Chandigarh, March 17- Haryana Urban Local Bodies Minister, Sh. Vipul Goel said that the present State Government has taken firm action in a corruption case involving the Chairman of the Julana Municipal Committee.
Speaking during the ongoing Budget Session of the Haryana Vidhan Sabha, he informed the House that the State Vigilance and Anti-Corruption Bureau, Karnal, had registered an FIR against Sanjay Kumar on August 16, 2025. Acting promptly on the matter, the government placed him under suspension with immediate effect on the same day.
The Minister clarified that since the Chairman has already been suspended, dissolving the entire municipal body at this stage would not be appropriate.
He further stated that the government is committed to taking swift and effective action in corruption-related cases and assured that further action will be carried out strictly in accordance with the law.
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Chandigarh, March 17- Haryana Development and Panchayat Minister, Sh. Krishan Lal Panwar informed that an inter- departmental committee under the Chairmanship of Additional Deputy Commissioner-cum-Chief Executive Officer, Zila Parishad Rewari has been constituted to look into the issue and identify a probable solution for the construction of Liquid Waste Water Management Plant in Gram Panchayat Akera and Ghatal Mahaniyawas of Rewari Assembly Constituency.
The Minister was responding to a question raised by a member during the ongoing budget session of the Haryana Vidhan Sabha here today.
The Minister informed that the population of village Akeda is 5,814, and of village Ghatal Mahaniyawas is 4,629. Both villages are adjoining, and there is no available Gram Panchayat land nearby for necessary development works. However, as per provisions, if the population of a Gram Panchayat exceeds 10,000, it can be converted into a ‘Mahagram’, making it eligible for the installation of a sewerage system. Therefore, it has been proposed to club both villages and include them under the Mahagram category so that a sewerage system can be provided.
He further said that a committee comprising the Additional Deputy Commissioner-cum-Chief Executive Officer, Zila Parishad Rewari was constituted, which was assigned to submit its report within 15 days. A meeting of the committee was held on Monday, during which it was recommended that the Deputy Commissioner (DC) should also be included in the committee.
Regarding the issue of the pipeline, it was stated that further action will be taken based on the recommendations of the committee’s report.
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Chandigarh, March 17- Haryana Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare Minister, Sh. Shyam Singh Rana said that compensation has been released to 1,57,455 farmers whose bajra produce could not be sold at the Minimum Support Price (MSP).
The Minister was responding to a question raised by a member during the ongoing Budget Session of the Haryana Vidhan Sabha on Tuesday. He said that farmers who had to sell their produce below MSP have been compensated to offset the loss, with payments made at the rate of Rs.575 per quintal.
He further informed the House that payments of 601 farmers are still pending due to incorrect bank account details submitted at the time of registration. These farmers are being continuously contacted and advised to update their correct details on the ‘Meri Fasal Mera Byora’ portal. The pending amount will be released once the information is corrected.
The Minister also shared that for bajra procurement, more than 2.24 lakh J-forms were issued covering over 1.58 lakh farmers.
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Chandigarh, March 17- Haryana’s Irrigation and Water Resources Minister, Shruti Choudhry, informed the House that the government is planning to take significant steps to strengthen the irrigation system in the Assandh Assembly constituency. A proposal for the reconstruction of canals/minors located around villages Jaisinghpura, Malikpur, Duperi, Phafadana, Salwan, Kudlan, Uplana, Gangatehri, Popra, Danoli, and Aradana, which fall under the Assandh Assembly area, is under consideration by the government.
Smt. Choudhry stated that there is a possibility of receiving funds from the World Bank in the financial year 2026–27. After this, the reconstruction and repair work of 10 canals will begin. The work is expected to be completed within the next three years.
She added that this initiative of the government will not only strengthen the irrigation system in the region but also ensure a permanent solution to water-related problems faced by farmers.
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Chandigarh, March 17 - Haryana Health Minister, Ms. Arti Singh Rao informed that a de-addiction centre will be set up at the Community Health Centre in Tauru, falling under the Ferozepur Jhirka Vidhan Sabha constituency.
Responding to a question during the ongoing Budget Session of the Haryana Vidhan Sabha, she said that two government de-addiction centres are already operational in Nuh district, one at Shaheed Hasan Khan Mewati Medical College, Nalhar, with 10 beds, and another at the District Civil Hospital, Mandikhera, with 17 beds dedicated for such patients.
The Minister further shared that no deaths due to drug abuse have been reported in Nuh district since 2023. Highlighting the state’s anti-drug initiatives, she said that the “MANAS”– Madak Padarth Nishedh Asuchna Sahayata (National Narcotics Helpline 1933)
serves as a public reporting platform for drug-related activities, with inputs monitored by the Narcotics Control Bureau. The platform received 564 calls from across the state in 2025 and 163 calls so far in 2026, including 23 calls from Nuh in 2025 and 8 calls in 2026.
She further informed that the “Mukhyamantri Jagrit Gram Puraskar Yojana,” launched on April 24, 2025, aims to promote model villages and strengthen the role of gram panchayats. Under this scheme, panchayats excelling in sectors such as education, health, sanitation, women empowerment, agriculture, digital connectivity and sustainable infrastructure are rewarded. Villages contributing to drug prevention, curbing stubble burning, cleanliness and water conservation are given special recognition. Prize amounts of Rs. 51 lakh, Rs. 31 lakh and Rs. 21 lakh have been earmarked for first, second and third positions respectively, to be used for village development works.
She also highlighted the “Drug-Free Haryana Cyclothon 2.0,” launched on April 5, 2025, from Chaudhary Charan Singh Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar, which witnessed participation of around 4.5 lakh cyclists and covered all districts of the state. The campaign reached Nuh on April 9, with the participation of about 2,000 cyclists, and later progressed through Faridabad and Gurugram, spreading awareness against drug abuse.
The Minister added that monitoring of chemist shops and drug distribution systems has been strengthened by the Food and Drug Administration. Under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, a one-year ban effective from September 5, 2025, has been imposed on the manufacture, storage, distribution and sale of flavoured tobacco products such as gutkha and pan masala in the interest of public health.
She further informed that 20,788 inspections have been carried out across the state, resulting in cancellation of 81 licences, partial cancellation of 18 and suspension of 1,989 licences. Additionally, 438 raids led to 297 drug seizures. CCTV cameras have been installed in 35,754 out of 37,083 chemist shops, ensuring 96.4 percent coverage by December 2025. In Nuh district, 644 out of 674 chemist shops have been covered with CCTV surveillance. During 2025, regulatory actions in the district included 3 raids, 25 inspections and suspension of 24 licences.
Appealing to all members of the House, the Minister urged collective efforts to make Haryana drug-free and assured that specific complaints regarding drug sale in certain villages will be thoroughly investigated.
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Chandigarh, March 17 – Haryana Irrigation and Water Resources Minister, Smt. Shruti Choudhry informed the House that for the remodelling and reconstruction of watercourses in lined canals across the state, it is mandatory that the watercourse should be at least 20 years old and more than 75 percent damaged. In such cases, Water User Associations are required to contribute 1 per cent of the total reconstruction cost.
Responding to a question during the ongoing Budget Session of the Haryana Vidhan Sabha on Tuesday, she further clarified that in special circumstances, watercourses older than 15 years and more than 75 percent damaged may also be considered for reconstruction. However, in such cases, the Water User Associations must contribute 25 percent of the total project cost.]
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Chandigarh, March 17 – Haryana Irrigation and Water Resources Minister, Smt. Shruti Choudhry informed the House that the government has put in place a rotational programme to ensure the supply of water in canals across the state. She said that regular repair and desilting works are carried out to make sure water reaches even the tail ends of every canal.
Responding to a question during the ongoing Budget Session of the Haryana Vidhan Sabha on Tuesday, she said that water is being supplied efficiently in the Balak Minor, Rana Distributary, Burak Sub Minor, Bandaheri Sub Minor, Kabir Minor and Balsamand Minor in the Adampur Assembly constituency.
