Chandigarh: In a pioneering move towards enhancing horticultural practices, the Haryana Government has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the University of Birmingham to establish the first-of-its-kind Haryana-UK Centre of Excellence on Sustainable Crop Post-Harvest Management and Cold Chain for horticulture crops. The state-of-the-art centre, located in Panchkula, aims to significantly reduce post-harvest losses while maintaining the quality and freshness of horticultural produce from farm to consumer.

The MoU was signed in the presence of Haryana Chief Minister Sh. Nayab Singh Saini and Haryana Agriculture and Farmers Welfare Minister Sh. Shyam Singh Rana.

On behalf of the Haryana Government, the MoU was signed by Additional Chief Secretary Agriculture and Farmers Welfare Department, Sh. Raja Shekhar Vundru, while Prof. Robin Mason, Pro-Vice Chancellor (International), University of Birmingham, signed on behalf of the university.

Speaking at the signing ceremony, Chief Minister Sh. Nayab Singh Saini said that Haryana, being the food bowl of India, is rapidly diversifying into fresh fruits and vegetables. This expansion calls for the effective management of the cold chain to minimize post-harvest losses in the sector. He further said that the Centre of Excellence will play a crucial role in ensuring quality, reducing wastage, and supporting the agricultural community in Haryana.

The Centre of Excellence will serve as a comprehensive research and testing hub under one roof, dedicated to improving the post-harvest management of fruits and vegetables. It will also provide vital research and testing services for students and researchers from CCS Haryana Agricultural University (CCS HAU), Hisar and Maharana Pratap Horticulture University, Karnal allowing them to undertake studies and experiments in the fields of post-harvest management and cold chain technology.

Key objectives of the Centre include reducing post-harvest losses by developing guidelines and protocols to mitigate such losses; fostering cold chain innovations by providing testing facilities and supporting advancements to ensure an efficient cold chain for horticultural products; nurturing tech start-ups by offering incubation support for cold chain technologies; driving sustainable practices through cutting-edge research on energy-efficient cold chain solutions and the development of sustainable business models; and establishing a comprehensive national framework for cold-chain practices and post-harvest management (PHM), aimed at curbing horticultural produce wastage.

In addition to its core research activities, the Centre will provide training, technology demonstrations, and incubation facilities for businesses and farmers, helping them adapt and thrive in a rapidly evolving agricultural landscape.

The Haryana Government has allocated 15 acres of land adjoining the Directorate of Horticulture, Sector 21, Panchkula, for the development of the CoE-SPMCC. The Centre will feature a training centre, technology demonstration area, testing centre, and technology incubation centre.

With this collaboration, Haryana is poised to set a benchmark in sustainable crop post-harvest management and cold chain practices, contributing significantly to reducing food waste and enhancing the profitability and sustainability of horticultural farming.

Experts from the University of Birmingham are leading a consortium of UK and international universities to provide technical assistance in developing the Centre in Panchkula. The consortium includes Heriot-Watt University, Cranfield University, London South Bank University, and the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP). This collaborative effort has driven the design and establishment of the Centre, with the University of Birmingham taking the lead on resilient systems approaches to energy and cooling, energy transitions and storage, and understanding the social impacts of these technologies.

Additional Principal Secretary to Chief Minister Dr Saket Kumar, HoD Horticulture Department Dr Arjun Singh Saini and other officers were also present on this occasion.

Chandigarh, February 15, 2025 – Haryana Energy Minister, Sh. Anil Vij conducted a surprise inspection at the Rajiv Gandhi Vidyut Bhawan, UHBVN, Rohtak, on February 2, 2025. During this, he reviewed the pending electricity complaints at the Bijli Seva Kendra, Rohtak Circle and found that several complaints were not resolved within the stipulated four-hour timeframe. Following this, he directed the Executive Engineer, Operation Circle, UHBVN, Rohtak, to investigate the matter and sought explanations from the concerned officers and staff. 

During the investigation, a total of six complaints were found out, out of which four were resolved on time, while two were delayed. These two complaints were related to Jai Narayan from the village of Hamayupur, whose grandson, Rahul had complained regarding disruption of power supply on AP connection.

It was found that Junior Engineer (JE) Vikas Kaushik and Lineman Rambir were responsible for the delay. On February 1, 2025, at 6:40 AM, a fault occurred in the 11 kV line of the Hamayupur AP feeder, which was repaired by 10:25 AM but power supply to the affected area was not restored. This shows JE’s lack of concern, as he did not inspect the site personally despite being in charge. Besides this, he also allowed his subordinates to work without  PTW approval, which posed a risk of serious accident. This was deemed a severe act of negligence. 

