Chandigarh, November 7:

Social Security, Women and Child Development Minister Dr. Baljit Kaur said that under the leadership of Chief Minister S.Bhagwant Singh Mann, the Punjab Government is fully committed to the welfare of every section of society, giving special attention to the upliftment and empowerment of persons with disabilities.

Dr. Baljit Kaur informed that the Punjab Government has so far released ₹287.95 crore as financial assistance to persons with disabilities, benefitting 2,76,175 eligible beneficiaries across the state.

She further added that the government has made a budgetary provision of ₹495 crore for the financial year 2025-26 to ensure the effective and transparent implementation of this welfare scheme.

The Minister emphasized that integrating persons with disabilities into the mainstream of society is among the top priorities of the Punjab Government. Along with financial assistance, focused efforts are being made to provide them employment opportunities, skill development training, and accessible infrastructure to make them self-reliant and empowered. She said the government’s aim is not merely to provide assistance, but to enable every specially-abled person to lead a dignified and independent life.

Dr. Baljit Kaur directed the officials to ensure that the benefits of this financial assistance scheme reach every eligible beneficiary and that no deserving person is left out of this initiative.

CHANDIGARH/HOSHIARPUR, November 7:

          In a major breakthrough amidst the ongoing drive to make Punjab a safe and secure state as per directions of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, the Anti-Gangster Task Force (AGTF) Punjab, in a joint operation with Hoshiarpur Police, has arrested two active members of the Jaggu Bhagwanpuria Gang and recovered four sophisticated weapons from their possession, said Director General of Police (DGP) Punjab Gaurav Yadav here on Friday.

          Those arrested have been identified as Swinder Singh alias Bodhi and Sukhman alias Jashan, both residents of Kalanaur in Gurdaspur district. The recovered weapons include two Glock pistols, one Zigana pistol and one PX30 Pistol. Police teams have also impounded their motorcycle, which they were riding.

          DGP Gaurav Yadav said that preliminary investigation has revealed that the duo was active members of the Jaggu Bhagwanpuria gang and were working on the directions of their Foreign handler identified as Amrit Dalam. Bothe the arrested persons were wanted in a firing incident at a medical shop took place in Wadala Bangar, Kalanaur targeting Dr Hari Singh, which was carried out on the directions of their handler, he said.

          The DGP said that further investigation is underway to establish forward and backward linkages in this case to dismantle the whole network.

          Sharing operational details, Additional Director General of Police (ADGP) AGTF Promod Ban said that acting on reliable inputs, police teams from AGTF led by DSP AGTF Jalandhar Range Jatinderjit Singh in coordination with Hoshiarpur Police has arrested both the accused persons from T-Point near Gurdwara Shri Garna Sahib at village Bodla in Dasuya.

          Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Hoshiarpur Sandeep Malik said that both the accused have a criminal background and are involved in cases of Murder, Kidnapping and child trafficking. Further investigation is underway, he said.

          In this regard, a fresh case FIR No. 229 dated 06.11.2025 has been registered under section 25(6) of the Arms Act at Police Station Dasuya in Hoshiarpur.

Chandigarh, November 7:

Taking suo motu cognizance of a media report regarding the disrespectful use of the images of Bhai Jiwan Singh (Bhai Jaita Ji) and Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib Ji during the Tarn Taran Assembly by-election, the Punjab State Scheduled Castes Commission has summoned the Leader of Opposition Pratap Singh Bajwa to appear personally before the Commission on November 10, 2025.

Giving details, Commission Chairman Jasvir Singh Garhi said that the issue came to the Commission’s notice through social media and newspapers. Acting on this, the Commission has directed Pratap Singh Bajwa to be present in person.

In addition, the Deputy Commissioner, Tarn Taran has been instructed through an official communication to submit an inquiry report in this regard by November 17, 2025 through the competent authority. The report is to include the action taken after considering the provisions of the Model Code of Conduct and the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, 1989.

CHANDIGARH/AMRITSAR, November 7:

          In an intelligence-led operation amidst the ongoing drive to make Punjab a drug free state as per directions of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, Amritsar Commissionerate Police has busted two drug supply modules with links to Pakistan-based smugglers with the arrest of two key operatives and recovered a total of 2.815 kg Methamphetamine, commonly known as ICE, from their possession, said Director General of Police (DGP) Punjab Gaurav Yadav here on Friday.

          Those arrested have been identified as Gursevak Singh alias Sevak, a resident of village Gharyala in Tarn Taran and Baljit Singh, a resident of Guru Nanakpura in Amritsar.

          DGP Gaurav Yadav said that preliminary investigation has revealed that the accused were in contact with Pak-based handlers through virtual numbers to coordinate pickup and delivery of drug consignments within Punjab, often selecting delivery points near religious places to avoid suspicion.

          The DGP said that further investigation is on to establish forward and backward linkages in this case.

