Chandigarh, August 20, 2025

The Equal Opportunity Cell for Persons with Disabilities (EOC-PwDs), Panjab University, in collaboration with Bibi Rajni Sewa Society (BRSS), organized an awareness program titled “Limitless: Stories of Inclusion and Strength” at the Student Centre, Panjab University.

The program was graced by Prof. Ramesh Kataria, Coordinator-cum-Nodal Officer for PwDs; Prof. Namita Gupta, Dean Student Welfare (Women); Dr. Amritpal Kaur, Chairperson, Department of IETVE; and Ms. Simran Kaur, Founder of Bibi Rajni Sewa Society.

The event showcased the creative talent and resilience of PwDs students through a variety of performances, including a thought-provoking skit jointly enacted by PwDs and non-PwDs students, along with soulful singing, stand-up comedy, and poem recitations by PwDs students.

As a mark of appreciation, certificates were distributed to scribes and volunteers who provide academic support to PwDs students of the university.

Speaking on the occasion, the dignitaries applauded the efforts of PwDs students and volunteers, highlighting that inclusion is not just about accessibility but also about celebrating diversity and talent. They encouraged students to continue working together in creating a compassionate, supportive, and inclusive campus environment.

Chandigarh, August 20, 2025

Panjab University, Chandigarh today hosted Principals’ Workshop on “NEP 2020: Implementation Challenges and the Way Forward” at the Seminar Hall, Rajiv Gandhi College Bhawan, Panjab University Chandigarh.

PU Vice-Chancellor Prof. Renu Vig, presided over the workshop organised by the Office of the Dean, College Development Council (DCDC). In her address, she shared the future course of action regarding the Implementation of National Education Policy – 2020.

Earlier, Dean, College Development Council Prof. Ravi Inder Singh, extended a warm welcome to the Vice-Chancellor, distinguished dignitaries, and all participating principals. In his opening remarks, he highlighted the importance of strengthening collaboration between the University and its affiliated and constituent colleges to translate the vision of NEP 2020 into action.

About 120 Principals and NEP Coordinators from different affiliated and constituent colleges of Panjab University took part in the workshop to deliberate on the effective implementation of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. Discussions revolved around addressing challenges, exploring best practices, and formulating practical solutions for institutional readiness.

Distinguished speakers shared valuable insights, and the interactive sessions are expected to inspire institutions to work collaboratively towards achieving the objectives of National Education Policy – 2020.

The workshop concluded with an interactive session, during which queries from principals and teachers were addressed by Prof. Jagat Bhushan, COE, Prof. Anil Monga, NEP Coordinator & Prof Veenu Mangat.

CHANDIGARH, August 20:

 The Punjab Police has formed several teams to investigate the camps which are allegedly collecting the personal information of individuals in the name of Government Schemes.

 The inquiries have been instituted after receipt of complaints stating that personal data of citizens is being collected by unauthorized persons who are holding camps, making the personal data vulnerable to data thefts and bank frauds. It has also been reported that forms are being filled-up at these camps

 The District Police Authorities have instructed the Inquiry Teams to join concerned persons in the inquiries, visit the alleged places of holding camps and conduct investigations in accordance with law.

          A Punjab Police spokesperson has appealed to the citizens not to share their personal data, including Aadhar Cards etc. with unauthorized individuals and access the Government Schemes directly online or through authorized mechanisms.

          The spokesperson added that the Government Suvidha Centres are facilitating citizens wishing to enroll themselves in Government Schemes or download beneficiary Cards, available after authentication of identity of the applicant from the database.

Chandigarh, August 20:

The Government has received credible reports that certain private operators are illegally collecting personal data of local residents, allegedly on behalf of political parties.

Disclosing this here today an Official Spokesperson of the Government said that under the Digital Personal Data Protection Act, 2023 (DPDP Act), any collection or use of personal data without consent is a punishable offence. The local police has been directed to take strict penal action against those engaged in such unlawful activities.

It has also come to notice that several individuals who shared their data were later targeted in scams and banking frauds, including cases where phone numbers and OTPs were misused to siphon off money.

The Government therefore strongly urges the citizens not to share their personal information with unauthorized persons or agencies, as it may be misused at any stage. Citizens are advised to remain vigilant and immediately report any such illegal activity to the authorities.

