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.

Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini meets Prime Minister Narendra Modi, congratulates him on Operation Sindoor and thanks the Army

Chandigarh, May 21:  Haryana Chief Minister Sh Nayab Singh Saini paid a courtesy call on Prime Minister Sh Narendra Modi on Wednesday to congratulate him on the success of Operation Sindoor and express his gratitude to the Army. Later, while addressing the media persons at Haryana Bhawan in New Delhi, Sh Saini praised the leadership of Prime Minister Modi, stating that under his guidance, the brave soldiers of the country had successfully destroyed terrorist hideouts on their own land. “Only the Prime Minister could have taken such a historic decision,” he remarked.

The Chief Minister condemned the cowardly attack by terrorists in Pahalgam, in which innocent civilians were killed. He said the incident deeply hurt and angered the people of the country, who demanded strong action against terrorism. Responding to the nation’s sentiments, Prime Minister Sh Narendra Modi took decisive steps and launched Operation Sindoor, through which our brave soldiers eliminated the terrorists on their own land.

Sh Nayab Singh Saini stated that before 2014, terrorists used to infiltrate the country and carried out attacks, creating an atmosphere of fear and insecurity across the nation. However, Prime Minister Sh Narendra Modi took decisive and stringent measures against terrorism. The Prime Minister made it clear that the time had come to eliminate the remaining ground of terrorism. Our brave soldiers struck at the very land in Pakistan where terrorism was nurtured and protected, and successfully crushed the terrorists at their source.

He said that the country is secure under the leadership of the Prime Minister. By taking such decisive action, the Prime Minister has strengthened the nation, ensuring its safety and empowerment. Today, there is a sense of satisfaction among the citizens, while fear has gripped the minds of terrorists.

In response to a question, the Chief Minister said that Operation Sindoor has exposed the true face of Pakistan to the entire world. While Pakistan was attempting to defame India, Prime Minister Sh Narendra Modi unmasked its role in promoting terrorism on the global stage. He added that the Prime Minister has sent a strong message that “blood and water cannot flow together.”

The Chief Minister said that the Prime Minister has also been briefed on the ongoing development works and schemes in Haryana. He said that several development projects were launched by the Prime Minister on the occasion of Dr. Bhimrao Ambedkar Jayanti. The Chief Minister added that whenever the Prime Minister visits Haryana, it brings a renewed sense of energy and enthusiasm among the people.

In response to another question, the Chief Minister said that the police are thoroughly investigating the cases of spying in Haryana. He added that clear instructions have been issued to conduct a comprehensive probe into the individuals involved.

Education Minister praises Principals of Government Schools with best exam results, Offers guidance to underperforming schools

Chandigarh, May 21 –Haryana Education Minister, Sh Mahipal Dhanda said that Haryana is the first state in the country to implement the National Education Policy 2020. The goal of this policy is to provide students in government schools with better facilities and an improved learning environment. It is also the responsibility of teachers to work diligently and focus on the progress of weaker students. The Minister expressed happiness over the 85% result in the 12th examination of the Haryana Board of School Education. The results included a remarkable 96% pass rate in English, 99% in Hindi, and 98% in Mathematics.

Sh Dhanda congratulated the principals of schools that achieved outstanding results and advised schools with lower performance to put in extra effort to improve their teaching methods, ensuring better results in the coming year. He assured that there would be no shortage of teachers in government schools and added that during the summer vacation, teachers would visit villages and cities for 10 days each to encourage more children to attend government schools.

The Education Minister was chairing a review meeting with senior officials of the Education Department, DEOs, BEOs, and school principals here to discuss the results of the 10th and 12th board examinations of government schools. During the meeting, he congratulated the principals of the top 10 performing schools and learned from their successful experiences. At the same time, he addressed the principals of the 10 schools with lower results, guiding them on the necessary steps for improvement.

He emphasized that schools with lower results would be paired with schools that performed well in order to foster collaboration and enhance their performance for next year’s exams.

To further improve the examination results of government schools, the Education Minister said that board examination papers from the last 10 years would be made available online and offline for student practice. Additionally, supplementary classes and doubt-solving sessions will be organized after school hours to strengthen academic support and exam preparation. State and district-level exhibitions will also be held to encourage scientific thinking and creativity among students.

