Chandigarh, August 24

In a determined push to reinforce fiscal discipline and maximize revenue realization, Punjab Finance, Planning, Excise and Taxation Minister Advocate Harpal Singh Cheema announced today that the Punjab Excise Commissionerate has intensified efforts to recover long-pending excise arrears inherited from previous SAD-BJP and Congress governments. The department has already recovered Rs. 1.85 crores in the current financial year 2025–26, and permission has been granted to sell 27 properties with a combined base value of Rs. 20.31 crores (at Collector Rate), marking a significant step toward financial accountability.

Revealing this in a press communique issued here, Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema said that the auction process for these properties is now underway. “As part of this recovery drive, 14 properties located in Sri Muktsar Sahib, Fazilka, and Mansa districts will be auctioned during the first two weeks of September”, he added.

Providing further details, Cheema stated that six properties in Mansa and Bathinda districts—comprising agricultural and commercial/residential land with a base price of Rs. 5.4 crores—will be auctioned on September 4. On September 8, four agricultural properties in Sri Muktsar Sahib with a total base price of Rs. 4.89 crores will go under the hammer. Another set of four agricultural properties in Sri Muktsar Sahib and Fazilka, valued at Rs. 1.99 crores, will be auctioned on September 11.

The Finance Minister also announced that eight additional properties will be auctioned later in September, ensuring sustained momentum in the recovery campaign. He emphasized that the government anticipates substantial revenue recovery from 67 pending arrears cases within this financial year alone. This initiative, he said, is part of a broader strategy to streamline legacy dues and unlock stalled revenue.

Highlighting the contrast with previous SAD-BJP and Congress regimes, Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema asserted that under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, license fees are being recovered on time, leaving no room for arrears. He described the recovery of long-pending dues as a vital move toward strengthening Punjab’s fiscal health and underscored the government’s commitment to compliance and accountability. Reaffirming the Aam Aadmi Party-led Punjab Government’s dedication to transparent and efficient governance, Cheema said the ongoing efforts reflect a clear resolve to uphold financial integrity and public trust.

Chandigarh, August 24:

Under the leadership of Chief Minister S. Bhagwant Singh Mann, the Punjab Government is working tirelessly for the overall development of children across Punjab. At the same time, special priority is being given to the care and upbringing of children from economically weaker families and orphans. This was disclosed by Social Security, Women and Child Development Minister Dr. Baljit Kaur.

Dr. Baljit Kaur informed that under the Sponsorship Scheme, the Punjab Government provides financial assistance of ₹4,000 per child per month to economically weaker, destitute and orphan children. This assistance is meant for wards belonging to families unable to provide proper care due to financial constraints, as well as for orphaned children living with their relatives.

She further said that this assistance is provided until the child attains the age of 18 years, and so far, a total of 5,475 beneficiaries have already received support under this scheme.

Highlighting the objective of the initiative, Dr. Baljit Kaur stated that the scheme is not merely about financial aid but also about providing children with a brighter future. With this support, children are able to continue their education, pursue their dreams and integrate into the mainstream of society.

Reiterating the Punjab Government’s commitment, Cabinet Minister Dr. Baljit Kaur said that the ultimate aim of the government is to ensure that every child becomes educated, self-reliant and a responsible citizen contributing to the progress of society and the state. Special efforts are being made for the holistic development of those children who have been left out of the mainstream of society.

Chandigarh, August 24:

On the auspicious occasion of First Parkash Purb of Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji, Punjab Education Minister S. Harjot Singh Bains, who represents the Sri Anandpur Sahib constituency, has announced a major project to develop a majestic Heritage Street, stretching from the main Gurudwara Sahib to Takht Sri Kesgarh Sahib, the holy place where 10th Sikh Guru Shri Guru Gobind Singh Ji established the Khalsa Panth.

Extending warm greetings to the Sikh Sangat living across the globe on the auspicious occasion of 1st Parkash Purb of Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji, S. Harjot Singh Bains said that the Heritage Street project aims to create a serene spiritual oasis by transforming the sacred route with exquisite marble work, meticulous landscaping and enchanting lighting to enhance the overall spiritual experience.

Further elaborating on the ambitious project, the Education Minister informed that Rs 25 crore will be spent under the first phase of the project and the route will be metamorphose into tranquil pedestrian-friendly zone, free from vehicular traffic. This will enable devotees to traverse the sacred path with serenity and reverence. Moreover, the stairs leading to Takht Sahib will be tastefully renovated with exquisite marble and intricate design, thereby augmenting the site’s grandeur and spiritual significance.

