Category Archives: News

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

Punjab Cabinet Ministers Meet Janglat Workers Union to Address Their Issues

Chandigarh, January 10

Punjab Finance Minister Advocate Harpal Singh Cheema and Forest and Wildlife Preservation Minister Lal Chand Kataruchak held a detailed meeting today with the Janglat Workers Union. The meeting, chaired by Finance Minister Cheema, who is also the Chairman of the Cabinet Sub-Committee formed to address employee issues, focused on the pressing demands and challenges faced by the Janglat Workers and finding tangible solutions for the same.

During the discussions, Finance Minister Cheema directed the Forest Department to convene a subsequent meeting with the union to address their services related issues. He emphasized the need for a positive approach in resolving these issues and instructed that the case concerning financial obligations be forwarded to the Finance Department for further action. Finance Minister Cheema assured the union representatives that their legitimate demands would be addressed promptly, highlighting the government’s commitment to the welfare of its employees.

Additionally, Finance Minister Cheema directed the Forest Department to organize training programs for class four employees to enhance their skills and improve their work efficiency. This initiative is aimed at empowering the employees with better skill sets, thereby contributing to their professional development and overall job satisfaction.

Forest Minister Lal Chand Kataruchak echoed these sentiments, reiterating the government’s dedication to resolving the issues faced by the Janglat Workers Union. He assured the union that their concerns are being taken seriously and that the department is committed to finding sustainable solutions.

The Forest Workers Union delegation, comprising Makhan Singh Wahidpuri, Jaswinder Singh Sauja Patiala, Satnam Singh Sangrur, Amandeep Singh Chhat Bir, Ravikant Ropar, Sulakhan Singh Mohali, and Ravi Kumar Ludhiana, expressed gratitude to the Punjab government for the productive meeting. The Union enthusiastically welcomed the Finance Minister’s assurance to address their legitimate demands and the Forest Minister’s commitment to their welfare.

Punjab Tourism and Cultural Affairs Department celebrates “Dhiyan Di Lohri” in Khanna

Chandigarh, Jan 10:

Cabinet Minister Tarunpreet Singh Sond on Friday stated that celebrating ‘Dhiyan Di Lohri’ can significantly improve the sex ratio in the Punjab.

While presiding over the “Dhiyan Di Lohri” event at A.S College (Women), Khanna organized by the Tourism and Cultural Affairs Department, Sond emphasized the importance of such gatherings in supporting girl children to live their lives with dignity and pride. He highlighted that this, in turn, will contribute immensely to the socio-economic development of the state.

Sond described ‘Dhiyan Di Lohri’ as a vital initiative that can transform the destiny of girls in society. He underscored the necessity of holding such sustainable efforts throughout the year to effectively spread this message. He further stated that these functions align with the teachings of the great Sikh Gurus, who advocated for the respect and honour of women, as they give birth to kings and future leaders.

Sond noted that girls today are excelling in several fields including academics, medical, science, sports and etc. He remarked that the country is making progress, with more girls reaching new heights in their careers.

The Minister also mentioned that the Punjab government, led by Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, is implementing numerous initiatives aimed at women’s empowerment. He added that efforts are underway to raise awareness about improving the gender ratio, with many girls currently holding top level government jobs and other prestigious positions.

Present at the event were Secretary Tourism and Cultural Affairs and Information and Public Relations, Malwinder Singh Jaggi, Director Tourism and Cultural Affairs Amrit Singh, senior district officials and other dignitaries.

Ashwani Chawla becomes President of Punjab Vidhan Sabha Press Gallery Committee

Chandigarh, January 10:

In the Annual polls of the Punjab Vidhan Sabha Press Gallery Committee 2025, journalist Ashwani Chawla (Sach Kahoon) today got elected as the President. During the course of polls, the entire journalist fraternity expressed unanimity on the name of Ashwani Chawla and decided to elect him as the President unopposed.

In the aftermath, the names of Mr. Amit Pandey and Mr. Deepak Sharma were proposed for election to the posts of Vice President and Secretary of the Press Gallery Committee, respectively. They too were declared elected unopposed as no other candidate came forward to contest against them. Hence, they were elected with unanimity.

The Vidhan Sabha Press Gallery Committee advises the Speaker of the State’s Vidhan Sabha to resolve any issues being faced by the journalists and facilitate them. On the advice rendered by the committee, the Speaker takes the decisions for the welfare of the journalist fraternity.

