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A wonderful serenity has taken possession of my entire soul, like these sweet mornings of spring which I enjoy with my whole heart.

Chandigarh, Punjab

“AN INSULT, NOT AID”: AMAN ARORA LAMBASTES PM MODI’S “CRUEL JOKE” OF A RELIEF PACKAGE

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Chandigarh, September 9:

 Punjab Cabinet Minister and Aam Aadmi Party State President Mr. Aman Arora today expressed his profound disappointment over the Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s “paltry and insulting” relief package of Rs. 1600 crores for a state staring at losses exceeding Rs. 20,000 crores from catastrophic floods. The Prime Minister was visiting the flood-ravaged state, on Tuesday.

Mr. Arora did not mince words, accusing the PM of delivering a “cruel joke” to the people of Punjab instead of the meaningful national response they had hoped for.

“The Prime Minister came, saw, and offered a pittance,” Arora stated. “While our farmers stand amidst the ruins of their lives—their homes, their crops, their livestock washed away—the Centre’s response is not just inadequate, it is a blatant insult. Rs. 1600 crore is a slap in the face of every citizen who has lost everything.”

He said that the Chief Minister S. Bhagwant Singh Mann led Punjab Government has been demanding the immediate release of Rs 60,000 crore in stalled funds for the state’s survival and Rs. 20,000 crore for flood relief package but this token amount makes a mockery of the scale of destruction. It reveals a blatant disregard for the plight of Punjabis.

“The soul of Punjab, our agriculture, has been shattered,” said an emotional Mr. Aman Arora, “The crops our farmers nurtured like their own children have been wiped out just 15-20 days before harvesting. There is no chance of resowing. Our farmers have lost an entire season’s income.” He highlighted that a total of 4.80 lakh acres of agricultural land has been affected and the worst-hit is paddy, with over 3.71 lakh acres completely submerged.

The floods, the worst since 1988, have claimed 52 precious human lives and directly affected nearly 4 lakh people across more than 2000 villages, the scale of destruction demands monumental efforts to rebuild.

He demanded that the Central Government should immediately reassess the damage with a sense of urgency and responsibility, and announce a comprehensive relief package that truly reflects the magnitude of this disaster and the value of Punjab’s contribution to India.

Highlighting the stark contrast between Punjab’s historic contributions and the Centre’s neglect in this hour of need, Mr. Aman Arora said, “from the freedom struggle to feeding the nation, Punjab has always been the nation’s sword and shield. The state’s farmers have ensured India’s food security for decades, and our youth have valiantly guarded its borders. Yet, when our own land is submerged and our people are suffering, the Government of India’s response is just dismissive.”

Chandigarh, Haryana, Punjab

SVKM’s NMIMS Chandigarh Hosts Grand Convocation Ceremony

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Chandigarh

SVKM’s NMIMS Chandigarh held its Convocation Ceremony on August 28, 2025, in a dignified and celebratory event graced by the presence of the Governor of Punjab and Administrator of Chandigarh Gulab Chand Kataria.

The Governor was welcomed with a traditional ceremonial procession led by a band and escorted by eminent dignitaries, including Jagdish B. Parikh, Nominee of the Chancellor & Joint Treasurer, SVKM; Dr. Ramesh Bhatt, Vice Chancellor, SVKM’s NMIMS; Dr. Meena Chintamaneni, Pro-Vice Chancellor; Dr. Meenu Mehta, Dean, School of Commerce; and Dr. Jyotsna Singh, Campus Director, SVKM’s NMIMS Chandigarh. The academic procession was led ceremonially by Dr. Tanmoy Chakraborty, Registrar, carrying the “Raj Dand”, a symbol of academic authority and tradition.

The event commenced with the National Anthem, followed by the lighting of the ceremonial lamp and a soulful rendition of the Saraswati Vandana. Jagdish B. Parikh formally declared the convocation ceremony open, setting the tone for a day of reflection, celebration, and inspiration.

Addressing the gathering, Dr. Ramesh Bhatt, Vice Chancellor, expressed heartfelt gratitude to the Governor for his esteemed presence. He acknowledged the contributions of the SVKM’s NMIMS leadership, faculty, staff, and families, and commended the graduating students for their perseverance and achievements.

