Theme: “Autism Beyond the Clinic: Lived Experiences of Families Through a Social Pediatrics Lens”
Chandigarh: The Department of Pediatrics, PGIMER Chandigarh, marked World Autism Awareness Day 2026 with a meaningful and inclusive program, reaffirming the global message “Autism and Humanity – Every Life Has Value.” The event celebrated not just awareness, but the richness of human diversity and the importance of creating a truly neuroinclusive society.
The program was graced by Dr. Sanjay Jain, Dean, PGIMER Chandigarh, as the Guest of Honour, who emphasized the need for early identification, inclusive education, and strengthening support systems for children with autism and their families.
The event brought together a multidisciplinary team including Pediatric Neurologists, Pediatricians, Psychologists, educators, and community stakeholders—highlighting the importance of collaborative care in addressing autism.
Distinguished attendees included Abha Sharma Joshi, President, Rotary Club Chandigarh; representatives from Chandigarh Citizen Foundation (CCF) led by Col (Dr.) Dev; Prof. Ambuj, Government College; Kavita Das, Former Principal, St. John’s High School and currently Director Principal, GD Goenka School, Mohali; Neha, Primary School Teacher; and Geeta, Head of the Special Cell at Bhawan Vidyalaya. The event also saw active participation from members of the Rotaract Club, AIMS Mohali, along with residents, nursing staff, psychology students, parents, and community members.
A key highlight of the program was the “Voices of Autism” Parent & Caregiver Story Circle, where mothers and caregivers shared their lived experiences. Their narratives reflected the realities of navigating multiple therapies, making continuous educational accommodations, and accessing specialized healthcare services. The discussions brought attention to the significant parental stress, often compounded by complex caregiving demands, financial strain, and persistent social stigma.
In a particularly inspiring moment, a young adult with autism—born at PGIMER—shared his journey and achievements. He now runs a YouTube channel, “Cricket Ki Awaaz,” and expressed his willingness to connect, answer queries, and build friendships, symbolizing hope, ability, and inclusion.
Experts emphasized that autism must be understood beyond the clinic, with a focus on inclusive classrooms, supportive families, and compassionate communities that celebrate differences rather than stigmatize them.
The event also featured a cake-cutting ceremony, symbolizing unity, joy, and the celebration of diversity. Participants came together in a spirit of togetherness, reinforcing the message that every individual is unique and valuable.
The Rotaract Club, AIMS Mohali, reaffirmed its commitment to building a neuroinclusive society, pledging continued efforts toward awareness, acceptance, and community engagement.
The program concluded with a collective call to action—to move beyond awareness toward acceptance, inclusion, and celebration of diversity, ensuring that every individual with autism is valued and empowered to thrive.
Chandigarh: Digestive health concerns are rising across India, driven by fast-paced lifestyles, unhealthy dietary habits, and sedentary work routines. Despite the growing prevalence of digestive problems, awareness about serious gastrointestinal diseases such as colorectal cancer remains low.
To better understand how people interpret digestive symptoms and when they seek medical help, Merck Specialities Pvt. Ltd. supported a nationwide perception audit through the Lifestyle & Digestive Health Awareness Survey. The survey assessed how individuals respond to symptoms such as irregular bowel movements, acidity, and blood in stool, while also identifying awareness gaps and behavioural patterns that may delay timely medical consultation and diagnosis.
The findings were shared at a press conference addressed by Dr. Rakesh Kapoor, Prof. and Unit Head, Dept. of Radiotherapy and Oncology, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh; Dr. Jatin Sarin, Director – Medical Oncology, Livasa Hospital, Mohali and Chandigarh Cancer & Diagnostic Center, Sector 33, Chandigarh; and Col. Dr. Gurjeet Singh Chowdhary, Consultant Medical Oncologist at Indus Superspeciality Hospital, Phase-1, Mohali, who emphasised the urgent need for greater awareness and timely medical consultation for digestive health symptoms.
