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The Union Minister for Environment and Forest Mr Jairam Ramesh today laid the foundation stone of the multi-crore Bio-remediation project for cleaning of the Budha Nulla. The Rs 16 crore project will be fully funded by the Union Ministry for Environment, Government of India......Read more at the end of this page
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BJP Kisan Morcha starts campaign to visit Grain markets
Sukhminderpal Singh Grewal National secretary, BJPKM
Chandigarh, April 29, 2011
-BJP Kisan Morcha starts campaign to visit Grain markets - Sukhminderpal Singh Grewal National secretary, BJPKM Ludhiana, April 30, 2011 Bharatiya Janata Party Kisan Morcha will launched a Nationwide Campaign to visit Grain Markets across the country to understand and highlight the problems faced by Farmers.
Today I will start this movement from Sahnewal Mandi around 11 km from Ludhiana. We would listen to the problems of Farmers and accordingly approach the State Governments in India, Sukhminderpal Singh Grewal National Secretary of BJPKM, told reporters here.
Talking about the decisions of April 23-24, 2011 two-days National Executive BJP Kisan Morcha meeting at Kisan Bhawan Chandigarh, taken at the meeting, Grewal said: 'All subsidies should be given directly to the farmers and there should be no middleman involved in it. We would soon start working in this direction.'
'We demand a special budget for the agriculture just like we have for railways. Its really sad that in a country like India, where crores of people are dependent on agriculture, we do not have a separate budget for it,' Grewal added.
Grewal said that there was an immediate need to change the definition of 'Natural Calamity' that was considered by the central government while giving compensation to farmers.
'There are many instances when the centre refuses to give compensation when crops are destroyed by rains and hailstorms. We will soon make a proposed draft and demand the constitution of a law to pay appropriate compensation to farmers,' said Grewal.
Grewal said there was a big gap between the minimum support price (MSP) of food grains and the actual cost of production.
Sukhminderpal Singh Grewal is Vice Chairman, Punjab Small Industry and Export Corporation Udyog Bhawan, Sector 17-A, Chandigarh National Secretary, BJP Kisan Morcha Incharge Jammu & Kashmir
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Punjab youth congress to start indefinite hunger strike
Demand chief minister to formulate policy to make Punjab drug free state
Demands set up of drug prevention board
Chandigarh: 30-04-2011
S Ravneet Singh Bittu,
President ( PYC) and MP (Sri Anandpur Saahib
Punjab youth congress will launch indefinite hunger strike from Ludhiana on dated 01-05-2011 against the menace of drugs in the state of Punjab. S Ravneet Singh Bittu, president Punjab youth congress and Member of Parliament (Sri Anandpur Sahib), will lead the hunger strike alongwith number youth activists joining from all over the state. Everyday around 50 youth members will sit on the hunger strike and then they will be replaced by the next 50, while the president will sit continuously till Punjab government commits to give a time frame to eradicate the use of synthetic drugs from the state. This will be a peaceful strike and there will be no speeches.
Elaborating about the need to take this step, S Ravneet Singh Bittu said that under the dynamic leadership and vision of Sh Rahul Gandhi, gen sec (INC) Punjab youth congress had undertaken padyatra against the menace of drugs and female foeticide in which we travelled around 1700 km on foot for 45 days covering every corner of the state but this government remained deaf and dumb. Again with the help of our local activists we caught around fifteen drugs stores in different areas of Punjab who were selling illegal drugs but because of weak laws laid down by the government those are again back to their business. Why the government which talks about developments in china and America just not wake up to the issue of illegal drugs use in the state? Where our younger generation is going with the use of these drugs? Did government try to collect some study or data and then take some concrete step on this issue ?
S Ravneet Singh Bittu asked S Parkash Singh Badal, chief minister of Punjab, that The negative effect of addiction to drugs, alcohol and other intoxicants is already visible in the form of alarming rate of rejection of the youth who fail to qualify the physical fitness tests that are organized from time to time by the Army, Para-military forces and the State Police to make recruitment to the lower ranks. All political parties should come forward on this and work for this social evil which has developed deep roots in our society. Bittu demanded immediate formation of drug prevention board to be headed by retired judge from Punjab and Haryana high court, which should lay down stringent laws for the drug pedllers. This board should be made within time frame and the chief minister should give us commitment for that only then the hunger strike by youth congress will be taken back. One vidhan sabha house committee should be made which daily oversees the development and the steps taken by the government on this issue. Bittu asked the chief minister that does he know “What is the state of drug addicts who quitted drugs, there is no certified drug deaddiction or rehabilitation centre working in the state”. Spending crores of rupees on industrial projects won’t serve the purpose when our younger generation is addicted to this menace.
Bittu further added that this time youth congress has gone for a wakeup call for the youth of Punjab to join us on this issue. We are distributing awareness literature in the colleges and universities of Punjab just to make youth more actively involved with us. Punjab youth congress has started this issue and now will take to its logical end.
All the senior Indian youth congress leaders, Punjab youth congress leaders, workers and senior leaders of the Pradesh congress will also cooperate by sending their groups to participate in the indefinite hunger strike.
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NPA Notification for Vets next week- Ranike Chandigarh , April 30 Punjab Animal Husbandry, Fisheries & Dairy Development Minister, S.
Gulzar Singh Ranike, here today announced that Veterinarians of Animal Husbandry Department would get Non Practising Allowance (NPA) at par with their counterparts in Health Department and notification to this effect would be done in the next week. Mr. Ranike was here to inaugurate a Seminar on Rabies organized to mark the World Veterinary Year 2011 celebrations. The seminar was organized by Punjab State Veterinary Council in collaboration with Animal Husbandry Department, Punjab. As many as 500 Vets from different parts of the State attended the seminar.
Mr. Ranike said that Animal Husbandry infrastructure would get a face lift and the Govt would spend Rs.32.00 crores on refurbishment of Vet Hospitals across the State. He called upon the Vets to tour villages frequently and make the Dairy Farmers aware about the emerging diseases, model management and fundamentals to improve the milk production of livestock so as to improve the economy of the poor farmers. He announced that Government would start cattle fair/mandis in different districts where all the facilities would be provided to the cattle as well as to the cattle owners. He said that the prosperity of the State was directly proportional to the prosperity of the farmers.
On the occasion, MrRanike released “Vets Bulletin”, an official publication of Punjab State Veterinary Officers Association. Besides, a book “MeraBejubanaNal Safar” written by Dr. R.N. Batish, a retired Vet was also released by the Minister.
Speaking on the occasion, Financial Commissioner, Animal Husbandry, Punjab Sh. G.S. Sandhu said that livestock sector contributed 1/3 share of Punjab GDP and hence livestock sector has great potential to bolster the economy of the State. There was no volumetric change expected in agriculture production as it has already reached its plateauwhereaslivestock sector had enormous potential. He stressed on the need to improve the breed of animals and quality of equipment used in Hospitals.
Lt General (Dr.) Narayan Mohanty, President, Veterinary Council of India called upon the Vets to focus on the production also besides treatment.He said meat, milk and eggs produced by the farmers should be free from anti biotic residues and other chemicals so that their quality was comparable to World Standards. The export of such high quality products would fetch good money to the farmers. He underscored the need to have practical oriented research which could have application in the field.
Dr. H.S. Sandha, Director, Animal Husbandry, Punjab and Dr. Darshan Singh, Registrar, Punjab State Veterinary Council and Dr. Ashok Kumar Sharma, President, Punjab State Veterinary Officers Association also spoke on the occasion.
Technical Experts from PGIMER, Chandigarh, Guru AngadDev Veterinary & Animal Sciences University, Ludhiana LalaLajpatRai University of Veterinary & Animal Sciences University, Hissar dwelled on highly infectious disease Rabies which accounted for about 35000 human deaths per year.
Dr. Gurinder Singh Walia,Press Secretary,Punjab State Veterinary Officers Association
BADAL GREETS LABOUR & WORKING CLASS ON MAY DAY
CHANDIGARH APRIL 30: Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today felicitated the labour and working class on the occasion of May Day that symbolizes the historic struggle of labour class globally.