With the tender process now complete, S. Harjot Singh Bains shared that the project will be launched soon, with Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann slated to inaugurate it. This development will not only enrich the spiritual experience for devotees but also stimulate local tourism, besides, further enhancing  facilities for pilgrims at the sacred land of Sri Anandpur Sahib.

CHANDIGARH/SBS NAGAR, August 24:

          In a major breakthrough against organised crime amidst the ongoing drive to make Punjab a safe and secure state as per directions of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, Counter Intelligence Jalandhar in a joint operation with SBS Nagar apprehended two shooters of Lucky Patial-Davinder Bambiha gang from Mumbai for their involvement in murder that took place in Pojewal in SBS Nagar last month, said Director General of Police (DGP) Punjab Gaurav Yadav here on Sunday.

          Those arrested have been identified as Karan Ganger (25), a resident of village Ror Majara in Hoshiarpur and Jaskarandeep Singh alias Kallu (23), a resident of village Ramgarh Jhungian in Garhshankar.

          As per the information, a person identified as Hardeep Singh alias Deepa Kulpuria was shot dead by some unidentified persons at his village Kulpur at Pojewal in SBS Nagar on July 2, 2025.

          DGP Gaurav Yadav said that arrested accused Karan Rormajara and Jaskarandeep Kalu, in connivance with USA-based Jaskaran Singh alias Kannu had recently killed a person in Pojewal, SBS Nagar due to their personal enmity. The arrested accused and Jaskaran Kannu are associates of Lucky Patial of Devinder Bambiha Gang, he said.

          The DGP said that further investigations are ongoing to establish backward and forward linkages in this case.

          Sharing operation details, Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) SBS Nagar Mehtab Singh said that following the murder, a special investigation team (SIT) headed by SP Investigation was constituted to probe the entire case.

          He said that police teams from CI Jalandhar and SBS Nagar Police, working on human and technical investigations, zeroed in on the location of the both the accused to be in Mumbai.

          Sharing more details, AIG Counter Intelligence Jalandhar Navjot Singh Mahal said that joint teams from CI Jalandhar and SBS Nagar Police were despatched immediately to Mumbai, who successfully managed to apprehend both the suspects with the help of local Mumbai Police.

          He said that the arrested accused were to be provided other targets by their foreign based handlers and such potential criminal acts have been averted because of their arrest.

          A case FIR no. 70 dated 03.07.2025 had been regitered under Sections 103, 191(3) and 190 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) and Sections 25 and 27 of Arms Act at police station Pojewal in SBS Nagar.

Chandigarh/Sangrur, August 24 –

 As part of the Punjab Government’s commitment to ensuring quality and transparency in development projects, Punjab Mandi Board Secretary, Mr. Ramvir, conducted a review of ongoing development works in Sangrur district today.

He was accompanied by Mr. Dalvir Singh Dhillon, Chairman of Punjab Small Industries and Export Corporation; Mr. Rajwant Singh Ghulli, Chairman of Market Committee, Dhuri; Mr. Gurinder Singh Cheema, Chief Engineer, Punjab Mandi Board; and other officials.

During his visit, he inspected the construction of the new Sub-Divisional Hospital and Mother-Child Hospital in Dhuri, various link roads, and the ongoing work of grain market in village Satauj.

Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann has advocated the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) for need-based construction of rural roads to optimize the use of public funds. He noted that smart road surveys conducted across the state have saved ₹383 crore by leveraging technology to transform sectors such as education, policing, and agriculture.

He instructed Punjab Mandi Board officials to prioritize quality in all development projects. He stressed the urgent need to strengthen and upgrade rural roads to facilitate smoother commuting for residents. The strategy for road construction has been meticulously planned, with priority given to roads that have not been repaired or rebuilt in over six years.

Highlighting the state’s shift toward smart governance, Mr. Ramvir stated that technology, transparency, and accountability are reshaping Punjab’s administration. Previously, crores of rupees were spent on road repairs without proper scrutiny. For the first time, a comprehensive AI-based survey, combined with videography, was conducted across the state, examining 3,369 roads. Of these, 843 were found to be in good condition, saving ₹383 crore. These savings will now be redirected toward public welfare projects, eliminating unnecessary tenders and corrupt practices.

