Chhath Ghat in Ambala, Investment Push, Flood Management Plan and Major Employee Welfare Measures
Ambala to Get a Permanent Chhath Puja Ghat; Anil Vij Inspects Construction Ahead of Festival
Chandigarh | November 12, 2026
Chhath devotees in Ambala Cantonment will soon have a dedicated permanent facility to celebrate the festival, with the Haryana government developing a one-acre pucca Chhath Ghat near the Tangri River bridge in Chandpura.
Haryana Energy, Transport and Labour Minister Anil Vij inspected the ongoing construction work ahead of the festival and reviewed arrangements to ensure that devotees do not face any inconvenience during the celebrations.
Vij said Chhath Puja holds immense religious and cultural significance, and a large number of people in Ambala and neighbouring areas observe the festival. Until now, devotees had to arrange temporary water-filled spaces in private plots to perform the rituals due to the absence of a permanent ghat.
The new facility is being developed to provide devotees with a proper place for worship. Vij clarified that while the main ghat is being constructed before the festival, additional facilities will be completed afterwards. These will include toilets, changing rooms, electricity and other essential amenities.
During the inspection, the minister directed officials to ensure adequate lighting, sufficient water supply and all necessary arrangements for the smooth conduct of Chhath Puja. He also instructed them to install a signboard identifying the site as the Chhath Ghat.
The project is being funded through a grant of Rs 50 lakh released by Vij from his discretionary fund.
Representatives of the Mithilanchal Navayuvak Seva Samiti welcomed the minister during his visit. Local councillor Jasbir Singh Jassi, Madan Lal Sharma, Sudarshan Singh Sehgal, Fakir Chand Saini, Ravi Jat and officials from various departments were also present.
Anil Vij Warns Officials: Delays in Public Grievances Could Invite Strict Action
Chandigarh | November 12, 2026
Haryana Energy, Transport and Labour Minister Anil Vij has issued a stern warning to government officials, directing them to resolve public grievances without unnecessary delays. He made it clear that officials found responsible for delaying public services could face disciplinary action.
The minister was hearing complaints from residents at the PWD Rest House in Ambala Cantonment when several issues came to his attention.
Taking serious note of a complaint against a patwari at the Ambala Cantonment Tehsil, Vij directed the SDM to investigate allegations that a mutation had remained pending for eight months, forcing the applicant to make repeated visits to government offices.
He instructed the SDM to examine the reasons behind the delay and initiate appropriate action. He also said that if the patwari was found guilty, suspension could be considered.
Vij further directed the Ambala Superintendent of Police to take strict action in cases related to human trafficking and illegal migration, commonly referred to as the kabootarbazi cases.
During the public hearing, the minister also distributed financial assistance cheques worth lakhs of rupees to committees managing different gaushalas.
He said the Haryana government had provided Rs 87.50 crore in financial assistance for the operation of 635 gaushalas across the state. As part of this initiative, Ram Bagh Gaushala Samiti in Ambala Cantonment received Rs 27.13 lakh, while Khatouli village Gaushala Samiti was given Rs 4 lakh.
Speaking to journalists, Vij also highlighted the recently inaugurated War Memorial in Ambala Cantonment, built in honour of the martyrs of India's First War of Independence. Union Home Minister Amit Shah inaugurated the memorial on November 5.
He said that, following the Chief Minister's directions, free ticket booking had been announced for one month. However, all available tickets for the entire month were booked within just a few hours.
Vij added that arrangements would be made for visitors from all sections of society, including special ticket provisions for schoolchildren. He expressed confidence that the memorial would attract visitors from across the world and contribute to Ambala's development.
Haryana Targets Conversion of 70% Investment MoUs into Projects; Rs 1.05 Lakh Crore Worth of Work Already Underway
Chandigarh | November 12, 2026
Haryana is stepping up efforts to turn investment commitments into actual industrial projects, with the state government setting an ambitious target of converting at least 70 per cent of signed Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) into projects on the ground.
Industries and Commerce Minister Rao Narbir Singh said attracting investment was only the first step, and the government's priority was to ensure that proposed projects translate into tangible economic activity and employment opportunities.
Chairing a meeting with senior officials of the Industries Department at the Chandigarh Secretariat, the minister reviewed the progress of investment proposals received under the state's new industrial policy.
He informed that following the Haryana Investor Roadshow and policy launch in June, investment MoUs worth Rs 2.37 lakh crore across 123 proposals had been signed. An additional Rs 9,600 crore worth of MoUs had also been secured.
