Chandigarh:

The General Secretary of All India Congress Committee, former Union Minister, and MP from Sirsa, Kumari Selja, has expressed concern over the serious flaws in the crop insurance scheme in the state and the injustice being done to farmers. Kumari Selja has demanded immediate intervention from the central and state governments. Kumari Selja said that the primary objective of the crop insurance scheme was to provide financial relief to farmers during natural disasters, but it has now become a means of profit for insurance companies. Strict action should be taken against officials involved in scams under the guise of insurance.

In a statement released to the media Kumari Selja said that thousands of farmers across various districts in the state have been struggling for years to get their crop insurance claims. However, they are not receiving any satisfactory response. Farmers are being forced to run from one office to another. The collusion between officials and insurance companies has become a cause of distress for farmers. Such officials should be identified and punished. When farmers insure their crops, the companies neither conduct timely surveys nor maintain transparency in assessing the damage. Many farmers are not even given any documentation regarding their claims, whereas in sectors like vehicle insurance, consumers are handed the full policy. This double standard is an injustice to farmers. It clearly shows that companies have always been profit-driven and have no concern for farmers’ interests.

Kumari Selja said that the insurance companies treat an entire village as a single unit while assessing damage. If a particular field suffers actual loss but the entire village is not declared as a damaged area, that farmer does not receive a claim. This system is anti-farmer and must be changed immediately. Kumari Selja said that in the era of climate change, disasters like floods, excessive rainfall, and hailstorms have become common. If a farmer’s crop is destroyed, they should receive compensation immediately so they can prepare for the next crop. However, under the current system, delays of 2 to 3 years are common, pushing farmers deeper into debt.Selja said that governments take responsibility only up to collecting premiums, but when it comes to disbursing claims, farmers are left at the mercy of insurance companies. This situation must be changed immediately. Kumari Selja further alleged that in the cotton-producing regions, a ₹300 crore insurance scam occurred during the determination of Kharif-23 cotton claims in Bhiwani and Charkhi Dadri due to the collusion between the agriculture department and CIC company officials. To date, neither have the guilty officials been punished, nor have the affected farmers received any compensation.

Kumari Selja has demanded from the government that farmers should be given individual insurance policies, just like in other insurance sectors. The insurance survey must be transparent, and assessment of damage should be done at the individual field level. The claim amount should be paid within a fixed timeframe, with a maximum of 60 days. Companies profiteering in the name of insurance should be closely monitored, and fines should be imposed for negligence. Kumari Selja said that the Congress Party will raise this issue of farmers’ pain at every level and continue the struggle to ensure that farmers receive their rights.

Chandigarh, July 12 – Haryana’s Energy, Transport and Labour Minister Sh. Anil Vij today strongly criticized Congress National President Mallikarjun Kharge, and said that “Kharge Ji does not trust his own country, its people or the Prime Minister—he has more trust in foreigners.” He added that “Kharge Ji may not trust us, but at least he should trust his dear Pakistan and what their Prime Minister/Deputy Prime Minister said—that Trump did not hold any talks or mediation to stop the India-Pakistan war.”

Sh. Vij made these remarks today while responding to questions asked by the media personnel regarding Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge’s statement that, “Modi Ji and the BJP lie so much. When the India-Pakistan war was ongoing, Donald Trump said that he stopped it, that he asked them to halt… Trump said this 16 times. Modi didn’t respond. Why? Because he didn’t have the courage to speak against Trump.”

The Energy Minister responded that “When the Prime Minister of India has clearly said there were no talks or mediation of any kind, and when the Deputy Prime Minister of Pakistan has also confirmed there were no talks, then at least Kharge Ji should believe the Pakistani Deputy PM, after all, Pakistan is close to his heart.”

