*CM Bhagwant Singh Mann appears before Sri Akal Takht Sahib as humble Sikh*
*Complete faith in supreme authority of Takht Sahib; I have neither audacity nor stature to challenge it: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*
*Appearing with humility as directed, I presented my position before Jathedar Sahib at Sri Akal Takht Sahib Secretariat: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*
*Being able to place before Takht sentiments of millions connected with Sangat through my words & clarifications has given me deep peace of mind: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*
*Whatever orders comes from Sri Akal Takht Sahib will be accepted with utmost respect & humility: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*
*Investigation into missing saroops is not political, its sole objective is to trace them: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*
*My appearance before Sri Akal Takht Sahib has given me inner peace, contentment and satisfaction: Bhagwant Singh Mann*
*It is our duty to carry sacrifices & teachings of Sikhism to world: Bhagwant Singh Mann*
AMRITSAR, 15th January 2026:Walking barefoot while reciting prayers, Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann on Thursday bowed before Sri Akal Takht Sahib as humble Sikh, devoting the entire day to the supreme temporal seat of the Sikhs. Appearing before the Jathedar Sahib at the Akal Takht Secretariat, the Chief Minister offered a detailed clarification on his earlier statements, reiterating that he stands as a humble Sikh with complete faith in the authority of the Sri Akal Takht Sahib, accepts every decision taken by it, and has no question whatsoever of challenging or undermining its supremacy.
Interacting with the media after his appearance at the Sri Akal Takht Sahib Secretariat, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said he had personally come in compliance with the directions of the Jathedar Sahib. “As per the orders of the Jathedar Sahib, I appeared here as a humble Sikh and submitted my explanation in response to the queries raised. Sri Akal Takht Sahib is the supreme authority for the entire Sikh community, and it is supreme for me as well,” he said, adding that the Jathedar Sahib had recorded his statement and that further action would be taken after consultations with the Singh Sahibans.
Reaffirming his complete respect for every decision of Sri Akal Takht Sahib, the Chief Minister said, “I will abide by every decision of the Jathedar Sahib. My appearance here has given me immense contentment, inner peace and satisfaction.”
He categorically rejected the narrative being created by inimical forces about any alleged tussle between Sri Akal Takht Sahib and the Punjab government, calling it “totally false.” “There is no question of challenging or weakening the authority of Sri Akal Takht Sahib, which is supreme for all the Sikhs. The domain of my government is crystal clear, to work for the progress of Punjab and the prosperity of its people,” he said.
Declaring himself as Punjab’s sewadar, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said he would leave no stone unturned for the well-being of Punjab and Punjabis. “I perform ardas daily for the chardi kala of the state. My head bows before every religious place even at a single glance. It is impossible that any action of mine can be against the state or its people,” he said.
The Chief Minister said that as an advocate of the sentiments of millions of people, he had submitted 25,000 to 30,000 pages of complaints, to the Jathedar Sahib. “These complaints reflect the emotions of people who have flagged various anomalies in the functioning of the SGPC. I have humbly requested the Jathedar Sahib to get these complaints investigated, as the feelings of millions are attached to them. Institutions are always supreme while individuals heading them can err, Such individuals deserve no leniency for their misdeeds,” he added.
The Chief Minister asserted, “Every order of Sri Akal Takht Sahib is acceptable to me. It is the highest temporal body of the Sikhs, and my family and I abide by it fully,” he said, expressing gratitude to the Jathedar Sahib for presenting him with two important books related to the Sikh Rehat Maryada and the Gurdwara Act.
On the constitution of the Special Investigation Team (SIT), CM Bhagwant Singh Mann clarified that it was not a political move. “The SIT has been constituted solely to trace the missing saroops of Sri Guru Granth Sahib ji. Its mandate is strictly confined to tracing them so that they are not misused,” he said. He added that he had also sought the intervention of the Jathedar Sahib to direct the SGPC to provide the unique codes assigned to each saroop published by it, to facilitate tracing of the missing saroops.
CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said the Punjab Police and the state government would trace the saroops and inform Sri Akal Takht Sahib and the SGPC about their location, ensuring further action strictly as per Rehat Maryada. “The police have already been instructed not to enter the premises of religious places where the saroops are traced,” he said, adding that the Jathedar Sahib had informed him that prior to 1998, the printing of Sri Guru Granth Sahib had been carried out at several places.
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*₹31.78 crore released for Scheduled Castes: Dr Baljit Kaur*
*6,231 beneficiaries from 12 districts covered under Ashirwad Scheme*
*₹51,000 financial assistance for marriage under Ashirwad Scheme*
Chandigarh, January 15:Punjab’s Minister for Social Justice, Empowerment and Minorities, Dr Baljit Kaur, said that the Punjab Government has released an amount of ₹31.78 crore under the Ashirwad Scheme during the current financial year 2025–26, benefiting 6,231 Scheduled Caste beneficiaries. This assistance has provided direct financial support to thousands of economically weaker families across the state.