          Sharing operational details, Commissioner of Police (CP) Amritsar Gurpreet Singh Bhullar said that in the first case, the police set up a checkpoint near Dana Mandi, Amritsar, based on specific intelligence inputs. During the operation, accused Gursevak Singh alias Sevak was apprehended and 40 grams of Methamphetamine (ICE) drug was recovered from his possession.

          He said that on the basis of his disclosure, a follow-up operation led to the recovery of additional chunk of 1.96 kg of ICE drug.

          The CP said that arrested accused Gursevak, who is a resident of the border area, was in regular contact with a Pakistan-based smuggler through virtual communication platforms and had been personally picking up and delivering consignments as directed by his handler.

          In another operation, CP Gurpreet Bhullar said that police teams acting on reliable information set up a checkpoint near Ryan International School at Vallah Bypass Road in Amritsar and arrested suspect Baljit Singh after recovering 45 grams of ICE drug from his possession. further recovery of an additional 770 grams of ICE was made based upon his disclosure, he said.

          He said that further investigation is ongoing to identify cross-border handlers, trace supply routes, and dismantle the entire distribution chain operating between Punjab and Pakistan-based networks.

          In this regard, two separate cases— FIR No 306 dated 06-11-2025 under section 21(B) of the NDPS Act at Police Station Gate Hakima, Amritsar and FIR No. 240 dated 27-10-2025 under section 21(B) and 21(C) of the NDPS Act at Police Station Maqboolpura, Amritsar— have been registered.

SAS Nagar, November 7:

The Punjab Government today gave a grand reception to World Champion cricketers Harleen Deol and Amanjot Kaur on their arrival at Shaheed Bhagat Singh International Airport, Mohali. The duo, members of India’s first-ever Women’s World Cup–winning team, were accorded a warm welcome by the State Government, District a

Administration, and Sports Department amid festive celebrations, drums, and cheers.

Representing Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema, Member of Parliament Gurmeet Singh Meet Hayer, and MLA Dr. Amandeep Kaur Arora led the felicitation. They were joined by District Planning Board Chairperson Prabhjot Kaur, Jaswant Kaur and Councillor Sarbjeet Singh Samana. The atmosphere at the airport was electric, with Punjab’s pride being celebrated through dhol beats, flower garlands, and loud cheers from fans and supporters.

Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema said, “Our daughters have made Punjab and the entire country proud on the world stage. The Chief Minister will soon honour Captain Harmanpreet Kaur, Harleen Deol, and Amanjot Kaur for their historic achievement.”

He added that under the new Sports Policy, the Punjab Government is extending cash awards and government jobs to players, enabling the state to reclaim its position as India’s leading sporting hub.

MP Gurmeet Singh Meet Hayer said that India’s World Cup victory would usher in a new revolution in women’s cricket. This triumph, he noted, is the result of teamwork and determination, and it demonstrates that world-class players are emerging from Punjab’s small towns and villages. He cited the examples of Shubman Gill, Harmanpreet Kaur, Arshdeep Singh, Harleen Deol, and Amanjot Kaur as inspirations for the next generation.

Expressing gratitude, Harleen Deol and Amanjot Kaur thanked the Punjab Government and Chief Minister S. Bhagwant Singh Mann for honouring sportspersons and said that the warm welcome in their home state has inspired them to work even harder. They appealed to parents to encourage their daughters to pursue their ambitions and take pride in their achievements. Both players also expressed their thanks to their families, coaches, and the BCCI for their continuous support and guidance.

The celebrations at the airport culminated in a grand victory procession through the roads of Mohali, where both players were greeted with flower petals and traditional beats as they waved to cheering crowds from open jeeps. Among those present were Amanjot Kaur’s father Bhupinder Singh, Grandfather Ishar Singh, Sister Kamaljot, and Coach Nagesh Gupta, as well as Harleen Deol’s parents B.S. Deol and Charanjit Kaur, and brother Manjot Singh.

Also present on the occasion were Deputy Commissioner Komal Mittal, Dronacharya Awardee Jiwanjot Singh Teja (Director, PIS Training Centre), District Sports Officer Rupesh Kumar Begra, and a large number of sports enthusiasts and admirers who joined in celebrating Punjab’s world champions.

Amritsar, November 7:

Continuing the campaign to provide employment to the youth, Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann today handed over appointment letters to 2,105 young people recruited in the Punjab State Power Corporation. This brings the total number of government jobs given to youth so far to 58,962.

At a ceremony organized at the auditorium of the Government Medical College, Amritsar, the Chief Minister said unemployment is the root of many social problems, and therefore, the state government is focused on eradicating it. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that within about three and a half years of taking office, nearly 58,962 government jobs have been provided to youth, which is a record in itself. He said that today 2,023 linemen, 48 internal auditors, and 35 revenue accountants have been appointed in PSPCL and PSTCL.

