Category Archives: News

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ARVIND KEJRIWAL AND CM INFLICTS FINAL BLOW TO DRUG MENACE, FLAG OFF MASS AWARENESS CAMPAIGN AGAINST DRUGS

Ludhiana, April 2-

Inflicting final blow to drug menace, the Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann and former Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Wednesday flagged over mass awareness campaign against drug menace after administering oath to fight against malady to thousands of youth.

“This is a decisive crusade against drugs and we all pledge that we will eliminate the curse of drugs from state” said the Chief Minister while addressing the gathering here in a march past aimed at creating awareness against the menace of drugs.

The Chief Minister said that enough is enough and now the state government will not sit idly and watch the smugglers bloom at the cost of the dead bodies and pyres of the drug victims. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that the state government has already snapped the supply line of drugs and big fishes involved in this heinous crime have been put behind the bars. He said that for the first time the property of the drug smugglers acquired illegally are being destroyed/ confiscated by the state government so that it acts as a deterrent for others.

The Chief Minister said that the drug problem has become serious in the state as due to the lackluster performance of the previous regimes it has now entered our veins. However, Bhagwant Singh Mann said that they are fortunate to have got the guidance of National Convener of the Aam Aadmi Party Arvind Kejriwal, who apart from revolutionizing several sectors, also has the credit of eradicating several maladies from Delhi. He envisioned that under the continuous guidance of former Delhi Chief Minister, Punjab will soon be free from this menace of drugs.

The Chief Minister said that war against drugs has to be transformed into a mass movement as it is not only the work of Police but entire civil society too. He said that it is heartening that people are coming forward to take part in this campaign and anti-drug resolutions are being passed in several villages. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that the state government has issued a Whatsapp helpline number 9779100200 for seeking the support of the people in this war.

The Chief Minister asked the people to share any information pertaining to the drug smugglers operative in their area or city on this Whatsapp number. He said that the identity of the caller will be kept secret and will not be disclosed to anyone. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that fulsome support and cooperation of the people is imperative in this ambitious war against drugs due to which people should support this move in a big way.

The Chief Minister said that Punjab Police has a glorious legacy of serving the country by making countless sacrifices. He said that apart from discharging its core duty of maintaining law and order, the Punjab Police has always safeguarded the interests of the country and its people. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that now the Punjab Police is playing a vanguard role in wiping out the menace of drugs from the state.

      The Chief Minister said that the need of the hour is that the common man plays a proactive role in the war against drugs. He said that now the time has come when everyone should rise against the scourge of drugs by decimating a handful of smugglers who are ruining the generations of the state for minting money. Bhagwant Singh Mann urged every resident to be a soldier in this war against drugs so that Punjab is made completely drug free.

DON’T REST UNTIL A SINGLE OUNCE OF DRUG IS PRESENT IN PUNJAB: KEJRIWAL TO YOUTH

Ludhiana, April 2-

National Convener of Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) and former Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal called upon the youth of the state to support a decisive war against drug menace until Punjab is made drug free.

Addressing the gathering before flagging off the awareness march against drugs, the former Chief Minister of Delhi said that the youth has a huge role to play in wiping out the menace of drugs from the state. He said that if this curse is not wiped out then it will transform into a major evil and result in major damage to the state and its generations. Arvind Kejriwal urged the youth to say no to drugs as this menace will ruin their life and that of the family.

The National Convener of AAP said that in Punjab the previous governments had patronized drug cartels in the state and even their top leaders were involved in it. He said that for the sake of minting illegal money these greedy leaders had patronized the drug menace in the state thereby ruining our generations. Arvind Kejriwal said that God and people of the state will never forgive these political leaders for this sin and they will be punished for this misdeed.

The former Delhi Chief Minister said that the state government has done exemplary work in the last 30 days adding that even the huge palaces built from drug money amassed by these smugglers are being destroyed. He said that none of the drug smugglers will be spared and they will be put behind the bars adding that severest of severe action will be taken against them. Arvind Kejriwal said that security agencies are playing a laudable role by cracking down heavily on the drug peddlers by nabbing them and cutting the supply line of drugs.

