Chandigarh, April 30:

The Punjab Government, under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, is working rapidly for the overall development of the state. In pursuance of this objective, Punjab Defence Services Welfare Minister Mr. Mohinder Bhagat  today held an important meeting with officials of the Defence Services Welfare Department at the Punjab Civil Secretariat, Chandigarh, regarding the early commencement of restoration work of the historic Sainik School Kapurthala building.

On this occasion, Principal Secretary, Defence Services Welfare Department, Sumer Singh Gurjar, Director Brig. Bhupinder Singh Dhillon (Retd.) and Group Captain and Principal, Sainik School Kapurthala, I. Manoj Menon, were present.

During the meeting, officials briefed the Minister in detail about the present condition of the Sainik School Kapurthala building, the restoration plan, and the progress of the project. Administrative issues related to the school and budget matters were also discussed.

During the meeting, Minister Mohinder Bhagat directed the officials to immediately prepare a comprehensive plan for the restoration of the historic Sainik School Kapurthala building. He said that a detailed list of the required funds should be prepared and submitted at the earliest.

The Minister further stated that no shortage of funds required for the restoration of the school would be allowed. He directed that coordinated action be initiated with the Public Works Department for the project. He also warned that strict action would be taken against officials showing negligence or causing unnecessary delays in the work.

Officials present in the meeting assured the Minister that all works would be completed within the stipulated time and the required action would be initiated immediately.

Chandigarh, April 30, 2026:

The Punjab Vigilance Bureau (VB), in line with the zero tolerance policy adopted by the Chief Minister S. Bhagwant Singh Mann led Punjab government, has apprehended Patwari Harmanjeet Singh posted at revenue office Kattu Sub-tehsil Dhanaula district Barnala for accepting a bribe Rs. 4000/-.

Disclosing this here today an official spokesperson of the state VB said the arrest has been made following a complaint lodged by a resident of village Kattu district Barnala on the Chief Minister’s Anti Corruption Action Line portal.

He said that the complainant had taken a loan against his cultivable land from Punjab Gramin Bank and repaid his entire loan to the bank. In this regard, Complainant alleged that accused Patwari demanded bribe of Rs. 5000/- in lieu of making entry in land record regarding clearance of Bank loan. Complainant had recorded entire conversation of demanding bribe.

In this regard, a case under prevention of corruption act has been registered against  the accused at VB Police Station Patiala. Further investigation into this case is underway, he added.

CHANDIGARH, APRIL 30:

In a major relief for thousands of students, the Punjab School Education Board (PSEB) has opened online registration process for a Special Mercy Chance for those who could not clear their Class 10th or 12th board examinations in the last 16 years. Eligible candidates can apply on the PSEB website till May 25, 2026.

Sharing the details, Punjab Education Minister S. Harjot Singh Bains said that the move is dedicated to the 350th martyrdom anniversary of Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib Ji. It aims to give a fresh opportunity to students who could not pass their Class 10th or 12th board exams between 2010 and 2025 to complete their schooling and improve career prospects.

Elaborating on the eligibility criteria, S. Bains said that the special chance covers candidates who appeared for Class 10th or 12th exams between March 2010 & March 2025 and have exhausted all reappear or compartment chances, or wish to improve their performance. It also includes candidates who appeared between March 2010 and March 2026 and were declared failed, provided they have passed at least one main subject. The chance further extends to students from the Open School stream for Classes 10th and 12th.

The online application form and detailed instructions are available on the official PSEB website www.pseb.ac.in, he informed.

This Special Mercy Chance will prove to be a golden opportunity for students who wish to complete their unfinished education and give new direction to their future, S. Harjot Singh Bains stated, while adding that the state Govt is opening doors of hope for thousands of young Punjabis.

SATAUJ (SANGRUR); 30th April 2026:

Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann on Thursday called upon people across the state to actively participate in Census 2027 by completing their self-enumeration and registering Punjabi as their mother tongue, emphasising that crucial policy decisions on Punjab’s socio-economic development depend on accurate census data.

Completing his own self-enumeration at his native village Satauj through the official online Census portal, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann set the tone for a citizen-led, technology-driven census process. He said, “Several key decisions related to the socio-economic development of Punjab depend on census data. It is crucial that people come forward and register Punjabi as their mother tongue to ensure accurate representation.”

Launching the first phase of Census 2027, titled “House Listing and Housing Census”, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann highlighted the Bhagwant Mann Government’s push toward digital inclusion. He stated, “By completing my self-enumeration through the official online portal, I want to demonstrate that this process is simple, accessible, and citizen-centric. This is an important initiative to encourage people to actively participate in the digital census process.”

