IEP Chandigarh, February 6

Haryana  Energy Minister,  Sh. Ranjit Singh has directed officers of the electricity board to supply electricity to consumers in rural and urban areas according to the specified schedule and to address public issues at the primary level.

The Energy Minister participated in the Bijli Panchayat organized by the DHBVN in Hisar today, where he listened to the problems of consumers of urban and rural areas. Representatives from 16 gram panchayats of six districts and various villages presented their issues before the Energy Minister.

In the Panchayat, issues such as hanging electricity wires, providing solar panels for panchayat ghar, giving new electricity connections to farmers for shrimp farming, installing transformers, addressing obstacles in 11 and 33-KV lines from residential areas, removing high tension wires over residential and school areas, and resolving electricity-related complaints in dhanis were discussed. The Minister assured swift completion of the relevant tasks.

He said that the work on electricity tubewell connections for applicants of the year 2018-19 has been completed, and the work on tubewell connections from 2020 until now will be completed soon. He directed the officers to expedite the provision of pending electricity connections in dhanis and prioritize consumer-related work.

The Energy Minister further directed electricity department officers  to regularly inspect to curb electricity theft in urban and rural areas. Precautions should be taken on high-voltage lines to prevent any unforeseen events. The pending work of smart meters should be completed promptly.

Later, Sh. Ranjit Singh while addressing the media persons said that farmers are being provided with the highest compensation for crops. A thermal plant of 800 kilowatts will be operational in Yamunanagar by the state government. A proposal has been sent to install an additional unit in the Khedar thermal plant in Hisar. He informed that a new scheme implemented by the government will ensure monthly payment of electricity bills through the app. The pilot project has been started in four districts, including Hisar, he said.

IEP Chandigarh, February 5

The Government of Haryana takes immense pride in announcing yet another significant milestone in the healthcare sector of our state. February 4, marks a historic moment as the First Renal Transplant Surgery was successfully conducted at PGIMS, Rohtak, the first in the government facility in the State of Haryana.

Haryana Chief Minister, Sh. Manohar Lal, congratulated the dedicated medical team consisting of Transplant Surgeons Dr. Vivek Thakur and Dr. Gaurav Shankar Pandey and Nephrologists Dr. Arun Dua and, Dr. Ankur Goel and the Anesthesia team consisting of Dr. Mamta, Professor, Dr. Ashish, Assistant Professor and Dr. Asha, Assistant Professor along with their mentor Dr. Ashish Sharma, Professor Renal Transplant Surgery, PGIMER Chandigarh to make this milestone possible.

The team successfully transplanted both the kidneys of the brain dead donor patient to the two (02) needy patients in PGIMS, Rohtak and also successfully managed to extract the liver of the donor and sent the same to ILBS, Delhi for Liver transplant, thus saving 03 lives. In a compassionate move towards recognizing the selfless act of organ donation, as a small token of gratitude Rs. 5 lakhs was announced to be given to the family of the Donor.

CM further highlighted that Renal transplant is a complex and a lifesaving procedure and now the facility which was earlier only available in private sector hospitals in the State of Haryana at a huge cost of Rs. 8 to 10 lakh will now be available at a nominal amount for poor and needy patients of the State. This achievement is a result of collaborative efforts between the medical professionals at PGIMS, Rohtak, Medical Education Department and the unwavering support of the Government

Health Minister, Sh. Anil Vij said this is a testament of the commitment of our government in enhancing healthcare services and ensuring access to advanced medical treatments for all. He informed that very soon the facility for Liver transplant shall also be available in the Government Sector. He expressed gratitude to the healthcare professionals, support staff, and all those involved in making this achievement a reality. He informed that the success of the first renal transplant PGIMS, Rohtak is a promising start, and the government is committed to continually improve and expand and further strengthen healthcare services for the well-being of the people of the State.

IEP Chandigarh, February 5

Haryana Chief Secretary Sh. Sanjeev Kaushal today inaugurated a two-day conclave organized by High-Level Committee (HLC) for “Urban Planning” in collaboration with the Town and Country Planning Department, Haryana here today.  The conclave was attended by more than 100 participants including bureaucrats and technocrats from the Government of India and State Government Departments. 