Significantly, work has already commenced on investment proposals exceeding Rs 1.05 lakh crore, which the minister described as an encouraging development for the state.
He directed officials to maintain regular contact with investors and provide all necessary assistance to facilitate project implementation. He said sustained efforts to improve investor convenience would contribute to Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision of a developed India by 2047.
Land Availability and District-Level Support for Investors
Industries Department Commissioner and Secretary Dr Amit Agrawal said regular follow-ups were being conducted on MoUs signed under the new policy in Japan, Singapore, Mumbai, Karnal and Gurugram.
A dedicated team has been constituted to help investors secure land through HSIIDC industrial estates as well as private land options. Industrial plots in private industrial parks are also being explored.
To strengthen support at the grassroots level, four industry associates have been appointed in every district to guide investors and provide necessary information.
The department has also sought an additional budget of Rs 500 crore from the Finance Department.
MSME Sector to Get Additional Support
Dr Agrawal said the Plug and Play Policy under the MSME framework provides for a subsidy of Rs 5 lakh. The policy is intended to encourage investors to operate as buyers rather than sellers.
Proposals for the Haryana Multi-Modal Logistics Plan and Haryana EV-Cargo Logistics Scheme have also been prepared.
The minister instructed officials to expedite pending cases relating to subsidies available to MSMEs from the Central Government. He also called for resolving pending matters under the Firms and Societies Act and completing the process of necessary amendments so that these could be placed before the upcoming Assembly session.
250-Acre Urban Hidden Park Proposed in Manesar
In another major development, HSIIDC is planning to develop an Urban Hidden Park spread over approximately 250 acres in Manesar.
The proposed green space will be designed along the lines of Delhi's Lodhi Garden, Nehru Park and other internationally recognised parks.
Work on the first phase, covering 83 acres, will begin initially. An agency has been asked to prepare the Request for Proposal (RFP).
The park is expected to serve as a major green lung for Gurugram, providing additional green space amid the city's expanding urban and industrial landscape.
Gurugram Flooding: Haryana Sets December 31 Deadline for Comprehensive Action Plan
Chandigarh | November 12, 2026
Recurring waterlogging and urban flooding in Gurugram have prompted the Haryana government to launch a comprehensive review of the city's drainage infrastructure, with the district administration directed to prepare a detailed flood management action plan by December 31, 2026.
The government has instructed officials to move beyond temporary measures and identify the underlying reasons behind repeated flooding, including blocked drains, inadequate stormwater drainage systems and shortcomings in infrastructure planning.
Dr Sumita Misra, Financial Commissioner of the Revenue Department and Additional Chief Secretary of the Revenue and Disaster Management Department, said the Gurugram Deputy Commissioner had been asked to personally monitor the implementation of flood prevention measures.
She emphasised the need for better coordination among municipal bodies, development authorities, engineering departments and the police.
The directions follow a high-level meeting convened by the Union Home Ministry to discuss ways to address Gurugram's recurring urban flooding problem.
Identification of Flood-Prone Areas a Priority
The district administration has been directed to identify vulnerable locations and investigate the specific reasons for water accumulation.
Officials will have to prepare a comprehensive strategy addressing the root causes of flooding rather than limiting their efforts to removing water from submerged roads.
The proposed city action plan will include clearly defined targets, milestones and time-bound implementation measures.
Hyderabad Model May Offer Solutions
The Haryana government has also asked officials to examine whether Hyderabad's flood management model can be adapted for Gurugram.
The proposed study will explore the feasibility of establishing a central control room and interconnecting lakes and other water bodies to improve urban water management.
The district administration will assess whether such measures can be effectively implemented according to Gurugram's local requirements.
Disaster Mitigation Funds and Technical Assistance
The administration has been asked to explore the use of the State Disaster Mitigation Fund for flood prevention projects and submit proposals to the state government for approval under the prescribed guidelines.
The government has also sought technical assistance from the National Disaster Management Authority to identify the causes of urban flooding and recommend practical solutions.
Special SOPs to Reduce Traffic Disruption
Recognising the impact of heavy rainfall on road traffic, the government has directed officials to prepare Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) to minimise flooding-related disruptions and traffic congestion.
The Director General of Police has been asked to ensure that the concerned authorities prepare and implement the necessary procedures.
The Gurugram Deputy Commissioner will coordinate with the Municipal Corporation of Gurugram, Gurugram Metropolitan Development Authority, Haryana Urban Development Authority, Public Health Engineering Department, Irrigation and Water Resources Department and other agencies.
The Divisional Commissioner of Gurugram and the Chief Executive Officer of GMDA have also been asked to ensure effective coordination among departments.
