Chandigarh, 7 October 2025:

The Punjab State Power Corporation Limited (PSPCL), in collaboration with Invest Punjab, organized a Renewable Power Providers Meet in Chandigarh with the objective of promoting large-scale participation from leading renewable energy developers in PSPCL’s upcoming solar and renewable energy tenders.

The event was graced by Sh. Sanjeev Arora,  Minister for Power, Industries & Commerce, and Investment Promotion, Government of Punjab, as the Chief Guest. The meet witnessed enthusiastic participation from around 30 prominent developers and companies representing the forefront of India’s renewable energy sector.

Senior officials from PSPCL, Invest Punjab, and the Government of Punjab attended the meet and held detailed interactions with the participants. They apprised the developers of Punjab’s progressive renewable energy policies, investment facilitation mechanisms, and PSPCL’s plans for the procurement of renewable power through transparent competitive bidding.

During the session, PSPCL presented its future bidding roadmap, outlining upcoming opportunities for private developers to invest in solar and other renewable energy projects. The initiatives are aimed at helping the State achieve its Renewable Purchase Obligation (RPO) targets, enhance energy security, and promote sustainable development through clean and green power.

The meet also featured an Interactive session where developers shared their views and provided constructive suggestions to further streamline the processes and enhance ease of doing business in Punjab’s renewable energy sector.

Amongst other issues, developers raised the main issue of imposition of Ceiling tariff in the tenders and long time taken by PSPCL/PSTCL in the survey for laying of transmission lines which delays the overall commissioning of the projects. Honble Minister ensured the Developers that no ceiling tariff shall be imposed in the tenders and provision of survey of lines by Developers itself shall be made available for smooth implementation of the projects.

Addressing the gathering, Sh. Sanjeev Arora, Power Minister, highlighted the State Government’s commitment to creating an investor-friendly environment and providing comprehensive support to developers for establishing renewable energy projects. He emphasized that Punjab is fully geared towards increasing the share of clean, green, and low-tariff renewable energy, while ensuring that consumers continue to receive reliable, affordable, and high-quality power.

Speaking on the occasion, Sh. Ajoy Kumar Sinha, IAS, Principal Secretary (Power) and Chairman-cum-Managing Director, PSPCL, reiterated PSPCL’s commitment to offering a transparent, efficient, and competitive platform for renewable power procurement. He also reaffirmed that PSPCL will work hand-in-hand with investors and developers to accelerate the State’s transition towards sustainable energy.

The event was also attended by Er. Harjeet Singh, Director (Generation), PSPCL,Er.Sanjeev Sood Director Technical PSTCL and Er. Inderjeet Singh, Chief Engineer (NRSE & Thermal Design), PSPCL, along with other senior officials.

The Government of Punjab and PSPCL reaffirmed their joint vision of building a robust renewable energy ecosystem, fostering investment, innovation, and employment while contributing to a cleaner and greener future for the State.

PSPCL currently manages approximately 6,929 MW of installed renewable capacity, including around 2,760 MW of solar. A further 2,506 MW of renewable capacity, of which 2,147 MW is solar, has already been contracted or is in the process of commissioning. PSPCLplans to add 10,000 MW of solar capacity by 2030, beginning with immediate tenders for 2,000 MW of solar and 1,000 MW of distributed renewable energy (DRE) projects in FY 2025–26.

Chandigarh/Dhuri, October 7– The first phase of comprehensive development and beautification of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann’s assembly constituency, Dhuri, has begun. Today, Chief Minister’s OSD Sukhvir Singh and Chairman of Punjab Small Industries and Export Corporation, Dalvir Singh Dhillon, initiated development projects worth ₹3,35,95,000. The event was attended by Market Committee Dhuri Chairman Rajwant Singh Ghulli, prominent city residents, and a large number of local people.

Providing details, Sukhvir Singh and Dalvir Singh Dhillon stated that Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann aims to make Dhuri the most developed city in the state. To achieve this goal, work is being carried out in a planned manner. As part of the first phase, the development and beautification of the historic Kranti Chowk have been initiated, with an estimated cost of ₹1,41,39,000. Similarly, MC Park will be transformed at a cost of ₹1,09,48,000, and a statue of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar will be installed near the vegetable market.

They further mentioned that the city’s Indoor Sports Hall will also be upgraded, for which the Punjab Government has allocated ₹27,63,000. Additionally, the existing Patwar Khana building will be repaired and upgraded at a cost of ₹57,45,000 to serve as a service center. This service center will include an office for the SDE (Water Supply and Sewerage Board), a room for the park’s watchman, and an extension of the MC office.

