Category Archives: Chandigarh

Past Beadbi Cases Will Be Thoroughly Investigated & Those Responsible Will Go To Jail: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann

TANDA (HOSHIARPUR); 17th June 2026:

Declaring that Punjab’s future can no longer be held hostage to the mistakes and misdeeds of the past regimes, Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann on Wednesday said the state has suffered immensely over the decades but is now moving steadily towards a new era of growth, opportunity and prosperity. During a Lok Milni at Bhattlan village in the Tanda constituency, the Chief Minister said Punjab, despite being blessed with fertile land, abundant water resources, a favourable climate and a hardworking people, was denied its full potential by successive governments that failed to put the interests of the state first.

The Chief Minister said the Punjab Government is committed to creating opportunities for the youth, strengthening education and healthcare, and building a Rangla Punjab where no young person feels compelled to leave for foreign shores in search of a better future.

Reiterating his government’s commitment to justice, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann assured people that past Beadbi (sacrilege) cases would be thoroughly investigated and those responsible would be sent to jail, while adding that the stringent law enacted by the state government would act as a strong deterrent against any future incidents.

Addressing the gathering, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “The incidents of Beadbi at Bargari and the firing incidents at Behbal Kalan and Kotkapura bruised the conscience of every Punjabi, especially the Sikh Sangat. These wounds are still fresh in the minds of the people. I want to assure every Punjabi that justice will prevail and those responsible for these heinous crimes will not be spared.”

The Chief Minister said, “Our government is leaving no stone unturned to ensure justice. The perpetrators of these crimes will be brought to justice and sent behind bars. We have enacted the Jaagat Jot Sri Guru Granth Sahib Satkar Amendment Act, 2026, which provides stringent punishment for Beadbi. This law will ensure that no one dares to commit such an unpardonable offence in future.”

“Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji is like a father to every Sikh. It is our collective duty to uphold its sanctity and respect. If a government cannot safeguard the honour of Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji, then it fails in its most fundamental responsibility towards society,” said CM Bhagwant Singh Mann.

Taking on the Akali leadership, the Chief Minister said, “Those who sought votes in the name of Gurbani failed to protect the sanctity of Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji. They used religion for political gains and the people of Punjab have not forgotten the pain caused by the incidents that occurred during their rule.”

He pointed out, “Some leaders talk about development during their tenure, but they conveniently forget Bargari, Behbal Kalan and Kotkapura. Punjab can never forget those painful chapters. The sins committed against the people and against Punjab’s social fabric can never be erased.”

Speaking about Punjab’s journey, the Chief Minister said, “Punjab has suffered enough. It was devastated during Partition in 1947, suffered again in 1984 and then endured years of loot and exploitation under successive governments. We cannot allow Punjab’s progress to be halted anymore.”

“The Almighty has blessed Punjab with fertile land, abundant water, favourable weather and hardworking people. There is no shortage of resources in Punjab. The only thing Punjab lacked for years was leadership that put the interests of the state above personal and political interests,” he added.

Making an emotional appeal to the youth, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “No young person should feel compelled to dream only of Canada, America or other foreign countries. We are creating opportunities here in Punjab. Together, we will build a Rangla Punjab where our youth can realise their aspirations while staying close to their families and roots.”

The Chief Minister said, “For years, families were pushed into difficult circumstances. Parents were left behind while their children moved abroad in search of opportunities. We are changing that reality by strengthening education, healthcare, employment generation and infrastructure.”

Referring to the massive gathering, the Chief Minister said, “The sight of mothers, sisters, elders and youth gathering here in such large numbers reflects the strong bond between the people and this government. This is not merely a political programme; it is a meeting with my family.”

“The entire Punjab is my family. It is my responsibility to ensure jobs for the youth, quality education for children and quality healthcare for every household. The affection and trust shown by the people inspire me to work even harder,” said CM Bhagwant Singh Mann.

Announcing major relief for women employees, the Chief Minister said, “The Punjab Government has decided that Group C and Group D women employees will be posted within a 40-kilometre radius of their homes. I have directed officers to prepare the framework for implementing this initiative at the earliest. Thousands of women employees, including staff nurses, teachers and women police personnel, will benefit from this decision. We are committed to making governance more sensitive and responsive to the needs of women.”

