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January 20, 2026

Balbir Singh Sidhu Congress induction
Mohali, Tri-City Update

Balbir Singh Sidhu Inducts Over Two Dozen Families Into Congress Party

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New members join Congress in Sector-66, citing the anti-people policies of the Punjab government Mohali, January 20: The Congress Party received a significant boost on Tuesday as senior Congress leader and former Health Minister S. Balbir Singh Sidhu inducted over two dozen families into the party at a programme held in Sector-66. Addressing the gathering, Balbir Singh Sidhu said that people were increasingly joining the Congress to respond to what he described as the anti-people policies of the Punjab Government, which he said were adversely affecting the state. “Congress is the only party that raises its voice for every section of society. People are uniting today to give a fitting response to a government whose policies are harming Punjab,” Sidhu said, adding that the public support for the party would continue to grow stronger in the coming days. Those inducted into the Congress Party included Harjeet Abrawan, Mukesh Kumar, Avtar Kaur, Manjeet Singh, Kulwant Singh (retired Punjab State Electricity Board employee), Pinder Kaur, Suresh Chand Saxena, Raj Kumar Reddy, Himmat Kumar Reddy, Rajinder Meni (Superintendent, PSEB), Sukhdev Kaur, Manjeet Kaur, Sita Ji, Kuldeep Chand (retired DC Office Superintendent), and Maninder Kaur (PSPCL retiree), among others. Welcoming the new entrants, Sidhu said the inclusion of experienced and service-oriented individuals with strong social roots reflected the growing public trust in the Congress Party’s policies and its commitment to public welfare. “The joining of socially connected and experienced people strengthens the party and demonstrates faith in our ideology of service and struggle,” he said. Sidhu noted that the induction had further consolidated the party’s position in Sector-66 and adjoining areas, calling it a clear indication that people were now prepared for change. He assured all new members of full respect and honour, stating that responsibilities would be assigned based on their abilities and dedication to enable them to actively contribute to strengthening the party at the grassroots level. Those present at the event stated that the common people were distressed by inflation, unemployment, lack of basic amenities, and what they termed as anti-people governance. They said the work carried out by Balbir Singh Sidhu in the fields of healthcare, development, and public welfare continued to inspire them to unite under the Congress banner to fight for the rights of Punjab. Sidhu said the gathering had infused fresh energy into the Congress movement in the area and served as a strong message to political opponents ahead of the upcoming elections. Prominent leaders present on the occasion included Tajinder Singh Mavi, Master Charan Singh, MC Jasbir Singh Mankapur, former president Gurdeep Singh Dhillon, Dr Karamjit Singh Sidhu, Advocate Kanwarbir Singh Sidhu (Ruby), Maan Sahib, Bhupinder Singh, and employee leader Bhupinder Sharma.

Harchand Singh Barsat on Punjab rights
Chandigarh, Punjab

Stop Discrimination, Support Punjab: Harchand Singh Barsat Tells Centre

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AAP leader urges Centre to grant Punjab its rightful dues without delay Chandigarh, January 20, 2026: Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) Punjab State General Secretary and Punjab Mandi Board Chairman S. Harchand Singh Barsat on Tuesday strongly criticised the Central Government, alleging continued neglect and discrimination against Punjab, and demanded that the Centre immediately grant the state its rightful dues to accelerate development works. Referring to the recent meeting between Punjab Chief Minister S. Bhagwant Singh Mann and Union Home Minister Amit Shah, Barsat said that the Chief Minister effectively raised several critical issues concerning Punjab. “The discrimination being meted out to Punjab will no longer be tolerated. The Centre must immediately give Punjab what is rightfully due to it,” Barsat said. Describing the meeting as a significant step towards safeguarding Punjab’s interests, Barsat said the Central Government must now go beyond assurances and take concrete decisions. He stated that during the meeting, Chief Minister Mann highlighted key concerns including border security arrangements, the agrarian crisis, inter-state water disputes, problems faced by farmers due to the border security wall being constructed far away from the zero line, the Sutlej-Yamuna Link (SYL) canal dispute, slow lifting of food grains by the Food Corporation of India (FCI), non-payment of arthiya commission, Rural Development Fund, and market fees, as well as Punjab’s objections to the reduced role of the state in the Chandigarh Administration. Barsat further said that serious objections were also raised regarding the proposed Seed Bill 2025, which he stated could adversely impact farmers’ interests. He emphasised that Punjab has consistently played a crucial role in the country’s food security, national security, and economic growth, yet continues to face discriminatory treatment. “Now it is the responsibility of the Central Government to move beyond meetings and assurances and take fair and decisive steps to ensure Punjab receives its due,” he added. Barsat said the people of Punjab expect the Centre to stand with the state and resolve long-pending issues in the larger interest of development and federal fairness.

