Haryana Explores Partnership with Japanese and US Firms for Glydways Transit System

Delegation from Suzuki Motor Corporation and Glydways Calls on Chief Minister

Chandigarh, April 15 — In another major and forward-looking step towards modernising, smartening and making urban transport systems sustainable in Haryana, the State Government is seriously exploring the possibility of introducing the advanced pod taxi (Glydways) transit system in urban centres across the state. The initiative is expected to usher in a new era of smart mobility in Haryana.

In this regard, a high-level delegation from Japan’s reputed company, Suzuki Motor Corporation and Glydways called on Chief Minister, Sh. Nayab Singh Saini at Sant Kabir Kutir, Chandigarh, on Wednesday. During the meeting, detailed discussions were held on various aspects of a potential partnership between the Haryana Government and the companies for the Glydways transit project.

Sh. Nayab Singh Saini said that the Haryana Government is committed to developing world-class infrastructure in the state and providing better, efficient and future-ready transport facilities to citizens.

Key issues discussed during the meeting included the feasibility of launching pod taxi services, identification of potential corridors, route planning, investment models, possibilities under Public-Private Partnership (PPP), and timelines for implementation. The likely transformational impact of the project on urban mobility and the convenience of commuters was also assessed.

The delegation, through a presentation, apprised the Chief Minister that Glydways is an advanced, automated, driverless and on-demand public transport system being developed using cutting-edge technology. The system uses compact autonomous pods to offer fast, safe and convenient travel to passengers.

The project aims to reduce rising traffic congestion in urban areas, shorten travel time and provide an environmentally sustainable mode of transport. It is also expected to improve traffic management, enhance energy efficiency and significantly reduce carbon emissions. Designed keeping in view the needs of future smart cities, the system aligns with long-term and sustainable development goals.

Notably, that under the Government of India’s Urban Challenge Fund, support is proposed to be extended for promoting urban infrastructure and attracting greater investment through new initiatives. In this context, the proposed project is expected to play an important role in strengthening urban transport systems and accelerating planned urban development.

Chief Principal Secretary to Chief Minister, Sh. Rajesh Khullar, Commissioner and Secretary, Urban Local Bodies Department, Sh. Ashok Kumar Meena, Mission Director, Swachh Bharat Mission (Urban), Sh. Shashwat, Advisor, Foreign Cooperation Department, Sh. Pawan Choudhary, Kento Ogura from Suzuki Motor Corporation and Chris Riley, Dave Manu and Alberto Fernandez Lopez from Glydways were also present on the occasion.

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PMT to Be Conducted with Aadhaar-Based Biometric Verification This Time; HSSC Issues Advisory to Candidates

Chandigarh, April 15 — Member of the Haryana Staff Selection Commission (HSSC), Sh. Bhupender Chauhan, has informed that the Physical Measurement Test (PMT) being conducted by the Commission will this time be held using Aadhaar-based biometric verification.

Keeping this in view, all candidates are advised to check the lock status of their Aadhaar biometrics in advance and unlock it, if required, to ensure that the verification process is completed smoothly and on time.

He said that if a candidate’s Aadhaar biometric remains locked, it may lead to unnecessary delays in verification, especially since the use of mobile phones will not be permitted at the examination center. Therefore, candidates should unlock their Aadhaar biometrics in advance using the biometric lock/unlock option available on the official UIDAI website.

To understand the Aadhaar biometric lock/unlock process, candidates may refer to the official UIDAI video link: https://uidai.gov.in/en/media-resources/resources/videos/12119-lock-unlock-aadhaar.html

Sh. Bhupender Chauhan further stated that the Physical Measurement Test has been made fully modern, transparent, and technology-driven this time to ensure fair and equal opportunities for all candidates. For measuring height and chest, special sensor-based advanced machines have been procured from Germany. These machines, equipped with state-of-the-art sensors, will ensure complete accuracy in measurements, eliminating any human error. If the measurements do not meet the prescribed standards, the machine will immediately indicate the same, thereby maintaining the credibility of the entire process.

