PunjabENews

Category: Punjab

  • Punjab Registers 12.52% Surge in Net GST Collection in FY 2025-26: Harpal Singh Cheema

    Punjab Registers 12.52% Surge in Net GST Collection in FY 2025-26: Harpal Singh Cheema

    Net GST Collection Rises to Rs 26,601 Crore, Punjab Outperforms National Average: Harpal Singh Cheema

    Chandigarh (2nd April): Showcasing robust financial management and sustained economic recovery, Punjab Finance, Excise and Taxation Minister Advocate Harpal Singh Cheema on Thursday announced a significant 12.52% increase in the net Goods and Services Tax (GST) collection up to the month of March for the financial year 2025-26. He said the state also recorded a substantial year-on-year increase in March 2026, with Net GST Collection rising from Rs.1,913.82 crore in March 2025 to Rs.2,231.93 crore, registering an absolute gain of Rs. 318.11 crore and a growth of 16.6% and SGST cash collections in March registered a robust growth of 18%, placing Punjab among the top-performing large states in the country, as against the national growth rate of approximately 7%.

    Disclosing these figures in a press communiqué issued here, Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema said that Punjab has registered consistent and broad-based revenue augmentation for the full financial year 2025–26 as the net GST collection up to the month of March reached Rs. 26601.12 crore in 2025-26, compared to Rs. 23642.08 crore in 2024-25, registering a solid increase of Rs. 2959.04 crore. “This sustained fiscal expansion positions Punjab ahead of the national average, where net GST revenue grew by approximately 6 % , thereby establishing the State as a strong performer in GST mobilization”, he added.

    The Finance Minister Cheema said that the fiscal year 2025-26 reflects a clear three-phase revenue trajectory marked by strong initial gains, a policy-induced dip, and a decisive recovery. Cheema said, “In the first six months (April to September 2025), Punjab recorded a substantial increase in Net GST Collection of Rs. 2,478.19 crore, reflecting a growth of 23%, demonstrating strong revenue mobilisation driven by effective state-level enforcement and compliance measures”.

    Highlighting the Challenges faced due to the GST 2.0 policy, the Finance Minister said that substantial increase during the first half of the year was followed by a dip in the October to December quarter, where Net Collection by Rs. 193.04 crore (-3%), largely due to disruptions arising from centrally driven GST 2.0 policy changes; cumulatively, this phase resulted in an estimated revenue impact of around Rs. 400 crore. “Importantly, the Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann led State Government’s proactive interventions led to a sharp recovery in the January to March 2026 quarter, with Gross Collection increasing by Rs. 564.97 crore (9%) and Net Collection by Rs. 669.09 crore (11%), more than offsetting the earlier decline and restoring the growth trajectory”, Cheema added.

    Finance Minister Cheema further stated,“the consistent growth in GST collections, particularly the strong recovery in the last quarter, reflects the State Government’s unwavering commitment to robust financial management and effective tax administration. Despite transitional challenges at the national level, Punjab has demonstrated resilience and agility. The Government will continue to strengthen compliance frameworks, leverage technology, and support honest taxpayers to further augment revenue mobilisation.”

    “In contrast, several large states such as Jharkhand, Chhattisgarh, Odisha, and Madhya Pradesh recorded negative growth in both March 2026 and annual figures, indicating broader stress in GST collections”, said Cheema.

    Expressing confidence that the state’s GST collections will get a further boost in financial year 2026-27, Punjab Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema attributed this optimism to the state government’s relentless enforcement efforts, improved compliance, and a thriving economy, which are expected to propel revenue growth to new heights.

  • Bihar-Based Weapon Supplier Among Four Arrested in Arms Smuggling Module; 10 Self-Loading Firearms Recovered

    Bihar-Based Weapon Supplier Among Four Arrested in Arms Smuggling Module; 10 Self-Loading Firearms Recovered

    Patiala News (April 2): In a major breakthrough amidst the ongoing drive to make Punjab a safe and secure state as per directions of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, Patiala Police has busted an inter-state illegal arms supply module with the arrest of four accused persons and recovered 10 sophisticated self-loading firearms from their possession, said Director General of Police (DGP) Punjab Gaurav Yadav here on Thursday.

    Those arrested have been identified as Saurabh Kumar, a resident of village Jarang Deeh in Muzaffarpur, Bihar; ⁠Sajan, a resident of Sohana in SAS Nagar; Abhishek alias Kaka, a resident of Gurdeep Colony Ablowal in Patiala; and ⁠Inderjit Singh alias Rohit, a resident of Old Bishan Nagar in Patiala.

