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Ayushman Bharat: State Government releases budget, Hospital payments initiated 

Chandigarh, Aug 5 – The State Health Agency (SHA), Haryana acknowledges the letter issued by the Indian Medical Association (IMA), Haryana dated 28th July 2025, wherein the IMA has expressed its decision to halt services under the Ayushman Bharat – Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB-PMJAY) starting from 7th August 2025, citing outstanding payments as the reason. In this context, SHA, Haryana wishes to clarify the current status of payments, claim processing, grievance redressal mechanisms, and empanelment procedures to provide transparency and reassurance to all stakeholders. 

We are pleased to inform that the budget has been received from the State Government on 4th August 2025, and accordingly, payment to empanelled hospitals has been initiated on a First-In-First-Out (FIFO) basis. This development reflects the State Government’s commitment to ensuring timely disbursement of funds and uninterrupted delivery of healthcare services under the Ayushman Bharat scheme. 

The SHA, Haryana has already processed and paid claims submitted by empanelled hospitals up to the first week of May 2025. A total of Rs. 2,900 crore has been disbursed to hospitals since the inception of the scheme. During the financial year 2025-26, up to 16th July 2025, an amount of Rs. 240.63 crore has been received from the State and Central Governments and fully utilized for settlement of eligible claims. 

Claims submitted by empanelled hospitals are processed by a team of 50 doctors through the NHA’s online platform. The portal ensures a transparent and impartial claim allocation process by randomly assigning cases to processors. All deductions are made strictly as per NHA guidelines and only when adequate clinical justification or documentation is lacking. Before any rejection or deduction, hospitals are given an opportunity to upload the required supporting documents such as vital charts, clinical images, OT notes, and test reports. If a hospital disagrees with a deduction, it may file an appeal through the portal. These appeals are reviewed by a designated Medical Audit Committee. 

The SHA has also taken cognizance of the grievances raised by hospitals regarding payment delays, claim rejections, and non-processing of claims. To date, over 400 grievances from empanelled hospitals have been formally registered and resolved through the CGRMS 2.0 portal. In an effort to support hospitals in using this platform effectively, the SHA has conducted training sessions for hospital representatives. Additional training sessions are scheduled in the coming days to enhance understanding and address any functional issues. 

Regarding hospital empanelment and NABH incentives, all hospitals that submitted NABH incentive applications and received approval through the earlier HEM 1.0 portal shall continue to be eligible for the incentive, provided their NABH certificates remain valid. Hospitals applying afresh for NABH incentives are required to submit updated documents via the HEM 2.0 portal. Such applications are reviewed on priority by the Office of AB-HHPA, SHA, Haryana. 

The SHA wishes to highlight that regular communication is maintained with IMA Haryana to address their concerns. Notably, Haryana is the first state to ensure IMA representation in the District Medical Audit Committees and District Grievance Redressal Committees. Additionally, representation of private hospitals through IMA is ensured in the State Grievance Redressal Committee and State Empanelment Committee. 

SHA, Haryana remains committed to ensuring transparency, timely disbursement of payments, and strengthening public-private partnerships in healthcare delivery. Regular updates on the payment status and other operational matters are being shared with stakeholders through official channels. The SHA urges all stakeholders to continue their collaborative efforts in serving the healthcare needs of the people of Haryana under the Ayushman Bharat scheme. 

SC families to get loan under Micro Finance Scheme 

Chandigarh, August 5 – The Haryana Scheduled Castes Finance and Development Corporation has invited applications from Scheduled Caste families to help them start their own income-generating ventures or self-employment through Micro finance scheme loans of up to Rs.1 lakh and Term loan scheme of Rs. 2 lakh. 

Sharing information in this regard, an official spokesperson said that any individual from a Scheduled Caste aged between 18 and 45 years, and having a family income of less than Rs. 3 lakh, is eligible to apply. Interested candidates can submit their application along with necessary documents such as Aadhaar card, caste certificate, Parivar Pehchan Patra (PPP), PAN card, bank account details, and two passport-sized photographs at the following address- Haryana Scheduled Castes Finance and Development Corporation, Plot No. 199, Industrial Area, Phase-1, Panchkula, Phone: 0172-2991227 or Candidates can also apply online by visiting (http://hscfdc.org.in) website. The last date to apply is August 21, 2025. 

