Category Archives: Chandigarh

Chandigarh

an Mahotsav: A Celebration of Gratitude to Nature, Our Responsibility, and a Promise for a Healthy Future, says CM

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Chandigarh, July 28- Haryana Chief Minister, Sh. Nayab Singh Saini said that nature is the very basis of life, and protecting it must always remain our top priority. In today’s fast-paced race for modern development, Van Mahotsav reminds us that true progress lies in living in harmony with nature rather than exploiting it. Every tree we plant is a new source of life and a symbol of hope, he said.

The Chief Minister was speaking after attending the state-level Van Mahotsav as the Chief Guest at Kalesar in Yamunanagar on Monday. On this occasion, he planted saplings, inaugurated the newly built rest house of the Forest Department, and earlier in the day, offered prayers to Lord Shiva at Kaleshwar Mahadev Math Temple, seeking prosperity and well-being for the state.

The Chief Minister described Van Mahotsav as a mark of gratitude towards nature, an acceptance of our duty, and a pledge to ensure a healthy future for the coming generations. Referring to Kalesar, he said the region holds immense ecological importance and is also an attractive destination for tourists, nature lovers, and trekkers. The government, he informed, is working to develop the entire stretch from Kalka to Kalesar into a major tourism hub.

Target to plant 2.10 crore Saplings in Haryana this year

Highlighting the government’s efforts to increase forest cover,  the Chief Minister said that Prime Minister, Sh. Narendra Modi launched the unique campaign “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam” on World Environment Day, June 5, 2024. In the first phase, Haryana had set a target of 1.6 crore saplings but surpassed it by planting 1.87 crore saplings. The second phase of the campaign started this year on June 5, with a target of 90 lakh saplings. Alongside, under other schemes, the state aims to plant another 1.2 crore saplings this year, making a total of 2.10 crore new plantations across Haryana.

Tough Steps Against Illegal Cutting and for Wildlife Protection

The Chief Minister said that special schemes have also been started to promote urban forestry so that cities can have more greenery. The government has taken strict action to curb illegal tree felling and ensure wildlife protection. Instructions have been given to the Forest Department to work more actively in this direction. Strong security arrangements have been made at Kalesar National Park, where illegal hunting has been completely banned. As a result, herds of 8 to 10 elephants were sighted in the park during April, October, and February last year. Elephants have also been rehabilitated in Bansantor. To build public sensitivity towards wildlife and forests, facilities such as jeep safaris and children’s study tours have been started in the area, said  the Chief Minister. 

Water Conservation Projects Benefiting Wildlife

 The Chief Minister  shared that the government has launched the Green Aravalli Action Plan  for South Haryana. Jointly implemented by the central and state governments, this project will cover the Aravalli ranges in four states, including Haryana. Out of the 29 districts selected, five are in Haryana. Dams have been constructed in hilly areas, especially in the Shivalik region, to conserve water. These dams not only provide drinking water for wildlife but also play an important role in improving groundwater levels, he said.

18 crore trees Planted Since 2014; “Pran Vayu Devta Pension Scheme” launched

The Chief Minister said that the state government has started the Pran Vayu Devta Pension Scheme as a mark of respect for trees older than 75 years. Under this scheme, Rs. 3,000 per year is given for the maintenance of each tree. So far, Rs. 1 crore has been transferred to the accounts of caretakers of 3,800 such trees. Since October 2014, approximately 18 crore saplings have been planted in Haryana. He added that geo-tagging and drone mapping would be conducted for existing and new plantations for five years to monitor their growth, ensuring an increase in forest cover.

CM release of Forest Awareness Booklets

The Chief Minister also released Haryana Forest News and Pran Vayu Devta booklets. He said these booklets are part of awareness efforts to promote forest conservation. Haryana Forest News will share information about departmental activities, new initiatives, achievements, and challenges, while Pran Vayu Devta will provide knowledge about the importance of trees, their benefits, and methods for their protection.

On this occasion, Environment and Forest Minister, Sh. Rao Narbir Singh said that the Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam campaign launched by the Prime Minister, Sh. Narendra Modi would have a far-reaching impact, and people should not only plant trees but also take responsibility for nurturing them.

MLA,  Sh.  Ghanshyam Dass Arora also appealed to citizens to care for planted trees for at least a year, emphasizing that trees are life-givers and essential for preventing environmental degradation.

