Chandigarh, February 18:

Punjab Horticulture Minister Mohinder Bhagat on Wednesday said that Punjab is set to witness a major positive change in the horticulture sector with a proposed investment of about Rs 1,300 crore, which will help increase farmers’ income and create new opportunities in value addition and exports.

Addressing a press conference here, the Minister shared the outcomes of his recent visit to Sahyadri Farmers Producer Company Limited in Nashik, Maharashtra. He said Punjab will adopt successful practices from the Maharashtra horticulture model so that farmers in the state can earn better profits through organised farming, processing and better market linkages. An MoU was also signed with Sahyadri to strengthen Farmer Producer Organisations (FPOs) in Punjab through training and institutional support.

Bhagat said the visit was very useful as the delegation studied how farmers can work together through FPOs to improve production, grading, packaging, processing and exports. He informed that Sahyadri is working with thousands of farmers over more than 30,000 acres and exports fruits and vegetables to 42 countries, which shows how collective efforts can bring prosperity to farmers.

The Minister said the delegation visited modern packhouses, processing units, research farms and training centres, where they interacted directly with farmers and experts. He said Punjab farmers can benefit from scientific crop planning, better quality control and strong market connections, which were key features of the model studied during the visit.

Talking about the MoU, the Minister said it will help in forming strong farmer groups in Punjab, providing training, technology support and guidance so that farmers can benefit from working collectively and get better prices for their produce.

Bhagat reiterated that the Punjab Government is fully committed to promoting crop diversification towards horticulture, increasing value addition and creating sustainable income opportunities for farmers, adding that Punjab has the potential to emerge as a leading horticulture hub in the country.

On this occasion, Commissioner Agriculture Babita Kaler, Director Horticulture Shailender Kaur, Deputy Director Horticulture Harpreet Singh Sethi, Assistant Director Horticulture Rupinder Kaur,  Assistant Director Horticulture Balwinderjit Kaur and other senior officers were present.

CHANDIGARH, February 18:

As over 8.18 lakh students begin their Class 8, 10 and 12 Board examinations across Punjab, the Bhagwant Mann Government has enforced an unprecedented security and monitoring framework to guarantee fairness, discipline and zero tolerance for malpractice.

With 384 flying squads, including special teams conducting surprise inspections, strict imposition of Section 144 within 100 metres of exam centres and the launch of the first-of-its-kind MATQ App for real-time tracking of question papers, the Punjab School Education Board (PSEB) has operationalised a robust, technology-driven system to eliminate leakage risks and ensure transparency.

Backed by 6,792 examination centres and the deployment of over 5,600 officials on ground, the state’s education machinery is working in mission mode to conduct smooth, credible and secure examinations, reflecting the government’s clear commitment to transparent and accountable governance in education.

Extending his best wishes to students, Education Minister Harjot Singh Bains said, “Examinations are a celebration of knowledge. I urge all students to appear in exams fearlessly, with full confidence and honesty. Your hard work today will illuminate your tomorrow and steer Punjab towards progress.”

Highlighting the scale of preparations, the Education Minister stated, “With over 8.18 lakh students appearing in the Board exams across the state, the Punjab School Education Board has set up 6,792 examination centres, including 2,307 for Class 8, 2,367 for Class 10 and 2,118 for Class 12 across Punjab. To ensure smooth conduct at the ground level, 2,469 Superintendents and 3,193 Deputy Superintendents have been deployed.” He added, “To curb malpractices and cheating in exams, 384 flying squads, including 111 special teams, will conduct surprise inspections.”

Emphasising the government’s push for transparency and accountability, Education Minister Harjot Singh Bains said, “Ushering in a new era of accountability and discipline in education, the state government has introduced the MATQ App, a first-of-its-kind tech initiative, for real-time tracking of question papers, ensuring foolproof security and zero leakage risk.” He further stated, “To further sterilise the examination environment, Section 144 has been strictly imposed within a 100-metre radius of all examination centres, prohibiting the gathering of unauthorised individuals.”

