Chandigarh, November 17:

As part of the series of events being organised by the Punjab Government under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann to commemorate the 350th Martyrdom Anniversary of the Ninth Guru, Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji, Light & Sound shows were held on Monday at Tarn Taran, Moga, Shaheed Bhagat Singh Nagar and Bathinda. A large number of devotees attended these events, which were attended by the Speaker of the Punjab Vidhan Sabha, Cabinet Ministers, MLAs and local leaders.

A spokesperson informed that at the Police Stadium in Tarn Taran, Jail and Transport Minister Laljit Singh Bhullar and Khemkaran MLA Sarvan Singh Dhun were present during the show. Similarly, at the New Grain Market in Moga, Punjab Vidhan Sabha Speaker Kultar Singh Sandhwan, Moga MLA Dr. Amandeep Kaur Arora, Baghapurana MLA Amritpal Singh Sukhanand, Nihal Singh Wala MLA Manjit Singh Bilaspur and Dharamkot MLA Davinderjit Singh Laddi Dhose attended the programme dedicated to the supreme sacrifice of Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib Ji.

At the ITI Ground in Shaheed Bhagat Singh Nagar, Finance, Planning, Excise and Taxation Minister Advocate Harpal Singh Cheema participated in the event along with the sangat. Meanwhile, at the Shaheed Bhagat Singh Stadium in Bathinda, Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare Minister Gurmeet Singh Khuddian, Bathinda Urban MLA Jagroop Singh Gill and Bhucho Mandi MLA Master Jagsir Singh joined the gathering.

Devotees who attended these Light & Sound shows appreciated the initiative of the Punjab Government. Using modern laser lights and 3D projection technology, the shows highlighted the entire life journey, philosophy, teachings and the unparalleled sacrifice made by Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji for the protection of religion and human values.

It is noteworthy that the final phase of the Light & Sound shows will be held on November 20 at Sri Anandpur Sahib, Malerkotla and Mansa.

Faridabad (Haryana), November 17:

Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann vehemently reiterated claim over Chandigarh, Panjab University, river waters besides advocating genuine federal structure in the country before the Union Home Minister Amit Shah in the 32ndmeeting of the Northern Zonal Council held here Monday.

Flagging the issues, the Chief Minister said that the Indian Constitution clearly demarcated areas in which the Union and the States have to function to exercise their respective authority. He said that Federalism remains one of the basic pillars of our Constitution but unfortunately, there has been a trend towards centralization of authority during the past 75 years. Bhagwant Singh Mann underlined that the state governments, being at the cutting edge, are in a much better position to understand, address and solve the problems of their people.

Vehemently pleading for handing over Chandigarh to the state of Punjab, the Chief Minister said that after the reorganization of the state Indira Gandhi Agreement of 1970 explicitly stated that “the capital project area of Chandigarh will, as a whole, go to Punjab, which was a clear commitment from the Central Government. He said that the Rajiv-Longowal Accord, signed on July 24th, 1985, between the then Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi and Sant Harchand Singh Longowal, explicitly reaffirmed that Chandigarh will be transferred to Punjab. However, Bhagwant Singh Mann bemoaned that despite all promises Chandigarh was not transferred to Punjab which has bruised the psyche of every Punjabi.

Raising the issue of maintaining the status quo of the 60:40 ratio in the intake of service personnel from Punjab and Haryana in the functioning of the UT of Chandigarh, the Chief Minister said that it is the need of the hour. He said that it is a matter of grave concern that officers of the IAS and the PCS have been excluded from key positions in the Chandigarh administration. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that posts in departments such as Excise, Education, Finance, and Health are being opened to cadres like the state UT cadre (DANICS), thereby adversely affecting the role of the state of Punjab in the effective functioning of the UT administration.

The Chief Minister said that another linked issue is the posting of Punjab Cadre officers to the post of General Manager FCI (Punjab). He said that considering the consistently highest contribution of the state of Punjab towards the Central pool, the established trend of posting of an IAS officer from Punjab Cadre to the Regional Office of the FCI should not be disturbed by the Government of India. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that the post of MD CITCO has been held by an IAS officer of Punjab cadre in the past however, UT state service officers are being posted to this position, which is against the convention laid down in the administration of the UT of Chandigarh based on a 60:40 ratio for intake of personnel from Punjab and Haryana.

