Chandigarh:

Haryana Pradesh Congress Committee President Rao Narendra Singh strongly condemned the forcible removal of Ladakh-based social activist Sonam Wangchuk from the protest site, calling it a direct assault on democracy and the Constitution. He said that every citizen has the constitutional right to peacefully and democratically express their views. Any attempt to suppress a peaceful movement through the use of force is against the core values of democracy.

Rao Narendra Singh said that Sonam Wangchuk’s fast over the past 19 days is not merely the protest of an individual but has become a symbol of the pain and frustration of millions of students and young people across the country who are deeply concerned about their future due to repeated paper leaks, flaws in the examination system, and the lack of accountability.

He stated that the confidence of the youth is the greatest asset of any democratic nation. It is the government’s responsibility to ensure a fair, transparent, and credible examination system. When paper leaks continue to occur, questions are repeatedly raised over the integrity of examinations, and effective action is not taken against those responsible, it is the hardworking students—who spend years preparing for these examinations—who suffer the most and are ultimately denied justice.

Rao Narendra Singh said that Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, has consistently raised the concerns and rights of students and youth. The Congress Party is demanding that the Union Education Minister be held accountable and resign so that public confidence in the examination system can be restored.

He further said that Rahul Gandhi launched the “Students’ Echo” (Chhatron Ki Goonj) campaign from Kota, Rajasthan, to amplify the voices of students and young people. As part of this campaign, he also interacted with students in Uttarakhand on Friday, discussing issues such as paper leaks and creating awareness about the challenges facing the country’s examination system.

Rao Narendra Singh said that the Congress Party has been standing firmly with students and youth for the past one and a half months. The party will continue its struggle until strict action is taken against those responsible for paper leaks and comprehensive, long-term reforms are implemented in the examination system.

Appealing to Sonam Wangchuk to end his hunger strike while keeping his health in mind, Rao Narendra Singh said that Wangchuk’s concern is not merely personal but reflects the aspirations and anxieties of millions of students and young people across the country. He reaffirmed that the Congress Party remains fully committed to protecting the future of the youth, ensuring a transparent examination system, and safeguarding the rights of students.

Chandigarh, July 18: Haryana is set to significantly expand vocational education in government schools, introduce emerging subjects such as Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Financial Technology (FinTech), and strengthen digital and skill-based learning as part of a comprehensive strategy to prepare students for future careers.

The roadmap was reviewed by Chief Secretary Sh. Anurag Rastogi during a review meeting of Samagra Shiksha Scheme on Saturday. All Deputy Commissioners from all the districts participated through video conferencing.

Reviewing the progress, Sh. Rastogi directed officials to accelerate the implementation of education reforms and ensure that every student benefits from quality education, modern infrastructure and industry-oriented skills. He also asked Deputy Commissioners to work towards achieving 100 per cent enrolment and improving learning outcomes in their respective districts.

Principal Secretary, School Education, Vijay Singh Dahiya, informed that Haryana has prepared an ambitious plan to expand vocational education to 306 additional government schools in the first phase. This will increase vocational education coverage from 31 per cent to 60 per cent of secondary students in 2026-27, with the long-term objective of extending the programme to every Government secondary and senior secondary school.

He said the department is also planning to introduce AI and FinTech courses alongside the existing 15 vocational sectors, giving students early exposure to emerging technologies and preparing them for future employment opportunities.

The vocational education programme is already making significant progress. During 2025-26, 1.58 lakh students in Classes VI to VIII received vocational exposure through workshops, internships, projects and Kaushal Melas in 1,382 Government schools. At the secondary level, 2.13 lakh students are enrolled in vocational education across 1,398 government schools, with nearly 45 per cent opting for skill-based courses.

State Project Director, Swapnil Ravindra Patil informed that Haryana is also expanding multilingual education. French language is currently taught in 26 Government schools, benefiting around 4,000 students, while German language is proposed for Government schools in the next phase.

Sh. Patil informed that, in line with the Haryana Government’s decision to strengthen district-level monitoring of schools, the Additional Deputy Commissioners (ADCs) have been assigned the responsibility of overall supervision and monitoring of school education in their respective districts. The ADCs will monitor infrastructure development, implementation of Government schemes, maintenance of digital facilities, sanitation, teaching quality, attendance and discipline, besides ensuring timely execution of civil works and other educational initiatives. This move is expected to strengthen field-level supervision and improve the quality of school education across the state.

He said Haryana continues to outperform the national average in school enrolment. According to UDISE 2025-26, the State’s Gross Enrolment Ratio stands at 94 per cent at the secondary level against the national average of 81.5 per cent, while the higher secondary GER is 79 per cent, compared with the national average of 61.7 per cent. Free transport, bicycles and the Vidyarthi Parivahan Suraksha Yojana are helping in improving school attendance, particularly in rural areas.

To bring school dropouts back into the education system, nearly 2,000 out-of-school adolescents aged 15-19 have been identified for mainstreaming during 2026-27. The state has earmarked ₹40 lakh to provide financial assistance towards board examination fees and stationery for economically weaker students. The School Education Department is working with the National Institute of Open Schooling (NIOS), while teachers will counsel dropout students to resume their education. The department is also identifying one government school in every district as a model institution for vocational and flexible learning to support students pursuing alternative education pathways, he added.

