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Punjab News: 2011

 

WITH EYES ON OLYMPICS 2012 PUNJAB HONORS ITS ASIAN AND COMMONWEALTH GAMES MEDALISTS · PLAYERS FELICITATED WITH HIGHEST IN THE COUNTRY CASH AWARDS
SUKHBIR· PROMISES TO MAKE LAKHPATI PLAYERS CROREPATIS IF THEY CLINCH OLYMPIC GOLD/ SILVER Rs.· 7.54 CRORE SHOWERED ON 50 MEDALISTS IN GLITTERING CEREMONY

Mohali / Chandigarh February 04:


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The Punjab today honored its Asian , Commonwealth Games and International Sports Events Medalists with the highest ever cash award, motivating them to excel in Olympic 2012.

The Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal and Deputy Chief Minister Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal today honored over 50 players with a whopping cash prize of Rs. 7,48,22,331 cash prize. 17 Commonwealth Games Medalists got 2.58 crore where as 17 Asian Games Medalists got Three Crore. It will be for the first time in the history of the state that such a big amount was presented to the medalists of Asian, Common Wealth Games and other International Events. Mr. Ronjan Sodhi who won 1 Gold and 1 Bronze Medal in Asian Games and 2 Silver Medals in the Common Wealth Games-2010, took home a whopping amount of Rs. 95.00 lac, Manjit Kaur and Mandeep Kaur, Athletes an amount of Rs. 48.00 lac and Rs. 43.50 lac, respectively. Manavjit Singh Sandhu (Shooting) was richer by Rs. 58.66 lac and Abhinav Bindra (Shooting) by Rs. 43.00 lac. Heena Sidhu (Shooting) took home more than Rs. 48.33 lac.

The initiative of Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal bore the fruits and it was decided in the Sports Policy that any player of the state who wins an Individual or Team Gold Medal in Olympics will be awarded Rs. 2.25 crore. The Silver and Bronze Medalists would take home Rs. 1.01 crore and Rs. 51.00 lac, respectively. The Gold, Silver and Bronze Medalists of Asian Games would gain Rs. 26.00 lac, Rs. 16.00 lac & Rs. 11.00 lac and Commonwealth Games Rs. 16.00 lac, Rs. 11.00 lac & Rs. 6.00 lac, respectively.

In the function medalists of Asian Games, Common Wealth Games-2010 and other International Competitions held between the year 2007-08 & 2009-10 were honored. The number of such players is 50 which also includes players hailing from Punjab but otherwise are employed with organizations outside Punjab was also felicitated with cash award.
Speaking on the occasion the Punjab Chief Minister lauded the players for bringing laurels to the country and to their home state Punjab. He said that the Punjab Government was fully alive to its responsibility to nurture, facilitate and encourage its sportspersons who bring laurels and glory to the state and the country by winning medals at National & International Level. He said that the presentation of Cash Incentives to eminent sportspersons was an expression of appreciation and gratitude of the state to them.

The Deputy Chief Minister Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal speaking on the occasion said that Punjab was the only state in the country that was giving highest ever cash award to the sports persons who have made their mark in International Competitions. He said that Asian Games have made the players Lakhpatis and he was looking forward to make every Olympic Gold / Silver Medalist a Crorepati. He said that to promote sports in the state the Cabinet recently has approved creation of 10 posts in Group – A level in the grade of Rs. 10300-34800 + 5000 Grade pay to generate employment opportunities for Olympics, Asian and Commonwealth Games medalists. He said that this was not only the International Athletes that the Govt. is taking care of on the other hand; it was duly serious about the welfare of the sportspersons at the state level. He said that with an eye to create a sound pool of players in 10 priority disciplines, Sports Department would organize Shaheed-E-Azam Bhagat Singh Punjab Games in last week of February, to provide players a unique platform to test their skills, inculcate a higher level of competitive spirit and develop killing instinct to make earnest efforts for victory. Mr. Badal said that the total Prize Money in these State Level Games, which would become an annual feature, would be Rs. 210.00 lac which works out to be Rs. 21.00 lac per discipline. Giving the details Mr. Badal said that the first 3 Winning Teams would take home Rs. 9.00 lac, Rs. 7.00 lac and Rs. 5.00 lac, respectively. He said that these Games would be organized under Flood Lights and telecast live from Semi Final Stage onwards. Mr. Badal said that the Sports Scholarships at the State Level have also been enhanced significantly. Now the first 3 position holders at the Senior National Level shall get Rs. 40,000/-, Rs. 20,000/- and Rs. 15,000/-, respectively. Similarly, the scholarship rates for the Medalists at Junior National, All India Inter University, National School Games, National Women Sports Festivals and All India Rural Sports and even at the State Level have been proportionally enhanced.
Mr. P.S.Aujla Secretary Sports said that the Sports Policy has also shown concern of the State Govt. for the eminent sportspersons of yesterdays, who during their youth brought honour to the Nation and the State. Accordingly, the Pension Rates for the Olympic, World Cup Medalists has been hiked from Rs. 1,000/- to Rs. 5,000/- and for Asian and Common Wealth Games from Rs. 600/- to Rs. 2,500/- per month.