He announced that similar inspections will be conducted across the state to uphold quality and transparency. He further directed that berms (sidewalks) must be constructed alongside roads to ensure safety and accessibility.

Chairman Dalvir Singh Dhillon said that Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann has urged contractors to maintain high standards in development and construction works. Contractors are now required to maintain roads and buildings for five years after project completion, ensuring long-term accountability.

He emphasized that the Chief Minister has approved the use of AI for the strategic development of rural roads, ensuring efficient utilization of resources while delivering high-quality infrastructure. This innovative approach is set to revolutionize road construction by significantly reducing costs. He added that the state government has decided to upgrade, reinforce, and widen rural roads to enhance connectivity across Punjab.

Mr Rajwant Singh Ghulli appealed to residents to provide honest feedback on the quality of materials used in construction projects, emphasizing that public funds belong to the people.

Chandigarh, August 24:

The Punjab Jail Department has initiated the process of purchasing ultra-modern security equipment for the jails of the state to further strengthen the security infrastructure.

Giving this information, Punjab Jail Minister S. Laljit Singh Bhullar said that the Punjab Government led by Chief Minister S. Bhagwant Singh Mann has always been serious about the security of the jails of the state. He said that in the current financial year, in addition to the major security equipment, full body scanners, body worn cameras, flood lights, walkie talkie sets, boom barriers, CCTV cameras, sniffer dogs, X-ray based scanners, search lights, high mast poles, non-linear junction detectors, anti-riot kits, e-carts, wire mesh in high security zones, etc. are being purchased to strengthen the security infrastructure of the jails.

S. Bhullar said that T-HCBS (Tower for Harmonious Call Blocking System) jammers have been installed in 2 jails of the state. He said that AI has been installed in eight central jails to generate alarms in case of throwing prohibited substances outside the main wall of the jail, wall scaling, rioting and use of mobiles, etc. The installation of the CCTV system has been completed and this system is also being implemented in 17 other jails of the state. He said that 19 X-ray baggage scanners have also been purchased to cover 13 sensitive jails of the state.

The Jail Minister said that 200 body worn cameras are being used to monitor the behavior of the prisoners in the jails. He said that 295 CCTV cameras are being installed to cover all the cells of the high security zones in the jails where high risk prisoners are lodged. Similarly, mobile network jamming solution is being installed at designated places in 13 sensitive jails with high security zones.

S. Bhullar further said that to save the expenses and staff incurred by the police department to produce the prisoners in the jails in the respective courts, maximum number of prisoners are being sent to VC. The department has also installed 159 VC systems in the jails and a proposal to build more than 200 VC systems and VC rooms is under consideration.

Chandigarh, August 24

The Punjab Government, under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, is committed to the welfare of freedom fighters and their families. To honour the brave heroes who made supreme sacrifices for India’s independence, the State Government is providing a monthly pension of Rs 11,000 to freedom fighters and their dependents.

Freedom Fighters Minister Mr. Mohinder Bhagat said that earlier the pension was only Rs 9,400 per month, but the Mann Government increased it to Rs 11,000. This step has further enhanced the dignity and respect of these families. He affirmed that the Punjab Government stands shoulder to shoulder with freedom fighters and their dependents at all times.

Mr. Bhagat stated that, in line with the vision of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, serving and honouring freedom fighters is the foremost duty of the Government. He said that these great sons of the soil, who contributed immensely to the freedom struggle, are a source of inspiration for all of us, and paying them respect is a matter of pride.

The Minister further added that Punjabis made an unparalleled contribution to the freedom struggle against foreign powers. “It was their courage and sacrifices that secured our nation’s independence. Their legacy will continue to inspire patriotism and love for the country among generations to come,” he remarked.

CHANDIGARH, August 24:

          Amidst the ongoing anti-drugs campaign ‘Yudh Nashian Virudh’ launched on the directions of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, the information received from the people on Punjab’s ‘Safe Punjab’ WhatsApp Chatbot portal— 9779100200— has led to the registration of 5,562 first information reports (FIRs) since March 1, 2025.

          Notably, the ‘Safe Punjab’ anti-drug helpline 97791-00200 is a flagship initiative of the Punjab Government aimed at providing anonymous, accessible, and non-judgmental support to individuals grappling with drug-related issues.

          “Safe Punjab Chatbot has emerged as a game-changer as it has received an overwhelming response from the public for its confidentiality feature encouraging individuals to report smugglers, addicts, and providing suggestions,” said the Special Director General of Police (Special DGP) Law and Order Arpit Shukla, while further encouraging people to anonymously share information regarding drug traffickers on this chatbot without any fear.

