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.

CHANDIGARH/AMRITSAR, March 29:

          In a major breakthrough amidst the ongoing drive to make Punjab a safe and secure state as per directions of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, Amritsar Commissionerate Police has foiled an illegal arms smuggling attempt with recovery of two 9MM sub-machine guns and one empty magazine, said Director General of Police (DGP) Punjab Gaurav Yadav here on Sunday.

          The recovered weapons were found marked with “GHAFFAR SECURITY”.

          DGP Gaurav Yadav said that preliminary investigation has revealed that the recovered consignment was linked to notorious gangster Gurpreet Singh alias Goldy Dhillon. The weapons were being supplied through his network for carrying out anti national and criminal activities in the state, he said.

          The DGP said that further investigation is underway to identify the absconding accused and dismantle the entire network.

          Sharing operational details, Commissioner of Police (CP) Amritsar Gurpreet Singh Bhullar said that acting on specific intelligence, police teams laid a strong naka in the area of Guru Ki Wadali in Chheharta, and attempted to intercept two unidentified youth riding a motorcycle. On spotting police, the suspects panicked and attempted to flee, he said, while adding that during their escape, they dropped a kit bag.

          The CP said that a search of the recovered kit bag led to the recovery of two illegal 9MM sub-machine guns and one empty magazine.

          He said that Gangster Gurpreet Singh alias Goldy Dhillon is involved in multiple serious crimes including murder, robbery, attempt to murder, kidnapping, rioting, extortion and illegal arms supply. Police teams have booked Gurpreet alias Goldy Dhillon and his three associates and raids are being conducted to nab the absconding bike-borne persons, he added.

          In this regard, a case FIR no. 66 dated 29-03-2026 has been registered under section 25(I-A) of the Arms Act at Police Station Chheharta in Amritsar.

CHANDIGARH, March 29:

          As the decisive ‘Gangstran Te Vaar’ campaign launched under the directions of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann enters its 68th day, Punjab Police on Sunday conducted 508 raids at the at identified and mapped locations linked to associates of gangsters across the state.

          As per the information, the “Gangstran Te Vaar”— a decisive war to make Punjab a gangster-free state was launched by the Director General of Police (DGP) Punjab Gaurav Yadav on January 20, 2026. Police teams from all the districts in coordination with Anti-Gangster Task Force (AGTF) Punjab has been conducting special operations across the state.

          On Day 68, Police teams arrested 188 individuals after recovering three weapons, taking the total arrests to 17,674 since the launch of the campaign.

 Apart from this, preventive action has been taken against 95 persons, whereas, 99 persons were verified and released after questioning. Police teams have also arrested three proclaimed offenders (POs) during the operation.

          People can anonymously report information related to wanted criminals and gangsters, and also share tips on crime and criminal activity, through the Anti Gangster Helpline number 93946-93946.

Meanwhile, Police teams have continued its drive against drugs “Yudh Nashian Virudh” for 393rd day with 112 drug smugglers arrested on Sunday and recovered 463 grams heroin, 1.2 kg opium, 471 intoxicant tablets/capsules and Rs 62,400 drug money from their possession. With this, the number of total drug smugglers arrested has reached to 56,071 in just 393 days. As part of De-addiction, the Punjab Police has convinced 26 persons to undergo de-addiction and rehabilitation treatment today.

Chandigarh March 29, 2026:

The Punjab Vigilance Bureau (VB) during its ongoing drive against  corruption in the state, has apprehended Assistant Sub Inspector Lakhwinder Singh  posted as Incharge police post Kitchlu Nagar, police station PAU Ludhiana , red-handed while accepting a bribe of Rs. 15,000/-.

Disclosing this here today, an official spokesperson of the state VB said the above-mentioned accused has been arrested based on a complaint lodged by a resident of Bank Colony Noorwala road district Ludhiana.

He said that a case was registered against the complainant whose investigation officer was accused ASI Lakhwinder Singh. In this regard, complainant alleged that accused ASI demanded bribe of Rs 30,000/- in lieu of not implicating the complainant’s sister and mother in this case. Complainant had  recorded the entire conversation of demanding bribe.

Unwilling to pay any illegal gratification, the complainant approached the Vigilance Bureau range Ludhiana. After a preliminary enquiry on his complaint, the VB team laid a trap during which the accused ASI was arrested red handed while accepting  bribe money of Rs 15,000/- from the complainant in presence of two official witnesses.

In this regard, a case under prevention of corruption act has been registered against the accused at VB police station Ludhiana and further investigation into this case is under progress.

Chandigarh/ Ludhiana, March 29, 2026:

Recent statements made by Union Minister Ravneet Singh Bittu regarding the development and progress of Halwara Airport are misleading and do not reflect the ground reality.

