Artists showcase Cultural Heritage at National Conference of Urban Local Body Chairpersons

Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla, CM Nayab Singh Saini and Speaker Harvinder Kalyan attend cultural evening

Evening highlights include Gandharva Instrumental Music, Haryanvi Folk Dance, and a Celebration of India’s Cultural Diversity

Chandigarh, July 4 – A grand cultural evening was organized late last evening as part of the National Conference of Chairpersons of Urban Local Bodies in Manesar, Gurugram. The event was graced by Lok Sabha Speaker Sh. Om Birla, Haryana Chief Minister Sh Nayab Singh Saini, Haryana Assembly Speaker Sh Harvinder Kalyan, Cabinet Ministers Dr. Arvind Sharma, Ms. Aarti Singh Rao, and other dignitaries.

Artists from different areas brought alive the rich tapestry of art and culture during the evening. The program began with a Gandharva instrumental music performance, directed by Pandit Chetan Joshi. Accompanied by fellow musicians, Pandit Joshi presented a captivating fusion of Haryanvi folk and traditional Indian instruments, recreating the mythical melodies associated with the Gandharvas. The harmonious blend of folk culture and instrumental music reverberated through the auditorium, enthralling the audience.

The second performance featured a vibrant Haryanvi folk dance presented by the Monty Sharma troupe. The energetic and colorful display by Haryanvi artists captivated the audience, drawing enthusiastic applause from attendees across the nation.

The final act of the evening was a choreographed performance by the Sanjay Sharma troupe, showcasing the diverse cultural hues of India. The performance was met with resounding applause and appreciation from the audience.

These cultural presentations were organized under the aegis of the Department of Information, Public Relations, Language, and Culture.

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Haryana Excise and Taxation Department already achieves Rs 12,615 Crore revenue in ongoing excise auctions - Excise and Taxation Commissioner

The department has successfully auctioned 1,081 out of 1,194 excise zones across the state

Strict action has been taken against those involved in threatening or extorting licensees

Chandigarh July 4: The Haryana Excise and Taxation Department has already achieved revenue of Rs 12,615 crore during the ongoing excise auctions. So far, the department has successfully auctioned 1,081 out of a total of 1,194 excise zones across the state

While sharing details, Excise and Taxation Commissioner Sh Vinay Pratap Singh said that the retail liquor vend licensees can operate two vends in each zones, thus more than 2150 retail liquor vends have been successfully opened within first three weeks under the new Excise Policy.

The auction of retail liquor vends in Haryana is conducted through a fully transparent e-auction portal

He said that in the ongoing auctions now only 113 zones are left for auctions, which are likely to be auctioned within a few days. He emphasized that the excise auctions for retail liquor vends in Haryana is a completely transparent process which is conducted through e-auction portal. Since, liquor licensees participate freely in the auction process, the excise zones are auctioned at appropriate price determined by a fair process.

Department records significantly higher revenue compared to last year’s auctions

Sh Vinay Pratap further said that this year since Cabinet had approved the Excise Policy for a longer period of almost two years upto 31st March, 2027 the department has been able to earn significantly high revenue as compared to the last year’s auction. In the last round of auction which happened on July 3, 2025 the department successfully auctioned 21 more zones at revenue of Rs. 215 crore.

Department confident of surpassing revenue targets set by the State Government

The Excise and Taxation Commissioner while comparing revenue earned from already auctioned 1081 zones in the ongoing auctions with that of last Excise Policy, said that almost same number of zones have been auctioned till now as compared to last year’s auctions but more than twice revenue has already been secured and department is hopeful to successfully conclude excise auctions within few days and surpass the fixed targets set by the State Government. Total license fee generated during previous year from auctions which continued till August, 2024 was Rs. 7025 crore.

Strict action has been taken against those involved in threatening or extorting licensees

The Excise Commissioner stated that with active intervention by the State Government, prompt and strict action against criminals found indulging in threatening and extortion of licensees has been taken by the Haryana Police.

Under the directions of Chief Minister, Haryana Home Department is keeping close watch on criminals trying to adversely impact excise auction in a few parts of the State. With the recent actions on such criminals the excise auctions have seen greater participation by prospective bidders which has resulted in successful auction of more than 125 zones of Rs. 1370 crore revenue in the last two weeks.

