Commissioners, ADCs (G & UD) to Ensure Timely Fogging to Prevent Malaria & Dengue*
Chandigarh, April 29, 2026:Cabinet Minister for Industries & Commerce, Investment Promotion, Power and Local Government, Shri Sanjeev Arora, today directed all Municipal Corporation Commissioners and Additional Deputy Commissioners (General & Urban Development) across Punjab to ensure comprehensive fogging operations in their respective areas to prevent the spread of malaria, dengue, and other vector-borne diseases.
The Minister emphasized that dengue and similar diseases, which are spread through mosquitoes, pose a serious threat to public health and can lead to loss of precious lives if not controlled effectively.
Keeping in view the health and safety of the public, Shri Arora issued strict instructions to initiate fogging drives immediately and ensure that these operations are carried out regularly and completed well before the peak season, extending up to October.
He further directed all concerned officers to closely monitor the situation and submit detailed reports on the action taken to his office at the earliest, ensuring accountability and timely implementation.
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*Under Bhagwant Mann Govt's Mukh Mantri Sehat Yojana, 4,600 Knees Replaced as Cashless Surgeries Restore Mobility for Thousands*
*— From years of silent pain to renewed movement, Punjab patients regain independence as free knee replacement surgeries bring relief under Mukh Mantri Sehat Yojana*
CHANDIGARH, April 29:For many, walking is ordinary. But for some, even a few steps are a daily struggle.
In Punjab, that struggle is now slowly turning into recovery, as thousands of patients suffering from severe knee pain are getting life-changing surgeries under the Bhagwant Mann Government’s Mukh Mantri Sehat Yojana (MMSY), a scheme that is making advanced treatment cashless and widely accessible.
For an ageing Sukhwinder Kaur, this shift brought immediate relief. “I had knee pain for two to three years. Some days I could barely walk,” she said. “Now after surgery, I feel very happy. Sehat card has given me my life back. I will now walk without pain.”
At 67, Paramjit Kaur from Punjab had almost stopped moving freely. Even crossing a room had become painful, and standing for a few minutes felt unbearable. For nearly a year, her life was defined by restricted movement and constant discomfort caused largely by osteoarthritis.
Her turning point came unexpectedly when her son, Jaswinder Singh, discovered the Sehat scheme through social media. “I learnt about the Mukh Mantri Sehat Yojana online. It took me a few days to arrange the documents,” he said. “Once we registered, the surgery was done. The doctors were very helpful, and my mother is now much better.”
Paramjit Kaur is now among thousands across Punjab who are regaining mobility through free knee replacements.
In just three months, nearly 4,600 knee replacement surgeries have been conducted under Mukh Mantri Sehat Yojana, reflecting a sharp rise in patients opting for treatment that was earlier delayed due to high costs.
Doctors say the change is clearly visible in hospitals. “We are seeing a surge in knee and hip replacement cases,” says Dr Karan Chopra, orthopaedic surgeon, Civil Hospital Barnala, “Most patients suffer from osteoarthritis, which damages cartilage and causes stiffness and severe pain.”
He explains that knee replacement surgery replaces damaged joint surfaces with metal and plastic components, restoring movement and reducing pain. “Earlier we used to perform around 80 surgeries a month. Now it is around 120 to 130,” he says.
One major reason for this increase is affordability. A knee replacement earlier cost between ₹50,000 to ₹1 lakh, forcing many patients to delay surgery for years.
“Previously, people were reluctant because of the expense,” Dr Chopra adds. “Now, with Aadhaar, voter ID, and Sehat card registration, the treatment is cashless. Patients do not have to pay.”
Similar stories are emerging from across Punjab. In Bathinda, Randhir Singh underwent knee surgery at AIIMS, while in Tarn Taran, Rajvinder Kaur received treatment at a district hospital under the same scheme. Families say the financial relief allowed them to choose treatment without hesitation. “My mother was in severe pain and could not do basic household work,” said Sehajpreet, Rajvinder’s daughter. “Because of the Sehat card, we did not worry about the cost. We are grateful such a scheme exists,” she added.
What is unfolding across Punjab is not just a rise in medical procedures, but a change in approach to pain itself, where treatment is no longer delayed due to cost, and mobility is no longer out of reach. In hospitals, the sound of helplessness is gradually being replaced by the sound of people walking again.
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*State Govt. Providing Rs.11,000 Monthly Pension to Freedom Fighters and Their Dependents: Mohinder Bhagat*
* Mann Government Committed to Welfare of Freedom Fighters and Their Families
Chandigarh, April 29:The Punjab Government, under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, is fully committed to the welfare of freedom fighters and their families. Stating this here today, Freedom Fighters, Defence Services Welfare and Horticulture Minister Mr. Mohinder Bhagat said that the State Government is providing a monthly pension of Rs. 11,000 to freedom fighters of Punjab, their widows, unmarried and unemployed daughters and unmarried unemployed sons.
