Modern Panchayat Ghars & Common Service Centres to Transform Rural Punjab: Sond
- 500 modern Panchayat Ghars and Common Service Centres to be built at a cost of Rs 125 crore
- Rural common service centres to become the hub of digital revolution: Panchayat Minister
Chandigarh, August 25:Punjab’s Rural Development and Panchayat Minister, Tarunpreet Singh Sond, said that modern Panchayat Ghars and Common Service Centres will script a new chapter in the development of villages. He informed that in the first phase, 500 Panchayat Ghars and Common Service Centres are being constructed across the state at a cost of Rs 125 crore. It may be recalled that a few days ago, Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann launched this project from the holy land of Fatehgarh Sahib.
Sond stated that every village with a population of more than 2,800 will have one Panchayat Ghar and one Common Service Centre. The cost of constructing a Panchayat Ghar will be Rs 20 lakh while a Common Service Centre will be built at Rs 5 lakh. He added that villages without Panchayat Ghars have been prioritized under this project. Expressing concern, he noted that although Panchayats are the strongest foundation of democracy, many lacked even basic infrastructure for meetings. The new Panchayat Ghars and service centres will address this gap.
The Minister said that these facilities will provide multiple services to villagers. A Panchayat Ghar will not merely be an office but will serve as an important hub for deliberations and decision-making for rural development. He emphasized that Common Service Centres will act as the backbone of the digital revolution in villages, enabling people to access online services easily.
Highlighting the importance of digital infrastructure, Sond said that in today’s era, services such as registration for government schemes, admissions to educational institutions, Aadhaar card, passport, and many others are available online. Hence, these Common Service Centres will play a vital role in facilitating these services for rural citizens. He also expressed hope that this initiative will provide Panchayats with an appropriate platform to come together and make collective decisions for the betterment of their villages.
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PUNJAB’S PRIDE: LUDHIANA TEACHER NARINDER SINGH SELECTED FOR NATIONAL TEACHERS’ AWARD
•Harjot Bains congratulates Narinder Singh & wishes him continued success for future endeavours
CHANDIGARH, August 25:In a proud moment for the state of Punjab, Narinder Singh, a teacher serving at Government Primary School, Jandiali in Ludhiana district, has been selected for the prestigious National Teachers' Award 2025, a testament to his outstanding commitment to quality education.
Expressing delight over the National recognition, Punjab School Education Minister S. Harjot Singh Bains extended his warmest congratulations to Narinder Singh on being nominated for the coveted National Teachers' Award 2025. He also wished Narinder Singh continued success in his future endeavours. S. Bains noted that Narinder's achievement serves as a shining example for fellow educators to follow and make a meaningful impact on the lives of their students. He also lauded his exceptional teaching skills, innovative approaches and tireless dedication to instilling a love for learning in students. This national recognition showcases the transformative power of quality education in shaping young minds.
Notably, the National Teachers' Award ceremony is scheduled to take place at Vigyan Bhawan in New Delhi on September 5, 2025. Narinder Singh will be honoured with a certificate of merit, a cash award of Rs. 50,000, and a silver medal, recognising his exceptional dedication and outstanding contributions to education.
Expressing his heartfelt gratitude and joy over being selected for the national award, the teacher Narinder Singh, who has been serving in the School Education department since January 2002, stated, "I am deeply humbled to receive this national recognition. I attribute this achievement to the unwavering support of my students, colleagues and the education department. I will continue to strive for excellence and make a positive impact on the lives of my students."
He highlighted the significant role of the village panchayat and state government in transforming Jandiali school, noting that their collaborative efforts have resulted in the establishment of 15 smart classrooms, three libraries (including a mobile library), and three specialized parks - Sundar Likhai Park, Math Park, and IT Park.
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PAK-ISI BACKED BKI’S TERROR PLOT FOILED; FOUR HAND-GRENADES, 2KG RDX-BASED IED RECOVERED FROM BATALA
— PROBE REVEALS THAT THE CONSIGNMENT WAS PLACED ON THE DIRECTIONS OF UK-BASED BKI TERRORIST NISHAN JODIA: DGP GAURAV YADAV
— ONE ACCUSED HAS BEEN ARRESTED, WHILE ANOTHER IS ABSCONDING; EFFORTS ARE UNDERWAY TO APPREHEND HIM: DGP PUNJAB
— EFFORTS ON TO ENSURE NISHAN JODIA IS APPREHENDED AND DEPORTED BACK TO INDIA TO FACE THE LAW: SSP SUHAIL QASIM MIR
CHANDIGARH/BATALA, August 25:In a major breakthrough amidst the ongoing drive to make Punjab a safe and secure state as per directions of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, Batala Police has busted a Pak-ISI backed terror module with the recovery of four SPL HGR-84 hand grenades (also known as Arges HG-84) and one RDX-based improvised explosive device (IED)— weighing nearly 2kg packed in a black metallic box— concealed in bushes near the road leading towards Amritsar, said Director General of Police (DGP) Punjab Gaurav Yadav here on Monday.
