Projects worth Rs 342 Crore approved for cleanliness and beautification drive across multiple cities in Haryana

HPWPC meeting held under the chairmanship of Chief Minister, Rs11.90 crore saved through negotiations with bidders

CM instructs transparent, time-bound tender process for all civil works

‘Clean Haryana – Beautiful Haryana’ is our priority: CM

Chandigarh, August 12 – Haryana Chief Minister Sh Nayab Singh Saini today directed officials to ensure that the tendering process for civil works in the state is fully transparent, efficient and time-bound to accelerate cleanliness, beautification and infrastructure development in urban areas. He instructed that a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) be prepared for the tender process, with clearly defined timelines and responsibilities for each stage, to eliminate unnecessary delays and ensure timely execution of projects.

The Chief Minister was presiding over a meeting of the High Powered Works Purchase Committee (HPWPC) in Panchkula concerning the implementation of various projects in urban local bodies. Urban Local Bodies Minister Sh Vipul Goyal was also present. The committee approved projects worth approximately Rs 342 crore. Through rate negotiations with various bidders, savings of about Rs11.90 crore were achieved.

Emphasizing strict adherence to quality standards, the Chief Minister said that no compromise on quality will be tolerated in development works. He directed that contractors delivering excellent and high-quality work should be honored periodically to encourage healthy competition and commitment. At the same time, strict action should be taken against agencies or contractors found negligent or performing substandard work.

In the meeting, projects worth Rs 15.30 crore were approved for the development and beautification of road stretches, beautification of parks, and chowks under the Divya Nagar Yojana in Karnal Municipal Corporation. These works will not only provide citizens with improved public spaces but will also enhance their quality of life through a cleaner and more attractive environment. Similarly, development works worth Rs 13.92 crore were sanctioned for the Dairy Complex on Kanheli Road in Rohtak.

In addition, projects costing Rs13.50 crore were approved for the redevelopment of the Shree Mata Sheetla Devi Shrine Complex in Gurugram. These works would promote religious tourism and provide devotees with a clean, well-maintained and convenient environment.

Placing a special emphasis on cleanliness, the committee also approved several projects related to door-to-door garbage collection, segregation, transporation and processing of waste. These include approvals of Rs 9.18 crore for Narwana Municipal Council, Rs 85.90 crore for Municipal Corporation Rohtak, Rs 21.97 crore for Municipal Corporation Yamunanagar, Rs 10.45 crore for Fatehabad Municipal Council, Rs 56.95 crore for Municipal Corporation Hisar, Rs 64 crore for Municipal Corporation Manesar and Rs 9.35 crore for Tohana Municipal Council. In addition, Rs 25.96 crore was approved for processing of municipal solid waste in Rohtak Municipal Corporation and Rs 15.28 crore for the bio-remediation of legacy waste in Rewari Municipal Council.

The Chief Minister said that the beautification and solid waste management systems in urban areas should be made more modern, efficient and result-oriented to achieve the goal of Clean Haryana – Beautiful Haryana at a faster pace. For this, accountability should be ensured at every level.

Principal Secretary to Chief Minister Arun Kumar Gupta, Director General, Supplies and Disposal Department, Pankaj as well as the Commissioners of the concerned Municipal Corporations and District Municipal Commissioners were also present in the meeting.

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Amrapali’ Campaign Connects Society with Environment and Tradition: Dr. Agrawal

Releases ‘Amrapali’ Souvenir

Chandigarh, August 12 – Commissioner and Secretary, Haryana Information, Public Relations and Languages department, Dr. Amit Agrawal, said that the ‘Amrapali’ campaign connects society with both the environment and tradition, thereby strengthening the foundation of our cultural values.

Dr. Agrawal was addressing the gathering as the Chief Guest at the release ceremony of the ‘Amrapali’ souvenir here today. Earlier, Dr. Amit Agrawal along with Additional Director, Smt. Varsha Khangwal formally released the souvenir, which has been published by Maharani Lakshmi Bai College, Bhiwani Rohilla, Hisar.

Commending the efforts of the college’s principal, Dr.Shamim Sharma, Dr.Agrawal said that the ‘Amrapali’ campaign’ – will not only help restore ecological balance but will also contribute to the economic prosperity of farmers.

Appreciating the establishment of Maharani Lakshmi Bai College in a rural area, Dr.Agrawal said that this will make higher education more accessible for girls in villages. The state government is committed to girls’ education and is opening women’s colleges at every 20-kilometre distance. Today, daughters of Haryana are excelling in every field be it sports, academics, or any other domain, they are making their mark everywhere. he added.