          The Special DGP said that apart from the ongoing crackdown against the drug smugglers and peddlers, the Punjab Police under the leadership of Director General of Police (DGP) Punjab Gaurav Yadav has also embarked on a special anti-drug awareness campaign to foster a sense of unity and collaboration among the general public in the fight against this critical issue.

          Divulging details, Special DGP Law and Order Arpit Shukla said that under this special campaign against drugs, Commissioners of Police and Senior Superintendents of Police (CPs/SSPs) have been directed to organise different awareness events including SAMPARK programmes, Meeting with Students, etc. in their respective districts to engage the general public, youth, non-government organisations (NGOs), clubs, etc in the fight against drugs. Since March 1, 2025, Punjab Police has organised 1153 SAMPARK meetings, while, 4293 meetings have been organised with the students, he said.

          Sharing outcome of the ‘Yudh Nashian Virudh’ campaign, Special DGP Arpit Shukla said that Punjab Police has registered 17,373 FIRs and arrested 26,995 drug smugglers since March 1, 2025, and recovered 1096 kg heroin, 380 kg opium, 23 ton poppy husk, 29 kg charas, 421 kg ganja, 6 kg ICE, 3.3 kg cocaine, 32.91 lakh intoxicant pills/tablets and Rs 12.43 crores drug money from their possession.

          Meanwhile, Police teams have continued its cordon and search operation (CASO) against drugs on Day 176, and conducted raids at 320 locations on Sunday leading to the arrest of 68 drug smugglers after registration of 48 first information reports (FIRs) across the state.

          The Special DGP said that the raids have resulted in recovery of 1 kg heroin, 5633 intoxicant tablets/capsules and Rs 23,910 drug money from the possession of arrested drug smugglers.

          He informed that over 120 Police teams, comprising over 1000 police personnel, under the supervision of 70 gazetted officers have conducted raids across the state and checked as many as 345 suspicious persons during the day long operation.

          The Special DGP said that with 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 47 persons to undergo de-addiction and rehabilitation treatment today.

Chandigarh, August 23, 2025

On the second day of the three-day Homi Bhabha Cancer Conclave (HBCC) 2025, Hon’ble Governor of Punjab and Administrator of Chandigarh, Shri Gulab Chand Kataria, inaugurated the state-of-the-art Robotic-Assisted Cancer Surgery facility at Homi Bhabha Cancer Hospital & Research Centre (HBCH&RC), Punjab.

The prestigious conclave, being held at the campus of Narsee Monjee Institute of Management Studies (NMIMS), Chandigarh, has brought together leading oncologists, researchers, and healthcare experts from across the country to deliberate on the latest innovations in cancer treatment, care, and prevention.

The ceremony was graced by Shri Gulab Chand Kataria, Hon’ble Governor of Punjab and Administrator of Chandigarh, as the Chief Guest. During the event, he inaugurated Robotic-Assisted Cancer Surgery at HBCH&RC Punjab. Commending the hospital’s contributions to cancer care in the region, the Governor said, “Over the past 80 years, Tata Memorial Centre has carved out a unique identity in the field of cancer treatment worldwide. With the alarming rise in the number of cancer patients in our country, the expansion of TMC has become a necessity. Today, there are nine centers established across India, two of which are in Punjab—a region that was in dire need of such advanced facilities.”

The second edition of Homi Bhabha Cancer Conclave witnessed participation from distinguished medical leaders including Dr. Shripad D. Banavali, Director (Academics), Tata Memorial Centre; Dr. A.K. Attri, Director Principal, GMCH-32 Chandigarh, Dr. Satyajit Pradhan, Director, HBCH & MPMMCC Varanasi, and Dr. Umesh Mahantshetty, Director, HBCH&RC Vizag.

The ceremony began with a welcome address by Dr. Ashish Gulia, Director, Homi Bhabha Cancer Hospital & Research Centre (HBCH&RC), Punjab, followed by the release of the Annual Magazine and the much-awaited launch of Robotic Cancer Surgery at HBCH&RC Punjab —a milestone in advanced cancer treatment for the region.

Highlighting environmental and lifestyle-related factors, the Governor remarked on the rising cancer burden, “Industrial pollution, contamination of the Sutlej river, increased use of chemical fertilizers, and lifestyle changes are all contributing to the rise of cancer cases. It is essential to focus on prevention and awareness while addressing the root causes of cancer if we are to control its spread.”

