*Overwhelming response continues on second Day of Kila Raipur Rural Olympics 2026*
*Historic Bullock Cart races draw massive crowds as spectators converge in large numbers*
*Punjab Legislative Assembly Speaker Kultar Singh Sandhwan and State Media Head Baltej Singh Pannu preside over second day events*
Chandigarh/Kila Raipur (Ludhiana), Feb 18*The second day of the Kila Raipur Rural Olympics witnessed an unprecedented surge of enthusiasm, with thousands of people, particularly the youth, converging at the historic stadium to celebrate Punjab's rich rural sporting heritage.
The second day's events captured the imagination of attendees as the historic bullock cart races—revived after a 12-year hiatus—took center stage. The thunderous traditional races elicited roaring cheers from the packed stands in the stadium. The Spectators enthusiastically supported not only the bullock cart races but also a vibrant array of traditional sports and athletic competitions, including, Hockey matches, Kabaddi bouts, Shot put throws, 100-meter sprints, Tug of War contests, Long Jump events, Bazigar show and several other rural athletic disciplines. Families, farmers, youth groups, and visitors from across the state and beyond filled the venue, creating an electric atmosphere of unity, excitement, and community spirit.
Speaker Kultar Singh Sandhwan addressed the enthusiastic crowd, hailing the revival of bullock cart races as a historic milestone. This achievement was made possible through thoughtful legislative reforms and robust animal welfare safeguards enshrined in the Punjab Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (Punjab Amendment) Act, 2025. He emphasized that the return of this iconic sport not only preserves Punjab's rich cultural heritage but also ignites fresh enthusiasm among the younger generation for traditional rural games. Expressing optimism, he hoped these events would draw youth back to the grounds, steering them away from drugs and excessive mobile use. He noted the deep emotional bond people share with these games, which help keep Punjab's culture and heritage alive and intact. It is our collective responsibility, he stressed, to reconnect the youth with these traditions—especially at a time when reel culture and digital distractions have distanced them from authentic Punjabi roots.
Earlier in the day, State Media Head, Baltej Singh Pannu commended the organizers and the massive turnout of spectators for turning the festival into a resounding success. He highlighted how the resumption of bullock cart races has infused a fresh festive spirit across Punjab, restoring the glory of the Rural Olympics as a symbol of rural vigor and cultural identity. "Under CM Mann's vision, we have overcome past challenges to bring back this iconic event with proper safeguards, and seeing the joy on people's faces today shows it's worth every effort.
Prominent amongst those present on the occasion included Deputy Commissioner Himanshu Jain, Additional Deputy Commissioner Amarjit Bains, SDMs Jasleen Kaur Bhullar, Upinderjit Kaur Brar, Assistant Commissioner Dr Pragati, District Sports Officer Kuldeep Chugh and among others.
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*80,508 Visitors in 2 Months as Bhagwant Singh Mann Govt’s Wildlife Conservation Drive Gains Momentum: Lal Chand Kataruchak*
*Record Footfall at Chhatbir Zoo Reflects Success of Punjab Govt’s Wildlife Awareness Campaign: Lal Chand Kataruchak*
*Country’s Longest Walk-in Aviary, Solar Upgrades Boost Chhatbir Zoo’s Appeal: Lal Chand Kataruchak*
*Punjab Declares 13 Wildlife Sanctuaries Plastic-Free, Five Wetlands Selected for Priority Development: Lal Chand Kataruchak*
*From Critical Care Unit to Solar Plant, Bhagwant Mann Govt Strengthens Wildlife Infrastructure: Lal Chand Kataruchak*
CHANDIGARH, February 18:The Bhagwant Singh Mann Government’s sustained efforts to promote wildlife conservation and public awareness are yielding visible results, with visitor footfall at the Mahendra Chaudhary Zoological Park, Chhatbir witnessing a significant rise. Sharing the details, Forest and Wildlife Preservation Minister Lal Chand Kataruchak said that in just the first two months of the year, the zoo recorded 80,508 visitors, reflecting growing public engagement with wildlife preservation.
On this, Punjab’s Minister for Forests and Wildlife Lal Chand Kataruchak said, “Under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, our government has worked consistently to sensitize people towards nurturing and preserving wildlife. The response from the public has been extremely encouraging.”
The Forests and Wildlife Minister informed, “The Chhatbir Zoo received 48,719 visitors in January alone, while 31,789 people visited in February to witness the diverse species of birds and animals in the serene and well-maintained surroundings.”
Highlighting the conservation-focused initiatives undertaken at the zoo, Minister Lal Chand Kataruchak said, “As part of our commitment to conservation and protection of wildlife, several pathbreaking initiatives have been implemented at the Chhatbir Zoo.” He added, “The country’s biggest and longest walk-in aviary has become a major centre of attraction. Alongside this, an ultra-modern dinosaur park has been set up to enhance the educational and recreational experience for visitors.”
