Haryana’s Energy, Transport, and Labour Minister Sh. Anil Vij today said that “In a democracy, power lies in the hands of the people. Some individuals still carry the colonial mindset and try to convince others that all power is in their hands. However, no officer, IAS, IPS, or politician holds ultimate power—power rests with the people, as they are the ones who elect and remove us.”
He further stated that “People have toppled many authoritarian governments, and on this day, we must pledge to uphold the purity of our democracy.” Anil Vij made this appeal while addressing the district-level Republic Day celebrations as the chief guest in Ambala Cantt. The event was held grandly at S.D. College, where he unfurled the national flag, took the salute at the parade, and delivered a message to the people of the district.
Before this, the Energy Minister paid floral tributes to the statue of Swami Vivekananda and the Martyrs' Memorial in the college premises.
Democracy is the Source of Power in This Country, and It is the People Who Form and Dismiss Governments” – Vij
He reiterated, “People have dethroned many authoritarian governments, and today, we must resolve to keep our democracy pure and fight against those who still harbor autocratic tendencies. Some individuals still claim that they hold all the power, but the true source of power is our democracy—it is the people who elect and remove governments in this country.”
Sh. Vij remarked that India is celebrating its 76th Republic Day, and it is a great honor and privilege for him to unfurl the national flag on this occasion. He said, “I extend my heartfelt congratulations and best wishes to all of you on this joyous occasion.
It is an even greater privilege for me to return to the very college where I pursued my graduation until 1972. I bow to all the known and unknown teachers of this institution, whose guidance has enabled me to serve in every corner of Haryana.”
Freedom Fighters Struggled Hard to Liberate the Nation – Vij
He said that on this very day in 1950, our Constitution came into effect. Because of this Constitution, we all received the right to justice, liberty, and equality. On this occasion, I pay my respects to Baba Saheb Dr. B.R. Ambedkar and all the members of the Constituent Assembly.
The Republic Day carries a long and glorious history of sacrifices made by our patriots. To free the country, many freedom fighters, including the Father of the Nation Mahatma Gandhi, Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose, Shaheed Bhagat Singh, Rajguru, Sukhdev, Chandrashekhar Azad, and Udham Singh, struggled for a long time.
Today, I salute all the known and unknown martyrs who sacrificed their lives for the nation's freedom, along with the brave soldiers who laid down their lives defending the country post-independence. Sh. Vij said that the revolution of 1857 first began in the Ambala Cantonment.
Nine hours before the uprising in Meerut, on May 10, 1857, the brave soldiers of Haryana confronted the British. The spark that ignited here not only led to the First War of Independence and ended the rule of the East India Company but also fueled a mass movement, which eventually helped overthrow British rule in 1947.
Work for Justice and Equality Under PM Modi’s Leadership – Vij
He said that the work being carried out under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi aligns with the soul of our Constitution. Prioritizing the most vulnerable sections and empowering them reflects the Modi government's core mantra—"Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, Sabka Vishwas, and Sabka Prayas”.
The transformations and unprecedented successes witnessed today in the country and the state are the results of Prime Minister Modi's bold and visionary leadership.Through schemes like Ujjwala Yojana, Ayushman Bharat, PM Awas Yojana, and PM Suryaghar Yojana, millions of Indians have been empowered.
These initiatives have given weaker sections of society the opportunity for equality, dignity, and self-reliance. The historic decisions taken under PM Modi’s leadership are significantly contributing to the nation’s rebuilding.
Major steps such as the construction of the Ram Temple, the abolition of Triple Talaq to provide justice and dignity to Muslim women, and the abrogation of Articles 370 and 35A to integrate Jammu and Kashmir into the national mainstream have been crucial in shaping the country's future.
He also mentioned that Union Home Minister Amit Shah played a key role in integrating Jammu and Kashmir into the national mainstream.
Our Government Has Taken Major Steps for Ambala’s Development – Vij
Sh. Vij said that his government has prioritized Ambala’s development, leading to continuous progress. Notable projects included Atal Cancer Care Center established at a cost of ₹57 crore, Subdivision Mini Secretariat built at ₹42 crore, Five-story building for the District Civil Hospital constructed for ₹35.54 crore, Redevelopment and beautification of Subhash Park at ₹29 crore, New Grain-Vegetable-Fodder Market on the Ambala-Delhi Road at ₹26.78 crore, Sports Hostel built for ₹13 crore, upgradation of IOC Sub-Station (66 kV capacity) in Ambala Cantonment, Escalator Foot Over Bridge at Civil Hospital and Cycle Track, Boundary Wall, and Street Lights at Gandhi Ground for ₹93.62 lakh.