It is pertinent to mention that during a press briefing held at Ludhiana on March 26, Cabinet Minister Sanjeev Arora had already confirmed that flight bookings for Halwara will commence from next week. “The same was reiterated by Cabinet Minister Ravneet Singh Bittu today after three days. Some “opportunists” are merely repeating whatever has been brought into public domain by me,” he quipped.

This landmark achievement is the result of sustained, consistent, and multi-level efforts spearheaded by former Member of Parliament, Rajya Sabha, and present Cabinet Minister, Punjab, Shri Sanjeev Arora, who pursued the matter relentlessly across successive years.

The journey towards operationalisation reflects Shri Arora’s unwavering commitment to strengthening regional connectivity and supporting Punjab’s industrial and economic growth, particularly for Ludhiana and surrounding districts.

Chronology of Key Interventions and Milestones

November 22, 2022: Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann intervention initiated to revive stalled progress.

December 11, 2022: Funds worth ₹50 crore released to resume construction work.

January 17, 2023: MP Sanjeev Arora urged the Ministry of Civil Aviation to resume Delhi–Ludhiana flights.

April 14, 2023: MP Sanjeev Arora wrote to all airlines seeking commencement of flights from Halwara.

May 7, 2023: MP Arora advocated for expedited completion of Halwara Airport.

August 22, 2023: Approval received from Civil Aviation Secretary Shri Rajiv Bansal to push airlines to start Delhi and Mumbai flights from Halwara.

August 26, 2023: MP Sanjeev Arora visited Halwara Airport to review development progress.

January 9, 2024: Ministry of Civil Aviation provided an update on construction progress.

January 31, 2024: Request made for inauguration of the Interim Terminal Building at Halwara near Ludhiana.

July 19, 2024: Sanjeev Arora reviewed construction with officials from AAI, PWD, and the Indian Air Force.

August 13, 2024: MP Arora discussed flight operations with Tata Sons Chairman Shri N. Chandrasekaran.

August 29, 2024: MP Arora met senior officials of Air India in Gurugram; assurance received that flights would commence soon.

September 3, 2024: MP Sanjeev Arora wrote to the Union Minister of Civil Aviation seeking expedited commencement of operations.

December 21, 2024: Meeting held with AAI Chairman Shri Vipin Kumar regarding airport code and operational date.

January 8, 2025: Air India conveyed that flight operations would begin after commissioning and approval.

January 10, 2025: Air India agreed to operate flights from Halwara International Airport.

February 4, 2025: Halwara Airport received the HWR airport code.

February 19, 2025: MP Sanjeev Arora and DC Shri Jitendra Jorwal reviewed final-phase works.

May 23, 2025: Chief Minister Shri Bhagwant Mann requested the Ministry of Civil Aviation to operationalise the Civil Air Terminal and shift flights from Sahnewal to Halwara.

June 2025: Structural works completed; interior finishing of the 2,000-square-metre terminal building and installation of glass façades concluded.

July 27, 2025: First scheduled virtual inauguration by the Hon’blle Prime Minister deferred due to technical delays.

December 2, 2025: MP Shri Rajinder Gupta urged expedited operationalisation in Rajya Sabha, citing capacity for 2,500 daily passengers.

December 29, 2025: Air India cleared the airport for five-days-a-week operations and sought additional slots.

January 15, 2026: Final security audit completed; BCAS granted operational approval.

January 28, 2026: Final site inspection conducted by DC Shri Himanshu Jain and SSP (Rural) Shri Ankur Gupta.

January 29, 2026: Official confirmation received from the PMO for February 1 inauguration; Air India requested seven-days-a-week flight slots.

February 1, 2026: Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi virtually inaugurated the terminal building.

Mr Sanjeev Arora said that the operationalisation of Halwara Airport is expected to significantly enhance regional air connectivity, reduce travel time for industry and passengers, and provide a major boost to Punjab’s industrial, export, and investment ecosystem—particularly benefitting Ludhiana, one of North India’s largest manufacturing hubs.

Shri Sanjeev Arora’s sustained follow-up, policy engagement, and coordination with the Ministry of Civil Aviation, Airports Authority of India, airline operators, and the Punjab Government ensured that the long-pending project was finally brought to fruition.

CHANDIGARH

The Punjab Cabinet led by Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann on Sunday took several key decisions, including paving the way for the launch of the Mukh Mantri Mawan Dheeyan Satkar Yojna across Punjab, ensuring a monthly financial assistance of ₹1000 to all other women and ₹1500 to women from Scheduled Castes, benefiting more than 97% of women in Punjab. The decision was taken in a meeting of the Council of Ministers chaired by the Chief Minister.

