CHANDIGARH, May 10:

Marking a historic turnaround for government schools in the state, Punjab has been recognised as one of India’s best-performing states in school education, with the NITI Aayog Education Quality Report 2026 placing it ahead of Kerala, long considered India’s gold standard in school education, on key foundational learning metrics.

Hailing the achievement as the beginning of ‘Punjab’s Era’ driven by systemic reforms and grassroots dedication, Punjab Education Minister Harjot Singh Bains stated, “This honour belongs to every parent, student and teacher who refused to give up on government schools. This is not a one day miracle. When policy, intent and execution walk together, results follow.”

Sharing details of the report, he said, “Punjab recorded 82% proficiency in language and 78% in mathematics in Class 3, surpassing Kerala’s 75% and 70% respectively. In Class 9 mathematics, Punjab scored 52%, significantly higher than Kerala’s 45%.”

Highlighting the impact of the Punjab Government’s reforms, the minister continued, “Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann led Punjab Government’s post COVID pandemic recovery push through Mission Samarth and the Schools of Eminence programme has yielded tangible results.”

Citing findings from the NITI Aayog report, he added, “99.9% of government schools now have electricity, 99% have functional computers and over 80% are equipped with smart classrooms. Additionally, over 90% of Class 10 students now transition smoothly to Class 11, indicating a sharp decline in dropout rates. The student teacher ratio has also been improved to an ideal 22:1.”

Referring to the report’s observations, Harjot Singh Bains said, “The NITI Aayog report specifically praised Punjab for bridging the urban rural divide in education and ensuring equal opportunities for village students and girls. Punjab’s adoption of global best practices has led to a sharp rise in competitive exam success among government school students. As many as 786 government school students have cleared JEE Main and 1,284 students have qualified for NEET so far.”

Sharing details of teacher training and infrastructure expansion, the Punjab Education Minister stated, “Teacher training programmes in Finland and Singapore, rolled out under the state’s education reforms, have translated into results on the ground. This shows our classrooms can compete with the best. Punjab has recruited 13,000 teachers and staff and rolled out the English Edge Programme for nearly 3 lakh students, besides establishing 118 Schools of Eminence.”

“With the right policy, intent and performance, quality education is inevitable. Our teachers have proved it,” Harjot Singh Bains added, while noting that, “NITI Aayog has now validated what the state has been seeing on the ground. Government school children are not just catching up, they are leading.”

SANGRUR; 30th April 2026:

Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann on Thursday laid out a comprehensive roadmap for sustainable agriculture and long-term water conservation, calling upon farmers across Punjab to shift decisively towards canal-based irrigation and reduce excessive dependence on groundwater.

Interacting with villagers during his visit to his native village Satauj, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann underlined that Punjab’s future is inseparably tied to its water resources and that preserving them is both an urgent necessity and a collective responsibility. “Punjab’s very existence is intrinsically linked to its water, and preserving it is not merely a policy priority but a moral responsibility,” CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, while announcing that canal water will be made available from May 1 itself for the upcoming paddy season, marking a significant shift from conventional irrigation schedules.

He added, “This is the first time in Punjab’s history that canal water is being released from May 1 to benefit farmers ahead of the paddy sowing season.”

Highlighting the scale of the initiative, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said that 21,000 cusecs of water has already been released into the canal network to facilitate early irrigation. “We are committed to ensuring that every single drop of water is conserved and utilized efficiently,” he stated.

Reaffirming Punjab’s rights over its water, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “Punjab has neither shared any water with other states nor allowed any flow towards Pakistan, ensuring that the entire allocation is utilized for the benefit of our farmers.” He pointed to the alarming depletion of groundwater due to decades of over-extraction and stressed the need for an immediate shift in approach.

“Groundwater is a precious and finite resource that must be preserved for future generations. The time has come for a collective shift in mindset. Canal water is not just an alternative, it is the sustainable future of Punjab’s agriculture,” CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, urging farmers to reduce reliance on tube-wells.