The Chief Minister was warmly welcomed at the event by the Additional Chief Secretary, Environment, Forest  and Wildlife  Department,  Sh.  Anand Mohan Saran and local leaders with bouquets.

Principal Chief Conservator, Forests, Sh. Vineet Kumar Garg, former Cabinet Minister, Sh. Kanwar Pal,  OSD to Chief Minister, Sh. Bharat Bhushan Bharti, Deputy Commissioner, Sh. Parth Gupta, and several other officers  and local representatives were also present on this occasion. 

Chandigarh, Haryana

Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini marks Haryali Teej festival by gifting women a ‘Kothli’ of welfare schemes

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Chandigarh, July 28 – The sacred Teej festival in Haryana this year became a symbol of new opportunities for women. Upholding the tradition of brothers presenting gifts to sisters on Teej, Chief Minister, Sh. Nayab Singh Saini presented a symbolic ‘Kothli’ full of welfare measures for women.

At the state-level celebration held in Ambala district on Monday, the Chief Minister launched the ‘Lado Sakhi Yojana’ to further strengthen the ‘Beti Bachao Beti Padhao’ campaign. Under this initiative, a ‘Lado Sakhi’, an Anganwadi worker, ASHA worker, or ANM nurse will take care of pregnant women during childbirth. For every girl child born, the designated ‘Lado Sakhi’ will receive an incentive of Rs. 1,000.

The Chief Minister also launched the ‘Badhte Kadam: Digital Bal Programme’ in Anganwadis, which will help Anganwadi workers provide better care and early education to young children.

Highlighting that new initiatives have already successfully helped women-led startups to account for 50 percent in Haryana, the Chief Minister announced more such steps to encourage women entrepreneurs. Under the state startup policy, half of all beneficiaries will be women-led ventures. To encourage entrepreneurial skills from a young age, 10,000 ‘Do-It-Yourself’ kits will be distributed to girl students.

A separate scheme will be formulated to support women-led startups engaged in handmade and traditional items, such as ethnic fabrics, eco-friendly rural crafts, Ayurveda-based health and wellness products, and indigenous food products, with financial aid between Rs. 50,000 and Rs. 1 lakh.

He further informed that in partnership with NITI Aayog, Haryana will establish a ‘State Chapter’ of the Women Entrepreneurship Platform, giving women entrepreneurs access to over 700 mentors, sector-specific training, funding opportunities, market access, and incubation support.

The Chief Minister announced that under new industrial and sectoral policies, businesses employing Haryana’s women will receive additional subsidies, and public procurement norms will be relaxed to boost women entrepreneurs’ participation.

Additionally, one ration depot in every development block will be allotted to women from self-help groups, providing them with livelihood opportunities while also increasing their participation in local governance.

Chief Minister virtually inaugurates 131 Mahila Sanskriti Kendras across Haryana

At the event, the Chief Minister virtually inaugurated 131 Mahila Sanskriti Kendras across Haryana. These centres will serve as platforms for women to engage in cultural activities such as singing, dancing, and devotional performances.

He also handed over cheques worth Rs. 14.26 crore to self-help groups (SHGs) as part of revolving and community investment funds, and keys to newly established ‘Rural Harts’ in six districts were given to SHGs. Women artisans excelling in handicrafts were awarded Rs. 3 lakh each for the State Handicraft Award and the Outstanding Woman Artisan Award, along with 12 consolation prizes of Rs. 51,000 each.

Awards were also presented to high-performing SHGs at the district level, with cash prizes of Rs. 1 lakh, Rs. 50,000, and Rs. 25,000 for the first, second, and third positions, respectively.

Teej celebrates our rich heritage and strong social bonds

Extending wishes on the occasion of Teej, he said the festival reflects India’s cultural roots, traditions, and family values. It symbolises respect for women, love within families, and harmony with nature. He emphasised the importance of nurturing relationships, preserving culture, and protecting the environment for a happy life.

He added that the state government is committed to celebrating traditional festivals with greater enthusiasm so that the younger generation remains connected to its heritage.

