Chandigarh, September 19, 2026: Ather Energy, one of India’s leading electric two-wheeler manufacturers, today announced the launch of its new electric scooter, Konarc™️, in Chandigarh, to take EV scooters mainstream in the country. Built on Ather’s new EL platform, Konarc has been engineered to offer a refined everyday riding experience, combining comfort, range, durability and ease of ownership.

Konarc is available across the S and Z product lines, with six variants offering IDC range options of up to 200 km. The Konarc will have a service interval to 10,000 km, which translates to approximately once a year for most riders, whichever is earlier. All Konarc variants are equipped with Ather’s fifth-generation BedrockTM battery, backed by a new 10-year/1,00,000 km,whichever is earlier, warranty with a minimum 70% state of health guaranteed at the end of the coverage period. The scooter combines Ather’s technology-led approach with features designed around everyday riding, including the new Advanced Electronic Braking System (AeBSTM), MagicKey, AutoPop and AirWalkTM.

Punjab continues to be an important market for Ather, with the company improving its market share from 7.9% in Q1 FY26 to 10.8% in Q1 FY27 recording 82% year-on-year growth (as per Vahan) and selling 1011 units (as per Vahan) during Q1 FY27. Ather currently has 10 Experience Centres & 9 Service Centres across Punjab, including 1 in Chandigarh, strengthening its retail and customer support network across the State. The company also has 52 LECCS fast charging points across Punjab, supporting the growing adoption of electric two-wheelers in the region.

In Haryana too, Ather improved its market share from 3.4% in Q1 FY26 to 8.5% in Q1 FY27 registering 174% year-on-year growth (as per Vahan) and selling 383 units (as per Vahan) during Q1 FY27. Ather currently has 8 Experience Centres & 8 Service Centres across Haryana, including 1 in Chandigarh strengthening its retail and customer support network across the State. The company also has 66 LECCS fast charging points across Haryana, supporting the growing adoption of electric two-wheelers in the region.

Hrishikesh Thite, VP Business, Ather Energy, said, “Punjab and Haryana are important markets in our journey towards making electric mobility more accessible to a wider set of riders. With Konarc, we intend to make EV scooters mainstream in India and the scooter has been designed and engineered to meet the needs of those buyers who are waiting to go electric. Features like the metal body, up to 200 km range, plush and comfortable ride, fast home charging, service interval of 10,000 kms and extended battery warranty of 10 years or 1,00,000 km (whichever is earlier) at 70% health guarantee are some of the fundamentals that matter to the buyers in this region. We see Konarc playing an important role in strengthening our presence here and accelerating the shift towards electric mobility in Punjab and Haryana”

Konarc has been engineered around the realities of Indian roads, with a focus on stability, comfort and everyday usability. It features a 14-inch front alloy wheel, 12-inch rear alloy wheel, 1,352 mm wheelbase and long-travel suspension at both ends. It is also Ather’s first scooter to feature metal panels on the rear side and a steel unibody chassis, while its sequential gear-drive transmission is designed to offer smooth and near-silent power delivery.

The scooter introduces a new suite of technology-led features designed to simplify everyday riding. AeBSTM, Ather’s in-house Advanced Electronic Braking System, dynamically adjusts braking force between the front and rear wheels based on road conditions, while also using regenerative braking to enhance braking performance and stability. MagicKey enables a keyless experience with SmartWake™️, automatic locking and remote scooter location. AutoPop provides convenient, hands-free access to the under-seat storage, while AirWalkTM uses mild assistive motor torque to make manually moving the scooter easier in tight parking spaces. Konarc also simplifies charging and ownership. It comes with an integrated onboard charger and charging cable, while the optional 450W offboard charger can work with the built-in 450W charger to deliver 900W through Combined Charging, reducing home charging time by up to half.

With Konarc, Ather continues to expand its product portfolio in Punjab, alongside the sporty Ather 450TM Series and the popular family scooter RiztaTM. The launch in Chandigarh marks another step in the company’s efforts to strengthen its retail, service and charging ecosystem in the state and bring its latest electric mobility solutions to a broader set of riders.

Chandigarh:

“Technology can assist doctors but can never substitute human experience, compassion and the emotional touch,”: Prof. Vivek Lal, Director PGIMER

“Compassion, integrity, ethics and a patient-centric approach are the core values that will continue to define the medical profession in the era of rapidly advancing technology and Artificial Intelligence (AI),” said Prof. Vivek Lal, Director, PGIMER Chandigarh, while inaugurating the Annual PGI Arthroplasty Conference 2026 as Chief Guest.

The Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, PGIMER Chandigarh, is organising the conference under the aegis of the Arthroplasty Society of Tricity from 17–19 September 2026 at The Lalit, Chandigarh. The theme is “Mastering the Precision and Newer Techniques in Joint Replacement.”

Addressing distinguished medical professionals, senior specialists, young doctors and students, Prof. Lal emphasised the importance of keeping the patient at the centre of healthcare and adopting a comprehensive approach to clinical care as he stated, “It is important that we keep the patient in the centre of whatever we do. They are our biggest assets.”

Stressing that medicine cannot be practised in silos when patients require expertise from multiple disciplines, Director PGIMER said, “That is where the role of a neurologist, the role of an internist and the role of other domains of medicine comes into being. Medicine cannot be practised in silos when the patient requires a comprehensive approach.”

Speaking about the growing influence of AI in healthcare, Prof. Lal said technology should remain an aid to doctors and not a replacement for human experience and judgement.

“AI may help me, and it may be very good and fantastic, but I don’t think it can substitute for the experience of your hands, ” as hedescribed AI as a transformative technology while emphasising the need for responsible engagement with its implications.

Prof. Lal said that preserving the human dimension of medicine would become increasingly important as technology advances.

“If you want to maintain sanity in medicine, it is ultimately our emotional touch, our compassion, our patient-centric approach, and our alignment of thought and action towards the well-being of humanity.”

Director PGIMER also urged young doctors to focus on professional excellence, clinical skills and integrity rather than commercial considerations. “A fast buck comes fast and goes fast. It is better you calibrate your skills and hone your clinical skills so that patients come after you, rather than you going after patients.”

Calling medicine a noble profession, Prof. Lal said healthcare professionals have a responsibility towards society and must preserve the trust placed in them by patients.

Concluding his address, Prof. Lal reiterated the importance of maintaining compassion, integrity and ethics alongside scientific and technological progress as he said, “I see no reason why we should falter on the front of compassion, on the front of integrity and ethics.”

Earlier, Prof. Vijay G. Goni, Head, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, PGIMER Chandigarh, highlighted the evolution of contemporary arthroplasty and the growing role of personalised planning, precision surgery, navigation and robotics.

“Orthopaedic surgery now involves a much broader spectrum, including patient selection, personalised planning, precision surgery and enhanced recovery. We are witnessing the growing use of navigation, robotics and other advanced technologies for complex as well as primary procedures. But while technology and techniques continue to evolve, the central principle remains unchanged—the patient has to remain at the centre of everything we do.”

Prof. Goni said the conference provides a platform for experts and young professionals to exchange experience and discuss challenging cases.

“Over the next few days, we have brought together experts from different institutions and different areas of expertise to share their experience, discuss challenging cases, question established practices and, most importantly, learn from each other.”

Highlighting the practical component, Pro0f. Goni added, “Yesterday, we had a pre-conference cadaver workshop, where we conducted workshops on complex and primary surgery and also had exposure to robotics.”

The Annual PGI Arthroplasty Conference 2026 includes the 3rd PGI Arthroplasty Course, live surgical demonstrations, a cadaveric workshop, hands-on learning, expert national and international faculty and case-based discussions. The programme focuses on precision and newer techniques in joint replacement.

The scientific sessions cover contemporary approaches to total knee arthroplasty, personalised alignment, navigation, robotics, complex primary procedures, Direct Anterior Approach (DAA) for hip replacement and Unicompartmental Knee Arthroplasty (UKA). Hands-on training includes cadaveric and saw-bone based learning, including manual and robotic techniques.

Dr. Deepak, Organising Secretary of the conference, highlighted the collaborative spirit of the meeting and expressed his gratitude to the faculty and delegates for their participation. The conference has brought together distinguished faculty from leading institutions across India, along with international faculty from Australia and Afghanistan, providing a truly diverse platform for academic exchange and sharing of surgical experience. He said that the participation of senior experts, young surgeons and trainees would make the meeting an important forum for discussion, learning and collaboration in the evolving field of joint replacement.

The conference brings together experts from leading institutions across the various countries to  facilitate knowledge-sharing and practical learning, with emphasis on appropriate patient selection, personalised planning, surgical precision, evidence-based decision-making, enhanced recovery and long-term patient outcomes.

Chandigarh:

“ Nothing can beat the watchful eyes of a healthcare professional when it comes to patient safety. Technology can assist us, but it cannot replace human observation, alertness and clinical judgement at the bedside,”
stated Prof. Vivek Lal, Director, PGIMER, while speaking as the Chief Guest at the inaugural session of the Institute’s observance of World Patient Safety Day 2026 at PGIMER today.