Chandigarh, 18 August 2025:

The general elections to elect the members of the Panchayat Samitis and Zila Parishads are to be held by 05.10.2025 as per Notification no. P.A.9/1994/S.209/2025/6205 dated 05.08.2025, issued by the Department of Rural Development and Panchayats.  For these elections, the Panchayat voter lists already published on 03.03.2025 by the Districts are to be updated. The State Election Commission has issued directions vide its letter dated 14.08.2025  addressed to all the Deputy Commissioners for updation of the electoral rolls of the voters with qualifying date of 01.09.2025, as under:-

PROGRAMME

I Draft publication of existing Electoral Rolls: On 19.08.2025.

II Filing of Claims and Objections, if any : From 20.8.2025 to 27.8.2025

III Disposal of claims and objections :By 01.09.2025

IV Final publication of electoral rolls: On 03.09.2025.

For this purpose, eligible persons may use Form-I (for inclusion of name); Form-II (for objections to inclusion of name); Form-III (objections to particulars in any entry).  These Forms are available with the concerned SDMs (Electoral Registration Officers), and are readily also available for download on the Commission’s website (https://sec.punjab.gov.in/ PANCHAYAT ELECTION→ STATUTORY FORMS).

 All the Deputy Commissioners-cum-District Election Officers in the State have been directed to give wide publicity at local level in all the rural areas covering Zila Parishads and Panchayat Samitis constituencies, so that all the eligible persons having completed 18 years of age as on 01.09.2025, are given due opportunity to register themselves as voters to participate in the elections.

State Election Commission duly informs the general public in rural areas as well as interested eligible voters to use this opportunity to enter their names in the voter list for the ensuing Zila Parishad and Panchayat Samitis elections, or to submit application to carry out any deletions, or amendments, if so warranted.

Chandigarh, August 18

Punjab Finance Minister Advocate Harpal Singh Cheema, who also serves as the Chairman of the Cabinet Sub-Committee formed to address the issues and demands of government employees, on Monday held meetings with the representatives from the Powercom & Transco Contractual Employees Union, the Punjab Ayurvedic Medical Services Association, and the Homeopathic Medical Officers Association to discuss their concerns in detail.

During a meeting at the PSPCL Guest House with the Powercom & Transco Contractual Employees Union, Finance Minister Cheema was joined by Power Minister Harbhajan Singh E.T.O and PSPCL Chairman-cum-Managing Director A.K. Sinha. The Finance Minister was briefed on the actions taken so far by the department in the direction of resolving the union’s legitimate demands.

Finance Minister Cheema directed department officials to prepare a proposal regarding these demands and discuss it with the Finance and Personnel Departments to facilitate further action. He assured the union leaders that the Punjab government is committed to resolving their legitimate demands. The union was represented by State President Balihar Singh, General Secretary Tek Chand, and Press Secretary Inderpreet Singh.

Earlier, at his Civil Secretariat office, Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema held separate meetings with the Punjab Ayurvedic Medical Services Association and the Homoeopathic Medical Officers Association. He engaged in detailed discussions regarding their demands and instructed both departments to prepare proposals for a quick resolution and submit them to the Finance Department. The union leaders thanked the Finance Minister for his sympathetic consideration of their demands.

Attendees from the Ayurvedic Medical Services Association included Patron Dr. Sanjeev Goyal, President Dr. Amanpreet Singh, and General Secretary Dr. Rajiv Mehta. The Homoeopathic Medical Officers Association was represented by Patron Dr. Rajiv, President Dr. Balwinder Kumar, General Secretary Dr. Harinder Pal Singh, and Vice President Dr. Richa.

Chandigarh, August 18:

          Punjab’s Tourism and Cultural Affairs Minister, Tarunpreet Singh Sond, today announced that the Punjab Government will commemorate the unparalleled martyrdom of Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji with grand events across the state. He said that the 350th martyrdom anniversary of the Ninth Guru, revered as Hind Di Chadar, will be observed through large-scale commemorative programmes.

          Sond informed that in this regard, review meetings with district administrations and key stakeholders have already been completed at Sri Anandpur Sahib, Sri Amritsar Sahib, Baba Bakala, and Patiala. He added that the state government has designated the Department of Tourism and Cultural Affairs as the nodal department for all planning and arrangements. He, along with the department’s advisor, Deepak Bali, held consultations with MLAs, officials, councillors, trade representatives, and prominent citizens of the concerned districts.

