*169 missing saroops of Sri Guru Granth Sahib traced; this isn't achievement but our duty: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*
*Publication of saroops is SGPC’s responsibility; they failed in their duty due to Akali Dal: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*
*Women will soon receive ₹1,000 per month: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*
*Punjab Govt will make budgetary provision for women’s monthly assistance scheme in upcoming budget: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*
*We have fulfilled every promise made to people of Punjab: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*
*Massive Maghi gathering reflects people’s trust in pro-people governance of AAP: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*
*Huge turnout at rally proves that people have made up their mind to re-elect Bhagwant Mann as Chief Minister: Manish Sisodia*
SRI MUKTSAR SAHIB, 14th January 2026:On the sacred occasion of Maghi, Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann visited Sri Muktsar Sahib, where he paid obeisance at Gurdwara Sri Tuti Gandi Sahib and addressed a large public gathering, reiterating the Punjab Government’s position on the tracing of 169 missing saroops of Sri Guru Granth Sahib. On a day deeply rooted in Sikh history and sacrifice, the Chief Minister said the tracing of the saroops was a matter of duty rather than achievement.
The Chief Minister also announced that the Punjab government would make budgetary provisions for a ₹1,000 monthly assistance scheme for women in the upcoming budget and maintained that his government has fulfilled every commitment made to the people of Punjab. The AAP leaders said the scale of participation at the Maghi gathering reflected public confidence in the government.
Addressing a mammoth political conference organised to mark Maghi, Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann said that his government has so far fulfilled every promise made to the people of Punjab. “We have honoured every commitment made to the people, and now we will start a scheme to give ₹1,000 to every woman of the state. The required budgetary provision will be ensured in the coming budget. This government is fully committed to the welfare of all, and every promise made to the people of Punjab will be fulfilled by all means,” he said.
Recalling the historical significance of the sacred site, the Chief Minister said that the land had witnessed the supreme sacrifice of Sikh warriors led by Bhai Maha Singh ji and that the entire Sikh Sangat was paying tribute to their martyrdom. “People have converged here from across the state and are fortunate to be part of this gathering. This pious land and the sacrifices made here live in the heart of every Sikh across the world, inspiring them to stand against tyranny, injustice, and oppression,” he said.
Taking a dig at opposition parties, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said that previous governments suffer from weak memory and are merely waiting for their turn to plunder Punjab after elections. “The ‘jhaadu’ (broom), which is the symbol of AAP, has cleaned the political system, and that is why traditional parties are baffled. These leaders are attacking me only because I come from a common family, something they are unable to digest,” he said.
Stressing that people are supreme in a democracy, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said that the masses have made up their mind to teach opportunist leaders a lesson. “The massive turnout at this rally reflects the love and affection people have for the government and its policies. Other parties are also holding rallies, but Sukhbir Badal’s rally must have ended by now because hardly anyone would have gone there,” he remarked.
CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said that even people brought in buses hired by the Akalis had joined the AAP rally. He added that the opposition is groping in the dark to defame the state government and is envious of its pro-people and pro-Punjab stance. “I will leave no stone unturned to safeguard the interests of Punjab and Punjabis at any cost,” he asserted.
Highlighting governance priorities, the Chief Minister said that the role of any government is to give wings to children so they can write new success stories in life. “Every file signed by me is aimed at benefiting the common man and the state. More than 63,000 youths have been provided jobs purely on merit, without corruption or recommendation. Every decision taken by our government is focused on the progress of Punjab and the prosperity of its people,” he said.
On strengthening public services, the Chief Minister said that more than 10,000 new police personnel are being recruited to enhance the efficiency of the Punjab Police. He added that several public libraries have been opened to help students study and excel, uninterrupted power is being provided to all sectors, and 90 percent of households are receiving free electricity.
CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said that even villages at the tail end have received water for the first time, something opposition leaders never prioritised. “Those who do not know the result of 12 multiplied by 5 are daydreaming of coming to power,” he said, adding that people of Delhi are now repenting after electing a wrong government that has stalled pro-people decisions taken during the AAP regime.
