*Haryana Approves Development Projects Worth ₹219.91 Crore; ₹18.81 Crore Saved Through Negotiations*

*CM Nayab Singh Saini Chairs High-Powered Works Purchase Committee Meeting in Chandigarh*

*Projects Cover Solid Waste Management, Roads, Water Supply and Urban Infrastructure*

Chandigarh, October 24: The High-Powered Works Purchase Committee (HPWPC), chaired by Haryana Chief Minister Sh. Nayab Singh Saini, approved development works with a total negotiated value of ₹219.91 crore during its meeting held in Chandigarh today. Through negotiations, the state government achieved savings of ₹18.81 crore against the quoted amount of ₹233.68 crore, ensuring economical utilisation of public funds. Local Bodies Minister Sh. Vipul Goel was also present in the meeting.

The approved Urban Local Bodies projects cover municipal solid waste management, road construction and repair, water supply, sewerage, drainage, street lighting, green belts, parks and other urban infrastructure across the state. Of the 13 Agendas presented in the meeting, 11 were passed while two were deferred.

The committee approved ₹18.70 crore for processing daily generated municipal solid waste in the Narnaul cluster, covering Narnaul, Mahendragarh, Kanina, Nangal Chaudhary and Ateli Mandi. The municipal solid waste processing project in Gurugram was approved at a negotiated cost of ₹38.79 crore, while a similar project at Partapgarh village in Faridabad was approved for ₹17.14 crore.

The committee also approved project for shifting of milk dairies in Hisar. It also approved a project for the upgradation, repair and maintenance of green belts and parks, including parks in newly approved colonies and parks for persons with special abilities.

A banquet hall in Ward No. 20 of Municipal Corporation Panipat was approved at a cost of ₹17.94 crore. The construction of a model road from Agra Chowk to the end of Shardhanand Park on both sides in Palwal was approved at ₹9.28 crore.

The committee also approved construction of an office building for Municipal Corporation Faridabad at Ballabgarh. Works for the augmentation of water supply, sewerage, drainage and street lighting in Sihi village, Ward No. 39, Faridabad, were approved at ₹17.77 crore. Similar works in Bhudena village, Ward No. 35, Faridabad, were approved at ₹13.85 crore.

The rebuilding and repair of road carpeting in Sirsa city, where roads had been dug up for laying a stormwater drainage system, was approved at a negotiated cost of ₹13.29 crore.

Chief Minister Sh. Nayab Singh Saini said the quality of development works and their timely completion are the top priorities of the state government. He directed the concerned departments and executing agencies to ensure that all projects are completed within the stipulated time frame without compromising on quality.

Chief Secretary Sh. Anurag Rastogi, Deputy Principal Secretary to Chief Minister, Dr. Yash Pal, Additional Chief Secretary, Finance, Sh. Sudhir Rajpal, and other senior officers were present in the meeting.

=================================================

*Rakhigarhi's Heritage is Our Historical Identity; Preserving It is Our Collective Responsibility: Krishan Lal Panwar*

*Assembly Deputy Speaker Also Visits the Site*

Chandigarh, October 24: Haryana Development and Panchayats Minister Sh. Krishan Lal Panwar said that the historic land of Rakhigarhi represents India's ancient civilisation, knowledge, skills and rich cultural heritage. The archaeological remains discovered here provide insights into human life and an advanced urban system dating back thousands of years. Preserving this heritage and bringing its historical significance to national and international attention is the collective responsibility of all, he said.

Sh. Krishan Lal Panwar was addressing an international conference organised as part of the International Rakhigarhi Festival at Rakhigarhi village in the Hansi district on Saturday.

Welcoming historians, archaeologists, academicians, administrative officers and other dignitaries from across the country, as well as those participating from abroad through video conferencing, he said such events provide experts with an opportunity to share their research and experiences. This helps promote a broader understanding of Rakhigarhi's historical significance and spread awareness about its heritage.

Sh. Krishan Lal Panwar further said that Haryana's identity is rooted not only in agriculture, sports and the contribution of its soldiers to the service of the nation, but also in its rich folk culture and historical heritage. The state's ragini traditions, folk songs, traditional cuisine and rural lifestyle reflect its distinctive cultural identity. Rakhigarhi is an important part of this heritage, and continuous efforts should be made to establish its recognition at the national and international levels.