CM Bhagwant Singh Mann urged residents across Punjab to embrace this technology-driven exercise and contribute actively. He said, “My participation is meant to set an example so that people across the state provide accurate and timely information. I appeal to all residents to make maximum use of the self-enumeration facility available from April 30 to May 14 and contribute toward building a comprehensive and reliable national database.”

Emphasising the importance of reliable data, he stated, “A robust database is essential for effective planning and policy formulation. Accurate census data forms the backbone of governance, ensuring that welfare schemes, infrastructure development, and equitable distribution of resources reach every section of society.”

Highlighting the benefits of digital enumeration, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “Self-enumeration is a key feature of Census 2027, allowing individuals to conveniently fill in their demographic and socio-economic details online. This initiative enhances transparency, improves efficiency, and ensures greater accuracy of data.”

He further added, “The digital approach reduces dependence on manual processes, enables faster data collection, and strengthens the integrity of the national database.”

Outlining the next phase, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “The first phase of Census 2027 will also include door-to-door surveys from May 15 to June 13, 2026. During this period, 33 questions related to housing conditions, amenities, and assets will be asked, and every household will be counted to ensure that no family is left out of this important national exercise.”

SANGRUR; 30th April 2026:

Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann on Thursday dedicated an ultra-modern Community Health Centre in Sangrur, marking a major expansion of rural healthcare infrastructure that will benefit residents of 85 villages. Equipped with round-the-clock emergency services, surgical facilities, treatment for serious illnesses and specialist care for children, the 30-bed hospital in Kauharia village stands as a long-overdue intervention, coming nearly 80 years after Independence.

Highlighting how earlier governments neglected regions like Dirba and kept development restricted to a few, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann asserted that his government is reversing this legacy by investing public money back into villages through hospitals, schools, libraries and roads.

Addressing a press conference, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “In order to impart quality health services to people, we have dedicated the Community Health Centre at village Kauhrian.” He added, “This ambitious project has been completed at a cost of ₹13.23 crore and the centre has a capacity of 30 beds.” Highlighting its historical significance, he said, “After nearly 80 years of Independence, people of Kauharia village are celebrating getting their first 30-bed hospital.” Tracing its evolution, he noted, “This Community Health Centre was originally established in 1962 as a Primary Health Centre.”

Detailing the infrastructure, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “The new Community Health Centre will have four OPDs (Outpatient Departments), one emergency block, two labour operation theatres, one minor operation theatre and two major operation theatres.” He further stated, “It will also have a nursing station, two general wards, one ultrasound room, one laboratory, one X-ray room, three doctor consultation rooms and other essential facilities.”

Highlighting its impact, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “The new CHC will directly benefit the village population of 4,100 people.” He added, “Additionally, it will serve as a boon for 85 surrounding villages, providing healthcare services to around 35,000 people.”

Emphasising round-the-clock care, the Chief Minister said, “The centre will have 24×7 emergency healthcare services and doctors will be available for surgeries and treatment of serious illnesses.” He further noted, “The CHC will also have paediatric specialists for treating children’s diseases, and free treatment along with all necessary tests for mothers and children will be provided.”

Underlining affordability, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “Patients will receive free X-ray, ECG and blood test facilities, and medicines will also be provided free of cost.” He added, “Cashless treatment will be available under the Mukh Mantri Sehat Yojna at this CHC.”

Pointing to the government’s broader vision, he said, “This hospital should have been built years ago, but previous governments remained confined to their own families.” He added, “Our government will continue to return public money to people in the form of schools, libraries, hospitals and roads in villages.”

Expanding on specialised care, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “Treatment for dental diseases will also be provided by a specialist dental doctor.” He further stated, “For de-addiction treatment, an OOAT Centre (Opioid Agonist Therapy Centre) will provide medicines and treatment for drug addiction patients.”

Reinforcing the government’s commitment, Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema said, “Previous governments kept the Dirba region backward; Bhagwant Mann Government has enhanced its dignity by providing a medical college and hospital.”

Highlighting the focus on universal healthcare, Health Minister Dr. Balbir Singh said, “Bhagwant Mann Government is committed to the health of every Punjabi; allocating ₹2,000 crore for health insurance is the biggest proof.”

Chandigarh:

The Haryana Government is making continuous efforts at the global level to give new momentum to industrial development in the state. In this series of initiatives, a high-level delegation of the Haryana Government will visit Tanzania on July 5. These efforts will not only strengthen Haryana’s global identity but will also help attract capital investment. In addition, possibilities of trade and investment cooperation between Haryana and African countries in various sectors will also be explored.

A spokesperson of the department said that a Haryana Government delegation will undertake a seven-day visit to participate in the 50th Dar-es-Salaam International Trade Fair in Tanzania beginning July 5. A Haryana Pavilion will also be set up at the fair. The Department of Foreign Cooperation has been engaging with various stakeholders with the objective of making Haryana a hub of global investment through the “Go Global” approach. During the visit, representatives from the farming, trade, IT, and pharma sectors will participate and discussions will be held to enhance cooperation with Tanzania in these areas through agreements and collaborations.