GIS Mapping and Emergency Preparedness
The government has further directed officials to undertake Geographic Information System (GIS)-based mapping of critical infrastructure and emergency resources to ensure their quick identification during disasters.
Dr Misra said authorities should promote the SACHET application to ensure timely dissemination of disaster alerts.
She also called for strengthening civil defence infrastructure through adequate manpower, equipment and training. Trained volunteers, including Aapda Mitras and Yuva Aapda Mitras, will also be incorporated into emergency preparedness efforts.
The government's seven-pronged approach focuses on identifying the root causes of flooding, improving water-body management, securing disaster mitigation funding, strengthening technical planning and enhancing emergency response capabilities.
Haryana CM Highlights Farmer Welfare at National Agriculture Conference; Focus on MSP, Irrigation and Natural Farming
New Delhi/Chandigarh | November 12, 2026
Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini has reiterated his government's commitment to improving farmers' incomes, reducing agricultural costs and encouraging crop diversification, describing farmers as a vital pillar of the country's food security.
Addressing an agriculture conference at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi, Saini said Haryana's agricultural traditions were deeply connected with its culture and identity.
He said the state's farmers had made significant contributions to strengthening India's food reserves through their hard work and dedication.
The Chief Minister said the government was working on several fronts, including fair prices for crops, improved irrigation facilities, water conservation, natural farming, soil health and agricultural diversification.
He encouraged farmers to move beyond traditional cultivation and adopt modern technology, alternative crops and agriculture-based industries to improve their earnings.
Highlighting the Centre's PM-KISAN scheme, Saini said eligible small and marginal farmers receive financial assistance of Rs 6,000 annually, helping them meet essential agricultural expenses such as seeds, fertilisers and pesticides.
He added that both the Central and Haryana governments were working to reduce the financial burden on farmers and ensure better returns for their produce.
Irrigation Infrastructure and Water Conservation
The Chief Minister said irrigation infrastructure was being strengthened through the construction and revival of water bodies.
Under the Amrit Sarovar initiative, work is underway on approximately 2,000 ponds across Haryana. The objective is to conserve rainwater, improve groundwater levels and increase water availability.
The government is also focusing on repairing, rehabilitating and strengthening canals and drains to prevent water wastage.
Saini said plans were being developed to create irrigation clusters covering 100, 200 and 500 acres. Large water storage structures would be built in these clusters to store approximately one month's water requirement.
Solar-powered pumps would then supply water to agricultural fields through sprinkler irrigation systems, helping farmers irrigate larger areas with less water.
Three Major Dam Projects to Strengthen Water Availability
Saini said agreements involving five states had been reached for the Renukaji, Kishau and Lakhwar dam projects under the leadership of Union Home Minister Amit Shah.
These projects are expected to improve future water availability for Haryana, Delhi, Rajasthan and Uttar Pradesh.
He said better management of natural water resources was essential to ensure water security for future generations.
MSP Guarantee for All Crops
The Chief Minister reiterated that Haryana was the first state to guarantee procurement of all crops at the Minimum Support Price (MSP) announced by the government.
He said the policy was aimed at encouraging crop diversification and reducing dependence on water-intensive crops such as paddy.
The state is also promoting natural farming. Under an initiative in the Morni block, arrangements have been made to procure produce directly from farmers practising natural farming without chemical fertilisers and pesticides.
Saini said more than 40 lakh farmers had registered approximately 1.5 lakh hectares of land for natural farming on the relevant portal, while natural farming was currently being practised on around 45,000 hectares.
The government is also working on leasing cultivable panchayat land and Agriculture Department land to farmers for natural farming for a period of 10 years.
HAFED has been assigned responsibility for purchasing naturally cultivated grain in mandis. The produce will undergo laboratory testing before procurement.
The Bhavantar Bharpai Yojana is also being implemented to protect horticulture farmers against market price fluctuations and financial losses.
Soil Testing to Improve Agricultural Productivity
The Chief Minister said maintaining soil fertility and reducing excessive use of chemical fertilisers and pesticides were important priorities.
Soil testing facilities at district and block levels are helping farmers understand the nutritional requirements of their land and determine the appropriate quantity of fertilisers and pesticides.
He said soil testing had been undertaken for approximately 40 to 45 lakh farmers' land holdings.
The government has also announced the development of a dedicated 2,000-acre natural farming cluster in Kurukshetra.
