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GOVERNMENT OF INDIA |
Tel: 0172-25418122781803Fax: 0172-2541812GRAM: PUNJCENSUSE-mail: dco-pun.rgi@censusindia.gov.in |
Release of Data on Houses, Household
Amenities and Assets, Census 2011
PRESS NOTE
Census of India 2011 was conducted in two phases. The first phase, called the ‘Houselisting and Housing Census’ was undertaken a few months prior to the second phase termed as ‘Population Enumeration’. The objective of the Houselisting and Housing Census Operations is to identify each building/census house and also to ascertain the quality of the census house, amenities accessible to it and assets available to the households living in those census houses. The fundamental principle is to cover the entire country in a systematic manner without omission or duplication.
In Punjab, the Houselisting Operations were carried out during 1st May to 15th June, 2010. Approximately 48,000 enumerators and 8,000 supervisors were engaged for the canvassing the questionnaire called ‘Houselist and Housing Schedule’. The enumerators visited every household and information was collected on 35 items. A truly gigantic exercise was accomplished with clockwork precision.
Speaking on the occasion, Smt. Seema jain, IAS, Joint Secretary and Director Census, Punjab said that the Houselisting data for Census 2011 is the most comprehensive data set on the living conditions of the households in terms of their housing conditions, amenities available to them, and the specified assets they own. It has immense utility as it provides comprehensive data on human settlements, housing deficit and consequently the housing requirement to be taken care of in the formation of housing policies, the information much needed by various departments of the Union and State Governments and other non – governmental agencies for development and planning at the local level as well as the state level. Director, Census further added that this exclusive data on houses and households will also be immensely beneficial in the private sector as well.
Predominant materials of Roof, wall and floor: Census 2011 shows an improvement over the decade in the use of materials for construction of roof, wall and floor. 49.1% of household have a roof made of concrete, 87.1% households have burnt brick wall and 39.9% have cement flooring.
Number of dwelling rooms: More than one-half (52.8%) of the households are living in either two room or three room tenements. The bigger houses with four or more rooms, is the characteristics of 23.1 percent of the households in the state. Only 1.1% households in the state do not have any exclusive room to live.
Married couples: 65.7% of the households have 1 married couple, and 18.8% of the households have 2 married couples. One in every 20 (5.0%) households is large sized with more than 2 married couples. Furthermore, 10.5% in Punjab has no married couple.
Drinking water: It is notable that Punjab has got 2nd rank in the country in ‘availability of drinking water within premises’. 85.9% of the household have this facility within the premises. It is available near the premises to 10.0% of the households, while for 4.1 percent of the households it is available away from premises.
Every second household in Punjab (51.0%) has ‘Tap’ as the main source of drinking water showing big improvement over that of 2001 (33.6%). In the state, 41.1 percent of the households have Tap water from ‘treated’ source, and 9.9 percent households get tap water from ‘untreated’ source.
Hand pump (24.7%), Tube well/Borehole (21.9%) are the other two main sources of drinking water in Punjab. But the use of these two sources is comparatively predominant in its rural counterpart.
Source of lighting: 96.6 percent of the households in state are having electricity as the main source of lighting showing an increase of 4.7 points over that of 91.9 percent in 2001.
Availability of latrine: Latrine is available within premises to 79.3 percent of the households in the state. Even in rural areas, this facility is available within premises to 70.4 percent households. Noticeably, ‘water closet’ latrine is available to 59.3 percent of the households in Punjab.
Availability of bathroom: Bathing facility within premises is available to 89.0 percent of the households. The percentage for rural and urban areas is 85.2 and 94.8 percent respectively.
Main fuel for cooking: In Punjab, LPG (54.5%) is the most predominant fuel used for cooking. During this decade, this percentage has increased from 33.6 to 54.5 percent. 40.2% of households in Punjab have either wood or cow dung cake or crop residue as the main source of fuel for cooking and this percentage has declined from 56.9 percent in 2001.
Banking services: Two – thirds (65.2%) of the households in Punjab are availing banking services as against 48.5 percent in 2001.
Availability of Assets: percentage of households having Television has registered an increase from 67.7 to 82.6 percent during this decade. In Punjab, 12.8% of households have computer/laptop.
In 2001, information on availability of telephone with the household was collected. In 2011, availability of Mobile has also been recorded. With the inclusion of Mobile, the percentage of households having telephone/mobile has shot up from 18.9 percent in 2001 to 82.1 percent in 2011.
There has been significant rise in the households having scooter/motorcycle/moped and Car/Jeep/Van during this decade. 47.4% of households in Punjab have scooter/motorcycle/moped; the corresponding figure for 2001 was 31.6 Likewise, 13.1% has Car/Jeep/Van in 2011 in comparison with 5.8 percent in 2001. In possession of scooter/motorcycle/moped, Punjab ranks 2nd in the country. Whereas, in possession of Car/Jeep/Van, Punjab is at 4th in the country
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Badal government's lone woman minister convicted, jailed (Roundup)
Patiala (Punjab), March 30, 2012
A fortnight after she was sworn in as cabinet minister, senior Punjab minister Jagir Kaur was Friday arrested and sent to jail after a court held her guilty of criminal conspiracy in the mysterious death of her daughter in April 2000. However, the court dropped murder charges against her.
Jagir Kaur, minister for rural water supply and sanitation and defence services, was sentenced to five years rigorous imprisonment on counts of forcible abortion, wrongful confinement, abduction and criminal conspiracy.
However, the court cleared her of murder charges framed by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI).
Meanwhile, Jagir Kaur resigned from the Parkash Singh Badal government Friday evening after her conviction and arrest. She was the lone woman minister in the Badal government.
The incident has caused immense embarrassment to the Badal government, which came back to power after the recently held assembly elections.
Jagir Kaur was arrested immediately after the sentencing and sent to Patiala Central Jail along with other accused. The special CBI court in Patiala, 80 km from state capital Chandigarh, also imposed a fine of Rs.5,000 on her.
Jagir Kaur is a former president of the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC), the mini-parliament of Sikh religious affairs. She had remained SGPC president twice in 1999-2000 and in 2004.
She has been held guilty under various sections of the Indian Penal Code -- Section 120-B (conspiracy), 313 (causing miscarriage without woman's consent), 344 (wrongful confinement for 10 days or more) and 365 (kidnapping or abducting with intent of secretly and wrongfully to confine person).
However, the court dropped the charges of murder (Section 302) against Jagir Kaur and others who had been accused by the CBI.
Three others - Dalwinder Kaur Dhesi, Paramjit Singh, both of whom had facilitated Harpreet's forced abortion, and Nishan Singh, a Punjab Police officer - have also been absolved of murder charges but convicted for conspiracy and other charges. Two others, Harminder Singh and Satya Devi, were absolved by the court of all charges.
Another accused, Sanjeev Kumar, who has since died, was also absolved of all charges.
Jagir Kaur's daughter Harpreet Kaur had died under mysterious circumstances April 20, 2000, following which she was cremated hastily by the family members. There was no post-mortem conducted. The Badal government was in power at that time as well.
Harpreet had angered her mother and other family members by secretly marrying a youth, Kamaljit Singh, who belonged to a lower caste. Kamaljit belonged to Begowal village in Kapurthala district where Jagir Kaur heads a cash-rich Dera (sect).
The CBI had registered an FIR in the case in 2000 following orders of the Punjab and Haryana High Court. Kamaljit had approached the high court saying that his wife Harpreet had been murdered.
He alleged that Harpreet, who was six months pregnant at the time of her death, was murdered at the behest of her mother at Phagwara, an industrial town 20 km from Jalandhar.
During the trial, several witnesses turned hostile. Kamaljit, too, turned hostile February 2010 but changed his statement later.
In its chargesheet to the court, the CBI had stated that Dalwinder mixed poison in Harpreet's food. The CBI had claimed that Jagir Kaur had sought the help of a doctor to suggest the poison to kill her daughter.
Jagir Kaur, who is a powerful politician in Punjab and considered close to the chief minister, was inducted as a cabinet minister March 14. Being a former SGPC chief, she has a sizeable hold over Sikh religious affairs also....IANS( NRIpress.com)
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GURDASPUR NAIB TEHSILDAR SUSPENDED FOR DERELICTION OF DUTY
Chandigarh, March 30-
Mr JP Salwan Naib Tehsildar posted at Gurdaspur has been placed under suspension by the Commissioner Jalandhar Division with immediate effect for his alleged failure in maintaining law and order situation during a clash in Gurdaspur city on March 29, according to spokesperson of the Punjab Government.
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BJP Kissan Morcha will stop the trains in important stations of Jammu and Kashmir on April 3, 2012 demanding bonus of Rs. 500 on per quintal of wheatBANGLADESH ENVOY CALLS ON CM
BADAL FOR DIRECT EXPORT OF PUNJAB'S KINNOW TO BANGLADESH
CHANDIGARH MARCH 30:
The High Commissioner of Bangladesh Mr. Tariq Karim called on Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal and congratulated him for becoming Chief Minister of Punjab for the record fifth time.
Taking part in the deliberations during a meeting with Mr. Badal at Chief Minister’s residence late last evening, Mr. Karim apprised the Chief Minister of congenial bilateral ties between India and Bangladesh.
Mr. Badal informed the High Commissioner that Punjab being an agrarian economy with less than 2% of entire land mass of the country was a major contributor of food grains to the national pool with 42% and 50% of share in rice and wheat respectively. Mr. Badal also mentioned that SAD-BJP government had successfully created investor-friendly atmosphere for the promotion of trade and commerce.
Referring to the export of Kinnow, the Chief Minister further asked the High Commissioner to evolve some mechanism from their government side to check the illegal export of Kinnow from Punjab to Bangladesh, which had adversely impacted the economy of both the countries.
Mr. Karim assured the Chief Minister that he would certainly take up this matter with his government to workout some permanent solution to mutually benefit both the countries by eradicating the agents' role to ensure smooth and direct export of Kinnow from Punjab to Bangladesh, which would ultimately stop the exploitation of kinnow growers at the hands of these agents.
Mr. Badal asked his Principal Secretary Mr. SK Sandhu to keep a close liaison with the office of the high commissioner of Bangladesh for early resolution of this issue.
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UK DELEGATION CALLS ON CM TO PROMOTE MULTIFACETED LINKS
BETWEEN JALANDHAR AND GRAVESHAM
CHANDIGARH MARCH 30
A five-member UK delegation of Gravesham Borough Council led by its first Punjabi Sikh NRI Mayor Mr. Tanmanjeet Singh Dhesi called on Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal here at his official residence late last evening and apprised him about a unique project to
establish multifaceted links between Jalandhar and Gravesham, as these
cities have been now officially twinned.
Other members of the delegation included; Executive Leader of Gravesham Council Mr. John Burden, Director for Business Mr. Kevin Burbidge, Director for Communities Ms. Melanie Norris and Town Twinning Officer Mr. Barry Rowbotham.
Mr. Dhesi also informed the Chief Minister that under this unique programme Gravesham Council was keen to promote business, cultural, sports and other activities between these cities through establishing a Center at Jalandhar, which would further help in promoting healthy bilateral ties between UK and Punjab for mutual economic growth.
Taking part in the deliberations, Mr. Badal appreciated the efforts of Gravesham Council (UK) to intensify mutual bonding between these two
cities by boosting business, education, culture along with other activities in larger public interest. On behalf of the state government, the Chief Minister assured them of fulsome support and cooperation for the success of this prestigious venture to further strengthen bilateral relations.
Prominent amongst those who were present on this occasion included Agriculture Minister Jathedar Tota Singh, and Director Punjab Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS) Jalandhar Mr. Sahib Singh Dhesi.
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CM SEEKS PRANAB MUKHERJEE’S PROMPT INTERVENTION TO RESOVLE DEMANDS OF GEM AND JEWELLERY TRADERS
CHANDIGARH MARCH 30:
Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today urged the Union Finance Minister Mr. Pranab Mukherjee seeking his direct intervention to resolve the demands of the Gem and Jewellery sector across the state forthwith. .
In a letter to Mr. Mukherjee, the Chief Minister pointed out that the stringent proposals incorporated in the Union Budget for 2012-13 had adversely impacted the gem and jewellery traders who were on the strike in the state for past one week. He said that the proposals of the Union budget regarding imposition of Central Excise Duty on jewellery, tax collection on all cash transactions of Rs.2 lakh and above in addition to these increase in rate of Custom duty on gold imports from 1% to 4% had further accentuated the woes of jewelers manifold in the state. Consequently, these harsh proposals would now require jewellers to maintain an elaborate and cumbersome book keeping, which would put extra financial burden on them. The Chief Minister further mentioned that these proposals of the Union government would not only increase the hardships of family owned small businessmen but also enhance the transaction cost of their business thereby badly hitting the common man.
Mr. Badal further said that there were about 5000-8000 jewellery shops in the state which catered to the need of livelihood of a large number goldsmiths and small workers. He lamented that if the proposals of the Union government were implemented then it would not only put huge economic burden on them but would also result into the loss of employment among the goldsmiths.
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DEPUTY ATTORNEY GENERAL OF PAKISTAN CALLS ON BADAL
CALLS FOR REINFORCING SOCIAL AND CULTURAL TIES BETWEEN INDIA AND PAK
CHANDIGARH MARCH 30:
Deputy Attorney General of Pakistan Mr. Muhammad Khurshid Khan today called on the Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal and emphasized the need to strengthen the age old ties between India and Pakistan.
Disclosing this here today a spokesperson of the Chief Minister’s Office said that both the countries shared linguistic, cultural and social ties but unfortunately the political barriers had drawn lines between the people due to religious fanaticism and secessionism. However they mutually agreed upon to promote peace, communal harmony and friendship between the two countries to script a new chapter of mutual trust and goodwill in the Sub-Continent. The Chief Minister said “None of any religion in the world preaches the cult of violence and hatred and therefore it was the need of the hour to come forward for the promotion of love, peace, brotherhood and co-operation in the region.
Meanwhile, the Chief Minister also enquired about the condition of historic Gurdwaras in Pakistan from Mr. Khan. The Deputy Attorney General from Pakistan apprised Mr Badal that the condition of Gurdwaras was perfect as all out efforts were made by the Pakistan Government for their upkeep and maintenance. Mr. Khan also lauded the role being played by the Sikhs in the economy of Pakistan in general and that of North Western Frontier Province in particular. He also invited Mr. Badal to Pakistan for visiting the holy Sikh shrines in the country.
Lauding the enormous contribution of SAD-BJP government in the overall development and prosperity of Punjab, Mr. Khan said that it was visible from the excellent road infra structure,9 resulting in smooth and congestion free movement of vehicular traffic across the state. Mr Khan recalled Chief Minister’s stupendous efforts to uphold the values of democracy, unity and integrity of the country at one hand and promoting the ethos of peace, communal harmony and amity during his entire glorious political career.
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NEW DEPUTY COMMISSIONERS POSTED IN FIVE DISTRICTS OF PUNJAB
Chandigarh, March 30: The Punjab Government today transferred and posted five IAS and one PCS officer, posting new Deputy Commissioners in five districts of the State
Mrs. Alaknanda Dayal, IAS, Special Secretary Finance has been transferred and posted as Deputy Commissioner Kapurthala in place of Mr. Paramjit Singh IAS who has been posted as Deputy Commissioner Sri Mukatsar Sahib.
Mr. Arshdeep Singh, IAS Deputy Commissioner Sri Mukatsar Sahib has been transferred and posted as Deputy Commissioner Moga and Ms. Kavita Mohan Singh Chauhan, IAS Additional Secretary Planning has been transferred and posted as Deputy Commissioner Barnala. Mr. Amit Dhaka, IAS Additional Deputy Commissioner Development Amritsar has been transferred and posted as Deputy Commissioner Mansa in place of Mr. C.S.Talwar.
Mr. DPS Kharbanada , PCS , Secretary RTA Ferozepur has been transferred and posted as MD PRTC Patiala.
Orders regarding posting of Mr. Baldeo Purushartha, IAS, Mr. Vijay N.Zade IAS and Mr. C.S.Talwar IAS would be issued separately.
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IAS PIRTHI CHAND ASSIGNED ADDITIONAL CHARGE
CHANDIGARH, MARCH 30:
In an order issued by the Punjab Government today, Mr. Pirthi Chand, IAS, Director, Colonization and in Addition Special Secretary, Co-operation and In addition Secretary, Punjab State Schedule Caste Commission, has been given the additional charge of the post of Special Secretary, Housing and Urban Development, Punjab in addition to his own duty. It was disclosed by a spokesman of the Punjab Government here today.
No. PR-12/62
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HOLIDAYS PARTIALLY AMENDED
CHANDIGARH, MARCH 30:
In a notification issued today by the Punjab Government, partial amendment has been enacted in the previous notification, issued on 26.12.2011. As per the amendment, holidays given under the Negotiable Instrument Act, 1881, Under Section 25 for Bank holidays (annual/half yearly account closing) on 1st April (Sunday) and 30th September (Sunday) would now be given on 2nd April (Monday) and 29 September (Saturday), respectively.
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Capt Amarinder condemns Gidderbaha incident
CHANDIGARH, March 30: Punjab Pradesh Congress Committee President Capt Amarinder Singh today condemned the demolition of the houses belonging to poor in village Madheer in Gidderbaha assembly segment at the behest of the local sarpanch just because he suspected them of having voted for the Congress.
In a statement issued here today, Capt Amarinder maintained that the incidents of vendetta were regularly coming to his notice at the lower level from across the state. He said, in village Madheer, in Gidderbaha assembly segment, the poor who have been living in the shamlat land for a long time were forcibly evicted and their houses demolished by the local sarpanch and when they protested they were put behind bars.
He disclosed that it took a day long protest demonstration led by the local MLA Raja Warring outside the police station to get them released.
The PCC President reminded the Chief Minister of his commitment to look into the vendetta cases. He said, other cases were also being forwarded to him (the CM) for the action he has promised to take.
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Capt Amarinder hails judicial verdict in Jagir Kaur’s case
CHANDIGARH, March 30: Punjab Pradesh Congress Committee President Capt Amarinder Singh today hailed the verdict of a special CBI court which convicted Bibi Jagir Kaur, a senior minister in the Akali-BJP government. He observed, “law has ultimately taken its course and the guilty stand punished”.
Capt Amarinder said, her conviction, against all odds has reaffirmed the faith of people in the judiciary which does real justice with everyone no matter how powerful or influential he or she may be. The PCC President remarked, “we are proud of our judiciary which has finally punished the guilty”.
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CM ORDERS MAGISTERIAL INQUIRY INTO ALLEGED FIRING INCIDENT AT GURDASPUR
CHANDIGARH MARCH 29:
The Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today ordered a magisterial inquiry into an incident of alleged firing at Gurdaspur, in which one person was killed and another injured.
Disclosing this here today a spokesperson of the Chief Minister’s Office said that Mr. Badal directed the Deputy Commissioner Gurdaspur Mr. Mohinder Singh Kainth to get the magisterial inquiry conducted at the earliest in a fair and impartial manner. The Chief Minister also appealed the people of Punjab to exercise restrained and maintained peace, communal harmony and amity at all cost.
Meanwhile, the Deputy Commissioner Gurdaspur has entrusted the inquiry to the SDM Gurdaspur Mr. Tajinder Pal Singh Sandhu and asked him to submit the report at the earliest.
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BATHINDA REFINERY TO BE INAUGURATED IN APRIL: SUKHBIR
- Rs 21500 CRORE PROJECT SET TO CHANGE THE FACE OF PUNJAB
PUNJAB TO SET-UP INDUSTRIAL PARK NEAR REFINERY
CHANDIGARH, MARCH 29: Guru Gobind Singh Refinery-a HPCL-Mittal Energy Limited project that has become fully operational would be inaugurated in mid-April, changing the industrial scenario of whole Punjab.
Mr. Prabh Das, Managing Director cum Chief Executive Officer of HPCL-Mittal Energy Limited, today called on Punjab Deputy Chief Minister Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal and thanked him for total cooperation offered by Punjab Government in completing this Rs 21500 crore mega project in a record time. Mr. Das informed that this was the largest investment in Punjab since independence, which could be possible because of pro-active approach of SAD-BJP government. He said that it was matter of record that the refinery, which started constructing in 2008, has started refining mineral oil in August 2011 less than 48 months. He said that with the cooperation of Punjab Government the company could construct Crude Oil Terminal and 1017 km cross country pipeline in record 27 months.
Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal, Deputy Chief Minister, said that with the full operationalisation of Refinery, the Punjab government would now attract tertiary industry that could use the by-products of refinery as their raw material and for this purpose he asked the Industry Department to set-up an Industrial Park of 200 acres in the vicinity of Refinery. Mr. Badal said that Bathinda refinery, tertiary industry and service sector would provide employment to thousands of Punjabi youth and change the total industrial scenario of Punjab.
It was also decided to organize a seminar for famous industrial houses of the country to educate them regarding new investment opportunity offered by Bathinda Refniery in Punjab.
Mr. J.S. Saini, General Mangaer Coordination and Mr. Sanjeev Malhotra, Vice President Treasury accompanied Mr. Prabh Das.
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WESTERN COMMAND PRESENTS VIJAYANTA TANK TO CM FOR MAHARAJA RANJIT SINGH ARMED FORCES PREPARATORY INSTITUTION MOHALI
CHANDIGARH MARCH 29:
General Officer Commanding-in-Chief Western Command Lt. Gen. SR Ghosh, PVSM, AVSM, SM, ADC today presented Vijayanta Tank to Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal for Maharaja Ranjit Singh Armed Forces Preparatory Institution Mohali.
In his welcome address appreciating the role of Punjab that had enriched country’s armed forces through enormous contribution of officers and jawans, Lt. Gen. Ghosh said that there was a strong bond between Punjab and Army especially with Western Command. He proudly said, “Punjab is Army and Army is Punjab”. Lauding the role of Punjab government for establishing Maharaja Ranjit Singh Armed Forces Preparatory Institution at Mohali, Gen. Ghosh said that it was a unique and first institute of its kind in the region that was visualized and conceptualized by Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal with sole aim to train the youth of Punjab for getting enrolled as officers in the armed forces through National Defence Academy.
Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Badal appreciated the gesture of presenting Vijayanta Tank for Maharaja Ranjit Singh Armed Forces Preparatory Institution Mohali and said that the first batch of 45 cadets had been started getting training from April 2011 and the second batch would be commenced training from April, 2012. He further said that to motivate our youth to join naval services, Punjab government was also setting up a Naval academy at Ropar.
Mr. Badal further said that in a significant decision for the setting up of Service Selection Centre at Ropar, the Cabinet had already approved to provide 200 acre land free of cost to the Western Command for setting up this first centre in the Northern region.