Vijay Singh Dahiya appointed In-Charge of Ambala district

Chandigarh, January 9 – The Haryana Government has deputed Sh. Vijay Singh Dahiya, Commissioner & Secretary of the Printing & Stationery Department and Animal Husbandry Department, as the In-Charge of Ambala district, in addition to his current duties. An order to this effect was issued by the Haryana Chief Secretary.

Sh. Vijay Singh Dahiya will review projects worth Rs. 25 crore and above, overall crime and heinous crime incidents, and vigilance matters concerning clearances under Sections 17A and 19 of the Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988. Additionally, he will assess the efficacy and functioning of the service delivery mechanism, as well as the parameters of functioning in the Health, Education, and Social sectors.

Further, he will address the challenges faced by the Deputy Excise and Taxation Commissioner (DETC) regarding taxes, GST, etc. In addition, he will interact with MLAs and other public representatives in the presence of Deputy Commissioners (DCs) and Superintendents of Police (SPs). He may also visit one important significant site related to the Health and Education Departments.

Haryana RTS Commission awards Rs 3,000 compensation to consumer over delay in notified service

Chandigarh, January 9 – The Haryana Right to Service (RTS) Commission has directed the Uttar Haryana Bijli Vitran Nigam (UHBVN), Panchkula to grant a compensation of Rs 3,000 over a delay in providing a notified service to a consumer.

While giving this information here today, a spokesperson of the Commission said Sh. Rajesh Yadav, a resident of Jhajjar district, had approached the Commission regarding replacement of his old meter. After lodging a complaint on July 18, 2024, he received a call from the Nigam that his new meter had arrived and would be replaced within 2-3 days. However, no action was taken in this regard. Instead, the complainant alleged that he received a call from the concerned JE stating that no meter was available in the store and that his meter could not be replaced. From the complainant’s account, it appeared that the JE was seeking illegal gratification, causing delays in the installation of the new meter. The complainant further alleged that the concerned SDO fabricated a document by sending a satisfaction letter purportedly signed by one Sh. Jai Parkash Yadav, who, according to the complainant, was neither a tenant nor an employee at the premises.

The Commission carefully considered all the facts and circumstances of the case. It was only after an appeal was filed with the Commission that the meter was finally replaced on November 26, 2024.

It said for a service that is supposed to be delivered within 3 days in urban areas, it took more than 4 months to provide the same, adding that UHBVN is clearly responsible for this delay. It is neither the concern of the complainant/consumer nor the Commission that meters are unavailable. Once a service has been notified, the UHBVN must take all possible steps to ensure adequate supply of meters in its stores. It has been generally observed that the Material Management (M&M) wings of the power utilities are not ensuring the availability of necessary material in their stores, which causes delays in the delivery of notified service, the Commission observed.

Hence, the Commission, exercising its powers under Section 17(1)(h) of the Haryana Right to Service Act, 2014 (hereinafter referred to as the ‘Act’), awarded a compensation of Rs. 3,000 to the consumer, which should be paid by the UHBVN from its funds. The UHBVN is free to recover this amount from the defaulting officials who failed to ensure the availability of LT/CT meters in their stores. This amount should either be adjusted in the consumer’s account by UHBVN or transferred to the consumer’s bank account. The concerned XEN has been directed to send a compliance report of these orders to the Commission by January 25, 2025.

At the same time, a serious issue in this case is the creation of a fake satisfaction letter on behalf of the complainant. The Commission directed the XEN, Bahadurgarh, to investigate the same and submit a report in this matter by January 24, 2025. The XEN has also been directed to confirm whether any LT/CT meters were available in the stores after July 18, 2024. If they were, the XEN should confirm whether the meters were installed according to priority or they were installed at the whims and fancies of the JE, the Commission ordered.

The MDs of both UHBVN and DHBVN have also been told to review the stock situation of their stores and ensure availability of the same for delivery of notified services.

Haryana retains “Achievers” category in Logistics Ease Across Different States (LEADS) 2024

Chandigarh, Jan 9 – Haryana has secured a prestigious position in the “Achievers” category for Landlocked States in the Logistics Ease Across Different States (LEADS) Survey 2024, conducted by the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Government of India. This marks the third consecutive year of Haryana’s recognition, underscoring its outstanding efforts in enhancing logistics infrastructure and strengthening the logistics ecosystem through the state’s logistics policy.

Principal Secretary of the Industries and Commerce Department, Sh. D. Suresh, presented the prestigious award to Haryana Chief Minister Sh. Nayab Singh Saini. The award, recently conferred upon Haryana by Union Minister of Commerce and Industry Sh. Piyush Goyal in New Delhi, recognizes the state’s significant achievements.

