normalnormalnormalHaryana Chief Minister, Nayab Singh Saini said that the term “Nihang” symbolises a fearless and resolute warrior. He said that the Sikh Gurus themselves bestowed upon the Nihang Singhs the distinctive identity of the armed Akal Sena. The Nihangs sect within the Khalsa Panth was established with the sacred objective of protecting religion and the nation, particularly against external aggressors who sought to undermine India’s civilisation, culture and values.The Chief Minister was addressing a ‘Sammelan’ of Nihangs held at Sant Kabir Kutir, in Chandigarh on Saturday. On this occasion, a delegation of Nihangs honoured him with a ‘saropa’ and a commemorative memento.Recalling history, Nayab Singh Saini said that the contribution of the Nihang Singhs in resisting the repeated invasions of Afghan ruler Ahmad Shah Abdali during the 18th century was both courageous and historic. He added that the strength and stability of Maharaja Ranjit Singh’s Sarkar-e-Khalsa owed much to the unmatched valour of Nihang warriors. A specialised Nihang contingent formed an integral part of the Khalsa army and was renowned for its skill and bravery in confronting Mughal forces.The Chief Minister said that in the battlefields of Bhangani and Chamkaur, the Nihang Singhs stood as an impenetrable shield for the Sikh Gurus. In later years, legendary Nihang warriors such as Baba Banda Singh Bahadur and Baba Deep Singh Ji decisively defeated the Mughal forces and strengthened the foundations of the Khalsa Panth. He said the Nihang Singhs occupy a position of immense pride within the Sikh community and remain the backbone of the Khalsa, dedicating their lives to the teachings and ideals of the Gurus.Nayab Singh Saini said the Haryana Government is making sustained efforts to disseminate the teachings of the Sikh Gurus among the masses. In November, extensive programmes were organised across the state to commemorate the 350th martyrdom year of Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji. A grand state-level ‘Samagam’ was held at Jyotisar, Kurukshetra, on November 25, 2025, having Prime Minister, Sh. Narendra Modi as the Chief Guest. On this occasion, he released commemorative coins, postage stamps and a coffee-table book dedicated to Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji. Lakhs of devotees paid their respects on the occasion.He further said that four ‘Sobha Yatra’ were organised from Rori, Pinjore, Faridabad and Sadhaura to spread the message of Guru Ji. Passing through different regions of the state, the ‘Sobha Yatras’ culminated at Kurukshetra on November 24. A ‘Hind Ki Chadar’ marathon was organised in Karnal, drawing participation from more than 80,000 people. A tribute ceremony was also held at the martyrdom site of Dada Kushal Singh Dahiya in village Badh Khalsa, Sonipat.The Chief Minister said that a forest will be developed in the name of Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji at Kalesar in Yamunanagar, along with the construction of a memorial gate in his honour. He said that an announcement has also been made for the establishment of Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Agriculture College at Kishanpura, Yamunanagar. Provision has also been made to provide government employment to one member from each of the 121 Sikh families affected by the 1984 riots. Appointment letters were distributed to these families by Union Home Minister, Sh. Amit Shah on the occasion of Veer Bal Diwas in Panchkula.He added that during the winter session of the Haryana Vidhan Sabha, a unanimous resolution was passed in connection with the events commemorating the 350th martyrdom year of Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji. Likewise, the research chair established at Chaudhary Devi Lal University, Sirsa, in Guru Ji’s name will pave the way for new academic research traditions.Nayab Singh Saini said that the Government Polytechnic College, Ambala, has been renamed after Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji; the Tohana–Jind–Dhamtan Sahib road has been designated as Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Marg; and the medical college at Yamunanagar has also been named after ‘Hind Ki Chadar’ Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji. Assandh College has been renamed after Baba Fateh Singh Ji, while a VLDA College has been established at Lakhnaur Sahib in the name of Mata Gujri Kaur.The Chief Minister said that Haryana was once described as the “younger brother” of Punjab. Under strong leadership, visionary policies and with the support of the Central Government, Haryana has firmly established itself among the leading states of the country. He said the state has carved a distinct identity in every sector, including