They emphasized that Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann is committed to ensuring that the people of his constituency, Dhuri, receive all basic amenities. The Chief Minister personally oversees every project in the constituency. The Punjab Government is a people’s government, elected by the people, and it undertakes every task keeping the public’s interests in mind. They added that the people are also extending full support to the Chief Minister and the Punjab Government, for which they are deeply grateful.

Chandigarh, October 6:

Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann on Monday said that the state government will take up the matter of commemorating martyrdom day of ninth Sikh Guru, Sri Guru Teg Bahadur ji as Human Rights day with the Government of India.

The Chief Minister, while interacting with the Sant Samaj here today, batted for observing martyrdom day of Sri Guru Teg Bahadur Sahib at national level as Human Rights Day. He categorically said that it will help in promoting the ethos of secularism, communal harmony and brotherhood in the country adding that the ninth guru was an epitome of socialism and secularism as he sacrificed his life for the sake of preserving human rights in the country. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that observation of the martyrdom day of Sri Guru Teg Bahadur Sahib as Human Rights Day will be a humble tribute to this great Sikh Guru on one hand and will further cement the ties between people on the other as the life and philosophy of Sri Guru Teg Bahadur is a lighthouse for entire humanity.

The Chief Minister also said that the state government will also explore the feasibility of constructing Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Marg on the path adopted by Guru sahib while going to Delhi, where Guru Ji was martyred. He said that the PWD and Punjab Mandi Board will chalk out the blueprint in this regard to construct the marg as a humble tribute to Guru sahib. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that even Punjab government will take up the matter to further extend this Marg upto Gurudwara Seesh Ganj sahib in Delhi with the centre government.

Dwelling on another issue, the Chief Minister also said that the path on which legendary Sikh warrior Baba Jeevan Singh (Bhai Jaita Ji) brought the severed Seesh of Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji will also be spruced up and named as Baba Jeevan Singh Marg. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that Baba Jeevan Singh combated lots of hardships and travelled through Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand and Haryana to bring Seesh at Sri Anandpur Sahib. So, he said that the respective state governments and the Government of India will also be requested for construction of Marg as a befitting tribute to the heroic Sikh warrior.

Meanwhile, the Chief Minister also announced to constitute a committee for including the life and philosophy of Guru sahib in the school curriculum. He also said that any sort of objectionable content that is not in consonance with Sikh sentiments will also be immediately removed from Virasat E Khalsa museum. Bhagwant Singh Mann also reiterated the firm commitment of the state government to enact strong anti-sacrilege law so that exemplary punishment is ensured to the perpetrators of this heinous crime.

Meanwhile, the Chief Minister apprised the Sant Samaj that the state government is organizing a series of commemorative events to observe the 350th  martyrdom Day of Sri Guru Teg Bahadur ji. He said that these functions will start from Gurudwara Seesh Ganj Sahib in Delhi on October 25 and from November 1 Kirtan Darbars will be organized across the state. Likewise, Bhagwant Singh Mann said that seminars on life, philosophy and sacrifice of Guru sahib will be organized in every educational institute of the state from November 15.

The Chief Minister said that on November 18 Kirtan Darbar will be held at Srinagar (Jammu and Kashmir) and on the next day a nagar Kirtan will start from there with Kashmiri Pandits as its part. He said that this nagar kirtan will reach Sri Anandpur Sahib on November 22 after entering Punjab through Pathankot and then passing through Hoshiarpur. Similarly Bhagwant Singh Mann said that nagar kirtan from Takht Sri Damdama Sahib will start on November 19 and that from Faridkot and Gurdaspur will start on November 20 adding that all the four nagar kirtans will culminate at Sri Anandpur Sahib on November 22.

The Chief Minister said that the state government will hold mega events in Sri Anandpur Sahib from November 23-25 to commemorate this historic event. He said that a Tent city to cater 12,000 people will be set up in Sri Anandpur Sahib and named as Chak Nanki adding that a Sarb dharam sammelan will also be organized in the holy city. Likewise, Bhagwant Singh Mann said that an exhibition and drone show depicting life and philosophy of Guru sahib will also be held at the holy city.

