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CIRCLE KABBADI TO VIE FOR SLOT IN 2016 OLYMPICS IN RIO DE JANEIRO (BRAZIL) - SUKHBIR
CHANDIGARH, OCTOBER 09:
The Punjab Deputy Chief Minister Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal today said successful organisation of First Asian Circle Style Kabaddi at Tabriz (Iran)has strengthened the claim of this traditional game of Punjab for its inclusion in 2016 Rio De Janeiro(Brazil) Olympics. He said that it is indeed a matter of pride for the state the following the last year’s First World Kabaddi Cup held here, the popularity of this game has increased on a grand scale across the world.
Mr. Badal said that the Punjab is all set to host the Second World Kabaddi Cup, beginning from November 1st to November 20 across the state, where 14 international teams would participate besides four international women kabaddi teams. He also added that after the conclusion of this mega event, the organizers of all the participating teams would stake their claims for the inclusion of Kabaddi in the 2016 Olympics since now the Kabaddi has got popularity in the calendar of world renowned games.
Mr. Badal said that during the first World Kabaddi Cup teams of nine nations including India and Pakistan had fought for this prestigious trophy. He said that now with the participation of 8 international Kabaddi teams in the First Asian Circle Style Kabaddi Championship at Tabriz, the path of Kabaddi becoming an Olympic game has become clear. He said that it was also a matter of pride for us that after the successful conduct of World Kabadddi Cup in Punjab, even other Asian countries also adopted Kabaddi and it was the first instance when such a big Kabaddi event was held out of India and Pakistan.
Second World Kabaddi Cup Would Touch new heights of Kabaddi
Punjab Deputy Chief Minister Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal today announced a whopping Rs 2 crore cash award for the winning team in the Second World Kabaddi Cup to be held from November 1st to 20th in Punjab with second prize doubled to Rs. 1 crore. He said that another addition in this mega event will be Four Women Kabaddi teams from India, USA, Iran and UK. He said that the event would be held in 15 villages and cities of Punjab while the Opening ceremony and the semi-final match would be held at Bathinda whereas the concluding match would be played at Ludhiana. He said that this time the matches would also be played in the rustic belts of Punjab including Dhudike of Moga District, Doda of Sri Mukatsar Sahib and Chohla Sahib of Taran Tarn district. He said that number of teams have been increased to 14 this time including India, Pakistan, USA, UK, Canada, Iran, Afghanistan, Australia, Italy, Spain, Argentina, Norway, Germany and Sri Lanka.
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PUNJAB GOVT ANNOUNCES CUSTOM MILLING POLICY FOR KHARIF 2011-12
Chandigarh October 9:
The Punjab Government has announced a scheme for Custom Milling of Kharif 2011-12 to ensure smooth operation of custom milling of Paddy.
According to an official spokesman this paddy would be procured by all procuring agencies including Pungrain, Markfed, Punsup, Punjab State Warehousing Corporation, Punjab Agro Foodgrains Corporation and the Food Corporation of India.
The spokesman further said that paddy procured by the procuring agencies would be got milled from the rice millers of the State as per Punjab Rice Procurement (Levy) Order 1983.
The spokesman said that the purchase centres /mandis should be linked with the nearest milling centre/storage centre keeping in view the availability of milling capacity at the milling/storage center(s) at which paddy is proposed to be stored/got milled.
The policy has laid down very strict norms for shifting the paddy in the state or outside the state to check malpractices and pilferage. The surplus paddy, if any, at a milling centre would be shifted for its storage to the nearest milling centre keeping in view the availability of milling capacity at that centre, he said.
He said in case the nearest milling centre did not have adequate or surplus milling capacity, the surplus paddy would be shifted to the next nearest milling centre and so on.
The spokesman said that for shifting Surplus paddy, if any, available with any procuring agency in a district would be allowed only as per the plan approved by the Director Food & Supplies, Punjab and against the submission of Cash Security / Bank Guarantee / Corporate Bank Guarantee by the millers, where the paddy was proposed to be shifted.
The spokesman further said that any rice mill which has not completed 50% work of custom milling of 2010-11 would not be eligible for lifting paddy under the scheme. Any rice mill located in the State which has completed custom milling work of KMS 2010-11 from 50% to 80% would be entitled lift paddy by depositing cash security.
The rice mill located in the State which has completed the entire custom milling work of KMS 2010 would be entitled lift paddy by depositing cash security under the scheme at the rate of one thousand MT of paddy per tonnes of his milling capacity with a maximum of two thousand tonnes of paddy per unit.
No defaulter rice mill shall be considered for allotment/provisional registration.
Punjab Government announces 50% subsidy on vegetable cultivation
Chandigarh, October 9:
Punjab government today announced 50% subsidy on vegetable farming to boost the vegetable production in the state.
Disclosing this here today Agriculture Minister Mr. Sucha Singh Langah said that the government would provide grant under National Agriculture Development Scheme to the farmers for making Net Houses for the cultivation of vegetables. He said that under this scheme a one time grant of Rs.50,000/-for a Net House in 500 square meter area would be provided to low and medium farmers.
He said that Punjab government would also provide 50% subsidy on pesticide and anti fungus medicines in order to increase the quality of the vegetables, and to increase the per unit income of the farmers. He said that the subsidy would be 50% which would be maximum to Rs.6000/-per farmer.
He said that under a separate National Vegetable Initiative Scheme per hectare subsidy for the cultivation of vegetable was also provided to the farmers which range form Rs 25,500/- to 33,750/-per hectare. He said that assuming Ludhiana a center this scheme would be implemented in Patiala, Fatehgarh Sahib, Jallander and Sangrur districts. He said that beside this a provision of 50% subsidy was also made for setting up retail outlets, vegetable collection centers ,mobile vending card and processing units for marketing of vegetables.
Mr. Langah said that the farmers could contact the District Horticulture Director to avail such facilities. He said that the farmer could get high yield to early and late vegetable by the technique of Net House cultivation of vegetable.
PUNJAB SIMPLIFIES AND DECENTRALIZES THE PROCEDURE TO ISSUE DISABILITY CERTIFICATES
CHANDIGARH, OCTOBER 9:
The Punjab Government today simplified and decentralized the process for issue of disabilities certificate. According to the new guidelines a single specialized doctor can issue a certificate in this regard and a notification to implement the new guidelines has been issued today.
Disclosing this spokesman of the Punjab Government said that the government has decentralized the authority of issue of disabilities certificate. He said that earlier the certificates were being issued by the medical board comprising of at least three members. He said that under the new simplified procedure a disabilities certificate could be issued by a single doctor in case of permanent paralysis of limbs and blindness.
He said that in case of multiple disabilities a certificate could be issued by a committee of specialist. He said that multiple member board would be required only for multiple disabilities and not for single disability like paralysis and blindness.
He said that all the District Hospitals, Sub-Divisional Hospitals, Community Health Centers and primary health centers had been authorized to issue a certificate. He said that under new guidelines a certificate for obvious disability (amputation, complete permanent paralysis of limbs and blindness) Medical Superintendent, SMO or any designated officer in district hospital, Sub Divisional Hospital, Community Health Centre, Primary Health Centre could issue a certificate.
He said that in case of multiple disabilities a medical board specified by Medical Superintendent of Senior Medical Officer in all district hospitals and Sub Divisional Hospitals could issue disability certificate subject to the hospital having specialist/ necessary measurements and equipments.
The Spokesperson further said that in case of the concerned hospitals did not have the requisite assessment facilities for various disabilities. The Head of such hospital could refer the case to a near by hospital having proper infrastructure and equipments. He said that medical college where such case can be referred included Government Medical College Amritsar, Government Medical College Patiala , Government Medical College Faridkot , Christian Medical College Ludhiana, Dyanand Medical College Ludhiana, Sri Guru Ram Dass Medical College Amritsar, Gian Sagar Medical College Banur, Adesh Medical College Bathinda , Punjab Institute of Medical Sciences Jalandhar, Government Medical College Sector-32 Chandigarh and PGI Chandigarh.
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INFORMATION & PUBLIC RELATIONS DEPARTMENT, PUNJAB
Paddy procurement touches 1130514 tonnes mark
Chandigarh, October 9: Paddy procurement has picked up in Punjab with Government agencies and private traders procuring 1130514 tonnes of Paddy till yesterday.
Out of total procurement of 1130514 tonnes of paddy in all the procurement centers of Punjab, Government agencies procured 1122401 tonnes of paddy (90.4%) till date whereas private traders procured 108113 tonnes (9.6%) of paddy. Till October 8, PUNGRAIN had procured 302588 tonnes (29.6%) whereas MARKFED procured 211637 tonnes (20.7%). PUNSUP procured 259699 tonnes (25.4%) , PSWC procured 121971 tonnes (11.9%) whereas PAIC was able to procure 118960 tonnes (11.6 %) of paddy.
The Central Government agency FCI had been able to procure 7546 (0.7%) tonnes.
The spokesman added that District Tarn Taran with 161039 tonnes of procurement was leading in procurement operations whereas District Jalandhar with 139986 tonnes of procurement was at second slot and district Kapurthala with 127073 tonnes of procurement ranked at third position.
The State Government has set up 1745 procurement centers and activated its total machinery to ensure smooth procurement of paddy, the spokesman added.
CM CONDOLES THE SAD DEMISE OF FORMER MLA DEVINDER SINGH
CHANDIGARH OCTOBER 9:
Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today expressed profound grief and sorrow over the sad demise of Former MLA Mr. Devinder Singh the father of Justice Mahtab Singh Gill, after a prolonged illness. He was 90 and survived by four daughters and a son.
In a condolence message, Mr. Badal said that Mr. Devinder Singh was a disciplined solder of SAD, who had always worked relentlessly to propagate the policies and programs of the party amongst the masses. The Chief Minister shared his heartfelt sympathies with the members of the bereaved family and prayed to the Almighty to grant peace to the departed soul and give strength and courage to them to bear this irreparable loss.
