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SAD REJECTS RS. 50 BONUS ON WHEAT
Chandigarh April 16: Shiromani Akali Dal today out rightly rejected Rs. 50 bonus on wheat announced by Cabinet Committee Economic Affairs setup by Congress led UPA Government and said that the Party would continue to fight till its demand for Rs. 300 bonus over and above enhanced MSP was not accepted by the Union Government. In a statement issued here today S. Sukhbir Singh Badal, President Shiromani Akali Dal and Deputy Chief Minister Punjab said that by firstly raising MSP of wheat by a meagre Rs. 20 and now announcing Rs. 50 bonus on Rs. 1120 MSP of wheat, reflected that Congress led UPA Government was out to crush farmers of Punjab who have made India self sufficient on food security front. Mr. Badal said that Shiromani Akali Dal had kept a consistent line that Minimum Support Price of Agriculture produce should be linked to Whole Sale Price Index as recommended by Swaminathan Commission. He said that during last year the rates of agriculture inputs including seeds, fertilizers , insecticides pesticides and agriculture labour had risen many fold and by announcing Rs. 20 increase in MSP and now Rs. 50 bonus, Congress led UPA Government has exposed its anti farmer face. He said that on one hand cabinet has recently partially deregulated fertilizer pricing, giving a nod for 20% hike in fertilizer prices, the paltry announcement of bonus showed that Congress led UPA Government was playing in the hands of import lobby that wanted to make India dependent on import of foodgrains. The SAD President said that on one hand Punjab Government was encouraging farmers to fulfil the national goals by providing them free electricity worth Rs. 3000 crore per year and farmers themselves were working day and night to maximise the wheat production for central pool. But he regretted that Congress led UPA Government instead of encouraging farmers was out to push them deeper in the depth trap by announcing Rs. 50 bonus on wheat. Mr. Badal said that a Punjab was hoping for a record production of 155 Lakh MT wheat this year but seeing the anti farmers attitude of Congress led UPA Government, it would be difficult to motivate farmers for sowing wheat and rice for national food security. Demanding immediate announcement of Rs. 300 bonus instead of Rs. 50, Mr. Badal said that he along with Chief Minister S. Parkash Singh Badal would soon meet Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh at New Delhi to press for this CM REJECTS WHEAT BONUS OF RS.50 AND TERMS IT AS ‘A CRUEL JOKE WITH THE PEASANTRY’ CHANDIGARH APRIL 16: Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today rejected the bonus of Rs. 50/- per quintal on Wheat over and above the Minimum Support Price of Rs.1120/- per quintal for the current Rabi marketing season and described it as inadequate much delayed and unjustified. In a statement, Mr. Badal said that the non-remunerative MSP coupled with anti-farmer policies of Centre was primarily responsible for the slow down of the agricultural growth. The Chief Minister said that though his government had been constantly pleading the case of Punjab's beleaguered peasantry that was in great distress and demanded MSP of at least Rs.1400/- per quintal of wheat from the Government of India. Mr. Badal lamented that it was a paradoxical situation that the MSP demanded by farming community was far below the price at which the country had been importing wheat from Australia and there was hardly any justification to deprive the local producers of the same price. Mr. Badal pointed out that the UPA government had recently raised the MSP of wheat by just Rs.20 a quintal to Rs. 1120 per quintal for the current procurement season spokes volumes of complete insensitivity and its apathetic attitude towards the plight of these hapless farmers who were already in distress due to low returns on their produce despite exorbitant cost of agricultural inputs incurred by them on diesel, fertilizers, pesticides etc. He further said that the Centre’s decision to pay bonus of Rs.50 per quintal on wheat over and above the MSP of Rs.1120 per quintal could never be the answer to the agony of the farming community. Mr. Badal said that the Centre should have appreciated the ground realities in a holistic manner to provide a level playing field to the farmers, rather rubbing salt on their wounds with this unreasonable and un-realistic hike in the price of Wheat at a point of time when the MSP was not commensurate with the ever increasing costs of agricultural inputs. Mr. Badal said that it was a high time for the Centre to awake from deep slumber in order to fix the MSP by providing a margin of 50% over the cost of production to the farmers as suggested by an agricultural economist Dr. MS Swaminathan. The Centre should had at least realized the immense contribution of Punjab farmers to make our country self sufficient in food production to ensure national food security before announcing this unreasonable increase in MSP of Wheat. Instead of rewarding them with remunerative MSP, the Centre had actually demoralized them by making the agriculture a non-viable occupation due to its wrong and arbitrary policies, added by Mr. Badal. PUNJAB CM GREETS PEOPLE ON THE OCCASION OF MAHAVIR JAYANTI CHANDIGARH APRIL 15: Punjab Chief Minister Mr.Parkash Singh Badal today felicitated to the people of the State on the auspicious occasion of Mahavir Jayanti. In a message Mr.Badal called upon the different sections of the society to follow the philosophy and teachings of Lord Mahavira, who propagated the principles of simple living and high thinking to achieve the ultimate goal of salvation. Mr.Badal said that the message of Lord Mahavir for universal brotherhood, communal harmony and peace was even far more relevant in the present materialistic society. The Chief Minister appealed the people to follow the path shown by Lord Mahavir ji to celebrate this auspicious occasion in unison and with religious fervour to further strengthen the secular and social bonds of our society. ...
