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BADAL OFFERS APPOINTMENT OF DSP TO THE SON OF BALJIT SINGH AND GIVES EX-GRATIA GRANT OF RS.25 LAC

ALL POLICEMEN AND CIVILIANS INJURED IN TERROR ATTACK TO GET EX-GRATIA GRANT RS.3 LAC EACH AND FREE TREATMENT

ASKS HOME DEPARTMENT TO RECOMMEND THE CASE OF SP (D) BALJIT SINGH, INSPECTOR BALBIR SINGH HC TARA SINGH TO GOI FOR PRESIDENT POLICE MEDAL FOR GALLANTRY

CHILDREN OF DECEASED POLICEMEN TO GET FREE EDUCATION

NANAK CHAND TO BE HONOURED WITH STATE AWARD ON AUGUST 15 AND CASH AWARD OF RS.2 LAC

RAJNATH SINGH HAILS ROLE OF PUNJAB POLICE IN DINANAGAR COUNTER INSURGENCY OPERATION

Chandigarh, July 30: Recognizing the gallantry deed of the slain SP (Detective) Baljit Singh who laid down his life in the Dinanagar terror attack, the Punjab government has decided to appoint his son as Deputy Superintendent of Police besides allowing ex-gratia grant of Rs.25 lac to his bereaved family.

This decision was taken by the Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal during a meeting with senior officers of the civil and police administration here at Chief Minister’s Residence this evening. Similarly, all the police personnel and civilians injured in the counter insurgency operation would be given an ex-gratia grant of Rs.3 lac each. Apart from this, the entire expenditure on their treatment even in the private hospitals would be borne by the state government.

The Chief Minister also asked the State Home Department to recommend the case of awarding President Police Medal for gallantry posthumously to SP (D) Baljit Singh, who attained martyrdom in the terror attack besides of Inspector Balbir Singh and Head Constable Tara Singh too, in recognition with their unprecedented bravery and highly professional conduct, to the Government of India for safeguarding the nation’s integrity and sovereignty.  

Saluting the valor, dedication, selfless devotion and patriotic values displayed by members of the Punjab Police, the Chief Minister allowed the family members of the policemen killed in this operation to draw full pay till the time of their superannuation. Mr. Badal also said that all the children of the policemen, who lost their lives in this terror attack, would be imparted education free of cost to help the distressed families in this hour of grief.

Appreciating the exemplary courage shown by Shri Nanak Chand, the Punjab Roadways driver who showed extraordinary presence of mind and bravery in steering the passengers to safety, the Chief Minister decided to honour him at the state level Independence Day function with the State Award besides giving financial assistance to the tune of Rs.2 lac. His name would also be recommended for the Gallantry Award for civilians to be conferred by the Government of India.

Lauding the enormous contribution of Punjab police especially of SWAT Commandos while making a statement in the Parliament on Dinanagar terror attack, the Union Home Minister Mr. Rajnath Singh today praised their act of bravery, unparalleled commitment, dedication and fortitude with which the Punjab Police countered this terror attack valiantly.

The Chief Minister also asked the DGP to place on record the appreciation in their service record of policemen for exemplary courage, professional commitment and dedication displayed by them during their call of duty, as it would not only boost the morale of Police force but also inspire others to emulate their gallantry deeds and heroic traditions of state police.

It may be recalled that the Punjab police has already issued appointment letters for the job of Constable offered to one member of each family of three Punjab home guards, who were killed in the terror attack.

Similarly, one member of each civilian who lost his life in the terror attack would also be given government job.

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Sukhbir Badal invites JMP Flowers to help set up 100 acre automated greenhouse in Ludhiana

 (Around 30 Polish investors led by Lubelskie chief minister to attend Invest Punjab summit)

(Polish Deputy PM says Punjab would be the first State to be visited by Polish investors after launch of Make in India campaign)

Stezyca, (Poland), July 30 - Punjab Deputy chief minister Sukhbir Singh Badal today invited Central Europe's biggest flower producer JMP Flowers to enter into technical collaboration with Punjab to establish a 100 acre fully automated green house in Ludhiana to kick start exotic flower production in Punjab. 

The Deputy CM was visiting the 33 million euro Orchid planting, rearing and packaging assembly line facility of JMP flowers. Accompanied by the Lubelskie deputy chief ministe, Mr Badsl said the same example could be replicated in Ludhiana with the involvement of young farmer entrepreneurs. He said plug in production facilities would be provided at the 100 acre green house site in Ludhiana and young entrepreneurs could take up areas of 10 to 15 acres each. He said such a large facility would ensure economy of scale as was the case with JMP flowers which had huge green houses over 100 acres of land. 

Meanwhile JMP owner Jacek Ptaszek briefed the Deputy CM that the automated facility imported seedlings from China and Taiwan and then planted, reared and packed them in small boxes to be sold in the retail market in Europe. JMP Flowers sells orchids worth 30 million euros in the European market every year. 

The Deputy CM also held a high level meeting with members of the Polish Chamber of Industries as well as prospective Polish investors wishing to set up base in Punjab. Polish Foreign Relations Director Jerzy Drozdz said around 30 investors and representatives of various industries led by Lubelskie chief  minister Stawomir Sosnowskie would take part in the Invest Punjab summit in October. Mr Drozdz also disclosed that the delegation would also visit the Punjab Agriculture University, Ludhiana to sign an agreement for collaboration in food processing. 

In another development, investors proposing to invest in the food processing, pharmaceutical and IT sectors also called on the Deputy CM. This included Piotr Nowak, who is the owner of the largest soft fruit producers group of Poland. Researchers who wish to bring in new technology into Punjab including Wilfred Nelson and Shakti Upadhya also met the Deputy CM. 

Mr Sukhbir Badal also held a one to one meeting with Poland Deputy Prime Minister Janusz Piechocinsk during the course of which the Polish PM said Punjab would be the first State to be visited by Polish investors after the launch of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's Make in India campaign. The Deputy CM welcomed the Go India campaign started by the Polish government and requested for a new campaign - "Go Punjab in India". "We promise speedy clearance and incentives which will make this campaign a success", he added. 

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CM URGES UNION TRIBAL AFFAIRS MINISTER OVER TELEPHONE TO DECLARE VIMUKAT JATIS INCLUDING BAAZIGARS AS SCHEDULED TRIBES

PATS LABH SINGH FOR HIS COMMENDABLE ROLE TO UPLIFT DOWNTRODDEN AND LOWER STRATA OF THE SOCIETY

ORAM ASSURES CM FOR EARLY RESOLUTION OF THIS LONG PENDING ISSUE

Chandigarh, July 30: Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today requested the Union Minister for Tribal Affairs Mr. Jual Oram over telephone to include the Vimukat Jatis including Baazigars of the state in the list of Scheduled Tribes with immediate effect.

While presiding over a meeting of Punjab Baazigar Front led by the Chairman of Punjab Baazigar and Taprivaas Development Board Mr. Labh Singh Devigarh here at Chief Minister’s Residence this morning, Mr. Badal informed the members of the front that Mr. Oram had assured him that he would soon get this matter resolved on the priority thereby conceding their long pending demand to declare Vimukat Jatis including Baazigars as Scheduled Tribes.

The delegation was apprised in the meeting that the Chief Minister has already written a letter to Mr. Oram urging him to include 33 sub-castes of the state as Schedule Tribes. It may be recalled that two books of ethnographic study done by the Punjabi University Patiala in this regard were already sent to the Ministry of Tribal Affairs, Government of India (GoI) to take an appropriate call on this issue.

The Chief Minister also asked the Greater Mohali Area Development Authority (GMADA) to thoroughly examine the demand of the front for seeking allotment of suitable land in Mohali for the construction of Bhawan in the memory of Bhai Mani Singh, the Great Sikh Martyr who laid down his life against the tyrannical oppression unleashed by the then Mughals.

The Chief Minister also asked the newly appointed Chairman of thePunjab Baazigar and Taprivaas Development Board Mr. Labh Singh to work relentlessly for the welfare of downtrodden and weaker section of the society with missionary zeal. He appreciated the remarkable services rendered by Mr. Labh Singh for overall development of the Baazigar Community in the areas where they were in majority.

Prominent amongst other who were present in the meeting included Principal Secretary to Chief Minister Mr. SK Sandhu, Secretary Welfare of SCs & BCs Mr. Kirpa Shankar Saroj and Special Secretary Welfare of SCs & BCs  Mr. Hari Krishan Nagpal.

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PUNJAB GOVERNMENT CONSTITUTES ORGANIZING COMMITTEE OF 6TH KABADDI WORLD CUP

CHANDIGARH, JULY 30:

Punjab Government has been constituted organizing committee of 6th Kabaddi World Cup-2015 for smooth conduct of mega sports event. Mr. Parkash Singh Badal, Chief Minister has been made the Chief Patron, while Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal, Deputy Chief Minister would be the Chairman of the Organizing Committee.

In a press communiqué released here today an official spokesman said that Mr. Balwinder Singh Bhunder, Member of Parliament and Mr. Sikander Singh Maluka, Rural Development and Panchayat Minister, Punjab would be the Senior Vice Chairmen and Mr. Bikram Singh Majithia, Revenue, Rehabilitation, Information & Public Relations Minister, Mr. Pawan Kumar Tinnu, Chief Parliamentary Secretary Sports& Youth Services and MLA Mr. Pargat Singh have been made Vice Chairmen.

The spokesman further said that Chief Secretary, Principal Secretary Cultural Affairs, Principal Secretary, Information & Public Relations, Principal Secretary Industries & Commerce, Principal Secretary Finance, Financial Commissioner Taxation, Principal Secretary to Chief Minister, Principal Secretary to Deputy Chief Minister, Director General of Police, MD, PIDB, Secretary Sports & Youth Services, Mr. Manvesh Singh and Mr. Ajay Mahajan, both Special Principal Secretaries to Deputy Chief Minister and concerned Deputy Commissioners have been made the members of the organizing committee. Mr. Puneet Chandhok would be the Co-ordinator and Director Sports, Punjab would be the organizing Secretary of the Organizing Committee.

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BIG RELIEF TO URBAN POPULATION AS PUNJAB ALLOWS DEPOSIT OF ARREARS OF HOUSE TAX WITHOUT PENALTY

CHANDIGARH, JULY 30:

The Punjab Government today announced a big relief to residents of cities by giving them an opportunity to deposit arrears of house tax due upto 31st March 2013 without interest and penalty latest by 17 August 2015. They have been given an option to deposit one time amount and enjoy this relaxation.

                Disclosing this here today, Mr. Anil Joshi, Local Government Minister said that all residents, who have to pay arrears of house tax due to 31st March 2013, can deposit the House Tax without penalty and interests to their respective Municipal Corporation, Municipal Council and Nagar Panchayats latest by August 17, 2015. He clarified that August 17, 2015 punitive action would be initiated against defaulters.

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PUNISHMENT TO BE RECORDED IN THE SERVICE BOOKS OF EMPLOYEES

CHANDIGARH, JULY 30:

The Local Government department today issued directions to all officers to ensure recording of punishment meted to any employee of the department in the service books of concerned employees.

According to an official spokesman it has come to the notice of government that punishment being meted to different employees in disciplinary proceedings does not get recorded in the service books of erring employees resultantly action is not taken against them. The Spokesman said that now directions have been issued that it would be responsibility of Superintendent of the branch issuing the punishment orders to get it recorded in the service book of erring employee.

The Spokesman said that it would be also responsibility of superintendent concerned to get that order delivered to respective Regional Deputy Director or Commissioner of Municipal Corporation for prompt implementation and get a written report from them regarding recording of entry in the service record. The spokesperson warned that in the event of dereliction of this order, disciplinary action would be initiated against superintendent concerned.

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PUNJAB ALL SET TO BOOST INFRASTRUCTURE GROWTH-TO SEEK FINANCE FROM BRICS NEW DEVELOPMENT BANK AND AIIB

- DEPARTMENTS TOLD TO PREPARE PROJECT REPORTS

Chandigarh, July 30:

            Punjab is all set to give big push to infrastructure sector and all departments have been told to submit project reports of those projects for which financial assistance can be sought from New Development Banking Institutions like BRICS New Development Bank (NDB) and Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB).

                According to an official spokesman, these two new banks are likely to go a long way in meeting demand for enormous resources needed for Infrastructure Development in the state. He said that both institutions were expected to be operational in the first quarter of 2016. He said that after the operation of these banks state would have access to additional sources of funding for meeting its need of infrastructure financing particular in the sectors like roads, energy, urban development etc. He said that these institutions  are likely to promote innovative financing products for project financing and it was imperative for all departments to avail maximum benefit by quickly developing a shelf of projects which could be taken up for financing by these institutions. He said that all departments while preparing shelf of project should also refer to 12th five year plan document. All Departments have been told to submit preliminary project reports by the month end.

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VIGILANCE BUREAU, PUNJAB

VIGILANCE NABS JE POWER CORPORATION RED HANDED ACCEPTING BRIBE

CHANDIGARH, JULY 30:

Vigilance Bureau yesterday nabbed a Junior Engineer of Power State Transmission Corporation Limited red handed while accepting bribe of Rs. 4000.

Disclosing this here an official spokesperson of the Vigilance Bureau said that JE Prem Chand posted at Sri Mukatsar Sahib was nabbed on the complaint of Baljinder Singh of village Shergarh Gyan Singh Wala district Sri Mukatsar Sahib. The complainant has alleged that the JE was demanding a bribe of Rs. 15,000 for releasing  cheque of compensation amounting to Rs.16,850 in lieu of  damaged caused to the trees on his land which comes under the high intensity power line laid by the department from Sri Mukatsar Sahib to Abohar. JE consented to take bribe in installments and the first installment amounting to Rs. 4000 was to be given to him on July 29.

Acting on the tip off, team of Vigilance Bureau laid a trap and the Junior Engineer Prem Chand was nabbed red handed while accepting the bribe.

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VIGILANCE NABS CONSTABLE WITH BRIBE OF RS. 5000

CHANDIGARH, JULY 30:

Vigilance Bureau late last evening nabbed a constable red handed while accepting a bribe of Rs.5000.

Disclosing this here today an official spokesperson of the Vigilance Bureau said that constable Gurmail Singh posted at Chowki Ranike,  Police Station sadar Dhuri, District Sangrur was nabbed on the complaint of Karamjit Singh of village Batuha , District Sangrur.  The complainant has narrated that he has lodged a complaint against another person and in that case Constable Gurmail Singh was deputed as inquiry officer. He alleged that constable was demanding a bribe of Rs. 5000 to submit inquiry report in his favour.

Acting on the tip off provided by the complainant a trap was laid and the Constable Gurmail Singh was nabbed red handed while accepting the bribe.

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ONE TIME SETTLEMENT SCHEME-2015 OF PADBs EXTENDED TILL JANUARY 1, 2016

Chandigarh, July 30:

The Punjab Government has provided a much needed respite to the farmers to repay the loans they had taken from Primary Agriculture Development Banks by extending the time line from July 7,2015 to January 1, 2016. This time line has been extended under one time settlement scheme -2015. In this regard Mr. Arunjit Singh Miglani, Registrar, Cooperative Societies, Punjab today gave his approval.

It is worth mentioning that under this scheme till date 6714 members of Primary Agriculture Development Banks have already been benefited. These members have been given relief of Rs.29.83 crore and Primary Agriculture Development Banks has been successful in colleting outstanding lons of Rs. 63.58 crore. Under this scheme the loanee would not be required to pay interest more the principal amount. Any interest amount which is more than the principal amount would be waived off.

With the extension of this scheme till January 1, 2016 other members could also avail the relief.

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DEPTT. PUNJAB

AMARJIT SINGH SIDHU ASSUMES CHARGE OF CHAIRMAN MILKFED

Chandigarh, July 30:

 Mr. Amarjit Singh Sidhu, (IAS Retd.) was nominated as Chairman of Milkfed Punjab today assumed the charge of the Chairman at Milkfed H.O., Sector 34, Chandigarh in a simple ceremony.

Mr. Sidhu has served Punjab Government at various positions including State Transport Commissioner, Deputy Commissioner etc.  While addressing the meeting after assuming the charge of Milkfed officers, he stressed that in the present era of stiff competition Milkfed has to perform an extra mile so that not only the interest of Dairy Farmers but also the interest of the consumers can be taken care of.

It is pertinent to mention here that the Board of Milkfed has recently been constituted and 8 Directors from affiliated Milk Unions have been elected. Mr. Yadwinder Singh from Amritsar, Mr. Amarjot Singh from Gurdaspur, Mr. Harpal Singh from Jalandhar, Mr. Harbhajan Singh from Hoshiarpur, Mr. Sukhjinder Singh from Patiala, Mr. Jagjit Singh from Ludhiana, Mr. Sukhjinder Singh Sindhra from Sangrur and Mr. Kuldeep Singh from Faridkot are the elected Directors of Milkfed.

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Polish Deputy PM announces Poland will be partner State in Invest Punjab summit

 ( Offers solutions to increase milk production in Punjab)

 Lublin (Poland) , July 29 - Polish Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Economy Janusz Piechocinski today agreed to a proposal by Punjab Deputy Chief Minister Sukhbir Badal for Poland to become a partner State in the Invest Punjab summit being held in October end this year in Chandigarh.

             The Polish Deputy PM, who hosted the Deputy CM for the entire day today at the province of Lubeskie which is known as an agriculture and agro processing hub, announced this decision to the media after a meeting with Mr Sukhbir Badal.

             The Polish Deputy PM announced that a number of businessmen and researchers would be part of the delegation which would be headed by a Deputy minister.

             Mr Piechocinski also announced that Poland could be a springboard for India and Punjab to enter the European market. He said India could also emerge as a strategic partner along with India as far as offering solutions in the IT and pharmaceutical sectors is concerned.  He also offered solutions for dairies in Punjab which could not only raise milk production but also offer scientific cost effective solutions to do so.

             The Deputy PM said more farmer to farmer exchange of technology could also take place. He said there was immense scope for flower cultivation in Punjab and that Poland could play a crucial role in making this happen.

             Speaking to the media and later addressing a gathering of Polish Investors along with the Deputy PM and Lubelskie Voivodship Marshal Stawomir Sosnowskie, Mr Sukhbir Badal while welcoming the Polish initiative to become a partner State for Invest Punjab, said the State would organise a special session for Polish investors during the summit.

             Mr Badal also urged Poland to upgrade Punjab's milk processing sector as part of the first step to modernise the entire dairy sector in Punjab. He said Poland had achieved a lot by processing 80 per cent of its total milk production compared to a figure of only 8 per cent in Punjab.

             Mr Badal also announced that Punjab was offering a number of tax incentives. "These incentives ensure that a new investor can recover his project cost in a period of around  eight years", he added.

             Lubelskie Voivodship Marshal Stawomir Sosnowskie said his province had doubled its food production in the last ten years. He said both Lubelskie and Punjab could partner in agriculture and allied agriculture activities. Invest Punjab CEO Anirudh Tewari listed the advantages of doing business in Punjab as well as detailing how Punjab had scored on the parameter of ease of doing business.

             Others present on the occasion were Jangveer Singh, Media Advisor to the Deputy chief minister, Additional chief secretary Suresh Kumar, additional principal secretary P  S Aujla,  Bhavdeep Sardana of Sukhjit Starch and Anoop Bector of Bector Food. EOM

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CM ASKS OPPOSITION TO REFRAIN FROM ‘POLITICIZING’ THE ISSUE OF TERRORIST ATTACK IN DINA NAGAR

CHEAP POLITICS WAS UNDESIRABLE AND UNWARRANTED ON THE ISSUE OF NATIONAL INTEREST

STATE GOVERNMENT WOULD MAKE WHOLE HEARTED EFFORTS TO FURTHER MODERNIZE THE POLICE FORCE IN THE STATE

TERRORISM COULD NOT RAISE ITS UGLY HEAD AGAIN IN THE STATE

LAUDS PUNJAB POLICE FOR SHOWING EXEMPLARY COURAGE TO COMBAT THIS TERRORIST ATTACK

VISITS POLICE STATION AT DINA NAGAR TO TAKE STOCK OF THE GROUND REALITY

CALLS ON THE FAMILIES OF SLAIN COPS AND CIVILIANS IN PATHANKOT AND GURDASPUR DISTRICT TO SHARE HIS CONDOLENCES AND PAY HOMAGE TO THE DECEASED

Dina Nagar (Gurdaspur), July 29-

          Asking the opposition to refrain from ‘politicizing’ the issue of terrorist attack in Dina Nagar on Monday, the Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today said that cheap politics was undesirable and unwarranted on the issue of national interest.

          Interacting with the media persons after visiting the premises of Police station used by the Terrorists as a hide out during the recent attack here today, the Chief Minister said that politics could be done on issues related to economic, social or political field but politics on the issues concerned with the unity and integrity of the country was shameful. He said that it was the time when all the political parties and their leaders must join hands to combat the grave problem of terrorism. “It is highly deplorable that few political leaders are trying to get political mileage by indulging in politicking over this issue”, added Mr. Badal.

          The Chief Minister said that the state government would make whole hearted efforts to further modernize the Police force in the state. Batting for liberal central assistance to modernize the police force in the state, he said that it was the need of the hour so as to further equip the state Police force with modern weapons. “We can wait for some more time for funds for building bridges and roads but funds for modernizing the Police force must be released expeditiously”, added Mr. Badal. 

          Replying to another query, the Chief Minister said that militancy could not become successful until and unless the people of that region do not support it. He said that the people of state were totally against terrorism and they oppose it outrightly. “This is the reason due to which terrorism cannot raise its ugly head again in the state”, added Mr. Badal.

          Lauding the Punjab Police for showing exemplary courage to combat this terrorist attack, the Chief Minister said that if the Police force had not taken timely action then the loss due to this attack would have been manifold. He said that big plan aimed at disturbing the hard earned peace of the state has been foiled by the state Police, for which the entire nation salutes it. “The recent terror attack might have resulted in a far more grave tragedy having severe implications in terms of mass casualties and heavy destruction. God forbid this trail of impending huge loss has been averted due to the swift action and alertness on the part of our brave force”, added Mr. Badal.

          Earlier, the Chief Minister visited the premises of the Police station to take stock of the entire situation. Mr. Badal specially visited the building that was used by the terrorists to take shelter during the operation and enquired about the whole operation by the senior officers. He was apprised by the senior Police officers including Inspector General Mr. Ishwar Chander and Senior Superintendent of Police Dr. Gurpreet Singh Toor about the entire operation undertaken by the Police to flush out the terrorists during the counter insurgency operation on Monday.

          In the afternoon, the Chief Minister also visited the houses of martyred cops and civilians, who lost their life during the operation, to share his heartfelt sympathies with the bereaved families. He met the families of Sukhdev Singh in village Attepur (Pathankot), Amarjeet Singh in village Jagatpur (Pathankot), Desraj in village Jungle Bhiwani (Pathankot), Bodhraj in village Shaadipur (Pathankot), Ghulam Rasool in village Shahpur (Gurdaspur) and Nirmala Devi in village Avakhaan (Gurdaspur) to pay homage to the departed soul.

          The Chief Minister was accompanied by Chief Parliamentary Secretary Mr. GS Babbehali, MLAs Mrs. Seema Kumari and Mr. Ashwani Sharma, former Ministers Mr. Nirmal Singh Kahlon and Jathedar Sucha Singh Langah, Director General of Police (DGP) Home Guards Mr. SK Sharma, Inspector General Mr. Ishwar Chander, his Special Principal Secretary Mr. Ajoy Kumar Sharma, Deputy Commissioner of Gurdaspur and Pathankot Dr. Abhinav Trikha and Mr. Sukhwinder Singh, Deputy Inspector General of Police Mr. AK Mittal, Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Dr. Gurpreet Singh Toor and SSP Pathankot Mr. Rakesh Kaushal.

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STATE LEVEL FUNCTION ON MARTYRDOM DAY OF SHAHEED UDHAM SINGH POSTPONED

CM TO PAY SOLEMN HOMAGE DURING THE NATIONAL MOURNING AT SUNAM ON JULY 31

FRESH DATE OF STATE LEVEL FUNCTION TO BE ANNOUNCED LATER ON

Chandigarh, July 29:

The Punjab government has postponed the annual state level function to observe the martyrdom day of Shaheed Udham Singh on July 31 at Sunam in the light of weeklong national mourning in the memory of former President Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam, who passed away on July 27, 2015. The fresh date for the state level function to be observed with regard to martyrdom of Shaheed Udham Singh would be announced later on.

However, the Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal would pay homage to the great martyr at Sunam on the solemn occasion on July 31. Similarly, the other dignitaries would also pay homage to Shaheed Udham Singh at other places in the state on the same day.

Disclosing this here today, a spokesperson of the Chief Minister’s Office said that seven-day mourning in the memory of Dr. Kalam, from July 27 to August 2, 2015 is already on in Punjab.

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Visits SP Baljit Singh’s family to share his condolences

OUR GOVERNMENT WOULD EVER BE AT FAMILY’S BECK AND CALL IN THIS HOUR OF GRIEF- BADAL

ASKS FAMILY OF SLAIN SP TO TAKE PRIDE AND HONOUR ON HIS MARTYRDOM

GOVERNMENT COMMITTED TO EXTEND HELPING HAND TO THE BEREAVED FAMILY

CM REITERATES HIS COMMITMENT TO ENSURE SECURITY AND SAFETY OF PEOPLE AT ALL COSTS

Kapurthala, July 29: Reiterating State government’s firm commitment to extend all possible help to the bereaved family of the slain SP Baljit Singh, who made a supreme sacrifice in defending country’s unity and integrity, the Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today said, “Our government would ever be at family’s beck and call and leave no stone unturned to help them in this hour of grief”.

The Chief Minister who visited the hapless family to share his heartfelt condolences with the distressed family said that the countrymen would ever remain indebted to unparalleled sacrifice made by SP Baljit Singh, who attained martyrdom to safeguard the security and sovereignty of the country.

Paying glorious tributes to the great martyr SP Baljit Singh, who had brought glory to the country in general and especially to Punjab being the son of the soil through his exemplary courage, professional commitment and gallantry deeds during the call of his duty. He recalled the unprecedented sacrifice made by SP Baljit Singh had saved our nation and state from colossal loss and destruction beyond anyone’s imagination. Mr. Badal said that the family of this brave son of Punjab must feel proud and honoured as he attained martyrdom rather dying an ordinary death. "It’s a huge loss, I understand but instead of grieving his demise, you should feel proud on his martyrdom as he saved thousands of innocent lives in the country by laying down his life for a greater cause", added Mr. Badal.

Recalling the gallantry traditions of sacrifice in the family, the Chief Minister said that Punjab had always championed the cause of peace, communal harmony and brotherhood due to the sacrifices made by such valiant people. He said that all countrymen were with the family of this national hero, who had laid down his life at the altar of his motherland to protect its sovereignty and honour. "Follow the high ideals set by your forefathers to serve the country with utmost zeal and dedication", Mr. Badal solaced the children. 

The Chief Minister assured the grieved family members that the state government was duty bound to help them in this hour of crisis and every step would be taken to extend a helping hand to the family. 

Later on interacting with the media persons, the Chief Minister highly appreciated the Punjab Police for tackling this terror attack efficaciously. He said that Punjab Police has shown that it was fully capable to deal with such situation at any point of time. Mr. Badal said that Army and Para Military forces were meant for some bigger operations adding that in case the situation warranted their involvement then the state government would not have hesitated to hand over the command of counter insurgency operation to the Army.

Replying to another query, the Chief Minister said that since long Punjab had remained a Peaceful state as no such untoward incident had taken place in recent past. However, he said that this operation had given an opportunity to reassess the situation and overcome our weaknesses and follies, if any. "We will certainly take stock of the entire situation and examine the finer details of operation so as to undertake modernization of Police force, if needed”, added Mr. Badal. 

The Chief Minister said that it was the high time to boost the morale of our forces so as to crush the ugly head of anti social elements trying to disrupt the hard earned peace besides retarding the pace of progress and development in the state. He said that it was the moral responsibility of every countryman to avert any danger, threat and challenge posed to our country’s security and integrity. Mr. Badal made firm resolve that the state government would not allow anybody to disturb the hard earned peace and communal harmony in the state at any cost.

The Chief Minister exhorted the people to exercise restraint in this hour of crisis and not get swayed away by the rumors and misgivings spread by forces inimical to the interests of the state. He also solicited whole hearted support from the media so that no perceptible threat was posed to peace and brotherhood in the state.

On an another query, the Chief Minister said that there was no question of compromising with the security of people and adequate security cover was there to provide protection to life and security of people. He said that the state government had already pruned the VIP security cover drastically to ensure that more and more force was deployed in field. 

To another query, the Chief Minister said that he was very much present in the state to tackle any such problem and it was his responsibility to provide security and safety to the people. Mr. Badal said that being the head of state it was his prime duty to ensure protection to people and he was performing his duty diligently well. 

The Chief Minister was accompanied by MLA Bibi Jagir Kaur, former Minister Bibi Upinderjeet Kaur, ADGP Mr. Hardeep Dhillon, his Special Principal Secretary Mr. Ajoy Kumar Sharma, IG Mr Lok Nath Angra, DIG Kunwar Vijay Partap and Deputy Commissioner Mr DS Mangat.

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PUNJAB RECONSTITUTES NATIONAL SERVICE SCHEME ADVISORY COMMITTEE

·        DEPUTY CHIEF MINISTER TO BE THE CHAIRMAN

·        COMMITTEE MEMBERS TO HOLD OFFICE FOR 3 YEARS

Chandigarh, July 29:

The Punjab Government has re-constituted the National Service Scheme Advisory Committee. The committee members would hold their office for a term of 3 years.

Disclosing this, an official spokesperson said that the Deputy Chief Minister, Punjab in his capacity as Minister for Sports and Youth Affairs Department has been appointed as Chairman of the committee.

Divulging more, the spokesperson said that the Chief Secretary,Punjab, Secretary Sports and Youth Affairs, Punjab, Vice-Chancellors of Panjab University Chandigarh, Punjabi University Patiala, P.A.U. Ludhiana, Guru Nanak Dev University Amritsar, Punjab Technical University Jalandhar, Thapar Engineering and Technical Institute Patiala, Principal Secretary Sports and Youth Affairs, Punjab, Director Employment Department Punjab, Director Health Services Department Punjab, Director Information and Public Relations Department Punjab, Director Agriculture Department Punjab, Chief Conservator of Forests, Punjab,  Director Technical Education and Industrial Training Department, Director Rural Development and Panchayats, D.P.I. (Secondary) Punjab, D.P.I. (Colleges) Punjab, Director SC/BC Welfare Department Punjab, Director General CPYTE, Director Youth Services Punjab, Deputy Programme Advisor, National Service Scheme, Regional Centre, Chandigarh, Co-ordinator (Training), Information and Training Centre, Punjabi University Patiala, Chairman Pingalwara Amritsar, Secretary Red Cross, Punjab and Deputy Director General, N.C.C. Chandigarh have been inducted as Members while State Liasion Officer, National Service Scheme Cell has been included in the committee as Member Secretary.

The spokesperson also said that the Programme Co-ordinators of National Service Scheme in Panjab University Chandigarh, Punjabi University Patiala, P.A.U. Ludhiana, Guru Nanak Dev University Amritsar, Punjab Technical University Jalandhar, Thapar Engineering and Technical Institute Patiala, Lovely University Phagwara and Guru Angad Dev Veterinary and Animal Sciences University (GADVASU) have been inducted as Special Invitees.

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 PUNJAB FORMS COMMITTEE TO MONITOR COST OF CULTIVATION STUDY

G.S. KALKAT TO BE CHAIRMAN

Chandigarh, July 29:

 The Punjab Government has formed a committee to monitor Cost of Cultivation Study in the state.

According to an official spokesperson, the Chairman of Punjab Farmers Commission Mr. G.S. Kalkat has been appointed Chairman of the committee while Financial Commissioner (Development), Secretary, Planning Department, Commissioner Agriculture, Punjab and Director (Research) P.A.U. have been inducted as members. The spokesperson also said that Economic Adviser, Punjab would be the Member Secretary of the committee.

Divulging details, the Spokesperson said that the committee would accord final approval to sample designs for district wise Cost of Cultivation Study, Select main crops for district wise study, Monitor the study and review the progress after 3 months and give suggestions. 

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 PUNJAB & HARYANA HIGH COURT TO CONDOLE THE DEMISE OF JUSTICE PUNCHHI ON 3rd AUGUST

CHANDIGARH, JULY 29:

 The Punjab and Haryana High Court would convene a Full Court Reference to condole the sad demise of Mr. Justice M.M. Punchhi, Former Chief Justice of India on 3rd August, 2015 at 4 pm in the High Court Auditorium. It is pertinent to mention here that Justice Punchhi expired on June 17, 2015.

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PUNJAB RIGHT TO SERVICE COMMISSION CHAIRMAN REVIEWS DELIVERY OF SERVICES

Chandigarh, July 29:

         Dr. D.S Verka, Commissioner Punjab Right To Service Commission  visited Patiala, Nabha, Samana, Rajpura, and Patran where he inspected various delivery points such as Suwidha Centre, Police Community Center, Fard Kender, Municipal Corporation, Civil Hospital and other Centers to oversee the delivery of services being provided to the people within notified timelines. The Commissioner also held meeting with the officers/officials of different departments to review the delivery of services and difficulties being faced by them. The issues of some of the service seekers were addressed at the spot.

