*From Heart Disease to Cancer Cure and More; The Mukh Mantri Sehat Yojana Provides Aid in Emergencies*

*₹10 lakh health cover transforming emergency care access, reducing financial burden for Punjab families under Mukh Mantri Sehat Yojna*

*From hesitation to timely treatment: Mukh Mantri Sehat Yojna helping families act faster in life-threatening medical emergencies*

*No family should delay treatment due to financial constraints, Mukh Mantri Sehat Yojna is ensuring timely care for all: Balbir Singh*

CHANDIGARH, April 4:Punjab’s flagship Mukh Mantri Sehat Yojna is emerging as a critical pillar of healthcare security, offering ₹10 lakh coverage per family and enabling faster access to treatment while reducing financial stress during sudden medical emergencies. As illnesses such as heart attack, cancer, and birth complications continue to strike without warning, the Punjab Government’s approach is increasingly centred on bridging the gap between medical urgency and affordability through large-scale public health intervention.

Illnesses like heart attack, cancer, and birth complications can strike without any red flags, causing sudden, severe symptoms and requiring immediate medical attention to prevent serious complications. This suggests that such health conditions often develop silently and strike without warning, leaving little room for delay or indecision. In Punjab, this growing concern is increasingly being viewed through the lens of financial preparedness, with government-backed initiatives like the Mukh Mantri Sehat Yojna aiming to bridge the gap between medical urgency and affordability.

According to the Department of Health and Family Welfare, Punjab, the government, led by CM Bhagwant Singh Mann, is running the health scheme that gives every family free medical treatment up to ₹10 lakh per year. It covers treatment for over 2,300 diseases in both government and private hospitals.

Highlighting the hidden onset of major diseases, global health data underscores the urgency of early intervention. The World Health Organisation informs that diseases like heart disease, cancer, diabetes, and long-term breathing problems cause about 75% of deaths worldwide every year, and many people don’t even know they’re at risk until it’s too late. “By the time patients come to us, the disease is often at an advanced stage,” said Dr Esha Arora, Medical officer (medicine), district hospital, Mohali. “Early detection can help improve outcomes, but it is still not prioritised. Routine screenings remain underutilised, largely because the absence of symptoms creates a false sense of security,” she added.

Medical experts emphasise that when emergencies strike, time becomes the most critical factor. As per the American Heart Association, even a few minutes’ delay in treating a heart attack or stroke can cause permanent damage, or even cost a life. Doctors indicate that hesitation at such moments is common. “Families often pause to consider costs before proceeding with treatment,” said Dr Esha Arora. “That delay can be dangerous.” It is in this context that financial protection schemes like the Mukh Mantri Sehat Yojna are expected to play a transformative role.

From coverage to actual care delivery, the scheme has witnessed substantial uptake across Punjab. Officials state that over 33 lakh families have been enrolled, with lakhs of hospital admissions processed under the scheme, particularly for cardiac procedures, cancer treatment, and dialysis. “The scheme has successfully registered over 33 lakh beneficiaries and approved 1,98,793 free treatments, amounting to approximately ₹3,30,01,32,533. Of this total, ₹59,34,18,468 has already been disbursed to hospitals,“ as per the State health agency, Punjab. People across age groups, from infants to the elderly, have benefited, including those requiring critical interventions such as heart surgeries and cancer care.

Health Department sources further indicate that the initiative has helped reduce out-of-pocket expenditure for many families, especially in high-cost treatments that would otherwise require borrowing or asset sales. This is particularly significant in the Indian context, where out-of-pocket spending accounts for nearly 47% of total healthcare expenditure, as highlighted in National Sample Survey Office and government-backed studies.

Early indicators suggest encouraging trends on the ground, even as comprehensive assessments remain underway. These include improved willingness among patients to seek hospital care, fewer delays in emergency admissions, and a gradual increase in early-stage diagnosis in certain cases, particularly where screening programmes are active.

Punjab Health Minister Balbir Singh stated that the scheme is part of a broader push to ensure equitable healthcare access across the state. “Our objective is to ensure that no family delays treatment due to financial constraints. We are continuously working to expand coverage, improve hospital networks, and strengthen implementation,” he said.

The enrolment drive is continuing to gain momentum, with the state health agency focusing on targeted awareness campaigns to ensure beneficiaries understand how and when to use the scheme. Officials overseeing implementation shared that continuous efforts are being made to create awareness, simplify claim processes, and ensure a smoother, more accessible experience for both hospitals and patients.

At the same time, experts underline that preventive healthcare remains a crucial gap. Regular check-ups, early screenings, and monitoring of risk factors are still limited, particularly in rural areas. Data from the National Family Health Survey indicates that only about one-fourth of rural adults have ever undergone basic health screening, while cancer screening rates among women remain below 2%. While insurance provides a safety net when illness strikes, prevention ultimately determines its severity and outcomes.