INFORMATION AND PUBLIC RELATIONS DEPARTMENT PUNJAB PUNJAB IMPOSES BAN ON POLYTHENE BAGS FROM MAY 01, 2011 Ø DCs / LOCAL BODIES TOLD TO ENSURE STRICTLY IMPLEMENT Ø MANUFACTURE, UNAUTHORISED DISPOSAL, USAGE OF POLYTHENE TO ATTRACT IMPRISONMENT UPTO THREE MONTHS Chandigarh April 15: The Punjab Government today decided to strictly implement ‘The Punjab Plastic Bags (Manufacture, Usage and Disposal) Control Act’, prohibiting the manufacture, disposal and usage of polythene bags from virgin plastic of thickness not less than 30 micron and size not less than 8 X 12 inches and of a colour other than specified colour. According to an official spokesman the Council of Ministers in a recent meeting had felt that after imposition of ban on polythene in New Delhi, Himachal Pradesh and Chandigarh, there had been a substantial improvement in the environment. The Council of Minister felt that Punjab should also strictly implement the ban from 1st May 2011 in the larger public interest. The spokesman said that indiscriminate use of polythene was causing multiple problems in the society. The Local Bodies were complaining repeatedly regarding the blockage of sewerage system that was getting chocked with non biodegradable polythene. The Animal Husbandry department had also been issuing warnings that lot of stray cattle were dying after consuming waste polythene less than 30 micron from the dumping pits. The Environment of the State was also getting polluted with the large scale usage of polythene. The fertility of soil of the agrarian state of Punjab was also getting affected with the indiscriminate disposal of polythene in an unscientific manner that was making the soil barren. According to the spokesman all Deputy Commissioners, Local Bodies have been asked to implement this act strictly with effect from 1st May 2011. The Director Panchayat has been asked to issue instructions to all Panchayats and Zila Parishads for its implementation. According to the Act no person would manufacture or carry bags from virgin plastic of thickness not less than 30 micron and size not less than 8 X 12 inches. Every manufacturer of polythene would print on each carry bag his name, address , registration number, size, thickness and nature of plastic from it is made and codification as per IS :14534 :1998. The Act specified that no person would throw in any drain, ventilation shaft, pipe and fitting connected with private or public drainage or at any public place or in any place open to public view any non-biodegradable garbage or plastic or biodegradable garbage in a non-biodegradable bag. The violation of the act by the manufacturer, carrier, user or unauthorised disposal of the polythene would attract imprisonment up to three months. According to the Act non-biodegradable plastics have been listed as Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET), High Density Polyethylene ( HDPE), Poly Vinyl Chlorine ( PVC ), Low Density Polyethylene (LDPE), Polypropylene (PP), Polystyrene (PS), Polybutadiene Trephthalate (PBT), Acrilonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS) and Acrylic. EC SETUP CALL CENTRE TO REGISTER COMPLAINTS Chandigarh, April 15: As per the directions of Election Commission of India, a call centre has set up at the office of Chief Electoral Officer, Punjab, Chandigarh for receiving the complaints from general public regarding electoral rolls. Stating this here today spokesman of Chief Electoral Officer, Punjab said that any body could register his complaint regarding the electoral rolls of Punjab State or any other complaint related to election matters on Telephone No- 0172-2701910. 83219 TONNES WHEAT PROCURED IN PUNJAB Chandigarh, April 15: Government agencies and private millers procured more than 83219 tonnes of Wheat till last evening whereas 3136186 Tonnes wheat procured last year. Out of total procurement of 83219 tonnes of wheat in all the procurement centers of Punjab, Government agencies procured 81081 tonnes of wheat (97.04%) till date whereas private traders procured 2138 tonnes (2.6%) of wheat. Till April 14, PUNGRAIN had procured 9271 tonnes (11.1%) whereas MARKFED procured 20781 tonnes (25.0%). PUNSUP procured 25675 tonnes (30.9%), PSWC procured 5074 tonnes (6.1%) whereas PAIC was able to procure 12789 tonnes (15.4 %) of wheat. The Central Government agency FCI had been able to procure 7491 tonnes of wheat which was the 9.0% of the total procurement of wheat in the state. The spokesman added that District S.A.S (Mohali) with 7581 tonnes of procurement was leading in procurement operations whereas district Sangrur a 7560 tonnes of procurement was at second slot and District Fatehgarh Sahib with 4647 tonnes of procurement ranked at third position The State Government has set up 1634 procurement centres and activated its total machinery to ensure smooth procurement of wheat, the spokesman added. SUKHBIR SEEKS PROTECTION OF 1984' ANTI SIKH RIOT WITNESSES, CUSTODIAL DETENTION OF SAJJAN AND TYTLER Chandigarh, April 15: Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal, President Shiromani Akali Dal and Deputy Chief Minister Punjab today petitioned President of India Mrs. Pratibha Devi Singh Patil seeking immediate protection of all witnesses of 1984 anti Sikh riot cases under “Witnesses Protection Programme” as they were being threatened, coerced and lured by Congress leaders to retract from their deposition to save the skin of 10, Janpath. He also sought the intervention of President of India for ordering immediate custodial detention of all accused including Sajjan Kumar and Jagdish Tytler as they were misusing their freedom to threaten the witnesses to retract from their original deposition or depose in their favour. In a communiqué to President of India, the SAD President has referred to the latest revelations by the sting operation of an electronic channel in which senior Congress leader was seen threatening the witness Nirpreet Kaur to retract from her statement that she had seen Sajjan Kumar ordering to a crowd during 1984 anti sikh riots that not even a single Sikh should be left alive and all Sikhs should be killed. Mr. Badal said that sting operation clearly shows that she was being again and again pressurised to meet Sajjan Kumar in person and accept his terms and conditions. Mr. Badal said that the sting operation also showed that she was given an allurement of Rs. 3 Crore to retract from her statement in favour of Sajjan Kumar. The SAD President said that similarly all witnesses were being threatened and coerced by Congress leadership as they fear that in custodial interrogation Sajjan and Tytler may spill the beans raising finger at the main architect of that Sikh carnage, which may reflect adversely on the occupants of 10, Janpath. He said that as done in Gujarat riots case by Supreme Court of India, witnesses should be given protection by the neutral central forces and they should be kept in a non Congress ruled state in anonymity, for fair and expeditious trial of these cases till the completion of trial. Simultaneously, the President of India should order immediate custodial detention of Sajjan and Tytler as they were misusing their freedom to browbeat the witnesses, fabricating evidences and making a mockery of whole legal process. Giving the instance of Congress party using its total machinery to scuttle the trial of Sajjan and Tytler, Mr. Badal pointed out that it was matter of great regret that sting operation has shown a member belonging to Congress party of Constitutional body National Minority Commission, threatening the witness. He said that the Commission which was meant to the protection of minorities was acting in contrary to its own mission and stated objective. Giving another instances Mr. Badal said that when the tragic massacre of sixty Sikhs at Hond Chillar in 1984 and keeping the matter under wraps for 26 years was exposed by a Gurgaon based Sikh employed of a multination company, embarrassed Congress Chief Minister of that state had arm twisted that company to sack that Sikh employee from the company on a flimsy ground. Similarly, a media person was sacked that too at the instance of Congress Chief Minister of Delhi when he raised uncomfortable question regarding 1984 riots to then Union Home Minister in a press conference. Mr. Badal said that Congress party has activated all forces to scuttle the trial of Sajjan and Tytler and President would have to intervene to ensure justice to the families of over 3000 Sikhs slain in 1984 riots, waiting for justice since more than 26 years. PUNJAB CM GREETS PEOPLE ON BAISAKHI CHANDIGARH APRIL 13: Punjab Chief Minister Mr.Parkash Singh Badal today felicitated the people of Punjab on the auspicious occasion of Baisakhi, symbolizing the spirit of Punjab, Punjabi & Punjabiat. In a message on the eve of Baisakhi, Mr.Badal reminded the people of our centuries old rich legacy and said that on this sacred day in 1699 Sri Guru Gobind Singh ji - the Tenth Master of the Sikhs created 'Order of Khalsa' at the holy city of Sri Anandpur