HERC Chairman meets Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini, Discusses key issues in Power Sector
Repairing thermal plants, promoting solar energy, and effective implementation of central schemes were discussed
Under Section 86(2) of the Electricity Act 2003, HERC provides Technical Recommendations to State Government for Power Sector Improvement
Chandigarh Nov 16 - The Chairman of the Haryana Electricity Regulatory Commission (HERC), Sh. Nand Lal Sharma, called on Haryana Chief Minister Sh. Nayab Singh Saini on Friday evening. This was the first meeting between the HERC Chairman and the Chief Minister following the formation of the newly elected government.
During the meeting, several significant issues were discussed, including improvements in the power sector, the promotion of solar energy, improving thermal power plants, and the effective implementation of central government schemes related to the power sector. The importance of reducing AT&C losses was also discussed, emphasizing its role in enhancing electricity distribution efficiency, minimizing revenue gaps, and ensuring a more reliable power supply in Haryana.
It is noteworthy that under Section 86(2) of the Electricity Act, 2003, the State Electricity Regulatory Commission provides technical advice to the state government on matters such as restructuring, reorganization, production, transmission, and distribution of electricity. In this context, HERC Chairman Sharma’s meeting with Chief Minister Saini highlighted the need to improve Haryana’s thermal plants, enhance solar energy usage, and implement rooftop solar initiatives more efficiently. The discussion also emphasized the revolutionary implementation of the Prime Minister’s “Har Ghar Surya Yojana”.
Mr. Sharma informed the Chief Minister that during his tenure as CMD of Satluj Jal Vidyut Nigam (SJVN), his significant contributions led to the successful formulation of the scheme in collaboration with the then Union Power Minister. He added that the scheme will prove to be a milestone in achieving the Government of India’s target of generating 500 GW of green energy by 2030. As the current Chairman of HERC, his responsibility is to formulate effective relevant regulations and ensure their implementation in accordance with the Electricity Act of 2003.
Mr. Sharma elaborated on the "Har Ghar Surya Yojana," stating that it is an initiative of the Government of India under which solar panels will be installed on homes to provide free electricity. The scheme was launched by Prime Minister Sh Narendra Modi on February 13, 2024. The initiative aims to bring light to the lives of underprivileged families. Subsidies are provided to Antyodaya families for installing solar panels, potentially saving the central government approximately Rs 75,000 crore annually.
In addition to this, the meeting also addressed the current challenges in the power sector and their solutions. On July 31 this year, the state’s peak power demand reached 14,662 MW, which was effectively managed. Currently, Haryana has an installed power capacity of 14,943.92 MW, and the number of electricity consumers in the state has grown to approximately 8.1 million.
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Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini wishes mediapersons on National Press Day
Chief Minister announces Cashless Medical Facility for Journalists on National Press Day
State Government continuously implements welfare initiatives for Journalists
Demand for housing society of journalists is also under consideration of the government
Chandigarh, November 16 – Haryana Chief Minister Sh Nayab Singh Saini, while extending his warm greetings to the media fraternity on National Press Day, today announced the introduction of a medical cashless facility for journalists, similar to the benefits provided to government employees. In addition, in response to the request of Journalists' Housing Society, the Chief Minister assured that the matter is currently under consideration and the government is seriously exploring options to address it.
The Chief Minister was speaking at an event organized here to mark National Press Day, where he acknowledged and praised the invaluable contribution of journalists to the nation, society, and the public at large. He commended the media for its active role in nation-building, highlighting the crucial role of journalists in upholding democratic values and ensuring transparency.
He said that in our democratic system, journalism is considered the fourth pillar of democracy and is widely recognized as a vigilant watchdog of society. Newspapers and magazines serve as a vital link between the government and the public. Journalists play a crucial role in informing the public about the government's progressive and welfare initiatives, as well as in voicing the public's concerns to the government.
Referring to the respect and recognition granted to journalists by the Haryana Government, Sh Nayab Singh Saini said that the current state government is committed to their welfare. He said that former Chief Minister Mr Manohar Lal brought the demand for pension of journalists to a conclusion. Currently, journalists over the age of 60 are entitled to a monthly pension of Rs 15,000. Also, the state government has approved two significant amendments to the pension scheme. These include the continuation of pension benefits even if a criminal case is filed against a journalist, and the provision that more than one member of a journalist's family can now receive pension benefits. Furthermore, accredited journalists are entitled to free travel for up to 4,000 km per year on Haryana Roadways buses, including Volvo buses. The state government remains committed to the welfare of journalists, and in the future, all pending demands of the journalists will be carefully considered and addressed.