In the wake of the suspension of the Indus Water Treaty, the Chief Minister said that there is a great opportunity for the resolution of water-related issues concerning the states being represented here. He said that there is a possibility of linking the Chenab river to the rivers Ravi and Beas, over which we already have dams regulating the water flow downstream. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that in linking river Chenab with rivers Ravi and Beas, the surplus water inflow could be utilized gainfully by the downstream states, including Punjab, for both power generation and irrigation purposes adding that the extra water will also help the State of Punjab to meet its shortfall of water, particularly in the Border areas.

Raising the issue of Bhakra Beas Management Board (BBMB), the Chief Minister forcefully opposed the proposal to appoint a whole-time Member in BBMB from Rajasthan as the board is a body constituted under the Punjab Reorganisation Act, 1966, which concerns only the successor states of Punjab and Haryana. He said that Rajasthan and Himachal Pradesh are already represented as ex-officio members, and creating additional whole-time posts will only increase expenditure most of which is borne by Punjab without serving any useful purpose. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that Punjab has already submitted a panel for appointment of Members and the Government of India should continue with the original arrangement of one Member each from Punjab and Haryana.

The Chief Minister also strongly opposed any proposal to raise the Full Reservoir Levels (FRLs) of Bhakra and Pong dams. After the catastrophic 1988 floods, he said that the FRLs were reduced in the interest of protecting lives and property in Punjab, the only state affected by these floodwaters. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that the severe floods of years 2019, 2023 and 2025 have reconfirmed that present FRLs must be maintained.

The Chief Minister said that Punjab suffered massive losses of nearly Rs.13,500 crore last year while Rajasthan faced no impact and has itself stated that it cannot take any additional water during floods. He said that with increasing siltation and signs of structural stress, raising the FRLs will compel emergency releases, endangering downstream habitations in Punjab. Thus, Bhagwant Singh Mann said that the correct solution is therefore desiltation, not elevation of FRLs, and Punjab urges that BBMB be directed to maintain the current levels as the state has been suffering huge losses due to floods during the last so many years. It is therefore imperative that the partner states also share the loss in the same ratio as they share the water during the lean seasons, he added.

Reiterating that the state has no surplus water to spare through SYL, the Chief Minister said that there has been no scientific calculation regarding the availability of water even in the year 1976, 1981 when the ratio of waters to be shared among the states was decided by the Government of India unilaterally. He said that Punjab has been disputing the availability of water at 17.17 MAF since 1981 itself particularly when all international water agreements mention that the water availability needs to be assessed every 25 years. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that the water availability in 1981 itself was taken on the basis of the flow series 1921-1960 i.e. already more than 20 years had passed.

The Chief Minister said that the availability of Ravi–Beas waters has significantly declined, 75% of Punjab’s blocks are over-exploited, and the matter is under adjudication before the Ravi–Beas Tribunal. He said that all proceedings on SYL should therefore be kept in abeyance until the Tribunal gives its final award adding that Punjab has already conveyed that future discussions may be possible only after a fresh, scientific reassessment of water availability and only after Punjab’s essential requirements are fully secured. In wake of suspension of the Indus Water Treaty, Bhagwant Singh Mann said that it is high time that the Government of India should explore the diversion of water of all western rivers to India in view of the suspension of this Treaty.

The Chief Minister said that until this exercise is carried out, any decision regarding the distribution of Ravi Beas waters should be kept on hold as Punjab cannot agree to any step that threatens its agriculture, groundwater security, and long-term sustainability. Bhagwant Singh Mann also opposed the proposal to transfer control of the Ropar, Harike and Ferozepur Headworks to BBMB as these Headworks are located entirely within Punjab and have always been physically operated and maintained by the State. He said that nowhere in India are Headworks of one State run by an external agency and even Haryana itself maintains HathniKund on the Yamuna.

The Chief Minister said that Punjab is always at the mercy of BBMB and its bureaucratic controls adding that in case the control of the headworks is also taken away from Punjab, Punjab will be facing huge difficulties in controlling floods. On the allocation of Yamuna waters, he said that if Haryana is the successor to the Ravi-Beas water so is Punjab to Yamuna waters adding that while the state shares Ravi–Beas waters with Haryana, Punjab was excluded from the 1994 MoU on Yamuna waters without any justification. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that the 1954 Agreement between undivided Punjab and Uttar Pradesh entitled Punjab to two-thirds of Yamuna waters,and the1972 Irrigation Commission recognized Punjab as part of the Yamuna basin.

