IEP Chandigarh

PGIMER celebrated the 77th Republic Day with solemn pride and renewed institutional resolve, bringing together the entire PGI fraternity to honour the nation and its constitutional values. The celebrations, presided over by Prof. Vivek Lal, Director, PGIMER, included ceremonial flag hoisting, a vibrant cultural programme and an address that reflected PGIMER’s expanding national role, major clinical milestones and key administrative reforms, describing 2025 as a defining year of unprecedented milestones for the institute.

In his address, Prof. Vivek Lal, Director PGIMER highlighted PGIMER’s key contribution to Op.  Sindoor, underscoring the institute’s readiness to serve the nation beyond routine healthcare delivery as he stated, “Op. Sindoor demonstrated how PGIMER stands ready whenever the nation calls—combining speed, compassion and clinical excellence. This is public healthcare at its most meaningful.” Prof. Lal also saluted the drivers, nursing officers, resident doctors and other healthcare personnel deputed at ground zero during Op. Sindoor for their commitment, courage and professionalism.

Calling Republic Day a reminder of constitutional responsibility, Prof. Lal said, PGIMER continued to lead from the front despite rising patient load and systemic challenges, adding, “Patient load is not a burden, but a responsibility, and it is a matter of immense pride that we strengthen our constitutional duty by ensuring equitable, ethical and world-class care for every patient.”

Highlighting major clinical reforms, the Director said the extension of regular operation theatre timings from 8 am to 8 pm, an unprecedented move in public healthcare, had resulted in a 30–40 per cent reduction in surgical waiting periods. Emphasising the scale of the reform, Prof. Lal  stated, “Nowhere in the world are regular OTs run continuously at this scale. It was a difficult decision, but the results are clearly visible,” while commending the Departments of Anaesthesia, General Surgery, Neurosurgery, Pathology, Haematology, Neonatology and Transfusion Medicine for their sustained efforts.

Citing a recent organ retrieval and transplantation case successfully completed despite extreme weather and time constraints, Prof. Lal underlined PGIMER’s leadership in renal and complex organ transplantation, supported by robust green corridor coordination, seamless logistics and strong inter-departmental teamwork, stating that “PGIMER has emerged as a national leader in renal transplantation and advanced organ transplants, delivering outcomes comparable with the best centres globally.”

Addressing institutional governance, the Director announced the resolution of long-pending promotion and service matters of technical and non-faculty staff, calling it a long-overdue corrective step and said, “Our staff served the institute with dedication despite years of stagnation. That phase is now behind us,” drawing warm applause from the gathering.

Acknowledging resident doctors as the ‘karta-dharta’ of PGIMER, Prof. Lal assured that their genuine concerns and demands would be addressed through institutional mechanisms, stating, “Residents are the backbone of this institute. Their issues will be resolved with empathy and responsibility.”

The Director also noted that the induction of experienced ex-servicemen into campus security services had significantly strengthened discipline, safety and response preparedness. On infrastructure expansion, Prof. Lal said satellite centre of Sangrur and new facilities are progressing steadily, which would substantially decongest the main campus in the near future.

Emphasising PGIMER’s global standing, the Director said, “PGIMER is recognised globally as a fountain of medical knowledge. That reputation is built on integrity, service and research.”

Prof. Lal also welcomed the initiative of Vishram Sadan by Adani Group at Sarangpur, on 6,000 square metres of land at no cost to PGIMERas he said, “It is a landmark step in supporting attendants of our patients. It reflects our commitment not just to healthcare, but to compassionate care for families who are integral to the patient journey.”

Reiterating his commitment to patient-friendly care, the Director announced plans for an underground tunnel from PGI to Sarangpur. Once approved, it will reduce traffic and rush, especially when all campuses are operational. “We are committed to taking this proposal forward to the Ministry to ensure a smoother experience for patients and visitors alike,” shared Director PGIMER.

