*Haryana Issues Strict Directives to Private Medical and Paramedical Colleges*

*Strict action to be taken against institutions charging fees beyond the prescribed limits*

Chandigarh, October 19: The Directorate of Medical Education and Research, Haryana, Panchkula, has issued strict directives to all private medical, dental, nursing, physiotherapy and paramedical colleges and institutions across the state, making it mandatory for them to comply with the prescribed fee structure.

The order, issued by Director of Medical Education and Research, Sh. Dhirendra Khadgta, IAS, directs all concerned institutions to strictly adhere to the fee structure prescribed and notified by the government for the respective courses and academic sessions.

The Directorate has clarified that no private institution shall demand, collect or charge any fee, levy, deposit or other amount, directly or indirectly, from any student or their parents/guardians in excess of the amount prescribed or authorised by the competent authority, under any name or in any form.

All institutions have been directed to prominently display the government-prescribed fee structure on their official websites and notice boards. They must also issue proper receipts for every payment received from students and maintain complete records of all fees collected.

The directives further warn institutions against charging additional amounts under alternative names or through other arrangements to circumvent or indirectly bypass the prescribed fee structure. The Directorate has also made it clear that no student or parent/guardian shall be subjected to pressure, harassment or any other unfair treatment for refusing to pay an unauthorised amount.

The Directorate has emphasised that any violation or deviation from the prescribed fee structure will be viewed seriously. Strict legal action will be initiated against institutions found guilty of such violations under the applicable laws, rules, regulations, and orders and directions issued by the competent authority.

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*Five-Day Training Programme on Horticulture and Advanced Technologies to Be Held at Centre of Excellence in Munimpur (Jhajjar)*

*Applications Open Until October 23*

Chandigarh, October 19 – The Department of Horticulture, Haryana, is organising a special five-day training programme for farmers at the Centre of Excellence for Floriculture and Seed Production Technology, Munimpur (Jhajjar), under the Department of Horticulture, Haryana. The training programme will be held from October 26 to October 30, 2026. Its main theme is “Horticulture Schemes and Flower Cultivation through Advanced Technologies.” A total of 10 farmers will have the opportunity to participate in this training programme.

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

CHANDIGARH,19.10.26-Haryana Chief Minister, Sh. Nayab Singh Saini redressing the grievances of the people at his residence Sant Kabir Kutir in Chandigarh on October 19, 2026.

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*Chief Minister Inaugurates Rakhigarhi Mahotsav 2026*

*Seven-day Rakhigarhi Mahotsav 2026 begins on the theme ‘Mati Se Mahotsav Tak’*

*Rakhigarhi Symbolises Thousands of Years of Civilisational Heritage, Cultural Identity and Pride, says CM*

*Civil construction of Rakhigarhi Museum and Interpretation Centre nearing completion; Rs. 188 crore earmarked for next phase of world-class development*

*Chief Minister announces Rs. 51 lakh for Rakhigarhi Gram Panchayat; assures action on demands raised by Panchayat*

Chandigarh, October 19- Haryana Chief Minister Sh. Nayab Singh Saini on Monday said Rakhigarhi stands as a living testament to India's ancient civilisation, preserving the legacy of generations whose skills, ingenuity and collective efforts shaped a highly developed society thousands of years ago. The historic site, he said, represents the country's enduring cultural identity, deep-rooted connection with its past and civilisational pride.

Reaffirming the state government's commitment to preserving and promoting this invaluable heritage, the Chief Minister said sustained efforts are being made to strengthen archaeological research, conservation, tourism infrastructure and public participation at Rakhigarhi.

The Chief Minister was addressing the inaugural ceremony of the seven-day Rakhigarhi Mahotsav 2026 at Rakhigarhi in Hansi district. The Mahotsav is being organised on the theme ‘Mati Se Mahotsav Tak’ (From Soil to Celebration). Heritage and Tourism Minister Dr. Arvind Sharma was also present.

On the occasion, the Chief Minister announced a grant of Rs. 51 lakh for Rakhigarhi Gram Panchayat and assured that the demands submitted by the Panchayat would be addressed.

Earlier, the Chief Minister inspected the museum under construction at Rakhigarhi and visited various stalls set up as part of theMahotsav , where he also made purchases. He reviewed sporting events and other activities organised at the site.

He also visited an excavation demonstration organised by the Archaeology Department, where the excavation process and archaeological artefacts recovered during such work were displayed. The Chief Minister, along with Cabinet Minister Dr. Arvind Sharma and Commissioner and Secretary, Heritage and Tourism Department, Dr. Amit Agrawal, also examined a seal on display.

