*Vigilance Bureau nabs Patwari red handed accepting bribe of Rs 30,000/-*
Chandigarh, 16 October 2026:
The Punjab Vigilance Bureau (VB) during its ongoing drive against corruption in the state, has apprehended Patwari Manish Kumar posted at revenue office Tapa district Barnala red-handed accepting a bribe of Rs 30,000/-.
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 village Bhotna tehsil Tapa district Barnala.
He stated that the complainant alleged that the accused demanded illegal gratification of Rs. 30,000/- in lieu of executing the mutation of his land.
Unwilling to pay the illegal gratification, complainant approached the VB Range Patiala. Acting on his complaint, the VB team laid a trap during which accused Patwari Manish Kumar was arrested red handed while accepting bribe money of Rs 30,000/- 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 Patiala and further investigation into this case is under progress.
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*Punjab Government Strengthens Menstrual Health and Dignity of Women Through ₹9.75 Crore Free Sanitary Pad Initiative: Dr Baljit Kaur*
*Over 2.45 Crore Sanitary Pads Distributed, Benefiting More Than 13.65 Lakh Women Across Punjab*
*Under the 'Navi Disha' Scheme, Nine Free Sanitary Pads Being Provided Every Month Through 27,314 Anganwadi Centres*
*Chief Minister S. Bhagwant Singh Mann-led Government Committed to Ensuring Every Woman's Health, Dignity and Confidence*
Chandigarh, October 16:
Reaffirming its commitment to women-centric welfare and inclusive development, the Punjab Government, under the leadership of Chief Minister S. Bhagwant Singh Mann, has taken a significant step towards promoting menstrual health, hygiene and dignity among women across the State. The initiative aims to improve access to essential menstrual hygiene products for women belonging to economically weaker and underprivileged sections of society.
Sharing this information, Punjab's Minister for Social Security, Women and Child Development, Dr Baljit Kaur, said that during the current financial year, the State Government has distributed more than 2.45 crore sanitary pads free of cost at an expenditure of approximately ₹9.75 crore, benefiting over 13.65 lakh women across Punjab.
The Cabinet Minister said that access to safe menstrual hygiene products is not merely a health necessity but also a matter of women's dignity, confidence and empowerment. She noted that the initiative has significantly enhanced awareness about menstrual hygiene while easing the financial burden on women from disadvantaged backgrounds, enabling them to lead healthier and more dignified lives.
Dr Baljit Kaur further informed that under the 'Navi Disha' Scheme, every eligible woman is being provided 9 sanitary pads free of cost every month through 27,314 Anganwadi Centres across the State. She said this extensive distribution network is ensuring uninterrupted access to menstrual hygiene products, particularly for women residing in rural and underserved areas.
Highlighting the broader social impact of the scheme, the Minister said the initiative is helping break long-standing myths and social taboos associated with menstruation. It is encouraging open conversations, improving awareness and promoting healthy menstrual hygiene practices among women and adolescent girls.
Dr Baljit Kaur reiterated that the Punjab Government is fully committed to ensuring that every woman, irrespective of her socio-economic background, has access to essential health and hygiene facilities. She said, "Our objective is to ensure that no woman is deprived of basic menstrual hygiene products because of financial constraints. A healthy woman lays the foundation of a healthy family, and healthy families together build a stronger, healthier and more prosperous Punjab."
Reaffirming the Government's commitment, the Minister said that under the leadership of Chief Minister S. Bhagwant Singh Mann, the Punjab Government will continue implementing progressive, people-centric and women-focused initiatives to safeguard the health, dignity and overall well-being of women while building a more inclusive, empowered and prosperous Punjab.
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*Eradicating Drugs From Punjab Is Govt's Biggest Target: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*
*Govt Working Wholeheartedly To Remove Stigma Of Drugs From Punjab: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*
*Police Have Full Freedom To Take Strict Action Against Drugs, Govt Will Not Interfere: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*
*Police To Soon Get 117 New Vehicles To Intensify ‘Yudh Nashean Virudh’: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*
*Drugs Are Being Sold Rampantly In Delhi, UP And Haryana, Yet Punjab Is Being Defamed: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*
*Centre Must Stop Drugs Coming Through Border & Gujarat Instead Of Defaming Punjabis: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*
*Conspirators Behind Murder Of Social Activist In Mansa Will Also Face Strict Punishment: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*
*CM Bhagwant Singh Mann Reviews ‘Yudh Nashean Virudh’ Campaign At Police Academy In Phillaur*
PHILLAUR; 16th October 2026:
Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann on Friday asserted that eradicating drugs is the state government’s biggest priority, declaring that the Punjab Police has complete freedom to take strict action against drug traffickers without political interference. Reviewing the ‘Yudh Nashean Virudh’ at the Punjab Police Academy in Phillaur, he announced 117 new vehicles for DSPs to strengthen the crackdown and called for turning the fight against drugs into a people’s movement.
