*CM Bhagwant Singh Mann Gives Property Ownership Rights To Houses Built In Lal Lakir, Ending Decades-Long Wait For Ownership*
*Sword Hanging Over Lal Lakir From Govt Or Courts Will Now Be Removed Permanently: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*
*With Maps & Revenue Records Of Every House And Plot, Family Disputes Will End: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*
*Dalits & Landless People Living In ‘Abadi’ Will Have Their Names Entered In Govt Records For First Time: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*
*Every Property Will Get Card Carrying Unit Number, GPS Location, Drone Map And QR Code: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*
*By December, Houses Built In Lal Lakir In All Villages & Cities Will Get Ownership Rights: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*
*With Property Ownership Card, People Will Also Be Able To Take Bank Loans Against Their Houses When Needed: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*
*CM Bhagwant Singh Mann Distributes Property Ownership Certificates Among People In Sangrur Under ‘Mera Ghar Mere Naam’ Scheme*
DHURI; 7th October 2026:
Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann on Wednesday said Punjab has ended the decades-long wait for ownership rights to houses built in the Lal Lakir, handing Property Ownership Certificates to families under the ‘Mera Ghar Mere Naam’ scheme and marking the beginning of a process that will provide legally recorded ownership, mapped property boundaries and access to institutional credit. He said the initiative will particularly benefit poor, Dalit and landless families whose houses were earlier not part of government records, while accurate maps and revenue records will help resolve long-standing property disputes. After distributing the property ownership cards in Dhuri, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said the State has also initiated the process of freeing Punjab from the Lal Lakir, with around 4,000 villages set to receive proper registrations soon.
Taking to X, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann stated: “The massive gathering at the Dhuri rally has proved that the echo of our work resonates in every household of Punjab. By ending politics centred around families, we have made a historic beginning towards freeing Punjab from the ‘Lal Lakir’. Around 4,000 villages will soon get proper property registrations. We have gifted Dhuri a ₹47 crore water project. With canal water reaching 88% of agricultural land right up to the tail ends, crop yields of our farmers have increased. Punjab being No. 1 in education and healthcare, and zero electricity bills, are now a reality. We are not going to be intimidated by the threats of central agencies. Our only objective is to serve Punjab selflessly, and Punjabis do not tolerate anyone’s intimidation. Inquilab Zindabad.”
Addressing the gathering, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “The objective of the ‘Mera Ghar Mere Naam’ scheme is to provide every eligible family with a clear ownership right and documentary recognition of its own home. Our resolve is to ensure that the home of every eligible family is entered in the official records and that the family receives a document recognising its ownership. This initiative will strengthen the rights, dignity and future security of the people.”
The Chief Minister stated, “The massive gathering at the Dhuri rally has proved that the echo of our work resonates in every household of Punjab. By ending politics centred around families, we have made a historic beginning towards freeing Punjab from the Lal Lakir. Around 4,000 villages will soon get proper property registrations.”
He said, “Owning a home is deeply connected with every family’s emotions, aspirations and hopes for the future. Having a clear record of ownership of one’s home gives a family a sense of security and confidence. The key objective of the ‘Mera Ghar Mere Naam’ scheme is to ensure that no eligible family in Punjab feels insecure about its ownership rights over its home.”
CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “Several families in the villages have been living in their homes within the Lal Lakir for generations, and the absence of formal ownership records often creates various difficulties for them. A clear ownership document for a home where several generations of a family have lived is extremely important. The primary objective of the ‘Mera Ghar Mere Naam’ scheme is to provide eligible families with legal recognition of their ownership rights over their homes.”
Describing the scheme as a people-centric initiative, the Chief Minister said, “By providing people with ownership documents for their homes, the scheme is an important step towards addressing the long-standing gap in formal property records. A Property Card gives a family the assurance that the identity of its home and information relating to its ownership has been officially recorded.”
The Chief Minister said, “Under this scheme, drone surveys and modern technology are being used for the demarcation and mapping of properties. Through the survey, the location and boundaries of houses are being identified and ownership-related records are being prepared. The purpose of this process is to clearly establish people’s rights and bring greater transparency to property records, thereby reducing ambiguity regarding ownership in the future.”
