HARJOT BAINS DEMANDS UNION POWER MINISTER'S INTERVENTION TO RESTORE NANGAL'S LOST GLORY

• Proposes various development projects include comprehensive township redevelopment, development of Nangal Lake Riverfront, a scenic railway line & completion of Bhakra Nangal Dam Museum to put back Nangal on national tourist map

• Also demands a revised lease policy to address the concerns of thousands of Nangal families facing constant threats of eviction

Chandigarh, April 19:To restore Nangal's lost grandeur and improve the life of residents of the town, Punjab Education Minister and MLA from Sri Anandpur Sahib S. Harjot Singh Bains on Saturday called on Union Power Minister Sh. Manohar Lal Khattar at Chandigarh and demanded revitalisation of Nangal, a city built around the iconic Bhakra Nangal Dam.

While seeking personal intervention of the Union Minister to transform Nangal into a model city and a world-class tourist destination, S. Harjot Bains proposed projects including a comprehensive township redevelopment, the development of a Nangal Lake Riverfront, a scenic railway line as a tourist attraction, and the completion of the Bhakra Nangal Dam Museum.

Emphasising on the Nangal's historical significance, S. Harjot Singh Bains, highlighted its status as a shining example of India's post-independence progress. He reminisced about its golden era in the 1960s and 70s, when it was celebrated as one of India's most beautiful, well-planned and vibrant towns. Its tree-lined avenues, structured layout, and rich cultural life were a source of pride for Punjab and the whole Nation. However, the Education Minister lamented the town's gradual decline over the years, stating that it has become a "khandar town," a mere shadow of its glorious past.

Proposing a comprehensive Township Redevelopment, S. Harjot Singh Bains also mentioned that Nangal lacks even basic urban amenities. He pointed out the absence of cinema halls, shopping complexes, and recreational centres, despite the availability of ample vacant land. S. Harjot Singh Bains suggested that leasing a portion of the land transparently and proactively could transform the urban landscape, creating recreational zones, shopping arcades, urban parks, and employment hubs. It would not only enhance the quality of life for residents but also generate regular revenue for the Bhakra Beas Management Board (BBMB).

S. Harjot Singh Bains also advocates for the development of the Nangal Lake Riverfront, while highlighting the River view Road, adjoining Sadan, as a breathtaking natural vista that is currently lying vacant and neglected. He said that transforming this stretch into a world-class riverfront, a serene promenade with walking tracks, cycling paths, eateries, and cultural spaces that would attract tourists and provide leisure for locals.

S. Harjot Singh Bains also proposed a scenic railway line as a tourist attraction and suggested utilising the old railway line from Nangal to Bhakra Dam, which runs through scenic terrain, as a major tourist draw. He said that a new glass-roof heritage train or a light rail service along this route would offer a unique experience and put Nangal back on the national tourism map.

Seeking the completion of the Bhakra Nangal Dam Museum, S. Bains highlighted the museum's long-delayed completion despite multiple foundation stones being laid over the years. He stated that the museum, once completed, can serve as a centre of learning and pride, showcasing India's engineering marvels and post-independence development history. He called for the Union Power Minister’s personal intervention to ensure that this long-pending dream is finally fulfilled. He said that the iconic Bhakra Nangal Dam, one of India's greatest infrastructural feats, deserves to be illuminated and beautified. He suggested a strategic lighting plan that could turn it into a night-time attraction, similar to iconic dams and riverfronts around the world.

S. Harjot Singh Bains also sought a transparent and modern lease policy for Nangal and underlined the need for a revised lease policy to address the concerns of thousands of families who have been living in Nangal for decades but face constant threats of eviction. He said that a lack of clarity in the lease policy creates unrest and discourages private investment. He advocates for a transparent, humane, and revenue-generating lease policy that would provide security to residents, resolve long-pending legal disputes, and allow BBMB to earn stable rent.

Punjab Education Minister passionately appealed to Sh. Manohar Lal Khattar for intervention to revive Nangal, while stating that Nangal doesn't seek mercy, but rather a revival and a rewrite of its destiny.