The Chief Minister said that serious efforts need to be made by the Center and the respective States to stop any flood waters going to Bay of Bengal through Yamuna. With the MoU due for review after 2025, he demanded that Punjab’s claim should be duly considered to ensure fairness and parity. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that Punjab has already requested the Union Government to include it as a beneficiary in the Yamuna and Sharda–Yamuna Link projects also, but our request has not been considered so far.

Raising the issues to provide financial assistance to carry out flood protection works on the Border Outpost (BOP) of BSF and the Army, the Chief Minister said that the proposal is yet to be approved by the Government of India. He urged the Government of India to release the entire funds without putting any conditions as it was in the interest of national security. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that the Harike barrage was constructed in the year 1950 to divert water into the Rajasthan Feeder serving the areas of Rajasthan.

The Chief Minister said that due to absence of desilting it causes floods in the upstream areas right up to district Kapurthala and Jalandhar. He urged the Union government to assist the State Government both financially as well as in granting the environmental clearances. Raising the issue of havoc caused by river Ghaggar, Bhagwant Singh Mann said that in a stretch of about 17 km in district Sangrur from Makror Sahib to Karail where the width of the river is too small to carry the waters.

The Chief Minister said that the state government has been raising this issue since long and have even acquired land in the nearby areas. However, he said that due to the objections raised by Haryana, the cross section has not been widened. Bhagwant Singh Mann urged the Government of India to persuade Haryana to agree to this request.

On the issue of Panjab University, the Chief Minister said that the university has a deep connection with the people of Punjab adding that it is only Punjab which has been supporting and nurturing this University for the last 50 years. Now at this stage, he said that we do not understand why Haryana wants to affiliate it’s colleges with Panjab University, when they have already been affiliated for the last 50 years with Kurukshetra University, an A+ NAAC accredited university. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that he fails to understand What Has changed for Haryana to now seek this affiliation having ignored Panjab University for the last 50 years.

The Chief Minister said that as far as funding of Panjab University is concerned, Punjab has always financially supported this University and is committed to doing this in the future also, as per a mutually consultative process. He said that the Centre’s recent attempts to restructure the university’s governance have been seen as interference in Punjab’s rights and to its state identity and autonomy. Bhagwant Singh Mann cautioned that Panjab University is not just an academic institution but forms an integral part of Punjabi identity adding he urged for the restoration of democratic processes, including the announcement of elections for the original 91-member Senate.

Flagging another important issue regarding the smuggling of weapons from within the country, the Chief Minister said that they are posing a grave threat to law and order in the state. He said that it is unfortunate that the number of weapons smuggled from within the country (especially from states like Madhya Pradesh) is much more than that smuggled from across the border. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that this needs to be checked with a heavy hand in the larger interest of national security.

Raising the legitimate concerns of the state, the Chief Minister reiterated that the success of a federal set-up lies in the equitable prosperity of its states which are not merely constituents but partners in progress. He said that Water, the elixir of life, has been the driver of growth in Punjab as an agriculture-oriented state for decades and it still is. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that protection of our waters is tantamount to protection of the people of Punjab, a Diaspora which has been contributing to progress across the states of our nation and also and most importantly, in protecting our vulnerable borders.

The Chief Minister said that the Punjab government has taken path breaking initiatives for the welfare of its people during the last more than three years adding that Punjab has become the first state in India to guarantee every family free electricity, free healthcare, free education, and free bus travel for women. He said that despite announcing a deadline of 45 days, the state government has disbursed flood compensation worth Rs 20,000 per acre, the highest in the country, to the farmers within 30days after the assessment through Special Girdawari. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that though the natural calamity had severely disrupted life across many districts of Punjab but with the grace of our Guru Sahibs, the state has succeeded in overcoming this disaster.

The Chief Minister said that Mukhyamantri Sehat Yojana is being launched to provide insurance to cover free medical treatment of upto Rs 10 lakh per family to every person adding that nearly three crore residents of the state will be benefited from it. He said that 881 Aam Aadmi Clinics are functioning in the state to provide free quality treatment to people adding that 200 more will be opened soon. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that under the Sehatmand Punjab initiative, the CM Yogshala campaign has been launched to promote fitness and well-being.