The inaugural programme, held at the Auditorium of the Advanced Eye Centre, PGIMER, brought together faculty members, residents, students, nursing staff and healthcare professionals from different disciplines. The programme was attended by Prof. Sanjay Jain, Dean (Academics) and Chairperson, Institute Patient Safety Committee; Prof. Vijay K. Goni, Acting Medical Superintendent; and Dr. Mahesh Devnani, Nodal Officer, Patient Safety, Department of Hospital Administration , among others.
Prof. Lal emphasised that the first principle of medicine—do no harm—lies at the heart of patient safety. Cautioning against excessive dependence on technology and gadgets, Director PGIMER said, “ If we believe that AI alone is going to promote patient safety, we may be overlooking the most important safeguard—the watchful healthcare professional.”

Recalling an incident from his internship in 1986–87, when a large number of trauma victims were expected at a civil hospital in Punjab, Prof. Lal said a senior surgeon had taught him that “ the first casualty during an acute event is logical thinking.” He was assigned to stand outside the emergency department and ensure that incoming victims were directed correctly. “ That day I learnt that in patient safety, small things are often the big things,” he said.
Prof. Lal also recalled a 27-year-old trauma patient whose vital parameters appeared relatively reassuring, but whose sweating caught the attention of the senior surgeon. Further exploration revealed a ruptured spleen and the patient recovered. “ A normal blood pressure or a reassuring monitor does not always tell the whole story. We must learn to notice those signs,” he said.
Calling for a stronger culture of prevention, Prof. Lal said, “What is truly unpredictable may not be in our hands, but what is preventable must be prevented.” He stressed that patient safety extends beyond major clinical interventions to everyday practices including correct prescriptions, patient identification, sterilised linen, safe food, documentation, communication and proper handovers.
“ A proper handover is a mandate. Take the resident to the bedside, explain the patient’s problems and ensure that the information is understood. Every member of the healthcare team is part of this ecosystem of care,” Prof. Lal underlined.
“ Keep your watchful eyes open in the wards. The strongest layer of patient safety is the alert, responsible and compassionate healthcare professional ,” Prof. Lal said in conclusion.
Speaking on the occasion, Prof. Sanjay Jain, Dean (Academics) and Chairperson, Institute Patient Safety Committee said that every patient enters a hospital with the expectation of getting better and healthcare professionals must ensure that treatment does not inadvertently cause additional harm.
“ If we cannot always cure, the least we can do is ensure that we do not create another problem or disease. That is at the core of patient safety ,” he said.
Highlighting medication safety, Prof. Jain recalled an instance involving a look-alike, sound-alike medication, where a patient was receiving a different drug from the one intended.
“ We must never presume that whatever we are doing is right. We have to keep our eyes and ears open and verify what the patient is actually receiving,” he said.
Prof. Jain emphasised that patient safety is a collective responsibility involving doctors, nurses, technicians, radiologists, support staff and every other person contributing to patient care. “ Healthcare has become extremely complex. Patient safety cannot be managed by one group alone,” he said.
Prof. Jain added that the quality of healthcare is reflected not only through sophisticated infrastructure but also through simple indicators such as patient falls, medication errors, correct patient identification and safe blood transfusion practices.
“ The purpose of observing Patient Safety Day is to recognise these risks and reduce preventable harm . All of us must work together to provide patients with an environment that is healthier and safer, so that a patient who comes to us goes home with a smile,” Prof. Jain said.
Dr. Mahesh Devnani, Nodal Officer, Patient Safety, said that safe practices must become an integral part of everyday clinical systems. “ Standardised processes, effective communication, infection control, medication safety, safe surgery and continuous monitoring are essential for reducing preventable risks and building reliable healthcare systems,” he said.
The technical programme comprised a series of expert sessions addressing critical aspects of patient safety. The session on “Medication Safety and Antimicrobial Resistance” was delivered by Prof. Nusrat Shafiq, Department of Pharmacology highlighting the importance of safe medication practices and responsible antimicrobial use.
This was followed by a session on “Safe Transfusion Practices” by Dr. Hari Krishan Dhawan , Department of Transfusion Medicine focusing on measures to ensure safe and appropriate blood transfusion.
Dr. Mahesh Devnani, Department of Hospital Administration, addressed “ Infection Prevention and Control, and Safe Biomedical Waste Management Practices,” emphasising the role of systematic infection-control measures and responsible biomedical waste management in maintaining a safe healthcare environment.
The programme resumed with a session on “ Surgical Safety” delivered by Prof. L. Kaman, Department of General Surgery, focusing on measures to minimise risks and ensure safety across the surgical-care pathway.
The programme concluded with a Panel Discussion on the theme of World Patient Safety Day 2026, “ Safe Care for Noncommunicable Diseases,”. The discussion focused on patient-safety challenges in the prevention, diagnosis and long-term management of noncommunicable diseases, which require continuous and coordinated care.
The panel was chaired by Prof. Arun Aggarwal, Department of Community Medicine and School of Public Health, and included Prof. A. N. Aggarwal, Department of Pulmonary Medicine and Prof. Manisha Biswal, Department of Medical Microbiology, with Prof. Shankar Prinja, Department of Community Medicine and School of Public Health, as Moderator.
The programme highlighted that patient safety is a shared responsibility requiring coordinated efforts across clinical, diagnostic, nursing, technical, administrative and support services.