It is noteworthy that Haryana has recorded an unprecedented growth of around 395 percent in exports, which is strong evidence of the state’s robust industrial policies and investment-friendly environment.

The spokesperson said that Haryana is no longer limited to being only a manufacturing centre, but has emerged as a strong export hub on the global trade map. Facilities such as “Export Booster” are being provided to exporters. The limit of Export Freight Subsidy Support has been increased from Rs 10 lakh to Rs 30 lakh per unit per year, which will significantly reduce export costs and enhance competitiveness. To connect the MSME sector with the global market, the “MSME Global Industries Matching Programme” is being launched to accelerate investment, employment generation, and other economic activities in the sector.

Chandigarh:

At the 39th Convocation of PGIMER held today, 682 graduates were conferred degrees across multiple medical disciplines, while 95 medals were awarded to meritorious students in recognition of their outstanding academic achievements, further reinforcing PGIMER’s enduring legacy of excellence in medical education, research, and patient care.

The prestigious ceremony was graced by Shri Jagat Prakash Nadda, Hon’ble Union Minister of Health & Family Welfare and Chemicals & Fertilizers, Government of India, as the Chief Guest. Shri Gulab Chand Kataria, Hon’ble Governor of Punjab and Administrator, UT Chandigarh, attended as the Esteemed Guest, while Dr. Vinod K. Paul, Former Member, NITI Aayog, joined as the Guest of Honour. Prof. Vivek Lal, Director, PGIMER, and Prof. R.K. Ratho, Dean (Academics) also shared the dais with the dignitaries. .

Delivering the Convocation address, Shri Jagat Prakash Nadda emphasized the need to combine technological advancement with compassion in medical practice as he stated, “Technology will shape the future of medicine, but compassion must remain the soul of healthcare. Artificial intelligence, telemedicine, and precision medicine can advance treatment, yet nothing can replace the healing power of human touch and empathy.”

Lauding PGIMER’s contribution to India’s healthcare ecosystem, the Hon’ble Minister remarked, “PGIMER continues to strengthen its position as a premier centre of medical education, patient care, and research excellence. With over 850 ongoing extramural research projects and more than 100 intramural projects, the institute reflects a strong culture of innovation, scientific inquiry, and evidence-based medicine.”

Highlighting India’s healthcare transformation, Shri Nadda noted, “A decade ago, India had only 387 medical colleges; today, that number has risen to 820. Undergraduate medical seats have increased from 51,000 to 1,26,000, with a target to add 75,000 more UG and PG seats in the next five years, of which 28,000 have already been added in the last two years. Similarly, postgraduate seats have grown significantly from 31,000 to 85,000, reflecting the remarkable transformation of India’s medical education landscape.”

Reflecting on the larger responsibility of doctors, the Hon’ble Minister  stated, “Medical education is not merely a personal achievement; it is a privilege nurtured by society and supported by the nation. Every young doctor must carry forward this responsibility with humility, compassion, and commitment to give back to society.”

The Hon’ble Minister, while reflecting on anecdotes from his own life, shared an important life lesson, stating, “Behind every successful doctor stands the silent sacrifice of parents, teachers, mentors, and countless individuals whose contributions shape a life of excellence. Staying grounded and grateful is the true mark of greatness.”

Concluding his address, Shri Nadda urged graduates to uphold institutional values, saying, “A medical degree is not merely an academic achievement; it is a lifelong responsibility towards humanity. Carry forward the values of compassion, ethics, humility and excellence that institutions like PGIMER have upheld for decades.”

Earlier, Prof. Vivek Lal, Director, PGIMER, highlighted the institute’s achievements and national impact. Speaking on telemedicine, he stated, “Telemedicine, inaugurated by the Hon’ble Minister in 2016, has transformed healthcare accessibility, with PGIMER delivering over 40 lakh tele-consultations free of cost through eSanjeevani, reducing travel burden and improving specialist access for patients across the country.”

Apprising the gathering about PGIMER’s role in national service, the Director said, “During Operation Sindoor, PGIMER demonstrated its national responsibility through timely deployment of doctors and healthcare professionals, reaffirming that medical institutions are not only centres of healing but also pillars of national preparedness.”

Highlighting the impact of public welfare schemes, Prof. Lal stated, “Under Ayushman Bharat, nearly ₹650 crore has been utilized for patient care treating over 2.5 lakh patients till date, significantly reducing financial burden on families. Treatments costing ₹10–15 lakh elsewhere have become accessible at a fraction of the cost.”

