Chandigarh, December 25:

Central Civil Services Cultural and Board are organising the All India Services Table Tennis (Men and Women) tournament from 12th to 16th January 2026 in Table Tennis Hall, Sector-23, Chandigarh. Trails for Punjab teams will be held on 31 December at Polo Ground Patiala at 11:00 am.

The spokesman of the sports department further informed that in these trials security services personnel/para-security organizations/central police organizations/police/RPF/CISF/BSF/ITBP and NSG etc., autonomous parties/undertakings/public sector Banks including central ministry run banks, excluding casual/daily workers, temporary office workers, newly recruited employees who have been in regular services for less than 6 months, Government employees (regular), government officials (regular) of different departments can participate only after receiving NoC from their departments. The cost of travel, accommodation and food in this tournament will be paid by the player personally.

Chandigarh, 25 December 2025:

Hon’ble Cabinet Minister for Industries & Commerce, Investment Promotion and NRI Affairs, Government of Punjab, Sh. Sanjeev Arora, met Hon’ble Union Minister for Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises, Sh. Jitan Ram Manjhi, in New Delhi on July 21, 2025, and sought urgent support for strengthening Punjab’s MSME ecosystem, with special emphasis on the sports goods sector clustered in Jalandhar.

During the meeting, Sh. Sanjeev Arora highlighted that Punjab’s sports goods industry has significant export potential, but continues to face key challenges related to technology upgradation, product development, testing facilities, and compliance with global quality standards. He specifically urged the Ministry to approve the establishment of a Technology Extension Centre (TEC) of the Process cum Product Development Centre (PPDC), Meerut, at Jalandhar—a proposal that had been pending with the Ministry of MSME for over eight months, despite the State Government having already provided the required infrastructure.

Acceding to the request, the Ministry of MSME, Government of India, on December 18, 2025, issued an official communication through the Principal Director, Sh. Aditya Prakash Sharma, calling for the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) and execution of the lease deed for setting up the approved Technology Extension Centre at the Government Institute of Leather and Footwear Technology (GILFT), Jalandhar.

The approval has been accorded under the Hub & Spoke Model, with the TEC to be mentored by PPDC, Meerut. The MoU is scheduled to be signed on January 5, 2026, in Jalandhar.

As per the communication, a total built-up area of 11,166 square feet, spread across the Ground, First and Second Floors of the GILFT building, has already been earmarked for establishment of the centre. The Technology Extension Centre will provide critical support services including advanced product and process development, technology transfer, testing facilitation, skill development, and handholding support to MSMEs, particularly units engaged in sports goods and allied manufacturing.

Welcoming the decision, Sh. Sanjeev Arora thanked the Union MSME Minister for the timely intervention and stated that the Technology Extension Centre would prove to be a game-changer for Punjab’s sports goods sector by enhancing competitiveness, improving quality standards, and boosting exports.

He added that the Punjab Government remains fully committed to extending all necessary support to ensure early operationalisation of the centre.

The initiative reflects strong Centre–State coordination aimed at strengthening MSMEs, promoting innovation-led growth, and reinforcing Punjab’s position as a leading manufacturing and export hub.

CHANDIGARH, December 25:

In a New Year bonanza for the residents of Punjab, the Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann on Thursday gave green signal to the Health department to launch Mukh Mantri Sehat Yojna from the coming month thereby ensuring cashless treatment worth ₹10 lakh to every family in the state.

Reviewing a meeting of the Health department here today, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said Mukh Mantri Sehat Beema Yojna is a step towards providing universal healthcare facilities to people without spending even a penny on it. “This is a step towards providing universal health care and ensuring that people get cashless treatment worth ₹10 lakh. Punjab will be the first state in the country where every family will be entitled to cashless treatment of up to ₹10 lakh,” he said.

The Chief Minister said that Mukh Mantri Sehat Yojna is a flagship health assurance initiative of the Government of Punjab aimed at providing financial protection and assured access to quality healthcare to all eligible residents of the State. “The scheme is a major step towards universal health coverage, under which each enrolled family is entitled to cashless medical treatment up to ₹10 lakh per year,” he added.

CM Bhagwant Singh Mann noted, “The scheme covers major illnesses, critical care, surgeries, and life-saving treatments at a wide network of empanelled Government and Private hospitals across Punjab and Chandigarh, ensuring equitable access to healthcare services.”

The Chief Minister said that the key objective is to ensure cashless and paperless healthcare at empanelled hospitals and to reduce out-of-pocket expenditure on secondary and tertiary healthcare. “Likewise, it will strengthen equitable access to healthcare services across urban and rural areas and provide timely grievance redressal and beneficiary support through digital platforms,” he added.

CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said that all the expenses like Hospitalisation costs, Surgeries and medical procedures, ICU and critical care services, Diagnostics, medicines, and consumables as per approved packages, Pre- and post-hospitalisation expenses and others will be covered under it.

The Chief Minister said that, earlier, a family could avail treatment only up to ₹5 lakh but now this limit has been increased to ₹10 lakh adding that every citizen of Punjab will be entitled to free healthcare, whether they are government employees or pensioners adding that there will be no income limit under this scheme. “Under this scheme, any citizen can avail free treatment at any government hospital or empanelled private hospital adding that now, no citizen of Punjab will have to forgo treatment due to financial constraints.  The Health department to make the necessary arrangements for the smooth launch of this scheme for the well being of people,” said CM Bhagwant Singh Mann.

Chandigarh, December 25, 2025:

Cabinet Minister Sanjeev Arora today said that Punjab has attracted ₹1.50 lakh crore (approximately USD 19 billion) in investments since the formation of the AAP Government, resulting in the generation of more than five lakh employment opportunities across the State. He said this reflects the Government’s firm commitment to making Punjab a preferred destination for investors and a leading industrial hub. Major Investments announce for Punjab in last 5 months are

HPCL Mittal Energy Limited (HMEL) – ₹2,600 Crores, Vardhman Steels- ₹3,000 Crores, Trident Group – ₹2,000 Crores, IOL Chemicals & Pharmaceuticals Limited – ₹1,400 Crores, Happy Forgings Limited – ₹1,000 Crores, Veerka Beverages Private Limited – ₹987 Crores, Fortis Healthcare (Mohali) – ₹900 Crores, Amber Enterprises India Limited – ₹500 Crores, Infosys Limited – ₹285 crore, Toppan Speciality Films Pvt. Ltd – ₹300–400 Crores.

Highlighting the future roadmap, the Minister informed that the 6th Progressive Punjab Investors Summit-2026 will be held from March 13 to 15, 2026, at Mohali, which is expected to provide a major boost to the State’s industrial ecosystem.

He stated that the recent Japan and South Korea visits to Tokya, Osaka & Seoul were highly successful, and significant fresh investments are expected following the overseas outreach, opening new avenues for foreign entrepreneurs. To further facilitate investments, the State Government is ensuring that all industrial approvals are granted within a timeline of 5 to 45 days.

Punjab has been awarded “Top Achiever” status under the Business Reforms Action Plan (BRAP)-2024 by the Government of India, he added. In a major relief to industry and traders, the State has introduced a single 0.25% stamp duty on the total loan amount, covering all related instruments and capped at ₹5 lakh. Additionally, the registration fee on Equitable Mortgage has been reduced from ₹1,00,000 to ₹1,000.

The Minister said that the Government has launched RTB Act 2.0 on the Punjab Invest portal, further enhancing ease of doing business by enabling consolidated approvals starting from as early as 5 days. He added that the compliance burden has been significantly reduced by simplifying, digitising, decriminalising and rationalising 833 G2B and 1,702 G2C compliances.

Amendments to the Punjab Right to Business Act, 2020 now allow eligible enterprises to commence or expand operations based on self-declaration, with In-Principle approvals issued within 5 to 18 days. About 2,000 units have already been granted such approvals. The CLU process has also been simplified by removing the requirement for standalone industries in permissible zones.

The Minister further stated that 24 specialised Sectoral Committees have been constituted to ensure robust industry consultation for the upcoming sector-specific industrial policy. Each committee is chaired by a prominent industrialist from the respective sector. All committee reports have been submitted, and a new, robust Industrial Policy is on the anvil and will be released by January 2026.

He added that the Government launched the “Rising Punjab – Suggestions to Solutions” series across Mohali, Bathinda, Amritsar, Jalandhar, Ludhiana, Gobindgarh and Khanna, enabling direct industry participation in policy formulation. Outreach delegations led by the Chief Minister were conducted in New Delhi, Gurugram, Bengaluru, Chennai and Hyderabad.

Punjab offers attractive incentives under the existing policy, including SGST reimbursement, exemptions from electricity duty and stamp duty, and special incentives for MSMEs. Fiscal incentives amounting to ₹29,933 crore have been issued to 1,145 units since March 2022.

Concluding, the Minister said that addressing a long-pending industry demand of nearly three decades, an OTS Scheme has been approved for existing allottees with 100% waiver of penal interest and 8% simple interest, along with policies for leasehold-to-freehold conversion, plot fragmentation, subdivision and reorganisation, and the constitution of an appellate authority for grievance redressal.

