*Vishnudutt Selected for Shri Dhanpat Singh Sangi Lifetime Achievement Award 2026*
*Grandson of legendary folk artist Pandit Lakhmi Chand to receive Rs 1 lakh cash award and citation*
*Saang embodies Haryana’s cultural identity, folk traditions and social consciousness: Dr. Aditya Dahiya*
Chandigarh, November 11: Sh. Vishnudutt, grandson of legendary Saang artist Pandit Lakhmi Chand, has been selected for the prestigious Shri Dhanpat Singh Sangi Lifetime Achievement Award 2026 for his contribution to Haryana’s rich folk theatre tradition. He will be honoured with a cash award of Rs 1 lakh and a citation.
Dr. Aditya Dahiya, Director, Information, Public Relations and Languages Department, Haryana, said Saang holds a special place in the state’s cultural heritage. Beyond entertainment, it has served as a powerful medium for conveying social values, moral teachings and the everyday experiences of rural communities through folk theatre.
He said the department organises the State-Level Saang Mahotsav every year to preserve this cultural legacy, promote traditional performing arts and encourage artists who have dedicated themselves to keeping the art form alive.
The State-Level Saang Mahotsav for 2025–26 was held from February 23 to 27, 2026, at the auditorium of the Haryana Kala Parishad in Kurukshetra. During the five-day Mahotsav, artists from across the state showcased Haryana’s traditional folk theatre through Saang performances combining folk music, acting and dialogue delivery.
*Selection Based on Performance and Career Achievements*
Explaining the selection process, Dr. Aditya Dahiya said the award recipient was chosen through a structured evaluation by two committees.
The Review Committee assessed the artists’ stage performances out of a maximum of 60 marks, while the Selection Committee evaluated their supporting documents and biographical profiles for the remaining 40 marks.
Sh. Vishnudutt was selected for the Lifetime Achievement Award on the basis of the combined assessment of the two committees.
*Carrying Forward Pandit Lakhmi Chand’s Cultural Legacy*
Dr. Aditya Dahiya said Pandit Lakhmi Chand’s contribution to Haryana’s folk theatre and literary traditions remains unparalleled. Through his compositions, folk songs and Saang performances, he enriched Haryanvi folk literature and gave artistic expression to the aspirations, struggles, social concerns and moral values of ordinary people.
His works continue to capture the emotional depth of rural life, the nuances of human relationships and Haryana’s cultural ethos.
Dr. Aditya Dahiya said the selection of his grandson, Sh. Vishnudutt, for this prestigious honour is also a tribute to Pandit Lakhmi Chand’s enduring cultural legacy. His contribution helped establish folk theatre and the Haryanvi language as defining elements of the state’s identity.
*Haryana Government Committed to Preserving Traditional Folk Arts*
The Director said Sh. Vishnudutt will be presented with a cash award of Rs 1 lakh and a citation. Other artists who participated in the State-Level Saang Mahotsav have also been paid an honorarium of Rs 30,000 per performance.
He said the Haryana Government remains committed to preserving and promoting the state’s traditional folk arts and ensuring their wider recognition. The department is working to honour the contributions of veteran performers while providing opportunities for emerging artists to showcase their talent.
Emphasising the importance of connecting younger generations with their cultural roots, Dr. Dahiya said such Mahotsav and awards play a vital role in sustaining Haryana’s traditional performing arts. Saang is an expression of Haryana’s folk spirit. Preserving this living tradition is our collective cultural responsibility, he said.
Dr. Aditya Dahiya added that sustained efforts to recognise accomplished artists and promote traditional art forms would help preserve Haryana’s rich folk theatre heritage and inspire future generations to carry it forward.
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*Special Courts to Be Set Up in Hisar, Faridabad, Palwal, Rohtak and Bhiwani for Speedy Disposal of Cases*
*Chief Minister directs filing of chargesheets within 60 days in all SC/ST cases to ensure justice*
*Haryana records nearly 28 per cent decline in SC/ST-related cases*
Chandigarh, November 11- Haryana Chief Minister Sh. Nayab Singh Saini has issued firm directions to police and administrative officers to ensure speedy justice for citizens belonging to the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (SC/ST) and effectively curb crimes against them. He said chargesheets must be filed in court within the stipulated period of 60 days in every SC/ST-related case, with full compliance across all cases. Negligence, laxity or dereliction at any level in securing justice for victims would not be tolerated, he said.
The Chief Minister was chairing a meeting of the State-Level Vigilance and Monitoring Committee in Chandigarh to review the implementation of the provisions of the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, 1989, and the Protection of Civil Rights Act, 1955. Social Justice and Empowerment Minister Sh. Krishan Kumar Bedi was also present.
