Chandigarh,

Haryana Pradesh Congress Committee President Rao Narendra Singh has strongly condemned the state government’s decision to determine eligibility for old-age pension on the basis of children’s income. He termed it a completely insensitive, anti-people and anti-elderly policy that strikes at the dignity of senior citizens.
Rao Narendra Singh said,
“Old-age pension is not a government’s charity, but a constitutional and moral right of the elderly. This scheme was introduced to ensure respect and a life of dignity for senior citizens. Today, the government is trying to stop or reduce parents’ pension on the basis of their children’s income—this is not only inhuman, but also a symbol of social injustice, erosion of family values, and an insult to the elderly.”
He further said that in the present times, considering an annual income of ₹3–4 lakh as a sign of prosperity is laughable. When inflation is soaring, medical expenses are burdensome, and it has become difficult to meet basic household needs, depriving even such families of pension exposes the government’s anti-people mindset.
The Pradesh Congress President alleged that the government is deliberately implementing such harsh, impractical and arbitrary criteria so that thousands and lakhs of elderly people can be deprived of this right. This policy, instead of making senior citizens self-reliant, forces them to depend on their children, whereas the reality is that many elderly people live alone, their children live far away, or family support is unavailable.
Rao Narendra Singh has demanded that the Haryana government immediately withdraw this anti-people condition and ensure old-age pension for all eligible senior citizens without any discrimination, so that their dignity and rights are protected.
He clearly warned that if the government does not roll back this decision, the Haryana Congress will launch an agitation at every level—from the streets to the Assembly—to protect the respect, dignity and rights of the elderly. The party will stand shoulder to shoulder with senior citizens in this fight.

Chandigarh, February 10 – Haryana Chief Minister Sh. Nayab Singh Saini chaired a high-level review meeting of budget expenditure of various departments and the progress of key departmental schemes here today. Senior administrative officials of concerned departments were present in the meeting.

Reviewing the schemes of the Energy (Power) Department, the Chief Minister directed the officials to accelerate the solarisation of agriculture pumps across the state. He emphasized that the PM-KUSUM scheme must be implemented in a time-bound manner so that maximum number of farmers can benefit from it. He stated that surplus power generated through solar pumps should be fed back into the government grid, ensuring its optimum and judicious utilization for public welfare. He also instructed the officials to expedite the installation of rooftop solar systems on all government buildings in the state. He directed that rooftop solar panels should also be installed at bus stands, HAFED godowns and other government-owned infrastructure. The Chief Minister highlighted that Prime Minister Sh. Narendra Modi has laid special emphasis on expanding renewable energy production through rooftop solar under the PM Suryaghar Muft Bijli Yojana.

During the meeting, officials informed that surveys of 5,000 government buildings have already been completed and the process of installing rooftop solar panels is underway. The Chief Minister directed that Deputy Commissioners of all districts shall actively monitor and fast-track the implementation of this scheme.

While reviewing the Transport Department schemes, the Chief Minister directed officials to identify bus stands that are in poor condition and ensure their timely repair and maintenance. He was informed that the bus stands at Kanina, Barwala, Tohana and Nigdhu are nearing completion, while work is in progress at Badli, Nilokheri, Bahal and other locations. The Chief Minister further stressed the need to expand electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure across the state and increase the number of electric buses to promote eco-friendly public transportation and reduce carbon emissions.

Reviewing the schemes of the Industries Department, the Chief Minister directed officials to provide greater incentives to small industries and MSMEs. He emphasized the need to frame policies that encourage entrepreneurship, particularly among women and economically weaker sections of society, to promote inclusive economic growth.

While discussing the Environment, Forests and Wildlife Department, the Chief Minister directed officials to take strict action against illegal felling of Khair trees. He instructed the department to take proactive measures to prevent deforestation, increase green cover and ensure proper marking of trees across the state. He also emphasized the need for focused conservation efforts in the Aravalli region.

During the review of the Foreign Cooperation Department, the Chief Minister directed officials to establish stronger direct engagement with the NRI diaspora and extend necessary support wherever required. He added that the department is also working on programmes to teach foreign languages to students aspiring to study or work abroad.

