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STAGE ALL SET FOR OPENING OF MAI BHAGO ARMED FORCES PREPARATORY INSTITUTE

CM TO DEDICATE THIS COVETED INSTITUTE TO THE NATION

ON JULY 12

THIS ACADEMY TO IMPART SPECIALIZED TRAINING TO THE FEMALE ASPIRANTS DESIROUS OF JOINING ARMED FORCES

BADAL DESCRIBES THIS INSTITUTE AS HIS DREAM PROJECT

 Chandigarh, June 30: Stage is all set to dedicate the nation’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 the prestigious National Defence Academy (NDA) in the country.

Disclosing this here today, a spokesperson of the Chief Minister’s Office said that the Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal would inaugurate this premium institute established in Sector-66-A opposite the prestigious Indian Business School (ISB) at Mohali on July 12, 2015.

While reviewing the arrangements for this function, 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 is a momentous occasion for all of us to have this premium institute to train our girls to join defence services as their promising career”. He said that all the serving Chiefs of the Armed Forces would be extended invitation well in advance to enable them to participate in this function. Exuding confidence that he has taken this path breaking decision 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.

It may be recalled that within three years of its inception 51 students, including 22 in the current session, from Maharaja Ranjit Singh Armed Forces Preparatory Institute have been selected in the Armed forces of the country after undergoing training from this illustrious institute.

Meanwhile, Director Mai Bhago Armed Forces Preparatory Institute General I.P. Singh apprised the Chief Minister that first of its kind upcoming Mai Bhago Institute would provide a golden opportunity for girls from Punjab to choose an elite career as a Commissioned Officer in the Defence Services. This Academy campus is housed in a sprawling 8 acres in Mohali which was fully residential and has all the modern facilities including multi-gym, swimming, shooting, sports fields, walking plaza etc. He said that on the first batch 25 students out of total 1600 have been selected for this institute through entrance exam. The curriculum includes three years graduation (BSc/BA/BCom) in MCM DAV College Sector 36, Chandigarh; Sports and Physical Fitness, Personality Development, Communication Skills, Grooming, Extra Curricular Activities, NCC, Professional Training and preparation for SSB Interview.

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 Bhatti and Jathedar Ujagar Singh Badali, District Akali Dal President Mr. Jagdeep Singh Cheema, Special Principal Secretary to Chief Minister Mr. K.J.S Cheema, Director Information & Public Relations Mr. Rahul Tewari, Director Defence Service Welfare Brigadier J.S. Arora, Director Maharaja Ranjit Singh Armed Forces Preparatory Institute Brigadier D.S. Grewal, Additional Director Information & Public Relations Mr. Puneet Goel and Chairman-cum-Managing Director PESCO Lieutenant General Kuldeep Singh.

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Sukhwant Singh Sarao sworn-in as member PPSC

 Governor administers oath of office

 Chandigarh, June 30 - The Punjab Governor and UT Administrator, Prof. Kaptan Singh Solanki today administered the oath of office, secrecy and allegiance to Mr. Sukhwant Singh Sarao as member of the Punjab Public Service Commission (PPSC) at a brief ceremony held in Punjab Raj Bhawan.

Stating this, an official spokesperson said that the Punjab Chief Secretary, Mr. Sarvesh Kaushal sought the permission of the Governor to commence the swearing in ceremony.

He further said on this occasion Punjab Chief Minister S. Parkash Singh Badal, Education Minister Dr. Daljit Singh Cheema, Rural Development and Panchayats Minister Mr. Sikander Singh Maluka, Finance Minister Mr. Parminder Singh Dhindsa, Mr. Justice Jasbir Singh (Retd) and family members of Mr. Sukhwant Singh Sarao were also present.

Besides others present on the occasion included Sant Balbir Singh Ghunas, Ch. Nand Lal and Parkash Chand Garg (all CPS), Iqbal Singh Jhundha and Gobind Singh Longowal (both MLA), Dr. Jaspal Singh VC Punjabi University, Raj Shekhar Attri District & Sessions Judge Jalandhar, Harmel Singh Tohra ex-Minister, Gurbachan Singh Bacchi, Daljit Singh PCS, Santa Singh Umedpur Chairman PSSSB, Harcharan Singh Bhullar IPS and Harpal Juneja.

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PUNJAB GOVERNMENT DEPARTMENTS DIRECTED TO FILL 3% RESERVATION QUOTA FOR THE BLIND

Chandigarh June 30: The Punjab government has issued instructions to all deparments to ensure 3% quota to visually impaired persons as per Apex Court directive in all A,B,C and D category posts. The Punjab government has also asked all the heads of the departments to furnish details regarding the filling up of the posts of visually impaired according to the 3% reservation.

According to a spokesperson of the government, instructions to this effect have been issued to all the heads of the departments, Divisional Commissioners, Deputy Commissioners, Registrar Punjab and Haryana High Court, District Sessions Judge, Chairman Punjab Public Service Commission, Chairmen Boards and Corporations and Registrar all the Universities and educational institutions to ensure immediate compliance of the Supreme Court directive in this regard.

Spokesman further said that the departments would maintain the total number of vacancies which have arisen in case of Category A, B, C and D, vacancies filled up through the process of direct recruitment since 1995. He also said that the backlog of vacancies would be covered especially for the persons with disabilities.

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Officers to be enrolled under digital locker enrolment drive

 Chandigarh, June 30 : The Punjab Government has asked its all officers/officials to enrol under national digital locker system thereby enabling them to store and access all their government issued documents on the cloud storage system.

Disclosing this an official spokesman said the sole aim of digital locker scheme was to place all educational, medical, passport and PAN card details of every Indian in a digital form over a cloud storage system so that citizens could access them from anywhere in the world without having to carry all the documents physically. He said state Governance Reforms department has issued necessary directions to all Administrative Secretaries and Deputy Commissioners for enrolment of all officers/officials under national digital locker system (NDLS).

He said this concept would be linked to the Aadhaar cards of citizens and enable them to store and access all their government issued documents (right from birth certificate to degrees) on the cloud storage system by using their Aadhaar numbers.

The Spokesman said the data would be protected by a one-time password, which would be sent to the user’s mobile via an SMS every time he tries to log in to his digital locker, much in the same manner as an online banking transaction at present. All citizens could start using the digital locker immediately by logging in athttp://digitallocker.gov.in/ or http://digilocker.gov.in and http://elocker.gov.in

Talking about the need of NDLS, he informed that it would make the digitilisation of documents instead of physical form besides enabling digital empowerment of residents with digital locker. It would also make residents enable for e-signing of documents and make them available electronically and online. He said that this will be a revolution towards minimise the use for physical documents vis-a-vis anytime, anywhere access to the documents by the residents.

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 PUNJAB ASKS DEPARTMENTS TO LIST OUT CORRUPT OFFICERS

·         INSTRUCTS TO CRACK WHIP ON THEM

·     DEPARTMENT TOLD TO LIST OUT OFFICIALS/ OFFICERS WITH DUBIOUS SERVICE RECORD

·     TAINTED OFFICERS WOULD NOT BE POSTED ON PLUM & CRUCIAL PUBLIC DEALING POSTS

CHANDIGARH, JUNE 30:

The Punjab Government today issued explicit instructions to all the department to list out officials/officers with dubious service record and submit the list to the competent authorities to initiate action against them.

In an directive issued by Vigilance Department to all Chief Vigilance Officers of all the departments and in the offices of Commissioners and Deputy Commissioners it has been reiterated that all CVOs were duty bound to detect corruption and corrupt officers in their respective department, make a list of corrupt officers who enjoyed bad reputation. It has been instructed to them that they have to ensure effective supervision of such corrupt officials/officers besides regulating their postings so that they do not have any chance to indulge into corruption.

All CVOs have been directed to take effective steps to regulate postings of dubious elements .Reminding them decision taken by Chief Secretary in the meeting of CVOs, it was reiterated that all CVOs are duty bound to submit list of such officers to competent authorities for further necessary action. They have been instructed that officers with dubious record should not be posted on any sensitive seat.  

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 PUNJAB EXTENDS DATE FOR PENDING INSTALMENT OF PROPERTIES, WATER SUPPLY AND SEWAGE CONNECTIONS TO 31 JULY

·        ANIL JOSHI ISSUED DIRECTIONS TO ORGANISE AWARENESS CAMPAIGN FOR CITIZENS

CHANDIGARH, JUNE 30:

The Punjab Government today extended the last date of pending instalments of properties of Improvement Trusts and for the regularisation the connections of water and sewage supply to 31 July 2015.

Mr. Anil Joshi said that keeping the view of public interest, Local Government department has decided to extend the date. He said that for the possession of the property of Improvement Trusts, owners should deposit the all pending instalments by 31 July. He clarified that this exemption has been allowed on the properties acquired before 25 November 2013 by Improvement Trusts.

The Local Government Minister said that department also decided to provide relaxation for regularisation the illegal water and sewage connections for this owners should only deposit the amount of one year of user charges.

He further said that strict action would be taken from August 1, 2015 onward against beneficiaries, who will fail to regularise their connections. He warned that three years of user charges, connection fee, road cutting charges would be recovered from the defaulters.

He added that directions have been issued to the Deputy Directors of Municipal Corporations/ councils/ panchayts to publicise the extension of date for the services and provide adequate information through display on notice  Boards in the offices of departments from which citizens could easily get all information.

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STATISTICS DAY OBSERVED IN PUNJAB

ACCURATE STATISTICS PLAYS VITAL ROLE IN PLANNING

Chandigarh, June 30:

          The Statistics Day was celebrated by Economic and Statistical Organization, Punjab, the nodal development for Statistics of Punjab Government at Chandigarh. This day is celebrated every year at the national and sub-national level in recognition of great contribution made by late Prof. P.C. Mahalanobis in the field of statistical development and economic planning. The theme of this year statistics day is “Social Development Statistics".  Objective of celebration of the day is to acknowledge the role of statistics in various fields and create public awareness, specially among the younger generation and drawing inspiration from Late Prof. Mahalanobis.

          Speaking on the occasion Sh. M.L. Sharma, Economic Adviser Punjab said that Statisticians could take forward the legacy of Prof. Mahalanobis by enabling timely delivery of accurate statistics for informed decision making for the welfare of people primarily socially deprived and under privilege sections. He underlined the key importance of statistics on social development to measure the real impact of economic development on society. He said without social development, economic development has little significance.

          Sh. Parminder Singh Walia and Sh. Tirath Singh, Directors ESO, spoke on poverty and NSS data and its social relevance in the present time. Sh. Harvinder Singh, Joint Director contextualized the role of Prof. P.C. Mahalanobis in the post independence era of planned development of India. He said although Punjab appears to be very prosperous state yet it has a large number of under privileged social sections and backward areas and accurate statistics will help their development through realistic planning.

          Sh. Jagdeep Singh, Joint Director spoke on the role of plan schemes for social development of the state. Similarly, Mrs. Kuldeep Kaur, Joint Director explained about the social development related statistics being presented through various publications of the department such as Statistical Abstract, Gender Statistics etc. and emphasized  the need of further improvement for more relevant coverage.

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ONLINE COMPETITIONS TO BE ORGANISED DURING ‘DIGITAL INDIA WEEK’

CHANDIGARH, JUNE 30:

The Punjab Government has decided to organise online competitions in all schools of State on the occasion of nationwide ‘Digital India Week’ from 1st July to 7th July 2015.

Giving this information, spokesperson said that theme of competition will focus on cyber security and cyber wellness. He said that directions has been issued to all principles of schools and district education officers to make the two groups of students of 6th to 8th and 9th to 12th class for online competitions.

The spokesperson said that participation of all students would be ensured by concerned authorities and as per orders involvement of all private and Government aided schools is compulsory in the online competition. The Department has ordered the all concerned I.C.T coordinators/adjacent coordinators to and ensure hardware and internet support before 1st July 2015.

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 PUNJAB STATE COOPERATIVE SOCIETY ORGANIZES AWARENESS CAMP

·         MAKES PEOPLE AWARE ABOUT THE LOANS AND DEPOSIT SCHEMES

Chandigarh June 30: To make people aware about the loans and various deposit schemes launched by Government of India, Punjab state cooperative Society Banks organized an awareness camp here today.

            Disclosing this here today the Branch Manager of Punjab state cooperative society bank, sector 44 said that this was an educative camp attended by hundreds of people who were given complete knowledge about the benefits of the ongoing financial schemes.

            During the interactive camp Deputy General Manager Mr. Bhupinder Singh, Assistant General Manager Mr. Arpal Singh and Mr. Dev Suman Jinadal laid more emphasis on the Pradhan Mantri Suraksha Bima Yojna, Pradhan Mantri Jeevan Jyoti Bima Yojna and Atal Pension Yojna. Besides this they were also guided about the ongoing loan and other deposit schemes by the Banks.  

            During the awareness camp the importance of linking the bank accounts with Aadhar Card so as to get the direct funds/ subsidies credited in their accounts.           

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Punjab Government transferred One IAS and 6 PCS

Chandigarh, June 30: Punjab government today issued transfer and posting orders for one IAS and 6 PCS officers with immediate effect.

          According to an official spokesperson Mr. Vivek Pratap Singh, IAS has been posted as Secretary Vigilance relieving Mr. Vikash Partap, of this additional charge.

          The spokesperson said in PCS Mr. Tej Partap Singh Phoolka has been posted as Special Secretary, Exicse and Taxation, Mr. Sunil Bhatia posted at Special Secretary, Revenue; Mr. Sandeep Hans services placed at the disposal of the Department of Cooperation for posting as Additional Managing Director, MARKFED; Smt. Anita Darshi posted as Assistant Commissioner (General) Moga and in additional Assistant Commissioner (Grievances) Moga; Mr. Gurjit Singh posted as Sub Divisional Magistrate, Sultanpur Lodhia  and Ms. Charumita posted as Assistant Commissioner (General) Barnala and in addition Assistant Commissioner (Grievances) Barnala.

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NEARLY 3500 PILGRIMS STRANDED AT GOBIND DHAM RESCUED SAFELY WITH JOINT EFFORTS OF DISTRICT ADMINISTRATION, ITBP AND NDRF

WOMEN, CHILDREN AND AGED EVACUATED THROUGH

SPECIAL CHOPPERS ON PRIORITY

DISTRICT ADMINISTRATION ALLOWS FEW PILGRIMS STAYING AT GOBIND GHAT TO PAY OBEISANCE AT SRI HEMKUNT SAHIB

ALL PILGRIMS TO RETURN PUNJAB ON TUESDAY

Chandigarh, June 29: As many as 3500 odd pilgrims stranded at Gobind Dham have been safely evacuated and brought back either at Gobind Ghat or Joshi Math with the active cooperation and joint efforts of District Administration Joshi Math, Indo Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) and state team of the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF).

Disclosing this here today, senior IAS Mr. A.S. Miglani, the head of the special team deputed by the Punjab government for the evacuation of pilgrims from Gobind Ghat and Gobind Dham enroute Sri Hemkunt Sahib said that all the pilgrims struck up at Gobind Dham have been rescued and moved safely to Gobind Ghat and Joshi Math. He told that nearly 1500 pilgrims have been evacuated from Gobind Dham through chopper and the remaining 2000 have been made to cross the makeshift bridge between Gobind Ghat and Gobind Dham by foot to reach Gobind Ghat. The District Administration of Joshi Math has accorded top priority to bring back the women, children and aged persons through chopper while others especially the young were asked to return Gobind Ghat by foot. Likewise, 35-40 youths who were struck up at Gobind Dham yesterday refused to return Gobind Ghat by foot and insisted to go back through chopper and thus they too were made to return through special chopper this morning. He categorically said that not even a single pilgrim was left at Gobind Dham and all of them have returned to Gobind Ghat/Joshi Math, from there they would further proceed to their respective destinations in Punjab either by their own vehicles or the Punjab Roadways Buses. Mr. Miglani further said that all the pilgrims who have returned back from Gobind Dham to Gobind Ghat or Joshi Math would be positively sent back to Punjab tomorrow morning.

Mr. Miglani also apprised that the few pilgrims who had been camping at Gobind Ghat for last few days and were adamant to pay obeisance at Sri Hemkunt Sahib have been now allowed by the District Administration to proceed further for the Darshan of holy shrine with the personal intervention of special team. He however said that the Uttrakhand meteorological department has predicted fresh rains and inclement weather in the valley during next few days.

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SPECIAL TEAM LED BY SENIOR IAS OFFICER A.S.MIGLANI REACHES JOSHI MATH

·        EVACUATION WORK TO BE COMPLETED BY TOMORROW AFTERNOON

·        NO CASUALTY REPORTED SO FAR; EVERY THING IS FINE

·        LOCAL ARMY CONSTRUCTS MAKESHIFT BRIDGE FOR MOVEMENT OF PILGRIMS BETWEEN GOBIND GHAT AND GOBIND DHAM

 CHANDIGARH, JUNE 28:

          A special team deputed by the State Government for the evacuation of pilgrims stranded at Gobind Ghat  and Gobind Dham have started rescue operations.

Disclosing this here today the head of the team Mr. A.S.Miglani informed that all the members of the team were in touch with pilgrims at Gurdwara Sahib in Joshi Math. He said that the entire work of the evacuation of the pilgrims who were stuck up at Gobind Dham as the bridge between the Gobind Ghat and Gobind Dham had been washed away due to heavy rain, had been now repaired by the local army and the pilgrims in small groups of 2-3 persons were escorted by the army personnel to cross the bridge and have been brought back safely at Gobind Ghat.

          Mr. Miglani further informed that the Punjab Roadways Buses could not reach Joshi Matt as they were stuck up in the way near Rishikesh due to several land slides on the way and now the small buses would be arranged by the State Transport Department to bring back the stranded pilgrims enroute to Sri Hem Kund Sahib to Punjab safely. These mini buses were expected to reach at Joshi Math tomorrow afternoon from where these pilgrims would be sent back to Punjab.  All the pilgrims were being provided food in the Gurdwaras at Joshi Math and Gobind Ghat.

          The  local army has detained the pilgrims waiting for their turn to pay obeisance at Gurdwara Sri Hem Kund Sahib till the passage  and damage brdige connecting Gobind Ghat and Gobind Dham was fully repaired and becomes operational. The army personnel has advised the pilgrims to return their state till the completion of new bridge.

          Mr. Miglani also apprised  that no causality has been reported  so far and every thing was fine and under control of the army. The pilgrims were also being provided with medical facilities, if required and medicines. The other members of the team who were  deputed to oversee and ensure safe return of stranded pilgirms to Punjab included . Inspector General of Police  Mr. Gautam Cheema,  SDM Mohali, Mr. Lakhvir Singh, and Assistant Registrar Cooperative Capt. Gurdeep Singh Dhillon.

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CM WELCOMES PROPOSAL OF NITI AAYOG TO PRUNE LIST OF CENTRALLY SPONSORED SCHEMES

BATS FOR SCRAPPING OF ALL SUCH SCHEMES

EXPRESSES CONCERN OVER THE SLASHING SHARE OF GoI IN EXISTING CENTRALLY SPONSORED SCHEMES

SOLE AGENDA OF STATE GOVERNMENT WAS TO PROMOTE UNIVERSAL BROTHERHOOD AND PEACE

TERMS MANPREET AS CHRONIC TURNCOAT, WHO HAS NO MORAL RIGHT TO QUESTION SAD-BJP ALLIANCE

DESCRIBES SAD-BJP ALLIANCE GOVERNMENT AS THE MOST SECULAR GOVERNMENT IN THE COUNTRY

ALL THE TOWNS OF THE STATE TO GET BASIC CIVIC AMENITIES BY THE END OF 2016

THANKS GIVING TOUR IN DHURI ASSEMBLY SEGMENT

Dhuri (Sangrur), June 28-

Welcoming the proposal of NITI Aayog to prune the list of centrally sponsored schemes and enhance the share of flexi funds, the Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today said that doing away all such schemes was the need of the hour and in the larger interest of the country. 

Interacting with the media persons on the sidelines of his thanks giving tour in Dhuri assembly here today, the Chief Minister, while pleading for the scrapping of centrally sponsored schemes, asked the Union government to transfer the funds directly to the states as untied Funds and direct Grants to enable them to formulate schemes. He said that devolution of funds to the states in the right earnest could be a step for achieving the goal of true federal system. Mr. Badal said that they have been pursuing this agenda since long so as to empower the states for ensuring the welfare of people in a far more effective manner.

Expressing concern over the declining share of the Government of India (GoI) in the existing centrally sponsored schemes, the Chief Minister batted for enhancement in the share of Centre government in the centrally sponsored schemes. Mr. Badal said that it was unfortunate that the share of central taxes was continuously being curtailed whereas the state’s share was ever mounting. He said that this would put extra burden on the states, which were already having limited funds at their disposal to carry out development.  “This trend needs to be reversed by enhancing the share of union government in all such schemes for ensuring holistic development of the states” added Mr. Badal.

Asked to comment on the statement of Congress leader Captain Amarinder Singh that the state government was pursuing ‘Panthic Agenda’, the Chief Minister said that the sole agenda of the state government was to strengthen the national unity and integrity by promoting the ethos of communal harmony, brotherhood and peace in the state. He said that if the entire country pursues this agenda then peace and progress would prevail in the country. “Our agenda is of universal brotherhood and peace and none can ever deter us from doing this pious task” added Mr. Badal.

Replying to another query, the Chief Minister said that the former Finance Minister Mr. Manpreet Singh Badal has no moral right to point finger towards the SAD-BJP alliance in the state. He said that the PPP leader has lost his credibility by frequently shifting his sides. “How can Manpreet raise question on our alliance when he was himself a chronic turncoat’” questioned Mr. Badal.   

Earlier, addressing the public gatherings in village Dugni, Jaatimajra, Mallumajra, Daulatpura and in various wards of Dhuri city, the Chief Minister termed the SAD-BJP alliance government as the most secular government in the country. He said that the state government has taken path breaking initiatives for the welfare of each and every strata of society adding that it was a fact that the SAD-BJP alliance government was following the footsteps of the great Sikh Gurus who have taught them the message of communal harmony, love, brotherhood, peace and above all of creating an egalitarian society with pure secular character. Mr. Badal said that was why the state government has always taken adequate steps to ensure the all-round development of every section of the society.

The Chief Minister further said that in a major step aimed at providing world class civic amenities to residents of the cities across the state, the state government has embarked a major scheme providing the facility of water supply, sewerage, Sewerage Treatment Plants (STPs), Streetlights, Roads and parks in all the towns by the end of 2016. Reiterating the firm commitment of the state government to provide best civic amenities to the urban residents, Mr. Badal said that no stone would be left unturned for achieving this target. He said that the funds for this major project aimed at giving facelift to the cities have already been arranged and the work would be completed in a time bound manner.

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HIGH LEVEL RESCUE TEAM DISPATCHED BY THE STATE GOVERNMENT TO OVERSEE EVACUATION OF THE PILGRIMS STRANDED AT SRI HEMKUNT SAHIB

MIGLANI TO HEAD THE TEAM TO BE STATIONED IN UTTARAKHAND FOR RELIEF WORKS

CM DESCRIBES THE SCOURGE OF FLOODS IN UTTARAKHAND AS A NATIONAL TRAGEDY

ASSURES FULL AND IMMEDIATE HELP FROM THE STATE GOVERNMENT TO ALL THOSE AFFECTED BY NATURE’S FURY

PRAYS FOR THE SAFETY OF ALL THOSE STRANDED IN UTTARAKHAND

Chandigarh, June 27-

On the directions of Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal, the state government today dispatched a high level rescue team to oversee the evacuation of the pilgrims stranded at Sri Hemkunt Sahib due to heavy rains and reported damage to bridges, roads and others.

Disclosing this here today a spokesperson of the Chief Minister's Office said that as per the orders issued by the state Chief Secretary Mr. Sarvesh Kaushal, the Registrar, Co-operative Societies Mr. Arunjit Singh Miglani has been asked to head the team to oversee the evacuation of the aforesaid stranded pilgrims. Mr. Miglani would obtain requisite security personnel from ADGP (Security), a Medical team from Principal Secretary Health and Family Welfare and required number of buses from Principal Secretary Transport. Mr. Miglani has been directed to liaise with the Government of Uttrakhand and station himself at Chamoli/ Joshimath with immediate effect.

Mr. Miglani would report the progress of evacuation to Punjab Civil Control Room on a daily basis. Sub Divisional Magistrate, SAS Nagar (Mohali) Mr. Lakhmir Singh has also been asked to accompany Mr. Miglani for the rescue operations. It may be recalled that residents of Punjab who had gone on a pilgrimage to Sri Hemkunt Sahib (Uttrakhand) have got stranded due to heavy rains and reported damage to bridges and roads etc.

Meanwhile describing the scourge of floods in Uttarakhand as a National tragedy, the Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal assured full and immediate help from the state government to all those affected by nature’s fury regardless of their respective states or their destination of pilgrimage. He hoped that all the pilgrims would soon be brought back to their homes safe and sound. Mr. Badal mentioned that the main objective of the Punjab government at this critical hour was to expedite the rescue operation so that all the pilgrims stuck at Gobind Dham and other nearby places must be evacuated to safe places and further be brought back to their homes safely. He prayed the Almighty for the safety of all the people who were stranded in Uttarakhand.

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CM FELICITATES SATNAM SINGH BHAMARA FOR BRINGING LAURELS FOR STATE

CONGRATULATES FRIENDS AND RELATIVES OF SATNAM SINGH FOR BECOMING THE FIRST INDIAN BASKETBALL PLAYER TO BE DRAFTED IN THE NBA LEAGUE

Chandigarh, June 27-

Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today felicitated Barnala lad Satnam Singh Bhamara for making the state proud by becoming the first Indian basketball player to be drafted in the NBA League.

 In a congratulatory message, the Chief Minister said that it was a matter of great honour for all Punjabis that Bhamara who hails from Ballo Ke village in Barnala district had made niche in USA’s prestigious NBA league with his sheer hard work and dedication. He hoped that Satnam’s rare accomplishment would go a long way to inspire millions of his pears who strive hard to excel in the arena of sports.   

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BADAL MONITORS PROGRESS OF DEVELOPMENT WORKS OF QADIAN

DELEGATION OF JAMAT-E-AHMEDIYA CALLS ON CM

REVIEWS DEVELOPMENT WORKS IN NAKODAR ASSEMBLY SEGMENT

APPROVES BRICK LINING OF BIST DOAB CANAL AND ITS DISTRIBUTARIES

Chandigarh, June 26: Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today reviewed the progress of ongoing development projects in Qadian and asked the Local Government department to prepare a project report of remainder works so as to ensure that not even a single project was left unfinished.

Presiding over a meeting with the delegation of Ahmediya Community led by the Chairman Punjab State Technical Education Board Mr. Sewa Singh Sekhwan here at Chief Minister’s Residence this morning, Mr. Badal monitored the progress of various development projects and schemes in this historic town.

On the occasion, Mr. Sekhwan apprised the Chief Minister that the work on the disposal drain at a cost of Rs.25 crore as a part of the overall beautification of Qadian- the headquarter of Jamat-e-Ahmediya was being executed at full swing. This project would spruce the facelift of the town. He also informed that the works on the outer roads of the Qadian town have almost been completed but the repair work of internal roads was still pending. Mr. Sekhwan also sought directions from Chief Minister for the immediate repair of Street Lights which were not in working condition.

Responding to the development issues raised by Mr. Sekhwan, the Chief Minister said that no stone would be unturned to ensure overall development of Qadian as this historic town was known for its religious importance being the headquarter of Ahmediya Community which was committed for propagating the ethos of peace, harmony and brotherhood.

A representative of the Ahmediya Community informed the Chief Minister that their religious ambassador His Holiness Mirza Masoor Ahmad  Khalijat-ul-Masih Vth would participate in the religious congregation to be organized in the coming December at Qadian and also extended an invitation to the Chief Minister for the same. The delegation thanked the Chief Minister for his keen interest in the development works of the Qadian.

Meanwhile, Mr. Badal accepted their invitation and said he would certainly attend the function. The other members of the delegation included Shiraz Ahmad, Nasim Khan, Hafiz Makhdoom Sharif, Majid Mehmood, Ahsan Ghouri and Sami-ur-Rehman.

In another meeting with a deputation of local leaders and party workers of SAD led by MLA Nakodar Mr. Gurpartap Singh Wadala, the Chief Minister reviewed the progress of development works in the Nakodar Assembly Segment. Mr. Badal gave his nod to the project of Brick Lining of Bist Doab Canal and its distributaries and asked the Secretary Irrigation to immediately invite the tenders for it. He also approved the widening of Phillaur-Kapurthala Road and the construction of bridge over Chitti Bein near Village Sarai Kham in Nakodar. He also gave approval for the construction of 1.60 KM road to link the historical building of Jehangir Sarai in village Mallian Khurd.

Prominent amongst other who were present on the occasion included Additional Chief Secretary PWD Mr. N.S. Kalsi, Principal Secretary to Chief Minister Mr. S.K. Sandhu, Principal Secretary Higher Education Mr. Roshan Sunkaria, Secretary Rural Development Mr. A Venu Prasad and Secretary Irrigation Mr. K.S. Pannu.

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ATWAL MEETS DELEGATION OF GAUSEVA AND GAUCHAR VIKAS BOARD GUJARAT

APPRECIATES EFFORTS MADE BY BOARD FOR SAFEKEEPING OF COWS 

Chandigarh, June 26:

The Speaker of Punjab Vidhan Sabha Dr. Charanjit Singh Atwal today met a delegation of the Gauseva and Gauchar Vikas Board, Gujarat.

The delegation members, who were led by Chairman of the Board Dr. Vallabh Bhai Katharia, said that the cows are living in pathetic conditions without proper attention being paid for their upkeep. It is high time that strategies are formulated for their safekeeping as they are also the source of income especially to the rural population.

The delegation members said that it is for this purpose that the Board came into existence after consultations with various NGOs and experts and is currently touring the country.

Dr. Atwal appreciated the efforts being made by the delegation members and assured them of every possible help. He also presented mementos and shawls to all the delegation members.

            During the meeting Swami Chinmayanand, Divya Jyoti Jagriti Sansthan Nurmahal, Dr. Satish Kumar, Chief Scientist,CCMB, Hyderabad, Dr. Ranbir Singh, Scientist, IVRI,Dr. K.P. Singh Bhadauria,Military Farm, Gwalior, Pradip Gandhi, Ex-MP Chhatisgarh, Hariom Tayal and Kulbir Singh, D.D. Parashar, Brigadier (Retd.) R.R. Yadav, Prateek Sawalia, Dr. Dev Singh, Sudhir Aggarwal and Brajesh Mishra were also present.

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THANDAL MOURNS THE DEMISE OF LEGENDARY SCULPTOR SHIV SINGH

CHANDIGARH, JUNE 26:

Mr. Sohan Singh Thandal, Cultural Affairs Minister Punjab today expressed deep grief and sorrow over the demise of legendary sculptor Shiv Singh, who took his last breath after a brief illness here today.

In his condolence message Mr. Thandal said that Shiv Singh was one of the greatest artists, scuptors who brought art of Punjab on global landscape. He said that Shiv Singh who was born at Hoshiarpur in 1938 scaled the pinnacles of artistry portraying his aesthetical acumen in different streams of visual arts. He said that Shiv Singh was a gifted artist who practiced his artistic expertise in Painting and Designing but he was basically a Sculptor. Mr . Thandal said that recognising the contribution of Shiv Singh, the Punjab Government had accorded him state honour.

It is pertinent to mention that Shiv Singh studied at Punjab College of Arts from 1958 to 1963 first at Shimla and then at Chandigarh. He taught art at the Sainik School, Kapurthala till 1968. He retired as Professor of Arts in 1996 from Government Home Science College, Chandigarh.

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DG MGSIPA appointed Secretary Examination Committee

CHANDIGARH: 26 JUNE

The Punjab Government today appointed the Director General of Mahatma Gandhi State Institution of Public Administration as Secretary Examination Committee under Civil Services (Departmental Examinations) Punjab Rules, 2014.
          While disclosing this, the spokesmen of the Punjab Government said that a notification has already been issued in this regard.

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PUNJAB TO LAUNCH TOLL FREE HELPLINE FOR TB PATIENTS 

·        TB PATIENTS TO GET IMMEDIATE MEDICAL AID AT THEIR DOORSTEPS-----JAYANI  

Chandigarh June 26: The Punjab government is all set to launch a Toll Free Helpline no. 1800116666 to reach out to tuberculosis patients across the state. Any suspected patient can call or even give a missed call on the helpline number and government health workers will contact the person to check the status of TB as well as provide medical intervention.

Disclosing this here today Health Minister Mr. Surjit Kumar Jayani said that mobile and other telecommunication tools would be used in an inventive manner in this programme named 'Call to Action for TB Free India'.

The Minister also said that this in the absence of this system, patients had to face lot of difficulties to get information regarding TB on this exclusive toll free number. Control of this Toll free helpline Number would be at Gurgaon. Anybody who dials this no. or gives missed call to this number will get desired information by officers at Call Centre. He also said that if the problem is of serious nature then the caller would be given the number of concerned District TB Officer (DTO) for further investigations.

Mr. Jyani also said that a massive mass awareness campaign through multi-media campaign would be taken up as part of the Call to Action for a TB Free India. He appealed to various stakeholders across the private sector, civil society members, experts, doctors, patients and caregivers to be part of the movement to make India TB free.

The Health Minister stated that to achieve the vision of TB Free Punjab, the department would ensure 90% coverage of BCG under the Mission Indradhanush; reach out to the unreached; diagnose all TB cases within two weeks of symptoms and refer to the nearest public health center. He also asked the Health officers at the district levels to employ extensive use of rapid diagnostic kits and active screening of high risk population; and ensure treatment completion.

The Minister added that efforts will be made to ensure a rigorous follow up of treatment and ensure free treatment at the doorsteps, he stated. Emphasis would be laid on provision of comprehensive healthcare to TB patients.

The Minister has asked the Health officials to resolve the TB related problems within 48 hours. He made a fervent appeal to the residents of the state to utilize this service so as to eradicate the Tuberculosis from the state.

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OFFICERS/ EMPLOYEES TAKE PLEDGE AGAINST DRUGS TO MARK INTERNATIONAL ANTI DRUG AND ILLICIT DRUG TRAFFICKING DAY

 Chandigarh June 26: As a part of the massive awareness campaign launched against drugs and illicit drug trafficking in the state, more than 500 government officers and employees at Punjab civil secretariat took pledge against drugs and also to become instrumental in curbing the drugs and other intoxicants within family and friends circles.

                                              Addressing the officers and employees at Punjab Civil Secretariat premises, Harbhajan Singh, Under Secretary Secretariat Administration said that it was in the year 1987 the United Nations adopted the resolution to observe International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking to commemorate Lin Zexu's dismantle of the opium trade in just before the First Opium War in China.

                                              Similar Pledge taking ceremony was held in Punjab Civil Secretariat 2 where the officers and employees were administered Mr. Balwant Singh Joint Secretary General Administration. 

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DATE EXTENDED FOR RECOMMENDATIONS OF PADMA AWARDS

RECOMMENDATIONS TO BE SENT LATEST BY 16TH JULY

Chandigarh, June 26:

                                                         The Punjab Government has extended the last date for inviting recommendations from the public regarding Padma awards to be given during Republic Day, 2016 to be submitted to Union Government.