Additional Director, Information, Public Relations and Languages Department Smt. Varsha Khangwal, said that the ‘Amrapali’ campaign is an inspiration for society and a reminder of our responsibility towards the environment. Heritage is not just about land, it is also about greenery. It is our responsibility that the lush, green environment we have inherited from our ancestors must be passed on with honour to the next generation.

Principal, Dr. Shamim Sharma said that the journey of the ‘Amrapali’ campaign—from an idea to a fully grown initiative. She said that the campaign began by motivating some students to plant mango saplings.

Director, Haryana Sahitya Academy, Dr. Chander Trikha, Joint Director, Information, Public Relations and Language Department, Smt. Urvashi Rangara, Joint Director, Information, Public Relations and Language Department, Sh. Raj Singh Kadyan, Director, Maharani Laxmibai College, Dr. Neelam Prabha and others remained present during the occasion.

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Governor Prof. Ashim Kumar Ghosh to hoist the National Flag in Ambala, CM Nayab Singh Saini in Rohtak

Chandigarh, August 12 – On the occasion of Independence Day on August 15, Haryana Governor Prof. Ashim Kumar Ghosh will hoist the national flag in Ambala, while Chief Minister Sh. Nayab Singh Saini will hoist the flag in Rohtak. Energy Minister Sh. Anil Vij will join the Governor in Ambala for the flag hoisting ceremony.

According to a letter issued by Chief Secretary Sh. Anurag Rastogi, flag hoisting across the state will take place at 9:00 AM.

Haryana Vidhan Sabha Speaker Sh. Harvinder Kalyan will hoist the flag in Panipat, while Deputy Speaker Dr. Krishan Kumar Middha will do so in Sonipat.

Development & Panchayat Minister Sh. Krishan Lal Panwar will hoist the flag in Thanesar/Kurukshetra, Industries Minister Rao Narbir Singh in Rewari, School Education Minister Sh. Mahipal Dhanda in Kaithal, and Revenue & Disaster Management Minister Sh. Vipul Goel in Mahendragarh.

Similarly, Cooperation Minister Sh. Arvind Kumar Sharma will be the chief guest in Karnal, Agriculture & Farmers’ Welfare Minister Sh. Shyam Singh Rana in Gurugram, and Public Health Engineering Minister Sh. Ranbir Gangwa in Fatehabad.

Social Justice & Empowerment, Scheduled Castes & Backward Classes Welfare, and Antyodaya Minister Sh. Krishan Kumar will hoist the flag in Hisar; Women & Child Development Minister Smt. Shruti Choudhry in Panchkula; and Health Minister Arti Singh Rao in Nuh.

Minister of State for Food, Civil Supplies & Consumer Affairs Sh. Rajesh Nagar will hoist the flag in Sirsa, and Minister of State for Youth Empowerment & Entrepreneurship Sh. Gaurav Gautam will do so in Faridabad.

In Ambala district, the Divisional Commissioner will hoist the flag in Naraiangarh, and MLA Nikhil Madan (Sonipat) will do so in Barara. In Bhiwani district, MLA Ghanshyam Sarraf will hosit the flag in Loharu, MP Kiran Choudhry (Rajya Sabha) in Bhiwani, the Sub-Divisional Officer (Civil) in Tosham, and MLA Kapoor Singh in Siwani. MLA Umed Singh will hoist the flag in Badhra, and MP Dharambir Singh in Charkhi Dadri.

In Faridabad district, Badhkal MLA Dhanesh Adlakha and Ballabgarh MLA Mool Chand Sharma will participate in programmes. In Fatehabad district, Zila Parishad Chairperson Suman Khichad will hoist the flag in Tohana, and MP Subhash Barala (Rajya Sabha) in Ratia. In Gurugram district, MLA Bimla Chaudhary will hoist the flag in Pataudi, MLA Laxman Singh Yadav in Badshahpur, MLA Mukesh Sharma in Manesar, and MLA Tejpal Tanwar in Sohna. In Hisar district, MLA Randhir Panihar will hoist the flag in Narnaund, MLA Vinod Bhayana in Hansi, and MLA Savitri Jindal in Barwala.