He added that RFID technology has also been implemented to further streamline and enhance transparency in the examination process. Through this, accurate records of each candidate’s activities and presence at various stages within the examination center will be maintained. This will not only expedite the process but also strengthen monitoring at every stage.

Sh. Bhupender Chauhan said that the Commission’s objective is to make the entire selection process transparent, time-bound, and candidate-friendly. The Commission has appealed to all candidates to follow the prescribed guidelines and appear in the examination with full preparation and confidence.

It is noteworthy that the Physical Measurement Test for various posts across departments will commence from April 20, 2026, at 6:30 AM. Details of shortlisted candidates, along with the date, time, and download link for admit cards, will be made available on the Commission’s website on April 17, 2026. Candidates are advised to regularly visit the website and report to the examination center well in time with all necessary documents.

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Shekhar Vidyarthi Appointed DG, Fire Services

Chandigarh, April 15 - The Haryana Government has issued transfer/posting order of an IAS officer with immediate effect. Chief Secretary Sh. Anurag Rastogi has issued the order in this regard.

Sh. Shekhar Vidyarthi, Commissioner & Secretary, Women & Child Development Department, has been assigned the charge of Director General, Fire Services, Haryana, in addition to his present duties. He replaces Sh. Satbir Singh, who has been relieved of the said charge.

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Haryana Accelerates IMC Hisar Project, Chief Secretary Anurag Rastogi Reviews Progress

Chandigarh, April 15 - In a significant push to industrial growth and infrastructure development, Haryana Chief Secretary Sh. Anurag Rastogi on Tuesday reviewed the progress of the ambitious Integrated Manufacturing Cluster (IMC), Hisar Project, to fast-track key decisions.

The project, being developed under the Amritsar-Kolkata Industrial Corridor, is emerging as a major step towards positioning Hisar as a modern manufacturing hub and boosting economic activity in the region.

Spread over 1,605 acres, the IMC Hisar project has already secured environmental clearance for a substantial portion of land, while approvals for the remaining area are in advanced stages. The cluster is expected to attract large-scale manufacturing investments and create employment opportunities for thousands of people.

The review meeting brought together senior officials from multiple departments, including Civil Aviation, Irrigation, Power Utilities, and project authorities, highlighting a coordinated, whole-of-government approach to ensure timely execution.

Chairing the meeting, Chief Secretary Sh. Anurag Rastogi emphasised the importance of timely execution and coordinated action among departments. He underscored that the IMC Hisar project would play a crucial role in enhancing Haryana’s industrial capacity, attracting investment, and generating large-scale employment.

Additional Chief Secretary, Civil Aviation Department, Smt. G Anupama informed that the project is steadily progressing on multiple fronts, with planning, infrastructure development, and regulatory approvals moving in parallel.

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Establishment of Call Center for redressal and guidance of issues related to Ex-Servicemen of the Armed Forces and CAPF and their Families

Chandigarh, April 15- The Haryana Government has established a dedicated Call Center to provide assistance and support to serving personnel, ex-servicemen of the Armed Forces, Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) and their families, and to provide guidance on various welfare schemes.

Additional Chief Secretary, Sainik and Ardh Sainik Welfare Department, Sh. Vijayendra Kumar said that the initiative aims to ensure timely redressal of grievances and to provide accurate information regarding various welfare schemes and services offered by the Government of Haryana. It will serve as a single-point contact for addressing issues, facilitating access to benefits and guiding beneficiaries on matters concerning their welfare and entitlements.

He said that the department remains committed to the welfare and well-being of the Armed Forces and CAPF community. This initiative is a significant step towards strengthening service delivery by making it more accessible, transparent and responsive. The Call Center can be contacted at 0172-5210277 and will function from Monday to Saturday, 09:30 AM to 05:30 PM, except on government holidays. The Call Center has been operational since March 20, 2026.