*”During the present government’s tenure, all kinds of direct benefits go straight into beneficiaries’ accounts” – Vij*

In response to a question regarding Rahul Gandhi’s recent comment that “the sole aim of the crop insurance scheme is to steal farmers’ money and funnel it into the pockets of three or four billionaires by looting government funds,”on this,  Sh Vij hit back and said that “Rahul Gandhi Ji, this is not your late father Sh. Rajiv Gandhi Ji’s time, when one rupee sent from the top used to result in only 15 paise reaching the ground, and 85 paise was eaten up by your system. Today, every rupee reaches the beneficiary’s account—whether it’s from the Kisan Nidhi, a pension, or disability support. Today, all money goes directly into the accounts of beneficiaries, so how can it end up in anyone’s private coffers?”

*”Former Chief Minister Sh. Manohar Lal made considerable efforts to improve infrastructure in Gurugram” – Vij*

In response to a question about the recent heavy rainfall and waterlogging in Gurugram, which led to the death of nine to ten people, Sh. Vij said that “When Gurugram was first established, it was under opposition governments. Proper planning of drainage, sewers, and roads should be done before settling a city. But now, breaking and rebuilding an already settled city is extremely difficult. No government at that time paid attention to this. However, in the last 10 years, former Chief Minister Manohar Lal made significant efforts to improve Gurugram. But when the initial design and planning of the city were flawed, making major improvements becomes difficult. He added that he is deeply saddened by the deaths in Gurugram.

Chandigarh, July 10- As a result of the active participation of Bihar electors in the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) and tireless efforts of the election officers, the volunteers and 1.56-lakh proactive force of Booth Level Agents (BLAs) who have been appointed by all recognised political parties, has resulted in the collection of 57.48 percent enumeration forms in the first 15 days of the exercise with 16 more days left.

By 6.00 PM yesterday, 4,53,89,881 Enumeration Forms, which is 57.48 percent of the total of 7,89,69,844 (nearly 7.90 crore) existing electors in Bihar, have been collected in the last 15 days, since the issue of SIR instructions on June 24, 2025. In the last 24 hours i.e. from 6.00 PM yesterday, 83,12,804 Enumeration Forms have been collected, which amounts to 10.52 percent collected in a single day.

Maintaining the same momentum on the field, and with just about 42.5 percent forms remaining to be collected, the exercise of collecting the Enumeration Forms could be completed well before the stipulated date i.e. July 25, 2025.

Para 3(d) of SIR guidelines provide that the existing electors, which includes those who have temporarily migrated, in line with the section 20(1A) of the RP Act 1950, can download a pre-filled Enumeration Form from: https://voters.eci.gov.in. Existing electors, who have temporarily migrated can also print and sign the Enumeration Form and send it, before 25th July 2025, to their BLO, through their family members or through any online means (as per para 3(d) of SIR guidelines), including WhatsApp or similar applications, so that their names are included in the draft Electoral Rolls.

During this period of the past 15 days since the beginning of the SIR exercise, 7.90 crore forms were printed and nearly 98 percent forms (7.71 crore) have already been distributed to be electors.

Chandigarh, July 10 – In a significant step towards improving eye health and preventing avoidable blindness, Haryana Health and Family Welfare Minister Arti Singh Rao will launch the Ujjawal Drishti Haryana Abhiyan tomorrow. This state-wide initiative aims to provide free spectacles to school children and near vision correction to citizens aged 45 and above.

Under the campaign, over 1.4 lakh spectacles will be distributed simultaneously across 22 District Hospitals, 50 Sub-Divisional Hospitals, and 122 Community Health Centres – making it one of the largest and first-of-its-kind such drives in the country. The initiative is aligned with the National Programme for Control of Blindness and Visual Impairment (NPCBVI) and is being implemented with dedicated budget support from the state government.

The campaign will also screen approximately 21 lakh students in 14,267 government schools, with a target to provide 40,000 needy students with free spectacles. Additionally, citizens above 50 years of age will be screened for cataract, with provision for free surgeries through government and NGO hospitals.

Chandigarh, July 10 – Haryana Chief Minister Sh. Nayab Singh Saini visited the Divya Jyoti Jagriti Sansthan in Nur Mahal, Jalandhar and took part in the Guru Purnima event organised today. Union Minister of State for Railways Sh. Ravneet Singh Bittu accompanied the Chief Minister at the event.

