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CM Hands Over Keys to 2,709 Beneficiaries at Housing Allocation programme in Gurugram

Chandigarh, March 22 — Haryana Chief Minister Sh. Nayab Singh Saini on Sunday said that the state is playing a pivotal role in translating the national vision of ‘Viksit Bharat 2047’ into reality. He said the vision articulated by Prime Minister Sh. Narendra Modi reflects the aspirations of 140 crore citizens, and the Haryana Government is working consistently to implement it on the ground.

Addressing the Viksit Badshahpur Maharally and House allotment programme in village Kakrola (Badshahpur Assembly constituency, Gurugram), the Chief Minister said that Badshahpur has emerged as a strong example of this development journey, where promises have been effectively converted into concrete outcomes.

The event was presided over by Industries and Commerce Minister,  Rao Narbir Singh and organised in coordination with the Housing for All Department. On the occasion, the Chief Minister handed over keys of newly allotted houses to 2,709 beneficiaries, marking a significant step towards ensuring housing for all.

Badshahpur’s Transformation Reflects Government’s Commitment

Highlighting the region’s progress, the Chief Minister said that areas once deprived of basic amenities have today transformed into symbols of development. He emphasised that the government has not limited itself to announcements, but has ensured their effective implementation on the ground.

He informed that over the past 11 years, a total of 81 Chief Minister announcements were made for Badshahpur, out of which 60 have been completed, while 8 are in progress. Development projects worth Rs. 15,166 crore have been implemented in the area during this period, compared to just Rs. 967 crore spent during the previous government’s tenure. This, he said, reflects the present government’s clear vision and strong commitment to development.

Focus on Inclusive Development and Welfare in Third Term

The Chief Minister reiterated that in its third term, the Haryana Government remains firmly committed to holistic development and safeguarding the interests of every section of society. Referring to the allotment of houses during the auspicious occasion of Navratras, he described it as not just a government programme, but a symbol of the government’s dedication to public welfare.

He said that the spirit of Navratras, representing strength, energy, and prosperity, reinforces the government’s resolve to provide dignified housing to every needy family. The focus, he added, is not merely on launching schemes but on ensuring their time-bound implementation with tangible impact.

Referring to the Budget 2026–27, the Chief Minister announced that under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (Rural), 23,154 new houses will be constructed. Additionally, under the Mukhyamantri Shehri Awas Yojana, 15,251 plots of 30 square yards will be allotted to eligible families across 16 cities, helping thousands realise their dream of owning a home.

Key Announcements for Badshahpur’s Development

The Chief Minister made several important announcements for the comprehensive and sustainable development of the Badshahpur Assembly constituency including that the Farrukhnagar–Gurugram road will be upgraded to a four-lane road at a cost of around Rs. 365 crore, including the construction of the Chandu bypass, a modern community centre will be constructed in village Budhera at a cost of approximately Rs. 65 lakh.

The Chief Minister further announced that the roads in New Gurugram sectors will be widened up to 24 metres, wherever feasible, a water treatment plant will be set up in village Tikli under the Mahagram Yojana, benefiting nearby villages with improved drinking water and sewerage facilities, sewerage infrastructure work worth Rs. 88 crore in New Gurugram sectors will be expedited, a cremation ground will be developed in sectors 90 to 95 of New Gurugram, subject to land availability, fire stations will be established in Gurugram, Manesar, and Farrukhnagar based on land availability and maintenance of 13 roads (28.17 km) by the Haryana State Agricultural Marketing Board and 30 roads (84.86 km) by the Public Works Department will be undertaken.

The Chief Minister further announced that a special repair of 11 roads (21.3 km) will be carried out at a cost of Rs. 41.57 crore, rural pathways leading to agricultural fields will also be paved and an additional Rs. 5 crore has been allocated to further accelerate development works in the constituency.

Gurugram to Drive Haryana’s Industrial Growth: Rao Narbir Singh

Industries and Commerce Minister Rao Narbir Singh said that Haryana, traditionally an agrarian state, is rapidly moving towards becoming a leader in industrial transformation by 2047, with the National Capital Region, especially Gurugram and Manesar, playing a crucial role.

