Chandigarh, February 13: In a significant move to enhance transparency and efficiency in employee data management, the Haryana Government has issued detailed instructions to streamline processes related to OTP generation and employee data on the Security of Service Portal.

A letter in this regard, issued by the Chief Secretary’s Office, has directed all Administrative Secretaries, Heads of Departments, Managing Directors, Divisional Commissioners, and Deputy Commissioners to ensure strict compliance with updated guidelines for uploading accurate data of eligible contractual employees on the HKRNL and Treasuries & Accounts (T&A) databases.

The initiative aims to resolve technical issues that were affecting OTP generation for certain contractual employees. As per the official communication, OTP-related issues were largely linked to incorrect mobile numbers, discrepancies in family ID details, or salary not being drawn from the designated contractual head of account. Departments have now been instructed to verify and certify employee details to enable smooth authentication and service validation.

To ensure accountability and accuracy, concerned authorities including Administrative Secretaries, Heads of Departments, and Drawing and Disbursing Officers (DDOs) have been made responsible for issuing formal certification in cases where discrepancies arise. This certification will confirm the authenticity of contractual employment, mode of engagement, and proper salary disbursement under the appropriate head of account.

The government has also reiterated that the responsibility for managing employee data rests with the Haryana Kaushal Rozgar Nigam Limited (HKRNL) and the Treasuries & Accounts Department. Verified data will be transmitted to the Haryana Knowledge Corporation Limited (HKCL) to ensure seamless integration and uninterrupted functioning of the Security of Service Portal.

In addition, departments have been advised to promptly rectify cases where offices or DDOs are not appearing in the portal’s drop-down menu to avoid operational delays.

These measures will significantly improve the accuracy of employee records, enhance digital governance standards, and ensure timely delivery of services to eligible contractual employees across the State. The instructions have been circulated for immediate implementation across all departments and subordinate offices.

Chandigarh, February 13 – Haryana Cooperation, Heritage and Tourism Minister, Dr. Arvind Sharma today paid a courtesy call on Union Home and Cooperation Minister, Sh. Amit Shah at his office in New Delhi during the ongoing Lok Sabha session.

During the visit, Dr. Sharma shared details about the various steps being taken to strengthen the cooperative sector in Haryana under the leadership of Chief Minister, Sh. Nayab Singh Saini. He said the Haryana Government is continuously working towards strengthening the rural economy and promoting the cooperatives.

The meeting included meaningful discussions on strengthening the cooperative sector, empowering institutional structures, promoting transparency and good governance, and ensuring the overall development of farmers and the rural economy.

Dr. Arvind Sharma expressed his gratitude to Union Minister Sh. Amit Shah for his visionary guidance and valuable suggestions.

Chandigarh:

AAP National Media In-charge Anurag Dhanda launched a sharp attack on Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini, saying that the hard-earned money of Haryana’s people is being used in attempts to buy MLAs in Punjab. He called it a direct attack on democracy and a betrayal of public trust.

Dhanda said that Haryana is currently struggling with serious issues such as unemployment, poor law and order, broken roads, rising drug menace, and neglect of sportspersons. Players have not received their diet allowance for nine months. Pensions of the elderly are being cut. Schemes for women are facing reductions. Youth are wandering in search of jobs. Despite all this, the Chief Minister is not concerned about these issues and is instead busy in political conspiracies.

He said that if the Haryana government has so much money and energy, it should be used to improve governance in the state rather than trying to break MLAs in Punjab. It is shameful that taxpayers’ money is allegedly being spent to destabilize democracy.

Dhanda added that, on the other hand, under the leadership of Bhagwant Mann, the AAP government in Punjab has provided more than 62,000 government jobs in just four years without recommendation or corruption. Governance is being run on transparency and honesty, which is why the BJP is rattled and resorting to conspiracies.

He said that AAP MLAs are not for sale. They are dedicated workers inspired by the ideology of Arvind Kejriwal and cannot be lured by money or positions. Unlike BJP and Congress, AAP does not indulge in politics of deals and bargaining for power.

Dhanda warned Chief Minister Nayab Singh to answer the people of Haryana: when players are practicing on empty stomachs, youth are struggling for employment, and the elderly are worried about pensions, why is his priority political conspiracies in Punjab? The public is watching and will respond at the right time.

The Aam Aadmi Party has made it clear that the politics of buying and selling democracy will not be allowed to succeed at any cost. The Haryana government should spend its remaining tenure serving the people rather than attempting to destabilize democratically elected governments.

