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BADAL DESCRIBES VIRASAT-E-KHALSA AS ONE OF THE WONDERS
 OF THE WORLD


CM TO BE BESTOWED WITH PANTH RATTAN FAKHAR-E-QUAM

DEPUTY CM ASKS YOUTH TO AVOW FROM ABSTAINING DRUGS
NITIN PATS BADAL FOR THE PRESTIGIOUS VIRASAT-e-KHALSA

SRI ANANDPUR SAHIB NOVEMBER 25:

            Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today described the state-of-the-art Virasat-e-Khalsa as ‘one of the wonders of the world’ to showcase the history of Sikhism and Khalsa Panth for our future generations. 


            Addressing a religious congregation here after dedicating the prestigious Virasat-e-Khalsa to the humanity by the Head Priests of five Takhats in his presence and the President Shiromani Akali Dal & Deputy Chief Minister Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal, the Chief Minister said that it was his sheer passion to erect such memorial to perpetuate the rich legacy of 550 years of Sikhism right from Sri Guru Nanak Dev ji till partition in 1947 amongst our youth to enable them to become ideal citizens of the society.  Mr. Badal was exteremly humbled while dedicating this prestigious project to the mankind saying that he alone could not accomplish this gigantic task without the blessings of the Almighty and unstinted support and cooperation from the masses. 
Mr. Badal lamented the way the entire Congress leadership of the state disuaded the Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh from particiapting in today’s historic function as it was his keen desire to get this world class project dedicated to the nation by an eminent personality of his stature.   
Taking a dig at the opposition, Mr. Badal further said that he was pained  to note that despite of extending personal invitations to all the MLAs and Members of the Parliament they did not participated in today’s function meaning thereby they have virtually bycotted it.  Mr. Badal asked “Had they bycotted my  invitation or Virasat-e-Khalsa, adding Mr. Badal said that these leaders owe an explanation to the public for this unsavory behaviour”.   Mr. Badal in an emotive gesture said that the God had bestowed upon countless blessings on him and his family and he would ever remain indebted to the Almighty and pray to God to give him strength for serving the Khalsa Panth, Punjab and its people till his last breath. 
Expressing gratitude to the world aclaimed architect Mr. Moshe Saifde who concepulaised and designed the Virasat-e-Khalsa, the Chief Minister said that he met him at Jerusalem in Isreal 13 years ago and asked him to construct a monument of grandeure on the pattern of  one constructed in the rememberance of martyrs of Isreal.  He said his dream has been fulfilled today with Mr.Moshe’s hard work and dedication.  Mr. Badal honoured Mr. Moshe Saifde and his wife who were present on the occasion.
Mr. Badal said that it was the bounden duty of the government to construct such memorials to connect the past moments in the format of history with present in today’s relevance and this wonder in form of Virasat-e-Khalsa was a right step in this direction.  He said that his government would also dedicate Chhota Galughara Memorial in Khanuwan Chamb in Gurdaspur district, Wadda Galugharsa at Kup Rahera in Sangrur distrct and Fateh Burj as Baba Bandha Singh War Memorial at Chhapar Chiri in Mohali district on November 28, 29 and 30 respectively. 
On the occasion, Jathedar Sri Akal Takhat Sahib Giani Gurbachan Singh announced to confer the title of Panth Rattan Fakhar-e-Quam on the Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal for his outstanding contribution and services for the welfare of Sikh panth on December 5 at Sri Akal Takhat Sahib. 

In his address the President of SAD & Deputy Chief Minister Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal said that it was the endeavour of SAD-BJP government to construct these memorials to commemorate the supreme sacrifices of the martyrs who laid down their lives for the Sikh panth. He said that nations who forget their martyrs or heroes were bound to vanish with the passage of time. He said that the Virasat-e- Khalsa was a dream project of the Chief Minister which has been cherieshed by the grace of God. He said: “I bow my head in reverence to the great saints, religious and spritual leaders who had specially come from different parts of the country to grace the occasion”. 
The Deputy Chief Minister further said that the Sikh history was replete with numerous selfless sacrifices and we have inherited this legacy from our great Gurus and Martyrs.  He appealed the youth to take a vow to abstain from the menace of drugs to ensure a harmonious and prospers Punjab as a befitting tributes to our great Gurus and martyrs.
National BJP President Mr. Nitin Gadkari in his address highly appreciated the initiative of Mr. Badal for dedicating this world fame project to the mankind.  He said that it was unfortunate that Prime Minister did not attend the function despite being inivited by the Chief Minister personally.  Mr. Gadkari hoped that the Virasat-e-khalsa monument would go a long way in imbibing the spirit of communal harmony, national integration, brotherhood and peace as showcased by it in the right perspective as per the tenets of Sikhism. 

Prominent amongst others who spoke on the occasion included founder of the Art of the Living Sri Sri Ravi Shankar, Bapu Asha Ram, Architect Moshe Saifde, former MP from Pakistan Rai Aziz Uallah, SGPC President Jathedar Avtar Singh, Managing Editor Ajit Group of Papers Dr. Barjender Singh Hamdard. Those who attended the function included Mr.Ranjit Singh Brahmpura, Dr. Upderjit Kaur, Mr.Sewa Singh Sekhwan, Mr. Janmeja Singh Sekhon, Mr. Gulzar Singh Ranike, Mr. Hira Singh Gabria, Mr.Tikshan Sud, Capt. Balbir Singh Bath (all Cabinet Ministers), Advisor to Chief Minister Dr. Daljeet Singh Cheema, Media Advisor to Chief Minister Mr. Harcharan Bains, Mr. Nand Lal and Mrs. Mohinder Kaur Josh (both Chief Parliamentary Secretaries) MP from Amritsar Mr. Navjot Singh Sidhu, MP from Faridkot Mrs. Paramjit Kaur Gulshan, MP from Tarn Taran Mr. Rattan Singh Ajnala, President Youth Akali Dal Mr. Bikram Singh Majithia, former Deputy Speaker Lok Sabha Mr. Charanjit Singh Attwal, Mr. Balwinder Singh Bhunder, Prof. Prem Singh Chandumajra and Mr. Maheshinder Singh Grewal (all General Secretaries of SAD), former Education Minister Pakistan Punjab Janab Mian Imran Mayood and former Minister Mr. Madan Mohan Mittal. Besides senior leaders and party workers of SAD-BJP, religious, spiritual and social leaders and members of the SGPC also attended the congregation.

 

CM ADVANCES TIME OF MEETING WITH 17 KISAN MAZDOOR ORGANIZATIONS- FOR TALKS ON NOVEMBER 26 AT BATHINDA FROM 6.30 PM TO 3.00 PM

 CHANDIGARH NOVEMBER 23:
            Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today pre-poned the time schedule of the meeting with 17 Kisan Mazdoor Organizations to discuss their pending issues and demands, slated to be held at Circuit House, Bathinda on November 26  (Saturday) now at 3.00 pm instead of 6.30 pm.
            Disclosing this here today, a spokesperson of the Chief Minister’s office said that the state government was already aware of the genuine issues and demands of these organizations and would consider them sympathetically for their permanent resolution through the process of mutual dialogue with all the representatives of these organizations.

