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.

Chandigarh, Punjab

YUDH NASHIAN VIRUDH: PUNJAB POLICE RECOVERS OVER 500 KG HEROIN IN 79 DAYS

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CHANDIGARH, May 19:

          In a significant stride under the ongoing anti-drugs campaign ‘Yudh Nashian Virudh’ launched on the directions of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, Punjab Police has recovered 515 kilograms of heroin in just 79 days. Since the launch of the campaign on March 1, 2025, Punjab Police has registered 7128 first information reports (FIRs) and arrested 11954 drug smugglers, reaffirming its commitment to a drug-free Punjab.

          Notably, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann had asked the Commissioners of Police, Deputy Commissioners and Senior Superintendent of Police to make Punjab drug free state. Since the launch of the Yudh Nashian Virudh campaign, Punjab Police under the directions of Director General of Police (DGP) Punjab Gaurav Yadav has been conducting different operations including cordon and search operations, night domination and raids at drug hotspots acros the state.

          Special Director General of Police (Special DGP) Law and Order Arpit Shukla, who has been personally overseeing the operations, revealed that apart from the 515 kg haul of heroin, police have also seized 224 kg opium, 124 quintals poppy husk, 8 kg charas, 150 kg ganja, 2.5 kg ICE, 24.22 lakh intoxicant pills/tablets, and ₹9.70 crore drug money.

          “The recovery of 515 kg heroin in less than three months is a testament to Punjab Police’s unwavering resolve to eradicate drugs from the state,” said the Special DGP.

          Sharing details of outcome of Day 79, the Special DGP said that Punjab Police has arrested 147 drug smugglers and recovered 2.7 kg heroin, 84 kg poppy husk, 73000 and ₹1.22 lakh drug money from their possession.

          Over 250 Police teams, comprising over 1600 police personnel, under the supervision of 92 gazetted officers have conducted raids at as many as 505 locations across the state leading to the registration of 109 first information reports (FIRs) across the state, he said, while adding that police teams have also checked as many as 692 suspicious persons during the day long operation.

          Meanwhile, 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 49 persons to undergo de-addiction and rehabilitation treatment.

Chandigarh, Punjab

AAP Government Brings Major Relief to Employees of Rural Dispensaries under Zila Parishads

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Chandigarh, May 19:

In a landmark decision, the Punjab Government, under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, has extended long-overdue relief to 804 employees working in rural dispensaries under Zila Parishads after nearly two decades.

This significant move benefits 441 Rural Health Pharmacy Officers/Paramedical Staff and 363 Attendant-cum-Class IV employees working in these dispensaries. Their monthly salaries have been increased, and they are now eligible to continue in service until the age of 58.

Punjab Rural Development and Panchayats Minister Tarunpreet Singh Sond informed that as per the policy issued by the Department of Personnel on May 16, 2023, these employees will be officially covered under this policy effective from April 1, 2025.

Previously, Pharmacy Officers were receiving a monthly salary of Rs. 11,000. Under this policy, their salaries have been raised to Rs. 20,000. Additionally, they will receive an annual increment of 5% until their salary reaches Rs. 30,000, followed by a 3% annual increment thereafter.

Similarly, the monthly salary of Attendant-cum-Class IV employees has been increased from Rs. 6,000 to Rs. 15,000. These employees will now receive a 5% annual salary hike until their salary reaches Rs. 25,000, after which a 3% annual increment will apply.

This policy ensures both categories of employees can now serve up to the age of 58.

Expressing gratitude, the employees of rural dispensaries thanked the Punjab Government for acknowledging their long-standing demands. Gurmeet Singh Kulewal, State President, shared that these workers were initially hired on contract in 2006 and had been neglected by successive governments over the past 19–20 years. He lauded the Aam Aadmi Party-led government for finally recognizing their services.

It is noteworthy that this decision will result in an additional monthly financial burden of approximately Rs. 72 lakh on the state exchequer.