           According to the spokesperson of the commission , total 29,51, 830 applicants have availed the notified services during the period June, 2015. Till now 4,96,59,644 applicants have been provided notified services since the inception of Punjab Right to Service Act, 2011. Only 36,808 applications are pending out of which 24752 pertain to the service “Mata Kaushalya Yojna” which has been scrapped by the Government and concerned departments have been asked to clear rest of the applications immediately.

          The spokesperson also said that the basis of Monthly Information System (MIS )reports received from various districts, the Commission took suo-moto notice in groups of cases where service was delayed beyond timelines without sufficient cause. With the intervention of the Commission 1160 such cases have been disposed of during June, 2015. Apart from this, suo-moto action was initiated by the Commission in 20 individual cases.

            Divulging more details, the spokesperson said that the Commission has recommended to the State Government certain amendments in the 10 notified services of Health department. Total 69 officers/officials have been penalized by Commission as well as 2nd Appellate Authorities for not providing services within timeline notified by the State Govt. under Punjab Right to Service Act, 2011.

          The spokesperson further said that a HelpDesk for providing information to General Public regarding the services being rendered by the Commission, procedure for obtaining these services and other queries relating to the complaints/requests made to the Commission has been set up with telephone No. 0172-2792181.The Commission has so far referred 447 complaints including 11 during June, 2015 to various authorities for sympthatic consideration which were not covered under the services notified by the Punjab Govt. under Punjab Right to Service Act, 2011.

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CM TO VISIT HOUSE OF MARTYR BALJIT SINGH ON WEDNESDAY AT KAPURTHALA

TO MEET THE BEREAVED FAMILIES OF SLAIN COPS AND CIVILIANS

CANCELS ALL HIS PRE-SCHEDULED ENGAGEMENTS TODAY IN VIEW OF FEVER

Chandigarh, July 28:

The Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal would visit the residence of SP (D) Baljit Singh tomorrow at Kapurthala to share his heartfelt sympathies with the bereaved family and also meet the families of three Punjab home guards and three civilians who lost their lives in the Dina Nagar terror attack on Monday.

Disclosing this here today, a spokesperson of the Chief Minister’s Office said that Mr. Badal would also visit the families of grieved families of Punjab Home Guards (PHG) Des Raj, Bodh Raj and Sukhdev Singh, who attained martyrdom along with SP (D) Mr. Baljit Singh while displaying unparalleled valor, commitment and patriotism during the call of their duty.

Apart from these, the Chief Minister would also call on the bereaved families of the deceased civilians including Mr. Amarjeet Singh (Dina Nagar), Mrs. Nirmala Devi (Village Awakha, Dina Nagar) and Mr. Ghulam Rasul (village Shahpur, Dina Nagar), who died during the terror attack at Dina Nagar on Monday.

The spokesperson further said that, the Chief Minister despite his ill health closely monitored the entire operation to flush out terrorists from Police station, Dina Nagar throughout the day and even visited the injured to enquire their well being at Guru Nanak Hospital in Amritsar, the moment they were rushed for treatment after the attack. Meanwhile, Mr. Badal has canceled all his pre-scheduled engagements and meetings slated for today to take rest on the advice of Doctors attending on him, as he was still down with fever. 

Sukhbir Badal welcomes Polish offer to help Punjab farmers turn entrepreneurs

 Warsaw (Poland), July 28 - Punjab Deputy chief minister Sukhbir Singh Badal today welcomed a Polish proposal to turn farmers into food entrepreneurs by investing in food processing technologies and farm machinery in Punjab.

Addressing an august gathering at a business seminar organised by the Indo Polish Chamber of Commerce at the Agriculture ministry here, Mr Badal said Punjab wanted its farmers to take the next step towards becoming entrepreneurs and could follow Poland's model. He invited Polish investors to establish small food and fruit processing units. "Once these take off they could be replicated elsewhere also and help in reducing food wastage in our country", he added.

Mr Sukhbir Badal also detailed how the advances made by Polish companies in the agriculture and allied agriculture sector could be made to good use. He accepted a proposal by Polish Deputy minister for Agriculture Tadeusz Nalewajk for joint cooperation in this sector to raise income levels in the farm sector in both countries.

He also invited Poland to become one of the partner countries in the forthcoming Invest Punjab summit being held at Chandigarh in end October.

The Deputy CM also gave a detailed presentation to Polish government officials and investors. He detailed how the Punjab government had through two twin initiatives kickstarted recent investment of Rs 15,000 crore into the State. He said the government had come out with an industrial policy which came out with incentives including VAT retention. He said besides this the State had created a new Invest Punjab office which had led to fast clearance of all new projects within 30 to 35 days.

Speaking on the occasion, Polish Deputy minister for agriculture Tadeusz Nalewajk announced a Go India campaign for Polish investors. He said Poland had also developed an extremely high quality farming system suited for small family farms. "This system would be very suited to Punjab also", he said adding small food and Agro processing could boost rural economy considerably.

Polish Deputy minister of Economy Arkadiusz Bak while speaking said Poland was keen to boost trade relations with India and there was a great scope of economic cooperation between both countries.

Polish Foreign Investment department Director Ilona Chojnowsla highlighted how Poland's economy had been boosted with the creation of 14 SEZs and how Polish investors were expanding their businesses overseas. Representatives of more than 20 Polish companies were also present on the occasion.

Invest Punjab CEO Anirudh Tewari gave an overview of investment in Punjab and the steps being taken to facilitate new investment. Two businessmen who are part of the Punjab government team - Bhavdeep Sardana of Sukhjit Starch and Anoop Bector of Bector Food provided a perspective of the investment climate for prospective Polish entrepreneurs.

Others present on the occasion were Jangveer Singh, Media Advisor to the Deputy chief minister, Additional chief secretary Suresh Kumar and additional principal secretary P.S. Aujla. EOM

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MAJITHIA CONDOLES FORMER PRESIDENT

 DR. APJ ABDUL KALAM’S DEMISE

Chandigarh, July 28:

  Punjab Revenue & Public Relations Minister Mr. Bikram Singh Majithia expressed grief over sudden demise of former President of India, Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam, who passed away yesterday.

In a condolence message, Mr. Majithia said that Dr Kalam was a people's president and will be alwaysremembered for his passion for science and innovationsbesides grooming of scientists, educationists and students.He will always remain an inspiration to entirenation generation. 

PUNJAB SKILL DEVELOPMENT MISSION TO ENROLL 1 LAKHS YOUTH OF THE STATE

 Chandigarh, July 28:

Punjab Government today chalked out a detailed action plan under Punjab Skill Development Mission to  upgrade the skills of 1 lakh youth of the State  to make them employable in upcoming new age industry. The detailed modalities and action plans of the various skill development initiatives of Punjab Skill development mission was reviewed by Mr. Sarvesh Kaushal,Chief Secretary, Punjab while chairing the steering committee of the Mission. Punjab Government had notified the ‘Punjab Skill Development Mission’ to oversee and co-ordinate the implementation of various skill development schemes across all the departments. Steering Committee has been constituted to frames policies for the mission under the guidance of Governing Council and takes financial and administrative decisions concerning the mission

Disclosing this, the official spokesperson said that during the meeting, a detailed presentation regarding the present status of the establishment of Multi Skill Development Centers (MSDC) was made by the Mission Director Mr. R K Verma. Chief Secretary was apprised that the detailed project report of setting up MSDC at Ludhiana has been finalized and sent to National Skill Development Council for final approval. The modalities of setting up MSDCs at Amritsar, Jalandhar, Bathinda, Hoshiarpur and Ropar like identification of space, course finalization, building & architectural plans, training infrastructure, finalization of services providers were also discussed during the meeting.

For the Skill training initiatives in health sectors, the construction work of 3 skill development centers and 6 hostels at Patiala, Faridkot and Amritsar has already commenced and would be completed in stipulated time. The estimated cost of the project is Rs. 33.88 crore. For setting up of Skill development centers in the construction sector, it was apprised that 1.78 acres of land at Ludhiana and 2 acres of land each at SAS Nagar, Amritsar and Jalandhar has been identified. Chief Secretary directed the Principal Secretary, Labour to complete the digital survey in next 3 days. He also directed, Chief Architect to finalize the design drawings of the upcoming Skill Development centers in next 10 days.

Department of Transport is already in the process of setting up Skill Development Centers in Automobile sector in its upcoming Institute of Driving Training and Research (IDTR) Kapurthala and Regional Driving Training Center Malerkotla. Chief Secretary asked the Department of Transport to dovetail all its skill development initiatives with the Punjab Skill Development Mission so that all the skill development courses are delivered in a standardized manner across the State.

For the skill development initiatives in Agriculture and Animal Husbandry sector, the Chief Secretary asked the concerned departments to expedite the establishment of skill development centers at Punjab Agriculture University Ludhiana and Guru Nanak Dev Veterinary and Animal Sciences University Ludhiana. The Memorandum of Understanding with Agriculture Skill Development Council shall be signed in the next 2 weeks. Further a center of excellence will also be established in Farm Mechanization in the State.

The Chief Secretary also reviewed the progress of the setting up of 2000 Skill Training Centres for rural girls. It was intimated that for the setting up of these Skill Training Centres, the available infrastructure of government schools would be used to impart skill training to the rural girls and women at their doorsteps. The Chief Secretary asked the Mission Director to focus on the capacity building of the Punjab Skill Development mission by taking senior officials on deputation from the Departments like Construction, Rural Development, Higher Education, School Education etc so that skill development initiatives of these departments can be implemented in its true spirit and also within stipulated timelines. 

            The Mission Director apprised the Chief Secretary that the Punjab Government has already introduced skill courses as per national skill qualification framework in 100 schools in the year 2014 whereas this course has been introduced in another 300 schools in the year 2015-16. He said that the department of school education is executing the project in participation with national skill Development Corporation. Further, Under Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Grameen Kaushalya Yojana, the proposal of Rs. 72.31 crore has been submitted to Ministry of Rural Development, GoI for imparting training to 15000 students. The empowered committee has already approved the grant of Annual Action Plan (AAP) status to Punjab with a target of 15000 trainees in financial year 2015-16.

Chief Secretary instructed the Mission Director to have fortnightly meetings of Punjab Skill Development Mission to expedite all the projects under the mission. The registrations of applicants for various skill development initiatives should start in next 2 weeks Mission Director must hold meetings with concerned departments to resolve all pending issues for start of these development centers.

 The officers present in the meeting included Mr. Vishwajit Khanna, Principal Secretary, Labour, Mr. C Roul, Principal Secretary, School Education, Mr. Roshan Sankaria, Financial Commissioner, Rural Development, Mr. A Venuprasad, Secretary Higher Education, Mr. R K Verma, Secretary Technical Education apart from other senior officers of the State.

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PUNJAB NAMBARDAR UNION DELEGATION MEETS KOHAR

SUBMITS  CHARTER OF DEMANDS

Chandigarh, July 28:

         Punjab Nambardar Union delegation under the leadership of Mr. Gurpal Singh Samra met the Punjab Transport Minister S. Ajit Singh Kohar in his office and submitted the charter of their demands.

Disclosing this here today, a spokesman of Punjab Transport Department said that Union has demanded to avail free bus facility on the pattern of Haryana Government, exemption from toll tax for State President vehicle; verification in Revenue department only from Nambardar and ensuring the registration of concerned village Nambardar.

The Spokesman further said that union also demanded  the implementation of enhanced monthly honorarium from 1000/- to 1500/-per month and regularize the current allowance, Implementation of the decision to provide rooms to Nambardars at District and Tehsil level and ensuring the representation of Namberdars in tehsil and district  redressal  committees.

 Mr. Kohar listened to the demands sympathetically and assured the delegation of resolving all demands on priority basis.

The Delegation included Mr. Labh Singh, General Secretary, Mr. Shingara Singh, Press Secretary besides Namberdars from the various districts of the state.

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 DR KALAM'S DEMISE; COUNTRY HAS LOST A GREAT TEACHER: CHEEMA

·       A BORN TEACHER AND REAL KARAMYOGI NEVER DIES

·       TEACHERS TO DEVOTE SOME EXTRA TIME DURING SEVEN DAY MOURNING AS A TRIBUTE TO THE GREAT TEACHER

CHANDIGARH, JULY 28:

The Punjab Education Minister Dr. Daljit Singh Cheema expressed deep shock over the sad demise of former president of India Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam. In a statement issued today Dr. Cheema said that the country has lost a great teacher, a scholar and an eminent scientist who was committed to the cause of Education till his last breath. He will be remembered for his love and passion for students in the years to come.

The Education Minister appealed to all the teachers of the state to devote some extra time during the period of seven day mourning declared by Government of India as a tribute to the great teacher. He said that Education department will also organise a motivational lecture on the life and teachings of Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam on EDUSAT system so that all teachers and students may learn from the life of the great man. in addition all the school heads are being instructed to bring the students about the life of Dr APJ Abdul Kalam at the time of daily morning assembly.

Paying rich tribute to a real Karamyogi, Education Minister said that to make children familiar with the life and teachings of the legend, like Dr. Kalam would be an inspiration to millions of students who come across his wisdom and knowledge.

---------BEAS BELT TO BE DEVELOPED AS HABITAT OF GHARIALS

PUNJAB WILDLIFE DEPARTMENT AND WORLD WIDE FUND FOR NATIURE COMPLETE SURVEY

Chandigarh, July 28:

The Punjab Wildlife Department and World Wide Fund for Nature (WWFN) have completed a survey as a consequence of which 15 Male and Female Gharials would be released in the Beas belt in February-March 2016.

Stating this, an official spokesperson said that this Endeavour is part of the plan of the State Government to make Beas Belt, near Harike Patan, a habitat of Gharials . The spokesperson further said that this would give impetus to the area in emerging as a major tourist destination.

The spokesperson further elaborated that experts from the WWFN have planned to release Gharials near Village Karmowal in beas belt as they have found this area has water bodies in ample measures with sand banks thereby making it suitable for being developed as habitat for these animals.  The spokesperson said that a close watch would be kept on Gharials after being released and after the success of the initial phase, more Gharials would be released.

PUNJAB INSTITUTE OF MANAGEMENT INVITES APPLICATIONS FOR DIRECT ADMISSION TO MBA

·       NO FEE TO BE CHARGED FROM SC/ST CANDIDATES OF PUNJAB HAVING FAMILY INCOME LESS THAN RS. 2,50,000

Chandigarh, July 28:

The Punjab Institute of Management (I.K. Gujral Punjab Technical University) has invited applications for direct admission to the few vacant MBA seats.

Disclosing this, a spokesperson of the institute said that though the last date is 15th August, 2015 the seats are likely to be filled in 3 or 4 days time. The spokesperson divulged that interested candidates must bring all their original documents including DMCs/Degree along with a set of photocopies.

Divulging more details, the spokesperson said that as per Punjab Government rules , no fees would be charged from the candidates belonging to SC/ST category of Punjab, whose annual family income is less than Rs. 2,50,000. However, Rs. 8000 would have to be deposited as refundable security which would be returned after course completion.

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PUNJAB INVITES APPLICATIONS TO CREATE POLY GREEN HOUSE

· VEGETABLES CROPS ARE NOW BEING RAISED UNDER PROTECTED CONDITIONS IN THE HI-TECH POLY HOUSES

Chandigarh, July 28:

The Punjab Government has invited applications from person’s/firms/companies/societies etc. to ink the agreement to produce different vegetables crops grown in different Poly Green Houses.

An official spokesperson of Horticulture department said that the Punjab Government has developed a centre of excellence for vegetables at Kartarpur under National Horticulture Mission Scheme in collaboration with Israel Government. He said that different vegetables crops are now being raised under protected conditions in the hi-tech poly houses and in open field for whole season.

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RANIKE GIVES CLARION CALL TO ANIMAL HUSBANDRY DEPARTMENT TO GET PLANTATION OF MAXIMUM SAPLINGS

- ASKS OFFICERS/OFFICIALS TO MOTIVATE EVERY INDIVIDUAL FOR PLANTATION

CHANDIGARH, July 28:

The Punjab Animal Husbandry, Fisheries and Dairy Development Minister Mr. Gulzar Singh Ranike today gave a clarion call to department for maximum contribution in the ongoing sustainable program launched by state with plantation of maximum saplings. He also announced that state will honour officers/officials with outstanding contribution in this program.  

The Minister emphasized that every individual of animal husbandry, Fishries and dairy development departments should motivate their each and every contact including village sarpanches, panches and common masses for plantation of at least 2 saplings so that maximum contribution in this eco-friendly campaign could be registered.

The Minister also asked that educational institutions, NGOs, religious organizations should also be involved as partners in this environment-friendly program to make Punjab a rich green state.  Mr. Ranike said that for this purpose they have sent a communiqué to forest department as well as other departments concerned besides Punjab Agriculture University to seek cooperation from their sides.  

Describing the current weather appropriate for plantation, Mr. Ranike said that officers/officials of animal husbandry, Fisheries and dairy development departments should take personal interest in this campaign. He said that they should ensure the plantation of at least two saplings.

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VIGILANCE NABS PATWARI RED HANDED ACCEPTING BRIBE OF RS. 19,000

CHANDIGARH, JULY 28:

In a major breakthrough in its anti corruption campaign the sleuths of Vigilance Bureau, Bathinda Unit today nabbed a Patwari red handed while accepting a bribe of Rs. 19,000.

Disclosing this here today an official spokesperson of the Vigilance Bureau said that Patwari Joginder Singh posted at Revenue area, Kotbakhtu was nabbed on the complaint of Sukhraj Singh S/o Nachhtattar Singh of village Mannwala. In his complaint with the Vigilance Bureau, the petitioner has alleged that the Patwari was demanding a bribe of Rs. 24,000 for the division and transfer of his land. He said that the he has already paid the first instalment of the bribe to the tune of Rs. 5,000 to the Patwari whereas Rs. 19,000 was due to be paid to the Patwari to grease his hands.

On the tip of the complainant a trap was laid and the Patwari was apprehended red handed while accepting the bribe of Rs. 19,000 from the complainant. 

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TINU, SOM PARKASH, SC MLAS TAKE UP ISSUE OF POST MATRIC SCHOLARSHIPS

 ·       CHIEF MINISTER ISSUES DIRECTIONS FOR SMOOTH DISBURSEMENT OF SCHOLARHSIP AMOUNTS

Chandigarh July 28: Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal has issued instructions to the Welfare department to resolve issues pertaining to the scholarships being provided to the SC students immediately besides timely disbursement of scholarship amounts.  

          These directions were issued in a high level meeting presided over by Chief Minister while Chief Parliamentary Secretary Welfare Mr. Pawan Kumar Tinu, CPS Local Bodies Mr. Som Parkash accompanied by other SC MLAs and officers of welfare department were also present.  

             Disclosing this here today, Mr. Pawan Kumar Tinu and Mr. Som Parkash said that the Chief Minister issued directions to the Secretary Welfare of SC, Mr. Kirpa Shankar Saroj and director Welfare Ms. Alakhnanda Dayal to ensure proper procedure being adopted in the disbursement of the financial aid to eligible SC students.The leaders who called on the Chief Minister expressed their gratitude to him for having taken prompt action in handling such issued benefitting lakhs of SC students.

Mr. Tinu apprised the Chief Minister of irregularities in the process of extending scholarships to the SC students by some institutes. He said that the procedure to provide post-matric scholarships should be simplified and the regularity must be ensured so that the timely benefit could reach to the beneficiaries.

            Taking cognizance of a few private institutes taking non-refundable fees from the SC students, Mr. Tinu said that it should be made mandatory to inform the concerned heads of the departments so that the scholarship amount could be directly credited to the accounts of the SC students in time.

            Urging the Chief Minister to take immediate corrective measures to ensure that the eligible candidate get the scholarships, Mr. Som Parkash said that a comprehensive strategy should be evolved to facilitate the under privileged students so that the financial scarcity should not hamper their studies. He also urged the chief minister to simplify the procedure of providing education loan to the SC students and ensure benefits to more than 2.75 lakh SC students across the state.        

            Both the leaders expressed their gratitude to the Chief Minister Mr. Badal for having waived off the loan amount of Rs. 11 Crore due with the families of the deceased debtors, who were unable to pay back the loan amount due to their poor financial status.

UNION FOOD PROCESSING INDUSTRY MINISTER HARSIMRAT KAUR BADAL LAUDS PUNJAB POLICE FOR BRAVERY AND ELIMINATING TERRORISTS….

 -STROINGLY CONDEMNS GRUESOME TERROR ATTACK

 - VOWS TO MAINTAIN COMMUNAL HARMONY

 - PRAISES BUS DRIVER AND RAILWAY PERSONNEL FOR THE  BRAVERY AND SAVING PRECIOUS LIVES..

 BATHINDA/CHANDIGARH, JULY 28

LAUDING THE bravery and prompt action of the Punjab Police in the gruesome terror attack at Dina Nagar on Monday, the Union Food Processing Industry Minister, Mrs. Harsimrat Kaur  Badal today described the success of Punjab police operation against terrorists as "a victory for the nation".

 In a press release issued here today, Mrs. Badal stated that during a Cabinet meeting on Tuesday, Honorable Prime Minister Mr. Narendra Modi strongly condemned the ghastly attack on innocent people and termed it as an attack on the nation. The Prime Minister hailed the exemplary valor and patriotic fervour displayed by the Punjab Police and Security personnel in dealing with the terrorists,” she said.

    Saluting the police personnel, who laid down their lives for the nation,  Mrs. Badal described them as martyrs to the cause of peace and patriotism, which will prove a foremost gain for peace and communal harmony in the state. 

    Offering condolences to the family of the people killed in the attack, Mrs. Badal said,” Gurdaspur Terror attack is highly condemnable. Condolences to families of brave Punjab Police & Security personnel & civilians who sacrificed their lives,”. 

   Expressing her deep sense of concern, Mrs. Harsimrat Kaur Badal said that with its courageous and highly professional conduct, the Punjab Police led by the Punjab DGP  and  security  forces succeeded in limiting the magnitude of the damage and pre-emptying a big tragedy.

    Hailing the exemplary courage and patriotic fervor displayed by the police personnel, the Union  Minister especially praised the acts of patriotic bravery displayed by Mr. Baljit Singh, the SP (Detective) Gurdaspur and other members of the police and home guards team.

   The Union Minister also had a special word of praise for the  bravery and quick response of Bus Driver Nanak Chand and Railway Personnel , who had saved several life's by their presence of mind. Besides she had a special word of praise for the unflinching support and cooperation given by the people of Dina Nagar during this operation. She also expressed her heartfelt sympathies with the bereaved families and assured all help to the victims.  

    Mrs.  Badal affirmed that Punjab would not allow terrorism  to raise its head in the state again and vowed to thwart nefarious designs of anti-national forces, who were trying to disturb hard earned peace on  the orders of their political masters  in Pakistan. She affirmed that the hard earned communal harmony and law & order situation would be maintained at any cost in the state.

   Mrs. Harsimrat Kaur Badal also strongly criticized  Amritsar Member Parliament and Former Punjab Chief Minister Captain  Amarinder Singh  and other  Congress leaders, who were trying to politicize such a sensitive issue for their vested political interests.

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 DR CHEEMA ALLOTS STATIONS TO NEWLY PROMOTED 27 PRINCIPALS AS PER THEIR CHOICE

CHANDIGARH, JULY 28:

The Education Minister Dr. Daljit Singh Cheema today handed over appointment and posting orders to the newly promoted 27 Principals. Stations were allotted to these Principals as per their choice.

Dr. Daljit Singh Cheema while addressing these principals said that the education department has allotted the station to the Principals adopting a transparent online procedure. Divulging the details he said that all the newly promoted Principals were called so that they could opt for their choice posting as per the availability. He said all the vacant stations were being flashed on a big screen. All the Principals were asked to give their preferences against the vacant station flashing on the screen. The stations were allotted at the spot as per the request of the Principals.

Dr. Cheema also exhorted them to discharge their duties of new assignment with full dedication and sincerity and become catalyst in making education system employment oriented. Prominent among others who were present in the function included Mr. Pardeep Aggarwal, DGSE, Mr. Gurdeep Singh, Special Secretary, School Education, Mr. Balbir Singh Dhol, DPI (Secondary Education), Mr. Harbans Singh Sandhu, DPI (Elementary Education) and Mr. Sukhdev Singh Kahlon, Director, SCERT.

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M KEEPING CLOSE TAB ON THE MANIKARAN BUS TRAGEDY IN HP

IG RAKESH CHANDRA APPRISES CM OF STRENUOUS

RESCUE OPERATIONS

RESCUE OPERATIONS BY NDRF TEAMS IN FULL SWING

OBSERVATION POSTS SET UP AT PANDOH AND LARJI DAMS TO LOCATE BODIES

Chandigarh, July 25: Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal was being constantly updated about the rescue and relief operations being carried out by the National Disaster Response Force Teams (NDRF) in close coordination with the Himachal Pradesh Administration to ferry out the bodies from the Parbati River in which an ill fated bus from Punjab carrying nearly 60 passengers fell on Thursday evening near Bhuntar in Kullu district.

Disclosing this here today, a spokesperson of the Chief Minister’s Office said that as per the reports received from IG Punjab Mr. Rakesh Chandra, who has been especially deputed to coordinate the relief and rescue operations by the State government has informed out of 21 injured, 17 have been discharged from the Local Government Hospital Kullu after treatment and four were admitted in PGIMER, Chandigarh. He said of 37 missing persons, nine bodies have been recovered so far and have been dispatched to their respective destinations in Punjab, which in turn have been further handed over to their family members.

Mr. Chandra informed that the NDRF teams have not yet got any major breakthrough in locating neither the bodies nor the bus because of muddy water due to heavy rains at higher reaches and strong current of the water downstream. He further said that few observation posts have been set up at the Pandoh and Larji Dams to spot these bodies seen afloat in the still water there. Even Control Rooms have also been set up at both these dams to give any information regarding the recovery of bodies to the concerned authorities in Himachal Pradesh.

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CM GIVES NOD TO SET UP BAAZIGAR AND TAPRIVAS DEVELOPMENT BOARD

·        JATHEDAR LABH SINGH DEVINAGAR APPOINTED AS CHAIRMAN

CHANDIGARH, JULY 25:

In order to ensure the welfare of Baazigar and Taprivas community, the Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today approved the setting up of Baazigar and Taprivas Development Board and appointed Jathedar Labh Singh Devinagar as its Chairman.

          Disclosing this here today a spokesperson of the Chief Minister’s Office said that Mr. Badal cleared the file in this regard this evening and formal orders regarding the appointment would be issued shortly by the Secretary SCs/BCs Welfare.  

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 BADAL ALONG WITH UNION DEFENCE MINISTER DEDICATES MAI BHAGO ARMED FORCES PREPARATORY INSTITUTE FOR GIRLS TO NATION

CM ANNOUNCES SLEW OF INCENTIVES FOR DEFENCE PERSONNEL & EX-SERVICEMEN

ONE TIME GRANT FOR PARAM VIR CHAKRA, MAHAVIR CHAKRA AND VIR CHAKRA ENHANCED TO RS.2 CRORE, RS.1 CRORE AND RS.50 LAC RESPECTIVELY

WIDOWS OF EX-SERVICEMEN TO GET BENEFIT OF DUAL PENSION

TRAVELLING ALLOWANCE FOR WAR WIDOWS UP FROM RS.150 TO RS.500 PER MONTH

EX-GRATIA IN CASE OF DEATH INCREASED FROM RS.2 LAC TO RS.5 LAC

IN CASE OF DISABILITY OF 75% AND 50% AND ABOVE EX-GRATIA UP FROM RS.2 LAC TO RS.4 LAC AND RS.1 LAC TO RS.2 LAC RESPECTIVELY

OLD AGE HOME FOR EX-SERVICEMEN TO COME UP AT MOHALI OVER 1.5 ACRE LAND

PARRIKAR LAUDS CM FOR THIS UNIQUE INITIATIVE

SAYS GOI TO SOON TAKE A CALL TO ENHANCE OFFICER CADRE POSTS FOR WOMEN OFFICERS IN ARMED FORCES

KAMAL SHARMA COMPLIMENTS CM FOR ARMED FORCES INSTITUTES AND MERITORIOUS SCHOOLS

CHANDUMAJRA PATS PUNJAB FOR FARING WELL IN HRD

SAS Nagar (Mohali), July 25:

In recognition with the gallantry services rendered by the valiant Punjabis in the armed forces, the Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today announced to enhance the one time grant for the recipient of Param Vir Chakra from Rs.30 lac to Rs.2 Crore, Mahavir Chakra from Rs.20 lac to Rs.1 crore and Vir Chakra from Rs.15 lac to Rs.50 lac.

Addressing the gathering on the inauguration of Mai Bhago Armed Forces Preparatory Institute for Girls here in Sector 66 A, the Chief Minister further announced to enhance the amount of travelling allowance admissible to war widows from Rs.150 to Rs.500 per month with immediate effect. Likewise, he also announced to increase the amount of ex-gratia to all battle casualties in case of death from Rs.2 lac to Rs.5 lac and in case of disability of 75% and above from Rs.2 lac to Rs.4 lac and similarly it has been increased from Rs.1 lac to Rs. 2 lac in case of disability of 50% and above.

In another major relief to the families of ex-servicemen, the Chief Minister also declared to grant dual pension to the widows of ex-servicemen as these widows were earlier only entitled to either army pension or Punjab government pension. The Chief Minister also announced to establish old age home for the ex-servicemen in Mohali, for which the GMADA has already earmarked 1.5 acre land.

Earlier, welcoming the Union Defence Minister Mr. Manohar Parrikar, the Chief Minister said he was indebted to him for accepting his personal invitation for the inauguration of this institute, first of its kind in Asia. He said the slogan ‘Jai Jawan Jai Kisan’ given by the former Prime Minister of India Mr. Lal Bahadur Shashtri aptly conformed to the dedicated soldiers and hardworking farmers of Punjab as both played a vanguard role in safe guarding our borders from external aggression and making our country self reliant in food production. ‘That’s why Punjab was known as the food bowl and sword arm of the country’, said Mr. Badal.

Dwelling on the valiant deeds of the Punjabis in the national freedom struggle, Mr. Badal said that more than 80% of martyrs who sacrificed their lives belonged to Punjab and several historic movements like Gaddar, Babbar Akali, Kuka were started from here. He also mentioned about the enormous contribution of Shaheed-e-Azam Bhagat Singh, Lala Lajpat Rai, Kartar Singh Sarabha and Udham Singh. He said it was also a matter of great honour and pride that Bhai Mehraj Singh was the first Punjabi martyr who laid down his life against the British imperialism. He also recounted supreme contribution made in the Indian army by the two great Generals of the country Air Marshal Arjan Singh & Field Marshal Gen Manekshaw. Likewise, he also recalled the unparalled contribution made by Gen Jagjit Singh Arora who emerged as a hero in the Bangladesh war. Similarly, the gallantry services of Gen Harbaksh Singh and Gen Gurbaksh Singh would be ever remembered by one and all.

Seeking Union Defence Minister’s personal intervention to enhance the posts of women officer cadre in the armed forces, the Chief Minister urged Mr. Parrikar to do the needful at the earliest so that our women cadets passing out from this prestigious academy could be absorbed in the defence services. He apprised the Union Defence Minister that 54 cadets from Maharaja Ranjit Singh Armed Forces Preparatory Institute for Boys have been selected as officers in National Defence Academy since its inception in 2011. Mr. Badal also said that 16 CPYTE centres have been set up across the state from where 30% of the trained youth have been recruited in the army. He said Punjab Ex-servicemen Corporation (PESCO) has offered employment to nearly 8000 ex-servicemen as security personnel in various government institutes and the state run thermal plants. To perpetuate the marshal legacy amongst our younger generation our government has already set up a Baba Banda Singh Bahadur Memorial at Chappar Chiri in Mohali district. Another war memorial is being set up at Amritsar first of its kind in country to showcase the legendary sacrifices made by the armed personnel. Apart from this, the state-of-the-art war memorial is being set up at Kartarpur to project the enormous contribution of Punjabis in the Indian freedom struggle. As many as 4 new NCC units have been established in the state.

Speaking on the occasion, the Union Defence Minister Mr. Manohar Parrikar complimented the Chief Minister for taking this unique initiative to set up Mai Bhago institute to train girls for armed forces as it would prove to be a milestone for attracting girls to opt armed services as their career. Mr. Parrikar said his Ministry has already taken a call to relax certain norms for the recruitment of women in the armed forces and a final decision was expected to be taken within next two months. He also mentioned at present there were 3298 women officers in the army and this number was likely to be enhanced manifold. Thus, he requested Mr. Badal to also enhance the number of seats in the Mai Bhago Institute so that more such aspirants could be accommodated in armed forces.

Mr. Parrikar further said that this institute was dedicated to Mai Bhago a brave Sikh women warrior and embodiment of courage, justice and leadership in the Sikh history. He said this institute was not merely an academy to train girls for defence services but would also play a stellar role in the ‘empowerment of women’ too.

In his address, President of BJP Punjab State Unit Mr. Kamal Sharma said that the institutions like Mai Bhago and Maharaja Ranjit Singh Armed Forces Preparatory Institutes for girls and boys besides meritorious schools were the dream projects of the Chief Minister which would certainly shape the destiny of our youth in the near future.

Speaking on the occasion, Member Parliament from Sri Anandpur Sahib Prof. Prem Singh Chandumajra said that said that Human Resource Development (HRD) was one of the core sectors which must be prioritized by every state by opening such projects which would be instrumental in providing better job opportunities. He expressed satisfaction that Punjab government was doing exceedingly well in the HRD and hoped the efforts of Mr. Badal would soon fructify in producing trained army officers both men and women, for which our state was once known for its glorious legacy in country’s defence services. He urged the Union Defence Minister to clear their pending proposal in his ministry for setting up Officers Training Academy (OTA) at Sri Anandpur Sahib at the earliest.

