Agricultural Machinery Manufacturers, Progressive Farmers and Food Processing Entrepreneurs discuss investment opportunities in Tanzania with CM

Haryana Government takes historic step to support entrepreneurs in entering Global Markets

Entrepreneurs are key drivers of economic growth and development - Chief Minister

Chandigarh, May 13 – A delegation of agricultural machinery manufacturers, progressive farmers and entrepreneurs from the food processing sector in Haryana called on Chief Minister Sh Nayab Singh Saini at his residence ‘Sant Kabir Kutir’. During the meeting, delegation members discussed with the Chief Minister about investment and business opportunities in Tanzania. They also expressed their gratitude to the Chief Minister for the guidance being provided by the Haryana Government and the global business opportunities it has facilitated.

While addressing the delegation in the meeting, which took place late last evening, Chief Minister Sh Nayab Singh Saini said that the state government aims to ensure a strong presence of Haryana entrepreneurs not just within India, but also on the global stage. He said that now is the time to move beyond limiting business to just the state or country. There is a need to go global, seize international opportunities and expand businesses so that Haryana's industrialists can establish a strong presence in foreign markets as well. He further pointed out that East Africa, particularly Tanzania, is emerging as a key market, and the Haryana Government is committed to supporting the industry in this direction.

Officials from the Department of Foreign Cooperation informed that on the initiative of the Haryana Government, a business cooperation visit to Tanzania has been confirmed. Due to the Haryana Government’s persistent efforts, business relations between Tanzania and Haryana have been strengthening, with positive results already visible.

It is worth mentioning that a business delegation of Haryana entrepreneurs from various sectors will visit Tanzania in the month of July. Earlier, with the assistance of the Haryana Government, two business delegations have already visited Tanzania, with several businesses successfully started operations there. For instance, plywood manufacturers in Haryana are sourcing raw materials from Tanzania, resulting in cost reductions for traders.

In the meeting, representatives of delegation expressed their appreciation, stating that this is the first time since Haryana's formation that a state government has taken such proactive steps to support traders in entering the global market. They expressed great enthusiasm and confidence in the efforts being made by the state government under the leadership of Sh Nayab Singh Saini, adding that the Chief Minister is fully supporting Haryana’s traders and entrepreneurs on every front.

While commending the role of entrepreneurs in the economic progress of both the state and the country, the Chief Minister reassured the delegation that they would receive complete support from the Department of Foreign Cooperation and the Chief Minister’s Office during their visit to Tanzania, ensuring that business activities proceed smoothly.

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“Tiranga Yatra – Ek Yatra Deshbhakti Ke Naam" held in Panchkula under Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini's leadership

Thousands of people, including children and women, participate

Chief Minister pays tribute to soldiers, Highlights "Operation Sindoor: Shaurya, Swabhimaan and the Resolve of a New India"

Chandigarh, May 13 – Haryana Chief Minister, Sh Nayab Singh Saini extended his congratulations to the nation on the successful completion of "Operation Sindoor," calling it a symbol of the country's dignity, valor and self-respect. He said that the historic success of “Operation Sindoor” has showcased India’s national resolve, the bravery of its soldiers, and the firm leadership of Prime Minister Sh Narendra Modi on the global stage. He described it as a moment of pride, self-respect, and valor for the entire nation.

The Chief Minister was addressing the people at Yavanika Town Park before the commencement of the "Tiranga Yatra - A Yatra Deshbhakti Ke Naam" in Panchkula today. Led by Nayab Singh Saini, the yatra began at Yavanika Town Park in Sector 5, with patriotic slogans like Bharat Mata Ki Jai and Vande Mataram, and concluded at Major Sandeep Shankla Memorial. Thousands of people, including children and women, participated in the yatra, paying homage to the brave soldiers of the country. The Chief Minister and other Ministers paid floral tributes to the martyrs at the Major Sandeep Shankla Memorial, saluting the valor and courage of the soldiers.