Colorectal cancer is emerging as a growing health concern in India, driven by unhealthy diets, obesity, and low awareness about gut health. Although largely preventable and treatable when detected early, many cases are diagnosed late due to delayed screening and poor awareness of symptoms. March is observed globally as Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, and against this backdrop, the nationwide survey uncovered worrying trends in digestive health awareness and lifestyle habits.
The nationwide survey collected responses from 10,198 individuals aged between 25 and 65 years across 14 major Indian cities, including Kolkata, Ahmedabad, Bangalore, Calicut, Chandigarh, Chennai, Delhi, Hyderabad, Indore, Jaipur, Kochi, Lucknow, Mumbai, and Pune. The findings reveal several concerning patterns in digestive health behaviour and awareness. Over 80% of respondents self-medicate for digestive issues such as acidity, indigestion, or constipation instead of consulting a doctor. More than 65% of respondents reported experiencing irregular bowel movements. Over 50% consume outside or packaged food at least three times a week, with 28.1% eating outside almost daily. Only 45.2% reported exercising regularly, while 54.8% said they do not exercise at least three times a week. 39.9% reported tobacco consumption, which is a known risk factor for gastrointestinal diseases. 40% of young respondents ignored symptoms and reported digestive irregularities but did not consult a doctor, assuming it was due to lifestyle habits. Most importantly, over 80% of respondents were unaware that blood in stool can be an early warning sign of colorectal cancer.
As the campaign gathered momentum across Chandigarh, the city-specific survey findings exposed a worrying lack of awareness around digestive health and colorectal cancer.
The city-specific analysis for Chandigarh included 624 participants, comprising 287 male and 333 female respondents, across age groups 25–35 (162), 36–45 (266), 46–55 (144), and 55 years and above (52). The findings revealed that over 81% of respondents fail to recognise blood in stool as a warning sign of colorectal cancer, indicating low awareness. Equally concerning is the delay in seeking medical help, with over 85% of respondents opting for over-the-counter solutions or lifestyle changes if their bowel habits changed for a few weeks (constipation or loose motions), while only 14.4% would consult a doctor. Digestive symptoms were widely reported in the city, with 60.5% of respondents experiencing irregular bowel movements and 81.5% reporting a sensation of incomplete bowel evacuation at times, which often remains unaddressed. Lifestyle risks were also evident, with around 78% frequently consuming outside or packaged food, while only 44.3% reported exercising regularly, indicating a lack of consistent physical activity among a large section of the population.
Tobacco consumption continues to be a concern, with 37.2% of respondents reporting usage. Another major issue is self-management of symptoms, with over 85% managing gastric issues through self-medication or home remedies for problems such as acidity, gas, or indigestion, while only 10.4% seek medical advice. When it comes to more serious symptoms, 39.2% admitted they would consider self-medication even in cases of blood in stool, reflecting a concerning gap in urgency despite a potentially serious warning sign. Barriers to seeking medical care were also highlighted, with lack of time being the primary reason (33.1%), while fear (26.7%) and embarrassment (22.9%) also contributed significantly, showing that hesitation often delays care.
Awareness levels remain low, with 79% unaware that serious digestive diseases can exist without pain, increasing the risk of delayed diagnosis. Family history was reported by 23.6% of respondents, including conditions such as bowel cancer, polyps, or inflammatory diseases like Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, and celiac disease. Despite this, hereditary risk continues to remain under-recognised and under-discussed.
Dr. Rakesh Kapoor, Prof. and Unit Head, Dept. of Radiotherapy and Oncology, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, said, “Colorectal cancer develops in the colon or rectum and often begins as small growths called polyps that can gradually become cancerous if untreated. Risk factors include unhealthy diets low in fibre, obesity, sedentary lifestyles, tobacco use, and age. Don’t miss symptoms such as persistent bowel habit changes, blood in stool, abdominal discomfort, fatigue, or unexplained weight loss. Colorectal cancer is highly treatable when detected early through screening methods such as colonoscopy.”
Dr. Jatin Sarin, Director – Medical Oncology, Livasa Hospital, Mohali and Chandigarh Cancer & Diagnostic Center Chandigarh, explained, “Data from Chandigarh shows that many people tend to ignore early digestive symptoms and delay visiting a doctor. Instead, they often rely on self-medication, which can hide the real problem and postpone diagnosis. Signs like ongoing changes in bowel habits or blood in the stool are commonly overlooked, even though they can be early warnings of colorectal cancer. Early diagnosis allows for timely intervention and better treatment outcomes.”
