Chandigarh, April 18 – In view of the shortage of bitumen and its rising prices due to the ongoing war in the Middle East, Haryana Chief Minister Sh. Nayab Singh Saini has approved the use of imported bitumen for the next six months to ensure that road construction and maintenance works are not affected.

The Chief Minister was chairing a review meeting of departments related to road construction and maintenance at the Haryana Civil Secretariat today. He reviewed the progress of road construction works undertaken during the financial year 2025–26 and discussed targets for the financial year 2026–27, issuing necessary directions to the officials.

During the meeting, a detailed review was conducted of road-related works being carried out by departments including PWD (B&R), Haryana State Agricultural Marketing Board, Zila Parishad/Panchayati Raj, Haryana Urban Development Authority, HSIIDC, Urban Local Bodies, and agencies such as PMDA, GMDA and SMDA.

Officials informed the Chief Minister that while the price of bitumen was ₹46,402 per metric tonne on February 28, it rose sharply to ₹76,152 per metric tonne on April 1. Additionally, IOCL has indicated that the supply of bitumen has been impacted by nearly 50 percent. In such circumstances, the Central Government has permitted the use of imported bitumen. Acting on this, the Chief Minister approved its use in Haryana for six months so that road construction and repair works continue uninterrupted.

The Chief Minister stated that well-maintained roads are essential for public convenience and directed all concerned departments to ensure prompt filling of potholes and undertake repair works using patchwork machines across all districts. He noted that while PWD (B&R) is already using such machines, other departments may coordinate with PWD to utilize them effectively. He emphasized that inconvenience caused to the public due to damaged roads will not be tolerated and directed all departments to submit monthly progress reports regularly.

Sh. Nayab Singh Saini further directed that all complaints regarding damaged roads received on the ‘Mhari Sadak’ mobile app be addressed on priority. He instructed that in cases where maintenance responsibility lies with the construction agency, the concerned companies must be directed to carry out repair works at the earliest.

The Chief Minister also stressed that the targets set for road construction in the financial year 2025–26 should be achieved promptly so that the targets for 2026–27 are met on time. He informed that a target of constructing and repairing 63,170 kilometres of roads has been set for the current financial year through various departments. He further directed that in case of any technical issues in granting administrative approval for roads under Zila Parishads, the concerned Deputy Commissioners should be authorized to approve them.

Sh. Nayab Singh Saini observed that there is often variation in the quality of road construction across departments and directed all departments to adhere to the standards prescribed by PWD (B&R). He also instructed that all ongoing construction and repair works be completed before the onset of the monsoon.

Directing immediate repair of damaged roads in urban sectors, the Chief Minister said that ambiguity regarding departmental responsibility for roads in urban areas must be removed. He instructed the formation of a committee of officials to address this issue effectively. He also advised the development of select smart roads in urban areas to enhance both city aesthetics and public convenience.

Haryana Chief Secretary Sh. Anurag Rastogi, Principal Secretary to Chief Minister Sh. Arun Kumar Gupta, Additional Chief Secretaries Sh. Anurag Agarwal, Sh. A.K. Singh, Sh. Vijayendra Kumar, and with other senior officials were present in the meeting.

Chandigarh, April 18 – To promote the ongoing self-enumeration process under Census-2027, Haryana’s Industries and Commerce Minister Rao Narbir Singh completed his self-enumeration online in Gurugram by entering his details on the official portal. He also encouraged citizens to make use of this facility.

He stated that the self-enumeration system provides a simple and convenient option for citizens to fill in their information from home. It not only saves time but also ensures transparency as the data is directly entered into the system.

He further said that every household should complete this process by April 30 so that the census exercise can proceed smoothly.

Sh. Rao Narbir Singh emphasized that the census is not merely a collection of data but a strong foundation for planning the development of the country and the state. Accurate and complete information enables the government to formulate effective policies and schemes.

He appealed to citizens to act responsibly, actively participate in the process, and motivate others to do the same.

