India-Africa tops five trading partners - Nayab Singh Saini

Emphasis on technology and innovation to boost agricultural production: Chief Minister

Chandigarh August 29: Haryana Chief Minister Sh Nayab Singh Saini said that Prime Minister Sh Narendra Modi is emphasizing the importance of the Global South and strongly advocating for the interests of developing countries. At a time when the world is turning its attention to the Global South, there is a growing need for cooperation and partnership to achieve collective development.

Chief Minister Sh Nayab Singh Saini was addressing the 20th India-Africa Business Conclave 2025, organized by the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII), at the Taj Palace in New Delhi today.

He emphasized that global challenges can only be addressed through the unity of the Global South. Reflecting this vision, India and Africa are working together to build a future rooted in mutual trust and cooperation, driven by technology and inclusive prosperity. The relationship between India and Africa goes beyond business; it is also deeply connected through shared historical and cultural values.

The Chief Minister said that bilateral trade between India and Africa has increased from US$ 25 billion in 2006 to over US$ 83 billion today, reflecting the deepening economic engagement and expanding opportunities between the two regions. India now ranks among Africa’s top five trading partners. This growing partnership spans multiple dimensions, including trade, investment, technology, value chains, and development cooperation.

Sh Nayab Singh Saini said that India’s partnership with Africa is steadily expanding across key sectors such as energy, healthcare, digital public goods, skill development, agriculture, and education. He added that, in collaboration with the CII, business leaders, policymakers, and industry experts are coming together to exchange ideas and chart a new course for future cooperation.

The Chief Minister said that the conclave is not merely a series of meetings, but a dynamic platform for fostering entrepreneurship-driven partnerships. He highlighted that agriculture plays a vital role in India's economy, serving as a major source of employment. Despite the challenges posed by global warming, India continues to be a global leader in the production of several agricultural commodities.

Sh Nayab Singh Saini said that under the leadership of Prime Minister Sh Narendra Modi, the agriculture sector is experiencing unprecedented growth, leading to greater prosperity for farmers. In the country’s agriculture sector, emphasis is being placed on technology and innovation to boost production, optimize resource management, and improve market access. Our primary goal is to increase agricultural output while making farming a sustainable and profitable venture.

Providing details about the facilities being given to farmers, the Chief Minister said that the ‘Meri Fasal-Mera Byora’ portal has been launched to facilitate access to fertilizers, seeds, loans, and agricultural equipment alongside crop sales. The farmers can sell their produce at the Minimum Support Price (MSP) and receive timely payments through the ‘e-Kharid’ portal. Several initiatives have also been undertaken to promote water conservation and improve groundwater levels. An incentive of Rs 8,000 is being offered to farmers who grow alternative crops instead of paddy, while an incentive of Rs 10,000 per hectare is provided for direct sowing of paddy. Furthermore, an 85 per cent subsidy is available for adopting micro-irrigation practices.

The Chief Minister said that new initiatives have been introduced to increase farmers’ incomes. Organic and natural farming are being promoted to enhance soil health. Encouraging the use of solar energy in agriculture, including the installation of solar pumps, is a significant step towards renewable energy adoption. Additionally, 108 mandis have been linked to the e-NAM platform to connect farmers directly with markets through digital means. The conclave’s key objectives include advancing water conservation and promoting climate-smart farming practices.

The Chief Minister said that financial incentives are being provided to entrepreneurs to establish units under the food processing policy, promoting youth-led entrepreneurship. So far, 9,500 startups have been launched by young people in the state. He added that there is a target to increase women’s participation in startups from 50 per cent to 60 per cent. Addressing all partners on the platform, he emphasized the importance of working together, sharing experiences, and exchanging best practices.

On this occasion, the Chief Minister also visited the exhibition organized by CII.

At the India-Africa Business Conclave, several dignitaries shared their views, including Sh John Michael Yen Sik Yun, Minister of Commerce and Consumer Protection of the Republic of Mauritius; Sh Parks Mpho Tao, Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition of the Republic of South Africa; Sh Quetta Belde, Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development of the Republic of Guinea-Bissau; Dr. Neena Malhotra, Secretary of the Ministry of External Affairs, Government of India; Sh R. K. Mukundan, President-designate of CII; Sh Abhimanyu Saraf, President of Haryana CCI; and other distinguished attendees.