The LEADS survey evaluates States and Union Territories on their Logistics infrastructure, Logistics services, Operating & Regulatory environment and Sustainability & Equitable logistics. Haryana’s inclusion in the “Achievers” category underscores the state’s commitment to fostering a business-friendly environment and establishing itself as a logistics hub in the country.

Haryana has emerged as a leader in the logistics sector, largely due to its world-class logistics infrastructure. The state has made substantial investments in enhancing its road networks, rail connectivity, and inland container depots. Major projects, including the Kundli-Manesar-Palwal (KMP) Expressway and the Integrated Multi-Modal Logistics Hub (IMLH) at Nangal Chaudhary, have significantly boosted connectivity, driving the growth of logistics across the region.

Infrastructure planning has also seen significant advancements through the PM Gati Shakti State Master Plan (SMP) Portal. Haryana has mandated that all infrastructure projects exceeding Rs 100 crore be planned through this portal, ensuring better coordination and timely execution of key initiatives.

Strategically located adjacent to the National Capital Region (NCR), Haryana has leveraged its geographical proximity to become a crucial hub in North India’s logistics and warehousing sector. This location advantage has attracted substantial investments and positioned the state as a major player in the logistics space.

The state has also embraced sustainability in its logistics sector. Haryana has introduced green logistics initiatives, such as the promotion of electric vehicles (EVs) for freight transport. Additionally, it has implemented progressive policies, including the Electric Vehicle Policy 2022 and the Vehicle Scrappage & Recycling Facility Incentive Policy 2024, to ensure a cleaner and more sustainable logistics ecosystem.

To further strengthen its logistics sector, Haryana has focused on building a skilled workforce. The state has formed partnerships with private sector entities and educational institutions to enhance logistics training and livelihood opportunities. In line with its commitment to gender inclusivity, Haryana has actively promoted women’s participation in the logistics sector, ensuring equal employment opportunities for all.

Haryana is committed to reduce the logistics cost by adopting a logistics cost framework to maximize efficiency and propel the state’s economic growth.

Forest Department to Fast-Track Jungle Safari Project: Rao Narbir Singh

Chandigarh, January 9 – Haryana Environment, Forest, and Wildlife Minister, Sh. Rao Narbir Singh today directed the concerned officers to accelerate the development of the Jungle Safari project, aimed at boosting eco-tourism in the Aravalli mountain range. The Minister further directed them to personally assess the progress on-site to ensure the project reaches completion at the earliest.

The Chief Minister, Shri Nayab Singh Saini, has officially transferred the responsibility for this initiative from the Tourism Department to the Forest and Wildlife Department. As a result, the department will now oversee key decisions, such as determining the appropriate placement of various animals within the safari. A presentation has been made by the agency tasked with preparing the project’s detailed report.

Earlier, Minister Sh. Rao Narbir Singh had also inspected the Green Wall project in Arbanian and initiated steps toward implementing similar efforts in the Aravallis to preserve the region’s biodiversity.

The meeting was attended by Additional Chief Secretary, Sh. Anand Mohan Sharan, Principal Chief Conservator, Forests Sh. Jagdish Chandra, and other senior officials.

Haryana Police Leads the Nation in Cyber Security: Remarkable Achievements in  Cybercrime Control

Chandigarh, January 9. Haryana Police ranked first in the country in preventing cyber fraud in the year 2024. Haryana Police saved approximately ₹268.40 crore from cybercriminals, compared to ₹76.85 crore in 2023. Thus, three times more money was saved from cybercriminals in 2024 compared to 2023 and five times more than in 2022. For this achievement, Director General of Police Shatrujeet Kapur has congratulated the entire Cyber Haryana team.

Strict Action and Targeted Arrests: Director General of Police informed that the Haryana Police is also taking strict action against cybercriminals and sending them behind bars. In 2022, 2165 cases were registered against cybercriminals, while in 2023, 2747 cases and in 2024, 5511 cases were registered. Similarly, in 2022, the Haryana Police arrested 1078, in 2023 ,1909 were arrested , and in 2024, 5156 cyber criminals were arrested. Out of the total criminals arrested in 2024, 70% (3555 criminals) are from other states. On an average, 14 cyber criminals were arrested daily by the Haryana Police in 2024.