He said that progressive policies and an investor-friendly environment have enabled the state to achieve new milestones in industry, trade, and employment generation. In Badshahpur, development works worth around Rs. 236 crore have been initiated since 2024 by the Municipal Corporation Gurugram, covering roads, sewerage, drainage, and other basic infrastructure.

He further noted that reforms in industrial policy, coupled with the adoption of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and digital technologies, will reduce procedural delays, enhance transparency, and simplify processes for entrepreneurs and traders.

Triple Engine Governance Accelerating Development

Rao Narbir Singh also highlighted that the synergy between the Centre, State, and local bodies, referred to as the triple engine government, has significantly accelerated development in the region. He said that infrastructure expansion, environmental conservation, and citizen-centric services are being prioritised.

He informed that a ‘Namo Van’ project is being developed over 200 acres in villages Khoh, Kasan, and Sehrawan in the Aravalli region at a cost of around Rs. 26 crore, which will boost green cover, biodiversity, tourism, and employment opportunities.

Additionally, a provision of Rs. 100 crore has been made in the budget for maintenance of parks and green belts in urban areas to ensure a cleaner and more sustainable environment.

The event also featured vibrant cultural performances showcasing patriotism and Haryana’s rich traditions, adding energy and enthusiasm to the gathering.

Sohna MLA, Sh. Tejpal Tanwar, Gurugram MLA, Sh. Mukesh Sharma, Housing for All Department officers including Commissioner and Secretary Mohammed Shayin, Director General. Sh. J. Ganesan, GMDA CEO, Sh. P.C. Meena, former MP, Sh. Sukhbir Singh Jaunapuria, former MLA, Sh. Satya Prakash Jrawata, and other dignitaries also remained present on this occasion. 

Unique Enthusiasm Marks the Event

The Viksit Badshahpur Maharally witnessed remarkable public enthusiasm, with many rural participants arriving at the venue riding camels and horses in traditional style, adding a vibrant cultural flavour to the event.

Public Works Minister Ranbir Gangwa conducts surprise inspection of road construction works

Chandigarh, March 22- Haryana Public Works and Public Health Engineering Minister, Sh Sh. Ranbir Gangwa said that the government is working extensively to make the state’s road network strong, safe, and modern. Special focus is being given to the construction of new roads, strengthening of existing roads, and upgrading infrastructure to ensure better connectivity in every region of the state. He said that the government’s aim is to provide better and smooth transportation facilities to every citizen, thereby accelerating development.

In line with this, the Minister on Sunday conducted a surprise inspection of the ongoing road construction work from Kharkadi to Khoha in Hisar district. During the inspection, he closely examined the quality of construction material at the site and gave necessary directions to the concerned officers and executing agencies.

The Minister clearly said that any kind of negligence or use of substandard material in development works will not be tolerated at any level. He directed the officers to ensure that only high-quality materials, as per prescribed standards, are used in construction works so that the strength, safety, and long-term durability of roads can be ensured.
He said that roads are the backbone of development of any state, and a strong road network not only facilitates smooth movement but also promotes trade, industry, and other economic activities.Therefore, the government is working in this direction with full seriousness and commitment.

The Minister also directed the officers to ensure regular monitoring of all projects and to complete the works within the stipulated time frame. He warned that if any irregularity, negligence, or compromise in quality is found at any level, strict action will be taken against the concerned officer and agencies.

Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare Minister Shyam Singh Rana lays the foundation stone of a Mini Secretariat in Radaur

Chandigarh, March 22 – Haryana Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare Minister, Sh. Shyam Singh Rana laid the foundation stone of a Mini Secretariat in Radaur, to be constructed at an estimated cost of around Rs. 40 crore. He said the project will give a new direction to the development of the area.

The Minister said that the Mini Secretariat will provide various government services at one place, saving time and resources for the public. He added that the building will be equipped with modern facilities and will house key government offices, reducing the need for people to travel to different locations for administrative work.

