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RTS Commission Orders Compensation to Consumers for Issuance of Excessive Electricity Bills

Chandigarh, January 14 — The Haryana Right to Service (RTS) Commission has termed the practice of issuing electricity bills on an average basis for a long period and subsequently serving consumers with one-time excessively high bills in cases related to UHBVN as a serious case of administrative negligence.

According to the Commission’s spokesperson, in a case from Bahadurgarh, the Commission found that the consumer either did not receive bills for a long time or was issued negative bills, which were not payable. Thereafter, an electricity bill of approximately Rs. 2.38 lakh was suddenly issued. Even after the complaint was lodged, the rectification was carried out in a phased and incomplete manner, exposing the irresponsible working of the concerned officials. The Commission also observed that the mandatory prior notice and minimum time limits prescribed under the Electricity Supply Code were not followed.

Exercising its penal powers under Section 17(1)(h) of the Haryana Right to Service Act, 2014, the Commission ordered the imposition of a Rs. 5,000 fine on two CA officials responsible for preparing incorrect sundry entries and directed each of them to pay Rs. 1,000 as compensation to the consumer. In addition, the Commission expressed dissatisfaction with the SDO officials who approved the incorrect sundry and directed that their names be recorded in the Commission’s records.

The Commission further ordered that the consumer be paid additional compensation at the rate of Rs. 500 for each billing cycle wrongly issued since July 2022. This amount shall initially be paid by the corporation from its own funds and may later be recovered from the erring agency or officials.

In another case from Hisar district, electricity bills were issued on an average basis in two power accounts of a consumer from March 2020 to February 2024. Earlier, bills used to reflect a bi-monthly consumption of around 160 units, but later, one account suddenly showed consumption of approximately 45,000 units, resulting in a bill of more than Rs. 3 lakh, while the second account reflected consumption of about 20,000 units, leading to a bill of Rs. 98,000. The Commission termed this as imposing an excessive financial burden on the consumer and causing severe mental harassment.

The Commission also found that as per the provisions of the Electricity Supply Code, 2014, neither prior notice was given to the consumer nor the mandatory minimum period of 30 days for payment was allowed. The reasons for the excessive billing were also not clearly explained.

The Commission’s spokesperson stated that the Commission considered the Rs. 1,000 compensation per account awarded by the SGRA to be inadequate. Treating each wrongly issued bill as a separate case, the Commission directed that compensation be paid at the rate of Rs. 500 per incorrect bill for both accounts. This compensation shall initially be paid by DHBVN from its own funds and may subsequently be recovered from the erring agency or officials.

The Commission has directed the concerned officers to determine the exact number of wrongly issued bills in both accounts and to release the compensation at the earliest. The Managing Directors of both power distribution corporations have also been urged once again to formulate a clear policy to deal with such situations.

Millets are not only rich in nutrition but also play a vital role in promoting a healthy lifestyle- Samwartak Singh

Chandigarh, January 14 –  Additional Secretary to Government, Haryana, Secretariat Establishment, Sh. Samwartak Singh, I.A.S. highlighted  the importance of millets (Shri Anna), stating that millets are not only rich in nutrition but also play a vital role in promoting a healthy lifestyle.

Sh. Samwartak Singh was addressing the gathering as the Chief Guest at the inauguration of the Millet Mela organised today at the CISF Camp premises of the Punjab and Haryana Civil Secretariat, Chandigarh.

He said that creating awareness among the general public about balanced and nutritious food through such events is the need of the hour, and the initiative taken by CISF in this direction is commendable.

During the programme, doctors from Dietician Department of PGI Chandigarh, Dr. Kumari Muskan and Dr. Angel Preet provided detailed information to the present officers, CISF personnel and their family members about the consumption of millets, their appropriate quantity and also emphasized on the health benefits of millets. The doctors explained that regular consumption of millets in balanced quantities helps in managing diabetes, heart disease and digestive disorders and is highly beneficial for overall health.