*Nearly 28 Per Cent Decline in SC/ST-Related Cases*
Director General of Police Sh. Ajay Singhal informed the Chief Minister that the state had recorded a decline of nearly 28 per cent in SC/ST-related cases. He said the requirement to file chargesheets within 60 days was being effectively implemented in accordance with the Chief Minister’s instructions, and every effort was being made to achieve full compliance.
In the meeting, it was informed that action had been taken against 10 police personnel for negligence in securing justice for victims. Senior officers have also been appointed as nodal officers at the district and subdivision levels to regularly monitor the progress, investigation and timely disposal of cases.
The Chief Minister said efforts in this direction needed to be strengthened further. Alongside reducing crime, securing justice for victims and preventing the recurrence of such incidents were equally important, he said.
*Special Courts to Be Established in Five Districts*
To expedite the disposal of SC/ST-related cases, the Chief Minister directed that special courts be established in Hisar, Faridabad, Palwal, Rohtak and Bhiwani. He said these courts should facilitate faster hearings so that victims do not have to wait long for justice. The process of establishing the special courts should be expedited, he added.
*Closer Monitoring of Districts and Police Stations Reporting More Cases*
The Chief Minister directed that special drives be undertaken in districts reporting relatively higher numbers of SC/ST-related cases to conduct detailed reviews. He said the underlying causes should be identified, local conditions analysed and concrete corrective measures taken to prevent such incidents from recurring.
He specifically directed that police stations registering higher numbers of such cases be identified separately and placed under close monitoring by senior officers. Police activity should be stepped up in the areas concerned, and effective action ensured at sensitive locations. Long-pending cases should also be disposed of expeditiously on priority.
The Chief Minister said panchayats where no such case had been registered in the past two years should be encouraged. He said the Panchayat Department should submit the names of these panchayats so that they could be recognised and encouraged.
He said the Haryana Government is committed to social justice, equality and the dignity and safety of every citizen. Ensuring justice for citizens belonging to the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes is the government’s responsibility. He directed officers to handle these cases with sensitivity, promptness and accountability, ensuring that no victim faces an unnecessary wait for justice.
The Chief Minister also directed that meetings at the district and subdivision levels be held regularly within the prescribed timelines and that cases pending at the district level be disposed of expeditiously on priority.
The meeting was informed that financial assistance of Rs 13.49 crore had been provided so far in 2026–27 for the relief and rehabilitation of 1,046 victims of atrocities. In addition, 418 beneficiaries had received financial assistance of Rs 10.45 crore under the Mukhyamantri Samajik Samrasta Antarjatiya Vivah Shagun Yojana during the current financial year. The Chief Minister described the scheme as a commendable initiative to promote social harmony.
Speech, writing and debate competitions, along with seminars, are also being organised in schools and colleges to raise awareness about the prevention of atrocities.
MLAs Dr Krishan Kumar, Sh. Bhagwan Dass Kabirpanthi, Sh. Jarnail Singh, Sh. Shishpal Keharwala, Sh. Pawan Kharkhoda, Smt. Bimla Chaudhary and Sh. Kapoor Singh Valmiki, Smt. Banto Kataria, Additional Chief Secretary, Home Department, Sh. Sudhir Rajpal, Additional Chief Secretary, SEWA Department, Smt. G. Anupama, Director General of Police, Sh. Ajay Singhal, Director, Information, Public Relations and Languages Department, Dr. Aditya Dahiya, Director, SEWA Department, Sh. Mukul Kumar, and several other official and non-official members remained present on this occasion.
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*Haryana Government Extends Contractual Engagement of Employees Under Outsourcing Policy and HKRNL Till December 31*
Chandigarh, November 11 – The Haryana Government has extended the contractual engagement of employees appointed under Part-II of the Outsourcing Policy and personnel deployed through the Haryana Kaushal Rozgar Nigam Limited (HKRNL) by 2 months, up to December 31, 2026.
An order issued by Chief Secretary Sh. Anurag Rastogi stated that the contractual engagement of employees appointed against sanctioned posts under Part-II of the Outsourcing Policy, which was earlier extended up to October 31, 2026, has now been further extended from November 1, 2026, to December 31, 2026.
Similarly, the contractual engagement of personnel deployed through HKRNL in various government departments, boards and corporations, whose contract period had expired on October 31, 2026, has also been extended up to December 31, 2026.
The extension is subject to strict compliance with all the conditions stipulated in HKRNL Memo No. 8018 dated March 25, 2025.
