Fight Against Drugs is Not Political; It is a Campaign to Save the Future of Youth: Chief Minister
Chief Minister Raises Questions over Drug Menace in Punjab, Reminds Government of Promises Made to Youth
Chief Minister Joins Fourth Phase of Nasha Mukti Yatra at Fazilka; Yatra to Cover 4,000 km and All 117 Assembly Constituencies by September 30
Chandigarh, September 21 – Haryana Chief Minister, Sh. Nayab Singh Saini, said that Punjab was once known for its prosperity, vibrancy and hardworking youth, but today the drug menace has emerged as a major challenge to the future of its young generation. He said that turning the campaign against drugs into a people’s movement is the need of the hour. The fight against drugs, he said, is not the fight of any political party, but a fight to save the youth and future generations.
The Chief Minister was addressing a gathering after joining the fourth phase of the Nasha Mukti Yatra at Fazilka on Monday. He said that the Yatra, which began on September 18, will continue till September 30 and cover around 4,000 kilometres across all 117 Assembly constituencies of Punjab.
Sh. Nayab Singh Saini said that under the leadership of Prime Minister, Sh. Narendra Modi, the country is fighting the drug menace with determination and every section of society should ensure its participation in this campaign.
The Chief Minister said that the Aam Aadmi Party had promised the people of Punjab that it would eradicate drugs within six months, but the drug problem remains serious even as the government enters the final phase of its tenure. He said that promises were also made to provide employment to youth, but the youth had not benefited from them.
Sh. Nayab Singh Saini said that when industrialists from Punjab met him at the Chief Minister’s residence in Chandigarh and expressed their desire to set up industries in Haryana, he advised them to establish industries in Punjab itself and provide employment opportunities to the youth there. He said that the people of Punjab had made up their minds for change and that the coming time would belong to the BJP.
The Chief Minister said that the Haryana Government has provided government employment to youth through a transparent system. He said that he personally meets a large number of people at his residence every day and makes efforts to resolve their problems. He said that the Haryana Government has fulfilled 70 of the 217 commitments made before the elections and has taken forward several schemes for the welfare of women, farmers, the poor and youth.
Haryana Focuses on Treatment, Employment and Sports to Keep Youth Away from Drugs
The Chief Minister said that the fight against drugs cannot be confined to law enforcement alone. Treatment, rehabilitation, sports and employment opportunities must also be taken forward simultaneously. He said that the Haryana Government is providing free treatment facilities at de-addiction centres, while special emphasis is also being laid on connecting youth with sports and other positive activities.
He said that the government is ensuring MSP for farmers’ crops, providing financial assistance during natural calamities and making timely payments for crop procurement. Pucca houses are being provided to poor families through the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana.
The Chief Minister said that keeping youth away from drugs and providing them opportunities in education, employment, sports and development is the strong foundation of a drug-free society. He called upon the people of Punjab to turn the campaign into a people’s movement and unite against drugs to secure the future of coming generations.
================================================
*Punjab Government is Not of the ‘Aam Aadmi’, but of the ‘Khaas Aadmi’: CM*
*AAP Government Has Gained ‘Experience’ in Increasing Drug Menace, Corruption and Misleading People: CM*
*State Government’s Failure Has Pushed Punjab into Drug Menace: Nayab Singh Saini*
*Future of Punjab’s Youth Cannot be Compromised; Decisive Action Against Drugs if BJP Forms Government: CM*
Chandigarh, September 21 – Haryana Chief Minister, Sh. Nayab Singh Saini, criticised the Aam Aadmi Party government in Punjab for not fulfilling the promises made to the people. He said that AAP had made major promises to the people of Punjab to eradicate drugs, provide employment to youth, procure farmers’ produce and provide financial assistance to women, but even after five years, these promises had not been fulfilled. He accused the AAP government of betraying women, farmers and the poor.
The Chief Minister was addressing the ‘Nasha Virodhi Yatra–Nasha Mukt Punjab’ programme at Sito in Fazilka district of Punjab on Monday.
Sh. Nayab Singh Saini said that before coming to power, the Aam Aadmi Party had made several promises, including eradicating drugs, providing employment to youth and making Punjab a ‘Rangla Punjab’. He said that it was unfortunate that these promises were made merely to secure votes. He asked the people of Punjab whether the drug menace in the State had increased or decreased. He claimed that the drug menace in Punjab had increased fourfold and the State’s debt had also increased fourfold.
Referring to a video on social media in which Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann had said that earlier some people used to say that they lacked experience but now they had gained experience, Sh. Nayab Singh Saini took a dig at him and said, Mann Sahib, you have gained experience in increasing the drug menace, trapping youth in drugs and increasing corruption in the State. He further said that the AAP government had also gained experience in how and from where to extract money and who demands extortion money.
*State Government’s Failure Has Pushed Punjab into Drug Menace*
The Chief Minister said that protecting and guiding the youth has become a challenge today. He said that Punjab, which was once the pride of the country for its bravehearts and for sports such as wrestling and kabaddi, had been pushed into the drug menace due to what he described as a deep conspiracy and the failure of the State Government. He said that the Aam Aadmi Party government had made a mockery of the sentiments of the people of Punjab and that such a government did not deserve to be forgiven.
Sh. Nayab Singh Saini said that the Congress had also promised to eradicate drugs and corruption and provide employment, but the drug problem had increased during the Congress regime and jobs had not been provided. He said that the promises made by the Congress were never fulfilled.
Referring to promises made by AAP leaders before the elections, the Chief Minister said that Arvind Kejriwal used to claim from public platforms that they were honest and that their party was completely honest. He said that AAP had promised to eradicate drugs within three to six months, provide employment to youth, procure farmers’ produce at MSP and provide three lakh jobs, but everyone was aware of the reality.
He asked Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, Arvind Kejriwal and Manish Sisodia to sit together on a public platform and tell the youth of Punjab how many young people had been provided employment and what had been done to eradicate drugs. He remarked that they only knew how to crack jokes rather than work.
*Bhagwant Mann Trying to Seek Votes Again by Concealing Government’s Shortcomings: CM*
The Chief Minister said that Bhagwant Mann had repeatedly given deadlines for eradicating drugs, but nothing had been done. Referring to the ‘Yudh Nashian Virudh’ campaign, he said that the Punjab Government wanted to eradicate drugs by spending the people’s money on television advertisements, while the drug problem was increasing on the ground.
He said that people from Punjab meet him and share their pain, asking where they should go and where they should lodge their complaints. Referring to a recent incident in the Punjab Chief Minister’s Assembly constituency, Sh. Nayab Singh Saini said that a father had raised his voice before a Minister in an effort to save his son, but was humiliated and subsequently died by suicide.