Col. Dr. Gurjeet Singh Chowdhary, Consultant Medical Oncologist at Indus Superspeciality Hospital Mohali, highlighted that poor lifestyle habits play a major role in the rising incidence of colorectal cancer. He said, “Frequent consumption of processed or outside food, lack of physical activity, tobacco use, and obesity can increase the risk. Adopting healthier habits such as a fibre-rich diet that includes broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage, etc., along with regular exercise, avoiding tobacco, and undergoing routine screening — can reduce the risk of colorectal cancer and improve overall digestive health.”
Calling AMRIT Pharmacy a “big shot in the arm for patient care,” Prof. Vivek Lal, Director, PGIMER, today stated, “Ayushman Bharat is functioning like a 4×4 wheel drive, powering and sustaining the enormous patient load at PGIMER, while AMRIT serves as its backbone by ensuring affordability of treatment,” as he inaugurated the institute’s 14th AMRIT (Affordable Medicines and Reliable Implants for Treatment) Pharmacy, the highest number of such outlets in any public sector hospital across the country.
The facility at Nehru Extension Block was inaugurated by Prof. Vivek Lal in the presence of Prof. R.K. Ratho, Dean (Academics); Prof. Sanjay Jain, Dean (Research); Pankaj Rai, Deputy Director Administration; Prof. Sandeep Bansal, Additional Medical Superintendent; Heads of Departments, senior faculty, residents, nursing officers, and staff of PGIMER.
Rajesh Nair, Vice President, AMRIT Pharmacy, was also present on the occasion along with his team, underscoring the continued support and collaboration from the AMRIT initiative.
Addressing the gathering, Prof. Vivek Lal described the AMRIT initiative as a cornerstone of patient-centric care and highlighted its critical role in supporting beneficiaries under Ayushman Bharat as he stated, “Every patient deserves assured quality and affordability. Through AMRIT, we are ensuring access to medicines from standard, reputed companies at significant discounts. This initiative has become a backbone of patient care,” Prof. Lal said.
Emphasizing the scale and pressure on services, Prof. Lal remarked, “ Ayushman Bharat is enabling access, supporting high patient volumes, and ensuring that financial constraints do not come in the way of treatment. AMRIT complements this by making medicines affordable and accessible.”
Highlighting expansion plans, Director PGIMER noted that with 14 AMRIT outlets already operational, PGIMER aims to establish 2 to 3 more outlets to further strengthen last-mile delivery of affordable medicines.
“In high-load areas such as cardiology and emergency services, AMRIT outlets are being positioned for 24×7 availability, with dedicated facilitation for Ayushman Bharat beneficiaries. This is not a commercial activity—it is a patient welfare movement ensuring timely access to essential medicines,” Prof. Lal stated.
Describing AMRIT as a transformative initiative, he said, “This is among the best interventions for patients. We are grateful to the Government of India for promoting such a noble and enlightening movement that directly benefits the common citizen.”
Acknowledging operational realities, Prof. Lal emphasized continuous improvement as he stated, “No system is ever 100 percent perfect, but we are committed to ensuring maximum efficiency and reliability. Issues such as availability gaps and refund timelines are being actively addressed, and we are in communication with the Ministry to further streamline processes.”
Director PGIMER also underlined the need for robust systems to handle the ever-increasing patient influx. “Given the magnitude of patient load, we are ensuring optimal stocking and seamless functioning of AMRIT outlets so that patient care, particularly under Ayushman Bharat, remains uninterrupted.”
Reiterating PGIMER’s legacy, Prof. Lal noted, “Since 1963, PGIMER has stood as a pillar of patient care. The scale of services we provide is equivalent to the best in the world, and we continue to strengthen infrastructure and systems in line with national priorities.”
