Punjab Vidhan Sabha Speaker S. Kultar Singh Sandhwan expressed grief over the demise of  veteran Congress party leader and former Governor of Punjab Shivraj Patil. He added that Shivraj Patil served the nation with devotion and dedication and his contribution towards public service will always be remembered.

 Speaker Sandhwan  deeply saddened to hear the news of his passing away and he pray to the God to grant peace to the departed soul. Almighty may give strength to the bereaved family to bear this irreparable loss in this hour of distress.

Chandigarh, 12 December 2025:

The State Election Commission, Punjab is fully committed for conducting the general elections of Zila Parishad and Panchayat Samiti in the state on 14.12.2025 in a fair and transparent manner. All preparations have been completed by the Commission in this regard.

The Commission informed  the contesting candidates and the general public that the Commission has appointed IAS/Senior PCS officers as “Election Observers” in all the districts, who will be present in their respective districts from today till the completion of the election process (i.e. till the counting of votes and results are declared) and will keep the State Election Commission informed about these elections as per the requirement. The details of these appointed election observers are available on the website of the State Election Commission (https://sec.punjab.gov.in).

 Apart from this, the Commission has appointed 6 senior IPS officers as “Police Observers” to monitor the law and order situation during the conduct of these elections in various districts of the state (Patiala, Sangrur, Barnala, Tarn Taran, Rupnagar, Jalandhar, Kapurthala and Moga), whose details are available in the respective Deputy Commissioner offices. If the candidate feels the need, he can contact them.

Punjab State Scheduled Castes Commission Chairman S. Jasvir Singh Garhi today met Chief Minister S. Bhagwant Singh Mann at his official residence.

During the meeting, Garhi apprised the Chief Minister about the ongoing initiatives of the Commission for the welfare of the Scheduled Castes across the state. He also outlined key challenges being faced by the Commission.

Sharing further details of the interaction, S. Garhi said the Chief Minister expressed satisfaction over the Commission’s functioning and asked for a detailed written report on the issues highlighted, paving the way for their early resolution. The report would be submitted to the Chief Minister shortly, he added.

S. Garhi further said he extended his greetings to the Chief Minister for his successful visit to Japan and South Korea.

Chandigarh, December 12:

Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann on Friday batted for strategic tie up between the state and United Kingdom (UK) for further developing the state as a hub of investment and manufacturing.

During a meeting with a high-level delegation from the UK High Commission in Chandigarh, led by the Deputy High Commissioner Alba Smeriglio. the Chief Minister underscored need for further cementing business partnerships, with both sides expressing strong commitment to deepen ties. Bhagwant Singh Mann highlighted Mohali as one of the best-organized cities globally and emphasized Punjab’s robust potential to emerge as a manufacturing powerhouse. Noting the eagerness of Punjab’s students to pursue opportunities in the UK through legal and safe pathways, he assured full cooperation from the state government in this regard.

The Chief Minister specifically addressed transnational challenges like gangsters, stating that such issues transcend borders and Punjab stands ready to collaborate with the UK on legal matters and any required assistance. He extended a red-carpet welcome to UK companies, positioning Punjab as a prioritized destination for investors. Bhagwant Singh Mann showcased the Punjabi diaspora’s global influence and identified core sectors for investment, including agro machinery, food processing, IT and more.

The Chief Minister apprised the delegation that Punjab’s robust investment ecosystem, offers reasonable power tariffs, land facilities and a welcoming environment for investors.He said that state ranks number one in Ease of Doing Business, with an efficient Single Window system operating transparently. Notably, Bhagwant Singh Mann said that due to strenuous efforts of the state government, Punjab has became the first state to pass the Right to Business Act.

The Chief Minister invited the delegation to partner in the upcoming progressive Punjab Investors Summit (PPIS), in Mohali during the month of March. He positioned Punjab as the “Land of Opportunities,” with world-acclaimed companies eager to establish operations here which was reflective of the state’s stable law-and-order situation. Bhagwant Singh Mann also said that Mohali will be the  “next Silicon Valley,” of the world as it has immense potential in this regard.