Reviewing infrastructure, the Chief Secretary was informed that Haryana has achieved 100 per cent availability of electricity, safe drinking water and separate toilets for boys and girls in government schools. Nearly 99 per cent of schools are equipped with digital infrastructure, including smart classrooms, ICT laboratories, internet connectivity and STEM facilities.

Officials also highlighted the State’s focus on academic excellence through 218 Model Sanskriti Schools, 251 PM SHRI Schools, 250 Chief Minister Education Encouragement of Excellence Schools, the expanded Super-100 programme for 500 students and Mission Buniyaad for strengthening foundational learning.

The meeting further reviewed the rollout of Holistic Progress Cards, expansion of teacher training under a new Continuous Professional Development framework covering more than 1.1 lakh teachers, and the launch of the School Accreditation Haryana (SACH) Portal, which will strengthen the quality assessment and academic monitoring across government schools.

Chief Secretary Anurag Rastogi said Haryana’s education reforms are focused on creating a modern, technology-driven and skill-oriented education system that equips every student with the knowledge and competencies needed to succeed in higher education and in the evolving global economy.

Chandigarh, July 18 – Chief Minister Sh. Nayab Singh Saini said that the fight against drugs is not merely a law-and-order issue, but a campaign to protect society, values and humanity. He said that drugs are destroying numerous families and pushing the future of the youth towards darkness. Therefore, giving this fight the shape of a people’s movement through public participation is the need of the hour.

The Chief Minister was addressing the “Ek Police, Ek Sankalp – ‘Drug-Free Haryana’” programme organised at the Haryana Police Academy, Madhuban, Karnal, on Saturday as the chief guest. The dialogue programme, held with all Station House Officers (SHOs) of Haryana Police, aimed to further strengthen the resolve to make the state completely drug-free and to formulate an effective strategy in this direction.

*CM Congratulates 70 Super-100 Students

The Chief Minister congratulated the 70 students of the Super-100 programme who have successfully cleared the NEET examination and secured admission to medical colleges. He said that most of these students belong to economically weaker and ordinary families. Their success is the result of the government’s efforts to provide quality education and better opportunities to meritorious students.

On the occasion, the Chief Minister also released the quarterly magazine of the Police Department. The magazine highlights the department’s major achievements and important operations, including the extradition of criminals from foreign countries and their return to India.

*Every Police Station Should Become a Centre of Social Transformation*

The Chief Minister said that every police station should not remain confined to maintaining law and order, but should also become a centre of social transformation. Station House Officers should establish regular dialogue with schools, colleges, panchayats, voluntary organisations, religious organisations and youth clubs in their respective areas and motivate young people to stay away from drugs and crime.

He said that today, the drug trade is reaching the youth through modern technology, social media and organised crime. Therefore, the police must also remain alert, proactive and capable in accordance with modern technology. Merely arresting drug traffickers is not enough; it is essential to dismantle the entire network. At the same time, strengthening trust between the police and the public is equally important.

The Chief Minister said that along with effective action against drugs, equal attention must be given to awareness, sensitivity and rehabilitation. Only when the police, families, teachers, doctors, social organisations, women and youth come together and work collectively will the goal of a drug-free Haryana be achieved.

He said that keeping Haryana’s youth away from drugs and connecting them with sports is a priority of the government. Haryana is to be made a hub of sports so that the youth, instead of falling prey to drugs, take to the field and win gold medals for the country. Healthy, disciplined and sports-oriented youth will be the greatest strength in building Viksit Bharat.

*Anti-Drug Task Forces to be Formed at Every Level*

The Chief Minister said that Anti-Drug Task Forces would be constituted at the state, district, subdivision, block, village and ward levels. These task forces would include public representatives, Station House Officers, officers from the Health, Education and Social Welfare Departments, voluntary organisations, social organisations, youth and women’s groups, chemists’ associations and eminent citizens, so that a comprehensive social campaign against drugs could be conducted.

He called upon the Station House Officers to work with honesty, transparency and sensitivity and said that if every SHO resolves not to allow the drug trade in his area, there will be no place for the drug mafia in Haryana. He said that the police uniform is a symbol of service, discipline and patriotism, and its dignity must be upheld under all circumstances.

The Chief Minister said that to realise Prime Minister Sh. Narendra Modi’s vision of Viksit Bharat-2047, it is essential for the youth to be healthy, aware, drug-free and connected with sports. He called upon all police officers to make the ‘Drug-Free Haryana’ campaign a people’s campaign and play an active role in building the bright future of the state.

*Chief Minister Announces Several Measures on Demands of Police Officers*

During the interaction with police officers, Chief Minister Sh. Nayab Singh Saini made several important announcements on various suggestions and demands related to the department. He said that the amount available under the Investigation Head would be increased to Rs. 10 crore so that Investigation Officers (IOs) could be provided with the necessary resources for the effective implementation of the new criminal laws.

He said that a separate reward policy for Haryana would be formulated for police officers who perform outstanding work against drug traffickers. For this purpose, the reward policies of other states would be studied and a policy suited to Haryana would be prepared.

The Chief Minister said that a software-based end-to-end monitoring system would be developed to prevent the misuse of dual-purpose drugs. Until the system is developed, necessary directions would be issued to all concerned officers to effectively curb the misuse of such medicines.