On this occasion, many senior officers including Commissioner and Secretary of Foreign Cooperation Department, Haryana, Smt Amneet P. Kumar were present.

===================================

CM Nayab Singh Saini approves bypass for Hisar City

Chandigarh, August 29: Haryana Chief Minister, Sh. Nayab Singh Saini, has approved the construction of a new bypass for Hisar city with the objective of decongesting traffic and improving road connectivity in the region. The proposed bypass will start from Hisar–Rajgarh Road (NH-52), cross Hisar–Delhi Road (NH-9), and conclude at Hisar–Kaithal Road (NH-52), covering a total length of about 41 kilometers.

The project will be executed by the National Highway Authority of India (NHAI) at an estimated cost of Rs. 1900 crore, which also includes Rs. 1000 crore for land acquisition. With the completion of this bypass, heavy vehicles will be diverted outside the city, thereby reducing congestion, minimizing pollution, and ensuring smooth movement of local traffic within Hisar.

==============================

Haryana’s new sports policy empowering youth to achieve new heights - CM Nayab Singh Saini

Chandigarh, August 29 – Haryana Chief Minister, Sh. Naib Singh Saini said that the new sports policy of the State Government is yielding positive results, with the youth of Haryana achieving remarkable success at national and international levels.

The Chief Minister said this while congratulating Sh. Kapil Baisla, a young shooter from Munirgarhi village in Palwal district, at Haryana Bhawan, New Delhi. On this occasion, he congratulated Kapil Baisla on winning gold and silver medals.

It is noteworthy that Sh. Kapil Baisla exhibit an excellent performance at the 16th Asian Shooting Championship (Junior Men’s Category) held in Shymkent, Kazakhstan. He secured India’s first gold medal in the 10-meter air pistol event with a score of 243.0 points. He also bagged a silver medal in another event.

The Chief Minister said that this achievement is not only a matter of immense pride for Sh. Kapil Baisla and his native village Munirgarhi, but it has also enhanced the prestige of Haryana and the entire nation. He wished him continued success and a bright future.

On this occasion, Kapil Baisla’s coach, Sh. Vikas Dagar, along with his parents and villagers, were also present.

================================

Haryana CM Nayab Singh Saini urges youth to make education the foundation of life

Education is the most powerful tool for positive change and nation-building

CM attends programme in Jodhpur; unveils statues of Shri Bhamashah and Shri Devi Lal Gehlot

Chandigarh, August 29 – Haryana Chief Minister, Sh. Nayab Singh Saini called upon the youth to make education the cornerstone of their lives while upholding the glorious traditions of their ancestors. He said that education is the most powerful medium to bring about positive change in society, as it opens doors to new thinking, builds self-confidence, and ensures progress. Along with education, he urged the youth to adopt moral values so that they can play a meaningful role in nation-building.

The Chief Minister was addressing the 'Pratibhaa Samman Samaroh' organized on the occasion of the 128th foundation day celebrations of Mali Shikshan Sansthan, Jodhpur in Rajasthan on Friday. On this occasion, he felicitated 800 achievers who excelled in academics and other social fields. Earlier, the Chief Minister inaugurated the Sonidevi Gehlot Pavilion and Ground and unveiled the statues of Bhamashah Ji and social worker Sh Devi Lal Gehlot. He said that these statues will continue to inspire future generations to follow their principles, ideals and contributions.

Congratulating the management and teachers of the institution, Sh. Nayab Singh Saini said that social reformers laid the foundation of this institution 128 years ago. It not only stands as a witness to the freedom movement but has also made significant contributions to India’s development after independence. He added that he had come to the programme not just as the Chief Minister, but as a member of society, your brother and son.

The Chief Minister said that the people of Haryana have given the present government a historic opportunity to serve them for the third consecutive time. This mandate, he added, reflects the people’s faith in Haryana’s role in realizing the vision of Prime Minister Sh. Narendra Modi to make India a developed nation by the year 2047. The overwhelming public support has been earned on the strength of nationalism, good governance, the philosophy of Antyodaya, and the principle of Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas.