Mr. Pargat Singh Director Sports said that as per provisions of the New Sports Policy, the Cash Incentive of Maharaja Ranjit Singh Award has been doubled from Rs. 1.00 lac to Rs. 2.00 lac. The Govt. has also decided to confer this award to 75 eligible sportspersons from the year 2005 to 2009 in near future. For this purpose, the Govt. has already sanctioned an amount of Rs. 165.00 lac. The Govt. is fully aware to provide latest sports infrastructure to sportspersons, so that they can train and compete with their international counterparts. Besides replacing the worn out Synthetic Hockey Surface at Burlton Park, Jalandhar, it has developed a new Synthetic Hockey Surface at Village Sansarpur (Jalandhar). Additionally, it has developed 10 Six-A-Side Training Synthetic Hockey Surfaces in the State. The construction/ renovation of 13 new Hockey/ Multipurpose Sports Projects at a cost of appx. Rs. 100.00 crore is underway. The total number of Hockey Stadiums is 5 which includes Mohali, Faridkot, Amritsar, Ludhiana, Bathinda & Village Ghudda (Distt. Bathinda). The Multipurpose Stadiums include Mansa, Sangrur, Bathinda, Ludhiana, Jalandhar, Hoshiarpur, Gurdaspur and Amritsar. In addition to this, an International Hostel at a cost of Rs. 2.00 crore is nearing completion in Jalandhar. The Govt. has also decided to provide a grant of Rs. 55.00 lac to Punjab Olympic Association (POA) to field a strong contingent of 650 sportspersons in the 35th National Games to be held at Ranchi (Jharkand) from 12th to 26th February, 2011.
It is worth mentioning here that Shooter Ronjan Sodhi got Rs.94,99,333/-, Shooter Manavjit Singh Sandhu Rs. 58,66,000/-, Shooter Hina Sidhu Rs. 48,33,333/-, Athelete Manjit Kaur Rs. 48 Lakh , Athlete Mandeep Kaur Rs. 43.50 Lakh, Shooter Abhinav Bindra Rs. 43 Lakh, Shooter Gurpreet Singh Rs. 38 Lakh , Shooter Mansher Singh Rs. 33.33 Lakh , Rower Manjit Singh Rs. 32 Lakh , Rower Ranjit Singh Rs 32 Lakh , Hockey Players Rajpal Singh, Sarwanjit Singh , Ravi Paul and Gurbaj Singh Rs 22 Lakh each, Hockey Player Dharmveer Singh Rs.22,62,500/-, Badminton Player Rajkumar Rs.20,50,000/-, Athlete Harwant Kaur Rs 11 Lakh, Boxer Manpreet Singh Rs 16 Lakh, Boxer Amandeep Singh Rs 11 Lakh, Shooter Zorawar Singh Rs 11 Lakh , Alok Kumar (Billiards) Rs 11 Lakh , Jaswinder Singh (Equestrian) Rs. 9.25 Lakh , Archer Gagandeep Kaur Rs.7.5Lakh, Shooter Amanpreet Singh Rs. 6.5 Lakh, Athlete Harminder Singh Rs.6 Lakh, Wrestler Navjot Kaur Rs. 6 Lakh , Navpreet Singh Rs.5 Lakh , Ms. Poonam Rs. 5 Lakh , Shooter Sohrab Singh Gill Rs. 4.16 Lakh, Badminton Player Charanjeet Kaur Rs. 3.75 Lakh , Harpreet Singh Rs 3.5 Lakh , Inderjit Singh Rs.3 Lakh, Table Tennis Player Mukesh Kumar Rs. 3 Lakh, Jasdeep Singh Rs.2.5 Lakh, Badminton Player Sanjeev Kumar Rs. 2.25 Lakh, Athlete Simranjit Singh Rs. 2 Lakh , Athlete Mahavir Singh Rs.2 Lakh, Weightlifter Geeta Rani Rs.2 Lakh, SI Talwinder Singh (Equestrian) Rs. 1.50 Lakh, Cyclists Harpreet Singh and Amandeep Singh Rs. 150,000/- each, Shooter Avneet Kaur Sidhu Rs.1.33 Lakh , Basket Bal Players Jagdeep Singh and Talwinder Singh Sahi Rs. 83,333/- each, Cricketer Parry Goel Rs. 83,333/-, Handball Players Sachin Chaudhry and Mohinder Singh Rawat Rs. 83,333/- each and Hockey Players Harjeet Singh ,Prabhdeep Singh & Varinderjit Singh Rs. 62,500/- each.

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BADAL GIVES NOD TO NAME MAJITHA BUS STAND AFTER
SARDAR SUNDER SINGH MAJITHIA


ALLOWS RED BECKON ON PRIVATE VEHICLES OF MEMBER RAJYA SABHA


CHANDIGARH FEBRUARY 07:

Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal gave approval to name the Bus Stand Majitha after the great statesman, reformer and founder of the Chief Khalsa Diwan Society Sardar Sunder Singh Majithia in accordance with the resolution adopted unanimously by the Nagar Council Majitha.

Disclosing this here today a spokesperson of the Chief Minister's Office said that Mr. Badal also gave nod to allow red beckon atop on the private vehicles of the Rajya Sabha members from Punjab as already allowed to the members of the Lok Sabha. Mr. Badal cleared these files as per the proposals mooted by the Transport Minister late last evening.

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SUKHBIR SEEKS MANDATE FOR CONTINUITY OF DEVELOPMENT· DISCRIMINATED STATES HAVE EVERY RIGHT TO PROTEST AGAINST DISCRIMINATION

· DENIES MISUTILIZATION OF CENTRAL FUNDS
· CENTRAL FUNDS ARE STATE FUNDS REVOLVED TO CENTRAL GOVERNMENT ACCOUNT

Jhaneri (Sangrur), February 7 :

Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal Deputy Chief Minister Punjab today said that SAD-BJP government would seek positive mandate from vigilant electorate of Punjab for continuity of accelerated development in the state.

Talking to reporters after laying foundation stone of Adarsh School here today, Mr. Badal said that electorate in India were becoming educated and aware about the need for continuance of development in the state and they prefer to vote for incumbent government rising above petty political considerations for the sake of development of the state. He said that whether it was Delhi, Orissa, Gujarat, Bihar and Haryana people have rejected the negative and vendetta ridden populism and put their stamp of approval for continue development process in the state.

Seeking equitable distribution of Punjab’s share in the Central taxes, Mr. Badal said that the states like Punjab that have been discriminated against in tax share devolving formula have every right to protest. He said that the states which are given less share in this formula would tend to protest and those states like UP that are getting more would remain silent on this issue. He said that Punjab is seeking its legitimate share in the central taxes on the basis of its robust contribution besides its peculiar problems and border state and its award for making nation self sufficient on food security front.

Denying the charge of mis-utilization of central funds, Mr. Badal questioned the nomenclature of central funds. He said that central funds were basically state funds and a tiny percentage of which was devolved back to the states as per archaic formula. He said that Punjab has right to protest as despite making maximum contribution to the central taxes the state was getting only 1.29 percent as a share. He said that SAD-BJP government has been demanding minimum 50 percent share in the central taxes. Mr. Badal said that what ever the tiny percentage state was getting, it was utilizing it properly to strengthen the infrastructure in the state.