Detailing the government’s efforts, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “Since March 2026, ₹6,700 crore has been spent on irrigation projects across Punjab, with approximately 14,000 kilometers of pipelines and watercourses laid to ensure efficient water distribution and minimize losses.” He added that before the current paddy season, an additional 4,000 kilometers of watercourses and 3,000 kilometers of pipelines will become operational.

“The 21,000 cusecs of water being released will also help test these systems, identify bottlenecks, and address deficiencies. The scale of this infrastructure development is unprecedented and reflects our commitment to modernising Punjab’s irrigation network,” CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said.

Underscoring the magnitude of the effort, the Chief Minister noted, “The volume of water being released is equivalent to two Bhakra canals, which will provide immense relief to farmers and significantly reduce dependence on groundwater.” He further added that the initiative will aid groundwater recharge through dedicated schemes, ensuring long-term sustainability.

“It is not just about the current crop cycle, it is about securing the future of Punjab’s agriculture and ensuring that coming generations inherit a sustainable ecosystem,” he said.

Expressing a deep personal connection, the Chief Minister said, “This is my village, my people. I know everyone here personally, and that makes this visit even more special.” He appealed directly to villagers, stating, “Do not extract excessive groundwater through tube-wells. Every drop saved today will safeguard our tomorrow.”

Highlighting further measures, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said that groundwater recharge points have been established at intervals of every 20 meters along canal networks to enhance natural replenishment of underground water reserves.

On the legislative front, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann described the passage of the Jaagat Jot Sri Guru Granth Sahib Satkar (Amendment) Bill, 2026 as a historic step. “This law ensures stricter punishment for acts of sacrilege and sends a clear message that any attempt to desecrate sacred texts will not be tolerated under any circumstances,” he said. He added, “Such acts are not merely crimes against religion but offenses against humanity, often aimed at disturbing peace and harmony.”

“With this law in place, those found guilty will face exemplary punishment. It will act as a strong deterrent and ensure that such heinous acts are not repeated,” CM Bhagwant Singh Mann stated, while reaffirming that the teachings of Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji continue to guide society towards righteousness and unity.

Announcing another major reform, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “The Punjab Government has taken a historic decision to shift high-tension electricity wires passing through agricultural fields underground.” He informed that the project is currently in the execution phase and will soon begin as a pilot initiative.

“This will eliminate risks to human life, prevent crop damage, and remove constraints on agricultural operations. It will be a game-changer for farmers,” CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, adding that the pilot will begin from his native village, covering around 413 tube-wells and 1,100 electricity poles spread across 2,000 acres.

Reiterating the broader vision, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “Our goal is clear, to empower farmers, conserve natural resources, and build a prosperous and sustainable Punjab. Every decision taken by the Punjab Government is guided by the welfare of our people and the legacy we leave for future generations.”

“Our Government is committed to the well-being of every section of society and no stone is being left unturned to achieve this,” CM Bhagwant Singh Mann added.

Chandigarh, April 26, 2026: Sanjay Tandon who is the Chairman of Chandigarh Administration’s Standing Committee of Administrator’s Advisory Council on Sports Management has said that all necessary assistance would be extended to the Roller Skating Federation of India and the Chandigarh Roller Skating Federation for hosting the upcoming 21st Asian Roller Skating Championship in the Tricity.  Tandon said, “All help will be provided to federations for organising the Asian Roller Skating Championship”. He further informed that discussions have already been held with the Hon’ble Governor of Punjab and Administrator of Chandigarh in this regard. Tandon made these remarks while addressing a gathering after inaugurating the 3rd India Skate Games along with Mahender Singh, Joint Director Sports. Notably, the 21st Asian Roller Skating Championship is slated to take place in Chandigarh in 2027.

Highlighting the Administration’s commitment, Tandon noted that any required infrastructure upgrades or new facilities for roller skating would be undertaken to ensure the successful conduct of the Asian Championship. The Governor of Punjab has also conveyed strong interest and support for hosting the prestigious event, reinforcing Chandigarh’s emergence as a growing hub for roller sports in India, Tandon added.

Meanwhile, the 3rd India Skate Games has drawn nearly 600 skaters from across the country.  The multi-discipline event features competitions in rink hockey (roller hockey), inline hockey, roller derby, alpine skating and downhill skating.