She said that the Punjab Government, under the leadership of Chief Minister S. Bhagwant Singh Mann, is firmly committed to strengthening every section of society economically. The Ashirwad Scheme is a clear reflection of this commitment, playing a significant role in reducing the financial burden on poor families at the time of their daughters’ marriages.
Sharing further details, Dr Baljit Kaur said that during the current financial year, a total of 6,231 applications were received on the Ashirwad portal from the districts of Faridkot, Ferozepur, Sri Fatehgarh Sahib, Fazilka, Gurdaspur, Jalandhar, Kapurthala, Ludhiana, Patiala, SBS Nagar, Sangrur and Tarn Taran. An amount of ₹31.78 crore has been released to cover these beneficiaries.
She informed that financial assistance has been provided to 155 beneficiaries in Faridkot, 242 in Ferozepur, 124 in Sri Fatehgarh Sahib, 1,647 in Fazilka, 226 in Gurdaspur and 70 in Jalandhar under the scheme.
Similarly, beneficiaries from Kapurthala (615), Ludhiana (2,498), Patiala (178), SBS Nagar (152), Sangrur (117) and Tarn Taran (207) have also been extended benefits under the Ashirwad Scheme.
The Cabinet Minister said that under the Ashirwad Scheme, the state government provides financial assistance of ₹51,000 for the marriage of girls belonging to low-income families, so as to provide economic support to their families at the time of marriage.
She further stated that to avail the benefits of the scheme, the applicant must be a permanent resident of Punjab, belong to a Below Poverty Line (BPL) family and have an annual family income from all sources of less than ₹32,790. Under the scheme, two daughters per eligible family are entitled to receive benefits.
Dr Baljit Kaur added that the financial assistance is transferred directly into the beneficiaries’ bank accounts through Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) to ensure transparency and timely disbursement.
She reiterated that the Mann Government is making sustained efforts to ensure that no eligible family is deprived of government welfare schemes, and that Scheduled Castes, backward classes and economically weaker sections are integrated into the mainstream, enabling them to lead a dignified and improved quality of life.
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*Bhagwant Mann Govt takes decisive step to introduce Digital Electronic Ticketing Machines to modernise Punjab’s bus services*
*Punjab moves towards cashless, technology-enabled public transport with digital ticketing rollout*
*Smart ticketing to enhance transparency, efficiency and passenger convenience in Punjab buses: Laljit Singh Bhullar*
*Free travel for women to continue as Punjab upgrades bus services with digital infrastructure: Laljit Bhullar*
CHANDIGARH, 15th January 2026:Continuing its decisive push towards modern, citizen-first governance, the Bhagwant Singh Mann-led Punjab Government has taken another major step to transform public transport by approving the procurement of Digital Electronic Ticketing Machines across state-run bus services. The initiative reflects the government’s clear focus on leveraging technology to make everyday public services more efficient, transparent and convenient for citizens.
The introduction of Digital Electronic Ticketing Machines marks a significant upgrade in the way passengers access bus services in Punjab. With this reform, commuters will be able to purchase tickets using multiple digital payment options, including QR code-based payments, UPI and card-enabled transactions, along with offline modes. The system has been designed to minimise waiting time, reduce dependence on cash and ensure a smoother travel experience for passengers across urban and rural routes alike.
A key feature of the new ticketing system is its focus on passenger convenience and journey planning. The machines will be GPS-enabled, allowing live tracking of buses, visibility of nearby bus stops and real-time information on available services along various routes. The facility to check seat availability and manage journeys more efficiently will further enhance the reliability of state-run bus services.
Importantly, the Bhagwant Mann Government has ensured that its flagship welfare commitments remain fully protected under the new system. Free bus travel for women will continue without interruption, in line with the government’s policy. Women passengers will be issued smart cards to avail free travel seamlessly, reinforcing the government’s emphasis on dignity, safety and ease of mobility for women. Students will also be provided smart cards, which can be recharged online through a mobile application, making daily travel more accessible and affordable for young people.
The smart card ecosystem introduced under this initiative will allow citizens and tourists to travel on Punjab Government-run buses with ease. Smart cards can be recharged digitally through a mobile app, reflecting the government’s effort to integrate public transport with modern digital infrastructure and provide a hassle-free experience to commuters.
Transport Minister Mr. Laljit Singh Bhullar said, “From an administrative and governance perspective, the Digital Electronic Ticketing Machines will significantly strengthen the functioning of the Transport Department. Real-time monitoring of ticket sales and bus movement will enhance revenue transparency, reduce manual intervention and improve accountability. The availability of accurate digital data will support better planning, informed decision-making and more efficient deployment of buses, enabling expansion of services through the addition of vehicles to the existing fleet.”