Health emergencies may not be predictable, but preparedness can be strengthened. Financial protection through the Mukh Mantri Sehat Yojna, combined with increased awareness and a stronger focus on preventive care, is steadily shaping a more resilient healthcare framework in Punjab. As experts note, when illness strikes without warning, the difference between delay and timely care often determines the difference between recovery and long-term consequences, making preparedness not just a policy priority but a necessity.

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*Dr. Ravjot Singh reviews functioning of Prisons Department, holds meeting with Jail Superintendents*

Chandigarh/Hoshiarpur, April 04:Dr. Ravjot Singh, Cabinet Minister for Parliamentary, NRI affairs and Jails, Punjab, today chaired a meeting of all Superintendents of Jails at the District Administrative Complex, Hoshiarpur.

The meeting was attended by Sh. Arun Pal Singh, IPS, ADGP Jails; Sh. Surinder Pal Singh Mand, IPS, DIG Jails (Ferozepur & Patiala Range); Sh. Sukhmander Singh Mann, IPS, DIG Jails (Amritsar Range); and Sh. Manmohan Kumar, DIG Headquarters, along with all Superintendents of Jails and officers of Prison Headquarters.

The meeting served as an introductory interaction with jail officers wherein the Minister was apprised of the overall functioning of the department and key initiatives undertaken to address critical challenges such as overcrowding and management of high-risk prisoners.

The Minister was also briefed regarding the proposed Punjab Prisons and Correctional Services Bill, and the Punjab Good Conduct Prisoners Bill, which is under active consideration of the Government of Punjab. Further, discussions were held on the proposal for Restructuring of the department, including the requirement of additional posts to strengthen the operational framework across all the jails in the State.

The Minister further listened to the Issues raised by Superintendents of Jails, including staff shortages and operational concerns such as the functioning of sewerage treatment plants, repair of toilets in jails and renovation work in residential complexes.

The Minister was apprised of ongoing and upcoming infrastructure projects, including the construction of a High Security Jail at Ludhiana and the proposed Women Open Jail at Patiala. The Minister desired that work of both these projects be done expeditiously so that they can be made operational at the earliest.

In his address, Dr. Ravjot Singh encouraged officers to work with integrity, dedication, and without fear, emphasizing the need for strengthened efforts to curb illegal activities in prisons and to enhance correctional and rehabilitation measures for inmates.

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“Soil to Plate” – A New initiative for strengthening Punjab’s Agriculture

Launched by Punjab State Food Commission in collaboration with RE Generating Punjab

Chandigarh, April 4:Taking a significant step towards sustainable agriculture, the Punjab State Food Commission, in collaboration with RE:Generating Punjab, launched the “Soil to Plate” initiative, aimed at restoring soil health and strengthening the agricultural system across the state.

Chairing the event, Commission Chairman Shri Bal Mukand Sharma emphasized the need for a collective approach to tackle declining soil fertility, depleting groundwater, and environmental challenges. He inaugurated the seminar by inviting Ms. Sumit Sandhu (Delhi), Founder Steward, RE:Generating Punjab, to present the agenda.

The seminar saw participation from around 15 experts and selected farmers from Punjab, the USA, and the UK, who actively shared their views. Detailed discussions were held on organic farming, alternative crop cycles, vermicompost-based fertilizers, soil organic carbon, efficient water usage, food processing, and exports. The central theme remained aligned with Sri Guru Nanak Dev Ji’s teaching: “Pavan Guru, Pani Pita, Mata Dharat Mahat.”

Participants included Sumit Sandhu (Delhi), Mukti Kumar (Jumple, England), Jyoti Sarup (Unnati Cooperative), Rajneesh Sharma (Expert in Vermicompost Fertilizer), Jatinder Kaur Arora (Former Executive Director, Punjab State Council for Science & Technology), Ripandeep Singh (Assistant Director, Chandigarh University, Gharuan), Tarun Sen (Manager, Punjab Agro Industries Corporation Ltd.), N.S. Brar (Chairman, Pagro Frozen Foods Pvt. Ltd.), K.B. Singh (Director, PAMETI, PAU), Jaspreet Singh (Turmeric Producer), Chamkaur Singh (Moga), Gurmukh Singh (Batala), Dhaliwal Sahib (USA), Sarbjit Bajwa (Amritsar), Sh. Satt Singh Ji, and many other progressive farmers and scholars.

