Category: Punjab

Bhagwant Singh Mann Government emphasizes promotion of the food processing sector in the new industrial policy — Sanjeev Arora

Industry Minister Arora visits Bector’s food processing plant near Ghanaur

Ghanaur News (March 28): Punjab’s Minister for Industries & Commerce, Investment Promotion, Power and Local Government, Sanjeev Arora, today visited the Bector’s Food Specialities Limited (Cremica Food Processing) plant at village Gobindgarh, Kami Kalan, near Ghanaur.

The Industry Minister reviewed the maintenance, cleanliness, and food processing operations at the plant and highly appreciated its standards. He said that having a state-of-the-art food processing plant in Punjab is a matter of pride.

Sanjeev Arora stated that Punjab offers a very conducive environment and immense potential for the food processing industry. He emphasized that the food processing sector is a key thrust sector in Punjab’s new industrial policy. Keeping this in view, the Punjab Government led by Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann has laid special emphasis on promoting this sector. He added that over the past four years, pro-industry policies of the state government have made Punjab an attractive destination for investors.

On this occasion, Managing Director of Bector’s Food Specialities Limited, Anoop Bector, briefed the Cabinet Minister about the plant. He informed that the industrial policy introduced by the Punjab Government under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann is further encouraging industrial growth in the state.

He also shared that during a recent investors’ summit organized by the Punjab Government, a commitment of additional investment worth ₹350 crore has been made. Appreciating this, Cabinet Minister Sanjeev Arora lauded Anoop Bector, stating that as a successful entrepreneur, he is further investing in Punjab and contributing significantly towards generating employment opportunities for the youth in the state.

On the occasion, PRTC Vice Chairman Balwinder Singh Jhandwa was also present.

March 28, 2026
Kapurthala Police Arrests 3 Gang Members of Organized Crime Syndicate Involved in giving Ransom call of Rs 50 lakhs with Weapons

Kapurthala News: Senior Superintendent of Police, Kapurthala, Shri Gaurav Toora (IPS), while addressing the media, stated that Kapurthala Police has been actively running a special अभियान against organized crime. Under this campaign, the police has achieved a major success by busting a gang involved in issuing threats, demanding ransom, and attempting firing incidents.

He informed that on 21.03.2026, at Village Ahli Kalan, under Police Station Kabirpur, District Kapurthala, an organized criminal using a foreign virtual number made a call demanding a ransom of ₹50 lakh. Upon refusal to pay, three unidentified motorcycle-borne persons attempted to carry out a firing incident.

In this regard, FIR No. 10 dated 22.03.2026 under sections 308(4), 125, 3(5) BNS and 25 Arms Act was registered at Police Station Kabirpur.

Acting swiftly, the police tracked the accused over a distance of approximately 100 kilometers and located them in Tarn Taran. With continuous surveillance and coordinated efforts of CIA Kapurthala, Police Station Kabirpur, Technical Cell Kapurthala, and Tarn Taran Police, all three accused were successfully apprehended.

During the operation, one pistol along with a magazine used in the firing was recovered. Additionally, the motorcycle used in the crime (Platina, black colour, registration number PB 46 AJ 7438) was also seized.

After thorough investigation, the arrested accused have been identified as:

1. Amritpreet Singh, son of Manjit Singh, resident of Village Khera, PS Sarhali, District Tarn Taran
2. Nisha Singh alias Nishan, son of Sarbjit Singh, resident of Mohalla Chaudhary Wala, Naushehra Pannuan, PS Sarhali, District Tarn Taran
3. One Juvenile

A special team was constituted under the supervision of senior officers including SP Investigation Kapurthala, DSP NDPS Kapurthala, and other officials to trace and arrest the accused.

During interrogation, it has been revealed that the accused acted on the directions of organized gangs operating from abroad and attempted to carry out firing at the target location. They were also planning to execute more such incidents. One of the accused, Nisha Singh alias Nishan, is already involved in a previous criminal case.

Further investigation is in progress, and more important disclosures are expected.

Recovered Items:
• One Pistol (7.65 mm) with magazine
• One Motorcycle (PB 46 AJ 7438)
• Two Mobile Phones

March 28, 2026
Massive Public Support for Bhagwant Mann Government’s ‘Gangsters te Vaar’: Baltej Pannu

590 Complaints on Anti-Gangster Helpline So Far; 83 Drug Trafficking, 35 Extortion, 43 Gangster-Linked, 86 Illegal Arms; FIRs Filed in 63 Serious Matters: Pannu

Chandigarh News (March 28): Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) Punjab State Media Incharge Baltej Pannu said that the campaign launched by CM Bhagwant Mann-led Punjab Government to eliminate gangsterism, ‘Gangsters te Vaar’, is receiving unprecedented public support. Pannu stated that a large number of people across Punjab have come forward to assist the police through the special helpline number issued against gangsters, which proves that there is no longer any space left for criminals in the state.

