*Haryana to employ Yoga Sahayaks in schools to teach yoga to students*

Chandigarh, April 17 – The Haryana Government has decided to impart yoga in the government schools of the state. For this, 857 Yoga Sahayaks will now be employed at PM SHRI, Model Sanskriti and cluster schools of the State.

The decision was taken during a review meeting of Haryana Yoga Aayog chaired by Additional Chief Secretary, AYUSH Department, Sh. Sudhir Rajpal. During the meeting, the Additional Chief Secretary informed that an International Meditation Centre will be set up in the State. He directed officials of Kurukshetra Development Board and Shri Krishna AYUSH University to identify land for this purpose and expedite the process. He also directed the Panchayat Department to undertake renovation of Yoga Gymnasiums constructed across Haryana and submit a report in this regard within a week. A fund of over Rs 8 crore has been sanctioned for this purpose.

To enhance the yoga proficiency of AYUSH doctors in the State, the government will send them for specialized training at renowned institutions such as the Patanjali Yoga Kendra in Haridwar and the Yoga Training Centre in Patti Kalyana at Panipat.

Dr. Jaideep Arya, Chairman, Haryana Yoga Aayog, informed that on May 27, 2025, 25 days before International Yoga Day, a state-level programme will be organized where 2000 AYUSH Yoga Assistants, AYUSH Department officials and representatives of Yoga institutions will participate in Surya Namaskar Abhiyan. The departments/institutions/players doing the best work under Surya Namaskar Abhiyan-2025 will be honoured in the respective district or state-level programme on the occasion of International Yoga Day on June 21, 2025. Dr. Jaideep Arya also led a delegation of non-official members and met Chief Minister Sh. Nayab Singh Saini in Chandigarh today.

The meeting also highlighted that 4-day Yoga Shivirs (workshops) have already commenced across all districts of the state, starting 75 days before International Yoga Day. Additionally, plans for the construction of 1,000 new Yoga Gymnasiums in the fiscal year 2025-26 were discussed, with the initial facilities to be operated from schools.

Regarding construction of AYUSH Yoga Centers on the land of Urban Local Bodies at all district levels, the Additional Chief Secretary said this work has already been done in Ambala and Sonipat and the parks under HUDA can be used for setting up such centres.

Regarding proposal to open a Yoga and Naturopathy College, the Additional Chief Secretary asked officials to study the model of Government College of Yoga Education & Health in Sector 23, Chandigarh, and make efforts to find suitable land in Naraingarh or nearby areas for this purpose.

Emphasizing the importance of integrating yoga into the education system, Sh. Rajpal stressed the need for capacity building among physical education teachers in schools. He urged the creation of a model syllabus for yoga, which would be shared with all universities for inclusion in the curriculum.

The meeting also discussed inclusion of Non-Olympic sports like Yoga in Haryana Sports Department's Sports Policy-2015 and providing benefits like gradation, cash prize, scholarship etc. to the players of Yogasana sport equally like other prestigious sports.

Sh. Sanjeev Verma, Director General, AYUSH, Sh. DK Behera, Director, Development and Panchayats, Sh. Jitender Dahiya, Director, Secondary Education, Dr Vandana Disodia, Additional Director, AYUSH, Dr. Roshan Lal, Vice-Chairman, Haryana Yoga Aayog, Dr Rajkumar, Registrar, Dr Sushma Nain, Deputy Director, AYUSH, Dr Dilip Misra, State Administrative Officer, AYUSH and senior officers of various departments were present in the meeting.

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Haryana to celebrate International Day for Monuments and Sites

Chandigarh, April 17 - On the occasion of the International Day for Monuments and Sites, the Haryana Tourism Corporation is set to celebrate the day in a grand manner, emphasizing its continuous dedication to preserving and promoting the state’s rich cultural heritage. It highlights its ongoing efforts to preserve and promote the state's rich cultural heritage. This year's theme reminds everyone about the importance of protecting monuments for future generations — a commitment that Haryana Tourism has been working on actively across the state.