In Jhajjar district, MLA Rajesh Joon will hoist the flag in Bahadurgarh, MP Kartikeya Sharma (Rajya Sabha) in Badli, MP Ram Chander Jangra (Rajya Sabha) in Jhajjar and MLA Sunil Satpal Sangwan in Beri. Divisional Commissioner of Hisar will hoist the flag in Julana of Jind district, MLA Ram Kumar Gautam in Safidon, MP Rekha Sharma (Rajya Sabha) in Jind, MLA Devender Chatar Bhuj Atri in Uchana and Zila Parishad President Manisha Rani in Narwana. In Kaithal, MLA Satpal Jamba will hoist the flag in Guhla while Zila Parishad President Karambir Kaul will do so in Kalayat.

MLA Bhagwana Dass will hoist the flag in Nilokheri of Karnal district, MLA Ram Kumar Kashyap in Indri, MLA Jagmohan Anand in Gharaunda and MLA Yoginder Singh Rana in Assandh. Sub-Divisional Officer (Civil) will hoist the flag in Ladwa of Kurukshetra district, Zila Parishad President Kanwaljeet Kaur in Shahabad and MLA Parmod Kumar Vij in Pehowa.

MLA Om Prakash Yadav will be the chief guest at Narnaul, MLA Kanwar Singh at Kanina and Divisional Commissioner of Gurugram at Nangal Chaudhary. Divisional Commissioner of Faridabad will hoist the flag at Ferozepur Jhirka in Nuh district, Zila Parishad President Jan Mohammad at Tauru and Sub Divisional Officer (Civil) at Punhana. Zila Parishad President Rekha will be the chief guest at Hathin, MLA Harinder Singh at Hodal and MLA Satish Kumar Phagna at Palwal.

MLA Shakti Rani Sharma will hoist the flag at Kalka in Panchkula district. Sub Divisional Officer (Civil) will do so at Israna in Panipat district while MLA Manmohan Bhadana will hoist the flag at Samalkha. MLA Dr. Krishan Kumar will be the chief guest at Bawal, MLA Anil Yadav at Kosli, Divisional Commissioner of Rohtak at Meham and Zila Parishad President Manju Hooda at Sampla.

Sub-divisional officers (civil) will hoist the flag in Kalanwali, Dabwali and Ellenabad of Sirsa district, MLA Devender Kadyan in Ganaur, MLA Pawan Kharkhauda in Kharkhauda and MLA Krishna Gehlawat in Gohana.

Zila Parishad Chairman Ramesh Chand will hoist the national flag in Bilaspur of Yamunanagar district, MLA Ghanshyam Das Arora in Jagadhri, MP Naveen Jindal in Yamunanagar and Sub-divisional Officer (civil) in Chhachharauli and Radaur.

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CM Nayab Singh Saini flags off ‘Tiranga Yatra’ from Chandigarh to Kashmir’s Lal Chowk

Over 100 girl students lead historic ‘Tiranga Yatra’ to Kashmir

‘Operation Sindoor’ showcased courage of India’s daughters: Nayab Singh Saini

‘Naya Bharat’ is strong, self-reliant and moving forward at a rapid pace under PM Modi’s leadership: CM

Chandigarh, August 12 – Haryana Chief Minister Sh. Nayab Singh Saini today flagged off a ‘Tiranga Yatra’ from Sant Kabir Kutir, Chandigarh, which will travel through Punjab and reach Kashmir’s historic Lal Chowk. The yatra, organised by the Media Student Association, aims to foster unity, promote respect for the national flag and strengthen bonds of brotherhood across the country. The yatra will culminate on August 18.

The Chief Minister also paid floral tributes to the portrait of ‘Bharat Mata’. Speaking on the occasion, Sh. Nayab Singh Saini congratulated the office-bearers and members of the association, especially more than 100 girl students participating in the march. “This entire yatra is being led and managed by girl students. When our daughters take the lead in any campaign, it gains sensitivity, determination and resolve manifold. This journey showcases not only the strength and courage of Haryana’s daughters but also represents the power of women across the nation. I wish all the girls a bright future ahead,” he said.

The Chief Minister said under the leadership of Prime Minister Sh. Narendra Modi, constant efforts are being made for women empowerment in the last 11 years by the government. He also mentioned that the recent ‘Operation Sindoor’ was a testament to India’s resolve to protect its sovereignty. India’s two daughters, Wing Commander Vyomika Singh and Colonel Sophia Qureshi, led from the front and informed the nation about ‘Operation Sindoor with courage and pride, he added.

