CHANDIGARH, January 27:

          Continuing the war against drugs “Yudh Nashian Virudh” waged by Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann to eradicate drug menace from state consecutively for the 332nd day, Punjab Police conducted raids at 334 locations on Tuesday leading to the arrest of 42 drug smugglers after registration of 35 first information reports (FIRs) across the state. With this, the number of total drug smugglers arrested has reached to 46,606 in 332 days.

          The raids have resulted in recovery of 2.1 kg heroin and Rs 25,400 drug money from the possession of arrested drug smugglers.

          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.

          Over 120 Police teams, comprising over 900 police personnel, under the supervision of 68 gazetted officers have conducted 334 raids across the state. Police teams have also checked as many as 353 suspicious persons during the day-long operation.

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

          Meanwhile, Special DGP Arpit Shukla said that “Gangstra Te Vaar”— a decisive war to make Punjab a gangster-free state has been going on and an intensive checking of suspicious people was carried out across the state on its Day 8. Several suspicious persons have been rounded up and further investigations are ongoing.

Chandigarh: The Society for Divine Reiki Meditation, in collaboration with Global Alliance for Rights & Duties, organized two sessions at the Community Centre, Sector 27, Chandigarh. The event featured two key sessions: “Karma Yoga, a Key to a Happy, Peaceful Life” and “Cyber Smart Tips for Senior Citizens.” This program was supported by Senior Citizens Association Sector 27D Chandigarh.

The Karma Yoga session, led by Jasjeet Suri, Vice Principal of Chitkara School of Maritime Studies, highlighted timeless wisdom from the Bhagavad Gita, emphasizing duty without attachment, balance in success and failure, and mental steadiness for true peace and happiness.

The Cyber Smart session, conducted by Advocate Devansh Arora of Punjab & Haryana High Court, provided essential cyber safety tips for seniors, including not sharing OTPs, passwords, or PINs, avoiding unknown links, and reporting cyber fraud promptly.

Chief Guest Gian Singh, S.H.O. Police Station Sector 26, and Guests of Honour PP Jain Chairman, Daljit Singh General Senior Citizens Association and Shikha Nijhawan President Neighbourhood Development Association graced the occasion. Organizers Jasjyot Singh Almast and Lovleen Kaur stressed the importance of such talks for seniors’ emotional well-being and financial safety.

HOSHIARPUR:

Unfurling the national Tricolour in Hoshiarpur on Republic Day, Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann coupled the ceremonial occasion with a firm assertion of Punjab’s constitutional rights and a detailed account of his government’s governance record. Recalling Punjab’s unmatched sacrifices in India’s freedom struggle and its continuing role as the country’s Food Bowl and Sword Arm, the Chief Minister said the state has been unjustly denied its rightful capital and a separate High Court since Independence, and made it clear that attempts to undermine Punjab’s claim over Chandigarh, Panjab University and its water rights would not succeed. He underlined that Punjab would continue to pursue legal and constitutional remedies every day to protect its interests.

Linking governance with heritage and faith, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann recalled the historic commemoration of the 350th Shaheedi Diwas of Sri Guru Teg Bahadur Ji, the declaration of Sri Amritsar Sahib, Sri Anandpur Sahib and Talwandi Sabo as holy cities, and announced that the 650th Parkash Parv of Sri Guru Ravidas Ji would be celebrated on similar lines through state-level programmes from February 1 this year to February 20, 2027.

Highlighting the direction of governance, the Chief Minister pointed to decisive action against drugs, gangsters and narco-drones under ‘Yudh Nashean Virudh’ and ‘Gangsteraan Te Vaar’, universal healthcare coverage of up to ₹10 lakh, more than 63,000 government jobs provided without bribes, and a sharp reduction in road accident fatalities through the Sadak Surakhiya Force. He also expressed concern over changes to MGNREGA affecting Scheduled Caste and landless families, cited record investments of ₹1.5 lakh crore generating 5.2 lakh jobs, and announced the Punjab Investment Summit from March 13 to 15.

Addressing the gathering, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann stated, “Despite the tremendous contribution towards the country and its people, Punjab does not have its own capital. Since Independence, Punjab has been unlawfully deprived of it. To worsen the situation, conspiracies are hatched daily to deprive the state of its capital, Panjab University, waters and other rights. This will never be allowed. Chandigarh was, is and will always remain an integral part of Punjab and the state government will make all-out efforts to take back its capital.”