PRESTIGIOUS DEFENCE SERVICE CENTRE FOR PUNJAB
BADAL ANNOUNCES A SLEW OF MAJOR PROJECTS
CHANDIGARH OCTOBER 8:
The Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today announced that the prestigious National Service Selection Center for Armed Forces would be set up at Ropar in Punjab. The Center, which had been a long pending demand of Punjabis in general and the ruling party in particular would come up over an area of 200 acres which was being made available to the armed forces by the Punjab government.
The decision of the Ministry of Defence to this effect was conveyed to the Chief Minister by the Chief of Staff of the Indian army during their meeting in New Delhi on Thursday.
The Chief Minister's announcement formed a part of the statement he was scheduled to make in the Punjab Vidhan Sabha today. The statement was later placed on the record of the House.
In another significant announcement, Mr. Badal disclosed that Borlaug Institute for South Asia (BISA) for research and promotion of maize & wheat would come over 500 acres at Ladowal near Ludhiana. The Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh has agreed to lay the foundation stone of this world class Institute in November. The Institute would be a joint initiative of the Government of India and the renowned Mexico-based International Agricultural Research Center, CIMMYT. The government of India and CIMMYT would spend Rs 600 crore for the setting up of this premier house of advanced research.
Mr. Badal also announced the completion of the world class Khalsa Heritage Memorial Complex, Anandpur Sahib, his dream project started during the tercentenary celebrations of the birth of Khalsa would also be dedicated to entire mankind by the Prime Minister next month. The Rs.292 crore project would be inaugurated and formally dedicated to the entire mankind by Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh in November.
Mr. Badal also mentioned that the prestigious Rs.19000 crore Guru Gobind Singh Refinery, Bathinda has been completed and the production of high value petroleum products has begun which would open new vistas of development and prosperity in the state. We got this refinery sanctioned from the former Prime Minister Mr. Atal Behari Vajpayee after strenuous efforts but it was put on hold by the previous government immediately after taking reins. We got it restarted in 2007 immediately when we took office to realize the dreams of the Punjabis.
Mr. Badal also said that it was a matter of sheer honor and pride for him to inform the august house that the Punjab government had taken a major initiative to construct three historic memorials to perpetuate the legacy of rich heritage of Punjab for the future generations. A memorial was being built to showcase the victory of Sikh forces at a battle heroically fought and won by great warrior Baba Banda Singh Bahadur at Chapar Chiri in district SAS Nagar. Likewise, two memorials in the memory of Chhota and Wadda Ghallughara were being constructed as a befitting tribute towards the two most important events in the history of Punjab in which 5000 and 35000 Sikhs were martyred respectively.
Mr. Badal regretted that his party’s effort in completely removing the atmosphere of bitterness from the state’s atmosphere has not received response which it deserved from the opposition. He said that he had always welcomed constructive criticism and respected it as a fundamental right of the opposition but the political opponents of the government often indulged in unseemly and petty mudslinging.
PUNJAB CM MOVES RESOLUTION IN STATE ASSEMBLY
DEMANDS IMMEDIATE ROLL BACK OF UNREASONABLE HIKE IN THE PRICES OF FERTILIZERS BY CENRE
CHANDIGARH OCTOBER 8:
The Punjab Vidhan Sabha today unanimously passed the resolution moved by Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal demanding that Centre should immediately roll back the unreasonable hike in the prices of fertilizers.
The resolution described the decision of Centre as ‘anti-farmer’ and a step to vanish the agriculture sector. The resolution reads as, “This house expresses its deep concern and anguish over the recent hike in the prices of fertilizers, nearly doubled by the GoI. The Centre had been increasing the prices of agriculture inputs and virtually broken the back of the beleaguered farming community.
During the last one year the prices of DAP had been increased from Rs. 537/- per bag to Rs. 910/- per bag and Potash had been hike from Rs. 252.75/- to Rs. 565/- per bag. The prices of Urea being a controlled fertilizer had touched Rs. 268/- per bag.
The resolution further mentioned that approximately 25 lac tones of urea, 8.50 lac tones of DAP and 1 lac tones of potash is consumed in the state every year. The recent hike in the prices of fertilizers has put an additional burden of Rs. 800 crore on the farmers of the state. A farmer on an average, who spent nearly Rs. 1500 per acre for the production of wheat-paddy earlier, would have to now spend approximately Rs. 2800 per acre.
There had been a hefty hike in prices of commodities meant for the consumption of general public due to high inflation, whereas there had not been any corresponding hike in the prices of farming products. Consequently, the agriculture profession had become far more non-profitable profession due to the recent hike in the prices of fertilizers, the resolution added.
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Festival Season:
§ Health Minister, Satpal Gosain warns against Food Adulteration
§ Says Department Geared up to ensure sale of Hygienic Eatables
§ Asks District Health Authorities to promptly deal with Food
Adulteration complaints.
Chandigarh, 8th October, 2011
Sh Satpal Gosain, Health & Family Welfare Minister, Punjab here today stated that all the Civil Surgeons and District Health Officials have been directed to strictly ensure the sale of only clean and hygienic eatables in their districts in view of the oncoming festival season. He said that the Health Department has already pulled the strings and is fully geared up to ensure sale of only pure, adulteration-free and hygienic eatables to the people. He told that special directions have been given to keep a vigil over the sale of milk products and sweets like khoa, ghee etc. All districts health officials have been asked to step-up routine sampling to check adulteration and seize or destroy unhygienic items. The Government Food Testing Laboratories too have been directed to provide the reports of the samples at the earliest. The special drive has been launched in view of the heavy demand for the milk and milk products in the markets during the coming festival season, during which certain nefarious elements try to make fast buck by selling adulterated food items and sweet products. Health Minister added that anyone found indulging in sale of adulterated food items or milk products will be dealt with sternly by the health department. At times adulterated Khoa and paneer is also pilfered from across the state borders and to deal with such attempts, the health officials have been asked to maintain a stern vigil in the border areas. Sh Gosain urged the sweet shop owners and milk traders to provide only clean and healthy eatables to the people. He said anyone found violating the Prevention of Food Adulteration Act will not be spared and appropriate legal action will be pursued against the defaulter. Health Minister also appealed the people to provide information regarding any suspected food adulteration to the concerned district health authority, who in turn have been told to deal with their complaints in a prompt manner. Sh Gosain further told that Government is determined to act tough on the chemists and other people indulging in illegal sale of habit forming drugs and intoxicants. He warned such people not to play with the lives and health of people by indulging in any such illegal sale of habit forming drugs etc, and said that once caught, no mercy will be shown towards such violators.
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CM ASSAILS CACP FOR MEAGER HIKE IN MSP OF WHEAT BY RS.230
DEMANDS RE-FIXATION OF MSP FOR WHEAT AT RS.2200 PER QUINTAL
CHANDIGARH OCTOBER 07:
Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today out rightly rejected the proposed MSP of Rs.1350 per quintal for Wheat for 2012-13 as suggested by the Commission for Agriculture Cost and Prices (CACP) and demanded re-fixation at Rs.2200 per quintal as MSP to compensate the farmers for an exorbitant hike in the cost of agricultural inputs.
In a statement, Mr. Badal said that the non-remunerative MSP coupled with anti-farmer policies of Centre was primarily responsible for the slowdown of the agricultural growth. The Chief Minister said that though his government had been constantly pleading the case of Punjab's beleaguered peasantry which was in great distress and agony and demanded MSP of at least Rs.2200/- per quintal of wheat from the Government of India in line with the escalation of agricultural inputs. He said that the factors like withdraw of subsidy on fertilizers and consequently nearly three fold hike in the cost of DAP fertilizers had put the farmers in quandary and therefore, it was obligatory on the part of the GoI to announce an adequate hike in the MSP of Wheat at least by Rs.1080 instead of Rs.230 per quintal as recommended by CACP.
Mr. Badal reiterated the CACP should re-fix the Minimum Support Price (MSP) of the Wheat at Rs.2200 per quintal for the Rabi 2012-13 in accordance with the prevalent cost of the inputs in market. He said that the state Agriculture department had worked out the MSP for the crops in consultation with experts of the Punjab Agricultural University Ludhiana in view of the recent escalation in the prices of agriculture inputs like seeds, fertilizers, pesticides, diesel besides cost involved on irrigation and labour.
Mr. Badal lamented that it was a paradoxical situation that Centre was not paying any heed to fix MSP by providing a margin of 50% over the cost of production to the farmers as suggested by an agricultural economist Dr. MS Swaminathan to ensure remunerative prices of their produce to the farmers rather recklessly importing wheat at a much higher prices.
The Centre should had at least realized the immense contribution of Punjab farmers to make our country self sufficient in food production to ensure national food security before announcing this unreasonable increase in MSP of Wheat, added Mr. Badal.
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CM CALLS ON ANTONY ; SEEKS IMMEDIATE SANCTION OF TWO NCC BATTALIONS IN PUNJAB
ANTONY LAUDS CM’S INITIATIVE TO ESTABLISH MAHARAJA RANJIT SINGH PREPARATORY INSTITUTE AT MOHALI
CHANDIGARH OCTOBER 07:
Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today urged the Union Defence Minister Mr. AK Antony to immediately sanction two new NCC battalions in the state, one for boys at Ropar and another for girls at Malout in district Muktsar.
The Chief Minister called on Mr. Antony in his office in the Ministry of Defence in South Block, New Delhi this morning.
Taking part in the deliberations, Mr. Badal apprised the Union Defence Minister that both the newly constructed buildings over six acre of land at Ropar and Malout were near completion and requested him to accord sanction expeditiously. He pointed out that the said proposal for the sanction of two new NCC Battalions had already been sent to the Ministry of Defence after duly recommended by the Additional Director General Punjab and Director General NCC.
Responding to the issue raised by Mr. Badal, the Union Defence Minister assured of positive response and said that he would soon convene a meeting of senior officers of his Ministry to resolve the issue at the earliest.
Meanwhile, Mr. Antony also appreciated the efforts of the Chief Minister for motivating the state’s youth to join the Defence service through his unique initiative by establishing Maharaja Ranjit Singh Preparatory Institute for Military Training at Mohali. Mr. Antony also told the Chief Minister that he would soon visit the institute and interact with the aspirants being imparted training to join Defence services.