The Chief Minister also referred to a video in which, according to him, Sh. Bhagwant Mann had said that his government had arrested 71,000 people involved in the drug trade. Sh. Nayab Singh Saini questioned the claim, saying that Punjab’s prisons had capacity for only about 35,000 people. He said that the Punjab Government was misleading the people and attempting to conceal its shortcomings to seek votes again.
*Haryana Moving Forward, Why Has Punjab Fallen Behind?*
The Chief Minister said that Haryana and Punjab share a relationship like that of younger and elder brothers, but today a clear difference was visible in the development journey of the two States. He said that under the leadership of Prime Minister Sh. Narendra Modi, Haryana was moving forward rapidly through the double-engine government, while Punjab had fallen behind.
Sh. Nayab Singh Saini said that the Congress had no issue to raise today. He said that AAP leaders should also be asked where the manifesto issued at the time of elections was and how many of its promises had been fulfilled. In contrast, he said that the BJP government in Haryana had made 217 commitments and fulfilled 70 of them in the very first year, while the government under the leadership of Prime Minister Sh. Narendra Modi was continuously working to translate its commitments into action.
*Punjab Government is Not of the ‘Aam Aadmi’, but of the ‘Khaas Aadmi’*
Referring to questions being raised over the recruitment process for Excise Inspectors in Punjab, the Chief Minister said that children of relatives and those close to MLAs and Ministers had been appointed as Excise Inspectors. He further said that there were candidates who had filled two forms, whose examinations were held simultaneously at two centres, and who had qualified at both centres and secured appointment as Excise Inspectors.
Sh. Nayab Singh Saini said that the AAP government had betrayed the common people. He remarked that it was not a government of the ‘Aam Aadmi’ but of the ‘Khaas Aadmi’, and said that the people of Punjab should understand this.
Drawing a comparison with Haryana, he said that more than two lakh youth had been provided government jobs in the State without ‘Parchi-Kharchi’ during the past years. Citing a recent recruitment result in which 29 youth from Punhana alone were selected, he said that no young person required the recommendation of any political person or money to secure a job. He said that this was evidence of good governance and a transparent recruitment system.
*Over Rs. 2,000 Crore Transferred to Women’s Accounts in Haryana; Promise to Women in Punjab Remains Unfulfilled: CM*
The Chief Minister said that the BJP had promised in its Sankalp Patra to provide Rs. 2,100 per month to women and the government had translated this commitment into action. He said that more than Rs. 2,000 crore had been transferred to women’s accounts. In Punjab, he said, the AAP had promised Rs. 1,000 per month to women but had not fulfilled the promise. He remarked that people do not want to hear jokes; they want to hear about work.
*Haryana Government Enacts Stringent Law Against Those Sending Youth Abroad Through Illegal ‘Dunki Route’*
Sh. Nayab Singh Saini said that providing employment opportunities to youth is the responsibility of the government. The Haryana Government has enacted a stringent law against those sending youth abroad through illegal ‘Dunki routes’ and has also taken action against them.
He said that through the Foreign Cooperation Department, youth are being provided safe and transparent opportunities for employment abroad. Vacancies are obtained according to the requirements of companies, interviews of youth are conducted, and the government maintains a record of every young person going abroad. He said that if any youth faces difficulty abroad, the Haryana Government extends assistance. The government’s responsibility, he said, is to guide youth on the right path and secure their future.
*Decisive Action Against Drugs if BJP Forms Government in Punjab: CM*
Sh. Nayab Singh Saini said that if the BJP forms the government in Punjab, stringent action would be taken against those pushing youth into the grip of drugs and no one would be allowed to jeopardise the future of Punjab’s youth.
He said that in Haryana, lakhs of youth are being connected with positive activities through programmes such as marathons, cyclothons and Rahgiri. He said that if youth remain aware and healthy, the fight against the drug menace would become even stronger.
The Chief Minister said that the BJP stands for development, decisive action against drugs, and a secure future and employment for Punjab’s youth. He appealed to the people of Punjab to strengthen the BJP under the leadership of Prime Minister Sh. Narendra Modi. He assured the people that under the Prime Minister’s leadership, all the works carried out in Haryana would also be undertaken in Punjab and no person in Punjab would be allowed to face any difficulty.
================================================
Visit Government Hospitals for Regular Ear and Hearing Check-ups: Arti Singh Rao
Appeals to people to get their ears and hearing checked regularly during International Week of Deaf People
Chandigarh, September 21-Haryana Health Minister Arti Singh Rao has appealed to citizens to immediately visit their nearest government hospital for a regular ear and hearing check-up if they experience any kind of hearing-related problem. The State Government has made adequate facilities for hearing tests and treatment available at all government hospitals across the state.
The Health Minister said that the National Health Mission and Health Department, Haryana, are observing International Week of Deaf People from September 21 to 27, 2026. Issuing an important health advisory to the people of the state, she said that this year's message, “Declaration of Human Rights of Deaf People”, calls for greater awareness among the public about protecting hearing ability and promoting awareness regarding hearing health.
Arti Singh Rao said that hearing difficulty or deafness can affect a person at any age. If a person feels the need to increase the volume of the television or audio device, has difficulty hearing conversations clearly or frequently asks others to repeat themselves, or experiences ringing or buzzing sounds in the ears, these may be signs of hearing loss.
Highlighting the causes of hearing loss, the Health Minister said that ear injuries, excessive earwax accumulation, rubella or other infections, ageing, exposure to excessively loud noise, and side effects of certain toxic or harmful medicines can be major causes of deafness.
The Health Minister urged citizens to adopt measures for proper ear care and protection. She advised people to use earplugs at concerts or places with excessive noise, never insert any sharp or external object into the ear, and keep the volume of audio devices low while avoiding exposure to loud noise.
=================================
Fight Against Drugs is Not Political; It is a Campaign to Save the Future of Youth: Chief Minister
Chief Minister Raises Questions over Drug Menace in Punjab, Reminds Government of Promises Made to Youth
Chief Minister Joins Fourth Phase of Nasha Mukti Yatra at Fazilka; Yatra to Cover 4,000 km and All 117 Assembly Constituencies by September 30
Chandigarh, September 21 – Haryana Chief Minister, Sh. Nayab Singh Saini, said that Punjab was once known for its prosperity, vibrancy and hardworking youth, but today the drug menace has emerged as a major challenge to the future of its young generation. He said that turning the campaign against drugs into a people’s movement is the need of the hour. The fight against drugs, he said, is not the fight of any political party, but a fight to save the youth and future generations.
The Chief Minister was addressing a gathering after joining the fourth phase of the Nasha Mukti Yatra at Fazilka on Monday. He said that the Yatra, which began on September 18, will continue till September 30 and cover around 4,000 kilometres across all 117 Assembly constituencies of Punjab.
Sh. Nayab Singh Saini said that under the leadership of Prime Minister, Sh. Narendra Modi, the country is fighting the drug menace with determination and every section of society should ensure its participation in this campaign.