The Chief Minister said that Mohali has an International airport and a vast talent pool within a 100 km radius which makes it a perfect investment destination.  He urged the delegation to explore various areas of the state, for investing in the varied sectors to give further impetus to development of the state. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that it is imperative for giving boost to economic activity in the state on one hand and providing jobs to the youth on the other.

Meanwhile, the UK Deputy High Commissioner acknowledged the Punjabi diaspora’s potential and their substantial funds available for investment in their native land.

In response to queries on key sectors, the CM reiterated Punjab’s proactive investment climate and requested visits to showcase opportunities firsthand. Both Punjab and UK agreed  to strengthen ties for mutual growth, progress and prosperity besides giving impetus to trade and commerce.

CHANDIGARH, December 12:

          Continuing the war against drugs “Yudh Nashian Virudh” waged by Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann to eradicate drug menace from state consecutively for the 286th day, Punjab Police conducted raids at 305 locations on Friday leading to the arrest of 68 drug smugglers after registration of 53 first information reports (FIRs) across the state. With this, the number of total drug smugglers arrested has reached to 40,187 in 286 days.

          The raids have resulted in recovery of 863 grams heroin, 352 intoxicant pills and Rs 810 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 65 gazetted officers have conducted 305 raids across the state. Police teams have also checked as many as 327 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 40 persons to undergo de-addiction and rehabilitation treatment today.

The Haryana Human Rights Commission, Chandigarh has taken major action on a complaint received regarding mining activities, air pollution, and the continued operation of units ordered to be closed in Khanak village (Bhiwani). The Commission has stated clearly that the decline in air quality in Khanak and its adjoining areas is a serious concern, requiring strict monitoring by all departments and immediate action.

In compliance with the order dated 19.08.2025, detailed reports dated 17.11.2025 were submitted by the Regional Officer, Haryana State Pollution Control Board (HSPCB) and the Mining Officer, Bhiwani.

According to the report, based on joint inspections, legal approvals and continuous monitoring, mining operations in Khanak are being carried out within legal provisions and prescribed environmental safety measures, and no illegal mining has been found.

Air quality data from 5 to 12 November 2025 shows that while dust pollution remains in the Khanak area, Bhiwani city recorded a higher AQI on most days, even entering the ‘very poor’ category. This demonstrates that pollution is widespread at the district level and not limited only to the mining zone.

Taking into consideration the facts mentioned in the reports and concerns regarding falling air quality and possible irregularities in Khanak and surrounding areas, the Full Commission comprising Chairperson Justice LalitBatra and Members KuldIp Jain and Deep Bhatia has directed the Regional Officer, HSPCB Bhiwani and the Mining Officer, Bhiwani to conduct regular random inspections and surprise checks.

These inspections will cover mining units, stone crushers, hot mix plants and tyre pyrolysis units in Khanak village, as well as the surrounding villages and mining-affected areas.

Tyre pyrolysis units involve heating waste or old tyres at temperatures of 350–600°C in the absence of oxygen, causing rubber and other materials to break down into various useful products.

The Commission has ordered that the Sarpanch of Khanak village and local villagers must also be included in these inspections.

As per the report presented before the Full Commission chaired by Justice LalitBatra, stringent enforcement measures under CAQM’s GRAP Stage-III have been implemented, including temporary closure of units and disconnection of their 3-phase electricity supply.

Additionally, two major environmental improvements projects—plantation of 2080 saplings along the Tosham–Hisar Road and deployment of three truck-mounted anti-smog guns—have been approved by the District Level Administrative Committee and forwarded to higher authorities for sanction. These projects are to be implemented through the EC Fund.

Most stone crushers and all tyre pyrolysis units are either closed or complying with regulations, and continuous control measures are being implemented.

Based on the facts presented, the Full Commission chaired by Justice LalitBatra has stated in its order that the objective of these inspections shall be to examine compliance with environmental safety standards, functioning of air pollution control devices, adherence to blasting protocols and the exact status of units ordered to be closed.

A report on these aspects must be submitted on the next date of hearing.

