Punjab News:

PUNJAB STATE IAS OFFICERS’ASSOCIATION ELECTS ITS NEW PRESIDENT  CHANDIGARH, OCTOBER 30:           Mr. Jagpal Singh Sandhu, IAS, Additional Chief Secretary (Home) was today elected as President of Punjab State IAS officers’ Association for 2015-16 with a thumping majority. He was greeted on his election by a large number of IAS officers. The Chief Secretary, Mr. Sarvesh Kaushal presented a bouquet to the newly elected President. Mr. Viswajeet Khanna was elected as the Senior Vice President of the Association and Mr. Anirudh Tewari was elected as the Vice President of the Association.  On his election as President, Mr. Jagpal Singh Sandhu said that he will shortly announce his executive and it will be his earnest endeavour to promote the spirit of fraternity and synergize individual talent into collective all round versatility of the cadre. Mr Sandhu further thanked the cadre for reposing absolute faith in him by giving him an opportunity to look after the organization and its members and to revive the glorious traditions of the association. -------- CHUNNI LAL BHAGAT INAUGURATES LABOUR SHED CONSTRUCTED AT A COST OF 20 LAKH  FOUNDATION STONE OF PUNJAB MODEL WELFARE CENTRE LAID  Chandigarh October 30: Punjab Labour Minister Bhagat Chunni Lal today inaugurated the newly  constructed a Labour -Shed with a cost of Rs. 20 lac at S.A.S. Nagar Mohali for the convenience and welfare of labourers coming from nearby areas to seek work on day to day basis.          The Minister also laid the foundation stone of Punjab Model Welfare Centre to be constructed at the cost of Rs. 15 crore at S.A.S. Nagar, Mohali. The purpose of the centre is to accommodate all the offices of the labour department under one roof which would be extremely beneficial to the labour class. The Bhawan would be completed by mid of next year. The Minister further stated that this Bhawan was a beginning and 29 more Welfare Centres for the labourers would also be constructed across the State.           He also asked the officers of the department to ensure that the welfare schemes of the Government are strictly implemented so that the needy labourers could take the benefit of these schemes as envisaged by the state government.           Chief Parliamentary Secretary, Labour, Ch. Nand Lal; Principal Secretary, Labour, Mr. Vishavjeet Khanna; Chairperson, District Planning Board, Bibi Amanjot Kaur, Panch, Sarpanches and Senior Officers of the Labour Department were also present on the occasion. - Sukhbir’s announcement of Zero Tax on Food Processing buoys investors 55 MoUs of Food Processing Sector with investment of Rs. 8000 crore signed on first day of summit Harsimrat Badal presides over session on New Technologies and Emerging Business Opportunities in Food Processing Food Bowl Punjab set to become Processed Food Hub  ISB (Mohali), October 28: The announcement of Punjab Deputy Chief Minister Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal of Zero Tax on new food processing units in Punjab had an electrifying effect on Investors with 55 investors from all over the country and abroad committing investment of Rs. 8000 crore by signing MoUs in the presence of Union Food Processing Minister Mrs. Harsimrat Kaur Badal.   The Union Minister said that Punjab, popularly known as the ‘Bread basket of India’, contributes more than 40% of the central procurement of wheat, 26% of the central procurement of rice, 75% of total production of kinnows and oranges, and 7.5% of the total milk production in the country. Further, Agricultural sector plays a pivotal role in boosting India’s economy with about 21 % of GSDP being contributed by Agricultural and allied sectors against an all India figure of 14%. Mrs. Badal apprised the participants that Punjab heralded the first Green Revolution in the country, and has made rapid strides in improving the quality and quantity of the food grain production. She said that endowed with high fertility, abundant natural resources and good quality of soil, the state enjoys high yield for various agricultural produce. Mrs. Badal said that Food processing was the focus area of investment in Punjab, and concerted efforts were being made by the government to facilitate big investments in food processing industry.         The Union Minister also said that Punjab has a strong base of a pre-existing ecosystem for the Agro & Food Processing sector, which provides it an edge over other states. She said that now Punjab is looking forward to enhance the capabilities of this vital sector through the adoption of modern technologies for food processing, and ensuring significant linkages across the value chain. The State is keen to clear the way for conducive regulatory environment of total transparency for smooth operations.              Prominent amongst those who spoke on the occasion included Punjab Agriculture Minister Jathedar Tota Singh, Additional Chief Secretary Mr. Suresh Kumar, Secretary Agriculture Mr. Kahan Singh Pannu, Siraj A Chaudhary, Chairman Cargill, Mr. Akshay Bector, Bectors Food, Vivek Bharti Executive Director Pepsico India, Mr. Sanjay Khajooria, Senior Vice President Nestle.  ------ CAPTAINS OF INDUSTRY AND BUSINESS TYCOONS LAUDS PATH BREAKING INDUSTRIAL FRIENDLY INITIATIVES OF PUNJAB GOVERNMENT INVESTORS’ SUMMIT A HEALTHY PLATFORM FOR ENGAGING PARTNERSHIP BETWEEN GOVERNMENT AND INDUSTRY TO ENSURE DEVELOPMENT AND PROSPERITY IN PUNJAB- AMBANI PUNJAB GOVERNMENT HAS ACTUALLY DEMONSTRATED ITS WILL TO CHANGE AND THINGS ARE NOW MOVING IN RIGHT DIRECTION- SK MUNJAL TODAY’S DECISION TO EXEMPT AGRO BASED INDUSTRY FROM INPUT TAX WOULD REINFORCE STATE GOVERNMENT’S FAITH AND COMMITMENT FOR SOCIETAL WELFARE- DEVESHWAR HIGHLY IMPRESSED BY THE ROADMAP PRESENTED BY DEPUTY CHIEF MINISTER FOR DEVELOPMENT OF INDUSTRY- RAHUL BAJAJ ICICI BANK COMMITTED TO PARTNER WITH THE STATE GOVERNMENT IN THEIR ENDEAVOUR TO DRIVE NEW GROWTH OPPORTUNITIES AND CREATE NEW BENCHMARKS IN ECONOMIC PROGRESS- CHANDA KOCHAR NEWLY CONSTRUCTED INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT AT MOHALI WOULD ACT AS CATALYST TO FURTHER PROMOTE TRADE AND INDUSTRY IN THE STATE- AJAY SINGH NAVRATTAN GROUP FIRMS UP INVESTMENT WORTH RS 1500 CRORE IN STATE SAS Nagar (Mohali), October 28- Country’s leading Captains of Industry and Business Tycoons today highly appreciated the path breaking initiatives taken by the Punjab government for the promotion of Industry in a big way. Taking part in the deliberations during the inaugural session of Progressive Punjab Investors’ Summit here at Indian School of Business, these top business honchos acknowledged these industrial friendly steps as an integral part to boost  the industry in the state. Chairman of Reliance Industries Mr. Mukesh Ambani said that Punjabis were known for their benevolence world over, which was the redeeming factor to attract investors to invest here. He recalled that even his father late Dhirubai Ambani acknowlged the open hearted character of Punjabis and often boast to be a ‘Punjabi Gujrati’. Mr. Ambani said that dynamism of Deputy Chief Minister Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal motivated him to invest Rs 3900 crore in Punjab for making it country’s first state to have 4G connectivity in all the villages, towns and cities. “This summit is not merely an event but a healthy platform for engaging partnership between government and industry to ensure development and prosperity in Punjab” he added. Joint Managing Director Hero Motocorp Mr. Sunil Kant Munjal said that there was tremendous scope of industrialization in the state especially in the area of automotive components. He said that the bold initiatives taken by the state government for the promotion of industry deserves full marks as they have not only made announcements but really implemented it in true letter and spirit. “Punjab government has actually demonstrated its will to change and things are now moving in right direction” added Mr. Munjal.                   