*Rakhigarhi Offers an Opportunity to Rediscover Our Roots- CM*

Addressing the gathering, the Chief Minister said Rakhigarhi Mahotsav provides an opportunity not only to understand the country's ancient roots but also to recognise the responsibility of preserving this heritage for future generations.

He said the theme ‘Mati Se Mahotsav Tak’ captures the journey of civilisation and the enduring relationship between people, their land and their cultural traditions. He said that the same soil produces food through the efforts of farmers, takes shape in the hands of potters and becomes an expression of culture through the creativity of artists.

Drawing a parallel between Haryana's historic sites, the Chief Minister said that while Kurukshetra gave humanity the message of Karma, Rakhigarhi offers remarkable insights into an organised and developed human civilisation that flourished thousands of years ago.

He said the archaeological remains at Rakhigarhi preserve important evidence of the evolution of human settlements, craftsmanship, agriculture and community life. Pottery, beads, seals and other artefacts recovered from the site reflect the creativity, technical knowledge and skills of the people who inhabited the region.

*Connecting Younger Generations with Cultural Heritage Essential*

The Chief Minister emphasised that the true value of history lies not merely in understanding the past but also in drawing lessons that can guide the future.

He said the well-planned ancient settlement at Rakhigarhi offers valuable insights into how modern villages and cities can be made cleaner, more considerate of people's needs and environmentally sustainable.

Calling upon young people to take an active interest in their heritage, he urged them to acquire authentic knowledge about historical sites and share it responsibly.

He encouraged students to learn languages, strengthen their communication skills and use digital platforms to present the authentic history of Rakhigarhi to wider audiences. Activities such as school-level quizzes on Rakhigarhi could also help generate greater awareness among students, he added.

The Chief Minister urged teachers and parents to familiarise children with local history by encouraging visits to heritage sites and museums.

He said children who understand the history of their surroundings would be better equipped to represent their cultural roots with confidence, pride and authenticity wherever they go in the world.

*International Conference to Explore New Research Opportunities at Rakhigarhi*

The Chief Minister said an international conference is being organised as part of Rakhigarhi Mahotsav, bringing together scholars and experts from India and abroad to deliberate on archaeological evidence, recent discoveries and future research opportunities associated with the site.

He said the conference would help lay the groundwork for new research initiatives, institutional collaborations and wider dissemination of archaeological knowledge.

Acknowledging the contribution of scholars and archaeologists, the Chief Minister said their painstaking efforts to study layers of the earth and piece together scattered evidence continue to reveal previously unexplored chapters of human civilisation.

*Government Giving Special Priority to Rakhigarhi's Development*

The Chief Minister said Prime Minister Sh. Narendra Modi's vision of ‘Vikas Bhi, Virasat Bhi’ reflects the belief that India's modern development must draw strength from its cultural roots.

He said Rakhigarhi is among the five archaeological sites identified by the Central Government for development as iconic sites.

Several initiatives have been undertaken to establish Rakhigarhi as a prominent destination on the tourism map, he said, adding that efforts are also being made to secure its inclusion in the UNESCO World Heritage List.

National and international experts have been invited to undertake detailed research on the archaeological remains discovered at the site.

The Chief Minister informed that civil construction work on the Museum and Interpretation Centre at Rakhigarhi is almost complete. In the next phase, the facility is being developed to world-class standards at an estimated cost of Rs. 188 crore.

*Saraswati-Sindhu Civilisation Corridor Envisaged to Promote Heritage Tourism*

The Chief Minister said the state government has also envisaged the development of a Saraswati-Sindhu Civilisation Corridor to improve tourism connectivity and coordination among important archaeological sites.

The proposed corridor would help create stronger linkages between heritage destinations and promote a more integrated approach to archaeological tourism.

He said the government is undertaking similar initiatives to conserve and develop other historically significant sites across Haryana.

The old Tehsil building in Nuh, Loharu Fort and the tomb complex at Tauru have been declared State Protected Monuments.

A state-of-the-art archaeological museum is also being established in Sector 5, Panchkula.

The Chief Minister said a project has been initiated to prepare site plans and exterior design frameworks for all State Protected Monuments to strengthen the conservation and preservation of the state's ancient cultural heritage.

He further said the Haryana Government has formulated the State Art and Culture Policy, ‘Kalash’, to safeguard, conserve, promote and encourage the state's artistic and cultural traditions.

