Category Archives: Chandigarh

HERC Reconstitutes Consumer Advocacy Cell to Strengthen Electricity Consumers’ Rights in Haryana

Chandigarh, March 29- The Haryana Electricity Regulatory Commission (HERC) has reconstituted its Consumer Advocacy Cell (CAC) to bolster the rights of electricity consumers across the state. Spearheaded by HERC Chairman Nand Lal Sharma, this initiative replaces the previous cell, established in 2018, with a revamped framework aimed at strengthening consumer rights, streamlining grievance redressal, and ensuring compliance with regulatory directives.

The restructured CAC will be chaired by HERC Member (Law) Mukesh Garg. Its members include Electricity Ombudsman R.K. Khanna, Joint Director (Law) Aloka Sharma, a representative from the Technical Section, the Chief Engineer of the concerned DISCOM zone, and Deputy Director (Media) Pradeep Malik, who will also serve as Member and Coordinator.

The CAC’s primary objective is to educate consumers about their rights and the role of the Consumer Grievance Redressal Forum (CGRF). It will monitor compliance with CGRF and Ombudsman orders, address billing disputes, promote energy conservation and safety, and ensure adherence to Section 57 of the Electricity Act, 2003, which sets performance standards for distribution licensees (DISCOMs). The cell will also analyze grievance patterns, propose policy interventions, and offer recommendations through periodic review meetings.

HERC Secretary Jaiprakash reaffirmed the commission’s commitment to consumer welfare, stating, “Chairman Nand Lal Sharma has emphasized that the core objective of the Electricity Act, 2003 is to protect the rights of electricity consumers. This initiative reflects our dedication to ensuring that consumers are well-informed and empowered.”

The reconstitution of the CAC marks a pivotal milestone in advancing consumer advocacy within Haryana’s power sector, underscoring HERC’s resolve to safeguard the interests of electricity users across the state.

Strict monitoring to prevent illegal mining in Faridabad, administration on high alert 

Chandigarh, March 29: The Haryana government is continuously conducting strict campaigns to keep illegal mining under control. A joint team from the mining department and other related departments carried out a surprise inspection in areas linked to Crusher Zone Pali in Faridabad and checked the vehicles. 

Sharing information in regard, an official spokesperson from the mining department said that, following the directions of Chief Minister, Sh. Nayab Singh Saini, Director General, Mining and Geology Department, Sh. K. M Pandurang, is personally overseeing departmental activities and issuing necessary guidelines. The main goal of the government is to make the mining process transparent and eliminate illegal mining. As per the Director General’s directions, the departmental team is diligently performing its duties while keeping a close eye on all necessary aspects. 

During the inspection, all vehicles were found to have valid e-Ravana bills. No illegal mining activities were detected during the checks. The spokesperson stated that if any violations are found, the mining department team will take immediate action. The team remains actively stationed on national highways, state roads, and other major routes. Special monitoring is being conducted in areas where there is a high possibility of illegal mining. Surprise inspections are being carried out in various parts of the district, and strict measures are being taken against culprits. The Haryana government has made it clear that illegal mining will not be tolerated under any circumstances, and strict legal action will be taken against those involved.

Man trapped after being sent to Dubai on false job promise; Energy and Transport Minister Anil Vij directs police to take action

Chandigarh, March 29 – Haryana Energy, Transport and Labour Minister, Sh. Anil Vij listened to the grievances of people from different areas of Ambala Cantonment at his residence today and issued directions to the concerned officers for necessary action.

A woman from Khatik Mandi in Ambala Cantonment approached Cabinet Minister, Sh. Anil Vij with a complaint stating that her son had been sent to Dubai by two agents on the false promise of a good job. However, after reaching Dubai, he was forced to do labor work, which severely affected his health. The woman alleged that the agents had taken possession of her son’s passport and other documents. When she tried to contact them, they demanded Rs.1.5 lakh, which she paid, but despite this, her son was not allowed to return. She requested strict action against the accused. Cabinet Minister. Sh. Anil Vij directed the IG of Ambala to investigate the matter.

Women from Topkhana Parade requested Energy and Transport Minister, Sh. Anil Vij that their houses were connected by an unpaved road, causing significant difficulties, especially during the rainy season, in accessing the main road. Sh.Anil Vij directed the concerned department officers to take action.