He urged young people to remain connected to their cultural roots while advancing in modern education, science, technology and innovation. He said students should visit historical sites such as Rakhigarhi so that they can better understand the history they study in books through archaeological evidence.

At the international conference, CM's OSD Sh. Bharat Bhushan Bharti, Chairman of the Haryana Traders Welfare Board Sh. Rajesh Thakral, Chairman of the Haryana Warehousing Corporation Sh. Ramkishan, archaeologist Dr. Kuldeep Agnihotri and several other scholars shared their views and highlighted the significance of Rakhigarhi.

Earlier, Development and Panchayats Minister Sh. Krishan Lal Panwar visited the exhibition stalls set up by various departments and industries.

Assembly Deputy Speaker Sh. Krishan Lal Middha Also Visits the Festival

Haryana Vidhan Sabha Deputy Speaker Sh. Krishan Lal Middha also attended the International Rakhigarhi Festival. During his visit, he explored an exhibition featuring ancient artefacts of the Harappan civilisation recovered during excavations at Rakhigarhi. He also visited stalls set up by various departments, self-help groups and entrepreneurs to learn about the products and activities on display.

Interacting with stall operators, he said the attractive exhibition of indigenous products at the festival was playing an important role in realising Prime Minister Sh. Narendra Modi's vision of promoting the adoption of indigenous products. Such events provide a valuable platform for local artisans, entrepreneurs and self-help groups to promote and sell their products.

CM's OSD Sh. Bharat Bhushan Bharti Also Shares His Views

OSD to Chief Minister Sh. Nayab Singh Saini, Sh. Bharat Bhushan Bharti, said the state government was working in a planned manner to establish Rakhigarhi on the global tourism map and develop it as a major centre for ancient civilisation and heritage tourism.

Rakhigarhi is an important archaeological site of the Harappan civilisation, and special attention is being given to its conservation, expansion of basic infrastructure and tourism development to enhance its historical and cultural recognition at the national and international levels.

He said the seven-day International Rakhigarhi Festival was being organised with the objective of bringing history, archaeology, art, culture and public participation together on a common platform.

Former Deccan University Vice-Chancellor Appreciates the Festival

Former Vice-Chancellor of Deccan University and renowned archaeologist Dr. Vasant Shinde appreciated the organisation of the International Rakhigarhi Festival while addressing a press conference at Rakhigarhi during the event.

He said the Saraswati-Sindhu civilisation was among the world's oldest civilisations, with evidence suggesting that it dates back approximately 8,000 years. From the early development of urban life to social organisation and cultural traditions, this civilisation has made a significant contribution to human history.

He added that several aspects of the lifestyle and traditions of the people of the Harappan civilisation continue to be reflected in society even today.

==================================================

*Cabinet Minister Ranbir Gangwa Inaugurates Modern Bus Stand in Barwala*

Chandigarh, October 24: The Haryana Government is committed to providing better facilities to residents of Barwala town in Hisar district and transforming it into a modern and beautiful urban centre. Development works in Barwala are being carried out at a steady pace. A modern bus stand has been completed in the town, while construction of a modern grain market adjoining the bus stand is also underway.

Haryana Public Works and Public Health Engineering Minister Sh. Ranbir Gangwa stated this while addressing the gathering during the inauguration of the bus stand in Barwala town of Hisar district on Saturday.

The Cabinet Minister said the government was continuously working to fulfil its promises regarding the development of Barwala. A tender worth approximately ₹3.30 crore has been awarded for the development of Rambagh, while the City Park project will also cost around ₹3.30 crore. In addition, work is underway on roads, streets, a library and other public amenities in the town. Construction of the town's stadium is also progressing, while work on the community centre is nearing completion.

He said entry gates were being constructed at all four approaches to Barwala. Beautiful roundabouts will be developed at both the entry and exit points on the Hisar side of the town. These initiatives will enhance the town's appearance and provide residents with improved urban amenities. Construction of most streets in the town has been completed, and work on the remaining streets will also begin soon.

Cabinet Minister Sh. Ranbir Gangwa said that under the leadership of Chief Minister Sh. Nayab Singh Saini, development works across the state were progressing rapidly. The state government was continuously working to fulfil the promises made to the people during the elections. Of the 210 promises made after the formation of the government, 75 have been fulfilled so far.

