Chandigarh, November 7:

In a significant infrastructure push ahead of the historic 350th Martyrdom Anniversary of Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib Ji, the Punjab Government has undertaken a comprehensive Rs 20 crore project to renovate all the internal and approach roads of Sri Anandpur Sahib, announced S. Harjot Singh Bains, Minister of Education and Information & Public Relations, Punjab.

While reviewing the undergoing road works in Sri Anandpur Sahib today, S. Harjot Singh Bains, said that Virasat-e-Khalsa to Takht Sri Kesgarh Sahib, the Bus Stand to Bhagat Ravidas Chowk, Takht Sri Keshar Sahib to VIP road and other internal roads have been renovated and the remaining roads are being revitalised on the war footing in the holy city. He said that work on all the approach routes are now progressing and all infrastructure development projects will be completed well before the commemorative ceremonies begin to ensure smooth access for millions of devotees.

Highlighting Chief Minister S. Bhagwant Singh Mann led Punjab Government’s commitment to ensure convenience and safety of devotees, S. Harjot Singh Bains informed that the road upgrades feature advanced Blinker Reflect Lights and premium Premix Carpeting to enhance visibility during night travel and foggy conditions, ensuring the well-being of all pilgrims.

He assured swift completion of additional projects, while inviting people to join the Punjab Government to commemorate the historic occasion to pay homage to Ninth Guru Sahib Ji’s unparalleled sacrifice.

Meanwhile, the Education Minister also reviewed preparations for the Light and Sound Show to be held at Charan Ganga Stadium, Sri Anandpur Sahib on November 20.

Chandigarh, November 7:

With an aim to connect the  young students with Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib Ji’s enduring legacy, timeless teachings and unparalleled sacrifice, the Punjab School Education Board (PSEB) organised three-day seminar series commemorating the 350th Martyrdom Anniversary of the Ninth Guru Sahib. These seminars were held from 3rd to 7th November at sacred sites in Punjab closely associated with Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji’s final journey.

Elaborating on the PSEB’s initiative, Punjab Education Minister S. Harjot Singh Bains informed that the seminar series were thoughtfully organised along the historic route where Bhai Jaita Ji (Baba Jiwan Singh Ji) carried the sacred Sis (Head) of Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib Ji from Delhi to Sri Anandpur Sahib, creating a deeply impactful and immersive learning experience for students.

He further shared that the three-day seminar series commenced on November 3 at Senior Secondary School, Dayalpur Sodhian (Sis Asthan, Nabha Sahib), continued on November 6 at School of Eminence, Kiratpur Sahib and culminated on November 7 at Government Kanya Senior Secondary School, Sri Anandpur Sahib.

Over 2,600 students participated in the seminars, gaining insight into the lives, teachings and unparalleled sacrifice of Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji, Mata Gujri Ji, and the Chotte Sahibzade, S. Harjot Singh Bains said while adding that the seminars were focused on Ninth Guru Sahib’s supreme sacrifice for the protection of dharam (faith and righteousness) and courage, making the historical event a living, breathing lesson for the young minds.

The Education Minister S. Bains appreciated the PSEB’s initiative, stating, “Where there is the teaching of Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji, there is the victory of humanity. It’s a matter of deep pride to see today’s children understanding and embracing the Guru sahib’s teachings. This was not merely a ceremony; it’s a journey of connecting our youth with our core values through education.”

Dr. Amarpal Singh, PSEB Chairman, highlighted that the initiative’s success is rooted in students internalising the lessons, making the Guru’s teachings a part of their lives. “The true objective of education is fulfilled as young minds draw inspiration from Guru Sahib’s life, learning truth, courage and righteousness. We’re shaping conscientious citizens, not just students,” he added.

Chandigarh, November 7 – The 150th anniversary of the national song ‘Vande Mataram’ was commemorated with dignity and patriotic fervor across Haryana today. Chief Secretary Mr. Anurag Rastogi graced the event at the Haryana Civil Secretariat in Chandigarh as the chief guest, highlighting the song’s enduring significance for the nation.