He said it is the firm resolve of Prime Minister Sh. Narendra Modi that anyone who dares to harm India will be met with a fitting response from our brave soldiers. Today’s India is a ‘Naya Bharat’—strong, self-reliant and moving forward at a rapid pace under the Prime Minister’s leadership.

Highlighting the significance of the Tricolour, the Chief Minister said the ‘Tiranga’ is in our hearts, in our actions, and it is our pride. It is a priceless legacy of sacrifice and patriotism from our ancestors. He further said that after three days, the nation will celebrate Independence Day on August 15 with great enthusiasm and patriotic spirit, and extended his heartfelt wishes to everyone for Independence Day.

The event echoed with patriotic chants of ‘Bharat Mata Ki Jai’, ‘Vande Mataram’, and ‘Jai Hind’.

OSD to Chief Minister, Sh. Bharat Bhushan Bharti, members of the Media Student Association and other senior officials were present on the occasion.

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Infrastructure boost in Haryana as HPWPC approves projects worth Rs. 523 crore

Faridabad to get Rs.58 crore 45 MLD STP and Tertiary Treatment Plant; Rs. 25 crore sanctioned for Water Supply Project

Rs.104.95 crore approved for Master Storm Water Drain in Gurugram Sectors 76–80

Rs.48 crore to be spent on repair of Manesar–Palwal stretch of KMP expressway

CM directs timely completion of projects

Chandigarh, August 12 – In a significant move to strengthen public infrastructure and enhance basic amenities, the High Powered Works Purchase Committee (HPWPC) meeting chaired by Chief Minister, Sh. Nayab Singh Saini held on late Monday evening approved key projects worth Rs. 523 crore.The sanctioned works will give a major boost to water supply, sanitation, industrial infrastructure, traffic facilities, and overall industrial development in the state.

Transport Minister, Sh. Anil Vij, Education Minister, Sh. Mahipal Dhanda, Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare Minister, Sh. Shyam Singh Rana, Public Works (Building & Roads) Minister, Sh. Ranbir Gangwa, and Women and Child Development Minister, Smt. Shruti Choudhry. Negotiations with various bidders during the meeting resulted in cost savings of around Rs. 13 crore.

Approval was granted for the construction of a 45 MLD capacity Sewage Treatment Plant (STP) and Tertiary Treatment Unit at Badshahpur, Faridabad, with an estimated cost of Rs. 58 crore. This project will strengthen sanitation and water recycling efforts in urban areas.

To ensure smooth water supply, approval was also given for a contract to operate and maintain the Master Ranney Well Line. This includes maintenance and repair of 22 ranney wells, 160 tube wells, pumping machinery, electrical equipment, and other necessary infrastructure, costing approximately Rs. 25 crore.

For effective rainwater drainage, Rs. 104.95 crore was approved for constructing the Master Storm Water Drain in the new sectors 76–80 of Gurugram. Additionally, Rs. 48 crore was approved for the repair of the Manesar–Palwal stretch (approximately 60 km) of the KMP Expressway to strengthen road infrastructure.

In the industrial sector, approval was given for setting up a 3 MLD, CETP at HSIIDC Industrial Estate, Barwala, Panchkula, costing around Rs.17.50 crore, for pollution control and environmental protection. Similarly, a 10.5 MLD CETP at IMT, Faridabad to be built at a cost of Rs. 44 crore was also approved.

Furthermore, to strengthen storage infrastructure, Rs.15.85 crore was approved for establishing warehouses with a capacity of 37,884 metric tonnes and related works at the FSD complex in Mehu Wala, Fatehabad district. Furthermore, Rs. 30.44 crore was sanctioned for constructing a private ward and other works at Pandit Deen Dayal Upadhyaya University of Health Sciences, Kutel, Karnal.

The Chief Minister said that these projects will not only significantly improve basic infrastructure but also promote industrial growth, environmental protection, and public amenities. He directed officers to ensure time-bound and quality completion of works.

Chief Secretary, Sh. Anurag Rastogi, Additional Chief Secretary, Women and Child Development Department, Sh. Sudhir Rajpal, Principal Advisor, Urban Development, Sh. D.S Dhesi, Principal Secretary to Chief Minister, Sh. Arun Kumar Gupta, Commissioner and Secretary, Industries and Commerce Department, Dr. Amit Agrawal, Director General, Supply and Disposal Department, Sh. Pankaj, along with other officers were present in the meeting.