Lashing at Amarinder for his negative vendetta politics Mr. Badal said that Amarinder was oblivious of development at grass root level as he remained absent from the state during his five year tenure and four years during SAD-BJP government. He said that he had just woken up from Kumbkarni sleep of nine years and would take time to comprehend massive development initiatives in the state. Mr. Badal said that Amarinder basically was visionless leader whose vision does not exceed his farm house in Dochi and he pities in for his ignorance.

Earlier addressing an impressive public rally here, the Deputy Chief Minister said that the Adarsh School programme was the novel programme initiated by the state government to provide free and quality education to over 3 lakh children living in remote villages of the state. He said that he was working out a programme with the private universities in the state so that children passing out from these schools can get assured admission in the universities. He said that to properly utilize the infrastructure of Adarsh schools, vocational and computer courses would be run during the evening shift in these building to equip our youth to compete in the international job market. He said that in the first phase 125 schools with an investment of Rs. 1000 crore would be opened in the state and separately 16 proposed private universities have agreed to sponsor 160 more other schools in the state.
Speaking about administrative reforms Mr. Badal said that he was proud that Sangrur has become first district in the country that has its land record fully computerized. He said that by 31st March total state land record would be computerized and by 30th June work of DTO offices would be online with registration certificates being issued by the dealers themselves. Mr. Badal said that administrative reforms were basically to remove the harassment of general public in the offices and by October 2011 all 70 citizen services would be available to the citizens in the Suvidha Kendres. He said that 3222 E- Gram Seva Kendres, 154 Fard Kenders, 185 Police Outreach Centres and Suvidha Kendres for every two lakh population in the urban area are set to change the face of the governance
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Focusing on strengthening health network, Mr. Badal said that by 31st March any serious patient requiring immediate hospitalization can summon ambulance at his residence by dialing 108 that would reach within 20 minutes time and over 120 such ambulances would be pressed in service.He said that the state government has chalked out Rs. 600 crore programme to strengthen primary health services network in the state and within next three months besides six major hospitals 35 mini hospitals would be set up in the state.
He said that with an eye to create a sound pool of players in 10 priority disciplines, Sports Department would organize Shaheed-E-Azam Bhagat Singh Punjab Games in last week of February, to provide players a unique platform to test their skills, inculcate a higher level of competitive spirit and develop killing instinct to make earnest efforts for victory. Mr. Badal said that the total Prize Money in these State Level Games, which would become an annual feature, would be Rs. 210.00 lac which works out to be Rs. 21.00 lac per discipline. Giving the details Mr. Badal said that the first 3 Winning Teams would take home Rs. 9.00 lac, Rs. 7.00 lac and Rs. 5.00 lac, respectively. He said that these Games would be organized under Flood Lights and telecast live from Semi Final Stage onwards. He said that the prize money for second world Kabaddi cup to be held in November has been doubled from 1 to 2 crore rupees while Rs. 1 crore and Rs. 50 lakh would be given to the runner up and second runner up team.

Earlier, Mr. Badal laid the foundation stone of two Adarsh schools Rs. 7.5 crore each at village Jhaneri and Balad khurd of Sangrur district. He also laid the foundation stone of a Rs. 4.5 crore Community Health Centre (30 bedded) and distributed prizes to the winners of a Kabaddi tournament organized there.

Prominent amongst those who accompanied the Deputy Chief Minister included Mr. Parminder Singh Dhindas PWD Minister, Mr. Iqbal Singh Jhunda MLA, Mr. Gobind Singh Longowal Chairman District Planning Committee and Mr. Gurbachan Singh Bachi, Director Administration , Punjab State Power Corporation Limited.
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ADDITIONAL CHARGE OF TRANSPORT TO SH. ANURAG AGARWAL

CHANDIGARH, FEBRUARY -7:

Punjab Government has given the additional charge of the post of Secretary, Transport to Sh. Anurag Agarwal, IAS, Chairman-cum-Managing Director, Punjab State Transmission Corporation Ltd. and in addition Managing Director, P.S.I.D.C, Chandigarh by relieving Sh. S.K.Sandhu, IAS of this additional charge.
Disclosing this here today a spokesman of the Punjab Government said that a notification has been issued in this regard.


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National unit of BJP Kisan Morcha

Lakhbir Singh P.A. to-
Sukhminderpal Singh Grewal
Vice Chairman, Punjab Small Industry and Export Corporation, Punjab Govt.
National Secretary, BJP Kisan Morcha
Incharge Jammu and Kashmir

Mullanpur/ Dakha :

National unit of BJP Kisan Morcha is all set to oppose the seed ordinance bill 2004 in Rajya sabha in the interest of the farmers of the country. Interacting with media persons at Mullanpur, Raman Banquet Hall, Mullanpur today the National Secretary BJP Kisan Morcha and Incharge Jammu and Kashmir Sukhminderpal Singh Grewal said that if this ordinance passes in the Rajaya sabha than the control on seeds of every crop would go into the hands of the Multinational Companies. He informed that the amended ordinance was presented in Rajya sabha recently and added that though the Congress led UPA Government was not in the majority in the Rajya sabha but it was trying to get the ordinance passed. He informed that the national unit of BJP Kisan morcha had organized an interstate debate on the ordinance on 19th November at Gurgaon in Haryana in which experts were also invited, in which it was resolved unanimously the ordinance was against in the interest of the farmers of the country. Sukhminderpal Singh Grewal also said that if seed control goes into the hands of the multination companies than automatically the companies would control the production of crops in the country. National Secretary of the BJP Kisan Morcha also asserted that this bill would also put a question mark on the quality of seeds. National secretary said that at present morcha was awaking the people of the country if needed than a agitation would be launched against the seed ordinance bill. He also demanded criminal proceedings against those seed producing companies, which provides poor quality seed to farmers. Chamkaur Singh Pandher President, BJP Kisan Morcha Khanna, Dr. Ajaib Singh Chahal Nurpura, Charan Singh President, BJP Kisan Morcha Jagraon, Jagtar Singh Bhagpur, Rajbir Singh Mangat samrala, Navdeep Singh Mullanpur, Amrik Singh Pehalwan Jagraon, Gurnam Singh Bhullar Bassian, Gurdev Singh Susrali, Parmjit Singh Gill, Sucha Singh Pahmra, were also present on the occasion.