New campaign for TB patients; all departments under Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs to participate

Chandigarh, August 5:  The Government of India has set an ambitious target to make the country tuberculosis (TB) free by 2025. Achieving this goal requires the active involvement and cooperation of all departments and institutions. In this regard, it is essential for all departments and institutions under the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs to actively participate in TB awareness and elimination activities. In line with this national objective, Haryana has launched a new campaign to ensure that all departments and institutions under the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs actively participate in TB awareness and elimination activities. This initiative marks a significant step toward making both Haryana and India TB free.

As part of this initiative, a team from the Haryana State TB Cell met with Mayor Panchkula Sh Kulbhushan Goyal and the councilors. The team included Dr. Sandeep Chhabra, District TB Officer, Panchkula; Dr. Sukhwant Singh, WHO Consultant; Dr. Sharanjot Singh, Medical Officer; and Ms. Lalita, District Program Coordinator.

They briefed the Mayor and councilors about the National Tuberculosis Elimination Program (NTEP) and highlighted how the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs can contribute to the goal of a TB-free India. The collaboration between NTEP and the Ministry is expected to provide fresh momentum to the national TB elimination campaign, further strengthening efforts to combat the disease.

They further informed that awareness programs will be conducted in urban slums and densely populated areas to promote TB prevention. Active case finding will be carried out through health check-up camps and door-to-door surveys. To ensure community participation, local urban bodies such as Municipal Corporations will be actively involved, strengthening TB control efforts at the grassroots level. Additionally, all institutions under the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs including offices, government and autonomous bodies, and public sector undertakings (PSUs) will be engaged in TB awareness and elimination activities.

Additionally, posters and materials on TB prevention, testing, and treatment will be displayed in all offices. Urban bodies such as Municipal Corporations and Municipalities will carry out continuous TB awareness campaigns within their jurisdictions. All employees will be educated about the symptoms of TB, its modes of transmission, and the availability of free treatment facilities. TB-related messages will also be disseminated through the social media handles of the Ministry and its affiliated institutions. ‘Nikshay Mitras’ will be appointed in all offices under the Ministry. These volunteers will adopt TB patients and support them throughout their treatment journey. This initiative by the state of Haryana will significantly strengthen the fight against TB and move us closer to the goal of a TB-free Haryana and a TB-free India.

Haryana Government Issues Guidelines to Departments on Family Pension Cases for Widowed or Divorced Daughters and Physically challenged children

Chandigarh, August 5 – The Haryana Government has issued clear instructions to departments regarding family pension cases for widowed or divorced daughters and physically challenged children, directing that provisions under the Haryana Civil Services (Pension) Rules, 2016 be strictly followed in such matters.

Chief Secretary Sh. Anurag Rastogi, who also holds the charge of Additional Chief Secretary, Finance Department, has written to all Heads of Departments, Divisional Commissioners, Deputy Commissioners, and Sub-Divisional Officers (Civil), instructing them to follow the prescribed rules meticulously in such cases.

The letter states that the Principal Accountant General (A&E) has observed that pension sanctioning authorities in various departments often do not process pension claims of widowed or divorced daughters and physically challenged children as per rules. This leads to difficulties in determining the dependency status of the claimant or dependent family member.

As per Rule 8(10)(b) of the Haryana Civil Services (Pension) Rules, 2016, the definition of “family” for the purpose of family pension is clearly outlined. Note 3 under this rule specifies that a legally adopted son or daughter—adopted under Hindu law or any other personal law—is considered an eligible child for family pension, provided they are residing with and are wholly dependent on the employee. However, the rule also clarifies that stepchildren are not covered under this provision.

The government has reiterated that strict adherence to these rules is essential to avoid delays and ensure that genuine beneficiaries receive their rightful entitlements without unnecessary procedural hurdles.

Bus Tracking System to be implemented by August 15 – Transport Minister Anil Vij

Chandigarh, August 5 – Haryana Transport Minister, Sh. Anil Vij said that the bus tracking system will be implemented across the state by August 15, 2025. An accompanying app will allow passengers to view real-time arrival times of buses.

Sh. Vij was interacting with the media in Chandigarh today.

He said that digital records will also be maintained for all Roadways equipment and spare parts. He said that after taking charge as Minister, he had issued directions to install tracking systems in all state buses. Besides this, screens will be installed at bus stations, similar to those at airports, to display bus arrival and departure information.

He said that a proposal has already been submitted to the High-Power Purchase Committee for the procurement of necessary equipment, and digital data will be maintained regarding usage — for example, when a tyre is installed, how many kilometers it was used, and when it was replaced.

Haryana Government Issues directions in Advance to Prevent Waterlogging – Energy Minister Anil Vij

Chandigarh, August 5- Haryana Energy Minister Sh. Anil Vij said that this monsoon the situation will certainly remain under control due to the  efforts made by the state government. The Haryana government had already issued advance directives to the concerned authorities in this regard.