In his address, Mr. Rastogi reflected on India’s struggle for independence, stating that immense pain was endured under foreign rule, and that the first fight for freedom in 1857 ignited a spirit that ‘Vande Mataram’ helped nurture into a national movement. He emphasized that music and songs have long been a part of India’s cultural tradition, with ‘Vande Mataram’ remaining a beacon of patriotic inspiration. The Chief Secretary remarked that this immortal song gave voice to national consciousness, united people against oppression, and shaped the freedom struggle.

Mr. Rastogi further stated that ‘Vande Mataram’ is not just a song—it is the soul of India’s national character and an act of devotion to Mother India. He urged officials and citizens to remember the country’s glorious history and invaluable heritage, and to follow the ideals put forth by great leaders and freedom fighters.

The event also featured an exhibition dedicated to Bankim Chandra Chatterjee, the author of ‘Vande Mataram’, showcasing milestones from his life. Chief Secretary encouraged all in attendance to visit the exhibition and draw inspiration. He led the collective singing of the national song  in Hindi, along with school children who performed stirring renditions of patriotic songs.

The program began with the Chief Secretary and senior officers lighting a ceremonial lamp and offering flowers to Bharat Mata. Officers , employees, and CISF officers joined in the singing of ‘Vande Mataram’ and also performed the state song ‘Jai Jai Jai Haryana’ to mark the occasion.

Director General of Information, Public Relations and Languages Department, Mr. K. Makarand Pandurang, welcomed the Chief Secretary and presented him with a commemorative picture of ‘Vande Mataram’.

Additional Chief Secretary of Home Department, Dr. Sumita Mishra, Additional Chief Secretary, Health and Family Welfare Department, Mr. Sudhir Rajpal, Additional Chief Secretary, Cooperation Department, Mr. Vijayendra Kumar, Additional Chief Secretary, Town and Country Planning Department, Mr. Apoorv Kumar Singh, Principal Secretary to the Chief Minister, Arun Gupta, Director General of Police, Mr. O.P. Singh, Principal Secretary, Energy Department, Mr. Shyamal Mishra, Commissioner and Secretary, Housing for All Department, Mr. Mohammad Shayin, Commissioner and Secretary, Information, Public Relations, Language and Culture Department, Dr. Amit Kumar Agrawal, Commissioner and Secretary, Finance Department, Mr. Rajnikanthan, Commissioner and Secretary, Human Resources Department, Mr. P.C. Meena, Principal Secretary, Sports Department, Mr. Navdeep Singh Virk, Principal Secretary, Heritage and Tourism Department, Mrs. Kala Ramachandran, Special Secretary, Personnel, Training and Parliamentary Affairs Department, Dr. Aditya Dahiya, Director, Women and Child Development Department, Mrs. Priyanka Soni, Additional Secretary, Secretariat Establishment, Mr. Samvartak Singh Khangwal, along with Haryana Civil Secretariat employees and CISF officers and jawans were also present.

Chandigarh, November 7, 2025 – Haryana Chief Minister Sh. Nayab Singh Saini said that Vande Mataram is not just a song but the heartbeat, identity, and soul of India. He was addressing the gathering at the state-level celebration of the 150th anniversary of Vande Mataram, organized in Ambala on Friday. He  expressed pride in participating in this historic event and congratulated the people of Haryana on completing 150 years of the song Vande Mataram. He  said that the song symbolizes India’s eternal spirit, nationalism, and unity.

Meanwhile, Prime Minister Sh. Narendra Modi addressed the nation from New Delhi on the occasion of the inaugural ceremony commemorating 150 years of the National Song  Vande Mataram. He also inaugurated a year-long commemoration of Vande Mataram by releasing a commemorative stamp and a coin. The live telecast of the Prime Minister’s address from New Delhi, was also shown during the state-level ceremony. The Chief Minister and other dignitaries listened to his inspiring message that celebrated the unity, sacrifice, and patriotism symbolized by Vande Mataram.