The Chief Minister said that the Aam Aadmi Party had promised the people of Punjab that it would eradicate drugs within six months, but the drug problem remains serious even as the government enters the final phase of its tenure. He said that promises were also made to provide employment to youth, but the youth had not benefited from them.
Sh. Nayab Singh Saini said that when industrialists from Punjab met him at the Chief Minister’s residence in Chandigarh and expressed their desire to set up industries in Haryana, he advised them to establish industries in Punjab itself and provide employment opportunities to the youth there. He said that the people of Punjab had made up their minds for change and that the coming time would belong to the BJP.
The Chief Minister said that the Haryana Government has provided government employment to youth through a transparent system. He said that he personally meets a large number of people at his residence every day and makes efforts to resolve their problems. He said that the Haryana Government has fulfilled 70 of the 217 commitments made before the elections and has taken forward several schemes for the welfare of women, farmers, the poor and youth.
Haryana Focuses on Treatment, Employment and Sports to Keep Youth Away from Drugs
The Chief Minister said that the fight against drugs cannot be confined to law enforcement alone. Treatment, rehabilitation, sports and employment opportunities must also be taken forward simultaneously. He said that the Haryana Government is providing free treatment facilities at de-addiction centres, while special emphasis is also being laid on connecting youth with sports and other positive activities.
He said that the government is ensuring MSP for farmers’ crops, providing financial assistance during natural calamities and making timely payments for crop procurement. Pucca houses are being provided to poor families through the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana.
The Chief Minister said that keeping youth away from drugs and providing them opportunities in education, employment, sports and development is the strong foundation of a drug-free society. He called upon the people of Punjab to turn the campaign into a people’s movement and unite against drugs to secure the future of coming generations.
===============================================
*Punjab Government is Not of the ‘Aam Aadmi’, but of the ‘Khaas Aadmi’: CM*
*AAP Government Has Gained ‘Experience’ in Increasing Drug Menace, Corruption and Misleading People: CM*
*State Government’s Failure Has Pushed Punjab into Drug Menace: Nayab Singh Saini*
*Future of Punjab’s Youth Cannot be Compromised; Decisive Action Against Drugs if BJP Forms Government: CM*
Chandigarh, September 21 – Haryana Chief Minister, Sh. Nayab Singh Saini, criticised the Aam Aadmi Party government in Punjab for not fulfilling the promises made to the people. He said that AAP had made major promises to the people of Punjab to eradicate drugs, provide employment to youth, procure farmers’ produce and provide financial assistance to women, but even after five years, these promises had not been fulfilled. He accused the AAP government of betraying women, farmers and the poor.
The Chief Minister was addressing the ‘Nasha Virodhi Yatra–Nasha Mukt Punjab’ programme at Sito in Fazilka district of Punjab on Monday.
Sh. Nayab Singh Saini said that before coming to power, the Aam Aadmi Party had made several promises, including eradicating drugs, providing employment to youth and making Punjab a ‘Rangla Punjab’. He said that it was unfortunate that these promises were made merely to secure votes. He asked the people of Punjab whether the drug menace in the State had increased or decreased. He claimed that the drug menace in Punjab had increased fourfold and the State’s debt had also increased fourfold.
Referring to a video on social media in which Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann had said that earlier some people used to say that they lacked experience but now they had gained experience, Sh. Nayab Singh Saini took a dig at him and said, Mann Sahib, you have gained experience in increasing the drug menace, trapping youth in drugs and increasing corruption in the State. He further said that the AAP government had also gained experience in how and from where to extract money and who demands extortion money.
*State Government’s Failure Has Pushed Punjab into Drug Menace*
The Chief Minister said that protecting and guiding the youth has become a challenge today. He said that Punjab, which was once the pride of the country for its bravehearts and for sports such as wrestling and kabaddi, had been pushed into the drug menace due to what he described as a deep conspiracy and the failure of the State Government. He said that the Aam Aadmi Party government had made a mockery of the sentiments of the people of Punjab and that such a government did not deserve to be forgiven.
Sh. Nayab Singh Saini said that the Congress had also promised to eradicate drugs and corruption and provide employment, but the drug problem had increased during the Congress regime and jobs had not been provided. He said that the promises made by the Congress were never fulfilled.
Referring to promises made by AAP leaders before the elections, the Chief Minister said that Arvind Kejriwal used to claim from public platforms that they were honest and that their party was completely honest. He said that AAP had promised to eradicate drugs within three to six months, provide employment to youth, procure farmers’ produce at MSP and provide three lakh jobs, but everyone was aware of the reality.
He asked Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, Arvind Kejriwal and Manish Sisodia to sit together on a public platform and tell the youth of Punjab how many young people had been provided employment and what had been done to eradicate drugs. He remarked that they only knew how to crack jokes rather than work.
*Bhagwant Mann Trying to Seek Votes Again by Concealing Government’s Shortcomings: CM*
The Chief Minister said that Bhagwant Mann had repeatedly given deadlines for eradicating drugs, but nothing had been done. Referring to the ‘Yudh Nashian Virudh’ campaign, he said that the Punjab Government wanted to eradicate drugs by spending the people’s money on television advertisements, while the drug problem was increasing on the ground.
He said that people from Punjab meet him and share their pain, asking where they should go and where they should lodge their complaints. Referring to a recent incident in the Punjab Chief Minister’s Assembly constituency, Sh. Nayab Singh Saini said that a father had raised his voice before a Minister in an effort to save his son, but was humiliated and subsequently died by suicide.
The Chief Minister also referred to a video in which, according to him, Sh. Bhagwant Mann had said that his government had arrested 71,000 people involved in the drug trade. Sh. Nayab Singh Saini questioned the claim, saying that Punjab’s prisons had capacity for only about 35,000 people. He said that the Punjab Government was misleading the people and attempting to conceal its shortcomings to seek votes again.
*Haryana Moving Forward, Why Has Punjab Fallen Behind?*
The Chief Minister said that Haryana and Punjab share a relationship like that of younger and elder brothers, but today a clear difference was visible in the development journey of the two States. He said that under the leadership of Prime Minister Sh. Narendra Modi, Haryana was moving forward rapidly through the double-engine government, while Punjab had fallen behind.
Sh. Nayab Singh Saini said that the Congress had no issue to raise today. He said that AAP leaders should also be asked where the manifesto issued at the time of elections was and how many of its promises had been fulfilled. In contrast, he said that the BJP government in Haryana had made 217 commitments and fulfilled 70 of them in the very first year, while the government under the leadership of Prime Minister Sh. Narendra Modi was continuously working to translate its commitments into action.
