Chandigarh, March 30:

A programme to celebrate Rajasthan and Odisha Foundation Day was held at Punjab Lok Bhavan, where the Governor of Punjab and Administrator of Chandigarh, Gulab Chand Kataria, along with his wife Smt. Anita Kataria, attended as the Chief Guest.
He extended warm greetings to the people of both states, stating that Rajasthan is known for its bravery and courage, while Odisha is admired for its devotion and spirituality. Together, they reflect India’s shared identity. He also highlighted the role of Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat in promoting cultural exchange, better understanding, and unity among different states.

The Rajasthan presentation included an address by Ms. Geetanjali Khandelwal, IPS, followed by “Desert Symphony” featuring traditional instruments. Folk and classical performances such as Angi Ger, Bhawal, Kathak, Seharia Swang, Ghoomar, and Kalbelia showcased the vibrant culture of the state.

The Odisha presentation included a speech by Dr. R. K. Rathoo, a lively Sambalpuri folk performance, and a live portrait painting of the Governor by Mr. Shani Dhanuk, which added an artistic touch. These presentations highlighted cultural exchange and the spirit of national integration.

The Governor conveyed a message of humanity, urging people to rise above ego and anger. He emphasized that the spirit of humanity is deeply rooted in India’s soil.
Referring to the teachings of Lord Mahavira, particularly in the context of Mahavir Jayanti, he highlighted the values of forgiveness, non-violence, and harmony.

Speaking about Rajasthan, the Governor noted that the state is known for its rich history, forts, folk traditions, crafts, cuisine, and warm hospitality. He referred to heritage sites such as Kalibangan and famous forts like Chittorgarh and Amer, along with well-known dances like Ghoomar and Kalbelia, which represent Rajasthan’s cultural richness.

Referring to Odisha, he said the state has a proud cultural and historical legacy. He highlighted the heritage of Kalinga, the Jagannath Temple, the Konark Sun Temple, Odissi dance, tribal traditions, literature, biodiversity, and the state’s role in India’s freedom movement and economic growth.

The Governor said that celebrating foundation days together promotes mutual respect and understanding among states. He emphasized that India’s strength lies in its diversity and that such programmes help strengthen national unity. He called upon citizens to draw inspiration from the rich heritage of both states and work together for a strong and progressive India.

Also present on the occasion were Cabinet Minister, Punjab, Shri Gurmeet Singh Khuddian; MLA Dr. Nachhatar Pal; Additional Solicitor General of India Shri Satya Pal Jain; Principal Secretary to the Governor of Punjab Shri Vivek Pratap Singh; Home Secretary Shri Mandip Singh Brar; Director General of Police, Chandigarh, Dr. Sagarpreet Hooda; Deputy Commissioner, Chandigarh, Shri Nishant Kumar Yadav; Shri Shivdular Singh, Secretary, Red Cross, Punjab; Smt. Priyadarshini Thakur, IAS (Retd.); former Mayor Smt. Harpreet Kaur Babla; and other distinguished guests.

Panchkula

According to Sanatan Dharma today is a day dedicated to worshipping Lord Vishnu. On paying obeisance  to the deity on this day, one’s desires get fulfilled and this also helps cleanse oneself of any sins.  To mark the day Purushottam Das Rungta Charitable Trust organised a ‘Community kitchen’ or ‘Ann Bhandara’ as part of its endeavour to do something for society and also in honour of Lord Vishnu. This was the Trust’s 209th Community Kitchen.  
“Putting up a community kitchen or ‘ann bhandara’ on this auspicious occasion is a good way to pay tribute to Lord Vishnu, as through a community kitchen, one feeds the needy  and this is considered a very noble deed,” said Amitabh Rungta, Founder, Purushottam Das Rungta Charitable Trust.  
Trust members actively participated in organizing the ‘community kitchen’ and made a significant contribution to its success.

Chandigarh, March 29 — Haryana Minister of Social Justice and Empowerment, Krishan Kumar Bedi, stated that the state government is committed to providing every citizen with education, healthcare, and security as a matter of priority. Haryana is achieving new milestones in the field of education.

