Contractors to Face Penalties for Project Delays, Special Courts for SC/ST Cases

Chandigarh, November 11: The Haryana government has announced a series of important decisions aimed at accelerating development projects, strengthening infrastructure and improving the delivery of public services across the state. Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini has directed officials to ensure timely completion of development works and take strict action against contractors responsible for unnecessary delays or poor-quality construction.

The government has also announced measures to expedite justice in SC/ST-related cases, extend the tenure of outsourced employees, streamline government tendering procedures, promote international educational opportunities, strengthen the dairy sector and expand employment opportunities.

Here are the major decisions and announcements made by the Haryana government.

1. Contractors Delaying Development Projects to Face Penalties; Repeat Offenders May Lose Future Government Work

Chief Minister reviews projects worth over Rs 75 crore, directs departments to ensure timely completion

Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini has made it clear that development projects in Haryana must be completed within their stipulated timelines without compromising on construction quality. Contractors responsible for unnecessary delays will face penalties as per the prescribed rules, while those repeatedly violating quality standards or failing to meet deadlines may be barred from receiving future government contracts.

The Chief Minister was chairing the 14th high-level review meeting of the State Pragati Portal (SPP) in Chandigarh on Wednesday. The meeting reviewed the progress of major infrastructure and energy projects involving investments of more than Rs 75 crore.

He directed all departments to work in close coordination and resolve administrative and technical bottlenecks on priority to prevent delays in project execution.

Gurugram Global City and Ayush University Projects Reviewed

The progress of the first phase of the Gurugram Global City project was reviewed during the meeting. Officials informed the Chief Minister that work was progressing and that tendering and other administrative formalities for proposed roads connecting the project with Pataudi Road and the Central Peripheral Road (CPR) had been completed.

The establishment of Shri Krishna Ayush University in Kurukshetra was also discussed. Officials said that the tendering process had been completed and an agreement had been signed with the contractor for the project being implemented through the Haryana State Industrial and Infrastructure Development Corporation (HSIIDC).

Sohna Industrial Projects Achieve 77% and 70% Progress

The EMC Sohna project has achieved 77 per cent completion, with road construction and other infrastructure facilities being developed.

Similarly, the IMT Sohna project has recorded 70 per cent progress. Construction of the Water Works Tower and major roads is approaching completion.

Once operational, these projects are expected to strengthen industrial activities and attract further investment to the region.

Power Distribution Infrastructure Under Review

Reviewing works being undertaken under the Revamped Distribution Sector Scheme (RDSS), officials informed the meeting that 93 per cent of the work aimed at reducing power distribution losses in the Sohna division had been completed.

In Karnal, 61 per cent of the work involving transformers and H-poles under the AP Connection and VGS schemes had been completed.

The Panchkula zone recorded 65.69 per cent progress under RDSS.

Meanwhile, work to upgrade the capacity of 46 existing 33/11 kV substations across different districts under DHBVNL had reached 65 per cent completion.

Projects in Kharkhoda and Hisar Also Reviewed

Infrastructure development at IMT Kharkhoda, including the master stormwater drainage system, is underway. Dewatering technology is being used to regulate groundwater levels during construction.

The Integrated Manufacturing Cluster (IMC) in Hisar has received environmental clearance, while the financial bids for its Engineering, Procurement and Construction (EPC) tender are under evaluation.

The proposed industrial cluster is expected to support sectors such as aviation, defence and other manufacturing industries.

The Chief Minister directed officials to regularly monitor all projects and ensure that construction quality is not compromised under any circumstances.

2. Haryana to Establish Special Courts for SC/ST Cases in Five Districts

Hisar, Faridabad, Palwal, Rohtak and Bhiwani identified; chargesheets to be filed within 60 days

The Haryana government has decided to strengthen the judicial mechanism for cases involving atrocities against Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes.

Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini has directed officials to establish special courts in Hisar, Faridabad, Palwal, Rohtak and Bhiwani to ensure faster hearings and timely justice in such cases.

The directions were issued during a meeting of the State-Level Vigilance and Monitoring Committee held in Chandigarh to review the implementation of the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, 1989, and the Protection of Civil Rights Act, 1955.

Social Justice and Empowerment Minister Krishan Kumar Bedi also attended the meeting.