In addition, Police teams have also recovered a Baofeng dual-band FM transceiver set, a D-shaped headset commonly used with walkie-talkies, and other accessories.
DGP Gaurav Yadav said that preliminary investigation has revealed that the consignment was placed on the directions of UK-based Babbar Khalsa International (BKI) terrorist Nishan Singh alias Nishan Jodia, acting under the instructions of Pak-based terrorist Harvinder Singh Rinda, backed by Pakistan’s ISI.
The DGP said that one accused, identified as Ravinder Pal Singh alias Ravi of village Puriya Kala village, has been arrested. Another accused has been identified and police teams are on manhunt to apprehend him, he said, while adding that investigation is ongoing to expose the entire cross-border conspiracy.
Sharing more details, Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Batala Suhail Qasim Mir said that further investigation has revealed that the accused collected the consignment in a dead letterbox fashion, following instructions gangster-terrorist Nishan Singh alias Nishan Jodia, who orchestrated the placement and collection of the explosives. The recovery of this cache has has disrupted a cross-border conspiracy aimed at destabilising peace and harmony in Punjab, he said.
The SSP said that efforts are also underway to ensure Nishan Jodia is apprehended and deported back to India to face the law. In this regard, Punjab Police has initiated correspondence with the Ministry of External Affairs and the Consulate General of India in Birmingham, and the process to secure his deportation is actively underway, he added.
In this regard, a case FIR No. 129 dated 21.08.2025 was registered under Sections 3 and 4 of the Explosive Substances Act at Police Station Sadar Batala. As the investigation progressed and the involvement of terrorist networks became evident, relevant sections of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) have also been added to the case.
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Punjab State Information Commission issues bailable warrant against Tehsildar
Chandigarh, August 25:The Punjab State Information Commission has issued a bailable warrant against the Public Information Officer-cum-Tehsildar, Kharar, while hearing a case.
Providing details in this regard, a spokesperson of the Commission said that during the hearing of Appeal Case No. 6586 of 2023, filed by Bhagat Singh, son of Kartar Singh, resident of Kansala, Kharar, District Sahibzada Ajit Singh Nagar, the orders issued by State Information Commissioner Mr. Harpreet Singh Sandhu regarding the appearance of the Public Information Officer-cum-Tehsildar, Kharar, Smt. Gurvinder Kaur, were not complied with despite repeated directions.
In view of this, the State Information Commissioner Harpreet Singh Sandhu has directed the Senior Superintendent of Police, Sahibzada Ajit Singh Nagar, Mr. Harmandeep Singh Hans, to execute the bailable warrant against Smt. Gurvinder Kaur and ensure her presence before the Punjab State Information Commission, Chandigarh, on September 23, 2025, at 11:30 am.
A copy of the order has also been sent to the Deputy Commissioner, Mohali, for necessary action and information.
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The 26th meeting of the Punjab State Scheduled Castes Commission schedule on August 28
Chandigarh, August 25:The 26th meeting of the Punjab State Scheduled Castes Commission will be scheduled on August 28, 2025, under the chairmanship of Sardar Jasvir Singh Garhi, Chairman, Punjab State Scheduled Castes Commission, at the Committee Room, Punjab Bhawan, Sector-3, Chandigarh.
Giving information about this meeting, the spokesperson of the Commission said that this meeting of the Commission is going to be held after five years and the previous meeting was held in the year 2019.
The spokesperson said that letters have been issued to the non-official members of the Commission to attend this meeting, besides, Director General of Police, Punjab, Director Local Government Department, Punjab and Director Social Justice and Empowerment Department.
The spokesperson said that during this meeting, the action taken regarding the disposal of cases related to the Punjab State Scheduled Castes will also be evaluated.
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DR BALBIR SINGH LAUNCHES ‘ONE STOP INTEGRATED PROGRAM FOR WOMEN WHO USE DRUGS’ FOR KAPURTHALA AND AMRITSAR
— PROGRAM WILL BE EXPANDED IN ALL THE DISTRICTS UPON SUCCESS OF THE PILOT PHASE: HEALTH MINISTER
— PROGRAM IS A JOINT COLLABORATION BETWEEN HEALTH DEPARTMENT AND PUNJAB POLICE
CHANDIGARH, August 25:In a landmark move to address the unique challenges faced by women with substance use disorder amidst the ongoing anti-drug campaign ‘Yudh Nashian Virudh’, Health and Family Welfare Minister Dr Balbir Singh on Monday launched ‘One Stop Integrated Program for Women who use Drugs’ for districts Kapurthala and Amritsar as part of first phase. Notably, this program is a joint collaboration between the Health Department Punjab and the Community Affairs Division of the Punjab Police.