    DGP Gaurav Yadav said that preliminary investigation has revealed that the arrested accused were sourcing country-made weapons from Bihar, and supplying them in the state for criminal activities. Further probe has also indicated gang rivalry, with plans to target a rival criminal linked to the Goldy Dhillon network to establish dominance in the area, he said.

    The DGP said that further investigation is underway to establish backward and forward linkages in this case to dismantle the entire network.

    Sharing operational details, Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Patiala Varun Sharma said that Police teams had received human input that Bihar-resident Saurabh Kumar is supplying country made self-loading pistols to notorious criminals on the directions of their Foreign-based handlers in order to commit target killings and other heinous crimes in the state. Under the supervision of SP Investigation Patiala Gurbans Singh Bains and DSP Harman Cheema, the CIA Patiala Unit and SHO Shambu laid the trap and arrested four accused persons involved in the smuggling of firearm weapons, he said.

    The SSP further said that the arrested accused Saurabh Kumar was arranging weapons from illegally set up arms manufacturing units situated at Muzaffarpur in Bihar to supply them in Punjab using various modes of transportation. During initial interrogation, it was also found that the arrested accused Abhishek was in contact with notorious Gangster Goldy Dhillon via social media platforms and was actively involved in the gangwar, he said.

    In this regard, a case FIR no 50 dated 1-4-2026 has been registered under section 111 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) and section 25 of the Arms Act at Police Station Shambu in Patiala.

  • Chandigarh blast probe deepens: grenade use suspected; Punjab and Haryana High Court gets fresh bomb threat

    Chandigarh blast probe deepens: grenade use suspected; Punjab and Haryana High Court gets fresh bomb threat

    Chandigarh: Fresh revelations have emerged in the blast outside the Punjab BJP headquarters in Sector 37, Chandigarh, with sources indicating that a GHD2P hand grenade may have been used in the attack.

    The grenade, believed to be of Pakistani origin, is considered highly lethal within a radius of 5 to 10 metres, while its fragments can spread up to 20–25 metres, posing a serious threat to people nearby.

    Two new CCTV videos have also surfaced. In one, two suspects are seen standing outside a nearby office minutes before the blast. In another, they are seen fleeing across the road immediately after the explosion.

    Meanwhile, security concerns have intensified as the Punjab and Haryana High Court has received a bomb threat for the fourth time via email.

    Officials said that while earlier threat emails were sent to the High Court registrar’s official email, the latest message was received at the police headquarters.

    Security agencies have launched a thorough investigation of the High Court premises and are working to trace the origin of the threatening emails.

    Authorities said both the blast case and the threat emails are being treated with high priority, and efforts are underway to identify those responsible.

  • ₹4 lakh life-saving surgery delivered cashless under Mukh Mantri Sehat Yojna, one of highest claims under Bhagwant Mann Govt’s healthcare push

    ₹4 lakh life-saving surgery delivered cashless under Mukh Mantri Sehat Yojna, one of highest claims under Bhagwant Mann Govt’s healthcare push

    Every life matters & ensuring free, life-saving treatment through Sehat Card reflects our commitment to protecting every citizen: Health Minister Dr. Balbir Singh

    Chandigarh News (2 April, 2026): Marking one of the highest claims facilitated under the Mukh Mantri Sehat Yojna to date, a ₹4 lakh life-saving surgery was delivered cashless, reflecting the scale and on-ground effectiveness of the Bhagwant Mann Government’s healthcare system.

    The beneficiary, Sukhpal Kaur, a 37 year old resident of Chandigarh, was admitted to PGIMER Chandigarh after being diagnosed with a critical aortic dissection, a serious cardio-thoracic and vascular condition requiring immediate surgical intervention. The procedure, along with hospitalisation and specialised care, was estimated to cost nearly ₹4 lakh, an amount that would have been extremely difficult for the family to arrange at short notice.

    With the Sehat Card verified at the hospital, the treatment began without delay. The entire procedure was carried out cashless under the scheme’s coverage of up to ₹10 lakh per family.

    A family member said, “Everything happened very quickly. We were told the condition was serious and required immediate surgery. Arranging such a large amount instantly would not have been possible. The Sehat Card ensured treatment started without delay.”

    Highlighting the clinical aspect of the case, Dr. Sachin Mahajan, PGIMER Chandigarh, said, “Aortic dissection is a critical condition that requires immediate surgical intervention. In such cases, even a short delay can significantly increase risk. Under the Mukh Mantri Sehat Yojna, once the Sehat Card was verified, we are able to proceed without waiting for financial clearances. This ensures timely and uninterrupted treatment in high-risk cardiac cases.”