Chandigarh, Punjab

CM GIVES NOD TO COMMEMORATE 350TH MARTYRDOM DAY OF SRI GURU TEG BAHADUR JI IN A BEFITTING MANNER

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Chandigarh, May 19:

The Group of Ministers (GoM) led by Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann on Monday gave nod to a series of events to be organized by the state government to commemorate the 350th martyrdom day of Sri Guru Teg Bahadur ji in a befitting manner.

Chairing a meeting here at his official residence, the Chief Minister reiterated that that the state government is duty bound to organize a series of events to observe the 350th martyrdom day of ninth Sikh Guru Sri Guru Teg Bahadur ji on a massive level. He said that the state government will establish a chair in Punjabi  university (Patiala) for research work on the life and philosophy of Guru Sahib. Likewise, Bhagwant Singh Mann said that a booklet on the history of Guru Sahib will also be released along with another booklet on Bani of Guru Sahib.

The Chief Minister also gave approval to organize the Under-17 football tournament at Sri Anandpur Sahib besides World Peace Conference and World Interfaith Conference across the state. Similarly, he said seminars will also be organized in various districts of Punjab as a tribute to Sri Guru Teg Bahadur ji’s unparalleled and unique sacrifice that will ever remain a source of inspiration for generations to come. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that this coupled with a series of other functions will be organized across the state and comprehensive development of places having the footsteps of the Guru Sahib will be ensured.

The Chief Minister said that the department of Sports, Higher Education, Tourism and culture, Information and Public Relations along with others will zealously organize seminars, conferences, kirtan Darbars, light and sound shows, publish books and others to commemorate the event. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that  a Yatra will be undertaken from Jammu to Delhi via Baba Bakala and Sri Anandpur Sahib to perpetuate the glorious legacy of Sri Guru Teg Bahadur ji- who was the first proponent of human rights across the globe. He further said that major push will be given to infrastructure development at 63 places having footprints of Guru Sahib in districts including Roopnagar, Mansa, Bathinda, Patiala, Jalandhar, Sangrur, SBS Nagar, Tarn Taran, Sri Fatehgarh Sahib, Barnala, Sri Muktsar Sahib, Amritsar, SAS Nagar and others.

The Chief Minister said that the state government will spruce up these sacred places of immense historical importance. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that apart from this the state government will also urge the Government of India to issue a Commemorative postal stamp on Guru Teg Bahadur ji. He said Guru ji popularly known as ‘Hind di Chadar’ was the saviour of Dharma and crusader of religious freedom.

The Chief Minister said that it was immensely important for everyone to respect all the religions thereby fostering the bonds of communal harmony, peace, national integration and unity. He said that Sri Guru Teg Bahadur ji laid down his life at the altar of righteousness (Dharma) to save the Hindu religion from the tyranny of Mughals. He said that entire humanity seeks inspiration from Guru Teg Bahadur ji’s supreme sacrifice for the welfare of humanity while fighting against injustice, cruelty and oppression.

Chandigarh, Punjab

Crackdown on corruption : Vigilance Bureau nabs Kanungo red-handed accepting Rs 25,000 bribe

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Chandigarh, May 19 – Continuing its relentless crackdown on corruption, the Punjab Vigilance Bureau (VB) has apprehended Field Kanungo Avtar Singh, posted at Sub-Tehsil Sherpur, District Sangrur, red handed while accepting a bribe of Rs 25,000. 

Disclosing this here today an official spokesperson of the state VB said the accused was arrested in a well-coordinated operation following a complaint by a resident of village Malku Patti, Tehsil Dhuri, District Sangrur.

He further added that the complainant has approached the VB informed that he had applied for the division of his family’s agricultural land among all legal heirs. The complainant alleged that aforementioned accused Avtar Singh had already extorted Rs 18,000 as bribe from him and was demanding an additional Rs 25,000 to process his application.

The spokesperson further added that after a preliminary enquiry the VB team laid a trap during which the accused has been arrested while he was accepting the bribe from the complainant in the presence of two official witnesses. 