Speaking on institutional reforms, Director PGIMER added, “There are always invisible resistances to change, but we are moving ahead against the current. Many initiatives that once seemed difficult—such as expanding AMRIT into critical care areas—are now a reality. These are silent yet powerful transformations benefiting patients every day.”
Sharing future developments, Prof. Lal informed that the Hon’ble Union Health Minister will visit PGIMER on April 27, 2026, for the convocation ceremony. During the visit, major facilities including the Neurosciences Centre, Advanced Maternal and Child Health Centre, Critical Care Centre, and other key infrastructure projects are expected to be inaugurated , further augmenting patient care capacity.
Director PGIMER also appreciated the role of administrative and financial streamlining in enabling progress. “In recent months, financial processes have become smoother, enabling faster procurement and improved service delivery. This has directly supported the expansion and efficiency of AMRIT outlets,” he said.
The inauguration of the 14th AMRIT Pharmacy reinforces PGIMER’s leadership in advancing affordable healthcare, with AMRIT and Ayushman Bharat together acting as a strong, complementary system to support the growing patient load and reduce out-of-pocket expenditure.
A programme to celebrate Rajasthan and Odisha Foundation Day was held at Punjab Lok Bhavan, where the Governor of Punjab and Administrator of Chandigarh, Gulab Chand Kataria, along with his wife Smt. Anita Kataria, attended as the Chief Guest. He extended warm greetings to the people of both states, stating that Rajasthan is known for its bravery and courage, while Odisha is admired for its devotion and spirituality. Together, they reflect India’s shared identity. He also highlighted the role of Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat in promoting cultural exchange, better understanding, and unity among different states.
The Rajasthan presentation included an address by Ms. Geetanjali Khandelwal, IPS, followed by “Desert Symphony” featuring traditional instruments. Folk and classical performances such as Angi Ger, Bhawal, Kathak, Seharia Swang, Ghoomar, and Kalbelia showcased the vibrant culture of the state.
The Odisha presentation included a speech by Dr. R. K. Rathoo, a lively Sambalpuri folk performance, and a live portrait painting of the Governor by Mr. Shani Dhanuk, which added an artistic touch. These presentations highlighted cultural exchange and the spirit of national integration.
The Governor conveyed a message of humanity, urging people to rise above ego and anger. He emphasized that the spirit of humanity is deeply rooted in India’s soil. Referring to the teachings of Lord Mahavira, particularly in the context of Mahavir Jayanti, he highlighted the values of forgiveness, non-violence, and harmony.
Speaking about Rajasthan, the Governor noted that the state is known for its rich history, forts, folk traditions, crafts, cuisine, and warm hospitality. He referred to heritage sites such as Kalibangan and famous forts like Chittorgarh and Amer, along with well-known dances like Ghoomar and Kalbelia, which represent Rajasthan’s cultural richness.
Referring to Odisha, he said the state has a proud cultural and historical legacy. He highlighted the heritage of Kalinga, the Jagannath Temple, the Konark Sun Temple, Odissi dance, tribal traditions, literature, biodiversity, and the state’s role in India’s freedom movement and economic growth.
The Governor said that celebrating foundation days together promotes mutual respect and understanding among states. He emphasized that India’s strength lies in its diversity and that such programmes help strengthen national unity. He called upon citizens to draw inspiration from the rich heritage of both states and work together for a strong and progressive India.
Also present on the occasion were Cabinet Minister, Punjab, Shri Gurmeet Singh Khuddian; MLA Dr. Nachhatar Pal; Additional Solicitor General of India Shri Satya Pal Jain; Principal Secretary to the Governor of Punjab Shri Vivek Pratap Singh; Home Secretary Shri Mandip Singh Brar; Director General of Police, Chandigarh, Dr. Sagarpreet Hooda; Deputy Commissioner, Chandigarh, Shri Nishant Kumar Yadav; Shri Shivdular Singh, Secretary, Red Cross, Punjab; Smt. Priyadarshini Thakur, IAS (Retd.); former Mayor Smt. Harpreet Kaur Babla; and other distinguished guests.