Dr. Bhatt highlighted SVKM’s NMIMS’s recent accolades, including the prestigious NAAC A++ accreditation and its ranking among the Top 50 universities in India. He credited this success to the visionary leadership of Amrishbhai Patel, Chancellor of NMIMS, and reaffirmed the university’s dedication to excellence, innovation, and holistic education.

Welcoming the guests, Dr. Jyotsna Singh, Director, SVKM’s NMIMS Chandigarh, recognized the presence of Gulab Chand Kataria, Governor of Punjab and Administrator of Chandigarh, Jagdish B. Parikh, Nominee of the Chancellor & Joint Treasurer, SVKM, Dr. Ramesh Bhatt, Vice Chancellor, Dr. Meena Chintamaneni, Pro-Vice Chancellor, Dr. Tanmoy Chakraborty, Registrar and Dr. Meenu Mehta, Dean, School of Commerce

She presented an academic overview, highlighting the campus’s achievements in research, student development, and institutional growth. She emphasized NMIMS Chandigarh’s commitment to holistic education, underscoring the importance of platforms that foster innovation, leadership, and practical learning. Over the academic year, the campus hosted several impactful events and competitions such as Manfiest, Management Conclave, Hackathon, Faculty Development Programmes (FDPs), Anviksha, and the prestigious National Moot Court Competition. Commending the dedicated efforts of the faculty, staff, and students, she concluded her address by inspiring the graduating class with the message:

“Courage to Try and Humility to Learn.”

Degree Conferment & Awards

The Governor formally conferred degrees upon the graduating students, celebrating their hard-earned accomplishments. Special honors were awarded to students on the Dean’s

List for academic excellence:

Outstanding Academic Achievers:

•          Sahnvi Gupta – B.Com (Hons.)

•          Suhani – B.Com (Hons.)

Faculty Awards for Excellence:

•          Dr. Vanita Sharma – School of Commerce

•          Dr. Aditya Bakshi – School of Technology Management & Engineering

•          Dr. Mohit Pahwa – School of Law

Staff Recognition:

•          Mr. Sachin Dhiman – Best Employee (Maintenance Officer)

In his keynote address, Gulab Chand Kataria congratulated the graduating students and lauded the academic community of SVKM’s NMIMS. He praised the university’s progressive vision and institutional journey under SVKM’s NMIMS leadership.

Acknowledging the significance of women leadership in education, he noted that 60–70% of gold medalists in Indian universities are women, applauding SVKM’s NMIMS for contributing to this positive trend. He emphasized the pivotal role of faculty in shaping academic institutions and expressed admiration for SVKM NMIMS’s growth and recent NAAC A++ recognition.

The convocation concluded with the National Anthem, drawing to a close a memorable celebration of academic excellence, commitment, and inspiration for the future leaders of tomorrow.

Chandigarh, Haryana

‘YUDH NASHIAN VIRUDH’: ON DAY 183, PUNJAB POLICE CONDUCTS RAIDS AT 324 SITES; 68 DRUG SMUGGLERS HELD

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CHANDIGARH, August 31:

          Continuing the war against drugs “Yudh Nashian Virudh” waged by Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann to eradicate drug menace from state consecutively for the 183rd day, Punjab Police conducted raids at 324 locations on Sunday leading to the arrest of 68 drug smugglers after registration of 46 first information reports (FIRs) across the state. With this, the number of total drug smugglers arrested has reached to 27,787 in 183 days.

          The raids have resulted in recovery of 3.9 heroin, 2.5 kg opium, 962 intoxicant tablets/capsules and Rs 2 lakh drug money from the possession of arrested drug smugglers.

          The operation was conducted on the directions of Director General of Police (DGP) Punjab Gaurav Yadav simultaneously in all 28 Police districts of the state.

          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.

          Divulging details, Special DGP Law and Order Arpit Shukla informed that over 100 Police teams, comprising over 900 police personnel, under the supervision of 70 gazetted officers have conducted raids across the state. Police teams have also checked as many as 356 suspicious persons during the day-long operation, he added.