Despite closure orders, complaints have been received that tyre pyrolysis plants, stone crushers and hot mix plants continue to operate. Therefore, the Deputy Commissioner Bhiwani, Superintendent of Police Bhiwani, Regional Officer HSPCB Bhiwani, Sub-Divisional Officer (Civil) Tosham, and DSP Tosham are directed to ensure strict enforcement of closure orders.

Sufficient police force must be deployed wherever required. Joint enforcement teams shall be constituted to carry out surprise checks of closed/non-operational units and seize any vehicle, machinery or material found violating the closure orders.

Assistant Registrar of the Commission, Dr.PuneetArora, informed that considering the available facts and serious allegations, the Commission has directed the Chairman, Haryana State Pollution Control Board, Panchkula; Director General, Mines and Geology Department, Haryana, Panchkula; Deputy Commissioner Bhiwani; SDM Tosham; Regional Officer HSPCB Bhiwani; Mining Officer Bhiwani; and all officers of the concerned departments to submit a detailed compliance report before the next date of hearing, i.e., 17.02.2026.

Chandigarh, December 11 — Haryana Chief Minister Sh. Nayab Singh Saini held a meeting with the Members of Parliament from Haryana at Haryana Bhawan in New Delhi on Thursday. Union Minister of Power, Housing & Urban Affairs Sh. Manohar Lal was also present during the meeting.

 During the meeting, Chief Minister Sh. Nayab Singh Saini held detailed discussions on the ongoing development works in the Lok Sabha constituencies of the MPs. He said that the Haryana Government is undertaking development works in every sector. Continuous development activities are also underway in the Lok Sabha constituencies of the MPs. He also discussed with all MPs about the demands related to their respective regions and deliberated on the development projects. He said that the purpose of the meeting is to further accelerate development works so that the general public can reap maximum benefits from government schemes. On this occasion, the MPs also placed their demands before Union Minister Sh. Manohar Lal.

 Lok Sabha MPs Dharambir Singh and Naveen Jindal, and Rajya Sabha MPs Ramchander Jangra, Subhash Barala, Rekha Sharma, and Kartikeya Sharma were present in the meeting.

Chandigarh, December 11 – Haryana Chief Minister Sh Nayab Singh Saini on Thursday accused the opposition of spreading misinformation and failing to address real issues. He made these remarks while interacting with the media persons during his visit to Delhi. 

The Chief Minister criticized the Congress party, stating that it has no constructive agenda. They don’t have a single scheme that isn’t mired in corruption, and their programs never take shape on the ground. Instead of spreading baseless allegations like vote rigging, they should present a clear vision for the country and focus on development. People do not take their claims seriously. 

Highlighting the role of Prime Minister Sh Narendra Modi, Sh Nayab Singh Saini said that under the Prime Minister’s leadership, the poor have progressed and become stronger. If the common people have hope today, it is because of Prime Minister Sh Narendra Modi. The Congress never did anything for the common man. Since independence, Sh Narendra Modi is the leader who has truly cared for the common man, he added. 

CM Expresses Gratitude to the Prime Minister 

The Chief Minister also expressed his gratitude to the Prime Minister for attending two major events in Haryana. “I came to thank the Prime Minister. We organized the 350th martyrdom anniversary of Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji and the International Gita Mahotsav. The Prime Minister’s presence at both events has elevated Haryana’s prestige, and I have personally conveyed my thanks to him, Chief Minister said.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah to visit Haryana 

Chief Minister Sh Nayab Singh Saini said that Union and Cooperation Home Minister Sh Amit Shah will visit Haryana on December 24. He will be the chief guest at the passing out parade of 5,000 newly recruited Haryana Police personnel,” he said.

Chandigarh, December 11 – In a major step toward strengthening digital governance and accelerating the adoption of emerging technologies in public service delivery, the Centre for Development of Advanced Computing (C-DAC), Mumbai—an esteemed R&D institution under the Ministry of Electronics & Information Technology (MeitY), Government of India—conducted a one-day Awareness Workshop on “C-DAC’s Digital Governance and Emerging Technology Solutions & Services.” The workshop was organized in collaboration with the Citizen Resources Information Department (CRID), Haryana, in Chandigarh today.