Hitting out at the Centre, the Chief Minister said that while drugs were being sold rampantly in Delhi, Uttar Pradesh and Haryana, Punjab was being singled out and Punjabis were being defamed. He urged the Centre to stop the flow of drugs across the international border and from Gujarat instead of maligning Punjab, while asserting that those behind the murder of a social activist in Mansa would also face strict punishment.
Taking to X, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann stated: “Today, I attended the review meeting of the ‘Yudh Nashean Virudh’ campaign at the Punjab Police Academy in Phillaur and held important discussions with senior police officials. The fight against drugs is not just the responsibility of the police; it must become a people’s movement. We have given the police complete freedom to perform their duties without any recommendations or interference. To further strengthen the police department, we have today approved 117 new vehicles for DSPs (Deputy Superintendent of Police). We will never allow the sacred land of the Gurus and saints to be tarnished by the stigma of drugs. Let us unite to rebuild a ‘Rangla Punjab’ rooted in the principles of justice upheld by Maharaja Ranjit Singh. Inquilab Zindabad.”
Addressing the gathering, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said that ‘Yudh Nashean Virudh’ has evolved into a mass movement aimed at safeguarding the future of the state and its younger generations. “Drugs are not merely a law-and-order challenge but a grave social menace threatening the dreams, aspirations and lives of thousands of young Punjabis. The government is firmly committed to dismantling the entire drug network and restoring the glory of Punjab,” he said.
The Chief Minister said that the mission could achieve lasting success only when every citizen became an active participant in this collective struggle. “The ‘Yudh Nashean Virudh’ cannot be won by the police alone; rather it has to become a people’s movement, with every family, every village, every neighbourhood and every responsible citizen standing united against this menace. The future of Punjab is at stake, and we cannot afford to remain silent spectators,” he said.
The Chief Minister affirmed, “The Punjab government has adopted a comprehensive strategy to strike at both the supply and demand sides of the drug problem. Sustained action against drug traffickers has helped disrupt the supply chain and that the government will continue to act firmly against those involved in pushing Punjab’s youth towards addiction.”
He pointed out, “Drug addicts should not be viewed merely as offenders but as victims who need care, compassion, treatment and an opportunity to rebuild their lives.”
The Chief Minister cautioned that those who profit from the suffering of young people by manufacturing, smuggling and selling drugs will not be spared. “Those trapped in addiction need our support to return to normal life, while those poisoning our society for their selfish interests must face the full force of the law. The state government will not allow drug smugglers to destroy the homes of ordinary Punjabis and then escape accountability,” he said.
The Chief Minister said that his government is determined to break the nexus responsible for the drug trade and ensure that the benefits of its crackdown reached every village and town. He urged people to share credible information with the authorities and cooperate with law-enforcement agencies without fear.
Highlighting the role of sports in the fight against drugs, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said that sports are among the most effective instruments for channelising the energy of young people towards constructive pursuits. “A healthy sporting culture inculcates discipline, teamwork, determination and a sense of purpose, while providing young people with positive alternatives to substance abuse. A playground can become the strongest defence against a drug den as sports field gives our youth a goal to pursue, a team to belong to and a dream to fulfil,” he said.
The Chief Minister said that his government wants the young people to carry sports kits in their hands, medals around their necks and pride in their hearts, rather than fall prey to drugs. “Our government is promoting sports infrastructure and opportunities at the grassroots level so that talent could flourish in villages, towns and cities alike. The objective is not merely to produce champions for national and international competitions but also to build a healthier, more confident and drug-free generation,” he affirmed.
Referring to the ‘Khedan Watan Punjab Diyan’ initiative, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said that the sports festival has emerged as a powerful platform for bringing people together and encouraging participation across age groups. “Three generations are participating together, reflecting the growing enthusiasm for sports among children, young people and senior citizens. Such initiatives are helping revive Punjab’s traditional sporting spirit while strengthening social bonds and promoting a culture of fitness and discipline,” he said.
