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Chandigarh, Haryana

Knowledge of Bhagavad Gita offers solutions to every human problem: CM

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Chandigarh, December 7

Haryana Chief Minister, Sh. Nayab Singh Saini on Saturday  participated  in the evening Maha Aarti at the Brahma Sarovar, Purushottampura Bagh in  Kurukshetra.

Later interacting with the devotees present during the evening aarti, the Chief Minister said that the teachings of Bhagavad Gita offer profound insights and practical guidance for navigating the complexities of life. He said that these teachings remain relevant even today, which is why the ongoing International Gita Mahotsav-2024 (IGM) in Kurukshetra holds significance globally.

He said that every year, IGM is celebrated with great tradition and enthusiasm by the Kurukshetra Development Board and various organizations on this holy land. Participating in the Evening Maha Aarti has been a deeply gratifying experience for me, said the Chief Minister.

The Chief Minister said that the sacred land of Jyotisar in Kurukshetra is where the world received the wisdom of the Holy Gita. The knowledge of Bhagavad Gita offers solutions to every human problem. Reciting the verses of the holy Bhagavad Gita not only brings peace of mind but also enhances our spiritual wisdom.  He said that bathing in Brahma Sarovar and Sannihit Sarovar during solar eclipses, Somvati Amavasya, and other auspicious occasions is said to bestow merits equivalent to thousands of yajnas.

Earlier speaking on the occasion, Heritage and  Tourism Minister, Dr. Arvind Sharma  said that due to the  dedicated efforts of the central and state governments, the IGM is being celebrated with great zeal across the globe. The series of programs organized as part of the IGM-2024 has provided the world with an opportunity to connect with the teachings of holy Bhagavad Gita.

He emphasized that Kurukshetra would be developed as a global tourism destination, and efforts would be made to complete all projects within the stipulated time frame. The state government is committed to realizing plans to establish this site as a world-renowned tourism hub, said Dr. Arvind Sharma.

Haryana

Vice President to Visit IGM today

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Chandigarh, December 7

The Vice President of India, Sh. Jagdeep Dhankhar will attend the International Gita Mahotsav-2024 being held in Kurukshetra on December 8. In view of the security of the arrival of VVIPs in this program, it is necessary to ban aerial devices like drones /gliders etc. in the venue and surrounding areas.

Sharing more details, Deputy Commissioner, Kurukshetra, Neha Singh said that orders have been issued under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023 (BNSS), in order to maintain law and order and peace from the security point of view, on December 8. No vehicle should be parked on both sides of the road within a radius of 100 meters on VIP Marg, NIT Kurukshetra, Bhadrakali Shaktipeeth and its surroundings. Besides this, there will be a complete ban on gathering of 5 or more persons in the area of 100 meters of the VIP route, carrying sticks, swords, axes, firearms and any other lethal weapon, open petrol, diesel bottles, cans, flying drones/gliders at the helipad site, the event venue on the VIP route and around it.

Deputy Commissioner, Neha Singh said that any kind of ‘dharna’ demonstration within a radius of 500 meters of the event venue and on both sides of the roads. Legal action will be implemented against those who disobey these orders under Section 223 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023.

Haryana

Governor Bandaru Dattatraya pays his tributes to brave hearts on Armed Forces Flag Day

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Chandigarh, December 7

Haryana Governor, Sh. Bandaru Dattatraya, on the occasion of the Armed Forces Flag Day today, paid his humble tribute to the indomitable courage and sacrifices of the men and women of the armed forces who have dedicated their lives to safeguarding the sovereignty and honour of our beloved nation.

Governor, Sh.Dattatraya acknowledged the heroic contributions of our valiant soldiers, both past and present, who have displayed unparalleled bravery and devotion to the country. He expressed profound gratitude towards the martyrs who made the ultimate sacrifice, ensuring that our tricolour continues to fly high.

Sh. Dattatraya has called upon the people of Haryana and the nation to come together in supporting the welfare of war-disabled soldiers, Veer Naris, and the families of our martyrs.