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SUKHBIR FOR EQUITABLE DISTRIBUTION OF CENTRAL FUNDS TO THE STATES

CENTRE SURVIVING ON STATE’S FUNDS

DOES NOT BELIEVE IN VENDETTA POLITICS

GIVES AWAY PRICES TO THE WINNERS OF QUILARAIPURA RURAL GAMES

SUKHBIR DOUBLES FIRST PRIZE FOR WORLD CUP KABADDI TO RS. 2 CRORE

Quila Raipur (Ludhiana ) February 06:

Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal Deputy Chief Minister Punjab today said that central Government should evolve a progressive formula for equitable distribution of State’s share in the central taxes.

Talking to the reporters after prize distribution function of Quila Raipur Rural Games here today Mr. Badal said that Central Government in fact was surviving on State’s fund and instead of advising the state’s to cut down taxes, the Union Government its self should increase the share of Punjab from present 1.29% to minimum 50%. He said that Central Government should be indebted to Punjab as Punjab has made whole country self sufficient on food security front by contributing 70% rice and 50% wheat to the central pool. He said that Punjab acted as a sword arm of the nation when ever its frontiers were attacked by Pakistan in 1965 and 1971. He said that instead of appreciating Punjab for its contribution, the Union Government was squeezing the revenue of Punjab by giving it merger 1.29%.
When asked about Capt. Amarinder Singh threats Mr. Badal said that he does not believe in the vendetta politics of Amarinder and he was only focusing on accelerating development process in the state. He said that he was focusing on competing 4 laning and 6 laning of National and State Highways at the cost Rs. 6669 crores besides completing remaining work on 28 ROBs / RUBs at the cost of Rs. 309 crore. He said that it was matter of great satisfaction that Rs. 20000 crore Bathinda Refinery Project would be fully operational by 31st March this year and its fue units have been inaugurated by Mr. Mittal yesterday.

Expressing happiness over upcoming sports infrastructure in the state Mr. Badal said that 13 World Class Floodlit Stadiums with international sports infrastructure would be ready by 15th August this year out of which 6 would have Astroturf for Hockey Players. He said that World Cup Kabaddi would be held in November this year and first prize has been doubled Rs. 2 crore and 2nd price as One crore. He said that 7 Nation Hockey Tournament would be organize in the month of September in newly constructed stadiums. He said that Punjab was also planning Hockey IPL and Kabaddi League. Mr. Badal said that Punjab has planned Institute of Sports Excellence at Bathinda and three Sports Schools to nurture sports talent right from the child hood. Mr. Badal said that highest ever award money of Rs. 7.5 crore given to 50 players has become a motivating factor for players to opt games as career.

Mr. also announced a RO system for Quilaraipur and re-establishment of dispensary in the village. He also gave away prizes to the winners of three day rural games.
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Comprehensive policy to regularize the services of all daily, adhoc and Contract employees in place with in next 25 days- Badal

CHANDIGARH FEBRUARY 06:

Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today gave in principle approval to evolve a comprehensive and uniform policy to regularize the services of all the employees working on daily wages, adhoc and contract basis in various departments against the posts sanctioned by the State Government.

A decision to this effect taken by Mr. Badal in two separate meetings with the deputations of ITI Instructors Union ( contract basis) Punjab and the PWD Talmail (Coordination) Sangarsh Committee, Punjab led by its President Mr. Jarnail Singh Patti and Convener Mr. Kulbir Singh Saidkheri respectively here at Chief Minister's Residence this morning.
Mr. Badal directed the Chief Secretary to work out the modalities for the regularization of the services of daily, adhoc and contract employees in all the departments against the sanctioned posts who had been working for past several years. He also asked the personnel department to compile the entire data pertaining to such employees who had been recruited as per the prescribed qualifications and experience in accordance with strict merit so that this long pending issue of regularization raised by various associations from time to time could be amicably resolved permanently. He assured both the deputations that the entire matter would be resolved with in next 25 days to the satisfaction of all the employees' Unions. He further said the State Government was committed to provide a congenial atmosphere to its employees so that they could discharge their duties with utmost dedication and professional commitment.

Prominent amongst others who were present in the meeting included Education Minister Mr. Sewa Singh Sekhwan, Principal Secretary to Chief Minister Mr. D. S Guru, Additional Principal Secretary to Chief Minister Mr. Gagandip Singh Brar, Additional Secretary Technical Education & Industrial training Mr. Amarpal Singh. Additional Director Mrs. Daljit Kaur and Joint Director Jagjit Singh.

Besides Harvinder Singh Khalsa, Balbir Singh Kathgarh (both conveners) President Mohinder Singh Dhaliwal of PWD Talmail Sangarsh Committee and Navjot Singh Dhoot of ITI Instructors also participated in the discussions.

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CM gives nod to open sports wings in all Adarsh Schools

CHANDIGARH FEBRUARY 06:

To promote sports among the students in a big way, Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today announced to set up sports wings dedicated to Hockey, Football, Basketball, and Athletics etc in all the 11 Adarsh Schools run by Punjab School education Board (PSEB).

While presiding over a meeting with the Principals of these Adarsh Schools here at Chief Minister's residence this morning, Mr. Badal directed the Chairman of PSEB to immediately release liberal grant for developing state-of-the-art sports infrastructure in the newly upcoming sports wings in these schools to groom the budding players from school level in different sports to the national as well as international level. He asked the principals to prepare a comprehensive report for seeking funds and detailing the requisite infrastructure and the coaches who would be deployed either by the sports department or the National Institute of Sports, Patiala on the request basis.