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*Set Up Separate Corporation to Expedite Tendering for Development Works- Chief Minister*
*Chief Minister reviews department-wise expenditure under current budget ahead of preparations for next financial year*
*Government accords top priority to spending on development works and public welfare schemes, says Nayab Singh Saini*
Chandigarh, November 11- Haryana Chief Minister Sh. Nayab Singh Saini has directed that a separate corporation be established on the lines of Singapore’s model to expedite the tendering process for major development works. The corporation would ensure timely completion of the tendering process for large and important projects across departments, accelerating development and ensuring proper utilisation of budgetary allocations.
The Chief Minister gave these directions while chairing a meeting at the Haryana Civil Secretariat on Wednesday to review department-wise expenditure during the current financial year as part of preparations for the next financial year’s budget. Reviewing expenditure against the allocations made to each department, he directed officers to expedite development works to ensure proper utilisation of the allocated funds before the close of the current financial year.
Taking note of delays in tendering in some departments, the Chief Minister directed that, depending on the nature of development works, options such as establishing a new corporation, empanelling consultancy firms and hiring township consultants be adopted. He said officers of major departments should prepare and implement an appropriate plan under the chairmanship of the Chief Secretary.
He said routing the process, from the preparation of tender documents to the award of tenders, through the corporation and expert consultants would help departments complete tendering more quickly and ensure that the benefits of development works reach the public sooner.
The Chief Minister said the present State Government is working with commitment to accelerate development, ensure effective implementation of public welfare schemes and strengthen infrastructure across the state. The state’s total budget estimate for 2026–27 stands at Rs 2,23,658 crore, an increase of 9.1 per cent over the budget estimate for 2025–26. He said approximately 95 per cent of the budget was spent last year and directed officers to aim for full utilisation of the funds allocated during the current financial year.
In the meeting, it was informed that 13 departments had spent more than 50 per cent of their annual budget provisions. The Department of Economic and Statistical Affairs led with expenditure of 91.8 per cent, followed by the Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises Department at 73.7 per cent, the Energy Department at 72.9 per cent, the Public Works (Buildings and Roads) Department at 68.6 per cent, the Social Justice and Empowerment Department at 63.2 per cent and the Public Health Engineering Department at 62.9 per cent.
Similarly, the Police Department had spent 61 per cent of its budget, the Transport Department 58.7 per cent, the Secondary Education Department 55.7 percent and the Higher Education Department 51.9 per cent. Funds were also being effectively utilised in key sectors such as Health, Medical Education and Research, and Primary Education. The pace of expenditure is expected to increase significantly as ongoing works are completed.
The Chief Minister directed all departments to work proactively to ensure proper utilisation of budgetary allocations for development works. He also emphasised that there must be no compromise on the quality of construction.
Sh. Nayab Singh Saini said he would review budget expenditure again at the end of December and directed that every department achieve at least 90 per cent expenditure by then.
He said Rs 100 crore had been received from the Central Government under the AMRUT scheme and directed officers to proactively ensure effective utilisation of these funds to accelerate urban development.
The Chief Minister expressed satisfaction that incidents of stubble burning in the state had been negligible this year. He also expressed satisfaction over figures indicating higher sugarcane production than last year and an increase in sugar production.
Keeping the forthcoming Commonwealth and Olympic Games in view, the Chief Minister directed that two to three sports stadiums conforming to international standards be developed in the state. He also reviewed the construction of stadiums at the Sports University in Rai and for persons with disabilities at Daulatabad in Gurugram, and issued necessary directions.
Sh. Nayab Singh Saini said the State Government seeks to ensure that every rupee provided in the budget is utilised with transparency, accountability and a commitment to public welfare, giving fresh impetus to the state’s overall development and realising the vision of Viksit Haryana.
Chief Secretary Sh. Anurag Rastogi, Additional Chief Secretaries Dr. G. Anupama, Sh. A. K. Singh and Sh. Vijayendra Kumar, Principal Secretaries Sh. Pankaj Yadav and Sh. Vijay Singh Dahiya; Commissioners and Secretaries Dr. Amit Kumar Agrawal and Sh. C. G. Rajini Kaanthan, Director General, Haryana Institute of Fiscal Management, Dr. Raj Nehru and officers from other departments attended the meeting.
