Dharmakshetra-Kurukshetra witnesses Global Gita Recitation; 18,000 children join in International Gita Mahotsav across multiple countries
Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini Participates in International Gita Mahotsav Program
Chief Minister announces renaming of Kurukshetra's Theme Park to Keshav Park
Chandigarh, December 11 - Haryana Chief Minister Sh Nayab Singh Saini today announced that the ‘Theme park’ located on the sacred land of Dharmakshetra-Kurukshetra will now be knonw as ‘Keshav Park’. This initiative aims to further preserve and promote the cultural and spiritual heritage of Kurukshetra, a place of immense religious and historical significance in India.
In addition, the Chief Minister declared a special holiday on Thursday for school students who participated in the Global Gita Path in Kurukshetra. He urged the students to utilize this holiday to prepare diligently for their upcoming examinations.
The Chief Minister today participated in the Global Gita Paath – Ashtadashi Shloka program, which saw the participation of 18,000 children, during the International Gita Mahotsav at Dharmakshetra-Kurukshetra. Union Agriculture Minister Sh Shivraj Singh Chauhan, Haryana Agriculture and Farmers Welfare Minister Sh Shyam Singh Rana, Tanzania Tourism Minister Smt Pindi Chana, Gita Manishi Swami Gyananand Maharaj were also present on this occasion.
While extending his greetings to the people on the occasion of Margashirsha Shukla Ekadashi and Gita Jayanti, the Chief Minister prayed that God may illuminate the lives of the state's residents with the light of knowledge. He highlighted that 5,162 years ago on this day, Lord Shri Krishna proclaimed the Shrimad Bhagavad Gita. Today the sky has resonated with the Ashtadashi verses by 18000 students. It is a matter of great pride that the Gita is being recited in numerous countries around the world. The Chief Minister said that this recitation holds not only religious significance but also a scientific one. The 18 verses recited today embody prayer, song, and a call for peace.
Under the visionary and dynamic leadership of the Prime Minister, India has embarked on a path toward a new era
The Chief Minister stated that Prime Minister Sh Narendra Modi regards the Bhagavad Gita as a guide for all of humanity. He said that through the Gita, India has contributed to the welfare of the entire world, transcending borders and time. Under the visionary leadership of the Prime Minister, India is moving towards a new era. His policies have ensured development for every section of society, including the poor, laborers, farmers, youth, and women. The Prime Minister is proudly promoting Indian culture globally. His efforts to build the grand temple of Lord Shri Rama in Ayodhya have elevated the nation's pride. The Chief Minister also mentioned that, inspired by Prime Minister Modi, the celebration of Gita Jayanti at the international level began in 2016.
Every person in life should follow his duties in every situation
Sh Nayab Singh Saini remarked that every shloka of the Bhagavad Gita offers a fresh perspective and new inspiration for living life. Shrimad Bhagavad Gita is not merely a dialogue between Arjun and Lord Shri Krishna, but provides answers to all of our questions. The first and most significant message of the Gita is that every individual should follow their dharma and duty in life. If each person in society fulfills their duties with loyalty and dedication, it will maintain discipline and balance within the community. This teaching encourages us to set aside selfishness and prioritize our responsibilities toward society and the nation.
By embracing the Gita's message of relinquishing ego and attaining self-realization, we can foster harmony in society
The Chief Minister said that the Bhagavad Gita teaches us that a true leader must rise above personal selfishness and work for the betterment of society and religion. This message serves as a powerful inspiration for today’s leaders and managers. If every individual fulfills their duties and follows the path of righteousness, a society based on morality and justice will prevail. By embracing the Gita’s teachings of relinquishing ego and attaining self-realization, we can foster stronger relationships and promote harmony within society.
The Gita is the greatest book in the world, offering a guiding path for life to all of humanity - Shyam Singh Rana
Haryana Agriculture and Farmers Welfare Minister, Sh Shyam Singh Rana said that the Bhagavad Gita is the greatest holy book in the world, providing a guide to life for all of humanity. Today, the Gita is renowned worldwide, offering the powerful message of karma. He said that anyone seeking success in life must embrace the Gita's teachings on karma. He urged children to recite the Gita daily, as it will not only improve their concentration but also equip them to navigate through difficult situations. He further explained that the Gita is both a book of education and initiation—educating us about karma while also initiating us into our duties.