Principal Secretary School Education Department, Pankaj Aggarwal, Director Secondary Education, Jitendra Dahiya, along with DEOs, BEOs, and school principals, were present at the meeting.

Agency delaying work should be blacklisted: Cabinet Minister Vipul Goyal

Chandigarh, May 21 – Haryana Urban Local Bodies Minister, Mr. Vipul Goyal said that there should be no delays in the development projects under the department. He said that if any agency fails to complete a project within the stipulated time, appropriate action should be taken, including blacklisting the agency.

Mr. Vipul Goyal was chairing a meeting with department officials to review various aspects of ongoing projects.

During the meeting, Mr. Vipul Goyal emphasized the need to closely monitor contractors and agencies handling development tenders, particularly those working on projects taking a 10 percent minus tenders. He stressed that the quality of their work should be regularly checked.

The Cabinet Minister pointed out that some agencies take on tenders but repeatedly extend the project deadlines instead of completing the work on time, which is unacceptable. He said that measures would be taken to ensure the public does not face any inconvenience, and directed concerned officers to take strict action, including blacklisting any firm that fails to meet the project deadlines. In addition, he instructed officials to closely monitor tender estimates to avoid any negligence. He also directed the department to take concrete actions to address the growing issue of stray dogs.

The meeting also covered discussions on the state’s cleanliness system and its ranking. Urban Local Bodies Minister, Mr. Vipul Goyal, addressed various aspects of the cleanliness framework in Haryana. He directed officials to enhance the capacity of cleaning machines across the state, especially replacing outdated machines with newer, technology-driven models in areas where the current machines have become ineffective.

In addition, Mr. Goyal spoke about the cleanliness ranking and urged officials to take concrete steps to improve the state’s position. He said that with proper effort, the state’s cleanliness can improve, thereby boosting its ranking.

Rating should reflect Officer’s Ability

Mr. Goyal also focused on the importance of assessing the performance of officers within the department. He instructed the concerned officials to compile comprehensive ratings for officers across all areas of the Urban Local Bodies Department. The ratings should consider factors such as the officer’s working style, qualifications and their achievements. He stated that by evaluating officers this way, the department could better understand the capabilities of each employee. This approach will help place employees in roles that align with their skills and qualifications, leading to improved performance and ensuring that capable officers are given priority in their respective roles.

The meeting was attended Vikas Gupta, Commissioner and Secretary of the Urban Local Bodies Department, Pankaj, Director General of the Department, and other officers.

1,300 posts of jail warders will be filled shortly: Chief Minister

Chandigarh, May 21 – Haryana Chief Minister Sh Nayab Singh Saini today announced a major recruitment drive in the Prison Department, declaring that around 1,300 posts of jail warders will be filled shortly to further strengthen the state’s judicial and correctional system. Also, medical and paramedical vacancies in the Prison Department, as well as essential staff positions for the newly built Jail Training Academy in Karnal, will also be filled soon.

The Chief Minister made these announcements after inaugurating the Jail Training Academy in Karnal, which aims to provide comprehensive training to prison personnel with a focus on reform, rehabilitation, and modernization. The academy, spread over 6.5 acres and constructed at a cost of Rs 30.29 crore, incorporates energy-efficient and temperature-optimized techniques.

He also announced that new jails will be constructed in Panchkula, Dadri, and Fatehabad, with an investment of approximately Rs 300 crore. Furthermore, a Gaushala will also be started in the premises of the District Jail, Karnal.

Addressing the gathering, the Chief Minister said that the new jail training academy marks the beginning of a transformative approach in the correctional system. “This is not just the inauguration of a building, it is a change of perspective, the beginning of a new vision. Our prisons must become centers of change, revival, and reconstruction, not just punishment,” he said.

He said that the newly built academy will offer induction training for new recruits and refresher courses for existing staff, ensuring that prisons department officers and officials are trained in modern technologies, human rights, and psychological aspects of inmate reform. With changing times, it is essential to equip our jail employees with not just the tools of discipline, but also the spirit of empathy, justice, and social rehabilitation, he added.

