Commissioners, ADCs (G & UD) to Ensure Timely Fogging to Prevent Malaria & Dengue*
Chandigarh, April 29, 2026:Cabinet Minister for Industries & Commerce, Investment Promotion, Power and Local Government, Shri Sanjeev Arora, today directed all Municipal Corporation Commissioners and Additional Deputy Commissioners (General & Urban Development) across Punjab to ensure comprehensive fogging operations in their respective areas to prevent the spread of malaria, dengue, and other vector-borne diseases.
The Minister emphasized that dengue and similar diseases, which are spread through mosquitoes, pose a serious threat to public health and can lead to loss of precious lives if not controlled effectively.
Keeping in view the health and safety of the public, Shri Arora issued strict instructions to initiate fogging drives immediately and ensure that these operations are carried out regularly and completed well before the peak season, extending up to October.
He further directed all concerned officers to closely monitor the situation and submit detailed reports on the action taken to his office at the earliest, ensuring accountability and timely implementation.
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*Under Bhagwant Mann Govt's Mukh Mantri Sehat Yojana, 4,600 Knees Replaced as Cashless Surgeries Restore Mobility for Thousands*
*— From years of silent pain to renewed movement, Punjab patients regain independence as free knee replacement surgeries bring relief under Mukh Mantri Sehat Yojana*
CHANDIGARH, April 29:For many, walking is ordinary. But for some, even a few steps are a daily struggle.
In Punjab, that struggle is now slowly turning into recovery, as thousands of patients suffering from severe knee pain are getting life-changing surgeries under the Bhagwant Mann Government’s Mukh Mantri Sehat Yojana (MMSY), a scheme that is making advanced treatment cashless and widely accessible.
For an ageing Sukhwinder Kaur, this shift brought immediate relief. “I had knee pain for two to three years. Some days I could barely walk,” she said. “Now after surgery, I feel very happy. Sehat card has given me my life back. I will now walk without pain.”
At 67, Paramjit Kaur from Punjab had almost stopped moving freely. Even crossing a room had become painful, and standing for a few minutes felt unbearable. For nearly a year, her life was defined by restricted movement and constant discomfort caused largely by osteoarthritis.
Her turning point came unexpectedly when her son, Jaswinder Singh, discovered the Sehat scheme through social media. “I learnt about the Mukh Mantri Sehat Yojana online. It took me a few days to arrange the documents,” he said. “Once we registered, the surgery was done. The doctors were very helpful, and my mother is now much better.”
Paramjit Kaur is now among thousands across Punjab who are regaining mobility through free knee replacements.
In just three months, nearly 4,600 knee replacement surgeries have been conducted under Mukh Mantri Sehat Yojana, reflecting a sharp rise in patients opting for treatment that was earlier delayed due to high costs.
Doctors say the change is clearly visible in hospitals. “We are seeing a surge in knee and hip replacement cases,” says Dr Karan Chopra, orthopaedic surgeon, Civil Hospital Barnala, “Most patients suffer from osteoarthritis, which damages cartilage and causes stiffness and severe pain.”
He explains that knee replacement surgery replaces damaged joint surfaces with metal and plastic components, restoring movement and reducing pain. “Earlier we used to perform around 80 surgeries a month. Now it is around 120 to 130,” he says.
One major reason for this increase is affordability. A knee replacement earlier cost between ₹50,000 to ₹1 lakh, forcing many patients to delay surgery for years.
“Previously, people were reluctant because of the expense,” Dr Chopra adds. “Now, with Aadhaar, voter ID, and Sehat card registration, the treatment is cashless. Patients do not have to pay.”
Similar stories are emerging from across Punjab. In Bathinda, Randhir Singh underwent knee surgery at AIIMS, while in Tarn Taran, Rajvinder Kaur received treatment at a district hospital under the same scheme. Families say the financial relief allowed them to choose treatment without hesitation. “My mother was in severe pain and could not do basic household work,” said Sehajpreet, Rajvinder’s daughter. “Because of the Sehat card, we did not worry about the cost. We are grateful such a scheme exists,” she added.
What is unfolding across Punjab is not just a rise in medical procedures, but a change in approach to pain itself, where treatment is no longer delayed due to cost, and mobility is no longer out of reach. In hospitals, the sound of helplessness is gradually being replaced by the sound of people walking again.