CEO of ITC group Mr. YC Deveshwar said that Punjab enormous potential for the expansion and development of agro based food processing industry in view of its high agriculture productivity. He said that if Indian government could give a slogan of ‘Make in India’ then why Punjab could not be a leading state in promoting the concept of ‘Value addition of agri-produce’, which would not only strengthen the agrarian economy but also generate tremendous employment potential. Mr. Deveshwar said that today’s decision to exempt agro based industry from input tax would reinforce state government’s faith and commitment for societal welfare. Chairman Bajaj group Mr. Rahul Bajaj said that he was highly impressed by the roadmap presented by Deputy Chief Minister Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal for development of industry. He said that notwithstanding the fact that Punjab was facing several challenges, the state was gradually emerging as a favorite destination of industrialists. Mr. Bajaj also complimented the Punjab government for having really excelled in the ease of doing business for its investor friendly initiatives. In her address MD & CEO, ICICI Bank Chanda Kochhar said, “ICICI Bank is committed to partner with the State Government in their endeavour to drive new growth opportunities and create new benchmarks in economic progress. She said that they were planning to significantly scale up our operations in Punjab even further, gearing up to support the next phase of growth and economic expansion in the state. She said that to catalyse the state’s growth and promote financial inclusion, we would double our branch network in Punjab over the next two years and also disburse over Rs 20,000 crore of loans in the next three years. We plan to offer two new products - Tatkal Shishu and Tatkal Kisan Credit Card through the State Government’s Sewa Kendras. We would leverage technology to collaborate with the Government in its e-governance initiatives. We would also offer customized services that will facilitate young citizens of the State to pursue their education and technical courses in Canada. Further, we plan to expand our skill development initiatives for the under privileged youth through ICICI Academy for Skills by setting up a 30,000 sq ft skilling centre. Additionally, we are also committed to support the State Government for setting up 25 skill development centres across the state.” Chairman and Managing Director Sun Pharma Mr. Dilip Shangvi said that his group had already high stakes in Punjab with recent acquisition of Ranbaxy. He said no doubt there was a congenial investment atmosphere in the state and the group may go for further expansion in Punjab in near future.       CMD of Spice Jet Airways Mr. Ajay Singh said that the newly constructed International Airport at Mohali would act as catalyst to further promote trade and industry in the state. Vice Chairman of DLF Mr. Rajiv Singh also hailed the investor friendly decisions of the state government and said that his group would make investment to tune of Rs 9200 crore in the state. Executive Chairman of Fortis Healthcare Mr. Malwinder Mohan Singh announced to set up a state-of-the art Medical University in the state for imparting world class Healthcare facilities in Punjab. CMD of Vardhman Group Mr. SP Oswal lauded the helpful attitude of Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal, who was always ready to resolve the issues faced by the industrialists. He urged the state government to come out with a comprehensive policy to boost the textile sector in the state. Meanwhile, the Navrattan Group also firmed up  an investment of about Rs. 1500 Crore  in the State of Punjab, primarily in the Cement and the Power Generation sectors. Chairman of group Mr. Himanshu Verma in his meeting with Deputy Chief Minister said that the major milestones of the Navrattan Group include: Navrattan Cement Industries LLP which uses green based cement technology to produce green cement by using by-products like fly ash with its manufacturing facilities coming up in Rajpura and Bathinda. Navrattan Group, with its revolutionary inventions in Green based technologies has ventured into various sectors such as Renewable Energy, Infrastructure, Realty, Biosciences, Agriculture and Healthcare, aimed towards equitable and sustainable growth. The company has already signed an agreement with L & T Thermal Power Plant for 24 years for lifting their fly ash. Navrattan Green Power Co. Ltd.is a pioneer in low cost power generation patented SUNSUL technology that uses industrial waste to generate power and are also worldwide exclusive IP owners of the said technology. Prominent amongst other who spokes on occasion Chairman Piramal group Mr. Ajay Piramal, Chief Executive US based General automic electromagnetic system Dr. Vivek Lal, Deputy Minister of Poland Mr. Jerzy Witlod Pietrewics, CMD GVK Group Mr. GVK Reddy and Secretary General Shangai Municipal Political and Law Commission Mr. Jiang Ping.    --------- CM ENVISIONS PUNJAB AS THE MOST FAVORED INVESTMENT DESTINATION ACROSS THE GLOBE PUNJAB INKS 376 MoUs TO THE TUNE OF OVER RS 1.12 LAKH CRORE MASSIVE INVESTMENTS TO GENERATE 2.50 LAKH JOBS IN THE STATE CM PATS DEPUTY CM FOR SUCCESS OF FIRST AND SECOND EDITION OF INVESTORS’ SUMMIT OFFERS ‘BLANK CHEQUE’ TO ENTREPRENEURS INVESTING IN PUNJAB TAX CONCESSIONS TO NEIGHBORLY STATES PROVED TO BE DETRIMENTAL FOR STATE’S INDUSTRIAL DEVELOPMENT UNDERSCORES NEED TO IMPART SKILL TRAINING TO THE YOUTH DEPUTY CM ANNOUNCES TO WAIVE ALL INPUT TAXES OF AGRO PROCESSING INDUSTRY ENTIRE STATE TO BE COVERED UNDER 4G CONNECTIVITY BY NEXT YEAR INAUGURAL DAY OF SECOND EDITION OF PROGRESSIVE PUNJAB INVESTORS’ SUMMIT-2015 SAS Nagar (Mohali), October 28-             Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today envisioned Punjab as the most favored investment destination not in the country but across the globe which was reflective of investors’ confidence who inked as many as 376 Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) with the state government of over Rs 1,12,000 crore (nearly 17 billion US $), having employment potential of 2.50 lakh jobs, during the second edition of Progressive Punjab Investors’ Summit 2015.  In his keynote address during the summit well attended by galaxy of business tycoons and captains of the industry from country as well as from abroad at the Indian School of Business (ISB) here today, the Chief Minister said that the credit of success of first such summit held in December 2013 and now the present one goes to Deputy Chief Minister Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal, who always believes in "Think Big and Achieve Big, as he had worked relentlessly for making the current summit a grand success. He said that Punjab was the best state in the country from investment point of view as it was credited with best infra structure facilities, excellent road, rail and air connectivity, flawless telecommunication network and above all ease of doing business here, as acknowledged by World Bank, due to single officer mechanism in Invest Punjab, first of its kind in the country to give all the clearances/ sanctions to prospective investors from 23 odd departments within a record period of just one month. Mr. Badal especially welcomed the delegates from Poland, China, Hungry and South Korea and companies from USA, UK, France, Italy, Singapore, who have come all the way to participate in this Summit. Highly confident of attracting huge investments in Punjab, the Chief Minister said that the state government had already sincerely offered to the prospective entrepreneurs by way of giving them a liberal package of incentives and fiscal concessions and now it was there turn to set up their ventures in the state. He reiterated his commitment to further resolve any issue related to accelerate the tempo of industrialization in the state as his government was ever ready to offer red carpet welcome to the industry to ensure overall development of the state and prosperity of its people. Soliciting whole hearted support and cooperation from the Business honchos, Mr. Badal said “To put Punjab on industrial map of the country in a big way I offer a ‘blank cheque’ to all of you in terms of attractive incentives and concessions to facilitate you for making huge investments in the state”. Sharing his concern for swift industrialization in the state, the Chief Minister bemoaned despite the state offering such lucrative concessions the country’s leading industrialists were still shying away to make investments here and emphasized the need to change this mind set. Without mincing any words, Mr. Badal said that if the hard working and sincere Punjabis could do miracles in making our country self reliant in food production and safeguarding its border from the external aggression for which it has rightly earned the epitaph of country’s “food bowl” and “sword arm” respectively how could they let your investments go in vain. He said, “Have trust and confidence in us and I am sure that your decision to invest in Punjab will never go wrong and together we will certainly script a new success story of unprecedented development in the state”. Ruing the decision of previous Central Government to extend fiscal incentives and concessions to the neighborly states of Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh and Jammu & Kashmir, the Chief Minister said he was not personally against giving such concessions to these states but excluding Punjab, despite of its huge contribution towards country’s economic growth, was not only unfair but also unjustifiable. He said that this decision has proved to be a major setback to our existing local industry, which also fled