The objective of this conclave is to deliberate upon and to share the experiences with the stakeholders about the state-specific initiatives and policies of the State of Haryana on Urban Planning, Public Private Partnership, TOD, TDR, and Affordable housing as well as sharing of the experiences by other senior functionaries from other parts of the country. Based on the deliberations, the Conclave aims to set the future roadmap for urbanization in Haryana.

The speakers from HLC, MoHUA, NITI Aayog, Indian Institute of Human Settlement (IIHS), academic institutes like; SPA, CEPT, Chandigarh College of Architecture (CCA), HRERA, Institute of Urban Finance and Governance, Pune and GIZ etc. delivered the presentation on various aspects concerning Urban Planning during the conclave and shared their experiences and best practices across the country and abroad.

On the first day, four technical sessions were held. The first session was chaired by Sh. Keshav Varma, IAS (Retd.), Chairman, HLC. The theme of the session was ‘Capacity Augmentation of Urban Planning’. In this session, the presentations were made by Sh. Amit Khatri, IAS, Director, Town and Country Planning, Haryana; Dr. P.S.N. Rao, Dean (P&D), SPA New Delhi and Ms. Anshika Gupta, Specialist Urban Development, NITI Aayog.

The Second Session was chaired by Dr. P.S.N. Rao, Dean (P&D), SPA New Delhi. The theme of the session was ‘Haryana Context-Statutory Framework and Role of Authorities’. In this session, the presentations were delivered by Sh. Arun Kumar, Chairman, HRERA, Gurugram; Sh. Parneet Singh Sachdev, Chairman, HRERA, Panchkula; Sh. D.N. Nimbokar, CCP(NCR), Haryana and Sh. Jitender Sihag, CTP (IT&M), Haryana.

        The third technical session was chaired by Sh. V.K. Goyal, Member, HRERA. The theme of the session was ‘Public Private Partnership in Urban Development in Haryana’. In this session, the presentations were delivered by Sh. Sanjay Kumar, STP, T&CP Department, Haryana; Sh. Vinay Maheshwari, President, JBM Group; Sh. Narender Kumar, DTP, T&CP Department, Haryana and Ms. Divya Dogra, DTP, T&CP Department, Haryana.

The fourth session was also chaired by Dr. P.S.N. Rao, Dean (P&D), SPA, New Delhi. The theme of this session was ‘Strengthening Urban Finance & Institutional Mechanism’. In this session, the presentations were delivered by Sh. Ravikant Joshi, Consultant, Urban Finance and Governance, Pune; Sh. Keshav Varma, IAS (Retd.), Chairman, HLC and Sh. Prabhat Kumar, Janaagraha, Centre for Citizenship and Democracy.

An official said that this conclave has given a wider platform to the urban/town planning professionals for cross-learning about practices and techniques of their profession being followed in other states as well as abroad. He further stated that the recommendations of this Conclave will definitely help in improvising the urban planning system being practiced in the State.

Administrative Secretaries, HODs, Town Planners and other Senior functionaries of all related Government Departments/Agencies viz, DULB, HSVP, GMDA, FMDA, PMDA, SMDA, HMRTC, HRERA, etc. and shared the best practices and achievements of their Department/agency.

It may be recalled that the High-Level Committee (HLC) for ‘Urban Planning’ was constituted under the aegis of the Union Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs. The roadmap for the constitution of High-Level Committee for ‘Urban Planning’ was drawn by Smt. Nirmala Sitharaman, Union Finance Minister in her budget speech in 2022-23.

IEP Chandigarh, February 2

President of India, Smt. Droupadi Murmu today inaugurated the 37th Surajkund International Crafts Fair-2024. Haryana Governor Sh Bandaru Dattatreya and Chief Minister Sh Manohar Lal also attended the event.

Following the inauguration, the President commended all teams involved for the successful organization of this fair, which has been organised since 1987. He specifically lauded Haryana Chief Minister Sh Manohar Lal and his team for their efforts in organizing this year’s event.

Highlighting the Republic of Tanzania as the partner country of this year’s fair, she informed the significance of cultural exchanges, which were discussed during her meetings with Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu Hassan in October last year. She said that visitors to the fair will have the opportunity to immerse themselves in the vibrant and colorful arts and crafts of Tanzania, including wood carving, pottery, and weaving. It is a wonderful platform to showcase Tanzanian dance, music and cuisine, in which we can also glimpse some Indian influence due to centuries of people-to-people contact between India and the East African coast. The participation of Tanzania as a partner nation in this fair highlights India’s partnership with the African Union.