He urged all serving personnel, ex-servicemen and their family members to make use of this facility for prompt, efficient and hassle-free assistance.

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Haryana Clears ₹298-Crore Green Plan under CAMPA; 20 Lakh Tree Plantation, Wildlife Protection Measures Approved

Chief Secretary Anurag Rastogi chairs 10th Steering Committee meeting of CAMPA

Chandigarh, April 15 - In a major push towards ecological sustainability and climate-responsive governance, the Haryana Government has approved an ambitious Annual Plan of Operations (APO) worth ₹298.43 crore under the Compensatory Afforestation Management and Planning Authority (CAMPA). The decision was taken at the 10th Steering Committee meeting chaired by Chief Secretary Sh. Anurag Rastogi, marking one of the state’s most comprehensive forest and environment action plans in recent years.

The plan combines large-scale afforestation, renewable energy adoption, wildlife protection, and community engagement, reflecting a multi-pronged strategy to strengthen Haryana’s green cover and ecological resilience.

Chairing the meeting, Chief Secretary Sh. Anurag Rastogi emphasised that the approved APO is not merely a financial exercise but a strategic investment in Haryana’s environmental future. He stressed the importance of measurable outcomes, accountability, and timely execution.

Massive Afforestation Drive Across 1,882 Hectares

CAMPA CEO Dr. Navdeep Singh informed that at the heart of the plan is an extensive plantation programme under which over 20 lakh saplings will be planted across 1,882 hectares of land. In addition, maintenance of existing plantations will be carried out over 4,518 hectares, ensuring the sustainability and survival of previously planted trees.

To address urban pollution and heat stress, the state will also develop dense urban forests using the Miyawaki technique across 16 hectares. These compact, fast-growing forests are expected to significantly enhance green cover in urban and semi-urban areas while improving air quality.

Solar Power for All Forest Divisions

In a pioneering step towards green governance, Haryana plans to install 15 KW solar power systems in forest offices across 22 districts. Funded through CAMPA, this initiative aims to reduce dependency on conventional electricity, lower operational costs, and cut carbon emissions from government infrastructure.

Shivalik and Aravalli Regions to Receive Ecological Boost

Recognising the ecological sensitivity of the Shivalik Hills and Aravalli Range, the government has approved an outlay of over ₹33 crore for Catchment Area Treatment (CAT) works in these regions.

The interventions will focus on soil conservation, water harvesting, and restoration of degraded landscapes. Besides environmental benefits, these projects are expected to generate employment opportunities for local communities residing near forest areas.

Strengthening Forest Protection Infrastructure

To enhance on-ground forest and wildlife protection, the APO includes provisions for 20 new forest check posts, deployment of 60 additional forest watchers, and procurement of patrolling vehicles for field staff. Rescue vehicles for injured wildlife and construction of residential quarters for frontline personnel have also been approved. These measures aim to improve surveillance, response capability, and working conditions of forest staff.

‘Haritima’ Programme to Engage School Students

A key people-centric initiative under the plan is the launch of “Haritima: Hariyali ka Rang, Haryana ke Sang”, an environmental awareness programme targeting students of Classes 6 to 10 in government schools. Under this initiative, 70 eco-camps will be organised across the state, taking students to forests, wildlife sanctuaries, and ecotourism sites. The programme draws inspiration from Madhya Pradesh’s “Anubhuti” model and seeks to instill environmental consciousness among the younger generation through experiential learning.

Accountability Through Independent Monitoring

To ensure transparency and effective utilisation of funds, the plan incorporates third-party monitoring and evaluation mechanisms. A dedicated Project Management Unit (PMU) will also be established to streamline land identification, implementation, and inter-departmental coordination.

The plan will now be submitted to the National CAMPA for final approval, following which implementation will commence across the state.

Additional Chief Secretary, Environment, Forests & Wildlife, Sh. Sudhir Rajpal, Additional Chief Secretary, PW (B&R), Sh. AK Singh, Chairperson CAMPA Executive Committee, Sh. KC Meena and other senior officers were present in the meeting.