Vande Mataram is the heartbeat of Bharat – CM

Sh. Nayab Singh  Saini said Vande Mataram is not merely a patriotic hymn but a rising force that infused new life into India’s struggle for freedom. It embodies the Sanatan vision that views the motherland as a divine mother. The song connects every Indian with the values of duty, dignity, discipline, and sacrifice. He added that the song became a clarion call of courage and self-respect,  it shook the British Empire and awakened the spirit of revolution among the youth. The British feared this song because, though it was not a weapon, it possessed power millions of times greater than weapons, he said.

The Chief Minister said that the essence of Vande Mataram lies in India’s nature and culture as it carries the murmur of our rivers, the greenery of our fields, and the pride of our land. It echoes in the austerity of Shivratri, in the joy of Baisakhi, in the colours of Holi, and in the lights of Diwali. It is also the sacred mantra of unity, he added.

Tracing 150 Years of a National Awakening

Recounting the song’s history, the Chief Minister said Vande Mataram was composed in 1875 by Sh. Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay, and its famous public recitation was done by Sh. Rabindranath Tagore in 1896 in Kolkata. By 1905, during the movement against the partition of Bengal, the poem had been set to the classical raga Desh Malhar and became a marching anthem of inspiration. During national protests, Vande Mataram emerged as a powerful medium of nationalism, unity, and resistance against British rule. Its impact was so strong that the British government banned singing it, shared Sh. Nayab Singh Saini.

The Chief Minister said that the song united people of all castes, religions, communities, and regions in one spirit, strengthening the idea of “unity in diversity” and inspiring millions to join the freedom struggle.

Ambala – The Land  where the first spark of the 1857 uprising was ignited

The Chief Minister recalled that the spark of the first war of independence in 1857 ignited from Ambala’s sacred soil. This land has not only written but lived the history of valour, he said, adding that the state government has built a Shaheedi Smarak in Ambala Cantonment in honour of those brave heroes.

CM Condemns Opposition to the National Song

The Chief Minister strongly criticized those who object to Vande Mataram. He said they fail to understand India’s culture, soul, and national pride. Recalling history, he shared that in 1923, during the Congress session in Kakinada, Pandit Vishnu Digambar Paluskar was invited to sing Vande Mataram, but Congress President Maulana Mohammad Ali objected on religious grounds. Later, in 1937, the Congress Working Committee formally decided to replace the national song to appease the Muslim League leaders.

Sh. Nayab Singh Saini said, even after independence, on several occasions, Congress and its leaders have displayed disagreement with Vande Mataram. He cited recent examples,  in 2017, AIMIM leader Akbaruddin Owaisi demanded the withdrawal of a circular mandating the singing of Vande Mataram in schools. In Telangana, the Congress government recently declared that singing the song would not be compulsory, and in 2019, the Congress government in Madhya Pradesh banned Vande Mataram in the state secretariat, he said.  These people must understand that Vande Mataram is not a controversy, it is the sacred offering of Mother India. It is the song of those who walk the path of patriotism, not appeasement. Vande Mataram is our identity, asserted the Chief Minister.

A Song that Awakened a Nation

The Chief Minister said Vande Mataram awakened India’s self-respect and transformed the freedom struggle into a mass movement. Bhagat Singh, Sukhdev, Rajguru, Chandrashekhar Azad, and thousands of martyrs went to the gallows singing this song. Lakhs of freedom fighters endured torture in prisons chanting it, and the caravan of freedom moved forward, he said.