Mr. Badal was accompanied by his Special Principal Secretary Mr. KJS Cheema.
BADAL CALLS ON PM TO EXTEND INVITATION FOR INAUGURATION OF KHC AT SRI ANANDPUR SAHIB AND FOUNDATION LAYING CEREMONY OF SHAHEED BHAGAT SINGH INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT, MOHALI
PM ASSURES BADAL OF POSITIVE RESPONSE ON ALL ISSUES RAISED BY HIM
CHANDIGARH OCTOBER 7:
Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today called on the Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh personally to extend invitation for inauguration of prestigious Khalsa Heritage Centre (KHC) at Sri Anandpur Sahib, slated to be inaugurated in the first fortnight of November. The Chief Minster also urged Dr. Singh to lay the foundation stone of Shaheed Bhagat Singh International Airport, Mohali at his convenience.
Mr. Badal met the Prime Minister at his official residence in New Delhi this afternoon.
The Prime Minister accepted Mr. Badal’s request in principle and the dates for these two events would be finalized by the Prime Minister’s Office in consultation with the state government.
Disclosing this here today a spokesperson of the Chief Minister’s Office said that Mr. Badal also thanked the Prime Minister for establishing the prestigious ‘Borlaug Institute for South Asia’ (BISA) in the state at Ludhiana under the auspices of Mexico-based International Maize and Wheat Improvement Centre (CIMMYT). Mr. Badal also hoped that this Institute would prove to be a mile stone to herald the second green revolution by encouraging the value added crops like Maize and Oil seeds ultimately helping our farmers to come out of the rut of wheat-paddy cycle.
Mr. Badal also especially thanked Dr. Singh for the latter’s personal role in getting the general elections to the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee conducted in September.
Taking part in the deliberations, the Chief Minister Chief Minister also sought the personal intervention of Dr. Singh to direct the Ministry of Housing, Urban Development and Poverty Alleviation for the expeditious clearance of HUDCO loan of Rs.750 crore to fulfill the state government’s major initiative for providing basic amenities viz. roads, streets, sewerage, water supply, street lighting etc. in the urban sector. Mr. Badal reiterated that the loan was meant for providing basic civic amenities for people living in all urban areas of the state and therefore, the repayment of loan had been ensured through an Act by escrowing a Dedicated Revenue Stream in addition to the state guarantee.
The Chief Minister also urged Dr. Singh to immediately release Rs. 94.40 crore for the upcoming memorials for the martyrs of Chhota Ghallughara at Kahnuwan in Gurdaspur district, Wadda Ghallughara at village Kup Rohira in district Sangrur and the victory of Sikh forces at a battle heroically fought and won by great warrior Baba Banda Singh Bahadur at Chapar Chiri in district Mohali.
Mr. Badal demanded also raised the issue for the enhancement of time period for the execution of restoration works of infrastructure damaged due to floods from the current 45 days to 6 to 9 months as it was not feasible to undertake the completion of these works in such a short span. He also took up the matter with Dr. Singh for the upward revision of the norms for payment of relief to the affected farmers under State Disaster Relief Fund (SDRF). He mentioned that the existing relief norms were inadequate and just Rs.1600 per acre in case of 100% crop loss which should be at least enhanced to Rs.10,000 per acre.
Responding to the various issues raised by Mr. Badal, the Prime Minister assured the Chief Minister of positive response and said that he would soon get all these matters examined from the concerned Ministries expeditiously for early and effective response from the Centre.
FEIAP ENGINEER OF THE YEAR AWARD 2011 BESTOWED UPON LT. GEN. (RETD.) BS DHALIWAL AT SINGAPORE
BADAL FELICITATES LT. GEN.DHALIWAL FOR SHEER HONOR BEING FIRST INDIAN TO RECEIVE INTERNATIONAL AWARD
CHANDIGARH OCTOBER 07:
Federation of Engineering Institutions of Asia and the Pacific (FEIAP) conferred the ‘FEIAP Engineer of the Year Award 2011’ on the Lt. Gen. (Retd.) BS Dhaliwal, Advisor (Technical) to the Punjab Chief Minister for his outstanding contribution in the field of Engineering through his distinguished career, spanning 41 years, in the corps of the Engineers of the Indian Army and over three years with the Punjab government.
It may be recalled that Lt. Gen. Dhaliwal was the first Indian recipient to be honored with this prestigious award along with Prof. Su Guaning from Singapore during the 33rd anniversary of FEIAP at Singapore on October 4.
Lauding the spectacular achievement of Lt. Gen. Dhaliwal the Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal felicitated him saying that he has not only done proud to Punjab but also the country through this rare feat. Mr. Badal said, “Lt. Gen. Dhaliwal’s tremendous capabilities and acumen has enabled him to be honored with the coveted ‘FEIAP Engineer of the Year Award 2011’. He has rendered outstanding services in the sphere of military engineering during the terminal phase of ‘Operation PARAKRAM’ besides promoting eco conservation. Describing Lt. Gen. Dhaliwal as a visionary totally committed to the improvement of infrastructure development especially in the rural and border areas, Mr. Badal said that the Punjab Government feels honored in Lt. Gen. Dhaliwal’s success.
On the occasion of conferment of the FEIPA award on Lt. Gen. Dhaliwal the citation read as : “Striving for perfection, in this age of mediocrity, his mode of leadership and supervisory qualities are manifest and conveyed by example. He has always encouraged an environment that promotes leadership and initiative at all levels, open to ideas, and focoussing on results and managing rather than avoiding risk giving greater flexibility in managing resources and priorities. To sum up, the FEIAP Engineer of the year – 2011 is a Soldier and a Gentleman, and above all an engineer par excellence”. Minister of Health of Singapore Mr. Gan Kim Yong bestowed FEIAP Engineer of the Year Award 2011 on Lt. Gen. Dhaliwal.
Lt. Gen. Dhaliwal immediately after his superannuation in August, 2007 was picked up as Advisor (Technical) to Chief Minister Punjab. He with his meticulous sense of professional organization has revamped the system to bring in much greater transparency and accountability by initiating a number of steps in quality control to ensure timely completion of projects with least time and cost over runs.
Lt. Gen. Dhaliwal has been recipient of many distinctions, awards and honours at national as well as international level. To mention few, he was awarded the ‘Golden Peacock Award for Eco-Innovation’ by the World Environment Foundation and ‘Admiral Kohli Trophy’ for lifetime achievement in Sailing.
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SUKHBIR REJECTS PROPOSED MSP FOR WHEAT, DEMANDS MINIMUM Rs 2200 MSP
- INCREASE IN MSP SHOULD IN CONSONANCE WITH INCREASE IN PRICE OF AGRICULTURE INPUTS INCLUDING FERTILIZERS
- CRITICISES UPA GOVERNMENT FOR SLOW LIFTING OF GRAIN FROM PUNJAB
- DEMANDS EXPORT OF WHEAT AND RICE TO WEST-ASIAN AND GULF COUNTRIES THROUGH WAGAH BORDER
CHANDIGARH/AMRITSAR, OCTOBER 7
The Punjab Deputy Chief Minister Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal, today rejected the proposed Rs 1350 MSP for wheat for 2012-13 Rabbi crop as suggested by Agriculture Cost Price Commission (ACPC) and demanded minimum Rs 2200 MSP in consonance with step hike in cost of agriculture inputs.
Talking to media persons here today after dedicating to the people of Amritsar seven development projects with combined cost of Rs 138 crore, Mr. Badal said that it is matter of great regret that on one hand the price of DAP fertilizers has risen from Rs 437 per bag during last season to 1125 per bag this season due to withdrawal of subsidy on fertilizer, the Congress led UPA government was trying to befool the people by announcing meager hike of Rs 230. He said that Shiromanin Akali Dal had been demanding implementation of recommendations of Swaminathan Commission, linking MSP of Agriculture produce with cost of agriculture inputs but congress party to protect the interests of multinational companies was scuttling its proposal. He said that on one hand they have decontrolled the sale of fertilizers, giving freedom to the companies to fix price as per their whims, resulting in more than doubling price of DAP within six months but trying to befool the people by meager hike in MSP. He said that Shiromani Akali Dal would not sit quite till hike in MSP of wheat was not in consonance with hike in price of DAP.
Lashing at Congress led UPA Government for deliberately slowing the movement of old procured paddy from Punjab to other beneficiary states through rail routes, Mr. Badal said that congress party was trying to create problems in the procurement of paddy this season. He said that Punjab government had been requesting union government to expedite the movement of grain from Punjab, allocate more funds to the state for making storage space for procure wheat and paddy besides additional allocation for post harvest technology. He said that SAD-BJP government has already activated procurement machinery in 1745 procurement centers in the state and would ensure smooth procurement of every grain from the Mandis of the state. He said that the state government has already tied up the funds allocation to ensure payments to the farmers within 72 hours of lifting of produce from the Mandis.
Demanding open trade of wheat and rice, the Deputy Chief Minister said that farmers of Punjab should be allowed to export wheat and rice to other countries through land route via Wagah border. He said that there was a great demand for Indian wheat and Basmati rice in the Gulf countries especially in Iran, Iraq and Afghanistan and Punjabi farmers can benefit a lot if they were allowed export of their agriculture produce to these countries.
Earlier, Mr. Badal laid the foundation stones of Amritsar-Ajnala Airport road worth Rs. 18.57 Crore, flyover at Kitchloo Chowk worth Rs. 22 Crore, Heritage Village in GNDU campus worth Rs. 12 Crore, four lanning of Majitha road worth Rs. 8.34 Crore, development works of Goal Bagh worth Rs. 5 Crore, CCTV Cameras at police station C-Division worth 3.80 Crore, multilane high level bridge on UBDC worth Rs. 25.30 Crore, four lanning of road along side UBDC canal in front of police post at Taran Wala bridge worth Rs. 9.21 Crore and 8 lanning of Amritsar gate to Bhandari bridge at Amritsar Jalandhar GT Road worth Rs. 34 Crore besides inaugurating trade fair ‘Destination Punjab-2011’ by CII.
