*Punjab sets up 24x7 helpline for Punjabis stranded amid Middle East conflict, assures full support: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*

*Call 0172 2260042, 0172 2260043 or WhatsApp +91 94787 79112 for help, Punjab Govt tells families of stranded citizens*

*Urging Govt of India to intervene for safe evacuation of Punjabis trapped in war-hit Gulf region: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*

*Punjab Govt in constant touch with Govt of India to ensure safe, prompt return of stranded Punjabis: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*

*Punjab stands firmly with families of youth & students stuck in Gulf countries during crisis: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*

CHANDIGARH, 2nd March 2026:Amid escalating conflict in parts of the Middle East, Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann on Monday announced a 24x7 helpline to assist stranded Punjabis, asking families to call 0172 2260042, 0172 2260043 or WhatsApp +91 94787 79112 for immediate support. Stating that the state government is in constant touch with the Government of India to ensure their safe and prompt return, he said Punjab will extend full support and cooperation to those affected.

Assuring fulsome support and cooperation to the distressed families of the Punjabis stuck in strife torn Middle East, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann stated, “The state government was constantly in touch with the Government of India (GoI) to ensure safe and prompt return of the people stuck. Due to the outbreak of conflicts in Arab countries, many Punjabis in these nations are facing serious difficulties. The Punjab government has set up a helpline if any person or his family is stranded in these countries they can call on these numbers.”

He assured full backing to those in distress and announced that a dedicated helpline and control room has been set up and will operate 24x7, adding, “People can call 0172 2260042 and 0172 2260043, or send a WhatsApp message to +91 94787 79112, if any kind of help is required.”

Reiterating the government’s commitment, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “We are committed to providing all necessary support and assistance to the stranded people as soon as possible.” Expressing solidarity with the families of the youth and students stuck in Gulf countries, he said, “The state government stands firmly with these families in this hour of crisis.”

He also urged the Government of India to intervene for the safe evacuation of Punjabis stranded in the Middle East, adding that he hopes the Union government will take necessary steps to extend a helping hand to all those trapped in the war hit Gulf region.

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*Punjab Successfully Completes One Year of ‘Yudh Nashean Virudh’; CM Bhagwant Singh Mann Congratulates People for Collective Fight Against Drugs*

*Previous Govts Patronized Drug Trade & Ruined Generations; AAP Govt Took Decisive Action to Dismantle Network: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*

*Our Govt Breaks Backbone of Drug Trade, Recovers ₹16.70 Crore Drug Money in One Year: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*

*36,178 FIRs Registered, Conviction Rate Rises to 88% in 2025 Under Yudh Nashean Virudh: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*

*Zero-Tolerance Policy Against Drugs Transformed Into Mass Movement With People’s Support: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*

*Punjab Govt Will Continue Relentless Fight to Protect Youth From Drug Menace: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*

CHANDIGARH, 2nd March 2026:Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann on Monday congratulated the people of Punjab on the successful completion of one year of ‘Yudh Nashean Virudh’, declaring it as a decisive and unprecedented campaign to make Punjab free from the menace of drugs. Marking the first anniversary of the mass movement launched by the Punjab Government, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said that the campaign has fundamentally altered the fight against narcotics in Punjab by dismantling entrenched networks and ensuring strict enforcement.

In a statement, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “Yudh Nashean Virudh has been the biggest-ever crackdown on the drug network in Punjab. The previous regimes in Punjab had patronized the drug trade, thereby ruining the generations of the state. On the other hand, the Punjab Government has broken the backbone of the drug trade by snapping the pipeline of drugs and putting the big fishes involved in this heinous crime behind the bars.”

Highlighting the scale and impact of the campaign, the Chief Minister stated that a comprehensive and multipronged strategy was formulated to transform this crusade against drugs into a mass movement with the proactive support of the common man. “In the past one year from March 2025 to February 2026, a zero-tolerance policy has been adopted against the drug menace,” he said.

Detailing the action taken under the campaign, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “A total of 36,178 FIRs have been registered against drug smugglers, 51,648 drug traffickers have been arrested, 2,277 kg of heroin has been seized and over 4.9 million intoxicant tablets and capsules have been confiscated.”

He further added, “₹16.70 crore of drug money has been recovered from drug peddlers and properties worth crores of rupees belonging to smugglers have been confiscated or demolished. The overall conviction rate under the NDPS Act stands at approximately 84%, improving steadily over the years and reaching around 88% in 2025. This reflects robust case preparation, forensic support and prosecution.”

