Haryana Vidhan Sabha Session to Commence on August 27

Chandigarh, August 18: The Monsoon Session of the Haryana Vidhan Sabha will commence on August 27, 2026 at 11:00 A.M. The Members of the House have been informed about the date, time and place of the Session.

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India-UK Economic and Trade Agreement to Open New Doors to Global Markets for Haryana’s Industries and Services Sector: CM Nayab Singh Saini

Products that earlier attracted tariffs ranging from 4 to 70 per cent will now get zero-duty access, directly benefiting Haryana’s industries, MSMEs, farmers, exporters and services sector

Chandigarh, August 18: The India-United Kingdom Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA) has opened new opportunities for Haryana’s industries, MSMEs, farmers, exporters and services sector to expand in international markets. The agreement, which came into effect on July 15, 2026, provides nearly 99 per cent of India’s exports with duty-free access to the UK market, covering almost 100 per cent of the trade value.

Haryana Chief Minister Sh. Nayab Singh Saini said that Prime Minister Sh. Narendra Modi is strengthening trade relations with major and influential countries as part of the vision to make Viksit Bharat by 2047. The agreement between India and the UK is also a result of this vision and marks a significant leap forward for India in the field of international trade. It will benefit all states of the country, particularly Haryana’s industries.

He said that with the implementation of the agreement, Haryana, a state with strong manufacturing, agriculture, automobile, engineering, textile and services sectors, is expected to gain significantly. The agreement will enable Haryana’s products to reach the large UK market at more competitive prices and help the state’s exporters integrate with global value chains.

*Major Opportunity for Haryana’s Key Industrial Sectors*

The Chief Minister said that the major sectors likely to benefit from the agreement include textiles and apparel, leather and footwear, gems and jewellery, chemicals, engineering products, auto parts, machinery, pharmaceuticals, processed food products, handicrafts and ceramic products. Prior to the agreement, these products attracted tariffs ranging from 4 to 70 per cent. With zero-duty access to the UK market, the competitiveness of products from these sectors will increase, providing direct benefits to Haryana.

Sh. Nayab Singh Saini said that Haryana’s textile and home furnishing industry in Panipat, automobile and auto-parts industry in Gurugram-Manesar, engineering and manufacturing sector in Faridabad, as well as agriculture and food-processing industries across various districts of the state, can take advantage of this opportunity.

*Engineering and Auto-Parts Sector to Receive a New Boost*

He said that engineering products and auto parts are of particular importance to Haryana. Duty-free access to the UK market under the agreement will strengthen the international competitiveness of Haryana’s manufacturers and MSMEs. A direct example of this opportunity was witnessed on July 15, 2026, when the first export consignment of fasteners from Haryana to the UK was dispatched following the implementation of the agreement. This marks the beginning of a new opportunity for Haryana’s manufacturing and export sectors.

*Textile and Labour-Intensive Industries to Get a Major Push*

Sh. Nayab Singh Saini said that Haryana’s textile, apparel, home furnishing and other labour-intensive industries provide employment to a large number of people. Duty-free access to the UK market for these products under the India-UK Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement is expected to increase export orders, expand production capacity and create new employment opportunities.

This will particularly provide MSMEs, artisans, women entrepreneurs and small exporters with opportunities to integrate with global value chains.

*New Markets to Emerge for Agriculture and Food Processing Sector*

He said that given Haryana’s strong agricultural economy, the UK market has emerged as an important opportunity for agricultural and processed food products under the India-UK Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement. The UK has provided duty-free market access for almost all Indian agricultural exports under the agreement, while certain sensitive products have been kept as exceptions.

This will promote exports of fruits and vegetables, processed food products, spices, value-added products derived from grains and other agriculture-based products from Haryana. Farmers, Farmer Producer Organisations (FPOs), agro-processing units and MSMEs are also likely to benefit from this opportunity.

*Wide-ranging Opportunities for IT and Services Sector*

The agreement is not limited to trade in goods and provides broad market access for Indian services in 137 sub-sectors in the UK. These include IT/ITeS, business services, professional services, financial services, telecommunications and education services. This is particularly significant for major IT and services hubs in Haryana, including Gurugram.

The agreement is expected to strengthen opportunities for international business in areas such as software, digital services, BPO, management consulting, financial services, engineering design and technical consultancy.

*New Opportunities for Skilled Professionals*

Under the agreement, provisions have been made to facilitate entry procedures and provide greater opportunities for Indian professionals to deliver services in the UK. Opportunities are expected to increase for various professionals, including architects, engineers, chefs, yoga instructors and musicians.

In addition, provisions for exemption from social security contributions in the UK for up to three years for Indian professionals and their employers will provide a competitive advantage.

*Comprehensive Impact of CETA on Haryana*

The India-United Kingdom agreement is not merely a means of increasing exports for Haryana, but also an opportunity to enhance production, investment, employment, MSME development and the state’s participation in global value chains. Along with this agreement, India’s other new trade agreements are also expanding access for Indian exporters to various global markets.

In this scenario, Haryana’s industries now have a wide-ranging opportunity to expand in global markets by further strengthening the quality of their products, packaging, compliance with international standards and competitiveness.

The Chief Minister said that the India-United Kingdom Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement will prove to be an important step towards connecting Haryana with the “Global Market”. It will enable the state’s industries, farmers, artisans, MSMEs, startups and services sector to further strengthen their presence in global markets while giving fresh impetus to export-led growth and employment generation.

