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

Chandigarh, Haryana

Chief Minister pays tribute to Martyr Dinesh Kumar Sharma

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Chandigarh, May 15 – Haryana Chief Minister, Sh Nayab Singh Saini today visited village Nagla Mohammadpur to pay tribute to Lance Naik Dinesh Kumar Sharma, a martyr from the subdivision of Hodal in district Palwal. Dinesh Kumar Sharma was martyred in a recent attack by the Pakistani Army on the Poonch border. The Chief Minister offered floral tributes to a portrait of the martyr and expressed his heartfelt condolences to be bereaved family members.

During his visit, he assured the martyr’s family that both the government and the entire region stand with them in this time of grief. He consoled the bereaved family and promised all possible support.

The Chief Minister praised the bravery of Lance Naik Dinesh Kumar Sharma, who valiantly defended the border against enemy fire, ultimately sacrificing his life in the service of the nation. He said that his sacrifice is a source of immense pride for all Indians. It is noteworthy that the late Dinesh Kumar Sharma was posted at the Poonch border at the time of his martyrdom.

A Park to be built in the village in memory of Martyr Dinesh Kumar Sharma: Chief Minister

The Chief Minister said that the family of Martyr Dinesh Kumar Sharma would receive financial assistance and other benefits as per the government’s policy. In response to a suggestion by the martyr’s father, Daya Chand, to create a park on two and a half bigha of land in the village, the Chief Minister assured that a park would be constructed in the martyr’s name, honoring his supreme sacrifice during Operation Sindoor.

Chief Minister pays tribute to late Sheeshram Pathak

Afterward, Chief Minister Sh Nayab Singh Saini visited the residence of the village Sarpanch, Kumar Yugpurush, to pay tribute to the Sarpanch’s grandfather, the late Pandit Sheeshram Pathak. The Chief Minister consoled the family members during this difficult time.

CM announces upgrade of primary school in response to Women’s request

While returning from the village, Chief Minister noticed a group of women gathered along the road. He stopped his convoy to listen to their concerns. The women requested the upgrade of the village’s primary school. In response, the Chief Minister immediately announced the upgrading of the primary school, fulfilling the demand on the spot.

On this occasion, Union Minister of State for Cooperation, Krishan Pal Gurjar, Haryana Minister of State for Sports, Gaurav Gautam, MLA Harendra Singh, along with several dignitaries and village officials, were present.

Chandigarh, Haryana

Haryana to Commemorate 2025 as International Year of Cooperatives With Series of Activities

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Chandigarh, May 15 – Haryana Chief Secretary Sh. Anurag Rastogi chaired the 4th Meeting of State Cooperative Development Committee here today.

During the meeting, the Chief Secretary directed officials to identify one such cooperative which can be turned into a model cooperative in the next one year, which would be known for its unique identity and service delivery. He emphasized that this model cooperative should exemplify innovation, transparency, sustainability, and outstanding service delivery, thereby setting a benchmark for others to follow.

The department unveiled a comprehensive year-long plan to commemorate the International Year of Cooperatives (IYC) 2025, in alignment with the United Nations’ declaration recognizing the crucial role of cooperatives in advancing sustainable development.

Under the guidance of Chief Minister Sh. Nayab Singh Saini, the state has constituted the IYC-State Apex Committee (SAC) to coordinate and supervise the series of activities scheduled throughout the year. The celebrations will begin with the formal launch of the IYC-2025 annual calendar, an action plan booklet, and various publicity materials. The IYC logo will be prominently featured across government communications, social media platforms, and public displays. Activities will include cleanliness drives, cooperative-themed podcasts, and the implementation of e-office systems in all cooperative departments.

The meeting was informed that a wide range of programmes will be organized focusing on themes such as women empowerment, youth engagement, technological innovation, and sustainable farming practices. These will include special events, skill development initiatives, national seminars, and grassroots-level campaigns aimed at spreading awareness and strengthening the cooperative movement. The calendar of events also includes a cyclothon, webinars, exhibitions, plantation drives, and knowledge exchange programmes. A plantation drive under the campaign ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’ shall also be launched this year.

Through these extensive programmes, the Haryana Government aims to strengthen the cooperative spirit, showcase the state’s achievements, and encourage active public participation. The initiative is expected to contribute significantly to Haryana’s socio-economic development by promoting cooperatives as a model of inclusive and sustainable growth.

