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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.

BJP will make Punjab the leading state of the country under the leadership of PM Narendra Modi: CM Nayab Singh Saini

Chandigarh, January 4 – Haryana Chief Minister, Sh. Nayab Singh Saini said that in the 2027 elections, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) will form the government in Punjab under the leadership of Prime Minister, Sh. Narendra Modi and make Punjab one of the leading states of the country. He said that the leaders of the present Punjab government came to power by making false promises, but even after four years, instead of working in the interest of the people, they are exploiting Punjab. Drug addiction, unemployment and fake promises have ruined the state. He said that once the BJP government is formed in Punjab, development will be carried out on the lines of Haryana.

The Chief Minister was addressing a public gathering at the grain market of Ghanaur in Patiala district, located near the Haryana–Punjab border, on Sunday. He said that there was a time when it was said that there was no atmosphere for the BJP in Haryana, but after 2014, the situation changed and today the BJP is in power in Haryana for the third consecutive term. On similar lines, the BJP government will also be formed in Punjab.

The Chief Minister said that before coming to power, the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) had promised to make Punjab drug-free, but instead drug abuse has increased in the state. Promises were made to provide employment to the youth, but even after four years, not a single promise has been fulfilled. The AAP had promised to give Rs. 1,000 to women, but it has not been given till date. It was also promised that senior citizens would be given a pension of Rs. 2,500, but even today only Rs.1,500 is being provided, that too after a delay of three to four months.

Sh. Nayab Singh Saini said that in Haryana, the BJP had promised to provide LPG cylinders at Rs. 500 and Rs. 2,100 to women after forming the government. As soon as the government was formed, the Rs.500 cylinder scheme was implemented, and now under the Lado Lakshmi Scheme, Rs. 2,100 is being provided to women, thereby fulfilling the promise. Senior citizens in Haryana are being given a pension of Rs. 3,200, which is the highest in the country. He said that before the elections, the Congress had put a ban on recruitment, and later the BJP promised that it would take oath later but issue appointment letters to the youth first. As soon as the BJP government was formed, the oath was taken later and appointment letters were issued to 25,000 youth. All crops of farmers in Haryana are being procured at MSP.

The Chief Minister said that a resolution was passed in the Haryana Vidhan Sabha to pay homage to the martyrdom of Sri Guru Teg Bahadur Ji, and his 350th martyrdom anniversary was observed with month-long programmes across the state. Essay writing, seminars and various activities were organised in schools and colleges to make the younger generation aware of his supreme sacrifice. To mark the occasion, 350 blood donation camps were organised, with 350 units of blood collected at each camp. The Haryana government is taking the saga of the sacrifices of the Gurus to every household. Last month, on the 25th, Prime Minister, Sh.Narendra Modi visited Kurukshetra and paid tribute to Sri Guru Teg Bahadur Ji by releasing a coin, a postage stamp and a coffee table book in his memory. Universities in Haryana are also being named after the Gurus.

He said that in Punjab, the doors of the AAP government shut after 5 pm. Taking a jibe at AAP leader Arvind Kejriwal, he said that no matter how many promises are made by them, they have nothing to deliver. The people of Punjab are bearing the brunt of this today. A once happy, prosperous and developed Punjab has been ruined by the Aam Aadmi Party government.

Giving details of the Haryana government’s schemes, the Chief Minister said that the Congress had talked about giving plots to the poor, but neither papers nor possession were given to them. Today, such people are being provided with plots along with possession.

The Chief Minister asked the Aam Aadmi Party government in Punjab and the earlier Congress governments to explain what they have done for the common people. Talking about crop damage compensation, he said that during ten years of Congress rule in Haryana, only Rs. 1,138 crore was paid as compensation, while the BJP government has so far given Rs. 15,500 crore to farmers. He said that Punjab suffered heavy losses during last year’s floods, and the Punjab government should clarify how much compensation was given to farmers. In contrast, the Haryana government has deposited Rs. 116 crore directly into the accounts of farmers whose crops were damaged. An amount of Rs. 5 crore was also provided as financial assistance to those whose houses and livestock were damaged.