investment, development, per capita income, human development, farmer welfare, women empowerment, youth participation and sports.Nayab Singh Saini said the Nihang Singh order has set a living example of courage, sacrifice and steadfastness, safeguarding religion, justice and human values without regard for personal safety.The delegation included, Jathedar Baba Jaswant Singh, Baba Davinder Singh, Gurpreet Singh, Mata Jasbir Kaur, Baba Balak Singh, Baba Balbir Singh, Baba Sukhdev Singh, Baba Major Singh, Baba Kulwinder Singh, Baba Jodha Singh and Baba Sukhjit Singh Kanhaiya. Besides this, Chief OSD to Chief Minister, Sh. B.B. Bharti, Political Secretary to Chief Minister, Sh. Tarun Bhandari and other distinguished dignitaries were present on the occasion.*Rs. 126-crore revival of Bhalaut Sub-Branch canal to boost irrigation in Sonipat, Rohtak- Dr Arvind Sharma*Haryana Cooperation Minister, Dr Arvind Sharma said that a major boost is set to be given in the New Year to the Bhalaut Sub-Branch canal, which has been meeting the irrigation and water needs of thousands of acres of farmland and lakhs of people in Sonipat and Rohtak districts for the past 53 years. Under a Rs. 600 crore NABARD project, the canal will undergo comprehensive renovation at a cost of Rs. 126 crores. Stretching nearly 25 kilometres from Khubdu Head to Moi Head, the canal had suffered severe deterioration due to the absence of renovation for decades, adversely affecting its water-carrying capacity. Under the project, fresh lining of the canal will be carried out along with reconstruction of bridges, ghats and outlets.Dr. Arvind Sharma shared this information while interacting with mediapersons at Gohana on Saturday. Senior officers and local dignitaries were also present. He said that two tenders worth Rs. 69.89 crore for canal lining over the 25-kilometre stretch have already been awarded and work will commence shortly. Upon completion, the canal’s capacity will increase from 2,100 cusecs to 2,700 cusecs, an enhancement of nearly 33 percent.Dr. Arvind Sharma further said, in addition, damaged bridges on the canal will be widened and rebuilt at a cost of Rs. 56 crore. New ghats will be constructed at road crossings and all gates will be replaced after completion of the lining work. The project will directly benefit 28 villages of the Gohana and Baroda Assembly segments. Furthermore, Gohana town will also receive adequate water for irrigation, drinking purposes and village ponds.The Minister said that the BJP government has already accorded Gohana the status of police district. While the criteria for district status require two sub-divisions, a proposal to include Gohana, Baroda and Kharkhoda could not materialise due to Kharkhoda’s unwillingness. However, population and village-related norms have been met. He asserted that he is making sincere efforts to get Gohana declared a district and has strongly raised the issue before Chief Minister, Nayab Singh Saini.Dr Arvind Sharma inaugurated three link roads constructed by the Haryana Marketing Board in the Gohana Assembly constituency at a cost of Rs. 2.13 crore—Nyat to Khanpur Kalan, Bhatgaon to Khedi Dahiya, and Lath to Rabhra. He also laid the foundation stone for an Atal Kisan Shramik Canteen to be built at the new vegetable market at a cost of Rs. 37 lakh for farmers and labourers.*Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini visits Western Command at Chandimandir Military Station* *Chief Minister appreciated the efforts of Western Command during Operation Sindoor and humanitarian assistance*Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini, visited Western Command at Chandimandir Military Station. He was received and briefed by Lt Gen Manoj Kumar Katiyar, Army Commander, Western Command.The visit commenced with a tour of the Western Command Museum, where the Chief Minister was apprised of the Command’s rich history, major campaigns, gallantry and evolving military traditions, offering a comprehensive insight into its operational legacy.During a detailed briefing and interaction with senior military leadership, the Chief Minister was informed about Western Command’s key achievements, including successes under Operation Sindoor and humanitarian assistance rendered during Floods. Ongoing recruitment rallies, youth outreach initiatives, logistics support systems, modernisation efforts and induction of new technologies were also highlighted.Veteran welfare initiatives, including the Senior Veterans’ Home, were covered as part of the briefing, underscoring the Indian Army’s people-centric approach and its enduring commitment to the care, dignity and well-being of veterans and their families.Chief Minister appreciated the efforts of Western Command during Operation Sindoor and humanitarian assistance. He assured full support of the Haryana Government in addressing various issues related to the ex-servicemen.The visit concluded with a brief one-to-one interaction between the Chief Minister and the Army Commander, reaffirming strong civil–military synergy and a shared commitment towards national security, youth empowerment and veterans’ welfare.