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                <title>CM Bhagwant Mann - Punjab News Times</title>
                <link>https://www.punjabnewstimes.com/tag/420/rss</link>
                <description>CM Bhagwant Mann RSS Feed</description>
                
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                <title>Punjab Govt to Conduct Girdawari for Crop Loss: CM Mann Promises Relief After Rain and Hail</title>
                                    <description><![CDATA[<p style="text-align:justify;">The government will conduct a special *Girdawari* (crop damage assessment) to evaluate the losses suffered by crops due to the recent rains and hailstorms in Punjab. These directives were issued by Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, who stated that farmers would be compensated for their crop losses. He added that the administration is closely monitoring the entire situation.</p><p style="text-align:justify;">**New Law on Sacrilege to Come into Force Immediately Upon Enactment**</p><p style="text-align:justify;">The Chief Minister announced that the legislation currently being drafted to address acts of sacrilege will come into effect on the very day it is enacted. "We have convened a special</p>...]]></description>
                
                                    <content:encoded><![CDATA[<a href="https://www.punjabnewstimes.com/breaking-news/punjab-govt-to-conduct-girdawari-for-crop-loss-cm-mann/article-8814"><img src="https://www.punjabnewstimes.com/media/400/2026-04/image-(2).png" alt=""></a><br /><p style="text-align:justify;">The government will conduct a special *Girdawari* (crop damage assessment) to evaluate the losses suffered by crops due to the recent rains and hailstorms in Punjab. These directives were issued by Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, who stated that farmers would be compensated for their crop losses. He added that the administration is closely monitoring the entire situation.</p><p style="text-align:justify;">**New Law on Sacrilege to Come into Force Immediately Upon Enactment**</p><p style="text-align:justify;">The Chief Minister announced that the legislation currently being drafted to address acts of sacrilege will come into effect on the very day it is enacted. "We have convened a special session for this purpose," he said. "Since this is a state-specific law, it will become operational from that very day; there is no requirement to forward it to the President for assent." He further added that if the SGPC (Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee) wishes to offer any suggestions regarding this legislation, they are welcome to do so.</p><p style="text-align:justify;">**The Formula Behind Providing Free Electricity in Punjab**</p><p style="text-align:justify;">The Chief Minister explained that the Punjab government had previously acquired a coal mine, but it had remained non-operational. Consequently, the state used to purchase coal from private companies. "We revived and began operating our own coal mine," he stated. "We successfully met our target of extracting 70 lakh (7 million) metric tonnes of coal. We took over the mine in October 2022, and to date, we have saved ₹1,462 crore. This is where the funds come from."</p><p style="text-align:justify;"><img src="https://www.punjabnewstimes.com/media/2026-04/image-(2).png" alt="image (2)" width="1200" height="800"></img></p><p style="text-align:justify;">"Had we continued purchasing coal in the manner Captain [Amarinder Singh] and Sukhbir Badal did in the past, it would have cost us an additional ₹1,462 crore. It is precisely for this reason that the Electricity Board did not incur a loss, enabling us to provide electricity free of cost. Captain and Sukhbir Badal should take note of this—this is how effective governance is executed. They claim that all the electricity currently being generated was actually 'generated' by their fathers; if that were true, then why couldn't their 'fathers' generate votes? After all, you had handed over the entire electricity sector to private entities. All those solar power projects under the 'Satyawala' banner belong to Majithia; they would have citizens install the projects, only to subsequently take them over for themselves."</p><p style="text-align:justify;">**No Shortage of Coal in Punjab**</p><p style="text-align:justify;">The Chief Minister asserted that reports regarding a depletion of coal reserves in Punjab are now outdated. "We currently have a reserve of 41 days' worth of coal remaining at Rupnagar, 37 days' worth at Lehra Mohabbat, and 32 days' worth at Goindwal," he noted. "This constitutes a substantial reserve for us, especially given that coal supplies are continuously arriving from the source." He further announced that the Shahpur Kandi Project is scheduled to become operational in May 2027.</p>]]></content:encoded>
                
                                                            <category>Punjab</category>
                                            <category>Breaking News</category>
                                    

                <link>https://www.punjabnewstimes.com/breaking-news/punjab-govt-to-conduct-girdawari-for-crop-loss-cm-mann/article-8814</link>
                <guid>https://www.punjabnewstimes.com/breaking-news/punjab-govt-to-conduct-girdawari-for-crop-loss-cm-mann/article-8814</guid>
                <pubDate>Mon, 06 Apr 2026 14:22:21 +0530</pubDate>
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                <title>Punjab Assembly: CM Touts Free Healthcare Over Canada; Cong MLA Raises Bomb Blast Issue, AAP MLA Demands Pay Hike for PAs</title>
                                    <description><![CDATA[<p style="text-align:justify;">The Punjab Assembly is on its third day of the budget session. The budget debate is underway. Congress MLA Barinderjit Singh Pahra said that a bomb exploded outside the city police station in Gurdaspur, but it went unreported for 15 days. During this time, a woman and a man were injured, but the government took no action.</p>
<p style="text-align:justify;">Earlier, CM Bhagwant Mann said that even Canada doesn't have a plan for free treatment up to 10 lakh rupees. The opposition is now counting the months, having failed to fulfill their own promises. We reduced electricity by 1.5 rupees.</p>
<p style="text-align:justify;">Congress Legislature Party</p>...]]></description>
                
