The Director General of Police (DGP), Haryana, Shri Ajay Singhal, today shared his views on the necessity of ‘Sovereign AI’ in the context of national security at the *India AI Impact Summit 2026*, held at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi. The summit was organized by the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY), Government of India, in collaboration with KPMG India. The theme of the summit was *“Sovereign AI for National Security: India’s Path To Digital Sovereignty,”* bringing together policymakers and security experts from India and abroad.

*AI: Opportunity, Challenge, and the Need for Technological Independence*

DGP Shri Singhal stated that after the internet and mobile revolutions, Artificial Intelligence has emerged as an immensely powerful technology capable of redefining governance and security frameworks. He emphasized that AI is not merely a tool to accelerate processes but a transformative force reshaping governance, security systems, and societal structures. He cautioned that if AI development is not anchored in a secure, indigenous, and trustworthy ecosystem, critical national security systems could face significant risks. Referring to the five layers of AI—energy, chips, infrastructure, models, and applications—he underlined that self-reliance at the application level alone is insufficient. The entire technological ecosystem, including electricity, semiconductor chips, data, and servers, must remain secure and under national control to ensure uninterrupted functioning of security mechanisms during crises.

**Emerging Security Risks and the Road to Police Modernization**

The DGP expressed concern over the increasing misuse of AI, which could lead to sensitive data breaches, disruptions in emergency services, algorithmic manipulation, deepfakes, and sophisticated cyberattacks. He stressed that law enforcement agencies must be technologically empowered and well-trained to effectively counter such emerging threats. Highlighting Haryana Police’s proactive approach, he stated that the force is prioritizing technology-driven smart policing and continuously upgrading its capabilities to tackle cybercrime and digital threats. He also emphasized the importance of public–private partnerships in developing AI-based investigative and intelligence systems, while asserting that such collaborations must operate within a robust legal framework ensuring accountability, transparency, and adherence to constitutional values. The principles of security, public trust, and legitimacy must remain paramount in the deployment of AI technologies.

*Sovereign AI as a Strategic Imperative*

The DGP concluded by stating that Sovereign AI is a strategic necessity for national security. He underscored the need for India to build an AI framework that is indigenous, secure, and aligned with constitutional principles. Sovereign AI, he explained, refers to artificial intelligence systems that are developed, controlled, and operated by the nation itself, ensuring that data, technology, and servers remain free from external control and that national security and privacy are fully safeguarded. He affirmed that the decisions taken today will shape the future architecture of India’s security ecosystem.

Chandigarh, February 14:- In a decisive move to ensure transparency and uniform enforcement at all paid parking sites, the Municipal Corporation Chandigarh has clarified that no electric vehicle (EV) shall be exempted from payment of parking charges at any paid parking site under its jurisdiction.

The directions were issued by Sh. Amit Kumar, IAS, Commissioner, MC Chandigarh, to all officials concerned with the management and supervision of paid parking sites. The Commissioner categorically stated that there is no provision for free parking, including for a duration of 15 minutes, and all vehicles entering paid parking areas must pay the prescribed charges without exception.

During a surprise inspection at the paid parking site in Sector 7 today, the Commissioner personally reviewed on-ground operations and functioning of the staff deployed. It was observed that two vehicles were allowed to exit the parking premises without issuance of any parking slip or valid pass. Taking serious note of the lapse, he immediately directed the concerned Executive Engineer to change the deployment areas of the employees involved with immediate effect.

Further reinforcing the zero-tolerance approach, the Commissioner directed that no vehicle, including those engaged in delivery services such as Swiggy, Zomato, or any other platform, shall be allowed entry or exit without payment of prescribed parking charges.

The Executive Engineers of Road Division No. 1, 2 and 3 have been instructed to ensure that all parking attendants under their respective jurisdictions strictly comply with these directions. Any deviation will invite strict administrative action.

Chandigarh:

The Chandigarh Renewable Energy, Science & Technology Promotion Society (CREST), Chandigarh Administration, will organise Solar Awareness and Facilitation Camps on 15 February 2026 (Sunday) under the flagship Government of India scheme PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana.

The initiative aims to promote the installation of rooftop solar systems among residential households and to facilitate citizens with on-the-spot registration and guidance regarding subsidy and loan benefits.

Representatives from leading banks and registered empanelled vendors will remain present at the camps to assist residents with registration, loan formalities and technical queries.

