Chandigarh, October 17 – On the completion of one year of the State Government’s third term, ‘Jan Vishwas–Jan Vikas’ programmes were organized in various districts across Haryana today. Cabinet Ministers of the state participated as chief guests in the district-level functions. During these events, plots allotted under the Mukhyamantri Gramin Awas Yojana 2.0 were handed over to the beneficiaries selected through a draw.

*First year of government’s third term has been remarkable: Anil Vij*

Haryana’s Power Minister, Sh. Anil Vij, said in Ambala that the first year of the government’s third term has been remarkable, during which several welfare schemes were launched. These initiatives have improved the standard of living of the people. Through the State Government’s tireless efforts, financial benefits under various schemes are being directly transferred into beneficiaries’ bank accounts.

*‘Deendayal Lado Lakshmi Yojana’ to empower women economically: Krishan Lal Panwar*

Haryana’s Development and Panchayats Minister, Sh. Krishan Lal Panwar, said in Panipat that under the Deendayal Lado Lakshmi Yojana, women will receive a monthly financial assistance of Rs 2,100, which will help them become economically self-reliant. Similarly, under the ‘Har Ghar–Har Grihini Yojana’, BPL families are being provided LPG cylinders for Rs 500 to ensure convenience for women.

*A year of welfare, transparency and rapid development: Rao Narbir Singh*

Haryana’s Industries and Commerce Minister, Sh. Rao Narbir Singh, said in Gurugram that the first year of the Haryana Government’s third term will be remembered as a golden chapter in the State’s history for its focus on welfare, transparency, and rapid development. Under the leadership of Chief Minister Sh. Nayab Singh Saini, the government has translated the principles of development, good governance, and service into action, taking Haryana to new heights. The State will continue to play a leading role in building a ‘Viksit Bharat’ (Developed India) in the coming years.

*Welfare of poor and farmers remains top priority: Mahipal Dhanda*

Haryana’s Education Minister, Sh. Mahipal Dhanda, said in Sonipat that under the leadership of the State Government, Haryana is progressing at three times the earlier pace. He added that the goal is to make Haryana a developed State by 2047, with every citizen contributing to the nation’s growth. Out of the 217 commitments made in the government’s Sankalp Patra, 46 have already been fulfilled within the first year. Welfare of farmers and the poor remains the top priority.

*Government committed to service, good governance, welfare, and Antyodaya: Dr. Arvind Sharma*

Haryana’s Cooperation Minister, Dr. Arvind Sharma, said in Rohtak that the State Government is continuously working in the spirit of service, good governance, welfare of the poor, and Antyodaya. Several schemes have been launched for the benefit of farmers. The government is procuring every grain of paddy from farmers and ensuring that payments are credited directly to their bank accounts within the stipulated timeframe.

*A new chapter of development written during one year of government: Shyam Singh Rana*

Haryana’s Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare Minister, Sh. Shyam Singh Rana, said in Yamunanagar that a new chapter of development has been written during the government’s first year in office. Youth have been provided government jobs transparently and without any bribes, bringing positive changes in their lives. During the programme, allotment letters for 100-square-yard plots were distributed to eligible beneficiaries under Mukhyamantri Gramin Awas Yojana 2.0.

*Government committed to development of every section: Ranbir Singh Gangwa*

Haryana’s Public Works (B&R) Minister, Sh. Ranbir Singh Gangwa, said in Hisar that the State Government is committed to the development of every section of society. Completing one year of its third term, the government under Chief Minister Sh. Nayab Singh Saini has taken historic steps towards ‘Mhara Haryana – Non-Stop Haryana’, benefiting people from all walks of life.