International Gita Mahotsav is not merely a religious event; it is a celebration of culture, heritage, and the fundamental principles of life - Tanzania Tourism Minister, Pindi Chana
On this occasion, Pindi Chana, the Tourism Minister of Tanzania, a partner country of the International Gita Mahotsav, said that Kurukshetra is a sacred place where the Vedas and Puranas were composed. In mythology, it is considered one of the most revered pilgrimage sites. According to the Mahabharata, Kurukshetra is regarded as the most significant pilgrimage in the three lokas. This is the very land where, thousands of years ago, Lord Shri Krishna imparted the divine knowledge of the Gita to Arjun. Minister Chana stated that the International Gita Mahotsav is not merely a religious event, but a celebration of culture, heritage, and the fundamental principles of life. The teachings of the Gita, she said, convey that the highest purpose of human life lies in truth, and that the Gita serves as a guiding light in every aspect of life, in the service of both religion and humanity.
He praised the Haryana government for its commendable efforts in organizing the International Gita Mahotsav, stating that through events like this, the state has worked to revive its ancient heritage. These initiatives have not only promoted Indian culture but have also placed Haryana prominently on the global map of spiritual tourism. She highlighted the Haryana government's visionary steps to preserve pilgrimage sites, noting that Kurukshetra is a unique center of India's history and culture. The pilgrimage sites spread across 48 Kos in this sacred land are deeply rooted in the Mahabharata and Vedic stories. These sites, she said, are not only symbols of faith but also invaluable treasures of cultural heritage.
She further said that the temples and pilgrimage sites of India represent the nation's culture and spirituality across the world. The Gita Mahotsav, she said, provides an opportunity to reflect on how we can convey the message of the Gita to youth in different religious contexts. The core message of this festival is "Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam", which is the greatest strength of culture. It is the responsibility of all of us to foster and promote this sentiment.
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Selfless work always leads a person to the heights of success - Union Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan
India will soon emerge as the Vishva Guru under the leadership of Prime Minister Sh Narendra Modi
Knowledge of Gita is important for the young generation - Shivraj Singh Chouhan
Chandigarh December 11: Union Minister of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, Sh Shivraj Singh Chouhan said that 5161 years ago, Lord Krishna delivered the message of the Bhagavad Gita to the entire world through Arjuna. He emphasized that the message of performing one's duties without attachment to the results, as taught in the Bhagavad Gita, is not only spiritually profound but also aligns with scientific principles.
Sh Shivraj Singh Chouhan was speaking at the ongoing International Gita Mahotsav in Kurukshetra, today.
He said that a person who works with a desire for the outcome is constantly troubled, whereas one who works selflessly reaches the heights of success. The future generation of the country must read, understand, and adopt the teachings of the Bhagavad Gita in today's context. By embracing its wisdom, the youth should aim to set ambitious goals in their lives and follow the path of action to achieve them.
While praising the efforts of Gita Manishi Swami Shri Gyananand Ji Maharaj in spreading the teachings of the Bhagavad Gita, Union Minister Sh Shivraj Singh Chouhan highlighted that India has been a sacred land of sages and saints for thousands of years. These sages, he said, have always been concerned with the welfare of the entire world. They regarded everyone as their own and prayed for the well-being of all.
The Union Minister said that on this sacred land, the young generation should pledge to walk the path of religion for the welfare of the entire world. He further stated that under the leadership of Prime Minister Sh Narendra Modi, the country is progressing rapidly, and it is evident that India will soon emerge as the Vishva Guru. He also expressed his gratitude to Haryana Chief Minister, Sh Nayab Singh Saini for inviting him to the Gita Jayanti celebrations.
Speaking on this occasion, Gita Manishi Swami Shri Gyananand Ji Maharaj extended his congratulations to the people of the country on Gita Jayanti. He mentioned that on this auspicious occasion, around 1.50 crore people from 45 countries, along with participants from 4000 centers in India and all districts of Haryana, took part in the Global Gita Paath and the "Ek Minute, Ek Sath, Gita Path" initiative. He acknowledged the efforts of the government, which have helped elevate the Gita Mahotsav to an international level, with programs being organized in foreign countries as well. Swami Shri Gyananand Ji emphasized that if the holy book of the Gita is studied from childhood, it will benefit the future generation, making them stronger and more empowered, ultimately leading to the greatness of our country.