          The Special DGP said that with 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 28 persons to undergo de-addiction and rehabilitation treatment today.

Haryana

HEALTH MINISTER DR. BALBIR SINGH VISITS FLOOD-AFFECTED AREAS OF GURDASPUR, PERSONALLY PLEDGES FINANCIAL AID

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CHANDIGARH/GURDASPUR, August 31:

Punjab Health and Family Welfare Minister Dr. Balbir Singh, along with  MLA Gurdeep Singh Randhawa, today visited the flood-affected areas of Gurdaspur district. The Minister visited relief camps set up by the district administration in villages Narhawali, Kalanor, Machrala, Pakhoke, and Dera Baba Nanak to review the health services being provided  to people by the Health Department.

During the visit, Dr. Balbir Singh distributed relief materials to individuals at the camps and assured them that the Punjab Government stands firmly with them during this difficult time. He stated that the Health Department will leave no stone unturned in providing health services to people in the flood-affected areas.

Interacting with media persons, the Health Minister said he is touring the flood-affected areas of the state and that people have suffered significant losses due to the floods. He emphasized that under the leadership of Chief Minister S. Bhagwant Singh Mann, the entire Punjab Government is working relentlessly to help the victims in every way possible. He noted that the state government first safely evacuated people from the affected areas and that relief operations are ongoing, with essential supplies being continuously delivered to those in need. Arrangements for fodder for livestock are also being made, with significant support from social service organizations.

Dr. Balbir Singh stated that Health Department teams are working continuously in the flood-affected areas to ensure people face no health problems. He informed that special medical camps are being organized and that necessary steps have been taken to prevent the spread of diseases like Dengue, Malaria, and Diarrhoea from the floodwaters. The Minister informed that he has also requested 100 ambulances with paramedical staff from the Indian Medical Association, which will arrive soon.

Acknowledging the extensive damage to crops and houses, Dr. Balbir Singh announced that while the Punjab Government is helping the affected families in every possible way, he will personally provide financial assistance of ₹1 lakh each to one flood-affected farmer family and one labourer family. Additionally, in line with the Punjab Government’s decision, he will donate one month’s salary to aid the flood-affected people. He also appealed to NRIs and social service institutions to come forward and help the victims.

During the tour, the Health Minister also visited the Community Health Centre in Kalanaur.

Civil Surgeon Gurdaspur, Dr. Jaswinder Singh, informed the Minister that besides organizing medical camps, Health Department teams are conducting water sampling, health awareness drives, and rescuing patients in the affected villages. All necessary health services are being provided, and medicines are being given free of cost to patients.

He detailed that 3 Rapid Response Teams have been formed at the district level and 19 at the block level. For public convenience, 38 mobile medical teams are providing services in the flood-affected areas. The health department has 6 of its own ambulances and 18 from 108 service operational for the public. Teams have been provided with on-the-spot water testing kits to check the quality of drinking water immediately, and chlorination of water is being carried out by the Health Department.

The Health Minister was accompanied by his wife Mrs. Rupinderjit Saini, newly appointed Chairman of the District Planning Committee and AAP District President Joban Randhawa, Chairman Balwinder Singh Haruwal, SDM Kalanaur Jyotsana Singh, SDM Dera Baba Nanak Dr. Aditya Sharma, SDM Fatehgarh Churian Gurmandar Singh, Tehsildar Rajinder Singh, District Media Incharge Mukhdev Singh Alowal, and other officers of the Health Department.

Haryana

AMAN ARORA SEEKS RELEASE OF ₹60K CRORE STALLED FUNDS, DEMANDS 3-FOLD HIKE IN FLOOD COMPENSATION

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CHANDIGARH/AMRITSAR, August 31:

After visiting the flood-hit areas in Amritsar district, Punjab Cabinet Minister and Aam Aadmi Party State President Mr. Aman Arora today urged the Central Government to immediately release Rs 60,000 crore stalled funds and also demanded to triple the compensation amount for flood victims in the state.

He, along with PWD Minister S. Harbhajan Singh ETO and MLA S. Kuldeep Singh Dhaliwal, was addressing a press conference at Circuit House in Amritsar, on Sunday, following his visit to flood-affected areas in Ajnala and Ramdas.