                                    <content:encoded><![CDATA[<a href="https://www.punjabnewstimes.com/breaking-news/punjab-assembly--cm-touts-free-healthcare-over-canada--cong-mla-raises-bomb-blast-issue--aap-mla-demands-pay-hike-for-pas/article-8713"><img src="https://www.punjabnewstimes.com/media/400/2026-03/download-(1).jpg" alt=""></a><br /><p style="text-align:justify;">The Punjab Assembly is on its third day of the budget session. The budget debate is underway. Congress MLA Barinderjit Singh Pahra said that a bomb exploded outside the city police station in Gurdaspur, but it went unreported for 15 days. During this time, a woman and a man were injured, but the government took no action.</p>
<p style="text-align:justify;">Earlier, CM Bhagwant Mann said that even Canada doesn't have a plan for free treatment up to 10 lakh rupees. The opposition is now counting the months, having failed to fulfill their own promises. We reduced electricity by 1.5 rupees.</p>
<p style="text-align:justify;">Congress Legislature Party and Leader of the Opposition Pratap Singh Bajwa questioned the AAP government regarding the ₹1,000 benefit to women. He said that only one year is left.</p>
<p style="text-align:justify;">First, explain whether women received ₹48,000 in the last four years or should they just throw away their shirts. CM Bhagwant Mann should clarify this in his budget speech.</p>
<p style="text-align:justify;">Bajwa also asked that the AAP government had promised to build 14 medical colleges in 2022-23. Of these, only five names have been revealed.</p>
<p style="text-align:justify;">Nothing has been revealed about their progress. At least reveal the names of the remaining nine. Bajwa also raised questions about the lack of enforcement of the strict law against sacrilege.</p>
<p style="text-align:justify;">During this, Bajwa repeatedly asked, "If they're not letting him speak, should he leave?" CM Bhagwant Mann retorted, "Did they ask us before?"</p>
<p style="text-align:justify;">After this, when Minister Aman Arora stood up to speak, Congress members created a ruckus. After some time, the Congress members left.</p>
<p style="text-align:justify;">An interesting incident occurred during this period: when the time bell rang, Minister Aman Arora said, "Let me speak, or I'll leave too."</p>
<p style="text-align:justify;">Major updates from the debate...</p>
<p style="text-align:justify;">AAP MLA Dr. Sukhwinder Kumar Sukhi said that the salaries of MLAs' PAs should be increased. They receive 10,000 rupees.</p>
<p style="text-align:justify;">The CM said that on March 20th, he would be inaugurating the second-largest Tata Cycle Valley in Ludhiana, after Jamshedpur. 3200 crore rupees will be spent on this, which will directly create 2,000 jobs.<br />CM Mann said, "We are providing free electricity to 90% of households. This is the first time that 600 units of electricity are free, including for agricultural purposes. We have also eliminated the electricity board's debt, and now electricity has been reduced by 70 paise to 1.5 rupees."</p>
<p style="text-align:justify;"><img src="https://www.punjabnewstimes.com/media/2026-03/download-(1).jpg" alt="download (1)" width="1200" height="800"></img><br />CM Mann said that even AI can lose to the human mind. "I argued a lot, and then the AI ​​said, 'I am a machine.' The current time is for competing with computers."<br />BJP MLA Jangi Lal Mahajan said, "There is an Arora boy in Mukerian, who was addicted to drugs. He was released on bail from Hoshiarpur after 11 months. He returned home, but the police did not know. A month later, he went to Hoshiarpur to appear. While he was returning home, the Mukerian police arrested him two hours later, shot him with 1,000 bullets, and filed a new case." Akali Dal MLA Manpreet Ayali said, "A case has been filed against our MP, brother Amritpal Singh, in Ajnala. He has been charged with taking the law into his own hands. It's been three years since he was booked under the NSA. The NSA has been lifted against his associates, but their bail is being opposed. When they voted and took the oath, why is Amritpal not being allowed to speak in Parliament? Even today, the government is making Sikhs feel enslaved."</p>]]></content:encoded>
                
                                                            <category>Politics</category>
                                            <category>Punjab</category>
                                            <category>Breaking News</category>
                                    

                <link>https://www.punjabnewstimes.com/breaking-news/punjab-assembly--cm-touts-free-healthcare-over-canada--cong-mla-raises-bomb-blast-issue--aap-mla-demands-pay-hike-for-pas/article-8713</link>
                <guid>https://www.punjabnewstimes.com/breaking-news/punjab-assembly--cm-touts-free-healthcare-over-canada--cong-mla-raises-bomb-blast-issue--aap-mla-demands-pay-hike-for-pas/article-8713</guid>
                <pubDate>Mon, 09 Mar 2026 17:43:26 +0530</pubDate>
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                <title>CM Mann's post goes viral before his appearance at Sri Akal Takht Sahib</title>
                                    <description><![CDATA[<p style="text-align:justify;">Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann appealed to the Jathedar of Sri Akal Takht, Giani Kuldeep Singh Gadgaj, to live telecast his appearance at the Akal Takht on January 15th on all channels. Mann wrote on social media platform X: "I am receiving messages from all over the world that when I present the accounts of the offerings (Golak) on behalf of the congregation on January 15th, it should be live telecast.</p>
<p style="text-align:justify;">Understanding the sentiments of the congregation worldwide, I also request the Jathedar that my explanation be broadcast live, so that the congregation remains informed about every detail and every</p>...]]></description>
                
                                    <content:encoded><![CDATA[<a href="https://www.punjabnewstimes.com/breaking-news/cm-manns-post-goes-viral-before-his-appearance-at-sri/article-8517"><img src="https://www.punjabnewstimes.com/media/400/2026-01/image-(1)1.png" alt=""></a><br /><p style="text-align:justify;">Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann appealed to the Jathedar of Sri Akal Takht, Giani Kuldeep Singh Gadgaj, to live telecast his appearance at the Akal Takht on January 15th on all channels. Mann wrote on social media platform X: "I am receiving messages from all over the world that when I present the accounts of the offerings (Golak) on behalf of the congregation on January 15th, it should be live telecast.</p>
<p style="text-align:justify;">Understanding the sentiments of the congregation worldwide, I also request the Jathedar that my explanation be broadcast live, so that the congregation remains informed about every detail and every penny of the accounts. See you on January 15th, with evidence."</p>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><a href="https://twitter.com/BhagwantMann/status/2009126545991061832?s=20">https://twitter.com/BhagwantMann/status/2009126545991061832?s=20</a></blockquote>
<p style="text-align:justify;">

</p>
<p style="text-align:justify;">Responding to Mann's statement, SGPC member Gurcharan Singh Grewal said that the Jathedar of Akal Takht Sahib must have felt something was amiss. Objections arose among the public, which is why the Chief Minister was summoned. This matter should not be given a political color. The world knows the reason; the documents that will go to the Akal Takht will be historical. One should not impose conditions when going to the Akal Takht. Why is CM Mann being summoned to the Akal Takht...?<br />This controversy began after Punjabi singer Jasbir Jassi's rendition of a Shabad (religious hymn). The Akal Takht Jathedar objected to Jassi's singing of the Shabad, stating that Jassi is not a complete Sikh and therefore cannot sing Shabad. To this, CM Mann said that if that is the case, then stop apostate Sikhs from bowing their heads and putting money in the offering box as well. The Akal Takht Jathedar expressed displeasure over the videos and comments.</p>
<p style="text-align:justify;">After CM Bhagwant Mann's statements, the Akal Takht Jathedar expressed his displeasure. He said that the comments about the Guru's offering box, which is related to the principle of Dasvandh (tithing) of the Gurus, are objectionable. The Jathedar also expressed displeasure over the lack of action in the Bargari and Maur sacrilege and bomb blast cases. In addition, the Jathedar objected to a video in which CM Mann was allegedly shown engaging in disrespectful acts towards the Gurus and Sant Jarnail Singh Bhindranwale. Mann has been summoned to appear before the Akal Takht secretariat on January 15th regarding this matter. CM Mann had said, "I will go barefoot to appear before the Akal Takht."<br />After being summoned by the Jathedar, CM Bhagwant Mann said that he would appear before the Akal Takht as a humble Sikh. During this time, the CM also informed that he would not be able to attend President Droupadi Murmu's program on the same day. CM Mann said, "The order from Sri Akal Takht Sahib is accepted with utmost respect. This servant will appear not as a Chief Minister, but as a humble Sikh, walking barefoot. President Droupadi Murmu is coming to participate in a conference at Guru Nanak Dev University in Amritsar on January 15th, so I apologize for my inability to attend that day."</p>
<p style="text-align:justify;"><strong>Sri Akal Takht, the highest of the 5 Takhts, its decrees are followed by all Sikhs</strong></p>
<p style="text-align:justify;">SGPC member Bhai Manjit Singh explained that Sri Akal Takht Sahib is the supreme political and judicial institution of the Sikhs. Its function is to guide and make decisions for the community on worldly and religious matters. The Akal Takht was established in 1606 by Guru Sri Hargobind Sahib, the son of the 5th Guru, Sri Guru Arjan Dev.</p>
<p style="text-align:justify;">He observed that great injustice was being perpetrated in the world. Therefore, he formulated the principle of adopting two swords: one of Miri and the other of Piri. This meant that decisions on religion and politics would be made from a single platform. Sri Akal Takht is located in Amritsar, directly opposite Harmandir Sahib. Akal Takht means the throne of the timeless God.</p>
<p style="text-align:justify;"><img src="https://www.punjabnewstimes.com/media/2026-01/image-(1)1.png" alt="image (1)" width="1200" height="800"></img></p>
<p style="text-align:justify;">It is the highest and oldest of the five Takhts of Sikhism. A Hukamnama (edict) is issued from here on any important issue or dispute related to the Sikh religion or community. This Hukamnama is mandatory for Sikhs all over the world to follow.</p>]]></content:encoded>
                