Sh. Nayab Singh Saini further added that during the Quit India Movement of 1942 led by Mahatma Gandhi, Vande Mataram was the mantra of patriotism and freedom. Slogans like Vande Mataram, Inquilab Zindabad, and Jai Hind echoed across the nation, inspiring Indians to resist British oppression until independence was achieved on August 15, 1947.

Vande Mataram – Declared National Song in 1950

The Chief Minister recalled that after independence, India’s first President Dr. Rajendra Prasad accorded Vande Mataram the status of the National Song in 1950. He said that a nation’s progress depends on the love of its people for their motherland. He emphasized that the essence of Vande Mataram remains as relevant today as during the freedom movement. To strengthen the spirit of unity and integrity, we must keep the flame of Vande Mataram forever burning, he said.

Five Pledges for Every Citizen

On this historic occasion, the Chief Minister urged every citizen of Haryana to take five pledges to give true meaning to the 150-year journey of Vande Mataram. He said the first pledge should be “Nation First”, placing the country above all in every action. The second pledge is “No Appeasement”, emphasizing a firm commitment to inclusive and balanced development. The third pledge calls for “Justice and Opportunity for All”, ensuring respect, equality, and dignity for the last person in society. The fourth pledge focuses on “Swadeshi and Innovation”, encouraging a rapid journey toward self-reliance and indigenous creativity. The fifth and final pledge is “Zero Tolerance for Anti-National Forces”, reaffirming an unwavering stand against any element that threatens national unity and integrity. He said that when these five pledges become part of every citizen’s life, the 150-year journey of Vande Mataram will achieve its complete and true purpose.

Notably, the Chief Minister also administered a ‘swadeshi’ pledge to the attendees. He also visited an exhibition set up by the Information, Public Relations, Language and Culture Department  related to the song Vande Mataram  during the programme.

Pledge to Build a Developed Nation

Sh. Nayab Singh Saini called upon everyone to take a pledge to make India a developed nation under the dynamic leadership of Prime Minister, Sh. Narendra Modi. Extending greetings once again on the 150th anniversary of Vande Mataram, the Chief Minister paid homage to all known and unknown heroes who sacrificed their lives for India’s freedom and its protection. Vande Mataram is the soul of our nation,  our pride, our identity, he said.

Pt. Subhash Ghosh Mesmerizes Audience with Soulful Rendition of Vande Mataram

During the function, renowned Indian classical musician Pt. Subhash Ghosh mesmerized the audience with his soulful rendition of the iconic song Vande Mataram. His melodious performance filled the venue with patriotic fervor and emotional resonance. Adding to the spirit of the occasion, the Haryana Police  also sang a series of patriotic songs, energizing the atmosphere with their powerful music. School students further enhanced the celebration with their vibrant patriotic performances, expressing love and pride for the nation through inspiring songs and dances.

On this occasion, BJP State Vice President Smt. Banto Kataria, Deputy Commissioner Ambala, Sh. Ajay Singh Tomer, Additional Director (Administration), Information, Public Relations, Language and Culture Department, Smt. Varsha Khangwal and other dignitaries  were also present.

Chandigarh November 7- The Special High-Powered Purchase Committee (SHPPC) in a meeting held on Thursday late evening under the Chairpersonship of Health Minister, Ms. Arti Rao, approved several key Rate Contracts aimed at strengthening healthcare services and infrastructure across the State of Haryana.

Health Minister, Ms. Arti Rao said that the Committee finalized Rate Contracts for 87 Defibrillators (Bi-phasic) for all Civil Hospitals, amounting to Rs.4.64 crore, 40 Mobile X-Ray Machines (150 mA), amounting to Rs.1.01 crore, 11 Video Bronchoscopes worth Rs.4 crore, and Advanced GI Video Endoscopy Systems, amounting to Rs.7.19 crore.

