All posts by admin

Minimum wages increased by up to 35%, effective from April 1, 2026: Labour Minister Anil Vij

Chandigarh, April 08 – Haryana Labour Minister Sh. Anil Vij said that the state government has given a major gift to workers by increasing the rates of minimum wages, which will come into effect from April 1, 2026. He informed that approval in this regard was given in the Cabinet meeting held today.

Giving further details, Sh. Vij said that Haryana is the first state which, under the leadership of Prime Minister Sh. Narendra Modi and following the historic and visionary decision of implementing four new labour codes (the Code on Wages, 2019; the Industrial Relations Code, 2020; the Social Security Code, 2020; and the Occupational Safety, Health and Working Conditions Code, 2020), has significantly increased minimum wages for workers in the state.

Minimum wage rates increased by around 35% – Vij

He said that this historic decision will benefit lakhs of workers in the state. He informed that the wages of unskilled workers have been increased from ₹11,274.60 to ₹15,220, reflecting an increase of about ₹3,945.40, which is approximately 35 percent. Similarly, the wages of semi-skilled workers have been increased from ₹12,430.18 to ₹16,780.74, showing an increase of ₹4,350.56, also around 35 percent.

Sh. Vij further said that the wages of skilled workers have been increased from ₹13,704.31 to ₹18,500.81, marking an increase of ₹4,796.50 (around 35%). Likewise, the wages of highly skilled workers have been increased from ₹14,389.52 to ₹19,425.85, reflecting an increase of ₹5,036.33, also approximately 35 percent.

He said that the four new labour codes—the Code on Wages, 2019; the Industrial Relations Code, 2020; the Social Security Code, 2020; and the Occupational Safety, Health and Working Conditions Code, 2020—were implemented on November 21, 2025. With their implementation, 29 old and fragmented labour laws in the country have been simplified and rationally consolidated.

This is a significant increase in workers’ income – Vij

He further said that this decision reflects the state government’s sensitivity and commitment towards the welfare of workers. He said that this notable increase in workers’ income will not only improve their standard of living but also give a new impetus to the state’s economy.

Protecting workers’ interests is a priority – Vij

Sh. Vij also said that his priority has always been to safeguard the interests of workers and provide them with better working conditions. He assured that similar concrete and effective decisions in the interest of workers will continue to be taken in the future.

Workers are the backbone of the nation and the state’s economy – Vij

Sh. Vij said that workers are the backbone of both the national and state economies, and without their empowerment, overall development is not possible. With this perspective, the state government is continuously implementing worker-friendly policies. He also said that further comprehensive steps will be taken in the future to strengthen social security, health facilities, and safe working conditions for workers.

He expressed confidence that this historic wage increase will bring positive changes in the lives of workers and provide economic strength to their families.

AAP National Media In-charge Anurag Dhanda slams the BJP government over supplying water to Delhi and Rajasthan

IEP Chandigarh

Aam Aadmi Party’s National Media In-charge, Anurag Dhanda, launched a scathing attack on the BJP government of Haryana and Chief Minister Nayab Singh, accusing them of playing double politics over the water issue. He stated that the BJP has turned even the most sensitive issue connected to people’s lives—water—into a tool for its power games.

Anurag Dhanda mentioned that recent media reports have revealed the Delhi government is preparing to buy additional water from Haryana to meet its growing summer demand. This is the exact same BJP government that previously created hurdles at every level when the elected Arvind Kejriwal government in Delhi attempted to purchase water from Himachal Pradesh. At that time, instead of facilitating water for the people of Delhi, the BJP government in Haryana and at the Centre deliberately worked to harass them. However, today, with a BJP government in power in Delhi, the Haryana government is instantly ready to supply water. This clearly exposes the BJP’s political character and its true priorities.

Anurag Dhanda highlighted that Haryana itself is going through a severe water crisis, yet despite this, the BJP government is talking about giving water to other states. According to official data, the state faces an annual water deficit of approximately 14 billion cubic meters, and more than 1,700 villages are suffering from a severe water shortage. Over the past five years, the groundwater level has continuously plummeted, dropping from 21.17 meters down to 23.02 meters. The situation is extremely alarming in districts like Mahendragarh, where the water level has sunk below a depth of 50 meters. In many districts, people are struggling for clean drinking water and are forced to consume contaminated water.