The Chief Minister also said that the state government will also organize a special session of Punjab Vidhan Sabha in the city of bliss where historic resolutions will be passed. Bhagwant Singh Mann also said that Sarbat Di Bhalai Iktarta will be held on November 25 along with blood donation camps and massive plantation drive by the forest department.  He also said that a massive multi storey parking to cater 500 vehicles will also be constructed at holy city adding that in order to decongest the city a bye pass will also be constructed at Sri Anandpur Sahib.

Meanwhile, the Chief Minister sought the blessings and suggestions from the Sant Samaj for commemorating 350th martyrdom day in a befitting manner across the globe. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that it was a matter of immense pride and satisfaction for him that these celebrations were being held during his tenure. He said that his government will ensure that the celebrations are held in the most befitting manner adding he urged the representatives of Sant Samaj to give their suggestions and inputs for crystallizing the concept and programs for the celebrations. He said that the major thrust of these events will be to perpetuate Guruji’s life, his ideology, and his supreme sacrifice, which till date continue to inspire millions across the globe.

Members of Sant Samaj, who participated in the meeting included, Baba Balbir Singh ji 96 Karori, Baba Kashmir Singh ji Bhuri Wale, Baba Satnam Singh ji Quilla Anandgarh, Sant Baba Avtar Singh ji Tibbi Sahib Ropar, Baba Tirath Singh ji Tap Asthan Bhai Jaita ji, Bhai Gurpreet Singh ji Randhawe Wale, Baba Sukhwinder Singh Ji Ratwara Sahib wale, representative of Sant Baba Balbir Singh Ji Seechewal, SGPC Member Paramjit Singh Raipur, Sant Baba Sewa Singh ji Rampur Khedi wale, Baba Sur Singh Ji wale, Baba Budh Singh Ji Nikke Ghuman Wale, Sant Nirmal Dass ji Jaure wale, Prof. Apinder Singh ji Mahalpur Bunga Sahib, Baba Major Singh ji on behalf of Baba Narinder Singh ji Huzur Sahib Wale, Baba Avtar Singh Dhattal Amritsar, Baba Gurjit Singh ji Kulli wale Amritsar, Baba Nand Singh ji Munda Pind Wale, Sant Gurbachan Singh Pandwa Phagwara, Baba Gurdev Singh Ji Bajware Wale, Baba Balbir Singh Ji Birdh Ashram, Baba Jagjit Singh Ji Mirzapur, Baba Sukha Singh Ji, Kar Sewa Delhi, Baba Jeet Singh Ji Nirmal Kutiya Johalan and others.

On the occasion Cabinet Ministers Harjot Singh Bains, Harbhajan Singh ETO and Tarunpreet Singh Sondh, Chief Secretary KAP Sinha, Director General of Police Gaurav Yadav, Advisor Tourism and Cultural Affairs Deepak Bali and others were also present.

Chandigarh, October 6;

Punjab Education Minister S. Harjot Singh Bains today informed that comprehensive arrangements are being made in full swing to commemorate the 350th Martyrdom Day of Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib Ji. As part of the preparations, S. Bains led team of cabinet ministers, including Harbhajan Singh ETO and Tarunpreet Singh Sond, will start a thorough inspection (from November 8) of the routes of four major Nagar Kirtans’ scheduled procession across the state.

“We will thoroughly review all arrangements, including development projects, roadworks and logistical arrangements. We’ll also engage with Deputy Commissioners, local MLAs and Sant Mahapurush to ensure a smooth and successful coordination for this historic occasion”, S. Harjot Singh Bains said.

The Education Minister, along with Advisor to the Department of Tourism and Cultural Affairs Mr. Deepak Bali, was addressing a press conference here at Punjab Bhawan on Monday evening, following the religious panel’s meeting with Punjab Chief Minister S. Bhagwant Singh Mann. He said that Baba Balbir Singh ji 96 Crori Wale, Baba Kashmir Singh ji Bhuri Wale, Baba Satnam Singh ji Qila Anandgarh Sahib Wale, Baba Avtar Singh ji Tibbi Sahib Ropar Wale, Baba Tirath Singh ji Tapp Asthan Bhai Jaita ji & Baba Jiwan Singh, Baba Sukhwinder Singh ji Ratwara Sahib Wale, MP Sant Balbir Singh Seechewal, SGPC members Bhai Gurpreet Singh Randhawe Wale, S. Paramjit Singh Rampur Wale, Sant Sewa Singh Rampur Kheri wale, Baba Gurdev Singh Shaheedi Bagh Sri Anadpur Sahib and other prominent religious figures also attended today’s meeting.