A resident of Ambala Cantonment complained that despite a court order, action had not been taken for the registration of his plot, alleging police inaction in the matter. Similarly, a college student reported that she was unable to obtain a new bus pass from the Roadways after losing her original pass. Transport Minister, Sh.Anil Vij directed the GM of Roadways to address the issue. Additionally, issues related to electricity supply were also brought to the attention of Minister Sh. Anil Vij, who immediately directed the electricity department officers present at the spot to take necessary action. Various other departmental concerns were also heard by the minister, who directed officers to resolve it. Several BJP leaders and officers from various departments were also present on this occasion.

Haryana Health Minister holds meeting with officers in Narnaul 

Chandigarh, March 29- Haryana Health Minister, Kumari Arti Singh Rao said that under the leadership of Chief Minister, Sh. Nayab Singh Saini, the state government is committed to providing better services to the public in a fair and transparent manner. 

            Kumari Arti Singh Rao said this while addressing a meeting of officers in Narnaul. 

            She congratulated the Health Department and the District Administration for successfully making 128 Gram Panchayats of Mahendragarh district TB-free. The Health Minister expressed confidence that, by working together they will fulfill the resolution of Prime Minister, Sh. Narendra Modi of a TB-free India by 2025 ahead of schedule.While there has been significant improvement in the sex ratio in Mahendragarh district, there is still work to be done, she added. 

            She further directed the officers to report any pending issues related to the construction of the new Civil Hospital building and Trauma Center in Mahendragarh to the headquarters, so that these projects can be completed on time.

            Kumari Arti Singh Rao also said to prioritise agricultural electricity connections to ensure that farmers do not face any difficulties. She directed that any issued work orders for connections should be executed immediately. 

            MLA, Narnaul, Sh. Om Prakash Yadav,  MLA Mahendragarh, Sh. Kanwar Singh Yadav, Superintendent of Police, Ms. Pooja Vashisth, Additional Deputy Commissioner, Dr. Anand Kumar Sharma and other officers also remained present during the meeting.

Mining activities in the district are being conducted transparently

Chandigarh, March 29 – Following the directions of Haryana Chief Minister, Sh. Nayab Singh Saini, strict monitoring of mining activities is being carried out in Mahendragarh district with the support of the police. The district administration is continuously taking action against illegal mining and the unauthorised transportation of minerals. In the past three days, a joint team from the district administration and headquarters inspected around 250 vehicles. During the inspection, a tractor-trolley and a dumper transporting gravel and sand illegally from Rajasthan were seized. A fine of Rs. 6.35 lakh has been imposed on both vehicles.

            Sharing information in this regard a spokesperson from the Mining Department said that the government and district administration are ensuring complete transparency in mining operations. The spokesperson said that illegal mining or the unauthorised transportation of minerals will not be tolerated under any circumstances.

            The spokesperson further said that the mining department conducted inspections for illegal mining of stones and gravel in various areas such as Sohla, Bayal, Ropar Sarai, Jainpur, Mosampur, and Bakrija in the Aravalli hills. No illegal mining was found, except for some old mining pits. Besides this, the team inspected operational mines in the district and found no unauthorised encroachment around them.

Oath-taking ceremony of Rohtak Municipal Corporation Mayor and Councillors organized

Chandigarh, March 29- Haryana Development and Panchayat Minister, Sh. Krishan Lal Panwar, Cooperation Minister, Dr. Arvind Sharma and  MP, Rajya Sabha, Sh. Ram Chander Jangra attended the Oath- Taking ceremony of the newly elected Municipal Corporation Mayor and councillors of the Rohtak district today. They congratulated all the newly elected members. After the event, the dignitaries visited the Municipal Corporation office, where Mayor Sh. Ram Avtar Valmiki formally took charge. 

            Development and Panchayat Minister, Sh. Krishan Lal Panwar congratulated the newly elected Municipal Corporation Mayor and councillors and said that under the leadership of Prime Minister, Sh. Narendra Modi  the BJP government has been re-elected for the third time at both the central and state levels, achieving victories in various elections. He also said that the Chief Minister, Sh. Nayab Singh Saini, who also holds the portfolio of Finance Minister, set a record by delivering the longest budget speech during the budget session, ensuring that the new budget brings benefits to all 36 communities without introducing any new taxes.

