PUNJAB WOULD BECOME THE FIRST STATE IN COUNTRY TO START ‘CLUB HOCKEY’: SUKHBIR

• HOCKEY CLUBS TO BE SET UP IN JALNDHAR, AMRITSAR, LUDHIANA, BATHINDA AND MOHALI
• FREE FACILITIES WOULD BE PROVIDED TO SELECTED PLAYERS AFTER TRAILS
• TOP PLAYERS OF INTER CLUB TOURNAMENTS WOULD TRAINED FOR NATIONAL HOCKEY

CHANDIGARH, JULY 15: The Punjab is all set to become the first state in the country by launching ‘Hockey Clubs’ in six different districts, where the budding stars would included in the clubs and they would vie for the title in the inter club tournaments.

          Disclosing this, Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal, Deputy Chief Minister, Punjab said that the state government was committed to promote the National Game in the state and decided to set-up six hockey clubs at Jalandhar, Amritsar, Ludhiana, Faridkot, Ghudda (Bathinda) and Ajitgarh (Mohali), where the Astroturf’s of international standards have already been installed. He said that after setting up clubs, the state government would provide free coaching, hostel and diet to the players, who would remain successful in trails.

          The Deputy Chief Minister said that besides holding inter club competitions special camp would also be conducted to prepare the outstanding, where they can play against the players of other countries to improve their game and experience.  He said that Punjab Government would also engage the former hockey stars and Olympians for this purpose and to regain its glory in the game.

          Mr. Badal, who is also holding the sports portfolio in Punjab Government and President of Punjab Hockey, said that Punjab contributed a lot in Indian Hockey and presently there were maximum five players from Punjab in Indian Hockey Team to vie in the London Olympic.

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BADAL  ASSAILS  PAWAN BANSAL FOR CENTRE’s MOVE TO SHIFT “WATER” SUBJECT  FROM  STATE  LIST  TO  CONCURRENT LIST

BLAMES CHIDAMBARAM FOR KEEPING CMs  IN DARK OVER THIS ISSUE IN THE MEETING OF THE NORTHERN ZONAL COUNCIL

SAD BEING A VOTARY OF STRONG FEDERAL STRUCTURE TO OPPOSE THIS MOVE OUTRIGHTLY


Chandigarh, July 15-

Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today took strong exception to the revelation made by the Union Water Resources Minister Mr. Pawan Kumar Bansal regarding the Centre's proposed move to shift the subject of water from the “State list” to the “Concurrent list” of the Constitution with the purported objective to deal with water scarcity and conservation issues in the national interest.

            In a statement, Mr. Badal said that the Centre's intended move to transfer the subject of “Water” from State list to the Concurrent list was against the basic spirit of  federalism and would further weaken the States thereby encroaching upon their rights by depriving them of their legitimate and justified Constitutional rights. Mr. Badal, however, said that Centre should desist from taking this un-democratic step which would lead  to wide-spread resentment amongst the states. The Centre should rather sincerely strive to resolve the inter-State water issues within the ambit of settled and internationally accepted principles of the riparian law. 

The Chief Minister vehemently opposed the attempt of the Consultative Committee of Parliament constituted to form a new national water policy recommending the transfer of ‘‘Water’’ subject from state list to the concurrent list as mentioned by Mr. Bansal in a joint press conference addressed at Chandigarh along with the Union Home Minister Mr. P Chidambaram on Friday.  
         The Chief Minister lamented that it was unbecoming of a senior statesman like Mr. Chidambaram who kept the Chief Ministers in dark during the proceedings of the 26th meeting of northern zonal Chief Minister's conference held here under his Chairmanship, barely a few hours before.

         Mr. Badal said he was pained to note that Mr. Chidambaram asked all the Chief Ministers and their representatives present in the meeting not to raise any contentious issues like sharing of water and other
inter-state territorial disputes, which could mar the cordial atmosphere of the meeting. Adding further, he said these issues could be resolved later in a separate meeting. Mr. Chidambaram did not mention anything about the Center's insidious move of attempting to shift the water subject from the state list to the concurrent list. In the meeting of the Northern Zonal Council, Mr. Chidambaram should have specifically mentioned this because item no 1.9 of the agenda clearly stipulated the action taken report on the water issues. On the contrary, Mr. Bansal divulged these details in the presence of Mr. Chidambaram during a press conference here just an hour after the conference was over, which was highly deplorable and undesirable.

         Mr. Badal said that he particularly raised the issue demanding more political and financial powers for the states to strengthen the federal structure, but in reality the existing federal spirit in the country was being violated by the Center as it had been quietly shifting subjects from the state list to the concurrent list and concurrent list to Union list. He had even said in his opening remarks at the conference such violations on the Federal Principles would not only weaken the states but also create unnecessary complications, hampering smooth relations between Centre and the States. Mr. Badal categorically said that the Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) had ever been a votary of strong federal character and any such attempt on the part of Centre to deprive our state from its legitimate share of river waters would never be tolerated at any cost.

          Mr. Badal further said that his views on setting up of genuine federal structure were fully endorsed by none other than the Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Prof. P.K. Dhumal. He pointed out that his stand on the deliberate attempt of the Centre to dilute the federal structure has been vindicated by Mr. Bansal's remarks on shifting the water subject from
state list to the concurrent list. Mr. Badal said that it would have been better if the Union Home Minister had taken all the Chief Ministers present in the meeting into confidence and should have shared this proposed move with them to solicit their views in this regard. It didn’t behoove of the leader of stature like Mr. Chidambaram to misguide the Chief Ministers in the forum which had been created to resolve the contentious issues amongst the neighboring states amicably in perfect harmony rather creating mistrust and confusion, was totally unfair and unwarranted in the ethos of the true spirit of democracy.
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CM BLAMES UNION GOVERNMENT FOR ROTTING OF FOOD GRAINS

BADAL SLAMS UNION GOVERNMENT FOR KEEPING THE CMs IN DARK OVER THE SHIFTING OF WATER TO CONCURRENT LIST

SAD TO OPPOSE THIS PROPOSED MOVE OF CENTRE VEHEMENTLY-CM 

IT WAS A WRITING ON THE WALL THAT CONGRESS WOULD BE WIPED OUT BADLY IN THE GENERAL ELECTIONS- BADAL

CM BACKS THE DEMAND OF ‘ONE RANK ONE PENSION’ BY EX SERVICEMEN

Kolianwali (Sri Muktsar Sahib), July 15-
            Punjab Chief Minister Mr Parkash Singh Badal today directly held the apathetic attitude of the Congress led UPA Government at the Centre, responsible for the rotting of wheat grains in the state.
            Talking to the media persons here today on the sidelines of the second day of his Sangat Darshan programme in the Lambi Assembly segment, the Chief Minister said that the state government merely acts as a facilitator of the Union government in purchasing the food grains but the entire responsibility of its proper storage, lifting and movement lies on the Centre. However he said that the performance of the Union government on the matter was totally dismayed as neither it has been able to store the food grains properly nor had been the freight arrangements made in a proper manner. Mr Badal said that even despite of his personal requests to the top brass of the Union Government they have hardly paid any heed in granting permission for setting up new silos for storing the grains in the state. “The result of it is that the precious food grains produced after a lot of labour by the farmer gets spoiled in the state” added Mr Badal.
            When asked about the statement of Union Minister Mr Pawan Bansal regarding the Center’s proposed move to shift the subject of water from the State list to the Concurrent list of the Constitution, the Chief Minister said that the Center’s intended move was against the basic spirit of federalism which would further weaken the states. Mr Badal impressed upon the Centre to desist from taking this un-democratic step which would lead to wide-spread resentment amongst the states. The Chief Minister said that this issue was not discussed formally or informally in the meeting of the Northern Zonal Council adding the Centre had kept all the Chief Ministers present in the meeting in dark over the issue. He categorically said that the Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) had ever been a votary of strong federal character and any such attempt on the part of Centre to deprive our state from its legitimate share of river waters would never be tolerated at any cost. Mr Badal further said that SAD would vehemently oppose this proposed move of centre. 
          Lashing out at the Congress party, the Chief Minister said that the people of the country were fed up due to the wrong policies of the Congress and the crushing defeat of the Congress candidate in Dasuya by-poll reflects the state of their mind. He asserted that a wave of resentment was blowing against the Congressand it was a “writing on the wall” that Congress would be routed out badly in the General elections scheduled to take place in 2014.  “People are fed up of the corruption, inflation and unemployment, which have became synonyms of the UPA government, and they will certainly teach the Congress and its allies a lesson in Lok Sabha polls” added Mr Badal.  
            Favoring the demand of ex servicemen to grant them ‘One Rank One Pension’, the Chief Minister said that the Army plays a vital role in safeguarding the borders of the country so the Union Government was duty bound to pay attention towards their welfare. However he said that it was the irony of the fate that the present Congress led UPA government has not taken any step for the welfare and the proper rehabilitation of the ex servicemen. But he said that on its part the state government was making every possible endeavor for securing the interests of ex servicemen in the state.
            Replying to a query, the Chief Minister further said that the state government was fully committed to check the illegal mining in the state for which a new Mining policy would be announced by the state government in coming days. Mr Badal said that he had        already directed the Deputy Commissioners (DCs) across the state to take strictest possible action against the illegal miners in their respective districts so that it could be checked effectively.
            Earlier addressing the gathering during the Sangat Darshan, the Chief Minister reiterated the state government’s commitment to clean the river waters of the state. However Mr Badal lamented that the Congress governments in the state have not paid any heed towards it due to which the maximum contamination of the river waters has taken place during their rule.
            Exhorting the people to plant more and more number of trees, Mr Badal said that this step on one hand would help in reducing the day-by-day increasing pollution in the state and on the other hand it   would help in checking the spread of grave diseases like that of Cancer, Asthma, Diabetes and others caused due to it. Reiterating the slogan of ‘Each one, plant one'  the Chief Minister said that all the government departments, NGOs and religious bodies besides every individual needs to play a proactive role for checking the environmental degradation in the state by planting large number of trees.
            Meanwhile the Chief Minister was presented a Robe of honor and a sword by the villagers during the Sangat Darshan.   
            Prominent amongst those present on the occasion included Principal Secretary Social Security Mr R Venkatratnam, Special Principal Secretaries to the Chief Minister Mr KJS Cheema and Mr Gurkirat Kirpal Singh, Director Agriculture Mr Mangal Singh Sandhu, Director Social Welfare Mr HPS Nanda and SGPC Member Jathedar Dayal Singh Kolianwali. 

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PUNJAB TO RECRUIT 225 COACHES FOR 29 GAMES IN SPORTS DEPARTMENT


CHANDIGARH, JULY 15: The Punjab Government today decided to recruit 225 new coaches in Sports Department to improve the standards of game and to train the budding players at ground level.  The recruitment would be conducted through Punjab Subordinate Selection Board and the last date of submitting application is August 3, 2012.

          Disclosing this here today, an official spokesperson said that the Punjab Government has taken the decision to recruit 225 new coaches for 29 games with an aim to strengthen the sports in the state besides Sports Department. He said that for Athletics 23 new coaches would be recruited, 18 for Basketball, 5 for Lawn Tennis, 18 for Volleyball, 3 for Shooting, 4 for Cycling, 2 for Fencing,  17 for Football, 25 for Hockey, 3 for Kabaddi, 19 for Wrestling, 12 for Weight Lifting, 11 for Boxing,  11 for Handball, 11 for Judo, 2 for Cricket, 8 for Swimming, 6 for Table Tennis, 10 for Gymnastic, 3 for Kho-Kho and one coach for each game included Archery, Softball, Golf, Skating, Power Lifting, Horse Riding, Chess and Roping etc.

          The Spokesman said that the aspirants must pass matriculation or Senior Secondary with second division besides having diploma in concerned game from NIS. He said that the aspirants of those games, which have no diploma course, should have first position at National Level and InterUniversity in the concerned game competition with compulsory diploma in Physical Education or B.A. in Physical Education.

          The Spokesman said that desirous candidates can download the recruitment form from the website of Sports Department www.pbsports.gov.in and forms should be submitted with the office of Subordinate Selection Board, Tower 4-5, Forest Complex, Sector 68, Mohali by August 3, 2012.   

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PUNJAB GOVERNMENT TO ADD 350 NEW BUSES
IN PUNBUS- KOHAR

Chandigarh, July 15
The Punjab Government has decided to add 350 new buses in the existing fleet of PUNBUS to provide quality public Transport facilities to the people of the state.
Disclosing this here today, Mr. Ajit Singh Kohar Transport Minister Punjab said that at present total fleet strength of Punjab Roadways and PUNBUS was more than two thousand buses, including 1861 ordinary, 140 Integral coach and 20 super integral coach AC buses. He said that new buses to be added in the exiting fleet very soon. The Punjab Government has also added 210 ordinary, 25 HVAC and 8 Mercedes Benz buses in the fleet of PUNBUS last year.
Mr. Kohar further said that Punjab Roadways and PRTC have already been providing free/concessional travel facilities to the tune of Rs.65 crore per annum to the widows, handicapped persons, freedom fighters, students etc. To enable the common man to travel in the AC buses at very low fare, the Transport Department has introduced integral and HVAC bus
In order to upgrade and improve the infrastructure in order to provide better transport facilities, Mr. Kohar said that a state of art air conditioned bus stand would be functional at Mohali having the parking capacity of more than 1600 vehicles. Shopping malls, corporate offices, multiplex hotel etc. would be also be a part of this bus stand. Mr. Kohar also added that new bus stands have already been built at Ludhiana, Jalandhar, Hoshiarpur and Phagwara to provide facilities to the people and concrete efforts would be made to remove the short comings in the transport infrastructure.
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PUNJAB SETS RECORD WITH 12934951 TONS WHEAT PROCUREMENT
·      PROCURED 1841276 TONS WHEAT MORE THAN PREVIOUS SEASON
·      PAYMENT OF RS.16207.67  CRORE WAS MADE TO FARMERS

CHANDIGARH, JULY 15:
          The Punjab has set a new record in the production as well as in the procurement of wheat crop. In current Rabbi Season, the government managed to procure 12934951 tons wheat through its 1750 purchase centers established across the state. The wheat procured in this sesaon is 1841276 tons more than the previous year.
          An official spokesman of Punjab Government said that this year the payment of Rs.16207.67 crore was credited to the accounts of farmers for the purchase of wheat as compared to the payment of Rs.12178.91 crore made to the farmers previous year, which is Rs.4028.76 crore more than last season. He said that district Sangrur stood first with the procurement of 1221505 tons of wheat. He said that the farmers of this district had been made payment of Rs.1558.97 crore.
The spokesman further said that with 1043041 tons wheat procurement, district Ludhiana bagged second position. The Punjab Government has made Rs.1336.76 crore payment to the farmers of Ludhiana district.
He said that last year district Ferozpur got first position with 1382414 tons wheat procurement and Rs.1492.78 was credited to farmers' accounts for the procurement, while district Sangrur remained second with 1028766 tons wheat procurement. He further said that the main procurement agency of Punjab Government PUNSUP purchased 22.58 per cent (2921127 tons) share of the total procurement of wheat and stood first this year, while last year Markfed attained same position with 2596019 tons (23.40 per cent) wheat procurement.
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TEACHERS TO MAINTAIN SCHOOL DIARIES
ON WEEKLY BASIS-MALUKA

Chandigarh July 15: The Punjab school education department has directed to all the teachers in the state schools to maintain school diaries at every weekend with advance planning of study to the students to bring out more improvement in imparting quality education.
Stating this Mr. Sikandar Singh Maluka Education Minister Punjab said that the current academic year was being observed as qualitative year to bring out revolutionary educational reforms in the government schools in the state. Among various steps for improvement in imparting quality education, teachers have been instructed to maintain diaries on weekly basis containing syllabus covered, students monthly tests record, home work reports and planning for the next week.
The Minister further said that such dairies had already been distributed in all the schools. Now teachers had been advised to write weekly diaries instead of daily diaries in order to devote more time to the students during the school hours.
Mr. Maluka said that all DEO, BEOs and schools heads have been categorically directed to check the teacher's diaries at every weekend regularly and counter check these diaries with monitor's diaries being maintained daily by the class monitors. The field education officers would duly ensure in implementation of these directions in the greater interest of students.

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BADAL HAILS LANDSLIDE VICTORY OF SAD-BJP IN DASUYA BY-POLL

CRUSHING DEFEAT OF CONGRESS CANDIDATE REFLECTS THE RESENTMENT AMONGST PEOPLE AGAINST THE MISRULE OF UPA GOVERNMENT AT CENTRE- CM 

Chandigarh, July 14, 2012

            Hailing the landslide victory of SAD-BJP candidate Mrs Sukhjeet Kaur in the by-election of Dasuya assembly segment, Punjab Chief Minister Mr Parkash Singh Badal thanked the people of the area for reposing their full faith and confidence in the policies and programmes of the alliance government. 

            In a statement issued here today, the Chief Minister said that by-poll result was a forceful verdict for good governance and a stamp of approval on the futuristic vision unfolded by the SAD-BJP alliance in the state. Describing it as a “historic mandate in the favour of pro-people and development-oriented policies of SAD-BJP government, Mr Badal said that the spectacular by-poll result was a triumph of transparent, pro-people and effective governance of alliance over the divisive politics adopted by the Congress party. He said that by-poll in which the SAD-BJP candidate Mrs Sukhjeet Kaur gave a crushing defeat to her nearest rival Mr Arun Dogra of the Congress by a huge margin of 47431 votes was a testimony to the fact that now the anti-people face of Congress has been fully exposed before the people.
            The Chief Minister said that the SAD-BJP alliance, which was a votary of communal harmony, peace and development, had already created a new record in the state polity by staging come back to power for second consecutive term in assembly polls adding that now this victory has filled them with even greater humility, responsibility towards the aspirations of the people of the state in general and that of Dasuya assembly segment in particular. Mr Badal said that this result should not be merely interpreted as a victory in a by-election but it actually reflects the resentment amongst the voters against the “misrule” of the UPA government. He said that fed up by the wrong policies of the Congress led UPA government at Centre the people of the state were eager to rout it out from power thereby paving a way for the BJP led NDA, of which SAD was a key ally, to constitute the next government.  
            Meanwhile, Mr Badal thanked all the workers, leaders, office bearers and rank and file of SAD-BJP for working day and night to ensuring this thumping win for the ruling alliance in the by-poll.  He also thanked the people for reposing faith in the ethos of democratic values by exercising their franchise freely besides State Election Commission for ensuring a free and fair by-poll, as truly reflected in the results. 