Sharing the figures, Baltej Pannu said that around 590 people have registered their complaints on this helpline so far. He clarified that the government’s priority is the safety of the complainant, and therefore the identity of every individual providing information is being kept completely confidential. Among the complaints received, 83 are related to drug trafficking, 35 to extortion (ransom), 43 to gangsters, and 86 to illegal weapons. Based on these complaints, prompt action has been taken, and FIRs have been registered in 63 serious cases so far.

Pannu further said that various gangsters and their associates have been named in these FIRs, which has broken the backbone of their networks. He added that such a large number of people coming forward fearlessly to lodge complaints shows that the people of Punjab have full faith in the Anti-Gangster Task Force (AGTF) and the intentions of the Mann Government. Many other complaints are currently under detailed investigation, and legal action will be taken on them soon.

Baltej Pannu said that it is due to this unwavering trust of the people that the AGTF is achieving such significant success in the fight against gangsterism. He assured the people of Punjab that this campaign to make the state crime-free and safe will continue until gangsterism is completely eradicated from Punjab.

March 28, 2026
Punjab flags urgent fuel demand as 140 LMT wheat harvest approaches, seeks Centre’s immediate action: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann

Ensure uninterrupted fuel supply or risk food security during wheat harvest: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann

Punjab News (28 March 2026): Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann on Saturday called upon the Government of India to urgently ensure enhanced and uninterrupted supply of petrol, diesel and DAP fertiliser as Punjab gears up for a 140 Lakh Metric Ton (LMT) wheat harvest, warning that any disruption in fuel availability could directly impact national food security. While reiterating that there is no shortage and no cause for panic, the Chief Minister underscored that timely action by the Centre is essential to keep harvesting operations and grain movement running smoothly, even as Punjab stands ready with 181 LMT wheat and 139 LMT paddy to support the nation.

Addressing a press conference, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann stated, “During a virtual meeting with the Prime Minister on Friday evening, I apprised that Punjab is likely to produce 140 Lakh Metric Ton (LMT) of wheat this year. To ensure smooth harvesting and ferrying of the crop, regular supply of petrol and diesel is needed. A large number of tractors, trolleys, harvesters and trucks will be used during harvesting, so fuel supply must be enhanced in larger public interest. It is the need of the hour to ensure that the food security of the country is maintained by all means.”

Reassuring the public, the Chief pointed said there was no need for panic. “There is currently a stock of 12-14 days of petrol and diesel and six days of LPG in the state, which is usually the same throughout the year. This stock is intact and supply is going on unabated. The country has import agreements with 41 nations and at the national level 60 days of petrol and diesel stock and 30 days of LPG stock have already been secured. There is no need for hoarding or panic buying as the Chief Secretary is keeping an eagle eye on supplies. Hoarders and black marketers will not be spared at any cost.”

Citing operational data, he added, “Till Thursday, 71,000 requests for LPG refilling were received, out of which 69,000 have already been delivered. There is no possibility of any lockdown in the state and everything is functioning smoothly. A total of 1,497 checks have been conducted, during which 301 LPG cylinders were seized.” He further stated, “The Punjab Government is committed to ensuring that both agriculture and industry do not face any disruption. A helpline number 01723321001 has been launched for LPG, petrol and diesel-related issues.”

Highlighting Punjab’s role in national food security, the Chief Minister said, “Amidst the ongoing situation, Punjab is ready to provide 41 LMT of wheat currently in its godowns, along with 140 LMT expected this year and 139 LMT of paddy for serving people across the country. The state has always helped the needy and poor. If the country requires this 181 LMT of wheat and 139 LMT of paddy, it can be lifted anytime. Punjab will uphold its glorious tradition to support the nation in this hour of need and no stone will be left unturned for this noble cause.”

He also welcomed the Centre’s move on fuel pricing, stating, “The decision of the Government of India to reduce additional tax on petrol and diesel is a confidence-building measure.” Raising further concerns, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “The Union government must ensure regular supply of DAP fertilizer on priority as paddy transplantation in Punjab begins from June 1. The waiting period of 45 days for LPG refills in rural areas should also be reduced to 25 days, at par with urban areas.”

Referring to his interaction with the Prime Minister, he said, “During the virtual meeting, I flagged all key issues pertaining to Punjab. I urged the Prime Minister to proactively use diplomatic channels so that the country does not face any shortages. Though we claim to be a Vishav Guru, we must ensure that our actions reflect self-reliance and strategic strength in securing essential resources.”