Drawing a clear distinction from earlier governments, Bhagwant Singh Mann asserted, “Contrary to their predecessors, the Punjab Government has not sat idly and watched the smugglers bloom at the cost of the dead bodies and pyres of the drug victims. We have ensured exemplary action against drug smugglers.”

Reiterating the unwavering resolve of the Punjab Government, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann asserted, “The fight of the Punjab Government is to protect Punjab’s young generation and it will continue relentlessly and without a single pause.”

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*Punjab unveils India’s first permanent all-weather tent city for Hola Mohalla*

*• Permanent all-weather AC Tent City dedicated to devotees at Sri Anandpur Sahib: Harjot Singh Bains*

*• Hola Mohalla to be observed as Green Hola Mohalla; complete ban on single-use plastic enforced: Harjot Singh Bains*

*• 28 parking zones, two Trolley Cities, 100 e-rickshaws, upgraded health & security arrangements ensure smooth celebrations: Harjot Singh Bains*

*• Sky to erupt in dazzling display of fireworks on March 2 & 3 at Virasat-e-Khalsa to elevate Hola Mohalla celebrations*

CHANDIGARH, March 2:In a major step to strengthen pilgrimage infrastructure and promote environmental sustainability, Punjab Education Minister Harjot Singh Bains on Monday announced comprehensive arrangements, including a permanent all-weather tent city, for the ongoing Hola Mohalla celebrations at Sri Anandpur Sahib.

Addressing a press conference at Punjab Bhawan, Education Minister Harjot Singh Bains unveiled a series of landmark initiatives, including India’s first permanent air-conditioned tent city and the observance of Green Hola Mohalla. “The permanent tent city was conceived after the success of a temporary structure last year and a subsequent inspection by Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, following which the facility has now been established in the holy city,” he added.

The Education Minister said, “This is a historic moment for Punjab’s religious tourism. We are dedicating a permanent, fully air-conditioned tent city to the public today. This facility, the first of its kind in the country, will address the accommodation shortage faced by devotees year-round. It will not only serve pilgrims under the Mukh Mantri Tirath Yatra Scheme but also provide a significant fillip to Sri Anandpur Sahib’s tourism potential, offering visitors an experience of a lifetime.”

Reaffirming the Bhagwant Mann Government’s commitment to environmental conservation, S. Harjot Singh Bains announced that this year’s Hola Mohalla will be celebrated as Green Hola Mohalla. He informed that a comprehensive ban has been enforced on single-use plastics, with the Punjab Pollution Control Board bearing the entire cost of providing biodegradable alternatives at all langar establishments.

S. Harjot Singh Bains said, “Given the massive scale of langars serving lakhs of devotees, we have prioritised environmental concerns. Every plate, cup and utensil used will be made of biodegradable, non-plastic material.”

Extending an invitation to the global Sikh sangat, the Minister stated that after commemorating the sacred martyrdom anniversary of Sri Guru Teg Bahadur Ji Sahib and the Shaheedi Sabha at Fatehgarh Sahib with deep devotion, the Bhagwant Mann Government now turns to Hola Mohalla with renewed vigour. He invited devotees to join the celebrations with their families and experience the spiritual grandeur of this historic occasion.

The holy city of Sri Anandpur Sahib has been illuminated and decorated elaborately, creating an “otherworldly” ambience during night hours. The revamped Panj Piaras Park reflects the Punjab Government’s focus on heritage restoration, while the Bhai Jaita Ji Museum and other historic sites continue to attract visitors with their rich exhibits.

To manage the influx of devotees arriving on tractors and trolleys from across Punjab, the Rupnagar district administration has set up 28 dedicated parking zones along with two specialised Trolley Cities and designated trolley streets. These facilities are equipped with bathrooms, CCTV surveillance and LED information screens and have been strategically located to serve different regions. Devotees from Majha and Doaba will be directed to the Trolley City near Charan Ganga, while those from Malwa and the Chandigarh side will be accommodated at the facility in village Jhinjri.

Harjot Singh Bains further informed that 100 e-rickshaw shuttle services will operate to ferry devotees to key religious sites such as Takht Sri Keshgarh Sahib and Qila Anandgarh Sahib, ensuring seamless movement during the festivities.

He also announced that the evening sky will light up with a grand display of fireworks on March 2 and 3 at Virasat-e-Khalsa, adding further splendour to the Hola Mohalla celebrations.

Detailing the health and security arrangements, Harjot Singh Bains said that fully equipped ambulances have been stationed at Charan Ganga Stadium and Takht Sri Keshgarh Sahib, while Aam Aadmi Clinics remain operational at every parking lot and major congregation point. “Security measures have been significantly strengthened with a three-layer barricading system along the main procession route near Charan Ganga Stadium to ensure the safety of the sangat while providing Nihang Singhs sufficient space to perform their traditional martial displays smoothly,” he added.