Highlighting another pioneering initiative, the Chief Minister said, “Punjab has launched the country’s first ambitious project to shift high-tension electricity wires underground. This project will free villages from dangerous overhead wires and unnecessary poles. Overhead wires pose risks to people, livestock and agricultural machinery. Crop fires, storms and accidents frequently damage the power infrastructure. This project will provide long-term relief to people and improve safety across villages.”

The Chief Minister stated, “Today, more than 90% households in Punjab are receiving free electricity. Farmers are receiving power during the daytime, which was once considered impossible. This has helped farmers save thousands of rupees that were earlier spent on diesel for generators.”

He further said, “The AAP Government has laid more than 14,000 kilometres of pipelines and watercourses and released 21,000 cusecs of water to strengthen irrigation across the state. Recharge points have also been created to improve groundwater levels and ensure sustainable water management.”

Highlighting welfare initiatives, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “Under the Mavaan Dheeyan Satkar Yojna, women above 18 years of age from all other categories will receive ₹1,000 per month, while women from the Scheduled Caste category will receive ₹1,500 per month. This assistance is a mark of respect for our mothers and daughters.”

The Chief Minister said, “The smiles on the faces of women benefiting from this scheme give me immense satisfaction. The government stands firmly with every family and every woman of Punjab.”

Speaking about healthcare, the Chief Minister said, “The Mukh Mantri Sehat Yojna is a revolutionary step towards universal healthcare. Every resident family in Punjab is entitled to cashless treatment worth up to ₹10 lakh annually.”

“It is a matter of immense pride that Punjab has become the first state in the country to provide such comprehensive healthcare coverage. So far, people have availed treatment worth more than ₹650 crore under the scheme. This initiative has significantly reduced the financial burden on families while ensuring access to quality healthcare,” added CM Bhagwant Singh Mann.

On the occasion, Cabinet Minister Dr Ravjot Singh, MLAs Jasbir Singh Raja Gill and Karambir Singh Ghuman, along with several other dignitaries, were also present.

Sharing a few snippets from this Lok Milni, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann stated: “I am deeply grateful for the immense love and blessings showered upon me by the people, especially the mothers and sisters, who attended the Lok Milni at Bhattlan village in Hoshiarpur today. Your support reflects your unwavering faith in our policies and governance. Grant cheques for development works were handed over to Bhattlan village and several other panchayats in the area. Along with this, a major decision has been taken to post police constables, clerks and ASHA workers within a radius of just 40 kilometres from their homes. The AAP government will continue working day and night for Punjab’s bright and prosperous future.”

Haryana Government to launch Mechanised Cleaning System for Three District Hospitals

The Haryana Government is set to launch mechanised cleaning and sanitation services through the PPP mode at the District Hospitals of Gurugram, Jind and Kurukshetra. The initiative aims to ensure world-class cleanliness standards across critical patient care areas and create a safer, cleaner and more patient-friendly hospital environment. Approximately Rs. 3 to 3.5 crore will be spent annually on mechanised cleaning and sanitation services in these three hospitals.

Giving further details, Additional Chief Secretary, Health & Family Welfare, Dr. Sumita Misra said that maintaining a clean and hygienic hospital environment is essential for patient safety, infection prevention and improved healthcare outcomes. She said the mechanised cleaning system will help ensure consistent and efficient sanitation across hospital premises while enhancing the overall patient experience.

Dr. Misra directed hospital authorities to maintain the highest standards of cleanliness in toilets, wards, corridors, waiting halls, Intensive Care Units (ICUs), emergency departments, operation theatres and Mother and Child Health (MCH) units. She emphasised that special attention must be paid to high-footfall and critical care areas where hygiene standards directly impact patient safety and infection control.

The ACS Health further instructed officers to establish robust monitoring mechanisms and ensure optimum deployment of sanitation manpower for round-the-clock supervision of housekeeping services. She stressed the need for regular inspections and accountability to sustain high standards of cleanliness throughout the hospital premises.