He assessed the damage caused by the floods and oversaw relief operations carried by district administration. He emphasised the need for immediate action to support the people affected by the floods. He also highlighted the state government’s efforts to rescue people, their animals, and belongings, and provide essential supplies like food and medicine. He also attributed the flooding to cloudbursts in hilly areas and stated that a preliminary assessment is underway.

Highlighting the dire situation, Mr. Aman Arora stated that approximately 3 lakh acres of farmland, mainly paddy fields, are still submerged under floodwater, resulting in massive crop losses just weeks before harvest. Furthermore, widespread loss of livestock is severely affecting rural households that rely heavily on dairy and animal husbandry for their livelihood.

Launching a scathing attack on the BJP-led Central Government, Mr Aman Arora accused the union government of step-motherly treatment towards Punjab. He emphasised that the Centre must take responsibility for Punjab’s plight and provide immediate assistance. He highlighted that the Centre Government has scrapped Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY) projects worth Rs. 828 crore in Punjab, which would adversely impacted state’s rural connectivity in long-run.

He noted that the Chief Minister S. Bhagwant Singh Mann has already written to Prime Minister Sh. Narendra Modi, urging him to intervene and release funds to support the flood-affected families.

Mr. Aman Arora shared that the current compensation for flood victims is inadequate, citing Rs 6,800 per acre for crop damage, paying such a petty amount would be a cruel joke with the “Annadata”, Rs 1.20 lakh for damaged houses and Rs 4 lakh in case of death. He demanded that at-least Rs 50,000 per acre should be paid to the farmers and the compensation for other losses should also be hiked to ensure sufficient relief to affected families.

Mr. Aman Arora pointed out that Punjab has suffered significant revenue losses of approximately Rs 50,000 crore over the past years due to implementation of the GST regime and Rs. 8,000 crore has been withheld in Rural Development Fund (RDF) and Market Development Fund (MDF). Despite these facts, the Central Government has not provided any compensation or special package for the state, he added.

Mr. Aman Arora urged the BJP leadership in Punjab to prioritise securing a special package for the state instead of indulging in photo ops in flood-affected areas. “It’s time for the Central Government to take concrete steps to support Punjab in this hour of need,” he stressed.

Chandigarh, Haryana

PSEB EMPLOYEES’ ORGANIZATIONS CALL OFF STRIKE FOLLOWING MEETING WITH POWER MINISTER

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Chandigarh/Patiala, August 14:

Following discussions with Punjab Power Minister S. Harbhajan Singh ETO in Patiala today, the PSEB Employees Joint Forum and Bijli Mulazam Ekta Manch Punjab have announced withdrawal of their ongoing strike action.

The breakthrough came after extensive meetings, held on August 10 and 14, 2025, chaired by Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema and Power Minister Harbhajan Singh ETO, alongside PSPCL administration officials at Punjab Bhawan and PSPCL Guest House, Chandigarh, culminated in the acceptance of key employee demands, with formal minutes documenting the agreements reached.

Addressing the media, Power Minister S. Harbhajan Singh ETO expressed satisfaction with the resolution, stating that comprehensive discussions between union representatives and the government had yielded mutually acceptable solutions. He assured that PSPCL’s Board of Directors would expedite formal approval of the agreed provisions, while matters requiring Punjab Cabinet sanction would be fast-tracked through appropriate channels.

The Power Minister thanked organizational leaders and members for demonstrating trust in government assurances and resuming duties promptly. He stressed the critical importance of the period leading up to September 30, highlighting the essential need for uninterrupted power supply during the peak paddy cultivation season and heightened domestic consumption.

Reinforcing Chief Minister S. Bhagwant Singh Mann’s commitment to youth employment, the Cabinet Minister highlighted the government’s remarkable achievement of creating over 55,000 employment opportunities across the past three and a half years. Addressing recruitment concerns within PSPCL and PSTCL, he disclosed that more than 7,000 appointments have already been completed, with an additional 11,000 positions scheduled for completion by year-end.