March 28, 2026
CM Mann shares heartfelt birthday post for daughter Niyamat Kaur

Chandigarh: Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann on Saturday shared a photo on social media to wish his daughter, Niyamat Kaur, on her birthday.

In his post, Mann extended warm wishes to his daughter and expressed his affection, marking the occasion with a personal message.

The post quickly drew attention online, with supporters and well-wishers joining in to wishing her and sending wishes for her happiness, good health and a bright future.

The gesture added a personal touch to the Chief Minister’s otherwise busy public schedule, as greetings continued to pour in across social media platforms.

March 28, 2026
Punjab’s Investment Momentum Continues: 400 Cr Trident Hotel Project Announced for Amritsar: Sanjeev Arora

150-room premium hospitality project near Golden Temple to create around 350 jobs; major boost to Punjab’s tourism sector: Sanjeev Arora*

Chandigarh News (March 28, 2026): In a significant boost to Punjab’s tourism and hospitality sector, Cabinet Minister Sanjeev Arora announced that the Oberoi Group and Springedge Solutions Pvt. Ltd. have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for the development of a world-class hospitality project in Amritsar.

The MoU was signed in the presence of senior representatives of both sides, including Mr. R. Shankar, President – Corporate and Legal Affairs, Oberoi Group, and Dr. Shahbaz Singh, Dr. Avtar Singh and Dr. Amandeep Kaur, Directors of Springedge Solutions Pvt. Ltd. The signing ceremony was also attended by Mr. Gurkirat Kirpal Singh, Administrative Secretary, Industries & Commerce, Punjab.

Furthermore he informed that the upcoming 150-room project will be developed under the Trident brand of the Oberoi Group and will come up on Amritsar–Tarn Taran Road, around 3 kilometres from the Golden Temple. Spread over 3 acres, the project involves an investment of around ₹400 crore and is expected to significantly strengthen Amritsar’s premium hospitality infrastructure.

The project is expected to generate employment for around 350 persons, giving a further fillip to local economic activity and job creation, he added.

Sharing more details, he said that this hospitality venture will be developed as a joint collaboration between the Oberoi Group and Springedge Solutions Pvt. Ltd., bringing together the Oberoi Group’s globally respected expertise in luxury hospitality and Springedge’s strong local institutional presence.

Notably, this will be the first hotel in Punjab under the “Trident” brand. At present, 9 hotels are operational under the Trident brand across India. The Oberoi Group currently has 32 operational hotels across the country, while 10 more are in the pipeline. In Punjab, the Group already operates The Oberoi Sukhvilas Spa Resort, New Chandigarh under the Oberoi brand.

The Amritsar project is also significant as it is being described as the first Greenfield project of this scale under the Trident brand in Punjab. Work on the project is expected to begin in July 2026, with completion targeted for March 2029.

The Government of Punjab, through Invest Punjab, played a proactive role in facilitating this collaboration. Invest Punjab has been closely engaging with both parties for over one and a half years and was instrumental in bringing them together, reflecting the state government’s commitment to enabling high-value investments.

Highlighting Punjab’s strong industrial momentum, Cabinet Minister Sanjeev Arora informed that the state has attracted ₹59,448 crore of investments in 2025–26, the highest in its history, with a potential to generate 1,33,221 jobs. Further, since April 1, 2022, Punjab has attracted investments worth ₹1,59,947 crore, with an employment potential of 5,57,664 jobs, showcasing the growing confidence of investors in the state.

This collaboration marks another important milestone in Punjab’s journey towards becoming a preferred destination for high-end tourism, hospitality and investment, while further reinforcing Amritsar’s position as a global cultural and spiritual hub.

Cabinet Minister Sanjeev Arora said Punjab is emerging as a preferred destination not only for industry, but also for premium tourism and hospitality investments. With proactive support from Invest Punjab, such landmark projects are becoming a reality and contributing to the state’s economic growth.

March 28, 2026
AAP launches 100 new Mohalla Clinics in Punjab, total nears 1,000: Arvind Kejriwal

Chandigarh: Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann and AAP national convener Arvind Kejriwal on Saturday attended a state-level function at the new grain market in Sirhind, Fatehgarh Sahib, where the launch of 100 new Mohalla Clinics was announced.

Addressing the gathering, Kejriwal said the initiative marks a major expansion of accessible healthcare in the state. He added that with the new clinics, the total number of Mohalla Clinics in Punjab has reached nearly 1,000.

Kejriwal said that 881 Mohalla Clinics have already been set up over the past four years, and with the addition of 109 more, the number now stands at 990. He further announced plans to establish around 400 more clinics in the coming period, taking the total to approximately 1,500 across the state.

