Chandigarh, September 26: In a compassionate move reflecting solidarity with victims of the recent natural calamity in Himachal Pradesh, the Municipal Corporation Chandigarh has decided to reduce the booking charges by 50% for the Dussehra Ground in Manimajra and Circus Ground in Sector 17, where the Himalayan Khampa Janjati Woolen Market and Tibetan Market are temporarily set up each year.

This significant decision was taken during the Finance and Contract Committee (F&CC) meeting held today under the chairpersonship of Smt. Harpreet Kaur Babla, Mayor, MCC. The meeting was attended by Sh. Pardeep Kumar, IAS, Special Commissioner, committee members Sh. Gurpreet Singh, Sh. Jasmanpreet Singh, Sh. Saurabh Joshi, Smt. Suman Devi, and other senior officers of MCC.

During the meeting, the committee deliberated on the agenda concerning policy guidelines and terms and conditions for booking of commercial grounds, particularly the two key market locations. After detailed discussions, the committee unanimously approved the reduction in booking fees for this year, keeping in view the hardships faced by Tibetan and Khampa traders due to landslides and floods during the recent monsoon in Himachal Pradesh.

City Mayor Smt. Harpreet Kaur Babla stated that this is a gesture of empathy and support towards communities that have been long associated with Chandigarh and contribute to its vibrant seasonal markets.

The committee also discussed and accorded approval to the following agenda items:

* Rough cost estimate for strengthening of existing storm water drainage network by repairing the existing road gullies and machine holes and constructing additional road gullies and machine holes at Transport area in sector 26 E, chandigarh at an estimated cost of Rs. 26.28 lacs.

* Development of valley park, Dhanas at an estimated cost of Rs. 33.41 lacs.

* Hiring of leachate suction machine for 3 MRF centres at an estimated cost of Rs. 36.13 lacs.

Chandigarh, September 26:

Slamming the opposition for politicizing the issue of floods, the Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann on Friday said that the people of the state will never forgive these insensitive and opportunist politicians for their betrayal towards the state and its residents.

Winding up the discussion during a special session on the floor of Punjab Vidhan Sabha, the Chief Minister said that it is unfortunate that instead of giving a  healing touch during the floods these so-called experienced politicians of the state are spitting venom against the government. He said that these politicians are only politicizing this issue for the sake of their vested political interests which is unwarranted and undesirable. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that when the people of state were running pillar to post for relief and rehabilitation in the floods these politicians were desperately making efforts to hog media limelight.

The Chief Minister said that this special session was convened to discuss the rehabilitation of the state in the aftermath of floods but due to myopic mindset of these leaders it has been reduced to a platform of criticism. He said that Punjab is a blessed land and has a tendency to rise from ashes but such backstabbers have always tried to ruin it. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that the natural disasters even bowed before the hard work and determination of the Punjabis adding he cited the Battle of Saragarhi, Battle of Longewala and others to apprise about the bravery of the Punjabis.

The Chief Minister said that whenever the country has faced any problem or difficulty Punjab has saved the country whether it was making the country self-reliant in food production, safeguarding its borders or even in national freedom struggle. However, he said that when Punjab faces any problem the Union government becomes insensitive to our problems and leaves us to face it on our own. Bhagwant Singh Mann cited that after the Dinanagar attack Punjab was asked to pay the price for the Indian Army, which had come to neutralize the terror attack from across the border.

Giving a clarion call to all the Punjabis to unite in this hour of grave crisis, the Chief Minister said that it is the need of the hour to rebuild the state adding that if needed he will not hesitate to stage a protest outside the residence of the Prime Minister for the sake of Punjab. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that he is not afraid of the misuse of the central agencies to muzzle the voice of democracy and will continue to fight for safeguarding the interests of the state. He said that it is the need of the hour as history will remember all those who worked for the welfare of the state in this hour of crisis and the others who created obstacles.

The Chief Minister said that this is the time when all of us should join hands and sink our differences to steer Punjab and its people out of this grave crisis. He said that all the leaders should use their influence to help the people of the state to come out of this crisis adding that it is the real service of Punjab. Bhagwant Singh Mann envisioned that with the concerted efforts of the state government and support of all the philanthropists the day is not far when Punjab will re-emerge as the frontrunner state in the country.