Reaffirming the government’s commitment, the Education Minister asserted, “The Bhagwant Mann Government’s vision for transparent education is taking shape. Exams are being conducted smoothly across Punjab, with a strong focus on quality and fairness.”

Chandigarh, February 18:

Punjab Public Works Minister Harbhajan Singh ETO today conducted a comprehensive review of ongoing road infrastructure works across the state at a high-level meeting held at Punjab Bhavan, Chandigarh.

Taking stock of the head-wise progress of projects being undertaken by the Public Works Department (PWD), the Minister emphasized the need for timely completion of all works well before the onset of the rainy season. He directed officials to draw up weekly targets for expediting bituminous works and ensure their early completion.

The Minister instructed that these weekly targets be monitored daily by the respective Chief Engineers and reviewed periodically at his level to ensure accountability and efficiency. He stressed that the people of Punjab must be provided with durable and high-quality road infrastructure without delay.

Reiterating the firm commitment of the Bhagwant Singh Mann led Punjab Government to provide better and world-class road infrastructure to commuters and travelers, Mr. Harbhajan Singh ETO stated that strengthening and modernizing the state’s road network remains a top priority of the government. He added that improved connectivity will facilitate safer and smoother travel while accelerating economic growth and regional development.

Categorically directing officers to make all-out efforts to achieve both financial and physical targets within the stipulated timeframe, the Minister made it clear that no compromise on quality would be tolerated. He warned that strict action would be initiated against any official or contractor found negligent in executing road construction works.

Issuing further directions, the Minister instructed that paving activities be commenced immediately, as environmental conditions are currently conducive for pre-mix and carpeting works. He also announced that routine surprise inspections would be conducted to ensure adherence to prescribed engineering standards and to maintain transparency in execution.

Underscoring his personal commitment to quality infrastructure, PWD minister stated that he would personally inspect construction works at various road sites across the state to ensure transparency, accountability and timely completion of projects.

To streamline financial procedures and prevent last-minute rush at treasuries, the Cabinet Minister directed that all contractor bills be submitted in time..

The meeting was attended by  Administrative Secretary Ravi Bhagat, Engineer-in-Chief Gagandeep Singh, Chief Engineer Anil Gupta and other senior officers of the PWD.

CHANDIGARH/TARN TARAN, February 18:

          With Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann personally taking stock of the investigation into the murder of Harbarinder Singh, Director General of Police (DGP) Punjab Gaurav Yadav has directed the Deputy Inspector General of Police (DIG) Ferozepur Range Snehdeep Sharma and Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Tarn Taran Surendra Lamba to personally supervise the probe and ensure that the perpetrators are brought to justice at the earliest.

          As per the information, victim Harbarinder Singh was shot by two unidentified assailants during a marriage function, which was taking place at Sidhu Farm under the jurisdiction of Police Station Sarhali. He succumbed to his injuries while being taken to the hospital. Another individual present at the scene attempted to chase the attackers and sustained a gunshot injury to his leg during the crossfire and currently undergoing treatment.

          Fixing the accountibility of the incident, DGP Gaurav Yadav said that Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) Patti Jagbir Singh and Station House Officer (SHO) Sarhali Gurvinder Singh have been placed under suspension on account of the absence of sufficient preventive policing measures.

          The DGP reaffirmed the Punjab government’s firm commitment to maintaining law and order in the state.

          SSP Surendra Lamba further informed that based on the investigation conducted so far, there does not appear to be any angle related to threat or extortion etc. As per preliminary inquiries, the possibility of a personal enmity or revenge angle appears to be strong, he said.

          The SSP confirmed that the case is being investigated from all possible angles in a scientific and technical manner. Four separate teams have been constituted for CCTV analysis under the supervision of different officers, he said, while adding that additionally, one team, along with the FSL team, is examining the crime scene.

          “A thorough investigation will be conducted, and we will ensure exemplary punishment for the culprits,” the SSP added.

Chandigarh, 16 February 2026:

Punjab Vidhan Sabha Speaker S Kultar Singh Sandhwan accused the central government of betraying  with Indian farmers  through the India-US trade deal. He added that the agreement will  inflict deep damage to Indian farmers.