Disclosing this, the Chief Minister’s Office said, “Mukh Mantri Mawan Dheeyan Satkar Yojna (State Scheme) will be launched in the State. The Scheme makes a provision of a cash benefit of ₹1000 per month to all other women and ₹1500 per month to women from Scheduled Castes. This scheme will have a monumental effect on the upliftment of women by making them independent and empowering them. It will give them choice and, clubbed with financial literacy, it will promote savings, thrift and investment and will enable dignity in fulfilling their small desires.”

It further said, “Punjab has already made considerable progress in social welfare and human development indicators; however, a large number of women across the state, particularly those belonging to economically vulnerable households, continue to lack independent financial security. Strengthening women’s financial autonomy is essential for improving household welfare, promoting gender equity, and enhancing women’s participation in social and economic decision-making.”

Highlighting the scale of the initiative, the CM Office added, “The scheme is expected to benefit more than 97% of women, making it one of the most comprehensive women-centric social protection initiatives in the country. The scheme represents a landmark step towards ensuring direct economic support to women across the state and reflects the Government’s vision that women’s empowerment must translate into tangible financial independence.”

The scheme has been designed as a Direct Benefit Transfer initiative, under which financial assistance will be transferred directly into the bank accounts of beneficiaries. There will be no restriction on the number of eligible women in a family who may avail benefits under the scheme, and existing social security pensioners will also continue to receive full financial benefits under this scheme in addition to their pensions, significantly enhancing its reach and impact.

Women aged 18 years or above, registered as a voter in Punjab and possessing a valid Aadhaar card reflecting Punjab residency along with a valid Voter ID issued by the Election Commission of India, shall be eligible to be enrolled as a beneficiary under the scheme.

To ensure effective last-mile delivery, the Bhagwant Mann Government will undertake extensive outreach and enrolment efforts, including mobilisation support to assist women in completing documentation, activating bank accounts and ensuring seamless registration, particularly in rural and underserved areas.

Reinforcing the scale of the initiative, a sum of ₹9,300 crore has already been sanctioned in the Budget for the financial year 2026–27 and, given the scale and outreach of the scheme, it is expected to become one of the largest women-centric social welfare initiatives undertaken by the Government of Punjab.

*Approval to Fill 70 Direct Posts in the Department of Planning*

The Cabinet also accorded approval to fill 70 Direct Posts in the Department of planning. The process for merger of the Economic Policy and Planning Board and the Directorate of Statistics, Punjab has already been initiated. In view of this exercise, the requirement on vacant posts to be filled has been revised. So the approval was given to fill 70 posts of direct recruitment by the Officers’ Committee.

*Amendment in Terms for Appointment of CMDs and Directors of PSPCL and PSTCL*

The Cabinet also gave approval to amend the “Terms regarding qualifications and experience required for the appointment of Chairman-cum-Managing Directors (CMDs) and Directors” of Punjab State Power Corporation Limited (POWERCOM) & Punjab State Transmission Corporation Limited (TRANSCO).

*Approval to Appoint Manpower and Supporting Staff at Pachhwara Coal Mine*

The Cabinet also gave green signal to appoint statutory manpower and Supporting Staff by PSPCL on contract basis for operation and maintenance of Pachhwara Central Coal Mine (PCCM) at District Pakur, Jharkhand. It was also decided to constitute an Empowered Committee comprising Administrative Secretary as Chairman and Chairman-cum-Managing Director and Director / Generation, PSPCL as members. This empowered committee was authorized to give all approvals pertaining to recruitment and extension in contractual engagement of Statutory Manpower / Supporting Staff for the operation and maintenance of Pachhwara Central Coal Mine, Pakur.

*Amendments in Policy for Conversion of Leasehold Industrial Plots to Freehold*

The Cabinet also gave consent to amendments in the policy for Conversion of leasehold industrial plots/ sheds to freehold. As per it, industrial plots mortgaged with banks or financial institutions shall be eligible for conversion to freehold, subject to submission of a No Objection Certificate from the concerned bank and compliance with prescribed safeguards. A conversion fee of 5 percent shall be applicable where the current title documents do not contain any clause relating to unearned increase, irrespective of its presence in earlier title documents.

*Punjab Common Infrastructure (Regulation and Maintenance) (Amendment) Bill, 2026*

The Cabinet also gave nod to introduce the Punjab Common Infrastructure (Regulation and Maintenance) (Amendment) Bill, 2026 to comprehensively reform the Punjab Common Infrastructure (Regulation and Maintenance) Act, 2012 to strengthen the effectiveness, transparency and financial sustainability of Special Purpose Vehicle (SPVs) for better management of industrial areas across Punjab. The proposed amendments will address administrative and operational challenges that have emerged over the years due to the expansion of industrial parks and the emergence of new industrial clusters outside notified industrial estates. It will also create a streamlined system for collection and utilization of service charges for the maintenance of common infrastructure such as roads, street lights, parks, security, drainage systems and other shared facilities in industrial areas.