    Reinforcing the government’s approach, Minister of Health and Family Welfare of Punjab, Dr. Balbir Singh said, “Being able to save a precious life in a critical moment like that of Sukhpal Kaur brings immense satisfaction. Under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, the Mukh Mantri Sehat Yojna is making a real ground impact where families are able to access immediate treatment without the stress of arranging funds.”

    With lakhs of families already covered and high-value treatments being delivered across the state, the scheme continues to strengthen healthcare access across Punjab.

    The Punjab Government continues to encourage residents to enrol for the Sehat Card at designated centres to avail cashless treatment benefits under the Mukh Mantri Sehat Yojna.

  • Jalandhar’s PCS Officer Aaditya Gupta shines at the Jurists and Civil Services Golf Tournament

    Jalandhar’s PCS Officer Aaditya Gupta shines at the Jurists and Civil Services Golf Tournament

    SDM Shahkot clinches overall title with the best gross score in the prestigious North India level Competition conducted by CGA

    Jalandhar News (April 2): Bringing laurels to Jalandhar, PCS Officer Aaditya Gupta, who is currently posted as Sub Divisional Magistrate Shahkot and Staff Officer to Commissioner Jalandhar Division, clinched the overall trophy in the Jurists and Civil Services Golf Tournament held at Chandigarh Golf Club.

    The tournament witnessed participation of more than 90 civil servants and judicial officials from North Indian states, including Punjab, Haryana, Himachal Pradesh and Chandigarh. Mr. Gupta emerged victorious with his outstanding performance and added another feather to his cap.

    He received the winning trophy from the Honourable Governor of Haryana Sh.Ashim Kumar Ghosh who presided over the presentation.

    Following his achievement, SDM Aaditya Gupta today met Divisional Commissioner Jalandhar Mr. Ramvir, IAS and Deputy Commissioner Jalandhar Dr.Himanshu Aggarwal, IAS who congratulated him on this rare feat.

    Appreciating his success, they highlighted the importance of sports in daily life and said that everyone should adopt some form of physical activity to remain physically and mentally fit.

    Mr. Gupta has been playing on the Indian National Golf Tour for the past 15 years. He is currently featured in the Merit list of National Amateur players issued by Indian Golf Union.

  • Zero Tolerance for Misbehavior with Patients in Government Hospitals: Health Minister Dr. Balbir Singh

    Zero Tolerance for Misbehavior with Patients in Government Hospitals: Health Minister Dr. Balbir Singh

    Contractual employee suspended for misconduct at Mata Kaushalya Hospital; to be relieved from service after one-month notice

    Patiala News (April 2): Punjab Health and Family Welfare Minister Dr. Balbir Singh has asserted in strong terms that any form of misbehavior with patients in government hospitals will not be tolerated. During a surprise visit to Government Mata Kaushalya Hospital here today, the Health Minister ordered the immediate suspension of a contractual employee who had misbehaved with a patient at the OPD registration counter yesterday.

    Expressing deep concern over the incident, Dr. Balbir Singh said he was distressed after watching the viral video in which the employee punched and broke a glass panel, resulting in injuries to a female patient. He noted that such reckless behavior could have caused serious harm to other patients as well, and therefore cannot be condoned under any circumstances. He informed that a departmental inquiry has been ordered and the concerned employee, Gurpreet Singh, will be served a one-month notice and subsequently relieved from service.

    Reviewing the OPD registration arrangements, the Health Minister directed SMO Dr. Vikas Goyal and Dr. Jaideep Bhatia to deploy additional staff at the registration counter to minimize waiting time for patients. He emphasized that under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, the Punjab Government is committed to ensuring improved healthcare services, as the Aam Aadmi Party government aims to provide quality healthcare and better education to the people.

    Dr. Balbir Singh further stated that clear instructions have been issued to doctors and support staff across government hospitals to maintain a “soft heart and a cool head,” meaning they must adopt a compassionate and patient-friendly approach. He added that patients often visit hospitals in distress or pain, and even if some behave irrationally due to their condition, the staff must handle such situations with patience and empathy.

    Appreciating the efforts of doctors and staff nurses at Mata Kaushalya Hospital, the Minister said that 99.9 percent of the staff serve patients with dedication, honesty, and commitment, while strict action will be taken against the remaining few who fail to uphold standards of conduct.

