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DGP COMMENDATION DISCS FOR 108 PUNJAB POLICE OFFICERS/OFFICIALS
• DGP DESCRIBES IT RECOGNITION OF OUTSTANDING POLICING ACHIEVEMENTS OF RECIPIENTS
Chandigarh, September 28: Punjab DGP Mr. P.S. Gill today awarded 108 Police Officers/Officials right from the rank of Constable to Director General of Police, the Director General Commendation Disc on the basis of their outstanding policing achievements and in recognition of their service to the public. This elliptical shaped disc is made of bronze in golden colour with commendation disc embossed on the obverse, with Punjab Police monogram in the centre.
In a simple but in an impressive ceremony held here at Punjab police headquarters for pipping DG Commendation Disc to the recipients, Mr. Gill congratulating the awardees and urged them to help the people in distress more diligently. He said that in the changing scenario peoples’ expectations for better policing was rising and it becomes our prime duty to provide more efficient policing to win the confidence of public. He said that these commendation discs were the recognition of the outstanding policing achievements and practices of the recipients. On this occasion, the DGP also released a special publication titled ‘Sahyog’ published by the Directorate of Police Welfare. This unique publication has all the details of various welfare initiatives of the police department.
Prominent amongst others who were presented DG Commendation Discs included, Mr. Rajan Gupta, DGP/L&O, Mr. Sanjiv Gupta, ADGP/Crime, Mr. Suresh Arora, ADGP/Intelligence, Mr. Rajinder Singh, ADGP/ Policy & Welfare, Mr. RP Singh,ADGP/ Traffic & Railways, Sh. Gurdev Singh Sahota, IGP/PAP, Mr. SS Chauhan, IGP/HQ( Now Commissioner of Police, Ludhiana), Smt. Gurpreet Kaur Deo, IGP/NRI, Mr. Gaurav Yadav, Police Commissioner, Jalandhar, Mr. Snehdeep Sharma, SSP/Moga, Mr. Gurpreet Singh Gill, SSP/Patiala, Mr. Ashish Choudhary, SSP/Jalandhar/Rural, Mr. Gurpreet Singh Bhullar, SSP/Mohali, Mr. Varinderpal Singh, SSP/GSP and Mr. Ranbir Singh Khatra, SSP/Fatehgarh Sahib. The list of recipients included 3 Constables, 11 Head Constables, 10 ASIs, 1 AIO, 3 IOs, 10 SIs, 18 Inspectors, 6 Dy. SPs, 5 SPs, 2 ACPs, 2 DCPs, 3 Commandants, 6 SSPs, 7 AIGs, 10 DIGs, 2 Police Commissioners, 4 IGPs, 4 ADGPs and one DGP.
It may be added that the DGP Mr. P.S.Gill had in September, 2009 introduced Commendation Disc for Police Officer/Officials for outstanding Policing achievements/practices in the areas of Anti terrorist operations, outstanding investigation and prosecution, community policing, road safety, checking drug abuse and smuggling, implementation of modern IT tools, best practices in police office management, police welfare, best Police Station etc., to boost the morale of the Officers/Officials of the force.
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INFORMATION & PUBLIC RELATIONS DEPARTMENT, PUNJAB
SUKHBIR SINGH BADAL CONDOLES THE DEATH OF GURSHARAN SINGH
Chandigarh, September 28
Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal, Deputy Chief Minister, Punjab today expressed deep shock at the demise of legendary Punjabi playwright Mr. Gursharan Singh, who was known to have developed the character of Bhai Manna Singh through his plays and finally got the tag for himself, after prolonged illness.
In a condolence message, the Deputy Chief Minister described the death of Gursharan Singh as an irreparable loss to Punjab and Punjabi. He said that the genre of theatre developed by Mr. Gursharan Singh has come to be called as the rural theatre with modern sensibilities. Mr. Badal said that a revolutionary, a missionary and a socialist Mr. Gursharan Singh has been instrumental in bringing Punjabi folk and rural theatre to the forefront.
Expressing his heartfelt sympathies with the members of the bereaved family, Mr. Badal prayed to almighty to grant peace to the departed soul and strength to the family members to bear this irreparable loss.
CM CONDOLES THE DEATH OF GURSHARAN SINGH
CHANDIGARH SEPTEMBER 28:
Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today condoled the sad demise of the noted Punjabi playwright and theatre artiest Mr. Gursharan Singh, popularly known as “Bhaji’ who passed away here last night after a prolonged illness.
In a condolence message, the Chief Minister described Mr. Gursharan Singh as an ‘institution who sensitized the people at the grass roots level against the social evil and unethical values prevalent in the system through the medium of theatre’. In the death of Mr. Gursharan Singh the Punjabi theatre has lost a gem who always worked relentlessly for the promotion of Punjab, Punjabi and Punjabiat. His immense contribution in popularizing the Punjabi theater amongst the rural folk would be remembered by one and all.
Mr. Badal expressed heartfelt sympathies with the members of the bereaved family in this critical hour and prayed to the Almighty to give peace to the departed soul and strength to the family to bear this irreparable loss.
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INDIA CLINCHES 1ST ASIAN MENS CIRCLE STYLE KABBADI CHAMPIONSHIP IN TABRIZ
- Sukhbir announces Rs.25 lac for Indian team
- Perfect curtain raiser for 2nd World Cup Kabaddi-Sukhbir
Tabriz(Iran), September 27: Indian Kabbadi team today lifted 1st Asian Men Circle Style Kabbadi Championship here today crushing it’s arch rival Pakistan 53-38 setting ablaze the Takhati Stadium. Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal, Deputy Chief Minister who came to Iran especially for this tournament announced a cash prize of Rs. 25 lac for Indian team.
India crushed Pakistan in the nail biting final that drew crowds from all over Iran for this interesting match. Pakistan was evenly poised till interval 24-22 but in the second half Pakistan lost the pace by scoring only 16 points against 29 scored by India. India showed its technical dominance throughout the game. Sandeep Singh emerged as best raider and Hardavinderjit Singh (Dulla) also mesmerized audience by his aggression. Ekam Singh Dhaliwal emerged as best Zaaphi (Stopper).
In a glittering ceremony Mr. Badal gave away Gold medals to Indian Team. Pakistan bagged silver medals whereas Iran and Nepal bagged Bronze. India maintained the unassailable record in tournament by crushing Afghanistan 69-20, Sri Lanka 72-32 on the first day, Iran 67-26 on the second day and Nepal in semi final 61-42 and Pakistan 53-38.
Indian squad including S.S. Sran, Sandeep Singh, Hardavinderjit Singh, Guljar Singh, Rachhpal Singh, Sukhjit Singh, Gurvinder Singh, Ekam Singh Dhaliwal, Varinder Singh Sidhu and Sunil Kumar dominated the tournament. The Pakistan squad included Asif Ali, Azhar Hassan, Mohsin Nasir, Mohd Afzal, Mohd Ishfaq, Mohd Asif, Mohd Hyat, Mohd Imran Khan, Mohd Ifran, Mohd Kasim Khan.
In the group A India, Iran, Afghanistan and Sri Lanka and in Group B Pakistan, Nepal, Turkmenistan and Indonesia were the teams. Sri Lankan Chief Minister Mahipala Herath, President of Indonesian Kabaddi Association Mr. Ida Antira, Secretary General of Afganistan Kabaddi Association Mr. Fardeen Ziayee and President of Turkmenistan Kabaddi Association Orbif Bukharo also came to attend the closing ceremony. They were invited by Punjab Deputy Chief MInister Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal to come to India to attend the Second World Cup Kabaddi being organised in Punjab in the month of November and they agreed to come.
The glittering closing ceremony was witnessed by jam-packed stadium and started with National Anthem of Iran. Later, holy verses of Quran were read thanking Allah for successful conclusion of First Asian Kabaddi Tournament. Later East Azerbaijan Head of Sports Organisation thanked Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal for their support. Vice President of East Azerbaijan lauded the role of Mr. Badal for bringing Kabaddi on international scene. As Kabaddi teams of 8 nations holding their national flags marched in the march past, cheering crowd wave to them. The closing ceremony was marked by rich music of Iran and Azerbaijan. As Mr. Badal gave gold medal to the winning team the flag of India slowly rose with national anthem of India playing in a background.
Speaking to Media, Mr. Badal said that this was the perfect curtain raiser for 2nd world cup kabaddi.
SUKHBIR FOR IMPROVING TRADE TIES OF PUNJAB WITH IRAN
OFFERS TO EXCHANGE R&D IN THE AREA OF AGRICULTURE
Tabriz( Tehran), September 27: Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal who is leading a 5 member delegation to Iran to preside over 1st Asian Circle Kabbaddi Tournament, today called on Dr. Agideh Deputy Governor East Azerbaijan Province, stressed the need for improving trade, commercial and research ties with Punjab state of India.