Expressing anguish over the absence of a separate High Court, the Punjab Chief Minister said it was unfortunate that Punjab does not have its own High Court whereas small states in the North East have their own capitals. “In the absence of its own High Court, Punjabis have to suffer a lot due to the huge pendency of cases in the Punjab and Haryana High Court,” he said.

Extending heartfelt greetings to all Punjabis and citizens across the country, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann paid homage to thousands of patriotic freedom fighters who sacrificed their lives during India’s freedom struggle.

Saluting the brave soldiers of the Army, Navy and Air Force, the Chief Minister recalled their stellar role in safeguarding the sovereignty, unity and integrity of the country. “On this day in 1950, the Constitution of the country came into force. This is a very special day for all Indians. It is a matter of immense pride and satisfaction that we are proud citizens of the world’s largest democracy,” he said.

On the sacred occasion, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann bowed in reverence to the invaluable contribution of the chief architect of the Indian Constitution, Babasaheb Dr Bhimrao Ambedkar, in framing the Constitution. He said Punjabis take pride in the fact that the maximum sacrifices in the freedom struggle were made by Punjabi warriors. “The inspiration to stand firm against tyranny, injustice and oppression is ingrained in every Punjabi from the teachings of our revered Gurus,” he said.

Recalling historic movements, the Chief Minister said freedom movements such as the Kuka Movement, Babbar Akali Movement, Ghadar Movement, Komagata Maru incident and Pagri Sambhal Jatta were led by Punjabis. “National heroes like Baba Maharaj Singh, Baba Ram Singh, Shaheed Bhagat Singh, Shaheed Sukhdev, Lala Lajpat Rai, Shaheed Udham Singh, Shaheed Kartar Singh Sarabha, Madan Lal Dhingra, Diwan Singh Kalepani and hundreds of others laid down their lives for the freedom of India,” he said.

CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said Punjabis have made an exemplary contribution to the nation’s progress and have always been at the forefront in safeguarding the country and making it self-reliant in food production.

Highlighting the role of farmers, the Chief Minister said Punjab’s farmers are the nation’s food providers whose hard work and resilience ensure that no one sleeps hungry. “Punjab contributes more than 60 percent to the nation’s food reserves. Even during last year’s devastating floods, Punjab’s farmers contributed 156 lakh metric tonnes of paddy to the central pool,” he said, adding that because of the contribution of Punjab’s farmers and soldiers, the state is aptly called the “Food Bowl and Sword Arm of the Nation.”

Paying tribute to those who helped the state recover from floods, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said he salutes all valiant heroes who put Punjab back on track despite heavy floods. “Despite such a huge natural catastrophe, the state was on its feet within a few hours,” he said.

The Chief Minister said that for the sake of the country, Punjab has sacrificed its fertile land and water resources, which are its only available natural resources. “Despite the greatest sacrifices, Punjab continues to face injustice and discrimination and is being forced to wage legal, legislative and administrative battles to secure its rights,” he said.

Stating that Punjab is being meted out step-motherly treatment, Bhagwant Singh Mann said conspiracies are being hatched to snatch its rights. “An attempt was made to curtail Punjab’s legal rights over BBMB and waters, but the state government did not allow it to succeed,” he said.

Expressing concern over changes in Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA), the Chief Minister said the Centre has renamed and altered the structure of the scheme, which will snatch livelihoods from Scheduled Caste workers, women and landless families. “Punjab has the highest proportion of Scheduled Caste population in the country. This new law will prove disastrous for the SC community,” he said.

CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said that at present 19.85 lakh families are registered as MGNREGA workers in Punjab, out of which 12.65 lakh belong to the Scheduled Caste community. “The state government is fighting this war against the Centre through legislation and courts,” he said.

He also said that the Centre has withheld Rural Development Fund (RDF) funds meant for rural development despite the clear demarcation of Centre–State rights in the Constitution.

Asserting Punjab’s resolve, the Chief Minister said, “Punjab has to fight every day to get its rights from the Centre. Let me make it very clear that Punjabis have never bowed down, and they never will in the future.”

Warning divisive forces, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said false propaganda is being spread to divide Punjabis, but the state government will never allow such designs to succeed. He issued a stern warning to gangsters and their sympathisers trying to disturb peace to abandon the path of crime or be ready to face consequences. “A crackdown against gangsters, ‘Gangsteraan Te Vaar’  is underway. Their supporters will also not be spared. No leniency will be shown to lawbreakers. Peace, unity and brotherhood will be maintained at all costs, and the state government is duty-bound to ensure this,” he said.

Listing initiatives taken by the Punjab Government over the last four years, the Chief Minister said the Punjab government is committed to delivering governance that fulfils the dreams of martyrs.