                                                            <category>Politics</category>
                                            <category>Punjab</category>
                                            <category>Breaking News</category>
                                    

                <link>https://www.punjabnewstimes.com/breaking-news/cm-manns-post-goes-viral-before-his-appearance-at-sri/article-8517</link>
                <guid>https://www.punjabnewstimes.com/breaking-news/cm-manns-post-goes-viral-before-his-appearance-at-sri/article-8517</guid>
                <pubDate>Thu, 08 Jan 2026 14:09:13 +0530</pubDate>
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                <title>Free treatment up to Rs 10 lakh in Punjab from January 15, Kejriwal and Chief Minister Mann will launch</title>
                                    <description><![CDATA[<p style="text-align:justify;">A scheme offering free medical treatment up to Rs. 10 lakh will be launched in Punjab on January 15th. This was announced by Punjab Health Minister Balbir Singh. Speaking at a press conference in Chandigarh, he said that Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann and AAP supremo Arvind Kejriwal will launch the scheme.</p>
<p style="text-align:justify;">He said that this will provide health insurance to 3 crore people in Punjab. The minister said that cards will be issued at more than 9,000 Common Service Centers. Camps will also be set up for this purpose. Once enrolled, individuals will be eligible for treatment. The cards will</p>...]]></description>
                
                                    <content:encoded><![CDATA[<a href="https://www.punjabnewstimes.com/breaking-news/free-treatment-up-to-rs-10-lakh-in-punjab-from/article-8496"><img src="https://www.punjabnewstimes.com/media/400/2026-01/image-(2).png" alt=""></a><br /><p style="text-align:justify;">A scheme offering free medical treatment up to Rs. 10 lakh will be launched in Punjab on January 15th. This was announced by Punjab Health Minister Balbir Singh. Speaking at a press conference in Chandigarh, he said that Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann and AAP supremo Arvind Kejriwal will launch the scheme.</p>
<p style="text-align:justify;">He said that this will provide health insurance to 3 crore people in Punjab. The minister said that cards will be issued at more than 9,000 Common Service Centers. Camps will also be set up for this purpose. Once enrolled, individuals will be eligible for treatment. The cards will take 10 to 15 days to arrive. The entire state of Punjab will be covered in about 4 months.</p>
<p style="text-align:justify;">The minister said that there will not be too many formalities. Anyone with a Punjab Aadhaar card and voter ID will be eligible. Around 65 lakh families in Punjab will benefit from this scheme. The scheme includes all emergency and chronic care, covering approximately 2200 medical procedures. Cosmetic surgery is not included. Some procedures that could be misused have been placed in a reserved package.</p>
<p style="text-align:justify;">Here's what Health Minister Balbir Singh claimed regarding the scheme:</p>
<p style="text-align:justify;">More than nine thousand camps will be set up in villages and cities: The Health Minister said that more than nine thousand camps will be set up through Common Service Centers in urban areas and villages for this scheme. It takes ten to fifteen days for the card to be issued. Our aim is to issue cards to all eligible people within three to four months. He said that once enrolled, the eligible person will be able to avail treatment.<br />Pensioners, government employees, and common people will be included: The Health Minister said that pensioners, government employees, and common people will all be included in the scheme. The only condition is that the person must be a resident of Punjab. Their voter ID and Aadhaar card must be from Punjab. Many states have shown interest in Punjab's health schemes. International countries have also shown interest. 4.59 crore people, or every second Punjabi, have already received medicines from Aam Aadmi Clinics. Many Punjabis suffer from chronic diseases like asthma and diabetes. They are also getting their medicines tested at the clinic and receiving medication.<br />United will spend up to one lakh, and the government will cover the rest if needed: The Health Minister stated that the impact of the Mohalla Clinics will be visible in the next five to ten years. People will be prevented from developing kidney or liver failure. Many chronic diseases like cancer will start to decrease when people take their medication on time. This scheme fits within its budget. This scheme is based on a hybrid model. United will spend up to one lakh. After that, if more money is needed, our health agency will automatically cover the expenses through a trust model.</p>
<p style="text-align:justify;"><img src="https://www.punjabnewstimes.com/media/2026-01/image-(2).png" alt="image (2)" width="1200" height="800"></img></p>
<p style="text-align:justify;">People of Punjab will not have to worry about the expenses.<br />The minister further added that sometimes, when someone suffers from a serious illness, people fall into debt. Sometimes, if the earning member of a family falls ill and doesn't survive after treatment, the entire family faces immense difficulties. They end up burdened with debt. With this scheme of the Punjab government, such families will not have to worry about the expenses for treatment.</p>]]></content:encoded>
                
                                                            <category>Politics</category>
                                            <category>Health</category>
                                            <category>Punjab</category>
                                            <category>Breaking News</category>
                                    

                <link>https://www.punjabnewstimes.com/breaking-news/free-treatment-up-to-rs-10-lakh-in-punjab-from/article-8496</link>
                <guid>https://www.punjabnewstimes.com/breaking-news/free-treatment-up-to-rs-10-lakh-in-punjab-from/article-8496</guid>
                <pubDate>Fri, 02 Jan 2026 15:35:58 +0530</pubDate>
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                <title>Punjab Police to get 1,600 new personnel in March</title>
                                    <description><![CDATA[<p style="text-align:justify;">People will no longer have to face difficulties at Punjab Police stations to get their cases addressed. The Punjab Police will receive approximately 1600 new personnel by March 2026. These will include Inspectors, Sub-Inspectors, and Assistant Sub-Inspectors (ASIs). These appointments are being made on a promotional basis. All the personnel are currently undergoing training. This was announced by Punjab DGP Gaurav Yadav at a press conference in Chandigarh today.</p>
<p style="text-align:justify;">The DGP stated that this will strengthen the police stations. He also said that after calling Dial 112, police assistance will arrive within five to eight minutes. The police have decided</p>...]]></description>
                
