Category Archives: News

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

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.

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

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.

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

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.

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

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.

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

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.

Haryana Government Mandates Video Conferencing in Quasi-Judicial Proceedings

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.

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

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.

EM BAINS CONGRATULATES STUDENTS ON IMPRESSIVE CLASS-X RESULTS

Chandigarh, May 16:

Punjab School Education Minister S. Harjot Singh Bains extended warm congratulations to students on their outstanding performance in the Class-X board examinations, the results of which were announced today by the Punjab School Education Board (PSEB).

Applauding the top scorers in Class X board exams, the Education Minister said Akshnoor Kaur of Sant Mohan Das Memorial Senior Secondary School, Kot Sukhia (Faridkot), topped the state with perfect 650/650 marks, followed by Ritinderdeep Kaur of Baba Farid Public Senior Secondary School, Chattiana (Sri Muktsar Sahib) and Arshdeep Kaur of Ram Sarup Memorial Senior Secondary School, Chaunda (Malerkotla), secured second and third spot respectively.

S. Harjot Singh Bains expressed happiness and contentment over the performance of girls, while praising their dedication and commitment to academic excellence and their achievement sets a shining example for their peers to follow. Notably, girl students excelled overall in the 10th results by achieving a remarkable pass percentage of 96.85%, outshining their male counterparts (94.50%).

The Education Minister S. Harjot Singh Bains mentioned that a total of 2,77,746 students appeared for the Class X examinations and 2,65,548 students have been passed (95.61%). The State Government schools witnessed a 95.47% pass percentage, with 1,76,605 students succeeding.

The Education Minister attributed this remarkable feat to the students’ dedication, hard work, and passion, while appreciating the crucial support provided by their parents and teachers.

WILL MAKE EVERY EFFORT TO SAVE OUR COMING GENERATIONS FROM SCOURGE OF DRUGS: ARVIND KEJRIWAL

Lakhanpal (Jalandhar), May 16:

 Former Delhi Chief Minister and National Convener of the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) Arvind Kejriwal on Friday said that the state government led by Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann will make every effort to save our coming generations from falling prey to the menace of drugs.

The former Delhi Chief Minister said that it is elated to learn that the backbone of the drug has been broken for which Punjab Police needs a pat. He said that the manner in which this anti-drug campaign has been launched finds no parallel in contemporary Indian history. Arvind Kejriwal said that the properties constructed from the drug money have been razed to dust by the bulldozers.

The National Convener of AAP said that the previous regimes not only patronized the drug dealers but they themselves carried out the business in their government vehicles. However, he said that the Bhagwant Singh Mann led state government is acting strictly against drug menace and it will not allow its youth to fall prey to this menace. Arvind Kejriwal said that now Nasha Mukti Yatra has been embarked in the state and every village will be covered under the ambitious program.

Soliciting fulsome support of Punjabis in war against drugs, the former Delhi Chief Minister said that if three crore Punjabis rise in unison against the menace of drugs then the problem of drugs will be wiped out in 24 hours. He said that a handful of drug smugglers cannot stand before the might of the Punjabis and they will be buried beneath the ground. Arvind Kejriwal said that not only snapping of drug supply lines but the state government is also focusing on rehabilitation of the drug victims adding that this problem can be resolved only with the active support of common man.

The National Convener of AAP said that the state government will follow a twin policy of checking the drug smuggling on one hand and channelizing the positive energy of youth on the other to tackle this menace. He said that Punjab will be soon out of the clutches of the drug menace and will emerge as the frontrunner state in the country. Arvind Kejriwal said that this is the need of hour to ensure that Punjab continues to shine across the globe and lead the world in every arena.

The former Delhi Chief Minister congratulated Bhagwant Singh Mann led state government for the resounding success of Yudh Nasheyan Virudh. He said that it is heartening to see that the villages that were hotspots of drugs are now turning drug free due to concerted efforts of the state government. Arvind Kejriwal said that contrary to earlier times when drug lords were shielded by the state, now 10,000 drug smugglers have been arrested out of which 8500 are big fishes.

The National Convener of AAP said that the war against drugs will be taken to ground level and interactions will be held in all the around 13000 villages of the state. He said that in order to channelize the unbounded energy of the youth in a positive manner, the state government will construct stadiums in every village of the state adding that 3000 gyms will be constructed in 3000 big villages of the state to promote sports in the state in a big way. Arvind Kejriwal said that the state has already given around 54000 jobs to the youth in the state and now foolproof planning has been made to ensure employment to youth in every village.

PROMOTIONS IN PR DEPARTMENT; TWO OFFICERS PROMOTED AS JOINT DIRECTORS, SIX AS DEPUTY DIRECTORS

Chandigarh, May 16:

Punjab Information and Public Relations Department today promoted eight officers. Two Deputy Directors have been promoted as Joint Directors, while five Information and Public Relations Officers (IPROs) and one Art Executive have been promoted as Deputy Directors.

The appointment orders for the eight promoted officers were issued today following approval from Information and Public Relations Minister S. Harjot Singh Bains.

These promotions were made following departmental promotion committees’ meetings held on May 8. As per the appointment orders issued today, Joint Director Mr. Ishwinder Singh Grewal has been posted at the head office in Chandigarh, while Mr. Manvinder Singh has been appointed as Joint Director Press/Chief Minister with additional charge as Joint Director Border Range Amritsar.

Similarly, among the six promoted Deputy Directors, Ms. Ruchi Kalra has been posted to Bathinda, Mr. Rashim Verma to the head office with additional charge of Sri Anandpur Sahib, Mr. Navdeep Singh Gill to the head office in Chandigarh, Mr. Prabhdeep Singh Kauldhar to the head office with additional charge of Sangrur, Mr. Hakam Thaper to Jalandhar and Mr. Hardeep Singh to the head office.

Later, the newly promoted officers joined the department and reported to Secretary, Information and Public Relations Mr. Ramvir. They expressed their gratitude to the Information and Public Relations Minister and senior officials.