The Chief Minister unequivocally asked the opposition to stop the blame game as the floods were a natural catastrophe rather than being a manmade disaster as alleged by them. He dared the opposition to explain that the floods in Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand and other states were also planned and executed by the Punjab government led by him. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that the opposition should refrain from doing politics in this hour of grave crisis when the state is facing its worst disaster.

The Chief Minister bemoaned that the floods have submerged over 2,300 villages, affected more than 2 million people, and destroyed crops across five lakh acres of land. Tragically, he said that 56 lives were lost, and around seven lakh people were rendered homeless adding that 3,200 government schools were damaged, 19 colleges reduced to rubble, 1,400 clinics and hospitals were ruined, 8,500 kilometers of roads were destroyed, and 2,500 bridges collapsed. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that as per initial estimates, the total damage amounts to approximately Rs 13,800 crore, though the actual figure can be even higher.

The Chief Minister said that the state government has carried out the desilting of the drains very effectively adding that during the previous regime 2066 kilometres drains were cleaned whereas his government has cleaned 3825 kilometre drains in merely three years. He said that they have been vehemently pleading for the desilting of Bhakra and Pong Dam with the Union government but unfortunately it has not taken place since last 70 years. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that due to the desilting of Ghaggar river this year despite excess water no flood was reported due to the river.

Coming down heavily on predictions made by the IMD, the Chief Minister said that all the forecasts made by this agency were irrelevant and far from the truth. Citing an example, he said that on one day rainfall was recorded 1961% more than the prediction made by this agency which raised serious question marks over their credibility. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that probably some blue eyed officer of the central government who is not well aware of this work is handing the charge of this office. 

The Chief Minister said that this disaster was huge as Pong Dam received 60.4% more water than 1988, when Punjab witnessed floods and Bhakra Dam witnessed 2.65% more water. Likewise, he said that in Ranjit Sagar Dam the water received was 65.3% more than the water received in 2023, which was beyond anyone’s imagination. Talking about the State Disaster Relief Fund, which was earlier known as calamity relief fund, Bhagwant Singh Mann said that in last 25 years out of which Akali-BJP was at power in the state for 12 years and Congress for 10 years, the state had received Rs 6190 crore as funds.

The Chief Minister said that the fact that the state was having Rs 12,000 crore as SDRF was figment of imagination of all the leaders who want to criticize the government for their vested political interests. He said that it is ironic that on pretext of this the Prime Minister during his visit to state gave only Rs 1600 crore to the state which was insufficient for the state as its 2305 villages have been devastated due to floods. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that the Rs 1600 crore of Prime Minister will give only Rs 80 lakh to every flood affected village which is a miniscule amount. 

The Chief Minister said that even during the visit of the state the Prime Minister only met the Congress wing of BJP who were handpicked by them instead of the real flood affected people. He said that it is unfortunate that the Prime Minister is least bothered about the problems faced by the countrymen and is rather busy in making tours to foreign countries. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that this is grave insult and insensitivity towards the people of the country adding that these foreign tours and foreign policy of the PM has not yielded any result.

The Chief Minister said that the state government has successfully crossed the first phase by safeguarding the people of the state from the fury of floods. He extended words of gratitude towards youngsters, Army and other social workers who saved the precious lives of people while putting themselves in danger. Bhagwant Singh Mann quipped that even in this grim situation a number of people wanted an opportunity to criticize him.

The Chief Minister said that while the leaders from the ruling party were busy serving and saving the people, some key leaders of the opposition used this opportunity for a photo session in a ‘Jaunga’. He said that the people of the state were suffering but opposition leaders shedded crocodile tears and indulged in tantrums for the sake of politics. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that even the Union Ministers came for photo sessions during the floods, the result of which was a cruel joke made by the Prime Minister in the form of Rs 1600 crores.

The Chief Minister said that the state government had been effectively working to save the state from fury of floods adding that the first flood control meeting was held on April 4. He said that contrary to this the previous Congress governments held these meetings in the months of July or even after that too adding that in 2017 it was held on June 12, on July 1 in 2018 and on July 19 in 2019.  Bhagwant Singh Mann said that the Rangla Punjab fund has been started for expediting the process of relief and rehabilitation in the state.

The Chief Minister said that every penny contributed in this fund will be judiciously utilized for welfare of the flood affected people of the state adding that a new fund has been started as there were certain limitations in Chief Minister’s Relief Fund. He said that funds through CSR cannot be contributed to it adding that even MPs can’t contribute more than 20 lakh in CM Relief Fund. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that to overcome these challenges this new fund is being raised, which has already received huge response from every strata of society.

