*GURSHARAN CHHINA ASSUMES CHARGE AS CHAIRMAN PUNJAB HEALTH SYSTEMS CORPORATION IN PRESENCE OF DR. BALBIR SINGH*
*• Chhina vows to boost healthcare infrastructure as mandated by Bhagwant Mann led Punjab Govt*
*• Mann Govt working relentlessly to secure future generations from durgs, while opposition parties remain preoccupied with electoral calculations: Dr. Balbir Singh*
Chandigarh, February 17: Mr. Gursharan Singh Chhina, on Tuesday, assumed office as Chairman of Punjab Health Systems Corporation (PHSC) in the presence of Dr. Balbir Singh, Minister of Health and Family Welfare.
Expressing gratitude towards Chief Minister S. Bhagwant Singh Mann and Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) National Convener Sh. Arvind Kejriwal for reposing faith in him, Mr. Gursharan Singh Chhina vowed to discharge his responsibility diligently and with utmost honesty to further upgrade healthcare infrastructure and support the government's zero-tolerance policy against drugs. Mr. Chhina, who remained Joint Secretary of AAP Punjab, is prominent public figure in Rajasansi constituency and widely recognised for his ground-level efforts in war against drugs, particularly in the Rajasansi constituency.
While extending heartiest congratulations Mr. Chhina for new role, Dr Balbir Singh expressed confidence that Mr. Chhina will work relentlessly to further strengthen health institutions. The Health Minister urged the new Chairman to bring the same energy and commitment displayed during anti-drug campaign to his administrative responsibilities, ensuring that public health schemes reach the grassroots without delay.
Dr. Balbir Singh emphasised that CM Bhagwant Singh Mann led Punjab Government's anti-drug drive “Yudh Nashian Virudh” is a long-term mission. He said that Punjab government remains fully focused on securing the future of youth from the drug menace, even as opposition parties remain preoccupied with electoral calculations.
Sharing details the progress of the Mukh Mantri Sehat Yojana, Dr. Balbir Singh said that patients are entitled to cashless treatment from admission to discharge at all the government medical facilities and empanelled private hospitals under the flagship scheme. To bolster critical care infrastructure, the state government has established Critical Care Units in 23 hospitals across the state, significantly enhancing access to life-saving services.
MLA Batala Mr. Amansher Singh Sherry Kalsi, Chairman Punjab Water Supply and Sewerage Board Dr Sunny Singh Ahluwalia, MD PHSC Mr. Amit Talwar, Vice Chairman PHSC Mr. Maninderjit Singh Vicky Ghanaur, Sonia Mann and officials and leaders were also present on the occasion.
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*Vigilance Bureau nabs Parminder Singh, brother of Kanungo red handed accepting bribe of Rs 20,000/-*
Chandigarh, February 17, 2026:The Punjab Vigilance Bureau (VB) during its ongoing drive against the corruption in the state, has apprehended Parminder Singh, brother of Kanungo Jatinder Singh posted at Sub-Tehsil Mehatpur, district Jalandhar, red-handed while accepting a bribe of Rs. 20,000/-.
Disclosing this here today, an official spokesperson of the state VB said the above-mentioned accused have been arrested based on a complaint lodged by a resident of Guru Teg Bahadur Nagar, Nakodar, district Jalandhar.
He said that the complainant, an agriculturalist who also runs a car trading business had purchased a 12-marla house in village Haripur. As the sale deed was not executed, a civil suit was filed, which was decided in favour of the complainant. Then appeal was filed against the said judgment which was dismissed by the Hon'ble Court and to compliance the court orders, the sale deed was registered in favour of the complainant.
Furthermore he informed that for delivery of possession of the house, an application was marked to the said Kanungo. In this connection, an amount of Rs. 15,000/- was taken from the complainant in the name of computerised demarcation. Thereafter, a notice for vacating the house was issued by the Kanungo. Accused Kanungo Jatinder Singh demanded a bribe of ₹1,00,000/- in the name of Tehsildar from the complainant for facilitating delivery of possession of the house.