IN A HISTORIC MOVE RAMOOWALIA MERGES HIS LOK BHALAI PARTY IN SAD, LAKHS OF LBP WORKERS JOIN SAD

MERGER WILL ENSURE THE ROUTING OUT OF CONGRESS FROM THE STATE- CM

TYRANNY AND OPPRESSION OF THE CONGRESSMEN HAVE EVEN SURPASSED THAT OF THE MUGHALS

SAD-BJP ALLINACE BOUND TO RULE FOR COMING 50 YEARS WITH MERGER OF LBP- SUKHBIR SINGH BADAL

PEOPLE WILL TEACH DUBIOUS CONGRESS LEADERS A LESSON
 
Badowal (Ludhiana), November 23-
            The Shiromani Akali Dal got a major shot in arm today as in a historic move lakhs of party workers of Lok Bhalai Party (LBP) under the leadership of former Union Minister and party Chief Mr Balwant Singh Ramoowalia announced its merger in SAD, here today in the presence of Punjab Chief Minister Mr Parkash Singh Badal and the Deputy Chief Minister Mr Sukhbir Singh Badal.            
Responding to the appeal made by the Chief Minister on Tuesday to join hands for the welfare of the state, Mr Ramoowalia expressed faith in the pro-people and developmental policies of the SAD-BJP alliance government, while announcing the merger of his party in SAD during a mammoth gathering of the workers of the Lok Bhalai Party.
            Earlier addressing the gathering, the Punjab Chief Minister Mr Parkash Singh Badal said that it was a golden and historic day for the state as LBP has decided to join hands with SAD, which would not only help in routing out the anti- Punjab and anti-development, Congress party from the state but would also ensure to the sustainability of the unparalleled development in Punjab. Terming the merger of LBP as home coming for Mr Ramoowalia, the Chief Minister said that the former Union Minister has served the SAD, country and state while adoring the key positions in the Union government. Mr. Badal lauded the services rendered by Mr Ramoowalia on several social issues especially his role during the troublesome period of the state as well as in the agitations launched but SAD from time to time.  He said that all the leaders and workers accompanying Mr Ramoowalia would be duly accommodated in the party folds adding that Mr Ramoowalia would play a big role in party. "The merger of LBP will enhance the strength of SAD and untidily we will defeat the Congress in the coming assembly polls" added Mr Badal.             
Assailing the Congress party for depriving the state of its due share of waters and its capital, the Chief Minister said that it has inflicted a deep wound on the minds of Sikh psyche through Operation Blue Star and anti Sikh Riots of 1984, for which its leaders could never be pardoned.  Mr Badal lamented that Congress had always manoeuvred to cause damage to Punjab by interfering in its social, political, economic and even the religious affairs, directly or in a clandestine manner. Equating the Congress rule in the country with that of the Mughals, the Chief Minister said that the tyranny and oppression of the Congressmen have even surpassed that of the Mughals adding that the countrymen especially the Punjabis have been deliberately victimized due to the wrong and anti-people policies of the Congress leadership. He said that the Congress leadership had always meted out discriminatory treatment with the state which was evident from the fact that due to the erroneous policies of successive Congress led union governments the farmers of the state were on the brink of starvation, despite of contributing lavishly for the national food security. Holding the Congress party directly responsible for the maladies faced by the country like the unemployment, corruption, inflation and poverty, the Chief Minister exhorted the people of Punjab to strengthen the hands of SAD for routing it out from the state in the forthcoming assembly polls.
            Addressing the gathering Deputy Chief Minister and SAD Chief Mr Sukhbir Singh Badal while welcoming Mr Ramoowalia and his supporters in the party fold said that now the family of SAD had united for wiping out the Congress party from the political arena of the state. Kicking off the election campaign of SAD, he said that the presence of lakhs of people in the rally indicated that the people were ready to teach the Congress party a lesson in the coming assembly polls adding that with the merger of LBP in SAD, the alliance government would rule the state for another 50 years. Slamming the Congress party the Deputy Chief Minister said that due to its misrule the Congress party has created a mess by setting a record of tremendous inflation and rampant corruption in the country, which needs to be wiped out.
Making a scathing attack on the Congress leadership, the SAD Chief said that the Congress leaders were least bothered about the people of state and were always busy in merry-time activities whereas on the other hand that of the SAD under the stewardship of Chief Minister Mr Parkash Singh Badal were whole heartedly dedicated to the service of the people. The Deputy Chief Minister reiterated that the people of the state were aware of the dubious character of the Congress leaders and they would teach them in lesson the upcoming assembly polls. "It is writing on the wall that owing to the all round development of the state in present regime of SAD-BJP government, the people of state will support us in the upcoming polls" added Mr Sukhbir Singh Badal.   

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CM ADMINISTERS OATH OF OFFICE AND SECRECY TO FOUR NEWLY APPOINTED COMMISSIONERS OF PSRSC

CHANDIGARH NOVEMBER 23: 

Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today administered the oath of office and secrecy to former IPS Officer (Retd.) Mr. SM Sharma, IAS Officer (Retd.) Mr.Iqbal Singh Sidhu, SAD MLA from Verka Dr. Dalbir Singh Verka and Advocate Mr. Harinder Singh Dhillon as Commissioners of Punjab State Right to Service Commission (PSRSC) at a simple but an impressive ceremony here at Punjab Bhawan this evening.

Disclosing this here today a spokesperson of the Chief Minister’s office said that the appointment and service conditions of these four newly appointed Commissioners would be issued later on.
Meanwhile, the Chief Secretary Mr. S.C. Agrawal conducted the proceedings of the swearing-in-ceremony.
It may be recalled to ensure accountably of the official machinery and to provide time bound delivery of 67 citizen centric services; the state government had set up   Right to Service Commission under Section 13 of the Punjab Right to Service Act, 2011.   Under Right to Service Act, time bound delivery of 47 civil services and 20 police services to the citizens as a matter of right would be ensured besides a provision of punishment for civil servants in case they failed to comply with the prescribed timeframe. 
          Prominent amongst others who were present on the occasion included Chief Parliamentary Secretary Mrs. Mohinder Kaur Josh, Principal Secretary Industries & Commerce Mr.SS Channy, Principal Secretary Local Govt. Mr. Satish Chandera, Principal Secretary Housing & PWD (B&R) Mr. SK Sandhu, Vice Chancellor Panjab University Dr.RC Sobti, Secretary Food & Supplies Mr. DS Grewal and ADGP Intelligence Mr. Suresh Arora. Besides the family members, friends and relatives of the  Commissioners also attended the function. 


HARSIMRAT BADAL RAISES ‘BAN ON TURBANS IN FRANCE’ ISSUE IN LOK SABHA

               Chandigarh, November 23 : In keeping with her strong commitment to the Sikh issues, Harsimrat Badal, Member Parliament today again took up the issue of ‘Ban on Turbans in France’ in the Lok Sabha through an Unstarred Question and sought reply from the External Affairs Minister. In a reply, the Central Government has said that, “THAT FRENCH GOVERNMENT HAS CLARIFIED THAT ITS(FRENCH) DOMESTIC LAW BANS DISPLAY OF ANY RELIGION-CONNECTED SYMBOLS IN PUBLIC SCHOOL AND NON-DISCRIMINATORY AS IT APPLIES TO PEOPLE OF ALL RELIGIONS LIVING IN FRANCE”.

          It may be added that  Harsimrat Badal had taken up the issue of ‘Ban on Turbans in France in schools’ a number of times in the past and the last monsoon session witnessed heated exchange of words and uproarious scenes in Lok Sabha over the discrimination on the basis of turbans all over the world when Harsimrat threw the Central Government over the floor over the failure to take up the issue of ‘turban’
.
            On the reply given by the Minister of State External Affairs, Smt. Preneet Kaur, Harsimrat has reacted very sharply stating that “Central Government should stop playing with the sentiments of Sikhs.”   In the reply the Government has stated that they took up the issue in 2008 at Prime Minister’s level and then followed by External Affairs Minister in 2011. “It is ironical that when world over there are protests from the Sikh community, the government of India has not given due importance to the issue and is happy with the French Government’s reply.”
Harsimrat Badal has questioned the Centre’s intentions and reminded the Central Government and the Minister of State for External Affairs Smt. Preneet Kaur “why the central government is not able to inform the French Government that turban is not a religious symbol it is part of the Sikh being.  Unlike other head coverings, turban is an inextricable part of the Sikh identity and is worn by Sikhs at all times to cover their unshorn hair, a mandatory article of their faith.”
She said,“The turban is unshakeable commitment of Sikhs to the mission given to all Sikhs by the Gurus – to stand firm against tyranny and protecting the downtrodden. Turban is part of our being.  “You may take off my head but not my turban” has been the reaction of Sikhs who were subjected to the tyrannical rules and they happily gave supreme sacrifices than to give up their turban.”
“Central Government has totally failed to address the issues of Sikhs, be that turban issue, Anand Marriage Act or the justice to 84 genocide victim families.” She added.