Training his guns at Akali leader Sukhbir Singh Badal, the Chief Minister said that the President of Akali Dal is now boasting that concrete walls will be raised around the rivers whereas the fact is that people know that they failed to even construct streets during their long misrule. He said that the Akali Chief is distributing money earned through wrong means to people and in most of the villages the same fund is rotated just to mislead the people. Bhagwant Singh Mann further said that the former Deputy Chief Minister claims that massive development of the state took place during their regime but turns blind eye towards Kotakpura, Behbal Kalan and others where sacrilege of Sri Guru Granth Sahib took place and innocents were killed.

Chandigarh, September 26 – As part of the International Year of Cooperatives-2025, the Haryana State Cooperative Bank (HARCO Bank), in collaboration with CMC Hospital, Chandigarh, organized a free medical and health check-up camp.

On this occasion, the medical team was welcomed with flower bouquets by the Bank’s Managing Director & CEO Dr. Prafulla Ranjan, Deputy General Manager Smt. Urvashi Gupta, and Manager Sh. Yashveer Singh.

The camp was inaugurated by Dr. Ranjan. In his inaugural address, he stated: “Cooperation is not merely an economic model but also a means of fulfilling social responsibility. Such health camps are a meaningful effort to reach the last person in society and benefit them.” He further added that HARCO Bank will continue to organize such initiatives in the future as part of its commitment to social welfare.

The camp was held at the office premises of the Haryana State Cooperative Bank, Sector 17-C, Chandigarh, where around 150 people received free tests including blood sugar, blood pressure (BP), and body mass index (BMI). The objective of the health camp was to make citizens more aware of their health and provide timely check-up facilities.

The initiative effectively reflected the Bank’s commitment to social responsibility and the core values of cooperation.

Chandigarh, September 26- In a significant step towards enhancing the welfare of its personnel, the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) has approved a major reform in the DG’s Merit Scholarship Scheme, extending its benefits to all wards of CISF personnel excelling in academics and sports. For the academic year 2024–25, a total of 567 students have benefitted under the new norms All wards of CISF personnel who secured more than 80 percent marks in Class 12 have been brought under the scholarship umbrella.

Sharing information in this regard Deputy Inspector General, CISF , Sh. Ajay Dahiya said that the force has done away with the earlier restriction of granting scholarships to only 150 wards per year. With the new decision, all such meritorious students are now equally rewarded, removing the sense of exclusion and providing them with a much-needed motivation to aim higher.

He said that for the first time, meritorious sports achievers among the wards of CISF personnel have been recognised under the DG’s Merit Scholarship. A total of five achievers were awarded scholarships this year. The new norms have also extended the support to the wards of CISF Bravehearts, who laid down their lives in the line of duty. Recognising their sacrifice, the scholarship amounts for their wards have been significantly enhanced. This year 08 such students were given scholarships.

Digitalised application and approval process for greater accessibility

To make the system more accessible, the entire application and approval process has now been digitised. The online system ensures ease of access, efficiency, and transparency, while also enabling wards of CISF personnel residing in distant locations to apply without difficulty. Applications are now processed in a time-bound manner, minimising delays and ensuring beneficiaries receive their entitlements directly into their accounts, he added.

He further said that financial commitment for the academic year 2024–25, a total of Rs.1.26 Crore has been disbursed under the DG’s Merit Scholarship Scheme: Norms for awarding the scholarship in Academics. 80–90 percent marks: Rs.20,000 each, above 90 percent marks: Rs.25,000 each.

This welfare-driven reform has uplifted the morale of the Force, reinforcing a strong bond of trust and assurance between the organisation and its personnel. It exemplifies CISF’s inspiring motive, “Welfare Above All.”

Chandigarh, September 26 – Haryana Governor Prof. Ashim Kumar Ghosh on Friday stated that Haryana holds an excellent reputation in the field of sports in the country. Laying special emphasis on sports facilities, the Governor said that developing modern sports facilities on university campuses and encouraging students to participate in sports is the need of the hour. He also said that health is the most sustainable asset, and therefore, universities should prioritize the health of their students and staff and provide better healthcare facilities.