She said that it also approved the selection of a service provider for the operation and management of 30 Urban Ayushman Arogya Mandirs (UAAMs) in Gurugram District at a cost of Rs.26.20 crore, 9 Automatic Slide Stainers for Histopathology Departments worth Rs.1.60 crore, 4 Mobile Dental Vans amounting to Rs. 2.20 crore, 70 ABG Benchtop Machines for Laboratory Departments amounting to Rs. 1.47 crore, 15 High-End Operating Microscopes (Eye) for Ophthalmology Departments worth Rs.3.94 crore, and 40 Truenat Machines for testing of TB patients amounting to Rs. 6 crore, she added.

The Health Minister further said that in addition to equipment procurement, the SHPPC also approved 44 essential and life-saving drugs valued at approximately Rs. 60 crore for finalization under the two-year Rate Contract. Besides this, the approved list covers antibiotics, antihypertensives, insulin preparations, emergency medicines, and other essential formulations that form the backbone of patient care in government health facilities.

She said that these approvals will ensure the timely availability of quality-assured medicines at all levels of the public health system — from primary health centres to district and tertiary hospitals. By securing Rate Contracts for both modern equipment and critical drugs, the Haryana Government has reaffirmed its commitment to providing uninterrupted, affordable, and high-quality healthcare services to every citizen.

The approved items will be supplied shortly to government hospitals across the state, further strengthening patient care delivery and supporting key national and state health programmes.

Chandigarh, Nov 7 – Union Minister for Housing, Urban Affairs and Energy, Mr. Manohar Lal said that the primary objective of the 18th Urban Mobility India Conference and Exhibition is to enhance transportation systems and services to ensure accessibility in urban areas. The conference, held under the theme “Easy Mode of Travelling,” aims to generate policy-based recommendations that will bring positive changes to urban development and improve public services.

The Union Minister was addressing the gathering after inaugurating the three-day conference and exhibition in Gurugram on Friday. He also inaugurated and reviewed the developmental exhibition showcasing advancements in urban development and mobility.

New Announcements for Urban Development Initiatives

Mr. Manohar Lal, through his ministry, made three major announcements aimed at enhancing public convenience and developing robust urban infrastructure. He stated that the implementation of these initiatives would mark the beginning of a new phase of development. He announced the establishment of Delhi Metro International Limited (DMIL), which will work towards expanding the metro network beyond India to other countries. A Mass Rapid Transit System (MRTS) will also be developed in partnership with the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) to strengthen metro interconnectivity and ensure safe, reliable transportation facilities and services for the public, in line with stringent safety and cybersecurity standards. To improve the quality of metro services and promote innovation, the Ministry of Urban Development will set up the Delhi Metro Rail Academy. This establishment will accelerate capacity building, and with the establishment of a Center of Excellence, this center will provide a new direction to metro services through innovative approaches. He said that while the national capital already has several large convention centers, Gurugram, as one of the country’s major cities, also needs a similar facility. In this context, he will discuss with Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini and work towards building a convention center equipped with state-of-the-art facilities.

India’s Global Progress

Mr. Manohar Lal highlighted that under the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, India is advancing rapidly toward self-reliance. He said that integrating transport networks will help position India as a developed nation by 2047, in line with the Make in India initiative. He further said that urban transformation is being carried out in alignment with evolving public needs, with a strong focus on sustainable and efficient urban transportation. India currently ranks third globally in metro service coverage, and within the next three years, it is expected to surpass the United States to become one of the leading nations in metro infrastructure. The Minister added that the Central Government is committed to adopting new technologies for public services, and through platforms like the Urban Mobility India Conference, the government will continue collaborating with experts to implement innovative, future-ready solutions for urban mobility.

The Country’s Urban Future is Being Reshaped with a New Vision – Tokhan Sahu

Union Minister of State for Housing and Urban Affairs, Mr. Tokhan Sahu, stated that the conference marks a significant step toward achieving India’s developmental goals for 2047. Addressing the gathering, he said that under the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, the country’s urban future is being shaped with new thinking, new energy, and renewed commitment. He added that this conference embodies both India’s rich cultural heritage and its strong resolve for progress. He said that India is currently undergoing a transformative era of infrastructure development, where urban transport has evolved beyond being merely a means of mobility—it has become a driving force for economic growth, environmental sustainability, and social equity.

