Chandigarh, August 7 – The Haryana Right to Service Commission has directed the electricity department to compensate a consumer from Fatehabad district following a detailed hearing on his complaint.

Sharing more details in this regard, spokesperson of the Commission said that the complainant alleged that despite consistently paying his electricity bills on time, he was wrongly issued a “half-margin” notice demanding Rs. 18,000. Even after depositing a partial amount of Rs. 9,000, the consumer continued receiving erroneous bills.

According to the spokesperson, from November 2023 to April 2025, the consumer was billed based on KWH units instead of the legally required KVAH units. This technical error was corrected only recently, after which a revised bill amounting to Rs. 61,688 was handed to the consumer, causing significant mental and physical distress.

The Commission held that the error was not due to any fault of the consumer but resulted from administrative negligence. It emphasized that if the electricity department had issued accurate bills in the first place, the consumer would have paid them regularly, and this situation could have been avoided.

Under Section 17(1)(h) of the Right to Service Act, 2014, the Commission has ordered compensation of Rs. 1,000 for each incorrect bill. The concerned SDO has been instructed to submit a report by August 8, 2025, specifying how many bills were issued incorrectly since November 24, 2023. Based on this report, the Managing Director of the electricity utility will ensure that the compensation is paid to the consumer.

The Commission has also clarified that the Power Discom is free to recover this amount from the responsible officials, as per the rules. These directives aim to restore public trust in the system and ensure that honest consumers are not penalized for administrative oversights.

Additionally, the Commission has directed the Discom to immediately issue a corrected bill and treat the consumer’s previous payment as a partial payment toward the total. The consumer must be given the option to pay the remaining balance in up to two installments. If the consumer fails to do so, the utility is permitted to proceed as per regulations.

Chandigarh, August 8 – The Haryana Government is stepping up its efforts to reinforce the criminal justice system, with a special emphasis on raising conviction rates in ‘Chinhit Apradh’ cases. Speaking at the 26th State-Level Committee meeting, Dr. Sumita Misra, Additional Chief Secretary, Home Department, acknowledged that while the current conviction rate stands at 61.17%, there is an urgent need to further enhance it through focused and sustained action.

Dr. Misra further urged officials to expedite the disposal of cases registered under the NDPS Act, reflecting the government’s unwavering commitment to improving judicial efficiency, delivering timely justice, and reinforcing public trust in law enforcement and the legal process.

She stated that the State Government has effectively implemented Haryana’s new Witness Protection Policy, marking a significant step toward building a more secure, transparent, and trustworthy justice system. Since its notification in February 2025, the policy has been proactively enforced, offering a vital shield for individuals who come forward to testify.

In a remarkably short time, 20 applications for witness protection have been received from eight districts. Except for one case, where no credible threat was found, protective measures were successfully implemented by district-level committees in all other instances, reinforcing the government’s commitment to witness safety. To further expand the policy’s reach and effectiveness, Dr. Misra directed the Police and Prosecution to launch an extensive public awareness campaign and compile comprehensive, district-wise reports on applications received and actions taken. These steps aim not only to enhance transparency but also to encourage more citizens to assist in legal proceedings, thereby strengthening law enforcement efforts and paving the way for higher conviction rates and a more just society.

Furthermore, the committee underscored the importance of training personnel in handling digital and forensic evidence. Since 2021, the Haryana Police Academy has conducted 39 courses on this topic, with 1,294 trainees participating. Through various training sessions, all Investigation Officers (IOs) across the state have received thorough ‘iGOT Karmayogi’ training.

It was apprised during the meeting that Faridabad and Jind districts have emerged as frontrunners in this initiative, each recording a perfect 100% conviction rate. Several other districts have also shown outstanding results. Sirsa recorded a very high conviction rate of 78.57%, while Rewari and Kurukshetra also boast strong figures at 77.27% and 75.00%, respectively, showcasing the widespread success of the ‘Chinhit Apradh’ program across the state. Dabwali achieved a phenomenal 90.91% conviction rate. Gurugram, a major metropolitan center, has also performed well, securing a conviction rate of 55.10%. The data from districts like Hisar (56.00%), Jhajjar (55.56%), and Kaithal (55.36%) further reinforces the positive trend.