In addition, Commission Members Sardar Jasvir Singh Sekhon and Shri Chetan Prakash Dhaliwal were also present. They expressed satisfaction over the success of the seminar and appreciated the leadership of Chairman Bal Mukand Sharma.

Mukti Kumar (Carbon Savvy, UK) highlighted the importance of organic carbon in the soil, while Dr. Baljinder Singh Saini (Head of Tata Trusts Punjab) shared practical recommendations to improve soil quality.

As part of this initiative, the formation of a “Think and Do Tank” was also announced, which will play an important role in accelerating the regeneration of Punjab’s agriculture.

In conclusion, Chairman Bal Mukand Sharma shared the key takeaways of the seminar and assured that all suggestions and concerns raised during the event would be brought to the attention of the Punjab Government. He also mentioned that the inspiration for this seminar came from Shri M.S. Aujla.

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*Punjab Geared Up for Special Intensive Revision (SIR), says CEO*

- *Over 74% Electors Mapped in Pre-SIR Exercise across the State so far*

- *2003 Electoral Roll Available on ECI Portal for Electors to Map and Link Details*

Chandigarh, April 4:Chief Electoral Officer (CEO), Punjab, Ms. Anindita Mitra, today informed that the State of Punjab is fully prepared for the upcoming Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls, with all preparatory activities progressing in a structured and time-bound manner in anticipation of notification of schedule for the SIR exercise by the Election Commission of India.

Highlighting the progress achieved so far, the CEO, Punjab informed that a comprehensive pre-SIR mapping exercise has been undertaken across all districts of the State. As per the latest data as on April 4, 8:00 AM, 74.27% of the electors in Punjab have been mapped with the last intensive revision records. Out of the total 2,14,57,521 electors, as many as 1,59,36,941 electors have been mapped across the State.

To ensure the timely and efficient completion of the pre-SIR exercise, daily monitoring of progress made by Electoral Registration Officers (EROs) has been undertaken at the headquarters level, enabling close supervision and prompt resolution of issues.

Providing district-wise insights, Ms. Mitra stated that districts such as Tarn Taran (88.64%), Moga (86.91%), Sri Muktsar Sahib (85.47%), and Mansa (84.20%) have recorded some of the highest mapping percentages. Other major districts, including Ludhiana (64.14%), Amritsar (75.60%), Jalandhar (68.05%), and Patiala (69.33%), have also shown substantial progress.

*How do Electors find their vote in the 2003 Electoral Roll*

The CEO, Punjab emphasized that electors can and should proactively locate and map their details by referring to the 2003 electoral rolls, which serve as a key reference for the SIR process.

Electors can access the 2003 voter list through the official portal of the Election Commission of India at: https://voters.eci.gov.in/

“Citizens are encouraged to search for their names in the 2003 electoral roll. In case their name is not found, they may also verify the details of their family members, such as parents or grandparents, to establish linkage,” said the CEO, Punjab.

*Door-to-Door Enumeration during SIR*

The CEO added that During the SIR exercise, Booth Level Officers (BLOs) will conduct door-to-door enumeration across the State. Enumeration forms will be distributed in duplicate, and collected along with supporting documents, ensuring complete coverage. Every elector whose name appears in the 2025 voter list, is required to fill these Ennumeration forms.

“Active cooperation from citizens will be crucial to ensure that every eligible voter is included and that electoral rolls remain accurate and up to date,” the CEO, Punjab added.

*Participation of Political Parties*

The Chief Electoral Officer, Punjab said that the appointment of Booth Level Agents (BLAs) by political parties is a crucial requirement , and added that over 8,000 BLAs have been appointed across the State, thereby ensuring wider stakeholder participation in the electoral process.

*Helpline & Citizen Support*

To facilitate electors, a state/district contact centre has been set up at the toll-free number 1950. The helpline operates from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM on working days and will function round the clock during the SIR period. Citizens can also lodge complaints through this number.

Additionally, electors can use the “Book a Call with BLO” facility on the ECINET platform and access various services through the Voter Helpline App.

*Commitment to Clean Electoral Rolls*

Reiterating the commitment of the Election Commission, Ms. Mitra stated that the objective of SIR is to ensure accurate, inclusive, and error-free electoral rolls, forming the foundation of a strong democratic system. Punjab, she said, is fully prepared to roll out the SIR exercise seamlessly as soon as the schedule is notified.

*Responsibility of Voters*

The Chief Electoral Officer urged all voters to cooperate with their Booth Level Officers to ensure that their votes are mapped with the 2003 voter list, well before the House to House Ennumeration starts. She also cautioned that having votes in more than one place, is a offence under the Representation of People’s Act, 1950.