A network of 20 large LED screens has been installed at key locations to provide real-time information and live broadcasts of the main processions. This initiative will keep devotees in parking areas connected with ongoing events, including heritage games and the craft fair. Harjot Singh Bains also thanked officials for their months-long preparation and hard work in ensuring the successful organisation of this historic celebration.

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*Bhagwant Mann Govt rolls out 24x7 helplines to assist Punjabis stranded in Central Asia & Middle East region amid US Israel Iran conflict: Dr Ravjot Singh*

*0172 2260042, 0172 2260043 for foreign nationals & 1100 for Indian nationals to remain operational round clock*

*Punjab Govt committed to ensuring safe return of every Punjabi: Dr Ravjot Singh*

**Committee formed under ADGP R.K. Jaiswal*

CHANDIGARH, 2nd March, 2026:As tensions continue to rise amid the US Israel Iran conflict, the Punjab Government on Monday announced 24x7 helplines to assist Punjabis stranded in Central Asia and the Middle East. NRI Affairs Minister Dr Ravjot Singh said the state is closely monitoring the situation and coordinating efforts to ensure their safe evacuation, while urging Centre State cooperation for the prompt return of those affected.

Announcing this at Punjab Bhawan, NRI Affairs Minister Dr Ravjot Singh stated, “The Punjab Government is closely monitoring the overall situation and has initiated measures based on calls received from the affected areas.”

“We are getting phone calls from Central Asia and most of them are Punjabi tourists. The Punjab Government stands firmly with every Punjabi stranded abroad and we will make every effort to ensure their safe evacuation and return home,” he assured.

Giving details of the assistance mechanism, Minister Dr Ravjot Singh said, “Helpline numbers 0172 2260042, 0172 2260043 for foreign nationals and 1100 for residents of India have been rolled out to provide immediate assistance and coordination.” He added that the helpline service will function 24 hours a day to provide guidance, collect information and coordinate with the concerned authorities for evacuation and support.

A committee has also been formed under the stewardship of ADGP NRI Wing R.K. Jaiswal in this regard, added the Minister.

Stressing the need for Centre State coordination, he added, “The Punjab Government is keen to hold an early meeting with the Central Government to ensure coordination and sincere efforts are being made for the safe evacuation of the stranded persons. We believe that through mutual cooperation between the State and the Central Government, we can expedite the relief measures and provide timely assistance to our beleaguered people.”

Reaffirming administrative preparedness, Minister Dr Ravjot Singh said that the NRI Affairs Department, in coordination with the Home Department and other concerned agencies, is actively collecting data of the affected persons and working on emergency plans to facilitate their safe passage back home.

Reiterating the government’s commitment, the Minister stated, “No stone will be left unturned to protect the interests of Punjabis abroad. The safety of every Punjabi is our top priority.” He appealed to the families of those stranded to remain calm and stay in touch through the designated helpline numbers, adding, “The Punjab Government is fully committed to bringing our people back safely.”

On the occasion, ADGP NRI Wing Punjab R K Jaiswal, Special Secretary NRI Affairs Daljit Kaur, Additional Secretary R J S Brar, Deputy Secretary Home Manpreet Kaur, AIG NRI Wing Ajinder Singh and NRI Commission Member Kamal Garg were present.

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*Deputy Speaker Holds Special Meeting for ‘Shaheed-e-Azam Bhagat Singh National Marathon*

Chandigarh, 2 March 2026-Further strengthen the Punjab Government’s “War Against Drugs” campaign, a special meeting was convened today by Shri Jai Krishan Singh Rouri, Deputy Speaker of the Punjab Vidhan Sabha, regarding the organization of the ‘Shaheed-e-Azam Bhagat Singh National Marathon.’

The Deputy Speaker stated that under the leadership of the Chief Minister, Punjab, S. Bhagwant Singh Mann, a large-scale state-level campaign is being carried out to protect the youth of Punjab from drugs and to restore the vibrancy of “Rangla Punjab.” In this connection, the ‘Shaheed-e-Azam Bhagat Singh National Marathon’ will be organized as a state-level event on 22 March 2026 at Mahilpur (Garhshankar), District Hoshiarpur—known as the soccer town of India

He further informed that on 23 March 2026, state-level function marking the martyrdom day of Shaheed-e-Azam S.Bhagat Singh will be held at Khatkar Kalan. Therefore, the marathon will be organized on 22 March as a tribute to Shaheed-e-Azam.