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MAHESHINDER SINGH GREWAL APPOINTED AS ADVISOR TO CM

Chandigarh, July 13
Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today appointed former Minister and General Secretary Shiromani Akali Dal Mr. Maheshinder Singh Grewal as his Advisor.
Disclosing this here a spokesperson of the Chief Minister's office said that Mr Badal cleared the file to this effect today afternoon and formal orders of Mr Grewal’s appointment were being issued.
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26th meeting of Northern Zonal Council 
BADAL CALLS FOR GENUINE FEDERAL STRUCTURE 
DEMANDS IMMEDIATE INCLUSION OF CHANDIGARH & PUNJABI SPEAKING AREAS IN PUNJAB
SEEKS EFFECTIVE STEPS TO CURB TRANS-BORDER AND INTER-STATE SMUGGLING OF DRUGS 
CHIDAMBARAM FOR RESOLUTION OF CONTENTIOUS ISSUES IN TRUE SPIRIT OF COOPERATIVE FEDERALISM 
NEXT MEETING OF THE COUNCIL TO BE HELD IN FEBRUARY 2013 
Chandigarh, July 13, 2012

          Punjab Chief Minister Mr Parkash Singh Badal today called for setting up of genuinely federal structure in the country with more financial and political powers to the states, the need for which has been felt across a general spectrum of political opinion. 
          In his keynote address on the 26th meeting of Northern Zonal Council here, the Chief Minister, who is also the Vice Chairman of the council, said there was a wide consensus, cutting across party lines that the state governments need to be given much greater operational freedom in choosing and financing development priorities of their people. Showing deep concern over the violation of federal spirit by Centre, Mr Badal said that the tendency of the Center has been to usurp, through open and clandestine ways, the powers and authority of the states already ensured by the Constitution.  This tendency was on the rise at a scale never seen before. In certain cases, this violation of the constitution by the Center has been nothing short of “flagrant”, with the Centre willfully legislating on issues that fall in the States purview.
The Chief Minister pointed out the most dangerous exhibition of this tendency was seen in how the Centre had been quietly shifting subjects from the State’s List to the Concurrent List and from the Concurrent to the Union List. Such violations of the federal principle would not only further weaken the states but would also create unnecessary complications, hampering smooth relations between the Center and the states.
Demanding immediate transfer of Chandigarh and other Punjabi speaking areas in Punjab which have been kept out of the state, Mr. Badal said that the violation of the federal principle was also at the root of injustice done to the states in geographical and other issues. He said in Punjab these pending issues continued to remain a festering wound as we have been consistently demanding resolution of these contentious inter-state issues on the priority.
Pleading for rewriting the formula for devolution of Central funds, the Chief Minister said the states needed more funds for their primary developmental needs. He said “We have demanding that the states should be given at least 50% share in taxes collected from the states. The allocation of funds to the States should in fact be made growth dependent, so as to encourage the States and subjects to perform better”. The Chief Minister impressed upon the Centre for strengthening federalism by increasing devolution of Central funds to states           from the present 32% to 50%, along with change in the devolution criteria so that it was not detrimental to the interests of the relatively more developed states.
Emphasizing the need for restructuring the Inter State Council, Mr Badal said that it was the need of the hour in the true spirit of federalism for strengthening the states and ultimately the Union of Indian. He suggested that the Secretariat of the Inter-State Council should be attached to the Secretariat of the Rajya Sabha rather than being a department of Government of India (GoI).  All initiatives on the concurrent list may first be discussed in the Inter-State Council and approved by 2/3rd majority before given any legislative shape.  In case, the Inter-State Council was restructured into a constitutional and strong body, as suggested, the existence and relevance of the Zonal Councils could be also reviewed by the Inter-State Council and brought into its fold by amending the States Reorganization Act, 1956. Dwelling on the huge financial and economic loss suffered by the state due to flight of Industry from Punjab in wake of fiscal industrial concessions granted to Jammu & Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand by the Government of India (GoI), Mr Badal said they were not against granting these concessions to other states, but at the same time Punjab must be duly compensated by setting up SEZ for agro processing industry in the state. This initiative would not only boost agriculture economy but would also provide a level playing field.Underscoring the need for channelization of the remaining portion of 17.55 kilometers of Ghaggar river from Makorar Sahib to Karail out of total stretch of 40 kilometers which had been put on hold due apprehensions expressed by Haryana that it might cause adverse effect on the state, Mr Badal clarified that it was technically incorrect to withhold this Phase-II which forms a part of the complete project for construction of embankment and widening of river Ghaggar from Khanauri to Karail. He also mentioned that non construction of Phase-II would not only deprive the area covered by Phase-I of the benefits of channelization of Ghaggar river but also cause to devastation in balance reach.
Likewise, Mr Badal also raised the issue re-excavation of lower Lissara Nallah that originates from village Dhamot in Doraha block of district Ludhiana and outfalls into river Ghaggar, urging the Centre to prevail upon Haryana to get the nallah re-excavated in their part of the state and also direct removal of cross bundh, immediately, so that natural drainage of nallah of Punjab territory was not obstructed.
The Chief Minister also solicited Centre’s intervention to direct the Himachal Pradesh Government for immediately taking necessary corrective measures to prevent the discharge of industrial effluents into river Satluj by the industries/towns located in different parts of Himachal Pradesh i.e. Gwalthai Industrial Area, Industrial Area of Mehatpur town, Santoshgarh town, Industrial Area of Tahliwal town and industries from Nallagarh. He said the Punjab government had already initiated an ambitious project for cleaning of river waters and further delay on the part of Himachal Pradesh in this regard would defeat our objective to provide safe and clean drinking water to our people.
The Chief Minister also urged the Centre to direct the BBMB to restore the ownership of land and property which was acquired for Bhakra Nangal Project and Beas Project at Nangal and Talwara Townships, respectively, vested in the erstwhile state of Punjab before reorganization in 1966, which still vested in the state of Punjab under the Punjab Reorganization Act, 1966. He demanded that these properties which have been declared surplus should be immediately restored to Punjab, being the rightful owner.
Seeking immediate intervention of the Centre to curb the Trans-Border Smuggling in Punjab, Mr Badal apprised that state was facing a drug menace because of its close proximity to the international narcotics route covering Pakistan, Afghanistan and Iran. He pointed out that as the border was manned by the Central security forces therefore it was obligatory on the part of GoI to keep a strict vigil on the border to check this menace.
On the issue of smuggling of Poppy Husk from Rajasthan and its adverse impact on Punjab, the Chief Minister also sought direct intervention of GoI to direct the Rajasthan government to immediately take suitable steps to stop such illegal practice of drug trafficking into Punjab from its state where Poppy husk was sold freely and legally. Mr Badal also asked the GoI to compensate Rajasthan for the notional loss of revenue. Referring to inter-state smuggling of other drugs like Opium and Charas, he also stressed on the need to combat this menace in a systematic and organized manner for which inter-state coordination was mandatory and therefore neighbouring states of Rajasthan, Haryana, Himachal Pradesh and Jammu & Kashmir should make coordinated and focused efforts.
Seeking strict maintenance of 60:40 ratio in the allocation of posts between Punjab and Haryana, Mr Badal urged the Centre to direct the Chandigarh administration not to create unnecessary problems on an extremely emotive issue. He lamented that this ratio was being frequently disturbed by Chandigarh Administration adding that the sanctity of this decision should be maintained and Chandigarh Administration should take concrete steps to ensure that the ratio of 60:40 is maintained in all departments/categories of employees to maintain a proper balance.
          In his address the Union Home Minister and the Chairman of the Council, Mr P Chidambaram underlined the need to revive and strengthen the consultative mechanism of Zonal Councils and resolve the issues of common interest in spirit of cooperative federalism to promote better Centre-State and Inter State relations in our country.
          Listing few recent initiatives taken by the Union Government to strengthen the Centre State Relations, Mr Chidambaram said that firstly, a commission of Centre-State Relations under the chairmanship of Justice MM Punchi former Chief Justice of India was constituted to look into the changing dynamics of Centre-state relations in the context of social, political, economic, environmental, governance and other issues in the country. However he said that only 17 states have so far submitted their comments on the recommendations of the Commission’s report circulated to them about two years ago. Secondly the Union government has transferred the work of Zonal Council Secretariat to the Inter-state Secretariat and they were further strengthing the combined secretariat so that it was able to discharge its responsibilities in more professional manner.
          The Union Home Minister said the best strategy was to go ahead with the issues on which there was commonality of interest and try to resolve the contentious issues in an incremental manner in the spirit of cooperative federalism. He said that differences on one issue must not hinder the process of cooperation on other issues; on the contrary resolving many common issues might help in create an atmosphere of common interest and bonding which would further pave way for resolving the other contentious issues. Mr Chidambaram said that this had been the experiences in Centre-state relations in our country as also in other federal countries of the world and we must learn from these experiences.
          The Union Home Minister opined that frequent meetings of council should be held to resolve substantive issues of regional and national importance. He proposed to hold the next meeting of the council in February 2013 in Rajasthan or Jammu and Kashmir.
          Prominent amongst those present in the meeting included Governor of Punjab and Administrator, UT Chandigarh Mr Shivraj V. Patil, Chief Minister Delhi Mrs Sheila Dikshit, Chief Minister Haryana Mr Bhupinder Singh Hooda, Chief Minister Himachal Pradesh Prof Prem Kumar Dhumal, Chief Minister Rajasthan Mr Ashok Gehlot, Deputy Chief Minister Punjab Mr Sukhbir Singh Badal, Deputy Chief Minister Jammu & Kashmir Mr Tara Chand and Lt. Governor of Delhi Mr Tejendra Khanna. 
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PUNJAB GOVERNMENT APPOINTS DINESH LAKRA AND R.S.KHANDPUR AS CHAIRMAN
CHANDIGARH, July 13

Mr Dinesh Lakra has been appointed as Chairman of The Board of Governors of Shaheed Bhagat Singh College of Engg. and Technology Ferozepore.
A Spokesman of the Punjab Government today said that presently Mr Lakra has been working as the president of Laghu Udyog Bharti. Besides that Mr R.S.Khandpur, Director of Pushpa Gujral Science City, Kapurthala has been elected Chairman of The Board of Governers of Beant College of Engg. & Technology.
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CPS BABBEHALI RESIGNS FROM THE POST OF CHAIRMAN, MILKFED

CHANDIGARH, JULY 13:
Mr. Gurbachan Singh Babbehali, Chief Parliamentary Secretary, Agriculture, Punjab tendered his resignation from the post of Chairman, Milkfed. Disclosing this here today, Mr. Babbehali said that he was unable to pay due attention towards Milkfed because of his busy schedule as Chief Parliamentary Secretary, Agriculture. He said that he has submitted his resignation before Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh badal for approval.
Mr. Babbehali said that he also holds the post of Director, National Dairy Development along with the Post of Chairman, Milkfed. He said that with the resignation from the post of Chairman, he would automatically be relinquished from the duties of Director, National Dairy Development Board.
Elected as MLA from Gurdaspur constituency twice, Mr. Babbehali rendered his services as a Chairman, Milkfed continuously for seventeen years.
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SEVERE JOLT FOR CONGRESS AS ITS SENIOR LEADER DEEEPINDER DHILLON JOINS SAD

·        PEOPLE REPOSES FAITH IN SAD FOR PEACE AND COMMUNAL HARMONY - CM

·        CONGRESS PARTY HAS BEEN WIPED OUT FROM ROADMAP OF STATE- SUKHBIR SINGH BADAL

·        SAD TO BE BENEFITED FROM INCLUSION OF DHILLON- MAJITHIA

Chandigarh, July 12
In a major jolt to the Congress party senior Congress leader Mr. Deepinder Singh Dhillon joined the Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) along with thousands of his supporters, here today in the presence of SAD Patron & Punjab Chief Minister Sardar Parkash Singh Badal, SAD President & Deputy Chief Minister Sardar Sukhbir Singh Badal and President of Youth Akali Dal & Cabinet Minister Sardar Bikram Singh Majithia.
Welcoming him to the party fold, Patron of SAD and Punjab Chief Minister Sardar Parkash Singh Badal said that today was a Red Letter day for the SAD as a committed public leader like Mr. Dhillon had joined it. He said that with the joining of Mr. Deepinder, the SAD would get a fresh vigor and its base would be further strengthened in the state. Training his guns against the Congress party Sardar Badal said that it has always worked on the policy of "Divide and Rule" to capture power in the state whereas the SAD had remained votary of communal harmony and peace due to which people were reposing their unflinching faith in it. Recalling the age old ties of the Mr. Dhillon's family with the Akali Dal the Chief Minister said that his father had served as Attorney General during the government headed by Justice Gurnam Singh due to which they had cordial relations with each other. Terming Mr. Dhillon as young and dynamic leader Sardar Badal hoped that he would continue to serve the people of state with utmost commitment and sincerity in the times to come.
            In his address SAD President and Deputy Chief Minister Sardar Sukhbir Singh Badal termed it as a historic occasion which marked the eroding base of the Congress from Punjab. Terming it as a step forward towards the set target of SAD to rule the state for 25 years, he said that unconditional joining of Mr. Deepinder in the SAD would go a long way in further strengthening the base of the party. Lashing out at the Congress party he said that it has been nearly decimated from the state because the Congress leadership was completely insensitive towards the woes of the common man. However SAD President said that on the other hand SAD Patron and Punjab Chief Minister was totally dedicated to the cause of people's welfare due to which SAD has returned to power for second consecutive term. Sardar Sukhbir Singh Badal further said that Mr Dhillon, who belonged to a Panthic family, would be given a meaningful role in the party.
            In his address President of Youth Akali Dal and Cabinet Minister Sardar Bikram Singh Majithia said that owing to his dedication and commitment Mr. Dhillon was very popular amongst the people and the fact that as an independent candidate he had got more than 50000 votes during the recently held assembly elections reflected his acceptability amongst the masses. Welcoming Mr Deepinder into the party fold, he said that with the inclusion of a dedicated and upright person like him, the SAD would be immensely benefited in the coming days.  
            Expressing gratitude to Sardar Parkash Singh Badal, Sardar Sukhbir Singh Badal and Sardar Bikram Singh Majithia for gracing the occasion, Mr Dhillon said that he had parted ways with the Congress because its leadership had grossly ignored his commitment and concern for the common party workers. Mr. Deepinder further said that for more than two decades he had served the Congress party but his work was not acknowledged by the party leadership. He further said that the humility and dedication of Punjab Chief Minister Mr Parkash Singh Badal towards people of the state and the vision of SAD President Sardar Sukhbir Singh Badal for the overall development of Punjab and welfare of its people had encouraged him to join the SAD, unconditionally.

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PUNJAB TO START ONLINE REGISTRATION OF
 PROPERTY AND LAND – SUKHBIR
·FIRST STATE TO COME OUT WITH PEOPLE FRIENDLY TRANSPARENT PROCESS- MAJITHIA
·SAS NAGAR TO BE FIRST DISTRICT TO IMPLEMENT THIS PROJECT BY OCTOBER
Chandigarh, July 12: Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal, Deputy Chief Minister today announced that Punjab is all set to become first state in country to start online registration of property and land with the completion of pilot project in two districts of SAS Nagar and Shaheed Bhagat Singh Nagar.
In a meeting held to review the ongoing projects of Revenue Department, Mr. Bikram Singh Majithia, Revenue Minister informed that going by the commitment of SAD-BJP government to bring transparency in the revenue transactions, the revenue department is all set to implement online registration of Property and land and Mohali would be the first district in which this project would be implemented by October.
Explaining the details of the first of its own kind people friendly project, the Revenue Minister said that under the project, the buyer would send e-mail to the portal of Punjab Land Record Society requesting for the registration and he would be allotted a password through e-mail. He said that after that he would fill the details of the property on the browser of Portal and type himself the text of registration of document. He said that software itself Calculate the stamp duty and he would mention the challan number of deposit of stamp duty in the browser. He said that after the submission of the document through e-mail, the registration authority would check the document, accept it or reject it and give a print out of the registration to the buyer after depositing the registration fee.
The Minister informed that it was a pilot project and a team was working to solve the teething problem that would reduce the interaction between government and the people reducing corruption.
Lauding the initiative the Deputy Chief Minster said that we should further improve this project by coordinating with the banks for online deposit of stamp duty and registration fee so that visit of buyer to the treasury or bank could be avoided.
The Deputy Chief Minster said that by 2013 the revenue department should ensure expansion of this project to all the districts.
Prominent amongst others who attended the meeting included Mr. Parminder Singh Dhindsa, Finance Minister, Mr. Rakesh Singh, Chief Secretary, Mr. N.S. Kang, Financial Commissioner Revenue, Mr. Manvesh Singh Sidhu, Special Principal Secretary to Deputy Chief Minister.
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INTERVIEW OF REGISTRATION INSPECTORS AND CLERK IN 17 JULY
Chandigarh, July 12
The directorate local bodies (municipal election office) today announced interview schedule for the post of registration inspectors and registration clerk.
An official spokesman said that the interview for post of registration inspectors and registration clerk has been scheduled for July 17 at 10 a.m. in the office of directorate local bodies (municipal election office) sector 17C, Chandigarh. He said that the interview letters have been dispatched, if any candidate did not receive the letter, he /she could contact Superintend, municipal election office in person.
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PUNJAB TO HOST THIRD WORLD KABADDI CUP FROM DECEMBER 1 TO 15- SUKHBIR
·       12 TEAMS TO CONTEST IN MEN’s CATEGORY
·       PARTICIPATING COUNTRIES TO ENSURE PRIOR DOPE TEST

CHANDIGARH, JULY 12: Punjab would host 3rd World Kabaddi Cup from December 1 to 15, 2012. This decision was taken in a high level meeting held here today under the Chairmanship of Punjab Deputy Chief Minister Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal and attended by Information and Public Relations Minister Mr. Bikram Singh Majithia, Education Minister Mr. Sikander Singh Maluka, Industries and Commerce Minister Mr. Anil Joshi and MLA and former Indian Hockey Captain Padam Shree Pargat Singh.
          Mr. Badal said that Punjab Government was committed to promote Kabaddi at International level for making a strong plea for its inclusion in Olympic Games. He said that this 15 day Kabaddi extravaganza would be a memorable treat for Kabaddi lovers as the league matches would be held at different places throughout the state. He said that in men’s category 12 teams would be divided in two pools and each continent would have representation in this championship as Kenya’s Kabaddi team would represent African continent for the first time. He said that this championship would be on league cum knock-out basis and first two teams from each pool would play in the semifinals. He said that the decision on participating teams for women category would be taken later on.
          The Deputy Chief Minister categorically said that the state government was committed to ensure dope free tournament and for this purpose dope test would be mandatory for each player. He said that any player found guilty in dope test would be banned and every participating team has been asked to conduct dope test of its each player before the start of tournament also.

          Mr. Badal pointed out that it was SAD-BJP Government, which included Kabaddi, the mother game of Punjabis, in the list of recognized games and hosted first ever World Kabaddi Cup with first prize of Rs. 1 crore in 2010. Similarly, 2nd  World Kabaddi Cup was organised in 2011 with record first prize of Rs. 2 crore. He said that it was a matter of pride that non-Punjabi players have also shown great interest in this traditional Punjabi game and expressed confidence that in 3rd World Kabaddi Cup each participating team would be comprised of its native players.
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EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTES ASKED TO COMPLY WITH
 FIRE SAFETY NORMS STRICTLY-MALUKA

FIRE DEPARTMENT DIRECTED TO CARRY OUT CRASH INSPECTIONS

Chandigarh, July 12:
In a bid to ensure foolproof fire security arrangements to avert fire incidents, the Punjab Government has issued detailed instructions to all the educational institutes in the State for strict implementation of existing fire safety norms in the premises.
 Disclosing this here today Mr. Sikandar Singh Maluka,  Education Minister Punjab said that all the educational institutes had been asked to comply with these instructions in letter and sprit.
The Minister also directed the state fire services of Local Government department to carry out crash inspection of these educational institutes within three months to bring out improvements in accordance with existing instructions for ensuring the safety of school premises and sought a compliance report to monitor the situation.
He categorically said that orders have been issued making it mandatory for all educational institutes including managements, to obtain a ‘No Objection Certificate’ from the fire service department so that it could verify and check the fire-fighting arrangements and have gaps and deficiencies attended to.
The Minister further added that the Education Department already observing adequate precautions in the use of cooking facilities for mid-day meals being provided in the upper primary and primary schools in the State. Fire extinguishers have been provided to such schools.
The Education Minister said that children studying in educational institutes cannot take decisions for themselves in emergencies, and look up to the teachers and other elders for help and guidance. This places a far greater responsibility on those running these institutions.
 The Minister further said that unfortunately, commercialization and intense competition have led to schools being housed in ill-suited and congested localities in ill-designed buildings with inadequate floor-space, cramped seating arrangements, poor ventilation and lighting, and narrow passages. Such schools even have no necessary emergency escape routs.
He added, according to fire safety norms, one-storied school buildings are required to install fire extinguishers in every two classrooms and ensure proper exits for children. High-rise buildings (up to five-storied) should have overhead tanks, pumps and big fire extinguishing equipment.
The Education Minister emphasized that schools and colleges having science streams should be extra vigilant as science students perform experiments with various inflammable chemicals especially in chemistry laboratories that contained several inflammable chemicals. Without mincing any words, he said, “no leniency would be tolerated at any cost in ensuring fire fighting arrangements in the educational institutions”.

