*REVENUE MINISTER HARDEEP SINGH MUNDIAN HANDS OVER PROMOTION LETTERS TO 16 PROMOTEE NAIB TEHSILDARS*
*MANN GOVT DELIVERS DUES IN TIME, KANOONGOS ELEVATED AS NAIB TEHSILDARS: HARDEEP SINGH MUNDIAN*
*Chandigarh, February 3:*Punjab Revenue, Rehabilitation and Disaster Management Minister S. Hardeep Singh Mundian handed over promotion letters to 16 officials promoted as Naib Tehsildars from the post of Kanoongos. These promotions have been granted under the prescribed service rules and after completion of all departmental procedures.
Congratulating the promoted officers, the Revenue Minister said that Chief Minister S. Bhagwant Singh Mann led Punjab Government has remained committed to safeguarding the service interests of its employees and ensuring timely delivery of their rightful dues. These promotions are part of the government’s larger effort to strengthen the revenue administration and improve delivery of public services at the grassroots level, he added.
S. Hardeep Singh Mundian exhorted the newly promoted Naib Tehsildars to work with honesty, dedication and a strong sense of responsibility. He said that revenue officers are the first point of contact for citizens in matters related to land and revenue and their integrity and conduct have a direct bearing on public confidence in governance. He added that the government expects them to uphold transparency, follow rules in letter and spirit and serve people without discrimination.
Additional Chief Secretary-cum-Financial Commissioner Revenue Mr. Anurag Verma also congratulated the promoted officers. He said that the Punjab Government has ensured time-bound promotions and a transparent administrative system so that officers remain motivated and focused on public welfare.
The officials, who were promoted as Naib Tehsildar, included
Swaran Singh, Rajinder Singh, Gurdeep Lal, Rajesh Kumar, Karamjeet Singh, Baljeet Singh, Ranjeet Singh, Parminder Singh, Jaspal Singh, Gurcharan Singh, Sukhbir Singh, Sunil Prabhakar, Onkar Singh, Randeep Singh, Baljit Singh, Karaj Singh.
===============================================
*Punjab Tops India in SGST Cash Growth: Harpal Singh Cheema*
*Collections Surge 14.4%, Far Outpacing National Average*
Chandigarh, February 3:Punjab has recorded strong and broad-based growth in GST collections in January 2026, reflecting improved compliance, focused enforcement and sustained economic activity, even in the face of significant revenue challenges arising from GST 2.0 rate rationalisation by the Government of India.
Gross GST collection in the State during January 2026 stood at Rs. 2452.66 crore, whereas NET GST collection registering year-on-year growth of ₹315 crore at the rate of 15.7% over January 2025, revealed the Finance, Excise and Taxation Minister Harpal Singh Cheema.
This achievement is particularly noteworthy as Punjab faced an estimated monthly revenue loss of around Rs. 250 crores due to GST 2.0 rate reductions impacting key sectors such as yarn, textiles, hosiery, pharmaceuticals, insurance, tyres and cement. Despite this structural loss, the State not only compensated for the revenue impact but also delivered growth well above the national trend through sustained administrative and enforcement efforts.
Divulging more, the Minister said that on a year-to-date basis (up to January 2026), net GST collections have grown by 13.4%, with cumulative collections increasing from Rs. 19,415 crores to Rs. 22,014 crores. The Gross GST collections during the same period have also recorded a healthy growth of 13.0%, underscoring the resilience of Punjab’s tax base.
A key highlight of January 2026 has been the exceptional performance in SGST cash collections, which grew by 14.4%, the highest growth rate among all States in India for the month. This stands in sharp contrast to the national average cash growth of around 6%, placing Punjab significantly ahead of the all-India trajectory.
At the same time, the State has maintained a strong focus on taxpayer facilitation. During January 2026 alone, Rs. 129 crores of SGST refunds were issued, while total GST refunds in the month amounted to approximately Rs. 300 crores. This balanced approach of firm revenue mobilisation combined with timely and regular refunds reflects a mature, transparent and taxpayer-friendly tax administration.