*Haryana Government has placed youth at the core of its policies, implemented numerous youth-centric schemes: Chief Minister* *Chief Minister addresses Prernadaayi Samvad Karyakram (Inspiring Interaction Programme) with Haryana delegation for 29th National Youth Festival–2026* *Sh Nayab Singh Saini flags off 64-member Haryana Youth Contingent* *The future of a Nation is shaped by the strength of its Youth* *Haryana’s youth playing a leading role across all sectors, including Defence, Sports, Education, Agriculture and Entrepreneurship: Sh Nayab Singh Saini*Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini said that the government has consistently placed youth at the core of its policies and implemented numerous youth-centric schemes. He added that over the past decade, the Central and State governments have accomplished what previous governments could not achieve even in several decades.The Chief Minister was addressing the Prernadaayi Samvad Karyakram (inspiring interaction programme) held with the Haryana state delegation participating in the 29th National Youth Festival-2026, in Panchkula as the chief guest. Minister of State for Youth Empowerment and Entrepreneurship, Gaurav Gautam, was also present on the occasion.Earlier, the Chief Minister boosted the morale of the 64 young participants of the National Youth Festival–2026, interacted with them, posed for a group photograph, and flagged off the delegation. The delegation will represent Haryana at the National Youth Festival–2026 to be held at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi, from January 9 to January 12, where they will participate in various competitions, including group dance, debate, painting, Young Leaders’ Dialogue, Hack for Social Cause, and Design for Viksit Bharat.After flagging off the delegation, the Chief Minister interacted with the youth and said that the flag is not merely a piece of cloth, but a symbol of the values inherited from our ancestors, our brave culture, and the indomitable courage of the youth. He added that it carries the trust that the entire state has placed in them. He further said that National Youth Day is celebrated on the birth anniversary of Saint Swami Vivekananda, who was youthful not only in age but also in his thinking, mindset, ideas, and actions.He said that the future of any nation is shaped by the strength of its youth. When young people are energetic, educated, self-confident, and devoted to the nation, no goal remains unattainable. The youth of Haryana have always been hardworking, disciplined, and patriotic, which is why they are playing a leading role today in every field, including the armed forces, sports, education, agriculture, and entrepreneurship. Likewise, Haryana’s rich folk culture-its dances, music, art, and traditions reflect simplicity, strength, and warmth. When these are showcased at the National Youth Festival, the entire country will witness the true soul of Haryana.The Chief Minister said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi has emphasized that youth empowerment is the key to building a strong India, and that the nation’s youth must play a pivotal role if India is to emerge as a global leader. He added that it is the result of the Prime Minister’s efforts that India has today become the world’s fourth-largest economy. The Prime Minister’s vision is to make India a developed nation and the world’s largest economy by 2047.Referring to Haryana, Nayab Singh Saini said that the present State Government has consistently worked to recognize and nurture the talent of the youth and has formulated a comprehensive youth policy. He recalled that during the Assembly elections, he had promised that immediately upon assuming office, the light of government employment would reach the homes of 24,000 young people. He said this promise was treated as a sacred commitment, and accordingly, on October 17, 2024, along with the formation of the Cabinet, appointment letters for Group C posts were handed over to 24,000 youth.He said that the government has not confined its efforts to providing only government jobs, but has also taken care of youth employed through the Haryana Kaushal Razgor Nigam. Their future has been secured through the enactment of a law. As a result, these young employees will now receive benefits such as dearness allowance and annual increments, similar to