Concluding his address, Prof. Lal saluted the institute’s “Karmayogis” and reaffirmed PGIMER’s commitment to research as the spearhead of progress, stating, “As we celebrate Republic Day, we salute the perseverance of the PGIMER family that makes this institution a beacon of excellence for the nation.”

The celebrations concluded with the distribution of sweets, symbolising unity and camaraderie, and a collective pledge to uphold the constitutional values of compassion, commitment and devotion.

Chandigarh, January 26 – Haryana Chief Minister Sh. Nayab Singh Saini said there is no difference between the government’s words and its actions. Today, Haryana is writing a new definition of prosperity. Embracing the core principle of “government of the people, for the people and by the people,” the state of Haryana is moving rapidly forward, step by step, with Prime Minister Sh. Narendra Modi’s resolve of a ‘Viksit Bharat’. The Haryana Government has not only launched new schemes for the upliftment of the poor by breaking away from old practices, but has also ensured that these schemes are implemented effectively on the ground.

The Chief Minister was addressing the gathering at the district-level function held in Gurugram on Monday on the occasion of the 77th Republic Day. He first paid floral tributes to the martyrs at the Veer Shaheedi Memorial and then unfurled the National Flag. The Chief Minister inspected the parade and took the salute from various contingents, including Haryana Police, Women Police, Home Guards and Scouts.

Sh. Nayab Singh Saini began his address by paying homage to the immortal martyrs, freedom fighters, the chief architect of the Constitution, Baba Saheb Dr. BR Ambedkar, and all members of the Constituent Assembly. He said that Republic Day, imbued with the spirit of Vande Mataram and the resolve of Aatmanirbhar Bharat, reminds us of the nation’s unity, cultural pride and self-reliance. Despite its diversity, our nation has always remained united, a glimpse of which is reflected in the glorious celebrations marking 150 years of Vande Mataram. Advancing steadily on the path of self-reliance, India today is creating a new identity on the global map, which is a matter of pride and inspiration for every citizen.

Republic Day—Remembrance of the past and a pledge for a bright future

The Chief Minister said Republic Day is not only a festival of remembering the past, but also a grand occasion to envision the golden picture of our present and future that we have collectively shaped over the last 11 years. He said for decades, governments changed but the system did not. With the objective of systemic transformation, the government had taken 217 resolutions in its manifesto during the last Assembly elections. Of these, 54 resolutions have been fulfilled within just one year, while work on the remaining 163 is progressing rapidly. He said that today Haryana’s policies such as “bina parchi-bina kharchi” recruitment, online registry system, transparent online transfer policy, educated panchayats and the Antyodaya initiative are being discussed across the country, presenting a strong and transparent image of the new Haryana.

Haryana’s significant contribution to national progress

The Chief Minister said that Haryana has a significant contribution to the nation’s progress. He stated that although Haryana accounts for only 1.34 percent of the country’s total geographical area and 2.09 percent of its population, it contributes 3.7 percent to the national GDP. With a per capita income of Rs. 3.53 lakh, Haryana ranks first among the major states of the country. Haryana is also ranked first in per capita GST collection and is included in the Top Achievers category in the State Ease of Doing Business rankings. The state ranks second in the country and first in North India in providing better logistics facilities to industries. Haryana is also the leading state in winning the highest number of medals in the Olympics and other international sporting events.

Haryana becomes the first choice of domestic and global investors

Sh. Nayab Singh Saini said that it is the result of the government’s incentive schemes that Haryana has today become the first choice of investors from India and abroad. Over the past 11 years, 12.92 lakh micro, small and medium enterprises have been established in the state, generating employment for around 49 lakh people. He said that industries are the backbone of the economy and a major source of employment; therefore, Ease of Doing Business has been strengthened by eliminating outdated rules and complex procedures. Today, more than 150 services are available online for investors, and all approvals are being ensured within 12 days. He added that with the objective of regional balance, industrial development is being promoted across the state—Maruti Suzuki’s largest plant is coming up in IMT Kharkhoda, along with a Suzuki Motorcycle plant and an alloy wheel plant of the Uno Minda Group. Gurugram has emerged as a global hub for IT and startups, where a township is being developed over 1,000 acres under the Global City Project. Logistics hubs are being developed in Narnaul, a manufacturing cluster in Hisar, and an electronics park in Sohna.

