*CM Bhagwant Singh Mann Announces Diwali Gift For Punjab Govt Employees & Pensioners; Increases Dearness Allowance By 3%*

*Employees Will Receive Enhanced DA Along With December Salaries & Pensions: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*

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*Centre’s Agencies Raiding AAP Leaders At BJP’s Direction, But Finding Nothing: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*

*BJP & Its Agencies Can Conduct As Many Raids As They Want, We'll Not Stop Working For People Of Punjab: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*

*BJP’s Raids & Intimidation Cannot Stop AAP: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*

*Union Govt Should Focus On People, Not Political Vendetta: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*

*Rahul Gandhi Free To Hold Rallies, Democratic Rights Must Be Respected: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*

*AAP Govt Transforming Punjab Through Better Schools, Healthcare And Sports Facilities: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*

*50 Buses Taking 2,000 Devotees On Pilgrimage Every Day: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*

*Political Opponents Can Hatch Conspiracies, But Our Focus Will Remain On Development & Public Welfare: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*

CHANDIGARH, 4th November 2026:Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann on Wednesday tore into the BJP-led Union Government over repeated raids by central agencies against AAP leaders, asserting that the BJP and its agencies could conduct as many raids as they wanted, but nothing would deter the AAP government from working relentlessly for the people of Punjab. Reacting to the raids at the residence of AAP MLA Dr Amandeep Kaur, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said that central agencies were being directed by the BJP to target opposition leaders and suppress dissent, but would find nothing against AAP leaders who had been serving people with honesty and dedication.

The Chief Minister asserted that intimidation, political vendetta and conspiracies would neither weaken the AAP nor derail Punjab’s development agenda, adding that the Union Government should focus on addressing people’s concerns rather than misusing investigative agencies to settle political scores.

During a press conference, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “The BJP-led Union Government is using central investigative agencies as political weapons to intimidate opposition leaders and silence those questioning its policies. These agencies are free to conduct raids at the behest of their political masters, but they will find nothing against AAP leaders who have been working honestly and discharging their responsibilities with dedication.”

The Chief Minister asserted, “Such tactics will neither frighten the Aam Aadmi Party nor weaken our commitment to serving the people of Punjab. The people of Punjab have given us a mandate for change and development, and no amount of political intimidation can derail this mission.”

Calling out the BJP-led Union Government, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “Instead of using investigative agencies to settle political scores, the Union Government should focus on addressing the concerns of the people. Political conspiracies and pressure tactics cannot distract us from fulfilling the promises made to Punjabis.”

Responding to a question regarding political rallies, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “Rahul Gandhi and every other political leader are free to organise rallies and exercise their democratic rights. Democracy thrives on the freedom to express opinions and participate in political activities, and everyone has the constitutional right to do so.”

On another query, the Chief Minister said, “Merely becoming an MLA is not enough. Elected representatives also have a responsibility to stand firmly with their party, uphold its principles and actively contribute to organisational activities. Political responsibility does not end with winning an election.”

Highlighting the achievements of the AAP Government, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “Our government has brought a major transformation in public service delivery through Aam Aadmi Clinics, improved government schools and the development of more than 2,000 playgrounds across Punjab. We are working continuously to provide better healthcare, quality education and modern infrastructure to the people.”

The Chief Minister further said, “Our government has undertaken the cleaning of drains through the Seechewal Model and restored canal-water facilities in areas that had remained deprived of this lifeline for decades. These initiatives demonstrate our commitment to addressing long-pending problems and ensuring that the benefits of development reach every corner of Punjab.”

*Farmers Receiving Electricity During Morning Hours, Bringing Major Relief*

Underscoring the government’s commitment to the farming community, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “Farmers in Punjab are now receiving electricity during morning hours, providing them much-needed relief. Our government understands the difficulties faced by farmers and is making every possible effort to improve agricultural facilities and ensure that they do not face unnecessary hardships.”