to these states to avail these concessions. Mr. Badal exhorted the industrialists to help the state in this hour of crisis when our predominantly agrarian economy had already reached a plateau and it was now high time for a paradigm shift from agriculture to industry especially agro-based industry, which would get a new lease of life with the today’s announcement to do away with VAT, CST and other taxes on Agro Processing Industry. Calling upon the industrialists to help the state in setting up of Skill centres across the state, the Chief Minister said that this initiative would be beneficial to provide a pool of skilled labour to industry on one hand besides making the youngsters to earn their livelihood, on the other. He said that the state government has already initiated the process of establishing Integrated Multi Skill centres in the varied field of manufacturing, healthcare, agriculture and allied farming activities and others to enable the unemployed youth to be gainfully employed. Earlier, in his power point presentation, Deputy Chief Minister Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal said Punjab was known as a producer of foodgrains but he felt that it should also be able to add value to its produce. “Keeping this in view and with the intention of making Punjab a hub for agro processing industry, I have decided to waive all input taxes of agro processing industry. He said this included VAT, CST and purchase tax. Mr. Badal also announced that Punjab would be the first State in the country to have 4G connectivity in the entire State with every village, rural school and hospital being covered under this facility by January next year. The Deputy Chief Minister, while acknowledging the huge response the Investment Summit has received with representatives pouring in from nine countries with Poland even being represented by a ministerial delegation, disclosed the State had established a conversion rate of 60 per cent on the MoUs signed during the last summit in 2013. He said Punjab had received an investment of Rs 41,187 crore against MoUs worth Rs 63,000 signed in 2013. Speaking on the occasion Industry Minister Mr. Madan Mohan Mittal listed the pro-industry initiatives taken by the state government and hoped that this endeavor would further continue to propel industrialization in the state. He said that Punjab was fast emerging as a major industrial destination in the country as there was a tremendous scope for further expansion of industry in manufacturing, textile, agro-processing and automotives.   Prominent amongst other present on the occasion included Union Food Processing Minister Mrs. Harsimrat Kaur Badal, Cabinet Ministers Mr. Bikram Singh Majithia, Mr. Parminder Singh Dhindsa, Mr. Surjit Singh Rakhra, Dr. Daljeet Singh Cheema, Mr. Gulzar Singh Ranike, Mr. Sharanjit Singh Dhillon and Mr. Sohan Singh Thandal, Advisor to Chief Minister on National Affairs and Media Mr. Harcharan Bains, Lok Sabha MP Jathedar Ranjit Singh Brahmpura, Rajya Sabha Members Mr. Sukhdev Singh Dhindsa, Mr. Balwinder Singh Bhunder and Mr. Naresh Gujral, Chief Secretary Mr. Sarvesh Kaushal, Additional Chief Secretaries Mr. Karan Avtar Singh, Mr. Suresh Kumar, Mr. NS Kalsi and Mr. Jagpal Singh Sandhu, Principal Secretary to Chief Minister Mr. SK Sandhu, Special Principal Secretary to Chief Minister Mr. Gaggandip Singh Brar and CEO Invest Punjab Mr. Anirudh Tiwari. O/o Deputy Chief Minister, Punjab SukhbirBadal receives kudos from industry czars  (All corporate honchos praise MrBadal's can do spirit and ability to deliver on his promises) Chandigarh, October 28 - Today was not only a red letter day for Punjab but also for Deputy chief minister Sukhbir Singh Badal. The Deputy CM won kudos from industry czars who lauded his can do spirit as well as his ability to deliver on his promises. Leading the charge was Reliance Chairman MukeshAmbani. He said "the deputy cm has not only taken our suggestions but implemented them also". Hero MotoCorp Joint MD Sunil Kant Munjal said "we appreciate your can do spirit". He said MrBadal had continuously pushed the envelope which had resulted in the results the State was getting today.  ITC Chairman YC Daveshwar while appreciating MrSukhbirBadal's decision to waive off all input taxes on food processing industry, said this had not been done to help ITC but the people of Punjab. He said MrBadal had shrewdly realised the employment opportunities that would be created by this move as well as the buoyancy the new industry would give to the State's economy. "This shows the Deputy CM's commitment to the people of Punjab", he added.  Industry veteran Rahul Bajaj of Bajaj Group while speaking at the investment summit, said proper planning had resulted in the success the State was achieving. He said MrBadal had come up with the right incentives which were needed to steer the State's investment story.  Mr Ajay PiramalMD of Piramal Group said he had not seen anyone with the same dynamism and ability to get the job done as was the case with MrBadal. He said "if I had the same capability I would have done much better in my business".  MrsChandaKochhar, CEO ICICI said the manner in which Punjab had moved to attract investment clearly showed MrBadal's passion and determination to accelerate development of Punjab. She said Punjab had made very relevant promises in the first summit in 2013 and followed it up with processes which had made ease of doing business a reality in Punjab. MrsKochhar also lauded the fact that all the promises made by the State had been fulfilled.  Mr Ajay Singh, CMD Spice Jet, said "I wish we had someone like him when we tried to rebuild Spice Jet airlines". Mr GVK Reddy Chairman and MD of GVK Group said "MrSukhbirBadal had a hands on approach in helping us implement our project and also monitored its progress at regular intervals". MrMalvinderMohan Singh of Fortis Healthcare while appreciating the presentation made by the Deputy CM, said he was personally delighted by MrBadal's vision as well as implementation and execution of the commitments made by the State. EOM -  PROGRESSIVE PUNJAB INVESTORS SUMMIT-2015  PUNJAB SIGNS 376 MOUS WITH AN INVESTMENT OF RS. 1.12 LAKH CRORE  Sukhbir Badal announces food processing industry to be tax free in Punjab  (Industry to get power at Rs. 4.99 per unit, cheapest in the country)  (Punjab to be the first state to have 4G connectivity by January)  (2,000 skill centers to train 1.5 lakh youth, end of Inspector raj)  ISB, Mohali (SAS Nagar) October 28 – In a big bonanza for the state , 374 MOUs with an investment of Rs. 1.13 Lakh crore were signed during the second edition of progressive Punjab investors summit 2015 here today . Besides that Punjab Deputy chief minister Sukhbir Singh Badal announced the waiver of input tax on the food processing industry and provision of power at the cheapest rate of Rs 4.99 per unit in the country . The Deputy CM during the course of a 35 minute power point presentation also announced that the government was all set to launch an integrated food park at Ludhiana, a Green Tech Valley at Phagwara and a MRO (Maintenance, repair and overhaul) facility adjoining the international airport at Mohali. In his presentation, which was well received by prospective investors and corporate honchos, Mr Badal said Punjab was known as a producer of foodgrains but he felt that it should also be able to add value to its produce. “Keeping this in view and with the intention of making Punjab a hub for agro processing industry, I decided to waive all input taxes of agro processing industry. He said this included VAT, CST and purchase tax. Giving detail of other steps being taken by the government, Mr Badal disclosed the government had tied up with various corporates to establish 2,000 skill centers to train 1.5 lakh youth in various trades and professions in the State. He said companies involved in this task included ICICI Bank, Walmart, ITC, TATA Motors and Maruti besides others. Mr Badal also announced that Punjab would be the first State in the country to have 4G connectivity in the entire State with every village, rural school and hospital being covered under this facility by January next year. “Nowhere else in the country has this been done till now”, he said while thanking Reliance Chairman Mukesh Ambani for taking this initiative. The Deputy CM, while acknowledging the huge response the Investment Summit has received with representatives pouring in from nine countries with Poland even being represented by a ministerial delegation, disclosed the State had established a conversion rate of 60 per cent on the mous signed during the last summit in 2013. He said Punjab had received an investment of Rs 41,187 crore against mous worth Rs 63,000 signed in 2013. Mr Badal also announced the end of Inspector Raj in the State. “We inherited this system from the British who did not trust Indians. “We however have started self-declaration and adopted third party inspection system”. He announced that in future no inspector from labour, boiler or pollution department would visit factories in future”.             