*FINANCE MINISTER HARPAL SINGH CHEEMA LAUNCHES ‘PENSIONER SEWA PORTAL’ FOR 3.15 LAKH PENSIONERS*
*PORTAL OFFERS ONE-STOP SOLUTION FOR PENSIONERS, AUTOMATES WORKFLOW OF PENSION DISBURSAL CASE PROCESSING*
*SERVICES OFFERED INCLUDES DIGITAL LIFE CERTIFICATES, CONVERSION OF PENSION INTO FAMILY PENSION, AVAILING LTC, PENSION-RELATED GRIEVANCES REDRESSAL & PROFILE UPDATION*
Chandigarh, November 3-Punjab Finance Minister Advocate Harpal Singh Cheema on Monday announced the launch of the Pensioner Sewa Portal, a one-stop solution designed to streamline pension services for approximately 3.15 lakh pensioners in the state. The portal, https://pensionersewa.punjab.gov.in , aims to automate the workflow of pension disbursal case processing and provide a range of services to pensioners and family pensioners.
Addressing a press conference here at Punjab Bhawan, the Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema said that the portal will initially offer six key services to pensioners, including submission of digital life certificates through ‘Jeevan Pramaan’ mobile app, application for conversion of pension into family pension through the Succession Module, application for availing Leave Travel Concession (LTC), submission of pension-related grievances through the Grievances Module, and updation/changes of pensioner's personal details through the Profile Updation Module. The ‘Jeevan Pramaan’ mobile app is on Android at https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.aadhaar.life and iOS at https://apps.apple.com/in/app/jeevanpramaan/id6736359405 .
The Finance Minister further explained that the process to avail these services is simple and user-friendly. He said that the pensioners can register on the ‘Pensioner Sewa Portal’ by completing e-KYC through Aadhar authentication facility available at portal. “They can then access these services from the comfort of their homes using their login IDs on the portal through their mobile phones, PCs, or laptops. Additionally, these services can also be availed by visiting the nearest Sewa Kendras, requesting for home delivery of service, concerned Pension Disbursing banks, or District Treasury Offices”, said Cheema.
The Minister also clarified the situation for pensioners residing abroad, stating that as of now, the Pensioner Sewa Portal is operational only within India, and therefore, pensioners residing abroad are not required to complete e-KYC in this initial phase. He assured that work is underway to enable e-KYC for NRI pensioners. Until then, pensioners residing abroad will continue to submit manual Life Certificates as they have done previously.
Acknowledging that some pensioners might face initial issues during registration, the Finance Minister announced the extension of immediate help and support. He said that a dedicated War Room has been established at the Directorate of Treasuries & Accounts, Pension and New Pension Scheme to swiftly resolve grievances arising after the portal's launch. “Three dedicated helpline numbers (18001802148, 01722996385, 01722996386) have been designated at the Directorate level which will be operational on all working days from 9 AM to 5 PM for addressing pensioner grievances”, he added.
To ensure a smooth rollout, the Finance Minister confirmed that training sessions have been successfully conducted for staff at the District Treasury Offices, banks, and Sewa Kendras, and comprehensive user manuals have been distributed. Importantly, a pilot of the Pensioner Sewa Portal has already been successfully concluded at the level of District Treasury Offices, banks, and Sewa Kendras, confirming its readiness for statewide implementation.
The Finance Minister emphasised that this revolutionary step reflects the government’s commitment to caring for the needs of its retired employees, stating, "Our pensioners are our pride." He assured that the Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann-led Punjab Government is committed to meeting the needs of its retired employees, and that the Pensioner Sewa Portal will ensure timely, accurate, and hassle-free pension services to all pensioners in the state. He expressed confidence that this revolutionary step will benefit pensioners residing in the state and make their lives easier.
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Punjab State Scheduled Castes Commission takes suo moto notice of Amarinder Singh Raja Warring's castist comments towards former Union Home Minister Buta Singh
Amrinder Singh Raja Warring summoned on November 6 regarding the matter
Tarn Taran Returning Officer also summoned to submit a report on November 4
Chandigarh, November 3:The Punjab State Scheduled Castes Commission has taken suo moto notice of the casteist comment made by Punjab Congress Committee President and Lok Sabha member from Ludhiana, Amarinder Singh Raja Warring, against former Union Home Minister late Buta Singh during an election rally in view of the Tarn Taran Vidhan Sabha by-elections.