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*Haryana Government Notifies Census 2027; Dr. Sumita Misra Nominated as Nodal Officer for Effective Coordination*

Chandigarh, July 4 - The Haryana Government has notified that the next Census of the state’s population will be conducted in the year 2027. The reference date for the Census has been set as 00:00 hours on March 1, 2027.

The State Government has nominated Dr. Sumita Misra, Additional Chief Secretary and Financial Commissioner, Revenue & Disaster Management and Consolidation Department as the Nodal Officer to oversee all Census 2027-related activities. She will ensure effective coordination between various departments of the State Government, the Census Department, and the Government of India

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Public participation in urban local bodies has to be made a mass movement: Kailash Vijayvargiya

Chandigarh, July 4 – Madhya Pradesh Urban Development and Housing Minister Sh Kailash Vijayvargiya emphasized the critical importance of public participation in Urban Local Bodies, stating that it must be transformed into a mass movement. He said that India’s democratic structure comprises three tiers: the Lok Sabha, the Vidhan Sabha, and Urban Local Bodies. Among these, he said, Urban Local Bodies represent the most grassroots and impactful level of governance.

Sh Vijayvargiya made these remarks while addressing the National Conference of Urban Local Bodies held in Manesar, Gurugram on Friday.

In his address, Sh Kailash Vijayvargiya shared his personal journey, stating that he began his public service as a councillor, later became a mayor, and eventually served in both the Vidhan Sabha and Lok Sabha. Drawing from his experience, he said that Urban Local Bodies are the most direct link between governance and the public. While the work at this level is highly challenging, he said, it is also deeply fulfilling.

Speaking to public representatives from across the country, he recalled a time when the Indore Municipal Corporation faced a severe shortage of funds. In response, he appealed to the public to donate cement. The initiative received an overwhelming response, resulting in cement donations worth Rs 80 crore. This, in turn, enabled the construction of roads worth approximately Rs 300 crore, an exemplary model of public participation.

He also shared a remarkable green initiative from Indore, where a target was set to plant 12.4 lakh saplings in a single day—a goal that was successfully achieved. Remarkably, even after a year, all the saplings have survived, reflecting the true success and sustained impact of community involvement.

Sh Vijayvargiya highlighted that under the leadership of Prime Minister Sh Narendra Modi, there has been an unprecedented increase in the budget for Urban Local Bodies since 2014, resulting in significant progress in the field of urban development.

============================================= Developed India 2047: A resolution to transform urban local bodies through mass movement and public participation

The role of urban institutions as fundamental pillars of democracy was discussed in depth

During the two-day national conference, a consensus was reached to adopt and implement best practices across urban local bodies nationwide

Chandigarh July 4: On the concluding day of the first National Conference of Urban Local Bodies, held in Manesar, district Gurugram, development models presented by leading urban bodies from across the country were thoroughly discussed. In five dedicated sessions, participants deliberated on strengthening the role and contributions of urban local bodies toward building a Developed India by 2047. The conference concluded with a formal resolution to enhance the impact of these institutions in national development.

The valedictory session was graced by the esteemed presence of Deputy Chairman of Rajya Sabha Sh Harivansh, Deputy Speaker of the Haryana Vidhan Sabha Dr. Krishan Lal Middha, Secretary General of the Rajya Sabha Sh P.C. Modi, and other dignitaries.

The session featured detailed discussions on the role of urban institutions as a fundamental pillar of democracy. Representatives from the Nagpur Municipal Corporation shared their experiences, emphasizing that urban local bodies are functioning with a focus on their constitutional rights, serving as engines of inclusive growth and development. Participants highlighted that the core objective of urban local bodies is to bring about positive change in the urban service delivery framework. In the context of the 74th Constitutional Amendment, it was noted that this landmark reform provides a robust institutional framework for the effective delivery of urban services. The amendment also emphasizes the need for municipalities to be responsive to the needs of weaker sections and women. In line with this, provisions for reservation have been made for Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, and women in municipal committees and councils.

A representative from municipal body in West Bengal emphasized that urban local bodies are the cornerstone of India's urban development. Presenting her city's development model, she stressed the need to address financial, institutional, and capacity-related challenges through reforms, innovation, citizen participation, and the use of technology. She noted that with strong political will and a spirit of collaborative governance, urban local bodies can effectively fulfill their constitutional mandate. She further highlighted the importance of ensuring that cities evolve into models of inclusive, resilient, and vibrant development for all citizens.