The Deputy Speaker said that Shaheed-e-Azam Bhagat Singh envisioned a healthy and aware nation. Eliminating drugs and connecting youth with sports is our duty. This marathon will instill a spirit of patriotism among the youth and inspire them to stay away from drugs.

The marathon will feature different categories including 5 km, 10 km, 21 km, and 42 km races, in which children, youth, senior citizens, and persons with disabilities can participate. Winners will be honored with special prizes. Broad participation from schools, colleges, and universities will be ensured, and prominent personalities from India and abroad will also be invited.

He added that to ensure the success of this state-level program, cooperation will be sought from the Departments of Sports and Youth Services, Tourism, Health and Family Welfare, School Education, Higher Education..

Among those present at the meeting were Shri Parminder Singh Goldy (Chairman, Punjab Youth Development Board), Dr. S.P. Anand Kumar (IAS), S. Harpreet Singh Sudan (Director Sports), Shri Damprit Walia (IAS), Smt. Aashika Jain (Deputy Commissioner, Hoshiarpur), Ms. Charu Mehta, Shri Sukhpreet Singh Sidhu, Shri Tejdeep Singh Saini, Shri Major Singh (SP Hoshiarpur), Shri Gautam Kapoor (Public Relations Officer), Shri Rajesh Bakshi, Shri Kulwant Singh Sangha, Shri Arvinder Singh, Dr. Parminder Singh, Dr. Sajjan Sharma, Shri Lakshay Bharti, Shri Ram Lok Khatana, and Shri Mohit Attri, Public Relations Officer to the Deputy Speaker, Punjab Vidhan Sabha, along with other officials.

In conclusion, the Deputy Speaker said, “Let us all run together for a drug-free Punjab and fulfill the dreams of our martyrs.”

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*Punjab Attracts ₹750 Crore Investment in Woollen & Fancy Yarns; Ganga Acrowools limited will Create Additional 1500 Jobs: Sanjeev Arora*

*₹690 crore fresh investment to power textile expansion & stubble-based energy project in Punjab: Sanjeev Arora*

*Parali-based boiler to consume 1.2 lakh tonne annually, help make 20–25 km radius farm-fire free: Sanjeev Arora*

*Textile expansion to boost high-value manufacturing, exports and MSME ecosystem in Punjab: Sanjeev Arora*

CHANDIGARH, 2nd March 2026:Industries and Commerce, Investment Promotion, Power and Local Government Minister Sanjeev Arora on Monday said that the Punjab Government is steadily transforming Punjab into a preferred destination for investors, as he announced a major expansion by Ganga Acrowools Limited, a leading manufacturer of worsted woollen and fancy yarns.

In a press conference, the Minister Industries and Commerce, Investment Promotion Minister, Sanjeev Arora, stated that Ganga Acrowools Limited exports to over 60 countries and currently provides employment to more than 5,600 persons, with an annual turnover of ₹850 crore. "The company has generated employment opportunities for more than 3,000 persons over the last four to five years and has made consistent investments in Punjab under every industrial policy since 1998. This company will also generate additional 1,500 plus employment opportunities through this fresh investment,” he said.

Highlighting the scale of the new project, Minister Sanjeev Arora said that the company is now investing ₹690 crore in Punjab, of which ₹53 crore is being invested in a paddy stubble-based boiler and turbine. “This plant will consume approximately 1,20,000 tonne of paddy stubble per year, nearly 10,000 tonne per month, and will help make an area of approximately 20 to 25 kilometre radius farm-fire free,” he said, underlining that the project aligns industrial growth with environmental responsibility.

Speaking on the occasion, Amit Thapar, President of Ganga Acrowools Limited, said that the company had earlier announced an investment of ₹301 crore at the last investor summit. “With the friendly environment, changes in policies to promote ease of doing business and reduction in cost of doing business, we revised our investment to ₹690 crore, which is now being increased to approximately ₹750 crore. Out of this, ₹400 crore has already been invested and the remaining amount will be invested over the next 24 months,” he said.

He further explained that the new expansion will manufacture yarns for knitting, weaving, carpets and segments of technical textiles. The expansion, he said, will strengthen Punjab’s position in high-value textile manufacturing and exports.

The development is expected to create significant economic impact in the region through additional employment generation and a boost to local value chains, MSMEs and ancillary units. The expansion reflects strong endorsement of Punjab’s progressive industrial policies and its investor-friendly ecosystem, reinforcing confidence among domestic and global manufacturers alike.