He said that the government was also considering better management of the work of Group-D employees. For this purpose, software would be developed to ensure that duties are assigned to employees in accordance with their qualifications and skills.

The Chief Minister said that deputation of Medical Officers from the Health Department would be ensured to provide better healthcare facilities to police personnel and their families. At the same time, the Social Welfare and Health Departments would be directed to prepare a detailed proposal for establishing modern drug de-addiction and rehabilitation centres in every district of the state, with priority given to particularly sensitive districts.

He also said that a meeting would be held with representatives associated with print, electronic and social media, as well as content creators, to seek suggestions on effectively curbing the glorification of gangsters and criminals. A decision on issuing the necessary advisory would be taken thereafter.

Making another important announcement, the Chief Minister said that Station House Officers who successfully make their respective areas effectively drug-free would be honoured by the government after due verification. He said that this initiative would promote healthy competition among SHOs and give fresh momentum to the Drug-Free Haryana campaign.

On the occasion, Director General of Police Sh. Ajay Singhal said that the department was continuously conducting special campaigns across the state against drug traffickers and taking effective action to dismantle their networks. He said that the police was not only taking strict action against drug traffickers but was also creating awareness among the youth and the general public about the harmful effects of drugs through various awareness campaigns. He also provided information about various campaigns being conducted by the department and their achievements.

MLA Sh. Yogendra Rana, Mayor of Karnal Smt. Renu Bala Gupta, Additional Chief Secretary, Home Department, Sh. Sudhir Rajpal, Director of Haryana Police Academy, Madhuban, Smt. Kala Ramachandran, Director General of Police, Haryana State Enforcement Bureau, Sh. Navdeep Singh Virk, Sh. Pankaj Nain, along with senior officers and personnel of the Police Department, were present on the occasion.

Chandigarh, July 18

Chief Justice of India Justice Surya Kant on Saturday launched the Comprehensive Youth Recovery & Rehabilitation Campaign in Punjab, a state-wide initiative aimed at tackling substance abuse among youth.

The campaign was inaugurated in the presence of the Acting Chief Justice of Punjab & Haryana High Court and other High Court judges.

The spokesperson of Punjab State Legal Services Authority said the 3-month drive will be run in mission mode by all District Legal Services Authorities from July 18 to October 31, 2026.

He further said that the objective of the campaign is to support vulnerable youth through structured rehabilitation, prevent substance abuse, ensure access to treatment and facilitate long-term social reintegration so that affected individuals can lead healthy and drug-free lives.

He said that special focus will be given to incarcerated persons suffering from substance dependence to help them overcome addiction with dignity.

He said that for this initiative a three-phase plan has been designed. In Phase 1: July 18-31* – Institutional preparation, capacity building, district mapping and identification of vulnerable areas and individuals.  In Phase 2: Sept 1-30 – Voluntary counseling, family counseling and referrals to government de-addiction centres by DLSAs. Confidentiality of beneficiaries will be maintained and in Phase 3: Oct 1-31- Post-treatment rehabilitation and follow-up. Recovered youth will be linked with schools, colleges, vocational training, skill development, employment exchanges and sports/yoga to prevent relapse.

The spokesperson said a multi-sectoral network involving the Health Department, Prison Department, education and skill development agencies, police, civil society and community leaders will implement the campaign.

Spokesperson added that the drive will not end in October and will be repeated every quarter for long-term support.

The Punjab State Legal Services Authority appealed to parents, teachers, youth groups and healthcare professionals to join the effort to build a drug-free Punjab.

Chandigarh, July 18:

Punjab State Legal Services Authority has today successfully organized the Special Lok Adalat for cases relating to NI Act, 1881 across the State of Punjab.

This Special Lok Adalat was organized under the Patronage of Hon’ble Ashwani Kumar Mishra, the Acting Chief Justice of Punjab & Haryana High Court and Executive Chairman, Punjab State Legal Services Authority.

 To make justice accessible to every citizen, the Lok Adalat witnessed enthusiastic participation from litigants, judicial officers, advocates, and other stakeholders. This initiative not only provided immediate relief to litigants but also contributed significantly to the reduction of pendency of cases in courts.

 During this Special Lok Adalat, total 175 Lok Adalat Benches were constituted across all Districts and Sub-Divisions of the State, wherein total 17723 cases were taken up, out of which 4871 cases were amicably settled. The awards amounting to Rs. 130,89,99,050/- have been passed.

Through this Special Lok Adalat, thousands of litigants across the State of Punjab were able to resolve their disputes relating to Negotiable instruments Act, 1881 expeditiously. Several long-pending matters have been successfully settled.

On this occasion, Hon’ble Mr. Justice Ashwani Kumar Mishra, the Acting Chief Justice, Punjab & Haryana High Court and Executive Chairman, Punjab State Legal Services Authority, appreciated the dedicated efforts of Judicial Officers, District Legal Services Authorities, and volunteers across the State, whose collective commitment ensured the successful conduct of this mega event.

Punjab State Legal Services Authority also extends its deep gratitude to the Hon’ble High Court of Punjab and Haryana, all District Legal Services Authorities, the State Judiciary, Members of the Bar, Police Authorities, and the Civil Administration for their invaluable support and cooperation.