He said that under the visionary leadership of the Prime Minister, the country is moving rapidly towards becoming a developed India. Be it infrastructure development, increasing farmers’ income, women empowerment, or creating new employment opportunities for the youth, the nation has made remarkable progress in every sector. From the Defense Corridor to the Freight Corridor, and from Bharatmala to Sagarmala, the Central Government is working in mission mode to expand the network of roadways, railways and air connectivity across the country.

He said that Mali Sansthan, Jodhpur has been making a remarkable contribution in the fields of education and social service for the past 128 years. The institution has empowered students of the community by providing facilities such as training, employment opportunities, hostels and free coaching, thereby making them self-reliant. He added that the glorious history of the society is marked by struggle, sacrifice, and service and has given the nation brave warriors, distinguished scholars, eminent artists and outstanding sportspersons.

Recalling the contributions of great personalities like Mahatma Jyotiba Phule, Savitribai Phule, Jagdev Prasad Kushwaha, Major Dhyan Chand, and Nek Chand Saini, he said that they have left an indelible mark in the fields of education, social reform, sports, and art. This legacy demonstrates that when society stands united, cherishes its cultural heritage, and makes education and service its foundation, progress and transformation are definitely possible.

Cabinet Minister of Rajasthan Government Avinash Gehlot, MP Rajendra Gehlot, MLA Bhagwan Ram Saini, Bhagchand Tankda, Shobha Rani Kushwaha, President of Mali Sansthan Jodhpur Prem Singh Parihar, President of Shri Sumer Shikshan Sansthan Narendra Singh Kachhawaha and other dignitaries were also present on this occasion.

=============================================

Meeting held to secure CSR support for TB-Free Haryana Campaign

NHM Mission Director urges stakeholders to support TB-Free Haryana by becoming Nikshay Mitras

Chandigarh August 29 – In a significant step towards the TB-Free India campaign, an important meeting was held today at the State TB Training and Demonstration Centre, Haryana, Panchkula. The meeting aimed to secure corporate social responsibility (CSR) support for providing additional Poshan Kits to TB patients and their families under the Pradhan Mantri TB Mukt Bharat Abhiyan. The state of Haryana is expected to require approximately 60,000 poshan kits for the entire year.

The meeting was chaired by the Mission Director Dr. Rippudaman Singh Dhillion of the National Health Mission (NHM) and co-chaired by Dr. Kuldeep Singh, the Director General of Health Services, Haryana.

Dr. Rajesh Raju, the State TB Officer, gave a brief presentation highlighting the critical role of nutrition for TB patients. WHO Consultant and the State Programme Officer (PMTBMBA) also shared valuable insights on the topic.

The Mission Director, NHM, urged all participants to come forward and adopt as many TB patients as possible, considering it a moral duty. He said that nutritional support accelerates patient recovery. Dr. Kuldeep Singh added that besides nutritional aid, providing psychological support is equally important to help patients stay mentally strong. He stated that the "TB-Free India" goal can only be achieved through robust public participation.

The State TB Officer expressed appreciation for the donors' continued support. During the meeting, "Shubkarman," an NGO from Kurukshetra, agreed to adopt TB patients not only from their district but also from other districts. The Rotary Club offered to supply these donated kits free of cost across Haryana.

At the conclusion of the meeting, Mission Director NHM Dr. Rippudaman Singh Dhillion, made a powerful appeal to all corporations, NGOs, religious organizations, foundations, and individuals to step forward and become Nikshay Mitras. He explained that by becoming a Nikshay Mitra, they can make a direct and significant contribution to the nutritional and treatment support of TB patients.

The primary objective of the meeting was to find potential donors for all TB patients in the state, ensuring every patient receives full nutrition for a successful treatment outcome. This is a collective effort essential for eradicating TB.

This meeting marks another crucial step towards a TB-Free Haryana. With the cooperation and public participation of all, we will soon be successful in making Haryana a TB-free state.

Representatives from HUDCO, Lead Bank (PNB), the Ayush Department, DMER, Industries, FDA, the Nursing Council, and many other organizations were present also some participants joined the meeting via video conference (VC).