The Transport Minister said, “By placing technology at the service of citizens, the Bhagwant Mann Government is reinforcing its broader vision of responsive, transparent and effective governance. The move towards smart ticketing infrastructure underlines the government’s commitment to delivering safe, efficient and technology-enabled mobility, while ensuring that public transport in Punjab remains inclusive, welfare-oriented and firmly centred on the needs of the people.”
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*PUNJAB CABINET MINISTER BARINDER KUMAR GOYAL EXPRESSES GRATITUDE TO AAP NATIONAL CONVENER ARVIND KEJRIWAL FOR MEDICAL COLLEGE AT LEHRAGAGA*
*PRO-PEOPLE DECISIONS TO BOOST HEALTHCARE IN MALWA REGION AND SECURE EMPLOYEES’ FUTURE OF BABA HIRA SINGH BHATTAL INSTITUTE: BARINDER KUMAR GOYAL*
*Chandigarh, January 15:*Punjab Cabinet Minister Sh. Barinder Kumar Goyal on Thursday met Aam Aadmi Party National Convener Sh. Arvind Kejriwal and expressed gratitude for the decision to establish the Medical College at Lehragaga and for resolving the employees’ case on priority.
Notably, the Punjab Cabinet under the leadership of Chief Minister S. Bhagwant Singh Mann recently accorded approvals for these pro-people and pro-employees decisions.
During the meeting, Sh. Barinder Kumar Goyal said, “The decision to set up a Medical College at Lehragaga is a people-centric step that will bring quality healthcare closer to the doorsteps of common citizens and reduce their dependence on distant cities for advanced medical treatment.”
The Cabinet Minister said the proposed Medical College with a capacity of 440 beds and 100 MBBS seats will strengthen the public health system in the Malwa region and create opportunities for youth aspiring to pursue medical education.
Highlighting the employees’ welfare decision, Sh. Barinder Kumar Goyal said, “The Cabinet’s approval to adjust the staff of Baba Hira Singh Bhattal Institute in government departments is a clear message that this government stands firmly with its employees and has ensured their job security through timely intervention.”
He assured that Chief Minister S. Bhagwant Singh Mann-led Punjab Government remains committed to strengthening public healthcare and protecting the interests of employees. He said establishment of the Medical College at Lehragaga will benefit lakhs of people in the region and the resolution of the employees’ issue shows the government’s priority to deliver justice and relief without delay.
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Siswan-Mirzapur forest area becomes hub of eco-tourism due to initiative of Mohali Forest Division: Forest & Wildlife Preservation Minister Lal Chand Kataruchak
Nature trail equipped with natural scenery and facilities
Employment avenues being generated through Skill training to Self Help Groups of Forest Dependent Villages
Chandigarh, January 15:The initiatives being taken by the Mohali Forest Division for environmental protection and promotion of eco-tourism in the Siswan-Mirzapur forest area are receiving enthusiastic support from the people.
Revealing this, the Forest & Wildlife Preservation Minister Lal Chand Kataruchak said that Siswan to Mirzapur Nature Trek, which is about 5 km long and takes about 1.5 hours to complete, has become very popular among the people due to natural beauty, lush green forest scenery, beautiful viewpoints and watch towers.
Boating facility, well-equipped canteen services and three eco-huts at Siswan Dam are providing a wonderful experience to the tourists. All these facilities are very popular among the people.
Apart from this, more nature trails and trekking routes are being prepared by the division, which will be opened for the public soon.
On 25th December, a successful Nature Awareness Camp was organized at Siswan Dam in which first a cycling event and then a trekking program were conducted. It was attended by a large number of people from Chandigarh. Along with this, regular educational visits of school children are also being made to Siswan Nature Awareness Camp to inculcate the spirit of environmental conservation among the new generation.
Mohali Forest Division is continuously promoting conservation of nature, responsible eco-tourism, environmental education and community participation.
Apart from this, efforts are also being made to make the people of the villages dependent on forestry, skilled. Under community development, self-help groups of Siswan, Gochar and Nada villages are being given skill training like pickle making, beauty parlour, cloth bag making, tailoring etc., so that new employment opportunities can be created in the villages. In a community service initiative, the Forest Committee of Siswan village recently distributed utensils.
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*PUNJAB CHANGES SCHOOL HOURS FOR STUDENTS SAFETY*
*• Now, schools to open at 10am*
Chandigarh, January 15:
In a response to the ongoing severe cold wave and dense fog conditions, the Punjab Government has changed the timings of schools in the state. Now, Primary schools will operate from 10AM to 3PM, while Middle, High and Senior Secondary schools will function from 10AM to 3:20PM. The new timing will remain in effect until January 21, 2026, informed S. Harjot Singh Bains, Education Minister, Punjab.