                                                         Disclosing this, an official spokesperson said that the recommendations must be sent latest by 16th July, 2015. An intimation regarding the same has also been sent to all the Divisional Commissioners and Deputy Commissioners

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BADAL ASKS POLITICAL PARTIES TO DESIST FROM MALIGNING PUNJAB FOR ITS VIGOROUS CAMPAIGN AGAINST DRUGS

·        SEEKS COOPERATION FROM ALL POLITICAL PARTIES TO STAMP OUT THIS MENACE WITH HEAVY HAND

·        UPSURGE IN THE TREND OF FARM SUICIDES- A MATTER OF DEEP CONCERN

·        ASKS CENTER TO TAKE UP CALL ON THIS SERIOUS ISSUE AND DEMANDS A JOINT COMMITTEE FOR ITS EARLY RESOLUTION

·        SANGAT DARSHAN PROGRAM IN DHURI ASSEMBLY SEGMENT

Ghanauri Kalan (Sangrur), June 25, 2015

Taking a strong exception to the statements issued by opposition parties on the drug menace, the Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal said that the state was already fighting a national battle against this serious problem and thus exhorted all the political parties instead of indulging in false propaganda to malign the state they should rather join hands to extend all support and cooperation to the state government at this crucial juncture.

Talking to the media persons on the sidelines of his Sangant Darshan program in Dhuri Assembly Segment, Mr. Badal said that Punjab alone was fighting the nation’s war against drugs despite the fact that it was now a cosmopolitan problem across the globe. The worst part of the story, Mr. Badal lamented that few political parties brushing aside the ground realities were bent upon to malign the hard working Punjabis through this malicious campaign. He categorically said that none of any drug was produced in Punjab rather tough posture adopted by the state government against drug traffickers was painted in a wrong perspective. Mr. Badal said that geographically Punjab was in closed vicinity of international border and the neighbouring countries along with it ventured hard to smuggle drugs like Heroine freely across this route through Punjab but their nefarious efforts were badly foiled by the state government through initiating stringent steps to break this supply line. He further said that even the synthetic drugs were not at all prepared in our state but when our state took on these bad elements sternly, unfortunately the opposition parties started maligning us.

Referring to the steps taken by the state government for the rehabilitation of the drug addicts, the Chief Minister said that our government was setting up drug de-addiction and rehabilitation centres in every district so as to enable the drug addicts to lead a happy life with respect and dignity after having been detoxified. He mentioned that such rehabilitation centres for drug addicts would be inaugurated at Hoshiarpur on June 26.

Showing deep concern over the high incidence of farm suicides in the recent past across the state, the Chief Minister said that it was really a deplorable and unfortunate situation because the agriculture was no more a remunerative occupation. He opined that the problems and issues related to it must be addressed on the top most priority as agriculture was the backbone of the Indian economy. He pointed out that the fixation of the prices of agriculture inputs and crops were within the control of Center and it should immediately take remedial measures to ensure better remunerative prices to the farmers especially in the wake of narrowing down the margins of profit day by day. Mr. Badal suggested that a joint committee comprising; Center, State and Farmers should come forward to find out a viable solution to resolve these issues for ensuring security to the farmers as the as the unhealthy prevailing trend of committing suicides by the farmers was very pathetic.

Asked to comment on the status of development projects in Sangrur city, the Chief Minister said that the state government had already fulfilled the demand of the local residents to construct new bus stand by laying its foundation stone and the PRTC would begin its construction work within next 10 days.

He also announced to open a special school in Sangrur district to impart quality education to the intelligent but economically poor students free of cost, who secured 80% or above marks in the Class 10th from the government schools. He said such schools have already been opened in Mohali, Amritsar, Patiala, Bathinda, Jalandhar and Ludhiana and the upcoming school at Sangrur would also be established on the similar lines.

Prominent amongst others who were present on the occasion included SAD Secretary General Mr. Sukhdev Singh Dhindsa, Cabinet Minister Mr. Sharanjit Singh Dhillon, MLA Dhuri Mr. Gobind Singh Longowal, Special Principal Secretary to Chief Minister Mr. K.J.S Cheema and Deputy Commissioner Sangrur Mr. Arshdeep Singh Thind.

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 BADAL MOURNS SAD DEMISE OF THE MOTHER OF PPCC PRESIDENT

SHARE CONDOLENCES WITH BEREAVED FAMILY IN THE HOUR OF GRIEF

 Chandigarh, June 25: Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today expressed profound grief and sorrow over the sad demise of Mrs. Gurbachan Kaur (85), the mother of Punjab Pradesh Congress Committee President Mr. Partap Singh Bajwa.

In a condolence message, the Chief Minister prayed to the Almighty to grant courage to the members of the bereaved family, friends and relatives to bear this huge loss in this hour of grief and grant peace to the eternal soul.

It may be recalled that she passed away at her native village Qadian in Gurdaspur district this morning after a brief illness. She was the wife of Late S. Satnam Singh Bajwa, Ex-Minister Punjab and the mother-in-law of the sitting MLA from Qadian Smt. Charanjit Kaur Bajwa.

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Delegation of real estate developers calls on Deputy CM

(Sukhbir Badal asks development authorities to look into the genuine issues of Realtors)

 Chandigarh, June 25:

Punjab Deputy Chief Minister Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal today asked the local bodies and development authorities to look into the issues of real estate developers and come out with needful recommendations to resolve their genuine grievances.

Deputy CM gave this directive when a delegation of realtors called on him at his residence with a demand to provide relief on ED charges.

            Seeking personal intervention of Mr. Badal, the members of delegation led by Jarnail Singh Bajwa of Sunny Enclave apprised demanded that the external development charges should be rationalised as these were very high besides early solution of their pending issues.

After hearing the delegation patiently, Mr. Badal asked the delegation to submit a detailed charter of demands to him so that adequate steps could be taken for their facilitation. Mr. Badal also fixed next meeting with the realtors on July 24 to discuss their demands. He said that on the demand of developers, Punjab Government had already rationalised (lowered) the collectors rates almost in all districts and assured that their pending issues would also be sorted out.

            He said Punjab has introduced new housing policy, full advantage of which should be taken by the developers with a focus on affordable houses to economically weaker sections (EWS) of society. He also informed the delegation that in one year Punjab would extend all basic amenities in urban as well as rural areas of the state at a cost of Rs. 4000.

            Prominent among others present in the meeting included Principal Secretary to Deputy Chief Minister P.S. Aujla, Special Principal Secretary to Deputy CM Rahul Tiwari, Rajesh Agarwal Vice Chairman PSIDC, Jarnail Singh Bajwa, Amrit Lal Aggarwal, Amrik Singh Chawla, Jashanpreet Singh Chawla, R.K. Goel, Krishna Sharma Kuku, Amardeep Singh, Kapil Mehra, Sat Dev, Ashok Malhotra, Mohinder Goel, Rupinder Chawla, Deepak Ratra, Balraj Bhasin and Major Singh. EOM

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 ROTATIONAL IRRIGATION PROGRAMME FOR KHRIFF SEASON    ANNOUNCED

CHANDIGARH, JUNE 25:

The Irrigation Department, Punjab has announced the Rotational Programme for irrigation for the Khriff Season through Canal water from 26-06-2015 to 03-07-2015. The channels of Sirhind Canal System would run on the priority basis from Bist Doab, Sidhwan Branch, Bathinda Branch, Patiala feeder and Abohar Branch  respectively.

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

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

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

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PUNJAB TRANSFERS SIX TEHSILDARS AND TWO NAIB TEHSILDARS

CHANDIGARH, JUNE 25:

          The Punjab Government has issued transfer orders of six Tehsildars and two Naib Tehsildars with immediate effect. According to an official spokesman Mr. Gurcharan Singh Brar has been posted as Tehsildar at Balachaur, Mr. Amarjit Singh at Dharamkot, Mr. Gurjit Singh at Ajnala, Mr. Jarnail Singh at Fazilka, Mr. Data Parsad Pandey at Amloh and Mr. Jaswant Rai at PWD Jalandhar.

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MAJOR BOOST TO AGRO BASED INDUSTRY IN THE STATE

CM DEDICATES STATE-OF-THE ART CANNERY SET UP BY PUNJAB MARKFED TO THE NATION

MOVE AIMED AT BENEFITTING THE FARMERS OF THE STATE ON ONE HAND AND GIVING MAJOR FILLIP TO THE AGRO BASED INDUSTRY IN THE STATE ON THE OTHER

BATS FOR MSP FOR MAIZE

EXHORTS CORPORATES TO SET UP SIMILAR AGRO BASED UNITS FOR BAILING OUT THE FARMERS FROM THE CURRENT AGRARIAN CRISIS.

SEEKS BETTER MARKETING MECHANISM FOR MARKFED PRODUCTS BOTH WITHIN THE COUNTRY AND ABROAD

LAYS FOUNDATION STONE OF MARKFED HONEY PROCESSING PLANT

CALLS UPON THE FARMERS TO ADOPT DIVERSIFICATION OF AGRICULTURE

Chuharwali (Jalandhar), June 24, 2015

In a major leap forward towards promoting agro-based Industry in the state, the Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today dedicated the state-of-the Art CannerYy set up by Punjab Markfed to the nation, here today.

Set up with a twin objective of benefitting the farmers of the state on one hand and giving major fillip to the industry in the state on the other this cannery has been set at a cost of approximately Rs.50 crore.  The new Unit has tripled the production capacity with regard to the old Unit and it was equipped to produce 66 lakh cans and 48 lakh pouches of Ready to Eat Food per annum. In addition, it would produce 5.60 lac cans of Fruit in Syrup and 18 lac bottles of Ketchup and Jam every year. Likewise, the Spices Grinding Line would produce 11 lakh pouches of various spices every year.  The Plant was fully automated with State of the Art grinding and packaging lines making it one of the most advanced Plants of its kind in the country. 

Addressing the gathering on the occasion, the Chief Minister recalled the glorious contribution of Markfed, which had started as a small entity in the year 1954 with a total capital of Rs.50,000 but today it was one of the leading corporates with a business turnover of more than Rs.12,000 crore per annum.  Lauding this premier cooperative of the state, Mr. Badal said that much of its activities were farmer oriented and Markfed has been at the fore front in the supply of DAP, Urea, Agro Chemicals, Cattlefeed, Vegetable Oils and other products to farmers across the state in a time bound manner at an affordable cost. Congratulating Markfed for establishing a State of the Art Cannery Unit, he exhorted the Corporates  to set up Agro based Units in the State on similar lines so as to bail out the farmers from the current agrarian crisis. 

The Chief Minister said that Markfed products were globally popular which speaks volumes about their quality and hygiene. He said that nearly 88% of the production of the old Markfed Canneries was exported to the highly developed nations such as United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, European nations and Gulf. Mr. Badal hoped that now these internationally established products would be marketed on a much larger scale in order to provide top quality Ready to Eat products to the consumers both within the country and abroad. 

Batting for proper marketing mechanism for the maize crop, the Chief Minister said that he would take up this issue with the Government of India (GoI) for giving MSP on it like wheat and paddy. He said that for improving farm income, diversification of agriculture along with value addition of produce was essential for which state Agriculture Department has identified Maize as alternative crop to break the rotation of wheat and paddy, making agriculture not only more sustainable but also environment friendly. He said that under its flagship program of crop diverfsication, the state government has decided to increase area under Maize by reducing the area under rice cultivation.  However, Mr. Badal said that such a target would be difficult to achieve unless Government of India (GoI) decides to procure maize at a minimum support price from the farmers.

The Chief Minister, who also laid the foundation stone of Markfed Honey Processing Plant, while underscoring the need for diversification of agriculture, exhorted the farmers to adopt allied farming activities such as goatery, piggery, Bee Keeping and others to supplement their income. He said that the basic motive of establishing a 3000 MT Honey Processing Unit of such a large production capacity in the Cooperative Sector was to benefit the farmers and enhance the production of the Honey. Mr. Badal also called upon the farmers to come forward and adopt Bee Keeping since it was financially remunerative on account of generous subsidy being provided in this regard by the State Government.

The Chief Minister was accompanied by Chief Parliamentary Secretaries Mr.  Pawan Teenu and Mr. KD Bhandari, Chairman Marked Mr. Jarnail Singh Wahid,  Chairman District Planning Committee Tarn Taran Mr. Ravinder Singh Brahmpura,  Principal Secretary to Chief Minister Mr.  SK Sandhu,  MD Markfed Mr.  Gurkirat Kirpal Singh, Commissioner Jalandhar Division Mr. R. Venkatratnam, Deputy Inspector General of Police Mr.  Kunwar Vijay Partap and Deputy Commissioner Mr.  KK Yadav.

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CM RULES OUT ANY POSSIBILITY OF RE-IMPOSITION OF EMERGENCY IN THE COUNTRY

TERMS EMERGENCY AS BLACK SPOT ON INDIAN POLITY

SAD HAD OPPOSED EMERGENCY AS PER PATH SHOWN BY GREAT SIKH GURUS

YOGA NOT REFLECTIVE OF HINDUTVA AGENDA

LIQUOR VENDS TO BE REGULARIZED AS PER LAW OF LAND

Chuharwali (Jalandhar), June 24, 2015

Terming Emergency imposed by Indira Government in 1975 as a black spot on Indian Polity, the Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today completely ruled out any possibility of its re-imposition in the country.

Interacting with the media persons on the sidelines of inauguration of Markfed cannery here today, the Chief Minister said that the punishment given to the perpetrators of this heinous crime against democracy, by the people, would ever act as a deterrent for anybody to repeat this mistake again. Recalling the black days of emergency, he said that it was a darkest hour for democracy as both the political class from opposition and press were crushed by those in power. However, Mr. Badal said that currently there was no such threat to Indian democracy at this juncture as the routing of Indira government in post emergency era had given a befitting lesson to anti-democratic forces. 

The Chief Minister, who was imprisoned during the emergency, said that Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) had opposed this dictatorial move of Indira government despite of the feelers sent by the union government to support the move.  However, he said that the SAD followed the footsteps of great Sikh gurus who had always taught them to oppose injustice, tyranny and oppression.  Mr.  Badal said that it was a matter of conscience and moral values for them due to which the entire Akali leadership fought the battle against emergency from the front and courted arrest against the draconian policies of Indira government. 

Refuting the allegations that yoga was being imposed on people as Hindutva agenda, the Chief Minister said that yoga was completely concerned with the physical fitness.  He said that yoga was very essential for a fit body and sound mind and it must not be viewed through political angle. “I myself practice yoga daily to remain fit and fine”, he added. 

Replying to another query pertaining to letter written by BJP Vice President Mr. Avinash Rai Khanna for regularisation of hours of liquor vends,  the Chief Minister said that he would look into the matter.  He said that the action in this case would be taken as per the law of land. 

The Chief Minister was accompanied by Chief Parliamentary Secretaries Mr.  Pawan Teenu and Mr. KD Bhandari, Chairman Marked Jarnail Singh Wahid,  Chairman District Planning Committee Tarn Taran Mr. Ravinder Singh Brahmpura,  Principal Secretary to Chief Minister Mr.  SK Sandhu,  MD Markfed Mr.  Gurkirat Kirpal Singh,  Deputy Inspector General of Police Mr.  Kunwar vijay Partap and Deputy Commissioner Mr.  KK Yadav.

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Canadian High Commissioner calls on Deputy Chief Minister

(Sukhbir Badal invites Canadian entrepreneurs to invest in Punjab)

 Chandigarh, June 24 - Punjab Deputy chief minister Sukhbir Singh Badal today invited Canadian entrepreneurs to invest in Punjab in the field of education, infrastructure development, food processing and solar energy even as he assured fastest possible clearances for their projects.

 The Deputy chief minister extended this invitation when Canadian High Commissioner Nadir Patel called upon here today evening.  During the interaction, the Deputy chief minister said besides the close people to people interaction between the two countries which was resulting areas of mutual interest, Canadian investors could benefit in investing in several key areas in Punjab. "We in Punjab are taking a number of pioneering steps including creating a Edu-city besides establishing solar parks and even creating 2 million tonnes of silo capacity. Canadian investors can be partners in these works", he added.

 Mr Badal also highlighted how Canadian food companies could invest in the food processing sector in Punjab. He said Canada possessed technical expertise in agriculture which could be used to upgrade agricultural practices in Punjab.

 The Deputy CM highlighted how the Punjab government had cut red tape and made investment into the State an easy and transparent process. "We have created a new department in Punjab Invest whose CEO has the powers of several departmental heads. This ensures that all clearances for new units are awarded expeditiously". He said currently the department was taking a little above one month to give all clearances needed for new investment. "We can assure you the fastest possible clearances", he added.

 The Canadian envoy Mr Nadir Patel said Canadian investors were keen to invest in agriculture besides large scale commercial and mixed use land development besides other fields. He said there was a huge scope in investment in the education sector. "We are keen to partner with the Punjab government after identifying the areas we can move forward on".

 Mr Nadir Patel said the Canadian team would submit a firm proposal on areas in which it would like to invest in Punjab shortly. EOM

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CM GIVES NOD TO SET UP CENTRE OF EXCELLENCE FOR MUSHROOM CULTIVATION AT PAU

UPCOMING CENTRE TO IMPART LATEST KNOW-HOW AND TECHNOLOGY TO THE MUSHROOM GROWERS ACROSS THE STATE

Chandigarh, June 24: In a bid to provide the latest technology to the Mushroom growers across the state, the Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today approved to establish a Centre of excellence for the mushroom cultivation at Punjab Agriculture University (PAU), Ludhiana. This step was aimed at giving further impetus to the state government’s ambitious program of agriculture diversification.

A decision to this effect was taking by Mr. Badal during a meeting with the senior officers of the Agriculture department, experts from Punjab Agriculture University and the progressive mushroom growers of the state here at Chief Minister’s Office this morning.

Taking part in the deliberations, the Chief Minister asked the Vice Chancellor of PAU to immediately submit the detailed project report in this regard so that the proposed centre of excellence could be set up at the earliest. He hoped the centre would cater to the needs of mushroom growers and primarily focus on the issues related to quality supply of mushroom seeds, marketing support, processing and the new technologies to save their crops from the vagaries of weather.

Conceding another demand of the mushroom growers, Mr. Badal decided to levy power tariff from the mushroom growers at par as being levied in the agriculture sector. He also assured full support and cooperation to such growers, who intended to have special power supply line for getting uninterrupted electricity.

To make our mushroom growers conversant with the emerging technologies in this field, the Chief Minister asked the Additional Chief Secretary Development to send a delegation of local mushroom growers to China, the only country in the world which catered to almost 80% of total mushroom production at global level. He said our farmers were very receptive to the new and the latest technologies to enhance their income provided they were imparted the requisite knowledge and expertise by the researchers from time to time. Mr. Badal also directed the VC to set up a modern demonstration plant for mushroom cultivation at PAU so as to educate the farmers to establish their own units on the scientific lines. Addressing the issue of scarce supply of mushroom seeds, the Chief Minister asked the PAU to tie up with the Krishi Vigyan Kendras in the state to ensure the high quality seeds to the mushroom growers.

The Chief Minister also asked Dr. Manjit Singh, Ex-Director, Directorate of Mushroom Research, Solan (HP) to provide latest know-how and technology to the PAU to carry forward this project to popularize the concept of mushroom cultivation in a big way.

Prominent amongst others who were present in the meeting included Agriculture Minister Jathedar Tota Singh, Additional Chief Secretary Development Mr. Suresh Kumar, Principal Secretary to Chief Minister Mr. S.K. Sandhu, Vice Chancellor of PAU Dr. B.S. Dhillon and MD Punjab Agro Mr. K.S. Pannu. 

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CANADIAN HIGH COMMISSIONER NADIR PATEL CALLS ON CM

·       OFFERS TO FORGE COLLABORATIONS IN SKILL DEVELOPMENT, AGRICULTURE, EDUCATION, RENEWABLE ENERGY AND NUTRITION

·       BADAL CALLS FOR MECHANISM TO FOLLOW UP THESE DECISIONS FOR SPEEDY IMPLEMENTATION

CHANDIGARH June 24:

Canadian Envoy to India Mr. Nadir Patel today evinced keen interest in collaboration with the Punjab Government in varied fields of skill development, agriculture, food processing, education, renewable energy, nutrition besides dairying and livestock management.

A Canadian delegation led by Mr. Patel called on Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal here at his residence this afternoon.

During his interaction with the Chief Minister, Mr. Nadir Patel said that there was a huge scope of bilateral cooperation in these areas as both Punjab and Canada had demonstrated their strength and dominance in agriculture and allied farming due to their vast experience and expertise.  He apprised the Chief Minister that both Punjab and the several provinces of Canada were already working closely in the field of Veterinary sciences adding that there was tremendous potential for the mutual cooperation in the other allied sectors of agriculture and animal husbandry. The visiting High Commissioner also assured Mr. Badal of every technical help in the arena of food technology, food processing, nutrition and Agri bio-technology. He also offered to forge an alliance in the nutrition sector through signing a MoU between the PAU Ludhiana and Memorial University, St. John’s.

Earlier, taking part in deliberations the Chief Minister, while recalling the historic and strong ties between Punjab and Canada, informed Mr. Nadir Patel that for all Punjabis ‘Canada was a second home’. He said that as both were primarily agrarian economies with very strong agriculture base so as to mutually benefit from technology transfer, cooperation and support. Mr. Badal urged the Canadian High Commissioner to carry forward the proposals mutually agreed upon by both of them to its logical end so that these should not merely confine to the papers. He said that Punjab and Canada would soon have strategic alliance in the area of skill development, agriculture, nutrition and bio-technology.

Underscoring the need for students and teachers exchange program, Mr. Badal said that the modalities in this regard could be worked out and formulated mutually by the senior functionaries of the state education department and the Premier Educational Institutions of Canada. He also laid thrust on need of Farmers' Exchange Program for fast and easy transfer of technologies to the fields for introducing new and scientific farm practices to the Punjabi farmers. He invited leading educational institutions and universities from Canada to collaborate with the state government to set up their campuses at the upcoming Edu-city and Medicity near Chandigarh.

The Chief Minister was accompanied by Additional Chief Secretary Development Mr. Suresh Kumar, Principal Secretary to CM Mr. SK Sandhu, Principal Secretary Health & Family Welfare Mrs. Vinni Mahajan, Principal Secretary School Education Mr. C. Roul, Secretary Local Government Mr. Ashok Gupta and MD Punjab Agro Mr. KS Pannu,  

The visiting delegation comprised Consul General, Canadian Consulate in Chandigarh Ms Rajni Alexander, Trade Commissioner Mr. Gurbans Sobti and Mr. Jens Michael Schaal, Counsellor (Commercial-Onratio), Ontario International Marketing Centre. 

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 BIG BOOST TO PUNJAB’S ROOF TOP SOLAR POWER PLANTS INITIATIVE

BANKS JOIN THE SOLAR POWER REVOLUTION BY OFFERING EMI BASED FINANCING OF HOME SOLAR PLANTS

IDBI LAUNCHES SURYA SHAKTI SCHEME FOR FINANCING ROOF TOP SOLAR POWER PLANTS FOR INDIVIDUAL HOUSEHOLDS

Chandigarh, June 24: The Punjab government’s unique initiative of setting up of individual Roof Top solar power plants is all set to become a mass movement as renowned bank IDBI has launched a new scheme “Surya Shakti” for financing such projects thereby promoting clean energy to save environment in a big way.

According to Mr. Bikram Singh Majithia, New & Renewable Energy Minister it was high time for financial institutions and banks to provide easy credit to solar power developers and the IDBI Surya Shakti scheme was a big step in this direction further giving a big fillip to encourage individual households to generate their own power to cut their power bills. It may be mentioned here that Mr. Majithia recently had a detailed meeting with leading financial institutions and banks namely IREDA, Power Finance Corporation Ltd., L & T Infra Finance, IDBI, ADB, NABARD, Bank of India, Tata Power Solar for financing upcoming solar power plants in Punjab.

The Minister pointed out that the state’s present NRSE power generation capacity was 811 MW and it was planned to take this capacity to 5400 MW by 2022. He said that the state’s initiatives in Renewable energy have an estimated investment potential of 33000 Crore & out of which 23000 Crore was the financing requirement, which could only be met with liberal financing/credit by banks. Describing net metering a revolutionary step in the direction of producing clean & green energy, Mr. Majithia said that when each household generates its own solar energy, it not only contributes towards environmental protection, money saving but also lays down the foundation for a responsible society. He further added that use of solar energy would be a great gift by our generation to future generations, as it will ensure that we pass on a healthy non-polluted environment.

Mr Majithia said that the decision of Government of India to include the Home Solar Roof Top projects as part of the Home Loan, thereby making them eligible for income tax concession along with other components of Home loan and with Banks bringing out specific EMI based schemes days are not far when Home based Solar Power Generation becomes a mass movement. .

According to newly launched Surya Shakti scheme individuals/joint individuals are eligible for loan up to 60 percent of project cost subject to maximum of Rs. 10 lac per borrower. It is worth mentioning here that the cost of 5 KWp plant ideal for a three bedroom house is about Rs. 5 lac and around Rs. 6 lac with battery backup. Out of which Rs. 60,000/- will be subsidy @ Rs. 12000/- per KW and bank will finance Rs. 3 lac. The maximum repayment period will be 7 years and repayment will be in equated monthly installments (EMIs).

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PUNJAB TO GIVE INCENTIVES TO THE MEDICAL OFFICERS OPTING FOR BORDER AREAS-JAYANI

·      JAYANI ASKS CIVIL SURGEONS TO ENSURE ADEQUATE SECURITY IN THE EMERGENCY WARDS

 Chandigarh June 24: The Punjab government is in the process of finalizing a plan to give incentives to the Medical Officers opting for border area postings after appointment.

       This was stated here today by Health Minister Mr. Surjit Kumar Jayani while presiding over the meeting of the Civil Surgeons. Addressing the civil surgeons, Mr. Jayani said that it was for the first time that the government was offering incentives to the Medical Officers who have opted for placements in the Border areas during the initial years of their appointment.

       He said that to overcome the issues of staff shortage, the civil surgeons have been asked to recruit staff nurses, lab technicians, radiographers, security and sanitation staff, electricians and plumbers on daily wages on rates approved by the deputy commissioners.

       He has directed the Civil Surgeons to ensure that the patients should not suffer because of the inadequacies in the hospitals. He has categorically asked them to ensure proper health care facilities in all the district hospitals especially where there was a heavy rush in OPDs.

       Expressing concern over the inadequate security arrangements in the Emergency wards where women staff is posted in odd hours, Mr. Jayani has asked Civil Surgeons to appoint trained security guards on daily wages so that the emergent situations could be handled even in the medico-legal cases or late night brawls.

       Addressing the Civil Surgeons, Principal Secretary Health Ms. Vini Mahajan directed them to ensure the opening of the clinical laboratories in the civil hospitals by 6 in the evening. She has also asked the civil surgeons to ensure that the uninterrupted emergency serviced be remained available to people. Adding further she said that the doctors performing good services would be honored.  

       Speaking on the occasion MD NHM/Secretary Health, Mr Hussan Lal has directed the Senior Medical Officers to interact with patients especially those who were undergoing treatment in the hospital wards and resolve their problems on the spot. He has also asked them to ensure adequate stock of medicines and other material required and also ensure proper implementation of the programmes, schemes and plans formulated at the GOI level regarding health.

       Prominent amongst others who were present in the meeting included Special Secretary Health, Mr. Vikas Garg, Director Health Dr. Jatinder Kaur, Director Family Welfare Dr. Bhag Mal and all the senior officers of the department.

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PUNJAB ANNOUNCES 50 PERCENT SUBSIDY FOR ALL DISTRICTS ON FISH FARMING

·       ANIMAL HUSBANDRY MINISTER RANIKE RELEASES Rs. 3 CRORE

·         EXHORTS FARMERS TO OPT FOR FISH FARMING

 Chandigarh, June 24:

            The Punjab Government today announced 50 percent subsidy for all districts on fish farming besides releasing Rs. 3 crore for the districts out of the affect of water logging.

Disclosing this here today Animal Husbandry, Dairy Development and Fisheries Minister Mr. Gulzar Singh Ranike 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 Punjab has unlimited possibilities in fish farming in bet belts, village ponds etc. He said that this subsidy would prove a boon for the farmers having lands in saline areas and on the banks of Satluj, Beas, Ghaggar rivers.  

Meanwhile, Director Fisheries Mr. Inderjit Singh informed 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. He said that this is the appropriate time for digging of ponds and putting fish seeds to start fish farming. He also informed that the desirous farmers could contact Deputy Director Fisheries in their respective districts or get requisite information from the helpline number of department 0172-2705827.

It is pertinent to mention here that Punjab has 37000 acres land under fish farming. He said that department was being provided five day training at all fish seed farms in the districts on first and third Monday of every month for the facilitation of fish farmers and farmers should take full advantage of this.

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GOVERNMENT OFFICERS TO TAKE PLEDGE AGAINST DRUGS AND ILLICIT DRUG TRAFFICKING

 Chandigarh June 24: The Punjab government has issued directions to all the officers posted in the Main and Mini Secretariats to ensure their presence on the International day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Drug Trafficking to be observed on June 26, 2015.

        Disclosing this here today a spokesperson of the government said that on the International day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Drug Trafficking, Mr. K.A.P. Sinha IAS, Secretary General Administration, would administer pledge to the officers/employees at 11 am in Punjab Civil Secretariat premises while Mr. Balwant Singh PCS Additional Secretary General Administration would administer similar pledge to the officers/employees in Punjab Civil Secretariat-2.

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SPORTS AND YOUTH AFFAIRS DEPARTMENT APPOINTS GURMEET SINGH AS NODAL OFFICER

TO REDRESS GRIEVANCES RECEIVED DURING ONLINE SANGAT DARSHAN

Chandigarh, June 24:

The Sports and Youth Affairs Department, Punjab, today appointed Mr. Gurmeet Singh in place of Special Secretary Mr. Tejinder Singh Dhaliwal, I.A.S. for the redressal of grievances related to the department received during online Sangat Darshan of Deputy Chief Minister.

Disclosing this, a spokesperson of the department said that this step has been taken by the department to ensure prompt and expeditious redressal of the grievances in consonance with the policy of the department. The spokesperson also said that the Nodal Officer can be reached at Room No.-612, 6th Floor, Punjab Civil Secretariat-2, Sector-9, Chandigarh and/or House No.—1233, Phase-10, Mohali, Mobile No.---9878924433, landline No.—0172-2742243.

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NEWLY OPENED REPTILE CENTRE DRAWS FLOCKS OF EAGER VISITORS 

·  8 rare species of reptiles attracting visitors

·         Reptile enclosures covered with specially designed glass panels

Chandigarh, June 24:

 The much awaited reptile centre recently opened to the public at at Mahendra Chaudhury Zoological Park, Chhatbir is attracting flocks of visitors specially coming to have a look at rare species of reptiles.

 Disclosing this, a spokesperson of the Forest and Wildlife Preservation Department, Punjab said that the reptile centre, one of its kind in any zoo of the country, has drawn attention from wildlife enthusiasts, students of science and visitors from all over country who are eager to have a look at the unique reptile centre inside zoo.

 According to the spokesperson the Department has taken this one of its kind initiative to conserve wildlife and to bring varied varieties of species of reptiles to the zoo.

  He said that zoo has been making efforts to procure rare species of reptiles from all over world and has been able to procure common monitor lizard, yellow monitor lizard, Indian flap shell turtle, red sand boa, rock python, Burmese python, spectacled cobra (naag) and rat snake.  

 He said that an exhaustive study was conducted to understand environment in which these reptiles nourished and Chhatbir zoo in consultation with wildlife experts constructed 9 special chambers conducive to the environment of each species of reptiles.

 The spokesperson also said that utmost care is being taken to ensure the preservation of these species and for this very reason the reptiles are being kept in special enclosures for better display and to fulfil their natural activities. Each of the enclosures is covered with the specially designed glass panels from the viewing side for better visibility.

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SPEAKER PUNJAB VIDHAN SABHA CHAIRS MEETING TO DISCUSS AFTEREFFECTS OF GAS LEAK TRAGEDY

·        JOINT TEAM OF NHAI AND VARIOUS DEPARTMENTS WOULD VISIT THE INCIDENT SITE ON JUNE 25

CHANDIGARH, JUNE 24:

A high level meeting was today held under the chairmanship of Dr. Charanjit Singh Atwal, Speaker, Punjab Vidhan Sabha to discuss the aftereffects of the horrific incident of ammonia gas leak tragedy at Doraha in which 6 innocent persons had died.

Disclosing this here today an official spokesperson of the Punjab Vidhan Sabha said that during the meeting serious concern was expressed about this gas leak tragedy and it was decided that a joint team of Irrigation Department, PWD (B & R), Drainage Department, National Highway Authority of India and district administration of Luhdiana would visit the accident site in Doraha on June 25 at 11 a.m. This team would investigate the reasons responsible for this terrible incident and eventually would submit report for the everlasting solution so that such kind of incident could be averted in future.

Dr. Atwal also brought the issue of waterlogging in Doraha into the notice concerned department. It was observed that the absence of proper system for the drainage of rain water was the reason behind this perennial problem of waterlogging. After deliberation upon this issue it was decided that Public Works Department keeping the ensuing Monsoon in mind would immediately make arreagement for the drainage of the rain water by putting pipes. It was also decided that Atlanta Tollways Company would complete the construction of drain by June 30, along the way of under construction Luhiana-Ropar 4 lane road so that rain water could be diverted to Patiala Feeder Canal. Executive Officer, Municipal Council Doraha was also instructed to complete all the necessary arrangements for the drainage of rain water.

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     FOUR TIME RECORD HOLDER WEIGHTLIFTER PARDEEP HONORED BY DR. CHEEMA

CHANDIGARH, JUNE 24:

Dr. Daljit Singh Cheema, Education Minister today felicitated Mr. Pardeep Singh who won laurels for the state by begging four Gold Medals in the Junior National Weightlifting Championship and set up new national records.

Visually ecstatic Dr. Cheema garlanded Pardeep Singh for his rare feat of claiming four Gold Medals in the national event that too after setting new game records. Dr. Cheema said that that it is matter of great pride for the education department that a lad of Government School has clinched 4 gold medals. It is pertinent of mention that Pardeep has recently led the Indian sportpersons’ contingent to the Junior World Championship held in Poland in this month.

Meanwhile Mr. Balbir Singh Dhol, DPI (Secondary and Elementary Education) and Mr. Sarbjit Singh Toor, Deputy Director (Sports) handed over the trophies, which were presented to Punjab state by School Games Federation of India, to Dr. Cheema.

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STEPS TO BE TAKEN TO IMPROVE ENGLISH LANGUAGE TEACHING

·       EDUCATION MINISTER MEETS TEACHERS

·       SPECIAL TRAINING WOULD BE GRANTED TO THE TEACHERS

·       27 TEACHERS PROMOTED AS HEAD MASTERS AND 12 GET APPOINTMENT LETTERS ON COMPASSIONATE GROUNDS

SAS NAGAR MOHALI, 24 JUNE

Dr. Daljit Singh Cheema, Education Minister, Punjab has asked the teachers to ensure the academic standards of the government schools and improve the education system.

Presiding over a meeting of 10 English teachers from each district, Dr. Cheema reviewed current academic years’ matriculation result in which around 80,000 students failed in English language.

To reach to a logical conclusion of this massive failure, Dr. Cheema prepared a questionnaire for the English teachers in which he has asked them to write down the reasons of the failure and also sought suggestions regarding further improvement in result of especially English language.

Meanwhile he had an in person communication with the teachers for such a low result. The scanned copies of questionnaire were projected on screen and Dr. Cheema directly discussed the questionnaire and subsequent replies of the teachers with the senior officers of the department of Education. Most of the suggestions and reasons given by the teacher were inappropriate like student belonged to poor families, inadequate staff, students not willing to attend the classes etc.

The Minister expressed concern over the deteriorating academic standards in the schools and said the teachers were more responsible for the decline than the students. It was a matter of grave concern that the replies given by the teachers projected on the screen were full of grammatical errors and lower standard of English, which signified that even teachers were not capable of giving good lessons of English to the students.