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KOT ISSE KHAN AND NIHALSINGH WALA UPGRADED AS NAGAR PANCHAYATS
CHANDIGARH JULY 12:
            Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today approved the upgradation of Gram Panchayats of Kot Isse Khan and Nihalsingh Wala in Moga district as Nagar Panchayats with immediate effect.
            Disclosing this here today the spokesperson of the Chief Minister’s Office said that Mr. Badal cleared the file to this effect this morning thereby giving nod for the issuance of final Notification in this regard.
…

EMPOWERED COMMITTEE APPROVES RS. 276 CRORE TERRY TOWEL MEGA PROJECT

RESOLVES PENDING ISSUES OF 10 MEGA PROJECTS
ALREADY CLEARED BY EC

PROMOTERS OF MEGA PROJECTS ASKED TO FURNISH QUARTERLY REPORTS TO UPDATE INDUSTRIES DEPARTMENT

CHANDIGARH JULY 12:

The Empowered Committee on mega projects today approved Rs. 276 crore Terry Towel manufacturing Mega Project to be set up by M/s. SEL Textiles Limited in Shaheed Bhagat Singh Nagar (Nawanshehar) district.
          A decision to this effect was taken in a meeting of the Empowered Committee chaired by Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal here at CMO this morning.  
Disclosing this here today the spokesperson of the Chief Minister's Office said that this mega project to be set up over an area of 125 acre would generate a direct employment potential for 1100 and indirect for 5500 persons.
The spokesperson further said that the empowered committee also gave its nod to resolve various pending issues related to 10 Mega projects, which had already been approved by the committee.  These projects included Nahar Spinning Mills, Malerkotla, Sportking India Ltd., Bathinda, Vardhman Special Steels Ltd, Ludhiana, Wazir Singh Yarns Pvt. Ltd., Amritsar, NDK Hotels & Resorts Ltd., Dalhausi Road, Gurdaspur, PR Infrastructures Ltd., Amritsar Ludhiana Integrated Textile Park Ltd., Consortium of M/s Penguin Builtech Pvt. Ltd. & Veer Builders Pvt. Ltd., Amritsar and Chadha Sugars & Industries Ltd.
The empowered committee also approved to continue the department of Industries & Commerce as nodal agency for the processing of integrated sugar complex cases under the integrated sugar complex policy in view of its vast experience to handle such projects. 
The committee also reviewed the status of mega projects and it was decided that all the promoters of the mega projects should be asked to furnish quarterly reports with regard to progress and the investments made in land, building and machinery to the department of Industries and concerned General Manager District Industries Centre so as to have regular input about the investments coming on ground. 
Prominent amongst those present in the meeting included Deputy Chief Minister Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal, Revenue Minister Mr. Bikram Singh Majithia, Finance Minister Mr. Paminder Singh Dhindsa, Tourism & Jail Minister Mr. Sarwan Singh Phillaur, Industries & Commerce Minister Mr. Anil Joshi, Chief Parliamentary Secretary Industries & Commerce Mr. NK Sharma,  Chief Secretary Mr. Rakesh Singh, Financial Commissioner Revenue Mr. NS Kang, Financial Commissioner Development Mr. GS Sandhu, Financial Commissioner Taxation Mr. CS Srivastva, Principal Secretary to Chief Minister Mr.SK Sandhu, Mr. AR Talwar, Principal Secretary Finance & Planning Mr. Satish Chandra, Principal Secretary Local Govt. Mr. Suresh Kumar Principal Secretary Industries & Commerce, Secretary Power Mr. Anirudh Tiwari, Principal Secretary to Deputy CM Mr. PS Aujla and Director-cum-Secretary Industries Mr. SS Bains, .

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CM MOURNS PASSING AWAY OF WRESTLER & VETERAN
ACTOR DARA SINGH

SUKHBIR BADAL AND BIKRAM MAJITHIA MOURNS THE DEATH OF
DARA SINGH
CHANDIGARH JULY 12:
Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today expressed profound grief and sorrow over the sad demise of renowned Punjabi wrestler and veteran Bollywood actor Mr. Dara Singh (84) who breathed his last at his residence in Mumbai after a prolonged illness this morning. 
In a condolence message, Mr. Badal described Rustam-e-Hind Dara Singh as a multifaceted personality who earned name and fame in the national as well as international arena of wrestling besides he also acted in over 100 films and remained Member Rajya Sabha from August 2003-09.  He was a fine human being with rare qualities of head and heart.  Mr. Badal also recalled the outstanding contribution of Mr. Dara Singh in making the Punjabi Cinema popular amongst the masses.  His memorable role of Hanuman in the famous television serial ‘Ramayana’ would be ever remembered by one and all.  In the death of Mr. Dara Singh a void has been created in the Indian film Industry which was difficult to be filled, added Mr. Badal. 
Mr. Badal shared his heart-felt sympathies with the members of the bereaved family and prayed to the Almighty to give courage to bear this irreparable loss and grant peace to the departed soul. 
Meanwhile, the Deputy Chief Minister Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal also condoled the passing away of Mr. Dara Singh describing him as a ‘versatile actor and superb wrestler of his times’ who ruled the hearts of the people across the country. Mr. Dara Singh was a trend setter in making the Punjabi cinema popular amongst the cinemagoers.  In his death India has lost a jewel and even the Punjab was bereft of its illustrious son.     
Information & Public Relations Minister Mr. Bikram Singh Majithia also deeply mourned the death of Mr. Dara Singh who hailed from village Dharmuchuk in Amritsar district and was a heart throb of millions of his fans and would ever remain alive in their hearts for his memorable roles in Hindi as well as Punjabi films besides an undisputed champion of champions in the wrestling ring.   
…

SUKHBIR MOURNS DEATH OF RUSTAM-E-HIND DARA SINGH
CHANDIGARH, JULY 12:
Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal, Deputy Chief Minister, Punjab today expressed profound grief on the demise of Rustam-E-Hind and former Member Parliament Dara Singh, who died at the age of 84 at Mumabi.
          In a statement issued here today Deputy Chief Minister said that with the death of Dara Singh we have lost a Punjabi jewel, who besides making the traditional Punjabi game of wrestling popular in international fora and has also gave a new identity to Punjabi films in Bollywood. He said that Dara Singh would remembered as a simple hearted person, who always remained attached with his soil and worked against the social evils including drug addiction through his favourite medium of cinema.
          Mr. Badal expressed his heartfelt sympathies with the bereaved family and prayed to Almighty to grant peace to the departed soul and strength to them to bear irreparable loss.
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MAJITHIA MOURNS DEATH OF RUSTAM-E-HIND DARA SINGH
CHANDIGARH, JULY 12:
Mr. Bikram Singh Majithia, Revenue and Public Relations Minister, Punjab today expressed deep grief on the demise of Rustam-E-Hind and Punjabi Jewel Dara Singh (84), who died at Mumbai after a brief illness.
 In a condolence message, Mr. Majithia said that with the death of Former Member Parliament and world renowned Punjabi wrestler Dara Singh, not only Punjab but the nation has also lost a great personality, who brought glories for the country by touching new  heights in the field of wrestling.
Mr. Majithia said that Mr. Dara Singh, who born in Dharmu Chakk village in  Amritsar district, had given new directions to the Punjab Cinema and also became a role model for Punjabis in Bollywood. He said that Mr. Singh was always acted against the social evils through his films. He said that he would always be remembered for his great contribution in wrestling, cinema and politics.
        Expressing sympathy with the bereaved family, Mr. Majithia prayed to the God to grant peace to the departed soul and strength to the family to bear this irreparable loss.
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PUNJAB CABINET AND CPSs MOURNS THE DEATH OF DARA SINGH

CHANDIGARH, JULY 12: 
Cabinet Ministers and Chief Parliamentary Secretaries of Punjab today expressed deep grief on the demise of Rustam-E-Hind and Bolywood star Dara Singh (84), who died at Mumbai after a brief illness.
In a joint condolence message, Mr. Chuni Lal Bhagat, Mr. Adesh Partap Singh Kairon, Mr. Gulzar Singh Ranike, Mr. Ajit Singh Kohar, Mr. Parminder Singh Dhindsa, Mr. janmeja Singh Sekhon, Mr. Sikander Singh Maluka, Mr. Anil Joshi, Mr. Surjit Singh Rakhra and  Mr. Saranjit Singh Dhillon ( All Cabinet Ministers of Punjab) Mr. Mantar Sigh Brar, Mr. Sohan Singh Thandal, Mrs. Mohinder Kaur Josh, Mr. Amarpal Singh Ajnala, Mr. Pawan Kumar Tinnu, Mr. Harmeet Singh Sandhu , Mr. Som Parkash, Mr. Parkash Chand Gargm, Mr. Des Raj Dhugga and Mr. N.K. Sharma (All Chief Parliamentary Secretaries of Punjab) said that with the death of Former Member Parliament and world renowned Punjabi wrestler Dara Singh, not only Punjab but the nation has also lost a great personality, who brought glories for the country by touching new heights in the field of wrestling and cinema.
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PUNJAB MINISTERS MOURN LEGEND DARA SINGH'S DEMISE
Chandigarh July 12:
Mr. Sarwan Singh Phillaur, Tourism and Cultural Affairs have expressed the passing away of Sh. Dara Singh after a brief illness. Terming Dara Singh as a legendary figure, Mr. Phillaur said that he would always be remembered for his portrayal of Hanuman in a mythological television series during his heydays. He was an "institution" in himself, said Mr. Phillaur. Recalling one of his meetings with Sh. Dara Singh, the minister said that the wrestler turned actor was one of the "finest human beings" whose demise ended an era.
Mr. Madan Mohan Mittal, Health and Family Welfare Minister, Mr. Surjit Kumar Jyani, Forest Minister Punjab and Sant Balbir Singh Ghunas, Chief Parliamentary Secretary Tourism and Cultural Affairs have also mourned the demise of the veteran actor, Sh. Dara Singh.
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Dara Singh was the Superman of our school days: Arvind Khanna

CHANDIGARH, July 12: Punjab Congress general secretary Arvind Khanna today condoled the death of noted film actor and wrestler Dara Singh. “Dara Singh was a legend and the superman of our school days”, Khanna recalled while paying his tributes to the great actor.
In a condolence message, the PCC general secretary said, it would give him a sense of extra pride when the students from other places will admire and idolize him. “I as a Punjabi always felt a strong sense of belonging with him”, he recalled.
Khanna said, Dara Singh was as much decent and gentle at heart as he was strong from outside. “He would always wear a characteristic smile on his face that was so gentle and friendly”, he said and added it was a great loss to Punjab in particular. 

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CM MOURNS PASSING AWAY OF WRESTLER & VETERAN
ACTOR DARA SINGH

SUKHBIR BADAL AND BIKRAM MAJITHIA MOURNS THE DEATH OF
DARA SINGH

CHANDIGARH JULY 12:
Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today expressed profound grief and sorrow over the sad demise of renowned Punjabi wrestler and veteran Bollywood actor Mr. Dara Singh (84) who breathed his last at his residence in Mumbai after a prolonged illness this morning. 

In a condolence message, Mr. Badal described Rustam-e-Hind Dara Singh as a multifaceted personality who earned name and fame in the national as well as international arena of wrestling besides he also acted in over 100 films and remained Member Rajya Sabha from August 2003-09.  He was a fine human being with rare qualities of head and heart.  Mr. Badal also recalled the outstanding contribution of Mr. Dara Singh in making the Punjabi Cinema popular amongst the masses.  His memorable role of Hanuman in the famous television serial ‘Ramayana’ would be ever remembered by one and all.  In the death of Mr. Dara Singh a void has been created in the Indian film Industry which was difficult to be filled, added Mr. Badal. 
Mr. Badal shared his heart-felt sympathies with the members of the bereaved family and prayed to the Almighty to give courage to bear this irreparable loss and grant peace to the departed soul. 
Meanwhile, the Deputy Chief Minister Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal also condoled the passing away of Mr. Dara Singh describing him as a ‘versatile actor and superb wrestler of his times’ who ruled the hearts of the people across the country. Mr. Dara Singh was a trend setter in making the Punjabi cinema popular amongst the cinemagoers.  In his death India has lost a jewel and even the Punjab was bereft of its illustrious son.     

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CM MOURNS UNTIMELY DEATH OF GURDEV SINGH BROTHER- IN- LAW OF SENIOR SCRIBE MS JOSAN

Chandigarh July 11-
Punjab Chief Minister Mr Parkash Singh Badal today expressed profound grief and sorrow over the untimely death of Mr. Gurdev Singh (34) brother in law of Mr M S Josan Bureau Chief Punjab Kesari Group Patiala, who died on his way to the holy pilgrimage of Shri Amarnath.
Mr Gurdev Singh is survived by father, mother, wife and two children.
In a condolence message, the Chief Minister shared his heartfelt sympathies with the members of the bereaved family and prayed to the Almighty to grant eternal peace to the departed soul and courage to bear this huge loss in this hour of crisis.
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BADAL FOR TIE UP WITH DAE FOR WATER PURIFICATION
CM REITERATES HIS COMMITMENT TO ENSURE SUPPLY OF SAFE POTABLE WATER IN EVERY NOOK AND CORNER OF THE STATE SINHA AGREES TO SEND TEAM OF WATER EXPERTS FOR ON THE SPOT ASSESSMENT OF THE SITUATION
Chandigarh, July 11-
            Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today urged the Secretary Department of Atomic Energy, Government of India (GoI) and Chairman Atomic Energy Commission (AEC) Mr. RK Sinha to tie up with the state government for recommending a suitable water purification technology to improve the quality of drinking water in the state. 
            Taking part in the deliberations after detailed presentation on the different aspects of drinking water and other related issues viz. quality monitoring, purification technology, preservation of crops, fruits and vegetables through radiation technology, nuclear power generation and bio degradable waste management, the Chief Minister apprised Mr. Sinha that the state government had already decided to carry out a comprehensive program of water analysis by drawing water samples from all the villages in order to ascertain the factors responsible for contamination of drinking water from the various sources. 
Mr Badal said that the quality of ground water had been adversely impacted due to the presence of uranium and other heavy metals especially in the districts of Muktsar, Bathinda, Moga, Ferozepur and Mansa in the Malwa belt which was needed to be addressed on the priority.  The Chief Minister said that water analysis laboratory was being set up at SAS Nagar under the guidance and expertise of Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC) at a cost of Rs 2.25 crore to test the quality of water and suggest suitable remedy for its treatment. He asked Mr. Sinha to send a team of water experts to suggest a time tested technology for ensuring supply of safe drinking water to the entire population across the state as the state Water Supply & Sanitation department being the nodal agency has been entrusted with this onerous task.  Reiterating his commitment to ensure supply of safe potable water in every nook and corner of the state, the Chief Minister assured of all possible help and co-operation to the visiting team for early and permanent resolution of the contamination of water.
            Mr. Sinha categorically said that the usage of fertilizers had no direct link with the presence of uranium in the underground water of Punjab as the Geological studies has revealed that this part of Himalayan Region had granite rocks in the sub soil which was the perceptible cause of heavy concentration of Uranium. He also mentioned that this Uranium was also present in neighboring states of Haryana especially in Hisar belt and Himachal Pradesh to some extent.
Referring to the selection of water purification technologies Mr Sinha said it all depended on the nature of contamination adding that different technologies were available for the removal of impurities from water Uranium and other heavy metal like led, mercury and arsenic besides iron commonly found in underground water and suspended particles, Bactria and other viruses predominantly infested the canal water. Likewise Mr Sinha pointed out to tackle the menace of salinity in the water through a different technology which was also a cause a grave concern.
Mr Sinha said that the department of Atomic energy through BARC had already signed an MoU with the Guru Nanak Dev University (GNDU) Amritsar for the analysis of water in the state. He said the initiative jointly taken by BARC and GNDU for this common cause would further intensify with the recent decision of the state government to carry out analysis of water by testing the samples across the state.
Mr Sinha informed the Chief Minister once the BARC received the report based on these studies only then suitable technologies could be suggested for improving the quality of drinking water. He said prima facie Reverse Osmosis (RO) technology was the most suitable solution for tacking the present situation, but a final technology could only be recommended after the analysis of entire data based on these studies. He deputed Joint Secretary Department of Atomic Energy (DAE) GoI, Mr KAP Sinha as Nodal Officer to co-ordinate with the Punjab Government in this regard.
Prominent amongst those who attended the meeting included Chief Secretary Mr Rakesh Singh, Financial Commissioner Development Mr GS Sandhu, Principal Secretary Rural Development and Panchayats Mr Mandeep Singh Sandhu, Principal Secretary Local Government Mr Suresh Kumar, Principal Secretary to Chief Minister Mr SK Sandhu, Special Principal Secretary to Chief Minister Mr Gaggandip Singh Brar, Principal Secretary Health and Family Welfare Mrs Vinnie Mahajan, Secretary Power Mr Anirudh Tiwari, Secretary Water Supply and Sanitation Mr Sanjay Kumar, Secretary Health and Family Welfare Mr Kamal Chaudhary, Technical Advisor to Chief Minister Lt. Gen. (Retd.) BS Dhaliwal, Vice Chancellor PAU Ludhiana Dr BS Dhillon, CMD PSPCL Mr KD Chaudhary and MD MILKFED Mr Balwinder Singh Sidhu.
Apart from these Mr Sinha was accompanied by his team members including Joint Secretary DAE Mr KAP Sinha, eminent scientist and associate director Bio-Medical Group BARC Dr SF D’souza, Fellow Nuclear Power Corporation of India Mr S Thakur, Head Food Technology Division BARC Dr AK Sharma, Head Desalination Division BARC Dr PK Tewari, Scientific Officer Environment Assessment Dr RM Tripathi, Senior Advisor to Director BARC Dr N Ramamoorthy, Head Technical Co-ordination and Technology Transfer Division BARC Mr SP Kale.       
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ALL IMPROVEMENT TRUST IN PUNJAB DISSOLVED
CHANDIGARH, July 11
Punjab Government today dissolved all the Improvement Trust in the state. Deputy Commissioners have been deputed administrator at the districts headquarters where as SDMs have been given the charge of dissolved Improvement Trust at the Sub Divisional Level.

It was disclosed by an official spokesman. He said that the dissolved 28 Improvement Trust included: Abohar, Amritsar, Jalandhar, Ludhiana Sangrur, Bathinda, Fazilka, Patiala, Phagwara, Fardikot, Pathankot, Rajpura, Kartarpur, Gurdaspur, Hoshiarpur, Khanna, Nangal, Moga, Kapurthala, Malerkotla, Nabha, Batala, Samana, Samana, Nawan Shahar, Barnala, Roopnagar, Kotakpura and Tarn Taran.
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SUKHBIR, MAJITHIA, CHEEMA CONDOLE DEATH OF GURDEV SINGH BROTHER- IN- LAW OF SENIOR JOURNALIST M.S JOSAN

Chandigarh July 11 : The Punjab Deputy Chief Minister Mr Sukhbir Singh Badal today expressed deep shock at the untimely demise of Mr. Gurdev Singh brother in law of Mr M S Josan Bureau Chief Punjab Kesari Group Patiala, who expired during pilgrimage to Shri Amarnath.
            Mr Gurdev Singh, 34, is survived by father, mother, wife and two children.
            Mr Badal expressed heartfelt sympathies with the bereaved family and prayed to Almighty to give peace to the departed soul and strength to them to bear this irreparable loss.
Mr. Bikram Singh Majithia Revenue and Public Relations Minister has also condoled the death of Mr Gurdev Singh.
            In a separte Message Dr. Daljit Singh Cheema MLA and Secretary and Sokesman of Shiromani Akali Dal has also condoled the untimely demise of Mr Gurdev Singh.

