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.

Haryana Chief Minister releases a book on the life and ideology of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar

IEP Chandigarh, January 9

Haryana Chief Minister, Sh. Manohar Lal who is also the Chairman of Haryana Sahitya and Sanskriti Academy said that the thoughts of saints and great personalities have always advocated social harmony and humanism since ancient times. Such great personalities should not be associated with any particular group or community.

Acknowledging the same, the state government has initiated the Sant-Mahapurush Samman evam Vichar Prachar Prasar Yojana, celebrating the birth anniversaries and commemoration days of great personalities at the government level, so that the younger generation can draw inspiration for the welfare of society from the life stories of these great saints and personalities, said Sh. Manohar Lal, as he addressed the writers present after launching the book titled ‘Dr. B.R. Ambedkar: Life and Thought’ by Dr. Krishna Gopal, at his residence Sant Kabir Kutir here today. The book has been published by Haryana Sahitya and Sanskriti Academy.

Sh. Manohar Lal emphasized that literature reflects society, and writers play a significant role in society. A writer, through their words and thoughts, can bring positive changes in society. Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, throughout his life, worked towards social harmony, unity, and prosperity for all sections of society. The book written on his life will undoubtedly inspire the youth to progress in a positive direction, he said.

The Chief Minister said that the thoughts and ideas of Dr. Ambedkar, which contributed significantly to the drafting of the country’s constitution, are the reason why today, the marginalized, oppressed, and needy citizens are enjoying their rights. Dr. Ambedkar’s ideas were not for any specific group in society; he was a strong advocate of social harmony. His contribution cannot be forgotten, as he focused on bringing upliftment to the last person standing at the end of the social hierarchy, said Sh. Manohar Lal.

He further said that a writer, through ancient research, discovers personalities that are not widely known in society. Recently, the state government celebrated Jhalkari Bai’s birth anniversary under the Sant-Mahapurush Samman evam Vichar Prachar Prasar scheme, who was the commander of Rani Lakshmibai’s women’s army.

Director, Haryana Sahitya Academy and Vice Chairman and Director, Haryana Urdu Academy, Dr. Chander Trikha, Executive Vice President Prof. Kuldeep Chand Agnihotri, Political Advisor to Chief Minister, Sh. Bharat Bhushan Bharati and Other literary figures also remained present on this occasion.

Executive officer of Bhiwani Urban Local Body suspended for delaying in issuing a plot allotment letter

IEP Chandigarh, January 09

Haryana Chief Minister, Sh.Manohar Lal on Monday suspended the executive Officer of Urban Local Body, Bhiwani, Abhay Singh for delaying in issuing a plot allotment letter with immediate effect.

OSD to the Chief Minister, Sh. Bhupeshwar Dayal said that the government is working diligently to provide the public with the benefits of all schemes and facilities in a timely manner, also strict action is being taken against the officers and employees who are causing the delays.

The action was taken after a complaint was filed on the CM window portal by Shankar a resident of Ashok Colony, Bhiwani. He alleged that a plot was purchased by him from the Municipal Council, Bhiwani In 1985 and had also deposited the one-fourth of the plot price and security money. However, the municipal council had not issued the allotment letter till date. 

The complainant is ready to pay the remaining amount but despite repeated reminders (on May 12, 2022, August 4, November 17, 2022 and October 5, 2023) no action was taken by the department.

Being the executive Officer of Urban Local Body, Bhiwani, Abhay Singh was responsible to take action for the matter. Hence the Chief Minister suspended him for the delay. Also directions have been given to the Commissioner and Secretary of the Urban Local Bodies Department to take action and to send the report immediately.

OSD Sh. Bhupeshwar Dayal stated that Chief Minister, Sh. Manohar Lal’s goal is for the public to receive all services within the stipulated time frame, and to ensure all the complaints received on CM window should be resolved promptly and every officer should be attentive to their work as no laxity will be tolerated at any level.

Capital investment at lowest level in 15 years: Kumari Selja

IEP Chandigarh


All India Congress Committee General Secretary and former Union Minister Kumari Selja said that the status of capital investment (capex) in the country is at the lowest level in 15 years. In the third quarter of 2023, between September and December, only 462 new projects received investment. Never in 15 years have there been so few projects in a quarter. Despite the number of projects being more than 35 thousand, only 361 projects could be completed.
In a statement issued to the media, Kumari Selja said that to prevent the real reality being known, the BJP central government manipulates the figures so that it can win applause on the basis of false marketing. But, the report of Center for Monitoring Indian Economy (CMIE) has exposed all this.