Chandigarh, July 18, 2026: Senior BJP leader Sanjay Tandon on Saturday participated in the grand Bhagwan Shri Jagannath Rath Yatra organised by ISKCON Temple, Sector 36, Chandigarh. The spiritually uplifting procession witnessed enthusiastic participation from devotees who joined the yatra with deep faith, devotion and religious fervour.
Speaking on the occasion, Tandon said, “The Jagannath Rath Yatra is not merely a religious procession; it is a celebration of our timeless cultural heritage and spiritual values. Such events strengthen the bonds of faith, unity and social harmony, inspiring people to walk together on the path of righteousness and service.”
Joining the sacred procession, Tandon offered prayers to Lord Jagannath for the happiness, prosperity, good health and well-being of all citizens, as well as for global peace and harmony.

He said, “Where the chariot of devotion moves, faith itself paves the way. I prayed to Lord Jagannath to bless every family in the country with happiness, prosperity, good health and a spirit of compassion. May His divine blessings guide us towards a peaceful, progressive and harmonious society.”
Tandon appreciated the efforts of ISKCON Chandigarh and the volunteers for organising the event in a disciplined and devotional manner, adding that such spiritual gatherings play a vital role in preserving India’s rich cultural traditions while fostering a sense of unity and collective responsibility among people.

Chandigarh, July 17: The eco-friendly rally organized in Jind conveyed a strong message of promoting green energy and raising public awareness about the importance of clean environment. A large number of people, representatives of social organizations, and administrative officials participated enthusiastically in the rally. Participants used electric vehicles (EVs) and other green energy-powered vehicles, demonstrating their commitment to environmental conservation.

Prime Minister Sh. Narendra Modi addressed a massive public gathering in Jind after flagging off the country’s first hydrogen train from the city. Welcoming the Prime Minister, Haryana Chief Minister Sh. Nayab Singh Saini said the Prime Minister is not only a symbol of the hopes, aspirations, and trust of 1.4 billion Indians but also the architect of a Viksit Bharat (Developed India). The Chief Minister expressed his gratitude to the Prime Minister for dedicating nine major development projects worth ₹14,721 crore to Haryana.

Chief Minister Sh. Nayab Singh Saini said under the leadership of Prime Minister Sh. Narendra Modi, the country has witnessed unprecedented transformation over the past 12 years. Today’s India is not merely talking about development but is presenting a new model of development to the world. The nation is making rapid progress in every sector, including infrastructure, railways, roads, expressways, metro connectivity, healthcare, education, and digital governance.

Sh. Nayab Singh Saini said the Prime Minister has dedicated nine major development projects worth more than ₹14,721 crore to Haryana, giving a new direction to the state’s growth. He said the day was historic not only for Haryana but for the entire country, as India, under the visionary leadership of the Prime Minister, is setting new benchmarks in every field. There was a time when India sought technology from the world, but today the world wants to adopt India’s technology. There was a time when India looked for opportunities abroad, but today the world is looking for opportunities in India. The same world that once questioned India’s capabilities now recognizes it as a confident nation leading a new era.

Welcoming the Prime Minister, the Chief Minister said that the launch of the country’s first hydrogen train from the soil of Haryana is a matter of great pride for the state. He said this is a strong example of the Prime Minister’s vision of green energy and an Atmanirbhar Bharat, and marks a historic step towards clean, modern, and environment-friendly transportation.

The Chief Minister said that under the Prime Minister’s leadership, Haryana has received assistance of more than ₹7 lakh crore through various Central Government schemes over the past 12 years, thanks to the double-engine government. This support has accelerated the expansion of national highways, railways, metro projects, healthcare institutions, and other infrastructure across the state. He further stated that during the Prime Minister’s 4,435 days of dedicated public service, this was his 18th visit to Haryana. On previous occasions as well, the Prime Minister had dedicated development projects worth more than ₹71,000 crore to the state. The projects launched today will further accelerate Haryana’s development.

The Chief Minister said that under the Prime Minister’s guidance, Haryana has achieved remarkable progress in education, healthcare, agriculture, industry, and infrastructure. The state has fulfilled its target of establishing one college every 20 kilometres, while PM SHRI Schools or Sanskriti Model Schools are being developed every 10 kilometres. Haryana currently has 17 medical colleges, of which 11 have been established during the past 12 years, while three more are under construction.

He said that Haryana is the first state in the country to procure all 24 crops at the Minimum Support Price (MSP) to safeguard farmers’ interests. He added that the state has set a target of strengthening all canals that are over 20 years old by 2031 to improve irrigation infrastructure, while the restoration of 450 water reservoirs is also progressing rapidly. The Chief Minister further said that out of the 217 commitments made to the people during the elections, the State Government has already fulfilled 66, and work is progressing swiftly to complete the remaining commitments within the stipulated time.

He also informed that, in line with the Prime Minister’s appeal, the massive public gathering in Jind was organized as a completely environment-friendly event. Most participants travelled in petrol- and diesel-free vehicles, making it an important initiative towards transforming the vision of a Green India into a people’s movement. The Chief Minister expressed confidence that Haryana would play a leading role in realizing the Prime Minister’s vision of Viksit Bharat 2047, and that the first glimpse of a Viksit Bharat would emerge from Haryana.

