CHANDIGARH, MAY 14: The Punjab Deputy Chief Minister Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal today announced the fructification of promises made to NRIs during NRI Sammellan and today gave final touches to an integrated plan to make NRIs lasting partners in the progress and prosperity of the state.

Accompanied by NRI Affairs Minister Mr. Bikram Singh Majithia, Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal today reviewed the implementations of the decisions besides giving final touches to holistic plan. Mr. Badal said that the purpose of lasting relations with the Punjabi Diaspora was not to seek investment but to strengthen their emotional bond with their motherland. He said that under the New Housing policy and investment policy; Punjab has set aside 10% quota for Punjabi Diaspora in all PUDA approved schemes and industrial estates besides setting up a separate link for fast track approval in the industrial investment portal. He said that with the concerted efforts of all departments this major promise has been made a reality.

Impressing upon the need for taking care of the families of NRIs to give them emotional support, Mr. Badal said tha he has issued directions to increase the marriage registration officer from registered 22 to 190 so as to expedite the registration of their marriages, understanding the limited time available to them during their stay in the country. He said that earlier only DROs were empowered to register the marriages but now the powers have been delegated to all Tehsildars and Naib Tehsildars. He said that he has issued directions to all field officers to be accessible to NRIs and perform their job on priority.

Describing compulsory registration of marriages and Human Smuggling Acts as path breaking acts, Mr. Badal said that with the compulsory marriage registration act, we will be able to tackle fraudulent marriages by NRIs and with the Human Smuggling Act, we would be able to tackle the menace illegal travel agents, playing with the lives and hard earned money of Punjabi youth, who were being lured to foreign lands on illegal permits.

Mr. Majithia informed the Deputy Chief Minister that Punjab Government was in process of taking a path breaking decision, in which an NRI can get tenant evicted from multiple properties, multiple times. He said that earlier he was allowed only once for a single property. He informed that similar amendment was also being effected for Rural Properties also.

Meeting the long pending demands of NRIs to guard their properties in Punjab, Mr. Majithia informed the Deputy Chief Minister said that a Punjab Government Undertaking PESCO would supply professionally trained ex-servicemen guards for this purpose on a nominal payment. He said that NRIs on visit to Punjab can also seek deployment of PESCO guards for personal security. He said that PESCO has been asked to raise a separate battalion for NRIs.

It was informed in the meeting that one more NRI Police Stations have been opened in NRI dominant districts including Amritsar. He said that instructions have already been issue to seek approval of DSP before registering any FIR against NRI to check bogus complaints.

The Home Department informed that Punjab and Haryana High Court has been requested to setup three Sub Divisional Judicial Magistrate Courts at Moga, Jalandhar and Hoshiarpur and an Appellate Court at Jalandhar for civil and criminal cases of NRIs and requisite funds have been provided for the same.

Asking the GMADA to finalise the blueprint of NRI Bhawan at Mohali, Mr. Badal said that he would be laying the foundation stone of bhawan in the month of July.

Raising the problem of NRIs, Mr. Majithia said that NRIs on visit to India were facing the problem of sim cards and Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal has already taken up this issue for its early solution.

Prominent amongst those present in the meeting including, Mr. S.S. Channi, Principal Secretary NRI Affairs, Mr. Navreet Singh Kang, Financial Commissioner Revenue and Public Relations, Mrs. Vini Mahajan, Secretary Health, Mr. Vishwajit Khanna, Secretary Defence Service Welfare, Mr. B.S. Sudan, Secretary Home, Mr. Priyank Bharti, Director Local Government and Mr. Manvesh Singh Sidhu, Chief Administrator PUDA.

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SUMMER VACATIONS IN GOVT. SCHOOLS FROM JUNE 1 TO JUNE 30

CHANDIGARH, MAY 14: The Punjab Government has announced that summer vacations in all the Government Schools would starts from June 1, 2013.

Disclosing this here today, Mr. Sikandar Singh Maluka, Education Minister Punjab said that the duration of these summer vacations would be one month i.e. from June 1 to June 30, 2013. The Education Minister informed that earlier these holidays have to be started from June 10, 2013. But keeping in view the revising temperature in the state these holidays have been rescheduled.

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PSPCL INVITES APPLICATIONS FOR DIRECTOR DISTRIBUTION AND HUMAN RESOURCES POSTS

CHANDIGARH, MAY 14

Punjab State Power Corporation Ltd (PSPCL) has invited applications for the post of Director (Distribution) and Director (Human Resources) at Patiala till May 30, 2013.

As per details, basic qualifications for the post of Director (Distribution) are Bachelor's degree of a recognized institution in Electrical/Electronics/Mechanical/Computer Science Engineering. The person should have at least twenty five years of total service in PSEB or its successor entities out of which at least 10 years should be in the field of electricity distribution. He should also have worked for at least three years in a position of SE/CE in the field of Procurement/Enforcement/Store/Design/Planning/Construction or Operation/ Maintenance of electricity distribution system. He should have worked at the level of CE at least for one year.

Similarly for the post of Director (Human Resources), basic qualification is Masters Degree in Human Resources from a reputed and recognized institution/MBA in Human resources. Degree in engineering shall be preferred. Applicant should have passed Punjabi as a subject upto Matric level. Applicant should have at least twenty five years of total experience as Human Resource professional and should be working in a senior position in the rank of Director of the Company or one level below for at least two years in an organization with employee strength of at least 2,000.

For both posts minimum age is 50 years and not above 60 years at the time of appointment. Applications should reach in the office of the Secretary, Department of Power, Government of Punjab, Room No. 423, 4th floor, Punjab Civil Secretariat-2, Sector-9, Chandigarh latest by May 30, 2013.

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ORDERS TO GIVE TA/DA TO OFFICIALS/EMPLOYEES DEPLOYED FOR ELECTION DUTY

CHANDIGARH, MAY 14:

The Punjab Government has issued orders to give TA/DA as per their entitlement to the officials/employees, who have been deployed for the elections of Zila Parishad and Block Samitis to be held on May 19.

According to an official spokesman that the Election Department has issued directions to all Department Heads, Divisional Commissioners and Deputy Commissioners to provide TA/DA to those officers/employees of various departments performing duties during the elections of Zila Parishad and Block Samitis according to the rules/instructions of the Punjab Government.

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OPERATION AND MAINTENANCE OF WATER SUPPLY AND SEWERAGE SYSTEMS FOR 6 CITIES IN PUNJAB ON PPP MODE

CHANDIGARH, MAY 14:

The Punjab Government has chalked out a comprehensive plan for the overall development of the urban area of the state. In the first phase of the plan the water supply and sewerage facility would be provided to the 100% population of the cities.

Disclosing this here today Mr. Chunni Lal Bhagat, Minister of Local Bodies Department said that under “Punjab Urban Development Mission programme” holistic urban development has been envisaged with full coverage of all the basics amenities. One of the key objectives of PUDM is 100% coverage of water supply and sewerage system for the urban local bodies and its qualitative maintenance.

The Minister further said that in order to provide the above requirements of the water and sewerage facilities in the 6 Municipal Corporations namely Amritsar, Ludhiana, Jalandhar, Bathinda, Ajitgarh (Mohali) and Patiala, PMIDC has invited the expression of interest for engagements of agencies. He said that water and sewerage infrastructure of these ULBs to be built and operated on PPP mode.

The scope of works included rehabilitation and up gradation of existing system, operation & maintenance for a period of 20 years of the entire water supply and sewerage system including intake, raw water pumping main, water treatment plant, clean water pumping main, reservoir, distribution system, house service connection, sewerage treatment plant, sewerage pumping station, sewage collection system, metering and combined billing for water supply and sewerage for 100% dwelling in the project area.

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PUNJAB TO PROMOTE ORGANIC FARMING

FARMERS’ TO BE TECHNICALLY TRAINED

Chandigarh May14:

The Punjab government has formulated an extensive training programme for the farmers aimed at encouraging them to adopt the latest techniques in crop cultivation and also promote organic farming in the state.

Disclosing this here today, a spokesman of the government said that the government would impart training to the farmers in the government run Farmers Training Centers including PAU Ludhiana and Khalsa College, Amritsar. About three lac farmers are being imparted training every year during Rabi and Kharif seasons and also by holding specialized training course in agriculture & other allied subjects. 6016 training camps/programmes were organized to disseminate latest farm technology amongst farmers under various schemes like Training, National Food security Mission, Extension Reforms etc.

Adding further, he said that besides this the state government would lay more emphasis on the organic farming especially in the Malwa belt where due to the excessive use of pesticides together with water contamination has caused tremendous damage to human beings. Focused awareness campaign would be generated among the farmers to change their mindset guiding and helping them in the proper implementation of organic farming techniques. Organic fertilizer and organic pesticide would be arranged for healthy cultivation, he said. To Increase agro-bio diversity through mix-cropping, conserving water resources and increasing genetic diversity would be introduced.

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FOREST COVER TO BE ENHANCED FROM 7 % TO 15 %: JAYANI

CHGANDIGARH, MAY 14:

The Punjab government under ‘Greener Punjab Mission’ would enhance forest cover in the state from existing 7 percent to 15 percent.

Disclosing this here today Mr. Surjit Kumar Jayani, Forest and Wild Life Security Minister, Punjab said that under this mission, 4.75 crore saplings are purposed to be plant each year in the state. This mission would continue uptill 8 years. He said that the department would plant/distribute 475 lac saplings for an estimated area of 20,000 hectare with the investment of Rs.122.42 crore in the financial year 2013-14. The area of nurseries established for cloned plants of Popular would also be extended up to an area of 300 hectare.

Mr. Jyani further said that during the financial year 2012-13, department has reorganized the forest beats in the state with the motive to bring more and more villages under their jurisdiction. He said that the department has conducted survey in the 9000 villages of the state to assess the availability of free land holdings belonging to various department and village panchyat, where plantation drive could be started. ‘To ensure the smooth working of the department, 407 forest guards have recently been recruited,” the Minister added.

He said that during the years 2012-13 the department has got planted 1.32 crore saplings through various other departments. He added that in the same year the department has distributed/planted 463 lac saplings, which were produced in the 252 nurseries of the state.

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SWIPE SYSTEM OF PAYMENTS TO ARTHIYAS A GREAT SUCCESS

23 THOUSAND ARTHIYAS AVAILED THE SERVICES

CHANDIGARH, MAY 14:

The ambitious project of “Farmer-Arthiyas Information and Remittance Online Network”, an online payment system to the commission agents, has registered a great success as 23 thousand Commission Agents got themselves registered in favour of this online payment.

Disclosing this here today an official spokesperson of the Punjab Government said that now the payment to the Commission Agent is being made through ‘Rupee Debit Cards’, they could withdraw the payment using swipe cards. He said that the government has successfully credited an amount of Rs. 11 thousand crore to the farmer’s accounts under this online payment system. He said that the online payment to the Arthiyas was started last year on trial basis through Pungrain. Viewing the success of this system, online payment was introduced on permanent basis from this Rabi season.

The spokesperson further said that the payment of Dami (commission of Arthiyas) is also being made through Rupee Debit Card. He said that 11 banks are presently empanelled for providing this online payment to the Arthiyas, whereas 7 banks have installed 1750 Swipe Machines in the Procurement centres of Punjab. Arthiyas are being informed about any transaction through SMSs. He said that this Rupee Swipe Card could also be used in any other ATM.