According to this report, there was no enthusiasm at any level regarding new investment in both government and private projects. The former Union Minister said that based on the number of projects announced by government and private sector promoters, projects worth Rs 10.2 lakh crore should have been completed by December 2023, but only projects worth Rs 1.26 crore could be completed.

That is, 88 percent of the projects missed the deadline in terms of amount. Whereas, the average valuation of projects completed every quarter for the last 10 years has been Rs 1.3 lakh crore. That is, this time due to slow pace, even lesser projects were completed than this average.
Kumari Selja said that the CMIE report shows that 85 percent of the announced projects are either in progress or awaiting clearance. The remaining 15 percent are projects which are stuck.

The trend of 16 years from 2007 till now shows that both in terms of number and amount, the number of such projects is continuously increasing, in which work is not being done even after being approved. The former Union Minister said that in the first two quarters of 2023-24, the stuck up projects was as many as 58-59 percent, which was only 36 percent in 2007 during Manmohan Singh’s Congress government.

A total investment of Rs 259.27 lakh crore has been received for different projects in the country, out of which work is going on only on projects worth Rs 151.78 lakh crore. The stuck projects include those worth Rs 32.64 lakh crore, the status of which is not even known. Therefore, instead of misleading the public with false figures, the BJP central government should release the white paper and tell the real reality.

Haryana Deputy Chief Minister Tightens Noose on Liquor Irregularities and Revenue Theft

IEP Chandigarh

Haryana Deputy Chief Minister, Mr. Dushyant Chautala today emphasized the need for robust liquor tracking and trace processes to eliminate any scope for irregularities. Presiding over a review meeting regarding track and trace system of the Excise Department, he issued strict instructions to concerned officers.

Enhanced Bar-code Scanning: At every stage, from liquor preparation in distilleries to loading and warehouse arrival, there must be bar-code scanning to ensure transparency and accountability.

Zero Tolerance for Revenue Theft: Mr. Chautala emphasized absolute intolerance for revenue theft within the Excise Department. He instructed officers to implement robust measures to prevent any pilferage or manipulation.

Flow Meter Vigilance: The Deputy Chief Minister reviewed the installation of flow meters in distilleries and reiterated the need for strict monitoring to prevent discrepancies.

Swift Penalty Recovery: He inquired about penalties imposed on rule-violating contractors and directed the department to expedite the recovery of outstanding arrears.

Feedback-driven Technology Adoption: Mr. Chautala directed senior officers to take feedback from DETCs of the districts regarding track and trace and other new technologies. Positive feedback would prompt their implementation across the state. Exports Guidance: He reviewed liquor and alcohol exports from Haryana distilleries to various countries and offered appropriate guidelines for efficient and compliant export operations.

Principal Secretary, Excise and Taxation Department, Mr. Devinder Singh Kalyan, Commissioner, Mr. Ashok Kumar Meena, OSD to Deputy Chief Minister, Mr. Kamlesh Kumar Bhadoo, and other senior officers were present in the meeting.

Haryana Police Scores Big: Battling Drug Abuse with Innovative Sports Strategy”

IEP Chandigarh

The Director General of Police Haryana Shatrujeet Kapur has underscored the significance of employing sports competitions in villages to divert young individuals from drug use. He said that Haryana Police’s anti-drug initiative through sports has drawn enthusiastic participation from the youth.

This program features the invaluable support of policemen, ex-servicemen, and sportspersons who act as mentors and guides for young people. Mr Kapur said that sports constitute a highly effective means to channel the energy of the youth in a positive direction. This not only fosters the physical development of young individuals but also equips them to excel in various fitness examinations. As part of this initiative, a Youth Sports Festival was successfully organized in Panipat district, witnessing the enthusiastic participation of more than 2200 young individuals who showcased the depth of their talent. Moreover, similar sports activities are being meticulously arranged in districts including Hisar, Bhiwani, Dadri, Sirsa, Dabwali, Narnaul, Rewari, Nuh, Palwal, Jhajjar, Sonipat, Panipat, Karnal, and Kurukshetra.”

“He said that as part of this initiative, Special Police Officers (SPOs) under 50, with prior experience in sports within the army and paramilitary, have been designated in various villages. In this role, these SPOs, alongside police personnel and seasoned players, are actively encouraging and motivating the youth to engage in sporting activities, both in the mornings and evenings. Simultaneously, efforts are underway to form teams comprising these individuals, ensuring their preparedness for participation in district and state-level competitions.”