In a message on the eve of May Day, the Chief Minister called upon the working and labour class to join hands to usher in an era of overall development, peace and prosperity in the State. Realizing the significance of this historic day, Mr. Badal exhorted the workers to observe May Day not merely from its historical perspective but should take a solemn pledge to safeguard the rights of the labour and working class.
Meanwhile, the Chief Minister paid rich tributes to all those who had sacrificed their lives for the struggle to secure genuine service conditions at Chicago in 1886.
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Manpreet Singh Badal Message on May Day
Manpreet Singh Badal
My felicitations to you on May day. I earnest wish that you and your families are able to get a good living in the next one year and the years to come. Right now, I know that your condition is pitiable.
The monster of inflation is eating into the incomes of all those who draw wages. We are told that country is registering impressive growth rates, but clearly the gains are being restricted only to a handful few. This explains why, the families of workers in myriad Ludhiana industries, the agricultural labourers in Punjab, the workforce of the sports industry in Jalandhar, the cottage industry worksmen in Amritsar are struggling to keep the wolf off the door.
Whereas inflation ensures that prices of the most basic commodities is going through the roof, the wages and the salaries remain abysmally low. The paltry raises if any depend upon the sweet will of owners and government. This country, we are told is moving ahead, but in view of limited incomes, most workers, are unable to provide quality education and upbringing to their children. The so called government educational institutions have gone defunct and are ill equipped to provide good beginnings to careers.
At work place the condition remains pitiable. While the oligarchs whom you work for are accumulating fleets of fancy cars, the conditions at shop floors where you work remain as miserable as they were perhaps 100 years ago.
Why does Punjab treat its workers so shabbily? After all, it is the resolve and commitment of its workers that allows it to produce bumper crop year after year and to achieve an enviable reputation in international markets when it comes to merchandise exports.
The reason my dear diligent workers is that no one is thinking of you. The country is speeding on the three way superhighway of liberalisation, globalisation and privatisation, but those in the government have forgotten to provide safe pedestrian crossings for the weak and the unempowered.
But let us not grieve anymore. Let us work together to cast off this albatross. Workers of Punjab, I appeal you to express your solidarity and join the movement of People's Party. I promise you a new system that works on meritocracy and not lineage. I promise you a business system where gains are justly shared, where working conditions are safe, modern and hygienic. I assure you a government that provides education of such quality to your wards, that they can be well prepared to make the most of the advantages that a liberalised world has to offer them. I also assure you that in your of distress, when someone dear to you falls ill, he/she is looked after properly in well functioning and well equipped hospital and not the shoddy, insensitive and dilapidated buildings they call government hospitals. I commit to you to do away with a system where you have pseudo subsidies but the price of the essentials is so high that the very sustenance of your families has become a challenge. Trust me, if given a chance, we will ensure that owning a house of your own is not a mirage for a worker the way it is now. Most importantly, we will bring new industrial investment in the state, that would go a long way in improving your wages and living standards.
Punjab needs to change for better... Changes world over have been brought about by the collective will and power of the workers. I need your support in my endeavour. I hope you will repose your faith in me.
Once again, greetings on this seminal day. May god's grace be with you...
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SUKHBIR GREETS THE WORKING CLASS ON THE EVE OF LABOUR DAY
Chandigarh, April 30: Punjab Deputy Chief Minister Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal today extended his heartiest greetings to labour and working class of the state on the eve of May Day observed to mark with historic struggle of labour class throughout the world.
In a message the Deputy Chief Minister recalled the contribution of labour and working class in building up the world class infrastructure in the state to meet the challenges of future. Mr. Badal said that Punjab has a history of smooth labour relationship and the state government always preferred to come out with labour welfare oriented policies in the state.
Paying rich tributes to all those who laid down their lives for ensuring proper service conditions at Chicago in 1886, Mr. Badal said that striving to maintain congenial atmosphere for the working class would be the best tribute to them.
83.29 LAKH TONNES WHEAT PROCURED IN PUNJAB
Chandigarh, April 30: Government agencies and private millers procured more than 83.29 lakh tonnes of Wheat till last evening whereas 97.12 lakh Tonnes wheat procured last year.
Out of total procurement of 8329641 tonnes of wheat in all the procurement centres of Punjab, Government agencies procured 8315225 tonnes of wheat (99.08%) till date whereas private traders procured 14416 tonnes (0.2%) of wheat. Till April 29, PUNGRAIN had procured 12.93 lakh tonnes (15.5%) whereas MARKFED procured 19.94 lakh tonnes (23.9%). PUNSUP procured 18.92 lakh tonnes (22.7%), PSWC procured 9.94 lakh tonnes (11.9%) whereas PAIC was able to procure 9.50 lakh tonnes (11.4 %) of wheat.
The Central Government agency FCI had been able to procure 11.89 lakh tonnes of wheat which was the 14.3% of the total procurement of wheat in the state.
The spokesman added that Ferozepur with 9.44 lakh tonnes of procurement was leading in procurement operations whereas district Sangrur a 9.07 lakh tonnes of procurement was at second slot and District Patiala with 8.08 lakh tonnes of procurement ranked at third position
The State Government has set up 1734 procurement centres and activated its total machinery to ensure smooth procurement of wheat, the spokesman added.
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RETIRED JUDGE OF PUNJAB & HARYANA HIGH COURT TO ASCERTAIN RATIO OF VIMUKAT JATIS IN RESERVATION FOR GOVT. JOBS
BADAL TO SOON TAKE UP THE ISSUE OF INCLUSION OF 31 SUB CASTES OF VIMUKAT JATIS WITH PM
CHANDIGARH APRIL 29:
The Punjab government has set up a one member commission headed by retired judge of Punjab & Haryana High Court Justice Mrs. Kiran Anand Lall to ascertain the ratio of Vimukat Jatis for the reservation in the government jobs.
This was disclosed by Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal in a meeting with a high powered delegation of Vimukat Jatis Front (Punjab) led by its President Jathedar Labh Singh Devinagar here at Punjab Bhawan this afternoon.
Responding to the other demands raised by the delegation, Mr. Badal directed the Chief Secretary to issue instructions to all the Deputy Commissioners to include the word Vimukat Jati along with scheduled castes in the certificate being issued by the concerned authorities at different levels in the state.
The Chief Minister also assured the members of the Vimukat Jatis that he would soon take up the matter with the Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh to seek his personal intervention to expedite the process to include all the 31 sub castes of Sansi in the list of scheduled castes pertaining to the State of Punjab without any further delay. He pointed out that he had already taken up this matter with the Union Minister of Social Justice & Empowerment Mr. Mukul Wasnik for inclusion of these sub castes in the scheduled castes list as in corporated in the Constitutional Order 1950 (as amended from time to time). Mr. Badal lamented that great injustice had been done to the Vimukat Jatis, which were scattered through out the state in small numbers and their sub-castes had not yet been included in the list of scheduled castes.
The Chief Minister also asked the Financial Commissioner Revenue to examine their demand for conferring ownership rights of panchayati lands on the members of the Vimukat Jatis who had been residing their over the past several years. He also assured the delegation that all the eligible beneficiaries belonging to various Vimukat Jatis would be given oldage, widow and disabled pensions on the priority basis as per the existing rules and provisions. He directed the deputy commissioners to ensure the disbursement of these pensions in a hassle free and a transparent manner. He also asked the deputy commissioners to immediately clear the pending proposals for the allotment of land for the constructions of houses on village common land to the members of the Vimukat Jatis, who had already submitted resolutions unanimously adopted by the village panchayats to this effect. The Chief Minister also directed the Secretary Welfare to ensure timely disbursement of scholarship to the children of Vimukat Jatis.
Prominent amongst others who were present in the meeting included Rural Development & Panchayats Minister Mr. Ranjit Singh Brahmpura, Animal Husbandry Minister Mr. Gulzar Singh Ranike, Education Minister Mr. Sewa Sigh Sekhwan, Social Welfare Minister Ch. Swarna Ram and Chief Parliamentary Secretary Mr. Arunesh Shakir, Financial Commissioner Revenue Mr. AR Talwar, Principal Secretary Welfare Mr. R.Venktarattanm, Additional Principal Secretary to Chief Minister Mr. Gaggandip Singh Brar, Director Social Security Child & Women Welfare Mr. Gurkirat Kirpal Singh, Director Welfare of SCs & BCs Punjab Mrs.Indu Mishra and Additional Director Welfare Mr. Lakha Singh
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SERVICES OF EVs TO BE PLACED UNDER SSA
MONTHLY SALARY HIKED BY RS.2000 PER MONTH
CHANDIGARH APIRL 29:
Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today announced to place the services of Education Volunteers (EVs) viz.Sikhya Karmis at the disposal of State Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan Authority and now they would be under the direct control and supervision of SSA instead of village education development committees.