In this regard a case has been registered against the said accused under the Prevention of Corruption Act at VB police station Patiala range. He would be produced before the competent court tomorrow and further investigations into this case was under progress, he said.

Punjab

Zero tolerance against corruption : MVI arrested red handed accepting Rs 3,600 bribe

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Chandigarh, May 19, 2025 –

           Reinforcing the Punjab Government’s zero-tolerance policy against corruption, the Punjab Vigilance Bureau (VB) has arrested Motor Vehicle Inspector (MVI) Gurpreet Singh, posted at Faridkot, while accepting a bribe of Rs 3,600. During the operation the VB team has recovered Rs 7,200 from his possession and an additional Rs 1,26,500 from his vehicle, suspected to be bribe money.

          An official VB spokesperson stated that the arrest followed a complaint from a Faridkot resident, who alleged that the accused had demanded Rs 1,800 per vehicle to approve the fitness certificates of his two trucks. After verifying the complaint, the VB laid a trap and apprehended Gurpreet Singh red-handed while accepting Rs 3,600 as bribe in the presence of two official witnesses.

          In this regard a case under the Prevention of Corruption Act has been registered against the accused at the VB police station, Ferozepur range and further investigations are underway, he added.

Chandigarh, Punjab

Mohinder Bhagat Conducts Thorough Review of Horticulture Schemes – Emphasis on Enhancing Farmers’ Income

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Chandigarh, May 19:

Punjab Horticulture Minister Mr. Mohinder Bhagat today conducted an in-depth review of various schemes being run by the Horticulture Department for the welfare of farmers. The Minister presided over a high-level meeting with horticulture officers at the Punjab Civil Secretariat.

During the meeting, Mr. Bhagat closely examined the implementation process of farmer welfare schemes and stressed that the benefits of these schemes must reach the beneficiaries without any delay.

He stated that under the leadership of Chief Minister S. Bhagwant Mann, the Punjab Government is committed to promote crop diversification and modern techniques in agriculture so as to increase farmers’ income and reduce dependence on traditional farming.

Mr. Bhagat further added that the state government is making concerted efforts to ensure the effective implementation of farmer welfare schemes, with a clear focus on boosting farmers’ income in a timely and impactful manner.

Chandigarh, Haryana

Brave soldiers of India carried out Operation Sindoor with courage, loyalty and discipline: CM Nayab Singh Saini

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Chandigarh, May 17 – Haryana Chief Minister Sh. Nayab Singh Saini said the courage, loyalty and discipline with which our brave soldiers have carried out Operation Sindoor has become a symbol of national dignity.

The Chief Minister said this while addressing the people at the Tiranga Yatra in Buhavi village of Ladwa Assembly constituency today. A large number of youth, women and elderly people participated in the Tiranga Yatra led by the Chief Minister and contributed enthusiastically in this campaign being run in honour of the brave soldiers of the country and those martyred in Operation Sindoor. On this occasion, the Chief Minister announced to give Rs 21 lakh to the Gram Panchayat of Buhavi village for development works.

He said today is not just an event, but an opportunity to pay true tribute to the spirit of patriotism and sacrifice. We have gathered here to salute those great sons who protected the country under Operation Sindoor and brought Pakistan to its knees in just four days. He said he salutes those brave soldiers who participated in Operation Sindoor. He also salutes those mothers who gave birth to such brave soldiers. He said all the people should take a pledge through this Tiranga Yatra that they will always stand united against terrorism.

Lakhs of soldiers from Haryana ready to serve the country

The Chief Minister said lakhs of soldiers from the brave land of Haryana are ready to serve Mother India. The soldiers of every village have become an example of bravery. Through this Tiranga Yatra, you have given the message to the entire Haryana and country that the spirit of patriotism is deeply rooted in this village.

Consequences of attacking India’s sovereignty will be adverse

He said the whole world heard the message of Prime Minister Sh. Narendra Modi that India will go to any extent to protect its citizens. This is the confidence of the New India. He said our forces destroyed the terrorist bases in Operation Sindoor and gave a clear message to Pakistan that the consequences of attacking India’s sovereignty will be adverse. In Operation Sindoor, the Army destroyed 9 terrorist hideouts of Pakistan and 11 airbases of Pakistan.