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PHYSICALLY CHALLENGED EMPLOYEES TO GETCONVEYANCE ALLOWANCE AS PER THE 5TH PAY COMMISSION: DHINDSA

CHANDIGARH, JULY 11:
The Punjab Government today issued instructions to provide conveyance allowance to all the physically challenged employees of the state as per the recommendations of 5th Pay Commission.
In a statement issued here, Finance Minister Mr. Parminder Singh Dhindsa made it clear that physically challenged employees were entitled to get both Handicapped Allowance and Conveyance Allowance in accordance with 5th Pay Commission. He ssaid that instructions in this regard have been issued to all the Departmental Heads, Commissioners of Divisions, Deputy Commissioners, District and Sessions Judges, Registrar, Punjab and Haryana High Court and Sub Divisional Officers to strictly implement the orders. He said that some section of employees expressed apprehensions about the conveyance allowance. Minister said that through these instructions, it had been made clear that all such handicapped employees were entitled to get both handicapped allowance and conveyance allowance.

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THANDAL URGES FARMERS TO PLAY PROACTIVE ROLE IN PRESERVING GROUND WATER

·     SAYS, CULTIVATION OF CASH CROP IS BETTER OPTION TO GET RID OF VICIOUS CYCLE OF WHEAT-RICE ROTATION
CHANDIGARH, JULY 11:
Mr. Sohan Singh Thandal, Chief Parliamentary Secretary, Irrigation today called for promoting cash crops to improve the economy of farmers besides saving precious ground water resources.
In a press statement, he said that the depletion of ground water of Punjab has reached at alarming stage. He said that out of 137 Blocks, 100 Blocks have already been demarked in dark zone, wherein the sub-soil water was not even fit for human consumption.
Mr. Thandal said that a special team of Planning Commission of India, which recently visited Punjab, had exposed the heart-wrenching scenario of Punjab by disclosing the presence of heavy metal like; uranium and arsenic in ground water. He said that the reckless and undue use of ground water, pesticides and fertilizers would lead the state to bleak future.
Mr. Thandal appealed the farmers to opt for cash crops like; pulses and vegetables, besides adopting subsidiary occupations like; fishery, dairy farming, poultry and emu farming to supplement their income. He said that the Punjab Government has been giving subsidies to the farmers in order to encourage them to adopt subsidiary occupations.
Chief Parliamentary Secretary said that the Punjab Government was chalking out an elaborate policy to recharge the ground water, besides strengthening the canals’ embankment to check the seepage.

PUNJAB GOVERNMENT ISSUES NEW POSTING
ORDERS OF 3 POLICE OFFICERS

Chandigarh, July 11: The Punjab government has today issued new posting orders of three Police Officers. According to an official spokesman Mr. Amardeep Singh Rai, IPS who has completed his Central deputation has been posted as IGP, Headquarters, Punjab till Mr. Kuldeep Singh rejoins as IGP/Hqrs, Punjab, Chandigarh after completion of his leave. Similarly, Mrs. Vibhu Raj, IPS after completion of her Central deputation has been posted as DIG, Police Crime Wing, Punjab, Chandigarh and Mr. Khubi Ram, DIG/Security as DIG, Punjab Police Control Room, Chandigarh.

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NRI COMMISSION SEEKS DETAILED REPORT FROM SSP PATIALA IN A DOWRY CASE AGAINST NRI HUSBAND

CHANDIGARH, July 11
The NRI commission today sought a detailed report from SSP Patiala on or before August 24, 2012 regarding the dowry complaint filed by Harmanjeet Kaur against her NRI husband Harminder pal, having Passport no.F8819018 issued on 10.07.2006.
A Spokesperson of the NRI Commission today said that Harmanjeet Kaur has alleged in her complaint that after the marriage in 2007, she was regularly harassed by her in-laws for dowry. She has also alleged that her parents had given Rs. 10 lakh to her in-laws on their constant demands, resultantly her husband got permanent residency in Italy.
The Spokesperson further said that the commission sought a detailed report from SSP Patiala in this case and also ordered to look into the allegations contained in the complaint and to take an appropriate action. The Commission also asked IG NRI Affairs, who is also a nodal officer for NRI Affairs to look into the matter.  He also said that the commission also sent a copy of complaint to the Passport officer Jalandhar to take appropriate action under the Passport Act 1967.  
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UGC LAUNCH HELPLINE FOR VICTIMS OF RAGGING
UGC TOLD TO TAKE STRICT ACTION AGAINST THE RAGGERS

Chandigarh, july 11:
            To rein in the scourge of Ragging in educational institutions, UGC has launched a helpline for the victims of Ragging.Disclosing this here today a official spokesman said the Punjab Government was committed to eradicate the scourge of Ragging from the educational institutes .He said instruction had been issued to the education department to take strict action against the Raggers.
The spokesman said that the victims of Ragging could now dial a toll free number 1800-180-5522 and register their complaint. He said the guidelines framed to stop Ragging was now available on the UGC website www.ugc.ac.in. He said that the UGC had also issued instructions to all the educational institutes to paste a copy of the guideline on the notice board of the institute concerned. He said the it had also made mandatory for the educational institutes to depute a nodal person, to whom the victims could contact for help. He further said that as per the instructions from UGC the educational institutes would now had to constitute a committee to check the menace of Ragging. He said that this committee would ensure that  the recommendations of Suprem court of india and Justice Ragwan committee was duly adhered to.
 He said that as per the instruction from UGC the entrants and their parents would now have to submit in writing that they were against the Ragging. He said that the heads of the educational institutions had also been empowered to initiate any action the Raggers.He said that UGC had uploaded a DVD on its website,the heads of the educational institutions had been asked to download it and ensure its screening for the students. He said that in case any educational institute found guilty of not implementing the guidelines, strict action would be taken against it.
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PHYSICALLY CHALLENGED EMPLOYEES TO GET 3 PER CENT QUOTA IN PROMOTIONS

• PB GOVT ISSUED INSTRUCTIONS TO STRICTLY IMPLEMENT THE ORDERS

CHANDIGARH, JULY 11:
The Punjab Government today issued strict instructions for the implementation of 3 per cent quota in promotions to physically challenged employee of the state with effect from 6th March, 2011.
Disclosing this here today, an official spokesperson of Social Security and Women and Child Welfare Department said that written instructions in this regards have been issued to all the departmental heads, Commissioners of Divisions, Deputy Commissioners, Registrar, Punjab and Haryana High Court, District and Sessions Judges, Sub Divisional Officer (Civil) and Chairman, Punjab Public Service Commission to strictly implement 3 per cent quota in promotions to all the physically challenged employees.
He said that with these instructions, the orders of Hon’ble Punjab and Haryana High Court of 23th March, 2012 have also been attached. The spokesman further said that as per the orders of Court, this department would identify the concerned posts, on which the physically challenged employees were to be promoted. He said that all the departments have been asked to furnish the details of the action taken in this regard within one months of the receipt of this letter.
He said that besides this, physically challenged employees were entitled to submit their special claim, if any, before the competent authority.

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PUNJAB ISSUES STRICT DIRECTIONS FOR TIMELY PUTTING COURT CASES/ CONTEMPT NOTICES BEFORE CS

CHANDIGARH, JULY 10:

The Punjab Government today issued strict directions to all department heads for immediate putting up the court cases, in which orders or contempt notices are issued to the Punjab Government by honourable courts.

          Disclosing this here today, an official spokesman said that it has come to the notice of Chief Secretary that various departments were not putting the cases related to contempt notices issued by hon'ble Supreme Court of India and Punjab and Haryana High Court in stipulated time frame. He said that the delay in these serious matters caused much trouble in presenting the actual situation before the honourable courts.

          The Spokesman said that Chief Minister has issued stern directions to the all concerned officials to immediately produce such matters, in which notices were issued by Courts to the Chief Secretary. He said that all Administrative Secretaries would ensure that such orders/notices are put before the Chief Secretary immediately besides putting up completing the cases in all respects before producing it in advance of the last date. 

          The Spokesman said that all Administrative Secretaries would also further convey the directions to the Head of the Departments/Boards and Corporations falling under their control. He said that the erring officials would have to face the music.
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40-Dasuya Assembly Constituency

CHANDIGARH,   JULY 10:
To enable the workmen working in the factories situated within the Jurisdiction of 40-Dasuya Assembly Constituency to exercise their franchise in the jurisdiction of the Poll for by-election from the 40-Dasuya Assembly Constituency to be held on 11-07-2012, the Punjab Government has declared that 11-07-2012 (Wednesday) shall be the weekly paid holiday for all factories where 'Wednesday' is not close day within the jurisdiction of the 40 Dasuya Assembly Constituency in lieu of their normal weekly holiday.
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BADAL PRAYS SPEEDY RECOVERY FOR DARA SINGH
CHANDIGARH JULY 10:
Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today prayed to the Almighty for well being and speedy recovery of Rustam-e-Hind wrestler and veteran bollywod actor Mr. Dara Singh who is convalescing at a private hospital in Mumbai following a massive cardiac arrest. 
            In a message, the Chief Minister ardently wished a quick recovery for Dara Singh and offers prayers for this celebrity and son of Punjab along with millions of his fans praying for his healthy and long life. 
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PUNJAB TO IMPART FREE STENOGRAPHY TRAINING TO SC GRADUATES: RANIKE

• ASPIRANTS WOULD ALSO GET Rs. 750 MONTHLY SCHOLARSHIP

• PRIORITY TO CANDIDATES FROM BPL FAMILIES

CHANDIGARH,   JULY 10: The Punjab Government would impart free stenography training and a basic computer course for one year to the graduates of Scheduled Castes besides providing them a monthly scholarship of Rs. 750.
         
          Disclosing this here today, SC/BC Welfare Minister Mr. Gulzar Singh Ranike said that desiring candidates can send or submit their detailed applications for the 2012-13 sessions with the principal Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Institute, Sector 60, Phase-3B2, SAS Nagar (Mohali), District Welfare Officer, Ambedkar Bhawan, Amritsar, District Welfare Officer, Ambedkar Bhawan Mallwal Road, Ferozepur and District Welfare Officer, Sewa Singh Theekreewala Road, Patiala by July 27, 2012.

          Mr. Ranike said that said the candidate should be resident of Punjab and belongs to Scheduled Castes and his/her age should not be exceeded 30 years on June, 30, 2012. He said that priority would be given to the candidates from the below poverty line families. He said that in absence of BPL category students, the candidates having annual income of less than Rs. 1 lakh would be considered.  He said that if again the seats would remain vacant, the candidates having annual income of more than Rs. 1 lakh would be considered but they would not be able to get monthly scholarship of Rs. 750.   
          The Minister informed that there were total 80 seats in stenography at Mohali including 40 in Punjabi and 40 in English while at Amritsar 25 seats of Punjabi stenography, in Ferozepur 50 seats out of which 25 in English and 25 seats at Patiala of Punjabi stenography. He said that after completion of application processes at different centers, interview would be take place in above centers at 10am on July 30, 2012.

          Mr. Ranike said that the candidates can also get more information from the landline phones including 0172-2228396 (Mohali), 0183-2583166 (Amritsar), 0175-2370574 (Patiala) and 01632-220133 (Ferozepur).
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PUNJAB PLANS DIGITAL MAPPING OF ALL VILLAGES TO CHECK ENCROACHMENT OF VILLAGE COMMON LAND

• WOULD MAINTAIN TOTAL DATA OF COMMON FACILITIES IN ALL VILLAGES

Chandigarh, July 9:
The Punjab government today approved the major initiative of digitally mapping of all villages of Punjab in collaboration with Remote Sensing department of Punjab Agriculture University, Ludhiana. Punjab would be the first state in the Country to initiate digital mapping of all 12,000 plus villages in the state.
Disclosing this here today Mr. Surjit Singh Rakhra, Rural Development & Panchayat Minister said that he has approved this major exercise to get a detailed view of all villages through satellite imaging and by digital mapping, the department would be able to have clear pictorial view of location and measurement of village common land, the extent of encroachment on these lands, the common facilities available in all villages, road network and other requirements of villages.
Emphasizing on the upkeep and maintenance of infrastructure of rural areas, Mr. Rakhra said that with the digital mapping of the villages we would be able to monitor the requirement of every village sitting at headquarter. He said that SAD-BJP government was committed to provide world class infrastructure in all villages and this exercise was first step in this direction.
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PUNJAB NOTIFIES SPV FOR UPKEEP AND MAINTENANCE OF INDUSTRIAL AREAS

Chandigarh, July 9: The Punjab government today notified the Punjab Common Infrastructure (Regulations & Maintenance) Act 2012 to create Special Purpose Vehicle comprising of all allottees of Industrial Area for upkeep and maintenance of Common Infrastructure in Industrial Areas of the State.
According to an official spokesman, the Act emphasis on the creation of Industrial Infrastructure through public private partnership and encouragement is being provided by State Government for development of Industrial Focal Points and parks in Private Sector. The spokesman said that, there is need for creating a statutory framework to provide for the regulation and maintenance of common infrastructure i.e. roads, parks, street lights, water supply and sewerage system, garbage treatment facilities, drainage water sewerage treatment plant, common effluent treatment plant etc. in an Industrial Area and to change for the common maintenance expenses.
The objective of the Special Purpose Vehicle would be to provide efficient service to the Allottees at reasonable service charges and to work for the cause of good maintenance of common infrastructure. He said that the Special Purpose Vehicle would operate within its jurisdiction on ‘no profit, no loss’ basis.
The spokesman said that the funds to be given to the Special Purpose Vehicle would be out of the proceeds of the Municipalities. He said that the percentage of funds to be given would be decided by the State Government through an executive order. He said that these funds would be transferred by the concerned Municipalities to the ‘Common Infrastructure Maintenance Fund’ to be created and maintained in the Department of Local Government. He said that the department of Local Government would in turn, transfer the money out of this Fund to the concerned Special Purpose Vehicle as per its requirements which would be assessed and approved by a committee consisting of Chief Secretary, Ex-Chairman, Principal Secretaries of Industries & Local Government departments with MD of PSIEC as Member Secretary. It may be added that the Punjab has 42 Focal Points out of which 15 have been transferred to Local Government department.
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IRRIGATION DEPARTMENT ANNOUNCED ROTATIONAL IRRIGATION PROGRAMME FROM 11 TO 18 JULY

CHANDIGARH, JULY 10:
            The Irrigation Department, Punjab has announced the Rotational Programme for irrigation for the Kharif Season through Canal water from 11-7-2012 to 18-7-2012. The channels and branches off-taking from Ropar Head Works, the channels of Sirhind Canal System would run on the priority basis from Abohar Branch, Patiala Feeder, Sidhwan Branch and Bathinda Branch and  Bist Doab canal  respectively.
            Disclosing this here today a spokesman of the Irrigation Department said that the distributaries and branches of BML, Ghaggar Link and its off-taking channels i.e. Ghaggar Branch and Patiala Minor, in Group ‘B’, being in the first preference, would run to their indent. Balance water supplies available, would be utilized in Direct Distributaries of Group ‘A’.
            The spokesman further said that Punjab channels and branchs off-taking from Harike and Ferozpur Head Works, Abohar Branch off-taking from Sirhind Feeder and its distributaries, in Group ‘B’ being in first preference, would run to their indent. Balance water supplies available, would be utilized in Direct Distributaries of Sirhind Feeder in Group ‘A’.
          The spokesman also said that the in the Upper Bari Doab Canal system, Main Branch Lower with its distributaries, being in the 1st preference, would run to their indent. Balance water supplies available, would be utilized in Lahore Branch, Sabhroan Branch amd Kasur Branch Lower with their distributaries, respectively.
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SHARE FROM VAT INCOME: CHUNNI LAL

CHANDIGARH, JULY 9: The Punjab Government has notified the revised 'Punjab Municipal Fund Act-2012' with effect from May 5, 2012. Now the income share of Local Bodies Department in the VAT collection would increase by 1 percent.

        Disclosing this here today Local Bodies Minister Bhagat Chunni Lal said that with the amendments in 'Punjab Municipal Fund Act-2012' the income share of Local Bodies Department from VAT would be increased up to 11%, which was  earlier 10% in the state.

He said that despite having limited revenue resources, the Punjab Government had to face a fiscal deficit of                 Rs.100 crore after lifting octroi from petrol and diesel in the state. He
said that the Government has taken this step in view of the making Local Bodies and to expedite the pace of ongoing development projects in the urban areas through out the state.
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PB GOVT ORDERS TO HIRE EX-SERVICEMEN THROUGH PESCO

CHANDIGARH, JULY 9:

The Punjab Government issued instructions to all the departments to hire ex-servicemen through Punjab Ex Servicemen Corporation (PESCO). In a notification issued to all the Departmental Heads, Financial Commissioners and Administrative Secretaries of Government Department/Public Sector Undertakings/Boards/Corporations, they have been asked to ensure the implementation of these directions. An official spokesman of Punjab Government said that a detailed report in this regard has also been sought from departmental heads within 10 days, which would be submitted before Principal Secretary, Defence Services Welfare Department.
. He said that the officers have been directed to specify, whether private security guards had been hired by them, if yes, how many through PESCO. They had also been asked to mention the reasons for not hiring security guards through PESCO.

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ANIL JOSHI ORDERS TECHNICAL INSTITUTIONS TO ESTABLISH GRIEVANCES REDRESSAL COMMITTEES
CHANDIGARH, JULY 9:
Mr. Anil joshi, Technical Education Minister Punjab today issued instructions to all the technical institutions to establish Grievances Redressal Committees to solve the disputes among students. He has issued these instructions on the basis of the guidelines of All India Council for Technical Education.
Mr. Joshi said that it has been made mandatory that these Grievances Redressal Committees should be approved by the All India Council for Technical Education. Besides that appointment of Ombudsman would also be done by the technical universities with the purpose to redress of grievances of the students, parents and others.
Mr. Joshi said that all AICTE approved institutions would also have to publish detailed information including the constitution of the Grievances Redressal committee, name and address of its members and Ombudsman complete address in their website, prospectus and notice boards for wide publicity.
He said that All students, their parents and others may approach to the Grievances Redressal Committees of the concerned institution in the first instance in case of any complaint.  He said that if they are not satisfied with the decision of the committee, they may send their appeal to the Ombudsman directly. The Ombudsman would here the appeal against the decision of Grievances Redressal Committes and ensure its disposal within one month of the receipt of the appeal.
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PB ISSUES INSTRUCTIONS TO IMPLEMENT SC SUB PLAN ON HIMACHAL PATTERN

CHANDIGARH, JULY 9:

The Punjab Government instructed all the departments to implement Scheduled Castes Sub Plan (SCSP) on Himachal Pardesh Pattern. Disclosing this, an official spokesman of Finance Department said that all the Departmental Heads, Divisional Commissioners, Deputy Commissioners, District and Sessions Judges and Registrar, Punjab and Haryana High Court have been asked to promptly act for the implementation of these instructions. He said that all these officers have been asked to act in accordance with the decision taken in the meeting held on 30th December, 2010 under the chairmanship of Chief Secretary, Punjab.