Pinjore Gardens (Yadavindra Gardens), located just 22 kilometers from Chandigarh, is one of the finest examples of Mughal garden architecture in India. Built in the 17th century by Nawab Fidai Khan, the garden features beautiful terraced levels, fountains, and historic pavilions. Adjacent to the gardens is the Bhima Devi Museum, which blends archaeology with the natural beauty of the gardens. Haryana Tourism has now started promoting Pinjore Gardens as a heritage wedding destination, allowing people to experience royal celebrations in a historic setting. Under the Swadesh Darshan Scheme, major development works are being taken up at Pinjore Gardens, including better parking, upgraded public amenities, and overall rejuvenation of the garden. Plans are also being made to organize music festivals, along with the popular Mango Mela and Baisakhi celebrations at the site. Organizing such events not only creates awareness among the public but also helps in conserving and maintaining the heritage site.

Another important heritage property being promoted is the Raja Nahar Singh Palace at Ballabgarh. This historic palace tells the story of Raja Nahar Singh, a brave warrior from the 1857 First War of Independence. Today, it functions as a heritage hotel and cultural venue managed by Haryana Tourism. The department is planning to develop it further as a popular wedding and cultural event destination, with support from various stakeholder agencies. Public suggestions will also be invited for better management and conservation of the site. Similarly, Haryana Tourism is working to promote Madhogarh Fort as a major tourist attraction. The fort, located in Mahendragarh district, showcases Rajput and Maratha architectural styles and offers visitors a chance to experience the rich history of the region.

Apart from heritage sites, Haryana is also developing adventure tourism locations like Hathnikund and Tikkar Tal to attract more tourists and create a variety of experiences for visitors.

Studies and global research show that heritage conservation not only preserves history but also boosts local economies, creates jobs, strengthens community pride, and promotes sustainable tourism. Organizing cultural events and responsible tourism activities helps protect these sites and pass on their stories to future generations.

On this International Day for Monuments and Sites, Haryana Tourism Corporation reaffirms its commitment to protect, promote, and celebrate the state's priceless heritage, aligning its efforts with global conservation goals set by UNESCO.

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27 delegates from 13 countries call on Haryana Chief Secretary in Chandigarh

Chandigarh, April 17 – The 27 delegates from 13 countries, who are attending the 36th International Training Programme in Legislative Drafting, called on Haryana Chief Secretary Sh. Anurag Rastogi here today. The participants, representing Côte d'Ivoire, Ecuador, Honduras, Guatemala, Sri Lanka, Mongolia, Myanmar, Niger, Nigeria, Maldives, Tanzania, Zambia, and Zimbabwe, are taking part in a five-day programme organized in collaboration with the Parliamentary Research and Training Institute for Democracies (PRIDE) of the Lok Sabha.

In his address, Chief Secretary Sh. Anurag Rastogi emphasized the importance of inclusive law-making processes. “The contours of any law can only be crafted effectively by listening to the voices of all stakeholders,” he stated. He underscored that legislation must reflect the aspirations, emotions, and needs of society to ensure its relevance and efficacy. Sh. Rastogi highlighted the Indian Constitution as a meticulously drafted document, noting that it provides a comprehensive framework and clear procedures for the formulation of laws. “The Indian Constitution serves as a guiding light, with well-laid-out processes that ensure laws are both robust and adaptable,” he added. He also spoke about Haryana’s unique position in India, describing it as a small yet progressive state with one of the highest per capita income and tax collection in the country.

The Chief Secretary also personally handed over a copy of the Srimad Bhagavad Gita to all the foreign delegates on the occasion. He said the Mahabharata is a story beyond one’s imagination in which the great principle of Karma is laid down. There are situations in life when an individual needs consolation and support. The Srimad Bhagavad Gita acts as a pillar of strength for us in such times, he added.

The training programme, running from April 16 to April 21, aims to foster knowledge-sharing and enhance legislative drafting skills among participants. It includes sessions on advanced drafting techniques, comparative legislative frameworks, and the integration of technology in legislative processes. “When you return to your countries, may you take with you not only professional insights but also the warmth of our traditions and the spirit of collaboration,” he said.

Mr. Alejandro Nicolas Weisson Nemalceff, Director, Financial Policy and Regulation Body, Ecuador, thanked the Chief Secretary for hosting all the delegates, adding that the training imparted by officials here has not just made them more efficient professionals but also better human beings. He said the core strength of India lies in its people. The people of India are extremely loving and warm and it has been a great experience to visit India.

Dr. KN Chaturvedi, Former Secretary of Legislative Department in the Ministry of Law and Justice, Government of India and Course Director, gave the overview of the month-long course for the foreign delegates on the occasion.