*Punjab Government is Not of the ‘Aam Aadmi’, but of the ‘Khaas Aadmi’*
Referring to questions being raised over the recruitment process for Excise Inspectors in Punjab, the Chief Minister said that children of relatives and those close to MLAs and Ministers had been appointed as Excise Inspectors. He further said that there were candidates who had filled two forms, whose examinations were held simultaneously at two centres, and who had qualified at both centres and secured appointment as Excise Inspectors.
Sh. Nayab Singh Saini said that the AAP government had betrayed the common people. He remarked that it was not a government of the ‘Aam Aadmi’ but of the ‘Khaas Aadmi’, and said that the people of Punjab should understand this.
Drawing a comparison with Haryana, he said that more than two lakh youth had been provided government jobs in the State without ‘Parchi-Kharchi’ during the past years. Citing a recent recruitment result in which 29 youth from Punhana alone were selected, he said that no young person required the recommendation of any political person or money to secure a job. He said that this was evidence of good governance and a transparent recruitment system.
*Over Rs. 2,000 Crore Transferred to Women’s Accounts in Haryana; Promise to Women in Punjab Remains Unfulfilled: CM*
The Chief Minister said that the BJP had promised in its Sankalp Patra to provide Rs. 2,100 per month to women and the government had translated this commitment into action. He said that more than Rs. 2,000 crore had been transferred to women’s accounts. In Punjab, he said, the AAP had promised Rs. 1,000 per month to women but had not fulfilled the promise. He remarked that people do not want to hear jokes; they want to hear about work.
*Haryana Government Enacts Stringent Law Against Those Sending Youth Abroad Through Illegal ‘Dunki Route’*
Sh. Nayab Singh Saini said that providing employment opportunities to youth is the responsibility of the government. The Haryana Government has enacted a stringent law against those sending youth abroad through illegal ‘Dunki routes’ and has also taken action against them.
He said that through the Foreign Cooperation Department, youth are being provided safe and transparent opportunities for employment abroad. Vacancies are obtained according to the requirements of companies, interviews of youth are conducted, and the government maintains a record of every young person going abroad. He said that if any youth faces difficulty abroad, the Haryana Government extends assistance. The government’s responsibility, he said, is to guide youth on the right path and secure their future.
*Decisive Action Against Drugs if BJP Forms Government in Punjab: CM*
Sh. Nayab Singh Saini said that if the BJP forms the government in Punjab, stringent action would be taken against those pushing youth into the grip of drugs and no one would be allowed to jeopardise the future of Punjab’s youth.
He said that in Haryana, lakhs of youth are being connected with positive activities through programmes such as marathons, cyclothons and Rahgiri. He said that if youth remain aware and healthy, the fight against the drug menace would become even stronger.
The Chief Minister said that the BJP stands for development, decisive action against drugs, and a secure future and employment for Punjab’s youth. He appealed to the people of Punjab to strengthen the BJP under the leadership of Prime Minister Sh. Narendra Modi. He assured the people that under the Prime Minister’s leadership, all the works carried out in Haryana would also be undertaken in Punjab and no person in Punjab would be allowed to face any difficulty.
==================================================
Visit Government Hospitals for Regular Ear and Hearing Check-ups: Arti Singh Rao
Appeals to people to get their ears and hearing checked regularly during International Week of Deaf People
Chandigarh, September 21-Haryana Health Minister Arti Singh Rao has appealed to citizens to immediately visit their nearest government hospital for a regular ear and hearing check-up if they experience any kind of hearing-related problem. The State Government has made adequate facilities for hearing tests and treatment available at all government hospitals across the state.
The Health Minister said that the National Health Mission and Health Department, Haryana, are observing International Week of Deaf People from September 21 to 27, 2026. Issuing an important health advisory to the people of the state, she said that this year's message, “Declaration of Human Rights of Deaf People”, calls for greater awareness among the public about protecting hearing ability and promoting awareness regarding hearing health.
Arti Singh Rao said that hearing difficulty or deafness can affect a person at any age. If a person feels the need to increase the volume of the television or audio device, has difficulty hearing conversations clearly or frequently asks others to repeat themselves, or experiences ringing or buzzing sounds in the ears, these may be signs of hearing loss.
Highlighting the causes of hearing loss, the Health Minister said that ear injuries, excessive earwax accumulation, rubella or other infections, ageing, exposure to excessively loud noise, and side effects of certain toxic or harmful medicines can be major causes of deafness.
The Health Minister urged citizens to adopt measures for proper ear care and protection. She advised people to use earplugs at concerts or places with excessive noise, never insert any sharp or external object into the ear, and keep the volume of audio devices low while avoiding exposure to loud noise.
================================
Haryana Chief Minister, Sh. Nayab Singh Saini redressing the grievances of the people
CHANDIGARH, 21.09.26-Haryana Chief Minister, Sh. Nayab Singh Saini redressing the grievances of the people at his residence Sant Kabir Kutir in Chandigarh on September 21, 2026.
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*Haryana Accelerates Minority Welfare Initiatives Through Infrastructure, Credit and Skill Development*
*State Achieves 99.97% Physical Completion Under Pradhan Mantri Jan Vikas Karyakram*
Chandigarh, September 21: Haryana has completed 2,901 of the 2,902 units sanctioned under the Pradhan Mantri Jan Vikas Karyakram (PMJVK), achieving 99.97 percent physical completion, while minority-focused credit programmes have extended financial assistance to thousands of beneficiaries across the state. The details were shared at a high-level review meeting chaired by Secretary, Ministry of Minority Affairs, Government of India, Dr. Srivatsa Krishna, and Haryana Chief Secretary Sh. Anurag Rastogi here on Monday.
Reviewing the implementation of schemes of the Ministry of Minority Affairs, Dr. Srivatsa Krishna and Sh. Rastogi took stock of infrastructure projects, credit and livelihood programmes, Waqf property digitisation, scholarships and other initiatives aimed at improving socio-economic opportunities for minority communities.
Additional Chief Secretary, SEWA Department, Smt. G Anupama informed that the PMJVK projects have a total approved cost of ₹156.21 crore, including a Central share of ₹109.24 crore. Against the Central release, utilisation certificates worth ₹94.84 crore have been received.
The review also highlighted Haryana's performance in providing affordable credit to minority communities through the Haryana Backward Classes and Economically Weaker Sections Kalyan Nigam (HBCKN). The corporation has provided ₹84.31 crore in cumulative term-loan assistance to 11,879 beneficiaries and recorded 99.97 percent repayment to the National Minorities Development and Finance Corporation (NMDFC). Beneficiary-level recovery stood at 96 per cent.
For 2026-27, ₹7.19 crore has been allocated under the Term Loan Scheme for around 439 beneficiaries. Ten awareness-cum-loan camps and a Marketing Assistance Programme have also been sanctioned. Haryana has enhanced its government guarantee to NMDFC from ₹25 crore to ₹35 crore, facilitating scope for further disbursement.