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TYTLER’S SELECTION AN INSULT TO HUMANITY-SAD APPEALS TO PM TO INTERVENE

Chandigarh, July 9 :

Dr. Daljit Singh Cheema
Secretary & Spokesman,
Shiromani Akali Dal.

The Shiromani Akali Dal today strongly opposed the decision of the Congress led UPA government to depute Congress leader and main culprit in 1984 sikh massacre Jagdish Tytler to lead the Indian delegation to the London Olympics and said that inclusion of a person accused of grave human rights violation is an insult to the humanity and would send wrong signal worldwide. The only explanation for his selection as leader of the Olympic delegation can be that Congress party was with Tytler, is with Tytler and will remain with Tytler what ever the allegations against him may stand.
                        The party urged the Prime Minister of India Dr. Manmohan Singh to immediately intervene and reverse the decision without any delay.
                        In a statement released from the party head office here today, the party Secretary and Spokesman Dr. Daljit Singh Cheema said that it was surprising that a man who led violent mobs in the streets of Delhi to massacre innocent sikh children, ladies and men  is being chosen for such a honour of leading the country at the time of Olympic games. One fails to understand that why  a person who had been found to be guilty of such heinous crime and who had been indicted by the Nanavati Commission has been chosen for such a great assignment. It shows the insensitivity of the Congress led UPA government for the feelings of right thinking countrymen in general and  sikh community in particular. “This action is totally unjustified and highly provocative and  amounts to rubbing salt on the wounds of sikh community”, he added.  
                        The party urged the Prime Minister that if the name of Jagdish Tytler is not taken out it will denigrate the name of the nation at international level.
                        Dr. Cheema further said that one fails to understand that why the same person is being chosen time and again by the Congress led UPA government when it knows very well that on many previous occasions the Congress party had to withdraw his name due to mass public resentment. It clearly reflects that someone at the top in the Congress party is hell bent to honour Jagdish Tytler for what he did to please his political masters in November 1984.
                        Dr. Cheema also expressed strong resentment on the behaviour of the Congress led UPA government and said that this also sends a wrong message to the investigative agencies who are investigating the cases of 1984 sikh massacre. This has also shattered the hopes of thousands of the aggrieved families who are fighting for justice for the last 27 years. 

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Congress allegations of partisan and highly politicized police machinery stand vindicated vis a vis the attack on African student Yannick Nihangaza.

Sukhpal Singh Khaira
Ex-MLA

                The partisan, highly politicized, inefficient and lackadaisical working of the Punjab Police stands exposed in the murderous attack on an African student Yannick Nihangaza more than two and a half months back in Jalandhar.
            The allegations of shielding the guilty, harboring the accused, obstructing justice have come from the family of Mr. Yannick at Patiala yesterday. The family has questioned the inordinate delay of 79 days in arresting the main accused and that too after the media highlighted the gravity of the crime.
            The allegations coming from a neutral foreign victim have not only substantiated but also vindicated the oft repeated allegations of political vendetta in Punjab. The case of Mr. Yannick is a perfect example of a force that is highly politicized and works for extraneous considerations. It also indicates how the police force can manipulate cases to the advantage of the mighty and the powerful.
            Congress equates the case of Mr. yannick with thousands of cases of political vendetta slapped against congressmen in Punjab for the last over five years of Akali rule. Only recently a person was killed in V. Mansoorpur near Mukerian but the accused due to his political connections not only scott free but have manipulated a false cross case by inflicting self injuries and procuring a false medico legal report.
            Police and govt. doctors often procure false medico legal report (by underhand means or political pressure) and slap a cross case in the severest and the most heinous crimes to pressurize the genuine victims into a compromise.
            Therefore, the congress not only condemns the shoddy attitude of the Punjab police in the matter as it will bring disrepute to the state in other countries but also demands that the remaining accused be arrested without further delay. ‘Justice delayed is as good as justice denied’, particularly when a foreign student was in India for the purpose of education and is now in coma, justice should be rendered immediately.

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SPARE NO ONE IN AFRICAN ASSAULT CASE- SUKHBIR DIRECTS COMMISSIONER POLICE

• CS TOLD TO EXTEND ALL HELP TO HIS FATHER

Jalandhar, July 6: The Punjab Deputy Chief Minister Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal today directed Chief Secretary, Punjab Mr. Rakesh Singh to immediately get in touch with African national Nestor Ntibateganya father of 24 year old student Yannick Nizhanga, who is in coma since last two months after assault a group of youngsters on April 21 in Jalandhar.
          Taking serious note of assault of a foreign national, Mr. Badal directed Chief Secretary to contact his father to access his immediate requirements and extend all possible medical and financial help. Talking to media persons Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal said that he has also directed Commissioner of Police Mr. Gaurav Yadav to expedite the hunt for remaining accused in the case and spare no guilty in the case, whosoever he may be.
Mr. Yadav informed Deputy Chief Minister that two accused were arrested by Jalandhar Police and charge sheet had been filed against them whereas other accused in the case were absconding. It was informed that according to reports from civil surgeon Patiala, Yannick Nizhanga was admitted in ICU ward of Colombia Asia Hospital in Patiala since last two months and he was in coma.

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MALUKA CAUTIONS PEOPLE REGARDING FRAUDULENT TEACHER RECRUITMENT ADVERTISEMENTS

Asks police to book people giving such advertisements

Chandigarh, July 6:
Education Minister Mr. Sikander Singh Maluka today cautioned un-employed youth not to fall in the trap of fraudulent advertisements being published in some newspapers regarding recruitment in the education department.
In a statement issued here today the Education Minister said that certain fraudulent advertisements had come to his notice and he had already directed police to arrest such people who were duping unemployed youth on the name of getting them recruited for certain posts in the education department.
He said that education department would give the advertisement in the official website whenever there is any vacancy in the department. He said that the department has not authorized anyone to seek applications or sell forms for vacancies that do not occur. He sought the help of people to identify such people who were giving fraudulent advertisements.
It may be added that Mohali Police had already arrested one person who was during unemployed youth with fraudulent advertisements.

PUNJAB TO INSTALL FIRE CONTROL SYSTEM AT KISAN BHAVAN WITH RS 1.29 CRORE
CHANDIGARH, July 6
The Punjab Government has decided to install a ultra modern fire control system at Chandigarh situated Kisan Bhavan with the cost of Rs 1.29 crore.
A spokesperson of the Punjab Government today said that in first phase, stairs would be constructed in Kisan Bhavan as an alternative for rescue operation.
He said that for that purpose Punjab Mandi Board has already invited tender from registered contractors. He said that the total estimate cost of this project was Rs 1.29 crore , from which Rs 21.68 Lakh would be spent on the stairs. Tenders in this regard would be opened on july 13 at 4 PM, he added. He further said that the Punjab Government has ordered to complete the whole project within three months. 
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Punjab Government gave appointment letters for the regular PCMS-I cadre to 388 MBBS doctors.

Chandigarh, 5th July:

                        The Punjab Government gave appointment letters for the regular PCMS-I cadre to 388 MBBS doctors. These appointment letters were handed over to the newly appointed doctors by Sh Madan Mohan Mittal, Health & Family Welfare Minister, Punjab during a ceremony at Parivar Kalyan Bhawan, Chandigarh. These doctors were also allocated  on the spot postings on the stations of their choice as per their merit. Smt Vini Mahajan, Principal Secretary, Health; Smt Raji P. Shrivastava, MD PHSC; Sh Raj Kamal Chaudhary, Secretary, Health & Family Welfare; Sh S.K. Sharma, Mission Director, NRHM, Punjab; Dr J.P. Singh, Director Health Services; Dr Karanjit Singh, Director Family Welfare; Dr Ashok Nayyar, Director ESI and Dr Pyare Lal Garg, ED, SHSRC were present on the occasion.
                      

  While extending a warm welcome to the newly appointed doctors, Sh Madan Mohan Mittal reiterated the Punjab Government’s commitment to provide better health care facilities to the people and stated that new recruitments in the department are being done at a large scale with the objective to meet the gap of shortage of doctors and para-medics. He added that with the joining of these new doctors, the health services in the state would definitely improve to a further level. He informed that prior to these 388 MBBS doctors, the department had during the last month, also issued appointment letters to 180 new regular specialist doctors. Similarly other medical and paramedical vacancies are also being filled to facilitate better medical services for the people. The Minister expressed satisfaction that the entire process of this recruitment had been very fair and transparent and even the Doctors are being given the choice stations on the spot, according to their merits. While addressing the newly appointed doctors, Sh Mittal said that Doctors are considered next to the God and are blessed with the skills to save precious lives, and hence no one can take their place.  He exhorted them to work serve the community with utmost dedication and live up to the expectations of the public. Health Minister also handed over the appointment letters to 6 clerks and 16 class IV employees appointed on compassionate grounds in the Health Department, Punjab.
                        Smt. Vini Mahajan stated that, further improvement in the health sector in the state was one of the top priorities of the Punjab Government and all possible steps are being taken in this direction. She welcomed the newly appointed doctors on the rolls of Health Department and urged them to work with honesty and sincerity and make their full efforts to deliver good health care services to the people.
                        Ms Raji P. Shrivastava gave orientation to the new doctors regarding the services being provided in the hospitals and other programmes under Punjab Health Systems Corporation.                      Sh S.K Sharma, while addressing the new doctors told them about the National health programmes and other initiatives and services being extended under the National Rural Health Mission, Punjab. Dr J.P Singh gave orientation to the doctors regarding various types of services and duties. He also informed them regarding the special arrangements made for medical fitness tests at designated places in order to facilitate their early joining in the department. Besides this, different senior officers of the department held brief induction orientation on various health issues and programmes during the occasion.
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KAIRON URGES UNION FOOD MINISTER FOR TIMELY SUPPLY OF GUNNY BALES

CHANDIGARH, JULY 5:
Mr. Adaish partap singh kairon, Food & Civil Supplies Minister Punjab urges union food ministry for timely supply of gunny bales for kharif 2012-13 to punjab. Minister said that Many States including Punjab had to face problems during Rabi 2012-13 due to delayed and short supply of gunny bales. Punjab is yet to receive 9930 bales against the indent of 161720 bales of Rabi 2012-13.        

           Mr. kairon said that to ensure hassle free procurement of paddy during Kharif 2012-13, Punjab Government has already placed an indent of 7.71 lac bales of 50 kg new jute bags with DGS&D on 23.05.12 along with remittance of advance funds. The State Govt. has been requesting the Union Government at various levels to supply new jute bags to Punjab by 30.09.2012. However, the Govt. of India has intimated that only 5.9 lac jute bales could be supplied to Punjab leaving a gap of 1.81 lac bales.
                   Apprehending the shortage of gunny bales due to slow supplies, Food & Civil Supplies Minister Punjab met the Union Food Minister Prof. K.V.Thomas and urged him to direct the concerned departments for speedy supply of jute bags to the State. He said that the State Government is aware of the situation and is constantly monitoring the supplies of gunny bales and would be impressing upon the Government of India for timely supply of Jute Bags in the interest of the farmers.

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 WITHDRAW PROPOSAL OF LEVYING TAX OVER 12% ON ALL FOREIGN REMITTANCES TO INDIA FORTHWITH – BADAL WRITES TO PM
CHANDIGARH JULY 05:

            The Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today urged the Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh to immediately withdraw the proposed rate to taxation, in excess of 12% on all foreign remittances to India, being unreasonably high. 
            In a letter to the Prime Minister, Mr. Badal said that it has come to his notice that the Union government has proposed to impose a tax on remittances from NRIs working and settled abroad.  He pointed out that the Punjabi Diaspora had already aired its displeasure at this move because Punjab has substantial population working abroad which was the sole bread earner for their families living in India.  These individuals work under difficult conditions, separated from their families, in order to earn their livelihood.  A tax on this meager remittance amount would hit at their very existence and cause much pain and consternation.
            Mr. Badal further stated from the media reports it appeared that the tax had been levied in order to check illegal inflow of money which may be used for drugs and other illegal activities.  However, resorting to taxation was not the solution to the problem.  Even, agricultural income was shown in the IT returns, but it is not taxed by the government.  Thus, the Union government may asked the beneficiaries to reflect such income received from abroad in their IT returns but such income should be exempted from income tax, added Mr. Badal. 
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CM SEEKS PAWAR’S INTERVENTION FOR STARTING AC TRAIN FOR FERRYING FRUITS & VEGETABLES FROM PUNJAB

CHANDIGARH JULY 05:
The Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today urged the Union Agriculture Minister Mr. Sharad Pawar seeking his personal intervention to immediately start an Air-Conditioned Train from Punjab to other market destinations across the country so that the farmers from state could market their produce in a better manner. 
            In a communiqué to Mr. Pawar, the Chief Minister apprised him that GoI under the National Horticulture Mission had already started an Air-conditioned train for ferrying fruits and vegetables from Surat to Agra via New Delhi.  The train has been conceived with the aim to increase the shelf life of the fruits, which shortens if transported by road since the latter involves a longer journey time.  Studies also revealed that 30% of such goods perished if transported by goods train. 
            The Chief Minister also mentioned that Punjab has also diversified its agriculture outputs and today the state, in addition to food grains was also producing vegetables and fruits in large quantities.  Lacs of storage facilities have however shortened the shelf life of this produce. 
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BADAL ANNOUNCES TO SET UP AN ADVANCED INSTITUTE OF DAIRY FARMING AT MOHALI IN COLLABORATION WITH ISRAELI FIRM DAIRY FARMING SOLUTIONS (DFS)
STATE GOVT. COMMITTED TO ENSURE FREE, FAIR AND PEACEFUL CONDUCT OF DASUYA BY-ELECTION
BLAMES CENTRE SOLELY FOR DENYING TRANSFER OF CHANDIGARH TO PUNJAB
MOHALI JULY 05:
            Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today announced to set up an advanced institute of dairy farming at Mohali in joint collaboration with the world renowned Israeli firm Dairy Farming Solutions (DFS) to impart latest technical know-how to the dairy farmers to improve the quality of milch cattle besides scientific handling and processing of milk through a chain of milk plants of Milkfed across the state. 
            This announcement was made by Mr. Badal at the valedictory function of the two-days state level seminar on “Advanced Technology in Dairy Farming” organized by the Punjab Dairy Development Board here at state institute of Health & Family Welfare. 
            In his address, the Chief Minister said that dairy farming has a huge scope and bright future in the state because the conventional farming in terms of Wheat & Paddy had already reached at a point of saturation.  He asked the dairy development department to work out a comprehensive plan to ensure cheap loans from the Cooperative Banks especially to the small and marginal farmers who had a herd of 2-4 animals so that they could supplement their income from the dairy farming.  He assured the Punjab Progressive Dairy Farmers’ Association of all possible help to make dairy farming a mass movement towards a major push for diversification of agriculture.  He asked the association to send him a detailed report based upon their suggestions to further improve the dairy farming in a big way.  He also directed the Financial Commissioner Animal Husbandry to thoroughly examine the proposal put forth by the association for seeking subsidy on the Total Mix Ration (TMR) machines and other related equipments.    He also assured the members of the association for setting up a chain of milk booths and dairy farming centers across the state especially in and around Ludhiana to boost the dairy prospects.  He also asked the progressive dairy farmers to motivate the other farmers to go for dairy farming because it was the only solution to enhance their profitability in the wake of low margins of return on their agriculture produce. 
            Mr. Badal reiterated his firm commitment that the state government would make all out efforts to develop dairy farming by providing basic facilities and incentives.  He also emphasized the need to develop best breed of cows and buffalos to enhance the production of milk in terms of quality and quantity.   He asked the progressive farmers to tie up with GADVASU to develop better breed of milch cattle to enhance milk production. 
            On the occasion, the Israeli experts on dairy farming had an interactive session with the dairy farmers replying to their queries for enhancing milk yield, quality of fodder and cattle feed etc. 
Later talking to the media persons on the sidelines of the function, the Chief Minister categorically said that it was the sweet will of the Centre to deploy para-military forces during the Dasuya by-election as demanded by the state Congress leadership.  Mr. Badal said that it was obligatory on the part of the state government to ensure free and fair poll in the state and they were committed to conduct this by-poll peacefully being staunch believer of the democratic values.  He however, said that it was not the first time that the Congress had rake up this issue as they made lot of hue and cry over the last assembly elections and even recently concluded civic elections expressing their apprehension of law and order situation.   
Replying to a query on the disclosure made by the former Union Minister and Governor Punjab Mr. Arjun Singh in his book about the purported move of the former Chief Minister Haryana Mr. Bhajan Lal for scuttling the transfer of Chandigarh to Punjab, Mr. Badal quipped it was not strange for us because the Centre had always meted out a step motherly treatment to Punjab which was intolerable adding he said Centre was solely responsible for denying transfer of Chandigarh to the state as per the Rajiv- Longowal Accord.  Even the Centre also back tracked from its promise to adjudicate the contentious issues like transfer of Punjabi speaking areas to Punjab and legitimate sharing of river waters. Mr. Badal said: “Had Centre sincere to core it should have transferred Chandigarh to Punjab forthwith, being at the helm of affairs because the verdict of judge always final”.  He entirely blamed the Centre for this un-ending saga of injustice in one way or another by excluding Punjab from the centrally sponsored schemes due to its stringent parameters thereby punishing the state and its people for its development. 
            Prominent amongst others who were present on the occasion included Financial Commissioner Animal Husbandry Mr. Jagpal Singh Sandhu, Director Dairy Development Mr. Inderjit Singh, Director Animal Husbandry Dr. HS Sandha, Deputy Commissioner Mohali Mr. Varun Roojam and SSP Mr. Gurpreet Singh Bhullar. 
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CM FOR PERIODIC REVIEW OF PERFORMANCE OF IAS, PCS, CLASS
A&B OFFICERS IN VIEW OF GoI’s GUIDELINES

DEAD WOOD MUST BE DEALT WITH TO TONE UP ADMINISTRATIVE MACHINERY

CHANDIGARH JULY 05:
            
In a bid to bring improvement and enhance efficiency in the functioning of the government offices, the Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today asked the Chief Secretary to immediately constitute a committee under his chairmanship to review the performance of the government officers in accordance with the Govt. of India’s guidelines on periodic review of performance, efficiency and conduct of All India Service Officers after 15, 20, 25 years service. 