I Will Try to Get Asia’s Largest Shaheed Smarak Inaugurated by PM Modi – Vij
He announced that a Azadi ki Pehle Ladai ka Shaheed Smarak is in its final stage of construction on GT Road, Ambala Cantonment, to honor the unsung heroes of the 1857 revolution. Various exhibits showcasing the freedom struggle will be displayed, allowing visitors to relive history and understand the sacrifices made by freedom fighters.
He stated, "I will make every effort to have the world’s most popular leader, PM Narendra Modi, inaugurate Asia’s largest Shaheed Smarak. The project will be completed within the next six months."
Additionally, the Bank Square-cum-Shopping Mall project is progressing, and domestic flights from Ambala’s new airport will commence soon, boosting regional development. A meeting on this matter was held today, with officials arriving from Delhi for discussions.
Ex-Gratia Compensation for Martyred Soldiers' Families Doubled to ₹1 Crore – Vij
He said that the government has doubled the ex-gratia compensation for families of martyred soldiers to ₹1 crore and has provided government jobs to the dependents of 416 martyrs from Haryana. The pension for freedom fighters and their widows has been increased to ₹40,000 per month, while democracy fighters who endured imprisonment during the Emergency now receive ₹20,000 per month.
Under the "Mhara Gaon-Jagmag Gaon" scheme, villages are being provided with 24-hour electricity supply. The PM Suryaghar Free Electricity scheme aims to install solar systems on one lakh rooftops, and plans are underway to install solar systems on all government buildings and bus stands.
27,000 Youth Given Government Jobs in the Third Term – Vij
Sh. Vij revealed that "Happy Cards" have been issued to provide free travel up to 1,000 km annually for poor families. Haryana’s transport department is purchasing 650 new buses, including 150 AC buses and 500 non-AC buses, while also exploring pollution-free transportation options.The "Grap-4 Subsistence Allowance Scheme (Phase 1 and 2)" has provided ₹230 crore in financial assistance to 4.51 lakh registered workers in the NCR region.
Additionally, ₹50.28 crore has been allocated to 73,697 workers under various labor schemes. The government has given 27,000 youth government jobs in its third term, bringing the total to 1.75 lakh government jobs so far.
He praised former CM Manohar Lal Khattar for initiating this recruitment process and acknowledged CM Nayab Singh Saini for continuing it. Notably, 27,000 appointment letters were distributed even before the current CM took the oath, fulfilling the dreams of the youth and boosting their confidence.
Target to Make 5 Lakh Women “Lakhpati Didis” – Vij
He highlighted that PM Modi has launched a scheme to provide ₹5 lakh annual free medical treatment for senior citizens above 70 years, which has also been implemented in Haryana, benefitting 45 lakh families. In the past 10 years, 79 new colleges have been opened in Haryana, 30 exclusively for girls.
Special bus services for female students have also been launched to ensure their safety. Additionally, over 13 lakh families receive LPG cylinders at just ₹500 per month to support their household needs. A significant target has been set to make 5 lakh women "Lakhpati Didis" (women earning ₹1 lakh annually). So far, 1.85 lakh women have already achieved this status.
India’s Path to Becoming a Developed Nation by 2047" – Vij
Sh. Vij reaffirmed PM Modi’s vision of making India a developed nation by 2047, urging everyone to contribute towards nation-building and eliminating corruption. He concluded by emphasizing Haryana’s key role in India’s progress, calling on citizens to strengthen democracy and work towards a prosperous future.
Cabinet Minister Anil Vij Dances to Punjabi Song with His Granddaughter
During the Republic Day program, Cabinet Minister Anil Vij enthusiastically danced on stage to a Punjabi song with his one-and-a-half-year-old granddaughter, Ananya. Vij stated that everyone should dance on such a joyful occasion. Seeing him, others on stage also joined in and danced along.
Announces ₹10 Lakh from discretionary Fund and Declares a School Holiday
Anil Vij announced a donation of ₹10 lakh from his discretionary fund for children, employees, staff, and others who participated in cultural programs at the Republic Day event. He also declared a school holiday on January 27 in celebration of Republic Day.