Empowering women through education, health, and self-reliance

Highlighting women’s empowerment as a key focus, he said Haryana has worked to improve the status of women through schemes like Beti Bachao-Beti Padhao, which has helped raise the state’s gender ratio from 871 to 906 since 2014. The Aapki Beti-Hamari Beti Yojana has benefitted over 5.36 lakh girls by providing Rs. 21,000 to eligible families on the birth of daughters, said the Chief Minister. 

He said that over 66,000 SHGs are active in the state, with stamp duty waivers on loans up to Rs. 5 lakh. About 33 percent of ration depots are now run by women, and under the Har Ghar-Har Grihini Yojana, 18 lakh families receive LPG cylinders at Rs. 500 per month. The government aims to make five lakh women ‘Lakhpati Didis,’ with over two lakh already achieving this milestone.

The Chief Minister said women also have 50 percent reservation in Panchayati Raj Institutions. Several schemes for maternal and child health, as well as 33 all-women police stations and a dedicated helpline (1091), have been established to ensure their safety. In the past decade, 80 new government colleges have opened, 30 of which are exclusively for girls.

Calling Teej a festival of greenery, he urged citizens to plant trees under the Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam Abhiyan and contribute to environmental conservation.

Anil Vij assures On-Time Execution of Transport and Energy Schemes

Earlier speaking on the occasion, Transport and Energy Minister, Sh. Anil Vij appreciated the state government’s focus on development and lauded the leadership of Chief Minister, Sh. Nayab Saini. He expressed gratitude to the Chief Minister for inaugurating and laying the foundation stones of several projects in Ambala.

Paying tribute to former Chief Minister late Chaudhary Bansi Lal, Sh. Anil Vij recalled working with him between 1996 and 2000. He shared that with Chaudhary Bansi Lal’s support, a canal water-based drinking water scheme was implemented in Ambala Cantonment, which brought much-needed relief to residents suffering from water shortages for years. He also remembered that the establishment of the Saha Industrial Growth Centre became possible due to Chaudhary Bansi Lal’s backing.

Sh. Anil Vij highlighted that during his tenure as Health Minister, he had taken several significant initiatives for Ambala.

Talking about the importance of the monsoon month of Sawan, he said it represents the vibrancy of nature. When the surroundings turn green, people’s hearts are filled with joy, and festivals like Teej are celebrated in this cheerful spirit, reflecting social and cultural unity, said Sh. Anil Vij.

He urged the Chief Minister to ensure that all development projects are completed within set timelines and assured that he would personally see to it that the schemes of the Transport and Energy Departments are executed on time.

Hariyali Teej: A Day to Pledge Respect and Safety for Women – Shruti Choudhry

During the celebration, the Women and Child Development Minister, Smt. Shruti Choudhry said that the festival of Teej reminds us to reaffirm our commitment to women’s empowerment. She emphasized that every daughter deserves respect, every mother should feel safe, and every child must have equal opportunities to grow and succeed.

She shared with pride that the Prime Minister, Sh. Narendra Modi had launched the Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao campaign from Haryana. Back in 2015, the state’s gender ratio was alarming, but consistent efforts and welfare initiatives have led to remarkable improvement over the years.

The Minister said that various schemes such as the  ‘Mukhyamantri Doodh Uphaar Yojana’, Protein Bar Scheme, transforming Anganwadi centres into smart classrooms, and nutrition programmes are strengthening the health and education of women and children.

Appealing to the public, she urged everyone to work together to ensure that education becomes every child’s identity and dignity becomes the pride of every mother and daughter, making Haryana a true example of women’s empowerment through technology and innovation.

During the ceremony, former Minister, Sh. Aseem Goel welcomed Chief Minister, Sh. Nayab Singh Saini and said that the Chief Minister works considering every citizen of Haryana as his family. He said that the Teej festival is a symbol of greenery, prosperity, and cultural unity.

During the programme, Director General, Information, Public Relations, Language and Culture Department, Sh. K. M. Pandurang presented a memento to Chief Minister Sh Nayab Singh Saini. Besides this, the Chief Minister gifted the ‘Kothli’ to the women.

Minister of State, Sh. Rajesh Nagar, BJP State President Sh Mohan Lal Kaushik, a large number of women and other dignitaries were present.