He said an all-out war against drugs has been launched under ‘Yudh Nashean Virudh’, under which drug supply chains were snapped, traffickers jailed, their properties demolished, and victims treated and rehabilitated. “Anti-drone technology has been installed along the 532-kilometre-long international border. So far, 498 drone activities have been detected and 256 drones seized,” he said.

CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said the second phase of the ‘Yudh Nashean Virudh’ has begun and citizens can join it by giving a missed call at 98991-00002. He said village and ward-level defence committees have been formed, recovered addicts are being honoured as heroes, skill training is being provided for rehabilitation, and 3,083 rural sports grounds are being developed. He said to wean youth away from drugs, ‘Khedan Watan Punjab Dian’ have been organised with participation from three generations.

CM Bhagwant Singh Mann noted that the 350th Shaheedi Diwas (martyrdom day) of Sri Guru Teg Bahadur Ji was commemorated in an unprecedented and historic manner across the state. He said that ₹20 crore has been spent on the construction of the Bhai Jaita Ji Memorial at Sri Anandpur Sahib. The Chief Minister said Sri Amritsar Sahib, Sri Anandpur Sahib and Talwandi Sabo have been declared holy cities, while the Mukh Mantri Tirath Yatra Scheme enables devotees to visit religious places free of cost.

CM Bhagwant Singh Mann further announced that, on similar lines, the 650th Parkash Parv (birth anniversary) of Sri Guru Ravidas Ji, falling on February 1, will be celebrated on a grand scale, with programmes and events to be organised from February 1 this year and continuing in a sustained manner up to 2027, ensuring a befitting and comprehensive commemoration of Guru Ravidas Ji’s legacy.

Highlighting healthcare reforms, the Chief Minister said the Mukh Mantri Sehat Yojna provides cashless treatment up to ₹10 lakh for all 65 lakh families. “Income conditions have been removed. Government employees and pensioners have also been included. Punjab has become the first state to provide free healthcare to all citizens,” he said.

CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said 881 Aam Aadmi Clinics are providing free treatment daily and the number will soon touch 1,000.

On employment, he said 63,027 government jobs have been given transparently without bribe or recommendation. He said 90 percent households are receiving free electricity and for the first time in Punjab’s history, more than eight hours of uninterrupted daytime power is being supplied to farm tubewells during the paddy season, allowing farmers to have meals at home.

The Chief Minister said 6,900 kilometres long 18,349 watercourses have been revived, ₹2,300 crore is being spent on the Malwa canal, the first canal constructed after Independence.

On education, the Chief Minister said 118 Schools of Eminence have been established, teachers have been sent for training in Finland, Singapore and Ahmedabad, bus services for girl students are benefitting over 10,000 girls, Punjab topped the National Achievement Survey by surpassing Kerala, and government school students cleared JEE and NEET in large numbers.

CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said investments worth ₹1.5 lakh crore have been attracted since 2022, generating 5.2 lakh jobs. He announced that the Punjab Investment Summit will be held from March 13 to 15.

He said Punjab offers the highest sugarcane price in the country at ₹416 per quintal, stubble burning incidents have reduced by 53 percent, and closure of 21 toll plazas has saved ₹67.7 lakh daily for citizens.

The Chief Minister said the Punjab government provides ₹1 crore honorarium to the families of defence personnel who lost their lives in the line of duty and ₹2 crore honorarium to the families of police personnel in case of losing their lives during duty.

Highlighting the Sadak Surakhiya Force, the Chief Minister said it is the first-of-its-kind initiative in the country. “Since its launch in February last year, road accident fatalities have reduced by more than 48 percent. The force is deployed along 4,200 kilometres of highways and also acts as a deterrent against traffic violations,” he said.

He said village ponds have been cleaned, libraries built, 49,000 kilometres of rural roads upgraded, 1,600 bus permits issued to youth, the Easy Registry scheme introduced, and a Rs 148 crore memorial is being built at Khural Garh associated with Sri Guru Ravidas Ji.

Praising Hoshiarpur district, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said it is Punjab’s most educated district, tops in gender ratio, excels in athletics and football, and Mahilpur is globally known as a football nursery. He said work on the medical college in Hoshiarpur will begin soon and released posters for the Nature Fest to be held in February.

*CM Bhagwant Singh Mann inspects parade, witnesses cultural performances and felicitates achievers at Republic Day celebrations*

Earlier, the Chief Minister inspected the parade led by Parade Commander Dhirendra Verma, IPS, and Assistant Parade Commander Ramanpreet Singh Gill, and took salute from contingents of Punjab Police, Punjab Home Guards, PESCO, NCC, Boy Scouts, Police Cadets, Girl Guides and the Punjab Police Brass Band.