Decisive steps towards a secure future for youth

The Chief Minister said that the government is fully committed to securing the future of youth and has translated its promises into action. He informed that with the formation of the new Council of Ministers, 24,000 youths were given government jobs on October 17, 2024. In the last one year, a total of 34,000 youths have been provided employment, while over the past 11 years this figure has reached 1.80 lakh. He said that the government has not limited itself to government jobs alone, but has also focused on job security by enacting a law to secure the future of youths working under the Haryana Kaushal Rozgar Nigam. To make youth employment-oriented, 1.14 lakh youths have been provided skill training. To effectively curb the problem of the “Donkey route,” a Bill was passed in the Assembly on March 26, 2025 and enacted into law to ensure strict action against illegal and fraudulent travel agents.

Government empowering women economically, socially and educationally

The Chief Minister said that without the participation of women, the vision of ‘Viksit Bharat-Viksit Haryana’ remains incomplete. He said this is the decade of women power, which will shape the direction of the nation and the state; therefore, it is essential that women are healthy, safe and economically empowered. With this vision, the government has effectively implemented several schemes on the ground to make women self-reliant. Under the Deendayal Lado Lakshmi scheme, 8.64 lakh women are being provided Rs. 2,100 per month, and Rs. 441 crore has already been disbursed. To provide relief to poor women, 15 lakh families are being given gas cylinders at Rs. 500. He said that 50 percent representation has been ensured for women in Panchayati Raj institutions, and 2.34 lakh women have been made Lakhpati Didis. Initiatives such as the Drone Didi scheme, operation of ration depots, Atal Kisan Mazdoor Canteens and Vita centres by women self-help groups, women-led startups reaching 50 percent participation, 131 women cultural centres, and free facilities in higher education all reflect the government’s strong commitment towards women empowerment.

Strong law and order—the foundation of a safe Haryana

The Chief Minister said that strong law and order is the first prerequisite for the progress of any state, and therefore, the safety of life and property of every citizen is the government’s top priority. He said that effective initiatives such as Operation Track Town, Operation Clean and Prahari have created an atmosphere of fear among criminals. Under Operation Hotspot Domination, launched from December 1, more than 2,200 criminals have been arrested, effectively curbing drug trafficking and illegal activities. Additionally, under the Drug-Free Haryana campaign conducted last year, over 6,000 arrests were made and illegal property worth around Rs. 12 crore belonging to drug traffickers was seized, reflecting the government’s firm commitment towards a safe and strong Haryana.

Farmers being made progressive through farmer-friendly policies and innovations

The Chief Minister said that the interests of farmers are the government’s highest priority. He stated that Haryana is the only state in the country where all crops are being procured at Minimum Support Price, under which Rs. 1.64 lakh crore has been directly credited to the accounts of 12 lakh farmers so far. For timely compensation in case of crop damage, the e-Kshatipurti portal has been launched, through which compensation amounting to Rs. 15,448 crore has been provided over the past 11 years. He said that farmers have been given relief by abolishing Abiana, implementing the Agricultural Land Lease Act, and enacting strict laws against spurious fertilizers, seeds and pesticides. Agriculture is being modernized through technologies such as drones, remote sensing, AI-based decision systems and digital farming, which progressive farmers have adopted through structures like net houses and polyhouses.

