprehensive approach will bring down cultivation expenses, enhance productivity and improve sugar recovery. We are fully committed to ensuring that Punjab’s sugarcane farmers reap the rewards of their hard work and contribute meaningfully to the state’s agrarian prosperity,” he affirmed.

CHANDIGARH, September 13:

         In the recent years, due to the intensive crackdown against drugs being smuggled from across the internation border with Pakistan in the State of Punjab, there has been a change in the pattern of drug smuggling with an increased focus on pharmaceutical drugs. Addiction to pharmaceutical drugs has started replacing heroin addiction as the number one challenge in drug law enforcement in the State of Punjab.

         A Punjab Police Spokesperson stated that the multi-layered response to counter drone-based narcotic smuggling across the international border with Pakistan by Border Security Force (BSF) and Punjab Police has led to a sharp decline in availability of street heroin in Punjab. Punjab Police is deploying 09 Anti-Drone Systems, with 03 “Baaj Akh” systems presently operational in Amritsar, Tarn Taran and Ferozepur since August 2025, providing early detection and jamming of rogue drones. 03 units of Drone Sense D200 Pro, a long-endurance mobile drone detection platform have been deployed at strategic locations in border districts since 03-09-2026, showing immediate results. The system precisely detects and pinpoints drone-related activity and actual dropping locations, enabling timely ground intervention. For immediate ground action, 52 Drone Response Teams (DRT) with 147 police personnel work in close coordination with the Border Security Force (BSF) responding to drone alerts, reaching suspected drop locations, conduct searches and intercept persons collecting the dropped consignments. This response is supported by 64 second-line defence nakas with 600 police personnel and 2367 CCTV cameras at 585 locations.

         The Spokesperson further stated that the Village Defence Committees (VDCs) in Border areas have been integrated with the Drone Response Teams (DRTs). The VDCs in border areas serve as “eyes and ears” of the police. The “Yudh Nashiyan Virudh” (YNV) campaign has resulted in arrest of nearly 80,000 persons since 01-03- 2025. 486 drones have been recovered. Financial investigation is being used to disrupt the economic base of drug network with freezing of property worth over Rs. 336 crores. The reward policy for anti-drug information provides cash reward of Rs. 25,000 for every drone recovery and during the current year nearly Rs. 02 crores have been disbursed under the reward policy.

         The Punjab Police Spokesperson stated that the multi-layered response of Punjab Police based on anti-drone technology, rapid response teams, coordination with BSF, community vigilance, CCTV surveillance, depth nakas, intelligence-led arrests, financial disruption, rehabilitation and prevention has led to sharp fall in the street availability in Punjab of drugs smuggled from across the international border. Concurrently, the latest trends indicate that pharmaceutical drugs smuggled from other states have emerged as the most important challenge in drug law enforcement in the state of Punjab.

         According to data analysed from pharmaceutical seizures in Punjab, most of the pharmaceutical drugs are not manufactured in Punjab and are manufactured in states like Himachal Pradesh, Gujarat, Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, Haryana, Delhi etc. 

         The Spokesperson stated that substantial quantity of pharmaceutical narcotics is entering the State of Punjab from other states. Since 2025 onwards, 11.54 lakh pharmaceutical tablets/capsules were recovered from consignments linked to other States, including Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, Gujarat, Haryana, Delhi and Himachal. It is roughly estimated that 80% of the pharmaceutical drugs available in Punjab are coming from the States of Gujarat, Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, Haryana, Delhi etc, showing reversal of the earlier trend of 80% drugs being smuggled in Punjab from across the international border with Pakistan.

         The Punjab Police Spokesperson further stated that the emerging pattern of pharmaceutical drug abuse highlights the importance of inter-state coordination. There is need for continued coordinated action with source and transit States against manufacturers, distributors and organised pharmaceutical drug networks. Punjab police would take up the matter with concerned states for better regulation of manufacturing units, continuous monitoring of all sale, purchase and transportation of all pharmaceutical drugs, to avoid these being diverted to the State of Punjab.