He said, “With the issuance of Property Cards, eligible beneficiaries will receive documentary recognition and legal protection relating to the ownership of their homes. Clear records of house boundaries and ownership will help reduce misunderstandings and disputes relating to property ownership. The availability of formal property records can also facilitate the process of applying for loans from banks, but approval of any loan will remain subject to the concerned bank’s rules and eligibility criteria.”
He said the initiative will give people greater confidence to maintain and improve their homes and plan for their families’ future. “Our goal is to ensure that the benefits of this scheme reach every eligible family and that ownership records relating to their homes are clearly established,” he said.
Striking an emotional chord with the beneficiaries, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann stated, “I appeal to all beneficiaries to carefully verify the name, house details and other information mentioned on their Property Card. In case of any error or ambiguity, they should bring the matter to the notice of the concerned authorities.”
Giving details of the phased distribution, the Chief Minister said, “In the first phase, Property Cards are proposed to be distributed in 2,295 villages across Punjab, including 221 villages of Sangrur district. In the second phase, Property Cards will be distributed in 1,668 villages across Punjab. The third phase will run in November and the fourth in December.”
He said the phased distribution has been planned to ensure that Property Cards reach the maximum number of eligible beneficiaries in a smooth and systematic manner. “I appeal to the people to cooperate with the concerned teams during the survey, verification of records and distribution of Property Cards. This pro-people scheme is being implemented in mission mode and will cover the entire State by the end of this year,” he said.
CM Bhagwant Singh Mann also highlighted the development works being undertaken by the State Government, saying, “We have gifted Dhuri a ₹47 crore water project. With canal water reaching 88% of agricultural land right up to the tail ends, crop yields of our farmers have increased. Punjab being No. 1 in education and healthcare, and zero electricity bills, are now a reality.”
CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “We are not going to be intimidated by the threats of central agencies. Our only objective is to serve Punjab selflessly, and Punjabis do not tolerate anyone’s intimidation.”
*Transparent Process To Give Families Secure Ownership Rights*
The significance of ‘Mera Ghar Mere Naam’ lies not merely in handing over a Property Card, but in creating an official, verifiable Record of Rights for homes that were historically outside formal revenue records. Under the process, every house and plot in the notified abadi area is surveyed and mapped through modern technology, including drone mapping, while the owner is identified house by house by the Patwari or Survey Officer in the presence of the Village Level Committee. The draft map and ownership details are publicly displayed in the village and shared with the Panchayat, while owners receive their details on WhatsApp to verify the entries and seek corrections before the record is finalised. This transparent verification process gives families an opportunity to check their ownership details before they become part of the final Record of Rights.
Once finalised, the Record of Rights is formally attested and the Property Card is generated from it. The card carries the survey unit number, GPS location, drone map and QR code for online verification, giving the family a documented and verifiable record of its property. This is particularly significant for poor and Scheduled Caste families who have no land outside the abadi and for whom the house may be their only property. Formal recognition can provide greater security of ownership, help fix property boundaries and reduce disputes, while the property can also be offered as security for bank loans for business, farming, education or health. The record can further support registration, transfer and inheritance, with each co-owner’s share recorded. Gram Panchayats, meanwhile, get accurate maps of houses, roads, drains and public spaces for village development planning, while the administration gets digitised and accurate village records.
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*CM Bhagwant Singh Mann Gifts Clean Drinking Water To Lakhs Of Sangrur Residents*
*14 MLD-Capacity Plant Will Treat Canal Water And Make It Fit For Drinking: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*
*Plant Will Provide Clean Water To Lakhs & Also Help Conserve Groundwater: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*
*In 4 Years, We’ve Increased Canal Water Coverage Of Fields From 22% To 88%: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*
*Laid 14,000 Km Of Pipelines To Ensure Canal Water Reaches Every Field: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*
*Availability Of Canal Water In Fields Has Increased Paddy Yield By 4 Quintals Per Acre: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*
*CM Bhagwant Singh Mann Lays Foundation Stone For Water Treatment Plant At Bardwal Village In Dhuri Constituency*
SANGRUR; 7th October 2026:
Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann on Wednesday gifted a major clean drinking water project to the people of Dhuri and Sangrur, laying the foundation stone for a 14 MLD-capacity water treatment plant at Bardwal village at a cost of more than ₹47 crore. He said the plant would treat canal water to make it fit for drinking, providing clean water to lakhs of residents while also reducing dependence on groundwater. CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said that in just four years, the Punjab Government had increased canal water coverage of agricultural fields from 22% to 88% by laying 14,000 km of pipelines, resulting in an increase of up to four quintals per acre in paddy yield in areas with improved canal water availability.