The Chief Minister said that government schools in the state are being upgraded into Schools of Eminence and due to concerted efforts of the state government, Punjab has secured the top position nationwide in the National Assessment Survey conducted by the Government of India, surpassing Kerala, for the first time in education outcomes. He said that from government schools, 848 students have qualified NEET, 265 cleared JEE Mains, and 45 cleared JEE Advanced. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that Principals and teachers are being sent to Singapore, Finland, and Ahmedabad for professional training.

The Chief Minister said that the Roshan Punjab Project has been launched to eliminate power cuts,with an investment of Rs 5,000 crore in infrastructure. He said that since July 2022, 90% of households have received free electricity, leading to zero bills and an annual saving of nearly Rs 35,000 per family. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that the state government has created history by acquiring the Goindwal Power Plant from GVK Power, renaming it after Sri Guru Amardas Ji.

The Chief Minister profusely thanked the Ministry of Home Affairs for convening this meeting to resolve the issues concerning Punjab and neighboring states through inter-state consultations. He said that it is a matter of immense pride and satisfaction for us that the state government is organizing a series of events to commemorate the 350th martyrdom year of Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur ji –the Ninth Sikh Guru. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that the state Government has already chalked a number of events to commemorate this once in a lifetime event across the state in a befitting manner.

The Chief Minister said that these series of events are being organized with deep reverence and respect across the state and these historic events will primarily take place on the sacred land of Sri Anandpur Sahib under the auspices of the state government. He said that the underlying message of the series of events is to encourage the people to follow the high ideals of secularism, humanism and the spirit of sacrifice as preached and practiced by Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji, who had laid down his life to protect the right of freedom to worship and to preserve human rights along with secular values. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that the supreme sacrifice of Sri Guru Tegh BahadurJi was unique and unparalleled in the history of mankind and symbolized the crusade against injustice, tyranny and oppression.

The Chief Minister bemoaned that a few months back, the state had witnessed the worst natural catastrophe in the form of floods. He said that the floods submerged over 2,300 villages, affected more than 2 million people, and destroyed crops across five lakh acres of land. Tragically, Bhagwant Singh Mann said that around 60 lives were lost, and seven lakh people were rendered homeless and 3,200 government schools were damaged, 19 colleges were reduced to rubble, 1,400 clinics and hospitals were ruined, 8,500 kilometers of roads were destroyed, and 2,500 bridges collapsed.

The Chief Minister said that as per estimates, the total damage amounts to approximately Rs 13,800 crore, but with their indomitable spirit of Chardi Kala, the Punjabis have started the rebuilding exercise in the state. He said that it is a matter of immense pride for us that irrespective of the flood fury, Punjab is contributing more than 150 LMT of paddy to the national pool. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that besides being the nation’s food bowl, Punjab also has a distinction of being the sword arm of the country and its people are well known all over the world for their courage, resilience and spirit of enterprise.

Revisiting the purpose of setting up the Zonal Councils under the provisions of the State Reorganization Act, 1956, the Chief Minister said that this is an excellent platform to raise the level of interstate cooperation for our economic development. He said that it is in the interest of states to sit together and explore the best possibilities of socio-economic development in the region, which is otherwise geographically disadvantaged, being landlocked and with hostile borders. Batting for a genuine federal structure in the country, with more financial and political power to the States, Bhagwant Singh Mann said that it’s need has been felt across the entire spectrum of political opinion.

The Chief Minister said that there is a wide consensus, cutting across party lines, that the State governments need to be given much greater operational freedom in choosing and financing their development priorities. He said that the northern states share common historical and cultural ties and the Government of Punjab is fully committed to mutual cooperation and good relations with all these States. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that the Northern Zonal Council is a useful platform which is instrumental in mutual resolution of the long-standing issues between the Centre and States and amongst the States through open discussions and consultations.

CHANDIGARH, November 17:

          Continuing the war against drugs “Yudh Nashian Virudh” waged by Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann to eradicate drug menace from state consecutively for the 261st day, Punjab Police conducted raids at 313 locations on Monday leading to the arrest of 68 drug smugglers after registration of 57 first information reports (FIRs) across the state. With this, the number of total drug smugglers arrested has reached to 36,969 in 261 days.

          The raids have resulted in recovery of 2.2 kg heroin, 500 grams opium, 11 kg poppy husk, 2168 intoxicant pills and Rs 1.88 lakhs drug money from the possession of arrested drug smugglers.

          Notably, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann has asked the Commissioners of Police, Deputy Commissioners and Senior Superintendent of Police to make Punjab drug free state. The Punjab government has also constituted a 5-member Cabinet Sub Committee led by Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema to monitor the war against drugs.