He said that previous governments were responsible for brain drain due to flawed policies, but reverse migration has begun since his government assumed office. “The wise, brave, and hardworking people of Punjab are fully aware of the dubious character of leaders who were earlier rejected by them. Today, Punjab is making rapid progress in every field because our government has taken concrete steps for comprehensive development, including historic initiatives in health, education, and power,” he said.
Referring to infrastructure development, the Chief Minister said that work on over 49,000 km of roads is progressing at full pace. Reiterating the women’s assistance scheme, he said that the promise of ₹1,000 per month to every woman will be fulfilled through the coming budget, just as every other promise has been honoured. He added that while Sukhbir claims all development took place during their regime, they deliberately ignored the sacrilege incidents of Bargari and Behbal Kalan.
CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said that exploiting religion for vested political interests has bruised the psyche of the common people and is an unpardonable sin. “They are hand in glove with forces inimical to the Sikh Panth and Punjab,” he said, adding that the SIT probing the case of 328 missing saroops of Sri Guru Granth Sahib has traced 169 saroops from a religious place near Banga, out of which 139 have no official record.
“This is not an achievement but our duty,” CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, adding that publishing of saroops is the responsibility of SGPC and that such institutions failed in their duty due to the Akalis. “These leaders cannot be forgiven for such sins and mischiefs,” he said.
Highlighting economic relief and healthcare initiatives, the Chief Minister said that 19 toll plazas have been closed, saving ₹64 lakh every day for people. He added that 881 Aam Aadmi Clinics have been opened across Punjab, providing free treatment and medicines, and that the Mukh Mantri Sehat Yojna will soon be rolled out to offer cashless treatment of up to ₹10 lakh.
Addressing the gathering, senior AAP leader and Punjab Prabhari Manish Sisodia said that the Punjab Government has taken exemplary steps for the welfare of people. “The massive participation in this rally clearly shows that people have made up their mind to give another chance to the Bhagwant Singh Mann-led government. The work done by this government has received appreciation across the country, and people are eagerly waiting to re-elect the AAP due to its consistent pro-people initiatives,” he said.
On the occasion, Cabinet Ministers Aman Arora, Gurmeet Singh Khudian, Dr Balbir Singh, Dr Baljit Kaur, Harbhajan Singh ETO, Laljit Singh Bhullar, Lal Chand Kataruchakk, Hardeep Singh Mundian, along with MLAs Baljinder Kaur, Amansher Singh Sherry Kalsi, and others were also present
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*Punjab Govt to Launch State-Level Campaign ‘Our Elders, Our Pride’ from Mohali on January 16: Dr. Baljit Kaur*
*‘Our Elders, Our Pride’ campaign to connect senior citizens with health, legal and welfare services: Dr. Baljit Kaur*
*Free health check-ups, legal awareness and assistive devices for senior citizens under Punjab Govt’s new campaign*
*Senior citizens are society’s most valuable treasure, not just beneficiaries: Dr. Baljit Kaur*
CHANDIGARH, 14th January 2026:The Punjab Government, under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, is set to formally launch a state-level campaign titled ‘Our Elders, Our Pride’ on January 16, 2026, from District S.A.S. Nagar (Mohali), with the objective of ensuring the welfare, security and dignified living of senior citizens. Issuing advance information in public interest, the Punjab government said the initiative is aimed at ensuring maximum participation of senior citizens across the state.
Sharing details of the campaign, Punjab’s Minister for Social Security, Women & Child Development, Dr. Baljit Kaur said, “The primary objective of the Our Elders, Our Pride campaign is to connect senior citizens with essential health services, legal awareness and government welfare schemes so that they can lead a secure and dignified life.” She informed that the campaign is being implemented under the State Action Plan for Senior Citizens for the financial year 2025–26, with district-wise camps to be organised across Punjab to strengthen the overall well-being and social security of older persons.