He also inaugurated the Atal Kisan Mazdoor Canteen in the Radaur grain market, which will be run by women of self-help groups. He said the initiative aims to provide affordable meals to farmers, labourers and other needy people, with food available at Rs. 10 per plate.

He further said that under the vision of the Chief Minister, Sh. Nayab Singh Saini, efforts are being made to ensure the welfare of all sections of society, especially farmers, labourers and the underprivileged.

Former MLA, Sh. Ishwar Singh Palaka, Chairman, Market Committee, Sh. Rupinder Singh and other dignitaries were present on the occasion.

Government’s priority to ensure benefits of public welfare schemes reaches last person — Krishan Kumar Bedi

Chandigarh, March 22 – Haryana Social Justice and Empowerment Minister, Sh. Krishan Kumar Bedi listened to the problems of the general public at his residence in Narwana on Sunday and directed the concerned officers to ensure immediate resolution. On this occasion, many residents from different areas came to meet the Minister with their issues. The Minister said that public service is true service, and it is the responsibility of the administration to resolve the problems of the people.

He said that the state government is committed to providing good governance to the public. He directed the officers to treat the resolution of people’s problems without any negligence.

The Minister said that the Haryana Government is committed to the upliftment of every section of society. Ensuring that the benefits of schemes meant especially for the weak, deprived and backward sections reach the last person is the priority of the government, and this is being effectively implemented.

He also appealed to the general public to stay informed about government schemes and take maximum benefit from them.

Sh. Krishan Kumar Bedi also inaugurated a blood donation camp organised at a local palace. Congratulating the donors, he said that there is no greater donation than blood donation. Therefore, everyone should take part in this noble act of blood donation in their life.

CM pays tribute to Speaker Harvinder Kalyan’s mother

Chandigarh, March 22- Haryana Chief Minister, Sh. Nayab Singh Saini on Sunday paid floral tributes to the late Smt. Prem Kaur Kalyan, mother of Haryana Vidhan Sabha Speaker, Sh. Harvinder Kalyan, at a remembrance and tribute ceremony held at Kalyan Farm near Madhuban.

The Chief Minister said that a mother is a presence that can never be replaced, describing her as an entire world in herself who gives everything without being asked. He said that the life of Late Smt. Prem Kaur Kalyan was marked by love, sacrifice and deep dedication and self-discipline, and emphasised that one should move forward in life by following the path shown by her.

He said that she instilled strong values and moral upbringing in her family, adding that every mother dreams of seeing her son scale new heights.

The Chief Minister said that Sh. Harvinder Kalyan has carried forward the values imparted by his mother, and it is a mother’s sacrifice and dedication that lead to the progress of the entire family.

The Chief Minister prayed to the Almighty to grant a place to the departed soul at his holy feet and to give strength to the bereaved family to bear this grief.

AAP Govt laying strong network of world-class roads across Punjab, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann lays foundation stone for 300 km of new roads

FAZILKA, 22 March 2026:

Rolling out an expansive network of world-class roads across Punjab, the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) Government has accelerated its infrastructure push with Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann laying the foundation stone for 300 km of new roads and initiating repair work for 350 km in Jalalabad, Fazilka. The Chief Minister asserted that the era of corruption-driven, poor-quality construction is now firmly behind the state.

Positioning this as part of a massive 43,000 km road network being built across Punjab, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann underlined that strict accountability will ensure durability, announced plans to eliminate electricity poles through underground wiring, and expressed confidence that a satisfied electorate will return the government with a decisive mandate.

Addressing the rally, Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “In the last four years, the state government has done more work than others did in 70 years. The state government is moving forward, and in 2027, the state will take this development to the next level. The development is coupled with a number of pro-people policies aimed at ensuring the well being of the common man.”

Expressing confidence in public support, he added, “It is a writing on the wall that with the active support of the common man, the Aam Aadmi Party will again form the government in 2027. Owing to the pro-people and development oriented policies of the state government, we will again win more than 100 seats in the ensuing Vidhan Sabha polls. The massive support shown by the people is a testimony to this fact that people are waiting to teach traditional parties a lesson by again showing them the door.”