A government spokesperson informed that the event witnessed an impressive participation of around 150 officials, including senior administrators, technical experts, and representatives from various state departments. The workshop aimed to equip government stakeholders with insights into C-DAC’s advanced digital governance tools, cybersecurity frameworks, innovative ICT platforms, and emerging technology solutions designed to streamline and modernize public service delivery.

The event held special significance as Smt. G. Anupama, Additional Chief Secretary and Dr. Rahul Narwal, Special Secretary and Director, IT, Citizen Resources Information Department (CRID), Haryana, were invited as Chief Guest, and the Guest of Honour, respectively.

Throughout the day, domain experts from C-DAC Mumbai presented a series of technical sessions showcasing national-level platforms and pioneering initiatives. Key demonstrations included SAMVAD-AI – Generative AI-based government scheme delivery; UpAsthti AI – AI-driven group attendance and workforce management; LSAIT – Low Script Automation & Testing powered by AI; Anon-Shield – Privacy-preserving digital security solution; e-Pramaan (Meri Pehchaan) – Unified authentication platform; eSammati – Digital consent management system; Blockchain-based e-Voting system, etc.

Experts also discussed implementation strategies, best practices, and global advancements in Artificial Intelligence and emerging technologies that can be adopted at the state level to enhance transparency, efficiency, and administrative agility. This landmark workshop reflected Haryana’s unwavering commitment to a whole-of-government digital transformation. The state continues to invest in capacity building, innovation promotion, and collaboration with startups, academia, and leading national R&D institutions to prepare for the next wave of technological advancement.

Chandigarh, December 11 – Haryana Chief Minister Sh Nayab Singh Saini, while launching the Mukhyamantri Antyodaya Parivar Utthan Yojana-2.0, inaugurated the state-level Antyodaya Utthan Mela in Sonipat on Thursday.

Speaking on the occasion, the Chief Minister said that guided by Prime Minister Sh Narendra Modi and inspired by the philosophy of Antyodaya, as envisioned by Pandit Deendayal Upadhyaya, the government is committed to improving the living standards of the poorest families. The Antyodaya Mela is not just a platform to share information about schemes, but a confluence of development, participation, and enthusiasm. The hope on the faces of every family here is the true measure of our efforts, he said.

Sh Nayab Singh Saini explained that the scheme has been started to increase the income of poor families and provide them with equal opportunities, skill development, employment, dignity, and better living standards. In the first phase, Antyodaya Melas were organized at 166 locations, and in the second phase, these fairs will be held across the state in a phased manner.

He said that the strength of any society lies in the strength of its families. Educated and empowered families automatically lead the state towards prosperity. Our government ensures that the benefits of all schemes reach every eligible person without discrimination or delay, the Chief Minister said.

He added that the scheme focuses on developing the capabilities of families through loans, training, and skill development, helping them become self-reliant. This initiative provides new opportunities in employment, self-employment, education, and health. Services from departments such as pensions, BPL, ration cards, self-employment loans, women’s empowerment, agriculture, and animal husbandry are being offered on the spot. Eligible beneficiaries are provided immediate solutions to their problems.

He further said that the government aims to increase the annual income of the poorest families to at least Rs 1,80,000 under this scheme. Families are being linked to loan schemes, skill development programs, daily wage employment opportunities, and other facilities. The scheme integrates 49 programs from 19 departments, and a dedicated portal has been created to provide information, eligibility criteria, benefits, and online application facilities.

Government Committed to Women’s Empowerment – Chief Minister

Sh Nayab Singh Saini said that the state government is firmly committed to the empowerment of women. Referring to the Deendayal Lado Lakshmi Yojana, he said the scheme was launched to provide economic and social security to women. So far, Rs. 258 crore has been disbursed to over 7 lakh women and girls in two installments, he added.

The Chief Minister highlighted the state’s efforts in social welfare, stating that ration cards have been created in an automated manner for more than 41 lakh families. Under the Chirayu Yojana, free medical facilities are being provided to BPL families. Through the Ayushman Bharat-Chirayu Yojana, free treatment worth Rs. 4,126 crore has been provided to 25.39 lakh patients. In the first phase of the Nirogi Haryana Yojana, health check-ups have been conducted for 96.72 lakh beneficiaries from Antyodaya families, along with 5.60 crore free lab tests.