Similarly, it has been decided to increase the ex-gratia amount by ₹5 lakh, raising it to ₹35 lakh. A committee has also been constituted to address the demands of outsourced and contractual employees and its recommendations will be implemented as soon as they are submitted.

The Power Minister assured that the people of Punjab would not face any inconvenience and the Mann Government is committed to accepting every legitimate demand of government employees.

Chandigarh, Haryana

Participants in Tiranga Yatra in Ambala Cantonment danced, sang, and swayed to patriotic tunes: Anil Vij

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Chandigarh, August 13 – Haryana’s Energy, Transport & Labour Minister, Sh. Anil Vij said that when the spirit of patriotism fully takes root and roars within the people, even the greatest enemies of the nation flee in fear. He said that as the nation prepares to celebrate Independence Day, his party has decided to organize Tiranga Yatra in every city and state to drape the country in the colours of the national flag. In this series of programs, a large number of people participated in the Tiranga Yatra held today in Ambala Cantonment, where they danced, sang, and swayed to patriotic tunes.

While speaking to Media Persons after the massive Tiranga Yatra organised in Ambala Cantonment on the occasion of Independence Day, Sh. Vij said that under his leadership, the Bharatiya Janata Party took out the Yatra with great enthusiasm. Sh. Vij was seen immersed in patriotic fervour, holding the Tricolour in his hand, dancing to patriotic songs, and infusing the atmosphere with energy by waving the flag and raising slogans of ‘Bharat Mata ki Jai’ and ‘Vande Mataram’.

*The entire city was awash in the colours of the Tricolour, with tremendous enthusiasm among the people for the Yatra*

The Tiranga Yatra began from Aggarwal Dharamshala in Ambala Cantonment and saw participation from thousands of workers as well as citizens. The city was draped in the colours of the national flag, and excitement among the people was palpable. Throughout the route, the Yatra was greeted with grand welcomes. The procession, starting from Aggarwal Dharamshala, passed through Railway Road, Sadar Bazar, Sabzi Mandi, Pul Chameli, Kesra Bazar, Kabadi Bazar, and Government College before returning to its starting point.

*Ambala Cantonment overflowed with patriotic spirit during the Tiranga Yatra*

Everywhere the Yatra passed, people danced and swayed to patriotic songs. Flowers were showered on the march at various points along the route. Residents and shopkeepers welcomed the procession by throwing flowers from the rooftops of their homes and shops. During the program, Sh. Vij greeted the participants and extended Independence Day wishes to all.

Prominent attendees included State Organization General Secretary Phanidranath Sharma, Municipal Council Chairperson Swarn Kaur, Vice-Chairman Lalata Prasad, BJP leaders Jasbir Singh Jassi, Dimple Gupta, Aarti Sehgal, Surender Bindra, Ajay Baveja, Ravi Buddhiraja, Harsh Bindra, Pravesh Sharma, Vikas Bahgal, Sanjeev Soni, B.S. Bindra, Ashish Aggarwal, Madan Lal Sharma, Ram Babu Yadav, Bharat Kochhar, Fakir Chand Saini, Billu Rana, Balkesh Vats, Subhash Sharma, Ramesh Saini, Randhir Singh, Sudarshan Singh Sehgal, Shyam Sunder Arora, Balit Nagpal among others.

Chandigarh, Haryana

Spreading confusion on EVM by Congress is wrong – CM Sh Nayab Singh Saini

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Chandigarh, August 13

Haryana Chief Minister Sh Nayab Singh Saini said that Congress won 10 seats in the state by margins ranging from 100 to 1,000 votes. If there were any faults in the EVMs, Congress would not have won these seats. He emphasized that the public should not be misled on this issue. The Chief Minister added that Congress members should explain this to their leader Sh Rahul Gandhi and get him treated, as “there is no cure for lies.”

The Chief Minister was interacting with the media persons after the Tiranga Yatra in Kurukshetra on Wednesday. The Development and Panchayats Minister Sh Krishan Lal Panwar, Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare Minister Sh Shyam Singh Rana, and Chairman Sh Dharam Veer Mirzapur were also present on the occasion.