He directed all the officials related to education department to collect the suitable suggestions and reasons so that the system could be rectified as soon as possible and better results in the field of education could be drawn. The Minister also said if any changes required in the academic syllabi or in the current policies regarding education that should also be brought under consideration.

During the course of the meeting, Dr. Cheema said also said that the department of education was always opened to suggestions and would cooperate and support the teachers for the betterment of the students. He also mentioned that student’s poor economic conditions, areas backwardness and assigning the teachers to other duties could not be the reasons behind such a massive failure of the students. He argued further saying that there were some schools which had the same infrastructure and conditions but have shown comparatively better results.

Concluding the meeting, the Minister said that the teachers would be given proper training session especially teaching English language and appealed to the teacher to ensure right type of teaching so as to improve the academic standards in government schools.

In another programme after the meeting as many as 27 teachers were promoted to the post of head masters and were handed over the appointment letters according to their opted stations. Dr Cheema also handed over job letters to 12 persons on compassionate ground.

Prominent among others who were present in the meeting included DGSE, Mr. Pradeep Kumar Aggarwal, DPI Mr. Balbir Singh Dhol, Deputy State Project Director Dr. Ginni Duggal and other senior officials of the department.

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M REVIEW PROSPECTS OF MAIZE AND BASMATI IN STATE

 CONSTITUTES SUB-GROUP TO ADDRESS ALL ISSUES FROM SOWING TILL MARKETING OF MAIZE

SEEKS PROCUREMENT OF MAIZE AT MSP THROUGH CENTRAL AGENCY

APPEAL FARMERS NOT TO SOW 1509 VARIETY OF BASMATI BEFORE JULY 15

PUNJAB TO TAKE UP GI ISSUE OF BASMATI WITH REGISTRY TO SAFEGUARD THE INTEREST OF FARMERS

PSCM APPRISES BADAL ABOUT THE CONCERNS OF STATE RICE MILLERS AND EXPORTERS

Chandigarh, June 23: In a paradigm shift from the cultivation of Paddy to Maize and Basmati under the State government’s ambitious programme of crop diversification, the Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today held detailed parleys with the experts of Punjab Agriculture University, State Agriculture Department and the Progressive Farmers to chalk out a time bound action programme aimed at assured marketing, supply of high yield seeds and cost effective farm machinery for these alternate crops.

Presiding over separate meetings of State Maize and Basmati Development Boards here at Punjab Bhawan this morning, Mr. Badal constituted a sub-group comprising Agriculture Minister, Additional Chief Secretary Development, Vice-Chancellor, PAU and three representatives amongst progressive farmers to look into all aspects of quality seed supply, marketing, indigenous fabrication of small & portable dryers by local vendors besides the creation of price stabilization fund to ensure better and remunerative prices to the maize growers.

The Chief Minister said that he has already taken up the matter with the Prime Minister Mr. Narendra Modi to ensure procurement of Maize at Minimum Support Price (MSP) through the GoI’s Agency- National Agricultural Cooperative Marketing Federation of India, for which the State government had already designated Punjab Agro as its premier agency for the procurement of maize on the prevailing MSP as announced by Centre. Likewise, he also asked the Additional Chief Secretary Development to coordinate with the key players of maize processing units especially those who were producing cattle feed for direct tie up with the maize growers to ensure better prices to them.

The Chief Minister further asked the Additional Secretary Development to tie up with the local manufacturers for the indigenous fabrication of small & portable dryers for drying up maize so as to enable the maize growers to fetch maximum price of their yield. He said that the existing dryers installed by the Punjab Mandi Board were of huge capacity and were not economically viable for the small and marginal farmers, thus the Chief Minister emphasized that the small dryers could be made available to the farmers at the affordable prices by giving subsidy on them by the state government.

During the meeting of Basmati Development Board, the Chief Minister appealed to the Basmati growers not to sow 1509 variety of Basmati before July 15 in any case because the pre-mature sowing of this variety hampered the yield both in terms of quality as well as quantity. He directed the VC, PAU and Director Agriculture to launch a vigorous campaign for bringing awareness amongst the farmers to shun the practice of early sowing of 1509 variety through inserting advertisements in the newspapers besides organizing special camps to educate the farmers on this aspect.

Meanwhile, the Principal Secretary to Chief Minister who met a delegation of State Rice Millers and exporters at Amritsar last week, apprised Mr. Badal about their concerns about the probable fall in the export volumes of Basmati from the state during the current Kharif marketing season in wake of stringent parameters imposed by Iran, the major importer of Basmati from India. He also suggested the Chief Minister that in order to safeguard the interest of Basmati growers, the state government should pursue the matter regarding GI (Geographical Indications) related to Basmati Rice in Punjab with the GoI’s Registry- an Agency entrusted with the task of demarcation of GI areas as the other Basmati producing states like Haryana, Delhi, Uttrakhand, Himachal Pradesh, Western Uttar Pradesh and parts of Jammu and Kashmir were taking up this matter with the appointed Registry on their own. It may be recalled that a case related to GI issue of Basmati was already pending in the Supreme Court and the Indian Council of Agriculture Research (ICAR) was already taking up this issue with the Registry for its early resolution. He also brought into the notice of Chief Minister that the millers were facing serious financial crisis and demanded reduction in bank interest on the lines of bailout package as already extended by the GoI to the Sugar Industry.

The Chief Minister also directed the Secretary Mandi Board to ensure cleanliness and hygienic conditions in all the mandis across the state so that the produce of the farmers brought here with lot of sweat and toil could fetch them maximum price on one hand and to conform to the prescribed safety food standards for human consumption on the other. He said the cleanliness factor in the mandis would also boost the export potential of the basmati and other crops in the state.

Prominent amongst others who were present in the meeting included Agriculture Minister Jathedar Tota Singh, Chief Parliamentary Secretary Mr. G.S. Babehali, Additional Chief Secretary Development Board Mr. Suresh Kumar, Financial Commissioner Animal Husbandry Mr. G. Vajralingam, Principal Secretary to Chief Minister Mr. S.K. Sandhu, VC PAU Dr. B.S. Dhillon, MD Markfed Mr. Gurkirat Kirpal Singh, MD Punjab Agro Mr. K.S. Pannu and Director Agriculture Mr. Mangal Singh Sandhu. 

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BADAL ASKS LOCAL GOVT TO PROVIDE LAND TO CHRISTIAN AND MUSLIM COMMUNITIES FOR BURIAL GROUND

·        ASKS WELFARE DEPARTMENT TO ISSUE GUIDELINES FOR ISSUING BC CERTIFICATES TO CHRISTIANS

Chandigarh, June 23

Reiterating his firm commitment, the Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today asked the Local Government and Rural Development & Panchayats Departments to provide land for burial ground for the Christian and Muslim communities in all the towns and villages of the state on priority. 

Presiding over a meeting of the Punjab State Minorities Commission here at Punjab Bhawan, Mr. Badal asked the state government to provide land for burial ground to both these communities either from the panchayat or municipal or in case of non-availability of such land; the requisite land would be even purchased for this social cause. The Chief Minister also asked the Chairman of the Punjab state Minorities Commission Mr. Munawar Masih, who put forth these demands on behalf of the Christian community in the meeting to immediately provide the list of such towns and villages to the state government where there were no cemeteries to enable the state government to take a prompt action in this regard. The Chief Minister asked Secretary Local Government to identify suitable land in Gurdaspur and Amritsar for cemeteries to enable the Christian brethren to bury their near and dears with full respect and dignity. Likewise, the Chief Minister also directed the Deputy Commissioner Amritsar to work out the modalities for the early completion of Masih Bhawan. He also asked the Secretary Welfare Department to issue detailed guidelines to the Deputy Commissioners and SDMs at the districts and block level for issuing the backward classes certificates to the members of Christian community in a hassle free manner. Mr. Badal also directed the Welfare Department to clear the backlog of Shagun Scheme to beneficiaries belonging to Christian community.    

Prominent amongst those present in the meeting including Cabinet Ministers Mr. Sikander Singh Maluka and Mr. SS Rakhra, Additional Chief Secretary Home Mr. Jagpal Singh Sandhu, Principal Secretary to CM Mr. SK Sandhu, DGP Mr. Sumedh Singh Saini, Secretary Local Government Mr. Ashok Gupta, Secretary Welfare Mrs. Seema Jain and Special Principal Secretary to CM Mr. Ajoy Sharma.

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PUNJAB GOVERNMENT GIVES NOD FOR SETTING UP OF MULTI SUPER SPECIALTY APOLLO HOSPITAL AT AMRITSAR

CHANDIGARH, JUNE 23:

The Punjab Government today has given go ahead for the setting up of Multi Super Specialty Indraprastha Apollo Hospital in Amritsar over an area of 6 hectare. Nod in this regard has been given in a high level meeting held under the chairmanship of Mr. Sarvesh Kaushal, Chief Secretary,  Punjab.

 It was disclosed by an official spokesperson of the Punjab Government. He said the meeting which was convened pursuing the directions of Mr.Parkash Singh Badal, Chief Minister and Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal, Deputy Chief Minister was attended by Additional Chief Secretary, Revenue, Principal Secretary Housing and Urban Development, Secretary Local Bodies, Chief Architecture, Punjab and representative from the Finance Department.

Chief Secretary was apprised that as per the zoning regulations laid down for Amritsar city, hospital could not be built in the industrial area whereas such construction is permissible in the Ludhiana, Jalandhar and Patiala as per the zonal regulations of these cities. All the participants in unison approved that such kind of Multi Super Specialty Hospital would prove to be a big boon for the citizen of Punjab as the residents would avail the world class health care facilities in Punjab and they need not to go anywhere out of the state. Chief Secretary said that with the setting up of Apollo Hospital citizen of Punjab, besides getting good medical healthcare facilities would also save their hard earned money and time they have to spare while going other big hospitals in other states.

Chief Secretary told that this hospital would be constructed along 100 feet wide highway from Amritsar to Pathankot and exactly opposite to Verka Milk Plant. It was appraised that Housing and Urban Development in order to amend the zoning regulations of the Master Plan of Amritsar has inserted Public Notice in the Newspapers on May 15,2015 under the section 76 of Punjab Regional and Town Planning and Development Act-1995 and invite the objections/ advise from the citizen. It was told that the department has received not a single objection in this regard.

The spokesperson said that based on these grounds it was decided in the meeting that approval for change of land use (CLU)/Building plan would be taken within time.

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 NO SHORTAGE OF UREA IN PUNJAB- JATHEDAR TOTA SINGH

State received 10, 23,939 MT of urea against 7,97,000 MT last year

Chandigarh, June 23: 

The Punjab government today said that there were no shortage of urea fertilizer for the ongoing crop season and asked the farmers not to be worried in this regard as the state has arranged adequate quantity of urea to meet the demand of farmers.

The Minister in charge for agriculture Jathedar Tota Singh has reviewed the preparation of agricultural department and supply of Urea in a  video conference with Central Government agencies along with higher officials of the department.

          He said that last year during kharif season  the consumption of fertilizer was recorded  7,97,000 MT but this year the state has received 10,23,939 MT of urea and an adequate  stock of urea has already been supplied to cooperative society and private dealers across the state.   

He said that due to constant efforts made by the Agriculture Department by making interventions at various levels with the Centre, the stocks have been increased this  year ,  added Jathedar Tota Singh.  

     In the case of  DAP the state has   received 1,66,563 MT in 2015  against the 142000 MT in 2014.

        He also informed  said that the State Government has been assured by the Union Government that allocation of fertilizers for current month would be supplied and further requirement would be made as per the state's need during the remaining period of Kharif season. He said farmers should not pay heed to any kind of rumors and not stock up the fertilizer beyond requirement as adequate stocks are available.

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PUNJAB EDUCATION DEPARTMENT SETTLES 18 CASES IN PUBLIC MEETING

CHANDIGARH, JUNE 23:

The Punjab Education Department has resolved 18 cases out of total 27 presented before the Committee conducting Public meeting to settle all those cases pertaining to the employees of department.

Disclosing this here today Mr. Harbans Singh, OSD (Litigation) of the Education Department said that in the public meeting 27 such cases were presented before the committee and out of it 18 cases were disposed off. He said that pending cases were forwarded to the appropriate authority to take action in light of the decision of the Hon’ble Courts.

The meeting was conducted by Legal Cell of the department on the directions of Dr. Daljit Singh Cheema, Education Minister, Punjab. He said that out of the 92 another requests received during the meeting, 54 were also disposed off. He further said apart from these cases the grievances of another 65 employees were listened to sympathetically and the concerned authorities have been asked to take action for the redressal of grievances. He said that such meetings would be permanent fixture in future also.

Mr. Harbans Singh, OSD (Litigation), Mr. Balbir Singh Dhol, DPI (Secondary and Elementary Education), and Mr. Pankaj Sharma, Director, SCERT were present in the meeting.

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PROCESS INITIATED TO PREPARE CURRICULUM FOR TECHNICAL TEACHER TRAINING COURSE

·         SPECIAL CENTRE TO BE SET UP FOR TRAINING

·         NEWLY RECRUITED TEACHERS IN TECHNICAL COLLEGES TO UNDERGO TRAINING

·         COMMITTEE OF EXPERTS BEING FORMED TO DESIGN CURRICULUM

Chandigarh, June 23:

 The Punjab Government has taken a policy decision to make teacher training compulsory for the teachers of Technical, Polytechnic and ITIs.

 Stating this, a spokesperson of the Technical Education and Industrial Training Department said that in keeping with the decision while the already serving teachers in Technical colleges would undergo 10 days teacher training refresher course, the newly recruited teachers would have to undergo full fledged course.

 The spokesperson also said that the process to prepare curriculum for this course has been initiated and a special committee of experts is in the process of being formed. The spokesperson further informed that a special training centre would be operationalised for this purpose. The spokesperson also elaborated that this training would prove beneficial for the teachers of more than 400 ITIs, 164 polytechnics and 105 engineering institutions of the state.

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PUNJAB FORMS 6 ADVISORY COMMITTEES FOR WILDLIFE SANCTUARIES

COMMITTEES TO MEET ONCE IN EVERY 3 MONTHS AND REPORT TO THE CHIEF WILDLIFE WARDEN

Chandigarh, June 23:

The Punjab Government has formed Advisory Committees, under the Wildlife Protection Act, for the 6 wildlife sanctuaries coming under the purview of Patiala District.

Divulging this information, an official spokesperson said that these committees have been formed for the Bir Bhadson, Bir Bhunarheri, Bir Motibag, Bir Gurdialpura, Bir Dosanjh and Bir Mains wildlife sanctuaries. According to the spokesperson, these committees would advice the Government about the conservation and proper management of the sanctuaries keeping the convenience of the people living in nearby areas.

The spokesperson also said that a notification regarding this has also been issued by the Principal Secretary, Forest and Wildlife Preservation and Conservator of Forest (Wildlife) has been appointed the Chairman.  Other members include Local MLA, 3 Members from Panchayati Raj Institutions, 2 members from Home and Veterinary Departments, 3 members from amongst the persons contributing towards the wildlife preservation. The spokesperson elaborated that local Divisional Forest Officer has appointed member secretary.

The spokesperson also informed that the committees would meet once in every 3 months and report to the Chief Wildlife Warden.

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PUNJAB GOVERNMENT TO NAME STATE FLOWER

SUGGESTIONS RECEIVED FROM STATE UNIVERSITIES AND BIO-DIVERSITY BOARD

Chandigarh, June 23 :

The Punjab Government has come one step nearer to naming the State Flower. As part of the process to undertake this unique venture, the State Government had invited suggestions from the Punjab Bio-Diversity Board and all the universities of the state.

Disclosing this, an official spokesperson said that while the Government has received numerous names as contenders for the status of ‘STATE FLOWER’ but Butea  Monosperma (Palash) and Phanera Variegata (Kachnar) are leading the race. The spokesperson also disclosed that the suggestions received also include the names of some other flower species for e.g.--- Kikar, Gurhal, Jawakusum and Rohra.

The spokesperson elaborated that some of these are on the verge of extinction and if anybody amongst them is named state flower then concrete strategies would be formulated for their preservation.

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PRINCIPAL NABBED ACCEPTING BRIBE FROM HIS PEON

·        DEMANDING BRIBE TO FORWARD CASE OF PEON FOR WITHDRAWAL OF MONEY FROM GPF

CHANDIGARH, JUNE 23:

Sleuths of Vigilance Bureau today nabbed a Principal of Technical Training Institute red handed while receiving bribe of Rs.5000 from a Peon posted in the same Institute.

Disclosing this an official spokesperson of the Vigilance Bureau said that Pargat Singh, Principal, Pioneer Technical Teacher’s Training Institute, Mahilpur, District Hoshiarpur was nabbed on the complaint of Piara Ram who was working in the same Institute on the post of Peon. In his complaint with the Vigilance Bureau Piara Ram made serious accusations on the Principal Pargat Singh for demanding bribe of Rs. 5000 for forwarding his case of withdrawal of Rs.2 lakh from his GPF account for the purpose of marriage of his daughter. He alleged that Principal demanded bribe of Rs. 5000 for forwarding his case to the respective branch with his nod.

Acting on the tip off provided by the complainant a team of Vigilance Bureau laid a trap and accused Principal Pargat Singh was nabbed red handed while accepting the bribe.

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LANGUAGE DEPARTMENT TO INITIATE FREE COACHING CLASSES OF URDU IN CHANDIGARH FROM JULY 1: RAKHRA

CHANDIGARH, JUNE 23:

The department of languages, Punjab is all set to start free classes for Urdu learning, middle level in Chandigarh from July 1, 2015.

Disclosing this here today Higher Education and Languages Minister Mr. Surjit Singh Rakhra said that classes will be held for six months from5.15 pm to 6.15 pm at Gosawmi Ganesh Dutt S.D College, Sector 32, Chandigarh in association with the college.

Mrs. Manjit Kaur, Assistant Director of the department said that any person residents of  Chandigarh, Panchkula and SAS Nagar can take admission in this course. She said that the willing aspirants could contact Assistant Director (Hindi/Punjabi Cell), Punjab Secretariat-2 in Sector 9, Chandigarh from 9 am to 5 pm or the Urdu teacher at S.D. College from 5.15 pm to 6.15 pm on any working day.

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PUNJAB DEFAMED FOR FIGHTING NATION’S WAR AGAINST DRUGS- CM

ASSAILS MANPREET BADAL FOR MISLEADING THE PEOPLE ON THIS SENSITIVE ISSUE

MASSIVE STEPS TAKEN BY STATE GOVERNMENT TO STAMP OUT THIS CURSE FROM PUNJAB

LAUDS MODI FOR CELEBRATING INTERNATIONAL YOGA DAY

YOGA DAY CELEBRATIONS ACROSS THE GLOBE HAS ENHANCED THE PRESTIGE OF COUNTRY WORLDWIDE

EXHORTS PEOPLE TO SUPERVISE DEVELOPMENT WORKS

SANGAT DARSHAN IN LAMBI ASSEMBLY SEGMENT

Channu (Sri Muktsar Sahib), June 21-

Slamming the People’s Party of Punjab (PPP) Chief Mr. Manpreet Singh Badal for misleading the people by racking up baseless issues, the Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today said that before speaking on this sensitive issue related to drugs, the former Finance Minister must remember that state was being defamed for fighting nation's war against drugs. 

Interacting with the media persons on sidelines of first day of Sangat Darshan in Lambi assembly segment here today, the Chief Minister said that Punjab has a glorious track record of fighting for safeguarding unity and integrity of the country and now also it was fighting country's war against drug menace due to which the state has been belittled by some inimical forces. He said that Punjab falls on the transit route of drug coming from across the border to be supplied in the entire country. However, Mr. Badal said that the brave Punjabis were shielding the country from this curse by keeping a strict check on drug peddling due to which some of the forces vary of the peace and prosperity of the state has tarnished its image by labeling it as drug addicts.

The Chief Minister said that it was unfortunate that Punjab was once again suffering for the cause of the country. He said that despite of this all out efforts have been made by the state government to stamp out the menace of drugs from Punjab.  Mr. Badal said that massive steps have been taken by the state government to cut the supply line of drugs on one hand and setting up a network of drug de addiction and rehabilitation centers for detoxifying the drug addicts and enabling them to live life with dignity and pride, on the other.

Describing the celebration of International Yoga Day as a historic initiative of the NDA government, the Chief Minister said that people need to practice art of yoga for a healthy body and sound mind. Complementing Prime Minister Mr. Narendra Modi for the success of this mega event, he said that besides ensuring good health of the people, this initiative of promoting ancient Indian discipline across the globe has enhanced the prestige of the country worldwide. “Even, I practice yoga everyday for keeping myself fit and fine”, added Mr. Badal. 

Replying to another query, the Chief Minister expressed hope that the union government would soon release the sum of value cut borne by the farmers during the purchase of wheat. He said that as the government of India had announced to bear the value cut due on wheat crop due to unseasonal rain in the region so it would certainly release it very soon.

Earlier addressing the gatherings in village Mahuaana, Aadniyaan, Sehna Khera, Kuddiyan, Channu and others, the Chief Minister said that the Sangat Darshan program was a boon for understanding the problem of every village in an apt manner, for its early resolution. Mr. Badal said that rather than sitting in office he has always preferred to go amongst the people to listen to their grievances and solve them on the spot. He said that in Sangat Darshans the people do not face any sort of harassment in getting their day-to-day works done.

The Chief Minister exhorted the public to play a proactive role in the development of the villages by personally supervising the ongoing development works in the state. He said that the people must personally ensure that the tax payer’s money was judiciously spent for the well being of the people. Mr. Badal said that no government whether at the state or centre level could ensure the development and prosperity of the country without the active support and cooperation of the general public.

The Chief Minister was accompanied by Chairman Punjab Agro Jathedar Dyaal Singh Kolianwali, Chairman Mr. Tejinder Singh Middu Khera, his Special Principal Secretary Mr. KJS Cheema, Deputy Commissioner Mr. Jaskiran Singh and Senior Superintendent of Police Mr. Kuldeep Singh Chahal. 

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SWEARING-IN CEREMONY OF PPSC MEMBER SUKHWANT SINGH SARAO POSTPONED

Chandigarh June 21: swearing-in ceremony of newly appointed PPSC member Mr. Sukhwant Singh Sarao scheduled to be held on June 22 has been postponed.

            Disclosing this here today a spokesperson of the government said that the swearing-in ceremony of PPSC member Mr. Sukhwant Singh Sarao would now be held on Tuesday June 30 at 11.30 am at Punjab Raj Bhawan.

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TRANSPORT DEPARTMENT TO ESTABLISH AUTHORIZED TESTING STATION IN THE STATE IN COLLABORATION WITH CENTRAL INSTITUTE OF ROAD TRANSPORT PUNE

 Chandigarh June 21:

 The Transport Department Punjab today approved to establish Authorized Testing Station (ATS) in the state in collaboration with CIRT Pune on PPP model through PIDB Punjab.

According to an official spokesman of the transport department that the Authorized Testing Station (ATS) would be initially set up to inspect and certify the in-use transport vehicles for its safety and emission compliance as per CMVR, 1989. He said as per new proposed Motor Vehicle Act, there is a proposal for mandatory inspection & Certification of Non-Transport vehicles also after every five years.

The spokesman further said that this centre would house inspection lanes for testing various categories of vehicles. The inspection lane would have test equipment arranged like a production line through which the vehicles go through for the inspections. He said the pass/ fail decision on the inspections would be entered in the computer network and at the end of the lane, the test report is generated. I&C centre will consist of Vehicle inspection lanes, Administration Office and Parking space for vehicles waiting for testing.

He further said that State Government should significantly help improve & maintain vehicle fitness, serviceability, air quality standards and shall also further helps to compliance of vehicles with fitness norms and emission norms through an effective vehicle inspection system and will also improve image of Transport Department.

The spokesman further said that the State Transport Department has selected CIRT, Pune for its appointment as Project Management consultant to establish Authorized Testing Station (ATS) on PPP Model in the State of Punjab. A Memorandum of Understanding has been signed in this regard between Department of Transport and Director, CIRT.

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ANTI-MALARIA STEPS INTENSIFIED

SURVEILLANCE TEAMS OF HEALTH AND MUNICIPAL CORPORATIONS TO ENSURE HYGIENE IN THE RESIDENTIAL AREAS, PARKS GREEN BELTS IN PUNJAB

·         SUSCEPTIBLE 21 TOWNS OF PUNJAB COVERED UNDER URBAN MALARIA SCHEME

 Chandigarh June 21: With the declaration of June as Malaria Month, the Punjab government has intensified its ongoing operations to check the outbreak of malaria in urban as well as rural parts of Punjab. The Punjab Health department in collaboration with Local Bodies has already launched a state-wide campaign to prevent vector borne diseases including malaria and sought cooperation from general public in making this campaign success. All civil surgeons have been directed coordinate with respective local bodies to take necessary steps to prevent breeding of the mosquitoes in and around their vicinity in each town.

                Disclosing this here today Health Minister Mr. Surjit Kumar Jayani said all the block and district level health officers have been directed to expedite their efforts to educate general public regarding prevention of breeding of the mosquitoes to prevent any cases of Malaria. He said that the department has sufficient quantities of insecticides for prevention of spread of the vector borne diseases. The officials had also been asked to spray insecticides on the pits filled with water and prevent stagnating of water in their surroundings. The Health Department surveillance teams have already been sent to various parts of the state to be in touch with the officials of the Municipal Corporation (MC), water supply and sewerage board and some others departments concerned regarding the prevention of the outbreak of diseases and also to ensure hygiene in the residential areas, parks and other green belts in the areas under their control. He has also asked the Director Health to get the Workshops organized at District, Sub divisional, Block and Sub centre levels in the remaining weeks of June 2015. 

               The Minister also said that the officials had also been asked to spray anti-malaria smoke in the residential areas and prevent stagnation of office. The Health Department teams have been kept ready at various hospitals and health centres across the district in case of any eventuality, Minister added. He said that the Civil Surgeons were also asked to ensure that all fever cases reported are tested free of cost for Malaria.

Directing the health officers at district levels, the Minister asked them to ensure that Malaria should be treated free of cost at all the Government Hospitals of the State. He said that Punjab has adequate dengue testing kits for free testing of the suspected cases at Government Hospitals in the State as well as have medicines to provide free supportive treatment to the dengue and malaria cases. Urban Malaria Scheme (UMS) which was launched by GOI under Modified Plan of Operation (MPO) it was decided to initiate anti-larval and anti-parasitic measures to abate the malaria transmission in urban areas.  As many as 21 susceptible towns of Punjab namely Amritsar, Ludhiana, Ferozepur, Jalandhar , Patiala, Malerkotla, Bathinda , Kapurthala, Rajpura, Nabha, Jagraon, Hoshiarpur , Gurdaspur , Sangrur, Barnala, SAS Nagar, Phagwara, Khanna, Faridkot, Malout and Tarn Taran  have been included in Urban Malaria Scheme with the approval from GOI.

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M ENVISIONS PUNJAB AS FIRST STATE IN THE COUNTRY TO REALIZE ‘SKILL INDIA’ AND ‘MAKE IN INDIA’ DREAM OF MODI

BATS FOR MAKING STATE AS HUB OF SKILLED MANPOWER

TERMS MULTI SKILL DEVELOPMENT CENTERS AS ‘TEMPLES OF MODERN INDIA’

SUB GROUP OF CMs ON SKILL DEVELOPMENT TO SUBMIT ITS REPORT WITHIN A MONTH

INAUGURATES STATE-OF-THE ART MULTI SKILL DEVELOPMENT CENTRE OF RAYAT-BAHRA GROUP

Kharar (SAS Nagar), June 18-

          Envisioning the state as a hub of ‘Skilled Manpower’, the Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today said that Punjab would become the first state in the country to realize ‘Skill India’ and ‘Make in India’ dream of the Prime Minister Mr. Narendra Modi.

Addressing the gathering after inaugurating the state-of-the-art Multi Skill development centre set up by the Rahat-Bahra group here today, the Chief Minister said that these centers were the need of the hour for giving fillip to the overall development of the country on hand and eradicating the menace of unemployment on the other. He said that these centers were the ‘modern temples’ as they could be instrumental in transforming the destiny of millions of people. “Punjabis have a penchant for triumphing in every field and with the coming up of such centers the day is not far away when we will show the way to country for achieving the goal of ‘Make In India’ and ‘Skill India’ set by the PM”, said Mr. Badal.

The Chief Minister said that it was a matter of great pride for him that the Prime Minister had constituted a sub group of NITI Aayog comprising the Chief Ministers of various states under his leadership. Mr. Badal said that he had convened several meetings of this sub group across the country to have a fair idea about the potential and dimensions of Skill development in the country. He said that the sub group would be submitting its report to the Prime Minister within a month so as to give boost to skill training in the state.

The Chief Minister bemoaned that currently only three percent populace of the country was skilled as compared to the advanced countries where more than 90% of their population was highly skilled. He said that the state government has chalked out a strategy to bridge this gap by enhancing the skilled population in the state from three percent to 90%, for which Punjab State Skill Development Mission has been constituted. Mr. Badal said that the state government was setting up Integrated Multi Skill Development centers to create a pool of skilled manpower in the state, so as to cope up with the need of local industry besides opening new vistas of gainful employment for the youth.

The Chief Minister said that in the same manner the state government was giving fulsome support and cooperation to the captains of Industry in the state for setting up Skill development centers in the various cities. Lauding the Rayat-Bhara group for setting up this centre, Mr. Badal said that he was delighted to note that the group has taken this unique initiative to impart skill training to the youth in various courses that too at free of cost. “I am the happiest man today as my dream of making Punjab a skilled state was on right track. Today is a day of complete satisfaction for me”, he added.

On the occasion the Chief Minister also felicitated the captains of industry who were a part of this noble venture.

Prominent amongst other present on the occasion included Cabinet Ministers Mr. Madan Mohan Mittal and Dr. Daljeet Singh Cheema, Lok Sabha MP Prof. Prem Singh Chandumajra, Rajya Sabha MP Mr. Avinash Rai Khanna, state BJP Chief Mr. Kamal Sharma, Chief Parliamentary Secretary Mr. NK Sharma, Chairman of Rayat-Bahra group Mr. Gurwinder Singh Bahra and President of group Mr. Nirmal Singh Rayat.   

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BADAL MOURNS SAD DEMISE OF JAGJIT SINGH ANAND

SHARE CONDOLENCES WITH HIS SON SUKIRAT ANAND OVER TELEPHONE

Chandigarh, June 20: Punjab chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today expressed profound grief and sorrow over the sad demise of Editor-in-Chief of the Punjabi Daily ‘Nawan Zamana’, former Rajya Sabha Member and eminent Communist leader Mr. Jagjit Singh Anand, who passed away at a private hospital in Jalandhar last night after a prolonged illness. He was 95 and is survived by a son and a daughter.

Disclosing this here today, a spokesperson of the Chief Minister’s Office said that after having learnt about the sad demise of Mr. Anand, the Chief Minister shared his heartfelt condolences with his son Mr. Sukirat Singh Anand, the trustee of Nawan Zamana over telephone and prayed to the Almighty to give strength to the family members, friends and relatives to bear this huge loss in this hour of grief and grant peace to the departed soul.

In a condolence message, the Chief Minister recalled the outstanding services rendered by Mr. Anand in the field of Journalism, literature and national politics, which would be ever remembered by one and all. The Chief Minister described Mr. Anand as a ‘great statesman, true parliamentarian and above all a fine human being with the qualities of head and heart’. He said that Mr. Anand’s stellar role in championing the cause of down trodden and oppressed sections of the society through his pen and active politics was the hallmark of his multi-faceted personality.

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 Dy CM catches the administration off-guard

(Takes serious note of water supply & cleanliness shortcomings in the holy city)

(Orders immediate measures to bail out the residents in affected areas)

(Directs to put sewerage projects on fast track)

 Amritsar, June 20: Catching the administration off-guard, Punjab Deputy Chief Minister Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal, today during the monthly review meeting of development projects of the city, shifted the focus from the multi crore macro projects to the basic needs of the people.

Expressing dissatisfaction over the cleanliness status of the holy city, Mr. Badal ordered immediate redressal of the issue. Mayor Municipal Corporation Mr. Bakshiram Arora informed the Deputy Chief Minister that local body is fully alive to the issue and has outlined a detailed plan for the same. He added that as per this plan, the area within the municipal limits of the city would be divided into 3 segments and the cleanliness process would be initiated in a phase-wise manner with special dust suckers.

Mr Badal ordered immediate tendering out of the project so that the work may commence at the earliest. He also directed Commissioner Municipal Corporation to obtain super sucker machines for opening up the choked sewerages of the city before the onset of monsoons.

Taking serious note of the dried up tube wells, Deputy CM directed the Commissioner Municipal Corporation and Chairman Improvement Trust to assess the status of existing tube wells and initiate necessary steps to ensure regular water supply to the people. He also directed Chief Engineer Powercom to accord top priority in issuing power connections for the tube wells.

Similarly, Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal directed the concerned Superintendent engineer to expedite the 2600mm sewerage laying work on the Ram Tirath road and also ordered to fix a special meeting with the contractor of the project so that hitches, if any, may be resolved.

Earlier, Deputy CM paid obeisance at Golden Temple, along with Union Cabinet Minister Mrs. Harsimrat Kaur Badal.

Answering media queries, Mr. Badal said that criticism of World Yoga Day celeberations by Congress is uncalled for. He said that yoga is a scientifically proven method of physical fitness. He said that it is a health and fitness related issue and should not be given any unnecessary religious or political annotations.

He also refuted Congress allegations that a pick & choose policy was adopted in inviting political entities to the 350 years of celebrations of Foundation Day of Sri Anandpur Sahib and made it clear that Chief Minister Punjab personally invited the entire Punjab leadership to the occasion.

Besides others, Deputy Commissioner Pardeep Sabbarwal and Commissioner Police Jatinder Singh Aulakh were present on the occasion.

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Sukhbir Singh Badal condoles passing away of Comrade Jagjit Singh Anand

(Describes Comrade a courageous, fearless and judicious journalist and Constructive Literary)

Chandigarh, June 20: 

Punjab Deputy Chief Minister Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal today expressed profound grief over the demise of Chief Editor of Nawan Zamana, a daily Punjabi Newspaper and former Member Rajya Sabha Comrade Jagjit Singh Anand (94).

In his condolence message, Mr. Badal said it was great loss to the journalism fraternity as well as society besides literary world since Comrade Jagjit was a fearless and judicious journalist, well-known to the nerves of Indian politics vis-à-vis has unique identity in the world of Constructive, Productive and Healthy literature.

Saluting Comrade for his outstanding contribution in the field of Journalism and literature, Mr. Badal said Comrade, former Member of Rajya Sabha from 1974 to 1980, would always be remembered for giving new shapes to Journalism. He said that Comrade would also be remained source of inspiration for budding journalistic fraternity as the former was firm believer of factual journalism.  

Sharing his heartfelt sympathies with the bereaved family, colleagues of Comrade and all others touched by this great loss, Mr. Badal prayed to the Almighty to grant strength to family to bear this irreparable loss and peace to the departed soul. 

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MAJITHIA CONDOLES DEMISE OF NAWAN ZAMANA CHIEF EDITOR JAGJIT SINGH ANAND

Chandigarh, June 20: Punjab Revenue & Public Relations Minister Mr. Bikram Singh Majithia today expressed profound grief and sorrow over the demise of Veteran Communist leader and the Chief Editor of Nawan Zamana Mr. Jagjit Singh Anand, who died yesterday in a private hospital at Jalandhar.

In a condolence message, Mr. Majithia said that Mr. Anand played a significant role not only in Communist movement but also in the field of journalism. He said that under the encouraging leadership of Mr. Anand, the daily Punjabi newspaper Nawan Zamana emerged as the nursery of budding journalists. He said that in his death a void has been created in the field of journalism which was difficult to be filled in near future.