He said that on the lines of the Ayushman Bharat scheme launched by Prime Minister, Sh. Narendra Modi, the Chirayu Scheme has been implemented in Haryana to provide healthcare facilities to the people. Out of a population of 2.5 crore, around 1.5 crore people are eligible under these schemes. So far, 25 lakh people have received treatment under these schemes. Taking a jibe, he said that the AAP government claims to have opened Mohalla Clinics, but there are no doctors available in them. Prime Minister, Sh. Narendra Modi has decided that treatment of citizens above 70 years of age will be borne by the government, and in Haryana, Rs. 8 crore has already been spent on the treatment of such senior citizens.

Chief Minister, Sh. Nayab Singh Saini said that only the BJP can take Punjab forward. He said that while corruption allegations were earlier levelled against the Congress, the present Punjab government has surpassed even the Congress in this regard, with its ministers behind bars. He alleged that they have looted the hard-earned money of the people of Punjab, and that the people are fed up with them. He said that in 2027, Punjab will stand with the BJP. Once a BJP government is formed in Punjab, Prime Minister, Sh. Narendra Modi will make Punjab the number one state in the country. Development on the lines of Haryana will also take place in Punjab, and together, everyone will take Punjab forward.

Former Minister, Sh. Aseem Goel, Former Member of Parliament from Patiala, Smt. Preneet Kaur and others also addressed the public gathering.

State government working continuously to realise the Prime Minister’s Vision: CM Nayab Singh Saini

Chandigarh, January 4 – Haryana Chief Minister, Sh. Nayab Singh Saini said that industrialists can play a crucial role in bringing an industrial revolution to the country. The state government is making continuous efforts to realise the vision of Prime Minister, Sh.Narendra Modi of making India the world’s third-largest economy by 2029.

 The Chief Minister was addressing a delegation of industrialists from Punjab at his residence Sant Kabir Kutir, Chandigarh on Sunday, led by OSD to Chief Minister, Sh.Tarun Bhandari. OSD to Chief Minister, Sh. B.B. Bharti was also present on the occasion.

The Chief Minister said that the future belongs to electric vehicles and, therefore, the government is preparing a plan to set up an Electric Vehicle Park. A major electric vehicle battery industry has already been established in Gurugram. He said the government is working to accelerate industrial growth in the state.

He said that Prime Minister, Sh. Narendra Modi, through initiatives such as ‘Make in India’ and ‘Vocal for Local’, has emphasised the use of domestically manufactured products to drive the nation forward. The credit for this progress goes to industrialists, who have strengthened the country’s economy through entrepreneurship and innovation, he added.

Sh.Nayab Singh Saini said that the Prime Minister has systematically promoted industrial development, and positive outcomes have emerged from this collaborative approach. He said that while the Prime Minister had resolved to make India the world’s fifth-largest economy, the country has already become the fourth-largest economic power. All the industrialists deserve congratulations for this achievement.

The Chief Minister said that besides the Central Government’s MSE-CDP scheme, the state has launched the Mini Cluster Development Scheme. Under these schemes, projects worth Rs. 170 crore are underway across 48 MSME clusters, benefiting more than 8,000 MSMEs in Haryana. He added that the state has streamlined its systems to focus on industries and provide a better working environment for industrialists.

He said that during his recent visit to Japan, there was an encouraging response from industrialists, with investments worth Rs. 5,000 crore proposed. Of this, work has already begun on investments worth Rs. 2,000 crores, and several industrialists have finalised land selection. He said the state government is implementing suggestions in the interest of industrialists in line with the Prime Minister’s vision.

The Chief Minister said that pre-budget meetings are being organised to seek suggestions, which are being incorporated into the budget. He added that his doors are always open to industrialists who wish to meet him and that anyone may meet him without hesitation at any time. He said that encouraging industry in this manner will help fulfil the Prime Minister’s vision and realise the dream of a developed nation.

The Chief Minister said that during the previous budget, the establishment of 10 IMTs was announced, of which land has already been identified for two IMTs, and industrialists are investing in them. He assured that the government stands with industrialists and will provide all possible assistance. He also said that a single-window system has been implemented in the state, under which NOCs will be granted to industrialists within a defined timeframe.