Chandigarh, December 24: Union Home Minister Sh. Amit Shah today unveiled a 41-ft tall bronze statue of Bharat Ratna and former Prime Minister of India, late Sh. Atal Bihari Vajpayee at Atal Park, MDC Sector-1, Panchkula, on the eve of his birth anniversary. Chief Minister Sh. Nayab Singh Saini and BJP State President Sh. Mohan Lal Badoli were also present on the occasion.

The statue, including a 15-ft high pedestal, has a total height of 56 feet from the Natural Ground Level (NGL) and was completed in a span of just 25 days by the Panchkula Metropolitan Development Authority (PMDA). It is the tallest and grandest statue of any prominent leader in Tricity. Crafted in bronze, the statue has been designed with high durability and aesthetic precision. 

Atal Park, where the statue has been installed, is being developed by the Panchkula Metropolitan Development Authority (PMDA) over an approximate area of 20,786 square metres in Sector-1, MDC, Panchkula. The park is envisioned as a prominent public space dedicated to the ideals, vision and legacy of Late Sh. Atal Bihari Vajpayee. A video presentation on the features of Atal Park was also shown on the occasion.

As part of the project, the park is being developed with comprehensive facilities including an entrance plaza with a grand gate, an Atal Gallery, Rang Manch/Open Air Theatre, food kiosks, toilet blocks and an information office block. Special emphasis has been laid on thematic and wellness-based zones such as Bal Vigyan Vanaya Vatika, envisioned as a children’s science and wildlife garden, Yog Vatika developed as a fitness park, Ayurveda Vatika showcasing medicinal plants, Sugandh Vatika designed as a fragrance garden, Kalakriti Vatika focusing on artistic expressions, and Sanskritic Vatika developed as a heritage garden. The park will also feature a dedicated leisure zone, decorative electrical LED lighting, CCTV surveillance for safety and security, along with comprehensive external development works.

The unveiling of the statue marks a significant milestone in honouring the life and contributions of the former Prime Minister, who is remembered for his statesmanship, visionary leadership and commitment to national unity and democratic values.

Prior to this, Union Home Minister Sh. Amit Shah went around a specially curated exhibition on Sh. Atal Bihari Vajpayee and his deep association with Haryana at the BJP office ‘Panchkamal’. He also paid floral tributes to the former Prime Minister.

The exhibition highlights key milestones of Atal Bihari Vajpayee’s public life, his contribution to nation-building and his enduring connection with Haryana, offering visitors an insightful glimpse into his political journey, governance philosophy and legacy.

On the occasion, Sh. Amit Shah also virtually inaugurated 250 Atal e-Libraries across the state, aimed at promoting a culture of reading and knowledge-sharing, particularly among the youth.

In addition, the Union Home Minister also released a Coffee Table Book on Sh. Atal Bihari Vajpayee, which documents his life, leadership, and enduring impact on Indian politics.

Chandigarh, December 24 –  A grand and historic passing out parade of the Haryana Police Recruit Basic Course (RBC) Batch-93 was held at Tau Devi Lal Stadium, Panchkula. Union Home and Cooperation Minister Sh Amit Shah graced the occasion as the chief guest, while Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini attended as the guest of honour.

On this momentous occasion, 5,061 newly trained constables formally joined the Haryana Police after taking an oath of discipline, loyalty, and public service. The impressive display of parade drills, discipline, and coordination made the ceremony memorable. This batch is regarded as the largest group of police recruits to take the oath collectively in the country.

Union Home and Cooperation Minister Amit Shah took the salute at the passing out parade. His inspiring presence gave the ceremony a distinct national significance and infused the newly inducted personnel with enthusiasm, confidence, and a renewed commitment to duty. Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini, senior police and administrative officers, and other distinguished guests were also present, further enhancing the dignity of the event.

Haryana Director General of Police O.P. Singh conducted the parade inspection for the Union Home Minister and briefed him on the training modules and activities undertaken by the recruits. The oath-taking ceremony was administered by Dr Arshinder Singh Chawla, Director of the Haryana Police Academy, Madhuban.

Welcoming Union Home Minister Amit Shah, Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini said that his presence had made the occasion historic and provided fresh inspiration to the police personnel for national service. He described the day as a celebration of national service, dedication to duty, and patriotism, adding that it was a proud moment not only for the newly trained personnel but also for their parents and the people of Haryana. With 5,061 recruits, this passing out parade is the largest of its kind in the country to date.

