*Global Artificial Intelligence (AI) Centre to come up in Haryana with the support of World Bank*

*With the establishment of AI Centre, Haryana will develop as a centre for AI research and innovation*

*A comprehensive plan to be made for interlinking of rivers in Haryana*

*Haryana to become pollution free State by 2030*

Chandigarh, November 29 – In a significant development, the Haryana state will soon be home to a Global Artificial Intelligence (AI) Centre with the assistance of the World Bank. This development was discussed in a meeting between Haryana Chief Minister, Sh. Nayab Singh Saini, and representatives of the World Bank here today. Industries and Commerce, Environment, Forest and Wildlife and Foreign Cooperation Minister Rao Narbir Singh was also present in the meeting.

The Chief Minister said that the present State Government in its manifesto has announced to establish Haryana as a global education hub through which the youth would be imparted training in Artificial Intelligence and modern skills. This initiative of Global AI Center is set to position Haryana as a hub for artificial intelligence research and innovation. This collaboration is expected to boost the state’s technological capabilities and contribute to the growth of the digital economy in the region.

In addition to the AI Centre, the Chief Minister also expressed keen interest for collaboration with the World Bank on the ambitious Interlinking of Rivers project. The World Bank also expressed keen interest in cooperation in this direction. The interlinking of rivers is expected to significantly improve irrigation facilities across the state and help implement the Amrit Sarover Scheme, which aims to rejuvenate water bodies and enhance water storage capacity particularly in rural areas. This collaboration will ensure better water management, improve agricultural productivity, and contribute to the long-term sustainability of Haryana’s water resources. He said that a team from the state of Haryana will soon visit Gujarat to study the interlinking of rivers in Gujarat.

*Haryana to become pollution free State by 2030*

Furthermore, during the meeting, the Haryana Clean Air Project was also discussed. This initiative is aimed at enhancing sustainable development in the state and improving air quality. With a total project investment of Rs. 3647 crore, the World Bank has committed to providing a loan of Rs. 2498 crore to support the implementation of the project. The Haryana state government will contribute Rs. 1066 crore, and an additional Rs. 83 crore has been allocated as a grant. This funding will be directed towards initiatives such as air pollution control measures, sustainable urban development, and the promotion of cleaner technologies.

Sh. Nayab Singh Saini, expressed his gratitude to the World Bank for its continued support, emphasizing the importance of these projects for the state's growth and sustainability. “These initiatives will not only improve the quality of life for our citizens but will also set Haryana on a path to becoming a leader in technology, water management, and environmental sustainability,” said the Chief Minister.

*Haryana holds immense potential for economic growth - Auguste Koume*

The World Bank's Country Director for India, Sh. Auguste Koume, stated that Haryana holds immense potential for economic growth. Due to its proximity to the national capital, Delhi, Haryana attracts foreign investors, making it a preferred destination for investment. He praised the Haryana government for the Haryana Clean Air Project and expressed gratitude to Chief Minister Sh. Nayab Singh Saini, assuring full cooperation from the World Bank.

Chief Principal Secretary to Chief Minister, Rajesh Khullar, Principal Secretary to Chief Minister Arun Kumar Gupta, Additional Chief Secretary, Finance Department Anurag Rastogi, Additional Chief Secretary, Environment, Forest and Wildlife Department Anand Mohan Sharan, Additional Chief Secretary, Irrigation and Water Resources Department Anurag Agarwal, Additional Principal Secretary to Chief Minister Dr. Saket Kumar, Managing Director, Haryana Mass Rapid Transport Corporation Limited Chander Shekhar Khare, Ann Jeannette Glauber, Rai Mahimapat Ray, Nataliya Kulichenko, Sudip Mozumder, Sharlene J Chichgar, and Kumudni Choudhary were also present.

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*Haryana Government to reward whistleblowers reporting Tax Evaders*


*Rs 2 Crore provision made for Excise and Taxation Department for Reward scheme*


*Public can now report Drug Smugglers via Portal, Chief Minister orders for creation*


*Informer’s Identity will be kept Confidential*

Chandigarh, Nov 29 – In a significant move to tackle tax evasion in Haryana, Chief Minister Sh Nayab Singh Saini said that individuals providing information about tax evasion by any person or firm in the state will be rewarded by the government. The identity and details of those sharing such information will remain confidential. To support this initiative, an initial fund of Rs 2 crore will be allocated to the Excise and Taxation Department.

