CHANDIGARH, July 19:

          With the war against drugs “Yudh Nashian Virudh” waged on the directions of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann to eradicate drug menace from state completed 140 days, Punjab Police on Saturday arrested 86 drug smugglers and recovered 1.5 kg heroin and Rs 45,700 drug money from their possession. With this, the number of total drug smugglers arrested has reached to 22,626 in just 140 days.

          The operation was conducted on the directions of Director General of Police (DGP) Punjab Gaurav Yadav simultaneously in all 28 Police districts of the state.

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

          Divulging details, Special DGP Law and Order Arpit Shukla informed that over 180 Police teams, comprising over 1200 police personnel, under the supervision of 81 gazetted officers have conducted raids at as many as 393 locations across the state leading to the registration of 64 first information reports (FIRs) across the state. Police teams have also checked as many as 434 suspicious persons during the day-long operation, he added.

          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 53 persons to undergo de-addiction and rehabilitation treatment today.

Chandigarh, July 18 – Haryana Environment Forests and Wildlife Minister, Rao Narbir Singh, met Union Minister for Power, Housing and Urban Affairs, Sh. Manohar Lal and Union Environment Minister, Sh. Bhupender Yadav today in New Delhi to discuss the proposed world’s largest jungle safari project in the Aravalli region.

Forest and Wildlife Minister Rao Narbir Singh, while giving information after the meeting held in New Delhi on Friday shared that this project, to be developed across nearly 10,000 acres, will be developed in four phases. The first phase, covering 2,500 acres, is expected to begin soon. This project will play an important role in wildlife conservation along with promoting green tourism.

To ensure the safari is equipped with global-standard facilities and best practices, Rao Narbir Singh, along with Chief Minister, Sh.Nayab Singh Saini and Union Minister, Sh. Manohar Lal, recently visited the ‘Vantara’ jungle safari in Jamnagar, Gujarat. This visit helped the team understand key aspects related to technology, structure, and conservation that can be adopted for the Aravalli project.

He further shared that Union Environment Minister, Sh. Bhupender Yadav has assured full support from the centre government to fast-track this initiative. The minister said that such projects are crucial in highly urbanized areas to support environmental balance and sustainable ecosystems.

Rao Narbir Singh said the safari will not only draw nature lovers and tourists but will also create employment opportunities for local youth, boost the regional economy, and enhance Haryana’s global image as a green state.

To further rejuvenate the Aravalli hills and conserve its ecosystem, the “Matri Van Abhiyan” will begin on July 27 in Gurugram. Union Ministers, Sh. Manohar Lal and Sh. Bhupender Yadav will lead the plantation drive. Rao Narbir Singh informed that this campaign falls under the larger Aravalli Green Wall Project, which aims to develop a three-layered green forest zone. The campaign is inspired by Prime Minister, Sh. Narendra Modi’s call for “ Ek ped Maa ke Naam”

As part of this effort, around 20,000 saplings will be planted from Shiv Nadar School to Ghata Chowk. Rao Narbir Singh called it a major step towards greenery, water conservation, and improving air quality, and urged the residents of the district to participate actively.

SAS Nagar, July 18:
In continuation of the Punjab Road Cleanliness Mission launched in the district two days back, Deputy Commissioner Komal Mittal conducted a detailed inspection of the road stretch from the Bus Stand lights to Phase 11, Mohali.

Sharing details of the inspection, the DC said the stretch starting from the light points of Phases 6 to 11 was thoroughly reviewed. Officers were directed to rectify all issues in a time-bound manner.

At the Phase 6 light point, she observed a disorganised gathering of labourers stopping vehicles in search of work. She instructed that they be shifted to a designated point where traffic flow remains undisturbed.

While passing the Phase 1 Police Station, the DC noted the poor condition of the side berms, which were overcrowded with impounded and confiscated vehicles. She emphasized their immediate removal. She also took strong notice of hanging electric cables along the road and directed PSPCL to secure them properly.