Prominent amongst others Mr. Tikshan Sud, Minister for Industries, Mr. Navjot Singh Sidhu, MP, Mr. Bikram Singh Majithia, former minister, Inderbir Singh Bularia, Chief Parliamentary Secretary, Mr. Shawet Malik, Mayor Amritsar, Mr. Harpal Singh Past Chairman, CII Northern Region and Mrs. Kamna Raj Aggarwala, Chairperson of CII Punjab were also present on the occasion.
582365 TONNES PADDY PROCURED IN PUNJAB
Chandigarh, October 7: Government agencies and private millers procured more than 582365 tonnes of Paddy till last evening against 1136992 tonnes procurement of previous year.
Out of total procurement of 582365 tonnes of paddy in all the procurement centers of Punjab, Government agencies procured 506748 tonnes of paddy (87.0%) till date whereas private traders procured 75617 tonnes (13.0%) of paddy. Till October 6, PUNGRAIN had procured 173037 tonnes (34.1%) whereas MARKFED procured 100739 tonnes (19.9%). PUNSUP procured 111958 tonnes (22.1%) , PSWC procured 59689 tonnes (11.8%) whereas PAIC was able to procure 59157 tonnes (11.7 %) of paddy.
The Central Government agency FCI had been able to procure 2168 (0.4%) tonnes.
The spokesman added that District Tarn Taran with 97555 tonnes of procurement was leading in procurement operations whereas District Kaputhala with 73342 tonnes of procurement was at second slot and district Jalandhar with 67898 tonnes of procurement ranked at third position.
The State Government has set up 1745 procurement centres and activated its total machinery to ensure smooth procurement of paddy, the spokesman added.
GMADA TO PROVIDE HOUSES TO THE ECONOMICALLY WEAKER SECTIONS
Chandigarh, October 7:
GMADA has framed a policy to provide affordable housing for the economically weaker sections (EWS) of the society including the poor particularly living in slum.
Disclosing this here today, a spokesperson of the Punjab Government said that according to the newly formulated policy, 40 percent of land reserved for EWS, in mega projects as well as in colonies licensed under the Punjab Apartment and Property Regulation Act, 1995 will be de-reserved for use by the developers/promoters as residential plots/flats in lieu and promoters/developers shall construct specified number of EWS flats on the remaining 60 percent area as per the drawings and specifications approved by GMADA alongwith the common infrastructure/amenities.
PRESS NOTE
CHANDIGARH, 7 OCTOBER:
Punjab Government has extended the term of Mr. Daleep Singh Pandhi Ex-Minister and Mr. Prakash Singh Gardiwala Ex-MLA as non-official members of the Punjab State Commission for Scheduled Castes for further three years under section 4(1) of the Punjab state Commission for Scheduled Castes Act, 2004 as amended vide Notification issued on September 29,2006.
Disclosing this here today a spokesman of the Welfare Department said that a notification in this regard has already been issued.
CHTTOPADHYAY PROMOTED AS ADGP
Chandigar, October 7 : Mr. S. Chttopadhyay, IPS, Inspector General of Police has been promoted to the rank of Additional Director General of Police in the pay scale of H.A.G. 67000-(annual increment @ 3%) 79000 from the date of his joining back from central deputation i.e. 05-07-2011.
No: PR/11/622
BHOOMI PUJAN OF SAINIK SADAN ON OCTOBER 10
Chandigarh October 7: A long pending requirement of a composite Sainik Sadan which shall be a one stop shop for all the requirements of Ex-servicemen of this region said Col Harvinderpal Singh, Director Sainik Welfare, Punjab. It shall house a Training Academy for the Ex-servicemen and their wards for various courses including Computer/IT Courses, Personality Development Courses, Training for Civil Services etc. It shall also have a CSD Outlet, ECHS Polyclinic District Sainik Welfare Office, Mohali and Sainik Rest House and residential accommodation for the students under training.
Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal, has very kindly consented to perform the Bhumi Pujan and start the construction of this Sainik Sadan. Col Singh expressed his gratitude and said that this has been made possible only due to timely allotment of funds by the Hon'ble Chief Minister, Punjab. This Sainik Sadan is being constructed on a very prime piece of land of Appx 1.77 acres in the heart of Mohali and very close to the upcoming International Air Port, Railway Station and Bus Stand. This shall work as a unique hub of all requirements of Ex-servicemen of Punjab. The Ex-servicemen fraternity is grateful to the Hon'ble Chief Minister, Punjab for his generous thinking towards the Ex-Servicemen of Punjab.
2. On this day a State level Ex-servicemen rally is also being held where a large number of Ex-servicemen ,Serving officers, Gallantry Award Winners, Veer Naris & their wards, are being addressed by CM, Punjab. The function will be presided over by Capt Balbir Singh Bath, Minister for Defence Services Welfare, Punjab.
POSTING AND TRANSFER ORDERS OF THREE PCS OFFICERS
Chandigarh October 7 :-
The Punjab Government today issued posting and transfer orders of the three PCS officers with immediate effect.
Disclosing this here today a spokesman of the Punjab Government said that Ajmer Singh PCS available for posting is hereby posted as SDM Dharmkot relieving Mr. Joram Beda IAS from this additional charge.
Likewise Mr. Rajinder Pal Singh PCS SDM Ajnala will also look after the additional charge of SLAC Amritsar. Mr. Paramjit Singh PCS SDM Batala will also look after the additional charge of SLAC Gurdaspur.
No.PR-11/ 623
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PUNJAB CM & Dy. CM CONDOLES THE SAD DEMISE
OF THE NEPHEW OF Mrs. BHATTAL
CHANDIGARH OCTOBER 5, 2011
Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today expressed profound grief and sorrow over the sad demise of Mr. Jagroop Singh nephew of Leader of opposition in the Punjab Vidhan Sabha Mrs. Rajinder Kaur Bhattal.
In a condolence message Mr. Badal shared his heartfelt sympathies with the members of the bereaved family and prayed to the Almighty to grant peace to the departed soul and give strength and courage to them to bear this irreparable loss.
Meanwhile, the Deputy Chief Minister Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal also mourned the untimely death of Mr. Jagroop Singh.
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ICELAND AMBASSADOR CALLS ON CM
VIE TO DEVELOP TOURISM CENTRE IN PUNJAB
CHANDIGARH OCTOBER 5:
Iceland Ambassador Mr. Gudmundur Eiriksson today called on Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal and evinced keen interest to set up Tourism centre in Punjab.
Taking part in the deliberations during a meeting with Mr. Badal at Chief Minister’s residence this morning, Mr. Gudmundur apprised him that Tourism was second largest business sector in their country after Fishery. Appreciating the congenial atmosphere in the state, he said that the bilateral cooperation between the Iceland and India, especially the Punjab could give a boost to the huge potential in tourism sector. He also presented a philosophical book of rare sayings of 13th century to Mr. Badal.
Mr. Badal assured the Ambassador of Iceland that Punjab government would extend fulsome support and cooperation to explore the un-taped tourism potential in the state.
On the occasion, the Chief Minister honoured the visiting envoy by presenting a memento as a token of love and affection on behalf of the Punjabis. Mr. was accompanied by his Special Principal Secretary Mr. KJS Cheema in the meeting.
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CM GREETS PEOPLE ON DUSSHERA
CHANDIGARH OCTOBER 05:
The Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today felicitated the people of Punjab on the auspicious occasion of Dusshera festival.
In a message, Mr Badal said that Dusshera symbolizes the triumph of good over evil and shows us the way of ideal and virtuous living to carve out a prosperous and harmonious society. The Chief Minister said that such festivals not only cement the bonds of communal harmony, universal brotherhood and amity but also bring joy and bounty on one hand and depicts our rich cultural heritage on the other besides also act as a source of inspiration for a life of righteous action.
The Chief Minister appealed to the people to celebrate this joyous occasion in unison with religious fervor and gaiety rising above the parochial considerations of caste, color, creed and religion.
…
SUKHBIR GREETS PEOPLE ON THE EVE OF DUSSEHRA
Chandigarh, October 5: Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal, Deputy Chief Minister, Punjab today greeted the people of the state on the eve of Dussehra, also known as Vijaydashmi.
In a message, the Deputy Chief Minister said Dussehra reminds people of the universal truth of virtue triumphing over darkness. "The festival of Vijaydashmi strengthens our belief in the inevitability of the victory of righteousness over evil", Mr. Badal said.
He said the festivals are a glorious heritage of the pluralistic ethos of Punjab, which further strengthens the spirit of harmony and tranquility among various segments of the people. The Deputy Chief Minister urged the people of the state to celebrate the festival with traditional gaiety and fervor, continuing fraternity, harmony and love for each and every one.
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PUNJAB GOVERNMENT TRANSFERRED 5 IAS OFFICERS
Chandigarh, October 5: The Punjab government today ordered to transferred and posting of 5 IAS officers with immediate effect.
The spokesman of the Punjab government said that Sh. Karan A.Singh has been transferred and posted as Principal Secretary to the government of Punjab, department of Health & Family Welfare and in addition Project Director, AIDS control society and Commissioner for Food. Sh. Satish Chandra, IAS has been transferred and posted as Principal Secretary to Government of Punjab, department of Planning and Special Economic Package and in addition Ex-officio Member Secretary of the Social Development and governance Reforms Commission. Smt. Kalpana Mitttal Baruah, IAS has been transferred and posted as Chairman, Punjab State Board of Technical Education and Industrial Training. Sh. S.K. Sandhu, IAS has been transferred and posted as Secretary to the Government of Punjab, department of PWD (B&R) and in addition Commissioner, Roopnagar Division, Roopnagar and in addition Secretary to the government of Punjab department of Sports and Youth Services and in addition Secretary to the government of Punjab, department of Housing and Urban Development. Sh. Sarvjit Singh, IAS has been transferred and posted as Chief Administrator, GMADA, SAS Nagar and in addition Commissioner, Municipal Corporation, SAS Nagar and in addition Chief Administrator, GLADA, Ludhiana.
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182278 TONNES PADDY PROCURED IN PUNJAB
Chandigarh, October 5: Government agencies and private millers procured more than 182278 tonnes of Paddy till last evening against 611424 tonnes procurement of previous year.