Chandigarh: Former Chief Minister and Leader of the Opposition Bhupinder Singh Hooda on Thursday said that the fees levied on UPI payments represent a new inflationary blow to the common man. “The BJP government is misleading the public by claiming that this will not burden the customer; however, the reality is that whenever merchant fees are imposed, the burden invariably falls on the customer,” he stated. Hooda cited the example of taxes and various fees levied on petrol and diesel; oil companies never pay these themselves, and ultimately, the customers have to foot the bill. That is why the general public ends up paying 40–50 percent in taxes on fuel. Similarly, petrol pump operators do not pay card payment charges themselves; instead, they recover the cost from the customer under the guise of a “fuel surcharge.”

He said jewelers add a “card surcharge” to the bill to offset the 1.5–2 percent MDR (Merchant Discount Rate) payable to banks. IRCTC, cinema halls, and travel apps collect payment gateway charges from passengers under the label of “convenience fees.” Many shopkeepers refuse card payments for small bills to avoid processing costs, effectively forcing customers to make larger purchases. Restaurants and large stores, despite it being illegal to directly add MDR to the bill, recover the amount from customers by imposing a 5 percent “service charge.”

“The same scenario will play out with UPI fees. Traders and large merchants will add this 0.4 percent charge (or the maximum cap of ₹300) to the bill. Expenses such as school and college fees, rations, medicines, clothing, and daily purchases will become costlier,” he said.

“The claim regarding an exemption for small traders on transactions up to ₹1 lakh is merely on paper; the goods they procure from suppliers will already have the UPI payment fee factored into the price, meaning customers will ultimately pay more for those items,” he added.

Hooda remarked that the government, which championed the “Digital India” slogan, is now imposing taxes on the very system that the common man had adopted precisely because it was free of cost.

“Imposing fees on that system now amounts to a direct betrayal of the public. The Congress demands the immediate withdrawal of these fees. Instead of devising new ways to burden the common man with the impact of inflation, the government should seek avenues to provide relief,” he demanded.

Chandigarh, September 16, 2026:

The Seva Sankalp Utsav will begin on September 17, the birth anniversary of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and will continue for an entire month until October 17. As part of the celebrations, a grand rangoli event titled “Seva Ke Rang” will be organised at different locations across the city on October 7. This information was shared by senior BJP leader Sanjay Tandon.

Sanjay Tandon, who is the convenor of the programme, said that on this occasion, BJP Chandigarh will create a huge rangoli spread over an area of 108×108 metres. In addition, rangoli will be created across all six districts of Chandigarh, covering an area of 17×17 metres in each district. Ramesh Sahod will be the co-convenor of the programme.

A key meeting in this regard was held at the BJP office ‘Kamalam’ in Sector 33 under the leadership of Sanjay Tandon. Mahila Morcha President Sonam Verma, and General Secretaries Ruby Gupta and Hema Sharma, along with convenors from all districts, were present at the meeting. District-wise convenors have been appointed to ensure the successful organisation of the programme, while the active participation of the Mahila Morcha has also been ensured. The Mahila Morcha will create rangolis across 35 mandals.

The meeting also discussed in detail the preparations for the programme, district-level events and measures to ensure the participation of the maximum number of party workers.

Chandigarh:

“India beautifully blends its rich cultural heritage with modernity and innovation. Chandigarh is a glimpse of this modern India-planned, progressive and welcoming. We are delighted to host international delegates and give them an opportunity to experience our culture, hospitality and the spirit of Chandigarh.”–Dr. Syed Abid Rasheed Shah (IAS), Secretary, Chandigarh Tourism, Chief Guest at the valedictory ceremony of the 8^th Public Health Policy and Management (PHPM) Programme held at PGIMER, Chandigarh. Addressing the gathering, he further said, thisprogramme served not only as an academic and professional platform but also as an important avenue for India’s soft diplomacy, fostering goodwill, mutual understanding and stronger institutional and professional relationships among participating countries.