Sahib by baptizing 'Panj Pyaras (beloved ones) belonging to different regions and religions thereby carving out a casteless society and preaching the gospels of love and compassion for mankind, universal brotherhood and communal harmony. The Chief Minister also said that this festival marks the beginning of the harvest season and ripening of Rabi crops. The farmers of the state gather the fruits of toil and rejoice over their prosperous future. On the occasion, Mr.Badal called upon the people to celebrate this joyous festival in unison with traditional fervour and gaiety to strengthen the secular and social fabric of our country. … BADAL GREETS PEOPLE ON BIRTH ANNIVERSARY OF DR. B.R. AMBEDKAR CHANDIGARH APRIL 13: The Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today felicitated the people on the 120th birth anniversary of Bharat Rattan Babasaheb Dr. B R Ambedkar, the founding father of the Indian Constitution. In a message, Mr. Badal said that one should be committed to realize the dreams of Dr. Ambedkar, who had a vision of great democratic India to ensure equality for all. The Chief Minister said that Dr. Ambedkar had always advocated democracy in every field, be it social, economic and political. “For him social Justice meant maximum happiness to the maximum number of people” said Mr. Badal. On this occasion, Mr. Badal appealed to the people to follow the path shown by Dr. Ambedkar and shun the parochial considerations of religion, caste, colour and creed to create a harmonious and egalitarian society. xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx 10079 TONNES WHEAT PROCURED IN PUNJAB Chandigarh, April 13: Government agencies and private millers procured more than 10079 tonnes of Wheat till last evening whereas 947560 Tonnes wheat procured last year. Out of total procurement of 10079 tonnes of wheat in all the procurement centers of Punjab, Government agencies procured 8819 tonnes of wheat (87.05%) till date whereas private traders procured 1260 tonnes (12.5%) of wheat. Till April 12, PUNGRAIN had procured 492 tonnes (4.9%) whereas MARKFED procured 2230 tonnes (22.01%). PUNSUP procured 2607 tonnes (25.9%), PSWC procured 304 tonnes (3.0%) whereas PAIC was able to procure 1071 tonnes (10.6 %) of wheat. The Central Government agency FCI had been able to procure 2115 tonnes of wheat which was the 21.0% of the total procurement of wheat in the state. The State Government has set up 1634 procurement centres and activated its total machinery to ensure smooth procurement of wheat, the spokesman added. xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx SUKHBIR SINGH BADAL GREETS PEOPLE ON THE EVE OF BAISAKHI Chandigarh April 13: Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal, Deputy Chief Minister Punjab today felicitated the people of the Punjab on the eve of Baisakhi. In a message Mr. Badal said that this festival has a great significance for the farmers of Punjab as this day traditionally marks the beginning of harvest of Rabi crops, on a joyous note. This harvest festival is indeed an occasion for them to rejoice over their fruits of toil and for all of us to acknowledge Punjabi farmers' significant contribution in making our country self-reliant on the front of food security. Mr. Badal said that this festival has also a great religious significance for Sikhs as on this day in the year 1699 at Sri Anandpur Sahib, Guru Gobind Singh ji established Khalsa Panth, a body of people dedicated to the principles of truth, justice, and equality; the cardinal principles of Sikh faith. The Deputy Chief Minister said that the massacre of hundreds of innocent Punjabis by the British at Jallianwala Bagh, Amritsar on this day in the year 1919 proved as the last nail in the coffin of British rule in India. Mr. Badal called upon people to celebrate this festival collectively and utilize this day to pay our gratitude to all those known and unknown freedom fighters, who laid their lives to ensure the freedom of the country. Let us also acknowledge the contribution of hard working farmers who are working day and night to feed the nation, Mr. Badal added. xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx SUKHBIR CALLS UPON PEOPLE TO FULFILL THE DREAMS OF DR. B.R. AMBEDKAR Chandigarh, April 13: Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal, Deputy Chief Minister today called upon people to rededicate themselves for eliminating caste and other discriminations and exploitations in the Society fulfilling the unfinished task of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar In a message on the eve of birth anniversary of Baba Saheb Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, the Deputy Chief Minister described him as a social revolutionary of great vision, legal luminary of great acumen, staunch champion of human rights who was still fondly remembered for his pioneering role in the drafting of our Constitution. He said that Dr. Ambedkar was a multi-faceted personality known for his uncompromising advocacy of the cause of the weak and the oppressed. Mr. Badal said that on this day we all should resolve to build a just and humane society fulfilling the dreams of Baba Saheb. xxxxxxxxxxxx KAHLON GREETS PEOPLE ON BAISAKHI ALSO GREETS ON BIRTH ANNIVERSARY OF DR. B.R.AMBEDKAR CHANDIGARH, APRIL 13: Speaker Punjab Vidhan Sabha S. Nirmal Singh Kahlon today extended his greeting to the people of Punjab on the auscpicious occasion of Baishakhi and also felicitated the people on the 120th birth anniversary of Dr. B.R.Amedkar. Mr. Kahlon said that this festival has a great religious significance for Sikhs as on this day in the year 1699 at Sri Anandpur Sahib, Guru Gobind Singh ji established Khalsa Panth, a body of people dedicated to the principles of truth, justice, and equality; the cardinal principles of Sikh faith. On the occasion, Mr. Kahlon called upon the Punjabis to celebrate this auspicious festival in unison with traditional fervour and gaiety to strengthen the secular and social fabric of our country. In a message on the eve of birth anniversary of Baba Saheb Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, the Mr. Kahlon described him a social revolutionary of great vision, legal luminary of great acumen, staunch champion of human rights who was still fondly remembered for his pioneering role in the drafting of our Constitution. He said that Dr. Ambedkar was a many-faceted personality known for his uncompromising advocacy of the cause of the weak and the oppressed. Mr. Kahlon said that on this day we all should resolve to build a just and humane society fulfilling the dreams of Baba Saheb. APOLOGIZE TO NATION FOR DENIGRATING MARTYRS-SAD TELLS CONGRESS PARTY Chandigarh, April 12 : Shiromani Akali Dal today asked Congress party to tender unqualified apology to the Nation for deliberately denigrating martyrs Bhagat Singh, Rajguru and Sukhdev in a write up published in the official magazine of Congress party “Sandesh”. In a statement issued here today Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal President Shiromani Akali Dal and Deputy Chief Minister Punjab today said that it was matter of shame that Congress party has described martyr Sukhdev Singh as “murderer” and by restricting martyrdom Bhagat Singh and Rajguru to a particular caste, Congress has exposed its real communal face to the people of the country. Mr. Badal said that Congress since its inception of the party had been ruling the country by dividing the people on communal and caste lines and by extending the virus of communalism to Bhagat Singh and Rajguru, the Congress party has showed that how deep it can fall in its blind lust for the power. The SAD President said that Bhagat Singh, Rajguru and Sukhdev made unparalleled sacrifice for the freedom of the country as a true Indian rising above the parochial feelings of caste and community but Congress party, true to its nature was dividing the martyrs on caste lines. He said that it was matter of great regret that Congress party has described Sukhdev Singh as a “murderer” of General Sandras. He said that this whole episode raises a question mark on the role of Congress party in the freedom struggle. Mr. Badal said that on hand Congress party on the sacred soil of Khatkar Kalan swears to the name of martyr Bhagat Singh, Rajguru and Sukhdev and in the same breath it describes them as “murderer”. He said that this reflects the double face of Congress party who was out to befool public for vote politics. Demanding unqualified apology for hurting the sentiments of 1.21 billion Indians Mr. Badal said that nothing short of unqualified apology would be acceptable to the people of India. SAD demands immediate resignation of DSGMC Chief. Chandigarh 12 April: The Shiromani Akali Dal expressed deep grief and anguish over the report released by Sikh Organisations regarding the condition of Sikh Gurdawaras demolished in November, 1984 in Delhi and demanded immediate resignation of DSGMC Chief S. Paramjit Singh Sarna and all other office bearers of the Committee.