Tent pegging by the PAP Jalandhar team and a colourful cultural programme including Bhangra, Giddha, group dance, PT show and group singing by school students were also presented.

The Chief Minister felicitated freedom fighters and their kin, distributed tricycles to the physically challenged and sewing machines to needy women. Tableaux depicting the development of the state and district administration were also showcased.

CM Bhagwant Singh Mann also felicitated officers, officials, participants and citizens from various walks of life for their remarkable contribution to society during the Republic Day celebrations.

IEP Chandigarh

PGIMER celebrated the 77th Republic Day with solemn pride and renewed institutional resolve, bringing together the entire PGI fraternity to honour the nation and its constitutional values. The celebrations, presided over by Prof. Vivek Lal, Director, PGIMER, included ceremonial flag hoisting, a vibrant cultural programme and an address that reflected PGIMER’s expanding national role, major clinical milestones and key administrative reforms, describing 2025 as a defining year of unprecedented milestones for the institute.

In his address, Prof. Vivek Lal, Director PGIMER highlighted PGIMER’s key contribution to Op.  Sindoor, underscoring the institute’s readiness to serve the nation beyond routine healthcare delivery as he stated, “Op. Sindoor demonstrated how PGIMER stands ready whenever the nation calls—combining speed, compassion and clinical excellence. This is public healthcare at its most meaningful.” Prof. Lal also saluted the drivers, nursing officers, resident doctors and other healthcare personnel deputed at ground zero during Op. Sindoor for their commitment, courage and professionalism.

Calling Republic Day a reminder of constitutional responsibility, Prof. Lal said, PGIMER continued to lead from the front despite rising patient load and systemic challenges, adding, “Patient load is not a burden, but a responsibility, and it is a matter of immense pride that we strengthen our constitutional duty by ensuring equitable, ethical and world-class care for every patient.”

Highlighting major clinical reforms, the Director said the extension of regular operation theatre timings from 8 am to 8 pm, an unprecedented move in public healthcare, had resulted in a 30–40 per cent reduction in surgical waiting periods. Emphasising the scale of the reform, Prof. Lal  stated, “Nowhere in the world are regular OTs run continuously at this scale. It was a difficult decision, but the results are clearly visible,” while commending the Departments of Anaesthesia, General Surgery, Neurosurgery, Pathology, Haematology, Neonatology and Transfusion Medicine for their sustained efforts.

Citing a recent organ retrieval and transplantation case successfully completed despite extreme weather and time constraints, Prof. Lal underlined PGIMER’s leadership in renal and complex organ transplantation, supported by robust green corridor coordination, seamless logistics and strong inter-departmental teamwork, stating that “PGIMER has emerged as a national leader in renal transplantation and advanced organ transplants, delivering outcomes comparable with the best centres globally.”

Addressing institutional governance, the Director announced the resolution of long-pending promotion and service matters of technical and non-faculty staff, calling it a long-overdue corrective step and said, “Our staff served the institute with dedication despite years of stagnation. That phase is now behind us,” drawing warm applause from the gathering.

Acknowledging resident doctors as the ‘karta-dharta’ of PGIMER, Prof. Lal assured that their genuine concerns and demands would be addressed through institutional mechanisms, stating, “Residents are the backbone of this institute. Their issues will be resolved with empathy and responsibility.”

The Director also noted that the induction of experienced ex-servicemen into campus security services had significantly strengthened discipline, safety and response preparedness. On infrastructure expansion, Prof. Lal said satellite centre of Sangrur and new facilities are progressing steadily, which would substantially decongest the main campus in the near future.

Emphasising PGIMER’s global standing, the Director said, “PGIMER is recognised globally as a fountain of medical knowledge. That reputation is built on integrity, service and research.”

Prof. Lal also welcomed the initiative of Vishram Sadan by Adani Group at Sarangpur, on 6,000 square metres of land at no cost to PGIMERas he said, “It is a landmark step in supporting attendants of our patients. It reflects our commitment not just to healthcare, but to compassionate care for families who are integral to the patient journey.”

Reiterating his commitment to patient-friendly care, the Director announced plans for an underground tunnel from PGI to Sarangpur. Once approved, it will reduce traffic and rush, especially when all campuses are operational. “We are committed to taking this proposal forward to the Ministry to ensure a smoother experience for patients and visitors alike,” shared Director PGIMER.