Virasat - e - Khalsa
Virasat - e - Khalsa is conceived as a repository of the rich heritage of the Khalsa its history and culture of the Punjab so as to inspire visitors with the vision of the Gurus, emphasizing the eternal message of the great gurus for the whole mankind.
Towards the end of the fifteenth century, in the Punjab region of Northern India, Guru Nanak Dev founded a faith rooted in the core values of universalism, liberalism, and humanism. The nine Gurus who followed Him built upon and consolidated His teachings, thereby establishing Sikhism not only as a belief system but also as a way of life.
Two hundred years later, in 1699, on the occasion of Baisakhi, the Tenth Guru Gobind Singh formally founded the Khalsa Panth at Anandpur Sahib, establishing a social order committed to peace, equality and justice for all. Today, on the same site, stands the majestic Gurdwara Takht Sri Kesgarh Sahib.
The year 1999 marked the Tercentenary of the Birth of the Khalsa. To commemorate this event, the Chief Minister of Punjab S. Parkash Singh Badal laid forth the outlines of a magnificient edifice to be known as Virasat - e - Khalsa at Sri Anandpur Sahib.
The Heritage Complex is inspired by the rich natural and architectural heritage of Sri Anandpur Sahib, while also drawing heavily from Sikh and regional architecture. Contrary to the tradition of domes which crown the sacred Sikh sites, the roofs of the Museum are concave-shaped receptors facing the sky. Sheathed in stainless steel, they reflect the sun’s light towards the Gurdwara and the Fort.
PANJPANI
Punjab, the fertile land of the five doabas, draws it’s name and identify from five mighty rivers originating from the Himalayas and flowing through the verdant landscape in India's north west. Through its long and tumultuous history, the people have earned a name for themselves for their courage diligence dignity and a passionate love for life. Punjab's open hearted approach for music, dance and poetry is as legendary as their patriotic valour.
FIFTEENTH CENTURY PUNJAB
In the fifteenth century, Punjab was under the rule of the Lodhi dynasty. Casteism and discrimination was rampant in society. People turned to rituals and superstitions for shelter and spiritual solace.
SIKHISM: A WAY OF LIFE
He is the One,
the Truth,
the Creator
No caste, no creed,
no country dividing;
All are equal before Him
the only creator of all things
SRI GURU NANAK DEV JI : EARLY YEARS
A mystic from an early age, Guru Nanak proclaimed the doctrine: the love of the creator and of creation is the only religion. He travelled far and wide, delivering the message of God’s love, and of freedom from rituals and superstitions.
SRI GURU NANAK DEV JI AT KARTARPUR SAHIB
Sri Guru Nanak Dev Ji finally settled at Kartarpur Sahib, where a new Brotherhood of devotees was formed. It is here that he bestowed upon Bhai Lehna Ji the Guruship, and gave him the name of Guru Angad.
SRI GURU ANGAD DEV JI AND SRI GURU AMARDAS JI
Sri Guru Angad Dev Ji established the second Sikh centre at Khadur Sahib, where he refined the message of Gurmukhi script and spread the Gurbani. The next Guru, Sri Guru Amardas Ji dedicated his life to uplift the status of women in society. He denounced superstition and the caste system.
SRI GURU RAMDAS JI
The fourth Guru, Sri Guru Ramdas Ji nominated the site for the Amrit Sarovar around which the city of Amritsar was constructed. Sri Guru Ramdas Ji established the tradition of reciting the Gurbani in ragas and made it the central expression of devotion.
SRI GURU ARJAN DEV JI
The construction of the holy Sri Darbar Sahib which was undertaken by Sri Guru Arjan Dev Ji who also compiled compositions of all four previous Gurus as musical ragas into the Adi Granth. The message of the Adi Granth, a state of harmony and righteousness, Sri Guru Arjan Dev Ji termed it as the ‘Halemi Raj’, the triumph of benevolence.
NEW DIRECTIONS IN SIKHISM
Sri Guru Hargobind Singh Ji initiated the process of militarization of Sikh believers to enable them to fight injustice and tyranny. The next two Gurus, Sri Guru Har Rai Ji and Sri Har Krishan Ji, dedicated their lives to social reforms and humanitarian services.
MARTYRDOM OF SRI GURU TEGH BAHADUR JI AND THE GURUSHIP OF GOBIND
Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji offered the Supreme Sacrifice to protect the faith of the Kashmiri Pandits from the atrocities of the Mughals. His son, Guru Gobind Singh held high the mantle of the Guruship as a saint, a warrior and a poet, defeating the chiefs of the hill kingdoms in successive battles, and also fortifying Sri Anandpur Sahib.
FORMATION OF THE KHALSA
In 1699, Sri Guru Gobind Singh Ji formed the Khalsa at Anandpur Sahib. From amidst the believers, he chose his Panj Pyaras, Five Beloveds. The Guru ordained all Sikhs to proclaim themselves equals by universally embracing the Five Symbols of the faith – the kaccha, the kada, the kirpan, the kesh and the kangha.
THE ETERNAL GURU
The tenth Guru Sri Guru Gobind Singh Ji founded the Khalsa on the Baisakhi of 1699 at Sri Anandpur Sahib. The tenth Guru called upon the Sikhs to seek spiritual guidance, from the holy scripture, Sri Guru Granth Sahib. All religions of the World worship their holy scripture but the Sikhs are the only community who look up to their scripture as a 'Living Guru'.
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FORMER MEMBER PPSC AND MEMBER SGPC AMARJIT SINGH CHAWLA BREAVED

PUNJAB CM CONDOLES THE SAD DEMISE OF CHAWLA’S MOTHER
 
 CHANDIGARH NOVEMBER 23:
          Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today expressed profound grief and sorrow over the sad demise of Sardarni Malkiat Kaur the mother of former Member PPSC and Member SGPC from Sri Anandpur Sahib Mr.Amarjit Singh Chawla.  Sardarni Malkiat Kaur 90 passed away at Ludhiana after a prolonged illness this morning and is survived by a son. 
Mr. Badal also shared his heartfelt sympathies with the members of the bereaved family and prayed to the Almighty to give strength and courage to bear this irreparable loss and grant peace to the departed soul.

BADAL CALLS UPON PEOPLE TO FOLLOW TEACHINGS
OF SRI GURU TEG BAHADUR JI

CHANDIGARH NOVEMBER 23:
The Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today called upon the people to follow the high ideals of secularism, humanism and spirit of sacrifice as preached and practiced by ‘Hind Di Chaadar’ - the Ninth Guru Sri Guru Teg Bahadur ji.
In his message on the occasion of Shaheedi Divas of Sri Guru Teg Bahadur ji, the Chief Minister said that Guru ji laid down his life to protect the right of freedom to worship and preserve human and secular values.  He said: “Guru ji’s supreme sacrifice is unique and un-paralleled in the history of mankind and symbolized the crusade against tyranny and oppression”.   The Bani of Sri Guru Teg Bahadur ji in Sri Guru Granth Sahib preaches oneness of mankind, universal brotherhood, valour, righteousness and compassion.  “Our real homage to the great Guru would be to follow his teachings in true spirit and re-dedicate ourselves to serve society especially the poor and downtrodden with dedication and missionary zeal rising above the petty considerations of caste, colour, creed and religion”, said Mr. Badal.
The Chief Minister appealed to the people to participate untidily in the observance of this sacred occasion by displaying the spirit of harmony and social cohesion to strengthen the unity and integrity of our Country. 


GURU TEG BAHADURJI WAS AN EPITOME OF GREAT COURAGE AND CONVICTION-SUKHBIR
Chandigarh, November 23: Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal, Deputy Chief Minister today called upon people to follow high ideals of secularism, humanism and spirit of selfless sacrifice as preached and practiced by ‘Hind-Ki-Chhadar’ Guru Teg Bahadur ji.
        In a message on the eve of martyrdom day of ninth Guru, the Deputy Chief Minister said that Guru Teg Bahadur was an epitome of great courage and conviction. The supreme sacrifice made by the great Guru beckons us to uphold the truth and justice at any cost. His teachings of selfless service and brotherhood will continue to inspire generations to come, he added.
        Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal said that this sacred day of the martyrdom of Guru Teg Bahadur ji gives us an opportunity to resolve to prove ourselves worthy of his legacy.  He said that the ideals of secularism and humanism which the Guru stood for would continue to guide our path always.
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DGP S M SHARMA GIVEN
VOLUNTARY RETIREMENT
Chandigarh, November 23: The Punjab government has approved the voluntary retirement plea of Mr. SM Sharma, DGP/Security, a 1980 batch IPS officer with effect from November 23, 2011. The plea for voluntary retirement has been accepted under Rule 16(2) of All India Service Manual.
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HARSIMRAT BADAL LAMBASTS CENTRE FOR ‘MISLEADING INPUT COSTS INVESTED BY
FARMERS

*AND DEMANDS DOUBLING THE MINIMUM SUPPORT PRICES IN LOK SABHA TODAY

 Chandigarh November 22:

Bathinda Member Parliament Harsimrat Kaur Badal today lambasted the Central Government on the opening day of the Winter Parliament Session over the plights of Punjab farmers and for making agriculture unviable in the country including in Punjab. In a Question No.150 asked by Harsimrat Badal, “WHETHER AGRICULTURE HAS BECOME UNVIABLE IN THE COUNTRY INCLUDING PUNJAB DUE TO HIGH INPUT COSTS INVESTED BY FARMERS…AND STEPS GOVERNMENT TAKEN REGARDING RAISING MINIMUM SUPPORT PRICES ?”.