Explaining the services to be provided, the Minister said, “During these camps, the Health Department will provide free general health check-ups, orthopaedic care, ENT services, eye check-ups, as well as homoeopathic and ayurvedic treatments for senior citizens.” She added that the Social Security Department will facilitate on-the-spot enrolment for social security pensions, issuance of Senior Citizen Cards and ALIMCO (Artificial Limbs Manufacturing Corporation of India) cards, and provide assistance and information related to the Rashtriya Vayoshri Yojana.
The Minister further stated, “The State Legal Services Authority will create awareness among senior citizens about the Maintenance and Welfare of Parents and Senior Citizens Act, 2007, along with other legal rights, so that they feel protected and empowered.” She said that with the support of the AYUSH Department and the Department of Youth Affairs, yoga sessions and street plays will also be organised to promote health awareness, strengthen inter-generational bonding and reinforce the spirit of social security.
Highlighting the focus on the special needs of the elderly, Dr. Baljit Kaur said, “Essential assistive devices such as near-vision spectacles, hearing aids, walking aids, cervical collars, belts and wheelchairs will be distributed on the spot during the camps.” She emphasised that the campaign goes beyond service delivery, adding, “This initiative is about making our senior citizens feel that they are not merely beneficiaries, but the most valuable treasure and guiding force of our society.”
Referring to the success of similar efforts in the past, the Minister said, “In previous years, thousands of senior citizens have directly benefited from these camps, which clearly reflects the effectiveness of this initiative.” She also informed that a toll-free helpline number 14567 is operational to assist senior citizens.
Taking into account the prevailing winter conditions, Minister Dr. Baljit Kaur said, “While the campaign will commence on January 16, the next phase of health camps in other districts will be rolled out systematically after January 26, keeping the safety and well-being of senior citizens in mind while ensuring quality service delivery.”
Appealing to senior citizens and their family members, the Cabinet Minister urged, “I appeal to all senior citizens and their families to participate in large numbers in the district-level camps starting January 16 and avail maximum benefit of the free health, legal and welfare services being provided by the Punjab Government.”
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*Cabinet Minister Sanjeev Arora administers oath to newly appointed Member, Punjab State Electricity Regulatory Commission*
Chandigarh 14 January 2026:Cabinet Minister Sanjeev Arora administered today oath of office and secrecy to Ravi Kumar, newly appointed Member of Punjab State Electricity Regulatory Commission at Local Government Bhawan, Sector 35 Chandigarh.
After taking oath of office and secrecy, Ravi Kumar, Member of the Punjab State Electricity Regulatory Commission said that he will perform his duties of office to the best of his ability, knowledge, faithfullness, utmost dedication and honesty.
Viswajeet Khanna, Chairperson Punjab State Electricity Regulatory Commission, Basant Garg IAS Secretary Power, other dignitaries and family members of Ravi Kumar were also present during oath taking ceremony.
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*GMADA offers 42 prime sites worth ₹5,460 crore for online auction; first mega auction of 2026 from Jan 14 to Feb 11: Hardeep Singh Mundian*
*Bhagwant Mann Govt rationalises GMADA property prices to ensure wider access for homebuyers & entrepreneurs: Hardeep Singh Mundian*
*Residential, SCO, mixed land-use, hospital and hotel sites included in GMADA’s 2026 mega auction: Hardeep Singh Mundian*
*Investor-friendly policies driving strong response to GMADA e-auction: Hardeep Singh Mundian*
*GMADA auction to be conducted with complete transparency; details available on puda.enivida.com: Hardeep Singh Mundian*
CHANDIGARH, 14th January 2026:In a significant push to accelerate planned urban development and broaden access to real estate opportunities, Punjab Housing and Urban Development Minister Hardeep Singh Mundian on Wednesday announced that the Greater Mohali Area Development Authority (GMADA) will auction 42 prime sites valued at ₹5,460 crore through an online process, marking the first mega auction of 2026 to be held from January 14 to February 11.
The auction, spanning residential plots, SCOs, mixed land-use sites, and land earmarked for hospitals and hotels, reflects the Bhagwant Mann Government’s strategy of rationalising property prices, enforcing complete transparency, and leveraging investor-friendly policies to ensure wider participation by homebuyers, entrepreneurs, and institutional investors alike.