Taking to X, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann stated: “Today, we have given the people of Dhuri a major gift in the form of a 14 MLD-capacity water treatment plant built at a cost of more than ₹47 crore. Now, canal water will be treated to make it completely potable and clean drinking water will be provided to the residents of the city and surrounding areas. Our government has increased the use of canal water from 22% to 88%, which has not only increased crop yields but also helped conserve groundwater. From today, we are also starting the process of registering land falling within the Lal Dora, so that people can get permanent ownership rights over their homes…”
Addressing the gathering, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “The aim of this project is to further strengthen the water supply system in Dhuri city. A canal-water-based water supply project is being implemented at a total cost of ₹47.38 crore, under which a 14 MLD (Million Litres per Day) Water Treatment Plant will be established.”
The Chief Minister stated, “Through this Water Treatment Plant, canal water will be treated to provide clean, safe and quality drinking water to the people. The residents of Dhuri city will directly benefit from this project and, upon its completion, approximately 85,000 residents of Dhuri will benefit from improved water supply facilities.”
He noted, “This multi-crore project has been designed not only to strengthen Dhuri’s urban infrastructure but also to address the city’s present and future water requirements. The primary objective is to provide the people of Dhuri with better-quality and reliable water supply.”
CM Bhagwant Singh Mann stated, “Groundwater is one of our greatest natural assets, but its continuously declining level is a matter of serious concern for all of us. The state government has taken historic steps to reduce dependence on groundwater and make maximum and judicious use of canal water.”
The Chief Minister affirmed, “Our sole aim is to conserve this precious resource for future generations and strenuous efforts are being made in this regard. When our government assumed charge, only 22% of the water used for agriculture came through canals, but this figure has now increased to 88%. Clean drinking water is not a luxury for any citizen; it is a basic necessity and right of everyone. Contaminated or polluted water is the root cause of many serious diseases.”
He said, “With the implementation of this project, the people of Dhuri, especially our mothers, sisters and children, will be able to lead healthier lives and remain protected from water-borne diseases. The sole objective of the state government is the all-round development of Punjab.”
CM Bhagwant Singh Mann stated, “We do not merely make announcements on paper. We believe in completing projects on the ground in a time-bound manner. This ₹47.38-crore project is a testimony to that commitment and sincere intent. I have a special attachment to Dhuri city. The love and trust that the people of this region have given me is a debt that I will repay by bringing bigger and more transformative development projects to the area.”
“Keeping future needs in mind, the state government will leave no stone unturned to strengthen Dhuri’s basic infrastructure and provide better facilities to its people,” he added.
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Information and Public Relations Department, Punjab
*DAY 260 OF GANGSTRAN TE VAAR: PUNJAB POLICE CONDUCTS 563 RAIDS; 230 HELD*
*— POLICE TEAMS ALSO TAKE PREVENTIVE ACTION AGAINST 226 INDIVIDUALS*
*— PEOPLE CAN ANONYMOUSLY REPORT GANGSTER-RELATED INFORMATION VIA ANTI-GANGSTER HELPLINE NUMBER 93946-93946*
*— 90 DRUG SMUGGLERS HELD ON DAY 585 OF YUDH NASHIAN VIRUDH*
CHANDIGARH, October 7:
As the decisive ‘Gangstran Te Vaar’ campaign enters its 260th day, Punjab Police today conducted 563 raids at identified and mapped locations linked to associates of gangsters across the state.
As per the information, the “Gangstran Te Vaar”— a decisive war to make Punjab a gangster-free state was launched by the Director General of Police (DGP) Punjab Gaurav Yadav on January 20, 2026. Police teams from all the districts in coordination with Anti-Gangster Task Force (AGTF) Punjab have been conducting special operations across the state.
On Day 260, Police teams arrested 230 individuals held with one weapon, taking the total arrests to 76,820 since the launch of the campaign.
Apart from this, preventive action has been taken against 226 persons. Police teams have also arrested five Proclaimed Offenders (POs) during the operation.