India is Transforming under the Leadership of Prime Minister

The Chief Minister said that India is undergoing a profound transformation under the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Sh Narendra Modi. He said that the nation is moving steadily towards becoming a developed and technologically empowered India. A recent example of this was witnessed during Operation Sindoor, where the world recognized India’s technical expertise, operational efficiency, and strategic skill.

He said that technology is playing a pivotal role in enhancing transparency and accountability in governance and public administration. In line with the goals of Digital India, Haryana is also moving towards establishing Smart Jails, where modern tools and systems will improve prison management. As India progresses into Amritkaal, he expressed confidence that this academy will emerge as a pillar of reform and innovation in the justice and correctional system.

Earlier, the Chief Minister also visited an exhibition displaying various products created by jail inmates.

Prison reforms prioritized under CM’s Leadership: Dr. Arvind Sharma

Speaking on the occasion, Cooperation and Jail Minister Dr. Arvind Sharma praised the progressive initiatives being undertaken by the Prison Department under the leadership of Chief Minister Sh Nayab Singh Saini. He said that Haryana’s jails are being modernized and equipped with the latest technology to improve overall management and ensure better rehabilitation outcomes.

Highlighting the evolving role of prisons, Dr. Sharma said that today, jails are not just centers of confinement, they are spaces for transformation where inmates leave as reformed and better individuals. He said that inmates are actively contributing to jail revenue through various skill-based programs initiated within the prison system.

Dr. Sharma also urged the Chief Minister to consider starting weekly Gita Shloka sessions and to ensure that regular yoga classes are held across all jails in the state.

State Government investing in advanced technologies to modernize prison department – Dr Sumita Misra

Additional Chief Secretary, Home and Jails Department, Dr. Sumita Misra expressed pride in the establishment of the Jail Training Academy, calling it a prestigious project brought to life through the vision and support of Chief Minister Sh Nayab Singh Saini. She highlighted that such a modern and specialized jail training facility is not available in neighbouring states, and may well be the first of its kind in North India.

Dr. Misra said that the State Government is actively investing in advanced technologies to modernize prison department. She shared that over 1,100 CCTV cameras have been installed across various jails in the state, significantly enhancing surveillance and security. She further informed that comprehensive mapping of jails with respective courts has been done, enabling undertrial prisoners to appear in court virtually from within jail premises. This initiative not only reduces logistical costs and saves time, but also strengthens security and ensures smoother judicial processes.

Director General, Prisons, Mohd. Akil also spoke on this occasion and provided an overview of the facilities available at the newly established Jail Training Academy.

MLAs Jagmohan Anand, Yogendra Rana, Bhagwan Dass Kabirpanti, Sunil Sangwan, Karnal Mayor Renu Bala Gupta and other dignitaries were also present on this occasion.

TWO ASSOCIATES OF GANGSTER ARSH DALLA HELD IN FARIDKOT; TWO PISTOLS RECOVERED

CHANDIGARH/FARIDKOT, May 21:

          In a major breakthrough amidst the ongoing drive to make Punjab a safe and secure state as per directions of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, Anti Gangster Task Force (AGTF) Punjab in a joint operation with Faridkot Police has arrested two associates of foreign-based Gangster Arsh Dala, said Director General of Police (DGP) Punjab Gaurav Yadav here on Wednesday.

          Those arrested have been identified as Vishal Singh, a resident of Sri Muktsar Sahib and Onkar Singh, a resident of village Gamewala in Ferozepur. Police teams have also recovered two .30 bore pistols along with six live cartridges from their possession.

          DGP Gaurav Yadav said that preliminary investigation revealed that the accused Vishal Singh, who came out on bail recently, was actively planning to eliminate his rival gang member. The accused was continuously in touch with his foreign based handlers and waiting for the directions to execute sensational crime in Punjab, he said.

          The DGP said that further investigation is underway to identify other associates and establish backward and forward linkages in this case.

          Sharing operation details, Additional Director General of Police (ADGP) AGTF Promod Ban said that the teams of the AGTF led by DSP Rajan Parminder based human and intel-inputs located the accused persons in the jurisdiction of Faridkot, and in a joint operation with Faridkot Police has arrested both the accused from near Dana Mandi chownk in Sadiq and recovered weapons from their possession.

          Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Dr Pragya Jain said that both the arrested persons have a criminal background with cases pertaining to attempt to murder, cheating, under Arms Act, etc. have been registered against them.

          A case FIR no. 52 dated 21/5/2025 has been registered under section 25 of the Arms Act at Police Station Sadiq in Faridkot.

DAY 81 OF ‘YUDH NASHIAN VIRUDH’: 150 DRUG SMUGGLERS HELD WITH 7.2KG HEROIN, ₹2.41L DRUG MONEY

CHANDIGARH, May 21:

          With the war against drugs “Yudh Nashian Virudh” waged on the directions of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann to eradicate drug menace from state entered 81st day, Punjab Police on Wednesday arrested 150 drug smugglers and recovered 7.2 kg heroin, 297 kg poppy husk and Rs 2.41 lakhs drug money from their possession. With this, the number of total drug smugglers arrested has reached to 12,496 in just 81 days.

          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 200 Police teams, comprising over 1300 police personnel, under the supervision of 89 gazetted officers have conducted raids at as many as 471 locations across the state leading to the registration of 104 first information reports (FIRs) across the state. Police teams have also checked as many as 504 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 90 persons to undergo de-addiction and rehabilitation treatment today.

In a First, CM Dedicates Chief Minister’s Facilitation Centre at Dhuri

Dhuri (Sangrur), May 21 –

Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann on Wednesday dedicated the Chief Minister’s Facilitation Centre at Dhuri to ensure effective, transparent, and accessible governance for the residents of the Dhuri constituency.

Dedicating the center, the Chief Minister said it will act as a Single Window system for residents of the Dhuri constituency to access all government services under one roof. He added that the initiative aims to bridge the gap between the public and government offices, increase transparency, improve access to data and its analysis for the residents of Dhuri Assembly constituency and ensure quicker redressal of citizen grievances. Bhagwant Singh Mann said this will promote more citizen-centric governance, build public trust, and enhance service delivery.

The Chief Minister stated that the center has been established at a cost of Rs. 1.21 crore, and features six counters and a reception desk. He added that it also includes a meeting-cum-conference hall, and the primary objective is to improve coordination between the public and government offices. Bhagwant Singh Mann emphasized that it will help in the timely resolution of public issues, and a Punjab Civil Services (PCS) officer will be in charge of the center.

The Chief Minister noted that the officer will oversee the delivery of services and monitor development projects in the area. He added that representatives from various departments—including Health, Revenue, Social Security, Police, and Administration—will be present at the center. Bhagwant Singh Mann said the Punjab Government currently provides 443 services through service centers, and this new facility will help people access those services more easily.

He further mentioned that forms for pension schemes, the Ayushman Bharat scheme, Ashirwad scheme, labor cards, Aadhaar card updates, and more will be filled and processed here. One of the key features of the center, the Chief Minister, said, is that citizens will no longer need to visit multiple offices repeatedly. Instead, the center will follow up with the respective departments until the task is completed

Additionally, the Chief Minister said that through Saanjh Kendras, assistance will be provided for preparing documents related to services such as passport issuance, character certificates, FIRs, DDR copies, and NOCs for loudspeakers and events. He emphasized that the Chief Minister’s Facilitation Centre aims to eliminate the harassment commonly faced by citizens in government offices. Bhagwant Singh Mann expressed hope that the center will become a beacon of hope for the common people.

FROM CHALKBOARDS TO POWER CORRIDORS: PUNJAB EMPOWERS GOVERNMENT SCHOOL TOPPERS TO DREAM BIGGER, LEAD BOLDER

Chandigarh, May 21:

          In a pioneering move to celebrate academic excellence and instil leadership aspirations among students of the state government schools, the Chief Minister S. Bhagwant Singh Mann led Punjab Government has launched a first-of-its-kind initiative “Ek Din, DC/SSP de Sang” to offer these bright young minds meaningful exposure to real-world governance, discipline and public service, announced S. Harjot Singh Bains, Minister of School Education, Punjab.

          Elaborating on the initiative, S. Harjot Singh Bains revealed that “Ek Din, DC/SSP de Sang” will unite six topper students (three each from class-10th & 12th) from each district, with Deputy Commissioner and SSP of their respective district. This immersive experience will give students a firsthand experience of the dedication, hard work, and responsibility that come with leadership roles in administration and law enforcement, providing them with invaluable insights into public service and governance.