Sh. Nayab Singh Saini said that the revenue collected as tax in Haryana will be spent on improving industrial facilities. He added that electricity rates in the state are also reasonable. An IMT has been established near the airport in Hisar, land agreements have been completed for an IMT in Ambala, and preparations for an IMT in Naraingarh have also been made.

He further said that a proposal for land in Sonipat has been approved for a dry fruit market from Amritsar. Permission has also been granted for a wholesale market and a marble market for Delhi, and work on these projects will begin soon. He said that work is underway to develop a pharma hub in Karnal, and that Maruti has set up a major project in Gurugram, where around 2,000 vehicles are being manufactured every day.

Industrialists including Sh. Joginder Singh Handa, Sh. Saurabh Mehta, Sh. A.K. Garg,Sh. Rahul Garg, Sh. Praveen Kansal, Sh. Pankaj Kapoor, and Sh. Gurdeep Singh, along with several others, presented their suggestions before the Chief Minister.

MANN GOVERNMENT’S CONCRETE AND RESULT-ORIENTED STEPS TOWARDS A DRUG-FREE PUNJAB: DR BALJIT KAUR

Chandigarh, January 4:

Punjab’s Social Security, Women and Child Development Minister Dr Baljit Kaur said that under the leadership of Chief Minister S. Bhagwant Singh Mann, the Punjab Government is working with firm resolve and continuity to make the state drug-free. She said that several important and concrete steps have been taken in this direction, the results of which are clearly visible at the grassroots level. To effectively take forward the drug-free campaign, a total amount of Rs 467.49 lakh has been spent by the government.

The Cabinet Minister said that to generate awareness against drugs, sensitise people and strengthen social participation, various departments of the Punjab Government have jointly planned and implemented multiple programmes in a coordinated manner. She said that special focus has been laid on sensitising children and teachers about the drug de-addiction campaign by designing and implementing various awareness programmes in schools and educational institutions, for which dedicated financial resources have also been provided.

Sharing further details, Dr Baljit Kaur informed that under the drug-free campaign, the Department of Health and Family Welfare spent Rs 107.22 lakh, the Information and Public Relations Department spent Rs 202.99 lakh on extensive public awareness activities, while the Social Security Department spent Rs 109.12 lakh to organise awareness camps across all districts of the state.

The Minister said that the worst impact of drug abuse is borne by the youth of the state and their families. Many mothers pray every day for their sons’ future, many children see hope fading from their fathers’ eyes, and the happiness of numerous households has been destroyed due to drugs. She said that the Mann Government deeply understands this pain and is pursuing the fight for a drug-free Punjab not merely as an administrative exercise, but with a humane and sensitive approach.

Emphasising the government’s resolve, Dr Baljit Kaur said that the objective is not only to eradicate drugs from their roots, but also to give every young person the courage to dream again, to wipe the tears of every mother, and to restore happiness and prosperity in every family. She said that Chief Minister S. Bhagwant Singh Mann is firmly committed to ensuring that every youth of Punjab stays away from drugs and moves forward towards a life of progress and dignity.

On this occasion, Additional Chief Secretary of the Department of Social Security, Women and Child Development, Mr. Vikas Pratap; Principal Secretary of the Department of Health and Family Welfare, Mr. Kumar Rahul; Special Secretary of the Department of Social Security, Women and Child Development, Mr. Keshav Hingonia; Director Dr. Shena Agrawal; Joint Secretary Mr. Anand Sagar Sharma, along with other senior officers of the department, were specially present in the meeting.

PUNJAB REVOLUTIONIZES MATERNAL CARE AS 20,000 PREGNANT WOMEN MONTHLY TURN TO AAM AADMI CLINICS FOR COMPREHENSIVE CARE

CHANDIGARH, January 4:

 In a major stride toward safeguarding the health of future generations, the Bhagwant Singh Mann-led Punjab Government has successfully decentralized maternal healthcare, with Aam Aadmi Clinics (AACs) emerging as the new lifeline for expectant mothers. Within just four months of launching a specialized, protocol-driven pregnancy care model, the state has recorded a massive surge in service utilization, with nearly 20,000 pregnant women visiting these clinics every month.