Anurag Dhanda pointed out the glaring irony: on one hand, people in Haryana’s villages are yearning for a drop of water, while on the other, the Nayab Saini government is preparing to supply water to Delhi and Rajasthan. He questioned whether this decision is actually based on necessity or if it is being driven purely by political gain. Citing the 1994 water-sharing agreement to justify giving additional water is merely an excuse; the reality is that the BJP operates on a policy designed to benefit states it rules while actively harming opposition-ruled states.

Anurag Dhanda stated that when Arvind Kejriwal’s government was in power in Delhi, the BJP weaponized water to torment the public. But today, that same BJP government is ready to provide water without a single hurdle. This is a highly dangerous sign for our democratic system and federal structure, where vital resources are being exploited for political interests rather than the public good.

Anurag Dhanda demanded that the Haryana government must first take concrete steps to resolve its own state’s water crisis, formulate a clear policy on groundwater conservation and water management, and transparently inform the public about the conditions and exact quantities of water being planned for transfer.

Anurag Dhanda concluded by stating that the BJP’s double politics is now fully exposed before the public. Turning a fundamental human right like water into a political weapon perfectly reflects the BJP’s mindset, and the Aam Aadmi Party will continue to expose this truth on every available platform.

World Health Day: PGIMER Medical Researchers Turn Models at Fashion Show

Panchkula: To mark World Health Day in a befitting manner, a unique fashion show was organised by Jia Diamonds to acknowledge the contributions made by medical researchers towards society. The event provided a platform for medical researchers from the Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education & Research (PGIMER), Chandigarh, to turn fashion models for the evening.

Speaking on the occasion, organiser of the fashion show,H C Goyal said, “This fashion show is not just about showcasing jewellery, but about paying a rich tribute to the medical fraternity on World Health Day. By bringing PGIMER researchers to do a fashion walk, we wanted to challenge conventional notions of beauty. These women represent strength, intelligence, and resilience, and deserve to be celebrated in every space—including fashion.”

The fashion show stood out for its distinctive concept—blending science with style—featuring four medical researchers from PGIMER Chandigarh alongside a professional model. Those who sashayed down the ramp included Tanisha Dimri and Poonam Kushan from the Department of Ophthalmology, PGIMER; and Ishneet and Megha from PGIMER’s Department of Dermatology. All of them are working as medical researchers at PGI.

The participation of medical researchers added a meaningful dimension to the event, symbolizing the balance between demanding professional roles and personal expression. Adding a special touch to the showcase, a 10-year-old girl , who walked in the fashion show as the showstopper.

The fashion show was designed in three rounds—bridal, designer evening wear, and casual styling—demonstrating how fine jewellery can seamlessly complement every facet of a modern woman’s life. The event witnessed the presence of prominent members of the tricity, including senior bureaucrats, political dignitaries, and retired defence personnel.

The show was brought to life by a creative team including makeup artist Anjali Shukla, stylist Sagar Pal, and designer Prashik Pushplata Sukhnandan.

In conclusion, H.C. Goyal said, “This was not just a fashion walk—it was a celebration of the strength, balance, and human spirit behind every woman, especially those who dedicate their lives to serving others.”

Banga Memorial Championship:‘G.S. Banga U-19 T20 Challenger Cup’ Kicks Off

Chandigarh, April 6: ‘G.S. Banga U-19 T20 Challenger Cup’ commenced on Monday with great उत्साह and enthusiasm. Chief Guest Gurnam Kaur formally inaugurated the tournament during a ceremony held at Guru Nanak Public School Sector 36. The tournament is being organized by GNPS Cricket Academy with the aim of providing a competitive platform to budding cricketers.