In a courtesy call to the Deputy Governor Mr. Badal sad that India and Iran share warm ties and Punjab has ties with Iran since the time Guru Nanak. He expressed the need for exchange of know how in the area of Agriculture a lot PAU can contribute a lot in improving the variety of Basmati Rice. Inviting investment in the area of research, the Deputy Governor said that India could become partner in the progress of Iran. Mr. Badal said that Punjab and Iran could collaborate in the areas of IT, agriculture Industry especially in the area of rice shelling. He also invited the governor and Deputy Governor to World Cup Kabbadi to be held in Punjab in November this year.
Mr. Balwinder Singh Bhunder, MP and Mr.Sikandar Singh Maluka accompanied the deputy Chief Minister.
PUNJAB CM GREETS PEOPLE ON AGRASEN JAYANTI
CHANDIGARH SEPTEMBER 27:
The Punjab Chief Minister Parkash Singh Badal today greeted the people of the state, especially the Vaishya community on the eve of ‘Agrasen Jayanti’.
In a message, Mr. Badal said called upon the people to seek inspiration from the ideology of Maharaja Agrasen who during his regime gave the message of welfare state by strengthening social harmony and unity.
Mr. Badal said that Vaishay community had played a pro-active role in the socio-economic progress of the country and hoped this community would actively participate in the development process in future also. He said that a real tribute to Maharaja Agrasen would be to follow his teachings still relevant in the present circumstances. He appealed to the people to commemorate this auspicious day rising above the parochial considerations of caste, color, creed and religion.
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Punjab Govt. announces Amnesty Scheme for the defaulter Allottees of industrial plots in Focal Points
CHANDIGARH, SEPTEMBER 27: Keeping in view the demand raised by Focal Point Associations of different focal points and PHD Chamber of Commerce, Punjab Government has announced the Amnesty Scheme enabling the defaulter allottees of industrial plots of different focal points to make payment of enhanced land cost only with simple interest of 15%.
Mr. Tikshan Sud, Local Government and Industries Minister, stated that under this scheme, the defaulter allottees have been given a golden opportunity to discharge the liability of enhanced land cost of their plots by making payment of principal amount along with interest as per terms of allotment subject to maximum of 15% per annum (without compounding and penal) in 2 equated installments falling due on 15.11.2011 and 15.02.2012.
Mr. Sud further said that the Amnesty Scheme would provide major relief to around 1500 allottees of industrial plots of different Focal Points as in normal course these defaulters become liable to make payment of their dues with 18% normal and 6% penal interest on compounding basis. The Amnesty Scheme has been made applicable to the defaulter allottees of industrial plots of different Focal Points developed by the PSIEC in the entire state.
The scheme also provides special provision for the allottees willing to make payment and square up their account before 15.02.2012. In those cases, where defaulter allottees make payment before 15.02.2012, the interest rate as per scheme mentioned above shall be charged only up to the date of clearance of default.
EMPLOYEES TO GIVE DETAILS OF PURCHASING ANY PROPERTY IF COST MORE THAN MONTHLY SALARY
CHANDIGARH, SEPTEMBER 27: The Punjab Government has issued a notification stating that its employees must submit the details of purchasing, if more than their monthly salary, before the prescribed authorities each transaction of moveable and immovable property in any shape.
An official spokesman today said that the State Government has amended the section 18 of Government Employees Conduct Rules-1966 and now every government Employee shall report to the prescribed authority each transaction of moveable or immovable property made by way of lease, mortgage, purchase, sale, gift or otherwise either in his own name of any member of his family, if the actual cost of such transaction exceeds one month’s gross salary of such employee.
FARMERS TO COME FORWARD AGAINST PESTICIDE FREE FARMING: LANGAH
- PRESERVATION OF NATURAL RESOURCES CALL OF THE HOUR
- MINISTER APPEALS TO ADOPT ORGANIC FARMING
CHANDIGARH, SEPTEMBER 27: The Agriculture Minister of Punjab Mr. Sucha Singh Langah expressing concern over the unlimited use of pesticides for the growth and yields of crops today appealed the farmers to adopt organic farming.
Mr. Langah said that organic farming would prove a boon for the people of state as well as the soil of Punjab and it could also reduce the increasing number of diseases through out the state. He said that the situation would become worse if our farmers did not stop unlimited usage of chemicals and pesticides to get more yields of crops.
Appealing the farmers to adopt organic farming, Mr. Langah said that thorough organic farming the farmers could get more earnings on less expenditure besides preserving a major chunk of natural resources including water, which was the need of the hour. He said that it was observed that due to the limitless usage of pesticides would not only lead to diseases but also make our soil infertile. He said that it was the need of the hour to preserve our natural resources so we can take benefits from these resources for a long time in future.
Mr. Langah said that farmers of Punjab has always remained in frontline in the overall development of our nation with playing exemplary role in Green Revolution and White Revolution and it was the result of exemplary crop production that Punjab had recently got Krishi Karman National Award.
SUKHBIR FOR IMPROVING TRADE TIES OF PUNJAB WITH IRAN
OFFERS TO EXCHANGE R&D IN THE AREA OF AGRICULTURE
Tabriz( Tehran), September 27: Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal who is leading a 5 member delegation to Iran to preside over 1st Asian Circle Kabbaddi Tournament, today called on Dr. Agideh Deputy Governor East Azerbaijan Province, stressed the need for improving trade, commercial and research ties with Punjab state of India.
In a courtesy call to the Deputy Governor Mr. Badal sad that India and Iran share warm ties and Punjab has ties with Iran since the time Guru Nanak. He expressed the need for exchange of know how in the area of Agriculture a lot PAU can contribute a lot in improving the variety of Basmati Rice. Inviting investment in the area of research, the Deputy Governor said that India could become partner in the progress of Iran. Mr. Badal said that Punjab and Iran could collaborate in the areas of IT, agriculture Industry especially in the area of rice shelling. He also invited the governor and Deputy Governor to World Cup Kabbadi to be held in Punjab in November this year.
Mr. Balwinder Singh Bhunder, MP and Mr.Sikandar Singh Maluka accompanied the deputy Chief Minister.
PUNJAB TO FORMULATE ITS CULTURAL AND HERITAGE POLICY WITH THE HELP OF UNESCO
- pUNJAB cHIEF SECRETARY INAUGURATES Four DAY WORKSHOP
Chandigarh, September 26:
Punjab Government has decided to formulate it cultural and heritage policy with the help of UNESCO. This was stated by Punjab Chief Secretary Mr. SC Agrawal while inaugurating a four day workshop organized by Punjab Cultural Department here today to deliberate on new policy.
Speaking on the occasion the Chief Secretary pointed out that there was great potential through cultural heritage in Punjab. He said that some time ago Punjab Government had requested UNESCO to contribute in formulating the state's cultural and heritage policy and on February 26, 2011 an MoU was signed with UNESCO in Delhi. He further said that state Government was constituting a state level committee to chalk out a comprehensive policy to preserve as well as project its rich culture and heritage not only in India but abroad also.
Speaking on the occasion a UNESCO expert Mr. Richard A Engelhardt said that a special team for UNESCO would provide technical help to Punjab for its proposed policy and would review the project after every three months. Other members of the UNESCO team namely Mr. Taka Makina and Ms. Nicol also lauded the Punjab Government for its commitment and efforts for formulating a Cultural and Heritage policy.
Earlier, Mr. Husan Lal Secretary Cultural Affairs welcome Mr. SC Agrawal and members of experts' team. On this occasion cultural and heritage experts from other states were also present.
ENSURE BENEFITS TO CONTRACT EMPLOYEES AS PER LABOUR LAW - CS DIRECTS ALL THE DEPARTMENTS
CHANDIGARH, September 26:
Chief Secretary of Punjab Mr.S.C.Aggrawal has issued instructions to all the government departments to ensure that all government departments must ensure all the incentives and facilities as per labour law to all contract employees employed through outsourcing agencies.
In a communiqué to Principal Secretary to Chief Minister Mr. D.S. Guru the Chief Secretary asked the departments to ensure as per laws Minimum wages, Provident Fund and ESI Facilities be ensured to all the Contract Employees working under different Government Department.
The letter said that it has been noticed that the Government Department generally invites Quotations from Contractors for hiring the services of Employees on contract basis. He said that only those contractors were given the weightage who so ever quoted the lowest rate but this fact was totally ignored by the government department that how the contractor would ensure the Minimum Wages and other incentives to the employees as per the labour laws.
Chief Secretary categorically directed the government department to ensure labour laws while dealing with the contractor.
He also mentioned that the contractors in most of cases did not pay the whole salary released by the Government to the contract employee and also did not give the contact employees, their Bonus, Gratuity, Maternity leave and sanctioned Holidays.
INDIA AND PAKISTAN TO VIE IN FINALS OF FIRST ASIAN CIRCLE STYLE KABADDI CHAMPIONSHIP
TABRIZ, TEHRAN (IRAN): The traditional rivals India and Pakistan are set to clash in the finals of ‘First Asian Circle Style kabaddi championship for men being held in this province of Iran, in which 8 nations participated.