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Not to terminate the services of an employee, who has become mentally ill during the service

CHANDIGARH, MAY 14: The Punjab Government today issued directions to all the departments not to terminate the services of an employee, who has become mentally ill during the service.

According to an official spokesman, keeping in view the judicial pronouncements on the issue, in such cases no step would be taken without due consideration of suitability of employees to any other post and without properly counseling the employee about his rights. The Departments have been told that whatever compassionate assistance scheme was available in the department that contained the provision for giving employment to the dependant of such employees, the Department would take appropriate steps by providing dependant suitable employment.

CM GIVES NOD FOR 40% SUBSIDY ON SOLAR IRRIGATION PUMPS

RS 5 CRORE SANCTIONED FOR SUBSIDY ON SOLAR PUMPS

STEP AIMED AT PROMOTING CROP DIVERSIFICATION IN THE STATE

Chandigarh, May 12-

In a bid to further incentivize the farmers of the state to make optimum use of solar pumps for irrigation, the Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today announced 40% subsidy on these pumps towards the promotion of state’s flagship program of Agriculture diversification.

Disclosing this here today a spokesperson of the Chief Minister’s Office said that, the Chief Minister also sanctioned Rs 5 crore for providing subsidy to the farmers besides fruits and vegetable growers on these solar pumps. It may be recalled that a solar pump costs nearly Rs 2.50 lakh of which 40% (Rs 1 lakh) and 30% (Rs 75000) as subsidy is borne by the state Government and Government of India (GoI) respectively and the balance 30% which works out to be Rs 75000 has to be paid by the beneficiary farmer. The Chief Minister however said that the priority would be given to those farmers opting for crop diversification program embarked by the state government with the twin objective to shift the major chunk of cultivable land under paddy to alternative crops like sugarcane, cotton, maize, soyabean, oilseeds, pulses besides fruits and vegetables on one hand and ensuring remunerative returns to the farmers of their produce on other.

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JOSHI BATS FOR TRANSPARENT PROCUREMENT PROCESS IN THE DEPARTMENT

· INSTRUCTS TO STRICTLY GO FOR E-TENDERING PROCESS

CHANDIGARH, MAY 12:

Mr. Anil Joshi, Technical Education Minister, Punjab has issued strict instructions to the technical Education Department to streamline the process of purchase and bring total transparency in the purchase systems. He asked the department to strictly go by e-tendering process wherever purchases were heavy.

Disclosing this here today a spokesman of the Punjab Government said that Minister instructed that the tender notices must be uploaded on the department’s website as well as that individual letters must be sent to prominent manufacturers/firms dealing in the matter. He said that due publicity should be given to all tender notices to seek maximum competition. He clarified that the specifications must be broad based and not tailor made to suit any particular manufacturer/firm. He said that the department should be cautious against collusive bidding or pool system in the tendering. The spokesman said that these directions have been issued to bring total transparency in the purchase system besides eradicating the chances of corrupt practices besides ensuring purchase of quality products.

The Minister directed that effort should be made to depute specialist in the procurement process and they should be invited during the opening of the tenders as special invitees. He also asked the officers to consider the DGS&D rate contract for the procurement.

Warning against any dereliction, the Minister has said that he would be asking for special audit of the contracts wherever he would receive any complaint and guilty officer would not be spared.

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CM GREETS PEOPLE ON THE EVE OF PARSHURAM JAYANTI

Chandigarh, May 12- Punjab Chief Minister Mr Parkash Singh Badal today felicitated the people of state on the eve of ‘Parshuram Jayanti’.

In a message, the Chief Minister exhorted the people to imbibe the ideals propagated by Bhagwan Parshuram Ji, so that justice and equality can be ensured in the society. Mr Badal said that Bhagwan Parshuram Ji stood for protecting the basic tenets of religion, truth, universal love, compassion and righteousness. “The life and philosophy of Bhagwan Parshuram Ji teach us that irrespective of our caste, religion and profession, we should fight injustice with all our might”, he added.

The Chief Minister appealed to the people to celebrate this auspicious occasion collectively by rising above the parochial considerations of caste, colour, creed and religion.

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SUKHBIR GREETS PEOPLE ON THE EVE OF

BHAGWAN PARSHURAM JAYANTI

Chandigarh, May 12: Punjab Deputy Chief Minister Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal today extended his heartiest greetings to the people of Punjab on the eve of Lord Parshuram Jayanti.

In a message on the eve of Lord Parshuram Jayanti the Deputy Chief Minister said that Lord Parshuram ji was 6th Avtar of Vishnu, who took birth on this earth to fight the wrongs of high and mighty. Mr. Badal said that Lord Parshuram amalgamated Bhakti and Shakti to protect oppressed and under privileged on this earth.

Calling upon people to follow the teaching of Lord Parshuram, Mr. Badal said that this day gives us an opportunity to move on the righteous path to achieve our goals in life.

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MAJITHIA GREETS PEOPLE ON THE EVE OF

BHAGWAN PARSHURAM JAYANTI

Chandigarh, May 12: Punjab Revenue and Public Relations Minister Mr. Bikram Singh Majithia today extended his warm greetings to the people of the state on the eve of Bhagwan Parshuram Jayanti.

Mr. Majithia said that Bhagwan Parshuram ji was 6th Avtar of Vishnu, who took birth on this earth to save the interest of people suffering from the hands of mighty ones. Mr. Majithia called upon people to follow the teachings of Bhagwan Parshuram ji.

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PUNJAB STRONGLY REFUTES JAKHAR'S CONTENTION REGARDING WRONG STATEMENT IN SUPREME COURT

Chandigarh May 11:-

The Punjab Government today refuted the claim of Mr. Sunil Jakhar, Leader of Congress Legislative Party that any misstatement was made to the Hon'ble Supreme Court. The Government spokesman stated that Police Security Board (Commission) was constituted on 17.4.2008. It held its first meeting on 1.1.2009. The same was chaired by the Chief Minister and attended by Mr. N.P.S. Aulakh, IPS, the then DGP, Mr. R.I. Singh, IAS, the then Chief Secretary and Mr. Sudhir Mittal, IAS the then Principal Secretary Home. Its proceedings were put up before the Hon'ble Supreme Court vide Annexure R-1 by the State, in affidavit filed on 3.5.2009.

As far as the Police Establishment Board (Committee) is concerned the State Government intimated that the Punjab Police Act, 2007 provides for its creation in section 32. A similar provision in the Act (Section 54) provides for the Police Complaints Authority.

The Spokesman reiterated that there was no question of stating anything false in any affidavit and the Government exercises its constitutional obligation with a complete sense of responsibility.

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SARABJIT’S LIFE COULD HAVE BEEN SAVED IF CENTRE HAD ACTED TIMELY- BADAL

CM HANDS OVER CHEQUE OF RS 1 CRORE TO FAMILY OF SARABJIT

ANNOUNCES POST OF NAIB TEHSILDAR FOR ELDER AND TEACHER FOR YOUNGER DAUGHTER OF THE MARTYR

MAJITHIA LAUDS DALBEER KAUR FOR LAUNCHING VIGOROUS CAMPAIGN TO SECURE RELEASE OF SARABJIT

Bhikhiwind (Tarn Taran), May 11-

Punjab Chief Minister Mr Parkash Singh Badal today said that had the Congress led UPA government at the centre acted timely and diligently then the precious life of Shaheed Sarabjit Singh could have been saved.

Addressing a mammoth gathering here to pay homage to Shaheed Sarabjit Singh at his bhog ceremony, the Chief Minister said that the state assembly had passed resolutions four times and send it to the Centre urging them to take prompt action for ensuring the early release of Shaheed Sarabjit Singh from Pakistan jail but the Union government had not taken the matter seriously. However he said that the entire country in general and the Punjab government in particular was with the family of Shaheed Sarabjit Singh in this hour of crisis. Mr Badal while handing over the cheque of Rs 1 crore to Shaheed Sarabjit’s family said that the state government was committed for their well being.

The Chief Minister categorically said that Shaheed Sarabjit Singh was a national martyr, who had suffered endless agonies in the Pakistani jail for being an Indian. He also announced that the elder daughter of Shaheed Sarabjit Singh would be recruited as Naib Tehsildar in the state government whereas the younger daughter would be given the post of teacher adding that the Cabinet clearance for both these posts would be given by the Council of Ministers in the very next meeting. Mr Badal said that lending a helping hand to the family of Shaheed Sarabjit Singh was the moral duty of the state government.

Acclaiming the efforts made by the family of Shaheed Sarabjit Singh to get him released from the Pakistani Jail, the Chief Minister said that due to their concerted efforts the entire country had prayed for the release of Shaheed Sarabjit Singh who had spent more than 23 years in Pakitsan jail. Showering praise on Shaheed Sarabjit Singh’s sister Mrs Dalbeer Kaur for her pledge to secure the release of other prisoners lodged in Pakistan Jail, Mr Badal said that the state government would extend wholehearted support and co-operation to her in this noble cause.

Addressing the gathering Revenue and Information & Public Relations Minister Mr Bikram Singh Majithia, while sharing his heartfelt condolences with the family said that the state government would extend all sort of support and co-operation to them whenever needed by them. Mr Majithia lauded the efforts of Shaheed Sarabjit Singh’s sister Mrs Dalbeer Kaur in launching a massive nationwide campaign by mobilizing people’s opinion to mount pressure on the national governments of India and Pakistan for seeking clemency for him, who was on death row adding he said that we should make concerted efforts to secure the release of innocent Indians lodged in various jails across the Pakistan.

Prominent amongst those present on the occasion included Cabinet Ministers Mr Adesh Partap Singh Kairon, Mr Chunni Lal Bhagat and Mr Gulzar Singh Ranike, Chief Parlimentray Secretary Mr Virsa Singh Valtoha, Member Parliament Dr Rattan Singh Ajnala and State BJP Chief Mr Kamal Sharma.

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Chhina seeks independent probe into assets of Pawan Bansal

(Rajinder Mohan Singh Chhina)

Amritsar, May 11

Bharitya Janata Party state vice president Rajinder Mohan Singh Chhina today sought special investigations into the personal assets of former Union Railway Minister Pawan Bansal whom was sacked from Cabinet after his name figures in `railgate’. He said Bansals’ personal wealth and that of his family members and relatives has increased manifold ever since he became minister and the public has the right to know how assets have grown rapidly.

Chhina who was speaking at a party’s public meeting at Gwal Mandi along with local BJP general secretary Tarun Chugh and secretary Kewal Kumar said Bansal’s nephew Vijay Singla was caught by CBI taking Rs.90 lakhs for the plum posting to a bureaucrat who had sought the posting at the negotiations of Rs.10 crore bribe. ``This shows how the posts are being sold under the Congress led UPA regime. This also shows how corrupt is the UPA government which is face to face with one after the other scams’’, said Chhina.

He said Bansals’ companies including the real estate entities own by his relatives and sons have shown huge growth. He said the episodes relating the CBI arresting Singla also shows how the Railway is marked by corruption, nepotism and mismanagement while the general public is being burdened by passengers and freight fare hike every now and then. Chhina was honoured with sirpoas by youth BJP leader Ajay Kumar and South Indian Sewak Sabha in the locality. BJP district head Naresh Sharma, youth BJP district head Avinash Shaila, Councilors Chandershekhar Sharma, Charanjit Duggal, RK safri, Rajan, Manjit Manga, Pankaj and others were present.