Sharing his heartfelt sympathies with the members of the bereaved family, Mr. Majithia prayed to the Almighty to grant peace to the departed soul and give then courage to bear this irreparable loss.

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Kohar hands over appointment letters to the 93 heirs of deceased employees of Punjab Roadways on Compassionate ground.

·        Also flags off 6 new PUNBUS buses

 Chandigarh, 20 June:

Transport Minister, Punjab S.Ajit Singh Kohar in a simple and impressive function offered compassionate jobs to the heirs of 93 deceased employees of Punjab Roadways. Out of 93, he offered 80 appointment letters for the post of Conductors, 12 for the workshop and one for the post of driver.  

In the event which was organized in Director State Transport Office, S. Kohar said that the Punjab Government has always put their employees on priority list and a result of which the government has offered these jobs to the heirs of the deceased employees. With the issuing of these job letters, there was happiness and a sigh of relaxation as all the employees always demanded quick action on this issue of granting jobs to the heirs of the deceased employees. While congratulating the heirs of deceased employees he also admires the working  of officers of the Department.

In the beginning, Director State Transport S.Malwinder Singh Jaggi welcomes Transport Minister and apprised the Minister about achievements of the department. He said that under the dynamic guidance of the  Minister, department has achieved a lot, which includes purchase of 305 new buses, appointments to the legal heirs of deceased employees and welfare of employees of Punjab Roadways. Decision will also be taken soon for appointment to the remaining eligible heirs of the deceased employees, added Mr. Jaggi. 

Apart from this, transport minister also flagged off new 6 PUNBUS Buses. He also informed that the 305 new buses will be added into the fleet of Pun Buses, along with  10 super integral coach AC buses  will also become a part of PUNBUS Buses very soon. " Inclusion of these buses will not only boost the profit of Pun Buses but also aid the Public" he quoted. He concluded the event by saying that in the coming time Punjab Roadways depots will be completely modernized with the investment of Rs.25.92 crores, with the facilities like Integrated Depot Management, purchase of 1800 Electronic Ticket Machines and implementation of  real time passenger information system.  Online reservation system has also been implemented in the buses of Punjab Roadways/ PUNBUS.

          Prominent among others who attended the function were Chief Stores & Purchase Officer S. N.P. Singh, Deputy Director S. S.J.S.Mann, Admn Offficer Sh. Jagdip Singh Gulwati, Mechanical Automobile Engineer S. Iqbal Singh Sandhu and Traffic Manager S. Sukhdeep Singh. Different representatives of the workers unions of Punjab Roadways, heirs of the deceased who have been offered jobs and their relatives/ friends also attended the function.

          Shri Labh Singh, President Punjab Transport Staff Association and other representatives of the workers unions thanked  the Transport Minister.

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Drip Irrigation to enhance production of sugarcane in the state-Sandhu

·        Farmers to get  80 to 90 percent subsidy on Drip Irrigation

·        Sugarfed organizes seminar at Jalandhar for the utilization of Drip Irrigation

·        Bhogpur Cooperative bank to be modernized and capability enhanced

 Jalandhar/Chandigarh, June 20: The Punjab Government today announced to provide the same rates for the sugarcane crop including varieties sown earlier or later and notification in this regard to be issued soon.

           Stating this here today Principal Secretary to Chief Minister Mr. S.K. Sandhu while presiding over a seminar to make aware the sugarcane farmers gathered from across the state about the benefits of Drip Irrigation system. Mr. Sandhu was delivering an inspiring speech to the farmers apprising them that this method of Drip Irrigation will increase the yield of sugarcane by one and half fold. He also gave a call to farmers to come forward to opt this mode of irrigation under which the marginalized peasants to get  90 percent subsidy while big ones, 80 percent.  He said that this scheme has vast jurisdiction and all the farmers applying would get the due benefits. He said that in case Drip pipes get damaged, the farmers could get the subsidy for replacement or repair after ten years.

          Announcing that Punjab was going to initiate a program to install exhibition  plants of sugarcane crop in the fertile lands of Coopertive Sugar Mills for the facilitation of farmers as well as to provide them superior quality of seeds.  He said that farming of sugarcane was being promoted to bring out the farmers from the vicious cycle of Paddy and Wheat in view of unprecedented depletion of ground water. He also apprised the farmers that Punjab has enough opportunities in Sugarcane farming since Punjab has been using its own sugar to the extent of 45 percent whereas 55 percent was being hauled from other states. He said that for promotion of drip irrigation the Punjab Government has formed a State Level Committee to resolve the issues of farmers pertaining to this method.

          Mr. Sandhu said that Punjab was extending the balance of Sugarcane crop to farmers to the tune of Rs. 186 crore for the year 2013-14 and Rs. 300 crore for 2014-15. He said that Punjab Government was making all out efforts to make Cooperative Mills world class, under this program the capacity of Bhogpur Mill was being enhanced to 3000 tonner per day from the existing 1000.0 0

           On this occasion Mrs. Kamalpreet Brar, Special Cooperative cum Managing Director of Sugarfed Punjab also apprised that the similar seminars to be organized in Ajnala, Buddhewal and Morinda Cooperative Mills to educate farmers about Drip Irrigation. They also answered the questions put forward by the farmers regarding Drip Irrigation and Subsidy problems besides assuring to resolve their all issues within no time.

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CM ENVISIONS PUNJAB AS FIRST STATE IN THE COUNTRY TO REALIZE ‘SKILL INDIA’ AND ‘MAKE IN INDIA’ DREAM OF MODI

BATS FOR MAKING STATE AS HUB OF SKILLED MANPOWER

TERMS MULTI SKILL DEVELOPMENT CENTERS AS ‘TEMPLES OF MODERN INDIA’

SUB GROUP OF CMs ON SKILL DEVELOPMENT TO SUBMIT ITS REPORT WITHIN A MONTH

INAUGURATES STATE-OF-THE ART MULTI SKILL DEVELOPMENT CENTRE OF RAYAT-BAHRA GROUP

Kharar (SAS Nagar), June 18-

          Envisioning the state as a hub of ‘Skilled Manpower’, the Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today said that Punjab would become the first state in the country to realize ‘Skill India’ and ‘Make in India’ dream of the Prime Minister Mr. Narendra Modi.

Addressing the gathering after inaugurating the state-of-the-art Multi Skill development centre set up by the Rahat-Bahra group here today, the Chief Minister said that these centers were the need of the hour for giving fillip to the overall development of the country on hand and eradicating the menace of unemployment on the other. He said that these centers were the ‘modern temples’ as they could be instrumental in transforming the destiny of millions of people. “Punjabis have a penchant for triumphing in every field and with the coming up of such centers the day is not far away when we will show the way to country for achieving the goal of ‘Make In India’ and ‘Skill India’ set by the PM”, said Mr. Badal.

The Chief Minister said that it was a matter of great pride for him that the Prime Minister had constituted a sub group of NITI Aayog comprising the Chief Ministers of various states under his leadership. Mr. Badal said that he had convened several meetings of this sub group across the country to have a fair idea about the potential and dimensions of Skill development in the country. He said that the sub group would be submitting its report to the Prime Minister within a month so as to give boost to skill training in the state.

The Chief Minister bemoaned that currently only three percent populace of the country was skilled as compared to the advanced countries where more than 90% of their population was highly skilled. He said that the state government has chalked out a strategy to bridge this gap by enhancing the skilled population in the state from three percent to 90%, for which Punjab State Skill Development Mission has been constituted. Mr. Badal said that the state government was setting up Integrated Multi Skill Development centers to create a pool of skilled manpower in the state, so as to cope up with the need of local industry besides opening new vistas of gainful employment for the youth.

The Chief Minister said that in the same manner the state government was giving fulsome support and cooperation to the captains of Industry in the state for setting up Skill development centers in the various cities. Lauding the Rayat-Bhara group for setting up this centre, Mr. Badal said that he was delighted to note that the group has taken this unique initiative to impart skill training to the youth in various courses that too at free of cost. “I am the happiest man today as my dream of making Punjab a skilled state was on right track. Today is a day of complete satisfaction for me”, he added.

On the occasion the Chief Minister also felicitated the captains of industry who were a part of this noble venture.

Prominent amongst other present on the occasion included Cabinet Ministers Mr. Madan Mohan Mittal and Dr. Daljeet Singh Cheema, Lok Sabha MP Prof. Prem Singh Chandumajra, Rajya Sabha MP Mr. Avinash Rai Khanna, state BJP Chief Mr. Kamal Sharma, Chief Parliamentary Secretary Mr. NK Sharma, Chairman of Rayat-Bahra group Mr. Gurwinder Singh Bahra and President of group Mr. Nirmal Singh Rayat.   

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BADAL MOURNS SAD DEMISE OF JAGJIT SINGH ANAND

SHARE CONDOLENCES WITH HIS SON SUKIRAT ANAND OVER TELEPHONE

Chandigarh, June 20: Punjab chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today expressed profound grief and sorrow over the sad demise of Editor-in-Chief of the Punjabi Daily ‘Nawan Zamana’, former Rajya Sabha Member and eminent Communist leader Mr. Jagjit Singh Anand, who passed away at a private hospital in Jalandhar last night after a prolonged illness. He was 95 and is survived by a son and a daughter.

Disclosing this here today, a spokesperson of the Chief Minister’s Office said that after having learnt about the sad demise of Mr. Anand, the Chief Minister shared his heartfelt condolences with his son Mr. Sukirat Singh Anand, the trustee of Nawan Zamana over telephone and prayed to the Almighty to give strength to the family members, friends and relatives to bear this huge loss in this hour of grief and grant peace to the departed soul.

In a condolence message, the Chief Minister recalled the outstanding services rendered by Mr. Anand in the field of Journalism, literature and national politics, which would be ever remembered by one and all. The Chief Minister described Mr. Anand as a ‘great statesman, true parliamentarian and above all a fine human being with the qualities of head and heart’. He said that Mr. Anand’s stellar role in championing the cause of down trodden and oppressed sections of the society through his pen and active politics was the hallmark of his multi-faceted personality.

*******

 Dy CM catches the administration off-guard

(Takes serious note of water supply & cleanliness shortcomings in the holy city)

(Orders immediate measures to bail out the residents in affected areas)

(Directs to put sewerage projects on fast track)

 Amritsar, June 20: Catching the administration off-guard, Punjab Deputy Chief Minister Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal, today during the monthly review meeting of development projects of the city, shifted the focus from the multi crore macro projects to the basic needs of the people.

Expressing dissatisfaction over the cleanliness status of the holy city, Mr. Badal ordered immediate redressal of the issue. Mayor Municipal Corporation Mr. Bakshiram Arora informed the Deputy Chief Minister that local body is fully alive to the issue and has outlined a detailed plan for the same. He added that as per this plan, the area within the municipal limits of the city would be divided into 3 segments and the cleanliness process would be initiated in a phase-wise manner with special dust suckers.

Mr Badal ordered immediate tendering out of the project so that the work may commence at the earliest. He also directed Commissioner Municipal Corporation to obtain super sucker machines for opening up the choked sewerages of the city before the onset of monsoons.

Taking serious note of the dried up tube wells, Deputy CM directed the Commissioner Municipal Corporation and Chairman Improvement Trust to assess the status of existing tube wells and initiate necessary steps to ensure regular water supply to the people. He also directed Chief Engineer Powercom to accord top priority in issuing power connections for the tube wells.

Similarly, Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal directed the concerned Superintendent engineer to expedite the 2600mm sewerage laying work on the Ram Tirath road and also ordered to fix a special meeting with the contractor of the project so that hitches, if any, may be resolved.

Earlier, Deputy CM paid obeisance at Golden Temple, along with Union Cabinet Minister Mrs. Harsimrat Kaur Badal.

Answering media queries, Mr. Badal said that criticism of World Yoga Day celeberations by Congress is uncalled for. He said that yoga is a scientifically proven method of physical fitness. He said that it is a health and fitness related issue and should not be given any unnecessary religious or political annotations.

He also refuted Congress allegations that a pick & choose policy was adopted in inviting political entities to the 350 years of celebrations of Foundation Day of Sri Anandpur Sahib and made it clear that Chief Minister Punjab personally invited the entire Punjab leadership to the occasion.

Besides others, Deputy Commissioner Pardeep Sabbarwal and Commissioner Police Jatinder Singh Aulakh were present on the occasion.

-----------

Sukhbir Singh Badal condoles passing away of Comrade Jagjit Singh Anand

(Describes Comrade a courageous, fearless and judicious journalist and Constructive Literary)

Chandigarh, June 20: 

Punjab Deputy Chief Minister Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal today expressed profound grief over the demise of Chief Editor of Nawan Zamana, a daily Punjabi Newspaper and former Member Rajya Sabha Comrade Jagjit Singh Anand (94).

In his condolence message, Mr. Badal said it was great loss to the journalism fraternity as well as society besides literary world since Comrade Jagjit was a fearless and judicious journalist, well-known to the nerves of Indian politics vis-à-vis has unique identity in the world of Constructive, Productive and Healthy literature.

Saluting Comrade for his outstanding contribution in the field of Journalism and literature, Mr. Badal said Comrade, former Member of Rajya Sabha from 1974 to 1980, would always be remembered for giving new shapes to Journalism. He said that Comrade would also be remained source of inspiration for budding journalistic fraternity as the former was firm believer of factual journalism.  

Sharing his heartfelt sympathies with the bereaved family, colleagues of Comrade and all others touched by this great loss, Mr. Badal prayed to the Almighty to grant strength to family to bear this irreparable loss and peace to the departed soul. 

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MAJITHIA CONDOLES DEMISE OF NAWAN ZAMANA CHIEF EDITOR JAGJIT SINGH ANAND

Chandigarh, June 20: Punjab Revenue & Public Relations Minister Mr. Bikram Singh Majithia today expressed profound grief and sorrow over the demise of Veteran Communist leader and the Chief Editor of Nawan Zamana Mr. Jagjit Singh Anand, who died yesterday in a private hospital at Jalandhar.

In a condolence message, Mr. Majithia said that Mr. Anand played a significant role not only in Communist movement but also in the field of journalism. He said that under the encouraging leadership of Mr. Anand, the daily Punjabi newspaper Nawan Zamana emerged as the nursery of budding journalists. He said that in his death a void has been created in the field of journalism which was difficult to be filled in near future.

Sharing his heartfelt sympathies with the members of the bereaved family, Mr. Majithia prayed to the Almighty to grant peace to the departed soul and give then courage to bear this irreparable loss.

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Kohar hands over appointment letters to the 93 heirs of deceased employees of Punjab Roadways on Compassionate ground.

·        Also flags off 6 new PUNBUS buses

 Chandigarh, 20 June:

Transport Minister, Punjab S.Ajit Singh Kohar in a simple and impressive function offered compassionate jobs to the heirs of 93 deceased employees of Punjab Roadways. Out of 93, he offered 80 appointment letters for the post of Conductors, 12 for the workshop and one for the post of driver.  

In the event which was organized in Director State Transport Office, S. Kohar said that the Punjab Government has always put their employees on priority list and a result of which the government has offered these jobs to the heirs of the deceased employees. With the issuing of these job letters, there was happiness and a sigh of relaxation as all the employees always demanded quick action on this issue of granting jobs to the heirs of the deceased employees. While congratulating the heirs of deceased employees he also admires the working  of officers of the Department.

In the beginning, Director State Transport S.Malwinder Singh Jaggi welcomes Transport Minister and apprised the Minister about achievements of the department. He said that under the dynamic guidance of the  Minister, department has achieved a lot, which includes purchase of 305 new buses, appointments to the legal heirs of deceased employees and welfare of employees of Punjab Roadways. Decision will also be taken soon for appointment to the remaining eligible heirs of the deceased employees, added Mr. Jaggi. 

Apart from this, transport minister also flagged off new 6 PUNBUS Buses. He also informed that the 305 new buses will be added into the fleet of Pun Buses, along with  10 super integral coach AC buses  will also become a part of PUNBUS Buses very soon. " Inclusion of these buses will not only boost the profit of Pun Buses but also aid the Public" he quoted. He concluded the event by saying that in the coming time Punjab Roadways depots will be completely modernized with the investment of Rs.25.92 crores, with the facilities like Integrated Depot Management, purchase of 1800 Electronic Ticket Machines and implementation of  real time passenger information system.  Online reservation system has also been implemented in the buses of Punjab Roadways/ PUNBUS.

          Prominent among others who attended the function were Chief Stores & Purchase Officer S. N.P. Singh, Deputy Director S. S.J.S.Mann, Admn Offficer Sh. Jagdip Singh Gulwati, Mechanical Automobile Engineer S. Iqbal Singh Sandhu and Traffic Manager S. Sukhdeep Singh. Different representatives of the workers unions of Punjab Roadways, heirs of the deceased who have been offered jobs and their relatives/ friends also attended the function.

          Shri Labh Singh, President Punjab Transport Staff Association and other representatives of the workers unions thanked  the Transport Minister.

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Drip Irrigation to enhance production of sugarcane in the state-Sandhu

·        Farmers to get  80 to 90 percent subsidy on Drip Irrigation

·        Sugarfed organizes seminar at Jalandhar for the utilization of Drip Irrigation

·        Bhogpur Cooperative bank to be modernized and capability enhanced

 Jalandhar/Chandigarh, June 20: The Punjab Government today announced to provide the same rates for the sugarcane crop including varieties sown earlier or later and notification in this regard to be issued soon.

           Stating this here today Principal Secretary to Chief Minister Mr. S.K. Sandhu while presiding over a seminar to make aware the sugarcane farmers gathered from across the state about the benefits of Drip Irrigation system. Mr. Sandhu was delivering an inspiring speech to the farmers apprising them that this method of Drip Irrigation will increase the yield of sugarcane by one and half fold. He also gave a call to farmers to come forward to opt this mode of irrigation under which the marginalized peasants to get  90 percent subsidy while big ones, 80 percent.  He said that this scheme has vast jurisdiction and all the farmers applying would get the due benefits. He said that in case Drip pipes get damaged, the farmers could get the subsidy for replacement or repair after ten years.

          Announcing that Punjab was going to initiate a program to install exhibition  plants of sugarcane crop in the fertile lands of Coopertive Sugar Mills for the facilitation of farmers as well as to provide them superior quality of seeds.  He said that farming of sugarcane was being promoted to bring out the farmers from the vicious cycle of Paddy and Wheat in view of unprecedented depletion of ground water. He also apprised the farmers that Punjab has enough opportunities in Sugarcane farming since Punjab has been using its own sugar to the extent of 45 percent whereas 55 percent was being hauled from other states. He said that for promotion of drip irrigation the Punjab Government has formed a State Level Committee to resolve the issues of farmers pertaining to this method.

          Mr. Sandhu said that Punjab was extending the balance of Sugarcane crop to farmers to the tune of Rs. 186 crore for the year 2013-14 and Rs. 300 crore for 2014-15. He said that Punjab Government was making all out efforts to make Cooperative Mills world class, under this program the capacity of Bhogpur Mill was being enhanced to 3000 tonner per day from the existing 1000.0 0

           On this occasion Mrs. Kamalpreet Brar, Special Cooperative cum Managing Director of Sugarfed Punjab also apprised that the similar seminars to be organized in Ajnala, Buddhewal and Morinda Cooperative Mills to educate farmers about Drip Irrigation. They also answered the questions put forward by the farmers regarding Drip Irrigation and Subsidy problems besides assuring to resolve their all issues within no time.

SEA OF DEVOTEES RELISH MARTIAL ARTS SHOW AT SRI ANANDPUR SAHIB

·         MARTIAL ARTS SHOW A REGULAR FEATURE AT SRI ANANDPUR SAHIB

·         SEVERAL NIHANG JATHAS FROM ACROSS THE GLOBE PARTICIPATE IN THIS SHOW

Sri Anandpur Sahib, June 18:

      A magnificent display of horse riding and martial art skills such as "Gatka" by thousands of Nihangs marked the second day of the 350th foundation day function at Charan Ganga Stadium, here today. A sea of devotees were awestruck as the Nihang's performed Gatka, centuries old Sikh martial art.

      Prominent among those present on the occasion included Member of Parliament Prof Prem Singh Chandumajra, Rajya Sabha member S. Balwinder Singh Bhundar, Shiromani Gurudwara Parbandhak Committee president Jathedar Avtar Singh, besides several others.

     On the occasion, several Nihang Jathas from across the globe participated in the martial arts show. The martial arts show at Sri Anandpur Sahib is a regular feature.

      Balwant Singh, a resident of Nangal said that he has been a regular on all such martial arts events at Charan Ganga Stadium. He said that whenever he witnesses Gatka, he goes back into 18th century and feels connected with the Sikh warriors.

CM WATCHES ‘HIND DI AWAAZ’ PLAY AT SRI ANANDPUR SAHIB

TERMS IT AS A NEED OF HOUR TO PRESERVE OUR RICH CULTURAL LEGACY

LAUDS THE SUPERB PERFORMANCE BY THE ACTORS

Sri Anandpur Sahib, June 18-

On the sidelines of his busy schedule during the celebrations of 350th foundation day of Sri Anandpur Sahib, the Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal watched a play ‘Hind Di Awaaz’ at the auditorium of Virasat-e-Khalsa today evening.

Accompanied by senior officers of the state government and district administration, the Chief Minister watched this play presented by the Harpal Tiwana Foundation which was based on martyrdom of ninth Sikh Guru, Sri Guru Teg Bahadur Sahib and Chote Sahibzadas. Mr. Badal watched this play for about two hours during which the artists regaled the audiences with their scintillating performances and showcased the glorious chapters of the Sikh history and the events leading to the martyrdom of Sri Guru Teg Bahadur and younger Sahibzadas. Leading actors like Mrs. Neena Tiwana, Mrs. Nirmal Rishi, Mr. Manpal Tiwana besides others reminded the people about Sikh tradition of courage, valor and sacrifice with their powerful performances.

Hailing the performances of these actors, the Chief Minister congratulated them and said that such efforts were required for perpetuating the glorious saga of sacrifices and our rich cultural history amongst our younger generations. He also felicitated the eminent actors who have performed in the play.

It may be recalled that this play was written by eminent play writer and actor late Mr. Harpal Tiwana and its music had been composed by Ghazal Maestro late Mr. Jagjit Singh.

The Chief Minister was accompanied by his Special Principal Secretary Mr. KJS Cheema.

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‘DARSHAN DIDAR YATRA’ CULMINATES AFTER COVERING THE ENTIRE STATE IN 44 DAYS

CM ALONG WITH SIKH HIGH PRIESTS GIVE ROUSING WELCOME TO YATRA

BADAL EXHORTS PEOPLE TO FOLLOW TEACHINGS OF SIKH GURUS

A SEA OF HUMANITY DEEPLY SUBMERGED IN FAITH AND DEVOTION RECEIVES THE SACRED RELICS OF TENTH GURU

RELICS TO BE PERMANENTLY PLACED AT TAKHT SRI KESGARH SAHIB

Sri Anandpur Sahib, June 18-

          Amidst great enthusiasm and religious fervor, the Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal along with Sikh High Priests today gave a rousing welcome to the ‘Darshan Didar Yatra’ on its culmination after covering the entire state within a span of 44 days, since its starting on May 6 from Patiala.

          A sea of humanity deeply submerged in faith and devotion, received the sacred relics of tenth master of Sikhs, Sri Guru Gobind Singh here on the outskirts of holy city of Sri Anandpur Sahib outside the Local power colony. A colourful religious procession led by the motorcade carrying Sri Guru Granth Sahib and a Specially designed vehicle displaying relics of Tenth Guru swept the devotees in the fold of spirituality as they were virtually seen having the glimpse of relics with folded hands and murmuring prayers of their lips. Brigade of Nihang Singhs sporting the horses and Sikh youths displaying martial art of Gatka were the star attractions on the last leg of yatra. Likewise, the Nihang Singhs beating the drums while riding on the camels and elephants during the entourage enthralled the devotees waiting to behold the relics on both sides of roads despite of scorching heat.

Addressing the gathering, the Chief Minister said that we all were fortunate to have glimpse of the relics of Sri Guru Gobind Singh Ji during our lifetime. He said that Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) has ever endeavored to show case the rich legacy of Khalsa panth by commemorating such mega events adding he mentioned that the 350 years of foundation of Sri Anandpur Sahib was also a part of party’s tradition. Mr. Badal felicitated the Punjab government and the Shiromani Gurdwara Prabhandak Committee for jointly organizing this mega event in a befitting manner.

The Chief Minister exhorted the people to follow the path shown by the great Sikh Gurus to achieve the goal of divinity. He said that the commemoration of such events not only enable our younger generations to apprise them with our glorious past but also inspire us to lead a contended life filled with happiness, peace and prosperity. Mr. Badal further said that these relics would be now permanently placed at Takht Sri Kesgarh Sahib to enable thousand of devotees to have glimpse of it.

Prominent amongst other present on the occasion included Jathedar Akal Takht Giani Gurbachan Singh, Jathedar Takht Sri Kesgarh Sahib Giani Mal Singh, Jathedar Takht Sri Patna Sahib Giani Iqbal Singh, Cabinet Minister Dr. Daljeet Singh Cheema, Lok Sabha Member Prof. Prem Singh Chandumajra, Rajya Sabha MP Mr. Balwinder Singh Bhunder, Chairman Punjab Agro Jathedar Dyal Singh Kolianwali, SGPC Chief Jathedar Avtar Singh, SGPC Members Jathedar Karnail Singh Panjoli, Mr. Amarjeet Singh Chawla and Jathedar Rajinder Singh Mehta, Chief of Sant Samaj Baba Harnam Singh Khalsa, Nihang Chief Baba Balbir Singh and Taruna Dal Chief Baba Nihal Singh Hariyaan Belaan wale.

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CM MOURNS DEATH OF JUSTICE MM PUNCHHI

Chandigarh, June 18-

Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today expressed profound grief and sorrow over the sad demise of former Chief Justice of India Mr. MM Punchhi, who passed away here at PGI following a massive heart attack last night.

The Chief Minister visited the deceased’s residence to share his heartfelt sympathies with the bereaved family members. Paying last respects to the departed soul Mr. Badal laid wreath on the body of Justice Punchhi and penned down a message in a condolence book.

The Chief Minister described late Justice MM Punchhi as a legal luminary and eminent jurist, who rendered outstanding services to uphold the ethics and moral values of Indian legal system. Sharing his heartfelt sympathies with the members of the bereaved family, the Chief Minister prayed to the Almighty to grant eternal peace to the departed soul and give strength to the family, relatives and friends to bear this irreplaceable loss.

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THREE MONTHS MATERNITY LEAVE ALLOWED TO WOMEN WORKING IN ADARSH SCHOOLS AND SCHOOLS UNDER PPP MODE: DR. CHEEMA

CHANDIGARH JUNE 18:

The Punjab government today accorded its approval to a path breaking decision to allow maternity leave to the women employees working in the Adarsh Schools and schools set up under PPP mode.

          Disclosing this here today Education Minister Dr. Daljit Singh Cheema said that this major scheme was approved by the Chief Minister S. Parkash Singh Badal. He said that all the teaching and non-teaching women staff of the Adarsh as well as the schools set up under PPP mode are entitled to avail the three months maternity leave. He said that they will get the leave on the same terms and conditions as laid down for the women employed on contractual basis under Rashtriya Madhyamik Shiksha Abhiyan (RMSA) and Model Schools.

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 EMPLOYEES WITH GRADE PAY 5400 NOW ELIGIBLE FOR CATEGORY 8 HOUSES

PUNJAB SEEKS APPLICATIONS FROM EMPLOYEES AS PER RELAXED NORMS

Chandigarh, June 18:

The Punjab Government has announced onetime relief in the house allotment norms. Stating this, an official spokesperson said that the Government has invited applications for the allotment of 35 Government houses falling under Category-8 and situated in Sector-39/42and relaxed eligibility now for the employees.

According to the spokesperson, now according to the relaxed norms employees with grade pay Rs.5400 would be eligible for category 8 houses as against earlier condition of grade pay of Rs.8700.  Besides employees working in Chandigarh, the spokesperson also divulged that those employees serving in the Punjab Government offices located at Mohali would also be eligible for this accommodation provided that their Grade Pay is Rs. 5400 or more. Pending applications in accordance with the 5400 Grade Pay would also be considered.

Employees having their own houses in Chandigarh and Mohali are ineligible to apply for these houses.  The spokesperson further that Punjab government has invited applications for these houses which should be routed through Heads of Departments and should reach within 15 days.

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VENUE OF INTERNATIONAL YOGA DAY CHANGED DUE TO PREDICTIONS OF INCLEMENT WEATHER ON JUNE 21

Chandigarh, June 18:

The Punjab Government has changed the venue of International Yoga Day scheduled to be held  on June 21 due to forecast of rain on that day.

Disclosing this, an official spokesperson said that according to the forecast of the weather department, it is likely to rain on 21st June. So, now the International Yoga Day would be observed from 7 A.M.-7.35 A.M. at sports complex, Sector-78, near Singh Shaheedan Gurdwara, Mohali .

The spokesperson informed that detail programme would be issued later on by the Secretary, Medical Education and Research Department-cum-Commissioner Ayurveda. 

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PUNJAB SEEKS REPORT ON BACKLOG OF SCs/BCs

Chandigarh, June 18:

The Punjab welfare department has issued directions to all government departments/boards/corporations to immediately submit backlog position of scheduled caste and backward classes cadre wise so nthat it could be submitted to Vidhan Sabha.

An official spokesman today cautioned all departments against lax approach being adopted by various departments and said that it has been noticed that various departments were not computing the percentage of reservations as per the guidelines of welfare department. He said that each Head of department would ensure that properly compiled cadre wise information in proper format be submitted to the department at the earliest.

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ROTATIONAL IRRIGATION PROGRAMME FOR KHARIF  SEASON    ANNOUNCED

Chandigarh,June 18:

          The Irrigation Department, Punjab has announced theRotational Programme for irrigation for the current Kharif Season through Canal water from 18-06-2015 to 25-06-2015. The channels of Sirhind Canal System would run on the priority basis from Patiala feeder, Abohar Branch, Bist Doab Canal, Sidhwan Branch and Bathinda Branch respectively.

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

          The spokesman further said that Abohar Branch off-taking from Sirhind Feeder and distributries  in Group "B" being in the First preference will run to their ident. Balance water supplies available would be utilised in direct distributaries of Group 'A'.

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

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PUNJAB GOVT. TO ORGANIZE STATE LEVEL FUNCTIONS ON INTERNATIONAL DAY OF YOGA AT AMRITSAR AND FAZILKA ON JUNE 21

·        HARSIMRAT BADAL AND SURJIT KUMAR JAYANI TO PRESIDE OVER THESE FUNCTION AT AMRITSAR AND FAZILKA

·        INSTRUCTIONS ISSUED TO ALL DCs TO OBSERVE YOGA DAY

·        YOGA DAY TO BE CELEBRATED AT DISTRICT,  SUB-DIVISIONAL AND BLOCK LEVEL

·        STAFF STATIONED AT HQ TO ATTEND YOGA EVENT AT MOHALI

CHANDIGARH, JUNE 16

          The Punjab Government has decided to organize state level functions to mark the International Day of Yoga on June 21, 2015 at Amritsar and Fazilka from 7.00 to 7.35 AM.

 Disclosing this here today, a spokesperson of the Chief Minister’s office said that the Union Minister of Food Processing Mrs. Harsimrat Kaur Badal and Punjab Health Minister Mr. Surjit Kumar Jayani would preside over these functions at Amritsar and Fazilka respectively.

Meanwhile, the State Government has issued instructions to all the Deputy Commissioners in the state to organize such functions at district, sub-division and block level in their respective districts to celebrate the International Day of Yoga on June 21, 2015 from 7.00 to 7.35 AM.

The State Chief Secretary Mr. Sarvesh Kaushal further asked the Deputy Commissioners to hold these functions in association with local officers of departments of Sports & Youth Services, School Education, Health & Family Welfare and Rural Development & Panchayats.

Likewise, the state government has also issued instructions to all the Heads of Departments to elicit the participation of all the officers/officials stationed at headquarters in the International Day of Yoga at Sports Complex, Sector-78, Mohali.

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CM TO LAUNCH WORLD BANKS WATER SUPPLY AND SANITATION PROJECT TODAY: RAKHRA

·          100 % RURAL POPULATION TO HAVE SUPPLY OF POTABLE WATER SANITATION FACILITIES

·          TWO DAYS TRAINING WORKSHOP FROM TODAY FOR SPEEDY AND SUCCESSFUL EXECUTION OF PROJECT

CHANDIGARH, JUNE 16:

Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal is going to launch water supply and sanitation projects awarded to Punjab by World Bank on Wednesday with a view to ensure 100 percent supply of potable water and sanitation facilities to the Rural population in the state.

Disclosing this here today Water Supply and Sanitation Minister Mr. Surjit Singh Rakhra said Chief Minister will formally launch the initiation of projects awarded to Punjab for the early accomplishment of previous projects before the set deadline. He said that the department was being holding a two days training workshop in this regard in association with World Bank and Union Water Supply Ministry, which would be inaugurated by Chief Minister. He said that Country Director World Bank in India Mr. Roul Ohno will also participate the workshop as Guest of Honour.

The Minister also informed that the sole aim of the workshop was to ensure speedy and effective execution of projects of World Bank. He said that experts would impart special training to the department teams so that the projects could be accomplished well before the stipulated deadline. He said that World Bank had awarded project worth Rs. 2200 crore for Punjab’s early completion of previous project worth Rs. 1280 crore. He said that the entire rural population will have 100 percent supply of potable water and sanitation facilities, once the proposed project was completed.

 Mr. Rakhra said that under this ambitious project of World Bank each household in the state will have connection of potable water supply. He also informed that State has fixed a target to provide 24X7 water supplies by laying the water pipes in rural belts along with toilets in each household to eliminate the Open Defecation.

The Minister said there will be four Technical Sessions in the workshop, where experts will express their views how to implement the project at grass root level successfully.

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Sports department announces selection trials for admission in college sports wings

 Chandigarh, June 16 – The Punjab Sports Department today announced the schedule of selection trials for players having age between 13 to 25 years to admit them in sports wings of various colleges for current academic session 2015-16 across the state from June 26.

A spokesman of the sports department today informed that trials would be held for various sports categories namely Athletics, Basketball, Boxing, Badminton, Cycling, Football, Gymnastic, Hockey, Handball, Judo, Kabbadi (national and circle style), Kho-Kho, Lawn tennis, Swimming, Table Tennis, Vollyball, Weight Lifting and Wrestling.

He said trials for college sports wings being administered under the jurisdiction of Punjab University, Chandigarh, would be held at Guru Nanak Stadium Ludhiana on June 26 for Boys and on June 27 for girls. The vacancies for sports wings which falls under Punjabi University, Patiala would be filled by selection trials at Polo ground, Patiala on June 28 for boys and next day for girls. On June 30 and July 1, the trials for college sports wings of Guru Nanak Dev University, Amritsar would be held at state sports college, Jalandhar.

The spokesman has made it clear that candidates would have to apply for the same university where he/she aspires to join sports wing as allotted seat would not be transferred to other university. He said the universities would provide free education and residential facilities to the selected players besides giving Rs. 200 for refreshment for residential players and Rs. 100 to day scholars.

He said the players selected under the "speed fund scheme", would be provided Rs. 5500 per month each for refreshment, transport, education, medical facilities and sports kits. He said the candidates would have to report at the venue on the above said dates at 8 AM with all requisite educational and birth certificates.