           The Minister for Agriculture, Shri Harish Rawat replied by giving details of input costs borne by the farmers in Punjab as calculated by the Central Government for fixing the Minimum Support Price, as per which the input costs invested by farmers for paddy works out to be Rs.25,154 per hectare and for wheat it is Rs.17945 per hectare.

           Lambasting the Centre for miscalculating the input cost incurred by farmers, Harsimrat said that the Minister of Agriculture has given details which are misleading.  Nowhere in Punjab, the lease / rental value of per acre of land is less than Rs.24000/-, which works out to roughly Rs.60,000/- per hectare. But Minister has calculated the entire input cost incurred by the farmers as Rs.25,124/- per hectare together with the cost of rent paid for leased in land, interest on working capital, irrigation charges, seed, fertilizer and manures, machinery labour, bullock labour and human labour. It seems the Centre works out details based on flawed formula and unfounded assumptions by people who have never traveled outside Delhi”, she said.

           She further said,”for growing wheat in Punjab, the cost of machinery is Rs.4248/- cost of seed is Rs.1580/- cost of fertilizers have gone up from Rs.2821/- to Rs.5000/-, cost of manure is Rs.58, Irrigation charges are Rs.1791/-, insecticides/weedicides is Rs.1291/- and if you include human labour, bullock labour, it works out much more when the minimum rental value per hectare alone is Rs.60,000/-.

           Recently in a meeting of the Consortium of Indian Farmers Association held in Patiala on the issue of ‘making agriculture viable’, Harsimrat Badal had promised the farmers’ associations that she would raise the matter in Parliament.

           The Centre’s Agrciulture Minsiter also did not answer when asked, “steps taken by the Government to bail out farmers including raising MSP”.

           She said that the Centre is anti-farmer and does not wish to realize that input costs incurred by farmers are much more than what they calculate it to be, and once the Centre concede to actual input costs of farmers, the Centre would have to double Minimum Support Price. She also charged the Centre for  keeping the input costs of farming ‘very low’ in
their records so that farmers do not get commensurate MSP.  Centre is not listening to the plight of farmers, they do not want to understand that farmers’ cost of living and risk is increasing multifold. On the other hand, farmers are also not paid any pension etc. so that they could bear the risk.

           She demanded that the Centre to calculate input costs incurred by farmers on the basis of ‘actual’ input costs and also demanded to double the MSP so that agriculture becomes viable in the country.
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BADAL DIRECTS PSIEC TO IMMEDIATELY ALLOT INDUSTRIAL PLOTS TO THE OLD APPLICANTS AT BATHINDA

CONCEDES MAJOR DEMANDS OF BATHINDA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY
Chandigarh, November 22

Punjab Chief Minister Mr Parkash Singh Badal today directed the Punjab Small Industries & Export Corporation (PSIEC) to immediately settle the long pending issue regarding the allotment of plots to the applicants in the old industrial area at Bathinda.
An assurance to this effect was given by the Chief Minister in meeting with the delegation of Bathinda Chamber of Commerce and Industry led by its President Mr Raman Watts, here at Chief Minister’s residence this morning.
Disclosing this here today a spokesperson of the Chief Minister’s Office said that Mr Badal asked the Managing Director of the PSIEC to consider the plea of Chamber to apply same terms and conditions for the allotment of industrial sheds, as applicable in case of plots. To give impetus to the industrial activity in the Bathinda district, Mr Badal also agreed to the demand of the delegation to set up a Fire Sub Station near ITI Chowk in the land available nearby park to effectively tackle any untoward incident of fire in industrial units. Mr Badal also gave approval to further develop the existing park in the Old Industrial area for effectively checking the pollution instead of converting it into commercial area as proposed by the PSIEC. The Chief Minister also gave nod for the early completion of a 2 kilometer pending stretch of Ring Road from Mansa Road to Barnala Road.

Mr Badal also directed the Principal Secretary Industries to immediately get the RO system installed in the industrial area and the boundary wall constructed in the Focal Point Dabwali Road Bathinda and Old Industrial Area to prevent the theft of costly material of the local industry. The Chief Minister further asked the Improvement Trust Bathinda to relay and widen the roads in the local old industrial area and industrial growth centre, with funds of Rs 25 lakh available with it. Responding to another demand for cleaning of silt and other sediments in the water works of old industrial area for providing safe drinking water, Mr Badal directed the water supply and sanitation department to immediately take necessary steps for ensuring supply of quality water to the workers and the residents of locality being fed by this water works. The Chief Minister also asked the Principal Secretary Local government to ensure proper disposal of sewerage water in the Focal Point area to mitigate the problems faced by the industrialists.   

Meanwhile, the local SAD leader Mr Sarup Chand Singla expressed gratitude to the Chief Minister for accepting their all long pending demands and said that the local industry would further strive hard to give fillip to the pace of industrialization in the state.   

Prominent amongst those present in the meeting included Principal Secretary to Chief Minister Mr DS Guru, Principal Secretary Industry Mr SS Channi, Principal Secretary Local Bodies Mr Satish Chandra, Director Industries Mr Sukhdeep Singh Bains and Managing Director PSIEC Mr MP Arora besides General Secretary of Chamber Mr Mohanjit Singh Puri
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P S BADAL’S APPEAL TO RAMOOWALIA TO JOIN SAD

Chandigarh 22 November  -   The Punjab Chief Minister and the  Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) patron Sardar Parkash Singh Badal today urged the national President of Lok Bhalai Party (LBP) and former Union Minister S. Balwant Singh Ramoowalia to join the the SAD in the larger interest of the people of the state.

   Mr.  Badal today wrote to the LBP chief asking him to join “the pro-Punjab and pro-people forces against anti- Punjab opportunists in politics. The Chief Minster said that Ramooliwa can play a  crucial role for the people  through his qualities as a tireless campaigner, a compelling orator and  committed champion on several critical social issues such as exploitation of brides and some other issues relating to the NRIs.
     Mr. Badal lauded the services rendered by S. Ramoowalia on several social issues and his role during critical challenges faced by the people of the state as during the  difficult periods of Emergency (1975) and later during the Dharam Yudh Morcha of 1982 launched by the SAD.

     The Chief Minister described Mr. Ramoowalia as an eminent Punjabi and a positive political force in the state and said that during his days as a formidable Akali leader, the LBP chief had played a crucial role  in fighting for the interestsmof the the people of the state. “As a  trusted lieutenant of late Sant Harchand Singh Longowal, Mr. Ramoowalia’s  contribution to the Dharamyudh Morcha was always paramount.
   Mr. Badal asked the LBP chief to  strengthen the forces of peace and development  by joining the SAD.
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HALF DAY HOLIDAY IN PUNJAB
Chandigarh November 22:- The offices of Punjab Government, Boards & Corporations and also educational institutions located in Chandigarh and Mohali will remain closed for the second half of 22nd November 2011, (Tuesday), to enable the government employees to participate in ‘Nagar Kirtan’, to be organized on the eve of Martyrdom Day of Sri Guru Teg Bahadur Ji.

          However the offices of State, Boards, Corporations and also Education Institutions in rest of the State would remain closed for the second half of November 23rd, 2011 (Wednesday).
          A notification in this regard has been issued to all Heads of Departments and Managing Directors of Boards & Corporations, Registrar, Punjab & Haryana High Court, Commissioners of all the Divisions, Deputy Commissioners of all Districts and SDMs of all Sub-Divisions throughout the State.

SPECIAL ALLOWANCE FOR CERTAIN CATEGORIES OF EMPLOYEES OF PUNJAB CIVIL SECRETARIAT AND EQUIVALENT OFFICES

Chandigarh, November 22: The Punjab government today notified the enhanced special allowance to certain categories of employees of Punjab Civil Secretariat and of equivalent offices from June 1, 2011. This decision would also be applicable to those categories of employees of Punjab Vidhan Sabha Secretariat, Financial Commissioner's Secretariat, Punjab Raj Bhawan, Legal Remembrance's Office and Punjab Public Service Commission also.