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Yudh Nashian Virudh: illegal structure of drug peddlers demolished in Model House

Commissionerate Police teiterates commitment to eradicating drugs from the city

Information related to drugs can be shared via Punjab Government's WhatsApp number 9779-100-200: ACP

Chandigarh/ Jalandhar, April 19:Under the Punjab Government’s ongoing ‘Yudh Nashian Virudh’ campaign, the Commissionerate Police Jalandhar, led by Police Commissioner Dhanpreet Kaur, took yet another significant step against drug traffickers on Saturday. As part of a joint drive by the Municipal Corporation and Commissionerate Police Jalandhar to demolish illegal encroachments of drug peddlers, a property built on government land in Model House, under Police Station Division No. 5, was demolished.

Providing details about the action, ACP (West) Swarnjit Singh stated that after receiving information about illegal construction on government land, the structure was razed by Municipal Corporation officials in the presence of duty magistrate.

He further shared that police investigations revealed that Lakhbir Kaur Rekha, her husband Sandeep Kumar, and a relative Suraj (who had been residing at the location) all have three cases each registered against them under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act.

It was also informed that Rekha is currently lodged in Kapurthala jail in connection with an NDPS case.

Reiterating Commissionerate Police commitment to making the city drug-free, ACP Swarnjit Singh urged the residents of Jalandhar to support the state government’s 'Yudh Nashian Virudh' initiative. He encouraged the public to report any drug-related information to the Punjab Government’s WhatsApp number 9779-100-200, assuring that the identity of informants would be kept strictly confidential.

Meanwhile, residents of the Model House area have welcomed the action taken against drug traffickers.

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AGTF BUSTS EXTORTION RACKET; PUNJAB POLICE ARRESTS 24 YEAR OLD MASTERMIND

ARRESTED ACCUSED DEMANDED 1 CR EXTORTION MONEY

CHANDIGARH, April 19: In a major crackdown on organised crime amidst the ongoing drive to make Punjab a safe and secure state as per directions of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, Punjab Police’s Anti-Gangster Task Force (AGTF) has arrested a 24-year-old man for attempting to extort money from a local automobile showroom owner by impersonating as the brother of foreign-based gangster Goldy Brar, said Director General of Police (DGP) Punjab Gaurav Yadav here on Saturday.

The accused, identified as Lovejeet Singh, a resident of Bargari, Faridkot, had demanded ₹1 crore as extortion money and issued death threats to the complainant and his family if the amount was not paid.

DGP Gaurav Yadav said that the preliminary probe has revealed that the accused used virtual numbers and social media applications to mask his identity and make extortion calls in an attempt to evade police detection.

While cautioning people to be wary of fake extortion calls, he said that many recent cases, it has been observed that unknown criminals, without any links with any gangs or gangsters, are exploiting public fear by falsely claiming such associations. “We appeal to the people to immediately inform the police whenever extortion calls are received so that law can take its course ,” said the DGP.

Pertinently, three months ago, the AGTF had busted a fake extortion racket being operated from Malaysia, targeting singers, businessmen, and affluent individuals across Punjab. The accused impersonated as members of the Lawrence Bishnoi gang, using fake social media profiles to intimidate potential victims and their families to extort money.

Sharing operation details, Additional Director General of Police (ADGP) AGTF Promod Ban said that the AGTF had received a complaint regarding extortion and acting swiftly, police teams from AGTF traced the origin of the calls through technical inputs and human intelligence, leading to identification of accused Lovejeet. The latter was apprehended from Mohali, he said.

The ADGP said that further investigations are underway to uncover any additional links or crimes committed by the accused.

AIG AGTF Gurmeet Chauhan said that preliminary investigation has revealed that accused Lovejeet, lured by social media and a desire for a lavish lifestyle, resorted to crime. “He used virtual numbers and encrypted apps to mask his identity while making extortion calls in an attempt to evade police detention," he said.

A case FIR No. 94 dated 17/04/2025 has been registered under sections 308(2) and 351(2) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) at Police Station Sohana in SAS Nagar.