A two-day meeting of Vice Chancellors and Registrars of the State Universities was held at Raj Bhawan, Chandigarh, with the aim of adding new dimensions to education, skills, sports, health, and environment in Haryana’s universities. The meeting, which concluded on Friday, was chaired by Haryana Governor Prof. Ashim Kumar Ghosh, and was also attended by Haryana Education Minister Sh. Mahipal Dhanda.

During the meeting, the Governor stated that today’s session has provided universities with new perspectives and direction in key areas such as education, skills, sports, health, and the environment. Emphasizing the need to promote solar energy projects in universities, he said that all universities in Haryana should strive to create green campuses so that they can set a role model in the field of clean energy and environmental protection.

Stressing on increasing skills and employment opportunities, the Governor said that universities should implement skill development and employment-oriented programmes so that students not only obtain degrees but also become capable of employment and entrepreneurship.

He said that the development of universities can be made more effective by optimally utilizing the resources available to the state government. The Governor assured full support from the state government for the development and welfare of universities. He also expressed hope that Haryana’s universities will reach new heights in the future and set an example in the field of quality education, research, and innovation.

Additional Chief Secretary of the Higher Education Department, Sh. Vineet Garg, also shared his views in the meeting. He said that universities should pay special attention to skill development and employment-oriented training for students. To achieve this, practical training and internship opportunities should be provided to students through partnerships with industries. He also stressed the need for better coordination between departments and effective implementation of skill development programs. He also stated that it is essential to focus on library facilities, security measures, and the importance of drug-free campuses.

The meeting was attended by Dr Raj Nehru, OSD to the Chief Minister, Sh. Sudhir Rajpal, Additional Chief Secretary, Health and Family Welfare Department, Sh. Pankaj Agarwal, Principal Secretary, Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare Department, Sh. Vijay Singh Dahiya, Commissioner and Secretary, Animal Husbandry Department, Sh. DK Behera, Secretary to the Governor, Sh. Prabhjot Singh, Director General, Technical Education Department, Sh.  Kailash Chandra Sharma, Chairman, Haryana Higher Education Council, Vice Chancellors and Registrars of universities and other officials.

Chandigarh, September 26 – Haryana Vidhan Sabha Speaker Sh. Harvinder Kalyan said legislative drafting is a very important subject. It means converting policy into formal and legal language so that it emerges as clear, precise and easily understandable law. The language in legislative drafting should be such that any citizen can clearly understand what is written. The choice of words should be such that there are no two different meanings of the same thing. And the entire law should be prepared in a uniform rule and style i.e. there should be consistency.

Sh. Harvinder Kalyan was addressing a two-day training programme on the subject of Legislative Drafting and Capacity Building organized by the Haryana Vidhan Sabha in collaboration with the Institute of Constitutional and Parliamentary Studies of the Lok Sabha at Mahatma Gandhi State Institute of Public Administration, Sector-26, Chandigarh.

The workshop was inaugurated by Lok Sabha Speaker Sh. Om Birla. On this occasion, Chief Minister Sh. Nayab Singh Saini, Karnataka Vidhan Sabha Speaker Sh. U.T. Khader Fareed, and Haryana Vidhan Sabha Deputy Speaker Dr. Krishan Lal Middha were present.

The Speaker said that today’s event is not just a training session, nor is it any formality, but it is a collective effort that will make Haryana’s governance more effective. He said under the leadership of Prime Minister Sh. Narendra Modi, we all are moving forward with the resolution of Viksit Bharat 2047. In achieving this goal, democracy and constitutional institutions have a very significant role. Welcoming Lok Sabha Speaker Sh. Om Birla, he said that he is a visionary leader who has taken very important initiatives to make the legislature effective.

He said that legislative drafting is an integral part of the legislative process, as this work begins even before the Bill reaches the Assembly. When a new law is to be made, an old law is to be amended, or a law is to be repealed, the initiative begins from the concerned ministry or department. The real purpose of legislative drafting is also to identify the needs of society and shape them into clear, simple, and effective legal language.

Incomplete legislative language can become cause of confusion

Sh. Kalyan said in the year 2015, in the case of Shreya Singhal vs. Union of India, the Supreme Court declared Section 66A of the Information Technology Act unconstitutional, because this section was based on words like offensive, insulting, and distressing, which had no clear legal definition. Therefore, the Supreme Court struck it down so that free speech could remain protected in the digital age. This example teaches us that incomplete legislative language can become a cause of confusion and distress, and disputes in courts also keep increasing. Therefore, the purpose of this workshop is to practice such legislative methods so that the law, draft, order, or amendment prepared by you is clear, concise, and in line with the need and time.