Out of total procurement of 182278 tonnes of paddy in all the procurement centers of Punjab, Government agencies procured 142834 tonnes of paddy (78.4%) till date whereas private traders procured 39444 tonnes (21.6%) of paddy. Till October 4, PUNGRAIN had procured 66666 tonnes (46.7%) whereas MARKFED procured 20486 tonnes (14.3%). PUNSUP procured 24492 tonnes (17.1%) , PSWC procured 16523 tonnes (11.6%) whereas PAIC was able to procure 14573 tonnes (10.2 %) of paddy.
The Central Government agency FCI had been able to procure 94 (0.1%) tonnes.
The spokesman added that District Tarn Taran with 40442 tonnes of procurement was leading in procurement operations whereas District Kaputhala with 25267 tonnes of procurement was at second slot and district Amritsar a 23367 tonnes of procurement ranked at third position.
The State Government has set up 1745 procurement centres and activated its total machinery to ensure smooth procurement of paddy, the spokesman added.
DIWALI BONANZA FOR PUNJAB EMPLOYEES
· Pay scales of Clerks, Jr. Assistants, Steno-Typists, Jr. Scale Stenographers substantially enhanced
· Mobile Allowance for all categories of employees
· Special allowance for secretariat employees enhanced
· Employees allowed encashment earned leave alongwith LTC
Chandigarh October 4:
The Punjab Government today announced bonanza for majority of employees, substantially enhancing their pay scales, allowing encashment of Earned Leave along with LTC, providing Mobile Allowance for every category of employees besides enhancing special allowance for certain categories of employees of Punjab Civil Secretariat.
According to an official spokesman the Punjab Government has revised the pay scales of Clerks, Jr. Assistants, Steno-Typists and Jr. Scale Stenographers w.e.f 1st October 2011. The Clerks who were earlier in the pay band of 5910-20200 with grade pay of 1900 and initial pay of 7810 w.e.f 1-1-2006 have been put in the pay band of 5910-20200 + GP 2400 with initial pay of 9880 w.e.f 1-10-2011.
Similarly, Jr. Assistants who were in the pay band of 5910-20200 with grade pay of 2800 and initial pay of 11170 w.e.f. 1-1-2006 have been put in the pay scale of 10300-34800 with grade pay of 3200 with initial pay of 13500. The spokesman clarified that the post of clerks in the cadre shall continue to be bifurcated into the posts of Clerks and Jr. Assistants in the ratio of 50:50 and the post of Jr. Assistant would continue to be filled up by placement to the extent of 100% out of clerks who have an experience of working for minimum 5 years in the cadre.
The scales of Steno-Typist that was 5910-20200 with GP 2000 and initial pay of 8240 w.e.f 1-1-2006 has been revised to 5910-20200 + 2400 GP with initial pay of 9880 w.e.f. 1-10-2011. The pay scale of Jr. Scale stenographers that was 5910-20200 + 2800 GP with initial pay of 11170 w.e.f. 1-1-2006 has been revised to 10300-34800 + 3200 GP with initial pay of 13500.
Accepting the recommendations of 5th Punjab Pay Commission the Punjab Government has allowed Mobile Allowance to every category of employee. Group A employee would be allowed Rs. 500 , Group B Rs. 300 , Group C Rs. 150 and Group D Rs. 100 mobile allowance w.e.f 1-10-2011.
The Spokesman said that accepting another recommendation of 5th Punjab Pay Commission, the State Government has allowed employees to encash 10 days' earned leave at the time of availing Leave Travel Concession after Block of 4 years. He said that the encashment of earned leave would be limited to the extent of 60 days during the entire service carrier and this encashed leave would not be deducted from maximum amount of earned leave encashable at the time of retirement. He said that encashment of earned leave would be admissible without any linkage to number and nature of leave availed for LTC. He said that where both Husband and wife were Government employees, encashment of leave would be admissible to both of them subject to maximum of 60 days for each spouse during entire service carrier. This was applicable for LTC availed after 1-10-2011.
Enhancing the special allowance of certain categories of employees of Punjab Civil Secretariat, the Superintendent would get now Rs. 1200 per mensem, Private Secretary Rs.1200, Personal Assistant Rs. 600, Sr.Assistant Rs. 480, Jr. Auditor / Auditor Rs. 480, Sr. Scale Stenographer Rs. 480, Jr. Assistant Rs. 300, Jr. Scale Stenographer Rs. 300, Steno Typist Rs. 240 and Clerk Rs. 240. This allowance would be enhanced w.e.f 1-06-2011.
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PUNJAB ALL SET TO EXPORT ONE MILLION TONNE OF RICE WORTH RS.2500 CRORE
CHANDIGARH OCTOBER 04:
Out of two Million tonne of non basmati rice being exported from the country, Punjab was all set to export one Million tonne to the tune of Rs.2500 crore during the Kharif marketing season - 2011-12.
Addressing the media persons here today at Punjab Bhawan this afternoon, Food & Civil Supplies Minister Mr. Adesh Partap Singh Kairon said that the GoI lifted the ban on the export of non basmati rice in the month of September and now the export of rice had only been permitted from private trade and not from the central pool.
The Food & Civil Supplies Minister further said that the Punjab Cabinet under the chairmanship of Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal gave a nod to allow levy free private purchase of non basmati paddy in a meeting held yesterday.
In another significant decision the Cabinet also approved to refund the infrastructure development cess on the rice exported from the state. It may be recalled that the ID cess was 3% which would be refunded along with other taxes on the production of the proof of rice exported from Punjab. An estimated amount of ID cess to be refunded was likely to be nearly Rs. 80 crore. Mr. Kairon further said that the Food & Civil Supplies department held several meetings with the Government of India to allow the quota for export of rice to the state of Punjab on the basis of its proportionate contribution to the Central pool.
The Minister further said that the state government had taken this decision pro-actively to ensure remunerative prices to the farmers over and above the MSP on one hand and to facilitate the private exporters to purchase paddy from mandis on the other. As per the information available with the food and supplies department, the private traders had hardly any stock for export because they were bound to give 75% of the rice out of their private purchase to the central pool. It may be recalled that the foodgrain stocks in the godowns in the state were already full to its storing capacity.
Mr. Kairon pointed out that the department of Food & Civil Supplies had also raised the issue for faster movement of the foodgrains ex-Punjab with Centre at different quarters, as 200 lakh tones of foodgrains was still lying in the state due to shortage of storage capacity. Outward movement of foodgrains from Punjab was not up to the desired level which should at least the 28-30 lakh tones every month out of state. He also said that the Chief Minister personally met the Prime Minister to direct the Ministry of Food to allow Punjab additional capacity for the scientific storage of the foodgrains.
Mr. Kairon was accompanied by the Media Advisor to the Chief Minister Mr. Harcharan Bains and Secretary Food & Civil Supplies Mr. DS Grewal.
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Congress urges people of Punjab to boycott PTC channel owned by the Badals for its biased and politically motivated news and discussions.
(Sukhpal Singh Khaira)
MLA, Bholath
After Capt. Amarinder Sing’s documented disclosures clearly indicating that the PTC Channel is owned by the Badal family, the lid over its one sided favouritism to the Akali’s stands blown off.
Needless to mention, the PTC channel has for the last five years unleashed malicious well orchestrated campaign against Capt. Amarinder Singh and the congress party. The channel has thrown all norms of fair journalism to the winds to favour the SAD-BJP Govt. to the hilt. No news howsoever important it may be, the congress party has always been blacked out by the PTC channel. Even its debates and discussions are all manipulated to favour the Badals.
Since Badals own PTC channel the SAD-BJP Govt. on unwritten directions of the Badal duo, have bent head over heels to give massive govt. sponsored advertisements to the PTC channel, at the cost of public exchequer.
Even the exclusive rights of relay of ‘Gurbani from ‘Darbar Sahib’ by the SGPC smack of complete favouritism to the Badals. The PTC channel has failed to fulfill its commitment of paying Rs. 2 crores as annual fees to the SGPC besides giving Rs. 50 lacs annually to its educational institutions. The PTC channel has also violated the 10% royalty clause from revenue being generated before and after the relay of ‘Gurbani’ daily.
Therefore, following are the demands of the congress party in matters related to the biased functioning of the PTC channel.
1. The Election Commission of india must intervene to prevent telecast of politically motivated programmes to favour the Akali Dal, since the channel is directly owned by the Badals. This must be done to ensure free and fair elections to the Vidhan Sabha.
2. The Election Commission must inquire into the PTC channel – fastway cable network nexus as the Badals have monopolized and hijacked the cable network in Punjab.
3. The SGPC must black list PTC channel for defaulting crores of rupees as per its agreement with the channel. All other channels wanting to telecast ‘Gurbani’ must be allowed to do so and the telecast of ‘Gurbani’ should not remain the exclusive rights of the PTC Channel.
4. Lastly the congress urges the people at large and congress cadres in particular, to boycott the biased and politically motivated news and debates of the PTC to allow formation of fair views for the ensuing elections.
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EXCLUDE UNIVERSITIES FROM THE PROPOSED LEGISLATION ON HIGHER EDUCATION : BADAL TO PM
DESCRIBES DECISION OF CENTRE AS TOTALLY UNCONSTITUTIONAL AND AGAINST THE SPIRIT OF FEDERALISM
CHANDIGARH OCTOBER 04:
Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today sought personal intervention of the Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh to direct the Ministry of Human Resources Development to exclude the universities from all the proposed new laws for higher education and thereafter reframe these bills with the consensus of all the states to maintain the federal structure of our country.
In a letter to the Prime Minister, Mr. Badal apprised Dr. Singh about the matter of new Higher Education Bills introduced in the Parliament by the Ministry of HRD, namely ‘The Prohibition of Unfair practices in Technical Educational Institutions, Medical Educational Institution and Universities Bill, 2010, ‘The National Accreditation Regulatory Authority for Higher Education Bill, 2010 and Higher Education and Research Bill 2010’. These new Bills were believed to bring reforms in higher education. However, he was dismayed to learn that under the guise of these new Bills, the Ministry of HRD was trying to take over the constitutional rights of the States, asserted Mr. Badal.