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*Haryana Steps Up Efforts to Strengthen Dairy Sector and Boost Livestock Farmers' Income: Shyam Singh Rana*
Rs 361 crore disbursed for cattle fodder support between October 2024 and November 2026*
*80 Bulk Milk Coolers allocated during 2024-26 to strengthen milk chilling infrastructure*
*Rs 133.11 crore transferred to nearly 51,000 beneficiaries under Mukhyamantri Dugdh Utpadak Protsahan Yojana*
Chandigarh, November 11- Haryana Agriculture and Animal Husbandry Minister Sh. Shyam Singh Rana said the state government is taking sustained measures to enhance the income of livestock farmers, strengthen dairy infrastructure and create greater economic opportunities in rural areas.
Highlighting various initiatives undertaken to promote animal husbandry, the Minister said the government is focusing on financial assistance, modern infrastructure, breed improvement and value addition in the dairy sector to make livestock rearing more productive and economically rewarding.
Sh. Sh. Shyam Singh Rana said that, in line with Prime Minister Sh. Narendra Modi's vision, environmental conservation and livestock development remain integral to the country's economic priorities. The Haryana Government is pursuing initiatives aimed at strengthening these sectors while supporting the livelihoods of farmers and livestock rearers.
Giving details of financial assistance for cattle welfare, the Minister said approximately Rs 361 crore was disbursed between October 2024 and November 2026 as fodder grants for cattle housed in registered Gaushalas and Nandishalas across the state, as well as rehabilitated cattle.
He said efforts are also being made to promote dairy processing and encourage the consumption of nutritious milk-based products. As part of these initiatives, several value-added products have been launched, including pistachio- and saffron-flavoured milk, barley and sorghum laddoos, pearl millet laddoos and mango lassi.
*Focus on Modern Dairy Infrastructure and Breed Improvement*
The Minister said particular emphasis is being placed on upgrading dairy infrastructure, especially at the cooperative society level. To strengthen milk chilling facilities and improve milk handling, 80 Bulk Milk Coolers were allocated during 2024-26.
Highlighting progress in livestock breed improvement, Sh. Rana said a modern Sex-Sorted Semen Laboratory has been established in Hisar at a cost of approximately Rs 18.63 crore. The facility is aimed at supporting scientific breeding practices and improving the genetic potential of livestock in the state.
The Minister further said that direct financial assistance is being provided to dairy farmers under the *Mukhyamantri Dugdh Utpadak Protsahan Yojana. Between October 2024 and September 2026, subsidy amounting to Rs 133.11 crore was transferred directly into the bank accounts of approximately 51,000 beneficiaries under the scheme.
Sh. Sh. Shyam Singh Rana said these initiatives reflect the government's continued focus on making animal husbandry and dairy farming more financially viable. By combining direct financial support with improved infrastructure, modern breeding technology and dairy product diversification, the state government aims to enhance farmers' earnings and strengthen the rural economy.He reiterated that the government remains committed to the economic empowerment of livestock farmers and the long-term development of the animal husbandry sector in Haryana.
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*Applications Invited for Science Education Promotion Scholarship Scheme from Tomorrow*
Chandigarh, November 11 – The Haryana Government has invited online applications under the Science Education Promotion (POSE) Scholarship Scheme 2026-27 from November 12, 2026, to encourage meritorious students pursuing higher education in basic and natural sciences.
A spokesperson for the Haryana State Council for Science, Innovation and Technology said that the objective of the scheme is to promote interest among meritorious students in the field of science and provide them with financial assistance to pursue higher education.
Sharing details regarding eligibility and other guidelines, the spokesperson said that interested students can visit the official website of the Directorate of Science and Technology, Haryana, at https://dst.highereduhry.ac.in and access the scheme guidelines through the 'Student' tab.
Students can also apply directly through the portal https://harchhatravratti.highereduhry.ac.in. They are required to first register themselves under the 'Student' tab and subsequently submit their online applications.
The web portal will remain open for submission of online applications from November 12, 2026, to January 12, 2027.
The spokesperson urged all eligible students to complete their applications on the portal within the stipulated deadline.
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*Haryana to Allot 2,651 Fair Price Shops Across State*
*Deadline for online applications extended to November 25, 2026*
*33 per cent reservation for women to promote entrepreneurship and economic empowerment*
Chandigarh, November 11- The Haryana Government has decided to allot licences for 2,651 vacant Fair Price Shops (FPS) across the state to improve access to subsidised foodgrains for eligible families and strengthen the Public Distribution System (PDS).
The Food, Civil Supplies and Consumer Affairs Department has extended the deadline for submitting online applications for these shops to November 25, 2026, providing additional time to interested applicants. The earlier deadline was November 10, 2026.