The Minister further said that there is a shortage of water at the tail end of Basra Sub Minor No. 2 in the Adampur area. She added that the government had earlier decided to repair its main source, the Balsamand Sub Minor, and once the work is completed, water will reach the far end of the channel as well.
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Chandigarh, March 17 — Haryana Minister of State for Sports, Sh. Gaurav Gautam, said that over the past five years, the state government has constructed 32 sports stadiums at a total cost of around Rs.195.53 crore. He clarified that none of these stadiums fall within the Kalayat Vidhan Sabha constituency.
Responding to a question during the Budget Session of the Haryana Vidhan Sabha on Tuesday, the Minister informed that a Rajiv Gandhi Sports Stadium already exists in village Bata in the Kalayat area. Funds amounting to about Rs.15 lakh have been released to the Public Works Department for its repair, and the work is currently underway, with roughly one-third already completed.
Addressing the demand for a new stadium in the Kalayat area, he said that a feasibility study conducted by the District Sports Officer, Kaithal, found the proposed land unsuitable. The site identified by the municipal committee was uneven, had eucalyptus trees, did not meet the required area, and already housed government offices, making it unfit for stadium construction. Similarly, for village Rajound, the feasibility report indicated that no suitable land is available for building a stadium, he said.
The Minister said that in the case of village Titram, although land was identified by the gram panchayat, it was found unsuitable due to the presence of high-tension power lines and other electrical infrastructure passing through the site. He said that these findings were based on reports submitted by the concerned authorities during the course of evaluation.
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Chandigarh, March 17 — Haryana Health Minister, Ms. Arti Singh Rao informed that a Government Medical College is being set up in village Rasulpur of Fatehabad district, to be named Guru Ravidas Medical College. Land measuring over 263 kanal and 14 marla has been identified by the gram panchayat for the project, and the process to appoint an executing agency for construction is currently underway.
The Minister was responding to a question raised by a member during the Budget Session of the Haryana Vidhan Sabha here today.
Highlighting the state’s focus on strengthening medical education, the Minister said that a separate Directorate of Medical Education and Research was carved out from the Directorate of Health Services in 2009. This was later formalized as an independent department through a government notification issued in September 2014.
She added that the government aims to establish at least one medical college in every district of the state to further enhance healthcare infrastructure and medical education.
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Chandigarh, March 17- Haryana’s Urban Local Bodies Minister, Vipul Goel, informed the House that the land near the Government Girls Senior Secondary School on Tigaon Road in Ballabhgarh is Shamlat Deh (common village land). As per the order dated 18.01.2005, this land falls under the jurisdiction of the Municipal Corporation Faridabad.
Sh. Goel was replying today during the Haryana Assembly budget session to a question asked by a member of the House.
He stated that, according to revenue records, the land is in the possession of the Municipal Corporation. However, some portions of the land are under litigation. In 2002, the High Court ordered to maintain status quo. Some individuals have encroached upon about one kanal of land. Several cases related to this matter are still pending in court. Until these cases are decided, the Municipal Corporation cannot take complete control of the land.
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Chandigarh, March 17- Haryana’s Public Works Minister, Sh. Ranbir Gangwa, said that the state government is continuously working to strengthen the road network. In this regard, the road from Bhadrakali Temple to village Jhansa in the Pehowa area, which is part of the Thanesar–Jhansa–Thol road (a major district road), has a total length of 28.84 km. The existing road has a width of 4 lanes/10.00 meters. The work for strengthening this road has already been awarded and is currently in progress. The project is likely to be completed by May 15.
Sh. Gangwa was replying to a question asked by Pehowa MLA Sardar Mandeep Chattha today during the Haryana Assembly budget session.
He further said that for the repair of the damaged stretch of the road from Pehowa–Cheeka Road to Ambala–Hisar Road via Galedwa, Guldehra, Dhulgarh, Mangna, and Thana, the estimated cost is being prepared. After administrative approval, the repair work will begin and is expected to be allotted by July 2026.
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Haryana’s Cyber Crackdown Delivers Results: Crime Drops, Arrests Surge, says Nayab Singh Saini
Cases fall from 6,054 in 2024 to 5,000 in 2025, registering a drop of nearly 17%; fraud cases decline from 9,804 to 6,324-CM
Three new cyber police stations announced in the 2026–27 Budget proposals for tighter control over cyber crime-CM
Dual OTP provision under consideration to check cyber crime and ‘digital arrest’ cases-CM
Chandigarh, March 17 — Haryana Chief Minister, Sh. Nayab Singh Saini asserted that the State Government’s aggressive and technology-driven crackdown on cybercrime is showing tangible results, with a notable decline in cyber fraud cases in 2025, even as law enforcement agencies significantly ramped up arrests, sending a strong message to cyber criminals across the state.
Replying to a question raised by MLA Aftab Ahmed during Question Hour in the ongoing Budget Session of the Haryana Vidhan Sabha on Tuesday, Sh. Nayab Singh Saini said cybercrime cases in the State fell from 6,054 in 2024 to 5,000 in 2025, marking a decline of nearly 17%. Fraud cases also saw a substantial drop, decreasing from 9,804 in 2024 to 6,324 in 2025, showing a reduction of around 36%.
Sh. Nayab Singh Saini said the police administration is continuously working with seriousness and promptness to effectively control cybercrime, and the positive impact of these efforts is now visible. He added that the State government had created a separate cybercrime department to tackle the growing challenge of such offences.
The Chief Minister said strict action was being taken against those involved in cybercrime. While 5,156 arrests were made in 2024, the number rose to 8,093 in 2025, registering an increase of about 57%.
Acting swiftly on a digital arrest, the police, in coordination with banks, ensure that the amount is immediately put on hold
Sh. Nayab Singh Saini said the nature of cybercrime was constantly evolving, with fraudsters using new techniques, including so-called “digital arrest” scams. In such cases, defrauded money is routed through multiple bank accounts. Acting swiftly, the police, in coordination with banks, ensure that the amount is immediately put on hold. The proportion of such held amounts increased from 27% in 2024 to 40% in 2025 — an increase of 13 percentage points.
Zero FIR system implemented in cybercrime cases
The Chief Minister said that the government had implemented the Zero FIR system in cybercrime cases, under which victims can register complaints by calling the 1930 helpline. The FIR is automatically transferred to the concerned police station, ensuring prompt action.
He said 16 nodal officers from different banks had been deployed in the Cyber Crime Control Room, where they coordinated with the police to help freeze the defrauded amount. The money cannot be withdrawn until the investigation is completed.
Three New Cyber Police Stations announced to Effectively Control Cybercrime
Referring to the 2026–27 Budget proposals, Sh. Nayab Singh Saini said the government had announced the opening of three new cyber police stations in Gohana, Bahadurgarh and Sonipat to further strengthen the State’s response to cyber offences.
Dual OTP Provision to Curb Cybercrime and Digital Arrest Cases
On cybercrime and “digital arrest” cases, he said people above 60 years of age were among the most affected. Keeping this in view, the government was considering a dual OTP provision. Under the proposed system, when an OTP is sought for a bank-linked transaction, it would be sent not only to the elderly person but also to their child. The transaction would be completed only after both OTPs are entered, a move expected to significantly curb cybercrime and “digital arrest” frauds
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FIR filed in Julana Civic Body corruption case; CM assures strict action after Probe
Chandigarh, March 17 — Haryana Chief Minister, Sh. Nayab Singh Saini said that an FIR has already been registered against the chairman of the Julana Municipal Committee and a contractor in connection with alleged corruption. He informed that the matter is currently under investigation and assured that strict and appropriate action will be taken based on the findings of the inquiry.
The Chief Minister said this while responding to a query raised by MLA Vinesh Phogat, during the Question Hour of the ongoing Budget Session of the Haryana Vidhan Sabha here today.
Responding to another question asked by MLA, Sh. Ghanshyam Dass regarding the establishment of a Transport area outside Yamunanagar, the Chief Minister said that the existing Transport area is now surrounded by densely populated areas, leading to increased congestion and operational challenges.
He further said that, keeping in view the growing urban pressure, the government is considering relocating the Transport area to a more suitable site that offers better connectivity and improved infrastructure facilities for traders.