Tandon assured the skating community of full support from the Chandigarh Administration for the growth of roller sports in the region. Tulsi Ram Agarwal, President of the Roller Skating Federation of India, was also present at the event. 

Chandigarh

The Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education & Research (PGIMER), Chandigarh, concluded its fortnight-long SwachhataPakhwada 2026 (1st to 15th April 2026) with a vibrant Awards Ceremony held at the Institute. The valedictory function celebrated the collective contribution of the PGIMER fraternity towards the nationwide mission of cleanliness, hygiene and infection-free healthcare environments.
Prof. R.K. Ratho, Dean (Academics), PGIMER Chandigarh, was the Chief Guest on the occasion, while Prof. Vipin Koushal, Medical Superintendent, PGIMER Chandigarh, graced the event as the Guest of Honour. The ceremony was attended in large numbers by Faculty Members, Resident Doctors, Nursing Officers, Sanitation and Housekeeping Staff, Security Personnel and other Healthcare Workers of the Institute.
Address by the Chief Guest
In his address, Prof. R.K. Ratho, Dean (Academics), emphasised the pivotal role of Swachhata in preventing the spread of infection. Drawing from his rich experience in the field of Virology, he highlighted how simple practices such as hand hygiene, appropriate segregation of biomedical waste, surface disinfection and environmental cleanliness form the cornerstone of infection prevention and control within any healthcare facility. He remarked that hospital-acquired infections continue to be a significant public health challenge, and a clean environment is not a luxury but a fundamental prerequisite for patient safety and staff well-being. He congratulated the Nodal Team and every category of worker for making Swachhata a shared institutional value at PGIMER.
Address by the Guest of Honour
Prof. Vipin Koushal, Medical Superintendent, addressed the gathering on the broader role of Swachhata in everyday life. He stressed that cleanliness is not a one-time activity but a continuous way of life — at home, in the workplace, and in the community. He urged every member of the PGIMER family to carry the spirit of SwachhataPakhwada beyond the fortnight and to become ambassadors of cleanliness in their neighbourhoods. He specifically acknowledged the contribution of the sanitation and housekeeping staff, calling them the “foundation on which a clean hospital stands”.

Overview of Pakhwada Activities by the Nodal Officer
Dr. Vijay Tadia, Nodal Officer, SwachhataPakhwada 2026, presented a comprehensive overview of the fortnight-long activities organised across the Institute. He informed the gathering that the Pakhwada was structured as a series of thematic days, each designed to engage a different section of the hospital community and to translate the theme of “Swachh Aspataal, Surakshit Rogi” (Clean Hospital, Safe Patient) into visible action on the ground. Key activities during the Pakhwada included:

• Swachhata Shapath (Cleanliness Pledge): The Pakhwada was inaugurated on 1st April 2026 with a formal pledge administered to faculty, residents, nursing officers, sanitation staff and administrative personnel, reaffirming their commitment to a clean and hygienic workplace.
• Awareness Rally and Human Chain: A Walkathon and Ploggingevent were organised across the hospital campus with banners and placards on hand hygiene, waste segregation and “Do Gaz Safai, SabkiBhalai”.
• Deep Cleaning of OPDs, Wards and Hostels: Special deep-cleaning drives were carried out in Out-Patient Departments, in-patient wards, operation theatres, laboratories, hostels and common areas, with a focus on high-touch surfaces.
• Biomedical Waste Management Training: Sensitisation sessions and hands-on demonstrations were conducted for resident doctors, nursing officers, Sanitation and housekeeping staff on correct colour-coded segregation of biomedical waste.
• Hand Hygiene Campaign: Interactive hand hygiene demonstrations were held in different areas, to reinforce the WHO “My 5 Moments for Hand Hygiene”.
• Poster, Slogan and Essay Competitions: Competitions on the themes of cleanliness, infection prevention and environmental sustainability were organised for students, residents, nursing officers, Sanitary attendants, Housekeeping attendants and the children of the Welfare Colony.
• Nukkad Natak (Street Play) and Awareness Skits:Sanitary attendants and Housekeeping attendants presented street plays, spreading messages of personal hygiene, clean surroundings and safe sanitation practices.
• Plantation Drive and Green Campus Initiative: Saplings were planted across identified green zones of the campus, reinforcing the link between a clean environment and a healthy ecosystem.
• Single-Use Plastic Elimination Drive: A focused drive was conducted to identify and phase out single-use plastics in canteens, cafeterias and office areas of the Institute.
• Cleanliness Drive in the Welfare Colony: Staff quarters and residential areas of the Welfare Colony were covered under special cleanliness, vector-control and awareness activities, with active participation from resident families.
• Health Talks and Awareness Sessions for Sanitation Staff: Dedicated sessions were held for sanitation and housekeeping workers on personal protective equipment (PPE), needle-stick injury prevention, vaccination and occupational health.
• Quiz on Infection Prevention and Control: An inter-departmental quiz was conducted for residents and nursing officers on topics ranging from hospital hygiene to antimicrobial stewardship.
• Best Worker Award: The awards were given to SwachhataKarmaogis for their contribution in keeping the Swachhta across the Institute.
• Safai Mitra Suraksha Shivir: A preventive health camp was organised for Sanitary Attendants and Hospital Attendants. More than 500 Sanitary Attendants and Hospital Attendants attended the Shivir over a period of two days.
•