In a statement released from the Party Head Office, the Shiromani Akali Dal Secretary & Spokesman Dr. Daljit Singh Cheema said that this report has shaken the whole Sikh Community & it has exposed the hippocracy and criminal negligence of the Sarna brothers.
Dr. Cheema further said that the report released by All India Sikh Student Federation and Sikhs for justice reveals that Sarna brothers had no time in the last 26 years to look after these damaged Gurdawaras and took no pains to restore “Maryada”. All these years, Sarnas were busy giving “Clean Chits” to the Congress party and issuing uncalled for the statements against the working of SGPC to please congress leaders. “The history will never forgive Sarna brothers for their misleads and for the conspiracies hatched by them against Sikh Community,” added Dr Cheema. In the end, SAD demanded that the present report has shown that Sarnas have no moral authority to manage the Sikh Shrines any more and should resign without any delay.
(Dr. Daljit Singh Cheema) Secretary & Spokesman, Shiromani Akali Dal GENDER SENSITIVE POLICIES TAKES PUNJAB AHEAD OF HARYANA IN IMPROVING SEX RATIO
Chandigarh, April 11: Punjab has been able to improve its sex ratio much ahead of neighbouring Haryana due to series of gender sensitive policies launched by SAD-BJP government during last four years. According to an official spokesman the provisional figures of 2011 census reflect the steep decline in sex ratio throughout the country, worst since independence but Punjab had been able to register 48 point increase in sex ratio in 0-6 years population from 798 to 846 female per 1000 male where as in neighbouring Haryana the increase was only 16 points. The credit for credible improvement in 0-6 year population goes to the initiatives of various gender sensitive schemes of Punjab government and consistent motivational and awareness campaign launched by NGOs including Nanhi Chhaan Programme that was instrumental in inspiring people and changing their mindset during last four years. Moving with the motto that economic empowerment of girl child was the first step besides religious motivation of couples to bring attitudinal change in them, Mrs Harsimrat Kaur Badal, Member Parliament impressed upon State government to introduce many pro girl child policies. Besides motivating the couples with Rs. 15000 long term LIC Policies in the name of girl child maturing to Rs. 1.25 lakh at the marriageable age of girls, bicycles to the school going girl child, other motivational schemes of free books and uniforms to girls of BPL families made a significant change in the mindset of people. Strict enforcement of PNDT act, creating a mass movement against female foeticide by Nanhi Chhaan were gave a new thrust to the save girl child programme especially in the remote rural areas. The all women conferences organised by Mrs. Badal at block level motivated the ladies to say a big NO to heinous practice of female foeticide. Its impact was also visible on female literacy front as female literacy in Punjab has gone up by 7.9 percentage points while the male literacy has increased by 6.3 points showing further narrowing down of gap in literacy rate of males and females. The Shaheed Bhagat Singh Nagar experiment to check female foeticide besides ensuring highest ever sex ratio for that district, motivated other states to replicate the same experiment to check declining sex ratio in their states. Some districts like Bathinda paid price for rapid industrial development as it showed the low sex ratio in the state, courtesy influx of over 55000 male migrant labours for the construction of Rs. 20000 crore Bathinda refinery project. The spokesman said that the state government would not be complacent with the progress and would continue to focus on ‘Save Girl Child’ programme to correct skewed sex ratio in coming years. ---- CHIEF MINISTER's OFFICE PUNJAB
CM ANNOUNCES REMISSION FOR PRISONERS ON BAISAKHI GIVES NOD FOR RECRUITMENT OF 910 POSTS IN JAIL DEPARTMENT CHANDIGARH APRIL 11: The Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today announced to grant remission of sentence from one year to two months on 14th April, 2011 the auspicious occasion of "Baisakhi" to the inmates who have been convicted by the criminal courts in the state. A decision to this effect was taken by Mr. Badal in a high level meeting to review the various ongoing activities and initiatives for the development of jails to ensure congenial atmosphere to the inmates undergoing imprisonment here at Chief Minister's Residence this morning. The remission of one year would be granted to the prisoners who had been awarded imprisonment from 10 to 20 years. Likewise remission of 9 months who had imprisoned for 7 to 10 years, 6 months in case of 5 to 7 years, 3 months to the prisoners who had been sentenced for a jail term of 3 to 5 years and 2 month to the prisoners with less than 3 years on the pious occasion of Baisakhi. However, the remission would not be granted to a person convicted in heinous crimes. The Chief Minister was also apprised that the newly constructed jails at Faridkot, Nabha, Mansa and Kapurthala would be handed over to the jail department by the PWD department by 31 May, 2011. He further directed the Principal Secretary Home Mr. DS Bains to visit all these jails personally and submit a detailed report intimating the status of the ongoing project. In another significant decision, the Chief Minister also gave nod to undertake recruitment in a transparent manner to fill 910 posts of head wardens, wardens and other miscellaneous staff within two months for the upcoming new jails. The Chief Minister also asked the Health department to provide adequate medical and para-medical staff in the 50 bedded hospitals in the Faridkot and Nabha jails besides opening up a drug de-addiction centre for the treatment of drug addicts imprisoned in the jails. Prominent amongst others who were present in the meeting included Jail Minister Mr. Hira Singh Gabria, Principal Secretary to Chief Minister Mr. DS Guru, Principal Secretary Home Mr. DS Bains and MD Punjab Police Housing Corporation Mr. MK Tiwari.
