*Punjab CEO Reviews various aspects of Electoral Roll Management*

- Chaired a VC with all DCs of State

Chandigarh, February 5:Chief Electoral Officer, Punjab Ms. Anindita Mitra chaired a video conference last evening, with all District Election Officers-cum-Deputy Commissioners to review the progress of activities related to electoral rolls.

During the meeting, the CEO Punjab took stock of voter mapping activities and reviewed district-wise progress to ensure systematic coverage, accuracy, and timely updation of electoral information.

The status of collection and disposal of electoral forms was also reviewed, with special emphasis on resolving cases involving blurred photographs and gibberish entries. District officials were directed to ensure prompt disposal of such cases strictly in accordance with prescribed procedures.

A detailed discussion was held on the pendency of applications on ERO Net, and the Chief Electoral Officer stressed the need for continuous monitoring and expeditious disposal to maintain the integrity and cleanliness of electoral rolls.

The CEO further emphasised the importance of spreading awareness about the “Book a Call” feature on ECI Net, under which Booth Level Officers (BLOs) provide call-back assistance to electors for transparent and time-bound grievance redressal.

Issues related to Demographical Similar Entries (DSE) were also reviewed, and districts were instructed to undertake careful verification to prevent duplication and ensure the uniqueness of elector records.

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*Bhagwant Mann Govt removes financial barriers for orphaned & visually impaired youth in technical education*

*Bhagwant Mann Govt waives ITI fees for orphans & visually impaired students in COPA trade: Harpal Singh Cheema*

*Punjab Govt approves 100% fee waiver for COPA-VI course across 9 govt ITIs: Harpal Singh Cheema*

CHANDIGARH, 5th February 2026:In a major pro-people decision aimed at empowering underprivileged sections of society, the Punjab Government under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann has approved a proposal to waive training fees for orphans and visually impaired students enrolled in the Computer Operator and Programming Assistant (COPA-VI) trade across Government Industrial Training Institutes.

Confirming the decision after clearing the official file, Punjab Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema said, “The move reflects the Bhagwant Mann Government’s firm commitment to ensuring that financial constraints do not become a barrier to the professional growth of vulnerable students.”

The Minister stated that students coming from orphanages and schools for the blind will now be eligible for a 100 percent fee waiver for the COPA-VI trade, and this benefit will be implemented across nine government institutions currently running the course.

Explaining the rationale behind the decision, Harpal Singh Cheema noted, “While the fee waiver involves a revenue commitment, the government views it as a vital investment in human capital rather than a financial burden. The proposal was discussed in detail during the budget meetings held on January 29, 2026, where the administrative department’s recommendation was thoroughly examined and approved to ensure that technical education remains accessible to every segment of society.”

“Our government is dedicated to making Punjab a leader in skill development and digital literacy,” Minister Harpal Singh Cheema said. “By removing the financial burden for our specially-abled and orphaned youth in the COPA-VI trade, we are providing them a fair platform to acquire technical expertise and secure a dignified livelihood in the rapidly growing IT sector.”

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*Punjab Finance Minister Advocate Harpal Singh Cheema hosts high-level Canadian delegation to strengthen Alberta–Punjab economic ties*

*Talks on investment, technology and innovation as Canadian delegation meets Punjab Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema*

*Invest Punjab showcases Punjab’s investment potential to Canadian delegation during this meeting*

Punjab open to innovation-driven global collaborations focused on sustainable development: Harpal Singh Cheema*

*Canadian delegation keen to understand Invest Punjab’s operational framework, appreciates Punjab Govt’s industrial approach: Alberta Govt Minister of Indigenous Relations Rajan Sawhney*

CHANDIGARH, 5th February 2026:Punjab Finance Minister Advocate Harpal Singh Cheema on Wednesday evening hosted a high-level Canadian delegation at Punjab Bhawan, following a formal request from the High Commission of Canada in New Delhi, with discussions focused on strengthening international cooperation and deepening economic engagement between the state of Punjab and the province of Alberta.