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Two IAS officers tansferred in Haryana

Chandigarh, August 12 – The Haryana Government has issued transfer and posting orders of two IAS officers with immediate effect.

Additional Chief Secretary of Cooperation Department and Personnel (Appointments) Department, and OSD to the proposed Haryana Revenue Enhancement Board, Sh. Vijayendra Kumar, has been given the additional charge of Additional Chief Secretary, Sainik and Ardh Sainik Welfare Department, Haryana.

Sh. Dusmanta Kumar Behera has been appointed as Secretary to the Governor of Haryana. He will also continue to hold the charge of Director General and Secretary, Development and Panchayats Department.

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*Haryana to Launch AgriStack Cell, Accelerate Digital Crop Survey and Farmer Registry*

Chandigarh, August 12 - Haryana Financial Commissioner Revenue (FCR), Dr. Sumita Misra outlined the state government’s ambitious plan for the full-scale implementation of the AgriStack initiative, including the establishment of a dedicated AgriStack Cell to oversee and coordinate its execution. FCR gave this information while presiding over a crucial meeting here today with departmental officers to discuss the implementation of the Haryana AgriStack initiative.

Dr. Misra emphasized the government's commitment to modernizing agricultural data management, stating that the digital crop survey will be completed within the next three months. This initiative also includes the launch of a comprehensive Farmer Registry to create an accurate and current database of all farmers in Haryana. To ensure successful implementation at the local level, master trainers will be trained in every district.

Chief Knowledge Officer and Advisor, Department of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare, Government of India, Shri Rajeev Chawla, highlighted AgriStack as a national-level program designed to transform Indian agriculture. He explained that the initiative is built on three core digital components: the Farmer Registry, geo-referencing of land parcels, and a Digital Crop Survey (DCS) for systematic crop data collection. With financial support from the Government of India, Haryana is set to receive significant incentives—up to Rs. 216 crore for complete farmer registration and up to Rs. 50 crore for conducting digital crop surveys in more than 80% of its villages. These funds will fast-track the state's digital agricultural transformation.

Dr. Misra stated that the AgriStack initiative will provide tangible benefits to farmers. A Farmer ID will soon be mandatory for receiving PM-KISAN scheme installments. The data from the Digital Crop Survey will be crucial for facilitating crop insurance claims, ensuring access to Price Support Scheme (PSS) benefits, and enabling farmers to avail of Minimum Support Price (MSP) protections. The digital platform will also enhance fertilizer distribution and improve disaster relief operations through timely data sharing with agencies like the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF). She further informed that Sh. Rahul Hooda, Special Secretary, Revenue & Disaster Management Department will be the nodal officer and head of AgriStack Cell.

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Haryana takes a Digital Leap in Heritage Preservation – Tourism Minister launches Archaeology and Museums Website

Chandigarh, August 12 – In a significant step towards heritage digitalization, Haryana Heritage and Tourism Minister, Dr. Arvind Kumar Sharma, on Tuesday launched the official website of the Haryana Archaeology and Museums Department (https://archaeology.haryana.gov.in/)— from his office at the Haryana Civil Secretariat.

Dr. Sharma said that this new platform is an excellent medium to present Haryana’s archaeological treasures and cultural richness to audiences across India and the world. This initiative reflects the successful integration of technology in heritage conservation. It will not only strengthen transparency and education but also encourage greater public participation, he said.

The Minister said that the website would play a key role in preserving the state’s heritage and showcasing it globally.

During the launch, Dr. Sharma also reviewed the progress of various departmental projects and directed officers to ensure their timely completion.

The Department Officers said that the newly launched website offers a comprehensive digital gateway to Haryana’s cultural and archaeological wealth. Visitors will find detailed information on state-protected monuments, archaeological sites, museums, excavations, and research publications. The site will also provide regular updates on departmental schemes, programmes, and activities.

Principal Secretary, Heritage and Tourism Department, Smt. Kala Ramachandran, Director, Archaeology and Museums, Sh. Amit Khatri and other senior officers also remained present on this occasion.

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Over 120 FIRs registered in Haryana this year over illegal abortion practices

ACS-Health Sudhir Rajpal chairs weekly meeting of State Task Force for Improving Sex Ratio in Haryana

Police, health officials must trace entire network behind PNDT violations: ACS-Health Sudhir Rajpal

Chandigarh, August 12 – Under the directions of Health and Family Welfare Minister Arti Singh Rao, the weekly meeting of the State Task Force (STF) for Improving Sex Ratio in Haryana was held under the chairmanship of Additional Chief Secretary, Health, Sh. Sudhir Rajpal here today. The meeting focused on intensifying efforts to curb illegal abortions and further improve the state's sex ratio under the ‘Beti Bachao-Beti Padhao’ campaign.