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Haryana Harnesses CSR Power to Equip 23 District Hospitals and Boost Care for Haemophilia Patients

Deputy Commissioners urged to rally banks, PSUs, and industries to provide vital biomedical equipment and treatment support, as nearly 1,000 haemophilia patients seek care across the state

Chandigarh, August 18 - The Haryana Government has launched a drive to gather Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) support from banks, Public Sector Undertakings, industries, and corporate houses, aiming to equip 23 District Civil Hospitals with essential biomedical equipment and enhance treatment for haemophilia patients statewide.

Dr. Sumita Misra, Additional Chief Secretary, Health & Family Welfare Department, has called on all Deputy Commissioners to strengthen this initiative by actively engaging CSR-contributing organisations within their districts.

A district-wise assessment has pinpointed the essential biomedical equipment needed in 23 District Civil Hospitals. With CSR support, these upgrades are set to boost diagnostic and treatment capabilities, elevate patient care, cut down on referrals to tertiary centers, and reinforce Haryana’s public healthcare system.

The initiative places special emphasis on haemophilia patients who need ongoing care. With nearly 1,000 registered patients in Haryana, annual treatment costs soar to about Rs. 50 crore, averaging Rs 4-5 lakh per patient.

Dr. Misra stresses that timely, uninterrupted treatment is vital to prevent disability, complications, and loss of productivity for haemophilia patients. CSR support can be a game-changer in maintaining care and uplifting patients’ quality of life.

As part of the initiative, Deputy Commissioners are tasked with bringing together banks, PSUs, industries, corporate entities, business associations, and other CSR contributors in their districts to seek support for biomedical equipment and haemophilia treatment.

Corporate entities can choose to sponsor specific biomedical equipment identified by the government or provide financial aid for the treatment of haemophilia patients.

To ensure an institutional procurement mechanism, CSR funds meant for purchasing biomedical equipment may be released directly to the Haryana Medical Services Corporation Limited (HMSCL), the designated state procurement agency for medical equipment, medicines and allied healthcare services. This arrangement is designed to guarantee transparent procurement, uphold quality standards, and ensure prompt delivery of equipment to District Hospitals.

Deputy Commissioners are also encouraged to work hand in hand with Civil Surgeons and district health authorities to identify potential CSR partners, craft proposals, and drive the effective implementation of CSR-backed initiatives.

To streamline the initiative, the government has called for a clear district-level mechanism. Each district will appoint a nodal officer to coordinate with the Health Department and HMSCL, fast-track CSR proposals, and monitor their progress.

District administrations will submit detailed action and progress reports to the Health and Family Welfare Department, outlining organisations approached, commitments secured, and proposals in the pipeline, for ongoing coordination and oversight.

Dr. Misra emphasised that when district administrations actively engage, they can rally local industries, banks, PSUs, and corporate institutions for this public health mission. Their backing, she noted, will not only fortify district healthcare infrastructure but also bring real change to patients, especially those needing lifelong haemophilia care.

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Haryana clarifies stamp duty waiver on family property transfers covers aughter’s children: FCR Dr. Sumita Misra

Chandigarh, Aug 18 — In a major relief for families executing property transfers, the Haryana Government has clarified that its full stamp duty exemption on lifetime transfers of immovable property within a family extends to grandchildren through daughters (dohata-dohati / nati-natin) as well.

Financial Commissioner Revenue and Disaster Management Department, Dr. Sumita Misra, shared this information here today, stating that the state government has issued a formal corrigendum to remove a long-standing linguistic ambiguity in the Hindi version of its 2014 notification.

Dr. Misra explained that on June 16, 2014, the Haryana government had remitted 100% stamp duty under Section 9 of the Indian Stamp Act, 1899, on property transfer deeds executed during the owner's lifetime in favor of blood relations—including parents, children, grandchildren, siblings, and spouses.

However, while the original English text broadly used the word "grandchildren," the Hindi notification had only mentioned “पौत्र-पौत्री” (a son’s children). This phrasing created confusion at local sub-registrar offices, often depriving a daughter's children of the zero-duty benefit.

To resolve this issue, the Revenue and Disaster Management Department issued a corrigendum dated July 24, 2026, which was formally published in the Haryana Government Gazette on August 13, 2026.

The amended corrigendum replaces the phrase “पौत्र-पौत्री” with “पौत्र-पौत्री, दौहता-दोहती/नाती-नातिन”, explicitly placing a daughter’s sons and daughters on equal footing with a son’s children for stamp duty exemption.

Dr. Misra noted that issuing the clarification as a corrigendum to the original 2014 order ensures retrospective legal clarity across all revenue and registry offices in the state, enabling citizens to gift or transfer property to their daughter’s children smoothly without unnecessary tax disputes or procedural delays.

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-Haryana Chief Minister, Sh. Nayab Singh Saini redressing the grievances of the people

Chandigarh, 18.08.26-Haryana Chief Minister, Sh. Nayab Singh Saini redressing the grievances of the people at his residence Sant Kabir Kutir in Chandigarh on August 18, 2026.