*Nearly 2,000 Devotees Visiting Religious Destinations Daily Under Mukh Mantri Tirath Yatra Yojna*

Reaffirming the government’s commitment to promoting religious tourism and facilitating pilgrimages, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “Under the Mukh Mantri Tirath Yatra Yojana, around 50 buses are operating daily, enabling nearly 2,000 devotees to visit religious destinations within and outside Punjab.”

The Chief Minister added, “Our government is committed to ensuring that people from every section of society can undertake religious pilgrimages with dignity and convenience. The initiative is aimed at facilitating devotees who wish to visit sacred places and strengthening religious tourism across the state.”

*Punjab’s Passion For Hockey On Full Display At Asian Champions Trophy*

Referring to the ongoing Asian Champions Trophy, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann invited sports enthusiasts to witness the high-voltage semi-final clash between India and Korea.

The Chief Minister said, “The overwhelming public response to the tournament and the presence of international hockey legends have once again demonstrated Punjab’s unmatched passion for hockey. Punjab has a rich sporting heritage, and our government is committed to strengthening this legacy through world-class sporting infrastructure and initiatives to encourage sports.”

He further said, “Punjab’s sporting heritage, combined with modern infrastructure and government support, is positioning the state as a leading sporting destination. We want our youth to excel in sports and bring glory to Punjab at national and international levels.”

*Will Never Hide Behind Empty Coffers To Escape Responsibilities Towards Punjabis*

Categorically rejecting the excuse of financial constraints in fulfilling public commitments, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “Our government will never hide behind the excuse of empty government coffers to avoid its responsibilities towards the people. Public welfare remains our foremost priority, and we will make every possible effort to fulfil the aspirations of employees, farmers, youth and every section of society.”

The Chief Minister asserted, “The people of Punjab have entrusted us with the responsibility of improving their lives, and we are determined to honour that trust. Our government will continue taking decisions in the larger public interest without shirking its responsibilities.”

Taking strong exception to statements aimed at tarnishing Punjab’s reputation, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann slammed those attempting to malign the image of the state and its people by distorting facts.

He said, “Punjab and its people deserve respect, and attempts to malign their image through distorted facts are unacceptable. Our government remains committed to protecting the interests and dignity of Punjabis.”

*Announcement Of 40 Candidates Part Of Ongoing Organisational Process*

Responding to a query regarding the announcement of candidates, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “The announcement of 40 candidates is part of an ongoing organisational process, and the remaining names will be announced in due course.”

Reiterating the AAP Government’s unwavering commitment to Punjab’s progress, the Chief Minister asserted, “Our government will continue its relentless efforts to improve the quality of life of every Punjabi. Political opponents can resort to conspiracies and central agencies can be used to create pressure, but our focus will remain firmly on development, public welfare and delivering on our promises.”

CM Bhagwant Singh Mann concluded, “The people of Punjab have given us a mandate to bring change, and we will continue working with honesty, dedication and determination to fulfil their aspirations. No political pressure or conspiracy can weaken our resolve to build a progressive and prosperous Punjab.”

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*SPEAKER SANDHWAN DISTRIBUTES PROPRIETARY RIGHTS TO RESIDENTS OF VILLAGE HARI NAU UNDER ‘MERA GHAR MERE NAAM’ SCHEME OF PUNJAB GOVERNMENT*

Chandigarh, 4 November 2026:Punjab Legislative Assembly Speaker Sardar Kultar Singh Sandhwan today handed over ownership rights of homes to the residents of village Hari Nau , tehsil Kotkapura, District Faridkot under the Punjab Government's flagship ‘Mera Ghar Mere Naam’ scheme.

During the event, Speaker Sandhwan highlighted the government's commitment to giving clear property ownership to people living within the 'Lal Lakir/Lal Dora' (village boundaries). He noted that this scheme provides legal recognition to long-term residents, helping them secure their property rights, reduce land disputes, and can easily access bank loans.

District administration officials, local leaders, and village residents attended the event. The beneficiaries expressed their gratitude to the Punjab government for securing their assets and fulfilling a long-standing demand.