*Government fulfilling every promise with the spirit of ‘Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas’: Krishan Kumar Bedi*

Haryana’s Social Justice and Empowerment Minister, Sh. Krishan Kumar Bedi, said in Sirsa that the State Government is fulfilling every promise made in its Sankalp Patra with the spirit of Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas. Within one year, 46 commitments have been fulfilled. Promises made in the interest of the people will also be completed soon. He added that the government is doing commendable work in the health sector—patients suffering from kidney ailments are being provided free dialysis facilities at district hospitals, and senior citizens above 70 years are being given medical assistance of up to Rs 5 lakh under the Ayushman Bharat scheme.

Chandigarh, October 17- With the aim of promoting greenery and spreading the message of environmental conservation among people, a plantation drive was organised today along the green belt of the National Highway in Faridabad under the ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’ campaign.

On this occasion, Union Minister of State for Cooperation, Sh. Krishan Pal Gurjar, planted a sapling himself and emphasized the importance of environmental protection and tree plantation.  MLA, Ballabgarh, Sh. Mool Chand Sharma also participated in the campaign by planting saplings.

In his address, Sh. Krishan Pal Gurjar said that trees are the foundation of human life, providing us with clean air, pure water, and a balanced environment. Planting a tree is not merely an act, but a symbol of our gratitude towards nature, he added.

The Union Minister said that environmental protection is not solely the responsibility of the government or any institution, but a moral duty of every citizen. He emphasized that if each family plants a sapling around their home and nurtures it, our society will become greener, cleaner, and healthier in the times to come.

Sh. Gurjar appealed to all citizens to make tree plantation an integral part of their lives and inspire their families and friends to do the same. He said that our connection with nature makes life healthier, more balanced, and sustainable — a priceless gift for future generations.

Officers and employees of the Haryana Shehri Vikas Pradhikaran and others were also present.

Chandigarh, October 17– To mark the completion of one year of the Haryana Government’s third consecutive term, a grand district-level ‘Jan Vishwas–Jan Vikas’ programme was held today in Faridabad. Union Minister for Power, Housing and Urban Affairs Sh. Manohar Lal graced the event as the Chief Guest. The ceremony began with the distribution of allotment letters for plots measuring 50–100 square yards to beneficiaries under the Mukhyamantri Gramin Awas Yojana 2.0.

Union Minister Sh. Manohar Lal stated that under this initiative, approximately 9,000 eligible beneficiaries across the state have been allotted plots ranging from 50 to 100 square yards. He said this special scheme of the State Government marks a major step towards providing permanent housing to the poor and needy families.

Extending advance Diwali greetings to all the beneficiaries, the Minister said that these plots are their “Diwali gift,” fulfilling their dream of owning a home. He added that under the leadership of Prime Minister  Sh. Narendra Modi, both the Central and Haryana Governments have set new benchmarks in development and good governance over the past 11 years. Under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana, millions of families across India have been provided with pucca houses, and a target has been set to build 7 crore more houses in the next four years.

In Haryana, eligible rural families are not only being allotted plots but are also receiving financial assistance for house construction, ensuring that every family has a secure roof over their head. The Minister said that the government’s goal is not merely to construct houses of bricks and mortar, but to ensure that every household is equipped with all basic facilities such as toilets, electricity, gas, clean drinking water and ration. Haryana has become the country’s first “Kerosene-Free State,” where every household has access to electricity, gas connections and piped water supply.

Sh. Manohar Lal emphasized that through e-governance, the State Government has made administration more transparent and accountable. Facilities like CM Window, Saral Portal, Parivar Pehchan Patra, Old Age Pension, and other online services have enabled citizens to access government schemes from the comfort of their homes. He said that the “Bina Parchi, Bina Kharchi” recruitment process, the “Zero Tolerance for Corruption” policy, and schemes like Swamitva Yojana stand as hallmarks of good governance.

The initiative to provide homes to the poor is a strong step towards ensuring dignity and self-reliance. “Bina Parchi, Bina Kharchi” is not merely a slogan but the beginning of a new tradition of good governance, he added. This slogan became the symbol of people’s trust, and it is this public faith that brought the BJP Government to power for the third consecutive time.