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*State Govt. Providing Rs.11,000 Monthly Pension to Freedom Fighters and Their Dependents: Mohinder Bhagat*
* Mann Government Committed to Welfare of Freedom Fighters and Their Families
Chandigarh, April 29:The Punjab Government, under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, is fully committed to the welfare of freedom fighters and their families. Stating this here today, Freedom Fighters, Defence Services Welfare and Horticulture Minister Mr. Mohinder Bhagat said that the State Government is providing a monthly pension of Rs. 11,000 to freedom fighters of Punjab, their widows, unmarried and unemployed daughters and unmarried unemployed sons.
The Minister said that freedom fighters made invaluable contributions to the country’s independence and their sacrifices will always be remembered. He said that the Punjab Government is making continuous efforts to ensure their honour and welfare.
Mr. Mohinder Bhagat said that the Punjab Government is working expeditiously for the welfare of every section of society, while every possible assistance is being extended to the families of freedom fighters.
He further said that the service and sacrifice of freedom fighters towards the nation continue to inspire the younger generation. The Punjab Government remains committed to upholding their dignity and honour.
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*Smiles Echo at Chhatbir Zoo During Heartwarming Interaction with Children*
*“Project Muskurahat” Brings New Hope to Children in Vulnerable Situations*
*From Education to Self-Reliance — Comprehensive Support Including ₹10 Lakh at Age 23*
*Every Needy Child Will Be Brought Under the Scheme: Dr. Baljit Kaur*
Chandigarh, April 29:The atmosphere at Chhatbir Zoo turned vibrant and heartwarming today as the Minister for Social Security, Women and Child Development, Dr. Baljit Kaur, shared a memorable and compassionate interaction with children living in vulnerable circumstances. The children joyfully explored the zoo, their smiles lighting up the surroundings, while the Minister spent meaningful time with them, engaging in warm conversations and listening attentively to their thoughts and experiences.
Adding a deeply personal touch to the visit, the Minister also shared lunch with the children. The gesture fostered a strong sense of belonging and emotional comfort among them, turning the occasion into a truly family-like gathering.
Addressing the gathering, Dr. Baljit Kaur stated that “Project Muskurahat” is not merely a government scheme, but a strong ray of hope for children who have lost parental care or support due to the COVID-19 pandemic, floods, or other natural calamities. She emphasized that the government is committed to ensuring that no child is deprived of opportunities to realise their dreams.
She further highlighted that the scheme extends beyond financial assistance by ensuring access to quality education, healthcare services, health insurance under Ayushman Bharat, psychological counselling, and skill development opportunities. These comprehensive interventions are aimed at creating a safe, nurturing, and enabling environment for the holistic development of children.
The Cabinet Minister informed that the government is providing special financial support to build a strong foundation for the future of these children. Under the scheme, each child will receive ₹10 lakh upon attaining the age of 23 to help them begin an independent and dignified life. Additionally, ₹20,000 per year is being provided to ensure uninterrupted school education, along with a monthly sponsorship of ₹4,000 until they reach adulthood. She reiterated that the government’s approach focuses not only on immediate relief but also on long-term empowerment through education and financial stability.
Dr. Baljit Kaur further stated that the scheme is being implemented with complete transparency and accountability. From identification by the district administration to verification by the Child Welfare Committee and direct benefit transfer, every stage is being carried out in a systematic manner. Continuous monitoring is also being ensured to guarantee that every child receives full and timely support.
Sharing key data, she informed that 43 children were orphaned due to COVID-19 and 4 children were affected by floods, all of whom have been covered under the scheme. Out of these, 42 children are already receiving financial assistance and support for higher education under various government initiatives. Additional provisions such as protection of property rights, reservation in higher educational institutions, and fee waivers are also being extended, reflecting the government’s comprehensive commitment towards child welfare.
Reaffirming the government’s resolve, the Minister stated that every orphaned and vulnerable child will be brought under the ambit of “Project Muskurahat.” She emphasized that the objective is to ensure that every eligible child benefits from the scheme and is provided with a secure, dignified, and assured future.
In an emotional note, Dr. Baljit Kaur said, “The support extended today becomes the foundation of a child’s confidence tomorrow.” She reiterated that bringing smiles to children’s faces and securing their future remains a top priority of the Punjab Government. During the visit, she also interacted individually with the children, understanding their personal situations and assuring them of the government’s unwavering support.