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*VIGIL AGAINST FOOD ADULTERATION AMID FESTIVE SEASON: 110-QTLs UNSAFE FOOD PRODUCTS SEIZED, 50-QTLs UNSAFE MILK PRODUCTS DESTROYED IN PUNJAB*

*— PUNJAB FOOD SAFETY DEPARTMENT INTENSIFIES STATEWIDE VIGIL AGAINST FOOD ADULTERATION AMID FESTIVE SEASON*

*— OVER 1,950 FOOD SAMPLES COLLECTED ACROSS PUNJAB; 51 SAMPLES DECLARED UNSAFE*

*— "ZERO TOLERANCE TOWARDS ADULTERATION; STRICT LEGAL ACTION TO BE TAKEN AGAINST DEFAULTERS": DR BALBIR SINGH*

Chandigarh, November 4: With the onset of the festive season, the Food Safety Department of Punjab has mounted an intensive statewide surveillance and enforcement blitz to curb food adulteration and guarantee the availability of safe, wholesome, and pure food products to consumers across the state.

Acting on the strict directions of Punjab Health and Family Welfare Minister Dr Balbir Singh and Principal Secretary Health & Family Welfare Kumar Rahul, special enforcement teams have been carrying out round-the-clock field inspections at manufacturing units, wholesale mandis, sweet shops, dairies, restaurants, and retail establishments across all 23 districts.

Highlighting the state government's resolute stance, Dr Balbir Singh asserted that the Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann-led Punjab Government has adopted a strict zero-tolerance policy against those playing with public health for petty commercial gains. "Festivals are a time of joy and celebration, and ensuring unadulterated, nutritious food for every household is our foremost priority. Anyone indulging in adulteration, spurious manufacturing, or substandard food supply will face stringent legal action under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006," the Health Minister warned.

Divulging details of the ongoing drive, the Health Minister shared that over the last one month, the Food Safety Department has targeted high-risk festive commodities, including desi ghee, milk, paneer, khoa, traditional sweets, edible oils, vanaspati, and spices. During these coordinated raids, the department has seized a massive quantity of over 11 tons of suspected unsafe food products including Desi Ghee, Paneer, Khoa, Sweets, Edible Oil and Vanaspati. Furthermore, approximately 5 tons of adulterated milk products and sweets found completely unfit for human consumption were promptly destroyed in accordance with statutory procedures, preventing them from entering the consumer market.

Under the statewide festive campaign, the department has collected a total of 1,950 food samples for laboratory examination. In a targeted drive focused specifically on checking the purity of paneer and khoa, 437 samples of milk and dairy derivatives were drawn and analysed. Of these, 218 samples failed to meet prescribed regulatory standards, including 51 samples that were formally declared unsafe and adulterated. Appropriate legal proceedings have been initiated against all defaulting Food Business Operators (FBOs) under the law.

Meanwhile, Commissioner, Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Punjab Kanwal Preet Brar stated that Food Safety Officers have been directed to maintain rigorous surveillance on food units and send all suspected articles directly to the State Food and Drug Laboratory at Kharar for expedited testing. Special emphasis is being laid on maintaining personal hygiene, sanitary kitchen conditions, quality of raw ingredients, and proper storage standards, she said.

The FDA Commissioner appealed to all food business operators, confectioners, and sweet manufacturers to maintain the highest benchmarks of quality and hygiene during the festive rush. She also urged consumers to remain vigilant, report suspicious practices, and purchase food items only from registered and licensed food establishments.

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*MANN GOVT PUMPS ₹1,325 CRORE INTO CRM MACHINERY OVER 4 YEARS, PUTS 94,456 MACHINES IN FIELDS*

*• Over 22K CRM machines procured for 2026-27 with ₹201 crore subsidy, 73% jump over last year, says Khudian*

Chandigarh, November 4:In a decisive push to curb stubble burning, the Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann-led Punjab government has pumped a whopping Rs 1325.35 crore into farm machinery in just four years, putting 94,456 Crop Residue Management (CRM) machines into the fields and driving farm fires down by a massive 90%, from 49,922 cases in 2022 to just 5,114 in 2025.