Haryana Governor Prof. Ashim Kumar Ghosh, Union Railways Minister Sh. Ashwini Vaishnaw, Deputy Speaker of the Haryana Legislative Assembly Dr. Krishan Lal Middha, along with Haryana Ministers, Members of Parliament, and Members of the Legislative Assembly, were also present on the occasion.

Union Railways Minister Sh. Ashwini Vaishnaw described the launch of India’s first hydrogen train in Jind as a historic milestone in the nation’s railway history, saying the initiative symbolises India’s growing strength in railway innovation, self-reliance, and clean energy. He said that under the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Sh. Narendra Modi, Indian Railways is making rapid progress towards becoming a modern, safe, and environment-friendly transportation system.

Addressing a public gathering in Jind on Friday, Sh. Ashwini Vaishnaw said the day marked a moment of immense pride for India as the country had achieved a significant breakthrough in the development of hydrogen-based rail technology. He said the Government of India has resolved to develop modern and cutting-edge technologies, under which hydrogen is being developed as a clean fuel for railway operations.

The Railways Minister said that India has now joined the ranks of a select group of countries that have developed the complete technological ecosystem required for hydrogen-powered trains. He informed that the hydrogen production plant established in Jind is a major achievement in this direction. The plant produces hydrogen through the electrolysis of water, generating clean energy without causing pollution or harmful emissions. He said this technology will play an important role in environmental conservation and in strengthening green transportation.

Sh. Vaishnaw said that Indian Railways has undergone unprecedented transformation over the past decade under the leadership of Prime Minister Sh. Narendra Modi. The introduction of modern trains such as the Vande Bharat Express and Amrit Bharat Express, the large-scale redevelopment of railway stations, the modernization of railway tracks, and now the induction of advanced technologies such as hydrogen trains clearly reflect this transformation. He added that the Government’s objective is to develop Indian Railways into a world-class, modern, and technology-driven transportation system.

Highlighting the growth of the railway sector in Haryana, the Railways Minister said that the state has witnessed record investment in railway infrastructure during the tenure of the present Government. He stated that during the previous Congress Government, Haryana received around ₹315 crore for railway projects, whereas the current Government has increased the allocation to nearly ₹3,500 crore—an almost eleven-fold increase.

Chandigarh, July 17: The positive impact of Prime Minister Sh. Narendra Modi’s call for environmental protection, conservation of petrol and diesel, and promotion of clean energy was clearly visible at the massive public rally held in Jind on Friday.

A large number of people reached the venue using electric vehicles (EVs), thereby promoting green and sustainable transportation.

For the rally, 155 electric buses, 311 electric cars and 273 CNG buses were used. To ensure the smooth operation of EVs and provide charging facilities, 41 EV charging stations were set up, while six additional reserve charging stations were also kept available. Besides, a total of 91 EV charging guns (nozzles) were arranged to ensure uninterrupted charging of the vehicles.

This initiative is not only a significant step towards saving fuel but also reflects the growing awareness among people about clean energy, green transportation and environmental protection. The extensive use of electric vehicles demonstrates that citizens are coming forward to adopt clean and sustainable transportation systems.

During the preparations ahead of the rally, around 135 electric buses were charged at EV charging stations on July 16 and 17, while nearly 150 electric cars also availed themselves of these charging facilities during the rally.

The Jind rally was not merely a political event but also emerged as a strong example of the growing awareness in society towards clean energy, green transportation and environmental protection. The extensive use of electric vehicles conveyed the message that modern technology and clean energy-based transportation can help save fuel while also effectively reducing pollution.

Under the leadership of Prime Minister Sh. Narendra Modi, continuous efforts are being made across the country to promote electric mobility, green energy, green transportation and sustainable development. The public rally in Jind stands as a testimony to the fact that ordinary citizens are also being inspired by these efforts and are moving forward towards adopting an environment-friendly lifestyle. The extensive use of electric vehicles by Haryana during the event conveyed the message that development and environmental protection can go hand in hand, and that public participation plays a crucial role in building a greener future.

Chandigarh, July 17: Prime Minister Sh. Narendra Modi, while appreciating the working style of Chief Minister Sh. Nayab Singh Saini said that Haryana’s double-engine government is working on the mantra of Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas. Under the leadership of Chief Minister Sh. Nayab Singh Saini, the Haryana Government is doing excellent work for the youth, farmers, and women of the state. The path shown by the Haryana Government of providing jobs without ‘kharchi-parchi’ was not easy, but the BJP government has made it possible. Haryana is now moving rapidly on the path of development. Agriculture and industry are the two pillars that are strengthening Haryana.

The Prime Minister was addressing a massive public rally organised in Jind on Friday after flagging off the country’s first hydrogen train from Jind. Governor of Haryana Prof. Ashim Kumar Ghosh, Chief Minister Sh. Nayab Singh Saini and Union Railway Minister Sh. Ashwini Vaishnaw, Haryana Vidhan Sabha deputy speaker Dr. Krishan Middha, were present on the occasion.

Speaking in Haryanvi, Sh. Narendra Modi said that he was overwhelmed with happiness upon coming to Jind. “This is no ordinary land. This is a land of history, valour, faith and pride. The name and blessings of Shakti Peeth Mata Jayantiya always remain with this city. The affection and love shown by the people here will never be forgotten. The milk, curd and ghee of the Murrah buffalo, Jind’s desi boora and its ghevar are memories that are inseparably associated with Jind,” he said.