On this occasion, jerseys of the participating teams were also unveiled in the presence of PMS Banga, son of Late G.S. Banga, along with other distinguished guests and officials. A total of 83 balloons were released into the sky as a tribute to Late G.S. Banga.

All league matches of the tournament will be played at Guru Nanak Public School, where young players from across the region will showcase their talent and compete at a high level.

Speaking on the occasion, PMS Banga and organizer Jagteshwar Singh said that the primary objective of the tournament is to nurture emerging players and prepare them for professional cricket through a competitive environment.

The tournament will continue until April 14, while the final match will be played under floodlights at the Sector 16 Cricket Stadium. Organizers have expressed confidence that the tournament will conclude on an exciting and grand note.

Rs 1,137 crore recovered as Bhagwant Mann Govt cracks down on tax evasion with record enforcement: Harpal Singh Cheema

CHANDIGARH, 6 April 2026:

Reaffirming the zero-tolerance policy against tax evasion under CM Bhagwant Singh Mann, Finance, Planning, Excise and Taxation Minister Harpal Singh Cheema on Monday announced that the Punjab Government has achieved record enforcement outcomes in the financial year 2025–26, marking a decisive shift towards intelligence-led action and robust revenue protection.

Detailing the performance, Minister Harpal Singh Cheema stated, “Driven by the focused and intelligence-led actions of the State Intelligence and Preventive Units, the State Taxation Department imposed massive penalties amounting to ₹1,383.11 crore during the year. Out of this imposed amount, a staggering ₹1,137.85 crore has already been recovered, reflecting a significant leap in enforcement efficiency and revenue realization for Punjab.”

Highlighting the backbone of this success, he added, “Inspection-based enforcement emerged as the primary driver, accounting for ₹1,215.95 crore in penalties and ₹972.15 crore in actual recoveries. Alongside this, road checking operations contributed a solid ₹165.71 crore. This performance marks a multi-fold improvement over FY 2024–25, where inspection enforcement resulted in ₹147.28 crore imposed and ₹41.53 crore recovered, and road checking recoveries stood at ₹157.14 crore. This sharp surge in FY 2025–26 underscores a transformational shift in the state’s capacity for detection, enforcement, and actual financial recovery.”

Underlining the crackdown on fraudulent networks, Minister Harpal Singh Cheema said, “The Taxation Department registered eight FIRs and carried out 15 arrests throughout the year. Two of the most prominent FIRs involved seven individuals and exposed fraudulent transactions worth ₹385 crore. These targeted operations uncovered tax evasion of ₹69.57 crore orchestrated by firms engaged in issuing invoices without the actual supply of goods.”

He added, “Additional FIRs were registered across Bathinda, Mandi Gobindgarh, Ludhiana, and Chandigarh to take decisive action against illegal transport of goods and deceptive billing networks. In one highly significant operation, a Ludhiana-based proprietor was arrested for passing fraudulent Input Tax Credit exceeding ₹9 crore.”

He further stated, “The department’s advanced intelligence network yielded several major detections, including uncovering ₹900 crore of fake billing in gold transactions in Ludhiana, ₹226 crore in illicit coal transactions across Mohali, Kharar, and Kotkapura, and ₹423 crore of bogus billing networks operating in Ludhiana and Mandi Gobindgarh. Furthermore, complex investigations uncovered a ₹200 crore fraud involving the ‘Pet Pooja App,’ highlighting the massive scale and sophisticated nature of modern evasion networks.”

On verification drives, the Minister stated, “Focused verification exercises led to the identification of 1,579 suspicious dealers. Following rigorous checks, 922 of these entities were found to be non-existent and their registrations were subsequently cancelled in close coordination with central authorities.”

Emphasising ITC safeguards, he noted, “Strong Input Tax Credit control measures resulted in ₹244.82 crore being actively blocked and ₹206.64 crore reversed. These proactive steps successfully safeguarded ₹451.46 crore in state funds, alongside an additional ₹19.08 crore realized through direct cash recovery.”