The Chief Minister emphasized that the cooperation and input of the local MLA will play a crucial role in identifying a feasible and widely acceptable location. He assured that the new Transport area will be developed at a site that meets all the required requirements and serves the interests of stakeholders effectively.
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Haryana to Roll Out Green Hydrogen Policy Soon, Mega Project Takes Shape at Panipat
Chief Secretary Anurag Rastogi chairs high-level review meeting of Green Hydrogen project
Chandigarh, March 17 : The Haryana Government is set to introduce a Green Hydrogen Policy soon to promote clean energy in the state. Alongside, India’s first mega Green Hydrogen project with a capacity of 10,000 tonnes per annum (TPA) is being established at Panipat under a PPP model by Indian Oil Corporation Limited (IOCL).
A high-level meeting chaired by Chief Secretary Sh. Anurag Rastogi was held to review the progress of the project. It was informed that the plant will supply green hydrogen to the IOCL Panipat Refinery and is targeted for commissioning by December 2026. The project is expected to play a key role in advancing India’s clean energy goals and the Prime Minister’s Panchamrit commitments.
Discussions during the meeting also focused on ensuring adequate power supply for the project. Senior officials, including Additional Chief Secretary (Energy) Anurag Agarwal, Managing Director HVPNL, J. Ganesan, Director General of Industries & Commerce Yash Garg, and Director of New & Renewable Energy Dr. Sangeeta Tetarwal, were present.
Commissioner and Secretary, Industries & Commerce Department, Dr. Amit Kumar Agrawal, informed that a new industrial policy is being formulated, with Green Hydrogen identified as a thrust sector.
The project is expected to significantly transform Haryana’s industrial landscape, particularly by enabling decarbonisation of high-emission sectors such as refining and steel. It will help position the state as a hub for low-carbon refining and green steel production. Incentives under the SIGHT scheme of the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy are likely to attract large-scale investments. Fertiliser and ammonia units in and around Panipat are also expected to benefit by shifting to green ammonia, reducing dependence on fossil fuels.
The initiative is expected to generate substantial employment opportunities. Under the National Green Hydrogen Mission, achieving a capacity of 250 KTPA in Haryana could create around 40,000 direct jobs and 1.2 lakh indirect jobs across various sectors. The project is also likely to contribute significantly to the state’s GDP and strengthen the vision of Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini to build a robust green hydrogen economy in Haryana.
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Chandigarh, March 17- Haryana Urban Local Bodies Minister, Sh. Vipul Goel said that the present State Government has taken firm action in a corruption case involving the Chairman of the Julana Municipal Committee.
Speaking during the ongoing Budget Session of the Haryana Vidhan Sabha, he informed the House that the State Vigilance and Anti-Corruption Bureau, Karnal, had registered an FIR against Sanjay Kumar on August 16, 2025. Acting promptly on the matter, the government placed him under suspension with immediate effect on the same day.
The Minister clarified that since the Chairman has already been suspended, dissolving the entire municipal body at this stage would not be appropriate.
He further stated that the government is committed to taking swift and effective action in corruption-related cases and assured that further action will be carried out strictly in accordance with the law.
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Chandigarh, March 17- Haryana Development and Panchayat Minister, Sh. Krishan Lal Panwar informed that an inter- departmental committee under the Chairmanship of Additional Deputy Commissioner-cum-Chief Executive Officer, Zila Parishad Rewari has been constituted to look into the issue and identify a probable solution for the construction of Liquid Waste Water Management Plant in Gram Panchayat Akera and Ghatal Mahaniyawas of Rewari Assembly Constituency.
The Minister was responding to a question raised by a member during the ongoing budget session of the Haryana Vidhan Sabha here today.
The Minister informed that the population of village Akeda is 5,814, and of village Ghatal Mahaniyawas is 4,629. Both villages are adjoining, and there is no available Gram Panchayat land nearby for necessary development works. However, as per provisions, if the population of a Gram Panchayat exceeds 10,000, it can be converted into a ‘Mahagram’, making it eligible for the installation of a sewerage system. Therefore, it has been proposed to club both villages and include them under the Mahagram category so that a sewerage system can be provided.
He further said that a committee comprising the Additional Deputy Commissioner-cum-Chief Executive Officer, Zila Parishad Rewari was constituted, which was assigned to submit its report within 15 days. A meeting of the committee was held on Monday, during which it was recommended that the Deputy Commissioner (DC) should also be included in the committee.
Regarding the issue of the pipeline, it was stated that further action will be taken based on the recommendations of the committee’s report.
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Chandigarh, March 17- Haryana Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare Minister, Sh. Shyam Singh Rana said that compensation has been released to 1,57,455 farmers whose bajra produce could not be sold at the Minimum Support Price (MSP).
The Minister was responding to a question raised by a member during the ongoing Budget Session of the Haryana Vidhan Sabha on Tuesday. He said that farmers who had to sell their produce below MSP have been compensated to offset the loss, with payments made at the rate of Rs.575 per quintal.
He further informed the House that payments of 601 farmers are still pending due to incorrect bank account details submitted at the time of registration. These farmers are being continuously contacted and advised to update their correct details on the ‘Meri Fasal Mera Byora’ portal. The pending amount will be released once the information is corrected.
The Minister also shared that for bajra procurement, more than 2.24 lakh J-forms were issued covering over 1.58 lakh farmers.
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Chandigarh, March 17- Haryana’s Irrigation and Water Resources Minister, Shruti Choudhry, informed the House that the government is planning to take significant steps to strengthen the irrigation system in the Assandh Assembly constituency. A proposal for the reconstruction of canals/minors located around villages Jaisinghpura, Malikpur, Duperi, Phafadana, Salwan, Kudlan, Uplana, Gangatehri, Popra, Danoli, and Aradana, which fall under the Assandh Assembly area, is under consideration by the government.
Smt. Choudhry stated that there is a possibility of receiving funds from the World Bank in the financial year 2026–27. After this, the reconstruction and repair work of 10 canals will begin. The work is expected to be completed within the next three years.
She added that this initiative of the government will not only strengthen the irrigation system in the region but also ensure a permanent solution to water-related problems faced by farmers.
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Chandigarh, March 17 - Haryana Health Minister, Ms. Arti Singh Rao informed that a de-addiction centre will be set up at the Community Health Centre in Tauru, falling under the Ferozepur Jhirka Vidhan Sabha constituency.
Responding to a question during the ongoing Budget Session of the Haryana Vidhan Sabha, she said that two government de-addiction centres are already operational in Nuh district, one at Shaheed Hasan Khan Mewati Medical College, Nalhar, with 10 beds, and another at the District Civil Hospital, Mandikhera, with 17 beds dedicated for such patients.
The Minister further shared that no deaths due to drug abuse have been reported in Nuh district since 2023. Highlighting the state’s anti-drug initiatives, she said that the “MANAS”– Madak Padarth Nishedh Asuchna Sahayata (National Narcotics Helpline 1933)
serves as a public reporting platform for drug-related activities, with inputs monitored by the Narcotics Control Bureau. The platform received 564 calls from across the state in 2025 and 163 calls so far in 2026, including 23 calls from Nuh in 2025 and 8 calls in 2026.
She further informed that the “Mukhyamantri Jagrit Gram Puraskar Yojana,” launched on April 24, 2025, aims to promote model villages and strengthen the role of gram panchayats. Under this scheme, panchayats excelling in sectors such as education, health, sanitation, women empowerment, agriculture, digital connectivity and sustainable infrastructure are rewarded. Villages contributing to drug prevention, curbing stubble burning, cleanliness and water conservation are given special recognition. Prize amounts of Rs. 51 lakh, Rs. 31 lakh and Rs. 21 lakh have been earmarked for first, second and third positions respectively, to be used for village development works.
She also highlighted the “Drug-Free Haryana Cyclothon 2.0,” launched on April 5, 2025, from Chaudhary Charan Singh Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar, which witnessed participation of around 4.5 lakh cyclists and covered all districts of the state. The campaign reached Nuh on April 9, with the participation of about 2,000 cyclists, and later progressed through Faridabad and Gurugram, spreading awareness against drug abuse.