The National Convener of Aam Aadmi Party further said that properties of the drug peddlers are being confiscated/ demolished to ensure that people involved in this heinous crime get exemplary punishment. Arvind Kejriwal said that the state government has adopted a zero tolerance policy against drugs and a crusade has been launched against this menace. Striking an emotional chord with the youth, he said that if any friend or family member of the youth is taking drugs then it should be reported to authorities for timely prevention.

The former Delhi Chief Minister said that it is imperative to check the spread of drugs amongst the youth and save our future generations. He asked the youth to take the responsibility of their respective village and locality to check the menace of drugs by calling on Whatsapp helpline number 9779100200, to inform about any movement of drug smugglers in their area. Arvind Kejriwal asked the youth to pledge that they will not take drugs, they will not allow anyone to sell drugs and they will support the campaign against drugs.

The former Chief Minister of Delhi said that in order to treat drug victims, the government is running an OutPatient Opioid Assisted Treatment Program (OOAT) for drug de-addiction services at the OPD level. He said that rehabilitation centres are being established across the state to rehabilitate the drug victims. Arvind Kejriwal said that in order to wean away youth from the menace of drugs, playgrounds and gyms are being opened in every village of the state

BIKRAM MAJITHIA’S SECURITY SCALED DOWN, NOT WITHDRAWN: PUNJAB POLICE CLARIFIES

CHANDIGARH, April 2:

The Punjab Police on Wednesday refuted reports claiming the complete withdrawal of security for Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) leader Bikram Singh Majithia, clarifying that his security cover had only been scaled down based on a reassessment of threat perception.

An official spokesperson said that the adjustment was made following the latest recommendations of the Security Review Committee.

“Security for any prominent individual is reviewed periodically based on threat assessment. Accordingly, it is either increased or decreased,” the spokesperson said, while adding that Bikram Majithia still retains sufficient security, including an escort vehicle and an adequate number of gunmen, ensuring his safety as per protocol.

Meanwhile, officials reiterated that such decisions are routine and based solely on threat perception reports.

Chief Secretary reviews arrangements for Prime Minister’s visit with officers

Chandigarh , April 1 – Prime Minister,  Sh Narendra Modi will inaugurate air  travel services from Maharaja Agrasen Airport Hisar on April 14, marking the birth anniversary of Bharat Ratna Dr. B.R. Ambedkar. On the same day,the Prime Minister will also lay the foundation stone for a new 800 MW unit at the Deenbandhu Chaudhary Chhotu Ram Thermal Power Plant in Yamunanagar. 

The Chief Secretary, Sh Anurag Rastogi reviewed the preparations for the Prime Minister’s visit in a meeting held on Tuesday. The meeting was attended by Chief Principal Secretary to the Chief Minister, Sh  Rajesh Khullar, Principal Secretary  to Chief Minister,  Sh Arun Gupta, senior officers from various departments.

Sh Anurag Rastogi directed the officers to ensure robust security and cleanliness arrangements for the Prime Minister’s visit. He also directed them to ensure an uninterrupted power supply and adequate provisions for drinking water at the venues.  Considering large public turnout, Chief Secretary stressed the need for effective traffic management to ensure public face no inconvenience.

Strict action taken against illegal mining in Yamuna Nagar; 1692 vehicles checked, one vehicle seized, Fines of Rs. 4.32 lakh was imposed

Chandigarh, April 1- Following the directions of Director General, Mining and Geology Department, Sh. K.M Pandurang, the Mining Department is continuously taking action against illegal mining and transportation in the state. The district administration and mining department in Yamuna Nagar checked 1,692 vehicles. As a result, one vehicle was seized, and fines amounting to Rs.4.32 lakh were imposed on seven vehicles. 

Sharing information in this regard a spokesperson from the mining department shared that the Haryana government is taking strict action against those involved in illegal mining. To ensure this, teams have been formed at various levels for regular monitoring. The administration is committed to curbing illegal mining and transportation in the district, and continuous efforts are being made in this direction. 

The spokesperson said 946 vehicles were checked by the teams of SDM Chhachhrauli. Similarly, the teams under SDM Jagadhri checked 169 vehicles, seizing one vehicle and imposing a fine of Rs. 4.26 lakh. The teams led by SDM Radaur checked 466 vehicles, issuing challans to seven vehicles and collecting fines totaling Rs. 6,000. Besides this, the team under SDM Byaspur checked 111 vehicles. District’s SDMs, police, and mining department officers are conducting round-the-clock inspections, the spokesperson added.