Highlighting intensified field enforcement, he added, “During a special drive conducted simultaneously at Mandi Gobindgarh and Ludhiana, a record 141 vehicles were detained in a single day. The department also strengthened enforcement at railway stations and major transit points, with particular scrutiny on high-risk sectors such as iron and steel, cement, auto parts, tobacco, and metals.”

Crediting institutional and technological strength, Minister Harpal Singh Cheema said, “The role of State Intelligence and Preventive Unit, Tax Intelligence Unit, and the ‘Bill Liao Inaam Pao’ Scheme has been pivotal. The overwhelming success of these enforcement measures has been powered by advanced data analytics, real-time e-way bill tracking, continuous intelligence inputs, and newly developed digital enforcement portals. These technological advancements have enabled swift and highly coordinated action on the ground.”

Reaffirming the Bhagwant Mann Government’s commitment, Minister Harpal Singh Cheema stated, “The performance of FY 2025–26 reflects a transformational shift towards intelligence-led enforcement, significantly strengthening compliance and revenue mobilization across Punjab. Such deterrent actions will continue with even greater intensity to permanently dismantle fraudulent networks, promote genuine business practices, protect honest taxpayers, and safeguard the state’s vital revenues.”

ISI-BACKED TERROR MODULE BEING OPERATED BY PAKISTAN INTELLIGENCE OPERATIVES BUSTED; THREE HELD WITH TWO HAND-GRENADES, GLOCK PISTOL

CHANDIGARH/AMRITSAR, April 6:

          In a major breakthrough amidst the ongoing drive to make Punjab a safe and secure state as per directions of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, Counter Intelligence (CI) wing of Punjab Police has busted an ISI-backed terror module being operated by Pakistan Intelligence Operatives (PIOs) with the arrest of three accused persons and recovered two Arges hand grenades along with a foreign-made Glock pistol from their possession, said Director General of Police (DGP) Punjab Gaurav Yadav here on Monday.

          Those arrested have been identified as Sarabjit Singh, a resident of village Ammishah in Tarn Taran, Bikramjit Singh, a resident of village Nangal Pannuwan in Amritsar and Amandeep Singh, a resident of Indra Colony in Amritsar.

          DGP Gaurav Yadav said that the recovered grenades bear markings of Pakistan Ordnance Factory (POF), indicating cross-border linkages.

          The DGP said that preliminary investigation has revealed that the module was involved in systematic targeting of police establishments across multiple states, which has now been successfully averted. Efforts are ongoing  to identify, track, and apprehend other members of the module, he added.

          Sharing operational details, AIG State Special Operations Cell (SSOC) Amritsar Sukhminder Singh Mann said that in an intelligence led operation, police teams from SSOC arrested Sarabjit Singh and Amandeep Singh, and recovered hand grenades and pistol from their possession.

          The AIG said that preliminary investigations revealed that the key operative and primary contact of PIOs in the group, Bikramjit Singh was operating from Deesa in Gujarat. The information was immediately shared with ATS Gujarat and with their active cooperation, accused Bikramjit Singh was arrested by a team of SSOC Amritsar, he said.

          AIG Sukhminder Mann said that during investigation it was revealed that all accused were in touch with PIOs via social media platforms. Probe has also revealed that acting on directions from ISI handlers, the group was also planning to carry out grenade attacks on various Police establishments in Punjab and other states, he added.

          In this regard, a case FIR No. 21 dated 03-04-2026 has been registered under section 4 of the Explosive Substances (Amendment) Act, section 25 of the Arms Act, and section 61(2) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) at Police Station SSOC Amritsar.

PUNJAB’S Rs 1388-CR ANNUAL AGRICULTURE ACTION PLAN TARGETS GROWTH & SUSTAINABILITY: GURMEET KHUDIAN

Chandigarh, April 6:

In a major push to transform state’s agrarian landscape, Chief Minister S Bhagwant Singh Mann led Punjab Government has finalised an annual action plan of Rs 1,388 crore to execute various projects of the Agriculture Department for FY 2026-27, informed S. Gurmeet Singh Khudian, Minister of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare.