Commissioner & Secretary, Cooperation Department, Smt. Ashima Brar informed that the department is actively progressing with the computerisation of 710 Primary Agricultural Credit Societies (PACS) and Primary Cooperative Credit Societies (PCCS) in the first phase of its digital transformation initiative. She stated that all required hardware has been delivered and installed, with internet connectivity now fully established across all 710 PACS. Out of these, 39 PACS have already been designated as functional e-PACS, marking a key milestone in the state’s digital cooperative reform efforts.

She said in line with fulfilling the Prime Minister’s vision of ‘Sahakar-se-Samriddhi’, the Government of India has decided to allow PACS to operate Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samriddhi Kendras (PMKSK). There are 793 PACS out of which 772 PACS have fertilizer licence and 747 PACS have been converted as PMKSK in the state. To support this transformation, fertilizer companies have provided these Kendras with essential infrastructure, including LED display units, tables, chairs, and branded signboards. This initiative is expected to significantly enhance last-mile service delivery and improve farmers’ access to quality agricultural inputs and advisory services.

Commissioner & Secretary, Development & Panchayats Department, Dr. Amit Kumar Agrawal, Registrar, Cooperative Societies, Sh. Rajesh Jogpal, and other senior officers were present in the meeting.

Chandigarh, Haryana

2 IAS officers get additional charge

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Chandigarh, May 15 – The Haryana Government has issued posting/transfer orders of two IAS officers with immediate effect.

Dr. Priyanka Soni, Special Secretary, Vigilance Department and Special Secretary, Monitoring & Coordination has been posted as Director, New & Renewable Energy and Special Secretary, New Renewable and Energy Department, in addition to her present duties.

Sh. Akhil Pilani, District Municipal Commissioner, Yamunanagar, has been posted as Commissioner, Municipal Corporation, Yamunanagar, in addition to his present duties.

Chandigarh, Chandigarh

MC Chandigarh challans 88 violators for Water Wastage during one month, Urges Citizens to Save Water

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Chandigarh, May 15:-*

As part of its ongoing Save Water campaign, the Municipal Corporation Chandigarh has intensified action against water wastage by issuing challans and notices to violators across the city.

During last one month from 15th April to 15th May, 2025,  total 1,202 notices and 88 challans were issued against the violators. This move underscores the Corporation’s strict stance on preventing water wastage, especially in the run-up to the monsoon season.

While speaking about the drive against water wastage, Sh. Amit Kumar, IAS, Commissioner, MC Chandigarh said that the Corporation has put all efforts to save drinking water from wastage I.e. washing of vehicles and watering lawns specially in the morning hours when peak hours of water consumption in the city. He said that the MCC has also started making connections of TT water supply to the kanal houses for irrigation purposes.

He urged citizens to avoid water wastage, cooperate with enforcement efforts, and actively contribute to making Chandigarh a model city for water conservation.

Chandigarh, Punjab

Minister on the Ground: Sond Conducts Surprise Inspections, Monitors Progress of Rural Rejuvenation Works announced in Budget

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Khijrabad (Banur)/Chandigarh, May 15:

          Punjab Rural Development and Panchayats Minister, Tarunpreet Singh Sond, announced that under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, the Punjab Government has embarked on a transformative mission to enhance the aesthetics and vitality of the state’s villages. He emphasized that the Punjab government’s initiatives will leave a lasting impact on rural Punjab.

          Highlighting key developments, Minister Sond stated that 15,000 village ponds are being cleaned and rejuvenated, and 13,000 rural sports grounds are being developed or upgraded as part of a comprehensive strategy to uplift rural life and promote youth engagement. He criticized previous governments for their inaction in maintaining village ponds and providing sports facilities for rural youth.

          Addressing a press conference during a visit to the rural sports ground in Khijrabad (Banur), accompanied by MLA Neena Mittal, Sond remarked, “In every village, two locations define its spirit — the pond and the playground. Our government is committed to revitalizing both, ensuring that they become symbols of prosperity and pride.”

          As part of the Rural Rejuvenation Mission, the government is building or upgrading over 13,000 sports grounds across all 154 development blocks. These efforts are aligned with the government’s broader vision of a “Yudh Nashiyan Virudh,” encouraging youth participation in sports and steering them away from substance abuse.

          The projects are being implemented through a combination of budgetary funds worth Rs. 3,500 crore, MGNREGA, and Finance Commission grants. Furthermore, 3,000 new Model Sports Grounds are being constructed with special focus on locally popular sports, and 4,300 existing playgrounds are undergoing significant upgrades.

          Sond expressed concern that many rural children grow up without access to sports facilities, which hinders their physical development and career prospects. “We are ensuring that every child in every village has access to safe, green, and well-equipped playgrounds to play, compete, and grow,” he stated.