S. Bains informed that the Punjab Government will observe the 350th martyrdom day of Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib Ji at grand level, honouring his supreme sacrifice as the ‘Hind Di Chadar’. The events will showcase the Guru’s enduring legacy of selflessness, inclusivity and human rights advocacy.

He informed that the events will begin with Ardaas at Gurdwara Sis Ganj Sahib in Delhi on October 25, 2025, followed by a Kirtan Darbar at Gurdwara Rakab Ganj Sahib the same evening. Subsequently,  to all the colleges and universities (including private and aided) across Punjab will organise seminars and programs to highlight the life, teachings and martyrdom of Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji, as well as the sacrifices of devoted disciples Bhai Mati Das Ji, Bhai Sati Das Ji, Bhai Dayala Ji and Bhai Jaita Ji.

S. Harjot Singh Bains said that Light and Sound Shows will be hosted in all the 23 districts across the state from November 1 to 18, highlighting 9th Guru Sahib’s life and his devoted disciples Bhai Mati Das Ji, Bhai Sati Das Ji and Bhai Dayala Ji. Kirtan Darbars will be held at 130 ‘Charan Chhoeh’ holy sites closely associated with the Guru Sahib, with major events planned in key cities; Amritsar (birthplace of the Guru Sahib), Baba Bakala (where Guru ji meditated over 26 years), Sri Anandpur Sahib (city he founded) and Patiala, where the Guru Sahib spent considerable time. A special drive will be undertaken to beautify these cities, he added.

The Education Minister further informed that the four Nagar Kirtans to be commenced from different parts of the country and will converge at Sri Anandpur Sahib on November 22 evening. One Nagar Kirtan will start from Srinagar (Jammu & Kashmir) on November 19 from Gurdwara Chhevin Patshahi, passing through Jammu, Pathankot and Hoshiarpur, and it will be attended by CM Bhagwant Singh Mann and Sant Mahapurush, who are part of the state’s religious panel. Another Nagar Kirtan will begin from Gurdaspur, traversing Batala, Baba Bakala, Amritsar, Jalandhar, Balachour and Nurpur Bedi. The third Nagar Kirtan will start from Faridkot in Malwa, covering Ferozepur, Moga, Ludhiana and Fatehgarh Sahib, while the fourth will commence from Takht Sri Damdama Sahib, passing through Bathinda, Sangrur, Patiala and Mohali. All four processions will culminate at Sri Anandpur Sahib on the evening of November 22, he added.

S. Bains said that the primary celebrations will shift to Sri Anandpur Sahib from November 23 to 25, expecting over 1 crore Sangat from across the globe. A Tent City “Chakk Nanki” will be set up at Sri Anandpur Sahib to accommodate over 11,000 devotees daily from November 19 to 30. The events will commence on November 23 with the Akand Path Sahib at 10am, followed by Sarb Dharam Sammelan, an exhibition at Virasat-e-Khalsa, a first ever drone show depicting Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib’s life and supreme sacrifice at 5pm, and a Kirtan Darbar at 6pm. The day will culminate with “Shahaadat di Lo” that will be illuminated the holy city with the lighting of torches (Mashals). On November 24, Nagar Kirtan ‘Sis Bhet’ will start from Sri Kiratpur Sahib towards Sri Anandpur Sahib. The Punjab Vidhan Sabha will hold a special session at Bhai Jaita Ji Memorial in Sri Anandpur Sahib for the first time in the history to mark the historic occasion. On November 25, the Bhog of Akhand Path Sahib will be followed by recitals of hymns of 9th Guru Sahib by renowned Kirtanyeas. The events will also feature statewide blood donation camps, a mega plantation drive of 3.50 lakh saplings by Forest Dept, and an organ donation pledge event by the Health department.

S. Harjot Singh Bains emphasised that the sacred commemorations of Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib Ji’s martyrdom will inspire devotees to uphold the divine values of secularism, compassion and humanism. The Guru’s supreme sacrifice for protecting the right to freedom of worship embodies the eternal message of standing steadfast in faith and respecting the sacred beliefs of all.

Chandigarh, September 26

Finance Minister Advocate Harpal Singh Cheema today used the floor of the Punjab Assembly to deliver a scathing critique of the BJP-led Central Government’s handling of the devastating floods that swept across the state in July and August, specifically calling out the Prime Minister for his delayed visit, paltry financial aid, and failure to meet the families of the deceased in Pathankot. The Finance Minister also accused the Congress party of engaging in opportunistic politics, stating that instead of supporting the state during this crisis, the Punjab Congress leadership is aligning itself with the BJP-led Union government.