Blood Donation Camp in Sector 17B Chandigarh
Chandigarh

40 Units of Blood Collected at Donation Camp in Sector 17B Chandigarh

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Vishvas Foundation and Red Cross UT Chandigarh organise a camp amid winter blood shortage in hospitals Chandigarh, January 20, 2026: To address the shortage of blood in hospitals during the winter season, Vishvas Foundation Panchkula, in collaboration with the Indian Red Cross Society, UT Chandigarh, organised a blood donation camp in Market Sector 17B, Chandigarh, on Tuesday. The Blood Donation Camp in Sector 17B, Chandigarh, commenced at 10:00 AM and continued until 3:30 PM. A total of 60 individuals registered to donate blood, out of which 20 were declared medically unfit by doctors after health screening. The remaining 40 eligible donors successfully donated blood, contributing 40 units to the blood bank. The blood collection was carried out by a team from the Blood Bank, Government Medical College and Hospital (GMCH), Sector-16, Chandigarh, under the supervision of Dr Nitika Surya, who was appointed by Dr Simranjeet Kaur. Speaking on the occasion, Sadhvi Neelima Vishvas, President of Vishvas Foundation, said that certificates of appreciation were presented to all blood donors by Poonam Malik, Nodal Officer of the Red Cross Society, UT Chandigarh. She addressed common misconceptions regarding blood donation, stating, “There is a widespread belief that donating blood causes weakness, which is incorrect. Blood donation does not cause weakness, and the donated blood is replenished within a week.” She further explained that donating blood every 90 days not only helps those in need but also keeps the donor’s body healthy. “Blood donation is one of the greatest acts of service. Blood is the only substance that cannot be manufactured in a factory. By donating blood, one can save someone’s life,” she added, appealing especially to the youth to pledge to donate blood at least once in their lifetime. All participating donors were encouraged with certificates and gifts in recognition of their contribution. Several members of Vishvas Foundation, including Ramesh Suman, Varinder Kumar, Satya Bhushan Khurana, Madhu Khanna, and Janak Munjal, along with staff of the Red Cross Chandigarh and other dignitaries, were present at the camp.

Mohali Traffic Police Road Safety Campaign
Mohali, Punjab

Mohali Traffic Police Hold Road Safety Seminars in Kurali Schools

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Awareness programmes conducted under the National Road Safety Campaign 2026 Sahibzada Ajit Singh Nagar, January 20: As part of the National Road Safety Campaign 2026, the Mohali Traffic Police organised road safety awareness seminars at Khalsa Senior Secondary School, Kurali, and Brookfield International School, Kurali, aimed at educating students and staff about traffic rules and safe road behaviour. The programmes were conducted under the guidance of Senior Superintendent of Police, SAS Nagar, Harmandeep Singh Hans, IPS, and Superintendent of Police (Traffic), SAS Nagar, Navneet Singh Mahal, PPS, as part of the district-wide observance of the campaign being held from January 1 to January 31, 2026, in line with the Zero Death System theme. The seminars were led by DSP Karnail Singh, PPS, Deputy Superintendent of Police (Traffic), SAS Nagar, who interacted with students, teachers, and school staff at both institutions. At Khalsa Senior Secondary School, Principal Kamaljit Singh and Drawing Teacher Kuldeep Singh were present, while Vandana Bansal, Principal of Brookfield International School, along with Mukhtesh, Coordinator, and other staff members, attended the programme. Traffic officials ASI Jagat Singh, ASI Jaspal Singh, and Head Constable Ramesh Singh were also present. Addressing the gatherings, DSP Karnail Singh appealed to the students and the public to strictly avoid violating traffic rules, stating that such violations lead to loss of life and property. He also informed students about the harmful effects of drug abuse and encouraged them to participate in sports and physical activities for a healthy lifestyle. Highlighting legal provisions, he explained that under Section 199-A of the Motor Vehicles Act, if a minor below the age of 18 is found driving a vehicle, the parents or guardians may face up to three years’ imprisonment or a fine of up to ₹25,000, and similar punishment may apply to anyone who allows a minor to drive. He further stated that action under Section 185 of the Motor Vehicles Act would be taken against drunk driving, which carries a penalty of ₹10,000 and/or up to six months’ imprisonment. He also warned that modifying vehicle silencers could attract a fine of ₹5,000 under the Act. During the seminar, participants were also informed about the government’s Scheme for Grant of Award to the Good Samaritan. It was explained that in case of a roadside accident, citizens can immediately call the police helpline number 112, enabling Road Safety Force personnel to promptly shift injured persons to hospitals. Under the Farishtey Scheme, individuals who assist accident victims are eligible to receive an award of ₹2,000 from the government. Concluding the programme, DSP Karnail Singh urged students, teachers, and staff to share the knowledge gained during the seminar with their family members and to actively discourage drunk driving, overspeeding, and other traffic violations within their communities. He appealed to all citizens to consistently follow traffic rules and promote road safety awareness. At the end of the seminar, the school staff appreciated the initiative taken by the Traffic Police and expressed gratitude to DSP Karnail Singh for organising the informative awareness programme.