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Approval Granted for Procurement of Gypsum to Improve 10 Lakh Acres of Land in the State: CM Nayab Singh Sain

Gypsum to be provided to farmers at 50 per cent subsidy: CM

Incentive to be given for completion of works before the stipulated time

Chandigarh, August 18: Haryana Chief Minister Sh. Nayab Singh Saini said that 25,000 tonnes of gypsum will be procured at a cost of approximately ₹15.63 crore to improve 10 lakh acres of land in the state, ensuring adequate availability of gypsum to farmers.

The Chief Minister was chairing a meeting of the High-Powered Purchase Committee. Education Minister Sh. Mahipal Dhanda, Revenue and Disaster Management Minister Sh. Vipul Goel, Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare Minister Sh. Shyam Singh Rana, Public Works and Public Health Minister Sh. Ranbir Gangwa, Principal Secretary to the Chief Minister Sh. Arun Kumar Gupta, along with other senior officers, were also present at the meeting.

The Chief Minister said that gypsum is being provided to farmers through the Haryana Land Reclamation and Development Corporation at a 50 per cent subsidy for land reclamation. He said that high-quality gypsum should be made available so that the land can be improved quickly and made more fertile. In addition, approval was given for construction of a 21,680 MT-capacity warehouse and a quality control laboratory at the HAFED Complex in Kaithal at a cost of ₹9.80 crore.

*Drinking Water Schemes Worth ₹75.50 Crore Approved for 9 Villages in Panipat*

The Chief Minister approved drinking water schemes under the Mahagram Yojana at a cost of ₹75.50 crore for nine villages in Panipat district, namely Bhainswal, Kutani, Rajakheri, Nimbri, Ugrakheri, Risalu, Nangal Kheri, Kabri, Garhi and Sikanderpur.

Similarly, approval was given for sewerage lines in the Shani Mandir and MPS Gudha areas of Gohana city at a cost of ₹16.30 crore.

Sh. Nayab Singh Saini also approved the construction of a judicial complex in Sector 27, Pinjore-Kalka, at a cost of ₹22.70 crore. Similarly, approval was given for Phase III of the Administrative Block of the Mini Secretariat in Ambala City at a cost of ₹34 crore.

*Government Nursing College to be Established in Safidon*

The Chief Minister said that works completed before the stipulated time would be incentivised as per the government’s policy. He also approved the construction of the Bank Square Building, Phase I, in Ambala Cantonment at a cost of ₹52 crore.

In addition, the Government Nursing College in Safidon will be constructed at a cost of ₹37.49 crore.

*District Jails to be Constructed in Panchkula and Fatehabad*

The Chief Minister approved ₹16.80 crore for upgrading and strengthening roads in Industrial Area Phase I, Panchkula. A district jail will be constructed in village Jaloli, Panchkula, at an estimated cost of ₹40 crore.

In addition, repair and maintenance work on approximately 83 kilometres of the Kundli-Manesar road section will be undertaken at a cost of ₹65.66 crore.

The Chief Minister also approved the construction of a district jail in Fatehabad at a cost of ₹37 crore. Similarly, ₹21.17 crore will be spent on water supply works in Julana city.

He said that the hospital in Narnaul would be upgraded from 100 beds to 200 beds at a cost of ₹26.30 crore. A 50-bed Ayush Hospital will also be constructed in Yamunanagar at a cost of ₹16.89 crore.

The Chief Minister approved the work on the Kurukshetra-Saharanpur State Highway. The approximately 10-metre-wide road will be constructed at a cost of ₹26.90 crore. He said that a Detailed Project Report (DPR) is being prepared to convert this road into a four-lane highway. Subsequently, the Kurukshetra-Saharanpur road will be widened to four lanes.

Additional Chief Secretary Sh. Sudhir Rajpal, Sh. A.K. Singh, Sh. Vijayendra Kumar, Sh. Anurag Aggarwal, Chief Advisor, GMDA, Sh. D.S. Dhesi, Commissioner and Secretary, Industries and Commerce Department, Dr. Amit Agrawal, Director General Sh. Yash Garg, along with officers of other departments, were also present at the meeting.

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India-UK Economic and Trade Agreement to Open New Doors to Global Markets for Haryana’s Industries and Services Sector: CM Nayab Singh Saini

Products that earlier attracted tariffs ranging from 4 to 70 per cent will now get zero-duty access, directly benefiting Haryana’s industries, MSMEs, farmers, exporters and services sector

Chandigarh, August 18: The India-United Kingdom Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA) has opened new opportunities for Haryana’s industries, MSMEs, farmers, exporters and services sector to expand in international markets. The agreement, which came into effect on July 15, 2026, provides nearly 99 per cent of India’s exports with duty-free access to the UK market, covering almost 100 per cent of the trade value.

Haryana Chief Minister Sh. Nayab Singh Saini said that Prime Minister Sh. Narendra Modi is strengthening trade relations with major and influential countries as part of the vision to make Viksit Bharat by 2047. The agreement between India and the UK is also a result of this vision and marks a significant leap forward for India in the field of international trade. It will benefit all states of the country, particularly Haryana’s industries.

He said that with the implementation of the agreement, Haryana, a state with strong manufacturing, agriculture, automobile, engineering, textile and services sectors, is expected to gain significantly. The agreement will enable Haryana’s products to reach the large UK market at more competitive prices and help the state’s exporters integrate with global value chains.