          Later, Sond visited villages including Azizpur, Fareedpur Gujjran, Bhateri, Nalas Khurd, and Manakpur to review the status of playground development and pond cleaning. During an inspection of the Azizpur Stadium, he noted some deficiencies and directed the Patiala ADC to submit a report.

          He revealed that this is the first-of-its-kind mission in Punjab, aimed at cleaning, rejuvenating, and treating water in over 15,000 ponds across all 154 blocks in a phased manner. According to field reports, Dewatering has been completed in 1,587 ponds and ongoing in 4,408 ponds. Similarly, Desilting has been completed in over 515 ponds and underway in 1,901 ponds. The entire dewatering process is expected to be completed by May 30, 2025.

          The Minister announced that in the first phase of FY 2025-26, 5,000 ponds will be developed under the Thapar/Seechewal model. “This is not just a cleanliness initiative. It is a movement to restore dignity and quality of life in our villages,” he said.

          For decades, many village ponds had turned into dumping grounds, filled with waste, plastic, and wild overgrowth, becoming unfit for animals, mosquito breeding grounds, and unsuitable for agriculture. Now, these water bodies are being transformed into clean water sources to be reused for farming and community needs.

          He emphasized that large-scale dewatering and desilting operations are being undertaken for the first time in decades, significantly enhancing water storage capacity and natural flow patterns. This initiative marks a historic step in Punjab’s rural transformation, demonstrating the state government’s unwavering commitment to clean water, youth empowerment, and sustainable village development.

Chandigarh, Punjab

Zero tolerance against corruption : Municipal Corporation Assistant Town Planner arrested for demanding Rs 30000 bribe

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Chandigarh, May 15, 2025 –

 The Punjab Vigilance Bureau (VB), in line with the zero tolerance policy against corruption adopted by the Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann led Punjab government, has apprehended Sukhdev Vashisht, an Assistant Town Planner (ATP), Municipal Corporation, Jalandhar for demanding a bribe of Rs. 30,000.

Disclosing this here today an official spokesperson of the state VB said the said accused has been arrested based on several complaints received from the stakeholders.

He further added that the complainants have alleged that the said accused had been deliberately delaying file approvals and extorting money from the applicants. They informed that despite 70 percent of building maps in the area have already been approved by the MC, but the aforementioned ATP Vashisht had refused to clear certain files unless bribes were paid. As per the complaint, the said ATP has demanded Rs. 30,000 to process the case. The complainants also accused him of using threats, including sealing buildings during inspections to intimidate applicants and even told that he is not afraid of his transfer.

He further added that after a preliminary examination of the complaint, the VB Jalandhar range has registered a case under the Prevention of Corruption Act against the said MC official and arrested him. Further Investigations are ongoing to determine the extent of corruption, he said.

Chandigarh, Punjab

North Zone Jalandhar Sees Major Power Infrastructure Boost:  Harbhajan Singh ETO

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Chandigarh, May 15, 2025:

 Under the able guidance and visionary leadership of  Chief Minister of Punjab, S. Bhagwant Singh Mann, the Punjab State Power Corporation Limited (PSPCL) continues to make remarkable strides in strengthening and expanding the electricity infrastructure across the state. The North Zone has seen significant improvements in electricity supply, capacity enhancement, and infrastructure development during the year 2024–25.

Giving this information here on Wednesday, Power Minister Harbhajan Singh ETO added that in the North Zone, electricity is being supplied to four districts Hoshiarpur, Nawanshahr, Kapurthala, and Jalandhar. To serve these districts effectively, the zone is equipped with 2 Sub-stations of 400KV, 15 Sub-stations of 220KV and 19 Sub-stations of 132KV. In addition, there are 128 Sub-stations of 66KV with a cumulative capacity of 3886.5 MVA.

 The zone also maintains 179 lines of 66KV covering 1555.091 circuit kilometres (CKT KM) and 3 lines of 33KV spanning 2.7 CKT KM.

He added that during the year 2024–25, electricity was supplied to a total of 22,42,638 consumers through 2059 feeders of 11KV. Out of these, 57 feeders were De-loaded to enhance reliability and prevent overloading. The length of HT (High Tension) lines under this GEN (General Electrical Network) now stands at 36,196.45 KM, reflecting an increase of 313.83 KM as compared to the previous year (2023–24).