Sant Namdev's Teachings Continue to Inspire Equality, Humanity and Dignity of Labour: Aarti Singh Rao
Chandigarh | November 12, 2026
Haryana Health Minister Aarti Singh Rao has called upon people to follow the teachings of Sant Shiromani Namdev Ji Maharaj, saying his message of humanity, equality, brotherhood and respect for hard work remains relevant in today's society.
Speaking on the occasion of Sant Namdev Ji Maharaj's birth anniversary, she said saints and spiritual leaders belong to the entire society and their teachings provide guidance beyond caste and community boundaries.
She emphasised that adopting their values in everyday life was essential for building a harmonious society and a strong nation.
The minister also reaffirmed the Haryana government's commitment to expanding educational, employment and reservation opportunities for the Other Backward Classes (OBC) community.
Recalling the contributions of Sant Namdev Ji, she said his life and teachings highlighted devotion, service to humanity and respect for every hardworking individual. His sacred compositions are also included in the Guru Granth Sahib.
Rao said that under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership, India was progressing towards the vision of Viksit Bharat-2047, while the Haryana government was working for inclusive development and good governance.
Highlighting initiatives for backward communities, she referred to the constitutional status granted to the National Commission for Backward Classes and reservation provisions for OBCs in Kendriya Vidyalayas, Navodaya Vidyalayas, Sainik Schools and medical education.
She said Haryana had increased the income limit for the creamy layer in the Backward Classes category from Rs 6 lakh to Rs 8 lakh.
The government had also provided representation to the BC-A category in local bodies and introduced a provision for 27 per cent reservation in government jobs.
The minister further highlighted initiatives aimed at providing employment opportunities to Agniveers and promoting women's economic empowerment.
She said welfare provisions in the state budget and the scheme offering LPG cylinders to eligible families at Rs 500 were intended to provide financial relief to ordinary households.
Haryana CM Nayab Singh Saini Pays Tribute to Shivraj Singh Chouhan's Mother in Bhopal
Bhopal/Chandigarh | November 12, 2026
Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini visited Bhopal on Thursday to offer his condolences to Union Agriculture and Farmers Welfare Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan following the demise of his mother, Kashi Bai Ji.
During his visit to Chouhan's residence, Saini paid floral tributes to the portrait of the late Kashi Bai Ji and expressed his heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family.
The Chief Minister also met family members and offered words of comfort during their difficult time.
He prayed for peace for the departed soul and strength for the family to bear the irreparable loss.
Haryana Announces Major Employee Welfare Benefits: Sanitation Workers' Salary Raised to Rs 18,100, Insurance Cover Enhanced to Rs 50 Lakh
Chandigarh | November 12, 2026
The Haryana government has announced a series of employee welfare measures aimed at improving financial security, workplace protection and social benefits for government employees and sanitation workers across the state.
A government spokesperson said the initiatives were part of the vision of 'Non-Stop Haryana – Empowered Employees, Strong State', with a focus on protecting employees' interests and improving their quality of life.
Rural Sanitation Workers to Receive Higher Salaries
One of the significant measures involves an increase in the monthly wages of rural sanitation workers.
Their salaries have been raised in two stages, first from Rs 15,000 to Rs 16,000 and subsequently to Rs 18,100.
The move is expected to provide additional financial support to workers engaged in maintaining cleanliness and sanitation in rural areas.
Insurance Protection Increased to Rs 50 Lakh
The government has also substantially enhanced insurance benefits for employees.
The partial disability insurance cover has been increased tenfold, from Rs 5 lakh to Rs 50 lakh.
For permanent employees, personal accident insurance has been raised from Rs 30 lakh to Rs 50 lakh.
Their permanent term insurance cover has also been doubled from Rs 2 lakh to Rs 4 lakh.
In another significant decision, the maximum limit of death-cum-retirement gratuity has been increased from Rs 20 lakh to Rs 25 lakh.
Financial Assistance to Families of Deceased Employees
To provide greater financial protection to employees' families, the government has introduced a new ex-gratia scheme.
Under the scheme, if a government employee dies before attaining the age of 52, a dependent will be eligible for compassionate appointment.
Additionally, families of employees working on ad hoc, contractual and DC-rate arrangements will receive financial assistance of Rs 3 lakh in the event of the employee's death during service.
Additional Benefits for Women Employees
The government has also announced measures to strengthen the welfare of women employees.
Women working under the outsourcing policy will receive maternity leave benefits equivalent to those available to regular women employees.
Furthermore, women employees with disabilities will be eligible for a special child-care allowance of Rs 1,500 per month for each child.
The government said these measures reflect its commitment to employee welfare, social security and financial protection for workers and their families.