Detailing infrastructure upgrades, Minister Lal Chand Kataruchak said, “In the 1,200-metre wildlife safari area, the boundary wall has been strengthened and a 260 kV solar plant has been installed to promote clean energy usage.” He further stated that “a critical care unit has been constructed at the lion safari to provide specialised treatment for carnivorous animals, and an open-air Zoo Education Plaza has been developed for visitors, particularly school children.”
Expanding on the broader conservation agenda, Minister Lal Chand Kataruchak said, “The Indus River Dolphin has been declared the State Aquatic Animal of Punjab, and 13 wildlife sanctuaries across the state have been declared plastic-free.” He added that “five wetlands of the state, namely Harike, Ropar, Kanjhli, Keshopur and Nangal, have been included among the 100 wetlands selected by the Union Government for priority development.”
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*Bhagwant Mann Govt Enforces Strict Accountability to Strengthen ‘Sikhya Kranti’, Show-Cause Notices Issued to 6 Teachers*
*• Education Minister Harjot Singh Bains Conducts Surprise Inspection in Machhiwara, says Zero Tolerance for Negligence Under Bhagwant Mann Govt*
*• Students Struggling With Basics Prompt Strict Action at Government Primary School, Machhiwara: Harjot Singh Bains*
*• Education Paramount for Bhagwant Mann Govt, Dereliction of Duty Will Invite Action: Harjot Singh Bains*
CHANDIGARH, February 18:In a clear demonstration of its uncompromising commitment to improving classroom standards, the Bhagwant Singh Mann Government has taken swift and decisive action after Education Minister Harjot Singh Bains conducted a surprise inspection at Government Primary School in Machhiwara and identified serious lapses. During the visit, the Punjab Education Minister found gaps in school management and observed students struggling with basic questions, prompting immediate corrective measures.
The Punjab School Education Department subsequently issued show-cause notices to six teachers, including the BRC, Head Teacher, an Associate Teacher, three ETT Teachers and an IEAT Teacher.
The action highlights the Bhagwant Mann government’s focus on strengthening learning outcomes under Punjab’s ongoing “Sikhya Kranti” reforms. Reaffirming a strict zero-tolerance approach to negligence, Education Minister Harjot Singh Bains emphasised that education remains a top priority for the Bhagwant Singh Mann Government and that accountability at every level is essential to ensuring that students receive the quality education they deserve.
Expressing strong displeasure over the lapses, S. Harjot Singh Bains stated, “Not an iota of negligence will be tolerated. Children’s future is being shaped in the classrooms. Education is paramount for Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann led Punjab Government and strict action will be taken against any dereliction of duty.”
Notably, the Punjab Education Minister has been on a surprise inspection spree, visiting government schools across the state to assess academic standards, student attendance, mid-day meals and infrastructure upkeep. The surprise visits highlight Punjab Govt's commitment to further improve the public education system, keeping students at the forefront.
Sharing a clip from his inspection on X, Education Minister Harjot Singh Bains stated: “Conducted a surprise visit to Government Schools in Machhiwara Sahib and reviewed academic standards and overall functioning. Nothing is more important to us than our children’s education. Any teacher found negligent or derelict in duty will face strict action. Show cause notices have been issued to all the teachers of the Primary School today. No compromise will be tolerated when it comes to students’ learning.”
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*Vigilance Bureau nabs Lineman of PSPCL red handed accepting bribe of Rs 5000/-*
Chandigarh February 18, 2026:The Punjab Vigilance Bureau (VB) during its ongoing drive against corruption in the state, has apprehended Lineman Balveer Singh(Fauzi), posted at Sub Divisional office of PSPCL Attowal district Hoshiarpur, red-handed while accepting a bribe of Rs. 5000/-.
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 village Tanuli district Hoshiarpur.
He said that the complainant is engaged in agricultural work and applied for shifting the route of electricity wire from the meter to his house. In this connection, complainant met accused lineman Balveer Singh(Fauzi) who demanded bribe of Rs. 5000/- in lieu of shifting the route of electricity wire from the meter to his house. In this regard, the complainant had recorded the conversation of demanding illegal gratification by the accused Lineman Balveer Singh (Fauzi).
After a preliminary enquiry on his complaint, the VB team laid a trap during which the accused was arrested red handed while accepting bribe money of Rs 5000/- 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 Mohali and further investigation into this case is under progress.
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RTI Commission issues warrant against PIO-cum-Block Development and Panchayat Officer Abohar
Chandigarh, February 18:The Punjab State Information Commission has issued a warrant against PIO-cum- Block Development and Panchayat officer, Abohar during the hearing of a case.
Giving information in this regard, Commissioner of Punjab State Information Commission Harpreet Singh Sandhu informed that in the appeal case No. 6508 of 2023 filed by Hakam Singh, s/o Amar Singh resident of Village Ramgarh, Tehsil Abohar, the Commission has issued a warrant against Antarpreet Singh PIO-cum- Block Development and Panchayat officer, Abohar to appear before the Commission on March 19, 2026.