The Chief Minister said that Since April 2022, a total of 8,984 appointments have been made in these two corporations. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that this campaign will continue because the state government is putting the highest emphasis on creating employment opportunities for the youth. He expressed pride that all these appointments have been made solely on the basis of merit.

The Chief Minister said that during the previous governments, youth could only get jobs through ‘cash and favor,’ but we have completely ended that practice. Now, he said that government jobs can be obtained purely on merit, without any recommendation adding that not a single appointment has been challenged in court. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that this has deeply upset our opponents who are now making baseless statements against the state government.

Citing the example of Baba Sahib Dr. B. R. Ambedkar, the Chief Minister said that this great national figure endured enormous hardships to achieve greatness, and youth should draw inspiration from him to excel in every field. Despite facing difficulties, he said that the Chief architect of the Indian Constitution attained education and touched remarkable heights in life. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that Every young person should learn from his life and philosophy to achieve success.

The Chief Minister said these newly appointed youth are now an integral part of the government and should serve the people with missionary zeal. He hoped they would use their pens to help the poor and underprivileged. Bhagwant Singh Mann urged them to assist the public as much as possible so that every section of society benefits.

The Chief Minister compared the government to a runway that helps an airplane take off, saying the state government will help youths fulfill their dreams. He pledged that every possible effort will be made to help them realize their aspirations. Bhagwant Singh Mann emotionally appealed to the youth to struggle to carve out their own recognition and place in society.

The Chief Minister said that An idle mind is the devil’s workshop due to which the state government is trying to provide maximum employment to the youth so they remain away from social evils. He appealed all the youngsters to join campaigns like the war against drugs so that the state government can uproot this menace. Speaking about reforms in the power sector, Bhagwant Singh Mann said that Powercom was drowning in debt when his government came to power, but they cleared Rs 2,000 crore of that debt.

Since July 2022, the Chief Minister said that 90% of households have been receiving 600 units of free electricity, which has improved families’ financial conditions. He further said that the government also restarted the Pachhwara coal mine to ensure a steady coal supply, making Punjab a surplus coal state.

Bhagwant Singh Mann further stated that the government purchased the GVK thermal plant in Goindwal Sahib for Rs 1,080 crore and renamed it after the third Sikh Guru, Sri Guru Amar Das Ji.

The Chief Minister said that For the first time in Punjab’s history, a state government has bought private property, whereas previous regimes sold public assets to their favorites for pennies. Blaming past governments for plunging Punjab into debt, he said they inherited a debt of Rs 2.75 lakh crore but, sadly, none of the borrowed money contributed to Punjab’s development. His government, Bhagwant Singh Mann said that is spending every penny on the state’s progress and welfare.

The Chief Minister reiterated that traditional political parties envy him because he comes from a common  background. He said these leaders cannot digest the fact that an ordinary man is running the state so effectively adding that since independence, they have misled people and deprived them of basic amenities, which is why the people have rejected them. Bhagwant Singh Mann remarked that these leaders, educated in boarding schools in the hills, are unaware of Punjab’s ground realities.

Criticizing the BJP-led central government for interfering in Punjab’s matters, the Chief Minister said the Centre is deliberately targeting Punjab. Dissolving the Senate and Syndicate of Panjab University, he said, was a direct attack on the state’s proud heritage. Punjab University is not just an academic institution but an emotional part of Punjabi identity, where three generations have studied. Bhagwant Singh Mann noted that earlier, the Centre had tried to pressure Punjab into merging Haryana colleges with Panjab University, but his government had strongly resisted those moves.

The Chief Minister also said the Centre continues to act unjustly by pressing Punjab to release extra water from the Bhakra Dam to Haryana and Rajasthan, but “we will never bow to such pressure.”

He declared that The central government must stop bullying Punjab. Punjab knows how to fight for its rights and how to claim them.”

Meanwhile, During the event, many of the newly appointed youth emotionally expressed their gratitude to the Chief Minister.

Punjab State Power Corporation Chairman-cum-Managing Director Basant Garg and other dignitaries were also present.

CHANDIGARH, November 7:

          Continuing the war against drugs “Yudh Nashian Virudh” waged by Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann to eradicate drug menace from state consecutively for the 251st day, Punjab Police conducted raids at 244 locations on Friday leading to the arrest of 78 drug smugglers after registration of 70 first information reports (FIRs) across the state. With this, the number of total drug smugglers arrested has reached to 35,641 in 251 days.

          The raids have resulted in recovery of 2.8 kg ICE, 388 grams heroin, 995 intoxicant pills and Rs 24,550 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 100 Police teams, comprising over 800 police personnel, under the supervision of 55 gazetted officers have conducted 244 raids across the state. Police teams have also checked as many as 265 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 29 persons to undergo de-addiction and rehabilitation treatment today.

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.