In Nuh, the Mewat Development Agency (MDA) has extended ₹11.96 crore in loans to 3,779 minority beneficiaries. This includes ₹9.77 crore in microfinance assistance to 3,365 beneficiaries and ₹2.18 crore in term and education loans to 414 beneficiaries.
Significant progress was also reported in the digitisation of Waqf properties. As of September 16, 12,919 Waqf properties had been approved on the UMEED portal, while cases pending at the Maker level fell from 408 to 33 since August 19. On scholarships, the meeting was informed that verification had reached 95 per cent across 13 districts, while all 64 institutes examined were found to be correctly verified.
The meeting also reviewed preparations for Lok Samvardhan Parv, issues related to updating the UMEED portal, the status of scholarship schemes and minority skill-development and livelihood initiatives.
Sh. Rastogi emphasised timely completion of the remaining works, close monitoring of implementation and effective last-mile delivery, with the focus on ensuring that infrastructure, credit, education and livelihood schemes translate into tangible benefits for eligible beneficiaries across Haryana.
Additional Chief Secretary, Home, Sh. Sudhir Rajpal, Director, SEWA Department, Sh. Ajay Kumar, and other senior officers were present in the meeting.
===============================================
*PM-SETU to Transform Haryana’s ITIs with Industry-Led Training and Emerging Technology Courses*
*Haryana Emerges as Country’s Leader in Apprentices per Lakh Population, 4.73 Lakh Engaged*
*Chief Secretary Anurag Rastogi Reviews PM-SETU and NAPS, Calls for Industry-Responsive Skill Training*
Chandigarh, September 21: Haryana is pushing a major industry-linked overhaul of its skill-training ecosystem, with 60 government ITIs across 12 clusters slated for upgradation, courses in artificial intelligence, drones, electric vehicles, cyber security, semiconductors and green hydrogen being introduced, and more than 4.73 lakh apprentices engaged since 2016-17. The details were highlighted at a high-level review meeting chaired by Chief Secretary Sh. Anurag Rastogi here today.
The review of the Pradhan Mantri Skilling and Employability Transformation through Upgraded ITIs (PM-SETU) and the National Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme (NAPS) focused on making vocational training more responsive to emerging technologies and actual industry demand, while widening apprenticeships and employment linkages.
Additional Chief Secretary, Youth Empowerment and Entrepreneurship, Smt. G Anupama informed that under PM-SETU, Haryana has identified 12 clusters comprising 60 hub-and-spoke ITIs for upgradation over the next five years. Nationally, the ₹60,000-crore programme seeks to upgrade 1,000 ITIs — 200 hubs and 800 spokes — and skill 20 lakh youth over five years.
A key feature of the programme is its industry-led governance model. An Anchor Industry Partner will hold 51% shareholding in the Special Purpose Vehicle for a cluster and play a central role in preparing its five-year Strategic Investment Plan based on local labour-market demand and future skill requirements. The programme envisages defined targets for employability, placement quality and salary outcomes.
Industry partners will also help identify emerging job roles, redesign existing courses, develop new programmes, bring industry experts and master trainers into ITIs, modernise workshops, laboratories and digital classrooms and create pipelines for apprenticeships, on-the-job training and placements.
The scheme provides for funding of up to ₹81 crore for each hub ITI and ₹40 crore for each spoke ITI. Of its ₹60,000-crore national outlay, ₹56,900 crore is earmarked for upgrading 200 hub and 800 spoke ITIs, ₹1,500 crore for strengthening five National Skill Training Institutes and ₹1,600 crore for digital infrastructure and administrative support.
Haryana has floated Requests for Proposal for five clusters — Kurukshetra, Kalayat, Sonipat, Jhajjar and Palwal. Bids were received for Kurukshetra and Kalayat and evaluated before the State Steering Committee. The committee approved the proposals and Strategic Investment Plans for further consideration at the national level.
The apprenticeship figures presented at the review showed a steep expansion over the past decade. According to data on the national apprenticeship portal, 4,73,354 apprentices were engaged in Haryana between 2016-17 and September 19, 2026. Annual engagement increased from 5,225 in 2016-17 to 86,565 in 2025-26, while another 51,550 apprentices had been engaged in 2026-27 as of September 19, including 9,106 in designated trades and 42,444 in optional trades.
Director, Skill Development & Industrial Training, Sh. Parth Gupta informed that Haryana is No. 1 in the country in the number of apprentices per lakh population, with the figure rising from 76 per lakh in 2017 to 1,814 in 2026. The state also bagged the 2017 'Champion of Change' award for engaging the maximum number of apprentices.
He said to connect candidates with employers, Pradhan Mantri National Apprenticeship Melas are scheduled in eight districts every month. Departmental figures show 255 melas were organised from 2022-23 to 2026-27, including 39 so far in the current year.
The institutional framework for monitoring and execution is already in place. District Apprenticeship Committees have been constituted under the chairmanship of Deputy Commissioners, and dedicated apprenticeship and placement cells are operational at government ITIs. These district committees are mandated to review progress on a quarterly basis, including industry participation, apprentice engagement and resolution of operational bottlenecks.
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Fight Against Drugs is Not Political; It is a Campaign to Save the Future of Youth: Chief Minister
Chief Minister Raises Questions over Drug Menace in Punjab, Reminds Government of Promises Made to Youth
Chief Minister Joins Fourth Phase of Nasha Mukti Yatra at Fazilka; Yatra to Cover 4,000 km and All 117 Assembly Constituencies by September 30
Chandigarh, September 21 – Haryana Chief Minister, Sh. Nayab Singh Saini, said that Punjab was once known for its prosperity, vibrancy and hardworking youth, but today the drug menace has emerged as a major challenge to the future of its young generation. He said that turning the campaign against drugs into a people’s movement is the need of the hour. The fight against drugs, he said, is not the fight of any political party, but a fight to save the youth and future generations.
The Chief Minister was addressing a gathering after joining the fourth phase of the Nasha Mukti Yatra at Fazilka on Monday. He said that the Yatra, which began on September 18, will continue till September 30 and cover around 4,000 kilometres across all 117 Assembly constituencies of Punjab.
Sh. Nayab Singh Saini said that under the leadership of Prime Minister, Sh. Narendra Modi, the country is fighting the drug menace with determination and every section of society should ensure its participation in this campaign.
The Chief Minister said that the Aam Aadmi Party had promised the people of Punjab that it would eradicate drugs within six months, but the drug problem remains serious even as the government enters the final phase of its tenure. He said that promises were also made to provide employment to youth, but the youth had not benefited from them.
Sh. Nayab Singh Saini said that when industrialists from Punjab met him at the Chief Minister’s residence in Chandigarh and expressed their desire to set up industries in Haryana, he advised them to establish industries in Punjab itself and provide employment opportunities to the youth there. He said that the people of Punjab had made up their minds for change and that the coming time would belong to the BJP.