Highlighting the contrast with opposition parties, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “The AAP government is working tirelessly for welfare of people whereas the opposition has always sought share in the successful ventures during their days in power.” He added, “These leaders want to ruin the state by patronizing drugs and criminals due to which people had ousted them from power. Now all these anti-Punjab forces have joined hands to ruin Punjab and the time has come when Punjabis should also join hands to show them the door.”

Taking a dig at the Akali Dal, he said, “The real name of this gimmick of Akali Dal is ‘parivar bachao yatra’. After looting the state for 15 years, from whom are they trying to save Punjab? Akalis have plundered the state mercilessly, bruised the psyche of Punjabis emotionally and patronized several mafias.” He added, “People are well aware of the dubious character of the Akalis and Badal family due to which their theatricals won’t work now.”

The Chief Minister further said, “These leaders had patronized the gangsters in the state and infused drugs in the veins of the youth by shielding the drug smugglers. Akali Dal has always misused religion for their vested political interests but this time people will not get swayed away by it. The Akali leadership is building castles in the air to mislead the people of the state, but Punjabis will not fall prey to it.”

Targeting the Congress, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “Congress leaders are daydreaming to assume power in the state. The Congress party is a divided house that will collapse due to their infighting. It is a pity that top Congress leaders are squabbling for power and have no vision for the state. Their only aim is to plunder the wealth of Punjab by assuming power, but their dreams will never be fulfilled.” He added, “Earlier these traditional parties just waited for their turn to grab power but now the broom is there to clean the mess created by these parties.”

Announcing a major welfare initiative, he said, “The state government has started Maavan Dhian Satkar Yojana under which every woman will be entitled for ₹1,000 per month and ₹1,500 per month for women belonging to Scheduled Castes. Funds will be directly transferred to bank accounts and women already receiving social security pensions will also be eligible. Around 97% of women in Punjab are expected to benefit and the state government has allotted ₹9,300 crore in the budget. Registration will begin from April 13.”

Responding to criticism of the scheme, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “Those who are mocking the state government over the launch of the scheme or are raising baseless queries don’t know the value of ₹1,000 for the common man. These people who spend more than ₹5,000 per meal from illegally minted money don’t value this amount, which is a big financial assistance for those who have to work hard even on festivals. The wives of these affluent leaders don’t need ₹1,000 as they spend more on cosmetics.”

On infrastructure, he said, “The AAP Government has embarked on a major program for repair of link roads across the state. There are a total of 43,000 kilometers of link roads and the state government has launched a project for their repair and upgradation. Along with repairing these roads, their maintenance will also be carried out for the next five years.”

Highlighting regional development, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “It is a matter of immense pride and satisfaction that this development meeting has been transformed into a massive rally. Punjab has seen a massive transformation in the last four years as water has reached areas where it hadn’t for 50–60 years.” He added, “This is a border area where professionals like doctors and teachers hesitate to serve, which is why the state government has made it mandatory for them to serve at least two years in border areas.”

He further said, “These teachers and doctors will receive extra allowance and additional points for promotions. The children of this region are extremely talented.” Sharing an anecdote, he added, “In 2008–09, I visited Donana village where a girl topped Punjab in 5th grade. Her family couldn’t afford further education, so I arranged sponsorship and got her admitted to Baru Sahib Academy. When veterinary doctors were appointed, she was among them.”

Emphasising opportunity creation, the Chief Minister said, “This proves that our children are not lacking, only opportunities are missing, and the state government is now providing these opportunities.” He added, “Earlier leaders like Sukhbir Badal were MLAs and even Deputy Chief Ministers from this region but no real work was done. They deliberately kept people poor so that voters would ask only for small favors during elections. They called this region ‘tail end’, but I consider it the ‘frontline’.”