The administration is monitoring illegal mining near the Yamuna River and other areas in the Yamunanagar district. Teams appointed by the district administration are actively checking mineral-vehicles on the roads to ensure they have valid e-Rawanna bills. Strict action is being taken against the culprits.  

CM seeks blessings at Chandi Mata Temple 

Chandigarh, April 1 – Haryana Chief Minister,Sh. Nayab Singh Saini visited the Chandi Mata Temple on Tuesday to seek blessings for the health and bright future of the people of the state. 

On the occasion of Navratri, the Chief Minister visited the Chandi Mata Temple in Panchkula to offer prayers. During his visit, he extended his greetings and best wishes for Navratri to the people of Haryana and expressed hope that, with the blessings of Mata Rani, the state would continue to progress rapidly. After this, the Chief Minister reached Yagnyashala and performed Havan. 

MLA, Kalka, Smt. Shakti Rani Sharma, Mayor, Sh. Kulbhushan Goyal, former Vidhan Sabha Speaker, Sh. Gian Chand Gupta and other dignitaries also remained present.

Government makes robust arrangements for wheat procurement: CM

Chandigarh, April 1 – Haryana Chief Minister, Sh. Nayab Singh Saini said that the government has made comprehensive arrangements for wheat procurement. All necessary preparations have been completed in the Mandis to ensure farmers do not face any difficulties.

The Chief Minister said this while interacting with the media persons in Panchkula on Tuesday.

Responding to a question, the Chief Minister said that all district officers have been directed to make arrangements for wheat procurement. The government will ensure that farmers do not face any problems while selling their crops.

The Chief Minister said that farmers’ welfare is a top priority for the state government. Proper arrangements for gunny bags, cleanliness, and drinking water have been made in the Mandis. To ensure timely payments, guidelines have been issued to make payments to farmers within 48 to 72 hours after the procurement at the Minimum Support Price (MSP). This year, the central government has set the wheat price at Rs. 2,425 per quintal, he added.  

Repair work of all damaged roads should be completed by June 15 – Chief Minister

Chandigarh, April 1 – Haryana Chief Minister Sh Nayab Singh Saini has directed officials to complete the repair work of all damaged roads in the state by June 15. A special campaign should be launched to ensure that tendering and other necessary processes are completed within 15 days, enabling high-quality road repairs before the upcoming monsoon season.

The Chief Minister issued these instructions while chairing a review meeting of the Haryana State Agricultural Marketing Board here today. Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare Minister Sh Shyam Singh Rana was also present.

Expressing dissatisfaction over the condition of roads, the Chief Minister instructed officials to identify and initiate repairs within 15 days to provide relief to the general public. He further directed that roads transferred to the Zila Parishads in five districts should also be repaired within the stipulated timeframe, ensuring strict quality standards. He said that any negligence or laxity in road repairs would not be tolerated.

It is noteworthy that during the Vidhan Sabha budget session, Chief Minister Sh Nayab Singh Saini had announced that all roads in Haryana would be renovated within six months, ensuring that no road in the state remains in poor condition.

The Chief Minister also called for expediting road widening projects. He directed officials to work towards increasing the width of roads maintained by the Haryana State Agricultural Marketing Board from 12 feet to 18 feet, considering the growing traffic volume. In addition, he stressed the need for proper repair and maintenance of roads inside all Mandis to facilitate smooth movement for farmers bringing their produce.

During the meeting, it was informed that out of 4,313 roads maintained by the Haryana State Agricultural Marketing Board, 465 roads are 18 feet wide. The widening work for 34 more roads is in progress, while the tendering process is underway for an additional 35 roads covering 118 km.

Reviewing the progress of CM announcements, the Chief Minister instructed officials to ensure timely execution of all commitments. He urged all departments to work in close coordination to facilitate smooth implementation of development projects.

While giving instructions regarding the announcements made in the budget, the Chief Minister said that the concerned departments should make plans and work at a fast pace within the stipulated time frame ensuring 100% execution of all schemes on the ground for maximum public benefit.