                                    <content:encoded><![CDATA[<a href="https://www.punjabnewstimes.com/punjab/punjab-police-to-get-1600-new-personnel-in-march/article-8482"><img src="https://www.punjabnewstimes.com/media/400/2025-12/whatsapp-image-2025-12-31-at-1.17.39-pm.jpeg" alt=""></a><br /><p style="text-align:justify;">People will no longer have to face difficulties at Punjab Police stations to get their cases addressed. The Punjab Police will receive approximately 1600 new personnel by March 2026. These will include Inspectors, Sub-Inspectors, and Assistant Sub-Inspectors (ASIs). These appointments are being made on a promotional basis. All the personnel are currently undergoing training. This was announced by Punjab DGP Gaurav Yadav at a press conference in Chandigarh today.</p>
<p style="text-align:justify;">The DGP stated that this will strengthen the police stations. He also said that after calling Dial 112, police assistance will arrive within five to eight minutes. The police have decided to improve their response time for emergency calls. Currently, the response time in Punjab is ten to twelve minutes. They are also planning to purchase 8100 new vehicles for the Police Control Room (PCR).</p>
<p style="text-align:justify;"><strong>Modern Control Room to be built in Mohali</strong></p>
<p style="text-align:justify;">The DGP stated that the current response time for the Dial 112 helpline is ten to thirteen minutes. We are going to reduce this to seven to eight minutes. For this, a modern control room will be built in Sector-89 of Mohali at a cost of Rs. 200 crore. Rs. 125 crore will be spent on upgrading vehicles.</p>
<p style="text-align:justify;">Meanwhile, the Punjab Police has spent Rs. 800 crore on upgrading vehicles over the past three years. The central government has a vehicle scrap policy, which stipulates that no vehicle older than 15 years should be on the road. We have scrapped 2000 vehicles.</p>
<p style="text-align:justify;">In their place, 1500 four-wheelers and 400 two-wheelers have been inducted into the Punjab Police over the last three years. Next year, we are going to purchase 8100 vehicles for the PCR. All DSPs to Receive New Vehicles</p>
<p style="text-align:justify;">This year, ₹45 crore has been spent on police welfare, ₹80 crore on counter-intelligence, ₹40 crore on the cybercrime division, ₹60 crore on police stations in border areas, ₹106 crore on computerization, ₹142 crore on police buildings, ₹80 crore on modernization, and ₹258 crore on police vehicles. All 454 SHOs (Station House Officers) in the state have new vehicles. This year, all DSPs (Deputy Superintendents of Police) will be provided with new vehicles.</p>
<p style="text-align:justify;"><strong>Crime Scene Uploaded on Saakshya App</strong><br />Officers handling NDPS (Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances) cases are being trained at Rajiv Gandhi Law University to ensure proper handling of cases. Internet speed is being increased in all police stations. Criteria have been set for this. All crime scenes are being uploaded to the e-Saakshya app. So far, 80 percent of the work has been completed.</p>
<p style="text-align:justify;"><img src="https://www.punjabnewstimes.com/media/2025-12/whatsapp-image-2025-12-31-at-1.17.39-pm.jpeg" alt="WhatsApp Image 2025-12-31 at 1.17.39 PM" width="1200" height="800"></img></p>
<p style="text-align:justify;"><strong>Four Lakh Criminal Samples in PIAS</strong><br />To curb drug trafficking, the focus is on financial investigations. The police are now working to control organized crime. The PIAS 2.0 software has been launched. Voice samples of criminals are being taken when they are brought to jail.</p>
<p style="text-align:justify;">Four lakh samples have been collected. Organized Crime 2.0 will be launched. This is being timed with the link sharing initiated by the NIA (National Investigation Agency). Work is underway on passport-linked criminal record verification.</p>
<p style="text-align:justify;"></p><video style="width:100%;height:auto;" src="https://www.punjabnewstimes.com/media/2026-03/youcut_20260303_095146780.mp4" controls=""></video>]]></content:encoded>
                
                                                            <category>Punjab</category>
                                            <category>Breaking News</category>
                                    

                <link>https://www.punjabnewstimes.com/punjab/punjab-police-to-get-1600-new-personnel-in-march/article-8482</link>
                <guid>https://www.punjabnewstimes.com/punjab/punjab-police-to-get-1600-new-personnel-in-march/article-8482</guid>
                <pubDate>Wed, 31 Dec 2025 15:38:07 +0530</pubDate>
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                <title>The Punjab government will soon purchase 1300 new buses: permits have been issued for 505 mini-buses.</title>
                                    <description><![CDATA[<p style="text-align:justify;">The Punjab Chief Minister today issued permits for 505 mini-buses in Chandigarh. On this occasion, he said that the Punjab government is bringing in 1300 new buses, which will strengthen the public transport system. He also strongly criticized the Badal family, saying that instead of centralizing the bus system, they had privatized it for their own benefit.</p>
<p style="text-align:justify;">He also targeted Pratap Singh Bajwa, saying that during his tenure as Transport Minister, he had set up the most toll plazas. Similarly, he criticized the central government for changing the name of the MNREGA scheme, saying it was a betrayal of the</p>...]]></description>
                
                                    <content:encoded><![CDATA[<a href="https://www.punjabnewstimes.com/breaking-news/the-punjab-government-will-soon-purchase-1300-new-buses-permits/article-8452"><img src="https://www.punjabnewstimes.com/media/400/2025-12/image-(3).png" alt=""></a><br /><p style="text-align:justify;">The Punjab Chief Minister today issued permits for 505 mini-buses in Chandigarh. On this occasion, he said that the Punjab government is bringing in 1300 new buses, which will strengthen the public transport system. He also strongly criticized the Badal family, saying that instead of centralizing the bus system, they had privatized it for their own benefit.</p>
<p style="text-align:justify;">He also targeted Pratap Singh Bajwa, saying that during his tenure as Transport Minister, he had set up the most toll plazas. Similarly, he criticized the central government for changing the name of the MNREGA scheme, saying it was a betrayal of the poor. He announced that a special session would be held in the second week of January to address this issue. He also attacked the central government on the Agnipath scheme. He said that wherever Punjab's interests are concerned, he will raise the issue prominently.</p>
<p style="text-align:justify;">"What would they know about the joy of getting a mini-bus permit?"</p>
<p style="text-align:justify;">On this occasion, CM Bhagwant Mann congratulated the new mini-bus operators who were receiving permits for the first time, as well as those whose permits were being renewed. He said that more than 1100 permits have been issued so far, with 505 being issued today. These permits were issued by the Regional Transport Authorities of Jalandhar, Patiala, Bathinda, and Ferozepur.</p>
<p style="text-align:justify;">When the officers told me that about 600 permits were to be issued, I said that we should hold a program in a good auditorium and invite everyone. The officers said that this wasn't the usual practice. So I told them that the previous buses used to run from Abohar to Pathankot and from Bathinda to Jaipur.</p>
<p style="text-align:justify;">What would they know about the joy of owning a mini-bus? They don't understand. Those whose routes extend from one corner of Punjab to the other, even to the Pakistan border, what would they know about mini-buses? 450 people are getting permits for the first time. Their names have been registered in the transport department. One mini-bus will cover 5 to 6 villages, a 35-kilometer route.</p>
<p style="text-align:justify;">"We are building 19,000 km of rural roads."</p>
<p style="text-align:justify;">The CM said that his endeavor is to make the youth of Punjab job creators. People used to complain that bus services to villages had stopped. Now buses are being operated in schools. Many people have said that this is providing employment opportunities for children.</p>
<p style="text-align:justify;">However, the problem was that the village roads were in poor condition. Now, 19,000 kilometers of roads are being constructed. A total of 43,000 kilometers of roads are being built. The roads are not just being superficially repaired; special attention is being paid to their quality. The contractor has been given a 5-year responsibility period.</p>
<p style="text-align:justify;">He also instructed the operators to ensure that the buses arrive on time. This trust won't be built in a day, but will gradually strengthen.</p>
<p style="text-align:justify;">This time, even candidates with fewer votes have won the elections.</p>
<p style="text-align:justify;">The CM said that so far, 58,000 people have been given jobs. Jobs were not given by manipulating anyone's scores. Earlier, when the results of the block committee or district council elections were announced, it was simply declared from outside, "Go home, we have won." But this time, candidates from opposition parties have won by just one vote, three votes, five, or twenty votes. We were also never in power before. The people gave us a chance, and today we are gaining experience. If we don't do the right thing again, the people will give someone else a chance. The land of Punjab is very fertile.</p>
<p style="text-align:justify;"><img src="https://www.punjabnewstimes.com/media/2025-12/image-(3).png" alt="image (3)" width="1200" height="800"></img></p>
<p style="text-align:justify;">Special machines for tickets at bus stands</p>
<p style="text-align:justify;">Regarding the pollution in Delhi, the CM said that vehicles manufactured before 2018 are now not allowed to enter the city. Many conditions are being imposed. We are modernizing Jalandhar, Ludhiana, Patiala, Sangrur, and Bathinda. All kinds of facilities will be provided for the people there. Special machines for purchasing tickets online and at bus stands are also being installed.</p>]]></content:encoded>
                