Accordingly, Executive Engineer, Rohtak has suspended Lineman Rambir with immediate effect, while the case against JE Vikas Kaushik has been sent to UHBVN Headquarters, Panchkula for disciplinary action.

After reviewing the case, UHBVN Panchkula has issued a charge sheet to JE Vikas Kaushik and directed him to give an explanation within 30 days. If the reply is not submitted within the stipulated time limit, it will be considered as an admission of guilt and further action will be taken against him.

Chandigarh, February 15 – Haryana Chief Minister, Sh Nayab Singh Saini said that cancer is a serious illness, but if its symptoms are detected early, treatment is possible.

            He made these remarks while meeting with children who are cancer survivors, along with their parents and doctors, at Haryana Bhawan in New Delhi on Saturday, in observance of International Childhood Cancer Day.

            The Chief Minister extended his blessings to the cancer survivor children, wishing them a bright future. The children presented him with artwork created from their handprints, which the Chief Minister signed, while also sharing a message encouraging greater awareness of childhood cancer. He said that the incidence of cancer has been rising steadily in recent years, affecting people across all age groups. Raising awareness is crucial in preventing the disease, he said that with timely recognition of its symptoms, treatment is possible through proper examination.

            The Chief Minister also took time to engage with the doctors from Fortis Hospital in Gurugram who accompanied the children, commending their efforts in helping the children recover from this serious illness. It is noteworthy that the Haryana government is taking extensive measures to raise awareness about cancer and provide support for those affected. Cancer patients in the state are offered free bus travel on Haryana State Transport buses, as well as a monthly pension through social security programs. In addition, awareness rallies, seminars, and health camps are being organized across Haryana to further educate the public. Health services for cancer patients are also available through institutions such as Atal Cancer Hospital in Ambala, PGIMS Rohtak, National Cancer Institute in Jhajjar, and various Day-Care Centers.

Dr. Vikas Dua, Dr. Arun Daneva, Dr. Sohini, Dr. Swati, Dr. Sunisha, Dr. Yash Rawat, Abhishek Sharma from Fortis Hospital and parents of the children were also present on this occasion.

Chandigarh, February 15 – Haryana Chief Minister Sh Nayab Singh Saini said that starting today, CMVR (Central Motor Vehicles Rules) certification for agricultural tractors will be issued by the Northern Region Farm Machinery Training and Testing Institute in Hisar. This initiative will directly benefit manufacturers in the agriculture sector across North India. In addition, a Custom Hiring Centre is also being inaugurated at the institute, where small and marginal farmers can rent agricultural machinery, such as rotavators, super seeders, land levellers, ploughs, and trolleys. This will enable farmers to use advanced equipment on their fields, enhancing productivity.

The Chief Minister was addressing the farmers and others involved in the agriculture sector after inaugurating the three-day Krishi Darshan Exhibition, organized by Agri India Exhibition, Karnal, at the Northern Region Farm Machinery Training and Testing Institute in Hisar today. He highlighted that this exhibition will play a key role in boosting the Haryana Government’s agricultural mechanization efforts and in providing farmers with valuable insights into advanced agricultural techniques.

Referring to the slogan “Jai Jawan-Jai Kisan,” Sh Nayab Singh Saini recalled how former Prime Minister Sh. Atal Bihari Vajpayee had expanded it to “Jai Jawan-Jai Kisan-Jai Vigyan,” and how Prime Minister Sh  Narendra Modi has further extended it to “Jai Jawan-Jai Kisan-Jai Vigyan-Jai Anusandhan.” The Chief Minister urged agricultural machinery manufacturers to create such affordable equipment’s that addresses the specific needs of farmers. Emphasizing the importance of innovation, he said that this work can be done by agricultural engineers and manufacturers.

The Chief Minister also encouraged farmers to take full advantage of both Central and State Government schemes by prioritizing new technologies, improved seeds, and organic farming practices. Given the declining water levels, he urged farmers to focus on water conservation and shift towards sprinkler and drip irrigation systems. He highlighted that the state government is offering subsidies of 70% to 80% on these schemes.

He further said that the state government aims to ensure maximum participation from farmers in making Haryana a prosperous, modern, and progressive state. “Our goal is to make every farmer prosperous, self-reliant, and to ensure they reap the full benefits of their hard work,” he said.