According to Sanatan Dharma today is a day dedicated to worshipping Lord Vishnu. On paying obeisance to the deity on this day, one’s desires get fulfilled and this also helps cleanse oneself of any sins. To mark the day Purushottam Das Rungta Charitable Trust organised a ‘Community kitchen’ or ‘Ann Bhandara’ as part of its endeavour to do something for society and also in honour of Lord Vishnu. This was the Trust’s 209th Community Kitchen. “Putting up a community kitchen or ‘ann bhandara’ on this auspicious occasion is a good way to pay tribute to Lord Vishnu, as through a community kitchen, one feeds the needy and this is considered a very noble deed,” said Amitabh Rungta, Founder, Purushottam Das Rungta Charitable Trust. Trust members actively participated in organizing the ‘community kitchen’ and made a significant contribution to its success.
Chandigarh, March 29 — Haryana Minister of Social Justice and Empowerment, Krishan Kumar Bedi, stated that the state government is committed to providing every citizen with education, healthcare, and security as a matter of priority. Haryana is achieving new milestones in the field of education.
Mr. Bedi was speaking as the chief guest at a program held on the 40th Foundation Day of Jain Public School in Rewari on Sunday.
He said that under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini, the government is working to provide all essential facilities to citizens in the country and the state. He added that the Haryana government is working to ensure that every citizen of the state has access to education, healthcare, and security. He mentioned that today, both government and private institutions in the state are being provided with better infrastructure, and students are being given necessary facilities as required. The government’s aim is that not a single child in the state should be deprived of education.
On this occasion, he also assured that the demands raised by the school management committee would be fulfilled. He encouraged the school’s talented students by distributing awards and certificates of appreciation.
Chandigarh, March 29 – Haryana Chief Minister Sh Nayab Singh Saini on Sunday said that even in times of global crisis, opposition parties in the country continue to indulge in politics, calling such an approach “unfortunate” in the current scenario of tensions and conflict in the Middle East. Referring to the global situation impacting fuel prices, he said that rising prices of petrol, diesel and gas are being witnessed worldwide. He said that it is the Prime Minister Sh Narendra Modi who take timely steps to control prices domestically by reducing excise duty, thereby providing relief to citizens.
The Chief Minister was addressing a well-attended Dhanyavaad Evam Vikas Rally in Gohana today, where he said that this is not the time for political differences, but for unity and collective effort to address the challenges arising from the global crisis. He urged people to remain cautious of misleading narratives and avoid being influenced by divisive politics.
Assuring the public, Sh. Nayab Saini stated that there is no shortage of petrol, diesel or cooking gas in Haryana. He informed that all petrol pumps and gas agencies across the state have sufficient stock available. The government is in constant touch with senior officials of gas agencies and the petroleum department to ensure uninterrupted supply, he said.
He further warned that strict action would be taken against any individual or entity involved in black marketing or hoarding of essential commodities.
Recalling the challenging times of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Chief Minister said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi stood firmly with the people and ensured the safe return of Indians stranded abroad, demonstrating strong and decisive leadership during hard times.
BJP State President, Mohan Lal Kaushik, Cooperation and Tourism Minister Dr Arvind Sharma, Development and Panchayat Minister Krishan Lal Panwar, Deputy Speaker Krishan Middha, Rajya Sabha MP Ramchandar Jangra, MLAs Nikhil Madaan, Krishna Gahlawat, former Mayor Rajeev Jain, Kiran Kalkal and other dignitaries were also present on this occasion.
Chandigarh, March 29 – Haryana Chief Minister Sh Nayab Singh Saini on Sunday highlighted the state government’s strong development record in Gohana, stating that out of 97 announcements made over the past 11.5 years, 87 have already been fulfilled, with work progressing rapidly on the remaining projects. Drawing a sharp contrast with the previous regime, he said that the present government has invested Rs 1,794 crore in the development of the Gohana Assembly constituency, significantly higher than the Rs 741 crore spent during the 10-year Congress rule. He alleged that the funds spent during the previous regime were marred by corruption and lacked proper accountability.