Sh Nayab Singh Saini said that whenever election results are announced whether in the state or across the country, Congress routinely blames the EVMs. He added that during this election, Congress leaders repeatedly claimed that if Narendra Modi became Prime Minister for a third term, the Constitution would be in danger. Rahul Gandhi and other leaders of the INDIA alliance campaigned using the Constitution as a symbol, but the people of the country rejected their false narratives. Instead, they elected Sh Narendra Modi as Prime Minister for the third consecutive term. In Haryana too, the BJP formed the government for the third time in a row.

He said that Congress has no real issues left and is now frustrated. The party ruled the country for 55 years, but today, seeing the rapid development under BJP rule, Congress leaders have lost their mental balance. Prime Minister Sh Narendra Modi has ended Congress’s corrupt practices and worked for the welfare of the poor. He provided Ayushman cards, built toilets in every home, ensured ration reaches the needy, and gave gas cylinders to poor families under the Ujjwala Yojana. Congress is unhappy with the BJP government’s efforts to uplift the poor. Instead of supporting progress, they continue to mislead people with false statements. But now, the people of both the country and the state have understood Congress’s lies.

The Chief Minister said that the country was divided due to the ambitions of those driven by political greed. The people of India endured the pain of Partition just a day before independence. During that time, countless families were torn apart, and many daughters and children lost their lives. For the first time since independence, Prime Minister Sh Narendra Modi truly acknowledged the suffering of those affected by Partition. He stated that we must remember the lakhs of people who endured this tragedy. As a result, he took the initiative to observe August 14 as Vibhajan Vibhishika Diwas.

Dehradun

Holistic Education and Industry Linkages: Key to Viksit Bharat @ 2047: Prof Devinder Singh

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Srinagar Garhwal: At the inaugural session of a faculty development program, Prof. Devinder Singh, Vice-Chancellor of Dr. B.R.A. National Law University, Sonipat, called for a fundamental shift in the education system to achieve the vision of a “Viksit Bharat.” He emphasized the urgent need for a holistic and student-centric education system that moves beyond traditional methods.
In his address, Prof. Singh advocated for a clear policy to swiftly integrate underutilized qualified human resources into the formal education system at the earliest.

He stressed that this would be crucial for contributions to building a “Vishwa Guru Viksit Bharat.” Furthermore, he highlighted the importance of strengthening academia-industry linkages to ensure that educational curricula are aligned with the needs of the industry, thereby better preparing graduates for the workforce. He was stating this at the inaugural session of short-term Faculty Development Program (FDP) on the “Role of Higher Education in Viksit Bharat” today organized by Malaviya Mission Teacher Training Centre (MMTTC) of H.N.B. Garhwal University, Srinagar Garhwal, Uttarakhand. In this program more than 100 higher education faculty participants from 17 different states will be trained for a week.
In his message, the Hon’ble Vice-Chancellor of H.N.B. Garhwal University, Prof Prakash Singh, lauded the MMTTC team for its continuous efforts in organizing such programs. Dr. Rahul Kunwar Singh, the Officiating Director of the MMTTC, welcomed the attendees and highlighted the evolving role of higher education. He noted that universities and colleges are now responsible for developing “responsible, ethical, and globally competent individuals who will lead Bharat towards inclusive and sustainable growth,” going beyond merely producing employable graduates.
The session’s proceedings included an overview of the program by Dr. Hiranmoy Roy, the Course Coordinator. The coordination of the session was handled by Dr. Kavita Bhatt, the Program Executive, while Dr. Amar Jeet Singh, an Assistant Director, introduced the guests. The inaugural session concluded with a vote of thanks proposed by Dr. Somesh Thapliyal, also an Assistant Director of the Centre.

Chandigarh, Punjab

CM AND ARVIND KEJRIWAL FLAG OFF BAAJ AKH- ANTI DRONE SYSTEM TO CHECK SMUGGLING DRUGS AND WEAPONS FROM ACROSS THE BORDER

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Tarn Taran, August 9:

In a path breaking initiative to check supply of drugs from across the border, the Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann and National Convener of AAP Arvind Kejriwal on Saturday flagged off Baaj Akh- Anti Drone System (ADS) after which Punjab became the first state in the country to deploy this system at the international border.