Concluding his address, Prof. Lal saluted the institute’s “Karmayogis” and reaffirmed PGIMER’s commitment to research as the spearhead of progress, stating, “As we celebrate Republic Day, we salute the perseverance of the PGIMER family that makes this institution a beacon of excellence for the nation.”

The celebrations concluded with the distribution of sweets, symbolising unity and camaraderie, and a collective pledge to uphold the constitutional values of compassion, commitment and devotion.

Chandigarh, January 26 – Haryana Chief Minister Sh. Nayab Singh Saini said there is no difference between the government’s words and its actions. Today, Haryana is writing a new definition of prosperity. Embracing the core principle of “government of the people, for the people and by the people,” the state of Haryana is moving rapidly forward, step by step, with Prime Minister Sh. Narendra Modi’s resolve of a ‘Viksit Bharat’. The Haryana Government has not only launched new schemes for the upliftment of the poor by breaking away from old practices, but has also ensured that these schemes are implemented effectively on the ground.

The Chief Minister was addressing the gathering at the district-level function held in Gurugram on Monday on the occasion of the 77th Republic Day. He first paid floral tributes to the martyrs at the Veer Shaheedi Memorial and then unfurled the National Flag. The Chief Minister inspected the parade and took the salute from various contingents, including Haryana Police, Women Police, Home Guards and Scouts.

Sh. Nayab Singh Saini began his address by paying homage to the immortal martyrs, freedom fighters, the chief architect of the Constitution, Baba Saheb Dr. BR Ambedkar, and all members of the Constituent Assembly. He said that Republic Day, imbued with the spirit of Vande Mataram and the resolve of Aatmanirbhar Bharat, reminds us of the nation’s unity, cultural pride and self-reliance. Despite its diversity, our nation has always remained united, a glimpse of which is reflected in the glorious celebrations marking 150 years of Vande Mataram. Advancing steadily on the path of self-reliance, India today is creating a new identity on the global map, which is a matter of pride and inspiration for every citizen.

Republic Day—Remembrance of the past and a pledge for a bright future

The Chief Minister said Republic Day is not only a festival of remembering the past, but also a grand occasion to envision the golden picture of our present and future that we have collectively shaped over the last 11 years. He said for decades, governments changed but the system did not. With the objective of systemic transformation, the government had taken 217 resolutions in its manifesto during the last Assembly elections. Of these, 54 resolutions have been fulfilled within just one year, while work on the remaining 163 is progressing rapidly. He said that today Haryana’s policies such as “bina parchi-bina kharchi” recruitment, online registry system, transparent online transfer policy, educated panchayats and the Antyodaya initiative are being discussed across the country, presenting a strong and transparent image of the new Haryana.

Haryana’s significant contribution to national progress

The Chief Minister said that Haryana has a significant contribution to the nation’s progress. He stated that although Haryana accounts for only 1.34 percent of the country’s total geographical area and 2.09 percent of its population, it contributes 3.7 percent to the national GDP. With a per capita income of Rs. 3.53 lakh, Haryana ranks first among the major states of the country. Haryana is also ranked first in per capita GST collection and is included in the Top Achievers category in the State Ease of Doing Business rankings. The state ranks second in the country and first in North India in providing better logistics facilities to industries. Haryana is also the leading state in winning the highest number of medals in the Olympics and other international sporting events.

Haryana becomes the first choice of domestic and global investors

Sh. Nayab Singh Saini said that it is the result of the government’s incentive schemes that Haryana has today become the first choice of investors from India and abroad. Over the past 11 years, 12.92 lakh micro, small and medium enterprises have been established in the state, generating employment for around 49 lakh people. He said that industries are the backbone of the economy and a major source of employment; therefore, Ease of Doing Business has been strengthened by eliminating outdated rules and complex procedures. Today, more than 150 services are available online for investors, and all approvals are being ensured within 12 days. He added that with the objective of regional balance, industrial development is being promoted across the state—Maruti Suzuki’s largest plant is coming up in IMT Kharkhoda, along with a Suzuki Motorcycle plant and an alloy wheel plant of the Uno Minda Group. Gurugram has emerged as a global hub for IT and startups, where a township is being developed over 1,000 acres under the Global City Project. Logistics hubs are being developed in Narnaul, a manufacturing cluster in Hisar, and an electronics park in Sohna.