The Chief Minister was addressing a large gathering at the Dhanyavaad Evam Vikas Rally organized in Gohana today. On the occasion, he also inaugurated and laid the foundation stone of 16 development projects worth Rs 113.62 crore. This included inauguration of seven projects worth Rs 20.52 crore and foundation stones for nine projects worth Rs 93.10 crore. He reiterated the government’s commitment to ensuring holistic and accelerated development of the Gohana Assembly segment.
Highlighting the broader progress of Haryana, the Chief Minister credited Prime Minister Sh Narendra Modi for providing visionary leadership that has propelled both the state and the country towards new heights of growth and global recognition. He said that the “double-engine government” has ensured that the benefits of development reach every household, empowering farmers, making youth self-reliant, and enhancing the safety and dignity of women.
He further stated that out of 217 promises made in the party’s Sankalp Patra during the last Assembly elections, 60 have already been fulfilled, while work is underway on 153 promises. He assured that all commitments will be completed within the stipulated five-year period.
Sharing details of welfare initiatives, the Chief Minister said that under the Deendayal Lado Lakshmi Yojana, launched with an allocation of Rs 5,000 crore, financial assistance of Rs2,100 per month is being provided to nearly 10 lakh women. So far, Rs 834 crore has been disbursed under the scheme, and Rs 6,500 crore has been earmarked in the current budget to expand its coverage to families with annual income up to Rs 1.8 lakh.
In the agriculture sector, he said that all crops in the state are being procured at Minimum Support Price (MSP). He added that compensation worth Rs 16,160 crore has been disbursed under the Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana over the past 11 years, compared to Rs 1,138 crore released during the previous Congress regime, of which Rs 69 crore remained pending and was later cleared by the present government after taking reign of the administration in 2014.
Under the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi Yojana, Rs 7,562 crore has been directly transferred to the accounts of 20.18 lakh farmers in 22 installments. He also highlighted that social security pensions have been increased to Rs 3,200 per month. Under Mukhyamantri Awas Yojana (Urban), plots and flats have been allotted to 18,470 families, while under the rural component, 12,031 plots have been distributed.
The Chief Minister also listed key citizen-centric initiatives such as Ayushman Bharat–Chirayu Yojana, free dialysis services for kidney patients, and transparent recruitment for government jobs without “kharchi-parchi”.
Referring to the Budget 2026–27, he shared the establishment of a third power distribution company, Haryana Agri Discom, to ensure dedicated and uninterrupted electricity supply for farmers. Additionally, 1.40 lakh hectares of saline land will be made cultivable.
Speaking on the occasion, BJP State President Mohan Lal Kaushik said that the present government has ensured merit-based employment, affordable healthcare, fair crop prices for farmers, and social security for women. He expressed confidence that the Chief Minister would continue to drive inclusive development across all sections of society.
State Government is working on the principle of Haryana Ek–Haryanvi Ek – Dr Arvind Sharma
Speaking on the occasion, Cooperation and Tourism Minister Arvind Sharma said that the people have voted the BJP to power for a third consecutive term in 2024, making it truly a government of the people. He thanked all sections of society for this victory, especially for ensuring the party’s maiden win in Gohana. He said that people today are confident that their interests are safe in the hands of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini. The state government, he added, is working on the guiding principle of “Haryana Ek–Haryanvi Ek.”
Dr. Sharma further said that more than 5,000 suggestions were taken by the Chief Minister to make the current budget development-oriented. He noted that the benefits of the Lado Lakshmi Yojana have already reached over 10 lakh eligible women in the state, and the income eligibility limit has now been enhanced from Rs 1 lakh to Rs 1.80 lakh.
Highlighting rapid progress, he said that Gohana is witnessing accelerated industrial development under the leadership of the Chief Minister and expressed the vision of developing Gohana on the lines of Gurugram and Faridabad. Referring to the demand for granting district status to Gohana, he expressed confidence that the Chief Minister will fulfill this aspiration in the time to come. He also submitted various demands of the Gohana Assembly constituency to the Chief Minister.
Development and Panchayat Minister Krishan Lal Panwar, Deputy Speaker Krishan Middha, Rajya Sabha MP Ramchandar Jangra, MLAs Nikhil Madaan, Krishna Gahlawat, former Mayor Rajeev Jain, Kiran Kalkal and other dignitaries were also present on this occasion.