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State Government committed to improving access and quality of healthcare services in Haryana: Arti Singh Rao

Approval granted for the opening and upgradation of New Health Institutions

Chandigarh, April 15 – Haryana Health Minister, Ms. Arti Singh Rao, said that the state government is committed to enhancing both the accessibility and quality of healthcare services across the state. In line with this commitment, the Chief Minister, Sh. Nayab Singh Saini has approved the opening of new Primary Health Centres (PHCs), Sub-Health Centres in rural areas, and the upgradation of existing health institutions.

The Health Minister said that administrative approval has been granted for setting up a new Primary Health Centre in village Dhatrath in Jind district, and construction of the building will commence soon. Similarly, in-principle approval has been accorded to upgrade the Sub-Health Centre in village Sakras, district Nuh, into a Primary Health Centre.

She further said that approval has also been granted to upgrade the Community Health Centre at Ladwa in Kurukshetra district into a 50-bedded General Hospital. Besides this, in-principle approval has been given for opening a new Sub-Health Centre in the village Bidhrana in Jind district. The village Panchayat has also proposed to provide a temporary building to operationalise the centre until the construction of the new building is completed.

The Health Minister said that these initiatives will significantly improve access to healthcare services in rural areas, reduce the burden on larger hospitals, and ensure timely treatment for the people.

She added that the state government is continuously working towards strengthening healthcare infrastructure, expanding facilities, and ensuring quality healthcare services reach every citizen.

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Materials of ‘Kaksha Tatparta Karyakram’ released, over 8 lakh students to benefit

45-day programme to be implemented through 31,000 teachers in Haryana

Chandigarh, April 15 – A video conference was organised under the chairmanship of Principal Secretary, School Education Department, Sh. Vijay Singh Dahiya, during which the materials for the ‘Kaksha Tatparta Karyakram’ (Class Readiness Programme) were formally released. The conference was attended by all District Education Officers, District Elementary Education Officers, District Project Coordinators, and Block Education Officers from across the state.

Sh. Vijay Singh Dahiya stated that various academic materials developed under the ‘Kaksha Tatparta Karyakram’ have been released. These include subject-wise timetables for teachers, activity books for students, and an effective monitoring tool to systematically track progress over 45 days. The programme will be conducted during April and May, with the objective of preparing students academically for the new class and strengthening their foundational competencies. Approximately over 8 lakh students across the state will benefit from this initiative, which will be effectively implemented through around 31,000 teachers.

He further said that under the National Education Policy 2020, strengthening Foundational Literacy and Numeracy (FLN) is one of the top priorities of the education system. The NIPUN Bharat Mission is a strong initiative in this direction, aimed at ensuring that children achieve grade-level proficiency in the early classes.

He added that under the leadership of Chief Minister Sh. Nayab Singh Saini, continuous and effective efforts are being made to implement the National Education Policy 2020 at the ground level in the state, making Haryana a model for other states in several aspects. Additionally, under the guidance of Education Minister Sh. Mahipal Dhanda, sustained efforts are being made for the holistic development of children, with positive results already visible.

Referring to various assessment reports, he said that the educational status of the state is very strong, and Haryana ranks third in the country under NIPUN. In this context, this 45-day programme is highly significant. Its objective is to bridge learning gaps among students and bring them up to grade-level proficiency.

He called upon all teachers to focus on each child individually and ensure that no child is left behind. He also emphasized that no matter how advanced technology becomes, the role of the teacher will always remain central and crucial.

During the meeting, the enrollment campaign under ‘Pravesh Utsav’ was also reviewed, and directions were issued to ensure ‘zero dropout’ across the state so that no child remains out of school. On this occasion, Director, Elementary Education, Smt. Manita Malik, and State Project Director, Smt. Varsha Khangwal, also addressed the gathering.

