Shehna (Barnala), July 19 :

Slamming previous regimes in the state for sheltering those involved in heinous crimes of sacrilege, Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann on Saturday said that the newly introduced law will ensure exemplary punishment for such offenders.

Addressing a gathering after virtually dedicating public libraries, the Chief Minister reiterated his government’s commitment to curbing sacrilege. He shared that on Monday, the government introduced the Punjab Prevention of Crime Against Religious Scriptures Bill, 2025, in the Vidhan Sabha. Bhagwant Singh Mann emphasized that this sensitive and critical issue affects all Punjabis and has far-reaching implications for both present and future generations.

The Chief Minister asserted that stringent punishment is necessary to serve as a deterrent against such crimes. He said that the resounding success of Yudh Nasheyan De Virudh (War Against Drugs) has proven the effectiveness of the state government’s strategy in tackling drug abuse. Bhagwant Singh Mann noted that several politically powerful individuals, once considered untouchable, are now lodged in Nabha jail.

Their arrest, the Chief Minister said, has exposed the double standards of traditional political parties that were complicit in drug smuggling. Bhagwant Singh Mann pointed out that the drug menace had long tarnished Punjab’s image. In response, his government adopted a multi-pronged approach: disrupting drug supply chains, arresting major offenders, rehabilitating victims, and seizing or destroying illegally acquired property of drug smugglers.

As part of the anti-drug campaign, the Chief Minister said that village panchayats have been passing resolutions to declare their villages drug-free.

He stated that his government will not sit idle while smugglers thrive at the cost of the lives of drug victims. Bhagwant Singh Mann added that the state has already snapped drug supply lines and jailed the key players behind this crisis.

For the first time, the Chief Minister said that the illegally acquired properties of drug smugglers are being confiscated or demolished, serving as a strong deterrent to others. Speaking about the agricultural sector, Bhagwant Singh Mann said he had promised to ensure paddy transplantation without the use of tubewells. He expressed pride that canal water has now reached even the remotest villages at the tail ends of the state. He said that since taking office, the government has revived 15,947 water channels across Punjab.

The Chief Minister said that at the time he assumed office, only 21% of canal water was being used for irrigation but today that number has risen to 63%. Bhagwant Singh Mann also mentioned that his government successfully safeguarded Punjab’s water resources from being diverted to other states.

The Chief Minister announced that Punjab has launched the country’s first dedicated Sadak Surakhya Force (Road Safety Force) to enhance highway safety. He said that the force comprises 1,597 specially recruited and trained personnel, including women, and is equipped with 144 modern vehicles. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that Since its launch in February last year, road accident fatalities have dropped by 48.10% adding that  Several states and even the Government of India have commended this initiative.

Highlighting another major welfare initiative, the Chief Minister spoke about the Mukh Mantri Sehat Yojna — the first-of-its-kind scheme in the country that provides cashless medical treatment up to ₹10 lakh for every resident family in Punjab. He proudly stated that Punjab is the first Indian state to offer such comprehensive healthcare coverage, which will significantly ease the financial burden on the public while ensuring quality health services.

The Chief Minister added that his government has created a new benchmark by providing over 55,000 government jobs to youth within just 36 months of taking office. A foolproof and transparent recruitment process based entirely on merit has restored young people’s faith in public service. As a result, many youth have chosen to stay in Punjab and prepare for state government jobs rather than seeking opportunities abroad.

On the occasion Lok Sabha MP Gurmeet Singh Meet Hayer and others were also present.

Chandigarh, July 19

The International Model United Nations Conference was inaugurated today at Moti Ram Arya Senior Secondary School, Sector 27, Chandigarh. Member of Parliament and former Union Minister Shri Manish Tewari graced the occasion as the Chief Guest.

While addressing the gathering, MP Tewari emphasized the crucial role of youth in nation-building. He remarked that the youth are the future of our country, and such events play a vital role in honing their capabilities. He also expressed his appreciation to the school management for organizing such meaningful initiatives that contribute to the all-round development of students.

During his address, Mr. Tewari shared personal experiences and stressed the importance of discipline in life, noting that only a disciplined individual can successfully achieve his goals.

He also extended special thanks to Chander Mukhi Sharma for his continued efforts in spreading the light of education. Prior to the address, the school management presented a token of appreciation to MP Tewari.