Mr. Bedi was speaking as the chief guest at a program held on the 40th Foundation Day of Jain Public School in Rewari on Sunday.

He said that under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini, the government is working to provide all essential facilities to citizens in the country and the state. He added that the Haryana government is working to ensure that every citizen of the state has access to education, healthcare, and security. He mentioned that today, both government and private institutions in the state are being provided with better infrastructure, and students are being given necessary facilities as required. The government’s aim is that not a single child in the state should be deprived of education.

On this occasion, he also assured that the demands raised by the school management committee would be fulfilled. He encouraged the school’s talented students by distributing awards and certificates of appreciation.

Chandigarh, March 29 – Haryana Chief Minister Sh Nayab Singh Saini on Sunday said that even in times of global crisis, opposition parties in the country continue to indulge in politics, calling such an approach “unfortunate” in the current scenario of tensions and conflict in the Middle East. Referring to the global situation impacting fuel prices, he said that rising prices of petrol, diesel and gas are being witnessed worldwide. He said that it is the Prime Minister Sh Narendra Modi who take timely steps to control prices domestically by reducing excise duty, thereby providing relief to citizens.

The Chief Minister was addressing a well-attended Dhanyavaad Evam Vikas Rally in Gohana today, where he said that this is not the time for political differences, but for unity and collective effort to address the challenges arising from the global crisis. He urged people to remain cautious of misleading narratives and avoid being influenced by divisive politics.

Assuring the public, Sh. Nayab Saini stated that there is no shortage of petrol, diesel or cooking gas in Haryana. He informed that all petrol pumps and gas agencies across the state have sufficient stock available. The government is in constant touch with senior officials of gas agencies and the petroleum department to ensure uninterrupted supply, he said.

He further warned that strict action would be taken against any individual or entity involved in black marketing or hoarding of essential commodities.

Recalling the challenging times of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Chief Minister said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi stood firmly with the people and ensured the safe return of Indians stranded abroad, demonstrating strong and decisive leadership during hard times.

BJP State President, Mohan Lal Kaushik, Cooperation and Tourism Minister Dr Arvind Sharma, Development and Panchayat Minister Krishan Lal Panwar, Deputy Speaker Krishan Middha, Rajya Sabha MP Ramchandar Jangra, MLAs Nikhil Madaan, Krishna Gahlawat, former Mayor Rajeev Jain, Kiran Kalkal and other dignitaries were also present on this occasion.

Chandigarh, March 29 – Haryana Chief Minister Sh Nayab Singh Saini on Sunday highlighted the state government’s strong development record in Gohana, stating that out of 97 announcements made over the past 11.5 years, 87 have already been fulfilled, with work progressing rapidly on the remaining projects. Drawing a sharp contrast with the previous regime, he said that the present government has invested Rs 1,794 crore in the development of the Gohana Assembly constituency, significantly higher than the Rs 741 crore spent during the 10-year Congress rule. He alleged that the funds spent during the previous regime were marred by corruption and lacked proper accountability.

The Chief Minister was addressing a large gathering at the Dhanyavaad Evam Vikas Rally organized in Gohana today. On the occasion, he  also inaugurated and laid the foundation stone of 16 development projects worth Rs 113.62 crore. This included inauguration of seven projects worth Rs 20.52 crore and foundation stones for nine projects worth Rs 93.10 crore. He reiterated the government’s commitment to ensuring holistic and accelerated development of the Gohana Assembly segment.

Highlighting the broader progress of Haryana, the Chief Minister credited Prime Minister Sh Narendra Modi for providing visionary leadership that has propelled both the state and the country towards new heights of growth and global recognition. He said that the “double-engine government” has ensured that the benefits of development reach every household, empowering farmers, making youth self-reliant, and enhancing the safety and dignity of women.

He further stated that out of 217 promises made in the party’s Sankalp Patra during the last Assembly elections, 60 have already been fulfilled, while work is underway on 153 promises. He assured that all commitments will be completed within the stipulated five-year period.