Sh. Vij was interacting with Media persons in Chandigarh today.

He acknowledged that isolated incidents of waterlogging may have occurred, but assured that the government will take appropriate steps wherever required.

Union Jal Shakti Minister presides over pivotal meeting on Water Issue with Haryana and Punjab Chief Ministers in Delhi

Chandigarh, August 5 –  A crucial meeting on the inter-state water issue was held under the Chairmanship of Union Jal Shakti Minister, Sh. C.R. Patil on Tuesday  at  Shram Shakti Bhawan, New Delhi.  The meeting was attended by the Haryana Chief Minister, Sh. Nayab Singh Saini  and Punjab Chief Minister, Sh. Bhagwant  Mann and was conducted in a cordial and constructive atmosphere.

Later speaking to the media persons, Chief Minister, Sh. Nayab Singh Saini said that a significant step forward was made during the meeting on the ongoing dialogue over water sharing between Haryana and Punjab. The talks were held in a cordial and cooperative atmosphere, he said.

Sh. Nayab Singh Saini said that the issue has been under discussion for a long time, and earlier deliberations held on July 9 had already indicated a positive shift. This time, we have moved a step further. The discussions were held in an even more constructive environment, he said.

The Chief Minister assured that Haryana will present its case in a positive and solution-oriented manner before the Supreme Court on August 13. We are confident that a fair and favourable resolution will be achieved, he added.

In response to a question, the Chief Minister  said that the Indus Waters Treaty is a separate subject, and under that context, Rajasthan will also be entitled to its share of water.

Union Secretary, Ms.Debashree Mukherjee, Chief Principal Secretary to the Chief Minister, Sh. Rajesh Khullar, Additional Chief Secretary,  Irrigation and Water Resources Department, Sh. Anurag Agarwal, along with several senior officers from the department also attended the meeting. 

Vigilance Bureau arrests Kanugo for accepting Rs 2,000 bribe

Chandigarh August 5, 2025 –

The Punjab Vigilance Bureau (VB) during its ongoing campaign against corruption in the state on Tuesday arrested Jatinder Singh, Kanugo, posted at Shahkot, Jalandhar district for receiving a bribe of Rs 2000.

Disclosing this here today an official spokesperson of the state VB said this case has been registered on an online complaint lodged by a resident of Ludhiana on the Chief Minister Anti Corruption Action line.

He further added that the complainant has alleged that the above mentioned accused had demanded Rs 6,000 as a bribe in lieu of entering mutation of land belonging to his family member.

During verification it was found that the said Kanugo had demanded Rs 6000 bribe and taken Rs 2000 for this purpose.

The spokesperson informed that during investigation, the allegations levelled in this complaint were proved to be true.

On the basis of this enquiry a case under prevention of corruption act has been registered against the accused Kanugo. He would be produced in competent court tomorrow and further investigation into this case was under progress.

e-KYC process completed with regard to 1.27 Crore beneficiaries

Chandigarh, August 5:

The e-KYC process is gathering momentum with each passing day and till now the process has been completed with regard to 1,27, 84000 (1.27 Crore) beneficiaries. The Districts of Mansa, Sri Fatehgarh Sahib and Patiala are the top 3 places respectively in this regard.

In a review meeting held here today at the Anaj Bhawan, the Food, Civil Supplies & Consumer Affairs Minister Lal Chand Kataruchak was apprised by the senior officers of the department about the latest position concerning the e-KYC process.

It is noteworthy that e-KYC is a digital method to verify the identity and address of the beneficiary primarily using the Aadhaar Card Number and the Biometrics for authentication. The wheat to eligible beneficiaries is distributed under Public Distribution System (PDS) in 2 categories. Under Antyodaya Ann Yojna (AAY), 35 Kg of Wheat is given on per family and per month basis while under the Priority Households (PHH) category, 5 Kg Wheat on per person per month basis is provided free of cost under the National Food Security Act (NFSA), 2013.

Regarding the status of tarpaulins in connection with preparations for the upcoming Paddy procurement season 2025-26, it was brought to the notice of the Minister that the PUNGRAIN, which is the Nodal Agency for procurement of tarpaulins, has floated an e-tender for purchase of 47500 LDPE polythene tarpaulins on behalf of all the State Procurement Agencies. Besides, the department already has 95000 tarpaulins from previous year.