Various types of millet-based products and dishes were displayed at the Millet Mela, giving attendees an opportunity to understand their usage and importance.

Commandant, CISF Unit Punjab and Haryana Civil Secretariat, Chandigarh, Sh. Lalit Panwar, employees of Punjab and  Haryana Civil Secretariat, media persons, CISF personnel and their family members were present on the occasion.

National Hockey Player Olympian Navneet Kaur Meets Energy Minister Sh. Anil Vij in Chandigarh

Chandigarh, December 14 – National hockey player Olympian Navneet Kaur met with Haryana’s Energy, Transport, and Labour Minister Sh. Anil Vij at his office in Chandigarh today. During the meeting, Sh.Vij expressed pride in Olympian Navneet Kaur, captain of the Hero Hockey India League champions SG Pipers from Ranchi and the Championship’s Best Player, and gave her his blessings.

Sh. Vij said that Haryana’s pride, Olympian Navneet Kaur, has created history with her outstanding performance in the Hero Hockey India League 2025-26. He expressed hope that she will continue to bring glory to the country in upcoming tournaments. Sh. Vij emphasized that the state government remains committed to promoting sports talent.

Notably, Navneet Kaur, vice-captain of the Indian women’s hockey team (from Shahbad), led SG Pipers to victory in the final as captain. The team won the gold medal in the championship held in Ranchi, where Navneet Kaur was honored not only as captain but also awarded the title of ‘Championship’s Best Player.’

Navneet Kaur’s performance serves as an inspiration for Haryana’s youth. Having represented the country at the Olympic level, she has proven through her hard work, leadership, and sporting skills that Haryana’s sports sector excels on the global stage.

Congress Constitutes District-Level Election Committees for Ambala–Panchkula–Sonipat Municipal Corporation Elections

Chandigarh/Panchkula.

With regard to the Municipal Corporation elections to be held in Ambala, Panchkula and Sonipat in the year 2026, the Indian National Congress has intensified its preparations. There is tremendous enthusiasm among Congress workers across the state, and the organization is fully prepared to enter the electoral arena with strength and discipline.
Haryana Pradesh Congress Committee President Rao Narendra Singh informed that the Congress will contest the Municipal Corporation elections with full vigor, and a solid and practical strategy is being worked out to ensure victory. In this sequence, with the objective of conducting the entire election process in a well-organized, effective and result-oriented manner, the party has constituted special district-level election committees.
Rao Narendra Singh said that the constituted committees will play an important role in organizational coordination, election preparations, campaigning, public outreach and successfully completing all election-related formalities. He expressed confidence that on the strength of public issues, a clear development agenda and a strong organizational structure, the Congress will hoist the flag of victory in the Municipal Corporation elections.
The state Congress leadership made it clear that the party will further strengthen grassroots-level public contact and will go among the people by making the problems of every section of society key election issues. He said that the people are troubled by the oppressive attitude of the BJP in the state and will not tolerate it any longer. Congress is the only alternative that stands firmly on the ideology of public welfare, socialism, equality and inclusive development.
Rao Narendra Singh said that all Congress leaders and workers will fight this election unitedly and in a disciplined manner, ensuring victory.
Members of the District-Level Election Committees are as follows:
Panchkula Municipal Corporation Election Committee:
Rao Narendra Singh, State President
Bhupinder Singh Hooda, Leader of Opposition
Varun Chaudhary, Member of Parliament
Chandramohan, MLA
Sanjay Chauhan, District President
Ambala Municipal Corporation Election Committee:
Rao Narendra Singh, State President
Bhupinder Singh Hooda, Leader of Opposition
Varun Chaudhary, Member of Parliament
Nirmal Singh, MLA
Chetan Chauhan,AICC Secretary,
Pawan Aggarwal, District President (Urban)
Parvinder Pal Singh, District President (Cantt.)
Dushyant Chauhan, District President (Rural)
Sonipat Municipal Corporation Election Committee:
Rao Narendra Singh, State President
Bhupinder Singh Hooda, Leader of Opposition
Satpal Brahmachari, Member of Parliament
Sanjeev Kumar Dahiya, District President (Rural)
Kamal Diwan, District President (Urban)
Surender Pawar, Former MLA
Jaivir Singh Balmiki, Former MLA
Jai Bhagwan Antil
The Pradesh Congress expressed confidence that all appointed members will discharge their responsibilities with full dedication, commitment and sincerity. Haryana Congress will contest this Municipal Corporation election battle in unity and, with the blessings of the people, will hoist the flag of victory.