Chairing a high-level meeting to review projects at his office here on Monday, S. Khudian said that the action plan, which has already been submitted to the Union Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare for approval, lays special emphasis on crop residue management, water conservation, diversification, and natural farming.

The single largest outlay of Rs 600 crore has been allocated under the Crop Residue Management (CRM) scheme to tackle the issue of farm fires, informed the Agriculture Minister, while stating, “Our goal is to provide in-situ and ex-situ machinery to farmers at subsidised rates to ensure a permanent solution to stubble burning.”

To address depleting water tables, Rs 33.33 crore has been earmarked for the ‘Per Drop More Crop’ component, which will promote efficient water application devices like drips, sprinklers and rain guns. Meanwhile, Rs 51.85 crore will go towards seed improvement and cotton demonstration projects, and Rs 95 crore has been kept under the Sub-Mission on Agricultural Mechanisation (SMAM) to boost farm efficiency.

The Agriculture Minister highlighted that Rs 50.30 crore has been set aside for crop diversification to steer farmers away from water-guzzling paddy towards maize, pulses and oilseeds. In line with the national push for chemical-free agriculture, Rs 8.25 crore has been proposed for natural farming. Additionally, Rs 4.17 crore will support Atmanirbharata in pulses.

Other key allocations include Rs 20 crore for soil health and fertility management, Rs 60.59 crore for agricultural extension activities. These integrated interventions will not only raise farm incomes but also secure Punjab’s ecological future, S. Khudian asserted.

S. Gurmeet Singh Khudian directed the department officials to gear up for the upcoming kharif season, emphasising timely preparation and implementation of plans.

Akalis haven’t given up their habit of looting Punjab; they were caught stealing electricity at rally: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann

PATIALA; 6 April 2026:

Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann on Monday sharpened his attack on the Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD), stating that leaders who were caught stealing electricity at a public rally have not abandoned their habit of looting Punjab, and warned that even out of power they continue such acts, raising serious concerns about the damage they would inflict if they returned to government. Calling them habitual offenders who earlier looted sand and buses and are now resorting to power theft, he said such conduct reflects their entrenched mindset of exploiting public resources.

Building on this, the Chief Minister on Monday called upon people to socially boycott leaders of the Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD), asserting that those responsible for beadbi (sacrilege) and atrocities against the people must be held accountable.

Addressing a gathering in Patiala, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “These people bruised the psyche of every common man by allowing the sacrilege of Sri Guru Granth Sahib ji during their regime. These traitors can never be forgiven as they are responsible for desecration of Sri Guru Granth Sahib and their hands were drenched with the blood of innocent masses.”

He added, “Support to Akali Dal means consent to bring back an era of sacrilege of Sri Guru Granth Sahib ji, firing on innocent protestors, and atrocities on the common man.”

Calling for firm public action, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “Those who have ruined the generations of the state and were responsible for sacrilege of Sri Guru Granth Sahib ji deserve no leniency and must be taught a lesson. Social boycott of these leaders is the need of the hour so that they are not able to cause any further loss to the state and its people.” He wondered how some people, due to vested interests, were raising slogans in favour of such leaders despite their actions.

Highlighting the political functioning of the Akali leadership, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann asserted, “These people have always mixed politics and religion for their vested interests and have always undermined the authority of Sri Akal Takht Sahib.” Citing examples, he added, “Jathedars are appointed and ousted as per the whims and fancies of the Akali leadership, giving a severe blow to their position.”

Taking a dig at the Akali Dal’s so-called ‘Punjab Bachao Yatra’, he remarked, “The so-called Punjab Bachao Yatra is actually a ‘Parivar Bachao Yatra’. After looting the state for 15 years, they must explain from whom they are trying to save Punjab.”

CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “The Akalis have plundered the state mercilessly, bruised the psyche of Punjabis emotionally, and patronised several mafias in the state. The Akali leadership can never be forgiven as it was responsible for the genocide of several generations of the state as the drug trade was patronised by them and flourished during their long era of misrule.”

Referring to Sukhbir Singh Badal, he added, “Sukhbir Singh Badal frequently defames AAP karyakartas because they raise the voice of the people.”