Mrs. Droupadi Murmu highlighted the rich art and tradition of Gujarat, the partner state of this year’s fair, as something truly worth experiencing. The diverse and vibrant art forms of the state will be showcased through the skilled craftsmen and artists representing various regions of Gujarat. She also noted that the North Eastern Handicrafts and Handloom Development Corporation Limited is the cultural partner of this year’s fair, further enriching the cultural tapestry of the event. Mrs. Murmu expressed appreciation for the craftsmen who have diligently preserved the artistic heritage of the country, emphasizing that their dedication deserves commendation.

She said that a trade worth more than Rs 20 crore is expected during this fair, which is a huge platform from the economic point of view for the craftsmen and handloom traders.

During the inauguration, the President visited Haryana’s Apna Ghar Pavilion, where she received detailed information about the instruments showcasing Haryanvi culture. She also interacted with artisans while exploring the stalls representing Gujarat, the fair’s theme state. In addition, she took interest in the cultural styles showcased by participating countries and regions, offering encouragement.

Surajkund International Crafts Fair carved a niche in the global tourist calendar – Governor Bandaru Dattatreya

Speaking on this occasion, Haryana Governor Sh Bandaru Dattatreya hailed today as a historic milestone for the state of Haryana, underscoring the significant presence of President Smt. Draupadi Murmu, which has added a new dimension of grandeur to the fair. With her attendance, the day has been etched into the annals of Haryana’s history. Governor Dattatreya said that this year’s fair showcases Gujarat as the theme state, renowned for its cultural diversity and rich civilization, while Tanzania serves as the partner nation, which has the deep-rooted ties with India. He expressed hope that such collaborative events would further strengthen bilateral relations between the nations.

The Governor also highlighted the Surajkund International Fair’s prominent status on the international tourist calendar, noting its evolution into a highly anticipated annual event that consistently achieves success. Last year alone, approximately 14 lakh tourists from India and abroad attended the fair. This year’s 37th edition promises even greater diversity and cultural exchange, with participation expected from artists and craftsmen representing about 50 countries, he added.

Surajkund International Crafts Fair became a symbol of Haryana identity – Chief Minister Manohar Lal

Haryana Chief Minister Sh Manohar Lal extended heartfelt gratitude to President Smt. Droupadi Murmu on behalf of the people of the state for gracing Haryana with her presence. He underscored the historical significance of Surajkund, constructed by King Surajpal of the Tomar dynasty, situated at the foothills of the Aravalli range. Shaped like the rising sun and built in Roman style, Surajkund symbolizes progress, with the International Handicraft Fair, now in its 37th year, holding special significance. He stated that the Surajkund International Crafts Fair has become the identity of Haryana.

The Chief Minister also extended a warm welcome to the artisans and craftsmen from the  partner country, the United Republic of Tanzania, and said that the arts and crafts of the East African country Tanzania will definitely be the center of attraction in this fair. In addition, he highlighted Gujarat as the partner state for this year’s fair, further enhancing the diversity and vibrancy of the event.

He said that this year marks a significant milestone as the fair sees participation from over 40 countries for the first time, setting a new record. Chief Minister highlighted the provision of more than 1000 stalls for craftsmen and artisans, providing them with ample opportunity to showcase their talents and creations. He also emphasized the inclusion of Haryana’s culture through features like Chaupal and Apna Ghar, offering visitors a glimpse into the rich heritage of the state. With expectations of 15 to 20 lakh attendees over the course of the 16-day fair, he anticipated a vibrant and bustling event celebrating art, culture, and tradition.

Sh Manohar Lal said that the artwork and handicrafts crafted by artisans embody the true spirit of self-reliant India. Recognizing their significance, Prime Minister Sh Narendra Modi has made special efforts in this direction. The Surajkund International Handicraft Fair has served as an excellent platform for craftsmen and handloom artisans to showcase their skills for the past 36 years. This fair offers a glimpse into the folk arts, traditional dishes, music, dances, and costumes from various regions. It stands as a trinity of tradition, heritage, and culture, attracting tourists not only from India but from around the world, he added.

The state consistently provides platforms to promote craftsmanship. In addition to this fair, Saras mela are organized at the district level, offering craftsmen and weavers opportunities to exhibit their handicrafts, he added.