*Major Opportunity for Haryana’s Key Industrial Sectors*

The Chief Minister said that the major sectors likely to benefit from the agreement include textiles and apparel, leather and footwear, gems and jewellery, chemicals, engineering products, auto parts, machinery, pharmaceuticals, processed food products, handicrafts and ceramic products. Prior to the agreement, these products attracted tariffs ranging from 4 to 70 per cent. With zero-duty access to the UK market, the competitiveness of products from these sectors will increase, providing direct benefits to Haryana.

Sh. Nayab Singh Saini said that Haryana’s textile and home furnishing industry in Panipat, automobile and auto-parts industry in Gurugram-Manesar, engineering and manufacturing sector in Faridabad, as well as agriculture and food-processing industries across various districts of the state, can take advantage of this opportunity.

*Engineering and Auto-Parts Sector to Receive a New Boost*

He said that engineering products and auto parts are of particular importance to Haryana. Duty-free access to the UK market under the agreement will strengthen the international competitiveness of Haryana’s manufacturers and MSMEs. A direct example of this opportunity was witnessed on July 15, 2026, when the first export consignment of fasteners from Haryana to the UK was dispatched following the implementation of the agreement. This marks the beginning of a new opportunity for Haryana’s manufacturing and export sectors.

*Textile and Labour-Intensive Industries to Get a Major Push*

Sh. Nayab Singh Saini said that Haryana’s textile, apparel, home furnishing and other labour-intensive industries provide employment to a large number of people. Duty-free access to the UK market for these products under the India-UK Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement is expected to increase export orders, expand production capacity and create new employment opportunities.

This will particularly provide MSMEs, artisans, women entrepreneurs and small exporters with opportunities to integrate with global value chains.

*New Markets to Emerge for Agriculture and Food Processing Sector*

He said that given Haryana’s strong agricultural economy, the UK market has emerged as an important opportunity for agricultural and processed food products under the India-UK Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement. The UK has provided duty-free market access for almost all Indian agricultural exports under the agreement, while certain sensitive products have been kept as exceptions.

This will promote exports of fruits and vegetables, processed food products, spices, value-added products derived from grains and other agriculture-based products from Haryana. Farmers, Farmer Producer Organisations (FPOs), agro-processing units and MSMEs are also likely to benefit from this opportunity.

*Wide-ranging Opportunities for IT and Services Sector*

The agreement is not limited to trade in goods and provides broad market access for Indian services in 137 sub-sectors in the UK. These include IT/ITeS, business services, professional services, financial services, telecommunications and education services. This is particularly significant for major IT and services hubs in Haryana, including Gurugram.

The agreement is expected to strengthen opportunities for international business in areas such as software, digital services, BPO, management consulting, financial services, engineering design and technical consultancy.

*New Opportunities for Skilled Professionals*

Under the agreement, provisions have been made to facilitate entry procedures and provide greater opportunities for Indian professionals to deliver services in the UK. Opportunities are expected to increase for various professionals, including architects, engineers, chefs, yoga instructors and musicians.

In addition, provisions for exemption from social security contributions in the UK for up to three years for Indian professionals and their employers will provide a competitive advantage.

*Comprehensive Impact of CETA on Haryana*

The India-United Kingdom agreement is not merely a means of increasing exports for Haryana, but also an opportunity to enhance production, investment, employment, MSME development and the state’s participation in global value chains. Along with this agreement, India’s other new trade agreements are also expanding access for Indian exporters to various global markets.

In this scenario, Haryana’s industries now have a wide-ranging opportunity to expand in global markets by further strengthening the quality of their products, packaging, compliance with international standards and competitiveness.

The Chief Minister said that the India-United Kingdom Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement will prove to be an important step towards connecting Haryana with the “Global Market”. It will enable the state’s industries, farmers, artisans, MSMEs, startups and services sector to further strengthen their presence in global markets while giving fresh impetus to export-led growth and employment generation.

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When the Chief Minister’s Door Stays Open, People’s Concerns Shape Governance

From Late-Night Public Meetings to Last-Mile Welfare, Chief Minister Puts People at the Heart of Haryana’s Welfare Agenda

For Chief Minister-led State Government, Viksit Haryana Begins with Empowering Those at the Bottom of the Socio-Economic Ladder

Chandigarh, August 18- Long after the day’s official engagements have ended, Sant Kabir Kutir, Haryana Chief Minister’s residence, continues to receive visitors.

They come with papers in their hands and concerns on their minds. One is worried about his daughter’s future. Another is dealing with financial distress in the family. Someone else has come in the hope of receiving the benefit of a government scheme.

The hour grows late, but the meetings continue.

Chief Minister Sh. Nayab Singh Saini meets people one by one, listens to them patiently and, wherever intervention is required, issues directions to officers for prompt action. His easy accessibility, calm manner and willingness to hear people out have increasingly come to define his direct connect with citizens across Haryana.

These late-night interactions also reflect a larger approach to governance, one that seeks to bridge the distance between government policy and the people it is meant to serve.

Under the leadership of Chief Minister Sh. Nayab Singh Saini, the State Government has placed particular emphasis on ensuring that social security and welfare measures do not remain confined to announcements, but translate into tangible support in the lives of eligible beneficiaries.

That approach can be seen across a range of recent initiatives, from strengthening the financial security of women and creating a support system for senior citizens to expanding opportunities for skill development and providing rehabilitation to those affected by drug abuse.

*Wider Financial Support for Women*

The Deen Dayal Lado Lakshmi Yojana is set to cover many more women in Haryana, with Chief Minister Sh. Nayab Singh Saini announcing an increase in the annual income eligibility limit from Rs 1 lakh to Rs 1.80 lakh.