A decision to this effect was taken by Mr. Badal in a meeting with the deputation of Education Volunteers led by its President Mr. Ajmer Singh Aulakh in the presence of Education Minister Mr. Sewa Singh Sekhwan here at Punjab Bhawan this morning.
Disclosing this here today a spokesperson of the Chief Minister's Office said that as many as 7407 EVs would be benefitted with this decision which included 3243 EVs with academic qualification of B.A., 20 B.A.ETT, 1663 B.A.B.Ed and 2481 M.A.B.Ed.
The Chief Minister also announced to hike the salary of EVs by Rs.2000 per month raising it now to Rs.6500, Rs.7250 and Rs.8000 for B.A., B.A.B.Ed and M.A.M.Ed from the existing Rs.4500, Rs.5250 and Rs.6000 per month respectively. Besides, the state government would also bear the tuition fee and training charges of B.Ed for eligible EVs with B.A. to facilitate them to complete B.Ed as an essential qualification under the said scheme of SSA. It was also decided in the meeting to allow the EVs to improve their academic qualification of B.A. or 10+2 to become eligible for the B.Ed and ETT course respectively.
Prominent amongst others who were present in the meeting included Media Advisor to Chief Minister Mr. Harcharan Bains Principal Secretary School Education Mr. C.Roul, Director General School Education Mr. B. Purushartha, Additional Principal Secretary to Chief Minister Mr. Gaggandip Singh Brar, OSD to Chief Minister Mr. NS Sangha and OSD to Education Minister Mr. Darbara Singh Kahlon.
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PUNJAB IN FOR RENEWAL POWER REVOLUTION – SUKHBIR
TARGETS TO HARNESS 300 MW FROM BIOMASS, 400 MW FROM SPEED OF WATER TECHNOLOGY AND 400 MW FROM SOLAR PLANTS
- CHINA TO SUPPLY LATEST TECHNOLOGY IN BIOMASS, SOLAR AND MINI HYDRO SECTOR
- RIGHT TO SERVICE ACT IN NEXT CABINET
- PUNJAB CREATES NEW RECORD BY COMPLETING 2200 WATER WORKS LAST YEAR
- DECRIES DELAY OF NOD TO INFRASTRUCTURE PROJECTS BY CCI
Chandigarh April 29:
Deputy Chief Minister Punjab S. Sukhbir Singh Badal today said that Punjab was in for major revolution in producing power from renewable resources and was aiming to harness 1100 MW power from Biomass, Micro Hydro and Solar sectors.
Speaking to media persons Mr. Badal said that his visit to China was focused on generation of power from 22 lakh ton rice husk, looking for technology to generate power from speed of water in the canals besides transfer of latest solar technology to make it economically viable . Mr. Badal said that Punjab was facing major environmental crises as every season 22 Lakh ton paddy was burnt by farmers that besides creating an environmental problem was causing irreparable damage to productivity of soil. He said that biomass technology available in the country was not meant for pour rice husk as raw material. Chinese company DP Cleantech Limited has patented a technology that can produce bio mass power using rice husk as a raw material. He said that company has developed boilers for combustion of rice straw at a high temperature and high pressure ranging to 540 degree centigrade at 92 bars. He said that Chinese company has agreed to transfer technology to Punjab and set up Two Biomass plants of 15 MW each in the first phase in PPP mode and would maintain and run these plants for next five years. He said that delegation also visited a biomass plant in Xunxien in Hunan Province and a boiler manufacturing plant at Zhingzhong. Mr. Badal said that Punjab was already a pioneer state as for as biomass power was concerned, he said that 32 biomass plants were in various stages of construction. Three plants with 40 MW capacity have already started generating power and three more plants would become operational within next three months and within 12 months all the 32 plants would contribute 300 MW power to the national grid. Mr. Badal said that with the setting up of these plants, farmers were getting additional income of Rs. 7000 to 10000 per acre for their agricultural residue besides contributing power to the state.
Speaking about the new technology seen at International centre for small Hydro power , a UNIDO assisted international centre at Hangzou. Mr. Badal said that by using this technology Punjab would be able to harness power from the velocity of water flowing through canals and rivers. He said that for generating power through new technology the flow of water should be more than 2 meter per second. Mr. Badal said that Punjab was already producing 40 MW power from mini hydro plants whereas China was generating 50000 MW from run of the water technology. Mr. Badal said that PEDA has already started developing of first such half MW plant that would become operational within three months. Mr. Badal said that Punjab was aiming to harness, 400 MW power from new micro hydro technology.
Giving the brief of solar technology Mr. Badal said that his visit to Trina Solar Power in Changzhou, 215 km from Shanghai would help the state to make solar power economically viable. He said that this plant was manufacturing mono/multicrystaline photovoltaic modules with huge manufacturing capacity of one GW. Mr. Badal said that Punjab was contemplating to harness solar power by utilizing roof tops of all government building besides other open spaces available for this purpose.
Mr. Badal said that his visit to china to quite useful as Punjab would step in an era of latest technology in the new power sector that besides utilizing agri waste of the state, would help us to harness power from natural resources like sun and water.
Answering to a query to media Mr. Badal that Right to service Act would come in next meeting of Cabinet and would set new bench mark in the area of administrative reforms.
Mr. Badal said that Punjab Government was focusing on completing all major infrastructure projects within next 8-9 months. He said that sincerity of the Government in execution of projects can be judged from fact that state has completed record 2200 water works in the villages during last year alone and remaining 1651 water works would be operational within next 8 months.
Regretting the step motherly treatment of Congress led UPA Government to Punjab Mr. Badal said that it was matter of great regret that Union Government was not giving its nod to Punjab to increase its grain storage capacity. He said that every year thousands of tones of grains go waste due to open storage. He said that Punjab was witnessing huge storage crises to store newly procured wheat as Union Government has not allocated additional rakes to move old stock from the state.
Mr. Badal regretted that Cabinet Committee on Infrastructure has not met since last one year and Punjab’s major projects were struck awaiting CCI nod. He said that Punjab has already acquired land for major roads including Chanidgarh –Patiala- Bathinda- Ganganagar road but these projects were in limbo due to lack of CCI nod.
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MOHALI TO HAVE A 48 ACRE NATURE PARK
v First city in the state to have 8 mini stadiums costing Rs. 46.5 crore
v Hockey stadium to be completed by 15th August – to host seven nation tournament
v Shopping street to be widened at the cost of Rs. 8 crore
v 8 Foot over bridges to facilitate pedestrians
v 600 EWS houses to be ready by December this year
SAS Nagar April 28:
S. Sukhbir Singh Badal, Deputy Chief Minister Punjab today sanctioned a series of projects worth Rs. 113 crore besides giving instructions to the administration to put ongoing projects on fast track.
Reviewing the progress of the ongoing development projects in a high level meeting, Mr. Badal sanctioned a nature park to be constructed on a peace on land measuring 48 acres in Sector 62 and desired that renowned landscape planners be engaged for planning this world class garden. Rs. 3 crore was set aside for the first phase of the garden.
Meeting the long outstanding demand of youth of the city to have mini stadiums, Mr. Badal sanctioned Rs. 46.5 crore for construction of 8 mini stadiums that would help to nurture sports talent at the grass root level. With this Mohali would have the distinction to have only city in the state having 8 mini stadiums besides One Cricket stadium and another upcoming Astroturf Hockey Stadium. Mr. Badal asked GMADA to complete hockey stadium by 15th August so that seven nation tournament could be organized there.
Shopping street of Mohali starting from phase VII market going through 3B1, 3A and phase IV and V dividing road is set to get livelier with Mr. Badal sanctioning Rs. 8 crore for the widening of this shopping corridor and asked GMADA to complete this by September this year. For ensuring smooth traffic and safety of pedestrians, Mr. Badal sanctioned Rs. 2 crore for construction of foot over bridges on shopping streets that would also be completed by September this year.