The Cabinet Minister informed that citizens can log in to the official portal using mobile number-based OTP verification and fill in all required details in a step-by-step manner. After completing the process, it is important to safely retain the self-enumeration ID generated, which will need to be shown to enumerators later.

Chandigarh, April 18 – Member of the Haryana Staff Selection Commission, Sh. Bhupender Chauhan, addressed a press conference in Panchkula today and shared detailed information regarding the arrangements for the Physical Measurement Test (PMT). He informed that the test will be conducted at the Tau Devi Lal Stadium.

Sh. Bhupender Chauhan stated that the PMT will commence at 6:30 AM. Initially, around 700 candidates will be called daily, which will later be increased to 1,500 candidates per day. He clarified that the Commission plans to call 1,500 to 2,000 candidates daily, and if required, this number may be increased up to 3,000 candidates per day. The entire process is expected to take approximately 60 to 80 days.

The Commission has made arrangements for a waiting and rest area near the stadium gate for candidates and their accompanying family members. Facilities for baggage deposit have also been provided. After entry into the stadium, candidates will undergo strict checking followed by document verification. Subsequently, biometric authentication will be carried out, and candidates will be assigned a serial number before being sent to the main hall. At the entrance of the main hall, chest numbers will be allotted and biometric verification will be conducted again.

After completing all formalities, candidates will undergo measurement in the main hall where 21 modern digital machines have been installed to measure height and chest parameters. In case any candidate is not satisfied with the measurement, they can immediately file an appeal and undergo re-measurement.

Special arrangements have also been made for Sikh candidates, wherein their measurement will be conducted in accordance with religious norms by representatives of the Sikh community on designated machines. Additionally, special buses will operate from Zirakpur starting at 5:00 AM to facilitate transportation of candidates to the stadium.

Sh. Bhupender Chauhan appealed to candidates to refrain from consuming any kind of energy boosters or medication before the PMT, as it may be harmful to their health. Special arrangements are also being made for pregnant women and other female candidates. He assured that the Commission is committed to conducting the entire process in a transparent and candidate-friendly manner.

Chandigarh, April 18 – Haryana State Election Commissioner Sh. Devinder Singh Kalyan has directed strict enforcement of the Haryana Prevention of Defacement of Property Act, 1989, in view of the Model Code of Conduct in force for Municipal and Panchayati Raj Institution elections.

He stated that it has come to the notice of the Commission that several candidates and political parties are illegally putting up posters and banners on public and private properties and defacing walls with writings, which is a violation of the law and adversely affects the aesthetic appeal of the State.

He clarified that under Sections 3 and 3-A of the Act, defacing any property visible in public places by writing or marking with ink, chalk, paint, or any other material is strictly prohibited. Similarly, putting up posters, banners, or flex boards on government buildings, electric poles, bus stands, public places, or statues, as well as affixing publicity material on public transport, especially State Transport buses, is completely banned. Such acts fall under the category of cognizable offences.

The Commissioner stated that in such cases, the cost incurred in removing illegal publicity material and restoring the property to its original condition will be recovered from the concerned candidate or political party. If such activities are carried out in favour of a candidate, the candidate will be held responsible unless they can prove that it was done without their knowledge or consent.

He directed that candidates should display publicity material only at designated locations identified by Executive Officers/Secretaries in urban areas and BDPOs/Panchayat Officers in rural areas. Property owners who have not permitted advertisements on their walls may lodge complaints with the concerned observer or Deputy Commissioner.

The Commission has instructed the local administration to ensure that any illegal material is removed within 24 hours of receiving a complaint.

Sh. Devinder Singh Kalyan emphasized that while participation in democracy is essential, it should not come at the cost of damage to public property. He appealed to all candidates to follow the Model Code of Conduct and cooperate in ensuring clean and fair elections. Flying squads have also been authorized to take immediate action in such cases.

For any complaints, citizens may contact the Deputy Commissioner, Municipal Commissioner, Returning Officer, or any other authorized officer.

Chandigarh, April 18 – Haryana Chief Minister Sh. Nayab Singh Saini has issued strict directions to ensure transparency and accountability in the ESI healthcare system, stating that negligence or corruption at any level will not be tolerated.