Gurugram—the city of Guru Dronacharya: a confluence of education and modernity

The Chief Minister said that he was honoured to hoist the National Flag on Republic Day in Gurugram, the city of Guru Dronacharya. Gurugram is a city where the teachings of Guru Dronacharya blend seamlessly with modern technology. The presence of over 250 Fortune-500 companies and a strong startup ecosystem is proof that with the right policies and strong intent, extraordinary achievements are possible. This success of Gurugram as a major hub for IT, BPOs, startups and the automobile industry is the result of the hard work and participation of its citizens, for which the Chief Minister extended heartfelt congratulations to all residents of Gurugram.

On the occasion, the Chief Minister announced an incentive amount of Rs. 11 lakh for the school students who presented cultural performances and also declared a holiday in all schools on January 27. The Chief Minister also honoured the dependents of martyrs and individuals who have made notable contributions in various fields.

Various winners who participated in the event honoured

At the closing ceremony, prizes were awarded by the Chief Minister for the march-past parade and cultural programmes. In the march-past parade, the Women Police contingent from Madhuban, Gurugram Police (men), and NCC (Girls) contingents were honoured. Under the cultural programmes, the Haryanvi folk dance presented by Government Model Sanskriti Senior Secondary School, Sushant Lok Sector-43; the Rajasthani folk dance presented by Government Model Senior Secondary School, Sector-4/7; and the Shivleela presented by Government Model Senior Secondary School, Arjun Nagar were awarded. Among the departmental tableaux, Traffic Police Gurugram, District Horticulture Department, and the Women and Child Development Department secured first, second and third positions respectively, and were awarded by the Chief Minister.

Present on the occasion were Gurugram Deputy Commissioner Ajay Kumar, Police Commissioner Vikas Kumar Arora, District and Sessions Judge Vani Gopal Sharma, ADGP Law and Order Sanjay Singh, ADGP CID Saurabh Singh, Chief Minister’s Media Advisor Rajeev Jaitly, Additional Director, Information, Public Relations and Languages Department, Haryana, Ranbir Sangwan, along with other dignitaries.

Chandigarh, January 26

On the occasion of the 77th Republic Day, an ‘At Home’ programme was organised at Haryana Lok Bhawan on Monday. Haryana Governor Prof. Ashim Kumar Ghosh and Chief Minister Sh. Nayab Singh Saini attended the programme and extended Republic Day greetings to the people of the state. Haryana’s First Lady Smt. Mitra Ghosh and the Chief Minister’s wife Smt. Suman Saini were also present on the occasion.

The ‘At Home’ programme commenced with the rendition of the National Anthem. Patriotic songs were played during the programme, and it concluded with the National Song.

On this occasion, Speaker of the Haryana Vidhan Sabha Sh. Harvinder Kalyan, Energy Minister Sh. Anil Vij, Education Minister Sh. Mahipal Dhanda, Cooperation Minister Dr. Arvind Sharma, and Member of Parliament Sh. Naveen Jindal were also present.

Besides them, former Army Chief Sh. V.P. Malik; senior IAS officers Sh. Vineet Garg, Sh. A.K. Singh, Sh. Anurag Agarwal, Sh. Vijayendra Kumar, Sh. Pankaj Aggarwal, Sh. Mohammed Shayin, Dr. Amit Kumar Agrawal; UT Chandigarh Chief Secretary Sh. H. Rajesh Prasad; Smt. Ashima Brar; Chandigarh Home Secretary Sh. Mandeep Singh Brar; Dr. Saket Kumar; Secretary to the Governor Sh. D.K. Behera; Sh. Aditya Dahiya; Sh. Vinay Pratap Singh; Smt. Priyanka Soni; Dr. Shaleen; Deputy Commissioner, Panchkula, Sh. Satpal Sharma; along with other officers and IPS officers were present.

Also present were Vice-Chancellor of Dada Lakhmi Chand State University of Performing and Visual Arts, Rohtak, Dr. Amit Arya, and Vice-Chancellor of Chaudhary Charan Singh Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar, Sh. B.R. Kamboj.