During the meeting, the Additional Chief Secretary emphasized the need for stringent enforcement against illegal abortions, instructing officials to take punitive measures, including revoking the licences of doctors found complicit. He said the state is implementing reverse tracking of all Medical Termination of Pregnancy (MTP) and abortion cases beyond 12 weeks, particularly where women already have one or more daughters. Over 120 FIRs have been registered across Haryana this year over illegal abortion practices, including illegal sale of MTP kits. Of these, challan has been presented in court in 39 cases while 47 cases are currently under investigation.

The Additional Chief Secretary directed that the CMOs in all districts be provided all the legal help along with active coordination with the police to ensure that all these cases can be taken to their logical conclusion in the courts and conviction can be ensured.

The Additional Chief Secretary called for better deployment of ANM and ASHA workers, with a special focus on urban areas. He directed the police to work closely with health officials during raids and to dismantle the entire network involved in sex determination and illegal abortions. For this, he emphasised tracing phone records and location history of accused persons.

The Additional Chief Secretary also directed that no Nodal Officer for PNDT in any district can be transferred without the permission of Director General, Health Services (DGHS). The DGHS will have the power to choose and appoint these nodal officers for all districts.

The Woman and Child Development Department informed that an awareness advertisement on the ‘Beti Bachao-Beti Padhao’ campaign is being aired in cinema halls across the state. A dedicated dashboard for Information, Education, and Communication (IEC) activities has also been created to monitor the activities being conducted under the campaign and it will be functional in the next one month.

Secretary, Health Department and Mission Director, National Health Mission, Sh. Rippudaman Singh Dhillon, and senior officers of various departments were present in the meeting.

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Media’s role crucial in strengthening democratic system: Harvinder Kalyan

Training workshop for media personnel organised by Haryana Vidhan Sabha

Chandigarh, August 12 - Haryana Vidhan Sabha Speaker Sh. Harvinder Kalyan said the media plays a vital role in strengthening the democratic system. He said the Vidhan Sabha discusses issues of the public and converts them into laws, and in this process, the media acts as a bridge between the public and the legislature.

Sh. Kalyan was addressing the gathering after inaugurating a training workshop for media personnel at Haryana Niwas, Chandigarh. He inaugurated the workshop by lighting the ceremonial lamp. The workshop, organised by the Haryana Vidhan Sabha, aimed to brief media personnel about the finer details of the Assembly’s proceedings.

He said there is no limit to learning. No matter how high we reach, there is always room for improvement and learning. This workshop is not just a formality but is intended to ensure the active and constructive participation of the media in the progress of the nation and the state.

He outlined that impartial and responsible reporting on important aspects of democracy such as policy-making, budget reviews, and discussions on public interest issues is the duty of the media. Stressing the importance of factual accuracy, respectful language, and a positive outlook, he said the media’s role in guiding society in the right direction is extremely important.

Sh. Kalyan informed that the workshop will provide detailed training to media representatives on various technical aspects, parliamentary traditions, legislative procedures, and the use of digital platforms. Referring to the “One Nation, One Legislature” concept and Haryana Vidhan Sabha’s digital transition initiatives, he underlined the media’s crucial role in making India a developed nation by 2047.

Speaking at the workshop, former Chief Secretary of Haryana and retired IAS officer, Smt. Keshni Anand Arora, said that having a clear goal in life is essential. Without a goal, one is like a ship without direction. She identified diligence, positive thinking and inner happiness as keys to success, stressing the need to set priorities, adopt a balanced approach, and maintain an optimistic mindset in every situation. Sharing experiences from her tenure, she explained how challenges provided her opportunities to work at the grassroots level and how positive thinking helps overcome difficulties. She noted that while the media faces many challenges, these can be overcome through positivity.

During the session, Sh. Chakshu Roy and Ms. Yashika Kedia from PRS Legislative Research shared insights with media personnel on various aspects to be considered while covering Parliament and Vidhan Sabha proceedings. Sh. Chakshu Roy explained the nuances of legislative privileges, stating that if the Speaker removes any statement or subject from the House proceedings, covering it amounts to a breach of privilege. Similarly, if any document is published before being placed on the table of the House, it also constitutes a breach. He advised that media personnel covering sessions should be mindful of such aspects so that the public can be accurately informed about proceedings.