Disclosing this here today, a spokesman of the State government said that special allowance rates would be as under; Superintendent Grade-1 (Rs.1200), Private Secretary (Rs. 1200), Personal Assistant (Rs. 600) , Senior Assistant(Rs. 480), Junior Auditor/Auditor(Rs. 480),    Senior Scale Stenographer(Rs. 480), Junior Assistant(Rs. 480), Junior Scale Stenographer(Rs. 300) , Steno-Typist( Rs. 240) and Clerk ( Rs. 240).   
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SIX PPS OFFICERS TRANSFERRED

Chandigarh November 22:

          The Punjab Government today issued transferred and posting orders of six PPS officers in the state with immediate effect.
          Disclosing this here today a spokesman of the Punjab Government said that Mr. Amarjit Singh has been posted as Superintendent of Police/Crime Bathinda. Mr. Jagtar Singh Kainth has been posted as Superintendent of Police/Local SBS Nagar, Mr. Mohinder Pal Singh has been posted as Superintendent of Police/Local Ludhiana (Rural).
          Likewise, Mr. Satpal Joshi has been posted as Deputy Commission of Police Amritsar, Mr. Kanwaljit Singh has been posted as commandant 82nd Battalion PAP Chandigarh and Mr. Ranjit Singh has been posted as Commandant IRB Jalandhar (Camp Kapurthala).

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GURDWARA ELECTION COMMISSION


Chandigarh November 22:
(Avtar Singh Narula)
Secretary
            Central Government has decided to call a meeting on  5th December, 2011, of the newly elected members of SGPC, its ex-officio members, being Head Minister (Head Granthi) of Darbar Sahib, Amritsar, and Head Ministers of Sri Akal Takhat Sahib, Amritsar; Sri Takhat Keshgarh Sahib, Anandpur Sahib;Sri Takhat Patna Sahib; Patna, Sri Takhat Hazur Sahib, Nanded; and Sri Takhat Damdama Sahib, Talwandi Sabo, Bathinda. The meeting so convened will be held of 5th December, 2011 at 1:00PM in the Teja Singh Samundari Hall, SGPC Complex, Amritsar for co-opting fifteen members residents in India, of whom not more than five shall be residents of Punjab as described in clause (iii) of sub-section (I) of Section 43-A of the Sikh Gurdwaras Act, 1925. Newly elected members and the ex-officio members of the SGPC are requested to make it convenient to attend the meeting on the date, time and place fixed as aforesaid. Intimation informing the members about the above meeting alongwith Entry Passes is being sent enabling them to enter the venue of the meeting.

 

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GURU OFFERS JUICE TO RANBIR DHILLON TO END HIS FAST UNTO DEATH

SANGARSH COMMITTEE EXPRESSES GRATITUDE TO CM
CHANDIGARH, 21 NOVEMBER



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       On the direction of the Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal, his Principal Secretary Mr. D.S.Guru today offered juice to the convener of Punjab Mulazam Sangarsh Committee Mr. Ranbir Singh Dhillon  to end his fast unto death in support of employees’ demands.

       Disclosing this here today, a spokesperson of the Chief Minister’s Office said that Mr. Guru persuaded Mr. Dhillon to immediately call off their ongoing agitation as their most of the demands have already been accepted by the Chief Minister. He said Mr. Badal was ever ready to consider the demands of the employees with open heart for their welfare as well as in the larger public interest.
       Meanwhile, the representatives of the Mulazam Sangarsh Committee expressed their gratitude to the Chief Minister for the acceptance of their long pending demands as a goodwill gesture.
       Later talking to the media persons, Mr. Guru said that the veteran employees’ leader Mr. Dhillon had very cordial ties with the Chief Minister since long and therefore Mr. Badal took personal interest in resolving  long pending issues and demands raised by Sangarsh Committee concerning various categories of employees serving in the state to their utmost satisfaction. Mr. Guru informed that the Chief Minister personally directed the Chief Secretary to convene a meeting yesterday with the representative of the Sangarsh Committee led by Mr. Dhillon for the acceptance their major demands like implementation of old ACP scheme from 28 May, 2009 and grant of conveyance allowance of Rs. 300 per month to Group ‘D’ employees etc. He further said that the Chief Minister had also invited the representatives of Sangarsh Committee on November 30, 2011 at 6 pm at his official residence to discuss any pending issue or demand related to employees’ welfare. 

            It may be recalled that Mr. Badal constituted an officers’ committee under the Chairmanship of Chief Secretary and subsequently a cabinet sub committee comprising Mr Tikshan Sud, Dr Upinderjeet Kaur and Mr Adesh Partap Singh Kairon (All Cabinet Ministers) to look into the demands of the employees thoroughly and give its recommendations, of which most of them were accepted in the two cabinet meetings headed by the Chief Minister, added Mr. Guru.

RESULTS OF THE UPCOMING STATE ASSEMBLY ELECTIONS WOULD MAKE MANPREET REALIZE HIS MISTAKE -BADAL

CLAIMS THAT IN DEARTH OF ANY CAPABLE LEADER THE OPPOSITION PARTIES RELYING ON DEFECTORS OF SAD TO TAKE THE ALLIANCE IN COMING ASSEMBLY ELECTIONS

RS 1.5 CRORE DISBURSED FOR DEVELOPMENTAL WORKS IN GIDDERBAHA ASSEMBLY SEGMENT

THREE PROJECTS AT COST OF ABOUT RS 14 CRORE TO PROVIDE BETTER IRRIGATION FACILITIES IN THE REGION
 
Buttar Bakhua (Gidderbaha), November 21-

            Punjab Chief Minister Mr Parkash Singh Badal today said that the results of the upcoming state assembly elections would make former Finance Minister Mr Manpreet Singh Badal realize his mistake of leaving the Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD), as he and his party would be completely routed out from the political arena of the state by the people.
            Addressing the gathering during the Sangat Darshan program of eight villages falling in the Gidderbaha assembly segment, the Chief Minister lamented that the former Finance Minister has ditched his mother party, which had given him coveted positions. Mr Badal said that despite of the fact that he had nurtured the political career of Mr Manpreet by handing over his native assembly constituency of Gidderbaha but his nephew has ditched the party by joining hands with the Congress in a covert manner. However he said that people of the state would never forgive him for this betrayal and they would teach him a befitting lesson in the coming elections. “The elections will prove that people of state do not supports defectors and Manpreet will not get even a single seat in assembly’ he added.  
            Lashing out the rivals of the SAD-BJP alliance the Chief Minister said that the opposition parties do not have any leader of mass appeal who could give fight to the alliance due to which only they were relying on the defectors of the SAD to contest elections in the state. He categorically said that Captain Amarinder Singh, Mr Surjeet Sigh Barnala and Mr Manpreet Singh Badal of Congress, Shiromani Akali Dal (Longowal) and PPP respectively are the defectors of SAD, who have deceived their mother party for their vested interests. “But the people are aware that these people had done nothing for the state and they will teach all these traitors a lesson in coming polls” added Mr Badal.
Assailing the Congress led UPA government of the centre, the Chief Minister said that due to the wrong policies of this government the poor people were reeling under the burden of inflation. He said that the exorbitant and extraneous hike in the petroleum price have not only broken the backbone of the common man but due to the massive hike in agricultural inputs it has also brought the whole of the agricultural community on the brink of economic disaster. The Chief Minister said that it was unfortunate that the government which had assumed power in the name of common man and was doing nothing for their welfare but was extending largesse to the private companies, at the cost of the agony of the poor man. Lamenting the UPA government, he said that all the policies adopted by the Union government are pro-rich and have nothing to do with the welfare of poor adding that all the policies of the UPA government are aimed towards extending benefit to the MNC’s and big private companies.
Criticizing the national planning commission for fixing meager criteria for determining poverty line, Mr Badal said that the members of these bodies sitting in their Air-conditioned offices did not have any idea about the plight of people living in the rural areas but unfortunately they decide yardsticks for the eligibility of BPL families, which is not right.  
Taking note of the woes of the farmers of this cotton heartland of the state, the Chief Minister said that if the Union government removes the ban on export of cotton then the farmers of this region could become prosperous. Talking to the newsmen later Mr Badal said that the decision regarding the allocation of the party tickets to the candidates would be made by the party near the election dates.  
            Meanwhile in order to ensure regular water supply to the area for providing better irrigation facilities, the Chief Minister also announced three major projects of drainage in the area. He said that the state government would spent Rs 1.22crore on the giving a tail extension to Madheer Sub Minor upto Buttar Bakhua. Likewise he said that Bahua Piori Sub Minor would be constructed at a cost of Rs 3.51crore and the upgradation of Husla and Daula minor under the Kot Bhai distributaries system would be conducted at Rs 9 crore.
            The Chief Minister also disbursed a grant of Rs 1.5 crore for the development of the eight villages falling in the Gidderbaha assembly segment.       