The Chief Minister made these remarks while chairing a review meeting of the Excise and Taxation Department here today.


In addition, the Chief Minister directed the officers to intensify efforts to combat drug peddling across the state. He instructed that a dedicated portal be developed, enabling people to report drug peddling activities online. Those providing such information will also be rewarded, with their identities kept confidential.


To effectively curb drug smuggling, the Chief Minister emphasized the need for coordinated efforts between the Excise and Taxation Department, the Haryana State Narcotics Control Bureau, and the Police, in order to completely eradicate the issue of drug peddling.


*Strict action to be taken against those involved in counterfeit liquor smuggling*


While issuing directives to take stern action against individuals involved in producing counterfeit liquor and its smuggling, Chief Minister Sh Nayab Singh Saini said that the department should enforce the strictest penalties, including hefty fines, against such anti-social elements. Furthermore, he said that assets acquired by such individuals through illicit means should also be attached.


The Chief Minister further stated that during enforcement actions by the Excise and Taxation Department targeting tax evasion and fake liquor, if any evidence of drug smuggling or related products is discovered, appropriate action should be taken against the accused, in coordination with the police. Apart from this, the provisions for tax evasion of illegal liquor will be further tightened. Also, changes will be made in the Punjab Excise Act, 1914.


Sh Nayab Singh Saini also instructed that liquor vends in rural areas should be located at a sufficient distance from homes, schools, and religious sites, and obtaining approval from the Gram Panchayat should be made mandatory for not establishing such vends. He also asked the department to introduce a one-time settlement scheme to resolve pending tax issues for small traders.


*Haryana ranks fifth in the country for overall GST collection*


During the meeting, it was informed that Haryana ranks fifth in the country for overall GST collection. Moreover, in the category of major states, Haryana holds the top position for per capita GST collection. It was also shared that the Excise and Taxation Department is expected to collect over Rs 63,000 crore in revenue in the budget estimate for the fiscal year 2024-25. In addition, the Chief Minister directed the department to explore new avenues to enhance revenue generation in next fiscal.


It was decided in the meeting that the manpower of the department will be increased so that revenue can be collected more effectively. Apart from this, a training center will also be set up for the training of excise and taxation officers.


Chief Secretary Dr Vivek Joshi, Chief Principal Secretary to the Chief Minister Rajesh Khullar, Additional Chief Secretary Finance Department Anurag Rastogi, Principal Secretary Excise and Taxation Department Devendra Kalyan, Additional Principal Secretary to the Chief Minister Dr. Saket Kumar, Excise and Taxation Commissioner Ashok Meena and other officers were also present in the meeting.

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Haryana Chief Minister Sh Nayab Singh Saini reviewed the progress of the Samadhan Shivirs via video conference

Chandigarh, November 29 – Haryana Chief Minister Sh Nayab Singh Saini reviewed the progress of the Samadhan Shivirs via video conference on Friday. During the review, the Chief Minister instructed that these shivirs be broadcast live, allowing him to directly interact with officials and citizens at any time, from the war room at his residence.

During the session, the Chief Minister engaged directly with citizens attending camps in Fatehabad, Rohtak, Yamunanagar, and Jhajjar, and directed officials to address their concerns without delay. He said that if a citizen's application was rejected due to policy constraints, the rejection details and reasons should be updated on the portal for transparency.

It is noteworthy that the Chief Minister had instructed the organization of Samadhan Shivirs in all districts starting from July. As of now, a total of 88,624 applications have been received, of which 67,240 have been resolved. In these shivirs, officials from all relevant departments, under the guidance of the Deputy Commissioner, gather daily for two hours to listen to the public's concerns and address them promptly.

Following October 8, the Chief Secretary’s Office issued instructions to resume these Shivirs, and the progress of the applications is monitored through the Samadhan portal. The district officials who resolve the applications are later contacted by the Confirmation Cell at the Chief Minister’s residence to assess the status and satisfaction of the applicants. The Chief Minister reviews these reports every week.

So far, the issues primarily addressed in these camps include PPP, Property IDs, sanitation systems, and various other concerns. The Chief Secretary has also directed the continuation of these shivirs in municipal corporations. The Chief Secretary and other senior officers were present at the meeting.