 Sharing the success of the initiative, Punjab Health and Family Welfare Minister Dr. Balbir Singh revealed that the program has already provided free ultrasound services to over 10,000 women through a unique referral system. By empanelling nearly 500 private diagnostic centers, the government has ensured that women can access scans—which usually cost between ₹800 and ₹2,000—entirely free of charge. This intervention alone has saved Punjab’s families an estimated ₹1 crore in out-of-pocket expenses in a short span of 120 days.

 Official data shows that less than 70 percent of pregnant women in Punjab had received their first ante-natal check-up and fewer than 60 percent had completed the recommended four check-ups, while the state’s maternal mortality ratio stood at 90 per one lakh live births, higher than the national average. These figures underlined the urgent need for a comprehensive, accessible pregnancy care model across the state.

 Punjab witnesses nearly 4.3 lakh pregnancies every year, making early detection, regular monitoring, and timely referral critical for safeguarding the health of mothers and infants. Over the last three years, the Mann government has established 881 Aam Aadmi Clinics, which have emerged as the backbone of Punjab’s primary healthcare system, recording over 4.6 crore OPD visits and treating nearly 70,000 patients daily. Leveraging this infrastructure, the government launched an expanded, protocol-driven pregnancy care model through AACs around four months ago.

 Under this reform, all essential ante-natal check-ups are now available at Aam Aadmi Clinics themselves. These include routine and critical tests such as HIV and syphilis screening, complete blood tests, sugar, thyroid, hepatitis, fetal heart rate, cholesterol and hemoglobin assessments. Where ultrasounds are required, AAC doctors issue referral slips enabling pregnant women to access free ultrasound services.

 Importantly, around 5,000 women are being identified monthly as high-risk pregnancies, allowing for continuous tracking, focused support, and timely referral to higher medical facilities for specialist care.

 The reform has also significantly improved the patient experience. Women can now complete most pregnancy-related tests close to their homes, avoid long travel and queues at major hospitals, receive consultations within minutes, and access ultrasound services without any financial burden. From the first ante-natal visit to post-natal follow-up, the initiative strengthens the entire pregnancy care pathway by integrating technology, standardised clinical protocols, referral systems and community-level support.

 On this momentous achievement, Health Minister Dr Balbir Singh said the initiative reflects the Punjab government’s commitment to maternal and child health. “Under the visionary leadership of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, Punjab is building a healthcare system that ensures every mother receives quality care close to home. With 4.3 lakh pregnancies annually, the expansion of pregnancy care services at Aam Aadmi Clinics is a transformative step and sets a new benchmark for primary healthcare in India,” he said.

 The government maintains that the initiative is one of Punjab’s most significant investments in maternal and child health in recent years, aimed at ensuring that no woman is left behind due to geography, income constraints or lack of awareness, while steadily improving health outcomes for mothers and newborns across the state.

‘YUDH NASHIAN VIRUDH’: ON DAY 309, PUNJAB POLICE NABS 94 DRUG SMUGGLERS WITH 593GMs HEROIN

CHANDIGARH, January 4:

          Continuing the war against drugs “Yudh Nashian Virudh” waged by Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann to eradicate drug menace from state consecutively for the 309th day, Punjab Police conducted raids at 312 locations on Sunday leading to the arrest of 94 drug smugglers after registration of 79 first information reports (FIRs) across the state. With this, the number of total drug smugglers arrested has reached to 43,206 in 309 days.

          The raids have resulted in recovery of 593 grams heroin, 1.2 kg opium, 1198 intoxicant tablets/capsules and Rs 11,620 drug money from the possession of arrested drug smugglers.

          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.

          Over 120 Police teams, comprising over 1000 police personnel, under the supervision of 71 gazetted officers have conducted 312 raids across the state. Police teams have also checked as many as 320 suspicious persons during the day-long operation.

          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 61 persons to undergo de-addiction and rehabilitation treatment today.