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*Bypass to be constructed to decongest traffic in Kurukshetra – Chief Minister*
*Central Government grants in-principle approval for Kurukshetra Bypass*
*CM calls for collaboration to make Kurukshetra number one in cleanliness*
Chandigarh, Dec 11 – Haryana Chief Minister Sh. Nayab Singh Saini said that the central government has granted in-principle approval for the construction of the Kurukshetra bypass, which will soon begin. The construction of this bypass will not only benefit the residents of Kurukshetra but also people from neighboring regions, ensuring better connectivity and improved infrastructure in this sacred land.
The Chief Minster was addressing the heads of pilgrimage sites at the 48-Kos Teerth Sammelan during the ongoing International Gita Mahotsav in Kurukshetrat today. Haryana Agriculture and Farmers Welfare Minister Sh Shyam Singh Rana, Tanzania Tourism Minister Smt Pindi Chana, Gita Manishi Swami Gyananand Maharaj were also present on this occasion.
The Chief Minister also urged the heads of all the pilgrimage sites along the 48 Kos Parikrama to come forward and help make Kurukshetra the cleanest place in the country. He emphasized that if we work together, this religious region spanning 48 Kos can undoubtedly become a leader in cleanliness across the nation.
*Haryana to launch Pilgrimage covering the 48 Kos Land of Kurukshetra on the lines of 84 Kos Brij yatra*
Sh. Nayab Singh Saini said that our aim is to launch a pilgrimage route for the 48 Kos Kurukshetra land, similar to the 84 Kos Yatra of Brij. In addition, a train service will be introduced to connect Kurukshetra with Lord Shri Krishna's city of Mathura and the holy city of Haridwar. Under the Shri Krishna Circuit Scheme, 134 sites related to the Mahabharata war will be developed as tourist destinations with an estimated investment of approximately Rs 175 crore. A Mahabharata-themed Jyotisar Anubhav Kendra is also being constructed at Geeta Sthal, Jyotisar, with an investment of Rs 205 crore. This Anubhav Kendra was recently inaugurated virtually by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
Congratulating the people on this occasion, Sh Nayab Singh Saini expressed his gratitude for the leadership of Prime Minister Sh Narendra Modi, a Karmayogi who embodies the teachings of the Gita in his life. He said that the policies of the Prime Minister aim not just at policy-making but at transforming the lives of millions of farmers, women, and the underprivileged. The Chief Minister also highlighted how, under Modi’s leadership, Kurukshetra has witnessed the successful International Gita Mahotsav, with voices of the Gita resonating across Haryana, bringing the state to the global stage.
While sharing the historical significance of Kurukshetra, he said that it was from this sacred land 5,162 years ago that Lord Shri Krishna delivered the divine message of the Gita to Arjuna. He called it a matter of immense pride for the people of Haryana and the entire nation.
The Chief Minister also shared that there are 367 pilgrimage sites in the 48 Kos land of Kurukshetra, some of which have been lost over time. Recently, 18 new pilgrimages have been added to the list of 164 pilgrimages of 48 Kos Kurukshetra land after survey and documentation. This work is still going on and there is every possibility of adding more pilgrimages to this list in the near future. In the last 5 years, Rs 76 crore has been sanctioned to Kurukshetra Development Board for 93 development works, out of which Rs 57 crore has been released. Many works have been completed and work on the remaining is going on at a fast pace.
He mentioned that several centers of faith are being established in Kurukshetra. Temples from remote areas of the country can now be found in Kurukshetra. The Sri Tirupati Balaji Temple in North India has been built here. In addition, the Jio Geeta Sansthan, Akshardham Temple, ISKCON Temple, and Gyan Mandir are also under construction.
The Chief Minister also launched 1st and 2nd edition of 48 Kos Tirtha Book, Tirtha QR Code and Kurukshetra Tour Guide.
Gita Manishi Swami Gyananand Maharaj said that today, 18,000 children recited the Gita shlokas, while millions of children participated online in this event. He said that the pilgrimages in the 48 Kos area were on the brink of disappearing, but now efforts are being made to revive this ancient heritage so that future generations can learn about it. The Haryana government is already committed to this cause and is continuously taking positive steps through the Kurukshetra Development Board. While the government's efforts will make significant progress, it is also our collective responsibility to redevelop these pilgrimage sites and attract visitors from around the world to our villages. Today, Kurukshetra is gaining recognition on the international stage, and with everyone's efforts, all the pilgrimages across the 48 Kos will receive a renewed identity.