The enhanced income ceiling is expected to bring a large number of additional women within the ambit of the scheme. At present, nearly 10 lakh women are receiving financial assistance of Rs 2,100 per month.

The government’s focus, however, is not limited to extending financial assistance. Equal emphasis is being placed on ensuring that no eligible woman is left out because of lack of information, documentation-related difficulties or complexities in the application process.

An action plan has been prepared to identify eligible women, verify bank accounts, make necessary changes in the application system and undertake a comprehensive public awareness campaign.

The larger objective is to strengthen women’s financial independence and enable them to play a greater role in economic decisions affecting their lives and families.

Chief Minister Sh. Nayab Singh Saini has also made it clear that no mother, sister or daughter receiving assistance under the Deen Dayal Lado Lakshmi Yojana will be deprived of benefits under any other scheme for which she is eligible, dispelling apprehensions on this count.

*Care for Senior Citizens, at Home*

The Chief Minister-led State Government is also moving to strengthen support for senior citizens by focusing on care within the home.

As part of the initiative, 1,000 trained care assistants, or caregivers, will be prepared to provide home-based care and primary medical assistance to senior citizens across the state.

The move responds to changing social circumstances in which many elderly people require regular assistance and support while continuing to live in their own homes.

The government has also issued directions for the establishment of Senior Citizens’ Welfare Clubs across Haryana.

The objective goes beyond healthcare. The clubs are intended to offer senior citizens greater opportunities for social interaction, along with an environment of dignity, security and belonging.

For Chief Minister Sh. Nayab Singh Saini, the message is clear: senior citizens are not a burden on society, but an invaluable repository of experience, wisdom and values.

*Training Caregivers, Creating New Opportunities*

To give the elderly-care initiative a strong institutional foundation, Vishwakarma Skill University and O.P. Jindal University has been identified as a training institution.

A total of 1,000 caregivers will be trained in two phases of 500 each, with priority being given to youth and women.

The programme therefore addresses two priorities at the same time — ensuring that senior citizens have access to trained caregivers, while creating new avenues for skills and employment for young people and women.

*From De-Addiction to Rehabilitation*

The state’s approach to drug abuse is also being expanded beyond enforcement and prevention to include treatment, rehabilitation and social reintegration.

Chief Minister Sh. Nayab Singh Saini has announced the establishment of a Centre of Excellence for de-addiction under the public-private partnership model.

A site in Kurukshetra has already been inspected, and work is being taken forward to develop a modern centre equipped with the required facilities.

The proposed centre will not only provide treatment to people affected by drug addiction, but will also help them return to normal social life through rehabilitation and reintegration.

The approach marks an important shift in perspective — from viewing a person affected by addiction merely as part of a social problem to recognising that person as someone entitled to treatment, support and an opportunity to rebuild his or her life.

*For Chief Minister-led State Government, Viksit Haryana Begins with Empowering Those at the Bottom of the Socio-Economic Ladder*

Chief Minister Sh. Nayab Singh Saini firmly believes that, for any government, the true measure of a welfare scheme’s success lies not in its announcement alone, but in whether its benefits reach the right person. It is this last-mile delivery that the Chief Minister has placed particular emphasis on.

Identifying eligible beneficiaries, verifying bank accounts, simplifying application procedures and expanding public awareness are all part of the effort to ensure that deserving people are not excluded from government support.

The larger objective is to steadily reduce the distance between a government scheme and the citizen for whom it has been designed.

Seen in this context, the late-night meetings at Sant Kabir Kutir and the welfare initiatives being implemented across Haryana are part of the same approach.

At one end, the Chief Minister is directly hearing the concerns of people. At the other, the government is working to address recurring social and economic challenges through policies and programmes that can offer more lasting solutions.

Financial assistance for women, home-based care for senior citizens, skill training for youth and women, and rehabilitation for those affected by drug abuse may address different needs, but they are connected by a common purpose, i.e. to make welfare more accessible, meaningful and dignified.

*Chief Minister’s Mantra: People First, Viksit Haryana for Viksit Bharat 2047*

For Chief Minister Sh. Nayab Singh Saini, this people-centric approach is also integral to Haryana’s journey towards becoming a developed and empowered state in line with the national resolve of Viksit Bharat by 2047.

In that vision, development is not measured by roads, buildings and industries alone. It is also reflected in whether a woman becomes financially stronger, whether a senior citizen can live with dignity and receive proper care, and whether a young person affected by drug abuse gets the support and opportunity to recover and return to the mainstream.

The late-night interactions at Sant Kabir Kutir and the welfare measures being taken across Haryana ultimately reflect the same priority: to make the government more accessible and ensure that its policies reach the people whose lives they are intended to improve.

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Education Minister Conducts Surprise Inspection of Government School in Panipat; Directs Special Focus on Cleanliness and Quality of Education

Chandigarh, August 18- Haryana Education Minister, Sh. Mahipal Dhanda, on Tuesday conducted a surprise inspection of the Government Senior Secondary School at Nizampur village in Panipat. During the inspection, the Education Minister visited the entire school premises, reviewed the cleanliness arrangements and directed the officers and teachers to maintain high standards of sanitation and hygiene on the school campus.