The Prime Minister said that Jind’s ghee and ghevar may not have changed over the years, but Jind’s spirit has changed. Today, Jind is emerging as a picture of the BJP-NDA’s good governance model. Over the past few years, the entire Haryana has embarked on a new track of development. Today’s programme is infusing new energy into the mission of the BJP’s double-engine government.

He said that Jind and Haryana’s name had been etched in the pages of history today. The country has received its first hydrogen train from Jind. Even today, we read and hear that India’s first train ran between Bombay and Thane. Similarly, whenever hydrogen trains are mentioned in the future, the names of Jind, Sonipat and Haryana will also be remembered.

He said that Haryana had also received other projects worth more than Rs 14,000 crore. These include projects related to railways, highways and heritage, while two new medical colleges have also been dedicated to the service of Haryana. This will open new avenues for the youth to become doctors and other medical professionals. Besides this, Prime Minister handed over the keys to 5 beneficiaries of PMAY (Rural).

The Prime Minister praised the people of Jind and Haryana and said that the seriousness with which people had embraced the Swachhata Se Swagat initiative was heartening. The cleanliness campaign had been widely discussed on social media over the past week. He urged everyone to resolve that cleanliness should become their nature and part of their values, and that they should continue to make cleanliness a part of their daily lives.

The Prime Minister said that the railways of the 19th century were identified with steam engines. The railways of the 20th century were powered by diesel and electricity, while the railway of the 21st century is powered by hydrogen. Today, Indian Railways has taken a major step in this 21st-century technology. The hydrogen train has commenced operations between Jind and Sonipat. At present, the journey covers 90 kilometres, but there is immense potential for expansion in the future.

Hydrogen trains have emerged globally only recently, around seven to eight years ago. At present, only three or four countries in the world have the capability to operate hydrogen trains. Even in countries where such trains are currently operational, the technology is still at a very early stage. However, the hydrogen train operating between Jind and Sonipat is the world’s most powerful hydrogen train. With a capacity of 3,200 horsepower, India’s hydrogen train is not only the most powerful but also the longest hydrogen train in the world. By operating a 10-coach hydrogen train right from the outset, India has made its mark on the global stage.

India’s hydrogen train is not only emission-free but is also a highly successful example of Make in India. The train has been designed by Indian engineers and manufactured by an Indian company. This hydrogen train is completely different from other trains. He said that more infrastructure related to hydrogen trains would be developed in the region in the coming times and new factories would be established to meet the requirements of the hydrogen train network. The train is certain to create numerous new employment opportunities for the youth of Haryana.

The Prime Minister said that the major changes witnessed in Indian Railways over the past 12 years had benefited the country. For the past several months, war has been raging across West Asia, including the entire Hormuz region, Iran and the Gulf. The maritime route through which large quantities of petrol, diesel, LPG and fertilisers for farmers reach India from the Hormuz region has been continuously affected by conflict for the last three to four months.

He said that if such a situation had arisen before 2014, the entire railway system of India would have come to a standstill. At that time, a large part of the country had trains that ran solely on diesel. If the supply of diesel had stopped, how would diesel-powered trains have operated? The country would have faced a major crisis. But this is not the situation of 2014; this is the new India under Modi. The Prime Minister said that he thinks ahead and also implements solutions to problems on the ground well in advance.

He said that Jind is now being connected with several highways. The Haryana section of the Delhi-Amritsar-Katra Expressway was inaugurated today, while the Jind-Gohana National Highway was also dedicated to the nation. Besides, the Ambala-Kala Amb four-lane highway will provide significant convenience to the people of Haryana and Himachal Pradesh. Jind has now become a district connected with five national highways. Such connectivity will make it easier and cheaper for farmers and livestock owners to transport their produce to major markets. It will give a boost to industries, promote tourism and create a large number of new employment opportunities.

The Prime Minister said that he had recently returned from a visit to Indonesia, Australia and New Zealand. During the visit, India entered into several agreements. However, there was one subject that had not received as much attention. This subject is particularly connected with the youth of Haryana. Extensive discussions were held with the governments of Australia and New Zealand on sports. In the coming times, India will work together with both countries on several aspects, including the sports industry and training of athletes. This will greatly benefit the youth of Haryana as well.

He said that sports are being transformed into a major means of fitness and employment in India. The government has also formulated a new National Sports Policy, the Khelo Bharat Policy. From the Khelo India campaign to the TOPS scheme, athletes are receiving unprecedented facilities and financial assistance worth thousands of rupees. Here in Haryana too, the BJP government is providing strong encouragement to sports and athletes.

The Prime Minister said that India will host the Commonwealth Games in 2030. Preparations are being made with full commitment for the Olympic Games to be held in India in 2036. Therefore, every athlete must prepare rigorously and give their best. He assured that the BJP’s double-engine government would provide every facility to athletes. He said that those who wish to witness the 2036 Olympics must focus on children who are currently between five and 12-15 years of age. He further said that the World Police and Fire Games would also be held in Ahmedabad in the coming times. The Prime Minister urged the athletes of Haryana to prepare wholeheartedly for this as well. He expressed confidence that the sons and daughters of Haryana would, as always, make the state proud and fly its flag high.