… DISPLAY OF INCOMPLETE STATE EMBLEM OF INDIA IS ILLEGAL
Chandigarh, April 11: A spokesman of the Punjab Government has cautioned the public in general and various government agencies who were using the State Emblem of India on their stationery, publications, seals, vehicles, buildings, websites etc. in particular not to use incomplete State Emblem of India without the motto "Satyameva Jayate" inscribed (in Devanagri script) below the profile of the Lion Capital. The Spokesman said that the incomplete display of the State Emblem of India was a violation of the State Emblem of India (Prohibition of Improper use) Act 2005 and the State Emblem of India (Regulation of Use) Rules, 2007. The spokesman further reiterated that the Government agencies who are authorized to use the State Emblem of India for various official purposes should depict the complete picture of the 'State Emblem' together with the motto "Satyameva Jayate"-in Devanagri script-inscribed below the profile of Lion Capital.
1704 TONNES WHEAT PROCURED IN PUNJAB Chandigarh, April 11: Government agencies and private millers procured more than 1704 tonnes of Wheat till last evening whereas 609619 Tonnes wheat procured last year. Out of total procurement of 1704 tonnes of wheat in all the procurement centers of Punjab, Government agencies procured 204 tonnes of wheat (12.0%) till date whereas private traders procured 269 tonnes (15.8%) of wheat. Till April 10, MARKFED had procured procured 25 tonnes (1.5%). PUNSUP procured 60 tonnes (3.5%), PSWC procured 39 tonnes (2.3%) whereas PAIC was able to procure 80 tonnes (4.7 %) of wheat. The Central Government agency FCI had been able to procure 1231tonnes of wheat which was the 72.2% of the total procurement of wheat in the state. The State Government has set up 1734 procurement centres and activated its total machinery to ensure smooth procurement of wheat, the spokesman added.
SUKHBIR GREETS PEOPLE ON THE EVE OF RAM NAVAMI
Chandigarh, April 11: The Punjab Deputy Chief Minister Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal today extended his greetings to the people of Punjab on the eve of Ram Navami. Mr. Badal in his message said that Lord Ram epitomized high values of righteous conduct and selfless service. He continues to be a beacon of light to mankind with his message that the good and the righteous always emerge victorious, he added. The Deputy Chief Minister said “May the celebrations of this joyous festival bring all our people together and inspire us to follow the highest moral and ethical values of Lord Ram and rededicate ourselves to build a glorious nation.” -----
Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today In his message, Mr. Badal said that this sacred day The Chief Minister called upon the people to follow the teachings of Lord Rama in true spirit, which were still relevant in the present materialistic society besides redeeming the mankind from the yoke of evils. He said that such pious occasions not only promote a sense of communal harmony and mutual understanding amongst the people but also showers joy and prosperity on them. Mr.Badal also appealed the people to celebrate this sacred day …
PUNJAB TO INTRODUCE E-AUCTION OF SAND MINES TO ENSURE FIXED AND CONTROL PRICES CHANIDGARH APRIL 11: The Punjab government would soon introduce the process of e-auction for the auction of various sand mines for next three year to control the prices of sand on one hand and ensure transparency in the system of sand mines auctioning on the other. A decision to this effect was taken by the Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal in a meeting here at Punjab Bhawan this afternoon. Mr. Badal asked the industries department to finalize the modalities of e-auction within 15 days on the basis of the inputs received from the deputy commissioners. The deputy commissioners would also submit the list of the sale points of the sand in various cities and towns within their jurisdiction to the industries department to enable it to include them in the proposed comprehensive policy of e-auction to ensure the availability of the sand to the consumers at a fixed controlled price. The Chief Minister directed the industries department to take immediate necessary action in this regard to control the rising prices in the state and further asked the deputy commissioners and senior superintendents of police to keep a strict vigil in order to check the mal practices involved in the illegal sale of the sand which resulted in its exorbitant prices. Mr. Badal also asked the industries department to ensure the e-auction of sand mines in a transparent manner which would ultimately result in controlling the prices of sand besides providing a level playing field to all the contractors especially the small ones. Prominent amongst others who were present in the meeting included Industries & Commerce Minister Mr. Manoranjan Kalia, Irrigation Minister Mr. Janmeja Singh Sekhon, Chief Secretary Mr. SC Agrawal, Financial Commissioner Taxation Mr. SS Brar, Principal Secretary to Chief Minister Mr. DS Guru, Principal Secretary Industries Mr. SS Channy, Principal Secretary Rural Development & Panchayats Mr. Jagpal Singh Sandhu. Besides the deputy commissioners and senior functionaries of the police department. …
CHANDIGARH, APRIL 11: The Search Committee constituted by the Board of Management of Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana to make recommendations about the Vice Chancellor of the University has decided in its meeting held here today that communication would be sent to Government of India, ICAR, all State Governments and all Agricultural universities in the country to inviting the applications from eligible candidates by the 5th May, 2011. The search committee also decided that a notice to this effect would also be posted at the website of Punjab Government and the Punjab Agricultural University Ludhiana respectively for this purpose. The meeting was attended by Chief Secretary, Punjab, Financial Commissioner Development Punjab and Chairman, Farmers Commission, Punjab. PRINCIPAL SECRETARY TO CHIEF MINISTER TO OVERALL COORDINATE THE PROCUREMENT OPERATION
Chandigarh, April 10: With a view to ensuring smooth and hassle free procurement of Wheat, the Punjab Government has asked the senior IAS and PCS officers to supervise the total procurement process of Wheat including timely payment to the farmers of their produce in the State. Disclosing this here today a spokesman of Punjab Government said that Mr. S R Ladhar, IAS, commissioner Jalandhar Division would supervise the procurement process of Wheat of Amritsar, Tarantaran, Jalandhar and Kapurthala District while Mr. G S Grewal IAS, Commissioner Patiala Division would supervise the procurement process of Wheat of Patiala, Ludhiana, Sangrur and Barnala Districts and Mr. Raminder Singh IAS, Commissioner Firozpur Division would look after the procurement process of Firozpur, Faridkot and Moga District. The spokesman further said that Mr.B S Sudan IAS Secretary personal and General Administration would look after the entire arrangement of Wheat procurement of Gurdaspur, Hoshiarpur and Saheed Bhagat Singh Nagar. While Mr. K J S Cheema IAS, Special Principal Secretary to Chief Minister Punjab would supervise the procurement operations in Bathinda, Mansa and Muktsar district and Mr. Gagandeep Singh Brar PCS Would look after the procurement process of Wheat in Ropar, Mohali and Fathegarh District. The spokesman added that these officers would insure smooth and hassle free procurement of Wheat in their respective districts and supervise the entire operation in the grain markets under jurisdiction. These officers have been asked to send the report of Wheat procurement to the Chief Secretary, Principal Secretary Chief Minister Punjab and Secretary Food and Civil Supplies and Consumer affairs department on day to day basis. The spokesman further said that Principal Secretary to Chief Minister Punjab Mr. D. S Guru would over all coordinate the entire procurement operation across the state and would also visits important grain markets in state to insure smooth, quick and hassle free procurement of Wheat on one hand to insure timely payment to farmers on the other. ---- PUNJAB TO WITNESS BI-POLAR CONTEST-SUKHBIR · OTHER PARTIES INCONSEQUENCIAL · PUNJAB TO HAVE A LOOK AT JAN LOKPAL BILL · SUKHBIR INAUGURATES CYBER CRIME-CUM-FORENSIC SCIENCE LABORATORY BUILDING