The meeting was attended by Secretary, Home, Smt. Geeta Bharti, ADGP/State Crime Branch, Sanjay Singh, IG/CID Sh. Maneesh Chaudhary, DIG/State Crime Branch, Sh. Hamid Akhtar, and Director, Prosecution, Sh. Narsher Singh.

Chandigarh, August 7 – Haryana Chief Minister, Sh Nayab Singh Saini said that the state government is prioritizing the implementation of Lakhpati Didi scheme with the aim of economically empowering women. He directed officials to link as many women as possible to the scheme and make them self-reliant. In addition, the Chief Minister also instructed officials to organize special camps under the Mukhyamantri Antyodaya Parivar Utthan Yojana and to ensure easy access to bank loans for women beneficiaries to support self-employment initiatives.

The Chief Minister was chairing a review meeting held here today to assess the progress of the Sankalp Patra. Development and Panchayats Minister, Sh Krishan Lal Panwar was also present. The meeting reviewed the Sankalps of four departments- Development and Panchayats, Rural Development, Women and Child Development and Food, Civil Supplies and Consumer Affairs. Earlier, the Chief Minister had reviewed the progress of nine other departments.

The Chief Minister said that the government is fully committed to fulfilling the promises made to the people. He directed that all Sankalps must be implemented in a timely manner to ensure benefits reach the public. It was informed during the meeting that, so far, more than 1.06 lakh women in the state have been empowered under the ‘Lakhpati Didi’ scheme. In the current financial year, the process of enabling over 25,000 women to become Lakhpati Didis is currently underway. The Chief Minister instructed officials to ensure that these targets are achieved within the stipulated timeframe.

Accelerate the Har Ghar – Har Grihini scheme

While reviewing the ‘Har Ghar – Har Grihini’ scheme, Nayab Singh Saini directed that special camps should be organized in villages to ensure the inclusion of all eligible families under the scheme. He said that a system should be put in place to link bank accounts on the spot during these camps, enabling eligible Antyodaya families to receive gas cylinders at a subsidized rate of Rs 500. It was informed during the meeting that approximately 18 lakh families have already been connected to the scheme.

During the meeting, it was informed that with the objective of providing safe and secure housing for working women, the government plans to establish women’s hostels in every district. In the first phase, construction process is underway in four districts Panchkula, Faridabad, Gurugram and Sonipat. He directed that these hostels should be equipped with solar energy systems and air-conditioned facilities. He further instructed that in the next phase, priority should be given to setting up women’s hostels in industrial areas such as Manesar and Panipat.

Saksham Anganwadi centers to get expansion

While reviewing the ‘Saksham Anganwadi’ scheme, the Chief Minister directed officials to upgrade 2,000 Anganwadi Centres to Saksham Anganwadi Centres during the year 2025–26 and to ensure that all necessary facilities are provided at the earliest. In addition, regarding the construction of community centres for various Scheduled Castes, the Chief Minister instructed that these buildings should be equipped with modern amenities such as solar energy systems and air conditioning. He further directed that a standardized design be prepared to ensure uniformity and availability of similar facilities across all locations.

With the aim of promoting sports talent, the Chief Minister also directed that sporting disciplines be identified at the village level and that necessary sports equipment be provided to the players, enabling the nurturing of talent at the grassroots level.

Chief Secretary Anurag Rastogi, Additional Chief Secretary Women and Child Development Department Sudhir Rajpal, Additional Principal Secretary to Chief Minister Dr. Saket Kumar, Principal Secretary Food, Civil Supplies and Consumer Affairs Department D Suresh, Director General Information, Public Relations, Language and Culture Department K Makarand Pandurang, Director General Development and Panchayat DK Behera, Director Rural Development Rahul Narwal, Additional Director Information, Public Relations, Language and Culture Department Varsha Khangwal and other officers were also present in the meeting.