Organised under the prestigious Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation (ITEC) Programme of the Ministry of External Affairs, Government of India, the one-week international capacity-building programme successfully concluded its eighth edition, reaffirming India’s commitment to global public health, South-South cooperation, knowledge diplomacy and capacity building of health-sector leaders. The programme brought together 45 senior healthcare professionals from 25 countries, creating a unique international platform for policy dialogue, knowledge exchange, leadership development, mutual learning and sharing of best practices in public health and health-system management. The participating countries included nations from Africa, Asia, Europe, Latin America and the Middle East, reflecting the diversity and strength of India’s partnerships across the Global South.

The delegates appreciated the opportunity to experience India’s healthcare system and gain insights into how policy is translated into practice. Delegates from various countries shared their experiences of learning at PGIMER Chandigarh and acknowledged India’s robust healthcare ecosystem. They appreciated the program’s practical and interactive learning methodology, particularly the exposure to innovative initiatives in PGIMER like Green Hospital Initiative, Regional Organ and Tissue Transplant Organization (ROTTO), televidence and telemedicine department. The program highlighted how flagship Government of India initiatives, including the National Health Mission (NHM), Ayushman Bharat, the National Organ Transplant Programme, and the country’s digital health and sustainability initiatives, are translated into practice at one of India’s premier tertiary healthcare institutions. The delegates explored innovative approaches that strengthen health systems while advancing universal health coverage through quality, accessible, and patient-centred care. Excursion visits to ICCC and open hand monument was organised during the program.

Reflecting on the decade-long journey of the initiative, Dr. Sonu Goel remarked, “Over the last ten years, IPHMDP has grown into a globally recognized model for leadership and management training. Rooted in India’s timeless philosophy of ‘VasudhaivaKutumbakam’– the world is one family -the program has gone beyond academic learning to build lasting partnerships, promote mutual trust, and foster international collaboration.” He further highlighted that the program has now trained over 1,850 public health professionals from 97 countries, creating a vibrant global network of health leaders.

The program concluded with a certificate distribution ceremony recognizing the successful completion of the training by all participants. The successful completion of the program once again underscored India’s growing leadership in global public health and reaffirmed PGIMER Chandigarh as a trusted international centre for capacity building, health systems strengthening, and global knowledge exchange.

Chandigarh:

Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGIMER), Chandigarh has received national recognition for its flagship patient-navigation initiative, *Project SARATHI*, at the National Patient Safety Conference (NPSC) 2026, organised by AIIMS Nagpur in collaboration with the National Patient Safety Secretariat, Directorate General of Health Services, Ministry of Health & Family Welfare.

Project SARATHI was recognised as an “Outstanding Best Practice” for its exemplary contribution towards patient safety and quality of care. PGIMER was also presented a Special Recognition Award for “Best Practices in Patient Safety 2026” at the conference held on September 11–12, 2026.

Expressing his happiness, ***Prof. Vivek Lal, Director, PGIMER, ***said, “This national recognition of Project SARATHI is a matter of immense pride for PGIMER. SARATHI represents the power of empathy, volunteerism and responsible citizenship in making healthcare more accessible and humane. In an institution serving millions of patients, sometimes a simple act of guiding, listening and helping can make a profound difference to a patient’s experience. We are committed to strengthening and scaling this model so that its benefits reach even more patients and healthcare institutions.”

Echoing the same sentiment, *Mr. Pankaj Rai, Deputy Director (Administration), PGIMER,* said, “SARATHI has demonstrated how a structured volunteer programme can create a meaningful impact on patient experience and hospital efficiency. By helping patients navigate the system and addressing non-clinical difficulties at the point of need, SARATHIs contribute significantly to smoother patient movement and better utilisation of hospital services. This recognition is a strong endorsement of the commitment of our students and the entire PGIMER team.”

Ms Saryu D. Madra,Consultant (IEC/Media), ROTTO North cum PRO, PGIMER Chandigarh, represented PGIMER at the national forum and made a presentation on Project SARATHI, showcasing its innovative approach, implementation framework, measurable impact and potential for replication across healthcare institutions. She also received the recognition and award on behalf of PGIMER.