At the very onset, the Employment Generation and Transport Minister Mr. Ajit Singh Kohar welcomed the Union Defence Minister Mr. Manohar Parrikar and other dignitaries present on the occasion.

Earlier, the former Chiefs of the Army Staff Gen Deepak Kapoor and Gen VP Malik in their speeches impressed upon the girls to take up armed forces as their career as it was the only profession in the country which was a true blend of the qualities viz patriotism, dedication, sincerity and leadership. They opined that the women officers in the army could be role models to inspire the young girls to join army through their brave deeds. They said that Mai Bhago institute would now lay a strong foundation to pave a way for the girl cadets especially from Punjab to join armed forces as officers.

In her address, Major Gen Rakhi Singh said that the armed forces were now opening up to accommodate women officers as earlier it was considered to be the strong hold of only males and the scenario has now entirely changed with many branches like medical, nursing and education were attracting women to join these services.

On the occasion, the Chief Minister along with Union Defence Minister digitally unveiled the plaque to mark the inauguration of Mai Bhago Armed Forces Preparatory Institute for Girls by pressing a button.

Mr. Badal also honoured Gen (Retd.) and Mrs. Deepak Kapoor, Gen (Retd.) and Mrs. VP Malik, Capt. Bana Singh, PVC and Maj Gen Mrs. Rakhi Singh with the sword, a shawl and a memento.

Both Army Commander of Western Command Lt. Gen. KJ Singh and Lt. Gen NPS Hira, GoC 11 Corps, Jalandhar presented a silver trophy to the Director of Mai Bhago Armed Forces Preparatory Institute for Girls Maj Gen (Retd.) IP Singh.

Prominent amongst other who were present on the occasion included Cabinet Ministers Mr. Chunni Lal Bhagat, Mr. Madan Mohan Mittal, Mr. Parminder Singh Dhindsa and Dr. Daljit Singh Cheema, MLA Mr. Gobind Singh Longowal, Senior Akali Leader Mr. Balwant Singh Ramoowalia besides Special Principal Secretary to Chief Minister Mr. KJS Cheema and Director Maharaja Ranjit Singh Armed Forces Preparatory Institute Brigadier (Retd.) DS Grewal, Lt. Gen (Retd.) T.S. Gill, Chairman, Punjab Public Service Commission, Major Gen. (Retd.) J.S. Ghumman, Sri Dasmesh Academy Anandpur Sahib, Ropar, Major Gen. (Retd.) K.A.S. Bhullar, Project Director, Society for Poor & Meritorious students of Punjab, Director Defence Service Welfare Brigadier (Retd.) JS Arora, Director General C-PYTE Major General (Retd.) Rajesh Kumar Bawa, Deputy Commissioner SAS Nagar Mr. TPS Sidhu, IG Patiala Range Mr. Paramjeet Singh Gill, SSP SAS Nagar Mr. Gurpreet Singh Bhullar and Chairman-cum-Managing Director PESCO Lieutenant General Kuldeep Singh.

The function was attended by several retired army officers, ex-servicemen, CPYTE students, NCC Cadets, Army school students besides the cadets of Mai Bhago and Maharaja Ranjit Singh Armed Forces Preparatory Institutes.

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 Attwal attends meeting regarding 125th birth anniversary of  Dr B.R. Ambedkar at National level

CHANDIGARH, JULY 25:

A high level meeting has been held today under the chairmanship of Prime Minister of India Mr. Narinder Modi to celebrate the 125th birth anniversary of  Dr. B.R. Ambedkar at National level at Prime Minister residence, New Delhi . Dr. Charanjit Singh Atwal, Speaker Punjab Vidhan Sabha attended the meeting as a member. It may be mentioned here that  13 Union Ministers, three religious represententatives and Dr. Atwal, who is the only member from the states are the the members of this high level committee.

          Taking part in the deliberations during meeting Dr. Atwal said that a memorial  of  Dr. B.R. Ambedkar should also be constructed  at 26, Alipur Road on  the pattern of memorials of Mahatma Gandhi and other dignitaries constructed  in Delhi by purchasing adjoining land and bringing the place under Central Act.    Mr. Atwal also emphasis on the need to translate Baba Sahib's writings, which were mostly in English to disseminate these to each household. He also underlined the need for same syllabus for students throughout the country to provide equal education opportunities along with right to education   

CORRECTION

·  The name and designation of Director Maharaja Ranjit Singh Armed Forces Preparatory Institute, has been wrongly mentioned in the press note issued today regarding Inauguration of Mai Bhago Institute, as Brigadier (Retd.) DS Grewal instead of Major General (Retd.) BS Grewal

·  Kindly carry out the correction as mentioned above

·  Inconvenience is highly regretted 

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Sukhbir Badal announces farmers to be encouraged to establish mini solar plants in their own land

 (Says State open to subsidizing solar pumps from funds being given to PSPCL for free power)

 (Bikram Majithia announces State to allot mega solar projects of 50 mw each)

 (Solar Investors give thumbs up to Punjab govt for excellent facilitation)

 (47 solar investors honoured at the Punjab Solar Summit)

 Chandigarh, July 23 – Punjab Deputy chief minister Sukhbir Singh Badal today announced Punjab would encourage farmers to establish mini solar plants in their own land even as he announced that the State government was open to subsidizing installation of solar pumps for agricultural purposes from the funds being given to PSPCL for free power.

Presiding over the first ever state Solar Summit organized here, the Deputy chief minister also announced that the State would target establishment of solar generation capacity of 2,000 mw. He also congratulated New and Renewable Energy minister Bikram Singh Majithia and his entire team for the phenomenal solar energy capacity addition in Punjab which has increased from 9 mw in 2012 to 541 mw this year and brought in an investment of Rs 4,000 crore into the State.

Mr Badal said the decision to allot projects between 1 to 2.5 mw capacity to farmers to generate a total of 500 mw would turn farmers into entrepreneurs. He said 6,000 acres of land had already been registered with PEDA with a large number of farmers expressing their interest to establish their own mini solar plants.

Floating a new idea to the large number of solar entrepreneurs gathered at the summit from India and abroad, the Deputy CM said the State was open to the idea of subsidizing installation of solar pumps in the State. We can divert money being given to PSPCL as subsidy for free power for agricultural operations for installation of these pumps. He said the State would try to encourage the maximum solar pumps out of the 1.20 lakh pumps which are to be released to farmers soon. “This will reduce the burden on thermal power and also reduce the free power subsidy quotient in the long run”, he added.

                Mr Badal also called for an Invest India set up on the pattern of Invest Punjab office. “We have come up with the idea of one person, one telephone number and one address for all investors so that there is complete ease of doing business in Punjab”. He urged Prime Minister Narendra Modi to replicate this at the centre also. He said that after establishing ‘Invest Punjab’, the state had processed 174 proposals in an average time span of 38 days. “I have asked Invest Punjab CEO Anirudh Tewari to reduce this period to a maximum of 30 days”, he added.

Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Bikram Singh Majithia, New & Renewable Energy Minister said it was an honour for Punjab that the State which had been at the forefront of the green revolution, had now taken the lead in establishing a green power revolution in the country. He said it was to the credit of Punjab that it had succeeded in its Go Solar mission despite constraints of land. “We do not have any wastelands or deserts nor are we big States like Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh”.

                Detailing Punjab’s solar journey, Mr Majithia said this was achieved because Punjab came out with one of the best solar policies in the country by removing antiquated laws and conditions. “We also backed it up with a 25 year power purchase agreement with our electricity utility – the PSPCL. The fact that PSPCL has got a good credit rating of B+ also boosted investor confidence”, he said while thanking PSPCL Chairman K D Chaudhari for his role in Punjab’s solar story. He also highlighted that the vision of the Deputy CM had become known for ease of doing business and the resultant industrial climate which has been created helped the solar cause also.

Explaining the successes of Go Solar, the New and Renewable Energy minister also announced new initiatives to be taken up by his ministry. He said his ministry had taken a decision to allow establishment of mega projects of 50 mw each. He said due to problems in acquiring large tracts of land in Punjab, entrepreneurs could avail of this scheme even if they establish their project in separate tracts of land.

                He said one of the State’s biggest achievements was the creation of the world’s largest 7.5 mw single rooftop solar project at Radha Soami Satsang, Beas. He said it was heartening for him that this project was being enlarged further with a capacity addition of 12.5 mw. He said the State had allocated a further 53 mw for roof top projects.

                Describing wide network of irrigation canals another potential for solar expansion. Mr. Majithia said Punjab has more than 5000 kms canal lengths and it has decided to harness this potential by initially floating a tender for 20 mw capacity generation on canal tops.

Entrepreneurs bidding for this project will be eligible for a subsidy of Rs 3.5 crore per mw keeping in view the challenges in installation of such projects on canal tops.

Mr. Majithia said that Punjab has been successful in attracting the best companies from India like Sun group, Punj Lloyd Infrastructure, Lanco Solar, L & T Infrastructure, Fedders Lloyd, Emami Power, Azure Power, Mahindra, Hero Future Energy, Sterlite, Acme Solar and Renew Power besides others. Similarly, our foreign investors include the biggest solar companies worldwide including Sky Power Canada, Light House UK and Solardirect, France, he added. Besides this, Rs 655 crore NRI investment has also come into the State as Punjab Go Solar has witnessed immense response from NRIs with Punjabi investors from United States, United Kingdom and even Slovakia.

Earlier speaking on the occasion Mr. Tarun Kapur, Joint Secretary Union Ministry of Renewable Energy said it was commendable that while other States had facilitated solar energy generation with support from the centre, Punjab had achieved this distinction on its own. He also congratulated Punjab for the best performance.

                On this occasion Mr. Atul Punj from Punj Lloyd, Mr. Gaurav Sood, MD, Solairdirect, Mr. S.S. Chadha from Radha Soami Satsang Beas, Mr. Raj Kumar Roy, CEO Lanco, Mr. Preet Sandhu, Azure Power, Mr. T. R. Kishore Nayar, Wellspun and Mr. K.S.Popli, MD IREDA also shared their experiences of investing in Punjab. The investors said due to creation of an excellent team and system, they never had to approach the political bosses in Punjab. They also appreciated the Renewable ministry for facilitation quick installation of solar plants without any hiccups.

                Mr K S Popli, MD IREDA said his organization would support solar projects and was coming up with a scheme for elevated solar projects in which the land could be used for agriculture. Mr. Anirudh Tewari, Secretary New and Renewable Energy, outlines the initiatives and future plans for RE sector in the state. Later on Mr. Badal along with Mr. Majithia honoured 47 solar developers for setting up their ventures in the state.

                Prominent amongst others present on the occasion Mr. Sarvesh Kaushal, Chief Secretary, Punjab, Mr. Upkar Singh Sandhu, Chairman PEDA, Mr. K.D. Chaudhary, Chairman Powercom, Mr. Harcharan Bains, Advisor to Chief Minister and Mr. Jangveer Singh, Media Advisor to Deputy CM.  EOM

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ACTING CHIEF JUSTICE INAUGURATES 7 ICT PROJECTS

Chandigarh, July 23:

            Hon’ble Mr. Justice Shiavax Jal Vazifdar the Acting Chief Justice of Punjab and Haryana High Court inaugurated seven Information & communication Technology (ICT) enabled projects for convenience of litigants and Advocates in presence of other high court judges and other dignitaries.   

Hon’ble Mr. Justice Hemant Gupta, Chairman, Computer Committee had explained the functionalities of launched projects.  He said that The Punjab and Haryana High Court may be the only High Court in country which has scanned 22 lakh cases comprising 14 crore pages, 48 lakh interim and final orders. The orders are available on click of mouse. He said that In the process of digitalization of court record more than 206 tones (112 truck load) of waste paper have been weeded out resulting in availability of valuable space. Scanning of judicial record has streamlined issuance of copies, inspection of files, facilitated paperless court and record keeping resulting in decentralization of control and availability of judicial record at click of mouse without there being any actual file moment.

He further said that paperless courts and e-filing future of court proceedings have started. He said that soon Computers would be installed in court room for Advocates to provide e-files of cases fixed in court. He said that Since January, 2015 as many as 56,000 accused persons facing trial have been produced in the Subordinate Courts through video conferencing saving transportation expenses as well as reducing the security risks. With lesser movement of prisoners, the escort police officials are now available for law and order duties.

Justice Hemant Gupta said that Video Conferencing authentication server has been installed and has been made functional. He said that 55 screens have been installed outside each court room, replica of display boards installed in Court rooms, to facilitate the display of information of the cases in progress in court.

He said that 17 Touch screen information kiosk with complete information regarding case, cause list, copy and inspection status are now available to litigants and advocates for live information at different places within High Court. Litigants and advocates can enquire about live status of their case at any time in Court premises.

            The High Court judges who were present on the occasion included S.K. Mittal, S.S. Saron, Surya Kant, M. Jeyapaul, Rajesh Bindal, Gurmeet Singh Sandhawalia, Surinder Gupta, Lisa Gill and Sh. Ashok Aggarwal, Advocate General Punjab, Sh. Baldev Raj Mahajan, Advocate General Haryana, Sh. Harpreet Singh Brar, President, Punjab and Haryana High Court Bar Association, Sh. Sumit Jain, Secretary, Punjab and Haryana High Court Bar Association, Officers from Advocate General (Punjab & Haryana) and, Members of Executive Committee, Punjab and Haryana High Court Bar Association.

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 EXCISE COMMISSIONER ASKED TO CHECK ILLICIT TRADE OF TOBACCO

TOLD TO INTENSIFY RAIDS ON PUBS AND HUKKAH BARS-----VINI MAHAJAN

 Chandigarh July 23: The Punjab Health Department today asked Excise and Taxation department to become active partner in its fight against menace of tobacco in the state and launch a coordinated drive against illegal hookah bars and those establishments flouting anti-tobacco acts.

In a communiqué to the Financial Commissioner, Excise and Taxation, Principal Secretary Health Ms. Vini Mahajan asked him to issue instructions to field staff of excise and taxation department to ensure that the tobacco products manufactured and packaged must depict the notified pictorial health warning. She said that this way the illicit manufacture and trade of tobacco products could be checked to a large extent.

Ms Mahajan asked Financial Commissioner Excise and Taxation to take immediate action not less than cancelling the permits of all those illicit/contraband tobacco manufacturing companies selling their products without any pictorial health warnings which is mandatory under section 7 of Cigarettes and other tobacco products act (COTPA) 2003. Explaining further she said that being a part of the District Level Coordination Committee under Tobacco Control, officials of Excise and Taxation department above the rank of Inspectors are empowered to act under section 5 ( Prohibition of Tobacco Advt/Promotion/Sponsorship) and 7 of COTPA.

Besides this Ms Mahajan also suggested the Excise and Taxation department to appoint Nodal Officer Tobacco Control state and districts level who can coordinate with state Nodal Officer and District Nodal Officers of the Health department for any technical guidance and training. The necessary guidelines and instructions for punishing the offenders under various sections of Law have been sent to the departments across the state with a directive to check whole-sellers and retailers of tobacco products to rule out sale of illicit tobacco products. Quoting statistics, Ms Mahajan said that one in every 10 cigarettes and many other tobacco products consumed worldwide are illegal which was a major cause of concern.

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PUNJAB GOVERNMENT TO WORK CLOSELY WITH RBI TO FLUSH OUT UNSCRUPLOUS FINANCIAL COMPANIES

·        RBI to train field officials of the State for better implementation of RBI guidelines in the State.

Chandigarh, July 23:

In order to tighten the noose around the unscrupulous Non-Banking Financial Companies (NBFC) which are operational in the State and collecting money from the public under various lucrative schemes such as Collective Investment Schemes and Multi-Level Marketing Schemes with fraudulent intentions, the Punjab Government has intensified its action in coordination with RBI. In this direction a meeting of the High Powered State level coordination Committee on NBFC constituted under the chairmanship of Chief Secretary Punjab was held today. The Committee has been constituted mainly for the purpose of having a coordinated approach by all the regulating agencies to have a mechanism of preventive vigilance towards protection of interests of depositors in view of unauthorized entities accepting deposits from them.

 It was disclosed that RBI is minutely supervising the activities of the registered NBFCs and is cancelling the Registration Certificates of NBFCs where it finds that financial irregularities are committed. To safeguard the interest of citizens investing in various financial schemes, Punjab Government has already finalized the “Punjab Protection of Interests of Depositors Bill” after taking inputs from RBI, SEBI and other agencies.

Principal Secretary Finance informed that Reserve Bank of India is in the process of making clear guidelines for the State Government functionaries at the field level, keeping in view the provisions under various Acts so that State Government can prevent the financial frauds and save the public at large. It was decided during the meeting that RBI will sign a Memorandum of Understanding with Mahatama Gandhi State Institute of Public Administration for training of various field officials of the State Government on various provisions of RBI, SEBI and other relevant financial acts. This detailed training shall help the field officials in better implementation of RBI/SEBI and other financial guidelines and shall reduce the penetration of unscrupulous financial companies.

To provide better information to the citizens regarding unscrupulous financial companies, RBI will share the complete information of these unscrupulous financial with the State Government online. The RBI portal will be integrated with Punjab Government portal to provide updated information about these companies.

State has already notified Additional Deputy Commissioner (Development) of all the districts as Joint Director, Institutional Finance and Banking. All the ADCs have been directed to collect information on various Non-Banking Financial entities working in their jurisdiction. Chief Secretary stated that the information dissemination to the rural citizens should be actively done by RBI through SMS, Mobile/Voice calls, advertisements through radio and other conventional media etc. He further said an operating mechanism of complaints received regarding unauthorized acceptance of deposits by the companies will also be developed by the State Government in consultation with RBI.

Prominent amongst others who were present in the meeting included Mr. Jagpal Singh Sandhu, Additional Chief Secretary Home, Mr D P Reddy, Principal Secretary, Finance, Mr. Jaspal Singh, Secretary Expenditure, Ms. Rashmi Fauzdar, Regional Director RBI,  Ms. Kiran Sharma, General Manager, RBI, Dr. Sanjeev Sharma,Executive Director National Housing Bank, and senior officials from RBI,SEBI and State Government.

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R.N. GUPTA APPOINTED CHAIRMAN

·  TO CHAIR COMMITTEE FORMED TO CONSIDER GRANTING OF BENEFITS UNDER A.C.P. SCHEME

Chandigarh, July 23:

 The Punjab Government has appointed Mr. R.N. Gupta, I.A.S. (Retd.) as Chairman of the committee formed to consider granting of benefits to various categories under Assured Career Progression scheme.

 Stating this, an official spokesperson said that Mr. S.P. Gupta, Deputy Secretary Personnel has been inducted in the committee as Secretary while Mr. C.S. Talwar has been included in the committee as member in place of Mr. H.S. Rakhra.

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PUNJAB TO OBSERVE ‘CLEANLINESS DRIVE’ UNDER SWACHH BHARAT MISSION TILL 15TH AUGUST

Chandigarh, July 23:

 The Punjab Government has instructed all the Departments to continue the ‘Cleanliness Drive’ in their respective premises until 15th August, 2015.

 Disclosing this, an official spokesperson said that earlier the cleanliness drive under ‘Swachh Bharat Mission’ was observed from 22nd to 26th June, 2015 according to which the emphasis was laid on ensuring clean and hygienic environment in all the departments/Boards/Corporations. Now, as per the instructions of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, the cleanliness drive has been extended till 15th August.

 The spokesperson also informed that a detailed compliance report has also been sought in the matter.     

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 CM REFUTES ALLEGATIONS REGARDING PREFERENTIAL TREATMENT TO ANY CITY/CONSTITUENCY

SAD-BJP ALLIANCE GOVERNMENT COMMITTED TO ENSURE BALANCED GROWTH IN EVERY PART OF THE STATE WITHOUT ANY PREJUDICE

DESCRIBES NAVJOT KAUR SIDHU AS HER DAUGHTER

EVERY MLA GIVEN DUE RESPECT IN THE STATE

TERMS THAT HE WAS THE MOST ACCESSIBLE PERSON IN THE STATE

DO NOT HAVE ANY FAD FOR PASTING MY PICTURES ON THE AMBULANCES

PUNJAB IMMENSELY BENEFITTED FROM SHORT SPAN OF NDA’S RULE

SLAMS SUCCESSIVE CONGRESS CMs FOR IGNORING THE INTEREST OF STATE

SECOND DAY OF SANGAT DARSHAN IN JANDIALA GURU ASSEMBLY SEGMENT

Jandiala Guru (Amritsar), July 23-

Refuting the allegations regarding preferential treatment to any city/constituency of the state, the Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today said that the SAD-BJP alliance government was sincerely working to ensure overall development and growth in every nook and corner of the state without any prejudice or regional disparity.

Interacting with the media persons on the sidelines of Sangat darshan program in Jandiala Guru Assembly segment here today, the Chief Minister said that he had devoted his entire life to serve the state with the sole aim of ensuring its overall development and prosperity of its people. He said that it was wrong to categorize any city/town or constituency as VIP because their government was committed for development of entire state. Mr. Badal said that it was on record concerted efforts have made by the state government to ensure holistic development of the state. “Allegations regarding special treatment were totally baseless as we have already embarked a special scheme to ensure that every town of the state was equipped with state-of-the-art basic amenities to give facelift to the state”, he added.

The Chief Minister categorically said that the Chief Parliamentary Secretary Mrs. Navjot Kaur Sidhu was like his daughter and he would personally ensure the early resolution of all the issues raised by her. He said that the elected MLAs of the state irrespective of any party were important for him because he always hold these public representatives in high esteem. Mr. Badal said that he was the most accessible person in the state and every person could meet him with ease adding that the sole motive of holding Sangat Darshan in every corner of the state was to ensure that no person faces any problem in meeting him. 

Replying to another query, the Chief Minister said that the pictures pasted on Ambulances didn’t affect the delivery of quality health services to the people. Mr. Badal said that his picture was hardly any issue and the state government would take an appropriate call in this regard after due deliberations. “I hardly have any fad for pasting my pictures on the Ambulances but actually the Health department has pasted it”, he added. 

The Chief Minister further said that in a short span of NDA’s rule, Punjab has been immensely benefitted from it. He said that the Union government has given several key projects to the state, which would be instrumental in putting the state further on high growth trajectory. He hailed the NDA government for allocating prestigious projects like All India Institute of Medical Science (AIIMS), Indian Institute of Management (IIM) and Post Graduate Horticulture Research and Educational Institute.

Earlier addressing the gatherings during Sangat Darshan in village Meharbanpura and Bhaarad besides the Jandiala Guru city, the Chief Minister slammed the former Congress Chief Ministers for completely ignoring the interest of the state and its people. He said that it was a stark reality that most of the Congress Chief Ministers have spent their tenure of office in merriment rather than serving the people. Mr. Badal categorically said that none of the Congress Chief Ministers have ever bothered to visit the villages in the state due to which they were absolutely unaware about the woes faced by the populace living in these areas. On the other hand, he said that the SAD-BJP government has started a flagship program of Sangat Darshan to redress the grievances of the people in a time bound manner. Mr. Badal said it was a unique program that was being carried only in the state with the sole motive of ensuring the overall development of the state and welfare of its people.

The Chief Minister was accompanied by MLA Mr. Baljeet Singh Jalaal Usma, his Special Principal Secretary Mr. Ajoy Kumar Sharma, Deputy Commissioner Mr. Ravi Bhagat, Inspector General of Police Mr. Ishwar Chander, Deputy Inspector General of Police Mr. AK Mittal and Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Mr. Jasdeep Singh.

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 CM SEEKS ORAM’S INTERVENTION FOR INCLUSION OF VIMUKAT JATIS IN THE LIST OF SCHEDULE TRIBES

BEMOANS THAT NO ACTION HAS BEEN TAKEN BY GoI DESPITE OF STRENUOUS EFFORTS BY THE STATE GOVERNMENT

REITERATES UNION MINISTER TO TAKE A CALL ON THIS ISSUE AT THE EARLIEST

Chandigarh, July 23-

Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today sought the personal intervention of Union Minister for Tribal Affairs Mr. Jual Oram to accept the long pending demand of the state government to include the Vimukat Jatis in the list of Schedule Tribes.

In a letter to Mr. Oram, the Chief Minister said that the state government had written to the Union Government to declare the Vimukat Jatis including 33 sub-castes of the state as Schedule Tribes. He said that two books of ethnographic study done by the Punjabi University Patiala in this regard were sent as desired by the Tribal Affairs Ministry, Government of India (GoI) through a special messenger on February 28, 2001 and August 21, 2012 respectively. However, Mr. Badal bemoaned that till yet no decision has been taken so far regarding the inclusion of Vimukat Jatis in the list of Scheduled Tribes by the GoI.    

Urging the Union Minister to look into the matter and take the decision regarding inclusion of these castes in the list of Scheduled Tribes at the earliest, the Chief Minister said that it was urgently required for ensuring the welfare of the brethren belonging to these 33 sub-castes.

It may be recalled that a delegation of the Punjab State Vimukt Jatis Sangathan led by its President Dr. Tarsem Singh Maahla had recently called on the Chief Minister and impressed upon him to take up the matter of including these Jatis in the list of Schedule Tribes with the GoI. Mr. Badal had assured the visiting delegation that he would again take up the issue for including Vimukt Jaatis in the list of Schedule Tribes with the Union government as it was only within its domain to take a call on this issue. 

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8.7 PER CENT INTEREST RATE FIXED ON GPF AND CPF FOR 2015-16

 CHANDIGARH, JULY 23:

The Punjab Government has fixed 8.7 per cent interest rate on General Provident Fund (GPF) and Contributory Provident Fund (CPF) for the year 2015-16.

Disclosing this here, an official spokesperson of the Finance Department said that the employees could avail 8.7 per cent interest rate from 1.4.2015 on GPF & CPF and other funds credited by them.

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CENTRE APPROVES RS. 561.52 CRORE FOR PUNJAB STATE'S HEALTH PLAN 

Chandigarh, July 22:

                   Government of India has approved the Punjab's 'Programme Implementation Plan' under National Health Mission to the tune of Rs. 561.52 Crore An official communication in this regard has been received from Ministry of Health, GoI communicating the administrative approval against the ambitious plan submitted by the State. This was revealed here today by Punjab's Principal Secretary Health & FW, Ms. Vini Mahajan.

                   She disclosed that Rs.198.92 crore have been approved for implementing the free/ subsidized health care services to the community that includes free health care services for pregnant woman & infants, free treatment & medicines for girl-child upto 5 years age, free screening of Anganwadi & School children and Immunization. The services like tracking of all the pregnant women and children for service delivery will further be strengthened. These funds shall also facilitate in provding effective health care services with additional required human resources. Besides this Rs. 217.13 crore has been approved for providing free drugs & consumables, upgradation of infrastructure of health institutions including Civil Works and equipments, new Maternal & Child wings and functioning of the telemedicine centres. Under this programme incentives to ASHAs, AYUSH facilities at hospitals, services through Mobile Medical Units are also being provided.

                   Ms Vini Mahajan added that another area of focus would be to provide quality health care services for which emphasis will be laid on Quality Assurance, Sanitation, Swachh Bharat Abhyan. The health institutions that meet the desired quality standards will be awarded under Kayakalp Scheme. Special committees at State, District and Institutional Level have been constituted to review the quality of each and every institution.

                   Under National Urban Health Mission the focus will be on strengthening the health care infrastructure in the selected urban cities and providing the health care services through outreach camps. Under this programme additional 600 ANMs, staff at 93 urban PHCs have already been provided. Special outreach camps are being organized to serve in the slum and other poor population dominated areas. Mahila Arogya Samitis will be operationalized under NUHM. Funds Rs. 41.43 Crore have been approved for National Urban Health Mission.

                   Under the Non-Communicable Disease Control Programme special programme for Health Care of Elderly and Programme for Prevention & Control of Deafness will be initiated. Rs. 7.71 Crore have been approved for these programmes including National Programme for Control of Blindness. To control the communicable diseases especially Tuberculosis, Malaria, Dengue Rs. 28.81 Core have been earmarked.

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CM ASKS OPPOSITION NOT TO MISCONSTRUE THE PROTEST BY A FEW INDIVIDUALS ABROAD AS A ‘REFERENDUM’ AGAINST THE STATE GOVERNMENT

·        OPPOSITION NOT TO NURTURE ANY DOUBT IN THEIR MINDS AS PUNJABIS WERE SOLIDLY BEHIND ALLIANCE GOVERNMENT

·        DESCRIBE PROTESTS BY NRIs AS AN ORCHESTRATED  ACT BY  FEW  POLITICALLY MOTIVATED PERSONS

·        TERMS CAPTAIN’s ALLEGATIONS AS BASELESS AND FAR FROM TRUTH

·        HEY DAYS FOR THE FARMERS IN OFFERING AS NDA COMMITTED FOR REMUNERATIVE PRICES OF THEIR PRODUCE AND CROP INSURANCE

·        SANGAT DARSHAN IN JANDIALA GURU ASSEMBLY SEGMENT

Wadala Johal (Amritsar), July 22-

          Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today asked the opposition not to misjudge the protest by a handful of persons abroad as a ‘referendum’ against the pro-people and development oriented policies of the state government.

          Interacting with the media persons on the sidelines of Sangat Darshan program in the Jandiala Guru assembly segment here today, the Chief Minister said that it was surprising that in the dearth of any issue against the state government the entire opposition was ecstatic over the protest made by a few individuals abroad and were wrongly projecting it as mandate against the alliance government. He said that the protest was not in any way a verdict of the Punjabi Diaspora against the state government as only a few people were a part of this protest. Mr. Badal cautioned the opposition that it should not nurture any doubt in their minds as the Punjabis were reposing full faith and confidence in the pro-people and development oriented policies of the state government.

The Chief Minister further said that in fact such incidents had rarely taken place in the state, where the SAD-BJP alliance government was in power for two consecutive terms, reflects that people were satisfied with their functioning. He said that the sole reason for it was that the alliance government had taken care of the interests of each and every section of the society during its rule. Ridiculing the state for the vested interests by opposition is highly deplorable as it is deliberately trying to paint dismal picture of Punjab for scoring brownie points before media by blowing this issue out of proportion as if the entire Canada or USA has turned against the state government whereas in reality, it is an orchestrated protest lodged by few politically motivated individuals, added Mr. Badal.

Replying to another query, the Chief Minister said that former Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh was habitual of misleading the people by leveling false allegations against him and his family. He said that the allegations of Lok Sabha MP against him and the state government were baseless and were far away from truth. Mr. Badal said that Captain had been vociferously leveling such allegations ever since the formation of Congress government way back in 2002 but not even a single of them had been proved true. “ As the Chief Minister of the state Captain Amarinder Singh had misused the entire government machinery against me and my family to prove these charges but all his allegations fell flat and we were acquitted by court” he added.

On another query, the Chief Minister said that the hard working and resilient farmers of the state were reeling under whopping debt due to the anti-farmers stance of the previous Congress governments at the centre. However, he said that the formation of the NDA government at centre was a silver lining for the beleaguered peasantry as this government was making whole hearted efforts towards ensuring remunerative prices of crops and provide crop insurance to the farmers. “Hey days for the farmers are in offering as NDA will certainly take a call to resolve these issues on priority” added Mr. Badal.

Earlier addressing the gatherings during Sangat Darshan in village Rasulpur Kalan, Dashmesh Nagar (Jogi Peer), Wadala Johal, Wadali Dogra, Devidasspur and others, the Chief Minister while highlighting the significance of the Sangat Darshan program said that this flagship program of the SAD-BJP alliance government was very helpful in the on the spot redressal of the problems faced by the people. He said that this program virtually brings the government at the doorsteps of the people, who were then able to get their problems solved. “It is a unique initiative which hardly finds any parallel in the country” added Mr. Badal.

The Chief Minister was accompanied by MLA Mr. Baljeet Singh Jalaal Usma, his Special Principal Secretary Mr. Ajoy Kumar Sharma, Deputy Commissioner Mr. Ravi Bhagat, Deputy Inspector General of Police Mr. AK Mittal and Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Mr. Jasdeep Singh.   

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 Solar summit would be a booster for Punjab economy-Sukhbir Singh Badal

Calls farmers to become entrepreneurs under Net Metering policy

Terms Congress and AAP as spent forces

After diesel, VAT on petrol would also be made uniform in northern states

Initiates development projects of Rs. 50.39 crore

Kolianwali ( Sri Mukatsar Sahib ) July 22

                Punjab Deputy Chief Minister Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal today said that the Solar summit at Chandigarh would give a new boost to the economy of Punjab as the state has emerged as the most preferred destination for investment in Non conventional energy sector.

                Interacting with media here at village Kolianwali after laying the foundation stones of various development projects and three irrigation projects in Lambi constituency the Deputy Chief Minister said that the Punjab has received more than Rs. 4000 crore investment for 500 MW solar projects which mainly includes investment by major foreign players from Singapore, USA and France. He said that tomorrow’s Solar summit would further showcase the possibilities in Renewable energy sector in Punjab as the state fully suitable for these projects due to the availability of sun shine for 300 days in a year.

                He also called the farmers to come forward to be a partner under the incentive oriented Net Metering policy as it was especially designed for keeping in view the farmers interests .He said that keen interest of state farmers in solar power could be gauged from the fact that PEDA has recently got Expressions of Interest for 1200 MW against the initial estimates of 500 MW. He said that the state farmers were now getting remunerative lease rates besides high rates even for non-fertile lands.