Highlighting the fact that the State had been successful in its endeavours because of the physical infrastructure it had created in the run up to the investment drive, Mr Badal said Punjab had created two international airports besides three domestic airports. He said in the next 18 months all towns in the State would be linked with four to six lane highways which were coming up at a cost of Rs 21,349 crore. Explaining the philosophy behind the State’s approach to investment generation, Mr Badal said “when we started on this drive I felt we needed to make it easy for business to set up shop in the State”. He said accordingly the State established the Invest Punjab office which has the powers of 23 departments and now gives all necessary statutory clearances within a period of one month of application. “This has made ease of business a reality in Punjab”, he added. Talking about the success of the first investment summit in 2013, the Deputy Chief Minister informed that Punjab had fulfilled all its five major promises including ease of doing business, best connectivity, industrial parks, power surplus state and urban development infrastructure. The Deputy Chief Minister said the investor friendly initiatives of the Punjab has resulted in the State achieving the recognition of “the best state to start ease of doing business initiatives” by the World Bank and the Union Government. “We are far-far-far ahead of other states and have implemented revolutionary initiatives that no other state could think of realizing such system”, he added. Disclosing other laurels won by the State, the Deputy CM said the State power utility PSPCL was earlier ranked 17th in power sector but now in 2015 POWERCOM had been declared as the best power utility by the Union government. Declaring the SAS Nagar to be the IT hub of the country in future Mr. Badal said that Mohali International airport would boost economic activities in Punjab. He said this along with the creation of 2147 e seva kendras offering 200 citizen centric services to the people would be a gamer changer in the State and result in ending corruption. EOM  PROGRESSIVE PUNJAB INVESTOR SUMMIT   INFORMATION AND PUBLIC RELATIONS DEPARTMENT PUNJAB             PUNJAB ALL SET TO BECOME MANUFACTURING HUB OF SOUTH-EAST ASIA PUNJAB SME’S ADOPTING E-COMMERCE PLATFORMS SUMMIT AIMS AT ENHANCING INVESTMENT IN MANUFACTURING TO 50% ROBOTIC MANUFACTURING ENHANCES EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES SAS NAGAR (MOHALI) OCTOBER 28:                     The technical session on manufacturing in progress Punjab summit-2015 focused on reducing the cost of manufacturing, pooling research and development costs, measures to reduce the cost of inputs, skilling and retraining of existing work force to new technologies besides exploiting the emerging e-commerce platform to globally marketing the projects being manufacturing the Punjab.            Mr. Karan Avtar Singh, Additional Chief Secretary Industry & Commerce while presiding over the session of marketing said that Punjabi have entrepreneurship in their blood who are known for accepting challenges and succeeding in adverse circumstances.  He said that Punjab has been known as breaking ground for small and medium enterprising and time have come that these enterprises should pool their research and development resources to survive in global challenges and Chinese onslaught.           Asking SME’s not to resist robotic technology, Mr. Singh said that the studies by Harward University and experiments of German government clearly indicate that the introduction of robotic technology there is increase in employment potential of skilled youth and new technology offers new vistas of employment and challenges.  He said that Punjab is one of the prominent manufacturing states in the country with focus on various industries including light engineering, textiles, automotive components etc. Manufacturing sector has witnessed an increasing boom in its share of State GSDP escalating up to 20% of the GSDP in 2013‐14. The State’s average index of industrial promotion growth for 2013‐14 was placed at 1.8% as compared to (‐)0.7% at the national level. Emphasizing on the strength of entrepreneurial qualities of state, he said that Punjab has emerged as the leading hub for textile-based industries such as apparel manufacturing, spinning and hosiery exports. With the development of apparel parks, favorable textile policy and other incentives for the creation of textile infrastructure, the state offers multiple opportunities for investment. Further, engineering sector is a major contributor in the economy of Punjab. Over the last decade, it has grown at the rate which is more than 16% annually, and constitutes 23% of the total industrial output of Punjab. Inviting the investors to invest in manufacturing sector he said that another key strength of Punjab is its strong base of well-established Micro, Small and Medium enterprises in the state. He said that approximately 2,00,000 small scale industries which are one of the most important pillars of the industrial growth are active in the State. Mr. Singh said that Punjab has always promoted innovation & enterprise. There is scope for development of manufacturing across the value chain including services for high end design, Prototyping, 3D Printing etc. Govt. of Punjab is keen to develop a thriving ecosystem in the state for hi-tech manufacturing and encourage the local players to invest in the modernization of manufacturing facilities to improve quality, competitiveness and value addition. The session also discussed on the issue of building a robust manufacturing ecosystem - Strengthening vendor linkages, plug and play infrastructure and competitive industrial clusters.            The delegates did a brainstorming on building a robust value chain for new age manufacturing – Industrial clusters with services for high end design, prototyping, 3D printing.  Role of government in facilitating vendor to anchor linkages and knowledge collaboration was also deliberated in the session.            Prominent amongst others who were spoke on the occasion Mr. Rajiv Singh, Head Automotive KPMG; Mr. Sunil Mathur, MD and CEO of Sipmens Ltd.; Mr. Sachit Jain, Executive Director Vardhman Special Steel Ltd.; Mr. Akshye Sangwan, COO Sonalika Industry; Mr. Richard Rekhy, CEO KPMG and Mr. Viren Popli, CoO Swaraj Division Mahindra & Mahindra.   Progressive Punjab Investor Summit   INFORMATION AND PUBLIC RELATIONS DEPARTMENT PUNJAB   -       IT SECTOR TO GENERATE 2 LACS JOBS IN PUNJAB IN NEXT 5 YEARS -       IT SECTOR SET TO BECOME JOB ACCELERATOR -       PUNJAB ALL SET TO BECOME FIRST STATE WITH IT INDUSTRY IN EVERY VILLAGE -       4G CONNECTIVITY TO ALL VILLAGES WOULD BE GAME CHANGER FOR PUNJAB -       SILICON VALLEY MOHALI SET TO SURPASS BANGALORE, HYDERABAD IN NEXT 5 YEARS                      SAS NAGAR (MOHALI) OCTOBER 28:             The announcement of Mr. MukeshAmbani Chairman Reliance Industries to make Punjab only state in the country to have all villages and all schools linked with 4G broadband network generated much enthusiasm in the technical session and IT&ITES, - fostering entrepreneurship, with delegates discussing new possible openings with 4G connectivity available in every village.  The announcement of 4G connectivity changed the discourse of session with every delegate focusing on taking the benefits of IT & ITES to the villages, skilling the village youth with new IT enabled technology, expanding the e-commerce and e-trade network to every village, linking all 1617 agriculture marketing centers that are handling Asia’s biggest procurement process twice a year and making Punjab IT hub of South-East Asia.              Mr.Sridhar Mitta founder and MD Next Wealth Entrepreneurs with 48 years ofexperience in IT service said that Punjab with highly skilled computer literate human resources backup has potential to generate 2 lakh jobs in IT sector alone in next 2 years.  He said that 4G penetration to PAN Punjab rural area would be game changer for the industrial growth of Punjab with every village home becoming a IT module with in next two years.  He said that Punjabis have always loved to accept new technology fiddle with it and they would surely create new IT platforms to expend their skills.              