The Minister added that monitoring of chemist shops and drug distribution systems has been strengthened by the Food and Drug Administration. Under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, a one-year ban effective from September 5, 2025, has been imposed on the manufacture, storage, distribution and sale of flavoured tobacco products such as gutkha and pan masala in the interest of public health.
She further informed that 20,788 inspections have been carried out across the state, resulting in cancellation of 81 licences, partial cancellation of 18 and suspension of 1,989 licences. Additionally, 438 raids led to 297 drug seizures. CCTV cameras have been installed in 35,754 out of 37,083 chemist shops, ensuring 96.4 percent coverage by December 2025. In Nuh district, 644 out of 674 chemist shops have been covered with CCTV surveillance. During 2025, regulatory actions in the district included 3 raids, 25 inspections and suspension of 24 licences.
Appealing to all members of the House, the Minister urged collective efforts to make Haryana drug-free and assured that specific complaints regarding drug sale in certain villages will be thoroughly investigated.
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Chandigarh, March 17 – Four bills were introduced during the Budget Session of the Haryana Vidhan Sabha here today.
The Bills introduced include the Haryana Police (Amendment) Bill, 2026; the Haryana Fiscal Responsibility and Budget Management (Amendment) Bill, 2026; the Haryana Development and Regulation of Urban Areas (Amendment) Bill, 2026; and the Haryana Consolidation of Project Land (Special Provisions) Amendment Bill, 2026.
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Haryana to Roll Out Green Hydrogen Policy Soon, Mega Project Takes Shape at Panipat
Chief Secretary Anurag Rastogi chairs high-level review meeting of Green Hydrogen project
Chandigarh, March 17 : The Haryana Government is set to introduce a Green Hydrogen Policy soon to promote clean energy in the state. Alongside, India’s first mega Green Hydrogen project with a capacity of 10,000 tonnes per annum (TPA) is being established at Panipat under a PPP model by Indian Oil Corporation Limited (IOCL).
A high-level meeting chaired by Chief Secretary Sh. Anurag Rastogi was held to review the progress of the project. It was informed that the plant will supply green hydrogen to the IOCL Panipat Refinery and is targeted for commissioning by December 2026. The project is expected to play a key role in advancing India’s clean energy goals and the Prime Minister’s Panchamrit commitments.
Discussions during the meeting also focused on ensuring adequate power supply for the project. Senior officials, including Additional Chief Secretary (Energy) Anurag Agarwal, Managing Director HVPNL, J. Ganesan, Director General of Industries & Commerce Yash Garg, and Director of New & Renewable Energy Dr. Sangeeta Tetarwal, were present.
Commissioner and Secretary, Industries & Commerce Department, Dr. Amit Kumar Agrawal, informed that a new industrial policy is being formulated, with Green Hydrogen identified as a thrust sector.
The project is expected to significantly transform Haryana’s industrial landscape, particularly by enabling decarbonisation of high-emission sectors such as refining and steel. It will help position the state as a hub for low-carbon refining and green steel production. Incentives under the SIGHT scheme of the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy are likely to attract large-scale investments. Fertiliser and ammonia units in and around Panipat are also expected to benefit by shifting to green ammonia, reducing dependence on fossil fuels.
The initiative is expected to generate substantial employment opportunities. Under the National Green Hydrogen Mission, achieving a capacity of 250 KTPA in Haryana could create around 40,000 direct jobs and 1.2 lakh indirect jobs across various sectors. The project is also likely to contribute significantly to the state’s GDP and strengthen the vision of Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini to build a robust green hydrogen economy in Haryana.
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Chandigarh, March 17- Haryana Urban Local Bodies Minister, Sh. Vipul Goel said that the present State Government has taken firm action in a corruption case involving the Chairman of the Julana Municipal Committee.
Speaking during the ongoing Budget Session of the Haryana Vidhan Sabha, he informed the House that the State Vigilance and Anti-Corruption Bureau, Karnal, had registered an FIR against Sanjay Kumar on August 16, 2025. Acting promptly on the matter, the government placed him under suspension with immediate effect on the same day.
The Minister clarified that since the Chairman has already been suspended, dissolving the entire municipal body at this stage would not be appropriate.
He further stated that the government is committed to taking swift and effective action in corruption-related cases and assured that further action will be carried out strictly in accordance with the law.
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Opposition indulging in ‘headline politics’, fails to see Haryana’s development- CM
‘Aarop lagao aur bhaag jao’ mindset reflects a lack of seriousness in debate, says CM
Budget based on around 5,000 suggestions; farmer consultation claims misleading, says CM
Chandigarh, March 17 — Haryana Chief Minister Sh. Nayab Singh Saini on Tuesday launched a strong attack on the Congress, accusing it of indulging in ‘headline politics’ and making baseless remarks on the Budget merely to stay in the news. Replying to the discussion on the state Budget during the ongoing session of the State Vidhan Sabha, he said the opposition seems unable to recognise the pace of development in the state and is viewing the Budget through a distorted lens.
The Chief Minister was replying to the discussion on the Budget Estimates 2026–27 during the ongoing Budget Session of the Haryana Vidhan Sabha on Tuesday.
Taking a sharp swipe at the Congress, he said, ‘Aarop lagao aur bhaag jao’ has become the key habit of Congress, instead of engaging in constructive discussion. He said the allegations that Congress makes on the streets are repeated in the House. It is unfortunate to see that instead of having constructive debate, Congress chooses to walk out every time. Opposition has neither read the Budget seriously nor understood the provisions made for development, and therefore is in no position to hold any meaningful discussion on the state’s issues. Such conduct exposes the opposition’s lack of seriousness, while the government remains committed to addressing public issues with transparency and accountability, said Sh. Nayab Singh Saini.
Congress is resorting to baseless rhetoric merely to stay politically relevant- CM
In a sharp remark, the Chief Minister said the opposition has no substantive issues to raise and is resorting to unfounded criticism. He further said that 2.8 crore people of Haryana look towards this august House with hope, but the irresponsible conduct of the opposition is there for everyone to see. Opposition is not interested in giving constructive suggestions, but is instead focused on spreading misinformation and walking out of the House, he said.
The Chief Minister said that the role being played by the Congress is a matter of concern, as the opposition appears to be merely marking its presence, opposing for the sake of opposition, and spreading falsehoods.
Taking a poetic dig, he said, ‘Jo khud chal nahi paate raaston par, aksar wahi manzilon par sawaal karte hain’. He said that while several members gave meaningful and constructive suggestions during the discussion, which are welcome, some opposition members chose to criticise without facts. He remarked that it appeared as if some members neither listened to the Budget speech delivered on March 2 nor took the effort to read it later, and merely repeated in the House the same allegations they make on the streets.
Targeting the opposition further, the Chief Minister said it may be compelled to appear adversarial to the government, but it would have been better had it contributed constructive suggestions in the larger public interest. He added that leaders driven by political motives often end up questioning outcomes they themselves are unable to achieve.
Congress must not object if Independent sought our support in Rajya Sabha polls- CM
Responding to the Opposition’s allegations regarding the Rajya Sabha elections, the Chief Minister said that the Bharatiya Janata Party had successfully ensured the election of its candidate, Sh. Sanjay Bhatia, to the Rajya Sabha. He asserted that in a democracy, every individual has the right to contest elections, and supporting an Independent candidate is well within democratic norms. “If the opposition had objections, they were free to field their own candidate. Why didn’t they?” he asked, adding that the Independent candidate had approached them for support, which they extended.
Taking strong exception to the remarks made by Dr. Raghuvir Kadian, who termed the election process questionable and alleged vote theft, the Chief Minister said such claims are completely baseless and unfortunate. He emphasized that neither are votes “stolen” nor are there flaws in EVMs, underlining that the strength of democracy lies in its ability to awaken the conscience, if it has been ignored. He termed such allegations as misleading and irresponsible.