Reiterating the government's commitment to preserving India's cultural legacy for future generations, the Chief Minister referred to the International Gita Jayanti Mahotsav organised at Kurukshetra as another major initiative in this direction.

He said the government is working to build a modern Haryana while protecting and drawing inspiration from its historical and cultural heritage.

Rakhigarhi Mahotsav, he added, is an important part of this endeavour and will help bring the state's archaeological legacy closer to people from all sections of society.

The Chief Minister urged visitors to leave theMahotsav with a renewed commitment to understanding their roots, preserving their heritage and using the lessons of the past to build a better future.

*Collective Efforts Underway to Give Rakhigarhi International Recognition- Dr. Arvind Sharma*

Haryana Heritage and Tourism Minister Dr. Arvind Kumar Sharma said coordinated efforts are being made to establish Rakhigarhi as an internationally recognised heritage destination and attract tourists from abroad.

He said greater tourist interest would stimulate economic activity in the region and create new opportunities for local development and employment.

Highlighting the significance of archaeological discoveries at Rakhigarhi, the Minister said the excavated remains offer valuable insights into the lifestyle, technological knowledge and social practices of ancient communities.

The findings indicate that people of the period had developed systems for drainage, access to clean drinking water, agriculture and transportation using bullock carts, he said.

Artefacts made from clay also demonstrate the craftsmanship and creativity of artisans of that era.

Dr. Arvind Sharma said Rakhigarhi Mahotsav provides an opportunity for people, particularly young students, to gain first-hand exposure to their historical and cultural heritage.

Short courses and training-related activities have also been organised during theMahotsav to encourage learning and skill development among youth.

The Minister said that Prime Minister Sh. Narendra Modi has also highlighted the significance of Rakhigarhi, and efforts are underway to develop it as an iconic archaeological site.

Under the leadership of Chief Minister Sh. Nayab Singh Saini, he added, initiatives to enhance Rakhigarhi's national and international recognition are being taken forward.

*Rakhigarhi Mahotsav Connecting Youth with Their Cultural Roots- Dr. Amit Agrawal*

Commissioner and Secretary, Heritage and Tourism Department, Dr. Amit Agrawal welcomed Chief Minister Sh. Nayab Singh Saini to Rakhigarhi and expressed gratitude for his continued guidance in promoting the state's archaeological and cultural heritage.

He said Rakhigarhi Mahotsav, initiated under the Chief Minister's guidance, has now entered its third edition.

The Mahotsav is being organised with a particular focus on involving students from nearby schools and colleges, enabling younger generations to understand and appreciate the region's ancient civilisation and cultural traditions.

Dr. Agrawal also welcomed Heritage and Tourism Minister Dr. Arvind Sharma acknowledged his leadership in taking the department's initiatives forward.

He said the seven-day Mahotsav would contribute to achieving the objectives set under the Chief Minister's guidance.

Highlighting the department's plans, Dr. Agrawal said efforts are underway to establish Rakhigarhi among the country's leading archaeological destinations.

Proposals are being pursued to develop an open museum and a site museum at Rakhigarhi. The structural work of the site museum has been completed, and the department aims to make it operational before the next edition of the Mahotsav .

He said greater awareness and promotion of Rakhigarhi would attract tourists from India and abroad, bringing international attention to the rich heritage of the Harappan-Sindhu civilization while creating new employment opportunities for local communities.

Describing Rakhigarhi Mahotsav as a matter of immense pride for Hansi district, Dr. Agrawal said the Mahotsav would further strengthen the region's cultural identity and tourism potential.

MLAs Sh. Vinod Bhayana and Sh. Ram Kumar Gautam, Smt. Savitri Jindal, Sh. Randhir Panihar, Director, Archaeology and Museums Department, Sh. Amit Khatri, Deputy Commissioner, Sh. Rahul Narwal, former Minister, Capt. Abhimanyu, Media Coordinator, Sh. Ashok Chhabra, and other dignitaries were present on the occasion.

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*Haryana places two HCS officers at Chandigarh Administration’s disposal*

Chandigarh, October 19: The Haryana government has placed the services of two Haryana Civil Service (HCS) officers, Gaurav Kumar and Pradeep Ahlawat-I, at the disposal of the Chandigarh Administration with immediate effect, according to an order issued by Chief Secretary Anurag Rastogi.

Gaurav Kumar, a 2011-batch HCS officer, is serving as Secretary, State Election Commission, Haryana. Pradeep Ahlawat-I, a 2013-batch officer, is Additional Director (Administration), Town and Country Planning, Haryana.