He said the aim is to ensure that every village and neighbourhood in Punjab has access to free healthcare services through Mohalla Clinics.

Highlighting the initiative, Kejriwal said that such large-scale, free primary healthcare facilities had not been developed in the past decades despite various governments being in power.

On the occasion, he also extended greetings on the birthday of Chief Minister Mann’s daughter, Niyamat Kaur, and sought blessings for her from the people of Punjab.

March 28, 2026
SGPC passes ₹1,487 crore budget for 2026-27, up 7.28% from last year

Amritsar: The Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC), often referred to as the “mini parliament of Sikhs”, on Saturday approved a budget of ₹1,487.41 crore for the financial year 2026-27 during its budget session.

The budget was presented by SGPC general secretary Sher Singh Mandwala in the presence of committee members at Teja Singh Samundri Hall under the leadership of SGPC president Harjinder Singh Dhami. It was passed amid slogans of approval by members.

The proposed budget reflects an increase of ₹100.94 crore compared to the previous financial year’s budget of around ₹1,386 crore, marking a 7.28% rise.

The session began with prayers in the presence of Guru Granth Sahib, followed by an ardas. Key religious figures, including Akal Takht acting jathedar Giani Kuldeep Singh Gargaj and Takht Sri Damdama Sahib jathedar Giani Tek Singh, were present.

During the general house meeting, several resolutions were also passed, including demands for the release of Sikh prisoners lodged in jails and calls for the government to place the draft law on sacrilege prevention before the Sikh community for consultation.

The house also expressed concern over issues related to Sikh identity and urged the community to remain vigilant.

March 28, 2026
NHM Punjab Partners with Jhpiego to Revolutionize Maternal and Child Healthcare

MoU signed with Jhpiego to strengthen RMNCHA+N services across the state

Chandigarh News (March 28): In a major push to elevate the standard of maternal and neonatal care in the state as per the vision of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, the National Health Mission (NHM) Punjab has entered into a long-term Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Jhpiego, an international non-governmental organization.

The MoU was signed by the Principal Secretary Health & Family Welfare Kumar Rahul and Country Director of Jhpiego Dr Amit Arun Shah, in the august presence of Punjab Health and Family Welfare Minister Dr Balbir Singh.

Sharing details of the collaboration, Dr Balbir Singh stated that this partnership is a significant step toward strengthening Reproductive, Maternal, Newborn, Child, Adolescent Health, and Nutrition (RMNCHA+N) services. He emphasized that the initiative aligns with the state’s commitment to innovation-driven public health reforms and positioning Punjab as a leader in digital health.

Dr Balbir Singh informed that the primary objective is to enhance technical support to improve maternal and child health outcomes. “Our focus will be on strengthening antenatal, intrapartum, and postnatal care through standardized identification and management of high-risk pregnancies using digital and data-driven approaches,” he added.

Underlining the technological aspect of the MoU, the Health Minister stated that the state will strengthen the integration of key digital health platforms, including beneficiary tracking systems, IoT-enabled devices, and labour room monitoring solutions. This will enable real-time tracking of pregnant women and newborns, ensuring early identification of high-risk cases and timely clinical interventions.

He further said that the collaboration would also encompass the capacity building of healthcare workers, intensive monitoring, supportive supervision, and policy-level technical assistance. These efforts are expected to significantly reduce maternal and neonatal mortality, contributing to the achievement of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

The ceremony was attended by senior officials of the Health Department, NHM Punjab, and various state-level stakeholders.

March 28, 2026
No lockdown in Punjab, fuel stocks sufficient: CM Bhagwant Mann amid panic rumours

Chandigarh: Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann on Saturday dismissed rumours of a possible lockdown, stating that there is no such plan despite global tensions due to conflict in Gulf countries.

Addressing the media in Chandigarh, Mann said the situation was reviewed during a recent meeting chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi with chief ministers of all states.

He assured that Punjab has adequate fuel reserves, including LPG stock for six days, petrol for 12 days and diesel for 14 days, urging people not to panic or indulge in hoarding.

The Chief Minister warned of strict action against petrol pumps found overcharging or creating artificial shortages. He added that additional fuel demand has been raised to ensure smooth wheat harvesting in the upcoming season.

Highlighting food reserves, Mann said Punjab currently has around 41 lakh metric tonnes of wheat and 139 lakh metric tonnes of rice in stock. He offered that the state is ready to support the country by supplying food grains through special trains if required.

Mann also urged the Prime Minister to use India’s global diplomatic ties to ensure uninterrupted supply chains and address challenges arising from the international situation.

He criticised global oil dynamics, saying India should not be dependent on limited approvals for oil purchases and called for stronger international engagement to safeguard the country’s energy needs.

March 28, 2026