Interacting with the media, the National Convener of AAP said that another glorious chapter has been added in the crusade against the drugs. He said that previous regimes hobnobbed with the drug smugglers due to which this curse flexed its muscles in the state. However, Arvind Kejriwal said that now a massive crackdown has been launched against drugs and big fishes involved in this trade have been put behind the bars.

The National Convener of AAP said that drugs have been supplied to Punjab from across the border and to check them this anti-drone system has been launched. He said that three ADS have been launched and six others will be launched very soon to make Punjab free from this scourge. Arvind Kejriwal said that the state government has strictly implemented a zero-tolerance policy against drug traffickers.

The National Convener of AAP said that properties acquired by drug smugglers through the illegal drug trade are being demolished. He further said that the most notorious and feared drug lord has been put behind the bars by an honest government in the state led by Bhagwant Singh Mann. Arvind Kejriwal said that these smugglers, who celebrate with luxuries at home while poisoning society, are the real enemies of our people and the state government will not spare them at any cost.

Meanwhile, the Chief Minister said that under the “War Against Drugs” (Yudh Nasheyan Virud) campaign, Punjab has today launched a battle to stop drug smuggling from across the border. He said that Punjab shares a 553-kilometer border with Pakistan, which is considered one of the most sensitive zones for the smuggling of narcotics and weapons. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that to strengthen border security and tackle the challenges posed by drone-based smuggling, nine anti-drone units are being set up along the international border.

The Chief Minister said that an amount of ₹51.4 crore is being spent on these units. He said that although our country’s armed forces and BSF have already been using such systems, Punjab is the first state in the country to deploy anti-drone systems at the international border. He said that the anti-drone system will give a strong response to drug smugglers from across the border adding that anti-national elements always use technology for anti-social activities. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that the enemies of the country have turned drones into weapons to destroy Punjab’s youth, and drones are being used for drug smuggling from across the border.

Extending congratulations to the security forces, the Chief Minister lauded them for working tirelessly to stop this cross-border drug trafficking. He said that in 2024, a total of 283 drones loaded with heroin, weapons, and ammunition were seized adding that in 2025, so far, 137 drones have already been recovered. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that the anti-drone system will be deployed along the border from Pathankot to Fazilka as a Second Line of Defense.

The Chief Minister said that with this, any drone entering the state through the border can be immediately neutralized. He said that the Second Line of Defense refers to the deployment of Punjab Police in the border districts, who work behind the BSF stationed at the international border. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that the anti-drone systems will assist the security forces in combating the smuggling of drugs and weapons.

The Chief Minister said that these systems will be deployed at those specific border points where high drone activity has been observed. He said that previously, Punjab Police did not have any such system to neutralize drones, but now, Punjab Police has become capable. Bhagwant Singh Mann  said that the anti-drone system is equipped to accurately detect the drone’s position and its ground control stations.

The Chief Minister said that these systems come with automated alert technology, which immediately notifies authorities upon detecting drone movement, thus eliminating the need for manual monitoring. He said that to ensure the successful implementation of this advanced system, coordination will be maintained with BSF, the Indian Air Force, the Indian Army, and other agencies. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that anti-drug curriculum has been already introduced in Schools under “War Against Drugs” with an aim to make 8 lakh students aware against the menace of drugs.

The Chief Minister said that Punjab’s war against drugs has now reached a crucial stage and as part of the third phase of the state government’s campaign “Yudh Nashean De Virudh” (War Against Drugs), a special syllabus has been introduced in all government schools for students from classes 9 to 12. He said that through this syllabus, 8 lakh students from 9-12 classes will be made aware of the dangers of drug abuse and encouraged to stay away from narcotic substances. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that this anti-drug program will involve 3,658 schools and renowned scientists will also take part in raising awareness among students.

The Chief Minister said that that the drug menace was deliberately spread in the state after 2009 through a conspiracy backed by political leaders. However, he said that his government has acted tough against this menace through meticulous planning, putting even high-profile offenders behind bars. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that those who were hand in glove with the drug smugglers and who patronized them during their heydays of power are today behind the bars.

On the occasion Chief Secretary KAP Sinha, DGP Gaurav Yadav and others were also present.