“Let us reaffirm our commitment to those who have given everything for our motherland by contributing generously to the Armed Forces Flag Day Fund. Your contributions will make a tangible difference in the lives of those who have borne the greatest burdens for the country’s safety and dignity,” said Sh. Dattatraya.

He emphasised that this day is not just a reminder of our gratitude but also a pledge to stand in solidarity with the Armed Forces and their families, who symbolises the spirit of sacrifice and patriotism.

On this solemn occasion, Sh.Dattatraya urged every citizen to wear the Armed Forces Flag with pride as a mark of respect and contribute meaningfully to the cause. “Let us honour our brave hearts not just in words but through our actions. Together, let us ensure their sacrifices are never forgotten,” he said.

Haryana

Education and good values are essential in life, Ranbir  Gangwa

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Chandigarh, December 7

Haryana Public Health Engineering and Public Works Minister, Sh. Ranbir Gangwa said that along with education, it is very important to have good values in life. After parents, teachers play a vital role in imparting values to children. Students should not only gain knowledge through education but also learn about their culture, and schools should effectively perform this role.

Sh. Gangwa said this while addressing students at the Annual Celebration Ceremony held at Newton Public School in Kaithal on Saturday.

He said that through education, one can achieve great success. The present state government is working to provide jobs to deserving youth based on merit. Now, youth get government jobs not through favouritism but through the strength of their education and merit. There is no shortcut to success in life, so students should study diligently, and success will certainly follow, he said. The Minister urged the students to stay away from drugs and raise awareness about it among the people around them.

Haryana

Union Health Minister launches 100-Days intensified TB Elimination Campaign from Panchkula

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Chandigarh, December 7

In a decisive step towards eliminating TB in India, Union Health and Family Welfare Minister, Sh. J.P. Nadda on Saturday launched the 100-day intensified nationwide campaign from Panchkula district in Haryana. The campaign will be implemented in 347 districts across the country. Haryana Chief Minister, Sh. Nayab Singh Saini, Cabinet Minister, Sh. Anil Vij, Health Minister, Kumari Aarti Singh Rao also remained present on this occasion.

Addressing the countrymen during the national-level event at Panchkula, Sh. J.P. Nadda said that under this campaign, the focus will be on TB-prone districts, and high-risk groups, ensuring comprehensive testing to prevent its spread.

Lauding  Haryana’s consistent focus and efforts on further strengthening healthcare infrastructure, Sh. J.P  Nadda said that due to the dedicated efforts made by the present state government, the number of medical colleges in Haryana has increased from 6 in 2014 to 15 today, with plans to establish one in every district under the leadership of Chief Minister, Sh. Nayab Singh Saini.  He said that even the MBBS seats have increased from 650 in 2014 to 2,185, while postgraduate seats have increased from 243 to 889.

The Union Minister said that India had only six AIIMS in 2014, compared to 22 today, with one under construction in Rewari, Haryana. Sh. J.P. Nadda further shared that under the Ayushman Bharat Scheme, 1.22 crore Ayushman cards have been issued in Haryana, facilitating 18.5 lakh hospital admissions. Haryana has spent Rs. 2,700 crore providing free healthcare to the underprivileged under this scheme,  which is a commendable achievement, he said.

Sh. J.P  Nadda said that the central government  gives free treatment up to Rs. 5 lakh for senior citizens above 70 years under the Ayushman Bharat Scheme. Haryana has issued 70,000 Vay Vandana cards as part of this initiative. Neonatal screening have risen from 63 percent to 85 percent, and institutional delivery have increased from 80 percent to 94 percent. Comprehensive immunization have improved from 79 percent to 92 percent.

Sh. J.P Nadda said that prime Minister, Sh. Narendra Modi envisions making India TB-free before achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by 2030. With renewed energy and momentum, this campaign has been initiated today.

He said that there is a significant reduction in TB cases, with the decline rate improving from 8.3 percent in 2015 to 17.7 percent  now. The World Health Organization has commended India’s progress in reducing TB prevalence and mortality rates, which have dropped by 21.4 percent in the last 10 years.