Sharing details of welfare initiatives, the Chief Minister said that under the Deendayal Lado Lakshmi Yojana, launched with an allocation of Rs 5,000 crore, financial assistance of Rs2,100 per month is being provided to nearly 10 lakh women. So far, Rs 834 crore has been disbursed under the scheme, and Rs 6,500 crore has been earmarked in the current budget to expand its coverage to families with annual income up to Rs 1.8 lakh.

In the agriculture sector, he said that all crops in the state are being procured at Minimum Support Price (MSP). He added that compensation worth Rs 16,160 crore has been disbursed under the Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana over the past 11 years, compared to Rs 1,138 crore released during the previous Congress regime, of which Rs 69 crore remained pending and was later cleared by the present government after taking reign of the administration in 2014.

Under the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi Yojana, Rs 7,562 crore has been directly transferred to the accounts of 20.18 lakh farmers in 22 installments. He also highlighted that social security pensions have been increased to Rs 3,200 per month. Under Mukhyamantri Awas Yojana (Urban), plots and flats have been allotted to 18,470 families, while under the rural component, 12,031 plots have been distributed.

The Chief Minister also listed key citizen-centric initiatives such as Ayushman Bharat–Chirayu Yojana, free dialysis services for kidney patients, and transparent recruitment for government jobs without “kharchi-parchi”.

Referring to the Budget 2026–27, he shared the establishment of a third power distribution company, Haryana Agri Discom, to ensure dedicated and uninterrupted electricity supply for farmers. Additionally, 1.40 lakh hectares of saline land will be made cultivable.

Speaking on the occasion, BJP State President Mohan Lal Kaushik said that the present government has ensured merit-based employment, affordable healthcare, fair crop prices for farmers, and social security for women. He expressed confidence that the Chief Minister would continue to drive inclusive development across all sections of society.

State Government is working on the principle of Haryana Ek–Haryanvi Ek – Dr Arvind Sharma

Speaking on the occasion, Cooperation and Tourism Minister Arvind Sharma said that the people have voted the BJP to power for a third consecutive term in 2024, making it truly a government of the people. He thanked all sections of society for this victory, especially for ensuring the party’s maiden win in Gohana. He said that people today are confident that their interests are safe in the hands of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini. The state government, he added, is working on the guiding principle of “Haryana Ek–Haryanvi Ek.”

Dr. Sharma further said that more than 5,000 suggestions were taken by the Chief Minister to make the current budget development-oriented. He noted that the benefits of the Lado Lakshmi Yojana have already reached over 10 lakh eligible women in the state, and the income eligibility limit has now been enhanced from Rs 1 lakh to Rs 1.80 lakh.

Highlighting rapid progress, he said that Gohana is witnessing accelerated industrial development under the leadership of the Chief Minister and expressed the vision of developing Gohana on the lines of Gurugram and Faridabad. Referring to the demand for granting district status to Gohana, he expressed confidence that the Chief Minister will fulfill this aspiration in the time to come. He also submitted various demands of the Gohana Assembly constituency to the Chief Minister.

Development and Panchayat Minister Krishan Lal Panwar, Deputy Speaker Krishan Middha, Rajya Sabha MP Ramchandar Jangra, MLAs Nikhil Madaan, Krishna Gahlawat, former Mayor Rajeev Jain, Kiran Kalkal and other dignitaries were also present on this occasion.

Chandigarh, March 29- Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini said that under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, a significant transformation has taken place in the mindset of the youth, which is accelerating the pace of nation-building. He noted that in his Mann Ki Baat programme, the Prime Minister described India as the youngest country in the world.

Referring to the programme, the Chief Minister said that the Prime Minister also praised Yamunanagar youth Pratham Brar for his vision of a green and clean India as a pathway to prosperity. He added that the youth of Haryana are actively contributing and remain committed to the development of the nation.