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EcoAmritsar formed to launch Amritsar Foundation Day on July 6 for a sustainable city

Amritsar, the city of the Golden Temple, shall celebrate annually its Foundation Day, the day it was established by Sri Guru Ram Dass jee.

This year the day falls on 06July 2013, and Eco Amritsar shall join hands with the SGPC, the administration, NGO’s and citizens at large to

Engage with the people of this Holy City to care for its natural resources and preserve its habitat and heritage for the future.

Said Mr. Gunbir Singh, who has been asked by Eco Sikh of America to head Eco Amritsar, “A sustainable, clean and well meaning solution is needed

For the city. It is citizens who adopt the maxim of Amritsar-My City, My Pride, My Responsibility, that are welcome to join in this holistic program. The

endeavour seeks to synergise the strengths of like minded organisations and people towards a proud future for the city.”

A meeting of Eco Amritsar, held over the weekend, took stalk of the developments pertaining to Amritsar initiated by Eco Sikh:

Today, the city is one of the founder members of the international Green Pilgrim Network. Both the district administration through Mr. KS Pannu, and SGPC through Mr. Dalmegh Singh were co-promoters of this recognition in Italy. Subsequently, Mr. Roop Singh, Secretary SGPC, Mr. Gunbir Singh as WWF Punjab chairman and Ravneet Singh, EcoSikh attended the United Nations ICLEI meet of 140 Nations at Hyderabad. Now a mandate for the city has been established for Eco Amritsar that reads :To be a wholehearted catalyst in working with all stakeholders and concerned citizen groups for a progressive execution of a sustainable roadmap of Amritsar City.

Eco Amritsar committee includes: Gunbir Singh, AIPL Col. Kuldeep Singh Sandhu, Punjab Pollution Control Board’s Kuldeep Singh, Roop Singh, a Sikh Scholar and SGPC's secretary, Dr. Balwinder Singh from Guru Nanak Dev University, Dr. H.P.Singh of GNDU, Arvinder Singh Chamak President of All India Brick Kiln Association, Amritsar Vikas Manch, Dr. Dharamvir Singh from Chief Khalsa Diwan, Dr. Gurpreetinder Singh, psychiatrist, Indu Arora of Voice of Amritsar, Dr. Amrik Singh, President of Indian Medical Association in Amritsar, and Ravneet Singh, EcoSikh Program Manager in India. Dr. Rajwant Singh from Washington will also be a part of the group. This group will also engage people from all over the world to join in this drive via social media. Baba Sewa Singh of Khadur Sahib and other learned members of the Sant Samaj shall be approached to lead the plantation and sustainability drive.

The Amritsar Foundation Day celebrations shall include tree plantations and greenification drives, art competitions and exhibition, green marches, street folk theater (nukkad natak), sustainable health fair by the medical community, video presentations, awareness campaign and bill boards by major national and international businesses. Natural remediation to agriculture and urban green belts shall be showcased. Media as print, audio and telemedia support shall be sought, alongwith social media and mobile phone application for engaging citizen activism.

“We have high hopes for Amritsar Foundation Day on July 6th and we are confident that it will reinforce the love and care for this spiritual city” said President EcoSikh Dr. Rajwant Singh. He added, “Time has come that we commit ourselves to this important task of preserving Amritsar’s glory for generations to come. This city has impacted country’s history in many positive ways and we are sure this will be another great way to inspire and lead the nation.”

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SC Sub Plan controversy:

Punjab Chief secy to appear before SC panel on May 13

Chandigarh, May 11.

National Commission for Scheduled Castes will conduct a hearing on the issue of non-implementation of the Scheduled Castes Sub Plan in Punjab on May 13.

Earlier Dr PL Punia, chairman of the NCSC had directed the Punjab Government to carry out a detailed exercise to look into the non-implementation of welfare schemes in the state. He also asked the state to present an Action Taken Report by 13 May, 2013. Chief Secretary Rakesh Singh, Principal Secretary Finance Satish Chandra and Secretary Welfare Anurag Aggarwal were present during the hearing of the complaint lodged by Paramjit Singh Kainth, president of the Chamar Mahan Sabha."On March 4 the three Punjab senior officials were summoned by the SC panel in Delhi to explain why the SC Sub Plan had not been implemented. They had failed to give a satisfactory reply," said Kainth.

As per the Planning Commission guidelines, the Scheduled Castes Sub Plan is to be prepared every year and its allocation should be at least in proportion to Scheduled Caste population. Punjab has 28.85% SC population. The state government had allocated Rs 4039 crores in the financial year 2012- 2013 for the purpose.

The Sub Plan amount is spent on schemes for upliftment of Scheduled Castes by making provisions of residential schools, student hostels, coaching centres for competitive examinations in all districts, reimbursement of college fees and Self-financing course, working women hostels etc.

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Dr Kiran Bedi's Navjyoti India Foundation signs MoU again with Aryans Group of Colleges

Chandigarh 11 May

Dr Kiran Bedi, First woman IPS officer of India, today signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) again with Aryans Group of Colleges in Chandigarh Press Club, Chandigarh. According to the MoU, deserving and needy students will be given scholarships at Aryans Group of Colleges in various courses. This MoU will help these students in completing their education.

Dr Kiran Bedi and Dr Anshu Kataria, Chairman, Aryans Group of Colleges signed the extension of MoU in which 20 students in each course like B.Tech, B.Tech LEET, M.Tech, MBA, BBA, BCA, Polytechnic Diploma, BA, B.Sc, B.Com etc. will avail the benefit of scholarship. Those students who are interested in getting this scholarship on merit cum means basis, may contact on 098762-99888, 098765-99888

On the occasion, Dr Kiran Bedi introduced the students who were selected 3 years back for scholarship to media.

Before addressing the Press Conference, Dr Kiran Bedi visited Aryans campus situated at Chandigarh-Patiala Highway, Near Chandigarh and interacted with Aryans students. She also distributed scholarship letters to the students who were selected for scholarship and motivated them.

Interacting with media, Dr Anshu Kataria, Chairman, Aryans Group of Colleges, said that it is a moment of pride for the Group that Dr Bedi has visited the campus for the fourth time. He termed Dr Bedi as a symbol of motivation for the youth, especially girls.

Dr Kiran Bedi said that it is important to dream and then chase them to achieve them. She said, “I, along with Aryans Group of Colleges, have made an attempt to enable students realize their dream of pursuing higher education, especially those who are needy but deserve to study further, through scholarships.”

Dr Bedi added that these scholarships have been awarded to students from various parts of the country and to select more students for scholarship, she will visit North East States, Bihar and Jharkhand, Jammu and Kashmir etc to identify deserving students. She wished luck to students who received scholarship letters.

Aspirations of several students from the country took flight as Dr Kiran Bedi delivered scholarship letters to students belonging to lower segment of society. For enabling the Scholarship Mela, Aryans Group of Colleges has collaborated with Dr Kiran Bedi’s Navjyoti Foundation.

The selected students will be able to pursue higher education at the Aryans Group of Colleges situated on Chandigarh-Patiala highway after getting their scholarship letters.

Dr Kataria added that the scholarships is an endevour of the group to take education to students who want to study ahead but lack the means for taking it up. He added that the group has also collaborated with a bank for enabling this concept.

Dr Kataria further said that the partial scholarship will be doled out purely on merit basis. A part of the scholarship will be paid by Aryans Group of Colleges, a part will be paid by a bank and the remaining part will be borne by the students.

Dr Bedi had earlier stated at the Aryans campus that she intends to support Dr Kataria’s cause of spreading education to students who are downtrodden but deserve to pursue higher studies.

Dr. Kiran Bedi to be in chandigarh in Aryans on 11th May (Saturday)

Mohali 9th May

Dr Kiran Bedi, India’s first Woman Indian Police Service (IPS) officer is visiting Aryans Campus situated on Chandigarh-Patiala Highway, Near Chandigarh on 11th May to inaugurate Scholarship Mela. She will also distribute Scholarships to the students who will be selected for Scholarship by Aryans Group of Colleges. Students who are interested in getting scholarship on the basis of merit

Giving this information to media, Dr. Anshu Kataria, Chairman, Aryans Group of Colleges said that Dr Bedi will explain the key to success to the students studying at Aryans and also the newly admitted students of Aryans at 10 am. After interacting with students at Aryans campus, Dr Bedi will address the Press Conference at 1 pm at Chandigarh Press Club, Chandigarh.

Dr Kiran Bedi will also sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Aryans Group of Colleges for the deserving and financially constrained students who want to pursue higher education. As per the MoU, selected students would get partial scholarship on the basis of Merit cum Means in B.Tech, MBA, BBA, BCA, M.Tech, Diploma etc. at Aryans Group.

It is to be mentioned that 3 years back, Dr Bedi selected some needy students at Aryans campus who were not able to pay study expenses. These students were admitted in Aryans in MBA and BBA courses. A part of the fees was given by Aryans and rest of the fees was financed by Bank in the shape of education loan. Now these students are about to complete their courses and a few of them have already got jobs.

To expose the students to international education standards, employment facilities and opportunities of education abroad Aryans Group has entered into number of tie-ups / collaborations with foreign institutions such as Outline System (USA); LSME (London); AUPP (Australia), Fontys University (Netherland) & ITB (Dublin).

It is to be mentioned that established in 2007, Aryans campus is located on Chandigarh–Patiala highway, near Chandigarh and has lush green 20 acres pollution free campus. Aryans Group has been serving the educational and intellectual interests of the youth in a commendable manner. The group is running Management College, Engineering College, Education College, Nursing College and Junior Science College (+1 & +2 Non Medical).

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BADAL CALLS UNION MINISTER FOR WATER RESOURCES

ASKS FOR TECHNICAL CLEARANCE TO RS. 4128.43 CRORE REJUVENATION CANAL NETWORK PROJECTS

DECLARE STATE’S PROPOSED PROJECT TO REDRESS THE GROUND WATER DEPLETION AS NATIONAL PROJECT

NEW DELHI MAY 09:

Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal urged the Union Minister for Water Resources Mr. Harish Chandra Singh Rawat for seeking his personal intervention for expeditious clearance of Rs. 4128.43 crore projects for rehabilitation, extension, renovation and modernization of the canal network in the state that had already submitted for technical clearance to the Central Water Commission (CWC).

Disclosing this here today a spokesperson of the Chief Minister’s Office said that Mr. Badal called on the Union Minister for Water Resources at his office on Wednesday evening. Mr. Badal apprised the Union Minister during the meeting that water carrying capacity of existing century old canal network in the state had been reduced considerably by 25% and needed to be revamped immediately to enhance its water carrying capacity as 28% area of the total agricultural land in the state was dependent on the canal water for irrigation purposes.

Expressing concern over the rapidly depleting ground water table in Punjab, Mr. Badal urged the Union Minister to direct the Central Ground Water Board for an early clearance of the comprehensive proposal of Rs.3498.40 crore that had already been submitted by the state government to it. Mr. Badal strongly pleaded to declare the project for replenishment of rapidly depleting ground water in Punjab ‘as national project’ in the larger interest of the country besides safeguarding the interests of the Punjab farmers, who had always contributed enormously to ensure nation’s food security, adding he said this alarming issue must be addressed on the top priority without any further delay.