Chandigarh January 25, 2026:

The Punjab Vigilance Bureau (VB) during its ongoing drive against the corruption in the state, has apprehended Head Constable Ramesh Kumar, posted at CIA Khanna, red-handed while accepting a bribe of Rs. 5 lakh 20 thousand.

Disclosing this here today, an official spokesperson of the state VB said the above-mentioned accused has been arrested based on a complaint lodged by a resident of Master Colony Khanna, district Ludhiana.

He said that the complainant  is engaged in the business of property dealing and  complained that  accused Head Constable Ramesh Kumar met him and alleged that the complainant was involved in gambling activities. Accused told the complainant that Narpinderpal Singh, CIA In-charge Khanna, had called him.  The complainant stated that he was not involved in any such work, he was forced to contact the CIA In-charge.

The spokesperson added that the complainant went to the office and met CIA In-charge Narpinderpal Singh, who accused the complainant of engaging in betting and illegal lottery activities and demanded Rs. 5 lakh through Head Constable Ramesh Kumar. He also threatened to arrest the complainant after registering a false case against him.

Furthermore, he said that the complainant, under compulsion, arranged Rs. 2,20,000/- and attempted to give it to Ramesh Kumar at the house of his acquaintance Dinesh Kumar at Khanna, but the money was returned with the statement that the entire amount of Rs. 5 lakh was required.

Thereafter, during a conversation with Head Constable Ramesh Kumar, the bribe amount was increased from Rs. 5 lakh to Rs. 5 lakh 20 thousand. The complainant did not want to pay the bribe, due to which he contacted the Vigilance Bureau Unit, Hoshiarpur. Subsequently, a case was registered against Narpinderpal Singh, In-charge CIA Khanna and Head Constable Ramesh Kumar.

After a preliminary enquiry on his complaint, the VB team laid a trap during which the accused was arrested red handed while accepting  bribe money of Rs 5.2 lakh from the complainant in presence of two official witnesses.

The Vigilance Bureau has formed various teams and is conducting raids at the residence and other locations of Narpinderpal Singh, In-charge CIA Khanna, to arrest him soon.

In this regard, a case under prevention of corruption act has been registered against the accused at VB police station Ludhiana and further investigation into this case is under progress.

Chandigarh:

Punjab Health and Family Welfare Minister Dr. Balbir Singh today led the registration drive under Mukh Mantri Sehat Yojana at the Civil Hospital in Rajpura, district Patiala, while Transport and Jail Minister S. Laljit Singh Bhullar spearheaded the campaign in Patti town and several surrounding villages. The ministers interacted with residents and informed them about the benefits of the Mukh Mantri Sehat Yojana, under which free treatment up to Rs.10 lakh is being provided. They also explained the complete procedure of making health cards in simple and clear terms.

Dr. Balbir Singh said that this landmark health scheme has been implemented across Punjab from January 22. He informed that around 65 lakh families are being covered under the scheme, benefiting nearly three crore people who will be entitled to free medical treatment up to Rs.10 lakh. He said the Mukh Mantri Sehat Yojana card marks a new beginning and will act as a turning point in strengthening Punjab’s public healthcare system.

The Health Minister informed that no fee is being charged for the issuance of the health card under the scheme. The Mann government has already paid the insurance amount to the insurance company, ensuring that citizens can access advanced healthcare services without any financial burden, said the Cabinet Minister, adding that treatment under the scheme will be available in government hospitals as well as empanelled private hospitals.

Transport and Jail Minister S. Laljit Singh Bhullar said that every family in the state will now be entitled to free treatment up to Rs.10 lakh and economically weaker sections will be able to receive treatment in private hospitals as well.

“This scheme has been designed to ensure that no citizen of Punjab is deprived of quality healthcare due to financial constraints”, he added.

S. Laljit Singh Bhullar further said that all medicines and diagnostic tests will be provided free of cost under the scheme. He informed that specialised treatment facilities will be available in orthopaedics, general medicine, cardiology, neurology, nephrology, urology, oncology and other advanced medical disciplines. He said, the entire cost of hospital treatment along with diagnostic services has been fully covered, adding that this historic initiative of Chief Minister S. Bhagwant Singh Mann-led Punjab Government will play a crucial role in providing quality and free medical services to the people of the state.