The Chief Minister pointed out that numerous welfare schemes for farmers are being implemented under the leadership of Prime Minister Sh Narendra Modi. He compared the situation before 2014 when the Congress government had allocated only Rs 1,155 crore for crop loss compensation, whereas the current state government has provided Rs 13,500 crore to Haryana farmers as compensation from 2014 to 2025, aiming to strengthen and support them. He also said that prior to 2014, the agriculture budget of the central government was Rs 25,000 crore, which has now increased to Rs 1,25,000 crore under the leadership of Prime Minister Sh Narendra Modi.

*Developed Haryana, Developed India Can only be achieved through farmers’ hard work and modern technology*

Sh Nayab Singh Saini said that the progress of farmers and the modernization of the agriculture sector are very important. He stated that the goal of transforming Haryana into a developed state and contributing to a developed India can only be achieved through the hard work of farmers and the adoption of modern technology. As a farmer’s son, he deeply understands the importance of modern machines and techniques, adding that they not only make agricultural work easier but also reduce production costs.

He further said that the agriculture sector is undergoing unprecedented changes in the 21st century. Today, through advanced technologies, farmers can both increase yields and lower costs. The use of drone technology, sensors, and artificial intelligence has revolutionized farming. Drones allow farmers to monitor fields, and spray fertilizers and pesticides more efficiently. Sensors can measure soil moisture, temperature, and nutrient levels, enabling farmers to irrigate and fertilize as needed, ultimately saving water and fertilizers while boosting production.

*Government, agricultural scientists and farmers to make joint efforts to deal with the challenges of agriculture sector*

Sh Nayab Singh Saini acknowledged the new challenges facing the agriculture sector due to changing times. He highlighted the shrinking land holdings, declining groundwater levels, and the adverse effects of climate change on crops, all of which have led to increased dependence on chemical fertilizers and pesticides to boost agricultural production. He said that addressing these challenges requires collective efforts from the government, agricultural scientists, and farmers.

He also mentioned that the Haryana government is implementing special schemes to provide farmers with tractors, harvesters, and other essential agricultural equipment. In addition, a plan is being developed to offer machinery on rent to small farmers, helping them achieve higher production at lower costs. The Chief Minister stressed the government’s focus on stubble management, and said that farmers have been incentivized with approximately Rs 1,213 crore for crop residue management equipment.

He further assured that the government is committed to increasing farmers’ income. Haryana is the first state where all crops are being purchased at MSP (Minimum Support Price). In terms of welfare initiatives, he shared that the state government has transferred Rs 1,25,000 crore directly to the accounts of 12 lakh farmers for crop purchases. If the farmers are not paid within 72 hours, the government pays with interest. For the delay in payment, farmers have been given interest of about Rs 7 crore.

*Many schemes launched for the welfare of farmers under the leadership of Prime Minister – Ranbir Gangwa*

Public Works (Buildings and Roads) Minister, Sh Ranbir Gangwa said that under the leadership of Prime Minister Sh Narendra Modi, the Central Government has launched numerous schemes to promote agriculture and improve the welfare of farmers, ultimately aiming to increase their income. He said that, under the guidance of Chief Minister Sh Nayab Singh Saini, Haryana has become the first state where all crops are being purchased at MSP (Minimum Support Price).

Sh Gangwa praised agricultural scientists and farmers, acknowledging their crucial role in making India self-sufficient in food grains and enabling exports. He further congratulated the team at the Northern Region Agricultural Machinery Training and Testing Institute for organizing the Krishi Darshan Exhibition, emphasizing that the exhibition would provide farmers with valuable information on new technologies. He expressed confidence that the adoption of these technologies would lead to increased productivity.

MLAs Randhir Panihar, Vinod Bhyana, Joint Secretary Department of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, Government of India, S. Rukmani, Director Agricultural Machinery Training and Testing Institute, Dr. Mukesh Jain, and the Vice Chancellor of Chaudhary Charan Singh Haryana Agricultural University, Prof. B. R. Kamboj, along with a large number of farmers were also present on this occasion.

Chandigarh, February 15 – Haryana Chief Minister Sh Nayab Singh Saini said that the Haryana Government is working towards the state’s development in line with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of ‘Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas’ and the principle of ‘Haryana Ek-Haryanvi Ek.’ The government’s goal is to ensure the progress of every sector and the upliftment of every citizen. Haryana’s contribution will be pivotal in achieving the Prime Minister’s vision of a developed India and Haryana will also become developed along with the nation.