He emphasized that this year’s conference focuses on the vital interconnection between urban development and transportation, recognizing that a dynamic and inclusive transport system ensures citizens’ easy access to education, healthcare, employment, and essential services. Under the leadership of the Prime Minister, Mr. Sahu highlighted, initiatives such as the Swachh Bharat Mission, Mission AMRUT, Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (Urban), metro rail expansion, electric bus services, public bicycle systems, and transit-oriented development have together given a new direction to urban mobility in India. Our goal, he said, is to build a transportation system that is inclusive, environmentally sustainable, and responsive to the needs of every section of society.

Haryana Demonstrates Outstanding Progress in Urban Mobility

Speaking on this occasion, Haryana ACS Dr. Raja Shekhar Vundru stated that the state is setting an exemplary benchmark in the field of urban mobility, serving as a model for other states to follow. Highlighting the importance of the conference, Dr. Vundru said that it provides a powerful platform for collaboration among the government, industry, academia, and citizens. It is a space where we can come together to share new ideas, innovations, and creative solutions.. He added that such efforts go beyond mere infrastructure development—they drive results-oriented growth, enhanced connectivity, and the transformation we envision, where cities become affordable, accessible, and livable. The cities we shape today will define the India of tomorrow.

Union Minister Leads Mass Singing of Vande Mataram on Its 150th Anniversary

To mark the 150th anniversary of Vande Mataram, Union Minister Shri Manohar Lal led the gathering in a collective rendition of the song. He stated that Vande Mataram is not merely a song, but the soul of India’s freedom movement. Composed by Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay, the song became a mantra that ignited enthusiasm, self-confidence, and self-respect in the hearts of Indians during the struggle for independence. Shri Manohar Lal added that the song united the nation and continues to inspire a spirit of dedication, sacrifice, and service to the motherland even today.

During the event, the Union Minister also released three significant publications- Guidelines for Issuing Municipal Green Bonds in India, Edition 5 of The Green Urban Mobility Partnership Newsletter and Guidance Document on Building Resilient E-Bus Ecosystems.

The event was graced by Shri Srinivas Katikithala, Secretary, Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs; Dr. Chandra Shekhar Khare, Managing Director, Gurugram Metro Rail Limited; along with several senior officials, mayors, and representatives from urban local bodies across the country.

Chandigarh, November 7 – Haryana Energy, Transport, and Labour Minister, Sh. Anil Vij, distributed subsidy cheques amounting to Rs. 25.23 lakh to 23 beneficiaries of the ‘Pradhan Mantri Suryaghar Muft Bijli Yojana’ at his residence in Ambala Cantonment. On this occasion, he urged people to take full advantage of the scheme so that, in line with the vision of Prime Minister, Sh.Narendra Modi, India can move toward becoming a nation powered by green energy.

He said that the Pradhan Mantri Suryaghar Muft Bijli Yojana is an excellent initiative for the people, under which the Central Government provides Rs.60,000 and the State Government contributes Rs.50,000, making a total subsidy of Rs.1.10 lakh for each beneficiary. Under the scheme, households with an income below Rs.1.80 lakh are eligible for a subsidy of Rs.1.10 lakh for installing solar panels up to 2 kilowatts.

Energy Minister, Sh. Anil Vij further said that it is important for beneficiaries to spread awareness and demonstrate to others that once solar panels are installed, electricity becomes almost free. The power generated during the day from solar panels can easily meet a household’s daily electricity needs and electricity bills go off altogether. The scheme is not limited to 2 kW systems; it also covers higher capacities. For example, those installing panels up to 3 kW receive a subsidy of Rs. 78,000. He urged more and more people to avail themselves of this scheme. He also appealed to party workers to inform as many people as possible about solar panel installation and encourage them to adopt it.