                Mr. Badal said that initiatives of Punjab in this sector has been noticed at National level as  Prime Minister has awarded Punjab as best performing state on RE front during REINVEST-2015 held in New Delhi and few days ago Renewable Energy Promotion Association (REPA) has awarded Punjab as the Best Bio-energy State of India with highest installed capacity .

Mr. Badal has also said the Punjab Government has sanctioned Rs. 10,000 crore for basic amenities projects in 150 small towns and villages, out of which Rs. 4000 crore would be spent on 100 % water supply, concrete streets in villages.

Terming Congress and AAP as spent forces in Punjab Mr. Badal said that Captain Amarinder Singh and Mr. Partap Singh Bajwa were busy in power struggle to capture the presidency of PPCC and they never bothered to raise their voice for issues pertaining to Punjab. On the other hand the real ”anti poor face” of AAP was exposed from the fact that Mr. Arvind Kejriwal has set aside more than Rs. 500 crore for publicity on states exchequer against the meager 10 crore publicity  budget of Punjab Government.

Questioning the credentials of Mr. Partap Singh Bajwa for supporting the anti Punjab elements in Canada and USA, Mr. Badal has dared Bajwa to clear the air that he was in favour of them or against them? He said that SAD delegation has received historic response abroad and the people opposing them were the anti national elements.

On the issue of uniform VAT on Diesel in northern states, Mr. Badal said that it was aimed to eliminate the smuggling of oil from one state to other and this decision was taken unanimously by northern states. He also disclosed that VAT on petrol would brought to the same level in coming days as the dialogue in this regard is going on.

Earlier addressing the audience at Village FulluKhera, Mr. Badal said that the Punjab Government would launch “Health Card” for poor people which would enable them for free treatment up to Rs. 30,000.           

The villages where concrete streets would be constructed includes kolianwali , Mahni Khera , Bhai ka Khera , Khami Khera , Fullu Khera , Arani wala , Kangan Khera , Dabwali dhab , Gurusar Jodha , Pakki tibbi , Katianwali , Karampatti , Mohlan , Raniwala , Midda , Alam wala and sarawan badlan with the cost of Rs. 50.39 crore . The Deputy Chief Minister has also announced the district unit of Shiromani Akali Dal Sri Mukatsar sahib.

Prominent amongst present on the occasion included  Dyal Singh Kolianwali, Chairman Punjab Agro, Chairman Tajinder Singh Midukhera, DC Jaskiran Singh, SSP Kuldeep Singh Chahal, Avtar Singh  Banawala, Chairman Kulwinder Singh  Bhai ka Khera, Veerpal Kaur Tarmala, Parminder Singh Koliawali etc.  

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BADAL MOURNS PASSING AWAY OF ADDITIONAL ADVOCATE GENERAL JASKIRAT SINGH SIDHU

Chandigarh, July 22: Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today expressed profound grief and sorrow over the sad demise of Additional Advocate General, Punjab Mr. Jaskirat Singh Sidhu (49), who breathed his last owing to massive cardiac arrest here in General Hospital, Sector-16 this morning.

In his condolence message, the Chief Minister described Mr. Jaskirat Singh Sidhu as a ‘competent law officer, able administrator and a noted jurist’ who ever discharged his duties with utmost dedication, sincerity and commitment. Besides, he was a fine human being with the rare qualities of head and heart. He recalled the remarkable services rendered by Mr. Sidhu during his stint as an Additional Advocate General for defending the state in several cases through his professional skills and legal acumen. In his death, a void has been created in the legal fraternity which was difficult to be filled, added Mr. Badal.

Sharing his heartfelt sympathies with the bereaved family, Mr. Badal prayed to the Almighty to give strength to the family members, relatives and friends to bear this huge loss in this hour of grief and grant eternal peace to the departed soul. 

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·        EDUCATION DEPARTMENT TO INCLUDE ROAD SAFETY MATTER IN THE 6TH AND 10TH CLASS SYLLABUS

 ·        TRANSPORT AND POLICE DEPARTMENT TO TAKE STRICT ACTION AGAINST LIQUOR DRUNK DRIVERS

 ·        TRANSPORT DEPARTMENT TO REMOVE PRESSURE HORNS FROM PRIVATE AND GOVERNMENT BUSES

 CHANDIGARH, JULY 22:

The Transport Minister, Punjab, Ajit Singh Kohar, today presided over a high level Punjab State Road Safety Council meeting. Discussing the ways and means to reduce the ‘Road Accidental Deaths’ in the state the Minister said that the reducing the increasing deaths due to road accidents was the call of the hour.

 The Minister said that the council has  decided that the PWD department should construct roads/ repair the old ones under the Work Zone Traffic Zone Management Plans IRC:SP:54-2014. The highways and link roads where a new road is laid out or a repair is being carried out, that portion is closed for traffic which is diverted to another lane haphazardly thereby causing mishaps.

The Minister further said that council  has also discussed the cyclists' security issue with Bureau of Indian Standard (B.I.S.)  in which change of cycle black colour was discussed so that they could be identified at night on the road. Reflector Taps should be compulsory on the cycles also.

 Mr. Kohar said that it was also decided torun a campaign in accordance with which, the parents and school managements must be made to understand the hazards of overloading of school buses. He said that if any bus transports children more than its capacity then the police/transport department must be informed. Strict instructions were issued to police and transport department to act severly against the persons driving under the influence of alcohol.

 Besides this, directions were issued to seek compliance report from the PWD (B & R) regarding laying rumble strip on the link roads connecting with main roads.

In the matter of removing black spots from the roads, the Punjab Roads and Bridges Development Board informed that the their department has identified and removed 140 black spots. It was Directions were given to the Education Department for the inclusion of the Road Safety matter in 6th and 10th class syllabus.

 During the meeting, it was also decided to seek Chief Engineer , Local Bodies and Chief Engineer, PWD and instructions concerning this were issued to Transport Department.

Informing further the Minister said that the council has also directed the Police and Transport Department to remove the Pressure Horns from Government/Private Buses otherwise the concerned vehicle owner would be challaned. It was also decided to take action against the driver under motor vehicle act rules framed under it. He also directed the concerned district administration to check the overloaded tractor trollies which causes the accidents. 

 The Meeting was also attended by the representatives of the various departments.

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BEE-KEEPING PROVES TO BE A WINDFALL FOR THE FARMERS

Chandigarh, July 22: 

 Bee-keeping has proved to be a windfall for the farmers of the State who are cultivating rich profits from this business. It has fascinated the farmers across the State and the farmers passionately have adopted this venture giving further impetus to the crop diversification initiatives of the Punjab Government.

          The Spokesperson said that even the farmers, who possess land in smaller numbers, can also start the profitable business of bee keeping. He said that during the previous years, there was lack of marketing services in Punjab, due to lack of which farmers had suffered economic losses whereas now there are various companies in State, those are eager to buy agricultural products.

           He further said that Chief Minister Parkash Singh Badal laid the foundation stone of Markfed Honey Processing Plant in Jalandhar , which has capacity of 3000 MT.  He said that this honey processing plant will enhance the production of honey and provide major benefits as gigantic market to the beekeepers of State.

            He said that in order to encourage the farmers, 40 percent subsidy has been provided by the horticulture department for the bee keeping and beneficiary gets a subsidy of Rs.80000 for purchasing of 50 boxes at a rate of Rs.1600 per box. Adding more he said that Horticulture Department also gives subsidy on the kit required in bee-keeping. He said that farmer would earn Rs.1000-1500 per box on selling honey and on selling box they also earn Rs.2500-3700.

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PUNJAB SUGGESTS UNION GOVERNMENT TO INSTITUTE AWARDS TO BOOST LIVESTOCK SECTOR

-  'PASHU DHAN AWARD' OR 'KAMDHENU AWARD' TO BE INTRODUCED

Chandigarh, July 22:

            The Punjab Government has pleaded Union Government to institute awards to motivate livestock farmers and stimulate new era growth and excellence in this area.

            Mr. Gulzar Singh Ranike, Animal Husbandry Minister in a communiqué to Union Agriculture Minister Mr. Radha Mohan Singh brought his attention to the fact that despite a major stratum of farming community opting for livestock sector as a part of diversification of agriculture sector, there was hardly any incentive from Union Government to motivate them to work for excellence and focus on growth in this sector.

            He said that there is no need to emphasize the fact that Livestock sector plays very important role in the upliftment of rural economy through Dairy, Poultry, Piggery, Goatry and Fisheries etc. He said that in the present scenario, growth rate in agriculture sector was almost stagnant and livestock rearing activities have emerged as viable propositions for the diversification of traditional agriculture farming and the farmers were adopting livestock ventures on commercial lines.

            He pointed out that Government of India offers awards to various states in different fields like best state award in renewable energy, krishi karman award in food grain productivity in agriculture and in other fields for their outstanding achievements. He regretted that However, livestock sector is not considered adequately. Mr. Ranike requested to Union Agriculture Minister that livestock sector should also be considered for the award by Government of India.

            He said that livestock sector is now economically in a better position than agriculture. He said that diversification in agriculture is a need of hour and livestock is expected to emerge as the engine of agricultural growth in the coming year. Moreover demand for animal food products is on increase.

            Mr. Ranike wrote that India's livestock wealth is still the largest in the world and India is the largest producer of milk. He said that today, the livestock sector contributes 28% of the agriculture GDP and about 5% of the country GDP. The value of output from livestock sector is much higher than the output of paddy and wheat. It is 2.5 times in respect of paddy and more than thrice the value of wheat as per the central statistical office data. India is the second largest producer of fish. Livestock, poultry and related sector also employs 8% of the country labour force. The future of livestock is an emerging enterprise and needs sense of competition among different states.

            The Minister said that to increase productivity and visibility of livestock sector, it need that competitive spirit is infused in animal husbandry sector by introducing certain awards like 'Pashu Dhan Award' or 'Kamdhenu Award'. He requested that awards are not clubbed with agriculture, where these sector activities are being diluted out.

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PUNJAB MANDATES ALL ESTABLISHMENTS TO PAY ITS WORKERS THROUGH CHEQUE’S OR ONLINE

STEP TAKEN TO CHECK THE UNDERPAYMENT OF WORKERS

LABOUR DEPARTMENT ISSUES NOTIFICATION

Chandigarh, July 22:

The Punjab Government today took a path breaking step directing  all factories and commercial establishments and shops to pay wages to their workers either by cheque or transfer the wages directly or online in the bank account of workers.

According to an official spokesman the Labour Department today issued a notification that in all the Factories registered under the Factories Act, 1948 and all Shops and Commercial Establishments registered under the Punjab Shops and Commercial Establishment Act, 1958 the employers would pay wages to the workers either by cheque or by crediting the wages in their bank account. The spokesman said that it is a step taken in the direction of ensuring transparent labour relations besides checking exploitation and underpayment of workers.

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HARVINDER SINGH DESIGNATED BUDGET OFFICER

Chandigarh, July 22:

The Punjab Government has designated Harvinder Singh, Superintendent Finance Budget-2, as Budget Officer on temporary basis without any additional financial benefits.

Stating this, an official spokesperson said that the Deputy Secretary, Personnel, Satyaparakash Gupta has been relieved of the additional charge of Budget Officer.

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DDOs INSTRUCTED TO SEND DETAILED CONTINGENT   BILLS THROUGH IFMS

• BILLS TO BE SENT TO CONCERNED TREASURY OFFICER

Chandigarh, July 22:

The Punjab Government has instructed all the Departmental Heads, Divisional Commissioners, Deputy Commissioners to issue directions to the DDOs serving under them to prepare all Detailed Contingent (DC) bills for Actual Contingent (AC) bills through IFMS mode only.

Disclosing this, an official spokesperson said that the Accountant General, Punjab has brought to the notice of Finance Department that the departments are not preparing all DC bills through IFMS and neither are the bills sent to concerned Treasury Officer through online mode and the Departments withdraw next AC bills before depositing previous DC bills .

The spokesperson further said that now the DDOs have been instructed to ensure that DC bills prepared through IFMS are sent to concerned Treasury Officer through online mode and a copy of each DC bill is dispatched to the office of Accountant General (A & E).       

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STAGE ALL SET FOR INAUGURATION OF WORLD’S FIRST INSTITUTION OF ITS KIND ‘MAI BHAGO ARMED FORCES PREPARATORY INSTITUTE’

CM FINALIZES ARRANGEMENTS FOR THIS MEGA EVENT SCHEDULE TO TAKE PLACE ON JULY 25

GIRLS TO BE IMPARTED TRAINING TO JOIN ARMED FORCES AS OFFICERS

UNION DEFENCE MINISTER TO DEDICATE THIS PREMIER INSTITUTE TO THE NATION

OFFICERS FROM THE TOP BRASS OF THE ARMED FORCES AND DECORATED ARMY PERSONNEL TO ATTEND THIS EVENT

 Chandigarh, July 21:

 Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today finalized the arrangements for the inauguration of world’s first institution of its kind ‘Mai Bhago Armed Forces Preparatory Institute’, on the lines of Maharaja Ranjit Singh Armed Forces Preparatory Institute, to impart specialized training exclusively to the female aspirants across the state to join Armed forces as officers. 

 Giving final touches to the arrangements for this mega event to be presided over by the Union Defence Minister Mr. Manohar Parikkar, who would dedicate this premier institute to the nation on July 25th, the Chief Minister was apprised by the senior officers that nearly 1500 ex-servicemen from PESCO, 1000 girl NCC cadets, 200 students from the Sainik School Kapurthala, 350 trainees from C-PYTE besides the officers from the top brass of the Armed Forces and decorated Army personnel have already confirmed their participation in the function.

 Meanwhile, the Chief Minister asked the Punjab Ex-Servicemen Corporation (PESCO) and the Directorate of Sainik Welfare to elicit the participation of ex-Servicemen and the retired defence personnel in this mega event. Mr. Badal said it would be a red letter day in the history of Indian Armed Forces in General and for the state in particular when this state of the art institute to train our daughters for joining defence services as their promising career would be inaugurated. Exuding confidence that he has taken this novel initiative to establish this prestigious institute after the superb success of Maharaja Ranjit Singh Armed Forces Preparatory Institute at Mohali for the boys, Mr. Badal said that these institutes were his dream projects to restore the pristine glory of gallantry services rendered by the Punjabis in the armed forces, which had gradually faded away with the passage of time.

 Prominent amongst others who were present on the occasion included Cabinet Ministers Mr. Madan Mohan Mittal and Dr. Daljit Singh Cheema, former Minister Mrs. Satwant Kaur Sandhu, former MLAs Mr. Didar Singh Bhattiand Jathedar Ujagar Singh Badali, District Akali Dal President Mr. Jagdeep Singh Cheema, Special Principal Secretary to Chief Minister Mr. KJS Cheema, Director Information & Public Relations Mr. Rahul Tewari, Director Defence Service Welfare Brigadier JS Arora, Director General C-PYTE Major General (Retd.) Rajesh Kumar Bawa, Director Cultural Affairs Mr. Navjot Randhawa, Deputy Commissioner Ropar Ms. Tanu Kashyap, Deputy Commissioner Fatehgarh Sahib Mr. Sangha, Deputy Commissioner SAS Nagar Mr. TPS Sidhu, IG Patiala Range Mr. Paramjeet Singh Gill, SSP SAS Nagar Mr. Gurpreet Singh Bhullar and Chairman-cum-Managing Director PESCO Lieutenant General Kuldeep Singh.

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ANIL JOSHI WARNS MEDICAL/DENTAL COLLEGES OF CAUSING INCONVENIENCE TO STUDENTS

·       DIRECTS ONLINE TRANSFER OF STIPENDS TO MEDICAL STUDENTS TO CHECK EXPLOITATION BY INSTITUTES

CHANDIGARH, JULY 21:

After reports of inconvenience caused by some medical/dental colleges to their students by deliberately delaying the clinic work and thesis of PG students as a result of which they are forced to spend extra time/money, Mr. Anil Joshi Medical Education Minister has taken strong note of these reports and has directed to be made mandatory for the Guides of Post Graduate students to get the clinical work and thesis of students completed in a time bound manner as per schedule. He warned that in case of failure, the government would debar the Guide from taking up new assignments as a guide till all the previous assignments are complete.

The Minister further said that as per the guidelines of the Government of India, Medical Counsel of India and Dental Counsel of India, it is mandatory for the medical/dental & paramedical colleges to pay stipend to Post Graduate students for the duration of course of study. He said that fee structure if such courses are fixed keeping this aspect in mind that the colleges are to pay stipend to Post graduate students. He said that it has come to his notice that some of colleges are showing the kind of payments having made in cash to the students by securing the signatures of the students on payment vouchers without making payment to them. This issue needs to examined and suitably amended in order to ensure that such a stipend actually received by the students. He asked the department to explore the possibility of online transfer of stipend in the accounts of students.

He said that the payments of such stipend by way of cheque/draft/NEFT may be made mandatory and the managements of such colleges would have to a declaration to the effect with the Baba Farid University of Health Sciences and the State government.

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CHEEMA DIRECTS TO IMPROVE, STRENGTHEN SPORTS INFRASTRUCTURE IN PRIMARY SCHOOLS

·       MAKES VIDEOGRAPHY MANDATORY DURING SELECTIONS OF TEAMS FOR STATE AS WELL AS NATIONAL GAMES

·       FORMS COMMITTEE UNDER PRINCIPAL SECRETARY EDUCATION TO ENSURE UNIFORM SYLLABUS FOR SPORTS, CO-CURRICULAR EDUCATIONAL ACTIVITIES

CHANDIGARH, JULY 21:

Punjab Education Minister Dr. Daljit Singh Cheema today directed high-ups of education department to come out with ultra modern sports infrastructure in Primary Schools too so that budding players could excel in their respective sports in coming time besides giving a boost to sports culture in the state.

While finalizing the Sports Blueprint for the upcoming academic session 2015-16 during a state level meeting of Punjab School Physical Education Development Fund Committee, Dr. Cheema motivated physical education department in different educational institutes to extend special emphasis to uplift the standard of sports in Primary Schools since it was dire need to encourage our budding generations towards sports.

The Minister said that creation of congenial and friendly sports environment in these schools could provide us world’s best sports stars in future. He also asked to launch special fitness activities for these students with a focus to make them excellent in sports in coming time. Issuing on the spot orders to immediate provide needful sports material for games including Athletics, Badminton, Kho-Kho, Skipping Ropes, Football etc, Education Minister said that this exercise of giving a big push to sports culture at lower level will prove a boon for budding players.

Emphasising the need to bring more transparency during selection of players for state as well as National games, Dr. Cheema directed to make videography mandatory at the time of trials. He also said that at the time of selection for national games, an eminent sports icon of that particular sport should also be there as an expert, besides appointing a supervisor from headquarter. The Minister also gave a clear cut message that no negligence and laxity during the process of selection of players would be tolerated.

The Minister also formed a high level committee under Principal Secretary Mr. C. Roul to ensure the uniform implementation of sports, physical education and co-curricular activities in ongoing 2015-16 academic session. Mr. Cheema also assured the meeting that there would be no paucity of sports kits, diets and coaching staff.

Principal Secretary Mr. C. Roul, DGSE Mr. Pardeep Aggarwal, DPI (Secondary Education) Mr. Balbir Singh Dhol, DPI (Elementary Education) Mr. Harbans Singh Sandhu, Deputy Director (Sports) Mr. Sarbjit Singh Toor, State Organiser of Sports Wing Mr. Raghbir Singh were also present in the meeting.

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CM NOMINATES CHAIRMAN, VICE CHAIRMAN AND MEMBERS OF MEHTA MARKET COMMITTEE

Chandigarh, July 21-

The Punjab Government today nominated the new Chairman, Vice Chairman and members of Mehta Market committee in Amritsar district.

Disclosing this here today a spokesperson of the Chief Minister’s Office, said that Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal cleared the file to this effect, this morning and the formal orders regarding the nomination of the Chairman, Vice Chairman and members of market Committee Mehtawould be issued shortly. 

As per the orders, Mr. Gurmeet Singh and Mr. Sarbjit Singh have been nominated as the Chairman and Vice Chairman of Market Committee Mehta whereas Mr. Gurpal Singh, Mr. Darshan Singh, Mr. Gurmukh Singh, Mrs. Ramandeep Kaur, Mrs. Lispat, Mr. Surinder Singh, Mr. Jasbir Singh, Mr. Ravinder Sharma and Mr. Nishan Singh besides the concerned BDPO have been nominated the members of the committee.

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MAJOR RELIEF TO THE DISTRESSED FAMILIES OF THE FARMERS COMMITTING SUICIDE IN THE STATE

·        CM OKAYS NOD FOR CREATING A ‘REVOLVING FUND FOR RELIEF’ TO GIVE MONETARY ASSISTANCE TO SUCH FAMILIES

·        HAPLESS FAMILIES TO GET ONE TIME MONETARY ASSISTANCE OF RS 3 LAKH

·        COMMITTEE UNDER DC WITH CAO AS CONVENER TO SCRUTINIZE APPLICATIONS FOR DISBURSEMENT OF RELIEF

Chandigarh, July 21-

          In a major relief to the distressed families of the farmers committing suicide in the state, the Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today approved a policy for creating a ‘Revolving Fund’ for relief to be given as one time monetary assistance of Rs 3 lakh to the next of the kin of such farmers.

          Disclosing this here today a spokesperson of the Chief Minister’s Office said that the move was aimed at mitigating the sense of economic insecurity amongst the family besides enabling them to tide over the financial distress due to the death of the sole bread winner of the family. This ‘Revolving Fund for Relief’ to the suicide affected families would be created with the state Revenue Department to ensure timely relief to the affected families.

As per this policy 25% of the relief amount would be paid to the mother and balance to the wife of the deceased. However, in case mother was not alive then full relief would be paid to the wife. The spokesperson further said that if the wife of the deceased remarries outside the family or if she was not alive then the amount would be paid to the children and in case the deceased was unmarried or had no children then it would be paid to the parents in case they were dependent on the deceased.

Likewise, a committee would be constituted to receive and verify documents to disburse the assistance with the Deputy Commissioner of the district as Chairman and Chief Medical Officer, Senior Superintendent of Police and Sarpanch of victim’s village as Members and Chief Agricultural Officer (CAO) as the Member Convener. The Committee would decide the matter within a period of one month from the date of receipt of complete application. The application for availing the financial assistance must be submitted within a period of three months from the date of suicide to the CAO or the concerned Sub Divisional Magistrate. “All such applications whenever received must be forwarded to the CAO, who will process these for the consideration of the above committee” added the spokesperson.  

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Farmers to get 80,000 tube well connections-Sukhbir Badal

(PSPCL asked to gear up to issue power connections)

(Punjab to start recruitment drive to fill 1 lakh posts)

(Lays foundation stones of Rs. 99 crore development projects in Lambi constituency)

Roranwali (Sri Mukatsar Sahib), July 21 – Punjab Deputy Chief Minister Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal today announced that Punjab Government would immediately start distribution of more than 80,000 tubewell connections to the farmers as the National Green Tribunal (NGT) has vacated the stay on its allotment which was come to force one and half year ago.

Talking to media persons after laying foundation stone to construct the concrete streets at village Ratta Khera on Tuesday the Deputy Chief Minister hailed the decision of NGT and said it would work as a booster to the farming community which was desperate to get power connections for irrigation purposes after the Punjab has become the first power surplus state in the nation.

Mr. Badal informed that directions in this regard have been issued to officials of PSPCL to immediately gear up the process to issue the demand notices to the applicants besides ensuring the adequate supply of transformers and wires etc. The whole process would be completed within 6 months, he added.

Announcing to recruit one lakh employees in different departments from September Deputy Chief Minister said the Punjab Government had instructed all the heads of Departments, Boards and Corporations to submit details of existing vacancies till August.

Talking about the connectivity of all major cities of the state with  4/6 lanes, Mr. Badal said the tendering process was under progress and work in this regard would be initiated in next two months. He said that after achieving the power surplus status, the next target was fixed to connect all major cities with 4/6 lanes at a cost of of Rs. 20,000 crore in next 2 years.  These projects mainly includes 4/6 laning of Ludhiana-Chandigarh, Jalandhar-Chandigarh, Jalandhar-Moga and Amritsar-Bathinda.

Earlier addressing the gathering at village Bhaghu Mr. Badal said only the SAD-BJP government had launched the pro-people social security schemes like free electricity to the farming sector, shagun scheme, Atta dal, free education to girls and scholarships to meritorious students and old age pensions under the leadership of Chief Minister Mr Parkash Singh Badal, who always gives special attention to the issues pertaining to rural population.

The Deputy Chief Minister has laid down foundation stones of various development projects worth Rs. 99 crore to construct concrete streets in villages Badal, Mann, Channu, Bhaghu, Baanwala, Sikhanwala, Roranwali, Tarmala, Dhani Telian , Bhullarwala, Fatta Kherra, Middu Khera, Lohara, Kilianwali, Singhewala, Mithri Budhgarh and Gaggarh.

Prominent among those present on the occasion included Dyal Singh Koliawali Chairman Punjab Agro, Tajinder Singh Middukhera Chairman, Jaskiran Singh Deputy Commissioner, Satinderjit Singh Manta Halqa incharge, Rakesh Dhingra district president BJP, Virpal Kaur Mahla, Avtar Singh Banawala.  

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ATWAL NOMINATES RAKESH PANDEY AND JOGINDER SINGH PANJGARAIN AS MEMBER OF HOUSE COMMITTEE

CHANDIGARH, JULY 21:

        Speaker, Punjab Vidhan Sabha Dr. Charanjit Singh Atwal has nominated Mr. Rakesh Pandey, and Mr. Joginder Singh Panjgarain (both MLAs) as a Member of the House Committee for the year 2015-16.

        Disclosing this here today a spokesman of the Punjab Vidhan Sabha said that they have been nominated in place of Smt. Rajinder Kaur Bhattal and Mr. Ramanjit Singh Sikki (both MLAs) who had resigned from the Membership of the House Committee on July 16, 2015.

        The Spokesman further said that a notification has already been issued in this regard.

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GOVERNMENT INVITES APPLICATIONS FOR SUBSIDY ON PADDY STRAW CHOPPER/SHREDDER-CUM-SPREADER

 Chandigarh, July 21: 

  The Punjab Government has invited applications from the farmers to avail subsidy on purchase of Paddy Straw chopper/Shredder-cum-Spreader on or before August 10th, 2015.

Disclosing this here today an official spokesperson of the Punjab Government said that subsidy to the tune of 50 percent or 1 lac whichever less would be provided on this implement. He said that interested farmers could avail this opportunity by filing application in a fixed format along with non-refundable demand draft of Rs 5000 in the favour of Punjab State Farmers Commission.

He said that farmers can download application format, list of approved companies and scheme details from website www.agripb.gov.in. He further added that application should be sent to Chief Agricultural officer of the concerned district on or before August 10th,2015.

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PUNJAB TO APPROACH MP HIGH COURT SEEKING BAN ON POPPY CULTIVATION, SUKHBIR BADAL
- DEPUTY CM DARES CAPTAIN AMARINDER TO COUNT SINGLE ACHIEVEMENT
- AAP'S BALLOON HAS BURST
- GAUSHALAS TO BE CONSTRUCTED IN EACH DISTRICT
- INAUGURATES AKAL UNIVERSITY AT TALWANDI SABO

 Talwandi Sabo (Bathinda), July 17:

In a bid to eliminate inter-state smuggling of psychotropic substances, Punjab Deputy Chief Minister Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal today said that Punjab Government was contemplating to file a Public Interest Litigation in Madhya Pradesh High Court seeking ban on opium and poppy cultivation in the state.

Interacting with media persons after inaugurating Akal University here
Mr. Badal said that the decision of Rajasthan High Court placing
embargo on poppy cultivation was commendable and now Punjab Government was considering to move to Madhya Pradesh High Court for stopping cultivation of poppy husk and opium. He said that there should not be two laws in the country against cultivation of poppy since in some
states the cultivation was legal, while it was illegal in others. He said
that there should be uniformity in this regard in the entire country
and Punjab is strongly advocating ban on such bitter harvest.

Mr. Badal said that Punjab was not producing synthetic drugs but instead it was fighting nation's war against drugs. He added that some anti state forces, with vested political gains, were trying to defame Punjab and brave Punjabis by dubbing them as addicts.

While talking about unprecedented holistic development in the state,
Mr. Badal said that the SAD-BJP government has fulfilled 99 percent
promises made to the electorates. He said that Punjab was very forward
as compare to other states in all round and uniform development of both rural and urban areas. He said that people should commend such landmark progress and growth registered by SAD-BJP government.

Ridiculing the false propaganda being launched by opposition Mr. Badal
dared Congress leader Captain Amarinder Singh to list a single achievement attained during his tenure. He said that the sole aim of Captain Amarinder’s rallies in marriage palaces was against PPCC President Mr. Partap Singh Bajwa to dethrone him by capturing the leadership of state Congress.

On being asked about the rift between Aam Aadmi Party leadership in
Punjab, Mr. Badal said that the balloon of AAP has completely burst as
the real face of it has been exposed in Delhi. He said that there was
no democracy in AAP since Mr. Arvind Kejriwal was running his party
like a dictator and the political end of it was not far. Accusing Mr.
Kejriwal, the Deputy CM said that AAP has set aside Rs. 520 crore for
publicity of AAP Government, which proves the difference of world
between what he said and what he did.

When asked about shifting of prisoners to Punjab from jails of other
states, Mr. Badal said there was clear cut verdict of Apex Court that
no state could release the lifetime convicts. He said that Punjab
Government would not allow anyone to disturb communal harmony and law
and order in the state.

On the issue of Punjabis named in blacklist, Mr. Badal said that the
Punjab Government was taking up the issue with the union government.
He said that there was no need to maintain blacklist and proclaimed offenders should be treated as per law of land and courts could initiate prosecution.

When asked about the menace of stray cattle in state, Mr. Badal said that
Punjab government has prepared a comprehensive plan to construct
gaushalas (cattle sheds) in the state in each district. He said that
process in this regard has been initiated, which would be accomplished
within one year.

Referring to a query regarding mushrooming of chit-fund trade in Malwa
belt, Deputy Chief Minister said that instructions in this regards have been issued to the district administrations to look into the matter by ensuring needful action against the fraudulent people running chit funds.

Earlier addressing the massive congregation before inaugurating Akal
University complex, Deputy Chief Minister said that Kalgidhar Trust
has made commendable contribution in the field of education by setting up
hundreds of educational institutes not only in Punjab but in other
states too. He said that Baru Sahib academies have unique name in
imparting education as well as upholding religious-socio-cultural
values amongst the students.

The Deputy Chief Minsiter said that Punjab Government was contemplating to include sports in educational curriculum as a compulsory subject to build healthy society and sports culture in the state.

Meanwhile Punjab Revenue Minister Mr. Bikram Singh Majithia said that
Sant Iqbal Singh Baru Sahib has setup a world class platform at "Guru
Ki Kashi" to spread the message of unity, brotherhood and religious
awakening. He said the role played by this institution was a role
model for other institutions to serve the mankind by imbibing spirit
of religious-cultural education. Mr. Majithia also urged the trust to
come up with such a world class university in Majha region also to
provide quality education over there.

Among others present on the occasion included Sant Iqbal Singh,
Chairman Kalgidhar Trust, Dr. Khem Singh Gill, Vice President, MLA Mr.
Jeet Mohinder Singh Sidhu, Dr. Gurmel Singh, Vice Chancellor, Mr.
Vinnerjit Singh Goldy, Vice Chairman PRTC, Additional Advocate General
Mr. NDS Maan etc.

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BADAL EXTENDS HEARTIEST FELICITATIONS TO PEOPLE

ON ID-UL-FITR

 Chandigarh, July 17: Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today extended his warm greetings to the people of Punjab especially the Muslim brethren on the eve of Id-ul-Fitr.

In his message, Mr. Badal said that the festival marks the culmination of the holy month of Ramzan and symbolizes love, brotherhood, compassion and spirit of sharing. The Chief Minister said that Id-ul-Fitr also reflected the true character of our composite culture. 

‘May this festival strengthen our resolve to spread peace, harmony and mutual tolerance among the people of Punjab’, Mr. Badal added.

 *******

Sukhbir Singh Badal greets people on Eid- Ul- Fitr

Prays for peace and prosperity of Punjab

 Chandigarh July 17:  Punjab Deputy Chief Minister Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal today greeted the people especially the Muslim brethren on the eve of auspicious occasion of Eid-ul-Fitr.

            In his message, Mr. Badal said that Eid-ul-Fitr marks the end of the period of fasting during the pious month of Ramzan. The festival commemorates brotherhood, amity and the spirit of sharing. It reflects the true spirit of our composite   culture. He called upon people to celebrate the festival rising above their religious affiliations.

            "May the festival strengthen our resolve to promote tolerance and peace and live in harmony," Mr. Badal added.

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PUNJAB RECONSTITUTES BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF PUNJAB LAND DEVELOPMENT AND RECLAMATION CORPORATION LIMITED

Chandigarh July 17:

        The Punjab Government has reconstituted the Board of Directors of Land Development and Reclamation Corporation Limited with immediate effect for smoothening the winding up process of the corporation under the Chairmanship of Sh. Daljeet Singh Special Secretary (D) of Agriculture.  Mr. Sarabjit Singh  Joint Director Agriculture would be the Managing Director, Mrs. Surinder Kaur Waraich Director Finance has been inducted as Director,  Mr. Sarup Lal  Under Secretary Agriculture as Director and Sh. Surinder Pal  General Manager Industries and Commerce as Director (Nominee).

       Disclosing this here today an official spokesperson of the Punjab Government said that the Punjab Government has appointed Sh. Atma Ram Kamboj of Jalalabad (Fazilka) as Director on Board of Directors of Punjab State Warehousing Corporation.