Asking Municipal Corporation to ensure portable water supply during summers, Mr.Badal said that all the new 24 tube wells should remain functional and PSEB would be asked to provide uninterrupted power supply to all tube wells especially during summers. Reviewing the progress of ongoing road projects Mr. Badal said that work should be expedited on widening Balongi road and Power Corporation be asked to expedite underground power supply on this road as Rs. 10 crore has already been deposited for this purpose. He also sanctioned four laning of the road opposite Radhu Swani Satsang Ghar that links to Sohana to make traffic on this stretch on this road.
Giving a bonanza to the BPL population of the city Mr. Badal sanctioned the grant of Rs. 24 crore for construction of 600 EWS houses.
Prominent amongst other who were present in the meeting included Mr. Viswajeet Khanna, Principal Secretary to Deputy Chief Minister; Mr. Sarvjeet Singh Chief Administrator GMADA and Mr. Varun Rujam Deputy Commissioner Mohali.
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ADARSH SCHOOLS MAKE GOOD PROGRESS -- SUKHBIR
- AUTHORIZED TO RUN VOCATIONAL COURSES
- EACH PRIVATE UNIVERSITY ALLOTTED FIVE ADARSH SCHOOLS
- ERRING PARTIES TO FACE CANCELLATION
Chandigarh April 28:
Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal Deputy Chief Minister Punjab today reviewed the progress of Adarsh School project and authorized them to run vocational courses in the evening to take vocational education to the remote villages.
In a high level meeting Mr. Badal expressed satisfaction over substantial progress made by this ambitious and pet project of S. Parkash Singh Badal Chief Minister Punjab. The Deputy Chief Minister said that he was already receiving queries from different states who wanted to replicate this model in their states. In the meeting it was informed that out of 124 Adarsh Schools 10 have been allotted to Punjab School Education Board, 7 have been allotted under RMSA where as 51 has been allotted to various education providers in PPP mode. It was informed in the meeting that 10 schools of PSEB were already functioning, where as four each allotted under RMSA and PPP mode have become functional. The Secretary Education informed that construction of 18 Adarsh Schools out of which 15 were under PPP mode and three under RMSA were in advanced stage of construction. He said that for remaining sites lease deeds have been executed in the case of 35 schools where as in remaining 16 cases lease deeds could not be executed due to field level problems.
Expressing concern over tardy progress made by certain parties in execution of these projects, Mr. Badal said that party that do not show substantial progress in completion of these projects should remain prepared for cancellation coupled with punitive actions. He said that each private university that have been allotted five Adarsh Schools in their command areas must complete and start these projects by June this year and in the mean time they should go ahead with admissions and hold the classes at alternative sites. He directed the Deputy Commissioners to personally monitor the progress of these projects and remove hindrances within five days where lease deeds could not be executed due to field level problems. He said that in the case of any legally disputed sites, the Deputy Commissioner was at full freedom to allot in any educationally backward area.
Giving the major relief to the Adarsh Schools Mr. Badal asked Secretary Education to put up a proposal to allow vocational courses in the evening shifts of Adarsh Schools. He said that with this besides making optimum utilization of infrastructure, it would also percolate quality job oriented education in the remote villages of Punjab. The Secretary Education was asked to put up the proposal on revenue sharing model. Appreciating certain societies like Baba Ishwar Singh Educational Society and Bharti Enterprise, Mr. Badal said that other private players should learn from their dedication and commitment.
The schools that have become functional include that in Dhardeo Buttter ( Amritsar ) , Nandgarh ( Bathinda) , Shahzada Sant Singh ( Ferozepur ), Khamba, Jawahar Singh Wala ( Moga) , Bhagu , Sirwali Bhangewala, Kotbhai and Raniwala ( All in Mukatsar) , Khatkar Kalan ( SBS Nagar). Seven Schools under RMSA already functioning included Bhukan Khan Wala ( Ferozepur ) , Bhikhari Wala ( Gurdaspur) , Canal Colony ( Bathinda ) , Valer Khurd ( Tarantarn) , Uccha ( Kapurthala ), Bal Sarai ( Amritsar ) and Sports School Ghudda (Bathinda). Adarsh School in Fatubilla and Chogawan in Amritsar district started functioning this year and remaining Nine schools under PPP mode would be completed within three months.
Besides Deputy Commissioners from all the districts Education Minister S. Sewa Singh Sekhwan, Chief Secretary Mr. S.C.Agrawal, Principal Secretary to Deputy Chief Minister Mr. Viswajeet Khanna ,Principal Secretary Education Mr. C.Roul and representatives of PPP companies and private Universities participated in the meeting.
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71.31 LAKH TONNES WHEAT PROCURED IN PUNJAB
Chandigarh, April 28: Government agencies and private millers procured more than 71.31 lakh tonnes of Wheat till last evening whereas 94.91 lakh Tonnes wheat procured last year.
Out of total procurement of 7131462 tonnes of wheat in all the procurement centres of Punjab, Government agencies procured 71.19 lakh tonnes of wheat (99.08%) till date whereas private traders procured 12204 tonnes (0.2%) of wheat. Till April 27, PUNGRAIN had procured 10.82 lakh tonnes (15.2%) whereas MARKFED procured 17.18 lakh tonnes (24.1%). PUNSUP procured 16.47 lakh tonnes (23.1%), PSWC procured 8.52 lakh tonnes (11.9%) whereas PAIC was able to procure 8.37 lakh tonnes (11.7 %) of wheat.
The Central Government agency FCI had been able to procure 9.81 lakh tonnes of wheat which was the 13.8% of the total procurement of wheat in the state.
The spokesman added that Sangrur with 8.55 lakh tonnes of procurement was leading in procurement operations whereas district Ferozepur with 7.93 lakh tonnes of procurement was at second slot and District Patiala with 7.89 lakh tonnes of procurement ranked at third position
The State Government has set up 1734 procurement centres and activated its total machinery to ensure smooth procurement of wheat, the spokesman added
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PUNJAB RELEASES 6 PERCENT DA FOR EMPLOYEES AND PENSIONERS W.E.F.1.1.20011
CHANDIGARH April 27:
Punjab Government has released 6% Additional Dearness Allowance (ADA) installment with effect from January 01, 2011 on the Central pattern to its employees and pensioners.
According to a notification issued by the Punjab Government here today, with this decision present 45 percent dearness allowance would be increased to 51 percent on the basic pay w.e.f.1.1.2011. The government has also decided to pay the increased DA in cash w.e.f. 1.5.2011 whereas the arrears w.e.f.1.1.2011 to 30.4.2011 would be credited to their GPF Accounts. Retired Employees of Punjab Government would get the same in cash w.e.f.1.1.2011, the spokesman added.
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ROTATIONAL IRRIGATION PROGRAMME FOR KHARIF SEASON ANNOUNCED
Chandigarh, April 27:
The Irrigation Department, Punjab has announced the Rotational Programme for irrigation for the Kharif Season through Canal water from 28-04-2011 to 05-05-2011. The channels of Sirhind Canal System would run on the priority basis from Bathinda Branch, Bist Doab, Sidhwan Branch, Abohar Branch and Patiala feeder respectively.
Disclosing this here today a spokesman of the irrigation department said that direct distributaries of Bhakra Main Line in group 'A' being in the channels of first preference will run to their indent and balance water supplies available will be utilized in Ghaggar Branch and its off taking channels i.e Ghaggar Branch and Patiala Minor in Group 'B' respectively.
The spokesman further said that all the direct distributaries of Sirhind Feeder in group 'A' being in the First preference will run to their indent and balance water supplies available would be utilised in Abohar Branch off-taking from Sirhind Feeder and its distributaries/Minors in Group 'B'.
The spokesman also said that the channels off taking from upper Bari Doab Canal i.e. Lahore Branch with its distributaries being in the channels of first Preference would run to their indent and balance water would be supplies water available in Main Branch Lower, Kasur Branch Lower, Sabraon Branch with their distributaries respectively.