During the review, he also issued necessary guidelines regarding key projects, including the Apple Market in Pinjore, the upcoming Flower Market in Gurugram, the India International Horticulture Market in Gannaur, and the Atal Kisan Mazdoor Canteen.

Additional Chief Secretary Agriculture and Farmers Welfare Department, Sh Raja Shekhar Vundru, Commissioner and Secretary Development and Panchayat Department, Dr. Amit Kumar Agrawal, Additional Principal Secretary to Chief Minister, Dr. Saket Kumar, Chief Administrator Haryana State Agricultural Marketing Board, Sh Mukesh Kumar Ahuja, Director Agriculture, Sh Raj Naraian Kaushik, Director Food Civil Supplies and Consumer Affairs Department, Sh. Rajesh Jogpal, Managing Director HAFED, Sh. Mukul Kumar and other officers were also present in the meeting.

800 MW thermal power plant to be set up in Yamuna Nagar- Anil Vij

Chandigarh, April 1- Haryana Energy, Transport, and Labour Minister, Sh. Anil Vij said that a new 800 MW thermal power plant will be set up in Yamunanagar. Besides this, thermal power plants will also be established in Hisar and Panipat.

Sh. Anil Vij said this while interacting with the media here today.  

He said that adequate arrangements have been made to ensure an adequate power supply during the upcoming summer season. Transformers have been upgraded, and if any transformer gets damaged, arrangements have been made to replace it immediately. He also directed officers to update the information about the availability of transformers online.

Responding to a question regarding electricity rates, Sh. Vij said that there has been no increase in electricity rates in Haryana for the past eight years. The electricity rates are determined by the Haryana Electricity Regulatory Commission, and at present, there is no proposal to increase them. 

In response to another question regarding illegal vehicles, the Transport Minister said that it is a serious problem and he has personally inspected the situation on the roads several times. He directed departmental officers to take appropriate action against illegal vehicles under the law, he added.

He said drug abuse is  a social issue and society as a whole needs to come forward to eliminate it. He said that changing the mindset of those affected by addiction is the key  solution. 

Regarding the increase in toll tax rates, Sh. Vij stated that the central government is working on making the toll plaza system simpler and more efficient. Plans include installing automatic chips to make toll payment easier and more convenient for travelers.

Haryana State Cold Storage Association meets the Chief Minister

Chandigarh, April 1 – A delegation from the Haryana State Cold Storage Association met Haryana Chief Minister Sh Nayab Singh Saini today and expressed their gratitude for his decision to transition the cold storage market fee system from a lump sum to a slab-based structure and also reducing the slab rate as per their storing capacity.

The implementation of the slab-based lump-sum fee system and also reducing the slab rate as per their storing capacity will provide significant relief to small and medium cold storage operators. Under the new system, fees will be based on their storage capacity, which will not only ease the burden on smaller operators but also encourage new investors and entrepreneurs to enter the sector.

It is worth noting that the Haryana State Cold Storage Association had met with Chief Minister Sh Nayab Singh Saini to highlight the challenges posed by the lump sum market fee system. The Chief Minister listened attentively to the association’s representatives and assured them that the issue would be addressed promptly. By amending the market fee system to better align with the industry’s needs, the Chief Minister has demonstrated his government’s commitment to supporting the trade, industry, and agriculture sectors. Under his leadership, the Haryana Government has made several key decisions aimed at promoting transparency and fostering entrepreneurship in trade policies, and this is one such significant step.

The representatives of the Cold Storage Association expressed their gratitude to the Chief Minister, highlighting that this decision reflects his trade- and agriculture-friendly approach. They emphasized that the state government’s move will not only provide relief to small and medium cold storage operators but will also help expand cold storage services across the state. This expansion will offer farmers better facilities for storing their crops, thereby strengthening the agriculture sector.

On this occasion, Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare Minister Sh Shyam Singh Rana, Additional Chief Secretary of the Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare Department Sh Raja Sekhar Vundru, Additional Principal Secretary to the Chief Minister Dr. Saket Kumar, Chief Administrator of the Haryana State Agricultural Marketing Board Sh Mukesh Kumar Ahuja, C.M.E.O. Board Sh Sunil Sharma, President of the Association Sh Baldev Raj Sethi, and other representatives were also present.