CHANDIGARH/LUDHIANA, September 13:

         In a major breakthrough against criminal networks as part of the ongoing drive to eliminate gangster culture in the state as per the vision of Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, a joint team of the Anti-Gangster Task Force (AGTF) Punjab and Ludhiana Commissionerate Police on Sunday averted a mass shooting bid and neutralised two armed operatives belonging to the notorious Doni Bal gang during an encounter near Atam Park Under Bridge here.

         Commissioner of Police (CP) Ludhiana Swapan Sharma has identified the deceased assailants as Karanjot Singh alias Nona and Sandeep Singh, both residents of Sultanwind Road, Amritsar. Police teams have recovered three sophisticated automatic pistols along with around 50 live cartridges from their possession.

         Sharing operation details, the CP said that acting on precise intelligence inputs regarding a planned attack, joint teams laid a special naka at the Under Bridge near Atam Park and intercepted two suspects approaching on a black-coloured Hero Splendor motorcycle without a registration number. Upon being signaled to stop, the armed assailants attempted to flee and opened indiscriminate fire at the police personnel, he said.

         “During the hot chase, the assailants continuously fired multiple shots at the joint police party, and two bullets hit the official police vehicle. Exercising retaliatory fire in self-defence, the police team neutralised both armed attackers on the spot,” said the CP.

         CP Swapan Sharma revealed that preliminary investigations showed the neutralised assailants were directly in touch with gangster Doni Bal and Shaganpreet, and were tasked with orchestrating a mass shooting at a blood donation camp, organized at Marryland Palace on Dugri Road, Ludhiana on Sunday.

         Sharing the criminal antecedents of the deceased, the CP stated that Karanjot Singh alias Nona was a history-sheeter facing two previous criminal cases registered under the Arms Act, Robbery, and the NDPS Act. The second deceased, Sandeep Singh, was also facing one criminal case.

         He said that more accomplices of the neutralized individuals are being traced and will be nabbed soon. Further investigations are underway to establish backward and forward linkages of the gang, he added

 In this regard, a case is being registered under sections 109, 221, 132, 62 and 111 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) and section 25 Arms Act at Police Station Model Town in Ludhiana.

CHANDIGARH, September 13:

         As the decisive ‘Gangstran Te Vaar’ campaign enters its 236th day, Punjab Police today conducted 634 raids at identified and mapped locations linked to associates of gangsters across the state.

         As per the information, the “Gangstran Te Vaar”— a decisive war to make Punjab a gangster-free state was launched by the Director General of Police (DGP) Punjab Gaurav Yadav on January 20, 2026. Police teams from all the districts in coordination with Anti-Gangster Task Force (AGTF) Punjab have been conducting special operations across the state.

         On Day 236, Police teams arrested 335 individuals held with four weapons, taking the total arrests to 70,363 since the launch of the campaign.

 Apart from this, preventive action has been taken against 174 persons. Police teams have also arrested 18 Proclaimed Offenders (POs) during the operation.

         People can anonymously report information related to wanted criminals and gangsters, and also share tips on crime and criminal activity, through the Anti Gangster Helpline number 93946-93946.

         Meanwhile, Police teams have continued its drive against drugs “Yudh Nashian Virudh” for 561st day with 135 drug smugglers arrested today and recovered 4.3 kg heroin, 2.3 kg opium, 862 intoxicant pills and Rs 4.01 lakh drug money from their possession. With this, the number of total drug smugglers arrested has reached to 77,844 in just 561 days. As part of De-addiction, the Punjab Police has convinced 19 persons to undergo de-addiction and rehabilitation treatment today.

CHANDIGARH; 14th September 2026:

Reaffirming that Punjab will never allow the sacrifice of its bravehearts to fade from public memory, Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann on Sunday dedicated a 200-foot-wide HR-2 road and a park in New Chandigarh to Shaheed Colonel Manpreet Singh (Kirti Chakra), who lost his life while defending the nation in Anantnag. “Our martyrs are our pride and legacy, and the Punjab Government will always stand firmly with their families,” the Chief Minister said, while reiterating that his government is leaving no stone unturned for the welfare of Armed Forces personnel and their families.