India sailed to first semifinal by maintaining its winning streak and crush Nepal convincingly 60 to 46. In the Second semifinal Pakistan was able to dominate host Iran 62-26 ensuring a titanic clash in the finals to be held early tomorrow.
Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal, Deputy Chief Minister Punjab, especially came to Iran to cheer Indian team. Talking to media Mr. Badal said that Kabaddi was no longer confine to shores of India and Pakistan as successful organization of Asian Kabaddi in Iran shows that the Kabaddi was getting international recognition and this was a step forward to get Kabaddi included Brazil Olympic 2016. He said that his dream of getting international recognition for the traditional game of Kabaddi has been realized. Earlier he met Deputy Governor of Eastern Azerbaijan and Chief Minister of Province of Sri Lanka and invited them to visit Punjab to witness second World Cup Kabaddi Championship being held in Punjab.
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Bittu to sit on indefinite hunger strike from the day Punjab Vidhan sabha begins
Akali dal BJP government cheated the youth of Punjab-- Bittu
Amandeep/CHD
Blaiming the ruling Akali-BJP Government for its failure to set up an all powerful Drug Prevention Board in the State, despite the written promise made by the Chief Minister in this regard, Member Parliament Shri Ravneet Singh Bittu said, the people of Punjab in general and youth of Punjab in particular today feel cheated by the State Government.
Ravneet said, the negative attitude of the Akali-BJP Government towards the formation of Drug Prevention Board, have resulted in the free distribution of liquor and other medicated drugs in the otherwise religious elections to the S.G.P.C. held recently.
Pulling up the ruling Akali-BJP Government for deceiving the people and reminding the Chief Minister of his obligations to the people of Punjab who have voted him Chief Minister four times Ravneet said, though S. Parkash Singh Badal, never tire praising Shri Narinder Modi for the progress and growth of Gujrat, he forgets that the progress and growth of Punjab where more than 72% of youth are addicted to one or the other form of drugs, is not possible if this menace of drug abuse is not tackled immediately.
It is pertinent to mention here that the Shri Ravneet Singh Bittu, then President Punjab Youth Congress and scores of activists initiated a Hunger Fast to bring the issue of drug abuse in Punjab to the fore front of collective thinking.The State Government after 121 hours of the initiation of hunger fast gave a written assurance that a Drug prevention Board would be in place, with in one and half months, but did nothing till date even though more than four and half months have passed.
Bittu demanded immediate formation of a House Committee of Legislatures of all political parties, to enable them discuss and deliberate on the kind of powers to be delegated to the constitutional body such as Drug Prevention Board.
In the end, Bittu said, he is going to sit on a hunger fast again on the day the Punjab Assembly Session is scheduled to begin, if the demand of the people of Punjab, for the seting up of a House Committee and a Drug Prevention Board, is not met by then.
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SUKHBIR ANNOUNCES MAJOR WELFARE BONANZA FOR POLICE FORCE
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- MASS PROMOTIONS FOR 5199 CONSTABLE AND HEAD CONSTABLES IN A SINGLE DAY
- INSURANCE AND GROUP HEALTH INSURANCE FOR EVERY EMPLOYEE OF POLICE FORCE ANNOUNCED
- HOUSE RENT ALLOWANCE ANNOUNCED FOR ALL CONSTABLES
- EX-GRATIA RAISED TO RS. 5 LAKH
- LAC TO BE GIVEN IN THE MARRIAGE OF DAUGHTERS OF POLICE PERSONNEL WHO DIE PERFORMING ACTIVE DUTY
- RS. 10 LAC EX-GRATIA FOR POLICE PERSONNEL DYING IN ACTION
· WARDS OF GALLANTRY MEDAL WINNERS TO BE RECRUITED AS SIs
· PPA PHILLAUR TO BE CONVERTED INTO UNIVERSITY
· PPA SPORTS SCHOOL TO BE OPENED AT JALANDHAR
· RECORD RECRUITMENT OF 20064 POLICE DURING LAST FOUR YEARS
· RECRUITMENTS OF 50 ASIs, 150 SIs UNDER PROCESS
· 8028 CONSTABLES, 2338 OTHER RANKS PROMOTED DURING LAST FOUR YEARS
· 124 INSPECTORS TO BE PROMOTED DSPs
· 9188 NEW POSTS CREATED IN POLICE
· 6203 POSTS OF CONSTABLES, 2000 LADY CONSTABLES BEING ADVERTISED
· GIVES AWAY A CHEQUE OF RS 5 CRORE FOR POLICE WELFARE FUND
· CONSTITUES A COMMITTEE UNDER CS TO EXAMINE PROBLEMS OF CLASS IV EMPLOYEES
Chandigarh, September 24: The Punjab Police today got one of the biggest ever bonanza as Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal, Deputy Chief Minister who is also Home Minister of the State announced series of welfare measures including mass promotions of 5199 constables and head constables in a single day.
Announcing the bonanza in the mass pipping ceremony of 5199 Constables and Head Constables, who have been given promotion to the rank of Senior Constable and ASI during state level ‘All Rank Welfare Meeting’ held at PAP Complex, Mr. Badal said that SAD-BJP government is the first government that has focused on the welfare of constabulary and ensured to break their chronic stagnation to boost the morale of the force that has shown exemplary conduct during difficult times. He said that earlier constable used to get the rank of senior constable after 9 years of service that has been reduced to 8 years benefiting 1600 constables. Similarly, 3599 Head constables, who have been completed 10 years of service have been promoted as ASI (local rank) under new policy. Mr. Badal said that since he took over Home Minister, he and DGP had been following up in every department to ensure finalization of seniority at every level, ensuring timely promotion at every level. He said that this resultantly 8028 officials/officers constables have been promoted by the present government compared to only 2338 promoted during Congress government. He said that besides 124 Inspectors have already been cleared for promotion to the rank of DSP.
Lashing at Congress for neglecting the Police force during their five year regime Mr. Badal said that against the record recruitment 20,064 recruitment (6 DSPs, 150 SIs, 50 ASIs, 17858 constables) by the present government, Congress government recruited only 1542 Constables and ASIs in the Police force. He said that 6200 candidates including 485 lady constables are being appointment later this month and advertisement for 6203 posts including 2000 posts of Lady Constables was being given in newspapers. Besides this recruitment of 50 ASIs in intelligence wing and 150 sub inspectors was under process.
Opening the kitty of bonanza for Police force Mr. Badal said that now 100% constabulary would be given house rent against earlier limit of 60% fulfilling the long pending demands of constables. He also announced cashless medical claim group health insurance scheme for providing world class treatment to Punjab Police personnel and their dependent upto Rs. 2 lac and this benefit has been extended to all police personnel including Ministerial staff and class IV employees.
Saluting the Punjab Police force for their exemplary courage shown in their fight against decade long disturbance in the state, Mr. Badal said that henceforth Rs. 5 lac Ex-gratia would be given to the Police Personnel, who die while performing active duty. Similarly, Rs. 10 lac Ex-gratia would be given to Police personnel who die while in action with terrorist/anti social elements. He said that to take care of families of Police personnel who die while in duty or during action the Punjab government would give Rs. 1 lac in the marriage of daughters of such police personnel.
Handing over a cheque of Rs 5 crore for the Punjab police welfare fund Mr. Badal said that realizing the extensive scope of welfare, he has set up a separate directorate for police welfare under the command of an ADGP.
Announcing a major relief to the members of Gallantry Medal winners Mr. Badal said that henceforth one family member of recipients of Gallantry Medal would be recruited as Sub Inspector, if otherwise eligible. He said that it has been decided that for those recruited on compassionate ground, would be allotted district numbers and their cases would be processed by concerned SSPs/Units within 15 days and they would be given employment in the home district.
Mr. Badal also announced that Punjab Police Academy, Phillaur would be converted as Police University and a new PAP Sport School is being set up Jalandhar to train 5000 children, who would be given the facility of accommodation, food, training and other infrastructure by the government free of cost.
The Deputy Chief Minister said that SAD-BJP government had been taking all these steps to motivate Police force to make it number one professional police force of the country. He said that he took personal interest to introduce Commissonerate System in Ludhiana, Amritsar and Jalandhar for better policing in the mini metro of Punjab. He said that to meet the increasing requirement of Police force 9188 new posts were created by this government whereas Congress had created only 24 posts in five years.
Lauding the Police force Mr. Badal said he had been continuously reviewing the working of Police force and had been taking steps to meet new challenges. He said that he took initiative to create 3 new Police Districts of Jalandhar (Rural), Pathankot and Fazilka besides one Police Zone in Bathinda and police range in Ropar.
Focusing on up gradation of infrastructure, weaponry and improving the mobility of Police force Mr. Badal said that during last five years this government allocated Rs. 54 crores for purchase of vehicles and 190 scorpio for Police Stations, 50 scorpio for sub divisions and 107 innovas were purchased for during last five years. He said that Police force was equipped with modern weaponary including MP-9 Tactical Machine Pistols, SG 553 Assault Rifle, Negev LMG 5.56 mm, AK series Rifles and X95 Assault rifles at the cost of Rs. 37 crores.