India also carried out non-military action

The Chief Minister said India not only carried out Operation Sindoor but also carried out non-military action by suspending the Indus Water Treaty and stopping visas and trade. Pakistani citizens living in India were sent back, the Attari border was sealed and Pakistan was isolated from the whole world. He said this was not a war. This was the revenge of the New India. Sh. Nayab Singh Saini said that under Operation Sindoor, nine places were attacked on the day of Sita Navami. The sindoor of our sisters and daughters was destroyed in Pahalgam. That is why this operation was named Sindoor. He said after leaving the women alive in Pahalgam, the terrorists had said to go and tell Modi. Now, Prime Minister Sh. Narendra Modi has told them what happens to those who raise their eyes on the identity of India.

India set an example of restraint and peace

The Chief Minister said when ceasefire was discussed on international forums, India again set an example of restraint and peace. It is not just a military decision, but an important step taken towards humanity. This is a proof of the maturity, prudence and self-confidence of our country. This bravery and restraint makes India a great nation. It is the result of the leadership of the Prime Minister that decisive action is being taken against terrorism, the Army has been empowered and India’s prestige has increased in the world.

On this occasion, a large number of people, including former minister Sh. Subhash Sudha and BJP District President Sh. Tejinder Singh Goldy, were present.

Chandigarh, Haryana

Haryana Government Committed to Promoting an Industry-Friendly Policy Ecosystem: Rao Narbir Singh

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Chandigarh, May 17 – In a significant step towards enhancing direct engagement with the industrial sector and shaping policies that are more practical and impactful, the Haryana Government organized a stakeholder consultation meeting in Gurugram today for making Draft Haryana Electronic System Design & Manufacturing (ESDM) Policy 2025 and Draft Haryana AVGC-XR Policy 2025. The meeting was chaired by Industries and Commerce Minister Sh. Rao Narbir Singh. He said the government seeks to frame such industry-conducive policies that more and more stakeholders can associate with and contribute to the state and nation’s progress.

The consultation focused on the Draft Haryana Electronic System Design and Manufacturing (ESDM) Policy 2025 and the Draft Haryana AVGC-XR Policy 2025, and was held at PWD Rest House in Gurugram. Key officials present included Sh. Nitin Bansal, Chief Technology Officer of the Industries Department; Sh. Virender Singh, Advisor to the Cabinet Minister; Sh. Ishwar Singh Yadav, Joint Director; and Shri Brijpal, Deputy Director.

During the meeting, Rao Narbir Singh said on the state’s economic and industrial strategies, reaffirming the government’s unwavering commitment to fostering an industry-driven policy ecosystem. He emphasized that such efforts are essential for driving economic growth, enhancing global competitiveness and ensuring ease of doing business.

He said that “Over the past decade, Haryana has consistently broken away from outdated industrial practices”. “In today’s global scenario, it is evident that economic progress hinges on industrial growth. As we aim for a developed India by 2047, your (industry) participation is vital. The Haryana Government will continue its efforts to maintain ongoing dialogue with stakeholders to accelerate industrial development in the state, he asserted.”

Stakeholder Suggestions to Be Included in Final Policies

He further assured stakeholders that under the leadership of Chief Minister Sh. Nayab Singh Saini, the process of policy reforms in Haryana is ongoing. The government seeks to frame such industry-conducive policies that more and more stakeholders can associate with and contribute to the state and nation’s progress.

The Industry Minister said that “All creative and practical suggestions shared by stakeholders will be carefully reviewed and integrated into the final versions of the policies”. “This will not only strengthen the state’s industrial landscape but also position Haryana as a leader in the sector,” he added.

Presentation on Policy Objectives

Chief Technology Officer Sh. Nitin Bansal provided an overview of the policies. He stated that in alignment with the ‘Make in India’ mission, the ESDM policy aims to develop Haryana as a leading hub through innovation, infrastructure development, and skill enhancement. Meanwhile, the AVGC-XR Policy 2025 focuses on boosting domestic production and providing support through skill training and infrastructure incentives.