CHANDIGARH, 13th February 2026:

The Punjab Cabinet Sub-Committee chaired by Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema on Friday held its second meeting to finalise an extensive, year-long roadmap for commemorating the 650th Parkash Purb of Sri Guru Ravidass Ji, with a clear resolve to elevate the celebrations to a global scale and carry the Guru’s message of equality, humanity and devotion to every corner of the state and beyond.

During the meeting, Finance Minister Advocate Harpal Singh Cheema, Cabinet Minister Dr. Ravjot Singh, Cabinet Minister Tarunpreet Singh Sond, Advisor to the Tourism Department Deepak Bali and special invitee Pawan Tinu held detailed deliberations on the month-wise organisation of programmes, ensuring a balanced blend of spiritual reverence, educational outreach and social welfare initiatives.

Highlighting the spiritual dimension of the celebrations, Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema stated, “Our goal is to celebrate this historic occasion on a scale that reflects the profound impact of Sri Guru Ravidass Ji’s teachings on society. We are committed to ensuring that every citizen, especially our youth, connects with the message of ‘Begampura’—a society free from sorrow and discrimination.”

The committee decided to organise four major Shobha Yatras originating from Varanasi, Faridkot, Jammu and Bathinda, which will converge at Sri Khuralgarh Sahib, the revered tap asthan of Guru ji. It was also resolved to facilitate a Tirath Yatra for pilgrims from different parts of Punjab to visit the Sri Guru Ravidass Ji Janam Sathan Mandir at Seer Govardanpur, Varanasi, enabling devotees to pay obeisance at the sacred birthplace.

To ensure that Guru Ji’s philosophy reaches the younger generation in a meaningful manner, the sub-committee approved seminars on the life and teachings of Sri Guru Ravidass Ji in schools, colleges and universities across the state. The roadmap also includes innovative outreach through drone shows in every district and the screening of documentary films in villages, using modern technology and visual media to strengthen awareness and engagement.

Reinforcing its commitment to environmental sustainability and social service, the committee discussed launching a massive plantation drive involving 6.5 lakh saplings per district dedicated to the 650th anniversary. Statewide blood donation camps, marathons, cycle rallies and grand Kirtan Samagams will also be organised to promote community bonding and physical well-being as part of the year-long commemorations.

Special Principal Secretary to the Chief Minister, Punjab and Secretary Tourism Kumar Amit, Director Tourism Sanjeev Tiwari, and Deputy Director Tourism Yashpal Sharma were also present in the meeting.

The Punjab School Education Board (PSEB) has undertaken extensive technological and administrative measures to ensure the smooth, transparent and foolproof conduct of the upcoming board examinations across the state.

Dr. Amarpal Singh, IAS (Retd.), Chairman, Punjab School Education Board, stated that this year PSEB has introduced an advanced digital tracking system through the newly launched MATQ App, designed to monitor the secure movement of question papers. The app tracks the transportation of confidential question papers from the PSEB headquarters to designated banks for safe custody and subsequently to the concerned examination centers. Photographic evidence is mandatorily uploaded at the time of handing over and receiving the sealed packets. The app captures GPS coordinates and automatically matches them with pre-saved authorized locations, ensuring complete accountability and eliminating the possibility of any discrepancy. The Chairman also stated that a Control Room to solve the grievances is being established at Head Office, to ensure the smooth conduct of examinations.

To enhance convenience for students, roll number slips have been issued with clearly mapped examination centers, enabling candidates to easily locate their respective venues well in advance.

In order to maintain strict secrecy and discipline, observers will be appointed for crucial examinations on the same day. Additionally, more than 300 flying squads have been constituted across Punjab to curb the menace of unfair means and ensure a fair examination environment.

For greater transparency, answer sheets will be distributed in a controlled manner at examination centers. Further strengthening confidentiality, PSEB is introducing barcoding of answer sheets, which will conceal the identity of candidates during evaluation and ensure unbiased marking.

Dr. Amarpal Singh further informed that in a significant reform aimed at fair assessment, practical examinations are being conducted through external examiners for the first time. The practical exams, scheduled from February 2 to February 12, are progressing smoothly across the state.

The Board has established approximately 2,366 examination centers to facilitate candidates. This year, around 2,77,316 students will appear in Class 8 examinations, 2,72,560 students in Class 10, and 2,68,794 students in Class 12. The Class 8 and Class 12 board examinations will commence on February 17, while the Class 10 examinations will begin on March 6.