          Over 120 Police teams, comprising over 1000 police personnel, under the supervision of 75 gazetted officers have conducted 313 raids across the state. Police teams have also checked as many as 335 suspicious persons during the day-long operation.

          The state government has enforced a three-pronged strategy— Enforcement, Deaddiction and Prevention (EDP)— to eradicate drugs from the state, the Punjab Police as part of ‘De-addiction’ has convinced 23 persons to undergo de-addiction and rehabilitation treatment today.

Chandigarh, November 17 – Haryana Health Minister Arti Singh Rao said that 12 types of primary health services launched under the Urban Health Mission are bringing significant changes in the lives of the urban poor.

Sharing this information today, she said that 107 Urban Primary Health Centres (UPHCs) and 165 Urban Ayushman Arogya Mandirs (UAAMs) are currently operational in the state. The government is committed to ensuring that no individual is deprived of healthcare services due to poverty or frequent changes in residence.

Minister Arti Singh Rao informed about the progress of the mission, stating that all UPHCs and UAAMs have been upgraded as Ayushman Arogya Mandirs. They now provide 12 comprehensive primary healthcare services to urban poor patients. These include maternal and child health services, family planning, prevention and management of communicable and non-communicable diseases, dental and eye care, mental health services, palliative care for the elderly, and emergency medical services.

She further said that the National Urban Health Mission was launched in June 2013 under the National Health Mission. This mission is bringing major improvements in the health sector across Haryana’s cities and towns. It is dedicated to serving the urban poor, especially those living in slums, daily-wage labourers, construction workers, rickshaw pullers, waste pickers, street children, and other vulnerable groups.

The Health Minister added that through regular outreach activities in slum areas, these health centres are spreading awareness about healthy practices, ensuring routine immunisation, and providing essential maternal and child healthcare services. In addition, all Ayushman Arogya Mandirs offer free essential medicines and diagnostic services. Yoga sessions and tele-consultation services are also being conducted to promote holistic health.

She also informed that some UPHCs have been upgraded into Specialist Urban Primary Health Centres, where citizens can now avail specialist consultations close to their homes.

Arti Singh Rao said that the Haryana Health Department and the Urban Health Mission, Haryana are committed to making the state healthy, strong, and inclusive. The government is determined to ensure that quality healthcare reaches every citizen, especially the poor and vulnerable living in urban areas.

Just like in rural regions, the state government has now set a new benchmark for accessible, affordable, and quality healthcare services for the urban poor population as well.

Chandigarh, November 17— The Haryana Government has issued an extensive and revised framework for presenting the Guard of Honour to dignitaries, ensuring uniformity and clarity across all state departments and police units.

The notification issued by Chief Secretary Sh. Anurag Rastogi defines two broad categories of dignitaries entitled to receive the Guard of Honour. The first category includes those who are entitled under Government of India norms, namely the President of India, Vice-President of India, Prime Minister of India, Defence Minister and Deputy Ministers, Heads of Foreign and Commonwealth Missions, Heads of State or Governors-General of Commonwealth nations, and Prime Ministers or Foreign Ministers of foreign or Commonwealth countries. The Guard of Honour for these dignitaries will continue exactly as per Government of India guidelines issued from time to time.

The second category comprises dignitaries of Haryana State who will receive the Guard of Honour according to specific circumstances. This category includes the Governor of Haryana, the Chief Minister, the Speaker of the Haryana Legislative Assembly, the Chief Justice of the Punjab and Haryana High Court, Cabinet Ministers, the Deputy Speaker of the Legislative Assembly, Ministers of State, Judges of the High Court (in their capacity as Administrative Judges for districts), the Chief Secretary, Administrative Secretaries of Home and Revenue & Disaster Management Departments, the Director General of Police, Divisional Commissioners, Range ADGPs, Inspectors General of Police, Commissioners of Police, District Magistrates, and Superintendents of Police.

The Government has prescribed clear and uniform compositions for the Guard of Honour for each of these dignitaries. For the Governor of Haryana, the Guard of Honour will consist of 1 Gazetted Officer, 2 Non-Gazetted Officers, 4 Head Constables, and 100 Constables (1+2+4+100 personnel), accompanied by one band, on occasions such as assuming charge, relinquishing charge, the Governor’s address during the Assembly session, and other special occasions notified by the Government. During official visits not covered under these categories, the Guard of Honour will comprise 0 Gazetted Officers, 1 Non-Gazetted Officer, 2 Head Constables, and 10 Constables (0+1+2+10 personnel), accompanied by one bugler.