He said that SAD-BJP government constructed 20 new police station, 3 Policelines, 1 Police complex at Phagwara, 6 range control room, 1 Cyber crime Police Station cum forensic Science Lab, 5 DSP residences, 20 Training Schools, 344 quarter for Police force at the cost of Rs. 140 crores and 715 Kanal land has been allotted to Police department for construction of new police station building etc.
Describing community policing initiative of Punjab Police, one of its own kind Mr. Badal said that ultra modern 25 community Policing centres in district level, 95 Sanjh Kendras at sub divisional level and 83 out reach centres at the Thana level constructed at the cost of Rs. 30 crores during last six months are all set to give new people friendly face to the Punjab Police force.
As Deputy Chief Minister along with DGP pipped the constables and head constables giving them the rank of head constables and ASIs, a wave of jubilation broke amongst over 6000 force as they hugged each other, pipping each other with the upper rank besides sharing laddoos amongst themselves.
As Mr. Badal intermingled with the group of newly promoted senior constables and ASIs congratulating them, there was no limit of joy amongst the new promotees.
Later Mr. Badal after addressing the press conference also met the families of police martyrs and patiently listen to their grievances. He instructed DGP and ADGP administration to solve their problems on the priority. He also asked ADGP to explore the possibility of delegating the power of issuance of Red Card to the Punjab Police instead of civil administration. Mr. Badal also met a delegation of class IV employees and constituted a committee under chief secretary to find an early solution to the problems raised by class IV employees.
Earlier Mr. Rajinder Singh, ADGP Welfare, welcomed the Deputy Chief Minister, whereas Mr. Shashi Kant DGP Armed Battalions, proposed vote of thanks. Principal Secretary Home Mr. D. S. Bains and DGP Mr. P.S. Gill along with top brass of police force were present on the occasion.
Silent features of Bonanza for Punjab Police :-
· 1600 constables promoted as senior constables reducing qualifying service from 9 to 8 years.
· 3599 Head Constables with 10 years of service promoted as ASI’s.
· 20064 recruited in Punjab Police in last four years against 1542 recruited in Congress regime.
· Record promotions 13351 Police Personnel made by any Government since independence.
· 9188 new posts created against only 24 posts created by Congress regime.
· Hands over a cheque of Rs 5 crore for Punjab Police Welfare Fund
· Insurance and group health insurance for every employee of police force announced
· House rent allowance announced for all constables benefitting 40% of the force
· Ex-gratia raised to Rs. 5 lakh
· Rs.1 lac to be given in the marriage of daughters of police personnel who die performing active duty
· Rs. 10 lac ex-gratia for police personnel dying in action
· Wards of gallantry medal winners to be recruited as SIs
· PPA Phillaur to be converted into Police University
· PAP Sports School to be opened at Jalandhar
· Record recruitment of 20064 police during last four years
· Recruitments of 50 ASIs, 150 SIs under process rs
· 124 inspectors to be promoted DSPs
· 6203 posts of constables, 2000 lady constables being advertised
· Sets up a committee under Chief Secretary to find solution to the problems of class IV employees
· Assures early redressal of problems of families of police martyrs
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 Congress terms the short Vidhan Sabha session a cruel joke and mockery of democracy in Punjab
Sukhpal Singh Khaira
MLA Bholath
It is extremely unfortunate that a state like Punjab which has lost its sheen over the years and is on a downward trend in all spheres, has no time to debate its woes on the floor of the house. The proposed last session of the Vidhan Sabha from 3rd Oct. to 5th Oct. is nothing but a cruel joke and mockery of democracy.
As is the tradition the first day i.e. 3rd Oct. would go without any legislative business due to obituaries, can we as legislators do justice to our electorate in two days of session? People have been pressing us with important issues to be raised for the last six months, can we come up to their expectations in two sittings? Each legislator has sent on an average 25 questions for their respective constituencies making it more than 2000 questions of the people, while there are going to be only two question hours of one hour each and answers to not more than 50 questions can be given by the govt.
Even the humiliating defeat of Punjab Govt. in the Supreme Court yesterday over the issue of Hansi Butana toe wall issue is a direct fall out of lack of debate in the Vidhan Sabha, I, as a member had warned the govt. well in advance of the dire consequences of construction of toe wall on Hansi – Butana by Haryana Govt. during the last year’s monsoon session but to no avail. Most of the time opposition is gagged by the Speaker backed by the treasury benches as such vital issues are lost in the din. Had the entire house debated threadbare the Hansi – Butana issue and then passed a unanimous resolution, we would not have seen this pathetic situation.
More than 100 villages around river Ghaggar in Patiala are likely to face the wrath of this toe wall in the shape of floods but we as representatives of the people debated nothing. Therefore, the congress urges the Hon’ble Speaker to extend the session by minimum a fortnight to debate burning issues of the people such as havoc caused by flooding of Sutlej and Beas rivers, rampant corruption, anguish and resentment amount employees, unabated political vendetta, politicization of civil and police machinery, critical financial situation forcing the govt. to pick up huge loans through its Market committee’s, ever increasing drug menace, deteriorating law and order and a plethora of other issues.
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BADAL ANNOUNCES TO ENHANCE HONORARIUM OFSARPANCHES FROM RS. 600 TO 1200 PER MONTH
CHANDIGARH SEPTEMBER 24:
Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today announced to enhance the honorarium of Sarpanches from Rs. 600 to Rs.1200 per month w.e.f. October 1, 2011
A deputation of Panchayat Union Punjab led by its State General Secretary Sarpanch Mr. Surjit Singh Kaleke called on Mr. Badal here at Chief Minister’s residence this morning.
Responding to another issue raised by the deputation relating to the hardships being faced by them in the release of tubewell connections for panchayat land, Mr. Badal directed the Chairman Punjab State Power Corporation Ltd. to immediately release these connections without any difficulty. He said that these connections should be released to the panchayats on the priority as the panchayat land was the primary source of its income.
Mr. Badal further said that village panchayats were the most significant organ of the democratic system which had been instrumental in the transformation of the rural areas. He reiterated that the State Government was committed to extend all possible support and cooperation to the Sarpanches as they played a pro-active role in the process of overall rural development.
Expressing gratitude to the Chief Minister on behalf of the entire Sarpanches of the state for conceding their long pending demand to enhance their honorarium, Mr. Kaleke assured him that they would leave no stone unturned in the implementation of State Government’s policies and programs for the rural development and welfare of its people.
Prominent amongst others who were present in the meeting included Rural Development and Panchayats Minister Mr. Ranjit Singh Brahampura, Principal Secretary to Chief Minister Mr. DS Guru, Principal Secretary Finance Mr. KBS Sidhu, Financial Commissioner Rural Development and Panchayats Mr. Mandeep Singh Sandhu and Director Mr. Balwinder Singh Multani
CABINET APPROVES TO HIKE HONORARIUM OF NAMBARDARS FROM RS.500 TO RS.1000 PER MONTH NAMBARDAR UNION THANKS CM
CHANDIGARH SEPTEMBER 23:
The Council of Ministers in its meeting held under the Chairmanship of Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today approved the hike in the honorarium paid to the Nambardars from Rs.500 to Rs.1000 per month w.e.f October 1, 2011.
Disclosing this here today a spokesperson of the Chief Minister’s Office said that as many as 31684 nambardars have been appointed by the state government so far for discharging different duties defined under Rule 20 of Punjab Land Revenue Rules, 1909 which mainly include matters relating to land revenue.
Nambardars played a vital role between general public and the government and thus recognizing the importance of their services, the government has enhanced their honorarium, added the spokesperson. .
Meanwhile, the General Secretary of the Punjab Nambardar Union Mr. Mohinder Singh Jahangir expressed gratitude to the Chief Minister for conceding their long pending demand.
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CABINET APPROVES SUMMONING OF 13TH SESSION OF PUNJAB VIDHAN SABHA FROM OCTOBER 3 TO 5
RIGHT TO SERVICE ORDINANCE TO BE CONVERTED INTO ACT
DURING SESSION
CHANDIGARH SEPTEMBER 23:
The Punjab Cabinet in its meeting held under the Chairmanship of Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today approved the summoning of the 13th Session of 13th Vidhan Sabha from 3rd October to 5th October, 2011.
Disclosing this here today a spokesperson of the Punjab government said that the session would commence on October 3 in the afternoon with obituary references and the house would adjourn sine-die after the proposed legislative business on October 5.
The spokesperson further said that the major legislative task would relate to the conversion the Punjab Right to Service Ordinance, 2011 (Punjab Ordinance No.7 of 2011) into an Act in the coming session of Punjab Vidhan Sabha. Right to Service Act was the brain child of Deputy Chief Minister Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal who was committed to weed out corruption at the grass roots level to ensure transparency in the system and accountability of bureaucracy.