With these comprehensive technological interventions and strict monitoring mechanisms, PSEB aims to uphold the highest standards of transparency, security and fairness in the conduct of the 2026 Board examinations.

Chandigarh, February 11 – Haryana Public Health Engineering and Public Works Minister, Sh. Ranbir Gangwa said that villagers of Talwandi Rana in Hisar district will soon be provided an accessible, smooth and safe road connectivity to Hisar city. In this regard, he chaired an important meeting at his office in the Secretariat with senior officers from the Haryana Civil Aviation Department, Public Works Department, Forest Department and other departments. Prominent villagers from Talwandi Rana were also present in the meeting.

During the meeting, discussions were held on projects undertaken so far by the government, changes in traffic arrangements after the construction of Hisar Airport, and the difficulties being faced by the villagers of Talwandi Rana. The villagers demanded a smooth and direct road to Hisar.

Sh. Ranbir Gangwa said that the convenience of villagers is the government’s top priority. The government is fully committed to find a solution with seriousness and sensitivity so that the residents of Talwandi Rana do not face any inconvenience. He emphasised that along with development works, the state government is also giving full attention to the basic needs of the people.

Officers of the Haryana Civil Aviation Department provided information on potential route options near the airport and informed about the future expansion plans for Hisar Airport. Meanwhile, Officers of the Public Works Department (PWD) shared various technical and practical suggestions related to road construction. Detailed discussions were held on available government land near Talwandi Rana, forest land, airport land, Dhansu Road, land near the Rajwaha and other possible routes so that a safe, durable and long-term solution can be selected.

The Cabinet Minister directed that a joint committee be formed under the chairmanship of Additional Chief Secretary, Public Works Department, Sh. Anurag Agarwal, to submit a report after considering all aspects. The committee will explore practical and sustainable options while keeping land availability, technical feasibility and future requirements in mind. Representatives of the villagers, along with officers from the Revenue Department, Forest Department, Public Works Department and other concerned departments, will be part of the committee to ensure a transparent and consensus-based decision-making process.

Sh.Ranbir Gangwa further said that this project is not just about building a road, but an important step towards the overall development of the region. Better road connectivity will boost education, healthcare, trade and agricultural activities and create new opportunities for the youth. He also directed officers to prepare a time-bound plan and start the work at the earliest.

The Minister said that the government will certainly reach a solution and provide the villagers of Talwandi Rana with a better, safe and permanent road option as per their demand. The government will work with full commitment to maintain a balance between development and public convenience.

Additional Chief Secretary, Public Works Department, Sh. Anurag Agarwal, Principal Secretary, Civil Aviation, Smt P. Amneet Kumar, former Chairman, Sh.Randhir Singh Dhiru, Advocate, O.P. Kohli from Talwandi Rana Road Bachao Sangharsh Samiti and officers from various departments were present during the meeting.

Chandigarh,

Haryana Pradesh Congress Committee President Rao Narendra Singh has strongly condemned the state government’s decision to determine eligibility for old-age pension on the basis of children’s income. He termed it a completely insensitive, anti-people and anti-elderly policy that strikes at the dignity of senior citizens.
Rao Narendra Singh said,
“Old-age pension is not a government’s charity, but a constitutional and moral right of the elderly. This scheme was introduced to ensure respect and a life of dignity for senior citizens. Today, the government is trying to stop or reduce parents’ pension on the basis of their children’s income—this is not only inhuman, but also a symbol of social injustice, erosion of family values, and an insult to the elderly.”
He further said that in the present times, considering an annual income of ₹3–4 lakh as a sign of prosperity is laughable. When inflation is soaring, medical expenses are burdensome, and it has become difficult to meet basic household needs, depriving even such families of pension exposes the government’s anti-people mindset.
The Pradesh Congress President alleged that the government is deliberately implementing such harsh, impractical and arbitrary criteria so that thousands and lakhs of elderly people can be deprived of this right. This policy, instead of making senior citizens self-reliant, forces them to depend on their children, whereas the reality is that many elderly people live alone, their children live far away, or family support is unavailable.
Rao Narendra Singh has demanded that the Haryana government immediately withdraw this anti-people condition and ensure old-age pension for all eligible senior citizens without any discrimination, so that their dignity and rights are protected.
He clearly warned that if the government does not roll back this decision, the Haryana Congress will launch an agitation at every level—from the streets to the Assembly—to protect the respect, dignity and rights of the elderly. The party will stand shoulder to shoulder with senior citizens in this fight.