Sh Nayab Singh Saini said that our soldiers have taught a tough lesson to those who threaten the nation. They ensured that the national flag, the Tricolor, which symbolizes the pride and honour of Mother India, never bowed down. He explained that the Tiranga Yatra is not just a celebration of Mother India’s pride, but a tribute to the self-respect and valor of the nation. It is an expression of our national unity, consciousness, and pride. The yatra is dedicated to the warriors who responded to the enemy in their own language and continues to inspire us to embrace patriotism in every moment.

He said that the courage, loyalty and discipline with which our brave soldiers carried out 'Operation Sindoor' under the leadership of Prime Minister Sh Narendra Modi has become not just a military operation but a symbol of India’s national dignity. The clear message from the Prime Minister, “India will go to any extent to protect its citizens,” has resonated across the globe. This reflects the self-confidence of a new India and the identity of a developed nation.

"Operation Sindoor" – A Unique Example of India's Military Strategy and Soldier's Bravery

The Chief Minister that Operation Sindoor stands as a unique example of India's military strategy, showcasing the skillful leadership of the Prime Minister and the bravery of our soldiers. The operation led to the destruction of numerous terrorist bases and sent a clear message to Pakistan: the price of attacking India's sovereignty is extremely high. When it comes to the nation's security, India does not compromise. India changed the definition of war with Operation Sindoor.

He further said that in addition to military actions, India also took strong non-military measures. The Indus Water Treaty was suspended, and all exchanges whether related to artists, visas, or trade were halted. Pakistani citizens were sent back, the Attari border was sealed, terrorist networks were exposed, and Pakistan was isolated from the global community. This was not just a military strike—it was a statement of the new India’s resolve and strength. Our forces did not merely launch missiles; they delivered a message so powerful that it resonated even in the United States and China. This is the new India, the strong India, under the leadership of Prime Minister Sh Narendra Modi.

The Chief Minister also said that the day Operation Sindoor commenced coincided with Sita Navami and Tuesday. On this day, nine terrorist bases were attacked. In Pahalgam, the "sindoor" of sisters and daughters was destroyed, which is why the operation was named “Sindoor.” He further highlighted that the press briefing of this significant operation was conducted by women officers of the Indian Armed Forces Col Sofia Qureshi and Wing Commander Vyomika Singh, both of whom consider sindoor to be a symbol of good fortune.

India is not in favor of war, But as long as peace is seen as weakness, India will not remain silent

Sh Nayab Singh Saini said that after leaving the women alive in Pahalgam, the terrorists had audaciously said, "Go and tell Modi." He remarked that now Prime Minister Modi has responded to them by showing exactly what happens to those who challenge India's identity. He has eliminated the terrorists hiding in Pakistan. He said that when ceasefire discussions took place on international forums, India once again set an example of restraint and peace. He said that this was not merely a military decision but a significant step taken in the interest of humanity. It reflected the maturity, wisdom, and self-confidence of the nation. The Prime Minister has also made it clear to the world that India stands firmly against terrorism and will not tolerate it. This stance proves that India is not in favor of war, but as long as peace is seen as a weakness, India will not remain silent. This combination of bravery and restraint is what makes India a truly great nation.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has guided the vision and resolve of new India

The Chief Minister said that Prime Minister Sh Narendra Modi has guided the vision and determination of this new India. Under his leadership, decisive actions are being taken against terrorism, the military has been strengthened, and India's global standing has risen. The Chief Minister expressed gratitude to the Prime Minister, on behalf of the people of Haryana, for making the country self-reliant and instilling a sense of national pride. The self-confidence of our nation is embodied in our armed forces. While we sleep peacefully, our soldiers sacrifice their rest on the borders. We drop our children off to school each day, while they spend months away from theirs. As we take part in the Tiranga Yatra, they give their lives, holding the tricolor close to their hearts. Their bravery and valor are India's true assets.

The Chief Minister also saluted the families who have dedicated their sons, brothers, and husbands in the service of the nation and extended thanks to the citizens of the country, whose unity and discipline have kept the nation united in this time of crisis.