The Chief Minister has expressed serious concern over the recruitment in the army on the basis of population ratio based quota system and said that this system had drastically decreased the number of youth from Punjab getting recruited in the armed forces. Mr. Badal further said that the Centre should do away with this population-based quota system for recruitment in the armed forces and recruit maximum number of youth from this border state as officers and jawans in armed.
On this occasion, Lt. Gen. Ghosh announced a rolling silver trophy of Western Command for the best cadet of Maharaja Ranjit Singh Armed Forces Preparatory Institution Mohali.
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Capt Amarinder appeals for peace; condoles Gurdaspur youth’s death in police firing
CHANDIGARH, March 29:
Punjab Pradesh Congress Committee President Capt Amarinder Singh today condoled the death of a youth in police firing in Gurdaspur. He appealed to the people of the state to maintain peace and communal harmony at all costs and not to get provoked.
Expressing shock and grief over the death of a youth Jaspal Singh and serious injuries to two others Ranjit Singh and Hardeep Singh, he also asked the police to exercise utmost caution and restraint in dealing with the protestors lest precious lives are lost as happened today in Gurdaspur.
Conveying his sympathies to the bereaved family, the PCC President asked the government for adequate compensation to his family, besides providing assistance for the treatment of the injured youth.
Capt Amarinder cautioned the state government against any laxity in the law and order saying it did not portend well for the state as this government is proving to be very ineffective in maintaining peace and law and order in the state.
“This government seems to be trapped between inaction and overreaction”, he remarked, while pointing out, either it takes no action and when it does, it resorts to overreaction thus complicating the matter further.
PREVENTION OF BLINDNESS WEEK TO BE OBSERVED FROM 1ST APRIL
CHANDIGARH, MARCH 29:
The National Society for the Prevention of Blindness-India will observe 'Prevention of Blindness Week' from 1st April to 7th April, 2012. The theme for the week is "Eye Banks and Corneal Transplantation".
It was disclosed in a communiqué of 'National Society for the Prevention of Blindness-India'. It was urged though this release that people should visit their nearby eye banks and disseminate information about eye health to other people. The main objective enlisted for the observance of this week included, alert the community of the various risk factor that lead to eye injuries and other causes of visual impairment of blindness, educate the masses on the possible eye problems, their complications and the need for the periodic eye check up by an ophthalmologist, work with eye clinics/detection camps to facilitate checkup of individuals and provide teachers, social workers and health personnel with the information to be disseminated to observe proper eye hygiene.
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The Punjab Government declared half- day holiday for the second half of the day on Friday
Chandigarh, March 29:
The Punjab Government declared half- day holiday for the second half of the day on Friday i.e. 30-03-2012 in its offices and offices of Boards and corporations & Education Institutes located in Chandigarh and Mohali to facilitate its employees to participate in Sobha Yatra on the eve of Utsav of Sri Ram Naumi.
However State Government offices of Boards, Corporations and education institutions located in Punjab State would remain closed for the second half of the day on March 31, 2012 (Saturday).
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ONE IAS AND FIVE PCS OFFICERS TRANSFERRED
Chandigarh, March 29:
The Punjab Government today issued postings and transfer orders of one IAS and 5 PCS officers with immediate effect.
Disclosing this here today a spokesman of the Punjab Government said that Mr. Paramjit Singh Aujla, I.A.S, has been transferred and posted as Secretary PWD (B& R) and in addition Secretary Sports and Youth Services and in addition Principal Secretary to Deputy Chief Minister, Punjab,
Likewise, Mr. Manvesh Singh Sidhu, PCS, has been posted as MD PRTC Patiala and in addition Special Principal Secretary to Deputy Chief Minister Punjab, Mr. Ashwani Kumar Sharma, PCS has been posted as Additional Principal Secretary to Deputy Chief Minister Punjab. Mr. Daljit Singh PCS has been posted as Secretary, Subordinate Services Selection Board relieving Mr. Jasdeep Singh Aulakh of this additional charge.
The spokesman further said that Mr. Parminder Pal Singh PCS has been posted as Joint Secretary, Food, Civil Supplies and Consumer Affairs, Punjab relieving Mr. N.S. Brar of this additional charge and Smt. Hargunjit Kaur PCS has been posted as Joint Secretary, Food, Civil Supplies and Consumer Affairs, Punjab in place of Smt. Amadndeep Kaur.
He further said that Mr. Moneesh Kumar PCS will continue to work as Joint Secretary Sports and Youth Services and in addition OSD to Deputy Chief Minister Punjab.
Orders regarding posting of Smt. Amandeep Kaur, PCS will be issued separately.
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BADAL’S CLEMENCY PLEA TO THE PRESIDENT OF INDIA ON BHAI RAJOANA
NEW DELHI MARCH 28:
Punjab Chief Minister and Patron of the Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today appealed to the President of India Smt. Pratibha Devisingh Patil to grant clemency to Bhai Balwant Singh Rajoana against whom warrants of death have been issued by a Chandigarh Court. Mr. Badal met the President and submitted a petition in this regard. He was accompanied by the Deputy Chief Minister & SAD President Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal and Member Parliament from Bathinda Mrs. Harsimrat Kaur Badal.
A copy of the petition submitted to the President is attached herewith.
…
I approach Your Excellency on an issue of great sensitivity and immense public importance, requiring your immediate kind attention,
You are well aware that Punjab and the country have come through a period of great social and political turmoil in which thousands of innocent lives were lost. With great efforts and with the cooperation of the people of Punjab, an atmosphere of peace and complete communal harmony has been achieved. But there is still a tragic residue which has to be handled by all of us with great care, sagacity and farsightedness.
A Chandigarh court has issued the death warrants for the execution of Bhai Balwant Singh Rajoana in the case of assassination of the former Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Beant Singh. The warrants of death in the case have been ordered to be executed on March 31.
This has set off a chain of events because of which atmosphere in the state has become highly surcharged. Several organisations have given a call for Bandh in Punjab. Some of them have also announced a march to the Central Jail, Patiala, where Bhai Rajoana is currently lodged. Some internal and external forces are waiting to exploit this situation to disturb the hard earned atmosphere of peace and communal harmony in the state and to destabilize the country by fomenting trouble in this sensitive border state.
In the light of all this, it has become imperative for all of us tasked with safeguarding the interests and the destiny of the country to prevent the situation from sliding in that tragic direction. This is all the more important considering Punjab’s strategic geographical location, sharing a long active international border with Pakistan and contiguous to J and K, where forces hostile to the country have been active to destabilize conditions in the country.
I am here to seek your kind intervention to secure clemency for Bhai Rajoana. A petition filed by the Shriomani Gurdwara Prabhandak Committee, is already pending with your office.
There is a complete political unanimity in favour of clemency being granted to Bhai Rajoana. The Congress party as well as the family of the late Chief Minister Mr. Beant Singh has also strongly pleaded for clemency in the case.
The whole nation looks up to Your Excellency, as custodian of peace, tranquility and stability of the country to save the situation from taking a turn dangerous for the interests of the country at large
In the light of the above, I approach Your Excellency with a request that the clemency petition filed by SGPC may be considered favourably and clemency be granted to Bhai Balwant Singh Rajoana at the earliest in the larger interest of peace, communal harmony and in the national interest.
Yours sincerely,
( Parkash Singh Badal)
Her Excellency Smt. Pratibha Devisingh Patil,
Hon’ble the President of India,
New Delhi.
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Capt Amarinder hails UPA govt”s move to stay Rajoana’s hanging
CHANDIGARH, March 28:
Punjab Pradesh Congress Committee President Capt Amarinder Singh today hailed the Congress led United Progressive Alliance government at the centre to stay the execution of Balwant Singh Rajoana.
At the same time he appealed to people of Punjab to maintain peace at all costs.
Appreciating the proactive stand taken by the UPA government, Capt Amarinder maintained that the decision will go a long way in maintaining and safeguarding the hard earned peace in Punjab which has been established after a lot of sacrifices.
Appealing to the people of Punjab to maintain peace at all costs, he pointed out, the Congress led UPA government respected the emotions and sentiments of people of Punjab and in the same spirit it had stayed the execution of Rajoana.
He also expressed his gratitude to the Congress led UPA government at the centre for taking this decision in the long term interest of the peace in the state.
BADAL APPEALS TO THE PEOPLE TO MAINTAIN PEACE AND COMMUNAL HARMONY PEACE AND LAW & ORDER TO BE MAINTAIN AT ALL COSTS
New Delhi/Chandigarh , March 28
The Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal said here today that peace in the state will be maintained at all costs and no one will be allowed to take law in his own hands. “We are committed to maintaining peace and law and order at all costs.“ said the Chief Minister.
Mr. Badal also appealed to the people to maintain peace and communal harmony. The government respects the sentiments of all sections of the people and their rights to express their views in a legitimate and peaceful manner, nothing should be done to endanger the hard earned atmosphere of peace and communal harmony in the state. The people of Punjab have made great sacrifices for this cause and the government is determined to deal firmly with any possible attempts to disturb it,” said the chief Minister in a statement here.
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TAKES CHARGE AS CHAIRMAN OF PUNJAB AGRO INDUSTRIES CORPORATION IN PRESENCE OF BIKRAM SINGH MAJITHIA
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CHANDIGARH, MARCH 27:
The farming community in the state has been marginalised due to the callous attitude and wrong agro policies of Congress led Union Government but the SAD-BJP government is committed to make agriculture a more profitable trade thus boosting the Agro based industry in the state.
This was stated by Mr. Amrik Singh Aliwal, while talking to media persons after assuming the charge as Chairman of Punjab Agro Industries Corporation in the presence of Mr. Bikram Singh Majithia, Minister for Revenue, Rehabilitation and Public Relations. Mr. Aliwal said that the agriculture would be brought back on track by lending a helping hand to a farming community. He reiterated that he would discharge his duty whole heatedly so that he could live up to the expectations of Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal. Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Majithia said that Mr. Aliwal was hand-picked for this responsibility because of his selfless services, he rendered toward the party and the state. He said that Mr. Aliwal had the unique honor of representing the Ludhiana Parliamentary constituency in the Lok Sabha, besides serving the Youth Akali Dal in the capacity of President.
Prominent amongst other present on the occasion included Mr. Charanjit Singh Atwal, Speaker, Legislative Assembly, Punjab, Mr. Raminder Singh Bolaria, Mr. Ranjeet Singh Dhillon, Mr. Darshan Singh Shiwalik, Mr. Manpreet Singh Iyali, Mr. Shiv Ram Kaler (all MLAs) and former ministers Mr. Jagjeet Singh Garcha and Mr. Maheshinder Singh Grewal, former MP Mr. Gurcharan Singh Ghalib, Ex MLA Mr. Ranjeet Singh Talwandi, Mr. Santa Singh Umedpury, Chairman, Subordinate Services Selection Board, Punjab and National President of Sikh Students Federation Mr. Gurcharan Singh Grewal.
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PUNJAB GOVERNMENT WOULD FULFILL CAPT. KANWALJIT SINGH’s DREAM OF OVERALL DEVELOPMENT: MAJITHIA
· PAID WARM TRIBUTES TO LATE SENIOR AKALI LEADER ON THIRD DEATH ANNIVERSARY
CHANDIGARH, MARCH 28: Mr. Bikram Singh Majithia, Revenue Minister, Punjab today said that the Punjab Government was coomiited to realize the overall development dream of late Senior Akali Leader Captain Kanwaljit Singh.
Paying warm tribute to Captain Kanwaljit Singh on his third death anniversary at Gurudwara in Sector 8, Mr. Majithia said that Shiromani Akali Dal would always remember the significant role played by him for the promotion and strengthening of Party at grass root level. He said that people of Punjab has taught a lesson in recent Vidhan Sabha elections to those, who were opposing the interest of the state by criticizing SAD-BJP coalition but the ruling combine was missing such a political stalwart at this historic political occasion in Punjab.
Appreciating the hard work done by Mr. Jasjeet Singh Bunny, son of Captain Kanwaljit Singh, during Vidhan Sabha polls for the victory of party candidates, Mr. Majithia said that Mr. Bunny was a hardworking politician and SAD was fully confident that he would also serve the party following the footsteps of Capt Kanwaljit Singh. He said that the residents of Ajitgarh District would never forget the role of Capt Singh in the all round development of this district and now the Punjab government would pay its full attention to make the continuity of development of Ajitgarh on priority basis.
Speaking on this occasion MLA from Dera Bassi Mr. N.K. Sharma said that Captain Kanwaljit Singh was the person, who brought him to the Politics and the credit for his current political position goes to Capt. Singh. He said that he learned lot of political technicalities from the vast political experience of Mr. Singh.
Prominent amongst those present on the occasion were included Mr. Harmeet Singh Sandhu, MLA, Vardev Singh Mann, Jathedar Ujagar Singh Wadali, SGPC members Surjit Singh Garhi, Jasmer Singh Lathru and Nirmal Singh Jaula Kalan besides Mr. Hari Singh Tohra, President Punjab State Employee Federation, Mr. Bhupinder Singh Saini, state awardee, Mr. Kashmir Singh Mavi, Mr. Jaspinder Singh Lally, President Youth Akali Dal, District Mohali Rural, Bibi Kuldeep Kaur Kang, President Istri Akali Dal, Mohali, Mr. Parmjeet Singh Kahlon and Gurkirat Singh Thoohi, Former Political Advisor of Captain Kanwaljit Singh.
Caption: Mr. Bikram Singh Majithia, Revenue Minister, addressing the gathering on third death anniversary of Capt Kanwaljit Singh while MLA N.K. Sharma, Mr. Jasjeet Singh Bunny and MLA Harmeet Singh Sandhu were also seen in the picture.
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MID-DAY MEAL TO CONTINUE UNINTERRUPTED: SIKANDER MALUKA
Chandigarh, March 28
Punjab Education Minister Mr. Sikander Singh Maluka today rejected a news item published in a section of press that Mid-Day Meal scheme has been stopped. He assured that this scheme would continue uninterrupted. He said that required funds have already been released. He said that instructions have been issued to all the concern officers to implement all student welfare schemes in its true spirit and no laxity would be tolerated.
The Minister said that the committees have been constituted at the district and block levels under the chairmanship of senior officers which would monitor and ensured the effective implementation of the schemes. he said that the teams also inspect the quality of the food being served. He categorically said that anyone found guilty would not be spared.
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ROTATIONAL IRRIGATION PROGRAMME FOR RABI SEASON ANNOUNCED
Chandigarh, March 28:
The Irrigation Department, Punjab has announced the Rotational Programme for irrigation for the current Rabi Season through Canal water from 06-04-2012 to 13-04-2012. The channels of Sirhind Canal System would run on the priority basis from Abohar Branch, Patiala feeder, Sidhwan Branch, Bathinda Branch and Bist Doab Canal, respectively.
Disclosing this here today a spokesman of the irrigation department said that Ghaggar link and its off taking channels i.e. Ghaggar Branch and Patiala Minor in Group 'B' being in the first preference will run to their indent. Balance water supplies available will be utilized in direct distributaries of Bhakra Main Line in group 'A' respectively.
The spokesman further said that Abohar Branch off-taking from Sirhind Feeder and distributaries in Group "B" being in the First preference will run to their ident. Balance water supplies available would be utilised in direct distributaries of Group 'A'.
The spokesman also said that the channels off taking from upper Bari Doab Canal i.e. Main Branch Lower with its distributaries being in the first preference would run to their indent. Balance water supplies water available would be utilised in Lahore Branch, Sabraon Branch, Kasur Branch Lower with their distributaries respectively.
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SUPERINTENDENT OF PATIALA JAIL EXPRESSES ITS ‘INABLITIY AND DISABILITY’ UNDER LAW TO EXECUTE THE DEATH WARRANTS AGAINST BALWANT SINGH RAJOANA
- REFUSES TO ACCEPT WARRANTS
- SUPERINTENDENT OF JAIL TO APPEAL IN THE HIGHER JUDICIAL AUTHORITY AGAINST THE ORDER OF ADDITIONAL SESSION COURT
CHANDIGARH, MARCH 27: The Superintendent of Central Jail, Patiala today pleaded the Additional Sessions Judge Chandigarh that he " unable and disabled in law " to accept warrants of death against Bhai Balwant Singh Rajoana and refused to accept the same. He told the learned court that he was approaching the next higher court for appropriate next step in the case.
The Superintendent of Central Jail, Patiala while refusing to accept the warrants, brought to the notice of Court that there were legal infirmities in the procedure. It had also requested the court for deferment of sentence decision of Honorable Supreme Court of India in the appeals of Lakhwinder Singh alias Lakha and Jagtar Singh Hawara, which were pending adjudication.
The Superintendent of Jail contended that it was his bounden duty to ensure that the procedure established by Law is meticulously followed before executing the death sentence. He said that as per Supreme Court guidelines prior to actual execution of any death sentence, the Jail Superintendent should ascertain personally whether the death sentence imposed upon any of the co-accused of the prisoner, who is due to be hanged has been commuted and if it has been commuted, the Superintendent should apprise the superior authorities of the matter, who in turn, must take prompt steps for bringing the matter to the notice of the courts concerned.
The Superintendent of Jail also brought to the notice of Court that both Balwant Singh and Jagtar Singh Hawara were sentenced to death. The death sentence of Jagtar Singh Hawara was commuted to life by the Hon’ble High Court. The appeal of the co-accused Lakhwinder Singh @ Lakha is pending before the Hon’ble Supreme Court of India.
He also submitted that appeal of co-accused Lakhwinder Singh alias Lakha and Jagtar Singh Hawara were pending and during the pendency of these appeals it was necessary to await the outcome of the matter in the Honorable Supreme Court before executing the death warrant.
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KHAIRA’s OPEN LETTER A GIMMICK TO GET CHEAP PUBLICITY -DR. CHEEMA
Chandigarh, March 28 : The Shiromani Akali Dal today strongly condemned the open letter written by the Congress leader Sukhpal Singh Khaira to the Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash singh Badal on death penalty of Bhai Balwant Singh Rajoana as totally misleading, mischievous and aimed at getting cheap publicity from an an extremely sensitive and emotional issue.
Reacting to the statement of the Congress leader party Secretary and Spokesman Dr. Daljit Singh Cheema said that according to Mr. Sukhpal Singh Khaira an appropriate government can commute the death sentence under section 433 (a) of Cr. Pc but he has not clarified that which government is an appropriate government in the present case. Is it the state government of Punjab or the Government of India ?
Dr. Cheema further said that by doing so Mr. Khaira is trying to confuse the public and trying to put the blame on the state government whereas in reality he very well knows that the case belongs to the Chandigarh police, it has been decided by a Chandigarh court and Chandigarh administration is well under the direct control of Government of India.
Dr. Cheema advised Mr. Khaira that if he is really concerned about the welfare of Mr. Balwant Singh Rajoana he should desist from taking cheap publicity by writing such open letters to the Punjab Chief Minister and instead he should take this letter to Dr Manmohan Singh and the UPA Chairperson Mrs Sonia Gandhi and apprise them of the provisions of section 433 (a) of Cr PC and request them to use these provisions in the direct interests of the state.
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CM'S REPLY TO GOVERNOR ADDRESS
BADAL CALLS FOR FRAMING NEW CONSTITUTION ON GENUINELY
FEDERAL LINES
DEMANDS 50% SHARE FROM CENTRAL REVENUE COLLECTION FOR STATES
DEMANDS TRANSFER OF CHANDIGARH AND OTHER PUNJABI SPEAKING AREAS TO PUNJAB AND EARLY RESOLUTION OF RIVER WATER DISPUTE
FORMATION OF NCTC – GOI’S DELIBERATE ATTEMPT TO INFRINGE UPON RIGHTS OF THE STATES
LISTS SAD-BJP ALLIANCE MAJOR INITIATIVES AND PRIORITIES
CHANDIGARH MARCH 27:
Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today demanded the setting up of a new constituent assembly to frame a fresh constitution for the country along genuinely federal lines.
Winding up the debate on the motion of thanks to the Governor's address in the Punjab Vidhan Sabha, Mr. Badal lamented that the states had been now gradually reduced to the status of beggars as the meager powers given to states were progressively eroded by the Centre.
Mr. Badal said that constitution was not in tune with the requirements of the changing times and as a result the country was not able to fully utilize its potential for development and prosperity. He however, said that states were the best qualified to understand and address the problems of the people in an effective manner. “Shiromani Akali Dal was the first to raise this demand because it is in the interest of the country to grant autonomy to the states”, asserted Mr. Badal.
Pleading for recasting of formula for devolution of funds to the state, Mr. Badal said that “strong states mean strong nation”. He demanded that 50% of the revenue collected by the Centre should be given to the states to carry out development works according to their felt needs. He pointed out that the norms devised by GoI for the distribution of resources and devolution of central funds were too stringent to deliberately exclude the states like Punjab from these centrally sponsored schemes.
The Chief Minister made a strong pitch for the transfer of Chandigarh and other Punjabi speaking areas to the state and declared, “Chandigarh is the soul and spirit of Punjab and must be transferred to us without further delay”. He also demanded a resolution of the river water dispute as per the national and internationally accepted Riparian Principle forthwith.
Highlighting the sheer injustice done to Punjab on industrial front, the Chief Minister pointed out that the Centre deliberately opted not to sanction big industries in the state probably for the reasons best known to it. He said; “Whatever industry we had in our state was left with no other option except to shift its base to the neighbouring states of Himachal Pradesh, Uttrakhand and Jammu & Kashmir due to several concessions and incentives given to the industry thereby resulting in utter decay of local industry in Punjab”. He demanded a special industrial package for Punjab too from Centre as it richly deserved being a border state.
The Chief Minister also decried the Congress’s move to capture SGPC by whipping up passions over the issue of setting up of a separate Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee in Haryana. He also rued the Centre for inordinate delay for calling the co-opt session of the newly elected SGPC which was mandatory for the election of office bearers and subsequently the passage of its annual budget before March 31st. All this would lead to financial chaos thereby hampering the functioning of the Sikh’s religious organization, added Mr Badal.
On the issue of National Counter Terrorism Centre (NCTC), the Chief Minister said that SAD-BJP alliance had vehemently opposed this move which aimed at usurp the powers of the state governments contrary to the spirit of federalism. He said that this was a planned and deliberate attempt of the Centre to dilute the federal character of our country to make it unitary, which would be ever opposed by our government tooth and nail.
Dwelling on the spectacular performance of SAD-BJP alliance in the recent concluded assembly polls, Mr. Badal said that the historic mandate given by the Punjabis for creating a history in Punjab to bring back an incumbent government for second term was an ample proof of people’s unflinching faith and confidence in its policies and programs. Record turnout of voters nearly 80% who exercised their franchise in these polls was also a testimony to SAD-BJP’s triumph. He made a firm resolve to fulfill the aspirations of the electorate in the fresh term with renewed zeal and far more commitment. He also appreciated the Punjabis and the state government for ensuring peaceful, free and fair elections in Punjab. “These election results are also a strong mandate in the favour of peace, communal harmony, all around development, good governance and social security”, remarked Mr. Badal.