=================================================

*Haryana Delivers Historic Performance at Asian Para Games*

*Haryana Athletes Win 31 Medals, Including 9 Gold Medals; Minister Arti Singh Rao Congratulates Medal Winners*

Chandigarh, October 24: Haryana's para-athletes have created history with their outstanding performance at the Asian Para Games, held in Japan from October 18 to 24, 2026. Indian athletes brought glory to the country by winning a total of 114 medals at the international competition, with Haryana making a significant contribution by securing 31 medals, including 9 gold medals, along with silver and bronze medals. This historic achievement has further strengthened Haryana's identity on the international sporting map.

Congratulating all the athletes who excelled at the Asian Para Games, their coaches, support staff, family members and all sports officials, Arti Singh Rao, President of the Para Sports Association of Haryana, expressed pride in the state's remarkable performance. She said that Haryana's para-athletes have consistently delivered outstanding performances in national and international competitions. She emphasised that this achievement is the result of the athletes' unwavering hard work, the dedication of their coaches, the continuous support of their families and the efforts of sports organisations.

Arti Singh Rao also appreciated the role of the Paralympic Committee of India (PCI). She said that the encouragement being extended to para-sports in the country under the aegis of the Paralympic Committee of India is providing athletes with better opportunities to hone their talent and represent India at the international level. She added that Haryana's determined athletes have once again demonstrated that physical challenges cannot become barriers for those who possess strong willpower, discipline and dedication. Their success will serve as a major source of inspiration for future generations.

A look at the overall results shows that India finished fourth in the medal tally with 114 medals, including 30 gold medals. India had won 111 medals in 2022, making this year's performance the country's best-ever showing in the history of the Asian Para Games. Notably, Haryana's athletes accounted for nearly 30 per cent of India's total gold medals, reflecting their exceptional talent, hard work and determination.

Haryana athletes who won gold medals include Sumit Antil (javelin), Honey (javelin throw), Pranav Soorma (club throw), Harvinder Singh (archery), Sandeep Kumar (400-metre race), Nitesh Kumar (badminton), Dharambir (club throw), Sumit (javelin throw) and Rinku (javelin throw). Honey, an athlete from Rohtak district, created a new world record in the F37 category of javelin throw with a throw of 60.49 metres. Meanwhile, Sandeep Kumar from Hisar won gold in the T44 category of the 400-metre race with a time of 52.28 seconds, breaking the world record and creating history.

Silver medallists from Haryana include Bhawna (archery), Pooja (archery), Pramod (1,500-metre race), Nitesh Kumar (badminton), Kokila (judo), Manish Narwal (shooting), Ashok Malik (powerlifting), and Manjeet and Kapil Kumar in their respective events.

Bronze medallists include Navdeep (javelin throw), Himanshu (swimming), Dharambir (club throw), Ajay Kumar (400-metre race), along with Pradeep, Sukhchain, Karamjot, Honey, Rohit, Sandeep, Praveen and Rahul in their respective events.

Arti Singh Rao wished all the medal winners a bright future and expressed confidence that Haryana's athletes would continue to achieve such remarkable milestones for the country in future competitions.

===============================================

*Providing Essential Facilities to Farmers in Mandis is Government's Priority: Shyam Singh Rana*

*Haryana Agriculture Minister Shyam Singh Rana Reviews Bajra and Paddy Procurement at Beri Grain Market, Directs Officials to Ensure Smooth Arrangements*

Chandigarh, October 24: Haryana Agriculture and Farmers' Welfare Minister Sh. Shyam Singh Rana visited the Beri Grain Market in Jhajjar on Saturday morning to review arrangements for the procurement of bajra and paddy. During his inspection of the procurement process, he also interacted with farmers and commission agents.

The Agriculture Minister issued clear directions to officials that farmers must not face any inconvenience while selling their produce. He directed that the procurement process be conducted transparently, smoothly and within the stipulated time frame, and that farmers' grievances be resolved on priority.