Tiranga Yatra is a Symbol of Patriotism and Respect for Soldiers – Mohan Lal Kaushik

On this occasion, the State BJP President, Sh Mohan Lal Kaushik said that the fight India has waged against terrorism, along with the bravery and courage displayed in this battle, is being honored today as we salute our courageous soldiers through this yatra. He stated that the Tiranga Yatra serves as a powerful symbol of patriotism and respect for our armed forces.

He further added that the yatra is being undertaken in recognition of the valor and courage demonstrated by the Indian Armed Forces under the leadership of Prime Minister Sh Narendra Modi. During the course of the yatra, we will all march on foot for about 2 kilometers, led by the Chief Minister.

Tiranga Yatra dedicated to brave soldiers - Chief Secretary

Chief Secretary Sh Anurag Rastogi said that the Tiranga Yatra is dedicated to all the brave soldiers who have sacrificed their lives for the country. He said that this yatra is also a tribute to the warriors who continue to fight on the borders, shedding blood and sweat day and night, ensuring that we can sleep peacefully in our homes. Furthermore, it honors the innocent Indians who were brutally killed by terrorists in a cowardly manner. Through this yatra, we aim to send a clear message that our resolve is unshakable and strong, and every citizen of the country is ready to lay down their life for the security of the nation.

Sh Rastogi continued by highlighting the three main points shared by Prime Minister Sh Narendra Modi in his address to the nation. The Prime Minister stated that while this is not the time for war, it is also not a time to tolerate terrorism. He made it clear that trade and talks cannot continue with terrorism, and that blood and water cannot flow together. Going forward, any discussions will focus solely on Pakistan-occupied Kashmir and the terrorism that is thriving there.

On this occasion, Cabinet Minister Krishan Lal Panwar, Mahipal Dhanda, Ranbir Gangwa, Dr. Arvind Sharma Krishan Kumar Bedi, Shyam Singh Rana, Rajya Sabha MP Rekha Sharma, MLA Yogendra Rana, Vinod Bhyana, Pramod Vij, former Vidhan Sabha Speaker Gian Chand Gupta, Director General of Information, Public Relations, Language and Culture Department K. Makarand Pandurang, Media Secretary Praveen Atrey and officers of the district administration were present

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We are not against any person; we are against terrorism – Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini

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Haryana launches major overhaul of Civil Defence System to Boost Disaster Preparedness – Dr. Sumita Misra

Mass Volunteer Registration Drive, Mapping of Infrastructure, UXO Drills with Defence Forces on the Agenda

Chandigarh, May 13 – Additional Chief Secretary, Home Department, Dr. Sumita Misra today announced a comprehensive strengthening of Haryana’s Civil Defence setup to ensure the state is fully prepared to handle any emergency be it natural or man-made with swiftness.

Dr. Misra stated that the government has launched Civil Defence (CD) volunteer registration camps throughout the state at district level and sub division level to begin with. Currently, the drills are being run in 10 districts and will soon be expanded comprehensively to all districts. These volunteers will be provided with standard jackets and uniforms to ensure they are easily identifiable and ready to act in emergency situations.

She further informed that the existing Paper Plan in each districts will be revamped and updated with focus on vulnerability mapping of key public infrastructure such as government building, schools, universities, hospitals, power grids, industries and water systems both in urban and rural areas. “No high-risk areas will left unmapped,” Dr. Misra asserted.

Dr. Misra further informed that all new CD volunteers will undergo mandatory training based on the official national module issued by the Government of India. In order to strengthen local emergency response, a platoon of 30 trained Home Guard volunteers (on paid basis) will be placed on standby at district level.

She further informed that for the first time, livestock evacuation has been made a formal part of disaster drills. CD volunteers experienced in animal care will be involved to ensure full-scale community protection. At the same time, the state is working with defence forces to develop a response plan for unexploded ordnance (UXO).

Dr. Misra reaffirmed that Haryana is committed to building a trained, equipped, and alert Civil Defence force. “Haryana is fully equipped and prepared, as disaster readiness is not just a priority it is the need of the hour,” she added. Community based efforts reduce risk and create opportunities for local development and sustainable livelihoods. By localizing disaster risk reduction, we will also optimize the utilization of indigenous knowledge and conventional best practices.