Taking up the issue of relining of Rajasthan feeder and Sirhind feeder, the Chief Minister impressed upon the Mr. Rawat to immediately release a sum of Rs.89.445 crore and Rs.48.286 crore respectively for these projects besides resorting to the same funding pattern of 90:10 (GoI:State) in case of Punjab too, which had already been adopted earlier for Rajasthan under AIBP as both the states were being fed from the same canal. Presently for Punjab the funding formula was 25:75 (GoI:State) which was highly discriminatory. He further asked Mr. Rawat to provide a onetime grant of Rs.159.68 crore for the relining of Sirhind feeder to enable the government to complete the entire project in one go.

Responding positively to the demands put forth by the Chief Minister, Mr. Rawat informed Mr. Badal that the guidelines of 12th plan were yet to be finalized by the Cabinet, adding he said the moment these are cleared in its next meeting on June 15, the Ministry of Water Resources would clear all the pending proposals accordingly. Mr. Rawat also pointed out that the Union Government was mulling to enhance the central share in all the canal projects in future.

The Chief Minister was accompanied by his Special Principal Secretaries Mr. KJS Cheema and Mr. Gaggandip Singh Brar.

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PRINCIPAL SECRETARY VISWAJEET KHANNA AND 53 OTHER DONATES BLOOD

CHANDIGARH, MAY 9: As many as, 54 persons today donated blood units in a blood donation camp organized here by Directorate Defence Services Welfare in association with Red Cross and General Hospital Sector 16.

Inaugurating the camp, Mr. Viswajeet Khanna Principal Secretary defence services welfare, who himself donated blood, exhorted the people of the state to contribute in such social welfare initiatives for the formation of healthy society. Mr. Khanna said that by donating blood we can save thousands of precious lives as Blood Donation was the biggest donation in the world. He said that for the welfare and betterment of society, we should not hesitate to donate blood besides making aware our young generations for this noble cause by eliminating wrong perceptions and affects of blood donation from the minds of general masses.

Emphasizing on the need of initiating massive blood donation drive through out the state, Mr. Khanna called upon the people of the state to play a significant role to make this campaign a big success.

Brigadier Manjit Singh, who was also one of the donor, informed the gathering that not only from Directorate but the employees from the districts were also especially come to Chandigarh to donate blood. He said that all the units donated by officers and employees have been deposited in the blood bank of General Hospital of Sector-16.

Extending thanks to all the donors, Brig Singh said that these blood units would be helpful to save the scores of lives facing critical medical stages. Blood Donation Certificates and Souvenirs were also handed over to the donors on the spot.

A chabbel (sweet water) was also served to the donors and others, who were present on the occasion, outside the camp site.

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NEW PIO, APIOs IN DEPARTMENT OF HOUSING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT

CHANDIGARH, MAY 9: The Punjab Government has designated four officers including two IAS Officers as Appellate Authority, Public Information Officer and Assistant Public Information Officers for Right to Information Act in the Department of Housing and Urban Development.

According to an official spokesman, Mr. Mohinder Singh Sood, Superintendent Housing-1 Branch and Mr. Balbir Singh, Superintendent Housing-II Branch has been appointed as Assistant Public Information Officer while Mr. Pirthi Chand, IAS, Special Secretary Housing and Urban Development and Mr. A Venu Prasad, IAS, Secretary Housing and Urban Development have been designated as Public Information Officer and Appellate Authority respectively

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Government and Govt. aided schools of Punjab will be given first dose of Albendazole tablet

Chandigarh, 8 th May

Sh. Madan Mohan Mittal, Health & Family Welfare Minister, Punjab here today informed that nearly 28 lakh school children studying in Government and Govt. aided schools of Punjab will be given first dose of Albendazole tablet for De-worming on Friday, 10th May 2013 and the 2nd dose would be given on 15th November, 2013. It has also been decided that 10th May and 15th November of each year would be observed as De-worming days. Sh. Mittal appealed the parents of the children studying in these schools to ensure that their children must get this de- Worming dose in their schools.

Health Minister further told that under the School Health Programme of Health & Family Welfare Department, Punjab, medical checkup of children studying in Govt. and Govt. aided schools is conducted twice a year and children found suffering with any ailments are given free treatment in govt. hospitals. Children suffering from eye- sight problems are given spectacles free of cost. He informed that during the year 2012-13, 55664 spectacles were given to such children. Children suffering with heart ailments are provided free treatment through Govt. and other empanelled hospitals. 1913 such children have been referred for treatment out of which 965 children have already undergone surgeries at a cost of Rs. 864 lakh. Similarly, free of cost treatment is also being provided for children suffering from Cancer, and 318 such children have been referred till now at an expenditure of Rs. 360 lakhs and the treatment is in progress. Children found suffering from Thallesemia are given free treatment (Chillation therapy) through 6 Thallesemic Societies. 148 such children are already undergoing treatment and till now Rs. 11 lakh has already been spend for the purpose.

Sh. Mittal stated that as per NFHS-3 survey, 55% children in the country are anaemic. The problem of anaemia is also prevalent among the school children of Punjab. The reason behind anaemia are mainly malnutrition and worms in the stomach and children suffering anaemia feel fatigued and also remain irritated and hence unable to concentrate on studies and also suffer with weak memory and other growth related problem etc. In order to address the issue of malnutrition, children are given meals in afternoon in the schools. Children who are found very anaemic are thoroughly examined in govt. hospitals and given free of cost treatment. Besides this, 52 tablets of Iron- Folic Acid per year are also given to children and 2 doses of de-worming tablets is also given at an interval of six months.

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STATE ELECTION COMMISSION

SEC APPOINTS ELECTION OBSERVERS FOR PANCHAYAT SAMITI AND ZILA PARISHAD

CHANDIGARH, MAY 8:

State Election Commission appointed 30 election observers for smooth and fare conduction of forthcoming Panchayat Samiti and Zila Parishad election. It was disclosed by official spokesman of SEC.

He said that Mr H.S.Pabla,IAS has been appointed observer for SBS Nagar, Mr RK Kaushik,IAS and Mr SS Khara,PCS for Patiala, Ms Anupam Kaler, PCS, Mr Baldev Singh, PCS and Ms Babita,PCS for Jalandhar, Mr Chander Gaind,IAS for Amritsar, Mr Dharampal,IAS and Mr Sameer Kumar,IAS for Ludhiana, Mr Avtar Chand Sharma,PCS for Tarn Taran, Mr Sumeet Jarangal,IAS for Rupnagar, Dr Adapa Karthik,IAS for Kaperthala, Kiran Rosy,PCS for Gurdaspur, Mr Daljit Singh,PCS for Pathankot, Mr Pushpinder singh Kailay,PCS and Mr Rakesh Kumar Popli,PCS for Hoshiarpur, Mr H.S.Kandhola,PCS for Ajitgarh, Mr Navjotpal Singh Randhawa,PCS and Mr Amit Talwar,PCS for Sangrur, Mr Parminderpal Singh,PCS for Barnala, Mrs Hargunjit Kaur,PCS and Mr Kamal Kumar for Fatehgarh Sahib, Mr Amandeep Singh Bhatti,PCS for Ferozpur, Mr Rajat Oberoi,PCS for Fazilka, Mr Kanwalpreet Brar,PCS for Mukatsar, Mr Harbhupinder Singh, and Mr Kairandeep Singh Bhullar,IAS for Moga, Mr Dilraj Singh,PCS for Mansa and Mr Balraj Singh Sekhon,PCS for Bathinda.

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PUNJAB STATE WOMEN COMMISSION

CRIME AGAINST WOMEN: NEED TO SENSITIZE THE GOVERNMENT MACHINERY: PARAMJEET KAUR LANDRAN

CHANDIGARH, MAY 8:

The Punjab State Women Commission today held a high level meeting with the In charge of all women cells set up in the state motive to sensitize the government machinery to curb the crime against women.

While presiding over the meeting Miss Paramjeet Kaur Landran directed the Police Officers, Incharge of Women cells, in the state to solve the sensitive issues related to women on the priority basis. She asked the officers to depute Lady investigating officer in the cases of sexual harassment. She exhorted the officers to sensitize the public about the working of women cells so that they could easily avail the services of police to mitigate the violence against the women folk.

She further said that 277 cases have been come up before the commission for hearing, out of which 40 cases have been solved with mediation between both the parties. She said that the Commission would request the state Government to upgrade the infrastructure in the women cells so that working of these centers could be made swift.

Veer Pal Kaur Tarmala, Shobha Rana (members of Women Commission), Mr. Himmat Singh (Member Secretary of Punjab States Women Commision), Mrs. Shashi Prabha Diwedi (IG, Crime), Rajneesh Kumar Jassal (Deputy Director), Social Security and members of women and children welfare department were part of this meeting.

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Food Security Bill is Congress’s Election Stunt: BJP’s Chhina

Amritsar, May 7, 2013

S. Rajinder Mohan Singh Chhina

Bhartiya Janata Party state vice president Rajinder Mohan Singh Chhina today termed the proposed `food security bill’ by the Congress led UPA as an election stunt with eye on next parliamentary polls. He said if the government was so serious about providing food to all, why it was allowing hundreds of tons of food rotting in godowns and store houses in the country and not giving it to poor.

He cited the directions issued by Supreme Court of India in which the
apex court passed strictures   recently that the food grains should
not be allowed to rot and rather it should be distributed to the poor free of cost. ``But the government did not move. If the UPA is so serious about the food security, why did not it follow direction of the Supreme Court. Let the poor be given the grains instead that getting spoiled in store houses’, said Chhina.

He said the Congress has the history of doling out freebies during the poll times to lure the voters. ``But the people are wise enough and understand the motive behind such moves. They can not be lured by false promises anymore’’, he said. He also said that the UPA which is neck-deep into the corruption is trying to distract the people’s attention away from the `Rail Scam’ involving Rail Minister Pawan Bansal’s nephew Vijay Singla is CBI net in corruption case and `Coalgate’ in which Prime Minister Office and Law Minister are in the eye of the storm.

``Be it is `Garibi Hatao’ or `Beruzgari Door Karo’, the Congress had been luring the people for the last 66 years since the country got idependence. The need of the hour is to  work on ground to really eradicate the poverty in the country’’, said he.