Among those present on the occasion were Mr. Anil Mahajan (President, School Management Committee), Ms. Rachna Mahajan (Director), Dr. Seema Biji (Principal), Mr. Prateek Joshi (Program Coordinator), and Mr. Dakshesh Sharma, among others.

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Shehna (Barnala), July 19:

In order to inculcate reading habits amongst the youngsters, the Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann on Saturday dedicated eight public libraries in Barnala district constructed at a cost of Rs 2.80 crore.

Divulging more details, the Chief Minister said that eight libraries in the Vidhan Sabha constituencies of Bhadaur and Mehal Kalan have been dedicated to the people. He said that a total of ₹2.80 crore has been spent on these eight libraries constructed at village Shehna, Dhaula, Talwandi, Majhuke, Kutba, Deewana, Wajidke Kalan and Thulliwal adding that each library has been built at a cost of ₹35 lakh. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that equipped with modern infrastructure, these libraries have facilities like computers, internet access, quality literature, and books to help prepare for competitive exams.

The Chief Minister said that these libraries have kindled a new hope among students to realize their dreams. He said that now, students from remote villages can access knowledge from around the world through books while staying in their own villages. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that he firmly believes that these libraries will play a vital role in raising the intellectual level of students and helping them achieve their cherished goals.

The Chief Minister envisioned that these rural libraries will act as a harbinger of growth and prosperity in the state adding that this path breaking initiative is aimed at inculcating reading habits amongst the youth of the state. He said that this step will go a long way in empowering the youth and making them an equal partner in the social-economic development of the state. Bhagwant Singh Mann hoped that these libraries will go a long way in transforming the destiny of the youth and produce bureaucrats, scientists, Doctors, technocrats and others from them.

The Chief Minister said that these libraries have been equipped with high-end facilities like Wi-Fi, solar power digital analogs and others. He said that these libraries have world-class books on contemporary literature and curriculum books, providing a rich learning experience. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that these libraries are a true repository of knowledge and literature adding that it is a matter of great pride and satisfaction for all of us that this state of the art libraries houses precious books on varied subjects, which attracts the book lovers.

The Chief Minister said that the collection of libraries includes some of the rare and precious books, which would be a big asset for the book lovers. He envisioned that these libraries will prove to be a game changer for transforming the destiny of the students. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that the motive is to make sure that the youth excel in every field and gems are produced from the state for proving the mettle of state in varied fields.

Chandigarh, July 19 – Haryana Chief Minister Sh Nayab Singh Saini said that under the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Sh Narendra Modi, India is progressing rapidly towards becoming a developed nation, guided by the principle of Antyodaya espoused by Pandit Deendayal Upadhyaya. Since 2014, India has achieved remarkable milestones in development. Haryana is committed to playing a leading role in realising the Prime Minister’s vision of a ‘Viksit Bharat’ and will move forward in close coordination with the Central Government.

The Chief Minister was addressing a programme organised today in Jind district. On this occasion, he inaugurated the Agrasen Dharamshala and performed the Bhoomi Pujan for the Nandi and Kamdhenu Gaushala. He also announced a grant of Rs 31 lakh for the Dharamshala. Delhi Chief Minister Smt. Rekha Gupta attended the event as a special guest.

Sh Nayab Singh Saini said that under the leadership of Prime Minister Sh Narendra Modi, India has carved out a strong identity for itself on the global stage. The Prime Minister has consistently believed that India will become as an economic superpower, and today, it is a matter of pride that the Indian economy has advanced from the 11th position to the 4th largest in the world. This unprecedented journey of progress has been made possible through his dynamic leadership, and India is well on its path to becoming the third-largest economy in the near future.

Previous governments lacked clear development agenda

Taking a dig at the previous governments, Chief Minister Sh Naib Singh Saini said that previous regimes lacked a clear vision for the country’s development and used to pursue agendas unrelated to the nation’s progress. In contrast, the sole objective of the present government is to transform India into a developed nation by the year 2047. He affirmed that Haryana will contribute with full dedication and commitment to the ‘Viksit Bharat’ vision of Prime Minister Sh Narendra Modi.