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64.55 LAKH TONNES WHEAT PROCURED IN PUNJAB
Chandigarh, April 27: Government agencies and private millers procured more than 64.55 lakh tonnes of Wheat till last evening whereas 93.52 lakh Tonnes wheat procured last year.
Out of total procurement of 6455309 tonnes of wheat in all the procurement centres of Punjab, Government agencies procured 64.46 lakh tonnes of wheat (99.09%) till date whereas private traders procured 9229 tonnes (0.1%) of wheat. Till April 26, PUNGRAIN had procured 9.63 lakh tonnes (14.9%) whereas MARKFED procured 15.65 lakh tonnes (24.3%). PUNSUP procured 15.15 lakh tonnes (23.5%), PSWC procured 7.75 lakh tonnes (12.0%) whereas PAIC was able to procure 7.54 lakh tonnes (11.7 %) of wheat.
The Central Government agency FCI had been able to procure 8.71 lakh tonnes of wheat which was the 13.5% of the total procurement of wheat in the state.
The spokesman added that Sangrur with 8.09 lakh tonnes of procurement was leading in procurement operations whereas district Patiala a 7.80 lakh tonnes of procurement was at second slot and District Ferozepur with 6.99 lakh tonnes of procurement ranked at third position
The State Government has set up 1734 procurement centres and activated its total machinery to ensure smooth procurement of wheat, the spokesman added.
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Kalia Announces New Mining Policy
Chandigarh April 26:-
Industries Minister Punjab, Mr. Manoranjan Kalia today announced the State Government's New Mining Policy aimed at bringing more transparency in the auctioning process with an effort to curb the pilferage and contain the escalation of the market rates of the sand. The Punjab Government has also decided to hold e-auction for the contract period for three years for quarries having an area less than 5 hectares. For the quarries having an area more than 5 hectares, environmental clearance was required, said the Minister.
Addressing the media persons here at Punjab Bhawan, Mr. Kalia said that the government has also decided to hold e-auction of the sale points in the cities while fixing the maximum retails price of the sand has been taken. To check the illegal mining in the state, Mr. Kalia said that the joint action committees at the district levels have been constituted which would closely monitor the entire process. Adding further the Minister said that if the contractor charged more than the prescribed rate or excessive mining was done then he was liable to action under Essential Commodities Act.
The Minister also said that royalty would be given to panchayts @ Rs 20/- per ton which has been increased from Rs. 10/- per ton. It has also been decided to abolish the tax levied on the sand by the Excise Department, but the entry tax would be imposed on the sand coming from outside the state, said Mr. Kalia. The leveling of land etc. within the village boundary, if required, would be granted by the Deputy Commissioner of the distinct concerned in consultation with the Industries Department, said Mr. Kalia
Mr. S.S. Channy Principal Secretary Industries and Commerce was also present during the Media interaction.
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Sh. Ttikshan Sud, Forest Minister Punjab
CHANDIGARH, APRIL 26:
Sh. Ttikshan Sud, Forest Minister Punjab held a meeting with the Orissa Forest Department Representatives at Nandan Kanan Zoological park on 24-04-11 to give a push to coordination between forest deptt. of Punjab and Orissa late evening, it was decided in principle to carry out exchange of animals for in-situ conservation between M.C. Zoological Park and Nandan Kanan Zoological Park. The Nandan Kanan Zoo will transfer a female white tiger to Chhatbir which already has a male white tiger but it is presently without a white mate. In exchange Chhatbir zoo will prepare a proposal for transfer of Chinkaras, white bucks and Sarus cranes to Nandan Kanan Zoo as these animals are breeding well at Chhatbir. Presently Chhatbir zoo has one male Zebra without a mate while Nandan Kanan has female zebras. It was therefore, decided in principle that Punjab can loan the male zebra to Nandan Kanan on a short term basis and in lieu obtain a female for display from Nandan Kanan. In case of successful breeding at Nandan Kanan, the offspring will be shared between the two states.
Mr. Sud said that he would also direct the Chief Wildlife Warden, Punjab to explore other possibilities of cooperation with Orissa and quickly add an aquarium section at Chhatbir zoo on the lines of Nandan Kanan as it is very good attraction.
It is worth recalling that previously Mr. Tikshan Sud personally met Chief Minister of Gujrat Sh. Narendra Modi who after this meeting agreed that his state will transfer Asiatic lions for the Lion Safari at Chhatbir zoo. A pair of these Asiatic lions was recently released at the Chhatbir lion safari. This new addition augurs well for the state as it will help to establish a genetically pure breeding stock of Asiatic lions at Chhatbir, increasing its conservation value, display value and animal exchange value for future programme for the State of Punjab.
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56.22 LAKH TONNES WHEAT PROCURED IN PUNJAB
Chandigarh, April 26: Government agencies and private millers procured more than 56.22 lakh tonnes of Wheat till last evening whereas 91.60 lakh Tonnes wheat procured last year.
Out of total procurement of 5622354 tonnes of wheat in all the procurement centres of Punjab, Government agencies procured 56.14 lakh tonnes of wheat (99.09%) till date whereas private traders procured 7855 tonnes (0.1%) of wheat. Till April 25, PUNGRAIN had procured 8.32 lakh tonnes (14.8%) whereas MARKFED procured 13.62 lakh tonnes (24.2%). PUNSUP procured 13.24 lakh tonnes (23.6%), PSWC procured 6.73 lakh tonnes (12.0%) whereas PAIC was able to procure 6.68 lakh tonnes (11.9 %) of wheat.
The Central Government agency FCI had been able to procure 7.53 lakh tonnes of wheat which was the 13.4% of the total procurement of wheat in the state.
The spokesman added that Patiala with 7.65 lakh tonnes of procurement was leading in procurement operations whereas district Sangrur a 7.57 lakh tonnes of procurement was at second slot and District Ferozepur with 5.79 lakh tonnes of procurement ranked at third position
The State Government has set up 1734 procurement centres and activated its total machinery to ensure smooth procurement of wheat, the spokesman added.
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CHANDIGARH, APRIL 26:
BADAL STRONGLY PLEADS FOR SETTING UP ICAR REGIONAL RESEARCH STATIONS IN PUNJAB
CM ASKS ICAR TO ADOPT RESULT ORIENTED APPROACH TO RESOLVE
AGRICULTURE ISSUES OF PUNJAB
CHANDIGARH APRIL 25
Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today urged the Indian council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) to establish Regional Research Stations in the state to boost the agricultural, dairy and fisheries sectors in the state.
Mr. Badal was presiding over a high level meeting of ICAR here at Punjab Bhawan, which was organized specifically to discuss the problems concerning Punjab's agricultural dairying and fisheries sectors.
Expressing deep concern over the present status of depletion of soil fertility and decline of ground water levels in Punjab, Mr. Badal mentioned that to ensure food security of the country, Punjab had over utilized its natural resources consequently the crop production costs were increasing and farming became non profitable business. Emphasizing the strong research support to the small and marginal farmers as the need of the hour for their survival, Mr. Badal asked the ICAR to adopt result oriented approach in resolving all the agriculture issues of Punjab through establishing these research stations as early as possible.
Mr. Badal further added that productivity of current varieties of wheat and rice had reached a plateau and research to develop higher yielding verities both of wheat and short duration rice was essential that could be tolerant to pests and diseases besides adaptable present climate change. He also mentioned that research centres would further help the state in diversification through recommending suitable low water consuming alternate crops like pulses, oil seeds, vegetables and fruits especially citrus. He also urged the GoI that allocation of funds under the RKVY scheme must be suitably redesigned for the state with sympathetic view to improve the growth rate of agriculture in Punjab. Despite our contribution to the national food security, the state agriculture had not been given due support by Govt. of India (GoI) for improving its sustainability and developing technologies for higher returns to the peasantry.
Taking part in the deliberations, eminent agricultural economist, MP (Rajya Sabha) and former Director General ICAR Dr. M.S. Swaminathan, also supported the issues raised by the Mr. Badal. He informed that he was visiting Mandies to observe the procurement arrangements of wheat and filled with the emotions of 'Ecstasy' to see the procurement of wheat, as large quantity of wheat was arriving in Mandies of Punjab, which was known as food bowl state of the country but at the same time feeling of 'Agony' also appeared to see the poor storage arrangements. He assured the Chief Minister to take this matter with GoI as Mr. Badal requested him.