Proactive Measures and a Planned System: Effective efforts are being made by the Haryana Police to return the amount blocked from the cybercriminals to the victim’s account. As a result of the Haryana Police’s significant efforts, 33 crore was refunded to cyber fraud victims in 2023, which was increased to ₹95 crore 45 lakh 14359 (almost three times) by November 2024. All 29 cyber police stations in the state have been instructed to refund get the money back to the victims through Lok Adalat, so that people do not have to go to courts to get the money. The Hon’ble Punjab and Haryana High Court on the request of Haryana Police has issued orders to all District and Session courts to abolish the requirement of filing an FIR to refund, so that the fraudulent amount can be refunded without any delay.

The work done by the Haryana Police to control cybercrime is being appreciated across the country. Senior cyber police officers from the central government and various states are visiting to see the cyber security system of the Haryana Police. In 2024, the team of the Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Center (I4C) of the Government of India, along with Google and other fintech companies, visited the Haryana Police’s Cyber Helpline-1930 and appreciated its functioning. Along with this, the cyber teams of Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, and Delhi also studied the work of cyber security of the Haryana Police and expressed their interest to implement the best practices here in their respective states.

Strategic Partnership and Cooperation, the Key to Success: Mr. Kapur said that in this era of technology, cybercrime is a major challenge for the entire country. To tackle this problem, the Haryana Police has strengthened the cyber security system and also carried out system reforms. A strategy has been developed to prevent cybercrime by carefully studying the methods adopted by cybercriminals. In September 2023, the number of technically skilled police personnel deployed on the cyber helpline 1930 was increased from 12 to 70. In the same vein, meetings were held with representatives of banks and they were motivated to work with the Haryana Police. As a result, today 15 nodal officers of 10 major banks are working together on a platform to prevent cybercrime.

Remarkable Work, Excellent Results: As a result of the work done by the Haryana Police to control cybercrime, the rate of the amount blocked in cyber fraud and the recovery being made by cyber police stations, which was 7% in September 2023, increased to 36% in December 2024, which is the highest in the country. Not only this, if a complainant files a complaint within 6 hours of cyber fraud, 70% of the cheated amount is being blocked, which is the highest in the entire country. Haryana Police was at the 23rd position in the country in terms of the rate of the amount blocked in cyber fraud till September 2023, but now it has reached the first position. For this achievement and the efficient implementation of the Cyber Helpline 1930, the Union Home Minister, Amit Shah, Government of India, Amit Shah, also honored the Haryana Police on September 10, 2024.

Farsighted Leadership and Infrastructure Growth: Along with this, 4 police personnel of the Haryana Police have been deployed in the Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Center (I4C) of the Government of India, where significant steps are being taken to prevent cybercrime in collaboration with 20 major banks and fintech companies across the country. In 2024, 2,83,589 bank accounts and 1,24,565 mobile numbers used in cyber fraud have been closed, which is the highest in the country.

Haryana Police Appeal on Cyber Security: Mr. Kapur appealed to the common people that in this era of technology, when most people are active on online platforms. If anyone calls themselves a CBI, ED or a police officer and talks about digital arrest, then be alert immediately as no agency does digital arrest. Also, people should not fall prey to fake share trading scams circulating on social media platforms. Before investing, be sure to verify the company or website officially. Also, people should not pick up WhatsApp video and audio calls from foreign countries’ numbers, especially Cambodia, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, etc. People should be wary of fake advertisements appearing on Telegram and Google. The Haryana Police is continuously running awareness campaigns on print and social media to make the people of the state aware of the methods adopted by cybercriminals. So far, a total of 2 crore 27 lakh people have been made aware of cyber security measures. The only way to prevent cybercrime is caution and vigilance, so people should be careful and contact the helpline number 1930 immediately if they suspect cybercrime.

Government working to ensure good income for farmers with small landholdings: Nayab Singh Saini

Chandigarh, January 9 – Haryana Chief Minister Sh Nayab Singh Saini said that the state’s double-engine government is consistently working towards the welfare of farmers. Our goal is to enhance farmers’ income and make them economically prosperous. He said that 70 percent of the state’s farmers own less land, necessitating a special strategy for their upliftment. The Chief Minister further said that the upcoming budget must include provisions aimed at increasing farmers’ profits to empower them economically.

The Chief Minister was addressing a pre-budget consultation meeting at Chaudhary Charan Singh Haryana Agricultural University in Hisar today, where he took suggestions from progressive farmers regarding their upliftment. Agriculture and Farmers Welfare Minister Sh. Shyam Singh Rana, Public Health Engineering Minister Sh. Ranbir Gangwa, MLA Sh Vinod Bhyana,and Sh. Randhir Panihar were also present.

During the discussion, the Chief Minister engaged in one-on-one interactions with the farmers. In the first session, over 52 suggestions were shared by the farmers. Along with progressive farmers, agricultural experts also participated in the session. In the second session, discussions were held with farmers associated with Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs), and members of the FPO federation also contributed their suggestions.