He said this deal will not only destroy Indian farmers  but also ruin farmers interest. He strongly condemned this decision of the central government and said BJP government continuously misled the farmers. He stated that our government stands shoulder to shoulder with the farmers.

Sandhwan highlighted that without strong domestic support such as fair prices, subsidies, infrastructure and risk protection, moves to open markets to foreigners can spell trouble for small and marginal farmers. The upcoming protest of farmers is  a warning sign. If the government believes that this agreement truly puts the interests of farmers first, then it must prove it through transparency, parliamentary debate and meaningful consultation. Otherwise, this narrative of reform will once again fail to address the concerns of those who feed the country.

Chandigarh:

A special campaign launched by Haryana Police against illegal, objectionable, and misleading activities on social media and digital platforms has successfully completed one month. Conducted in collaboration with the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology, the campaign has proven to be highly effective and result-oriented in ensuring digital safety and a responsible online environment. In view of the increasing trend of misleading, provocative, and socially disruptive content on social media, this well-planned and proactive initiative was undertaken. Over the past month, the cyber team has continuously monitored digital platforms and coordinated swift action, reporting a total of 2,052 links and profiles. Out of these, 1,616 instances of objectionable content have been removed or blocked by the concerned social media platforms. The remaining 436 links are under various stages of review, and prompt action is being ensured in those cases as well.

*Swift Action Under Section 79(3)(b)*

Under the campaign, the cyber team is identifying social media posts, videos, links, and profiles on a daily basis that contain misleading information, provocative language, or content capable of disturbing public peace. In such cases, notices are immediately issued to the concerned social media platforms under Section 79(3)(b) of the Information Technology Act, demanding removal of the content. The entire process is being conducted in a time-bound, transparent, and strict manner without any laxity.

*Special Drive Against Fake Trading and Investment Apps*

In view of the rising cases of digital fraud, a special organized campaign against fake trading and investment apps was launched on January 12, 2026, under the directions of Director General of Police Ajay Singhal. So far, 125 suspicious apps and channels have been identified, of which 88 have been removed from digital platforms, while the remaining 37 are under final review and the takedown process is progressing swiftly. The DGP stated that this initiative is a strong step toward ensuring digital security for citizens and will significantly reduce cases of online investment fraud.

*Zero Tolerance Towards Misleading and Inflammatory Posts*

DGP Ajay Singhal has issued a clear warning that strict action will be taken against those spreading false, misleading, or inflammatory content on social media. He stated that social media today influences every section of society, and any provocative material can pose a serious threat to social harmony and peace. He appealed to citizens not to click on suspicious links, to verify the authenticity of any app or platform before investing, to refrain from sharing sensitive content without confirmation, and to immediately report suspicious posts or apps to the police or the cyber helpline.

*Towards a Safe and Trustworthy Digital Environment*

He further stated that the objective of this campaign is to provide a safe, aware, and trustworthy digital environment. Social media is a powerful platform which, when used responsibly, can help connect society and bring about positive change. He expressed confidence that with public cooperation and vigilance, the campaign will become even more effective.

*Report Cyber Fraud Immediately*

The DGP once again appealed to citizens that in case of any cyber fraud, they should immediately call the cyber helpline 1930 or register a complaint on the National Cyber Crime Portal, so that the defrauded amount can be prevented from being transferred to other accounts in time and swift legal action can be ensured against the offenders. Haryana Police’s one-month special digital campaign has not only marked a milestone in ensuring law enforcement but has also emerged as a strong and effective step toward building a safe, transparent, and responsible digital society.

The Director General of Police (DGP), Haryana, Shri Ajay Singhal, today shared his views on the necessity of ‘Sovereign AI’ in the context of national security at the *India AI Impact Summit 2026*, held at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi. The summit was organized by the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY), Government of India, in collaboration with KPMG India. The theme of the summit was *“Sovereign AI for National Security: India’s Path To Digital Sovereignty,”* bringing together policymakers and security experts from India and abroad.