The Minister further said that corruption remains a major challenge before the nation, and the Modi Government has taken decisive action against it. He remarked that some people are attempting to give recent events political or caste-based colour, but the truth is that corruption is the root cause of most problems. Combating it is the clear commitment of both Central and State Governments. The “Zero Tolerance for Corruption” policy that was earlier implemented in Haryana will continue to be enforced strictly.

He asserted that no person—no matter how influential—will be spared if found involved in corruption. At the same time, he made it clear that no innocent individual will face injustice; everyone will receive fair treatment.

Highlighting the various reforms introduced to ensure transparency and good governance, Sh. Manohar Lal mentioned the online transfer system and the digitalization of all services as major steps in this direction. He said that both the Central and State Governments are moving forward with a shared vision of honest administration, transparent governance and dedicated public service.

He also appealed to all citizens to actively participate in the anti-corruption campaign so that Haryana can become a model state of good governance and integrity.

The event was also attended by former Cabinet Minister and Ballabgarh MLA Sh. Mool Chand Sharma, Badkhal MLA Sh. Dhanesh Adlakha, NIT MLA Sh. Satish Fagna, Municipal Corporation Mayor Sh. Praveen Batra Joshi, former Political Advisor to the Chief Minister Sh. Ajay Gaur, Chief Minister’s Media Advisor Sh. Rajiv Jaitley, Media Coordinator Sh. Mukesh Vashisht, Deputy Commissioner Sh. Vikram Singh, and other senior district officers.

Chandigarh, October 17: Haryana Chief Minister Sh. Nayab Singh Saini announced that the 350th Martyrdom Day of Shri Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji will be observed with great devotion and reverence across the state. Various programmes will be organized from November 1 to November 25 to mark the occasion. A state-level commemorative event will be held in Kurukshetra on November 25.

The Chief Minister was presiding over a review meeting today at his official residence, Sant Kabir Kutir, to discuss the preparations for these observance events.

The meeting was attended by Chief Principal Secretary to CM, Sh. Rajesh Khullar; Principal Secretary to CM, Sh. Arun Kumar Gupta; Additional Chief Secretary, Sh. Anurag Agarwal; Commissioner, Information, Public Relations and Languages Department, Dr. Amit Kumar Agrawal; Additional Chief Secretary to CM, Dr. Saket Kumar; Director General of the Department, Sh. K.M. Pandurang; Deputy Principal Secretary, Sh. Yash Pal; Additional Director (Administration), Smt. Varsha Khangwal; OSDs Sh. Prabhleen Singh and Sh. Virender Singh Badkhalsa, along with other senior officials.

The Chief Minister directed the officials to ensure maximum participation of school students and senior citizens in all the programmes being organized to mark the 350th Martyrdom Day of Shri Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji, so that people can draw inspiration from his life, sacrifice, and teachings.

The Chief Minister was informed that a blood donation camp will be organized in Ambala on November 1 in the memory of Shri Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji, which will be inaugurated by the Chief Minister himself. On November 3, an essay competition for school students on the life and teachings of Shri Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji will be organised in Hindi, English, Punjabi, and Sanskrit. On November 5, appointment letters for government jobs will be distributed to families affected by the 1984 riots.

The Chief Minister was further apprised that on November 8, a special prayer and a commemorative journey dedicated to Shri Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji will be flagged off from Rori (Sirsa). On the same day, a national-level seminar on the lives of Shri Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji, Bhai Sati Das Ji, Bhai Mati Das Ji, Bhai Dayala Ji, and Bhai Jaita Ji will be held at Chaudhary Devi Lal University, Sirsa, which will be inaugurated by the Chief Minister. A coffee table book in Hindi and Punjabi will also be released on the occasion.

On November 9, Union Minister Sh. Manohar Lal will flag off a marathon titled “Hind Di Chadar” in Karnal. On November 11, the Chief Minister will flag off another commemorative journey from Marranwala in Pinjore. The journey will begin in Faridabad on November 14, followed by a programme in village Badkhal (Sonipat) dedicated to the life of Dada Kushal Singh Dahiya.