In the second session, Dr. Gurmeet Singh, Professor of Hindi at Panjab University, said that media personnel must understand their limitations and work with honesty and impartiality. Using the example of press briefings, he likened them to a relay race where coordination is essential. He recommended that journalists study old documents to strengthen their technical knowledge before reporting on the legislature.

Senior journalist and Editor of Dainik Tribune Sh. Naresh Kaushal said the media’s role is multifaceted. Just as drivers must follow traffic rules, journalists—holding the “steering” of a pen or keyboard—must remain mindful of facts. He stressed the need for maintaining peace and harmony in society and likened the camera’s role to that of the journalist: both must follow certain rules while recording reality.

Senior journalist and Director of Haryana Sahitya and Sanskriti Academy Dr. Chandra Trikha said credibility is the most important ethic in today’s changing media environment. In the age of digital media, the language and style of presentation may change, but principles must remain intact. He advised maintaining balance and shared his experiences since beginning reporting in 1965, including covering Assembly sessions. Speaking about the growing role of AI, he emphasized the need to preserve credibility.

At the end of the programme, the speakers answered questions from the attending journalists.

Additional Director, Information, Public Relations and Languages Department, Smt. Varsha Khangwal; Haryana Vidhan Sabha Secretary Sh. Rajeev Prasad; Advisor to the Speaker, Sh. Ram Narayan Yadav; and a large number of journalists from various media organisations were also present on the occasion.

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State-Level HIV/AIDS Awareness Campaign Launched from Gurugram on International Youth Day

It is our duty to be informed and spread awareness on HIV/AIDS: Arti Singh Rao

Chandigarh, August 12 – Haryana Health Minister Arti Singh Rao appealed to the youth to stay aware about HIV/AIDS and dispel misconceptions related to it. She said with proper information, timely testing and necessary precautions, the disease can be treated. The minister urged the youth not to believe in rumours and to follow verified medical advice.

On the occasion of International Youth Day, a state-level programme was organised at Government Girls College, Gurugram, where the Health Minister lit the ceremonial lamp and inaugurated the state-wide Intensified Information, Education and Communication campaign on HIV/AIDS, to be run from August 12 to October 10. She also flagged off a motorcycle and auto rally.

The minister explained that the disease spreads through infected blood, unsafe sexual contact, contaminated needles, and from mother to child during childbirth or breastfeeding. Timely testing, proper treatment, and awareness are the best forms of prevention. She also informed that the Haryana Government is running special schemes to support people living with HIV/AIDS. Free treatment, counselling, and awareness programmes are being provided to help patients. Since April 1, 2021, the state has been implementing a special financial assistance scheme under which eligible beneficiaries receive ₹2,250 per month.

Arti Singh Rao emphasised that active participation of the youth can help build a strong public movement against this disease. She said it is everyone’s duty to be aware and to spread awareness among others, so that the message reaches every corner.

Pataudi MLA Bimla Chaudhary said youth are the backbone of the country and must remain vigilant about their own health and the health of society. She appealed to the youth to actively participate in the campaign and spread the message of awareness to every village.

Gurugram Civil Surgeon Dr. Alka Singh informed that under this campaign, various districts will host plays, dances, media workshops, exhibitions, and motorcycle rallies to spread accurate information among the youth. The campaign’s objective is not only to prevent the disease but also to raise awareness about the legal rights of people living with HIV and to eliminate discrimination against them in society.

She added that for any information, guidance, or assistance related to HIV/AIDS, people can contact the national helpline number 1097, where trained counsellors provide necessary support and information confidentially.

The event was attended by Health Department Director Dr. Brahmdeep; DGHS Dr. Manish Bansal; DGHS (P) Dr. Kuldeep Singh; Haryana State AIDS Control Society Project Director Dr. Sukhbir Singh; Deputy Civil Surgeon Gurugram Dr. Keshav and Dr. Anjana; Joint Director Ramkumar; Assistant Directors Harpreet and Rakhi; MODC Arun, and other officials.

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Chief Secretary Anurag Rastogi reviews progress of 18 projects worth over ₹100 crore

Projects to boost socio-economic growth and create employment opportunities in Haryana

Chandigarh, August 12 – Haryana Chief Secretary Sh. Anurag Rastogi today reviewed the progress of projects worth over ₹100 crore with administrative secretaries. During the meeting, detailed information was given about 18 projects from the Civil Aviation, Health & Family Welfare, Animal Husbandry & Dairying, Agriculture & Farmers Welfare, Industries & Commerce, and Power Departments, with a combined value of over ₹21,548 crore.