Addressing the gathering, Haryana Tourism and Heritage Minister Sh Kanwar Pal Surajkund Crafts Mela is being organized for 37 years and its popularity is increasing every year. He credited the fair’s recent surge in popularity to the visionary leadership of Chief Minister Sh Manohar Lal, under whose guidance it has rapidly expanded. He also highlighted the Chief Minister’s dedicated efforts to elevate tourism and events like Surajkund fair to global prominence, resulting in the participation of various countries in the fair. He extended his best wishes for the immense success of the fair.

Union Minister of State for Heavy Industries Sh Krishan Pal, Haryana Transport Minister Sh Moolchand Sharma, Chief Secretary Sh Sanjeev Kaushal, Director General of Police Sh Shatrujit Kapur and other MPs and MLAs were also present on this occasion.

IEP Chandigarh, February 1

Haryana Chief Minister, Sh. Manohar Lal launched the Haryana Trust-Based Reading Mobile App today for the convenience of electricity consumers. This mobile app is based on the ‘Haryana Trust-Based Reading’ of Haryana DISCOMs.

Energy Minister Sh Ranjit Singh also present on this occasion while Urban Local Bodies Minister Dr. Kamal Gupta joined virtually.

The Chief Minister informed that this Haryana Trust-Based Reading Mobile App is being launched in the initial phase on a pilot basis in the districts of Panchkula, Karnal, Mahendragarh, and Hisar. This initiative is expected to benefit 10,70,000 power consumers. He said that electricity bills in the state are issued once every two months, causing financial difficulties for many consumers who prefer to receive monthly bills.  Fulfilling their demand, this app has been created to choose the option of monthly billing. Through this, consumers can select a bi-monthly or monthly bill.

The Chief Minister further shared that the state government has decided to empower electricity consumers by allowing them to generate their electricity bills. By using this app, consumers can change their billing schedule from bi-monthly to monthly and can generate their electricity bills online by entering the current reading of their meters. He added that consumers can also make payments for their bills through this mobile app.

Principal Secretary to the Chief Minister Sh V. Umashankar, Additional Chief Secretary of Town and Country Planning Department Sh Arun Gupta, Additional Chief Secretary of Finance Department Sh Anurag Rastogi, Additional Chief Secretary of Housing for All Department Sh Raja Shekhar Vundru, Additional Chief Secretary Energy Department Sh A.K. Singh, Chairman of Power Utilities Sh PK Das, Director General of Information, Public Relations, Language and Culture Department Sh Mandip Singh Brar, Managing Director of DHBVN Sh PC Meena, Director General of Housing for All Department Sh TL Satyaprakash, Director of Town and Country Planning Department, Sh Amit Khatri and other officers were also present on this occasion.

IEP Chandigarh, January 31

Haryana Home, Health, and Ayush Minister Sh. Anil Vij said that 22 Ayush Yoga Inspectors/Coaches will be recruited soon through the Haryana Kaushal Rojgar Nigam also the same has been approved by the Chief Minister, Sh.Manohar Lal.

Sh.Vij said that the posts of 22 Ayush Yoga Inspectors/Coaches have been approved and the rules for their appointment have been sent to the Haryana State Staff Selection Commission. However, keeping in mind the public interest, these posts will be recruited through the Haryana Kaushal Rojgar Nigam so that people do not have to face any kind of difficulty.

It is noteworthy that the Haryana Yoga Aayog proposed a plan, forwarded to the Ayush Minister, who then sent it to the Chief Minister for approval. The Chief Minister has approved the proposal.

Sh. Vij said that the Haryana Ayush Department is providing Ayush OPD facilities in 3 Ayurvedic hospitals, 1 Unani hospital, 6 Ayurvedic Primary Health Centers, 6 Panchkarma Centers, 515 Ayurvedic dispensaries, 19 Unani dispensaries, and 26 Homoeopathic dispensaries. This service is also extended to 21 district hospitals, 98 community health centres, and 109 primary health centres under the National Health Mission.

He said that the Ayush budget was Rs.126.12 crore in 2014-15, which has now increased to Rs.448.50 crore in 2023-24. Similarly, the Ayush OPD in the state was 31.89 lakh in 2014-15, which has now increased to 61.86 lakh, it has seen an increase of 93.94 percent.

In addition, the Haryana government has implemented a new policy called “Policy for Certification and Standardization of Ayush Facilities” to promote the Ayush system and facilities. This policy will be in force till October 31, 2027.