The Union Health Minister shared that many new strategies were adopted to make TB services patient-friendly and decentralized. He said that today early detection of TB has become possible because of the network of over 1.7 lakh Ayushman Arogya Mandirs across the country. He  said that by increasing the number of laboratories from 120 in 2014 to 8,293 laboratories today, a significant step has been taken  to scale up diagnostic services across the Country. He said that with the over 1.17 crore TB patients have received Ni-kshay support of Rs 3,338 crore. Besides this, the state government has recently increased the Ni-kshay poshan amount from Rs. 500 to Rs. 1000 and added energy boosters for the nourishment support for TB patients, said Sh. J.P Nadda.

The Union Health Minister said that to make this campaign successful, public participation is the key and we can make the TB Free India campaign successful only by ensuring active participation of  public representatives and making people aware.

During the program, Union Health Minister, Sh. J.P. Nadda, Chief Minister Sh. Nayab Singh Saini, and other dignitaries flagged off 10 Ni-kshay vehicles for Haryana and unveiled the poster for the 100-day intensive TB elimination campaign and launched IEC materials for public outreach.  Besides this, Ni-kshay  Mitras were also honored, and Ni-kshay  nutrition kits were distributed. TB champions who have successfully recovered from the disease were also felicitated.

Haryana

Haryana  has adopted “4Ts” strategy to eliminate TB

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Chandigarh, December 7

Haryana Chief Minister, Sh. Nayab Singh Saini while speaking at the  launch programme of the countrywide intensified 100 Day TB elimination campaign held at Panchkula on Saturday said that the government is working on “4Ts” to eliminate TB which are Test, Track, Treat and Technology. He said that intensified testing in the last 10 years has led to the identification of new TB cases and treatment of which is being given free of cost.

The Chief Minister urged the people to upload the data of every new TB case in the Ni-kshay portal which also provides timely updates to TB patients. He  said that the  state government is working with NGOs and civil society to further bolster its TB elimination efforts.

Meanwhile, the Chief Minister also expressed gratitude to Prime Minister, Sh. Narendra Modi and Union Health and Family Welfare Minister, Sh. J.P. Nadda for choosing Haryana to kickstart the intensified 100-day TB campaign.  He assured that Haryana would strive to play a prominent role in the fight against TB in India.

He said that under the leadership of Prime Minister, Sh. Narendra Modi, India started working against TB with a new mindset and approach after 2014, which is unprecedented. Over the past 10 years, India has fought against TB through the medium of successful campaigns like Jan Bhagidari, Ni-kshay Poshan Yojana, Fit India and Khelo India which are admired across the world. He said that the launch of the 100-day National Ni-kshay Camp for TB eradication will be a milestone in this effort.

Haryana is the second state to connect X-ray centres with Indian Plasma Research Institute through AI to eliminate TB, CM

The Chief Minister said that the Haryana government is providing even more advanced technology to eliminate TB. All existing X-ray centers are being connected with Indian Plasma Research Institute in Ahmedabad through AI to eliminate TB. Haryana is the second state in the country to implement this technology. Two state-of-the-art Micro Bacterial Culture and DST Labs have been set up  in Rohtak and Karnal. Besides this, a new lab is being set up in Ambala, shared Sh. Nayab Singh Saini. He said that through 59 mobile health vans, TB tests are being conducted in villages, slums, among daily wage workers, brick kiln workers, and farmers.

131 new DMCs are being opened for sample testing, CM

The Chief Minister said that if TB patients also suffer from other illnesses, the government provides free treatment for those as well. Four Nodal Drug-Resistant TB Centers have been established at PGIMS Rohtak, as well as at medical colleges in Karnal, Nuh, and Sonipat. In addition, District Nodal Drug-Resistant TB Centers have been set up in all 22 districts. All patient samples are sent to the nearest designated microscopy center for testing. The number of such centers in the state has increased from 358 to 428. Moreover, 131 new DMCs are being opened. Handheld X-rays with AI are being used in all districts of the state.

He further shared that all tests for TB diagnosis are being conducted free of charge. Patients are provided free treatment under the Ayushman scheme, both in the government and private sectors. So far, claims worth Rs. 29 crore of 17,500 TB patients have been settled. Even in cases where the patient is not eligible for the Ayushman scheme, free treatment is provided, said Sh. Nayab Singh Saini.