Mohali Traffic Police Road Safety Campaign
Mohali, Tri-City Update

Mohali Traffic Police Organise Road Safety Awareness Drive at IISER Chowk

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CGC Landran students join the police under the National Road Safety Campaign 2026 Mohali, January 20: As part of the National Road Safety Campaign 2026, themed “Zero Deaths”, the Mohali Traffic Police organised a road safety awareness seminar and public outreach programme at IISER Chowk on Tuesday. The awareness activity was led by Deputy Superintendent of Police (Traffic), SAS Nagar, Karnail Singh, in collaboration with students from CGC College, Landran. The initiative aimed to sensitise commuters and the general public about the importance of following traffic rules to prevent road accidents. During the programme, students actively engaged with motorists and pedestrians, spreading awareness through slogans and banners highlighting traffic safety norms. Traffic rule violators were counseled and symbolically presented with roses and chocolates to encourage compliance and promote responsible driving behavior. A road march was also carried out by the students to reinforce the message of road safety. Several dignitaries were present on the occasion, including Dr Gagandeep Bhullar, Director Student Welfare, Gurpreet Kaur, Assistant Professor, Nimrata Chopra, Assistant Professor, and Inspector Sanjeev Kumar, In-charge, Traffic Zone-3, Mohali. Addressing the gathering, DSP Karnail Singh appealed to the public to strictly adhere to traffic rules, stating that violations often result in loss of life and property. He also educated students about the harmful effects of drug abuse and encouraged them to participate actively in sports and physical activities as a means of leading a healthy and disciplined life. The Mohali Traffic Police Road Safety Campaign is part of a broader effort to reduce road accidents and promote a culture of safety and responsibility among citizens.

District Cricket Association, Mohali
Mohali, Tri-City Update

DCA Mohali to Hold Under-19 Boys Cricket Team Trials on January 27

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Eligible young cricketers invited to attend selection trials at DCA Mohali Ground Mohali, January 20, 2026: The District Cricket Association (DCA) Mohali has announced that it will conduct trials for the selection of the Under-19 Boys Cricket Team on January 27, 2026, offering aspiring young cricketers the opportunity to showcase their talent. According to the official announcement, the Under-19 Boys Cricket Team Trials Mohali will take place at the DCA Mohali Ground, located behind the PCA Stadium, with proceedings scheduled to begin at 10:00 AM. All eligible players have been invited to participate in the selection process. The association has stated that players must carry mandatory documents for verification and eligibility. These include the original birth certificate in digital format, Aadhaar card, and any other relevant supporting documents, if applicable. In addition, participants are required to bring one set of photocopies of all submitted documents. “Only players presenting complete, valid, and verifiable documentation will be permitted to take part in the trials,” the association said, emphasizing strict adherence to eligibility guidelines and punctuality. DCA Mohali further advised participants to remain in regular contact with association officials for any updates or additional clarifications related to the trials. The trials are part of the association’s ongoing efforts to identify and nurture young cricketing talent from the region, offering a platform for promising players to advance to competitive levels.