Revealing the over four-year data, Punjab Agriculture and Farmers Welfare Minister S. Gurmeet Singh Khudian said the government is not slowing down, with farmers already procuring 22,763 CRM machines for the 2026-27 cycle with nearly Rs 201 crore in subsidy, ensuring Punjab is battle-ready well in time. This marks a massive 73% increase compared to the 13,147 machines supplied during the entire previous year.

“Under the visionary leadership of CM Mann, we have ensured that no farmer is held back by financial constraints from adopting eco-friendly farm practices,” S. Khudian said, while adding that an investment of over Rs 1325 crore and more than 94000 CRM machines since 2022-23 shows our unwavering commitment to restore Punjab’s soil fertility and clean air.

Providing a year-wise breakdown of the drive, the Agriculture Minister said that a subsidy of Rs 279.96 crore was disbursed in 2022-23 for 27,250 machines, Rs 168.88 crore in 2023-24 for 13,179 machines, Rs 259.81 crore in 2024-25 for 18,117 machines and Rs 415.7 crore in 2025-26 for 13,147 machines.

Reiterating the Punjab government's zero-tolerance policy towards stubble burning, the Agriculture Minister appealed farmers to make optimum use of the subsidised machinery to protect the environment and public health. He said the early procurement of over 22,000 machines for the 2026-27 cycle ensures Punjab is fully prepared well in time, while enabling farmers to manage paddy straw scientifically without burning.

Emphasising the government's pro-farmer approach, S. Gurmeet Singh Khudian said 75% of Custom Hiring Centre (CHC) funds have been earmarked for Primary Agricultural Cooperative Societies (PACS) to empower small and marginal farmers, while Rs 6 crore has been allocated for bio-decomposer application under a massive IEC campaign.

S. Gurmeet Singh Khudian said this targeted allocation ensures economically weaker farmers can easily access machinery for in-situ and ex-situ management. The impact is clear as 3,247 machines have been provided to 846 PACS this year, a staggering surge over 1,262 machines to 300 PACS last year.

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*Bhagwant Mann Govt To Organise 3-Day Grand Celebrations At Sri Khuralgarh Sahib For 650th Parkash Purab Of Sri Guru Ravidass Ji Maharaj: Harpal Singh Cheema*

*Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema Reviews Elaborate Arrangements For December 4-6 Celebrations At Sri Khuralgarh Sahib*

*Four Shobha Yatras To Converge At Sri Khuralgarh Sahib On December 3, Bringing Devotees Together From Across The Country: Harpal Singh Cheema*

*Bhagwant Mann Govt Committed To Taking Guru Ji Maharaj's Philosophy Of Equality, Human Dignity And Brotherhood To Every Household: Harpal Singh Cheema*

*All Departments Directed To Ensure Elaborate Arrangements For Devotees, With Special Focus On Elderly, Women And Children: Harpal Singh Cheema*

*Harpal Singh Cheema Holds Preparatory Meeting With Senior Officers To Ensure Seamless Arrangements For Devotees*

CHANDIGARH, 4th November 2026:Reaffirming the Bhagwant Mann Government’s commitment to commemorating the 650th Parkash Purab of Sri Guru Ravidass Ji Maharaj with unprecedented religious fervour and devotion, Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema today convened another high-level meeting with senior officers to review and further strengthen preparations for the grand three-day celebrations at Sri Khuralgarh Sahib, the sacred land associated with the revered Guru Ji Maharaj.

Giving central importance to the historic religious congregation at Sri Khuralgarh Sahib, Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema said, “The three-day programme, scheduled from December 4 to 6, will be the main highlight of the extensive commemorative events being organised by the Bhagwant Mann Government. Our endeavour is to ensure that devotees arriving from Punjab and across the country experience a well-organised, spiritually enriching and memorable celebration.”

During the meeting, the Finance Minister held detailed discussions with officers regarding arrangements for the main congregation, religious ceremonies, infrastructure, cleanliness, sanitation, transportation, traffic management, security, healthcare, drinking water and other essential facilities for the convenience of devotees.

