CHANDIGARH/AMRITSAR, April 6:

          In a major breakthrough amidst the ongoing drive to make Punjab a safe and secure state as per directions of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, Counter Intelligence (CI) wing of Punjab Police has busted an ISI-backed terror module being operated by Pakistan Intelligence Operatives (PIOs) with the arrest of three accused persons and recovered two Arges hand grenades along with a foreign-made Glock pistol from their possession, said Director General of Police (DGP) Punjab Gaurav Yadav here on Monday.

          Those arrested have been identified as Sarabjit Singh, a resident of village Ammishah in Tarn Taran, Bikramjit Singh, a resident of village Nangal Pannuwan in Amritsar and Amandeep Singh, a resident of Indra Colony in Amritsar.

          DGP Gaurav Yadav said that the recovered grenades bear markings of Pakistan Ordnance Factory (POF), indicating cross-border linkages.

          The DGP said that preliminary investigation has revealed that the module was involved in systematic targeting of police establishments across multiple states, which has now been successfully averted. Efforts are ongoing  to identify, track, and apprehend other members of the module, he added.

          Sharing operational details, AIG State Special Operations Cell (SSOC) Amritsar Sukhminder Singh Mann said that in an intelligence led operation, police teams from SSOC arrested Sarabjit Singh and Amandeep Singh, and recovered hand grenades and pistol from their possession.

          The AIG said that preliminary investigations revealed that the key operative and primary contact of PIOs in the group, Bikramjit Singh was operating from Deesa in Gujarat. The information was immediately shared with ATS Gujarat and with their active cooperation, accused Bikramjit Singh was arrested by a team of SSOC Amritsar, he said.

          AIG Sukhminder Mann said that during investigation it was revealed that all accused were in touch with PIOs via social media platforms. Probe has also revealed that acting on directions from ISI handlers, the group was also planning to carry out grenade attacks on various Police establishments in Punjab and other states, he added.

          In this regard, a case FIR No. 21 dated 03-04-2026 has been registered under section 4 of the Explosive Substances (Amendment) Act, section 25 of the Arms Act, and section 61(2) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) at Police Station SSOC Amritsar.

Chandigarh, April 6:

In a major push to transform state’s agrarian landscape, Chief Minister S Bhagwant Singh Mann led Punjab Government has finalised an annual action plan of Rs 1,388 crore to execute various projects of the Agriculture Department for FY 2026-27, informed S. Gurmeet Singh Khudian, Minister of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare.

Chairing a high-level meeting to review projects at his office here on Monday, S. Khudian said that the action plan, which has already been submitted to the Union Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare for approval, lays special emphasis on crop residue management, water conservation, diversification, and natural farming.

The single largest outlay of Rs 600 crore has been allocated under the Crop Residue Management (CRM) scheme to tackle the issue of farm fires, informed the Agriculture Minister, while stating, “Our goal is to provide in-situ and ex-situ machinery to farmers at subsidised rates to ensure a permanent solution to stubble burning.”

To address depleting water tables, Rs 33.33 crore has been earmarked for the ‘Per Drop More Crop’ component, which will promote efficient water application devices like drips, sprinklers and rain guns. Meanwhile, Rs 51.85 crore will go towards seed improvement and cotton demonstration projects, and Rs 95 crore has been kept under the Sub-Mission on Agricultural Mechanisation (SMAM) to boost farm efficiency.

The Agriculture Minister highlighted that Rs 50.30 crore has been set aside for crop diversification to steer farmers away from water-guzzling paddy towards maize, pulses and oilseeds. In line with the national push for chemical-free agriculture, Rs 8.25 crore has been proposed for natural farming. Additionally, Rs 4.17 crore will support Atmanirbharata in pulses.

Other key allocations include Rs 20 crore for soil health and fertility management, Rs 60.59 crore for agricultural extension activities. These integrated interventions will not only raise farm incomes but also secure Punjab’s ecological future, S. Khudian asserted.

S. Gurmeet Singh Khudian directed the department officials to gear up for the upcoming kharif season, emphasising timely preparation and implementation of plans.

PATIALA; 6 April 2026:

Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann on Monday sharpened his attack on the Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD), stating that leaders who were caught stealing electricity at a public rally have not abandoned their habit of looting Punjab, and warned that even out of power they continue such acts, raising serious concerns about the damage they would inflict if they returned to government. Calling them habitual offenders who earlier looted sand and buses and are now resorting to power theft, he said such conduct reflects their entrenched mindset of exploiting public resources.