He said that in the past years, major legal changes have taken place in the country and the states. Today, we are living in a digital age, which is a period of rapid change. Our effort is that through this training programme, we make more progress in this direction. This workshop will not only talk about linguistic skills but, along with providing other technical knowledge, it will also give the perspective that legislative drafting is not merely a technical task but the greatest service to democracy.

He expressed confidence that the knowledge and experience gained from this workshop will help make all of us better servants of democracy. This participation of ours will work to take Haryana’s governance system to new heights. Let us all resolve that in the coming time, our drafting will not only strengthen the spirit of the Constitution but also strengthen democracy.

Clear language and precise structure make legislative drafting a medium of justice, equality and transparency: Dr. Krishan Lal Middha

Haryana Vidhan Sabha Deputy Speaker Dr. Krishan Lal Middha said that legislators are not only public representatives but also solution-givers to the problems of society. Public service does not mean being limited to office hours, but being ready at all times, day and night, to serve the people. He said this event is not just a formality, but a strong effort to further strengthen the quality and transparency of the legislative process. He said that clear language and precise structure make legislative drafting a medium of justice, equality and transparency in society.

Dr. Middha said that in this training programme today, in collaboration with National Law University, Delhi, a Diploma and Certificate Course in Legislative Drafting has been launched, which presents a long-term vision and will play an important role in capacity building of legislative officers and employees.

This training programme is an opportunity to enhance legislative competence: Chief Secretary Anurag Rastogi

Haryana Chief Secretary Sh. Anurag Rastogi said that this training programme is not merely a formality but an important opportunity for officers and employees to make their work more effective, transparent, and legislatively empowered. He stated that long years of experience have shown that even minor gaps in the law are sometimes misused for wrongful purposes. In this context, the initiative of the Lok Sabha is highly commendable, as by organizing such a training programme, it has paved the way for officers and employees to gain insight into the legislative process and the intricacies of lawmaking. Congratulating the officers and employees, he said that this training will not only help them sharpen their capabilities but also provide an opportunity to advance their knowledge and experience.

On this occasion, Secretary General, Lok Sabha, Sh. Utpal Kumar Singh, as well as officers and employees of the Haryana Vidhan Sabha were also present.

Chandigarh, September 26– Lok Sabha Speaker Sh. Om Birla inaugurated a two-day training workshop on Legislative Drafting and Capacity Building organized by the Haryana Vidhan Sabha in collaboration with the Institute of Constitutional and Parliamentary Studies, Lok Sabha, at the Mahatma Gandhi State Institute of Public Administration, Sector-26, Chandigarh on Friday.

Speaking on the occasion, Sh. Om Birla underlined that legislative drafting is the soul of democracy. He emphasized that clear, simple, and transparent laws strengthen democratic institutions and deepen citizens’ trust in governance. Laws must evolve with changing times. With proper training, we can ensure that future legislation is more welfare-oriented and responsive to the needs of society, he stated.

The inaugural session was attended by Chief Minister,  Sh. Nayab Singh Saini, Haryana Vidhan Sabha Speaker. Sh. Harvinder  Kalyan, Karnataka Vidhan Sabha Speaker,  Sh. U T Khader Fareed, and Haryana Vidhan Sabha Deputy Speaker, Dr. Krishan Lal Middha.

Sh. Om Birla praised Haryana for its contribution to democratic values and its achievements in agriculture, industry, and culture. He lauded the state government for creating a historic milestone by procuring all crops at Minimum Support Price under the leadership of Chief Minister, Sh. Nayab Singh Saini.

Constitution as a Living Guide

Highlighting the enduring relevance of the Constitution, Sh. Om Birla said it was drafted after exhaustive debate, dialogue, and consensus-building. It guided the nation at the time of independence and continues to serve as a living inspiration today. Legislatures, within the limits of their defined powers, transform the aspirations of the people into laws, he said.

He also recalled how legislative departments earlier had many seasoned experts, but over time their numbers declined. Prime Minister, Sh. Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister,  Sh. Amit Shah, he said, recognized the importance of regular training in legislative drafting to bridge this gap. Such programmes, he added, allow younger officers to benefit from the experience of senior experts who shaped landmark laws.