Dr. Misra said the initiative is in line with the vision of Haryana Chief Minister, Sh. Nayab Singh Saini, to transform government hospitals into modern, efficient and patient-centric healthcare institutions. She observed that a clean hospital environment not only improves patient comfort and satisfaction but also plays a crucial role in reducing healthcare-associated infections and strengthening public confidence in government healthcare facilities.

Expressing confidence in the initiative, Dr. Misra said the mechanised cleaning system would significantly improve the ambience, efficiency and service quality of the three district hospitals, further reinforcing the State Government’s commitment to providing accessible, affordable and quality healthcare services to the people of Haryana.

MoU Signed Between Gita Gyan Sansthanam and Indira Gandhi University

Kurukshetra: With the objective of promoting the study, teaching, research, and dissemination of the universal values of the Bhagavad Gita, a significant Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed today between the Gita Gyan Sansthanam (GIEO GITA), Kurukshetra, and Indira Gandhi University, Meerpur. The MoU was signed by Revered Swami Gyananand Ji Maharaj on behalf of Gita Gyan Sansthanam and Prof. Aseem Miglani, Vice-Chancellor of Indira Gandhi University.

Speaking on the occasion, Vice-Chancellor Prof. Aseem Miglani stated that the Bhagavad Gita is not merely a religious scripture but an eternal guide for humanity. To promote its wisdom, ethical values, and philosophy of life, the University will soon introduce a Certificate Course on the Bhagavad Gita. He further informed that the Gita will also be offered as a Value-Added Course for undergraduate students to help develop qualities such as ethics, leadership, duty consciousness, and life-management skills.
Prof. Miglani further announced that the University plans to establish a Gita Chair in the future to promote advanced research and academic activities related to the Bhagavad Gita. Under this initiative, various research projects will be undertaken, focusing on the philosophical, social, cultural, and management dimensions of the Gita.

He also stated that the University will organize national and international conferences, seminars, workshops, and lecture series on the Bhagavad Gita from time to time. These academic events will facilitate the exchange of the latest research, ideas, and knowledge while providing a common platform for scholars, researchers, and academicians.
Under the MoU, both institutions will jointly conduct short-term and long-term academic programmes on the Bhagavad Gita, promote collaborative research activities, and organize various extension programmes aimed at spreading the knowledge and values of the Gita in society.
On this occasion, Prof. Dilbag Singh, Registrar, and Prof. Sunil Kumar, Dean Academic Affairs, Indira Gandhi University, were also present and signed the Memorandum of Understanding as witnesses.
Prof. Vivek Kohli, Director, Gita Studies and Research Centre, and Dr. Tarun Shastri, Coordinator, Gita Studies and Research Centre, were present and signed the MoU as witnesses. From Gita Gyan Sansthanam, Shri Shastri, Director (Gita Meditation and Research), and Mrs. Mohan Chhabra, Secretary of the institution, were also present. Mohan Chhabra participated in the MoU proceedings on behalf of Gita Gyan Sansthanam.
Faculty members, officials, and distinguished guests from both institutions welcomed this initiative and described it as an important step towards strengthening the Indian Knowledge System and promoting value-based education

HSIIDC’s Efforts Yield Results; Industrial Development Accelerates in Haryana

Chandigarh, June 10: The efforts of the Haryana State Industrial and Infrastructure Development Corporation (HSIIDC) have borne fruit, giving a fresh impetus to industrial development across the state. While numerous companies are choosing Haryana as their preferred destination for establishing manufacturing units, Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) worth ₹1.10 lakh crore have been signed, boosting investment and creating thousands of employment opportunities for the youth.

This was stated during a meeting chaired by Arun Kumar Gupta, Principal Secretary to the Chief Minister and Co-Chairman of HSIIDC, where several important decisions were taken. Discussions were held on land allotments and proposals submitted by various industrial groups, which were subsequently approved. The EEC approved the allotment of more than 36 acres of land in the industrial estates of Sohna, Bawal, Barhi and Dhatheda.

He said that the Haryana Government recently organized the Gurugram Investment Summit, which saw participation from leading industrial groups from India and abroad. These companies expressed their willingness to invest in Haryana. Within just one week, HSIIDC allotted industrial land to seven major companies, demonstrating the state’s commitment to efficient and responsive governance.