Decisive steps towards a secure future for youth

The Chief Minister said that the government is fully committed to securing the future of youth and has translated its promises into action. He informed that with the formation of the new Council of Ministers, 24,000 youths were given government jobs on October 17, 2024. In the last one year, a total of 34,000 youths have been provided employment, while over the past 11 years this figure has reached 1.80 lakh. He said that the government has not limited itself to government jobs alone, but has also focused on job security by enacting a law to secure the future of youths working under the Haryana Kaushal Rozgar Nigam. To make youth employment-oriented, 1.14 lakh youths have been provided skill training. To effectively curb the problem of the “Donkey route,” a Bill was passed in the Assembly on March 26, 2025 and enacted into law to ensure strict action against illegal and fraudulent travel agents.

Government empowering women economically, socially and educationally

The Chief Minister said that without the participation of women, the vision of ‘Viksit Bharat-Viksit Haryana’ remains incomplete. He said this is the decade of women power, which will shape the direction of the nation and the state; therefore, it is essential that women are healthy, safe and economically empowered. With this vision, the government has effectively implemented several schemes on the ground to make women self-reliant. Under the Deendayal Lado Lakshmi scheme, 8.64 lakh women are being provided Rs. 2,100 per month, and Rs. 441 crore has already been disbursed. To provide relief to poor women, 15 lakh families are being given gas cylinders at Rs. 500. He said that 50 percent representation has been ensured for women in Panchayati Raj institutions, and 2.34 lakh women have been made Lakhpati Didis. Initiatives such as the Drone Didi scheme, operation of ration depots, Atal Kisan Mazdoor Canteens and Vita centres by women self-help groups, women-led startups reaching 50 percent participation, 131 women cultural centres, and free facilities in higher education all reflect the government’s strong commitment towards women empowerment.

Strong law and order—the foundation of a safe Haryana

The Chief Minister said that strong law and order is the first prerequisite for the progress of any state, and therefore, the safety of life and property of every citizen is the government’s top priority. He said that effective initiatives such as Operation Track Town, Operation Clean and Prahari have created an atmosphere of fear among criminals. Under Operation Hotspot Domination, launched from December 1, more than 2,200 criminals have been arrested, effectively curbing drug trafficking and illegal activities. Additionally, under the Drug-Free Haryana campaign conducted last year, over 6,000 arrests were made and illegal property worth around Rs. 12 crore belonging to drug traffickers was seized, reflecting the government’s firm commitment towards a safe and strong Haryana.

Farmers being made progressive through farmer-friendly policies and innovations

The Chief Minister said that the interests of farmers are the government’s highest priority. He stated that Haryana is the only state in the country where all crops are being procured at Minimum Support Price, under which Rs. 1.64 lakh crore has been directly credited to the accounts of 12 lakh farmers so far. For timely compensation in case of crop damage, the e-Kshatipurti portal has been launched, through which compensation amounting to Rs. 15,448 crore has been provided over the past 11 years. He said that farmers have been given relief by abolishing Abiana, implementing the Agricultural Land Lease Act, and enacting strict laws against spurious fertilizers, seeds and pesticides. Agriculture is being modernized through technologies such as drones, remote sensing, AI-based decision systems and digital farming, which progressive farmers have adopted through structures like net houses and polyhouses.

Gurugram—the city of Guru Dronacharya: a confluence of education and modernity

The Chief Minister said that he was honoured to hoist the National Flag on Republic Day in Gurugram, the city of Guru Dronacharya. Gurugram is a city where the teachings of Guru Dronacharya blend seamlessly with modern technology. The presence of over 250 Fortune-500 companies and a strong startup ecosystem is proof that with the right policies and strong intent, extraordinary achievements are possible. This success of Gurugram as a major hub for IT, BPOs, startups and the automobile industry is the result of the hard work and participation of its citizens, for which the Chief Minister extended heartfelt congratulations to all residents of Gurugram.

On the occasion, the Chief Minister announced an incentive amount of Rs. 11 lakh for the school students who presented cultural performances and also declared a holiday in all schools on January 27. The Chief Minister also honoured the dependents of martyrs and individuals who have made notable contributions in various fields.

Various winners who participated in the event honoured

At the closing ceremony, prizes were awarded by the Chief Minister for the march-past parade and cultural programmes. In the march-past parade, the Women Police contingent from Madhuban, Gurugram Police (men), and NCC (Girls) contingents were honoured. Under the cultural programmes, the Haryanvi folk dance presented by Government Model Sanskriti Senior Secondary School, Sushant Lok Sector-43; the Rajasthani folk dance presented by Government Model Senior Secondary School, Sector-4/7; and the Shivleela presented by Government Model Senior Secondary School, Arjun Nagar were awarded. Among the departmental tableaux, Traffic Police Gurugram, District Horticulture Department, and the Women and Child Development Department secured first, second and third positions respectively, and were awarded by the Chief Minister.