SAS Nagar Mohali, April 9 : Punjab Deputy Chief Minister Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal today said that for next Vidhan Sabha elections Punjab would witness bi- polar contest between SAD-BJP combine and Congress party and other parties were totally inconsequential. Replying to the queries of media persons regarding the impact of newly launched PPP on Punjab electoral scene Mr. Badal said that these seasonal outfits that get erupted in the time of election season and would not have any impact on the election of Punjab. When asked about Anna Hazare’s campaign Mr. Badal said that SAD had been demanding that all party meeting should be convened to get inputs for Janlokpal Bill and said that let the drafting committee draft the bill and let it be passed by Parliament then Punjab would also look on it whether that act could be replicated in Punjab. Mr. Badal said that rejection of debt waiver by the Congress led UPA government has exposed the falsehood of Manpreet who had been crying hoarse about the debt waiver scheme of Union government. He said that Manpreet’s polity stands on the foundations of falsehood and propaganda and his double face has been exposed by this rejection. Mr. Badal said that what to talk of debt waiver Congress led UPA government even declined to reschedule the loan. The Deputy Chief Minister said that we have strengthen the economy by rejuvenation the revenue as against 34000 crore revenue collection five years of Congress rule the revenue generation of SAD-BJP government in first four years has exceeded 71000 crore. Mr. Badal said that he has given sanction for purchase of state of art forensic equiptment and he has asked DGP to explore the possibility of mobile forensic labs to collect evidence from the spot of the crime. Earlire he inaugrated Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal inaugurated the state of the art ultra modern building of the Cyber Crime-cum-Forensic Science Laboratory building equipped with the latest gadget s This 4-storeyed bildingconstructed by Punjab Police Housing Corporation at the cost of Rs. 12.5 cores has been completed in a record time of 2 years. The Deputy Chief Minister said that State Crime Police Station and Cyber Crime Police Station would act as State referral centers for the sensitive criminal cases and Cyber Crime cases for the whole State of Punjab. He said that the Cyber Crime Lab has been equipped with the latest gadgets and utilities to act as a nodal center for cyber crime cases. He added that the Forensic Science Laboratory has been equipped with latest and modern scientific equipments required for examination of exhibits received from Police Stations across the state. Describing it a major step in the direction of governance reforms Mr. Badal said that all these efforts reflected the sincere efforts of the Punjab Government in providing timely justice to the general public. He said funds for all these efforts came from the State Budget as well as the modernization grant . He termed it as a commendable effort by Punjab Police and sincerity of the Punjab Government in delivering the governance reforms.
Deputy Chief Minister later formally inaugurated the Cyber Crime Police Station on the 1st Floor and State Forensic Sciences Laboratory on the 2nd and 3rd Floor of the building. On this occasion, the Deputy Chief Minister also released the ‘Crime Wing Manual-2011’ in 2 Volumes, which is a landmark effort on issues concerning special crimes. A ‘Handbook on NDPS and Drug Trafficking’ prepared by Crime Wing was also released on this occasion which is a well researched effort in war against drugs. CA. Neeraj Sharma has been instrumental in extending his professional expertise to deliver these publications for Punjab Police. It may be added that Cyber Crime-cum-Forensic Science Laboratory building at Phase-IV, SAS Nagar comprises of two basements having adequate space for parking 50 vehicles and an area of 13000 square feet in each basement and four floors having an approximate area of 10910 square feet at each floor. The ground floor would house Crime Police Station, First Floor having Cyber Crime Police Station and Second Floor & Third Floor were meant for Forensic Science Laboratory. The building of Forensic Science Laboratory is an Earth Quake Resistant RCC framed structure having permanent finishes on exterior surface. The building is well equipped with Fire Protection and Alarming System, 2 Passenger Lifts, 11 KV Indoor Sub Station etc. The construction work was taken in hand on February 2009 and completed in March 2011 at a cost of Rs.12.50 crores. Others prominent present on the occasion included Mr NK Sharma Chairman District Planning Committee, Harsukhinder Singh Bubby Badal Spokesman Youth Akali Dal, DGP PS Gill, DC and SSP Mohali . SUKHBIR LAYS THE FOUNDATION STONES OF PUNJAB INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY AND A 100-BEDDED MULTI SPECIALITY HOSPITAL REJECTION OF DEBT WAIVER BY CENTRE HAS EXPOSED MANPREET’s FALSEHOOD- SUKHBIR v Also exposes the anti Punjab bias of Congress led UPA Government v Centre Government deliberately creating storage crises of wheat to scuttle smooth procurement v Dares Amarinder to list a single development initiative of his regime v Anna Hazare’s anti corruption campaign exposed Congress’s weak kneed policies to fight the menace of corruption Mansa April 9: Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal Deputy Chief Minister Punjab today said that rejection of restructuring of Punjab’s debt by Congress led UPA Government has exposed the false propaganda of former Finance Minister Mr. Manpreet Singh Badal that Centre Government was sincere to waive off the debt of Punjab. Talking to the media after laying the foundation stones of Punjab Institute of Technology – a Regional Campus of PTU and 100 bedded Cancer cum Multi-speciality Medical Institute, MR. Badal said that this rejection has exposed the fact that Manpreet in secret pact with Congress leaders was befooling the people of Punjab. He said that since constitution of his new party stands on the foundation of false hood, Manpreet should apologise to the people of Punjab for misleading them. Lashing at Congress led UPA Government for step motherly treatment of Punjab Mr. Badal said that rejection of much required debt waiver, refusal for increasing storage capacity of food grains in the Punjab, refusal to allocate more bogies to transport old stock of wheat and rice from Punjab, rejection of special package for rejuvenating 125 year old canal system in Punjab and not acceding to the demand of Punjab to declare it special agriculture zone exposes the inherent anti Punjab bias of Congress party. He said that electorate of Punjab was quite vigilant and was watching this behaviour of centre Government and silence of Punjab Congress leadership on this. He said that SAD-BJP Government does not required to speak any thing as electorate knows that Punjab was being denied its rightful share in the central taxes collected from the hard working Punjabis. Referring to the anti corruption campaign launched by Anna Hajare, a Veteran Gandhian, Mr. Badal said that he has touched the pulse of 1.21 billion Indians by exposing the weak kneed policies of Congress party to fight against the menace of corruption. He said that Congress party was hell-bent to enter into Guinness Book of World Records by non-stop looting the nation through record scams and now the Anna’s movement has reflected the fact that Congress led UPA Government would have to come out with full proof institutionalised arrangement against the corruption being perpetuated by its ministers. He said that neither Sonia Gandhi nor Prime Minister can now take protection under the facade of coalition compulsions against the World wide outcry against corruption. Earlier the back ward city of Mansa took a giant leap to become a hub of Technical and Medical Education in Punjab when the Punjab Deputy Chief Minister S. Sukhbir Singh Badal today dedicated to the state a Punjab Institute of Technology and a 100 bedded Rs. 70 crore Cancer cum Multi Speciality Hospital.. These centres were expected to be operationalized within one year fulfilling the demand for quality health care, quality technical, nursing and paramedical education. Later on addressing an impressive gathering