Target set to make approximately 1,800 TB-free Gram Panchayats this year, CM

The Chief Minister said that the positive results of the initiatives taken against TB are visible. More people are coming forward to get tested and treated for TB. In 2023, Haryana had 579 TB-free Gram Panchayats. This year, the target is to create approximately 1,800 TB-free Gram Panchayats. He further shared that the data of 79,652 patients from the state has been uploaded to the Ni-kshay portal. So far, 3.49 lakh patients have been provided financial assistance worth Rs. 117.46 crore under the Ni-kshay Poshan Yojana (NPY).

Under the campaign, as many TB patients as possible will be screened and provided treatment within the next 100 days, Kumari Arti Singh Rao

Earlier, speaking on the occasion, Haryana Health Minister, Kumari Arti Singh Rao said that the the regular screening and testing of the TB patients is already being done and now as a part of this newly launched Campaign, the screening, testing and ensuring timely treatment to maximum TB patients within the next 100 days will be further intensified. She further shared that the Central Government has increased the monthly allowance being given under Ni-kshay Poshan Yojana (NPY) for TB patients from Rs. 500 to Rs.1,000  so as to ensure they receive a nutritious diet.

She said that Ni-kshay vehicles were flagged off today by the Union Health Minister. Many people are unable to reach hospitals, and their TB remains undetected. These vehicles will reach such individuals, conduct sample testing, and provide treatment.

On this occasion, Haryana Cabinet Minister, Sh. Anil Vij, BJP State President Sh. Mohan Lal Badoli, MLA, Smt. Shakti Rani Sharma,  officers , doctors, and  people associated with healthcare services, were also present.

Haryana

Ahead of Prime Minister’s visit in Panipat, Chief Minister reviews preparations

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Chandigarh December 7

Haryana Chief Minister, Sh. Nayab Singh Saini on Saturday reviewed preparations being made at Panipat ahead of Prime Minister, Sh. Narendra Modi’s visit on December 9. Prime Minister, Sh. Narendra Modi will be launching the Bima Sakhi Yojana from Panipat.

During the review, the Chief Minister held meetings with officers and issued necessary directives. He said that the government has always been committed to women’s empowerment. The state is actively working towards empowering women. The Deputy Commissioner, Dr. Virender Kumar Dahiya assured the Chief Minister that all arrangements for the programme have been completed, making it a historic event.

The Chief Minister said that the nationwide Bima Sakhi Yojana inauguration programme will be a significant event dedicated to women empowerment. He said that in 2015, the Prime Minister  had given the impactful message of  ‘Beti Bachao-Beti Padhao’ from the historic city of Panipat only.

The Chief Minister said that the Bima Sakhi Yojana will certainly further give a major boost to women empowerment, create new employment opportunities, and enable them to progress further. Enhancing women’s living standards through self-help groups is a key priority of the government, he said.

He said that the passing of the Women’s Reservation Bill by Prime Minister, Sh. Narendra Modi’s government has further strengthened women’s position. He said that empowering women significantly contributes to the nation’s development.

The Chief Minister while interacting with the mediapersons reaffirmed the government’s robust efforts for farmers welfare. He said that despite attempts by some political parties to mislead farmers, they have not succeeded. The Prime Minister has implemented decisive and impactful measures in favor of farmers, empowering them and extending the benefits of government schemes, said Sh. Nayab Singh Saini.

Cabinet Ministers, Sh. Krishan Lal Panwar,  Sh. Mahipal Dhanda, Sh. Krishan Kumar Bedi, MLA, Sh.  Pramod Vij, former MP, Sh. Sanjay Bhatia also remained present during this.

Punjab

Post-Matric Scholarship Scheme: Rs. 59.34 crore disbursed to 256 institutions out of Rs. 92 crore: Dr. Baljit Kaur

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Chandigarh, December 7

          To provide financial assistance for the education of Scheduled Caste (SC) students, the Punjab Government has released Rs. 92 crore from the budget provisions for the year 2024-25 under the Post-Matric Scholarship for SC Students scheme. Additionally, Rs. 245 crore has been earmarked for scholarships for the year 2024-25. This announcement was made by Dr. Baljit Kaur, Minister for Social Justice, Empowerment and Minorities, during a press conference held today at Punjab Bhawan, Chandigarh.