Criticising past governance, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “This area has small shopkeepers, traders and farmers. People voted massively for traditional parties in the past, but previous governments looted Punjab. These leaders drained resources like parasites and even today they have no agenda, only hunger for power. They try to outdo each other in abusing me and sending videos to their high command for mercy.”

Outlining achievements, he said, “The state government has provided free electricity to 90% of households, jobs to over 65,000 youth without corruption, improved roads, closed toll plazas saving ₹70 lakh daily, and is building infrastructure. The tax money of people belongs to the state and we are judiciously spending it on their welfare. People’s money is coming back to them through development, schools, hospitals and roads.”

He added, “Earlier this money was misused due to corruption, but now we have checked these pilferages for the well being of the people and the state.” Highlighting a breakthrough, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “The state government has traced the 22 km long Sarhali Minor canal in the Majha region which was buried underground. This canal is now operational due to the concerted efforts of the state government.”

On irrigation reforms, he said, “Bhakra Canal has a capacity of 9,500 cusec, but due to our efforts supply of 10,000 cusec has been ensured. In that sense, the state has carved out a new Bhakra canal without acquiring even a single inch of land.” He added, “For decades farmers drew water from Ferozepur and Sirhind canals in rotation, but for the first time this system has ended, providing major relief.”

On groundwater recovery, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “Groundwater extraction rate has reduced from 61.49% in 2022 to 31.6% in 2025. Groundwater has recharged up to 4 metres in several villages, which is heartening.”

Looking ahead, he said, “This is the result of honest governance and in the coming times we aim to implement underground electricity lines across Punjab. This will make fields cleaner, prevent accidents and ensure better supply. If the pilot succeeds, it will be expanded.”

Reiterating his government’s approach, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “People used to say nothing would change, no jobs, no roads, no development, but we have proven them wrong.”

Cabinet Ministers, MLAs and other dignitaries were also present on the occasion.

DGP Ajay Singhal Performs Special Havan at Mata Mansa Devi Temple

Chandigarh, March 22. Haryana Director General of Police (DGP) Shri Ajay Singhal today visited the world-renowned Mata Mansa Devi Temple in Panchkula along with his wife, Smt. Seema Singhal. He offered prayers with deep devotion and performed special worship and havan as per rituals. On this occasion, he prayed to Goddess Bhagwati for peace in the state, strengthening of law and order, and overall public welfare.

Havan Conducted with Traditional Religious Rituals

Upon arrival at the temple, DGP Ajay Singhal and his wife were welcomed in a traditional manner by the temple administration. Thereafter, a havan was conducted in accordance with Vedic rituals, in which both participated with full devotion and offered sacred oblations. The temple resonated with Vedic chants, creating a spiritually uplifting atmosphere. After the rituals, he offered special prayers at the shrine of Mata Mansa Devi, seeking strength and guidance to ensure peace, social harmony, and safety of citizens across the state.

Prayers for Well-being of Citizens and Morale of Police Force

On this occasion, DGP Shri Ajay Singhal said that visiting Mata Mansa Devi Temple was a matter of great fortune for him. He prayed for the happiness, prosperity, good health, and safety of the people of the state. He also prayed for strengthening the morale, dedication, and spirit of service among Haryana Police personnel. He stated that the role of the police is not only to maintain law and order but also to build trust and a sense of security in society, for which spiritual energy also plays an important role. Special security arrangements were made in the temple premises during the visit to ensure that devotees did not face any inconvenience and that the darshan process continued smoothly.

Harmony of Faith and Duty

This visit not only reflected his deep religious faith but also highlighted the importance of maintaining spiritual balance alongside administrative responsibilities. DGP Ajay Singhal’s visit conveys a positive message to society that balancing duty and faith strengthens life and governance alike.