Budget prepared with wide public participation, says CM
The Chief Minister said his second Budget has been prepared by incorporating suggestions from all sections of society, with nearly 5,000 inputs received from stakeholders. He was responding to remarks by senior member Dr. Raghuvir Kadian, who termed the Budget speech lengthy. Sh. Saini said there is no prescribed time limit for a Budget speech and such remarks undermine the seriousness of the exercise.
He pointed out that the length of the Budget speech reflects the wide consultation process and the inclusion of diverse perspectives, making it natural for the address to be detailed.
Farmer consultation claims ‘factually incorrect’
Rejecting the opposition’s allegations regarding lack of consultation with farmers, the Chief Minister termed such claims as completely misleading. He informed that a pre-Budget consultation meeting was held on January 15 at Chaudhary Charan Singh Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar, where 362 participants, including farmers, representatives of farmer organisations, FPOs, progressive farmers, agricultural scientists and researchers, shared their inputs.
Additionally, another consultation meeting was held on January 22 in Kurukshetra, where representatives of the Bharatiya Kisan Sangh also participated and gave valuable suggestions related to the farming sector.
He said it is incorrect to suggest that the Budget was shaped only through consultations with industrialists. Such allegations not only lack factual basis but also undermine the contributions of thousands of farmers, experts and stakeholders who actively participated in the process.
The Chief Minister emphasised that the Budget is inclusive in nature and reflects inputs from farmers, labourers, youth, women, industry and every section of society.
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Chandigarh, March 17 — Haryana Chief Minister Sh. Nayab Singh Saini said that the state government has made a provision of Rs. 100 crore for the construction of the SYL canal in the Budget 2026–27 proposals, and therefore the opposition’s allegation that there is no mention of the SYL canal in the budget is completely baseless.
The Chief Minister was replying on Tuesday after the discussion on the Budget Estimates 2026–27 during the Budget Session of the Haryana Assembly.
Sh. Nayab Singh Saini said that during the discussion on the budget, members of the Congress stated that they had been reading the budget speech for three days and found no mention of the SYL canal. They also claimed that in nearly 60 years of Haryana’s formation, there has never been a budget without a reference to the SYL canal. The Chief Minister clarified that in the Budget 2026–27 documents, Volume III, which presents detailed estimates of capital expenditure, a provision of Rs. 100 crore has been clearly made under the sub-head for the construction of the SYL canal on page number 204.
He further said that as per the records of budget speeches during the Congress tenure from 2005 to 2014, the SYL canal was mentioned only in two years—2005–06 and 2006–07. In the remaining eight budget speeches, the term “SYL” was not mentioned at all. Moreover, out of those ten years, only in two years—2013–14 and 2014–15—was a provision of merely Rs. 10 lakh made for the construction of the SYL canal. In the other eight years, not even a single rupee was allocated under this sub-head.
Sh. Nayab Singh Saini said that the present government, on the other hand, has been consistently making a provision of Rs. 100 crore every year from 2016–17 to 2025–26. He added that in paragraph 36 of the Governor’s Address delivered on February 20, 2026, it has also been stated: “My government is fully committed to protecting Haryana’s rights over its waters. We are fully committed to the construction of the Sutlej-Yamuna Link canal.”
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Three-Decade-Old Issue Related to Haryana Telecom Limited Resolved Through Legal Process: Chief Minister
Chandigarh, March 17 — Haryana Chief Minister Sh. Nayab Singh Saini, while replying on Tuesday to the discussion on the Budget 2026–27 in the Haryana Assembly, said that the issue raised by the opposition regarding Haryana Telecom Limited pertains to an industrial unit pending for nearly three decades along with its associated financial liabilities. He stated that the government has given top priority to transparency, due legal process, and safeguarding the interests of the state in the entire matter. The present state government has neither compromised on rules at any level nor ignored the interests of the state. This nearly three-decade-old dispute has been resolved through due legal process, and the amount pending since 2000 has been deposited into the state exchequer in the interest of the state.
Sh. Nayab Singh Saini informed the House that during 1994 and 1995, M/s Haryana Telecom Limited, based in Rohtak, was granted an interest-free loan of Rs. 18.68 crore by the State Industries Department. This loan was to be repaid by the industrial unit after a period of five years. However, the company repaid only Rs. 39 lakh, and the remaining amount of Rs. 18.29 crore was due in the year 2000. In June 1999, the company was declared bankrupt and thereafter did not repay even a single rupee to the government.
He said that another financial liability was also linked to this case. M/s Parivartan Investment and Finance Company had to recover Rs. 7.92 crore from M/s Haryana Telecom Limited. In 1998, M/s Haryana Telecom Limited had executed a mortgage deed of its 136 kanal 8 marla land with the Industries Department, Haryana. Under this mortgage, the first charge was with M/s Parivartan Investment and Finance Company, while the second charge was with the Industries Department, Haryana.
He further stated that the private company had mortgaged its land, and the government had provided an interest-free loan of Rs. 18.68 crore, out of which only Rs. 39 lakh was repaid within five years. In 1994, the Congress government was in power. To recover its dues of Rs. 7.92 crore, M/s Parivartan Investment and Finance Company approached the National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT), Chandigarh Bench, in February 2020. During the COVID period, the NCLT Chandigarh Bench invited bids from resolution applicants. In April 2023, the highest bid of Rs. 25.14 crore submitted by Sh. Abhimanyu Mehlawat was approved by the NCLT Chandigarh Bench.
He informed that the Industries Department, Haryana had also filed a claim of approximately Rs. 77.00 crore before the NCLT, which included Rs. 18.29 crore as principal and Rs. 58.71 crore as penal interest.
He said that in its order passed in April 2023, the NCLT Chandigarh Bench did not recognize the Industries Department, Haryana as a financial creditor. Consequently, the penal interest claimed by the department was not accepted. As a result, out of the approved bid amount of Rs. 25.14 crore, an amount of Rs. 18.56 crore was approved for the Industries Department, Haryana.
Sh. Nayab Singh Saini said that the state government had filed an appeal against this order in the Supreme Court, which was dismissed in April 2025. He remarked that beyond this, there was little more the present government could do in dealing with a problem created during the Congress regime. Thereafter, respecting the legal process, further action was taken.
He added that in September 2025, legal opinion was obtained from the Advocate General, Haryana, which advised that the department should accept the demand draft amount of Rs. 18.56 crore and issue a No Objection Certificate in favour of the successful bidder. Based on this legal advice, and after obtaining approval from the Finance Department, Haryana and the State Government, the amount of Rs. 18.56 crore was deposited into the state exchequer.
Thus, the long-pending matter was resolved. Subsequently, in November 2025, a No Dues Certificate was also issued in favour of the successful bidder to formally conclude the case.
The Chief Minister said that this entire case clearly demonstrates that the present state government has neither compromised on rules nor ignored the interests of the state at any level. This nearly three-decade-old dispute has been resolved through due legal process, and the amount pending since 2000 has been deposited into the state exchequer in the interest of the state.
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Misleading Figures, Misguided Politics, CM Rebuts Opposition on Haryana’s Debt
Haryana is financially much Stronger than Punjab, says CM
Chandigarh, March 17 — Rejecting the opposition’s claims of a looming debt crisis, Haryana Chief Minister, Sh. Nayab Singh Saini on Tuesday said a false narrative is being deliberately spread to mislead the public, asserting that a comparison with Punjab clearly shows Haryana’s financial position is significantly stronger and more balanced.
Replying to the discussion on the State Budget in the Haryana Vidhan Sabha on Tuesday, the Chief Minister said the opposition is presenting incorrect and distorted figures to create fear among people. He stressed that assessment of a state’s economy cannot be based on ‘bhavnaatmak tippaniyan’ (emotional remarks), but must rest on facts, data and credible comparisons.