at local grain market Mr. Badal said that when assumed power, he had promised to the people of Mansa that this sleepy town would be made most developed city of Punjab. He said that besides spending more than 200 crore on upgrading the civic infrastructure of the city and adjoining towns, the SAD-BJP Government has sanctioned second Thermal Plant for Mansa district. He said that with the starting of work on Two Thermal Plants in the vicinity of this town, the economy of this town has seen an upswing, with rates of land in Mansa city and adjoining areas hitting the roof. He said that Congress Government never cared for this region and this area was known for sand dunes. Challenging Capt. Amarinder Singh to come out with detailed facts and figures on the development initiatives of his previous Congress Government, Mr. Badal said that Capt. was a perplexed man as his dream to become Chief Minister of the State for 2nd time would not be fulfilled at least for next 25 years. Mr. Badal said that Congress had failed to initiate a single development project for Malwa region that is why Congress party was decimated in this region during last Lok Sabha Polls. Listing out the various initiatives of SAD-BJP government on education front, Mr. Badal said that due to SAD-BJP government’s focussed approach the Educational Development Index (EDI) of the state has moved from 14th position in the year 2006-07 to 3rd position in the country. He informed that a record sum of Rs. 1441 crore has been earmarked for various education schemes, which was 52 percent more than last year. Besides this, setting up of 123 Adarsh schools, construction of 319 new schools and 18384 additional class rooms, provision of Rs. 60 crore for furniture in all Government Primary Schools, Rs. 26 crore for free education to girls up to class 12 and Rs. 75 crore for providing bicycles to all girl students studying in classes 11th and 12th in all Government schools were other initiatives in school education sector, he added. Mr. Badal said that the new PIT would be just like another campus of PTU where around 4000 engineers would be produced every year. He said that this Rs. 150 crore project would provide a right platform to the rural students as 50% of the total seats would be reserved for them. He also announce to setup for Adarsh Schools two each by Chitkara and Lovely professional University besides Punjabi University College for girls in coming days. He also promised to install RO plant in each village and wards of the cities & towns of the district with in 6 months. Prominent amongst others who spoke on the occasion included Mr.Balwinder Singh Bhunder MP , Mr. Sukhwinder Singh Aulakh and Mr. Harbant Singh Datewas, Mr. Harnam Singh Dhaliwal President Gian Sagar Educatioal and Charitale Trust , Dr. Rajneesh Arora Vice Chancellor PTU, Mr. Dilraj Singh Bhunder President Zila Parishad , Mr. Atamjit Singh President Municipal Council. Mr Suresh Kumar, Principal Secretary, Technical education and Dr Sukhvinder Singh, Vice President were also present on the occasion. CM WRITES RAVI TO ENSURE SPEEDY JUSTICE TO 17 INDIAN NATIONALS FACING DEATH SENTENCE IN UAE
CHANDIGARH APRIL 08: The Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today urged the Union Minister for Overseas Indian Affairs & Civil Aviation Mr. Vayalar Ravi to follow the best possible course in order to save the precious lives of 17 Indian national facing death sentences. In a letter to Mr. Ravi, the Chief Minister highly appreciated the concerted efforts of Ministry of Overseas Indian Affairs & Civil Aviation in defending the trial of 17 Indian national allegedly involved in the murder of Pakistani national in Sharjah High Court. The Chief Minister assured Mr. Ravi that the Punjab government would fully support the initiative taken by his Ministry to save the lives of these Indians on one hand and to relieve their families from mental agony and trauma, which was beyond anybody's imagination on the other. … A First for Punjab Tourism Resurrecting a Dying Traditional Art Form of Rural Punjab
Chandigarh Punjab bagged the coveted National Tourism Award for 2009-10 for the promotion of Rural Tourism Category for its efforts in resurrecting the dying art form of Wooden Inlay work at the Handicrafts Centre situated in Boothgarh village in Hoshiarpur. According to Ms. Geetika Kalha, the Principal Secretary, Tourism Punjab, “This has been a painstakingly planned and implemented project”. The Panchayat of Boothgarh gave three acre of land with the provision for an additional two acres if required for the purpose. Under the UNDP Endogenous programme, the Handicrafts Centre has been constructed with funds from Govt. of India and is fully functional. The centre was inaugurated by Ms. Isher Judge Ahluwalia, Chairperson ICRIER and Ms. Kumud Joshi, Chairperson, KVIC. The Handicraft Centre was handed over on 13th April 2009 to The REEDS, an NGO working with the artisans of the district for promoting the Inlay and Lacquer work of Hoshiarpur district. This organization, under the Chairmanship of Col. O.P. Lamba [Retd], a veteran made the centre a hub of activity. The centre has an AC Seminar Hall, Workshop, artisans rest room, offices and ten display shops and is equipped with modern facilities. Col Lamba, is hopeful that in times to come this centre shall become the main soul of the inlay craft of Punjab. Inlay involves chiseling a space and inserting shaped pieces of acrylic plastic, shell or mother-of- pearl and even other wooden chips bearing colours and textures differing from the basal wood. The craft of inlaying wood on wood is called parquetry and the technique of inlaying any other material on wood is known as marquetry while the former has a global pursuance, the latter is practiced on the Indian sub-continent. The skill of ‘Haathidand’ or ivory work (before the ban of ivory) was brought to Hoshiarpur from Chiniot, by a few craftsmen who settled here. There are sixth generation craftsman who can make excellent pieces but need to be encouraged through sustained handholding. The Wooden inlay handicraft suffered a severe blow after the decline of royal patronage and subsequently ban on the use of ivory. This craft of inlay is now being done with acrylic plastic. Intricate designs are etched on Indian mahogany, a hard wood, called ‘sheesham’ in the vernacular. It is used for making a wide range of items from heavy furniture like sofas, to light weight portable materials. A unique line of products peculiar to Hoshiarpur, are the traditional replicas of rural household appliances like the chakki or flour grinding mill, chatty and madhani or the milk churn, charkha or spinning wheel, as well as the chakla belan or rolling pin etc. Further programmes are intended to bring the youth back to this traditional craft, building in quality control measures so that the products meet international standards; promote mass production of certain products that can be used as corporate gifts; besides creating beautiful artistic pieces that generate a demand and can become collector’s items. A number of innovations like continued inlay, melamine polish, asbestos coating, scripted inlay, brass clasps and locks, besides lining with felt and thermocol and satin are under experimentation. Its an exciting journey of discovery involving the artisans who are presently battling poverty, debt and competition from cheaper alternatives offered by unscrupulous copies in other wood work markets. The products of the Handicraft Centre Woodcraft of Hoshiarpur have been showcased in China, Brazil, Chile, Canada and the US through the help of State and privately sponsored opportunities. The inlay work has been exhibited as pride of place in the Annual International Trade Fair, Pragati Maidan, Delhi for the third year in 2010. The products of inlay have been coveted at Surajkund as well as several other prestigious state level fairs and expos. The Department of Tourism has planned to take up more projects under Rural Tourism Scheme in the coming year. Principal Secretary Tourism has said that at least 5 model Rural Tourism Schemes will be taken up in the year 2011-12 to showcase rich & vibrant rural heritage of Punjab. Under the scheme, thrust will be to promote village tourism as the primary tourism product to spread tourism and its socio-economic benefits to rural and its new geographic regions.
