Kurukshetra (Haryana) [India], January 17 (HBTV): Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini participated in a pre-budget consultation program on Monday at Kurukshetra University in Thanesar, ahead of the state’s 2025-26 budget.

CM Saini praised the suggestions provided by students during the session and assured that these would be considered in the upcoming budget. Speaking to mediapersons, he said, ‘Today we sat with our youth and took suggestions regarding the pre-budget. All the suggestions are very good, which will benefit the people of Haryana. We will also include the suggestions given here in the budget.’

During his visit to Kurukshetra, CM Saini also celebrated Lohri and extended festive greetings to the public.

‘I extend my heartiest congratulations and best wishes to all the citizens of the state and the country on the occasion of Lohri and Makar Sankranti. These great festivals are connected with our culture and brotherhood. We celebrate these festivals together,’ he said.

Lohri, celebrated on the eve of Makar Sankranti, marks the end of the winter solstice and the beginning of longer days. This harvest festival is observed across India under various names, including Sankranti, Pongal, Magh Bihu, and Uttarayan. It signifies gratitude for a bountiful harvest and is celebrated with traditional feasts, bonfires, and folk melodies.

The festival holds special significance in Northern India, particularly in Punjab and Haryana, where it is observed with great joy and enthusiasm.

On Sunday, CM Saini paid tribute to Swami Vivekananda on his 163rd birth anniversary in Panchkula. Describing him as a great thinker, the Chief Minister highlighted Vivekananda’s enduring legacy.

(ANI)