Speaking in favour of the ‘Rehabilitation of Punjab’ resolution, the Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema painted a grave picture of the destruction, which started in Kapurthala district in August, and the state witnessed the worst floods by the end of August. While mentioning that the State Government mobilized all available resources for relief and rescue operations, with AAP MLAs and Ministers working tirelessly to support flood victims, Cheema questioned whether the Centre had fulfilled its responsibilities within the federal framework.

Highlighting the significant delay in the Prime Minister’s visit, which occurred almost a month after the floods commenced, the Finance Minister Cheema contrasted this with the swift response in extending relief to Afghanistan, questioning the disparity in approach. “What’s even more troubling is the Prime Minister’s announcement of a paltry Rs 1600 crore relief package, of which not a single rupee has been disbursed to Punjab to date,” Cheema added, underscoring the perceived inadequacy of the central government’s response

Mentioning the profound human cost of the disaster, the Finance Minister recounted the heartbreaking incident of August 26th in which a single family was tragically struck. The flood claimed the life of 15-year-old Meenu and resulted in the disappearance of her younger siblings, 9-year-old Laddi and 6-year-old Lachhu. The Finance Minister said that their father, Bagh, suffered the compounded tragedy of losing not only his three children but also his livestock. He also acknowledged other young victims in the district, naming 7-year-old Sahil and 12-year-old Keshv Kumar.

In a scathing indictment of the Prime Minister’s tour of flood-hit areas, the Finance Minister said, “The Prime Minister failed to even console the family who lost three of its members to the floods, limiting his tour to a mere photo-op.”

The Finance Minister reminded the House that the Chief Minister of Punjab had written to the Prime Minister in late August, seeking the release of Rs 60,000 crore in outstanding funds. He highlighted a concerning disparity, noting that the Prime Minister is inaccessible to the elected Chief Minister but readily meets with appointed ones. The Finance Minister also expressed regret over the absence of BJP MLAs from the assembly, suggesting they could have provided clarity on the utilisation of the Rs 1600 crore relief package, out of which not a single penny has been transferred to the state exchequer. “Today, the BJP’s stance has been exposed nationwide,” he added.

The Finance Minister also rebuked the opposition for spreading rumours and clarified that the Rs 240 crore the state received is part of the Rs 481 crore already due to it from the Union Government under the Disaster Management budget for the financial year 2025-26. Clarifying the facts about the disaster management fund, the Finance Minister said that the funds allocated for disaster management are received annually, and If these funds remain unutilized, an interest of 8.15% is payable on them. He stated that the Disaster Management Act was enacted in 2010. Between 2017 and 2022, the Union Government allocated Rs 2,061 crore for disaster management in Punjab, of which the Congress government utilised Rs 1,678 crore. He said that during the Aam Aadmi Party’s tenure, Rs 1,582 crore was received in three years, with Rs 649 crore being spent.

The Minister said that the Congress party’s rhetoric on disaster management funds is counterproductive to Punjab’s interests. He criticized the Congress leaders, suggesting that their educational background should have equipped them with better economic understanding. Cheema also questioned the Congress party’s stance on demanding the dismissal of Sher Singh, asking if this reflected a bias against Dalits.

In a sharp critique, Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema accused the Congress party of what he termed “politics of corpses.” He specifically stated that the Leader of the Opposition, representing the Congress, appealed in the Vidhan Sabha for the public to withhold aid from Punjab and to cease contributions to the state government’s ‘Rangla Punjab Chardi Kala Fund’. Cheema asserted that this action reveals the Congress party’s willingness to sacrifice flood victims’ well-being for political advantage by obstructing assistance. He drew historical parallels, mentioning the 1984 events and the 1988 floods as previous instances of the Congress using tragedy for political ends.

The Finance Minister delivered a stern warning to the BJP-led Union Government, urging them to end their “step-motherly” treatment of Punjab. He emphasised that the immediate release of relief funds is a fundamental necessity and a rightful entitlement for millions of Punjabis, given the state’s significant contributions to national food security and its unparalleled sacrifices during the 1962, 1965, and 1971 wars, as well as recent events in May. Drawing from personal experience, the Minister recalled his late father, Mehar Singh, an Indian Army soldier who fought bravely in the 1962 and 1971 wars

CHANDIGARH, September 26:

          Continuing the war against drugs “Yudh Nashian Virudh” waged by Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann to eradicate drug menace from state consecutively for the 209th day, Punjab Police conducted raids at 403 locations on Friday leading to the arrest of 83 drug smugglers after registration of 56 first information reports (FIRs) across the state. With this, the number of total drug smugglers arrested has reached to 31,047 in 209 days.