For the Chief Minister of Haryana, special or ceremonial occasions will be marked with a Guard of Honour consisting of 1 Gazetted Officer, 2 Non-Gazetted Officers, 4 Head Constables, and 50 Constables (1+2+4+50 personnel), with one band. For other official visits, the Guard of Honour will be composed of 0 Gazetted Officers, 1 Non-Gazetted Officer, 2 Head Constables, and 10 Constables (0+1+2+10 personnel), with one bugler.

The Chief Justice of the Punjab and Haryana High Court will receive a Guard of Honour of 1 Gazetted Officer, 2 Non-Gazetted Officers, 4 Head Constables, and 32 Constables (1+2+4+32 personnel), with one band, during first-time visits and special or ceremonial occasions, while other official visits will be accorded 0 Gazetted Officers, 1 Non-Gazetted Officer, 2 Head Constables, and 10 Constables (0+1+2+10 personnel), accompanied by a bugler. The same composition applies to the Speaker of the Haryana Legislative Assembly, Cabinet Ministers, the Deputy Speaker, Ministers of State, and High Court Judges when visiting districts under their administrative jurisdiction.

For the Chief Secretary, the Guard of Honour on assuming or relinquishing charge will consist of 1 Gazetted Officer, 2 Non-Gazetted Officers, 4 Head Constables, and 20 Constables (1+2+4+20 personnel), supported by one band, while other official visits will include 0 Gazetted Officers, 1 Non-Gazetted Officer, 2 Head Constables, and 10 Constables (0+1+2+10 personnel), along with a bugler. The same standard applies to the Administrative Secretaries of Home and Revenue & Disaster Management Departments, and the Director General of Police.

For Divisional Commissioners, Range ADGPs, Inspectors General of Police, Commissioners of Police, the Guard of Honour will consist of 0 Gazetted Officers, 0 Non-Gazetted Officers, 1 Head Constable, and 10 Constables (0+0+1+10 personnel), with one band, during assumption or relinquishing of charge or during formal inspections and ceremonial visits to police establishments. On smaller official occasions, the composition will be limited to 0 Gazetted Officers, 0 Non-Gazetted Officers, 1 Head Constable, and 4 Constables (0+0+1+4 personnel), with a bugler.

For the District Magistrate and Superintendent of Police, the Guard of Honour shall be presented on two occasions: upon arrival to assume charge for the first time, and upon relinquishing charge. The composition of the Guard of Honour for the District Magistrate and Superintendent of Police has been fixed as 0 Gazetted Officers, 0 Non-Gazetted Officers, 1 Head Constable, and 4 Constables (0+0+1+4 personnel), accompanied by one bugler.

The Government has further clarified that formal arrangements regarding formation, uniform, dress code, and ceremonial procedures will be issued separately by the Director General of Police after approval from the Home Department. All departments and authorities have been instructed to ensure strict adherence to the new guidelines and to obtain necessary approvals from the General Administration Department (Protocol Branch) in case any relaxation is required.

The government explained that the decision was taken to bring consistency in ceremonial practices across Haryana, particularly during assumption or relinquishing of charge by top officials, formal inspections, official visits, and state-level ceremonial events. The circular directs all departments to strictly follow the newly prescribed norms and to seek prior approval from the General Administration Department (Protocol Branch) if any deviation or relaxation is required.

Chandigarh, November 17 – Haryana’s Energy, Transport and Labour Minister Sh. Anil Vij said that the Nagar Kirtan Yatra dedicated to the 350th martyrdom anniversary of the Ninth Guru, Hind Ki Chadar, Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji will be welcomed with devotion in Ambala Cantonment on Tuesday.

While speaking to media persons today, Energy Minister Sh. Anil Vij said full preparations are underway for the Nagar Kirtan Yatra. He said he has personally attended all meetings regarding the arrangements for welcoming the Yatra. Sh. Vij added that he will make every effort to participate in the entire journey and seek the blessings of Guru Ji.

The Energy Minister informed that the 350th Prakash Purab of Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji is being celebrated across Haryana with devotion and enthusiasm. To inspire society with Guru Ji’s unparalleled sacrifice, the Nagar Kirtan was started from Pinjore on November 11. It will begin from Gurdwara Shri Panjokhra Sahib on November 18 at 9 AM.