====================================================

Haryana’s vision is to hone rural talent and take them to global stage – Gaurav Gautam

Chandigarh, August 29 – Haryana Minister of State for Sports, Sh. Gaurav Gautam said that the vision of the State Government is to identify and nurture rural sporting talent and provide them opportunities to excel at the national and international level. He added that the government is committed to extending every possible support to athletes. Under the leadership of Chief Minister Sh. Nayab Singh Saini, several schemes are being implemented to promote sports and sportspersons. The State Government also aims to increase the number of sports nurseries to 3,000, ensuring that young talent is identified from every village.

Sh. Gaurav Gautam was speaking at a programme organized at the Handball Sports Nursery in Barota, Karnal district, on the occasion of National Sports Day. Arjuna Awardee Sh. Babita Phogat was also present on the occasion. Both paid floral tributes to Hockey legend Major Dhyan Chand and also planted saplings in the school premises.

The Sports Minister said that National Sports Day is observed in memory of the Hockey Wizard Major Dhyan Chand, who brought glory to India on the world stage. He added that today’s sportspersons are also following his footsteps and making the nation proud through their remarkable performances.

Our daughters are flying the flag of haryana across the globe

Sports Minister Sh. Gaurav Gautam said that under the leadership of Chief Minister Sh. Nayab Singh Saini, daughters of Haryana are bringing laurels to the state by excelling at national and international levels. He said, “Khel matlab Haryana, aur Haryana matlab khel”, and the State Government is moving forward with this vision.

He added that various schemes are being implemented to promote and encourage sportspersons, under which cash awards are given and government jobs from Group A to Group D are provided to outstanding players.

=====================================

State government takes a historic step towards women empowerment and social security says Krishan Lal Panwar

CM to launch 'Deen Dayal Laado Laxmi Yojana' on September 25

Chandigarh, August 29 – Haryana Development and Panchayat Minister, Sh. Krishan Lal Panwar, said that under the leadership of Chief Minister, Sh. Nayab Singh Saini, the state government has taken a historic step towards women’s empowerment and social security. He said that the ‘Deen Dayal Laado Laxmi Yojana’ is a strong initiative aimed at strengthening women power in the state. The scheme will not only improve the financial condition of households but will also provide women with an opportunity to become self-reliant and confident.

He said that Prime Minister, Sh. Narendra Modi has identified women’s participation as one of the four pillars of ‘Viksit Bharat’. The Central Government has been introducing new schemes regularly for women’s empowerment, and the Haryana Government too has launched many initiatives to make women stronger and economically prosperous. He expressed gratitude towards the Chief Minister and said that true empowerment of society and the state will only be possible when women are empowered.

The Minister said that the scheme will be launched on September 25, 2025, on the birth anniversary of Pandit Deen Dayal Upadhyay. Under this scheme, women aged between 23 and 60 years will be eligible to receive a financial assistance of Rs. 2,100 per month, directly to their bank accounts. This amount will serve as a foundation for women’s economic security, while also boosting their confidence and ensuring family well-being.

Sh. Panwar said that the Haryana Government is continuously working for the welfare, safety, and self-reliance of women.’Deen Dayal Laado Laxmi Yojana’will prove to be a milestone in the direction of women’s economic independence and social dignity.

=================================================

Cabinet Minister Vipul Goel expresses gratitude to CM for ‘Deendayal Laado Laxmi Yojana’

Eligible women will be able to apply from home through mobile app

Chandigarh, August 29- The Haryana Government has taken an important decision to economically empower women and strengthen their social status by approving the ‘Deendayal Laado Laxmi Yojana’ in the state cabinet. Under this scheme, eligible women of the state will be provided financial assistance of Rs. 2100 per month, which will be launched on September 25, 2025, on the birth anniversary of Pandit Deen Dayal Upadhyaya.

Haryana Urban Local Bodies Minister, Sh.Vipul Goel said that this scheme is a significant step towards women’s upliftment and expressed gratitude to Chief Minister, Sh. Nayab Singh Saini. The main objective of the ‘Deendayal Laado Laxmi Yojana’ is to provide economic independence to women in Haryana, promote gender equality, and improve their standard of living.

Cabinet Minister Vipul Goel said that this scheme will not only provide financial assistance to women but will also make them self-reliant and ensure their active participation in society. It is a part of Haryana Government’s commitment which underlines the important role of women in the four pillars of Prime Minister, Sh. Narendra Modi’s vision of a Viksit Bharat.