The Canadian delegation was led by Minister of Indigenous Relations for the Government of Alberta Rajan Sawhney was accompanied by Stakeholders Administrator from the Office of the Premier Jatinder Singh Tatla, Senior Advisor to the Leader of the United Conservative Party of Alberta Happy Mann, Executive Director of Executive Operations in the Department of Indigenous Relations Genevieve Turcotte, along with Jagroop Khalon, Jaswinder Grewal, and Puneet Kumar Goyal.

During the meeting, officials from Invest Punjab made a detailed presentation showcasing the wide range of investment opportunities available in the state. Through a comprehensive video and PowerPoint presentation, the delegation was briefed on Punjab’s industrial ecosystem and the state government’s efforts to ensure a smooth and industry-friendly Ease of Doing Business environment.

Minister of Indigenous Relations for the Government of Alberta Rajan Sawhney said, “The delegation is keen to understand the operational framework of Invest Punjab and appreciated the proactive approach adopted by the Punjab Government to promote industrial growth.”

“The visit to Punjab forms an important part of the delegation’s broader India mission linked to India Energy Week, during which meetings are being held with senior government leaders and private sector stakeholders across major Indian centres to explore avenues of collaboration,” she stated, adding that technology and innovation are key sectors where Alberta and Punjab can align their strengths for mutual development.

Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema reaffirmed Punjab’s commitment to building long-term international partnerships that go beyond trade and focus on sustainable development and shared prosperity. “Punjab is open to meaningful collaborations that create value for both regions and strengthen economic ties through innovation-driven growth,” he stated.

The Finance Minister was joined in the discussions by senior officials including Chairman of Milkfed Narinder Singh Shergill, Additional Chief Secretary of Finance Alok Shekhar, Secretary of Industries Mohinder Pal, Additional CEO of Invest Punjab Rubinderjit Singh Brar, and Special Secretary of Power Dr. Syed Sehrish Asgar. The engagement reflected a shared intent to work towards a strong and enduring economic corridor between Alberta and Punjab based on cooperation, innovation, and mutual trust.

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Baljinder Singh Bunty assumes charge as Vice Chairman Punjab State Forest Development Corporation

· Takes over in presence of Forest Minister Lal Chand Kataruchak & Defence Services Welfare Minister Mohinder Bhagat

Chandigarh, February 5:The Punjab State Forest Development Corporation (PSFDC) today got a new Vice Chairman when Baljinder Singh Bunty assumed charge of his post at the forest complex in Sector-68, Mohali amid the presence of Forests and Wildlife Preservation Minister Lal Chand Kataruchak, Defence Services Welfare, Freedom Fighters and Horticulture Mohinder Bhagat and other dignitaries.

The Forest Minister Lal Chand Kataruchak on the occasion expressed gratitude to the National Convenor, Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) Arvind Kejriwal and the Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann for entrusting such a prestigious responsibility to Baljinder Singh Bunty and hoped that the new incumbent would carry forward the development centric agenda of the forest department focusing on plantation and increasing the green cover.

Congratulating the newly appointed Vice Chairman, the Cabinet Minister Mohinder Bhagat said that with this appointment, a grassroots level dedicated worker has been honoured.

Profusely thanking the National Convenor AAP Arvind Kejriwal, Punjab Affairs Incharge Manish Sisodia, Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann and the Cabinet Minister Lal Chand Kataruchak for the trust reposed in him, the Vice Chairman Baljinder Singh Bunty assured that he would leave no stone unturned to fulfil the expectations and carrying forward the developmental agenda would be his priority.

Among others also present included the Vice Chairman Punjab Gau Seva Commission Kimti Bhagat, Chairman Punjab State Forest Development Corporation Rakesh Puri, Chief Wildlife Warden Basanta Raj Kumar, and APCCF & CEO (PUNCAMPA) Saurabh Gupta.

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*GOVT SCHOOLS EMBRACE MEDITATION FOR HOLISTIC DEVELOPMENT OF STUDENTS: HARJOT BAINS*

• *Daily meditation program launched in Mohali schools as pilot project yields positive results, says Harjot Bains*

• *During interaction with school heads & principals, EM Bains says statewide rollout planned*

Chandigarh, February 5:The Punjab Government’s upper primary schools in Mohali district have taken a significant leap towards holistic student development with the launch of a pioneering daily meditation program, said Education Minister S. Harjot Singh Bains here on Thursday.