"The well-being and safety of our students is our highest priority,” S. Bains said, while directing school heads and District Education Officers (DEOs) to ensure the revised school timings in all the government, aided, affiliated and private schools across the state.
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*Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) refusal to clear UK visit without giving reasons is unfortunate & condemnable: Sanjeev Arora*
*MEA did not provide any proper or clear reason for the visit abroad: Sanjeev Arora*
*Successful Japan & South Korea visits brought major investor interest, MEA blocking outreach will hurt Punjab: Sanjeev Arora*
*Through global outreach, we are ensuring that Punjab’s youth get employment opportunities; We urge GOI to reconsider rejection: Sanjeev Arora*
*MEA’s decision will certainly prove detrimental to Punjab’s economic growth, but we will not be deterred & will continue working relentlessly for Punjab’s progress: Sanjeev Arora*
CHANDIGARH, 15th January 2026:Calling the refusal to clear an official investment outreach visit to the United Kingdom without assigning any reason “unfortunate and condemnable,” Punjab’s Industry & Commerce and Investment Promotion Minister Minister Sanjeev Arora said the Union Government’s decision had dealt a needless blow to Punjab’s efforts to attract global investment and generate jobs for its youth. The Punjab Minister said the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) failed to offer any proper or clear explanation for blocking the visit abroad, even as earlier engagements in Japan and South Korea had yielded strong investor interest for the state.
Emphasising that global outreach is central to creating employment opportunities and driving economic growth, Sanjeev Arora urged the Government of India to immediately reconsider its decision, asserting that while the move would harm Punjab’s economic prospects, the state government would not be deterred from working relentlessly for Punjab’s progress.
In a statement, Minister Sanjeev Arora said that the MEA of the Government of India (GOI) did not provide any proper or clear reason for rejecting the proposed official visit to the United Kingdom and Israel. “Firstly, we would like to know the exact reason for this rejection. If the decision has been taken for political reasons, then it is extremely condemnable and unfortunate,” he said.
Elaborating further, the Punjab Industry & Commerce and Investment Promotion Minister said that earlier official visits to Japan and South Korea were highly successful and generated significant investor interest in Punjab. “These investments are not only creating employment opportunities for the youth, but are also contributing to the overall economic growth of the country. The MEA’s decision will certainly prove detrimental to Punjab’s economic growth, but we will not be deterred and will continue working relentlessly for the progress of the state,” he said.
The Minister said that several foreign and Indian companies are keen to invest in Punjab and the state is fast emerging as their preferred destination. He said the Punjab Government is leaving no stone unturned to promote industry in the state. “Through global outreach, we are ensuring that Punjab’s youth get employment opportunities, paving the way for lasting economic prosperity. We urge the Government of India to reconsider the rejection of approval for our visit abroad,” he added.
Highlighting Punjab’s achievements, Minister Sanjeev Arora said the state has been awarded by the Government of India for being among the best states for ease of doing business and is also set to receive recognition for excellence in start-up initiatives. “Since 2022, Punjab has attracted investments worth more than ₹1.5 lakh crore and created employment opportunities for over 5.2 lakh people,” he said.
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*Vigilance Bureau nabs contractual employee red handed accepting bribe of Rs 4000/-*
Chandigarh January 15, 2026:The Punjab Vigilance Bureau (VB) during its ongoing drive against corruption in the state, has apprehended contractual employee Parvesh posted in the office of the Director, Land Records Department, Punjab red handed while accepting bribe of Rs. 4000/- in lieu of providing land records to the complainant.
Disclosing this here today, an official spokesperson of the state VB said the above-mentioned accused has been arrested based on a complaint lodged by a resident of village Chhokra tehsil Dasuya, district SBS Nagar.
He said that the complainant stated that his wife had filed a Civil Suit in the Court at Dasuya seeking her lawful share of 12 acres of ancestral land. In this regard, certified copies of Jamabandi, land allotment and deposit records were required to establish ownership of the land.
He further said that the complainant applied to the office of the Director. Land Records,Punjab situated at Jalandhar for getting records of his land. Despite repeated visits, the requisite records were not supplied. During this process, accused Parvesh met the complainant and claimed that he would arrange the required records as well as their translation from Urdu to Punjabi. He allegedly demanded Rs. 10,000/- for providing the records and Rs. 12,000/- for translation work, totaling Rs. 22,000/-.
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The complainant stated that an amount of Rs. 18,000/- has already been paid to accused Parvesh on different dates through Google Pay and cash, under compulsion. Thereafter, Parvesh further demanded Rs. 4,000/-, he added.
The spokesperson added that after a preliminary enquiry on his complaint, the VB team laid a trap during which the accused was arrested red handed while accepting bribe money of Rs 4000/- from the complainant in presence of two official witnesses.
In this regard, a case under prevention of corruption act has been registered against the accused at VB police station Jalandhar and further investigation into this case is under progress.
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