IEP Chandigarh, February 6

At the 37th Surajkund International Crafts Mela, the ‘Haryanvi Pagdi’ has become a major attraction for tourists in the Virasat Cultural Exhibition. Visitors of all ages are being drawn to the cultural exhibition organised by Virasat at ‘Haryana ka Apna Ghar’ through ‘Pagdi Bandhao, Photo Khinchao’.

Director, Virasat, Dr. Mahasingh Poonia said that the ‘Haryanvi Pagdi’ is gaining popularity at the mela, especially on social media where people are posting selfies with Haryanvi traditional hookahs, wearing Pagdis, and posing with ‘Haryana ka Apna Ghar’.

He noted that on the second day of the fair, Smt. Sudesh Dhankar, wife of the Vice President Sh.Jagdeep Dhankar, also visited the fair and wore the ‘Pagdi’.

He said that the heritage exhibition at ‘Apna Ghar’ in the fairgrounds is currently spreading the message of Haryanvi culture to every tourist.

IEP Chandigarh, February 6

Haryana Chief Secretary, Mr. Sanjeev Kaushal, directed the formation of coordination committees comprising officials from various departments, including Development and Panchayats, Irrigation and Water Resources, HSVP, Public Health Engineering, and Municipal Corporations/Committees in every district. The purpose of these committees is to strengthen coordination and collaboration among departments for effective pollution control measures. Additionally, a complete ban on discharging sewerage water into drains in Rohtak, Panipat, and Karnal districts was mandated, along with a survey of their tap points.

Presiding over a meeting aimed at curbing pollution caused by sewerage water, the Chief Secretary stated that the government has prepared an action plan to address the treatment and diversion of 32.7 MLD (Million Liters per Day) of sewage generated across 80 villages in Panipat district. He emphasized the need for a transparent mechanism to ensure the timely completion of this crucial work. As part of this initiative, sewage treatment has been successfully implemented using a three-tier pond system in 38 villages, while purification processes are currently underway in 42 other villages. Scheduled for completion by December 2024, this project underscores the government’s dedication to efficient wastewater management in the area. Additionally, efforts are being made to improve the existing sewage treatment infrastructure. Notably, the expansion of the sewage treatment plant in Samalkha, Panipat, with a capacity of 5 MLD, is underway to ensure compliance with solid waste discharge standards, anticipated to be finished by December 2024.

He said that the state government  is  taking all measures to  extend the sewerage network in these areas. Of the proposed 328 kilometers of sewer lines in Panipat district, about 262 kilometers have been laid, with the remainder scheduled for completion by December 2024.

The Chief Secretary highlighted that, in line with sustainable water management practices, a framework has been prepared to reuse treated sewage water for micro-irrigation purposes across the state. Implementation of Phase-I of the Project on Reuse of Treated Wastewater for Irrigation Purpose through Micro-Irrigation, focusing on the STP at Jattal Road, Panipat, is underway. Phase-II initiatives aim at further enhancing irrigation practices and environmental sustainability.

The Irrigation Department is actively driving these efforts to ensure the efficient reuse of treated wastewater across the district. Additionally, a comprehensive action plan has been launched to address untreated sources flowing into drains in Panipat. The officials were directed to identify critical points requiring immediate intervention as per the action plan’s directives. The plan delineates specific measures and timelines to tackle untreated waste sources at various locations within Panipat. Efforts include diverting water from various points into existing sewage treatment plants and laying sewer lines under the Amrit Project. Critical areas such as Gharaunda, Nohra, Siwah, Shimla Drain, Drain No. 2, 3, and 4 will be assessed, with untreated waste sources identified and addressed, he added.

Additional Chief Secretary, Industries and Commerce Department, Anand Mohan Sharan, Additional Chief Secretary, Environment, Vineet Garg, Additional Chief Secretary, Town and Country Planning, Arun Kumar Gupta, and Commissioner and Secretary, Local Bodies, Shri Vikas Gupta, and other senior officers were present in the meeting.