Taking to X, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann stated: “I pay my heartfelt tributes to the great warrior, Shaheed Colonel Manpreet Singh (Kirti Chakra), who attained martyrdom while defending the nation in Anantnag, on his martyrdom anniversary. As a mark of respect to this braveheart, today we have named the road from Mundhopur Chowk to the T-Point ‘Shaheed Colonel Manpreet Singh Marg’ and the park in Sector 5-A ‘Shaheed Colonel Manpreet Singh Park’. The unparalleled sacrifice of this brave son of village Bharojian will always inspire our youth. Our martyrs are our pride and legacy, and the Punjab Government will always stand firmly with their families. Inquilab Zindabad.”

Interacting with media persons after dedicating a road and park in the name of Shaheed Colonel Manpreet Singh, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann paid heartfelt homage and deepest respect to the martyr, saying, “On this occasion, the state government remembers the immense contribution of this brave warrior to the nation. This braveheart made the supreme sacrifice while fighting the enemy in defence of the motherland,” he added.

Giving details of the tribute, the Chief Minister said, “In his memory, the state government has named the 200-foot-wide road from Mullanpur Chowk to the T-Point as ‘Shaheed Colonel Manpreet Singh Marg’.”

Similarly, he said, “The park in Sector 5-A Block has been named ‘Shaheed Colonel Manpreet Singh Park’ as a tribute to his memory and sacrifice. By naming these public places after this brave son of Punjab, particularly from the Chandigarh-Mohali region and village Bharojian, the state government has paid homage to his supreme sacrifice.”

CM Bhagwant Singh Mann expressed hope that the initiative would inspire the youth of Punjab to serve the nation selflessly. He said, “I hope that this will help inspire the youth of Punjab to render selfless service to the nation in the time to come. The valour, guidance and sacrifice of Shaheed Colonel Manpreet Singh will continue to inspire us forever.”

Recalling the martyr’s service record, he said, “Shaheed Colonel Manpreet Singh attained martyrdom on September 13, 2023, while serving as the Commanding Officer of the 19 Rashtriya Rifles Regiment. Colonel Manpreet Singh displayed exceptional courage during an encounter with terrorists in Anantnag district of Jammu and Kashmir and made the supreme sacrifice in the service of the nation.”

Highlighting the recognition bestowed upon the martyr, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “In recognition of his extraordinary courage and supreme sacrifice, the Government of India posthumously conferred upon him the Kirti Chakra, the country’s second-highest peacetime gallantry award, on August 15, 2024.”

The Chief Minister stated, “Colonel Manpreet Singh was born in 1982 in village Bharojian and received his primary and higher education in Mohali and Chandigarh.” He added, “Following in the footsteps of his father, he joined the Indian Army in 2005 as a commissioned officer.”

CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “His life of courage, dedication and selfless service to the nation will remain an enduring source of inspiration for generations to come. The state government is committed to perpetuating the legacy of this brave son of the soil who made the supreme sacrifice for the country.”

Highlighting the state government’s commitment towards the families of personnel making the supreme sacrifice, he said, “Recognising the immense contribution of jawans of the Armed Forces, paramilitary forces, Police and even Agnivirs in safeguarding the unity and integrity of the country, the state government gives financial assistance worth ₹1 crore to the family in case a jawan attains martyrdom in the line of duty.”

He said, “This is in consonance with the commitment of the state government to ensure the well-being of the soldiers from the Armed Forces, paramilitary and Police and their families.”

CM Bhagwant Singh Mann further said, “This humble initiative by the state will go a long way in helping the aggrieved family on one hand and securing their future on the other.”

*On Education Sector*

Replying to another query, the Chief Minister said, “The state government has laid major thrust on the development of the education sector in the state.”

He said, “Due to the concerted efforts of the state government, the schools have witnessed a major overhaul in infrastructure.”

Highlighting the achievements of government school students, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “Today, the students of the government schools in the state are excelling in coveted examinations like JEE, NEET and others, which is a matter of immense satisfaction for us.”

Lok Sabha MP Malwinder Singh Kang and others were also present on the occasion.