Continuing his criticism, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “These people became affluent and amassed huge wealth by usurping facilities meant for the common man. The former Deputy Chief Minister has forgotten that the state deteriorated during their long misrule when the mafia ruled the roost.” He further added, “Even late Parkash Singh Badal had never made Sukhbir the head of the state as he knew the former Deputy Chief Minister would put the state in disarray.”

Targeting priorities of the opposition, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “Instead of talking about education and welfare schemes, Sukhbir is talking about buffaloes, which reflects his myopic mindset that he does not want the youth of the state to become officers.”

He added, “The Akali leader is begging for one chance from the people, probably forgetting that they were given a chance five times. Instead of serving the people, they looted the masses and the state, due to which they were shown the door by the people.”

Referring to a recent incident, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “At a function in Sri Muktsar Sahib, the Akali leadership was caught stealing power, and the state government will lodge a case against them. What welfare can be expected from such people who indulge in petty crimes like power theft?” He contrasted this by stating that his government is making strenuous efforts for the well-being of every section of society.

CM Bhagwant Singh Mann further said, “Sukhbir Singh Badal is a convent-educated political leader who is not aware of the basic topography of Punjab but wants to attain political power in the state. These leaders plundered the state mercilessly and minted money illegally during their days in power. They deserve no mercy as they derailed the development of the state for their vested political interests.”

He added, “These people have only ‘one-way’ pockets as they acquire money through illegal means rather than giving it to the people. The former Deputy Chief Minister distributed money from Golaks during floods rather than from his own business.” He further remarked, “The former Deputy Chief Minister is totally ignorant about the history, topography, and culture of the state and cannot even differentiate between crops.”

Taking aim at traditional political parties, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “The Congress and Akali Dal acted like termites that ruined the state after independence, causing Punjab to lag behind in development. They damaged the state economically, socially, politically, and even religiously, but Punjab is now back on the right track due to the steps taken by our government.”

Highlighting the social impact of past policies, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “Due to the wrong policies of these leaders, youth got addicted to drugs and many left the country in search of better opportunities. These parties only wait for their turn in power to plunder the wealth of the state. They are never concerned about the welfare of people and only seek to satisfy their lust for power.”

Drawing a contrast in governance approach, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “From our stage, we speak about education, health, power, agriculture, and other sectors, whereas other parties focus only on grabbing power. These opportunist leaders are baffled as people are not responding to them because their agenda is limited to their families rather than the public.” He added that people had elected the AAP due to the incompetence and misrule of previous governments.

Referring again to opposition parties, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “These traditional parties have never been loyal to Punjab and its people. They are envious because AAP has set the agenda of welfare of the common people.” He quipped that the Congress leadership is a divided house, stating that more leaders are seen on stage than karyakartas in their rallies, and added that they lack vision for Punjab.

Emphasising long-term solutions, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann asserted, “No freebie or concession can eliminate poverty or social evils; education is the key to lifting people out of this cycle by improving their standard of living.” He added, “Education is the light that dispels darkness, and that is why the government is focusing on transforming government schools, leading to improved student performance.”

On power and agriculture, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “For the first time in the state’s history, more than eight hours of uninterrupted power was supplied to farm tube wells during the paddy season, and farmers are now receiving daytime electricity, transforming their lives.” He reiterated that every penny of public money is being used judiciously for welfare.

Highlighting investment and healthcare, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “The best parameter of law and order is investment, and the fact that Tata Steel has set up its second-largest plant in Punjab reflects confidence in the state.” He added, “Under Mukh Mantri Sehat Yojna, health cards are being issued to 65 lakh families, entitling them to free treatment up to ₹10 lakh, with over 30 lakh beneficiaries already covered.”

He further said, “Around 1.65 lakh people have already received free treatment under the scheme, and people should take maximum benefit of these cards. Tax money belongs to the people and is being spent on their welfare through development, schools, hospitals, and roads.” He added that the government has provided free electricity to 90% of households, created over 65,000 government jobs without corruption, improved roads, closed toll plazas saving ₹70 lakh daily, and is strengthening infrastructure.