Building on this, the Chief Minister on Monday called upon people to socially boycott leaders of the Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD), asserting that those responsible for beadbi (sacrilege) and atrocities against the people must be held accountable.

Addressing a gathering in Patiala, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “These people bruised the psyche of every common man by allowing the sacrilege of Sri Guru Granth Sahib ji during their regime. These traitors can never be forgiven as they are responsible for desecration of Sri Guru Granth Sahib and their hands were drenched with the blood of innocent masses.”

He added, “Support to Akali Dal means consent to bring back an era of sacrilege of Sri Guru Granth Sahib ji, firing on innocent protestors, and atrocities on the common man.”

Calling for firm public action, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “Those who have ruined the generations of the state and were responsible for sacrilege of Sri Guru Granth Sahib ji deserve no leniency and must be taught a lesson. Social boycott of these leaders is the need of the hour so that they are not able to cause any further loss to the state and its people.” He wondered how some people, due to vested interests, were raising slogans in favour of such leaders despite their actions.

Highlighting the political functioning of the Akali leadership, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann asserted, “These people have always mixed politics and religion for their vested interests and have always undermined the authority of Sri Akal Takht Sahib.” Citing examples, he added, “Jathedars are appointed and ousted as per the whims and fancies of the Akali leadership, giving a severe blow to their position.”

Taking a dig at the Akali Dal’s so-called ‘Punjab Bachao Yatra’, he remarked, “The so-called Punjab Bachao Yatra is actually a ‘Parivar Bachao Yatra’. After looting the state for 15 years, they must explain from whom they are trying to save Punjab.”

CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “The Akalis have plundered the state mercilessly, bruised the psyche of Punjabis emotionally, and patronised several mafias in the state. The Akali leadership can never be forgiven as it was responsible for the genocide of several generations of the state as the drug trade was patronised by them and flourished during their long era of misrule.”

Referring to Sukhbir Singh Badal, he added, “Sukhbir Singh Badal frequently defames AAP karyakartas because they raise the voice of the people.”

Continuing his criticism, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “These people became affluent and amassed huge wealth by usurping facilities meant for the common man. The former Deputy Chief Minister has forgotten that the state deteriorated during their long misrule when the mafia ruled the roost.” He further added, “Even late Parkash Singh Badal had never made Sukhbir the head of the state as he knew the former Deputy Chief Minister would put the state in disarray.”

Targeting priorities of the opposition, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “Instead of talking about education and welfare schemes, Sukhbir is talking about buffaloes, which reflects his myopic mindset that he does not want the youth of the state to become officers.”

He added, “The Akali leader is begging for one chance from the people, probably forgetting that they were given a chance five times. Instead of serving the people, they looted the masses and the state, due to which they were shown the door by the people.”

Referring to a recent incident, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “At a function in Sri Muktsar Sahib, the Akali leadership was caught stealing power, and the state government will lodge a case against them. What welfare can be expected from such people who indulge in petty crimes like power theft?” He contrasted this by stating that his government is making strenuous efforts for the well-being of every section of society.

CM Bhagwant Singh Mann further said, “Sukhbir Singh Badal is a convent-educated political leader who is not aware of the basic topography of Punjab but wants to attain political power in the state. These leaders plundered the state mercilessly and minted money illegally during their days in power. They deserve no mercy as they derailed the development of the state for their vested political interests.”

He added, “These people have only ‘one-way’ pockets as they acquire money through illegal means rather than giving it to the people. The former Deputy Chief Minister distributed money from Golaks during floods rather than from his own business.” He further remarked, “The former Deputy Chief Minister is totally ignorant about the history, topography, and culture of the state and cannot even differentiate between crops.”

Taking aim at traditional political parties, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “The Congress and Akali Dal acted like termites that ruined the state after independence, causing Punjab to lag behind in development. They damaged the state economically, socially, politically, and even religiously, but Punjab is now back on the right track due to the steps taken by our government.”

Highlighting the social impact of past policies, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “Due to the wrong policies of these leaders, youth got addicted to drugs and many left the country in search of better opportunities. These parties only wait for their turn in power to plunder the wealth of the state. They are never concerned about the welfare of people and only seek to satisfy their lust for power.”

Drawing a contrast in governance approach, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “From our stage, we speak about education, health, power, agriculture, and other sectors, whereas other parties focus only on grabbing power. These opportunist leaders are baffled as people are not responding to them because their agenda is limited to their families rather than the public.” He added that people had elected the AAP due to the incompetence and misrule of previous governments.