CHANDIGARH; 13th September 2026:

Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann on Sunday attended the closing ceremony of the inaugural Sher-e-Punjab T20 League at the IS Bindra Stadium in Mohali, describing the tournament as a powerful platform to identify, nurture and propel Punjab’s emerging cricketing talent towards the national stage. With 119 players showcasing their skills and Naman Dhir and Prabhsimran Singh earning selection to India A, the Chief Minister said the Punjab Government is committed to making the state the sports hub of the country and will continue its efforts to revive the sporting culture and connect the youth with sports grounds.

Sharing a few snippets from the occasion, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann stated on X: “Attended the final match and closing ceremony of the ‘Sher-e-Punjab T20 League’ at the IS Bindra Stadium in Mohali today. Starting on August 30, the tournament has provided an excellent platform for young cricketers from Punjab to showcase their talent. Heartiest congratulations to all participating teams, including finalists Ludhiana Lions and Amritsar Surmaaz, for their outstanding performances and fighting spirit. Our efforts to revive the sporting culture in Punjab and connect our youth with the sports grounds will continue unabated. Inquilab Zindabad.”

Interacting with players at the conclusion of the Sher-e-Punjab T20 Cricket League, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “The Sher-e-Punjab T20 League has been organised for the first time by the Punjab Cricket Association (PCA). This prestigious tournament has provided a platform to emerging cricketers of Punjab, and this sporting extravaganza has concluded today.”

Congratulating the organisers of the Punjab Cricket Association for successfully conducting the league, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann stated, “I congratulate the Punjab Cricket Association for the successful conduct of this league and extend my best wishes to all the participating teams and all the other teams for the upcoming season.”

The Chief Minister stated, “During this two-week-long league, several promising young cricketers from the villages and towns of Punjab came into the limelight. Many of these talented players are likely to go on to represent Punjab and India in the years to come.”

Congratulating all the players for participating in their own state league with great enthusiasm, commitment and determination, the Chief Minister said, “As many as 119 players from Punjab showcased their talent and skills during this league.”

CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “At present, the captains of both the Indian men’s and women’s cricket teams, Shubman Gill and Harmanpreet Kaur respectively, hail from Punjab.”

The Chief Minister said, “As many as 21 players from Punjab are currently playing in the IPL. During the Sher-e-Punjab T20 League, talent scouts and selectors from various IPL teams also attended the matches. Following this league, we are hopeful that several more talented cricketers from Punjab will earn opportunities to play for different IPL teams.”

Highlighting the early results emerging from the league, he said, “The performances showcased during this league have already begun yielding results. Naman Dhir and Prabhsimran Singh from Punjab have been selected for the India A team. This demonstrates how such platforms can provide a pathway for emerging players to progress to the national level.”

The Chief Minister said, “I am particularly delighted to share that the Player of the Tournament will be honoured with the Yuvraj Singh Award.”

Describing the significance of the league, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “The Sher-e-Punjab T20 League is not merely a cricket tournament. It is an important initiative to identify, nurture and promote the immense cricketing talent present across the villages, towns and cities of Punjab.”

He expressed hope that “the young cricketers who have showcased their talent here will go on to bring greater glory to Punjab and the country in the future.”

^Amritsar Surmaaz, Ludhiana Lions Clash In Sher-e-Punjab T20 League Final*

The final match is being played today between Amritsar Surmaaz and Ludhiana Lions. CM Bhagwant Singh Mann also met the players competing in the final.

Six teams participated in the league, with Fazilka Falcons led by Shubman Gill, Ludhiana Lions led by Arshdeep Singh, Amritsar Surmaaz led by Abhishek Sharma, Jalandhar Warriors led by Prabhsimran Singh, Mohali Kings led by Ramandeep Singh and Bathinda Royals led by Gurnoor Brar.

These six teams participated in the league, featuring some of Punjab’s leading cricketing stars. Besides them, cricketers including Anmolpreet Singh, Naman Dhir, Vihaan Malhotra, Imanjot Singh Chahal, Ashwani Kumar, Krish Bhagat, Sahil Bhaskar and Rahul Kumar also participated in the league.

Lok Sabha MP Gurmeet Singh Meet Hayer and others were also present on the occasion.