The Agriculture Minister reviewed the arrangements at a meeting with officials of the concerned departments and procurement agencies at the Market Committee office located within the grain market premises. He said that the Central and State Governments are committed to protecting farmers' interests and ensuring fair prices for their produce. Providing better facilities to farmers in mandis and ensuring procurement of their crops in accordance with prescribed rules are among the government's key priorities.

Sh. Shyam Singh Rana said that, alongside crop procurement, arrangements for lifting, storage and payment must also function smoothly in the mandis. He directed officials to take farmers' grievances seriously and ensure their timely resolution. All procurement agencies must work in coordination while adhering to the prescribed rules.

He emphasised that procurement arrangements should be monitored regularly and that unnecessary accumulation of crops in the mandis must be avoided. Timely lifting of procured crops should be ensured so that other farmers arriving at the mandis can also unload and sell their produce without difficulty.

The Agriculture Minister directed officials to ensure proper basic facilities at the Beri Grain Market, including electricity, drinking water, shade, toilets and cleanliness. He also stressed the need for proper arrangements at the Atal Canteen so that farmers visiting the mandi do not face any inconvenience. In addition, he directed officials to ensure the availability of essential facilities for farmers at the Majra procurement centre.

He said that it is the responsibility of the concerned officials to provide farmers with a better environment and adequate facilities in the mandis. All departments must regularly monitor the arrangements and take necessary steps to improve them.

=============================

*Haryana Youth to Get Better Employment Opportunities and Attractive Salary Packages*

*Standing Finance Committee Approves PM-SETU Scheme*

Chandigarh, October 24: The Haryana Government has taken a major step towards skill development and connecting young people with employment opportunities. At an important meeting of the Standing Finance Committee chaired by Chief Minister Sh. Nayab Singh Saini, the implementation and budgetary provisions for the PM-SETU (Pradhan Mantri Skilling and Employability Transformation through Upgraded ITIs) scheme, being launched in the state for the first time, were approved.

The primary objective of the scheme is to ensure maximum employment opportunities for skilled youth graduating from upgraded ITIs in the state and help them secure better salary packages in line with industry requirements.

At the meeting, the Chief Minister also approved the Kurukshetra Cluster project, estimated to cost approximately ₹320.44 crore.

*A National Vision Worth ₹60,000 Crore*


The centrally sponsored PM-SETU scheme was announced in the Union Budget 2024-25 and further expanded in the Union Budget 2025-26. The scheme has a total national budget of ₹60,000 crore, comprising ₹30,000 crore from the Central Government, ₹20,000 crore from state governments and ₹10,000 crore from the industry.

Additionally, the Asian Development Bank (ADB) and the World Bank will provide co-financing support of up to 50 per cent of the Central Government's share through results-based lending. Under the scheme, 1,000 government ITIs and five National Skill Training Institutes (NSTIs) across the country are being developed as National Centres of Excellence equipped with state-of-the-art facilities.

*Hub-and-Spoke Model to Transform it is*


Under the scheme, ITIs will be developed through a hub-and-spoke cluster model. The first component will be implemented by Haryana's Skill Development and Industrial Training Department, while the second component will be directly managed by the Union Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship. Each hub ITI will be linked to approximately four spoke ITIs, which will be equipped with modern infrastructure, machinery and digital learning facilities.

For administrative and financial management, a Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV), in the form of a Section 8 company, will be established. The Anchor Industry Partner (AIP) will hold 51 per cent of the shareholding, while the remaining 49 per cent will be equally divided between the Central and State Governments, with each holding 24.5 per cent. The SPV's board will include representatives from industry, the Central Government, the State Government and ITI leadership, with an industry representative serving as its chairperson.

*Estimated Outlay of ₹2,892 Crore for 12 Clusters in Haryana*


Haryana plans to establish 12 clusters under the scheme, covering approximately 60 government ITIs across the state. The total estimated expenditure is ₹2,892 crore, of which the State Government's share will be approximately ₹954 crore.

At present, seven clusters have been identified in the state. The Strategic Investment Plan (SIP) for the Kurukshetra cluster has received approval from the National Steering Committee (NSC), while the plan for the Kalayat cluster will be taken up after January 2027. Requests for Proposals (RFPs) have been issued for the Palwal, Sonipat and Chhara clusters, while RFPs for Panipat and Rewari are scheduled to be issued in December. Separate budgetary provisions will be made for the remaining clusters after their final approval.