Reviewing the functioning of the Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare Department, the Chief Minister described farmers as the backbone of Haryana’s economy and reiterated the government’s commitment to enhancing their productivity and income. He directed that more ‘Har Hith Stores’ be opened and handed over to CM PACS and Self-Help Groups (SHGs) to empower women and economically weaker sections by creating sustainable livelihood opportunities.

The Chief Minister further stated that pulse production should be encouraged in the state and directed the department to formulate a special policy to incentivize farmers cultivating pulses. He emphasized that Haryana should strive towards ‘Aatmanirbharta’ in pulse production in line with the vision of Prime Minister Sh. Narendra Modi. He also called for greater promotion of organic farming and directed officials to design a dedicated scheme to support and encourage farmers to adopt organic agricultural practices.

During the meeting, the Chief Minister also reviewed the Budget expenditure and scheme progress of Sainik & Ardh Sainik Welfare, Fisheries, Sports, and other key departments.

Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare Minister Sh. Shyam Singh Rana, Industries and Commerce Minister Rao Narbir Singh, Chief Principal Secretary to CM Sh. Rajesh Khullar, Principal Secretary to Chief Minister, Sh. Arun Kumar Gupta, Additional Principal Secretary to CM, Dr. Saket Kumar, Additional Chief Secretary, Environment, Forests & Wildlife, Sh. Sudhir Rajpal, Additional Chief Secretary, Transport. Sh. Raja Sekhar Vundru, Commissioner  & Secretary, Finance, Mohammed Shayin and other senior officers were present in the meeting.

Chandigarh:

In a constructive step towards addressing the concerns of traders and street vendors, the Municipal Corporation Chandigarh today reviewed issues related to vending in Sector 22 Market through a detailed interaction with key stakeholders.

MC Joint Commissioner Dr. Himanshu Gupta held an extensive meeting with representatives of the Market Welfare Association and street vendors to gain first-hand insight into their genuine concerns and operational challenges. The meeting was also attended by the Enforcement  Superintendent, Market Welfare Association President Sh. Parveen Duggal, concerned Inspectors, MC Health Supervisor, and the area Chief Sanitary Inspector to ensure a comprehensive and practical assessment of on-ground issues.

During the interaction, vendors and association members put forth their difficulties and suggestions, which were heard patiently and with due seriousness. Dr. Gupta assured all participants that the genuine issues raised by both the Market Welfare Association and vendors would be addressed in a balanced and fair manner, keeping the interests of all stakeholders in view.

To strengthen vigilance and improve overall market management, it was decided during the meeting that CCTV cameras will be installed in the Sector 22 Market. The step aims to enhance monitoring, ensure better compliance, and maintain a safe and orderly market environment for traders, vendors, and visitors alike.

Emphasising the importance of orderly and regulated vending, the Joint Commissioner advised vendors to operate strictly in accordance with the Street Vendors (Protection of Livelihood and Regulation of Street Vending) guidelines. He further informed that all matters discussed during the meeting would be placed before the upcoming Town Vending Committee (TVC) meeting for detailed deliberation and final decision.

The interaction reinforced the Municipal Corporation’s commitment to inclusive governance, dialogue-based solutions, and the creation of a harmonious market ecosystem that safeguards livelihoods while ensuring civic discipline.

Chandigarh, February 10 – Haryana Chief Minister Sh. Nayab Singh Saini announced that the grant given as an incentive to outstanding Panchayats working for the welfare of Scheduled Castes will be increased from ₹50,000 to ₹1 lakh. He also announced the establishment of an Investigation Wing in every police station.

Chief Minister Sh. Nayab Singh Saini was chairing the meeting of the State-Level Vigilance and Monitoring Committee to review the implementation of the provisions of the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, 1989 and the Protection of Civil Rights Act, 1955 in Chandigarh. Development and Panchayat Minister Sh. Krishan Lal Panwar and Social Justice and Empowerment Minister Sh. Krishan Kumar Bedi were also present in the meeting.