Sh. Nayab Singh Saini was listening to the 132nd edition of the Prime Minister’s Mann Ki Baat programme at the BJP District Office in Kurukshetra on Sunday. Former Haryana Minister of State Subhash Sudha, District President Tejendra Singh Goldy, and District Incharge Deepak Sharma were also present on the occasion.

Groundwater levels will be raised by collecting rainwater through Amrit Sarovar

Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini said that in view of the summer season, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has appealed for water conservation and storage, spreading the message “Water is Life” by sharing inspiring stories from different parts of the country. He said that the state government has launched a campaign to promote rainwater harvesting through the development of Amrit Sarovars. By cleaning these water bodies and ensuring proper storage of rainwater, groundwater levels can be improved, securing water availability for future generations. He further added that the Prime Minister has been consistently raising awareness about water conservation by citing innovative examples of farmers who are collecting rainwater and effectively using it to enhance agricultural productivity.

Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini said that Haryana is playing a significant role under the Pradhan Mantri Surya Ghar Free Electricity Scheme. To maximize benefits for citizens, the state government has provided a separate subsidy, ensuring that a two-kilowatt solar system is available free of charge to households with an annual income below Rs 1.8 lakh. Referring to the Prime Minister’s appeal, he encouraged citizens to reduce their sugar intake by 10% to combat obesity and associated health issues. He also emphasized the importance of education, sports, tree plantation, fish farming, and yoga for holistic development.

He said that Mann Ki Baat addresses issues of social, economic, and cultural significance while also disseminating government policies and inviting feedback from citizens. He described the programme as a powerful medium of communication between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the public, highlighting inspiring stories of social innovation, positive efforts, and public participation across the country. According to him, such initiatives not only energize society but also foster harmony and collective progress.

The Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini said that in Mann Ki Baat, Prime Minister Narendra Modi addresses key social issues such as sanitation, water conservation, environment, cultural heritage, education, health, and various government schemes. The Prime Minister often shares inspiring stories of individuals and communities who have brought about positive change. An important feature of the program is the online portal MyGov, which allows citizens to submit their ideas and suggestions, with selected messages being highlighted during the broadcast. Over time, the program has had a profound impact on society and governance.

He said that Mann Ki Baat provides a unique platform for the Prime Minister to connect directly with citizens across the country. With the extensive reach of radio, the program reaches even the remotest areas, and the achievements of the people of Haryana have been highlighted several times. The Chief Minister emphasized that the main objective of the program is to establish a dialogue and communicate the Prime Minister’s vision to the common people.

He expressed pride in interacting with Prime Minister Modi and said that the program sets an example of dedication and hard work for others to follow. Sh. Saini added that Mann Ki Baat particularly inspires the youth to innovate, achieve self-reliance, and contribute to nation-building. The program not only motivates thought but also encourages citizens to move forward with a spirit of development, service, and responsibility.

Chandigarh, March 29- Haryana Chief Minister Sh Nayab Singh Saini today announced development initiatives worth crores of rupees for the Gohana Assembly constituency, reaffirming the state government’s commitment to inclusive growth and infrastructure expansion across the state.

Addressing a large gathering at the Dhanyavaad Evam Vikas Rally in Gohana, the Chief Minister announced the construction of a sports stadium in the constituency. He further declared that Bhagwan Parshuram Virasat Park along with a jogging track will be developed over Drain No. 8. A multi-storey parking facility along with commercial space will also be established on PPP mode, subject to the availability of land.

In the healthcare and education sector, he announced the setting up of a Cardiac Cath Lab on PPP mode at Bhagat Phool Singh Government Medical College, Khanpur Kalan. He also stated that classes of the Physiotherapy College at the same institution will commence from the academic session 2027–28 after completion of the building.

The Chief Minister, while addressing the public meeting organized by Cooperation and Tourism Minister Dr Arvind Sharma, made several key announcements aimed at strengthening civic and other infrastructure. These include construction of Shiv Dham on Sonipat Road subject to land availability, establishment of a new 33 KV substation at Power House Meham Road in Gohana, and upgradation of the 33 KV substation at Khanpur Kalan. He also announced the upgradation of Khanpur Kalan Sub-Tehsil to a full-fledged Tehsil and creation of Sub-Tehsils at Baroda and Farmana.