The Chief Minister said that the Haryana Government has provided government employment to youth through a transparent system. He said that he personally meets a large number of people at his residence every day and makes efforts to resolve their problems. He said that the Haryana Government has fulfilled 70 of the 217 commitments made before the elections and has taken forward several schemes for the welfare of women, farmers, the poor and youth.
Haryana Focuses on Treatment, Employment and Sports to Keep Youth Away from Drugs
The Chief Minister said that the fight against drugs cannot be confined to law enforcement alone. Treatment, rehabilitation, sports and employment opportunities must also be taken forward simultaneously. He said that the Haryana Government is providing free treatment facilities at de-addiction centres, while special emphasis is also being laid on connecting youth with sports and other positive activities.
He said that the government is ensuring MSP for farmers’ crops, providing financial assistance during natural calamities and making timely payments for crop procurement. Pucca houses are being provided to poor families through the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana.
The Chief Minister said that keeping youth away from drugs and providing them opportunities in education, employment, sports and development is the strong foundation of a drug-free society. He called upon the people of Punjab to turn the campaign into a people’s movement and unite against drugs to secure the future of coming generations.
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*Haryana Plans ₹2,295-Crore Rural Infra Push, Explores NABARD Funding for Green and Sustainable Infrastructure*
Chandigarh, September 21: Haryana has drawn up rural infrastructure proposals worth ₹2,295.27 crore for improvement of irrigation, roads, drinking-water supply and storage infrastructure, with ₹2,180.50 crore proposed as loan assistance under NABARD’s Rural Infrastructure Development Fund (RIDF). Chief Secretary Sh. Anurag Rastogi reviewed the progress of NABARD-assisted infrastructure projects in the State and emphasised faster implementation of ongoing projects and timely submission of drawal claims by implementing departments. The six proposals prioritised by the Government of Haryana for 2026-27 cover major investments in irrigation, drinking water, roads and warehousing infrastructure.
NABARD Chief General Manager Smt. Nivedita Tiwary informed that the new proposals include an irrigation proposal with a total financial outlay of ₹315.36 crore and proposed RIDF assistance of ₹299.59 crore, besides 57 road projects for improvement, widening and strengthening of roads involving a total outlay of ₹495.71 crore and proposed RIDF assistance of ₹470.92 crore. Both proposals have been submitted on the RIDF web portal.
A major rural drinking-water proposal covering five Mahagram villages — Bichore, Bisru, Nai, Singar and Pingawan — in Nuh and Palwal districts has a total financial outlay of ₹744.59 crore, with proposed RIDF assistance of ₹707.36 crore. The proposal envisages augmentation of water sources through construction of Ranney Wells and related infrastructure in the Yamuna flood plain. In view of the expected normative allocation under RIDF, the proposal has been split into two phases, with approval of the Haryana Finance Department awaited for the ₹299-crore first phase.
Another proposal involving ₹290.74 crore has been submitted for construction of 2,30,508 MT godown capacity on vacant land available with Haryana State Warehousing Corporation (HSWC) and reconstruction of 1,23,664 MT godown capacity in low-lying campuses. The proposed loan component is ₹276.20 crore. The Finance Department has approved that the project may also be considered for financing under NABARD Infrastructure Development Assistance (NIDA).
The Chief Secretary also reviewed the India International Horticulture Market (IIHM), Ganaur, Sonipat, for which NABARD has sanctioned a term loan of ₹1,850 crore under NIDA. The project has a three-year financial phasing from 2025-26 to 2027-28. An amount of ₹451 crore was released during 2025-26, against the phased amount of ₹740 crore, leaving a disbursement gap of ₹289 crore. The phased disbursement for 2026-27 is ₹740 crore, and HIHMCL was requested to submit claims in line with project progress to facilitate completion within the stipulated timeline.
Micro-irrigation was another key area reviewed at the meeting. Four new proposals carrying a loan component of ₹264.24 crore under the Micro Irrigation Fund (MIF) have been recommended by the Steering Committee. The loan application of MICADA, Government of Haryana, has also been recommended by the Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare, Government of India, for consideration for sanction by NABARD under MIF.
The meeting reviewed the progress of ongoing RIDF projects across various implementing departments. As per financial phasing, a disbursement gap of ₹962.81 crore was reported as on August 17, 2026, under ongoing RIDF Tranches XXVIII to XXXI. The implementing departments were advised to expedite project execution and submit drawal claims regularly in accordance with the physical and financial progress of projects. Department-wise progress relating to irrigation, roads, public health engineering, education, animal husbandry, agricultural marketing, warehousing and other infrastructure projects was also reviewed.
The meeting was also apprised that the Ministry of Finance, Government of India, has approved a borrowing power of ₹2,300 crore from NABARD for Haryana during 2026-27 under Article 293(3) of the Constitution of India. Considering expected disbursements of about ₹1,600 crore under RIDF and MIF, the State has scope to identify additional infrastructure projects for possible financing under RIAS, NIDA and NABARD Green Lending Facility (NGLF) so as to optimally utilise the available borrowing headroom.
Among the potential projects discussed was HAREDA’s proposal for solarisation of Government and public buildings. The Phase-I proposal envisages solarisation of about 100 MW, with an estimated project cost of ₹470 crore and proposed NABARD assistance of about ₹423 crore. The initiative could be considered under an appropriate NABARD financing window, subject to eligibility and applicable guidelines.
The Water Secure Haryana Program was also discussed as a major opportunity for NABARD assistance. The programme has a total project cost of about ₹5,714 crore, comprising around ₹4,000 crore of World Bank assistance and ₹1,714 crore as the State Government’s contribution. It aims to strengthen water security and climate resilience through groundwater recharge, improvement in irrigation and water-use efficiency, rejuvenation of water bodies and watercourses, promotion of micro-irrigation and reuse of treated wastewater. Considering the substantial State share, Haryana may explore NABARD assistance for financing its contribution under RIAS, subject to eligibility and applicable guidelines.
The Irrigation & Water Resources Department has also identified four projects aggregating ₹2,068.33 crore for possible financing under RIAS/NIDA and has approached the Finance Department, Government of Haryana, for taking the proposal forward.
The review thus focused not only on accelerating implementation and disbursement under ongoing RIDF and MIF projects, but also on leveraging NABARD’s wider infrastructure financing windows for Haryana’s emerging requirements in water security, renewable energy, sustainable infrastructure and other eligible green and climate-resilient investments.
Principal Secretary to Chief Minister Sh. Arun Kumar Gupta, Additional Chief Secretary, PW (B&R), Sh. Apoorva Kumar Singh, Principal Secretary, Animal Husbandry, Sh. Vijay Singh Dahiya, and other senior officers of the State Government and NABARD were present in the meeting.