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JUNE 21 --WORLD YOGA DAY TO BE OBSERVED IN A BIG WAY---JAYANI

Ø ALL RELEVANT INFORMATION ON YOGA BE UPLOADED ON NATIONAL HEALTH PORTAL

Ø YOGA TO BE INTRODUCED IN DRUG DE-ADDICTION AND REHABILITATION CENTRES AND JAILS

Chandigarh June 16: Health Minister Punjab Mr. Surjit Kumar Jayani has directed all the Ayurveda and Unani Officers at district level to coordinate with the deputy commissioners of their respective districts to make sure that the World Yoga Day is celebrated in Punjab in a big way on the guidelines of the government of India. He has also asked the health officers to upload the necessary information, pictures video clips of the World Yoga Day on the National Health Portal.  

               In a statement issued here today Mr. Jayani said that it was a matter of pride for India that on the initiative of the Prime Minister Mr. Narender Modi a resolution, to observe June 21 as World Yoga Day , supported by 170 countries was adopted by United Nations. The Minister further said thatYoga in India is considered to be around 5,000 year old mental, physical and spiritual practice. He observed that with the changed life style it was difficult for us to fight back a number of physical and mental diseases where as Yoga/exercises provided us a perfect platform to keep ourselves physically, mentally, spiritually and socially fit.

        Mr. Jayani further said that he would take up the matter with the Chief Minister Punjab to introduce practicing Yoga by good instructors in Jails and also in the drug de-addiction and rehabilitation centres with a sole motive to encourage the addicts and inmates towards a better and healthy life.

 Recalling old days when people used to do a lot of hard labour, Mr. Jayani said that because of the “air conditioned culture” our youth was constantly losing the basic unity of mind and body; thought and action and this coordination of vital organs could be obtained back through the yogic exercises, he added. Adding further he said that it was imperative to restore the lost glory of our ancient yogic exercises to maintain a regular, disciplined and healthy life style.

       The Minister also said that the Ayurvedic Department in Punjab would also be revamped with more focus on practicing yoga at the district levels especially in the educational institutions to promote mental, spiritual, social and physical well being of the people.  

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PUNJAB GOVERNMENT DECLARES PUBLIC HOLIDAY ON JUNE 19

Chandigarh June 16: The Punjab government has declared a Public holiday on June 19 to mark the celebrations of 350th year of the foundation of Sri Anandpur Sahib.

            Disclosing this here today a spokesperson of the government said that all the Punjab government offices, boards/ corporations’ educational institutions would remain closed on June 19 so that people in large number could attend the function in the holy city of Sri Anandpur Sahib and pay obeisance on the occasion.

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Noose to be tightened against vendors for selling Loose Cigarettes/Tobacco Chewable Tobacco and E-Cigarettes: Vini Mahajan

 Chandigarh June 16:

Acting swiftly on a complaint addressed to Deputy Chief Minister regarding violations of Anti-tobacco act in Patiala, a team from the Directorate Health services was constituted on orders of Principal Secretary, Health & Family Welfare to check the violations especially open sale of loose cigarette which is violation of Section 7 of COTPA & chewable tobacco which has already been banned under FSSAI Act.

               A meeting of District level task force was held in DC Office Patiala. Mr. Tripathy ADC, Dr. Rajiv Bhalla, Civil Surgeon Patiala, Dr Rajpal DHO, Dr. Gurmeet Singh District Nodal Officer Patiala & all members of district level task force including DSP and all SHOs attended the meeting to chalk out an effective strategy to check the sale of tobacco and also the implementation of anti tobacco Act.

From State Headquarter,Dr. Rakesh Gupta, State Programme Officer, Tobacco Control Cell Punjab and other officials attended the meeting. After the meeting members of District level task Force along with the officials of Police Department conducted a surprise check at different Points of Sale of tobacco products to check violation as per complaint. It was found that there was an open sale of loose cigarette & chewable tobacco. Three court challans were issued under section 7 of COTPA against 3 tobacco vendors and one vendor was booked under section 5 for displaying Tobacco advt, two vendors were booked under FSSAI for sale of chewable tobacco.

Mrs.Vini Mahajan Principal Secretary Health & Family Welfare, Punjab reiterated that sale of loose cigarettes/tobacco & chewable tobacco products, E-Cigarettes were completely banned in Punjab. She said that the concerted efforts of Punjab government got due recognition by WHO on World No Tobacco Day. Strict action under law would be taken against the shopkeepers who violate various provisions of COTPA and FSSAI. She added that there are many poisonous chemicals in tobacco due to which about 3000 people are killed daily in India. So it is very important to curb this menace. License of a commercial establishment can be cancelled in case of violation of Tobacco Control Act as per latest notification of Punjab Govt. She appealed to common people to help Government in this endeavor.

Sh. Hussan Lal, Commissioner, Food & Drug Administration said that strict instructions have been issued to all DHOs and FSOs to seize the chewable tobacco under Food Safety & Standard Act of India ( FSSAI) and DIs should initiate action against sale of E-Cigarettes under Drugs and cosmetics act and send monthly action taken reports. He added that all the DCs have already held meetings with the local tobacco wholesalers to sensitize them about the provisions of Anti-tobacco law and latest notifications of Punjab Govt.

Dr.Jatinder Kaur Director Health Services, Punjab added that Punjab is the only state where implementation of Food Safety & Standard Act of India, Drugs and Cosmetics Act and COTPA is being monitored monthly at State level by Principal Secretary Health & Family Welfare and at District Level by Deputy Commissioners.

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SCHOOL GAMES FEDERATION HONORS PUNJAB WITH ‘BEST HOST AWARD’ IN SCHOOL GAMES

·        STATE ATTAINS OVERALL 3RD POSITION IN NATIONAL SCHOOL GAMES

·        EDUCATION MINISTER DR. CHEEMA GREETS DEPARTMENTFOR THEIR DISTINGUISH ACHIEVEMENTS

CHANDIGARH, JUNE 16:

The School Games Federation has conferred ‘Best Host Award’ to the Education Department, Punjab for successfully organizing ‘National School Games’ during 2014-15. It is for the first time that Punjab has achieved this rare distinction. It is noteworthy that Punjab has attained 3rd position overall with 344 medals.

Dr. Daljit Singh Cheema, Education Minister, Punjab has congratulated the department on successful hosting and wonderful performance in the games. The Education Minister has said that the credit for this achievement goes to officers of the department, Sports Wing, Players, Coaches, Teachers and Parents of the participating players.

According to a spokesperson of the Education Department, in a meeting held yesterday in Guwahati, Punjab has been conferred the prize for 3rd position in medal tally and ‘BEST HOST’. Deputy Director (Sports) Mr. Sarabjit Singh Toor received the award on behalf of the state.

The spokesperson further said that Punjab had played host to the Kabaddi, Handball, Boxing, Dodgeball and Gatka competitions of the 60TH National School Games. For efficient management during the games, Punjab got 222 marks out of Total 235. In respect of Hosting, Punjab was adjudged the Topper.

Disclosing more details, the spokesperson said that players from Punajb 63 Gold, 128 Silver and 153 Bronze medals thereby taking taking the total tally to 598 Medals.

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PUNJAB CONSTRUCTS TOILETS FOR  33LAC FAMILIES

Chandigarh June 16: The Punjab Government has constructed toilets for the 33 lac rural families under the ambitious “Swacch Bharat Abhiyan”, which has the elimination of open defecation as one of its objectives.

      Disclosing this here today an official spokesperson of the Punjab Government said that total Budget for this purpose was Rs. 937 Cr.. The remaining 7 lac 92 thousand families would be covered during the next three years. He said that Rs. 15000/- has been provided to the beneficiaries under this unique project and photograph of constructed toilet with beneficiary were uploaded on the website of Government of India for the transparency of this unique project. Till now 18000 photographs have been uploaded on this website.

         He further added that Punjab is all set to become the first state to acquire an open defecation-free state status in the country. He said that the Punjab is strengthening its drive to provide sanitation facilities to all the villages in the state. The State Government is looking forward to achieve 100 percent toilet access by October 2017.

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BADAL CALLS ON NEK CHAND’s FAMILY

·        SHARE SYMPATHIES WITH THEM IN THIS HOUR OF GRIEF

Chandigarh, June 16: Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today called on the bereaved family of Nek Chand-the creator of Rock Garden in the city beautiful, to express condolences on his sad demise.

          Sharing his heart felt sympathies with the bereaved family especially the deceased’s son Mr. Anuj Saini at his residence in Sector 27, the Chief Minister appreciated the outstanding contribution of Nek Chand in promoting art & culture through the creation of Rock Garden-the world class architectural marvel, which would ever immortalize him in the hearts of millions of his admirers. Mr. Badal said that Nek Chand’s pursuit of excellence was a blend of creativity, aesthetics, hard work and zeal to serve the society in his own humble way.   

On the occasion, the Chief Minister prayed to the Almighty to grant eternal peace to the departed soul and give courage to the family members, friends and relatives to bear this huge loss in this hour of grief.

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PRTC WILL ROLL OUT MINIBUS SERVICES TO VILLAGES

CHANDIGARH, JUNE 16:

PRTC will soon start mini bus transportation service to the villages and small town adjacent to the city owing to the growing number of passengers to the villages.

Stating this Manjit Singh Narang, Managing Director of PRTC said that transportation service will be fully operational by the September. He also informed that to upgrade its fleet of minibuses, PRTC has stated to identify the routs and will start the process to purchase the mini buses accordingly. These buses will provide transportation services to the villages, which are situated in the radius of 15-25 Km from the major cities of Malwa region. The service will be rolled out very soon because the PRTC already have all the required permits. He said that he has already ordered District roadways general managers to identify the routes for mini buses

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INTERVIEW OF DAIRY TRAINING COURSE ON JUNE 26

Chandigarh, June 16:

Mr. Gulzar Singh Ranike, Animal Husbandry, Fish Farming and Dairy Development Minister called upon farmers to opt for commercial dairy units to supplement their income.

In a Press communiqué, Mr. Ranike said that in the present economic scenario where farming was fast becoming unviable economic venture, it was imperative for farmers to go for diversification in dairy sector to sustain themselves. He said that dairy development department has designed a six week Dairy Entrepreneurship Training course for farmers to impart modern training in Dairy sector.

He said that the interview would be conducted for training course on June 26, 2015 at all the concerned centres by Dairy Development Board. The course commencing on July 6, 2015.Divulging the details, Mr. Inderjit Singh, Director Dairy Development said that the centres where training would be provided, namely Dairy Training and Extension Center Bija (Ludhiana), Chattamli (Ropar), Verka (Amritsar), Gill (Moga), Sardulgarh (Mansa), Taran Taran, Phagwara and Abul Khurana (Sri Mukatsar Sahib) would impart training to the selected candidates.

He said that farmers can get the scientific and modern training at these eight centres. “Besides, giving information on different techniques of dairy farm management, the candidates would be imparted training in artificial insemination, pregnancy diagnosis and milk handling etc” he said. Interested candidates can contact at District offices or concerned Dairy Training and Extension Centres for further information and detail.

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CS PRESIDES OVER THE MEETING OF Board of Governors of Maharaja Ranjit Singh State Technical University, Bathinda

Chandigarh: June 15, 2015

 The first meeting of Board of Governors of Maharaja Ranjit Singh State Technical University, Bathinda was presided over by the Chief Secretary, Punjab Mr.Sarvesh Kaushal, IAS, today.

It was resolved to make the new Technical University a world class institution with zero tolerance to mediocrity and corruption. Emphasis was laid upon the imperative need to develop this­­­­­­­­­­ University as a centre of excellence with the highest standards of intellectuality and competence.

The jurisdiction of this University extends to 11 districts i.e. Bathinda, Ferozepur, Moga, Faridkot, Sri Muktsar Sahib, Barnala, Mansa, Sangrur, Patiala, Fatehgarh Sahib, Fazilka.  

Discussions were held to devise a curriculum with the latest inputs from the best technical universities in India and abroad to ensure that the students passing out of the University meet the demand of industries and the requirements of the gainful self employment. It was expected that this university would become a hub of technical capacity building of the youth of the State. Chief Secretary further stated that since he is the chairman of the Board of Governors of Punjab Technical University also, he would ensure that the Punjab Technical University also adopts vigorous Standard Operating Procedures.

Besides constituting the Finance and Building Committees for the university, a decision was taken to release the first installment of Rs.75.00 crore to meet the immediate infrastructure requirements. The Chief Secretary decided that with a view to give stronger impetus to the setting up of new university, Board of Governors shall meet every month and the next meeting will be held in campus of the University at Bathinda.

The Principals of top ten colleges under the jurisdiction of this university were nominated as members of its Academic Council for a period of two years. The representatives of leading industries and other technocrats such as Mr.S.S.Marwaha, CEO/Punjab Biotechnology Incubator;  Mr.Prabh Dass, CEO/HMEL; Mr.Sanjeev Nagpal, a pioneer in paddy straw management technology were also unanimously included in the Academic Council. A mechanism was also finalized to involve local industries to develop courses and course curriculum as well the mid term course evaluation.

Prominent amongst those who were present included Mr.M.P.Singh, Principal Secretary Technical Education; Mr.R.K.Verma, Secretary Technical University; Dr.M.P.Singh Ishar, Vice Chancellor, MRSSTU; Mr.Parveen Thind, Special Secretary Finance; Mr.S.S.Bhogal, Chairman Punjab State Council, CII Northern Region; Mr.Sumanpreet Singh, Punjab State Council, CII Northern Region; Dr.S.K.Salwan, former Vice Chancellor, Punjab Technical University.

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 PUNJAB GOVT. TO CELEBRATE INTERNATIONAL DAY OF YOGA  ON JUNE 21

CHANDIGARH, JUNE 21

          The Punjab Government has decided to celebrate the International Day of Yoga on June 21 on mass scale  in the state. Instructions issued by the General Administration Department of the Punjab Government said that on June 21 the International Day of Yoga would be celebrated from 07.00 AM to 7.35 AM at Bougainvillea Garden at Chandigarh. Head of the Departments have been directed to ensure proper participation of their subordinate employee in the event.

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Thandal suffers heart attack, Admitted at Fortis Hospital

·         CM enquires about the well-being of the Cabinet Minister

·         Directs doctors to pay proper heed and medication

Chandigarh, June 15: Punjab Cabinet Minister Mr. Sohan Singh Thandal today suffered a minor heart attack at his native village during the morning walk. After being investigated by a local doctor he was referred to the Fortis Hospital Mohali. Mr. Thandal was immediately operated upon by the doctors and a stunt was placed.

                After having the information of cardiac arrest, Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal immediately talked to the doctors operating upon the ailing Minister and enquired about the well-being of his colleague. Chief Minister directed the doctors to pay full attention round the clock upon the ailing Cabinet Minister and to administer proper medication to him. At the same time Chief Minister Prayed to the Almighty for the well-being of the ailing Minister and his speedy recovery.

                Meanwhile latest reports emerging from Fortis Hospital indicated that Mr. Thandal was out of Danger and recuperating steadily from the impact of atta

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Punjab Government nominates Sukhwant Singh Sarao as Member Punjab Public Service Commission

 Chandigarh, June 15: The Punjab Government today notified to nominate Mr. Sukhwant Singh Sarao as Member of Punjab Public Service Commission, who will take oath of office and secrecy soon.

Disclosing this here on Monday, an official spokesman said the State government has nominated Mr. Sarao considering his long and spotless administrative career and experience as professional advocate. He said that Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal has cleared the name of Mr. Sarao as Member of Punjab Public Service Commission. Mr. Sarao, who belongs to Sangrur district, had been member of Bar Council of Punjab and Haryana and practiced as an advocate at Judicial Courts Sunam from the year 1979 to 1984.

It is pertinent to mention here that Mr. Sarao had also served the Punjab Government as District Development and Panchayats Officer, Deputy Director and Additional Deputy Commissioner (Development) in various districts. He also worked as Deputy Director Panchayats and Principal of State Institute of Rural Development Nabha. EOM

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Paddy transplantation begins in Punjab

·   Punjab fully geared up for facilitating paddy transplantation

·   Assures 8 hour power supply to farmers

·   Irrigation Department directed to run canals to full capacity

Chandigarh June 15:

Paddy transplantation started in Punjab today with Punjab government reiterating its resolve to help the farmers and provide them total support to achieve maximum productivity.

Punjab Agriculture Minister Jathedar Tota Singh reviewed arrangements and said that instructions have been already issued to ensure 8 hour power supply to the farmers. He said that state government was fully prepared to meet the challenge of deficit monsoon and irrigation department has been directed to run all canals to the full capacity so that farmers at tail end could get full supply. He said that control room has been setup by the Powercom to immediately redress the complaints.. Directions have been issued to canal wing also to run canals on full capacity to reinforce embankments of the canals,

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YOGA GURU BABA RAMDEV CALLS ON BADAL

CM OFFERS ALL HELP AND SUPPORT TO BABA RAMDEV FOR SETTING UP YOGA-CUM-AYURVEDIC CENTRE

BABA TO PARTICIPATE IN 350th CELEBRATIONS OF FOUNDATION DAY OF SRI ANANDPUR SAHIB ON JUNE 19

Chandigarh, June 15: Yoga Guru Baba Ramdev today called on the Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal at his official residence as a ‘courtesy call’.

Disclosing this here today, a spokesperson of the Chief Minister’s Office said that Baba Ramdev confirmed his participation in the celebrations of 350th foundation day of Sri Anandpur Sahib on June 19.

Taking part in deliberations, Mr. Badal urged Yoga Guru to set up a Yoga-cum-Ayurvedic centre in Punjab near Chandigarh and offered all possible help and support to Baba Ramdev. Responding positively to this proposal, Baba Ramdev impressed upon the Chief Minister to provide land for establishing this centre and hoped this initiative would go a long way in creating awareness amongst the masses about the health and hygiene through practicing Yoga.

The Chief Minister informed Baba Ramdev that people now-a-days are very health conscious and want to stay fit and healthy and the proposed centre would prove to be a useful platform to promote Yoga on the scientific lines on one hand besides benefitting people to get themselves cured from the ailments with ayurvedic therapy on the other.

Baba Ramdev was accompanied by the Chief Coordinator, Patanjali Yogpeeth, Haridwar Dr. Jaideep Arya.

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PUNJAB INVITES APPLICATIONS FOR ALLOTMENT OF GOVERNMENT ACCOMODATION

·        REGULAR EMPLOYEES SERVING IN CHANDIGARH ELIGIBLE

·        CAN APPLY WITHIN 1 MONTH

Chandigarh, June 15:

The Punjab Government has invited applications from its regular employees serving at Chandigarh in various Departments for allotment of Government accommodation in respect of Category-3 and Category-1 in Sector-39 C and 39 D.

Stating this, an official spokesperson said that under category-3 an employee’s Grade Pay should be between 4800-5399 and under category-1 the Grade Pay should be between 1650-3199 as on 31-3-2015. The spokesperson further disclosed that interested employees should send their applications through Departmental Head in the requisite Performa within 1 month to Administrative Officer-1 Branch, Room No.-22, 6TH Floor, Punjab Civil Secretariat.

Divulging more details, the spokesperson said that the employees should clearly mention their name, Designation, Date of appointment, Designation at the time of appointment, Grade Pay as on 31-3-15, Designation as on 31-3-15, whether the applicant or his family member owns a house in Chandigarh/Panchkula/Mohali. Intimation in this regard has been sent to all the Heads of Department/Corporations/Boards.

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BALWANT SINGH APPOINTED CHIEF VIGILANCE OFFICER FOR INFORMATION AND PUBLIC RELATIONS DEPARTMENT

Chandigarh, June 15:

The Punjab Government has appointed Mr. Balwant Singh, Joint Secretary, Protocol, as Chief Vigilance Officer for Information And Public Relations Department.

Stating this, an official spokesperson said that this appointment has been effected as per the directions of Vigilance Department. The spokesperson also said that the Officer can be reached at Room No. 12, 6th Floor, Punjab Civil Secretariat Chandigarh, and Mobile No. ---98786-62176. He can also be reached at H.NO.-2549, Sector-19 C, Chandigarh.

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5 OFFICERS NABBED RED HANDED IN GRAFT CASES DURING MAY

·        VIGILANCE INITIATES 12 FRESH INQUIRIES DURING MAY

·      5 CRIMINAL CASES WERE REGISTERED AGAINST CORRUPT EMPLOYEES

·      14 CHALLANS WERE FILED

·        HON’BLE COURTS PRONOUNCED SENTENCE IN 3 ANOTHER BRIBERY CASES

CHANDIGARH, JUNE 15:

Intensifying its campaign to check the corruption in the government offices, the Punjab Vigilance Bureau, has been successful in nabbing 5 officers red handed while accepting bribe in the month of May. VB has also initiated fresh vigilance inquiries in 12 other cases. Similarly VB completed the probe and investigation in 14 bribery cases subsequently challans have been filed in the courts.

Disclosing this here, an official spokesperson of the Vigilance Bureau said that during the month of May, 2015 the Vigilance Bureau besides apprehending 5 corrupt officers also registered 5 criminal cases in the month. He said that 2 case of disproportionate assets were registered against the officers on charge of amassing wealth beyond their known income sources.

He said that all these officers were booked under Prevention of Corruption Act-1988.

            The spokesman further said that during the resumed hearing in different cases of corruption, the Hon’ble courts pronounced sentenced to 3 persons in bribery cases.

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 PUNJAB NOMINATES NEW MEMBERS OF FARIDKOT, FAZILKA AND FATEHGARH SAHIB GRIEVANCES REDRESSAL COMMITTEES

Chandigarh, June 15:

Punjab Government has nominated non-official members of Redressal Grievances Committees of Faridkot, Fazilka and Fatehgarh Sahib District/Sub Division from Aam Admi Party (AAP). A notification has already been issued in this regard.

Disclosing this here today an official spokesman said that Sh. Mahipal Singh has been nominated for District Redressal Grievances Committee, Fatehgarh Sahib, Sh. Harmanpreet Singh for Sub Division Redressal Grievances Committee, Fatehgarh Sahib, Sh. JaiKishan for Sub Division Redressal Grievances Committee, Bassi Pathana and Sh. Parhlad Singh for Sub Division Redressal Grievances Committee, Khamano.

 Similarly, Sh. Darshan Singh has been nominated for District Redressal Grievances Committee, Fazilka, Sh. Gurpreet Singh for Sub Division Redressal Grievances Committee, Fazilka, Sh. Balbir Singh for Sub Division Redressal Grievances Committee, Jalalabad and Sh. Rattan Bansal for Sub Division Redressal Grievances Committee, Abohar.  Sh. Surinder Kumar Diwedi has been nominated for District Redressal Grievances Committee, Faridkot.

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DISTRICT PUBLIC RELATIONS OFFICE SHAHEED BHAGAT SINGH NAGAR

-        DEVOTEES GIVE ROUSING WELCOME TO DHARMIK DARSHAN YATRA CARRYING GURU SAHIBANS’ RELICS

-        DISTRICT LEADERS, OFFICERS HAVE DARSHAN OF YATRA AT GURUDWARA TIBBI SAHIB

-        HUGE CROWD OF DEVOTEES WELCOME YATRA TILL BALACHAUR

-        POLICE CONTINGENT GIVES SALUTATION UNDER RAJPAL SINGH HUNDAL

Balachaur, June 14

           Outting an end to its keenly awaited arrival the Dharmik Darshan Yatra today arrived in district Shaheed Bhagat Singh Nagar and was given rousing welcome.

           A large number of devotees thronged Gurudwara Tibbi Sahib to have darshan of yatra carrying holy relics of Guru Sahiban. Under DSP Mr Rajpal Singh Hundal, the Punjab police contingent gave a spectacular salutation to yatra.

           Welcoming the yatra were Sant Avtar Singh Tibbi Sahib Wale, education minister Dr Daljit Singh Cheema, CPS Chaudhary Nand Lal, district planning committee cgairman Dr Sukhwinder Kumar Mukhi, DC Mr Amar Pratap Singh Virk, SSP Mr Snehdeep Sharma, SGPC general secretary Mr Sukhdev Singh Bhaur, Deputy CM’s OSD Mr Charanjit Singh Brar, ADC Mr Apneet Riar, assistant commissioner Ms Geetika Singh, senior SAD leader Bibi Satinder Kaur Kariha and Jagteshwar Singh Majithia,  center cooperative bank Patiala’s MD and Lok Sabha member Prof Prem Singh Chandumajra’s son Harinderpal Singh Chandumajra,  former chairman Resham Singh Thiara, Jathedar Ram Singh Dudhalan, member SGPC Gurbaksh Singh Khalsa and Mahinder Singh Hussainpur were also present.

           Speaking to the devotees CPS Ch Nand Lal  said that the main aim of Dharmik Darshan yatra was to remind people of Punjab about the contribution of Guru Sahiban and the priceless lives they laid for us. He added that the yatra was carrying rare 46 inches long kirpan, 22 inches long whip, Siri Sahib, one sword, Chola Sahib, manuscript, hair, comb and turban, 20 inches long iron arrow, three-and-a-half inch long Siri Sahib, 30 inches long wooden spear and five arrows.

The historical initiative of SGPC and Punjab government, yatra was also given warm welcome at Railmajra, Taonsa, Fatehpur-Tajowal, Najra Jattan, PanialiKalan and Khurdm Jeowal abd Bachhua (old toll plaza), Kathgarh bus stand, Jalalpur, Mutton Jabbam Sudha Majra, Rakhran Bet, Kangana bridge and other places.  On reaching from Kangana bridge to Balachaur city the yatra was given a welcome at Gurudwara Sahib Mehendipur. At Bachhua, Sant Jagtar Singh had put up langar for devotees.

SP Gagan Ajit Singh and Dilbagh Singh Pannu,  SDM Balachaur Jagjit Singh, DSP Digvijay Kapil, tehsildar Amarjit Singh and Gurjinder Singh has made special arrangements for the yatra.

On its arrival in Balachaur area CPS Ch Nand Lal, Harjinderpal Singh Chandumajra, member SGOC Gurbaksh Singh Khalsa, Jathedar Ram Singh Dudhalan, chairman market committee Tarlochan Singh Rakran, Jaspal Singh Jadli and others welcomed the yatra.

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PUNJAB TO SET UP MEGA FOOD PARK AT LADHOWAL

Chandigarh June 14: A Rs. 140.50 Crore Mega Food Park is all set to be developed at Ladhowal (Ludhiana) on 100 acres of land at Ladhowal.

Disclosing this here today Mr. K.S.Pannu ,Managing Director Punjab Agro Industrial Corporation said that Planning and Execution committee under the chairmanship of Additional Chief Secretary has constituted for overseeing the progress of setting up of this park. Demarcation of the land at Ladhowal and its station survey has been done.

       Mr. Pannu said that the primary objective of the Park is to provide modern infrastructure facilities for the food processing along the value chain from farm to market. It will include creation of Centralized Processing Centre (CPC) at Ladhowal and Primary Processing Centers/Collection Centers at identified fruits & vegetables clusters, including Malerkotla, (Sangrur) Shahkot,(Jalandhar) Sultanpur Lodhi, (Kapurthala) Village Sandhwan, near Kotakpura, (Faridkot) and Bring Mohanpura, (Tarn Taran) to ensure sustainable supply of raw materials.

 He said that the CPC will have common facilities like Individual Quick Freezing Unit for vegetables, dry warehouse for raw material, steel silos for food grains, controlled atmospheric cold store, pre-cooling chambers, ripening chambers, deep freezers, reefer vans, milk chilling unit, weigh bridge, steam power generating unit, food incubation centre, testing laboratory, etc. It will also have enabling basic infrastructure like roads, water supply, drainage, electricity supply including captive power plant, effluent treatment, telecommunication lines, parking bays and other facilities. It will also have plug & play facility for Micro Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs).

He said that the common & enabling basic infrastructure will be developed according to the requirement of the companies planning to set up manufacturing plants in the Mega Food Park. He said that Food processing units processing frozen fruits & vegetables, Frozen French Fries, milk, maize, bakery products, wheat pasta, tomato & chilli, snack foods, chicken/fish/goat/eggs, malt, honey, haldi, etc. would be set up in the Food Park.

       Mr. Pannu said that a large number of investors have evinced keen interest to set up units in this Mega Food Park.

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PUNJAB RELAXES ARMED LICENSES CONDITIONS FOR PROFESSIONAL SHOOTERS

·      MAJOR INITIATIVE TO PROMOTE SHOOTING SPORTS IN STATE

·      NEW INSTRUCTIONS ISSUED TO ALL DCS TO APPLY NEW NOTIFICATION FOR ENTERING WEAPONS IN LICENSES

·      PUNJAB SUCCEEDS IN CONVINCING UNION GOVERNMENT TO SEGREGATE WEAPONS OF SPORTS SHOOTERS FROM OTHER WEAPONS

Chandigarh, June 14: The Punjab government today took a major initiative in applying relaxed norms to shooters, who have made mark in national and international shooting championships by making it easy for getting their weapons used in shooting events entered in their armed licenses.

According to an official spokesman, these relaxations could be possible due to active follow up of Punjab government to cut red tape and promote shooting sports in a big way. It may be added that number of professional shooters from Punjab have made their mark in clinching individual gold, silver and bronze medal in Olympic, Commonwealth games and other prestigious shooting championships putting focus on  nurturing the shooting talent of the state.

The spokesman said that according to the new notification of Government of India, an Arjuna awardee will have general exemption on the number of arms to be possessed provided that the Arjuna award was conferred in shooting. In case of International medalist/renowned Shooter, he can possess Rifles in caliber .22 Long Rifle ( also known as .22 LR) , Centre fire rifles with calibers up to 8mm including all calibers lower than 8 mm, pistol/revolvers of caliber up to and including 9 mm but excluding 9 mm parabellum (9x19 mm) and shotguns of caliber up to 12 bore/gauge including all calibers  lower than 12 bore/gauge. The total number of weapons exempted shall not exceed seven in addition to the number of weapons he was entitles as a normal citizen as per the provisions of the Act, subject to  an overall ceiling of ten weapons. The spokesman further said that in case of Junior Target Shooter, the exemption was restricted to one weapon of that type in which category the person was a Junior Target shooter. Similarly, in case of Aspiring shooter, the exemption was restricted to one weapon of that type in which category the person was an Aspiring shooter. Besides this, National Rifle Association of India (NRAI)/Affiliated State Rifle Associations with NRAI/All shooting Clubs affiliated with State Rifle Association or NRAI/All Shooting Ranges under the Sports Authority of India or Sports Authority of the State governments were entitled for Rifles in caliber .22 Long Rifle ( also known as .22 LR) , Centre fire rifles with calibers up to 8mm including all calibers lower than 8 mm, pistol/revolvers of caliber up to and including 9 mm but excluding 9 mm parabellum (9x19 mm) and shotguns of caliber up to 12 bore/gauge including all calibers  lower than 12 bore/gauge. For these bodies, there will be no upper limit on the number of Arms, subject to the discretion of the licensing authority based on the recommendation of the certifying body, he added.

The spokesman added that for entities like Shooting clubs/District Rifle Associations affiliated with State Rifle Associations or National Rifle Association of India (NRAI), the certifying body was State Rifle Association or NRAI, for State Rifle Association it was NRAI, for NRAI it was Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports and for shooting ranges it were SAI or Sports Authority of the state government /NRAI.

The Punjab government has directed all Deputy Commissioners and Police Commissioners of Amritsar, Jalandhar and Ludhiana to enter the weapons in licenses of shooters as per amendments in Section 3(2) and section 9 (1) (A) (i) of Arms Act, 1959 mentioned in Government of India notification no. S.O, 1988 (E), dated 04-08-2014 after compliance of conditions and required documents and their thorough verification. Besides this, details of weapon licenses of all categories of shooters shall be put on the official websites of Union Youth Affairs & Sports Ministry and National Rifle Association of India, the spokesman added.

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TRANSFER OF SIKH PRISONERS NO THREAT TO PEACE IN STATE- CM

EACH AND EVERY DECISION OF THE STATE GOVERNMENT AIMED AT PRESERVING THE HARD EARNED PEACE, COMMUNAL HARMONY AND AMITY IN THE STATE

CONGRESS LEADERS MISLEADING THE PEOPLE BY RAISING THE BOGEY OF TERRORISM

ASKS HOW COULD MILITANCY BE REVIVED WITH THE TRANSFER OF INDISPOSED PERSON LIKE PROF. BHULLAR IN THE STATE

SAYS PM HAD ASSURED HIM TO ATTEND CELEBRATIONS TO MARK 350TH FOUNDATION DAY OF SRI ANANDPUR SAHIB

EVERY DECISION TAKEN BY SAD-BJP ALLIANCE UNANIMOUSLY

SAD HAS SUBMITTED ITS OPINION ABOUT LAND ACQUISITION BILL TO THE UNION GOVERNMENT

PUNJAB IMMENSELY BENEFITTED FROM NDA REGIME

SANGAT DARSHAN IN PHAGWARA ASSEMBLY SEGMENT

Maanak (Kapurthala), June 14-

Terming that transfer of Sikh prisoners from other states would hardly pose any threat to peace and harmony in the state, the Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today said that each and every decision of the state government was aimed at preserving the hard earned peace, communal harmony and amity in the state.

Interacting with the media persons on the sidelines of Sangat Darshan program in Phagwara assembly segment here today, the Chief Minister said that the SAD-BJP alliance government has always accorded top priority to preserve the peace, communal harmony and brotherhood in the state and its every decision was aimed at promoting these values. He said that the state governments across the country have been following the policy of transferring prisoners from one to another and Punjab was hardly an exception to it. Moreover, Mr. Badal further said that the state government was duty bound for maintaining peace, law and order of the state at every cost.

Slamming the Congress party misleading the people of state by raising the bogey of terrorism, the Chief Minister said that the Congress leaders owe an answer to the people as to how militancy could revive with the transfer of indisposed person like Prof. Davinder Pal Singh Bhullar in the state. He said that Prof. Bhullar’s family had been pleading with the Centre and state governments to transfer him in jail of state so as to facilitate them to frequently meet him. “The apprehensions regarding revive of militancy in the state with this decision are totally baseless and the Congress leaders are just creating a fuss over the issue to score brownie points before the media” added Mr. Badal.

Replying to another query, the Chief Minster said that Prime Minister of India Mr. Narendra Modi had accepted his personal invitation to attend the celebrations to mark 350th foundation day of Sri Anandpur Sahib and assured him that he would be part of the glorious mega event. He said that extending invitation to the Prime Minister for such a mega event was a prerogative of every Chief Minister. Mr. Badal further said that the joint committee of the leaders of SAD-BJP alliance had invited national BJP Chief Mr. Amit Shah, several Union Ministers and Chief Ministers of various states who were likely to take part in this mega event.

Reiterating that every decision to govern the state was taken by SAD-BJP alliance unanimously, the Chief Minister said that both the alliance partners have complete understanding on all the issues and they take the decisions pertaining to the state collectively. He further said that the alliance was everlasting and firm as both the alliance partners have complete faith and confidence on each other. Mr. Badal said that the alliance takes all the decisions collectively for ensuring the progress of state and welfare of its people.

Asked to comment on the Land Acquisition Bill, the Chief Minister said that the Shiromani Akali Dal has categorically made its stand clear to the Union government by submitting a detailed document. Mr. Badal said that Punjab model of land acquisition was the best in the country and it should be replicated at the national level. He said that the clauses of consent, adequate compensation and rehabilitation of the farmers were must so as to devise any pro-farmer land acquisition bill.

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.

Later, the Chief Minister while addressing the public gatherings at village Maanak, Lakhpur and Khalyan said that the Sangat Darshan program was a boon for understanding the problem of every village in an apt manner, for its early resolution. Mr. Badal said that rather than sitting in office he has always preferred to go amongst the people to listen to their grievances and solve them on the spot. He said that in Sangat Darshans the people do not face any sort of harassment in getting their day-to-day works done.

Earlier the Chief Minister laid the foundation stone of 66KV power sub station at village Narangshahpur and inaugurated newly constructed Bibi Surinder Kaur Badal block at Government Girls ITI Polytechnic College in Phagwara. He also inaugurated 66 KV Power Sub-station at village Maanak.  