Flagged Off Electric Buses – All to Halt at Subhash Park
During the program, Minister flagged off five electric AC buses for local routes in Ambala. A total of 15 city buses operate on different routes, all passing through Subhash Park, which will serve as a stop for all buses to allow more people to visit and enjoy the park.The first electric bus route will run from Ambala Cantonment to the city via Chandpuri, Machhonda, Shahpur, Nanheda Pul, BD Flour Mill, Outer Large Road, Subhash Park, and the bus stand.
The second route will run from Panjokhra Sahib to Ambala City via Kalarehri, Defense Colony, Tundla, Topkhana, Subhash Park, and Ambala Cantt Bus Stand. The third route will start from Boh, passing through Babyal Power House, Tangri Dam, Babyal, Tangri Dam Road, Mahesh Nagar, Subhash Park, Ambala Cantt Bus Stand, and reaching Ambala City.
Haryana Excelling in Solar Energy – ₹78 Crore Reward Received
Energy Minister Anil Vij mentioned that in a recent meeting held in Jaipur, Haryana’s achievements in solar energy were highly praised, and the state received a reward of ₹78 crore. The central government and other states have been advised to follow Haryana’s solar energy initiatives.Under the PM Suryaghar Scheme, people need to be made aware that anyone with an annual income below ₹1.8 lakh can benefit from this scheme.
The central government provides a subsidy of ₹60,000, while the Haryana government contributes ₹50,000. Vij urged all social organizations, political parties, and institutions to spread awareness about this scheme. Additionally, under the Pradhan Mantri KUSUM scheme for rural areas, Vij emphasized that they aim to exceed their target. He also announced plans to install solar panels in all government buildings.
650 New Buses to be Added to the Transport Fleet
Transport Minister Anil Vij said that the addition of 500 ordinary and 150 air-conditioned buses to the transport fleet. Orders for these buses have already been placed. He also flagged off five new electric buses under the local bus service between Ambala Cantonment and Ambala City.
Before flagging off, he inspected the buses’ features, seating arrangements, and other facilities. Vij emphasized that these buses will significantly benefit the general public.In a recent meeting chaired by Union Minister Nitin Gadkari on All India Transport, Vij participated and presented several transport-related suggestions, which were highly appreciated.
Honoring Outstanding Individuals with Certificates of Appreciation
At the event, officials, athletes, students, employees, and social workers who had made remarkable contributions were honored with certificates of appreciation.Among the awardees in the sports category were Mayank Rana, Prabhakaran Singh, Jayant Rauta, Harnur Kaur, Prabhsmir Kaur, Parisa Shammi, Kanishka, Kanishtha Saini, Tavneet Kaur, and Muskan.
In the education sector, Simrat Kaur was recognized. In social service, recognition was given to Kadam Foundation Trust, social worker Rakesh Kumar Makkar, Guru Ki Rahmat Seva’s Bimpy Rekhi, and Dr. Neelam. Government officials honored included Ayurvedic Medical Officer Dr. Samidha Sharma, retired SDO Public Health Jitendra Singh, SD College Clerk Sanjeev Kumar, Junior Programmer Richa from the District Election Office, Judicial Department's Reader Ram Avatar, Clerk Harminder Singh, and several police officers.
Journalists from various media organisation, including Dainik Jagran, Aaj Tak, Punjab Kesari, Hindustan Times, Amar Ujala, The Tribune, NDTV, and Zee News, were also honored for their contributions to journalism.
In the Republic Day parade, the District Police (Men) team secured first place, followed by the Railway Police in second place, and the District Police (Women) team in third place. In the junior wing, the Police DAV School Band won first place, followed by the Scouts and Guides team in second place, and the NCC Cadet team in third place.
Among the tableaus, the Transport Department's tableau secured first place, Samagra Shiksha Department's tableau came second, and DRDA Department's tableau took third place. Energy Minister Vij honored all winners with commemorative mementos.
Deputy Commissioner Parth Gupta presented the chief guest with a memento, a copy of the Indian Constitution’s preamble, and a book on the Indian Constitution. Under the guidance of Transport, Energy, and Labor Minister Anil Vij, various government departments organized Republic Day tableaus showcasing government schemes and initiatives in different markets of Ambala Cantonment. The procession aimed to inform the public about these schemes.
Several dignitaries, including IG Ambala Range Sibas Kaviraj, Deputy Commissioner Parth Gupta, SP Surendra Singh Bhauria, Municipal Commissioner Sachin Gupta, Additional Deputy Commissioner Dr. Brahmjeet, and various political and social leaders, attended the event.