IEP Chandigarh

Haryana Chief Minister, Sh Manohar Lal, while emphasizing the importance of character building, said that character building is essential before the physical (infrastructure) development. Once character building is ensured, physical (infrastructure) development will automatically follow. No one had earlier thought  that any government would focus on character building.

Sh. Manohar Lal was addressing the officers of Indian Administrative Service, Indian Police Service and Haryana Civil Service during the ‘Ethics Conclave’ organized under Mission Karmayogi in Panchkula today.

He said that Prime Minister Sh Narendra Modi has initiated Mission Karmayogi to instill the spirit of morality in government officers and employees. It is the responsibility of the officers and employees to boost people’s confidence in the system. He acknowledged that eliminating the feeling of distrust among the people is a big challenge, but officials can meet public aspirations by bringing about change in their vision and working style. Mission Karmayogi aims to awaken the spirit of social service with determination, strength, and morale among officers and employees. If they truly become Karmayogis and dedicate themselves to society, they will attain spiritual satisfaction, he added.

The Chief Minister mentioned that when he assumed office in 2014, he harboured numerous questions regarding governance and the conduct of officers/employees. Despite the presence of many well-intentioned individuals in the government, he recognized the necessity for change and several initiatives towards systemic reform were launched on the first Good Governance Day on December 25, 2015. Over the past nine and a half years, numerous successful endeavours have been undertaken in pursuit of good governance. However, still much more needs to be done, and officers and employees can play a vital role in this direction.

Morality is paramount in our ideology – Chief Minister

The Chief Minister said that we are fortunate that we have got the opportunity to serve the public under the leadership and guidance of Prime Minister Sh Narendra Modi. He said that the Prime Minister and he himself come from an ideology where morality is paramount. Taking initiative, Prime Minister Sh Narendra Modi first worked to improve the image of politicians. It is a matter of great pride that the Prime Minister has not only followed it himself but has also ensured a sense of ethics in his entire team. He recalled that the former Prime Minister had once said that out of one rupee send from Delhi, only 15 paise reaches the bottom and the rest goes here and there. But today every penny sent by the government is being utilised on development works.

Sh Manohar Lal said that upon assuming office in Haryana, the foremost priority was to eradicate all forms of discrimination and promote equitable development across the state in line with the ethos of “Haryana Ek-Haryanvi Ek.” Referring to the practices of previous administrations, Sh Manohar Lal said that the earlier Chief Ministers used to focus only on the development of their respective districts. He made it clear that those who act against rules and laws will not be tolerated.

In his address to the officers, the Chief Minister underscored the government’s commitment to enhance the living standard of the people through the pursuit of seven ‘S’ – Shiksha, Swasthya, Suraksha, Swabhiman, Swavlamban, Sushasan, and Sewa. He urged all officers to align their efforts towards achieving these seven ‘S’, emphasizing that such endeavors would contribute to societal well-being. He highlighted the successful endeavours aimed at eradicating the three ‘C’s – crime, corruption, and caste-based politics. He said that training of over 2 lakh employees and officers has been completed, with a target of 3.5 lakh employees receiving Karmayogi training by March 31, 2024.

The Chief Minister urged Director General of HIPA, Smt. Chandralekha Banerjee, to incorporate the training module of Mission Karmayogi into the curriculum of HIPA.

Sudhanshu Maharaj described CM as a Karmayogi

Earlier, Sudhanshu Ji Maharaj described Chief Minister Sh Manohar Lal as a Karmayogi, expressing deep satisfaction and admiration for the Chief Minister’s simplicity and approachability. He said that although he seldom interacts with politicians, But Chief Minister Sh Manohar Lal seems more like ‘apne’ than a leader. Encouraging the officers, he urged them to embody Karmayoga in their nature, asserting that true fulfillment as a Karmayogi is attained by integrating it into one’s life. He said that the present moment offers an opportunity for officers to script a legacy that future generations can emulate.