Addressing a press conference on Wednesday, Housing and Urban Development Minister Hardeep Singh Mundian announced that 42 sites of the Greater Mohali Area Development Authority (GMADA) have been offered for online auction, comprising residential plots, SCOs, mixed land use sites, group housing plots, as well as land earmarked for hospitals and hotels.
The Housing and Urban Development Minister said, “Under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, the Punjab Government is making sustained efforts for balanced and planned development of the state.” He added that investor-friendly policies of the Bhagwant Mann Government have generated strong interest in the real estate sector and infused fresh momentum into urban development activities.
Highlighting the positive response to earlier initiatives, the Housing and Urban Development Minister said that e-auctions conducted from time to time by development authorities under the Housing and Urban Development Department have received encouraging participation. “Carrying this process forward, GMADA has scheduled the first mega auction of the year 2026 from January 14, 2026 to February 11, 2026,” he said.
Minister Hardeep Singh Mundian informed that in line with decisions taken in the previous Cabinet meeting, prices of the properties offered in this auction have been rationalised to ensure that people from all sections of society can conveniently purchase property as per their requirements. “This step will help citizens realise their aspiration of owning a home or starting a business,” he said.
The Minister further stated that the selection of sites has been made keeping in view the needs of every segment of society so that buyers can choose properties aligned with their personal or commercial requirements. He added that the properties are located at prime urban locations and are well connected through multiple modes of transport, including the international airport, railway station, and major road networks.
Emphasising transparency, Minister Hardeep Singh Mundian said, “The entire auction process will be conducted by GMADA with complete transparency.” He informed that details regarding eligibility for bidding, payment schedules, and comprehensive information along with terms and conditions are available on the auction portal puda.enivida.com. “After registration on the portal, bidders can participate in the auction,” he said, adding that for the convenience of bidders, GMADA has also launched a dedicated email ID invest.gmada@punjab.gov.in for all property-related queries.
Expressing confidence in the outcome, the Minister said that like previous successful auctions, this initiative is expected to yield positive results, contribute to the economic growth of the state, and enable GMADA to utilise the revenue generated to raise new benchmarks of development within its jurisdiction.
*Mohali emerges as North India’s fastest-growing investment hub as Invest Mohali 2026 auction opens new opportunities for inclusive, transparent urban development*
Punjab is entering a decisive phase of its economic and urban transformation, focused not merely on accelerating growth but on shaping a development model that is inclusive, resilient, and globally competitive. Under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, the Punjab Government is pursuing sustained and focused efforts towards the all-round development of the state. Investor-friendly policies, transparent governance, and institutional reforms have resulted in visible momentum across multiple sectors, including a strong revival and expansion of the real estate and urban infrastructure sectors.
Over the last decade, Mohali has emerged as Punjab’s primary platform for technology, healthcare, advanced manufacturing, and knowledge-driven services, supported by a strong institutional ecosystem and carefully planned urban infrastructure. The city ranks among India’s fastest-growing urban economies, recording approximately 10 percent Gross District Domestic Product growth between 2012 and 2021. This growth has been driven by a diversified economic base spanning IT, Global Capability Centres, electronics and semiconductors, healthcare, education, and professional services, providing long-term economic resilience and investment security.
Mohali currently employs nearly 50,000 to 60,000 professionals, with IT and GCC employment projected to almost double over the next five years, creating tens of thousands of high-quality jobs for Punjab’s youth. The city has also consolidated its position as a leading education hub in North India, producing over 40,000 graduates annually and hosting more than 27 engineering, medical, and management institutions, including ISB and IISER, ensuring a steady pipeline of skilled talent for industry.
Complementing its economic strengths, Mohali offers a significant cost advantage over Tier-1 cities, with lower office rentals, competitive power tariffs, and reduced living costs, resulting in better employee retention. Ease of doing business has been strengthened through the Unified Single Window System covering more than 23 departments, enabling fast-tracked project approvals within 30 to 45 days. High-quality urban living, planned layouts, green cover, improved air quality, and strong regional connectivity further enhance the city’s attractiveness for residents and investors alike.