People can anonymously report information related to wanted criminals and gangsters, and also share tips on crime and criminal activity, through the Anti Gangster Helpline number 93946-93946.
Meanwhile, Police teams have continued its drive against drugs “Yudh Nashian Virudh” for 585th day with 90 drug smugglers arrested today and recovered 340 grams heroin, 1.2 kg opium, 398 intoxicant pills and Rs 10.99 lakhs drug money from their possession. With this, the number of total drug smugglers arrested has reached to 83,049 in just 585 days. As part of De-addiction, the Punjab Police has convinced 10 persons to undergo de-addiction and rehabilitation treatment today.
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VIGILANCE BUREAU PUNJAB
*Vigilance Bureau nabs Patwari & his Agent red handed accepting bribe of Rs 4,000/-*
Chandigarh, 7 October 2026:
The Punjab Vigilance Bureau (VB) during its ongoing drive against corruption in the state, the Punjab Vigilance Bureau (VB) has apprehended Patwari Ankur Kataria posted at Patwarkhana Lohara, district Ludhiana and his Agent Raja, red-handed accepting a bribe of Rs 4,000/-.
Disclosing this here today, an official spokesperson of the state VB said the above-mentioned accused has been arrested based on a complaint lodged by a resident of New Ram Nagar, Lohara district Ludhiana.
He stated that the complainant approached Patwari Ankur Kataria to obtain a 30-year ownership record of her house, a document required to secure a bank loan. The accused Patwari directed her to coordinate with an intermediary named Raja. The agent, Raja, demanded an illegal gratification of Rs. 5,000/- in exchange for providing the required revenue record of her house. He accepted Rs.1,000/- on the spot as an first installment, and thereafter agreed to take the remaining balance of bribe money of Rs.4,000/- at the delivery time of 30-year revenue record of her house.
Unwilling to pay the illegal gratification, complainant approached the VB Range Ludhiana. Acting on his complaint, the VB team laid a trap during which both accused Patwari and his Agent were arrested red handed while accepting bribe money of Rs 4,000/- from the complainant in presence of two official witnesses.
In this regard, a case under prevention of corruption act has been registered against the accused at VB police station Ludhiana and further investigation into this case is under progress.
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Information and Public Relations Department, Punjab
*JUVENILE AMONG EIGHT LINKED TO ILLEGAL ARMS SUPPLY NETWORK HELD; 15 PISTOLS RECOVERED*
*— ARRESTED ACCUSED WERE ALLEGEDLY LINKED TO FOREIGN-BASED ARMS SMUGGLERS: DGP GAURAV YADAV*
*— ACCUSED WERE PROCURING ILLEGAL FIREARMS FROM COMMON SOURCE TO SUPPLY THEM IN REGION: CP ASR HARMANBIR GILL*
CHANDIGARH/AMRITSAR, October 7:
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, Amritsar Commissionerate Police has dismantled three illegal arms supply networks with the arrest of eight individuals including one juvenile and recovered 15 illegal sophisticated pistols from their possession, said Director General of Police (DGP) Punjab Gaurav Yadav here on Wednesday.
Those arrested have been identified as Satnam Singh alias Sukha (20), a resident of village Pato Hira Singh in Moga; Bhalla Singh (26), a resident of village Manoke Gill in Moga; Gautam Singh alias Billa (23), a resident of village Ahmadpura in Tarn Taran; Manvir Singh alias Gurvir Singh (24), a resident of Vishal Nagar in Ludhiana; Jaskarandeep Singh alias Jassa (23), a resident of village Bhuchar Kalan in Tarn Taran; Simranjit Sandhu alias Billa (27), a resident of Nive Tung in Amritsar; Abhi alias Bawa (25), a resident of Vadda Haripura in Amritsar and one 17-years-old juvenile.
The recovered weapons include three .30 bore Beretta (Made in Italy), one .30 bore PX-5 Storm, one .30 bore (Made in China), eight .30 bore and two .32 bore pistols along with 15 live cartridges. Apart from recovering weapons, police teams have also impounded their two cars being used from criminal activities.
DGP Gaurav Yadav said that preliminary investigation has revealed that the accused were allegedly linked to foreign-based arms smugglers and were procuring illegal weapons for further distribution to criminal elements in the region. Investigation has also revealed links of the accused with other associates involved in the illegal arms supply network, he said.