Earlier, Director General ICAR Dr. S. Ayyappan honoured Mr. Badal and Mr. Swaminathan and welcomed all the dignitaries.
On this occasion Principal Secretary Animal husbandry, Dairy development and Fisheries Mr. G.S. Sandhu presented a power point presentation on the various issues related to the Punjab Animal Husbandry, Dairy Development and fisheries department, Deputy Director General (NRM) ICAR Dr. A.K. Singh on 'Soil & Water Conservation and related issues of Natural resource management', Deputy Director General (Crop science) ICAR Dr. swapan Kumar on 'Diversification of rice area into other crops in Punjab', Deputy Director General (Animal Science) ICAR Dr. K.M.L. Pattak on 'Dairy Development in Punjab', Director General ICAR Dr. S. Ayyappan on 'Fisheries in Saline and Water-logged areas' and Vice Chancellors GADVASU Dr.V.K. Taneja presented a power point presentation on 'Issues affecting dairy and fisheries in Punjab'.
Prominent amongst those who participates in the discussion included Chairman Punjab State Farmers' Commission Mr. G.S. Kalkat, Punjab Chief Secretary Mr. S.C. Agrawal, Financial Commissioner Development Mr. N.S. Kang, Deputy Director General ICAR Dr. J.S. Samra, Director Agriculture Mr. B.S. Sidhu, Director Animal Husbandry Dr. H.S. Sandha and Vice Chancellors PAU Dr. M.S. Kang.
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PUNJAB TO GENERATE SOLAR POWER BY UTILIZING ROOF TOPS OF GOVERNMENT BUILDINGS -SUKHBIR
- visits solar panel plant in China
- China visits a leap forward for tapping non-conventional energy
Chandigarh, April 25: Punjab government is contemplating the proposal to utilize the roof tops of all government buildings in the state to generate power by installing state of art photo voltaic solar panels.
Punjab Deputy Chief Minister Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal took this decision during his visit to Science and Education town, Changzhou on the last leg of his tour to China. Mr. Badal was shown 1.09 MW solar power roof top power plant installed in the Research and Development hub of Changzhou University Campus that was meeting the total requirement of the University Township.
Impressed by the idea Mr. Badal asked Secretary Science and Technology Mr. Viswajeet Khanna to explore the possibility of utilizing every roof top of government building in first phase to tap solar energy for deficient power sectors. He said that after success in government buildings this idea could be replicated in private, industrial and commercial buildings. Mr. Khanna informed the Deputy Chief Minister said that Punjab government has already issued instructions for making solar water heating systems in all government buildings mandatory.
Earlier Mr. Badal also visited Trina Solar, a plant manufacturing solar PV panels located in Changzhou located in Jiangsu province of China. It was informed that it was the largest Solar PV panels manufacturing plant in the country and company was making mono and multi crystalline solar panels. The capacity of plant to 1 GW and was expanded to 1.9 GW by the year end.
The delegation shared the knowledge for bringing down the cost of solar PV panels so that manufacture of solar energy to be made economically viable.
Summing up the tour to China the Punjab Deputy Chief Minister said that this tour was a leap forward towards our aim to tap 10% of the total generated power from the non-conventional energy sector. He said that the team was educated regarding the latest technologies in Bio-mass power sector that besides utilizing 22 million tonnes of rice husk would produce biomass power with minimum wastage of energy. He said that collaboration announced by UN agency with Punjab to setup mini hydro plant to generate clean power from flow of rivers and canals would be the game changer in the energy scenario.
The Deputy Chief Minister was accompanied by Member of Parliament Ms.Harsimrat Kaur Badal, Mr. Harcharan Bains, Media Advisor to the Punjab Chief Minister, Mr. Viswajeet Khanna, Secretary Science, Technology, Environment and Non Conventional Energy Resources, Mr. TPS Sidhu, Chief Executive, Punjab Energy Development Agency and Mr. M P Singh, Joint Director PEDA.
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ANANDPUR SAHIB FOUNDATION’S NEW CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER DR KARAMJIT SINGH SRA TAKES CHARGE
Chandigarh, April 25
The mirror of Punjab’s rich heritage and legacy, world renowned Khalsa Heritage Project’s first phase would be dedicated to people of Punjab timely. Anandpur Sahib Foundation’s new chief executive officer Dr Karamjit Singh Sra said this while taking over the charge of foundation today. He took over the office in afternoon at the sector 38 office of foundation in Chandigarh. He said that Punjab’s chief minister Prakash Singh Badal and finance minister Dr Upinderjit Kaur is spearheading the project, whose first phase would soon be completed. “I would try my best to expedite the ongoing work. There is no dearth of funds in completing the project,” he said. He said that as per the Punjab Govenrment’s decision, there are two divisions of the first phase of Khalsa Heritage project, which would be commissioned as per the deadlines given. “According to the wishes of Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Prakash Singh Badal, the project would soon be completed. I have already convened meetings of various departments in the foundation and have passed necessary instructions to complete work expeditiously,” he said. Sra added that he would soon visit the work going on heritage project in Anandpur Sahib. The department officials apprised Sra of the pace of work.
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Punjab State stands 3rd in e-Panchayat project at national level
Chandigarh April 25: On 2nd National Panchayati Raj Divas organized at New Delhi, the Punjab state has bagged third prize for outstanding achievements taken in the implementation of e-panchayats project in the State. This was disclosed by a spokesman of Punjab Rural Development and Panchayats department. On the occasion Mr. Jagpal Singh Sandhu Financial Commissioner Rural Development and Panchayats Punjab has received a citation, trophy and Rs. 20 lacs prize money for this award on behalf of the State Government.
This National Panchayats day was celebrated by the Union Ministry of Panchayati Raj, at Vigyan Bhawan New Delhi where Prime Minister S. Manmohan Singh, UPA chairperson Mrs. Sonia Gandhi and Union Minister of Panchayati Raj and Rural Development Mr. Vilas Rao Deshmukh awarded the prizes to different states for their distinguished achievements in different areas of Panchayati Raj and emphasized the need to follow the “Roadmap for Panchayats” released by the Prime Minister.
Disclosing this S. Jatinder Singh Brar, project director e-panchayats told that under the dynamic leadership of S. Ranjit Singh Brahampura Rural Development and Panchayats Minister Punjab the desired results would show results within next two months.
He further added that e-panchayat project envisages maintaining online accounts available in public domain, creation of websites for three tiers of Panchayati Raj Institutions, creation of profiles for each panchayat, which would pave the way for enhancing accountability and transparency in functioning of panchayats and ensure inclusive growth through public participation.
He added that a large number of dignitaries across the country associated with panchayati raj graced this occasion. Mrs. Sukhpreet Kaur Sandhu, Mrs. Raminder Kaur Butter, Deputy Director, faculty members of SIRD, other officials of the department and a large number of elected representatives of three tiers of PRIs from Punjab participated in the National Panchayati Raj Divas celebrations.
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47.17 LAKH TONNES WHEAT PROCURED IN PUNJAB
Chandigarh, April 25: Government agencies and private millers procured more than 47.17 lakh tonnes of Wheat till last evening whereas 90.32 lakh Tonnes wheat procured last year.
Out of total procurement of 4717208 tonnes of wheat in all the procurement centres of Punjab, Government agencies procured 47.10 lakh tonnes of wheat (99.09%) till date whereas private traders procured 6755 tonnes (0.1%) of wheat. Till April 24, PUNGRAIN had procured 6.81 lakh tonnes (14.4%) whereas MARKFED procured 11.42 lakh tonnes (24.2%). PUNSUP procured 11.26 lakh tonnes (23.9%), PSWC procured 5.66 lakh tonnes (12.0%) whereas PAIC was able to procure 5.69 lakh tonnes (12.1 %) of wheat.
The Central Government agency FCI had been able to procure 6.24 lakh tonnes of wheat which was the 13.2% of the total procurement of wheat in the state.
The spokesman added that Patiala with 7.37 lakh tonnes of procurement was leading in procurement operations whereas district Sangrur a 6.91 lakh tonnes of procurement was at second slot and District Ferozepur with 4.47 lakh tonnes of procurement ranked at third position
The State Government has set up 1734 procurement centres and activated its total machinery to ensure smooth procurement of wheat, the spokesman added.