Detailing about the initiative Dr Balbir Singh said that this program, which will be known as the “Punjab Model for Women Drug Users”, aims to provide a comprehensive and compassionate health response across the state. “This program recognises that women face distinct issues from men, including different patterns of drug use, higher rates of mortality from overdose, and a higher likelihood of relapse after treatment,” he added.
Speaking about the successful pilot project in Kapurthala, Dr Balbir Singh informed that 241 women drug user were registered and were provided with a wide range of health services. This integrated package included medical, surgical, and gynaecological check-ups, care for pregnant women and newborns, and harm reduction services. Additionally, it provided testing and treatment for HIV and Hepatitis B and C, tuberculosis care, STI treatment, and counselling. The program had successfully linked 81 women to treatment at OOAT clinics and were provided social support by connecting 80 women with social security schemes. Notably, out of four pregnant women registered, three have given birth to healthy babies.
Emphasising the government's commitment to compassionate rehabilitation, Dr Balbir Singh said, “Addiction is a disease, not a crime. We must approach victims with empathy and equip them with skills for dignified reintegration.” He also highlighted the vital role women can play in supporting family members affected by drug abuse and helping them access rehabilitation services.
Talking about the implementation of this program, Dr Balbir Singh said that the success of the Kapurthala model will serve as a training and learning centre for the state. In the first phase of its statewide implementation, the program will be extended on a pilot basis to the districts of Kapurthala and Amritsar, he said, while adding that in the next phase the program will be rolled out in all the districts upon success of the pilot phase.
Welcoming the initiative of this partnership between the Health and Punjab Police, Special Director General of Police (Special DGP) Community Affairs Division Gurpreet Kaur Deo said that women, who use drugs, face stigma and societal disapproval on account of which they are reluctant to come forward for accessing treatment options . In addition, treatment services for women are almost non existent . This initiative is an effort to bridge the gap of lack of health services in the state for women drug users ,she said.
She informed that Community Affairs Division of the Punjab Police will be funding the pilot projects in the districts of Amritsar and Kapurthala, as a community Policing initiative.
This reflects the government's unwavering commitment to not only break the supply-demand cycle of drugs but also to ensure a healthier future for all its citizens.
On this occasion, Principal Secretary Health Kumar Rahul, Director Health and Family Welfare Dr Hitinder Kaur, Deputy Director Dr Rohini Goyal and Nodal Officer Mental Health Dr Sandeep Bhola were also present.
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ILLUMINATE LIVES: DR BALBIR SINGH LEADS CHARGE TO CURE BLINDNESS WITH EYE DONATION DRIVE
Health Minister launches 40th National Eye Donation Fortnight
CHANDIGARH, AUGUST 25:With an aim to spread awareness about the importance of eye donation and bridge the critical shortage of corneas for transplantation, Punjab Health and Family Welfare Minister, Dr. Balbir Singh today launched the 40th National Eye Donation Fortnight, observed from August 25 to September 8, 2025.
While urging citizens to come forward to pledge their eyes, the Heath Minister cited that approximately 1.1 million people in India suffer from corneal blindness. Each year, around 25,000 new cases are added, further straining the already limited resources. The country requires over 100,000 corneal transplants annually, but only about 25,000 to 40,000 transplants are performed. He said that one donation can give sight to two corneal blind individuals, ultimately working towards a corneal blindness-free nation. The initiative aims to educate the masses through intensified Information, Education, and Communication activities across the state.
Dr. Balbir Singh eloquently framed eye donation as a profound legacy, highlighting its transformative impact. "Eye donation is a miracle of modern medicine where a single decision can liberate two individuals from darkness," he said while emphasising that this selfless act enables someone to experience the world in a meaningful way, even after the donor is gone. By giving the gift of sight, donors allow recipients to reconnect with loved ones, enjoy simple pleasures and experience life's beauty.
"We have skilled surgeons, the technology, and the infrastructure, what we lack are the donors. This fortnight is our dedicated mission to fill that gap," Dr. Balbir Singh stated, while noting that Punjab is well-equipped with 10 registered eye banks and 21 transplant centres, which performed an impressive 985 successful keratoplasties last year.