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TO GIVE BOOST TO COTTON FARMING PUNJAB GOVT TO PROVIDE 33% SUBSIDY: GURMEET SINGH KHUDIYAN

PUNJAB GOVT AIMS TO INCREASE COTTON FARMING AREA BY 1.25 LAKH HECTARE

Chandigarh, April 19:In a significant move to promote crop diversification and increase the acreage under ‘white gold’ crop, the Punjab Government has decided to provide a 33% subsidy on BT cotton hybrid seeds recommended by Punjab Agricultural University (PAU), Ludhiana, announced S. Gurmeet Singh Khudian, Minister of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, Punjab.

He said that Rs.20 crore has been allocated for the subsidy program, entirely funded by the Chief Minister S. Bhagwant Singh Mann led Punjab Government, would reduce the financial burden on cotton growers, while simultaneously discouraging the cultivation of non-recommended hybrids to enable them to adopt high-yielding and pest-resistant BT cotton hybrid seeds.

S. Gurmeet Singh Khudian said that the Agriculture department has fixed a target to increase the cotton crop area to at least 1.25 lakh hectares this year. Cotton, a crucial kharif crop in the south-western districts of the state, presents a viable alternative to water-guzzling paddy crop, contributing to both agricultural diversification and economic growth.

Urging the state farmers to take advantage of this opportunity and adopt the recommended BT cotton hybrid seeds, the Agriculture Minister said, “CM Mann led Punjab Government is committed to supporting our farmers and promoting sustainable agricultural practices. This subsidy program is a crucial step towards achieving crop diversification, besides ensuring the prosperity of our cotton industry.”

Dr. Basant Garg, Administrative Secretary of the Agriculture Department, informed that the subsidy program is limited to a maximum of five acres or ten packets (each weighing 475gm) of cotton seeds per farmer. He appealed the farmers to obtain original bills for all BT cotton seed purchases, while directing the department officials to conduct regular monitoring and inspections to prevent the entry of spurious seeds from neighbouring states. He warned that any laxity in enforcing these regulations would result in strict action.

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BIG ACHIEVEMENT IN POWER SECTOR; PSPCL EARNINGS UP BY 175 Cr

REVENUE GROWTH SHOWS AAP GOVT’S COMMITMENT TOWARDS CORRUPTION FREE GOVERNANCE : HARBHAJAN SINGH ETO

Chandigarh, April 19:Punjab Power Minister Harbhajan Singh ETO today said that Punjab State Power Corporation Limited (PSPCL) is making exceptional strides in enhancing consumer services, boosting revenue and implementing comprehensive operational reforms.

In a statement released here, the Power Minister underlined that PSPCL's Commercial Department has achieved numerous significant milestones during the previous financial year through December 31, 2024, implementing strategic initiatives designed to elevate consumer experience and streamline operational processes.

Regarding the One Time Settlement (OTS) Scheme, the Minister said that PSPCL launched this initiative on September 23, 2024, applicable to all categories of defaulting consumers except Agricultural Pump-set and Government connections. The scheme was designed to resolve outstanding dues as of September 30, 2023, offering substantial relief through reduced late payment interest and waiver of levied surcharges. The program remained active until December 22, 2024.

The Cabinet Minister detailed the implementation of Voluntary Disclosure Schemes (VDS), noting that the VDS for Agricultural Consumers enabled farmers to regularize additional motive load on Agricultural Tubewell Connections (as of March 7, 2024) at highly concessional rates, which was Rs.2500/BHP instead of Rs.4750/BHP for Service Connection Charges and Rs.200/BHP instead of Rs.400/BHP for Security Consumption. Available until August 22, 2024, the scheme garnered overwhelming response with 84,118 agricultural consumers enhancing 3,68,802 BHP of motor load, resulting in cumulative savings of Rs.82.98 crore for farmers.

Elaborating on the VDS for Domestic Supply (DS) and Non-Residential Supply (NRS) Consumers, he said that this initiative facilitated regularization of additional load for DS connections up to 50 kW and NRS connections up to 20 kW (as of March 7, 2024). The scheme offered 50% reduction on Service Connection Charges for additional load and remained available until August 22, 2024. Key achievements included 3,15,164 DS consumers and 15,496 NRS consumers availing the scheme, enhancement of 756,119 kW (DS) and 47,676 kW (NRS) loads and collection of Rs.85.73 crore and Rs.7.31 crore respectively toward Service Connection Charges and Security Consumption.