On social welfare measures, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “Under Mawan Dheeyan Satkar Yojna, every woman will receive ₹1,000 per month and ₹1,500 for women belonging to Scheduled Castes, with direct transfer to bank accounts. Women already receiving social security pensions will also be eligible.” He added, “Around 97% of women in Punjab are expected to benefit, and ₹9,300 crore has been allocated in the budget.”

Responding to critics, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “Those mocking this scheme or raising baseless questions do not understand the value of ₹1,000 for a common person. Those who spend more than ₹5,000 per meal from illegally earned money do not value this support, which is crucial for households that struggle even during festivals.” He added that such affluent leaders are disconnected from the realities of ordinary families.

Cabinet Ministers Harpal Singh Cheema, Aman Arora, Lal Chand Kataruchak, Harbhajan Singh ETO, Barinder Goyal, Tarunpreet Singh Sondh, and Hardeep Singh Mundian, along with Vice Chancellor Maharaja Bhupinder Singh Punjab Sports University Dr. Pushpinder Singh Gill, were also present on the occasion.

Punjab’s Power department, once running in losses, is now in profit even after providing free electricity to 90% of households for past 4 years: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann

CHANDIGARH; 6 April 2026:

Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann on Monday asserted that Punjab’s power sector has undergone a structural turnaround under the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government, with the once loss-making department now recording profits even while providing free electricity to 90% of households. He highlighted that the government not only ensured zero electricity bills for the majority of families through 600 units of free power, but also reversed the earlier trend of selling public assets by acquiring the 540 MW Govindwal Thermal Power Plant and significantly improving its efficiency.

The Chief Minister underlined that tariffs have been reduced across categories including commercial and industrial consumers, farmers are receiving uninterrupted power supply, and infrastructure has been strengthened through new substations and transformers. Emphasising employment generation, he noted that 9,593 youth have been given jobs in the power sector with recruitment for 1,750 more posts underway, while the Punjab Power Department (PSPCL) has secured an A+ rating, ranking second nationally, reflecting the government’s push to make Punjab self-reliant in power while guaranteeing free and 24×7 electricity for the people.

Addressing a press conference, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “The AAP government has set a new record by providing cheap and uninterrupted power supply to every sector. For the first time, power is being supplied regularly to people without additional financial burden,” said CM Bhagwant Singh Mann. He added, “When we assumed office, only 22% canal water was being used for irrigation, but today 78% is being utilised, and it will be enhanced to 90% by the coming paddy season.”

Highlighting irrigation reforms, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann asserted, “Bhakra Canal has a capacity of 9,500 cusecs, but due to our efforts, 11,000 cusecs of canal water is now being supplied to farmers. In a way, Punjab has created a new Bhakra canal without acquiring even a single inch of land.” He added, “For the first time, every single drop of water is being accounted for, boosting agricultural productivity, and free power to the agriculture sector will continue without any review.”

On power supply, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “For the first time, farmers received more than eight hours of power supply during paddy season, with 95% supply ensured during daytime.” He further added, “300 units of free electricity per month are being provided to domestic consumers, and around 90% of households are receiving zero electricity bills.”

Detailing employment generation, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann asserted, “Since April 2022, around 9,593 employees have been recruited in PSPCL and PSTCL, including 8,014 direct recruitments and 1,579 jobs on compassionate grounds.” He added, “Recruitment for 1,181 posts in PSPCL and 569 in PSTCL is underway and will be completed by June 2026.”

Highlighting record achievements, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “Punjab met a peak power demand of 16,670 MW on June 5, 2025, surpassing the previous record of 16,058 MW on June 29, 2024.” He added, “While public assets are being privatised elsewhere, the Punjab Government acquired a private thermal plant at a cost of ₹1,080 crore, setting a new benchmark.”