*AI: Opportunity, Challenge, and the Need for Technological Independence*

DGP Shri Singhal stated that after the internet and mobile revolutions, Artificial Intelligence has emerged as an immensely powerful technology capable of redefining governance and security frameworks. He emphasized that AI is not merely a tool to accelerate processes but a transformative force reshaping governance, security systems, and societal structures. He cautioned that if AI development is not anchored in a secure, indigenous, and trustworthy ecosystem, critical national security systems could face significant risks. Referring to the five layers of AI—energy, chips, infrastructure, models, and applications—he underlined that self-reliance at the application level alone is insufficient. The entire technological ecosystem, including electricity, semiconductor chips, data, and servers, must remain secure and under national control to ensure uninterrupted functioning of security mechanisms during crises.

**Emerging Security Risks and the Road to Police Modernization**

The DGP expressed concern over the increasing misuse of AI, which could lead to sensitive data breaches, disruptions in emergency services, algorithmic manipulation, deepfakes, and sophisticated cyberattacks. He stressed that law enforcement agencies must be technologically empowered and well-trained to effectively counter such emerging threats. Highlighting Haryana Police’s proactive approach, he stated that the force is prioritizing technology-driven smart policing and continuously upgrading its capabilities to tackle cybercrime and digital threats. He also emphasized the importance of public–private partnerships in developing AI-based investigative and intelligence systems, while asserting that such collaborations must operate within a robust legal framework ensuring accountability, transparency, and adherence to constitutional values. The principles of security, public trust, and legitimacy must remain paramount in the deployment of AI technologies.

*Sovereign AI as a Strategic Imperative*

The DGP concluded by stating that Sovereign AI is a strategic necessity for national security. He underscored the need for India to build an AI framework that is indigenous, secure, and aligned with constitutional principles. Sovereign AI, he explained, refers to artificial intelligence systems that are developed, controlled, and operated by the nation itself, ensuring that data, technology, and servers remain free from external control and that national security and privacy are fully safeguarded. He affirmed that the decisions taken today will shape the future architecture of India’s security ecosystem.

Chandigarh, February 14:- In a decisive move to ensure transparency and uniform enforcement at all paid parking sites, the Municipal Corporation Chandigarh has clarified that no electric vehicle (EV) shall be exempted from payment of parking charges at any paid parking site under its jurisdiction.

The directions were issued by Sh. Amit Kumar, IAS, Commissioner, MC Chandigarh, to all officials concerned with the management and supervision of paid parking sites. The Commissioner categorically stated that there is no provision for free parking, including for a duration of 15 minutes, and all vehicles entering paid parking areas must pay the prescribed charges without exception.

During a surprise inspection at the paid parking site in Sector 7 today, the Commissioner personally reviewed on-ground operations and functioning of the staff deployed. It was observed that two vehicles were allowed to exit the parking premises without issuance of any parking slip or valid pass. Taking serious note of the lapse, he immediately directed the concerned Executive Engineer to change the deployment areas of the employees involved with immediate effect.

Further reinforcing the zero-tolerance approach, the Commissioner directed that no vehicle, including those engaged in delivery services such as Swiggy, Zomato, or any other platform, shall be allowed entry or exit without payment of prescribed parking charges.

The Executive Engineers of Road Division No. 1, 2 and 3 have been instructed to ensure that all parking attendants under their respective jurisdictions strictly comply with these directions. Any deviation will invite strict administrative action.

Chandigarh:

The Chandigarh Renewable Energy, Science & Technology Promotion Society (CREST), Chandigarh Administration, will organise Solar Awareness and Facilitation Camps on 15 February 2026 (Sunday) under the flagship Government of India scheme PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana.

The initiative aims to promote the installation of rooftop solar systems among residential households and to facilitate citizens with on-the-spot registration and guidance regarding subsidy and loan benefits.

Representatives from leading banks and registered empanelled vendors will remain present at the camps to assist residents with registration, loan formalities and technical queries.