                                                            <category>Punjab</category>
                                            <category>Breaking News</category>
                                    

                <link>https://www.punjabnewstimes.com/breaking-news/the-punjab-government-will-soon-purchase-1300-new-buses-permits/article-8452</link>
                <guid>https://www.punjabnewstimes.com/breaking-news/the-punjab-government-will-soon-purchase-1300-new-buses-permits/article-8452</guid>
                <pubDate>Fri, 19 Dec 2025 15:25:50 +0530</pubDate>
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                <title>CM Mann returns from abroad, gives information about meetings held in Japan</title>
                                    <description><![CDATA[<p style="text-align:justify;">Bhagwant Singh Mann said here that he wants progress for Punjab, from the bottom of his heart. He wants to provide employment to the people of Punjab right here, and he is traveling around to create jobs here. He said he would go wherever he needs to go for this purpose.</p>
<p style="text-align:justify;">He said, "People act according to their intentions. These people are quoting rates for everything from councilors to MLAs and the Chief Minister. Let them have their rates for these positions, how much a minister's chair sells for, how much the Chief Minister's chair sells for.</p>
<p style="text-align:justify;">They are quoting</p>...]]></description>
                
                                    <content:encoded><![CDATA[<a href="https://www.punjabnewstimes.com/breaking-news/cm-mann-returns-from-abroad-gives-information-about-meetings-held/article-8419"><img src="https://www.punjabnewstimes.com/media/400/2025-12/image-(5).png" alt=""></a><br /><p style="text-align:justify;">Bhagwant Singh Mann said here that he wants progress for Punjab, from the bottom of his heart. He wants to provide employment to the people of Punjab right here, and he is traveling around to create jobs here. He said he would go wherever he needs to go for this purpose.</p>
<p style="text-align:justify;">He said, "People act according to their intentions. These people are quoting rates for everything from councilors to MLAs and the Chief Minister. Let them have their rates for these positions, how much a minister's chair sells for, how much the Chief Minister's chair sells for.</p>
<p style="text-align:justify;">They are quoting rates like in rural markets, how much an MC, MLA, and CM sell for. This is their mindset. I am thinking about bringing investment to Punjab, while they are talking about bringing in [someone named] Valtora.</p>
<p style="text-align:justify;">I am talking about waiving the loans and electricity bills of farmers and traders in Punjab, while they are talking about forgiving Giani Gurbachan Singh.</p>
<p style="text-align:justify;">Let them have their way; I am leaving this to the people's court." He recited a couplet by Kabir: "Kabira, your hut is near the executioners.  Whoever does wrong will suffer the consequences, why are you so sad?" He ended the press conference without taking questions from reporters and left. He was giving information about the investment summit to be held in March after his visit to Japan and South Korea.</p>
<p style="text-align:justify;"><strong>Punjabi youth will be taught Japanese and Korean languages</strong></p>
<p style="text-align:justify;">Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann said that companies from Japan and South Korea want to come and work here, but they face a language barrier. He said they will teach the youth of Punjab these languages ​​so that they can communicate with them. Previously, Punjabi youth were only learning French, etc. He wants to open doors of employment for Punjabi youth.</p>
<p style="text-align:justify;"><strong>He detailed the entire ten-day program and listed the agreements made with companies.</strong></p>
<p style="text-align:justify;">Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann returned from Japan and South Korea after ten days. He held a press conference at his official residence. He gave details of his meetings with companies and ministers in Japan and South Korea. He said that a large number of companies are ready to invest in Mohali, Punjab. Several companies have expressed their willingness to contribute to making Mohali an IT hub. Furthermore, these companies have also indicated their intention to establish R&amp;D centers there.</p>
<p style="text-align:justify;"><strong>Chief Minister on a 10-day foreign tour</strong></p>
<p style="text-align:justify;">Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann was on a 10-day foreign tour to Japan and South Korea. He was accompanied by Punjab industrialist Sanjeev Gupta, Chief Secretary KAP Sinha, and senior officials from the investment promotion department. The aim of this tour was to attract investment to Punjab.</p>
<p style="text-align:justify;">The government is preparing to organize the Progressive Punjab Business Summit in March of next year. Companies are being contacted to encourage investment in Punjab. Several companies are already coming to the state. Many renowned companies, such as Tata Steel, have already invested in Punjab.</p>
<p style="text-align:justify;"><img src="https://www.punjabnewstimes.com/media/2025-12/image-(5).png" alt="image (5)" width="1200" height="800"></img></p>
<p style="text-align:justify;">Read also : <a class="post-title-lg" href="https://www.punjabnewstimes.com/breaking-news/delhi-high-court-reprimands-central-government-over-indigo-crisis/article-8417">Delhi High Court reprimands Central Government over Indigo crisis</a></p>
<p style="text-align:justify;"><strong>Japanese companies show interest in investing</strong></p>
<p style="text-align:justify;">It was reported that during the Japan tour, Japanese companies participated and showed keen interest in investing in the state. CM Mann said that the state government's goal is to create new opportunities for our youth and to provide a stable and reliable environment for investors.</p>
<p style="text-align:justify;">It was also mentioned that grounded investments worth over ₹1.4 lakh crore have already been secured through Invest Punjab.</p>]]></content:encoded>
                
                                                            <category>Punjab</category>
                                            <category>Breaking News</category>
                                    