The Chief Minister was accompanied by Chief Parliamentary Secretary Mr. Som Parkash, Chairman Markfed Mr. Jarnail Singh Waahid, Shiromani Gurdwara Prabhandak Committee (SGPC) Member Jathedar Sarwan Singh Kular, his Special Principal Secretary Mr. Ajoy Kumar Sharma and Deputy Inspector General (DIG) of Police Mr. Kunwar Vijay Pratap.  

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13104 VHSN COMMITTEES FORMED TO STRENGTHEN RURAL HEALTH FACILITIES– JIYANI

 Chandigarh, June 14: Punjab Government has formulated 13104 VHSN committees aiming at providing adequate and affordable health services at grass root levels in rural areas of the state.

Disclosing this here today, Punjab Health Minister Mr. Surjit Kumar Jiyani said that the directions have been given to the Village Health Sanitation Nutrition Committee (VHNC) to conduct interactive meetings at least once in a month to maintain direct channel of communication between health department and general public and highlight key information regarding health programmes, food, hygien and sanitation practices for healthy life formulated by the state government. He said that the state health officers have been asked to decide agenda of these committees in advance with prior approval from the directorate and also issue road map of health care activities and events that have been implemented in all districts of State. The VHSN committees have also been directed to discuss at length about female feticide, women empowerment and diseases like TB, cancer, laparoscopy, HIV, iodine deficiency, hypertension, impact of drugs on human life and various more key issues during the meetings of committees.

              Minister added that it was imperative to make public aware of significance and seriousness of mother child health care to control the Mother and Infant mortality rate. Referring to the services being rendered for the public free of cost, the Minister said that the Health department was fully equipped to conduct safe free of cost institutional deliveries in all Government hospitals. He also said that under Inderdhanush Vaccination Programme infants up to the age of five years have been provided with complete health cover to them from various diseases.  Asking the district level health officers to check female feticide, the Minister said that strict vigil has been put on the ultrasound centres to check the illegal sex determination test. He said that doctors or paramedical staff found indulged in such practices would not be spared.

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DISTRICT PUBLIC RELATIONS OFFICE SHAHEED BHAGAT SINGH NAGAR

 -        DEVOTEES GIVE ROUSING WELCOME TO DHARMIK DARSHAN YATRA CARRYING GURU SAHIBANS’ RELICS

-        DISTRICT LEADERS, OFFICERS HAVE DARSHAN OF YATRA AT GURUDWARA TIBBI SAHIB

-        HUGE CROWD OF DEVOTEES WELCOME YATRA TILL BALACHAUR

-        POLICE CONTINGENT GIVES SALUTATION UNDER RAJPAL SINGH HUNDAL

 Balachaur, June 14

           Outting an end to its keenly awaited arrival the Dharmik Darshan Yatra today arrived in district Shaheed Bhagat Singh Nagar and was given rousing welcome.

           A large number of devotees thronged Gurudwara Tibbi Sahib to have darshan of yatra carrying holy relics of Guru Sahiban. Under DSP Mr Rajpal Singh Hundal, the Punjab police contingent gave a spectacular salutation to yatra.

           Welcoming the yatra were Sant Avtar Singh Tibbi Sahib Wale, education minister Dr Daljit Singh Cheema, CPS Chaudhary Nand Lal, district planning committee cgairman Dr Sukhwinder Kumar Mukhi, DC Mr Amar Pratap Singh Virk, SSP Mr Snehdeep Sharma, SGPC general secretary Mr Sukhdev Singh Bhaur, Deputy CM’s OSD Mr Charanjit Singh Brar, ADC Mr Apneet Riar, assistant commissioner Ms Geetika Singh, senior SAD leader Bibi Satinder Kaur Kariha and Jagteshwar Singh Majithia,  center cooperative bank Patiala’s MD and Lok Sabha member Prof Prem Singh Chandumajra’s son Harinderpal Singh Chandumajra,  former chairman Resham Singh Thiara, Jathedar Ram Singh Dudhalan, member SGPC Gurbaksh Singh Khalsa and Mahinder Singh Hussainpur were also present.

           Speaking to the devotees CPS Ch Nand Lal  said that the main aim of Dharmik Darshan yatra was to remind people of Punjab about the contribution of Guru Sahiban and the priceless lives they laid for us. He added that the yatra was carrying rare 46 inches long kirpan, 22 inches long whip, Siri Sahib, one sword, Chola Sahib, manuscript, hair, comb and turban, 20 inches long iron arrow, three-and-a-half inch long Siri Sahib, 30 inches long wooden spear and five arrows.

 The historical initiative of SGPC and Punjab government, yatra was also given warm welcome at Railmajra, Taonsa, Fatehpur-Tajowal, Najra Jattan, PanialiKalan and Khurdm Jeowal abd Bachhua (old toll plaza), Kathgarh bus stand, Jalalpur, Mutton Jabbam Sudha Majra, Rakhran Bet, Kangana bridge and other places.  On reaching from Kangana bridge to Balachaur city the yatra was given a welcome at Gurudwara Sahib Mehendipur. At Bachhua, Sant Jagtar Singh had put up langar for devotees.

SP Gagan Ajit Singh and Dilbagh Singh Pannu,  SDM Balachaur Jagjit Singh, DSP Digvijay Kapil, tehsildar Amarjit Singh and Gurjinder Singh has made special arrangements for the yatra.

On its arrival in Balachaur area CPS Ch Nand Lal, Harjinderpal Singh Chandumajra, member SGOC Gurbaksh Singh Khalsa, Jathedar Ram Singh Dudhalan, chairman market committee Tarlochan Singh Rakran, Jaspal Singh Jadli and others welcomed the yatra.

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PUNJAB BRACES UP FOR PADDY TRANSPLANTATION SEASON

·         DIRECTIONS ISSUED TO CANAL WING TO RUN CANALS ON FULL CAPACITY

·         STATE ALL PREPARED TO MEET CHALLENGE OF DEFICIENT MONSOON

·         FULLY COMMITTED TO SUPPLY FULL CAPACITY UP TO TAIL ENDS OF EVERY CANAL

·         DIRECTIONS ISSUED TO STRENGTHEN EMBANKMENTS & CHECK SABOTAGE BY MISCREANTS

Chandigarh, June 12:

            The Punjab Irrigation department today issued directions to canal wing to be fully prepared to meet the total canal irrigation requirement of canal fed area by ensuring that all canals in the state run to the full capacity and to ensure that water was available to full capacity even in the remote areas till the tail ends.

According to an official spokesman, the state government was fully seized of the increased irrigation requirement from June 15 with the onset of paddy transplantation all over the state and total canal wing has been put on full alert to monitor the situation and constitute mobile teams to guard the embankments of canals flowing on full capacity.

The Chief Engineer Canals has been directed to mobilise total stall and cancel the leave of all staff members for the month of June and July to ensure canal water to all canal fed areas of the state. The Spokesman said that the Chief Minister Mr Parkash Singh Badal has already directed the irrigation department to be fully prepared for the challenge of deficient monsoons and ensure that farmers do not have to suffer due to deficient rain and it should be imperative for the irrigation department to run canals on full capacity especially during transplantation season.

Seeking the cooperation of villagers living along the embankments of canals, the spokesman said that village sarpanches have been told to organize Thikri Pehras along the embankments to check seepage from embankments and any possible sabotage by miscreants. The spokesman said that Punjab government understands the fact that water was basic necessity of every farmer and was fully committed to meet irrigation requirements during paddy season.

            It may be added that the canals in Punjab run in 14500 km. irrigating 30.88 lac hectares of land.  Sirhind canal, Bhakhra Canal, Bist Doab Canal, Upper Bari Doab Canal, Sirhind Feeder, Eastern Canal and Shah Nehar canal supply water in different areas of the State for irrigation and drinking purposes.

The spokesman said that the Department of Irrigation has been on toes during the last about three months to clean and rejuvenate the canals, its branches and distributaries with a view to ensure uninterrupted supply of water for irrigation during Kharif 2015. The department has incurred an expenditure of about Rs.100crores for the purpose.

He said that full supply of water has been released in the canals after repair/cleaning/ renovation in the canals in Punjab. He said that people should not be misled by the propaganda by the vested elements that canal water in certain areas have been stopped due to non-payment of cess and said that no canal water has been stopped anywhere in the state.

 The spokesman said that more water as compared to last year is available in the Bhakhra Nangal, Pong Dam and Ranjit Sagar Dam which will ensure adequate supply of water in canals during Kharif 2015, said Kahan Singh Pannu, Secretary Irrigation, Punjab. He further clarified that the Department is fully geared to ensure continuous running of canals for water supply to the farmers during Kharif 2015 especially when the meteorology Department has indicated lesser rain.

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 BADAL HOLD MEETINGS FOR FINALIZING ARRANGEMENTS FOR THE CELEBRATIONS OF 350TH FOUNDATION DAY OF SRI ANANDPUR SAHIB

PM ALONG WITH SEVERAL OTHER KEY DIGNITARIES TO PARTICIPATE IN THIS MEGA EVENT

Chandigarh, June 12-

The Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today held a series of meetings, here at Punjab Bhawan, with the senior leaders of the SAD-BJP included Cabinet Ministers, Chief Parliamentary Secretaries, MLAs besides the officers of the state government to finalize the arrangements for the celebrations of 350th foundation day of Sri Anandpur Sahib.

Disclosing this here today a spokesperson of the Chief Minister Office said that Mr. Badal exhorted the leaders of SAD-BJP and the top brass of the government to elicit huge participation of the people from different walks of life on this historic event. He said that elaborate arrangements have been made to elicit the participation of over one lakh devotees from across the state, which would be ferried at the historic place in a fleet over 3000 buses. He said that this mega event was being organized on the completion of 350 years of Sri Anandpur Sahib- the city of bliss. Mr. Badal said that the holy city of Sri Anandpur Sahib has the privilege of having been founded by the Ninth Guru, Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji in 1665, who sacrificed his life to uphold human dignity and human rights adding that this revered place was also the birthplace of Khalsa as in the year 1699 the tenth master of Sikhs Sri Guru Gobind Singh Ji laid the foundation of Khalsa Panth at this sacred land on the historic day of Baisakhi.

The Chief Minister said that this year June 19 marks the completion of 350 years of coming of this holy town in existence so the state government was commemorating this gala event from June 17-19 with all its humility and enthusiasm to pay glorious tributes to the great legacy of this historic town in a befitting manner. Mr. Badal said that this was a special event for the Punjabis as the Prime Minister of India Mr. Narendra Modi, several Union Ministers, Chief Ministers of other states and other dignitaries would take part in this function on June 19.

Likewise, the Chief Minister said that in line with the ideology of Sikhism regarding secularism and Unity in Diversity the leaders of all the religions have also been invited in this mega event. He said that highly revered religious leader from across the globe would participate in this mega event. Mr. Badal called upon the people to celebrate this mega event collectively with great enthusiasm thereby rising above the parochial considerations of caste, color, creed and religion in order to demonstrate the ethos of secularism and religious tolerance.

Meanwhile, the Chief Minister deputed the Education Minister and Secretary Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) Dr. Daljit Singh Cheema and his Special Principal Secretary Mr. KJS Cheema to overall supervise the arrangements and ensure comfortable night stay of the people arriving at Sri Anandpur Sahib during these days.

Prominent amongst other present on the occasion included Cabinet Ministers Dr. Daljeet Singh Cheema, Mr. Sohan Singh Thandal, Mr. Sikander Singh Maluka and Mr. Janmeja Singh Sekhon, Rajya Sabha MPs Mr. Sukhdev Singh Dhindsa, Mr. Balwinder Singh Bhunder and Mr. Avinash Rai Khanna, Lok Sabha MP Prof. Prem Singh Chandumajra, Advisor to Chief Minister on National Affairs and Media Mr. Harcharan Bains, Advisor to Chief Minister Mr. Tishan Sud, Chief Parliamentary Secretaries Sant Balbir Singh Ghunas, Mrs. Nesara Khatoon, Mr. Sarup Chand Singla and Babu Parkash Chand Garg, former MP Bibi Paramjeet Kaur Gulshan, senior Akali leader Mr. Darbara Singh Guru and Special Principal Secretary to Chief Minister Mr. KJS Cheema.

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 Policy amended for allotment of sites to hospitals and medical universities

(Para-medical and pharmacy institutions allowed to avail opportunity)

Chandigarh, June 12- Punjab Government has modified the medicity policy-2014 regarding the allotment of land or plots for hospitals, multi-specialty hospitals, medical university or medical college-cum-hospital and medical research centre in medicity being setup in New Chandigarh in SAS Nagar district.

Disclosing this, an official spokesperson said that eligibility criteria for allotment of sites for hospitals and medical university have been modified besides hospitals and institutions for para-medical courses and pharmacy classes were also allowed along with primary use of land.

He informed that as per modified policy state and central government including its autonomous bodies related to this field would be eligible for allotment of sites to setup multi-specialty hospital. In addition to this firms, society, trusts, subsidiary or limited company registered in India, foreign institutions or hospitals, joint venture by the Indian applicant with foreign institutions, managing hospital having at least 300 beds or multi-specialty hospital of minimum 100 beds, will also be eligible for allotment of site if its total revenue from hospital business was more than Rs. 100 crores for the last 2 financial years.

The spokesman further added that foreign institutions or hospitals could also apply for site provided that it would setup a 100 percent subsidiary in India and entire equity of foreign promoter should be subject to a minimum lock-in period of 10 years. He said in the case of joint venture with foreign partner the application should be submitted by the special purpose vehicle (SPV) business entity by creating an Indian limited liability company for the purpose of hospital business.

Divulging eligibility criteria for allotment of sites for medical university or medical college-cum-hospital, he said the site would be allotted to any state government, union territory, university, autonomous body promoted by centre or state government, registered society, charitable trust, companies, foreign institutions, joint ventures and subsidiary companies.

He said the all details including mode of payment, construction period, extension time, project implementation, transfer of ownership, use of site and other general conditions have been mentioned in the notification issued by the development authority. EOM

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CM MOURNS DEATH OF NEK CHAND

TERMS HIS DEATH AS A HUGE LOSS FOR THE SOCIETY

SUKHBIR BADAL AND MAJITHIA ALSO CONDOLES DEMISE OF CREATOR OF ROCK GARDEN

Chandigarh, June 12-

Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today expressed profound grief and sorrow over the demise of Mr. Nek Chand, the creator of world famous Rock Garden, who passed away at a hospital last night following  a cardiac arrest.

In a condolence message, the Chief Minister said that Mr. Nek Chand would be ever remembered by one and all for his masterpiece creation of Rock Garden in the city beautiful, which was an example of his creativity, aesthetics, hard work and zeal to serve the society in his own unique way. He said that this iconic Rock Garden was built from waste and other unused household materials, which showed the path to people to sensibly utilise this waste material. “In the death of Mr. Nek Chand a huge void has been created in the world of art and craft, which will be difficult to be filled in the near future” added Mr. Badal.

Sharing his heartfelt sympathies with the members of the bereaved family, the Chief Minister prayed to the Almighty to grant eternal peace to the departed soul and give courage to family members to bear this huge loss in this hour of crisis.

Meanwhile, the Deputy Chief Minister Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal and Information and Public Relations Minister Mr. Bikram Singh Majithia also condoled the death of Mr. Nek Chand.

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 CM MOURNS DEATH OF 14 PERSONS IN A ROAD ACCIDENT NEAR BANGA

·         Deputy CM and Revenue Minister also express deep grief over the incident

 Chandigarh, June 12- Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today expressed profound grief and anguish over the tragic road accident in which 14 persons including a child were killed after a private Bus rammed into a tree near old Toll Plaza on Phagwara-Banga road in District Shaheed Bhagat Singh Nagar.

Sharing his heartfelt sympathies with the members of the bereaved families, the Chief Minister prayed to the Almighty to give them courage to bear this irreparable loss in the hour of crisis and grant peace to the departed souls.

                Meanwhile, the Deputy Chief Minister Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal and Revenue and Public Relations Minister Mr. Bikram Singh Majithia also shared their heartfelt condolences over this tragic incident.

                Deputy CM also directed civil administration to provide free medical treatment to the injured in the government hospitals. He also directed the Civil and Police administration to extend all possible help to ensure best and free treatment to all the injured and make elaborate arrangements to send the bodies of the victims at their native places.

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Punjab constitutes state council for welfare of old age persons

 Chandigarh, June 12 - The Punjab Government has constituted a state council for the welfare of old age persons in the state.

A spokesman of the state government today said the council would be headed by Minister for social security, women and child development. Six well known personalities working for the welfare of old age citizens and related activities have also been nominated into this council and would have 2 years term.

The council constituted under the welfare rules 2012 comprises secretary social security, principal secretary health and family welfare, principal secretary home and justice, principal secretary information and public relations, DGP Punjab, legal remembrance and secretary parliamentary affairs would be its executive members whereas director social security appointed as member secretary.

Three prominent persons working in the field of social welfare included as members are president senior citizen's federation Satpal Karkara, retired IAS, president Mohali welfare society Pritam Singh Dodh and president Bhai Gahnniaya Ji charitable trust Hoshiarpur Ujjal Singh. Besides this, three senior citizens Babu Lal Shoker from Fazilka, Tajinder Singh Fazilka and Pritibha Sharma retired principal Patiala are also nominated as members of this council. EOM

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KOHAR EXPRESSES PROFOUND GRIEF THE TRAGIC ROAD ACCIDENT

Chandigarh, June 12-

 Punjab Transport Minister S. Ajit Singh Kohar today expressed profound grief and anguish over the tragic road accident in which 7 males, 6 females and a ten years old baby were killed after a private Bus rammed into a tree near old Toll Plaza on Phagwara-Banga road in District Shaheed Bhagat Singh Nagar. It is mentioned here that bus carried 56 passengers at the time of  accident.

 Mr. Kohar also expressed his heart felt sympathies with the members of the bereaved families and pray to the Almighty to give strength to bear this irreparable lose and grant peace to the departed souls and he also prayed for early well being and betterment of injured in the accident.

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 Punjab constitutes four members committee to address issues of punjabi diaspora

 Chandigarh, June12: The Punjab Government has constitutes a four members panel under the chairmanship of NRIs Affairs Minister Jathedar Tota Singh to address the issues pertaining to Punjabi Diaspora whether land, PO or other issues with a deadline of 15 days to put a detailed report in this regard.

           Disclosing this here today an official spokesperson said the state has formulated a plan to resolve the issues of Punjabi Diaspora within a stipulated time frame and the formation of this committee was also part of plan. He said that Mr. Mahesh Inder Singh Grewal Advisor/ Chief Minister, Shri Karan. A.Singh, IAS Additional Chief Secretary Revenue, Shri B.Purushartha, IAS Commissioner NRI’s Affairs and Shri Manvesh Singh IAS Additional Chief Secretary to Deputy Chief Minister would be the member of this committee, which would submit its report of the problems faced by the NRIs of the issues of land dispute, land vision and Girdawari.  He said that special courts for NRI’s at Jalandhar has already set up to save the precious time of NRI’s and provide justice in time bound manner and it could also  encourage the NRI’s to invest in Punjab.

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DARSHAN DIDAR YATRA TO ENTER RUPNAGAR TOMORROW
Rupnagar, June 12:
      The devotees of Rupnagar district would have darshan of the relics of Guru Sahiban on June 13. The Darshan Didar Yatra, a unique initiative of the Punjab Government and Shiromani Gurudwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) for the darshan of the relics of three Sikh Guru's would be entering the district tomorrow. It would be welcomed by Punjab Education Minister Dr Daljit Singh Cheema along with district administration officials.
      The Darshan Didar Yatra started on May 6 from Gurudwara Sri Dukhniwaran Sahib in Patiala and after passing through all the districts of state will culminate at Sri Anandpur Sahib on June 18. Tomorrow, it would enter the Rupnagar district from village Budha Bheora side.
      While providing information regarding the Darshan Didar Yatra in Rupnagar district, Dr Daljit Singh Cheema informed that langar's have been planned at Budha Bheora, Phool, Khairabad, Shampura, Choti Haweli and Ranjit Avenue. He informed that Paramjit Singh Makkar, President, Nagar Council, would be making all arrangements for the yatra within the city. An impressive tent (gazebo) has been installed in Bela Chowk and here, Baba Maan Singh Pehowa Wale would be setting up Langar.
      Dr Cheema lauded the efforts of Punjab government and SGPC for starting this yatra, which would educate the youth about our religion, history and legacy. They said that the yatra carries relics of Sri Guru Hargobind Sahib, Sri Guru Teg Bahadar Sahib and Sri Guru Gobind Singh Ji displayed in a specially crafted 33 feet long bus.
      Paramjit Singh Makkar informed that the yatra route has been divided into four different sectors-HMT to Bela Chowk, Bela Chowk to Government College, Government College to New Bridge and New Bridge to Gurudwara Sri Bhatha Sahib. He informed that for maintaining cleanliness and beautification of each sector, different officials have been deputed. He informed that langar's would be set up on different places from Bela Chowk to Giani Zail Singh Nagar.

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With a great honour & devotion, the Dharmik Darshan Deedar Yatra moved from Gurudwara Amb Sahib to Chandigarh.

Thousands of devotees felt blessed after having darshans of Gurus relics.

After Chandigarh, the yatra will have a halt at Gurudwara Amb Sahib.

SAS Nagar: 11 June

           The Dharmik Darshan Deedar Yatra, a unique initiative of the Punjab Government & Siromani Gurudwara Prabandhak Committee (SGPC) for the darshans of relics of Gurus, reached at district SAS Nagar. Here the yatra moved through various places and thousands opf devotees felt blessed after having darshans of gurus relics. Keeping in view the eagerness & devotion of various devotees from Chandigarh, the yatra was moved towards Chandigarh. During this a contingent of Punjab Police under the headship of DSP Rajpal Singh also gave a guard of honour to the Darshan Deedar Yatra. During this along with thousand of devotees Ex-Cabinet Minister S. Balwant Singh Ramuwalia, Chairperson District Planning Committee Bibi Amanjot kaur ramuwalia, Distyrict President (Urban) S. Joginder Singh Salaich, Jathebandak Secretary Amrik Singh Mohali, Chairman Market Kharar Jathedar Baljeet Singh Kumbhran, Councillor Gurmukh Singh Sohal, Manager Gurudwara Amb Sahib S. Joga Singh, Sh. Jatinder Pal Singh JP were also present. From District Administration Deputy Commissioner Sh. Tejinder Pal Singh Sidhu, SSP Sh. Gurpreet Singh Bhullar, SP Sh. Harpal Singh Sandhu, SDM Sh. Lakhmeer Singh also have the darshans of gurus relics as a devotee and felt blessed.

                   Before proceeding of yatra, Ardas was performed at gurudwara Amb Sahib and the yatra was led by Panj Piara's. Before proceeding of yatra, Panj Piara's were honoured with siropao by Deputy Commissioner Sh. Tejinder Pals Singh Sidhu, Ex-Cabinet Minister S. Balwant Singh Ramuwalia, Bibi Amanjot kaur ramuwalia, SGPC member Bibi Harjinder kaur. A lot of eagerness and excitement was seen among the devotees. The religious processions were having relics related to sixth Patshah Sri Guru Hargobind sahib, ninth patshah Sri Guru Teg Bahadar Sahib and Tenth Patshah Sri Guru Gobind Singh Ji. Thousand of devotees have darshans of rare relics including 46 inches long sword and 22 inch long whip related to Guru Hargobind Sahib, similarly there is a Siri Sahib related to Sri Guru Teg Bahadar Ji that has "Sat Sri Akal Guru Teg Bahadar" engraved on it. There are ten relics related to Sri Guru Gobind Singh Ki. Amongst the swords exhibited one sword was gifted by Rai Kalha.

                The relics also include Chola Sahib, manuscript, hair, comb and turban, 20 inches long iron arrow, three-and-a-half inch long Siri Sahib, 30 inches long wooden spear  and five arrows. The Darshan Yatra having through various sectors of Chandigarh will take halt at Gurudwara Amb Sahib Mohali & then will proceed for next destination.

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PUNJAB GOVERNMENT ISSUES TRANSFERS POLICY 

Chandigarh, June 10:           

The Punjab Government today issued guidelines for the general postings and transfers of officers and officials of the government in the state during 2015-16.

            Disclosing this here today, a spokesman of the Punjab Government said that the transfers would be done from 1st June, 2015 to 30 June, 2015.

            Giving details of the broad guidelines to be adopted for the transfers the spokesman said that as per the policy of the state government transfers would be kept to the barest minimum and would be made against vacant post except where the transfers were justified on administrative or compassionate grounds. He also said the employees whether gazetted or non-gazetted due to retire within next two years, would be allowed to continue in the same district or at the same station of postings till retirement as far as possible.

            Referring to the transfer policy for couple cases, he said that when husband and wife both were serving the Government it was desirable to keep them at one station for a period of not more than five years, thereafter they would be transferred as per the policy. Even in the cases where the wife was in government service and the husband was working in private under taking, the same attitude would be adopted. However, efforts would be made to post unmarried girls and widows at stations suitable to them as far as possible. The spokesman explained that unmarried girls and widows would be given preference over couple cases in the matter of posting and transfers at stations convenient to them.

            The spokesman further said that to mitigate the suffering of the handicapped and the blind employees, the state government would be considerate in posting and transferring them. Sympathetic attitude would be adopted while posting or transferring a government employee or officers whose child was mentally challenged and efforts would be made to post them at the place of their choice.

            Adding further, he said that a stay of three years and five years would be treated respectively as the minimum and maximum period at a particular place. Similarly for employees transferable within the state particularly Group 'A' and Group 'B' officers, no employee would be allowed to serve in one district beyond a period of 7 years in his center service, within particular office, seats having sensitive nature of work such as extensive public dealings, establishment, monetary sanctions etc. would be clearly defined and maximum stay would be kept at 2 years. Premature transfers i.e. transfer of any employee before he has completed minimum three years would not be ordered except under rare circumstances of punishment or clearly spelt out administrative reasons, the spokesman clarified. The employees or officers who were posted in the border areas, bet areas and Kandi areas would remain there for a minimum period of 2 years, he added.  

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PUNJAB TO IMPART WORLD CLASS FREE TRAINING TO SENIOR AND MID LEVEL OFFICERS

 Chandigarh, June 10:

            The Punjab government would provide free of cost International level training to its senior and mid level IAS and PCS officers from renowned Indian school of business (ISB), Mohali.  A memorandum of understanding with Indian school of business had been signed recently in this regard.

            Divulging the details, an official spokesman said that ISB would arrange free boarding and loading to the officials. He said that every year ISB would impart training to 100 officers of the state and the training schedule of  year 2015-16 have already been issued. ISB will provide training to 3-4 officers on various subjects including social media and marketing strategies. "In case the number of participants for a particular training programme exceeds 4 officers, the director MGSIPA will finalize the list of participants" he added.

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PSPCL launches online quick bill payments for 46 towns

(No transaction charges through Net Banking)

 (433 easy bill outlets have been setup in Punjab)

 Chandigarh, June 10 – With a view to facilitate the consumers for easy payments of electricity bills the Punjab State Power Corporation Limited (PSPCL) has launched online quick bill payment system in the state. In addition to this 433 easy bill outlets have also been setup in Punjab for making online payments without paying any charges.

Disclosing this here today a spokesman of the state government said that in pursuance of governance reforms initiated in the state by the Punjab Deputy Chief Minister, who also holds power portfolio, PSPCL has also implemented various citizen centric services online to help the consumers. In addition to online deposit of bills, the corporation has launched 24x7 centralised helpline, online registration of complaints and state-of-the-art customer care centres.

Giving details he said under this online payment gateway project, consumers in 46 major towns have been provided this facility in first phase and rest areas of the state would be covered in next 6 months. He informed that 46 towns covered under first phase included Patiala, Gurdaspur, SAS Nagar, Gidderbaha, Jaito, Nangal, Patti, Nakodar, Sirhind, Nawanshahr, Malout, Rupnagar, Rajpura, Samana, Tarntaran, Faridkot, Dhuri, Kotkapura, Muktsar, Khanna, Malerkotla, Kharar, Sunam, Zira, Nabha, Ferozpur Cantt., Jalalabad, Mandi Gobindgarh, Batala, Abohar, Sangrur, Phagwara, Ferozpur City, Mansa, Barnala, Rampura Phul, Jagraon, Fazilka, Hoshiarpur, Kapurthala, Pathankot, Bathinda, Jalandhar Cantt., Jalandhar, Amritsar, Moga and Ludhiana where consumers could view their electricity bills, download receipts after payments and lodge complaints online on the portal at www.pspcl.in.

The spokesman said only current bills or due payments could be deposited online and bill statement would be available online within 3-4 days after consumer gets its hard copy. "Consumers could download receipt after payment by entering consumer account number and there will be no transaction charges for bill payments through net banking", he added.

He also made it clear that in case consumer account was debited but receipt was not generated, the same would be reflected in consumer account within next 2 working days. He informed that consumers could file their complaints related to payment deduction without generation of receipt on bill desk at 011-46869004, 011-46869005, 011-46869010, 08800184336 or send emails at charushila@billdesk.com and pspcl@billdesk.com. EOM

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LIMIT OF RS 50000/- GIVEN TO THE PACS BY THE COOPERATIVE BANKS FOR THE PURCHASE OF GOODS/STOCK HIKED TO RS 1 LAKH

MOVE AIMED AT ENHANCING THE VOLUME OF BUSINESS OF THE PACS BESIDES PROVIDING BETTER GOODS AND SERVICES TO THE FARMERS AT THEIR DOOR STEPS

NOD FOR ALLOWING PACS TO PURCHASE SUGAR FROM COOPERATIVE SUGAR MILLS

COOPERATIVE BANKS AND THE COOPERATIVE SOCIETIES TO JOINTLY BEAR THE BURDEN OF OTS

GREEN SIGNAL FOR ALLOWING CREDIT LIMIT TO FARMERS FOR THE PURCHASE OF CATTLE FEED

PSCM HOLDS REVIEW MEETING OF COOPERATIVE DEPARTMENT

Chandigarh, June 10-

In order to enhance the volume of business of the Primary Agricultural Cooperative Societies (PACS) besides providing better goods and services to the farmers at their door steps, the Punjab government has decided to enhance the limit of Rs 50000/- to the societies for the purchase of goods/stock to Rs 1 lakh. 

A decision to this effect was taken by Principal Secretary to Chief Minister and Financial Commissioner (Cooperation) Mr. SK Sandhu, while presiding over a review meeting, with the Presidents and Secretaries of Primary Agriculture Cooperative Societies and milk producing cooperative societies.

It was decided in the meeting to enhance the limit of Rs 50000/- given to the Primary Agricultural Cooperative Societies by the Cooperative Banks for the purchase of goods/stock to Rs 1 lakh.  These societies were supplying consumer goods also at the door step of the farmers and the Cooperative banks provide a limit of Rs 50000/- to the societies for the purchase of goods/stock. But as per the fresh decision societies could now be sanctioned more than Rs 100000/- credit limit, if they so require depending upon the average business done by the society during the last six months. It was also decided to give more autonomy to the cooperative societies to sell consumer products depending upon the local requirements.

It was also decided to allow Primary Cooperative Agriculture Societies to procure the sugar from various Cooperative sugar mills in the state for selling it to its members at a relatively cheaper rate. Likewise, Milkfed has been asked to provide better and quick veterinary services to members of the milk producers’ cooperative societies attached to the various milk plants. 

In another significant decision it was also decided that the burden of relief, to be given to the farmers under the recently launched One Time Settlement Scheme (O.T.S) to the debt ridden farmers by the Punjab State Cooperative bank, would not be borne by the cooperative societies only rather it would be shared by the cooperative bank and the cooperative societies jointly. It would give relief to the farmers in redressing their loans on one hand and help cooperative societies and the banks to fetch more money into circulation and strengthen their financial position on the other.

It was also decided in the meeting to allow credit limit to farmers for the purchase of cattle feed in addition to the existing Maximum Credit Limits (MCL) to support the dairy activities. Pertinently, the Cooperative Bank provide funds to member farmers of the societies in the shape of credit limits for cash loans as well as purchase of fertilizer and other agri-inputs and diesel etc.

In another significant decision aimed at felicitating the societies to supply various products of the Marked to its members at relatively cheaper rates, the state government has given approval to bring margin on the products of Markfed supplied through the cooperative societies at par with the private dealers of Markfed. Earlier, Markfed was giving lesser margin to the cooperative societies as compared to its private dealers.

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 MAHARASHTRA CM CONFERS 14TH SANT NAMDEV NATIONAL AWARD- 2015 ON BADAL FOR PROMOTING PEACE, COMMUNAL HARMONY AND UNIVERSAL BROTHERHOOD

BADAL TERMS PEACE, COMMUNAL HARMONY AND UNIVERSAL BROTHERHOOD AS THE‘ DEAREST AND MOST IMPORTANT’ FIELD IN HIS LIFE

RETURNS AWARD MONEY OF RS 1,01,000 TO THE SARHAD FOUNDATION

URGING IT TO UTILISE THIS SUM ON THE ONGOING SOCIO-CULTURAL PROGRAMS AND OTHER DEVELOPMENT ACTIVITIES.

BATS FOR REGULAR EXCHANGE OF YOUTH, STUDENTS, PROGRESSIVE FARMERS, ARTISTES AND CULTURAL ICONS FOR ENHANCING SOCIAL, CULTURAL AND ECONOMIC TIES WITH MAHARASHTRA

FADNAVIS DESCRIBES CM AS IDEAL CHOICE FOR THIS COVETED HONOUR

PLEDGES FULL SUPPORT AND COOPERATION TO PUNJAB GOVERNMENT FOR TIMELY COMPLETION OF DEVELOPMENT PROJECTS AT GHUMAN

Pune (Maharashtra), June 10-

Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal was today conferred the prestigious 14th Sant Namdev National Award- 2015 for promoting peace, communal harmony and universal brotherhood at an impressive function organised here by the Sarhad foundation.

          This award was bestowed upon the Chief Minister by the Maharashtra Chief Minister Mr. Devendra Phadnavis in the presence of the organisers of the Sarhad foundation. 

Expressing gratitude to the organisers for this coveted honor, the Chief Minister thanked the ‘Sarhad’ organization for this prestigious award which they have bestowed upon him. Mr. Badal said that though he had received several awards in different fields during the past but this award has a very unique significance for him, because it was being given for work in a field which was the ‘dearest and most important’ field in his life. The Chief Minister said that he has always rated peace and communal harmony as sacred goals and tasks of his life. He has ever sought inspiration from the life and philosophy of our great Gurus, saints and seers for the accomplishment of these cherished tasks.

The Chief Minister said that it was a matter of great pride and satisfaction for him that the people Punjab have always endorsed his firm commitment and concerted efforts to foster mutual goodwill, brotherhood, amity and religious tolerance in the society. Felicitating the Sarhad organization for organising this mega event, Mr. Badal said that he was deeply overwhelmed by the gesture of the Sarhad foundation for honouring him with this prestigious award, which was also reflective of unbounded love and affection showered upon him on the behalf of Punjabis by the people of Maharashtra. “I am sure this award will go a long way in further strengthening the bonds of love, friendship and bonhomie amongst the people of Punjab and Maharashtra as both these states are known for their martial spirit, valor, patriotism besides age old friendly ties” he added.

In a bid to further strengthen the bonds of love, peace and goodwill between the people of Punjab and Maharashtra, the Chief Minister urged his Maharashtra counterpart Mr. Devendra Phadnavis emphasising for regular exchange of youth, students, progressive farmers, artistes and cultural icons for enhancing social, cultural and economic ties. On the occasion, Mr. Badal was honoured with citation, Rs 1,01,000 and momento by the Sarhad foundation. As a goodwill gesture, the Chief Minister returned the award money to the foundation urging them to utilise this sum on the ongoing socio-cultural programs and other development activities.     