Principal Secretary, Industries & Commerce, Sh. D. Suresh, Special Secretary, Personnel, Training and Parliamentary Affairs Department, Sh. Aditya Dahiya, and senior officers of various departments were present on the occasion.

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Haryana concludes statewide drive to register unorganised and gig workers on e-Shram portal

Chandigarh, April 17- The Labour Department, Government of Haryana, has successfully concluded a Statewide Special Registration Drive from April 7 to April 17, 2025, aimed at bringing gig workers, platform-based workers, and other unorganised sector employees under the ambit of the e-Shram portal. Developed by the Ministry of Labour and Employment, Government of India, the e-Shram portal is a national database for unorganised workers, which provides formal identity and access to social security schemes. Haryana has merged as a frontrunner in its implementation, with over 54 lakh workers registered on the portal to date.

The Haryana Labour Department undertook extensive outreach activities during the 10-day campaign. Camps were organised across all districts with on-the-spot Aadhaar authentication and registration assistance. The initiative saw active participation and crowd gatherings at various locations, supported by awareness measures such as Print Media Campaign, pamphlet distribution, public announcements, door-to-door mobilisation, social Media Campaign and coordination with local bodies and labour welfare officers. Platform-based organisations including Blinkit, Swiggy, Zomato, Flipkart, Amazon, and Urban Company, were approached and sensitised to ensure their gig workforce was informed and included in the drive.

Once Registered, workers become eligible for a wide range of benefits including Rs,2 lakh accidental insurance under Pradhan Mantri Suraksha Bima Yojana, Rs.2 lakh life insurance under Pradhan Mantri Jeevan Jyoti Bima Yojana, and up to Rs.5 lakh family health cover under Ayushman Bharat, depending on eligibility. In addition, they can access pension benefits of Rs. 3,000 per month under Pradhan Mantri Shram Yogi Maan-dhan Yojana on reaching the age of 60.

The Principal Secretary, Labour Department, Haryana, has urged all eligible gig and platform workers to take full advantage of this opportunity by visiting their nearest district registration camp before April 17. He emphasised that the gig workforce plays a crucial role in the state’s economy and must be given equal access to welfare and protection.

For more information, workers can visit the official website www.eshram.gov.in, contact their nearest Labour Department office, or call the toll-free Shramik Sahayata Sewa 1800-180-2129.

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31.52 lakh MT wheat, 4.93 lakh MT mustard procured in Haryana

Procurement of crops progressing rapidly during Rabi marketing season in state

Chandigarh, April 17 - The procurement of crops is progressing rapidly during the Rabi marketing season in Haryana. A total of 31.52 lakh metric tonnes (MT) of wheat has been procured across the state since April 1. Out of this, 8.59 lakh metric tonnes of wheat has been lifted.

A government spokesperson said till now, wheat has been procured from more than 2 lakh farmers and an amount of Rs 1400 crore has been transferred directly to the farmers' bank accounts. Last year, 18.24 lakh metric tonnes of wheat was procured till April 16.

The purchase of mustard has been started in the state from March 15 during the Rabi marketing season 2025-26. The work of purchasing mustard is being done by two procurement agencies in the state - HAFED and Haryana Warehousing Corporation. The spokesperson said till April 16 this year, 4.93 lakh metric tonnes of mustard has been procured by the procurement agencies in the state. In this, 3.40 lakh metric tonnes of mustard has been lifted. So far, the state government has procured mustard from 1,71,000 farmers and an amount of Rs 1843 crore has been transferred directly to their bank accounts. He said the government is committed to buying every grain of the farmers' crop

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Haryana Right to Service Commission orders to give Rs. 5000 compensation to consumer for DHBVN’s negligence

Chandigarh, April 17- The Haryana Right to Service Commission has ordered the electricity department to pay Rs.5,000 as compensation to a consumer due to its negligence. In a complaint given to the Commission, Sh. Raghbir Singh, a resident of Sirsa, who said that after taking an industrial electricity connection, he had applied for the prescribed subsidy, but the Nigam did not provide him the benefit, even though he met all the eligibility criteria.

Sharing information in this regard a spokesperson of the department said that investigation clearly showed that Sh. Raghbir Singh, industrial unit operator, was eligible for the electricity subsidy. His unit is in the ‘C’ category and the connection load is less than 20 kilowatts, which falls within the prescribed limit for the subsidy.