Mr. Badal also stated that politics of confrontation and vendetta had no place on government’s agenda and sought whole hearted co-operation from the opposition to put Punjab in the orbit of high growth trajectory. He called upon the members of the House especially the opposition for constructive outlook and shun negative approach to ensure all out development and prosperity in the state.
Taking pot shots at the Congress leadership, Mr. Badal said political immaturity, vendetta politics, five star culture, inaccessibility and arrogance mainly led to party’s debacle at the hands of SAD-BJP alliance in the assembly elections. He said the top state Congress leadership was day dreaming for forming next government in the state. They even went to the extent of making appointments of highest offices of DGP, CS, Principal Secretary to Chief Minister etc. even before the results were declared. Mr. Badal also made oblique reference to some officers of top brass who shifted their loyalties to other side sensing their victory. He however, advised the officers to be always impartial and remain loyal to the chair irrespective of the state government run by any political party.
Questioning the media’s role during the assembly elections, Mr. Badal opined that the practice of opinion poll and exit poll should be dispensed with because it was often biased and unfair. He advised the media to play a constructive role being the watchdog of democracy and also recalled its outstanding contribution in the Indian freedom struggle and SAD’s crusade against emergency to uphold the values of democracy. He however, said that he had always held media in high esteem being the fourth estate of democracy. He lamented how these opinion and exit polls had considerably impacted these electoral results on atleast 10 seats of SAD.
Listing the bold initiatives and achievements of the SAD-BJP during its last regime, Mr. Badal said that Rs.464 crore had been spent on the construction of rural latrines, cycles for girls in Class XI & XII of Government schools, Atta Dal scheme, new ration cards, timely payment of shagun scheme and financial assistance to other beneficiaries under various social security schemes was the top most priority of the government. Prudent fiscal management was likely to garner Rs.12000 crore from VAT and CST during 2011-12 as compared to Rs.5136 crore from 2006-07 during Congress regime. Likewise, the excise collection was likely to touch Rs.3200 crore during SAD-BJP regime by 2011-12 as compared to Rs.1363 crore during previous regime of Congress during 2006-07. SAD-BJP government released grants worth Rs.6154 crore to Local Bodies as compared to Rs.1207 crore during Congress government. Commercial production had already been started in December 2011 at Rs.19000 crore Guru Gobind Singh Refinery at Bathinda. Capital subsidy of Rs.405 crore had been disbursed by the SAD-BJP government whereas no such distribution was made by the previous Congress government.
On the infrastructure development, the Government had undertaken four laning of Jalandhar-Pathankot, Amritsar-Pathankot, Ludhiana-Moga-Talwandi Bhai at a cost of Rs.2188 crore besides a new gigantic project of four laning of Ziralkpur-Patiala-Sangrur-Barnala-Bathinda had also been sanctioned at a cost of Rs.2800 crore.
Concerted efforts of the SAD-BJP government rated Punjab as No.1 state in school infrastructure. 17 new colleges worth Rs.208 crore, 4 new universities had been set up to herald a new era in higher education. He also said that the state government would soon extend the free bicycle scheme to girl students of 9th and 10th class besides free education to all girl students up to MA.
Mr. Badal revealed that the GoI, in its 4th report of the common review mission published in January 2011 rated Health Infrastructure in Punjab as excellent and stated that Punjab would the first state in the country to provide all facilities as per norms.
Reiterating his commitment to maintain peace and law and order in the State at every cost, Mr. Badal equivocally declared that "Punjab Government was fully alive to its responsibility to maintain peace and amity in the state and no one would be allowed to disturb peace in the state”.
To perpetuate the rich legacy of our cultural heritage amongst our younger generations, the state government had recently announced to set up freedom struggle Martyrs’ Memorial in Doaba. A Service Selection Centre (North) would soon come up at Ropar over an area of 200 acre. A sum of Rs.16 crore had been spent on the Shaheed Bhagat Singh Museum at Khatkar Kalan. Apart from these, three historic memorials namely Baba Banda Singh Bahadur War Memorial at Chappar Chiri in SAS Nagar, Wadda Ghallughara at Kup Rohira in Sangrur district and Chhotta Ghallughara at Chamb Kahnuwan in Gurdaspur district besides prestigious Virast-e-Khalsa Complex at Sri Anandpur Sahib had already dedicated to the nation. A sum of Rs. 18 crore had been spent on the holy Ram Tirath Temple of Bhagwan Valmiki ji in Amritsar for its beautification and connectivity. The government has decided to construct a world-class memorial at a cost of Rs. 10 crore at village Khuralgarh in Hoshiarpur district to pay tributes to Sri Guru Ravi Dass ji. Likewise, Bhagwan Parshuram Taposthali is also being developed at village Khatti in Shaheed Bhagat Singh Nagar to pay respect to Bhagwan Parshuram ji. A Rs. 90 crore project of Golden Temple Entrance Plaza was under execution. Naina Devi temple was being connected with Sri Anandpur Sahib through ropeway to facilitate the pilgrims to visit the holy temple. Moreover, Idgah at Malerkotla, Bhawans for Christians, Muslims and other communities would also been constructed shortly.
In the concluding remarks, Mr. Badal said that the SAD-BJP government during its last tenure have turned a new leaf in revenue generation, infrastructure development, employment & skill development, power generation, governance reforms international air connectivity, education, health care, rural and urban development. The path breaking initiatives undertaken by the state government would be taken to their logical end during the present term of SAD-BJP alliance. “We have been successfully able to create excellent environment for good governance, responsive administration and efficient service delivery system which would now emerge Punjab as a front runner state in the country ", said Mr. Badal.
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CM ORDERS DGP TO LOOK INTO ALLEGATIONS OF VENDETTA POLITICS AS RAISED BY LEADER OF OPPOSITION IN PUNJAB VIDHAN SABHA
MY PARTY AND GOVERNMENT NEVER BELIEVED IN
VDENDETTA POLITICS – BADAL
CHANDIGARH MARCH 27:
Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today directed the
State DGP Mr. Sumedh Singh Saini to get all the alleged cases of
vendetta politics against Congress leaders and workers as highlighted
by the Leader of the Opposition in State Legislative Assembly, Mr.
Sunil Kumar Jakhar, probed by an officer of the rank of DIG level.
In a statement made by the Chief Minister on the floor of House on
the issue of vendetta politics and registration of false cases against
the Congressmen, Mr. Badal assured the Leader of Opposition that he
had already forwarded the list of such cases submitted by Mr. Jakhar
to the DGP and ordered him to get the entire matter enquired under his
direct supervision and submit the report within 15 days. He also
asked the DGP to keep abreast of the report and the subsequent action
taken on it to Mr. Jakhar.
Mr. Badal reiterated that he had always held the opposition in high
esteem and his party and government never believed in vendetta
politics adding that abiding by law of the land was their ‘Raj
Dharma’.
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HARSIMRAT LASHES AT INFLATIONARY UNION BUDGET MEANT TO ROB ‘AAM AADMI DECRIES CONGRESS LED UPA GOVERNMENT FOR IGNORING THE INTERESTS OF FOOD BOWL OF COUNTRY
CHANDIGARH/NEW DELHI, MARCH 27:
Member Parliament from Bathinda Mrs. Harsimrat Kaur Badal, today launched a scathing attack on listless, agendaless, Union Budget that would further increase the price rise and rob ‘Aam Aadmi’ on every front.
Participating in the discussion on Union Finance Bill, Mrs. Badal regretted in an economic atmosphere of global gloom due to the slow-down of world economy, India looked towards its government and Finance Budget for assurance of shelter from this environment and directions for our economy towards a defined and progressive path to meet the national and international economic challenges, that this budget has miserably failed.
Mrs. Badal said that what to talk of reversal of slowdown in public and private investments, this budget would have cascading effect on high inflation coupled with rising unemployment. She said that this budget once again not only burdened the Aam Aadmi with yet more additional taxes but also betrayed him by doing nothing to bring down spiraling prices, corruption and unemployment.
Criticising the increasing tightening noose taxes and on ‘Aam Aadmi’, she said that this government has virtually taxed everything and ‘aam aadmi’ probably ends up paying over 55% of his earning in indirect or direct taxes. She said that after paying tax on everything except breathing and sleeping, if the Aam Aadmi expects that to his money collected by the government should be utilized to make his life easier but this government squanders the hard earned tax payers money.
Criticising the increase of service tax from 10 to 12% Mrs. Badal said that this would further rob the pockets of Aam Aadmi already crushed under rising price.
Laughing at new formula of UPA government to reduce poverty, she said that -but all they do is they bring down the poverty line from Rs.32/- (urban) and Rs.26/-(rural) to Rs.27/-(urban) and Rs.22/- (rural) proving that their main aim is NOT to reduce poverty itself but only the poverty line. For them poor are only numbers and not human beings, she regretted.
Warning the impending agrarian crisis looming large on India due to wrong policies, Mrs. Badal said that in the name of economic reforms government has reduced the subsidies that provide a cushion to the farmer from increase in prices of fertilizers and petroleum products. Fertilizers subsidy has come down from 90,000 crores to 60,000 crores. Petroleum subsidy from 68,481 crore to 43580 crores, due to which the input cost of seed, manure, machinery has increased manifold and is still increasing day by day as the Minister has already hinted at a further reduction of petroleum subsidies which means further burden on the farmers and poor people.
She said that due to these policies in the last 9 months alone, Fertilizers prices have gone up by 80% and diesel prices by 50%. But your MSP for the farmers crop is increased only a measly 5% for wheat and 8-9% for rice. Mrs. Badal said that with the Central government forcibly making agriculture such an unviable proposition. It is not hard to understand why almost two lakh farmers are committing suicide every year in our country. By constantly increasing the prices of farmers’ input costs, the government is increasing his debt, But turning a totally blind eye to the reason he is being forced to seek this debt.
Bringing attention of congress led UPA government on ignoring the interest of Punjab, Mrs. Badal said that a small state that comprises of only 2% of India’s landmass. But contributes over 50% of country’s foodgrains. Today if Punjab is forced to stop producing this foodgrain, not only would there be a food disaster in the country but there would be a world food crisis. Because today every 7th person in the world is Indian, so if Punjab does not produce its required foodgrains to feed the people, and the country hits a food crisis, where they are forced to import food to feed this huge population, you can imagine the huge food shortage that will be created worldwide and the chaos it would lead to.
Lashing at the failure of Congress led UPA Government in upgrading the irrigation infrastructure of Punjab, Mrs. Badal said that today 30% of our precious irrigation water is wasted due to leakage from our 150 year-old canal irrigation system. Repeatedly we have been requesting this government to grant us just 5000 crores to revamp our irrigation systems to save this precious water, but while liberal grants and financial packages are given to lavish schemes, the government is blind to the urgency of saving the precious resource of my state that will ensure the Food Security of the people of this nation and the implementation of their proposed Food Security Bill. What kind of lop-sided vision in this?
Exposing the step-motherly treatment of Congress led UPA Government towards Punjab, Mrs. Badal questioned that if you give a Rs 70,000 crore loan waiver package to farmers in 2008-09, the debt-ridden farmers of the state that provide the 50% grain get only 1.5% of this benefit. Even though the debt of Punjab farmers is over 35,000 crores with each farm household being under an average debt of 1.5 lakh.
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SPEECH OF MEMBER PARLIAMENT HARSIMRAT KAUR BADAL
ON DISCUSSION OF BUDGET(GENERAL) IN THE LOK SABHA TODAY
- In an economic atmosphere of global gloom due to the slow-down of world economy, India looked towards its government and Finance Budget for assurance of shelter from this environment and directions for our economy towards a defined and progressive path to meet the national and international economic challenges.
- Although I don’t doubt the brilliance of our learned Finance Minister, I cannot deny the listlessness and lack of enthusiasm in the policy imagination of 2012-13 Finance Budget.
- What should have been a big ticket reformist budget with an all encompassing growth strategy to prevent the country from entering into financial crisis of slow economic growth, reverse slowdown in public and private investments, high inflation coupled with rising unemployment, has instead , once again not only burdened the Aam Aadmi with yet more additional taxes but also betrayed him by doing nothing to bring down spiraling prices, corruption and unemployment.
- Madam, if I reflect the sentiments of the Aam Aadmi who I represent I would not be wrong when I say that the common man is taxed for everything he does, he pays a tax on what he earns, what he buys, what he sells, he even has to pay the tax on his savings. If he uses the roads he pays toll tax, he pays tax for the house he lives in, the water he uses, the electricity he consumes. He even has to pay a tax for his entertainment ! If we calculate in toto all the duties, taxes, cess for education, octroi, VAT, Excise, custom duty, entry tax, income tax – all of these, I think he probably ends up paying over 55% of his earning in indirect or direct taxes.
So if I say that after being taxed on everything besides breathing and sleeping, if the Aam Aadmi expects that to his money collected by the government should be utilized to make his life easier by bringing down prices, giving him access to better and affordable health and educational facilities, skills and job opportunities, redressal of the agrarian crisis and farmer conditions and stimulating the industry to galvanize the economy, I cannot say he is expecting too much but is in fact expecting the very least !
However, the fact of the matter is as I stated that this budget has betrayed him on all counts.
- This budget has failed on three counts :
- In words, the government loudly promises to bring down price rise – but, in action, they raise service tax from 10 to 12% to further fuel price rise.
- They make loud claims about working towards reducing poverty-but all they do is they bring down the poverty line from Rs.32/- (urban) and Rs.26/-(rural) to Rs.27/-(urban) and Rs.22/- (rural) proving that their main aim is NOT to reduce poverty itself but only the poverty line. For them poor are only numbers and not human beings.
- Union budget has contributed only 2% of the GDP for social sectors like health and education, water and sanitation. In fact at the cost of the social sector, the Central government’s total expenditure in proportion to GDP has been reduced from 14.8% in 2011-12 to 14.7% in 2012-13. To meet the growing demands of the population this figure should actually be in double digits as these are the things that affect the lives of the Aam Aadmi. But this government seems obsessed with only raising the growth rate rather than ensuring the tax payers’ money reaches to benefit the Aam Aadmi that consists of the poor, the farmers and the middle class.
3. Sir, not being an economist like our Hon’ble Prime Minister, due to the paucity of time, I would now like to mention just a few points that as a layman, that I feel need to be addressed urgently and are the need of the hour.
If 60% of our population is into farming and 70% (83.3 crore people) live in rural areas. Then shouldn’t rural prosperity be the key driver of overall growth ?
In spite of Agriculture being the backbone of our economy, the country is today faced with the worst agrarian crisis ever because the investment by the government in this sector is quite meager.
In the name of economic reforms government has reduced the subsidies that provide a cushion to the farmer from increase in prices of fertilizers and petroleum products. Fertilizers subsidy has come down from 90,000 crores to 60,000 crores. Petroleum subsidy from 68,481 crore to 43580 crores, due to which the input cost of seed, manure, machinery has increased manifold and is still increasing day by day as the Minister has already hinted at a further reduction of petroleum subsidies which means further burden on the farmers and poor people.
In the last 9 months alone, Fertilizers prices have gone up by 80% and diesel prices by 50%. But your MSP for the farmers crop is increased only a measly 5% for wheat and 8-9% for rice.
- With the Central government forcibly making agriculture such an unviable proposition. It is not hard to understand why almost two lakh farmers are committing suicide every year in our country. By constantly increasing the prices of farmers’ input costs, the government is increasing his debt, But turning a totally blind eye to the reason he is being forced to seek this debt.
- As a prime example, Let me talk about my state Punjab. A small state that comprises of only 2% of India’s landmass. But contributes over 50% of country’s foodgrains. Today if Punjab is forced to stop producing this foodgrain, not only would there be a food disaster in the country but there would be a world food crisis. Because today every 7th person in the world is Indian, so if Punjab does not produce its required foodgrains to feed the people, and the country hits a food crisis, where they are forced to import food to feed this huge population, you can imagine the huge food shortage that will be created worldwide and the chaos it would lead to.
But this government is busy pushing schemes like Food Security Bill, without even looking at the problems faced by the state that is providing the security to the entire nation if not the entire world.
- I have yelled myself hoarse on innumerable occasions in this august House about the falling water levels in Punjab. Even NASA has said that the rate by which water level is depleting in Punjab, it will turn into a desert in next 15 years.
- Today 30% of our precious irrigation water is wasted due to leakage from our 150 year-old canal irrigation system. Repeatedly we have been requesting this government to grant us just 5000 crores to revamp our irrigation systems to save this precious water, but while liberal grants and financial packages are given to lavish schemes, the government is blind to the urgency of saving the precious resource of my state that will ensure the Food Security of the people of this nation and the implementation of their proposed Food Security Bill. What kind of lop-sided vision in this ?
- If you give a 70,000 crore loan waiver package to farmers in 2008-09, the debt-ridden farmers of the state that provide the 50% grain get only 1.5% of this benefit. Even though the debt of Punjab farmers is over 35,000 crores with each farm household being under an average debt of 1.5 lakh.
- I want to ask this government a simple question, when 60% of our country’s population is dependent on agriculture, instead of planning to waste Rs.1,10,000 crores on the Food Security Bill which is being studied by the Standing Committee, and 40,000 crores on NAREGA, and crores on various other schemes, why don’t they simply implement the recommendations of Swaminathan Committee for MSP to the farmer, where he gets actual cost of inputs plus 50% profit.
- If 60% of our farming population become self-reliant by earning 50% profit on agriculture. The farmer will then not need your subsidies of food security. Because, armed with purchasing power, he will be in a position to not only buy food for himself but will also use the extra money to spend on other essentials which will give the required stimulant to your manufacturing industry too.
- His children will no longer be forced to migrate to cities to hunt for jobs due to unsustainability of agriculture.
- And then you can put your energy and all the tax-payers money to provide the necessary health and education, skill training infrastructure required for the upliftment of the Aam Aadmi and youth in rural and urban India.
- If we look at the state of affairs of basic necessities like health and education in our nation, what is the reality –
Each year lakhs die due to lack of medical facilities. Just an example of the Maternal mortality rate is (212 per 100000 live births) which is among highest in the world. Infant Mortality rate is 47 (per 1000 live births). 77% villages don’t have access to basic medical facility of Prime Health Centre. In small urban townships, it is either the expensive private hospitals or the cheap unlicensed quacks.
- If there is a government hospital not only is there lack of staff or equipment but conditions of the hospital are so bad and unhygienic that only the most desperate of the poor land up there.
- But your government in the last 50 years not even added single AIIMS like institution in the country despite three-fold increase in population. At least each state should be funded for a PGI like institution to address the growing demands of health care for our burgeoning population.
- This is major sectors where the government should be laying stress and providing huge funds in the budget.
- If I talk about the education facilities the fact, that only 52% of our women are educated in the 21st century, says it all. Whereas more budget should have been allocated to ensure the educational and skill demands of a youthful and growing population, instead even the Right to Education (Sarva Siksha Abhiyan) which was originally at a ratio of 65:35 (centre : state), has been reduced by this government to 50:50. Most states are already debt ridden and in a state of distress regarding funds. So instead further of pushing a scheme till it reaps desired results, it’s now going to slow down the momentum because of this 50:50 ratio.
- In fact, today to get one’s child’s admission in a good school or college has become so impossible that maybe we could say it is easier to get an MP ticket than admission to school or college. Due to shortage of institutions, the cut-off percentage of marks for admission touched 100% in some colleges. Leading to an exodus of over 3 lakhs bright young kids going overseas for studies due to sheer lack of access to good courses in good colleges and spending more than 40,000 crores. The sleepless nights and stress even we politicians go through for admission of our kids to nursery schools, I need not mention the plight of the commonman.
- The Central Government takes away the bulk of the state taxes for the central pool it then devises central schemes in a ‘one size fits all’ or ‘one schemes suits all’ kind of model. Scope for discretion of the states to initiate state specific development strategy is minimized with the central government allocating and deciding the schemes.
In a country like India where we have hinterland states, hilly states, desert states, border states and all having their unique structure, and unique problems. But this government insist on giving one medicine or one scheme for all illnesses or one recipe for all dishes as well, one scheme cannot cure all problems. For example :
- MNAREGA –
Very beneficial in Bihar or Andhra but disastrous in Punjab. Our budget of MNAREGA of Rs.33000 crores. Whereas Punjab gets only 235 crores, and we waste this money in doing work that is not of critical urgency because we are not allowed to use this fund for what would be a durable asset for our state and economy and our people but we are forced to use it only for things specified by the Centre and not required in Punjab.
- RKVY – RASHTRIYA KRISHI VIKAS YOJANA (for incentivizing states to enhance public investment to ensure 4% growth of agriculture)
Suitable for rain-fed areas but useless for a 98% irrigated state like Punjab.
- PMGSY – PRADHAN MANTRI GRAM SADAK YOJANA
Wonderful scheme for state with no road connectivity but Punjab due to its agriculture economy had already invested and linked all villages and roads to highways. We need money for maintenance and upkeep of these link roads but this scheme only allows new roads.
- SSA – SARVA SIKSHA ABHIYAN
For school buildings. But in Punjab we already invested and made schools in every village. Our problem is funds for recruitment of teachers but we cannot use this money for ensuring better education as it only allows for creating infrastructure.
- These special purpose schemes have grown too big and are too many. Taking away the fiscal independence in the expenditure field.
- If these resources are transferred to the states as an additional share in tax revenue or in the form of Blanket Grants to choose state specific schemes from the menu of Centrally Sponsored Schemes, with a free decision to spend as much money on a particular scheme, to bring maximum benefit to the state and its people. The Centre could monitor the progress and popularity of the scheme and accordingly allocate the next instalment of the grant.
- At least the central funds will be used in a beneficial manner leading to the desired results, all encompassing upliftment and progress in the country. Instead of wastage and pilferage of central funds leading to progressive states being disadvantaged to backward state in grant allocation and utilization of central funds.
- My last and final point I want to stress upon is the request for debt restructuring for the state of Punjab.
Till 1982 Punjab was revenue surplus. Its debt burden was only 26% of GSDP (Gross State Domestic Product). We then went through a long period of terrorism and militancy .
The long years of turmoil saw 22,000 innocent lives being lost besides the large number of security forces who also suffered.
The 9-Years long years of President’s Rule during militancy was the longest spell of Presidents rule in any state besides J&K.
- Under the President rule the Central Government ran Punjab Administration with a policy of high expenditure and no raise in taxes.
- They plugged the huge deficit gap by taking special term loans from the centre. The special term loan received during the Presidents rule was 5800 crores.