            Sh. Panwar further said that the government has decided to regularise houses built on 500 square yards of village common land that are over 20 years old. The central and state governments are committed to providing a roof over every poor family’s head. In urban areas, eligible families will receive a 30-square-yard plot and financial assistance of Rs. 2.5 lakh for house construction. In large village panchayats, a 50-square-yard plot will be given, while in Mahagram Panchayats, a 100-square-yard plot will be provided. Besides this, financial assistance for house construction will be given under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana.

            Haryana will play a major role in PM Modi’s vision of a developed India: Cooperation Minister Dr. Arvind Sharma

            Cooperation and Heritage and Tourism Minister, Dr. Arvind Sharma said that Prime Minister, Sh. Narendra Modi aims to make India a developed nation by 2047, and Haryana, under the leadership of Chief Minister, Sh. Nayab Singh Saini, will significantly contribute to this mission. He said that the victory in municipal elections is a testament to the strong leadership of the Prime Minister and the Chief Minister.

            Dr. Sharma further said that the government is working for the welfare of all sections of society and through the budget, every section has ensured their rights. 

            MP, Rajya Sabha, Sh. Ram Chander Jangra, Former Minister, Sh. Om Prakash Dhankar and Former Minister, Sh. Manish Grover also said the Municipal Corporation team to work at three times the speed to take Rohtak forward on the path of development.

CM honoured by Saini Samaj in Chomu, Rajasthan

Chandigarh, March 29 – Haryana Chief Minister, Sh. Nayab Singh Saini attended a grand Nagrik Abhinandan and Holi Milan Samaroh organised by the Saini Samaj in Chomu, Rajasthan, as the chief guest on Saturday. A large number of Saini Samaj members warmly welcomed the Chief Minister and as a mark of respect, the community presented him with a traditional turban, shawl, and a memento. 

            Chief Minister Saini expressed his gratitude, stating that this honour belongs to the people. He acknowledged the strong relationship between Rajasthan and Haryana, referring to the bond as a “Roti-Beti” relationship.

            Cabinet Minister, Rajasthan Sh. Avinash Gehlot and MP, Rajya Sabha, Sh. Rajendra Gehlot were also present during the programme.

            Addressing the gathering, Chief Minister Sh. Nayab Singh Saini said that the Samaroh was not just for Saini Samaj, but a symbol of unity, brotherhood, and harmony. He said that the festival of Holi teaches us to forget differences and come together to promote harmony. 

            The Chief Minister said that today he was present not just as a Chief Minister but as a son and brother among his family. He credited his current position to the blessings of elders, mothers, and the youth, and stated that their love and support keep him connected to the community. Saini Samaj have contributed to social reforms and the freedom struggle. He said that the community has always played a leading role in education, agriculture, and nation-building and continues to excel in various fields.

*Politics is not just about power, but about serving society*

            The Chief Minister said that under the leadership of Prime Minister Sh. Narendra Modi, India is reaching new heights of development and earning respect worldwide. He said that the Prime Minister’s vision is to make India a developed nation by 2047, and everyone should contribute to this vision. He expressed gratitude to the Prime Minister for entrusting him, a farmer’s son, with the responsibility of serving as Haryana’s Chief Minister. 

            He said that politics is not just a means to gain power but a path to serve society, and everyone should work towards the progress of the country and the state. 

*Haryana government moving forward with 36 biradri *

            The Chief Minister said that the Haryana government is working with 36 biradri and, in this third term, aims to accelerate the state’s development threefold. He further said that the government has granted reservation to the backward classes in local bodies, providing 5 percent for the position of Sarpanch and other posts based on population. 

            He appealed to everyone to come together to uplift the community and draw inspiration from past struggles to work for development and unity.

Health Minister Arti Singh Rao unveils statue of martyr Vikas Sharma

Chandigarh, March 29 – Haryana Health Minister Kumari Arti Singh Rao in Saturday unveiled the statue of brave Indian Air Force martyr Vikas Sharma in the village of Rata Khurd, Ateli.

            Speaking on the occasion, the Health Minister said that the unmatched courage and sacrifice of Shaheed Vikas Sharma will always be remembered by the nation. A martyr does not belong to just a village or state but to the entire country. We must always honour the sacrifices of our martyrs.