The Chief Minister was addressing a function in Jagadhari Assembly constituency of Yamunanagar district today.

Targeting the opposition, the Chief Minister stated that opposition leaders had been demanding an account of the Bharatiya Janata Party government’s performance during the assembly elections. Highlighting the development achievements in the Jagadhari assembly constituency over the last two terms, he said that in the past 10 years, approximately Rs 707 crore had been spent on development works, whereas only Rs 351 crore was spent during the 10 years of Congress rule. He assured that there would be no shortage of funds for the development of the Jagadhari assembly constituency, and in the third term, development and public welfare initiatives would be accelerated threefold.

He further said that to improve connectivity in the region, the Yamunanagar-Panchkula National Highway No. 73 was constructed at a cost of Rs 1,112 crore. A new sub-tehsil, Pratap Nagar, was created, and Chhachhrauli was made a sub-division. A new canal is being constructed from Dadupar to Hamida Head, with an investment of Rs 275 crore. In addition, a dia-form wall is being built at Hathinikund Barrage at a cost of Rs 146 crore. To boost tourism, renovation and beautification work of the park near Hathinikund Barrage has been completed at a cost of Rs 11.58 crore. In total, Rs 177.56 crore has been spent on the development of roads, buildings, bridges, ROB, RUB, and Mandis in the Jagadhari Assembly constituency. Khijrabad has been renamed Pratap Nagar, and a new bus stand building has been constructed there at a cost of Rs 1 crore 20 lakh.

*Under PM Modi’s Leadership, BJP has transformed politics in Haryana and Nationwide – Nayab Singh Saini*

Sh. Nayab Singh Saini, while discussing the Delhi Assembly elections, said that the people of Delhi have endorsed the public welfare policies of Prime Minister Sh Narendra Modi by supporting the formation of the BJP government. He stated that, under the leadership of Prime Minister, the Bharatiya Janata Party has transformed the political landscape in Haryana and across the country, ensuring equal development in Haryana. As a result, he believes that the people of Haryana have once again worked tirelessly to form a government for the third consecutive term under the Prime Minister’s leadership. He expressed confidence that the people would continue to support the BJP, ensuring the lotus blooms in the upcoming civic elections.

The Chief Minister added that municipal elections are currently underway in the state, and following these elections, the government will work to further accelerate Haryana’s development threefold.

On this occasion, Agriculture and Farmers Welfare Minister Shyam Singh Rana, BJP State President Mohan Lal Badoli, MLA Ghanshyam Arora, former Minister Kanwar Pal, and other dignitaries were also present.

Chandigarh, February 15 – Union Health and Family Welfare Minister, Sh J.P. Nadda said that providing world-class medical facilities to every Indian is a top priority for the government. Under the able leadership of Prime Minister Sh Narendra Modi and the hard work of doctors and scientists, we have been successful to a great extent in this direction. He highlighted that, in the past, people had to sell their homes and land to afford treatments like cancer care. However, with initiatives like the Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Ayushman Bharat Yojana and the availability of affordable cancer medicines, all cancer patients can now access the treatment they need.

Sh J.P. Nadda was addressing the two-day national seminar on cancer organized at the National Cancer Institute, Badhsa, Jhajjar. Prior to the seminar, the Union Health Minister inaugurated the Bone Marrow Transplant Unit, Radio Nucleotide Therapy Ward, and Free Generic Dispensary at the institute. During the visit, he also reviewed the facilities available at the institute.

The Union Minister said that until 1998, there was only one AIIMS in the country. Under the leadership of former Prime Minister Sh Atal Bihari Vajpayee, 16 AIIMS were established, and this number has increased to 22 in the the government led by Prime Minister Sh Narendra Modi. He said that research and innovation in the medical field are now driven by humanitarian values. The government is formulating policies that prioritize public interest, and doctors, paramedics, and scientists are working tirelessly. As a result, there is no longer any need to travel abroad for cancer treatment.

He further stated that the National Cancer Institute, which was established just six years ago, has gained a distinct global reputation today. The Union Minister also said that this year, the central government will launch cancer day-care centers in 200 districts across the country, with plans to extend this service to every district within the next three years.

During the seminar, the Union Minister honoured individuals and institutions making significant contributions to social service in the medical field.

The event was attended by BJP National Secretary Sh Om Prakash Dhankar, AIIMS Director Dr. N. Srinivasan, Dean Academic Dr. K.K. Verma, Additional Secretary of the Health Ministry Jaideep Mishra, cancer specialists, scientists, and scholars from across the country.