On the occasion, the Chief Minister bowed to the portrait of Sh. Ashutosh Ji Maharaj of Divya Jyoti Jagriti Sansthan and took his blessings. He expressed his heartfelt greetings to all devotees.

Speaking on the occasion, the CM said this sacred day gives us an opportunity to express gratitude to the great Gurus who, by bestowing the light of knowledge, taught us the right way to live.

The Chief Minister also visited the Kamdhenu Gaushala located in the premises of the Sansthan, took part in Gau Poojan and also performed Gau Seva.

The Chief Minister also visited Baba Mohan Dass Ashram in Jalandhar and paid his respects to Baba Mohan Dass ji Maharaj. He said It is a matter of great happiness that today we are all gathered here to celebrate Guru Purnima. I have been associated with Guru ji for a long time and have been taking his blessings every year, he said.

The CM said today, we also have to take a pledge and this pledge is that we all must plant a tree under Ek Ped Maa ke Naam campaign. The environment around us is getting polluted, and we are increasingly getting dependent on Air Conditioners. So, it is important that we must plant trees as per the teachings of our Gurus and Saints. This will will also help us to deal with climate change. On the occasion of Guru Purnima, we also have to take a pledge that we all follow the path shown by our Gurus and Saints, the CM added.

Later, the Chief Minister also visited Dera Sachkhand Ballan in Jalandhar and paid obeisance there.

The CM was warmly welcomed by the spiritual heads and the management of the Dera.

During the visit, the Chief Minister took blessings and expressed his reverence for the teachings of Guru Ravidass Ji, whose message of equality, peace, and social harmony continues to inspire generations.

He also appreciated the Dera’s contributions towards community welfare, education, and healthcare.

The Chief Minister emphasized the importance of preserving spiritual heritage and promoting social unity.

He assured the support of the government in all constructive efforts being made by such revered institutions.

Meanwhile, on the way to Jalandhar, the Chief Minister stopped his cavalcade and interacted with a local shopkeeper and other residents in Jamsher village.

He stepped out of his vehicle, greeted the villagers warmly, and enquired about their well-being and local issues. The residents shared their concerns and expressed happiness over the Chief Minister’s surprise interaction.

Senior BJP leaders and other dignitaries accompanied the Chief Minister on the occasion.

Chandigarh, July 10 – Haryana Cooperation, Heritage, and Tourism Minister, Dr. Arvind Sharma said that the state government, under the leadership of Chief Minister, Sh. Nayab Singh Saini, is committed to the equal development of every section of society and every region.

The Minister was speaking during the monthly meeting of the District Public Relations and Grievance Committee in Narnaul. Twelve public issues were discussed during the meeting.

During the meeting, on behalf of poet Sh. Surender Sharma, Lata Sharma raised concerns about tampering of revenue records. In response, The Minister directed to form an inquiry committee, consisting of the Additional Deputy Commissioner, SDM Narnaul, District Revenue Officer, and two Members of Public Grievances Committee.

One of the key issues raised was the drinking water problem in Nasibpur and Nuni Awal. In response to a complaint by Sanjay Kumar, officers informed that a project worth approximately Rs. 148 crore is being planned under the AMRUT 2.0 scheme to provide a permanent solution to the issue. Both villages have recently become part of the municipal council. Meanwhile, the Minister directed that water tankers be sent to these areas as a temporary measure.

While interacting with the mediapersons after the meeting, Dr. Sharma said that under the guidance of Prime Minister, Sh. Narendra Modi, Chief Minister, Sh. Nayab Singh Saini is working tirelessly for the holistic development of Haryana. The government is focused on service and good governance.

While responding to the question regarding jail safety, the Minister said that all jails in Haryana are now equipped with modern security systems.

Deputy Commissioner, Dr. Vivek Bharti and other dignitaries also remained present.

Chandigarh, July 10:

Terming plantation of different varieties of the saplings as the deciding factor in maintaining ecological balance, the Forest and Wildlife Preservation Minister Lal Chand Kataruchak also called it the primary driving force behind the all out efforts of the State Government to expand forest cover.