Following the inspection of the school, the Education Minister held a meeting with the teachers and had a detailed discussion on the standard of education being imparted in classrooms. He said that the State Government is committed to improving infrastructure in government schools and enhancing the quality of education. He directed all teachers to pay special attention to the studies of students and ensure that every child is able to perform to the best of his or her ability.

During the inspection, Sh. Mahipal Dhanda also visited various classrooms and interacted directly with the students. He asked them about their studies, the facilities available to them and their daily activities. Encouraging the students, the Education Minister motivated them to study diligently and set high goals in life.

The Education Minister directed the school administration to ensure that students do not face any inconvenience in pursuing their education. He directed that all essential facilities, including drinking water, seating arrangements, cleanliness of toilets and facilities related to teaching and learning, be kept in proper condition.

He said that if any negligence is found with regard to students’ facilities or their education, action will be taken against the officials and employees concerned.

The Education Minister said that the primary objective of the Government is to provide accessible and quality education to every child in the State so that they can become responsible citizens of the country.

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Haryana’s New Drug War: Dismantle Cartels, Trace Money and Seize Their Assets

State Aligns Anti-Drug Strategy with National Roadmap Launched by Union Home Minister

4,967 Drug Accused Arrested in State During January-July 2026

Chief Secretary Anurag Rastogi chairs 13th State-Level meeting of NCORD

Chandigarh, August 18: Following the unveiling of the National Roadmap on Narcotics Control 2026-2029 by Union Home Minister Sh. Amit Shah, Haryana has recalibrated its strategy to combat the drug menace, with a renewed focus on dismantling organised drug networks, breaking their financial ecosystem, strengthening prosecution and expanding drug de-addiction and rehabilitation services. The state’s comprehensive strategy was reviewed at the 13th State-Level NCORD meeting, chaired by Haryana Chief Secretary Sh. Anurag Rastogi here today.

The Chief Secretary said that the National Roadmap on Narcotics Control 2026-2029 provides a focused and coordinated framework for eliminating the drug menace, with particular emphasis on disrupting drug syndicates, targeting their financial networks, ensuring effective prosecution, and simultaneously expanding treatment and rehabilitation facilities. Haryana will align its enforcement and preventive measures with this national strategy to make the state drug-free.

The meeting reviewed a multi-pronged approach aimed at moving beyond action against individual offenders to dismantling the entire ecosystem supporting organised narcotics trafficking. Special emphasis was laid on identifying drug cartels, mapping their networks and taking coordinated action against their key operatives, financiers and facilitators.

ADGP, Haryana State Narcotic Control Bureau (HSNCB), Sh. Sanjay Kumar informed that the state’s financial crackdown on the narcotics trade has recorded a sharp escalation. The number of persons whose property was attached under the NDPS Act increased from 26 during January-July 2025 to 111 during the corresponding period of 2026, a rise of 326.92 per cent.

Enforcement action has also intensified across the state. During January-July 2026, Haryana registered 2,853 FIRs under drug laws, compared with 2,161 during the corresponding period of 2025, marking a 32.02 per cent increase. The number of accused arrested rose from 4,254 to 4,967, while commercial-quantity cases increased from 267 to 283. The conviction rate in commercial-quantity cases also improved from 58.20 per cent to 61.11 per cent.

The enforcement data presented during the review showed substantial increases in seizures of several major narcotics. Heroin recovery rose 67.50 per cent to 58.583 kg, while opium seizures increased 83.99 per cent to 314.553 kg.

SP, HSNCB (H), Srishti Gupta informed that Haryana’s strategy is increasingly shifting from action against individual offenders to dismantling organised drug syndicates and attacking their financial networks. The National Roadmap on Narcotics Control 2026-29 calls for intelligence gathering and preparation of dossiers aimed at dismantling identified drug cartels by December 2027. Financial investigations are to be initiated in all identified cartel cases.

She said Haryana has fixed a ₹30 crore target for attachment of proceeds of crime during 2026, against which property worth ₹13.32 crore has already been seized till July. District-wise targets have also been communicated to the concerned enforcement agencies.

The meeting also emphasised the effective use of the Prevention of Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act (PITNDPS) to prevent habitual and organised drug offenders from continuing their illegal activities. Utilising all legal provisions available, Haryana has a set a target of ensuring preventive detention of at least 70 habitual offenders by March 2027 to effectively disrupt drug networks.

Focused prosecution was identified as another important pillar of the strategy. The state will ensure effective and time-bound disposal of 50 commercial-quantity NDPS cases. Close monitoring of prosecution, ensuring trials are conducted effectively and in a time bound manner is being done.

The state is also stepping up action against fugitives involved in narcotics cases. Wherever drug offenders evade the law and flee the country, Blue Notices and Red Corner Notices will be generated through the appropriate channels to facilitate their tracing, extradition and eventual production before the law. So far,29 fugitives have been identified by Haryana police out of whom Blue corner notices have been issued against 2 and Red corner notice has been issued against 1 fugitive.

Another emerging challenge discussed during the meeting was the clandestine manufacture of synthetic drugs. District police chiefs were sensitised about some red flag indicators to identify such clandestine labs in their areas. The police patrolling staff have been directed to keep an eye for such tell tale signs of clandestine drug labs.

Identified drug hotspots have also been shared with SEWA Department for focused awareness and de-addiction related activities.

The state is also working to strengthen health services and de-addiction centres in drug-affected areas, in line with the broader objective of making treatment and rehabilitation an integral part of the anti-drug campaign.