    He also made it clear that any unruly behavior or violence by patients or their attendants will invite strict action, and police cases have been registered in several such instances. He assured that staff members displaying exemplary compassion will be encouraged, while those found guilty of misconduct will face consequences.

    Highlighting the facilities at Mata Kaushalya Hospital, Dr. Balbir Singh said it is one of Punjab’s key district-level civil hospitals, equipped with ICU, Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU), Pediatric ICU, and various specialty services. DNB courses are also being conducted at the hospital, which caters to approximately 1,500 to 1,700 patients. He reiterated that further improving services at the hospital remains a key priority.

  • 0 lakh free treatment for every family, Opposition spreading confusion to derail Mukh Mantri Sehat Yojna: Baltej Pannu

    0 lakh free treatment for every family, Opposition spreading confusion to derail Mukh Mantri Sehat Yojna: Baltej Pannu

    Mukh Mantri Sehat Yojna reaches 30 lakh families, misinformation campaign cannot stop Punjab’s ‘Sehat Di Kranti’: Baltej Pannu*

    Punjab E News (1 April 2026):  Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) Punjab Media Incharge Baltej Pannu today addressed the media and shared a detailed update on the Mukh Mantri Sehat Yojna (MMSY), while also clarifying misinformation being spread regarding its implementation. He also spoke about a special registration drive for current and retired PRTC employees to ensure wider and faster coverage.

    AAP Punjab State Media In-charge Baltej Pannu stated, “Under the Mukh Mantri Sehat Yojna, beneficiaries are entitled to cashless medical treatment up to ₹10 lakh per family. The scheme covers treatment for a wide range of diseases, with diagnostic tests also included free of cost. Around 900 private hospitals have already been empanelled under the scheme, in addition to all government hospitals.”

    The AAP Punjab inchegri informed that nearly 30 lakh families in Punjab have already been enrolled under the scheme, out of an estimated 65 lakh families in the state. “We are close to covering half the population and will soon extend the benefits to all families,” he added.

    Addressing concerns about delays, Baltej Pannu stated, “Minor slowdowns may occur due to network or technical issues, but dedicated teams are working with patience to ensure a smooth process. Registration camps are being organized across locations so that people can enroll near their homes without facing long queues.”

    Highlighting inclusivity, Baltej Pannu said, “The scheme applies uniformly to all families in Punjab without any discrimination based on income, caste, religion, or occupation. The only requirement is possession of a Punjab Aadhaar card and voter ID. Entire families are covered under a single card.”

    He clarified that beneficiaries do not need to wait for the physical card after enrollment. “In case of medical need, people can visit any empanelled hospital and avail treatment by presenting their Aadhaar card,” he said.

    He emphasized, “The scheme provides access to treatment across all levels of healthcare, from Mohalla Clinics for primary care to government and empanelled private hospitals for advanced treatment. Patients ranging from one year old to 98 years old have already benefited from the scheme.”

    Referring to public perception, he noted, “While many people prefer private hospitals, government hospitals have also been significantly upgraded and are delivering quality care. At the same time, the empanelment of around 900 private hospitals ensures adequate options for beneficiaries.”

    On misuse and misinformation, Baltej Pannu cautioned, “Some individuals are misleading patients by taking them to non-empanelled hospitals and later claiming denial of treatment. Only empanelled hospitals are authorized under the scheme. The government will soon install clear signage outside all empanelled hospitals indicating acceptance of the Mukh Mantri Sehat Yojna.”

    He also pointed out that more hospitals are now approaching the government to be included in the empanelled list. “The number of empanelled hospitals is expected to increase further in the coming days,” he added.

    Speaking on PRTC employees, Baltej Pannu said, “A special registration camp has been organized at the main PRTC station with the support of Chairman Harpal Juneja and other officials. The initiative aims to facilitate easy enrollment for both serving and retired employees and their families. Every eligible PRTC employee will be covered under the scheme.”

    Baltej Pannu concluded by reiterating the Punjab Government’s commitment to strengthening healthcare and education. “Significant budget allocations have been made in both sectors. The Mukh Mantri Sehat Yojna is a major step toward ensuring accessible and affordable healthcare for every family in Punjab,” he stated.

  • Chandigarh Blast Condemnable; BJP’s Blame Game Equally Unfortunate: Baltej Pannu

    Chandigarh Blast Condemnable; BJP’s Blame Game Equally Unfortunate: Baltej Pannu

    Chandigarh News (April 1): Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) Punjab Media In-charge Baltej Pannu strongly condemned the recent blast in Chandigarh, calling it a deeply unfortunate and condemnable incident. Expressing relief, Pannu noted that there was no loss of life or property in the explosion.