Giving information in this regard, Punjab State Scheduled Castes Commission Chairman Sardar Jasvir Singh Garhi said that this matter has come to his notice through social media in which the Congress Party's Punjab unit president and Lok Sabha member from Ludhiana is making color and caste-based comments towards the country's late Home Minister and Dalit leader Buta Singh.
He said that the Commission, taking suo moto notice in this matter, has asked Amarinder Singh Raja Warring to appear in person on November 6, 2025 and also the Returning Officer of Tarn Taran to appear in person on November 4, 2025 and submit a report.
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Punjab Government releases over ₹242 Crore financial aid to orphaned and dependent children: Dr. Baljit Kaur
*2.32 lakh children receiving benefits under Punjab’s dependent children scheme*
*Mann Government committed to holistic welfare of orphaned and dependent children*
Chandigarh, November 3:Punjab’s Social Security, Women and Child Development Minister, Dr. Baljit Kaur, stated that the Punjab Government, under the leadership of Chief Minister S. Bhagwant Singh Mann, is steadfastly working to secure the future of orphaned and dependent children through sustained financial and social support initiatives.
Dr. Baljit Kaur informed that financial assistance worth ₹242.77 crore has so far been disbursed to dependent children across the State. This financial support aims to assist children who have lost one or both parents or whose families are facing severe hardships.
She further added that during the ongoing financial year 2025–26, a budget provision of ₹410 crore has been earmarked under this scheme. A total of 2,32,290 children are currently receiving regular financial assistance, enabling them to pursue education, proper upbringing, and an improved standard of living.
Dr. Baljit Kaur reiterated that the Bhagwant Singh Mann Government is fully committed to ensuring that no child in Punjab remains deprived of basic care, protection, and opportunities for growth. The government’s continuous support underlines its sensitivity and compassion toward the most vulnerable sections of society.
Adding further, the Minister said that the Department is also exploring integrated welfare initiatives including skill development, counselling, and education support for dependent children as they grow older, ensuring their smooth transition into self-reliant adulthood. She emphasized that Punjab’s commitment goes beyond financial aid — it aims to nurture every child into a confident and capable citizen of the State.
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DOCUMENTARY SHOWCASING FLOOD RELIEF EFFORTS BY ANIMAL HUSBANDRY DEPT RELEASED
*•GURMEET SINGH KHUDIAN RELEASES THE DOCUMENTARY*
*• Over 2.53 lakh livestock inoculated against HS in mission mode; Mastitis Testing Kits, Dewormers & Medicines provided free of cost in flood hit districts*
Chandigarh, November 3:The Punjab Animal Husbandry Department unveiled a documentary showcasing its relentless efforts in rescuing and rehabilitating animals during the recent devastating floods in the state. The documentary was formally released by S. Gurmeet Singh Khudian, Minister for Animal Husbandry, Fisheries, and Dairy Development, Punjab. Notably, this documentary stands out as a unique effort, created from within the Animal Husbandry department by its team of doctors and paramedics.
Lauding the department’s efforts, S. Gurmeet Singh Khudian stated that under Chief Minister S. Bhagwant Singh Mann's guidance, the Punjab Government and Animal Husbandry Department stood resolute in supporting livestock farmers during the deluge. He highlighted the department's proactive "mission mode" approach in tackling the unprecedented disaster.
As many as 713 villages across Punjab faced unprecedented devastation, S. Khudian said while highlighting that the department's 494 dedicated teams braved treacherous conditions to deliver life-saving doorstep treatment to livestock by navigating submerged areas to provide critical doorstep treatment to cattle, thereby ensuring their health and survival.
He further informed that over 2.53 lakh livestock was vaccinated against Haemorrhagic Septicaemia (HS) free of cost, besides distributing free medicines worth Rs 37 lakh in the affected districts. Additionally, Mastitis testing kits and dewormers were also provided to enable farmers to detect and manage this common livestock diseases effectively.