Mr. Mitta said that going by the vision of the Deputy Chief Minister Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal and new industrial policy of the state, he was sure that Silicon Valley Mohali is allset to surpass Bangalore and Hyderabad in next 2 years, with infrastructure boost in those states already crumbling down. He added that Punjab has all the ingredients of being a perfect IT destination with 740 registered IT units in state and cost of IT service is 20 to 30 percent lesser than the other states of India. Pradeep Gupta CMD Cyber Media Groupsaid that Punjab is an emerging IT &ITeS hub in India. The State possesses a perfect blend of a large pool of skilled technical talent, superior infrastructure and excellent quality of life. Existing ecosystem in the region of large scale IT companies including Infosys, WIPRO, Tech Mahindra, etc. makes it an ideal destination for investments in technology sector.   Rajeev Rai CEO and co-founder QA Source,said that the IT, ITeS& BPO industry are considered to be one of the pillars of the economy within the IT industry in the country. The growing mobile penetration, evolving consumer mindset and favorable demographics in India has provided the unique opportunity to fundamentally change the way companies connect with their customers. Government of Punjab is keen to tap this potential and attract private sector players in this space. KS Bhatia the founder of Pumpkart, the online water pump selling, portalsaid thatPunjab has a state-of-the-art Software Technology Park (STPI) in SAS Nagar (Mohali) and Amritsar. In addition, there is an upcoming STPI incubation center of approximately 1.4 lakh sq feet in Mohali to provide enabling ecosystem to the new age startup companies.             The session was held in packed hall of the ISB with AkhileshTuteja as the session moderator. Other panel of experts included Rajneesh Aggarwal director Technology Parks of India, and Sanjay Mehta managing director Teleperformance.  -  POLAND AND PUNJAB JOINTLY TO REWRITE NEW CHAPTER OF INDUSTRIAL GROWTH ·  POLAND TO DOUBLE INVESTMENT IN AGRO PROCESSING SECTOR ·  POLAND AND PAU TO INTENSIFY RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT ACTIVITIES ·  POLAND TO PROVIDE KNOW HOW FOR FOOD PROCESSING SECTOR ISB (MOHALI), OCTOBER 28: Poland and Punjab today vowed to rewrite new chapter of industrial growth with Poland offering latest state-of-the-art technology for food processing industry besides evolving a new vision for agriculture growth for the food bowl of India. Inaugurating the session Mr. Witold Jerzy Pietrewicz, Secretary of State, Ministry of Economy said that Poland was quiet enthused with the partnership with food bowl of India i.e. Punjab and said that with the agriculture growth of Punjab and technology of Poland, Punjab can become food processing hub that can meet the processed food requirements of 50 percent of Asia. Offering to double its investment to food processing sector, he said that Punjabis and Polish shared the qualities of entrepreneurship underlining the need to focus on advanced technologies in agriculture and food processing, research and development in agriculture besides real organic farming. He said that Poland has also signed MoU between Punjab and Lublin today to give a boost to business ties especially in agriculture and food processing sectors. He announced that Poland will intensify the cooperation with Punjab in business sectors in time to come. He said that the Poland and Punjab will witness economic development by promoting trade exchange. While addressing the session Krzysatof Grabczuk, Representative of Polish Local Government, said that Poland and Punjab will together explore great business relations. He said that Poland will become promising business partner for Punjab and the both have taken right direction in this field. Lucyna Jaremczuk, Counsellor General at the Ministry of Economy in her address welcomed and thanked the Punjab Government for inviting Poland to become an active partner in the Investors Summit. She said that they were envisaging Punjab as engine of growth in food processing and agriculture sectors. She said like Punjabis, the Polish were also quite friendly and they can put new milestones in the field of development and economic growth in collaboration with each other. The Poland ministry delegation also announced that Poland and Punjab Agriculture University will intensify research and development activities in food processing and agriculture sectors so that phenomenal strides in this area could be witnessed in future. The delegation also said that the Polish side will also provide know how for food processing sector to Punjab.    The other members of delegation including Stanislaw Krzaczek of Krzacazek, Mr. Marek Kudach of Kalgrup, Piotr Nakonienczny of Sonet, Cezary Szczurowski of Krystian, Grzegorz Lubas of ERES Medical were also shared their views on various issues relating to business, trade and industrial sector. Additional Chief Secretary Mr. Suresh Kumar welcomed and thanked the delegation for their positive perspectives of investment in Punjab. Highlighting the similarities between Poland and Punjab Mr. Suresh Kumar accompanied by other senior officers of Punjab Government also honoured the members of delegation. Progressive Punjab Summit 2015 PUNJAB SET TO BECOME BIOSCIENCES INCUBATOR OF 21STCENTURY -         KINGS COLLEGE LONDON’S MOU TO SET UP BIOSCIENCE UNIVERSITY IN EDUCATION CITY TO ATTRACT WORLD’S BIOSCIENCE INDUSTRY TO ‘NEW CHANDIGARH’ -         EDUCATION AND HEALTH CITIES IN ‘NEW CHANDIGARH’ EMERGING AS NEW RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT HUBS OF BIOSCIENCE -         ONCOLOGY SHOULD BE FOCUS OF BIOSCIENCE SECTOR IN PUNJAB SAS NAGAR (MOHALI), OCT 28             Punjab is all set to become the incubator of biosciences of 21st century with pillars of one of the finest bioscience centers fuelling its growth. The Kings College London’s Mou to set up Bioscience University in Education City will attract world’s bioscience industry to new Chandigarh opening vistas of employment in the field of pharmaceuticals, academia and research & development.             The keenness and commitment of Punjab government towards promoting biosciences investments in the form of infrastructure development and best of the research and development facility in the state has buoyed this sector. Deepanwita Chattopadhyay, the Chairperson and CEO IKP Hyderabad, said that Punjab was blessed to have skilled human resources and atmosphere for research and academia in the neighborhood to promote biotechnology sector – technology transfer, research and development etc. Gautam Dass COO ABLE said that education and health cities in new Chandigarh were emerging as new research and development hubs of bioscience. Utkarsh Palnitkar, Head Advisory said that the Punjab has already begun journey by identifying setting up of a life science park in Knowledge City, Mohali in sprawling 80 acres of land. Mohali,  the upcoming big destination in life sciences sector is nestled midst of finest life sciences research institutes in India  including National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research (NIPER) Mohali, National Agri-Food Biotechnology Institute (NAFBI) Mohali, Indian Institute of Science Education & Research (IISER) Mohali, Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Ropar, Punjab University Chandigarh, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education & Research (PGIMER) Chandigarh, etc.). Prof KK Bhutani director NIPER  said that the cluster was further enhanced by the existence of several existing and upcoming enterprises. Further, owing to its excellent infrastructure, connectivity, good quality of life that proximity to Baddi (Asia’s largest pharma cluster), Mohali offers the place is well suited to become the Lifesciences hub of India.             Dr Vijay Chander founder and chairman, Strand Life Sciences felt that Punjab should focus on research in oncology sector and produce affordable drugs, decode genomes of the malady and contribute in all possible ways of biosciences towards  bringing affordable palliative and other treatment for cancer patients. Dinesh Dua CEO Nectar Life Sciences said that the emerging technologies in biotechnology were conducive to the growth of bioscience sector.    PUNJAB CHARTS NEW PATH ON MEDICAL TOURISM PUNJAB ALL SET TO HAVE LARGEST INTEGRATED ONLINE HEALTH INFRASTRUCTURE CONNECTING EVERY VILLAGE 104 SUCCESS BEING REPLICATED BY EVERY STATE  PUNJAB SIGNS MoU WITH INSCOL TO SET UP HEALTH CARE CENTERS OF EXCELLENCE IN PUNJAB US DOCTORS STRESS ON THE NEED OF EARLY PREVENTIVE MEASURES TO BE TAKEN TO CURE MAJOR DIESES GOVT. MEDICAL EDUCATION TO BE STRENGTHENED SAS NAGAR (MOHALI) OCTOBER 28:  Punjab today charted a new path of medical tourism with delegates in technical session of Health and Medical Care stressing the need for exploiting the potential with opening of Indo-Pak border on Attari side.            The delegates from all over the country and seven countries including Poland and Germany said that Punjab with highest per captia spending power has the greatest potential to expand state-of-art medical sciences institutes in the state.  