Additionally, the Chief Minister announced that village Garhi Ujalekhan will be renamed as Krishan Nagar and village Garhi Namdarkhan as Sundar Nagar upon receipt of proposals from the respective gram panchayats.

Boosting tourism and urban development, he stated that a tourism resort will be established in Gohana subject to the availability of two acres of land by the gram panchayat. A Transport Nagar will also be developed by HSVP, and plots will be allocated for social institutions in upcoming HSVP sectors.

He further announced that a request will be sent to NHAI for the construction of a service lane along the Jammu-Katra Expressway from village Rukhi to Aahulana. Renovation works of Irrigation Bhawan, Jal Shakti Bhawan, and the Rest House in Gohana will also be undertaken. Drain No. 4 passing through the Badota habitation area will be paved, and the Gohana Minor will be reconstructed. Renovation and construction of bridges on various drains across the constituency were also announced.

In the education sector, he said that a committee of the Education Department will be constituted to consider the upgradation of Government Middle School, Garhi Sarai Namdarkhan to senior secondary level. Development works worth Rs 1 crore will be carried out in all schools of the Gohana Assembly constituency.

For strengthening water infrastructure, the Chief Minister announced the construction of canal-based water works at a cost of Rs ₹8 crore in villages Mahipur-Kavredi. Drinking water supply and sewer pipelines will be laid in Khanpur Kalan at a cost of Rs 5.5 crore. Water supply pipelines will also be laid in villages Sarkathal, Badota, Kilohadat, and Dodhawa Ratangarh at a cost of Rs 12.50 crore. Two deep tubewells along with pipelines will be installed in Khedi Damgan, while pipelines will also be laid under the Mahatma Gandhi Gramin Basti Yojana in villages Hasanyarpur, Tihadkalan, and Badwasni.

He also announced the construction of a covered shed and platform in the New Grain Market, Gohana. Repair and renovation of HSAMB roads will be undertaken at a cost of Rs 5 crore. Regarding the alternate western bypass, he said that 50 percent land has already been received through consent on the e-Bhoomi portal and work will begin once the remaining land is available. He also urged the government to provide the remaining land for this project.

For easing traffic congestion, he said that requests will be sent to the Ministry of Railways for construction of a Road Under Bridge (RUB) on Gohana-Baroda Road and a Road Over Bridge (ROB) on Gohana-Meham Road.

The Chief Minister also announced Rs 6.90 crore for repair and renovation of seven PWD roads in the constituency. Additionally, 34 PWD roads covering 101 km, currently under defect liability period, will be repaired by the concerned agencies. Under the Mukhyamantri Khet Khalihan Yojana, 25 km of unpaved rural pathways will be made pucca.

He further announced Rs 5 crore for various development works in villages of the Gohana Assembly constituency. On the demand to increase the municipal limits of Gohana Municipal Council, he assured that the proposal will be considered after completion of the special intensive revision process.

On the occasion, various social and religious organizations extended a warm welcome and honoured Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini.

BJP State President, Mohan Lal Kaushik, Cooperation and Tourism Minister Dr Arvind Sharma, Development and Panchayat Minister Krishan Lal Panwar, Deputy Speaker Krishan Middha, Rajya Sabha MP Ramchandra Jangra, MLAs Nikhil Madaan, Krishna Gahlawat, former Mayor Rajeev Jain, Kiran Kalkal and other dignitaries were also present on this occasion.

CHANDIGARH/AMRITSAR, March 29:

          In a major breakthrough amidst the ongoing drive to make Punjab a safe and secure state as per directions of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, Amritsar Commissionerate Police has foiled an illegal arms smuggling attempt with recovery of two 9MM sub-machine guns and one empty magazine, said Director General of Police (DGP) Punjab Gaurav Yadav here on Sunday.

          The recovered weapons were found marked with “GHAFFAR SECURITY”.