He shared that in the year 2004-05—a period when Congress governments were in power in both Haryana and Punjab—Haryana's total budget stood at Rs. 15,526 crore. In contrast, Punjab's budget was Rs. 25,627 crore; meaning that, at that time, Punjab's budget was significantly larger than Haryana's. Turning to the government debt figures from that same period, Haryana's total debt amounted to Rs. 17,347 crore, which represented approximately 112 percent of its budget. Conversely, Punjab's total debt stood at Rs. 37,796 crore—amounting to roughly 147 percent of its budget. This implies that, even back then, Punjab's financial position was under greater strain compared to that of Haryana. This same scenario persisted through the years 2005-06 and 2006-07, during which the budget of the Congress government in Haryana remained smaller than that of the Congress government in Punjab, yet the debt-to-budget ratio in Punjab remained higher than that of Haryana.
Sh. Nayab Singh Saini stated that if we examine the situation in recent years—specifically in 2021-22, when the Congress party was in power in Punjab and the Bharatiya Janata Party in Haryana—Haryana's budget stood at Rs. 1,35,910 crore, while its total debt amounted to approximately 167 percent of the budget. In contrast, Punjab's budget was smaller than Haryana's, totaling Rs. 1,25,501 crore; however, its total debt stood at approximately 186 percent of its budget. This implies that, even at that time, the debt burden on Punjab was heavier than that on Haryana, despite Haryana's budget having surpassed that of Punjab.
He added that if we look at the current situation, this disparity becomes even more evident. In the budget for the year 2026-27, Haryana's total budget stands at Rs. 2,23,658 crore, with its total debt amounting to approximately 175 percent of the budget. On the other hand, Punjab's total budget is merely Rs. 1,80,437 crore; yet, its total debt stands at approximately 248 percent of its budget.
The Chief Minister remarked that the current state government has accelerated the pace of development while simultaneously maintaining fiscal discipline. Consistent investments are being made across all sectors—including roads, education, healthcare, industry, and agriculture—the positive results of which are clearly visible in the state's rapidly growing economy.
Debt in the Industrial Sector
Sh. Nayab Singh Saini noted that Mr. Batra had raised a query regarding industries, pointing out that Haryana is home to major industrial sectors such as automobiles, electronics, and others. He highlighted that these industries collectively carry a debt burden of approximately Rs. 1,85,767 crore. The Chief Minister challenged members of the opposition to clarify whether it is the government's responsibility to repay the debts incurred by large-scale industries. He asked whether the government has ever received a request from any bank or commercial financial institution asking it to settle a loan extended to an industry. He further challenged them to cite a single instance—leaving aside the present context—from their own tenure in office where the government had undertaken the responsibility of repaying the debts of industries.
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Haryana’s Financial Position Strong, Opposition’s Allegations Baseless: CM Nayab Singh Saini
Chief Minister Responds on Debt and Budget Growth, Terms Opposition Figures Misleading
No New Taxes Imposed by Haryana Government Since 2014
Chandigarh, March 17 — Haryana Chief Minister Sh. Nayab Singh Saini, while replying to the discussion on the Budget 2026–27 in the Assembly, said that the allegations being made by the opposition regarding the state’s financial condition are not based on facts. He stated that the state government is accelerating development works while maintaining fiscal discipline.
No Need for White Paper on Debt, All Data Publicly Available
The Chief Minister said that some Congress MLAs have claimed that the state is heavily in debt, whereas the reality is different. He informed that during the tenure of the previous Congress government in 2014–15, the state had a debt of Rs. 96,875 crore, which was 22.16 percent of the then GSDP of Rs. 4,37,145 crore. At that time, the Finance Commission had fixed the maximum borrowing limit at 22.9 percent, and the then Congress government had exceeded this limit.
He added that some Congress MLAs have presented misleading figures regarding the state’s debt and demanded the issuance of a white paper. He clarified that all debt-related data of the state is available in reports of the CAG and RBI, as well as in the state’s annual budget documents, which are publicly accessible. Therefore, there is no need to issue a separate white paper on debt.
Real Budget Growth Between 8 and 9.24 Percent
Responding to questions raised on budget growth, Sh. Nayab Singh Saini said that the claim that the budget has increased by only 4 percent after adjusting for inflation is incorrect. He explained that if compared at 2022–23 price levels, the Budget Estimate for 2025–26 stands at Rs. 1,93,294 crore and the Revised Estimate at Rs. 1,91,156 crore. Similarly, the Budget Estimate for 2026–27 is Rs. 2,08,831 crore. Thus, in real terms, the Budget Estimate for 2026–27 reflects an increase of 8 percent over the Budget Estimate and 9.24 percent over the Revised Estimate of 2025–26.
The Chief Minister further said that some Congress MLAs have also raised questions regarding revenue generation and commented on excise collections. He clarified that under the Haryana Excise Policy, retail zones are being allotted through an online tender process in a fair and transparent manner, leading to a significant increase in the number of participating license holders.
He informed that under the Excise Policy 2025–27, a total of 1,957 e-bids were received for 1,194 retail zones, and the bidding process was completed within the stipulated deadline on July 25, 2025. Through this process, the government has received Rs. 14,342 crore as retail licence fee revenue, which is 13.25 percent higher than the previous year.
The Chief Minister further stated that under the 21-month Excise Policy 2025–27, revenue of Rs. 14,064 crore is estimated for 2025–26 and Rs. 13,152 crore for 2026–27. About 53 percent of the total revenue during this policy period comes from licence fees. Of this, around 56 percent has already been received in the financial year 2025–26, while the remaining 44 percent will be received in 2026–27.
Challenging the opposition, the Chief Minister said that no new tax has been imposed by the state government since 2014–15. He stated that if anyone proves that a new tax has been imposed and not collected, he himself will request a half-day special discussion on the issue in the next session of the Assembly.
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CM Hits Back at Congress, says Budget Not ‘Ankadon ka Makkar Jaal’ but Roadmap for Viksit Haryana
Working at Four Times the Pace for the Next Generation: CM Nayab Singh Saini
CM Hits Back at Opposition in Assembly, Asserts Long-Term Vision Behind Budget
Chandigarh, March 17 – Haryana Chief Minister, Sh. Nayab Singh Saini, while delivering a strong and factual response to the Opposition's statement of calling the State Budget ‘Ankadon ka makkar jaal’, said that such statements highlight the Opposition’s deliberate attempt to mislead the public. The state government is working non-stop at four times the pace, with a clear focus on securing the future of the coming generations and building a ‘Viksit Haryana’ well before 2047, said Sh. Nayab Singh Saini.
Taking a swipe at the opposition, the Chief Minister said that Congress leaders appear increasingly disconnected from grassroots realities and remain confined to five-star hotels and air-conditioned spaces, which, he added, explains their inability to appreciate the transformative intent of the budget. He questioned whether any of its finance ministers had ever presented a vision extending even two years ahead, while reiterating that the present government’s policies are designed with a long-term developmental perspective.
Sh. Nayab Singh Saini said that the state budget is focused not on short-term gains but on ensuring a strong and prosperous future for the state. He said that it is really unfortunate to see how the Opposition fails to appreciate the importance of chaupals and rural pathways and has even objected to empowering panchayats with funds for their upkeep.
Emphasizing that governance must go beyond immediate political considerations, the Chief Minister said that true leadership lies in planning for future generations. Children born in 2026-27 will be 21 years old in 2047, and it is our resolve that they step into a developed Haryana, he said, adding that every provision in the budget reflects this long-term commitment.
CM Rebuts Opposition Claims on Unemployment, Calls Out ‘Factually Incorrect’ Data
Responding to allegations of rising unemployment, the Chief Minister said the Opposition had overlooked the repeated emphasis on jobs in the budget, noting that the terms ‘jobs’ and ‘employment’ have been used 15 times. He also questioned the credibility of the data cited by Opposition leaders, stating that the figures attributed to the CMIE are not available on the organisation’s official website.
Citing the latest Periodic Labour Force Survey conducted by the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation for October–December 2025, he said Haryana’s unemployment rate stands at 5 percent, which is significantly lower than neighbouring states such as Himachal Pradesh (7.2%) and Punjab (7%).
The Chief Minister said the government has taken concrete steps to address unemployment, adding that since 2014, as many as 1.80 lakh youth have been provided government jobs purely on merit.