Launched in May 2024, Project SARATHI—Students’ Alliance for Responsible Action to Transform Healthcare Institutes—engages trained student volunteers to assist patients and attendants, particularly those unfamiliar with the hospital system. SARATHIs provide guidance on OPD navigation, registration, service locations, queues, investigations, reports and other non-clinical requirements, helping patients access the right service at the right place.

With PGIMER witnessing more than 30 lakh OPD visits annually, the initiative has evolved into a large-scale patient-support model. More than 2,700 students have participated as SARATHI volunteers, contributing over 1.6 lakh hours of service. The initiative has supported millions of patient interactions and helped reduce avoidable confusion and waiting in OPD areas.

The SARATHI model is aligned with the spirit of the National Education Policy 2020, promoting experiential learning, community engagement and social responsibility among students while ensuring that volunteering does not compromise their academic responsibilities. The initiative has also demonstrated that patient safety extends beyond clinical care to include clear communication, accessibility, orientation and a compassionate patient experience.

Chandigarh, September 13: Haryana Chief Minister Sh. Nayab Singh Saini on Sunday attacked the Aam Aadmi Party government in Punjab, saying that the people of Punjab want development, employment, security for industries and solutions to their problems, not jokes, publicity and advertisements. There has never been any shortage of ability or hard work among the people of Punjab, but the policies, intentions and leadership of governments that have failed to provide the state with the right direction have pushed Punjab behind in the race for development.

The Chief Minister was addressing a public meeting organised at Kakrala village in Patiala on Sunday. Former Minister Preneet Kaur, Professor Malkit Singh and other dignitaries were present on the occasion. On this occasion, hundreds of people joined the Bharatiya Janata Party. The Chief Minister welcomed all those who joined the party.

Sh. Nayab Singh Saini said that although Punjab and Haryana are two separate states, their roots, culture and heritage are one. Paying homage to this great land of Gurus, Pirs and martyrs, he said that the people of Punjab are now asking why Punjab has fallen behind despite having fertile land, hardworking people and immense potential.

The Chief Minister said that at one time Punjab was counted among the most prosperous states in the country. Haryana, which came into existence nearly 19 years after Punjab was formed, has today moved far ahead of Punjab in terms of economic progress. In 2025-26, Haryana’s real economic growth rate is estimated at 9.5 per cent, while Punjab’s growth rate is only 6.1 per cent. Thus, Haryana is progressing 3.4 percentage points faster than Punjab. Similarly, in 2026-27, Haryana’s economy is estimated at approximately ₹15.18 lakh crore, while Punjab’s is estimated at approximately ₹9.81 lakh crore. There is a difference of approximately ₹5.38 lakh crore in the economic size of the two states. This difference is a difference of the right policy, clear intent and accountable leadership.

He said that in 2023-24, Haryana’s share in the country’s GDP was approximately 3.6 per cent, while Punjab’s share was approximately 2.4 per cent. Haryana’s per capita income was estimated at 176.8 per cent of the national average, while Punjab’s was estimated at 106.7 per cent.

The Chief Minister said that at one time, Punjab’s per capita income used to be nearly twice the national average, but the situation has changed today. He said that the people of Punjab want an answer as to why the state’s economic potential is not being fully utilised.

*Economy is strengthened by work, not publicity and advertisements*

The Chief Minister said that the Aam Aadmi Party government has given Punjab more publicity than work and more advertisements than results. Repeating false claims does not strengthen an economy. An economy becomes strong when industries receive security, youth get employment, traders have confidence, farmers receive remunerative prices and the benefits of government schemes reach people directly without discrimination.

He said that it is the government’s responsibility to go among the people, listen to their problems and resolve them. Jokes work in cinema halls, but among the people, the discussion is about work, development and solutions to public problems. He said that the Congress had also made big promises to the people of Punjab but failed to fulfil them. The Aam Aadmi Party also made numerous promises, but they remained merely promises and people did not get relief from their problems.

*Haryana Government has fulfilled 70 out of 217 promises*

The Chief Minister said that under the leadership of Prime Minister Sh. Narendra Modi, the present BJP government in Haryana has been working to fulfil the promises made to the people. Out of the 217 promises made during the 2024 Assembly elections, 70 have already been fulfilled within 18 months of the government’s tenure.

Sh. Nayab Singh Saini said that the Haryana Government has provided major relief to kidney patients. Patients had to spend between ₹25,000 and ₹30,000 per dialysis session. However, in accordance with the promise made in the election manifesto, the Haryana Government has implemented the decision to waive the entire cost of dialysis. Patients now do not have to spend money from their own pockets for this treatment.