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*250 PM SHRI Schools in Haryana to Be Transformed with Modern Facilities: Mahipal Dhanda*
Chandigarh, September 21: Haryana Education Minister Sh. Mahipal Dhanda said that the State Government is continuously working to strengthen and modernise the infrastructure of government schools across the state. As part of this initiative, 250 PM SHRI schools in Haryana are being developed with special focus on libraries, green campuses, digital classrooms, smart classrooms and state-of-the-art laboratories. The libraries in these schools will be equipped with high-quality infrastructure to provide students with quality education and a conducive learning environment.
The Education Minister was chairing a review meeting with senior officers of the Education Department at his official residence in Chandigarh on Monday. Detailed discussions were held on the transformation of schools, expansion of basic facilities and promotion of sports activities.
The Education Minister directed the officers to ensure that the work of transforming government schools is completed within the stipulated timeline. He said that any laxity or negligence in development works and the academic system would not be tolerated. In case of any delay at any level, accountability of the concerned officers would be fixed.
Referring to Haryana's achievements in sports, Sh. Mahipal Dhanda said that Haryana is a hub of sports in the country and its soil has produced several renowned sportspersons who have brought laurels to the nation at the global level. He said the State Government's key objective is to ensure that Haryana's sportspersons win an even greater number of medals for the country at the 2036 Olympic Games.
To achieve this long-term goal, preparations are being initiated at the grassroots level, beginning with schools. Under this initiative, high-quality sports equipment will be provided to players in government schools across the state. Sports equipment will be distributed according to local sporting interests and requirements so that budding sportspersons can receive proper training and resources from an early age.
Principal Secretary, School Education Department, Haryana, Sh. Vijay Singh Dahiya, Director, Haryana School Shiksha Pariyojna Parishad, Sh. Swapnil Ravindra Patil, and other officers were present at the meeting.
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*Process Underway to Develop Four ‘Gau Vans’ Along with Gaushalas in Haryana: Mohan Lal Kaushik*
*Registered Gaushalas Can Apply for Fodder Grant on Portal till October 14*
*Drive to Shift Stray Cattle to Additional Gaushalas*
Chandigarh, September 21 – Chairman, Haryana Bureau of Public Enterprises, Sh. Mohan Lal Kaushik, said that as per the directions of the Haryana Government, necessary measures are being taken to free villages and cities from the problem of stray cattle. Along with gaushalas, the process to develop four ‘Gau Vans’ in the State is also underway.
Sh. Mohan Lal Kaushik was presiding over a meeting with office-bearers of the Haryana Gau Seva Aayog in Chandigarh on Monday. During the meeting, he also reviewed the progress of work related to HAFED, Natural Farming and the Khadi and Village Industries Board.
Sh. Mohan Lal Kaushik said that Chief Minister, Sh. Nayab Singh Saini, has directed Gram Panchayats in the State to provide at least 10 acres of Gaucharan land to gaushalas so that adequate fodder can be made available for cows.
Sh. Mohan Lal Kaushik said that around 70,000 cows are presently roaming on roads across the State. The cooperation of the Haryana Gau Seva Aayog, Gram Panchayats and Urban Local Bodies is being sought to provide safe shelter to these cows in gaushalas and Gau Vans. Around 40,000 cows are being accommodated in nearly 707 registered gaushalas in the State. In accordance with the Chief Minister’s announcement, a drive is being undertaken to shift the remaining cows to additional gaushalas.
*36 Gaushalas to Become Operational This Month, Including 14 New Gaushalas*
Sh. Mohan Lal Kaushik said that work on developing a Gau Van over 89 acres at Bhojawas village in Mahendragarh is in its final stage. The process of developing Gau Vans at Rajpura Khadar village in Palwal, Bhuna village in Kaithal and Sambhli village in Karnal is also being completed.
He said that of the 22 gaushalas will be made operational this month, while the process of opening 14 new gaushalas is also underway. He said that developing gaushalas and Gau Vans, providing safe shelter to cows and ensuring fodder and other facilities for them are among the key objectives of the government.
Sh. Mohan Lal Kaushik said that e-rickshaws will soon be provided to registered gaushalas across the State. These ‘Gau Seva Raths’ will be used to provide assistance to injured and sick cows.
He said that the government is providing financial assistance as a fodder grant for arranging fodder for cows. The portal for the fodder grant is currently open, and registered gaushalas can apply for the grant till October 14. Thereafter, a six-month instalment of the fodder grant will be released. The government has set a target of providing Rs. 300 crore as fodder grant to gaushalas this year.
Sh. Mohan Lal Kaushik said that a proposal has been sent for constructing iron sheds in 200 gaushalas this year. Financial assistance of Rs. 10 lakh is provided for construction of an iron shed. Last year, sheds were constructed in 49 gaushalas.
He said that a laboratory has been established at Lala Lajpat Rai University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Hisar, at a cost of several crore rupees for improving cattle breeds. Officers have been directed to expedite the work so that better breeds of cows can be made available to farmers in Haryana. He said that work on cattle breed improvement has been undertaken in Gujarat, Uttarakhand and Punjab, and similar efforts will be made in Haryana to promote cattle breeds.
Sh. Mohan Lal Kaushik said that a gaushala has also been constructed at Ratewali in Panchkula and will soon be registered. Besides, a Gau Vansh Research Centre will be established by utilising the existing building at Sukhdarshanpur, where Panchgavya products will also be developed. Swadeshi fairs will also be organised at the building.
He further said that a plant for producing phosphate-enriched organic manure will be established at Dhobi village in Hisar.
OSD to Chief Minister, Sh. B.B. Bharti, Haryana Gau Seva Aayog Chairman, Sh. Ram Chand Kamboj, and several senior officers also remained present.
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*Punjab’s Youth Need a Drug-Free Future and Fair Employment Opportunities, Not Empty Slogans: CM*
*Punjab’s Sacred Land Must Be Freed from Drug Trade; Firm Action Against Drug Peddlers if BJP Forms Government in 2027: CM*
*Take the Fight Against Drugs to Every Village, Turn it into a People’s Movement, says Nayab Singh Saini*
Chandigarh, September 21 – Haryana Chief Minister, Sh. Nayab Singh Saini, said that Punjab has always been known for the message of ‘Kirat Karo, Naam Japo and Vand Chakko’ given by Sri Guru Nanak Dev Ji and the legacy of Sarbans Daani Sri Guru Gobind Singh Ji, its hardworking farmers, brave soldiers guarding the nation’s borders and Punjabis who have earned recognition across the world through their hard work.
He said that those involved in the drug trade cannot be tolerated on such a sacred and glorious land. Under the leadership of Prime Minister, Sh. Narendra Modi, the Bharatiya Janata Party has taken up the resolve to make Punjab drug-free, he said.
Sh. Nayab Singh Saini assured the people of Punjab that if the BJP forms the government in 2027, firm action would be taken against those spreading drugs in the State. Those involved in the drug trade will either have to give it up or leave Punjab. There will be no place for such people in the State, he said.