From there onwards, the state was put on the trajectory of spiralling debt, as year after year the interest on the loan kept multiplying due to the unsustainability of the debt and no raise in the state taxes.
- As a result state that was revenue surplus with a debt burden of 26% in before Presidents rule, 9 years later this debt had risen to 40% of GSDP.
Today although in last 5 years, our government has worked very hard to raise revenue and we have brought down the debt to GSDP ratio, but still this debt has multiplied and reached a whopping 77,585 crores. Just the interest liability of this debt is 6530 crores.
The total taxes the state collects is approx 31527 crores. we receive another 4600 crores as our share of central taxes and against centrally sponsored scheme’s.
Now if we look at our expenditure against
this budget is 35405 crore, out of which salary for employees is Rs.12,000 crore, Pension is Rs.6000 crores, and our plan outlay is 11500 crores.
- And this interest multiplies into a bigger figure with each passing year pulling us further into a vicious debt trap.
-To pay for all our other expenses, each year we are forced to borrow an additional amount from the centre to sustain ourselves.
- As to the debt interest multiplies further each year, our borrowing too consequentially increases each year.
- This debt trap leaves the state with no balance funds for any kind of further developmental schemes. No money to hire the thousands of teachers, doctors, or police personnel to needed to provide better governance facilities nor any funds to upgrade schools, hospitals and roads, leave alone build new ones.
I would humbly request that since the state is not in any position whatsoever to repay the debt accumulated debt.
- We request a waiver of the loan or at least to stop the interests and restructure the debt.
- Thus giving the state a chance to put back its crippled economy into some semblance of order before it collapses under the burden of its own debt. Which will not only but totally throw the entire food security of the country out of gear but also play havoc in a border state leaving it vulnerable once again to cross-border terrorism.
- I trust the Finance Minister will take the bold futuristic decisions our people expect of him. And had this great nation towards peace and prosperity for all. And I especially request him to pay more allocation to that neglected sector of the population that constitutes 50% of us and pays equal contribution to the central tax pool.
- Though as much women do not form part of this august House because men are more in numbers here, and this government still has to bring about Women Reservations Bill, may be it is only because of that All Women Related issues and programmes take a back-seat.
- If you look at the geneder budgeting the Hon’ble Finance Minister has done out of this huge budget of 14 lakh crores is merely Rs.22822 crores for 100% women specific programmes, and I need not say that it is dismally low and it is in no way going to improve the conditions of the gender.
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MINISTER FOR TRANPARENCY IN SEED DISTRIBUTION
Chandigarh March 27: Jathedar Tota Singh, Agriculture Minister Punjab has asked the officers of the department to ensure quality seeds and adequate agriculture inputs to the farmers in order to produce first-rate quality of food grains. He has asked the officers to ensure absolute transparency in the seed distribution system. The Minister was addressing the first state level meeting of the officers of the Agriculture Department here today.
Taking stock of the agriculture scenario in general and crop pattern in particular, Jathedar Tota Singh said that Punjab has been contributing about 50% of wheat and 35% of rice procured by the GOI for food security of the country since last four decades. He also said that Punjab, being the Agrarian state has always been ahead of other states in matter of crop production and procurement. As a consequence of the initiatives taken by the state government, the State has been conferred with the first “Krishi Karman Award” for producing record 278.67 Lakh MT of food grains for the year 2010-11.
Fully aware of the difficulties being faced by the farming community in the state, the Punjab Government has reinstated free power supply for tube wells of the farmers. Apart from this compensation for loss due to natural calamities has been enhanced from Rs. 2000 to Rs. 5000 per acre. The Minister assured the farmers that the required quantity of Urea and DAP for Paddy has already there in the stock and there would be no shortage in the coming days.
Expressing concern over the central Government’s policies in deciding the frequent rise in the prices of inputs required for agriculture such as diesel, fertilizers as well as the MSP of the food grains putting the farmers of the state under undue financial stress, the Minister has urged the GOI to announce a special financial package for sustainability of agriculture in Punjab. He, however, said that Punjab fully endorsed Dr. Swaminathan’s report that MSP should provide the farmers a margin of 50% over the cost of production.
The Minister also said that the state Govt. was also apprehensive about the subsidy policy on fertilizers as GOI has changed it to Nutrient Based as a result of which the prices of all the fertilizers have shot-up and these are beyond the reach of the farmers. If these policies are not rolled back in favor of farmers of the state, the future Food Security of the country would be under great threat.
Adding further, the Minister said that the state has set-up Agriculture Machinery Service Centers in order to provide Modern Agriculture Machinery on custom hiring basis. This would reduce the extra expenditure on agriculture machinery as the farmers of the State can hire the required machinery from these centers at reasonable rent to minimize the cost of production.
Mr. G.S. Sandhu Financial Commissioner Development and Mr. M.S. Sandhu Director Agriculture also addressed the meeting.
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ETT PAPER OF PHYSICAL EDUCATION POSTPONED
CHANDIGARH, MARCH 27: The Punjab Government has postponed the physical education reappear examination of ETT for the 3rd semester of 2009-11 and 3rd semester of 2010-12 session that was scheduled for March 28. Besides this the practical examination of ETT session 2011-13 has also been postponed.
The official spokesman said that the Physical Education exam scheduled for March 28, would now be held on April 17 and practical examination would be now held on March 29, 2012.
No.PR-12/54
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BIKANER CANAL REMAIN CLOSED FOR 40 DAYS
Chandigarh, March 27:-
Keeping in view the crops and weather conditions, Irrigation Department Punjab has issued a notification to close the Bikaner canal from 01-04-2012 to 10-05-2012 (both days inclusive) for 40 days due to carrying of balance work of lining of Gang Canal feeder.
No.PR-12/52
RAKESH SINGH TAKES OVER AS CHIEF SECRETARY PUNJAB
· MR. S.C.AGRAWAL GIVEN WARM SEND OFF
S.C. AGRAWAL SWORN-IN AS CHIEF COMMISSIONER OF PUNJAB RIGHT TO SERVICE COMMISSION
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BHAI BALWANT SINGH RAJOANA's ISSUE
-- In view of these circumstances, it is clear that Bhai Balwant Singh Rajoana cannot be hanged.
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I would personally call on Hon’ble President Smt. Pratibha Patil and Hon’ble Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh to seek clemency for Bhai Balwant Singh Rajoana.
STATEMENT OF PUNJAB CHIEF MINISTER MR. PARKASH SINGH BADAL REGARDING THE CASE OF BHAI BALWANT SINGH RAJOANA ON THE FLOOR OF HOUSE IN PUNJAB VIDHAN SABHA ON 26.03.2012
Hon’ble Speaker Sahib,
I deem it mandatory on my part to bring all the facts relating to the most important issue of peace and communal harmony before the people of Punjab through the respectable members in this august House. Before I dwell on the psychological, social and political aspects of this issue, I want to share the details and legal facts related to the case of Bhai Balwant Singh Rajoana in the House.
Mr. Speaker, the Hon’ble Additional Session Judge Chandigarh Court issued warrants to the Superintendent, Central Jail Patiala for the execution of death sentence to Bhai Balwant Singh. Keeping in view the important legal issues involved in the case the Jail Superintendent expressed his inability to execute the warrants and returned in original to the Hon’ble Court.
Crux of important observations made by the officer has been reproduced as under:-
That it is the legal and constitutional duty of every officer including the Superintendent of Jail to ensure the procedure established by the law is meticulously followed before executing the death sentence and carefully examine all the legal and constitutional aspects instead of executing the warrant callously. It is also obligatory on the part of the officer to ensure that there is not any inherent weakness or negligence from the angle of legal, constitution and procedural laws. Besides, ensuring the execution of warrant may not result in such situation from which the possible damage/loss, could not be compensated in future. Since this issue pertains to Human Right - Right to Life, one of the most important rights enshrined in the Constitution, therefore, the duty of the concerned jail superintendent becomes far more significant in this context.
Jail Superintendent is duty bound to satisfy him that no appeal for relief by any co-accused in such case was under consideration before any Court.
After looking into the all the legal aspects of the case minutely, the Jail Superintendent of Central Jail Patiala is of the view that since this case had many legal and constitutional shortcomings, loopholes and flaws which made the execution of the Court orders impossible within the ambit of law.
Complying the law and regulations, the concerned Jail Superintendent had returned the warrant to the Court.
The appeal of co-accused Lakhwinder Singh @ Lakha titled as Lakhwinder Singh @ Lakha Vs. State Through CBI Appeal Criminal No. 1464 of 2011 is pending in the Hon’ble Supreme Court of India.
Hon’ble Supreme Court of India has in several judgments extended the benefit of acquittal or lesser sentence to the other co-accused although they had not filed an appeal.
It is necessary to await the outcome of the matter in the Hon’ble Supreme Court of India before executing the death warrant of Balwant Singh Rajoana.
In view of the old cases and rules it is amply clear that Bhai Balwant Singh Rajoana could also get the same relief to be given to other accused in this case, whether he (Rajoana) has not filled any appeal. A decision to grant punishment or not to the accused is to be taken by the Court not by the accused, in case punishment has to be given which one was suitable for him. If some error/omission is committed in such case then it would be impossible to rectify the same because no one could give life again to a person.
This case is not within the jurisdiction of Punjab.
In this case, Jail Superintendent of Patiala citing the detailed shortcomings and loopholes in other such cases has brought in the notice of the Court. The copy of the letter is placed on the table of the august House.
I also deem it proper to mention here the appeal made by the family members of Late Sardar Beant Singh to adopt a humane and positive approach over this issue for maintaining an atmosphere of peace, unity and communal harmony in Punjab at all costs.
Punjab Pradesh Congress Committee President Capt. Amarinder Singh has also issued a statement to extend support to the Punjab government, if it files an appeal or petition to the President of India for commutation of punishment of Bhai Balwant Singh Rajoana.
A copy of the special petition filled by the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee to the Hon’ble President of India seeking clemency for Bhai Balwant Singh Rajoana has been received. Advocate General Punjab has also given his opinion that no action could be initiated against Bhai Rajoana till the President decides the petition.
In view of these circumstances, it is clear that Bhai Balwant Singh Rajoana cannot be hanged.
It is our bounden duty to maintain the hard earned peace, communal harmony and amity in Punjab and country achieved after countless sacrifices besides making a firm resolve to further strengthen the social fabric of communal harmony and peace for our coming generations. None of our step should undermine the high and pious ideals of our society.
Mr. Speaker, Punjab government is taking all possible legal and constitutional steps for seeking clemency for Bhai Rajoana in the light of all these important and sensitive facts. According to eminent jurists to seek clemency in this case is within the ambit of law and constitution and several old cases, judgments and precedents are also available.
The Punjab government has decided to take further initiative on this issue in view of the aforementioned facts. I would personally call on Hon’ble President Smt. Pratibha Patil and Hon’ble Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh to seek clemency for Bhai Balwant Singh Rajoana.
Other legal efforts would also continue simultaneously along with it.
I appeal to all the Punjabis and countrymen to safeguard the sacred and lofty ideals of peace and amity at all costs. Mr. Speaker, this issue is very sensitive and historic. Our approach would not only impact the present but the future generations also. History is eying on all of us that what sort of Punjab we will give to our coming generations in legacy.
I again appeal to all the countrymen, Punjabis, political parties and organizations to strengthen the ethos of peace and amity in Punjab and I assure that peace, law & order and communal harmony would be maintained in the state at all costs.
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Capt Amarinder asks district presidents to gear up for corporation elections
CHANDIGARH, March 26:
Punjab Pradesh Congress Committee President Capt Amarinder Singh today asked the district presidents from across the state to gear up for the corporation elections which might be announced anytime now. He also assured them that the indiscipline in the party will be firmly dealt with.
Barring Harpratap Ajnala (Amritsar Rural), who was busy with the marriage ceremony of his son and Ms Jagdarsharan Kaur, Moga who could not attend the meeting for personal reasons, all the 25 district presidents reposed their faith unanimously in Capt Amarinder’s leadership saying only he could provide good leadership to the party and only he could boost the morale of the party workers at this stage.
Presiding over the meeting of the district presidents which was convened today to take stock of the electoral results, Capt Amarinder maintained that the party may not have been able to form the government, but still it polled the largest number of votes, more than any other party including the Shiromani Akali Dal. He said, the Congress cadre at the grass-roots was quite strong and it only needed the inspiration.
He asked the district presidents to prepare for the corporation and the panchayat elections saying these might be announced anytime now. “I have learnt that the government might pre-pone these elections so we better be prepared”, he told them, while announcing that he will be moving around all the districts.
Responding to the demand of the district presidents that the indiscipline which was witnessed recently in the aftermath of the election results must be firmly dealt with, he said, he as well as the party high command had already taken serious note of it. He reiterated that the party leaders were welcome to air their grievances in the party forum whether with him or the high command but they are not allowed to go public.
Earlier the district presidents listed various factors for the election outcome. They were unanimous in their opinion that the party must firmly act against all those who worked against the official party candidates during the elections. Sukhjinder Randhawa from Gurdashpur, Pawan Dewan from Ludhiana, Arun Walia from Jallandhar Urban made a strong case for stern action against not only the rebels who are already expelled but all those who ganged up and worked against the party candidates.
To this Capt Amarinder said, he was already seized of the matter. He said, all those expelled will not be taken back and strong action will be taken against each and every leader who worked against the official candidates.
Those present at the meeting included Jugal Kishore Sharma (Amritsar Urban), Kuldeep Kumar Nanda (Hoshiarpur), Satvir Singh (Nawashahar), Prem Kishen Puri (Patiala Urban), Harjit Parmar (Kapurthala), Milkiat Singh Dakha (Ludhiana Rural), Pawan Dewan (Ludhiana Urban), Sukhbinder Saini (Ropar), Harinder Singh Bhambri (Fatehgarh Sahib), Hardayal Kambhoj (Patiala Rural), Surinder Gupta (Faridkot), Subash Grover (Sangrur), Jagsir Singh Gagowal (Mansa), Ashok Kumar (Bathinda Urban), Narinder Bhaleria (Bathinda Rural), Anoop Singh (Ferozepur), Gurdas Girdhar (Muktsar), Jagjit Singh Dhaula (Barnala), Dr Dharmapal Agnihotri (Tarn Taran), Arun Walia (Jallandhar Urban), Kanwarjit Singh Lalli (Jallandhar Rural), Davinder Singh Darshi (Pathankot) and Sukhjinder Randhawa (Gurdaspur).
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CENTRE HAS MISMANAGED DEVOLUTION OF TAXES : DR. CHEEMA
· FAILED IN ENSURING MACROECONOMIC STABILY
· PLAN APPROVAL BY PLANING COMMISSION NOT ACCORDING TO FEDERAL STRUCTURE
Chandigarh, March 26 :
The Shiromani Akali Dal has charged the centre with miserably failing in management of devolution of taxes and its duty to ensure the macroeconomic stability.
Talking part in the deliberations on motion of thanks on the Govermnor’s address in Vidhan Sabha today party Secretary and Spokesman and MLA from Roopnagar Dr. Daljit Singh Cheema said that successive Centre governments tried to encroached upon the rights of the states making the states beggars in front of it. He said that Centre was keeping 68 percent of the total taxes collected from the states for itself while reimbursing the 32 percent share to states.
He further said that it was a curse that even while disbursing this amount states like Punjab who have successfully enhanced their incomes by administrative reforms and good governance were being ignored and poor performers are rewarded.
Dr. Cheema said that although Finance Commission was an autonomous body, majority of decisions are taken by Planning Commission under the direct political influence of the Centre government. He said that states are forced to get their annul plans approved by the Planning Commission which is against the spirit of the federal structure enshrined in the constitution.
The SAD MLA said that in 1950-60s, 80 percent of the state plan was assisted by the Centre under plan assistance but today it is a different scenario in which Centre government thrusts upon implementation of Central schemes irrespective of the fact that the particular scheme is fit for the state or not.
Favoring a clear division of subjects among the centre and states, Dr. Cheema said that if Centre wants to evolve any scheme it should be according the list of the subjects in Union list whereas in reality it was resorting to the opposite. Citing examples he said that agriculture is a subject of the state list by Centre has 51 schemes concerning the agriculture department and states are forced to implement them. Similar is the case with law and order in which Centre regularly interferes and recently tried to enact law on NCTC. He said that while framing these rules militancy is described as a national problem but when it comes the case of Punjab, it was denied the monetary help to tackle the problem.
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MOU SIGNED FOR SEETING UP INDUSTRIAL UNIT WORTH 1485 CRORE
INDUSTRY MINISTER ANIL JOSHI ALSO HANDED OVER LOI WORTH RS. 1007.04 CRORE
SAYS, INDUSTRIALIST WOULD GET ALL CLEARANCE IN ONE GO THROUGH SINGLE WINDOW SYSTEM
CHANDIGARH, MARCH 26, 2012
The industry in Punjab will flourish by leaps and bounds with Punjab emerging as No. 1 industrial state in the whole country. It is welcome sign for the development of industry in Punjab that in its neighboring state Himachal Pradesh the special incentives given to the industry has been abolished, whereas on the other hand the main ingredient to boost up the industry, power, will soon be surplus in the State of Punjab. It was disclosed by Mr. Anil Joshi, Minister for Industry and Commerce, Punjab after signing the MoU (Memorandum of Understanding) with M/s SEL Textile Ltd. for setting up a Mega Project for manufacturing of denim fabric and garments on 350 acre of land at Sikh Wala Road, Village Punjaba, Tehsil Lambi, District Muktsar with investment of Rs. 1485 crore.
Mr. Joshi said that the setting up of this unit will provide direct and indirect employment to 10,000 and 50,000 persons, respectively. Besides this, Letter of Intents to six promoters were also handed over by the Minister namely M/s Nectar Life Science, District Mohali with an estimated cost of Rs.200 crore, M/s Vardhman Special Steel, Ludhiana (estimated cost Rs.134.97 crore), M/s Sportking, District Bathinda (estimated cost Rs.303 crore), M/s Supreme Tex Mart, District Ludhian (estimated cost Rs.103.25 crore), M/s Satluj Spintex, District Mansa (estimated cost Rs.121 crore) and M/s Sharmanji Textile, District Ludhiana with an estimated cost of Rs.144.82 crore. Minister said that industrialist would now face no difficulty in getting clearances because the govt. is soon establishing the Single Window System, wherein all the formalities for setting up a new industrial unit would be given in one go.
Mr. A.R. Talwar, Principal Secretary, Industry and Mr. S.S. bains, Director, Industry were also present at the occasion.
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SHAGUN SCHEEM TO BE ONLINE: RANIKE
· CONSTRUCTION OF 200 NEW ANIMAL DISPENSARY IN RURAL AREAS
Chandigarh, March 26:
The Punjab Government has chalked out a comprehensive plan for the upliftment and welfare of the unprivileged sections of SC/BC communities. The schemes framed for the overall development of these communities will be implemented in scheduled time especially the Shagun to the daughters of the downtrodden families will be provided for their comfort by making the Shgun Scheme online. For the upkeep of livestock, 200 new animal dispensaries will be constricted in the rural area. In the next five year a new target in milk productivity will be achieved by extracting 12 liter milk each from 2 lack buffalos.
It was disclosed by Mr. Gulzar Singh Ranike Minister for SC/BC welfare and animal husbandry while assuming the charge of his department. Following the religious traditions the path of Shri Sukhmani Sahib was solemnized. Mr. Ranike sought the blessing of Shri Guru Granth Sahib before assuming the charge.
Prominent amongst other present at the occasion were Rural Development Minister Mr. Surjit Singh Rakhra. Mr. Baljit Singh Jalalusma and Mr. Darshan Singh Kotfattah (Both MLAs). District President of SAD (S.C. wing) Gurdaspur Mr. Lakhwinder Singh Ghuman, District President of SAD (S.C. wing) Patiala Mr. Jaspal Singh Kalian.
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RAKESH SINGH TAKES OVER AS CHIEF SECRETARY PUNJAB
· MR. S.C.AGRAWAL GIVEN WARM SEND OFF
Chandigarh March 26:
Mr. Rakesh Singh, a 1978 batch IAS officer, today took over the charge of Chief Secretary Punjab from Mr. S.C.Agrawal, IAS, who demitted office to take oath of Chief Commissioner of Right to Service Commission Punjab.
In a brief function Mr. Rakesh Singh signed the charge report in the office of Chief Secretary Punjab as outgoing Chief Secretary Mr. S.C.Agrawal welcomed him for new assignment.
Mr. Rakesh Singh who was serving on deputation with Union Government as Additional Secretary Finance and was appointed Chief Secretary Punjab on 14th March, has a rich varied experience on different assignments. He has served in Punjab as MD Punjab Khand Udyog, DC Ferozepur, Additional Secretary Personnel, MD CITCO, MD Sugarfed, MD Punjab Agro, MD PACL, MD PSIEC, Director Food and Civil Supplies, Secretary Higher Education, MD Punjab Electronic Corporation, Finance Secretary UT, MD PSIDC, Secretary Housing and Urban Development. Mr. Rakesh Singh has come to Punjab after 9 years deputation with Union Government, where he has worked on different assignments mainly in Union Finance Ministry.
Later in a function organized by different employees associations of state and Punjab Civil Secretariat, a warm send-off was given to outgoing Chief Secretary Mr. S.C. Aggarwal as various association leaders recalled his services.
Speaking on the occasion Mr. S.C. Agrawal welcomed new Chief Secretary Mr. Rakesh Singh to a challenging assignment. Mr. Rakesh Singh speaking on the occasion sought the cooperation of all employees to fulfill the development agenda of Punjab Government.
Later Mr. Rakesh Singh held a meeting with all Administrative Secretaries of the state.
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WELFARE OF FAMILIES OF EX-SERVICEMEN IS IN OUR PRIORITY LIST: BIBI JAGIR KAUR
CHANDIGARH, MARCH 26:
The Punjab government is committed to the welfare of Ex-servicemen, war widows and their dependents and would ensure that they will not get any problem in earning their livelihood. It was disclosed by Bibi Jagir Kaur, Minister for Defence Services Welfare, Punjab while presiding over a meeting of the five newly appointed officers of Ex-servicemen body. She said that the government would also ensure that the families of defence personal would not face any difficulty in getting their work done in the govt. offices.
Minister said that ex-servicemen, war widows and their dependents were facing problems in the in the district level offices due to scarcity of officers. She said that the department is shortly recruiting new officers at the district level so that the day to day work could not suffer. She said that the recruitment process of six another officers is on the anvil.