Himachal Pradesh Creates Guinness World Record for “The Largest Handmade Shawl Display at a Single Venue”

Shimla, January 2026 – The Department of Industries, Government of Himachal Pradesh, has officially created a Guinness World Record for displaying the most handmade shawls at a single venue. This proud achievement marks a historic moment for the state and its rich handloom tradition.

A total of 4,023 handmade shawls crafted by artisans and Women Self-Help Groups (SHGs) from all 12 districts of Himachal Pradesh were displayed together in Shimla, creating a beautiful and colorful view that reflected the state’s unmatched weaving skills and traditions. The Guinness World Records organization has confirmed this record.

The record attempt was part of the ongoing HIM MSME Fest 2026 being organized by the Department of Industries, Government of Himachal Pradesh, honoring and celebrating the skill of local weavers while promoting the rich handloom heritage of the state, and showcasing Himachali shawls as symbols of India’s traditional artistry and sustainable craftsmanship.

This record stands as a tribute to the commitment and hard work of thousands of weavers who brought pride to the state through their art. It highlights the Himachal Pradesh Government’s continuous efforts to promote artisans, support local craftsmanship, involve youth in traditional weaving, and strengthen the rural economy through handloom activities.

The Guinness World Records certificate was received by the Chief Minister of Himachal Pradesh, Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu. The event was attended by the Hon’ble Industries Minister, Harshwardhan Chauhan, Administrative Secretaries, and senior officials of the Government of Himachal Pradesh.

Through this global achievement, Himachal Pradesh has once again brought to the world’s attention its cultural strength, traditional artistry, and the unity of its artisan community, making the state a symbol of creativity, heritage, and excellence.

Peterhoff Hosts a Confluence of Enterprise, Investment and Policy Dialogue — Charting Himachal Pradesh’s Future Growth Roadmap

Shimla:
The historic Peterhoff complex in Shimla emerged as a vibrant centre of ideas, vision and confidence on Saturday, as Day Two of HIM MSME Fest 2026 unfolded as a high-impact platform for entrepreneurship, investment and policy dialogue. More than a scheduled event, the day evolved into a dynamic exchange where ambition met opportunity and Himachal Pradesh’s industrial future took a decisive shape.

The day commenced at 11:00 AM with the Women Entrepreneurs Conference, a session marked by inspiration, resilience and purpose. Graced by the presence of Industry Minister Harshvardhan Chauhan, women entrepreneurs from across the State shared compelling journeys of transition from struggle to success. Open discussions on access to finance, market linkages and networking transformed the session into a powerful learning forum, reinforcing the message that women in Himachal Pradesh are no longer just participants in economic activity, but emerging leaders of growth.

Running parallel, the Startup Investor Meet and Pitch Sessions provided a launchpad for young innovators and entrepreneurs. Startups presented disruptive ideas, technology-driven solutions and socially impactful business models before investors, attracting keen interest and constructive engagement. The session stood out as a beacon of aspiration for youth determined not to seek jobs, but to create them.

The momentum intensified in the afternoon with the CEO Roundtable Conference and One-to-One Meetings, beginning at 3:00 PM. Held in the distinguished presence of Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, the session brought together leading CEOs, policymakers and investors from across the country. Candid and outcome-oriented discussions were held on industrial policy, MSME challenges, investment facilitation and long-term growth strategies. The dialogue clearly reflected a shared resolve to position Himachal Pradesh as a competitive, investor-friendly and future-ready industrial destination.

Adding a strong market-connect dimension, the One District One Product (ODOP) Buyer–Seller Meet, organized in collaboration with Invest India, linked Himachal Pradesh’s local and traditional products with national and international buyers. The interaction opened new market avenues for artisans and producers, strengthening the State’s “Local to Global” vision.

The day concluded with informal interactions and a networking dinner, fostering collaboration in a relaxed yet purposeful setting. Conversations, partnerships and shared commitments underscored a common sentiment—Day Two of HIM MSME Fest 2026 was not merely a forum for discussion, but a defining chapter in laying the foundation for Himachal Pradesh’s industrial and entrepreneurial future.