In addition, under National Disaster Management Authority Scheme of the Revenue and Disaster Management Department, 2300 volunteers have already been trained as ‘Aapda Mitra’ in nine districts namely Ambala, Panchkula, Rewari, Kurukshetra, Faridabad, Nuh, Gurugram, Sonipat, Yamunanagar, with the fundamental skills such as search & rescue, *evacuation*, first aid etc. necessary to address the immediate needs in case of any sensitive situation.

The meeting was attended by Secretary, Home, Smt. Geeta Bharti, Special Secretary, Revenue & Disaster Management Department, Sh. Rahul Hooda, Member Secretary, State Disaster Management Authority, Sh. S. Narayanan, DSP, Home Guard/Civil Defence, Smt. Tanya Singh, Project Officer, Smt. Ritesh and other senior officers were present.

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*Drones usage halted till May 25; public to remain vigil – Dr. Sumita Misra*

Chandigarh, May 13 – Haryana Additional Chief Secretary, Home Department, Dr. Sumita Misra, stated that there is a complete ban on the use of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs)/Drones till May 25, 2025.

In a letter addressed to all Deputy Commissioners, Police Commissioners, and Superintendents of Police across the State, Dr. Sumita Misra underscored that this preventive ban is a critical step to counter potential threats and to safeguard sensitive areas during heightened security scenarios.

Giving more information in this regard, Dr. Misra stated that the prohibition has been imposed across state, except when used by the Indian Armed Forces, Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs), State Police, NDRF, and SDRF.

Dr. Misra has advised all police units and local authorities to intensify surveillance and monitoring of drones within their jurisdictions. If any drone or UAV is spotted or found in transit, it must be reported immediately to the nearest police station or official, and swift, appropriate action should be initiated. Authorities have also been directed to involve Bomb Disposal Squads if there is any suspicion about the drone’s contents or origin, she added.

The public is urged to stay vigilant, and report any suspicious flying object or drone to local police or authorities without delay. Awareness will be created through print and electronic media to ensure cooperation from citizens in maintaining security during this sensitive period.

Dr. Misra further emphasized that any state government department requiring drones for official survey purposes during this ban must seek prior approval from the respective Deputy Commissioner and Superintendent of Police. Apart from this, individuals and private companies engaged in drone-related activities are to be briefed about this order and the associated advisory without exception.

Dr. Misra added that the Unexploded Ordnance (UXO) response protocol in collaboration with defence forces must be followed by the police. Further, mock drills by local administration to ensure effective on-ground coordination in case of any emergent situation would be carried.

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Haryana Intensifies Crackdown On Illegal Abortions, 17 FIRs Filed, 13 Centres Sealed In A Week

ACS-Health and Family Welfare, Sh. Sudhir Rajpal Chairs Weekly Meeting Of STF To Improve Sex Ratio

Chandigarh, May 13 - The weekly meeting of the State Task Force (STF) for Improving Sex Ratio in Haryana was held under the chairmanship of Additional Chief Secretary, Health and Family Welfare, Sh. Sudhir Rajpal here today. The meeting focused on intensifying efforts to curb illegal abortions and further improve the state's sex ratio under the ‘Beti Bachao-Beti Padhao’ campaign launched by Prime Minister Sh. Narendra Modi.

During the meeting, the Additional Chief Secretary emphasized a zero-tolerance approach toward illegal abortion practices and directed officials to enhance monitoring and supervision at all levels. He warned that strict action would be taken against any official found negligent in enforcing the law. He said the doctors found involved in illegal abortion practices will have their cases referred to the Medical Council of India for cancellation of their licences.

The meeting was informed that in the past week (May 6 to 12, 2025), 19 raids had been conducted across the state over the illegal sale of MTP kits and 17 FIRs were registered. In addition, 13 shops had been sealed for illegal practices and 145 MTP kits were seized. Legal action under the Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940 shall be launched against the offenders. Notably, after the formation of the STF, total 43 FIRs have been registered, 21 shops sealed and 6200 MTP kits have been seized in the state.