The DGP said that further investigation is underway to uncover the complete backward and forward linkages in this case to identify other persons involved.
Sharing details of first operation, Commissioner of Police (CP) Amritsar Harmanbir Singh Gill said that acting on specific information and following a systematic investigation, police teams arrested Satnam alias Sukha and Bhalla Singh, when they were travelling in their car, and recovered five pistols along with five live cartridges from their possession.
In another operation, he said that police arrested Gautam alias Billa, Manvir alias Gurvir Singh and Jaskarandeep alias Jassa and recovered seven illegal pistols along with 10 live cartridges, besides, impounding their car.
In third operation, the CP said that acting on specific information, police teams arrested Simranjit alias Billa, following which his associates Abhi alias Bawa and one juvenile were also apprehended. A total of three pistols were recovered during the investigation, he added.
He said that probe has revealed that the accused were allegedly procuring illegal firearms from a common source and subsequently supplying the weapons at different locations.
In this regard, three separate cases— FIR no. 184 dated 02.10.2026 under sections 25 and 25(6,7,8) of the Arms Act at Police Station Cantonment; FIR no. 301 dated 03.10.2026 under section 25(8) of the Arms Act at Police Station Islamabad; FIR no. 235 dated 04.10.2026 under sections 25(6,7,8) of the Arms Act at Police Station Chheharta in Amritsar— have been registered.
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Information and Public Relations Department Punjab
*Speaker Sandhwan Resumes Public Service in Punjab After Impactful International Tour*
*Speaker Sandhwan participated in 67th Commonwealth Parliamentary Conference held at South Africa*
Chandigarh 7 October 2026:
Following a series of productive international visits aimed at strengthening democratic ties and engaging the global Punjabi diaspora, Punjab Vidhan Sabha Speaker Kultar Singh Sandhwan has returned to his homeland to resume his active service to the people of Punjab.
Reflecting on his journey, Speaker Sandhwan invoked the timeless philosophy of Sahib Shri Guru Nanak Dev Ji. He recalled the historic narrative where Guru Ji told the bad people to “stay” and the good people to “go away.” When Bhai Mardana Ji questioned this, Guru Ji explained that evil deeds remain contained if the bad stay in one place, whereas good people spread virtue, goodness, and the spirit of service wherever they travel.
"Inspired by this great ideology, the sons and daughters of Punjab are making their mark in every corner of the world today through hard work, talent, and passion," said Speaker Sandhwan. "Wherever a Punjabi settles, they carry our language, culture, heritage, and values of unity with them."
The international tour was designed to understand the parliamentary systems, democratic frameworks, and working methods of various nations, while simultaneously connecting with the Punjabi and Sikh communities abroad to understand their needs, sentiments, and concerns.
*Key Highlights of the International Tour:*
*Berlin, Germany:* Met with the officials of the Indian High Commission and members of the Punjabi community to discuss regional issues and the expectations of NRIs.
*Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia:* Held extensive talks with the Sikh diaspora to reinforce emotional, cultural, and social bonds with Punjab.
*Penang, Malaysia:* Convened with Chief Minister Mr. Chow Kon Yeo and Deputy Chief Minister Mr. Jagdeep Singh Deo to deliberate on the welfare of the Punjabi community and enhance mutual cooperation in diverse sectors.
*South Africa:* Participated in the 67th Commonwealth Parliamentary Conference, discussing democratic principles, parliamentary structures, and international cooperation with global delegates.
*Canada & Other Nations:* Attended several community events and high-level meetings focused on Punjab's development and fostering bilateral relations.
The core discussions across these nations centered around pivotal issues, including boosting investment and employment in Punjab, promoting industrial and trade cooperation, expanding direct international flight connectivity, and actively involving the global diaspora in the state's progress.
"The Punjabi community living abroad is an invaluable part of our heritage and culture," Speaker Sandhwan stated. "I have returned to my homeland to utilize the experiences, ideas, and strategic contacts gained during this visit for the ultimate benefit of Punjab. Our efforts will focus heavily on three continuous objectives: keeping Punjab's voice strong abroad, maintaining deep ties with our diaspora, and driving betterment and prosperity at home."