The Chief Minister directed the concerned authorities to ensure that chargesheets in all SC/ST-related cases are filed before the courts within 60 days.

Nearly 28% Decline in Cases Reported

Director General of Police Ajay Singhal informed the meeting that cases related to SC/ST atrocities in Haryana had declined by approximately 28 per cent.

He said efforts were being made to improve investigations and ensure that chargesheets were filed within the prescribed timeframe.

Action has also been taken against 10 police personnel over alleged negligence in ensuring justice for victims.

Senior officers have been appointed as nodal officers at district and subdivision levels to monitor investigations and review the progress of cases regularly.

Police Stations Reporting More Cases to Face Special Monitoring

The Chief Minister directed officials to identify districts and police stations reporting a comparatively higher number of SC/ST-related cases.

Special drives should be conducted in these areas to identify the reasons behind such incidents and introduce corrective measures.

He also called for the speedy disposal of long-pending cases and increased police vigilance in sensitive areas.

The Chief Minister further suggested recognising and encouraging panchayats that had not reported any SC/ST-related cases during the previous two years. The Panchayat Department has been asked to prepare a list of such villages.

Rs 13.49 Crore Assistance Provided to 1,046 Victims

The meeting was informed that during the financial year 2026-27, financial assistance amounting to Rs 13.49 crore had been provided to 1,046 victims of atrocities for relief and rehabilitation.

Additionally, 418 beneficiaries received Rs 10.45 crore under the Chief Minister's Social Harmony Inter-Caste Marriage Shagun Scheme.

The government is also organising awareness programmes in schools and colleges through essay writing, debates, speech competitions and seminars to promote social harmony and awareness of legal rights.

3. Relief for Outsourced Employees in Haryana as Contractual Tenure Extended Until December 31

Employees working under Outsourcing Policy Part-II and HKRN receive a two-month extension

The Haryana government has extended the contractual tenure of employees working under Outsourcing Policy Part-II in various government departments, boards and corporations by another two months.

With this decision, their services will continue until December 31, 2026.

According to an official communication issued by Chief Secretary Anurag Rastogi, the contractual tenure of these employees had earlier been extended until October 31, 2026. Following a review, the government decided to grant a further extension.

The latest extension will be effective from November 1, 2026.

Employees appointed through the Haryana Kaushal Rozgar Nigam Limited (HKRNL) in various departments, boards and corporations will also benefit from the decision.

The government has clarified that the continuation of services will remain subject to the rules and conditions prescribed by HKRNL.

The Human Resources Department has issued the necessary instructions to all concerned departments.

4. Haryana Plans Separate Corporation to Speed Up Government Tendering Process

Chief Minister cites Singapore model; departments asked to utilise 90% of allocated budget by December-end

The Haryana government is exploring the possibility of establishing a separate corporation to streamline and accelerate the tendering process for major development projects.

Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini has asked officials to examine the Singapore model and develop an efficient mechanism through which major departmental tenders can be processed within stipulated timelines.

The directions were issued during a review meeting on the department-wise expenditure of the 2026-27 state budget at the Haryana Civil Secretariat on Wednesday.

The Chief Minister observed that delays in tendering often affect the timely execution of development projects. The proposed corporation is expected to improve the process, from preparing tender documents to awarding contracts to agencies.

Expert Consultants to Be Engaged

The Chief Minister also directed officials to explore the empanelment of specialised consultancy firms and the appointment of township consultants as part of the proposed arrangement.

A detailed action plan will be prepared under the chairmanship of the Chief Secretary in consultation with the concerned departments.

The proposed mechanism will involve expert agencies in preparing tender documents and facilitating the allocation of contracts.

Haryana's Budget Exceeds Rs 2.23 Lakh Crore

The Chief Minister said that the total budget estimate for Haryana for 2026-27 stands at Rs 2,23,658 crore, representing an increase of 9.1 per cent over the previous financial year's budget estimate.

He directed departments to ensure full utilisation of their allocated budgets during the current financial year. During the previous financial year, approximately 95 per cent of the total budget had been utilised.

Officials informed the meeting that 13 departments had already spent more than 50 per cent of their annual allocations.