To ensure accountably of the official machinery and to provide time bound delivery of 62 citizen centric services, the Punjab government led Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal took the path breaking step to become first state in the country to enact ‘Right to Service Act’. Under Right to Service Act, time bound delivery of 42 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, added the spokesperson
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 MP Bajwa Lauds Action Taken Against Agents: Step in the Right Direction
Partap Singh Bajwa
MP, Gurdaspur, Punjab
Pleased with the action taken against certain travel agents in Chandigarh for duping Punjabi youth sent to Iraq, Sardar Partap Singh Bajwa, Congress Member of Parliament from Gurdaspur, believes that it is a step in the right direction.
Mr. Bajwa said, “I am glad that action is finally being taken to reign in unscrupulous travel agents and so called placement consultants who have be duping the Punjabi youth while making tall promises of providing jobs aboard.”
Mr. Bajwa was deeply disturbed with the state of affairs where Punjabi youth were languishing in foreign jails or living in inhuman conditions abroad because they were lured by promises of employment aboard by Travel Agents who were only interested in making quick and easy money.
To tackle this well oiled nexus of travel operators, Mr. Bajwa took up the issue of the Punjabi Youth who were forced to work in inhumane conditions in Iraq before Parliament recently demanding intervention of the Union Ministry of Overseas Indian Affairs.
The Ministry of Overseas Indian Affairs has reported before a bench of the Punjab and Haryana High Court on 21.09.2011 that action has been taken against travel agents for sending Punjabi youth to Iraq.
Mr. Bajwa said, “Many citizens of India are languishing in Foreign Jails and are suffering due to these illegal acts. A thought needs to be spared for their families back home who have no news of their loved ones and worry for their well being.”
Mr. Bajwa believes that the sector is not well regulated as fly by night operators who are linked to travel agents in cities have begun copping up in villages to induce the rural youth. Mr. Bajwa said, “It is evident from the number of such cases that have been reported from Punjab that the existing regulations are not being enforced by the Policing Machinery in the state”.
AGE LIMIT FROM 60 TO 58 YEARS DECREASED FOR WOMAN BENEFICIARIES FOR OLD AGE PENSION
REVIEW ARRANGEMENTS OF PADDY PROCUREMENT
GIVES NOD TO PTU FOR RUNNING THE MULTI-DISCIPLINE ACADEMIES
CHANDIGARH SEPTEMBER 23:
The Punjab Cabinet today approved to reduce the age of women beneficiaries from 60 to 58 years under Old Age Pension and Financial Assistance to Widow and Destitute Woman scheme, 1996.
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.
The Cabinet also reviewed the arrangements for the smooth and hassle free procurement of an expected 140 lac MT Paddy for the Kharif Marketing Season 2011-12 by the state procurement agencies. The allotted share of procurement to PUNGRAIN was 33.60 lac MT (24%), Makfed 32.20 lac MT (23%), PUNSUP 30.80 lac MT (22%), Punjab Warehousing 15.40 lac MT (11%), Punjab Agro Industries 14 lac MT (10%) besides FCI 14 lac MT (10%). As many as 1745 mandis/purchase centers have been set up for the current procurement of paddy. The proposal for the cash credit limit to the tune of Rs.18678.24 crore had been forwarded to the Reserve Bank of India to enable the state procurement agencies to purchase its share of 126 lac MT.
The Cabinet also gave nod to run the multi-discipline academies being set up at Khunimajra, Bhikhiwind, Amritsar, Hoshiarpur, Batala, Rajpura, Guruteg Bahadurgarh, Dinanagar and Sultanpur Lodhi by the Punjab Technical University as per the decision taken by its Board of Directors. These academies would impart quality education in plus 2 Science stream besides diploma and degree level education in Engineering, Management, Computer and Pharmacy.
The Cabinet also approved to designate the Constable and Head Constable with a service of 8 years and 10 years of regular qualifying service as senior Constable and ASI/Local Rank respectively on the basis of seniority.
The Cabinet also gave approval to grant House Rent allowance to 100% constables by amending Rule 3.21 of Punjab Police Rules, 1934 on the direction of the Punjab & Haryana High Court, whereas earlier only 60% constables were entitled for HRA.
The Cabinet also approved the rules made by the state government for the implementation of Right of Children to Free & Compulsory Education Act, 2009 with an objective to ensuring that all children, irrespective of gender and social category, have access to education, that enables them to acquire the skills, knowledge, values and attitudes necessary to become responsible and active citizens of India.
The Cabinet also approved Rs.262.48 lac for the completion of ongoing renovation and maintenance work at Ram Tirath Temple Amritsar besides giving ex-post facto approval for Rs.65.62 lac already spent on this project under Punjab Nirman Program for 2011-12.
The Cabinet also gave ex-post facto approval to the restructuring plan of Technical Education department besides also approved to include the lecturers’ category of technical education under the dynamic assured career progression scheme of Punjab Civil Services (ACP) Rules, 2011.
The Cabinet also gave approval for merger of the cadre of all different categories of Wildlife Officials/Officers with the Forest department to streamline the functioning of the Wildlife Wing in an efficient manner.
The Cabinet also gave go ahead to fill 100 posts of Agriculture Development Officers in the state Agriculture department in the pay scale of Rs.10300-34800+5000 and would entail an annual expenditure of Rs.3.50 crore on the state exchequer. Similarly, the Cabinet also approved to fill 94 vacant posts of Senior Assistants of direct recruitment quota in the Punjab Civil Secretariat.
The Cabinet also gave approval to amend the section 8 of the Punjab Prohibition of Cow Slaughter Act, 1955 to make it more stringent and punitive.
The Cabinet also gave ex-post facto approval to appoint the former Advocate General Mr. Hardev Singh Mattewal as Legal Advisor of the Govt. of Punjab w.e.f. June 15, 2011 till February 29, 2012.
Likewise, the Cabinet also gave ex-post facto approval to the medal winners of Olympic, Asian and Common Wealth Games namely Ms Manjit Kaur, Ms. Avneet Kaur Sidhu, Mr.Ronjan Sodhi, Mr. Palwinder Singh Cheema and Ms. Amandeep Kaur, who have been appointed as Deputy Superintendents of Police in the pay scale of 15600-39100+ 5400 grade pay w.e.f. July 19, 2011 as per their option. The Cabinet also approved the proposal of Sports department to appoint Ms. Ruby Tomar as Assistant Sub Inspector in the Police department who have recently won gold medal in Rifle Shooting at World University Games – 2011 in China.
The Cabinet also accorded ex-post facto approval to increase the upper age limit from 37 to 39 years for the recruitment of 5000 linemen in the Punjab State Power Corporation Limited as a one time measure.
The Cabinet also approved the proposal to extend the facility of medical reimbursement for indoor treatment to the wives/widows and unmarried/ unemployed daughters of freedom fighters on the pattern of same facility being given to the freedom fighters.
The Cabinet also gave approval to enhance the VAT on rice from 4 to 5% while it slashed the VAT on Sevian (Vercelli) from 12.5% to 5%. Apart from this the Cabinet also approved to convert the Punjab Value Added Tax (Fourth Amendment) Ordinance, 2011 (Punjab Ordinance No.10 of 2011) and Punjab Value Added Tax (Third Amendment) Ordinance, 2011 (Punjab Ordinance No.9 of 2011) into Act in the forthcoming session of the Punjab Vidhan Sabha. The Cabinet also decided to amend section 27(1) and (2) of Punjab VAT Act, 2005, to enhance the rate of tax on work contract from 4% to 5% through an Ordinance.
The Cabinet also approved to exempt the Special Economic Zone (SEZ) units from different taxes levied by the state government to bring them under zero rated category through amending section 17 of the Punjab Value Added Tax Act, 2005.
The Cabinet also gave approval to convert the Punjab Civil Services (Rationalization of Certain Conditions of Service) Repeal Ordinance, 2011 into Act in the forthcoming Punjab Vidhan Sabha session.
The Cabinet also gave ex-post facto approval to the notification to declare Rupnagar as new Divisional headquarter and also approved the creation of 59 different posts for office establishment.
The Cabinet also approved to upgrade the Kanugo Circle Talwandi Chaudharian in Kapurthala district and Banur in SAS Nagar Mohali as Sub-Tehsil respectively and also gave nod for the creation of eight posts each in both newly created sub-tehsils.
The Cabinet also gave nod to the Punjab Stamp (Dealing of under Valued Instruments) Second Amendment Rules, 2011.
The Cabinet also approved the conversion of the Ordinances relating to amendment in section 27 of Punjab Land Reforms Act, 1972, amendment in the different sections, sub-sections and preamble of Punjab Tax on Entry into Goods into Local Areas Act, 2000, amendment in Punjab Health Systems Corporation Act 1996 (Punjab Act No.6 of 1996), amendment in the sub section 1 of clause B of section 27 of Punjab Land Revenue Act, 1887, amendment in section 16 and 18 of Punjab Land Revenue Act, 1887, into Acts through presentation of a Bill in the forthcoming session of Punjab Vidhan Sabha.