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PEDA RECEIVES PHENOMINAL RESPONSE FOR 300 MW SOLAR POWER PROJECTS IN PUNJAB – MAJITHIA
·       COMPANIES LIKE MOSER BEAR, PUNJ LLYOLD, AZZURE EVINCED KEEN INTEREST FOR SETTING UP THE PROJECTS IN THE STATE
·       Rs 2200 CRORE INVESTMENT IN NEXT FIFTEEN MONTHS
·       7000 PEOPLE TO GET EMPLOYMENT
Chandigarh May 7,
Subsequent to the pre-bid conference held in April, the techno-commercial bids were opened today by Punjab Energy Development Agency (PEDA) and it received a phenomenal response for the development of 300MW Solar Photovoltaic Power (SPV) projects in Punjab said Mr. Bikram Singh Majithia Non Conventional Energy Minister Punjab in a statement issued here today. More than 30 companies participated in the aforesaid bid process and against the targeted allocation for an in house capacity of 300MW solar power projects; total bids for 270 MW were received. Big giants like Moser Bear, Punj Llyod, Azzure have evinced keen interest in setting up these projects in the state. The evaluation of bids shall now follow to verify technological competence of the eligible bidders, based on which, the price bids of the qualifying companies shall be opened.
Mr. Majithia said that it is a huge impetus put forth by the government in the field of Non-conventional energy. The state is set to harness this untapped potential by venturing out in this non-conventional sector. It is a quantum jump in comparison to the current installed capacity of 9 MW.
The Minister described this giant foot forward which is first of its kind shall bring investment to the tune of about Rs.2200 crores by big industries within the next fifteen months, and shall also provide gainful employment to about 7000 people in the state. In addition to this, the solar power projects shall help the state, to meet its peak load requirement of power and shall reduce Green House Gas emission discharge to the tune of about 3.50 lakh tone per annum which is a mammoth step of the government towards providing clean and green energy and which is also the need of the hour for sustainable development.
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STATE ELECTION COMMISSION
NOMINATION PROCESS COMPLETES FOR ZILA PARISHAD AND PANCHAYAT SMITI ELECTION
·       1321 PAPERS RECEIVED FOR ZILA PARISHD WHEREAS 10085 NOMINATIONS FILED FOR PACHAYAT SMITIS

CHANDIGARH, MAY 7:    
          The process of filling of nominations for the forthcoming Zila Parishad and Panchayat Samiti elections is over today i.e. on May 7, 2013.  Total number of nominations filed for Zila Parishad is 1321 whereas for the Panchayat Smitis 10085 nomination papers were filed.
          Disclosing this here today an official spokesperson of the State Election Commission said that the candidates could file the nomination paper up to May 7 by 3 p.m. He said that Ludhiana is the district which witnessed largest number (791) of candidates filed their nominations for Panchayat Samiti where as with the filing of 98 nomination papers for Zila Parishad, Sangrur stood first among all the districts.
The detail of district wise nomination filled is appended herewith.
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DISTRICT WISE NOMINATION OF ZILA PARISHAD AND PANCHAYAT SAMITI

SENIOR TIME SCALE FOR THREE IPS OFFICERS
CHANDIGARH, MAY 7: The Punjab Government has granted Senior Time Scale to the three officers of Indian Police Service namely Mr. Kuldeep Singh, Mr. Naveen Singla and Mr. Swapan Sharma on the completion of their four years of service.
          According to a spokesman of Department of Home Affairs and Justice in pursuance to the guidelines of Government of India Ministry of Home Affairs, the above officers have been granted the senior time scale of Rs. 15600-39000 plus Grade Pay of Rs. 6600 in Pay Band-3 on completion of 4 years service with effect from January 1, 2013.
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PUNJAB VIDHAN SABHA SECRETARIAT
PUNJAB ASSEMBLY ADJOURNED SINE-DIE ON MAY 3

 CHANDIGARH, MAY 7:
The Fifth Session of the Fourteenth Punjab Vidhan Sabha, which was summoned to meet May 3, 2013 was adjourned Sine-die on the same day i.e. May 3, 2013. It was disclosed by Punjab Vidhan Sabha Secretariat.

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PUNJAB GOVT FINE TUNES CROP DIVERSIFICATION PROPOSAL TO BE SUBMITTED TO GoI

·       APPROVES PAU PROPOSAL OF SETTING UP OF A CENTER OF EXCELLENCE AT A COST OF RS.198 CRORE

·       PUNJAB MARKETING BOARD TO ESTABLISH 20 BIG DRYERS ACROSS THE STATE AT A COST OF RS.160 CRORE

CHANDIGARH MAY 06:
         
After marathon discussions with various stack holders in the much needed agriculture diversification program, the Punjab Government has finalized the proposals in this regard likely to be submitted to the Union Agriculture Ministry next week with an objective to shift major chunk of cultivable land from paddy to crops like maize, sugarcane, oilseeds, soyabean, pulses besides fruits and vegetables under crop diversity program across the state. 
          Disclosing this here today a spokesperson of the Chief Minister’s office informed that the Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today held a series of meetings with the progressive farmers, researchers and senior officers of various departments involved in this grand mission for the promotion of crop diversification through boosting allied agricultural activities in the state.
During a brain-storming a day-long session, the Chief Minister called upon the farmers to shift from paddy cultivation to other alternative crops to save the rapidly depleting ground water, for which state government was finalizing a comprehensive proposal for onward submission to the GoI, demanding subsidy of 50% on all the agriculture inputs like seed, pesticides and insecticides besides ensuring an  effective infrastructure support in terms of machinery with 50% of subsidy and a proper marketing network for the farmers’ produce. In addition to this maize and fruit processing units must also be established with the support of GoI.
           On the occasion, the Chief Minister also approved the proposal of Rs.198 crore for setting up of a Center of Excellence under Crop Diversification Program to carry out the research work by Punjab Agricultural University in a phased manner during a period of next five years. The Chief Minister gave approval to the proposal for establishing one litchi estate at Pathankot and one Pear estate at Amritsar at a cost of 3.8 crore each besides establishing sub-estate for litchi at Gurdaspur.
The Chief Minister also approved to constitute different boards/technical committees comprising representatives of technical experts, farmers and government officials for each crop considered for under diversification plan.
Mr. Badal directed the Vice Chancellor of PAU to work out a time scheduled plan for each crop right from the availability of high yielding seeds to the post harvesting activities.  He also mentioned that weather conditions today were changing tremendously, so PAU could also work out the feasibilities for setting up an independent Weather Prediction Center to facilitate the farmers to make use of weather related information and services for their effective agriculture activities.   
Mr. Badal asked the farmers to cultivate Maize (June Varity) which was less water consuming instead of the winter season Maize which was being cultivated in the month of February and was highly water intensive.  It was informed in the meeting that presently 1.5 lakh hectares area was under maize cultivation in the state as a part of diversification program.  The target was to bring 25000 hectare every year under the maize cultivation for the next five years so as to double the area under maize in the state.  
          Mr. Badal also informed that Punjab Marketing Board would set up 20 big dryers across the state at a cost of Rs.160 crore to facilitate the farmers in getting remunerative price of their produce.  He also called upon the farmers to adopt water storage tank system for irrigation for which government was already providing subsidy.  Regarding the technical and mechanized support to the farmers, Mr. Badal urged them to utilize the facilities available in the cooperative societies like agri-center, which were providing equipment support to all the farmers.  The state government was committed to strengthen all the agri centers by providing all type of pre and post harvesting machinery at subsidized rates in these agri-centers, added Mr. Badal.  The agri center would also extend any sort of mechanical support to any farmer on subsidy in case needed by him individually. 
          Mr. Badal said that government had also planned to enhance the area under pulses cultivation in the state from 1000 hectare to 75000 hectare within next five years.  The Punjab Government would also tie-up with the National Seed Cooperation to avail adequate and quality pulses seed for the farmers.  He directed the agriculture department to work out the total consumption of pulses in various state government institutions and jails to rationalize the pulses consumption and supply system more effectively.  Likewise, to enhance the existing area of one lakh hectare under sugarcane cultivation to three lakh hectare in next five years with similar infrastructure and marketing support, Mr. Badal said that six new Tissue Culture Labs would also be established across the state for boosting sugarcane cultivation.  
          Expressing a dire need to aware the farming community about the policies and programs of the state government under diversification plan, Mr. Badal asked the agriculture department to strengthen its publicity network system.  Likewise, he advised the Punjab Agricultural University to aware the farmers about their recommendations regarding the suitable verities of different crops well before the cultivation season through advertisements in leading newspapers so that farmers could avail maximum benefits of their recommendations in time.
          Meanwhile Food & Civil Supplies Minister Mr. Adaish Partap Singh Kairon raised the issue of defective Weighing Scales, being run by private owners and causing a huge loss to the farmers and reiterated that the administration must take suitable action against them on the priority.  Taking a serious note of superior’s supply of seeds and pesticides to the farmers, the Minister said that government would take strict action against all the erring traders under the provisions of Consumer Act.
          Regarding the cultivation of Soyabean, the Chairman Punjab Farmers Commission Dr. GS Kalkat opined that the state agriculture department must development suitable high yielding varieties of soyabean according to the climatic conditions of the state.
          Prominent amongst those who attended the meeting included Chief Secretary Mr. Rakesh Singh, Financial Commissioner Development Mr. Suresh Kumar, Principal Secretary Cooperation Mr. SK Sandhu, Special Principal Secretary to Chief Minister Mr. Gaggandip Singh Brar, Vice Chancellor PAU Ludhiana Dr. BS Dhillon, Advisor Agriculture Dr. BS Sidhu, Director Agriculture Dr. MS Sandhu and Director Horticulture Dr. Lajwinder Singh besides other senior officers of various departments. 
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PUNJAB ALL SET FOR TOTAL TRANSFORMATION OF REVENUE DEPARTMENT-SUKHBIR
ALL SYSTEMS TO BE AUTOMATED WITHIN SIX MONTHS
DCs TO HELD ACCOUNTABLE FOR ANY DERELICTION IN PUBLIC DEALING SEATS
DCs TOLD TO CONDUCT SURPRISE CHECKS IN REVENUE GENERATION DEPARTMENTS
GOVERNMENT COMMITTED TO PROVIDE TRANSPARENT, HASSLE FREE, CITIZEN SERVICES
CONSTITUTES THREE MEMBER COMMITTEE TO WORK OUT TIMELINE FOR ELIMINATION OF GIRDAWARI AND AUTOMATED MUTATIONS
GOVERNMENT EXTENDS REGISTRATION OF POWER OF ATTORNEYS UP TO MAY 31ST –MAJITHIA
 

Chandigarh, May 6:
Punjab Deputy Chief Minister Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal today finalized the blue print of total transformation of Revenue Department by eliminating redundant procedures and controls thereby empowering the common citizens to get the citizen services as a matter of right.
           The Deputy Chief Minister accompanied by Mr. Bikram Singh Majithia, Revenue Minister, Punjab gave the final touches to the blue print after extensive brain storming session with all Commissioners of the Divisions and Deputy Commissioners of the districts, who gave their forthright suggestions on practical difficulties being faced by citizens in getting their revenue transaction completed and also suggested different steps. Mr. Badal said that during last five years, he has focused on improving the connectivity of Revenue Department, Digitalizing all land records, putting land records on the web that has taken care of 50% of problems at grass root level. He said that now his focus was improving the system and minimizing the government control and discretion of the Revenue Authorities in transactions. Mr. Badal said that Punjab being the agrarian state, Revenue Department was the backbone of economy and his focus was on automation of systems. Mr. Badal said that most of the litigations in the Revenue Department were due to delay in mutations, Girdawaris and partition of land holding. Mr. Badal said that new computerized system approved in the blueprint would automate the mutation of the property immediately on Registration of Property. He asked Deputy Commissioners to hold fortnightly camps in the districts to put the partition cases on fast track. 
           Setting up of three members committed to suggest timeline and path for elimination of Girdawari, suggesting system reforms at the grass root level and working out a non government corporate system for revenue transactions, Mr. Badal said that his Government was fully committed to eliminate corruption from Revenue Department and sought weekly secret reports on the conduct of Revenue Officers from Deputy Commissioners. He asked the Deputy Commissioners to minimum make 20 calls to those parties, whose land has been registered that day in the district to get a unbiased feedback regarding problems being faced by them in getting transaction completed.
           Exhorting Deputy Commissioners to become agents of change, Mr. Badal said that Deputy Commissioner being an executive head of districts has to be responsible for ensuring transparency and timely delivery of all services from all Public Dealing Seats. He said that DCs should conduct surprise checks in all such departments and submit weekly report to Deputy Chief Minister Office. He said that he would personally monitor the delay and pendency in the cases of mutation, partition and was seeking independent feedback from different agencies regarding problems being faced by people in the different districts and any dereliction in ensuring transparent working atmosphere would reflect in the annual confidential report of each DC. He said that it was imperative for DCs to extensively tour rural areas to tackle the problems being faced by the general masses. Seeking suggestions from Deputy Commissioners for doing away archaic systems, Mr. Badal said that every Deputy Commissioner would submit minimum 10 suggestions to improve the systems at grass root level within a week.
          Stressing upon strengthening of feedback system, Mr. Badal said that DCs would coordinate with all state departments and execution agencies in the districts to complete the ongoing development projects within timeline. He asked Deputy Commissioners to submit reports being sought by every department within stipulated time.
           Asking the revenue department a toll free number to get register complaints of the people, Mr.Badal said that he would be personally monitoring this complain center.
           Addressing the Deputy Commissioners, Mr. Majithia said that he has already started the cleansing process of Revenue Department in which four corrupt and inefficient Revenue Officials have been dismissed and 10 have been suspended from the service.
           Mr. Majithia announced extension of Registration of Property on Power of Attorney till May 31st. Besides Commisioners of the Divisions and all Deputy Commissioners, Mr. N.S Kang, Financial Commissioner Revenue and Secretaries of all concerned departments participated in the meeting.
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MARKFED LEADS IN WHEAT PROCUREMENT IN PUNJAB
·        10459890 TONES WHEAT PROCURED IN STATE