The approved projects are expected to bring investments worth ₹1,315.70 crore and generate more than 5,000 employment opportunities. These include Trontek Electronics Limited’s mega investment of ₹790 crore, Orient Fashion Exporters’ investment of ₹51.50 crore, Bollhoff Fastenings’ investment of ₹116.06 crore, Maccor Industries’ investment of ₹45.47 crore, Paras Polymers’ investment of ₹170 crore, Richaco Exports’ investment of ₹92.97 crore, along with several other industrial projects.

He said that Haryana is providing investors with a transparent, efficient and dependable industrial ecosystem. The completion of land allotment procedures within days of the investment summit is proof that the concept of “Speed of Doing Business” in Haryana is not merely a policy announcement but an integral part of its administrative functioning.

Expressing confidence, he said that these investments would further strengthen Haryana’s industrial competitiveness and reinforce the state’s position as one of India’s leading manufacturing and technology hubs.

The meeting was attended by Dr. Amit Agrawal, Commissioner and Secretary, Industries and Commerce Department; Pankaj Yadav, Principal Secretary, Cooperation Department; Ashima Brar, Commissioner and Secretary, Excise and Taxation Department; Dr. Yash Garg, Director General, Industries and Commerce Department; Dr. Amit Khatri, Director, Urban Estates Haryana; Mukul Kumar, Director, Urban Local Bodies Department, Haryana; and Sushil Sarwan, Managing Director, Haryana Financial Corporation.

CPA Conference Sets New Benchmark in Hospitality and Organisation, Guests Impressed by Haryana’s Spirit of Service and Hospitality

Chandigarh, June 10: The Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA) India Region Zone-II Conference, held on June 8–9 under the aegis of the Haryana Vidhan Sabha, set a new benchmark for grand organisation and excellent hospitality.

For this, Vidhan Sabha Speaker Sh. Harvinder Kalyan wrote letters expressing special gratitude to Lok Sabha Speaker Sh. Om Birla, Rajya Sabha Chairman Sh. Harivansh, Haryana Governor Prof. Ashim Kumar Ghosh, and Chief Minister Sh. Nayab Singh Saini for enhancing the dignity of the conference. The Speaker also thanked presiding officers and representatives from all five states of the North Zone and various state legislative assemblies who participated in the conference. Sh. Kalyan said that all participants contributed meaningfully to democratic dialogue through constructive discussions. Deliberations were held on future challenges, exploring pathways to realise the vision of “Viksit Bharat–2047”. Speakers emphasized that legislators play a crucial role in achieving this vision, while an aware society is equally essential.

The two-day conference saw participation from presiding and deputy presiding officers and representatives from 13 legislative assemblies, including five North Zone states, with around 40 participants presenting their views on the designated theme. They particularly appreciated Haryana’s hospitality tradition, referencing the state song line “Atithi Devo Bhava, yahan seva dharm nibhana”.

The Speaker said that during the inaugural session, the Haryana Vidhan Sabha appeared as a “mini India”, where representatives from different states and parties were seen seated together. Participants highly appreciated this arrangement.

At the conclusion of the conference, four written resolutions were adopted, while an informal resolution appreciating the excellent hospitality and well-organised arrangements was also passed by voice vote in favour of Vidhan Sabha Speaker Sh. Harvinder Kalyan.

On Wednesday, the Speaker remained engaged in personally seeing off the guests with respect. He had deployed liaison officers for assistance to each guest and personally ensured that everyone’s needs were taken care of. He also expressed special gratitude to Chief Minister Sh. Nayab Singh Saini, the state government, and all departments involved. He said that the tireless efforts and dedication of Haryana Government officials and Vidhan Sabha staff made the event grand and successful. He also thanked the media, stating that journalists played a constructive role in bringing the conference deliberations to the public, thereby strengthening faith in constitutional values.

Box: Wall of Memory Becomes Centre of Attraction

A “Wall of Memory” was set up near the main conference hall, where public representatives from different states shared their remarks in a unique way. Participants described the platform as an extraordinary learning experience and an unparalleled expression of democratic values. They called it a commendable initiative and a great experience, also describing it as a well-organised platform for meaningful reflection on the future. A large number of participants shared their experiences here.