The Chief Minister also launched 1st and 2nd edition of 48 Kos Tirtha Book, Tirtha QR Code and Kurukshetra Tour Guide.
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16 services of Gurugram & Faridabad Metropolitan Development Authority notified under Right to Service Act
Chandigarh, December 11- The Haryana Government has notified 16 services each of Gurugram Metropolitan Development Authority and Faridabad Metropolitan Development Authority under the Right to Service Act, 2014.
A notification to this effect has been issued by Chief Secretary Dr Vivek Joshi.
For units situated within the area of these two Metropolitan Development Authorities, CLU permission (except where government is competent) will be given in 60 days and building plans of sites having CLU permission by the authorities will be approved in 90 days. Occupation Certificate will be issued in 60 days in cases without any offence and in 90 days in other cases.
Under the provisions of Punjab Scheduled Roads and Controlled Areas Irregular Development Restriction Act, 1963, licences of brick kilns and charcoal kilns will be issued in 30 days. New water supply connections, sewerage and drainage connections (bulk and industrial connections) will be provided in 12 days. New drainage connections will also be issued in 12 days while water leakage and pipe overflow problems will be resolved in three days. Blockage or overflow at the manhole of the main sewer line will be rectified in seven days.
Water supply restoration due to minor problems like breakdown of pumping machinery, electrics, wiring, distribution system, etc. of these two authorities will be done in three days. Water supply restoration due to major problems like shortage of untreated water, burning of transformer, breakdown of HT/LT lines etc. will be done in six days while water supply restoration due to burning of transformer, breakdown of HT/LT lines, leakage in main water supply line etc. will be done in 10 days.
Duplicate bill of water and sewer will be issued in three days and correction of errors in bills will be done in 10 days.
Right of Way permission for laying natural gas pipeline, communication infrastructure and related installations, power lines and health services etc. will be granted in 60 days.
Designated officers for these services of both the Metropolitan Development Authorities and First and Second Appellate Officers for redressal of grievances have also been nominated.
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Pankaj Agarwal is Chairman of Haryana School Education Board
Chandigarh, December 11- Sh. Pankaj Agarwal, Chief Electoral Officer, Haryana and Commissioner and Secretary of Election Department and School Education Department, has been given the additional charge of Chairman, Haryana School Education Board, Bhiwani.
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*Re-registration for Semester, UG, and PG Courses at IGNOU Open Until January 31*
Chandigarh, December 11 – Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) has announced the commencement of re-registration for all undergraduate and postgraduate courses for the January 2025 session. Students enrolled in various IGNOU programs in January 2024 must complete their re-registration by January 31, 2025.
An official spokesperson provided further details, said that students enrolled in semester-based courses such as MBA, MCA, MCom, BCA, and similar programs during the July 2024 session are required to re-register for their upcoming semester. Additionally, students who began their first and second years of undergraduate studies in January 2024 must re-register to continue into the second and third years in January 2025.
Students can complete their re-registration process by visiting the official IGNOU website at http://www.ignou.ac.in/.
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*Haryana Energy Minister Anil Vij Inaugurates 66 kV HVPN Sub-Station*
Chandigarh, December 11 – Haryana Energy Minister, Mr. Anil Vij, inaugurated the upgraded 66 kV HVPN Sub-Station in Ambala Cantonment today. During the event, he outlined the state government's priorities and strategic plans for the energy sector.
The Minister Mr. Vij emphasized the government's commitment to reducing coal dependency and advancing renewable energy initiatives. He highlighted the proactive steps being taken to achieve energy self-sufficiency in Haryana by promoting solar power. As part of this push, a pilot program to build solar-powered homes in rural areas is set to be launched.
Additionally, Mr. Vij announced a new campaign to install pre-paid meters, aimed at enhancing transparency in energy consumption and providing greater convenience to consumers. This initiative is expected to help regulate energy usage and ease the financial burden on electricity consumers.
During the ceremony, the Minister assured attendees that the electricity department, with the full support of its officers and employees, would continue to ensure an uninterrupted power supply across the state. He urged residents to support the ongoing reforms in the energy sector, asserting that these measures would position Haryana as a leader in energy innovation. The event was attended by local public representatives, officials, and a large gathering of residents.