          DGP Gaurav Yadav said that preliminary investigation has revealed that the recovered consignment was linked to notorious gangster Gurpreet Singh alias Goldy Dhillon. The weapons were being supplied through his network for carrying out anti national and criminal activities in the state, he said.

          The DGP said that further investigation is underway to identify the absconding accused and dismantle the entire network.

          Sharing operational details, Commissioner of Police (CP) Amritsar Gurpreet Singh Bhullar said that acting on specific intelligence, police teams laid a strong naka in the area of Guru Ki Wadali in Chheharta, and attempted to intercept two unidentified youth riding a motorcycle. On spotting police, the suspects panicked and attempted to flee, he said, while adding that during their escape, they dropped a kit bag.

          The CP said that a search of the recovered kit bag led to the recovery of two illegal 9MM sub-machine guns and one empty magazine.

          He said that Gangster Gurpreet Singh alias Goldy Dhillon is involved in multiple serious crimes including murder, robbery, attempt to murder, kidnapping, rioting, extortion and illegal arms supply. Police teams have booked Gurpreet alias Goldy Dhillon and his three associates and raids are being conducted to nab the absconding bike-borne persons, he added.

          In this regard, a case FIR no. 66 dated 29-03-2026 has been registered under section 25(I-A) of the Arms Act at Police Station Chheharta in Amritsar.

CHANDIGARH, March 29:

          As the decisive ‘Gangstran Te Vaar’ campaign launched under the directions of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann enters its 68th day, Punjab Police on Sunday conducted 508 raids at the at identified and mapped locations linked to associates of gangsters across the state.

          As per the information, the “Gangstran Te Vaar”— a decisive war to make Punjab a gangster-free state was launched by the Director General of Police (DGP) Punjab Gaurav Yadav on January 20, 2026. Police teams from all the districts in coordination with Anti-Gangster Task Force (AGTF) Punjab has been conducting special operations across the state.

          On Day 68, Police teams arrested 188 individuals after recovering three weapons, taking the total arrests to 17,674 since the launch of the campaign.

 Apart from this, preventive action has been taken against 95 persons, whereas, 99 persons were verified and released after questioning. Police teams have also arrested three proclaimed offenders (POs) during the operation.

          People can anonymously report information related to wanted criminals and gangsters, and also share tips on crime and criminal activity, through the Anti Gangster Helpline number 93946-93946.

Meanwhile, Police teams have continued its drive against drugs “Yudh Nashian Virudh” for 393rd day with 112 drug smugglers arrested on Sunday and recovered 463 grams heroin, 1.2 kg opium, 471 intoxicant tablets/capsules and Rs 62,400 drug money from their possession. With this, the number of total drug smugglers arrested has reached to 56,071 in just 393 days. As part of De-addiction, the Punjab Police has convinced 26 persons to undergo de-addiction and rehabilitation treatment today.

Chandigarh March 29, 2026:

The Punjab Vigilance Bureau (VB) during its ongoing drive against  corruption in the state, has apprehended Assistant Sub Inspector Lakhwinder Singh  posted as Incharge police post Kitchlu Nagar, police station PAU Ludhiana , red-handed while accepting a bribe of Rs. 15,000/-.

Disclosing this here today, an official spokesperson of the state VB said the above-mentioned accused has been arrested based on a complaint lodged by a resident of Bank Colony Noorwala road district Ludhiana.

He said that a case was registered against the complainant whose investigation officer was accused ASI Lakhwinder Singh. In this regard, complainant alleged that accused ASI demanded bribe of Rs 30,000/- in lieu of not implicating the complainant’s sister and mother in this case. Complainant had  recorded the entire conversation of demanding bribe.

Unwilling to pay any illegal gratification, the complainant approached the Vigilance Bureau range Ludhiana. After a preliminary enquiry on his complaint, the VB team laid a trap during which the accused ASI was arrested red handed while accepting  bribe money of Rs 15,000/- from the complainant in presence of two official witnesses.

In this regard, a case under prevention of corruption act has been registered against the accused at VB police station Ludhiana and further investigation into this case is under progress.