Principal Secretary Animal Husbandry Mr. Rahul Bhandari shared the critical preventive measures undertaken to combat the flood's aftermath. "We faced a significant risk of disease outbreaks, but our proactive approach helped mitigate it," he said. "We launched a massive free vaccination drive in all affected villages, protecting livestock from diseases like HS. Additionally, to address the acute shortage of green fodder, we distributed Uromin Licks and mineral mixtures free of cost to maintain animal health."
Director Animal Husbandry department Dr. Parmdeep Singh Walia said that the department's efforts was centred to protect the long-term health and productivity of the livestock, ensuring the overall well-being of the livestock and the farming community. This powerful documentary stands as a testament to the unbreakable spirit of Punjab and the unwavering dedication of its administration. The documentary is accessible to all on the Punjab Animal Husbandry Department's official social media platforms.
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Paddy lifting crosses 100 Lakh Metric Tonne mark;
Paddy arrival crosses 127 LMT mark; Over 124 LMT procured
Payments in excess of Rs. 27 000 Crore credited in farmers' accounts
Chandigarh, November 3:In a major milestone, the paddy lifting throughout the mandis has crossed the 100 Lakh Metric Tonne (LMT) mark with over 104 LMT lifted.
Terming the accelerated pace of procurement and lifting as testimony to the farmer friendly policies of the Punjab Government led by the Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, the Food, Civil Supplies and Consumer Affairs Minister Lal Chand Kataruchak said that the necessary arrangements have been made in the mandis with a view to ensure that no stakeholder whether the farmers, Commission Agents (Arhtiyas), Labourers don't encounter any difficulty. As far as arrival is concerned, more than 127 LMT of paddy has arrived in the mandis. Out of this, 124 LMT stands procured.
Coming to the payments front, the amount in excess of Rs. 27000 Crore stands credited into the accounts of the farmers, said the Minister exhorting the farming community to bring dry produce in the mandis so as to derive full worth of their crop which they have produced with so much hardwork.
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Speaker congratulates Indian women's cricket team
Punjab's daughter Harmanpeet Kaur made daughters proud
Chandigarh, 3 November 2025—Punjab Vidhan Sabha Speaker S. Kultar Singh Sandhwan extended heartfelt congratulations to Punjab's daughter Harmanpeet Kaur, who has created history as a captain of the Indian women's cricket team and led India to win the World Cup under her leadership.
Speaker Sandhwan said that Harmanpeet Kaur has made not only Punjab but the entire country proud with her dedication, hard work and indomitable spirit. She has proved that if the intentions are firm, then daughters are no less than sons in any field.
He said that Harmanpeet Kaur has inspired the daughters of every parent by creating new history in the world of sports. This victory is a symbol of women empowerment and this is the beginning of a new golden era in sports.
S. Sandhwan said that the daughters of Punjab have always proven their capabilities across the globe with courage and bravery, and this victory of Harmanpeet Kaur is the latest example.
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H&UD DEPARTMENT FRAMES SOP FOR ISSUING LICENSES TO DEVELOP COLONIES
*LICENSES TO BE ISSUED WITHIN 60 DAYS OF APPLICATION RECEIPT: HARDEEP SINGH MUNDIAN*
*DISCIPLINARY ACTION TO FOLLOW FOR DELAYS BEYOND FIXED TIMELINE: H&UD MINISTER*
Chandigarh, November 3:Punjab Housing and Urban Development Minister S. Hardeep Singh Mundian today informed that Chief Minister S. Bhagwant Singh Mann led government has taken a key decision aimed at boosting the real estate sector by formulating a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for issuing licenses to develop colonies.
Sharing further details, S. Hardeep Singh Mundian said the Housing and Urban Development department has prepared the SOP to streamline the process of granting licenses for developing colonies in areas under its jurisdiction. The process has been divided into two stages i.e. issuance of the Letter of Intent (within 30 days) and issuance of the License (within 30 days), fixing the total time limit at 60 days from the date of application submission by the applicant to the concerned development authority.