While undertaking a whirlwind tour of the Nurseries at Ballowal Saunkhri and Village Fatehpur (Forest Range Kathgarh) in Shaheed Bhagat Singh Nagar District, the Minister was apprised about the varied forms of saplings planted at both the nurseries as well as the efforts being made by the department to ensure their proper upkeep and the maintenance.

During his tour of the Ballowal Saunkhri nursery, Mr. Kataruchak was briefed about the distinctive varieties such as Khair, Sheesham, Falahi, Baans, Dekk, Holoptilia, Dheu trees which are found here and are cynosure of all the eyes lending a magical aura to the environment.

At Fatehpur Nursery, it was brought to the notice of the Minister that saplings of different varieties such as Peepal, Bahera, Bohar, Jacaranda, Mehndi, Neem, Pilkhan, Arjun, Hibiscus have been planted here. The Minister also planted a sapling of Peepal at the nursery and lauded the staff for their good work. He also encouraged the staff engaged in plantation work by giving them monetary rewards.

The Minister on the occasion said that the environment has also been accorded great significance in the sacred Gurbani. Hence, it is the combined duty of us all to do everything within our reach to ensure a clean and Green environment.

The Minister was also accompanied by the PCCF (HoFF) Dharminder Sharma, Chief Conservator of Forests (Hills) Nidhi Srivastava and Divisional Forest Officer (Shaheed Bhagat Singh Nagar) Harbhajan Singh.

Chandigarh, July 10 :

 Power Minister Punjab Harbhajan Singh ETO today administered the oath of office to Er. Ravinder Singh Saini, who has been appointed by the Punjab Government as a Member of the Punjab State Electricity Regulatory Commission (PSERC) In a dignified ceremony held at Punjab Bhavan.

While briefing the media after the oath taking ceremony Power Minister Harbhajan Singh ETO said that Er. Saini brings with him a wealth of experience and deep understanding of Punjab’s power sector, which will significantly strengthen the functioning of PSERC. He expressed confidence that with this appointment, the Commission now at full strengthwill be better equipped to ensure fair regulations, promote transparency, and safeguard the interests of consumers, utilities, and stakeholders. “Saini’s contribution to the power sector has been exemplary, and his inclusion in the Commission will certainly enhance its regulatory efficiency,” the Minister remarked.

Powe Minister further stated that the appointment reflects the Punjab Government’s commitment, under the dynamic leadership of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, to empowering institutions and ensuring efficient governance in the power sector. With Saini’s vast technical knowledge and hands-on experience, the PSERC is expected to take more timely, consumer-centric decisions, aligning with the government’s vision of providing reliable and affordable electricity to the people of Punjab.

Adding, Harbhajan Singh ETO said with this appointment, the PSERC now has its full sanctioned strength of three members: Chairperson Viswajeet Khanna (Retd. IAS), Member Paramjeet Singh, and Member Er. Ravinder Singh Saini. The second member position had been lying vacant for some time, and Saini’s joining is expected to expedite regulatory processes and pending matters.

Er. Saini was appointed Director/Commercial, PSPCL in February 2023 and relinquished the charge in February 2025.

Sh. Ajoy Kumar Sinha IAS Principal Secretary Power, Er.Harjit Singh Director Generation, Er. Hira Lal Goyal Director Commercial, Er.Sanjeev Sood Director Technical PSTCL,Sh. S k Beri Director Finance and Sh. Vinod Kumar Bansal Director Finance PSTCL, Director Admin S.Jasbir Singh Sur Singh was present on the occasion.

Chandigarh, July 10:

In a significant move to harness the state’s natural energy potential, the Punjab Government is all set to install solar power plants with a combined capacity of 30 MW on the roofs of 390 government buildings across Punjab by March 2026, informed Mr. Aman Arora, Minister of New & Renewable Energy Sources, Punjab.

Mr. Aman Arora, along with Chairperson PEDA Dr. Sukhchain Gogi and Principal Secretary New & Renewable Energy Mr. Ajoy Kumar Sinha, reviewed ongoing projects being executed by the Punjab Energy Development Authority (PEDA).