The Minister also reviewed the progress of construction of 46 LMT covered godowns allocated by Government of India. He directed the department to impress upon the bidder to complete the construction of covered godowns at 3.75 Lakh MT for which Letters of Award have been already issued and also directed to complete the formalities of awarding the covered godowns of 9.55 LMT capacity at the earliest. Further, he also instructed the department to complete the tendering of covered godowns of remaining 32.70 LMT capacity to ensure the maximum space is available for storage of rice during the ensuing paddy procurement season 2025-26.

Among others present on the occasion included the Principal Secretary Food, Civil Supplies and Consumer Affairs Rahul Tiwari, Director Varinder Kumar Sharma, Additional Secretary PUNGRAIN Kamal Kumar Garg and Additional Director Dr. Anjuman Bhaskar along with GM (Finance) Sarvesh Kumar Sharma.

Delegation from Karnataka visits MC Chandigarh to study solid waste management & water supply projects

Chandigarh, August 5

A high-level delegation comprising 32 elected members and office staff from the City Municipal Council, Gowribidanur, Chikkaballapur District, Karnataka, visited the Municipal Corporation Chandigarh today on a study tour aimed at gaining technical insights into the city’s solid waste management and water supply management systems in city.

The visit began with a detailed orientation session by Joint Commissioner Sh. Himanshu Gupta, who explained the functioning of the Municipal Corporation Chandigarh, highlighting various ongoing projects, innovative campaigns, and the city’s structured approach to urban governance. 

He provided insights into the planning and execution of sanitation, solid waste management, water supply schemes, and citizen engagement models that have helped Chandigarh maintain its high cleanliness and livability standards.

As part of the study tour, the delegation visited several key infrastructure sites, including the Material Recovery Facility (MRF) Centre, Composting Plant, Horticulture Waste Processing Plant, Construction & Demolition (C&D) Waste Plant, and the City Dumping Ground. These visits gave the delegation a firsthand experience of Chandigarh’s waste management cycle and sustainable practices.

The delegation undertook this tour to enhance their understanding of live projects and adopt best practices that can be replicated in their local governance framework. The officials were also briefed on smart water supply monitoring systems, waste segregation initiatives, and active citizen participation in cleanliness drives.

Punjab becomes 1st State in India to upgrade Cooperative Banks to Finacle 10 Core Banking System

Chandigarh, August 5:

In a major step towards technological advancement in the cooperative banking sector, the SAS Nagar Central Cooperative Bank and The Ropar Central Cooperative Bank have successfully upgraded their Core Banking Solution (CBS) from Finacle 7 to Finacle 10. With this achievement, Under the umbrella of NABARD, Punjab becomes the first state in India to initiate and complete this significant digital transition in its cooperative banking network.

This milestone reflects the State’s growing commitment to modernising cooperative banks, ensuring faster, secure, and more customer-friendly banking services at the grassroots level. This progress has been achieved under the able leadership of Chief Minister S. Bhagwant Singh Mann, whose focus on digital transformation and rural empowerment has provided the necessary direction and support for such reforms.

The successful migration was made possible through the strategic leadership and support of Financial Commissioner Cooperation Alok Shekhar who played a vital role in driving this initiative forward. His guidance was instrumental in shaping the vision and execution of this project.

Speaking on the development FCC Alok Shekhar stated, “The successful upgrade to Finacle 10 reflects Punjab’s commitment to strengthening rural banking infrastructure through technology. It is a major step toward delivering efficient, secure, and transparent banking services across the cooperative network. I congratulate all teams involved for achieving this milestone.”

MD Punjab State Cooperative Bank (PSCB) Harjit Singh Sandhu highlighted that the transition to Finacle 10 was a long-awaited step in reinforcing the IT backbone of cooperative banks. He said, “With Finacle 10, our banks are now equipped to offer better customer service, quicker transactions, and robust cybersecurity features. This upgradation positions us to meet the evolving needs of our customers, especially in rural and agricultural sectors.”

He also congratulated the MDs/DMs and IT teams of SAS Nagar and Ropar District Central Cooperative Banks for their dedication and efforts in successfully implementing this complex and significant migration.

Registrar Cooperative Societies Girish Dayalan was also actively involved in facilitating coordination and implementation during the migration process.

The transition is now being viewed as a model for cooperative banking reforms nationwide. Other cooperative banks in Punjab are scheduled to upgrade to Finacle 10 in a phased manner over the coming months.

This initiative marks a pivotal point in the evolution of Punjab’s cooperative banking system, setting a national benchmark for innovation, efficiency, and farmer-centric development in the sector.