15,000+ OPD Patients, 3,000 Endoscopic Procedures, 1,000+ Admissions Annually: Division of Paediatric Gastroenterology & Hepatology, PGIMER Leads Meet on Paediatric Liver Diseases

Chandigarh:

“Children are not just patients—they are our ambassadors of hope. Their recovery and well-being define the success of our efforts.”— Prof. R. K. Ratho, Dean (Academics) & Chief Guest

“Children with Chronic Illness Deserve Dignity and Inclusion; The Responsibility of Paediatricians Is Immense”:  Prof. Sadhna Lal”

“With over 15,000 OPD patients annually, 3,000 endoscopic procedures, and more than 1,000 admissions, paediatric gastroenterology reflects both growing need and responsibility,” said Prof. Sadhna Lal, Head, Division of Paediatric Gastroenterology & Hepatology, PGIMER, setting a compelling context for the scale, urgency, and impact of the specialty at the institute.

It was against this backdrop of expanding clinical demand and growing academic responsibility that Division of Paediatric Gastroenterology & Hepatology, PGIMER inaugurated the “Monothematic Conference on Paediatric Cholestasis & 4th Prof. Saroj Mehta Memorial Oration (22nd–23rd March 2026)” at Lecture Theatre-1, PGIMER, bringing together leading experts from across India and abroad to deliberate on critical challenges in paediatric cholestatic  liver diseases.

The inaugural session was graced by eminent dignitaries including Prof. R.K. Ratho, Dean (Academics), Prof. Nirmala D, Paediatric Gastroenterology, Institute of Child Health & Hospital for Children, Chennai, Prof. Sadhna Lal, Head, Division of Paediatric Gastroenterology & Hepatology, PGIMER and Prof. Surinder Rana, Department of Gastroenterology, PGIMER, and

Welcoming the gathering, Dr. Sadhna Lal underscored the department’s guiding philosophy, stating, “Patient First remains our core principle—every clinical and academic effort revolves around the child.” Paying a heartfelt tribute to Prof. Saroj Mehta, she said, “Her legacy continues to inspire generations with values of compassion, clinical excellence, and integrity.”

Highlighting the academic vision of the programme, Prof. Lal noted that the conference has been thoughtfully structured to address biliary atresia, a significant unresolved challenge in India, followed by comprehensive deliberations on other types of paediatric cholestasis, with the aim of strengthening expertise and expanding access to specialised care across the country.

Acknowledging the team behind the service, Prof. Sadhna Lal described PGIMER Junior & Senior residents as “the backbone of the department,” recognising their relentless contribution in sustaining high-quality patient care.

Emphasising capacity building, Prof. Lal added, “It is our mandate to train and disseminate knowledge so that every corner of the country has access to skilled paediatric gastroenterologists & hepatologists,” while expressing pride in alumni who are now leading services nationwide.

“It is our duty as Paediatric hepatologists & gastroenterologists to be mindful that we are dealing with children. We need to not only treat them but ensure these kids with chronic diseases are integrated into society and have a good quality of life. The responsibility of Paediatricians is immense: only they can ensure that the nation is not burdened with an unhealthy adult population!

Addressing the gathering as Chief Guest, Prof. R.K. Ratho lauded the dedication and passion driving the specialty forward. “Dedication transforms work into passion. When clinicians go beyond routine hours for patient care, it reflects true commitment,” he remarked, appreciating the sustained efforts of the team.

Prof. Ratho emphasised the critical importance of early diagnosis and collaboration. “Timely recognition of conditions like biliary atresia and cholestasis is crucial. Delays in referral and diagnosis remain challenges—platforms like this enable shared learning and improved outcomes.”

Reflecting on the human dimension of care, Prof. Ratho added, “Children are not just patients—they are our ambassadors of hope. Their recovery and well-being define the success of our efforts.” He also commended the department for its patient-centric approach and for consistently organising focused academic forums that encourage meaningful dialogue and innovation.