Referring again to opposition parties, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “These traditional parties have never been loyal to Punjab and its people. They are envious because AAP has set the agenda of welfare of the common people.” He quipped that the Congress leadership is a divided house, stating that more leaders are seen on stage than karyakartas in their rallies, and added that they lack vision for Punjab.

Emphasising long-term solutions, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann asserted, “No freebie or concession can eliminate poverty or social evils; education is the key to lifting people out of this cycle by improving their standard of living.” He added, “Education is the light that dispels darkness, and that is why the government is focusing on transforming government schools, leading to improved student performance.”

On power and agriculture, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “For the first time in the state’s history, more than eight hours of uninterrupted power was supplied to farm tube wells during the paddy season, and farmers are now receiving daytime electricity, transforming their lives.” He reiterated that every penny of public money is being used judiciously for welfare.

Highlighting investment and healthcare, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “The best parameter of law and order is investment, and the fact that Tata Steel has set up its second-largest plant in Punjab reflects confidence in the state.” He added, “Under Mukh Mantri Sehat Yojna, health cards are being issued to 65 lakh families, entitling them to free treatment up to ₹10 lakh, with over 30 lakh beneficiaries already covered.”

He further said, “Around 1.65 lakh people have already received free treatment under the scheme, and people should take maximum benefit of these cards. Tax money belongs to the people and is being spent on their welfare through development, schools, hospitals, and roads.” He added that the government has provided free electricity to 90% of households, created over 65,000 government jobs without corruption, improved roads, closed toll plazas saving ₹70 lakh daily, and is strengthening infrastructure.

On social welfare measures, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “Under Mawan Dheeyan Satkar Yojna, every woman will receive ₹1,000 per month and ₹1,500 for women belonging to Scheduled Castes, with direct transfer to bank accounts. Women already receiving social security pensions will also be eligible.” He added, “Around 97% of women in Punjab are expected to benefit, and ₹9,300 crore has been allocated in the budget.”

Responding to critics, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “Those mocking this scheme or raising baseless questions do not understand the value of ₹1,000 for a common person. Those who spend more than ₹5,000 per meal from illegally earned money do not value this support, which is crucial for households that struggle even during festivals.” He added that such affluent leaders are disconnected from the realities of ordinary families.

Cabinet Ministers Harpal Singh Cheema, Aman Arora, Lal Chand Kataruchak, Harbhajan Singh ETO, Barinder Goyal, Tarunpreet Singh Sondh, and Hardeep Singh Mundian, along with Vice Chancellor Maharaja Bhupinder Singh Punjab Sports University Dr. Pushpinder Singh Gill, were also present on the occasion.

CHANDIGARH; 6 April 2026:

Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann on Monday asserted that Punjab’s power sector has undergone a structural turnaround under the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government, with the once loss-making department now recording profits even while providing free electricity to 90% of households. He highlighted that the government not only ensured zero electricity bills for the majority of families through 600 units of free power, but also reversed the earlier trend of selling public assets by acquiring the 540 MW Govindwal Thermal Power Plant and significantly improving its efficiency.

The Chief Minister underlined that tariffs have been reduced across categories including commercial and industrial consumers, farmers are receiving uninterrupted power supply, and infrastructure has been strengthened through new substations and transformers. Emphasising employment generation, he noted that 9,593 youth have been given jobs in the power sector with recruitment for 1,750 more posts underway, while the Punjab Power Department (PSPCL) has secured an A+ rating, ranking second nationally, reflecting the government’s push to make Punjab self-reliant in power while guaranteeing free and 24×7 electricity for the people.

Addressing a press conference, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “The AAP government has set a new record by providing cheap and uninterrupted power supply to every sector. For the first time, power is being supplied regularly to people without additional financial burden,” said CM Bhagwant Singh Mann. He added, “When we assumed office, only 22% canal water was being used for irrigation, but today 78% is being utilised, and it will be enhanced to 90% by the coming paddy season.”

Highlighting irrigation reforms, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann asserted, “Bhakra Canal has a capacity of 9,500 cusecs, but due to our efforts, 11,000 cusecs of canal water is now being supplied to farmers. In a way, Punjab has created a new Bhakra canal without acquiring even a single inch of land.” He added, “For the first time, every single drop of water is being accounted for, boosting agricultural productivity, and free power to the agriculture sector will continue without any review.”