Highlighting the significance of Sri Khuralgarh Sahib in the life and spiritual legacy of Sri Guru Ravidass Ji Maharaj, Minister Harpal Singh Cheema said, “The three-day celebrations at Sri Khuralgarh Sahib will be the centrepiece of the 650th Parkash Purab commemorations. Our endeavour is to make this historic occasion a befitting tribute to Guru Sahib’s timeless philosophy of equality, human dignity, social harmony and universal brotherhood.”

The Finance Minister further said, “The four major Shobha Yatras being organised as part of the celebrations will converge at Sri Khuralgarh Sahib on December 3, bringing devotees together from different parts of the country ahead of the main religious programme.”

He said, “These Shobha Yatras will serve as a powerful medium to spread the universal message and sacred teachings of Sri Guru Ravidass Ji Maharaj, while creating an atmosphere of devotion, unity and collective participation in the run-up to the historic occasion.”

Elaborating on the religious programme, Minister Harpal Singh Cheema said, “The Arambh of Sri Akhand Path Sahib will take place on December 4, followed by the Bhog ceremony on December 6, marking the culmination of the three-day celebrations at Sri Khuralgarh Sahib.”

The Minister directed the officers concerned to work in close coordination and ensure that all arrangements are completed well in advance. He stressed that special attention must be given to the comfort and convenience of the sangat, particularly the elderly, women and children visiting the holy site.

Reiterating the vision of CM Bhagwant Singh Mann, Cheema said, “The Punjab Government is committed to taking the life, philosophy and teachings of Sri Guru Ravidass Ji Maharaj to every household through religious, cultural and educational initiatives.”

He added, “These celebrations will not merely be a religious gathering but also an occasion to reaffirm the values of equality, compassion, social justice and brotherhood propagated by Guru Ji Maharaj.”

The Finance Minister called upon all departments to discharge their responsibilities with utmost dedication and ensure that the historic 650th Parkash Purab is celebrated with the dignity, grandeur and spiritual fervour befitting the revered legacy of Sri Guru Ravidass Ji Maharaj.

The meeting was attended by Advisor to the Tourism and Cultural Affairs Department Deepak Bali, Administrative Secretary Kumar Amit, Director Sanjeev Kumar Tiwari, Deputy Secretary Public Relations Deepankar Garg and several other officers.

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*Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema Meets PCS Officers’ Association; Directs Officers’ Committee To Expedite Report On Key Cadre Issues*

*PCS Officers’ Cadre-Related Issues & Pending Demands To Be Resolved On Priority: Harpal Singh Cheema*

*Finance Minister Directs Officers’ Committee To Examine Memorandum & Submit Comprehensive Report At The Earliest*

*Minister Harpal Singh Cheema Assures PCS Officers of Time-Bound Resolution, Pay Parity, DACP & Promotion Reforms to be Examined*

CHANDIGARH, 4th November 2026:Finance Minister Advocate Harpal Singh Cheema today held a high-level meeting with representatives of the Punjab Civil Services (Executive Branch) Officers’ Association to discuss their longstanding cadre-related issues and pending demands. After detailed deliberations on the memorandum submitted by the Association, the Finance Minister directed the Officers’ Committee to thoroughly examine the representations and submit a comprehensive report at the earliest to facilitate their time-bound resolution.

During the meeting, the PCS Officers’ Association submitted a formal memorandum highlighting several important financial and administrative issues affecting the cadre. Among its key financial demands was the restoration of the entry-level pay scale to ₹56,100 to reinstate historical parity with IAS and PCS (Judicial) officers and address the existing anomaly that has reduced it to Level 9.

The Association also sought withdrawal of instructions restricting initial appointments during probation to basic pay without allowances, along with retrospective arrears for the affected batches. It further pressed for restoration of the Dynamic Assured Career Progression (DACP) scheme to address chronic stagnation in the cadre, besides the immediate release of pending 6th Punjab Pay Commission dues and Dearness Allowance (DA) arrears.

On cadre management and promotional avenues, the delegation urged the state government to establish a streamlined mechanism for the timely elevation of PCS officers to the IAS cadre and introduce a consistent annual recruitment calendar to prevent the accumulation of promotion backlogs.