                <link>https://www.punjabnewstimes.com/breaking-news/cm-mann-returns-from-abroad-gives-information-about-meetings-held/article-8419</link>
                <guid>https://www.punjabnewstimes.com/breaking-news/cm-mann-returns-from-abroad-gives-information-about-meetings-held/article-8419</guid>
                <pubDate>Wed, 10 Dec 2025 18:11:54 +0530</pubDate>
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                <title>CM Mann passes resolution regarding 3 cities of Punjab..! Makes big announcement</title>
                                    <description><![CDATA[<div style="text-align:justify;">The Punjab government has designated three cities as holy cities. These include Sri Anandpur Sahib, Talwandi Sabo, and the Golden Temple corridor in Amritsar. Alcohol, meat, and even tobacco will not be sold in these places.</div>
<div style="text-align:justify;">  </div>
<div style="text-align:justify;">CM Bhagwant Mann announced this decision after a special session of the Assembly convened in Sri Anandpur Sahib to commemorate the 350th martyrdom anniversary of Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji. This was the first time that a Punjab Assembly session was held outside Chandigarh.</div>
<div style="text-align:justify;">  </div>
<div style="text-align:justify;">CM Mann stated that Punjab has three Takhts (Takhts) on its soil, and all three cities have been designated as</div>...]]></description>
                
                                    <content:encoded><![CDATA[<a href="https://www.punjabnewstimes.com/punjab/cm-mann-passes-resolution-regarding-3-cities-of-punjab-makes/article-8378"><img src="https://www.punjabnewstimes.com/media/400/2025-11/image-(1)3.png" alt=""></a><br /><div style="text-align:justify;">The Punjab government has designated three cities as holy cities. These include Sri Anandpur Sahib, Talwandi Sabo, and the Golden Temple corridor in Amritsar. Alcohol, meat, and even tobacco will not be sold in these places.</div>
<div style="text-align:justify;"> </div>
<div style="text-align:justify;">CM Bhagwant Mann announced this decision after a special session of the Assembly convened in Sri Anandpur Sahib to commemorate the 350th martyrdom anniversary of Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji. This was the first time that a Punjab Assembly session was held outside Chandigarh.</div>
<div style="text-align:justify;"> </div>
<div style="text-align:justify;">CM Mann stated that Punjab has three Takhts (Takhts) on its soil, and all three cities have been designated as holy cities. Special funds will be allocated for the sanitation of these three cities. AAP supremo Arvind Kejriwal stated that the designation of the three Takht cities was a demand of millions of people. Intoxicants, meat, alcohol, and tobacco will no longer be sold in these cities.</div>
<div style="text-align:justify;"> </div>
<div style="text-align:justify;">Earlier, Leader of the Opposition Pratap Singh Bajwa said that Punjabis are being tested today. Only the people of Punjab can stop what Delhi is doing to Punjab. BJP MLA Ashwani Sharma was enraged by Bajwa's statement. Sharma said, "Today we must reflect on why these sacrifices occurred. At that time, the sacred thread and tilak were not merely symbols of Pandits; they were the identity of Sanatan Dharma. At that time, the ninth Guru, Teg Bahadur, fought against oppression."</div>
<div style="text-align:justify;"> </div>
<div style="text-align:justify;">Bajwa said, "Only Punjab can stop Delhi."</div>
<div style="text-align:justify;">Opposition leader Pratap Singh Bajwa said, "Today Punjabis are being tested. Only the people of Punjab can stop what Delhi is doing to Punjab. We are injected with one or the other every few months. Therefore, we must unite politically to protect Punjab and Punjabiat."</div>
<div style="text-align:justify;"> </div>
<div style="text-align:justify;">Today we must pledge to fight for human rights.</div>
<div style="text-align:justify;">Ajnala MLA Kuldeep Singh Dhaliwal said, "For the first time in Punjab's history, we are being forced out of Chandigarh. This is the most precious moment of our lives." He said that Punjab is still fighting against oppression and anti-Punjab forces, following the path shown by the Guru Sahibs. Today, we are fighting for human rights.</div>
<div style="text-align:justify;"> </div>
<div style="text-align:justify;"><img src="https://www.punjabnewstimes.com/media/2025-11/image-(1)3.png" alt="image (1)" width="1200" height="800"></img></div>
<div style="text-align:justify;"> </div>
<div style="text-align:justify;">CM gives ₹50 lakh to Kukhewali village</div>
<div style="text-align:justify;">CM Bhagwant Mann has also given ₹50 lakh to Kukhewali village, where Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib spent more than 9 years. Dhaliwal said, "I thank him for this. We must pledge today to continue the fight for human rights. We don't know how many days we have left in life, but today is a very precious and sacred day."</div>]]></content:encoded>
                
                                                            <category>Punjab</category>
                                            <category>Breaking News</category>
                                    

                <link>https://www.punjabnewstimes.com/punjab/cm-mann-passes-resolution-regarding-3-cities-of-punjab-makes/article-8378</link>
                <guid>https://www.punjabnewstimes.com/punjab/cm-mann-passes-resolution-regarding-3-cities-of-punjab-makes/article-8378</guid>
                <pubDate>Mon, 24 Nov 2025 17:23:36 +0530</pubDate>
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                <title>Third encounter in Amritsar in 72 hours: Punjab Police arrest armed robbers, 1 injured</title>
                                    <description><![CDATA[<p style="text-align:justify;">Punjab Police conducted their third encounter in Amritsar within 72 hours. Commissioner Gurpreet Singh stated that two key accused in an armed robbery have been arrested. The CP stated that the accused opened fire on police during the operation. One of the accused was injured and immediately rushed to the hospital for treatment.</p>
<p style="text-align:justify;">According to reports, a woman was robbed at gunpoint in the Maqboolpura area on November 14th. A case was registered under FIR No. 258 under the Espionage and Arms Acts.</p>
<p style="text-align:justify;">Police conducted a swift investigation and arrested two of the accused, Jaskirat Singh alias Sahil and Anmol</p>...]]></description>
                
                                    <content:encoded><![CDATA[<a href="https://www.punjabnewstimes.com/breaking-news/third-encounter-in-amritsar-in-72-hours-punjab-police-arrest/article-8372"><img src="https://www.punjabnewstimes.com/media/400/2025-11/image-(3)1.png" alt=""></a><br /><p style="text-align:justify;">Punjab Police conducted their third encounter in Amritsar within 72 hours. Commissioner Gurpreet Singh stated that two key accused in an armed robbery have been arrested. The CP stated that the accused opened fire on police during the operation. One of the accused was injured and immediately rushed to the hospital for treatment.</p>
<p style="text-align:justify;">According to reports, a woman was robbed at gunpoint in the Maqboolpura area on November 14th. A case was registered under FIR No. 258 under the Espionage and Arms Acts.</p>
<p style="text-align:justify;">Police conducted a swift investigation and arrested two of the accused, Jaskirat Singh alias Sahil and Anmol Buta Singh. The investigation revealed that Jaskirat Singh had hidden the Austrian-made Glock pistol used in the incident.</p>
<p style="text-align:justify;">Firing at Police</p>
<p style="text-align:justify;">When the police team arrived at the location indicated by the accused to recover the weapon, Jaskirat Singh suddenly opened fire with a hidden pistol. SHO Maqboolpura retaliated, shielding the team. The accused was shot in the leg. Police ensured his immediate medical attention.</p>
<p style="text-align:justify;"><strong>Connected with gangster Gurdev Jaisal</strong></p>
<p style="text-align:justify;">Investigation revealed that the accused had previously been involved in several crimes in the Tarn Taran and Lopoke areas, including gunfire and robbery. Furthermore, both had connections with foreign gangster Gurdev Jaisal and were committing crimes on his instructions.</p>
<p style="text-align:justify;"><img src="https://www.punjabnewstimes.com/media/2025-11/image-(3)1.png" alt="image (3)" width="1200" height="800"></img></p>
<p style="text-align:justify;">Police recovered an Austrian-made 9mm Glock pistol from the accused. The CP stated that strict action against criminals would continue and that the Punjab Police would make every effort to ensure the safety of the general public.</p>]]></content:encoded>
                