The Chief Minister said that in today's era of social media, the responsibility of journalists has increased even further. He expressed hope that journalists will continue their work with the same dedication, helping to inform and empower the people, the nation, and the country. He also expressed confidence that, as the fourth pillar of democracy, the media will uphold its reputation and continue to serve the nation with integrity.
On this occasion, the OSD to Chief Minister, Sh. Virender Singh Badhkhalsa, Additional Director Information, Public Relations, and Language Department, Mrs. Varsha Khangwal, Deputy Director Sh. Devender Sharma, and other officials were also present.
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Subsidy Scheme for Haryana Matrushakti Udyamita Yojana launched to empower womenBeneficiaries will receive a 7 percent interest subsidy for 36 months
Chandigarh, November 16- As part of the Haryana ‘Uday campaign’, the Haryana government has introduced a new scheme through the Haryana Women Development Corporation. The "Haryana Matrushakti Udyamita Yojana Subsidy Scheme" which aims to empower women in rural and urban areas, enhancing their economic and social status.
Under this scheme, women can start their own businesses such as auto-rickshaws, taxis, salons, beauty parlours, tailoring, boutiques, photocopy shops, making papads and pickles, sweet shops, food stalls, ice cream units, biscuit-making, handloom products, bag manufacturing, and canteen services, among others.
Loan Process for the Haryana Matrushakti Udyamita Yojana
The loan process for this scheme includes providing a 7 percent interest subsidy on the bank's prevailing interest rate for three years by Haryana Women Development Corporation to beneficiaries who repay on time. The maximum loan amount under the scheme is Rs.5 lakh. The moratorium period will be three months after disbursement of the loan.
Eligibility Criteria
Sharing information in this regard an official spokesperson of the Haryana Women Development Corporation said that the scheme is open only to women who are permanent residents of Haryana and have a family income of Rs. 5 lakh or less, as per their Parivar Pehchan Patra. Apart from this, no subsidy will be given for the interest accrued on the delay in case of default in payment of EMI. The corporation will offer a 7 percent interest subsidy to the beneficiaries for 36 months. Also, Applicants must be between 18 and 60 years of age to apply for the loan.
Required Documents
To apply for a loan, beneficiaries must submit the following documents: an application form, ration card or Parivar Pehchan Patra, Aadhaar card, two passport-size photographs, residential certificate, a project report, and a training or experience certificate.
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Haryana CM directs installation of white stripes on National and State Highways to enhance Road Safety during Fog Season
Chandigarh, Nov 16 – In a proactive move to improve road safety during the current weather situation and fog season, Haryana Chief Minister Sh Nayab Singh Saini has directed the concerned authorities to install white reflective stripes on all national highways, state highways, and major roads across the state. This measure is aimed at enhancing visibility and ensuring the safety of commuters during periods of reduced visibility caused by dense fog.
The Chief Minister directed to take immediate action to ensure the installation of these white stripes, which will serve as an effective guide for drivers, reducing the risk of accidents during adverse weather conditions. He further instructed the relevant officials to complete the task without delay and take all necessary steps to ensure the stripes are visible and functional.
Sh. Nayab Singh Saini highlighted that the state government is committed to improving road safety infrastructure and will continue to implement measures that prioritize the well-being of citizens. He also urged all road users to exercise caution and follow traffic safety guidelines during foggy conditions.
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Irrigation and Water Resources Minister held a review meeting with MICADA and HWRA officers
Micro-Irrigation project should be promoted, Comprehensive plan to be prepared for water segregation says Shruti Choudhry
Smt. Shruti Choudhry vows to fulfil vision of Late Chaudhary Bansi Lal by ensuring water for every field in Haryana
Chandigarh, November 16: Haryana Irrigation and Water Resources Minister, Smt. Shruti Choudhry said that ensuring irrigation water reaches every field in the state would be her top priority. She expressed her commitment to fulfilling the vision of her late grandfather, Ch Bansi Lal, who was instrumental in channelising the water courses across Haryana.
Smt. Choudhry made these remarks while presiding over a review meeting with officers of the Micro Irrigation Command Area (MICADA) and Haryana Water Resources Authority (HWRA) here today.
The Minister directed the officers to expedite the implementation of micro-irrigation projects, including drip irrigation and other water conservation initiatives. She also highlighted the importance of collaboration between the Irrigation and Water Resources Department and the Public Health Engineering Department to address the growing issue of waterlogging.