Chandigarh, May 6:

        Wheat Procurement is on full swing in Punjab. State procurement agency MARKFED achieved first position in wheat procurement. MARKFED procured 2274107, the 21.7 per cent of the total procurement of the state.
        Government agencies and private millers procured more than6906055 tones of wheat till last evening
        Out of total procurement of 10459890 tones of wheat in all the procurement centers of Punjab, Government agencies procured 10321335 tones of wheat till date, whereas private traders procured 117082 tones of wheat, PUNGRAIN had procured 1887437 tones (18.0%) whereas PUNSUP procured 2138404 tones (20.4%), PSWC procured 1207892 tones (11.5%) whereas PAIC was able to procure 980686 tones (9.4 %) of wheat.
        The Central Government agency FCI had been able to procure 1832809 tones (17.5%). 
        The spokesman added that District Sangrur with 924730 tones of procurement was leading in procurement operations, whereas District Ludhiana with 845387 tones of procurement was at second slot and district Patiala with 802083 tones of procurement ranked at third position.       
The State Government has set up more than 1750 procurement centers and activated its total machinery to ensure smooth procurement of wheat, the spokesman added.
 
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STATE ELECTION COMMISSION
STAY AWAY FROM BOOZING AND USE OF MONEY DURING ELECTION; SEC UGRES VOTERS

CHANDIGARH, MAY 6:
The state election commission appealed the candidates in fray for the forthcoming Panchayat Samiti and Zila Parishad elections to abstain from using unaccounted cash to lure the voters. Commission also urges the voters to stay away from accepting any offer of liquor and money from the candidates. Describing use of money and liquor to influence the voters a threat to democracy, SEC asks to voters to cast their vote fearlessly.

In a press statement released here today spokesperson of the SEC said that strict advisory has also been issued to the all the candidates in fray also to the political parties asking them to shun the habit of luring voters through illegal means. He said that a delegation of Sikh institutions under the leadership of Giani Kewal Singh, former Jathedar, Takhat Damdama Sahib, today met the Secretary of the SEC, Mr. M.L Sharma, with a request to act strictly to stomp out the use of liquor and money in the elections.

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MINISTER ORDERS PROBE INTO PATIALA INMATE’S DEATH
·       ADEQUATE SECURITY COVER TO 57 PAKISTANI PRISONERS
·       HEALTH DEPARTMENT TO ENSURE QUALITY MEDICINES

Chandigarh May3:

Mr. Sarwan Singh Phillaur, Jail Minister Punjab has asked the Principal Secretary Home to conduct a thorough probe into the sudden death of an under trial who was lodged in Patiala Jail and submit the report within a week.
                     Expressing concern over the attack on a Pakistani prisoner in Jammu jail, the Minister said that the security of all the 57 Pakistani prisoners languishing in Punjab jails have been beefed up and as a precautionary measure they are not being allowed to move out their barracks. Mr. Phillaur also said that 28 Pakistani prisoners in Amritsar out of the total 38 already completed their terms have been lodged in a transit camp within the Jail.

               Terming the frequent deaths of prisoners and recent incidents of violence in the jail premises as unfortunate and said that the Punjab government has seized of the matter and was taking some corrective measures in this regard. He also said directed the senior officers of the department to immediately resolve all the cases of various enquiries lying pending with the department at the earliest. Taking serious note of the substandard adulterated medicines being used in the jails, the Minister said that the Health department has also been asked to ensure the adequate and good quantity medicines required for the prisoners in all the Jails of Punjab.
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MALUKA SUSPENDS THREE SCHOOL LECTURER FOR
SUBMITTING WRONG INFORMATION
Chandigarh, May 3: Taking a serious note of wrong information submitted regarding the strength of students, the Punjab Education Minister Mr. Sikander Singh Maluka today directed the concerned authorities to suspend three school Lecturer namely Harjit Singh, Lecturer Economics & Officiating Principal, Naresh Kumar, lecturer Mathematics and Mrs. Neelam, Lecturer Biology of Government Senior Secondary School, Lehri (Bathinda) with immediate effect. These lecturers are found guilty of submitting wrong information during a physical verification.

Disclosing this here today, the Education Minister said that in a bid to keep intact their posts, these lecturers showed strength of 22 students (non-medical and medical) while during inquiry the strength of students was found only five. Mr. Maluka informed that the State Education Department has initiated a rationalization process in all the schools of the state to ensure required teacher taught ratio. He said that the state government was committed to provide quality education to all the students studying in government schools and the rationalization process was an effort to streamline the education infrastructure.
The Education Minister cautioned all the officers/teachers/officials of education department that against submitting wrong information regarding the strength of students in their respective education institutions. He categorically said that anyone found guilty of submitting wrong information would have to face the strict action.
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STATE ELECTION COMMISSION
NOTIFICATION ISSUSED FOR PANCHAYAT SMITIS AND ZILA PARISHADS ELECTIONS
·        NOMINATIONS STARTS, MAY 7 LAST DATE TO FILE NOMINATIONS
·        VOTING ON MAY 19 AND COUNTING ON MAY 21
CHANDIGARH, MAY 3:
            The State Election Commission today issued notification for the election of 145 Panchayat Smitis and 22 Zila Parishads in the state. With the issuance of notification Model Code of Conduct came into force which would remain in force till May 23. It was disclosed by an official spokesperson of the State Election Commission
            He said that the process of filing of nomination has started from today i.e. from May 3 and would last till May 7.Secrutiny of the papers would be done on May 8 and papers could be withdrawn up to May 9. Voting would be conducted on May 19 and counting of votes would be done on May 21 results would be announced on the same day. Election process would be completed on May 23. The spokesperson further said that voting on May 19 would start at 8 a.m. and continue till 4 p.m. the counting of votes would be started at 8 a.m. on May 21.
            He said that with the issuance of notification the Model Code of Conduct has come into force. The spokesperson clarified that the Model Code of Conduct would be applicable only in the villages which directly come under the revenue jurisdiction of concerned Panchayat Smitis and Zila Parishads.

STATE ELECTION COMMISSION
STATE ELECTION COMMISSION DIRECTS TO IMPLEMENT MODEL CODE OF CONDUCT STRICTLY

    ASKS CHIEF SECRETARY TO ENSURE THE COMPLIANCE

CHANDIGARH, MAY 3:
          The State Election Commission (SEC) has issued strict directions for the compliance of model code of conduct which has come into force today with the issuance of notification for the election of 145 Panchayat Smitis and 22 Zila Parishads. SEC has also written a letter to the Chief Secretary for ensuring the compliance of conduct.
          An Official spokesman of the SEC said that during the election process Ministers shall not combine their official visit with electioneering work and shall not make use of official machinery and personnel or other Government resources including government vehicle for furtherance of interests of any candidate. Official telephones including mobiles, fax etc. shall not be used for electioneering purposes. The Ministers and other authorities shall not sanction grants/payment out of their discretionary funds from the time elections are announced by the Commission. Further they shall not announce any financial grant in any form or promises thereof or make any promise of constructions of road, provision of drinking water facility etc. or make any adhoc appointment in government public undertaking etc. which may have the effect of influencing the voters in favour of the party in power. They shall not sanction any new scheme or make any announcement of any new scheme. Laying of foundation stone etc. of a project or a scheme of any kind shall not be done during the period of election.
An Official Spokesman further said that use of rest houses, circuit houses and other government accommodation should be permitted to all the candidates and the political parties on the same terms and conditions on which it is permissible for the party in power. However, no candidate or party shall be allowed to use such accommodations (including premises apartments thereto) as a campaign office or for holding any public meeting for the purpose of election propaganda.
An Official Spokesman further said that a public servant shall not participate or accompany a Minister in any programme, organized at an individual’s house for which the Minister has accepted the invitation during his election tour. The loud speakers shall be used only between 07.00 A.M. to 10.00 P.M. No party or candidate shall hold public meeting or processions without obtaining necessary permission from the competent Local Authority(s). Places of worship such as temples, mosques, churches etc. shall not be used as forum for election propaganda.

BADAL DECLARE SARABJIT “A NATIONAL MARTYR”
CREMATION WITH FULL STATE HONOURS; GOVT JOBS FOR HIS DAUGHTERS
CHANDIGARH MAY 2:

The Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today expressed shock and grief over what he described as “the eminently avoidable tragedy of Sarabjit Singh” culminating in his death in Pakistan in the early hours of the morning today.   He strongly condemned the inhuman treatment and brutal murder of Sarabjit Singh right under the nose of the Pakistani authorities.
Mr. Badal described Sarabjit Singh as “a national martyr” who suffered unspeakable repression and torture with dignity.
            The Chief Minister said that the body of the martyr will be cremated with full state honours.  The Chief Minster said that the Punjab government will provide government jobs to Sarabjit Singh’s two daughters. ”We will also stand by the family for whatever help they need.”
            A special chartered plane is being kept ready in Delhi to bring Sarabjit’s body and members of his family to Amritsar.  From there, they will be flown to their village for Sarabjit Singh’s cremation.
            The government will move a resolution to condole the death of Sarabjit Singh and to pay homage to the departed soul.
Mr. Badal came down heavily on the handling of the case by the Government of India.  “This is ‘gross diplomatic failure’ and a sign of weakness on the apart of Government of India. Nations are run with a degree of strength of will, which is so missing in this government.  We have this very sad feeling that the Government of India failed to articulate national sentiment on Sarabjit and did not even take the necessary diplomatic initiative at a level where it was called for.  The issue needed to be on the table in any Indo-Pak engagement because Sarabjit was not just an innocent individual but had become yardstick to judge the sincerity for the Pakistan Government towards peace efforts”, said Mr. Badal.
He said that there was an urgent need to treat it as a rarest of rare cases and make a diplomatic initiative at the highest level to secure his release. “There was fund of sympathy for Sarabjit’s cause within Pakistan and human rights civil liberties organizations and activists there had been actively working to put pressure on their government for Sarbjit’s release. But we have a very sad feeling that the Government of India far from spear-heading the initiative in this direction failed even to lend support to these sane voices within Pakistan, added Mr. Badal.”
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PUNJAB MULLS NEW ENERGY POLICY TO MEET NEXT 25 YEARS POWER DEMAND-SUKHBIR