GMADA offers 42 prime sites worth ₹5,460 crore  for online auction; first mega auction of 2026 from Jan 14 to Feb 11: Hardeep Singh Mundian

CHANDIGARH, 14th January 2026:

In a significant push to accelerate planned urban development and broaden access to real estate opportunities, Punjab Housing and Urban Development Minister Hardeep Singh Mundian on Wednesday announced that the Greater Mohali Area Development Authority (GMADA) will auction 42 prime sites valued at ₹5,460 crore through an online process, marking the first mega auction of 2026 to be held from January 14 to February 11.

The auction, spanning residential plots, SCOs, mixed land-use sites, and land earmarked for hospitals and hotels, reflects the Bhagwant Mann Government’s strategy of rationalising property prices, enforcing complete transparency, and leveraging investor-friendly policies to ensure wider participation by homebuyers, entrepreneurs, and institutional investors alike.

Addressing a press conference on Wednesday, Housing and Urban Development Minister Hardeep Singh Mundian announced that 42 sites of the Greater Mohali Area Development Authority (GMADA) have been offered for online auction, comprising residential plots, SCOs, mixed land use sites, group housing plots, as well as land earmarked for hospitals and hotels.

The Housing and Urban Development Minister said, “Under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, the Punjab Government is making sustained efforts for balanced and planned development of the state.” He added that investor-friendly policies of the Bhagwant Mann Government have generated strong interest in the real estate sector and infused fresh momentum into urban development activities.

Highlighting the positive response to earlier initiatives, the Housing and Urban Development Minister said that e-auctions conducted from time to time by development authorities under the Housing and Urban Development Department have received encouraging participation. “Carrying this process forward, GMADA has scheduled the first mega auction of the year 2026 from January 14, 2026 to February 11, 2026,” he said.

Minister Hardeep Singh Mundian informed that in line with decisions taken in the previous Cabinet meeting, prices of the properties offered in this auction have been rationalised to ensure that people from all sections of society can conveniently purchase property as per their requirements. “This step will help citizens realise their aspiration of owning a home or starting a business,” he said.

The Minister further stated that the selection of sites has been made keeping in view the needs of every segment of society so that buyers can choose properties aligned with their personal or commercial requirements. He added that the properties are located at prime urban locations and are well connected through multiple modes of transport, including the international airport, railway station, and major road networks.

Emphasising transparency, Minister Hardeep Singh Mundian said, “The entire auction process will be conducted by GMADA with complete transparency.” He informed that details regarding eligibility for bidding, payment schedules, and comprehensive information along with terms and conditions are available on the auction portal puda.enivida.com. “After registration on the portal, bidders can participate in the auction,” he said, adding that for the convenience of bidders, GMADA has also launched a dedicated email ID invest.gmada@punjab.gov.in for all property-related queries.

Expressing confidence in the outcome, the Minister said that like previous successful auctions, this initiative is expected to yield positive results, contribute to the economic growth of the state, and enable GMADA to utilise the revenue generated to raise new benchmarks of development within its jurisdiction.