Giving details, an official spokesperson said the initiative would particularly benefit residents of remote and underserved areas where existing ration depots are located at considerable distances. The allocation of new Fair Price Shops would make essential food supplies more accessible while creating self-employment opportunities for eligible applicants.
The spokesperson said that 33 percent reservation has been provided for women in the allotment process, reflecting the state government's emphasis on promoting women's economic participation and entrepreneurship at the grassroots level.
*Applications Open Through Antyodaya SARAL Portal*
The spokesperson said eligible applicants can submit their applications online through the Haryana Antyodaya SARAL Portal at https://saralharyana.gov.in until November 25, 2026. The online application portal was launched by the Chief Minister of Haryana on October 10, 2026, to facilitate the allotment process.
Detailed guidelines, eligibility criteria and application instructions are available on the department's official website, https://haryanafood.gov.in.
The spokesperson further said that district-wise and village-wise details of vacant Fair Price Shops can also be accessed through the departmental website and the websites of the respective district administrations.
The department has urged eligible youth and women to take advantage of the extended application window and complete the online process well before the revised deadline.
The initiative is expected to improve the reach and efficiency of the Public Distribution System, ensure easier access to essential foodgrains for eligible households and generate additional livelihood opportunities across Haryana.
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Haryana Chief Minister, Sh. Nayab Singh Saini redressing the grievances of the people
CHANDIGARH, 11.11.26-Haryana Chief Minister, Sh. Nayab Singh Saini redressing the grievances of the people at his residence Sant Kabir Kutir in Chandigarh on November 11, 2026.
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*Set Up Separate Corporation to Expedite Tendering for Development Works- Chief Minister*
*Chief Minister reviews department-wise expenditure under current budget ahead of preparations for next financial year*
*Government accords top priority to spending on development works and public welfare schemes, says Nayab Singh Saini*
Chandigarh, November 11- Haryana Chief Minister Sh. Nayab Singh Saini has directed that a separate corporation be established on the lines of Singapore’s model to expedite the tendering process for major development works. The corporation would ensure timely completion of the tendering process for large and important projects across departments, accelerating development and ensuring proper utilisation of budgetary allocations.
The Chief Minister gave these directions while chairing a meeting at the Haryana Civil Secretariat on Wednesday to review department-wise expenditure during the current financial year as part of preparations for the next financial year’s budget. Reviewing expenditure against the allocations made to each department, he directed officers to expedite development works to ensure proper utilisation of the allocated funds before the close of the current financial year.
Taking note of delays in tendering in some departments, the Chief Minister directed that, depending on the nature of development works, options such as establishing a new corporation, empanelling consultancy firms and hiring township consultants be adopted. He said officers of major departments should prepare and implement an appropriate plan under the chairmanship of the Chief Secretary.
He said routing the process, from the preparation of tender documents to the award of tenders, through the corporation and expert consultants would help departments complete tendering more quickly and ensure that the benefits of development works reach the public sooner.
The Chief Minister said the present State Government is working with commitment to accelerate development, ensure effective implementation of public welfare schemes and strengthen infrastructure across the state. The state’s total budget estimate for 2026–27 stands at Rs 2,23,658 crore, an increase of 9.1 per cent over the budget estimate for 2025–26. He said approximately 95 per cent of the budget was spent last year and directed officers to aim for full utilisation of the funds allocated during the current financial year.
In the meeting, it was informed that 13 departments had spent more than 50 per cent of their annual budget provisions. The Department of Economic and Statistical Affairs led with expenditure of 91.8 per cent, followed by the Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises Department at 73.7 per cent, the Energy Department at 72.9 per cent, the Public Works (Buildings and Roads) Department at 68.6 per cent, the Social Justice and Empowerment Department at 63.2 percent and the Public Health Engineering Department at 62.9 per cent.
Similarly, the Police Department had spent 61 per cent of its budget, the Transport Department 58.7 per cent, the Secondary Education Department 55.7 percent and the Higher Education Department 51.9 per cent. Funds were also being effectively utilised in key sectors such as Health, Medical Education and Research, and Primary Education. The pace of expenditure is expected to increase significantly as ongoing works are completed.
The Chief Minister directed all departments to work proactively to ensure proper utilisation of budgetary allocations for development works. He also emphasised that there must be no compromise on the quality of construction.
Sh. Nayab Singh Saini said he would review budget expenditure again at the end of December and directed that every department achieve at least 90 per cent expenditure by then.
He said Rs 100 crore had been received from the Central Government under the AMRUT scheme and directed officers to proactively ensure effective utilisation of these funds to accelerate urban development.