Present on the occasion were Gurugram Deputy Commissioner Ajay Kumar, Police Commissioner Vikas Kumar Arora, District and Sessions Judge Vani Gopal Sharma, ADGP Law and Order Sanjay Singh, ADGP CID Saurabh Singh, Chief Minister’s Media Advisor Rajeev Jaitly, Additional Director, Information, Public Relations and Languages Department, Haryana, Ranbir Sangwan, along with other dignitaries.

Chandigarh, January 26

On the occasion of the 77th Republic Day, an ‘At Home’ programme was organised at Haryana Lok Bhawan on Monday. Haryana Governor Prof. Ashim Kumar Ghosh and Chief Minister Sh. Nayab Singh Saini attended the programme and extended Republic Day greetings to the people of the state. Haryana’s First Lady Smt. Mitra Ghosh and the Chief Minister’s wife Smt. Suman Saini were also present on the occasion.

The ‘At Home’ programme commenced with the rendition of the National Anthem. Patriotic songs were played during the programme, and it concluded with the National Song.

On this occasion, Speaker of the Haryana Vidhan Sabha Sh. Harvinder Kalyan, Energy Minister Sh. Anil Vij, Education Minister Sh. Mahipal Dhanda, Cooperation Minister Dr. Arvind Sharma, and Member of Parliament Sh. Naveen Jindal were also present.

Besides them, former Army Chief Sh. V.P. Malik; senior IAS officers Sh. Vineet Garg, Sh. A.K. Singh, Sh. Anurag Agarwal, Sh. Vijayendra Kumar, Sh. Pankaj Aggarwal, Sh. Mohammed Shayin, Dr. Amit Kumar Agrawal; UT Chandigarh Chief Secretary Sh. H. Rajesh Prasad; Smt. Ashima Brar; Chandigarh Home Secretary Sh. Mandeep Singh Brar; Dr. Saket Kumar; Secretary to the Governor Sh. D.K. Behera; Sh. Aditya Dahiya; Sh. Vinay Pratap Singh; Smt. Priyanka Soni; Dr. Shaleen; Deputy Commissioner, Panchkula, Sh. Satpal Sharma; along with other officers and IPS officers were present.

Also present were Vice-Chancellor of Dada Lakhmi Chand State University of Performing and Visual Arts, Rohtak, Dr. Amit Arya, and Vice-Chancellor of Chaudhary Charan Singh Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar, Sh. B.R. Kamboj.

Chandigarh January 25, 2026:

The Punjab Vigilance Bureau (VB) during its ongoing drive against the corruption in the state, has apprehended Head Constable Ramesh Kumar, posted at CIA Khanna, red-handed while accepting a bribe of Rs. 5 lakh 20 thousand.

Disclosing this here today, an official spokesperson of the state VB said the above-mentioned accused has been arrested based on a complaint lodged by a resident of Master Colony Khanna, district Ludhiana.

He said that the complainant  is engaged in the business of property dealing and  complained that  accused Head Constable Ramesh Kumar met him and alleged that the complainant was involved in gambling activities. Accused told the complainant that Narpinderpal Singh, CIA In-charge Khanna, had called him.  The complainant stated that he was not involved in any such work, he was forced to contact the CIA In-charge.

The spokesperson added that the complainant went to the office and met CIA In-charge Narpinderpal Singh, who accused the complainant of engaging in betting and illegal lottery activities and demanded Rs. 5 lakh through Head Constable Ramesh Kumar. He also threatened to arrest the complainant after registering a false case against him.

Furthermore, he said that the complainant, under compulsion, arranged Rs. 2,20,000/- and attempted to give it to Ramesh Kumar at the house of his acquaintance Dinesh Kumar at Khanna, but the money was returned with the statement that the entire amount of Rs. 5 lakh was required.

Thereafter, during a conversation with Head Constable Ramesh Kumar, the bribe amount was increased from Rs. 5 lakh to Rs. 5 lakh 20 thousand. The complainant did not want to pay the bribe, due to which he contacted the Vigilance Bureau Unit, Hoshiarpur. Subsequently, a case was registered against Narpinderpal Singh, In-charge CIA Khanna and Head Constable Ramesh Kumar.

After a preliminary enquiry on his complaint, the VB team laid a trap during which the accused was arrested red handed while accepting  bribe money of Rs 5.2 lakh from the complainant in presence of two official witnesses.