Mohali is increasingly emerging as India’s upcoming growth hub and well-being city, supported by major public and private sector investments. Fortis Healthcare is expanding its Mohali facility with an investment exceeding ₹900 crore, adding over 400 hospital beds and strengthening the city’s position as a regional centre for advanced healthcare and medical tourism. In the information technology sector, Infosys is developing a new campus in Mohali’s IT City with an investment of approximately ₹300 crore, expected to generate around 2,500 high-skilled jobs.
In advanced electronics, the Government of India has committed ₹4,500 crore for the modernisation and expansion of the Semi-Conductor Laboratory, alongside the expansion of Continental Device India Limited under the India Semiconductor Mission. These initiatives position Mohali as a national node for semiconductor research, development, and fabrication support. The hospitality sector is also witnessing rapid growth, with Indian Hotels Company Limited developing a 225-key Taj hotel and ITC Hotels investing ₹126 crore in a Welcome Hotel, strengthening Mohali’s capacity for business tourism, conferences, and MICE activities.
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Veterans’ Day: Mohinder Bhagat lauds courage and sacrifice of Defence Services Veterans
*Western Command pays tribute through mega rally*
Chandigarh / Amritsar 14 January 2026:In a solemn yet celebratory tribute to courage, sacrifice and lifelong service to the Nation, Vajra Corps, under the aegis of Western Command, commemorated the 10th Defence Services Veterans’ Day on 14 January 2026 at Khasa, Amritsar. The occasion honoured the indomitable spirit and selfless contributions of Veterans, Gallantry Awardees, Veer Naris, Widows and families of the Defence Forces.
Observed annually on 14 January, Defence Services Veterans’ Day marks the retirement of Field Marshal KM Cariappa, India’s first Indian Commander-in-Chief, and symbolises the enduring bond between the Armed Forces and their extended family.
Lieutenant General Ajay Chandpuria, AVSM, VSM, GOC, Vajra Corps, on behalf of the Army Commander, Western Command, expressed deep gratitude to Veterans and their families for their unparalleled service and sacrifice to the Nation, and reaffirmed the Indian Army’s enduring commitment to honour, support and stand firmly alongside its Veterans and their families, today and always.
Defence services welfare minister Shri Mohinder Bhagat, the Chief Guest on the occasion, lauded the invaluable contribution of Veterans to nation-building, particularly their commendable role during the recent floods in Punjab, and conveyed the State Government’s wholehearted support towards the welfare of Ex-Servicemen.
Conceived as both a tribute and a comprehensive welfare outreach, the programme provided a robust and responsive support framework. Over 40 grievance-redressal counters offered on-the-spot assistance on matters related to SPARSH, Pension, ECHS, CSD, resettlement and welfare entitlements, reinforcing the Army’s steadfast commitment to the dignity and well-being of its extended family.
Comprehensive medical support was extended through specialist OPDs, complemented by focused awareness initiatives on healthcare benefits, welfare schemes and post-retirement employment opportunities.
The rally witnessed the participation of approximately 2,500 Veterans and family members in person, with an additional 4,000–4,500 participants joining through virtual platforms across Western Command, ensuring inclusive outreach and meaningful engagement.
Key highlights included felicitation and interaction with Veterans and Veer Naris, cultural performances celebrating the military ethos, multi-specialty medical check-ups, welfare and grievance-redressal stalls, and a community lunch, fostering camaraderie, shared remembrance and collective pride.
Organised by Vajra Corps, the Nodal Formation, the event ensured seamless coordination, dignified conduct and a befitting tribute to the timeless legacy of India’s Veterans, whose service continues to inspire generations and whose sacrifices remain etched in the Nation’s conscience.
As a continuation of the commemorative engagements, a special interaction and lunch for Veteran Officers of the Tricity will be organised on 18 January 2026 at Chandimandir Military Station, reaffirming the Indian Army’s enduring bond with its Veterans and its steadfast commitment to sustained engagement, respect and welfare beyond ceremonial observances.