The Chief Minister expressed satisfaction that incidents of stubble burning in the state had been negligible this year. He also expressed satisfaction over figures indicating higher sugarcane production than last year and an increase in sugar production.
Keeping the forthcoming Commonwealth and Olympic Games in view, the Chief Minister directed that two to three sports stadiums conforming to international standards be developed in the state. He also reviewed the construction of stadiums at the Sports University in Rai and for persons with disabilities at Daulatabad in Gurugram, and issued necessary directions.
Sh. Nayab Singh Saini said the State Government seeks to ensure that every rupee provided in the budget is utilised with transparency, accountability and a commitment to public welfare, giving fresh impetus to the state’s overall development and realising the vision of Viksit Haryana.
Chief Secretary Sh. Anurag Rastogi, Additional Chief Secretaries Dr. G. Anupama, Sh. A. K. Singh and Sh. Vijayendra Kumar, Principal Secretaries Sh. Pankaj Yadav and Sh. Vijay Singh Dahiya; Commissioners and Secretaries Dr. Amit Kumar Agrawal and Sh. C. G. Rajini Kaanthan, Director General, Haryana Institute of Fiscal Management, Dr. Raj Nehru and officers from other departments attended the meeting.
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*Haryana's J.C. Bose University and Romania’s Technical University of Cluj-Napoca Chart a Path to a Dual Degree and European Mobility*
*Strategic European Collaboration Covers Exchange Scholarships, Joint Incubation, and Reciprocal Technical Training*
Chandigarh, November 11 — Students of J.C. Bose University of Science & Technology, YMCA, Faridabad, will soon have a direct pathway to complete half of their engineering degree in the European Union.
A delegation comprising University's Registrar Prof. Ajay Ranga and Prof. Sanjeev Goyal, currently on an ongoing European outreach visit, has finalized a roadmap with the Technical University of Cluj-Napoca in Romania for dual degrees, exchange programmes, scholarships, and joint innovation programmes.
Under the agreed framework, the two universities will launch a 2 + 2 dual degree programme in Computer Engineering and Mechanical Engineering. Participating students will complete two years of study in Faridabad and two years at Cluj-Napoca, earning recognized degrees from both institutions.
Subject to administrative approvals, the first cohort of about 15 students is targeted for the upcoming academic session. To keep international education affordable, the Romanian University has offered scholarships covering accommodation and meals for short-term student exchanges. Besides, exploring fund support to bring tuition down to nominal levels for selected students of J.C. Bose University.
Vice-Chancellor Prof. Sanjay Kaushik commended the international collaboration, stating that the partnership opens transformative global avenues for students for academic excellence, research and innovation, giving them access to top-tier European technical education while strengthening the university's global academic footprint. The proposed dual degree and joint innovation initiatives will also help our students develop a global outlook, he added.
The collaboration also establishes reciprocal academic mobility, bringing Romanian engineering students to the Faridabad campus for specialized training in anti-drone technology, electronic warfare, and artificial intelligence data centres. Also, a joint incubation programme will enable European student innovators to participate in two-week workshops in Haryana, gaining direct mentorship from J.C. Bose University's alumni network, industry leaders, and potential investors.
During the visit, the University delegation held strategic discussions with TUCN Rector Prof. Vasile Țopa, Dean of Automation and Computer Science Prof. Vlad Mureșan, and International Relations Director Prof. Nicolae Vlad Burnete, The Rector of TUCN, Prof. Vasile Țopa expressed strong interest in taking this partnership forward. Both technical universities also agreed to submit joint proposals under the Erasmus+ initiative to secure European research funding and facilitate faculty exchanges.
Registrar Prof. Ajay Ranga highlighted that both institutions will now align their credit structures and academic calendars to build a strong foundation for the formal agreement. Prof. Sanjeev Goyal added that the initiative allows students in Haryana to earn an internationally recognized European qualification at a fraction of the typical cost, bringing global exposure directly within their reach.
The delegation's ongoing European tour also encompasses academic engagements in Germany and Hungary, continuing a proud legacy that dates back to the university's inception in 1969 as an Indo-German collaboration. Final Senate approvals and curriculum alignment will take place in the coming months prior to the formal signing of the Memorandum of Understanding.
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*CM Nayab Singh Saini Reviews Infrastructure and Energy Projects, Directs Officials to Expedite Completion*
*Contractors Delaying Projects Will Face Penalties; Those Showing Negligence Will Not Be Awarded Future Works*
*Major Projects Worth Over Rs. 75 Crore Reviewed at 14th State PRAGATI Portal Meeting Chaired by Chief Minister*
Chandigarh, November 11 – Haryana Chief Minister Sh. Nayab Singh Saini directed officials to ensure that all major development projects are completed within the stipulated timelines while maintaining high quality standards. He made it clear that unnecessary delays or negligence in the execution of projects would not be tolerated. Contractors responsible for delays in project execution must be penalised as per rules. Furthermore, contractors who repeatedly delay works or fail to adhere to prescribed standards should not be awarded any new projects in the future.