The spokesperson said that Dakshin Haryana Bijli Vitran Nigam(DHBVN), denied his eligibility based on a letter issued on July 29, 2024, and applied new conditions with retrospective effect. The Commission found this not only administratively wrong but also legally invalid. The consumer had to visit the SDO office several times, causing him a lot of mental stress.

The Commission has directed DHBVN to cancel the chargeback applied on the consumer and release the pending subsidy at the rate of Rs. 2 per unit from December 21, 2018, or the date of connection (whichever is later). All these proceedings should be completed by 28th April 2025.

In addition, under Section 17(1)(h) of the Haryana Right to Service Act, 2014, the Commission has ordered Rs. 5,000 compensation to be paid to Sh. Raghbir Singh. This amount will be paid from Nigam’s own funds, and the company is free to recover it from the guilty officers concerned later.

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All genuine demands of Haryana Scheduled Caste Government Teachers’ Association will be considered

Chandigarh, April 17 – Haryana Minister for Social Justice, Empowerment, Welfare of Scheduled Castes and Backward Classes, and Antyodaya (SEWA), Sh. Krishan Kumar Bedi, has assured that all genuine demands put forth by the Haryana Scheduled Caste Government Teachers’ Association will be considered sympathetically.

The Minister said this while interacting with a delegation of the Association, which submitted a memorandum requesting reservation in promotions to Class I and II posts in the state.

Sh. Bedi assured the delegation that suitable action would be taken in this regard. He said that the Haryana Government, under the leadership of Chief Minister Sh. Nayab Singh Saini, is committed to the welfare of its employees and will take appropriate steps in accordance with existing rules and regulations.

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Women and Child Development Department is organizing Poshan Pakhwada till April 22

Poshan Pakhwada aims to promote healthy and nutritious diets among women and children – Shruti Chaudhary

Chandigarh, April 17 – Haryana Women and Child Development Department is organizing the 7th edition of Poshan Pakhwada, which will continue until April 22. The initiative, under Poshan Abhiyaan, aims to promote healthy and nutritious diets among women and children by integrating modern technology with traditional practices.

Women and Child Development Minister, Mrs. Shruti Chaudhary, said that this year's Poshan Pakhwada is centered around the first 1,000 days of a child’s life, a critical period for growth and development. As part of the campaign, ‘Weighing Day’ activities are being conducted across all Anganwadi centers in the state for children up to six years of age. She has directed department officials to raise awareness about balanced diets and anemia in every village. She also emphasized the importance of encouraging healthy lifestyle habits to help combat childhood obesity.

A detailed calendar has been prepared by the Women and Child Development Department, guiding supervisors to carry out various activities within their respective circles. As part of the Poshan Abhiyaan, awareness campaigns are being conducted on maternal nutrition and the importance of breastfeeding. Door-to-door vaccination drives are being carried out for children up to two years of age, while public awareness is also being raised about the use of the Nutrition Tracker.

Nutritious Thali competitions are being held at Anganwadi centers for both children and mothers to promote healthy eating habits. Pregnant and lactating women are being educated about the importance of essential nutrients. Gram Sabhas are also being organized under Poshan Pakhwada, where maternal and child nutrition beneficiaries are being encouraged to complete their digital registration independently.

Special “Mother Meetings” are being held for the caregivers of severely malnourished children, providing guidance on appropriate dietary practices. Since the launch of Poshan Pakhwada on April 8, a wide range of activities have been conducted in collaboration with various departments. These include health check-up camps, tree plantation drives, nutrition walks, cycle rallies, yoga sessions, Gram Sabha meetings, nutrition-focused events, workshops, webinars, and competitions. Last year, during the fortnight-long campaign, 3,63,480 activities were carried out, with participation from over 5.17 lakh individuals.

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Haryana to celebrate International Day for Monuments and Sites

Chandigarh, April 17 - On the occasion of the International Day for Monuments and Sites, the Haryana Tourism Corporation is set to celebrate the day in a grand manner, emphasizing its continuous dedication to preserving and promoting the state’s rich cultural heritage. It highlights its ongoing efforts to preserve and promote the state's rich cultural heritage. This year's theme reminds everyone about the importance of protecting monuments for future generations — a commitment that Haryana Tourism has been working on actively across the state.