The Chief Minister was chairing a review meeting of ESI Healthcare Haryana at the Haryana Civil Secretariat on Saturday.

Expressing serious concern over issues related to the ESI Hospital in Panipat, the Chief Minister directed officials to immediately initiate action to de-panel six private hospitals. Acting on these directions, the department has issued notices to the concerned hospitals.

These hospitals were found to have made excessive referrals during the period 2020–21 to 2023–24, and discrepancies were detected in doctors’ signatures on referral forms. In connection with the case, three employees of the Panipat ESI Hospital have been suspended with immediate effect. Additionally, disciplinary proceedings have been initiated against five Medical Superintendents.

The Chief Minister directed that the Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) be entrusted with conducting a fair and thorough investigation into the matter. He further instructed that records of 133 other private hospitals empanelled under ESI across the state be examined by the ACB to detect any irregularities in a timely manner.

He also directed officials to enhance the capacity of the Panipat ESI Hospital from 75 beds to 100 beds and to expand its operation theatre. Similarly, directions were issued to upgrade the Jagadhri ESI Hospital from 80 to 100 beds and to increase the capacity of the Hisar ESI dispensary from 12 to 50 beds. He emphasized that all hospitals should be equipped with modern medical technology.

The Chief Minister instructed that the construction of two 100-bedded ESI hospitals in Bawal and Bahadurgarh be completed at the earliest, stating that these facilities will significantly improve healthcare services for workers and the general public. He further stated that there should be no shortage of doctors and paramedical staff in the ESI healthcare system and directed that recruitment processes be expedited as required.

Reiterating the government’s commitment, the Chief Minister said that transparency, accountability, and quality healthcare services remain top priorities, and any laxity in this regard will not be tolerated.

Haryana Chief Secretary Sh. Anurag Rastogi, Principal Secretary, Labour Department, Sh. Rajiv Ranjan, and other senior officials were present in the meeting.

Chandigarh, April 18 – The Haryana Government will launch an e-auction portal to enable farmers to sell agroforestry trees grown on their fields, such as eucalyptus and poplar, through the Haryana Forest Development Corporation (HFDC). This initiative is expected to help farmers secure better prices by eliminating intermediaries. The decision was taken in the 146th meeting of the Board of Directors of HFDC.

The meeting was chaired by Sudhir Rajpal, Additional Chief Secretary, Forest Department and Chairman of HFDC.

During the meeting, Principal Chief Conservator of Forests and Managing Director, K. C. Meena, presented the proposal. As per the plan, farmers willing to use the HFDC e-auction portal will submit an application to the concerned General Manager. Subsequently, field offices of the Corporation will assess and mark the standing trees and determine a reserve price based on their volume. Farmers will also have the option to set their own reserve price.

The tree volume details will then be uploaded on the e-auction portal. After the auction, the bid amount will be communicated to the farmer, and if the farmer agrees to the price, HFDC will charge only a 5 percent service fee. The remaining amount will be transferred directly to the farmer’s bank account through online mode. The scheme will also be open to institutions, for which a service fee of 10 percent will be applicable.

Sh. Sudhir Rajpal stated that the objective of the government is to ensure that farmers receive the maximum value for their produce. Through this e-auction system, farmers and institutions are expected to benefit from better price discovery, elimination of middlemen, increased transparency, and access to a wider pool of buyers. He added that HFDC has framed comprehensive rules to safeguard the financial interests of farmers and institutions.

He further said that this system is likely to increase farmers’ income by up to 25 percent.

Chandigarh, April 18 – Haryana Chief Minister Sh. Nayab Singh Saini today chaired a high-level PRAGATI review meeting to assess the progress of major ongoing development projects costing over ₹75 crore each across the state. Emphasizing timely execution, the Chief Minister directed all departments to expedite work and resolve bottlenecks on priority.

During the review, the Chief Minister took stock of key projects in urban development, health infrastructure, tourism, archaeology, and emergency services.