They opined that with health infrastructure with Pakistan and Afagnistan crumbling, Punjab being the border state linked with land route through Attari was the best place to promote medical tourism in the country.  They demanded that on spot Visa facility would further give fillip to medical tourism and rapatued medical institutes were vying to set up medical centers in the border state.  The success story of 104 service was greatly debated and said that this service was being replicated in all other states           During one of sessions on Health Towards Better Access, the Punjab government today signed an MoU with Inscol to set up health care centers of excellence.  The MoU was signed by the Secretary Health Mr. Hussan Lal and Mr. Kuljeet Gujral Chairman Inscol.  Another MoU with UCLA for providing technical support in medical colleges was also signed.  Participating in the session Mr. Scott P.Ozanus, Deputy Chairman KPMG USA said that the US government spent about 17% of its GDP on medical healthcare as against India which was spending only 1% on healthcare.  He said that US was trying to reduce the cost of medical health treatment and increasing the quality of healthcare.  The US government was also trying to create and alignment between the physicians of the different hospitals.  Expressing his views Mr.William Dunne, Administrative Director of Emergency preparedness Safety and Security, UCLA Health system felt that primary healthcare in India should be strengthened and local pharmacies should also be managed by the experts.  Taking part in the deliberations, Dr. Sanjeev Puri, Senior Cardiologist, CVM Heart care Moline Illinois said that in India there was an urgent need to strengthen the medical education which was going down for want of any proper rules and regulations.  He appreciated the state government for providing free generic medicines to the patients and state government hospitals were also charging minimal from the patients.  Dr. Vikram Shan, Chairman Shelby Hospitals said that India was the cheapest in the world with regard to the cost of health care facilities being provided to the people.  He said that government hospitals including AIIMS and PGI were 100 times better than many others private health institutes in the country.  Mr. Daljit Singh President Forties Healthcare said that 55000 MBBS doctors pass out per annum in India which is much less as compared to the population of the country.  He said that adequate and appropriate atmosphere created in order to attract investments.  The session was moderated by Mr. Nilaya Verma Partner KPMG.  Winding up the discussion, Secretary Health Mr. Hussan Lal said that the Punjab government was determine to provide excellent research facilities, strong educational base and superior infrastructure lend impetus to the development of the life sciences and healthcare sectors in Punjab.  He said that the government has earmarked key areas including Medicity, New Chandigarh – which is spread over 258 acres for -- CABINET UNVEILS INVESTOR FRIENDLY DECISIONS MOVE AIMED AT BOOSTING INDUSTRIALISATION IN A BIG WAY STATE GOVERNMENT TO PREPARE A COMPREHENSIVE PACKAGE TO INCENTIVISE AND EXTEND FULL SUPPORT TO THE EXISTING INDUSTRY IN THE STATE CABINET GIVES NOD TO PROVIDE QUALITY POWER AT AFFORDABLE RATES TO PROSPECTIVE ENTREPRENEURS COMPOUNDING POLICY FOR THE REGULARISATIONS OF THE UNAUTHORISED MARRIAGE PALACES OKAYED GREEN SIGNAL TO ‘THE PUNJAB DEVELOPMENT OF TRADE AND INDUSTRIES ORDINANCE, 2015’ SPECIAL POLICY TO REHABILITATE 47 INDUSTRIAL UNITS OPERATING IN A MIX LAND USE ZONE/ RESIDENTIAL AREA APPROVED GIVES NOD FOR REVIVING 16 POSTS OF DATA ENTRY OPERATORS IN SOCIAL SECURITY DEPARTMENT GREEN SIGNAL TO ‘THE PUNJAB FOREST (GROUP-A) MINISTERIAL SERVICES RULES, 2015 Chandigarh, October 26-           The Punjab Cabinet today approved a major investor friendly initiative by extending fiscal incentives under the ‘Fiscal Incentives for Industrial Promotion (revised), 2013’ Policy to those units also which were located in industrial zones as per master plans with an investment of Rs 1 to 10 crore. Earlier this incentive was available only to those units which were located in industrial parks. A decision to this effect was taken by the Cabinet in its meeting held under the chairmanship of Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal here at Punjab Bhawan, this evening.           Disclosing this here today a spokesperson of the Chief Minister’s Office said that this step would be instrumental in giving fillip to small and medium scale industries.  The incentive policy was also changed to include the entire district of Ropar under Zone -I category instead of only Sri Anandpur Sahib Sub Division, entitling any future industry in entire district for higher incentives under the policy. In a bid to incentivise and extend full support to the existing industry in the state, the Cabinet asked the departments of Industries & Commerce and Investment promotion to prepare a comprehensive package in this regard and put forth in the next meeting of the Cabinet.            In another major decision, the Cabinet also gave go ahead to supply power at the effective rate of Electricity per unit (with utilisation factor of 50% or more) @ less than Rs 5 per unit (FCA extra) to those industrial units who intend to set up their units during Invest Punjab or who have already installed their units to avail ‘Fiscal Incentives for Industrial Promotion (revised), 2013’. Such prospective investors would be entitled for this incentive for five years from coming into commercial operations whereas those who have already begun such operations could avail this benefit for five years with effect from October 28, 2015.                The Cabinet also approved the ‘The Punjab Development of Trade and Industries Ordinance, 2015’ for the creation of fund to be utilised for the execution of several works for the purpose of development of trade, commerce and industry in the state such as development of industrial estates, focal points and industrial clusters being developed by the government, to provide infra structure to the trade and industry, financial incentives, grants, subsidies etc. to financial, industrial and commercial units besides developing and maintaining non polluted atmosphere in the local area. In order to meet the aforesaid purposes the state government would impose entry tax on the goods brought into the state. The rate on which the tax was to be imposed on different goods would be specified by the government from time to time.           On the request of various marriage palace owners which were not covered under the marriage palace regularisation policy of October 2012, would now get the benefit of this policy by paying additional compounding fees. They would be liable to pay all other charges as enshrined under the regularisation policy of 2012. The Cabinet also okayed to formulate a special policy to rehabilitate 47 industrial units operating in a mix land use zone/ residential area falling in villages Balongi, Daon, Badmajra, Ballomajra, Landran and Saneta within the jurisdiction of GMADA. As per the policy these industrial units would be shifted in designated zones of master plan of SAS Nagar (Mohali) or regional plan of GMADA from existing places within a time span of one and half years from the date of issue of notification. The owners of these units would purchase the land at their own level to shift their units for which they would be exempted from CLU, License Fee, EDC charges and Building plan approval fee (except labour cess). The owners of these units would have right to apply for industrial plots, if any, available with GMADA or PSIEC on fulfilling all the terms and conditions of the respective authorities. In another decision, the Cabinet also decided that the government employee seeking extension in service would be entitled to pay equivalent to his last drawn salary only. Such employees would not be eligible for any promotion and annual increment during the extended service period. The Cabinet also gave green signal to enactment of ‘The Punjab Forest (Group-A) Ministerial Services Rules, 2015 by repealing The Punjab Forest (Group-A) Ministerial Service Rules, 2004 thus bringing the posts of Deputy Director (Administration/ Planning), Budget &Accounts and Private Secretary (Group-A) and Administrative Officer within its preview.  The Cabinet also gave ex-post facto approval for the revival of seven posts of Senior Assistants, Accountant, database Administrator and network engineer in the office of Punjab Public Service Commission (PPSC). In a bid to streamline the work related to disbursement of Old age and Widow Pensions to the eligible beneficiaries across the state, the Cabinet also gave nod for reviving 16 posts of Data Entry Operators in the Social Security, Women and Child Development Department. It was also decided to create nine posts including District Social Security Officer, Superintendent Grade-II, senior assistant, Data Entry Operator and others in the Barnala district.    -------- Punjab to draft new policy to promote "Make in Punjab"-Sukhbir Badal  (SPV to come up by January 1st to maintain industrial focal points)  (Mode of check payments to labour deferred till December 31st)  (Asks industrialists to submit suggestions for resolution of their grievances)  (Excise department directed to offer all facilities and queries to industrialists online)  Chandigarh October 26 - Punjab Deputy Chief minister Mr Sukhbir Singh Badal today announced the State government will come up with a new policy under "Make in Punjab" to encourage the local industry thereby providing incentives for its growth. Presiding over series of meetings with the small scale and large scale industrialists of the state here at Punjab Bhawan today, Mr Badal stressed that the Punjab government was committed to attract setting up of new industries on one hand and revive the existing units on the other. "My sole aim is to provide congenial atmosphere, liberal policies and online facilities to the entrepreneurs for overall progress of the Punjab as well as generating job opportunities to youth," he emphasized. Empowering the industrialists' associations to develop and maintain existing focal points the Deputy Chief Minister informed that under new policy Special Purpose Vehicles (SPV) would be set up in each industrial area by January 1st. The SPVs would collect the taxes from the industrial units and spend it on the development of industrial areas. "This unique mechanism will certainly help in eliminating the various problems regarding provisioning of basic amenities and other facilities in focal points", he assured. Assenting to the demands of businessmen, Mr Badal announced that under existing labour rules payments to the industrial labour through cheques would be deferred by December 31 and alternative arrangements would be made in consultations with the labour department. In order to redress their genuine grievances, Deputy CM asked the excise and industry departments to constitute an advisory committee of small scale manufacturers to get their valuable suggestions. Exhorting the manufacturers to submit their suggestions he directed the Chief Secretary Sarvesh Kaushal to convene a meeting of this advisory committee of at the earliest to redress their grievances. Providing big relief to the industrialists Mr Badal announced that excise department would scrutinise assessment cases of tax payers pertaining to the last three years instead of five years and if any tax payer found at fault then scrutiny of five years taxes would be implemented. With a view to provide online facilities and all queries to the tax payers he asked them to upload their email ids on the departmental web portal. Announcing to provide VAT retention and power incentives even for expansion of existing units under new industrial policy Mr Badal said that State government has been formulating a new power policy in which existing units would also get cheaper power below Rs 5 per unit keeping in view their present consumption. Announcing to exclude steel industry from the negative list he also informed that exhibition halls at Ludhiana, Jalandhar and Amritsar would also be setup soon. He also advised the small scale entrepreneurs to pay lump-sum taxes by adopting "Rahat Scheme" that had already been implemented for the traders to end 'Inspector Raj' across the state. "The main aim behind the new scheme is to simplify the procedure of trade and business in the state,” he added. Present in the meeting Industry and Commerce Minister Mr Madan Mohan Mittal also announced that the different rules governing the industrial estates and focal points would be amalgamated thereby empowering the Punjab State Industry Development Corporation to administer the allottees. He also proposed to setup exclusive "Wood Park" at Anandpur Sahib in an area of about 200 acres to promote plywood and timber industry in Kandi areas. Prominent among other who were present in the meeting included Chief Parliamentary Secretary N.K. Sharma, Industry Advisors to CM Rajinder Gupta and Kamal Oswal, Chief Secretary Sarvesh Kaushal, Principal Secretary Housing, Labour and Forests Vishwajit Khanna, Principal Secretary to Deputy CM PS  Aujla, Secretary Industry and CEO Invest Punjab Anirudh Tewari, Financial Commissioner Taxation Anurag Aggarwal, MD PSIDC SR Laddhar, Special Principal Secretaries to Deputy CM Manvesh Singh Sidhu, Rahul Tewari and Ajay Kumar Mahajan. ----------- CM ANNOUNCES TO DEDICATE THREE IMPORTANT MEMORIALS TO THE NATION IN COMING YEAR REVIEWS THE PROGRESS OF SRI VALMIKI TIRATH, JANG-E-AZAADI AND PUNJAB STATE WAR HEROES MEMORIAL ASK OFFICERS TO EXPEDITE THE WORK FOR TIMELY COMPLETION OF THESE ICONIC PROJECTS Chandigarh, October 26-           Reiterating his firm commitment to perpetuate the glorious cultural heritage of the state, the Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today announced to dedicate three upcoming state-of-the art monuments Jang-e-Azaadi, War Heroes Memorial and Ram Tirath Temple to the nation in next year.           Presiding over a review meeting to monitor the pace of these ambitious projects here at the Chief Minister’s Office this morning, Mr. Badal underscored the need for expediting the work on these projects so that they could be completed within the stipulated time period. The Chief Minister said that these three iconic projects were of immense significance for the country in general and state in particular as each one of them has its own cultural and historical relevance.  He said that the state-of-the-art Museum cum Panorama center was coming up at Sri Valmiki Tirath in Amritsar, where Bhagwan Valmiki ji had created the great epic and masterpiece of Ramayana. Mr. Badal said that it was a matter of great pride and honor for the state government to offer humble tributes to Bhagwan Valmiki Ji by developing this site at a cost of Rs 180 crore for the devotees visiting this sacred place from every nook and corner of the world. He pointed out that new Temple which would be constructed at Sri Valmiki Ashram (Ram Tirath) would be an engineering marvel spruced with rare architecture, landscaping besides aesthetically designed. “This Temple will be unique monument in the sense that it will not only help in disseminating the philosophy of Bhagwan Valmiki Ji for carving out a harmonious society in the state but it would also act as a lighthouse to guide the destiny of our youth through the great ethical and moral values preached by him” he added. Reviewing the work of Jang-e-Azaadi memorial at Kartapur near Jalandhar, the Chief Minister said that that this mega project coming up a cost of Rs 250 crore would showcase the supreme sacrifices made by the Punjabis in the national freedom struggle. Mr. Badal said that that it was a real tribute to numerous unsung heroes of the national freedom struggle especially from the state, who made enormous contribution at the altar of the motherland.  He categorically said that there was no dearth of funds for these ambitious projects as the state government was duty bound to perpetuate the glorious history of Punjab for the coming generations. The Chief Minister also directed the officers to expedite the construction work on Punjab War Heroes Museum being constructed by the state government in Amritsar to highlight the sacrifices made by the Punjabis in Armed forces and showcase the gallantry spirit of Punjab. He said that this novel project was coming up in the holy city at a cost of Rs. 130 crore, to showcase the enormous contribution of brave Punjabis warriors and soldiers in safeguarding the integrity of our motherland. Mr. Badal asked the officers to strictly monitor the ongoing works so that timely completion of these projects could be ensured. Prominent amongst other present in the meeting included Principal Secretary to Chief Minister Mr. SK Sandhu, Principal Secretary (Finance) Mr. DP Reddy, Principal Secretary (Housing) Mr. Viswajit Khanna, Principal Secretary Tourism Mrs. Anjali Bhawra, MD PIDB Mr. A Venuprasad, Secretary Local Government Mr. Vikas Partap, Special Principal Secretary to Chief Minister Mr. Ajoy Kumar Sharma and CA PUDA Mr. Manvesh Singh Sidhu.     ---- CM FELICITATES PEOPLE ON PARGAT UTSAV OF BHAGWAN VALMIKI JI Chandigarh, October 26- Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today felicitated the people of Punjab on the auspicious occasion of Pargat Divas of 'Karuna Sagar' Bhagwan Valmiki ji.   