Chandigarh January 25, 2026:

The Punjab Vigilance Bureau (VB) during its ongoing drive against the corruption in the state, has apprehended Head Constable Ramesh Kumar, posted at CIA Khanna, red-handed while accepting a bribe of Rs. 5 lakh 20 thousand.

Disclosing this here today, an official spokesperson of the state VB said the above-mentioned accused has been arrested based on a complaint lodged by a resident of Master Colony Khanna, district Ludhiana.

He said that the complainant  is engaged in the business of property dealing and  complained that  accused Head Constable Ramesh Kumar met him and alleged that the complainant was involved in gambling activities. Accused told the complainant that Narpinderpal Singh, CIA In-charge Khanna, had called him.  The complainant stated that he was not involved in any such work, he was forced to contact the CIA In-charge.

The spokesperson added that the complainant went to the office and met CIA In-charge Narpinderpal Singh, who accused the complainant of engaging in betting and illegal lottery activities and demanded Rs. 5 lakh through Head Constable Ramesh Kumar. He also threatened to arrest the complainant after registering a false case against him.

Furthermore, he said that the complainant, under compulsion, arranged Rs. 2,20,000/- and attempted to give it to Ramesh Kumar at the house of his acquaintance Dinesh Kumar at Khanna, but the money was returned with the statement that the entire amount of Rs. 5 lakh was required.

Thereafter, during a conversation with Head Constable Ramesh Kumar, the bribe amount was increased from Rs. 5 lakh to Rs. 5 lakh 20 thousand. The complainant did not want to pay the bribe, due to which he contacted the Vigilance Bureau Unit, Hoshiarpur. Subsequently, a case was registered against Narpinderpal Singh, In-charge CIA Khanna and Head Constable Ramesh Kumar.

After a preliminary enquiry on his complaint, the VB team laid a trap during which the accused was arrested red handed while accepting  bribe money of Rs 5.2 lakh from the complainant in presence of two official witnesses.

The Vigilance Bureau has formed various teams and is conducting raids at the residence and other locations of Narpinderpal Singh, In-charge CIA Khanna, to arrest him soon.

In this regard, a case under prevention of corruption act has been registered against the accused at VB police station Ludhiana and further investigation into this case is under progress.

HOSHIARPUR, 25th January 2026:

Inaugurating eco-friendly huts at Saleran Dam to give a major push to eco-tourism and job creation in the state, Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann on Sunday said the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government is increasing employment by developing Punjab’s tourism destinations. He said that film shoots and destination weddings at Amritsar, Patiala and Chimraud Lake have also led to a rise in employment opportunities, adding that the Saleran Dam project will compete with tourism destinations of Himachal Pradesh.

The Chief Minister said the AAP government has revived 52 rest houses that had turned into ruins and that they are now generating ₹1 crore in monthly rental revenue. He said previous governments sold government properties to their friends at throwaway prices, but the present government has recovered those assets.

Interacting with media persons after inaugurating the Saleran Dam Eco-Tourism Project, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “Today we have inaugurated the Saleran Dam Eco-Tourism Project to further strengthen tourism infrastructure in the state. Earlier, the Chohal Dam project has been running successfully, and this new initiative will add another attractive destination for tourists.”

The Chief Minister said the project has been conceived at a cost of ₹2.80 crore and is expected to generate more than ₹18 lakh in annual revenue. “This project will attract tourists to the area, create job opportunities for local youth and significantly boost their income,” he added.

Highlighting the facilities created under the project, the Chief Minister said, “A special playground spread over 16,000 square feet has been constructed for children, with a multi-play station and other recreational activities.” He further said, “Four eco huts have been constructed for tourists to stay, and a cafeteria with seating capacity for 80 people has also been built.”