Per Capita Income Row: CM Slams ‘Basic Economic Misunderstanding’
Responding to Opposition claims on per capita income, Sh. Nayab Singh Saini said linking it with family income data reflects a lack of even basic economic understanding. He said the opposition questioned how the per capita income is being stated as around Rs. 3.95 lakh while data from the Parivar Pehchan Patra shows that a large number of families earn less than Rs. 1.80 lakh annually. He remarked that linking these two figures reflects a lack of basic understanding of economics, something even a Class 12 student would typically grasp.
The Chief Minister explained that across the world—whether in the United States, New Zealand, or any Indian state—per capita income is calculated using a standard method: dividing the total GDP of a state or country by its population. The resulting figure represents per capita income. Based on this universally accepted formula, Haryana’s per capita income stands at approximately Rs. 3.95 lakh, and this is not an arbitrary number. He further pointed out inconsistencies within the opposition’s own claims. Some leaders say over 51 lakh families earn less than Rs. 1.80 lakh annually, while others claim that 60% of the population lives below the poverty line, indicating a lack of coherence in their arguments.
Rs. 834 crore disbursed Under Lado Lakshmi Scheme; CM Assures more funds if needed
Addressing allegations about insufficient budget allocation for the Deendayal Lado Lakshmi Scheme, the Chief Minister said that according to the opposition, there are around 82.5 lakh women in the 18–60 age group in the state. Providing Rs. 2,100 per month to all of them would require an annual budget of about ₹20,000 crore.
However, he clarified that even without this scheme, around 34.27 lakh women in this age group are already receiving Rs. 3,200 per month under various welfare schemes such as old-age pension, widow pension, unmarried pension, and disability support. He questioned why the opposition wants to include these beneficiaries in the Lado Lakshmi scheme, as they are unlikely to opt for a lower benefit.
He added that the government has set up an online portal for registration under the scheme. Applications are verified for eligibility, and eligible women receive ₹2,100 per month. So far, 9,56,095 women have been found eligible, and Rs. 834.77 crore has already been disbursed in five installments directly into their bank accounts. The government has allocated ₹6,500 crore for the scheme and assured that if this amount falls short, additional funds will be provided through a supplementary budget.
CM rejects ‘Unsafe State’ Tag, Calls NCRB Data Misinterpreted
The Chief Minister also responded to allegations made by Congress leader Bhupinder Singh Hooda regarding crime in the state. He said presenting incomplete information to tarnish the state’s image is not appropriate for the dignity of the House. He clarified that NCRB data only provides annual crime statistics and does not categorize states as “most dangerous” or “safest.”
Therefore, he termed the claim that Haryana is among the ten most dangerous states in the country as misleading and baseless. He emphasized that the state government is fully committed to strengthening law and order and ensuring public safety. According to him, recent data indicate significant improvements in crime control and overall security in the state.
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Over Rs 18,700 crore allocated to School Education, CM Rejects Opposition’s Claims on allocating less budget to education sector
Chandigarh, March 17 – Haryana Chief Minister Sh. Nayab Singh Saini on Tuesday said that the state has earmarked Rs 18,717.89 crore for the School Education Department in the 2026–27 Budget, accounting for about 8.37% of the total outlay of Rs 2,23,658.17 crore, and asserted that claims regarding inadequate spending on education were misleading and unrealistic.
The Chief Minister was speaking during the ongoing Budget Session of the Haryana Vidhan Sabha here today.
While responding to issues raised by Members Sh. Bhupinder Singh Hooda and Sh. Aftab Ahmed, the Chief Minister said that the oft-cited figure of around 1.9% expenditure was being presented out of context.
He clarified that the National Education Policy’s benchmark of allocating 6% of GDP to education pertains to the combined public expenditure of both the Centre and the States, and not to any individual state. The target, he said, is rooted in the recommendations of the Kothari Commission and was first incorporated in the National Policy on Education, 1968, before being reiterated in the 1986 policy and its 1992 review.
Referring to the National Education Policy 2020, he pointed out that clauses 26.1 and 26.2 explicitly call for coordinated efforts by the Centre and the States to progressively raise public investment in education to 6% of GDP, underlining that it is a collective national commitment.
The Chief Minister said that when expenditure is assessed in terms of Gross State Domestic Product (GSDP), the allocation for school education alone works out to about 1.37%. However, he emphasised that a realistic assessment must factor in allocations across sectors, including Higher Education, Technical Education, and Skill Development and Industrial Training.
Taken together, he said, the total public spending on education rises to 1.67% of GSDP and 10.25% of the state’s overall budget, reflecting a more accurate picture of the state’s investment in the sector.
Reaffirming the government’s focus, Sh. Nayab Singh Saini termed education as the most powerful instrument for shaping the future, and said that sustained efforts have been made in recent years to strengthen school infrastructure, expand digital learning, establish new colleges and technical institutions, and improve teacher recruitment and training.
He also cautioned opposition against attempts to “mislead or spread confusion” on an issue as critical as education, reiterating that the government remains committed to further strengthening the sector.
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Government working with full commitment to provide quality public health facilities to every citizen: Chief Minister
Chandigarh, March 17 – Haryana Chief Minister Sh. Nayab Singh Saini said that the government is working with full dedication to ensure better public health facilities for every citizen of the state. In Kaithal, over the past 11 years, 145 km of new sewerage lines and 122 km of drinking water pipelines have been laid for comprehensive improvement of the sewerage network.
Sh. Nayab Singh Saini was speaking in the House during the discussion on the Budget.
The Chief Minister said that perhaps the member did not take the effort to carefully read the Budget speech. Had they referred to paragraph numbers 31, 32, 80, 81, and 85 of Part-5, they would have clearly seen that the government has not only provided detailed information on public health but has also presented a concrete roadmap for the future.
He said that the member’s claim that no funds were provided for development in Kaithal colonies and that dirty water is accumulating there is completely incorrect.
He further informed that administrative approval for an estimate of ₹20.40 crore for Kaithal city was granted on December 18, 2025. Under this ambitious plan, a 55 km long new sewerage network will be laid in newly approved colonies of Kaithal, and old sewerage pipelines will be replaced wherever required. Additionally, 90 km of new drinking water pipelines will also be laid in these colonies.
The Chief Minister added that, as far as waterlogging on roads is concerned, there is currently no such situation. Whenever any complaint regarding sewer blockage or disruption is received, the department ensures immediate action.
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3 Labour Inspectors and 1 Patwari of Labour Department Suspended- Chief Minister
High-Level Inquiry Committee Constituted Under the Chairmanship of the Chief Secretary for Investigation
Chandigarh, March 17 – Haryana Chief Minister, Sh. Nayab Singh Saini said that three Labour Inspectors and one Patwari of the Labour Department have been suspended. Furthermore, disciplinary proceedings are underway against six Gram Sachivs, one Junior Engineer, and one Panchayat Officer.
The Chief Minister said that the issue came to light during a meeting of the Haryana Building and Other Construction Workers Welfare Board held on April 21, 2025. During the meeting, it was revealed that there were serious discrepancies in the verification of the 90-day work slips submitted for the registration of construction workers.
The Chief Minister was speaking during the budget discussion in the House here today. He assured the House that if the committee's report finds any other officers or officials guilty, stringent action will also be taken against them as well.
He said that Dr. Raghuvir Kadian himself had acknowledged that this matter was reported by the Labour Minister, and when the Minister himself initiated action against those guilty, the Opposition is now terming this as a Scam.
The Chief Minister stated that, rather than attempting to conceal the matter, the government decided to take immediate and swift action. He reiterated that no guilty officer or individual would be spared, and the strictest possible action would be taken against them.
The Chief Minister shared that immediately upon detecting the issue, an all-member committee was constituted, and directions were issued to all the Deputy Commissioners to conduct re-verification of the work slips. According to reports received from 22 districts, a total of 2,178,523 work slips were scrutinized. Action is currently being taken based on the facts uncovered during this preliminary investigation.