The memorandum also highlighted the need to regulate optional appointments to the IAS from Non-State Civil Services officers to safeguard the promotional avenues of the PCS cadre. The Association further sought appropriate deployment of PCS officers against earmarked departmental and Head of Department posts, along with the prompt issuance of notifications regarding the approved reduction in qualifying service years for internal promotions.

The Association also emphasised the need for adequate representation of senior PCS officers in the committee currently reviewing the PCS (EB) Service Rules to ensure that the broader interests of the cadre are duly protected.

Reaffirming the state government’s commitment to an efficient and motivated bureaucracy, Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema assured the delegation that the legitimate administrative and financial grievances of the cadre would be considered sympathetically and addressed promptly.

The meeting was attended by Special Secretary Finance Showkat Ahmad Parray, Special Secretary Personnel Upkar Singh, and PCS Officers’ Association members Sakatar Singh Bal, Sukhpreet Sidhu, Harjeet Singh Sidhu, Avikesh Gupta, Vikas Hira, Jagdeep Sehgal, Deepankar Garg and Rishab Bansal.

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*Finance & Transport Minister Harpal Singh Cheema Directs Early Resolution Of PUNBUS Workers’ Issues*

*Punjab Govt Committed To Resolving All Legitimate Demands Of Transport Workers: Harpal Singh Cheema*

CHANDIGARH, 4th November 2026:Reaffirming the Punjab Government’s commitment to safeguarding the interests of the transport workforce, Finance and Transport Minister Advocate Harpal Singh Cheema today held a meeting with the Punjab Roadways (PUNBUS) State Transport Workers Union to discuss their longstanding demands and service-related concerns. Taking serious note of the issues raised by the union representatives, the Minister directed the Transport Department to ensure the early resolution of all legitimate demands.

During the meeting, Minister Harpal Singh Cheema instructed the Transport Department to take prompt action towards resolving the legitimate concerns of the transport workers. He emphasised that issues requiring legal examination must also be addressed through a dedicated mechanism to ensure their proper resolution.

For complex service-related matters requiring legal evaluation, the Minister directed the department to convene a dedicated meeting with the office of the Advocate General (AG) to thoroughly examine the specific cases and work towards their resolution.

The transport workers’ key demands and concerns were formally presented during the meeting by State President Harminder Singh, State General Secretary Lakhwinder Singh and Senior Vice President Bachitter Singh, representing the PUNBUS State Transport Workers Union.

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*Punjab Government Extends Support to 10th Military Literature Festival, to be Held from November 13 to 15: Mohinder Bhagat*

*'A Decade of Serving the Youth of Punjab and India' to be the central theme of the three-day festival*

*Festival to showcase India's military heritage, valour and sacrifices through panel discussions, theatre presentations and exhibitions*

Chandigarh, November 4:Defence Services Welfare Minister Mohinder Bhagat today presided over a meeting of the Department of Defence Services Welfare to review preparations and arrangements for the 10th Military Literature Festival, scheduled to be held from November 13 to 15, 2026, at the Lake Club, Sector 5, Chandigarh.

During the meeting, the Minister also reviewed the ongoing status of issues concerning ex-servicemen and directed the officers concerned to ensure timely action on matters related to their welfare.

The Minister said that the Punjab Government is extending its support to the prestigious festival, which is being organised in association with the Chandigarh Administration, Headquarters Western Command and other participating organisations.

He said that the festival has emerged as an important platform for showcasing India's rich military heritage, the valour of its armed forces and the supreme sacrifices made by soldiers in the service of the nation. Being organised under the theme 'A Decade of Serving the Youth of Punjab and India', the 10th edition of the festival will feature a series of informative, educational and engaging activities. The festival will remain open to the public from 9 AM to 6 PM,

The Minister said that the festival aims to connect the younger generation with the country's military history and inspire them through stories of courage, patriotism, leadership and sacrifice.

He expressed confidence that the 10th Military Literature Festival would attract students, youth, ex-servicemen, defence enthusiasts and members of the general public in large numbers.