The Minister further said that during this period, several consumer-centric and industry-friendly initiatives were implemented to enhance ease of doing business and improve service delivery. Under industrial reforms, notable advancements included expedited demand extension, where additional Contract Demand up to 10% of sanctioned demand or 500 kVA (whichever is less) is now processed within 15 days, with consumers eligible for this benefit once every three years. Besides this, feasibility clearance requirements have been eliminated for applications with total demand between 500 kVA and 2000 kVA, dramatically reducing connection processing time. For loads up to 150 kW/kVA, normative costing has been introduced—charges are now calculated on a per kW/kVA basis regardless of line length, eliminating the need for separate demand notices in these cases. Timelines for issuing demand notices and feasibility clearance have also been shortened. Further, the voltage level capacity at 11 kV has been expanded from 4 MVA to 5 MVA, enhancing infrastructure capabilities.

The Power Minister also highlighted substantial support extended to seasonal industries and solar consumers through specialized reforms. According to Commercial Circular No. 07/2023, the settlement period for seasonal industries—including cotton ginning facilities, rice shellers, rice bran stabilization units and kinnow grading and waxing centers—has been revised from the previous cycle of October 1 to September 30 to the new period of April 1 to March 31, better aligning with operational requirements. Similarly, several measures were implemented to streamline rooftop solar plant installations. Systems up to 10 kWp now require no technical feasibility clearance, while for plants exceeding 10 kWp, the feasibility clearance timeline has been reduced to 15 days.

Power Minister Harbhajan Singh ETO also highlighted a major step in digital transformation initiative with the implementation of Phase-I of the Aadhaar-based e-KYC system. This initiative, aimed at simplifying the application process for new electricity connections, has been integrated into PSPCL's Single Window System for all Domestic Supply and Non-Residential Supply connections up to 100 kW/kVA. With this innovation, applicants choosing Aadhaar verification no longer need to submit identity proof or physically sign the Agreement and Acceptance form. The entire process is now authenticated through secure Aadhaar-based e-KYC, enabling paperless and streamlined processing, representing a significant advancement toward a more consumer-friendly and digitally empowered service environment.

The Power Minister stated, "Under the visionary leadership of Chief Minister S. Bhagwant Singh Mann, Punjab is experiencing an unprecedented transformation in its power sector. The recent achievements of PSPCL's Commercial Department in FY 2024-25 exemplify our commitment to enhancing consumer services, increasing revenue and implementing operational reforms. These milestones not only demonstrate our dedication to providing uninterrupted power supply to farmers during the paddy season but also highlight our investments in digital transformation and environmental sustainability. Together, we are building a resilient and efficient power infrastructure that aligns with the aspirations of our citizens."

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Punjab Mandi Board Secretary Ramvir conducts surprise visit to various grain markets of Sangrur district

Secretary says, Punjab government standby the farmers during tough times

Following the directions of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, every grain of the farmers' crop will be procured without any hassle

Action will be taken against the agency if lifting is not done within 72 hours

Chandigarh/Dhuri/ Sangrur, April 19:Following the directions of Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, Punjab Mandi Board Secretary Mr. Ramvir conducted a surprise visit to the grain markets of Sangrur district. During his visit to Dhuri and Sangrur grain markets, the Mandi Board Secretary also inspected the moisture content in the wheat crop brought by the farmers to the grain markets.

Mr. Ramvir said that due to the heavy storm and rain that occurred recently, some of the wheat piles in the low-lying areas of the mandis were affected, but the Mandi Board employees and commission agents have immediately taken preventive measures to curtail the damage.

He said that the water was drained from the mandis within two hours. The Secretary instructed the Mandi Board officials to remain ready in the mandis for 24 hours and ensure every required facility for the farmers coming to the mandis. He said that in case the procured crop would not be lifted within 72 hours, a notice will be issued to the concerned procurement agency.