          The Education Minister highlighted that the core objective of this move is to inspire and empower meritorious students, igniting within them a spark of ambition and purpose. By immersing themselves in the world of governance and leadership, these young minds will understand the importance of governance, community service and leadership’s role in shaping society.

          “We want to provide a platform for our students to learn from experienced leaders for inspiring them to explore careers in public service, besides fostering a sense of responsibility and civic engagement and encourage them to dream bigger and strive for excellence”, S. Harjot Singh Bains said while adding that as these students embark on this journey, they will be treated to a day filled with learning, growth, and mentorship.

          The carefully curated day will include a range of activities, including observe real-time administrative and policing activities such as grievance redressal sessions, cyber cell operations, planning meetings, field visits to development projects, and other relevant engagements. A joint lunch with the officers will also be organised, offering the students an open platform to share their aspirations and receive career guidance. At the conclusion of the program, students will be presented with a Certificate of Participation, a motivational book or diary, and a group photograph with the officer. A detailed feedback and mentoring session will be held to reflect on their experience.

          To document the impact of the initiative, each district will create a short write-up with student reflections, which will be compiled into a “District Merit Booklet”. Schools will also invite participating students to share their experiences with peers, thereby fostering a culture of aspiration and ambition across the student body. Through this visionary program, the Punjab Government reaffirms its commitment to inclusive governance and equitable opportunity, sending a clear message that every child — regardless of background — has the right to dream, lead, and succeed, he added.

          Wishing the students a day of profound learning and inspiration, S. Harjot Singh Bains expressed that the students would have a day filled with discovery, growth, and inspiration and it would leave an indelible mark on their lives and shape their future as leaders.

PUNJAB GOVT ANNOUNCES HOLIDAY IN SUB-DIVISION KAPURTHALA ON MAY 23

Chandigarh, May 21:

          Punjab Government has declared a holiday in Sub-Division Kapurthala on May 23, 2025.

          The officials spokesperson of the state government said that as per the notification issued today, this local holiday has been announced on Friday, May 23, 2025 in observance of the historic fair of Mata Bhadrakali Ji (Shekhupur) for all government institutions, corporations, boards, educational establishments (excluding those institutions where examinations are being conducted) and other government organizations falling within Sub-Division Kapurthala.

Will Ensure Holistic Development of Villages: CM

Dhuri (Sangrur), May 21 :

Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann on Wednesday said that the state government is committed to ensuring the holistic development of villages and is leaving no stone unturned in this noble cause.

Addressing a gathering after reviewing ongoing development works in the villages of Ghanouri Kalan, Ghanour Khurd, Kataron, and Changali, the Chief Minister said that various government departments are working in coordination with each other for the welfare of the rural population. He reiterated that Punjab lives in its villages and that the ultimate goal of a progressive and vibrant Punjab can only be achieved through clean and green villages. Bhagwant Singh Mann added that the state government has already placed major emphasis on achieving this goal.

The Chief Minister said that Dhuri will be developed as a model city through holistic development, backed by adequate funding. He said that the city will soon be equipped with world-class healthcare and educational facilities, improved roads, clean ponds, water recharging systems, and canal water irrigation. Bhagwant Singh Mann noted that significant resources have already been allocated to ensure the comprehensive development of villages in the segment.

He further stated that there is no shortage of funds for development and the state government is making all possible efforts to ensure the holistic progress of villages. The Chief Minister emphasized that a detailed roadmap has been drafted to boost ongoing development efforts in both urban and rural areas. Bhagwant Singh Mann also said that, in addition to development, efforts are being made to place the state on a path of high economic growth for the benefit of its people.

The Chief Minister revealed that a total of Rs. 13.98 crore has been issued for 129 development projects in these Panchayats, out of which 93 projects worth Rs. 8.67 crore have been completed. He added that 36 projects worth Rs. 5.31 crore are currently in progress and will be completed soon. Furthermore, based on the needs of the five village Panchayats, an additional grant of Rs. 12.19 crore has been issued for 32 more development projects, said Bhagwant Singh Mann.