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*AMAN ARORA LAUNCHES PUNJAB INVESTOR CIRCLE 2.0; DISBURSES ₹1.17 CRORE SEED GRANT TO 28 STARTUPS*

*•Punjab's startup count jumps from 36 to 404 in 5 years: Aman Arora*

*•₹6.8 crore disbursed to 222 startups, seed grant up to Rs 15 lakh under new Startup Policy 2026, says Industries Minister*

*• Startup Punjab signs MoU with Zoho Corporation; eligible startups to get ₹1.86 lakh wallet credits to scale operations*

*•10 Startups Showcase Cutting-Edge Technologies Before Investors*

CHANDIGARH, November 4:In a major push to Punjab’s innovation-led growth, Industries & Commerce Minister Mr. Aman Arora on Wednesday launched the 2nd edition of Punjab Investor Circle within four months of its debut, while disbursing Rs 1.17 crore in seed grants to 28 startups to accelerate the state’s startup ecosystem.

While addressing an impressive gathering here at a hotel, Mr. Aman Arora stated, “Punjab is now home to hundreds startups in IT services, healthcare & life sciences, agriculture, food & beverages and education- with 50% led by women directors. In July we started this platform at INST Mohali, and within four months we are back with the second edition. This is not just an event, it is our commitment to build a regular bridge between our startups and capital.”

Congratulating the entrepreneurs, the Industries Minister said Punjab's startup ecosystem has grown from just 36 startups in 2021-22 to 404 in 2026, with Rs 6.80 crore seed funding disbursed to 222 startups. Recognised as a Top Performer in SRF 4.0 and 5.0, the state has further strengthened its framework through Punjab Startup Policy 2026, offering seed grants up to Rs 15 lakh in two tranches, interest and lease rental subsidies, and purchase preference in government procurement. With 350+ outreach activities, the Punjab Investor Circle and Startup Punjab Hub – Neuron 2.0, the state has built robust funding, incubation and industry linkages.

He emphasised that Punjab’s youth possess immense entrepreneurial potential and the Government is focused on providing them financial support, institutional assistance, mentorship and market access to transform innovative ideas into successful enterprises.

“Punjab’s strong industrial base, skilled workforce, premier educational and research institutions and progressive investor facilitation framework provide a conducive environment for startups to innovate, scale and compete nationally and globally,” the Industries Minister said.

Addressing the founders who pitched at the event, Mr. Aman Arora said, “Do not think small. Think big. Aim to become global companies and unicorns. When you succeed, you represent Punjab, carry our identity, and act as brand ambassadors of the state.”

A major highlight of the Punjab Investor Circle was the Investor Pitching Session, where 10 promising startups presented their innovative business models and technologies before investors and an expert jury.The session provided startups with an opportunity to engage directly with potential investors, explore funding partnerships, receive expert feedback and strengthen their investment readiness for future growth.

These startups showcased cutting-edge innovations across artificial intelligence, robotics, advanced materials, biotechnology, healthtech, sustainable technologies, smart manufacturing, next-generation ed-tech and agri-biotech — reflecting Punjab’s growing strength in deep-tech research, technology commercialisation and scalable solutions for emerging industrial and societal needs.

An Innovation Exhibition organised alongside further showcased the diversity and technological capabilities of Punjab’s emerging enterprises, with exhibitors displaying innovations across advanced materials and smart textiles, sustainable manufacturing, food and agri-tech, nutrition science, AI-powered ed-tech, robotics and interactive learning solutions.

Meanwhile, Startup Punjab signed an MoU with Zoho Corporation under its Zoho for Startups programme. Under this collaboration, eligible registered startups will receive pro-bono Zoho Wallet Credits of up to Rs 1.86 lakh to access digital business solutions, streamline operations and strengthen their capabilities. The event also highlighted Punjab’s expanding support infrastructure, comprising over 25 recognised incubators and accelerators, a strong mentor network and collaborations with premier institutions including IIT Ropar, IISER Mohali, ISB Mohali, Plaksha University, PAU, GADVASU and Thapar Institute.