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 TECHNICAL EDUCATION AND INDUSTRIAL TRAINING DEPARTMENT TRANSFERS 7 LECTURERS

1 FOREMAN INSTRUCTOR AND LIBRARIAN ALSO TRANSFERRED

Chandigarh, July 17:

The Technical Education and Industrial Training Department, Punjab today transferred 7 lecturers, 1 foreman instructor and 1 librarian with immediate effect.

Disclosing this, a spokesperson of the Department said that Shally Singla, Lecturer Physics, Rajinderpal Dhiman, Lecturer (Machine), Prabhat Joshi, Lecturer (Electrical), Poornima, Lecturer (M.O.P.) and Librarian Suman Lata have been transferred to Government Polytechnic College, Khoonimajra whereas, Alwinder Dhillon, Senior Lecturer Applied Science has been transferred to Government Polytechnic College Fatoohikhera.

Giving further details, the spokesperson said that Ramandeep Kaur, Lecturer E.C.E. and Simarjit Kaur, Lecturer Chemistry have been transferred to Mai Bhago Government Polytechnic College (Women) Amritsar whereas Ravinder Singh, Foreman Instructor has been posted at Government Polytechnic College, Behram (Shaheed Bhagat Singh Nagar).

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Skilling Punjab imperative to survive in global competition

Punjab focuses on bridging skill gap 

Chandigarh, July17:

The Punjab Government is all set to give a big push to Skill Punjab to meet the human resource requirement of upcoming industry and to ensure that industry in state was fully prepared to meet the cut throat global competition.

Speaking during the session on “Skilling India for Global Competitiveness: Plugging the Skill Gap” organized by PHD chamber of Commerce and Industry, here today at PHD House Secretary, Industrial Training & Technical Education, Punjab R. K. Verma said that it was imperative for the stateto focus on skills and training for productivity and competitive edge . 

 Sharing that the key challenges to the Skill Development being the strengthening State Skill Development Missions; Private sector participation in skill development, Expanding Outreach of skilling programmes, Availability of trainers/instructors/assessors, making skill inspirational, career guidance and post training placement tracking, adopting best practices, Mr. Verma underlined the need for aligning skill training with demand dynamics, effective counselling and guidance besides the able delivery of the training programme.

 “India has a huge advantage of its demographic dividend with 65% of its population under the age of 35 years. However, the manner in which it will use the opportunity will determine whether it will reap its demographic dividend. India must, he said, stress and invest in education and training so that it is able to achieve its target of double digit inclusive growth”, said Vikram Sahgal, Chairman, Chandigarh Committee, PHD Chamber.

 About 63% of the school students drop out at different stages before reaching Class-X. Only about 2.5 million vocational training seats are available in the country whereas about 12.8 million persons enter the labour market every year.  Even out of these training places, very few are available for early school dropouts. Thus, a large number of school drop outs do not have access to skill development for improving their employability, added Sahgal.

 Anil Kumar, IAS, Principal Secretary, Industrial Training, Haryana while echoing the concerns raised by Rakesh Verma, said, “There is an urgent need to have close interaction between the skill requirements of the industry and the available training and employment avenues besides keeping in mind the global challenge of competitiveness.”

 Kumar stressed that practical industrial training should be imparted at the industry floor itself since the technology is changing so fast and getting obsolete too sooner than not, rather than having massive outdated technological infrastructure at ITIs, ITIs should be imparting only the basics.

Vivek Atray, IAS, Deputy Commissioner, Panchkula highlighted that our system is not quick enough to react to the needs of the environment. The world is dynamic ever changing and changing fast but our course curricula remain static, fixed. This gap, he said is very important to plug. 

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 5 ADDITIONAL MARKS TO RURAL CANDIDATES IN GOVERNMENT JOBS: PUNJAB WITHDRAWS INSTRUCTIONS

Chandigarh, July 17:

The Punjab Government has notified instructions to withdraw the policy of according 5 additional marks to the candidates belonging to the rural areas in the direct recruitment of government jobs.

Disclosing this here today an official spokesperson of the Personnel Department said that with the issuance of notification regarding the withdrawal of 5 additional marks to the Rural Candidates in future during the direct recruitment of Government Jobs, the earlier directions issued by the Punjab Government on March 18, 2011, April 4, 2011 and January 6, 2012 has been annulled with immediate effect.

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PUNJAB SEEKS REPORT FROM DEPARTMENTS ON PENDING COURT CASES

CHANDIGARH, JULY 17:

The Punjab Government has directed all the departments to furnish the details of all the court cases pending in different courts. Disclosing this here an official spokesperson of the Personnel Department said that these fresh instructions have been issued on the directions of the Chief Minister, Mr. Parkash Singh Badal. He said that the departments have been told furnish the information of court case related to ‘Service Matter only’. All the department heads have been asked to ensure the compliance and furnish the requisite information on a prescribed Performa at the earliest.

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RAJWANT SINGH MAHLA APPOINTED AS DIRECTOR

Chandigarh, July 17:

The Punjab Government has appointed Rajwant Singh Mahla as Director on the Board of Directors of Punjab Khadi and Village Industries Board, Chandigarh with immediate effect.

A spokesperson of the Department of Industries and Commerce today disclosed this.

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PUNJAB NOTIFIES 3 DEPUTY DISTRICT ATTORNEY AS ADDITIONAL PUBLIC PROSECUTORS

Chandigarh, July 17:

            The Punjab Government has notified 3 Deputy District Attorney as Additional Public Prosecutors.

            Disclosing this here today, a spokesman said that Jagir Singh, Mumtaz Ali and Jatinderjit Singh have been appointed as Additional Public Prosecutors. He said that these appointments have been made under The Code of Criminal Procedure, 1973 (central act No 2 of 1974) sub section 3 of section 24.

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OM PARKASH KAMBOJ APPOINTED AS CHAIRMAN BACKFINCO, NOTIFICATION ISSUED

Chandigarh, July 17:

            The Punjab Government has appointed Sh. Om Parkash Kamboj of Fazilka District as Chairman of Punjab Backward Classes Land Development and Finance Corporation (BACKFINCO).

            Disclosing this here today, a spokesman said that a notification regarding this has been issued by the Welfare Department. He said that the tenure of the Chairman would be one year from the date he assumes charge.  

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PUNJAB SEEKS BIDS FOR CONSTRUCTION OF 9 SILOS-To be completed by March 2016

 Chandigarh July 17: The Punjab State Warehousing Corporation (PSWC) has invited bids for selection of Developer-cum-Operator for construction of food grain Silos of total capacity of 3.75 la c MT at Nine locations through Private Public Partnership (PPP) on design, build, finance, operate and transfer basis.

          Disclosing this here an official spokesperson of the Punjab Government said that silos are to be constructed at Ajnala (Amritsar) with capacity of 50,000 MT, Kartarpur(Jalandhar) with capacity of 25000MT, Banga with capacity of 50,000 MT, Ajitwal (Moga) with capacity of 50,000MT,Phagwara ( Kapurthala ) with capacity of 25000 MT, Balachaur (Nawanshehar) with capacity of 25000MT, Rupnagar (Rupnagar) with capacity of 50,000MT, Dharamkot (Moga) with capacity of 50,000 MT and Makhu (Ferozepur) with capacity of 50,000 totalling 3.75000 MT.

          He said that these site complexes would be targeted to make the storage capacity available to the storage of Wheat of Rabi marketing season (RMC) 2016 and has been scheduled to be completed by 31st March, 2016.

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Punjab most peaceful state, no threat of terrorism- Sukhbir Singh Badal

 (Case submitted to Union Defence Ministry for domestic flights from

Adampur and Halwara airports)

(Uniform VAT on petroleum products in Northern states to check

smuggling of diesel and petrol)

(Captain fighting for personal goals, nothing to do with common man)

 Phagwara, July 16: Punjab Deputy Chief Minister Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal emphasized that Punjab is the most peaceful state in the country where the SAD-BJP Government has maintained the communal harmony as a top priority under the leadership of Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal.

Addressing the media persons after giving away cash awards to 308 medal winners in national and international games here today at Lovely University, Mr. Badal ridiculed that there was no threat of terrorism in the state as Punjab police have nabbed terrorist modules not only from Punjab but also from abroad. Replying to a question about the proposed domestic flights from Adampur and Halwara defence airports, Mr. Badal said he had met the Union Defence Minister Mr. Manohar Parrikar in this regard, besides appointing a senior officer at New Delhi to pursue the proposal submitted by the Punjab Government to the Union Ministry.

Talking about the uniformity in VAT on petroleum products in Northern states, the Deputy Chief Minister said it had already decided in principal by Punjab, Haryana, New Delhi, Himachal Pradesh and UT Chandigarh few months ago to fix uniform VAT on diesel and petrol in adjoining states to check evasion of taxes and oil smuggling. Calling the people to give a befitted reply to the “defame Punjab

campaign” launched by the congress Vice President Mr. Rahul Gandhi and others, he said Punjab was fighting national as well as international war on drugs and not a single gram drug is being produced in Punjab.

He asked to raise voice against the congress who was indulged in false propaganda to gain their political mileage. Answering a question about the rallies organized by former chief minister Captain Amrinder Singh, Mr. Badal said “he has only fighting for personal goals to capture the captaincy of PPCC from Mr. Partap Singh Bajwa and his program has nothing to do with the common people of the state”.

                Taking a dig at the opposition for raising hue and cry over the promises made by SAD-BJP government,  Mr Badal said “I believe in “think big and achieve big”. He said “when I had made a promise that Punjab would be the first power surplus state about 4 years ago than the opposition parties made it a matter of joke but today we can proudly say that Punjab has archived its target” adding he said in next 8 months Punjab would have 5000 MW surplus power.

                He further said that now the next target was fixed to connect all major cities with 4/6 lanes with investment of Rs. 20,000 crore in next 2 years which mainly includes 4/6 laning of Ludhiana-Chandigarh,

Jalandhar-Chandigarh, Jalandhar-Moga and Amritsar-Bathinda. He said all these projects would witness implementation on ground in next 2 months as tender process has already been set in. Calling the people to be a proud in being Punjabi, the Deputy chief minister said the Punjab has achieved development in uniform way in rural and urban infrastructure as against the partial development of cities only in other states. Mr. Badal has also announced that Punjab would provide 100 % sewerage, water supply, streets lighting facilities in all 150 towns of the state at a cost of Rs. 4000 crore.

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Sukhbir Badal honours 306 outstanding players with cash prizes of Rs. 9 crore

(Punjab to bear all expenses for special training to players)

(Punjab Government contemplating to make sports subject compulsory)

 Phagwara July 16: In a bid to create sports culture in the state Punjab Deputy Chief Minister Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal today announced that State government will bear all expenses for special training at abroad for outstanding players as Punjab had created a dedicated sports fund with outlay of Rs 100 crore.

Mr Badal was addressing the outstanding players during cash award ceremony held here at Lovely University on Thursday. Emphasizing the need to give special attention to promote sports, Deputy Chief Minister said state government has already setup Punjab Institute of Sports at Mohali to provide professional and scientific training to the budding players. He said eleven games would be promoted by this institute besides six centers of excellences also be established under this institute. He stressed that Punjab has set the target to ensure maximum participation in the Indian contingent in ensuing Rio Olympic 2016.

With an aim to promote sports at grass root level Deputy CM informed that Punjab government is contemplating on a proposal to make sports education a mandatory subject at school level to give impetus to sports activities among the students. He said there would be no dearth of funds for the players and sports events as Punjab was the first state in the country to have dedicated sports fund for promotion of sports.

Mr Badal today awarded international and national winners with cash prizes that included sports icons like Heena Sidhu in shooting with cash prize of Rs. 23 Lakh, Prabhjot Bajwa (Gymnastics) Rs. 22 Lakh, Manavjit Sidhu (Shooting) Rs. 17 Lakh, Ranjan Sodhi (Shooting) Rs. 15 Lakh, Manpreet Singh Rs. 14 Lakh and Harveen Sarao with Rs. 10 Lakh. Besides Mukesh Kumar and Poonam in table tennis were handed over Rs. 14 Lakh each, Gurbaj Singh (Cycling) with Rs.  13 Lakh 85 thousand, Navjit Kaur (Athletics) Rs. 9 Lakh, Swaran Singh (Rowing) Rs 5 Lakh. In addition to this cash prize distribution ceremonies would also be organized in various districts in which cabinet ministers and chief parliamentary secretaries would honour the medallists.

It may be mentioned here that sports department has invited applications from medal winners since 2011 to 2015 in various international and national sports events. After evaluating their achievements 831 players were found eligible in 2010-11, 518 in 2011-12, 745 in 2012-13 and 1470 in 2013-14 and 2014-15 for bestowing cash awards. Besides, 164 medalists were also selected who have earned laurels in various national games.

Speaking on the occasion Secretary Sports Mr. Ashok Gupta informed that four foreign coaches would be deployed in the Punjab Institute of Sports to impart professional training to the promising players. He said that State Government had already reserved 125 posts in Police department for the players form Punjab every year who would achieve laurels for the state. Chairman Lovely Professional University Ashok Mittal announced that LPU would waive tuition fee of all awardees and provide scholarship and free accommodation if they opt to join this institute for further studies.

Prominent among others present on the occasion included cabinet minister Ajit Singh Kohar, Chief Parliamentary Secretaries Pawan Kumar Tinu and Som Parkash, Jarnail Singh Wahad chairman Markfed Punjab, Principal Secretary to Deputy CM P.S. Aujla, Secretary sports Ashok Kumar Gupta, Director sports Tajinder Singh Dhaliwal, Raja KS Sidhu Secretary General Punjab Olympic Association, Chancellor Lovely Professional University Ramesh Mittal and parents and relatives of sports icons.

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MAJOR PUSH TO MAKE PUNJAB CLEAN, GREEN AND POLLUTION FREE

CM GIVES NOD FOR PLANTING 40 LAKH NEW SAPLINGS IN THE STATE DURING CURRENT FISCAL

PRESIDES OVER GOVERNING COUNCIL MEET OF ‘GREENING PUNJAB MISSION’

GAVE APPROVAL TO ANNUAL PLAN OUTLAY OF CAMPA

WORK ON STATE FOREST INSTITUTE AT LADHOWAL TO BE COMPLETED BY NOVEMBER THIS YEAR

BIGGEST OF ITS KIND CLONAL EUCALYPTUS NURSERY COMING UP AT LUDHIANA

HERBAL CUM MEDICINAL PLANTS NURSERY AT TALWARA TO SERVE AS A MODEL FOR REPLICATION IN OTHER AREAS OF KANDI REGION

Chandigarh, July 16-

            As a part of making the state clean, green and pollution free under the ongoing Greening Mission, the Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal gave nod to provide free saplings for planting 40 lakh plants of various species during the current fiscal in the all the government institutions and villages across the state.

Presiding over a high level meeting of Governing council of the Greening Punjab Mission here at Punjab Bhawan this morning, the Chief Minister asked the officers of the forest department to carefully the choose the plants as per the topography of the different regions of the state to ensure the longevity of the plants. He said that officers were required to play a proactive role for transforming this campaign into a mass movement by ensuring the proper upkeep of the plants. Mr. Badal pointed out that the officers must ensure the strict maintenance of these plants after they were planted at the respective place. He also gave nod for sending the officers of the forest department abroad to undertake further studies for the preservation of plants in scientific manner.

During the meeting the Chief Minister also approved projects worth Rs 16 crore regarding number of plants to be raised in departmental nurseries, plantation on different government institutional lands by department, five new projects for improving urban forestry and imparting education to the citizens by creating pockets of forest near Ropar, Amritsar, Patiala, Ludhiana and Bathinda, establishment of common facility centre in Talwara for increased value addition of local products, bio-drainage plantations for water logged areas of southern Punjab and Research works in PUA Ludhiana, FRI Dehradun and IPRITI Banglore. 

The Chief Minister also gave concurrence for the Annual Plan Outlay for 2015-16 under CAMPA to the tune of Rs 67.95 crore. These key attributes included Bio diversity Conservation and Management which included development of sanctuaries, zoological parks and deer safari, special projects including development of Bir Kullemajra, Bir Ashwan, Bir Mehes, Rampura Phul, Rakh Bahru, Hargobindpur, Malwa project and others, Forest Protection and Fire control by creation of fire lines and other related measures, silviculture operations, pruning and others besides undergoing new plantation of forests in 2495 hectares of land and maintenance of 7033 hectares. 

The Chief Minister was apprised in the meeting that the work on construction of state Forrest Institute at Ladhowal near Ludhiana, in collaboration with Forest Research Institute (FRI) Dehradun, was going on in full swing and this project coming up at a cost of Rs 23.29 crore would be completed by November this year. This institute would focus on research related to agro forestry promotion in the state. Likewise, a Clonal Eucalyptus Nursery was being set up at Ludhiana with the collaboration of FRI Dehradun which would be the biggest of its kind in the north India and would a capacity of provide 50 lakh clonal Eucalyptus seedlings to the farmers. In the same manner a herbal cum medicinal plants nursery has been set up on 25 acre area in Talwara region which would serve as a model for replication in other areas of Kandi region in the future.

Prominent amongst other present on the occasion included Principal Secretary Finance Mr. DP Reddy, Secretary Rural Development and Panchayats Mr. A Venuprasad, Special Principal Secretaries to Chief Minister Mr. KJS Cheema and Dr. S Karuna Raju, Secretary Expenditure Mr. Jaspal Singh, Chief Forest Conservator Dr. Kuldeep Kumar and Vice Chancellor PAU Dr. BS Dhillon.

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WITH 117 MW CAPACITY ADDITIONS IN JUST FOUR MONTHS, PUNJAB EMERGES AS DREAM DESTINATION IN SOLAR SECTOR

MAJITHIA INAUGURATES RS. 84 CRORE SOLAR POWER PLANT OF 10.50 MW SET UP BY MAJOR INFRASTRUCTURE DEVELOPER LANCO GROUP

·       ACME GROUP TO SET UP OF 100 MW SOLAR PROJECTS IN MANSA BY MARCH 2016

 ·       FRENCH SOLAR GIANT ‘SOLAIREDIRECT’ TO ADD 54 MW  IN PRESENT CAPACITY OF 34 MW IN FAZILKA

 ·       RECORD 208 MW ADDITIONS IN SOLAR POWER CAPACITIES WITH INVESTMENT OF RS. 1600 CRORE IN LAST THREE YEARS

Sangatpura (Sunam), July 16: Punjab today took a big leap by dedicating 10.50 MW Solar Power Plant to the nation thereby becoming first state in the country to operationalize 117 MW solar powers within last four months and emerged as the dream destination for investment in solar sector due to investor friendly initiatives of the state government.

In an impressive function held here today, the Punjab New & Renewable Energy Minister Mr. Bikram Singh Majithia along with Sant Balvir Singh Ghunas and Mr. Parkash Chand Garg, both Chief Parliamentary Secretaries inaugurated 10.50 MW solar power project set up by Omega Solar Projects Private Limited, Solar power subsidiary of world renowned major infrastructure Lanco Group having gross turnover of Rs. 10000 crore. This 10.50 MW plant has been set up at the cost of Rs. 84 crore in 45 acres of land taken on lease by the company. It may be mentioned here that Lanco group has mega thermal and solar power projects in the country.

Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Majithia said that the tiny steps started three years ago in renewable energy sector has now become giant leaps with world renowned solar power companies investing liberally in the state keeping in view its progressive and investor friendly approach. He said that major solar power developers like Lanco, Solairedirect and Acme etc have come to Punjab after getting convinced with the novel initiative of "Invest Punjab" started by Punjab Deputy Chief Minister Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal and pro investor approach of New & Renewable Energy department. Mr. Majithia revealed that Acme Group was all set to operationalize their 100 MW Solar projects in district Mansa by March 2016 and French solar giant ‘SOLAIREDIRECT’ to add 54 MW  in its present capacity of 34 mw solar power  in district Fazilka.

Speaking on occasion, Mr. Krishan Mohan Vadhera, GM, Lanco Group shared his experience of setting up this project and cooperation extended by state government in timely execution of the project. He said that the positive approach of the Punjab Government & the support of the Punjab Energy Development Agency have boosted their confidence and they would soon invest in a big way in RE sector in state. He categorically said that Punjab has best RE Policy in country with unique facilities like single window clearances and 25 years power purchase agreement. He said that Lanco group would soon announce a big solar project for the state.

Mr. Majithia said our government was committed for promoting green and clean energy to make its humble contribution in meeting the challenges of global warming looming large on one hand to hand over a more green and  better livable planet to our future generations. He revealed that the Punjab was all set to operationalize 500 MW solar powers by March 2016 and with finalization of two more schemes for Farmers’ and major solar companies, the target was to achieve 1000 MW solar power generation by March 2017.

He said that the farmers of Punjab have been evincing keen interest in solar power as PEDA has recently got Expressions of Interest for 1200 MW as farmers offered more than 6000 acres against the initial estimates of 500 MW. He said that the state farmers were now getting remunerative lease rates besides high rates even for non-fertile lands. He informed that besides solar power our government was also committed for harnessing the abundant potential available for biomass energy with dual aim of enhancing the farmers’ income from agri-waste on one hand and saving the environment on the other.

The Minister revealed that number of NRIs was opting for solar power and till date they have invested Rs. 245 crore in five projects having joint power generation capacity of 45 MW. He said that number of other such projects by NRIs were under different stages of implementation.

Mr. Majithia said that the concerted efforts of Punjab on Renewable Energy (RE) front have got national recognition as the Prime Minister has awarded it as best performing state on RE front during International REINVEST Summit-2015 held in New Delhi. Besides this, Renewable Energy Promotion Association (REPA) has also awarded Punjab as the Best Bio-energy State of India with highest installed capacity of rural agro waste based – biomass energy conversion projects. Punjab has 62.5 MW capacities in biomass power generation, he added.

Earlier, speaking on the occasion, Sant Balvir Singh Ghunas , CPS appreciated the efforts of Mr. Majithia on solar power front and expressed confidence that the intelligent and progressive Punjabis would make a significant contribution in path breaking initiatives of state in renewable energy sector.

Prominent amongst others who were present on the occasion included; Mr. Upkar Singh Sandhu, Chairman, PEDA, Mr. B. Venkateswarlu, Director, Lanco Group, Mr. Sanjay Varghese, Chief Operating Officer, Omega Solar Projects Private Limited, Mr. Winnerjit Singh Goldy, Vice Chairman, PRTC and Mr. Teja Singh Kamalpur, President, SAD Sangrur unit, Dr. Amarpal Singh, CEO, PEDA and Mr. Balour Singh, Director, PEDA.

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SC COMMISSION DIRECTS PUNJAB TO LAUNCH CRIMINAL PROCEEDINGS AGAINST THOSE AVAILING BENEFITS AGAINST WRONGLY ISSUED SC CERTIFICATES

·   TAKES STRONG NOTICE OF CHRISTIANS AND MUSLIMS SEEKING BENEFITS OF SCs

 ·   STATE TOLD TO FIX ACCOUNTABILITY OF OFFICIALS/OFFICERS INVOLVED IN THE RACKET

 ·   DIRECTIONS ISSUED TO LAUNCH RE-VERIFICATION DRIVE OF SC CERTIFICATES

Chandigarh, July 16: The Punjab State Commission for Scheduled Castes today issued directions to Punjab Government to launch criminal proceedings under relevant acts against persons wrongly availing the benefits of Scheduled Castes, depriving eligible and needy Scheduled Castes beneficiaries of their rightful share.

                In a communiqué to Welfare Department in  a case relating to a Christian Jagdip Singh s/o Ajit Masih  of district Pathankot, who got a Indane gas agency in SC quota allotted on a SC certificate issued by concealing his identity and caste, Mr. Rajesh Bagha, Chairman SC Commission, Punjab observed that this case gives an impression that a large scale racket was running in the state in which Muslims and Christians by concealing their names and castes were getting SC Certificates issued in which connivance of districts officers of welfare department cannot be ruled out. The Commission also pointed out that earlier a case of Muslim in district Sangrur, who contested Vidhan Sabha in 2012 election on SC quota seat came to the notice of commission and now this case of Christian has come to its notice. The Commission also pointed out that State cannot allow any other caste to encroach in the benefits meant for Scheduled Castes community that has been granted by Constitution of India and State Government must take step to go deep into the racket and proceed against those peoples who were taking the benefits of SCs by concealing their castes.

                The Commission on a complaint against Jagdeep Singh sought report from Welfare Department and its vigilance cell. The SDM Pathankot in his report had admitted that Jagdip Singh got the Scheduled Castes certificate had concealed the information and Commission on the report of welfare department has ordered cancellation of SC certificate, initiation of criminal proceedings against Jagdip Singh and ordering an enquiry to fix the accountability of officials/officers in issuing the SC certificate. The Commission has asked Welfare Department to launch state-wide drive to check such cases.

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 'PATIENT FEEDBACK FORMS TO BE INTRODUCED IN GOVERNMENT HOSPITALS----VINI MAHAJAN

 Chandigarh, July 16

                   The Punjab Government is soon going to introduce 'Patient Feedback Forms' in all the state government Hospitals. Directions in this regard have been given to the Civil Surgeons by Ms. Vini Mahajan, Principal Secretary, Health & Family Welfare, Punjab during the 14th Executive Committee meeting of the State Health Society. During the meeting the progress under different health programmes was reviewed by Principal Secretary, Health, under whose chairpersonship the meeting was held. 

                   Giving further information in this regard Ms. Mahajan informed that presently a Patient Satisfaction Survey through PGI is in process. Based on the questionnaire developed by PGIMER, Chandigarh, this feedback format shall be developed, which would emphasize on key service delivery areas in the health institutions. A mechanism to install feedback boxes is also being discussed and will be finalized soon. Ms. Mahajan said that the move is aimed at putting in place more accountability & better behavior by the staff deputed in the hospitals and providing better health care facilities to the patients. She added that based on the feedback, the government shall identify the areas and services that needed further improvement. A direct feedback from the patients shall also help the department to analyze the specific and general problems being faced by patients and thereafter a strategy can be devised to provide effective solutions to such problems. This will not only instill further confidence in the patients visiting public health institutions, but also provide them a platform to share their views and suggestions regarding govt. health facilities.           

                   Ms. Vini Mahajan further shared that a toll free non-emergency medical helpline 'Dial 104' is already functioning in the state. Residents of Punjab can easily avail useful information, counseling and medical advice on various health issues from the qualified medical practitioners, clinical psychologists and paramedics by calling this 24 hour helpline. Any suggestions and complaints regarding deficiencies in services in government health institutions can be registered on this helpline, for which a mechanism for speedy and effective redressal of the complaints at different levels is already in place.

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PUNJAB SEEKS REPORT FROM DEPARTMENTS ON JOBS PROVIDED ON COMPASSIONATE GROUND

CHANDIGARH, JULY 16:

The Punjab Government has sought a comprehensive appraisal report from all the department on the implementation of ‘jobs on compassionate ground’ policy within a fortnight. Department have been directed to furnish details of jobs provided by them to the next of the kin of the deceased employees on compassionate grounds in the last 5 years.

Disclosing this here an official spokesperson of the Punjab Government said that this appraisal report has been sought from the department to review the present policy of ‘jobs on compassionate ground’ so that the process of providing jobs to the next kin of the deceased employees could be expedited. The report has been sought on a prescribed Performa within 15 days, the report would include the total number of applications received, their present status, reasons for the delay in processing the case. Similarly departments have also been directed to mention in the report those cases which have been cleared by the respective department/ Redeployment Cell for the jobs on compassionate grounds. The spokesperson said that these reports would enable the Punjab Government to review the present policy and to remove the bottlenecks by amending the present ‘jobs on compassionate ground’ policy.

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7800 SEATS INCREASED IN TECHNICAL EDUCATION INSTITUTES ·       5 ITIs ALSO BEING SET UP

·       SPECIAL FOCUS ON TRAINING OF FACULTY

Chandigarh, July 16:

The Department of Technical Education & Industrial Training, Punjab has increased 7800 seats in the Technical Education institutes in the state during current year besides introducing more industry relevant trades. Besides this, a target to train about 2.5 lakh persons has also been fixed for this year.

Divulging the details, the Technical Education and Industrial Training Minister, Punjab, Madan Mohan Mittal said that these steps have been formulated to ensure the employability of the youth of the state by providing them skill training in the trades as per demands of the industrial sector. He also informed that the department has undergone a big rationalization drive based on inputs from various stakeholders like principals, industry partners etc. based on which irrelevant trades were discontinued.

Elaborating further, the Minister informed that steps have been initiated to provide the required infrastructure and manpower. In this regard 268 teaching and 34 non teaching faculties have been newly recruited for the ITIs. He divulged that the department has also taken various steps for placement of the trainees. Around 300 campus interviews and 51 job fairs were organized during the last year wherein more than 9800 trainees were placed in reputed industries.

            Coming to the important aspect of skill development, the Minister said that State Skill Development Mission has been set up to effectively implement of various skill development initiatives in the State

Divulging more details about skill development, the Minister said that Multi-Skill Development Centers (MSDCs) are planned at each District in the State. The main centre at the district level ITI will serve as a hub and smaller centers at other ITIs in the district will serve as spokes. In the first phase, MSDCs are being set up at Jalandhar, Ludhiana, Amritsar, Bathinda and Hoshiarpur, which would then be replicated at other locations. The industry specific demand driven courses shall be started at these centers. Besides, five new ITI's are also being set up at Adampur (Jalandhar), Maloud (Ludhiana), Niari (Gurdaspur), Singhpura (Roop Nagar) and Manakpur Sharif (Mohali).

            Touching the vital aspect of providing requisite training to the faculty, the Minister said that for this purpose a Regional Vocational Training Institute is being set up at Balongi (SAS Nagar) exclusively for women. With the temporary arrangements admission for this year has been started at ITI (w) Rajpura.  Another institute for Training of Trainers is also being set up at Lalru to prepare instructors in various trades. The institute shall not only cater to the State of Punjab but the neighboring six States shall also be benefited. 

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PUNJAB NOTIFIES 26 OFFICERS AS ADDITIONAL DISTRICT & SESSIONS JUDGES

Chandigarh, July 16:

            On the recommendations of Hon'ble Punjab and Haryana High Court, The Punjab Government has notified 26 officers as Additional District & Sessions Judges in Punjab.

            Disclosing this here today, a spokesman of Department of Home Affairs and Justice said that Sh. Muneesh Arora posted as  Additional District Sessions Judge at Amritsar, Sh. Jaspal Verma at Ludhiana, Ms. Ranjeet Kaur at Faridkot, Sh. Rakesh Kumar-1 at Bathinda,  Sh. Harish Anand at Roop Nagar, Sh. Ashok Kapoor at Amritsar, Sh. Ranjan Kumar Khullar at Gurdaspur, Sh. Karamjit Singh Sullar at Mansa,  Sh. Jaspinder Singh at Ludhiana, Sh. Rajeev K. Beri at Gurdaspur, Sh. Sandeep Singh Jossan at Patiala,  Sh. Balwant Singh at Jalandhar, Sh. Tejinderbir Singh as Chandigarh Addl. Member Secretary, Punjab Legal Services Authority,  Sh. Amrinder Singh Shergill at Tarn Taran,  Dr. Gopal Arora at Fazilka,  Ms. Jagdeep Kaur Virk at Rupnagar, Sh. Gurnam Singh Dhillon at Jalandhar,  Sh. Arun Kumar Aggarwal at Fazilka, Sh. Krishan Kumar Singla at Sangrur,  Sh. Vijay Kumar at Jalandhar,  Sh. Kawaljit Singh at Ludhiana,  Ms. Lukhvinder Kaur Duggal at Pathankot,  Sh. Shatin Goyal at Sangrur, Dr. Rajneesh at Patiala, Sh. Daljit Singh Rahlan at Ludhiana  and Sh. Tarntaran Singh Bindra posted as  Additional District Sessions Judge at Mohali.

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CM BATS FOR ADOPTION OF PUNJAB LAND ACQUISITION POLICY AS A ROLE MODEL FOR NATIONAL POLICY

PLEADS FOR NOT ACQUIRING LAND WITHOUT THE CONSENT OF THE FARMERS AND THE LAND OWNERS

THANKS MODI FOR CALLING A MEETING ON A VERY CRUCIAL SUBJECT AS AGRICULTURE WAS TODAY FACING A SERIOUS CRISIS IN THE COUNTRY

CONTENDS THAT LAND ACQUISITION, WHETHER FOR STATE OR CENTRAL PROJECTS SHOULD BE SOLELY LEFT TO THE STATE GOVERNMENTS

APPRISES THAT PUNJAB HAD A LAND ACQUISITION POLICY WHICH HAS BEEN SO FAR TOTALLY SMOOTH, PEACEFUL AND HASSLE FREE

PROPOSES THAT SOCIAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT CLAUSE SHOULD APPLY TO ALL ACQUISITIONS TO ENSURE THE PROCESS OF LAND ACQUISITION FAR MORE FAIR, TRANSPARENT AND ACCOUNTABLE

New Delhi, July 15-

Strongly pleading that land should not be acquired by government without the consent of the farmers and the land owners, the Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today urged the Government of India (GoI) to adopt Punjab Land acquisition policy as a role model for national policy on the proposed Land Acquisition Bill-2015.

Expressing these views during a high level meeting of the Chief Ministers convened by the Prime Minister Mr. Narendra Modi at his official residence 7 Race Course Road here today, the Chief Minister thanked Mr. Modi for calling this meeting on a very crucial subject as agriculture was today facing a serious crisis in the country. Moreover, he said that, agriculture was a losing profession resulting in heavy debt and farm suicides. In the light of this grim scenario the Land Acquisition Bill 2015 has caused great concern in the minds of farmers and farm labourers, he added.