The Chief Minister was chairing the 14th high-level review meeting of the State PRAGATI Portal (SPP), in Chandigarh on Wednesday. The meeting reviewed in detail the progress of major infrastructure and energy sector projects worth more than Rs. 75 crore currently underway in the state. He directed officials of all departments to work in close coordination and resolve bottlenecks affecting projects on priority so that development works could be completed on time.
*Review of Gurugram Global City and Shri Krishna AYUSH University*
During the review of the Gurugram Global City Project (Phase-I), officials informed the Chief Minister that the project was progressing smoothly. To strengthen connectivity and basic infrastructure in the area, tenders for roads connecting the project with Pataudi Road and the Central Peripheral Road (CPR) have been completed, along with other administrative formalities.
Similarly, the project related to the establishment of Shri Krishna AYUSH University, Kurukshetra, was also reviewed. Officials informed the Chief Minister that the tender for the project, being implemented through the Haryana State Industrial and Infrastructure Development Corporation (HSIIDC), had been issued and an agreement had also been signed with the contractor.
*Industrial Infrastructure Development Works in Sohna to Be Accelerated*
The progress of EMC Sohna and IMT Sohna was also reviewed during the meeting. Officials informed the Chief Minister that 77 per cent progress had been achieved in the EMC Sohna project. Construction of roads and other basic infrastructure facilities was progressing rapidly.
Meanwhile, 70 per cent progress had been achieved in the IMT Sohna project. Construction of the water works tower and major roads was nearing completion. Completion of these projects will boost industrial activities in the region and provide better infrastructure facilities to investors.
*Review of Works to Strengthen the Power Distribution System*
The Chief Minister also reviewed the energy projects underway in various parts of the state under the Revamped Distribution Sector Scheme (RDSS). Officials informed him that 93 per cent of the works related to reducing power distribution losses in the Sohna Division had been completed.
In Karnal, 61 per cent of the work involving the installation of transformers and H-poles under the AP Connection and VGS schemes had been completed. Similarly, progress of works being undertaken under RDSS in the Panchkula Zone stood at 65.69 per cent. These works primarily focus on replacing old power lines and enhancing the capacity of the electricity distribution system.
Additionally, the work to augment the capacity of 46 existing 33/11 kV substations in various districts under DHBVN had achieved 65 per cent progress. This will improve the capacity and quality of power supply, ensuring better electricity services for consumers.
*Review of Progress of IMT Kharkhoda and Hisar Manufacturing Cluster*
The meeting also reviewed the ongoing development works at IMT Kharkhoda. Officials informed the Chief Minister that construction of infrastructure facilities, including the master stormwater drainage system, was underway. Dewatering technology was being used during the execution of works to regulate the groundwater level.
During the review of the Integrated Manufacturing Cluster (IMC), Hisar, officials informed the Chief Minister that environmental clearance for the project had been obtained and the financial bids for the EPC tender were under evaluation. The cluster will play an important role in giving a major boost to the development of key industrial sectors, including aviation and defence.
The Chief Minister said that strengthening infrastructure and accelerating industrial development in the state were among the government's top priorities. He directed all departments to ensure regular monitoring of projects and their completion within the stipulated timelines. Reiterating his commitment to quality, he said that no compromise would be made on the quality of development works and strict action would be taken against agencies responsible for delays.
Timely completion of these projects will create new avenues for investment and employment in the state while ensuring better facilities for citizens.
Chief Secretary Sh. Anurag Rastogi, Additional Chief Secretary, Finance and Planning Department, Sh. Sudhir Rajpal, Principal Secretary, Civil Aviation Department, Sh. Vijay Singh Dahiya, Commissioner and Secretary, Industries and Commerce Department, Dr. Amit Kumar Agrawal, Director General, AYUSH Department, Sh. Sanjeev Verma, Director General, Civil Aviation Department, Sh. Anshaj Singh, Managing Director, Haryana State Industrial and Infrastructure Development Corporation (HSIIDC), Sh. Vinay Pratap Singh, Special Secretary, Energy Department, Sh. Vikram, Deputy Principal Secretary to the Chief Minister, Dr. Yashpal Yadav, and other senior officers were present in the meeting.