Chandigarh

Haryana Governor Prof Ashim Kumar Ghosh calls on Hon’ble President Smt Droupadi Murmu

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Chandigarh, July 28, 2025: Haryana Governor Prof Ashim Kumar Ghosh on Monday paid a courtesy call on Hon’ble President of India, Smt Droupadi Murmu, at Rashtrapati Bhavan in New Delhi. The meeting took place following Prof Ghosh’s swearing-in as the 19th Governor of Haryana on July 21, 2025. He was accompanied by his wife Smt Mitra Ghosh.

“I had a fruitful discussion with Hon’ble President Smt Droupadi Murmu ji. She shared several valuable suggestions on how to address the current situation in Haryana. Much work needs to be done with sincerity and dedication, particularly in the fields of social welfare, culture, and education,” said Governor Prof Ghosh.

He further added, “I have been greatly enriched by the guidance of the Hon’ble President for the responsibilities that lie ahead.” Hon’ble President Smt Droupadi Murmu also presented a copy of the Constitution to Hon’ble Governor.

Chandigarh

Chief Minister presents a major Development Package for Ambala

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Chandigarh, July 28 – Haryana Chief Minister Sh. Nayab Singh Saini on Monday announced a series of development initiatives to boost infrastructure and basic amenities in Ambala. Addressing the state-level Teej festival celebration held in Ambala city, the Chief Minister announced  Rs. 145 crore for the expansion of the city’s water distribution network. He also announced  Rs. 40 crore for establishing a 9 MLD capacity water treatment plant in Sector 24 and Rs. 60 crore for repairing damaged patches along both sides of the SYL canal.

Before the ceremony, Sh. Nayab Singh Saini inaugurated and laid the foundation stones for 9 projects worth Rs. 73 crore, gifting Ambala residents a set of new development works. These included the inauguration of 4 projects costing Rs. 26.49 crore  and foundation stones for 5 projects worth Rs. 46.34 crore.

The Chief Minister also announced that a synthetic track will be constructed at the sports stadium in Sector 10. Further, he announced  Rs. 4 crore for building an additional block at Naggal PHC and stated that the motor market of the city will be relocated once suitable land is available.

The list of other major announcements include, a  new fire station will be built in Sector 23, Ambala City, Rs. 20 crore will be provided for residential facilities for doctors in the city, a centralized office-cum-residential facility for employees will be constructed in the Dhulkot complex, subject to land availability.

Besides this, for strengthening drainage systems, Sh. Nayab Singh Saini announced Rs. 2 crore for the strengthening of Nanyola Minor and Rs. 10 crore for concreting the Manmohan Nagar section of the Ambala drain to prevent flooding during the rainy season.

He further announced  Rs. 35 crore for concreting various sections of the Model Town drain,  covering  Mathura Nagri, Police Line, Prem Nagar, Vikas Vihar, Patel Nagar, Laxmi Nagar, Jandli, and Sectors 9 and 10 as well as Jalbera.

The announcements also included Rs. 1.60 crore for a 2 MLD sewage treatment plant in Kamla village, Rs. 1.50 crore for constructing a stormwater disposal system at the Deputy Commissioner’s office campus to resolve waterlogging issues and Rs.12 crore for concreting the Old Delhi Road drain to improve rainwater discharge.

Highlighting road infrastructure improvements, the Chief Minister said that 56 PWD roads covering 91.45 km in Ambala constituency, which are currently within the DLP period, will be repaired.

The Chief Minister announced that special repairs of 53 roads spanning 81.86 km will be carried out at a cost of  Rs. 45.25 crore, Rs. 11.01 crore will be spent on special repairs of 6 roads covering 25.61 km, Rs. 42 crore allocated for widening the Matedi Shekhan–Nanyola road and Rs. 8 crore for strengthening the Ambala stretch of Old NH-65.

To ensure rural development, the Chief Minister announced  Rs. 5 crore separately for various works in the villages of Ambala constituency.

The Chief Minister said that the Government, in its budget, had announced for establishment of a modern, well-equipped district hospital in every district, ensuring advanced health facilities for all citizens.

Expressing gratitude for public support, Sh. Nayab Singh Saini said that with the blessings of the people, the BJP government has been formed in Haryana for the third time. Under the leadership of Prime Minister, Sh. Narendra Modi, the state government will now work at triple the pace to take Haryana forward.

The event was also attended by Transport and Energy Minister, Sh. Anil Vij, Women and Child Development Minister,  Smt. Shruti Choudhry, Minister of State Sh. Rajesh Nagar, BJP State President, Sh. Mohan Lal Kaushik, former minister Sh. Aseem Goel, and several other dignitaries.