Minister said that the Punjab Government is dedicated for the rehabilitatation of the families of ex-servicemen. The prominent amongst others present included Mr. C. Raul, Principal Secretary, Mr. Manjeet Singh, Brigadier (Retired), Director Defence Welfare and Mr. Gurinderjeet Singh Gill, Lt. Colonel (Retd.), Mr. Rajwant Singh, Wing Commander (Retd.), Mr. Sukhjeet Singh Dhaliwal, Lt. Colonel (Retd.), Mr. S.S. Sangha, Colonel (Retd.) and Mr. Amarveer Singh Chahal, Colonel (Retd.) (all newly appointed officers).
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ROTATIONAL IRRIGATION PROGRAMME FOR RABI SEASON ANNOUNCED
CHANDIGARH, MARCH 26:
The Irrigation Department, Punjab has announced the Rotational Programme for irrigation for the Rabi Season through Canal water from 29-03-12 to 05-04-2012. The channels of Sirhind Canal System would run on the priority basis from Bathinda Branch, Bist Doab, Sidhwan Branch, Patiala feeder and Abohar Branch respectively.
Disclosing this here today a spokesman of the irrigation department said that direct distributaries of Bhakra Main Line in group 'A' being in the channels of first preference will run to their indent and balance water supplies available will be utilized in Ghaggar Branch and its off taking channels i.e Ghaggar Branch and Patiala Minor in Group 'B' respectively.
The spokesman further said that all the direct distributaries of Sirhind Feeder in group 'A' being in the First preference will run to their indent and balance water supplies available would be utilised in Abohar Branch off-taking from Sirhind Feeder and its distributaries/Minors in Group 'B'.
The spokesman also said that the channels off taking from upper Bari Doab Canal i.e. Lahore Branch with its distributaries being in the channels of first preference would run to their indent and balance water supplies available would be utilized in Main Branch Lower, Kasur Branch Lower, Sabraon Branch with their distributaries respectively.
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Baba Ramdev with Mr Parkash Singh Badal
Congress endorses S Beant Singh family’s stand for commutation of death sentence of Rajoan.....CLICK
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The Shiromani Akali Dal Core Committee, today asked the Punjab government to take all possible legal and other steps to secure clemency for Bhai Balwant Singh Rajoana.
Chandigarh March 25 –
The Core Committee fully endorsed the steps taken by the Punjab government in this regard so far. The Core Committee took note of the fact that the warrants of execution against Bhai Rajoana had been returned since it was legally not possible to execute them.
The Committee appreciated the fact that the Punjab government had already taken a decision not to execute the death warrant against Bhai Rajoana, and fully backed the efforts being taken by the government to secure clemency for him. .
The Core Committee also asked the SGPC to immediately file a clemency appeal for Bhai Rajoana before the President of India
At an emergency meeting convened and chaired by the SAD president Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal, the Core Committee said that the party was prepared to “go to any extent to secure clemency for Bhai Rajoana so that the hard earned atmosphere of peace and communal harmony in the state is not disturbed.”
The Chief Minister, who was present at the meeting, disclosed that he would make a special statement on the subject on the floor of the Punjab Vidhan Sabha tomorrow.
The Core Committee appealed to all political parties, organizations, institutions and citizens of the country to extend support for the cause of clemency for Bhai Rajoana to maintain peace and communal harmony in the state and the country.
others who attended today meeting included S. Ranjit Singh Brahmpura, Jathedar Tota Singh, Jathedar Avtar Singh, S. Charanjit Singh Atwal, S. Balwant Singh Ramoowalia, S. Balwinder Singh Bhunder, S. Nirmal Singh Kahlon, S. Maheshinder Singh Grewal, Prof. Prem Singh Chandumajra, S. Janmeja Singh Sekhon, S. Sewa Singh Sekhwan, Dr. Daljit Singh Cheema and Mr. Harcharan Singh Bains.
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SUKHBIR SINGH BADAL CALLS EMERGENCY MEET OF CORE COMMITTEE
Chandigarh, March 24 : Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal President of the Shiromani Akali Dal has called an emergency meeting of the core committee of the party to discuss the fresh directive of the Jathedar Sahib of Sri Akal Takht Sahib.
Disclosing this in a statement released from the party head office here today, party Secretary and Spokesman Dr. Daljit Singh Cheema said that party Patron and Chief Minister S. Parkash Singh Badal and Shiromani Gurdwara Prabhandak Committeee President Jathedar Avtar Singh would also attend this meeting which will be held on 25th March at 6.00 pm in Chandigarh.
He further said that the committee would deliberate upon the fresh directive of Jathedar Sahib Sri Akal Takht Sahib pertaining to case of Balwant Singh Rajoana.
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Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal inaugurates the cancer cure centre at Rajindara Hospital Patiala on 24-3-2012
Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal interacting with the medical fraternity at Govt Medical College patiala. Bhagat Chunni Lal Medical Education and Research, Local Govt. Minister, Punjab and Mr Surjit Singh Rakhra, Rural Development and Panchayats Minister also seen in the picture
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BADAL INAUGURATES CANCER CURE CENTER AT RAJINDRA HOSPITAL
ALL POSSIBLE LEGAL STEPS WOULD BE INITIATED REGARDING RAJOANA’S CASE-BADAL
PATIALA MARCH 24:
The Punjab Government would develop Rajindra Hospital as a state-of-the-art medical institution in the region and spent Rs. 150 crore in next two years to update the entire equipment and the existing infrastructure in addition to develop it as advanced diagnostic center and super specialty hospital.
An announcement to this effect was made by Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal here today while inaugurating a cancer cure center equipped with a Simulator installed at a cost of Rs. 3 crore for the treatment of dreaded cancer and Rs. 28 lac Mammography machine for earlier detection of breast cancer in females.
Mr. Badal along with Medical Education & Research Minister Bhagat Chunni Lal reviewed the functioning of the institution and took a round of the hospital to know even minute difficulties being faced by the patients and the staff. Expressing concern over the present status of the health services he announced that in future NRI student admission charges and user charges being received at RajindraHospital would be spent entirely on the development of theGovernment Medical College and its hospital.
During an interactive session with the medical fraternity the Chief Minister directed Secretary Medical Education and Research Mrs. Anjali Bhawra and Government Medical College Principal Dr. KD Singh to left no stone unturned for developing Rajindra Hospital as a state-of-the-art health institution of Punjab. He further asked to prepare a comprehensive plan for the overall development of the institution.
The Chief Minister also approved to constitute two committees namely Hospital Affairs committee and Academic Affairs Committee for the smooth functioning of the institute and authorised these committees to take any decision to grant approval for any donation based project for the hospital.
Mr. Badal reiterated the firm commitment of SAD-BJP government to keep marching ahead for strengthening the health care infrastructure in Punjab to provide world class health care facilities in the urban as well as rural sectors of the state through government hospitals. Mr. Badal also called upon the entire medical fraternity in the state to work with full devotion and dedication to provide best health care treatment to the public especially to the poor. He assured that government would strengthen the infrastructure more wherever it needed. Government had launched an inclusive programme to provide effective treatment based on the contemporary scientific developments world over for curing cancer patients in the state.
Later, replying a question of the media persons about seeking clemency for Rajoana, Mr. Badal said that he being a humble Sikh of Guru Sahib, had great faith and respect for Sri Akal Takht Sahib and government would initiate all possible legal steps regarding Rajoana’s case. Earlier also they had been doing the same, added Mr. Badal. Mr. Badal appealed the people of Punjab to maintain hard earned peace and communal harmony in the state.
Prominent amongst those who were present on the occasion included, Rural Development and Panchayat Minister Mr. Surjit Singh Rakhra, Chairman Board of Governance of Indian Medical Council Dr. KK Talwar, Special Principal secretary to the Chief minister Mr. KJS Cheema, VC Baba Farid University of Health Science Dr. SS Gill, Principal Secretary Finance and Planning Mr. Satish Chandra, Director Medical Research and Education Dr. Jai Kishan and Principal Government dental College Dr. Vipan Bharti.
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Kisan Morcha organize a Rail Roko agitation on April 3, demanding Rs 500 bonus per quintal on wheat.....Grewal Sukhminderpal ......READ
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OLD AGE PENSION AND OTHER FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE TO BE DISBURSED THROUGH EBT SYSTEM
• NOD TO THE POLICY FOR SETTING OF INSTITUTES PROVIDING DIPLOMA IN ETT
• SERVICE SELECTION CENTRE (NORTH) TO COME UP AT RUPNAGAR
• CABINET APPROVES SUPPLEMENTARY GRANTS FOR 2011-12 AND VOTE ON
ACCOUNT FOR 2012-13 TO BE PRESENTED IN PUNJAB VIDHAN SABHA ON MARCH 28
• RARE CABINET KUDOS FOR OUTGOING CHIEF SECRETARY SC AGRAWAL
CHANDIGARH, MARCH 24:
In a landmark decision, the Cabinet approved to disburse old age pension and other financial assistance under various social security schemes to the eligible beneficiaries of rural and urban areas through Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) system.
A decision to this effect was taken here at a meeting of the Cabinet chaired by Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal here at Chief Minister’s Office this morning.
Disclosing this here today a spokesperson of the Punjab government said that the Cabinet also issued directions to the Welfare Department to device a methodology so that Shagun for the marriage of daughters of SCs, BCs, Christians, economically weaker sections besides daughters of the widows and divorcees must reach on or before the wedding day.
The Cabinet also gave nod to the policy for setting of Institutes Providing Diploma in Elementary Education (ETT) and approved a 6-members committee under the chairmanship of Director General School Education (DGSE) for the implementation of the said policy. This decision would now pave away for affiliation of private Un-Aided Self financed ETT Colleges as earlier there was no such provision to affiliate these colleges by the SCERT, besides ensuring fair and transparent admissions for ETT aspirants in these affiliated Institutes.
The Cabinet also approved restructuring of the Housing & Urban Development to make it far more efficient, result-oriented and cost effective so that illegal and haphazard growth of unauthorized colonies was not permitted and planned Housing & Urban Development takes place in the state, restructuring of the Housing & Urban Development was approved whereby 173 new posts were created and 190 non-functional abolished, enforcement, planning and regulatory wings have been created in order to ensure balanced and planned urban development across the state.
The Punjab Cabinet also approved to hand over the possession of 200 acres of land of the State Agriculture Department at Birla Farm, Rupnagar to the Army Authorities free of cost for establishing Service Selection Centre (North). It may be recalled GOC-in-C (West) had mooted a proposal to set up this Centre for the recruitment of officers in the Indian Army which would further give a fillip to the enormous employment opportunities for the youth in the state.
The Cabinet also approved supplementary grants for the year 2011-12 to be presented before the state assembly on March 28, 2012.The Cabinet also cleared the proposal for seeking Vote on Account for 2012-13 to be presented before the Punjab Vidhan Sabha on March 28, 2012.
In order to expedite Infrastructure projects and to cope up with the shortage of Junior Engineers (JE’s) in PWD (B&R), the Cabinet approved to take out 272 posts of JE’s from the purview of Punjab State Subordinate Services Selection Board. These JE’s would be recruited immediately by the Department in a transparent and fair manner so that the shortage of technical staff at cutting edge was taken care of.
The Cabinet also gave approval to fill 50 vacant posts of group C&D expeditiously on regular basis in NCC Academy (Boys), Rupnagar, NCC Academy (Girls), Malout, 2 Punjab R&V Squadron NCC Ghuda and 3 Punjab Naval Unit NCC, Bathinda directly by the State NCC Directorate after taking these posts out of the purview of Punjab State Subordinate Services Selection Board.
The Cabinet also unanimously passed a resolution to place on record its “immense appreciation of the outstanding services rendered by the outgoing Chief Secretary Mr. SC Agrawal who has sought voluntary retirement to join the new assignment as Chief Commissioner of the Punjab Right to Service Commission”. The Cabinet described him as the most efficient and able administrator. The Cabinet also applauded valuable inputs given by Mr. Agrawal from time to time in various Cabinet meetings and wished him all success for the new assignment.
The Cabinet also gave approval to the Group ‘A’ and ‘B’ Service Rules of Punjab Public Service Commission (PPCS) for regulating the recruitment of persons and the conditions of service of persons appointed to PPSC Group ‘A’ and ‘B’ services. These rules would be known as Punjab Public Service Commission Group ‘A’ Services Rules 2010 and Punjab Public Service Commission Group ‘B’ Services Rules 2010.
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Punjab Government suspended Tehsildar
Chandigarh, March 23:
The Punjab Government today suspended Mr. Rajesh Kumar Sharma Tehsildar posted at Amritsar -2 with immediate effect.
According to an official spokesman the headquarter of Mr. Sharma would be in the office of Commissioner of Faridkot Division during the period of suspension.
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WORK FOR CONSTRUCTING A STATE OF ART MEMORIAL FOR DEPICTING THE ROLE PLAYED BY PUNJABIS IN THE FREEDOM STRUGGLE OF COUNTRY TO START SOON- BADAL
CM PAYS HOMAGE TO SHAHEED-E-AAZAM BHAGAT SINGH, RAJGURU AND SUKHDEV
DUE TO WRONG POLICIES OF CONGRESS, DREAMS OF MARTYRS HAVE REMAINED UNFULFILLED- BADAL
Khatkarkalan (Shaheed Bhagat Singh Nagar), March 23-
Punjab Chief Minister Mr Parkash Singh Badal today announced that the work for constructing a state of art memorial for depicting the role played by Punjabis in the freedom struggle of country would be soon started in the Doaba region of the state.
Addressing a mammoth gathering in a state level function organised here today to mark the martyrdom day of Shaheed-e-Aazam Sardar Bhagat Singh, Rajguru and Sukhdev, the Chief Minister said that the memorial to be constructed on the pattern of Virasat-e-Khalsa heritage centre constructed at Sri Anandpur Sahib would showcase the rich contribution of Punjabis in India's freedom movement in a new light. He said that the sole motive of erecting this memorial which is to be constructed on about 25 acres of land was to remind the people about the rich legacy of the sacrifices made by the state in the freedom struggle of country. Mr Badal said that he had already passed on the necessary directions to the Deputy Commissioners (DC) for selecting an appropriate site of land on which this memorial is to be constructed.
Lauding the contribution of state in Indian Independence movement the Chief Minister said that it was a matter of fact that Punjab was having a rich treasure in form of martyrs who had made selfless contribution for attaining the independence for the country. He said that we should feel proud on the fact that despite of having a population of only 2.5% in the country Punjab constitutes 80% of the total number of the martyrs of the freedom struggle. However Mr Badal said that the need of hour is that the message and contribution of martyrs of state must be disseminated to the people so that they could be made aware about the rich tradition of sacrifices set by their ancestors. "The memorial to be constructed in the Doaba region would fulfil this motive of awakening the people" he added.
Making a scathing attack on the Congress party the Chief Minister said that due to the wrong policies of this party, which had mostly remained in power ever since country attained independence, the dreams of martyrs remained unfulfilled. Mr Badal said that though the martyrs had laid down their life for ensuring the betterment of people, during their own rule the situation is totally opposite as the countrymen are facing a large number of problems. He said that it is the irony of the fate that despite of having a bounty of natural resources the country remained poor due to the wrong policies of successive centre governments formed by the Congress party, thus resulting in a large number of social and economic maladies like unemployment, poverty, inflation, illiteracy and corruption in the country. The Chief Minister said that despite of the fact that Punjabis have made immense contribution in the freedom struggle and were uprooted due to the partition of country, the Congress governments have meted out a discriminatory treatment with the state by unnecessarily interfering in the social, economic, political and even the religious matters of the state.
Expressing gratitude of the people of the state for giving a historic mandate to the SAD-BJP alliance in recently concluded state assembly polls the Chief Minister said that he has no words to thank the people of state. Mr Badal said that the mandate was a clear message that the people of state have accepted the agenda of peace, communal harmony and all round development of the state as propagated by the alliance by rejecting the agenda of violence and hatred as propagated by the Congress leadership. He vowed that their government would leave no stone unturned towards ensuring that all the promises made by them in the election manifesto are fulfilled at the earliest.
Earlier the Chief Minster paid homage to the martyrs by laying down wreaths at the memorial constructed here.
Prominent amongst those present on the occasion included Bhagat Chuni Lal and Mr Sarwan Singh Phillaur (both Cabinet Ministers), former Union Minister Mr Balwant Singh Ramoowalia, Dr. Daljeet singh Cheema, Chaudhary Nand Lal, Mr Surinder Singh Bhullewal Rathan, Mr Gurpartap Singh Wadala (all MLAs), Mr Vinod Thapar (Nephew of Shaheed Sukhdev), Bibi Satinder Kaur Kareeha and Mr Mohan Singh Banga (former MLA).
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31 IPS OFFICERS TRANSFERRED IN PUNJAB
Chandigarh, March 23: The Punjab Government today ordered the posting and transfer orders of 31 IPS officers with immediate effect.
According to an Official spokesman Mr. Rajinder Singh has been now posted as ADGP Welfare, Mr.S. K Sharma as ADGP Human Resources Development , Director MRS,PPA Phillour with additional charge ADGP Law & Order, Mr. Narinder Sharma as ADGP Internal Vigilance Cell and Human Rights, Mr. Mohd. Mustafa as ADGP Policies and Rules, Mr. Hardeep Singh Dhillon as ADGP Intelligence and Security, Mr. Sidharth Chatopadhyaya as Member NRI Commission Punjab, Mr. C. Sita Rami Reddy as ADGP Modernisation & Provisioning ,Mr. M K Tiwari as ADGP Administration, Mr. Rajpal Meena as ADGP Railways Punjab at Patiala, Mr.V K Bhawra as ADGP Crime, Mr. Rohit Chaudhry as IG Counter Intelligence Punjab at Chandigarh, Mr.Sanjiv Kalra as IG Security With additional charge of Director SSG, Mr. Paramjit Singh Gill as IGP Zonal 1 Patiala, Mr.B.K. Garg as IG Policy And Welfare, Mr. Ishwar Chander as IG cum Director PPA Phillaur, Mr.Parampal Singh Sidhu as IG Special Narcotics Cell stationed At Pathankot, Mr.Sham Lal as IG Legal Affairs Punjab, Mr. S S Chauhan as IG Crime Punjab, Mr. Kuldeep Singh as IG Headquarters Punjab, Mrs Gurpreet Kaur Deo as IG Zonal II Jalandhar, Mr.Ishwar Singh as IGP-cum Commissioner of Police, Ludhiana, Mr. Paramjit Singh Grewal as IG PAP Jalandhar, Mr. Pramod Ban as DIG Bhatinda Range, Mr. Paramraj Singh as DIG Ferozepur Range, Mr. Lok Nath as DIG Jalandhar Range, Mr. Gautam Cheema as DIG Administration , IRB Battalion At Patiala, Mr. Surinder Singh as DIG Counter Intelligence at Amritsar, Mr. Dinesh Pratap Singh as AIG Provisioning, Mr. Pradeep Kumar Yadav as SP, Telecommunications, Mrs Dhanpreet Kaur as SP Crime Punjab and Mr. Inderbir Singh as SP Personnel 1 CPO.
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CM CONDOLES THE DEATH OF THE ELDEST BROTHER OF PROF. PREM SINGH CHANDUMAJRA
CHANDIGARH MARCH 23:
Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today express profound grief and sorrow over the sad demise of Mr. Ujagar Singh (82), the eldest brother of former Minister and SAD General Secretary Prof. Prem Singh Chandumajra, who died at his native village Chandumajra this morning after a prolonged illness. He was survived by his wife, two sons and three daughters.
In a condolence message, the Chief Minister described Mr. Ujagar Singh as “a disciplined and dedicated soldier, who worked relentlessly to strengthen the party at the grass roots level”.
Mr. Badal shared his heartfelt sympathies with the members of the bereaved family and prayed to the Almighty to grant peace to the departed soul and give courage to bear this irreparable loss.
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March 22: 5 Minister Assuming their office
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ALL PROJECTS TO COMPLETE IN STIPULATED TIME: CHUNI LAL BHAGAT
Chandigarh, March 22:
“The Punjab Government is fully committed to complete all the ongoing projects and provide corruption free and transparent administration under the dynamic leadership of Chief Minister, Punjab Mr. Prakash Singh Badal.” It was disclosed by Mr. Chuni Lal Bhagat, Minister for Local Bodies, Medical Education and Research, while presiding over a maiden meeting with the officers of his department.
The minister said that the SAD-BJP Government had skilfully solved the problem of solid waste in the different cities of Punjab. He said that this project was implemented in a stipulated time frame. He said that establishment of a separate wing in the department of Local Bodies to monitor and improve the quality of development works was being envisaged. Prominent amongst others present in the meeting were Mr. Suresh Kumar, Principal Secretary, Local Bodies Department, Dr. Baldev Raj Chawla, Chairman, Sewerage Board. Mr. A.K. Sinha, Director Local Bodies.
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1600 KILOMETERS OUT OF 1703 OF NATIONAL HIGHWAYS IN PUNJAB TO BE FOURLANED BY 2013: SUKHBIR
10 IMPORTANT ROADS TO BE FOUR LANED AT THE COST OF Rs. 1357 CRORE
CHANDIGARH, MARCH 22:
The Punjab is all set to get a novel distinction by becoming first state in the country that would have all its major cities linked with 4/6 lane roads by the end of 2013.
In a meeting with PWD Minister Mr. Sharanjit Singh Dhillon, Deptuy Chief Minister Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal said that the focus of SAD-BJP government in its second term would be to make road infrastructure in the state best in the country as the four lane roads network to make the state epicenter of investment. He was happy that Punjab would be the only state in the country that would have its 90% National Highways four lane by next year. He said that with the completion of all ongoing projects 1600 Kilometers out of total 1703 Kilometers of National Highway would be four laned by December 2013.
Giving in nod to foul laning of 10 important roads at the cost of Rs 1357 crore, Mr. Badal asked the department to put four laning of Ropar-Chamkaur Sahib-Neelon-Doraha Road along Sirhind Canal, Kotkapura-Muktsar Road, Batala-Mehta-Beas Road, Kapurthala-Nakodar-Phillaur Road, Maanpur Head to Jagraon-Raikot Road along Abohar Branch, Maanpur Head to Barnala-Raikot Road along Bathinda Branch, Nidampur-Lehra Road along Ghaggar Branch, Rayya to Khara along Sabhraon Branch and Tanda-Shri Hargobindpur-Amritsar Road on fast-track and directed for its completion within next two years.
It was informed in the meeting that ambitious four laning of Zirakpur-Patiala (Rs 501 Crore), Patiala-Bathinda (Rs 2007 crore) were awaiting the nod of Cabinet Committee of Infrastructure Projects, whereas for Amritsar-Sri Ganganagar, Jalandahr-Jind Road, alignments have been already approved. It was informed that six laning of Shambhu-Jalandhar Road would be completed by June this year.
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SC Commission tough on fake SC certificates’ beneficiaries
Chandigarh, March 22:
Punjab State Commission for Schedule Caste today hold an important meeting in the chairmanship of Mr. Rajesh Bagha, Chairman of Commission, to discuss the major issues.