“The Director General of Police emphasized the critical role that youth play as the future of the country, underscoring the importance of directing their energy towards positive endeavors. Through sports, the youth are not only engaged in physical activities but are also actively connected to the de-addiction campaign. This connection aims to encourage them to stay away from drugs while inspiring others to do the same. The Director General acknowledged the commendable efforts of village and ward guards, who have diligently worked for several months by compiling records of individuals involved in the buying and selling of drugs within their communities.”

“Sh. Kapur highlighted the extensive efforts undertaken to create a drug-free state. Last year, the Haryana State Narcotics Control Bureau organized 1830 awareness campaigns, drawing the participation of 9,59,205 individuals. Simultaneously, in a vigorous campaign against drug smugglers, the state’s bureaus registered 3823 FIRs, resulting in the arrest of 5460 individuals. Furthermore, as part of the de-addiction initiative, a Cyclothon was conducted under the leadership of Chief Minister Mr. Manohar Lal, as part of the Haryana Uday program from September 1 to September 25 last year. This event not only aimed to inspire the youth to distance themselves from drugs but also provided crucial information about the detrimental effects of drug abuse.”

Air services will commence from Hisar Airport by April this year

IEP Chandigarh

Haryana Deputy Chief Minister, Mr. Dushyant Chautala said that air services will commence from Hisar Airport to various important cities in the country by April of this year. Today, he engaged in a detailed discussion with officials from Alliance-Air Company, and an MoU with the company is set to be signed soon.

        The Deputy Chief Minister, who is also holding the portfolio of Civil Aviation Department, shared this information after presiding over a joint meeting with officials from Civil Aviation and Alliance-Air Company.

        Mr. Dushyant Chautala said that the air connectivity in the state will operate on the concept of “State VGF (Viable Gap Funding),” ensuring that passengers do not incur extra fares. Initially, air travel will commence, with plans to deploy a 70-seater aircraft from Hisar Airport to connect routes like Chandigarh, Delhi, Jammu, Ahmedabad, Jaipur, and Kullu. The routes will undergo a review after the first 90 days, and based on passenger demand, flights will be expanded to include destinations such as Lucknow, Varanasi, and Ambala.

        The Deputy Chief Minister said that with the introduction of air connectivity to Hisar, the region can expect growth in defense and other industries, ultimately serving as a substantial source of revenue for the state.

NHAI should initiate the process of constructing a toll plaza in Pachgaon at the earliest: D.S. Dhesi

IEP Chandigarh January 8

Principal Adviser, Urban Development, Sh. D.S. Dhesi today held a key meeting with the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) officers concerned and discussed the development of roads in Gurugram. He directed the officers to expedite the acquisition process of the land for the toll plaza being shifted from Kherki Daula to Pachgaon.

        Sh. D.S. Dhesi said that the land for the toll plaza in Pachgaon has been transferred from HSIIDC to GMDA, and GMDA has further transferred it to NHAI, providing all the necessary documents. Now, NHAI needs to complete the acquisition process and initiate the construction work without any delay. He emphasized that there should be no negligence in this work, and the project will be commenced under the supervision of NHAI’s Project Director, Rewari.

        Sh. D.S. Dhesi, suggested constructing the roads connecting to Sohna, Faridabad and Jaipur in such a way that traffic flow becomes smooth. He advocated for opening the service road of Dwarka Expressway in Gurugram city for the convenience of motorists. Meanwhile, the NHAI officers shared that the audit of this road is ongoing, and it will be opened soon in the coming days. Sh. D.S. Dhesi directed NHAI officers to construct a flyover for pedestrians near IMT on Manesar Highway by June.

        Sh. D.S. Dhesi also gave directions to expedite the completion of Gurugram-Pataudi Road. Officials from the National Highways Authority of India reported that 50 percent of the work on this road has already been completed. GMDA has provided a 6 km stretch for constructing this road.

        Deputy Commissioners, Sh. Nishant Kumar Yadav expressed concern about the condition of the road from Honda Chowk to Bawal and suggested widening it. Sh. D.S. Dhesi further directed the authorities to take prompt action on this matter.

        CEO, GMDA, Sh. A.Sreenivas, Deputy Commissioner, Sh. Nishant Kumar Yadav, Commissioner, Municipal Corporation, Sh. Ashok Garg and other officers also remained present on this occasion.