At the Swaraj light point, she found litter scattered across the road and ordered its prompt clearance. In Phase 5, near the mango belt, she stressed the need for constructing a rainwater harvesting structure to prevent waterlogging and ensure smooth traffic flow during rains.

Inspecting the markets and road stretches in Phases 3B2, 7 and 9, she expressed concern over the neglected condition of green belts, broken central verge grills, gaps in plantation and encroachments on side berms.

The DC took serious note of the waterlogged stretch from Gurdwara Saacha Dhan Sahib (Phase 3B1) to Chawla Lights and directed officials to lay a storm sewer line at the earliest.

During her visit to Phases 8 to 11, she instructed officials to ensure proper road signage and fully functional streetlights, especially at the chowk and road stretch between Gurdwara Amb Sahib and PSEB. She was also informed about ongoing sewer line work in Phase 9.

The Deputy Commissioner said that these field visits under the Punjab Road Cleanliness Mission aim to ensure timely repair of potholes, clear road markings, safe footpaths, working streetlights, regular waste removal, and overall civic hygiene and infrastructure maintenance.

She added that today’s inspection was conducted with the engineering and sanitation teams of MC Mohali and GMADA, and all concerned departments have been instructed to resolve the issues on priority before the next review.

Chandigarh, July 18 – Haryana’s Energy, Transport and Labour Minister Sh. Anil Vij said the construction work of a 100-bed building at Ambala Cantonment Civil Hospital has resumed. This building will be equipped with state-of-the-art medical facilities and will be designed as a Critical Care Unit (CCU) to provide high-level treatment to patients. With this expansion, the hospital’s capacity will increase from 100 to 200 beds. Additionally, the building is designed to minimize the risk of infection for regular patients.

Sh. Vij informed that the construction work was earlier stopped due to a case pending in the High Court and subsequent arbitration proceedings. Now, after a fresh tender process, the remaining work will be completed at a cost of ₹14.79 crore.

He further stated that with the addition of this new 100-bed building, the total capacity of the Civil Hospital will become 200 beds. This will greatly benefit patients and their attendants.

The building will have a total of seven floors, including two basement levels. One basement floor will be used for vehicle parking, while the other will house an air conditioning plant and a gas plant. The Ground Floor will include a registration-cum-reception center, emergency services, toilets, and other essential facilities. The First Floor will have a 28-bed emergency ward and the Second Floor will contain an infectious disease Intensive Care Unit (ICU).

It is noteworthy that this 100-bed building is being specifically developed as a Critical Care Unit (CCU) to provide advanced medical assistance in serious or emergency situations. Critical care involves continuous monitoring of the patient’s condition, availability of necessary medicines and equipment, and timely medical decisions based on the patient’s status.

In the CCU, close attention is paid to vital signs such as heart rate, blood pressure, and other indicators. This enables doctors to immediately detect any abnormalities and begin treatment without delay. The CCU will be equipped with oxygen support, medication management, emergency procedures, post-care, and recovery facilities. It will also have dedicated wards and facilities for COVID-19 and other infectious diseases.

Chandigarh, July 18 — Haryana Chief Minister Sh Nayab Singh Saini, who also holds the Finance Ministry portfolio, has granted final approval for the establishment of the ‘Department of Future,’ fulfilling the visionary commitment made in the 2025–26 budget. Following the Governor of Haryana’s assent of this forward-looking initiative, the State Government has issued a notification in this regard.

Chief Minister Sh Naib Singh Saini said that governments of the 21st century must focus not only on present needs but also on future challenges. Haryana’s administration will now base its policymaking on vision, data analysis, and technical expertise. The ‘Department of Future’ will lay a stronger foundation for the state’s progress in the years ahead.

Haryana’s policies will henceforth address not only current requirements but also anticipate future challenges. The establishment of the ‘Department of Future’ comes at a critical juncture, as climate change, technological revolutions, population growth, and global uncertainties present unprecedented challenges. The department’s primary objective is to deliver effective solutions through rigorous research, forecasting and collaborative policy development.