*Mohali emerges as North India’s fastest-growing investment hub as Invest Mohali 2026 auction opens new opportunities for inclusive, transparent urban development*

Punjab is entering a decisive phase of its economic and urban transformation, focused not merely on accelerating growth but on shaping a development model that is inclusive, resilient, and globally competitive. Under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, the Punjab Government is pursuing sustained and focused efforts towards the all-round development of the state. Investor-friendly policies, transparent governance, and institutional reforms have resulted in visible momentum across multiple sectors, including a strong revival and expansion of the real estate and urban infrastructure sectors.

Over the last decade, Mohali has emerged as Punjab’s primary platform for technology, healthcare, advanced manufacturing, and knowledge-driven services, supported by a strong institutional ecosystem and carefully planned urban infrastructure. The city ranks among India’s fastest-growing urban economies, recording approximately 10 percent Gross District Domestic Product growth between 2012 and 2021. This growth has been driven by a diversified economic base spanning IT, Global Capability Centres, electronics and semiconductors, healthcare, education, and professional services, providing long-term economic resilience and investment security.

Mohali currently employs nearly 50,000 to 60,000 professionals, with IT and GCC employment projected to almost double over the next five years, creating tens of thousands of high-quality jobs for Punjab’s youth. The city has also consolidated its position as a leading education hub in North India, producing over 40,000 graduates annually and hosting more than 27 engineering, medical, and management institutions, including ISB and IISER, ensuring a steady pipeline of skilled talent for industry.

Complementing its economic strengths, Mohali offers a significant cost advantage over Tier-1 cities, with lower office rentals, competitive power tariffs, and reduced living costs, resulting in better employee retention. Ease of doing business has been strengthened through the Unified Single Window System covering more than 23 departments, enabling fast-tracked project approvals within 30 to 45 days. High-quality urban living, planned layouts, green cover, improved air quality, and strong regional connectivity further enhance the city’s attractiveness for residents and investors alike.

Mohali is increasingly emerging as India’s upcoming growth hub and well-being city, supported by major public and private sector investments. Fortis Healthcare is expanding its Mohali facility with an investment exceeding ₹900 crore, adding over 400 hospital beds and strengthening the city’s position as a regional centre for advanced healthcare and medical tourism. In the information technology sector, Infosys is developing a new campus in Mohali’s IT City with an investment of approximately ₹300 crore, expected to generate around 2,500 high-skilled jobs.

In advanced electronics, the Government of India has committed ₹4,500 crore for the modernisation and expansion of the Semi-Conductor Laboratory, alongside the expansion of Continental Device India Limited under the India Semiconductor Mission. These initiatives position Mohali as a national node for semiconductor research, development, and fabrication support. The hospitality sector is also witnessing rapid growth, with Indian Hotels Company Limited developing a 225-key Taj hotel and ITC Hotels investing ₹126 crore in a Welcome Hotel, strengthening Mohali’s capacity for business tourism, conferences, and MICE activities.

Major Boost for Haryana Power Consumers: Centre Earmarks Coal Linkage for 800 MW Khedar Unit

Chandigarh, January 14 – In a major boost for electricity consumers in Haryana, the state has achieved a significant milestone in the energy sector. Strengthening its power generation capacity, the Central Government has earmarked coal linkage for the new 800 MW expansion unit being set up at Khedar in Hisar district. This crucial earmarked will ensure uninterrupted, reliable, and high-quality electricity supply across Haryana, reinforcing the state’s commitment to energy security and consumer welfare.

Providing details, Haryana’s Energy Minister, Sh. Anil Vij said that coal linkage has been earmarked to Haryana under the Central Government’s SHAKTI Scheme for the new 800 MW unit being established as part of the expansion of the Rajiv Gandhi Thermal Power Plant at Khedar, Hisar. Under this arrangement, a new coal block will soon be allotted to the state, ensuring a regular and long-term supply of coal for the project.

The Energy Minister said that the earmaking of coal linkage will accelerate the implementation of this crucial project and eliminate any future disruptions in power generation due to fuel shortages. This will not only strengthen the state’s energy security but also effectively meet the growing demand for electricity.