Parliamentary Research and Innovation Centre

On the first day of the conference, Lok Sabha Speaker Sh. Om Birla inaugurated the “Parliamentary Research and Innovation Centre”. This centre will provide legislators, committee chairpersons, and members with fact-based research, analysis, and reference material. It will support effective functioning of legislative and parliamentary work and promote awareness of best parliamentary and legislative practices.

Democracy Gallery

On the first day, the “Democracy Gallery” was also inaugurated within the Assembly premises. Its objective is to familiarize citizens, especially students and youth, with the Indian Constitution, democratic values, and the functioning of the legislature. The gallery presents the role of the Assembly, legislative procedures, and the importance of democratic institutions in a simple and engaging manner.

Environment Protection Initiative

Following Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s call for judicious use of resources and reduced fuel consumption, transportation arrangements for delegates and officials were made using e-buses on selected routes during the conference. This initiative not only reduced petroleum consumption but also resulted in significant savings in transport costs through shared mobility. A large number of presiding officers, including the Governor and Chief Minister, travelled in these e-buses.

Theatrical Presentation

On Monday, after the inaugural session, a special theatrical performance titled “Samvidhan Ke Nayak” based on constitutional values was staged at Tagore Theatre, Sector-18. A specially written script was prepared for the play to promote awareness of constitutional ideals, values, and civic duties. The performance was presented by artists of Ras Kala Manch. It was attended by Governors of both states, the Lok Sabha Speaker, Deputy Chairman of Rajya Sabha, Chief Minister, Vidhan Sabha Speaker, ministers and members.

Workers should actively participate in the voter list revision campaign: Rao Narender Singh

An important meeting of BLA-1 members, senior Congress leaders, and party workers of the Narnaul Assembly constituency was held on Tuesday under the chairmanship of Haryana Pradesh Congress Committee President Rao Narender Singh.

The meeting discussed in detail the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) Campaign of electoral rolls being conducted by the Election Commission and formulated a strategy for its effective monitoring and implementation at the organizational level.

Addressing the gathering, Rao Narendra Singh said that a clean, accurate, and error-free voter list is essential for strengthening democracy. He urged party office-bearers and workers to visit households and encourage citizens to verify their names in the electoral rolls and get necessary corrections made. He added that the Congress Party remains fully committed to safeguarding democratic values and ensuring the voting rights of every eligible citizen.

Satbir Jhukiya, President of the Mahendragarh District Congress Committee, said that responsibilities are being assigned to party workers at the block and booth levels to ensure that no eligible voter is left out during the revision process. He affirmed that the organization would extend full cooperation in making the campaign successful.

Vinay Yadav, SIR Observer and retired IAS officer, said that the voter list is the foundation of democracy, and ensuring its transparency and accuracy is a collective responsibility of all political parties and citizens. He also appealed to young people to actively participate in the campaign.

Krishna Rao, BLA-1 from Narnaul, emphasized the need for special awareness drives in rural areas so that people are properly informed about the procedures for adding, deleting, and correcting names in the voter list. He said that Congress workers would play an active role in this effort.

Congress leader Arun Sarraf stated that every eligible citizen must be included in the electoral rolls for a strong democracy. He said that party workers would reach out to people at the booth level, help resolve their concerns, and contribute to making the electoral process more effective.

The meeting also included detailed discussions on strengthening the organization, upcoming programs, and various public-interest issues.

Several senior Congress leaders, office-bearers, and party workers from the district were present on the occasion.

Dignitaries deliberate on ‘Role of an aware society and representatives of the people in facing future challenges and realising the goal of Viksit Bharat–2047’

Chandigarh, June 9 – Speakers, Deputy Speakers and legislators from various State Legislatures, along with the Deputy Chairman, Rajya Sabha, participated in the technical session of the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA) India Region Zone-II (North Zone) Conference organised by the Haryana Vidhan Sabha in Chandigarh. The speakers deliberated extensively on the theme ‘Role of an aware society and representatives of the people in facing future challenges and realising the goal of Viksit Bharat–2047’.