Referring to another demand raised by the principals, Chief Minister agreed to provide two buses to each school for the transportation of the students from the nearby villages to the schools. He also asked the Chairman PSEB to immediately initiate the procedure for filling up the vacant posts of teachers in various schools to which the Chairman assured Mr. Badal that teachers would be recruited in all the schools against vacant post with in a fortnight by the approved selection committee. Mr. Badal also approved the proposal to install generators in these schools besides giving them a direct line also from nearby grid to ensure 24 hours uninterrupted power supply in these schools. He also conceded the proposal of the Principals to allot adequate funds for the construction of permanent kitchen instead of now make shift one for the preparation of hygienic mid-day-meals and asked the Chairman to immediately sanction funds for this purpose
The Chief Minister also asked the Chairman of the Board to start professional and vocational courses in the school especially in computers and spoken English on the priority to enable the students to compete with their counterparts in the public and convent schools. He also asked the principals to upgrade their English language labs to facilitate the students to speak English fluently and also traine them for the International English Examination Language Testing System (IELTS).
Mr. Badal impressed upon the Principals to discharge their duties with missionary zeal and firm commitment to emerge these schools as the role model to inspire the other educational institutions to excel in imparting quality education to the students. Mr. Badal said that he introduced the concept of Adarsh Schools by starting the first one at village Nandgarh in Bathinda district way back in 1979 almost 30 years ago and still today these schools were close to my heart and wanted them to grow and prosper to become ideal educational institutions in true sense to serve the students in a meaningful manner.

Prominent amongst others who were present in the meeting included Education Minister Mr. Sewa Singh Sekhwan, Principal Secretary to Chief Minister Mr. D. S Guru, Additional Principal Secretary to Chief Minister Mr. Gagandip Singh Brar, Director General School Education Mr. Krishan Kumar and Chairman PSEB Dr. Dalbir Singh.
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ROTATIONAL IRRIGATION PROGRAMME FOR RABI SEASON ANNOUNCED

Chandigarh, February 6:

The Irrigation Department, Punjab has announced the Rotational Programme for irrigation for the current Rabi Season through Canal water from 7-2-2011 to 14-2-2011. The channels of Sirhind Canal System would run on the priority basis from Sidhwan Branch, Bathinda Branch Bist Doab Canal Patiala feeder, and Abohar Branch , respectively.

Disclosing this here today a spokesman of the irrigation departmentsaid that Bhakra Main Line in group 'A' being in the Channels of first preference will run to their indent. Balance water supplies available will be utilized in Ghaggar link and its off taking channels i.e. Ghaggar Branch and Patiala Minor in Group 'B' respectively.

The spokesman further said that Punjab Channels and Branches off-taking from Harike and Ferozpur Headworks and all the direct distributaries of Sarhind Feederin Group 'A' First preference will run to their indent. Balance water supplies available would be utilised in Abohar Branch of taking from Sarhind feeder and distributaries/Minors of in Group 'B'
The spokesman also said that the channels off taking from upper Bari Doab Canal i.e. Main Branch Lower with its distributaries being in the first Preference would run to their indent .Balance water supplies water available would be utilized in Lahore Branch, Sabraon Branch, Kasur Branch Lower and with their distributaries respectively.

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PUNJAB WOULD SOON EMERGE AS A FRONT RUNNER STATE IN THE COUNTRY–BADALASKS PEOPLE TO BEWARE OF CONGRESS PARTY’S MALICIOUS PROPAGANDA FOR POOR FISCAL HEALTH OF THE STATE


Rupnagar February 5:
H. S. Grewal

Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today said that Punjab would soon emerge as the front runner state in the country due to unparalleled development and progress in every field be it education, industry, agriculture, infrastructure, civil aviation, rural and urban development during the SAD-BJP regime.

Addressing a Sangat Darshan programme organized at village Behrampur in district Rupnagar for the development of Sri Chamkaur Sahib assembly constituency, Mr. Badal said that our government had already announced to dedicate year 2011 as a year of transformation as a part of SAD-BJP government's agenda to accomplish its development projects and welfare schemes to cherish the aspirations of the people as well as to ensure overall growth and socio-economic development in the state.

Referring to the significance of Sangat Darshan Programme, Mr. Badal said that Punjab was the only state in the country to have this unique programme to redress the day-to-day problems and grievances of the common man on the spot. He said that this programme was aimed at resolving development issues on the spot to the satisfaction of the people and added that communication gap between the people and the administration must be bridged up to bring people closer to the administration to ensure their active participation in the government’s development projects and welfare schemes. He categorically said that ‘sangat darshan’ was not only a platform to dole out development grants but was a useful programme to feel the pulse of the people in order to serve them in the right earnest where the representatives of the elected government, officers and the people join their heads to redress the grievances of the common man on the spot in the larger public interest.

Taking a swipe at the previous Congress government, Mr. Badal said that what SAD-BJP government has done on development front in just four years could not be achieved by the Congress party during its 30 years of past regime in the state. He ridiculed Congress for blaming SAD-BJP government for poor financial situation in the state and said had this been true then from where we had been disbursing development grants worth crores during these sangat darshan. The Chief Minister asked the people to beware of malicious propaganda of the Congress to project state’s poor fiscal health deliberately to cover up its failures during its previous regime which led to our state to the brink of economic disaster. To vindicate his stand on the sound financial health of the state, Mr. Badal said that prudent economic policies and financial management had resulted in whopping increase in VAT collection, almost 100% from Rs.5136 core to Rs.10500 crore during the current fiscal which was likely to cross the mark of Rs. 14000 crore by March 2012. Likewise, there had been a hike of 75% in the Excise revenue from Rs.1548 crore to Rs.2500 crore in 2010-11.

On the occasion, the Chief Minister also released a grant of nearly Rs. 4.10 crore and Rs. 3.22 crore under rural development fund for the execution of various development works and schemes for the welfare of the people and comprehensive development of 55 villages in Rupnagar block and 33 villages in Morinda block of Sri Chamkaur Sahib Assembly constituency.

The Chief Minister also announced to upgrade the High School at Village Goslan to Senior Secondary School and made it co-educational besides starting a Primary School at village Singh which had been abandoned for past several years.
Later talking to the media persons, Mr. Badal said that the government had already issued a notification to declare Rupnagar as the fifth division of the state and the post of the Divisional Commissioner would be filled soon after completing the requisite formalities. He categorically said that only those villages would be included in the Rupnagar division whose panchayats gave their consent through resolution and the government would not include any village without prior consent of the village panchayat.