The Cabinet Minister pointed out that earlier, the licensing process for promoters was lengthy and complicated, often resulting in unnecessary delays by various development authorities working under the department. To address this concern, the department has now prepared a clear SOP, ensuring that in future, licenses will be granted within 60 days from the date of application submission.
S. Hardeep Singh Mundian said that the entire procedure has now been made time-bound under the new SOP. Specific timelines have been fixed for each branch handling the case such as Planning, Accounts and Licensing, as well as for various departments including PPCB, PSPCL, Forest, Drainage, NHAI and PWD. Every official is required to adhere to these prescribed timelines and any unwarranted delay will invite disciplinary action against the concerned employee.
He further said that the Mann Government has already taken several initiatives keeping in view the vital contribution of the real estate sector to the State’s economy and its potential in generating employment opportunities. Simplifying the licensing process will not only reduce the inconvenience faced by promoters but will also give a fresh impetus to Punjab’s real estate growth, he added.
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Punjab Vidhan Sabha Speaker Kultar Singh Sandhwan honours Jujhar Singh, International Power Slap Winner
Chandigarh, November 3:Punjab Vidhan Sabha Speaker S Kultar Singh Sandhwan today specially honoured Jujhar Singh s/o S. Sangat Singh in his chamber who became first Indian and worldwide first Sikh to win the International Power Slap Championship held at Abu Dhabi. Jujhar Singh scripted history by defeating Russian heavyweight Anatolii Galushka. He belongs to Sri Chamkaur Sahib, district Ropar.
Speaker Sandhwan said that Jujhar Singh has made the Punjabis proud across the globe due to his devotion and dedication towards sports. He said that such type of youth is giving a new identity to the sports of Punjab across the world.
Sandhwan wished him to achieve laurels in this field and reach the pinnacle in his game. Punjab government is always committed to raise the standard of sports as well as for the welfare of the sports persons.
He said that sports can be a powerful tool for curbing drug problems and our youth have to follow sports and sports persons like Jujhar Singh. Our youth needs to adopt sports driven approach to combat drug abuse.
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SRI GURU TEGH BAHADUR JI’S 350TH MARTYRDOM ANNIVERSARY: PUNJAB PLANS 15-DAY EDUCATIONAL MODULE FOR SCHOOL STUDENTS, FREE BUS SERVICE FROM ALL TEHSILS TO SRI ANANDPUR SAHIB
*• Harjot Singh Bains & Deepak Bali detail multifaceted events & massive arrangements for historic occasion*
*•500 E-Rickshaws & 100 Mini-Buses to ferry Sangat free in Sri Anandpur Sahib, says Harjot Bains*
*•Three large 'Tent Cities' to accommodate over 11K devotees daily; 106 acres of Parking Space being developed on approach routes to Sri Anandpur Sahib: Bains*
CHANDIGARH, November 3:To honour the eternal legacy of Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib Ji, the Punjab Government has embarked on a statewide commemorations to mark the 350th Martyrdom Anniversary of the Ninth Guru Sahib to universally propagate His message of sacrifice, righteousness and freedom of faith for all humanity.
Punjab Education Minister S. Harjot Singh Bains, along with Advisor to Tourism & Cultural Affairs Department Mr. Deepak Bali, addressed a press conference here at Punjab Bhawan on Monday evening.
S. Bains and Mr. Bali said that the sacrifice of Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji was not for a single religion, but for the fundamental rights and dignity of all human beings. Punjab government is committed to ensuring that the light of this supreme sacrifice reaches every corner of Punjab and resonates across the country, inspiring generations to come.
Highlighting the multifaceted commemorations, S. Harjot Singh Bains announced that the Martyrdom Anniversary programs would commence on November 4 across Punjab. The events are designed to engage citizens of all ages, with a special focus on youth and students. He further informed that a mandatory 15-day educational module would be introduced in all Punjab schools, from nursery to Class XII, starting from November 10. During the morning assembly, a 10-12 minute pre-recorded recitation would be played, detailing Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji's life, martyrdom, and the creation of the Khalsa Panth. This initiative aims to educate children about this pivotal moment in history. Additionally, all universities, colleges, ITIs, and polytechnics - both government and private - have been directed to organise seminars and events to commemorate the 350th Martyrdom Anniversary. The Minister expressed delight at the enthusiastic response from these institutions.