The expenditure performance of major departments was as follows:

The Chief Minister said the next review of budget utilisation would be conducted at the end of December. He directed that every department should achieve at least 90 per cent budget expenditure by then.

Focus on Sports Infrastructure

The Chief Minister informed officials that the Centre had released Rs 100 crore under the AMRUT scheme.

He directed the departments to utilise the funds effectively and accelerate urban development projects.

Keeping the upcoming Commonwealth Games and Olympic Games in view, he also called for the development of two to three international-standard sports stadiums in Haryana.

The meeting further reviewed the construction progress of the Rai Sports University and the proposed stadium for persons with disabilities at Daulatabad in Gurugram.

5. Haryana Engineering Students to Get European Education Opportunity Through Romania University Partnership

J.C. Bose University explores 2+2 dual-degree programme with Technical University of Cluj-Napoca; first batch to have 15 students

Engineering students in Haryana may soon have an opportunity to pursue part of their higher education in Europe through a proposed international academic partnership.

J.C. Bose University of Science and Technology, YMCA, Faridabad, has taken an initiative to introduce a 2+2 dual-degree programme in collaboration with Romania's Technical University of Cluj-Napoca (TUCN).

Under the proposed arrangement, students pursuing Computer Engineering and Mechanical Engineering will complete their first two years of study in Faridabad and the remaining two years in Romania.

Upon successful completion of the programme, students will have the opportunity to receive degrees from both universities.

A two-member university delegation comprising Registrar Prof. Ajay Ranga and Prof. Sanjeev Goel held detailed discussions with officials of the Romanian institution during their European visit.

Scholarships and Student Exchange Opportunities

The proposed collaboration also covers student and faculty exchange programmes, scholarships, joint research initiatives and innovation-related activities.

The university aims to send the first batch of approximately 15 students in the forthcoming academic session.

The Romanian university has offered scholarships covering accommodation and meals for students participating in short-term exchange programmes.

Both institutions are also exploring financial assistance options to reduce tuition fees for selected students.

Vice-Chancellor Prof. Sanjay Kaushik described the initiative as an important step towards strengthening international academic cooperation.

He said the partnership would provide students with greater exposure to global education, research and innovation opportunities.

Before the formal agreement is signed, both universities will work towards aligning their credit structures and academic calendars.

The delegation's European visit also includes exploring academic collaboration opportunities with institutions in Germany and Hungary.

6. Vishnu Dutt, Grandson of Pandit Lakhmi Chand, Selected for Dhanpat Singh Sangi Lifetime Achievement Award 2026

Renowned folk artist to receive Rs 1 lakh and a citation for his contribution to Haryana's traditional folk theatre

Vishnu Dutt, a prominent artist associated with the preservation and promotion of Haryana's traditional folk theatre, Saang, has been selected for the prestigious Shri Dhanpat Singh Sangi Lifetime Achievement Award 2026.

He is the grandson of legendary Haryanvi folk artist Pandit Lakhmi Chand.

The award carries a cash prize of Rs 1 lakh along with a citation recognising his contribution to the state's cultural heritage.

Dr. Aditya Dahiya, Director of the Information, Public Relations and Languages Department, Haryana, said that Saang is an integral part of the state's cultural identity.

Apart from entertainment, this traditional folk theatre form reflects social awareness, moral values and the customs and traditions of rural life.

Selection Based on Five-Day State-Level Saang Festival

The State-Level Saang Festival for 2025-26 was organised from February 23 to 27, 2026, at the Haryana Kala Parishad in Kurukshetra.

Artists from different parts of Haryana participated in the five-day event, showcasing the richness of Haryanvi folk theatre through music, acting and traditional dialogue delivery.

As part of the award selection process, stage performances were evaluated for 60 marks, while the artists' documents and profiles carried 40 marks.

Following the combined assessment by the two committees, Vishnu Dutt was selected for the honour.

Dr. Dahiya said Pandit Lakhmi Chand had given Haryanvi folk literature a distinct identity through his compositions and Saang performances.

He added that honouring his grandson reflects the state's recognition of its rich cultural legacy.

Other artists who participated in the festival were also paid an honorarium of Rs 30,000 per performance.