                                                            <category>Politics</category>
                                            <category>Punjab</category>
                                            <category>Breaking News</category>
                                    

                <link>https://www.punjabnewstimes.com/breaking-news/third-encounter-in-amritsar-in-72-hours-punjab-police-arrest/article-8372</link>
                <guid>https://www.punjabnewstimes.com/breaking-news/third-encounter-in-amritsar-in-72-hours-punjab-police-arrest/article-8372</guid>
                <pubDate>Fri, 21 Nov 2025 18:01:59 +0530</pubDate>
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                <title>JE terminated for substandard road construction in Punjab: Notice issued to SDO; Flying Squad uproots road, questions contractor</title>
                                    <description><![CDATA[<div style="text-align:justify;">The flying squad formed by Punjab CM Bhagwant Mann for road construction has come into action. During a surprise inspection of the Makha Chahal special link road of Market Committee Bhikhi in Mansa, the flying squad found deficiencies. Due to poor quality, the flying squad terminated JE Gurpreet Singh of the Punjab Mandi Board.</div>
<div style="text-align:justify;">  </div>
<div style="text-align:justify;">A notice was also issued to the Sub-Divisional Officer (SDO). All work under the SDO's supervision was immediately withdrawn. The team arrived in Bhikhi on Monday. Public Works Department officials and contractors were also present.</div>
<div style="text-align:justify;">  </div>
<div style="text-align:justify;"><strong>The road will break if heavy traffic passes through.</strong></div>
<div style="text-align:justify;">During the</div>...]]></description>
                
                                    <content:encoded><![CDATA[<a href="https://www.punjabnewstimes.com/breaking-news/je-terminated-for-substandard-road-construction-in-punjab-notice-issued/article-8356"><img src="https://www.punjabnewstimes.com/media/400/2025-11/image-(2)1.png" alt=""></a><br /><div style="text-align:justify;">The flying squad formed by Punjab CM Bhagwant Mann for road construction has come into action. During a surprise inspection of the Makha Chahal special link road of Market Committee Bhikhi in Mansa, the flying squad found deficiencies. Due to poor quality, the flying squad terminated JE Gurpreet Singh of the Punjab Mandi Board.</div>
<div style="text-align:justify;"> </div>
<div style="text-align:justify;">A notice was also issued to the Sub-Divisional Officer (SDO). All work under the SDO's supervision was immediately withdrawn. The team arrived in Bhikhi on Monday. Public Works Department officials and contractors were also present.</div>
<div style="text-align:justify;"> </div>
<div style="text-align:justify;"><strong>The road will break if heavy traffic passes through.</strong></div>
<div style="text-align:justify;">During the inspection, the team told the SDO to install something along the berm, as heavy traffic will cause the road to break. Following this, the team took samples of the road. A one-square-yard area was measured and the road was dug up to reveal the look.</div>
<div style="text-align:justify;"> </div>
<div style="text-align:justify;">The contractor was asked, "What have you done?" The officer then asked, "What have you done?" The contractor was then asked, "What have you done?" The officer asked, "Do you have any idea how much weight is required?" The contractor said 4800 grams. Officials responded that the seal coat should weigh 5250 grams after application, but the seal coat on the road was completely fresh.</div>
<div style="text-align:justify;"> </div>
<div style="text-align:justify;">The sample was then sealed and attached. Further action was taken based on this inspection report.</div>
<div style="text-align:justify;"><img src="https://www.punjabnewstimes.com/media/2025-11/image-(2)1.png" alt="image (2)" width="1200" height="800"></img></div>
<div style="text-align:justify;"> </div>
<div style="text-align:justify;"><strong>Strictness on Upgrading 19,000 KM of Roads</strong></div>
<div style="text-align:justify;">The Punjab government is carrying out repair and upgrade work on 19,000 km of link roads. Chief Minister Flying Squad teams have been formed to monitor the road work. The government has decided that these teams will inspect and monitor the roads being upgraded from 2022-23 to 2025-26. The effort is to ensure that there is no compromise on the quality of work. A total of ₹3,425 crore will be spent on the project.</div>]]></content:encoded>
                
                                                            <category>Punjab</category>
                                            <category>Breaking News</category>
                                    

                <link>https://www.punjabnewstimes.com/breaking-news/je-terminated-for-substandard-road-construction-in-punjab-notice-issued/article-8356</link>
                <guid>https://www.punjabnewstimes.com/breaking-news/je-terminated-for-substandard-road-construction-in-punjab-notice-issued/article-8356</guid>
                <pubDate>Mon, 17 Nov 2025 18:02:22 +0530</pubDate>
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                <title>Former Punjab minister to face corruption charges: Cabinet approves</title>
                                    <description><![CDATA[<p style="text-align:justify;">A cabinet meeting was held on Wednesday at the Punjab Chief Minister's residence in Chandigarh. The meeting approved the prosecution of former Congress minister Sadhu Singh Dharamsot in a corruption case. The Vigilance Bureau filed an FIR against Dharamsot in June 2022. The investigation revealed that Dharamsot had accepted a bribe of ₹1.67 crore.</p>
<p style="text-align:justify;">According to a government spokesperson, action will also be taken against Dharamsot under the PMLA 2022. The cabinet has sent a recommendation to the Governor to initiate the case.</p>
<p style="text-align:justify;">Finance Minister Harpal Cheema stated that the cabinet has approved the central government's decision to reduce GST.</p>...]]></description>
                