The Chief Minister sought Dr. Singh’s attention towards the Entry 44 of the Union List and Entry 32 of the State List in the Seventh Schedule of the Constitution. Entry 44 of the Union List reads “Incorporation, regulation and winding up of corporations, whether trading or not, with objects not confined to one State, but not including universities. Entry 32 of the State List reads “Incorporation, regulation and winding up of corporations, other than those specified in List 1, and universities; unincorporated trading literacy, scientific, religious and other societies and associations, co-operative societies”.
Mr. Badal further mentioned that the plea of Entry 66 of Union List and Entry 25 of Concurrent List taken by the Ministry of HRD in the 57th meeting of CABE with respect to competence of Parliament on any matter concerning education was misconceived. Entry 66 of Union List empowered the Central Government only for coordination and determination of standards of institutions of higher education and not Universities. Further education even if is listed under Entry 25 of the Concurrent List, still does not confer the Parliament to make law for regulation of Universities because these matters are specifically excluded from the legislative competence of the Parliament vide E ntry 44 of the Union List. In these circumstances, inclusion of Universities under the aforesaid new laws framed for regulation of higher education was totally unconstitutional and also against the spirit of federalism, added Mr. Badal.
…
SUMMARY REVISION OF PHOTO ELECTORAL ROLLS IN PUNJAB
Chandigarh October 4:
The Summary Revision of Photo Electoral Rolls as on 01.01.2012 has started on 04.10.2011. All those who are of 18 years of age or above on 01.01.2012 are eligible to get themselves enrolled as voters. Forms for enrolment (Form 6 for residents and 6A for overseas voters), deletion (Form 7), corrections (Form 8) and change of address within the same constituency (Form 8A) are available with the District Election Officer and the Booth Level Officer. The Photo Electoral Roll can be checked and the Forms can be also be downloaded from the website http://www.ceopunjab.nic.in
Claims and Objections can be submitted between the 4th & 20th of October, 2011. The Booth Level Officer (BLO) and the Booth Level Agent (BLA) will be available at the polling booth on 9th & 16th October, 2011 to receive claims and objections.
It is cautioned that no one may get themselves registered twice. Having a vote in two places will make a person liable for prosecution under Section 31 of the Representation of the People Act, 1950.
This being an election year the draft electoral rolls has been integrated after rationalization of the polling booths. There are now 1,68,89,519 voters in Punjab registered in 19724 polling booths as against 1,67,12,752 in 18,817 booths at the end of the last Summary Revision. The percentage of photos in the roll has now reached 99.41% after huge efforts put in by the booth level officers, supervisors and Electoral Registration Officers (ERO) and the District Election Officers (DEO). The Elector Photo Identity Card (EPIC) percentage has also gone up to 99.55%. At the moment photos captured during the photo campaign and the continuous revision have been converted to EPICs and approximately 30,000 EPICs are under distribution.
The total population of the state is 2.77 crore and the electorate is 1.68 crore. The total population eligible for enrolment, that is above 18 years is 1,87,19,714 as per the 2011 census. Thus 18,30,195 citizens have not yet enrolled themselves as voters. All those who have not yet registered are requested to avail this opportunity now so that they can participate in the forthcoming Vidhan Sabha elections.
The Political parties of the State have been given soft copies of the electoral rolls. They have been informed that the rolls can also be checked on the website where a search facility enables not only finding your name, but also giving you the details of the polling stations where you should be registered in case you are not enrolled alongwith the names and telephone numbers of the ERO and BLO and the form.
In addition to this the political parties have been given sample copies of the new affidavits to be filed by candidates and copies of the new election expenditure guidelines. The Election Commission India (ECI) invitation to all the political parties to send representatives to the training programme being organized for expenditure monitoring has also been conveyed to the political parties. A copy of the recently revised Election Symbols (Reservation and Allotment) Order 1968 was also given to the political parties.
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Chief Electoral Officer, Punjab
Ghaggar Branch to remain close for 20 days
Chandigarh, October 4:-
Keeping in view the crops and weather conditions, Irrigation Department Punjab has issued a notification to close the Ghaggar Branch off taking from Paiala Feeder-11 from 1.10.2011 to 20.10.2011 (both days inclusive) for 20 days for carrying out the side lining work on the spot of Ghaggar Branch from RD 81000 to RD 172000.
ROTATIONAL IRRIGATION PROGRAMME FOR KHARIF SEASON ANNOUNCED
CHANDIGARH, OCTOBER 4:
The Irrigation Department, Punjab has announced the Rotational Programme for irrigation for the kharif Season through Canal water from 5-10-11 to 12-10-2011. The channels of Sirhind Canal System would run on the priority basis from Sidhwan Branch, Bathinda Branch, Bist Doab, Abohar Branch and Patiala feeder respectively.
Disclosing this here today a spokesman of the irrigation department said that direct distributaries of Bhakra Main Line in group 'A' being in the channels of first preference will run to their indent and balance water supplies available will be utilized in Ghaggar Branch and its off taking channels i.e Ghaggar Branch and Patiala Minor in Group 'B' respectively.
The spokesman further said that all the direct distributaries of Sirhind Feeder in group 'A' being in the First preference will run to their indent and balance water supplies available would be utilised in Abohar Branch off-taking from Sirhind Feeder and its distributaries/Minors in Group 'B'.
The spokesman also said that the channels off taking from upper Bari Doab Canal i.e. Lahore Branch with its distributaries being in the channels of first Preference would run to their indent and balance water supplies available would be utilized in Main Branch Lower, Kasur Branch Lower, Sabraon Branch with their distributaries respectively.
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58974 TONNES PADDY PROCURED IN PUNJAB
Chandigarh, October 4: Government agencies and private millers procured more than 58974 tonnes of Paddy till last evening against 375348 tonnes procurement of previous year.
Out of total procurement of 58974 tonnes of paddy in all the procurement centers of Punjab, Government agencies procured 35448 tonnes of paddy (60.1%) till date whereas private traders procured 23526 tonnes (39.9%) of paddy. Till October 3, PUNGRAIN had procured 32933 tonnes (92.9%) whereas MARKFED procured 420 tonnes (1.2%). PUNSUP procured 855 tonnes (2.4%) , PSWC procured 320 tonnes (0.9%) whereas PAIC was able to procure 895 tonnes (2.5 %) of paddy.
The Central Government agency FCI had been able to procure 15 tonnes.
The spokesman added that District Amritsar with 11034 tonnes of procurement was leading in procurement operations whereas District Tarn Taran with 11469 tonnes of procurement was at second slot and district Faridkot a 6130 tonnes of procurement ranked at third position.
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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 ER. SL GARG ELECTED PRESIDENT OF INSTITUTION OF ENGINEERS
Chandigarh, October 3, 2011
Gary Singh
Er. S.L. Garg FIE, Chief Engineer Punjab Irrigation (Retd.) and Former General Manager Ranjit Sagar Dam Project has been elected President of Institution of Engineers (India) for the term 2012.
He has been associated with the Institution of Engineers (India) in various capacities both at the Punjab & Chandigarh State Centre and as Council Member since 1991. He has also been nominated as a Member Advisory Board National Water Mission by Ministry of Water Resources Govt. of India.
Mr Garg, a Civil Engineering graduate from Thapar Institute of Engineering & Technology, Punjab University, joined Punjab Irrigation Department in the year 1961 and retired as Chief Engineer (Irrigation) in 1995.
- During his service, he played significant roles in Water Resources Management of Canal Systems, Drainage and Flood Control Management etc.
- He was appointed as General Manager of Ranjit Sagar Dam Project – a multipurpose Hydro Electric Project on river Ravi in Punjab.
- Mr Garg was honoured '''Outstanding Civil Engineer''' by the Institution during 1999-2000.
- Mr Garg became the Member of the Institution in the year 1972. As an active and dynamic member, he was elected for the first time to the State Centre Committee of IEI, Punjab, Haryana and Chandigarh in 1975-76.
- He became the Council Member of the Institution in the year 1991 and is continuing till date. He served the Institution in various capacities, such as, Chairman of the State Centre, Vice President of the Institution, Chairman of the Civil Engineering Division Board, Chairman of the SHMC, AITC, LBC. He was also the Member of Finance Committee, By-law Committee, Regional Coordination Committee.
- Er. Garg is also Chairman of Panchkula Welfare Trust which runs Modern Charitable Diagnostic Centre and Patron Dhanwantri Education Society which runs Dabur Dhanwantri Ayurvedic Hospital and College Chandigarh.
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- Sukhpal Singh Khaira MLA Bholath arrested along with 218 congress workers in Kartarpur.
Sukhpal Singh Khaira MLA Bholath, Navtej Singh Cheema Sultanpur Lodhi, Jagjit Singh Bittu President Youth Congress Kapurthala, Amanpreet Singh Montu President .....
Chandumajra lambasts Amarinder for his
consistent anti-Punjab statements
Chandigarh, October 3:
The Shiromani Akali Dal General Secretary, Prof. Prem Singh Chandumajra, today lambasted the state Congress chief Capt. Amarinder Singh for his strident anti-Punjab utterances rather than attacking the UPA government at the centre for continuing with the policy of discrimination towards Punjab with which the party is identified in this state over the years. He said Punjab had always been extended step-motherly treatment starting with non-judicious apportionment of river waters to non-Riparian states, non-inclusion of Chandigarh in Punjab to the latest in the series being the issues of Hansi-Butana canal and the setting up of thermal power plant at Gidderbaha.
In a statement issued here today, he said the Congress governments at the centre had been consistently and stridently taking decisions which had always harmed Punjab and ironically, the Congress leaders in this aggrieved state, rather than supporting the people on such issues, have not only been targeting the pro-people Akali Dal but rather rejoicing over cases of blatant injustice with Punjab and its people. He said the people of Punjab demand explanation from the Congress leaders for their criminal collaboration with their party leaders in Delhi for these anti-people decisions.