Chandigarh

IMT to be established in Ambala, New Employment Opportunities to be created: Chief Minister

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Chandigarh, July 28 — Haryana Chief Minister, Sh. Nayab Singh Saini said that the state government is working to promote industries and attract investments by setting up 10 Integrated Multi-Modal Townships (IMTs) across Haryana. One of these IMTs will be established in Ambala, which will create new avenues of employment for local youth.

The Chief Minister was speaking at the Utkrist Shiksha Puraskar 2025 programme organized by Pooja Foundation in Ambala on Monday. During the programme, he honoured students who had achieved remarkable results in Class 10 and 12 examinations.

Highlighting the government’s futuristic vision, he said that plans are being made to develop Gurugram and Panchkula as Artificial Intelligence hubs, where thousands of youth will be trained in AI-based skills.

Giving students a mantra for success, the Chief Minister said that whatever work you take up, always give your best. No power in the world can stop you from succeeding if you work with honesty and dedication.

He appealed to students and their parents to ensure that youth do not take the wrong path in life and stay away from the menace of drugs, as addiction harms not just individuals but also their families, society, and the nation. He stressed that parents should regularly communicate with their children and guide them towards a positive and meaningful life.

He further said that the state government recently organized a massive cyclothon to spread awareness among the youth about eradicating drug abuse. Over 7.5 lakh young people participated in this initiative.

Speaking about the government’s achievements, he said that in the past 11 years, the state government has improved the system, as a result of which deserving youth are getting government jobs on a merit basis only. He said that the government has ensured that a college is available within every 20 km so that girls do not have to travel far to pursue higher education.

Former minister Sh. Aseem Goel, Pooja Foundation Chairman Sh Vinod Kumar, several dignitaries, and a large number of students attended the event.

Chandigarh, Haryana

Teej Festival celebrated with traditional gaiety in district-level programs in Haryana

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Chandigarh July 28: Teej festival was celebrated with traditional gaiety today across various districts of Haryana. The festival stands as a symbol of the state’s rich folk culture, women’s dignity, and traditional values. To mark the occasion, district-level programs were organized in the state, with Ministers participating as chief guests and joining the celebrations.

  Teej festival celebrates cultural expression and social empowerment of women: Deputy Speaker Dr. Krishan Lal Midha

Deputy Speaker of the Haryana Vidhan Sabha, Dr. Krishan Lal Midha while addressing women  during the Teej festival celebrations held at the auditorium of Chaudhary Ranbir Singh University in Jind said that the festival is not only a symbol of our connection with nature but also a celebration of women’s cultural expression and social empowerment. “Today is a special day for us as we witness the inauguration of Mahila Sanskritik Kendras. This initiative will provide women with a platform to showcase their skills, art, and culture, and marks an important step towards making them self-reliant,” he added. Earlier, Dr. Krishan Lal Midha encouraged women from self-help groups by distributing Kothlis on the occasion. He said that the Hariyali Teej festival symbolizes the faith, beauty, and unity of women. Swings, folk songs, mehndi, and traditional costumes bring vibrancy to the festival, reminding us of our rich cultural roots.

Mahila Sanskritik Kendras to be established in every village: Cabinet Minister Sh Krishan Lal Panwar

Haryana Development and Panchayats Minister Sh Krishna Lal Panwar, who was the chief guest at the district-level Teej celebrations organized by the Haryana State Rural Livelihood Mission (HSRLM) at the auditorium of Chaudhary Devi Lal University in Sirsa, said that the government will open Mahila Sanskritik Kendra in every village. He said that in Sanskritik Kendras to be established in rural areas, women will have opportunities to engage in activities such as dance and bhajan music, promoting art and culture. Today, eight Mahila Sanskritik Kendra were inaugurated in Sirsa, along with the opening of 86 e-libraries. Congratulating everyone on the Teej festival, the Minister highlighted that both the state and central governments are continuously working to uphold the respect and empowerment of women through new schemes. He further said that in the recently held elections for 25 municipal corporations, municipal councils, and municipal committees, 65 percent of the elected representatives were women. “Today, women’s power is leading everywhere from flying airplanes to serving in the armed forces,” he said.