On transplant excellence, he added, “PGIMER continues to lead the nation in transplant medicine, maintaining its position as number one in renal transplants while also emerging as a pioneering centre for simultaneous pancreatic and kidney transplantation.”

Emphasising academic outreach, the Director noted, “PGIMER remains the only institution in India transmitting all its academic sessions globally, connecting learners and alumni across countries including the United Kingdom and USA.”

Reiterating the institute’s patient-first philosophy, Prof. Lal said, “At PGIMER, the guiding principle remains simple yet profound—patient first, patient last. Every effort in research, academics, innovation, and clinical care is aligned towards patient welfare and strengthening trust in public healthcare.”

During the ceremony, degrees were conferred upon 61 PhD, 114 DM, 67 MCh, 323 MD, 103 MS, and 14 MDS graduates. The institute awarded 95 medals, including 18 Gold, 37 Silver, and 40 Bronze Medals.

Continuing PGIMER’s rich academic traditions, the convocation ceremony was marked by dignity and heritage, with graduating students adorned in traditional academic attire and ethnic wear, symbolising excellence, culture, and institutional pride.

The event was attended by distinguished dignitaries, professor emeritus, former directors, resident doctors, faculty members, department heads, key functionaries, and families of graduating students. The ceremony concluded with a formal vote of thanks proposed by Prof. R.K. Ratho, Dean (Academics).

The 39th Convocation concluded on a note of pride, inspiration, and optimism, reaffirming PGIMER’s enduring commitment to nation-building through excellence in healthcare, education, innovation, and service to humanity.

Mohali, April 29, 2026: Committed to safety, hygiene, purity of ingredients and healthy cooking mediums, Back To Source has unveiled a distinctive range of traditional Indian summer coolers and fermented probiotic beverages, to beat the scorching summer heat. The unique beverages were showcased at BTS’s Sector 66 outlet in Mohali’s Jubilee Junction.

Sharing details with the media, Puja Aggarwal, Founder Director, Back To Source and Operations Head Dhruv Ahluwalia, spotlighted the brand’s philosophy of clean, mindful eating rooted in natural and time-tested ingredients.

Puja Aggarwal said, “We have designed the beverages to counter the intense North Indian summer, the newly introduced drinks combine hydration, nutrition, and digestive benefits. The highlight offerings include the Gond Katira Almond Milk Cooler, Jowar Badam Milkshake, and Pineapple Tepache.”

Puja informed that the Gond Katira Almond Milk Cooler, is inspired by age-old Indian remedies, and uses soaked edible gum combined with fresh almond milk and natural sweeteners to deliver a cooling and nourishing experience. “Similarly, the Jowar Badam Milkshake blends millet-based milk with almonds to provide steady energy without heaviness, making it ideal for hot weather conditions. Pineapple Tepache, a lightly fermented beverage made using pineapple peels, adds a naturally fizzy and refreshing global touch to the unique summer cooler options,” added Puja.

While holding an informative session on the importance of gut-friendly and hydration-focused drinks in summers, Puja said, “Our focus has always been to go back to ingredients and practices that our bodies understand. With these summer coolers, we are reviving traditional wisdom like gond katira and millet-based drinks in a way that fits into today’s lifestyle. These beverages are not just refreshing but are designed to naturally cool the body, support hydration, and promote overall wellness during peak summers.”

Alongside beverages, Back To Source showcased a carefully curated summer menu featuring light, easily digestible, and nutrient-rich dishes. The offerings include fresh seasonal salads, barley salad, avocado chickpea salad, avocado toast, and lighter versions of popular items like pizza and kathi rolls. Chef-special additions such as kurkuri bhindi and faluda kulfi further enhance the seasonal appeal.

Speaking at the interaction, Dhruv Ahluwalia emphasized the importance of balance in summer dining. “We have consciously designed our menu to be gut-friendly and hydrating. From minimal oil usage to incorporating seasonal produce and natural ingredients, every dish is crafted to ensure it is light on the stomach while still being satisfying and flavorful. Our aim is to offer food that energizes rather than weighs you down,” he said.

Back To Source’s summer offerings also include refreshing beverages like Fresh Mango Mojito and Strawberry Mojito, complementing the newly launched drinks. However, the core focus remains on traditional and fermented beverages that deliver functional benefits such as improved digestion and enhanced hydration.

Highlighting the brand’s larger vision, Puja Aggarwal added, “At Back To Source, we believe food should be simple, real, and restorative. By bringing together traditional ingredients, fermentation techniques, and mindful preparation, we aim to restore trust in what we consume daily.”

The media interaction concluded with a tasting session, allowing attendees to experience the newly launched beverages and summer menu first-hand. The initiative reinforces Back To Source’s commitment to redefining everyday dining through a wellness-focused approach that blends tradition with contemporary preferences.