At the meeting, the financial allocation for the Kurukshetra ITI cluster was approved in detail. The project will cost ₹320.44 crore, with the Central Government contributing ₹160.22 crore (50 per cent), the State Government ₹105.75 crore (33 per cent), and the Anchor Industry Partner (AIP) ₹54.47 crore (17 per cent).

The implementation contract for the Kurukshetra cluster has been awarded to M/s Jindal Naveen Avsar Limited. The cluster will comprise one hub ITI—Government ITI, Kurukshetra—and six spoke ITIs: Women's ITI, Kurukshetra; ITI Kaithal; ITI Pehowa; ITI Pabnawa; Women's ITI, Ambala City; and Women's ITI, Kaithal.

According to the financial details, ₹163.06 crore of the total project cost will be allocated towards capital expenditure (CAPEX) for upgrading infrastructure and laboratories. Of this amount, 98 per cent, or ₹160.22 crore, will be borne by the Central Government. The remaining ₹157.38 crore will be allocated towards operational expenditure (OPEX), to be shared by the State Government and the industry partner in the ratio of 65:35, respectively.

*Budgetary Allocation and Further Action*


The committee approved the creation of a new budget head for the PM-SETU scheme and sanctioned a provision of ₹105.75 crore towards the State Government's share for the Kurukshetra cluster during the financial years 2026-27 to 2030-31. It also authorised the release of 10 per cent of the State Government's share as an advance payment, amounting to ₹10.50 crore, for the operation of the Kurukshetra cluster during the current financial year 2026-27.

This landmark decision by the Haryana Government will equip the state's ITI infrastructure with world-class facilities, enabling young people to receive training in modern technologies and opening up new employment opportunities for them in leading companies in India and abroad.

Minister of State for Youth Empowerment and Entrepreneurship Sh. Gaurav Gautam, Additional Chief Secretary, Finance and Planning Department, Sh. Sudhir Rajpal; Additional Chief Secretary, Youth Empowerment and Entrepreneurship Department, Smt. G. Anupama; Deputy Principal Secretary to the Chief Minister, Dr. Yashpal; Commissioner, Finance Department, Sh. C.G. Rajinikanthan; Director, Skill Development and Industrial Training Department, Sh. Parth Gupta; and other senior officers were present at the meeting

==================================

Haryana Chief Minister, Sh. Nayab Singh Saini redressing the grievances of the people

CHANDIGARH, 24.10.26-Haryana Chief Minister, Sh. Nayab Singh Saini redressing the grievances of the people at his residence Sant Kabir Kutir in Chandigarh on October 24, 2026.

=============================================

*Congress choosing November 1 to protest against SIR raises serious questions: Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini*

*Ensuring justice for the victims of the 1984 anti-Sikh massacre is not politics, but our duty: Chief Minister*

*Those under whose rule allegations of booth capturing surfaced are now making allegations about 'vote chori': Chief Minister*

Chandigarh, October 24 – Haryana Chief Minister Sh. Nayab Singh Saini launched a sharp attack on the Congress, saying that the party had 365 days of the year to hold a rally against the Special Intensive Revision (SIR), but its decision to choose November 1 raises serious questions.

He said that every political party has the right to express its views in a democracy, and the government respects that right. However, why did the Congress choose this particular date? November 1, 1984, was the day when the horrific phase of anti-Sikh violence began in Delhi. Thousands of Sikh families lost their loved ones, and the pain of that tragedy remains alive in their hearts even today. Dates are recorded not only on calendars but also in the collective memory of the nation. Why, then, choose the very day associated with one of the most painful memories of the Sikh community? On a day when the Sikh community bows its head in remembrance of its martyrs, will the Congress set up a stage and raise political slogans? If it is a coincidence, the Congress should state so openly and demonstrate sensitivity towards the sentiments of the Sikh community. If it is not a coincidence, the matter becomes even more serious. In either case, the Congress is accountable.

The Chief Minister said that November 1 is a day of mourning and remembrance for the Sikh community. If an attempt is made to overshadow those memories with political slogans and noise on that day, questions are bound to arise. Our concern for the victims of 1984 is not a matter of politics, but of compassion and duty. Standing with the victims is not a favour; it is our moral responsibility.