Laws must be Clear and People-Centric

The Lok Sabha Speaker stressed that legislative drafting must leave no room for grey-area. If a law is clear, transparent, and simple, it becomes truly useful to citizens. Grey areas in drafting weaken the intent of laws during judicial scrutiny, he said.

He added that democracy thrives on debate, dialogue, and even dissent, provided the ultimate objective remains public welfare. This initiative by the Haryana Vidhan Sabha is a vital step towards creating effective, welfare-driven, and contemporary laws, he said.

Sh. Om Birla underlined that any legislation must reflect people’s aspirations and the real needs of the state. He expressed confidence that the two-day workshop will provide a platform for sharing diverse perspectives, enabling lawmakers to draft stronger laws for citizens’ welfare and state development.

The event was also attended by Chief Secretary, Sh. Anurag Rastogi, Lok Sabha Secretary-General, Sh. Utpal Kumar Singh, and senior officers and staff of the Haryana Vidhan Sabha.

Chandigarh, Sept 26 – Haryana Chief Minister, Nayab Singh Saini said that legislative drafting is not merely a technical exercise, but a powerful means to strengthen democracy, making it more effective and closer to the people. He said that clear and well-framed laws are the true strength of any democratic system. While drafting legislation, it is equally important to keep in mind future challenges and technological advancements.

The Chief Minister was speaking at a two-day training programme on legislative drafting and capacity building, organized by the Haryana Legislative Assembly in collaboration with the Institute of Constitutional and Parliamentary Studies, Lok Sabha, at the Mahatma Gandhi State Institute of Public Administration, Sector 26, Chandigarh.

The workshop was inaugurated by Lok Sabha Speaker, Om Birla. Haryana Assembly Speaker, Harvinder Kalyan, Karnataka Assembly Speaker, U.T. Khader Farid, and Haryana Assembly Deputy Speaker, Dr. Krishan Lal Middha, were present on the occasion.

Nayab Singh Saini said that this is not merely a training programme, but an effort to simplify, strengthen, and make democratic traditions more vibrant and relevant to the needs of the present times. He added that India’s democracy, the largest in the world, draws its strength not only from the electoral process, but also from the clarity, effectiveness, and people-centric nature of its laws. The legislature is the backbone of democracy, and its true power lies in the laws it enacts. You are the ones who draft these laws, and therefore it is vital to remain familiar with contemporary realities and technological progress, he added.

Highlighting the complexity of legislative drafting, the Chief Minister stated that it requires balancing the spirit of the Constitution, the directions of the judiciary, the needs of the executive, and, above all, the aspirations of the people. He underlined that good legislative drafting must always take into account the interests of every section of society.

Every law should embody social justice, equality, and inclusiveness – CM

The Chief Minister said that in today’s rapidly changing society, the digital age has introduced new dimensions to governance and administration. Therefore, modernity and innovation are essential in legislative drafting. He added that the Assembly is not merely a platform for debate and discussion, but also a living symbol of the people’s aspirations and expectations. He said that the responsibility entrusted by the Constitution is sacred, and every law enacted in the Assembly must embody its true spirit. Social justice, equality, and inclusiveness must form the foundation of every bill, he said.

Haryana Legislative Assembly consistently advancing transparency and efficiency in its functioning

Nayab Singh Saini said that Haryana has always upheld the democratic values of the nation. The State Assembly has consistently taken new initiatives to enhance transparency and efficiency in its functioning. Today, the Haryana Assembly is regarded as one of the leading Assembly in the country in the fields of e-legislation, digitization, and transparency. This training programme on legislative drafting is yet another significant step in that direction.

He further said that the training is of immense importance for all officials, as they form the vital link between policy and law. It is through their efforts that a bill is drafted in clear, coherent language and presented before the House. This is not merely a technical responsibility, but also a constitutional duty. “Your pen ensures that the laws enacted are not only fair and just, but also resonate with the aspirations of the people. Therefore, treat this training not simply as a programme, but as an opportunity for public service,” he added.