          Divulging in this regards, Cabinet Minister Dr. Baljit Kaur stated that the Punjab Government had released Rs. 366 crore during the financial year 2023-24 to clear dues under the Post-Matric Scholarship for Scheduled Caste Students scheme for the years 2017-18 to 2019-20. Out of this, Rs. 283.62 crore has already been disbursed to 1008 institutions. The Minister also assured that the remaining institutions with pending dues will receive payments soon.

          The Cabinet Minister informed that Rs. 92 crore has been released to clear dues for government institutions and students from Punjab studying in institutions in other states. Out of this amount, Rs. 59.34 crore has already been disbursed to 256 institutions, and efforts are being expedited to distribute the remaining funds to other institutions.

          Additionally, the Cabinet Minister stated that Rs. 229.23 crore was released for students in the financial year 2023-24 and Rs. 245 crore has been earmarked for scholarships for students in the current financial year 2024-25.

          Cabinet Minister Dr. Baljit Kaur stated that between 2017 to 2020, the funds meant to be disbursed under the scholarship scheme for Scheduled Caste students were neither provided by the Central Government nor paid by the then Congress Government of Punjab. Due to such negligence by previous governments, colleges withheld the degrees of Scheduled Caste students.

          The Cabinet Minister mentioned that since the government led by Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann assumed office, it has been making every possible effort to ensure that there is no disruption in the education of Scheduled Caste students.

          She also appealed to the Central Government to release the pending share under the scholarship scheme at the earliest to avoid any hindrance in the education of Scheduled Caste students in Punjab. Furthermore, she informed that for the academic year 2024-25, nearly 2,31,000 students have newly registered under the scholarship scheme.

          The Minister stated that the responsibility of disbursing this amount to various government institutions and ensuring its proper utilization has been entrusted to the administrative department. This department will be accountable for the appropriate use of the funds. 

          The Cabinet Minister further emphasized that the Punjab Government is committed to the welfare and rights of Scheduled Caste students. Under this scheme, financial assistance for their education will be provided in a timely manner, ensuring continuity in their studies. This amount will serve as a significant support for their education.

          The Minister for Social Justice, Empowerment and Minorities stated that education is the most powerful tool for social transformation. She emphasized that the Punjab Government will ensure that no student is forced to abandon their studies due to financial constraints. She added that the Punjab Government,  is fully committed to the welfare of Scheduled Caste students. 

          The Cabinet Minister further said that the Punjab Government, led by Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, is not only dedicated to safeguarding the rights of Scheduled Caste students but is also actively working to turn this commitment into reality. She highlighted that the funds disbursed under the Post-Matric Scholarship Scheme will encourage students to pursue their education with interest and help them overcome financial challenges.

          The minister stated that the government is planning to launch several schemes not only to provide financial assistance but also to support the overall development of Scheduled Caste students. These efforts will not only aid students in the field of education but also help create employment opportunities, serving as a significant step toward turning their dreams into reality.

          Dr. Baljit Kaur stated that the Punjab Government is taking several significant steps under the Post-Matric Scholarship Scheme to promote the education of Scheduled Caste students. 

          On this occasion, the Director of the Department of Social Justice, Empowerment, and Minorities, Mr. Sandeep Hans and Deputy Director, Mr. Ravinderpal Singh Sandhu were also present.

Punjab

PUNJAB TO INSTALL 2356 AGRI SOLAR PUMPS WITHIN 4 MONTHS

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Chandigarh, December 7

          To harness the solar energy for greening the agriculture sector in the state, the Punjab Energy Development Agency (PEDA) will install 2,356 solar pumps dedicated to agricultural purposes.

          Punjab’s New and Renewable Energy Sources Minister, Mr. Aman Arora, handed over work orders to M/s. AVI Appliances Pvt. Ltd., M/s. PV Power Technologies Pvt. Ltd., and M/s. Himalayan Solar Pvt. Ltd. for the installation of 2,356 solar pumps for agricultural use in the state.