The Chief Minister stated that under the guidance of Prime Minister Sh Narendra Modi and the leadership of Union Home Minister Sh Amit Shah, India’s internal security framework has been strengthened like never before. Decisive action against terrorism, a firm crackdown on Naxalism, and strengthened border security, he said, are outcomes of strong political will and visionary leadership.

He said that “security, good governance, and sensitivity” are no longer mere slogans but have become an integral part of administrative culture. The integration of technology, modern training methods, and a humane approach has set new benchmarks for law and order. Zero tolerance towards crime and respect for citizens, he said, are becoming defining features of the Haryana Police.

The Chief Minister informed that the new recruits have received specialized training in the three new criminal laws, cybercrime investigation, and cybersecurity. He expressed pride that Haryana is among the leading states in the country to implement these laws within a short timeframe. Highlighting the drug-free Haryana campaign, he said the role of the Haryana Police is crucial, and the 5,061 recruits graduating today will serve as “brand ambassadors” in spreading awareness and a positive message against drug abuse across society.

Recalling Haryana’s legacy of bravery and dedication to duty, the Chief Minister said this tradition is reflected in the excellence of the Haryana Police, which is counted among the country’s leading police forces. He also said that on February 14, 2023, the Haryana Police was awarded the prestigious ‘President’s Colour’ in Karnal, recognizing the force’s outstanding service to the nation.

Addressing the gathering, the Chief Minister said that on the auspicious occasion of the birth anniversary of former Prime Minister of India and Bharat Ratna, late Sh Atal Bihari Vajpayee, the disciplined and dedicated personnel of the Haryana Police conveyed an inspiring message of service, commitment, and national spirit by participating in the Atal Jan Seva Marathon.

He informed that at the time of the formation of the government in 2014, women police personnel constituted only 3 percent of the Haryana Police force. Through sustained efforts and strong policy decisions, this figure has increased to 15 percent by 2024. Recalling the commitment made in the election manifesto during the previous Assembly elections, the Chief Minister said the state government had pledged to further enhance women’s representation in the police force as part of its focus on women’s empowerment. Continuing in this direction, he informed that the state government will soon recruit 6,000 new police personnel, ensuring the appointment of approximately 1,500 women police personnel. He said this initiative would mark a significant milestone in making the Haryana Police more inclusive, empowered, and sensitive to the needs of society.

The Chief Minister extended his best wishes to the newly trained recruits for a bright future marked by courage, integrity, and exemplary service to the nation. He congratulated all officials and instructors for their dedication and tireless efforts in training the batch and expressed his sincere gratitude to the Union Home Minister for gracing the occasion.

In this batch, women trainees distinguished themselves through exceptional dedication, discipline, and outstanding performance. Nishu from Jind secured the first position as the overall topper, while Mohit from Gurugram secured the second position. Manjeet Chahal from Hisar secured the third position and also won the Best Outdoor Trophy, setting a remarkable example of excellence. These achievements highlight the strong participation of women, equal opportunities, and growing leadership capabilities within the Haryana Police. Rubal from Sonipat secured the fourth position, and Amit Kumar from Kurukshetra secured the fifth position.

Recruit Basic Course Batch No. 93 stands as a powerful symbol of the Haryana Police’s efficiency, discipline, and unwavering commitment to public service. With 5,061 trained recruits, this batch is the largest to take the oath collectively in the history of the Indian Police. During 39 weeks of rigorous training, the recruits received comprehensive practical instruction in law and order, cybercrime, forensics, human rights, community policing, and citizen-sensitive policing in accordance with the new criminal justice system. In addition to their professional training, this young and educated batch demonstrated a strong sense of social responsibility. On April 9, 2025, the recruits voluntarily donated 1,356 units of blood in a single day, setting an inspiring example of humanitarian service and reinforcing the people-centric ethos of the Haryana Police.

The ceremony was also attended by Haryana Chief Secretary Anurag Rastogi, Additional Chief Secretary (Home) Sumita Misra, Director General of Police O.P. Singh, Director of the Haryana Police Academy Arshinder Singh Chawla, along with several other senior officers and dignitaries.

Chandigarh, Dec 24 – Union Home and Cooperation Minister, Sh Amit Shah, on Wednesday once again praised Haryana Chief Minister Sh Nayab Singh Saini, stating that under his leadership, government jobs in the state are being provided to youth strictly on the basis of merit through a transparent and fair process, without any kharchi-parchi.

Sh Amit Shah was addressing the gathering after inspecting the grand and historic passing out parade of the Haryana Police Recruit Basic Course (RBC) Batch-93 held in Panchkula.

On the occasion, he lauded the state government’s transparent recruitment system and said it has strengthened public trust in governance.