Enforcement actions have also yielded substantial results. The State Intelligence and Preventive Units (SIPUs) crossed Rs. 200 crores in stopping ITC theft & arresting the trend of bogus billing during January 2026 through road checking, inspections and verifications. With this, total enforcement recovery in the current financial year is nearing Rs. 1,000 crores, the highest ever, clearly demonstrating intensified and data-driven action against tax evasion.
In addition to GST 2.0-related challenges, Punjab has faced further fiscal pressure due to the unilateral deduction of approximately Rs. 280 crores from IGST settlements by the Centre over the last three months. Despite this adverse impact on State revenues, Punjab continues to remain firmly in the green, reflecting the strength of its GST administration and compliance ecosystem.
Despite rate rationalisation, sector-specific revenue losses and IGST settlement deductions, Punjab has successfully protected its revenue base and achieved growth well above the national average. This performance highlights how improved analytics, targeted enforcement, enhanced voluntary compliance and efficient administration can effectively offset structural and policy-driven revenue constraints.
The Department of Taxation reiterates its commitment to fair, transparent and technology-driven tax administration, ensuring sustained revenue growth for the State while simultaneously promoting ease of doing business and timely refunds for compliant taxpayers, added Harpal Singh Cheema.
=================================================
*Punjab Government Firmly Committed to Making State Free from Child Marriage: 111 Cases Prevented – Dr. Baljit Kaur*
*2,076 Child Marriage Prohibition Officers Appointed to Strengthen Prevention Mechanism – Dr. Baljit Kaur*
*Protecting Children’s Future is a Top Priority of the Mann Government – Dr. Baljit Kaur*
*Report Child Marriage on 1098; Public Participation is Crucial*
Chandigarh, February 3:Under the dynamic leadership of Chief Minister S. Bhagwant Singh Mann, the Punjab Government is working with firm resolve to eradicate the social evil of child marriage from the state. This was stated by Punjab’s Minister for Social Security, Women and Child Development, Dr. Baljit Kaur.
Sharing details, Social Security, Women and Child Development Minister Dr. Baljit Kaur said that from January 2024 till date, 111 cases of child marriage have been successfully prevented in Punjab, reflecting the Mann Government’s strong commitment towards safeguarding children’s rights and ensuring a secure and dignified future for them.
Providing district-wise details, Social Security Minister Dr. Baljit Kaur said that 5 cases were prevented in Amritsar, 1 in Barnala, 9 in Bathinda, 4 in Fatehgarh Sahib, 4 in Ferozepur, 18 in Fazilka, 3 in Faridkot, 8 in Gurdaspur, 1 in Hoshiarpur, 2 in Jalandhar, 3 in Ludhiana, 5 in Kapurthala, 8 in Mansa, 12 in Moga, 5 in Sri Muktsar Sahib, 4 in Patiala, 2 in Pathankot, 1 in Rupnagar, 1 in Sangrur, 4 in SAS Nagar (Mohali), 5 in Shaheed Bhagat Singh Nagar and 6 cases in Tarn Taran.
The Cabinet Minister emphasized that securing the future of children is the highest priority of the Mann Government, and strict as well as sensitive action is being taken against child marriage to protect children from physical, emotional and social harm.
She further informed that to strengthen the child marriage prevention framework, the Punjab Government has appointed 2,076 Child Marriage Prohibition Officers (CMPOs) across the state. These include Child Development Project Officers (CDPOs) of the Social Security, Women and Child Development Department and Principals of Senior Secondary Schools.
Dr. Baljit Kaur stated that child marriage is not merely a violation of law, but a direct assault on children’s dreams, education and health. Every prevented child marriage gives a child—especially a girl—an opportunity to complete her education, build her identity and move towards a self-reliant life. She added that the Mann Government envisions a Punjab where every child enjoys a fearless, safe and dignified childhood, and the government will continue to work with unwavering determination in partnership with all sections of society to achieve this goal.
Highlighting the importance of public cooperation, Dr. Baljit Kaur said that people’s participation is essential to eradicate any social evil, as no movement can succeed without collective support. She appealed to citizens that if they receive any information regarding child marriage in their surroundings, they should immediately inform the Child Helpline number 1098 or contact the nearest Child Marriage Prohibition Officer.