Distribution of Swachhata Awards
Swachhata Awards were conferred upon the winners of the various competitions conducted during the Pakhwada, including the Poster, Slogan, Essay and Quiz competitions, and the “Swachhata Champion” recognitions. The winners came from across the institutional community — faculty members, resident doctors, nursing officers, paramedical staff and students — reflecting the truly collaborative spirit of the Pakhwada.
In a particularly heartening moment of the ceremony, awards were presented to Sanitation and Housekeeping Staff in recognition of their invisible yet indispensable daily contribution, and to the thosewho enthusiastically participated in the cleanliness drives and awareness activities in their residential areas. The Security Guards of the Institute were also specially felicitated for their role in maintaining order, discipline and hygienic conduct at entry points, OPDs and other critical zones during the Pakhwada. This inclusive recognition underlined the message that cleanliness is a shared responsibility, and that every pair of hands — from the Dean’s office to the gate and from the wards to the colony lanes — matters equally in building a Swachh Aspataal.

Message from the Director
In his message on the occasion, Prof. Vivek Lal, Director, PGIMER Chandigarh, extended his heartfelt congratulations to the entire PGIMER fraternity for the successful conduct of SwachhataPakhwada 2026. He observed that in a healthcare institution of the scale of PGIMER, where thousands of patients are cared for each day, cleanliness is not merely an aesthetic concern but a direct determinant of patient safety, clinical outcomes and institutional credibility.
“A clean hospital is the first line of treatment. Every hand washed, every surface disinfected, every bin correctly segregated is, in effect, a silent act of healing. Swachhata at PGIMER is therefore not a fortnight-long campaign — it is a year-round discipline and a shared duty of every member of this Institute, from faculty and residents to nursing officers, sanitation staff, security personnel and the residents of our Welfare Colony.”
— Prof. Vivek Lal, Director, PGIMER Chandigarh
The Director specifically appreciated the sanitation and housekeeping staff, the security personnel and the Welfare Colony residents for their wholehearted participation, noting that the truest measure of the Pakhwada’s success lay in the inclusive spirit it had fostered across the Institute. He reiterated PGIMER’s commitment to institutionalising Swachhata as a continuous mission aligned with the national vision of a Swachh and Swasth Bharat, and urged every member of the PGIMER family to carry forward the learnings and habits of the Pakhwada into their everyday working lives.
Vote of Thanks
The ceremony concluded with a formal vote of thanks, acknowledging the guidance of the Director, PGIMER, the leadership of the Dean (Academics) and the Medical Superintendent, and the tireless efforts of theKarmayogis. Special thanks were extended to every faculty members, resident doctors, nursing officers, paramedical staff, sanitation workers, housekeeping staff, security guards and Welfare Colony resident who contributed to making SwachhataPakhwada 2026 a resounding success.
PGIMER reaffirmed its pledge to carry forward the values of Swachhata beyond the Pakhwada — as a year-round discipline woven into the daily functioning of the Institute, in line with the vision of a Swachh and Swasth Bharat.