Disclosing this here today, spokesperson of commission said that the matter of grabbing jobs by procuring fake SC certificates was discussed. He said that it was unanimously decided that the commission would take stern action against all the miscreants, who has availed any kind of benefit on the basis of fake SC certificates or degrees. It was also decided that all such kind of certificates would be canceled immediately and legal action against the faulty.
Chairman of Commission Mr. Rajesh Bagha said that the SC Commission would ensure due reservation to all SC students in all the private educational institutions besides pre-metric and post-metric scholarships would also be got implemented. He said that the commission would also facilitate to grant fee concession into all the students belong to schedule category in the schools and colleges. He further said that the issue of installation of sun-boards/flex boards mentioning the provision of SC, ST (Atrocities Prevention) Act, 1989, in all the Police station and government offices was also discussed at length.
Others prominent present in the meeting included Mr. Dalip Singh Pandhi, Mr. Parkash Singh Garhdiwal and Mrs. Bharti Canedy (all memberes) and Mr. Pirthi Chand, IAS, Member Secretary.
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RS 273 CRORE TO BE SPENT ON CONSTRUCTING 5200 HOUSES TO MAKE 6 CITIES SLUM FREE: SUKHBIR
· 100% SEWERAGE IN ALL CITIES, IMPLEMENTATION OF SINGLE WINDOW SERVICE WOULD BE THE FOCUS AREAS FOR NEXT THREE YEARS
· MCS TOLD TO COMEDOWN HEAVILY ON ILLEGAL HOARDINGS CITY BUS SERVICES TO BE PUT ON FAST TRACK
CHANDIGARH, MARCH 22:
The Punjab Government would take a major step to make 6 cities slum-free by constructing 5200 tenements for the slumdwellers at the cost of Rs 273 crores.
In a meeting of Local Government Department, the Punjab Deputy Chief Minister Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal said that SAD-BJP government was committed to improve the living standards of people living in the slums and it would fulfill its commitment to the electorates by constructing 5200 houses in the first phase to make 6 cities slum-free. He said that requisite funds have already been sanctioned to the authorities and local government department should expedite the work to provide tenements to the needy and eligible slum-dwellers.
Asking the officers of the Local Bodies Department to put the project of 100% sewerage cover in all cities on fast-track Mr. Badal said that he would not tolerate any quality deterioration in this ambitious Rs 2000 crore project. He asked the department to go for operation and maintenance contract of total sewerage network immediately after its construction for its proper utilization. Mr. Badal issued instructions for linking of total sewerage network with Sewerage Treatment Plants so that no untreated sewerage was released in any open drain, choe or canal.
Focusing on providing citizen friendly services to urban dwellers, Mr. Badal asked the local government department to operationlise Suwidha Kendras in each ward of each city to provide all citizen services under one roof. He said that the experiment of Fard Kendras and Saanjh Kendras has proved that how we can make the interaction of public with the government pleasant one. It was informed that DPR of this project has already been approved and consultancy would start its work very soon.
Coming down heavily on illegal hoardings dotting all cities, Mr. Badal said that strict instruction be issued to all Municipal Corporations and Committees to remove these hoarding forthwith otherwise erring MC Official would have to remain prepared for flak.
Mr. Suresh Kumar, Principal Secretary Urban Development, gave a brief of ongoing projects of Local Government Department.
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Congress leaders call for restraint; say wrong to single out particular leader for defeat
CHANDIGARH, March 22: Several senior Congress leaders today urged their party colleagues, some of whom have started going public issuing statements against the leadership, to exercise caution and restraint lest it demoralise party rank and file and harm the party interests. They also said, it was wrong to single out and blame one particular leader for the electoral outcome as it was the collective responsibility of all.
In a joint statement the party leaders including Mr Laal Singh, Rana Gurmeet Singh Sodhi, Kewal Dhillon, Rana Gurjit Singh, Rana KP, Tript Rajinder Singh Bajwa, OP Soni, Sukhjinder Singh Randhawa, Sukh Sarkaria, Jeet Mohinder Sidhu, Joginder Singh Panjgraian, Bibi Harchand Kaur, Guriqbal Kaur, Raja Warring, Ajaib Singh Bhatti, Mohammad Sadiq, Ramanjit Singh Sikki and others said as responsible leaders and representatives they should raise the party issues only in the party forum and not in press and public.
The party leaders urged their colleagues that instead of going public and issuing statements in media they should meet the senior leaders in the party high command including the Congress President Ms Sonia Gandhi and put across their point directly to her.
They said, the party is faced with an important and challenging task ahead like the crucial municipal corporation elections, followed by Panchayat and Zila Parishad elections and subsequently the parliamentary elections.
The senior leaders said, this was the time to close their ranks and work in the interest of the party and leave important decisions to the high command and in case anybody had his or her opinion to express about these decisions, it should be directly conveyed to the high command and not raised in public as it sends a wrong messages against the party interests.
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MAJITHIA SEEKS PUBLIC COOPERATION TO MAKE TRANSPARENCY DRIVE IN REVENUE DEPARTMENT A SUCCESS
· CALLS FOR BLUEPRINTS TO CURB CORRUPTION AND IMPROVE PUBLIC DEALING
CHANDIGARH, MARCH 22:
Mr. Bikram Singh Majithia, Revenue and Rehabilitation Minister Punjab, today sought the total cooperation of people of making the ongoing drive to ensure transparent working of Revenue Department, a grand success.
Reviewing the working of Revenue Department in a meeting with Senior Officers, Mr. Majithia said that Deputy Chief Minister Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal has brought the ambitious project of total computerization of land records at the brim of total fructification and it was our bounden duty to ensure that all citizen should get the benefit of this historical reforms. He said that his first priority would be to ensure total accuracy of record being put on web besides expediting the ongoing computerization of Fard Kendras for its completion within 6 months. He asked Financial Commissioner Revenue to increase the staff in Fard Kendras where there was a waiting period of more than stipulated 15 minutes. Mr. Majithia said that with completion of computerization of land records the farming community would feel a sigh of relief against the harassment meted out by the low level revenue officials besides having a 24 hour access to their revenue records.
Seeking the suggestions to make department corruption-free, Mr. Majithia said that his endeavour would be to reduce the discretionary power of Tehsildars and Revenue Authorities as these power were breeding ground for corruption. He said that matching collector rate with market rate without hurting market sentiments, satttellite pictures of all urban localities, plugging the loophole of computer codes were some steps that department would take to usher in an era of transparency and curb corruption.
Mr. Majithia exhorted the senior revenue officers to ensure transparent and corruption free revenue administration to make interaction of public with revenue authorities more pleasant. He also directed them for 100 percent computerization of land records within next six months along with special arrangements to check any discrepancy or error.
The Minister categorically said that discretion of Tehsildar for registration of land should be minimized as it further leads to corruption. He asked that Patwaris, Kanungos and Tehsildars should be courteous to the public and there should be no harassment to them.
He said that the Financial Commissioner Revenue should immediately issue directions to start helpline numbers in every district so that any villager can get any mistake in the land record rectified by bringing it in the notice of revenue authorities.
Earlier, Mr. N.S. Kang, Financial Commissioner Revenue gave brief account of working of Revenue department.
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PUNJAB INDUSTRY MINISTER FIRST DAY IN OFFICE BEGINS WITH SANCTION OF 8 INDUSTRIAL PROJECTS WORTH Rs 2692 CRORE
CHANDIGARH, MARCH 21: The newly appointed Punjab Industry & Commerce Minister Mr. Anil Joshi started his first day in the office by ordering the release of 8 Letter-of-Intents of Industrial Projects with combined cost of Rs 2692 crore besides handing over first letter of intent to M/s Penguin Buildtech Pvt. Ltd for Rs 200 crore project to be set-up in holy city Amritsar.
Addressing the officers in Udyog Bhawan after assuming office in the presence of Punjab Deputy Chief Minister Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal , Mr. Anil Joshi said that industry department has to work collectively as a team to give an impetus to industrialization to accelerate the industrial growth on the pattern of Gujarat. The other Letter-of-Intents approved in the meeting mega projects including M/s Nectar Life Science, District Mohali with an estimated cost of Rs.200 crore, M/s Vardhman Special Steel, Ludhiana (estimated cost Rs.134.97 crore), M/s SEL Textile, District Muktsar (estimated cost Rs.1485 crore), M/s Sportking, District Bathinda (estimated cost Rs.303 crore), M/s Supreme Tex Mart, District
Ludhiana (estimated cost Rs.103.25 crore), M/s Satluj Spintex, District Mansa (estimated cost Rs.121 crore) and M/s Sharmanji Textile, District Ludhiana with an estimated cost of Rs.144.82 crore. Mr. Joshi said that these projects worth Rs. 2692 crore, would give a big boost to the industry of Punjab. He said that by introducing such big industrial projects would also be proved to bring back the industries to its mother state and setting up of industrial model on the pattern of Gujarat.
While addressing the media persons, Mr. Joshi said that we should whole heartedly work for the development and promotion of industry and trade in the State so that Punjab could again become one of the leading industrial state of the country. He also said that as their Government has again been given the mandate by the people of the State, the policies and the work which remained uncompleted in the previous tenure should be completed on priority basis. He further said that for achieving the goals and the targets fixed by the State Government all the officers should work selflessly, with complete devotion and sincerity.
Meanwhile, Principal Secretary Industries & Commerce Mr. A.R. Talwar assured the Minister that the department would leave no stone unturned for the development and promotion of the industry and trade in the State.
Earlier, Mr. S.S. Bains, Director, Industries & Commerce, Dr. Arwinder Singh, MD, Punjab Financial Corporation, Mr. Rakesh Verma, MD, InfoTech, Mr. S.M. Goyal, Chief Coordinator, Mega Projects, the MD's of PSIEC, PSIDC and other officers of department and the Corporations welcomed the Minister.
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MALUKA ASSURES CONTINUATION OF TRANSPARENT RECRUITMENT POLICY OF TEACHERS
Chandigarh, March 21
Mr. Sikander Singh Maluka, Education and Language Minister, Punjab today assured that SAD-BJP Government in its second term would continues its transparent recruitment policy for teachers like last term.
Speaking after assuming charge as Education & Language Minister in the presence of Deputy Chief Minister Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal, Mr. Maluka said during that year 75000 teachers were recruited by Education Department and now a campaign would launched to fill the vacant policy promote the eligible teachers and provide them congenial atmosphere.
Prominent among those present at the occasion were Rural Water Supply and Sanitation Minister Bibi Jagir Kaur, Jails, Culture, Tourism Minister Mr. Sarwan Singh Phillaur, Industry and Technical Education Minister Mr. Anil Joshi, Transport Minister Mr. Ajit Singh Kohar, Former Union Minster Mr. Balwant Singh Ramuwalia, Mr. K.D.Bhandari, Mr. Balbir Ghunas, Mr. Sarup Chand Singla and Mr. Mantar Singh Brar (All M.L.As), Principal Secretary Education Mr. Husan Lal, I.A.S., Director Language Department Mrs. Balbir Kaur.
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BUDGET TO ENSURE THE RELIEF TO COMMON MAN: DHINDSA
· Took over the charge of his office in the presence of Deputy Chief Minister.
Chandigarh, March 21.
“Punjab Government would make all out efforts to present people friendly budget so that the much needed relief could be given to the common man, who is being crushed under inflation caused by the wrong policies of the UPA government” This was announced by Mr. Parminder Singh Dhindsa, Finance Minister, while assuming the charge of his office. He took the charge in the presence of Mr.Sukhbir Singh Badal, Deputy Chief Minister, Punjab.
Speaking on the occasion Mr.Sukhbir Singh Badal Singh the repetition of SAD-BJP government was a mandate for its people friendly policies. He said the government was highly hopeful that the states’ exchequer would be in better position under the able leadership on young and dynamic Finance Minister.
Prominent amongst those present at the occasion were Mr.Ajit Singh Kohar, Transport Minister Mr. Sharnjit Singh Dhillon, PWD Minister. Mr.Desh Rah Dhugga, Mr.Balbir Singh Ghunas, Mr. Iqbal Singh Joonda, Mr.Som Parkash and Mr.Surinder Singh Bullewal Rathan (all MLAs), Former DGP Izhar Alam, Smt.Harjit Kaur Dhindsa, Mother and Smt. Gagandeep Kaur Dhindsa, wife of Mr Parminder Singh Dhindsa.
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JAGIR KAUR ASSURED POTABLE WATER SUPPLY IN EVERY VILLAGE IN ONE YEAR
Chandigarh, March 21
Bibi Jagir Kaur, Rural Water Supply and Sanitation and Sainik Welfare Minister, Punjab today assured that SAD-BJP Government would provide potable water supply to all villages within one year. Assuming charge in the presence of Deputy Chief Minster Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal, Bibi Jagir Kaur said that RO system would be provided in all difficult villages.
Speaking on the occasion Deputy Chief Minster Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal said that people have given the mandate in favour of SAD-BJP Government which is the embodiment of pro-people policies of the coalition government. He asserted that the developmental works started by the government would be continued with full dedication.
Prominent among those present at the occasion were Finance Minster Mr. Parminder Singh Dhindsa, Transport Minister Mr. Ajit Singh Kohar, PWD Minister Mr.Surinder Singh Bhulewal Rathan, Mr. Iqbal Singh Jhunda, Mr. Pakash Chand Garg, Mr. Balbir Singh Ghunas and Mr. Som Parkash (All M.L.As), Former DGP Mohd. Izhar Alam. Mother of Mr. Dhindsa Mrs. Harjit Kaur Dhindsa and Wife of Mr. Dhindsa Mrs. Gagandeep Singh Dhindsa.
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INDUSTRY IN PUNJAB TO DEVELOP ON GUJRAT MODEL: JOSHI
ASSUME CHARGE OF OFFICE IN THE PRESENCE OF DEPUTY CHIEF MINISTER
Chandigarh, 21March:-
Mr.Anil Joshi, Industry and technical Education Minister, Punjab today assumed the charge of his office in the presence of S. Sukhbir Singh Badal, Deputy Chief Minister, Punjab.
Speaking on the occasion Mr. Badal said that they were hopeful that industry would further achieve new heights under dynamic leadership of Mr.Joshi.
Mr.Anil joshi said they would provide all the basic facilities to the industry and help to promote the industry in lines with Gujrat. He said that the industry department has decided to hold camps in all the districts of Punjab so that the problems of the industrialists could be understood and solved at the point. He said that efforts were being taken to simplify the process for setting up of new industries by establishing single window system, which would curb the migration of industry to neighboring states. He added that Punjab would soon become a state with surplus power which would eliminate power crisis in the state .Mr. joshi made special mention for the professional reorientation of technical education so that students might easily get the jobs after completing their education.
Prominent amongst those present on the occasion were Bibi Jagir Kaur,Rural water supply and sanitation Minister,S.Sikander Singh Maluka,Education Minister,S. Ajit Singh Kohar,Transport Minister,S,Sarwan Singh Phillaur,Jails Minister, Senior BJP leader Sh.Balram Ji Das Tandon.Sh. A.R. Talwar,Principal Secretary Industry and S.S.Channi, Principal Secretary Technical Education.
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AIM TO BUILD CONSTRUCTIVE ENVIORNMENT IN JAILS: SARWAN SINGH PHILLAUR
ASSUMES CHARGE AS JAILS MINISTER IN PRESENCE OF DEPUTY CHIEF MINISTER SUKHBIR SINGH BADAL
CHANDIGARH, MARCH 21: The Jails and Tourism Minister, Punjab Mr. Sarwan Singh Phillaur today said that building of constructive environment in the jails of Punjab would be his top priority besides inspiring the inmates towards sports and extra curricular activities.
Mr. Phillaur, who assumed the charge of his office in presence of Punjab Deputy Chief Minister Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal, said that Punjab government would continue with its ongoing Jail Reforms for the betterment and welfare of inmates. He said that diversion of inmates’ attention towards sports and other curricular activities would also prove helpful to curb the repeated crime in the society. He said that during the last regime of SAD-BJP government several jails have been modified and now the remaining jails would also be converted into modern jails.
When asked about the tourism policy of the state government, Mr. Phillaur said that he has already directed to the officers of the department to chalk out an impressive plan to bring the Punjab on the tourism map of the country. He said that the government would emphasise on heritage and geographical development of Punjab as it has capacity to become as one of the best tourism center of India.
Prominent amongst those, who were present on the occasion included Mr. Sikander Singh Maluka, Education Minister, Mr. Ajit Singh Kohar, Transport Minister, Bibi Jagir Kaur, Rural Water Supply and Sanitation Minister, Mr. Mantar Brar, MLA Kotkapura and Former Union Minister Mr. Balwant Singh Ramoowalia and the officers of the duo departments.
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revised
BADAL MEETS PM AND UNION HOME MINISTER, DEMANDS IMMEDIATE CONVENING OF THE SESSION OF SGPC
NON-PASSING OF THE BUDGET OF SGPC BY MARCH 31ST WOULD CREATE FINANCIAL CHAOS AND ADVERSELY AFFECT THE WORKING OF MORE THEN GURUDWARAS FALLING UNDER ITS JURISDICTION- CM
NCTC WAS DESIGNED BY THE UPA GOVERNMENT TO USURP THE POWERS OF THE STATE GOVERNMENTS WHICH COULD NOT BE TOLERATED- BADAL
New Delhi, March 20-
Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today called on the Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh and Union Home Minister Mr P Chidambram separately to impress them for immediately calling the session of Shiromani Gurdara Prabandak Committee (SGPC) to avoid any sort of financial crisis in the ‘Mini Parliament’ of the Sikhs.
The Chief Minister during his meeting with Dr Manmohan Singh at his official residence in 7 Race Course Road and Home Minister Mr P Chindambram at his office in North Block apprised both the leaders that the maiden session of the SGPC was significant as election of the Office bearers of this highly revered organization is to be done in it. He said that if the office bearers of SGPC were not elected by March 31st then financial chaos would prevail in this esteemed organization, which would give a big blow to the psyche of Sikhs. Mr Badal said that the non-passing of the budget by the end of this month would adversely affect the working of more then 340 Gurudwaras falling under the jurisdiction of the SGPC, which would hurt the religious sentiments of the Sikhs.
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Talking to the newsmen after meeting both the leaders the Chief Minister said that Sikhs were enraged over the unnecessary meddling by the Congress in their religious affairs. He said that it was unfortunate that firstly the Union government had irrelevantly delayed the SGPC elections for more than two years. However Mr Badal said that after the Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) had lodged protest against it the Union government was forced to conduct the elections but unfortunately the state leadership of Congress party unsuccessfully tried to capture it in a clandestine manner by hobnobbing with the forces opposed to SAD. “But having failed in their ulterior motives the Congress leadership is now delaying the election of office bearers of SGPC due to which the Sikh community was highly peeved” he added.
Mr Badal said that both the Prime Minister and Home Minister have assured him that they would look into the matter. He expressed hope that the issue would be soon resolved so that any sort of fiscal problem could be avoided in the organization.
On a query regarding the stand of SAD on the proposal of setting up of the National Counter Terrorism Centre (NCTC), the Chief Minister said that their party was vehemently opposed to any such idea that was infringed the rights of the states. He said that NCTC was designed by the Union government to usurp the powers of the state governments which could not be tolerated. Mr Badal said that in fact the NCTC was a big blow to the Federal structure provided by our Constitution and its sole aim was to turn the country into a unitary state. Making a scathing attack on the Congress the Chief Minister said that the NCTC was not only being opposed by the Chief Minister’s of the Non Congress governments but even the Congress governments in various states were also opposing it adding that due to such policies of UPA government the regional political forces are being preferred by the people across the country. “The need of the hour is that the Constitution of the country should be reframed so as that Federal values are again inculcated in it” he added.
The Chief Minister was accompanied by SGPC President Jathedar Avtar Singh, Rural Development Minister and Panchayat Minister Mr Surjeet Singh Rakhra and Principal Secretary to the Chief Minister Mr SK Sandhu
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CM CALLS ON UNION RURAL DEVELOPMENT MINISTER MR JAIRAM RAMESH
New Delhi, March 20-
Punjab Chief Minister Mr Parkash Singh Badal today called on the Union Rural Development Minister Mr Jairam Ramesh and demanded that the Union government must include atleast one road of the state to each village, constructed with the state fund under the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojna (PMGSY) for up gradation.
In a meeting with the Union Minister at his office at Shastri Bhawan, the Chief Minister said that the decision was need of the hour as it would give necessary impetus required for uplifting rural road network in the state. Mr Badal also urged the Union Minister that owing to the problem of the land in the state and the policy of the State government to not even acquire an inch of land without the express consent of the farmers the state was being deprived of funds for constructing the roads under the PMGSY as the minimum width requirement of such roads is 10 metres.
He asked the Union Minister that keeping in view the genuine problem of the state the width must be reduced to 8.38 metres in the state. Mr Badal also demanded that the Government of India must allow the revision of Core Network by including at least 5000 kilometres. Meanwhile the Union Minister assured the Chief Minister that they would look into the matter and would pass on the necessary directions to the officers.
The Chief Minister was accompanied by Rural Development Minister and Panchayat Minister Mr Surjeet Singh Rakhra and Principal Secretary to the Chief Minister Mr SK Sandhu.
New Delhi, March 20, 2012
Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today called on the Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh and Union Home Minister Mr P Chidambram separately to impress them for immediately calling the session of Shiromani Gurdara Prabandak Committee (SGPC) to avoid any sort of financial crisis in the ‘Mini Parliament’ of the Sikhs.
The Chief Minister during his meeting with Dr Manmohan Singh at his official residence in 7 Race Course Road and Home Minister Mr P Chindambram at his office in North Block apprised both the leaders that the maiden session of the SGPC was significant as election of the Office bearers of this highly revered organization is to be done in it. He said that if the office bearers of SGPC were not elected by March 31st then financial chaos would prevail in this esteemed organization, which would give a big blow to the psyche of Sikhs. Mr Badal said that the non-passing of the budget by the end of this month would adversely affect the working of more then Gurudwaras falling under the jurisdiction of the SGPC, which would hurt the religious sentiments of the Sikhs.
Talking to the newsmen after meeting both the leaders the Chief Minister said that Sikhs were enraged over the unnecessary meddling by the Congress in their religious affairs. He said that it was unfortunate that firstly the Union government had irrelevantly delayed the SGPC elections for more than two years. However Mr Badal said that after the Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) had lodged protest against it the Union government was forced to conduct the elections but unfortunately the state leadership of Congress party unsuccessfully tried to capture it in a clandestine manner by hobnobbing with the forces opposed to SAD. “But having failed in their ulterior motives the Congress leadership is now delaying the election of office bearers of SGPC due to which the Sikh community was highly peeved” he added.