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*Special Courts to Be Set Up in Hisar, Faridabad, Palwal, Rohtak and Bhiwani for Speedy Disposal of Cases*
*Chief Minister directs filing of chargesheets within 60 days in all SC/ST cases to ensure justice*
*Haryana records nearly 28 per cent decline in SC/ST-related cases*
Chandigarh, November 11- Haryana Chief Minister Sh. Nayab Singh Saini has issued firm directions to police and administrative officers to ensure speedy justice for citizens belonging to the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (SC/ST) and effectively curb crimes against them. He said chargesheets must be filed in court within the stipulated period of 60 days in every SC/ST-related case, with full compliance across all cases. Negligence, laxity or dereliction at any level in securing justice for victims would not be tolerated, he said.
The Chief Minister was chairing a meeting of the State-Level Vigilance and Monitoring Committee in Chandigarh to review the implementation of the provisions of the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, 1989, and the Protection of Civil Rights Act, 1955. Social Justice and Empowerment Minister Sh. Krishan Kumar Bedi was also present.
*Nearly 28 Per Cent Decline in SC/ST-Related Cases*
Director General of Police Sh. Ajay Singhal informed the Chief Minister that the state had recorded a decline of nearly 28 per cent in SC/ST-related cases. He said the requirement to file chargesheets within 60 days was being effectively implemented in accordance with the Chief Minister’s instructions, and every effort was being made to achieve full compliance.
In the meeting, it was informed that action had been taken against 10 police personnel for negligence in securing justice for victims. Senior officers have also been appointed as nodal officers at the district and subdivision levels to regularly monitor the progress, investigation and timely disposal of cases.
The Chief Minister said efforts in this direction needed to be strengthened further. Alongside reducing crime, securing justice for victims and preventing the recurrence of such incidents were equally important, he said.
*Special Courts to Be Established in Five Districts*
To expedite the disposal of SC/ST-related cases, the Chief Minister directed that special courts be established in Hisar, Faridabad, Palwal, Rohtak and Bhiwani. He said these courts should facilitate faster hearings so that victims do not have to wait long for justice. The process of establishing the special courts should be expedited, he added.
*Closer Monitoring of Districts and Police Stations Reporting More Cases*
The Chief Minister directed that special drives be undertaken in districts reporting relatively higher numbers of SC/ST-related cases to conduct detailed reviews. He said the underlying causes should be identified, local conditions analysed and concrete corrective measures taken to prevent such incidents from recurring.
He specifically directed that police stations registering higher numbers of such cases be identified separately and placed under close monitoring by senior officers. Police activity should be stepped up in the areas concerned, and effective action ensured at sensitive locations. Long-pending cases should also be disposed of expeditiously on priority.
The Chief Minister said panchayats where no such case had been registered in the past two years should be encouraged. He said the Panchayat Department should submit the names of these panchayats so that they could be recognised and encouraged.
He said the Haryana Government is committed to social justice, equality and the dignity and safety of every citizen. Ensuring justice for citizens belonging to the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes is the government’s responsibility. He directed officers to handle these cases with sensitivity, promptness and accountability, ensuring that no victim faces an unnecessary wait for justice.
The Chief Minister also directed that meetings at the district and subdivision levels be held regularly within the prescribed timelines and that cases pending at the district level be disposed of expeditiously on priority.
The meeting was informed that financial assistance of Rs 13.49 crore had been provided so far in 2026–27 for the relief and rehabilitation of 1,046 victims of atrocities. In addition, 418 beneficiaries had received financial assistance of Rs 10.45 crore under the Mukhyamantri Samajik Samrasta Antarjatiya Vivah Shagun Yojana during the current financial year. The Chief Minister described the scheme as a commendable initiative to promote social harmony.
Speech, writing and debate competitions, along with seminars, are also being organised in schools and colleges to raise awareness about the prevention of atrocities.
MLAs Dr Krishan Kumar, Sh. Bhagwan Dass Kabirpanthi, Sh. Jarnail Singh, Sh. Shishpal Keharwala, Sh. Pawan Kharkhoda, Smt. Bimla Chaudhary and Sh. Kapoor Singh Valmiki, Smt. Banto Kataria, Additional Chief Secretary, Home Department, Sh. Sudhir Rajpal, Additional Chief Secretary, SEWA Department, Smt. G. Anupama, Director General of Police, Sh. Ajay Singhal, Director, Information, Public Relations and Languages Department, Dr. Aditya Dahiya, Director, SEWA Department, Sh. Mukul Kumar, and several other official and non-official members remained present on this occasion.