He added that despite repeated requests by the complainant, the Kanungo insisted for the bribe in the name of the Tehsildar. An amount of Rs. 10,000/- as bribe was taken on the spot, and the remaining amount was demanded in instalments. The entire conversation regarding the demand of illegal gratification was recorded by the complainant.
He revealed that accused Kanungo Jatinder Singh again pressured the complainant to pay the next instalment of the bribe. As the complainant did not want to get his work done by paying bribe, he approached Vigilance Bureau Range Jalandhar.
After a preliminary enquiry of his complaint, the VB team laid a trap in which Parminder Singh brother of main accused Jatinder Singh Kanungo who sent him to collect bribe, was arrested red handed while accepting bribe money of Rs 20000/- from the complainant in presence of two official witnesses.
The main accused Kanungo Jatinder Singh, is currently absconding, and raids are being conducted to arrest him and he will be arrested soon, he added.
In this regard, a case under prevention of corruption act has been registered against these accused at VB police station Jalandhar and further investigation into this case is under progress.
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*Agriculture Minister Gurmeet Singh Khuddian inaugurates 86th Kila Raipur Rural Olympics*
*Iconic Bullock Cart Races Steal Show as massive crowds turn up to watch*
*Chandigarh/ Kila Raipur (Ludhiana), February 17*:The Kila Raipur Rural Olympics-2026 kicked off with immense enthusiasm and fanfare on Tuesday in Ludhiana, marking the much-anticipated revival of the iconic bullock cart races after a 12-year hiatus.
The event was inaugurated by Punjab Cabinet Minister Gurmeet Singh Khuddian at the stadium in Kila Raipur village. The resumption of these world-famous bullock cart races drew massive crowds, with spectators flocking from across Punjab and beyond to witness the thrilling spectacle deeply rooted in the state's rural heritage.
Accompanied by MLA Jiwan Singh Sangowal and Dr KNS Kang, Minister Khuddian highlighted the cultural significance of the races, noting their strong connection to Punjab's historical and traditional rural roots. He credited Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann for making the revival possible through the enactment of the Punjab Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (Punjab Amendment) Act, 2025 which introduced safety standards for the animals, addressed legal obstacles and paved the way for resumption of these races.
The Minister expressed optimism that the Kila Raipur Rural Olympics plays a key role in fostering a strong sports culture across Punjab and uncovering hidden talent from every corner of the state. He highlighted the government's commitment to supporting athletes, noting that cash awards have been significantly increased for those securing medals at the Olympics and other major international competitions. Additionally, Olympic medal winners have been provided prestigious government jobs in the Punjab Civil Services (PCS) and Punjab Police Services (PPS).
The Minister further stated that the government has provided nearly 64,000 government jobs on a purely merit-based basis, ensuring transparency and fairness in recruitment. He also pointed to the state's major infrastructure achievements, including historic projects to construct and upgrade approximately 40,000 km of roads. Furthermore, the government has delivered 600 units of free electricity per household over the last four years often resulting in zero bills for many families providing substantial relief to residents.
The Minister announced an allocation of Rs 30 lakh for the veterinary hospital to ensure high-quality medical services for livestock in the region.
Additional Deputy Commissioner Amarjit Bains, SDM Jasleen Kaur Bhullar, District Sports Officer Kuldeep Chugh, representatives from the Kila Raipur Sports Society among others.
This year's edition of the festival, running until February 19 features not only the much-anticipated return of bullock cart races after a 12-year hiatus but also a vibrant lineup of traditional sports such as kabaddi, hockey, athletics, cycling, tug-of-war, and more. The revival of the iconic bullock cart races has sparked tremendous excitement, promising a thrilling display of strength, speed, and deep-rooted cultural pride for participants and spectators alike.