The Chief Minister urged families to encourage their children to participate in sports and asked community organisations, educational institutions and village-level bodies to make playgrounds vibrant centres of positive activity. “When grandparents, parents and children participate in sports together, they are not merely playing a game but building a healthier society and strengthening the bonds that hold our communities together. This is the Punjab that we want to build, a Punjab where young people are recognised for their talent, hard work and achievements,” he said.
Inviting sports lovers and citizens from across the state to participate enthusiastically in the upcoming Men’s Asian Champions Trophy, scheduled from October 27 to November 5, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said that hosting major sporting events is an opportunity to celebrate Punjab’s glorious sporting legacy and inspire the next generation.
The Chief Minister urged people to come forward in large numbers and encourage the participating teams, adding that Punjab had always been synonymous with courage, perseverance and sporting excellence. “Punjab’s contribution to Indian hockey and other sports has been immense, and the government is committed to restoring the state’s position at the forefront of the sporting world. Sports have played a stellar role in shaping Punjab’s identity, and the government will continue to provide opportunities for budding athletes to showcase their abilities,” he said.
The Chief Minister expressed confidence that the sporting spirit of Punjab will help unite people across communities and strengthen the collective resolve to defeat drugs.
Lauding the stellar role of Punjab Police, he also said that the force had scripted history through its achievements in challenging circumstances and will rise to the occasion once again in the war against drugs. “Punjab Police has demonstrated its mettle on numerous occasions in the past, and I am confident that the officers and personnel will write another remarkable chapter by dismantling the drug networks operating in the state,” he said.
The Chief Minister said that the fight of the Punjab government is against those who destroy lives and undermine the future of our youth. He called upon police personnel and other officials to discharge their duties honestly, impartially and without any fear or favour. “The government stands firmly behind officers who act professionally, uphold the law and work in the public interest,” he said.
Referring to the unfortunate incident in Mansa, the Chief Minister said that the matter will be dealt with firmly and that those found responsible will face exemplary punishment in accordance with the law. He asserted that every relevant aspect of the incident will be thoroughly investigated and that the conspiracy, if established by the investigation, will be exposed. “No individual involved in wrongdoing will be allowed to escape accountability. Every relevant aspect of the incident will be thoroughly investigated, and any conspiracy established during the investigation will be exposed,” he affirmed.
CM Bhagwant Singh Mann also cautioned against allowing such incidents to weaken the resolve of those working sincerely for the welfare of society. “The law will take its course, and justice will be ensured, adding that those responsible for the incident will not be spared, and every effort will be made to uncover the truth behind it,” he added.
“The officers must perform their duties honestly and fearlessly, knowing that the government expects integrity, accountability and dedication from every public servant,” said CM Bhagwant Singh Mann.
The Chief Minister further highlighted the achievements of Punjab in the field of school education, asserting that the state was emerging as a frontrunner through sustained reforms and a renewed focus on quality education. “Investment in education is an investment in the future of Punjab, enabling children from ordinary families to aspire to greater heights,” he said.
He said that the government is committed to strengthening educational institutions, improving learning outcomes and ensuring that students received opportunities to excel irrespective of their social or economic background.
The Chief Minister further said that a combination of quality education, sporting opportunities and a sustained campaign against drugs can transform the lives of young people. “Punjab’s future depends on empowering its youth with education, employment opportunities, sporting facilities and a drug-free environment,” he said.
The Chief Minister called upon citizens to rise above political and personal differences and unite for this common cause. “The mission of our government is bigger than any individual, party or government, adding that it is about saving our children, protecting our families and securing the future of Punjab. Together, we will defeat the drug menace, nurture sporting talent and build a state where every young person can dream fearlessly and fulfil those dreams with dignity,” he asserted.
The Chief Minister said that it is unfortunate that the Centre is questioning Punjab’s war against drugs when the state is fighting a battle for the entire nation. “The area upto 50-kilometre radius along the international border falls under the jurisdiction of the Border Security Force (BSF), yet Punjab is relentlessly fighting the drug menace with an unwavering commitment to protect its youth and future generations,” he said.
He said that the war against drugs is not Punjab’s battle alone, rather it is a national war that demands collective responsibility, coordination and decisive action.
On the occasion Cabinet Ministers Aman Arora, Harpal Singh Cheema, Dr Balbir Singh and Tarunpreet Singh Sond, Director General (DGP) of Police Gaurav Yadav and others were also present.