Paying floral tributes to Bhagat Nam Dev Ji, the Chief Minister said that his sacred “bani” inspired people from all over the country to follow the path of peace, love and compassion for mankind. He said that as many as 61 sacred hymns (shabads) of Sant Namdev Ji were personally selected by the fifth Guru Sahib, Guru Arjan Devi ji Maharaj, for inclusion in Sri Guru Granth Sahib. “Bhagat Namdev Ji was a great icon of Bhakti Movement whose teachings and work have transcended the boundaries of the state. Life, teachings and work of Bhagat Namdev Ji are as inspiriting today, as they were seven hundred years ago” added Mr. Badal.

Recalling special and deep spiritual and historical bonds between Punjab and Maharashtra, the Chief Minister said that whereas great spiritual figures like Sant Nam Dev ji travelled to Punjab and spent the last years of his life in village Ghuman, the Tenth Master, Guru Gobind Singh ji Maharaj travelled to Maharashtra and spent the last days of his life here – and he left for heavenly abode at Hazur Sahib in Nanded S. He further said that the final direction to the Sikh masses to regard Sri Guru Granth Sahib as their everlasting living Guru were also given at, Sri Hazur Sahib, Nanded which was one of the five Takhts, seats of highest religious and worldly authority for the Sikh masses.

Congratulating Mr. Badal for having been honoured by the Sarhad organisation with this national award, the Maharashtra Chief Minister Mr. Devendra Phadnavis averred that none else than him deserved this coveted award in recognition to his immense contribution for promoting peace, communal harmony and universal brotherhood. He thanked the Chief Minister for organising a magnificent function at village Ghuman in Punjab recently and assured him that the Maharashtra government would extend all possible help and cooperation apart from making all out efforts to accomplish the development works and projects as announced by him. 

The Chief Minister was accompanied by his Special Principal Secretary Mr. KJS Cheema.

Prominent amongst other present on the occasion included President Mumbai Nav Nirman Sena (MNS) Mr. Raj Thackeray, Minister of Food, Civil supplies & Consumer Protection, Government of Maharashtra Mr. Girish Bapat, President 88th Akhil Bhartiya Marathi Sahit Samelan (ABMSS) Ghuman Dr. Sadanand More, Chairman, 88th (ABMSS) Ghuman Mr. Bharat Desadla and Sarhad President, Sanjay Nahar.

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 SCIENCE, TECHNOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENT DEPARTMENT APPOINTS NODAL OFFICER

TO REDRESS GREIVANCES RECEIVED DURING ONLINE SANGAT DARSHAN

Chandigarh, June 10:

The Science, Technology and Environment Department, Government of Punjab, has appointed Mr. Mohinder Singh as the Nodal Officer for the purpose of redressing the grievances received during online Sangat Darshan of Deputy Chief Minister.

Stating this, an official spokesperson said that this step is in keeping with the policy of the department to expedite the redressal of grievances. The spokesperson also said that the Nodal Officer can be reached at Room No. 612, 6th Floor, Punjab Civil Secretariat-2, Sector-9, Chandigarh, Mobile No.---9463346015. He can also be contacted at- sangatdarshansste@gmail.com

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DEPARTMENTS INSTRUCTED TO APPOINT NODAL OFFICERS

REGARDING ACTION TAKEN ON ASSURANCES GIVEN IN VIDHAN SABHA

OFFICERS NOT BELOW THE RANK OF DEPUTY SECRETARY TO BE APPOINTED

Chandigarh, June 10:

The Punjab Government today issued directions to all the Departmental Heads to appoint the Nodal Officers regarding the action taken on the assurances, concerning their respective departments, given in the Vidhan Sabha.

Stating this, an official spokesperson said that the Nodal Officers should not be below the rank of Deputy Secretary. The spokesperson further said that the intimation must also be sent to Secretary, Vidhan Sabha after appointing the nodal Officer with a copy to the Parliamentary Affairs Department.  

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GUIDELINES FOR THE GOVT. EMPLOYEES FOR THE BYE ELECTION OF GRAM PANCHAYATS

CHANDIGARH, JUNE 10:

Punjab Election Commission has issued guidelines for the conduct of bye election of Gram Panchayats, 2015 to be held on 14-6-2015  to employees of the state under section 114,120 and 121 of the election commission act 1994.

According to Election Commission spokesman, the act clearly states that all the government employees must have to ensure an unbiased and impartial election. He also quote that officials must have to take care that they should not favour or support any particular party or campaign and conduct the election in a free and fair manner.

The spokesman further said that officials should also make sure that they must be present in those events or places where their presence is imperative so that the law and order can be maintained. They are not expected to be present on every tour of ministers unless it is required. Another thing which should be taken under the notice is that any expenditure incurred on election meeting held on the eve of election must be borne by the minister or the concerned party.

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DISTRICT PUBLIC RELATIONS OFFICE, FATEHGARH SAHIB

AFTER TWO DAY HALT IN FATEHGARH SAHIB, DARSHAN DIDAR YATRA PROCEEDS TOWARDS SAS NAGAR TODAY

Fatehgarh Sahib, June 10:

           The Darshan Didar Yatra, a unique initiative of the Punjab Government and Shiromani Gurudwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) for the darshan of the relics of three Sikh Guru's today left for SAS Nagar after a two day halt in Fatehgarh Sahib. Singh Sahib Giani Mal Singh, Jathedar of Takhat Sri Kesgarh Sahib, performed Ardas on the occasion. A contingent of Punjab Police led by DSP Hardavinder Singh Sandhu also gave a guard of honour.

      A sea of devotees had gathered on this occasion, and prominent among those present on the occasion included SGPC Executive Committee member Karnail Singh Panjoli, ADC Shruti Sharma, SSP Gurmeet Singh Randhawa, ADC (D) Sanjeev Garg, SDM Fatehgarh Sahib Pooja Syal Grewal, SDM Bassi Pathana Sukhdev Singh Mahal, SDM Amloh Dr Ravjot Grewal, SDM Khamano Arina Duggal, SP Daljit Singh Rana, SGPC members Ravinder Singh Khalsa and Gurpreet Singh Randhawa, Avtar Singh Sempla, Manager Amarjit Singh, Deputy Manager Rajinder Singh, besides several others.

      When the yatra reached Gurudwara Jyoti Saroop Sahib, thousands of devotees welcomed it with enthusiasm. On this occasion, Member of Parliament Prem Singh Chandumajra offered Siropas to the panj piaras. Prominent among those present here included Central Cooperative Bank MD Harinderpal Singh Chandumajra, Zila Parishad chairman Baljit Singh Bhutta, Hardev Singh Harpalpur, Davinder Singh Bhappu, Udham Singh, Ajaib Singh Jakhwali, Sher Singh, Davinder Singh Behlolpur, Sandeep Bholia, Karamjit Singh Bhagrana, Soma Rani, Paramjit Kaur Bhagrana, Kulwinder Singh Dera, Harvel Singh Madhopur, besides several others.

    The yatra then passed through Attewali, Kotla Bajwara, Bhaironpur, Dufera Chowk, Peer Jain Chowk, Isser Hail Jorepul, Badali Ala Singh and other villages before reaching Gurudwara Sahib in Chunni Kalan. Thousands of devotees welcomed the yatra here. On this occasion, Bassi Pathana MLA Justice Nirmal Singh and Halqa incharge Fatehgarh Sahib Didar Singh Bhatti offered siropas to the panj piaras. Prominent among those present here included former minister Randhir Singh Cheema, SAD Executive Committee member Ranjit Singh Libra, Nagar Council Sirhand president Tarlok Singh Bajwa, Sharanjit Singh Rajwara, Bhupinder Singh Hans, Baba Tarsem Singh, Davinder Singh Ladi, Amrik Singh Attewali, Karamjit Singh, Hardeep Singh, Sarabjit Kaur Baby, Manpreet Singh, Parvinder Singh Somal, Jasmel Singh Badala, Darshan Singh Billa, Iqbal Singh Bali, Lakhbir Singh Babla, Pardeep Singh Kalaur, Daulat Ram, besides several others.

      From here, the Darshan Didar Yatra reached SAS Nagar district after passing through the Morinda T-Point and SYL Canal. For the devotees, several stalls of chabeel and langar were set up throughout the way.

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AICC forms 31member committee for the Dr B.R. Ambedkar”s 125th year of birth

Bajwa as Chairman, Jakhar as Vice Chairman, Chabbewal as Convener

Chandigarh: 10-06-15

The All India Congress Committee has approved a committee of 31 members of PPCC for the celebrations of DR B.R.Ambedkars 125th year of birth. The committee will comprise S Partap Singh Bajwa, Presdent PPCC as the chairman, Sh Sunil Jakhar, CLP as the vice chairmen and Dr Raj Kumar Chabbewal as the convener.

The other members include Capt. Amarinder Singh, Smt Ambika Soni, Bibi Rajinder Kaur Bhattal, S. Ravneet Singh Bittu, Ch Santokh Singh , Sh. Mohinder Singh KP, S. Shamsher Singh Dullo, S. Lal Singh, S. H.S. Hanspal, S. Sadhu Singh Dharamsot, S. Charanjeet Singh Channi, S. Sangat Singh Giljian, Sh. Brahm Mohindra, Sh. Bharat Bhushan Ashu , Smt. Harchand Kaur , S. Kuljit Singh Nagra, Dr. Raj Kumar Verka, Dr. Amar Singh , S. Mohinder Singh Kalyan, S. Joginder Singh Mann, Jang Bhadur Singh, Sh. Avtar Henry, Sh. Om Prakash Soni, Sh. Tarlochan Singh Soond, Smt. Aruna Chaudhary, Satnam Singh Kainth, Ajit Inder Singh Mofar and Darshan Singh Brar.

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Bajwa demands implementation of OROP decision

Modi’s motto now Jai Adani, Jai Ambani: Bajwa

Bhoa (Pathankot), June 8:

 The Punjab Congress President Mr Partap Singh Bajwa today said the Prime Minister Mr Narendra Modi had befooled the people of the country by raising the slogan of Jai Jawan, Jai Kisan before the Lok Sabha elections while his motto now was Jai Adani, Jai Ambani.

 He was today interacting with the people in the Bhoa reserve Assembly constituency as part of his mass contest programme to cover all the 34 reserve constituencies.

 Talking of shifting priorities of Mr Modi, the PPCC chief referred to the One Rank One Pension issue about which Mr Modi at his rally of ex-servicemen at Rewari that its implementation would be his first decision after forming the government but the same had been put on the back burner on one pretext or the other.

 He recalled it was due to the persistent efforts of Sh. Rahul Gandhi Vice President Indian National Congress that the UPA government had taken the decision in principle on this long pending major demand of the ex-servicemen and budget of Rs. 500 Crore was also allocated for implementation of OROP.

 “Mr Modi has not only backtracked from almost every promise of his but has even gone to the extent of cheating ex-servicemen on this issue. Moreover, the decision had already been taken by Dr. Manmohan Singh government and only the next step was to be taken”, he added.

 He expressed the apprehension that going by the delay in its implementation, the issue might be dropped. He made it clear that his party was clear that in case the para-military forces raised this demand, the same should also be givendue weightage and sympathetic consideration  keeping in view the service conditions.

 Referring to the proposed visit of the Prime Minister to Anandur Sahib to participate in 350th anniversary of the founding of the holy city, Mr Bajwa said Mr Modi had left Punjab totally disappointed during his last visit to the state that also happened to be his first after the Lok Sabha elections. there was no indication so far as his  second visit too would be nothing more than just a formality.

 He called upon the Chief minister Mr Parkash Singh Badal to ensure this time that the Prime Minister made some concrete announcements like package for the beleaguered farmers,  categoric assurance against uprooting the Punjabi farmers settled in Gujarat and industrial concessions to the state on the pattern of the hill states which were announced by the Atal Behari Vajpayee government but had proved detrimental for this border state.

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Rahul Gandhi to join padyatra in Punjab, approves PPCC programme

Bajwa briefs Rahul Gandhi about the ongoing programs

 New Delhi/ Chandigarh, June 4:

 The Congress Vice-President Mr Rahul Gandhi would join the padyatra being organised by the Punjab Pradesh Congress Committee from October 2 after the conclusion of the on-going programme to interact with the people in the 34 reserve Assembly constituencies to mobilise people against the degenerated and corrupt rule of the Akali Dal-BJP alliance in the state.

 This was conveyed  by Mr Gandhi to the state party chief  Mr Partap Singh Bajwa at a meeting in New Delhi today. Mr Bajwa apprised Mr Gandhi about the mass contact programme launched by the party with focus on dalits and weaker sections in particular across all the reserve constituencies. Under this programme, every section of the people is to be covered in general with special attention on the mobilisation of the down trodden.

 Mr Gandhi gave a green signal to Mr Bajwa to go ahead with the programme launched from Sri Hargobindpur on June 2 last. This programme would conclude on September 28. The programme is designed direct interaction of  Mr Bajwa  with every section of the society in that constituency with emphasis on informality. The feedback thus obtained would be passed on to the party high command for incorporation in the party’s policy programme. Two sessions are to be held in the same village to be finalized from each constituency on the same day.

 Mr Bajwa said Mr Gandhi would join the padyatra to be launched by the PPCC from October 2 from Pathankot to cover the entire state in six phases. In each phase the yatra will be done for 15 days.The padyatra would conclude at Amritsar after covering about 1000 kms.

 Mr Bajwa also apprised the party Vice-president about the agitations launched by the party on issues concerning the masses. He also briefed the Congress vice President about the Drug Issue agitation which was done by the PPCC in which ultimately the summons were issued by the enforcement directorate. He also cited the moga bus molestation case and how aggressively the PPCC took the issue to the streets ultimately the Hon’ble Punjab Haryana High court issued notices to the Deputy Chief Minister S Sukhbir Singh Badal and his orbit bus company. After the protest by PPCC outside the Faridkot jail the criminal offence against the students was taken back. The PPCC”s relentless fight for the upcoming resort of Badals at Pallanpur also made the Hon’ble High Court to intervene and stop the construction of the road to the resort.

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DISTRICT PUBLIC RELATIONS OFFICE, FATEHGARH SAHIB

SEA OF DEVOTEES HAVE DARSHAN OF RELICS OF GURU SAHIBAN AT FATEHGARH SAHIB

Fatehgarh Sahib, June 9:
        The Darshan Didar Yatra, carrying relics of Guru Sahiban, today saw a sea of humanity emerging to pay obeisance on yatra’s second day in Gurudwara Sri Fatehgarh Sahib. A sea of devotees including women, children, old aged and people from all walks of life started pouring in at Gurudwara Sri Fatehgarh Sahib since morning.
        The yatra has strike a chord with the young generation who are keen to know about the brave history of Sikhs. Being held with the efforts of CM Mr Parkash Singh Badal and the deputy CM Mr Sukhbir Badal, the yatra has cemented bonds of youngsters with the Gurus.
      Prominent among those present on the occasion included Bassi Pathana MLA Justice Nirmal Singh, Senior Akali leader Ranjit Singh Libra, Halqa incharge Fatehgarh Sahib Didar Singh Bhatti, SGPC Executive Committee member Karnail Singh Panjoli, Baba Hari Sinhh Randhawe Wale, Central Cooperative Bank MD Harinderpal Singh Chandumajra, Zila Parishad chairman Baljit Singh Bhutta, Youth Akali Dal district president Ajay Singh Libra, former Nagar Council president Gurwinder Singh Bhatti, SGPC member Ravinder Singh Khalsa, Avtar Singh Reya and Gurpreet Singh Randhawa, former SGPC member Bibi Surinder Kaur, ADC Shruti Sharma, SSP Gurmeet Singh Randhawa, manager Gurudwara Sri Fatehgarh Sahib Amarjit Singh, Deputy Manager Rajinder Singh, ADC (Development) Sanjeev Garg, SDM Pooja Syal Grewal, Nagar Council Sirhand president Tarlok Singh Bajwa, Harbhajan Singh Charnathal, Swaran Singh Charnathal, Malkit Singh Matharu, Amritpal Singh Raju, Kulwinder Singh Dera, Swaran Singh Gopalon, Gurcharan Singh Harbanspura, Gurwinder Singh Sohi, Councillor Ajit Kumar Manga, Naresh Sharma, Ashok Dhiman, Sher Singh, BJP leader Naresh Sareen, Manoj Gupta, besides several others.
      It is pertinent to mention that from Gurudwara Jyoti Saroop Sahib to Gurudwara Sri Fatehgarh Sahib, different stalls of Chabeel and Langar were set up.

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 VIGILANCE NABS JE RED HANDED ACCEPTING BRIBE

 CHANDIGARH, JUNE 9:

Sleuths of Vigilance Bureau today nabbed a Junior Engineer, POWERCOM red handed accepting bribe of Rs. 5000.

Disclosing this here today an official spokesperson of the Vigilance Bureau said that JE Gursharan Singh deputed at POWERCOM Sub Divison Manochahal, District Taran Taran was nabbed on the complaint of Sukhdev Singh S/o Jang Singh of village Valipur.

In his complainant to the Vigilance Bureau complainant has alleged that JE was demanding a bribe of Rs. 15000 from him to shift the load of one transformer to another and the deal was struck at Rs. 5000.

Acting on the tip off provided by the complainant a trap was laid by the team of Vigilance Bureau and the JE was apprehended red handed while accepting the bribe of Rs. 5000 from the complainant.

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Punjab Constitutes Committee to provide benefits of ACP Scheme

Chandigarh, June 9:

The Punjab Government has constituted a committee to provide benefits under Assured Career Progression to officers/officials of different categories.

          According to an official spokesman, on the directions given by Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal, the committee had been constituted to look into the issues of officers/officials under ACP scheme. He said that the committee will comprise two retired IAS and one retired PCS officers namely Mr. R.N. Gupta, Mr. H.S. Rakhra and Mr. Jaswant Singh respectively. He said committee will furnish its detailed report after hearing officers/officials besides administrations constraints and legal hurdles relating to ACP. 

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WORLD BANK LAUDS PUNJAB, AWARDS SECOND PROJECT OF RS. 2200 CRORE: RAKHRA

CHANDIGARH, JUNE 9:

Enthused by completion of project worth Rs. 1280 crore project before schedule, the World Bank has sanctioned another Rs. 2200 crore project to Punjab. The World Bank decided to sanction another project on the basis of completion of Rs. 1280 crore project sanctioned earlier, which had been completed before six month of its schedule time. 

          While disclosing this here Water Supply and Sanitation Minister Mr. Surjit Singh Rakhra said that this project will give impetus to ongoing project of providing 100 percent potable water and sanitation facilities. He was presiding over a training workshop here at Mahatma Gandhi State Public Administration Institute.  Mr. Rakhra said that World Bank had commended Punjab for its pro-active approach to accomplish the project worth Rs. 1280 crore awarded earlier. He said now the entire rural belts of state will get complete water supply and sanitation facilities. 

          The Minister informed that next aim of the department was to rejuvenate water supply schemes smashed due to the problem of water logging besides enhancing the capacity limit from 40 liter per capita to 70 liter vis-à-vis setting up of treatment system in villages besides sewerage system. He said that through domestic connections 100 percent population would be covered under this mission. The Minister also gave a call to the officers and officials of department to launch a sustained drive to make people aware about the schemes so they could take full advantage from schemes. He also advocate the need to launch a concerted drive to make aware the common masses about the ill-affects of impure water. 

Additional Chief Secretary Mr. Suresh Kumar informed that Punjab had taken a series of step to provide 100 percent water supply for 24X7. He said that Punjab has setup 650 villages in a short span of time.

Prominent amongst those present on the occasion included Mr. Ajoy Kumar Sharma, Chief Engineer, Chief Engineer Mr. A.K. Soni, Director Sanitation Mohammad Ishfaq and Chief Social Development Officer Ms Priya Ojha.

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 PUNJAB LAUNCHES CAMPAIGN TO CHECK EYE SIGHT OF ALL SCHOOL CHILDREN

·  45,000 STUDENTS PROVIDED FREE SPECTACLES

·  LASER EYE SURGERY FACILITY PROVIDED IN ALL DISTRICT HOSPITALS

Chandigarh, June 9: The Punjab Government has launched a novel initiative to examine the eye sight of all school children under a mass campaign and provide spectacle free of cost to the students with a weaker eye sight.

According to Health Minister Mr. Surjit Kumar Jiyani it was noticed that educational performance fo students was getting low due to weaker eye sight and poor parent were unable to bear the cost of spectacle .He took up the cause with Union Helth Minister to get a special plan sanctioned under which all school children irrespective of economic criterion would be provided spectacles free of cost and a data bank of such students would be maintained in central server and their eye sight would be rechecked every 6 months and their lances would be changed accordingly.

Issuing instruction to all Civil Surgeons to monito0r the progress of this novel mission personally, Mr. Jiyani said that more that 45,000 students have already been provided free spectacles during last six months

 Mr. Hussan Lal ,Secretary Health said that, in order strengthen eye care facilities for the general public, about 2 lakh Cataract Surgeries have been performed in Government and private hospitals.

  -MADAN MOHAN MITTAL GIVES APPOINTMENT LETTERS TO 34 CRAFT INSTRUCTORS, TRAINERS

·        EXHORTS THEM TO WORK WITH DEDICATION

·        BATS FOR YOUTH TO BE TECHNICALLY QUALIFIED

Chandigarh, June 9:

The Technical Education and Industrial Training Minister, Punjab, Mr. Madan Mohan Mittal today gave appointment letters to 15 craft instructors, 17 other candidates for various posts of Institute for Training of Trainers, Lalru and 2 Principals (Group-B) here today at the Punjab State Board of Technical Education and Industrial Training.

Disclosing this, a spokesperson of the department said that the Minister exhorted the newly appointed instructors to work with complete dedication and stressed upon the youth the importance of being technically qualified.

 According to the spokesperson, the Minister also informed that Institute for Training of Trainers is being set up at Lalru at a cost of Rs. 10 crore with the help of Government of India. He said that this institute would cater to the 10 states of north India.

 On this occasion, Principal Secretary, Department of Technical Education and Industrial Training, Punjab, Mr. M.P. Singh IAS, Director, Department of Technical Education and Industrial Training, Punjab, Mr. B. Purushartha, IAS and Additional Director, Industrial Training Wing, Punjab , Mrs. Daljit Kaur Sidhu were also present.

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 20 Cadets of MAFPI all set to join NDA and INA

 Selected Cadets to join academies in next month

  CHANDIGARH, June 9 : 

Twenty cadets of Maharaja Ranjit Singh Armed Forces Preparatory Institute have been selected to join the National Defence Academy and Indian Naval Academy for the courses commencing in the first week of July. Two cadets from this institute have already joined these academies in January this year bringing this year’s tally to twenty two which was the number last year as well. With this sterling performance the institute continues to retain its premier position as a feeder institute for the National Defence Academy.

While disclosing this here  today  a spokesman of the MAFPI said that Cadet Armaanjit Singh Dhaliwal had attained the 14th position in the All India Merit list while Cadet Piyush D Jain was at 21st position. According to information over 4 lakh youth from all over the country appeared in the UPSC entrance exams for NDA conducted in September last year. The spokesman said that selected candidates were called for interviews at various Services Selection Boards from January to April this year. Thereafter, the final merit list had about 450 candidates announced on June 3, 2015. The candidates will now be invited to join the National Defence Academy, Khadakwasla and the Indian Naval Academy, Ezhimala in the last week of this month.

It may be recalled that Maharaja Ranjit Singh AFPI was established by the Punjab Government for reversing the declining trend of Punjabi youth joining the armed forces as officers. The first batch of cadets completed its training in 2013. Since then the institute has been successful in sending as many as 51 cadets from its first three batches to join the armed forces. Cadets of the fourth batch are currently preparing for the NDA entrance exam to be held in Sep this year.

The institute offers a two year training course at the Plus 1 and Plus 2 level. Excellent infra structure for training including all possible sports facilities on the lines of NDA has been created.  All training at AFPI was provide free of cost besides bearing all training and administrative expenses.

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PUNJAB ISSUES GUIDELINES FOR EQUITABLE DISTRIBUTION OF DEVELOPMENT FUNDS TO ALL PANCHAYATS

·  PANCHAYATS TOLD TO STRICTLY FOLLOW 13 FINANCE COMMISSION GUIDELINES

·  ALL PANCHAYATS TOLD TO ENSURE QUALITY CONTROL IN DEVELOPMENT WORKS

Chandigarh, June 9:The Punjab Government today issued broad guidelines to all Panchayats to ensure equitable distribution  of development funds besides ensuring strict quality control in development works .

According to an official spokesperson that all panchayats have been told to focus on core services including drinking water, sewerage, solid waste management and street lights at acceptable level of service. The guideline clarified that if panchayats are unable are execute any development work, the same can be allocated to an agency after getting it approved by a resolution by Gram Panchayat.

The spokesperson that 13 Finance Commission has cautioned that funds should not be allocated to sports clubs, Mahila Mandals or such organisations that are not under the purview of Gram Panchayats. The funds would be provided to Gram Panchayats as per the population of that village. Efforts would be made to cover all the villages while allocation funds but if any village fails to get allocation this year, would be allocate funds in next financial year.According to Finacne Commission  guidelines each village should be given a minimum grant of  Rs. 1 lakh and maximum grant of Rs. 5 lakh to ensure maximum coverage of villages. The thickly populated villages should be granted grant of Rs. 5 lakh.

All villages Panchayats have been issued strict instructions to submit their utilization certificates by july 2015 so that funds under 14 Finance Commission could be requisitioned. All Panchayats have been issued directions to maintain record of all funds on specific software of e-Panchayats.

Instructions have been issued to all Deputy Commissioner for strict compliance.

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CHIEF SECRETARY REVIEWS THE PROGRESS OF SWACHH BHARAT MISSION

·        CHIEF SECRETARY CHAIRS HIGH POWERED COMMITTEE ON SWACHH BHARAT MISSION

·        47216 HOUSEHOLD TOILETS TO BE CONSTRUCTED BY MARCH 2016

·        RS 381.18 CRORE ALLOCATED BY GOVERNMENT OF INDIA TO PUNJAB UNDER THIS MISSION

CHANDIGARH, JUNE 9:

Mr. Sarvesh Kaushal, Chief Secretary, Punjab today chaired a meeting of High Powered Committee under Swachh Bharat Mission. This committee has been formed under Swachh Bharat Mission of Ministry of Urban Development, Government of India for management of the Swachh Bharat Mission at State and Urban Local Body’s level and also for finalization and implementation of State Sanitation Strategy for the State and respective City Sanitation plan. During the meeting, Secretary Local Government explained that this scheme of Swachh Bharat Mission (urban) has been divided into six components namely Construction of Household Toilets, Construction of Community Toilets, Construction of Public Toilets, Solid Waste Management, Public Awareness and Capacity Building. It was further informed that total Rs 381.18 crores have already been allocated to the State under this scheme during this mission period till 2nd October 2019 and Rs. 41.40 crores have already been released in last financial year.

Secretary Local Government informed the committee that 1.96 lakhs household toilets shall be constructed in the State for which 11711 applications have been received from various Districts. On this, Chief Secretary instructed the Department to immediately run an effective mass awareness campaign to educate people about this scheme, eligibility conditions and application process of this scheme. He further instructed the Department to complete the field survey and application process under this scheme in next 4 weeks so that this year target of constructing 47216 household toilets can be completed on time.

Further under this scheme, 3251 Community toilet seats and 7673 Public Toilet seats will be constructed. The Department of Local Government was asked to complete a detail survey and identify the locations of these toilets across the State. Department of Local Government was further asked to prepare a roadmap and action plan in next 10 days for the construction of these toilets and also for the maintenance of these toilets. It was discussed that the model followed by Union Territory and Delhi must be studied and an option of outsourcing model such as “Sulabh Shauchalaya may be explored for operations and maintenance of these toilets after the construction”. It was informed by Secretary, Local Government that the State’s initiatives of Solid Waste Management are also being dovetailed under this scheme so that the funds under this scheme can be effectively utilized.

 The prominent amongst those who were present included Mr. N S Kalsi, Additional Chief Secretary, Public Works Department, Mr. C Roul, Principal Secretary School Education, Mr. Vishwajit Khanna, Principal Secretary Housing and Urban Development, Mr. Jaspal Singh, Secretary Expenditure, Mr Ashok Gupta, Secretary Local Government, Mr. J Balamurugan, Joint Managing Director, Punjab Municipal Infrastructure Development Company , Mr. Rohit Kakkar, Deputy Advisor, Ministry of Urban Development, Government of India and other officials from various concerned departments.

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BYE-ELECTION TO 2015 OF SARPANCHES/PANCHES AND ELECTION OF COMPLETE GRAM PANCHAYATS

 PUNJAB DECLARES PAID HOLIDAY ON JUNE 14 IN FACTORIES, SHOPS AND COMMERCIAL ESTABLISHMENTS IN CONCERNED CONSTITUENCIES

CHANDIGARH, JUNE 09:

To enable the workers working in factories and shops & commercial establishments situated in Punjab to exercise their democratic right of bye-election to 2015 of Sarpanches/Panches and election of complete Gram Panchayats the Amritsar, Bathinda, Barnala, Ferozepur, Fatehgarh Sahib, Faridkot, Fazilka, Hoshiarpur, Gurdaspur, Kaputhala, Ludhiana, Moga, Mansa, Sr Muktsar Sahib, Patiala, Saheed Bhagat Singh Nagar, Sangrur, Panthankot, Roop Nagar, Mohali and Tarn Taran districts on 14-6-2015 (Sunday), the Labour Department Punjab has declared that June,14, 2015 (Sunday) would be the weekly paid holiday for all  factories, shops and commercial establishments situated in these constituencies where Sunday is not observed as weekly off within the state in lieu of their normal weekly holiday.

          Disclosing this here today a spokesman of the Labour Department said that  notifications have already been issued in this regard.

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 ROTATIONAL IRRIGATION PROGRAMME FOR KHARIF  SEASON    ANNOUNCED

Chandigarh,June 09:

          The Irrigation Department, Punjab has announced the Rotational Programme for irrigation for the current Kharif Season through Canal water from 10-06-2015 to 17-06-2015. The channels of Sirhind Canal System would run on the priority basis from Sidhwan Branch ,Bathinda Branch, Bist Doab Canal, Abohar Branch and Patiala feeder,  respectively.

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

          The spokesman further said that Abohar Branch off-taking from Sirhind Feeder and distributries  in Group "B" being in the First preference will run to their ident. Balance water supplies available would be utilised in direct distributaries of Group 'A'.

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

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PUNJAB TO CONDUCT DEPARTMENTAL EXAMINATION OF ASSISTANT COMMISSIONERS, IPS OFFICERS AND TEHSILDARS FROM JULY 6

- LAST DATE TO SUBMIT APPLICATION IS JUNE 15

Chandigarh, June 9:

            The Punjab Government would conduct Departmental examination of assistant commissioners, IPS officers and Tehsildars/Revenue officials from July 6 to July 11, 2015.

            Giving details, An official spokesperson said that those officers who intend to appear in the examination should send their applications to the Special Secretary to Government of Punjab, Department of Personnel and Secretary Departmental examination Committee (PCS Branch), Punjab Civil Secretariat, Chandigarh through their departments in given Performa by 15 June, 2015. "No direct application will be entertained under any circumstances" he added.

            He further said that if any candidate does not get his/her roll number by 30 June, 2015 should contact the PCS branch via email pcsbranch@gmail.com or on telephone 0172-2740611 (PBX 4648). He said that centre of examination would be Mahatma Gandhi State Institute of Public Administration, Punjab, Sector 26, Chandigarh.

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DISTRICT PUBLIC RELATIONS OFFICE LUDHIANA

-        SEA OF HUMANITY EMERGES TO HAVE DARSHAN OF DHARMIK DARSHAN YATRA

-        KEEN ENTHUSIASM IN YOUNGSTERS OVER DHARMIK DARSHAN YATRA

-        SANGAT APPRECIATES THE EFFORTS OF GOVERNMENT

-        YATRA’S NEXT HALT AT GURUDWARA SRI SUKH SAGAR SAHIB KHANNA

Ludhiana/Dehlon/Sahnewal: June 7

         The Dharmik Darshan Yatra, carrying relics of Guru Sahiban, today saw a sea of humanity emerging to pay obeisance on yatra’s third day in Ludhiana city when the yatra left from Gurudwara Sri Alamgir Sahib for its next destination.

         The yatra passed through the areas of Dehlon, Ghawaddi Chowk, Sahnewal, Doraha, Bija and Khanna. The yatra will halt at Gurudwara Sri Sukh Sagar Sahib Khanna tonight.

         Today morning thousands of devotees paid obeisance at Gurudwara Sri Alamgir Sahib. The yatra set off for today after ardas. MLA Mr Darshan Singh Shivalik, DC Mr Rajat Aggarwal and other dignitaries were also present. Devotees had put up langar and cold water chhabeel at different places. Earlier last night, on its arrival at Gurudwara Sri Alamgir Sahib, the yatra was given a spectacular welcome.

         The yatrahas strike a chord with the young generation who are keen to know about the brave history of Sikhs. Being held with the efforts of CM Mr Parkash Singh Badal and the deputy CM Mr Sukhbir Badal, the yatra has cemented bonds of youngsters with the Gurus.

         On its arrival in Dehlon, under MLA Mr Darshan Singh Shivalik and at Sahnewal under the irrigation minister Mr Sharanjit Singh Dhillon, the yatra was given spectacular welcome.

         Passing from different villages and cities the yatra reached Gurudwara Sri Sukh Sagar Sahib, where it will halt at night.

         The yatra has started from Patiala on May 6and will culminate at Anandpur Sahib on June 18.

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DIGITAL PUNJAB PUTS 13040 PANCHAYTS ON WEB

PUNJAB BECOMES Ist STATE TO COMPUTERIZE ALL PANCHAYATS

Chandigarh June 7:

             The Punjab today took a major step by putting all 13040 village Panchayts on web, becoming the Ist State of the Country with information of all villages on web.

Punjab Rural Development and Panchayats Minister Mr. Sikander Singh Maluka said that the functioning of Gram Panchayats in Punjab has been strengthened through computerization under e-panchayats scheme and PRIA- soft, a unique software of National e-gram panchayats programme, he said that under an intensive programme, Training was provided to all panchayat Secretaries for the operational working of this software.

             He said that an ambitious scheme to connect all Gram Panchayats (GPs) with national e- governance has launched successfully in all districts. He said that the Punjab Government was committed to adopt ePRIs scheme on priority basis with a view to put this plan into practice.  Punjab has become an e-panchayat first state to put data of all its 13040 village panchayats on its official website. He said that websites of all Zila Parishads and Block Samitis has completed and started work on that of the Panchayat department website www.pbrdp.gov.in.

The Minister said that village panchayat websites has details of famous personalities, popular and historical places while the panchayat department website had contact numbers, educational qualifications of its members and related information.

The Minister said that other information is available on a click include elected members of Rural and Urban Local bodies, latest data of Gram Panchayats and mapped villages, distance of village from main cities and main roads, overall information about village, schools, colleges, hospitals, community centres and state-sponsored schemes going on in the villages.

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ANIL JOSHI APPEALS TO CHIEF MINISTER

·          SEEKS EXTENSION IN TIME LIMIT FOR CONVEYANCE DEED REGISTRATION ON ALLOTMENT PRICE

CHANDIGARH, JUNE 5

The Local Government Minister of Punjab Mr. Anil Joshi today appealed the Chief Minister of Punjab Mr. Parkash Singh Badal to issue the orders to extend the time limit for getting the conveyance deed registration on allotment price for at least 2 months more. It may be mentioned here that the Punjab government has announced a golden opportunity to all those allottees of immoveable properties (plots/houses etc) by the government or a public sector undertaking or local bodies to get their first conveyance deeds registered at rates mentioned in their allotment letters till June 7, 2015, which resulted in benefit to large no of allottees to the tune of crore.