The terms and conditions of their appointment will be issued separately, the order said.

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*Mukhyamantri Doodh Uphaar Yojana Strengthens Nutritional Status of Children* and Mothers in Haryana*

*Significant decline in underweight and stunting among children*

Chandigarh, October 19: Under the leadership of Haryana Chief Minister Sh. Nayab Singh Saini, the state government is committed to improving the nutritional status and overall health of children and mothers. In this direction, the Mukhyamantri Doodh Uphaar Yojana (MMDUY), successfully implemented since August 2020, has emerged as an important initiative in the fight against malnutrition and anaemia in the state.

Sharing details of the scheme, a government spokesperson said that the ambitious initiative, being implemented by the Women and Child Development Department, Haryana, aims to provide quality nutrition to children aged one to six years, pregnant women and lactating mothers. Under the scheme, nutritional products are distributed twice a week through Anganwadi centres across the state.

Elaborating on the nutritional products provided under the scheme, the spokesperson said that beneficiaries receive 200 ml of fortified skimmed milk enriched with essential micronutrients such as Vitamins A and D2, 45 grams of micronutrient-rich instant kheer mix and a 30-gram protein milk bar. These products help meet the daily protein and calorie requirements of children.

The spokesperson further stated that the implementation of the scheme has contributed to a significant decline in underweight and stunting among children and has helped strengthen efforts to prevent malnutrition and anaemia. The distribution of nutritious food products has also helped improve children's attendance at Anganwadi centres.

The Haryana Government is committed to ensuring the holistic health and development of every child and mother in the state by realising the vision of "Better Nutrition, Healthy Childhood, Empowered Haryana."

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Chief Minister Chairs HPPC and High Power Works Purchase Committee Meetings

Key Procurement and Development Proposals Approved to Strengthen Infrastructure and Public Services Across Haryana

Chief Minister Directs Officers to Ensure Timely Completion of Projects, Maintain Quality and Uphold Transparency

Chandigarh, October 19- Haryana Chief Minister Sh. Nayab Singh Saini on Monday chaired meetings of the High Powered Purchase Committee (HPPC) and the High Power Works Purchase Committee at Haryana Niwas in Chandigarh. During the meetings, proposals relating to procurement and development works across various departments were approved. The decisions are aimed at strengthening infrastructure and improving public services across the state.

Transport Minister Sh. Anil Vij, Education Minister Sh. Mahipal Dhanda, Cooperation Minister Dr. Arvind Sharma, Agriculture and Farmers' Welfare Minister Sh. Shyam Singh Rana, Chief Principal Secretary to Chief Minister Sh. Rajesh Khullar, Additional Chief Secretary, Finance and Planning Department, Sh. Sudhir Rajpal, Deputy Principal Secretary to Chief Minister Dr. Yashpal, and senior officers of the departments concerned attended the meetings.

**Major Proposals for Power, Water Supply, Roads and Other Infrastructure Projects Approved**

The committees approved proposals from various departments, including Transport, Power, Education, Environment, Cooperation, Urban Development, Public Health Engineering, Public Works, and Irrigation and Water Resources. These covered the modernisation of power distribution systems, smart grid projects, water supply and sewerage facilities, stormwater drainage systems, road improvements, construction of educational institutions and enhancement of storage capacity.

To strengthen the power distribution network, approval was granted for the upgradation and modernisation of 11 kV feeders in various areas, construction of new substations and implementation of advanced technologies such as SCADA and DMS/OMS. These measures are expected to enhance the reliability and efficiency of electricity supply.

The committees also approved a proposal to establish air quality monitoring stations in Haryana's National Capital Region (NCR) districts as part of the state's efforts to strengthen environmental protection.

**Chief Minister Calls for Strict Adherence to Quality Standards, Transparency and Financial Discipline**

Chief Minister directed officers to ensure that all development projects are completed within the stipulated timelines while strictly adhering to prescribed quality standards. He emphasised the need for strict compliance with technical specifications in construction works and regular monitoring of project implementation.

The Chief Minister further directed officers to undertake periodic reviews of project progress and fix accountability wherever negligence is found.

Emphasising transparency and financial discipline, the Chief Minister said that all government procurement and construction works must be carried out through transparent procedures, with strict adherence to financial norms. He stressed that public funds must be utilised judiciously, with public welfare accorded the highest priority, and made it clear that no compromise on quality would be tolerated.

The Chief Minister also directed all departments to work in close coordination and ensure optimal utilisation of available resources.