Chandigarh, August 7 – Newly promoted Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officers paid a courtesy call on Haryana Chief Minister, Sh. Nayab Singh Saini at the Haryana Civil Secretariat here today. On the occasion, the officers expressed their gratitude by presenting a bouquet to the Chief Minister and sought his guidance.

The Chief Minister congratulated all the officers on their promotion and extended his best wishes for a bright and successful future. He said that the promotion is a recognition of their commitment, dedication and devotion to duty. He expressed hope that they would continue to serve with the same honesty, integrity and efficiency, and contribute meaningfully to the development of the state.

The Chief Minister highlighted the vital role administrative officers play in ensuring good governance and public welfare. He urged the officers to uphold the spirit of Antyodaya by ensuring that the benefits of government schemes and services reach the last person in society, regardless of the position they hold.

He further said that public service should remain the core objective of the administrative service and encouraged officers to consistently strive for a sensitive, transparent and accountable administration.

Expressing confidence in their abilities, the Chief Minister said that the newly promoted officers, with their experience and knowledge, will play a key role in taking the state to new heights in terms of development.

Chandigarh August 7: In a landmark move toward civil hospital modernization, the Haryana Health Department has launched a transformative initiative to upgrade all civil hospitals across the state to match the standards of private healthcare facilities. This initiative fulfills the budget announcement made by Haryana Chief Minister, Sh. Nayab Singh Saini.

The visionary effort focuses on comprehensive infrastructure renovation, including everything from toilet repairs to whitewashing and painting, all aimed at improving patient hygiene, comfort, and overall experience.

This was informed in the review meeting of District Civil Hospitals chaired by Chief Minister Sh Nayab Singh Saini here today.

Special repair and renovation work underway in 8 civil Hospitals

It was informed that the work for the special repair and renovation have already started in 8 civil hospitals in Panchkula, Jind, Gurugram, Kaithal, Mandikhera (Nuh), Rewari, Sirsa and Kurukshetra. In addition, work will soon be started in 13 other district hospitals at Ambala, Bhiwani, Palwal, Karnal, Panipat, Sonipat, Jhajjar, Narnaul, Fatehabad, Faridabad, Rohtak, Hisar and Charkhi Dadri.

Setting a new benchmark: Haryana’s modern, patient-friendly civil hospitals

The plan includes major upgrades to essential utilities, such as electrical repairs, improved lighting systems, and reliable air conditioning to support patient care and staff efficiency. Practical improvements like fixing internal roads and updating hospital signs will make it easier to get around and create a more welcoming environment for both visitors and healthcare workers. The project also focuses on both safety and appearance. Hospital buildings will get upgraded facades, new fire safety systems, and more greenery through horticultural improvements. With these changes, Haryana is setting a new standard for modern, patient-friendly public hospitals.

All civil hospitals being upgraded with advanced facilities to reduce dependence on private care

The Chief Minister said that he had announced from the floor of the House the plan to modernize all civil hospitals across the state, equipping them with modern facilities for patients. He emphasized the State Government’s commitment to ensuring that every patient visiting a civil hospital receives all essential services. He said that all civil hospitals are being upgraded with advanced treatment facilities so that people do not have to go to private hospitals for care.

All equipment should be kept in optimal condition to guarantee uninterrupted care for patients

The Chief Minister also reviewed the services available to patients at district hospitals, including private rooms, CT scans, ultrasounds, MRI, automated labs, blood banks, and X-rays. He directed that all machines be kept in proper working order to provide uninterrupted services to patients. He also emphasized the need to ensure sufficient staff is available to operate these machines effectively.

Process to fill 450 vacant doctor posts to begin soon, boosting quality healthcare

The Chief Minister said that the present State Government has ensured the availability of a sufficient number of doctors and paramedical staff in government hospitals across the state. He directed that the process to fill 450 vacant posts of doctors be initiated at the earliest to strengthen efforts in providing quality healthcare services to the people.