SAD SURPRISED, ASKS AMARINDER TO GET READY FOR TOUR OF PUNJAB
 DESCRIBES AMARINDER’S STATEMENT AS A BUNDLE OF LIES


            Chandigarh, November 21 : The Shiromani Akali Dal expressed surprise over the accusations of Punjab Congress Chief Capt. Amarinder Singh in his statement release to the media two hours ago and described the statement as false, misleading and a total bundle of lies.
            In a statement released from the party head office here today party Secretary and Spokesman Dr. Daljit Singh Cheema said that the tone and tenor of the statement reveals the utter frustration of the Congress Chief. It is amazing to know that a person who imposed a blanket ban on recruitment during his tenure as Chief Minister is now alluring the youth of employment.
            Further reacting to the statement of the Congress leader,  the SAD spokesman apprised Capt. Amarinder Singh that more than 90 thousand youth had been given employment during the present tenure of SAD-BJP government. Department wise details are being published in a transparent manner in the daily advertisements being released by the state government regularly.
            Dr. Cheema further said that the SAD could well understand the psyche of Capt. Amarinder Singh who has remained out of reach of the people for the last four and a half years and now with the advent of poll season, he has started of talking about the welfare of the unemployed youth of the state which he suppressed all along during his tenure.
            The SAD leader also asked the former CM  to spare a little time from his ‘busy schedule’ so that  the SAD could arrange his visit to the state to get him equipped with the reality of the growth and development of the state witnessed during the last four and a half years and would let him see the same refinery working, a project which he had blocked on intervention of a particular multinational company. Apart from this SAD would arrange his visit to the sites of all the thermal plants which under construction and thousands of youth working there. He said that SAD is also ready to arrange his visit to government offices, which he seldom visited, to let him see the youngsters  recruited by the SAD-BJP government, working  for the welfare of the state, an act which Capt. Amarinder Singh is always opposed to.

OBSTRUCTIONIST AMARINDER ON A NIT-PICKING AND  GROWTH BLOCKADE SPREE:
SUKHBIR COMES DOWN HEAVILY AGAINST CAPTAIN’S 'LINGUSITIC

Chandigarh November 21

The Punjab Deputy Chief Minister Sukhbir Singh Badal said here today that Captain Amarinder Singh was on "a blockade spree" for all development  projects and socio-religious initiatives such as Heritage preservation endeavors and sports promotion in the state. “We have an inclusive and comprehensive vision, which covers all aspects of life. Development remains the centerpiece of that vision. This does not suit Captain Singh whose sole claim to political relevance is the linguistic rowdyism that he indulges  day in and day out. He should pay heed to the advice of tge Chief Minister to conduct decent politics based on people's issues.  ”

        The Deputy Chief Minister congratulated the participants of the World Cup Kabbadi event and thanked the people of Punjab for the unprecedented success of the “biggest sporting show on the soil of Punjab so far. There is a sports wave right across the  state now and we will take it to its peak and harness it for constructive channelization of our youth power,” Mr. Badal said in a statement here this evening.
       Mr.  Badal  said that Captain Singh's  nit-picking on the World Cup Kabbadi was  of a piece with his generally “destructive and obstructionist” approach to issues concerning the future of the people of the state. “As Chief Minister, he had got the work on the Bathinda Oil Refinery stopped in order to favour his friends an benefactors in the Reliance, and for five years, he put brakes on the most prestigious project of the Khalsa Panth, the Virasat-e-Khalsa at Sri Anandpur Sahib. He is now threatening that if elected to power, he would stop the Thermal Plants and the Kabbadi World Cup . “But the good thing is that he is never going to be in a position to destroy Punjab again. His bluff has been called and he is now crying himself hoarse like man haunted by an evil spirit, “: said  the Deputy Chief Minister.

      Dismissing Captain resort to abusive and even vulgar language against his rivals, Mr. Sukhbir Singh said that Captain had realized that he  had already lost the game on the issue of governance and development . He so desperately wants to shift our focus from agenda to abuses. He is trying in vain. The SAD-BJP, led by  Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal, is driven by a mature vision and an unswerving commitment to rural and urban development.,” said the Deputy Chief Minsiter.
         Mr. Badal said that the PPCC president was still feeling nostalgic about his “fluke” in 2002 and was  day-dreaming that his politics of lies followed by bigger lies would succeed. He is desperate to engage us in a dirty street war of abuses but “we are determined to push ahead with our agenda on governance and development, also taking sports, heritage and , culture along. “
     Mr. Badal said that Amarinder’s  cry of frustration at the success of the World Cup was nothing but was also lost in wilderness as “no one in Punjab is interested in his negative brand of politics , and he knows it.”
       The Deputy Chief Minster declared that that SAD-BJP  would double the budget outlay for sports promotion in the state when it  formed the government in February-March next year. “We are determined to carry the youth movement forward, ridding society of evils such as drugs and setting of a fresh educational up gradation and placement drive.
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CM INVITES 17 KISSAN MAZDOOR ORGANISATIONS
FOR TALKS ON NOVEMBER 26 AT BATHINDA

 

CHANDIGARH, NOVEMBER 21:

            Following the joint request of 17 Kissan Mazdoor organisations of the state, the Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today invited these organisations for a meeting to discuss their pending issues and demands at Circuit House, Bathinda on November 26.  (Saturday) at 6.30 pm.

            Disclosing this here today, a spokesperson of the Chief Minister’s office said that the state government was alive to all the genuine issues and demands of these organisations and would consider them sympathetically for their permanent resolution through the process of mutual dialogue with all the representatives of these organisations.
It may be recalled here that the concerted efforts and personal initiative of Chief Minister has already led to an amicable solution of the contentious issue of land acquisition for the 1320 MW Peona Thermal Plant at Gobindpura in Mansa district to the satisfaction of the all the stakeholders.

 
PUNJAB GOVERNMENT TO IMPLEMENT ORIGINAL ACP SCHEME FROM MAY 28, 2009
 
Chandigarh, November 21
            The Punjab Government decided to implement the Assured Career Progression (ACP) scheme of November 3, 2006 with effect from May 28, 2009 instead of December 1, 2011.
            A decision to this effect was taken at a high level meeting presided over by the Chief Secretary Mr SC Agrawal, with the delegation of Punjab Mulazam Sangarsh Committee led by its convener Mr. Ranbir Singh Dhillon here at Punjab Bhawan late last evening. The meeting was especially convened at the behest of Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal. 
       Disclosing this here today, a spokesperson of the Punjab Government that it was earlier decided to implement the ACP scheme in the original mode from December 1, 2011.
            Responding to another demand put forth by the delegation, the Chief Secretary decided to now offer various benefits to the different categories of the employees announced by the state government with effect from November 1, 2011 instead of December 1, 2011. The meeting also gave in principle approval to grant conveyance allowance of Rs. 300 per month to the Group `D’ employees. This allowance would be inclusive of the local Travelling Allowance-cum-Miscellaneous allowance already admissible to Group `D’ employees.
            Conceding another demand of the delegation regarding grant of Risk Allowance, an ex-gratia Rs. 5 lac in lump-sum would be admissible in case of death on duty irrespective of the basic pay or group of employees. In case an employee suffered permanent disability due to accident on duty then he would be entitled for ex-gratia amount proportionately as per prescribed the percentage of his disability.
 