regular employees, enabling them to lead their lives with dignity and self-respect.The Chief Minister expressed concern over incidents of young people going abroad through illegal means, commonly referred to as the “donkey route.” He said that to put an end to such fraud and the activities of illegal agents, the State Government passed a historic Bill in the Legislative Assembly on March 26, 2025, which has now been enacted into law. This will ensure transparency in the functioning of travel agents and hold those involved in fraudulent practices accountable. He emphasized that the government wants the youth to go abroad, but with dignity, safety, and security. In this direction, 1.14 lakh young people have also been provided with skill training to help them establish themselves in global markets.Earlier, Minister of State for Youth Empowerment and Entrepreneurship, Gaurav Gautam, said that a total of 64 participants from Haryana, representing various fields and districts, will showcase their talent and skills at the national level. He expressed confidence that the youth of Haryana will create a distinct identity for the state across the country. He added that today’s youth are not only custodians of rich traditions but also pioneers of innovation. Through startups, they are generating employment, and in the field of sports, they are hoisting the tricolour at the international level.On this occasion, Kalka MLA Shakti Rani Sharma, former Speaker of the Legislative Assembly Gian Chand Gupta, State Vice President Banto Kataria, District President Ajay Mittal, Principal Secretary of the Department of Youth Empowerment and Entrepreneurship Rajiv Ranjan, Director Vivek Agarwal, Deputy Commissioner Satpal Sharma, Media Secretary to Chief Minister Sh Praveen Atrey along with participants and a large number of young people, were present.*Linking skill training with employment is the government’s top priority- Gaurav Gautam* *Officers to be assigned district-wise responsibility to assess the condition of ITI buildings at the ground level and submit reports* *New buildings to be constructed in place of dilapidated ITIs buildings*Haryana Minister of State for Youth Empowerment and Entrepreneurship, Gaurav Gautam, said that the core objective of the Skill Development and Industrial Training Department is not limited to providing training alone, but to ensure that trained youth secure dignified employment. He emphasized that ensuring job opportunities for youth after completing training from ITIs and other institutions is a collective responsibility of the government and the department, and this responsibility is being carried out in a systematic manner.The Minister was chairing a review meeting at Panchkula, with the Vice Chancellors and Registrars of Universities and officers associated with Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs).Gaurav Gautam directed that officers posted at the headquarters be assigned responsibility for individual districts. These officers will visit ITIs at the ground level to assess the structural fitness of buildings and prepare reports on dilapidated structures, enabling the construction of new buildings where required. He said that the Haryana Skill Development and Industrial Training Departmentis also providing overseas placement opportunities to youth, and efforts in this direction should be further intensified so that the state’s youth can showcase their talent at the international level. He directed that overseas placement schemes be widely publicized to ensure maximum participation by youth.The Minister also directed that regular reviews be conducted of actual placement data received from companies participating in Rozgar Melas across the state. He directed the officers to complete academic, administrative, and infrastructure-related works on priority to ensure the timely and effective implementation of the Haryana Skill Department’s mission.The Minister further directed that all key schemes, including the Saksham Yuva Yojana, flagship schemes, and the Guru–Shishya Scheme, be completed within stipulated timelines. Praising the Dual Training System, the Minister said that it provides youth with both training and practical experience, which significantly enhances their employability.Principal Secretary, Youth Empowerment and Entrepreneurship Department, Rajeev Ranjan, CEO, Haryana Kaushal Rozgar Nigam Ltd, Amit Khatri, Director General, Director General, Skill Development & Industrial Training Department, Dr. Vivek Aggarwal, Vice Chancellor, Shri. Vishwakarma Skill University, Palwal, Dinesh Kumar, along with other senior officers.normalnormalThe post Nihang Singhs have always upheld the defence of faith, nation and humanity- CM appeared first on Chandigarh City News.