The seminar also highlighted the pivotal role of women as key drivers of development within urban local bodies. It was noted that Madhya Pradesh has implemented 50 percent reservation for women in urban local governance. Remarkably, currently 60 to 65 percent women are representing urban local bodies there, demonstrating their strong participation and leadership. Similarly, in Haryana, women are actively contributing to urban development by taking on leadership roles in municipal bodies. The discussion also emphasized the potential for urban local bodies to evolve into a true mass movement by integrating development initiatives with active public participation. The need to foster greater community involvement in planning and implementation was discussed .

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Haryana Government Grants Extra Casual Leave to Female Contractual Employees

Chandigarh, July 4 - The Haryana Government today announced a significant enhancement to the casual leave policy for its female contractual employees. In an order issued by Chief Secretary Sh. Anurag Rastogi, it is stated that female contractual employees, including those deployed through Haryana Kaushal Rozgar Nigam Limited, will now be entitled to two days of additional casual leave per month, subject to a maximum of 22 days in a calendar year, more than double the previous limit of 10 days.

This new provision is in addition to the existing 10 days of medical leave provided annually. The revision applies to all female contractual employees working under Outsourcing Policy Part-II and those engaged through HKRNL, the notification added.

All administrative secretaries, heads of departments, managing directors/chief administrators/CEOs of boards/corporations/public undertakings, divisional commissioners, Deputy Commissioners and Sub Divisional Officers (Civil), and Registrars of all universities in Haryana have been directed to ensure strict compliance with these new instructions. ======================================

House Sessions should be held in Municipal Corporations, just like Lok Sabha and Vidhan Sabha: Union Minister Sh Manohar Lal

Such conferences are vital for capacity building; should be held regularly across the country, including through online platforms

Elected representatives of Urban Local Bodies should receive training in conferences and implement learnings at the ground level

Chandigarh July 4: Union Minister for Power, Housing, and Urban Affairs, Sh Manohar Lal, attended the National Conference of Chairpersons of Urban Local Bodies held in Manesar, Gurugram on Friday as the Chief Guest.

In his address, the Minister emphasized the crucial role such conferences play in capacity building for urban governance. He said that this is the first time a conference of urban local body representatives has been organized on such a large scale, marking a significant milestone. He further advocated for the regular organization of similar events across the country, highlighting the importance of utilizing online platforms to ensure broader participation. “Wider engagement will empower more people to contribute and help transform the face of our cities,” he said.

Sh Manohar Lal stated that, similar to the Lok Sabha and Vidhan Sabhas, urban local bodies should also conduct formal House sessions, chaired by a person elected in the manner of the Speaker of the Lok Sabha or Vidhan Sabha. This, he said, would help establish a more transparent and accountable system of governance. The Minister urged public representatives from across the country to actively contribute to strengthening urban local bodies. He also encouraged the implementation of best practices showcased during the conference, especially by those urban bodies that demonstrated exemplary work, to further improve the quality of life and infrastructure in cities.

Urban Development should go hand-in-hand with environmental protection

Union Minister Sh Manohar Lal emphasized that urban development must go hand in hand with environmental protection.

He stated that while pursuing progressive initiatives, it is essential to keep environmental sustainability at the forefront. The Minister highlighted the need to improve traffic systems and simultaneously plan for e-mobility solutions. He noted that while metro rail services began in India in 2002 much later than in the United States, where metros have existed for over 150 years, India has made remarkable progress. Today, metro networks span 1,000 kilometers across 21 cities, which is comparable to the extent of metro systems in the U.S. He added that there are plans to expand this network even further in the future.

Cities to be rebuilt through the Urban Challenge Fund

Union Minister Sh Manohar Lal stated that cities will be redeveloped through the Central Government’s Urban Challenge Fund, under which Rs 1 lakh crore will be allocated.

He emphasized that to improve urban living conditions; best practices from leading cities around the world are being adopted. As part of this effort, a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) has recently been signed with Spain to facilitate the exchange of successful urban development models between the two countries. The Minister highlighted that urbanization in India is accelerating rapidly. In response, both governments and municipal bodies must increase their pace of action. He stressed the need for proper workforce training and the efficient use of time and resources to meet future challenges. Citing data, he said that urbanization in India was at 20 percent in 1970, has risen to 36 percent today, and is projected to reach 50 percent by 2047.