The Power Minister said that to further support the electricity distribution network, 1,58,043 transformers have been installed across the zone with a total capacity of 6427.174 MVA — an increase of 3020 distribution transformers with 177.64MVA capacity over the previous year. The length of L.T (Low Tension) lines is now 29,686.31 KM, ensuring deeper penetration of electricity supply to remote areas.

He said that in terms of upgradation, a total of 2 Nos. power transformers have been augmented from 6.3/8.0 MVA to 12.5 MVA, 4 transformers from 10/12.5 MVA to 20 MVA, and 11 transformers from 20 MVA to 31.5 MVA across various 66KV substations under this zone. Additionally, 1No. new 66KV has been constructed to further strengthen the distribution network.

Further, he said that under the Revamped Distribution Sector Scheme (RDSS), provision of Rs.844.81 Crore has been made for the North Zone. This allocation covers 109 bi-connections of 11KV feeders, 150 Nos. cabling works, 150 Nos. upgrades to high-capacity conductors, 182 Nos. new transformers to enhance distribution capacity, the construction of 4 Nos. new Sub-stations, and the installation of 21Nos. new distribution lines.

The Power Minister said these initiatives are expected to significantly improve the quality and reliability of electricity supply and reduce incidents of tripping and outages.

Chandigarh, Punjab

PNB (Lead Bank) Mohali felicitates meritorious students

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SAS Nagar, May 15:
Punjab National Bank (PNB), the lead bank of District Mohali, honored meritorious students from two schools in recognition of their exceptional academic performance in the recently declared results. The initiative, driven by PNB’s top management, aims to motivate other students to excel in their studies.

The PNB Mohali team, led by Deputy Circle Head Sh. Som Dass Shivgotra, LDM Mohali Sh. M K Bhardwaj, and Varinder Singh from the marketing team, participated in the felicitation events.

The first event was held at Govt. Girls Senior Secondary School, Sohana, Mohali (Punjab School Education Board), under the leadership of Principal Ms. Himanshu Latawa and her dedicated team of teachers. PNB recognized four outstanding students for their remarkable performance in the 12th grade: Jasneet Kaur (95.4%), Kamaljeet Kaur (95%), Priya Muskan (94.4%), and Bhavneet Kaur (94.4%).

The second event took place at Sacred Soul School, Gharuan (CBSE Board), where students also achieved excellent results. In the 12th grade, Amarpreet Singh secured 95% and Rishabh Singla scored 91.8%. In the 10th grade, Tanishka achieved 96.6% and Pranav Gupta secured 94%. The event was attended by the school’s director Sh. D P Singh, Principal Mrs. Manbir Brar, and Manager Sh. Inder Pal Singh.

During the events, LDM Mohali Sh. M K Bhardwaj also addressed the students on the growing concern of cybercrimes in the region, advising them to stay vigilant during financial transactions. Additionally, PNB’s new deposit schemes were introduced to the students and school staff.

Chandigarh, Haryana, Punjab

Punjab Slams Haryana’s ‘Technically Impossible’ Water Demand of 10,300 Cusecs

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Chandigarh, May 15:

Punjab Water Resources and Soil and Water Conservation Minister Barinder Kumar Goyal today said that Haryana has further complicated water-sharing negotiations by increasing its already unfeasible water demand from 9,525 cusecs to 10,300 cusecs during today’s Technical Committee meeting of the Bhakra Beas Management Board (BBMB).

Following the meeting of officials of state of Punjab, Rajasthan and Haryana, the Cabinet Minister informed that Haryana’s escalating demand clearly shows its unwillingness to reach a reasonable resolution to our shared water challenges. Haryana tactics appear designed to create an impossible situation rather than work toward practical solutions.

He said that in the Technical Committee meeting, chaired by the BBMB Chairman, Water Resources Secretary Krishan Kumar and Chief Engineer Sher Singh represented the Punjab, alongside Chief Engineers from Haryana and Rajasthan, with Central Government representatives participating virtually.

The Cabinet Minister said that “Haryana had initially demanded 8,500 cusecs, which our technical team clearly explained was impossible to provide. On humanitarian grounds, Punjab has already been supplying 4,000 cusecs since April 4 specifically for drinking water purposes,” said Barinder Kumar Goyal.

He informed that as we already explained our limitations, Haryana has demanded 10,300 cusecs of water to be delivered from May 21 onward, despite their previous written correspondence requesting 9,525 cusecs, which is significant and unexplained increase.