    However, Pannu also criticized the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) for indulging in immediate blame politics over the incident. He said that such reactions are equally condemnable and irresponsible, especially at a time when facts are yet to be fully established. “The BJP, which has complete administrative control over Chandigarh, must take responsibility instead of shifting blame,” he asserted.

    Pannu reiterated AAP’s long-standing demand that Chandigarh be handed over to Punjab, emphasizing that the city rightfully belongs to the state. He expressed confidence that the Punjab government would manage and administer Chandigarh in a far more efficient and people-centric manner.

    Referring to Chandigarh’s identity as the ‘City Beautiful,’ Pannu said that the current administrative condition of the city under BJP’s control is visible to all. He stressed that while AAP does not wish to politicize the blast, it is important to highlight governance issues that have affected the city over time.

    Drawing a parallel with Punjab’s recent progress, Pannu stated that despite various challenges and restrictions, the state has moved steadily on the path of development over the past four years. He concluded by condemning both the incident and the premature politicization surrounding it.

  • Flights from Ludhiana’s Halwara airport to begin from May 15; bookings open

    Flights from Ludhiana’s Halwara airport to begin from May 15; bookings open

    Chandigarh: Flight operations from Ludhiana’s Halwara airport are set to begin soon, with Air India opening bookings from April 1.

    The first flight will land at Halwara airport from Delhi on May 15, marking the start of commercial operations. The inaugural departure from Ludhiana will also be to Delhi.

    With bookings now live, it has been confirmed that the Ludhiana-Delhi journey will take approximately 1 hour and 10 minutes. The schedule includes two arrivals and two departures daily from the airport.

    Union Minister of State Ravneet Bittu shared the update on social media, confirming the launch timeline.

    According to the airline’s website, the starting fare for the route is ₹3,512, though prices may vary depending on demand and timing.

  • Jogindra Group’s ₹1,100 crore investment to accelerate Punjab’s industrial growth & green energy push: Sanjeev Arora

    Jogindra Group’s ₹1,100 crore investment to accelerate Punjab’s industrial growth & green energy push: Sanjeev Arora

    ₹700 crore in steel, ₹400 crore in renewable energy, Jogindra Group expansion reflects rising investor confidence in Punjab: Sanjeev Arora

    Punjab E News (1 April 2026): Punjab Cabinet Minister for Industries & Commerce, Investment Promotion, Power & Local Government Sanjeev Arora shared that Jogindra Group has announced a strategic expansion plan worth ₹1,100 crore, giving a major boost to Punjab’s industrial growth and green energy transition. He stated that this investment reflects the growing confidence of industry in Punjab’s progressive policies and business-friendly environment.

    Minister Sanjeev Arora Ludhiana
    Sanjeev Arora said that this investment reflects the growing confidence of industry in Punjab’s progressive policies and business-friendly environment. He detailed that the expansion includes ₹700 crore investment in the steel sector, primarily through Jogindra Castings and Vardhman Adarsh, along with ₹400 crore investment in renewable energy through Jogindra Green India.

    Highlighting the scale of impact, Sanjeev Arora noted, “The Jogindra Group’s turnover is projected to increase from ₹3,000 crore to ₹5,000 crore, while employee strength will rise from 1,800 to 3,000, creating significant employment opportunities. He added that renewable energy capacity will expand from 37 MW to 120 MW.”

    Providing background, he stated that established in 1992, Jogindra Group is a leading industrial conglomerate in North India with a strong presence in steel manufacturing and a growing footprint in renewable energy. “The Group is promoted by CMD Adarsh Garg along with Directors Sanjay Gupta and Nimit Gupta,” he added.

    Emphasising the regional impact, Sanjeev Arora said that Mandi Gobindgarh has always been the backbone of Punjab’s steel industry. “Today, under Bhagwant Mann Government, it is regaining its strength with new investments, modernization, and a strong push towards cleaner and more efficient production. The expansion by Jogindra Group is a clear sign that Gobindgarh is once again becoming a growth engine for Punjab’s industrial economy.”

    He further stated that Punjab continues to emerge as a preferred destination for both manufacturing and green energy investments, and that this ₹1,100 crore investment will strengthen the industrial base, create substantial employment opportunities and promote sustainable growth.

    Reiterating the Bhagwant Mann Government’s commitment, the Minister said, “The AAP Government remains focused on providing a conducive ecosystem for industry, ensuring ease of doing business and encouraging environmentally responsible investments across Punjab.”