Deputy Chairman, Rajya Sabha, Sh. Harivansh, Speaker, Haryana Vidhan Sabha, Sh. Harvinder Kalyan, Deputy Speaker, Dr. Krishan Lal Middha, Speakers from various State Legislatures and several Members of Legislative Assemblies were present.

Welcoming the delegates, Speaker, Haryana Vidhan Sabha, Sh. Harvinder Kalyan expressed hope that all participants would gain new experiences and valuable insights from the technical session and play a meaningful role in the nation’s development.

Speaking on the occasion, Speaker, Madhya Pradesh Legislative Assembly, Sh. Narendra Singh Tomar said that the deliberations held during the conference organised by the Haryana Vidhan Sabha would yield valuable outcomes that would prove to be milestones in achieving the vision of Viksit Bharat-2047. Describing India’s unity in diversity as the nation’s greatest strength, he said that everyone is working collectively to strengthen democracy, which is why India is counted among the world’s leading nations today.

Sh.Tomar said that after celebrating the Amrit Mahotsav the nation is now preparing for its centenary year. He emphasised that it is the responsibility of the present generation to leave behind a prosperous and empowered India for future generations. He called upon everyone to remain economically, socially and civically aware to fulfil Prime Minister, Sh. Narendra Modi’s Vision 2047.

Speaker, Rajasthan Legislative Assembly, Sh. Vasudev Devnani appreciated the Haryana Vidhan Sabha Speaker for selecting the theme, “Role of an aware society and representatives of the people in facing future challenges and realising the goal of ‘Viksit Bharat–2047’” He said that holistic national development can be achieved only when social harmony, environmental sustainability, technology and parliamentary democracy advance together. He emphassised that the responsibility of citizens does not end with electing legislators; rather, they must also support policymakers in formulating development-oriented policies. Emphasising the spirit of “Nation First”, he urged everyone to move forward collectively. He also encouraged legislators to stay updated with emerging technologies such as Artificial Intelligence and cybercrime.

Speaker Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly, Abdul Rahim Rather said that India is progressing as a global leader in development and that efforts must be intensified to accelerate this growth so that citizens become more prosperous and empowered. He encouraged young legislators to focus not only on modern technology but also on research and innovation.

Speaker, Uttar Pradesh Legislative Assembly, Sh. Satish Mahana, in his address, urged legislators to work continuously for public welfare. He expressed satisfaction that people are increasingly discussing economic issues, describing it as a positive sign of a progressive nation. He also advised public representatives to maintain their credibility so that people can approach them freely with their concerns.

Speaker, Himachal Pradesh Legislative Assembly, Sh.  Kuldeep Singh Pathania said that India can become a developed nation only when all states progress equally. He added that the true objective of the conference would be achieved only when legislators discharge their responsibilities with honesty and dedication.

Several legislators and delegates from the Legislative Assemblies of North Zone states were also present during the conference.

Senior BJP leader Sanjay Tandon Leads Delegation to UT Administrator; Preparations of 2027 Asian Roller Skating Championship Discussed

Chandigarh, June 9: Senior BJP leader and  Chairman, Standing Committee of Administrator’s Advisory Council on Sports Management, ⁠Chandigarh Administration –  Sanjay Tandon, led a high-level delegation comprising senior office bearers of the Roller Skating Federation of India (RSFI) and the Chandigarh Roller Skating Association (CRSA) to meet UT Administrator and Punjab Governor Gulab Chand Kataria. The delegation discussed preparations for the prestigious 21st Asian Roller Skating Championship, which is scheduled to be hosted in Chandigarh in 2027, with the Administrator.

The delegation included Tulsiram Agarwal, President of the Roller Skating Federation of India and Arun Walia, President of the Chandigarh Roller Skating Association, along with other representatives.

Sanjay Tandon emphasized that hosting the Asian Roller Skating Championship would be a matter of pride for Chandigarh and will provide a unique opportunity to showcase the city’s sporting infrastructure and organizational capabilities on the international stage. He noted that the event would further strengthen Chandigarh’s reputation as a leading sports hub and inspire greater participation in sports among young athletes.

During the meeting, the delegation apprised the Administrator (UT) of the extensive preparations required for hosting a major international sporting event of this scale. Detailed discussions were held on the upgradation of existing skating facilities, venue readiness, athlete accommodation and amenities, and other infrastructure and logistical requirements necessary to successfully conduct the championship.