Camp Locations and Contact Details:
1. Sector 34 Market
Officers: Nitish Sharma, APM & Navdeep, Jr. Tech
Mobile: 9115504496
2. Dhanas
Officers: Bhupender Saini, APM & Hardyal, APM
Mobile: 9646762196
3. Manimajra
Officers: Pankaj, JE & Akashdeep
Mobile: 8146103064
4. Sukhna Lake
Officers: Rajnish Sharma, PM & Rohit, Steno
Mobile: 9914925685
5. CHB Flats, Sector 61
Officers: Bhupinder Singh, PM & Vivek Rana
Mobile: 7015859162

Key Highlights for Citizens:
• Central Financial Assistance (Subsidy) up to ₹78,000 for residential rooftop solar systems.
• Low-interest bank loans (up to 6% ROI) through leading banks.
• Single-window facilitation by CREST for vendor selection, technical guidance and grievance redressal.
• Direct transfer of subsidy amount into beneficiary bank accounts.

How to Apply:

Residents may visit the official portal www.pmsuryaghar.gov.in or approach the CREST facilitation desk at the respective camp venues for detailed guidance and assistance.

Citizens are encouraged to participate in large numbers and take advantage of this initiative towards clean energy adoption and reduced electricity bills.

Chandigarh, 14 February 2026:

Today, Dr. Virendra Kumar, Hon’ble Union Minister of Social Justice and Empowerment, formally inaugurated the 29th edition of Divya Kala Mela at the Sector-34 Ground, Chandigarh. He described the Mela as a transformative initiative that has become a beacon of hope for Divyangjan across the country, reflecting the Government’s commitment to inclusive growth and equal opportunity.

The Minister highlighted the significant shift in approach since 2014 under the leadership of Narendra Modi, noting that the adoption of the respectful term “Divyang” symbolized a broader change in vision towards dignity and empowerment. He referred to key initiatives such as the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016 and the Sugamya Bharat Abhiyan, which have strengthened accessibility, participation and economic inclusion. He emphasized that true respect must translate into livelihood opportunities and self-reliance, which Divya Kala Mela actively promotes by connecting Divyang artisans and entrepreneurs directly to markets.

Sh. Satnam Singh Sandhu, Hon’ble Member of Parliament (Rajya Sabha), stated that while according respect to Divyangjan aligns with India’s cultural ethos, empowerment through livelihood is equally essential. He appreciated the Ministry’s efforts in organizing Divya Kala Mela, which enables Divyang youth to showcase and sell their products closer to home.

Sh. Saurabh Joshi, Mayor of Chandigarh, termed the event a celebration of talent, confidence and human potential. He said that hosting Divya Kala Mela, Divya Kala Shakti and the Rozgar Mela reflects Chandigarh’s commitment to inclusivity and reinforces the belief that disability is not a limitation but a distinct ability.

Shri Rajiv Sharma, Joint Secretary, Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (DEPwD), highlighted the economic impact of the initiative. Over the past three years, Divya Kala Melas across 28 cities have facilitated business transactions worth ₹2366.43 lakh, with participation of around 2,362 Divyang entrepreneurs generating income exceeding ₹23 crore. Loans of over ₹20 crore have also been sanctioned to strengthen entrepreneurship. Parallel Rozgar Melas have seen 3,131 candidates participate, with 1,007 shortlisted and over 313 receiving job offers.

The Chandigarh Mela features around 75 stalls set up by Divyang entrepreneurs, Government institutions and NGOs. A dedicated Rozgar Mela for Divyangjan will be held on 19 February 2026. Visitors can register for assistive devices at the ALIMCO stall, while inclusive sports activities such as Boccia and Blind Cricket, along with daily cultural performances, are adding vibrancy to the event. A special cultural programme, “Divya Kala Shakti,” will be presented on 21 February 2026.

The 29th Divya Kala Mela stands not merely as a marketplace but as a movement, reinforcing the message that economic empowerment of Divyangjan strengthens families, communities and the nation, and advances the vision of an inclusive India built on dignity and self-reliance.