Reviewing the ₹217 crore Augmentation Scheme for Master Water Supply in Faridabad, which involves the installation of 12 Ranney Wells along the Yamuna river floodplains, the Chief Minister was informed that overall physical progress has reached 67 percent. Two Ranney Wells have already been completed and work is progressing on the remaining sites in a phased manner. Sh. Nayab Singh Saini directed officials to adhere strictly to the revised timelines and ensure expeditious completion of all components of the project. He also sought detailed inputs on water quality parameters and emphasized that the project must deliver safe and clean drinking water.

Regarding road infrastructure, the Chief Minister instructed the HSVP to expedite the construction of the 120-meter wide road from Bye-Pass Road to NH-8 in Rewari, which is currently at 65% physical progress. On the proposed World-Class Shooting Range in Panchkula, the Chief Minister was informed that tender negotiations have been completed and allotment will be finalized soon. He directed officials to ensure early commencement of work. The Chief Minister also reviewed the Integrated Aqua Park Centre of Excellence in Bhiwani and was informed that the construction will begin shortly following tender approvals. The foundation stone for the project has already been laid.

Focusing on strengthening healthcare infrastructure as a top priority, the Chief Minister reviewed the progress of multiple hospital projects across the State. These included the 200-bedded hospital at Fatehabad, the 100-bedded hospital at Tohana, the upgradation of Civil Hospital in Gurugram from 100 to 200 beds, and the establishment of a Critical Care Block at Ambala Cantt. He directed the officials to ensure that there is no compromise on construction quality and medical infrastructure standards.

In the cultural sector, the progress of key heritage projects was reviewed in detail. The Chief Minister was informed that the Rakhigarhi Site Museum is nearing completion, with around 80% of the civil work already completed, and is expected to be ready for inauguration shortly. Emphasizing the importance of heritage awareness, the Chief Minister directed that special educational visits be organized for school students so they can gain first-hand exposure to the state’s rich historical legacy and develop a deeper understanding of India’s ancient civilisation.

Sh. Nayab Singh Saini also reviewed the progress of the Sikh Museum and the Guru Ravidas Bhawan and Museum. He instructed the concerned departments to fast-track all pending administrative approvals, finalize architectural and design components at the earliest, and ensure adherence to timelines. He said these institutions should be developed as world-class centres reflecting the state’s cultural and spiritual heritage.

In addition, the Chief Minister reviewed procurement-related projects under the Fire and Emergency Services Department, including foam tenders and high-rise turntable ladders. He directed officials to complete all procedural requirements swiftly and ensure that modern firefighting infrastructure is made available at the earliest.

Haryana Chief Secretary, Sh. Anurag Rastogi, Principal Secretary to Chief Minister, Sh. Arun Kumar Gupta, Additional Chief Secretary, Health & Family Welfare, Dr. Sumita Misra, Additional Chief Secretary, PW (B&R), Sh. Apoorva Kumar Singh, Additional Chief Secretary, Town & Country Planning, Sh. Anurag Agarwal, Commissioner & Secretary, Heritage & Tourism Department, Dr. Amit Kumar Agrawal and other senior officers were present in the meeting.

Chandigarh:

Healing Hospital, Chandigarh has announced the launch of Adaptive Deep Brain Stimulation (aDBS), an advanced therapy for Parkinson’s disease. With this development, the hospital becomes the first centre in Tricity and among a limited number of centres in India to offer this next-generation treatment. Adaptive DBS represents a significant advancement over conventional DBS. While traditional systems deliver continuous stimulation, adaptive DBS uses real-time brain signal monitoring to automatically adjust stimulation levels—offering a more precise and personalized approach to Parkinson’s treatment.

This milestone builds on the hospital’s established expertise in Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) surgery, with multiple successful procedures performed for patients across North India. Healing Hospital has emerged as a trusted referral centre for neurology and neurosurgery, managing complex brain and spine conditions across the region.