The Prime Minister said that the welfare of farmers is a priority for the government. The Jind Mandi is one of the largest mandis in Haryana. The farmers of Haryana are benefiting greatly due to the BJP’s double-engine government. Under the PM-KISAN Samman Nidhi, farmers in Haryana have received nearly Rs 8,000 crore. Of this, farmers in Jind have received more than Rs 600 crore.

He said that India is a country of traditions and culture, and this region is a major centre of its rich heritage. This is the land of Jind, which carries the glory of Maharaja Ranjit Singh as well as the faith of the Pandavas. Sacred pilgrimage sites such as Pandu-Pindara and Ramrai continue to be centres of faith for lakhs of devotees. This rich legacy of faith and spirituality is being preserved by today’s India and is also being passed on to the next generation with full respect. With this sentiment, the foundation stone of a Sikh Museum was laid in Kurukshetra today. This new museum of Haryana will take India’s great Guru tradition to future generations.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi today laid the  foundation stone and dedicated to the nation various development projects worth over Rs 4,700 crore in Chandigarh, spanning healthcare, education and road infrastructure. Highlighting the city’s unique status as an exemplary model for systematic national progress, he emphasized its reputation for ensuring a better lifestyle and ease of living. Acknowledging the divine grace of Maa Chandi over the region, he reaffirmed the ruling administration’s unwavering commitment to its continuous, structured growth. “The development of Chandigarh has always been the absolute priority of the current government,“ asserted Modi.

Recalling the historic and massive overhaul of the nation’s justice system implemented a year and a half ago, the Prime Minister pointed out the transition from punitive colonial laws to a justice-oriented framework. “The implementation of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita began from Chandigarh itself,“ observed Shri Modi.

Detailing the financial investments made to modernize the urban landscape, the Prime Minister listed transformative initiatives such as the Integrated Command and Control Center, Smart Traffic Management, and Digital Governance. Congratulating the residents on the inauguration of health, education, and infrastructure projects, he highlighted the massive capital infusion driving these futuristic upgrades. “More than two and a half thousand crore rupees have been spent on this mission to make the city high-tech,“ noted Shri Modi.

Charting his extensive daily itinerary dedicated to regional advancement, the Prime Minister mentioned his prior engagement in Jind, Haryana, and his upcoming visit to Jalandhar, Punjab. He framed his current stop as a vital geographic and administrative bridge seamlessly linking the neighboring states. “Our Chandigarh effectively connects both Haryana and Punjab,“ remarked Shri Modi.

Emphasizing the broader regional impact of localized urban growth, the Prime Minister explained how enhancements in the city directly elevate the quality of life for neighboring populations across Himachal Pradesh and Jammu and Kashmir. He specifically spotlighted the city’s indispensable and central role in regional healthcare delivery. “For medical services, Chandigarh is a mega hub in this entire region,“ observed Shri Modi.

Announcing the major expansion of advanced healthcare facilities at the local medical institute, the Prime Minister introduced critical new additions including a Neuroscience Center, a Mother and Child Center, and a Critical Care Hospital Block. “These projects will provide even better treatment facilities to millions of people,“ affirmed Shri Modi.

Recalling his previous visit to the institute’s convocation ceremony in 2015, the Prime Minister praised the extraordinary capacity building achieved over the past decade. He extended his heartfelt best wishes to the administrative team, academic staff, and medical practitioners continuously driving this progress. “I deeply appreciate the professors and young doctors here for expanding the institution’s capabilities,“ remarked Modi.

Drawing a direct correlation between robust public health and strict sanitation standards, the Prime Minister recalled the nationwide launch of the Swachh Bharat Mission. He detailed the massive structural changes implemented, from building crores of toilets to eradicating open defecation, while praising the city for striving to improve its cleanliness rankings. “Various initiatives were started so that cleanliness firmly becomes a part of our daily lifestyle,“ asserted Modi.

Singling out a local retired IPS officer for exceptional civic dedication, the Prime Minister lauded Inderjit Singh Sidhu ji, widely known as the ‘Broom Warrior’, for sparking a grassroots sanitation movement. He proudly acknowledged the government’s decision to formally recognize these inspiring community efforts with a prestigious national award. “For awakening a new awareness, our government honored him with the Padma award this year,“ noted Modi.

Characterizing public hygiene as a continuous way of life rather than a one-off event, the Prime Minister expressed delight that the day’s program integrated a special ‘Swachhta se Swagat’ drive. He commended the local citizens for embracing this initiative, underscoring its vital role in proactive disease prevention. “Cleanliness campaigns have proven to be incredibly helpful in preventing numerous diseases across the country,“ affirmed Modi.

Reflecting on past global anxieties regarding the nation’s healthcare capacity, the Prime Minister contrasted the historical skepticism during crises with the country’s proactive leadership during the Corona pandemic. He proudly noted that instead of seeking aid, the nation extended assistance and has now transformed into a premier global destination for complex medical treatments. “Our government completely changed India’s capability and radically altered the world’s perspective,“ asserted Shri Modi.