===========================================
*GURMEET KHUDIAN INVITES INDUSTRY TO TAP INTO PUNJAB’S GREEN & SUSTAINABLE BUSINESS POTENTIAL*
*• Agriculture Minister highlights 53% drop in stubble burning incidents during 2025*
Chandigarh, February 3:The Punjab Government-led Chief Minister S. Bhagwant Singh Mann, has been taking concrete steps to promote scientific crop residue management to address environmental concerns, improve soil health and boost farmers’ income, said S. Gurmeet Singh Khudian, Minister of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, Punjab.
He was addressing a state-level conference organised by ASAR in collaboration with Canopy.
S. Khudian said that Punjab has successfully been turning the long-standing challenge of paddy stubble into a powerful economic and ecological opportunity.
He informed that Punjab's efforts to manage crop residue are yielding impressive results as stubble burning incidents have dropped by 53% in Kharif season 2025, with cases falling to 5,114 from 10,909 in 2024. The Agriculture Minister credited subsidised Crop Residue Management machinery, incentives and viable alternatives for stubble use for this success. He shared that the state is scientifically managing over 80% of its 20 million tonnes of paddy stubble produced every year, by using modern in-situ and ex-situ methods to boost soil health. The crop residues are also being used in ex-situ applications like biomass-based power plants, bio-CNG units and bio-ethanol projects, generating energy and employment opportunities. "What was smoke in past is becoming energy, industry and employment today," Khudian said.
The Agriculture Minister envisioned a future where farmers reap the benefits of crop residue management. "When crop residue is being transformed into fuel, energy any packaging, it creates rural employment and gives our youth opportunities close to their homes. This inclusive and sustainable development is our goal," he said.
S. Khudian invited industries to tap into Punjab's green and sustainable business potential, stating that the state is primed to create India's first true circular economy region. He showcased the state's potential to turn stubble into value, while stating, "By turning stubble into wealth instead of smoke, Punjab is transforming pollution into prosperity. Punjab is proving that climate action and economic growth can go hand-in-hand”.
============================================
*SAFE ROADS MUST BE BACKED BY RESPONSIBLE ROAD USERS: HARBHAJAN SINGH ETO*
*PWD MINISTER CALLS FOR FAST-TRACK REMOVAL OF BLACK SPOTS AT ROAD SAFETY WORKSHOP*
*Chandigarh, February 3:*Punjab Public Works Minister S. Harbhajan Singh ETO on Tuesday said that the creation of safe road infrastructure must go parallel with sustained public awareness on strict compliance with traffic rules. He said road safety concerns every stakeholder including the government, enforcement agencies and citizens.
The Cabinet Minister made these remarks while delivering the inaugural address at a workshop jointly organised by the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways, GoI, the National Highways Authority of India and the Punjab State Road Safety Council at the Mahatma Gandhi State Institute of Public Administration here.
He said continuous efforts by the Punjab Government and the union Government to strengthen road connectivity have resulted in reduced travel time across Punjab. At the same time, higher speeds and increased traffic volume have raised the risk of road accidents. He said adherence to safety norms is essential for every road user.
Referring to frequent violations, the Cabinet Minister said many two-wheeler riders carry helmets instead of wearing them which leads to grave outcomes during mishaps. He said driving under the influence of alcohol poses danger not only to drivers but also to pedestrians and other commuters. He asked NHAI and the lead agency to accelerate the process of eliminating accident-prone black spots.
Harbhajan Singh ETO said that under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, the Punjab Government has operationalised the Sadak Surkhya Force as a focused step to save lives. He said the initiative has contributed to a decline in fatalities caused by road accidents in the State. The Minister urged the public to assist accident victims, adding that swift medical response and immediate hospitalisation significantly improve survival chances.
The Cabinet Minister said the Public Works Department (B&R) will work in close coordination with all concerned departments to adopt modern road safety practices. He said planned design, regular maintenance and safer engineering standards are critical to reducing accidents and ensuring safer mobility.
Senior officers during the workshop underlined the need for a Safe System Approach, focusing on safer road design, effective enforcement and continuous public outreach.