On power supply, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “For the first time, farmers received more than eight hours of power supply during paddy season, with 95% supply ensured during daytime.” He further added, “300 units of free electricity per month are being provided to domestic consumers, and around 90% of households are receiving zero electricity bills.”

Detailing employment generation, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann asserted, “Since April 2022, around 9,593 employees have been recruited in PSPCL and PSTCL, including 8,014 direct recruitments and 1,579 jobs on compassionate grounds.” He added, “Recruitment for 1,181 posts in PSPCL and 569 in PSTCL is underway and will be completed by June 2026.”

Highlighting record achievements, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “Punjab met a peak power demand of 16,670 MW on June 5, 2025, surpassing the previous record of 16,058 MW on June 29, 2024.” He added, “While public assets are being privatised elsewhere, the Punjab Government acquired a private thermal plant at a cost of ₹1,080 crore, setting a new benchmark.”

Referring to the acquisition, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “A new plant of similar capacity would cost ₹4,320 crore, making this the cheapest deal by any government. The plant earlier known as GVK Thermal Power Plant has been renamed after Sri Guru Amar Das Ji.” He added, “Since its acquisition in February 2024, the Guru Amar Das Thermal Plant at Goindwal Sahib has improved significantly, with PLF rising from 34% to 65% in FY 2024–25, touching 90% in July 2024 and 82% in July 2025.”

On infrastructure and fuel supply, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “Transmission capacity has increased from 7,400/8,000 MW to 10,400/10,900 MW, enabling higher power import from the national grid.” He added, “Coal supply from Pachwara Coal Mine has resumed, supplying 70 lakh metric tonnes in 2024–25 and saving ₹1,462 crore since October 2022.”

He further affirmed, “There is no coal shortage in any thermal plant, with Ropar having 41 days stock, Lehra Mohabbat 37 days, and Goindwal Sahib 32 days.” He added that the 206 MW Shahpur Kandi Hydel Project is expected to begin generation by May 2027, with ₹5,192.51 crore already spent till September 2025.

Promoting clean energy, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “The share of green energy will be increased from 20% to 80% in the next six years.” He added, “2,720 MW solar power has been tied up at ₹2.33–₹2.97 per unit, compared to ₹15.20 per unit during previous regimes.” He further stated, “2,062 MW solar is under implementation, 658 MW has been commissioned, and 581 MW rooftop solar has been installed.”

Detailing network strengthening, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann asserted, “26 new 66 KV substations have been set up, 194 transformers upgraded, 34 new added, with 2,738 MVA capacity addition and 337 circuit km of new lines.”

Announcing a new initiative, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “The government will soon launch a scheme to put high-tension wires passing through farmers’ fields underground, starting from my native village where 413 tube wells and 1,100 बिजली poles are spread across 2,000 acres.” He added, “This will reduce risk to farmers and their crops and provide major relief.”

On law and order, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “Punjab Police is being upgraded to tackle cybercrime effectively, and strict action will be taken against black sheep colluding with drug smugglers.” He added that following complaints in Bathinda, police personnel at a station had been transferred.

Addressing farmers’ concerns, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann asserted, “Special Girdawari has been ordered to assess wheat crop damage due to recent weather, and compensation will be provided as per norms after reports from Deputy Commissioners.” He assured, “The government is committed to safeguarding farmers’ interests and will compensate losses caused by natural calamities.”

Cabinet Minister Sanjeev Arora and others were also present on the occasion.

CHANDIGARH, April 6:

          As the decisive ‘Gangstran Te Vaar’ campaign launched under the directions of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann enters its 76th day, Punjab Police on Monday conducted 322 raids at the 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 has been conducting special operations across the state.

          On Day 76, Police teams arrested 133 individuals after recovering two weapons, taking the total arrests to 19,248 since the launch of the campaign.

 Apart from this, preventive action has been taken against 43 persons, whereas, 46 persons were verified and released after questioning. Police teams have also arrested two 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 401st day with 101 drug smugglers arrested on Monday and recovered 265 grams heroin, 2 kg opium, 581 intoxicant tablets/capsules and Rs 10.54 lakhs drug money from their possession. With this, the number of total drug smugglers arrested has reached to 57,321 in just 401 days. As part of De-addiction, the Punjab Police has convinced 17 persons to undergo de-addiction and rehabilitation treatment today.

PATIALA; 6 April 2026:

Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann on Monday flagged off 250 new PRTC buses in Patiala, describing the move as a major step towards strengthening public transport, generating employment, and accelerating overall development across Punjab. CM Bhagwant Singh Mann outlined his government’s dual focus on infrastructure expansion and people-centric governance.