A deeply moving highlight of the event was the felicitation of young patients representing successful clinical journeys, reflecting resilience, courage, and the impact of advanced medical care:

  • Miss N (6 years) – Biliary Atresia, post successful liver transplant
  • Miss A (7 years) – Primary Sclerosing Cholangitis (PSC), doing well under specialized care
  • Miss A A (9 years) – Biliary Atresia, post successful Kasai portoenterostomy, operated at 90 days of age
  • Master V (1.5 years) – Progressive Familial Intrahepatic Cholestasis (PFIC-II), post successful liver transplant
  • Master S N (4 years) – Progressive Familial Intrahepatic Cholestasis (PFIC-IV), doing well under specialised care

These children were honoured as symbols of hope and successful outcomes, bringing a powerful human dimension to the scientific deliberations and underscoring the importance of early diagnosis, multidisciplinary care, and sustained follow-up.

The inaugural session concluded with a vote of thanks by Prof. Surinder Rana, acknowledging the contributions of faculty, delegates, and organisers in making the event possible.

The two-day scientific programme focuses on “Improving Outcomes of Biliary Atresia” on Day 1, covering etiopathogenesis, early diagnosis, surgical techniques such as Kasai porto-enterostomy, and long-term outcomes. Day 2 expands into non-biliary atresia paediatric cholestasis, including genetic and metabolic liver disorders, PFIC, mitochondrial hepatopathies, and emerging therapies.

Featuring state-of-the-art lectures, panel discussions, and case-based learning, the conference aims to foster collaboration, enhance clinical understanding, and strengthen national capacity in managing paediatric liver diseases.

The event stands as a strong reflection of PGIMER’s commitment to clinical excellence, academic leadership, and compassionate care—where every child’s journey inspires progress and purpose.

CBM to Celebrate Founders’ Day and Traders’ Day on March 22; Gulab Chand Kataria to be Chief Guest

Chandigarh: The apex body of traders in the city, Chandigarh Beopar Mandal (CBM), will celebrate its Founders’ Day and Traders’ Day on March 22 at Mahila Bhawan in Sector 38. This information was shared by CBM Vice President and official spokesperson Diwakar Sahuja. On this occasion, CBM President Sanjeev Chadha appealed to all members to make the event grand and successful. He urged each member to bring at least five people along to the समारोह, so as to showcase the unity and strength of the trader community.

The event will be presided over by Punjab Governor and Administrator of Chandigarh, Gulab Chand Kataria, while Sunil J. Singhi, Chairman of the National Traders Welfare Board, New Delhi, will attend as the Guest of Honour. During the meeting, representatives of several traders’ associations shared their suggestions to ensure the success of the event and also assured financial support. Prominent attendees included Mohit Sood (President, Grain Market Association), Anil Jain (Sector 7C Market Association), Ramesh Khandelwal (Sector 31 Market Association), Gursharan Batra (son of Late Inder Lal Batra), Gurinder Singh (Sector 22 Market), Subhash Narang (Senior Vice President, CBM), and Baljinder Gujral (Vice President, CBM), along with several other key members.

Charanjiv Singh, Chairman of CBM, shared memories related to the organization’s foundation day and remembered the contributions of its founder, Late Inder Lal Batra. He also urged members to prepare and present the demands related to their respective markets at the event so that they can be placed before the chief guests.

Major industrial investments validate Punjab’s improving law & order and governance: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann

CHANDIGARH, 21 March 2026:

Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann on Saturday presented a focused report card on law and order under the AAP Government as part of the ongoing series ‘Shandaar Chaar Saal Bhagwant Mann De Naal’, aimed at placing a clear, sector-wise account of four years of governance before the people. He asserted that Punjab’s improving law and order is now visible on the ground, driven by a zero tolerance policy against drugs and a sustained crackdown on organized crime, alongside police reforms and rising investor confidence.

The Chief Minister said the Punjab Government’s campaign ‘Yudh Nashean Virudh’ has led to decisive action, with over 95,000 smugglers arrested, ₹772 crore worth of illegal assets seized, and more than 1,100 gangs dismantled, while measures like the anti-drone system have checked cross-border smuggling. He added that record police recruitment, modernisation, and initiatives like the Sadak Surakhya Force underline the strengthening of law enforcement in Punjab. Taking on the Akali leadership, he said those who patronised gangsters and allowed criminal networks to flourish are now attempting to rewrite history, but cannot escape accountability.