            Disclosing this here today a spokesperson of the CMO said that Mr. Badal asked the Chief Secretary to submit a quarterly report in this regard to him so that inefficient, irresponsible and undesirable officers should not continue to burden the administration.  It was observed that efficient, agile and responsive administrative machinery was the need of the hour.  In this context the review of functioning of government officers was essential so that the dead wood in the administration was dealt with in time to keep the administrative machinery at its best all the times. 
Mr. Badal also asked the Chief Secretary to put in place similar mechanism for PCS and all Class A&B officers in the service of state government.  The relevant service rules may also be considered for amendment, if need be.  The Chief Minister desired strict compliance in this behalf, the spokesperson added. 
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CM APPROVES PILOT PROJECT OF CII-GURUKUL TO BE SET UP IN NAWANSHAHAR

BADAL ASKS DEPARTMENT TO ACCESS THE PERFORMANCE OF STATE ITIs ON THE BASIS OF THEIR PLACEMENTS

CHANDIRAGH, JULY 5
            Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today gave in principle approval to Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) for setting up of Gurukul, as a skill training pilot project, in district Nawanshahar to train poor unemployed educated or dropouts from rural schools as well as ensuring their proper placement in the local industry. 
            A decision to this effect was taken by Mr. Badal during a meeting with the representatives of CII and top brass of the state government.
            Taking part in deliberations, Mr. Badal emphasized the need to train our unemployed rural youth through special skill development centers with focus of their cent percent placement in the Industrial sector.
The Chief Minister assured the CII of fulsome support and cooperation of the state government to establish this new venture and asked the Deputy Commissioner Nawanshahar to identify a suitable site or some vacant building to initiate CII-Gurukul project. Mr. Badal also asked the CII to finalize their plan at the earliest and assured them for the extension of this scheme as a joint venture between state and CII in other districts after its success in Nawanshahar.
            Explaining the concept and scope of Gurukulus, the CII team members Mr. Shahnawaz Ali and Mrs. Kamna Raj Aggarwalla jointly informed the Chief Minister that as many as 300 rural youth would be trained in a year in this Gurukul through imparting 30 to 45 days intensive semi-skilled certified training which would be subsequently extended to six months as an advanced training course after ensuring their placements in the Industry and on the need based demand of their employer.
Mr. Shahnawaz Ali further informed that CII had already contacted the Industry in the state to workout its requirement of skilled workers in different trades and designed training courses to cater the local industry in a productive manner.  Besides imparting skill training, these Gurukuls would also inculcate discipline, social & patriotic values amongst the trainees. He also informed that Industrial sector had given tremendous response to these Gurukuls, at present functional as joint ventures between State Governments and CII in the states like Tamilnadu, Rajasthan, Maharashtra and Jharkhand.
            Expressing concern over the lack of proper linkage between demand of Industrial sector and supply of skilled force by technical institutions in the state, Mr. Badal asked the Punjab Technical Education Department to keep continues liaison with Industry to ensure maximum placements of ITI diploma holders. He further asked the department to evolve a system for accessing the performance of a particular government ITI on the basis of placements of its students.
            Prominent amongst those who attended the meeting included Chief Secretary Mr. Rakesh Singh, Principal Secretary Industry Mr. AR Talwar, Principal Secretary Technical Education Mr. SS Channy, Principal Secretary Rural Development Mr. Mandeep Singh Sandhu, Special Principal Secretaries to the Chief Minister Mr. KJS Cheema and Mr. Gurkirat Kirpal Singh, Director Technical Education Mr. B Purushartha, Deputy Commissioner Nawanshahar Mrs. Tanu Kashyap and CII Head Punjab State Mr. Sumanpreet Singh.
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FOCAL POINTS IN PUNJAB TO DON NEW LOOK
•       TENDORS WORTH RS.8 CRORE FOR STREET LIGHTING AND ROADS FLOATED
•       ADVISORY COMMITTEES BE CONSTITUTED TO REDRESS THE PROBLEMS OF INDUSTRIALISTS

CHANDIGARH, JULY 5 :

The Punjab Small Industries and Export Corporation Limited (PSIEC) has
launched a massive campaign for over all development of focal points
in state. Under this initiative the infrastructure in the focal points
would be upgraded to the highest standards, special incentives would
be given to the small scale industry, thus creating new opportunities
for providing employment to the youth.
It was disclosed by Mr. Sukhminderpal Singh Grewal, Deputy Chairman
PSIEC in a meeting with the delegation of industrialists of Mandi
Gobindgarh, who came to meet him in the leadership of Mr. Mukand
Agrawal.
Mr. Grewal said that tenders worth Rs.8 crore to upgrade the
infrastructure of focal point of Mandi Gobindgarh. He said that Rs.1
crore would be spent on putting up of electricity poles of 350 IG in
the focal point and for installing energy savings lights, while Rs.7
crore would be incurred on civil works, which included replacement of
old tube wells, cleansing of sewerage and construction of new roads.
He said that the Punjab Government has already accorded approval for
the setting up a sewerage treatment plant in the focal point.
No. PR-12/433

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VIOLATION OF BUILDING BYLAWS NOT BE TOLERATED: CHUNNI LAL BHAGAT
CHANDIGARH, JULY 5:
        The Punjab Government is committed to develop new towns and building strictly adhering to eco-friendly standards and building bylaws. Anyone found guilty of violating building bylaws, stern action would be taken against him. Town planners would be personally responsible to ensure that the building bylaws are strictly adhering to during the construction of new buildings.
These instructions were issued by Mr. Chunni Lal Bhagat, Minister for Local Bodies, while presiding over a meeting with the senior officials of the department to review the town planning schemes.
Mr. Bhagat said that it would be the responsibility of the town planners to ensure that the building bylaws were being strictly adhering to during the construction of new buildings in their jurisdiction.
        Minister said that it had been noticed that despite the approval of construction plan most of contractors violate building bylaws. Mr. Bhagat ordered the town planners to be vigilant and keep on checking the buildings during construction. He said that if anybody found guilty of violating the building bylaws, legal action would be taken. Mr. Bhagat also instructed the officials to ensure safety parameters and adequate parking facilities during the construction of new buildings. Minister said that in case of any violation of building bylaws the owner and town planner concerned would be held responsible. He exhorted the senior officers of the department to conduct surprise raids. This meeting was convened to review the town planning schemes.
        Prominent among other, who were present included Mr. Suresh Kumar, Principal Secretary, Local Bodies, Mr. A.K. Sinha, Director and Mr. M.S. Aujla, Director, Town Planning.
No PR-12/428
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PUNJAB GOVERNMENT INCREASES RATE OF INTEREST ON GROUP INSURANCE SCHEME TO 8.6 PER CENT

CHANDIGARH, JULY 5:
The Punjab Government has increased the rate of interest on Group Insurance Scheme (GIS) of government employees of the state to 8.6 per cent quarterly for the year 2012.
Finance and Planning Minister, Mr. Parminder Singh Dhindsa today said that all the Departmental Heads, Commissioners of Divisions, Deputy Commissioners, Sub Divisional Officer and Registrar, Punjab and Haryana High Court have been asked to do the needful in this regard. Mr. Dhindsa said that the new rate of interest would be applicable from 1st December, 2011. He said that the new interest rate tables have been sent to the departments for further action. Mr. Dhindsa instructed the officers to bring these tables into the notice of department heads and other officers dealing with salaries distribution.
Mr. Dhindsa said that for those employees, who had given option from 1st January, 1990 to remain out of higher rate, the table has been prepared keeping in view Rs.10 contribution of employee out of which 70 per cent had gone into savings and 30 per cent to cover the risk.
The Minister said that the tables have been circulated for the benefit of all employees as a move to bring transparency in the working of Finance Department.

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Punjab invites applications for post Matric scholarship for minority students

CHANDIGARH, July 15 : 
With a view to enable the meritorious students belonging to economically weaker section of minority communities to pursing higher education from class XI to Ph.D and technically/vocational courses, the  Punjab govt. has invited applications for post metric scholarship for the academic session 2012-13.
Disclosing this here today a spokesman of Punjab Government said that the scholarship under the scheme of Government of India,  would be provided to those students who have not less than 50% marks in the previous final examination and the annual income of their parents should not exceeded Rs. 2 lac. Scholarship will not be given to more than two students in a family. The scholarship would be awarded for studies in India only, spokesman added.
The spokesman further said that eligible applicants may send their application on prescribed format for grant of scholarship to the Directorate of Welfare of SCs and BCs, Punjab through the head of school/collage/institute of the student latest by 30-09-2012. 

VIGILANCE BUREAU PUNJAB
SPECIAL DRIVE AGAINST POs WANTED IN VIGILANCE CASES

Chandigarh July 5-With a view to take strict measures against the Proclaimed Offenders (POs), a special drive was launched by the State Vigilance Bureau to apprehend the absconders in various vigilance cases. Total 71 POs were absconding in various cases registered by Bureau in the state and the Bureau would publish photographs of the remaining absconding POs in the newspapers.
Disclosing this here today Sh. Suresh Arora DGP-cum-Chief Director Vigilance Bureau Punjab said that as a result of special drive, the Bureau has succeeded in arresting 8 POs during the month of June. "Moreover, while reviewing pending cases, it was also decided to forward the cases of 7 POs to the respective courts for their discharge. One PO has been granted bail by the Punjab & Haryana High Court, he added.
Giving details he said that 19 POs have been identified to have gone abroad to different countries. "Their Lookout Circulars have been got issued at the International Airports so that they could be arrested at the entry points" he added.
Mr. Arora further said that in order to send a strong message to absconding POs, the properties in case of 7 POs have been attached invoking legal provisions and efforts were being made to identify and attach the properties of remaining POs.
The vigilance chief said that the actual status regarding arrests of remaining 55 POs would be reviewed on fortnightly basis in future. "The persons, who shall provide any information about any PO, which will lead to his arrest, shall be suitably rewarded and their identity will be kept secret", he promised.
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ELECTION COMMISSION OF INDIA
PRESS NOTE
CHANDIGARH, July 5
The Election Commission of India today notified the period between 8.00 AM and 5.30 PM on 11-07-2012  (Wednesday) as the period during which conducting any exit poll or disseminating in any manner whatsoever and result of any exit poll in connection with the Dasuya assembly constituency by poll would be prohibited.
A Spokesperson of the ECI further clarified that displaying any election matter including results of any opinion poll or any other poll survey in any electronic media would also be prohibited during the period of 48 hours ending with the hours fixed for conclusion of poll regarding the Dasuya by poll .
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ALL SET TO DEVELOP LALRU AS MOST PREFERRED INDUSTRIAL HUB-JOSHI

• PUNJAB TO ADOPT GUJARAT MODEL FOR SPINNING INDUSTRY

CHANDIGARH, JULY 5: The Punjab Government has asked all departments to launch a coordinated action plan to develop Lalru in SAS Nagar District as most preferred Industrial hub in the country. 
Industry & Commerce, Technical Education & Industrial Training, Minister of Punjab  Mr. Anil Joshi today said that Punjab Government has created a investor friendly environment in the state by constructing world class infrastructure, assuring 24 hours power supply to upcoming industry besides providing many kind of incentives and concessions to investors for to set up their units in Punjab. The Minister said that he has issued necessary direction to concerned departments to identify the suitable big chunk of land for that purpose. He assured that besides Power and Water connections Sewerage facilities would also be provided by the concerned departments within one month. Besides that the Minister also assured that with an aim to facilitate the investors, change of land use (CLU) would be made easy. He said that electricity duty waiver to mega textile projects in Barnala District has been under examination.
The Minister said that the Punjab Government was also contemplating in adopting Gujarat model for inclusion of Spinning industry in the green belt.

Expressing confidence Mr. Joshi said that Punjab was all set for Industrial boom in view of interests shown by various entrepreneurs to set up their industry in Punjab.

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BHANDARI ASKS MILKFED TO FOCUS ON HERALDING WHITE REVOLUTION IN PUNJAB
REVIEWS FUNCTIONING OF MILKFED
CHANDIGARH, JULY 4
In a bid to bring white revolution in the state, Chief Parliamentary Secretary Co-operation Mr. KD Bhandari asked the top brass of the MILKFED to herald a white revolution in the state.
        In his maiden meeting to review the functioning of the MILKFED, Mr. Bhandari emphasized the need for a paradigm shift from traditional agriculture to dairy farming with the twin objective of improving the economic lot of the farmers besides producing high quality milk which would be further processed at the Milk Plants of MILKFED across the state to ensure its high profitability. He said scientific handling and processing of milk would certainly yield high profits and thus underscored the need to prepare a comprehensive plan for the modernization of plants to enhance their capacity. He said that concerted efforts should be made to make the existing milk plants in the co-operative sector economically viable and financially sustainable. Mr. Bhandari further said that these Milk Plants should be suitably upgraded by replacing the obsolete machinery and Infra structure with the latest one for enabling them to successfully compete with leading Milk processing units in the private sector.  Highly appreciating the initiative taken by the Punjab Chief Minister  Mr. Parkash Singh Badal for strict implementation the National Dairy Plan (NDP), Mr. Bhandari hoped if implemented in the right earnest, it would benefit the farmers especially small and marginal because diversification of agriculture was the need of the hour and dairy farming was the most remunerative alternative to the conventional agriculture in term of wheat-paddy rotation due to low margin of profit. He also asked MILKFED to prepare a time bound plan to diversify its products range by developing new products besides chalking out a complete marketing strategy for its sale. Mr. Bhandari also asked the top management of the MILKFED to find ways and means to boost the export potential of milk products of marketed by MILKFED.
            Taking part in the deliberations, MD of the MILKFED Mr. Balwinder Singh Sidhu apprised Mr. Bhandari that MILKFED had a network of 7370 villge level milk socities with 3.91 milk producers. He said MILKFED had fixed a target of 12 lac litre milk to be purchased daily during 2012-13.
Prominent amongst others who were present in the meeting included Financial Commissioner Mr. Viswajit Khanna and MD MILKFED Mr. Balwinder Singh Sidhu besides senior functionaries of the MILKFED.
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JOSHI ASKS ITIS AND POLYTECHNICS TO START COURSES ACCORDING TO THE REQUIREMENT OF INDUSTRY
·        TOLD TO FOCUS ON PRACTICAL TRAINING OF STUDENTS
·        ASKED TO UPGRADE INFRASTRUCTURE IN THE COLLEGES

Chandigarh, July 4: The Punjab Technical Education & Industries Minister Mr. Anil Joshi today asked ITIs and polytechnics to rework their curriculum to train the students according to the changing requirements of industry.
Addressing the Principals of government Polytechnics and ITIs here today Mr. Joshi said that Punjab was focusing to attract massive investment in the industrial sector and it was imperative for the engineering colleges, polytechnics and ITIs to upgrade their curriculum and infrastructure in the laboratories to provide human resource back up for changing needs of Industrial sector.
Calling upon Principals to work in tandem with industry of their region, Mr. Joshi said that we have to ensure employability and placement of students being trained in the upcoming industry rather than making our institutes as degree churning institutes. He said that our ITIs and polytechnics were continuing with the stale trades and students being trained in these trades were not getting jobs in the industry.
Asking the institutes to focus on practical training of the students Mr. Joshi said that it was imperative for the institutes to give maximum exposure to practical training and ITIs and polytechnics must upgrade their infrastructure in the laboratories according to the new inventions in the industry.
Stressing upon the need for objective and strict examination pattern Mr. Joshi said that he has constituted flying squads to check the menace of copying in the exams and invigilators and staff colluding with the students in this menace would be strictly dealt with.
Prominent amongst those present in the meeting included Mr. S.S. Channi, Principal Secretary Technical Education and Mr. B.Purshartha, Director Technical Education.

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ALL PUNJAB OFFICERS ASKED TO SUBMIT PROPERTY RETURN BY JULY 31

Chandigarh, July 4: The Punjab Government has directed all the Group A&B officers/officials to submit their Property returns positively by July 31, 2012.
Disclosing this here today a spokesman of Punjab government said that it was decided to make compulsory the filing of property returns by Group A&B employees under Rule 18 of Punjab State Employees Conduct Rules 1966. The Spokesman said that these property returns were due from 1st April, 2012 and were to be submitted by 31st May, 2012. He further said that it was noticed that some officers/officials have not yet submit these returns so they were asked to file these at the earliest.
Similarly, all Special Secretaries to Ministers, Secretaries to Ministers, Personal Secretaries and Personal Assistants and Senior Scale Stenographers of Punjab Civil Secretariat have been directed to file their property returns to Secretariat’s Establishment-2 Branch by July 31, 2012.
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COMMISSION RECOMMENDS INCLUSION OF 41 MORE SERVICES UNDER RIGHT TO SERVICE ACT
·        NUMBER OF SERVICES UNDER ACT WOULD RISE TO 110
Chandigarh, July 4: The Punjab Right to Service Commission has recommended notification of addition of 41 more services in the preview of Right to Service Act 2011.
In its meeting held here under the Chairmanship of Mr. SC Agrawal, Chief Commissioner, it was recommended to the Government to notify 41 more citizen centric services under section 3 of the Punjab Right to Service Act, 2011. According to Mr. S.C. Agarwal originally 67 services were notified by the Government vide notification dated 28.07.2011 under path breaking Right to Service Act. He said that while implementing the recommendations of the commission the government had made certain medications in the previous notification and the services increased to 69 as notified vide notification dated 30.05.2012.
 Mr. Agrawal while elaborating the recommendations stated that the Commission after having detailed discussions with various departments of the Punjab Government has made these recommendations which if implemented the number of services will be increased to 110 and this would go a long way in mitigating the problems of the public at large. Apart from this the commission has also recommended amendment in 3 already notified services.
                        He said that as per data available with the commission, from the day of inception, 15,07,319 citizens have got the various services under the Act.  Punjab Right to Service Commission has received only 4 Revision petitions till date. The Commission while exercising powers to take suo-moto action has sent 12 cases to the 2nd appellate authorities for decision, 170/11 appeals have been filed before various 1st and 2nd appellate authorities respectively in the State of Punjab.
                        Mr. Agarwal said that the Commission has already standardized the formats for filing RTS appeals and loaded on the website of the commission for the convenience of the public. Formats for obtaining all the notified services have also been standardized and are being loaded on the website of the respective departments or on the website of the commission for obtaining these services. The Commission is continuously monitoring the implementation of the provisions of the Act by inspecting field offices apart from creating awareness amongst the general public.
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All Punjab Schools closed upto  8 th July-
Staff required to attend the Schools
Chandigarh, July 04:
            Thr Punjab Government today ordered the closure of all middle, high and higher secondary schools in the state up to July 8 for students keeping in view the extreme heat wave in state due to delayed Monsoon.
            Education Minister Mr. Sikander Singh Maluka today clarified that teachers and administrative staff would however attend the schools regularly to clear the pending academic and administrative work.  