He further said that the Rajiv Gandhi Thermal Power Plant at Khedar has already become the backbone of Haryana’s power system. The new 800 MW unit being set up as part of its expansion will significantly enhance the state’s overall power generation capacity. Once operational, the unit will provide adequate electricity to industrial areas, the agricultural sector and domestic consumers.

Sh. Anil Vij emphasized that the state government’s objective is to make Haryana self-reliant in the power sector so that consumers receive affordable, sustainable and uninterrupted electricity. The Central Government’s earmarking of coal linkage is a major achievement in this direction and will strengthen Haryana’s long-term energy planning.

Expressing confidence, the Energy Minister stated that this landmark project will not only further strengthen the state’s power supply system but will also act as a catalyst for employment generation, industrial expansion, and overall economic growth at the local level. He emphasized that the Haryana Government is firmly committed to reinforcing and modernizing the state’s energy infrastructure, and in the coming years, Haryana is set to emerge as a frontrunner among states in the energy sector.

Clarification by Energy Minister Anil Vij: Reports on Termination of Kalyanpur–Badlapara Coal Block Are Misleading

Chandigarh, January 14 — Haryana’s Energy Minister, Sh. Anil Vij has categorically clarified14 that reports published in certain sections of the media claiming termination of the Kalyanpur–Badlapara coal block in Jharkhand, allotted to Haryana, are completely misleading and factually incorrect. He asserted that no termination of the coal block has taken place as per the official sources.

Sh. Anil Vij said that the factual position is that the Ministry of Coal (MoC) had issued only a show-cause notice to the Haryana Power Generation Corporation Limited (HPGCL) seeking clarification on certain procedural aspects related to the coal block. HPGCL has submitted a detailed reply within the stipulated time, along with a request that the allocation of the coal block should not be terminated.

He informed that HPGCL has already engaged a Mine Developer and Operator (MDO) for the development of the coal block. Land survey work has been completed, boundary work has been completed and drilling activities are currently in progress. Other developmental activities have also commenced and are being carried out as per schedule in line with the approved timeline.

Sh. Vij said that as per the current project schedule, coal production from this block is expected to begin in time to supply coal to the Yamunanagar Thermal Power Plant by the year 2030. There is a clear distinction between issuance of a show-cause notice and termination of a coal block. A show-cause notice is issued to seek clarification and does not imply cancellation of allocation. At present, the coal block allocation remains intact, and development work is continuing as planned.

The Energy Minister urged the media to verify facts before publishing such reports and advised the public not to be misled by unverified or speculative information.

Cheema demands special fiscal package from Central Govt, citing “double whammy” of border tensions & devastating floods in 2025

CHANDIGARH /NEW DELHI, 10th January 2026:

Punjab Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema on Saturday urged the Union Government to extend immediate fiscal assistance and announce a special economic package for Punjab, stressing that the state has endured an extraordinarily difficult year marked first by heightened India–Pakistan border tensions and then by the worst floods witnessed in decades in 2025.

During a pre-Budget meeting with Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman in New Delhi, the Punjab Finance Minister submitted a detailed memorandum laying out Punjab’s key financial requirements and policy demands for the Union Budget 2026–27.

Emphasising Punjab’s strategic importance, Punjab Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema said the state, being the country’s first line of defence, suffered severe economic disruption due to prolonged security tensions along the international border, followed immediately by a devastating monsoon disaster that was officially declared a calamity of severe nature by the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA).

Explaining the scale of devastation, the Punjab Finance Minister stated that floods impacted more than 2,300 villages and affected nearly 20,000 families across the state. He informed Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman that comprehensive ground-level assessments have pegged the total damage at ₹12,905 crore. “To manage rehabilitation and reconstruction arising from such extraordinary circumstances, Punjab requires fiscal flexibility,” he said, formally requesting permission for a one-time additional borrowing limit of 1% of GSDP for 2025–26 under the FRBM (Fiscal Responsibility and Budget Management) Act provisions applicable during natural disasters and national security emergencies.