Speaking about national health initiatives, he added, “A healthy individual is the foundation of a healthy society, and a healthy society is the foundation of a healthy nation. No country can progress without health as its top priority. In 2013-14, India’s health budget was ₹33,000 crore. Today, it has increased to ₹1 lakh crore, a testament to the Government of India’s commitment to healthcare under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.”

Praising HBCH&RC’s preventive campaigns, the Governor said, “The hospital has screened more than 1.7 lakh people for early detection of cancer and treated many patients at an early stage. This is a remarkable achievement.”

Launch of Robotic Cancer Surgery at HBCH&RC Punjab

The introduction of robotic surgery marks a transformative leap in cancer treatment at HBCH&RC, Punjab. This cutting-edge technology enables surgeons to perform complex cancer surgeries with greater precision, minimal blood loss, and quicker recovery times. With this launch, HBCH&RC becomes one of the very few government cancer hospitals in North India to offer robotic-assisted surgical care, ensuring that patients from Punjab and neighboring states have access to world-class cancer treatment without the need to travel outside the region.

In a patient-centric initiative, Dr. Ashish Gulia, Director, HBCH&RC Punjab announced that the first 80 robotic surgeries for patients in the general category will be provided free of cost.

On this occasion, Director Gulia, highlighted the vision of the conclave, “HBCC 2025 is a confluence of science, innovation, and collaboration. Our mission is to bring cutting-edge cancer treatment to patients while creating an ecosystem where knowledge and research directly translate into improved patient care. The launch of robotic cancer surgery aligns with our commitment to precision oncology, ensuring that no patient in Punjab has to travel far for advanced treatment.”

He further added, “We are delighted to have over 400 experts and delegates joining us for HBCC 2025. I extend my gratitude to NMIMS for supporting us in hosting this academic event in North India. We remain committed to advancing education and awareness about common cancers across the region.”

The session also featured academic discussions on molecular pathology, gynecological and genitourinary cancers, pediatric oncology, breast oncology, and musculoskeletal oncology, along with masterclasses on advanced diagnostic and therapeutic techniques.

The conclave is hosting lectures, debates, panel discussions, and a special Cancer Awareness Walkathon at Sukhna Lake.

The event concluded with a vote of thanks by Dr. Alok K. Goel, Organizing Secretary, who acknowledged the contributions of dignitaries, faculty, and delegates in making HBCC 2025 a landmark event in the fight against cancer.

Chandigarh, August 23 — The grand unveiling and welcome ceremony of the Hero Asia Cup Rajgir, Bihar 2025 trophy was held in Chandigarh. The event took place at Hotel Hyatt Centric, Sector 17, and was organized by Hockey Chandigarh. Bollywood actor Jimmy Shergill and Punjab MP Malvinder Singh Kang graced the occasion as special guests. Speaking at the event, Shergill said, “Hockey is a heritage deeply tied to our national sporting spirit. Such tournaments inspire the youth to take up sports and bring pride to India.” MP Malvinder Singh Kang added, “Events like the Asia Cup are not just about sports but also promote unity and brotherhood. It is a matter of pride that India is hosting this mega event.” Hockey Chandigarh President Karan Gilhotra expressed that Chandigarh has always been the nursery of Indian hockey and this tournament would serve as a source of inspiration for the younger generation. Senior Vice President Pushvinderjit Singh and Vice President Anil Vohra of Hockey Chandigarh were also present. The prestigious tournament will be held from August 29 to September 7, 2025, at the newly built Hockey Stadium in the historic city of Rajgir, Bihar. A total of eight teams will participate in the 12th edition of the Asia Cup — India, Pakistan, Japan, Korea, China, and Malaysia, while the remaining two teams will qualify through the AHF Cup. This tournament is expected to mark a new milestone in India’s sports infrastructure and place Bihar prominently on the international sporting map. Notably, Rajgir had earlier successfully hosted the Women’s Asian Champions Trophy in November 2024, where India emerged as the winner. Bollywood actor Jimmy Shergill and Punjab MP Malvinder Singh Kang with Hockey Chandigarh President Karan Gilhotra , Secretary Anil Vohra and Senior Vice President Pushvinderjit Singh during the unveiling of the Hero Asia Cup 2025 Trophy in Chandigarh.