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CM PAYS GLORIOUS TRIBUTES PAID TO BABA MAHARAJ SINGH ON
HIS MARTYRDOM DAY

BADAL ANNOUNCES ANALYSIS OF WATER SAMPLE OF ALL VILLAGES TO CHECK QUALITY OF DRINKING WATER

UCHHI RABBO (LUDHIANA) JULY 04:
            In a bid to check the quality of drinking water, the Punjab government has decided to take sample of water from all the villages for analysis within next three months and appropriate steps would be taken to ensure supply of safe drinking water after the comprehensive report based on the analysis. 
This was disclosed here today Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal while interacting to the media persons during the martyrdom day of first martyr of the national freedom struggle Baba Maharaj Singh at a state level function.  He said that the state government was committed to provide the best quality potable water because the inferior water resulted in several fatal diseases for which the government has taken a cautious decision to undertake the quality analysis of the drinking water through taking out its samples from the villages across the state. 
The Chief Minister further said that the underground water in most of the parts of the state was saline for which even the team of Planning Commission led by Mr. Mihir Shah also expressed their concern in this regard.  The team observed if the saline water moved in others parts of the state it could pose an acute problem for the state.   The team also apprehended that the salinity content in the underground water could also severally jeopardize the chances of bumper food production thereby economically affecting the peasantry enormously.
On the issue of power shortage in the state, Mr. Badal said that the delayed monsoons had further aggravated this situation in the state even then the state government was making elaborate arrangements to ensure uninterrupted power supply in the state.   He said that the civil works in all the ongoing thermal power plants was in full swing and there would no shortage of power within next two years.  He said the state government was purchasing 350 MW power from Central pool this year also like previous years.
Paying glorious tributes to the first martyr of the national freedom struggle Baba Maharaj Singh, the Chief Minister said that his unprecedented and supreme sacrifice would ever remain a source of inspiration for inculcating the spirit of patriotism and self sacrifices amongst our youth.  He said Baba Maharaj Singh’s spirit of nationalism unnerved the regime of British and thus paved a way to free our motherland from the yoke of British imperialism.  He said that the state government would soon build a state-of-the-art Jang-e-Azadi memorial at Kartarpur over an area of 25 acre dedicated to the unparalleled sacrifices made by our several valiant warriors and patriots including Baba Maharaj Singh in the national freedom struggle.   He said that this memorial would also be a beacon for our future generations to apprise them with our rich legacy of patriotism.  He announced a life sized statue of Baba Maharaj Singh to be installed at some appropriate site in Ludhiana city and name the local government school at village Uchhi Rabo after Baba Maharaj Singh. 
On the occasion, the Chief Minister called upon the panchayats to plant saplings of good species trees on the vacant places and nurture them like their own child so that our future generations could lead a happy life in a clean and green environment.  He said no doubt the state government had already launched a vigorous campaign for massive plantation drive but such campaigns could only be successful with the huge participation of the people.  Showing concern over the problem of unemployment, Mr. Badal asked the youth to go for vocational and skill development training programs so that they could stand on their feet.  He asked the young ones to start their self employment ventures as they had tremendous potential and zeal to learn and work in the prime of their youth. 
Speaking on the occasion, Speaker of the Punjab Vidhan Sabha Mr. Charanjit Singh Atwal said that a comprehensive report relating to the problems of this village and adjoining areas be prepared on the priority so that these could be addressed on the priority  
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CHANDIGARH, JULY 4
        The Election Commission of India has directed that EVMs would be used for Dasuya Assembly Constituencies By poll in Punjab.
A spokesman of CEO Punjab said that all elect orals shall have to produce their EPIC for establishing their identity before casting their votes. Electors who do not have EPIC shall have to produce the ‘Authenticated Photo Voter Slip’ issued by the election machinery for identification in the polling stations.
        He said that those electors whose photographs is either not available in the Authenticated photo voter slip or the photo in the EPIC/Authenticated Photo Voter Slip does not match; they shall have to produce any of the following photo documents for establishing their identity.
        He said that these alternative documents includes Passport, Driving
License, Income Tax Identity (PAN) Card, Service Identity Cards having
photograph, issued to its employees by State/Central Government,
Public Sector Undertakings, Local Bodies     or Public Limited
Companies, passbook with Photograph issued by Public Sector Banks/Post
Office and Kisan Passbook (Accounts opened on or before
31-05-2012),SC/ST/OBC certificate issued by competent authority with
photograph  issued on or 31-05-2012, Pension Documents such as
ex-servicemen’s Pension Book/Pension Payment Order, ex-servicemen’s
Widow/Dependent Certificates, Old Age Pension  Order,  Widow   Pension
 Order with  photograph (issued on or before  31-05-2012),
Freedom Fighter Identity Card with photograph.Arms Licenses with
photograph, issued on or before 31-05-2012,Certificate of Physical
Handicap with photograph issued by the Competent  Authority on or
before 31-05-2012,Health Insurance Scheme Smart Card with photograph
(Ministry of Labour’s  Scheme), issued up to  31-05-2012,Property
Document with Photograph such as pattas, Registered Deeds, etc.Job
Cards with photograph under the National Rural Employment Guarantee
Scheme issued on or before 31-05-2012,Authenticated ‘Photo Voter Slip’
issued by Election Machinery.
He  said that overseas electors who are registered in the electoral
rolls under Section 20A of the Representation of the People Act, 1950
based on the particulars in their passport, shall be identified on the
basis of their original passport only (and no other identity document)
in the polling station.
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STATE GOVERNMENT DUTY BOUND FOR ENSURING FREE AND FAIR BY-POLL AT DASUYA- CM
BADAL TO RAISE THE ISSUE OF LEVYING OF SERVICE TAX ON FOREIGN REMITTANCE BY NRIs WITH THE UNION GOVERNMENT

CM INAUGURATES SECOND PHASE OF “AJIT HARYAAVAL LEHAR’

JALANDHAR JULY 4:
            Punjab Chief Minister Mr Parkash Singh Badal today said that the state government was committed for ensuring free and fair poll during the upcoming by-election of the Dasuya Assembly segment to be held on July 11.
            Talking to the media persons after presiding over the “Ajit Haryaaval Lehar’ function organized by the Ajit Group of newspapers here today, the Chief Minister said that the state Congress leadership was unnecessarily making a hue and cry over the interference of state government in the by-election whereas there was no truth in it as it was the bounden duty of the Punjab government to ensure that the elections are carried out in a peaceful and free manner. Replying a query regarding the demand of Punjab Congress President Captain Amarinder Singh to deploy Para military forces in Dasuya, he said that they had no objection regarding the demand raised by the state Congress leaders, however he said that was hardly any need for it. Mr Badal said that the state Congress leadership was habitual of seeking Para military forces for elections for the sake of getting publicity. He reminded the Congress leadership that they were badly trounced by the people of Punjab in assembly elections held early this year even when Para military forces were deployed here just because SAD-BJP government had ensured free and fair poll.
            Condemning the recent proposal of the Union Government to impose tax on the funds or help sent by the NRIs in the state, the Chief Minister said that it was an anti-people decision which would adversely impact the development of the state. Mr Badal said that he would soon raise the matter with the Union government for scraping this decision.
            When asked about the allegations of Congress leaders that he had deliberately prompted Congress legislature Mr Mohammed Sadique to sing in state assembly, the Chief Minister said the Congress leaders were needlessly raking up this issue and criticizing him rather they should have prevented Mr. Sadique from singing in the august house.
            Earlier addressing the massive gathering at the venue of the function, the Chief Minister said that the pollution was the biggest challenge faced by the people of the state in the recent times adding that the state government was committed for wiping out the air and water pollution from the state. He said that in order to reduce the air pollution in the state the government had already joined hands with the Punjab Agriculture University and Forest Reserves of India (FRI) to ensure that 5 crore saplings are panted every year in the state. Regarding the allocation of funds for ambitious “Greening Punjab Campaign” recently started by the Punjab Government, the Chief Minister said that “Sky was limit” for generating funds for this pious cause. Mr Badal reiterated that there was no shortage of funds for this purpose adding that the state government would leave no stone unturned to make Punjab clean, green and pollution free.
            The Chief Minister also said that in order to ensure zero discharge of sludge water in the rivers of the state the state Government would ensure that every city of Punjab is provided facility of water supply and sewerage along with the Sewerage Treatment Plants (STP) in coming two years so that the sewage water could be properly treated. He said that apart from it the state government was also making endeavors to ensure that the treated sewage water or the industrial waste do not goes into the rivers and is used for irrigational or domestic purposes both in villages and towns respectively. Mr Badal said that the state government was mulling a large number of techniques which were being used for the same purpose across the globe and it would be finalized after due deliberations.
In the same manner the Chief Minister also said that as per the commitment of state government to provide clean and potable drinking water to the residents of the state they have urged the Union Government to provide them with new techniques for purifying the water supplied through the tube wells or through canal based schemes because a heavy concentration of Uranium, arsenic and other heavy metals have been traced in the water. Exhorting the people to support the campaign for making the state green and clean, the Chief Minister said that on its part the government was already making efforts on war footing but the active co-operation of the people is required to make this movement a public movement.
Listing the other priorities of the state government he said that the SAD-BJP government has already made efforts to revitalize the education system of the state, the results of which were visible on fore. Mr Badal further said that now special thrust was being laid by them on providing technical education to the unemployed youth of the state so that they could be made capable of earning their livelihood. The Chief Minister said due to the concerted efforts made by the state government in providing technical education to the youngsters, in the coming months more than 5 lakh youth across the state would be able generating their livelihood.  Likewise he said that the state government would soon be opening the recruitment of Para medical staff and technicians in the departments of the state government to provide job opportunities to the youngsters.
The Chief Minister lauded the role played by the Managing Editor of the Ajit Newspaper Group Dr Barjinder Singh Hamdard in creating awareness regarding ‘Tree plantation’ amongst the people by initiating the “Ajit Haryaaval Lehar” about an year ago. He said that under leadership of Dr Hamdard the Ajit group which had planted 5 lakh trees last year have now set a target of planting 10 lakh trees, which was double than the number of trees planted by them last year. Assuring all possible help to the campaign by the state, the Chief Minister said that he had already passed on the necessary directions to the officers for the same purpose.     
Welcoming the Chief Minister at the function, the Managing Editor of Ajit Group of Newspapers Dr Barjinder Singh Hamdard appreciated the role played by SAD-BJP alliance government under the stewardship of Chief Minister Mr Parkash Singh Badal in initiating “Greening Punjab Campaign” which would go a long way in generating awareness amongst the people about the importance of trees. Expressing gratitude to Mr Badal for encouraging them with constant help and support, Dr Hamdard said that the initiatives taken by the Punjab Government would provide much needed relief to the state from the menace of pollution. Dr Hamdard vowed that from now onwards under “Ajit Haryaaval Lehar” the Ajit Group of Newspapers would involve all the sections of society for making the movement to plant more trees in the state a mass movement.
Prominent amongst those present on the occasion included Financial Commissioner Forests Mr DS Bains, Political Advisor to the Chief Minister Mr Kamal Sharma besides several other dignitaries. 

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BADAL CONSTITUTES COMMITTEE TO FINALIZE THE PLAN FOR SKILL DEVELOPMENT COURSES IN HEALTH SECTOR

CHANDIGARH, JULY 3:

Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today approved to constitute a committee headed by eminent Dr. K.K. Talwar to finalize the new health skill development training courses.

A decision to this effect was taken by Mr. Badal during a meeting with the renowned doctors from various health institutes and the senior officers of the Health and Medical Education & Research Departments.
The Chief Minister directed the Health Department to prepare a comprehensive plan under the guidance of the committee for initiating new skill development courses in health sector to provide a gainful employment to the unemployed youth of the state, besides facilitating the easy availability of skilled force for the health care sectors, public as well as private. Mr. Badal said that there was a vast scope of skilled health workers today and government was committed to explore all possible areas with productive employment generation potential in the larger interest of our youth.
On the occasion all the experts expressed their view point. Responding to various proposals, Principal Secretary Health Mrs. Vini Mahajan assured to incorporate all their vital suggestions in the plan to be placed before the committee for final approval.
Prominent amongst those who attended the meeting included Dr. KK Talwar, Dr. KS Chugh, Dr. Ajmer Singh, Dr. Baldev Singh Aulakh, Dr. RS Pawar, Dr. GS Gill, Principal Secretary to Chief Minister Mr. SK Sandhu, Special Principal Secretary to Chief Minister Mr. KJS Cheema, Principal Secretary Health and Family Welfare Mrs Vini Mahan, Secretary Medical Education and Research Mrs. Anjali Bhawra, Directore Health Dr. JP Singh and Director Medical Education & Research Dr. AS Thind, besides many other doctors from private sector  and officers of the state government.
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MAJITHIA TERMS SERVICE TAX ON REMITTANCE BY EMIGRANTS AS RETROGRADE STEP

• UPA’s DECISION DESIGNED TO HIT PUNJAB AND GUJARAT MAXIMUM
•  SERVICE TAX TO HIT LEGAL REMITTANCE AND TO PROMOTE HAWALA TRANSACTIONS

Amritsar, July 3, 2012

Punjab Revenue, Information and Public Relations and NRI Affairs Minister Mr. Bikram Singh Majithia today described the latest decision of Congress led UPA Government to include foreign remittance to India by NRIs in the ambit of 12.36 % service tax as a retrograde step as it would discourage them to remit money through legal channels, giving a fillip to the Hawala trade.
         
          In a statement issued here today, the Punjab NRIs Affairs Minister said that Congress led UPA government in frustration to free itself from policy paralysis has moved the clock of Economic Reforms in reverse by taking those decisions, which would put a stop on inflow of Foreign Direct Investment in the economic growth of the country. He said that this unique decision was designed by the Congress led UPA Government to target Punjab and Gujarat Governments as these two states were getting maximum remittances from its citizens working in various countries. He said that over 80 lakh Punjabi NRIs were remitting on average Rs. 50 crore daily to Punjab that was being spent by their relatives in the development of the state and this dubious move of the Union Government would adversely affect the economic growth of Punjab.  He said that on the one hand we had been luring NRIs to invest in country and become part of India’s economic growth, the service tax on remittances by them to their parent country would discourage them to help country with their remittances. 
Mr. Majithia said that the government must understand that the NRIs are always bearing the heavy loss of having been uprooted from homes and they were in the foreign countries to earn livelihood.  He said that he along with Chief Minister would call on Prime Minister and Union Finance Minister to immediately withdraw this retrograde law that would adversely affect the economic growth of not only states but have a serious impact on foreign currency reserves of the country.

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Congress seeks central forces for Dasuya byepoll

CHANDIGARH, July 3: Punjab Congress has sought deployment of central security forces for the Dasuya bye-election scheduled to be held on July 11. The party said, there was every apprehension of the ruling Akali-BJP alliance misusing power to facilitate the favourable outcome of the election.

Punjab Pradesh Congress Committee President Capt Amarinder Singh in a letter to the Chief Election Commissioner of India has said that the recent experience of the Municipal and other local bodies’ elections has raised genuine apprehensions among the Congress workers that same tactics of violence and intimidation might be used during Dasuya bye-election also.

He said, in order to prevent and preempt any such thing, the Election Commission of India must deploy only the central forces during the election on each and every booth. He said, there was possibility of the state government deputing its own favourite police and other officials who will work for it.

The PCC President pointed out, during the Municipal elections the ruling alliance had specially deputed four Senior Superintendents of Police to take control of elections in Patiala only and there is no guarantee that they may not repeat the same in Dasuya also.

Capt Amarinder said, this becomes more important as the ruling alliance has realized that it was losing Dasuya bye-election and they might resort to violence and intimidation to win the election which must be prevented at all costs.

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BADAL DEMANDS SPECIAL CENTRAL ASSISTANCE
TO REDRESS WATER LOGGING IN PUNJAB

GOI TO PLAN FOR AQUIFER MAPPING OF THE COUNTRY TO IMPROVE QUALITY AS WELL AS QUANTITY OF GROUND WATER- MIHIR SHAH

Chandigarh, July 3
          Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today demanded special central assistance for tackling the grave issue of water logging in the state.
          Disclosing this today a spokesperson of the Chief Minister's Office said that Mr. Badal was presiding over a meeting with a high level team of Planning Commission of India led by its member Mr. Mihir Shah here at Chief Minister's Office.
          Taking part in the deliberations, Mr. Badal asked the Planning Commission team, which had visited waterlogged areas yesterday, to include a concrete and time bound action program for implementing effective water management system in Punjab to resolve issues like water logging, depletion of ground water level and elimination of solid harmful metals like uranium from water.
          The Chief Minister directed the Irrigation Department to submit a detailed project to the Planning Commission team regarding these issues so that team could further submit its recommendations for holistic planning in the 12th plan of the country. Expressing gratitude for their visit, Mr. Badal said that nobody could realize the gravity of the situation and the ground realities of particular issues being faced by the state, just while sitting in a Delhi based office. Every problem on this earth had a solution if tackled in a willful and serious manner, added Mr. Badal.
          On the occasion, Mr. Mihir Shah said that he and his team members were fully agreed to the alarming situation of water logging in the state and after their visit to the affected areas, they observed that the situation was worst than they were thinking. He assured that the team in its recommendations for the 12th five year plan of the country would recommend a comprehensive plan to sort out issues related to water management in the state on short, medium and long term basis. He said that in the next five year plan, efforts would be made for mapping the aquifer in the country to improve quality as well as quantity of ground water. He also informed that to tackle the saline water issue, Centre could provide financial assistance to the farmers for fishery.
          Mr. Shah also assured the Chief Minister that he would recommend the immediate release of Central assistance for the lining of Rajasthan and Sirhind canals to check the seepage.
          Speaking on the occasion Punjab State Farmers Commission Chairman Dr. G.S. Kalkat raised the issue of diversification in the state and demanded the to chalk out a plan to ensure proper marketing of the produce of less water consuming crops.  He also demanded that to promote dairy farming improved breed Buffalos must be introduced through a Central sponsored scheme.
          Prominent amongst others who were present in the meeting included Chief Secretary Mr. Rakesh Singh, Financial Commissioner Revenue Mr. NS Kang, Principal Secretary to Chief Minister Mr. SK Sandhu, Principal Secretary Irrigation Mr. KBS Sindhu, Principal Secretary Health Ms Vini Mahajan, Secretary Power Mr. Anirudh Tewari and Special Principal Secretary to the Chief Minister Mr. KJS Cheema besides the senior officers of other departments.
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         BADAL CONDOLES SAD DEMISE OF NOTED PUNJABI POET-PAINTER AJAIB CHITRAKAR

Chandigarh, July 3
Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today expressed profound grief and sorrow over the sad demise of the legendary Punjabi Poet-Painter Mr. Ajaib Chitrakar who passed away at Ludhiana on Monday after a prolonged illness. 

            In a condolence message, Mr. Badal described the celebrated Mr. Ajaib Chitrakar as a “rare blend of poetry and painting who made an outstanding contribution for the promotion of Punjabi art and culture through his pen and brush.” Mr. Badal recalled the literary services of Mr. Chitrakar as a beacon for over budding artistes who guided their destiny in the pursuit of poetry and painting. Chief Minister also lauded the fine qualities of head & heart in Chitrakar which made him an equally excellent poet in Urdu also. Mr. Chitrakar’s unique services for strengthing the ethos of Punjab, Punjabi and Punjabiat through the medium of poetry and painting would be ever remembered by one & all. Mr. Badal further said that In the death of the noted poet-painter Ajaib Chitrakar, a void had been created in literary and artistic circles which was difficult to be felt.

           Sharing his heart-felt sympathies with the members of the bereaved family, the Chief Minister prayed to the Almighty to give them courage and strength to bear this irreparable loss and grant peace to the departed soul.

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SUKHBIR AND MAJITHIA CONDOLE DEMISE OF EMINENT POET AND PAINTER
 AJAIB CHITRAKAR
Chandigarh, July 3:

Punjab Deputy Chief Minister Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal today expressed grief over the demise of eminent Punjabi poet Mr. Ajaib Chitrakar (88) , who passed away yesterday after brief illness.
In a condolence message, Mr. Badal said that Mr. Chitrakar made a significant contribution in the promotion of Punjabi literature and art through his poetry as well as with his paintings. He said that with his death a void has been created in the literary circles, which would never be filled.

Punjab Revenue and Public Relations Minister Mr. Bikram Singh Majithia said that a vital link between melody era of Sahir Ludhianvi has been snapped with the death of Mr. Chitrkar as he was a close associate of world famous poets Mr. Sahir Ludhianavi and Mr. Shiv Kumar Batalavi and came into limelight with Punjabi translation of Mr. Rabindra Nath Tagore’s Geetanjli. Besides this, he wrote eight books of poetry.
Expressing their heartfelt sympathies with members of the bereaved family, Mr. Badal and Mr. Majithia prayed to almighty to grant peace to the departed soul and strength to the family members to bear this irreparable loss.
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ELECTION COMMISSION OF INDIA

PRESS NOTE

CHANDIGARH, JULY 3:

          A Spokesperson of the Election Commission of India today clarified that as per section 8(4) of Representation of People Act, 1951, which reads: “Notwithstanding anything [in sub-section (2) or sub-section (3)] a disqualification under either sub-section shall not, in the case of a person who on the date of the conviction is a Member of Parliament or Legislature of a State, take effect until three months have elapsed from that date or if within that period an appeal or application for revision is brought in respect of the conviction or the sentence until that appeal or application is disposed off by the court”.
He clarified that as Bibi Jagir Kaur was a sitting MLA in the Punjab Vidhan Sabha on the date (30-03-2012) of her conviction by the competent court and she has appealed against the said conviction in the Punjab and Haryana High Court, which has not yet been disposed of by the said court, the saving clause of above mentioned section is attracted in her case and she is not disqualified yet and continues to be a Member of Legislative Assembly of Punjab. He said that she is thus entitled to vote in ensuing Presidential Election.
He further clarified that if she is confined in a prison because of her above conviction, she can vote only in person, at the polling station and not by postal ballot. He said that for this purpose she would have to seek and obtain permission on her own from the competent court. 