Addressing a press conference, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann stated, “Punjab Government has adopted a zero tolerance policy against drugs, and no leniency has been or will be shown against violators of the law. Exemplary punishment will be ensured,” said CM Bhagwant Singh Mann, adding, “From March 2022 till now, 95,881 drug smugglers and suppliers have been arrested and 71,228 FIRs have been registered under the NDPS Act.”

Detailing the crackdown, the Chief Minister stated, “6,109 major/commercial consignments of drugs have been seized, along with the arrest of 10,085 major traffickers. Special focus has been placed on drug hotspots, leading to recovery of 5,625 kg heroin, 3,461 kg opium, 1,628 quintals poppy husk, and 4.96 crore injections, tablets, capsules, and syrups.” He further added, “₹54.47 crore drug money has been recovered and 3,440 proclaimed offenders in NDPS cases have been arrested. Properties worth ₹772 crore have been seized from 1,556 smugglers.”

Highlighting action against organized crime, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “After the formation of the Anti-Gangster Task Force (AGTF), 2,858 gangsters and criminals have been arrested, 35 neutralized, and 1,105 gangs busted. 2,267 weapons and 655 vehicles used in crimes have been recovered.” He added, “Since April 6, 2022, AGTF has solved 38 sensational cases, including major murder cases, extortion rackets, bank robberies, gang arrests, and terror-linked conspiracies across Punjab and nearby regions up to March 2026.”

Emphasising border security, he noted, “Punjab has around 560 kilometre border with Pakistan, and to check the supply of drugs and weapons, the state government has installed an anti-drone system. Punjab is the first state to have this system.” He added, “We had asked the Centre for funds, but no assistance was given. The state government used its own resources, and the system is producing results. So far, 806 drones have been recovered, 1,472 drone movements detected, and 341 illegal weapons recovered via drones.”

On police reforms, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “Unlike earlier governments that carried out recruitment in the last or poll year, our government has ensured regular recruitment. In the last four years, 12,197 recruitments have been made, including 1,062 Sub-Inspectors, 450 Head Constables, and 10,285 Constables.” He added, “Recruitment for 1,746 constables (2025) is under process, and advertisement has been issued for 3,298 constables (2026), with applications invited from March 10, 2026.”

He further stated, “To modernise the Police force, 2,904 vehicles have been purchased at a cost of ₹327.69 crore, including 2,258 four-wheelers and 646 two-wheelers. The Sadak Surakhya Force, launched in January 2024, is India’s first dedicated force of its kind, covering more than 5,500 km of highways and reducing fatalities by 48%.” He added, “From February 2024 to January 2026, it has helped 47,386 victims in 43,983 accidents, provided on-the-spot aid to 19,973 people, and shifted 27,413 injured to hospitals.”

Highlighting technological upgrades, he said, “Safe City projects have been implemented in SAS Nagar and Jalandhar and will soon be launched in Ludhiana, Amritsar, and Patiala.” He added, “Punjab Police is a national police force fighting to safeguard the unity, integrity, and sovereignty of the country.”

On action against fugitives, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “The state government is leaving no stone unturned to extradite gangsters operating from abroad. Whenever inputs are received, they are flagged for issuing Red Corner Notices.”

Reinforcing confidence in Punjab’s law and order, he stated, “Punjab is one of the safest and most peaceful states in the country. Investment is the best parameter to judge law and order, and the fact that a major steel plant has started operations with an investment of ₹3,200 crore reflects this reality.” He added, “Several leading global companies are making a beeline to invest in Punjab, and many have already started operations. The state is hosting major events and will host the Asia Cup Hockey in October.”

Taking aim at previous regimes, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “Those who patronised and promoted drug culture in Punjab are now claiming to eliminate it. Everyone knows who gave tickets to gangsters and appointed them as Halqa in-charges. These leaders are responsible for the rise of gangster culture and are still extending legal and other support to such elements.”

Director General of Police Gaurav Yadav and other senior officials were also present on the occasion.