Referring to the acquisition, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “A new plant of similar capacity would cost ₹4,320 crore, making this the cheapest deal by any government. The plant earlier known as GVK Thermal Power Plant has been renamed after Sri Guru Amar Das Ji.” He added, “Since its acquisition in February 2024, the Guru Amar Das Thermal Plant at Goindwal Sahib has improved significantly, with PLF rising from 34% to 65% in FY 2024–25, touching 90% in July 2024 and 82% in July 2025.”

On infrastructure and fuel supply, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “Transmission capacity has increased from 7,400/8,000 MW to 10,400/10,900 MW, enabling higher power import from the national grid.” He added, “Coal supply from Pachwara Coal Mine has resumed, supplying 70 lakh metric tonnes in 2024–25 and saving ₹1,462 crore since October 2022.”

He further affirmed, “There is no coal shortage in any thermal plant, with Ropar having 41 days stock, Lehra Mohabbat 37 days, and Goindwal Sahib 32 days.” He added that the 206 MW Shahpur Kandi Hydel Project is expected to begin generation by May 2027, with ₹5,192.51 crore already spent till September 2025.

Promoting clean energy, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “The share of green energy will be increased from 20% to 80% in the next six years.” He added, “2,720 MW solar power has been tied up at ₹2.33–₹2.97 per unit, compared to ₹15.20 per unit during previous regimes.” He further stated, “2,062 MW solar is under implementation, 658 MW has been commissioned, and 581 MW rooftop solar has been installed.”

Detailing network strengthening, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann asserted, “26 new 66 KV substations have been set up, 194 transformers upgraded, 34 new added, with 2,738 MVA capacity addition and 337 circuit km of new lines.”

Announcing a new initiative, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “The government will soon launch a scheme to put high-tension wires passing through farmers’ fields underground, starting from my native village where 413 tube wells and 1,100 बिजली poles are spread across 2,000 acres.” He added, “This will reduce risk to farmers and their crops and provide major relief.”

On law and order, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “Punjab Police is being upgraded to tackle cybercrime effectively, and strict action will be taken against black sheep colluding with drug smugglers.” He added that following complaints in Bathinda, police personnel at a station had been transferred.

Addressing farmers’ concerns, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann asserted, “Special Girdawari has been ordered to assess wheat crop damage due to recent weather, and compensation will be provided as per norms after reports from Deputy Commissioners.” He assured, “The government is committed to safeguarding farmers’ interests and will compensate losses caused by natural calamities.”

Cabinet Minister Sanjeev Arora and others were also present on the occasion.

DAY 76 OF GANGSTRAN TE VAAR: PUNJAB POLICE CONDUCTS 322 RAIDS; 133 HELD

CHANDIGARH, April 6:

          As the decisive ‘Gangstran Te Vaar’ campaign launched under the directions of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann enters its 76th day, Punjab Police on Monday conducted 322 raids at the at identified and mapped locations linked to associates of gangsters across the state.

          As per the information, the “Gangstran Te Vaar”— a decisive war to make Punjab a gangster-free state was launched by the Director General of Police (DGP) Punjab Gaurav Yadav on January 20, 2026. Police teams from all the districts in coordination with Anti-Gangster Task Force (AGTF) Punjab has been conducting special operations across the state.

          On Day 76, Police teams arrested 133 individuals after recovering two weapons, taking the total arrests to 19,248 since the launch of the campaign.

 Apart from this, preventive action has been taken against 43 persons, whereas, 46 persons were verified and released after questioning. Police teams have also arrested two proclaimed offenders (POs) during the operation.

          People can anonymously report information related to wanted criminals and gangsters, and also share tips on crime and criminal activity, through the Anti Gangster Helpline number 93946-93946.

          Meanwhile, Police teams have continued its drive against drugs “Yudh Nashian Virudh” for 401st day with 101 drug smugglers arrested on Monday and recovered 265 grams heroin, 2 kg opium, 581 intoxicant tablets/capsules and Rs 10.54 lakhs drug money from their possession. With this, the number of total drug smugglers arrested has reached to 57,321 in just 401 days. As part of De-addiction, the Punjab Police has convinced 17 persons to undergo de-addiction and rehabilitation treatment today.