The Chief Minister further stated that, in order to prevent such irregularities, the government has taken measures regarding pensions, death and accident assistance, and NCR-related schemes. Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) for all welfare schemes—except essential programmes such as GRAP- III & IV allowances, has been temporarily suspended. To investigate this matter, a high-level inquiry committee headed by the Chief Secretary has been constituted, which will submit a detailed report soon.
The Chief Minister stated that, following the investigation, benefits will be released to all workers whose work slips are found to be valid. The government has always adopted a zero-tolerance policy towards corruption. The government has uncovered this issue and remains committed to taking strict action against those found guilty, he said.
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CM Gives Strong Rebuttal to Opposition on Celebration of Birth Anniversaries of Great Personalities and Mining Issues
Chandigarh, March 17 — Haryana Chief Minister Sh. Nayab Singh Saini gave a strong reply to the opposition during the Budget Session regarding allegations on objections raised in the CAG report on expenditure for celebrating birth anniversaries of great personalities, and questions related to the Prasad Committee report on mining.
Sh. Nayab Singh Saini strongly responded to the allegation made by Dr. Kadian regarding objections raised by the CAG on expenditure incurred for celebrating birth anniversaries of great personalities in the state.
The Chief Minister said that any society draws guidance from its history, traditions, and great personalities, which shape its future. Keeping this in view, the government launched the Sant-Mahapurush Vichar Samman Evam Prasar Yojana in 2022. Under this scheme, a total of 21 birth anniversaries of great personalities were celebrated at the state level with full dignity and respect during 2025–26, with an expenditure of Rs. 10.72 crore. The objective of these events was to inspire society through the ideas, struggles, and ideals of those great personalities who contributed significantly to nation-building.
He listed several personalities whose anniversaries were celebrated, including Prajapati Jayanti, Guru Gorakhnath Ji, Bhagwan Vishwakarma Jayanti, Maharishi Valmiki Ji, Dhanna Bhagat, Maharana Pratap Jayanti, Bhagwan Parshuram, Ahilya Bai Holkar, Sant Kabir Jayanti, Dr BR Ambedkar Jayanti, Jhalkaribai, Baba Makhan Shah and Baba Lakhi Shah Banjara, Goswami Tulsidas Ji, Partition Horrors Remembrance Day, Agrasen Jayanti, Dada Kushal Singh Dahiya, Shoorsaini Jayanti, Sen Bhagat Jayanti, Guru Brahmanand Jayanti, Veer Bal Diwas, Guru Ravidas Jayanti, Maharishi Kashyap Jayanti, and Pandit Jasraj Jayanti.
He said that honouring great personalities is not related to any one party or ideology, but reflects respect for the shared heritage of society. Today, the youth and new generation are drawing inspiration from the lives of these icons through such programmes. Therefore, calling it unnecessary expenditure or a scam is also disrespectful to these great personalities.
He questioned Dr. Kadian that if he believes the government should spend less than an average of Rs. 50 lakh per celebration in 2026–27, he should specify which personalities’ anniversaries should be curtailed.
Rejecting the allegation as baseless and misleading, the Chief Minister clarified that no such CAG report has been received by the government raising any objection or irregularity regarding expenditure on these celebrations.
He also invited the opposition members to suggest names of any other great personalities whose birth anniversaries should be celebrated, assuring that such events would be organized with due respect and dignity.
Responding to a demand raised by another member of the House regarding the development of a memorial site in the name of Bhagwan Parshuram, he informed that the state government has decided to develop a park and memorial on 4 acres of land in Sector-26, Rohtak, through the Haryana Shehri Vikas Pradhikaran.
On the issue of mining raised by another member, Bharat Bhushan Batra, the Chief Minister said that no accident has been reported since the suspension of Dadam mine in May 2022. He informed that earlier, in compliance with directions of the Hon’ble Tribunal in case OA No. 169/2020 (Kuldeep vs State of Haryana), a six-member inquiry committee was constituted on July 20, 2021, under the chairmanship of retired Hon’ble Justice Sh. Pritampal to ensure an independent and fair investigation.
He further stated that after an incident in Dadam mine on January 1, 2022, in which six people lost their lives, the NGT took suo motu cognizance and constituted an eight-member committee. Subsequently, on January 18, 2022, another committee headed by Sh. S.S. Prasad was formed to investigate the matter. The committee submitted its report based on departmental records, field inspections, technical facts, and expert opinions.
The Prasad Committee, in its report dated September 16, 2022, made five key recommendations. It observed that as per the mining plan, the leaseholder was required to maintain a slope of at least 70 degrees and create benches of 10 meters width and 10 meters height. However, contour mapping by the Director, Mines and Geology, Haryana found slopes between 75 to 80 degrees, and the required benches were not created. These violations led to excess extraction of minerals, and the committee recommended imposing penalties after assessing the excess extraction.
He informed that a departmental committee, during its inspection on July 21, 2022, assessed 6,67,537 metric tonnes of illegal mining. The illegal mining area was found to be 6,019.5 square yards, while the Deputy Commissioner, Bhiwani reported encroachment over 6,732 square yards, leaving a difference of 712.5 square yards to be resolved.
The Chief Minister said that about 5.45 hectares area has been identified as highly sensitive, where mining should be carried out only after implementing corrective measures suggested by the Directorate General of Mines Safety, Ghaziabad. He added that blasting activities cause vibrations leading to instability in loose rocks, and further investigation on this aspect is required. A robust monitoring mechanism is also necessary for environmental safety.
He said that out of the five recommendations, three relate to environmental clearance and two to illegal mining. He added that based on the reports submitted by the committee headed by retired Justice Sh. Pritampal on March 25, 2022, and the eight-member committee on April 1, 2022, show-cause notices have already been issued to the concerned firm by the NGT.
Concluding, Sh. Nayab Singh Saini said that the government has conducted the entire investigation process in the mining case with full transparency and seriousness, effectively addressing the allegations raised by the opposition.
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Haryana Budget Will Accelerate Development Threefold: CM Nayab Singh Saini
Incomplete Decisions During Congress Regime Affected Gurugram’s Urban Infrastructure: CM
Chandigarh, March 17 — Haryana Chief Minister Sh. Nayab Singh Saini, while replying to the discussion on the Budget 2026–27 in the Assembly, said that the state budget will prove to be a strong step towards making Haryana a developed state. He stated that the government is working in accordance with the needs of the people and will continue to maintain this pace of development.
Targeting the opposition, the Chief Minister said that opposing merely for the sake of it is not appropriate. He added that public trust always stays with those who deliver. This budget will not disappoint anyone and will accelerate the state’s development threefold.
During his address, the Chief Minister also raised questions over decisions taken during the Congress regime regarding the construction of 24-metre-wide roads in Gurugram. He said that during the budget discussion, an opposition MLA raised the issue that hundreds of colonies between Sector 58 and Sector 115 in Gurugram lack connectivity through 24-metre-wide roads, but the arguments presented were not factually correct.
Clarifying the matter, the Chief Minister stated that between 2007 and 2014, licenses were granted for 547 colonies spread over more than 7,000 acres in Gurugram between Sectors 58 and 115, based only on 4-karam-wide revenue paths. Although land for the proposed 24-metre-wide roads was taken from the licensees, the land falling between two licensed colonies was neither acquired by HSVP nor was the cost of land acquisition included in the External Development Charges (EDC) payable by the builders.
He informed that the area of these incomplete 24-metre-wide roads is around 1,150 acres. The Chief Minister questioned why the then Congress government did not take the necessary decision at that time. As a result, while colonies continued to develop, the network of 24-metre-wide connecting roads remains incomplete even today.
The Chief Minister said that due to the lack of timely and appropriate decisions, not only has the traffic system been affected, but the development of urban infrastructure has also suffered significantly. In the absence of properly developed 24-metre-wide internal roads, it became extremely difficult for local authorities to provide basic amenities such as water supply, sewerage, stormwater drainage, and street lighting in an integrated manner.
He added that in many places, laying pipelines, establishing sewerage networks, and developing drainage systems faced obstacles because the very road network on which such infrastructure was to be built remained incomplete. The Chief Minister said that this situation clearly reflects the lack of a comprehensive and visionary planning approach for Gurugram’s expansion during that period.