The Minister said that freedom fighters made invaluable contributions to the country’s independence and their sacrifices will always be remembered. He said that the Punjab Government is making continuous efforts to ensure their honour and welfare.
Mr. Mohinder Bhagat said that the Punjab Government is working expeditiously for the welfare of every section of society, while every possible assistance is being extended to the families of freedom fighters.
He further said that the service and sacrifice of freedom fighters towards the nation continue to inspire the younger generation. The Punjab Government remains committed to upholding their dignity and honour.
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*Smiles Echo at Chhatbir Zoo During Heartwarming Interaction with Children*
*“Project Muskurahat” Brings New Hope to Children in Vulnerable Situations*
*From Education to Self-Reliance — Comprehensive Support Including ₹10 Lakh at Age 23*
*Every Needy Child Will Be Brought Under the Scheme: Dr. Baljit Kaur*
Chandigarh, April 29:The atmosphere at Chhatbir Zoo turned vibrant and heartwarming today as the Minister for Social Security, Women and Child Development, Dr. Baljit Kaur, shared a memorable and compassionate interaction with children living in vulnerable circumstances. The children joyfully explored the zoo, their smiles lighting up the surroundings, while the Minister spent meaningful time with them, engaging in warm conversations and listening attentively to their thoughts and experiences.
Adding a deeply personal touch to the visit, the Minister also shared lunch with the children. The gesture fostered a strong sense of belonging and emotional comfort among them, turning the occasion into a truly family-like gathering.
Addressing the gathering, Dr. Baljit Kaur stated that “Project Muskurahat” is not merely a government scheme, but a strong ray of hope for children who have lost parental care or support due to the COVID-19 pandemic, floods, or other natural calamities. She emphasized that the government is committed to ensuring that no child is deprived of opportunities to realise their dreams.
She further highlighted that the scheme extends beyond financial assistance by ensuring access to quality education, healthcare services, health insurance under Ayushman Bharat, psychological counselling, and skill development opportunities. These comprehensive interventions are aimed at creating a safe, nurturing, and enabling environment for the holistic development of children.
The Cabinet Minister informed that the government is providing special financial support to build a strong foundation for the future of these children. Under the scheme, each child will receive ₹10 lakh upon attaining the age of 23 to help them begin an independent and dignified life. Additionally, ₹20,000 per year is being provided to ensure uninterrupted school education, along with a monthly sponsorship of ₹4,000 until they reach adulthood. She reiterated that the government’s approach focuses not only on immediate relief but also on long-term empowerment through education and financial stability.
Dr. Baljit Kaur further stated that the scheme is being implemented with complete transparency and accountability. From identification by the district administration to verification by the Child Welfare Committee and direct benefit transfer, every stage is being carried out in a systematic manner. Continuous monitoring is also being ensured to guarantee that every child receives full and timely support.
Sharing key data, she informed that 43 children were orphaned due to COVID-19 and 4 children were affected by floods, all of whom have been covered under the scheme. Out of these, 42 children are already receiving financial assistance and support for higher education under various government initiatives. Additional provisions such as protection of property rights, reservation in higher educational institutions, and fee waivers are also being extended, reflecting the government’s comprehensive commitment towards child welfare.
Reaffirming the government’s resolve, the Minister stated that every orphaned and vulnerable child will be brought under the ambit of “Project Muskurahat.” She emphasized that the objective is to ensure that every eligible child benefits from the scheme and is provided with a secure, dignified, and assured future.
In an emotional note, Dr. Baljit Kaur said, “The support extended today becomes the foundation of a child’s confidence tomorrow.” She reiterated that bringing smiles to children’s faces and securing their future remains a top priority of the Punjab Government. During the visit, she also interacted individually with the children, understanding their personal situations and assuring them of the government’s unwavering support.
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*ENSURE TIMELY COMPLETION AND QUALITY WORKS ON 3,100 STADIUMS ACROSS PUNJAB: TARUNPREET SINGH SOND DIRECTS OFFICIALS*
*ULTRA-MODERN GYMS, STADIUMS AND SPORTS KITS TO EMPOWER YOUTH, ASSURES RURAL DEVELOPMENT AND PANCHAYAT MINISTER*
Chandigarh, April 29:Acting on its commitment to strengthen sports infrastructure and promote youth fitness, Punjab Rural Development and Panchayat Minister Tarunpreet Singh Sond on Tuesday directed officials to ensure timely completion and maintain high quality standards in the construction of 3,100 stadiums across the state. He asserted that the initiative, backed by the state government under Chief Minister S. Bhagwant Singh Mann, also includes establishment of ultra-modern gyms and distribution of sports kits to empower youth and channel their energy towards constructive activities.
Providing details, the Cabinet Minister informed that in the first phase of the initiative, 3,100 stadiums are being developed in villages across Punjab with a total outlay of Rs. 1,350 crore. He said the project aims at overhauling rural sports infrastructure while creating accessible spaces for youth to engage in physical activities and adopt a healthy lifestyle.