Explaining the procedure for eye donation, Dr. Balbir Singh highlighted the crucial role of family support. After pledging their eyes, donors must inform their family members to ensure a smooth process. In the event of the donor's death, the family should promptly contact the nearest eye bank. It is essential that the corneas are collected within 6 hours to maintain their viability for transplantation. By following these steps, families can help facilitate the donation process and enable the gift of sight for those in need.
Dr. Hitinder Kaur, Director of Health and Family Welfare, outlined the plans for the National Eye Donation Fortnight. As part of the initiative, teams across Punjab will undertake an intensive Information, Education, and Communication (IEC) drive. The focus will be on directly addressing and dispelling common myths, superstitions, and misconceptions surrounding eye donation. By empowering people with accurate information, the campaign aims to encourage individuals to make informed decisions about pledging their eyes for donation, ultimately contributing to the noble cause of restoring sight to those in need. The campaign will focus on key messages: anyone can be a donor irrespective of age, sex, blood group or religion , the process does not cause disfigurement, and it is entirely free for the donor's family.
Dr. Neeti Singla of NPCBVI informed that detailed guidelines have been issued to all the Civil Surgeons of Punjab to organise various IEC activities. She further stated that eyes can be can pledged on the NOTTO website(https://notto.abdm.gov.in/) and the pledge certificate can be downloaded after pledge.
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Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema visits Rara Sahib for paying last respects to Baba Baljinder Singh Ji
Sikh community suffers great loss with passing of Baba Baljinder Singh Ji: Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema
Chandigarh/Ludhiana, August 25-Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema on Monday visited Gurdwara Karamsar Rara Sahib and paid last respects to Sant Baba Baljinder Singh Ji, the head of the Rara Sahib Sampradaya, who passed away on Sunday.
On this occasion, Cheema offered a loyi (ceremonial cloth) on behalf of the Punjab Government to the mortal remains of Sant Baba Baljinder Singh Ji.
Payal MLA Manwinder Singh Giaspura was also present on the occasion.
Finance Minister stated that the passing of Sant Baba Baljinder Singh Ji is a significant loss to the Sikh community. He noted that the Rara Sahib Sampradaya has been propagating and promoting Sikhism for a long time and the entire Sikh community has suffered a great loss because Sant Baba Baljinder Singh Ji was connected to Sikh congregations with the Guru through kirtan and katha worldwide. He prayed that the Almighty grants Sant Baba Baljinder Singh Ji place at his divine feet.
Later, Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema and MLA Manwinder Singh Giaspura also paid their respects at the ongoing 50th death anniversary commemorations of Sachkhand Vasi Dhan Dhan Baba Ishar Singh Ji, the founder of the Gurdwara Karamsar Rara Sahib.
It is noteworthy that the final rites of Sant Baba Baljinder Singh Ji Rara Sahib will be performed on August 27 at 3:00 PM in the car parking area of Gurdwara Karamsar Rara Sahib.
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Cabinet Minister and MLA Reach Out to Flood-Affected Villages with Relief Material
• “Shift women, children and elderly to safer places” – Dr. Baljit Kaur
• “Government ensuring every possible help for flood victims” – MLA Narinder Pal Singh Sawna
• District Flood Control Room active for public assistance
Chandigarh/Fazilka, August 25: Punjab Cabinet Minister Dr. Baljit Kaur and Fazilka MLA Narinder Pal Singh Sawna today visited flood-affected villages Teja Ruhela and Chakk Ruhela, where they personally distributed relief material, including cattle feed, to support the affected families.
Dr. Baljit Kaur informed that due to heavy rainfall in the hills, around 1.7 lakh cusecs of water has been released from Harike Headworks, which is expected to reach the Fazilka district through Sutlej Creek by tomorrow, further raising the water level. She appealed to residents to move women, children, and elderly people to safer places immediately.
The Minister said that, as per the directions of Chief Minister S. Bhagwant Singh Mann, the Punjab Government has set up relief camps across the district, while teams from Health, Animal Husbandry, Water Supply & Sanitation, and Revenue Departments are actively working in the villages. Special arrangements are being made to provide feed and medical care to pregnant women, lactating women and children.
MLA Narinder Pal Singh Sawna reiterated that the Punjab Government is fully committed to extending all possible support to the affected population. He stated that ration kits, cattle feed, and green fodder are being distributed on priority, and added that the District Flood Control Room is operational and can be contacted at 01638-262153 for any assistance.
Earlier, Dr. Baljit Kaur also chaired a review meeting with district officers at the District Administrative Complex to assess the ongoing relief measures and directed officials to work round-the-clock with utmost readiness.
Prominent among those present were Additional Deputy Commissioner (General) Dr. Mandeep Kaur, SDM Virpal Kaur, DSP Avinash Chander, and Tehsildar Jaspreet Singh.