HIM MSME FEST–2026: Investor Meet at Shimla Secures 37 Memoranda of Commitment Worth Rs 10,000 Crore

Shimla

As a key highlight of HIM MSME FEST–2026, the Government of Himachal Pradesh organized a high-level Investor Meet at the historic Peterhof, marking a significant milestone in strengthening the State’s industrial and investment ecosystem. The event reaffirmed Himachal Pradesh’s emergence as a preferred destination for sustainable, future-ready investments.

The Investor Meet was chaired by the Chief Minister, Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, and witnessed active participation from leading CEOs and investors from across the country. During the meet, a total of 37 Memoranda of Commitment (MoCs) were signed, involving proposed investments of approximately Rs 10,000 crore across priority sectors. These commitments are expected to significantly enhance industrial output, attract capital inflows, generate employment opportunities, and promote balanced regional development within the State.

Addressing the gathering, the Hon’ble Chief Minister assured investors of full policy, administrative, and institutional support from the State Government. He emphasized that Himachal Pradesh is committed to providing a transparent, investor-friendly, and stable policy environment. The Chief Minister also held constructive and forward-looking discussions with CEOs and investors, exchanging views on investment opportunities, facilitation mechanisms, and long-term industrial growth in the State.

Industry Minister Harshvardhan Chauhan expressed gratitude to the Hon’ble Chief Minister for his progressive and liberal outlook in promoting industrial development in the State. He assured that the Department of Industries would work with full dedication to translate the Chief Minister’s vision into tangible outcomes through robust policy execution, investor facilitation, and continuous monitoring of committed projects.

The proposed investments align with the State’s long-term industrial development strategy and the vision of Atmanirbhar Himachal. Key sectors covered under the MoCs include Food Processing, Pharmaceuticals, Defence Manufacturing, Green Mobility, Solar Energy, and other Renewable Energy segments. These sectors have been identified for their strong growth potential, high value addition, export orientation, and contribution to sustainable and green industrialization.

The Additional Chief Secretary (Industries), R. D. Nazeem, highlighted that the signing of Memoranda of Commitment reflects growing investor confidence in the State’s governance framework and ease of doing business. He reiterated the Government’s commitment to single-window facilitation, time-bound approvals, and effective project implementation to ensure timely operationalization of investment commitments.

The session also witnessed participation from senior officials, including Director of Industries Dr. Yunus and Additional Director Tilak Raj Sharma, who briefed investors on industrial infrastructure, land availability, incentive frameworks, and MSME-friendly policies. Detailed deliberations were held on institutional support and convergence with central government initiatives.

From an economic perspective, the proposed investments are expected to accelerate industrial diversification, strengthen the revenue base, integrate local MSMEs with national and global value chains, and generate large-scale direct and indirect employment.

The Investor Meet under HIM MSME FEST–2026 underscores the Government of Himachal Pradesh’s commitment to industry-led growth, cooperative federalism, and alignment with national industrial priorities. The signing of 37 Memoranda of Commitment amounting to Rs 10,000 crore marks a decisive step toward positioning Himachal Pradesh as a hub for sustainable, innovation-driven, and inclusive industrial development.

CM Sukhu inaugurates HIM MSME Fest-2026

Shimla:

Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu after inaugurating Him MSME Fest 2026 at the Ridge today stated that the Fest Him MSME Fest is not merely an exhibition, but a strong platform of opportunities for thousands of small entrepreneurs, artisans and start-ups of the State promoting HIM Brand products globally.  The event will assist promote the ‘Made in Himachal’ brand and help rural, traditional and local MSME products gain National and international recognition and to realize the aspirations of thousands of small entrepreneurs specially women entrepreneurs, artisans and start-ups across the State.

This will further strengthen the vision of ‘Atmanirbhar’ Himachal by fostering innovation, enterprise and inclusive growth.

The HIM fest, being organised by the Industries department, will conclude on 5th January.

The Chief Minister stated that representatives of reputed national and international companies would visit the State during the fest, providing artisans, weavers and small entrepreneurs an opportunity to directly showcase and market their products to global buyers. He added that a hand-made shawl crafted by artisans of Himachal Pradesh, in display in MSME Fest today, has been included in the ‘Guinness Book of World Records’, giving global recognition to Himachali products thus making the State proud.