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Municipal Elections 2026: Voting to be Held at 826 Polling Stations; Over 8.70 Lakh Voters to Exercise Franchise

Polling on May 10 in All Notified Urban Local Bodies

Chandigarh, April 15 — The State Election Commission, Haryana, has said that under the Municipal General Elections 2026, elections will be conducted in a total of 144 wards across Municipal Corporations, Municipal Councils, and Municipal Committees in the state.

A commission spokesperson informed that it is estimated that 826 polling stations will be set up for the election process. A total of 8,70,925 voters will exercise their franchise, including 4,53,047 male voters, 4,17,841 female voters, and 37 voters from other categories.

The spokesperson further informed that elections will be held in 20 wards of Ambala Municipal Corporation. The Mayor’s post is reserved for BC-B (Women). Out of the total wards, 2 are reserved for Scheduled Castes, 1 for Scheduled Castes (Women), 1 for BC-A, 1 for BC-A (Women), 1 for BC-B (Women), 4 for Women, and 10 are unreserved. A total of 1,98,224 voters will cast their votes at 191 polling stations, including 1,02,654 male, 95,550 female, and 20 other voters.

In Panchkula Municipal Corporation, elections will also be held in 20 wards, with the Mayor’s post unreserved. The wards include 2 for Scheduled Castes, 1 for Scheduled Castes (Women), 1 for BC-A (Women), 1 for BC-B (Women), 4 for Women, and 11 unreserved. A total of 2,07,379 voters will vote at 204 polling stations, including 1,08,927 male, 98,447 female, and 5 other voters.

In Sonipat Municipal Corporation, elections will be held in 22 wards, with the Mayor’s post unreserved. The wards include 2 for Scheduled Castes, 2 for Scheduled Castes (Women), 1 for BC-A, 1 for BC-A (Women), 1 for BC-B (Women), 4 for Women, and 11 unreserved. A total of 2,95,868 voters will vote at 264 polling stations, including 1,53,292 male, 1,42,569 female, and 7 other voters.

In Rewari Municipal Council, elections will be conducted in 32 wards. The President’s post is reserved for Scheduled Castes (Women). The wards include 4 for Scheduled Castes, 2 for Scheduled Castes (Women), 2 for BC-A, 1 for BC-A (Women), 2 for BC-B, 2 for BC-B (Women), 6 for Women, and 13 unreserved. A total of 1,15,157 voters will cast their votes at 108 polling stations, including 59,142 male, 56,011 female, and 4 other voters.

In Uklana Municipal Committee, elections will be held in 16 wards, with the President’s post reserved for Women. The wards include 4 for Scheduled Castes, 2 for Scheduled Castes (Women), 1 for BC-A (Women), 3 for Women, and 6 unreserved. A total of 15,449 voters will vote at 16 polling stations, including 8,197 male and 7,252 female voters.

In Sampla Municipal Committee, elections will be held in 16 wards, with the President’s post unreserved. The wards include 2 for Scheduled Castes, 1 for Scheduled Castes (Women), 1 for BC-A, 1 for BC-A (Women), 4 for Women, and 7 unreserved. A total of 15,624 voters will cast their votes at 16 polling stations, including 8,141 male and 7,483 female voters.

In Dharuhera Municipal Committee, elections will be held in 18 wards, with the President’s post unreserved. The wards include 2 for Scheduled Castes, 1 for Scheduled Castes (Women), 1 for BC-A, 1 for BC-A (Women), 1 for BC-B, 1 for BC-B (Women), 3 for Women, and 8 unreserved. A total of 23,224 voters will cast their votes at 27 polling stations, including 12,694 male, 10,529 female, and 1 other voter.

The spokesperson also informed that by-elections will be conducted in 6 wards across 6 urban local bodies. For these by-elections, 8 polling stations will be set up, where a total of 7,237 voters (including 3,759 male and 3,478 female voters) will exercise their franchise.

As per the election schedule, polling in all notified urban local bodies will be held on May 10, 2026.