Prominent amongst others who were present on the occasion included Advisor to the Chief Minister Dr. Daljeet Singh Cheema, MLA Morinda Mr. Ujjagar Singh Baddali, former Minister Mrs. Satwant Kaur Sadhu, Chairperson Zila Parishad Ropar Mrs. Daljit Kaur Kang, Deputy Commissioner Rupnagar Mr. A.S Miglani and SSP Rupnagar Mr. Jatinder Singh Aulakh.
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SHIROMANI AKALI DAL
RESIGN AFTER ACCEPTING FAILURE ON GOVERNANCE; SAD ASKS PM
DR. MANMOHAN SINGH FAILED TO ACT AGAISNT HIS MINISTERS-NK SHARMA


Chandigarh, February 5 :
Shiromani Akali Dal Joint Secretary Mr. NK Sharma today said that Prime Minister’s statement in the Chief Secretaries conference that inflation is here to stay for times to come is acceptance of his total failure on governance front and he should resign to pave way for NDA government in the Centre to give relief to the common masses from the ever rising prices.
In a statement issued here today Mr. Sharma said that after befooling the masses since last two years that prices would be controlled in next three months, Dr. Manmohan Singh has accepted the fact that he cannot control his ministers who are conniving with multinational companies to artificially raise the prices of essential commodities and asked the masses to patiently bear the every day increasing pain of rising prices. He said that on one front Rahul blaming the coalition politics and on other front Prime Minister accepting his failure reflect total collapse of governance in Congress led UPA term II and President of India should dismiss the government for its total failure.

The SAD Joint Secretary said that congress party with his inherent ego and arrogance of being dominating partner in the coalition cannot run a coalition government and time has come that they should make way for NDA government in the Centre. He said that NDA also ran the coalition government for five long years and prices of all essential commodities remained under control because it kept a strict check on multi national companies and hoarders. He said that people of this country were not concerned about internal politics of congress led UPA coalition or inability of Prime Minister to clip the wings of his erring ministers. He said that people are only aware of the fact that they are spending twenty percent more every month in buying their ration whereas vegetable have become out of their reach.

Mr. Sharma said that Capt. Amarinder Singh instead of finding faults with SAD-BJP government should impress upon centre government to resign and make way for establishment of NDA government at the Centre.

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SUKHBIR’S INITIATIVES WILL MAKE PUNJAB SPORTS HUB OF THE COUNTRY-DHINDSA

Chandigarh, February 5 :

Mr. Sukhdev Singh Dhindsa President Punjab Olympic Association and Member Parliament today said that Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal Deputy Chief Minister Punjab’s path breaking initiatives like setting up of sports schools, colleges, encouraging sportsmen with highest ever award money providing world class sports infrastructure in the state besides recognizing the talent of sportsmen would make Punjab sports hub of the country.

In a statement issued here today Mr. Dhindsa said that already players from Chandigarh like Rajpal Singh and others have shifted to Punjab encouraged by the initiative shown by the Deputy Chief Minister Punjab. He said that 13 sports stadium with world class infrastructure that would be ready by August 2011 would provide real training ground to the budding players. He said that setting up of three sports schools, one institute of sports excellence was right and timely step to tap the talent at the grass root level and nurture them into international players. He said that he was happy that young and dynamic Deputy Chief Minister was passionately and aggressively encouraging the traditional sports like Kabbadi and Hockey besides chalking out a detailed policy for 10 main sports of the state.

He said that Shaheed e Ajam state tournament to be held this month would be a path breaking initiatives to monetarily help the district level players with handsome cash prizes and encouraging them to adopt games as a career. Mr. Dhindsa said that he was also appreciative of the efforts of the Deputy Chief Minister to rope in school Physical Education teachers to make sports a revolution in the state. He said that the decision of Deputy Chief Minister to have one compulsory sports period for every class was also appreciable. Mr. Dhindsa said that efforts of Deputy Chief Minister to identify school Physical Education teachers who can make a team of a specific game was also appreciable.

The State Olympic body chief said that congress party had always ignored and neglected the sports persons and Mr. Sukhbir Badal had given cash awards to those players who had won laurels to the country during congress regime in year 2006. Mr. Dhindsa said that after yesterday’s function there was a rare enthusiasm in the youth to adopt sports as a career and credit for all this goes to Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal.

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It is for the information of all concerned that the Bhog and Antim Ardas of Sh. Avtar Singh,
the younger brother of Mr. Gurdarshan Singh Bahia, Deputy Director (PR) working in Punjab Chief Minister Office, will be held at village Lehra Dhurkot situated on Rampura Phul-Bathinda road on 8th February 2011 at 1.00 pm. It is pertinent to mention that Avtar Singh expired on 1st February in a fatal road accident.
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JUSTICE AMARBIR SINGH GILL GRANTED TWO YEARS EXTENSION AS CHAIRMAN OF PUNJAB STATE LAW COMMISSION


CHANDIGARH FEBRUARY 05:
The Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal gave approval to grant extension for a term of another two years to the Chairman of the Punjab State Law Commission Justice Mr. Amarbir Singh Gill.
Disclosing this here toady a spokesperson of the Chief Minister's Office said that Mr. Badal cleared the file to this effect late last evening as the present term of Justice Gill was slated to expire on June 20, 2011.