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BADAL CALLS UPON EDUCATIONAL AND INDUSTRIAL SECTORS TO JOIN STATES' MISSION TO REDRESS ISSUE OF UNEMPLOYMENT THROUGH SKILL DEVELOPMENT

CHANDIGARH JULY 2, 2012

Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today called upon various Universities running short term skill development courses and industrial sector especially hotel industry to come forward and join hands with the state government for the redressal of rapidly growing grave situation of unemployment not only in the state but throughout the country, posing a great threat to the entire nation. 
            The Chief Minister was presiding over a high level meeting of the officers of Ministry of Tourism GoI besides, state top brass and representatives of different educational institutions and industry here today at Punjab Bhawan. 
            Taking part in the brain storming session, Mr. Badal mentioned that the issue of unemployment was not only of  the state alone rather it had become a national problem, if not taken care of timely, would explode the economy as well the social structure of our country in coming times.  Taking a serious note of it, the Punjab government had already initiated concerted efforts with the target of maximum employment potential generation for unemployed youth in the state particularly for those who belong to poor rural families, said Mr. Badal.
 Reiterating the firm commitment of SAD-BJP government to impart vocational training to the unemployed youth, Mr. Badal said that the State Government had already set up Department of Employment Generation to give sharpened focus to check the problem of unemployment in a result oriented manner and had successfully launched Skill Development program in collaboration with renowned Bharti Wal Mart to impart training in retailing, logistics and supply chain management, L&T for  construction skills and Tata Motors for driving and Automotive skills for the youth of the state.
            Giving the details of the program to explore the opportunities and scopes of Skill Development in Hospitality, Tourism, TV and Film sectors in Punjab, Principal Secretary Tourism Mrs. Geetika Kalha proposed 17 new skill development courses, that would add skilled work force of 5775 for the year 2012-13 and that of 13000 for year 2013-14 in tourism sector. The new courses would include Therapy Beauty, Therapy Cosmetology Traditional Yoga, Trained for lighting, Photography and Museum Gallery Facilitator etc.
On the occasion, Special Secretary Ministry of Tourism GoI Mr. Sanjay Kothari made a detailed presentation of various courses approved by GoI under skill development training scheme and appreciated the concerted efforts of the state government in taking lead to redress of this serious issue of unemployment.  He assured that government of India would consider all viable proposals of the state government and would also chalk out futuristic plan for providing central assistance to Punjab. 
Emphasizing the need to create awareness amongst the masses for these beneficial short term courses, Mr. Kothari asked the state government to intensify their efforts for the publicity of these schemes in an effective manner. 
Prominent amongst other who were present on the occasion included Tourism Minister Mr. Sarwan Singh Phillaur, Principal Secretary Tech. Edu.& Indl. Training Mr. SS Channy, Special Principal Secretary to Chief Minister MR. KJS Cheema, Principal Food Craft Institute Mr. NavdeepSharma, Director Chitkara School of Hospitality Mr. CM Bhan, Director Doordarshan Mr. Om Gauri Dutt Sharma and Director CAMS Punjabi University Dr. Gurmit Maan, besides many other representative of Hotel Industry. 
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CM REVIEWS THE ONGOING DEVELOPMENT WORKS IN LUDHIANA AND JALANDHAR


CHANDIGARH, JULY 2


    The Water Supply, Sewerage & Sewage Treatment Plants (STP) projects in Ludhiana and Jalandhar would be completed at a cost of about Rs.
560 crore and Rs. 380 crore respectively within next three years.

Disclosing this here today a spokesperson of the Chief Minister's office informed that presiding over a meeting held here at Punjab Bhawan to review the status of various on going development works at Ludhiana and Jalandhar, Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal reiterated the firm commitment of the state government to provide 100%of basic amenities in all the cities of the state.

Regarding funding, Mr. Badal said that the state government had already arranged to contribute its share and officers of the state government were in touch with the Government of India (GoI) for the early release of their share. He directed the Municipal Corporations
and Improvement Trusts to gear-up their efforts and participate in this endeavor.
It may be recalled here that under this mission the state government was spending Rs. 8635 crore, out of which Rs.1470 crore had already been spent on the various ongoing development projects in 81 cities
and these works would be completed in a time bound manner.
The Chief Minister also deputed a high level team headed by Principal Secretary Local Government to visit Folariwal (Jalandhar) to study the feasibility of improving or shifting of the Sewage Treatment Plant
(STP) there.

    Prominent amongst others who attended the meeting included MLA (Jalandhar Cantt.) Mr. Pargat Singh, Principal Secretary Local Government Mr. Suresh Kumar, Principal Secretary to the Chief Minister
Mr. S.K. Sandhu, Special Principal Secretary to the Chief Minister Mr. Gaggandip Singh Brar and Mr. Gurkirat Kirpal Singh, Secretary Local
Government Mr. R.K. Verma, Mayor Ludhiana Mr. Hakam Singh Giaspura, Mayor Jalandhar Mr. Rakesh Rathor and other senior  officers of the state government.

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PUNJAB ALLOWS FREE AC TRAVEL TO ELIGIBLE MEDIA PERSONS-MAJITHIA

• ALSO ENHANCES THE FREE TRAVEL LIMIT
• CM ALSO APPROVES CONSTRUCTION OF PRESS CLUBS IN MAJOR CITIES
• MAJOR PROMISES FOR MEDIA FRATERNITY IN THE MANIFESTO FULFILLED
• Rs. 5 LAKH INSURANCE FOR ACCREDITED JOURNALISTS

Chandigarh, July 2: The Punjab government today took a major decision to allow free travel facility to all accredited journalists, Sub-editors and proof readers of daily newspapers based in the districts and at the headquarter also in AC buses of Punjab roadways and PRTC. The government has also decided to enhance the free travel limit from Rs.1200 to Rs.1600 for Media persons posted in Headquarter and Rs.800 to Rs.1200 for Media persons posted in districts.
              Disclosing this here today Mr. Bikram Singh Majithia, Information & Public Relations Minister said that SAD-BJP government had promised in the manifesto regarding this and took no time to accept this major and long pending demand of media persons that would facilitate their travel in the state for discharging their duty. He said that budget provision for travel to the journalists has also been doubled in this budget.
              Announcing another major decision Mr. Majithia said that Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal and Deputy Chief Minister Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal has also accorded in principle approval to the proposal of Public Relations department to construct Press Clubs in various cities to facilitate the journalists to effectively discharge their duties. He said that the department has made initial provision of Rs.1 crore for the construction of Press Clubs that could be increased as per requirement. Mr. Majithia said that these clubs would be constructed in all big cities in a phased manner fulfilling the major promise in the manifesto.
              The Public Relations Minister said that department was also giving free insurance cover of Rs.5 lac to all accredited journalists already. He said that SAD-BJP government was committed for free and objective press and was committed to provide all facilities to the journalists to effectively discharge their duties.
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LIBRARIAN DISMISSED FOR PROLONG ABSENCE

CHANDIGARH, JULY 2:

            The Punjab Government today dismissed Mr. Tejinderpal Singh, Librarian for his prolong absence from the duty. Disclosing this here today, an official spokesman of Higher Education Department said that Mr. Tejinderpal Singh was absent from his duty since 1st April, 1996. He further said that Mr. Tejinderpal neither submit the reply of the charge sheet nor present before the inquiry officer. He said that a public notice was also got published in the newspapers. Despite all these efforts, Mr. Tejinderpal Singh failed to pose himself before the inquiry committee. Subsequently, he was dismissed.

26 XENs, 7 SDEs AND 12 SEs OF PWD, PUNJAB TRANSFERRED

CHANDIGARH, JULY 2:
            The Punjab Government today issued orders of transfers of 26 XENs, 7 SDEs and 12 SEs with immediate effect.
            Disclosing this here, an official spokesperson of government said that Mr. Nathu Ram Goyal has been transferred and posted at Construction Division, Sangrur,  Mr. Gurmeet Singh Sarao at Head Office Patiala, Mr. Rakesh Garg at  Construction Division Moga, Mr. Sukhdev Singh at Central Works Division Pathankot, Mr. Balwinder Singh at Central Works Division-1 Ludhiana, Mr. Kulwant Singh at Construction Division, Malerkotla, Mr. Sukhbir Singh at Construction Division-1 Jalandhar, Mr. Balbir Singh at Horticulture Division Ludhiana, Mr. Sukhdev Singh s/o S. Sewa Ram at Construction Division Kapurthala, Mr. Varinder Kumar at Regional Division, SBS Nagar, Mr. Nareshinder Singh Walia at Regional Division, Mohali, Mr. Rajiv Berry at Regional Division-1 Patiala, Mr. Manmohan at Central Works Division Abohar, Mr. Deepak Goyal at Construction Division Nabha, Mr. N.P. Singh Bhandal at Construction Division Patiala, Mr.  Manjit Singh s/o S. Kanwar Singh at Regional Division Mansa, Mr. Gurnaib Singh Sidhu at PRBDB Mohali, Mr. Tarsem Lal at Quality Contral Cell Chandigarh, Mr. Vipin Bansal at Construction Division-2 Mohali at Fatehgarh Sahib, Mr. Sarbjit Singh Sidhu at Regional Division Amritsar, Mr. Rajpreet Singh Sidhu at Central Works Division Patiala, Mr. Manjit Singh at Mechanical Division Patiala, Mr. Arshdeep Singh at Horticulture Division, Mohali and Mr. R.P Singh has been posted at Construction Division, Mohali.
            He further said that SDE Mr. Inderjit Singh posted at Construction Sub Division Beas (additional charge of Regional Sub Division-3 Amritsar), Mr. P.D. Rana at Main Office Patiala, Mr. Jagdish Ram at Construction Division Fatehgarh Sahib at Sirhind, Mr. Avtar Sigh at Construction Sub Division Jagraon at Ludhina, Mr. Ramesh Chopra at Construction Sub Division-2 Sangrur, Mr. Naveen Mittal at Regional Sub Division Sangrur and SDE Mr. Manpritam Singh has been posted at Regional Sub Division Ferozpur (additional charge Construction Division-2 Ferozpur).
            The spokesman further said that SE Mr. Jaswinder Singh Mann has been posted at Construction Area-1 Patiala, Mr. Malwinder Singh Chadha at Central Area Ferozpur, Mr. Satinderpal Singh Samra at Construction Area Ferozpur, Mr. Varinderjit Singh Dhindsa at Construction Area Bathinda, Mr. Tarheta Singh Chahal at Central Works Area Chandigarh, Mr. Malkeet Singh Kajal at Construction Area-2 Patiala, Mr. Satish Kumar Gupta at P&I Main Office Patiala, Mr. P.P Chaudhary at Construction Area Pathankot, Mr. Lakhwinder Singh Sandhu at Construction Area Amritsar, Mr. Ashok Kumar Goyal-2 at Construction Area Faridkot and Mr. Hemraj Goyal has been posted at Traffic Engineering Cell Chandigarh.

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DHINDSA ORDERS TO FULLY IMPLEMENT I.F.M.S. PROJECT

CHANDIGARH, JULY 2:
           
The Punjab Government today issued instructions to all the departments to implement IFMS (Integrated Financial Management System), fully.

Disclosing this here, Finance Minister Mr. Parminder Singh Dhindsa said that IFMS project has already been implemented in the state and all Financial Commissioners, Administrative Secretaries and Secretaries have been apprised about the establishment of special User ID and Login for every departmental head.

He said that the budgetary statistics relating to all departments has already been uploaded on the IFMS application. He said that HODs have been asked to check budget of the concerned department on the IFM System. Finance Minister said that HODs should be fully acquainted with every DDO of their department regarding this scheme. He said that heads of department have been instructed to ensure the approval for temporary vacant posts of their concerned departments be also entered in the IFMS.

Mr. Dhindsa said that Accountant General, Punjab has apprised that most of the departments got budget under those schemes for which the departments do not get the prior approval of Accountant General. He said that every department has been asked to approach Finance Department for getting prior approval of Accountant General. Finance Minister said that all Finance Commissioners, Administrative Secretaries and Secretaries to promptly act in accordance with the IFMS project.

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INSTRUCTIONS ISSUED TO IMPLEMENT EX-POST FACTO DECISION AFTER PRIOR APPROVAL OF CM
Chandigarh, July 2: The Punjab Government has issued strict instructions that ex-post facto permission should only be sought on those matters which were really emergent and matter was in the preview of Cabinet.
According to an official spokesman all ex-officio decisions have to be implemented  after seeking prior permission of Chief Minister and these decisions have to be got approved from the Cabinet within one month positively. The spokesman said that these instructions have been issued as it was observed that there was undue delay in seeking approval of Cabinet in such decisions.
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INFORMATION AND PUBLIC RELATIONS DEPARTMENT, PUNJAB
ADDITIONAL CHARGE OF DPI COLLEGES TO CHANDER GAIND
Chandigarh, July 2: In an order issued by the Punjab government today Mr. Chander Gaind, Special Secretary, Higher Education has been given the additional charge of DPI (Colleges). Disclosing this here today an official spokesman said that Education Minister Mr. Sikander Singh Maluka has given Mr. Chander Gaind additional charge of DPI (Colleges) along with his present duties.

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CM FORMS EXPERT COMMITTEE TO PROVIDE POTABLE DRINKING WATER IN RURAL AREAS

• 5-MEMBER COMMITTEE WOULD ANALYZE THE PROBLEM AND SUGGEST REMEDIAL MEASURES

Chandigarh July 01, 2012

In a bid to provide safe and quality drinking water to the rural population across the state, Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal has constituted an expert committee which would analyze the different problems in way of it and suggest remedial actions for them.

Disclosing this here today a spokesperson of the Chief Minister’s Office said that the Mr. Badal cleared the file to this effect and appointed the Principal Secretary Science, Technology and Environment, Punjab Mr. Karan Avatar Singh as the Chairman of the committee whereas Secretary Rural Water Supply and Sanitation Mr. Sanjay Kumar has been appointed its Member Secretary. The spokesperson further said that besides both of them, Advisor and Head of Department of Science and Technology Government of India (GoI), Dr. Prasada Raju, Deputy Advisor Ministry of Drinking Water and Sanitation GoI, Mr. D Raj Shekahr and Chief Engineer (Central) Department of Water Supply and Sanitation, Punjab Mr. AK Sony would be the other members of this committee.

The spokesperson further said that the Chief Minister was concerned over the quality of water being supplied to the rural areas as it was noted that more than 1100 tube wells in the state from which the drinking water was being supplied have recorded excess of uranium in water which was beyond the prescribed limits of World Health Organization (WHO). In the same manner there were areas in the state where high TDS in drinking water have been detected whereas in some other water samples the presence of heavy metals in water has also been traced, added the spokesperson. The spokesperson said that apart from this, the Chief Minister was also alarmed over the fact that in large number of area where water supply was being given through Tube well or Canal based schemes, though the quality of water at the source was good but its got contaminated during the process of storage and distribution.

Keeping in view these facts, Mr Badal has constituted this expert committee which would analyze different problems faced by the state government in supplying potable drinking water to the people in rural areas and subsequently suggest the remedial actions for it along with the choice of technology and methods of intervention, added the spokesperson.
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Punjab Government to conduct special Survey for checking the quality of Water in the State –CM

Badal launches “Greening Punjab Campaign” in Fazilka

Non Starting of train between Abhor-Fazilka reflect the apathy of the Union Government-CM

Fazilka, July 1, 2012

          Punjab Chief Minister Mr Parkash Singh Badal today said that peeved over the alarming situation of the polluted water being supplied to the residents of the state, the Punjab government has decided to get a comprehensive survey conducted across the state to check the quality of water.

          Addressing the gathering here today in a state level function to launch the “Greening Punjab Campaign”, the Chief Minister said that under this survey each and every sample of water being supplied in the households whether through tube wells or canal based schemes would be tested for checking its quality so that potable drinking water could be made available to the residents of the state. Mr Badal said that he had directed the officers of the state government to get the survey completed within three months and submit the report regarding it so that necessary action could be taken on it.
Reiterating the commitment of the SAD-BJP alliance government to make Punjab clean, green and pollution free, the Chief Minister exhorted the people to join hands with them for wiping out air and water pollution from the state through massive plantation drive. He said that a comprehensive plantation drive in the state was the need of the hour as only could check the environmental degrading taking place in the state due to the pollution. He said that though the government had made all out efforts to check the rising environmental pollution in the state but the desired result of all the endeavors of the government could be obtained only with the help of the people. He assured the people that within coming two years the state government would fully check the pollution of rivers in the state adding that the “Greening Punjab Campaign” would check the air pollution thus making Punjab clean, green and pollution free.

          The Chief Minister said that it was unfortunate that due to deforestation the forest cover in the state has gone down to 7 % of the total area of the state whereas according to the norms of the Government of India (GoI) it must be more then 33%. However he said that the state government would ensure that the area under forest cover in the state is enhanced to 15% in coming years for which use of the latest technology would be ensured. Emphahzing the need for making “Greening Punjab Campaign” a public movement, Mr Badal said that with such a movement only the spread of grave diseases like that of Cancer, Asthma, Diabetes and others caused due to environmental pollution could be checked.

           Giving the slogan of ‘Each one, plant one'  the Chief Minister said that all the government departments, NGOs and religious bodies besides every individual needs to play a proactive role for checking the environmental degradation in the state by planting large number of trees.  Mr Badal also said that besides planting the trees everybody must ensure that they are maintained for at least three years.

           On the issue of the non starting on train between Abohar and Fazilka despite of the completion of all the work, the Chief Minister said that for the facilitation of people he had got this project sanctioned from the then NDA Government at Centre. However he said that unfortunately the present Union government was delaying the starting of train due to their own vested interests. Slamming the Congress led UPA government, Mr Badal said non starting of train from Fazilka to Abohar was the testimony of the fact that the Union government have always meted out ‘step motherly’ treatment with Punjab.

          Advocating special incentives from the border areas of the state, the Chief Minister said that the brave residents of these areas have always suffered for the nation’s because so they must be compensated by giving special care and attention. He said that understanding this the SAD-BJP government alliance have started a special cadre of teachers of border areas which would not only give recruitment exclusively to the youngsters of these areas but would also improve the level of education in them. However Mr. Badal said that the Union government was apathetic towards border areas as hardly any heed was paid for its development by them.
          Later on talking to the media person the Chief Minister said that the Congress leaders were making false propaganda regarding the poor fiscal condition of the state. Making a scathing attack on the state Congress leaders he said that in dearth of issues against the state government they were stooping at the low level. Mr Badal said that already the charges of vendetta leveled by Congress leaders have proved to be hollow in the state assembly and now the Congress leaders have starting chanting this new rhyme. The fiscal situation of state was very sound and Punjab was ushering a new era of development, added the Chief Minister.  
          Mr Badal however said that if the state Congress leaders were seriously worried over the people of Punjab then they must pursue the case of exempting state’s mounting debt from the Union Government because it was the price of war which the people of state had fought for the nation during the period of militancy. Replying to the query regarding education system of the state, the Chief Minister said that a survey was being conducted for requirement of infra structure and staff in education sector adding that in coming three years education system of the state would be completely revitalized.
          Prominent amongst those present on the occasion included Cabinet Minister Mr Surjeet Kumar Jiyani, Financial Commissioner Forest Mr DS Bains, Chief Parliamentary Secretary Chaudhary Nand Lal, Lok Sabha MP Sher Singh Ghubaya besides other leaders of SAD-BJP alliance.    

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