On this occasion, Chief Secretary Sh Sanjeev Kaushal expressed pride in Haryana being the first state in the country where every employee and officer receives training on ethics. He said that the aim of Mission Karmayogi is to enhance the skills and efficiency of officers and employees while also fostering greater accountability towards society. He stressed the importance of being accountable for public actions and decisions, ensuring that every task performed and decision made has a positive impact on the general public.

Principal Secretary to the Chief Minister, Mr. V. Umashankar, Director General of HIPA, Mrs. Chandralekha Banerjee and officers of civil and police administration from across the state were also present in the conclave.

IEP Chandigarh, February 6

At the 37th Surajkund International Crafts Mela, Sh.Rajender Bondwal, member of the renowned artisan family from Bahadurgarh, Haryana has been in the spotlight for his majestic craftsman skills and products. The family has been making its place at both national and international level for decades now. Skilled in sandalwood, kadam and other fine varieties of wood, the Bondwal family has been actively promoting the traditional artistry. The artworks of artisan RajenderBondwal are leaving unique impressions on the visitors in the international Mela. 

Sh.Rajender Bondwal has been allotted stall no.1245 in the fair and is attracting lots of visitors by his unique and magnificent art crafts including bracelets, lockets, toys etc.crafted on sandalwood. 

It is noteworthy that the government of India has awarded more than half a dozen artists from Haryana with national awards out of which 4 have been awarded to the Bondwal family itself.

Sh. Rajender Bondwal said that the demand for artefacts in this modern era is not only in India but also in foreign countries.

Honoured by the Shilp Guru award by the then president

Renowned artist Rajender Bondwal, who mesmerises visitors with his artistry at the Surajkund fair, has been awarded with the Shilp Guru award in 2015 by the then honourable president for creating extremely delicate birds and flowers on a wooden frame. Additionally Sh. Bondwal have been to North Africa for two years, sent by the government to demonstrate ITI students about wood craftsmanship.

IEP Chandigarh, February 6

The work of Deenbandhu Chhotu Ram Thermal Power Plant in Yamunanagar, with a capacity of 800 megawatts, to commence soon. This project will help ensure uninterrupted power supply for the citizens of Haryana.

Haryana Chief Minister, Sh. Manohar Lal while chairing the meeting of High Powered Works Purchase Committee (HPWPC) held late last evening gave the approval for allocating the tender for the construction of the new 800-megawatt capacity Deenbandhu Chhotu Ram Thermal Power Plant in Yamunanagar to Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited (BHEL) at a cost of Rs 6,900 crore. BHEL will complete this project within a period of 57 months. Energy Minister, Sh. Ranjit Singh also remained present in the meeting.

During the meeting, the officers of Haryana Power Generation Corporation Limited (HPGCL) apprised the Chief Minister that this plant will have an ultra-supercritical unit installed, whereas so far only sub-critical units have been installed. It has 8 percent more capacity than the previously installed units. This will reduce coal consumption and make electricity cheaper. Provision has also been made to install all devices to control pollution.

Additional Chief Secretary, Energy Department, Sh. Apoorva Kumar Singh, Principal Secretary to Chief Minister, Sh. V. Umashankar, Chairman, Haryana Power Generation Corporation Limited, Sh. P.K. Das, Managing Director, Haryana Power Generation Corporation Limited, Sh. Mohammed Shayin and other senior officers were also present at the meeting.

IEP Chandigarh, February 6

The Chief Electoral Officer, Haryana, Sh. Anurag Agarwal issued directions to all Deputy Commissioner-cum-District Election Officers to promptly designate Sectoral Officers/Supervisors in their respective areas for the upcoming Lok Sabha elections-2024. Besides this, they have been directed to coordinate with the District Police Officers to ensure smooth routes for their inspection visits to polling stations during the election process.