          Mr. Aman Arora informed that these companies were selected through a transparent and competitive bidding process. The installation of these pumps is expected to be completed within four months. A subsidy of 60% for general category farmers and 80% for the Scheduled Caste (SC) farmers is available for the solar pumps with capacities of 3, 5, 7.5, and 10 HP.

          In dark zones (over-exploited groundwater blocks), these pumps will be installed to farmers who already have micro irrigation systems, such as drip or sprinkler systems, installed on their bore-wells, he added.

          With the installation of these solar pumps, he said while adding that the farmers will no longer need to go to their farms at night for irrigation, as these pumps operate during the daytime. This will not only reduce fuel costs but also result in zero percent carbon emissions, promoting a more sustainable farming practice.

          Mr. Aman Arora also directed the PEDA officials to initiate dedicated efforts towards the installation of more agriculture solar pumps for the welfare of the farmers.

          Chief Executive Officer PEDA Mr. Sandeep Hans, Director Mr. M.P. Singh and representatives of all the respective companies were also present on the occasion.

Punjab

Dr. Ravjot Singh Distributes Appointment Letters to 85 Individuals under Mission Rozgar

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Chandigarh/Amritsar, December 7

          Under the Mission Rozgar launched by Punjab Chief Minister S. Bhagwant Singh Mann, today, the Punjab Minister for Local Government, Dr. Ravjot Singh, handed over appointment letters to 85 individuals at the Municipal Corporation office. Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Ravjot Singh expressed that the Punjab Government is committed to providing more employment opportunities for the youth. He highlighted that during the tenure of the current government, nearly 51,000 individuals have been provided with government jobs.

          Dr. Ravjot Singh, while handing over the appointment letters, urged the newly appointed employees to recognize their vital role in the social and economic development of Punjab. He emphasized that continuous hard work and dedication are essential to achieving success and attaining one’s life goals. He encouraged them to perform their duties with sincerity and honesty. Dr. Ravjot Singh stressed that these jobs have been given based on merit, without any recommendation, favoritism, or nepotism. He added that under Mission Rozgar, a total of 1,255 employees have been appointed in the Local Government Department, and the process is ongoing. He expressed hope that the new recruits would use their positions to assist the underprivileged and marginalized communities.

          On this occasion, the Minister for Local Government distributed appointment letters to 19 Executive officers, 18 drivers/operators, and 48 sanitation workers, Peons, and labourer

          Cabinet Minister, S. Kuldeep Singh Dhaliwal, congratulated the newly appointed employees, urging them to maintain cleanliness in the holy city, which attracts around 1.25 lakh pilgrims daily. He emphasized that it is their duty to keep the city clean and ensure a steady supply of clean water. S. Dhaliwal further stated that the Punjab Government is dedicated to the welfare of the common people and that jobs are being provided across all departments through a transparent recruitment process based solely on merit.

          Following the event, Cabinet Ministers Dr. Ravjot Singh, S. Kuldeep Singh Dhaliwal, and Commissioner of the Municipal Corporation, Mr. Gulpreet Singh, traveled by BRTS bus from the University to Bhandari Bridge. Dr. Ravjot Singh mentioned that the number of BRTS buses would be increased soon. He reassured that the government has sufficient funds to ensure the smooth operation of the BRTS system.

          The event was also attended by MLA Ajay Gupta, MLA S. Jasbeer Singh, MLA Inderbir Singh Nijjar, MLA Jeevanjot Kaur, SDM S. Mankawal Singh Chahal, AAP City President Mr. Munish Agarwal, Mr. Ravinder Hans, XEN Sandeep Singh, Dr. Kiran Kumar, and other officials.

Caption: Minister for Local Government, Punjab Dr. Ravjot Singh handing over appointment letters to newly appointed employees, accompanied by Cabinet Minister S. Kuldeep Singh Dhaliwal and others.

Minister for Local Government, Punjab Dr. Ravjot Singh and Cabinet Minister S. Kuldeep Singh Dhaliwal traveling by BRTS bus.