The Chief Minister however said that the general perception in the minds of the farmers was that this bill was anti-farmers. Mr. Badal said that he was of firm view that land acquisition, whether for state or central projects should be left to the state governments and this land should be acquired only with the consent of owners, solely for the public purposes.

Outlining the salient features of the time tested Punjab land acquisition policy, the Chief Minister apprised Mr. Modi that Punjab had a land acquisition policy which has been so far totally smooth, peaceful and hassle free. He said that under this policy land was acquired with the consent of the owners and the farmers were paid market price plus displacement allowance. Mr. Badal said that in order to pay market price district price fixation committees have been set up which included local MP, MLA, Sarpanch and the head of Municipal Committee.

Likewise, the Chief Minister also enumerated the advantages of Land pooling policy being followed in the state adding he said that when land was acquired for residential/ commercial projects under this policy the land owners were free to choose for market price or 1000 square yards of residential areas and 121 square yards of commercial area in the developed property for every acre of land acquired. Under another policy the owners of the acquired land have been given option to choose between the market price or 80% share in the profit of real estate project undertaken on this land. In this way, Mr. Badal said that the land owners become partner in the development process.    

The Chief Minister also proposed that social impact assessment clause should apply to all acquisitions to ensure the process of Land Acquisition far more fair, transparent and accountable. Responding to other agenda items, Mr. Badal urged the centre to frame rules after the bill finally becomes an Act. He said that the state government has already fixed the multiplication factor besides appointing Administrators and Commissioners for Rehabilitation and Settlement. He further informed that Punjab was in the process of setting up state monitoring committee and notifying the extent of land purchased through private negotiations for rehabilitation and resettlement purposes. Replying to another item, the Chief Minister said that there was no Act which required fresh Presidential ascent in the state.

MITTAL BATS FOR THE NEED TO CONSERVE OIL AND NATURAL GAS

SAYS, THEIR PRESERVATION NECESSARY FOR INDUSTRIAL GROWTH

ADDRESSES ‘OIL AND NATURAL GAS SUMMIT’

Chandigarh, July 15:

The Industries, Commerce and Technical Education Minister, Punjab, Madan Mohan Mittal today made a strong case for strengthening the energy basket by proper utilisation of resources.

Stating this, an official spokesperson said that the Minister was speaking at the ‘India Oil and Gas Summit-2015’ organised by Indian Chamber of Commerce held today at Hotel Le Meridian, New Delhi. The spokesperson further said that the Minister also said that conservation of oil and gas is also very vital for the rapid development of Industrial sector.

Mr. Mittal said that unbridled exploitation of fossil fuel by present generation would put existence of future generations in jeopardy creating global energy crisis. he said that it was imperative for all of us to launch 3 prong strategy including conservation of fossil fuels, focus on non-renewable energy besides accelerating research to go for low energy production devices. He said that all countries must pull their resources for making hydrogen engine affordable to common masses to lower the dependence on fossil fuels.

Stressing upon need for a separate global fund to tackle environmental pollution by vehicular fuels, Mr. Mittal said that we would have to launch a selective war to save humanity from pollution.

NCC TO BE GIVEN PREFERENCE IN SCHOOLS AND COLLEGES—DR. CHEEMA

 Chandigarh July 15: Aiming at promoting discipline and sports in the schools and colleges, National Cadet Corps (NCC) would be given special preference at the time of recruitments. This was stated here today by Education Minister Punjab, Dr. Daljit Singh Cheema in a meeting with Additional Director General Northern Unit of NCC Major Gen. G.S.Cheema.

            Terming the NCC as an integral part of student life, Dr. Cheema said that the students enrolled with NCC have always been closer to a disciplined and physicality fit life style. He also said that it has always played a positive role in keeping the socio-cultural values intact in students besides providing them a perfect platform towards a healthy life style.

            Briefing the Minister on NCC activities, Major Gen. Cheema said that at present, there were active NCC groups in 457 schools and 240 colleges of the state and as many as 25000 students are enrolled with NCC every year. He also said that world class NCC Academies are already functional in Ropar and Malout grooming the NCC Cadets.

            Besides accepting a few demands raised by the Additional General NCC of Nothern India, instantaneously, Dr. Cheema announced a grant of Rs. 5 Lakh from out of his discretionary fund to NCC Academy Ropar. He also announced to develop NCC Academy Ropar as a modal Academy in the county.  He also said that the departments of higher education and school education would work in unison to promote NCC activities in the schools and colleges of Punjab.   

            Meanwhile, Dr. Cheema said that at the time of recruitment of Physical Education instructors, DPE/PTI having NCC “C” certificate or participated in Republic Day Parade would be given special preference. Major General Cheema presented a memento to Dr. Cheema.DPI Secondary Mr. Balbir Singh Dhol also present in the meeting.

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 Roads to be strengthened under "rural mission" with Rs 1550 crore-Sukhbir Singh Badal

(35000 kilometers road network to get a facelift in the state)

(Third party audit of construction work to be implemented)

 Chandigarh, July 15: The Punjab Government is all set to give a massive fillip to the road infrastructure in the state with Deputy Chief Minister Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal today asked the authorities concerned to accomplish re-carpeting and strengthening of existing road network in the state by the end of this year.

While presiding over a high-level review meeting in this regard here today Mr. Badal accompanied by PWD Minister Mr Janmeja Singh Sekhon said that all the roads in the state would be potholes free, fully repaired and well constructed by the end of this year. He said roads having more than 35000 kilometers network like state highways, link roads and rural roads would be given a facelift. He also directed that those roads, which required complete overhaul, should be reconstructed with modern techniques.

It was also informed in the meeting that all rural roads would be repaired and reconstructed besides making them completely potholes free under "rural mission" at a cost of more than Rs 1550 crore.

Mr Badal also said that Punjab government has decided that construction of roads would be duly inspected by the concerned panchayats or municipal authorities to ensure the quality of work. He said that concerned authority under whose jurisdiction the construction of road took place would issue a certificate to the construction agency for transparency in the work. "Only if the supervision of the work is found good, the agency would receive a certificate from the panchayats or urban local bodies," he said.

Further, with an aim to bring more transparency in the construction of roads, it was announced that a third party audit of road construction work would also be conducted. He said quality compromise would never tolerated at any cost.

Prominent among others present in the meeting included Mr N.S Kalsi Additional Chief Secretary PWD, Mr. Suresh Kumar Principal Secretary Development, Mr D.P Reddy Financial Commissioner Taxation, Mr Mandeep Singh Sandhu Principal Secretary, Mr PS Aujla Principal Secretary to Deputy CM, Mr A.Venu Prasad Secreaty Housing, Mr Jaspal Singh Secretary Finance, Mr Anurag Verma ETC and Mr DK Tiwari Special Secretay.

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PM to launch Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana tomorrow-Jaitley

Amritsar, July 14: Union Finance Minister Mr. Aruj Jaitley today said that Prime Minister Mr. Narendra Modi will launch Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana tomorrow to create a skilled manpower at grass root level by providing them vocational, technical and skill development education across the country.

While presiding over convocation at Global Institutes here, Mr. Jaitley said this ambitious program being launched under National Skill Development Mission would impart skill training to 24 lakh youth over the next year and trained candidates would be awarded with incentives. The Minister said this program would prove a milestone for skilled youngsters as they could become self-reliant after getting professional training.  Exhorting the students to become the best he said only skilled and professionals could compete in this competitive era. On the occasion, Mr. Jaitley also conferred degrees to graduates and post graduates of Global Institutes.

Earlier Finance Minister also laid a foundation stone of a school building at Daburji to be constructed at a cost of Rs. 20 crore by Chief Khalsa Diwan, a charitable society already running more than dozen educational institutes across the state.

Meanwhile Mr Jaitley accompanied by Punjab Local Bodies Minister Mr. Anil Joshi took a round of under construction educational complex in the premises of Madhav Vidya Niketan Senior Secondary School Amritsar. This complex will have an auditorium, AC hall and conference room.

Prominent amongst those present on the occasions included Chief Parliamentary Secretary Mr. Krishan Dev Bhandari, Punjab BJP Chief Mr. Kamal Sharma, Mayor Bakshi Ram Arora, President Chief Khalsa Diwan Mr. Charanjit Singh Chadha and senior leaders of SAD-BJP.  

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CM MOURNS SAD DEMISE OF SENIOR SCRIBE ASHOK SHARMA

DEPUTY CM AND MAJITHIA ALSO CONDOLES DEATH OF FORMER ASSISTANT EDITOR OF PUNJABI TRIBUNE

Chandigarh, July 14-

Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today expressed profound grief and sorrow over the sad demise of former Assistant Editor of Punjabi Tribune and ex- Deputy Editor of state government’s Punjabi magazine- Jagriti Mr. Ashok Sharma who passed away here this afternoon after a prolonged illness.

Recalling the outstanding journalistic services rendered by Mr. Sharma during his long professional career, the Chief Minister described him as a fearless and upright journalist who discharged his duties with utmost dedication, sincerity and professional commitment to pursue the ultimate goal of freedom of press in true spirit. He said that in the death of Mr. Sharma a void has been created in the journalistic fraternity and literary circles which was difficult to be filled in near future.

Sharing his heartfelt condolences with the bereaved family members, friends and relatives, the Chief Minister prayed to the Almighty to grant eternal peace to the departed soul and strength to them for bearing this irreparable loss in this hour of grief.

          Meanwhile, the Deputy Chief Minister Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal and Information and Public Relations Minister Mr. Bikram Singh Majithia also mourned the sad demise of Mr. Sharma.

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CM BATS FOR CONSTITUTING PRIME MINISTER’S SUB GROUP TO TACKLE AGRARIAN CRISIS

BADAL TO TAKE UP THE ISSUE WITH PM TOMORROW

HOPES THAT THIS SUB-GROUP WOULD BE BENEFICIAL FOR PREPARING A BLUE PRINT TO MAKE THE AGRICULTURE OCCUPATION ECONOMICALLY VIABLE

PLEADS FOR CROP INSURANCE FOR FARMERS

AMOUNT SANCTIONED BY NDA GOVERNMENT FOR ROAD SECTOR ALONE WOULD BE DIFFICULT TO CARRY IN EVEN ‘TWO FULL TRUCKLOADS’

SAD-BJP ALLIANCE WAS NOT MERELY A POLITICAL ALLIANCE BUT ACTUALLY A SOCIAL ALLIANCE- JAITLEY

DESCRIBES BADAL AS A TOWERING PERSONALITY IN INDIAN POLITY

PUNJAB TO BE IMMENSELY BENEFITTED FROM BUDGETARY ALLOCATION OF RS 50000 CRORE FOR THE NATIONAL IRRIGATION NETWORK

PRACTICAL CROP INSURANCE SCHEME FOR FARMERS ON CARDS

16 CITIES OF STATE SELECTED UNDER AMRUT FOR COMPLETE TRANSFORMATION- VENKIAH NAIDU

DEPUTY CM RAISES ISSUE OF RESUMING FLIGHTS FROM INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT AMRITSAR

VIES FOR GRANTING PERMISSION TO SET UP DOMESTIC AIR TERMINALS AT ADAMPUR AND HALWARA AIR FORCE TERMINALS

LASHES OUT AT CAPTAIN FOR NEVER BOTHERING ABOUT COMMON MAN

MAJITHIA SEEKS EXTENSION OF EASTERN FREIGHT CORRIDOR UPTO ATTARI

THANKS JAITLEY FOR SANCTIONING MAJOR DEVELOPMENT PROJECTS FOR THE STATE

CM AND JAITLEY VISITS MERITORIOUS SCHOOL AND DRUG DE-ADDICTION AND REHABILITATION CENTER

Amritsar, July 14-

          Realizing the plight of the distressed peasantry in the country, the Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today urged the Government of India (GoI) to immediately constitute a sub group of the Chief Ministers from the predominantly agrarian states to address the issues related to them on the priority.

          Addressing the state level function to launch three major development projects here at Ranjit Avenue, the Chief Minister said that it was the high time to redress the grievances of beleaguered peasantry, which was on cross roads due to the apathy of the previous Congress governments at the Centre. He reminded the NDA government led by the Prime Minister Mr. NarendraModi that these hapless farmers were banking upon his government to bring them out from the deep agrarian crisis prevailing in the country. Mr. Badal said that he would personally take a call on this issue tomorrow when he meets the Prime Minister during a meeting of Chief Ministers in New Delhi.

          The Chief Minister said that he was nominated as the convener of one such Sub group for Skill Development, which has certainly come up with certain path breaking recommendations likely to be submitted to the GoI in its final report. He hoped that recommendations of this sub-group would also be beneficial for preparing a blue print to make the agriculture occupation economically viable and financially sustainable. Mr. Badal also pointed out that the dynamic Prime Minister like Mr. Modi could only resolve this issue efficaciously as this had ever remained the least priority of the successive Congress governments.

          The Chief Minister also urged the Union Finance Minister Mr. ArunJaitley to come up with a viable crop insurance policy to cover the entire damage suffered by the farmers due to the natural calamities and even vagaries of weather. He said that his government had been pleading time and again before the Congress led UPA government to introduce this scheme but of no avail. Mr. Badal said that they were quite hopeful for insurance scheme for the farmers in the near future as the NDA government in its first year has gifted prestigious projects like HRIDAY scheme, IIM and Post Graduate Institute of Horticulture Research and Education for Amritsar besides setting up of AIIMS in the state.

Expressing gratitude to the Union Minister for Urban Development and Housing and Mr. M Venkiah Naidu for including the holy city of Amritsar under HRIDAY scheme, the Chief Minister said that it was a befitting tribute to Guru RamdassJi, the founder of this holy city. He also mentioned that several cities and towns have been founded by eminent personalities from different walks of life but there were only few prominent cities/ towns founded by great Sikh Gurus like Sri Kartarpur Sahib (now in Pakistan) by first Guru Sri Guru Nanak DevJi, Sri Anandpur Sahib by ninth Sikh Guru Sri TegBahadurJi and Sri Kiratpur Sahib by Sri Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji and many others.

Nullifying the false propaganda unleashed by the opposition that the NDA government has ignored the interests of SAD-BJP alliance government in the state, the Chief Minister said that it was BJP led NDA government at centre, which has sanctioned major road projects worth Rs 19000 crore for the state. He negated the claim of the Congress party about the bleak chances of truckloads of money to be sent in Punjab, when the NDA was voted to power at centre, he said that if the entire amount sanctioned for road sector alone was converted into currency then it would be difficult to carry it in even ‘two full truckloads’.

Speaking on the occasion the Union Finance Minister Mr. ArunJaitley said that the SAD-BJP alliance was not merely a political alliance but actually a social alliance aimed at strengthening the bonds of peace, communal harmony, amity and brotherhood in the state. Highly appreciating the leadership qualities of the Chief Minister, he said that Mr. Badal was not only a towering personality in Indian polity but also a great guide and philosopher especially to him.  Mr. Jaitley also highly complemented the resilient Punjabis for their hard work, who had played a pro-active role in the overall development of the country in every field be it agriculture industry and academics.

The Union Finance Minister said that Punjab being a cradle of Indian civilization was all set to lead the country in the arena of agriculture and defence for which it was aptly known as the sword arm and granary of the nation. He said that the GoI has made budgetary allocation of Rs 50000 crore for the national irrigation network in the country from which Punjab would be immensely benefitted. Mr. Jaitley said that Punjab would soon emerge as a role model for the other states in the country to have the best four/ six laned road network despite a smaller state as compared to other ones where one could safely reach from one end to another just within shortest time period. He also assured Mr. Badal that a practical crop insurance scheme for farmers would be in place soon as the modalities in this regard had already been finalized and the farmers would get the compensation at their doorsteps without any inordinate delay or undue harassment.

Divulging the details of HRIDAY (Heritage City Development and Augmentation Yojna) scheme, the Union Urban Development Minister Mr. M Venkiah Naidu said that the holy city of Amritsar has been selected for this prestigious scheme at a cost of Rs 68.45 crore. He also announced that 16 towns/ cities of the state,namely Ludhiana, Amritsar, Jalandhar, Patiala, Bathinda, Hoshiarpur, Batala, Moga, Pathankot, SAS Nagar, Abohar, Malerkotla, Khanna, Ferozepur, Muktsar and Barnala, have been selected under his Ministry’s ambitious AMRUT (Atal Mission for Rejuvenation and Urban Transformation) aimed at addressing the urbanization issue and provide better facilities to the people.

In his address the Deputy Chief Minister MrSukhbir  SinghBadalurged the Union Finance Minister to resume the flights from international airport Amritsar to across the globe so as to facilitate the NRI brethren to stay in touch with their motherland.  Likewise, he also sought the personal intervention of Mr. Jaitley for flagging up the issue for granting permission to set up domestic air terminals at Adampur and Halwara Air force terminals.  Mr. SukhbirSingh Badalalso impressed upon the Union Finance Minister to take up the issue of bringing the list of items exported from ICP Attariat par with those exported from Mumbai to Karachi via sea route,  so as to usher an era of unprecedented development in the state. 

Thanking MrJaitley for allocating several prestigious projects for the state, the Deputy Chief Minister said that the Congress deprived the state of its due share in developmental projects but now from the very first day after assuming his office the Union Finance Minister has given several key projects for the state.  He said that it was unfortunate that though the previous PM of the country not only hailed from the state but from this holy however he didn't bother to sanction any major project to it and on the other hand MrJaitley had given key projects to state that would be instrumental in giving boost to its economy.  MrSukhbir Singh Badalsaid that the Union Finance Minister has assured him that he would get all the development projects and schemes stuck up at different quarters in GoI cleared through his personal intervention.

Lashing out at former Chief Minister Captain AmarinderSingh, the deputy Chief Minister said that the royal scion of Patiala had never bothered about the issues and problems confronted by common man and has distanced himself from masses after having been elected as MP from Amritsar.  MrSukhbir Singh Badalsaid that dismal performance of captain as MLA and MP was a testimony to the fact that he hardly feel any need to meet people. He said that on the other hand the Punjab Chief Minister MrParkashSingh Badalhas dedicated his entire life for the wellbeing of the common man by organizing SangatDarshan programs to redress their grievances at their door steps. 

Listing the achievements of SAD-BJP alliance government,  theDeputy Chief Minister said that due to concerted efforts of the state government Punjab was today a power surplus state. He said that complete transformation of the state has taken place during the alliance government.  MrSukhbir Singh Badalsaid that the state government was making stupendous efforts to ensure overall development of the rural and urban areas of the state for which a major scheme has been embarked at a cost of nearly Rs 4000 crore.

In his address, the Revenue Minister MrBikram Singh Majithiahailed the Union Finance Minister MrArunjaitley for generously allotting key projects like IIM, AIIMS and others to the state.  He said that it was for the first time in the history of state that union government has kept budgetary provisions to ensure overall development of the state.  He hoped that this was just the beginning of a golden chapter which would be scripted by MrJaitleyby allocating more such key projects to the state.  MrMajithia urged the Union Finance Minister to extend the eastern freight corridor to Attari in order to boosttrade and commerce activity in the state.

In his address state BJP president Mr Kamal Sharma said that both the center and state government must work in harmony to hasten the pace of development in the state. He said that the unparalleled development in the state during the tenure of just one year of NDA rule has stunned the opposition and the day was not very far off when Punjab would be a frontrunner state in the country.

On the occasion, the Chief Minister, accompanied by Deputy Chief Minister and Union Food Processing Minister Mrs. HarsimratKaurBadal, along with Mr. Jaitley, Mr. Naidu and other dignitaries digitally laid the foundation HRIDAY Yojna for holy city and four laning of Ganga Nagar-Ferozepur-Amritsar national highway at a cost of Rs 1100 crore.

Earlier the Chief Minister along with Mr. ArunJaitley visited the meritorious school the brainchild of Mr. Badal to impart quality education to the economically poor and bright students. He felicitated the top five students of the schools each with a cash prize of Rs 10000. Later in the evening Mr. Badal and Union Finance Minister inaugurated the newly constructed Drug de-addiction and rehabilitation centre to enable the drug addicts to lead a life with dignity and honor.   

Prominent amongst other present on the occasion included Union Ministers MrsHarsimratKaurBadal and Mr Vijay Sampla,  LokSabha MP JathedarRanjit Singh Brahmpura, Cabinet Ministers Mr Anil Joshi,  MrParminder Singh Dhindsa, Dr DS Cheema and MrGulzar Singh Ranike,  Chief Parliamentary Secretaries Mr KD Bhandari, MrAmarpal Singh Bonny,  Prof Virsa Singh Valtoha,  MrInderbir Singh Bolaria, Mr Des Raj Dhugga,  Mr GS Babbehali and MrSomParkash,  Media advisor to Chief Minister MrHarcharanBains, Media Advisor to Deputy Chief Minister MrJangveerSingh, Advisor to Chief Minister MrTikshanSud,  MLAs ManoranjanKalia,  BibiJagirKaur,  MrManjitSingh Mianwindand MrBaljeetSingh JalaalUsma,  former Ministers JathedarSucha Singh langah, MrNirmalSingh Kahlonand Prof laxmiKantaChawla, National General Secretary of BJP MrTarunChugh, Vice Chairman Punjab State Planning Board Mr. RajinderBhandari, Chief Secretary Mr. SarveshKaushal, Special Principal Secretary to Chief Minister Mr. KJS Cheema and Director Information and Public Relations Mr. Rahul Tiwari.

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Jaitley calls students to achieve target of excellence

Badal stresses upon the need of quality and purposeful education

 Amritsar, July 14: Union Finance Minister Mr. Arun Jaitley today exhorted students to achieve academic excellence and contribute in the nation's growth to make India a developed country.

Delivering his speech at the 108th convocation of 123 year old Khalsa College, Amritsar in the presence of Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal, Mr. Jaitley motivated the students to proceed with the motto of 'excellence' in their academic career to become a partner in the growth of the nation. 

Emphasizing on the need to impart quality education, Mr. Jaitley said India now had a 35 crore strong middle class and had also witnessed an unprecedented increase in service sector in recent years. He said the service sector was in need of professional and skilled manpower, which could be provided through quality education.

Focusing on the possibilities of religio-cultural tourism in Punjab, Mr. Jaitley said the holy city Amritsar had great potential in this field. He said Punjab had achieved a lot in agriculture, tourism, infrastructure and education and could explore more new avenues of growth. 

Lauding Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal for maintaining social harmony in the state, the Finance Minister said Mr. Badal had emerged as pillar of social concord in the country. He said Mr. Badal's personality was much taller than the Padma Vibhushan bestowed upon him recently since his contribution for the state as well as country was peerless.

Meanwhile, addressing the students, Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal said in this global competitive era, educational institutions should give stress on quality and purposeful education so that students could compete globally. He said Punjab had introduced the unique concept of meritorious schools for needy students having 80 percent marks in their matriculation. He said that during the last seven years Punjab had created exemplary infrastructure in the education sector and secured No. 1 position in the country.  He said the state had also taken the lead by achieving 8 percent growth in the education sector and 20 percent in teaching faculty.

Apprising Finance Minister about the present edu-scenario in the state, Mr. Badal said Punjab had setup 11 universities and prestigious institutes in the state including Indian School of Business at Mohali and IIT Ropar. He also requested Finance Minister to visit the state once in a month to look into the development issues. Mr. Badal also announced Rs. 50 lakh discretionary grant for the Khalsa College.

Meanwhile, Mr. Jaitley, Mr. Badal accompanied by Union Food Processing Industries Minister Mrs. Harsimrat Kaur Badal and Union Minister of State for Social Justice and Empowerment Mr. Vijay Sampla conferred degrees to the 226 meritorious and pass outs student of Khalsa College.

Prominent amongst those present on the occasion Member Parliament Mr. Ranjit Singh Brahmpura, Punjab Revenue Minister Mr. Bikram Singh Majithia, Punjab BJP Chief Mr. Kamal Sharma, Mr. Som Parkash, Mr. Virsa Singh Valtoha and Mr. Amarpal Singh Bonny Ajnala (all Chief Parliamentary Secretaries), Political Advisor to CM Mr. Tikshan Sud, Mr. Satyajit Singh Majithia, Chairman Governing Council, Mr. Rajinder Mohan Singh Chinna Honorary Secretary, Mr. Raj Mohinder Singh Majitha Vice Chancellor and Principal Dr. Mehal Singh.

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Public Participation is necessary for prevention of Dengue: HM

Chandigarh, 14 July

           Health Minister Punjab, Surjit Kumar Jyani has given directions to all the Civil Surgeons of the State for preparedness as the transmission season of dengue has started. It was informed that testing of dengue is done free of cost at 20 centres in the State and kits were available with the department for this. All the laboratories in the Government Hospitals were equipped to conduct testing. Department is spreading awareness in the public in order to prevent the breeding of the mosquitoes. Rallies and sensitization workshops are being held in each town of the State.

          Vini Mahajan, Principal Secretary, Department of Health & Family Welfare Stated that Health Department has established Dengue wards with mosquito nets in the Government Hospitals for suspected dengue cases and confirmed cases of dengue will be given supportive treatment in the form of antipyretics and intravenous fluids free of cost.

          Vini Mahajan informed that the mosquito responsible for spread of dengue bites only during daytime and it breeds only in collections of water inside or surrounding the homes. Dengue can be prevented if people cooperate in cleaning the coolers, water tanks, water collections, trays of refrigerators etc. at least once a week. Health Minister stated that the department of Health is committed for prevention and treatment of the dengue but people should come forward and be involved in eliminating the breeding places of mosquitoes in order to prevent dengue.

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I WILL BE THE GUARANTOR OF PEACE AND COMMUNAL HARMONY IN PUNJAB TILL MY LAST BREATH-BADAL

·       SHIFTING OF SIKH PRISONERS TO PUNJAB POSES NO THREAT TO PEACE 

·        ATTRIBUTES COMMITMENT AND SINCERITY TOWARDS PARTY FOR BEING ELEVATED CM FOR FIVE TERMS

·        DECLARES SAD-BJP ALLIANCE TO CONTEST 2017 ASSEMBLY ELECTIONS JOINTLY

·        ASKS MEDIA TO PLAY A CONSTRUCTIVE ROLE IN HIGHLIGHTING DEVELOPMENT ACTIVITIES

·        URGES NEWSPAPERS TO DEVOUT EXCLUSIVE COVERAGE TO RURAL SECTOR  

·        CM ANNOUNCES GRANT OF Rs. 25 LAC TO THE CHANDIGARH PRESS CLUB

·        ASSURES MEDIA FRATERNITY TO RESOLVE THEIR ISSUES ON PRIORITY

Chandigarh, July 12: Reiterating his firm commitment to make Punjab an ocean of tranquility, amity and brotherhood, Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today said that he would be the guarantor of peace and communal harmony in the state till his last breath.

Addressing the members of the Chandigarh Press Club on its 35th Foundation day, the Chief Minister said that maintaining peace, communal harmony and amity was the highest priority of his government and he has ever respected these ethos with all sincerity and commitment and were the real foundation to ensure overall development of the state and welfare of its people.

Justifying the credentials of Shiromani Akali Dal as a secular party in the Indian polity, the Chief Minister mentioned that Nine Hindu candidates, One Muslim besides 22 Scheduled Castes got elected on its party ticket during the last assembly elections.

On another issue, Mr. Badal categorically said that shifting of Sikh prisoners Davinder Pal Singh Bhullar and Gurdeep Singh Khaira to the State didn’t pose any threat to peace in Punjab. He said the state government followed the entire procedure laid down by the Government of India within the ambit of law of the land, that too with the prior consent of Ministry of Home Affairs, GoI. He said unnecessary clamor and apprehensions in the wake of threat perception to the hard earned peace in the state was absolutely ‘out of context’ and beyond anyone’s comprehension. He asked the media persons to keep a restrain while reporting such sensitive issues and impressed upon them not to create unwarranted media hype in this regard rather they should play a constructive role within the ethics of objectivity, fairness, truth and without any bias. Mr. Badal said, “Any deviation from the path of balanced and objective reporting on the part of journalists tends to create an atmosphere of uncertainty and chaos in the society which must be avoided otherwise it erodes their credibility and faith of people, as they believe the Press next to the God”.

Dispelling the apprehensions about the so-called SAD-BJP strained relations, the Chief Minister clearly said their relations were absolutely cordial and its alliance was ever lasting. He even said that there was no question of parting ways with them and declared that both the SAD and BJP would jointly contest the next assembly elections in 2017. Ruling out any electoral challenge from the Congress and AAP party, the Chief Minister said, “None could foresee the election results but on the basis of superb performance of SAD-BJP alliance in the state, he is hopeful of their bright prospects too during the 2017 state assembly poll”.

Asked to reveal the predominant factors for his longest tenure as the Chief Minister of Punjab for five terms, Mr. Badal attributed this solely to the grace of the Almighty, adding the Chief Minister said he was overwhelmed by the unbounded love and affection showered upon him by the people of the state. He said sincerity towards party coupled with utmost honesty and dedication were the redeeming factors to adore a humble person like him with such coveted office of Chief Minister. 

Urging the media persons to highlight the major developmental activities and welfare schemes, the Chief Minister said he has even requested the editors of the national and regional newspapers to exclusively dedicate at least one or two pages to highlight the problems and redressal of their issues related to the rural folk especially the agriculture, education and health scenario rural sector. He said ‘development journalism’ must be given precedence over other subjects. Mr. Badal said that the unhealthy practice of sensationalizing the news must be abandoned forthwith otherwise it would create a sense of despair and dejection amongst the masses. He impressed upon the media persons to give adequate space to some path breaking initiatives like meritorious schools, Maharaja Ranjit Singh and Mai Bhago Preparatory Academies of Armed Forces for boys and girls respectively, which deserved wide appreciation from all quarters in the society especially from the media.

Earlier, responding to the demands of the media fraternity put forth by the President of Chandigarh Press Club Mr. Balwinder S. Jammu for announcing monthly pension, cashless hospitalization, enhancing free travel facility in all categories of buses of the state roadways and fixing quota for the journalists while allotting plots/apartments in housing schemes/projects of the state government, Mr. Badal asked the Director, Information & Public Relations to chalk out the modalities with the members of the Press Club before taking a final decision in this regard. The Chief Minister also suggested to create a dedicated fund for the welfare of the journalists on the lines of ‘Advocate’s Welfare Fund’, where the state government would also contribute its shares equivalent to the contribution made by the journalists. On the occasion, the Chief Minister announced that grant of Rs. 25 lac to the press club.

The Chief Minister was accompanied by his Advisor on National Affairs and Media Mr. Harcharan Bains.

Meanwhile, the President Mr. Balwinder S. Jammu and Secretary Mr. Nalin Acharaya conducted the proceedings of the program.

Prominent amongst others who were present on the occasion included Media Advisor to Deputy Chief Minister Mr. Jangveer Singh and Director, Information & Public Relations Mr. Rahul Tewari.

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 PRTC IS ALL SET TO LAUNCH THE COST-EFFECTIVE 'ONE DAY SAVING CARD' FOR ITS ORDINARY BUSES

 Chandigarh, July 12:

          The Pepsu Road Transport Corporation (PRTC) is all set to launch the cost-effective 'One Day saving Card' for its ordinary buses. Disclosing this here today a spokesman of the Transport Department said that card costing Rs.330 would allow a passenger to travel 500 km in a day on any given route. It would also allow the passenger to take multiple buses.

          At present, a passenger has to shell out Rs.450 to travel 500 km on an ordinary PRTC bus. He said the saving card would help commuters save Rs.120. It would also save commuters' time as they often have to stand in queues on certain routes before barding a bus, added the spokesman.

          The spokesman said the corporation would also launch trip-based monthly passes for ordinary buses, which would cut travelling cost by 50 percent. Earlier, such passes were available only for students or Punjab Police employees.

          The spokesman said a passenger in the future would only have to pay for 30 one-way trips even if he undertook 60 one-way trips. On Patiala-Chandigarh route, commuters would have to pay for 40 one-way trips to go on 60 one-way trips.  For instance, the PRTC charges Rs.70 for a one-way trip to Chandigarh.  Under the new scheme, a commuter would pay Rs.2,800 instead of Rs.4,200 to make 30 round-trips from Patiala to Chandigarh in a month.

CM CONDOLES SAD DEMISE OF NOTED POET SARDAR ANJUM

 Chandigarh, July 10-

Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today expressed profound grief and sorrow over the sad demise of the legendary Poet Sardar Anjum who passed away at a private hospital in Mohali on Thursday after a prolonged illness. 

In a condolence message, the Chief Minister described Sardar Anjum as a “great poet who made an outstanding contribution for the cementing the bond of communal harmony and brotherhood in the society through his pen”. Recalling the literary services of Sardar Anjum, Mr. Badal said that he was an imminent Urdu, Hindi and Punjabi litterateur who would ever inspire the budding artistes through his prolific writings. Lauding the fine qualities of head and heart in Sardar Anjum, he said that these qualities made him an equally excellent poet in the three languages of Urdu, Punjabi and Hindi.

The Chief Minister said that in the death of the renowned poet Sardar Anjum a void had been created in literary circles which was difficult to be filled in the near future. He further said that Sardar Anjum’s services for strengthening the ethos of communal harmony, peace and brotherhood through the medium of poetry would be ever remembered by one and all. “We have lost an illustrious son of the soil who had left an indelible imprint in the highly creative field of poetry” added Mr. Badal.