The Chief Minister said that the criteria for selecting outstanding Panchayats include ensuring that no atrocities are committed against SCs, full utilization of SC Component funds, conducting campaigns against drug abuse in villages, preventing stubble burning, resolving drinking water problems, among others. For this, provision has been made for Panchayat incentives at the state, district, and sub-division levels.

The Chief Minister said that in SC/ST cases, charge sheets should be filed in court within 60 days so that such cases can be disposed of expeditiously. He said that under the three new criminal laws implemented by the government, there is also a provision to file charge sheets within 60 days. Separate investigating officers should also be appointed for these cases.

Sh. Nayab Singh Saini said that since 2021, crimes against women, apart from Scheduled Castes, have declined in the state. In addition, there has also been a decrease in cases of robbery, property-related crimes, and threats. He said that atrocities or harassment against Scheduled Castes will not be tolerated at any level. Immediate action should be taken in such cases. At the same time, if anyone files a false complaint, action should also be taken against them. In cases of mutual compromise, it should be examined whether the settlement was made under pressure or inducement.

The Chief Minister said that eminent citizens should be included in meetings held at district and sub-division levels. In addition, in every district, the Deputy Commissioner must conduct at least four District Vigilance and Monitoring Committee meetings within a year to review the SC Act. He informed that during 2025-26, financial assistance amounting to ₹8.84 crore was provided for relief and rehabilitation to 796 victims of atrocities.

The Chief Minister said that under the Social Harmony Inter-Caste Marriage Shagun Scheme, financial assistance of ₹31.62 crore was provided to 1,265 beneficiaries during the current financial year, including 807 women and 458 men. This is a commendable step towards social harmony. Apart from this, speech, essay competitions, debates, and seminars on prevention of atrocities are being organized in schools and colleges.

The meeting was attended by the Chief Minister’s Chief Principal Secretary Sh. Rajesh Khullar, Additional Chief Secretary Sh. Sudhir Rajpal,  Smt. G. Anupama, Principal Secretary to the Chief Minister Sh. Arun Gupta, Additional Principal Secretary Dr. Saket Kumar, DGP Sh. Ajay Singhal  along with other members.

Chandigarh, February 10 –  In a significant push to direct benefit transfer–driven welfare, the Haryana Chief Minister, Sh. Nayab Singh Saini on Tuesday disbursed Rs. 1,431 crore to over 56.34 lakh beneficiaries under 18 public welfare schemes,  once again marking one of the largest single-day benefit releases by the state in recent months. The disbursement was done during a press conference addressed by the Chief Minister.

The disbursement included the fourth installment of the Deen Dayal Lado Lakshmi Yojana, social security pensions, cooking gas subsidies under the Har Ghar–Har Grihini Yojana, and incentives for milk producers, underscoring the government’s emphasis on targeted support for women, the elderly, the vulnerable and small producers.

Co-operation Minister, Dr. Arvind Sharma, Agriculture & Farmers Welfare Minister, Sh. Shyam Singh Rana, Social Justice & Empowerment Minister, Sh. Krishan Kumar Bedi remained present on this occasion.

Major push for women-centric schemes

The Chief Minister said that under the Deen Dayal Lado Lakshmi Yojana, an amount of Rs. 193 crore was transferred directly into the bank accounts of 9,22,452 women beneficiaries, taking the cumulative release under the scheme to Rs. 634 crore across four installments. The scheme provides monthly financial assistance of Rs. 2,100 to eligible women aged 23 years and above from families with an annual income of less than Rs. 1 lakh, with expanded eligibility for certain categories of families earning up to Rs. 1.80 lakh annually.

He said that 10,51,029 women applied through the Deen Dayal Lado Lakshmi mobile application, launched on September 25, 2025, to mark the 109th birth anniversary of Pandit Deen Dayal Upadhyaya. Of these, over 9,22,452 applicants were found eligible after scrutiny.

He said that from February 2026 onwards, Rs. 1,100 will be credited directly to beneficiaries’ savings accounts each month, while Rs. 1,000 will be placed in a government-operated fixed deposit account. A notable feature of the scheme is that all eligible women within a family can avail its benefits.