Under the Pradhan Mantri Suryaghar Muft Bijli Yojana, a total of 23 beneficiaries from Ambala Cantonment received subsidy cheques today.

 Executive Engineer (XEN), Electricity Board Sh. Vikas, and others were also present.

Chandigarh, November 7 – Haryana Chief Minister Sh Nayab Singh Saini said that the sacred Shri Devi Talab in Jalandhar is not merely a temple, it is the heart of our faith, culture, and glorious traditions. The Kar Seva of the sacred lake is not just about removing soil or deepening the water body, it is a living testament to our rich Sikh and Sanatan traditions of service, dedication, and community.

Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini made these remarks while addressing volunteers at the inauguration ceremony of the Kar Seva at Shri Devi Talab Temple in Jalandhar, Punjab.

Restoring the Lake to Its Pristine Purity

He said that restoring the lake to its original purity is our foremost goal. The restoration and purification of this sacred lake is a true service to God, reminding us of our responsibilities towards humanity. Punjab and Haryana share not only a common culture and glorious history but also spiritual and blood ties, he said.

Service Is the Greatest Religion

Nayab Singh Saini highlighted that Kar Seva teaches us that there is no greater religion than service. He urged the youth to participate wholeheartedly in this Kar Seva, stating that such voluntary work reconnects them to their roots and instills a sense of collective responsibility. The sacred task we undertake today is not merely cleaning a lake; it is an act of reverence for Mother Earth and our invaluable water resources, he added.

Purity of Water as the Supreme Being

The Chief Minister said that water is life, and the purity of water represents the supreme being of life. Our ancestors revered nature—rivers, mountains, trees, and water—as divine. Today, as the world faces climate change and environmental challenges, this Kar Seva reminds us that solutions lie not in distant laboratories, but in our own traditions and collective service.

Youth: Drivers of Voluntary Service, Awareness, and Innovation

He further stated that youth are the future of the nation, possessing unmatched energy, enthusiasm, and technical expertise. He encouraged them to contribute through voluntary labour, awareness campaigns, and innovative ideas. The spiritual peace and pride gained through such engagement cannot be achieved otherwise. Embrace the role of digital volunteers to spread awareness and bring modern thinking to this ancient pilgrimage site, he said.

Kar Seva as a Symbol of Dedication and Unity

He told the people of Jalandhar that the lake is an integral part of the city’s identity. Once the Kar Seva is completed, the real responsibility begins. Ensure the lake’s cleanliness is maintained daily. Prevent the disposal of puja materials or other waste into the lake. With the cooperation of the temple committee and local community, establish strict rules to uphold its sanctity and ensure compliance. Let this Kar Seva not remain just a project, but become an example of dedication and unity. This lake should be so grand and sacred that it inspires devotees from across the globe, he added.

Chandigarh, November 7- Haryana is on track to become a zero stubble-burning state within the next two years, having achieved remarkable progress in curbing crop residue burning. The state has reported a 77 percent reduction in fire incidents this season, with only 171 cases recorded as of November 6, 2025, compared to 888 during the same period last year. This information was shared by Haryana Chief Secretary Anurag Rastogi after attending a high-level review meeting chaired by Sh. Rajesh Verma, Chairperson of the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM).

CAQM Chairperson Rajesh Verma appreciated the collective efforts of Haryana Government officials and farmers in reducing incidents of stubble burning. He especially commended the districts of Karnal and Kurukshetra for their significant progress in curbing paddy residue burning. Emphasizing that the next ten days are extremely crucial, he directed the district administrations to maintain strict vigilance to ensure that no further cases of stubble burning occur in the state.