Chandigarh, February 10 – Haryana Chief Minister Sh. Nayab Singh Saini chaired a high-level review meeting of budget expenditure of various departments and the progress of key departmental schemes here today. Senior administrative officials of concerned departments were present in the meeting.

Reviewing the schemes of the Energy (Power) Department, the Chief Minister directed the officials to accelerate the solarisation of agriculture pumps across the state. He emphasized that the PM-KUSUM scheme must be implemented in a time-bound manner so that maximum number of farmers can benefit from it. He stated that surplus power generated through solar pumps should be fed back into the government grid, ensuring its optimum and judicious utilization for public welfare. He also instructed the officials to expedite the installation of rooftop solar systems on all government buildings in the state. He directed that rooftop solar panels should also be installed at bus stands, HAFED godowns and other government-owned infrastructure. The Chief Minister highlighted that Prime Minister Sh. Narendra Modi has laid special emphasis on expanding renewable energy production through rooftop solar under the PM Suryaghar Muft Bijli Yojana.

During the meeting, officials informed that surveys of 5,000 government buildings have already been completed and the process of installing rooftop solar panels is underway. The Chief Minister directed that Deputy Commissioners of all districts shall actively monitor and fast-track the implementation of this scheme.

While reviewing the Transport Department schemes, the Chief Minister directed officials to identify bus stands that are in poor condition and ensure their timely repair and maintenance. He was informed that the bus stands at Kanina, Barwala, Tohana and Nigdhu are nearing completion, while work is in progress at Badli, Nilokheri, Bahal and other locations. The Chief Minister further stressed the need to expand electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure across the state and increase the number of electric buses to promote eco-friendly public transportation and reduce carbon emissions.

Reviewing the schemes of the Industries Department, the Chief Minister directed officials to provide greater incentives to small industries and MSMEs. He emphasized the need to frame policies that encourage entrepreneurship, particularly among women and economically weaker sections of society, to promote inclusive economic growth.

While discussing the Environment, Forests and Wildlife Department, the Chief Minister directed officials to take strict action against illegal felling of Khair trees. He instructed the department to take proactive measures to prevent deforestation, increase green cover and ensure proper marking of trees across the state. He also emphasized the need for focused conservation efforts in the Aravalli region.

During the review of the Foreign Cooperation Department, the Chief Minister directed officials to establish stronger direct engagement with the NRI diaspora and extend necessary support wherever required. He added that the department is also working on programmes to teach foreign languages to students aspiring to study or work abroad.

Reviewing the functioning of the Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare Department, the Chief Minister described farmers as the backbone of Haryana’s economy and reiterated the government’s commitment to enhancing their productivity and income. He directed that more ‘Har Hith Stores’ be opened and handed over to CM PACS and Self-Help Groups (SHGs) to empower women and economically weaker sections by creating sustainable livelihood opportunities.

The Chief Minister further stated that pulse production should be encouraged in the state and directed the department to formulate a special policy to incentivize farmers cultivating pulses. He emphasized that Haryana should strive towards ‘Aatmanirbharta’ in pulse production in line with the vision of Prime Minister Sh. Narendra Modi. He also called for greater promotion of organic farming and directed officials to design a dedicated scheme to support and encourage farmers to adopt organic agricultural practices.

During the meeting, the Chief Minister also reviewed the Budget expenditure and scheme progress of Sainik & Ardh Sainik Welfare, Fisheries, Sports, and other key departments.

Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare Minister Sh. Shyam Singh Rana, Industries and Commerce Minister Rao Narbir Singh, Chief Principal Secretary to CM Sh. Rajesh Khullar, Principal Secretary to Chief Minister, Sh. Arun Kumar Gupta, Additional Principal Secretary to CM, Dr. Saket Kumar, Additional Chief Secretary, Environment, Forests & Wildlife, Sh. Sudhir Rajpal, Additional Chief Secretary, Transport. Sh. Raja Sekhar Vundru, Commissioner  & Secretary, Finance, Mohammed Shayin and other senior officers were present in the meeting.

Chandigarh:

In a constructive step towards addressing the concerns of traders and street vendors, the Municipal Corporation Chandigarh today reviewed issues related to vending in Sector 22 Market through a detailed interaction with key stakeholders.