The departments were directed to follow up vigorously on all registered cases and coordinate closely with police authorities to track and trace the persons involved in the illegal practice and take these cases to their logical conclusion. The Additional Chief Secretary also stressed on intensified inspections at MTP centers to prevent unlawful terminations.

To regulate MTP kit sales, the officials were directed to ensure that no MTP kit is sold without Reproductive and Child Health (RCH) identification number. To ensure better accuracy in birth registration figures, the officials were told to visit slum areas every week and organize birth registration camps to ensure that no newborn is left unregistered in the state.

The meeting was informed that the number of abortions at 12 weeks or more dropped from 425 to 226 within a week, marking a major step forward in the fight against female foeticide.

The meeting was also informed that the Women and Child Development Department has started running mobile vans in various districts of the state, promoting the girl child initiative, along with dedicated campaigns on social media. These multifaceted efforts not only promote gender equality but also empower communities to celebrate and support the girl child.

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

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Haryana Government Amends Contractual Employment Policy to Enhance Service Delivery and Promote Entrepreneurship

Chandigarh, May 13 – The Haryana Government has rolled out a series of amendments to the ‘Deployment of Contractual Persons Policy, 2022,’ signaling a renewed focus on improving service delivery, ensuring timely wage payments, and fostering entrepreneurship among contractual workers. A notification to this effect was issued by Chief Secretary Sh. Anurag Rastogi here today.

The notification states that the revised policy expands its objectives to not only strengthen the delivery of auxiliary and supporting services but also provide quality and skilled manpower to government organizations, private sectors (both in India and abroad), and encourage self-employment through entrepreneurship. This broader vision reflects the government’s commitment to aligning contractual employment with economic growth and skill development initiatives. The amendments cover various aspects of the policy, from payment timelines to training programmes, age criteria, and compassionate deployment.

Timely Payment of Wages

To ensure financial stability for contractual workers, the policy now mandates that indenting organizations make timely payments to HKRNL for deployed manpower. If wages are not disbursed by the 7th of each month, HKRNL reserves the right to withdraw the deployed workforce. Additionally, organizations must comply with GST and Income Tax Act, 1961 provisions for Tax Deducted at Source (TDS) when making payments.

Enhanced Training and Entrepreneurship Opportunities

HKRNL will now arrange suitable training and skilling programs for shortlisted candidates to equip them for their assigned roles. Furthermore, the policy encourages entrepreneurship by linking registered candidates with state and central government-sponsored entrepreneurship programs, fostering self-employment and economic independence.

Age Criteria for Deployment

The revised policy introduces clear age criteria for contractual engagement to ensure consistency and fairness in deployment. The minimum age for eligibility has been set at 18 years, allowing young individuals to enter the workforce. The upper age limit for initial engagement is fixed at 42 years, with applicable relaxations for candidates belonging to reserved categories, as per existing government instructions. Additionally, the policy specifies the maximum age up to which a contractual employee can be retained—60 years for those working in Job Level-I roles, and 58 years for employees in all other job levels. Employment will automatically terminate on the last day of the month in which the individual attains the respective maximum age limit. This framework is intended to balance opportunity with organizational efficiency.

Merit-Based Selection Criteria

The merit-based selection criteria under the revised policy have been streamlined through a well-defined scoring system, with a total of 80 points assigned across key parameters. A major component of the score—up to 40 points—is based on the candidate’s annual family income, with higher scores awarded to those from lower income brackets. Families earning up to ₹1,00,000 annually are eligible for the full 40 points. Age is another determining factor, with candidates aged between 24 and 36 years receiving 10 points, while those aged 36 to 42 years are awarded 5 points. To promote skill enhancement, 5 points are allocated for relevant skill certifications or higher academic qualifications. Additionally, candidates who have cleared the Common Eligibility Test (CET) will receive 10 points. Finally, the policy encourages local employment by giving 10 points to candidates residing in the same or nearby Block or Municipal Corporation where the job is located.

Consent of Candidates

Before recommending any candidate for deployment, HKRNL will obtain the candidate’s consent through SMS or email. If the candidate fails to respond within the stipulated time period, they will face temporary debarment from the merit list. On the first instance of non-response, the candidate will be debarred for one month. A second non-response will result in a three-month debarment, and a third instance will lead to debarment for one year. This mechanism is intended to ensure prompt communication and serious participation by shortlisted candidates in the deployment process.