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

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 RAJESH BAGHA MEETS JIYANI REGARDING FORCIBLE CONVERSION OF RAVIDASIA SIKH

·        HEALTH DEPARTMENT ALSO INSTRUCTED TO LAUNCH AWARENESS CAMPAIGN AGAINST QUACKS

Chandigarh, July 10:

 The Chairman of Punjab State Scheduled Castes Commission Mr. Rajesh Bagha met Health Minister Mr. Surjit Kumar Jiyani and discussed the issue of forcible conversion of a Ravidasia Sikh to Muslim faith.

He also stressed upon the Minister to instruct the Health Department to launch an awareness campaign regarding prevention of diseases and against unregistered quacks. Mr. Bagha said that the unregistered quacks play with the health of the people and are often not registered with the Health Department and the department also doesn’t has any record of the medicines being prescribed/sold by these quacks. He said that strict action should be initiated against such quacks because they endanger the lives of people especially living in rural and backward areas. He suggested that non-government and religious organizations should also be made part of this awareness campaign.

The Minister assured Mr. Bagha that proper investigation would be conducted about the activities of unregistered quacks by the Health Department and if any person, other than properly registered and qualified, is found treating people then strong action would be taken against him. The Minister also informed Mr. Bagha that instructions have been issued to the Health Department to launch the awareness campaign.

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 PUNJAB EXTENDS TIME LIMIT TO REGISTER CONVEYANCE DEEDS ON ALLOTMENT RATES FOR TWO MONTHS

Chandigarh, July 10: The Punjab government has extended the time frame for two months for all those allottees’ of immoveable properties (plots/houses etc) by the government or a public sector undertaking or local bodies to get their conveyance deeds registered at rates mentioned in their allotment letters. It may be mentioned here that number of such allottees’ have already taken benefit of this decision and keeping in view the demand for extending this concession, this decision has been taken. Earlier, the allottees’ were required to get conveyance deed executed on collector rate that was linked to present market rate of property.

Disclosing this, Mr. Bikram Singh Majithia , Revenue Minister informed that after considering the demand of allotees’  a decision was taken by Punjab CM Mr. Parkash Sigh Badal and on his directions required notification in this regard had been issued by the state Revenue department. He said that this benefit was being extended at the time of execution of first conveyance deed of such property to all those allottees, who have taken the possession of their properties after depositing their all installments. He clarified that this concession has now been extended for two months i.e between 30th June to 28th August, 2015. He urged all such allotees to get registered first conveyance deed of their properties. It is also clarified that in case of any court case this concession would be considered from the time of court decision or direction.

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ALL SCHOOLS DIRECTED TO RECRUIT 10% EXTRA TRAINED DRIVERS AND CONDUCTOR AS RELIEVERS

·        COMMISSION ASKED FOR FORCEFUL IMPLEMENTATION OF “SAFE VAHAN SCHEME”

Chandigarh July 10: The Punjab State Commission for Protection of Child Rights today issued directions to all private and government schools in the state of Punjab to recruit 10% extra trained drivers and conductors for school buses who can work  during the leave period of drivers and conductors.

Taking a strong view of untrained drivers and conductors plying school buses during the leave period of drivers and conductors, Mr. Sukesh Kalia , Commission observed that the lives of lakhs of innocent school children can not be allowed to be put in danger by handing over buses to untrained drivers. Directing to adopt an institutionalized standard operating procedure for such eventualities, the Commission directed that each school must have 10% additional drivers and conductors who would take the charge of school bus during the leave period of driver and conductor and school would ensure that relievers fulfill all qualification laid down by Supreme Court of India for school buses.

Giving directions to the District Transport Officers and District Education Officers of the state, Chairman Mr. Kalia directed them to ensure the professional credentials of the candidates before recruiting them for the buses. They should be having a valid driving license besides having an experience certificate of handling heavy vehicles. He also asked the authorities to ensure that the guidelines of the Supreme Court of India are not flouted under the ‘Safe Vahan Scheme.’

The Chairman also said that during one of the school bus accident case examination by the Commission, it was noticed that the unfortunate accident accrued when the bus was being driven by an untrained person engaged during the leave of the regular bus driver.

The Chairman also directed the District Transport Officers and District Education Officers to comply with the directive of the Supreme Court to ensure safety of the school children. He has asked them to send the compliance report to the Commission within 15 days.

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 PCS (JB) MAIN EXAMINATION FROM AUGUST 7

Chandigarh, July 10:

            The Punjab and Haryana High Court has issued the date sheet of PCS (JB) Main Examination 2014-15. In accordance with the date sheet, 5 papers would be conducted from August 7 to 9, 2015. As per the Date Sheet, Civil Law-1 examination would be held on August 7 and Civil Law-2 and English exams would be held on August 8, 2015. Similarly, Criminal Law and Punjabi Language papers have been scheduled for August 9.

            An official spokesman said that the Candidates should keep checking the website of Punjab Public Service Commission (PPSC) for important conditions and instructions. The spokesman further informed that the admits cards would be issued by PPSC in due course.

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LABOUR DEPARTMENT DECLARES RESULT OF DEPARTMENTAL EXAMINATION

7 DECLARED SUCCESSFUL

Chandigarh, July 10:

The Labour Department, Punjab, has declared the result of the departmental examination of Labour Inspectors.

Disclosing this, a spokesperson of the department said that Kewal Krishan, Jagpreet Singh, Hardev Singh, Jasbir Singh, Mrs. Avinash, Balwinder Singh and Mrs. Paramjit (All Labour Inspectors Grade-1) have been declared successful.

PUNJAB TO EXTEND EDUCATION LOAN TO GIRL STUDENTS AT 3.5% RATE OF INTEREST

(BACKFINCO IMPARTS VOCATIONAL TRAINING TO 931 CANDIDATES)

Chandigarh July 10: Aiming to encourage girl students for getting higher academic credentials, the Punjab government through Punjab Backward Classes Land Development and Finance Corporation (BACKFINCO) will provide education loan to them at 3.5% interest pet annum.
Giving details of the scheme launched mainly for the girl students of weaker sections, the Chairman of BACKFINCO, Mr. Om Parkash Kamboj said the new education scheme aimed at providing an opportunity to the girls of backward classes to get higher education with a view to raise their socio-academic status.
The newly appointed Chairman Mr. Kamboj further said girls from backward classes and residents of Punjab are eligible to get the education loan. "Concerned district field officers of BACKFINCO have been instructed to forward the case of the eligible students so as to complete the formalities in time", he informed.
Adding further he said that to make girls self reliant, the state would provide Rs. 10 lakh as loan to the girls for imparting training in technical and vocational course whereas Rs. 20 Lakh loan to be provided to them for getting such training oversees.
It may be mentioned here that according to the latest census in Punjab, 12% population belonging to backward classes has been provided direct loan ranging from Rs.50,000 to 1 lakh to start their own venture. Mr Kamboj revealed that a massive campaign throughrout the State would also be launched by BACKFINCO to generate awareness among youth in the next month. He said during the last fiscal as many as 931 candidates were imparted vocational training

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WORLD POPULATION DAY

PUNJAB GOVERNMENT TO OBSERVE WORLD POPULATION DAY

·         FAMILY PLANNING& MOTHER AND CHILD HEALTH AMONGST TOP PRIORITIES

Chandigarh, July 10:

The Punjab Government will observe world population day on 11th July and undertake such activities focused on issues related directly or indirectly to the health of all especially mother and child.

According to a spokesperson of the Health Department, this year the theme is “Khushhal parivar ka mantar, do bachhon mein teen saal ka antar”.  The theme apart from conveying a message for restricting the size of family, pointed out the important dimension of Maternal and Child Health. He said that the State Government would launch an awareness campaign to guide eligible couples about various aspects associated to health such as-family planning to avoid repeated pregnancies which have a detrimental effect on the health of mother as well as the child.

Divulging more details, the spokesperson said that Health and Family Welfare Department conducts vasectomy and tubectomy operations free of cost at Primary Health Centers and Community Health Centers. The Department would also conduct the special awareness camp on family planning and also provide counseling to the couples for the purpose of temporary family planning methods. The department would provide free of cost oral pills, Copper-T and Condoms.

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I WILL BE THE GUARANTOR OF PEACE AND COMMUNAL HARMONY IN PUNJAB TILL MY LAST BREATH-BADAL

·       SHIFTING OF SIKH PRISONERS TO PUNJAB POSES NO THREAT TO PEACE 

·        ATTRIBUTES COMMITMENT AND SINCERITY TOWARDS PARTY FOR BEING ELEVATED CM FOR FIVE TERMS

·        DECLARES SAD-BJP ALLIANCE TO CONTEST 2017 ASSEMBLY ELECTIONS JOINTLY

·        ASKS MEDIA TO PLAY A CONSTRUCTIVE ROLE IN HIGHLIGHTING DEVELOPMENT ACTIVITIES

·        URGES NEWSPAPERS TO DEVOUT EXCLUSIVE COVERAGE TO RURAL SECTOR  

·        CM ANNOUNCES GRANT OF Rs. 25 LAC TO THE CHANDIGARH PRESS CLUB

·        ASSURES MEDIA FRATERNITY TO RESOLVE THEIR ISSUES ON PRIORITY

Chandigarh, July 12: Reiterating his firm commitment to make Punjab an ocean of tranquility, amity and brotherhood, Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today said that he would be the guarantor of peace and communal harmony in the state till his last breath.

Addressing the members of the Chandigarh Press Club on its 35th Foundation day, the Chief Minister said that maintaining peace, communal harmony and amity was the highest priority of his government and he has ever respected these ethos with all sincerity and commitment and were the real foundation to ensure overall development of the state and welfare of its people.

Justifying the credentials of Shiromani Akali Dal as a secular party in the Indian polity, the Chief Minister mentioned that Nine Hindu candidates, One Muslim besides 22 Scheduled Castes got elected on its party ticket during the last assembly elections.

On another issue, Mr. Badal categorically said that shifting of Sikh prisoners Davinder Pal Singh Bhullar and Gurdeep Singh Khaira to the State didn’t pose any threat to peace in Punjab. He said the state government followed the entire procedure laid down by the Government of India within the ambit of law of the land, that too with the prior consent of Ministry of Home Affairs, GoI. He said unnecessary clamor and apprehensions in the wake of threat perception to the hard earned peace in the state was absolutely ‘out of context’ and beyond anyone’s comprehension. He asked the media persons to keep a restrain while reporting such sensitive issues and impressed upon them not to create unwarranted media hype in this regard rather they should play a constructive role within the ethics of objectivity, fairness, truth and without any bias. Mr. Badal said, “Any deviation from the path of balanced and objective reporting on the part of journalists tends to create an atmosphere of uncertainty and chaos in the society which must be avoided otherwise it erodes their credibility and faith of people, as they believe the Press next to the God”.

Dispelling the apprehensions about the so-called SAD-BJP strained relations, the Chief Minister clearly said their relations were absolutely cordial and its alliance was ever lasting. He even said that there was no question of parting ways with them and declared that both the SAD and BJP would jointly contest the next assembly elections in 2017. Ruling out any electoral challenge from the Congress and AAP party, the Chief Minister said, “None could foresee the election results but on the basis of superb performance of SAD-BJP alliance in the state, he is hopeful of their bright prospects too during the 2017 state assembly poll”.

Asked to reveal the predominant factors for his longest tenure as the Chief Minister of Punjab for five terms, Mr. Badal attributed this solely to the grace of the Almighty, adding the Chief Minister said he was overwhelmed by the unbounded love and affection showered upon him by the people of the state. He said sincerity towards party coupled with utmost honesty and dedication were the redeeming factors to adore a humble person like him with such coveted office of Chief Minister. 

Urging the media persons to highlight the major developmental activities and welfare schemes, the Chief Minister said he has even requested the editors of the national and regional newspapers to exclusively dedicate at least one or two pages to highlight the problems and redressal of their issues related to the rural folk especially the agriculture, education and health scenario rural sector. He said ‘development journalism’ must be given precedence over other subjects. Mr. Badal said that the unhealthy practice of sensationalizing the news must be abandoned forthwith otherwise it would create a sense of despair and dejection amongst the masses. He impressed upon the media persons to give adequate space to some path breaking initiatives like meritorious schools, Maharaja Ranjit Singh and Mai Bhago Preparatory Academies of Armed Forces for boys and girls respectively, which deserved wide appreciation from all quarters in the society especially from the media.

Earlier, responding to the demands of the media fraternity put forth by the President of Chandigarh Press Club Mr. Balwinder S. Jammu for announcing monthly pension, cashless hospitalization, enhancing free travel facility in all categories of buses of the state roadways and fixing quota for the journalists while allotting plots/apartments in housing schemes/projects of the state government, Mr. Badal asked the Director, Information & Public Relations to chalk out the modalities with the members of the Press Club before taking a final decision in this regard. The Chief Minister also suggested to create a dedicated fund for the welfare of the journalists on the lines of ‘Advocate’s Welfare Fund’, where the state government would also contribute its shares equivalent to the contribution made by the journalists. On the occasion, the Chief Minister announced that grant of Rs. 25 lac to the press club.

The Chief Minister was accompanied by his Advisor on National Affairs and Media Mr. Harcharan Bains.

Meanwhile, the President Mr. Balwinder S. Jammu and Secretary Mr. Nalin Acharaya conducted the proceedings of the program.

Prominent amongst others who were present on the occasion included Media Advisor to Deputy Chief Minister Mr. Jangveer Singh and Director, Information & Public Relations Mr. Rahul Tewari.

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 RTC IS ALL SET TO LAUNCH THE COST-EFFECTIVE 'ONE DAY SAVING CARD' FOR ITS ORDINARY BUSES

 handigarh, July 12:

          The Pepsu Road Transport Corporation (PRTC) is all set to launch the cost-effective 'One Day saving Card' for its ordinary buses. Disclosing this here today a spokesman of the Transport Department said that card costing Rs.330 would allow a passenger to travel 500 km in a day on any given route. It would also allow the passenger to take multiple buses.

          At present, a passenger has to shell out Rs.450 to travel 500 km on an ordinary PRTC bus. He said the saving card would help commuters save Rs.120. It would also save commuters' time as they often have to stand in queues on certain routes before barding a bus, added the spokesman.

          The spokesman said the corporation would also launch trip-based monthly passes for ordinary buses, which would cut travelling cost by 50 percent. Earlier, such passes were available only for students or Punjab Police employees.

          The spokesman said a passenger in the future would only have to pay for 30 one-way trips even if he undertook 60 one-way trips. On Patiala-Chandigarh route, commuters would have to pay for 40 one-way trips to go on 60 one-way trips.  For instance, the PRTC charges Rs.70 for a one-way trip to Chandigarh.  Under the new scheme, a commuter would pay Rs.2,800 instead of Rs.4,200 to make 30 round-trips from Patiala to Chandigarh in a month.

PUNJAB GOVERNMENT EXTENDS TIME LIMIT FOR GENERAL TRANSFERS TILL JULY 10

CHANDIGARH, JULY 8:

The Punjab Government today extended the time limit for the general transfers in the different departments till July 10, 2015.

Disclosing this here today an official spokesperson of the Punjab Government said that although the time limit has been extended till July 10, 2015 but the other terms of references would remain the same as has been issued on June 8, 2015 . He said that notification in this regard has been issued wherein Administrative Secretaries of the respective department has been made accountable for the implementation of these guidelines. 

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MANSA SHINES UNDER SUN, LEADS STATE WITH 64 MW SOLAR POWER GENERATIONS

·      MAJITHIA INAUGURATES TWO SOLAR POWER PROJECTS OF 3.10 MW CAPACITIES AT MIRPUR KALAN

·      MOSERBAER TO SET UP A 34 MW MEGA SOLAR POWER PROJECT AT MIRPUR KALAN

·      URGES PEOPLE TO BECOME PARTNER IN CLEAN ENERGY MISSION BY OPTING NET METERING

·      GOI AWARDS PUNJAB FOR BEST PERFORMING STATE IN SOLAR AS WELL AS BIOMASS ENERGY

·      NRIs SET UP 45 MW SOLAR POWER PLANTS WITH INVESTMENT OF RS. 245 CRORE

·      UNDERLINES THE NEED FOR LIBERAL FINANCING FROM FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS FOR RE PROJECTS

·      RE PROJECTS OF 334 MW CAPACITIES UNDER IMPLEMENTATION

Mirpur Kalan (Mansa), July 8: Mansa is shining under Sun as with 64 MW installed capacities of solar power; the district has emerged as the torch bearer on solar energy front in the state. Besides this, the world renowned company Moserbaer has also taken 150 acres of land on lease here for setting up a 34 MW Solar power project.

In a simple but in an impressive function held here today, the Punjab New & Renewable Energy Minister Mr. Bikram Singh Majithia along with Mr. Balwinder Singh Bhunder, MP, inaugurated two solar power projects of 2.10 MW and 1 MW set up by M/s. Alianz Eco Power Limited and M/s Nextgen Solux Power Private Limited at the cost of Rs. 15.50 crore and Rs. 8.00 crore respectively. Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Majithia said that the humble beginning started three years ago in renewable energy sector has now becomes a movement as the solar power generation has now touched 215 MW from just 9 MW with an investment of more than Rs. 1500 crore . 23 ground mounted solar projects of 229 MW capacity (Rs. 1600 Crore) and 4 solar roof top projects of 65 MW ( Rs. 300 crore) are under implementation.

Mr. Majithia pointed out that Mansa has emerged as number 1 district of the state on solar power front as four such projects having joint power generation capacity of 61 MW had been running successfully.

Mr. Majithia said that the path breaking initiatives of Punjab on RE front have not gone unnoticed as the Prime Minister has awarded Punjab as best performing state on RE front during REINVEST-2015 held in New Delhi and few days ago Renewable Energy Promotion Association (REPA) has awarded Punjab as the Best Bio-energy State of India with highest installed capacity of rural agro waste based – biomass energy conversion projects. Punjab has 62.5 MW capacities in biomass power generation.

Describing clean energy the need of hour, Mr. Majithia said that the state was taking the concept of clean and green living to every house by encouraging people to produce their own power through roof top projects and a unique Net Metering Policy 2014 has been notified. With concerted efforts of state government the IDBI bank has launched a new scheme “Surya Shakti” for financing such projects. Mr. Majithia said that it was high time for financial institutions to come forward with liberal credit policies required for RE projects so that our environment could be saved for our future generations.

Mr. Majithia said that under the dynamic leadership of Chief Minisiter Mr. Parkash Singh Badal and Deputy Chief Minister Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal even the Mansa and Bathinda districts have been attracting huge investments which were considered backward areas few years ago.  He said that keen interest of state farmers in solar power could be gauged from the fact that PEDA has recently got Expressions of Interest for 1200 MW against the initial estimates of 500 MW. He said that now two bids of 500 MW each for farmers and renowned companies are being floated and he was confident that these initiatives would change the future power scenario and solar power would become cheaper than thermal power. He said that the state farmers were now getting remunerative lease rates besides high rates even for non-fertile lands. He said that our government was also emphasizing on biomass energy with dual aim of enhancing the farmers’ income from agri-waste on one hand and saving the environment on the other thereby promoting clean and green energy in the state.

He also welcomed the NRIs for opting for solar power and informed that till date NRIs have invested Rs. 245 crore in five projects having joint power generation capacity of 45 MW. He said that number of other such projects by NRIs were under different stages of implementation.

Earlier, speaking on the occasion, Mr. Balwinder Singh Bhunder, Member Parliament, congratulated Mr. Majithia for bringing Mansa as the most happening district on solar power front in the country. He assured the Minister about full cooperation to the solar power developers. He also urged the farmers to come forward and opt for State government’s upcoming Farmers’ solar power projects policy to enhance their earnings on one hand and contribute in clean energy drive on the other. 

Mr. Yashpreet Singh Brar (M/s Nextgen Solux Power) said that the positive approach of the Punjab Government & the support of the Punjab Energy Development Agency have boosted their confidence and he alongwith his partner NRI Kanwaljit Singh Mangat would soon invest more in this sector. Representing NRI Jaspal Deol ( M/s Alianz Eco Power) in the function, Mr. Surinder Singh Sandhu, Director also shared his experience of setting up this  project and cooperation extended by state government in timely execution of the project.

Prominent amongst others who were present on the occasion included Mr. Prem Mittal, MLA, Mr. Jagdeep Singh Nakai, former CPS and  Dr. Amarpal Singh, CEO, PEDA.

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Boards and Corporations must ensure implementation of welfare schemes-Sukhbir Badal

(Ablowal takes over as Chairman Punjab Tourism Development Corporation)

(Aneja and Lopon assumes charges as vice chairmen of Punjab Agro Export Corporation)

(Om Parkash Kamboj takes over as vice chairman BANKFINCO)

 Chandigarh, July 8 – Punjab Deputy Chief Minister Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal today gave a call to chairpersons of all boards and corporations to ensure implementation of welfare schemes launched by state government at the ground level so that beneficiaries at grass root level could take benefits of these schemes.

Mr Badal gave these directions during installation ceremonies of Mr. Surjit Singh Ablowal as Chairman Punjab Tourism Development Corporation, Mr. Ashok Aneja and Bhagirath Singh Lopon as Chairmen of Punjab Agro Export Corporation and Om Parkash Kamboj as vice chairman of Punjab Backward Classes Land Development and Finance Corporation (BANKFINCO).

Deputy Chief Minister said the boards and corporations played vital role in providing self employment to people, thus, their heads should do all efforts to implement state welfare schemes in true spirit. He asked to all chairpersons and vice-chairpersons to launch a campaign to generate awareness of these schemes among the masses.

Prominent among others present on the occasion included Mr. Bikram Singh Majithia, Sharanjit Singh Dhillon, Jathedar Tota Singh, Ajit Singh Kohar, Surjit Singh Rakhra, Sikander Singh Maluka (all cabinet ministers), Chaudhary Nand Lal Chief Parliamentary Secretary, Bibi Jagir Kaur and Manpreet Singh Iyali (both MLAs), Diyal Singh Kolianwali, Sukhdarshan Singh Mrar and Barjinder Singh Brar Makhan (all chairmen) and Deepinder Singh Dhillon were present on the occasion. EOM

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Delegation of Bhartiya Valmeki Dharam Samaj calls on Deputy Chief Minister

 Chandigarh, July 8: A delegation of Bhartiya Valmeki Dhram Samaj today called on Punjab Deputy Chief Minister Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal to apprise him about demands pertaining to community.  

            The delegation led by its National President Mr. Ashwani Sahota, Dr. Dev Singh Advaiti and other office bearers accompanied by Advisor to Chief Minister Mr. Maheshinder Singh Grewal submitted  charter of demand to Deputy CM. They also sought strictest action against those uploading derogatory remarks against religious personalities on social media.

            Mr. Badal patiently heard the issues of organisation and assured that the Punjab Government will look into their issues after due consultations with all departments concerned.

            Prominent amongst those present in the meeting included Mr. Lalla Babu Dravid, Mr. Ramesh Samarpit, Mr. Rajinder Valmik, Mr. Raj Kumar Danav, Mr. Madan Lal Siraswal, Mr. Vijay Manav and office bearers of the organisation. 

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ROTATIONAL IRRIGATION PROGRAMME FOR KHARIF SEASON    ANNOUNCED

CHANDIGARH, JULY 08:

The Irrigation Department, Punjab has announced the Rotational Programme for irrigation for the Kharif Season through Canal water from            12-07-2015 to 19-07-2015. The channels of Sirhind Canal System would run on the priority basis from Bathinda Branch, Bist Doab, Sidhwan Branch, Abohar Branch and Patiala feeder respectively.

Disclosing this here today a spokesman of the irrigation department said that direct distributaries of Bhakra Main Line in group 'A' being in the channels of first preference will run to their indent and  balance water supplies available will be utilized in Ghaggar Branch and its off taking channels i.e Ghaggar Branch and Patiala Minor in Group 'B'  respectively.

The spokesman further said that all the direct distributaries of Sirhind Feeder in group 'A'  being in the First preference will run to their indent and balance water supplies available would be utilised in Abohar Branch off-taking from Sirhind Feeder and its distributaries/Minors in  Group 'B'.

The spokesman also said that the channels off taking from upper Bari Doab Canal i.e. Kasur Branch Lower, with its distributaries being in the channels of first preference would run to their indent and balance water supplies available would be utilized in Sabraon Branch, Lahore Branch, Main Branch Lower, with their distributaries respectively.

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SSP Khana gets additional charge of SSP FateHgarh Sahib

Chandigarh, July 08:

            The Punjab government has given Mr. Gurpreet Singh gill, SSP Khanna the additional charge of SSP Fatehgarh Sahib. The orders would be applicable with immediate effects. This has been disclosed by an official spokesperson of Home & Justice Department of Punjab Government.

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 PUNJAB GOVERNMENT TRANSFERS TWO PPS

 Chandigarh, JULY 08:

 The Punjab government today issued the transfer/ posting orders of two PPS.

Disclosing this here today a spokesperson of the Punjab Government said that Mr. Randhir Singh Uppal PPS Asstt. Commdt, 5th Bn,IRB, Amritsar  posted as Intelligence wing Punjab whereas Mr. Manjit Singh, PPS Asstt. Commdt, 2nd Bn,IRB, Sangrur  posted as Intelligence wing, Punjab.

        The Spokesman further said that besides this the transfer order of Modern Central Jail, Faridkot of Mr. Ajay Maluja has been cancelled

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BADAL OKAYS THREE MORE MERITORIOUS SCHOOLS FOR SANGRUR, FEROZEPUR AND GURDASPUR

·       Rs. 30 CRORE TO BE SPENT ON EACH SCHOOL

·       DECISION TAKEN AFTER HUGE RESPONSE TO MERITORIOUS SCHOOLS

Chandigarh, July 6

        Realizing the unprecedented success of the ‘Meritorious School’ model in the state, the Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today approved the setting of three more such schools at Sangrur, Ferozepur and Gurdaspur districts at a cost of Rs. 30 crore each to provide free quality education and hostel facilities for all the brilliant students of the government schools, who had scored 80% or above marks in the Matriculation examinations.

        This decision was taken by Mr. Badal during a meeting to review the progress of Meritorious Schools here at CMO this morning.

        While finalizing the design & layout of the upcoming schools, the Chief Minister said that the these schools would be established on the pattern of already existing seven such Meritorious Schools at Mohali, Patiala, Bathinda, Jalandhar, Amritsar, Ludhiana and Talwara (Hoshiarpur). These schools were not only imparting academic education but also providing coaching to students for the competition exams, communication skills etc. so as to compete at par with their peers from public and convent schools.

        Meanwhile, the Education Minister Dr. Daljit Singh Cheema informed the Chief Minister that there was an upsurge in the number of students aspiring to seek admission in these meritorious schools, which was evident from the fact that nearly 8400 students from various Government Schools across the state were eligible this year against 3500 of last year. He also told Mr. Badal that 3150 students have been admitted in seven meritorious schools, of which 1950 girls and 1200 boys.

        Prominent amongst who were present in the meeting, Principal Secretary to CM Mr. SK Sandhu, Special Principal Secretaries to CM Mr. KJS Cheema and Mr. Ajoy Sharma, Chief Architect Ms. Sapna.

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BADAL SANCTIONS RS.43 CRORE FOR THE COMPLETION OF ONGOING STPs ALONG GHAGGAR

• ASKS PSCM TO REGULARLY MONITOR THE PROGRESS OF STPs
• DIRECTS EXECUTING AGENCIES TO KEEP STRICT VIGIL ON THE QUALITY OF WORK
• ALLOT WORK TO REPUTED CONSTRUCTION COMPANIES WITHOUT ANY PREJUDICE OR FAVOUR
• WORK ON STPS IN SIRHIND TO BEGIN SOON

Chandigarh, July 6: Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Paraksh Singh Badal today asked the Finance department to immediately release Rs.43 crore to the Punjab Water Supply and Sewerage Board (PWSSB) for the timely completion of ongoing construction of Sewerage Treatment Plants (STPs) along with river Ghaggar in the state.

Reviewing the progress of the steps taken by the PWSSB and Punjab Pollution Control Board (PPCB) for the construction of STPs in the towns along the river Ghaggar, the Chief Minister sanctioned funds to the tune of Rs.43 crore for the completion of STPs and directed the Secretary Local government to ensure these were make operational at the earliest. Meanwhile, Secretary Local government Mr. Ashok Gupta apprised the Chief Minister that out of 21 towns on river Ghaggar, eight STPs in seven towns namely Zirakpur, Mohali, Banur, Patiala (two), Samana, Sardulgarh and Bhikhi have been installed and commissioned and five STPs in four towns viz Patran, Mandi Gobindgarh, Rajpura (two) and Moonak were under installation and likely to be completed by December 31, 2015. Apart from this, funds for the six STPs in five towns (Sunam, Longowal, Khanauri, Derabassi (two) and Lehragagga, have already been tied up and would be completed by March 31, 2016.

Besides, Mr. Gupta also informed that funds amounting to Rs.170 crore were to be tied up for six STPs in five towns (Sirhind, Bassi Pathana, Sangrur (two), Nabha and Sanur). He told Mr. Badal that the land for the installation of three STPs of 4, 5 and 2 MLD capacity was available and the work could be started soon. He assured that the tenders in this regard would be floated within a week. Responding to another issue regarding the installation of two STPs at Derabassi to be undertaken by Greater Mohali Area Development Authority (GMADA), Chief Administrator GMADA informed one STP was under construction and for second STP de-notification of land was required.

The Chief Minister asked his Principal Secretary Mr. S.K. Sandhu to regularly monitor the progress of the STPs along the river Ghaggar so that the executing agencies may not face any hardship on account of technical and financial aspect. He also directed all the agencies to keep a strict vigil on the quality of construction work besides allocating these works to the reputed construction companies on merit without any prejudice or favour adding he said the quality norms as per the stipulated guidelines must not be compromised in any case.

Prominent amongst other who were present in the meeting included Principal Secretary to Chief Minister Mr. S.K. Sandhu, Secretary Science, Technology and Environment Mr. K.A.P Sinha, Secretary Local Government Mr. Ashok Gupta, CEO PWSSB Mr. D.K. Tiwari, Special Principal Secretary to Chief Minister Mr. Ajoy Sharma, CA GMADA Mr. A.K. Sinha, MD PSIEC Mr. Amit Dhaka, Chairman PPCB Mr. Manjit Singh, Member Secretary PPCB Dr. Babu Ram, Chief Engineer Drainage Mr. Anil Sood, Chief Engineer Canals Mr. Sohan Singh Grewal and Engineer-in-Chief PWSSB Mr. B.K. Garg.

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PSEB AND SCERT TO WORK IN COHESION FOR ACADEMIC REFORMS: CHEEMA

·       EDUCATION MINISTER PRESIDES OVER THE MEETING OF CORE GROUP TO DELIBERATE POOR RESULT OF ENGLISH SUBJECT

SAS NAGAR MOHALI, JULY 6

Dr. Daljit Singh Cheema, Education Minister, Punjab with the senior officers and academician of Punjab School Education Board (PSEB) and SCERT to deliberate upon the academic reforms in the state.

While presiding the joint meeting of PSEB and SCERT Dr. Cheema said that both the wings should launch a campaign to bring about quality change in the academic scenario. He stressed that teachers should be given training with modern methodology using the up to date academic research module so as to equip them with the modern challenges being faced by the education field.

          Later in the day Dr. Cheema held another meeting with the recently formed core group to investigate the reasons behind the poor result of English subject. In this meeting Principal and English Lecturers of the DIET and in service training institute gave detailed presentation depicting the reasons of poor result of English subject. Dr Cheema has called another meeting of the core group on August 10 to deliberate upon the poor result of Punjabi, Hindi and Math subjects.

Prominent among others who were present in the meeting included Mr. C Roul, Principal Secretary, Mr. Pardeep Aggarwal, DGSE, Mr. Balbir Singh Dhol, DPI (SS), Mr. Gurdeep Singh, Special Secretary, Mrs.Tejinder Kaur Dhaliwal, Chairperson, PSEB, Mr. Sukhdev Singh Kahlon, Director, SCERT, Dr. Ginni Duggal, Deputy Director, SCERT.

BAGHA CALLS UPON NGOs TO PROVIDE COACHING TO POOR STUDENTS TO CRACK COMPETITIVE EXAMS

Chandigarh, July 06:

The Chairman of Punjab Schedule Caste Commission Mr. Rajesh Bagha today called upon NGOs to come forward to provide quality education to poor students belonging to oppressed classes and provide them specialized coaching to enable them to crack All India Competitive examinations. He said that it was imperative to focus on this area as 30% youth of Punjab belong to Scheduled Caste

He said that Bhai Jaitajee Foundation (BJF) was playing a meaningful role in empowering EWS brilliant students of rural Punjab through quality education. BJF runs on the 'Daswandh' of family funds of its Managing Trustee S. Harpal Singh. Mr. Bagha said that with the collaboration of Punjab Government and Union Government, NGOs can play a great role by engaging the various institutions, corporate, religious leaders etc in this drive.

Mr. Bagha was informed that in last 2 years the Foundation has helped three students cracking IITJEE, three in IISER, one in IIIT and two in NIT. Besides that 9 students were supported to go to Indo Swiss Training Center Chandigarh for quality diplomas in Engineering. Last year the foundation in its Join Navodaya Schools Mission provided preparatory education to 800 students in 27 centers established in the Districts of Mohali and Faridkot. This helped 58 students getting into JNVs. This year 53 centers have been established for four month free coaching to 3100 class 5 students in the districts of Mohali, Muktsar, Faridkot, Ferozepur and Bathinda.

He appreciated that in Join Navodhaya Mission this year (2015) 1970 students were supported against 260 seats in JNVs. 158 students from BJF supported centers were selected.