The Chief Minister was addressing a gathering during the Nasha Mukt Yatra at Jalalabad in Punjab on Monday. He said that the campaign against drugs should not remain confined to a political programme or a roadshow, but should reach every village and become a genuine people’s movement.
He called upon party workers and social organisations to reach out to families affected by drug abuse, extend support to youth caught in the grip of addiction and help them return to the mainstream of society.
*Promises on Drug-Free Punjab Gave Way to Repeated Deadlines: CM*
The Chief Minister said that the Aam Aadmi Party had made several promises to the people of Punjab on eliminating the drug menace. Before coming to power, it had promised to eradicate drugs within three to six months, but thereafter the deadlines kept changing. He said that deadlines for decisive action against drugs were announced first for August 15, 2024, then December 31, 2024, and subsequently March 1, 2025.
Sh. Nayab Singh Saini said that the people of Punjab are now asking when the promise made to them during the elections would actually be fulfilled. He said that anti-drug campaigns had been publicised through large advertisements and posters, but the people of Punjab want to see change on the ground. He said that the Punjab Government had spent funds meant for public welfare on advertisements.
*Act Against Major Players in Drug Trade: CM*
The Chief Minister questioned under whose patronage major drug traffickers in Punjab were flourishing. He said that while smaller operators were being apprehended for public display, action was not being taken against the major players involved in the drug trade.
He said that the Aam Aadmi Party had issued large advertisements, put up colourful posters and repeatedly given new names to its anti-drug campaigns, but the youth of Punjab need more than slogans. Punjab’s youth need freedom from drugs, treatment, employment and dignity, he said.
Sh. Nayab Singh Saini said that the Punjab Chief Minister’s residence in Chandigarh is barely 500 metres from his own residence, Sant Kabir Kutir. He said that around 2,000 to 2,500 people visit Sant Kabir Kutir every day with their grievances, whereas an ordinary citizen is unable to even reach the Punjab Chief Minister’s residence.
The Chief Minister said that listening to people’s grievances and resolving them is the responsibility of the government. He said that the Aam Aadmi Party Government in Punjab had betrayed the trust of the people.
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*Namo Cricket League Connecting Haryana’s Youth with Sports, Spreading Message Against Drug Abuse*
*Youth Should Embrace a Healthy and Positive Lifestyle Through Sports: Vipul Goel*
*Future Champions Will Emerge from Village Sports Grounds, Youth Should Stay Away from Drugs: Dr Arvind Sharma*
*Vipul Goel Encourages Players at Tau Devi Lal Stadium, Gurugram; Dr Arvind Sharma Attends Closing Ceremonies at Mahlana and Noona Majra*
*Around 3,200 Teams and Over 50,000 Players Associated with Namo Cricket League Across Haryana*
Chandigarh, September 21 – Haryana Cabinet Ministers, Sh. Vipul Goel and Dr Arvind Sharma, on Monday, attended Namo Cricket League programmes at different venues and encouraged young players to make sports an integral part of their lives and stay away from drugs. Sh. Vipul Goel attended the ongoing league at Tau Devi Lal Stadium in Gurugram, while Dr Arvind Sharma attended the closing ceremonies of the league at village Mahlana, in Sonipat district and village Noona Majra in Jhajjar district.
The Namo Cricket League is being organised as part of the programmes marking the birthday of Prime Minister Sh. Narendra Modi, with the objective of promoting sports, providing a platform to grassroots talent and encouraging youth to adopt a healthy and positive lifestyle.
*Youth Should Adopt Healthy Lifestyle Through Sports: Vipul Goel*
Urban Local Bodies and Revenue Minister, Sh. Vipul Goel, while encouraging players at Tau Devi Lal Stadium in Gurugram, said that the Namo Cricket League aims to promote sports and keep youth away from the menace of drugs. A total of 96 teams are participating in the four-day tournament, which is spreading the message, “Say No to Drugs, Say Yes to Cricket.”
Sh. Vipul Goel said that participation in sports encourages youth to lead a healthy and positive life. He said that initiatives such as the Namo Cricket League provide young players an opportunity to showcase their talent while strengthening their association with sports.
Political Secretary to the Chief Minister and Convenor of the League, Sh. Tarun Bhandari, said that youth should channel their energy positively through sports, which inculcate discipline, promote good health and foster a spirit of cooperation.
Haryana State Commission for Women Chairperson, Smt. Usha Priyadarshi, congratulated the organisers and encouraged the players. Namo Cricket League Gurugram Convenor, Advocate Anita Tripathi, welcomed the guests and briefed them about the four-day tournament.
*Future Champions Will Emerge from Village Sports Grounds: Dr Arvind Sharma*
Cabinet Minister, Dr. Arvind Sharma, attended the closing ceremony of the Namo Cricket League at village Mahlana, where 65 teams participated. He also attended the closing ceremony organised under the Seva Sankalp Abhiyan on the theme ‘Seva Mera Yogdan’ at Shaheed Rajesh Joon Sports Stadium in village Noona Majra, where 93 teams from Jhajjar district participated.
Dr Arvind Sharma said that Haryana’s villages have immense sporting talent and that with the right opportunities, training and facilities, players emerging from village sports grounds can reach the national and international levels. He said that the government is working to ensure that no talented player is deprived of an opportunity to showcase his or her abilities merely due to lack of resources.
He said that around 3,200 teams and more than 50,000 players are associated with the Namo Cricket League across Haryana. Such large-scale participation of youth in sports is a positive sign, and competitions at the grassroots level provide talented players an opportunity to move forward.
Dr Arvind Sharma said that under the leadership of Chief Minister Sh. Nayab Singh Saini, the State Government is promoting sporting talent through sports nurseries, training and improved sports facilities. Players are being encouraged through cash awards, Bhim Awards and opportunities in government services.
*Make Sports a Passion, Discipline a Part of Life: Dr. Arvind Sharma*
Calling upon youth to stay away from drugs, Dr. Arvind Sharma said that those who have a bat and ball in their hands and a dream to move forward should channel their energy towards sports, education and building their future. Sports not only keep youth physically fit but also teach discipline, hard work, teamwork and the ability to rise again after setbacks.
Dr Arvind Sharma administered an anti-drug pledge to players at the programmes and urged them to stay away from drugs and also make their friends and others around them aware of their harmful effects. He said that victory and defeat are part of sports, but discipline, brotherhood and sportsmanship should always remain paramount.
Former Agriculture Minister, Sh. Om Prakash Dhankhar, who attended the closing ceremony at Noona Majra, said that sports teach players to accept defeat, rise again and continue striving. He said that the playing field teaches important lessons of resilience and perseverance.
At Mahlana, Dr Arvind Sharma also took to the cricket field, picked up the bat and hit a boundary to encourage the participating players.