          The Minister announced that the commemorative programmes will be held between November 19 and November 25, 2025 at the state level. He said Punjab is blessed with 135 historical sites associated with Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib Ji, out of which 35 are located in Patiala district alone. “The sacrifice of Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib Ji is unparalleled in the history of humanity, and under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, the Punjab Government is committed to spreading the Guru’s eternal message of courage and faith to every corner of the world with the support of the Sikh sangat,” Sond stated.

          Highlighting the developmental aspect, the Minister said that besides organising state-level commemorative events at all sacred sites related to Guru Sahib, the government will also undertake large-scale development projects in these towns and villages. He shared that four religious processions (yatras) will commence from different locations and culminate at Sri Anandpur Sahib, passing through almost all major districts and cities of Punjab.

          Unveiling further details, Sond said that at Virasat-e-Khalsa in Sri Anandpur Sahib, Sri Akhand Path Sahib will commence on November 23, 2025, with participation from eminent personalities and religious leaders from across India and abroad. For the convenience of pilgrims, a Tent City will be set up for accommodation, and e-rickshaws will be arranged to facilitate travel to various holy sites. Additionally, the four major cities- Sri Anandpur Sahib, Sri Amritsar Sahib, Baba Bakala, and Patiala- will be illuminated with grand decorative lighting.

Chandigarh, August 18:

Punjab’s Social Security, Women and Child Development Minister, Dr. Baljit Kaur, informed that the Punjab Government has enforced The Maintenance and Welfare of Parents and Senior Citizens Act, 2007 to safeguard the welfare and property of senior citizens in the state. If any person misbehaves or assaults the elderly, or if children attempt to usurp the property of their parents, strict legal action and punishment will be ensured under this Act to protect their dignity and security.

Highlighting a recent case, Dr. Baljit Kaur said that the Department took immediate cognizance of a complaint filed by senior citizen Avinash Chander Khanna, a resident of Khanna, against his son and daughter-in-law. Taking the matter seriously, she directed the departmental officials to act without delay. Acting on her instructions, the Ludhiana District Administration and the Sub-Divisional Magistrate, Khanna, jointly resolved the issue.

The Minister said that the District Social Security Officer, Ludhiana, along with the police, visited the complainant’s residence and heard both parties. The son and daughter-in-law were made aware of the legal provisions of the Senior Citizen Act, 2007. They admitted their mistake, tendered an apology, and assured respectful behavior towards their parents in the future.

Dr. Baljit Kaur emphasized that the government led by Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann is fully committed to the protection of senior citizens. “Our elders are our pride. Anyone who misbehaves with them will not be spared under any circumstances,” she said.

She added that this prompt, sensitive, and law-based resolution marks a significant step towards safeguarding the rights of senior citizens. The Minister further clarified that if any individual attempts to harass or grab the property of senior citizens, the Punjab Government will ensure strict action under The Maintenance and Welfare of Parents and Senior Citizens Act, 2007.

Chandigarh, August 18:

Punjab State Scheduled Castes Commission Chairman S. Jasvir Singh Garhi has taken suo motu notice of a case involving the abuse of a Scheduled Caste person from village Sarangara, Ramtirth Road, under the Rajasansi constituency of Amritsar, and has sought a report from the SSP Amritsar.

Giving details in this regard, S. Jasvir Singh Garhi said that the matter came to his notice through social media, where a person was seen hurling caste-based abuses at a Scheduled Caste family. Taking cognizance of this, the Commission has initiated legal action.

He further stated that the Punjab State Scheduled Castes Commission is committed to safeguarding the rights and welfare of Scheduled Caste communities in the state and that strict action will be taken against those spreading casteism in violation of constitutional provisions.

Chandigarh, August 18:

Punjab Power Minister Harbhajan Singh ETO met representatives of various PSPCL/PSTCL unions here today.

During the meeting, the union leaders apprised the Power Minister of their demands and expressed gratitude to the state government for the recent 10 percent salary hike announced by the Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann -led Punjab government.

Speaking on the occasion, Cabinet Minister Harbhajan Singh ETO said that the Punjab government, under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, is committed to the welfare of state employees and assured that all their demands would be addressed soon.

PSPCL CMD Ajoy Kumar Sinha was also present at the meeting.