Administrative Secretary, Industries & Commerce, Dr. Basant Garg said the Punjab Investor Circle — conceptualised under Startup Punjab’s Investor Connect Initiative — is a sustained platform to connect innovative startups with investors, industry leaders and funding institutions. Building on its inaugural edition in July 2026 at INST Mohali, the second edition has further strengthened the interface between Punjab’s entrepreneurial talent and the investment community.

The initiative reflects Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann’s vision to promote youth-led entrepreneurship, accelerate technology-driven growth, foster innovation and create new employment opportunities across Punjab, he said, while adding that the engagements among startups, investors and industry stakeholders reaffirm the Government’s commitment to building a vibrant, investment-ready and globally competitive startup ecosystem.

Director Industries & Commerce Mr. Jaspreet Singh, MD Punjab Financial Corporation Ms. Senu Duggal and senior officials of the department also attended the event.

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*Hero Asian Champions Trophy 2026*

*India storms into final with a loud bang*

*Annihilates South Korea in Semifinal by 8-1*

*Olympian Balbir Singh Senior International Hockey Stadium emerges on global sports map with hosting of first international match*

*India - Japan to clash for title*

*Japan beats Malaysia 5-3 in penalty shootout*

*Malaysia to face South Korea in Bronze medal match*

Mohali, November 4:In what can be termed as the repeat of the league Phase clash, India today crushed South Korea by 8-1 thus again displaying its sheer dominance in a one side semifinal encounter.

The Olympian Balbir Singh Senior International Hockey Stadium here became a proud witness to the par excellence stickwork of team India.

It was the first time the stadium hosted an International match thus gaining a place of pride on the world sports map.

The dignitaries present on the occasion and who applauded Team India's win included Finance Minister, Punjab, Harpal Singh Cheema, Health and Family Welfare Minister Dr. Balbir Singh, MP from Sangrur Gurmeet Singh Meet Hayer, MLA Mohali Kulwant Singh, World Cup Hockey winning Captain Ajitpal Singh, Aslam Sher Khan, Zafar Iqbal, Olympian Balbir Singh Randhawa, Rajinder Singh Senior, Rani Rampal, Sardar Singh, Baljjt Singh Dhillon, Rajpal Singh, Prabhjyot Singh, Deepak Thakur, Grandson of legendary Hockey player Late Balbir Singh Senior - Kabir Singh.

Now, India would meet Japan in the final to be held on November 5th at the same venue.

Dashing Shilanand Lakra opened India's account by scoring a Field goal in the 4th minute itself. But the Koreans didn't waited too long and equalized in the 9th minute through a Field goal by Sangjun Han. After that it was a goal spree by the Indian players. Captain Harmanpreet Singh converted a penalty corner in the 9th minute, Shilanand Lakra also scored through a penalty corner in the 13th minute, Sukhjeet Singh and Dilpreet Singh scored in the same minute i.e. the 21st. Both scored Field goals. Just four minutes later in the 25th minute Dilpreet Singh again scored a Field goal making the score 6-1. Then in the 36th minute Angad Bir Singh netted a Field goal taking score to 7-1. The 8th goal was netted by Vivek Sagar Prasad in the 54th minute taking the score to 8-1. It was a field goal.

In another Semifinal which went down to the wire, both Japan and Malaysia played their hearts out but remained goalless at the end of full time. In the Penalty Shootout, Japan trumped Malaysia 5-3.

For Japan, the goalscorers were Kazumasa Matsumoto, Ryoma Ooka, Tsubasa Tanaka, Haruki Ochiai, & Seren Tanaka.

Aiman Rozemi, Shello Silverious and Abu Kamal Azrai scored for Malaysia.

Earlier, China bruised Bangladesh 3-1 to be placed on 5th position in the tournament. For China, Yulai Zhao opened the scoreline through a field goal in the 10th minute. Then Yaqi Wang sounded the board through a Field goal in the 18th and the Chinese Skipper Chongcong Chen found the opposing team's net in the 22nd minute through a penalty stroke. For Bangladesh the only goal it managed to score came from a penalty corner in the 48th minute and the goal scorer was Shohanur Muhammad Rahman.