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Information and Public Relations Department, Punjab
*8.50 Lakh Metric Tonnes of paddy arrived in Punjab grain markets so far: Cabinet Minister Lal Chand Kataruchak*
*- 7.50 Lakh Metric Tonnes of paddy procured in Punjab grain markets so far*
*- Don't burn stubble to save Punjab's water, air and land from pollution: Lal Chand Kataruchak*
*- Also appealed to farmers to bring only dry paddy to mandis*
*- Cabinet Minister Kataruchak reviews paddy procurement arrangements at Jagraon grain market*
Chandigarh/Khanna (Ludhiana), October 7:
The Paddy procurement is going on smoothly throughout the State and 8.50 lakh metric tonnes of paddy has arrived in the grain markets of Punjab, out of which 7.50 lakh metric tonnes has been procured by various government procurement agencies.
This was disclosed by Food, Civil Supplies and Consumer Affairs Minister, Punjab, Mr. Lal Chand Kataruchak, while reviewing the paddy procurement arrangements at Jagraon grain market. On this occasion, he was accompanied by MLA from Jagraon - Sarvjit Kaur Manuke.
The Cabinet Minister said that during the paddy procurement season 2026-27, a target of procuring 180 lakh metric tonnes of paddy has been fixed and the farmers' crop is being purchased at Rs. 2461 per quintal. He informed that a Cash Credit Limit (CCL) of Rs. 42,786.68 crore has been released by the RBI for paddy procurement, ensuring immediate and hassle-free payment to farmers after purchase. He said that bardana has also reached the mandis.
Mr. Kataruchak assured that the Punjab Government will procure every single grain of the crop and no one will be allowed to bring paddy from other states into Punjab's mandis. He said that no difficulty will be allowed to be faced by farmers and arhtiyas during the procurement season.
He informed that as per the directions of Chief Minister Mr. Bhagwant Singh Mann, he is visiting various grain markets of Punjab to review the procurement arrangements and Ludhiana is his 11th district. He said that payment for the procured crop is being made into the farmers' bank accounts within 24 hours.
The Cabinet Minister directed the officials that there should be no difficulty regarding transport, payment, bardana and lifting. He said that farmers are 'Annadatas' and they should be treated with full respect. He appealed to the farmers to bring only dry and clean paddy to the mandis, so that immediate procurement of the crop can be done.
Expressing satisfaction over the arrangements at Jagraon grain market, Mr. Kataruchak said that it is a large grain market and the arrangements made in the mandi, including lights at a cost of about Rs. 2.5 crore by MLA Sarvjit Kaur Manuke, are commendable.
Regarding stubble management, he said that saving Punjab's water, air and land from pollution is everyone's shared responsibility. The Minister also expressed hope that farmers will not burn stubble and with the efforts of the State Government, great success will be achieved in protecting the environment.
MLA Sarvjit Kaur Manuke said that under the leadership of Chief Minister Mr. Bhagwant Singh Mann, the interests of farmers are most important for the Punjab Government. She said that farmers should not be allowed to face any harassment while selling their crop in the mandis. She also appealed to the farmers to bring only dry and clean paddy to the mandis as per the prescribed moisture norms, so that unnecessary delay in procurement can be avoided.
On this occasion, Chairman Market Committee Jagraon Kulwinder Singh Jhajj, Deputy Director Food and Civil Supplies Department, Patiala Dr. Navneet, District Food Supply Controller (Ludhiana West) Sartaj Singh Cheema, President Arhtiya Association Jagraon Jagpal Singh Kaler, President Rice Mill Association Hari Om Mittal besides a large number of arhtiyas and farmers were present.
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Information and Public Relations Department, Punjab
*Horticulture Minister Mohinder Bhagat Holds Crucial Meeting with Punjab Cold Storage Owners Association Representatives*
*State Government Committed to Resolving Every Genuine Demand of Farmers to Promote Horticulture*
Chandigarh, October 7:
Horticulture Minister Mr Mohinder Bhagat today held a crucial meeting with representatives of the Punjab Cold Storage Owners Association (POSCON) in Chandigarh. Various issues concerning the cold storage sector were discussed during the meeting. Listening to the demands raised by the association, he said that every genuine demand would be addressed to promote horticulture in the state and provide better facilities to farmers.