Jan Aushadhi Kendras in district hospitals to operate round-the-clock

He also directed that Jan Aushadhi Kendras operating in district hospitals be made functional round-the-clock. To achieve this, these Kendras can be managed through cooperative societies. Currently, Jan Aushadhi Kendras are run by hospital staff during working hours and provide medicines to the public at prices significantly lower than market rates. It was informed that sufficient stock of listed essential medicines is available in all district hospitals. In December 2023, 272 types of medicines and other consumable items were on the contract list which has now significantly increased to 534.

Five new medical and surgical packages added to existing 114 government-reserved packages

The Chief Minister was informed that with an aim to increase participation of Public or Government Hospitals under Ayushman Bharat- Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB-PMJAY / CHIRAYU scheme and to curb over-utilization of Medical and Surgical packages under the scheme, five Medical and Surgical package, in addition to already 114 Government reserved packages have been made government reserve in Haryana under AB-PMJAY. These included Phacoemulsification with foldable hydrophobic acrylic, Abdominal Hysterectomy, Acute exacerbation of COPD, acute gastroenteritis with severe dehydration and cholecystectomy – without Exploration of CBD – Lap.

Furthermore 10 more packages have been proposed for making government reserved. These included Total Knee Replacement, Total Hip Replacement, Tympanoplasty, Hernia Repair, Appendicectomy, Adenoidectomy, Haemorroidectomy, Tonsillectomy, Hydrocele and Circumcision.

The sex ratio in the state has significantly improved as a result of focused efforts

He was informed that, due to concerted efforts, the sex ratio in the state has significantly improved. It has increased from 899 as of July last year to 907 by July 2025, showing an 8-point rise.

He was further informed that a State Task Force has been constituted, and review meetings are held every Tuesday under the chairmanship of the Additional Chief Secretary of the Health Department. Reports from MTP centers are closely analyzed, and any center performing MTPs on pregnant women with two live girl children is rigorously monitored.

Additionally, pregnant women with one or more live female children are identified and linked with an ASHA or Anganwadi worker, who tracks their pregnancy and provides necessary support for successful delivery. Abortions or MTPs of these pregnant women are being reverse-tracked to prevent misuse.

Haryana Chief Secretary Sh Anurag Rastogi, Chief Principal Secretary to Chief Minister Sh Rajesh Khullar, Additional Chief Secretary Health and Family Welfare Sh Sudhir Rajpal, Additional Principal Secretary to Chief Minister  Dr Saket Kumar, Mission Director of the National Health Mission and Secretary of the Health Department Sh Rippudaman Singh, Director, Medical Education and Research Sh Yashendra Singh, Managing Director, Haryana Medical Services Corporation Limited Dr Manoj, Director General Health Services  Dr Manish Bansal and Dr Kuldeep Singh and other senior officers were also present in the meeting.

Chandigarh:

n a stirring tribute to India’s spirit of unity and patriotism, the Municipal Corporation Chandigarh has launched a breathtaking laser show of the National Flag in motion at the Laser Fountain at Plaza, Sector 17, under the national campaign “Har Ghar Tiranga.”

City Mayor Smt. Harpreet Kaur Babla formally inaugurated the event, joined by Sh. Pardeep Kumar, IAS, Special Commissioner, and Sh. Sanjiv Chadha, President, Chandigarh Beopar Mandal (CBM), along with other CBM office bearers. The plaza came alive with vivid tricolor projections dancing to the rhythm of patriotic songs, drawing crowds of all ages.

Speaking at the event, Mayor Harpreet Kaur Babla said, “This laser show is more than a visual spectacle — it is a reminder of the dreams, sacrifices, and strength stitched into our tricolor. It is not just fabric; it carries the heartbeat of a billion citizens.” She further added, “Every day, millions of Indians pause with pride as the National Anthem plays and the Flag rises — this show celebrates that collective emotion.”

The laser show will continue every evening until August 15, creating a festive and reflective atmosphere in the city. Residents are encouraged to visit and immerse themselves in the patriotic ambiance as Chandigarh celebrates the glory of the Nation.

