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.

Chandigarh, December 24 — Haryana Chief Minister, Sh. Nayab Singh Saini said that the  supreme sacrifice of Sri Guru Gobind Singh Ji’s Sahibzadas stands as an enduring example of courage, faith, and self-respect for all humanity. Baba Zorawar Singh Ji and Baba Fateh Singh Ji chose the path of truth and righteousness over oppression and temptation, demonstrating that the spirit of India can never be defeated by fear.

The Chief Minister was addressing a state-level programme in Panchkula on the occasion of Veer Bal Diwas. Union Home and Cooperation Minister, Sh. Amit Shah attended the event as the Chief Guest. Prior to the event, both Sh. Amit Shah and Sh.Nayab Singh Saini visited an exhibition dedicated to the sacrifice of the young Sahibzadas.

Sh. Nayab Singh Saini said that today, this sacred land of Panchkula resonates with history, sacrifice, and patriotism. Veer Bal Diwas provides an opportunity to pay homage to the immortal souls who, even in childhood, dedicated their lives to protecting faith, culture, and humanity.

A week of mourning and pride in Indian history

The Chief Minister remarked that the week from 20 to 27 December is one of the most sorrowful yet glorious periods in Indian history, as Sri Guru Gobind Singh Ji’s entire family sacrificed their lives for the protection of dharma and justice. The bravery of the elder Sahibzadas in the Battle of Chamkaur, the indomitable faith of the younger Sahibzadas, and the selfless devotion of Mata Gujri Ji symbolize India’s spiritual strength. This tradition of sacrifice traces back to Sri  Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji, who laid down his life for the protection of the nation and faith.

Observance of Veer Bal Diwas initiated by Prime Minister  to inspire the youth

The Chief Minister said that the Prime Minister, Sh. Narendra Modi initiated the observance of  Veer Bal Diwas to inspire the younger generation with the courage, sacrifice, and moral strength of the Sahibzadas. This day teaches us that the foundation of the nation is strengthened by values, ethics, and character. Veer Bal Diwas is not merely a day of remembrance but also motivates youth to follow the path of truth, righteousness, and national interest, he said.

Union Home Minister strengthens the nation as a vigilant guardian of unity and integrity

Welcoming Union Home Minister,  Sh. Amit Shah, the Chief Minister said that he has infused the nation with renewed strength as a vigilant guardian of security, unity, and integrity. From decisive actions against terrorism to safeguarding borders and confronting forces challenging national unity, he has fortified India on every front. His clear vision, unwavering determination, and fearless decision-making have become hallmarks of contemporary India, proving that strong leadership can turn the impossible into possible.

The Chief Minister expressed confidence that under his guidance, the nation will scale even greater heights. He added that the presence and guidance of Sh. Amit Shah on such a sacred occasion of Veer Bal Diwas demonstrates that India does not merely remember its martyrs but draws inspiration from their sacrifices for nation-building.

The Chief Minister further said  that during the event, Sh. Amit Shah unveiled the statue of Bharat Ratna Sh. Atal Bihari Vajpayee, released a coffee table book on his life, inaugurated a blood donation camp, launched the Haryana Vision Document–2047, distributed appointment letters to 1984 riot-affected families, and released a coffee table book on the lives of the Sahibzadas, paying true homage to their values and ideals.

He said  that today, from Panchkula, a message will go across the nation that India never forgets its martyrs. The sacrifice of the Sahibzadas teaches that surrendering to injustice is never an option. Their lives and sacrifices serve as lessons in character, courage, and inner strength for today’s youth.

Speaker, Haryana Vidhan Sabha, Sh. Harvinder Kalyan, Cabinet Ministers, Sh. Anil Vij, Rao Narbir Singh, Sh. Mahipal Dhanda, Sh. Shyam Singh Rana, Dr. Arvind Sharma, Rajya Sabha MP Smt. Rekha Sharma, Kalka MLA Smt. Shakti Rani Sharma, and other dignitaries were present on the occasion.

Chandigarh 24 December 2025:

Punjab Vidhan Sabha Speaker S. Kultar Singh Sandhwan extended heartfelt greetings to the people of Punjab on the occasion of Christmas. He added Christmas is a festival of  tranquility, compassion, love, kindness and forgiveness.

He said God may bring peace, happiness and prosperity in the life of Punjabis. Almight may fulfill all the dreams of Punjabis. We should follow the path shown by Jesus Christ in our life.