Camp Locations and Contact Details:
1. Sector 34 Market
Officers: Nitish Sharma, APM & Navdeep, Jr. Tech
Mobile: 9115504496
2. Dhanas
Officers: Bhupender Saini, APM & Hardyal, APM
Mobile: 9646762196
3. Manimajra
Officers: Pankaj, JE & Akashdeep
Mobile: 8146103064
4. Sukhna Lake
Officers: Rajnish Sharma, PM & Rohit, Steno
Mobile: 9914925685
5. CHB Flats, Sector 61
Officers: Bhupinder Singh, PM & Vivek Rana
Mobile: 7015859162

Key Highlights for Citizens:
• Central Financial Assistance (Subsidy) up to ₹78,000 for residential rooftop solar systems.
• Low-interest bank loans (up to 6% ROI) through leading banks.
• Single-window facilitation by CREST for vendor selection, technical guidance and grievance redressal.
• Direct transfer of subsidy amount into beneficiary bank accounts.

How to Apply:

Residents may visit the official portal www.pmsuryaghar.gov.in or approach the CREST facilitation desk at the respective camp venues for detailed guidance and assistance.

Citizens are encouraged to participate in large numbers and take advantage of this initiative towards clean energy adoption and reduced electricity bills.

Chandigarh, 14 February 2026:

Today, Dr. Virendra Kumar, Hon’ble Union Minister of Social Justice and Empowerment, formally inaugurated the 29th edition of Divya Kala Mela at the Sector-34 Ground, Chandigarh. He described the Mela as a transformative initiative that has become a beacon of hope for Divyangjan across the country, reflecting the Government’s commitment to inclusive growth and equal opportunity.

The Minister highlighted the significant shift in approach since 2014 under the leadership of Narendra Modi, noting that the adoption of the respectful term “Divyang” symbolized a broader change in vision towards dignity and empowerment. He referred to key initiatives such as the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016 and the Sugamya Bharat Abhiyan, which have strengthened accessibility, participation and economic inclusion. He emphasized that true respect must translate into livelihood opportunities and self-reliance, which Divya Kala Mela actively promotes by connecting Divyang artisans and entrepreneurs directly to markets.

Sh. Satnam Singh Sandhu, Hon’ble Member of Parliament (Rajya Sabha), stated that while according respect to Divyangjan aligns with India’s cultural ethos, empowerment through livelihood is equally essential. He appreciated the Ministry’s efforts in organizing Divya Kala Mela, which enables Divyang youth to showcase and sell their products closer to home.

Sh. Saurabh Joshi, Mayor of Chandigarh, termed the event a celebration of talent, confidence and human potential. He said that hosting Divya Kala Mela, Divya Kala Shakti and the Rozgar Mela reflects Chandigarh’s commitment to inclusivity and reinforces the belief that disability is not a limitation but a distinct ability.

Shri Rajiv Sharma, Joint Secretary, Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (DEPwD), highlighted the economic impact of the initiative. Over the past three years, Divya Kala Melas across 28 cities have facilitated business transactions worth ₹2366.43 lakh, with participation of around 2,362 Divyang entrepreneurs generating income exceeding ₹23 crore. Loans of over ₹20 crore have also been sanctioned to strengthen entrepreneurship. Parallel Rozgar Melas have seen 3,131 candidates participate, with 1,007 shortlisted and over 313 receiving job offers.

The Chandigarh Mela features around 75 stalls set up by Divyang entrepreneurs, Government institutions and NGOs. A dedicated Rozgar Mela for Divyangjan will be held on 19 February 2026. Visitors can register for assistive devices at the ALIMCO stall, while inclusive sports activities such as Boccia and Blind Cricket, along with daily cultural performances, are adding vibrancy to the event. A special cultural programme, “Divya Kala Shakti,” will be presented on 21 February 2026.

The 29th Divya Kala Mela stands not merely as a marketplace but as a movement, reinforcing the message that economic empowerment of Divyangjan strengthens families, communities and the nation, and advances the vision of an inclusive India built on dignity and self-reliance.

Chandigarh, 14 February 2026:
The Hon’ble Prime Minister of India, Shri Narendra Modi, today virtually flagged off 25 Electric Buses for the city of Chandigarh from Guwahati under the PM e-Bus Sewa Scheme. The event was held in the august presence of Governor of Punjab & Administrator of UT Chandigarh, Sh. Gulab Chand Kataria. Also, present were Sh. Saurabh Joshi, Mayor, UT Chandigarh, Sh. H. Rajesh Prasad, Chief Secretary, UT Chandigarh, Sh. Mandip Singh Brar, Home Secretary, Sh. Diprava Lakra, Secretary Transport, and Sh. Pradhuman Singh, Director Transport, UT Chandigarh and other officials of UT Chandigarh.

The Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs, Govt of India has sanctioned 428 buses for the City of Chandigarh under PM e-Bus Sewa Scheme. For first lot of 100 buses, Convergence Energy Services Limited under the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs, Govt of India had invited e-Tender for Hiring of buses for the city of Chandigarh and accordingly Agreement has been signed @ Rs 61.80 per KM with the Lowest Operator by Chandigarh Administration. Under the Hiring Model Procurement, Maintenance and Operation is done by the Operator and Department collects the Fare Revenue.

As Chandigarh Administration is striving towards Green Transport as such as on date, in the Chandigarh City, 80 electric buses are under Operation and after adding today’s 25 Flagged Off buses, total 105 buses will be in operation in Chandigarh. After delivery of rest of 75 buses there will be total 180 electric buses by the end of April/May 2026.

The newly inducted 12-metre low-floor air-conditioned electric buses have a range of 224 km on a single charge. Key features include a 400 mm low floor for easy boarding, especially for senior citizens, children and women; a power-operated ramp and electronically controlled kneeling mechanism for Divyangjan commuters; seating capacity of 36 passengers plus driver and wheelchair space, with standing capacity of 20 passengers; air suspension at front and rear; disc brakes at the front; passenger information displays at the front, side and rear; and voice-enabled next stop announcements.

For enhanced safety and monitoring, the buses are equipped with people-counting cameras at both doors, five CCTV cameras (including passenger area, driver behaviour, reverse and dashboard views), AIS-140 compliant GPS devices, panic buttons integrated with the Command Control Centre of the State Transport Authority, and stop request buttons for passenger convenience.

The 25 buses flagged off today will operate on the following routes:

• Route No. 22 – ISBT-43 to IT Park and vice versa
• Route No. 30A – ISBT-43 to Cantonment and vice versa
• Route No. 240 – ISBT-43 to Mata Mansa Devi via Sector 43/44 & Kisan Bhawan and vice versa
• Route No. 241 – ISBT-43 to Mata Mansa Devi via Sector 52/53 & YPS Chowk and vice versa

Chandigarh Administration remains committed to promoting green and eco-friendly public transport. By the end of FY 2027–28, all diesel buses operating within the tri-city area will be replaced with electric buses. In addition, 70 more buses will be added to strengthen the fleet. This will take the total number of electric buses in Chandigarh to 508, significantly reducing carbon emissions, improving urban mobility and enhancing the quality of life for citizens.

Chandigarh, 14 February 2026:
The Union Minister of Social Justice & Empowerment, Dr. Virender Kumar, today inaugurated “Nurturing Empowerment Through Reading Access (NETRA)”, a Digital Library for the Visually Impaired, at PRAYAAS, Sector 38-B, Chandigarh.

The inauguration ceremony was held in the august presence of Sh. Satyapal Jain, Ex-MP & Additional Solicitor General of India; Sh. Rajeev Sharma, Joint Secretary in Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities; Smt. Anuradha Chagti, Secretary Social Welfare, Women & Child Development; Smt. Palika Arora, Director Social Welfare, Chandigarh Administration and Sh. Anil Kumar, Chairman-cum-Managing Director NDFDC.

NETRA has been established with the objective of ensuring accessible and inclusive reading facilities for persons with visual impairments. The Digital Library is equipped with modern assistive technologies including screen-reading software, Braille-enabled systems, digital reading devices, and other accessible learning tools. The facility aims to empower visually impaired beneficiaries by providing independent access to educational resources, competitive examination materials, and digital knowledge platforms.

Speaking on the occasion, the Hon’ble Union Minister emphasized the Government of India’s commitment towards implementation of the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016, and highlighted the importance of technology-driven solutions in ensuring equal access and opportunities for Divyangjans.

The Chandigarh Administration reiterated its continued commitment towards inclusive development and strengthening of rehabilitation and empowerment initiatives for persons with disabilities.

The event concluded with interaction with beneficiaries and a visit to the newly established digital library facility.

Chandigarh, February 14 – Haryana’s Energy, Transport and Labour Minister, Sh. Anil Vij said that it is a matter of great pride for the entire country that the Prime Minister today landed a very large aircraft on a highway. He said that Congress prime ministers were afraid to visit the Northeast because of China. Congress completely neglected that region and did not carry out any development there. On the other hand, Sh. Vij criticized Congress, calling it a “Ramlila party,” and said that the party no longer has people, so they keep changing uniforms and appearing in different roles.

Sh. Vij was responding to questions from media personnel today.

*Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s landing near the China border created history – Vij*

 

A historic moment was witnessed in Dibrugarh, Assam, when Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s aircraft landed on a highway. Regarding this, Sh. Vij said that after Narendra Modi became Prime Minister, he gave special attention to the Northeast. Development took place there, vehicles were introduced, roads were constructed, and a record was established that an aircraft could land on a highway. Today, by landing on the highway, this has been demonstrated to the entire world.