 *Government working to ensure good income for farmers with small landholdings*

The Chief Minister said that the suggestions shared during today’s discussions will be incorporated into the upcoming budget. He said that the state government is particularly focused on the welfare of farmers, with special attention being given to increasing their income and strengthening their position. He said that agriculture contributes 18 percent to Haryana’s GDP and expressed the government’s intention to implement measures that would ensure small landholding farmers can earn a good income. For this, initiatives like e-mandi and other options are being developed.

The Chief Minister further remarked that, in the past, transporting produce to the market was a significant challenge. However, under the leadership of Prime Minister Sh Narendra Modi, the country’s road and rail connectivity network has been significantly strengthened, making it easier to transport crops across regions. He highlighted the progress made by the country over the last 10 years, particularly under the Prime Minister’s leadership. Today, the government is introducing new initiatives to benefit farmers, including the promotion of organic farming. The Chief Minister also praised the efforts of Gujarat Governor Acharya Devvrat in advancing organic farming practices.

*Farmers should adopt crop diversification*

The Chief Minister urged farmers to adopt crop diversification, encouraging them to move away from traditional farming practices. He said that diversification could significantly increase farmers’ income. He also encouraged farmers to focus on the production of coarse grains, adding that the Prime Minister Sh Narendra Modi has made efforts to bring coarse grains to the global stage.

During his address, the Chief Minister highlighted the success of strawberry farming in village Syadhwa, Hisar, praising the hard work of local farmers in cultivating strawberries. He also mentioned the cultivation of Kinnow in Sirsa. He stressed that farmers must explore innovative approaches beyond traditional farming to improve their income and achieve sustainable growth.

*People can give suggestions online regarding Budget 2025*

The Chief Minister said that the state government has launched a portal for receiving suggestions related to the General Budget of Haryana for the year 2025-26. Through this portal, common citizens, progressive farmers, and representatives associated with Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs) can submit their suggestions. He assured that these suggestions would be taken into account and incorporated into the budget.

Chief Principal Secretary to the Chief Minister, Sh. Rajesh Khullar, Additional Chief Secretary Finance Department, Sh Anurag Rastogi, Additional Chief Secretary Agriculture and Farmers Welfare Department, Sh. Raja Shekhar Vundru, Additional Principal Secretary to Chief Minister, Dr. Saket Kumar, Vice Chancellor of Chaudhary Charan Singh Haryana Agricultural University, Prof. BR Kamboj and other dignitaries were present on this occasion.

Human errors behind 80 per cent of road accidents: Anil Vij

Chandigarh, January 9 – Improving the transport system is our priority and concrete steps are being taken in this direction. This was stated by Haryana Transport, Energy and Labour Minister Sh. Anil Vij while talking to the media at his office in Chandigarh today after his Delhi visit. He shared his views on various topics related to transport reforms and road safety.

Sh. Anil Vij said representatives from various states participated in the meeting held in Delhi under the chairmanship of Union Road, Transport and Highways Minister Sh. Nitin Gadkari. In this meeting, issues of road accidents and transport reform were discussed in detail. He said the main reason behind 80 per cent of road accidents is human error, in which excessive fatigue of drivers is a big problem. He suggested that rest houses should be built on the roadsides, where drivers can rest and get food as well. Work is also being done to provide quality food in public transport in collaboration with Haryana Tourism. The minister said a study is being done to improve catering services on the line of Railways.

Regarding the meeting with All India Road Transporters, he said they have been instructed to stop overloading of vehicles.

On the construction of new roads and highways, Sh. Anil Vij said a wide network of roads has been prepared in Haryana during the tenure of the present government. The new roads have improved the connectivity of the state, which has accelerated economic development.

Praising Prime Minister Sh. Narendra Modi, he said India is progressing rapidly under his leadership. Sh. Narendra Modi has changed the direction of politics and started the politics of work. His resolve to make India a developed nation by 2047 is getting full support from the public.

Reacting to the upcoming elections in Delhi, he said the party has hoisted the victory flag in Haryana and the BJP will be victorious everywhere in the country. He said after Haryana, Maharashtra elections were held and the BJP won there as well, and now, the BJP will win in Delhi too.

He targeted the Aam Aadmi Party saying it was party based on lies and deceit. All the leaders of this party emerged from Anna Hazare’s movement but now, they are involved in corrupt practices. There was no agenda of forming a political party in that movement. The public knows everything and the party has no future in the Delhi elections, the minister added.