The NCORD review thus placed the state’s narcotics strategy on four broad pillars—stronger enforcement and intelligence operations, tighter control of precursors and synthetic drugs, demand and harm reduction, and enhanced capacity-building and coordination.

Additional Chief Secretary, SEWA Department, Smt. G Anupama, Additional Chief Secretary, Development & Panchayats, Sh. Vijayendra Kumar, Excise & Taxation Commissioner Sh. Vinay Pratap Singh, and other senior officers were present in the meeting.

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Haryana Gives Ex-Agniveers Up to 20% Horizontal Reservation in Key Government Posts

20% quota for police, forest, prison, mining, wildlife and fire posts; 5% in other Group-C jobs and 1% in skill-related Group-B posts

Ex-Agniveers to get Physical Screening Test exemption for specified posts

Chandigarh, August 18: The Haryana Government has significantly expanded employment opportunities for Ex-Agniveers by providing 20 per cent horizontal reservation in direct recruitment to a specified set of government posts, besides 5 per cent horizontal reservation in other Group-C posts and 1 per cent in Group-B posts relatable to skill specialisation. The consolidated instructions were issued today by Chief Secretary Sh. Anurag Rastogi.

The 20 per cent horizontal reservation will apply to the posts of Police Constable in the Home Department, Constable in the Indian Reserve Battalion (IRB), Constable in the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), Forest Guard, Warden in the Prisons Department, Mining Guard, Wildlife Guard and Fire Operator-cum-Driver.The category-wise distribution of the 20 per cent reservation provides 2 per cent for Deprived Scheduled Castes, 2 per cent for Other Scheduled Castes, 3 per cent for BC-A, 2 per cent for BC-B, 2 per cent for EWS and 9 per cent for the Unreserved category. The two Scheduled Caste categories together, therefore, account for 4 per cent of the 20 per cent Ex-Agniveer reservation.

For other Group-C posts, excluding the posts covered under the 20 per cent reservation, the government has prescribed 5 per cent horizontal reservation for Ex-Agniveers. The category-wise distribution within the 5 per cent reservation provides 1 per cent for Deprived Scheduled Castes, for Other Scheduled Castes, 1 per cent for BC-A, and BC-B 2 per cent 3 per cent for EWS and Unreserved category.

For Group-B posts relatable to skill specialisation, the government has fixed 1 per cent horizontal reservation for Ex-Agniveers. The provision is aimed at giving recognition in government recruitment to skills acquired during military service and training..After completion of the recruitment process, Ex-Agniveers will be selected according to their merit within their respective category. Their selection will be made against the point reserved for the vertical category to which they belong.

The government has also laid down the procedure for cases where a suitable Ex-Agniveer is not available against a reserved point. In such circumstances, the vacancy may be filled by a suitable candidate belonging to the respective vertical reservation category, in accordance with the applicable provisions.

*Major relief: PST exemption for specified posts*

Ex-Agniveers applying for Police Constable, Forest Guard, Prison Warden, Mining Guard, Wildlife Guard and Fire Operator-cum-Driver posts will be exempted from the Physical Screening Test (PST), which otherwise forms part of the eligibility process for these recruitments.

The government has retained the existing provision under which Ex-Agniveers are exempted from the Common Eligibility Test (CET) for Group-C posts.

They will also be exempted from the skill-related test corresponding to the skills acquired during their training for the advertised posts. However, Ex-Agniveers will still have to appear in the written examination prescribed by the recruiting agency for the advertised posts

*Exemption to be claimed while submitting application*

The applicable exemption will be provided at the time of application when Ex-Agniveers apply in response to advertisements for such posts issued by the Haryana Staff Selection Commission (HSSC).

The consolidated instructions will come into force from September 1, 2026. They will supersede the earlier instructions issued on August 20, 2025, and July 20, 2026, relating to reservation for Ex-Agniveers.

All concerned departments and authorities have been directed to implement the revised provisions accordingly.

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Government Working on Priority to Provide Safe, Smooth and Better Commuting Facilities to People- Cabinet Minister Ranbir Gangwa

Special Repair of Koth Kalan-Khanpur Road to be Undertaken; Government Grants Administrative Approval of Rs 2.46 Crore

Chandigarh, August 18- Haryana Public Health Engineering and Public Works Minister, Sh. Ranbir Gangwa, said that the State Government is working on priority to develop a strong road network in rural areas and provide safe, smooth and better commuting facilities to the people. In this direction, the State Government has accorded administrative approval of Rs 2.45 crore for the special repair and strengthening of the road from Koth Kalan to Khanpur in the Narnaund Assembly constituency.

He said that the special repair and strengthening of the road is being undertaken keeping in view the demands and requirements of the people of the area. As per the demand of the Gram Panchayat, provision has been made for CC pavement in place of CC blocks on a portion of the road. A revised administrative approval of Rs 245.92 lakh has been accorded for the work. Following the approval, further necessary action regarding the road will now be initiated.

Sh. Ranbir Gangwa said that roads constitute an important part of the infrastructure for the development of any area. Better road connectivity facilitates people in rural areas in their daily commute and provides easier access to education, healthcare services and other essential activities. The Government is making efforts to strengthen and improve rural roads as per requirement so that people do not face any inconvenience in commuting, he said.