He said that the Yatra will proceed from Panjokhra Sahib through Topkhana Bazaar, Defence Colony Gurdwara Sahib, Kalarheri, Boh, Babyal, Chandpura, Rampur-Sarsehri, Jagadhri Road, Mahesh Nagar, S.D. College, Subhash Park, Gurdwara Singh Sabha Hargolal Road, Chhauda Bazaar, Bajaja Bazaar, Kasera Bazaar, Guru Nanak Road, Kabadi Bazaar, Machhi Mohalla, Gurdwara Kshatri Tank, Punjabi Gurdwara Sahib, Vijay Rattan Chowk, Rai Market, Gol Chakkar, and Topkhana Bazaar, finally concluding back at Gurdwara Panjokhra Sahib.

Sh. Vij appealed to all religious, political, educational, business, and other institutions and organizations to participate in the Yatra and seek Guru Ji’s blessings.

Chandigarh, November 17 – On the second day of the ongoing International Gita Mahotsav-2025 in Kurukshetra, large numbers of spectators gathered on the southern bank of Brahma Sarovar to listen to the melodious folk music from various states of India. Artists from Jammu & Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, Rajasthan, Punjab, Uttarakhand, and Uttar Pradesh have arrived specially to present their cultural performances at the International Gita Mahotsav. Cultural programmes are being organised on the ghats of Brahma Sarovar during the Mahotsav.

Sharing information in this regard, an official spokesperson said that that in the first phase of the International Gita Mahotsav-2025, organised by  North Zone Cultural Centre (NZCC), Patiala, artists from Jammu & Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, Rajasthan, Punjab, Uttarakhand, and Uttar Pradesh are showcasing the folk culture of their respective states through traditional dances and folk songs on the ghats of Brahma Sarovar. The stilt walkers have become a special attraction, especially for young children this year as well.

International Gita Mahotsav: A platform to Preserve and Revive Vanishing Folk Heritage

The International Gita Mahotsav, held on the sacred banks of Brahma Sarovar, serves as a major platform for preserving and keeping alive the fading folk cultural heritage of India. Folk artists from different parts of the country are mesmerizing tourists with their unique and vibrant traditional performances.

Folk artists from various states have added extraordinary charm to the festival with their remarkable performances. Their unique and captivating folk rhythms have enthralled the visitors. The melodies of the been, bansuri, drummers, deru players, and performers of kacchi Ghodi, Rajasthani folk arts, and many other traditional styles have compelled visitors to join in and dance with joy.

Chandigarh, November 17 – The Haryana Government has approved an increase in Dearness Allowance (DA) for State Government employees who are drawing their salaries as per the 5th Pay Commission. The revised DA rate has been enhanced from the existing 466% to 474% of basic pay, with effect from 1st July, 2025. An order in this regard has been issued by Chief Secretary Sh. Anurag Rastogi, who also holds the charge of Additional Chief Secretary, Finance Department.

The enhanced DA will be included in the salary for the month of November 2025, while arrears for the months July 2025 to October 2025 will be disbursed in December 2025. As per standard financial norms, any Dearness Allowance amount involving fractions of 50 paise or more will be rounded off to the next higher rupee, while fractions below 50 paise will be ignored.

Chandigarh, November 17

The 32nd meeting of the Northern Zonal Council was held on Monday at Surajkund, Faridabad under the chairmanship of Union Home Minister and Chairman,NZC, Sh. Amit Shah. Haryana Chief Minister and Vice-Chairman, NZC, Sh. Nayab Singh Saini, Punjab Chief Minister, Sh. Bhagwant Mann, Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sh. Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, Rajasthan Chief Minister Sh. Bhajan Lal Sharma, Lt. Governor, Delhi Sh. Vinai Kumar Saxena, Chief Minister, Smt. Rekha Gupta, Lt. Governor, Jammu & Kashmir Sh. Manoj Sinha, Chief Minister Sh. Omar Abdullah, Lt. Governor, Ladakh Sh. Kavinder Gupta, Administrator, Chandigarh Sh. Gulab Chand Kataria, Haryana Revenue Minister Sh. Vipul Goel, Cooperation Minister Sh. Arvind Kumar Sharma, along with senior officers from the Member States and Union Territories attended the meeting.

Chief Minister, Sh. Nayab Singh Saini welcomed the Union Home Minister and the dignitaries by presenting shawls and mementos on their arrival.