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*Exposure Visit and Mock Drill on Chlorination Safety and Fire Safety Successfully Conducted at Pabra Surface Water Project, Patiala*
*Chandigarh/Patiala, October 16:*
An Exposure Visit-cum-Mock Drill on Chlorination Safety and Fire Safety was successfully conducted at the Pabra Surface Water Project, Patiala, on 16 October 2026. The programme was organised to enhance safety awareness, strengthen emergency preparedness, and promote the adoption of good safety practices at Surface Water Treatment Plant (WTP) sites across Punjab.
The programme commenced with a welcome address by Sh. Sarbjit Singh, Executive Engineer (SES) and Senior Environment Specialist, who emphasised the importance of workplace safety, preventive measures, and preparedness to handle emergencies at Water Treatment Plant sites.
The programme was attended by Sub-Divisional Engineers (SDEs), Junior Engineers (JEs), and Project Managers associated with Surface Water Projects from across Punjab.
The fire safety mock drill was conducted by Sh. Raman Kumar from the Department of Fire Services, Punjab, who demonstrated fire emergency response procedures and the safe use of firefighting equipment. The session on chlorination safety was conducted by a resource person from Bodal Chemicals Ltd., who explained the safe handling and storage of chlorine, preventive measures, precautions against chlorine leakage, and emergency response procedures.
The practical demonstrations provided valuable hands-on exposure to the participants and enhanced their understanding of fire prevention, chlorine leak management, occupational safety, and emergency response at Water Treatment Plant sites.
The programme was successfully conducted through the dedicated efforts and effective coordination of the divisional-level officers and the team of M/s KNK Pvt. Ltd. Their contribution in making the necessary arrangements and facilitating the practical sessions played an important role in the successful completion of the programme.
The initiative reflects the Department's commitment to strengthening environmental safeguards, ensuring the safety of personnel, and promoting a culture of safety and emergency preparedness at Surface Water Treatment Plant sites across Punjab.
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*DAY 269 OF GANGSTRAN TE VAAR: PUNJAB POLICE CONDUCTS 500 RAIDS; 207 HELD*
*— POLICE TEAMS ALSO TAKE PREVENTIVE ACTION AGAINST 178 INDIVIDUALS*
*— PEOPLE CAN ANONYMOUSLY REPORT GANGSTER-RELATED INFORMATION VIA ANTI-GANGSTER HELPLINE NUMBER 93946-93946*
*— 101 DRUG SMUGGLERS HELD WITH 1.7KG HEROIN ON DAY 594 OF YUDH NASHIAN VIRUDH*
CHANDIGARH, October 16:
As the decisive ‘Gangstran Te Vaar’ campaign enters its 269th day, Punjab Police today conducted 500 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 269, Police teams arrested 207 individuals held, taking the total arrests to 78,842 since the launch of the campaign.
Apart from this, preventive action has been taken against 178 persons. Police teams have also arrested two 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 594th day with 101 drug smugglers arrested today and recovered 1.7 kg heroin, 351 intoxicant pills and Rs 1.72 lakh drug money from their possession. With this, the number of total drug smugglers arrested has reached to 85,969 in just 594 days. As part of De-addiction, the Punjab Police has convinced 31 persons to undergo de-addiction and rehabilitation treatment today.
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*Punjab Vidhan Sabha Speaker Kultar Singh Sandhwan Pays Rich Tributes to Baba Banda Singh Bahadur Ji on His Birth Anniversary*
CHANDIGARH, 16 OCTOBER 2026 :
The Punjab Vidhan Sabha Speaker, Sardar Kultar Singh Sandhwan, today paid heartfelt tributes to the legendary Sikh warrior and commander, Baba Banda Singh Bahadur Ji, on the auspicious occasion of his birth anniversary.
Speaker Sandhwan urged citizens to embrace and follow the path of righteousness, justice, and selflessness shown by the iconic leader. He emphasized that Baba Banda Singh Bahadur Ji performed exemplary service for the Sikh community and humanity at large—sacrifices and contributions that occupy a golden chapter duly recorded in history.
"Baba Banda Singh Bahadur Ji was a magnificent warrior who dedicated his entire life to fighting tyranny, protecting human rights, and uplifting the downtrodden," said Sardar Sandhwan. He further highlighted Baba Banda Singh Bahadur Ji's historic role as the founder of the first sovereign Sikh rule in Punjab, notably recalling his revolutionary land reforms that abolished the oppressive zamindari system and gave proprietary rights to poor tillers and farmers.
The Speaker reiterated that the glorious legacy and courage of Baba Banda Singh Bahadur Ji will forever remain alive in the hearts of millions and continue to inspire generations to stand up firmly against injustice.
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