The Cabinet Minister said that the improvement of the Koth Kalan-Khanpur road will directly benefit the residents of Koth Kalan, Khanpur and adjoining villages. Strengthening of the road will make commuting in the area smoother and provide better road connectivity to rural residents, he said.

Sh. Ranbir Gangwa said that while the State Government is ensuring speedy implementation of development works on the ground, demands and requirements received at the local level are also being accorded priority. The revised administrative approval for this road work is an important step in this direction, he said.

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Haryana’s New Drug War: Dismantle Cartels, Trace Money and Seize Their Assets

State Aligns Anti-Drug Strategy with National Roadmap Launched by Union Home Minister

4,967 Drug Accused Arrested in State During January-July 2026

Chief Secretary Anurag Rastogi chairs 13th State-Level meeting of NCORD

Chandigarh, August 18: Following the unveiling of the National Roadmap on Narcotics Control 2026-2029 by Union Home Minister Sh. Amit Shah, Haryana has recalibrated its strategy to combat the drug menace, with a renewed focus on dismantling organised drug networks, breaking their financial ecosystem, strengthening prosecution and expanding drug de-addiction and rehabilitation services. The state’s comprehensive strategy was reviewed at the 13th State-Level NCORD meeting, chaired by Haryana Chief Secretary Sh. Anurag Rastogi here today.

The Chief Secretary said that the National Roadmap on Narcotics Control 2026-2029 provides a focused and coordinated framework for eliminating the drug menace, with particular emphasis on disrupting drug syndicates, targeting their financial networks, ensuring effective prosecution, and simultaneously expanding treatment and rehabilitation facilities. Haryana will align its enforcement and preventive measures with this national strategy to make the state drug-free.

The meeting reviewed a multi-pronged approach aimed at moving beyond action against individual offenders to dismantling the entire ecosystem supporting organised narcotics trafficking. Special emphasis was laid on identifying drug cartels, mapping their networks and taking coordinated action against their key operatives, financiers and facilitators.

ADGP, Haryana State Narcotic Control Bureau (HSNCB), Sh. Sanjay Kumar informed that the state’s financial crackdown on the narcotics trade has recorded a sharp escalation. The number of persons whose property was attached under the NDPS Act increased from 26 during January-July 2025 to 111 during the corresponding period of 2026, a rise of 326.92 per cent.

Enforcement action has also intensified across the state. During January-July 2026, Haryana registered 2,853 FIRs under drug laws, compared with 2,161 during the corresponding period of 2025, marking a 32.02 per cent increase. The number of accused arrested rose from 4,254 to 4,967, while commercial-quantity cases increased from 267 to 283. The conviction rate in commercial-quantity cases also improved from 58.20 per cent to 61.11 per cent.

The enforcement data presented during the review showed substantial increases in seizures of several major narcotics. Heroin recovery rose 67.50 per cent to 58.583 kg, while opium seizures increased 83.99 per cent to 314.553 kg.

SP, HSNCB (H), Srishti Gupta informed that Haryana’s strategy is increasingly shifting from action against individual offenders to dismantling organised drug syndicates and attacking their financial networks. The National Roadmap on Narcotics Control 2026-29 calls for intelligence gathering and preparation of dossiers aimed at dismantling identified drug cartels by December 2027. Financial investigations are to be initiated in all identified cartel cases.

She said Haryana has fixed a ₹30 crore target for attachment of proceeds of crime during 2026, against which property worth ₹13.32 crore has already been seized till July. District-wise targets have also been communicated to the concerned enforcement agencies.

The meeting also emphasised the effective use of the Prevention of Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act (PITNDPS) to prevent habitual and organised drug offenders from continuing their illegal activities. Utilising all legal provisions available, Haryana has a set a target of ensuring preventive detention of at least 70 habitual offenders by March 2027 to effectively disrupt drug networks.

Focused prosecution was identified as another important pillar of the strategy. The state will ensure effective and time-bound disposal of 50 commercial-quantity NDPS cases. Close monitoring of prosecution, ensuring trials are conducted effectively and in a time bound manner is being done.

The state is also stepping up action against fugitives involved in narcotics cases. Wherever drug offenders evade the law and flee the country, Blue Notices and Red Corner Notices will be generated through the appropriate channels to facilitate their tracing, extradition and eventual production before the law. So far,29 fugitives have been identified by Haryana police out of whom Blue corner notices have been issued against 2 and Red corner notice has been issued against 1 fugitive.

Another emerging challenge discussed during the meeting was the clandestine manufacture of synthetic drugs. District police chiefs were sensitised about some red flag indicators to identify such clandestine labs in their areas. The police patrolling staff have been directed to keep an eye for such tell tale signs of clandestine drug labs.

Identified drug hotspots have also been shared with SEWA Department for focused awareness and de-addiction related activities.

The state is also working to strengthen health services and de-addiction centres in drug-affected areas, in line with the broader objective of making treatment and rehabilitation an integral part of the anti-drug campaign.

The NCORD review thus placed the state’s narcotics strategy on four broad pillars—stronger enforcement and intelligence operations, tighter control of precursors and synthetic drugs, demand and harm reduction, and enhanced capacity-building and coordination.

Additional Chief Secretary, SEWA Department, Smt. G Anupama, Additional Chief Secretary, Development & Panchayats, Sh. Vijayendra Kumar, Excise & Taxation Commissioner Sh. Vinay Pratap Singh, and other senior officers were present in the meeting.