Mr Badal said that both the Prime Minister and Home Minister have assured him that they would look into the matter. He expressed hope that the issue would be soon resolved so that any sort of fiscal problem could be avoided in the organization.
On a query regarding the stand of SAD on the proposal of setting up of the National Counter Terrorism Centre (NCTC), the Chief Minister said that their party was vehemently opposed to any such idea that was infringed the rights of the states. He said that NCTC was designed by the Union government to usurp the powers of the state governments which could not be tolerated. Mr Badal said that in fact the NCTC was a big blow to the Federal structure provided by our Constitution and its sole aim was to turn the country into a unitary state. Making a scathing attack on the Congress the Chief Minister said that the NCTC was not only being opposed by the Chief Minister’s of the Non Congress governments but even the Congress governments in various states were also opposing it adding that due to such policies of UPA government the regional political forces are being preferred by the people across the country. “The need of the hour is that the Constitution of the country should be reframed so as that Federal values are again inculcated in it” he added.
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CM CALLS ON UNION RURAL DEVELOPMENT MINISTER MR JAIRAM RAMESH
New Delhi, March 20, 2012
Punjab Chief Minister Mr Parkash Singh Badal today called on the Union Rural Development Minister Mr Jairam Ramesh and demanded that the Union government must include atleast one road of the state to each village, constructed with the state fund under the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojna (PMGSY) for up gradation.
In a meeting with the Union Minister at his office at Shastri Bhawan, the Chief Minister said that the decision was need of the hour as it would give necessary impetus required for uplifting rural road network in the state. Mr Badal also urged the Union Minister that owing to the problem of the land in the state and the policy of the State government to not even acquire an inch of land without the express consent of the farmers the state was being deprived of funds for constructing the roads under the PMGSY as the minimum width requirement of such roads is 10 metres.
He asked the Union Minister that keeping in view the genuine problem of the state the width must be reduced to 8.38 metres in the state. Mr Badal also demanded that the Government of India must allow the revision of Core Network by including at least 5000 kilometres. Meanwhile the Union Minister assured the Chief Minister that they would look into the matter and would pass on the necessary directions to the officers.
The Chief Minister was accompanied by Rural Development Minister and Panchayat Minister Mr Surjeet Singh Rakhra and Principal Secretary to the Chief Minister Mr SK Sandhu.
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OFFICERS REQUESTED TO SEEK PRIOR APPOINTMENT FROM CM STAFF
CHANDIGARH, MARCH 20:
A spokesman of Punjab CM office today said that all government officers/officials desirous of meeting Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal should seek an appointment from CM Staff after requisite permission from their own department.
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HARSIMRAT BADAL PUTS MINISTRY OF FOOD AND PDS ON THE MAT IN LOK SABHA TODAY
Chandigarh, March 20 :
Harsimrat Kaur Badal, Member Parliament Lok Sabha from Bathinda today in the Lok Sabha asked the government to explain whether its department FCI has the capacity to carry out the job of 22000 Commission Agents if the government wants to pay directly to the farmers? Stressing the need to change the existing system of paying through Commission Agents only when the government was going to put in place a better system, she said, “the government should not indulge into making new systems which facilitate more corruption and provide better opportunity for more corruption”.
Replying to the question the Minister for Food, Public Distribution System and Consumer Affairs, Prof. K.V.Thomas has said that the government was in fact trying to pay directly to the farmers and procure directly from the farmers. While defending both farmers of Punjab and the system of Commission Agents, Harsimrat Badal said that FCI was one of the most corrupt organizations in India and FCI has got corruption institutionalized into its system and she demanded instead of ending the livelihood of the Commission Agents and their workforce which would in turn mean increased harassment to the farmers at the hands of corrupt FCI officials, she appealed to the Minister stop
corruption in the FCI.
“Agriculture being the backbone of my state and we have been providing over half the country’s food requirements for decades and we have spent thousands of crores and established an infrastructure in the mandis to handle the huge operations of procurement of 112 lakh MT of wheat and 140 lakh MT of paddy which is lifted in one month’s
operations for each crop” she said. While questioning the system of dispensing with the Commission Agents, she mentioned how would 500 FCI inspector do the job done by 22000 Commission Agents who procure grains from 15 lakh farmers, and how would few FCI officials pay cheques to the farmers, do they have paraphernalia to carry out that
job.
She said that an FCI Inspector who otherwise does not prepare 50 cheques a day how would that official prepare 5000 cheques a day. This would tend to further harass the farmer as he would not be paid for months together.
She also question the government’s intention to do away the middlemen 2.5% commission being paid to the Commission Agents by the FCI, and said that if the government wishes to ensure that farmer is paid well then why does not the government raise MSP and calculate it on scientific grounds on actual input costs plus 50% profits as suggested
by Dr. Swaminathan Committee. She said that cost of Urea has gone up by 80% in last six months, cost of Potash has gone up by 50%, cost of diesel and other items have also gone up by 50%, but the rise in MSP that the government propose every year is merely 5%.
The House Members across party line supporting the stand of Harsimrat Badal and hon’ble Speaker Meira Kumar making frentic efforts to calm down the Members.
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CM APPOINTS ALIWAL AS CHAIRMAN PUNJAB AGRO
Chandigarh, March 20:
Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal has appointed Mr. Amrik Singh Aliwal as the Chairman of Punjab Agro Industries Corporation with immediate effect.
Disclosing this here today an official spokesperson of the Chief Minister's Office said that the formal orders in this regard were being issued.
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World class road infrastructure in the state would be our priority: Dhillon --P.W.D. MINISTER ASSUMES OFFICE
CHANDIGARH, MARCH 20:
The Punjab Public Works Department Minister Mr. Sharanjit Singh Dhillon assumed the charge of office at Punjab Civil Secretariat, Chandigarh. Mr. Dhillon took over after performing ‘Ardas’.
Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Dhillon said that the SAD-BJP government got mandate of people on its development agenda. He said that his top priority would be to provide world class road infrastructure in the state. He said that immediately after the wheat harvesting, illegal encroachments on the roadsides across the state would be removed. Mr. Dhillon pointed out that the department would also soon initiate the process of recruitment of Junior Engineers and Sub Divisional Officers to overcome the shortage of staff besides bringing more efficiency. He said that the Quality Control Wing (QCW) of department would be made more active and accountable.
Mr. Dhillon expressing his gratitude to the Almighty to give him an opportunity to serve the people of Punjab and thanked Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal and Deputy Chief Minister Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal for providing him a platform to serve the people of state.
Prominent amongst those present on the occasion included Mr. Manpreet Singh Iyali, Mr. Darshan Singh Shivalik, Mr. S.R. Kaler, Mr. Ranjeet Singh Dhillon, Mr. Prem Mittal (All MLAs) and Mr. Ajmer Singh Bhagpur Chairman Milk Plant Ludhiana, Mr. Santa Singh Umedpuri Chairman Subordinate Services Selection Board, Punjab, Baba Jagrup Singh Chairman Market Committee, Sahnewal, Mr. G.R. Bains and A.K. Singla (both Chief Engineers of PWD), Superintending Engineer Mr. Varinderjeet Singh Dhindsa and Youth Akali Dal leadre Iqbal Singh Sandhu (Tarntaran).
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100 PERCENT WATER SUPPLY AND SEWERAGE COVERAGE OF ALL CITIES AND TOWNS OF PUNJAB IN NEXT THREE YEARS – BHAGAT CHUNI LAL
v NEW LOCAL BODIES MINISTER TAKES OVER
Chandigarh March 20:
Punjab Local Bodies and Medical Education and Research Minister Bhagat Chuni Lal today assumed his office in the presence of Senior BJP Leaders here at Punjab Civil Secretariat.
Speaking on the occasion, the new Local Bodies Minister reiterated that the SAD – BJP combine’s resolve to ensure 100 percent water supply and sewerage coverage of all cities and towns of Punjab in next three years. He said that the department would also accord priority to decongest urban areas for streamlining traffic. He said that to provide World Class civic infrastructure in urban areas, required number of flyovers and by-passes would be constructed. He said that Air Conditioned bus service would also be launched in other major cities for the convenience of daily commuters.
He said that a meeting of senior officers of Local Government Department would be convened soon to review the status of ongoing projects besides prioritizing the projects to be undertaken in near future to create country’s best urban infrastructure in the state. He also reiterated his commitment to sort out the problems being faced by public and announced that he would be available to everybody in his office.
On this occasion Mr. Ashwani Sharma President BJP Punjab, Mr. Anil Joshi, Industries and Commerce Minister, Sh. K.D.Bhandari MLA, Mr. Manoranjan Kalia MLA, Mr. Balramji Dass Tandon and Mr. Tikshan Sud, both former Minister, Dr. Baldev Raj Chawla, Chairman, Punjab water Supply & Sewerage Board, Mr. Manjit Singh Rai and Mr. Kamal Sharma, both Punjab BJP General Secretaries, Mr. Mahinder Bhagat, Vice President Punjab BJP, Mr. Suresh Kumar, Principal Secretary Local Bodies and Mr. A.K.Sinha, Director Local Bodies were also present and congratulated Bhagat Chuni Lal.
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VACANT POSTS IN HEALTH DEPARTMENT TO BE FILLED ON PRIORITY BASIS-MADAN MOHAN MITTAL
· ASSUMES OFFICE AS HEALTH AND FAMILY WELFARE MINISTER
Chandigarh, March 20
Punjab Health and Family Welfare Minister Mr Madan Mohan Mittal today said that the Punjab Government was fully committed to provide world class health facilities across the state.
Revealing this here today, while assuming the office at Punjab Civil Secretariat , Mr Mittal said that vacant posts in the health department would be filled on priority basis under a special plan. He added that to ensure the presence of Doctors and other staff in hospitals and primary health centers especially in villages, a special drive would be launched soon.
Adding further he said that medicines would be provided to common man on reasonable prices and for that the process of purchase of medicines, would be made more transparent. He said that a special cell would be created to seek valuable suggestions from all over the state to improve the health facilities.
Prominent amongst present on the occasion included cabinet ministers Mr Bhagat Chunni Lal and Mr Anil Joshi, Mr Ashwani Sharma, Mr Manoranjan Kalia, Mr K.D.Bhandari M.L.As, Mr Tikshan Sud, Mr Kamal Sharma, Mr Balram ji Das Tandon, Mr Baldev Raj Chawla and Mr Manjit Singh Rai.
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Congress seeks an unconditional apology from Sh. Sukhbir Badal
for his fascist, feudal, dictatorial and despot like threatening remarks against Smt. Sonia Gandhi.....Sukhpal Singh Khaira-Ex-MLA Bholath; Mangat Rai Bansal- Ex-MLA; Surinderpal Singh Sibia- Ex-MLA; R.R. Bhardwaj- Chairman, Planning Cell Congress; Ram Lal Dhapai- General Secretary PPCC
The fascist, feudal, despotic and dictatorial personality of Sh. Sukhbir Badal has come to the public fore, with his threat to grind every grain of wheat, that carries the picture of Smt. Sonia Gandhi for public distribution system.
In one breath Sh. Sukhbir Badal seeks the cooperation of the opposition Congress party to run the SAD-BJP
govt., while in the same breath he not only insults Smt. Sonia Gandhi but carries out his threat to marginalize the Congress rank and file. The real vindictive mindset of the Dy. CM also stands exposed with this most unparliamentary statement. Left to him, Sh. Sukhbir Badal would physically eliminate his political opponents like the feudals and dictators of yesteryears. The oft repeated charge of political vendetta against thousands of congressmen in Punjab also stands vindicated with this statement.
It is also extremely unfortunate that instead of appreciating the central govt. support for providing wheat for ‘Atta-Dal’ scheme, the Junior Badal has opted to intimidate and threaten Smt. Sonia Gandhi.
The Junior Badal must not forget that he is in politics courtesy his father and without any meaningful contribution to the cause of Punjab. The father-son duo may have wrested power in Punjab through misuse of money power and manipulation but they should also not forget, that they are termed as the fountainheads of corruption in the country.
On the other hand, the elders and forefathers of Smt. Sonia Gandhi have laid down their lives for the unity and integrity of India. Unlike the Badal clan full of lust for power, Smt. Sonia Gandhi turned down the office of Prime Minister given to her on a platter.
We also urge the party leadership particularly Sh. Sunil Jakhar leader of the CLP, to initiate a strong programme both within and outside the Vidhan Sabha, to counter this deep rooted conspiracy of Sh. Sukhbir Badal to marginalize Congress rank and file and the insult to Smt. Sonia Gandhi.
The Congress demands an unconditional apology from Sh. Sukhbir Badal, failing which this fight would be taken to the masses.
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Capt Amarinder reiterates charges of vendetta against party workers; to give details to Mr Badal
CHANDIGARH, March 19: Reiterating his charges against the newly formed Akali-BJP government that its officers had started targeting and victimizing the Congress workers in the state, Punjab Pradesh Congress Committee President Capt Amarinder Singh today said that he will soon be forwarding the details to the Chief Minister Mr Parkash Singh Badal as desired by him in a letter (written to Capt Amarinder) to see what action he really takes.
Capt Amarinder also hailed the appointment of Mr Sunil Jhakhar as the leader of the Congress Legislative Party.
He announced that he will be touring the entire state in the coming days to meet the party workers and the entire rank and file. “My hands are full as we have municipal elections, panchayat elections and then parliamentary elections”, he said, while spelling out his future course of action.
Maintaining that the government had again stooped to its old tactics of victimising and harassing the Congress workers, he said, even the security cover provided to the Punjab Youth Congress vice president Sukhpal Bhullar had been withdrawn despite High Court orders and an affidavit filed by the SSP that he was being provided security.
Addressing a press conference at the PCC office here today, Capt Amarinder also warned against indiscipline of any kind in the party and said, he as well as the high command had taken serious and strong note of it. He said, the party in-charge for Punjab Thakur Gulchain Singh Charak has already issued a warning against indiscipline.
Fielding a wide range of questions, he attributed the party’s loss in the recently held elections mainly to three factors; presence of rebels who spoiled the chances of the party candidates in at least 11 constituencies, the massive votes polled by the Bahujan Samaj Party in Doaba region as compared to 2007 elections and the ‘aata-daal scheme’, which despite being funded by the government of India was exploited by the Akalis to their own advantage.
Capt Amarinder disagreed that due efforts were not made to prevail upon the party rebels to withdraw from the contest. He said, despite limited time available, of the 81 rebels who had filed nomination papers, 60 were made to withdraw and only 21 were left. Besides, he added, by the time Congress leadership could reach out to them they had already been paid huge money by the Shiromani Akali Dal to ensure that they stayed in the contest.
He pointed out, a high powered committee headed by the Congress general secretary Mr BK Hariprasad pursued the matter. “Hence it is wrong to say that due efforts were not made to make the rebels withdraw”, he pointed out.
Maintaining that the BSP had really done immense damage to the party in the Doaba region, he pointed out at several seats like Philaur, Kartarpur, Adampur and Phagwara the BSP vote share went up substantially as compared to 2007 elections and that damaged the Congress prospects in the region.
He said, the Akali-BJP alliance took the advantage of the welfare schemes of the government of India. “Punjab added 7 lakh more below poverty line families to the already existing 13 lakh families and it was all funded by the government of India”, he pointed out.
Asserting that the Congress vote share in the state was intact, he pointed out, rather it was the Akali-BJP alliance whose vote share has come down by 4 per cent while that of the Congress has come down by less than one percent. “Although the alliance won 12 seats more than the Congress, but their total vote share is only 0.8 (rpt 0.8) percent more than us”, he pointed out, while maintaining that the People’s Party of Punjab had taken away more votes from the Akalis than the Congress.
The newly appointed CLP Leader Mr Sunil Jhakhar, former Chief Minister Ms Rajinder Kaur Bhattal, PCC vice presidents Mr Lal Singh and Mr Rana Sodhi and general secretaries Mr Arvind Khanna and Rana Gurjit were also present at the press conference.
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PUNJAB TO BECOME FIRST STATE WITH TOTAL COMPUTERIZATION OF LAND RECORDS WITHIN SIX MONTHS-MAJITHIA
COMMITTED TO PROVIDE TRANSPARENT, CORRUPTION FREE REVENUE ADMINISTRATION TO THE CITIZEN
SAD-BJP GOVERNMENT DUTY BOUND TO TAKE DEVELOPMENT AGENDA ON HIGHER LEVEL
CHANDIGARH, MARCH 19: Mr. Bikram Singh Majithia, Revenue, Rehabilitation and Public Relations Minister Punjab, today said that Punjab, the agrarian state of the country is all set to become first state in the country with total computerization of land records within six months.
Interacting with the media persons after taking over as Revenue Minister here today in the second term of SAD-BJP government, Mr. Majithia said that our government under the leadership of Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal and visionary guidance of Deputy Chief Minister Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal that initiated this gigantic task to computerize all land records in our last term and 147 out of total 160 Fard Kendras have become fully operational and rest 13 would be operational by September this year. He said that we have computerized the land record of 11500 villages and now every villager can get copy of Fard across the counter at a nominal rate of Rs 20 per page instantly. Mr. Majithia said that he has issued directions to Financial Commissioner Revenue to start helpline numbers in every district so that any villager can get any mistake in the land record rectified by reporting on this He said that the department has also started putting land record on the web so that any person can view the status of his land record sitting at home and get a copy at his personnel computer.
Promising transparent, corruption-free and people-friendly revenue administration, Mr. Majithia said that his endeavour would be to improve the interaction of people with the department, pleasant and he would ensure that every citizen gets due respect from all revenue authorities. Appealing to all Tehsildars, Kanugos and Patwaris to collectively work to realize this mission, Mr. Majithia said that honest, dedicated and sincere officers would be honoured and others should remain prepared for a flak.
Vowing to take development agenda of SAD-BJP government to a next higher level, Mr. Majithia said that people of Punjab has put a stamp of approval on our development vision and now we are duty-bound to fulfill the aspirations of people as promised in the manifesto. He said that SAD-BJP government would take the message and benefits of Right To Service Act to the people so that they could be educated regarding their rights and this act could be implemented in its true spirit.
When asked about internal contradictions in Congress led UPA government, Mr. Majithia said that results of five Vidhan Sabha polls mark the beginning of countdown for the end of UPA rule and people should remain prepare for mid-term elections as UPA cannot survive with adhocism and political patch work being worked out on daily basis.
Prominent amongst those were present on the occasion included Mr. Gulzar Singh Ranike, Animal Husbandry and Fisheries Minister, Mr. Janmeja Singh Sekhon, Irrigation Minister, Mr. Tota Singh, Agriculture Minister, Mr. Parminder Singh Dhindsa, Finance Minister, Mr. Sikander Singh Maluka, Education Minister, Mr. Sharanjit Singh Dhillon, PWD Minister, Mr. Sarwan Singh Phillaur, Jails and Printing Minister, Mr. Deep Malhotra, Mr. S.R. Kaler, Mr. Manpreet Singh Iyali, Mr. Pargat Singh, Mr. Darshan Singh Shivalik, Mr. Amar Pal Singh Boni, Mr. Virsa Singh Valtoha all MLAs, Mr. Balwant Singh Ramoowalia, Former Union Minister and Senior SAD leaders all over the state, who congratulated Mr. Majithia on assuming new responsibility.
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OVERALL DEVELOPMENT OF RURAL AREAS IS TOP PRIORITY OF SAD-BJP GOVERNMENT: RAKHRA
ASSUMES CHARGE OF OFFICE AS RURAL DEVELOPMENT AND PANCHAYATS MINISTER
CHANDIGARH, MARCH 19:
Mr. Surjit Singh Rakhra, Rural Development and Panchayats Minister today said that the Punjab Government would expedite the development projects in the rural belts in the state by further improving education system, curbing the menace of drugs and providing more employment opportunities.
Interacting with the media after taking over as Rural Development and Panchayats Minister, Mr. Rakhra appealed the officers of Rural Development and Panchayats Department to pay full attention towards the grievances of people and try to resolve them in a short span of time. He said that we all should work collectively for the betterment of Punjab and welfare of rural people.
Revenue Minister Mr. Bikram Singh Majithia, Animal Husbandry and Dairy Development Minister Mr. Gulzar Singh Ranike and Mr. Virsa Singh Valtoha, Mr. Amarpal Singh Bonny Ajnala and Mr. Harpreet Singh, Mr. Manjeet Singh Manna and Mrs. Varider Kaur Loomba (All MLAs), Former Cabinet Minister Mr. Sucha Singh Langah, Mr. Kirpal Singh Badungar Former SGPC President, Surjit Singh Ablowal Chairman PUNSEED, Mr. Jaspal Singh Kalyan Vice Chairman Zila Prishad, Patiala, Youth Akali Dal leader Mr. Karamjit Singh Rakhra, Charanjit Singh Rakhra and Mr. Inderjit Singh Rakhra, Mr. Ravi Ahluwalia besides councilors of Patiala Municipal Corporation Were amongst those present on the occasion.
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NEW RECUITMENTS IN ROADWAYS WOULD BE THE FIRST PRIORITY-TRANSPORT MINISTER
PRESIDE OVER THE TAKES MAIDEN MEETING OF ROADWAYS OFFICIALS
CHANDIGARH, MARCH 19:
Punjab transport Minister Mr Ajit Singh Kohar today said that new recruitments in the roadways would be his first priority.
Disclosing this here today in maiden meeting of Roadways officials at Punjab Bhavan, Mr Kohar said that the process for the new recruitment would be initiated soon. He said that Punjab Roadways was making a significant contribution in the development of the state and presently it has commuting fleet of 1798 buses with 60 Lakh people traveled daily in it. He said that for speedy development a state needs strong transport system and Punjab government was fully committed to make Punjab Roadways more efficient. He sought a report of the villages, which have no means of public transportation and said that all these villages in the state would be attached to their near cities with government bus service.
Taking note of the problems faced by common man while traveling, he urged the employees to behave in a courteous manner. He also asked officials to ensure their presence at headquarters for smooth functioning.
Mr Kohar also revealed that all workshops of roadways across the state would be renewed. Secretary Transport Mr Mandeep Singh besides GMs and DTOs from all over the state were present in the meeting.
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BADAL FOR COMPLETE UTILIZATION OF NABRAD
FUNDS UNDER RIDF PROJECTS
CHANDIGARH MARCH 17:
Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal asked the Chief General Manager of NABARD Punjab Region Mr. Krishan Jindal to completely utilize the sanctioned funds under various schemes within stipulated time to avoid any lapse of these funds.