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CHEEMA NOMINATED AS VICE CHAIRMAN OF MANDI BOARD AND JAGSEER SINGH APPOINTED AS OSD TO DEPUTY CM

CHANDIGARH FEBRUARY 05: The Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today nominated the President Aarhtia Association Punjab Mr. Ravinder Singh Cheema as the Vice Chairman of the Punjab State Mandi Board with immediate effect.
Disclosing this here today a spokesperson of the Punjab Chief Minister’s Office said that the Mr. Badal also nominated Mr. Indermohan Singh Qadian as Chairman of the Market Committee Ludhiana. He also nominated Thakur Jagdish Singh and Master Gian Singh as Chairman and Vice Chairman of the Market Committee Dinanagar.
Meanwhile, the Chief Minister also gave approval to appoint Mr. Jagseer Singh S/o Mr. Gurdev Singh alias Mr. Gurpal Singh Gora as Officer on Special Duty to the Deputy Chief Minister Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal.
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JUSTICE AMARBIR SINGH GILL GRANTED TWO YEARS EXTENSION AS THE PUNJAB STATE LAW COMMISSION


Chandigarh February 4:-The Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today gave approval to grant extension for a term of another 2 years to the chairman of the Punjab State Law Commission Justice Amarbir Singh Gill.
Disclosing this here toady a spokesman of the chief minister's office said that Mr. Badal cleared the file to this effect this evening as the present term of justice gill was to expire on June 20, 2011
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CM ANNOUNCES TO DISBURSE PENSION TO BENEFICIARIES THROUGH BANKS FROM APRIL 1, 2011

CHANDIGARH FEBRUARY 04:

Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today announced to disburse pension to the eligible beneficiaries under various schemes through banks at their door steps from April 1, 2011. A decision to this effect was taken by the Chief Minister at a high level meeting to review the status of various social welfare schemes like houses for houseless for Scheduled Castes families, disbursement of pensions, shagun scheme and rural toilets here at Chief Minister's residence this morning. The Chief Minister asked the Principal Secretary Social Security and Women & Child Welfare and Secretary Welfare for Scheduled Castes/Backward Classes to rationalize the procedure for the payment of the pensions to ensure its timely payment to the beneficiaries under various schemes like old age, widow, destitute and physically challenged without any harassment to them. Mr. Badal also directed Secretary Social Welfare department to promptly clear the backlog of Shagun scheme for the year 2009-10 & 2010-11 and also asked the finance department to immediately release Rs. 108 crore to clear the pending cases of nearly 90,000 beneficiaries positively by 31st March 2011. He also ordered to make the payment of Shagun scheme regularly from April 1, 2011 onwards to the beneficiaries at the time of their daughter's marriage. To curb the malpractice of bogus applicants, the Chief Minister also directed the social welfare department to get the eligible cases of Shagun scheme thoroughly examined and duly verified from the concerned district social welfare and Tehsil welfare officers to ensure that the payment was made to the deserving beneficiaries. He also asked the Principal Secretary Finance to release Rs. 8 crore per month regularly to be placed at the disposal of social welfare department for the timely disbursement of Shagun scheme. The payment of Shagun scheme would be made through online transaction by the directorate of welfare to the eligible beneficiaries through banks avoids inordinate delay. The Chief Minister was apprised by the Social Welfare department that there were nearly 17 lac beneficiaries under various schemes and they were being paid pensions regularly. It was also decided in the meeting to ensure the genuineness of the all the beneficiaries they would be required to open their saving bank accounts in the nearby branches of the banks. The Chief Minister also approved a sum of Rs.224 crore to be spent on the construction of toilets in the villages thereby disbursing a grant of Rs.2 crore per assembly constituency by 31st March, 2011. He also asked the officers of the Public Health department to jointly work out the modalities to accomplish the project of rural toilets within a stipulated time schedule. He also impressed upon the officers to ensure the quality of the construction of these toilets as per the prescribed norms. Mr. Badal also emphasized the need to undertake an immediate survey to identify the eligible beneficiaries for the scheme of houses for houseless SC families. He also gave his nod to sanction an amount of Rs.95 crore to be disbursed for the scheme upto 31st March, 2011. Prominent amongst others who were present in the meeting included Finance Minister Dr. Upinderjit Kaur, Social Security and Animal Husbandry Minister Mr. Gulzar Singh Ranike, Principal Secretary to Chief Minister Mr. DS Guru, Principal Secretary Finance Mr. KBS Sidhu, Principal Secretary Social Security Mr. TR Srangal, Director Social Security Mr. Gurkirat Kirpal Singh, Secretary welfare for SC BC Mr. R.Venkatratanm, Director Welfare for SC/BC Mr. PS Shergill and Additional principal Secretary to Chief Minister Mr. Gaggandip Singh Brar. …xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx


CM GIVES NOD FOR THE EMBANKMENT PROJECT OF RIVERS AT VARIOUS CRITICAL POINTS AT A COST OF RS. 196 CRORE

CHANDIGARH FEBRUARY 04:

Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal approved a project of Rs. 196 crore for the embankment of rivers at various critical points under the flood protection works in the state.
A decision to this effect was taken by Mr. Badal in a high level meeting of the Deputy Commissioners here at Punjab Bhawan late last evening.

According to the spokesperson of Chief Minister's office Mr. Badal asked the irrigation department to work out the modalities to initiate this plan by March 2011 positively. He directed both the Chief Engineers of Canal and Drainage to complete all the ongoing works of cleaning of canals and drains in a stipulated time frame to ensure uninterrupted irrigation water supply at the tail ends. The Chief Minister further said that no laxity would be tolerated at any cost in this count.
Taking part in the deliberations, Chief Engineer Canals Mr. AS Dullat apprised the Chief Minister that work of cleaning of 1822 KM canals had been completed till January 2011 and remaining 3462 KM canals would be completed by the March 2011.

Meanwhile, the Chief Engineer Drainage Mr. Vinod Chaudhary informed the Chief Minister about the action plan for cleaning of the drains in the state. He said that the cleaning of 597 KM water logged drains was in full swing at a cost of Rs. 6.17 crore and would be completed by mid March, the cleaning work of 1111 KM wet drains would be initiated in March at a cost of Rs. 22 crore which would be completed till June 2011. Regarding the cleaning of 2800 KM dry drains Mr. Chaudhary informed that it required nearly 11.42 Lac men days that could be completed under NREGA for which the list of dry drains was being circulated to all the Deputy Commissioners.

The Chief Minister asked his Principal Secretary Mr. DS Guru to regularly monitor the progress of cleaning of canals and drains to ensure its timely completion with in the fix time frame and also hold meetings with the Chief Engineers of the canal and drainage departments regularly to undertake flood protection works on regular intervals well in advance to save the life and property of the people from the damage caused by floods.
Mr. Badal further directed the Irrigation department to coordinate with the Deputy Commissioners to ensure that majority of these works especially the cleaning of the dry drains to be carried out through NREGA as it would offer huge employment potential to the people of the nearby areas.