On November 18, the Chief Minister will lay the foundation stone of the “Shri Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji Forest and Wildlife Conservation Centre” at Kalesar in Yamunanagar district. On the same day, the Chief Minister will also flag off another journey from Kapal Mochan dedicated to Shri Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji. Additionally, an event in remembrance of renowned personalities from the Banjara and Lubana communities will be held in Pehowa, where the Chief Minister will be the chief guest.

As part of the ongoing series of commemorative events, an All Faith Conference will be held in Kurukshetra on November 24, with the Chief Minister as the chief guest. On November 25, a grand state-level ceremony will take place in Kurukshetra to mark the culmination of the observance of Shri Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji’s 350th Martyrdom Day. The event will feature 350 girls performing traditional kirtan, along with sand art musical performances and a light and sound show dedicated to the life and sacrifice of the revered Guru.

Chandigarh, October 17 – As per Advertisement No. 2/2024 issued by the Haryana Vidhan Sabha for recruitment to various posts, the advertisement related to the posts mentioned at serial numbers 1 and 2 has been withdrawn due to administrative reasons.

A Haryana Vidhan Sabha spokesperson shared this information today.

It is noteworthy that under Advertisement No. 2/2024, applications were invited for one post each of Deputy Secretary, Public Relations Officer, Law Officer, Telephone Attendant, Bills Messenger, and Frash.

However, due to administrative reasons, a decision has been taken to withdraw the advertisement for the posts mentioned at serial numbers 1 and 2, i.e., the Deputy Secretary and Public Relations Officer.

In addition, the advertisement issued under Advertisement No. 3/2024 for one post of Assistant Engineer has also been withdrawn due to administrative reasons.

Chandigarh, October 17:

Punjab Mining and Geology Minister Sh. Barinder Kumar Goyal, on Thursday, said that the amendments made in the State’s Mining Policy have started delivering visible results, strengthening legal mining activity, improving supply of sand and gravel and enhancing state revenue through transparent operations.

The Cabinet Minister said that the introduction of Landowner Mining Sites (LMS) and Crusher Mining Sites (CRMS) has transformed the mining sector by empowering landowners and crusher operators while reducing dependence on raw material from other states. The initiative has also helped curb illegal mining by bringing more stakeholders into the legal framework.

Since the rollout of the amended policy, the department has received over 240 CRMS applications and 95 LMS applications. Out of these, 23 CRMS and 4 LMS Letters of Intent have already been issued and the remaining applications are being processed for inclusion in the District Survey Reports. These sites are expected to become operational between December 2025 and March 2026 after completion of environmental clearances.

Sh. Goyal said that the implementation of LMS and CRMS has led to an increased availability of raw materials in the market, ensuring a steady supply for construction and development projects. The move has also provided local employment opportunities and is contributing to higher royalty income for the State.

The Mining and Geology Minister also highlighted that the Punjab Government has launched fresh online auctions for 29 Commercial Mining Sites containing 11.58 crore cubic feet of raw material, marking the first auction exercise in the last three years. The process has been made fully transparent through competitive online bidding, eliminating discretionary allotments and ensuring equal opportunity for all genuine participants.

He said that the introduction of price-based bidding, advance royalty payments and extended lease periods has modernised the auction process and improved operational efficiency. Responsibility for obtaining environmental clearances now rests with bidders, enabling faster project implementation and accountability, he added.

The Cabinet Minister informed that nearly 100 additional sites will be brought under auction in a phased manner to further increase the legal supply of raw material and strengthen the mining ecosystem. He said these policy reforms are aimed at making Punjab’s mining operations transparent, accountable and citizen-friendly.

Sh. Goyal reaffirmed that the Punjab Government under Chief Minister S. Bhagwant Singh Mann is committed to ensuring fair and sustainable resource management. “Our efforts are focused on creating a transparent system that encourages legal mining, enhances revenue and safeguards the interests of the people of Punjab,” the Cabinet Minister categorically added.