CHANDIGARH, 6 April 2026:

Reaffirming the zero-tolerance policy against tax evasion under CM Bhagwant Singh Mann, Finance, Planning, Excise and Taxation Minister Harpal Singh Cheema on Monday announced that the Punjab Government has achieved record enforcement outcomes in the financial year 2025–26, marking a decisive shift towards intelligence-led action and robust revenue protection.

Detailing the performance, Minister Harpal Singh Cheema stated, “Driven by the focused and intelligence-led actions of the State Intelligence and Preventive Units, the State Taxation Department imposed massive penalties amounting to ₹1,383.11 crore during the year. Out of this imposed amount, a staggering ₹1,137.85 crore has already been recovered, reflecting a significant leap in enforcement efficiency and revenue realization for Punjab.”

Highlighting the backbone of this success, he added, “Inspection-based enforcement emerged as the primary driver, accounting for ₹1,215.95 crore in penalties and ₹972.15 crore in actual recoveries. Alongside this, road checking operations contributed a solid ₹165.71 crore. This performance marks a multi-fold improvement over FY 2024–25, where inspection enforcement resulted in ₹147.28 crore imposed and ₹41.53 crore recovered, and road checking recoveries stood at ₹157.14 crore. This sharp surge in FY 2025–26 underscores a transformational shift in the state’s capacity for detection, enforcement, and actual financial recovery.”

Underlining the crackdown on fraudulent networks, Minister Harpal Singh Cheema said, “The Taxation Department registered eight FIRs and carried out 15 arrests throughout the year. Two of the most prominent FIRs involved seven individuals and exposed fraudulent transactions worth ₹385 crore. These targeted operations uncovered tax evasion of ₹69.57 crore orchestrated by firms engaged in issuing invoices without the actual supply of goods.”

He added, “Additional FIRs were registered across Bathinda, Mandi Gobindgarh, Ludhiana, and Chandigarh to take decisive action against illegal transport of goods and deceptive billing networks. In one highly significant operation, a Ludhiana-based proprietor was arrested for passing fraudulent Input Tax Credit exceeding ₹9 crore.”

He further stated, “The department’s advanced intelligence network yielded several major detections, including uncovering ₹900 crore of fake billing in gold transactions in Ludhiana, ₹226 crore in illicit coal transactions across Mohali, Kharar, and Kotkapura, and ₹423 crore of bogus billing networks operating in Ludhiana and Mandi Gobindgarh. Furthermore, complex investigations uncovered a ₹200 crore fraud involving the ‘Pet Pooja App,’ highlighting the massive scale and sophisticated nature of modern evasion networks.”

On verification drives, the Minister stated, “Focused verification exercises led to the identification of 1,579 suspicious dealers. Following rigorous checks, 922 of these entities were found to be non-existent and their registrations were subsequently cancelled in close coordination with central authorities.”

Emphasising ITC safeguards, he noted, “Strong Input Tax Credit control measures resulted in ₹244.82 crore being actively blocked and ₹206.64 crore reversed. These proactive steps successfully safeguarded ₹451.46 crore in state funds, alongside an additional ₹19.08 crore realized through direct cash recovery.”

Highlighting intensified field enforcement, he added, “During a special drive conducted simultaneously at Mandi Gobindgarh and Ludhiana, a record 141 vehicles were detained in a single day. The department also strengthened enforcement at railway stations and major transit points, with particular scrutiny on high-risk sectors such as iron and steel, cement, auto parts, tobacco, and metals.”

Crediting institutional and technological strength, Minister Harpal Singh Cheema said, “The role of State Intelligence and Preventive Unit, Tax Intelligence Unit, and the ‘Bill Liao Inaam Pao’ Scheme has been pivotal. The overwhelming success of these enforcement measures has been powered by advanced data analytics, real-time e-way bill tracking, continuous intelligence inputs, and newly developed digital enforcement portals. These technological advancements have enabled swift and highly coordinated action on the ground.”