He also highlighted the Dayalu Yojana, under which financial assistance of Rs. 1,456 crore has been provided to 38,671 families. Poor women are being provided LPG cylinders at just Rs. 500 per month, benefiting approximately 14.70 lakh families across the state, he said.

He further mentioned the Haryana Antyodaya Parivar Parivahan Yojana (HAPPY), under which citizens are entitled to free travel of up to 1,000 kilometers per year.

Government Providing Housing Facilities for Poor Families – Chief Minister

Haryana Chief Minister stated that the state government is committed to providing housing facilities for poor families. Under the Ambedkar Housing Renovation Scheme, Rs. 416 crore has been provided to 76,985 beneficiaries from Scheduled Castes living below the poverty line for house repairs. Under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY), 1.47 lakh houses have been provided to ensure that the poor have a secure roof over their heads.

Under the Mukhyamantri Awas Yojana (Urban), plots have been allotted to 15,765 poor families across 14 cities, while under the Mukhyamantri Awas Yojana (Rural), 12,031 plots have been allocated in 58 Gram Panchayats.

Chief Minister Allocates Flats and Hands Over Keys to 509 EWS Beneficiaries

On this occasion, Sh Nayab Singh Saini allocated flats to 509 beneficiaries from the Economically Weaker Sections (EWS) under the EWS Housing Scheme and handed over keys to 20 people on the spot. The beneficiaries included 16 nomadic families, 79 widowed women, 186 Scheduled Caste families, 156 families with an income of less than Rs. 1 lakh, and 72 families with an income of less than Rs. 1.40 lakh. A waiting list of 127 applicants was also released.

Chief Minister Launches Sonipat District’s Official Logo

The Chief Minsier also launched the official logo of Sonipat district, designed by 20 government school students under the guidance of Rupendra Punia, APC of the Education Department. The logo reflects Sonipat’s rich heritage and features elements representing its history from the Mahabharata era, sports and athletes, mushroom, wheat and rice production, the automobile sector, educational institutions and sports university, Asia’s largest Gannaur vegetable market, NH-44, the famous dhabas of Murthal, and the sacred Yamuna River flowing through the district.

Antyodaya Mela Benefiting Every Needy Person – Krishan Bedi

Addressing the people, Social Justice and Empowerment Minister Sh Krishan Bedi said that the Antyodaya Mela is proving helpful for every needy person, reflecting the true spirit of Antyodaya (uplifting the poorest of the poor). He said that beneficiaries of the fair come from sections of society that were excluded from government schemes during previous regimes. Today, with the efforts of Prime Minister Sh Narendra Modi and Chief Minister Sh Nayab Singh Saini, these fairs are being organized across the state, he added.

Government Ensuring Benefits Reach the Common Man – Dr. Arvind Sharma

Cooperation Minister Dr. Arvind Sharma highlighted that the Central and State governments are making every effort to bring public welfare schemes to the common man. Schemes have been formulated for every section of society, and the government ensures their benefits reach the people. He emphasized that the government operates on the principles of transparency, accountability, and good governance, providing equal opportunities and assistance to all, from rural to urban areas. Through these efforts, the overall development of the state will progress rapidly, he added.

BJP State President Sh Mohan Lal Kaushik described the Antyodaya Melas as a milestone, saying these fairs will benefit all sections of society. Sonipat MLA Sh Nikhil Madan welcomed the Chief Minister and other dignitaries and said, “Today, 5,000 beneficiaries of 19 different schemes have received benefits. Under Chief Minister Sh Nayab Singh Saini’s leadership, this is a unique example of the ‘Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, Sabka Prayas’ initiative in Haryana.

The program was also attended by MLA from Rai Krishna Gehlawat, MLA from Kharkhoda Pawan Kharkhoda, MLA from Gannaur Devendra Kadian, Mayor Rajiv Jain and several other dignitaries.