The Mayor said this initiative beautifully blends tradition with technology, igniting National pride in a spectacular, modern form.

handigarh, August 7 – Haryana’s Energy, Transport, and Labour Minister Sh. Anil Vij today heard the grievances of people from the Ambala Cantonment Assembly constituency at his residence in Ambala and issued necessary directions to the concerned officials.

A resident of Ambala Cantonment submitted a complaint to Minister Vij stating that he had contacted an agent based in Chandigarh to send his son to Jordan. The agent allegedly took around Rs. 3.5 lakh but neither sent the son abroad nor returned the money. On this, Minister Anil Vij directed the SP, Ambala to investigate the matter and register a case.

Similarly, a family from Ambala complained to Minister Vij that they had married their daughter to a youth from Kurukshetra. After marriage, the couple moved to Canada. However, just a month later, the son-in-law returned to India with their daughter and brought her to Delhi Airport — since then, their daughter has been missing. In this matter too, Minister Anil Vij instructed the SP, Ambala to carry out an investigation.

Sh. Anil Vij also directed that the concerned officers to take action in another greivance case in which a woman from Defence Colony had approached Anil Vij demanding sewer cleaning. He also heard several other complaints on the occasion.

Chandigarh, 7 August

Punjab Cabinet Minister Sh.Sanjeev Arora said It was brought to my attention through my WhatsApp number by four Punjabi youths from Hoshiarpur District, who have been stranded in Iraq for the past approximately six months. They were facing mistreatment and expressed a strong desire to return to India due to concerns for their safety and well-being.

In this connection, Cabinet Minister Sh. Sanjeev Arora took keen interest to help Punjabi youth and requested Union Cabinet Minister Sh. S.Jaishankar and Indian Embassy in Iraq for making arrangements to bring back four Indian citizens stranded in Iraq.

He further informed that four Indian citizens namely Gurpreet Singh, Avtar Singh, Surjeet Singh and Amarjit Singh are returning today back to India from Iraq.

Chandigarh, 7 August:

In a significant step towards strengthening the functioning of jails and ensuring the holistic development of prisoners, Punjab Jails and Transport, Minister Sh. Laljit Singh Bhullar on Thursday handed over appointment letters here to three newly recruited officials of Prisons Department.

The new appointments include 02 Warder rank and 01 Group D employee, recruited on compassionate grounds. This shall contribute towards better functioning of the department.

These recruitments are part of the ongoing initiative by the Prisons Department to address manpower requirements and improve administrative efficiency across various jails in the state.

The Minister of Jails, while interacting with the appointees, highlighted the Punjab Government’s commitment to modernizing jail infrastructure and improving services for prisoners, including educational, vocational and welfare programs.

On this ocassion, IG Prisons Roop Kumar Arora congratulated the new appointees. He emphasised the critical role that each official plays in maintaining discipline, reforming inmates and supporting the overall functioning of the department.

Chandigarh, August 7-

In a significant career milestone for educators, the Punjab School Education department has elevated 814 Master Cadre teachers to the position of Lecturers, recognising their dedication and years of experience in shaping young minds.

Sharing this information today, Punjab School Education Minister S. Harjot Singh Bains said that these promotions encompass a wide range of subjects, including 360 Punjabi, 271 Political Science, 135 English, 40 Commerce, two Sanskrit, one Fine Arts, three Home Science and two Sociology lecturers.

Extending his heartiest congratulations to all the promoted faculty, S. Harjot Singh Bains expressed confidence that their expertise and passion will continue to inspire and educate the next generation of leaders and thinkers. It will also motivate the educators to deliver better services by demonstrating exceptional pedagogical skills and a deep commitment to nurturing the intellectual and personal growth of their students.

The Punjab School Education Department remains committed to fostering an educational environment that is conducive to both student success and professional growth for its educators. These promotions are part of the department’s ongoing efforts to build a robust and dynamic educational framework as mandated by Chief Minister S. Bhagwant Singh Mann led Punjab Government.