The Chief Secretary directed officials to promptly remove any obstacles in the execution of these projects. He also instructed regular monitoring to ensure timely completion. He said once these projects are completed, they will usher in a new era of socio-economic development in the state and bring meaningful improvements to people’s lives.

It was informed in the meeting that in the power sector, projects worth ₹8,197 crore are in progress in various districts. Under the Smart City programme, work on renovating existing 11 KV feeder lines in DHBVN’s Maruti and IDC sub-divisions in Gurugram is nearly complete. Similar renovation work is underway in the South City and Kadipur sub-divisions. Additionally, under the RDSS scheme, loss-reduction works are being undertaken in Rewari district, along with capacity augmentation of 33 KV substations in various DHBVNL circles. For long-term capacity enhancement, an 800 MW ultra-supercritical unit is being set up at the Deenbandhu Chhotu Ram Thermal Power Plant in Yamunanagar, which will strengthen power supply in the future.

The Industries & Commerce Department is executing projects worth ₹8,469 crore, including the Global City project, IMT Kharkhoda, IMT Sohna, EMC Sohna, and the Integrated Multi-Modal Logistics Hub. The latter is 95% complete. Once finished, these projects will position Haryana as a leading industrial and logistics hub in North India, boosting investment and generating large-scale employment.

In Hisar, 98% of the work on the Swarna Jayanti Integrated Aviation Hub, built at a cost of ₹1,205 crore, has been completed. Significant progress has been made on airport buildings and related infrastructure, with many components finished, including a 33 KV airport substation, an airside boundary wall, a perimeter road with security lights, 12 RCC watch towers, a temporary Air Traffic Control (ATC) facility, and expansion of the existing terminal. Additionally, work on the Phase-2 water supply system is expected to be completed by December 31, 2025.

It was also informed that tenders for the construction of Shri Krishna AYUSH University buildings in Kurukshetra, being set up at a cost of ₹500 crore, will soon be issued by HSIIDC.

Under the Animal Husbandry Department, projects worth over ₹215 crore are underway, including the construction of modern animal farms, poultry sheds, fodder storage facilities, and the establishment of a College of Veterinary Science at LUVAS in Hisar.

The Agriculture & Farmers’ Welfare Department is implementing major projects worth over ₹2,962 crore. The apple, fruit, and vegetable market at Pinjore is expected to be completed by October 31, 2025. Additionally, work is progressing rapidly on the International Institute of Hospitality Management at Ganaur and the Maharana Pratap Horticulture University campus in Karnal.

The meeting was attended by Additional Chief Secretary, Home Department, and Financial Commissioner, Revenue, Dr. Sumita Misra, Additional Chief Secretary, Energy Department, Sh. A.K. Singh, along with senior officers from the concerned departments. Commissioners, Secretaries, and Heads of various departments also joined the meeting through video conferencing.

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Haryana takes a Digital Leap in Heritage Preservation – Tourism Minister launches Archaeology and Museums Website

Chandigarh, August 12 – In a significant step towards heritage digitalization, Haryana Heritage and Tourism Minister, Dr. Arvind Kumar Sharma, on Tuesday launched the official website of the Haryana Archaeology and Museums Department (https://archaeology.haryana.gov.in/) — from his office at the Haryana Civil Secretariat.

Dr. Sharma said that this new platform is an excellent medium to present Haryana’s archaeological treasures and cultural richness to audiences across India and the world. This initiative reflects the successful integration of technology in heritage conservation. It will not only strengthen transparency and education but also encourage greater public participation, he said.

The Minister said that the website would play a key role in preserving the state’s heritage and showcasing it globally.

During the launch, Dr. Sharma also reviewed the progress of various departmental projects and directed officers to ensure their timely completion.

The Department Officers said that the newly launched website offers a comprehensive digital gateway to Haryana’s cultural and archaeological wealth. Visitors will find detailed information on state-protected monuments, archaeological sites, museums, excavations, and research publications. The site will also provide regular updates on departmental schemes, programmes, and activities.

Principal Secretary, Heritage and Tourism Department, Smt. Kala Ramachandran, Director, Archaeology and Museums, Sh. Amit Khatri and other senior officers also remained present on this occasion.