The Administrator listened to the delegation’s suggestions and requirements in detail and responded positively to the issues raised. Recognizing the importance of timely planning and execution, the UT Administrator scheduled a meeting with officials of the Sports Department to review the proposals and facilitate coordinated action on the various infrastructure and administrative requirements.

The delegation expressed confidence that with the support of the administration and coordinated efforts of all stakeholders, Chandigarh would be fully prepared to host the championship successfully and set new benchmarks in the organization of international sporting events.

Tandon thanked the Governor for his positive response and commitment towards ensuring that all necessary preparations are completed well in advance of the 2027 Asian Roller Skating Championship.

World Bicycle Day 2026 Celebrated with Great Enthusiasm under ‘Fit India Movement’ at CGC University, Mohali

Mohali,  08 June  

 CGC University, Mohali, in collaboration with the Sports Authority of India (SAI), celebrated ‘World Bicycle Day 2026’ with immense fervor and enthusiasm. The event was organized under the ‘Fit India Movement’, a flagship campaign of the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, Government of India, inspired by the vision of Honorable Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

More than 500 cyclists, including university students, faculty members, staff, sports enthusiasts, and local residents, actively participated in this special bicycle rally. The primary objective of the rally was to promote physical fitness, a healthy lifestyle, environmental conservation, and a sense of community through cycling.

The grand bicycle rally was officially flagged off by Sardar Rajinder Singh (Senior Olympic Gold Medalist, Indian Hockey Legend, Arjuna Awardee-1997, Dronacharya Awardee-2003, former National Coach of the Indian Men’s Hockey Team, and current Technical Lead/Director, RoundGlass Sports Hockey). His esteemed presence filled the participants with great energy and motivation.

Shailender Kumar, Regional Director of the Sports Authority of India, graced the occasion as the ‘Guest of Honor’. He highly appreciated the exemplary efforts of CGC University, Mohali, in promoting fitness and social engagement among the youth.

Speaking on the occasion, the dignitaries highlighted the importance of cycling, stating that it is not only an economical and effective means of staying physically fit but also plays a vital role in creating a pollution-free environment. They urged everyone to unite in building a healthier society.

During the event, the participating cyclists were also encouraged to become members of the ‘Namo Fit India Cycling Club’. The club aims to create a nationwide network of cycling enthusiasts to foster a culture of a healthy lifestyle in every corner of the country.

Sharing his thoughts on the occasion, Arsh Dhaliwal, Managing Director of CGC University, said, “The successful organization of World Bicycle Day 2026 reflects CGC University’s unwavering commitment to the holistic development of students, social responsibility, and national campaigns. Through such impactful initiatives, the university will continue to promote fitness, environmental sustainability, and nation-building values to contribute toward a stronger and healthier India.”

Role of Democratic Institutions Crucial in Achieving the Goal of Viksit Bharat-2047: Rajya Sabha Deputy Chairman Harivansh

Chandigarh, June 8

The Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA), India Region Zone-II Conference commenced in Chandigarh on Monday. The conference, which will continue till June 10, is being attended by Speakers and Deputy Speakers of Legislative Assemblies, Members of Parliament, MLAs, and officials of various legislatures from different states. During the conference, discussions will be held on parliamentary traditions, democratic processes, the role of public representatives, and various contemporary issues related to public welfare.

The inaugural session began with the National Song, the National Anthem, and the State Song. This was followed by the traditional lighting of the ceremonial lamp. On the occasion, a special documentary film titled “Haryana 1966–2025” was screened, showcasing the state’s development journey and achievements. Haryana Vidhan Sabha Speaker Sh. Harvinder Kalyan welcomed and felicitated the distinguished guests present on the dais.

Among those present were Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla, Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini, Rajya Sabha Deputy Chairman Harivansh, Haryana Vidhan Sabha Speaker Harvinder Kalyan, Haryana Vidhan Sabha Deputy Speaker Dr. Krishan Lal Middha, and other distinguished guests.