The Chief Minister said that under the leadership of Prime Minister Sh. Narendra Modi, a Special Investigation Team (SIT) was constituted in 2015, reopening the way for reinvestigation into the long-pending cases related to the 1984 violence. As part of this process, Congress leader Sajjan Kumar was sentenced to life imprisonment. He said that it was only when files that had remained closed for years were reopened that the victims' hopes of obtaining justice were strengthened.

He said that the opening of the Kartarpur Sahib Corridor fulfilled the sangat's decades-old prayer. To honour the extraordinary sacrifices of the Sahibzadas at the national level, December 26 was declared Veer Bal Diwas. Furthermore, arrangements were made under the Seva Bhoj Yojana to reimburse the GST levied on langar served at gurdwaras. These steps reflect respect for the Sikh community's faith, spirit of service and tradition of sacrifice.

*Decision to provide government jobs to members of 121 families affected by the 1984 violence in Haryana is a step towards their dignified rehabilitation*

The Chief Minister said that the violence of 1984 had also left deep scars in Haryana. As many as 121 people lost their lives in the state, while 20 gurdwaras, 221 houses, 154 shops and 57 factories were set on fire. No measure can fully compensate these families for their losses. However, recognising its responsibility towards them, the government decided in the Legislative Assembly that members of these 121 families would be provided government jobs so that they could move forward in life with dignity.

He said that it is the government's duty to show sensitivity towards families who had to wait for decades to secure their rights and obtain justice. It is essential to understand the pain of the Sikh community and honour its history and sacrifices.

Reacting to the statement made by Sardar Tirlochan Singh, the Chief Minister said that he is a leader who has contested elections on a Congress ticket. His public statement alleging that people had been sent with weapons to capture polling booths has raised serious questions. The Congress leadership should clarify its position on the statement and tell the nation whether it accepts or refutes the remarks made by its own leader.

The Chief Minister said that this is not merely an allegation levelled by an opposition party, but a public statement made by a leader who has been associated with the Congress. In a democracy, political parties are responsible for answering such serious questions. Instead of offering vague explanations, the Congress should clearly state its position on what its leader has said.

*Congress allegations over SIR reflect double standards*

The Chief Minister said that the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls is not a new process. Under Article 324 of the Constitution and Section 21 of the Representation of the People Act, 1950, the Election Commission is empowered to revise electoral rolls. Intensive revision exercises have been undertaken in various years since Independence, including during several periods when the Congress was in power. Therefore, accusing the same process of facilitating vote theft today, after accepting it in the past, exposes the Congress's double standards.

He said that removing the names of deceased persons, those who have shifted residence and duplicate entries is essential to maintaining clean electoral rolls and ensuring fair elections. No eligible citizen should be deprived of the right to vote, and adequate opportunities are available under the prescribed procedure to get one's name included in the electoral rolls. Eligible citizens can apply to have their names included through Form 6, their Booth Level Officer (BLO), or the Voter Helpline App.

The Chief Minister said that the strength of democracy depends on transparent and reliable electoral rolls. Elections are won through the people's votes, not through pressure or the use of weapons. Therefore, before questioning SIR, the Congress should also answer questions concerning its own tenure in government and statements made by its leaders.

Reacting to Rahul Gandhi's slogan, 'Mohabbat Ki Dukaan', the Chief Minister said that speaking about love and brotherhood is a good thing, but the real test lies in one's conduct and accountability. The Congress should explain what place the suffering of families affected by the 1984 violence has in its 'Mohabbat ki Dukaan' and why the party leadership remains silent on the serious statement made by its own Sikh leader.

He said that the Congress must provide clear answers to three questions. First, why was November 1 specifically chosen for the rally against SIR? Second, what is the Congress leadership's position on Sardar Tirlochan Singh's statement regarding booth capturing? Third, why does the Congress not answer questions concerning its past electoral practices and its tenure in government before levelling allegations of vote theft?

The Chief Minister said that concealing history does not change the truth, and political slogans cannot erase questions about the past. The memories, struggles and injustices suffered by the victims of 1984 cannot be forgotten. Respecting the sentiments of the Sikh community and continuing efforts to secure justice for the affected families is everyone's responsibility. The Congress, too, must clarify its position on these serious questions.