He said that the Haryana Government has also fulfilled its promises regarding the dignity and empowerment of women. Women from families with an annual income of up to ₹1.80 lakh are being provided LPG cylinders at ₹500. In the last 18 months, more than ₹300 crore has been deposited into women’s accounts.

He said that the promise to provide monthly assistance of ₹2,100 to women under the Deen Dayal Lado Lakshmi Yojana has also been implemented. The government had made a provision of ₹5,000 crore for this in its very first budget. In the last 18 months, more than ₹2,000 crore has been deposited into women’s accounts.

*Entire crop of farmers being procured at MSP in Haryana*

The Chief Minister said that under the leadership of Prime Minister Sh. Narendra Modi, the Haryana Government has fulfilled its promise to farmers by procuring their entire crop at the Minimum Support Price (MSP). Haryana is the first state in the country where the entire crop of farmers is being procured at MSP. Full payment for the crop is being made into farmers’ accounts within 48 to 72 hours. If payment takes more than 72 hours, farmers are paid along with interest.

Chief Minister Sh. Nayab Singh Saini, targeting the Aam Aadmi Party government over the growing drug menace in Punjab and the future of its youth, said that when a person raised his voice before the government to keep children away from drugs, he was harassed and an attempt was made to silence his voice. Hurt by this, he ended his life. He said that this incident raises serious questions about law and order, sensitive governance and respect for the voice of ordinary citizens in Punjab.

The Chief Minister said that injustice is also being done to the youth of Punjab in the name of employment. He said that it has come to light that people close to MLAs got jobs in the recruitment of Excise Inspectors in Punjab. In contrast, under the leadership of Prime Minister Sh. Narendra Modi, the BJP government in Haryana has given priority to transparency and merit in government recruitment. In Haryana, youth are getting government jobs without “parchi and kharchi”, entirely on the basis of merit.

The Chief Minister said that some people talk about honesty but seek votes through jokes. He said that the people are concerned not with jokes but with work.

*Assurance to extend the benefits of Haryana’s schemes to the people of Punjab*

The Chief Minister said that the people of Punjab now want work on the ground, not merely announcements. He expressed confidence that Punjab can also be given strong momentum on the path of progress by advancing the policies of development, good governance and public welfare under the leadership of Prime Minister Sh. Narendra Modi. The public welfare schemes being implemented in Haryana under the leadership of Prime Minister Sh. Narendra Modi will also be extended to the people of Punjab. He said that just as schemes are being implemented in Haryana for the poor, women, farmers and needy families, similar efforts will be made with commitment to ensure that the people of Punjab also benefit from these schemes.

*The example of how a BJP government works can be seen in Haryana: Preneet Kaur*

Former Minister Maharani Preneet Kaur said that under the leadership of Prime Minister Sh. Narendra Modi, India has established a strong identity at the global level. Today, India is among the world’s major economic powers. This is no small achievement. She said that Prime Minister Sh. Narendra Modi is continuously working to make the country strong, capable and developed. She said that it is the need of the hour to free the children of Punjab from drugs and other evils and provide them with opportunities for education, employment and development. She expressed confidence that only the Bharatiya Janata Party, with the support of the Central Government, can effectively work towards making Punjab drug-free, developed and prosperous.

She said that the people of Punjab are also witnessing the development works being undertaken in Haryana under the leadership of Chief Minister Sh. Nayab Singh Saini and the functioning of the government. She said that Haryana provides an example of how a BJP government works. She said that development can also be accelerated in Punjab by working together with the Central Government. She appealed to the people to vote in favour of the BJP in the upcoming elections.

Chandigarh, September 13: Haryana Energy, Transport and Labour Minister Sh. Anil Vij said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s birthday would be observed as “Seva Sankalp Abhiyan”. He said that if one looks at the life of Prime Minister Modi, it becomes evident that his entire life has been dedicated to serving the people.

Sh. Vij was addressing people and party workers this evening at Farooka Khalsa School, Ambala Cantonment, regarding the Seva Sankalp Abhiyan, which will be organised from September 17 to October 17 to mark Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s birthday and 25 years of his dedicated public service.

He said that Prime Minister Modi has introduced numerous schemes for the welfare of the people, including the Ayushman Bharat card, Ujjwala Yojana, annual financial assistance of ₹6,000 to farmers, and several other initiatives. “This is why the programme has been named ‘Seva Sankalp Abhiyan’. The kind of service Prime Minister Modi has rendered during his tenure as Chief Minister and Prime Minister, and the achievements of his life, cannot be adequately described through any single speech,” he said.