PUNJAB ALL SET TO BECOME TOURISM HUB OF THE COUNTRY: SUKHBIR SINGH BADAL
· URGES UNION GOVERNMENT TO ACCORD PRIORITY TO TOURISM SECTOR
· FIRST INTERNATIONAL FLIGHT FROM MOHALI AIRPORT IN THE LAST WEEK OF OCTOBER
Chandigarh, SEPTEMBER 23: Punjab Deputy Chief Minister Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal today said that the State was all set to become the no. 1 tourist destination in the country with the development of international standard infrastructure in coming two years.
After inaugurating the maiden three day convention of Hotel and Restaurant Association of North India (HRANI), Punjab Deputy Chief Minister Mr. Badal said that now tourism has becomes the most important area for any country to usher in an era of overall development but unfortunately our country was lagging far behind on this front. He pointed out that now in the era of globalization , number of countries in the world were not only surviving but flourishing also due to their tourism potentials. He lamented that when India and China were viewed as big economic powers, our country was attracting less than 1/10th tourists in comparison to China and even small countries like Sri Lanka, Singapore, Malaysia and Indonesia were attracting more tourists than India.
Reiterating the Punjab Government’s commitment to create international level infrastructure especially in the key areas of Power, Connectivity and Road Infrastructure, he said that with the commissioning of three thermal plants the state would be power surplus within next one and half year. Besides this, all the major cities and towns of state were being connected with 4/6 lanes roads. He further said that with three international airports along with domestic flights from Sahnewal, Pathankot and Bathinda, it would be the one of the most air connected state of the country. He also said that first international flight from SAS Nagar International Airport for Abu-Dhabi was set to commence between October 25 and 30 this year. He said that three big convention centers were being set up in Amritsar, Ludhiana and SAS Nagar to provide business community an opportunity to convene big business meets. He said that the state government was also emphasizing on the infrastructure development of holy city Sri Amritsar Sahib and within next two years, zero pollution Pods would be made functional to ease the traffic congestions as well as to facilitate the visitors visiting Golden Temple.
Emphasizing the need for promoting Tourism in a big way across the country, the Deputy Chief Minister said that tourism was the only sector, where money was equally distributed amongst all sections from a Rickshaw Puller to Hotelier. He urged the Union Government to accord more priority to this emerging sector.
Earlier Mr. SH Sherwani, President HRANI delivered a key note address and Mr. Paramjit Singh, Chairman of convention committee, welcomed the Chief Guest. Prominent amongst others present on the occasion included Mr. Hira Singh Gabria, Tourism Minister Punjab, Mr. Navjot Singh Sidhu, Member Parliament, Mr. Inderbir Singh Bularia, Chief Parliamentary Secretary, Mayor of Amritsar Mr. Shwait Malik, Mrs. Geetika Kalha, Principal Secretary Tourism, Punjab, Mr. Rajat Aggarwal, Deputy Commissioner Amritsar and Mr. R.P. Mittal, Commissioner Police.
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PUNJAB APPROVES MASTER PLAN FOR 7 TOWNS
CHANDIGARH SEPTEMBER 23:
The Punjab Government today approved the Master Plans to ensure planned and integrated development of seven towns included Rajpura, Nawanshehar, Jagraon, Roopnagar, Pathankot, Gurdaspur and Kapurthala.
A decision to this effect has been taken in the 23rd meeting of Punjab Regional Town Planning and Development Board under the Chairmanship of Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal at Chief Minister's residence this morning.
Disclosing this here today a spokesperson of the Punjab government said that Mr. Badal directed PUDA to accommodate the objections of the general public received.
The Board also gave approval to include the gaps left along the road side areas in the master plan of GAMADA. It was also decided in the meeting that declare the mix land use policy for the agriculture land on the one side of the Zirakpur-Banur road near village Chaat that had been included in the master plan as agriculture land earlier, for which GAMADA would invite objections. With a view to regularize various facilities to the residents of Zirakpur it was also decided to fix the upper limit of the density as 300 persons per acre.
Prominent amongst those who were present in these meetings included Finance & Planning Minister Dr. Upinderjit Kaur, Chief Secretary Mr. SC Agrawal, Principal Secretary to Chief Minister Mr. DS Guru, Secretary Housing & Urban Development and MD PIDB Dr. Sukhbir Singh Sandhu, Chief Administrator GAMADA Mr. Saravjit Singh, Chief Administrator PUDA Mr. AS Miglani, Director Industries Mr. SS Bains and Chief Town Planner Mr. Kuldeep Singh Dhaliwal.
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PUNJAB ALL SET FOR PADDY PROCUREMENT
HOPE TO TOUCH 140 LAC MT RECORD PROCUREMENT TARGET THIS YEAR
CHANDIGARH September 23: The Punjab Government has geared up total procurement machinery in the state expecting a bumper crop of paddy this Khariff season.
According to a spokesman of Punjab Government said that the procurement in Punjab would begin on 1st October, 2011 that would continue upto 31st December, 2011. He said that 1745 procurement centres throughout the state have been equip with machinery and human resource to ensure hassle free procurement and timely payment to the farmers.
He said that the Punjab government has fixed 140 lac MT paddy procurement target for the central pool during current Khariff season from October 1, 2011 and it is estimated that PUNGRAIN would procure 20 percent, MARKFED 23 percent, PUNSUP 22 percent, PUNJAB WAREHOUSE 11 percent, PUNJAB AGRO 10 percent and FCI has been given 10 percent target of total procurement of paddy. He said that to avoid any inconvenience to the farmers, adequate arrangements for paddy procurement had been completed.
He said that for this purpose gunny bales had already been arranged. He said that all the procuring agencies had been directed to make all necessary arrangements of linking the proposed purchase centres/mandis with the storage points/milling centres in such a way so as to incur bare minimum expenditure on transportation.
He said that procurement would be continuing without any break in holidays also. He said that Minimum Support Price of Grade 'A' Paddy had been fixed for Rs.1110/- per quintal and Rs.1080/- per quintal for general variety. He said that officers had been directed to ensure the minimum support price for paddy procurement so that farmers could get MSP of their paddy
Spokesman further said that the agencies had been also asked to indicate at least one alternate storage point, where paddy could be stored in case of any exigency. This should be preferably got done by the agencies at the time of allotment of rice mills, he added. He said that a temporary purchase centre would operate only during the procurement period and no permanent staff of the procurement agency be posted their round the year.
He said that arrangements had been made in all mandis/permanent storage centres for monitoring and controlling procurement/milling operations throughout the season. .
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Chandigarh September 23:
Malout Institute of Management and information Technology Malout organizing a function for inauguration of the e-governance project of Transport Department Punjab Government. To grace the occasion State Transport Commissioner Mr. Harjit Singh IAS and the staff of DTO office Mukatsar and Chandigarh showed their presence. Dr. Iqbal Singh Brar Transport officer MIMIT Malout gave a warm welcome to them. Mr. Harjit Singh clarified the project and its functioning to all the students. He said that the students need not to pay visits to the DTO office now for getting their learning licenses issued. Now the issuing of learning license under the power of Principal. A big leap is taken by the Punjab Government by starting the project. The students will by facilitated within the institute regarding their licenses, no matter to which state they belong. Dr. Sanjeev Sharma, Regsitrar MIMIT Malout purpose a vote of thanks at the end.
VICTORY OF KHALSA PANTH – CM
Chandigarh September 22: Patron of Shiromani Akali Dal and Chief Minister Punjab Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today described the spectacular victory of Shiromani Akali Dal, the Sant Samaj and allies in the elections to the SGPC as a victory of the Khalsa Panth. “The opportunity to serve the Sangat is an act of grace of the Guru.
In a statement, Mr. Badal said “The Sikh Sangat has blessed with this opportunity again, and my heart is filled with humility and gratitude for this. We will try to even harder to be worthy of the trust reposed in us”. He profusely thanked the voters for exercising their franchise in favour of SAD. The victory is also a forceful mandate in favour of the party’s stand that Sikhs in Haryana opposed to moves to divide the community on the plank of a separate Gurdwara committee for Haryana through its cronies. He especially congratulated and thanked the workers and leaders of the SAD for converting the peoples’ support into concrete results.
Mr. Badal said the SAD was committed to upholding the glorious traditions of this century-old Sikh premier organization also known as Mini Parliament of Sikhs.
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ACCEPT SANGAT’S VERDICT WITH GRACE: SAD PRESIDENT TELLS OPPONENTS
Chandigarh September 22: The Shiromani Akali Dal President and Punjab Deputy Chief Minister Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal today said he had been deeply moved by the trust reposed by the Khalsa Panth in the programs and policies of the Shiromani Akali Dal in the just concluded SGPC elections. He thanked the Sikh sangat for the overwhelming mandate in favour of the SAD, the Sant Samaj and allies.