India’s legislative processes emerging as a model on the international stage

The Chief Minister said that under the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Sh Narendra Modi, the world today recognizes India as the largest and most vibrant democracy. India’s legislative and administrative processes are increasingly setting benchmarks on international platforms. In this context, the responsibility to raise the standards of legislative drafting has become even greater. He added that today’s training programme is an important step in this direction. Here, participants will not only gain insights into the technical aspects of drafting, but also learn about legal, ethical, and constitutional principles, along with the application of emerging technologies such as Artificial Intelligence.

He said that the goal of the Haryana Government is to establish a governance model that is transparent, accountable, and efficient. To realize this vision, the state needs officers and employees who are well-versed in the lawmaking process. The strong and clear laws official draft will form the foundation of a progressive and developed Haryana, he added.

Chief Secretary, Anurag Rastogi, Secretary General of the Lok Sabha, Utpal Kumar Singh, along with officers and employees of the Haryana Legislative Assembly were present on the occasion.

Chandigarh, September 26 – Haryana Energy, Transport and Labour Minister, Sh. Anil Vij said today that people are showing great enthusiasm for the ongoing nationwide special campaign. As part of this, health check-up camps, blood donation drives, and other welfare activities are being organised, and citizens are taking significant benefits from it.

While interacting with media persons today at a health check-up camp organised under nationwide special campaign at Jatav Dharamshala, Mochi Mandal, on 12 Cross Road in Ambala Cantonment, Sh. Vij highlighted the success of the campaign.

He said that the campaign, launched on September 17 to mark Prime Minister, Sh. Narendra Modi’s birthday, will continue until October 2, coinciding with the birth anniversaries of Mahatma Gandhi and Lal Bahadur Shastri. At these medical camps, facilities such as X-rays, ECGs, and diagnostic tests are being provided. Patients receive medicines free of cost, while serious cases are being referred to Civil Hospital. Doctor’s teams from Civil Hospital and MMU Mullana Medical College are actively conducting examinations.

Similarly, blood donation camps are being held across all mandals. While the initial target was to collect 75 units of blood at each camp, turnout has exceeded expectations, reflecting the strong enthusiasm of both citizens and workers, he added.

Earlier, he personally inspected the facilities at the health camp and interacted with patients to understand the services provided. Doctors informed him that multiple specialists were attending to patients and ensuring availability of medicines.

CMO, Dr. Rakesh Sahl, PMO, Dr. Pooja along with other dignitaries were present.

Chandigarh, September 26 – Speaker, Karnataka Legislative Assembly, Sh. U. T. Khader Fareed said that the soul of any law lies in its drafting, and the language used must be simple and easily understood by all. He emphasised that state legislatures should make the best possible laws that serve communities and the public at large.

Sh. Fareed was addressing the first day of a two-day training workshop on ‘Legislative Drafting’ organised for officers and staff of the Haryana Vidhan Sabha and other departments at the Mahatma Gandhi State Institute of Public Administration in Sector 26, Chandigarh.

The Speaker said that while framing laws, state legislatures should not compare themselves with other countries because their geographical and cultural contexts differ from India’s. Commending Haryana Vidhan Sabha for organising the event, he said it had set an inspiring example for other state legislatures.

India has an opportunity to lead through AI: Saakshar Duggal

Advocate, Delhi High Court, Sh. Saakshar Duggal underlined the growing significance of Artificial Intelligence in the present era. He said India has an opportunity to emerge as a leader through AI, but cautioned that it must be used with utmost care. He said that negligence in the use of AI can lead to data leaks, which is a major challenge nowadays. Crimes using AI are on the rise, and new approaches to legislative drafting are needed to curb this issue.

A Bill’s true worth lies in its impact on society: Prof. B. T. Kaul

Former Chairperson, Delhi Judicial Academy, Prof. B. T. Kaul said that the importance of a bill is determined not by the length or brevity of its title but by its intent, purpose, and its overall impact on society. He said that the core of any bill lies in how its provisions affect citizens’ rights, the justice system, and governance. Short and precise titles often help the public understand a bill more easily. A bill’s identity is defined by its language, provisions, and practical outcomes rather than its title alone.

Legislative drafting is the soul of democratic values: Rajiv Prashad

Secretary, Haryana Vidhan Sabha, Sh. Rajiv Prashad today is a very important day for Haryana. The Haryana Legislative Assembly is the first in the country to organize a training programme on legislative drafting. He said that ‘legislative drafting’ embodies the soul of a bill within democratic values and should always reflect clarity, accuracy, and a spirit of public welfare.