Chief Minister Khattar's Lohri Gift: A Day of Governance and Community Engagement

With regard to denial of invitation to Ayodhya for the 'Pran Pratishtha' ceremony at the Ram Mandir by Congress leaders, Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar emphasised that attendance at the event is a matter of personal faith, emphasising the voluntary nature of participation. Responding to the Congress's decision to skip the ceremony, Khattar stated, "Those who wish to attend are free to do so. If they lack faith, they will remain disconnected from society." The Chief Minister was in Karnal to chair 'Jan Samvad' programs in two wards, where he interacted with the public and addressed their grievances.

As part of his governance initiatives, Chief Minister Khattar announced a special Lohri gift for students in Zarifabad village – a government bus service commencing from January 16. This move aligns with his commitment to addressing the needs of the community, evident in his surprise visit to Karnal Railway Station where he witnessed people in distress due to the cold. Responding promptly, he ordered their transfer to a night shelter using his security vehicles.

During the 'Jan Samvad' programs, the Chief Minister highlighted ongoing development projects in Karnal city, totalling over Rs 2,000 crore. Additionally, he revealed plans for one lakh more development works and proposed the renaming of Mughal Canal to Karna Canal. Addressing concerns about the pace of development, Khattar announced the government's initiative to train 15,000 young civil engineers to meet the demand for skilled workers.

Looking ahead, the Chief Minister disclosed plans to provide 60,000 jobs to the youth in the state within the next six months. He emphasised the government's role in facilitating overseas employment opportunities for young individuals, with 15,000 youths currently undergoing training in Rohtak for jobs abroad. Khattar also distributed pension approval certificates and addressed grievances received through the Jan Samvad portal, noting that out of 60,000 complaints, 10,000 had already been resolved.

Concluding the day, Chief Minister Khattar ordered the construction of a foot overbridge near Uchani and a community centre and school building in Baldi village before the next academic session. The day concluded with the Chief Minister celebrating Lohri with residents in Sector 13, further strengthening his ties with the local community.