Sharing details of the transport expansion, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “Today in Patiala, 250 new buses were flagged off and added to the PRTC fleet. This is not merely an improvement in transport facilities, but a significant step towards providing people with better, safer and more comfortable travel. This will strengthen public transport and also create new employment opportunities for the youth. In the coming days, more than 300 additional buses will be inducted into the PRTC fleet. The government is consistently making such efforts to enhance public convenience and move Punjab forward on the path of progress.”

Emphasising the scale of the expansion, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann stated, “It is a matter of immense pride and satisfaction that 254 ordinary buses and 100 mini buses will be added to the fleet of PRTC by the end of May 2026.” He also noted that tenders have already been floated for 309 more buses, further strengthening the state’s transport network.

Highlighting the employment potential, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “This will pave the way for creating employment opportunities for 681 persons,” adding, “Around 110 ordinary buses were earlier added to the PRTC fleet in 2024, which had provided employment to 165 persons.” He further added, “Tender for induction of 309 more buses has also been floated, which will provide employment to 928 persons.”

Underlining the improved financial health of the corporation, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann stated, “PRTC has registered a 53% increase in gross revenue, rising from ₹607.09 crore in the financial year 2021–22 to ₹927.83 crore in 2024–25.” He added, “In the current financial year 2025–26, PRTC is expected to cross ₹950 crore in gross revenue, reflecting nearly 57% growth.”

Reaffirming the AAP Government’s commitment to welfare, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “Since 2022, PRTC has provided free travel facility to 34.63 crore women commuters of Punjab at a cost of ₹1574 crore.” He further added, “Under the Mukh Mantri Tirath Yatra scheme, PRTC has provided free HVAC bus travel facility worth ₹2.21 crore, enabling 9,529 passengers to visit religious places within and outside Punjab.”

Linking transport expansion with broader development, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “With the expansion of the bus fleet, people in both urban and rural areas will be able to travel safely and comfortably.” He added that Punjab is rapidly moving on the path of development and the government is accelerating efforts to bridge the gaps of decades.

CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “Our government is undertaking multi-dimensional development to restore Punjab to its former glory as a Rangla Punjab.”

Detailing development works in the region, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “Since assuming office, our government has spent approximately ₹400 crore on development works across various departments in the Patiala Rural constituency, transforming its overall landscape.” He further noted that crores of rupees have been continuously invested since 2022 to strengthen infrastructure and public services.

On agriculture, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “To make farming profitable again, which had become a loss-making occupation, our government has spent ₹60 crore through the Agriculture and Farmers Welfare Department on multiple initiatives.”

Highlighting improvements in healthcare, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann stated, “₹7.91 crore has been spent over the past four years on three projects through the Health and Family Welfare Department, while an additional ₹14.54 crore is currently being spent on expanding healthcare services.”

On education, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “With the aim of providing world-class school education to Punjab’s children, the government has spent ₹825.22 crore on eight projects through the School Education Department between 2022 and 2026, with additional projects worth ₹80.92 crore currently underway.”

Focusing on infrastructure, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann stated, “₹6.71 crore has been spent on 17 works through the Public Works Department, while ₹21.02 crore is being spent on 11 ongoing works and ₹23.03 crore will be spent on 21 additional projects.”

On rural infrastructure, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann asserted, “₹12.98 crore has been spent through the Punjab Mandi Board on eight works, including repairs, new construction, and mandi infrastructure expansion, while additional works are ongoing and planned.”

Highlighting flood prevention measures, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann stated, “₹1.27 crore has been spent since 2022 on river cleaning and flood control works, with more projects underway and planned.”

On urban and sewerage infrastructure, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann noted, “₹1.34 crore has been spent on two works through the Sewerage Board, while two major projects worth ₹366 crore are currently underway to strengthen infrastructure.”

Detailing urban development, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann added, “₹42.16 crore has been spent over the past four years on 114 works across wards through the Municipal Corporation, with several projects ongoing and more in the pipeline.”

On water conservation, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “₹1.24 crore has been spent on underground pipelines and water preservation works through the Soil Conservation Department, with ongoing and upcoming projects further strengthening efforts.”

He further highlighted investments across departments including Rural Development, Patiala Development Authority, Punjab State Power Corporation Limited, Panchayati Raj, and Water Supply and Sanitation, noting that extensive works are underway and planned to strengthen infrastructure and improve quality of life.