“Patients with Parkinson’s often experience fluctuations throughout the day. With adaptive DBS, we aim to improve stability and reduce these variations, leading to better day-to-day functioning,” said Dr. J.P. Singhvi, Neurologist, Healing Hospital Chandigarh.

Dr. Singhvi added that in simple terms, the procedure involves implanting a small device (similar to a pacemaker) that sends controlled electrical signals to specific areas of the brain, helping regulate abnormal activity and improve movement-related symptoms.

“Deep Brain Stimulation has already transformed the management of advanced Parkinson’s disease. Adaptive DBS further refines this by making therapy responsive to the patient’s brain activity in real time,” said Dr. Jaspreet Randhawa, Neurosurgeon, Healing Hospital Chandigarh.

Commenting on the development, Mr. Sahibjit Singh Sandhu and Mr. Drishmeet Singh Buttar, Managing Partners, Healing Hospital Chandigarh, said:
“This advancement reflects our continued focus on bringing cutting-edge medical technologies to North India. Our goal is to ensure that patients in the region have access to globally aligned, advanced treatment options without the need to travel far. Adaptive DBS is an important step in strengthening our neurosciences programme.”

Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) is a well-established treatment, with meaningful improvement seen in approximately 70–80% of appropriately selected patients. Adaptive DBS builds on this by aiming to further improve symptom consistency, reduce fluctuations, and enhance overall quality of life.

Patients typically require a hospital stay of 2–4 days and are able to resume routine activities within 1–2 weeks, with further programming and optimization carried out over time.

Adaptive DBS at Healing Hospital is enabled through advanced, sensing-enabled neurostimulation technology developed by Medtronic, a global leader in medical devices. With this development, Healing Hospital joins a select group of centres in India offering Adaptive DBS, alongside leading institutions such as Medanta – The Medicity and Apollo Hospitals Chennai.

Parkinson’s disease is a progressive neurological disorder that affects movement, coordination, and quality of life. Patients with long-standing disease, medication-related complications, or motor fluctuations may benefit from advanced therapies such as DBS surgery.

With the introduction of Adaptive DBS, Healing Hospital Chandigarh further strengthens its position as a centre for advanced Parkinson’s treatment and brain stimulation therapies in North India, bringing global-standard care closer to patients in the region.

Healing Hospital Chandigarh is a NABH-accredited and one of the largest private healthcare institutions in the region, known for its clinical excellence, rapid growth, and strong focus on advanced medical technologies. The hospital offers 25+ specialties and caters to patients from across Punjab, Haryana, Himachal Pradesh, and beyond.

The hospital is particularly recognized for its expertise in neurology, neurosurgery, spine surgery, and minimally invasive procedures, supported by modern infrastructure and an experienced clinical team. Driven by a vision to deliver global-standard healthcare, Healing Hospital continues to integrate advanced technologies with patient-centric care to improve outcomes and accessibility.

Chandigarh, April 15, 2026

A Fire Safety Training Workshop was organised at Civil Hospital Sector 45 Chandigarh. A live demonstration on the proper use of fire extinguishers and fire hydrants was conducted during the session.

The workshop was jointly organised by Fire Station Sector 32 Chandigarh, and the Fire Awareness & Safety Association (FASA) as part of the series of events held to mark Fire Service Week 2026.

Jasjyot Singh Almast, Founder President, FASA, stated that fire safety is not just a compliance requirement but a collective responsibility. “Through this workshop, our aim is to equip citizens, volunteers, and institutional staff with practical knowledge of fire prevention, evacuation procedures and the correct use of firefighting equipment,” he said.

Sub Fire Officer Jasmit Singh urged all participants to take a pledge to make fire safety a habit, not an afterthought. He added that a few minutes of training today can save lives tomorrow. Mange Ram and Joginder Singh Leading Firemen demonstrated the use of Fire extinguishers with the assistance of Fireman Nitin.

Dr Anjali Gupta, Senior Medical Officer, Incharge and Dr Shefali Nodal Officer Fire, Civil Hospital Sector  45 Chandigarh in a joint statement said that their institution remains committed to building a safer community through awareness, training and collaboration