During the meeting, representatives of POSCON highlighted the importance of cold storages in preserving agricultural and horticultural produce and brought various issues concerning these units to the notice of the Horticulture Minister.
Mr Mohinder Bhagat said that cold storages play an important role in preserving agricultural and horticultural produce. These facilities not only help protect farmers’ produce but also help reduce post-harvest losses. He said that it was essential to strengthen the cold storage infrastructure linked to the agriculture and horticulture sectors. He assured the representatives that their demands would be taken up with the concerned departments and appropriate action would be taken as per the rules.
Mr Mohinder Bhagat said that the Punjab Government, under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, is continuously working for the welfare of farmers and horticulturists. He said that special focus was being laid on strengthening the horticulture sector and providing necessary facilities to farmers.
Additional Secretary, Horticulture Department, Mr Latif Ahmed, Director Mr Manish Kumar and other officers were also present on the occasion.
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INFORMATION AND PUBLIC RELATIONS DEPARTMENT, PUNJAB
*MINING DEPT UNEARTH ILLEGAL MINING AT TWO PLACES; FIRs REGISTERED: BARINDER KUMAR GOYAL*
*ILLEGAL SAND MINING UNEARTHED AT KOT SIDHU VILLAGE IN AMRITSAR; MACHINERY AND TIPPERS IDENTIFIED*
*UNNUMBERED SAND-LOADED TIPPER INTERCEPTED AT SIDHWAN BET IN LUDHIANA*
*SO FAR, 247 FIRs, 598 CHALLANS REGISTERED; AROUND RS.8-CR PENALTY IMPOSED*
*Chandigarh/Amritsar/Ludhiana, October 7:*
Punjab Mines and Geology Minister Sh. Barinder Kumar Goyal today informed that in a major late-night operation, a joint team of the Mining Department and police conducted raid at illegal sand mining site in Village Kot Sidhu, Tehsil Lopoke in district Amritsar, where the team unearthed active and unauthorized excavation at the site.
The authorities successfully identified three JCB excavators bearing chassis numbers RAJ3DXX4A03117476 and HAR3DXX4K03070706, along with one unnumbered unit and seven tipper trucks registered under numbers PB 02 DX 5572, PB 02 EJ 0301, PB 02 EC 7695, PB 02 ER 7191, PB 02 EE 6944, PB 02 EJ 0410 and PB 02 EQ 9399, he added.
The Cabinet Minister said that FIR No. 0160/2026 was registered at Police Station Bhindi Saidan under Section 21(1) of the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act, 1957. The identities and details of the landowners and vehicle/excavator owners are currently part of the ongoing police investigation to ensure strict legal action against all perpetrators involved.
The Mines and Geology Minister further said that similarly, during an operation conducted by the Mining Department, Ludhiana, a sand-loaded tipper coming from the Sidhwan Bet area was intercepted and checked at night. During inspection, it was found that the vehicle did not have any number plate.
Taking strict action in the matter, the Mining Department handed over the unnumbered tipper to Police Station Sidhwan Bet and an FIR No. 0283 dated 06-10-2026 has been registered.
The Mines and Geology Minister further informed that till October 6, 2026, the Mining Department has registered 247 FIRs and issued 598 challans under Rule 74 and 75 across the State. He said that a total penalty of over Rs.7.92 crore has been imposed against which over Rs.7.69 crore has been recovered.
Giving the details of some districts, Sh. Barinder Kumar Goyal said that Amritsar recorded 16 FIRs and 25 challans with a penalty of Rs. 46.87 lakh and recovery of Rs. 42.79 lakh. Hoshiarpur recorded 20 FIRs and 84 challans with a penalty of Rs. 129.39 lakh and recovery of Rs. 125.81 lakh while Pathankot recorded 5 FIRs and 101 challans with a penalty of Rs. 176.89 lakh and the entire amount was recovered.
He further said that Gurdaspur recorded 55 FIRs, the highest among all districts, along with 24 challans with a penalty of Rs. 39.57 lakh and recovery of the entire amount. SAS Nagar recorded 27 FIRs and 67 challans with a penalty of Rs. 87.95 lakh and recovery of Rs. 82.86 lakh while Sri Anandpur Sahib recorded 32 FIRs and 30 challans with a penalty of Rs. 52.99 lakh and recovery of Rs. 48.91 lakh.