          The raids have resulted in recovery of 854 grams heroin, 2600 kg poppy husk, 21 kg ganja, 1688 intoxicant tablets/capsules and Rs 4010 drug money from the possession of arrested drug smugglers.

          Notably, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann has asked the Commissioners of Police, Deputy Commissioners and Senior Superintendent of Police to make Punjab drug free state. The Punjab government has also constituted a 5-member Cabinet Sub Committee led by Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema to monitor the war against drugs.

          Over 120 Police teams, comprising over 1200 police personnel, under the supervision of 75 gazetted officers have conducted 403 raids across the state. Police teams have also checked as many as 444 suspicious persons during the day-long operation.

          The state government has enforced a three-pronged strategy— Enforcement, Deaddiction and Prevention (EDP)— to eradicate drugs from the state, the Punjab Police as part of ‘De-addiction’ has convinced 38 persons to undergo de-addiction and rehabilitation treatment today.

New Delhi/Chandigarh/September 26

Rajya Sabha member and environmentalist Sant Balbir Singh Seechewal has written a letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, urging the reconstruction of the historical site of Guru Nanak Dev Ji in Baghdad, Iraq. In his letter, Sant Seechewal mentioned that during his Udasis (travels), Guru Nanak Dev Ji visited the city of Baghdad in 1511 AD. The sacred site suffered damage during the Second World War as well as during the US-Iraq war.

Sant Seechewal stated that Guru Nanak’s followers are spread across the globe, and their deep devotion is tied to this site being restored to its original form. He appealed to the Prime Minister to use his influence to establish contact with Iraq’s supreme leader, Sayyid Ali Hosseini Khamenei, and ensure the reconstruction of this sacred place for the Sikh community.

It is noteworthy that on January 23, 1990, Iraq’s then-President Saddam Hussein, after a meeting with Sikh religious leaders, granted permission for the Gurdwara’s reconstruction.

Speaking to the media, Sant Seechewal said that the Sikh community in Iraq had contacted him by telephone and urged that the fallen historical site of Guru Nanak Dev Ji be rebuilt. He further highlighted that Guru Nanak Dev Ji, during his Udasis, gave the message of universal brotherhood and peace, and by following that path, peace can be brought to the entire world.

Sikh youth living in Iraq, Sukhpal Singh and Rashpal Singh, expressed concern that Guru Nanak Dev Ji’s historical site no longer exists in its original form. They added that the Sikh community in Iraq faces many challenges in practicing its religious freedom. For a long time, the Sikh community in Iraq has been appealing to Sikh religious leaders worldwide to help ensure the reconstruction of Guru Nanak Dev Ji’s sacred site.

Chandigarh, September 26: In a compassionate move reflecting solidarity with victims of the recent natural calamity in Himachal Pradesh, the Municipal Corporation Chandigarh has decided to reduce the booking charges by 50% for the Dussehra Ground in Manimajra and Circus Ground in Sector 17, where the Himalayan Khampa Janjati Woolen Market and Tibetan Market are temporarily set up each year.

This significant decision was taken during the Finance and Contract Committee (F&CC) meeting held today under the chairpersonship of Smt. Harpreet Kaur Babla, Mayor, MCC. The meeting was attended by Sh. Pardeep Kumar, IAS, Special Commissioner, committee members Sh. Gurpreet Singh, Sh. Jasmanpreet Singh, Sh. Saurabh Joshi, Smt. Suman Devi, and other senior officers of MCC.

During the meeting, the committee deliberated on the agenda concerning policy guidelines and terms and conditions for booking of commercial grounds, particularly the two key market locations. After detailed discussions, the committee unanimously approved the reduction in booking fees for this year, keeping in view the hardships faced by Tibetan and Khampa traders due to landslides and floods during the recent monsoon in Himachal Pradesh.

City Mayor Smt. Harpreet Kaur Babla stated that this is a gesture of empathy and support towards communities that have been long associated with Chandigarh and contribute to its vibrant seasonal markets.

The committee also discussed and accorded approval to the following agenda items:

* Rough cost estimate for strengthening of existing storm water drainage network by repairing the existing road gullies and machine holes and constructing additional road gullies and machine holes at Transport area in sector 26 E, chandigarh at an estimated cost of Rs. 26.28 lacs.