Sharing the details, Mr. Aman Arora informed that the project worth Rs 150 crore is projected to yield annual savings of Rs 15 crore in electricity costs for various government departments. The tendering process has been completed, paving the way for implementation of the ambitious project, he added.

Notably, the project will cover prominent buildings of 25 major departments, including Health & Family Welfare, Technical Education & Industrial Training, Transport, Agriculture & Farmers Welfare, Tourism & Cultural Affairs, Home Affairs & Justice, Medical Education & Research, Local Government and Water Resources, among others.

The Minister noted that Punjab has already registered impressive progress in renewable energy in past three years, with 1098 government buildings equipped with solar rooftops with collective capacity of 7.7MW, which demonstrates the state government’s commitment to a sustainable energy future.

Reaffirming the Chief Minister S. Bhagwant Singh Mann led Punjab Government’s unwavering commitment to sustainability, environmental stewardship and fiscal prudence, Mr. Aman Arora stated, “By harnessing renewable energy, the state aims to reduce its carbon footprint, mitigate climate change impacts and ensure a more sustainable future for its citizens. This initiative marks a substantial stride towards transforming Punjab into a cleaner, greener and more energy-efficient state.”

During the meeting, Mr. Aman Arora directed the department officials to explore ways and means to further increase the production of clean energy.

Chief Administrative Officer (CEO) PEDA Ms. Neelima, Director Mr. MP Singh and other senior officials were also present in the meeting.

Chandigarh, July 10 :

The Punjab Cabinet, led by Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, on Thursday approved the Mukh Mantri Sehat Yojna — a first-of-its-kind scheme in the country to provide cashless medical treatment worth Rs 10 lakh to residents of the state.

A decision to this effect was taken during a meeting of the Council of Ministers held under the chairmanship of the Chief Minister at his official residence.

Disclosing this today, a spokesperson from the Chief Minister’s Office said the scheme will be rolled out on October 2, providing significant relief to the people of Punjab. Under the Mukh Mantri Sehat Yojna, every family in the state will now be eligible for cashless treatment of up to ₹10 lakh. With this, Punjab has become the first state in India where every household is entitled to such comprehensive healthcare coverage.

The scheme will benefit the entire population of three crore residents and more than 550 private hospitals have been empaneled for the scheme so far and the number will be enhanced to 1000 in coming days. Previously, a family could avail of treatment only up to ₹5 lakh; this limit has now been enhanced to ₹10 lakh. By launching this initiative, Punjab has set a new benchmark for the rest of the country, becoming the first state to offer free healthcare, education, electricity, and bus travel to its citizens.

Following the principle of Sarbat da Bhala (welfare of all), as advocated by the great Gurus, the Punjab Government is taking inclusive steps to ensure the well-being of every section of society. Under this scheme, every citizen of Punjab — including government employees and pensioners — will be entitled to free healthcare, regardless of income level. Previously, only select families qualified for benefits under income-based criteria, but now the scheme covers all residents.

Health cards under the scheme will be issued at Seva Kendras or Common Service Centers (CSCs). Additionally, citizens can register online using their Aadhaar card or Voter ID to obtain a health card. Treatment under the scheme will be available at all government hospitals and empanelled private hospitals and no resident of Punjab will now have to forgo medical treatment due to financial constraints.

*Big relief to investors*

In view of difficulties faced by investors, the Cabinet has decided to implement the notification to collect CLU, EDC, LF and others from the projects developed under the popular act or mega project policy w.e.f. June 4,2025. In Punjab, these charges were implemented wide notification dated 04.06.2025, on all new real estate projects to be set up in the State and on new extensions to ongoing projects with effect from April 1, 2025. However, now the Cabinet has decided to implement this notification w.e.f. 04.06.2025 thereby stipulating that project submitted up to 04.06.2025 will be charged as per the previous policy and applications submitted after 04.06.2025 will be charged under the new rates which will be effective from 04.06.2025.