“Saheli” Initiative launched in Hry to support pregnant women

Chandigarh: Haryana Government on Friday said that every pregnant woman having a girl child will be assigned a dedicated caregiver called a “Saheli.” The “Saheli” will be either an Anganwadi Worker (AWW) from the Women and Child Development (WCD) Department or an Accredited Social Health Activist (ASHA) from the National Health Mission (NHM). The “Saheli” will provide continuous support and care to the pregnant woman starting from the first or second trimester until the safe delivery of the child, said a spokesperson.

No school can force students to buy uniforms or books: Edu Minister

Chandigarh: Haryana Education Minister Mahipal Dhanda on Friday said that under Haryana School Education Rules 2003, no student or their parents shall be compelled to purchase textbooks, stationery, school uniforms, or related materials from a particular shop recommended by the school. The Education Department has issued instructions in this regard. The Minister further said that recognized schools are not allowed to change the design of their school uniform before five consecutive academic years. Moreover, no student shall be forced to purchase textbooks, notebooks, writing materials, shoes, socks, or uniforms from shops recommended by the school. Parents and students are free to purchase these items from any shop of their choice. To ensure compliance, a circular has been issued by the Directorate of Education to all District Education Officers and District Elementary Education Officers of the state.

Complete all preparations regarding flood control by June 30: Irrigation Minister

Chandigarh: Haryana Irrigation and Water Resources Minister Shruti Choudhry on Friday held a review meeting with the officials of the Irrigation Department regarding flood control measures and instructed the officials of all the districts to complete the preparations related to flood control by June 30. This meeting was held to review the progress of various projects and programs related to irrigation. In the meeting, the Minister also discussed with the officials the status of the existing projects,  the challenges and solutions. The monsoon weather forecast was also discussed in the meeting and it was decided to keep special vigil in the areas prone to floods.

Haryana boosts holistic healthcare with Rs 73.02 crore AYUSH plan for 2025-26

Chandigarh: The Governing Body Meeting of Haryana State AYUSH Society, chaired by Chief Secretary Anurag Rastogi on Friday approved a Rs 73.02 crore State Annual Action Plan for 2025–26 under the National AYUSH Mission (NAM). This marks a significant jump from last year’s ₹45 crore allocation, aiming to expand affordable and holistic healthcare by strengthening AYUSH services across the state. The Chief Secretary emphasized the importance of expanding mobile AYUSH units to deliver healthcare services directly to citizens’ doorsteps.

Himachal Governor flags off 5th Silk Route Ultra Trail Run 

Shimla: Himachal Pradesh Governor Shiv Pratap Shukla Friday flagged off the 5th Silk Route Ultra Trail Run and encouraged the youth to eliminate drug abuse from the society.  Shukla said that the fight against drugs requires united efforts from all sections of society. He expressed concern over the growing menace of drug addiction among youth. He urged everyone to come forward to eliminate this social evil and preserve the rich cultural heritage of the state. The 102-kilometre-long trail run covering the naturally scenic and culturally rich route from Narkanda to Sarahan, categorized into four segments organised by Himalayan Expedition has been dedicated to the Drug-Free Himachal Campaign. Over 250 runners from various states across India participated in this challenging competition, along with three international athletes from France and Germany. Shukla said that the Silk Route Ultra Trail Run is not just a sports event but a unique medium to connect with the culture, nature and traditions of Himachal Pradesh. It is a remarkable initiative to revive history and heritage while promoting adventure and eco-tourism in the region.