He further said that to prepare the students for engineering and medical entrance exams, the Foundation has selected 32 class XI science students are being provided regular schooling from Chandigarh, coaching from highly competent teachers for the preparation to IIT JEE 2016 and AIPMT 2016.

Health minister raids canteens

JAYANI FOR IMPROVING HYGIENE IN THE SECRETARIAT CANTEENS

·  ASK THEM TO BECOME EXAMPLE OF SWACHH BHARAT CAMPAIGN

·  INSTRUCTS THE DEPARTMENT TO REGULARLY TAKE SAMPLES FROM ALL CANTEENS

Chandigarh July 6: Mr. Surjit Kumar Jayani, Health Minister Punjab today conducted surprise raids in the canteens of Punjab Civil Secretariat and expressed concern over lack of cleanliness and hygiene in all the three canteens serving food and snacks to thousands of employees and visitors daily.

 Mr. Jayani on receiving complaints regarding the unclean surroundings in the civil secretariat canteens, reached unannounced at the 10th floor canteen at about 2 pm where people were still having lunch. He was appalled at unclean surroundings especially in the chapatti making section and vegetables being cooked in old utensils. He was also not satisfied with the old plates in which employees were being served food.  He had lunch with employees and expressed satisfaction over taste of food. He issued direction that food inspectors would regularly take the samples of all the raw material and cooked food of all the canteens and submit him weekly report in this regard.

Asking the canteen staff to improve hygiene, cleanliness and surroundings in all the three canteens, Mr. Jayani said that the canteens of secretariat should be a telling example of cleanliness for whole state. He said that he would again inspect these canteens as he wants these canteens to be showcased as shining example of Swachh Bharat Abhiyan.

Minutely checking the hygienic conditions in the canteen, The Minister directed the supervisor of the canteens to ensure cleanliness while cooking and serving food to people. He inquired about the oil being used for cooking, He was told that the raw material was being purchased on daily basis and consumed on the same day. The Minister, however, pointed out the unclean and unhealthy way of cleaning the utensils. He directed the staff to ensure proper hygiene at the time of cleaning the utensils.

          Meanwhile, Mr. Jayani has directed the Food Inspectors to collect food samples especially the sweets like jalebi and burfis and send these samples to the laboratory to ensure that the eatables were fit for human consumption.

          Expressing concern over the unclean way of keeping the cooking oil meant for frying on the 3rd floor canteen, the Minister directed the supervisor and other staffs to keep all the eatables covered and ensure the surroundings of cooking areas free from germs.

          Referring to the state government’s initiative to check food adulteration, the Minister said that all the big and small eatery owners would be registered with the health department so as to keep a check on these eateries. He also said that frequent checks would be conducted on small and established hotels and eating joints in the state so that the hygienic conditions could be ensured.

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UNION DEFENCE MINISTER TO INAUGURATE MAI BHAGO ARMED FORCES PREPARATORY INSTITUTE AT MOHALI ON JULY 25

·        CM ALSO EXTENDS INVITATION TO ALL CHIEFS OF THE ARMED FORCES

Chandigarh, July 02-

          Accepting the personal invitation extended by the Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal, the Union Defence Minister Mr. Manohar Parrikar today confirmed his participation to inaugurate the country’s first institution of its kind ‘Mai Bhago Armed Forces Preparatory Institute’ at Sahibzada Ajit Singh Nagar (Mohali) on July 25, 2015.

Disclosing this here today, a spokesperson of the Chief Minister’s Office said that the Union Defence Minister confirmed his program to Mr. Badal on telephone. The state government was organizing a mega function for the inauguration of the state-of-the-art Institute in which thousands of ex-servicemen, serving defence personnel besides prominent dignitaries would attend this prestigious event. All the Chiefs of the Armed Forces have been extended invitation by the Chief Minister to participate in the function to make it a memorable event.  

It may be recalled that the upcoming Institute to impart specialized training exclusively to the female aspirants across the state to serve  in the armed forces of the country, has been set up on the lines of already existing ‘Maharaja Ranjit Singh Armed Forces Preparatory Institute’ at Mohali for the boys by the Punjab government.

The newly constructed ‘Mai Bhago Armed Forces Preparatory Institute’ was located in Sector-66-A opposite the prestigious Indian Business School (ISB) at Mohali. This Academy campus is housed in a sprawling 8 acres in Mohali which was fully residential and has all the modern facilities. The first batch of 25 students out of total 1600 has been selected for this institute through entrance exam.

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CM LAUNCHES STATE PORTAL ePMS AS A PART OF NATIONWIDE ‘DIGITAL INDIA’ WEEK

·                       MOVE TO AUTOMATE THE ENTIRE TRACKING OF STALLED INVESTMENT PROJECT ISSUES FROM SUBMISSION TO COMMISSION ON TIME

·                       CM LAUDS THIS UNIQUE INITIATIVE TO HASTEN INDUSTRIAL GROWTH

·                       HOPES THAT PORTAL WOULD ACT AS A CATALYST TO SEEK CLEARANCES FROM VARIOUS CENTRAL AGENCIES EXPEDITIOUSLY

Chandigarh, July 02-

As a part of nationwide ‘Digital India’ week, the Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today launched the state Portal ePMS (Electronic Projects Management System) here at his official residence.  

This novel project was kicked off to fast track Infrastructure development, enhance efficiency, bring transparency, boost the investor confidence, revive the investment cycle, eliminate the human interaction, and improve the communication between industries to Government (B2G), State to Centre (G2G), or vice versa (G2B).

Disclosing this here today, a spokesperson of the Chief Minister’s Office said that Mr. Badal lauded this unique initiative taken by the Prime Minister Mr. Narendra Modi to hasten the industrial and infra structural growth in the country. He hoped that this state portal would act as a catalyst to seek clearances from various central agencies expeditiously required for the timely implementation of the ongoing development projects and welfare schemes in the state thereby cutting down inordinate delay. This unique project would automate the entire tracking of stalled investment project issues from submission to commission on time.

Giving the details of the project, Joint Secretary Cabinet Secretariat Mr. VP Joy apprised the Chief Minister that this portal was developed and managed by the Cabinet Secretariat Informatics Division of National Informatics Centre (NIC), Cabinet Secretariat, Rashtrapati Bhawan, New Delhi, to fast track infrastructure investment stalled projects, both in the public and private sectors, involving investment between Rs. 100 crores and Rs 1,000 crores. This would include submission of a new project, editing/updating the projects, reviewing the projects, submission of details relating to bottlenecks. It also includes preparation of agenda that could be generated online and circulated with auto mailer to all the Nodal Officers, Secretary of the Ministries or Departments and Invitees with their name. So, it was mandatory to update contact details in the master database by the administrator of the state portal. Similar to the agenda preparation, minutes of the meetings could be generated and circulated online just after the meeting if decision taken by the subgroup was being entered online to the system. System also provides various Graphical Analysis, Reports and Investment Monitoring module. He urged the Chief Minister to arrange a capacity building program for all the head of departments and Administrative Secretaries to familiarize them with the modus operandi of this project and seek their inputs/ suggestions to make any further improvement in the existing portal, if the need be.    

Making presentation on the project Director Information and Technology Government of India, Dr. Shubagh Chand said that portal also provide the list of nodal officers of State and Centre, user manual, audio visual tutorial, frequently asked questions, helpdesk for assistance. It also provides updated list of accepted projects. Industries could create their login credential with this platform and the same credential could be used to submit projects with issues. When any project with issues was being added by an industry to the State PMG, the portal shall automatically push the data to the respective ministries for their comment or action, at the state level. Once the project was being endorsed by State level Nodal Officer, it shall also be automatically routed to the Central PMG, if there were any issues/bottlenecks related to Government of India. Industries get the immediate response from the automatic mailer and they could see the current status of concerned projects through this platform immediately after the subgroup meeting is over if the decision being entered online.

It was informed in the meeting that so far, online projects tracking mechanism has been adopted by the states of Jharkhand, Odisha, Uttarakhand, Kerala, Chhattisgarh, Uttar Pradesh, Himachal Pradesh, Karnataka, Maharashtra, Puducherry, Assam, Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat , Andhra Pradesh, Bihar and Haryana.

Earlier, the Chief Executive Officer of Punjab Investment Promotion Bureau (PIPB) Mr. Anirudh Tiwari informed the Chief Minister that the PIPB had already its own its own portal to facilitate the prospective entrepreneurs and investors to apply online for the registration as well as requisite clearances. He however said that the with the launch of e-PMS project the investment scenario in the state would get a further boost as the new system would help the Bureau and other state agencies in getting GoI’s clearances in a fast track mode.     

Prominent amongst other present on the occasion included Additional Chief Secretary (Development) Mr. Suresh Kumar, Principal Secretary to Chief Minister Mr. SK Sandhu, Principal Secretary Housing Mr. Viswajeet Khanna, Principal Secretary Tourism and Cultural Affairs Mrs. Anjali Bhawra, Secretary Local Government Mr. Ashok Gupta, Managing Director Punjab Infotech Mr. Raj Kanwal Chaudhary, Additional Chief Executive Officer of Punjab PIPB Mr. DK Tiwari, Secretary Technical Education Mr. Rakesh Verma,  Special Principal Secretaries to the Chief Minister Mr. KJS Cheema, Mr. Ajoy Kumar Sharma and Dr. SK Raju . 

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BAGHA THANKS PM FOR NOVEL INITIATIVE OF NATIONAL SCHOLARSHIP PORTAL

·   WOULD BE INSTRUMENTAL IN DIRECTLY CONNECTING WITH YOUTH IN RURAL AREAS

·   PUNJAB’S SCHOLARSHIP E-PORTAL HAS ALREADY BENEFITTED OVER 3 LAKH STUDENTS

Chandigarh, July 2:

Mr. Rajesh Bagha, Chairman Punjab State Scheduled Castes Commission today thanked Prime Minister Mr. Narendra Modi for dedicating National Scholarship Portal to the nation as a part of digital India Week and said that this path breaking step would be instrumental in bringing students of underprivileged and oppressed classes in the mainstream of education, cutting the red tape and nepotism.

Elaborating the benefits of scholarship portal Mr. Bagha said that with this portal needy students living across the country would be able to directly apply on line and get scholarship online from the union government in their bank accounts. He said that this portal would eliminate all middle men creating obstacles in the educational growth of the poor and this would bring transparency and ensure proper delivery of benefits to the needy students.

Elaborating the resounding success of similar portal in state of Punjab Mr. Bagha said that Punjab SC Commission prodded the state government to start scholarship portal so that Scheduled Casts students could get the benefits of Post Matric Scholarship schemes. He said that portal became such a success that number of beneficiaries students which was limited to 20 thousands rose to 3 lakh in one year, the year the state governemtn launched the portal. He said that success rate of delivery of scholarships was 100% with over 3 lakh students belonging to Scheduled Castes communities enjoying of fruits of Union Government pro poor scheme.

He said that National Scholarship portal would script such a success story across the country that other nation would look forward to India to replicate this novel pro poor scheme.  

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DR. BALI ASSUMES CHARGE AS DIRECTOR FAMILY WELFARE PUNJAB

ü LAYS EMPHASIS TO STRENGTHEN “BETI BACHAO BETI PADHAO” MOVEMENT

Chandigarh June 2: Dr. Harinder Singh Bali today assumed charge as Director Family Welfare Punjab. An ENT Specialist, Dr. Bali started his career with Punjab Civil Medical Services in 1982 as Medical Officer at Sangrur and later promoted as Senior Medical Officer in 2005. He also served as Civil Surgeon Ludhiana, Sangrur, and Patiala also as Director ESI.

       After assuming charge, Dr. Bali issued instructions to all the civil surgeons and also the officers of the Health department to strengthen the “Beti Bachao Beti Padhao” movement launched in Punjab to end discrimination against the girl child. He also said that the Health department has chalked out an extensive programme to generate awareness amongst general public to change the mind set of having an obsession for male child.

 He said that to ensure better health care facilities to the infants and mothers and to reduce infant mortality rate (IMR), all the existing hospitals would have an exclusive well equipped mother and child care units.

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SC COMMISSION’S INTERVENTION GETS NOTE BOOKS FOR SC/BC STUDENTS IN SCHOOLS

CHANDIGARH, JULY 2:

Complying with the directives of the Punjab State Commission for Scheduled Castes the Education and Welfare Departments has supplied the note books to students belonging to SC/BC categories. The compliance report has also been submitted by the respondent departments. It was disclosed by Chairman of Commission Mr. Rajesh Bagha in a press communiqué released here today.

It is worth mentioning that during the surprise checking of various schools across the state by Mr. Bagha in the recent past it was noticed SC/BC students in various schools of the state did not get the text books despite starting of academic session a month ago. He said that non delivery of books to these students was directly affecting their studies. Considering this apathetic approach of the Education and Welfare Departments serious blow for the studies of the SC/BC students, Mr. Bagha has directed them to ensure the availability and delivery of books to the students within fortnight.

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BACKLOG OF POST FOR BLINDS BE FILLED SOON: CHEEMA

CHANDIGARH, JULY 2:

Dr. Daljit Singh Cheema, Education Minister, Punjab has today reiterated that the backlog of posts for the blind in Education Department would be filled soon. He said that the process for filling these posts has already initiated and he has categorically directed the officers to complete the whole exercise within stipulated time period.

The Minister said that the SAD-BJP Government was committed for the welfare of visually impaired section of the society. Earlier he chaired a meeting on the issues of blind employees. In this meeting Mr C Roul, Principal Secretary, School Education, Mr. Jaswinder Singh Nayyier, Deputy Director, Mr. Gurpreet Singh Chahal, Founder of National Federation of Blind, Mr. Bawinder Singh, General Secretary and Mr. Devinder Singh, President of Bharat Netarheen Sewak Smaj.

Dr. Cheema has also disclosed that the counselling for the posts of hobby teachers reserved for the blind would be commenced after July 9. On the demand of disbursal of handicapped allowance at the respective district head quarters instead of state headquarter Dr. Cheema desired that the matter would be taken with the finance department for redressal.

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Rajwant Singh Mahla assumes charge as Director of Punjab Khadi and Gram Udyog Board

(Vows to expand base of development activities of board)

Chandigarh, July 2:

The newly appointed Director of the Punjab Khadi and Gram Udyog Board and Social Activist Mr. Rajwant Singh Mahla today assumed charge of his office in the presence of Inderjit Singh, Member Secretary of Khadi Board.

Giving details about the development activities of the board, Mr. Mehla  said that the board has been instrumental in setting up of 244 units and provided loans worth Rs. 23 crore from banks and subsidy worth Rs. 574.29 lakh from Khadi and Village Industries Commission (KVIC). With this initiative, 1340 people have been provided direct and indirect employment, he said. The Member Secretary informed that the board would strive to set up 770 units in 2015-16 under KVIC scheme which would give livelihood to 1850 people besides getting them 32 crores worth loans from banks and subsidies worth Rs. 8 crore.

Mr. Rajwant Singh Mahla while thanking the Chief Minister, Punjab, said he would leave no stone unturned in expanding the base of development activities undertaken by the board.

On the occasion, Vice – Chairman of the board Geetesh Sharma, Mr. Maheshinder Singh, Mrs. Rajwinder Kaur Bhagike, Mr. Joginder Pal Jain (all MLAs), Chairman District Planning Board Moga Mr. Tirath Singh Mahla, State Secretary BJP Mr. Subhash Bhateja, Mr. Gurdev Singh and many other dignitaries were also present.

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PUNJAB INITIATES NEW STEPS TO EXPAND FISH FARMING-RANIKE

Chandigarh, July 2:

           The Punjab today gave a big push to diversification of agriculture by approving comprehensive plans for the expansion of fish farming sector thereby attracting more and more people to adopt this innovative sphere.

          Stating this, Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairy Development Minister, Punjab, Mr. Gulzar Singh Ranike said that the Fish Farming venture can rein in huge profits if it is run on professional lines in all the stages from initial stage to proper marketing.

          The Minister further said that for this very purpose, a special course is all set to begin from 6th July at all 12 centers of the Fisheries Department. During the course, eminent national experts would guide the participants for 5 days. The Minister further elaborated that the course would be run at Abul Khurana (Sri Muktsar Sahib), Katli (Rupnagar), Faggan Majra-Bagria (Fatehgarh Sahib), Sardulgarh, Baghapurana (Moga), Hyat Nagar (Gurdaspur), Sangrur, Malwal (Ferozepur), Amritsar, Dhandua (Nawanshahr), Bir Shikargah Kanjhli (Kapurthala) and Hariana ( Hoshiarpur).

          Divulging more details, he said that the fish farmers successfully completing the course would be provided financial assistance and subsidy by the department. He exhorted more and more people to adopt fish farming in order to wriggle out of the traditional crop cycle. The Minister said that those interested in adopting this unique venture can contact the Assistant Director (Fisheries) of their respective districts.

Meanwhile, Director Fisheries Mr. Inderjit Singh informed that The Punjab Government has announced 50 percent subsidy for all districts on fish farming. He said that earlier the subsidy had been provided to only those districts facing severe problems of water logging but now the state has decided to extend the 50 percent subsidy cover for all districts.  He said that Punjab has huge potential in fish farming, which could be explore to new scales by increasing the culture of fish farming.

          He said that farmers having 1 acre land under fish farming would get Rs. 60,000 for digging as per the norms of department, Rs. 20000 for feed purposes and Rs. 18000 to purchase aerator for increasing amount of oxygen in water.

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 PUNJAB ADOPTS MEGHALYA MODEL TO CURB CHILD LABOUR

·       CHILD COMMISSION STRESSED TO STRICTLY       IMPLEMENT THE MINIMUM RS. 20,000 FINE AND 3   MONTHS IMPRISONMENT TO OFFENDERS AS     PROVISIONED IN THE CHILD LABOUR        PROHIBITION AND REGULATION ACT 1986

·                   EACH ESTABLISHMENT TO PROMINENTLY        DISPLAY THESE GUIDELINES SAYS LABOUR       COMMISSIONER

 Chandigarh July 2:

              A meeting under the chairmanship of Mr. Sukesh Kalia, Chairman, Punjab State Commission for the Protection of Child Rights was convened wherein it was recommended that a notice containing the provision of Child Labour (Prohibition and Regulation) Act 1986 that “A child below 14 years of age indulged in arduous and hazardous jobs or labour is considered a crime. The offenders are liable to a fine of Rs. 20,000 and three months imprisonment” be prominently displayed at strategic points of each small or big shop, business establishment, restaurant and factories etc on the lines of  Meghalaya model to eradicate the menace of child labour growing at alarming pace in the state.

 Agreeing to the recommendation of Child Commission, Labour Department Punjab has directed to all the Assistant Labour Commissioners and Deputy / Assistant Director of Factories of the State to adopt Meghalaya model to eradicate the growing menace of Child Labour in the state.

In a communiqué, the state Labour Commissioner has asked all the district officers to ensure forceful implementation of the recommendation of the Child Commission regarding Child Labour (Prohibition and Regulation) Act 1986 under which three months imprisonment and a fine of Rs. 20,000 could be imposed to the offenders by displaying the notice.      

Mr. Sukesh Kalia, Chairman Punjab State Child Rights Commission said that he and his team had gone to north eastern state to attend State Child Protection Day Programme in the Assam State and noticed that the Meghalaya Government has put up a kind of deterrent to the practice of child labour and also for creating the awareness about the stringent punishment to the erring by putting up the notice containing punishment provisions and contact number for lodging the complaints against the violators on all the business establishments.

Mr. Kalia also suggested the state government to prominently display the notice of the fine to be slapped on the lawbreakers and also imprisonment for three months, in each small or big shop, business establishment, restaurant and factories. In concurrence to his suggestion, the state labour department has issued instructions to the district officers to ensure prominent display of boards everywhere near the possible workplace or where there was a slight inclination of a child being exploited. Mr. Kalia reiterated that this action based on the recommendations of Commission would prove a milestone towards eliminating the menace of Child Labour.

Terming the child labour as the worst kind of exploitation, Mr. Kalia said that it was a sheer violation of Child Rights and a direct attack on the mental, physical, emotional and social life of a child. He called upon all the non government organisations, voluntary organisations and prominent citizens to come forward and join the campaign launched by the Punjab Government to eliminate child labour from Punjab.

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PUNJAB TO UPLOAD RTI REPLIES ON DEPARTMENTAL WEBSITES

Chandigarh, July 2: The Punjab government has directed all the departments to upload information regarding applications seeking information under Right to Information Act, 2005, their replies, appeals filed before first Appellate Authority of the concerned department and its decision on their departmental websites.

In a communiqué sent by the Directorate, Governance Reforms, Punjab to all Financial Commissioners/Principal Secretaries/Administrative Secretaries, it has been asked that they should issue detailed directions in this regard to their concerned departments. This decision has been taken in compliance of Hon’ble Supreme Court directions in Petition No. 896 of 2014.

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DEPARTMENTS TOLD TO SPEED UP THE DRIVE TO WEED OUT OLD RECORDS

REPORT THE PROGRESS TO GENERAL ADMINISTRATION DEPARTMENT

Chandigarh, July 2:

The Punjab Government today issued instructions to expedite the campaign to weed out obsolete record gathering dust in almirahs of record sections of various sections in secretariat  and to carry out Swachh Bharat Mission in all offices of Punjab Civil Secretariat and take this message to all Government offices in the state.

Seeking reports from all the departments on the campaign launched on Gandhi Jayanti last year, an official spokesperson said that this directive is part of a policy decision taken by the State Government to make Swachh Bharat Mission a success by ensuring hygienic and clean working environment. The spokesman also sought progress from all the departments regarding steps taken by them in weeding out  old obsolete files, broken furniture and dumps of waste building material in various corners of offices. The spokesman also sought report on clearance of entry and exit routes which were bring blocked by broken furniture in different floors of Punjab Civil Secretariat.

The departments have also been asked to submit reports regarding measure taken to address the problem of dangling and loose electric wires despite renovation of various floors and corrective measures taken in this regard. 
Divulging more details, the spokesperson said that each branch has been ordered to convey its progress to the General Administration department.

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DR. BHAG MAL TAKES OVER AS DIRECTOR HEALTH PUNJAB

• ALL CIVIL SURGEONS ASKED TO KEEP A CLOSE VIGIL ON SEX DETERMINATION CENTRES

•   EXISTING HEALTH CARE INSTITUTIONS AND DRUG DE-ADDICTION CENTRES TO BE REVAMPED

• TO CHECK FOOD ADULTERATION ON TOP OF THE AGENDA

Chandigarh July 1:  Dr Bhag Mal today took over as the new Director Health & Family Welfare, Punjab. He got elevated to the post after the superannuation of his predecessor, Dr. Jatinder Kaur   on June 30, 2015. Dr Bhag Mal  is  a child specialist and has joined Punjab Civil Medical Services in the year Hoshiapur in 1980 as Medical Officer and served on many key positions in Punjab including Registrar Government Medical College Patiala, Civil Surgeon Barnala, Director ESI and Director Family Welfare Punjab. 

                Assuming charge on the International Doctors’ Day, Dr. Bhag Mal has directed all Civil Surgeons to take effective steps to keep a close watch on the sex determination centres indulged in illegal practices of determining sex before birth. Dr. Bhag Mal said that the state government has already taken stringent measures to check the declining sex ratio and he said that it was much better as compared to our neighboring states. He asked the district health officers to ensure strict implementation of PNDT ACT on the state.

                The Director also said that all the existing health care institutions and also the drug de-addiction centres would be revamped. Adequate infrastructure and latest equipment would be ensured in all the hospitals. Referring to the shortage of specialist doctors, Dr. Bhag Mal said that the government was already in the process of appointing specialists in the state besides providing incentive to the doctors opting for border area postings.

                Referring to his priorities after assuming charge, Dr. Bhag Mal said that checking food adulteration was one of his top priorities. He has asked the drug controller to ensure that every eatery owner, small or big is registered with the Health department. He has also asked the health officers to collect the food samples randomly and send them to the authorized food testing laboratory for testing and proper action would be taken against the defaulters, said Dr. Bhag Mal.

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Sukhbir Badal announces Rs. 6000 crore for total facelift of Rural Punjab

(Says Rs. 4000 crore set aside to provide complete sewerage cover in towns)

(4/6 lane road projects to be completed within a year)

 Faridkot, July 1: Punjab Deputy Chief Minister Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal today announced that Rural Punjab is all set to have complete facelift with state’s Rs. 6000 crore comprehensive development blueprint besides Rs. 4000 crore has been set aside to provide complete sewerage system in all towns in the state.  

While enthroning Harjit Singh Bholuwala as Chairman District Planning Committee, Mr. Badal said the incumbent SAD-BJP regime was fulfilling all the promises made with the people of Punjab. He said concerted efforts of Punjab government have started to yield fruitful results and State has become power surplus as promised. He said 24 hours cut free power was being provided across the state while the neighbouring states were far behind in this sector.

He also announced that within one year all the cities, towns and major areas of the state would be linked with 4/6 lane road network since the work in this regard was in full pace. He said works of constructing flyovers would also be completed in one year.

Reiterating his commitment to put Punjab on the map of one of the most developed state, Mr. Badal said he had started his political career from Faridkot district and there would be no paucity of funds for the all round development of this royal city. He said Punjab is all set to take another leap by establishing Sewa Kendras covering all towns and villages and the sole motive of this unique idea was to provide all facilities at the doorsteps of citizens. 

On being asked about the drug menace in the state, Mr. Badal said the state was taking all steps to eliminate this menace with the cooperation of citizens. He also asked the people of Punjab to come forward against this social evil. When asked about any rift between the coalition partners over this issue, Mr. Badal said there was no such possibility and the alliance was unflinching. He said all the decisions were taken with the due consultation between the both partners. Answering a query regarding the election of President of Faridkot Nagar Council, Mr. Badal said it will be done very shortly.

Prominent amongst those present on the occasion included Mantar Singh Brar Chief Parliamentary Secretary, Deep Malhotra, Mahesh Inder Sinigh (both MLAs), Avtar Singh Brar Chairman PRTC, Navdeep Singh Babbu, Gurbinder Kaur Bholuwala, Prakash Singh Bhatti and senior leaders of SAD-BJP.

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39 PES CADRE OFFICERS OF EDUCATION DEPARTMENT TRANSFERRED

CHANDIGARH, JULY 1:

The Education Department today issued posting and transfer order of PES Cadre officers, teachers and non teaching staff. Disclosing this Dr. Daljit Singh Cheema, Education Minister, Punjab said that the transfers and posting of 39 PES Cadre officers have been made on administrative post purely on seniority and competency. He said that the department has issued these orders as per the desires of the officers.

An Official spokesman of the department said that Mr. Harbans Singh Sandhu transferred and posted as Deputy Director (EE) and additional charge of DPI (EE), Sukhwinder Singh as Circle Education Officer Jalandhar, Harpal Kaur as Circle Education Officer Naba, Baljit Kaur as Circle Education Officer Faridkot, Pankaj Sharma as Director (Administration), Sukhdev Singh as Deputy Director, SCERT and additional charge of Director, SCERT,  Ginni Duggal as Deputy Director, SCERT, Gurjit Singh as Additional SPD, Manjit Kaur as Deputy SPD, Jagtar Sing as Deputy SPD, Surinder Pal Sing as Deputy SPD, Maninder Singh as Deputy SPD (RMSA), Balwinder Singh Sandhu as Assistant Director (EE), Dasy as Deputy Director, SCERT, Satinderjit Kaur as Deputy Director,SISE, Harvinder Kaur as Assistant Director (Vocational), Sharuti Shukla as State Co-ordinator Guidance and Counselling, Dharam Singh as Deputy Director, Sohinder Kaur as Principal, GSSS Nada, Lakhvinder Kaur as Principal, GSSS Dalut Singh Wala, Surinder Kumar Ghai as DEO (EE) Fetahgarh Sahib, Neelam Kumari as Principal, DIET Rampur Lallia (Jalandhar), Jaspal Singh as DEO (EE) Moga, Harpreet Inder Singh as DEO (SE) Rupnagar, Jatinder Singh DEO (EE) Rupnagar, Rampal Singh as DEO (SE) Hoshiarpur, Sukhvinder Kaur as Principal, DIET, Hoshiarpur, Darshana Kumari as Principal, DIET Verka, Kulwinder Singh as Assistant Director, Baljinder Singh as District Science Supervisor Jalandhar, Charnjeet Watis as Deputy DEO (EE) Sangrur, Gurpreet Kaur as Deputy DEO (SE) Mohali, Jarnail Singh as Principal, GSSS Pathankot and additional charge of DEO (EE) Pathankot, Sunita Kiran as Principal, Govt in Service Training Centre Amritsar, Krishna Devi as Principal, DIET Jagraon, Sneh Sarita as Principal, DIET Gurdaspur, Gurpreet Kaur as Deputy CEO Jalandhar, Jaswant Kaur as DEO (SE) Fetehgarh Sahib and Navtej Inder Kumar posted as Principal, DIET Fetahgarh Sahib.

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EMPLOYEES GIVEN OPTION TO DISCONTINUE MOBILE ALLOWANCE

·         HOWEVER EMPLOYEES WOULD HAVE TO REMAIN AVAILABLE AT ALTERNATE MOBILE NUMBER

Chandigarh, July 1:

            The Punjab Government today clarified that any employee in the state government can opt to get his mobile allowance discontinued, if he desires.

            In a clarification note issued by an official spokesman said that for discontinuing mobile allowance the concerned employee would have to give an undertaking to the competent authority that this discontinuation would not in any way adversely affect the discharge of his official duties. Giving more details, the spokesperson said that the employee would have to ensure his availability on the alternate mobile number provided to the department so that it would not affect his duties as Government employee. 

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ATWAL’S INTERVIEW TODAY AT 7 P.M.

TO BE TELECAST ON LIVING INDIA NEWS

Chandigarh, 1 July:

         The Interview of Dr. Charanjit Singh Atwal, Speaker, Punjab Vidhan Sabha would be telecast on 2nd July, 2015 at 7.00 PM on Living India News Channel in a Programme " ONE TO ONE  - KHAS MULAKAT " Dr. Atwal was interviewed by Senior Journalist Surinder Dalla of Living India New.

             Stating this, a spokesperson of the Punjab Vidhan Sabha said that the Interview was based on the Working of Legislative Assemblies and Role of Legislatures, right education and the celebrations of 125th anniversary of Bharat Ratan Dr. B.R. Ambedkar. 

No. PR-15/763

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          PUNJAB CONSTITUTES SPECIAL TRAFFIC CHECKING WING FOR ILLEGAL ROUTE STAGE CARRIAGE BUSES AND MINI BUSES

CHANDIGARH, JULY 01:-

                   Punjab Government has constituted a special traffic checking wing for illegal route stage carriage buses and mini buses in the State.

                   Disclosing this here today, a spokesman of the State Transport Commissioner, Punjab said that the District Transport Officer, Amritsar would check the Ludhiana district illegal route stage carriage buses and mini buses whereas District Transport Officer, Gurdaspur would check the Jalandhar district.

                   The spokesman further said that District Transport Officer, Pathankot would check  the Amritsar district illegal route stage carriage buses and mini buses, District Transport Officer Hoshiarpur would perform the same function at Gurdaspur; District Transport Officer, Ropar at Mohali; District Transport Officer, Mohali at Hoshiarpur; District Transport Officer, Nawanshahr at Ropar; District Transport Officer, Jalandhar at Tarn Taran; District Transport Officer, Ludhiana at Patiala; District Transport Officer, Tarn Taran at Pathankot; District Transport Officer, Ferozepur at Kapurthala; District Transport Officer,  Faridkot at Sri Muktsar Sahib; District Transport Officer, Sri Muktsar at Mansa; District Transport Officer, Fazilka at Faridkot; District Transport Officer, Barnala at Fazilka; District Transport Officer, Mansa at Fatehgarh Sahib; District Transport Officer, Patiala at Barnala; District Transport Officer, Sangrur at Bathinda; District Transport Officer, Moga at Ferozepur and District Transport Officer, Fatehgarh at Sangrur ; District Transport Officer, Bathinda at Moga and Secretary, Regional Transport Authority Headquarter  at Nawanshahr would check the illegal route stage carriage buses and mini buses.

          The spokesman further said that officers deputed on duty would submit the special traffic checking report next day at 11.00 A.M.  by fax to Additional State Transport Commissioner, Punjab to their respective district.

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Maluka asks officers to expedite the pace of Rural development projects

·         To fill 30 posts of JE for expedite the completion of projects

·         Adequate staff and manpower to be provided to field offices

Chandigarh, July 1:

          The Punjab Rural Development and Panchayats Minister Mr. Sikander Singh Maluka today issued instructions to all authorities concerned to ensure the completion of ongoing Rural Development Projects in time by accelerating the pace of work.

            In a meeting here today, Mr. Maluka said the state has prepared a comprehensive plan to strengthen the Rural Development Department by filling all the vacant posts with a view to give a boost to the ongoing projects. He said that staff shortage in the department would be resolved soon, under this plan 30 Junior Engineers (Civil) would be recruited in short span of time. He said that Chief Minister has given the nod to the recruitment process and JEs would be recruited through direct recruitment process.  The Minister also informed that department was also reviewing the actual number of shortage of staff in the field offices so that adequate staff and manpower could be provided. He said that with the recruitment of fresh lot of JEs and other needful staff, the functioning of department would get new pace.

            The Minister also asked the authorities/officers concerned to complete the ongoing rural development projects within stipulated time frame. He also said in months to come Rural belts of Punjab would have get a new facelift as development projects were on advanced stage of completion.

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