Reservation Policy

The amended policy aligns the reservation framework with direct recruitment norms, applying both vertical and horizontal reservations at the state level for each job role. If the representation of reserved categories falls below the mandated limit, the backlog will be prioritized in the following year’s indents. In the absence of suitable reserved category candidates, merit-based candidates from other categories may be deployed.

Compassionate Deployment and Financial Assistance

In the unfortunate event of a contractual worker's death during service, their family is entitled to choose between two forms of assistance. The first option is compassionate financial assistance, which involves a one-time payment of ₹3,00,000 to the family. Alternatively, the family can opt for compassionate appointment, which allows for the deployment of a family member to a job role that is equivalent to or lower than the position held by the deceased worker. Additionally, up to 10% of requisitions in a calendar year may be filled on a compassionate basis in urgent situations, provided the request is verified and approved by the Chief Secretary.

Deployment to Private Sector

The policy now allows HKRNL to deploy manpower to private sector organizations in India and abroad, with terms and conditions to be mutually agreed upon between HKRNL and the organizations.

Re-Deployment and Job Role Changes

Candidates who resign voluntarily or whose contracts end due to regular appointments can be considered for re-deployment on a merit basis. However, those terminated for misconduct or poor performance are ineligible for future deployment. Contractual employees in Level-I roles can apply for higher job roles if they meet the eligibility criteria, with their applications evaluated on merit.

Pre-Departure Orientation

HKRNL will provide pre-departure orientation training in soft skills and specific job roles to ensure candidates are well-prepared before joining indenting organizations

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Agricultural Scientists to engage directly with farmers in villages – Shivraj Singh Chauhan

Chandigarh, May 13 – Under the joint initiative of the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare and the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), the Developed Agriculture Sankalp Abhiyan will be held in over 700 districts across the country from May 29 to June 12, 2025. In Yamunanagar district, the campaign will be conducted by the Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Damla. During this period, agricultural scientists will visit villages, directly engaging with farmers to provide information on modern farming techniques and government schemes aimed at improving agriculture.

Union Minister for Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, Sh Shivraj Singh Chauhan, emphasized that this campaign is a significant step toward realizing Prime Minister Sh Narendra Modi's Lab to Land initiative. He stated, "Our vision for a developed India includes developed agriculture and prosperous farmers."

He said that every day, teams of scientists from the center will visit various villages to share valuable information with farmers. Topics will include soil health cards, balanced nutrition management, direct paddy sowing, crop diversification, drone technology, natural farming practices, and ICT-based solutions.

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Krishan Lal Panwar holds review meeting with officials of Mines and Geology Department

One-Time Settlement Scheme will be implemented again: Krishan Lal Panwar

Chandigarh, May 13 - Haryana's Mines and Geology Minister Sh. Krishan Lal Panwar directed the officials to review in detail the activities being done by the department to ensure revenue receipts, progress of mineral exploration, prevention of illegal mining, e-auction and transparency. He directed that the review meeting of the department will be held on the first Tuesday of every month.

Sh. Panwar was chairing a review meeting with the officials of the Mines and Geology Department here today.

He directed that strict action should be taken against illegal mining, adding that equitable and sustainable use of mineral wealth should be ensured. He said to maintain transparency and accountability in departmental work, the officials must ensure maximum use of modern and digital technology.

The minister was informed that only a few people were able to take advantage of the One-Time Settlement Scheme. On this, the minister directed the officials to implement this scheme in a simple manner so that maximum number of people can be benefited and mining work can run smoothly.

During the meeting, Director General of Mines and Geology, Sh. K.M. Pandurang gave a presentation on the activities of the department. He said compliance of court cases and NGT guidelines should be made mandatory. Wherever complaints of illegal mining are received, their information should be immediately brought to the notice of higher officials.

Commissioner and Secretary of the Department, Sh. TL Satyaprakash, and other senior officers were present in the meeting.