* Development of valley park, Dhanas at an estimated cost of Rs. 33.41 lacs.

* Hiring of leachate suction machine for 3 MRF centres at an estimated cost of Rs. 36.13 lacs.

Chandigarh, September 26:

Slamming the opposition for politicizing the issue of floods, the Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann on Friday said that the people of the state will never forgive these insensitive and opportunist politicians for their betrayal towards the state and its residents.

Winding up the discussion during a special session on the floor of Punjab Vidhan Sabha, the Chief Minister said that it is unfortunate that instead of giving a  healing touch during the floods these so-called experienced politicians of the state are spitting venom against the government. He said that these politicians are only politicizing this issue for the sake of their vested political interests which is unwarranted and undesirable. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that when the people of state were running pillar to post for relief and rehabilitation in the floods these politicians were desperately making efforts to hog media limelight.

The Chief Minister said that this special session was convened to discuss the rehabilitation of the state in the aftermath of floods but due to myopic mindset of these leaders it has been reduced to a platform of criticism. He said that Punjab is a blessed land and has a tendency to rise from ashes but such backstabbers have always tried to ruin it. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that the natural disasters even bowed before the hard work and determination of the Punjabis adding he cited the Battle of Saragarhi, Battle of Longewala and others to apprise about the bravery of the Punjabis.

The Chief Minister said that whenever the country has faced any problem or difficulty Punjab has saved the country whether it was making the country self-reliant in food production, safeguarding its borders or even in national freedom struggle. However, he said that when Punjab faces any problem the Union government becomes insensitive to our problems and leaves us to face it on our own. Bhagwant Singh Mann cited that after the Dinanagar attack Punjab was asked to pay the price for the Indian Army, which had come to neutralize the terror attack from across the border.

Giving a clarion call to all the Punjabis to unite in this hour of grave crisis, the Chief Minister said that it is the need of the hour to rebuild the state adding that if needed he will not hesitate to stage a protest outside the residence of the Prime Minister for the sake of Punjab. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that he is not afraid of the misuse of the central agencies to muzzle the voice of democracy and will continue to fight for safeguarding the interests of the state. He said that it is the need of the hour as history will remember all those who worked for the welfare of the state in this hour of crisis and the others who created obstacles.

The Chief Minister said that this is the time when all of us should join hands and sink our differences to steer Punjab and its people out of this grave crisis. He said that all the leaders should use their influence to help the people of the state to come out of this crisis adding that it is the real service of Punjab. Bhagwant Singh Mann envisioned that with the concerted efforts of the state government and support of all the philanthropists the day is not far when Punjab will re-emerge as the frontrunner state in the country.

The Chief Minister unequivocally asked the opposition to stop the blame game as the floods were a natural catastrophe rather than being a manmade disaster as alleged by them. He dared the opposition to explain that the floods in Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand and other states were also planned and executed by the Punjab government led by him. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that the opposition should refrain from doing politics in this hour of grave crisis when the state is facing its worst disaster.

The Chief Minister bemoaned that the floods have submerged over 2,300 villages, affected more than 2 million people, and destroyed crops across five lakh acres of land. Tragically, he said that 56 lives were lost, and around seven lakh people were rendered homeless adding that 3,200 government schools were damaged, 19 colleges reduced to rubble, 1,400 clinics and hospitals were ruined, 8,500 kilometers of roads were destroyed, and 2,500 bridges collapsed. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that as per initial estimates, the total damage amounts to approximately Rs 13,800 crore, though the actual figure can be even higher.

The Chief Minister said that the state government has carried out the desilting of the drains very effectively adding that during the previous regime 2066 kilometres drains were cleaned whereas his government has cleaned 3825 kilometre drains in merely three years. He said that they have been vehemently pleading for the desilting of Bhakra and Pong Dam with the Union government but unfortunately it has not taken place since last 70 years. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that due to the desilting of Ghaggar river this year despite excess water no flood was reported due to the river.

Coming down heavily on predictions made by the IMD, the Chief Minister said that all the forecasts made by this agency were irrelevant and far from the truth. Citing an example, he said that on one day rainfall was recorded 1961% more than the prediction made by this agency which raised serious question marks over their credibility. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that probably some blue eyed officer of the central government who is not well aware of this work is handing the charge of this office. 