CM Bhagwant Singh Mann added that a large amphitheatre has been developed to enjoy the scenic views of Saleran Dam, noting that “this project will prove highly significant in giving a major fillip to eco tourism in Punjab.”

The Chief Minister said the project has been developed with a focus on environmental sensitivity and awareness. “Environment-friendly tourism and recreational infrastructure has been created, keeping ecological balance in mind,” he said, adding that the Punjab government is making sustained efforts to promote tourism in the kandi belt of Punjab. “There is immense potential in these areas, and they can be developed as ideal tourist destinations to attract visitors from across the globe,” he said.

Lamenting the neglect of these regions in the past, the CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “Due to the negligence of successive state governments, these areas remained ignored in the development process.” He said the government is now harnessing the untapped tourism potential of these areas known for their natural beauty. “Strenuous efforts are already underway to develop the entire region so that tourism in the state gets a major boost,” he added.

The Chief Minister said the region is blessed with abundant natural resources capable of drawing tourists from across the country and abroad. “Promotion of economic activity in this region is the need of the hour, as it will help transform the lives of the people,” he said.

Expressing confidence in the future, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “The day is not far when, after improving infrastructure, this region will emerge as a major tourist hub. These areas can act as a catalyst in placing Punjab firmly on the international tourism map.”

Referring to steps taken by his government to revive tourism infrastructure, the Chief Minister said, “The state government has revived 75 abandoned rest houses, which are now fetching revenue of around ₹1 crore.” He said more such projects will be launched in the coming days to benefit people and attract nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts. “Restaurants are also being developed along rivers for public convenience, whereas during previous regimes these assets were sold off to people close to those in power,” he said.

CM Bhagwant Singh stated the overarching objective is to give a strong push to the tourism sector by developing these areas in a planned and befitting manner. He also said, “Punjab’s tableau, showcasing the supreme sacrifice of Sri Guru Teg Bahadur ji, will be part of the Republic Day parade in New Delhi.”

Reiterating the government’s broader governance agenda, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “Since day one in office in 2022, our government has been working tirelessly for the welfare of the people. Initiatives such as Mukh Mantri Sehat Yojna, free power, Aam Aadmi Clinics, education reforms, water at tail ends, construction of rural roads and the Sadak Surakhya Force have been launched.”

On welfare commitments, the Chief Minister said, “The state government will fulfill its promise of giving ₹1,000 to every woman by making provisions in the coming budget.” He expressed hope that the Union government would extend a special package to Punjab in the upcoming Union Budget, saying, “Punjab’s contribution to the nation in every sector deserves recognition.”

Referring to economic and agricultural initiatives, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann noted, “The Punjab government has partnered with Japanese company JICA, which will invest ₹1,300 crore to boost horticulture in Punjab.” He said this would help save precious groundwater while promoting crop diversification.

On law and order, the Chief Minister asserted, “It is ironic that those who patronised gangsters are now questioning the law and order situation.” He said the government has launched campaigns like ‘Yudh Nashean Virudh’ and ‘Gangsteraan te Vaar’ to break the backbone of drug smugglers and gangsters. “We are fully committed to eradicating social evils and building a peaceful, progressive and Rangla Punjab,” he said.

The Chief Minister stated anti-drone technology has been deployed along the border and is yielding encouraging results in checking the inflow of drugs and weapons. “Our aim is to stop cross-border terrorism and narco-terrorism. Punjab is the first state in the country to adopt this technology,” he said, adding that the government is making continuous efforts for the welfare of every section of society.

He said people-friendly schemes are being implemented by plugging leakages and using public funds judiciously. “Our motive is to ensure the progress of the state and prosperity of its people,” Bhagwant Singh Mann said, while adding that “if the Centre releases all the funds stalled by it, development in Punjab can be further accelerated.”

CM Bhagwant Singh Mann was accompanied by Cabinet Minister Barinder Goyal and other senior officials.