Prominent amongst others who were present in the meeting included Rural Development & Panchayats Minister Mr. Ranjit Singh Brahampura, Irrigation Minister Mr. Janmeja Singh Sekhon, Revenue Minister Mr. Ajit Singh Kohar, Financial Commissioner Revenue Mrs. Romila Dubey, Principal Secretary to the Chief Minister Mr. DS Guru Principal Secretary Finance Mr. KBS Sidhu, Principal Secretary Irrigation Mr. G. Vajralingam, Additional Principal Secretary to the Chief Minister Mr. Gaggandip Singh Brar and Director Rural Development & Panchayats GS Sidhu besides the senior officers of the state administration and deputy commissioners.

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CM ANNOUNCES CORPUS FUND OF RS.3 CRORE TO SETUP THREE DASHMESH SCHOOLS IN PUNJAB


CHANDIGARH FEBRUARY 04:

Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal announced to create a corpus fund of Rs. one crore each for the three Dashmesh Schools at Talwandi Sabo (in Bathinda District), Badal (in Muktsar District) and Kotela Sultan (in Amritsar District).
A decision to this effect was taken by Mr. Badal in a meeting to review the progress of the schools with the Principals of these schools and the Deputy Commissioners of the respective districts held here at Punjab Bhawan late last evening.
Disclosing this here today a spokesperson of the Chief Minister's office said that Mr. Badal also announced a grant of Rs. 35 lac for each school to improve infrastructure and carry out other development works immediately.

Taking part in the deliberations Mr. Badal also informed that he was emotionally attached to these schools as the idea to establish these schools had been conceptualized and materialized by him 30 years back. He also directed the Principals and local administration to develop these schools as ultra modern to impart quality education of high standards.
Prominent amongst others who were present in the meeting included Principal Secretary to the Chief Minister Mr. DS Guru, Additional Principal Secretary to the Chief Minister Mr. Gaggandip Singh Brar, Director Information and Public Relations Mr. DS Mangat, Principals of Dashmesh Schools and Deputy Commissioners of Amritsar, Muktsar and Bathinda.

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ROMILLA DUBEY SWORN IN AS CHAIRPERSON OF THE PUNJAB STATE ELECTRICITY REGULATORYCOMMISSION

CHANDIGARH FEBRUARY 04:
Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today administered the oath of office and secrecy to Mrs. Romilla Dubey as the Chairperson of the Punjab State Electricity Regulatory Commission (PSERC) here at Chief Minster's residence this morning in a simple but impressive ceremony.

Disclosing this here today a spokesperson of the Chief Minister's Office said that Mrs. Dubey had been appointed as Chairperson in place of Mr. Jai Singh Gill, IAS (retd.) whose term as Chairman of the PSERC expired on 20th January, 2011.

It may be recalled that senior bureaucrat Mrs. Dubey of 1973 batch of IAS from Punjab cadre held important assignments during her career as Financial Commissioner Revenue, Principal Secretary Technical Education, Principal Secretary Science & Technology and Secretary Social Security.

Meanwhile, the Additional Secretary Power Mr. MR Aggarwal conducted the proceedings of the swearing-in-ceremony.
Prominent amongst others who attended the oath taking ceremony of Mrs. Dubey included Principal Secretary to Chief Minister Mr. DS Guru, Additional Principal Secretary to Chief Minister Mr. Gaggandip Singh Brar, Chairman-cum-Managing Director Punjab State Power Corporation Ltd. Mr. KD Chaudhary, Chairman-cum-Managing Director Punjab State Transmission Corporation Ltd. Mr. Anurag Aggarwal, OSD (Power Reforms) Mrs. SS Walia, besides Secretary Mrs. Namita Sekhon, Mr. Varinder Singh and Mr. SS Paul, members of Punjab State Electricity Regulatory Commission.
Mrs.Romilla Dubey was accompanied by her husband Mr. AK Dubey Commissioner, Punjab State Election Commission, relatives and friends on the occasion.

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AJAY BAGGA AND VINOD SUD NOMINATED AS MEMBERS OF PUNJAB MEDICAL COUNCIL

CHANDIGARH FEBRUARY 04:
Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today nominated Dr. Ajay Bagga and Dr. Vinod Sud as members of the Punjab Medical Council with immediate effect.
Disclosing this here today a spokesperson of the Punjab Government said that with the nomination of these two members against the vacant posts in the Council the total strength of the members had gone upto six besides the President of the Council Dr. Manmohan Singh.

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POPULATION ENUMERATION TO BEGIN FROM 9TH FEBRUARY
Chandigarh, February 4:

A Regional Press Conference for Census of India 2011 was held today. The conference was organized by the Directorates of Census Operations of Punjab, Chandigarh and Haryana. Addressing the Press Conference, Dr. C. Chandramouli, IAS, Registrar General and Census Commissioner, India said that the countrywide population count will begin on 9th February and continue till 28th February. This would be followed by a revisional round during 1st to 5th March to update the data as on the reference moment which is 00.00 hrs of 1st March, 2011. Adding on the massive nature of the work, the Census Commissioner said that nearly one lakh enumerators and supervisors have been deployed for Punjab, Haryana and Chandigarh alone for canvassing Household Schedule containing 29 questions. At the same time the success of this gigantic exercise lies in people’s cooperation. It is “Our Census, Our Future”. More importantly, the individual level information is kept confidential under the Census Act and appealed that people should help the enumerator by giving complete and correct information. The Enumerator is to record answers as answered by the respondent, and the respondent is required to put her/his signatures or thumb impression on the filled in schedule. In order to take create awareness among masses the Census organization has adopted various low cost publicity measures with maximum reach depending upon the local requirements. It goes to the credit of Census organization that the entire field work is will be completed in three weeks time and the provisional results on key items such as; population by sex, growth rate, child population, literacy, sex ratio, child sex ratio, etc will be made available in another three weeks time by the last week of March, 2011.

Highlighting on the efforts made in Punjab in reaching people to generate awareness about Census, Smt Seema Jain, IAS, Director Census, Punjab said that in view of local planning at the village panchayat, intermediate panchayats and district panchayat levels as well as in urban local governments as envisaged under the 73