Sh. Anurag Agarwal while chairing the meeting of Deputy Commissioner-cum-District Election Officers held  through video conference late last evening said that they should prepare District Election Plans for their respective districts in accordance with the Election Planner issued by the Election Commission of India.

He further directed that all District Election Officers should meet with representatives of recognised national and state political parties at least once every 15 days, and the Electoral Registration Officer should hold weekly meetings to facilitate coordination. He emphasized the swift resolution of pending forms.

Sh. Anurag Agarwal emphasized the goal of increasing the voter turnout percentage compared to the previous Lok Sabha elections. The Election Commission’s aim is to ensure that eligible voters aged 18 and above are included in the voter list and do not miss the opportunity to vote.

He said that the Election Commission has appointed actor Rajkumar Rao as the election icon. At the district level, Election Officers should focus on innovation, mascots, and icons, ensuring they are non-political individuals. He urged for a minimum of 75 percent voter turnout in the upcoming Lok Sabha elections in Haryana.

Sh. Anurag Agarwal that District Election Officers should operate a helpline number (1950) in their respective districts. In the meeting, Additional Chief Electoral Officer, Smt.  Hema Sharma, Joint Chief Electoral Officer, Sh. Apurv, and Sh. Rajkumar were also present.

IEP Chandigarh, February 6

Haryana Deputy Chief Minister, Sh. Dushyant Chautala said that the Civil Aviation Department has achieved significant milestones in the past four years. He shared about the major project of the state, Hisar Aviation Hub, stating that recently an aviation-related conference “Wings India-2024” was held in Hyderabad where three MoUs were signed.

The first MoU was with the Airports Authority of India. Under this agreement, the Airport Authority of India will manage equipment, functioning, and technical support at the airport. The second MoU was between Pawan Hans Limited, the Government of India, and the Government of Haryana. For this, the Civil Aviation Department of Haryana has provided 30 acres of land to the Indian government through HSIIDC, shared Sh. Dushyant Chautala.

He said that this land is adjacent to the Dwarka Expressway in Gurugram, where the country’s largest heli-hub will be established. He mentioned that this heli-hub will be just 13 kilometres away from the Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi. This heli-hub will provide facilities such as helicopter taxi service, private charter, and medical ambulance services to the entire northern region of India as an epicentre, informed the Deputy Chief Minister.

Divulging more details about the third MoU, Sh. Dushyant Chautala said that MoU was done between Alliance Air Company and the Government of Haryana. He said that nine air routes have been identified in the state, where flights will be operated by the said company based on the VGF (Viability Gap Funding) scheme. Two flights from Hisar will fly three days a week, shared the Deputy Chief Minister.

He said that after the construction of a civil terminal in Ambala, air services will start from there as well. He also mentioned that representatives of other major airlines in the country, such as Akasa, IndiGo, and SpiceJet, have expressed their desire to utilise Hisar Airport for parking, similar to Chandigarh Airport. As air traffic at Delhi International Airport is increasing day by day, Hisar Airport will prove to be a beneficial option for night-time aircraft parking, informed Sh. Dushyant Chautala.

IEP Chandigarh

The Haryana government has given relaxation in the process of character and antecedent verification for selected candidates before their first appointment to government service.

In a letter addressed to all Administrative Secretaries , Heads of Department  including Managing Directors, Chief Administrators, Divisional Commissioners, Deputy Commissioners, and Registrars of Universities in the state, the Chief Secretary, Mr. Sanjeev Kaushal, stated that candidates recommended by the Haryana Staff Selection Commission (HSSC) and Haryana Public Service Commission (HPSC) for appointments up to June 30, 2024, may now be appointed provisionally without prior verification of character, antecedents, as well as  all documents deemed necessary for appointment.

The letter further  added that the verification process, including character, antecedents, and all other essential documents required for final appointment, must be completed within a period of two months after their provisional appointment.