The primary objective of the ‘Department of Future’ is to identify Haryana’s social, economic and technological needs for the years ahead. The department will focus on integrating cutting-edge technologies such as Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, Quantum Computing, and Robotics into the policymaking process. It will also develop plans to equip the youth with future-ready skills. Its scope includes forecasting challenges in critical sectors like human resources, education, health, energy, agriculture, water, environment, and infrastructure, and preparing timely solutions accordingly. Additionally, the department aims to formulate long-term strategies by coordinating initiatives across all government departments. By analyzing the social impact, opportunities, and risks associated with emerging technologies, it will provide evidence-based recommendations. This approach will not only strengthen Haryana’s position in the global arena but also promote sustainable development and innovation-driven governance through the adoption of data intelligence and forecast modeling in planning.

Foundation of Future Haryana: A New Direction for Youth

Sh Nayab Singh Saini said that the new department will provide fresh direction and opportunities, particularly for the youth of Haryana. He said that in a rapidly changing world where traditional jobs and businesses are evolving, timely preparation of the youth will be the cornerstone of future policy. The ‘Department of Future’ will not only serve as a guiding force for the youth but will also play a decisive role in shaping policy decisions.

Haryana to Become a Pioneer of ‘Viksit Bharat 2047’

The Chief Minister said that the ‘Department of Future’ will be Haryana’s most significant contribution towards realizing Prime Minister Sh Narendra Modi’s vision of a ‘Viksit Bharat @2047.’ This department will drive Haryana towards a robust future by transforming vision into implementation through the coordinated efforts of the State Government’s triple-engine policy, collaborating closely with the Central Government, State Government and advancements in Technology and Innovation.

He said that this department will not only formulate policies but will also become an institution that transforms the mindset, working methods, and approach of Haryana. This is the seed of our future preparedness, which will grow into a banyan tree of prosperity and stability in the years to come, he added.

Future Department: One Resolution, One Vision, Beginning of an Era

This initiative marks not just the formation of a department but the dawn of a new era in policy, administration, and public welfare in Haryana. The department will propel Haryana from a model of ‘reactive governance’ to one of ‘proactive governance.’

Chandigarh, July 18:  Haryana Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare Minister Sh. Shyam Singh Rana directed officials to ensure payments are made to farmers promptly upon the sale of sugarcane. He also directed the immediate settlement of farmers’ outstanding arrears.

Sh Shyam Singh Rana was presiding over the meeting of the officers of the department here today. Principal Secretary of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare Department Sh Pankaj Agarwal, Additional Principal Secretary to the Chief Minister Dr. Saket Kumar, Director of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare Department Sh Rajnarayan Kaushik, Managing Director of “Haryana State Federation of Cooperative Sugar Mills” Sh Shakti Singh and other senior officers were present in the meeting.

The Agriculture Minister held detailed discussions with officials regarding the pending payments to sugarcane producers associated with Naraingarh Sugar Mill. He instructed them to resolve the issue as quickly as possible. He emphasized that sugarcane crushing at the mill should continue without interruption and that farmers should receive payment promptly.

Sh Rana said after the meeting that the state government remains fully committed to protecting farmers’ interests. The government is focused on reducing the cost of farming while continuously increasing crop yields. Farmers are being encouraged to conduct laboratory testing before sowing crops to maintain soil health. High-quality seeds are being made available, and efforts are underway to raise awareness among farmers to reduce reliance on chemical fertilizers. Additionally, various incentives are being offered to promote natural farming practices.

The Minister also stated that farmers in the state are being encouraged to adopt modern and diversified farming practices instead of traditional methods. Subsidies are being provided to those who start ventures in fish farming and animal husbandry. He reiterated that under the leadership of Chief Minister Sh Nayab Singh Saini, the state government is continuously working to enhance the income of farmers across the state.