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*Famous Film Actress Meenakshi Seshadri to Perform at International Gita Mahotsav*

*Cultural Program Schedule from 5th to 11th December at the Main Stage Released*

Chandigarh, November 29- Renowned film actress Meenakshi Seshadri will make her debut at the ongoing International Gita Mahotsav-2024 in Kurukshetra, where she will portray the role of Draupadi on the main stage. The actress has also released a video clip announcing her participation in the prestigious festival.A major highlight is that Meenakshi Seshadri and her team will perform the play Draupadi, based on the Mahabharat, on 11th December at the main stage of Brahmasarovar Purushottampura Bagh at 6:30 PM.

An official spokesperson shared that the schedule for the cultural programs, which will take place daily from 5th to 11th December at the Brahmasarovar Purushottampura Bagh, has been finalized. The programs aim to connect visitors and tourists with the teachings of the sacred Gita while also bringing to life key moments from the Mahabharat. As part of the celebrations, renowned actors and actresses from the film industry have been invited to perform.On 5th December, Tanzanian and Haryana artists will present a choreography performance at the main stage. On 7th December, actor Ashutosh Rana and his team will present Hamare Ram, a globally famous play. On 8th December, artists from NZCC will present a cultural program, while on 9th December, renowned artist Manisha will showcase a sand art exhibition based on the Mahabharat, followed by a poetry session with Dr. Kumar Vishwas and other poets.

The performance of Draupadi by Meenakshi Seshadri on 11th December will be one of the key attractions of the festival. The play will be performed at 6:30 PM at the main stage of Purushottampura Bagh.With these cultural events, the International Gita Mahotsav-2024 will bring the teachings of the Gita and memorable moments from the Mahabharat to life, making it an enriching experience for all participants and visitors.

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*Chief Minister gives administrative approval of Rs 477.52 lakh for construction of primary school building in Faridabad*

*Project gets momentum under Jan Samvad Program, year’s old demand realized*

Chandigarh, November 29: Haryana Chief Minister, Sh Nayab Singh Saini has accorded administrative approval of Rs 477.52 lakh for the construction of primary school building at Shramik Vihar, Sector-30 Faridabad. This long-standing demand has been realized through prompt action under the CM Jan Samvad program.

While giving this information, an official spokesperson stated that the need for this project was highlighted during the Chief Minister's Jan Samvad program. Residents of Shramik Vihar had been long demanding the construction of a primary school.

He informed that the estimated cost of the project is Rs 477.52 lakh, which also includes maintenance cost for five years. This project has been given priority to ensure the timely development of educational infrastructure in the local area. Sector-30, Faridabad, which also includes Shramik Vihar Colony, has seen continuous residential and commercial growth, leading to an increased demand for accessible, quality educational facilities. With this approval, the Haryana Government has reaffirmed its commitment to inclusive development and the upliftment of marginalized communities.

He informed that the construction of the school building must be completed within 24 months from the commencement of actual work. The project will include civil work, electrical work, plumbing, fire alarm systems, and horticulture work to enhance the beauty and environment of the school.

It is worth noting that the Resident Welfare Association (Regd.) of Shramik Vihar, Sector-30, Faridabad, had requested the construction of a primary school building in the area. Due to the high population, many underprivileged children are deprived of education, which is adversely impacting their future prospects. The government recognized this need and took prompt action. As part of this effort, funds have been approved today for the construction of the school building.

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*Free Ayush Medical Camp and Exhibition Organized at International Gita Jayanti Mahotsav*

Chandigarh, November 29: A free Ayush medical camp, exhibition, and yoga camp was inaugurated today at Kurukshetra as part of the International Gita Jayanti Mahotsav.

District Ayurveda Officer, Dr. Sudesh Jatian, informed that as per annual tradition, the department has organized an Ayush medical camp and exhibition offering Ayush OPD, homeopathy, yoga, medicinal plants, kitchen therapy, and marma therapy.

He further added that the exhibition set up by the department has been highly appreciated by the public. Additionally, people are being informed about the benefits of Tulsi, herbs, and home remedies. Experienced specialists from the department, including Dr. Mahipal Singh, Dr. Sandeep Gupta, Dr. Menka, and Dr. Shubham (Homeopathy Specialist), are providing treatment and health consultations to people through Ayurveda and homeopathy. Free medicines are also being distributed to patients. Moreover, the camp is providing information about the benefits of Panchakarma and yoga therapy for various diseases and physical and mental ailments.

The District Ayurveda Officer stated that over 200 people have already availed the benefits of Ayush treatment.