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*OVER 8K EDUCATORS UNITE IN “TEACHER FEST” TO REDEFINE PUNJAB’S EDUCATION SYSTEM*
*• Mega event showcases innovative teaching methods, tech integration & celebrates educators' creativity: Harjot Singh Bains*
*• Mega Fest aims to blend pedagogy with innovation to invest in Punjab's future, says EM Bains*
Chandigarh, February 17:In a significant move to revolutionise the educational landscape of the state, Punjab School Education department conducted a two-day “Teacher Fest 2025-26” at Baba Banda Singh Bahadur Engineering College, Fatehgarh Sahib. The mega event witnessed an overwhelming participation of over 8,000 educators to transform the government schools into a vibrant hub of creativity, technology and pedagogical excellence.
Hailing the event as a testament to the innovative spirit of the state's teaching community, Punjab Education Minister S. Harjot Singh Bains stated, "The Teacher Fest was conceptualised to break the monotony of traditional classroom teaching and provide a dynamic platform where pedagogy meets innovation. By encouraging our teachers to blend traditional methods with modern technology, we are directly investing in the future of every child of Punjab. The energy and creativity displayed during the event, are proof that Punjab's education system is ready to leap into a new era of excellence."
“Teachers are the architects of the nation’s future," S. Bains said while adding that the fest served as a unique congregation where subject teachers from across all districts showcased their ingenuity across ten diverse categories. From developing cutting-edge Learning Apps and IT Tools to captivating audiences with One-Act Plays and demonstrating refined Micro-Teaching techniques, the spectrum of talent was vast. Other categories included recreational activities like puzzles and quizzes, specialised teaching kits, handwriting & calligraphy, handmade models and flashcards and even manual and video games designed for learning, alongside real-life applications of subject knowledge.
The rigorous competition structure saw over 8,000 participants at the block level, with the top two from each block advancing to the district level. The best 270 performers from each category then participated at the state-level finale held at Fatehgarh Sahib. The winners were honoured with certificates, trophies and special compendiums, besides recognising their dedication and innovative contributions to the field of education.
The fest also drew enthusiastic participation from students of Baba Banda Singh Bahadur Engineering College, Sri Guru Granth Sahib University, and nearby schools, fostering a rich community-learning environment. Director of SCERT Ms. Kiran Sharma and other senior officials also attended the mega event, that left attendees motivated to continue their pursuit of educational excellence, carrying the blessings and well-wishes of all present.
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*Portraits of 20 prominent writers and scholars installed at Punjab Bhawan, New Delhi*
Chandigarh/ New Delhi, February 17-Continuing its efforts for promotion of Punjabi language and its rich literary legacy, the Punjab Language Department installed the portraits of Punjabi writers and scholars at Punjab Bhawan, New Delhi.
The department under the supervision of Director of the Language Department S. Jaswant Singh Zafar and Deputy Director Mr. Alok Chawla today installed portraits of 20 famous writers and scholars who contributed to the richness of the Punjabi Language around the globe.
After about 40 portraits installed so far, today, portraits of 20 more late writers and scholars were installed, including Principal Teja Singh, Giani Sohan Singh Seetal, Dr. Diwan Singh Kalepani, Principal Sujan Singh, S. Jaswant Singh Kanwal, S. Nanak Singh, Dr. Harbhajan Singh, Mrs. Dalip Kaur Tiwana, Mr. Balraj Sahni, Bawa Budh Singh, Mrs. Sukhwant Kaur Mann, S. Mahinder Singh Sarna, Mr. Deepak Jaitoi, Mahinder Kaur Gill, Mr. Ram Saroop Ankhi, Dr. Rattan Singh Jaggi, Mr. Mohanjit, Mr. Parminderjit and Prof. Ajmer Aulakh. These pictures were displayed in the entrance hall and verandahs of the upper floors of the B Block of Punjab Bhawan. This work was done by the employees of Punjab Bhawan under the supervision of Mr. Rajinder Singh.