Addressing the inaugural session, Rajya Sabha Deputy Chairman Sh. Harivansh emphasized the important role of an aware society and public representatives in achieving the goal of Viksit Bharat by 2047. He appreciated the visionary initiative of Lok Sabha Speaker Sh. Om Birla, under which CPA India has been divided into nine zones for the first time, making parliamentary dialogue more active, regular and organized.

Harivansh said that the goal of Viksit Bharat by 2047 can be achieved only through balanced and inclusive development across all regions of the country. He noted that the northern states have a special contribution to make toward this objective. Punjab and Haryana together contribute nearly one-fourth of the country’s wheat production, making them strong pillars of national food security. Despite accounting for only 1.3 percent of India’s geographical area, Haryana contributes 3.6 percent to the national GDP.

He particularly appreciated the Haryana Government’s target of transforming the state into a one-trillion-dollar economy and the establishment of the country’s first Department of Future, backed by a fund of Rs 2,000 crore to promote innovation.

Referring to future technological and environmental challenges, the Deputy Chairman said that public representatives must rise above immediate political concerns and focus on long-term national priorities. He stated that society and legislators must work together to address emerging challenges such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), cyber security, climate change, crop residue management, water scarcity, and rapid urbanization through evidence-based policymaking and continuous engagement with experts.

He said that Haryana, Punjab, Himachal Pradesh, Delhi, and Jammu & Kashmir are playing a significant role in realizing the vision of Viksit Bharat. These regions have made notable contributions in agriculture, industry, services, infrastructure, education, healthcare, tourism, and sports.

Harivansh said that over the past decade, India has achieved unprecedented progress in digital technology, space research, startups, healthcare, and education. Digital Public Infrastructure, Aadhaar, UPI, and Direct Benefit Transfer systems have brought new dimensions to good governance, transparency, and service delivery. Today, India is establishing a strong presence among the world’s leading economies and emerging as a reliable and capable partner on the global stage.

He expressed confidence that the conference would pave the way for practical and far-reaching recommendations to further strengthen democratic governance and enhance the effectiveness of public representatives.

An Informed Society and Public Representatives Are the Foundation of Viksit Bharat: Harvinder Kalyan

Addressing the inaugural session, Haryana Vidhan Sabha Speaker Harvinder Kalyan said that an aware society and public representatives have a vital role in addressing future challenges and achieving the goal of Viksit Bharat-2047. While an informed society lays the foundation of a strong democracy, public representatives translate societal aspirations into policies and welfare-oriented decisions.

He said that India is the world’s largest democracy, and there is a need to make democratic institutions more effective, transparent, and accountable. He appreciated the efforts being made under the leadership of Lok Sabha Speaker Sh. Om Birla to connect legislatures across the country through a common parliamentary platform, promote digital transformation, and facilitate the exchange of best parliamentary practices.

Harvinder Kalyan stated that the Haryana Vidhan Sabha is continuously working towards legislative strengthening, capacity building, and constitutional awareness. With the support of the Lok Sabha Secretariat, various training programmes and workshops have been organized for legislators, officials, employees, committee chairpersons, and media representatives. Youth Parliaments and youth conferences are also being organized to connect young people with democratic processes.

He informed that the formation of subject committees related to environment, women empowerment, and youth affairs is an important step toward making the Assembly more capable of addressing future challenges.

Welcoming the Presiding Officers, Deputy Speakers, legislators, and parliamentary officials from various states, Harvinder Kalyan said that this regional platform, comprising Haryana, Punjab, Himachal Pradesh, Jammu & Kashmir, and Delhi, will significantly contribute to strengthening democratic values, exchanging parliamentary experiences, and enhancing the role of public representatives.

He expressed confidence that the various sessions and deliberations during the conference would prove beneficial for participants and generate new ideas and experiences for strengthening democratic institutions.

Democratic Dialogue Will Energize the Resolve of Viksit Bharat: Mahipal Dhanda

On the occasion, Parliamentary Affairs Minister Mahipal Dhanda said that dialogue, cooperation, and the exchange of experiences among democratic institutions constitute the greatest strength of good governance and nation-building. He expressed confidence that the discussions, suggestions, and experiences shared during the conference would further enrich parliamentary traditions and provide new direction and energy to the national resolve of Viksit Bharat-2047.