Seeking continued public support, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann asserted, “To continue these development works at the same pace, we require the support and cooperation of all of you.” He added, “I am confident that just as you supported our party wholeheartedly in the previous elections, you will continue to stand with us in the 2027 elections as well.”

Chandigarh/Udaipur, April 6, 2026:
The Governing Body meeting of the North Zone Cultural Centre was held today in Udaipur under the chairmanship of the Hon’ble Governor of Punjab and Chairman of the Centre, Shri Gulab Chand Kataria. Representatives and nominated members from Rajasthan, Haryana, Punjab, Chandigarh, Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh, Jammu & Kashmir, and Ladakh participated in the meeting. The Additional Secretary, Ministry of Culture, Government of India, also joined the meeting online and shared her suggestions.
Several important decisions were taken to promote cultural exchange. It was decided to prepare a detailed plan for organizing Kashmir and Ladakh festivals in Chandigarh, Punjab festival in Rajasthan, and Rajasthan festival in Kashmir.
Approval was granted for the construction of an auditorium under the Tagore Cultural Complex scheme at Kalagram, Chandigarh. Approximately 40% of the cost (around ₹5.6 crore) will be provided by the Chandigarh Administration. All members welcomed and appreciated this decision.
Additionally, annual awards for folk artists and young artists from member states were approved. A total prize amount of ₹12 lakh is provided from the personal funds of the Chairman and Governor, making it a unique initiative of the Centre.
The expenditure of ₹14.56 crore for the year 2024–25 was approved, while a program budget of ₹15 crore for 2025–26 was proposed. An establishment expenditure of ₹5.10 crore was also approved.
Discussions were held on the ₹4 crore renovation of the Centre’s Patiala office, and emphasis was laid on expediting the construction of a boundary wall on the allotted land. Instructions were also issued to initiate the tender process at the earliest for a multi-purpose hall at Kalagram, to be built at a cost of ₹2.54 crore.
The meeting expressed satisfaction that the North Zone Cultural Centre was entrusted with the responsibility of being the nodal agency for the cultural program held at Kartavya Path on Republic Day. The Centre successfully executed the program with efficiency and cost-effectiveness. The performance, featuring around 2,700 artists, received a Special Jury Award. Notably, the event was completed at a cost of ₹15 crore against the approved budget of ₹22.5 crore.
In his address, Hon’ble Chairman Shri Kataria emphasized the need for cultural exchange among states to preserve the country’s rich cultural heritage. He also stressed the importance of developing a robust system to identify talent at a young age and provide them opportunities to showcase their skills.
The meeting also appreciated various events organized by the Centre, including the National Craft Mela (Chandigarh), Gita Jayanti (Kurukshetra), Patiala Music Festival, Harivallabh Music Festival (Jalandhar), Sindhu Darshan (Ladakh), Bharat Parv (Red Fort), Lokarang (Jaipur), and other cultural programs. The members also appreciated the monthly theatre evenings and efforts to revive the Teej festival in rural Punjab.
At the end of the meeting, all members lauded the Centre’s activities and expressed their gratitude to the Chairman. The meeting concluded with a vote of thanks.

Chandigarh:

A team of PGIMER doctors led by Prof. Dhandapani SS and Prof. Hemant Bhagat has published, for the first time in the world literature, on the molecular footprint of keyhole brain surgery compared with that of traditional neurosurgery in Neurosurgical Review, a reputed international journal.

According to press statement, Minimally invasive keyhole surgery is an evolving concept in Neurosurgery that aims to achieve a smaller opening in the skull to reach the target area with minimal collateral injury to nearby structures. It is used in a wide variety of diseases, including aneurysms and tumors. Though it is cosmetically better, with less post-operative pain and other side effects, there has never been solid evidence before this study on whether it is truly minimally invasive in terms of its biochemical footprint.

The PGIMER team of doctors, Dhandapani, Prasant, Tejasvi, Mukilan, Apinderpreet, Navneet, Vivek, Sushant, Chandrashekhar, Hemant, and SK Gupta have published a study in Neurosurgical Review on the comparison of levels of CRP, an inflammatory biomarker, and Caspase-3, an indicator of apoptosis, from before treatment to after treatment across various modalities, and shown keyhole surgery to have less inflammatory reaction than open neurosurgery. This is very relevant, as it shows why keyhole brain surgery can offer significant long-term benefits, such as reduced risk of post-operative seizures and cognitive deficits.