Chandigarh, March 29- Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini said that under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, a significant transformation has taken place in the mindset of the youth, which is accelerating the pace of nation-building. He noted that in his Mann Ki Baat programme, the Prime Minister described India as the youngest country in the world.
Referring to the programme, the Chief Minister said that the Prime Minister also praised Yamunanagar youth Pratham Brar for his vision of a green and clean India as a pathway to prosperity. He added that the youth of Haryana are actively contributing and remain committed to the development of the nation.
Sh. Nayab Singh Saini was listening to the 132nd edition of the Prime Minister’s Mann Ki Baat programme at the BJP District Office in Kurukshetra on Sunday. Former Haryana Minister of State Subhash Sudha, District President Tejendra Singh Goldy, and District Incharge Deepak Sharma were also present on the occasion.
Groundwater levels will be raised by collecting rainwater through Amrit Sarovar
Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini said that in view of the summer season, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has appealed for water conservation and storage, spreading the message “Water is Life” by sharing inspiring stories from different parts of the country. He said that the state government has launched a campaign to promote rainwater harvesting through the development of Amrit Sarovars. By cleaning these water bodies and ensuring proper storage of rainwater, groundwater levels can be improved, securing water availability for future generations. He further added that the Prime Minister has been consistently raising awareness about water conservation by citing innovative examples of farmers who are collecting rainwater and effectively using it to enhance agricultural productivity.
Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini said that Haryana is playing a significant role under the Pradhan Mantri Surya Ghar Free Electricity Scheme. To maximize benefits for citizens, the state government has provided a separate subsidy, ensuring that a two-kilowatt solar system is available free of charge to households with an annual income below Rs 1.8 lakh. Referring to the Prime Minister’s appeal, he encouraged citizens to reduce their sugar intake by 10% to combat obesity and associated health issues. He also emphasized the importance of education, sports, tree plantation, fish farming, and yoga for holistic development.
He said that Mann Ki Baat addresses issues of social, economic, and cultural significance while also disseminating government policies and inviting feedback from citizens. He described the programme as a powerful medium of communication between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the public, highlighting inspiring stories of social innovation, positive efforts, and public participation across the country. According to him, such initiatives not only energize society but also foster harmony and collective progress.
The Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini said that in Mann Ki Baat, Prime Minister Narendra Modi addresses key social issues such as sanitation, water conservation, environment, cultural heritage, education, health, and various government schemes. The Prime Minister often shares inspiring stories of individuals and communities who have brought about positive change. An important feature of the program is the online portal MyGov, which allows citizens to submit their ideas and suggestions, with selected messages being highlighted during the broadcast. Over time, the program has had a profound impact on society and governance.
He said that Mann Ki Baat provides a unique platform for the Prime Minister to connect directly with citizens across the country. With the extensive reach of radio, the program reaches even the remotest areas, and the achievements of the people of Haryana have been highlighted several times. The Chief Minister emphasized that the main objective of the program is to establish a dialogue and communicate the Prime Minister’s vision to the common people.
He expressed pride in interacting with Prime Minister Modi and said that the program sets an example of dedication and hard work for others to follow. Sh. Saini added that Mann Ki Baat particularly inspires the youth to innovate, achieve self-reliance, and contribute to nation-building. The program not only motivates thought but also encourages citizens to move forward with a spirit of development, service, and responsibility.
Chandigarh, March 29- Haryana Chief Minister Sh Nayab Singh Saini today announced development initiatives worth crores of rupees for the Gohana Assembly constituency, reaffirming the state government’s commitment to inclusive growth and infrastructure expansion across the state.
Addressing a large gathering at the Dhanyavaad Evam Vikas Rally in Gohana, the Chief Minister announced the construction of a sports stadium in the constituency. He further declared that Bhagwan Parshuram Virasat Park along with a jogging track will be developed over Drain No. 8. A multi-storey parking facility along with commercial space will also be established on PPP mode, subject to the availability of land.