In view of extreme weather conditions, CM announces a change in the  timing of the electricity supply to tube wells

IEP Chandigarh

Known for its pro-farmer policies, Chief Minister, Sh. Manohar Lal-led Haryana Government has yet again taken a key decision in the interest of farmers.

        As per the decision, the farmers will now be able to irrigate their fields during the daytime as well after the Chief Minister has directed the officers concerned to change the timing of the electricity supply at tube wells.  Now farmers will get electricity in 2 shifts during the day.

        The said decision has been taken in view of the extreme weather conditions. With the change in timings, the farmers will now be able to irrigate their fields without facing any problems caused due to severe cold conditions.

        As per the directions of the Chief Minister, the power department will now ensure uninterrupted power supply to the farmers from 5 am to 1 pm and from 10 am to 6 pm.

        For the last few days, farmers from across the state has been urging the government about the problems being faced by them due to weather conditions, acknowledging the same the Chief Minister took this significant decision today.

19kg heroin recovery: Punjab police arrest three more members of Mannu Mahawa cartel; 3.5 kg heroin recovered

IEP CHANDIGARH/AMRITSAR, January 8

          Following a vigorous follow-up investigation in a 19-kg heroin recovery case carried out as part of the decisive war against drugs launched on the directions of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, Punjab Police on Monday arrested three more members of Mannu Mahawa cartel and recovered an additional chunk 3.5kg heroin, taking the total recovery to 22.5 kg in this case.

          Director General of Police (DGP) Gaurav Yadav has identified the arrested persons as Balraj Singh alias Kaka of village Lahorimal in Amritsar, Anmol Singh alias Laalu and Sarabjit Singh, both residents of Ranjhe di Haveli in Amritsar. With the arrest of these three more accused persons in this case, the total arrests have reached 10, he added.

          He said that apart from recovering heroin, Police teams have also recovered 10 live cartridges of .30 Bore and 9 live cartridges of 9 MM along with one car Safari from their possession.

          The development came a little over a week after the Commissionerate Police Amritsar had busted a cross-border drug and arms smuggling racket being operated by USA-based smuggler Manpreet alias Mannu Mahawa with the arrest of its two key persons and recovered 19kg heroin, Rs 23 lakh drug money, 7 pistols including one 9mm Glock and drone parts.

          Sharing more details, Commissioner of Police (CP) Amritsar Gurpreet Singh Bhullar said that following reliable inputs that wanted accused Anmol Singh alias Laalu along with his accomplices were spotted in area of Sultanwind, Police teams of CIA Staff-3 under supervision of DCP Harpreet Singh Mandher, ADCP CITY-3 Abhimanyu Rana, ACP Sarabjit Singh Bajwa conducted a special nakabandi and arrested three accused persons.

          He said that as per preliminary investigations, the accused were directly in touch with Pakistan-based smuggler Shah and USA-based Manu Mahawa, and were supplying Drugs and Arms-Ammunition across the state after smuggling from Pakistan via Drones. This consignment was also sent by Pak-based smugglers, he added.

          CP Bhullar said that further investigations are being conducted to probe the backward linkages and unearth the whole network of drug suppliers, dealers and their buyers.

          An FIR No 298 dated 31/12/2023 had already been registered under sections 21 and 29 of the NDPS Act and section 25 of the Arms Act at Police Station Islamabad.

Water Supply and Sanitation Minister Bram Shanker Jimpa visits Talwara Surface Water Project

IEP Chandigarh, January 8

          On the directions of the Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, Water Supply and Sanitation Minister Bram Shanker Jimpa visited Talwara Surface Water Project last evening. This project will provide clean and drinkable water to 197 villages of Talwara, Hajipur, Bhunga and Dasuya blocks. The project is scheduled to be completed by next year. It is pertinent to mention that through this project, a pipeline of about 231 km long is to be laid from Shah Canal Barrage.

          Jimpa said that the total cost of this project is Rs. 258.73 crore. After the completion of this project, the drinking water problem of the people of Kandi area will be solved.  Jimpa also issued directions for timely completion of the project and instructed that the work should be of high standard.

          He further said that the government, led by Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, is dedicatedly working towards making the state ‘Rangla Punjab.’ For this purpose, all necessary facilities should be prioritized for villages. He said that the villages in which the ground water is not drinkable are being connected with canal water projects.

          On the occasion, MLA Karamvir Singh Ghumman, SE Vijay Kumar, Executive Engineer Anuj Sharma and other officers and employees of the department were present.