Raising concerns related to national security, Minister Harpal Singh Cheema underlined that recent developments along the international border have made it imperative to substantially upgrade Punjab’s security infrastructure. He sought special central assistance of ₹1,000 crore for modernization of the police force, strengthening emergency response systems, and deploying advanced anti-drone technology to effectively counter cross-border threats and narcotics trafficking. “As a border state bearing a disproportionate security burden, this support should be seen as cooperative federalism in action, not as a concession,” he said.

Turning to agriculture and rural infrastructure, the Punjab Finance Minister flagged the issue of withheld Rural Development Fund (RDF), urging the Centre to immediately release the pending RDF amount of ₹7,757 crore calculated up to June 2025. “These funds are critical for maintaining rural roads and infrastructure,” he said.

Stressing the urgent need to shift away from water-intensive crops, Minister Harpal Singh Cheema proposed a special budgetary allocation for paddy diversification, arguing that the current incentive is inadequate. He requested that the incentive be increased to ₹15,000 per acre to drive real behavioural change among farmers and safeguard groundwater resources.

On the issue of GST reforms, The Punjab Minister pointed out that Punjab has suffered a severe and continuing revenue shock following the implementation of GST 2.0. “Punjab is facing an annual revenue loss of nearly ₹6,000 crore, which amounts to around 44% of its own tax revenue,” he noted. The Minister strongly pressed for a predictable GST stabilization or compensation mechanism for states facing such structural revenue erosion, stating that fiscal sustainability of states cannot be compromised.

The Punjab Finance Minister also expressed strong opposition to the proposed changes to the MGNREGA framework, arguing that the new model dilutes the employment guarantee and transfers a significant financial burden to the states. He called for restoration of the original demand-driven structure and funding pattern of the scheme.

Raising concerns over public health financing, Minister Harpal Singh Cheema drew attention to the sharp reduction in cash allocation under the National Health Mission (NHM) for 2025–26, which he said was cut from the initially communicated ₹452.78 crore to ₹252 crore. He requested restoration of the original allocation to ensure uninterrupted delivery of essential health services across Punjab.

Concluding his submission, Punjab Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema said he hoped the Union Budget would reflect the true spirit of cooperative federalism by responding to Punjab’s unique challenges as a border state recovering simultaneously from security pressures and climate-induced disasters.

*The key demands are:*

*A. SDRF & GST:*

1. SDRF Relief: Exemption of State Disaster Response Fund (SDRF) balances from interest liability and permission to utilize accumulated funds.

2. GST Compensation: Introduction of a mechanism to compensate for the annual revenue loss of approx. ₹6,000 crore post-GST 2.0 reforms.

*B. Security & Policing:*

Special Assistance: A grant of ₹1,000 crore for police modernization, border security infrastructure, and anti-drone technology.

*C. Agriculture & Cooperatives:*

1. Paddy Diversification: Special budget allocation to increase farmer incentives from ₹7,500 to ₹15,000 per acre to reduce paddy cultivation.

2. RDF Release: Immediate release of pending Rural Development Fee (RDF) amounting to ₹7,757 crore.

3. Interest Subvention: Increase interest subvention on cooperative crop loans from 1.5% to 3%.

4. NABARD Refinance: Restore refinance to Rural Cooperative Banks to a minimum of 40% at concessional rates.

*D. Water Resources & Flood Management:*

1. PMKSY Support: Budgetary support of ₹1,053 crore for canal projects fed by the Sutlej River.

2. Flood Control: Operational control of BBMB reservoirs to be handed over to Punjab during the flood season.

3. Dam Dues: Release of pending shares from J&K for Ranjit Sagar Dam (₹297 crore) and Shahpurkandi Dam (₹665 crore).

4. JJM Funds: Release pending central share of ₹443 crore for the Jal Jeevan Mission.

*E. Rural Development, Health, and Employment:*

1. MGNREGA: Restoration of the original demand-driven mandate and funding model, opposing the proposed transition to the “Viksit Bharat Guarantee for Rozgar and Ajeevika Mission”.