Reaffirming the Bhagwant Mann Government’s commitment, Minister Harpal Singh Cheema stated, “The performance of FY 2025–26 reflects a transformational shift towards intelligence-led enforcement, significantly strengthening compliance and revenue mobilization across Punjab. Such deterrent actions will continue with even greater intensity to permanently dismantle fraudulent networks, promote genuine business practices, protect honest taxpayers, and safeguard the state’s vital revenues.”

Chandigarh, March 29 – Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini said today that we live in an era where an informed public observes, understands and makes decisions based on experience. The people of Punjab first gave the Congress party, and then the Aam Aadmi Party, a chance. Both made grand promises, but today, every section of Punjab is asking- Where have those promises gone, and where is the change that was promised?

Addressing a gathering in Kurali, Punjab, on Sunday, the Chief Minister said the Aam Aadmi Party claims to represent honesty. Yet under their rule, issues like drug addiction, crime, lawlessness, financial crises, and deteriorating law and order remain rampant. In contrast, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, is guided by the principle of “sabka saath, sabka vishwas, sabka prayas” — everyone’s support, everyone’s trust, and everyone’s effort.

Sh Nayab Singh Saini asked, “How long can politics be built on lies? When the winds of truth blow, the picture will change.” He emphasized that Punjab needs a double-engine government — one that not only makes promises but also has the capacity to fulfill them. Leadership is needed that is fearless in decision-making, prioritizes public interests, and works for the nation.

“Now, give the Bharatiya Janata Party a chance. I assure you that we will honor your trust and take Punjab to new heights of development,” he said. He added that the upcoming elections will shape Punjab’s future — a choice for the prosperity of every farm and business, for employment opportunities, and for the future of children.

The Chief Minister highlighted that each vote will form the foundation of this transformation. Public support will strengthen the BJP, and a strong double-engine BJP government will set Punjab on a path of renewed growth. He concluded by affirming that the BJP has clear policies, unwavering intentions, and a commitment to development. Applying this model in Punjab will make the state prosperous, secure, and progressive once again.

The Chief Minister said that the work of the double-engine government in Haryana over the past 11 years tells a story of positive change in the lives of ordinary people. The government ensured transparent governance, making certain that the benefits of various schemes reached all citizens without discrimination. By eliminating the system of “kharchi parchi,” nearly 200,000 youth were given jobs based on merit. Today, the youth of Haryana proudly acknowledge that they are reaping the rewards of their hard work.

Nayab Singh Saini highlighted the launch of the Deendayal Lado Laxmi Yojana, aimed at providing economic and social security to women and girls in Haryana. Under this scheme, financial assistance of ₹2,100 is provided to beneficiaries. To date, ₹834 crore has been disbursed to 956,000 women and girls. In contrast, the Punjab government has failed to release the promised funds to women, and even after more than four years, it remains indifferent to their needs.

The Chief Minister said that under the government’s initiative, poor women in Haryana are receiving gas cylinders for just ₹500 per month to run their kitchens. Under this scheme, approximately ₹243 crore has been deposited into the bank accounts of around 14.38 lakh eligible women across the state.

He added that farmers’ welfare remains central to government policies. All 24 crops in Haryana are being procured at the minimum support price. So far, ₹164,000 crore has been deposited into the accounts of 12 lakh farmers for crop purchases. Over the past 11 years, ₹16,160 crore has been provided to farmers as compensation for crop loss under the PMFBY. Additionally, under the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi Yojana, ₹7,562 crore has been deposited in 22 installments into the accounts of approximately 20.18 lakh farmers.

The Chief Minister further said that crop residue management machines are being provided to farmers at a 50 percent subsidy to support stubble management. To date, 1,10,767 machines have been subsidized. He also highlighted the Bhavantar Bharpai Yojana, designed to protect farmers from fluctuations in market prices. This scheme covers 21 horticultural crops, including 14 vegetables, two spices, and five fruits. So far, incentives totaling ₹177 crore have been directly transferred to the bank accounts of 38,334 farmers under this initiative.