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*Bhagwant Mann Government Extends Deadline of OTS for Recovery of Outstanding Dues, 2025 to May 31: Harpal Singh Cheema*

*Deadline Pushed from March 31 to May 31, Offering a Final Window for Taxpayers to Clear Pending Dues: Harpal Singh Cheema*

*Scheme Records Strong Response with Rs. 134.21 Crore Realized and Rs. 446.17 Crore in Waivers Extended to Businesses*

*Decision to Grant Extension Driven Directly by Feedback From Eligible Taxpayers: Harpal Singh Cheema*

*Identified 8,000 properties of tax defaulters will face auction soon, if they don't promptly avail OTS: Harpal Singh Cheema*

Chandigarh, April 4-The Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann-led Punjab Government has officially announced a two-month extension for the Punjab One Time Settlement (OTS) Scheme for Recovery of Outstanding Dues, 2025. Originally slated to conclude on March 31, 2026, the final date for filing applications has been pushed to May 31, 2026. Punjab Finance, Excise and Taxation Minister Advocate Harpal Singh Cheema made the announcement on Saturday, emphasizing that this extension provides a crucial, final opportunity for eligible taxpayers to resolve their pending dues and secure substantial financial relief. He further warned that the Taxation Department has already identified 8,000 properties belonging to tax defaulters, which will face auction soon if they do not promptly act on this last chance.

Sharing the updated progress of the initiative in a press communique issued here, Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema highlighted the strong and encouraging response the scheme has garnered across the state. He said, "To date, the taxation department has successfully received 9,151 applications. This enthusiastic participation has translated into a total revenue realization of Rs. 134.21 crore, an indicator of steady revenue mobilization and high taxpayer confidence in the current administration. Furthermore, businesses have benefited immensely from the initiative, with the state government having already extended waivers amounting to an impressive Rs. 446.17 crore."

Reflecting on the success of earlier settlement initiatives, the Finance Minister Cheema said, "While OTS-2 in the fiscal year 2022–23 saw the receipt and disposal of 2,487 applications, OTS-3 in the fiscal year 2023–24 recorded the disposal of approximately 70,000 applications. This robust historical participation underscores the significant potential of such schemes and suggests that a large segment of eligible taxpayers has yet to avail themselves of the benefits under the current 2025 scheme." He said that the decision to grant this latest extension was driven directly by feedback from field formations, with the primary objectives of maximizing taxpayer participation, significantly reducing ongoing litigation, and facilitating enhanced revenue realization for the state treasury.

Despite the accommodating extension, the Finance Minister issued a firm and unequivocal warning to intentional defaulters, clarifying that this will be the absolute final window of opportunity. Cheema said, " The Taxpayers who fail to participate in the scheme by the May 31, 2026 deadline will face severe recovery proceedings in strict accordance with the law. The taxation department has already proactively identified a substantial number of default cases."

Finance Minister Cheema made it clear that, wherever required, the state government will aggressively initiate the attachment and auction of properties to recover the outstanding tax amounts.

Reiterating the Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann led Punjab Government's broader vision, Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema said that the state government remains firmly committed to providing a fair, transparent, and highly efficient mechanism for resolving legacy tax disputes. He said, "This strategic approach not only aids the business community by wiping the slate clean but also fundamentally strengthens the fiscal position of the state. All eligible taxpayers are strongly urged to seize this extended deadline and settle their outstanding dues promptly to avoid any coercive recovery measures in the future."

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*Vigilance Bureau nabs Naib Court red handed accepting bribe of Rs 10,000/-*

Chandigarh, April 4, 2026:The Punjab Vigilance Bureau (VB) during its ongoing drive against corruption in the state, has apprehended Assistant Sub Inspector Tarlochan Singh posted as Naib Court in Ludhiana Court, red-handed while accepting a bribe of Rs. 10,000/-.

Disclosing this here today, an official spokesperson of the state VB said the above-mentioned accused has been arrested based on a complaint lodged by a resident of Chandigarh road, Ludhiana.

He said that the a case had registered against the complainant and his license pistal had also been taken over in the possession of police during the complainant's arrest. In this connection, complainant alleged that accused Naib Court demanded a bribe of Rs 10,000/- and Skechers Shoes in lieu of help him in his court case pertaining to return his license pistal. Complainant had recorded the entire conversation of demanding bribe and Skechers Shoes.

Unwilling to pay any illegal gratification, the complainant approached the Vigilance Bureau range Ludhiana. After a preliminary enquiry on his complaint, the VB team laid a trap during which the accused Naib Court was arrested red handed while accepting bribe money of Rs 10,000/- and Grey Colour Skecher Shoes from the complainant in presence of two official witnesses.

In this regard, a case under prevention of corruption act has been registered against the accused at VB police station Ludhiana and further investigation into this case is under progress.