Rakesh Kumar, Regional Officer, NHAI, said road safety outcomes depend on a combination of safer engineering, regulated speeds, safer vehicles and efficient post-crash response. He shared details of NHAI initiatives including road safety audits, rectification of black spots, improved road geometry, crash barriers, clear signage, road markings and pedestrian-friendly infrastructure.
Parneet Shergill, State Transport Commissioner, Punjab and Director General, Lead Agency on Road Safety, briefed participants on activities conducted across Punjab during National Road Safety Month 2026. She spoke about awareness campaigns, enforcement drives, promotion of helmet and seat-belt use and driver sensitisation, while stressing the need for stronger inter-departmental coordination to achieve long-term reduction in accidents.
A.S. Rai, Special DGP, Traffic, Punjab, spoke on enforcement action against traffic violations and large-scale awareness programmes across the State, stating that enforcement and public awareness must move together to bring lasting behavioural change.
Paramjeet Singh, Joint Director (Admn), Lead Agency on Road Safety, who proposed the vote of thanks and appreciated the proactive role of NHAI while expressing hope for continued cooperation to strengthen road safety initiatives in Punjab.
============================================
*HARJOT BAINS ORDERS SPECIAL AUDIT & INVESTIGATION INTO MALPRACTICES AT SRI DASMESH ACADEMY*
*• EM also directs police to investigate alleged fake Ph.D. degree of the Academy's Principal*
*• Submit detailed report within 30 days, Bains writes to CS*
Chandigarh, February 3:–In a decisive move to uphold transparency and accountability in educational institutions, Punjab's Education Minister and MLA form Sri Anandpur Sahib, S. Harjot Singh Bains, today directed the Punjab Chief Secretary to conduct a special audit and investigation into serious complaints regarding Sri Dasmesh Academy, Sri Anandpur Sahib, functioning on 180 acres of Government land.
S. Harjot Singh Bains, has written to the Chief Secretary, seeking a thorough investigation into allegations of financial irregularities, gross mismanagement and infrastructural decay at the Academy.
The Education Minister's directive follows a preliminary enquiry by the District Education Officer (DEO), Rupnagar, which uncovered significant lapses. The investigation will scrutinise alleged embezzlement of trust funds, misuse of institution property and criminal negligence leading to infrastructure decay, he added.
S. Harjot Singh Bains has also directed the Punjab Police to investigate the alleged fake Ph.D. degree of the Academy's Principal and to secure all relevant records to prevent tampering.
The Education Minister has mandated a time-bound completion of the investigation, seeking a detailed report within 30 days. He said that the findings will be presented to Punjab Chief Minister S. Bhagwant Singh Mann, the ex-officio Chairman of the Trust, for appropriate action.
S. Harjot Bains categorically stated, "The sanctity of our educational institutions is non-negotiable. We will get to the bottom of this and ensure strictest action against anyone found guilty of betraying public trust. We won't allow public education entities to function as private fiefdoms at the cost of students' welfare and public resources.”
========================================
*Punjab Public Relations Department Gives PRO ND Sharma a Warm Send-Off*
Chandigarh, February 3:Information and Public Relations Department, Punjab today bid a warm farewell to Information and Public Relations Officer (IPRO) ND Sharma who retired after an illustrious career spanning nearly three decades. Mr. Sharma’s journey with the department began in 1998, when he joined as Hindi translator. Over the years, his dedication, linguistic expertise, and passion for work propelled him to key roles, culminating in his most recent position as Public Relations Officer and Hindi Desk Incharge.
ND Sharma also overlooked Hindi Jagriti magazine as an editor which was also a testament to his skills and hard work. Throughout his tenure, he played a pivotal role in documenting high-profile government events and the cultural heritage of Punjab.
A brief retirement ceremony was also held to honor Sharma’s outstanding contributions to the department which was attended by Additional Director Randeep Singh Ahluwalia, Joint Directors Ishwinder Singh Grewal, Preet Kanwal Singh & Manvinder Singh and Deputy Directors Navdeep Singh Gill and Narinderpal Singh Jagdeo. The DIPR team extended heartiest congratulations to Sharma PN his superannuation.