• FOCUS ON EXPLOITING GAS, HYDEL AND NEW ENERGY SECTORS
• CONSIDERING LUMP-SUM TAX FOR CERTAIN SECTORS
• NEW INDUSTRIAL POLICY TO PROVIDE ONLINE SANCTIONS
• POWERCOM COMES OUT OF RED

 CHANDIGARH, MAY 2: Punjab is giving final touches to New Energy Policy of the State to meet the increasing power demands of every sector for at least next 25 years.
           Inviting industrialists to invest in the state in a conference ‘SAMRIDHI PUNJAB’ held here today, the Punjab Deputy Chief Minister Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal said that thought Punjab would be Power Surplus by the end of this year by the commissioning of three thermal plants but the state government was not getting complacent with this achievement. He said that though these three thermal plants would take care of Power demand of next ten years but SAD-BJP Government was planning New Energy Policy to meet the demand of at least next 25 years. He said that the new energy policy besides traditional sectors of thermal power would also focus on Power generation from Gas, Hydel Resources and with increasing focus on New Energy Sectors like Solar, Biomass and Wind. He said that Punjab was contemplating to generate 1000 MW power from Solar Sector and contemplating a new model of partnership with multinational companies in this. “It would be a win-win situation for all stakeholders and within next 4 years, we will be able to rate of power substantially down,” Mr. Badal informed.
           Speaking about ensuing Investment Promotion Policy, Mr. Badal said that launch of this policy was getting postponed because he was personally going into the minutest details. Promising the most comprehensive interactive portal that would link all Departments, Mr. Badal said that New Policy was going for self certification and self-attestations by the industrialists rather than imposing bureaucratic controls. He said that like Income Tax Returns they would scrutinize 10% cases and move with the total faith on the applicant.
           Promising World Class Infrastructure, Zero Government interference, Zero Inspector Raaj, Mr. Badal said that with best Road Connectivity, Power Surplus Status, Negligible Labour Problem, Punjab is all set to become most favoured investment destination in the country. He said that with transparent and paperless taxation procedures he had been able to increase VAT collections from Rs. 5000 crore to 16000 crore and was focusing on touching Rs. 40000 crore in next three years that too without raising the rate of tax. He said that he was alive to the demand of industrialists and was mulling lump-sum tax on certain sectors including steel industry to increase their competitiveness. Mr. Badal said that he has been able to bring Powercom in cash profit of Rs. 300 crore by cutting down line loses and streamlining the distribution system.
           Reiterating his resolve to bring down GSDP to debt ratio to 24%, Mr. Badal said that we have been able to bring this ratio from 46% to 30% and and further bring it down to 24% by next year. He said that this ratio was quiet healthy compare to the Union Government’s ratio of 60% and above 40% ratio of most of the other states. Mr. Badal said that Punjab was focusing of productive debt that is catalytic for growth. Earlier Mr. Badal had a fruitful meeting with entrepreneurs and industrialists from all over the country, who made sector specific queries from Deputy Chief Minister.
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  FRAUD BY TRAVEL AGENTS

NRI COMMISSION ISSUES NOTICES TO SECREATRY HOME AND POLICE COMMISSIONER JALANDHAR  SEEKS REPORT ON OR BEFORE MAY 31

Chandigarh, May 2
The NRI Commission of Punjab today issues notice to the Secretary (Home) state of Punjab and Commissioner of Police Jalandhar to submit the report on or before may 31,2013 regarding the fraud by travel agents with the 13 young men.
A spokesman of the NRI Commission today said that the NRI Commission has taken the Suo-Moto of news published in newspapers in respect of 13 young men returned to their homeland disillusioned with their foreign dreams from Iraq alleging fraud by local travel agents. Spokesman further said that one of their companions Jagdeep Singh is still held hostage by armed goons in West Asian Country, as he could not arrange Rs 50,000 for which his parents are in possession of a video which shows their son surrounded by goons carrying lethal weapons.  
          He said that travel agents Parminder Singh,Sunil Kumar and Saheb  with their office in Rama Mandi area sent these 13 boys  to Iraq in lieu of Rs 15 Lakh and promised them a job . However they were forced to live in extreme deprivation and no job was provided. He said that now the travel agents are stated to be absconding and their offices are locked.
He said that NRI Commission has issued notices to Secretary (Home) Punjab and Commissioner of Police Jalandhar to apprise the Commission as to the status of the said case and to submit the status report on or before the May 31, 2013.  

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9915588 TONES WHEAT PROCURED IN PUNJAB
Chandigarh, May 2:
          Government agencies and private millers procured more than 9915588  tones of wheat till last evening compared to 9173197 tones of wheat during last year. The State Government has set up more than 1750 procurement centers and activated its total machinery to ensure smooth procurement of wheat.
The spokesman of the government said that Out of total procurement of9915588 tones of wheat in all the procurement centers of Punjab, Government agencies procured 9807408 tones of wheat till date whereas private traders procured 108180 tones of wheat. PUNGRAIN procured 1779673 tones (17.9%), MARKFED procured 2175593 tones (22.9%). whereas PUNSUP had procured 2036850 tones (20.5%) PSWC procured 1150602 tones (11.6%) whereas PAIC was able to procure 924264 tones (9.3 %) of wheat.The Central Government agency FCI had been able to procure 1740426 tones (17.6%). 
          The spokesman added that District Sangrur with 903376 tones of procurement was leading in procurement operations whereas District Ludhiana with 826098 tones of procurement was at second slot and district Patiala with 793642 tones of procurement ranked at third position. 

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NEW INSTRUCTIONS FOR ENTERENCE INTO OFFICER’S GALLERY DURING ASSEMBLY SESSION
Chandigarh, 2 May:
The Punjab Vidhan Sabha Secretariat has issued new instructions for the entrance into the Officer’s Gallery during the Session on May 3. Disclosing this here today an official spokesperson of the Vidhan Sabha said that the new instructions have been issued due to security reasons and limited seats in the Gallery.
He said that now onwards the passes for the Officer’s Gallery would be issued on the name of the Administrative Secretaries/ HODs. He said that one pass would also be issued to another senior officer of the concerned department so that Administrative Secretaries/ HODs could depute his/ her representative in case of their absence. He said that the entry of phone has been prohibited.
It has also been clarified that the parking area in front of the Speaker’s Gate is totally reserved for Speaker/ Deputy Speaker, Chief Minister, Deputy Chief Minister, Ministers, Leader opposition party and for Chief Parliamentary Secretaries.
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MEDICAL INSURANCE OF RS 1.50 LAKH FOR EVERY CITIZEN: MITTAL
·       THE AMBIT OF BHAI KANAHIYA SCHEME ENHANCED TO COVER EACH AND EVERY CITIZEN OF THE STATE
·        NEW HEALTH SCHEME FOR THE FAMILIES UNDER ATTA-DAL SCHEME.

Chandigarh, May 2:
In a far reaching development The Punjab Government has increased the ambit of Bhai Kanahiya Scheme and extending Medical Insurance cover of Rs. 1.50 lakh to each and every citizen of the state.
It was disclosed by Mr. Madan Mohan Mittal, Health Minister,Punjab. He said that earlier Medical Insurance cover was provided to only the members of cooperative societies, which has now been extended to each citizen of the state. “The premium supposed to be paid under this scheme has also been pruned to a lower level” The Minister added.
The Minister further said that under National Health Insurance Scheme, the state government has also decided to provide Medical Insurance of Rs. 30 thousand to the 5.23 lakh BPL families of the state. He said that for the 10 lakh families covered under Atta-Dal Scheme, a new Medical Insurance Scheme would soon be started. He said that under this proposed new Medical Scheme the premium of Rs. 400 supposed to be paid per family would be paid by the state government. “The Punjab Government has earmarked a budget of Rs 20 crore for these new schemes.” The Minister added.

TECHNICAL EDUCATION DEPARTMENT CURTAILS EX INDIA LEAVE TO 10 DAYS
ORDERS ALL EMPLOYEES TO JOIN OFFICE IN 15 DAYS
WOULD NOT ALLOW TEACHER’S LEAVE TO HAMPER TRAINING OF STUDENTS
 Chandigarh, May 2, 2013
The Technical Education Department of Punjab today curtailed the EX India leave of all Officers/employees to 10 days.
Mr Anil Joshi, Technical Education and Industrial Minister of Punjab today said that it has been found that many Officers/employees has gone to abroad on EX India leave, which has an adverse impact on the training of trainees in technical institutions across the state He said that keeping in view this problem, the Punjab Government has decided that now the Officers/Employees of technical education department would be given EX India leave only to 10 days. He further said that those employees who are already on EX India leave has been informed through a public notice, to join their office in 15 days . He said that if any employee would fail to follow these orders, he/she would have to face the music.
The Minister has also informed that the Punjab Government has constituted 22 member team to check the functioning of Engineering, Polytechnic and ITI in the state. These teams would check the attendance, training and placement in institutions. The Minister also ordered the higher officials of department to keep an eagle’s eye on the placement of students.  The principals of those institutions would face departmental action , who has not given proper attention to the placement of students, he said.

VIGILANCE NABS EO KAPURTHALA IN BRIBERY CASE
Chandigarh May 2: State Vigilance Bureau today nabbed Executive Officer Kapurthala red handed accepting bribe Rs. 50,000. Disclosing this here today, Mr. Sursh Arora, Chief Director-cum-DGP Vigilance Bureau Punjab said that the Vigilance Bureau caught Parkash Singh Sandhu EO Kapurthala demanding and accepting bribe of Rs. 50,000 from the complainant Joginder Singh of SAS Nagar Mohali for passing map to construct house at his plot. He added that the complainant approached the Bureau and alleged that EO Kapurthala was demanding bribe of Rs. 50,000 for the above said motive. After finding the veracity of facts a vigilance team led by Nirmaljit Singh DSP Vigilance Kapurthala laid a trap and the accused were nabbed red handed in the presence of two government officials as witnesses. The tainted money was recovered from him. In this regard a vigilance case under u/s 7, 13 (1) read with 13 (2) of Prevention of Corruption Act 1988 has been registered at Vigilance Bureau Police Station Jalandhar and further investigation was under progress.
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UN PROBE REQUIRED IN SARABJIT SINGH CASE: JOSHI

CHANDIGARH, MAY 2:
Mr. Anil Joshi, Industry & Technical education Minister, Punjab today demanded that a thorough probe be got conducted by the United Nations and other International Human Right bodies in the murder of Indian citizen sarbjit singh in Pakistan jail. Expressing his deep anguish and sorrow on the cold blooded and planned murder of Sarabjit Singh in Lahore Jail by the Pakistani authorities.the minister said that the congress led UPA government has also played a dubious role in securing his release during all these years. Mr. Joshi termed it as a complete failure of the Indian diplomatic efforts and double standards adopted all through accusing the Pakistan Government for this cold blooded murder.
The Minister said that Sarabjit Singh had been arrested on a mistaken identity as one Manjit Singh.
Mr.  joshi Conveying his deep felt sorrow and praying to the Almighty to rest his soul in peace and give enough strength to the members of the bereaved family, the minister offered all type of support and cooperation to them all through in the coming years.