Social security pensions and grievance redress

The Chief Minister said that on the same day, the state released Rs. 1,098 crore towards old-age, widow, differently-abled and other social security pensions, benefiting 34.14 lakh people.

Acknowledging complaints related to pension delays and income-based eligibility, the government has directed Additional Deputy Commissioners (ADCs) in all districts to conduct dedicated grievance redress hearings twice a week i.e every Monday and Thursday to ensure timely and impartial resolution.

Gas subsidy and support to milk producers

The Chief Minister said that under the Har Ghar–Har Grihini Yojana, an amount of Rs. 38.97 crore was credited as subsidy for November and December to 12.62 lakh women who refilled LPG cylinders. The scheme enables eligible women to obtain a gas cylinder every month at a subsidized rate of Rs. 500. Earlier, on January 17, subsidies amounting to Rs. 18.56 crore were released to 6,08,842 beneficiaries. Cumulatively, Rs. 223.31 crore has been transferred to 14.38 lakh women under the scheme so far.

Additionally, Rs. 101 crore was released to 36,000 beneficiaries under the Mukhya Mantri Dugdh Utpadak Protsahan Yojana (MMDUPY), aimed at strengthening the rural dairy economy and providing assured income support to small milk producers.

Direct transfers as governance tool

The Chief Minister said the scale and breadth of the disbursement reflected the state’s reliance on direct benefit transfers to improve efficiency, reduce leakages and ensure that welfare support reaches intended beneficiaries without intermediaries. With over Rs. 1,431 crore credited in a single day, the government signaled its intent to sustain high-volume, technology-enabled welfare delivery as a core governance strategy.

Chief Principal Secretary to Chief Minister, Sh. Rajesh Khullar, Additional Chief Secretary, Food, Civil Supplies and Consumer Affairs Department, Sh. Raja Sekhar Vundru, Additional Chief Secretary, Social Justice, Empowerment, Welfare of Scheduled Castes & Backward Classes and Antyodaya (SEWA) Department, Smt. G. Anupama, Principal Secretary to Chief Minister, Sh. Arun Kumar Gupta, Additional Chief Secretary, Cooperation Department, Sh. Vijayendra Kumar, Media Secretary to Chief Minister, Sh. Praveen Attrey also remained present on this occasion.

CHANDIGARH, February 10

Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann on Tuesday appealed to the people of Punjab not to be misled by  misleading and malicious propaganda being spread by anti-Punjab forces regarding the Mukh Mantri Sehat Yojna, the flagship healthcare programme of the state government.

In a video message addressed to the people, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “The Punjab government launched this ambitious scheme to ensure that every resident of Punjab, especially those from the weaker sections of society, has direct access to quality medical treatment.”

Explaining the scope of the initiative, Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “To provide comprehensive healthcare to the people, the state government has introduced the Mukh Mantri Sehat Yojna, a first-of-its-kind scheme in the country, under which every resident family in Punjab is entitled to cashless medical treatment of up to Rs 10 lakh.”

Calling it a landmark achievement, the Chief Minister said, “It is a matter of immense pride and satisfaction that Punjab has become the first Indian state to offer such extensive healthcare coverage. This scheme will significantly reduce the financial burden on the public while ensuring access to quality health services.”

Highlighting universal eligibility, Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “This historic step aims to provide universal healthcare to all families in the state. All government employees, pensioners, and every other citizen are eligible for the health card, which can be obtained from facilitation centres and Common Service Centres, or through online registration using Aadhaar card or voter card.”

Referring to the public response, he said, “The scheme has received an overwhelming response from the people of Punjab, who are coming forward in large numbers to avail its benefits. This initiative has provided major relief to families who otherwise would have had to spend huge amounts from their own pockets for treatment in case of illness.”

However, the Chief Minister cautioned against misinformation, saying, “Some anti-Punjab forces, who do not want the people of the state to benefit from such facilities, are deliberately spreading falsehoods about this ambitious scheme.”

He added, “These misnomers are intended to discourage people from availing the benefits of the scheme, which is completely unwarranted and undesirable.”