Pinjore Gardens (Yadavindra Gardens), located just 22 kilometers from Chandigarh, is one of the finest examples of Mughal garden architecture in India. Built in the 17th century by Nawab Fidai Khan, the garden features beautiful terraced levels, fountains, and historic pavilions. Adjacent to the gardens is the Bhima Devi Museum, which blends archaeology with the natural beauty of the gardens. Haryana Tourism has now started promoting Pinjore Gardens as a heritage wedding destination, allowing people to experience royal celebrations in a historic setting. Under the Swadesh Darshan Scheme, major development works are being taken up at Pinjore Gardens, including better parking, upgraded public amenities, and overall rejuvenation of the garden. Plans are also being made to organize music festivals, along with the popular Mango Mela and Baisakhi celebrations at the site. Organizing such events not only creates awareness among the public but also helps in conserving and maintaining the heritage site.

Another important heritage property being promoted is the Raja Nahar Singh Palace at Ballabgarh. This historic palace tells the story of Raja Nahar Singh, a brave warrior from the 1857 First War of Independence. Today, it functions as a heritage hotel and cultural venue managed by Haryana Tourism. The department is planning to develop it further as a popular wedding and cultural event destination, with support from various stakeholder agencies. Public suggestions will also be invited for better management and conservation of the site. Similarly, Haryana Tourism is working to promote Madhogarh Fort as a major tourist attraction. The fort, located in Mahendragarh district, showcases Rajput and Maratha architectural styles and offers visitors a chance to experience the rich history of the region.

Apart from heritage sites, Haryana is also developing adventure tourism locations like Hathnikund and Tikkar Tal to attract more tourists and create a variety of experiences for visitors.

Studies and global research show that heritage conservation not only preserves history but also boosts local economies, creates jobs, strengthens community pride, and promotes sustainable tourism. Organizing cultural events and responsible tourism activities helps protect these sites and pass on their stories to future generations.

On this International Day for Monuments and Sites, Haryana Tourism Corporation reaffirms its commitment to protect, promote, and celebrate the state's priceless heritage, aligning its efforts with global conservation goals set by UNESCO.

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All must work together to eradicate drugs completely – Education Minister Mahipal Dhanda

Cyclothon Yatra playing a key role in making Haryana drug-free

Minister honours panchayat representatives from 84 villages with appreciation letters and trophies

Chandigarh, April 17– Under the guidance of Haryana Chief Minister, Sh. Nayab Singh, the Cyclothon 2.0 Yatra for a Drug-Free Haryana received a warm welcome at the Panipat District. Education Minister, Sh. Mahipal Dhanda flagged off the Cyclothon Yatra for its further journey. He also honoured representatives from the panchayats of 84 villages with appreciation letters and trophies for their active role in fighting against drugs.

On this occasion, the Minister also felicitated Olympic wrestler Seema Bisla and Commonwealth Games bronze medalist Pooja Gehlawat with trophies. He also administered a pledge to all organisers, sportspersons, and college students to stay away from drugs.

Addressing the gathering, Education Minister, Sh. Mahipal Dhanda said that the state government is running a large-scale campaign to eliminate drugs from the root. The Cyclothon Yatra is spreading the message of a drug-free society in every place it passes through.He appealed to the youth to come forward and become part of this movement.

He further said that special training camps are being organised as part of this campaign.The Cyclothon yatra is especially important in bringing a positive change in the lives of young people.

On this occasion, Deputy Commissioner Dr. Virender Kumar Dahiya, Superintendent of Police, Sh. Lokender Singh and Panipat SDM, Sh. Braham Parkash also remained present.

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All genuine demands of Haryana Scheduled Caste Government Teachers’ Association will be considered

Chandigarh, April 17 – Haryana Minister for Social Justice, Empowerment, Welfare of Scheduled Castes and Backward Classes, and Antyodaya (SEWA), Sh. Krishan Kumar Bedi, has assured that all genuine demands put forth by the Haryana Scheduled Caste Government Teachers’ Association will be considered sympathetically.

The Minister said this while interacting with a delegation of the Association, which submitted a memorandum requesting reservation in promotions to Class I and II posts in the state.

Sh. Bedi assured the delegation that suitable action would be taken in this regard. He said that the Haryana Government, under the leadership of Chief Minister Sh. Nayab Singh Saini, is committed to the welfare of its employees and will take appropriate steps in accordance with existing rules and regulations.