Teej festival symbolizes women’s good fortune, prosperity, and cultural identity: Mahipal Dhanda

Haryana Education Minister Sh Mahipal Dhanda attended the district-level Teej Mahotsav program in Fatehabad as the chief guest. He stated that Teej is a festival that symbolizes women’s good fortune, prosperity, and cultural identity. The festival not only revives our traditions but also strengthens women’s empowerment. Minister Sh Mahipal Dhanda emphasized that women today are showcasing their talents across all fields, balancing progress with tradition. He added that the Haryana government is actively promoting cultural activities in schools to help the younger generation stay connected to their roots. Folk dance, songs, rangoli, and handicrafts nurture creativity and build confidence in children. He described today’s program as an inspirational initiative in this direction.

Teej is not just a festival, but a symbol of respect for our cultural heritage and women’s power: Dr. Arvind Sharma

Heritage and Tourism Minister Dr. Arvind Sharma attended the district-level Teej Mahotsav program in Sonipat.  On this occasion, he inaugurated Sanskritik Kendra in 10 villages. While addressing the program, he said that Teej is not merely a festival but a symbol of respect for our cultural heritage and women’s empowerment. This festival is deeply connected with love and tradition. When women swing in traditional attire, singing folk songs amidst the greenery and drizzle of Sawan, it beautifully reflects the soul of our land. He encouraged women to join the Sanskritik Kendra established by the Haryana government in villages to create new songs and bhajans and promote cultural activities. Highlighting the festival’s significance, Cabinet Minister Dr. Arvind Sharma said Teej is not just a tradition but also an opportunity to strengthen social harmony, family bonds, and cultural identity. He urged the youth to stay connected with their folk culture alongside modernity and to recognize their roots through festivals like Teej.

Government committed to the upliftment of women: Sh Krishan Kumar Bedi

Haryana Social Justice and Empowerment Minister Sh Krishan Kumar Bedi while addressing  the district-level Teej Mahotsav in Bhiwani said that  Teej is a sacred and joyous festival for women, marking a month filled with excitement and enthusiasm. He emphasized that festivals like Teej keep our culture alive and bring people together through auspicious songs and rituals. He highlighted the tradition where brothers visit their sisters with a Kothli during Teej, symbolizing the sacred bond and love between siblings. He said sisters eagerly await their brothers’ arrival on this special day. Affirming the government’s commitment, he said that the government always stands with women to protect their rights and promote their welfare.

Chandigarh

Punjab to Recruit 60 Psychologist Counselors for State Jails: Harpal Singh Cheema

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Chandigarh, July 28

Punjab Finance Minister Advocate Harpal Singh Cheema today announced a significant step towards bolstering mental healthcare within the state’s correctional facilities. He said that approval has been granted to recruit 60 Psychologist Counselors for jails across Punjab.

In a statement issued here, Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema emphasized the AAP led Punjab Government’s commitment to the well-being of inmates. “This initiative underscores our dedication to providing comprehensive support to individuals within the prison system, including crucial mental health services,” he added.

Revealing further, the Finance Minister Cheema said that the Jails Department will oversee the recruitment of these 60 Psychologist Counselors through a completely transparent outsourcing process. He said that this move is expected to enhance the psychological support available to inmates, addressing a vital aspect of their rehabilitation and overall well-being.

Chandigarh

Jasvir Singh Garhi meets New Zealand Member of Parliament Philip Stoner Tafford

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Chandigarh/Auckland, July 28:

Punjab State Scheduled Castes Commission Chairman Jasvir Singh Garhi met with senior New Zealand politician and Member of Parliament Philip Stoner Tafford. Mr. Tafford is a former Union Minister of New Zealand.

During this meeting, Mr. Garhi discussed issues related to Punjabis in New Zealand with Mr. Tafford, in addition to this, the incidents of burning of Sikh and some other religious flags in New Zealand in the past were also discussed and he appealed to him to ask the New Zealand government to make people aware of other religions. Along with this, he requested Mr. Tafford to  motivate New Zealand companies to invest in Punjab.

S.  Gadri invited Mr. Philip Stoner Tafford to visit Sri Amritsar Sahib, Sri Anandpur Sahib and other places in Punjab, which was accepted by Mr. Philp Tafford.