The Vigilance Bureau has formed various teams and is conducting raids at the residence and other locations of Narpinderpal Singh, In-charge CIA Khanna, to arrest him soon.

In this regard, a case under prevention of corruption act has been registered against the accused at VB police station Ludhiana and further investigation into this case is under progress.

Chandigarh:

Punjab Health and Family Welfare Minister Dr. Balbir Singh today led the registration drive under Mukh Mantri Sehat Yojana at the Civil Hospital in Rajpura, district Patiala, while Transport and Jail Minister S. Laljit Singh Bhullar spearheaded the campaign in Patti town and several surrounding villages. The ministers interacted with residents and informed them about the benefits of the Mukh Mantri Sehat Yojana, under which free treatment up to Rs.10 lakh is being provided. They also explained the complete procedure of making health cards in simple and clear terms.

Dr. Balbir Singh said that this landmark health scheme has been implemented across Punjab from January 22. He informed that around 65 lakh families are being covered under the scheme, benefiting nearly three crore people who will be entitled to free medical treatment up to Rs.10 lakh. He said the Mukh Mantri Sehat Yojana card marks a new beginning and will act as a turning point in strengthening Punjab’s public healthcare system.

The Health Minister informed that no fee is being charged for the issuance of the health card under the scheme. The Mann government has already paid the insurance amount to the insurance company, ensuring that citizens can access advanced healthcare services without any financial burden, said the Cabinet Minister, adding that treatment under the scheme will be available in government hospitals as well as empanelled private hospitals.

Transport and Jail Minister S. Laljit Singh Bhullar said that every family in the state will now be entitled to free treatment up to Rs.10 lakh and economically weaker sections will be able to receive treatment in private hospitals as well.

“This scheme has been designed to ensure that no citizen of Punjab is deprived of quality healthcare due to financial constraints”, he added.

S. Laljit Singh Bhullar further said that all medicines and diagnostic tests will be provided free of cost under the scheme. He informed that specialised treatment facilities will be available in orthopaedics, general medicine, cardiology, neurology, nephrology, urology, oncology and other advanced medical disciplines. He said, the entire cost of hospital treatment along with diagnostic services has been fully covered, adding that this historic initiative of Chief Minister S. Bhagwant Singh Mann-led Punjab Government will play a crucial role in providing quality and free medical services to the people of the state.

Chandigarh January 25, 2026:

The Punjab Vigilance Bureau (VB) during its ongoing drive against the corruption in the state, has apprehended Head Constable Ramesh Kumar, posted at CIA Khanna, red-handed while accepting a bribe of Rs. 5 lakh 20 thousand.

Disclosing this here today, an official spokesperson of the state VB said the above-mentioned accused has been arrested based on a complaint lodged by a resident of Master Colony Khanna, district Ludhiana.

He said that the complainant  is engaged in the business of property dealing and  complained that  accused Head Constable Ramesh Kumar met him and alleged that the complainant was involved in gambling activities. Accused told the complainant that Narpinderpal Singh, CIA In-charge Khanna, had called him.  The complainant stated that he was not involved in any such work, he was forced to contact the CIA In-charge.

The spokesperson added that the complainant went to the office and met CIA In-charge Narpinderpal Singh, who accused the complainant of engaging in betting and illegal lottery activities and demanded Rs. 5 lakh through Head Constable Ramesh Kumar. He also threatened to arrest the complainant after registering a false case against him.

Furthermore, he said that the complainant, under compulsion, arranged Rs. 2,20,000/- and attempted to give it to Ramesh Kumar at the house of his acquaintance Dinesh Kumar at Khanna, but the money was returned with the statement that the entire amount of Rs. 5 lakh was required.

Thereafter, during a conversation with Head Constable Ramesh Kumar, the bribe amount was increased from Rs. 5 lakh to Rs. 5 lakh 20 thousand. The complainant did not want to pay the bribe, due to which he contacted the Vigilance Bureau Unit, Hoshiarpur. Subsequently, a case was registered against Narpinderpal Singh, In-charge CIA Khanna and Head Constable Ramesh Kumar.

After a preliminary enquiry on his complaint, the VB team laid a trap during which the accused was arrested red handed while accepting  bribe money of Rs 5.2 lakh from the complainant in presence of two official witnesses.

The Vigilance Bureau has formed various teams and is conducting raids at the residence and other locations of Narpinderpal Singh, In-charge CIA Khanna, to arrest him soon.

In this regard, a case under prevention of corruption act has been registered against the accused at VB police station Ludhiana and further investigation into this case is under progress.