Special Purpose Vehicles (SPVs) will be created in all industrial areas which will be registered under the Societies Registration Act, 1860. This SPV will be responsible for the operation and maintenance of common infrastructure within industrial areas on a no-profit, no-loss basis. Also, a District Monitoring Authority will be established to oversee the functioning of SPVs and provide an institutional mechanism for monitoring and dispute resolution.

*Approval for Desilting in River Satluj for NHAI Projects*

The Cabinet also gave nod for relaxing the conditions for desilting in River Sutlej to provide simple earth to the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) for the construction of various highway projects in the state. This is part of various initiatives being taken by the Department of Water Resources involving the excavation of longitudinal channels in major rivers across Punjab as part of its broader river management and flood mitigation efforts.

Chandigarh:

The second day of the 3rd Rastogi–Dash Clinical Case Conference at PGIMER witnessed continued high-level academic engagement, with focused deliberations on complex and evolving aspects of gastro-entero-pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors (GEP-NETs).
The day began with insightful case-based discussions, including neuroendocrine tumor presentations evolving from carcinoid syndrome to ectopic Cushing’s syndrome and various challenging diagnostic scenarios such as mediastinal masses associated with Cushing’s syndrome. These sessions highlighted the importance of clinical vigilance and dynamic diagnostic reasoning in endocrine practice.
Subsequent sessions on diagnostic advances emphasized real-world challenges, including localization of occult hypoglycemia and management of metastatic functional NETs. Complex insulinoma cases and long-term disease trajectories were discussed, underscoring the need for individualized therapeutic strategies.
A plenary lecture by Dr. Wouter Willem De Herder from Rotterdam, Netherlands further enriched the academic discourse, providing global perspectives on neuroendocrine tumor management.
Therapeutic advances formed a key highlight of the day, with discussions on Lu-177–based peptide receptor radionuclide therapy (PRRT), particularly in MEN1-associated GEP-NETs, as well as evolving interventional approaches such as EUS-guided radiofrequency ablation (RFA) for insulinoma. Comparative insights into PRRT versus somatostatin analogues in metastatic disease and management of carcinoid syndrome with cardiac involvement further underscored the expanding therapeutic landscape.
Throughout the day, speakers consistently emphasized the critical role of a multidisciplinary approach—integrating endocrinology, gastroenterology, radiology, nuclear medicine, and surgical expertise—in optimizing patient outcomes in GEP-NETs.
The conference concluded with a valedictory session, marking the culmination of two days of intensive academic exchange, case-based learning, and collaborative discussions. The poster presentation awards were given to presenters from PGIMER KEM and Amrita Kochi.In oral presentation awards were given to presenters from JIPMER, PGIMER and IMS BHU.The meeting reaffirmed the importance of clinical acumen, multidisciplinary care, and continuous academic engagement in advancing the field of endocrinology.

Chandigarh

The National Institute of Nursing Education (NINE), PGIMER, Chandigarh, celebrated its 23rd Institute Foundation Day with great enthusiasm and fervor at the NINE Auditorium on March 28, 2026. The ‘National Institute of Nursing Education’ was originally inducted as College of Nursing for Post Basic Education Project, India, with WHO’s assistance in 1964 under the far sightedness of late Sh. Partap Singh Kairon, the then Chief Minister of Punjab. In 2003, the College of Nursing attained the status of ‘National Institute of Nursing Education’, which is one of its kind in the country.

Dr. Sukhpal Kaur delivered the welcome address and highlighted the significant milestones achieved by the institute over the years. She also shared that NINE prepares efficient nurses every year to serve the mankind with its highly qualified and committed faculty. She was pleased to share the future vision for the Institute in terms of initiating the nurse practitioner courses, fellowships in nursing specialties.

The Director of the Institute, Professor Vivek Lal graced the event as Chief Guest. He reiterated that nursing, workforce of hospital as backbone of the health system and appreciated the budding nurses for their inherent compassion and commitment.

The event was also graced by Prof. Vipin Koushal, Medical Superintendent; Shri Ravinder Singh, IA&AS, Financial Adviser and Shri Umeed Mathur, Registrar, PGI.

The occasion was also graced by Ms. Jyotinder Kaur Bajwa, IRS, Joint Commissioner of Income Tax who is an alumni of the College. She addressed the gathering and appreciated the contributions of nursing professionals. She highlighted the silent, yet profound impact of nursing, emphasizing that the nurses are the backbone of healthcare and inspired the students by affirming that with dedication, perseverance and self-belief, anyone can achieve anything. 

The event featured a variety of cultural events by the students of NINE.

The event was also graced by the former faculty members of NINE whose presence added pride and a sense of legacy to the occasion.

A prize distribution ceremony was conducted to recognize the meritorious students of NINE.

The students of the Institute participated very enthusiastically with power packed performances of folk dances from various states and western dance items and poetry recitations etc.