He said that a budget provision of Rs. 5000 crore has been made for this scheme in the first phase. Highlighting the main features of the scheme Sh. Vipul Goel said that it will be implemented in a phased manner. Eligible women will receive Rs.2100 every month directly in their bank accounts through Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT). In the first phase, women from families with an annual income of up to Rs.1 lakh will benefit. This will include both married and unmarried women. To avail the benefit, it will be mandatory for the woman or her husband to have at least 15 years of permanent residence in Haryana. The scheme will be available to women aged 23 years and above.

In addition, there is no restriction on the number of eligible women from one family who can avail benefits under this scheme. However, women who are already receiving more than Rs.2100 as pension under any other government scheme will not be eligible.

The Cabinet Minister said that women suffering from Stage-3 or 4 cancer, thalassemia, hemophilia, sickle cell disease, and 54 other listed critical illnesses will be provided additional special benefits under this scheme. Eligible women will be able to apply for the scheme from the comfort of their homes through a mobile app, he added.

Cabinet Minister, Sh. Vipul Goel further said that the Haryana Government has always taken firm steps for women’s welfare. The ‘Deendayal Laado Laxmi Yojana’ will especially benefit poor and needy women who are unable to fulfill their dreams due to financial difficulties. Other income groups in this scheme will be included gradually so that maximum number of women can benefit from it. The ‘Deendayal Laado Laxmi Yojana’ is a symbol of the Haryana Government’s sensitivity and commitment towards women’s empowerment. Cabinet Minister Vipul Goel assured that transparency and inclusiveness will be ensured in the implementation of this scheme.===============================================

Administration alerted over rising water levels in Tangri river to ensure public safety: Energy, Transport and Labour Minister Anil Vij

Over 30,000 Cusecs of water flow in Tangri river, far above normal: Anil Vij

NDRF called to Ambala Cantonment and boats ordered for safety precautions-Vij

Vij inspects colonies along Tangri River amid rising water levels, issues direction to the dministration

Chandigarh August 29- Haryana Transport Minister Sh Anil Vij assessed the rising water levels of the Tangri River in Ambala Cantonment this morning and directed the district administration to make an announcement for the evacuation of residents living within the river’s vulnerable areas to safer locations.

The water level of the Tangri River crossed the danger mark today morning, with an inflow of 30,000 cusecs, posing a significant threat to people residing in the river’s inner areas. Minister Sh Anil Vij conducted an inspection of the affected areas and issued directions to the district administration to take necessary precautionary measures.

Interacting with the media persons on the occasion, Energy Minister Sh Anil Vij said that heavy rainfall in the mountains causes water to flow into the Tangri River. Today, more than 30,000 cusecs of water has entered the river, which is significantly above normal levels. He added that before the rainy season, considerable work was undertaken to deepen the Tangri River, but due to certain obstacles, only 25 percent of the work was completed. The remaining work will resume after the rainy season.

Minister Vij expressed hope that the 30,000 cusecs of water will safely pass through Ambala Cantonment, but emphasized that the administration remains on high alert given the potential risk. He also said that the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) has been called in Ambala Cantonment for security, and boats have been arranged to handle any emergencies.

He said that people living near the Tangri River or within its catchment area are being advised to evacuate with their essential belongings.

It is worth noting that during the previous rainy seasons also, the Tangri River overflowed several times but the water receded safely. This time, thanks to the efforts of Minister Sh Anil Vij, excavation work was carried out on the riverbed, deepening the river and allowing the water to flow out safely.

Directed various departments to accelerate work

Energy Minister Sh Anil Vij, during inspection of the Tangri River area, directed the Irrigation, Police, Municipal Council, and other concerned departments to work in close coordination. He emphasized that residents living near the river should be informed and asked to move to safe locations through public announcements.

Minister Sh Vij also received updates from the Irrigation Department officials regarding the current water level and the expected inflow. He stood on the Tangri River bridge on Jagadhari Road to observe the water flow firsthand. Following this, he issued instructions to the Ambala Cantt SDM as well as Police, Irrigation and other department officials to ensure smooth management and safety.