*“India’s stature has risen across the world under Prime Minister Modi”: Anil Vij*

 

Energy Minister Anil Vij said that the BRICS Summit is being hosted in India, and people from major countries are standing alongside India’s Prime Minister, which is a matter of pride for the country. He said that the respect Indians command abroad today is largely due to Prime Minister Modi. “He has enhanced India’s prestige across the world,”Vij said. Sharing his own experience of travelling abroad, he said that the respect Indians receive across the world today was not seen in the past. He attributed this change to Prime Minister Modi and said that the Prime Minister has helped Indians attain a more dignified position globally.

*“Under Modi’s leadership, India gave a befitting response to terrorism”: Anil Vij*

 

Energy Minister Anil Vij said that during Operation Sindoor last year, India, under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, gave a befitting response to Pakistan without seeking assistance from any other country. He alleged that due to the “mistakes” of previous governments, India lost territory in Jammu and Kashmir. He referred to Aksai Chin and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir in this context and said that the entire region could otherwise have been part of India.

Sh. Vij said there was a major difference between the previous governments and the present government in dealing with terrorism. “Earlier, terrorists would enter the country from across the border, kill innocent people and leave, while we were limited to paying tributes. But now, if such an act takes place, we enter their territory and strike them,” he said. He added that India is now recognised across the world as a country that is capable of taking action against forces threatening its national security and sovereignty.

*“We have fulfilled every responsibility by putting our lives on the line; politics for us is not a business opportunity, but an opportunity to serve”: Anil Vij*

 

Energy Minister Anil Vij said that the history of Ambala Cantonment has been that whenever a responsibility has been entrusted to its people, they have fulfilled it with complete dedication and commitment. “This is our history. The people of this district have elected me as their MLA seven times based on my work and performance,” he said. Referring to the recent Lok Sabha and Assembly elections, Vij said that among the four Assembly constituencies in the district, the BJP emerged victorious only in Ambala Cantonment, which, he said, was due to the hard work and strength of party workers. He said, “Whatever we have been able to accomplish has been possible because of the strength of our workers.” Sh.Vij said that he has been associated with the BJP organisation since his childhood, since 1970, and that one principle had always been instilled in him: “Politics is not an opportunity for business; politics is an opportunity to serve.”

*“Our party and government are dedicated to public service”: Anil Vij*

 

Energy Minister Anil Vij said that the programme has been named Seva Sankalp because the party and government are committed to serving the people. He said that all schemes and initiatives undertaken by the government have consistently been aimed at public welfare. He said that during the Seva Sankalp Abhiyan, the lighting of diyas would be undertaken as a collective activity. He urged party workers to ensure that a diya is lit at the home of every beneficiary. Vij directed the BJP Mandal Presidents, Mandal in-charges and other workers to ensure that every beneficiary’s home is covered under the diya-lighting initiative.

*Anil Vij briefs workers on various initiatives under Seva Sankalp Abhiyan*

 

Energy Minister Anil Vij said that several initiatives have been planned as part of the Seva Sankalp Abhiyan, which party workers would undertake collectively. He said that on September 17, a “blessing diya” would be lit and every household should be covered. “Ambala should appear as if the entire city is celebrating Diwali,” he said. He added that diyas could also be lit at places where development works and major projects have been completed in Ambala Cantonment. He said that the list of development works undertaken is extensive and there are numerous locations where such initiatives can be carried out.

During his address, Energy Minister Anil Vij also urged workers and the public to participate enthusiastically in various other initiatives under the Seva Sankalp Abhiyan, including Mere Sapno Ka Bharat Chitra Seva, Namo Seva–Ankahi Kahaniyan, Aangan Milan Seva, Seva Ki Kahani, Vadnagar–Varanasi Seva Yatra, Seva Jyoti Kalash Yatra–Sankalp of Viksit Bharat, Seva Mera Yogdan, Seva Setu Abhiyan, Seva Ke Rang–Rashtra Ke Sang, Seva First Innovation Challenge and Sushasan Seva Diwas.

He called for these initiatives to be undertaken with maximum public participation and collective involvement.

On the occasion, BJP leaders Deepak Sharma, Rajesh Bataura, Sanjeev Soni, Municipal Council President Swarn Kaur, Vice-President Lalita Prasad, Rajiv Dimple, Surendra Bindra, Kiranpal Chauhan, Balwinder Shahpur, Ajay Baweja, Madan Lal Sharma, Tarvinder Singh, Jasbir Jassi, Vijender Chauhan, B.S. Bindra, Sudarshan Singh Sehgal, Ravi Budhiraja, Harsh Bindra, Vikas Bahgal, Ravi Sehgal and others were present.