PUMPS FROM 30% TO 70%- ABDULLAH TO CM
STEP WILL ENSURE OPTIMUM UTILIZATION OF SOLAR ENERGY IN VARIOUS AGRICULTURAL OPERATIONS- BADAL
INITIATIVE TO PLAY PIVOTAL ROLE IN SUPPLY OF RELIABLE ENERGY TO FARMERS- CM
  

New Delhi, May 1-
Union Minister of New and Renewable energy Dr Farooq Abdullah today assured the Punjab Chief Minister Mr Parkash Singh Badal that their Ministry would sympathetically consider the proposal of the state government to enhance the existing subsidy on the solar irrigation pump sets from 30% to 70% for optimum utilization of the Solar energy in various Agricultural operations.
The Chief Minister, who called on Dr Abdullah here at his office, apprised him that the state government was committed to promote Renewable and Clean energy in a big way for benefitting the farmers for which fulsome support and co-operation of the Government of India (GoI) was required. During the deliberations Mr Badal said that the judicious use of Solar energy in Agriculture, Horticulture and floriculture could do miracles in the state as it was not only cost effective but environmental friendly also. He impressed upon the Union Minister that for it the need of the hour was to promote the utilization of Renewable sources of energy in agricultural activities by creating awareness amongst the farmers besides incentivizing them.
The Chief Minister informed Dr Abdullah that though the Union government was already providing subsidy to the farmers for encouraging them to adopt solar energy for agriculture but this subsidy was meager due to which the farmers were hesitating to adopt it. Mr Badal urged the Union Minister that if the subsidy was raised from existing 30% to 70% then it would give the much needed impetus to the use of Solar energy which would not only help in reducing the power consumption in the state but it would also go a long way in benefitting the farmers in supplying reliable power.
Responding to the issues raised by the Chief Minister, Dr Abdullah appreciated the efforts made by the state government to promote new and renewable energy with a twin objective of benefitting the farmers by ensuring uninterrupted supply of quality power on one hand and saving abundant electricity on the other. Assuring all possible assistance and co-operation to the state government on behalf of the GoI, Union Minister said that they would make concerted efforts to make this mission a huge success. Dr Abdullah said that he would soon convene a meeting of his ministry tosympathetically consider the proposal of the state government to enhance the existing subsidy on the solar irrigation pump sets from 30% to 70%.
The Chief Minister was accompanied by his Special Principal Secretary Mr Gaggandip Singh Brar.

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BADAL SEEKS PROMPT INTERVENTION OF PM FOR RELEASE OF SARABJEET
·        EXPLOIT ALL DIPLOMATIC CHANNELS FOR SAVING LIFE OF SARABJEET-CM TO GOI
·        CM MEETS RAJNATH, ABDULLAH AND MULAYAM YADAV
New Delhi, May 1-
          Punjab Chief Minister Mr Parkash Singh Badal today sought the immediate intervention of Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh for bringing back Mr Sarabjeet Singh to provide proper treatment to him after he was seriously injured in an attack by other prisoners in the Kot Lakhpat Rai Jail of Pakistan.
          Talking to the media persons here today, the Chief Minister said that it was unfortunate that Mr Sarabjeet Singh continues to be in coma and was on ventilator after being brutally attacked by other prisoners due to which it was the moral duty of the Union government to make all out efforts for his early release thereby saving his precious life. Mr Badal said that it was the high time that the Prime Minister, Union Foreign Affairs Minister and Union Home Minister must exploit all the diplomatic channels for bringing back Mr Sarabjeet from the Pakistan to ensure world class medical treatment to him. He said that immediate relief must be provided to Mr Sarabjeet Singh on the humanitarian ground for saving his valuable life.
Expressing solidarity with the family of Mr Sarabjeet Singh, the Chief Minister said that the state government was solidly with them in this hour of crisis. However Mr. Badal said that though there was hardly anything in the hands of the state government in the matters pertaining to the foreign affairs but then also the Punjab government appeals the Government of India (GoI) to take a prompt action for saving the life of Indian death row prisoner. He also said that observing the serious situation of Mr. Sarabjeet Singh, the national government of Pakistan should also take a lenient view towards him and take every step for ensuring his well being by providing quality treatment to him anywhere across the globe.
Earlier the Chief Minister also met the National President of BJP Mr Rajnath Singh, National Conference leader and Union Minister Dr Farooq Abdullah and Samajwadi Party leader Mr. Mulayam Singh Yadav to express his gratitude for their unflinching support and solidarity with Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) on the issue of abolition of the Wealth Tax imposed by the Union government on the Agriculture land in the periphery of the urban areas. Mr Badal apprised these leaders that with their fulsome support and co-operation a pressure was mounted on the centre government due to which it was forced to withdraw this anti-farmer’s tax which would have otherwise crushed the distressed peasantry of the state besides putting the national food security in peril.
The Chief Minister was accompanied by his Special Principal Secretary Mr Gaggandip Singh Brar and Resident Commissioner Mr K Siva Prasad.
 
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STREERING COMMITTEE CONSTITUTED FOR TREAMENT OF BIO MEDICAL WASTE

CHANDIGARH, MAY 1:
The Punjab Government has constituted a State Level Steering Committee for ' Environmentally Sound Management of Bio- medical waste in Punjab' for implementation of UNIDO Project in the state.
Disclosing this here today an official spokesperson of the Science, Technology & Environment department said that Principal Secretary of the  Science, Technology & Environment department has been made the Chairman of the committee whereas Special Secretary/Additional Secretary/Joint Secretary , Department of Science, Technology & Environment department, Director, Health and Family Welfare ,Director, Medical Education & Research, Representative , Project Management Unit of MEF, GOI, New Delhi, Head, Govt Rajindra Medical  College & Hospital, Patiala, Head , Dayanand Medical College & Hospital, Ludhiana, Head , Fortis Hospital, Mohali, Representative, United Nations Industrial Development Organization, New Delhi, Director, Animal Husbandry , Representative, Indian Medical Association have been inducted as members in the steering committee. Member Secretary, Punjab Pollution Control Board, Patiala has been made the Member Secretary of the committee.

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PUNJAB GOES FOR ONLINE ADMISSIONS IN ITIs:JOSHI
CHANDIGARH, MAY 1:
            The Punjab Government has decided to start online admissions in the ITIs from current academic session. Mr. Anil Joshi, Technical Education and Industrial Training Minister, Punjab today held a meeting of the all principals of ITIs of the state to finalise the modalities of online admission process.
            The Minister further said that the government has also to introduce semester system in the ITIs. He said that the ITIs have been told to launce new trades in the session 2013-14 under IDP scheme to facilitate the students getting better opportunities for employment. Mr. Joshi directed ITIs to approach quality council of India to get the trades affiliated. He also reviewed the machinery being brought for the new trades.
            The Minister also asked the principals to get in touch with industries to ensure more and more placement of the students besides conducting workshops to enhance the personality and communication skills of the students, He said that within the period of one year 700 new posts have been created/revejunated. "145 allied trade instructors, mechanical instructors and fitters, who have been working on contract basis are being regularized within week", said the minister. Prominent who were present in the meeting included Mr. A. R. Talwar, Principal Secretary, Mr. B. Purusartha, director, Mrs. Daljit kaur, additional director ITIs.

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14 IPS AND 13 PPS OFFICERS TRANSFERRED

Chandigarh, May 1:

The Punjab government has issued new posting/transfer orders of 14 IPS and 13 PPS officers with immediate effect.
According to an official spokesman, Mr. Sanjiv Gupta, IPS has been posted as DGP Prison Reforms, Chandigarh, Mr. S.K.Asthana, IPS as IGP/V&S, Pb. Power com Chd, Mr. Ishwar Chander, IPS as IGP Border Zone Amritsar, Mr. B.Chandrashekhar, IPS as IGP Zonal-II Pb Jalandhar, Mr. Gurpreet Deo, IPS as IGP Training-cum-Addl.Director MRS, PPA Phillaur, Mr. R.P.Mittal, IPS as IGP Commando Bn., Bahadurgarh, Mr. Tehal Singh Dhaliwal, IPS as IGP IVC. Punjab, Chd, Mr. Rakesh Chandra, IPS as IGP Security-II, Chd, Mr. Mohnish Chawla, IPS as DIG Ferozepur (CDC), Mr. Pramod Ban, IPS as DIG Spl Protection Unit Pb. Chd, Mr. L.K.Yadav, IPS as DIG Investigation/Crime Wing, Pb Chd, Mr. Gurmeet Singh Randhawa, IPS as SSP Faridkot. Mr. Harsh Kumar Bansal, IPS as DCP Ludhiana and Mr. Paramvir Singh Parmar, IPS as Commandant 1st IRB, Patiala.
            Mr. Gurmeet Singh Chauhan, PPS has been posted as SSP Fatehgarh Sahib, Mr. Hardyal Singh Mann, PPS as SSP Patiala, Mr. Gurpreet Singh Gill, PPS as Commandant 36th Bn PAP, Bahadurgarh, Patiala, Mr. Mandeep Singh Sandhu, PPS as SSP Sangrur, Mr. Sukhwant Singh Gill, PPS as SSP Gurdaspur, Mr. Harcharan Singh Bhullar, PPS as Commandant 4th Commando Bn., Mohali, Mr. Jaspreet Singh Sidhu, PPS as DCP, Jalandhar, Mr. Sarabjit Singh, PPS as Commandant 75th Bn., PAP, Jalandhar, Mr. Gurpreet Singh Toor, PPS as Zonal AIG CID Ludhiana, Mr. Manmohan Singh, PPS as SSP Amritsar Rural, Mr. Rakesh Kumar Kaushal, PPS as Commandant 3rd Commando Bn., Mohali, Mr. Sukhdev Singh Kahlon, PPS as SP Crime-1 Punjab Chd and Mr. Rajpal Singh, PPS as SSP Fazilka.
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30 NODEL OFFICERS DEPUTED TO CONSOLIDATE SUPPELIMENTRY DEMANDS FOREXPENDITURE
CHANDIGARH, MAY 1:
            The Punjab Government has deputed 30 nodel officers to consolidate the supplementary demands of expenditure of different departments. Soft and hard copy of the supplementary demands have been sought.
Divulging the detail the spokesperson of the finance department said that director agriculture has been deputed as nodel officer for the agriculture and forest department, likewise director animal husbandry for animal husbandry and fisheries department, registrar cooperative societies for cooperation, director sainik welfare for sainik welfare department, director general school education punjab for education, CEO punjab for elections department, exercise and taxation commissioner for excise and taxation, director treasury and account for finance department, commissioner food and supply for food and supply department, special secretary general administration department for general administration, director health and family welfare for health and family welfare, director general of police punjab for home affairs and justice, director industry and commerce for industry, director information and public relations for information and public relations department, chief engineer canals for irrigation and power, labour commissioner punjab for labour and employment, director local bodies department punjab for local government, housing and urban development, secretary personnel punjab for personnel and administrative reforms, special secretary planning for planning department, chief engineer (head quarter),  PWD (B&R), Patiala for PWD, joint secretary revenue for revenue and rehabilitation, director rural development and panchayats for rural development and panchayats, special secretary science, technology and environment for science, technology and environment department, director social securities, women and child welfare for social securities, women welfare and SC BC welfare department, secretary Punjab vidhan sabha for vidhan sabha, director technical education and industrial training for technical education and industrial training department, director cultural affairs and archaeology for cultural affairs and archaeology department, director state transport for transport and budget and accounts officer has been deputed nodel officer for the vigilance.

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