Earlier, the officials of the department met Principal Resident Commissioner Mr. S. Karuna Raju and discussed ways to further portray Punjabiyat in a more effective manner in Punjab Bhawan. Deputy Resident Commissioner Mrs. Asita Sharma said that in the coming days, the renovation work of the local library of the Language Department will be completed and it will be made attractive for the personalities visiting and staying here.
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*DR. BALBIR SINGH CONDUCTS STATE LEVEL REVIEW MEETING TO ACCELERATE PATIENT CENTRIC HEALTHCARE DELIVERY*
*SAYS, OVER 550 NEW AAM AADMI CLINICS TO BE ADDED; PRIMARY CARE NETWORK TO BE FURTHER STRENGTHENED ACROSS PUNJAB*
*ISSUES STRICT DIRECTIONS FOR 100 PERCENT ESSENTIAL MEDICINE AVAILABILITY AND FREE DIAGNOSTICS IN ALL GOVT FACILITIES*
*TARGETING ZERO OUT OF POCKET EXPENDITURE, MUKH MANTRI SEHAT YOJANA ENSURING CASHLESS TREATMENT UP TO ₹10 LAKH PER FAMILY: HEALTH MINISTER*
*"YUDH NASHEAN VIRUDH GAINS MOMENTUM; SOORMA PROGRAMME TO SUPPORT REHABILITATION THROUGH PEER AMBASSADORS"*
*HEALTH MINISTER CALLS FOR RESULTS DRIVEN GOVERNANCE AND ACCOUNTABILITY AT DISTRICT LEVEL*
*DIRECTS CIVIL SURGEONS TO CONDUCT RANDOM INSPECTIONS AND ENSURE EMPATHETIC PATIENT CARE*
*DIGITAL REFORMS, CRITICAL CARE BLOCKS AND PUBLIC HEALTH LABS TO BOOST SECONDARY AND EMERGENCY CARE SERVICES: DR BALBIR SINGH*
Chandigarh, February 17:Punjab Health and Family Welfare Minister Dr. Balbir Singh, on Tuesday, chaired the state level conference of Civil Surgeons and Deputy Medical Commissioners to assess ground level implementation of key health programmes and chart the next phase of reforms in primary and secondary healthcare. The review meeting laid thrust on patient centric service delivery, digital reforms, infrastructure upgradation and strict monitoring mechanisms across districts.
Highlighting the state’s primary healthcare backbone, the Health Minister informed that 881 Aam Aadmi Clinics are functioning across Punjab and witnessing steady footfall and nearly 30 percent rise in pregnant women visits was recorded during the last month alone. High risk pregnancies identified at these clinics have reached 29 percent at the state level, enabling early medical intervention and safeguarding maternal and neonatal health.
Dr. Balbir Singh further announced that 243 new Aam Aadmi Clinics are in the pipeline while 308 Sub Health Centres are being upgraded as Aam Aadmi Clinics. Expansion of services will include newborn and pediatric care, routine immunization and screening for oral and prostate cancers. He reiterated the government’s resolve to strengthen block level institutions with the guiding principle to refer less and cure more.
On availability of medicines, the Health Minister issued clear directions to maintain zero tolerance towards stock gaps, stating that 14 districts have ensured availability of at least 97 out of 102 essential drugs at Aam Aadmi Clinics. However any deficiency will invite accountability. He asserted that every patient visiting a government health facility must receive prescribed medicines and diagnostic services free of cost. Monitoring through e Aushadhi and district level dashboards will be intensified to ensure uninterrupted supply, he added.
Reviewing the flagship Mukh Mantri Sehat Yojana, Dr. Balbir Singh said the scheme offers cashless health cover up to Rs.10 lakh per family annually and aims to shield families from financial distress during medical emergencies. Civil Surgeons were directed to ensure seamless enrolment and smooth service delivery at empanelled hospitals so that no eligible beneficiary is denied treatment. He called for close coordination with CSCs, ASHAs and PRI representatives to maximise outreach and reduce out of pocket expenditure.