PENSIONERS 75 YEARS OR ABOVE GET LUMP-SUM ARREAR AMOUNT
CHANDIGARH, APRIL 8: Punjab Government has decided that the entire arrear amount of revised pension as per recommendations of the 5th Punjab Pay Commission for pension/family pension/extra ordinary pension admissible to the pensioners who are of the age of 75 years or above as on 1-1-2006 would get lump-sum arrear amount in cash in the month of July, 2011. Disclosing this here today a spokesman of the Punjab Government said that a notification has already been issued in this regard.
CHANDIGARH, APRIL 8: Punjab Government has decided to give the additional five marks to rural candidates for the direct recruitment in its all Departments, Corporations and Boards. A letter in this regard has been issued by the government today. Disclosing this here today a spokesman of Punjab Government said that this decision has been taken according the order of Punjab and Haryana High Court in the civil writ petition of Sudesh Rani V/S Punjab State. It is mentioned here that Punjab and Haryana High Court gave the its verdict in the said case that "consequently, we are of the view that the weightage of 5 additional marks to rural students is fully justified in the facts and circumstances of the case and is not only permitted by the decision of the Supreme Court in Kailash Chand Sharma's case (supra) but the study of the Punjabi university also fulfills the requirements for such weightage set out in the said judgement.", added the spokesman.
First phase of Khalsa Heritage Complex to be dedicated to the Nation on 1st September-Dr Upinderjit Kaur
Chandigarh April 8: The Punjab Government has directed the officers of Anandpur Sahib Foundation to positively complete the interior exhibit designs of the Khalsa Heritage Complex by August 30th so that the first phase of this prestigious project could be dedicated to the Nation on 1st September. This was stated by Dr Upinderjit Kaur Finance Minister Punjab and Chairperson Anandpur Sahib Foundation Executive Committee here in the meeting of the committee. She said that this project was a unique endeavour of the Punjab Government to showcase the different facets and various aspects of 500 years of Sikh history and culture for the future generations about their rich Punjabi culture and glorious traditions. She asked the officers to accomplish its all interior exhibit designs of second phase by 30th November in a transparent and fair manner by ensuring and maintaining its quality and standard also. The Finance Minister said that the architectural grandeur of Khalsa Heritage Complex (KHC), being built at a cost of Rs. 254.84 crore, would enable it to become one of the wonders of the modern world in propagating the basic tenets and philosophy of Sikhism besides the fusion of culture highlighting the concept of Punjab, Punjabi and Punjabiat. Dr Upinderjit Kaur said that free computerized material for downloading and recitation regarding religion, gurbani, history and culture would be provided to the visitors in the Khalsa Heritage Library. To select the relevant literature, books and material an experts committee would also be constituted, she added. Among others Mr S.C Aggrawal Chief Secreatry, Mrs. Geetika Kalha CEO and Principal Secretary Tourism and Cultural Affairs, Mr D.S Guru Principal Secretary to Chief Minister, Mr K.B.S Sidhu Principal Secretary Finance, Mr Jaspal Singh Secretary Expenditure, and Mr Gagandeep Singh Brar Additional Principal Secretary to Chief Minister Punjab also participated in the deliberations. xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx Lokpal Bill drafted by the Congress led UPA Government as “Bhrasht Bachav Bill”. Sukhminderpal Singh Grewal Vice Chairman, Punjab Small Industry and Export Corporation Bathinda, 06.04.2010: Sukhminderpal Singh Grewal, BJP Kissan Morcha, National Secretary and Vice Chairman PSIEC called the Lokpal Bill drafted by the Congress led UPA Government as “Bhrasht Bachav Bill”. Speaking at the raising day of Bharatiya Janta Party at Village Ballianwali, Bathinda, Grewal stated that the Draft Lokpal Bill clearly vindicates that Congress Party is not only pro-Corrupts but also neck deep in Corruption and the above Bill clearly demonstrates that Congress Party wants anything but bringing scammers to book. Grewal stated that in the real sense the Lokpal Bill shall empower people of the country to file complaints against corrupt irrespective of their position whereas Congress led UPA Government have not only restricted Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha Members to file complaints with the Lokpal but also kept Prime Minister out of the purview of the said Bill. Grewal added that bureaucrats are agents of corruption and not even a single scam can ever happen without their connivance and Congress led UPA Government have left no stone unturned to save the skins of their beloved babus who help them in tweaking rules and discretionary powers to facilitate corruption. He further stated that poor Lokpal have been given the role of a clerk who could only receive complaints from the Member of Parliament and report it to the competent authority. Lokpal cannot initiate investigations, prosecute those indicted and have no powers to lodge complaints with the Police. In the real sense, Lokpal shall have powers to prosecute politicians, officials and even judges. Investigations shall get completed within 1 year and trial shall be completed within 1 year. Futher, Losses shall be recovered from the convicts. Grewal aggrieved that this Bill is a mere eyewash and had been drafted with an intent to cover up 2G, Antrix, Adarsh, Lalli, CWG Scams and loosen the noose around the corrupt. Grewal added that Bharatiya Janta Party will take this fight with in the Parliament and if need be to the streets to ensure that Lokpal Bill indeed is a Lokpal Bill and not a “Brasht Bachav Bill”
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