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CM ASK GMADA TO SOON FORMULATE A POLICY TO ALLOT PLOTS TO THE OUSTEES IN 76-80 SECTORS
FOUNDATION STONE OF HOUSING COMPLEX FOR EWS LAID AT SANETA
DISBURSES 2.30 CRORE AS BONUS AND DIVIDEND TO MILK SOCIETIES
SAS NAGAR/Chandigarh APRIL 25:
Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today directed the GMADA to work out a comprehensive scheme for the allotment of plots to the oustees whose land had been acquired for the 76-80 sectors in Mohali.
Addressing a gathering at a function for the allotment of plots and disbursement of cheques to the weaker sections at village Saneta, Mr. Badal also exhorted the big colonizers and builders to reserve at least 10% of land to provide houses to the economically weaker sections. He distributed cheques worth Rs.80 lac to 160 beneficiaries. Mr. Badal pointed out that the land pooling scheme launched by the SAD-BJP government during its current tenure had fetched lucrative prices of the land acquired for the development purposes from the farmers.
Showing satisfaction after laying the foundation stone for the construction of low cost houses for the economically weaker sections, Mr. Badal announced to double the allocation of funds earmarked for the scheme from Rs.50,000 to Rs.1 lac per household in addition to Rs.10,000 for latrine. The Chief Minister also asked the GMADA to set up a dispensary, a community centre and a primary school in the vicinity of the upcoming housing complex for the economically weaker section. Mr. Badal desired that this complex should be developed as a model which could be replicated in other village also. He also urged the people to plant a tree in front of every house so that the environment in and around the complex was pollution free and eco-friendly and to inculcate a habit of cleanness and hygiene.
Towards a step for empowerment of the women, Mr. Badal said that his government had taken several initiatives in the budget for the year 2011-12 in this regard. He announced that all the girl students studying in Class 11th and 12th would be provided with free bicycle positively by August 15, 2011. He also announced that SAD-BJP had already launched a scheme to provide financial help of Rs.15000 as a fixed deposit at the time of the birth of girl child.
Mr. Badal categorically said that the unprecedented development during the four years of SAD-BJP alliance as compared to 40 years regime of Congress was a testimony to its commitment to make Punjab as a front runner state in the country. He said that it was our sincere endeavour to cherish every one’s aspirations within our limited resources. He however, said that with the prudent financial management coupled with bold economic initiatives has already put our derailed economy on sound footing.
Lashing at Congress led UPA government at Centre, Mr. Badal said that the Congress party had always meted out a step motherly treatment to Punjabis by denying them their justified share in central funds and schemes. He blamed Congress for its inefficiency to tackle the problems faced by the common man in a holistic manner. He said Congress which claimed to be a votary of poor man by raising hollow slogans like “Congress Ka Hath Garib Ke Sath” were merely sham as it was shedding crocodile tears where as in reality it was showing complete insensitivity towards his genuine problems.
Mr. Badal described the recent corruption in the UPA government especially after the exposure of scams like 2G spectrum, CWG and Adrash Housing Society synonymous with Congress and added that Congress and corruption were the two sides of the same coin.
Speaking on the occasion, Chairman District Planning Committee Mohali Mr. NK Sharma appreciated the personal initiative taken by Mr. Badal to develop Mohali as the ultra-modern city of the state. He urged the Chief Minister to immediately implement the scheme of land pooling in the sectors 89-93 and up-grade the Middle school to High school at village Saneta. He said that nearly Rs.60 crore was being spent on the overall development of villages in Mohali district.
Later addressing the Media persons, Mr. Badal said that his government was ready to strengthen the institution of Lokpal as per the guidelines/recommendations of the Centre. He however, said that Punjab had already set up the Lokpal and added only those people should afraid from this institution who were indulging in rampant corruption and other malpractices. He also strongly pleaded the case to bring back the black money stashed in the Swiss Banks and asked the Centre to show political will to not only retrieve this black money in the country but also to utilize it judiciously for the welfare of the poor and needy.
To another question regarding the prospects of Manpreet’s PPP, Mr. Badal said that it was not a political party but a ‘pack of opportunists’ as the most of the leaders who have joined it so far had been denied party tickets or had been expelled from the parties. He said that SAD was not bothered with the ongoing membership campaign of PPP, but made its crystal clear that only SAD-BJP alliance would regain power on the basis of its overall performance especially on development front.
Later the Chief Minister disbursed Rs.2.30 crore as bonus and dividend amongst the societies out of the earning of milk plant Mohali for the year 2009-10. In his address Mr. Badal appreciated the contribution made by Milkfed Punjab, Milk Plant Mohali for improving the economic lot of the milk producers. He motivated the farmers to produce quality milk so that finished products could be manufactured of high quality to ensure remunerative prices to them.
On the occasion, the Chief Minister also laid the foundation stone of Verka House to be constructed by Milk Plant. He announced a grant of Rs. 10 Lakh for this Verka House. He lauded this initiative and was apprised that with the construction of Verka House, the affiliated milk producer farmers supplying milk to milk plant, Mohali would get the benefit of organizing their social functions at a cheaper rate. He emphasized to provide better veterinary services to the farmers.
Prominent amongst others who were present on the occasion included Chief Parliamentary Secretary Cooperation Mr. Jagdip Singh Nakai, Advisor to Chief Minister Dr. Daljeet Singh Cheema, Chairman Milkfed Mr. GS Babehali, MLA Morinda Mr. Ujjagar Singh Badali, MLA Banur Mr. Jasjit Singh Bunny, Youth Akali Leader Mr. Harsukhinder Singh Buby Badal, Financial Commissioner Cooperation Mr. Suresh Kumar, MD Milkfed Mr. Jewandeep Singh Kahlon, Chairman Milk Plant Mohali Mr. Parminder Singh Chalaki and General Manager Milk Plant Mohali Balbir Singh.
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ENSURE PROTECTION OF PUNJABIS IN AUSTRALIA- SUKHBIR URGES PM
Chandigarh, April 24 : Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal, President Shiromani Akali Dal and Deputy Chief Minister Punjab today urged Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh to use every possible diplomatic means to ensure protection of Punjabis living in Australia and other countries.
In a communiqué to Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh the SAD President said that recent killing of Rajpura youth Lakhwinder Singh in Melbourne on Thursday night has confirmed the fear that Punjabis were increasingly becoming victims of racial attacks since the year 2009. He said that it was matter of great concern that there were more than 100 racial attacks on Punjabis since last two years and Australian government has not taken any deterrent step to stop these attacks.
Urging Prime Minister to take up this issue strongly with the Australian counterpart Mr. Badal said that security of immigrant was the sole responsibility of the host country as immigrants were contributing to the economy of the Australia working day and night there. He said that it matter of great concern that Punjabis were becoming easy target of racial attacks in Australia, UK, USA and Philippines . said that Union government’s weak kneed policies were responsible for spurt in attacks on Punjabis.
The SAD President said that External affairs Ministry has failed in basic objective to protect the interest of Indians in other countries. He said that what to call of conveying a stern message to Australia, the Union External Affairs Minister has even not summoned Australian High Commissioner after Thursday attack on Lakhwinder Singh to show the displeasure of Union government. . He said that it was matter of great regret that State Minister for External Affairs representing Punjab has failed to protect the interests of Punjabis living in other countries and was keeping mum on this issue.
Mr. Badal said that there was lot of resentment in Punjab on failure of Union government to protect the interest of Punjabis living in other countries and Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh should take up this issue with Australian Prime Minister so that guilty for racial attack on Punjabis could be given exemplary punishment.
He said that Prime Minister should also consider the possibility of sending a high powered all party delegation of MPs to Australia to inculcate a sense of security amongst Punjabis living in Australia and also to convey the resentment of Indian public on these increasing racial attacks on Punjabis
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47.17 LAKH TONNES WHEAT PROCURED IN PUNJAB
Chandigarh, April 25: Government agencies and private millers procured more than 47.17 lakh tonnes of Wheat till last evening whereas 90.32 lakh Tonnes wheat procured last year.