            The spokesman further said that the Sangarsh Committee had been invited for talks with the Chief Minister on November 30, 2011 at 6 pm at the Chief Minister’s residence. It was also decided in the meeting to hold the next meeting of the Cabinet Sub Committee comprising of Mr Tikshan Sud, Dr Upinderjeet Kaur and Mr Adesh Partap Singh Kairon (All Cabinet Ministers) on November 26, 2011 at 4 pm to consider the remaining demands of the various employees’ associations, added the spokesman.
Prominent amongst those present in the meeting included Principal Secretary to Chief Minister Mr. DS Guru, Principal Secretary Finance Mr KBS Sidhu, ADGP (Intelligence) Mr. Suresh Arora and Secretary Expenditure Mr Jaspal Singh
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RESULTS OF THE UPCOMING STATE ASSEMBLY ELECTIONS WOULD MAKE MANPREET REALIZE HIS MISTAKE -BADAL

CLAIMS THAT IN DEARTH OF ANY CAPABLE LEADER THE OPPOSITION PARTIES RELYING ON DEFECTORS OF SAD TO TAKE THE ALLIANCE IN COMING ASSEMBLY ELECTIONS

RS 1.5 CRORE DISBURSED FOR DEVELOPMENTAL WORKS IN GIDDERBAHA ASSEMBLY SEGMENT

THREE PROJECTS AT COST OF ABOUT RS 14 CRORE TO PROVIDE BETTER IRRIGATION FACILITIES IN THE REGION

 
Buttar Bakhua (Gidderbaha), November 21-

            Punjab Chief Minister Mr Parkash Singh Badal today said that the results of the upcoming state assembly elections would make former Finance Minister Mr Manpreet Singh Badal realize his mistake of leaving the Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD), as he and his party would be completely routed out from the political arena of the state by the people.

            Addressing the gathering during the Sangat Darshan program of eight villages falling in the Gidderbaha assembly segment, the Chief Minister lamented that the former Finance Minister has ditched his mother party, which had given him coveted positions. Mr Badal said that despite of the fact that he had nurtured the political career of Mr Manpreet by handing over his native assembly constituency of Gidderbaha but his nephew has ditched the party by joining hands with the Congress in a covert manner. However he said that people of the state would never forgive him for this betrayal and they would teach him a befitting lesson in the coming elections. “The elections will prove that people of state do not supports defectors and Manpreet will not get even a single seat in assembly’ he added.  
            Lashing out the rivals of the SAD-BJP alliance the Chief Minister said that the opposition parties do not have any leader of mass appeal who could give fight to the alliance due to which only they were relying on the defectors of the SAD to contest elections in the state. He categorically said that Captain Amarinder Singh, Mr Surjeet Sigh Barnala and Mr Manpreet Singh Badal of Congress, Shiromani Akali Dal (Longowal) and PPP respectively are the defectors of SAD, who have deceived their mother party for their vested interests. “But the people are aware that these people had done nothing for the state and they will teach all these traitors a lesson in coming polls” added Mr Badal.
Assailing the Congress led UPA government of the centre, the Chief Minister said that due to the wrong policies of this government the poor people were reeling under the burden of inflation. He said that the exorbitant and extraneous hike in the petroleum price have not only broken the backbone of the common man but due to the massive hike in agricultural inputs it has also brought the whole of the agricultural community on the brink of economic disaster. The Chief Minister said that it was unfortunate that the government which had assumed power in the name of common man and was doing nothing for their welfare but was extending largesse to the private companies, at the cost of the agony of the poor man. Lamenting the UPA government, he said that all the policies adopted by the Union government are pro-rich and have nothing to do with the welfare of poor adding that all the policies of the UPA government are aimed towards extending benefit to the MNC’s and big private companies.
Criticizing the national planning commission for fixing meager criteria for determining poverty line, Mr Badal said that the members of these bodies sitting in their Air-conditioned offices did not have any idea about the plight of people living in the rural areas but unfortunately they decide yardsticks for the eligibility of BPL families, which is not right.  
Taking note of the woes of the farmers of this cotton heartland of the state, the Chief Minister said that if the Union government removes the ban on export of cotton then the farmers of this region could become prosperous. Talking to the newsmen later Mr Badal said that the decision regarding the allocation of the party tickets to the candidates would be made by the party near the election dates.
  
            Meanwhile in order to ensure regular water supply to the area for providing better irrigation facilities, the Chief Minister also announced three major projects of drainage in the area. He said that the state government would spent Rs 1.22crore on the giving a tail extension to Madheer Sub Minor upto Buttar Bakhua. Likewise he said that Bahua Piori Sub Minor would be constructed at a cost of Rs 3.51crore and the upgradation of Husla and Daula minor under the Kot Bhai distributaries system would be conducted at Rs 9 crore.

            The Chief Minister also disbursed a grant of Rs 1.5 crore for the development of the eight villages falling in the Gidderbaha assembly segment.    
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118.23  LAKH TONNES PADDY PROCURED IN PUNJAB

Chandigarh, November 21:

More than 118.23 lakh tonnes of Paddy was procured by the Government agencies and private millers in Punjab till last evening against 127.56 lakh tonnes procurement of previous year.

                   An Official Spokesman here today said that out of total procurement of 118.23 lakh tonnes of paddy, Government agencies procured 113.91 lakh tonnes (96.4%) and private traders procured 4,31,500 tonnes (3.6%) of paddy till date.
                   He said that PUNGRAIN had procured 33.54 lakh tonnes (29.4%), followed by PUNSUP with 28.26 lakh tonnes (24.8%), MARKFED with 25.88 lakh tonnes (22.7%), PSWC with 12.99 lakh tonnes (11.4%) and  PAIC with 11.40 lakh tonnes (10.0 %) of paddy. The Central Government agency FCI had been able to procure 1,81,474 (1.6%) tonnes.
          Ludhiana District with 14.15 lakh tonnes of procurement was leading in procurement operations whereas Sangrur District with 13.78  lakh tonnes of procurement was at second slot and Patiala District with 11.76 lakh  tonnes of procurement ranked at third position, he added.   
The State Government has set up 1745 procurement centres and activated its total machinery to ensure smooth procurement of paddy, the spokesman added.
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PAK Journalists delegation calls on Badal
CM calls upon pak media to play proactive role

CHANDIGARH, NOVEMBER 20:
           
Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today called upon the Pak Media to play a proactive role in further improving the bilateral relation between India and Pakistan through people to people communication.
            Addressing a 40-member delegation from Lahore Press Club led by its president Mr. Sarmad Bashir here at Punjab Bhawan,  the Chief Minister said that Indian Punjab and Pakistani Punjab shared affinity in language, culture and cuisine. Mr. Badal said, “It was the high time when both the countries should make concerted efforts to sent regular delegation of media, artistes and cultural troops to boost the socio–cultural ties amongst both the nations.” Mr. Badal also emphasized the need for stepping up the Indo-Pak trade across the border for insuring mutual economic stability between both the countries.


            Mr. Badal asked the Ministries of External Affairs of both the countries to relax the viza norms especially for the journalists who could play a vital role in further giving a fillip to the confidence building exercise.
            All the members of the Pakistani delegation expressed their gratitude to the Chief Minister.
Prominent amongst those who were present on the occasion included Media Advisor to the Chief Minister Mr. Harcharn Bains, President Chandigarh Press Club Mr. Naveen Grewal, besides many other senior Journalists and office bearers of Chandigarh Press Club.
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GOBINPURA ISSUE: CM INVITES FARMER ASSOCIATION
FOR TALKS ON NOVEMBER 26 AT BATHINDA

CHANDIGARH, NOVEMBER 20:

            Following the request from the BKU (Ugrahan) Group, Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today invited farmers’ association for a meeting to discuss their demands about the Gobindpura issue at Circuit House Bathinda on November 26. The meeting will be held at 6.30 pm.

            In a statement here the Chief Minister said that he was always open for negotiated solution of all problems related to the land acquisition for the 1320 MW Peona Thermal Plant at Gobindpura in Mansa district. The Chief Minister said SAD-BJP government was the most farmer friendly government in the world. The Chief Minister appealed to the farmers’ association to call off their proposed march to Chandigarh on November 22. He further said that the Government was open to consider all demands in view of its affirmation for discussion on all aspects of the issue across the table.
            Earlier the Government had already introduced land pulling policy in the state to benefit the farmer. He said under this policy private land could only be acquired if the land was needed for a defined public purpose at the actual market rate in addition to thirty per cent solatium in addition to 10 per cent as non-litigation charges to fully compensate the farmers. The state cabinet in its recent meeting decided to give government job to the next of the kin of the deceased who were killed during the agitation and waive off their cooperative loans.  The Cabinet also decided to relax the land acquisition policy in order bring the landless labourers with in the ambit of the adequate compensation provisions.