===================================*Haryana Development and Panchayat Minister resolves 13 public grievances during District Public Relations and Public Grievances Committee meeting in Hisar*

Chandigarh, November 29- Haryana Development and Panchayat Minister, Sh. Krishan Lal Panwar presided over the monthly meeting of the District Public Relations and Public Grievances Committee in Hisar today. Out of 19 complaints presented during the meeting, 13 were resolved on the spot. For the remaining grievances, the Minister issued necessary directions to the concerned officers for timely resolution. Deputy Commissioner, Sh. Anish Yadav assured full compliance with the directions and stated that the remaining complaints would also be resolved promptly.

A resident of Shikarpur village, Hisar complained regarding irregularities in ration distribution by a depot holder. The minister directed the formation of a committee headed by the SDM to investigate the matter. K.K. Saini from Urban Estate-2, Hisar, raised a complaint about cooperative societies.The minister directed an investigation by a committee under the chairmanship of MLA, Nalwa, Sh. Randhir Panihar, the Additional Deputy Commissioner, and the LDM, with the report to be presented in the next meeting. While resolving a complaint from the villagers of Mughalpura, the Cabinet Minister directed the officers of the Public Health Department to provide adequate clean drinking water within a week to them.

Gyan Chand Goyal from Urban Estate-2, Hisar, reported illegal colony activities. The minister directed the SDM, District Revenue Officer, and District Town Planner, along with a member of the grievance committee, to investigate the matter and submit a report.

Mukesh Kumar from Multani Chowk complained about issues with animal dairy operators. The minister directed officers to take appropriate action as per regulations. A complaint by Mahendra Singh from Azad Nagar regarding changes in plot ownership was assigned to a committee for investigation. Roshan Lal from Sulkhani village raised a problem regarding pipeline levelling. The Public Health Department was directed to address the issue promptly. Ved Prakash complained about irregularities in the mid-day meal scheme. The minister directed an investigation by a committee comprising MLA, Hansi, Sh. Vinod Bhayana, and the Deputy CEO of the District Council, with findings to be presented in the next meeting.

Development and Panchayat Minister, Sh. Panwar also directed officers to ensure their presence in future meetings and present clear plans and solutions for public-related issues. He emphasised the importance of active participation by officers to expedite administrative work and address citizens' grievances promptly.

MLA, Hansi, Sh. Vinod Bhayana, MLA, Nalwa, Sh. Randhir Panihar, Deputy Commissioner, Hisar, Sh. Anish Yadav, Superintendent of Police, Hansi, Sh. Shashank Kumar Sawan, Superintendent of Police, Sh. Hemendra Kumar Meena also remained present during the meeting.

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Haryana Chief Secretary Advocates for Reactivating Inactive Jan Dhan Accounts and Launches Campaign to Encourage Nomination Updates in Bank Accounts

Haryana’s Credit-Deposit Ratio Increases to 87%, Signaling Stronger Financial Inclusion

Banks in Haryana Achieve 133% of Priority Sector Lending Target for September 2024

Chandigarh, November 29 – Haryana Chief Secretary Dr. Vivek Joshi today called on bankers to launch a special campaign to reactivate inactive accounts under the Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana (PMJDY) and to encourage nomination updates in depositor bank accounts.

Presiding over the 170th meeting of the State Level Bankers Committee (SLBC), Dr. Joshi highlighted the critical need to re-engage beneficiaries whose accounts have been inactive for a prolonged period. He emphasized that activating these dormant accounts would enable account holders to fully utilize the benefits of the PMJDY and promote the overall objectives of financial inclusion.

Dr. Joshi also urged the banks to ensure widespread awareness among account holders about the importance of updating nominations in their accounts to secure their deposits and streamline the claims process in unforeseen circumstances.

The Chief Secretary stressed the role of banks in empowering economically weaker sections of society by facilitating access to government welfare schemes and financial services. He called for collaborative efforts to strengthen Haryana’s financial ecosystem and maximize the impact of initiatives aimed at inclusive growth.

He urged bankers to expedite the approval and disbursement of loans under the PM Suraj Kiran Yojana, a scheme aimed at providing free electricity to households by installing solar panels on their roofs. He highlighted that in addition to the central government subsidy, the Haryana government is also providing additional subsidies to consumers. He emphasized that banks should swiftly clear loans under the PM Suraj Kiran Yojana as they have minimal risk in approving these loans.