Attributing this paradigm shift to twelve years of dedicated policy execution, the Prime Minister recalled the foundational pledge to eradicate medical deprivation and ensure affordable, high-quality care for all citizens. “The success of the country in the last twelve years is the direct result of this very resolution,“ affirmed Shri Modi.

Cataloging the aggressive nationwide expansion of medical infrastructure, the Prime Minister highlighted the approval of 15 new AIIMS post-2014, the establishment of hundreds of medical colleges, and the rapid proliferation of specialty hospitals. He proudly referenced his 2022 inauguration of the Homi Bhabha Cancer Hospital at Chandigarh, which now expertly serves thousands of patients. “In recent years, India has rapidly and massively expanded its healthcare infrastructure,“ noted Modi.

Shifting focus to grassroots medical access, the Prime Minister detailed the Ayushman Bharat Health Infrastructure Mission’s role in fortifying primary care through Critical Care Blocks and Public Health Labs. He revealed that nearly 1.75 lakh Ayushman Arogya Mandirs are currently providing vital screening and comprehensive health packages across urban, rural, and tribal demographics. “Attention is intensely being paid to the rapid development of primary healthcare facilities in every single village,“ observed Shri Modi.

Highlighting the revolutionary integration of digital technology into public health, the Prime Minister praised the e-Sanjeevani mission for democratizing access to expert medical consultations. He shared that remote populations can now easily connect with top-tier specialists without undertaking arduous physical journeys. “Today, more than 48 crore telemedicine consultations have successfully taken place across the country,“ noted Modi.

Quantifying the life-saving impact of these sweeping medical reforms, the Prime Minister revealed that over 90 percent of childbirths now occur in highly secure institutional settings. He shared staggering statistics reflecting a massive 86 percent drop in maternal mortality alongside a steep decline in infant deaths nationwide. “Due to this massive expansion of health services, there has been a huge drop in the infant mortality rate as well,“ affirmed Modi.

Balancing therapeutic advancements with proactive wellness strategies, the Prime Minister emphasized the administration’s dual focus on preventive healthcare. He credited holistic initiatives like the Poshan Abhiyan, Mission Indradhanush, Yoga promotion, HPV vaccination campaigns, and U – WIN platform  for actively shielding massive populations from potential health crises. “Due to many such critical efforts, the lives of crores of people are continuously being secured,“ remarked Modi.

Outlining the aggressive national crusade against tuberculosis, the Prime Minister detailed the community-driven TB Mukt Bharat Abhiyan’s fierce focus on timely screening and treatment. Citing a recent WHO report, he celebrated a 21 percent reduction in infections over the past decade and robust treatment coverage exceeding 90 percent. “Through active public participation, every single individual is being made highly aware,“ asserted Shri Modi.

Identifying the primary beneficiaries of this healthcare revolution, the Prime Minister stated that lower and middle-income families are reaping the most significant rewards. He emphasized a fundamental philosophical shift in the nation’s approach to equitable medical access. “Health services in India are no longer a privilege, they are becoming an absolute right,“ affirmed Shri Modi.

Addressing the historic bottlenecks in medical education, the Prime Minister recounted the severe shortage of academic seats that previously shattered the aspirations of young students. He announced that the number of medical colleges has nearly doubled, with record increases in postgraduate slots and the recent, highly anticipated approval of an MBBS college at the local institute. “This immense expansion will give talented youth the chance to study in top institutes and provide the country with the best doctors,“ observed Shri Modi.

Praising the city’s unique concentration of educational, engineering, and medical research institutions, the Prime Minister forecasted its rapid rise as a premier hub for startups and technological innovation. To accelerate this academic journey, he celebrated the inauguration of the Kurukshetra Boys Hostel at Punjab Engineering College and the foundation laying for new research scholar accommodations. “It is our endeavor that our youth get the best possible labs and better faculty for advanced research,“ asserted Modi.

Linking rigorous academic environments directly to technological breakthroughs, the Prime Minister stressed the absolute necessity of a robust research ecosystem to propel advancements in Artificial Intelligence, semiconductors, and deep-tech. He expressed unwavering faith in local educators and students to spearhead this critical national objective. “Only when the research environment is truly strong will innovation rapidly accelerate,“ affirmed Modi.

Defining robust infrastructure as the ultimate blueprint for economic prosperity, the Prime Minister championed the government’s novel holistic developmental approach. He inaugurated a six-lane greenfield highway from IT City to Kurali to alleviate airport road congestion and laid the foundation for the ‘PR Seven Spur’, promising much smoother transit for regional commuters. “With all such strategic development works, industry and business will gain incredible new momentum,“ noted Modi.

Expanding on the theme of regional connectivity, the Prime Minister announced the simultaneous launch of railway projects in Jalandhar and the historic rollout of the nation’s first clean-fuel hydrogen train connecting Jind to Sonipat. He congratulated the public on this monumental national leap in sustainable, green transportation. “This train running entirely on clean fuel marks a truly momentous beginning for the nation,“ remarked Modi.

Concluding his address with a forward-looking vision for a Viksit Bharat, the Prime Minister urged a relentless focus on future-ready technologies, transit systems, and healthcare architectures. He assured the people of Punjab, Haryana, and Chandigarh that the current administration remains dedicated to building enduring institutions that will serve generations to come. “We must firmly make such bold decisions whose maximum benefits effortlessly reach all our coming generations,“ asserted Modi.