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*Trials for State-Level Teams for All India Civil Services Games to Begin on December 24*
Chandigarh, December 11 – The trials for selecting state-level teams for the All India Civil Services Games will commence on December 24, 2024.
A spokesperson from the Haryana Sports Department said that the District Sports Officer of each district will serve as the chairperson of the selection committees for athletes participating in table tennis, kabaddi, basketball, cricket, and badminton.
The spokesperson informed that the state-level selection for the All India Civil Services Badminton Championship will take place in Panchkula on December 24. The selection for the basketball team will also be held in Panchkula on the same day, while the kabaddi team trials are scheduled for December 25 in Rohtak.
Additionally, it was informed that the cricket team selection has been postponed until further notice. Only the table tennis team selected during the trial in Karnal on December 9, 2024, will be considered valid.
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*Rajasthani Folk Dance 'Sahariya Swang' Leaves a Lasting Impression at Gita Mahotsav*
Chandigarh, December 11 – The vibrant folk dance Sahariya Swang, performed by a talented group of artists from Rajasthan, has captivated audiences at the International Gita Mahotsav on the banks of Brahmasarovar in Kurukshetra. A 15-member team, led by their group leader, has been showcasing this traditional art form, leaving a deep impression on visitors.
Sahariya Swang consists of three distinctive dance forms Bhasmasur Swang, Kalika Swang, and Holika Swang each presenting unique movements and storytelling. Through their intricate postures and expressive performances, the artists have been sharing their rich cultural heritage with the audience.
One of the performers explained that Bhasmasur Swang portrays the legends of Lord Shiva and Bhasmasur, while Kalika Swang is traditionally performed in the month of Chaitra, and Holika Swang takes place during the month of Phalgun. The artists paint their bodies with vibrant colors and don tribal costumes, embodying characters such as lions, monkeys, and snakes.
The performers expressed their gratitude for the opportunity to showcase their craft at the event. They noted that the enthusiasm of the tourists has been overwhelming, and the dance has provided a wonderful chance to introduce their folk culture to a wider audience.
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*Jaipuri Quilts Offer Warmth and Charm for Winter Visitors*
*Handcrafted by Madhu, These Quilts Are Captivating Tourists at the Gita Mahotsav*
Chandigarh, December 11 – Jaipuri quilts, known for their lightweight and thin design, provide surprising warmth that is perfect for winter. At the craft fair set up on the sacred banks of Brahmasarovar during the International Gita Mahotsav, the unique creations of Madhu, a skilled artisan from Ahmedabad, Gujarat, are drawing the attention of both domestic and international tourists. Visitors to the fair are consistently stopping at stall number 26, where Madhu showcases her handcrafted quilts, bedsheets, cushion covers, and other decorative items.
Madhu informed that she has been engaged in the art of handicrafts for 40 years and has attended the Gita Mahotsav for the past four years. This time, she has brought her special Jaipuri quilts, known for their thin appearance but powerful warmth. The quilts have generated considerable interest among tourists, particularly the handmade bedspreads and cushion covers, which are being purchased in large numbers. "People are naturally drawn to these handcrafted items to beautify their homes," Madhu explained. "Many want to enhance the aesthetics of their living rooms with these beautiful pieces."
Tourists from around the world, including Ugric visitors Bhotir and Ramjidin from Uzbekistan, have praised Madhu’s work and carefully examined her collection. Bhotir, in particular, purchased several of Madhu’s cushion covers and paid a fair price, highlighting the appeal of her handmade products this season.
Madhu said that she launched her business as part of the Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative and now operates her own company, empowering women and collaborating with them to create high-quality handmade crafts.
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*Trials for State-Level Teams for All India Civil Services Games to Begin on December 24*
Chandigarh, December 11 – The trials for selecting state-level teams for the All India Civil Services Games will commence on December 24, 2024.
A spokesperson from the Haryana Sports Department said that the District Sports Officer of each district will serve as the chairperson of the selection committees for athletes participating in table tennis, kabaddi, basketball, cricket, and badminton.
The spokesperson informed that the state-level selection for the All India Civil Services Badminton Championship will take place in Panchkula on December 24. The selection for the basketball team will also be held in Panchkula on the same day, while the kabaddi team trials are scheduled for December 25 in Rohtak.
Additionally, it was informed that the cricket team selection has been postponed until further notice. Only the table tennis team selected during the trial in Karnal on December 9, 2024, will be considered valid.
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