S. Harjot Singh Bains, along with Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), Punjab incharge Sh. Manish Sisodia, was interacting with School Heads and Principals at a workshop in Mohali. The Education Minister highlighted the pioneering daily meditation program aimed at boosting students' well-being, with attendees discussing its implementation and impact.

Implemented under the leadership of Chief Minister S. Bhagwant Singh Mann, the initiative has been yielding positive results, with students becoming calmer, focused and emotionally balanced, as reported by school heads, informed S. Bains, while reaffirming the state government's plan to roll out such initiatives statewide.

Focusing on educational reforms like New India Literacy Programme (NILP), S. Harjot Singh Bains informed that the pilot project was launched on January 19, 2026. The structured daily practice involves a 30-minute meditation session conducted post the morning assembly. Precisely 21½-minute meditation module has been uniformly circulated and implemented across schools in the district to ensure consistency and depth.

Interacting with the educators, the Education Minister stated, “True education is not just about academic rigour but about nurturing resilient, emotionally intelligent and focused individuals. This meditation initiative is a conscious investment in the mental health of our students. The early feedback, indicating increased calmness and concentration, reaffirms our belief in building a more supportive and positive learning environment across Punjab.”

Sh. Manish Sisodia highlighted that meditation has solid scientific research backing its benefits for mental and emotional health. He urged school leaders to genuinely implement the daily meditation program, ensuring it reaches and benefits every student, to support their overall growth and well-being.

DEO (Secondary) Mohali Dr. Ginni Duggal welcomed the participants and highlighted the benefits of the program.

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*SAANJH RAHAT KENDRA FOR DOMESTIC VIOLENCE VICTIMS INAUGURATED IN JALANDHAR*

*— SPECIAL DGP GURPREET KAUR DEO INAUGURATES KENDRA, TERMS IT AS SIGNIFICANT STEP TOWARDS COMMUNITY POLICING AND WOMEN'S SAFETY*

*— CENTRE AT CIVIL HOSPITAL TO PROVIDE IMMEDIATE COUNSELLING, LEGAL AID AND REHABILITATION SUPPORT*

CHANDIGARH/JALANDHAR, February 5:In a significant move to strengthen victim-centric policing and support mechanisms for women as per the commitment of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh led Government, Punjab Police has established the ‘Saanjh Rahat Kendra’, a dedicated support centre for victims of domestic violence, at the Civil Hospital in Jalandhar.

Inaugurating the centre here on Thursday, Special Director General of Police (Special DGP) Community Affairs Division and Women Affairs Gurpreet Kaur Deo said that the centre marks a pivotal step in ensuring timely psycho-social and legal assistance to women in distress through proactive community partnership. The special DGP was accompanied by Commissioner of Police (CP) Jalandhar Dhanpreet Kaur.

The centre, a collaborative effort under the aegis of the Commissionerate Police, Jalandhar, is established within the hospital premises to ensure easy accessibility and confidentiality for victims. It aims to identify cases at the earliest and provide integrated support including immediate counselling, legal guidance, and rehabilitation linkages.

Special DGP Gurpreet Kaur Deo emphasized the critical need for sensitized police response and robust inter-departmental coordination in addressing domestic violence. “The Saanjh Rahat Kendra will serve as a vital bridge connecting victims with essential support systems—be it legal aid, professional counselling, shelter homes, or government welfare schemes. It embodies our commitment to creating a safe and supportive ecosystem for women,” she added.

She highlighted that trained counsellors with expertise in Psychology and Social Work will be stationed at the centre to assist victims reporting at the hospital. The centre will work in close synergy with Women Help Desks at police stations and other concerned authorities to ensure swift and effective redressal, she said.

CP Dhanpreet Kaur reiterated the police department’s unwavering focus on women’s safety and community-oriented policing. “The establishment of this Kendra reflects our proactive, victim-friendly approach. It is about being accessible and acting as a pillar of support when it is needed the most,” she said.

The inauguration ceremony was attended by ADCP-II Akarshi Jain, Civil Surgeon Dr Rajesh Garg, CJM Rahul Kumar Azad, and representatives from the Sakhi One Stop Centre.