2. NHM Allocation: Restoration of the National Health Mission cash allocation to ₹452.78 crore (currently reduced to ₹252 crore).

*F. Power Sector*

1. Coal Freight: Reinstatement of the 20% railway freight concession on coal transportation.

2. Coal Usage: Permission to use coal from the Pachhwara Central mine for private thermal plants (Talwandi & Nabha) to lower tariffs.

3. Trading Margin: Reduction of renewable energy trading margins from 7 paise to 2 paise / kWh.

PUNJAB TO BE TRANSFORMED INTO PREMIER HUB OF DEFENCE MANUFACTURING: AMAN ARORA

Chandigarh, January 10:

In a significant move to position Punjab at the forefront of India’s defence manufacturing by align the state capabilities with national defence imperatives, Chief Minister S. Bhagwant Singh Mann led Punjab Government, on Saturday, organised a high-level Defence Skills Conclave, focused on skill development for Defence, Aerospace & Strategic Sectors. The conclave, presided over by Punjab Employment Generation, Skill Development and Training Minister Mr. Aman Arora, served as a pivotal platform to architect a robust talent pipeline for the country’s self-reliance in defence manufacturing.

The Conclave convened a distinguished gathering of Defence Secretary (GoI) Mr. Rajesh Kumar Singh, Punjab Chief Secretary Mr. KAP Sinha, Principal Secretary Employment Generation, Skill Development & Training Ms. Alaknanda Dayal and senior policymakers, industry titans from leading Defence PSUs and Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs), heads of premier academic institutions, and skilling experts. The aim was to design a cohesive, industry-driven skilling ecosystem that meets the evolving technological demands of modern warfare and aerospace.

Addressing the gathering, Mr. Aman Arora highlighted the state’s rich legacy in India’s defence, citing its contributions from the Mughal era to the present days. He stated that in today’s era of technological warfare, bravery must be complemented with cutting-edge skills. This conclave is CM Mann led Punjab Government’s commitment to transform Punjab into a premier hub which not only produce soldiers but also the highly skilled technologists and engineers to make the country ‘Atmanirbhar’ in defence manufacturing.

He also highlighted that the state contributes over 12% of the country’s soldiers despite having only 2% of the population, while pointing out that Punjab has a rich legacy in defence and is well-positioned to attract investment in the defence industry, with international airports in Mohali and Amritsar and one of India’s largest air force bases in Adampur, besides, conducive and business friendly policies and environment in the state. The government is working closely with industry leaders, educational institutions and stakeholders to identify skill gaps and develop targeted training programs for the defence sector, he added.

Highlighting Punjab’s potential to contribute significantly to India’s defence skilling efforts, Mr. Aman Arora stated, “In the coming times, if any state can serve the country the most in terms of skilling for defence—digitally, psychologically and emotionally—it is the Punjab.” He stressed the need for collaborative policy-making between industry and Central  government to harness this potential and position Punjab as the nation’s steadfast shield.

Defence Secretary (GoI) Mr. Rajesh Kumar Singh lauded the Punjab Government for hosting the Conclave, calling it a step towards making India a global manufacturing hub. He emphasised creating strong skill eco-system and a diversified industrial base. He said that Punjab has immense potential in defence manufacturing as the state’s has a strong military tradition.

Mr. KAP Sinha and Ms Alaknanda Dayal assured full support from the state government to facilitate the investments in defence manufacturing sector, while underscoring the strategic importance of the defence, aerospace and strategic sectors in ensuring national security and driving economic growth also leading to more employment opportunities for the youth. The CS Mr. Sinha said that the Conclave will foster collaboration to drive innovation and self-reliance in India’s defence sector.