Besides, the fest lays emphasis on women entrepreneurship and the One District One Product (ODOP) initiative that will help rural entrepreneurs to gain access to new opportunities, thereby strengthening the rural economy and empowering women. Special emphasis would be laid on the greening of MSMEs and this initiative will play a significant role in making Himachal Pradesh towards becoming a green energy State.

He said that over the past three years, the State Government has held meetings with investors in major industrial hubs such as Dubai, Japan and Mumbai. As a result of these efforts, Memorandums of Understanding involving investment commitments exceeding Rs. 5,000 crore have been signed. In addition, 683 industrial projects worth Rs. 14,000 crore have been approved, which are expected to generate employment opportunities for around 32,000 people.

The Chief Minister stated that with the objective of strengthening MSMEs in rural areas, proposals amounting to Rs. 1,642 crore have been submitted to the Central Government, out of which Rs. 109.34 crore has been approved so far. During the last three years, 107 start-ups have been launched in the State, while 407 start-ups are currently in various stages of establishment.

He said that the Him Fest would prove to be a milestone in connecting Himachal Pradesh’s MSME sector with markets, investments and modern technologies globally as reflects from its theme ‘The Craft of the Hills on the Global Stage’.

The Chief Minister further said that this fest serves as a unique convergence point for emerging and established start-ups, where ideas, innovation and investment would come together. Entrepreneurs will be able to exhibit their products and services, engage directly with investors and buyers, and explore new opportunities for start up business expansion.

On the occasion, he also released the ‘Him Innovation Coffee Book’ and honoured various entrepreneurs. Sh. Sukhu extended his best wishes to all participants taking part in Him MSME Fest-2026.

Earlier, the Chief Minister inaugurated and visited the exhibitions set up by various entrepreneurs and showed keen interest in the displays.

Industries Minister Harshwardhan Chauhan, earlier welcomed the Chief Minister and detailed about the itinerary of three day fest which also involves interact active sessions as well.

He said that sectors such as green mobility, defence, pharmaceuticals, dairy, food processing, artificial intelligence, electronic chips and data centres are being accorded priority to accelerate industrialization vis-à-vis giving push to green industries. Strategic dialogues are being held with leading industry players in these emerging sectors.

Dr. Rajneesh, Development Commissioner for MSME, Ministry of Government of India, lauded the efforts of the state government to promote MSMEs in the state.

Additional Chief Secretary R.D. Nazim gave a detailed presentation on start-ups, industrial development, and various schemes of the department in the state.

Commissioner Industries Dr. Yunus welcomed the Chief Minister and gave a detailed presentation on the MSME Fest. He also apprised him of the industrial development and related activities in the State.

A cultural programme was also organised on the occasion.

Principal Media Advisor to the Chief Minister Naresh Chauhan, Deputy Chief Whip Kewal Singh Pathania, MLAs Malender Rajan and Vivek Sharma, Mayor of Shimla Municipal Corporation Surender Chauhan, Chairman of the State Food Commission Dr. S.P. Katyal, councillors of Shimla Municipal Corporation and senior officers were present on the occasion.

‘YUDH NASHIAN VIRUDH’: ON DAY 308, PUNJAB POLICE NABS 119 DRUG SMUGGLERS WITH 2.2KG HEROIN

CHANDIGARH, January 3:

          Continuing the war against drugs “Yudh Nashian Virudh” waged by Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann to eradicate drug menace from state consecutively for the 308th day, Punjab Police conducted raids at 347 locations on Saturday leading to the arrest of 119 drug smugglers after registration of 103 first information reports (FIRs) across the state. With this, the number of total drug smugglers arrested has reached to 43,095 in 308 days.

          The raids have resulted in recovery of 2.2 kg heroin, 595 intoxicant tablets/capsules and Rs 17,620 drug money from the possession of arrested drug smugglers.

          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.

          Over 120 Police teams, comprising over 1000 police personnel, under the supervision of 74 gazetted officers have conducted 347 raids across the state. Police teams have also checked as many as 355 suspicious persons during the day-long operation.

          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 46 persons to undergo de-addiction and rehabilitation treatment today.