MC Joint Commissioner Dr. Himanshu Gupta held an extensive meeting with representatives of the Market Welfare Association and street vendors to gain first-hand insight into their genuine concerns and operational challenges. The meeting was also attended by the Enforcement  Superintendent, Market Welfare Association President Sh. Parveen Duggal, concerned Inspectors, MC Health Supervisor, and the area Chief Sanitary Inspector to ensure a comprehensive and practical assessment of on-ground issues.

During the interaction, vendors and association members put forth their difficulties and suggestions, which were heard patiently and with due seriousness. Dr. Gupta assured all participants that the genuine issues raised by both the Market Welfare Association and vendors would be addressed in a balanced and fair manner, keeping the interests of all stakeholders in view.

To strengthen vigilance and improve overall market management, it was decided during the meeting that CCTV cameras will be installed in the Sector 22 Market. The step aims to enhance monitoring, ensure better compliance, and maintain a safe and orderly market environment for traders, vendors, and visitors alike.

Emphasising the importance of orderly and regulated vending, the Joint Commissioner advised vendors to operate strictly in accordance with the Street Vendors (Protection of Livelihood and Regulation of Street Vending) guidelines. He further informed that all matters discussed during the meeting would be placed before the upcoming Town Vending Committee (TVC) meeting for detailed deliberation and final decision.

The interaction reinforced the Municipal Corporation’s commitment to inclusive governance, dialogue-based solutions, and the creation of a harmonious market ecosystem that safeguards livelihoods while ensuring civic discipline.

Chandigarh, February 10 – Haryana Chief Minister Sh. Nayab Singh Saini announced that the grant given as an incentive to outstanding Panchayats working for the welfare of Scheduled Castes will be increased from ₹50,000 to ₹1 lakh. He also announced the establishment of an Investigation Wing in every police station.

Chief Minister Sh. Nayab Singh Saini was chairing the meeting of the State-Level Vigilance and Monitoring Committee to review the implementation of the provisions of the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, 1989 and the Protection of Civil Rights Act, 1955 in Chandigarh. Development and Panchayat Minister Sh. Krishan Lal Panwar and Social Justice and Empowerment Minister Sh. Krishan Kumar Bedi were also present in the meeting.

The Chief Minister said that the criteria for selecting outstanding Panchayats include ensuring that no atrocities are committed against SCs, full utilization of SC Component funds, conducting campaigns against drug abuse in villages, preventing stubble burning, resolving drinking water problems, among others. For this, provision has been made for Panchayat incentives at the state, district, and sub-division levels.

The Chief Minister said that in SC/ST cases, charge sheets should be filed in court within 60 days so that such cases can be disposed of expeditiously. He said that under the three new criminal laws implemented by the government, there is also a provision to file charge sheets within 60 days. Separate investigating officers should also be appointed for these cases.

Sh. Nayab Singh Saini said that since 2021, crimes against women, apart from Scheduled Castes, have declined in the state. In addition, there has also been a decrease in cases of robbery, property-related crimes, and threats. He said that atrocities or harassment against Scheduled Castes will not be tolerated at any level. Immediate action should be taken in such cases. At the same time, if anyone files a false complaint, action should also be taken against them. In cases of mutual compromise, it should be examined whether the settlement was made under pressure or inducement.

The Chief Minister said that eminent citizens should be included in meetings held at district and sub-division levels. In addition, in every district, the Deputy Commissioner must conduct at least four District Vigilance and Monitoring Committee meetings within a year to review the SC Act. He informed that during 2025-26, financial assistance amounting to ₹8.84 crore was provided for relief and rehabilitation to 796 victims of atrocities.

The Chief Minister said that under the Social Harmony Inter-Caste Marriage Shagun Scheme, financial assistance of ₹31.62 crore was provided to 1,265 beneficiaries during the current financial year, including 807 women and 458 men. This is a commendable step towards social harmony. Apart from this, speech, essay competitions, debates, and seminars on prevention of atrocities are being organized in schools and colleges.

The meeting was attended by the Chief Minister’s Chief Principal Secretary Sh. Rajesh Khullar, Additional Chief Secretary Sh. Sudhir Rajpal,  Smt. G. Anupama, Principal Secretary to the Chief Minister Sh. Arun Gupta, Additional Principal Secretary Dr. Saket Kumar, DGP Sh. Ajay Singhal  along with other members.