7. Haryana Releases Rs 361 Crore for Cattle Fodder; 80 Bulk Milk Coolers Allocated

Around 51,000 beneficiaries receive Rs 133.11 crore under Chief Minister's Milk Producer Incentive Scheme

The Haryana government has released substantial financial assistance under various schemes to strengthen animal husbandry and the dairy sector.

Agriculture and Animal Husbandry Minister Shyam Singh Rana said that approximately Rs 361 crore had been distributed between October 2024 and November 2026 for providing fodder to gaushalas, nandishalas and rehabilitated cattle.

He said the government's objective was to improve the financial condition of livestock owners while strengthening the rural economy.

Dairy Infrastructure Gets a Boost

The minister informed that 80 bulk milk coolers had been allocated during 2024-26 at cooperative society level to improve milk preservation and chilling facilities.

An advanced sex-sorted semen laboratory has also been established in Hisar at an estimated cost of Rs 18.63 crore.

The facility is expected to support scientific breeding practices and improve livestock quality.

Rs 133.11 Crore Subsidy Transferred to Milk Producers

Under the Chief Minister's Milk Producer Incentive Scheme, a subsidy of Rs 133.11 crore was transferred directly into the bank accounts of approximately 51,000 beneficiaries between October 2024 and September 2026.

The government is also encouraging value-added dairy and nutritional products.

These include pistachio- and saffron-flavoured milk, barley and sorghum laddoos, pearl millet laddoos and mango lassi.

Shyam Singh Rana said the government was committed to making livestock owners financially stronger and creating additional income and employment opportunities in rural areas.

8. Haryana Invites Applications for POSE Scholarship 2026-27; Online Registration Begins November 12

Eligible science students can apply until January 12, 2027, under the Promotion of Science Education Scholarship Scheme

The Haryana government has invited online applications under the Promotion of Science Education (POSE) Scholarship Scheme 2026-27 to encourage meritorious students to pursue higher education in science-related disciplines.

According to the Haryana State Council for Science, Innovation and Technology, the application process will begin on November 12, 2026. Eligible students can submit their applications online until January 12, 2027.

The scheme aims to promote interest in basic and natural sciences and provide financial assistance to deserving students pursuing higher studies in these fields.

How to Apply for the POSE Scholarship?

Students can access information regarding eligibility criteria, application requirements and other guidelines through the official website of the Directorate of Science and Technology, Haryana.

Important application details:

• Application commencement: November 12, 2026

• Last date: January 12, 2027

• Official website: https://dst.highereduhry.ac.in

• Online application portal: https://harchhatravratti.highereduhry.ac.in

Students are required to register on the designated portal and complete the online application process as prescribed.

The government has advised eligible candidates to apply well before the deadline to avoid last-minute difficulties.

9. Haryana to Open 2,651 New Fair Price Shops; Application Deadline Extended to November 25

33% reservation for women; eligible applicants can apply online through the Antyodaya SARAL Portal

The Haryana government has decided to establish 2,651 new Fair Price Shops across the state to strengthen the Public Distribution System (PDS) and improve access to subsidised foodgrains for eligible families.

The last date for submitting applications for licences to operate these shops has been extended to November 25, 2026.

Earlier, the deadline was November 10, 2026.

According to the Food, Civil Supplies and Consumer Affairs Department, the new shops will particularly benefit residents of remote areas where existing ration depots are located at considerable distances.

33% Reservation for Women

The scheme provides 33 per cent reservation for women applicants.

The provision is expected to create additional self-employment opportunities for women by enabling them to operate Fair Price Shops.

The government believes that expanding the network of ration shops will improve the accessibility of the Public Distribution System in both rural and urban areas while generating new livelihood opportunities.

Where and How to Apply?

Interested and eligible applicants can submit their applications online through the Haryana Antyodaya SARAL Portal.

Key details:

• Total proposed Fair Price Shops: 2,651

• Reservation for women: 33%

• Application deadline: November 25, 2026

• Online application portal: https://saralharyana.gov.in

• Departmental website: https://haryanafood.gov.in

District-wise and village-wise details of vacant ration shops are available on the departmental website and the websites of the respective district administrations.

The department has encouraged eligible candidates, particularly women and unemployed youth, to submit their applications within the extended deadline.