Clarifying the hospital empanelment process, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “The state government has empanelled a majority of private hospitals under the scheme. Rates have been fixed by the government for around 2,600 ailments and treatments.”

Explaining the payment mechanism, he said, “The government will pay hospitals as per the mutually agreed rates, regardless of the fact that these hospitals may charge higher amounts from private individuals.”

Emphasising accountability, the Chief Minister said, “Hospitals are duty-bound to provide treatment at the rates fixed by the government, and they must ensure that treatment is given free of cost to the beneficiaries.”

Rejecting misinformation outright, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “Hospitals will be paid directly by the government, and not even a single penny will be charged from the beneficiaries, despite attempts by forces inimical to the state to paint a different picture.”

Reiterating the core assurance of the scheme, the Chief Minister said unequivocally, “Treatment under the Mukh Mantri Sehat Yojna will be completely free of cost, and no fees will be charged from patients by the hospitals.”

Appealing for vigilance, he said, “People of Punjab must remain alert to such forces that are hell-bent on harming public interest by spreading baseless rumours. I urge everyone not to get swayed by such canards.”

Detailing the safeguards in place, Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “The state government has put in place a foolproof mechanism under which the entire treatment process, from hospital admission to diagnosis, treatment, and discharge, is entirely free of cost.”

Issuing a clear warning to erring hospitals, the Chief Minister said, “If any hospital demands money from a patient under this scheme, a complaint should be lodged with the state government immediately.”

Assuring strict action, he added, “The government will take strict, punitive, and exemplary action against any hospital found indulging in such malpractices.”

Concluding his appeal, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “I urge the people of Punjab to take maximum benefit of this scheme, which has already earned accolades from across the globe.”

Chandigarh:The Sirsa MP, former Union Minister and Congress National General Secretary Kumari Selja said that the financial condition of both the country and the state of Haryana has become deeply concerning due to rising debt and shrinking fiscal responsibility. Citing official data presented in Parliament, she said that as of March 31, 2014, the outstanding debt of the Central government stood at Rs 58.6 lakh crore, which has surged to ₹185.95 lakh crore in 2024–25. In just a decade, more than ₹127 lakh crore in additional debt has been added, she noted. Kumari Selja said this steep rise is not routine but raises serious questions about the country’s fiscal health. The government makes tall claims of development, but the reality is that the nation is being pushed under an ever-growing debt burden. She said that whenever questions are raised, the government responds by saying that the debt-to-GDP ratio remains under control.

Kumari Selja said If massive borrowing alone is a measure of a strong economy, then even a loss-making company could be termed successful. Kumari Selja said not only the Centre, but Haryana’s financial position is also worrisome. Old-age pensions are reportedly being curtailed, schemes like ‘Lado Lakshmi’ are being diluted, and farmers are not receiving compensation on time. This, she said, indicates a shortage of adequate resources to sustain public welfare schemes. Targeting the BJP’s “double engine government” slogan, she said the reality appears to be a “double debt government,” where governance is being run on borrowings rather than genuine development.

Kumari Selja concluded that while slogans and advertisements may create temporary illusions, official figures speak the truth. The people of India and Haryana, she asserted, will hold the government accountable for this financial mismanagement in due course.

Chandigarh, February 9

Haryana Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare Minister, Sh. Shyam Singh Rana, visited several villages of the Radaur assembly constituency, including Gumthala, Sandhala, Naharpur, Kamalpur, Beech Ka Majra, Karera-2, Kansepur, Farakpur, Ishopur, Mandauli and Damla. The visit was held under the Central Budget outreach, Viksit Bharat G- RAM-G Campaign and Kisan Chaupal programme. During his visit, he discussed the recently presented Union Budget and listened to the people’s problems.

The Minister said that the Union Budget has made provisions of lakhs of crores of rupees to strengthen and improve the agricultural system. He added that the budget takes into account the interests of every section of society and will give new momentum to the country’s development. The funds allocated for agriculture will help ensure better prices for crops, provide subsidies on farm machinery and introduce new farmer-friendly schemes. Both the Central and State governments aim to promote natural farming.