Sh. Barinder Kumar Goyal said that earlier, gravel mining in Punjab was confined to Commercial Mining Sites (CMS) allotted by the Department, mainly through a draw of lots. Crusher owners relied heavily on these limited CMS sites or imported raw materials from other states, leading to an acute shortage and inflated costs. Many crusher owners, despite possessing gravel-rich land, were unable to utilize it as permissions were restricted. Their long-pending demand to extract gravel from their own property remained unresolved, leaving a significant portion of Punjab’s gravel reserves untapped.

Now, with the Punjab Government’s approval of key amendments introducing Crusher Mining Sites (CRMS), the landscape of gravel mining is changing. Crusher owners with gravel-bearing land can now apply for a mining lease, reducing dependence on other states and curbing illegal transportation. This move is set to boost business opportunities and employment within Punjab while ensuring better availability of crushed sand and bajri for developmental projects. The expanded supply chain will likely stabilize market prices and enhance the state’s revenue streams, he added.

He informed that similarly, sand mining operations were limited to Commercial Mining Sites (CMS) and Public Mining Sites (PMS). This restrictive model caused a persistent gap between demand and supply as many landowners were hesitant to grant consent for mining on their land by external parties. The government frequently received requests from these landowners seeking the right to mine their own lands, creating a strong case for policy revision.

Through the introduction of Landowner Mining Sites (LMS), the Punjab Government has unlocked new potential in sand mining. Landowners can now legally mine their property or authorize someone to do so by paying only the prescribed royalty to the state. This reform will expand the number of operational sites, enhance the availability of sand, generate employment and ensure competitive market prices. The inclusion of LMS will also deter monopolistic control, promoting fair participation as every eligible landowner can now access mining rights.

Chandigarh/Chennai, October 17:

Punjab Public Works Minister S. Harbhajan Singh ETO and Water Resources Minister Sh. Barinder Kumar Goyal today called on Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Sh. M.K. Stalin at Chennai and extended a formal invitation to join the state-level commemorations being organised to mark the 350th Martyrdom Anniversary of Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji.

Conveying greetings from Punjab Chief Minister S. Bhagwant Singh Mann, both the Cabinet Ministers apprised Sh. M.K. Stalin of the elaborate plans being undertaken by the Punjab Government to observe this historic occasion with reverence and grandeur. They shared that the month-long commemorative events will highlight the supreme sacrifice made by Guru Sahib to uphold the principles of religious freedom and human dignity.

During the meeting, the Ministers informed that the celebrations will commence on October 25 with Ardaas at Gurdwara Sri Sis Ganj Sahib in Delhi, followed by devotional congregations and cultural programmes across Punjab. They added that a series of Light and Sound shows depicting Guru Sahib’s life and teachings will be held in all 23 districts, while 130 sacred sites associated with Guru Sahib’s travels will host Kirtan Darbars and spiritual gatherings.

The Ministers also briefed that four Nagar Kirtans, starting from Srinagar (Jammu and Kashmir), Gurdaspur, Faridkot and Takht Sri Damdama Sahib (Punjab), will converge at Sri Anandpur Sahib on November 22. The concluding ceremonies from November 23 to 25 will feature Sri Akhand Path Sahib, Sarb Dharam Sammelan, a special session of the Punjab Vidhan Sabha and a grand Kirtan Darbar. A dedicated Tent City “Chakk Nanki” is also being established at Sri Anandpur Sahib to accommodate thousands of devotees visiting daily.

Chief Minister Sh. M.K. Stalin appreciated the Punjab Government’s visionary initiative to pay the respects to the legacy of Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji, terming it a strong message of unity, compassion and brotherhood.