Chandigarh, July 18-Minister of State for Sports, Sh. Gaurav Gautam, said it is a matter of great pride that athletes from the state continue to shine at international platforms such as the Olympics, World Championships, Asian Games, and Commonwealth Games by winning the maximum number of medals. The state government is consistently working to provide better sports facilities to the players and cash awards to boost their morale.

He informed that medal winners from Haryana who participated in the 4th Para Asian Games 2022 had requested the release of their cash awards. Responding to their demand, the government has released Rs. 19 crore, 72 lakh 50 thousand for 13 athletes from various districts and Rs.12 crore for four more athletes. As per the state’s policy, gold medal winners are awarded Rs.3 crore, silver medal winners receive Rs.1.5 crore, and bronze medalists are given Rs.75 lakh.

The Sports Minister said that the state government has formulated a comprehensive sports policy, which is now helping Haryana’s athletes achieve continued success at global levels. Other states across India are also adopting Haryana’s sports policy as a model.

He further said that para-athletes are a true source of inspiration for the youth. The Haryana government is committed to not only providing financial support to athletes but also covering their medical expenses in case of injuries during sports activities. To nurture young talent, the state has set up 1,500 sports nurseries, where children are training regularly and winning medals, he added.

Haryana Khel Mahakumbh dates to be rescheduled, events to be held in August

The Sports Minister also shared that the Haryana Khel Mahakumbh, which was earlier scheduled to be held from July 28 to 30, 2025, will now be rescheduled. Since CET and HTET exams are expected to be conducted around the same time, the change in dates is to ensure that candidates and players do not face any inconvenience. He has directed sports officers to make the necessary changes. The Khel Mahakumbh will now be held in August 2025, and the new dates will be announced soon.

Chandigarh, July 18 – Haryana Chief Minister Sh. Nayab Singh Saini said considering the demands of the youth, the government is conducting the second CET examination in the state and all preparations for the CET have been completed. A total of 13.87 lakh candidates from across the state have applied for CET Group-C examination. The examination will be held on July 26 and 27 and to transport candidates from their homes to the exam centres and back, 9,200 buses have been arranged.

The Chief Minister was speaking to mediapersons on Friday. He said that registrations are being done for availing the bus service. In addition to Haryana Roadways buses, private school buses have also been arranged. The government had requested private schools to assist in this initiative to ensure convenience for the youth, especially for girls. During the exam, one family member of female candidates will also be allowed to travel free of cost.

Congress Involved in corruption for a long time

Responding to a question related to Robert Vadra, the Chief Minister said there had been an ongoing case and investigation against him for a long time. He said the Congress committed numerous wrongdoings and acts of corruption during its rule, which were bound to come to light eventually. He added that during the Congress government’s tenure, rules were bypassed to make the poor poorer and certain individuals excessively wealthy – Robert Vadra being one of them.

Responding to a question about Punjab Chief Minister Sh. Bhagwant Mann, the Chief Minister said there are other forces working behind his government, and Bhagwant Mann himself is unaware of many such activities.

In response to another question, the Chief Minister welcomed the move by the United States to designate The Resistance Front, a Pakistan-backed group, as a foreign terrorist organization and specially designated global terrorist group. This organization had claimed responsibility for the Pahalgam terror attack. He appreciated this step by the U.S., saying that such organizations aim to create fear and terror among the people. He urged other countries to take similar actions.

Chandigarh, July 18 – Haryana Women and Child Development and Irrigation and Water Resources Minister, Smt. Shruti Choudhry, paid a courtesy visit to Union Finance Minister, Smt. Nirmala Sitharaman at her residence in Delhi today.

During the meeting, Smt. Shruti Choudhry had a detailed discussion with the Finance Minister on various topics related to the progress, development, and welfare of the people of Haryana. She also briefed the Union Minister on several ongoing projects aimed at the overall development of the state.