============================================
*NANGAL-KIRATPUR SAHIB ROAD FOUR-LANING PROJECT TO TAKE OFF SOON: HARJOT BAINS*
- *Land acquisition to be wrapped up in 2 months, says Bains*
Chandigarh / Sri Anandpur Sahib, February 3:Punjab Education Minister and Sri Anandpur Sahib MLA S. Harjot Singh Bains on Tuesday announced the issuance of the final notification for the long-awaited four-laning of the Nangal-Kiratpur Sahib road, paving the way for the project to commence shortly. Terming it as a “long-cherished public demand and a personal commitment, S Bains said the project would significantly improve safety, connectivity and economic activity in the region.
S. Harjot Singh Bains stated that the land acquisition process would be completed within next two months, after which tendering and on-ground construction would begin at the earliest.
In a video message, S. Bains recalled that the project’s groundwork began with a detailed survey in July 2022. He underscored the urgent need for the upgrade, particularly at the Nangal-Ganguwal stretch, which has remained accident-prone for years and has resulted in the loss of several lives.
“This road is not merely an infrastructure project. It is a lifeline for the people of the region as it serves daily commuters and thousands of pilgrims travelling to prominent religious destinations such as Mata Bagla Mukhi, Baba Balak Nath and Mata Chintpurni. Based on strong survey data and continuous follow-up with the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) and the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI), the case for four-laning was firmly established.”
The Cabinet Minister attributed the project’s progress to persistent engagement with authorities at all levels. “This was a people-driven demand. From senior officials to project directors, the matter was pursued relentlessly. As an elected representative, my priority has always been to deliver development on the ground,” he said.
With the final notification issued and land records now being published, S. Bains said all preliminary formalities have been completed. “Our target is to finish land acquisition within a record time of two months and proceed swiftly towards tendering and execution,” he added.
Highlighting the broader impact of the project, S. Harjot Singh Bains said the four-lane road would act as a catalyst for economic growth across the region. Citing Bharatgarh’s development, he noted that improved connectivity attracts hotels, businesses and investments, generating employment opportunities for local youth.
“The improved road network will benefit nearly 100 surrounding villages by enabling easier access to markets. Tourism will also see a major boost, positively impacting small traders, shopkeepers and local entrepreneurs,” he said.
Minister Bains also listed several infrastructure initiatives already undertaken in the constituency, including construction of a uniquely designed foot overbridge near Sarsa Nangal, development of service roads from Bara Pind to Bharatgarh.
He reaffirmed his commitment to the project, stating, “This road represents my vision for the future of our region. With the blessings of the Guru Sahib and people, we will ensure its timely completion and usher in a new era of safety, connectivity and prosperity.”
========================================
*Vigilance Bureau nabs Rent Collector and Peon red handed accepting bribe of Rs 18000/-*
Chandigarh February 3, 2026:The Punjab Vigilance Bureau (VB) during its ongoing drive against the corruption in the state, has apprehended Mohammad Yasin, Rent Collector posted at Punjab Waqf Board office, Garhshankar and Mohammad Talim, Contract based Peon posted at Punjab Waqf Board office, Garhshankar, red-handed while accepting a bribe of Rs. 18000/-.
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 Balachaur, district Shaheed Bhagat Singh Nagar, Punjab.
He said that the complainant who is an agriculturalist, had taken 10 kanals of land belonging to the Punjab Waqf Board situated at village Bhaddi, tehsil Balachaur, on lease for the period 2018 to 2021. After the lease expired in 2021, the complainant approached accused Mohammad Yasin at the Punjab Waqf Board office, Garhshankar, for renewal of the lease.
He further informed that the accused Mohammad Yasin demanded a bribe of Rs. 50,000/- for preparing the file for renewal of the lease. Complainant expressed his inability to pay the said amount, then the demand of bribe was reduced to Rs. 20,000/-. Out of this, Rs. 2,000/- as bribe was taken by accused Mohammad Yasin on the spot, and the complainant was asked to pay the remaining Rs. 18,000/-later. The complainant recorded the conversation.
After a preliminary enquiry of his complaint, the VB team SBS Nagar laid a trap during which both accused were arrested red handed while accepting bribe money of Rs 18000/- 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.
==========================================