S. Harpreet Singh Sandhu said that Antarpreet Singh remained absent despite the instructions of the Commission in the 5 hearings held so far in this case. He said that the commission has also issued orders to the Rural Development and Panchayat Department to attach the salary of Antarpreet Singh.
He said that now in this case, the Commission has issued an order under Section 18 (3) (a) of the RTA Act 2005 to the Senior Supritendent Of Police, Fazilka to serve a copy of these warrants on against Antarpreet Singh PIO-cum- Block Development and Panchayat officer, Abohar and issue instructions to appear before the Commission on the next date of the case on March 19, 2026.
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*Over ₹5,748 Crore Released under Social Security Schemes up to January 2026: Dr. Baljit Kaur*
*More than 35.70 Lakhs Beneficiaries Receiving Regular and Continuous Financial Assistance*
*Punjab Government under CM Bhagwant Singh Mann Fully Committed to Welfare of Marginalised Sections*
Chandigarh, February 18:The Punjab Government, under the visionary leadership of Chief Minister S. Bhagwant Singh Mann, is working with unwavering commitment and sensitivity to ensure the welfare of marginalised, poor and economically weaker sections of society. This was stated by Social Security, Women and Child Development Minister Dr. Baljit Kaur.
Sharing details, Social Security, Women and Child Development Minister Dr. Baljit Kaur informed that under various social security schemes, the Punjab Government has released more than ₹5,748 crore up to January 2026 (during the financial year 2025–26), ensuring direct financial assistance to eligible beneficiaries across the state.
She said that over 35.70 Lakhs beneficiaries are receiving regular and uninterrupted financial support under these schemes, thereby strengthening the economic security of the poor, senior citizens, women, children and persons with disabilities.
The Cabinet Minister further stated that an amount of ₹3,806.43 crore has been disbursed under the Old Age Pension Scheme, ₹1,099.97 crore for widows and destitute women, ₹385.94 crore for orphaned and dependent children, while ₹456.03 crore has been released as financial assistance to persons with disabilities.
Dr. Baljit Kaur emphasised that social security schemes are not merely financial support mechanisms, but represent hope, dignity and security for lakhs of families. “When a senior citizen receives old age pension, a widow gains financial independence, or a person with disability becomes self-reliant, it reflects the true success of governance,” she said. She added that the government is committed to ensuring that no needy person feels neglected and that government assistance reaches every deserving household with dignity, sensitivity and transparency.
Reiterating the state government’s firm commitment towards the welfare of marginalised and economically weaker sections, Dr. Baljit Kaur said that in line with the directions of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, the Punjab Government aims to ensure social security, dignity and financial empowerment for every needy citizen. To achieve this objective, a budget provision of ₹6,175 crore has been earmarked for social security schemes during the financial year 2025–26.
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*Vigilance Bureau nabs Naib Court red handed accepting bribe of Rs 8000/-*
Chandigarh February 18, 2026:The Punjab Vigilance Bureau (VB) during its ongoing drive against corruption in the state, has apprehended Naib Court Rajinder Singh posted in the court of Sub Divisional Magistrate Kapurthala, red-handed while accepting a bribe of Rs. 8000/-.
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 Nakodar, district Jalandhar.
He said that the complainant, a labourer by profession, stated that he and his friend Joban were arrested by the police in a case under Section 128 BNSS (earlier Section 109 Cr.P.C.) and were produced before the court of SDM Kapurthala. Subsequently, the complainant was released on a surety bond and the next date of hearing was fixed for 18.02.2026.
Furthermore he informed that the complainant alleged that Naib Court Rajinder Singh repeatedly harassed him and demanded Rs. 10,000/- to get the case dismissed. Upon the complainant's request and expression of inability to pay the demanded amount, the accused agreed to accept Rs. 8,000/- as bribe. The entire conversation regarding the demand of bribe was recorded by the complainant.
Unwilling to pay any illegal gratification, the complainant approached the Vigilance Bureau Unit, Jalandhar. After a preliminary enquiry on his complaint, the VB team laid a trap during which the accused Naib Court Rajinder Singh was arrested red handed while accepting bribe money of Rs 8000/- 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.
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Punjab Vidhan Sabha Speaker Kultar Singh Sandhwan condoles demise of Punjabi Poet Navrahi Ghugyanvi
Chandigarh, February 18, 2026:Punjab Vidhan Sabha Speaker S. Kultar Singh Sandhwan expressed grief over the demise of renowned Faridkot based Punjabi Poet Navrahi Ghugyanvi. His unwavering dedication towards poetry will always inspire us and remain in our heart.
Speaker Sandhwan deeply saddened to hear the news of his passing away and he prayed to the God to grant peace to the departed soul. Almighty may give strength to the bereaved family to bear this irreparable loss in this hour of distress.