In the healthcare and education sector, he announced the setting up of a Cardiac Cath Lab on PPP mode at Bhagat Phool Singh Government Medical College, Khanpur Kalan. He also stated that classes of the Physiotherapy College at the same institution will commence from the academic session 2027–28 after completion of the building.
The Chief Minister, while addressing the public meeting organized by Cooperation and Tourism Minister Dr Arvind Sharma, made several key announcements aimed at strengthening civic and other infrastructure. These include construction of Shiv Dham on Sonipat Road subject to land availability, establishment of a new 33 KV substation at Power House Meham Road in Gohana, and upgradation of the 33 KV substation at Khanpur Kalan. He also announced the upgradation of Khanpur Kalan Sub-Tehsil to a full-fledged Tehsil and creation of Sub-Tehsils at Baroda and Farmana.
Additionally, the Chief Minister announced that village Garhi Ujalekhan will be renamed as Krishan Nagar and village Garhi Namdarkhan as Sundar Nagar upon receipt of proposals from the respective gram panchayats.
Boosting tourism and urban development, he stated that a tourism resort will be established in Gohana subject to the availability of two acres of land by the gram panchayat. A Transport Nagar will also be developed by HSVP, and plots will be allocated for social institutions in upcoming HSVP sectors.
He further announced that a request will be sent to NHAI for the construction of a service lane along the Jammu-Katra Expressway from village Rukhi to Aahulana. Renovation works of Irrigation Bhawan, Jal Shakti Bhawan, and the Rest House in Gohana will also be undertaken. Drain No. 4 passing through the Badota habitation area will be paved, and the Gohana Minor will be reconstructed. Renovation and construction of bridges on various drains across the constituency were also announced.
In the education sector, he said that a committee of the Education Department will be constituted to consider the upgradation of Government Middle School, Garhi Sarai Namdarkhan to senior secondary level. Development works worth Rs 1 crore will be carried out in all schools of the Gohana Assembly constituency.
For strengthening water infrastructure, the Chief Minister announced the construction of canal-based water works at a cost of Rs ₹8 crore in villages Mahipur-Kavredi. Drinking water supply and sewer pipelines will be laid in Khanpur Kalan at a cost of Rs 5.5 crore. Water supply pipelines will also be laid in villages Sarkathal, Badota, Kilohadat, and Dodhawa Ratangarh at a cost of Rs 12.50 crore. Two deep tubewells along with pipelines will be installed in Khedi Damgan, while pipelines will also be laid under the Mahatma Gandhi Gramin Basti Yojana in villages Hasanyarpur, Tihadkalan, and Badwasni.
He also announced the construction of a covered shed and platform in the New Grain Market, Gohana. Repair and renovation of HSAMB roads will be undertaken at a cost of Rs 5 crore. Regarding the alternate western bypass, he said that 50 percent land has already been received through consent on the e-Bhoomi portal and work will begin once the remaining land is available. He also urged the government to provide the remaining land for this project.
For easing traffic congestion, he said that requests will be sent to the Ministry of Railways for construction of a Road Under Bridge (RUB) on Gohana-Baroda Road and a Road Over Bridge (ROB) on Gohana-Meham Road.
The Chief Minister also announced Rs 6.90 crore for repair and renovation of seven PWD roads in the constituency. Additionally, 34 PWD roads covering 101 km, currently under defect liability period, will be repaired by the concerned agencies. Under the Mukhyamantri Khet Khalihan Yojana, 25 km of unpaved rural pathways will be made pucca.
He further announced Rs 5 crore for various development works in villages of the Gohana Assembly constituency. On the demand to increase the municipal limits of Gohana Municipal Council, he assured that the proposal will be considered after completion of the special intensive revision process.
On the occasion, various social and religious organizations extended a warm welcome and honoured Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini.
BJP State President, Mohan Lal Kaushik, Cooperation and Tourism Minister Dr Arvind Sharma, Development and Panchayat Minister Krishan Lal Panwar, Deputy Speaker Krishan Middha, Rajya Sabha MP Ramchandra Jangra, MLAs Nikhil Madaan, Krishna Gahlawat, former Mayor Rajeev Jain, Kiran Kalkal and other dignitaries were also present on this occasion.