Disclosing this here today a spokesperson of the Chief Minister's office said that Mr. Badal was presiding over a high level meeting with the team of NABARD led by Mr. Krishan Jindal here today and reviewed the report prepared by NABARD about the under utilized funds. The other members of the NABARD's team included General Manager Mr. DC Sharma and AGM Mr. RR Badyal. Mr. Jindal briefed the Chief Minister about the possibility of drawal of RIDF loan of around Rs. 130 crore from NABARD under the ongoing projects and submission of one new project involving RIDF loan of around Rs. 50 crore for sanction during the current financial year (2011-12).
Mr. Jindal apprised that NABARD could have disbursed more but limit of Rs. 450 crore fixed under Section 293 (3) of the Constitution of India for the State was the limiting factor. He requested that the State Government may pursue with the Planning Commission to get the same enhanced to Rs. 600 crore for the year 2012-13
Mr. Badal directed all the concerned Secretaries of the departments of Irrigation- Drainage/ Kandi Area Development/, Water Supply and Sanitation, Public Works, Punjab Water Resources Management and Development Corporation, to submit drawal applications to NABARD through the Finance Department by 20 March 2012. He further asked for sending a project for construction of roads and warehouses to NABARD with in next two days.
Prominent amongst others who were present in the meeting included, Financial Commissioner Revenue Mr. NS Kang, Principal Secretary to Chief Minister Mr. SK Sandhu, KJS Cheema and Mr. KS Pannu both Special Principal Secretaries to the Chief Minister, Principal Secretary Animal Husbandry Mr. Jagpal Singh Sandhu, Principal Secretary Finance Mr. Satish Chandra, Principal Secretary Irrigation Mr. KBS Sidhu, Principal Secretary PWD (B&R) Mr. PS Aujla, Principal Secretary Cultural Affairs and Tec. Education Mr. SS Channi and Secretary Water Supply and Sanitation Mr, Sanjay Kumar.
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ASHOK AGGARWAL TO CONTINUE AS ADVOCATE GENERAL OF PUNJAB
CHANDIGARH, MARCH 17: The Punjab Government has decided that Mr. Ashok Aggarwal would continue as Advocate General of Punjab. Mr. Aggarwal has consented to continue on this assignment.
This was disclosed by an official spokesman.
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The first session of 14th Punjab Vidhan Sabha begins on 19th March, 2012
Chandigarh, March 16:
The first session of 14th Vidhan Sabha has been called on 19th March, 2012 at 2 pm. On 19th and 20th March newly elected members would be administered oath. The election of speaker would be held on 20th March, 2012. The Governor Punjab would address the Punjab Vidhan Sabha on 21st March, 2012 and vote of thanks for Governor Address would be passed on 26th March, 2012
This was disclosed by a spokesman of Punjab Vidhan Sabha.
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BADAL ASSAILS UNION BUDGET 2012-13 AS DIRECTIONLESS, NON PROGRESSIVE AND UNREALISTIC
MERE HIKE IN BUDGETARY ALLOCATION IN AGRICULTURE SECTOR- AN EYEWASH
Chandigarh, March 16:
Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today decried the Union budget 2012-13 as totally directionless, non progressive and unrealistic, with additional taxes burden of Rs. 45,940 crore on the people of India, against meager relief of Rs. 4,500 crore only.
Describing the budget proposals for 2012-13 as farce and illusionary, Mr Badal said “The proposed budgetary provisions are nothing but an ambiguous act which would badly effect the pockets of the working classes, the employees, small & medium traders and farmers”.
In a statement the Chief Minister said that it was highly deplorable on the part of the UPA government to further accentuate the woes of poor and middle class especially the common man to whom it claimed as the votary to safeguard rights of “Aam Aadmi” by presenting an anti poor and anti common man budget. He categorically said “We strongly condemn the proposal to raise Service Tax from 10% to 12% and standard rate of Excise Duty from 10% to 12%. These twin measures will lead to all round increase in prices and will hurt small and medium scale industry and common man”. He said that the proposed budget would further propel inflationary trends in the economy thereby making the life of common man far more miserable.
The hidden agenda of the UPA government to achieve high growth rate and bring fiscal reforms to make Indian Economy self sustainable had been fully exposed with the hollow proposals in the current budget, which would unleash a fresh bout of inflation much to the dismay of all sections of the society be it poor, middle, trade, industry, peasantry and others. Reacting sharply on the blatant neglect of agriculture sector Mr Badal said that a mere hike of 18% in the Agriculture sector was a peanut which would be unable to satiate the high expectations of the already beleaguered peasantry across the country. He said that it was ridiculous that Punjab being the major contributor in the national food pool to make our country self reliant in food production and achieving national food security has not been given any concession or incentives to reward for its enormous contribution. Mr Badal said that Punjab had a tremendous potential to herald a second Green Revolution through diversification of agriculture, which was the need of the hour in order to ensure better remunerative prices to poor farmers but unfortunately the current budget proposals in the agriculture sector had once again brought the apathetic and anti farmer stance of UPA government to the fore.
Mr Badal further said that the budgetary proposals have also disappointed the salaried class who was expecting a major relief but in reality their hopes have been dashed top the ground with negligible respite in proposed Income Tax class slab. Likewise, the State’s industry had also a setback, as it was already suffering because of the continuing package of concessions to the neighboring States which had led to the exodus of industry from Punjab, said Mr. Badal. Mr.
Badal said that a Powerloom Mega Cluster had been proposed in Maharashtra with investment of Rs. 70 crore but no such Powerloom Mega cluster was proposed for our Industry in the Ludhiana District.
Regarding debt bourdon on the state, Mr. Badal said that Punjab had always been given a step motherly treatment and no debt relief had ever been proposed in the union budget.
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SUKHBIR CONGRATULATES SACHIN FOR CREATING HISTORY BY CLOCKING 100TH CENTURY
CHANDIGARH, MARCH 16: Punjab Deputy Chief Minister and Sports Minister Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal today felicitated Mr. Sachin Ramesh Tendulkar for creating world history by scoring 100th international century, sealing the lips of his critics forever.
In a statement issued here today, the Punjab Sports Minister said that Sachin, a role model for every sports person has proved that nothing was impossible for a dedicated and devoted player like Sachin. He said that this day would be written with the golden letters in the cricket history as he has created a unsurpassable world record achieved after 23 years long cricket career.
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FOREST MINISTER SURJEET JYANI ASSUMES OFFICE
Chandigarh, March 16
Mr..Surjeet Kumar Jyani ,Forest, Wildlife and Labour Minister, Punjab today assumed the charge of his office placed at the third floor of Punjab Civil Secretariat, Chandigarh. Speaking on the occasion Mr. Jyani said that people have given the mandate in favor of SAD-BJP government which is the embodiment of pro-people policies of the coalition government. He asserted that the developmental works started by the government would be continued with full dedication. Prominent among those present at the occasion were Principal Chief conservator, Mr. BC Bala, Principal Chief conservator, Mr. HS Gujral, MD of Forest Department, Mr. Kuldeep Singh,Vice Chairman of BC Commission, Mr. Harjit Singh Adaltiwal and member Mr.Gurmeet Singh Jaura,.
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PUNJAB CABINET LED BY CM PAYS OBEISANCE AT SRI HARMANDIR SAHIB, DURGIANA TEMPLE AND HISTORIC RAM TIRATH TO THANK THE ALMIGHTY
THE ENTIRE FOCUS OF NEW GOVERNMENT WOULD BE TO FULFILL THE ASPIRATIONS OF THE PEOPLE AND TO ENSURE OVER ALL DEVELOPMENT, PEACE AND COMMUNAL HARMONY- BADAL
CABINET PARTAKE LANGAR AT SRI HARIMANDIR SAHIB
Amritsar, March 16
Punjab Chief Minister Mr Parkash Singh Badal along with Deputy Chief Minister Mr Sukhbir Singh Badal and all the other Cabinet colleagues today paid obeisance at Sri Harimandir Sahib, Durgiana Temple and historic Ram Tirath to thank the almighty for blessing them with a spectacular win in the recently concluded assembly elections of the state.
The Punjab Cabinet led by Chief Minister Mr Parkash Singh Badal and Deputy Chief Minister Mr Sukhbir Singh Badal reached the Sri Harimandir Sahib complex in the morning to offer prayers and sort blessings of almighty to give enormous strength to serve the people of state with all humility and dedication. Inside the temple complex the Chief Minister Mr Parkash Singh Badal, Deputy Chief Minister Mr Sukhbir Singh Badal and Cabinet Ministers including Bhagat Chunni Lal, Mr Adesh Pratap Singh Kairon, Mr Bikram Singh Majithia, Mr Sikander Singh Maluka, Mr Surjeet Singh Rakhra, Mr Ajit Singh Kohar, Mr Parminder Singh Dhindsa, Mr Madan Mohan Mittal, Mr Sarwan Singh Phillaur, Jathedar Tota Singh, Mr Gulzar Singh Ranike, Mr Sharanjeet Singh Dhillon and Mr Anil Joshi were presented Siropas by the management of Sri Harimandir Sahib. Later on the entire Cabinet also paid obeisance at Shri Akal Takht Sahib. Subsequently under the leadership of the Chief Minister Mr Parkash Singh Badal and Deputy Chief Minister Mr Sukhbir Singh Badal all the ministers went to Durgiana Temple and historic Ram Tirath for paying their obeisance.
Later talking to the media persons in front of the Information Centre of Sri Harmandir Sahib the Chief Minister Mr Parkash Singh Badal said that the entire Cabinet had came to these religious shrines to express their gratitude as the SAD-BJP alliance has by God’s grace staged a historic comeback in Punjab. He reiterated his firm commitment to ensure over all development, peace and communal harmony besides cherishing the aspirations of all sections of the society. Mr Badal said that the SAD-BJP alliance government would be ever indebted to the people of Punjab for reposing unflinching faith in the policies and programs of the government. The Chief Minister hailed the historic mandate in the favour of SAD-BJP alliance as a God sent opportunity to enable us to complete our unaccomplished agenda to its logical end for emerging Punjab as a front runner state in the country. Lauding the impartial role played by the media in the recently concluded polls in the state Mr Badal said that it has further helped in strengthening the democratic values and ethos of Journalism. Replying to a query regarding the top priorities of the alliance government, the Chief Minister said he would soon convene a meeting of the Cabinet to fix the priority of development agenda and subsequently chalk out a time bound strategy to ensure its implementation in right earnest.
Meanwhile the Chief Minister Mr Parkash Singh Badal along with his Cabinet colleagues also visited the historic Jallianwala Bagh to pay tributes to the great martyrs who had laid down their life during the freedom struggle of the country. In the afternoon the Chief Minister and his Cabinet colleagues also partook ‘Langar’ at Sri Harimandir Sahib.
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SAD TERMS UNION BUDGET VISIONLESS DOCUMENT MEANT TO RETARD ECONOMIC GROWTH
IGNORING PUNJAB IN ALLOCATION OF AGRICULTURE DEVELOPMENT FUND WOULD PROVE SUICIDAL FOR THE COUNTRY
UPA TO ROB EVERYONE'S’ POCKET BY IMPOSING SERVICE TAX ON ALL GOODS
Chandigarh, March 16:
Shiromani Akali Dal today strongly lashed at the Union Budget presented by congress led UPA government, terming it as a visionless document that was meant to retard the economic growth of the country.
In a statement issued here today, Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal, President Shiromani Akali Dal, said that the union budget was a directionless, non progressive and
unrealistic and has disappointed every section of the society. He said that by ignoring Punjab from the ambit of Agriculture Development Fund, the congress led UPA government has proved its inherent anti-Punjab bias, that too at the cost of self-sufficiency of the country on the food security front. He said that budget has failed to address the problem of Punjab Agriculture for increased allocation for agriculture research, crop diversification, development and popularization of new high-yield genetically modified seeds besides a special package to rejuvenate the 100 years old irrigation network of the granary of the country.
Demanding immediate rollback of the decision to impose enhanced service tax on every service except those in the negative list, Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal said that this decision was meant to rob the pocket of every section of society without giving him a benefit of single penny in the budget. He said that he decried congress led UPA government for ignoring the interests of salaried class especially in the lower bracket by symbolically raising the limit of Income Tax exemption by 20,000. He said that the fact was congress was looking for excuses to punish common masses, who have dared to dump congress party in the oblivion of history in Vidhan Sabha elections in Punjab and other four states.
Seeking immediate rollback of anti-people decisions, Mr. Badal said that Government that has lost majority in the Lok Sabha has no right to impose unwarranted taxes on general public.
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DEPARTMENTAL EXAMINATION FROM APRIL 16, 2012
Chandigarh, March 16:
Central Committee of Examination, Punjab is organizing the next departmental examination of certain categories of Officers/Officials from April 16 to April 20, 2012 at local Lajpat Rai Bhawan in two shifts i.e. from 9.00 A.M. to 12:00 noon and 2:00 to 5:00 P.M.
Disclosing this here today a spokesman of the Punjab Government said that these categories includes Assistant Commissioners/ Extra Assistant Commissioners, I.P.S officers, Civil Judges (Junior Division), Tehsildars/ Revenue Officials, Officers of Forest Department I.F.S., Officers of the Agriculture/ Soil Conservation Services/Horticulture Services, Animal Husbandry & Fisheries department, Wardens/Inspectors of Wild Life Preservation department, Officers/Officials of the department of Jails, Excise and Taxation department, Cooperation, Dairy Development, Block Development and Panchayat Officers, Lady Circle Supervisors of Rural Development and Panchayat Department and Officers of Labour & Employment Departments.
The spokesman further said that those IAS/IPS/PCS (Executive Branch), PCS (Judicial) and other officers who intend to appear in the said examination should send their applications to the Additional Secretary to Government Punjab, Department of Personal and Secretary, Central Committee of Examination (PCS Branch), Punjab Civil Secretariat, Chandigarh, through their Departments in the prescribed Performa by 10th April, 2012. No direct application will be entertained under any circumstances. Incomplete applications will be rejected and no Roll No. will be issued. The candidate, who does not get his Roll No. by 12th April, 2012 should contact the Central Committee of Examinations, the spokesman added.
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MAJOR DHILLON APPOINTED AS POLITICAL SECRETARY TO CHIEF MINISTER
Chandigarh, March 15:
The Punjab Government has appointed Major Bhupinder Singh Dhillon as Political Secretary to the Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal in the rank of minister of state with immediate effect . Disclosing this here today a spokesperson of the Chief Minister's office said that Major Dhillon had also served earlier in the same capacity during the tenure of SAD- BJP government from 1997 to 2002 and again in the last SAD-BJP Ministry. Born to S. Gurraj Singh Dhillon, Ex-Member Parliament on 20th July 1948 at village Badal in Muktsar district, Major Dhillon after completing his education at Lawrence School Sanawar did his training at National Defence Academy, Khadakwasla and Indian Military Academy, Dehradun and was commissioned as 2nd Lieut on 21st December,1969. ------
SUMEDH SINGH SAINI TAKES OVER AS DGP OF PUNJAB
Chandigarh, March 15 :
Mr. Sumedh Singh Saini, IPS took over today as Director General of Police of Punjab. Mr. Saini belongs to 1982 batch of Indian Police Service.
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In a brief ceremony held in the office of DGP, Punjab, the outgoing DGP Mr. Anil Kaushik, while formally handing over the charge to Mr. Saini, wished him a successful tenure as DGP, Punjab. The senior officers of the Punjab Police were also present on the occasion.
On his arrival at the Punjab Police Headquarters, Mr. Saini was presented ceremonial Guard of Honour by a contingent of Punjab Armed Police. After completion of formal handing over—taking over of the charge, a Guard of Honour was also presented to Mr. Anil Kaushik.
Immediately after assuming the charge, Mr. Saini held a meeting with the senior officers from the various Wings of Punjab Police. While interacting with senior officers, Mr. Saini impressed upon them to launch an all out drive to curb crime in general and the menace of drugs trafficking in particular.
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Name |
Proposed Departments |
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1 |
S P S Badal (10) |
1.Personnel |
|
2. |
S SS Badal (2) |
1.Home |
|
3 |
Bhagat Chunni Lal |
1.Local Government |
|
4 |
S SS Phillaur (6-3) |
1.Jails |
|
5. |
S APS Kairon (4-2 |
1.Food and Civil Supplies |
|
6. |
S AS Kohar (4-2) |
1.Transport |
|
7. |
S GS Ranike (4-2) |
1.Animal Husbandry & Fisheries |
|
8. |
Sh Madan Mohan Mittal (4-1 |
1.Health & Family Welfare |
|
9. |
S PS Dhindsa (4-1 |
1.Finance & Planning |
|
10. |
S JS Sekhon (3-2) |
Irrigation |
|
11. |
S Tota Singh (3-1) |
1. Agriculture |
|
12. |
Bibi Jagir Kaur (3-1) |
1.Rural Water Supply & Sanitation |
|
13. |
Sh SK Jyani (3-1) |
1.Forest & Wildlife |
|
14. |
S BS Majitha (2-1) |
1. Revenue & Rehablitation |
|
15. |
S SS Malooka (2-1) |
1.Education |
|
16 |
Sh Anil Joshi (2-0) |
1.Industry & Commerce |
|
17. |
S SS Rakhra (1-0) |
1.Rural Development & Panchayat |
|
18. |
S SS Dhillon (1) |
1. PWD |
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PUNJAB NOTIFIES THE APPOINTMENT OF MR S.C. AGRAWAL AS CHIEF COMMISSIONER OF ‘PUNJAB RIGHT TO SERVICE COMMISSION’
CHANDIGARH, MARCH 15: The Punjab Government today issued notification appointing Mr. S.C. Agrawal as Chief Commissioner of Punjab Right To Service Commission under proviso to sub-section 2 of section 13 of Punjab Right To Service Act 2011.
According to the notification issued by the Punjab Government, Mr. Agrawal would have to resign or seek retirement from Indian Administrative Service on the date on which he assumes office as Chief Commissioner of Punjab Right To Service Commission.
Mr. Agrawal would hold the office for a term of five years from the date of on which he enters upon the respective office or until attains the age of 65 years, whichever is earlier and he will not be entitled for reappointment.
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3 DGPs and 5 SSPs transferred
Chandigarh March 15:
The Punjab Government today ordered the transfers of 3 DGPs and 5 SSPs with immediate effect. According to an official spokesman Mr. Anil Kaushik, IPS, DGP Punjab has been posted as Director General of Police -cum –CMD Punjab Police Housing Corporation Chandigarh. Mr. Rajan Gupta, IPS has been posted as DGP Punjab State Human States Rights Commission and Mr. Sanjeev Gupta, IPS as DGP, Security and Vigilance, Punjab, Powercom
.
The Spokesman further informed that Mr. Indermohan Singh, PPS has been posted as SSP/Sri Muktsar Sahib, Mr. Surjit Singh, PPS as SSP/ Barnala, Mr. Gurpreet Singh Gill, PPS as SSP/Patiala, Mr. Snehdeep Sharma as SSP/Moga and Mr. Sukhdev Singh PPS as SSP/Mansa.
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KNITWEAR INDUSTRY IN PUNJAB DEMANDS ABOLITION OF EXCISE DUTY ON READYMADE GARMENTS
Chandigarh, March 15
Knitwear Industry in Punjab has demanded abolition of Excise Duty on readymade garments and continuation of ‘Technology Up gradation Fund Scheme (TUFS)’ in the Union Budget- 2012.
In a Pre-Budget suggestions for consideration to the Union Government for the betterment of the Industry for the Union Budget-2012 , the Knitwear Club urged that the Textile/Garment industry was facing big threat of garments imported from China, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka. It underlined that due to large scale of production and support from their Governments, their products were much cheaper and it was not possible for the industry here to increase the price of its products. They requested to abolish the excise duty imposed on readymade garments in the union budget-2012.
In other suggestions club also demanded that the TUF Scheme on new machines should be continued after March 31, 2012. It urged that after the implementation of NAREGA ,the industry was facing the shortage of labour and trying to save itself by upgrading its technology so that the requirement of labour was minimized.
It has also been suggested that the Associations/ Organizations like Knitwear Club and others who were service oriented, non-profit making organizations working for the upliftment of the industry should be excluded from the service tax. Besides that Knitwear Club also demanded that the GST should be introduced in place of CST in this competitive ambience for the survival of the industry. With the implementation of GST, the industry would increase the exports, create revenue and also generate more employment opportunities.
It may be Knitwear Club (Regd.) Ludhiana, a registered non-profit making body in the form of an Association of 1000 members manufacturing textile/knitwear goods at Ludhiana, Punjab has demanded Abolition of Excise Duty on readymade garments imposed in the union budget-2011.
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GVK THERMAL POWER PLANT AT GOINDWAL SAHIB TO BE OPERATIONAL BY MARCH 2013
CHANDIGARH, March 15, 2012
The poll promise of SAD-BJP alliance government of making Punjab a power surplus state would be soon a reality as in a leap forward towards it the GVK Thermal Power Plant at Goindwal sahib would start operating by March 2013.
Disclosing this here today a spokesperson of the Chief Minister’s Office said that Mr. GVK. Raddy, Chairman-cum-Managing Director of GVK Power and Infrastructure Limited today called on Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal and Deputy chief Minister Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal at their residence separately to apprise them about the status of the ongoing project. Mr Raddy informed the Chief Minister that ongoing work on the GVK Thermal Power Plant at Goindwal sahib would be completed in the stipulated time period and the plant would start generating power by March 2013.
Lauding the efforts of the SAD-BJP alliance government in making the state power surplus by creating a congenial atmosphere in the power sector, Mr Raddy also assured the Chief Minister that they would be expanding the existing capacity of the project for which a requisite extension in the MoU with the state government would be made soon. Mr Raddy also apprised the Chief Minister about the problem faced by them for getting the Coal linkage for the proposed project from the Ministry of Coal, Government of India after which Mr Badal assured him that they would raise the matter with the Union government so that the extended project could be started in expedite manner.
Earlier in a separate meeting with the Deputy Chief Minister Mr Sukhbir Singh Badal, Mr Raddy informed him that the work on ongoing project was in full swing and more than 60% of the work has already been completed. Mr GVK Raddy also said that they were honoured for being a part of the state government’s initiative to facilitate the residents of the state by ensuring regular power supply to them.
During the meeting Deputy Chief Minister Mr Sukhbir Singh Badal also appreciated the role GVK group in completing the project in a time bound manner. The Deputy Chief Minister said that after the starting of this project the power needs of the state would be fulfilled to a huge extent which would provide a fillip in accelerating the all round development of the state. He also assured Mr Raddy that state government would ensure full co-operation to them in completing this ambitious project at the earliest.
Mr Raddy also congratulated both the leaders for their party’s
historical win in the recently concluded assembly elections of the
state. Prominent amongst those present on the occasion included
Secretary Power Mr Anirudh Tiwari and Chairman of the Punjab State
Power Corporation Limited (PSPCL) Mr KD Chaudhary.
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