Barinder Kumar Goyal, while stressing the physical impossibility of meeting Haryana’s demands, said that the Bhakra Main Line (BML) has a maximum capacity of 11,700 cusecs. Punjab requires a minimum of 3,000 cusecs for our own critical needs. Now, Haryana’s demand of 10,300 cusecs would effectively leave Punjab with almost no water and exceeds what the infrastructure can safely handle, especially while repairs of BML are ongoing.

He said that Punjab officials presented documentation of Haryana’s previous written request for 9,525 cusecs during the meeting, highlighting the contradiction with their new demand. The BBMB Chairman acknowledged the discrepancy and committed to examining the matter further, he added.

“By making these technically impossible demands, Haryana is deliberately creating complications in the water-sharing arrangement,” said the Cabinet Minister, adding that Punjab has consistently adhered to all BBMB rules and regulations, while Haryana continues to shift its position.

The Minister also clarified Punjab’s position regarding the ongoing water supply, saying that the 4,000 cusecs we have been providing to Haryana since April 4 is drawn from Punjab’s allocation. We have formally stated that the total accumulated volume will need to be returned to Punjab when required.

The Cabinet Minister said that when the meeting began, the Rajasthan government expressed appreciation to Punjab for reliably supplying water when needed. In contrast, Haryana reverted to making excessive demands.

Chandigarh, Punjab

Minister on the Ground: Sond Conducts Surprise Inspections, Monitors Progress of Rural Rejuvenation Works announced in Budget

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Khijrabad (Banur)/Chandigarh, May 15:

Punjab Rural Development and Panchayats Minister, Tarunpreet Singh Sond, announced that under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, the Punjab Government has embarked on a transformative mission to enhance the aesthetics and vitality of the state’s villages. He emphasized that the Punjab government’s initiatives will leave a lasting impact on rural Punjab.

Highlighting key developments, Minister Sond stated that 15,000 village ponds are being cleaned and rejuvenated, and 13,000 rural sports grounds are being developed or upgraded as part of a comprehensive strategy to uplift rural life and promote youth engagement. He criticized previous governments for their inaction in maintaining village ponds and providing sports facilities for rural youth.

Addressing a press conference during a visit to the rural sports ground in Khijrabad (Banur), accompanied by MLA Neena Mittal, Sond remarked, “In every village, two locations define its spirit — the pond and the playground. Our government is committed to revitalizing both, ensuring that they become symbols of prosperity and pride.”

As part of the Rural Rejuvenation Mission, the government is building or upgrading over 13,000 sports grounds across all 154 development blocks. These efforts are aligned with the government’s broader vision of a “Yudh Nashiyan Virudh,” encouraging youth participation in sports and steering them away from substance abuse.

The projects are being implemented through a combination of budgetary funds worth Rs. 3,500 crore, MGNREGA, and Finance Commission grants. Furthermore, 3,000 new Model Sports Grounds are being constructed with special focus on locally popular sports, and 4,300 existing playgrounds are undergoing significant upgrades.

Sond expressed concern that many rural children grow up without access to sports facilities, which hinders their physical development and career prospects. “We are ensuring that every child in every village has access to safe, green, and well-equipped playgrounds to play, compete, and grow,” he stated.

Later, Sond visited villages including Azizpur, Fareedpur Gujjran, Bhateri, Nalas Khurd, and Manakpur to review the status of playground development and pond cleaning. During an inspection of the Azizpur Stadium, he noted some deficiencies and directed the Patiala ADC to submit a report.

He revealed that this is the first-of-its-kind mission in Punjab, aimed at cleaning, rejuvenating, and treating water in over 15,000 ponds across all 154 blocks in a phased manner. According to field reports, Dewatering has been completed in 1,587 ponds and ongoing in 4,408 ponds. Similarly, Desilting has been completed in over 515 ponds and underway in 1,901 ponds. The entire dewatering process is expected to be completed by May 30, 2025.

The Minister announced that in the first phase of FY 2025-26, 5,000 ponds will be developed under the Thapar/Seechewal model. “This is not just a cleanliness initiative. It is a movement to restore dignity and quality of life in our villages,” he said.

For decades, many village ponds had turned into dumping grounds, filled with waste, plastic, and wild overgrowth, becoming unfit for animals, mosquito breeding grounds, and unsuitable for agriculture. Now, these water bodies are being transformed into clean water sources to be reused for farming and community needs.

He emphasized that large-scale dewatering and desilting operations are being undertaken for the first time in decades, significantly enhancing water storage capacity and natural flow patterns. This initiative marks a historic step in Punjab’s rural transformation, demonstrating the state government’s unwavering commitment to clean water, youth empowerment, and sustainable village development.