He added that these stadiums will be equipped with essential facilities including fencing, gates, jogging tracks, levelled playgrounds, volleyball courts, storage rooms and plantation. He said that "Select model stadiums" will be developed with turf and advanced infrastructure to provide better training avenues to budding sportspersons.
Highlighting another key component, Sond said that around 3,000 ultra-modern gyms will also be set up across the state. In the first phase, gyms at 1,000 locations will be established with an allocation of Rs. 35 crore. Each facility will be equipped with modern fitness equipment including barbells, weightlifting sets, benches, dumbbells, kettlebells, racks and floor mats.
The Rural Development and Panchayat Minister further stated that the government will distribute 17,000 sports kits at a cost of Rs.50 crore to ensure availability of quality equipment at the grassroots level. Each kit will include volleyball and football sets along with cricket gear for local players.
Adding further, Sond said, “Our focus is not only on building infrastructure but also on creating a strong sports culture at the grassroots level. By providing modern facilities and quality equipment, we are ensuring that every youngster in the village gets an equal opportunity to pursue sports and fitness. This initiative will play a crucial role in nurturing talent and shaping a healthier and disciplined generation.”
Reiterating the government’s commitment, Sond said these initiatives are aimed at steering youth away from drug abuse by engaging them in sports and fitness activities while providing them opportunities to excel.
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*Cabinet Minister Barinder Kumar Goyal reviews flood protection works along Sutlej in Gidderpindi, Mandala Channa*
*Directs timely completion of projects before monsoon; also stresses zero tolerance for lapses*
*Barinder Kumar Goyal visits flood prone areas in Jalandhar*
*Chandigarh/Jalandhar, April 29:*Punjab Mines and Geology, Conservation of Lands, Water and Water Resources Minister Barinder Kumar Goyal on Wednesday reviewed flood protection works in Gidderpindi and Mandala Channa villages situated along the banks of the Sutlej river, reiterating the state government’s commitment to safeguarding lives and property during flood-like situations.
Inspecting progress of ongoing projects, the Cabinet Minister noted that both villages had suffered land erosion during previous floods. He said that the Punjab Government has initiated strengthening works at these vulnerable points to prevent recurrence of such incidents during the upcoming monsoon season.
The Minister informed that as many as 132 vulnerable points along the rivers of the state have been identified and all are being strengthened on a war footing. He added that the Gidderpindi bundh has been widened to 22 feet from its earlier width of 6–7 feet, while an amount of Rs.16 crore is being spent on strengthening works at Mandala Channa and Gidderpindi. He
emphasized that all these projects will be completed before the monsoon. He also said that he has been visiting entire state to oversee the strengthening works along side river Satluj and expressed satisfaction over the preparedness. Tuesday he visited flood prone areas in Amritsar District and today he visited areas in Gudderpindi and Mandala Channa.
During his visit, Mr. Goyal inspected the ongoing desilting work under the Gidderpindi railway bridge and directed officials to ensure thorough cleaning of the channel for smooth flow of river water during heavy rains. He also reviewed the construction of an extension bundh to reinforce the existing embankment.
Later, the Minister visited flood-prone areas in Mandala Channa and instructed officials to expedite ongoing works.
Reaffirming the government’s proactive approach, he said no stone would be left unturned to protect residents from flood-related risks.
Meanwhile, Sarpanch and other prominent people in village Mandala Channa thanked the Minister for these path-breaking initiative in flood sensitive villages
They mentioned that such proactive measures were never taken by previous governments and termed these projects by Punjab Government a benchmark in mitigating flood threat in these areas.
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Sangrur emerges on top so far in terms of wheat procurement
Patiala, Bathinda & Ferozepur occupy second, third and fourth spot till date
Procurement going on at full pace: Food, Civil Supplies and Consumer Affairs Minister Lal Chand Kataruchak
Chandigarh, April 29:The Sangrur district has so far emerged on top in terms of procurement in the ongoing Wheat procurement season with the procurement to the tune of 858333.2 MT. Patiala is close second with 849614.1 MT procurement, Bathinda third with 760438.4 MT and Ferozepur with 721237.5 MT of the procurement has occupied 4th spot till date.
The total arrival as of now stands at 110.74 Lakh MT out of which 108.24 LAKH MT stands procured.
Out of the procured Wheat, the various Government agencies have procured 107.26 Lakh MT while the traders have procured 98259.2 MT.
The Food, Civil Supplies and Consumer Affairs Minister Mr. Lal Chand Kataruchak is not only making personally visits to the mandis throughout the State to take stock of the procurement operations but is also interacting with all the stakeholders i.e. Farmers, Arhtiyas and the Labourers to ensure a successful procurement season. The procurement is going at full pace, said the Minister.
On the payments front, Minimum Support Price of over Rs 25000 Crores has been cleared out of which more than Rs. 24000 Crore has already been credited into the accounts of the farmers.
Notably, as part of the efforts for making the procurement season a success, foolproof arrangements have been made such as the operationalization of 1897 procurement centres and nearly 986 temporary yards.