*Security shield became impenetrable under the Modi government, India’s dominance in the skies will increase with 114 Rafale jets – Vij*

 

To strengthen the country’s security system, the Indian Air Force is set to purchase 114 Rafale jets. On this, Energy Minister Anil Vij said that since Narendra Modi’s government came to power, continuous efforts have been made to strengthen the armed forces for national security. New weapons are constantly being purchased, and India has progressed in the defense sector and is also exporting defense products.

*“Congress is a ‘Ramlila party’, artists come wearing different uniforms” – Vij*

 

Responding to a question regarding Congress leader Rahul Gandhi speaking with farmer leaders, Energy Minister Anil Vij said that just as in Ramlila the same actors wear different costumes and sometimes join Ravana’s army and sometimes Ram’s army, in the same way Congress members sometimes appear as laborers, sometimes as farmers, and sometimes as traders. He said Congress no longer has its own people, so they keep changing uniforms and appearing in different roles.

*The opposition comes to the House not to discuss but to disrupt – Vij*

 

The opposition has been creating an uproar over the trade deal with the United States. On this, Energy Minister Anil Vij took a dig at the opposition, saying that they have nothing left except creating obstacles. He said it is necessary to present one’s views and raise public issues in the Lok Sabha, but coming from home with the intention of disrupting proceedings—sometimes picking up a book, sometimes something else—is not appropriate. Vij said that discussions in the House concern the future of 1.4 billion people and national interest, yet the opposition disrupts it. There is a difference between discussing and disrupting. They do not know how to engage in discussion, but they come prepared with different tactics to disrupt the Lok Sabha.

Chandigarh:

The Member of Parliament from Sirsa, former Union Minister and Congress National General Secretary Kumari Selja has written to Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini, raising several key development issues concerning the Sirsa–Fatehabad–Jind region. A state-level DISHA committee meeting was held on February 11, 2026, which Selja could not attend due to the ongoing Parliament session. Expressing her inability to be present, she sent a letter to the Chief Minister requesting that her public interest suggestions be placed before the committee.

In her letter, Kumari Selja referred to pending issues from the previous meeting and sought an updated progress report on the Indo-Israel Centre of Excellence located in village Mangeana (Sirsa). She also asked that the committee be informed about action taken on the proposal to declare the centre as a regional campus of Maharana Pratap Horticultural University, Karnal. Considering the large number of horticulture farmers in the Sirsa–Fatehabad region, she emphasized the need for additional budget allocation and resources, along with updated progress reports on ongoing development works in the three districts. On railway matters, Kumari Selja expressed concern that although ₹410 crore had been earmarked for the Agroha rail line in a previous Railway Budget, the project finds no mention in the current budget. She urged the DISHA committee to send a support letter to the Railway Ministry, highlighting the project’s significance for faith-based tourism, agricultural trade and regional development, and to seek its early approval. She also demanded the introduction of a new intercity express service on the Sirsa–Meham–Rohtak route following the completion of the Hansi–Meham rail line.

Under national highway projects, she called for the early commencement of the proposed NH-709 (Chautala–Panipat–Meerut), priority approval for NH-703 (Jalandhar–Taranagar via Sirsa), and swift clearance of the Sirsa southern bypass.

Addressing irrigation, environment and health concerns, Kumari Selja stressed the need for a comprehensive plan to permanently resolve waterlogging (seepage) issues in the Sirsa–Fatehabad region. She also demanded a joint Haryana–Punjab investigation into polluted drains flowing into the Ghaggar river and called for the establishment of special cancer treatment centres in Sirsa and Fatehabad in view of rising cancer cases.

On local issues in Sirsa city, she sought early approval of the proposed Railway Overbridge (ROB) at Chattargarh Mini Bypass, priority implementation of the Court Road ROB, and expedited progress in the ongoing sewer works. She further suggested temporarily reopening the old Chattargarh Patti railway crossing to ensure smooth traffic management during ROB and sewer construction. Kumari Selja expressed confidence that the DISHA committee would seriously consider these public welfare suggestions and issue necessary directions to the concerned departments.

Chandigarh, February 14 – Haryana Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare Minister, Sh. Shyam Singh Rana said that the government has launched several schemes to promote horticulture crops, and farmers are directly benefiting from them. He said the state government is farmer-friendly and implements schemes related to farmers with great seriousness. When market prices of fruits and vegetables fall, farmers are provided direct compensation under the ‘Bhavantar Bharpai Yojana’ to maintain a balance between production and costs.

The Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare Minister, Sh. Shyam Singh Rana Minister was speaking as the Chief Guest at a programme organised by the Horticulture Department at Yamunanagar under the Integrated Horticulture Mission.

He said the state government has set new benchmarks in horticulture, beekeeping and sustainable agriculture. The government is continuously working to increase farmers’ income and are developing schemes in their interest.

Farmers adopting protected cultivation are being provided subsidy assistance ranging from 50 to 85 percent, he added.

He further said that Haryana is among the leading states in establishing Centres of Excellence to demonstrate the latest technologies in the horticulture sector. The state has also emerged as a leader in adopting protected farming and advanced agricultural technologies. These techniques have significantly increased crop yield and multiplied farmers’ income. Besides this, Haryana is the first state in the country to implement the ‘Bhavantar Bharpai Yojana’. Through these visionary and farmer-friendly policies, the Haryana government is continuously working to increase farmers’ income, make agriculture profitable, and develop the state as a hub of agricultural innovation.

Chandigarh, February 14 – Haryana Chief Minister Sh. Nayab Singh Saini said that Prime Minister Sh. Narendra Modi has set the target of making India a developed nation by 2047, and Haryana will play a significant role in achieving this vision. He said the state government is continuously working towards this goal and formulating new schemes to accelerate growth. The Chief Minister was addressing a programme in New Delhi on Saturday.

He stated that Haryana has emerged as the first choice for investors. In the previous budget, the state government announced the establishment of 10 new Industrial Model Townships (IMTs). Work is progressing rapidly on six of these IMTs, while the remaining four will also be completed soon. He said the state ranks first in GST collection. Haryana’s road infrastructure is so well developed that one can travel from one end of the state to the other in about three-and-a-half to four hours. The state enjoys direct connectivity to Delhi Airport, Chandigarh Airport and Hisar Airport. Keeping all these factors in mind, investors are continuously choosing Haryana, which will strengthen the state’s role in building a ‘Viksit Bharat’.

Haryana Has Established Its Identity in Every Sector

Chief Minister Sh. Nayab Singh Saini said that when Haryana was carved out of Punjab as a separate state in 1966, many doubted its progress. However, Haryana advanced rapidly and created its own distinct identity. Today, 10 percent of the personnel in the Indian Armed Forces belong to Haryana. In sports, whenever India wins a medal, players from Haryana make a significant contribution. Out of the Fortune 500 companies, around 250 operate in Haryana. The state ranks first in automobile manufacturing in the country. The state government will soon introduce a new industrial policy, which will attract more investors to Haryana.

Industrial Infrastructure Being Developed with Long-Term Planning

The Chief Minister said that industrial infrastructure in the state is being developed with careful planning to ensure that there are no issues for the next 50 years. The fruit market at Ganaur is nearly complete. There are also plans to relocate the Khari Baoli dry fruit market, marble trading market and Amritsar’s Majith Mandi to Haryana. Traders from these markets have shown interest in setting up operations in Haryana. He added that Haryana will also establish its identity in natural farming. Emphasizing environmental protection, he appealed to farmers not to burn crop residue. As a result of sustained efforts, incidents of stubble burning have reduced by up to 95 percent. The Hon’ble Court has cited Haryana as an example for effective stubble management, he added.

Prime Minister Has Transformed the Country

Chief Minister Sh. Nayab Singh Saini said that while the Congress party ruled the country for 55 years, Prime Minister Sh. Narendra Modi has transformed the nation in just 11 years. He said the opposition is not fulfilling its role responsibly. The Prime Minister had set the target of making India the fifth-largest economy in the world, and this goal has been achieved. Under his leadership, the government has delivered on every parameter.

India–EU Agreement Will Benefit Haryana

Chief Minister Sh. Nayab Singh Saini said following the India–European Union Free Trade Agreement, he convened a meeting of the Haryana European Trade Association. He welcomed the decision of the Government of India and praised Prime Minister Sh. Narendra Modi for the agreement. He said the agreement would provide significant benefits. Suggestions received during the meeting will be incorporated into the upcoming state budget. He added that continuous efforts are being made to further strengthen infrastructure in Gurugram. A drainage plan has been prepared for low-lying areas of Gurugram. A comprehensive plan has also been formulated to ensure that Gurugram does not face drinking water shortages for the next 50 years.

On this occasion, Commissioner and Secretary, Industries and Commerce Department, Dr. Amit Kumar Agrawal; Director General, Industries and Commerce Department, Sh. Yash Garg; CCI, HSIIDC, Sh. Sunil Sharma; and other senior officers were present.