Smt. Choudhry further directed that a comprehensive survey be conducted within a week to assess water segregation across the state. The survey will focus on ensuring that industrial wastewater and treated water from sewage treatment plants (STPs) and common effluent treatment plants (CETPs) do not mix with clean water sources.
During the meeting, officers informed the Minister that MICADA is currently promoting 27 micro-irrigation projects across the state. Of these, 11 projects have been completed, while 13 are ongoing, and work on 3 new projects will begin soon. Additionally, under the Government of India’s ‘Per Drop-More Crop’ scheme, MICADA has been receiving subsidy components through the Department of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare.
Under the 'Atal Bhujal Yojana,' MICADA has been working since 2021 to cover 23,800 acres with micro-irrigation systems. Next year, the authority plans to expand this coverage to 46,258 hectares through the establishment of on-farm ponds. These ponds will provide irrigation water via drip systems, with a total project expenditure of Rs 518.97 crore. So far, 4,368 on-farm ponds have been established across Haryana.
Smt. Choudhry also acknowledged the critical role played by Beldars and Canal Guards in monitoring command systems and water resources. She stressed that these positions are vital to the department’s operations and directed that the vacant Beldar posts be filled promptly. Beldars should be equipped with GPS devices for better tracking and management of water resources, she added.
The Minister also called for the identification of new water storage projects, urging the Haryana Ground Water Regulatory Authority to take the lead in this regard. She announced plans to hold weekly video conferences with all Superintending Engineers (SEs) and Executive Engineers (XENs) to review canal water availability and receive feedback on ongoing water management efforts.
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State Government committed for holistic development of villages: Rajesh Nagar
Minister of State Rajesh Nagar inaugurates development projects worth Rs. 7 crores in Neemka Village, Faridabad
Chandigarh, November 16- Haryana Minister of State for Food, Civil Supplies and Consumer Affairs, Sh. Rajesh Nagar said that the state government is dedicated to ensuring holistic development and fulfilling the needs of every village in Faridabad.
Sh. Rajesh Nagar inaugurated the construction work of various development projects worth Rs.7 crores in Neemka village,Faridabad today.
He said that several welfare schemes by the central and state governments have been implemented swiftly, benefiting the common people. He assured that there would be no shortage of funds for development projects. Roads and drainage systems, which are crucial for better connectivity and water management, are being constructed on a priority basis.
Sh. Nagar further stated that the present central and state governments are committed to the holistic development of the people. Under the leadership of Prime Minister, Sh. Narendra Modi's vision of 'Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas' and Chief Minister, Sh. Nayab Singh Saini, Haryana is experiencing rapid growth and progress.
The development projects inaugurated in Neemka village include the renovation of chaupal, pond cleaning, construction of drains near the cremation ground, and the establishment of two tube wells.
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Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare Minister, Sh. Shyam Singh Rana, expressed his heartfelt gratitude to the people of his constituency for their trust and respect in electing him as their representative.
Chandigarh, November 16 - Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare Minister, Sh. Shyam Singh Rana, expressed his heartfelt gratitude to the people of his constituency for their trust and respect in electing him as their representative. He assured the people that he will work hard to keep their faith and expectations intact. He said that he will focus on resolving public issues and promoting maximum development in the constituency.
A felicitation ceremony of Agriculture Minister Sh. Shyam Singh Rana was organised by the Grain Market Association in Radaur on Saturday.
During the event, the Agriculture Minister heard the grievances put up by the local representatives and said that the demands of improving drainage for rainwater in the grain market, relocating the vegetable market from the grain market due to limited space, to establish new toilets and bathing facilities for market labourers, and building another covered shed in the market as there is presently only one, will be fulfilled, said the Minister.
Minister, Sh. Shyam Singh Rana stated that, under the leadership of Chief Minister, Sh.Nayab Singh Saini, efforts will be made to take Haryana forward while including all sections of society. The state government is committed to the welfare of every group. The BJP government has undertaken development work in all constituencies without discrimination, and this approach will continue, prioritising developmental projects.
MLA, Yamunanagar Sh. Ghanshyam Arora stated that with the support of the people, the BJP has made history by forming the government in the state for a third consecutive time with majority. He further said that Haryana is the leading state in purchasing farmers’ crops at the Minimum Support Price (MSP) and assured that every grain produced by the farmers will be bought by the government.
She also shared her plans for a surprise visit to HathniKund barrage in Yamuna Nagar , STP and CETP in Panipat soon for the inspection of the command area system.
The meeting was attended by the Chairperson, Haryana Water Resources Authority (HWRA), Smt. Keshni Anand Arora, Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Satbir Singh Kadian, and other senior officers.