Out of total procurement of 4717208 tonnes of wheat in all the procurement centres of Punjab, Government agencies procured 47.10 lakh tonnes of wheat (99.09%) till date whereas private traders procured 6755 tonnes (0.1%) of wheat. Till April 24, PUNGRAIN had procured 6.81 lakh tonnes (14.4%) whereas MARKFED procured 11.42 lakh tonnes (24.2%). PUNSUP procured 11.26 lakh tonnes (23.9%), PSWC procured 5.66 lakh tonnes (12.0%) whereas PAIC was able to procure 5.69 lakh tonnes (12.1 %) of wheat.
The Central Government agency FCI had been able to procure 6.24 lakh tonnes of wheat which was the 13.2% of the total procurement of wheat in the state.
The spokesman added that Patiala with 7.37 lakh tonnes of procurement was leading in procurement operations whereas district Sangrur a 6.91 lakh tonnes of procurement was at second slot and District Ferozepur with 4.47 lakh tonnes of procurement ranked at third position
The State Government has set up 1734 procurement centres and activated its total machinery to ensure smooth procurement of wheat, the spokesman added.
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Punjab State stands 3rd in e-Panchayat project at national level
Chandigarh April 24
HS Grewal, PRO
: On 2nd National Panchayati Raj Divas organized at New Delhi today the Punjab state has bagged third prize for outstanding achievements taken in the implementation of e-panchayats project in the State. This was disclosed by a spokesman of Punjab Rural Development and Panchayats department. On the occasion Mr. Jagpal Singh Sandhu Financial Commissioner Rural Development and Panchayats Punjab has received a citation, trophy and Rs. 20 lacs prize money for this award on behalf of the State Government.
This National Panchayats day was celebrated by the Union Ministry of Panchayati Raj, at Vigyan Bhawan New Delhi where Prime Minister S. Manmohan Singh, UPA chairperson Mrs. Sonia Gandhi and Union Minister of Panchayati Raj and Rural Development Mr. Vilas Rao Deshmukh awarded the prizes to different states for their distinguished achievements in different areas of Panchayati Raj and emphasized the need to follow the “Roadmap for Panchayats” released by the Prime Minister.
Disclosing this S. Jatinder Singh Brar, project director e-panchayats told that under the dynamic leadership of S. Ranjit Singh Brahampura Rural Development and Panchayats Minister Punjab the desired results would show results within next two months.
He further added that e-panchayat project envisages maintaining online accounts available in public domain, creation of websites for three tiers of Panchayati Raj Institutions, creation of profiles for each panchayat, which would pave the way for enhancing accountability and transparency in functioning of panchayats and ensure inclusive growth through public participation.
He added that a large number of dignitaries across the country associated with panchayati raj graced this occasion. Mrs. Sukhpreet Kaur Sandhu, Mrs. Raminder Kaur Butter, Deputy Director, faculty members of SIRD, other officials of the department and a large number of elected representatives of three tiers of PRIs from Punjab participated in the National Panchayati Raj Divas celebrations.
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PUNJAB TO RECRUIT 5342 TEACHERS MORE
7654 NEW B.ED TEACHERS TO GET POSTINGS IN A WEEK
Chandigarh April 23:-
The Punjab Government would soon recruit 5342 teachers more in different categories to make education system more efficient and smooth in the state.
A decision to this effect was taken by the Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today during a series of meetings with the deputations of different Unemployed Teacher Unions of Punjab. Mr.Badal gave a patient hearing to the demands of the members of these deputations which included 'Unemployed B Ed Teachers Front (Punjab)' led by its president Mr. Harjit Jinda, ' Unemployed PTI Teachers Union (Punjab)' led by its president Mr. Mandeep Singh Kundi and 'Unemployed DPE/MP Ed (physical education teachers) Union' led by its president Mr. Jagdish Kumar Jaggi.
Expressing concern over the large number of posts lying vacant in various schools, Mr. Badal directed the education department to expedite the process of promotions and fresh recruitments to fill 4155 vacant posts of B.Ed, 646 of PTI and 541 of DPE teachers within two months. He further asked the department to depute science teachers in those schools where the state government had recently upgraded the infrastructure to impart quality science education.
Re-iterating the firm commitment of SAD-BJP Government for the over all development and welfare of the people of the state, Mr. Badal further assured the deputations that their all genuine demands would be considered sympathetically.
Taking part in the deliberations the Education and Language Minister Mr. Sewa Singh Sekhwan informed that as many as 7654 B.Ed teachers those were recruited recently would also be posted in various schools within a week. Regarding the entrance test for fresh recruitment, he said that it would be conducted as per the NCP guidelines.
Prominent amongst those who were present in the meeting included Education and Language Minister Mr. Sewa Singh Sekhwan, former MP Mr. Balwinder Singh Bhundar, Principal Secretary to Chief Minister Mr. D.S. Guru, Principal Secretary School Education Mr. C. Roul, Director Information & Public Relations Mr. D.S. Mangat, DGSC Mr. B. Purshartha and DPI (E) Schools Mr. S.S. Randhawa.
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CM MOURNS THE SAD DEMISE OF BABA HARBANS SINGH JI
(KAR SEWA WALE)
DEPUTY CM AND HARSIMRAT KAUR BADAL ALSO CONDOLES
CHANDIGARH APRIL 23:
Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today expressed profound grief and sorrow over the sad demise of Baba Harbans Singh ji Kar Sewa Wale who passed away at Delhi on Friday after a brief illness on 21st April.
In a condolence message, the Chief Minister described Baba Harbans Singh ji ‘a great soul and an epitome of benevolent and humility’. Baba ji was committed to the selfless service for the well being (chardi kalan) of the Sikh Panth throughout his entire life. He was an institution in himself who relentlessly worked for the welfare of the mankind with missionary zeal and the valuable services rendered by him for the construction and renovation of Gurdwaras and Sikh institutions across the country would be ever remembered by one and all.
Meanwhile, the Deputy Chief Minister Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal and Member Parliament from Bathinda Mrs. Harsimrat Kaur Badal also mourned the sad demise of Baba Harbans Singh ji Kar Sewa Wale.
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Finally Budha Nullah to be clean with launch of bio-remediation project
LUDHIANA, April 23: The Union Minister for Environment and Forest Mr Jairam Ramesh today laid the foundation stone of the multi-crore Bio-remediation project for cleaning of the Budha Nulla. The Rs 16 crore project will be fully funded by the Union Ministry for Environment, Government of India.
Accompanied by the local MP and the National Spokesperson of the Indian National Congress Manish Tewari, Mr Ramesh latter while addressing a press conference said, this is the first and the largest project of the ministry across the country where bacteria are used for cleaning of the water-bodies. There are five places across the country where such Bio-remediation projects have been launched. He said, the effects of the project will be seen within one year of its launch.
The minister also announced that the project will be closely monitored not only by the union ministry but by the experts as well as the public representatives including the media. He said, effective monitoring was essential for all these projects so that these are taken to the logical conclusion.
He hoped that the state government will implement the projects as had been promised to him by the Chief Minister Mr Prakash Singh Badal and the Deputy Chief Minister Sukhbir Singh Badal when they met him in New Delhi.
Mr Ramesh said, during the last one year the union environment ministry had sanctioned Rs 316 crores for various projects in Punjab. Earlier, he said, during a ten year period between 1998 to 2010, the ministry had sanctioned Rs 216 crores to the state.
The minister expressed concern over the environmental degradation in Ludhiana district. He said, Ludhiana is the richest district in the country but is not as clean as it should have been. “Ludhiana is rich but not clean”, he remarked, while adding, more attention needed to be given to the cleanliness.
Giving details of the project, he said, the Bio-remediation project is cost effective and cheaper than conventional treatment, easy to handle and does not need highly skilled man power and electricity to run the treatment process.
He said, the Central Pollution Control Board had identified seven firms for carrying out such bioremediation projects in open drains especially for the drains adjoining river Ganga. However, he said, Budha Nullah was one of the drains selected for demonstration of the Biro-remediation technology.
Among others present on the occasion included Fatehgarh Sahib MP SS Libra, Qila Raipur MLA Jassi Khangura, Isher Meharban, Rakesh Pandey, Pawan Dewan and others.
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