Talking to the farmers, Punjab Mandi Board Secretary Mr. Ramvir said that the Punjab Government is standing with the farmers at all times.

On this occasion, Chief Minister Field Officer Karamjit Singh said that the Punjab government has given orders to complete the entire wheat season smoothly. He said that the officers have been instructed to conduct the procurement process of the dry crop brought by the farmers to the grain markets within 24 hours, to make payment within 48 hours and to lift the purchased crop within 72 hours.

On this occasion, Avtar Singh Elwal, Chairman of Market Committee Sangrur, assured on behalf of the Punjab government that the government is committed to purchasing every grain of the farmers brought to the grain markets.

On this occasion, the Secretary Mandi Board also held a review meeting with the officers and commission agents of the Mandi Board at the Market Committee office.

During this, SDM Dhuri Vikas Hira, XEN Mandi Board Puneet Sharma, District Mandi Officer Kuljit Singh and other officers were also present.

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PUNJAB POLICE CRACKDOWN: BKI TERROR MODULES BUSTED WITH ISI LINKS

POLICE TEAMS RECOVER TWO RPGs INCLUDING LAUNCHER, TWO IEDs, TWO HAND GRENADES, 2KG RDX, WEAPONS, VEHICLES, ETC.

CHANDIGARH, April 19:Amidst the ongoing drive to make Punjab a safe and secure state as per directions of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, Punjab Police has foiled a major conspiracy to create disturbance in the state by successfully busting two separate ISI-backed terror modules being operated by Babbar Khalsa International (BKI) from abroad and recovered huge amount of arms and explosives including two rocket propelled grenades (RPGs) including one launcher, Director General of Police (DGP) Punjab Gaurav Yadav here on Saturday.

Pertinently, in two separate intelligence led operations, Counter Intelligence (CI) Jalandhar and District Police Batala have dismantled both the modules effectively arresting 13 accused persons including one minor.

“The terror modules, sponsored by the Pak-based ISI, were being controlled by BKI, with two key operational nodes—France-based Satnam Singh alias Satta and Greece-based Jaswinder Singh alias Mannu Agwan,” said the DGP, while adding that their role was earlier also figured in various operations, with accused Satnam’s role came into notice in 2010 in IED and RDX recovery case.

He said that apart from recovering two RPGs including one launcher, police teams have also recovered two Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) each weighing 2.5 kg, two hand grenades with detonator, 2 kg of RDX along with remote control device, five pistols— including Beretta and Glock— along with six magazines and 44 cartridges and one wireless communication set, besides impounding their three vehicles.

DGP Gaurav Yadav said that with busting of these modules, Punjab Police has foiled the Pak-ISI masterminded conspiracy to disturb peace and harmony in the border state.

Sharing operation details of the first module, AIG CI Jalandhar Navjot Singh Mahal said that in an intel-based operation, police teams have arrested Jagroop Singh of Basti Amritsarian in Hoshiarpur, Jatinder Singh alias Honey of Daburji in Kapurthala, Harpreet Singh of Dharamkot Hoshiarpur and Jagjeet Singh of Kapurthala, and recovered arms and explosives from their possession.

He said that preliminary investigations revealed that these accused were working on the instructions of France-based Satnam Satta. Further investigations are being conducted to unearth this entire network and efforts are being made to discover the previous crimes committed by the accused, he added.

Sharing operation details of second module, Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Batala Suhail Qasim Mir said that in a week-long intelligence led operation, police teams have arrested nine persons including a 17-years-old juvenile. The other eight arrested persons have been identified as Pawanpreet Singh, Balbir Kumar alias Varun, Gomji alias Gotta, Gurpreet Singh alias Gopi, Ajaypal Singh, Rahul alias Bhaia and Johanson, all residents of Batala and Jatinder, a resident of Kapurthala.

The SSP said that inquiry is ongoing on various leads and more arrests are expected in coming days.

In this regard, two separate FIRs have been registered under the relevant sections of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) and the Explosives Act at Police Stations SSOC Amritsar and Batala, respectively.