The Punjab Ministers further stated that Chief Minister S. Bhagwant Singh Mann has envisioned these commemorations not only as a tribute to the Ninth Guru Sahib but also as a national effort to disseminate Guru Sahib’s teachings of peace, equality and righteousness. They said that Sri Anandpur Sahib will become a vibrant centre of devotion and cultural expression during the celebrations, drawing devotees and visitors from across India and abroad.

Chandigarh/Chennai, October 17:

On their visit to Tamil Nadu, Punjab Public Works Minister S. Harbhajan Singh ETO and Water Resources Minister Sh. Barinder Kumar Goyal today witnessed the proceedings of the Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly in Chennai.

Both the Cabinet Ministers observed the functioning of the House and gained insights into its legislative procedures and practices.

On the occasion, Speaker of the Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly Mr. M. Appavu extended a warm welcome to the visiting Cabinet Ministers on behalf of the Chief Minister, Members of the Legislative Assembly and the people of Tamil Nadu. The Speaker expressed happiness over the Ministers’ visit and appreciated the spirit of inter-state cooperation between Punjab and Tamil Nadu.

The Ministers thanked the Tamil Nadu Speaker and conveyed greetings from the Government and people of Punjab, reaffirming the commitment to strengthen mutual understanding and cultural exchange between the two states.

CHANDIGARH/ SAS NAGAR, October 17:

In a significant initiative to further enhance the road safety, the Sadak Surakhiya Force (SSF) of the Traffic and Road Safety Wing, Punjab Police on Friday launched the “Hauli Chalo” Sticker Campaign from Bhago Majra Toll Plaza on NH-5 (Mohali–Chandigarh) Highway. Notably, the campaign is being supported by Yara India and implemented by the Sadak Surakhiya Force (SSF).

After launching the drive, Special Director General of Police (Special DGP) Traffic & Road Safety, Punjab, AS Rai informed that around 30,000 reflector stickers will be pasted on tractor-trolleys across 144 routes of the SSF in the first phase, covering approximately 4,100 kilometres of key road stretches in Punjab.

He shared that Punjab witnessed 2,048 road accidents involving tractor-trolleys, resulting in 1,569 fatalities, mostly farmers between 2017 and 2022. These incidents accounted for 5-6% of all road accident deaths in the state took place during this period, underscoring the need for targeted safety initiatives. AS Rai stated that the safety of Punjab’s farmers, the backbone of our agrarian economy, on the roads is paramount. The ‘Hauli Chalo’ campaign would mitigate tractor-trolley accidents by improving visibility and promoting road awareness, particularly during the harvesting season.

He said that Punjab has witnessed a reduction in road accident fatalities in 2024, with a notable decline in deaths within 24 hours of accidents. This positive trend is attributed to the combined efforts of enforcement, road engineering, and awareness initiatives by the Punjab Police’s Traffic and Road Safety Wing.

He further informed that all SSF units across Punjab will launch the campaign simultaneously. Considering the ongoing harvesting season, the Punjab Police are acting proactively to safeguard farmers’ lives and raise awareness about safe movement of agricultural vehicles, especially during early morning and late evening hours.

Chandigarh, October 17:

On the fifth day of filing nominations for the bye-election to the 21-Tarn Taran Assembly Constituency, a total of six nomination papers were submitted.

A spokesperson of the Chief Electoral Officer, Punjab, informed that Harjit Singh Sandhu, the candidate from the BJP, filed his nomination papers today. In addition, Harmeet Singh Sandhu, the candidate of the Aam Aadmi Party, submitted two nomination papers. Rajesh Walia also filed nomination papers as  covering candidate of Aam Aadmi Party. Meanwhile, Sham Lal Gandhi, the candidate of the Sacho Sach Party, filed his nomination papers as well.

It is noteworthy that Indian National Congress candidate Karanbir Singh also submitted another nomination paper today. Earlier, he had filed his nomination papers on October 15.

The last date for filing nominations is October 21, while the scrutiny of nomination papers will be held on October 22. The last date for withdrawal of candidature is October 24, 2025.