Meanwhile, the state government has signed MoUs with premier organisations including the Society of Indian Defence Manufacturers (SIDM), NASSCOM, Microsoft, IBM, and 1M1B (1 Million for 1 Billion). These collaborations are designed to enhance the employability and technological adeptness of Punjab’s youth for high-value roles in defence and aerospace.

The conclave witnessed multidisciplinary participation from institutes like IIT Delhi, IIT Ropar, IIT Indore, Punjab Engineering College and Chandigarh University, alongside defence industry giants including Bharat Forge Ltd, Mahindra Defence Systems, L&T Defence, Tata Advanced Systems Ltd and Safran India. Notably, the event saw significant multi-state engagement, with delegates from Haryana, Gujarat, Telangana, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka and UP Defence Industrial Corridor, among others. The Defence Skills Conclave marks a transformative step in Punjab’s journey, positioning the state as a nucleus for creating a skilled, innovative and sustainable workforce ready to secure India’s future.

Cabinet Minister Sanjeev Arora inaugurates new Ultra Modern ‘Tool Room’ at Focal Point, Ludhiana

Chandigarh/Ludhiana, January 10:

Due to industry friendly policies and atmosphere being provided by the Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann-led Punjab government, a regular inflow of  investments are pouring in Punjab under the ‘Invest Punjab’ initiative. Since 2022 1.5 lakh Crore investment has come in with an employment opportunity of 5.25 lakh people.

These words were expressed by the Cabinet Minister Mr Sanjeev Arora while inaugurating the newly established unit of KJ Forging at a cost of Rs 35 crore at focal point, here.

Cabinet Minister Arora said that the Punjab Government is constantly striving to boost the industry and create a conducive environment, under which industrialists from other states are also investing crores of rupees here. He said that under the same series, a new ‘Tool Room’ unit has been set up by KJ Group at a cost of Rs 35 crore.

Apart from this, during the year 2025, the KJ group invested Rs 52 crore, while in the current year 2026, another Rs 66 crore will be invested through a 12 MW solar power plant. The Cabinet Minister Arora clarified that thousands of unemployed youth will also get employment opportunities with such industries investing in Punjab.

On this occasion, he was accompanied by State Information Commissioner Harpreet Singh Sandhu, Upkar Singh Ahuja from CICU, Chief Administrator GLADA Sandeep Kumar, Gopi Kothari and Amit Kothari from KJ Group, Naveen Behl and a large number of representatives of various industrial units.

Cabinet Minister Sanjeev Arora expressed happiness that most of the machines in this newly established unit have been developed in cities like Bangalore and Gujarat in India, whereas earlier these machines were imported from abroad.

Answering the questions asked by the journalists, he thanked the Hon’ble Chief Minister and Hon’ble National Convener Arvind Kejriwal who entrusted the responsibility of the Local Government Department to him. He clarified that the problems related to Municipal Corporations, Municipal Councils will be resolved on priority basis. He said that instructions will also be issued to PSPCL to ensure that no wire is seen hanging in any village, town or city, under which the tender process is going on in 87 sub-divisions.Apart from this, the sewage system will be upgraded, further improvements will be made in the road infrastructure.

Cabinet Minister Sanjeev Arora said that one of the major projects of the Punjab Government, the revival of Budha Dariya, that is going on at a war footing. He said that a complete ban has been imposed on dumping of cow dung and other waste of dairies into the Dariya. Strict instructions have also been issued to dyeing units and other factories on the banks of Budha Dariya to ensure that untreated water is not dumped into the river.

On this occasion, KJ Group expressed special gratitude to Cabinet Minister Sanjeev Arora and Chief Minister Punjab Bhagwant Singh Mann and said that the Punjab Government has created industrial friendly policies and the most peaceful environment for working. He also contributed Rs 21 lacs to the Chief Minister’s Relief Fund.