Need to raise awareness among common citizens

Union Minister Sh Manohar Lal stated that while efforts are being made to sensitize public representatives through such events, it is equally important to raise awareness among common citizens.

He emphasized that an informed and aware public leads to greater transparency in the system, resulting in more effective and efficient development work. The Minister also underlined the need for making urban local bodies self-reliant. He said that while these bodies receive a fixed amount of funding from the central and state governments, achieving true self-reliance must go hand-in-hand with ensuring transparency and accountability in their functioning.

Focus on capacity and skill building

Union Minister Sh Manohar Lal emphasized the importance of skill development for employees and officers working in municipal bodies. He encouraged the use of the iGOT Karmayogi platform (https://www.igotkarmayogi.gov.in) for continuous learning and capacity building. So far, 21 states have signed MoUs to adopt the platform. With over 2,000 courses available, individuals can access a wide range of online training modules to enhance their skills and improve performance in their respective roles.

On this occasion, Deputy Chairman of Rajya Sabha Sh Harivansh, Madhya Pradesh Urban Development Minister Sh Kailash Vijayvargiya, Union Minister of State Rao Inderjit Singh, Secretary General Rajya Sabha Sh P.C. Modi, Haryana Vidhan Sabha Speaker Sh Harvinder Kalyan, Deputy Speaker Dr. Krishan Lal Middha, and other dignitaries were present.

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Public representatives should make cities not only "smart" but also capable, inclusive and sustainable: Deputy Speaker

‘Developed India’ vision should be a reality, Not just a goal

Haryana has presented many successful examples of transparency, e-governance and citizen participation in the urban local body sector

Chandigarh, July 4 – Haryana Vidhan Sabha Deputy Speaker Dr. Krishan Lal Midha said that representatives of urban local bodies should strive to make their cities not just “smart,” but also capable, inclusive, and sustainable so that the vision of a ‘Developed India’ becomes not just a goal but a ground reality.

He was addressing representatives of Urban Local Bodies during the closing ceremony of the National Conference in Manesar, Gurugram today.

The Deputy Speaker said that Haryana has already set several successful examples in the areas of transparency, e-governance, and citizen participation within the urban local body sector. Whether in Municipal Corporations like Gurugram and Faridabad or in Municipal Councils across other districts, development plans have consistently been created with citizens at the core. He further remarked that the in-depth discussions held during the conference on the theme “Strengthening Constitutional Democracy and the Role of Urban Local Bodies in Nation Building” were not only timely but also highly relevant in advancing the vision of India as a developed nation.

He said that the empowerment of urban local bodies must be evident on the ground—not merely confined to policy documents. An ideal municipal body, he said, is one where every citizen feels confident that their voice is heard, and their concerns don’t remain stuck in files but move toward practical solutions.

He added that only when all states strengthen their municipal institutions—making them responsive, accountable, and citizen-centric—can we truly realize the full spirit of constitutional democracy.

He underlined that a model urban local body is not just an administrative structure, but a vibrant, responsible, and participatory system that functions transparently and inclusively, aligned with the real needs of its citizens.

He reiterated the vision of an ideal urban local body, one where every decision is made with active citizen participation, and where public voices are translated into effective policies through Mohalla Sabhas and Ward Committees. Administrative processes, he said, must be streamlined through the use of digital technologies; grievances should be addressed promptly; and essential services whether related to water, sanitation, or health must be accessible, efficient, and of high quality, ensuring that the public receives well-organized and reliable urban amenities.

Dr. Midha stated that an ideal municipal body is one that is environmentally conscious, driven by innovation, and committed to empowering women. He emphasized that self-employment schemes for youth, along with safe and accessible infrastructure such as roads, lighting, parks, and public transport, can be effectively implemented through smart initiatives. A truly excellent model of urban governance, he said, is a body that is financially self-reliant, resilient to disasters, and actively working to transform the vision of ‘Developed India 2047’ into a practical reality.

He emphasized the need to build a system where urban local bodies are not seen merely as administrative units, but as shared centers of public sentiment where councillors serve not just as elected representatives, but as true guardians of their communities.

Dr. Midha expressed pride that the Haryana Vidhan Sabha had the honour of hosting this historic event. He extended his gratitude to the Lok Sabha Secretariat, the Haryana Vidhan Sabha Secretariat, and the Gurugram Administration for the successful organization of the two-day national conference.

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