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*State-Level Function to mark 649th Prakash Purab of Sri Guru Ravidass Maharaj Ji: Remarkable Confluence of Faith, Service and Devotion on the Second Day*

*Deputy Speaker Jai Krishan Rouri, MLA Kuldeep Singh Dhaliwal and Chairman Jasvir Singh Garhi pay obeisance at Sri Khuralgarh Sahib*

*CM Bhagwant Singh Mann will pay respects at Sri Khuralgarh Sahib on February 6 to offer prayers for peace, prosperity, harmony and unity in Punjab*

*Bhagwant Mann Govt will launch campaign to propagate teachings of Sri Guru Ravidass Ji from Sri Khuralgarh Sahib to every village*

GARHSHANKAR / HOSHIARPUR, 5th February 2026:The second day of the state-level function organised at Sri Khuralgarh Sahib to mark the sacred 649th Prakash Purab of Sri Guru Ravidass Maharaj Ji concluded with deep reverence, religious fervour and spiritual serenity, as a large number of devotees paid obeisance at Sri Guru Ravidass Ji Memorial and prayed for the welfare, happiness, prosperity and peace of humanity.

The organisers informed that the grand samagam will continue till February 6 with the bhog of Sri Akhand Sahib Ji, adding that Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann will also pay obeisance on the concluding day and pray for the progress, peace and unity of the state.

The spiritual significance of the occasion was further elevated by the presence of revered saints, including Sant Baba Inder Das Ji of Dera Sat Sahib, Meghowal Ganjian, Sant Mahinder Das Ji, Sant Prem Das Ji and Sant Sanjeev Das Ji, who highlighted the teachings of Sri Guru Ravidass Maharaj Ji and urged devotees to imbibe the values of equality, love, compassion and humanity in their lives.

Deputy Speaker of the Punjab Vidhan Sabha Jai Krishan Singh Rouri, MLA Kuldeep Singh Dhaliwal and Chairman of the Punjab State Scheduled Castes (SC) Commission Dr. Jasvir Singh Garhi also paid obeisance on the occasion and joined the sangat in offering prayers for the prosperity and well-being of the state and the nation.

Addressing the gathering, Deputy Speaker Jai Krishan Singh Rouri said, “The life of Sri Guru Ravidass Maharaj Ji shows society the path of equality, brotherhood and social justice. His teachings are as relevant today as ever and inspire us to contribute to nation-building with mutual harmony, tolerance and a spirit of service.” He also appreciated the efforts of the Punjab Government to spread the teachings of Sri Guru Ravidass Maharaj Ji among the masses.

MLA Kuldeep Singh Dhaliwal said, “The message of Sri Guru Ravidass Maharaj Ji calls upon humanity to rise above caste, discrimination and social hierarchies and dedicate itself to the service of mankind.”

He stated that the 650th Prakash Purab of Sri Guru Ravidass Maharaj Ji will be celebrated on a historic and grand scale in 2027. “Under the leadership of CM Bhagwant Singh Mann, the Punjab Government has initiated a year-long series of samagams across the state beginning February 4 on the occasion of the 649th Prakash Purab. Such functions play a vital role in uniting society, strengthening communal harmony and guiding the youth in a positive direction,” say Kuldeep Singh Dhaliwal.

Chairman of the Punjab State SC Commission Dr. Jasvir Singh Garhi said, “Sri Guru Ravidass Maharaj Ji, through his thoughts and actions, raised his voice against social evils and laid the foundation of an equality-based society.” He added that inspired by the Guru’s teachings, the state government is continuously working towards social justice, inclusion and the upliftment of weaker sections of society.

DIG Jalandhar Range Naveen Singla, Deputy Commissioner Ashika Jain, SSP Sandeep Malik, Additional Deputy Commissioner Nikas Kumar, SDM Mukerian Oaishi Mandal, SDM Garhshankar Sanjeev Kumar, SDM Dasuya Kanwaljit Singh, SDM Tanda Lovepreet Singh, Assistant Commissioner Parmpreet Singh, along with other civil and police officials, were also present on the occasion.