In a letter to the Chief Minister , Mr. Joshi hailed the decision and said that  earlier allottees were required to get conveyance deed executed on collector rate that was linked to present market rate of property and this decision of Punjab government to register deeds on allotment rate have facilitated a large number of allottees. He said that the state was earning handsome revenue due to this decision as well as the general public feels satisfied with the pro-active approach of the Punjab Government towards this genuine long pending demand.

Mr. Joshi said that as there was not a sufficient time available for the public to avail benefit under this decision due to the delay in issuance of notification in this regard. The Minister said this issue of extending at least two months should be considered sympathetically in larger public interest.

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 TEHSIL AND SUB TEHSILS TO REMAIN OPEN ON JUNE 6

 Chandigarh, June 5:

 To provide much needed respite to the citizen to get the conveyance deed of property/plot allotted by the Government/Semi Government institutions registered, Tehsils and Sub Tehsils of the state would remain open on June 6, 2015.

Disclosing this here today an official spokesperson said that the Punjab Government had provided two months for getting the property/plot allotted by the Government/Semi Government institutions registered at allotment rates. He said that this time limit is ended on June 7. He said that in order to facilitate the citizen of the state to get such properties registered administrative decision has been taken to open Tehsils and Sub Tehsils on June 6.

The spokesman said that as per the sanction23 of the Registration Act 1908 now June 6, Saturday would be deemed to be working day for the purpose of registry.

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Punjab SC Commission summons Secretary, Director Local Government

·         Takes serious note of irresponsive behaviour shown by Department

Chandigarh, June 5: 

The Punjab State Commission for Scheduled Castes today summoned Secretary and Director Local Bodies Department both with a condition of their personal appearance before the Commission for June 23.

                Disclosing this here today an official spokesman said that the commission had received a complaint from in 2009 the Legal Assistant of Municipal Corporation Ludhiana Mr. Harish Bhagat had raised the issue of partial treatment meted out to the scheduled castes in the matter of promotion as legal assistant. He said that the commission had taken a serious note of the complaint and sought a report from local government department but the department paid any heed to it. After this, inspite of repeated reminders sent by the commission, neither did department submit any replied nor did any of it’s officers appeared before the commission. Considering the graveness of the issue, the commission has directed Secretary and Director of the department to appear before it on 23rd June along with report and sworn statements.   

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PUNJAB DECREASES E-STAMPING CERTIFICATES LIMIT FROM RS. 50,000/- TO RS. 20,000/- FROM JUNE 8

Chandigarh, June 4: In a pro-people move, the Punjab government has decreased the limit of issuance of e-stamp certificates for registration of properties from present limit of Rs. 50,000/-to Rs. 20,000/-. This decision will authorize the Stock holding Corporation of India (SHCIL) to issue  e-stamp certificates for amount exceeding Rs. 19,999/- and it would come in to force with effect from June 8.

According to an official spokesman, a notification in this regard has been issued today. With implementation of this decision, while registering any property, if stamp duty amount exceeds Rs. 20,000/-, then the buyers have to get e-stamp certificates from banks and this decision will be implemented throughout the state.

It may be  mentioned here that this unique e stamping project was conceived and custom built for the requirements of Punjab under the guidance of Revenue Minister Bikram Singh Majithia to end people harassment and also make revenue transactions safe and secure.

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PUNJAB NOMINATES FIVE NON-OFFICIAL MEMBERS OF ROOP NAGAR DISTRICT/SUB DIVISION  GRIEVANCES REDRESSAL COMMITTEE FROM AAM ADMI PARTY (AAP)

Chandigarh, June 4:

Punjab Government has nominated  five non-official members of Redressal Grievances Committee of  Roop Nagar District/Sub Division from Aam Admi Party (AAP). A notification has already been issued in this regard.

Disclosing this here today a spokesman of the Redressal of Grievances Department said amongst the nominated non official members were Sh. Manjit Singh  for Redressal Grievances Committee of Roop Nagar; Sh. Harbans Singh Gill for Sub Division Redressal Grievances Committee, Roop Nagar; Smt. Davinder Kaur Daburr for Sub Division Redressal Grievances Committee,  Sri Anandpur Sahib, Sh. Inderjit Singh for Sub Division Redressal Grievances Committee, Chamkaur Sahib and Sh Navdeep Singh Hira for Sub Division redressal Grievances Committee Nangal.

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Maluka directs DCs to decide panchayats election petitions under fixed time frame

Chandigarh June 4: Punjab Panchayats Minister Mr. Sikander Singh Maluka today issued directions to all Deputy Commissioners to resolve all Panchayats election related petitions lying pending in their respective offices within the stipulated time frame set under Punjab State Election Commission Act.

        Issuing directions in this regard Mr. Maluka said it has come to the notice of Department that several petitions pertaining to Panchayat elections were pending in the different courts of Deputy Commissioners, which should be adjudicated within the period of six months. He also asked for quick and expeditious adjudication and disposal of such petitions.

The Minister informed that as per the provisions of Punjab State Election Commission Act, the time frame of six months had been sanctioned for adjudication of such a petition.

Mr. Maluka also directed all Deputy Commissioners to submit monthly status report by 10th of every month regarding the disposal and pendency of the election petitions in the office of Financial Commissioner Rural Development and Panchayats.

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PUNJAB  DISPOSES OF RECORD 27180 CASES UNDER RTI ACT

 ·  FIRST STATE TO HAVE FULL BENCH BY FILLING POSTS OF ALL INFO COMMISSIONERS

·  SIC TO SOON LAUNCH ITS MODIFIED WEBSITE

 Chandigarh, June 4: The Punjab State Information Commission has set a record by resolving more than 27000 cases till May, 31 2015 from 1 January 2011 besides becoming first state in the country, where all the posts of Information Commissioners have been filled to give fillip to Right to Information Act in the state.

                       This was disclosed during the 26th and maiden meeting of full commission presided over by Chief Information Commissioner Dr. S.S. Channy, IAS (Retd). While reviewing the status of cases pending in RTI courts and the cases in process at district level, Mr. Channy asked the State Commissioners to ensure the smooth flow of information sought under RTI in time to the applicant. . Dr. Channy said that as on January 1, 2015 there were 1955 cases were pending out of total received 4389 while 2434 cases had been disposed off by the different benches of Commission.  

 Dr. Channy also informed that it was a matter of great pride for Punjab that state had filled all the posts of State Information Commissioners to ensure the proper execution of RTI act. He said that the existing website of Commission was under modification process and a sub-committee for this purpose has been formed. He said that the changes would be incorporated in modified website soon for the facilitation of masses.

             The Chief Information Commissioner also informed that the office of State Information Commission would soon shift to the Punjab Red Cross Society building in Sector-16. He also that keeping in view the past practice and the rules of the Commission, it was decided that as the disposed of files for the year 2011 have become due for destruction, necessary measures be taken under the rules to get this record destroyed.

             Earlier the full Commission has also extended warm welcome to newly appointed State Commissioners Mr. Yashvir Mahajan and Mr. Nidharak Singh Brar.

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Punjab launches concerted drive against cruelty to Animals

·  Ranike directs authorities for proper implementation of Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act

·  Constitutes committee to conduct surprise raids during transportation of mulching cattle

 Chandigarh, June 3: The Punjab Government has initiated a concerted drive to prevent milching-cattle and other livestock from cruelty especially during their transportation besides effectively executing Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act-1960.

             Taking stock of progress in this regard in maiden meeting of Animal Welfare Board, Punjab Animal Husbandry Minister Mr. Gulzar Singh Ranike issued directions to the authorities concerned to expedite the drive against cruelty to animals. He said that act should be implemented in true spirit to prevent cruelty especially while transportation of milch-cattle and other livestock. The Minister also directed Additional Chief Secretary Mr. Mandeep Singh Sandhu to form a committee for this purpose and on the directions of panel surprise raids should be conducted to check the lapses during transportation of livestock. He said the committee would also ensure that the norms regarding number of animals to be carried in a single truck should not be violated.

            The Minister also advocated the need to launch a sensitisation and awareness drive to prevent livestock from cruelty. He said that special programs, seminars, conferences should be held under district level societies formed for Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. He also asked the authorities concerned to distribute pamphlets, organise seminars, lecturer/training to sensitise the common masses to bring attitudnal change for stray animals.

            It was also informed in the meeting that the establishment of cattle pond to curb the menace of stray animals were in progress. It was also informed 76 cases registered in 2014 under Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act-1960 out of which 49 were under investigation while 153 offenders were arrested whereas 5 were convicted. The hearing in 21 cases was pending.

            Prominent amongst those present in the meeting included Additional Chief Secretary Mr. Mandeep Singh Sandhu, Director Animal Husbandry Mr. H.S. Sandha, Chief Wildlife Warden Mr. Dharminder Singh, Member Animal Welfare Board of India Dr. Sandeep K. Jain and senior officers of animal husbandry department.  

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SPEAKER LOK SABHA NOMINATES ATWAL AS MEMBER OF ALL INDIA STANDING COMMITTEE

CHANDIGARH, JUNE 03:

          Senior Parliamentarian and the Senior most Presiding Officer of India, Dr. Charnjit Singh Atwal, Speaker Punjab Legislative Assembly has been nominated as a member of the Standing Committee of the All India Presiding Officer's Conference by the  Speaker, Lok Sabha and Chairperson of the All India Presiding Officer's Conference.

          The Nomination has come as a great honor and privilege not only for the people of Punjab but for the whole of Legislative Fraternity of India.  Due to the political experience, administrative acumen, Intellectual outlook, active participation he has been nominated for this post.  He has been actively participating in all the conferences and meetings of the All India Presiding Officers Conference.

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 BADAL ASKS NDA TO DO JUSTICE WITH STATE BY EXTENDING SPECIAL FINANCIAL PACKAGE

TERMS IT AS RIGHT OF THE STATE AND NOT ANY CONCESSION

PUNJAB HAS SUFFERED ENORMOUSLY DUE TO APATHY OF THE SUCCESSIVE CONGRESS GOVERNMENTS AT CENTRE

HAILS NDA FOR GIVING SEVERAL KEY PROJECTS TO THE STATE

SINS OF CONGRESS COULD NOT BE WASHED OVERNIGHT

BATS FOR CROP INSURANCE SCHEME FOR THE FARMERS

REITERATES THAT BAJWA MUST RENAME HIS YATRA AS ‘PASCHAATAP YATRA’

PAYS HOMAGE TO BABA PREM SINGH MURAALEWALE

 Begowal (Kapurthala), June 3-

          Terming that Punjab was rightfully demanding economic package from the centre, the Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today said that it was not any concession but the NDA must do justice with the state by extending financial assistance to it.

          Interacting with the media persons on the sidelines of the death anniversary of Sant Baba Prem Singh Muraale wale here today, the Chief Minister said that Punjab, which was a once a prosperous state in the country, had suffered a lot due to the discriminatory attitude of the successive congress governments at the centre. He said that Punjab fought the nation’s war against militancy but then also it had to bear the expenditure of the central security forces. Likewise, Mr. Badal said that the state’s economy got a fatal blow when the neighboring states were granted incentives by the Congress government, which led to mass exodus of industry from the state.

          The Chief Minister said that all these factors led to economic constraint in the state due to which the development of the state suffered a lot. He categorically said that it was the right of the state to get financial assistance from the centre in recognition of its glorious history of serving the country. “We do not seek any concession from the NDA government but we hope that it will deliver justice to us by giving economic assistance to us” added Mr. Badal. 

The Chief Minister said that despite of all odds the NDA government has done exemplary work in its short span of one year for ensuring the progress of country and prosperity of its people. He said that though overnight changes could not be expected from any government but then also the Union government had taken path breaking initiatives for restoring the pristine glory of the country. Mr. Badal said that under dynamic and visionary leadership of Prime Minister Mr. Narendra Modi, the NDA government has launched major pro-poor schemes which were aimed at ensuring the welfare of common man.

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 besides including holy city Amritsar in Heritage City Development and Augmentation Yojna (HRIDAY).

On another query, the Chief Minister said that farmers of the state had been immensely benefitted from NDA government as accepting the demand of the state government the Government of India (GoI) has now revised the relief norms to the distressed farmers for the crop damage besides enhancing the compensation for crop damage to the farmers due to natural disaster from Rs 5500 to Rs 8000 per acre. However, Mr. Badal said that it was not enough as the compensation of the crop loss must be rationalized and brought at par with the amount of loss. “Above all introduction of crop insurance scheme is the need of the hour to save farmers from the current agrarian crisis” he added.

Making a scathing attack on state Congress Chief Mr. Partap Singh Bajwa for launching Jan Sampark Yatra, the Chief Minister reiterated that the Congress President must rename this yatra as ‘Paschaatap Yatra’ for the sins committed by his party against the state. He said that Punjab and Punjabis had always been the victim of the stepmotherly treatment of the successive congress governments adding that Mr. Bajwa must remember that Punjab had suffered a lot due to the apathy of Congress party and the people of state would never forgive it.

Later on the Chief Minister, while addressing a mammoth gathering, paid rich tributes to Baba Prem Singh Ji Muraalewale and recalled the marvelous services rendered by him in the religious, educational and social field. Mr. Badal said that the state government has taken unprecedented steps for perpetuating the rich legacy of the state by constructing several world class iconic memorials across the state. He also listed the path breaking initiatives taken by the state government for providing basic civic amenities in urban and rural areas of the state. 

The Chief Minister also said that the state government has taken a number of initiatives for development of Education in the state. He said that meritorious schools started by state government were proving a boon for poor but bright students by offering them quality education free of cost. Likewise, he said that the state government was giving a push to skill training by opening skill centers across the state in a big way

          The Chief Minister was accompanied by MLAs Bibi Jagir Kaur and Mr. Baljeet Singh Jalaal Usma, Union Minister Mr. Vijay Sampla, former MLA and Chairman of District Planning Committee Mr. Sarabjeet Singh Makkar, his Special Principal Secretary Mr. Ajoy Kumar Sharma and Deputy Commissioner Mr. KK Yadav. 

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PUNJAB POLICE LAUNCHES A CONCERTED DRIVE TO ERADICATE THE REMNANTS OF DRUGS

·       SSPs/CPs TO ENSURE COMPLETE CRACKDOWN AND NON-AVAILABILITY OF DRUGS

·       1243 PERSONS ARRESTED, 1181 FIRs REGISTERED

·       FOCUSING ON INTELLIGENCE LED OPERATIONS FOR INTERCEPTING NARCOTIC ASSIGNMENTS

Chandigarh, June 3: 

The Punjab Police has launched a second phase of its concerted drive against drugs since May 23, 2015 to eradicate the remnants of drugs in the state under the personal supervision of the district SSPs/CPs. Since June 1, 2015 the SSPs/CPs are monitoring the availability of drugs in their respective jurisdictions so as to ensure a complete crackdown and non-availability of drugs.

Disclosing this here today a spokesman of Punjab Police informed that in the present drive against drugs 1243 persons have been arrested in 1181 FIRs (between May 23-31, 2015). 83634 pills/capsules, 2305 Kg poppy husk, 36 Kg opium and varying quantities of remnant hard drugs (10.47 Kg heroin, 8 Kg cocaine and 32.5 Kg smack) including heroin/smack/opium have been seized.

The spokesman said that Punjab Police has adopted a two-pronged strategy to combat drug trafficking in the state after a major anti-drug drive launched since mid-2014 had broken the drug retail networks in the state. The strategy focusing on (i) complete eradication of remnants of peddling in close-knit circles (of old stock/drugs smuggled from outside state), and (ii) intercepting trans-border transit consignments has been put on ground with the objective of ensuring no availability of drugs in the state. Also, Punjab Police is focusing on trans-border transit of drugs outside the state so as to intercept narcotic consignments in the hinterland after they cross the international border and break international drug trafficking networks.

The spokesman revealed that no reports about new consumers or peddlers indulging in drug trade have come to notice in the last one year. Availability of drugs has been controlled. However, there were some reports of hard-core drug peddlers disposing off small quantities of drugs in close-knit circles of old consumers by using old stocks or drugs smuggled from outside the state. Keeping in view these reports, this new drive has been launched.

The spokesman said that village touring by field police officers has been started under the supervision of the Zonal IGPs to reach out to the public at the grass root levels so as to consult and involve them about exploring alternative employment avenues for former peddlers. Village Panchayats have been involved in this exercise which is aimed at ensuring that the former drug peddlers do not relapse into crime again.

The spokesman pointed out that Punjab Police was focusing on intelligence-led operations for intercepting narcotic consignments being sent from across the international border to outside the state which transit through Punjab in 2-5 hours. The Counter Intelligence Wing of the Punjab Police has recently busted an international drug trafficking network transiting heroin from Pakistan through Punjab to UP and arrested four persons, including two Pakistan nationals. 2.5 kg heroin, Rs.65 lakhs Indian currency, one .32 bore German made revolver, one 315 bore rifle, one Pak-made mobile handset with Pak SIM Card, Swift Car No. PB-10-BS-4298 and Bullet Motor Cycle No.PB-02-BC-4252 have been seized. A case FIR No.9, dated 01.06.2015 u/s 21/22/29/61/85 NDPS Act, 25 Arms Act, 3/34/20 IP Act has been registered in P.S. State Special Operations Cell, Amritsar.

The spokesman added that investigations has revealed that the main kingpin on the Indian side was Sukhdev Singh r/o Village Ghania Ke Bangar, district Gurdaspur (Police Distt. Batala). He is an old smuggler and an associate of smuggler Karam Singh @ Karma r/o Village Havelian, district Amritsar presently lodged in Ferozepur Jail. Both of them were arrested together in 1990 in a gold smuggling case. Sukhdev Singh had shifted to UP and had recently come back to Punjab and re-established contact with Karma as he had come into contact with one Pargat Singh r/o Village Dayalpur, district Tarn Taran, now based in district Bahraich of UP on the Indo-Nepal border. Pargat Singh told Sukhdev Singh that he is in contact with a heroin distribution network in UP and can dispose off heroin and asked Sukhdev Singh to arrange heroin consignments. Sukhdev Singh contacted his old associate Karam Singh @ Karma who provided him with a Pak SIM Card and also introduced him to Pak smuggler Arshad @ Lambardar r/o Village Janoya, district Shekhopura. Sukhdev Singh roped in one Sarmukh Singh r/o Village Fattu Pilla, district Amritsar and one Avtar Singh r/o Village Bagrian, district Amritsar (now at Goindwal Sahib, district Tarn Taran) to join him and after exchange of calls and messages with Arshad an RV was fixed in the Ajnala sector in the area of Shahpur forward post for receiving of narcotic consignment from couriers to be sent by Arshad.

The spokesman said that investigations have further revealed that two Pak nationals Razif Mohd. r/o Village Sanipur, district Shekhopura and Mohd. Akib Khan r/o Village Derianwale, district Narowal crossed the international border along with narcotic consignment of 19.5 kg heroin and one revolver in the area of Shahpur forward post in the Ajnala sector in the intervening night of 20/21 May, 2015 and were received by Sukhdev Singh, Avtar Singh and Sarmukh Singh about 3 km inside the Indian territory. The border is riverine with the fencing inside the Indian Territory and the river Ravi forms the natural boundary between the two countries making it easier to cross. Generally Pak couriers either throw the consignments over the fence/conceal it in the fields across the fencing but in the present instance, the two Pak couriers crossed into India and accompanied Sukhdev Singh and his associate to Village Ghania Ke Bangar and stayed there. The narcotic consignment was distributed between Sukhdev Singh (2.5 Kg), Avtar Singh (6 Kg), Sarmukh Singh (5 Kg), Pargat Singh (4 Kg and another 4 Kg given by Sarmukh Singh out of his 5 Kg) and Gurbax Singh r/o Village Havelian- brother of Karam Singh @ Karma (2 Kg). 2.5 Kg heroin has been seized from Sukhdev Singh while police parties have been dispatched to UP and other places to effect the arrest of Avtar Singh, Pargat Singh, Gurbax Singh and others figuring in the investigation. A sum of Rs.65 lakhs has been seized from the Swift Car No.PB-10-BS-4298 at the time of the arrest of Sukhdev Singh and Sarmukh Singh which is drug money from the sale of narcotic drugs.

The spokesman disclosed that co-ordination and liaison has been maintained with the BSF authorities who, along with district police have been associated with the examination of the arrested smugglers at the Joint Interrogation Centre (JIC), Amritsar. After examination of the arrested smugglers, the crossing point of the international border (IB) in the area of Shahpur forward post in Ajnala sector has been jointly inspected by Sh. N.K.Mishra, DIG/BSF/Gurdaspur sector, Sh. R.S.Kataria, DIG/G/BSF at Jalandhar, Sh. Jasdeep Singh, SSP/Amritsar Rural and Sh. Ashwani Kumar, AIG/CI/Amritsar in order to have a first-hand assessment and to take appropriate remedial measures for plugging the loopholes. Further investigations are ongoing, the spokesman added.                       

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 42 villages of Market Committees of Fazilka and Abohar transferred to Market Committee Arniwala

Chandigarh June 3:

The Punjab Government has `issued the notification under Punjab Agriculture Produce Mandi Act, 1961, under which 42 villages falling in the jurisdiction of Market Committee Fazilka and Abohar have been transferred to Market Committee Arniwala.

            Disclosing this here today an official spokesperson of the Punjab Government said that the 36 villages including Arniwal, Dabwala Kalan, Ghatian wali Jattan, Ghatianwali Bodla, Mahuana Bodla, Islam Wala, Tahliwala Jattan, Kandwala Hajrkhan, Jhotianwali, Jandwala Bhimeshah, Mullian wali, Dimpanwali, Pannawala, Pakan, Mandi Roranwali, Halim wala, Sahpura, Nukerian, Singhpura, Kamalwala, Dhani Buta Singh, Allaianna, Sahiwala, Dhani Visakha Singh, Jhuggie Kehar singh, Chahlawali, Sajrana, Chakk kheuwali, Chakk Dabbawala, Samman Khanka, Chakk Bannwala, Jorki Andhewali, Hojkahas, Ckakk Pakhi, Tahli wala Bodla and Chimnewala belonging to Market Committee Fazilka have been transferred to Market Committee of Arniwal, whereas seven village Burj Hanumangarh, Momukhera, Momukhera Khatwan, Kuharia wali, Muradwala Dal Singh and Ghuriana belonging to Market Committee Abohar have also been transferred to Market Committee Arniwala.

A decision was taken to facilitate farmers to sell that agri produce in the yards/ mandis of market committee Panniwala.

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 100 Villages of Punjab all set for total facelift under PMAGYS

Chandigarh June 3:

 Over 100 villages of Punjab are all set to become rural model village with Punjab Government selecting them for total infrastructure upgradation under Prime Minister Adarsh Gram Yojna.

Disclosing this here Punjab Rural Development and Panchayat Minister Mr. Sikander Singh Maluka said that 50 villages of the district Hoshiarpur and 50 villages of district Sri Mukatsar Sahib have been selected under the Prime Minister Adarsh Gram Yojna Scheme. A grant of Rs. 20 lac will be released in the year 2015-16 to each village where more than 50% population belongs to Scheduled Castes. Mr. Maluka said that for the purpose, a grant of Rs. 35 crore have already been released of Rs. 17.50 crore as account of central government and an equal amount of Rs. 17.50 crore by the state government. The Deputy Commissioners of the concerned have been directed to ensure proper utilization of the funds as per the development and welfare scheme and to report the progress from time to time.

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SC COMMISSION HELPS 552 STUDENTS TO GET THEIR FEE REFUNDED

CHANDIGARH, JUNE 3:

Prompt and timely intervention of the SC commission has helped 552 SC students in getting their fee refunded, which has been obtained by the several educational institutions flouting norms.

Disclosing this here today Mr. Rajesh Bagha, Chairman, Punjab State Scheduled Casts Commission said that taking a suo motto notice of reports, the commission had sought a detailed report from the Principal of GKS, Government College, Tanda Urmur regarding the non-implementation of the Post Matric Scholarship Scheme. He said that the in its report the Principal has deposed that they have now refunded the admission fee of 552 students and assured that the fee of the remaining 5 per cent students would also be refunded soon.

Mr. Bagha said that the commission has summoned Principal of GKS, Government College, Tanda Urmur on the next date to present personally and to submit the  submit the affidavit with regard to the implementation of Post Matric Scholarship Scheme for the session 2014-15.

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PUNJAB GOVERNMENT TO HAVE STRATEGIC ALLIANCE WITH ISB MOHALI FOR EFFECTIVE IMPLEMENTATION OF CITIZEN-CENTRIC POLICIES AND PROGRAMS

·        BADAL HOLD PARLEYS WITH TOP BRASS OF ISB FOR HELPING STATE TO ENSURE  OVERALL DEVELOPMENT AND WELFARE OF STATE AND ITS PEOPLE

Mohali, June 02

          The Punjab Government would soon collaborate with Indian School of Business (ISB) to have strategic alliance for effective implementation of citizen-centric policies and programs in the core sector of health, education, agriculture besides promoting skill development programs.

This decision was taken by the Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal during a meeting with the faculty members of ISB and the senior officers of the Punjab Government here at ISB Campus this evening.

Taking part in the deliberations, Mr. Badal asked the Dean ISB Dr. Ajit Rangnekar to suggest a frame work for collaboration in various fields of mutual interest aimed at improving the quality of life of the people in general and especially the ‘poorest of poor’, which was perhaps the most neglected segment of country’s populace and warranted keen attention of institutes of repute like ISB to address their day-to-day issues. Mr. Badal sought ISB’s support and cooperation in formulating a viable crop insurance scheme for the farmers of the state. He also urged its faculty to give suggestions for implementation of agriculture diversification to improve the economic lot of the farmers who were facing an acute agrarian crisis due to declining profit of margins in wake of exorbitant cost of agriculture inputs. “Above all the vagaries of nature have made the life of peasantry from bad to worst and their agony could only be redeemed with your active support and assistance and thus ISB’s advisory role in the current scenario is the need of the hour” said Mr. Badal.

          Seeking guidance for the promotion of skill development programs, Mr. Badal requested the Dean to chalk out short and mid-term skill training programs for the unemployed youth as per the local needs of the Industry. He also emphasized the need to initiate skill development program for school students studying in class 9 onwards. Likewise, he also impressed upon management of ISB to evolve special training modules for the IAS and PCS officers to enhance their capacity building besides helping them to imbibe the qualities of leadership, develop knack for program implementation and formulation of strategies. Mr. Badal deputed senior IAS officer Mr. Anirudh Tiwari as nodal officer to co-ordinate with ISB on behalf of Punjab Government to carry forward the programs aimed at ensuring overall development and welfare of the community at the local and state level.

Assuring of fulsome support and cooperation on behalf of ISB, the Dean said that the country’s leading management institute was ready to help the state to achieve new benchmarks in the implementation of public policies and development oriented programs in the right earnest.

Earlier, the Deputy Dean of ISB Mr. Pardeep Singh briefly outlined the frame work and scope for collaboration in the fields of public policy, health care management, global manufacturing and Infrastructure management.  

The Chief Minister was accompanied by Additional Chief Secretary (Development) Mr. Suresh Kumar, his Principal Secretary Mr. SK Sandhu, Principal Secretary Industries & Commerce Mr. Anirudh Tiwari, Special Principal Secretaries to CM Mr. KJS Cheema and Dr. SK Raju, Secretary Health, Medical Education & Research Mr. Husan Lal, Secretary Science & Technology Mr. KAP Sinha, Secretary Technical Education Mr. Rakesh Verma and Deputy Commissioner Mr. TPS Sidhu

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CM ASKS EDUCATION DEPARTMENT TO PREPARE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN FOR UPGRADATION OF INFRA STRUCTURE IN GOVERNMENT GIRL SCHOOLS

MOVE AIMED AT IMPARTING QUALITY EDUCATION TO GIRL STUDENTS ESPECIALLY FROM RURAL AREAS

HOPES THAT UPGRADATION WOULD INSPIRE THE GIRL STUDENTS TO OPT FOR SCIENCE STREAM

BATS FOR INTRODUCING VOCATIONAL EDUCATION FOR THE STUDENTS FROM 9TH TO 12TH CLASS

Chandigarh, June 2-

          In a bid to impart quality education to the girl students especially from the rural areas of the state, the Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today asked the state Education Department to prepare a ‘comprehensive plan’ for strengthening and upgrading the infra structure in the government girl schools within a fortnight.

          A decision to this effect was taken by the Chief Minister, while presiding over a high level meeting with the officers of the Education department at his residence this morning.

          The Chief Minister emphasized that the parent of every girl child wants that their ward should get best quality education for which the need of the hour was to upgrade the government schools in the state. He said that the spectacular performance of girls in results of the matric and 10 plus two was a testimony to the fact that they were excelling in the field of education. Mr. Badal said that if the girl students from rural areas were encouraged for taking science subjects in the government schools, by updating the school infra structure, then the results would be far better.

          The Chief Minister said that the work of upgrading the schools must be done in a phased manner and in the first phase 168 schools of the secondary level must be upgraded. He said that these schools must be equipped with proper rooms, ultra modern laboratories, furniture besides the toilet facilities for the girls. Mr. Badal hoped that with the upgradation of these schools the girl students would be encouraged to take science subjects.

          Reviewing the progress of government schools, the Chief Minister asked the officers/ officials stationed at headquarter to personally monitor the working of the schools at least for once in a week. He said that it would not only help in improving the standard of the schools but would also help the supervising authorities to acquaint themselves about the problems of the schools. Mr. Badal also underscored the need for introducing vocational education for the students from 9th to 12th class so as to get better skilled manpower in the state.

          Taking part in deliberations, Education Minister Dr. Daljeet Singh Cheema informed the Chief Minister that the initiatives taken by the state government to open six meritorious schools for poor but bright students of the state coupled with Dr. Hargobind Khurana post matric scholarship scheme has yielded positive results. He said that encouraged by these initiatives 8615 students have scored 80% or more marks in matric during the current year as compared to 4700 students during the last year.

          Prominent amongst other present in the meeting included Secretary Rural Development Mr. A Venuprasad, Secretary Expenditure Mr. Jaspal Singh, Secretary Welfare Mrs. Seema Jain, Managing Director PIDB Mr. Anurag Aggarwal and Chairperson Punjab State Education Board Mrs. Tajinder Kaur.      

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Punjab Vidhan Sabha

Chandigarh, June 2:

                    Punjab Vidhan Sabha Speaker Dr. Charanjit Singh Atwal, during his visit at Hyderabad met the Hon'ble Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh Mr. N. Chandrababu Naidu alongwith the deputation of All India Bhagwan Valmiki Foundation. On this occasion General Secretary of the Foundation Shri N.R. Narain was also with Dr. Atwal.  During the meeting Dr. Atwal expressed his gratefulness to Mr. Naidu for including a proposal in Telugu Desam Party Election Manifesto for recommending to the Government to include the Valmiki Community in Scheduled Tribes. Recently Mr. K. Sreenivasulu M.L.A also raised the same issue in the concluded session of Andhra Pradesh Assembly and happy to note that by and large Valmiki Community had been supporting the Telugu Desam Party right from its inception.

                        Dr. Atwal on behalf of Valmiki Community was thankful for choosing Mr. Kalava Sreenivasulu as Government Chief Whip.  He requested the Hon'ble Chief Minister Mr. Naidu to kindly recommend to the Government of India for removal of area restrictions and treating community as Scheduled Tribes throughout state of Andhra Pradesh and it would be a great homage to Baba Saheb Dr. Bhim Rao Amedkar on the occasion of his 125th Birth Anniversary.

                        A function was organized by Sri Hari Hara Kshetram, Sri Siva Sai Charitable Trust and Valimiki (BOYA) Joint Action Committee of Andhra Pradesh at Boyapalem, Prathipadu Mandal, Guntur,District Andhra Pradesh . On this occasion Dr. Atwal spoke about the great contribution made by Dr. Bhim Rao Ambedkar to uplift the weaker section of the society. He stressed upon the need to get education and for the improvement of education system. Dr. Ambedkar made such provisions in the constitution of India through which a common man had the opportunity for equal rights. Throughout of his life he struggle against the evil of untochability. Dr. Atwal while addressing a big gathering stressed upon the need to make improvement in primary education system, to provide right education, equal opportunities and uniform syllabus. Without a solid base of education no nation could progress Dr Atwal added. Shri Ramule, MP Karnataka, K. Sreenivasulu M.L.A, Sh. Jagdishwar Coordinator of Joint Action Committee and N.R. Narain General Secretary Valmiki Foundation New Delhi shared their views.

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 NIIFT STUDENTS MAKE FORAY IN GLOBAL FASHION INDUSTRY IN ‘ANUKAMA-2015’

·        FLOOR AMBASSADOR OF MOROCCO BY SHOWCASING   THEIR CREATIVE GENIUS

 ·          SUPERMODELS DAZZLE IN OUTFITS DESIGNED BY STUDENTS

·          MADAN MOHAN MITTAL GIVES AWAY THE PRIZES

·          AMBASSADOR OF MOROCCO ATTENDS AS GUEST OF HONOUR

Chandigarh, June 2:

The creative genius of the students of Northern India Institute of Fashion Technology (NIIFT), Mohali  was at its best as they made forays into global fashion industry attracting international recognition of their out of box designs today in ‘ANUKAMA-2015’ at Tagore Theatre here today.

 According to an official spokesperson, the graduating students of NIIFT showcased their creative talent during the Annual Design Collection Show ‘ANUKAMA-2015’.  Starting with the opening theme based on ‘Save the Girl Child’, the show progressed to the designs modeled by students on multiple themes, for e.g. --- Phulkari, Ikat, Moroccan Art, Wooden Furniture, Rock Garden, Monsoon, Flowing Water, Chimes, Marvelous Metallic, and Rock Band.

The spokesperson further said that the collections of the students were brought to life by supermodels-- Amanpreet Wahi, Shilpa Singh, Hida, Himani Thapa, Meenakshi Chaudhary, Reena, Priyanka Bhau, Aanchal Chaudhary , Anamika Benn, Deepak, Saurav, Vishnu, Gokul and Sumit under the stewardship of Kaushik Ghosh who choreographed the show.

Divulging more details, the spokesperson said that this year the audience got to view two collections designed especially for Tynor Othotics, manufacturer of Orthotic aids in India and main sponsor of the show.

Elaborating more, the spokesperson said that Mr. Madan Mohan Mittal, Industries and Commerce, Technical Education & Industrial Training Minister, Punjab, graced the occasion as Chief Guest and gave away the awards to the winners in the various categories.

Stating further, the spokesperson said that His Excellency Mr. Larbi Reffouh, Ambassador of the Kingdom of Morocco along with his Wife Mrs. Sabah Kalai Reffouh were the Guests of Honor at the Fashion Show. He said that there was an enormous scope for collaboration in areas of Technical Education, Engineering Industry, Textile & Apparel and Agro Industry.

On the occasion, Mr. Anirudh Tewari, IAS, Chairman, NIIFT and Principal Secretary, Department of Industries and Commerce, Punjab presided over the function. Mr. S.R. Ladhar, IAS, Director General, NIIFT, Mohali, Sh. P.J Singh, MD, Tynor Orthotics along with Mr. A. J Singh were also present. Others present during the occasion were Sh. K.S Brar, Director NIIFT, Sh. Inderjit Singh, Registrar, Dr.Poonam Thakur, Academic Head, Dr. Simrita Singh, Show Coordinator, Mr. Gobind Rai ,Course Co-ordinator, Fashion Design and all faculty and staff from NIIFT, Mohali, Ludhiana & Jalandhar.