He further said that the MGNREGA scheme has been linked with the Viksit Bharat campaign and expanded under the Viksit Bharat G RAM G initiative. Earlier, 100 days of employment were provided under MGNREGA, which will now be increased to 125 days.

Sh. Rana said that India is a democratic country with a strong foreign policy, its functioning is governed by the constitution. In contrast, he said that Pakistan’s system is heavily influenced by the military. US President Donald Trump gave more importance to India’s foreign policy and extended friendship towards India after observing Prime Minister, Sh. Narendra Modi’s leadership and vision. Everyone’s participation is necessary to make India a developed nation by 2047, he added.

The Minister said that the BJP is a well-organised party and organised parties move forward on the path of development. He added that the party’s national leadership motivates youth to move ahead and brings new energy to the organisation. He also said that spiritual peace comes from the company of saints and that the state government has taken a historic decision to celebrate the birth anniversaries of saints from all communities. He said that the country is in safe hands under the leadership of Prime Minister, Sh. Narendra Modi.

He further said that the highest number of Ambedkar Bhawans have been constructed in the Radaur constituency and the work of paving farm roads also began from this area. The government is providing subsidies for the purchase of indigenous cows to promote animal husbandry. Under the leadership of the Chief Minister, Sh. Nayab Singh Saini, development works are being carried out rapidly across the state. During the visit, he listened to the grievances of villagers and assured their early resolution.

Chandigarh, 9 February 2026:

The Punjab Vigilance Bureau (VB), during its ongoing crusade against corruption in the state, has been able to apprehend 10 government officials and one private person red handed while accepting bribes in 8 different trap cases during the month of January.

Disclosing this here today, an official spokesperson of the state VB said the VB has put up its best efforts to eradicate corruption amongst public servants and others in every sphere during the period.

He informed that the Bureau had submitted challans pertaining to 24 vigilance cases in various competent courts in the last month. Apart from this, 4 vigilance enquiries have also been registered to thoroughly probe the corruption cases. He added that 12 criminal cases were also registered against 16 accused which include 11 government employees.

Giving more details, he added that different competent courts had decided seven bribery cases filed and contested by the Bureau during the last month, in which eleven persons were convicted and sentenced to 4-4 years imprisonment and fine ranging from Rs. 10,000 to 50,000.

Chandigarh, February 9:

Under the leadership of Chief Minister S. Bhagwant Singh Mann, the Punjab Government is working tirelessly for the welfare of all sections of society. Along with this, special efforts are being made to safeguard the rights of the Scheduled Caste (SC) and Backward Class (BC) communities and to ensure their social and economic upliftment. This was stated by Cabinet Minister for Social Justice, Empowerment and Minorities, Dr. Baljit Kaur.

A meeting was held at Punjab Bhawan between Cabinet Minister Dr. Baljit Kaur and representatives of the SC/BC Union. During the meeting, the Minister listened carefully to the demands raised by the Union representatives and assured them that all genuine demands would be addressed on priority.

The Minister clarified that issues which can be resolved at the departmental level will be addressed promptly in a time-bound manner. She further stated that matters requiring decisions at the government level will be taken up with the government at the earliest to ensure appropriate resolution.

Dr. Baljit Kaur said that to realise Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann’s vision of a “Rangla Punjab,” it is essential that every section of society becomes an integral part of the development process. She emphasised that the dream of a vibrant Punjab cannot be fulfilled without ensuring dignity, equal opportunities and justice for the SC and BC communities. “A truly Rangla Punjab will emerge only when there is prosperity in every household, confidence in every mind and equal opportunities for every section of society,” she said.

She reiterated that the Punjab Government is fully committed to the welfare of marginalised and backward sections and is continuously taking concrete and effective steps in this direction. The meeting concluded in a well-organised and positive atmospher.

On the occasion, the meeting was attended by the Principal Secretary, Department of Social Justice, Empowerment and Minorities, Mr. V.K. Meena IAS, the Director of the Department, Mrs. Vimmi Bhullar, IAS and other senior officers of the department.