Chandigarh

Shaheed-e-Azam Sardar Bhagat Singh Heritage Complex will go a long way in perpetuating legacy of iconic martyr: CM

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Khatkar Kalan (SBS Nagar), July 28 :

Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann on Monday laid the foundation stone of the Shaheed-e-Azam Sardar Bhagat Singh Heritage Complex, which will be constructed at a cost of ₹51.70 crore as a humble tribute to Shaheed-e-Azam.

Paying heartfelt floral tributes to the legendary martyr, the Chief Minister said that Shaheed-e-Azam sacrificed his life to liberate India from the chains of foreign imperialism. Bhagwant Singh Mann stated that the project will be completed within nine months and will serve as a source of inspiration for future generations to serve the country selflessly. He added that this significant initiative aims to preserve and promote the unparalleled legacy of this great son of the soil.

The Chief Minister emphasized that the complex will not merely be a structural monument, but an unforgettable experience as visitors will witness glimpses of Shaheed Bhagat Singh’s supreme sacrifice for the motherland, his intellectual depth, and his courageous spirit. He said that the monument will feature a Grand Thematic Gate, a 350-meter-long Heritage Street connecting the Shaheed Bhagat Singh Museum to his ancestral house narrating the life journey of Shaheed-e-Azam and India’s freedom struggle through sculptures, 2D/3D wall art, and mannequins, capturing the essence of colonial-era India. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that it will also have a 30-meter-high Indian National Flag and a 700-seat fully air-conditioned auditorium will also be part of the complex.

The Chief Minister announced that a model of Shaheed Bhagat Singh’s ancestral home in Lyallpur (now in Pakistan) will be constructed, along with a recreation of his ancestral village on the heritage street. Additionally, he said that the ancestral home at Khatkar Kalan will be restored and preserved and digital recreation of Shaheed Bhagat Singh’s courtroom trial will be developed to take visitors back in time and showcase his revolutionary fervor. Bhagwant Singh Mann further added that the existing library will be modernized and digitized to offer an immersive experience adding that other facilities at the complex will include a Tourist Facilitation Centre, cottages, horticultural landscaping, a musical fountain, and ample parking space.

The Chief Minister was accompanied Cabinet Minister Tarunpreet Singh Sondh and others.

Chandigarh

Punjab Government’s Project JEEVANJYOT-2 Becomes a Beacon of Hope for Child Beggars: Dr. Baljit Kaur

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Chandigarh, July 28:

Punjab’s Minister for Social Security, Women and Child Development, Dr. Baljit Kaur, stated that the Punjab Government’s flagship initiative Project JEEVANJYOT-2 is emerging as a beacon of hope for children forced into begging.

She informed that during 19 special raids conducted across the state today, a total of 6 children were rescued. With this, the cumulative number of children rescued under the campaign has reached 203 in just 12 days since the project’s launch.

Dr. Baljit Kaur emphasized that the impact of the project is clearly visible at the grassroots level, as the number of children being found in such circumstances is steadily decreasing, thanks to consistent field surveillance and action. “This indicates growing public awareness and weakening of the networks forcing children into begging,” she said.

Sharing district-wise details, the Minister informed that 1 child was rescued from Barnala, 3 from Malerkotla, and 2 from Sri Muktsar Sahib. Out of these, 4 children were handed over to their parents after proper verification of documents and counselling, while 2 children from Sri Muktsar Sahib were sent to shelter homes.

She added that a total of 105 children have been admitted to government-run child care institutions so far, where arrangements for education, food, and accommodation have been made to ensure their well-being and development.

Dr. Baljit Kaur further stated that DNA testing will be conducted wherever there is any suspicion regarding the identity or relationship between the child and accompanying individuals. She warned that strict legal action will be taken against anyone found forcing children into begging, underlining that such individuals will not be spared under any circumstances.

She reiterated that under the leadership of Chief Minister S. Bhagwant Mann, the Punjab Government is committed to eradicating child begging from its roots. Rescued children are being integrated into various social welfare schemes and provided with quality education, shelter, and nutrition to help them become self-reliant and empowered citizens.

Dr. Baljit Kaur appealed to the people of Punjab not to give alms to children and to immediately report any instance of child begging to the Child Helpline number 1098. She said that no social evil can be eradicated without public support, and expressed confidence that this mission will become even more impactful in the coming days.