            Shaheed Vikas Sharma was born on September 17, 2000, in the village of Rata Khurd to a farmer family. In 2019, at the young age of 19, he joined the Indian Air Force. In 2023, while saving his comrade’s life at Amla, Madhya Pradesh, he attained martyrdom.

            Former Minister and MLA, Narnaul, Sh. Om Prakash Yadav, Former Minister, Sh. Ramvilas Sharma, and many other dignitaries and villagers paid tribute to the martyr.

Health Minister Kumari Arti Singh Rao gifts synthetic track to Rewari district worth Rs.9.70 Crore

Chandigarh, March 29 – Haryana Health Minister Kumari Arti Singh Rao has brought yet another gift to Rewari district. Due to her efforts, the approval for a synthetic track at Rao Tularam Stadium in Rewari has been granted. This track will cost around Rs. 9.70 crore. 

            Kumari Arti Singh Rao started working for this 400 meter track of the stadium when she was a social worker. She continued her efforts, and now, as Health Minister, she has successfully secured the synthetic track for the athletes of Rewari district. 

            Expressing gratitude to the Chief Minister, Sh. Nayab Singh Saini and Sports Minister, Sh. Gaurav Gautam for approving the track, Kumari Arti Singh Rao said that the synthetic track will help Rewari athletes refine their skills. She expressed hope that this track will play a significant role in producing great athletes for the country in the future. 

            She also said that this track will especially benefit young people preparing to join the army. The Ahirwal region has always made significant contributions to the Indian Army. During the First War of Independence, under the leadership of Rao Tularam, his army gave a tough fight to the British. Even today, one out of every ten soldiers in the Indian Army is from Haryana, with South Haryana having the highest participation. 

            The Health Minister stated that the synthetic athletic track in Rewari will be a milestone in the field of sports. The Haryana government is focusing on promoting sports, as seen in the recent budget presented by the Finance Minister and Chief Minister, Sh. Nayab Singh Saini. The budget includes initiatives to improve training facilities, increase competition, and maintain high standards. Every year, the top three wrestling arenas at the state level will be awarded Rs. 50 lakh, Rs. 30 lakh, and Rs. 20 lakh, respectively. The number of sports nurseries will also be increased, and more facilities will be provided to athletes. 

            Kumari Arti Singh Rao also congratulated the youth of the region on the approval of the synthetic track at Rao Tularam Stadium and encouraged them to make the best use of it.

PEDA PARTNERS WITH HPCL FOR SETTING UP CBG PROJECT TO BOOST BUDDHA NULLAH CLEANUP

Chandigarh, March 29:

In an environment friendly step to give further impetus to Buddha Nullah cleaning drive, Punjab Government has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with HPCL Renewable & Green Energy Limited (HPRGE)— a wholly owned company of Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Limited for setting up a Compressed Biogas (CBG) project in Ludhiana.

The MoU was signed by CEO Punjab Energy Development Agency (PEDA) Ms. Neelima and CEO (HPRGE) Mr.Mohit Dhawan     in the presence of Mr. Aman Arora, Minister of New and Renewable Energy Sources, Punjab.

Highlighting the significance of this collaboration, Mr. Aman Arora informed that the project will focus on the sustainable management of surplus cattle dung from the Haibowal Dairy Complex in Ludhiana. He further mentioned that the project will process approximately 300 tons of cattle dung daily, producing 6,400 kg of CBG per day. HPCL will then distribute the CBG through their existing CNG outlets for vehicle fuel.

The project is expected to be completed within two years, Mr. Aman Arora said while emphasising that it’s a crucial component of the Buddha Dariya Rejuvenation Project as the project will address the current issue of dung being discharged into Buddha Nullah through the sewerage system.

Principal Secretary for New & Renewable Energy Sources, Mr. Ajoy Kumar Sinha, stated that the project, valued at over Rs. 35 crore, will be implemented under the State NRSE Policy, 2012, on a Build Own & Operate (BOO) basis. He also assured the HPRGE representatives every possible support  including necessary approvals from government side to set up this project.

Director PEDA Mr. MP Singh and other senior officials of the department were also present on the occasion.