                                    <content:encoded><![CDATA[<a href="https://www.punjabnewstimes.com/breaking-news/former-punjab-minister-to-face-corruption-charges-cabinet-approves/article-8186"><img src="https://www.punjabnewstimes.com/media/400/2025-09/gys98arwwaej-js.jpeg" alt=""></a><br /><p style="text-align:justify;">A cabinet meeting was held on Wednesday at the Punjab Chief Minister's residence in Chandigarh. The meeting approved the prosecution of former Congress minister Sadhu Singh Dharamsot in a corruption case. The Vigilance Bureau filed an FIR against Dharamsot in June 2022. The investigation revealed that Dharamsot had accepted a bribe of ₹1.67 crore.</p>
<p style="text-align:justify;">According to a government spokesperson, action will also be taken against Dharamsot under the PMLA 2022. The cabinet has sent a recommendation to the Governor to initiate the case.</p>
<p style="text-align:justify;">Finance Minister Harpal Cheema stated that the cabinet has approved the central government's decision to reduce GST. It will be passed in the upcoming assembly session.</p>
<p style="text-align:justify;">He stated that a special court will be established in Mohali under a sessions judge to handle all NIA cases currently being heard in various courts. All cases will be heard in the Mohali court. The Punjab government will arrange for this, while the central government will pay for the costs.</p>
<p style="text-align:justify;"><strong>Illegal encroachments in villages will be recovered.</strong><br />The Punjab government has decided to recover money from people who have illegally occupied the village common land that was left vacant. A committee headed by the District Deputy Commissioner (DC) will be formed to determine the rates. Once the rates are finalized, the encroachers will be charged accordingly. Half of the recovered money will go to the committee and the other half to the department.</p>
<p style="text-align:justify;"><strong>Two types of OTS schemes launched</strong><br />A one-time settlement policy has been approved for Punjab shellers. Under this, 188 cases will be covered, for which penalties and interest will not be charged. The Punjab government has launched two types of OTS (One-Time Settlement) schemes to facilitate people in paying their past dues.</p>
<p style="text-align:justify;">The first is for food supply defaulters. This scheme is for 1,688 sheller owners who have not repaid the Food Supply Department's money. They can pay their outstanding amount in three installments. Only after depositing the money will they be able to operate their shops.</p>
<p style="text-align:justify;">The second is for pre-GST cases. This includes 20,039 cases. If the tax case is up to Rs 1 crore, 50% of the penalty and basic tax will be waived. Cases between Rs 1 crore and Rs 25 crore will receive a 25% waiver. Other conditions remain the same. Both schemes will remain in effect until December 31st. After that, no such OTS scheme will be introduced.</p>
<p style="text-align:justify;"><strong>Amendment to the Right to Business Act</strong><br />Industry Minister Sanjeev Arora stated that the Right to Business Act has been amended to cover a larger number of industries. The limit has been increased from Rs 25 crore to Rs 125 crore. Now, industries with turnover above Rs 105 crore can also be included under this Act and will receive approval in a shorter time.</p>
<p style="text-align:justify;"><strong>Read Also : <a class="post-title-lg" href="https://www.punjabnewstimes.com/national/chandigarh-rahpura-railway-line-approved-18-kilometer-track-to-be-built-vande/article-8182">Chandigarh-Rajpura railway line approved: 18-kilometer track to be built; Vande Bharat train to run from Firozpur, Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnav informed</a></strong></p>
<p style="text-align:justify;">He said that five new approvals have been added. This includes labor department approval, factory license approval, consent to establish from the Pollution Department, no objection certificate from the Forest Department, and other necessary approvals.</p>
<p style="text-align:justify;"><img src="https://www.punjabnewstimes.com/media/2025-09/gys98arwwaej-js.jpeg" alt="GyS98aRWwAEj-js" width="1200" height="800"></img></p>
<p style="text-align:justify;"><strong>The Act will cover all approved real estate projects.</strong><br />The Minister stated that previously, the Right to Business Act only applied to approved industrial parks. Now, all approved real estate projects will be included. Real estate projects will be approved within five days. Projects that do not fall into this category will receive approval within 15 days. If a project is an extension, it will receive approval within 18 days. Green and orange industries will be given priority in this process.</p>]]></content:encoded>
                
                                                            <category>Punjab</category>
                                            <category>Breaking News</category>
                                    

                <link>https://www.punjabnewstimes.com/breaking-news/former-punjab-minister-to-face-corruption-charges-cabinet-approves/article-8186</link>
                <guid>https://www.punjabnewstimes.com/breaking-news/former-punjab-minister-to-face-corruption-charges-cabinet-approves/article-8186</guid>
                <pubDate>Wed, 24 Sep 2025 16:55:23 +0530</pubDate>
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                <title>Punjab government fully prepared for flood management, helpline number released</title>
                                    <description><![CDATA[<p style="text-align:justify;">Keeping in mind the threat of floods in Punjab, the Mann government has made extensive preparations. A state-level flood control room has been set up in Jalandhar, the command of which has been entrusted to Minister Aman Arora. The flood-affected areas are being monitored through this control room. For the convenience of the people, the government has issued a helpline number 0181-2240064, on which the affected people can contact 24 hours a day.</p>
<p style="text-align:justify;">Advisor to the Culture Department Deepak Bali will monitor the situation from the control room along with the Deputy Commissioner Jalandhar. Apart from this, Ministers Dr. Balbir</p>...]]></description>
                
                                    <content:encoded><![CDATA[<a href="https://www.punjabnewstimes.com/punjab/punjab-government-full-prepared-for-flood-management-helpline-number-released/article-8107"><img src="https://www.punjabnewstimes.com/media/400/2025-08/gy9rycew0aa0srd.jpeg" alt=""></a><br /><p style="text-align:justify;">Keeping in mind the threat of floods in Punjab, the Mann government has made extensive preparations. A state-level flood control room has been set up in Jalandhar, the command of which has been entrusted to Minister Aman Arora. The flood-affected areas are being monitored through this control room. For the convenience of the people, the government has issued a helpline number 0181-2240064, on which the affected people can contact 24 hours a day.</p>
<p style="text-align:justify;">Advisor to the Culture Department Deepak Bali will monitor the situation from the control room along with the Deputy Commissioner Jalandhar. Apart from this, Ministers Dr. Balbir Singh, Gurmeet Singh Khudiya and Barinder Kumar Goyal have been appointed to monitor the flood situation in the entire Punjab.</p>
<p style="text-align:justify;"><img src="https://www.punjabnewstimes.com/media/2025-08/gy9rycew0aa0srd.jpeg" alt="Gy9ryceW0AA0Srd" width="1200" height="800"></img></p>
<p style="text-align:justify;">Ministers and officers have also been given responsibilities at the district level. Ministers Mahinder Bhagat and Hardeep Singh Mundia in Kapurthala, Laljit Singh Bhullar and Harbhajan Singh ETO in Tarn Taran, while Dr. Baljit Kaur and Tarunpreet Singh Saundh have been made in-charge for monitoring the flood situation.</p>
<p style="text-align:justify;">Read Also : <a class="post-title-lg" href="https://www.punjabnewstimes.com/breaking-news/information-related-to-pm-modis-graduation-degree-will-not-be/article-8104">Information related to PM Modi's graduation degree will not be disclosed, Delhi High Court cancels CIC order</a></p>
<p style="text-align:justify;">The government has claimed that full preparations have been made for the safety, relief and assistance of the flood-affected people and no lacuna will be left. Relief teams have been deployed at the ground level and the situation is being continuously assessed.</p>]]></content:encoded>
                
                                                            <category>Punjab</category>
                                    

                <link>https://www.punjabnewstimes.com/punjab/punjab-government-full-prepared-for-flood-management-helpline-number-released/article-8107</link>
                <guid>https://www.punjabnewstimes.com/punjab/punjab-government-full-prepared-for-flood-management-helpline-number-released/article-8107</guid>
                <pubDate>Mon, 25 Aug 2025 19:14:25 +0530</pubDate>
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