He further said that a specially curated 45-minute Light and Sound show, highlighting Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji's life and sacrifice, will be held in all districts, starting with Patiala, Jalandhar, Fatehgarh Sahib, and Pathankot on November 4th, followed by other districts.
Sharing a details about the four Nagar Kirtans to be commenced from different parts of the country, the Education Minister said that one Nagar Kirtan will begin from Srinagar (Jammu & Kashmir), on November 19 from Gurdwara Chhevin Patshahi. Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, Aam Aadmi Party’s National Convenor Mr. Arvind Kejriwal, Chief Minister of Jammu & Kashmir Mr. Umar Abdullah, all the cabinet ministers of Punjab and MLAs will attend the Nagar Kirtan, while other three will originate from Faridkot, Bathinda and Gurdaspur. All four Nagar Kirtans will converge at Sri Anandpur Sahib on the evening of November 22. All Cabinet Ministers, MLAs, and officials will serve as ‘Sewadars’ during these processions.
S. Harjot Singh Bains said the concluding ceremonies of the 350th Martyrdom Anniversary would be held in the Holy city of Sri Anandpur Sahib, founded by Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji, from November 23 to 25. Highlighting the significance of the occasion, he said that the events will commence on November 23 with the Akhand Path Sahib at 10am, followed by Sarb Dharam Sammelan, an exhibition at Virasat-e-Khalsa, a first ever drone show depicting Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib’s life and supreme sacrifice at 5pm, and a Kirtan Darbar at 6pm. The day will culminate with "Shahaadat di Lo" that will be illuminated the holy city with the lighting of torches (Mashals). On November 24, Nagar Kirtan 'Sis Bhet' will commence from Sri Kiratpur Sahib towards Sri Anandpur Sahib. The Punjab Vidhan Sabha will hold a special session at Bhai Jaita Ji Memorial at Sri Anandpur Sahib for the first time in the history to mark the historic occasion. The session, scheduled from 12 noon to 4 pm, would serve as a tribute to the revered Ninth Guru Sahib. On November 25, the Bhog of Akhand Path Sahib will be followed by recitals of hymns of 9th Guru Sahib by renowned Kirtani Jathas.
He further informed that a major interfaith conference, "Sarb Dharam Sammelan" would bring together spiritual leaders from diverse faiths. Invitations are being extended to prominent religious figures, including Jathedars of the five Takhts, SGPC President, Head Granthi of Sri Darbar Sahib, Sri Sri Ravi Shankar and Sh. Lokesh Muni Ji, to highlight Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji's universal message of unity and harmony.
He said that a spectacular drone show featuring 500 drones will illuminate the skies at Virsat-e-Khalsa in Sri Anandpur Sahib for three days (November 23 to 25), showcasing the life and martyrdom of Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji. This dazzling display, a first for North India, promises to be a breathtaking tribute to the revered Ninth Guru Sahib.
S. Harjot Singh Bains outlined the extensive arrangements for the expected 1 crore devotees (Sangat) from around the globe. The Punjab Government is setting up three large 'Tent Cities' with a capacity for over 11,000 visitors daily from November 19 to 30. Additionally, over 106 acres of dedicated parking lots are being developed at all approach routes to Sri Anandpur Sahib.
The Education Minister said that the Punjab Government has geared up to provide hassle-free transportation to the devotees. A fleet of 500 e-rickshaws and 100 mini-buses will ply within the Holy city, offering free rides. Furthermore, special free bus services will be launched from every tehsil in Punjab to Sri Anandpur Sahib from November 23rd to 25th, ensuring a smooth journey for Sangat.
With a warm invitation, Education Minister Harjot Singh Bains said, "On behalf of the Punjab Government, I invite the Sangat to unite to pay homage to Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji's life and legacy, which stand as a beacon of hope for humanity.”