Taking Capt. Amarinder Singh to Task, Prof. Chandumajra said rather than joining issues with the centre on the stand taken by the National Thermal Power Corporation on the proposed thermal plant which is to come up at Gidderbaha, he was trying to ridicule the Akali Dal. He said this p[perverted thinking of Capt. Amarinder Singh was also betrayed in his reaction to the Supreme Court verdict on the issue of construction of a concrete wall along a stretch of the Hansi-Butana canal by the Haryana government.
He said at the time when the entire country was crying due to the uncalled for burden imposed by the UPA government by increasing fuel prices, it was only Capt. Amarinder Singh who had rather trained his guns towards the Parkash Singh Badal government. He should have gone to Delhi to lodge protest with his high command against this day light loot of the people.
Prof. Chandumajra said it was such posture adopted by the Congressmen in this state which has encouraged the Congress governments at the centre to adopt anti-Punjab stand on various issues. He alleged the Congressmen had played the role of active collaborators in these discriminatory decisions.
He said the people of Punjab would give a befitting reply to these Congress leaders in the forthcoming Assembly elections. He said the Congress leaders should have realized the mood of the people in the state from the massive support the Akali Dal had received in the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee elections in which the lackeys of the Congress were totally rejected by them. He said the Congress should now be prepared to face the worst as the people would punish this party for anti-people and anti-Punjab decisions.
CABINET GIVES NOD TO DRAFT BILL OF RIGHT
TO SERVICE, 2011
NEW DIRECTORATE OF EDUCATION IN RURAL DEVELOPMENT & PANCHAYATS APPROVED
CHANDIGARH OCTOBER 3:
The Punjab Cabinet today gave a green signal to presentation of the Punjab Right to Service Bill, 2011 for conversion into an Act in the coming session of Punjab Vidhan Sabha.
A decision to this effect was taken here at a meeting of the Cabinet chaired by Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal this morning.
Disclosing this here today a spokesperson of the Punjab government said that this landmark piece of legislation would go a long way to weed out inefficiency at the grass roots level and to ensure transparency and accountability in the system. Under Right to Service Act, time bound delivery of 67 citizen centric services to the public as a matter of right would be ensured besides a provision of the punishment for civil servants in case they failed to comply with the prescribed timeframe.
The Cabinet also gave its approval to conversion of the Punjab State Board of Technical Education & Industrial Training (Amendment) Ordinance, 2011 into an Act by presenting a Bill in the state Assembly. The Cabinet also approved the setting up Guru Kashi University at Talwandi Sabo. Besides this the Cabinet took certain decisions for modification of the Punjab (Prevention of Damage to Public & Private Property) Bill, 2010 and the Punjab Special Security Group Bill, 2010 taking into account the difficulties in their implementation and suggestions received from various stake holders.
The Cabinet also approved the setting up a new Directorate of Education in the department of Rural Development & Panchayats besides clearing a proposal for requisite staff to make it functional.
The Cabinet also gave approval to revert back the Nazool land measuring 1650 sq.yds lying vacant opposite to the Police State Division No. C Circular Road in Amritsar from the Punjab Municipal Infrastructure Development Corporation to the state revenue department for the utilization of said land for some other purposes, as it may deem it fit.
The Cabinet also approved to create Dirba in the Sangrur district as the new Development Block comprising 44 village panchayats, of which 42 have been carved out from Sunam and 2 from Lehragagga. The new development block would have total population of 99,177 and area of 1,11,821 acres. With this the total number of blocks the state has gone up to 143.
The Cabinet also gave nod for amending Section 5 (1) of the Punjab School Education Board Act, 1969 in the forthcoming session of the Punjab Vidhan Sabha to grant another extension of one year to the Chairman of the Punjab School Education Board, Dr. Dalbir Singh Dhillon w.e.f. June 1, 2011 on attaining the age of 65 years.
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KHALSA HERITAGE CENTRE (KHC) TO BE DEDICATED
TO THE NATION IN NOVEMBER
HIGH LEVEL COMMITTEE CONSTITUTED UNDER CHAIRMANSHIP OF CS TO FINALIZE ARRANGEMENTS
CHANDIGARH OCTOBER 3:
The prestigious world class Sikh monument, 'Khalsa Heritage Centre' (KHC) at Sri Anandpur Sahib would be dedicated to the nation in November, 2011.
A decision to this effect was taken by Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal to review the present status of KHC and arrangements for its opening ceremony during a high level meeting held here at Chief Minister’s residence this morning.
Disclosing this here today a spokesperson of the Chief Minister’s Office said that Mr. Badal also approved the dresses designed by the Northern India Institute of Fashion Technology (NIIFT), Mohali for the visitor services associates and other staff of KHC.
It may be recalled here that the concept of KHC was sheer brain child of Mr. Badal who had handpicked a renowned architect Moshe Safdie for its fruition that took more than ten years period.
Taking part in the deliberations, the Chief Minister asked the officers present in the meeting to commemorate this historic occasion with great enthusiasm and religious fervor and described KHC as a ‘land mark’ in the history of Punjab on one hand and a world class museum to apprise the people across the globe with the philosophy and tenets of Sikh religion, history and culture on the other.
Meanwhile, Mr. Badal also constituted a high level committee under the Chairmanship of Chief Secretary Mr. SC Agrawal to chalk out a detailed program and finalize the modalities of the inauguration ceremony. The other members of the committee would be Principal Secretary Home, Principal Secretary Finance, Secretary Tourism & Cultural Affairs and DGP.
Earlier, the Chief Executive Officer of Sri Anandpur Sahib Foundation Dr. Karamjit Singh Sra apprised the Chief Minister about the progress of the project.
Prominent amongst others who attended the meeting included Finance Minister Dr. Upinderjit Kaur, Principal Secretary to Chief Minister Mr.DS Guru, Principal Secretary Finance Mr. KBS Sidhu, Director NIIFT Mr. VN Mathur and Assistant Prof. (Fashion Technology) Dr. Sumrita Singh.
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15919 TONNES PADDY PROCURED IN PUNJAB
Chandigarh, October 03: Government agencies and private millers procured more than 15919 tonnes of Paddy till last evening against the 212004 tonnes paddy procurement previous year.
Out of total procurement of 15919 tonnes of paddy in all the procurement centers of Punjab, Government agencies procured 8969 tonnes of paddy (56.3%) till date whereas private traders procured 6950 tonnes (43.7%) of paddy. Till October 02, PUNGRAIN had procured 8947 tonnes (99.7%) whereas PUNSUP procured 15 tonnes (0.2%) and PAIC was able to procure 07 tonnes (0.1 %) of paddy.
The spokesman added that District Amritsar with 2644 tonnes of procurement was leading in procurement operations whereas District Kapurthala with 1760 tonnes of procurement was at second slot and district Muktsar 1723 tonnes of procurement ranked at third position.
The State Government has set up 1745 procurement centres and activated its total machinery to ensure smooth procurement of paddy, the spokesman added.
· MANPREET SUFFERS MAJOR SET BACK AS 65 PPP LEADERS FROM BARNALA, LUDHIANA, BATHINDA AND SANGRUR JOIN SAD
Chandigarh, October 3: Shiromani Akali Dal (Longowal) was virtually wiped out from Punjab as its National youth president besides its seven district presidents, 13 other senior office bearers deserted it and joined Shiromani Akali Dal in the presence of Party President Mr Sukhbir Singh Badal.
Meanwhile People’s party of Punjab suffered the major identity crisis as its 65 office bearers from Barnala, Ludhiana, Bahtinda and Sangrur bid good bye to PPP and joined Shiromani Akali Dal.
Welcoming them in the party fold Mr Sukhbir Singh Badal said that they would be given due regard in the SAD. He honoured them with the robe of honour in a massive function held at the party head quarter of SAD.
The leaders from Longowal Akali Dal who joined SAD today included Ranjit Singh Nikra, National Youth President; Paramjit Singh Sandhu, working committee member; Bibi Amarjit Kaur Ghuman, former general secretary, Pritpal Singh Malhotra, president Patiala Urban, Gurmeet Singh Virdi, working committee member, Premjit Singh, ward president Ludhiana, Jatinderpal Singh fauji, secretary general, Gurbachan Singh, executive member.
The youth Longowal Akali Dal brigade that joined SAD today included its Ranjit Singh Nikra, National general secretaries Harinder Singh Khalsa, Harpreet Singh Wahi, Simranjeet Singh Prince Senior vice president Sukhpreet Singh Rajan, Jasbir Singh Jassa, district president Patiala Amanpreet Singh Sandhu, District President Mohali Karamjeet Singh, President Ludhiana Urban, Balbir Sing Bali, District president Jalandhar Dilbagh Singh, District President Hoshiarpur Talwinder Singh, District president Urban Jalandhar Gagandeep Singh , Kuldeep Singh Cheema District President Nabha.
Meanwhile Mr. Surjit Singh Dhipali, who has got 10500 votes in SGPC election from Rampura Phul as an Independent Candidate, Congress Leader from Barnala Mr. Bhikkar Singh Director Co-operative society Dhanula and a lok Bhalai Leader Darshan Singh Barawal have also joined Shiromani Akali Dal alongwith their supporters.
Beside this Bibi Urvinder Kaur Grewal Incharge of 4 districts of Istari wing of PPP, Zila Parshid Member Malkit Singh Balhran alongwith Kushaldeep Singh Jakhepal, Joginder Singh Dhanula , Jathedar Jaswant Singh, Nachhatar Singh Kularan, Gandha Singh Kularan, Parminder Singh, Ajai Pal Singh Grewal , Ramandeep Singh, Jarnail Singh, Bholu Singh, Bhupinder Singh , Nafa Singh , Jathedar Pritam Singh Mandwi, Ram pal Singh Khandalwal, Ram Pal Singh Shadi Hari and Malwinder Singh Ladbanjara alongwith 63 other PPP leaders and hundreds of workers have also joined Shiromani Akali Dal.
Prominent amongst others who were present on the occasion were included Dr. Daljit Singh Cheema, Chief Spokesman, SAD, Mr. Nirbjit Sin gh Dhanoya, OSD/Dy. CM, Media Coordinator Mr. Charnjit Singh Brar, Gurvinder Singh Grewal, Avtar Singh Ghuman, Sukhbir SinghSukhi, NRI, Sarbjit Singh Dangarh and Kuldip Singh Virk.