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BADAL CALLS UPON EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTIONS TO SETUP SCHOOLS & COLLEGES IN KANDI AND BOARDER AREAS
 
CHANDIGARH NOVEMBER 20:

            Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today called upon the educational institutions and educationists working from school to college levels to setup their branches in the far flung rural areas like Kandi and Boarder areas in the state to impart quality and purposeful education to the deprived youth of Punjab.

            Mr. Badal was addressing Sikh intellectuals and renowned educationists   here during 'Panth Rattan Jathedar Gurcharan Singh Tohra Memorial Gurmat Awards function' organized by Sikh Educational Society (SES) as a part of its Platinum Jubilee year 2011-12 Celebrations at Sri Guru Gobind Singh College.   Emphasizing the dire need to give a boost to our educational structure, he said, “It is our moral and social obligation that we should work together to glorify our Punjab and its Punjabiat across the glob, which can only be achieved if we educate our young generation to compete at national as well as international levels”.

Appreciating the commendable efforts of SES in the field of education by establishing number of schools and colleges in the state, Mr. Badal shared his memoirs and said that he was proud to be the student of Sikh National College Lahore which was the first college of the Sikh Educational Society established with a mission to educate Sikh boys and girls.  He said that keeping education sector on priority their government was fully committed to impart quality education in the state. He mentioned that five new universities had been set up and three more had been issued the letters of intent, besides 17 new degree colleges and 21 model schools had also been established to impart quality education to our students in rural areas. He said that the state government had taken several landmark initiatives to revive the trend for recruitment of our youth in the national defence forces, which had been considerably declined in the past. He mentioned two NCC battalions for boys and girls were being established at Ropar and Malout. The Chief Minister further said that their government had also established Maharaja Ranjit Singh Preparatory Institute for Military Training at Mohali to motivate our youth to join the Defence service. This institution had been made functional and the first batch was being imparted training, said Mr. Badal.
On the occasion, Mr. Badal honoured Baba Sewa Singh Khadoor Sahib, Dr. Gurnam Kaur and Dr. NS Sodhi with Panth Rattan Jathedar Gurcharan Singh Tohra Memorial Gurmat Award for their spectacular achievements in their respective fields. On the occasion Mr. Badal also released a Souvenir. Earlier Mr. Badal also inaugurated Bhai Ghanya Block in the premises of the College of Pharmacy of SES. Mr. Badal also announced a grant of Rs. 10 lac for the SES.
On the occasion President Sikh Educational Society Mr. Gurdev Singh Brar IAS (Retd.) presented Sikh National College's group photo of Mr. Badal along with other students of 'Gurbachan Singh Talib Tetorial group' of 1944-45 batch to Mr. Badal.

Earlier, Secretary Sikh Educational Society (SES) Col. (Retd.) Jasmer Singh Bala welcomed the Chief Minister and highlighted the achievements of SES.
Prominent amongst those who were present on the occasion included Chairman, State Farmers Commission, Mr. GS Kalkat, Vice President SES Mr. Kulbir Singh, Principal Sri Guru Gobind Singh College for Women Mrs. Charanjit Kaur and Deputy Director Mr. GS Bahia, besides many more academicians, educationists and literary figures also graced the occasion.
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MODERN MARKETING FACILITIES IN MANDIS OF PUNJAB YET ANOTHER BIG ACHIEVEMENT OF GOVERNMENT: LANGAH

  • DEVELOPED 19 STATE-OF-THE-ART COTTON MANDIS WORTH Rs 57 CRORE DURING LAST FIVE YEARS
  • SET UP FRUIT AND VEGETABLE PACK HOUSES IN 12 MANDIS SPENDING Rs 167 CRORE
  • 26 MANDIS IN KANDI AREA ALSO EQUIPPED WITH ULTRA MODERN FACILITIES OF MARKETING WITH AN ESTIMATED COST OF Rs 46 CRORE
  • 145 MANDIS CONNECTED WITH COMPUTER NETWORKING

CHANDIGARH, NOVEMBER 20: The Punjab Government has achieved an extraordinary task by setting up state-of-the-art new Mandis (grain markets) equipped with modern marketing facilities besides upgrading the standard of old ones worth Rs 670 crores in the state.

          Disclosing this, Agriculture Minister, Mr. Sucha Singh Langah, today said that as per its commitment with the farmers, taking revolutionary steps the SAD-BJP government has furnished the mandis with modern facilities including public conveniences, health facilities, regular power supply and ultra modern electronic machineries. He said that it was yet another achievement of state government to upgrade and constructed state-of-the-art mandis besides starting easy payments to farmers, providing huge subsidies and giving regular power supply.

          Elaborated the steps have been taken during the last five years, Mr. Langah said that SAD-BJP government has developed 19 cotton markets in Punjab worth Rs 57 crores by installing Pacca Farhs, laying state-of-the-art internal roads, installing fire hydrants to protect Kapah and Narma crops from fire, public conveniences, grading laboratories and way-bridges. He said that these facilities encouraged the farmers towards cultivation of these crops and also got increased prices for their quality crops He said that in recent years the government has set up 12 pack houses with a cost of Rs 167 crores at Ludhiana, Patiala, Sangrur, Batala, Phagwara, Kapurthala, Hoshiarpur, Jalandhar, Ferozepur, Abohar, Moga and Bathinda to keep the vegetables and fruits fresh. He said that 19 cold rooms, 52 ripening chamber and 9 grading lines have also been established in these mandis for preservation and improved quality of crops, which were giving fruitful results.
          Mr. Langah said that as many as 2600 electronic weighing machines have been installed in 57 grain markets of Punjab while in 47 mandis ‘Motorised Sweeper Cleaner’ have been setup.

          The agriculture minister said that it is matter of great pride for Punjab that it has started computer networking in the interconnected 145 markets so the farmers of state could get the information and details of arrival of crops in markets besides their price not from the mandis of Punjab only, but also from mandis in India. He said that in 52 mandis display screens have been installed, which provides information and status of crop arrival, rates, production, climatic conditions and forecast whereas in these mandis information centers have also been established for the convenience of farmers.

          Mr. Langah said that the farmers in Kandi areas would not have to face any problems during crop seasons in Mandis since the government has spent Rs 46 crores constructin Pacca Farhs, new roads and cover sheds in 26 mandis of Kandi areas to facilitate farmers. He said that it was also an achievement of SAD-BJP government that in 2008-09, 195 farmers had got training at National Horticulture Training Center, Pune and got aware about the cultivation and production of crops having more benefits.
No: PR-2011/
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RS 92CRORE SANCTIONED FOR UPGRADING INFRASTRUCTURE AT FOCAL POINTS- TIKSHAN SUD

Chandigarh, November 20:   Punjab government today sanctioned Rs. 92 crores to provide all necessary facilities to industrial units established in the focal points and Industrial estates.

          Disclosing this here today Industries Minister Mr. Tikshan Sud today said that instructions have been issued carry out work is on war footing in all the focal points and industrial estates to change the face of  focal points  across the state. He said that this step was being taken with an aim to provide all necessary facilities to attract more industrial investment.
He said that for that he ordered all related authorities to review the progress of all works in fortnightly meetings and submit reports regarding the development of work. He said that all focal points in the state to be provided with 24 hour electricity as this was the basic need for industry. Besides that water, communication network , street lights and green belts would be upgraded in all focal points.

            He said that the biggest amount Rs 22 crore 3 lakh would be spent on  focal points in Ludiana and after that Rs 11 Crore 23 lakh would be spent on focal points at phase 7 and Rs 9 crore 65 lakh on phase 9 in  Mohali. He further said that Rs 3 crore 32 lakh would be spent on focal points in Pathankot, Rs 2 crore 98 lakh at Nabha, Rs 2 crore 23 lakh at Amritsar, Rs 3 crore 86 lakh at Dera Bassi, Rs 6 crore 51 lakh at Sri Goindwal Sahib,Rs 6 crore 20 lakh at Malout, Rs 1 crore 96 lakh at Tanda, Rs 1 crore 79 lakh at Nawanshar, Rs 1 crore 97 lakh Chananloun and Rs 2 Crore 74 lakh at focal points and Industrial estates at Bathinda.
         He said that work at Dera bassi and  Taran Taran have already been completed and deadline of November 30 set for to complete basic facilities and work regarding electricity would be accomplished till December 31.   
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