During the meeting, Chief Minister Sh. Nayab Singh Saini said that sustained cooperation between states is extremely important for the progress of the nation. By pooling our resources, sharing knowledge, and adopting each other’s best practices, we can turn the vision of ‘Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat’ into reality. Haryana has made several successful efforts in line with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s resolve of Viksit Bharat @2047.

Punjab must remember the sacred traditions of the Gurus while addressing water disputes, CM

While discussing key agenda items, Sh. Nayab Singh Saini said that proper arrangements must be ensured for supplying each state its rightful share of water. Haryana has consistently been giving Delhi more water than its own share. However, due to the non-construction of the SYL canal, Haryana is not receiving its full share of water from Punjab. Once Haryana receives its rightful share of water through SYL, Rajasthan will also get its due share.

He said that Punjab is the land of the Gurus, the sacred soil where Guru Sevak Bhai Kanhaiya Ji served even enemy soldiers on the battlefield by giving them water. Through the Council, he urged Punjab to remember the great traditions of the Gurus while addressing the water dispute.

He added that water is a shared resource, and keeping it clean is the collective responsibility of all states. Recalling that rivers are revered as mothers in Indian culture, he specifically mentioned the Yamuna and assured that Haryana is making every effort to keep the Yamuna clean.

Affiliation of Haryana colleges with Panjab University, Chandigarh will benefit both students and the University

Referring to Panjab University, Chandigarh, Sh. Nayab Singh Saini said that the Haryana government wishes to contribute to the University. If some colleges of Haryana become affiliated with Panjab University, it will benefit both the University and the students of Haryana.

The Chief Minister said that ensuring the safety of children is everyone’s responsibility. With the implementation of the three new criminal laws in Haryana, cases under the POCSO Act are being disposed of more swiftly.

Haryana Government has ensured affordable healthcare access for every citizen

Sh. Nayab Singh Saini said that to ensure affordable healthcare for every citizen, the state government strengthened Ayushman Bharat–Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana by integrating its own Chirayu Yojana with it. This is an example of accelerated development under the ‘double-engine’ government. He added that banking facilities are now available even in the smallest villages of Haryana.

Haryana Government fulfilled 47 sankalp in just one year

The Chief Minister said that out of the 217 sankalp made in the Sankalp Patra during the last Assembly election, the government has fulfilled 47 in the very first year. Citing one example, he said that on 25 September, the ‘Deen Dayal Lado Lakshmi’ App was launched on the 109th birth anniversary of Pandit Deen Dayal Upadhyaya. On Haryana Day (1 November), the government transferred Rs. 2,100 each into the bank accounts of 5,22,162 eligible women beneficiaries under the Deen Dayal Lado Lakshmi Yojana. So far, 8.05 lakh applications have been received and the number will soon reach 15 lakh.

NZC meeting will become a model of ‘Ek Bharat- Shreshtha Bharat’

Sh. Nayab Singh Saini said that Haryana has submitted detailed comments on each agenda item to the Council. He expressed hope that the deliberations of this meeting would promote cooperative federalism, help build consensus on inter-state and Centre-state issues, and make the Northern Zonal Council meeting an example of ‘Ek Bharat-Shreshtha Bharat’.

Chandigarh, November 16 – Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare Minister, Sh. Shyam Singh Rana said that the ‘Ekta Yatra’, held on the birth anniversary of Iron Man Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, stands as a symbol of nation-building and public awareness. With his courage, firm resolve and extraordinary leadership, Sardar Patel united hundreds of princely states and shaped India into a strong nation.

Sh. Shyam Singh Rana said this on Saturday during ‘Ekta Yatra’ held in the Radaur. The yatra began from village Kheri Lakkha Singh and concluded at the Radaur grain market. A large number of youth, women, children and social organisations participated enthusiastically in the march.

He said that Sardar Patel’s ideology teaches us that national unity, integrity and a spirit of service are the true identity of a strong India. Our younger generation should draw inspiration from his life and contribute to the nation’s progress. Under the leadership of Prime Minister, Sh. Narendra Modi, India has today become the world’s fourth largest economy and is rapidly moving towards becoming the third largest.

He added that the vision of a developed India by 2047 should be a collective resolve of every citizen. Appealing to people to promote indigenous products, he said that when we adopt Swadeshi, we strengthen local artisans, women’s groups and the nation’s economy.