Paying homage to Maharaja Agrasen, the Chief Minister said that the construction of the Agrasen Dharamshala is not merely a cement-and-concrete structure, but a living embodiment of the noble ideals and values of Maharaja Agrasen ji, who provided a new direction to society thousands of years ago. Maharaja Agrasen was a true symbol of righteousness, service and social harmony. His principle of ‘one brick and one rupee’ was the world’s first and most effective model of socialism and collective responsibility. He taught us that society is not built by one individual alone, but through the collective cooperation and support of all. The true Rajdharma lies in caring for the last person in society.

The Chief Minister said that this Dharamshala is a shared heritage of the entire society and will serve as a hub for social unity and harmony. He extended his heartfelt congratulations to all the donors, officials and volunteers of the Agrawal community, adding that their spirit of service will continue to inspire future generations.

CM Rekha Gupta is committed to serving the people, inspired by the ideals of Pandit Deendayal Upadhyay

Chief Minister Sh Nayab Singh Saini said that Haryana’s daughter, Smt. Rekha Gupta, has visited her native village Nandgarh for the first time today after assuming office as the Chief Minister of Delhi, coinciding with her birthday. He extended heartfelt greetings and best wishes to her on behalf of the people of Haryana. Praising the Delhi Chief Minister, Sh Saini said that Smt. Rekha Gupta belongs to a simple background and has committed herself to public service, guided by the ideals of Pandit Deendayal Upadhyay. Her entire life has been devoted to the service of the nation, and she has continuously worked for its progress. He added that her vision, policies, and dedication are focused on taking Delhi to new heights of development. He assured that the governments of Haryana and Delhi will work together with full strength and commitment towards achieving the goal of a ‘Viksit Bharat’.

Delhi and Haryana to play an important role in realizing vision of ‘Viksit Bharat’– Rekha Gupta

Speaking on this occasion, Delhi Chief Minister Smt. Rekha Gupta said that while Delhi is her karmabhoomi, Haryana is her janmabhoomi. She said that she will fulfill the responsibilities entrusted to her by Prime Minister Sh Narendra Modi with utmost dedication and will work tirelessly 24 hours a day in the service of the people.

She said that both Delhi and Haryana have a significant role to play in realizing the vision of a ‘Viksit Bharat’. It is due to the policies of the Bharatiya Janata Party and the visionary leadership of the Prime Minister that individuals from simple backgrounds are today holding top positions in states like Delhi and Haryana and placing the highest priority on public service.

Smt. Rekha Gupta also expressed her gratitude to Haryana Chief Minister Shri Nayab Singh Saini for dedicating the Agrasen Dharamshala to the people of Julana.

Cabinet Minister Krishan Kumar Bedi, Deputy Speaker Haryana Vidhan Sabha Dr. Krishan Lal Middha, BJP State President Mohan Lal Kaushik, MLA Ramkumar Gautam, Randhir Panihar, and other dignitaries were also present in the programme.

Chandigarh, July 19 – Haryana Chief Minister Sh Nayab Singh Saini has announced a series of development projects worth several crores for the residents of Julana Assembly Constituency. He announced the construction of a Sub-Divisional Complex in Julana at a cost of Rs 30 crore. In addition, Rs15.71 crore announced for nine projects related to the reconstruction of minors in various villages across the constituency. The Chief Minister also declared Rs 25 crore for 12 projects pertaining to drinking water and water supply schemes.

These announcements were made by the Chief Minister during a programme held at Nandgarh village in Julana Assembly Constituency in Jind district. Delhi Chief Minister Smt. Rekha Gupta was also present on the occasion.

Sh Nayab Singh Saini further announced Rs31 lakh for the construction of a veterinary hospital in Barahkalan village, Rs 60 lakh for setting up Anganwadi centres in four villages—Shadipur, Ramgarh, Karmagarh, and Roopgarh and Rs 67.90 lakh for the construction of an Ayurvedic hospital in Malvi village.

He said that the capacity of the 33 KV substation in Kharanti village will be enhanced and schools across the Julana Assembly Constituency will be renovated. He announced Rs 20.25 lakh for the construction of a parking shed at Government Senior Secondary School, Buana, and Rs 71.59 lakh for the construction of a boundary wall and paving the courtyard at Government Senior Secondary School, Devgarh.