While responding to the Regional Director of RBI, Mr. Vivek Srivastava, on enhancing the digital ecosystem in Haryana, Chief Secretary Dr. Joshi urged bankers to take proactive measures to raise awareness about the benefits and use of digital payment systems. To promote and increase adoption of digital payments, Dr. Joshi suggested setting up dedicated counters in District Secretariats, Mini Secretariats, and SDM (Sub-Divisional Magistrate) offices across the state, where a large number of people visit daily.

He directed bankers to organize regular meetings in collaboration with district administration, with a particular focus on MSME institutions, to address and resolve the grievances of MSMEs. He also expressed satisfaction with the current CD ratio of 87 percent but urged bankers to set higher targets, in line with states that have achieved even higher CD ratios, to further enhance credit distribution and financial inclusion.

The Chief Secretary urged bankers to expedite loan approvals under the PM Vishwakarma Scheme, which supports artisans and craftspeople practicing traditional skills. The scheme offers recognition through a PM Vishwakarma certificate and ID card, credit support of up to Rs. 1 lakh (first tranche) and Rs. 2 lakh (second tranche) at a concessional 5% interest rate, along with skill upgradation, toolkit incentives, digital transaction incentives, and marketing support. Covering 18 traditional trades, the scheme aims to uplift artisans across rural and urban India.

While commending Haryana's performance across various financial parameters discussed in the SLBC, Mr. Vivek Srivastava highlighted the need for improvement in credit flow to the agriculture and weaker sectors. He encouraged underperforming private sector banks to actively participate in various government schemes, noting that this would greatly support the SLBC's efforts in achieving its targets and goals.

During a review meeting Mr. Kalyan Kumar, Executive Director of Punjab National Bank outlined the road map for achieving financial targets for the fiscal year 2024-25. He said that Haryana’s banking sector has recorded remarkable achievements for the period ending September 2024. The banking sector reported a total deposit base of Rs. 7,72,496 crore and total advances of Rs. 6,72,887 crore as of September 2024. This represents a year-on-year growth of Rs. 82,663 crore (11.98%) in deposits and Rs. 99,626 crore (17.38%) in advances. Additionally, priority sector advances saw an increase of Rs. 30,894 crore (13.27%), reflecting the banking institutions’ strengthened focus on key sectors such as agriculture and MSMEs. The Credit-Deposit (CD) ratio also improved significantly, rising from 83% in September 2023 to 87% in September 2024. Banks have demonstrated impressive performance in achieving priority sector lending (PSL) targets for September 2024. The overall achievement for the month reached a commendable 133%. This is particularly noteworthy in the Agriculture, MSME, and Other Priority Sector segments, which recorded achievements of 96%, 179%, and 43%, respectively.

During the meeting, Chief General Manager of NABARD Haryana, Ms. Nivedita Tiwary, outlined significant opportunities for agricultural and fisheries development in Haryana. She emphasized the need to establish large-scale vegetable production clusters near major consumption centers while promoting Farmer-Producer Organizations (FPOs) in these clusters. The State Government has already initiated cluster development for vegetables, with NABARD supporting the formation of 124 FPOs, including 34 focused on vegetables. These FPOs, she noted, require credit support to scale up their operations. NABARD’s subsidiary, NABSANRAKSHAN, provides collateral guarantees for FPOs to facilitate credit linkage.

She also highlighted the growing potential of shrimp farming in Haryana, particularly in saline soil districts like Hisar, Sirsa, and Rohtak. Despite being a non-traditional fisheries state, Haryana has demonstrated the immense profitability of saline water shrimp farming, with an average harvest of 7 tons per hectare and a farm price of ₹300 per kilogram. She urged bankers to support farmers seeking credit to expand shrimp production and noted that the Government of India’s Fisheries and Aquaculture Infrastructure Development Fund (FIDF) is available for developing infrastructure in the sector until 2026.

Additionally, Ms. Tiwary lauded Haryana's advancements in digital agriculture through the "Mera Fasal Mera Byora" portal, which integrates land, farmer, and crop registries. However, she stressed the need to link the portal with the central Agristack database developed by the Government of India to maximize its potential and impact.

Additional Chief Secretary, Finance, Mr, Anurag Rastogi, Secretary, Finance, Mr. C.G. Rajini Kaanthan, Director, Agriculture, Mr. Rajnarayan Kaushik, Director, Industries & Commerce, Mr. Yash Garg and other senior officers of the state government were also present in the meeting.