The Cabinet Minister also reviewed the progress of the MedLEaPR system which has digitised medico legal examinations and post mortem reporting, bringing transparency and faster processing of cases. Under the Ayushman Bharat Health Infrastructure Mission, the Cabinet Minister informed, work has commenced on all 22 District Integrated Public Health Labs and 22 Critical Care Blocks. Seven labs have been completed and are being handed over to district hospitals to provide integrated diagnostic services including molecular biology and virology testing under one roof, he added.
In secondary care facilities, detailed discussions were held on essential drug stocks, biomedical equipment uptime, sanitation contracts, lift maintenance, fire safety compliance and power backup systems. Dr. Balbir Singh maintained that infrastructure readiness and cleanliness directly influence public trust. Compliance with procurement norms and timely utilisation certificates were also reviewed.
The conference examined progress on maternal mortality reduction, neonatal survival, intensified immunization drives and tuberculosis detection in line with Sustainable Development Goals. Improvement in Maternal Mortality Ratio and high risk pregnancy tracking was noted, while strict instructions were issued for accurate HMIS reporting.
Expansion of Punjab STEMI and Stroke projects across all 23 districts was also reviewed to strengthen tele ECG guided thrombolysis and hub and spoke stroke management. Enhanced screening for non communicable diseases and early cancer detection were cited as key measures to reduce emergency burden and financial strain on families.
The Health Minister discussed the anti drug campaign "Yudh Nashean Virudh 2.0" and informed that Cluster Resource Centres at major medical colleges are supporting treatment and rehabilitation. The SOORMA Programme titled Ambassadors of Recovery will soon be launched to assist recovering addicts through peer support and structured rehabilitation backed by digital OOAT systems and community participation.
Urging district heads to adopt a results oriented approach, Dr. Balbir Singh said every indicator and every patient interaction must translate into timely treatment and dignity in care. He also directed Civil Surgeons to conduct random inspections of health facilities and ensure empathetic behaviour towards patients.
Prominent amongst others who were present included Principal Secretary Health Kumar Rahul, Punjab Development Commission Member Anurag Kundu, PHSC Vice Chairman Vicky Ghanaur, Secretary cum MD NHM Ghanshyam Thori, MD PHSC Amit Talwar, Director Health and Family Welfare Dr. Hitinder Kaur, Director Health Services (Family Welfare) Dr. Aditi Salaria, Director (ESI) Dr. Anil Kumar Goyal, Director PHSC Dr. S.J. Singh along with Deputy Directors, Assistant Directors and senior health officials.
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*BOMB THREAT EMAIL TARGETING MOHALI FORTIS HOSPITAL FOUND TO BE HOAX*
*— SP CITY MOHALI DILPREET SINGH CONFIRMS NO THREAT, APPEALS FOR CALM*
CHANDIGARH/MOHALI, February 17:Following a bomb threat received via email, a thorough search operation was conducted at Fortis Hospital, Mohalibon Tuesday and nothing suspicious was found, confirmed Superintendent of Police (SP) City Mohali Dilpreet Singh.
The threat was received at approximately 8 AM on the official email IDs of a school.
SP City Dilpreet Singh stated that the threatening email mentioned an intention to target Fortis Hospital Mohali. In response, anti-sabotage teams from the Police Headquarters, Range Office, and Mohali Police, along with bomb disposal squads, were immediately rushed to the hospital premises, he said.
As a precautionary measure, given that the threat originated through school email IDs, all schools in the vicinity were also thoroughly checked to ensure the safety of students and staff.
Following comprehensive inspections of the locations, no suspicious substance or object has been found, said that the SP, while confirming that the threat appears to be a hoax, and the situation is completely under control.
SP Dilpreet Singh said that further investigation into the source of the email is currently underway.
Meanwhile, the public urged to remain calm and cooperate with the authorities. He also appealed to citizens to report any suspicious activity to the nearest police station without delay.