Sub-health centres to be built in four villages at Rs 2.20 crore

In addition to Rs1.25 crore allocated for laying a drinking water pipeline in Barahkalan, the Chief Minister also announced Rs 1.50 crore for the construction of a retaining wall of pond at Teerth site in Ramrai Kalan. Sub-health centres will be established at a cost of Rs 2.20 crore in four villages of the Julana Assembly Constituency—Bararkheda, Nandgarh, Anupgarh, and Barahkalan—subject to the availability of land. He said that the feasibility of paving the old water courses along Devgarh Minor will be examined and the the same will be completed accordingly. Similarly, the feasibility of constructing an RCC road on the Julana–Badchhapper route will also be assessed and carried out.

He further announced that the land measurement system recorded in the revenue records of Devgarh village will be updated from the traditional units of Biswa and Bigha to Kanal and Marla. The sports stadiums in Nandgarh and Julana will be strengthened and renovated, and a Nagarpalika building will be constructed in Julana. Additionally, the Chief Minister announced Rs 5 crore for the construction of community centres in various villages under the Julana Assembly Constituency and another Rs 5 crore specifically for the development of rural areas in the constituency.

Prior to this, Chief Minister Sh Nayab Singh Saini also inaugurated and laid the foundation stone for eight development projects totaling Rs 16.80 crore. This included the inauguration of five projects worth Rs 5.21 crore and the foundation stone laying of three projects valued at Rs11.59 crore.

On this occasion, Cabinet Minister Krishan Kumar Bedi, Deputy Speaker Haryana Vidhan Sabha Dr. Krishan Lal Middha, State President of Bharatiya Janata Party Mohan Lal Kaushik, MLAs Ramkumar Gautam, Devendra Atri, Randhir Panihar and other dignitaries were also present.

Chandigarh, July 19 –Minister of State for Sports, Sh. Gaurav Gautam, said that Haryana’s sports policy is one of the best in the country. As a result, athletes from the state are winning the maximum number of medals in international competitions and bringing pride to the nation. He said that coaches play a key role in shaping these medal-winning athletes, and the government deeply respects and values their contributions. In this regard, the minister has approved cash awards totaling Rs.3.66 crore for 31 coaches of medal winning players in international competitions.The coaches will receive their award amounts soon. 

Sh. Gautam said that coaches across the state should continue training athletes with dedication so that they can bring more medals for the country. The state government has recently released an amount of about Rs. 32 crore as cash award for the players who won medals in the 4th Para Asian Games 2022, he added.

He said that Olympic gold medalists from the state receive Rs.7 crore, silver medalists receive Rs.5 crore, and bronze medalists get Rs.3 crore. To strengthen athletes financially, the government also provides a 3 percent job reservation quota for sportspersons.

The Sports Minister further said the government’s goal is to provide more sports grounds, experienced coaches, and quality equipment to athletes and is working in this direction as well. He appealed to the youth to stay away from drugs and take part in sports, so they can win medals and make the state and the country proud.

Chandigarh, July 19- Haryana Health, Medical Education and  Research and Ayush Minister Kumari Arti Singh Rao said that under the leadership of Chief Minister, Sh.Nayab Singh Saini, the state government is fully committed to addressing the shortage of doctors in Haryana. The government is giving special focus on recruiting doctors and the recruitment process is being carried out in a systematic manner.

Kumari Arti Singh Rao said this while addressing a programme organised in Kheri and Nawdi villages of the Ateli Assembly constituency on Saturday.

The Health Minister said that providing quality health services to every citizen is a top priority for the government. To achieve this goal, the health department is continuously recruiting new doctors to strengthen healthcare services in both rural and urban areas. She said that the government is ensuring that the recruitment process is transparent and swift so that qualified doctors can start serving the public as soon as possible.

The Health Minister further said that under the recommendations of the 15th Finance Commission, new buildings for sub-health centres will be constructed in the villages of Tigra, Bajad, Bihali, and Mohalda in Ateli block. These sub-health centers will help improve primary healthcare services in rural areas. Local residents will benefit from basic health check-ups, vaccination, pregnancy-related care, and treatment for common diseases right near their homes, reducing the need to travel long distances to big hospitals or main health centres.

The Health Minister also interacted with local villagers and listened to their problems. She announced an amount of Rs.10 lakh to the Panchayat of Kheri village for development works. She also planted a sapling in Kheri village under the ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’ campaign, promoting the message of environmental protection.