Chief Secretary Anurag Rastogi informed that Haryana’s three-pronged strategy—covering in-situ management, ex-situ utilization, and fodder use—is delivering strong results across the state’s 39.31 lakh acres of paddy area. Of this, 44.40 lakh tonnes of residue are being managed through in-situ methods, 19.10 lakh tonnes through ex-situ utilization, and 22 lakh tonnes are being used as fodder. A total of 19,670 acres have been diversified from paddy cultivation, while over 1.74 lakh farmers have adopted Direct Seeding of Rice (DSR), significantly reducing both water use and stubble generation.

The government has enhanced financial incentives to promote sustainable farming practices, offering ₹1,200 per acre for in-situ and ex-situ management ₹8,000 per acre for crop diversification, and ₹4,500 per acre for DSR. A total of ₹471 crore has been allocated for these initiatives. Free bio-decomposer powder is being distributed, with CCS HAU, Hisar, implementing the technology on 2 lakh acres. Under the Crop Residue Management (CRM) scheme for 2025–26, 7,781 machines worth ₹94 crore have been sanctioned, with total funding of ₹250.75 crore shared between the Central and State Governments.

Highlighting Haryana’s progress in industrial use of paddy straw, Mr. Rastogi said that the state now has 31 pelletization and briquetting plants with a combined capacity of 8.17 lakh tonnes per annum, 11 biomass power plants generating 111.9 MW, one 2G ethanol plant, two CBG plants, and five thermal power plants utilizing 16.64 lakh tonnes of paddy straw. Brick kilns in non-NCR districts have also been directed to progressively use paddy straw-based pellets—20 percent by 2025, increasing to 50 percent by 2028.

He added that Haryana has deployed 10,028 nodal officers and uses HARSAC’s satellite monitoring system for real-time detection of fire incidents. FIRs and environmental compensation are being imposed in all verified cases. As of November 6, compensation amounting to ₹4.60 lakh has been levied in 87 cases, with ₹3.35 lakh already recovered. Red entries have been made in 87 farm records.To curb vehicular emissions, the state has issued 3,25,989 PUC challans between January and October 2025 and penalized 285 visibly polluting vehicles in ncr districts. A total of 188 congestion points were identified, of which 101 have been decongested to reduce idle emissions. On the waste management front, 169 waste-burning incidents identified this year have been completely resolved through enforcement and awareness measures. Gurugram and Faridabad now have 86 CCTV cameras installed at dumpsites to ensure rapid response to potential fire incidents.

Chandigarh, November 5: Haryana Chief Minister, Sh Nayab Singh Saini, today paid obeisance at historic Gurdwara Nada Sahib  in Panchkula on the auspicious occasion of Guru Nanak Dev Ji’s Prakash Parv. The Chief Minister prayed for happiness, peace, and prosperity for the people of the state.

On this occasion, the Chief Minister performed parikrama  of the Nishan Sahib located within the Gurdwara premises and offered prayers at the Guru’s feet.

Interacting with the media persons, the Chief Minister Sh Nayab Singh Saini extended his heartfelt greetings to the people of the state on the auspicious occasion of Guru Nanak Dev Ji’s Prakash Parv and prays for the good health and progress of every individual.

The Chief Minister said that Guru Nanak Dev Ji imparted invaluable teachings for the welfare of society and the upliftment of humanity, which remain deeply relevant even today. He added that this sacred occasion gives us an opportunity to reaffirm our commitment to imbibe and follow the teachings of Guru Nanak Dev Ji in our lives.

He said that Guru Nanak Dev Ji imparted three fundamental principles to humanity -Naam Japo, Kirat Karo  and Vand Chhako. By embracing these teachings, we can further nurture the spirit of service, generosity, and social harmony in our society.

On this occasion, Deputy Commissioner of Police Smt Srishti Gupta, BJP District President Sh Ajay Mittal, OSD  Dr. Prabhleen Singh, Shyam Lal Bansal and Head Granthi of Gurdwara Nada Sahib, Giani Jagjit Singh, along with other dignitaries, were present.