The Chief Minister said that this disaster was huge as Pong Dam received 60.4% more water than 1988, when Punjab witnessed floods and Bhakra Dam witnessed 2.65% more water. Likewise, he said that in Ranjit Sagar Dam the water received was 65.3% more than the water received in 2023, which was beyond anyone’s imagination. Talking about the State Disaster Relief Fund, which was earlier known as calamity relief fund, Bhagwant Singh Mann said that in last 25 years out of which Akali-BJP was at power in the state for 12 years and Congress for 10 years, the state had received Rs 6190 crore as funds.

The Chief Minister said that the fact that the state was having Rs 12,000 crore as SDRF was figment of imagination of all the leaders who want to criticize the government for their vested political interests. He said that it is ironic that on pretext of this the Prime Minister during his visit to state gave only Rs 1600 crore to the state which was insufficient for the state as its 2305 villages have been devastated due to floods. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that the Rs 1600 crore of Prime Minister will give only Rs 80 lakh to every flood affected village which is a miniscule amount. 

The Chief Minister said that even during the visit of the state the Prime Minister only met the Congress wing of BJP who were handpicked by them instead of the real flood affected people. He said that it is unfortunate that the Prime Minister is least bothered about the problems faced by the countrymen and is rather busy in making tours to foreign countries. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that this is grave insult and insensitivity towards the people of the country adding that these foreign tours and foreign policy of the PM has not yielded any result.

The Chief Minister said that the state government has successfully crossed the first phase by safeguarding the people of the state from the fury of floods. He extended words of gratitude towards youngsters, Army and other social workers who saved the precious lives of people while putting themselves in danger. Bhagwant Singh Mann quipped that even in this grim situation a number of people wanted an opportunity to criticize him.

The Chief Minister said that while the leaders from the ruling party were busy serving and saving the people, some key leaders of the opposition used this opportunity for a photo session in a ‘Jaunga’. He said that the people of the state were suffering but opposition leaders shedded crocodile tears and indulged in tantrums for the sake of politics. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that even the Union Ministers came for photo sessions during the floods, the result of which was a cruel joke made by the Prime Minister in the form of Rs 1600 crores.

The Chief Minister said that the state government had been effectively working to save the state from fury of floods adding that the first flood control meeting was held on April 4. He said that contrary to this the previous Congress governments held these meetings in the months of July or even after that too adding that in 2017 it was held on June 12, on July 1 in 2018 and on July 19 in 2019.  Bhagwant Singh Mann said that the Rangla Punjab fund has been started for expediting the process of relief and rehabilitation in the state.

The Chief Minister said that every penny contributed in this fund will be judiciously utilized for welfare of the flood affected people of the state adding that a new fund has been started as there were certain limitations in Chief Minister’s Relief Fund. He said that funds through CSR cannot be contributed to it adding that even MPs can’t contribute more than 20 lakh in CM Relief Fund. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that to overcome these challenges this new fund is being raised, which has already received huge response from every strata of society.

Training his guns at Akali leader Sukhbir Singh Badal, the Chief Minister said that the President of Akali Dal is now boasting that concrete walls will be raised around the rivers whereas the fact is that people know that they failed to even construct streets during their long misrule. He said that the Akali Chief is distributing money earned through wrong means to people and in most of the villages the same fund is rotated just to mislead the people. Bhagwant Singh Mann further said that the former Deputy Chief Minister claims that massive development of the state took place during their regime but turns blind eye towards Kotakpura, Behbal Kalan and others where sacrilege of Sri Guru Granth Sahib took place and innocents were killed.

Chandigarh, September 26 – As part of the International Year of Cooperatives-2025, the Haryana State Cooperative Bank (HARCO Bank), in collaboration with CMC Hospital, Chandigarh, organized a free medical and health check-up camp.

On this occasion, the medical team was welcomed with flower bouquets by the Bank’s Managing Director & CEO Dr. Prafulla Ranjan, Deputy General Manager Smt. Urvashi Gupta, and Manager Sh. Yashveer Singh.

The camp was inaugurated by Dr. Ranjan. In his inaugural address, he stated: “Cooperation is not merely an economic model but also a means of fulfilling social responsibility. Such health camps are a meaningful effort to reach the last person in society and benefit them.” He further added that HARCO Bank will continue to organize such initiatives in the future as part of its commitment to social welfare.

The camp was held at the office premises of the Haryana State Cooperative Bank, Sector 17-C, Chandigarh, where around 150 people received free tests including blood sugar, blood pressure (BP), and body mass index (BMI). The objective of the health camp was to make citizens more aware of their health and provide timely check-up facilities.

The initiative effectively reflected the Bank’s commitment to social responsibility and the core values of cooperation.