In a statement, Mr. Badal reiterated his and his party’s resolve to work day and night to justify people’s trust and will uphold the values that Gurbani teaches us. Mr. Badal said he had been surprised by the unwarranted hue and cry raised by the parties rejected by the Panth in the poll and said “ I hope they show more grace and dignity in true Sikh traditions and accept the verdict of the Sikh sangat in all humility. There is no place for arrogance in the face of collective will of the Khalsa Panth”.
The SAD President pointed out it was not only in Punjab alone, where the SAD-BJP were in government but also in Haryana the Khalsa Panth had placed its faith in the SAD and had thwarted those who were out to divide the community. "It is for the Congress sponsored Panthic Morcha to explain why our opponents met the same fate even in the Congress-ruled Haryana where the SAD won eight out of 11 seats. In fact, their plight in Haryana is even more pitiable as the main leaders of the Panthic Morcha, Jhinda and Nalvi, lost with humiliating margins.
Mr. Badal also felicitated the leaders and workers of SAD for this superb victory and stated the crushing defeat of the anti-panthic forces especially the Panthic morcha in these elections was a pointer towards its complete isolation and rejection of their immoral acts to capture SGPC.
Nine- member DELEGATION from independent national electoral commission calls on CHIEF ELECTORAL OFFICER punjab
Chief Electoral Officer Punjab Ms. Kusumjit Sidhu
Chandigarh September 21; A nine-member delegation from the Independent National Electoral Commission of Nigeria today called on Ms. Kusumjit Sidhu Chief Electoral Officer Punjab mainly on a study visit to observe the preparations for the forthcoming Assembly Elections in the state. The delegation was led by Prof. Lai Olurode, National Commissioner. It included three other Commissioners, one Resident Electoral Commissioner and four officials.
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During an extremely informative interactive session, the Nigerian delegation appreciated the electoral process in the largest democratically strong country like India. They also shared their country’s electoral process on the occasion. The delegation was also briefed by the CEO Punjab on the preparation for the polls, due in February 2012, summary revision of Electoral Roll and various other major challenges for the ensuing elections.
The Delegation evinced keen interest in the EVMs, Enforcement of Model Code of Conduct, and Poll related expenditure ceilings for candidates. Paid news and delimitation of constituencies were also discussed at length.
Later the delegation was also taken on a field visit to a Polling Station area of Village Mullanpur, in district Mohali
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Congress condemns biased and politically motivated usage of financial discretionary powers by CM and Dy. C.M
Sukhpal Singh Khaira
MLA Bholath
The off repeated allegations of favoritism, nepotism and biased working of the Badals stand vindicated as per reply of Punjab Govt. to Election Commission of India, on usage of financial discretionary powers by CM and Dy. C.M.
As per information available the Chief Minister and the Dy. Chief Minister have allocated most of their discretionary fund either for their home district or their constituencies as figures of whopping Rs. 4,035 lakh and Rs. 599 lakh for Muktsar and Bathinda respectively indicate. Documents show that though the CM and Dy. CM are responsible for development of the entire state, they have deemed themselves to be accountable to only people or voters in their own respective constituencies or maximum to that of Smt. Harsimrat Kaur MP Bathinda.
Serious allegations of bias towards Majha and Doaba areas by the Badal family have been leveled by virtually all political parties of state repeatedly. All major development projects like thermal plants, universities, engineering and medical colleges including centre sponsored ITI’s, all have gone to Malwa region. But what is striking in the latest information is the further bias within Malwa region by the Badals, when it comes to their home constituencies of Muktsar and Bathinda. It only goes to show that they both are insincere with other parts of Malwa at the cost of their home districts.
Therefore, the congress urges the CM and Dy. CM to be fair with the other parts of the state a well. They should realize that they are representatives of the people of Punjab and not only their areas, when it comes to use public exchequer money. The congress party demands a thorough probe into unfair, biased and politically motivated distribution of FDP by the CM and Dy. CM by an independent agency.
PUNJAB GOVERNMENT STARTS SOCIO-ECONOMIC AND CASTE CENSUS
Chandigarh Sept.21; With a view to identify B.P.L families and to ascertain the Caste status of the population Govt. of India has embarked upon a massive exercise of Socio-Economic and Caste Census in the country. State governments have been given responsibility to conduct the Census in collaboration with technology companies with the help of hand held tablet personal computers.
In Punjab ITI Ltd. is collaborating with State Govt. to provide technology input in terms of computer hand held Tablet P.C.s with touch screen and touch stick and data entry operators.
Punjab has appointed 13,059 Enumerators along with data entry operators who will be visiting each and every house hold to conduct census during the period from 20th Sept 2011 to 31st October 2011 to collect the data. Deputy Commissioner’s have been made the Principal Census officers for Rural and Urban centres except Municipal Corporations where Municipal Commissioner has been made the Principal Census officers. One Supervisor has been appointed for every six Enumerators to ensure the work quality.
It is mentioned here that earlier B.P.L. Census was conducted in 2001. However, as per the report of Tendulkar Committee in Punjab 22.1% of Rural Population and similarly 18.7% Urban Population is to be covered as BPL. Therefore, about 58 lacs people in state shall be declared as BPL on the basis of census data.
Sh. S.C Aggarwal, Chief Seretary, Govt. of Punjab, stated that various welfare schemes initiated by Govt. of India and State Govt. are aimed at BPL families therefore Socio Economic & Caste Census shall help in fixing and achieving the targets of various schemes aimed at poverty alleviation and employment generation. He further stated that the field officers have been asked to ensure that Enumerators visit each household on the pattern of main census during the next forty days.
Sh. K.S Pannu, who has been nominated as Nodal Officer for the census, stated that enumeration data of the main census shall be preloaded in the hand held tablet PC's and the Enumerators on door to door survey shall fill in the facts related to Socio Economic & Caste Census status of the families. He stated that this will ensure the coverage of 100% population. The data so collected shall be uploaded daily on the national server.
Sh. S.C Aggarwal, Chief Secretary, Govt. of Punjab, has appealed to the public to assist the Enumerators by providing correct information as and when they visit them.
BADAL VISITS FLOOD AFFECTED VILLAGES IN MALOUT AND FAZILKA AREA
NODAL OFFICERS TO BE APPOINTED SOON IN FLOOD AFFECTED VILLAGE
GIRDAWRI ORDERED TO ASSESS THE QUANTUM OF CROP LOSS
SRI MUKTSAR SAHIB/FAZILKA SEPTEMBER 21:
On the second leg of his tour to visit the ten flood affected villages in the Malout sub division of Muktsar district and eight villages in Fazilka district, Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today asked the Financial Commissioner Revenue to direct the concerned deputy commissioners to immediate initiate process for the conduct of Girdawri to assess the quantum of loss to the crops so that adequate compensation could be disbursed to the farmers at the earliest.
Addressing the media persons here at the residence of Member Parliament from Ferozepur Mr. Sher Singh Gubhaya at his native village Gubhaya this afternoon, Mr. Badal also announced to depute a nodal officer in each flood affected village to compile a comprehensive report on the problems faced by the resident, damage caused to crops and house property due to recent floods. He also directed the officers of Food & Civil Supplies department to ensure immediate supply of ration to the affected families. He also asked the civil surgeons of Muktsar and Fazilka to press into mobile medical teams for timely treatment and free supply of medicines to the flood victims besides making all out efforts to combat any sought of eventuality arising out of any epidemic like dengue and malaria. The Chief Minister also asked the Director Animal Husbandry to ensure adequate supply of fodder for the cattle.
The Chief Minister also asked the Chief Engineers of PWD (B&R) and drainage departments to immediately undertake the repair of damaged roads and other public installations, besides de-watering of water logged areas. He also asked the Chairman of the Punjab State Power Corporation Limited to immediately restore the power supply where it had been badly affected due to heavy floods. He also announced to construct a bridge in Dhani Natha Singh on the priority to provide better connectivity to the people with nearby villages.
Slamming at the Congress led UPA government for its apathetic attitude towards the plight of flood victims; Mr. Badal said that the quantum of natural calamity relief was too little to compensate the farmers. He said that the Center was giving just Rs. 1500 per acre for 100% loss whereas our government had been contributing Rs. 3500 per acre from state exchequer besides GoI’s amount. He ridiculed the Center for not giving due share to the states from the taxes collected by it in terms of Central Excise and Income Tax. Mr. Badal said he personally met the Union Home Minister Mr. P. Chidambaram several times for upward revision in the quantum of calamity relief norms but insensitive Centre did not pay any heed to our arguments. Mr. Badal said: “Centre which claimed to be a votary of the rights of the farmers was rubbing salt on their wounds by denying fair quantum of compensation in lieu of the huge loss suffered by them due to natural calamities”.
Replying to a query regarding the preparations for the procurement of Paddy, the Chief Minister said that elaborate arrangements had been made to ensure smooth procurement of paddy. Entire staff of the state procurement agencies had been geared up to conduct procurement in a hassle free manner.