Chandigarh | December 24, 2025
In the Chandigarh Youth Football League for State Championship organized by the Chandigarh Football Association (CFA), Sandhu FC’s Under-15 team delivered a stellar performance, securing a crucial 2-1 victory against Vivek FC.
In this thrilling match played at the Sector-46 Sports Complex, Ruhan of Vivek FC scored the first goal in the 27th minute, giving his team the lead. Garnav of Sandhu FC scored the equalizer in the 37th minute, while Arnav scored the decisive goal in the 50th minute, securing the win for his team. In the same category, St. Stephen’s FC defeated St. John’s FC 1-0. The only goal of the match was scored by Ankesh in the 31st minute.
In other Under-15 matches, Velocity FC defeated Saffron Arrows FC 3-2. Anurag (10th minute), Ayush (20th minute), and Raj (25th minute) scored for the winning team, while Harman (38th minute) and Riyaz (43rd minute) scored for Saffron Arrows. Banyan Tree FC defeated Burail FC 1-0. The only goal of the match was scored by Duranjay.
In the Under-13 category, Sandhu FC also defeated Vivek FC 2-0. Bidyaraj scored in the 12th minute and Abhidash in the 22nd minute. Saffron Arrows FC defeated United-39 4-0. Agnish, Kriday, and Vivan scored one goal each, while there was also an own goal by United-39. Rajeshwar FC defeated Vertex FC 3-1. Akshit and Daksh scored one goal each, while there were also two own goals in the match. 3BRD FC thrashed Banyan Tree FC 5-0. Nipun and Ayushman scored two goals each, while Aryan scored one.
Himalayan FC defeated St. Stephen’s FC 3-2. Prince, Tapish, and Parth scored for the winning team. Siraj scored both goals for St. Stephen’s. Tribune FC defeated Sai Baba FC 2-1. Akshit scored two goals, while Dhanoj scored one for Sai Baba.
St. John’s FC defeated Burail FC 1-0. The only goal of the match was scored by Yuvraj in the fourth minute. Royal Greater FC defeated Blue Star FC 5-1. Aarav scored four goals (including a hat-trick) in the 2nd, 11th, 15th, and 27th minutes. Akshit scored for Blue Star in the 26th minute.

Chandigarh, December 24- The Haryana Government has issued fresh instructions to ensure smooth and uninterrupted functioning of administrative work in districts during the absence or vacancy of the Additional Deputy Commissioner (ADC).

According to an order issued by the  Chief Secretary Sh. Anurag Rastogi , District Municipal Commissioners of the concerned districts have been designated as Link Officer-II in situations where the ADC is on leave, training, tour, election duty, or when the post falls vacant due to transfer or retirement.

Chandigarh, December 24 — On the occasion of Good Governance Day, a state-level function will be organized on December 25 at the Public Works Department Rest House located in Sector-1, Panchkula, Haryana. On this occasion, Chief Minister Sh. Nayab Singh Saini will felicitate teams from various departments with the “Haryana Good Governance Award–2025” for outstanding public service, administrative innovation, and technology-based reforms.

On the occasion of Good Governance Day, Chief Secretary Sh. Anurag Rastogi has released the list of departments to be honoured along with the names of officers and employees who played a significant role in implementing the award-winning initiatives.

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Four Flagship Awards for Transformative Initiatives

Four flagship awards will be presented to initiatives that have brought about wide-ranging and effective improvements in governance systems.

The Revenue  will be honoured for its smart, seamless, and paperless initiative, “The Future of Deed Registration.” The award will be received by General Manager (IT) Sandeep Singh, State Chief Stamp Officer Shishan Singh, and Senior Software Developers Nitesh Kumar and Ravi Prakash Singh.

The SEWA will be honoured for the Deen Dayal Lado Lakshmi Yojana. The award will be received by Consultant Shruti Sharma on behalf of the department.

The Housing for All Department will be recognised for its Policy for Allotment of Plots and Flats to Economically Weaker Sections in Licensed Colonies, a significant step towards inclusive and affordable housing. The project team includes Additional Director Ruchi Singh Bedi, Assistant Town Planner Aman Godara, Urban Economic Expert, Mahendra Singh, and State Finance Expert Harpreet Singh.

HARTRON, under the Industries and Commerce Department, will receive a flagship award for its project “Transformation of Skill Development through Future-Oriented Technologies.” The award-winning team comprises Coordinator Mukesh Kumar, Consultant Pulin Singh, Programmer Prerna Suneja, and Data Entry Operator Kapil Kumar.

Five State-Level Awards for Outstanding Projects

State-level awards will be conferred on five innovative projects that have significantly enhanced governance efficiency and public welfare.

The Elementary Education Department will be honoured for its initiative “Padhe Rohtak, Likhe Rohtak.” The award will be received by District Elementary Education Officer Diljeet Singh, District FLN Coordinator Rupanshi Hooda, DEO Rohtak Manjeet Malik, and Principal, DIET Madina, Virender Kumar Malik.

The Haryana School Shiksha Parishad(School Education) will receive a state award for its initiative “Kushal Business Challenge.” The project team includes Joint State Project Director Dr. Mayank Verma, Assistant Project Coordinator Anu Sharma, Associate Consultant Devesh Gupta, and Coordinator Amrish Sharma.

HARTRON, under the Industries and Commerce Department, will also receive a state award for its project “From Menance to Mandate : A Blueprint for E-Waste Governance in Haryana.” The award will be received by Additional Director, Information, Public Relations and Languages Department, Vivek Kalia, along with AGM Kapil Dev, Hardware Assistant Surender, and DEO Meenakshi.

The Revenue Department’s “Har Ghar Chhat” housing initiative will be honoured with a state award. The award will be accepted by Additional Deputy Commissioner Naveen Ahuja, SDO (PR) Rajesh Kumar Sharma, and ASDO (PR) Naresh Kumar Rohilla.

In addition, the Treasury and Accounts Department will receive a state award for the successful implementation of the e-Kuber Payment System across the state. The award-winning team includes Joint Director Mithilesh Kumar Gupta, Section Officer Lakhwinder Singh, Assistant Treasury Officer Ashwani Kumar, and DEO Pinki Sharma.