The Election Commission of India has selected Sh. Jaspal Bhatti as the Brand Icon
Chandigarh, October 2:
 The Election Commission of India has selected Sh. Jaspal Bhatti as the Brand Icon for the Summary Revision of Electoral Rolls and the forthcoming Elections to the Punjab State Legislative Assembly. Talking to press reporters in this regard, Ms. Kusumjit Sidhu, Chief Electoral Officer, Punjab welcomed the decision of the ECI to choose Sh. Bhatti as the brand icon for such an important Democratic exercise. She noted that Sh. Jaspal Bhatti is a national figure from Chandigarh, who has done excellent work in the field of humour and satire. Exposing rampant corruption and dissecting social evils have been central to Bhatti’s humour.
Ms Sidhu stated that the choice of the Brand Icon is dictated by various factors including Mass appeal, identification with the masses, a clean image and non-political affiliations. She recognised Mr. Bhatti’s contribution to films and TV and noted that over the years he has always been associated with clean and meaningful humour as a result of which he is a household name not only in Punjab, but across nations. As such he is an ideal choice for the Brand Icon of ECI. As a Brand Icon he shall feature in all the advertisements of the ECI in the print and visual media till the conclusion the elections to the Punjab State Legislative Assembly.
Having written produced and directed television serials “Thank You Jijaji”, “Ulta Pulta”, “Flop Show” and “Full Tension”. Jaspal Bhatti has brought a new concept of humour on Indian Television screen. In the year 1996-97 Jaspal Bhatti moved into the field of feature films. In Dec’96 he launched the start of his new Punjabi feature film ‘Mahaul Theek Hai’ in Chandigarh. Besides this Bhatti has worked in many Hindi feature films such as the prestigious R.K.Banner,s ‘Aa Aab Laut Chalen’,’Fanaa’and ‘Kuch Naa Kaho’.
Giving details of the Election process, Ms Sidhu further stated that the Summary revision of Electoral Rolls shall commence from 4th October and shall continue till the 20th of October. During this period any citizen of the country who is eligible to get his vote registered can do so by applying in this regard to the concerned Electoral Registration Officer. A voter shall have to apply in the prescribed Forms 6 for getting himself registered as a voter. In case anybody has objection to some other persons inclusion as a voter in the electoral Rolls then he may apply in this regard in the prescribed Form 7. In case of any change/correction in the voter details such as change of address, correction of spelling, etc and existing voter may apply in the prescribed Form 8. In case of change of address within the same Assembly constituency a voter should apply in the prescribed form 8-A. The above-said Forms are available with the Booth Level Officers of the Area or with the Electoral registration Officers, These can also be downloaded from the website www.ceopunjab.nic.in
.
A special Search facility has also been provided on the website www.ceopunjab.nic.in wherein any person can check his voter details online from the comfort of his home. In case of any complaints a person may contact the Deputy Commissioner of the district or the concerned Electoral Registration Officer. A Toll-free line’1950’ is already operational in the O/o CEO Punjab in case anybody wishes to address a grievance to the CEO.
Ms. Sidhu also cautioned the people against giving false details while registering as a voter. In case anybody furnishes incorrect details or attempts to register as a voter in 2 or more places simultaneously then he shall be liable to be prosecuted under Sec 31 of the RPA Act, 1950 which carries a maximum sentence of 2 years imprisonment and fine.
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Letter to Speaker Vidhan Sabha Punjab
Sukhpal Singh Khaira
MLA Bholath
Oct 01, 2011
Letter to Mr. Nirmal Singh Kahlon,
Hon’ble Speaker
Vidhan Sabha
Subject:- Request for discussion under Rule 77 of the Rules of Procedure and Conduct of Business.
As stated above, I request that a detailed discussion be allowed under Rule 77 of the Rules of Procedure and Conduct of Business on the Transport policy of the State Govt.
As we are aware, The Tribune newspaper has published an exhaustive account of transport Policy adopted by the govt. in September 2007. According to their investigative reports carried for four days regularly, many serious loopholes have emerged indicating strong favouritism to the family of the Chief Minister who own large fleet of buses. As per reports the tax structure was altered to suite the vested interest of private bus operators at the cost of state owned public transport that is incurring huge losses.
Therefore, in order to find out why such losses are being incurred to the public exchequer, it is highly imperative to debate the issue threadbare on the floor of the Vidhan Sabha during the ensuing session.
I hope you would oblige and allow a discussion on the transport policy of the SAD-BJP govt.
,
BADAL HAILS SETTING UP OF BISA AT LUDHIANA
EXPRESSES GRATITUDE TO PM AND UNION AGRICULTURE MINISTER
Chandigarh, October 2: Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today thanked both the Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh and Union Agriculture Minister Mr. Sharad Pawar for establishing the prestigious ‘Borlaug Institute for South Asia’ (BISA) in the state at Ludhiana.
In a statement here, Mr. Badal said that the Borlaug Institute for South Asia’ allotted to Punjab would go a long way towards the much needed second push for Green Revolution in the agrarian state where the traditional agriculture had already reached at a point of saturation. Mr. Badal pointed out that the setting up of this prestigious institute would be a real tribute to the Noble laureate and father of the Green Revolution Dr. Norman E. Borlaug who was intimately associated with Punjab especially the Punjab Agricultural University and people of our state still remember him with respect and affection. Apart from Dr. Borlaug's affinity to Punjab being at the forefront of food grain production in the country, Mr. Badal said our state rightly deserved this institute in view of its enormous contribution in the National food pool and the establishment of BISA in Punjab with satellite centers in Bihar and Madhya Pardesh would contribute significantly in improving the agriculture in the country in general and food security in particular. Therefore, the upcoming institute in the memory of Dr. Borlaug to be established at a cost of nearly Rs. 500 crore would be instrumental in giving a boost to the agriculture research and providing our agricultural scientist an opportunity to work with International scientist.
Mr. Badal also hoped that this Institute would also prove to be a mile stone in ushering in an era of diversification of agriculture by encouraging the value added crops like Maize and Oil seeds ultimately helping our farmers to come out of the rut of wheat-paddy cycle.
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PUNJAB GOVERNMENT RECONSTITUTE A COMMITTEE TO VERIFY SOCIAL STATUS CERTIFICATES
Chandigarh, October 2:
The Punjab Government has reconstituted a state level scrutiny committee to verify the social status certificates.
Disclosing this here today a spokesman of the Punjab Government said that this new committee will comprise of special, additional, joint secretary to government of Punjab department of welfare of Scheduled caste and Backward Classes (SCs& BCs) as a chairperson. Deputy Secretary, Under Secretary, Superintendent (reserve cell) would be convener member whereas an IAS/PCS officer of the revenue department would be the member.
He further said that the Director Welfare on receipt of the report from the District Welfare Officer, if finds claim for social status to be "not "genuine" or "doubtful" or spurious or falsely or wrongly claimed would issue show-cause notice, supplying a copy of the report of District Welfare Officer, to the candidate through registered post with acknowledgement due, or through the Head of the concerned Educational Institutions or department in which the candidate was studying or employed or direct to the concerned candidate for any other purpose.
He said that the notice would indicate that the representation or reply, if any would be made within two weeks from the date of the receipt of the notice and in no case, on request not more than 30 days from the date of the receipt of the notice. In case the candidate seeks and opportunity of hearing and claims an inquiry to be made in that behalf, the Director Welfare, on receipt, of such representation & reply would convene the meeting of the committee and the pecial/Additional/ Joint Secretary as Chairperson shall give reasonable opportunity to the candidate/parents/guardian to adduce all evidence in support of their claim. He further said that a public notice by beat of drum or any other convenient mode would be published in the village or locality and if any person or association opposes such a claim, an opportunity to adduce evidence would be given to him/it. After giving such opportunity, either in person or through counsel, the committee would make such inquiry as it deems expedient and consider the claims vis-à-vis the objections raised by the candidate or opponent and pass an appropriate order with brief reasons in support thereof.
Bittu welcomes formation of drug prevention Board
Government should take strict action against illegal drug peddlers: Bittu
Chandigarh:01-10-11
Punjab government should take strict action against the illegal drug peddlers to prevent the youth of Punjab. The formation of drug prevention board is a historical step which the government of Punjab has initiated after the youth congress sat on indefinite hunger strike at Ludhiana. Welcoming the move, S Ravnit Singh Bittu MP said that the Punjab government after delaying the matter for formation of drug prevention board for more than five months, has now formed it by announcing the members of the board.
Bittu said that it was the vision of Sh Rahul Gandhi who took this initiative to save the younger generation of Punjab from the clutches of drugs and youth congress sat on indefinite hunger strike for more than 10 days in Ludhiana. He asked the chief minister of Punjab S Parkash Singh Badal to personally monitor the working of this board and try to eradicate this evil from the state. Bittu said that he will also personally monitor the working of the board and any kind of liberal attitude towards the culprits would not be tolerated.
PUNJAB DRUG PREVENTION BOARD
SET-UP TO CHECK DRUG ADDICTION
Chandigarh October 1:
In a bid to effectively check the menace of drug-addiction in the State, the Punjab government has constituted a ten-member Punjab Drug Prevention Board under the chairmanship of Chief Secretary.
Disclosing this here today a spokesperson of the Punjab government said that the other members of the Board would comprise; Principal Secretary Social Security and Women & Child Development, Principal Secretary Home and Justice, Principal Secretary Health and Family Welfare, Principal Secretary Youth Services, Principal Secretary Medical Education and Research, Principal Secretary Higher Education, Additional Director General of Police (crime) , Excise and Taxation Commissioner besides the Director Social Security and Child Development as Member Secretary.
Outlining the objectives of the newly set up Board, the spokesperson said that it would initiate concerted efforts to prevent the supply of drugs, treat and rehabilitate the drug- addicts, launch anti drug addiction awareness programmes. Apart from these, the Board would also chalk out a comprehensive state action plan to control drug addiction efficaciously.
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