Asked to comment on the alleged mal-practices in the general elections of SGPC, the Chief Minister said that Shiromani Akali Dal’s glorious performance in these elections have given sleepless nights to the opposition especially the Congress. Mr. Badal said that the PPCC President Amarinder Singh was saying the Congress party was not interested in the SGPC polls on one hand but on the other were issuing irrelevant statements in media blaming SAD for winning these elections by hook or crook. Such statements spoke of hypocrisy on part of Amarinder Singh, who apparently claiming to be the least interested in SGPC elections but his utterances was an ample proof for his indulgence in Sikh religious affairs contrary to his party’s credentials of secularism.
Mr Badal accompanied by Financial Commissioner (Revenue) Mr. AR Talwar, Principal Secretary Irrigation Mr.G Vajralingam visited the flood affected villages Tarkhanwala, Lakarwala, Khane-ki-Dhab, Bhulerian, Jhorar, Alamwala, Rattakhera, Lakhmireana, Khundehalal, Khunan Kalan in Malout sub-division of Muktsar district besides Dhani Natha Singh, Dhandi Kadim, Chak Khiwa Wala, Gubhaya, Ghurka, Mahatma Nagar, Teja Rohila, Mohardam Sher in Fazilka district.
BADAL UNDERTAKES WHIRLWIND TOUR IN FLOOD AFFECTED VILLAGES IN MUKTSAR DISTRICT
SLAMS CENTER FOR APATHETIC ATTITUDE TOWARDS FARMERS, DEMANDS IMMEDIATE UPWARD REVISION OF NATURAL CALAMITY RELIEF NORMS
MUKTSAR, SEPTEMBER 20
In a major relief to the farmers in the cotton belt, the Punjab Chief Minister Mr Parkash Singh Badal today announced to defer the Agricultural loans of the Co-operative societies in wake of the extensive damage caused to the crops and house property due to recent flashfloods.
An announcement to this effect was made by Mr Badal while interacting with the media persons here at village Bhai ka Kera this afternoon. The Chief Minister was on two-day tour to visit the flood affected areas in the Ferozepur, Muktsar and Fazilka District. Mr Badal directed the Principal Secretary Co-operation to immediately issue instructions to the Co-operative Banks to postpone the payment of loans. He said a comprehensive survey would be conducted soon to assess the extent of damage caused to the crops and other immovable property including houses etc and asked the Financial Commissioner (Revenue) to issue detailed guidelines to the Deputy Commissioners to make this entire exercise time bound. Mr Badal revealed 90% of crops have been totally perished in the region but the loss in real terms could be ascertained only after survey but fortunately no loss of human life was reported so far. The Chief Minister also asked the Principal Secretary Irrigation to depute staff of Drainage wing of the Department for de-watering from the Water Logged fields and localities round the clock.
Likewise, he also instructed the PWD (B&R) Department and Punjab Mandi Board to immediately undertake the repair of damaged roads and other public installations, besides restoration of electric supply by the Punjab State Power Corporation Limited. Mr Badal said colossal loss has been witnessed due to recent floods in this region perhaps for the first time in his life.
Lashing at Center for showing complete insensitivity towards the huge loss caused by the natural calamities Mr Badal said that the quantum of relief was too meager to make loss good. He said it was a mockery of the peasantry as Center was giving just Rs 1500 per acre for 100% loss whereas our government had been giving Rs 3500 per acre from its own resources in addition to it, to compensate the affected farmers to some extent. He slammed the Center for usurping state’s major share from taxes collected by it in terms of Central Excise and Income Tax. He said the Punjab government had been constantly mounting pressure on GoI to revise the quantum of calamity relief norms but of no avail and demanded its immediate upward revision. Even the visits by Central Teams to assess the damage were nothing but a sham, asserted Mr Badal. He said, “There was no point in shedding crocodile tears over the pathetic condition of the farming community if center was not sincere in its efforts to bail them out in this hour of crisis”.
The Chief Minister also categorically asked the Director Animal Husbandry to ensure adequate supply of fodder for the cattle in view of its acute shortage. He also asked the Director Health and Family Welfare to immediately depute special mobile medical teams in flood affected areas to ensure proper treatment and adequate supply of medicines to the people. The Chief Minister also asked him to initiate efforts on war footing to prevent any eventuality of outbreak of epidemic.
Mr Badal accompanied by Financial Commissioner (Revenue) Mr AR Talwar, Principal Secretary Irrigation Mr G Vajralingam, Special Principal Secretary to Chief Minister Mr KJS Cheema visited the flood affected villages Saravaan Bodla, Katteianwali, Pakki Tibbi, Gurusar Jodha, Baloch Kehra, Dabwakli Dhaab, Bhai ka Kera and Sham Khera during his first leg of tour.
Asked to comment on the malpractices adopted in the recently concluded elections for Shiromani Gurudwara Prabhandak Committee in Punjab, Mr Badal said that if this had been there than how we could have won 8 seats out of 11 in Haryana and all the three in Himachal.
WATER LEVEL AT PONG DAM TOUCHES 1390.56 FEET
Chandigarh September 20:-
The water level at Bhakra Dam today touched 1680.76 feet water mark whereas its capacity was 1680 feet. According to an official spokesman water level on this day during the previous year was recorded at 1680.74 feet.
According to data released by the Irrigation Department, the water level at Pong Dam has touched the level of 1390.56 feet whereas its capacity was 1390 feet.
The water level at Ranjit Sagar Dam has touched 524.90 meter whereas its capacity was 527.91 meter.
BADAL UNDERTAKES WHIRLWIND TOUR IN FLOOD AFFECTED VILLAGES IN MUKTSAR DISTRICT
SLAMS CENTER FOR APATHETIC ATTITUDE TOWARDS FARMERS, DEMANDS IMMEDIATE UPWARD REVISION OF NATURAL CALAMITY RELIEF NORMS
MUKTSAR, SEPTEMBER 20
In a major relief to the farmers in the cotton belt, the Punjab Chief Minister Mr Parkash Singh Badal today announced to defer the Agricultural loans of the Co-operative societies in wake of the extensive damage caused to the crops and house property due to recent flashfloods.
An announcement to this effect was made by Mr Badal while interacting with the media persons here at village Bhai ka Kera this afternoon. The Chief Minister was on two-day tour to visit the flood affected areas in the Ferozepur, Muktsar and Fazilka District. Mr Badal directed the Principal Secretary Co-operation to immediately issue instructions to the Co-operative Banks to postpone the payment of loans. He said a comprehensive survey would be conducted soon to assess the extent of damage caused to the crops and other immovable property including houses etc and asked the Financial Commissioner (Revenue) to issue detailed guidelines to the Deputy Commissioners to make this entire exercise time bound. Mr Badal revealed 90% of crops have been totally perished in the region but the loss in real terms could be ascertained only after survey but fortunately no loss of human life was reported so far. The Chief Minister also asked the Principal Secretary Irrigation to depute staff of Drainage wing of the Department for de-watering from the Water Logged fields and localities round the clock.
Likewise, he also instructed the PWD (B&R) Department and Punjab Mandi Board to immediately undertake the repair of damaged roads and other public installations, besides restoration of electric supply by the Punjab State Power Corporation Limited. Mr Badal said colossal loss has been witnessed due to recent floods in this region perhaps for the first time in his life.
Lashing at Center for showing complete insensitivity towards the huge loss caused by the natural calamities Mr Badal said that the quantum of relief was too meager to make loss good. He said it was a mockery of the peasantry as Center was giving just Rs 1500 per acre for 100% loss whereas our government had been giving Rs 3500 per acre from its own resources in addition to it, to compensate the affected farmers to some extent. He slammed the Center for usurping state’s major share from taxes collected by it in terms of Central Excise and Income Tax. He said the Punjab government had been constantly mounting pressure on GoI to revise the quantum of calamity relief norms but of no avail and demanded its immediate upward revision. Even the visits by Central Teams to assess the damage were nothing but a sham, asserted Mr Badal. He said, “There was no point in shedding crocodile tears over the pathetic condition of the farming community if center was not sincere in its efforts to bail them out in this hour of crisis”.
The Chief Minister also categorically asked the Director Animal Husbandry to ensure adequate supply of fodder for the cattle in view of its acute shortage. He also asked the Director Health and Family Welfare to immediately depute special mobile medical teams in flood affected areas to ensure proper treatment and adequate supply of medicines to the people. The Chief Minister also asked him to initiate efforts on war footing to prevent any eventuality of outbreak of epidemic.
Mr Badal accompanied by Financial Commissioner (Revenue) Mr AR Talwar, Principal Secretary Irrigation Mr G Vajralingam, Special Principal Secretary to Chief Minister Mr KJS Cheema visited the flood affected villages Saravaan Bodla, Katteianwali, Pakki Tibbi, Gurusar Jodha, Baloch Kehra, Dabwakli Dhaab, Bhai ka Kera and Sham Khera during his first leg of tour.
Asked to comment on the malpractices adopted in the recently concluded elections for Shiromani Gurudwara Prabhandak Committee in Punjab, Mr Badal said that if this had been there than how we could have won 8 seats out of 11 in Haryana and all the three in Himachal.
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