Stakeholders Appreciate Government’s Proactive Approach

Industry leaders, trade organizations, and institutional representatives appreciated the Haryana Government’s visionary leadership and industry-centric initiatives. They praised the proactive steps taken by the government to foster a favorable investment climate in the state.

The participants acknowledged the government’s efforts to prioritize industry needs, simplify regulatory processes and ensure smooth business operations. They noted that such supportive policies not only attract investment but also empower local enterprises.

On this occasion, notable participants included representatives from Corning Technologies India Pvt. Ltd., IESA, Anexpi Semiconductor, ATL, Vividion, Reliance Industries, Applied Materials, Dell Technologies, Amber Group, Nodwin Games, Charuvi Design Lab, Winzo, Junglee Games, Yologram, India Gaming Digital Society and Game Developers Association of India, among other.

Chandigarh, Haryana

Haryana Government Mandates Video Conferencing in Quasi-Judicial Proceedings

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Chandigarh, May 16 – The Haryana Government has directed the adoption of video conferencing facilities in the proceedings of Commissions and Authorities functioning as quasi-judicial bodies across the state.

 In a letter addressed to all concerned Administrative Secretaries and Heads of the Departments, Chief Secretary Sh. Anurag Rastogi stated that the Department of Administration of Justice has notified the establishment of Designated Conferencing Facilities. These facilities will now be utilized for the appearance of government officials via video conference in all commissions and authorities functioning as quasi-judicial bodies.

 This move aligns with the provisions of the newly enacted Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023 such as Section 336 of the Bhartiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023 (Evidence of public servants, experts, police officers in certain cases), and Section 530 of the Bhartiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023 (Trial and proceedings to be held in electronic mode). Additionally, the Supreme Court of India, in Civil Appeal Nos. 23-24 of 2024 in Special Leave to Appeal (C) Nos. 8575-8576 of 2023, titled “The State of Uttar Pradesh and Others Vs. Association of Retired Supreme Court and High Court Judges at Allahabad and Others”, has formulated a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) that also promotes the appearance of government officials through video conference.

The letter further stated that the use of video conferencing facilities be adopted in Haryana Human Rights Commission, Haryana State Commission for Women, Haryana Backward Classes Commission, Haryana Scheduled Castes Commission, Haryana Right to Service Commission, State Information Commission, Haryana and State Police Complaint Authority, Haryana.

Officials have been instructed to ensure strict compliance with these guidelines. Any deviation or laxity in implementation will be viewed seriously by the state government, the letter added.

Chandigarh, Haryana

High-tension power lines will be removed from above houses in Mahendragarh: Arvind Kumar Sharma

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Chandigarh, May 16 – Haryana’s Cooperative Minister Dr. Arvind Kumar Sharma said 504 dangerous 11/33 KV power lines identified in Mahendragarh district will be removed from above the houses. This work will be completed by the end of the year. Dr. Arvind Kumar Sharma was chairing the meeting of the District Grievance Redressal Committee in Narnaul today. On this occasion, he held a public hearing of 14 pre-determined cases.

During this, speaking on the complaint of Balwan Singh, a resident of Uninda village, the minister directed the officials that the tenders for the already identified dangerous power lines have been opened, so the work should be completed within the stipulated time. On the complaint of illegal occupation by Gram Panchayat Bachini, he directed that this work should be completed after the proposed visit of the Chief Minister on May 18. On the complaint of Motilal, a resident of Khatoti Sultanpur, the officials informed that notices have been issued in the related matter and illegal encroachments will be removed soon.

On this occasion, Narnaul MLA and former minister Sh. Omprakash Yadav, Nangal Chaudhary MLA Smt. Manju Chaudhary, BJP District President Sh. Yatendra Rao, Deputy Commissioner Dr. Vivek Bharti, Superintendent of Police Smt. Pooja Vashisht and other officers of the district administration were present.