In a message, the Chief Minister said that Bhagwan Valmiki Ji was the “Pitaamah” of Sanskrit language and first poet or the Adi Kavi of the world who by his immortal and masterpiece composition the “Ramayana” propagated the message of victory of good over evil. Mr. Badal also said that great epic has from centuries taught the way of life to the people and has been a lighthouse of the ethical and moral living for the people which were far more relevant in the present materialistic society.  He said that teachings of Bhagwan Valmiki Ji  lays stress on the equality in the society along with the ethics of what an ideal man, ideal ruler and ideal people should follow for the formation of an ideal state or society. Exhorting the people to follow the path and high ideals shown by Bhagwan Valmiki Ji so as to carve out an egalitarian society, the Chief Minister urged them to celebrate this sacred occasion collectively to further strengthen the ethos of peace, harmony, brotherhood and amity.  ------  SUKHBIR BADAL GREETS PEOPLE ON THE PARKASH UTSAV OF BHAGWAN VALMIKI JI  CHANDIGARH OCTOBER 26:              Punjab Deputy Chief Minister Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal today extended his greetings to the people of Punjab on the auspicious occasion of Parkash Utsav of Bhagwan Valmiki ji and emphasized the need of making concerted efforts for propagating the teachings and philosophy of Maharishi Valmiki Ji with a view to carve out a healthy society based on equality and social justice. In his message, the Deputy Chief Minister said that said that Bhagwan Valmiki Ji, the architect of first ever epic the holy 'Ramayana',  had  made Indian culture & civilization more broad based. Through Ramayana, Bhagwan Valmiki ji propagated the message of ideal life based on inherent values of righteousness to the society, he added Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal called upon the people to celebrate this sacred occasion collectively rising above the narrow considerations of region, religion and caste. **** ROTATIONAL IRRIGATION PROGRAMME FOR KHARIF SEASON ANNOUNCED CHANDIGARH, OCTOBER 26:              The Irrigation Department, Punjab has announced the Rotational Programme for irrigation for the current Kharif Season through Canal water up to October 31, 2015. The channels of Sirhind Canal System would run on the priority basis from Patiala feeder, Abohar Branch, Sidhwan Branch, Bathinda Branch and Bist Doab Canal Patiala feeder respectively.             Disclosing this here today a spokesman of the irrigation department said that the channels off taking from Ghaggar Branch and Patiala Minor in group 'B' being in the first preference will run to their indent. Balance water supplies available will be utilized in direct distributaries of Bhakra Main Line in Group A' respectively.             The spokesman further said that Abohar Branch off-taking from Sirhind Feeder and distributaries in Group "B" being in the First preference will run to their indent. Balance water supplies available will be utilized in direct distributaries of Sirhind Feeder and distributaries in Group "A" respectively.             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 Lowe and Sabraon Branch with their distributaries respectively.   ----------  CHUNNI LAL BHAGAT GREETS PEOPLE ON THE PARGAT DIVAS OF BHAGWAN VALMEKI JI CHANDIGARH OCTOBER 26 : Forest & wildlife and  labour minister Punjab today felicitated the people of Punjab on the auspicious occasion of Pargat Divas of 'Karuna Sagar' Bhagwan Valmik ji and exhorted them to follow his teachings and ideology to carve out an ideal society regardless of caste, colour and creed. In his message, Mr. Bhagat said that Bhagwan Valmeki Ji, the creator of first ever the great epic-'Ramayana' in Sanskrit was a great exponent of Indian culture & civilization. His masterpiece creation, 'Ramayana' is a great source of human values, culture and ethics for the entire. Bhagwan Valmeki ji propagated the message of love and ideal life based on morality to the society, said MrBhagat Mr. Bhagat called upon the people to celebrate this sacred occasion collectively   rising above the parochial considerations of caste, colour and creed to strengthen our brotherhood and amity. -----------  CHANDIGARH/AMRITSAR, OCTOBER 26               Sh. Suresh Arora, DGP, Punjab visited Amritsar where he paid obeisance at Sri Darbar Sahib and at Sri Durgiana Mandir today. After that he held a meeting of senior police officers of Border zone, including IGP Border, DIG Border, Commissioner of Police, Amritsar, SSPs of Pathankot, Gurdaspur, Batala, Amritsar (Rural) and Tarn Taran to take stock of the law & order situation. The DGP also visited Bathinda where he met Bathinda Zone police officers, including IGP Zone, DIsG Bathinda Range and Ferozepur Range and SSPs of Ferozepur, Fazilka, Moga, Faridkot, Bathinda, Mansa and Sri Muktsar Sahib. During these meetings in Amritsar & Bathinda, he was accompanied by Sh. Rohit Chaudhary, ADGP, Law & Order and Sh. RK Jaiswal, IGP, Intelligence. DGP, Punjab asked the field police officers to apprise him about the prevailing security situation, underlining causes and the solution thereto. He also listened to various problems being faced by the police force. The DGP directed the police officers to work honestly, professionally and with dedication with a view to minimize the gap between police and public and restore confidence of the citizens in the police so that they could help them in bringing normalcy and promoting communal harmony in society. ****         Startup accelerator churns out 16 startup ideas for Investor Summit ·        Punjab all set to become startup incubation zone  Chandigarh, October 26: Startup weekend conducted by Progressive Punjab in association with Startup Accelerator Chamber of Commerce resulted in churning out of 16 unique startup ideas that are set to make Punjab Startup Incubation Zone of the world.               The weekend, which was conducted from 23 October to 25 October, was conducted with a motive to put Punjab at a prominent position on the startup map of India by  Progressive Punjab at entrepreneur development center at EDC IT Park Chandigarh. The 54 hour duration event was inaugurated by Mr. Manjit Brar MD Milkfed and Joint CEO of Invest Punjab 2015 and Mr. Manipal Dhariwal, President SACC. The other dignitaries present at the launch were serial entrepreneur Mr. Nitin Monga-founder We Excel Software and CEO One School, Mr. Daljit Gujral-CEO Inscol Health, Mr. Balbir Singh, General Manager SIDBI.              The event started with fresh raw ideas on 23 October, in which more than 90 participants from all over Punjab were successful in making 16 good teams and develop some exceptionally good business ideas. On second, they prepared their business PPT with the help noted industry mentors introduced by SACC. These mentors, spent 2-4 hours with each team in helping build their business ideas and fine tune their pitches for the finals.              on day 3, each team practiced their tech checks of their presentations and they rehearsed their pitches in front of two senior officials and mentors from SACC Mr. Sumeer Walia-Director SACC (who has mentored over 150 startup aspirants, in last 3 years) and Mr. John Vestal from USA who is a-VP- networking engineering and architecture with pacnet and telstra, two world famous tech and telecom companies.              Both the officials took one to one pitching sessions, and critically examined and helped the flow of the pitches, its business sense, the MVP, the team coordination. With their help, the teams were seen more confident after gaining expert tips on further improving their business ideas.             In this program, various types of ideas have come forward from these 16 teams, some ideas are from: core engineering, from health care and innovation in health care, civic sense and hygiene, agriculture and organic farming, hyper local services, it and product development based ideas, finance and innovation in currency handling, glamour and bollywood  and a lot many more..  The finals will be held at Indian School of Business Mohali on 29th October, from where, 3 winning teams will be chosen with top rating ideas according to their business viability, practicality and execution. The three winning teams will be rewarded free working space and bandwidth sponsored by startup in a box and stpi. the rest of the teams will keep getting regular mentoring from SACC for fine tuning their business ideas and startup plans.  The event is supported by Progressive Punjab as main sponsor, Netsmartz IIC as the technology partner of SACC, SFS as knowledge partner, One School, Inscol Health, STPI and SIDBI.              On the other hand, the buzz created by this event, returned over 500 positive tweets in just 2 days on event hashtag #swpunjab, as reported by the event facilitator, Vineet Khurana. - CM MOURNS SAD DEMISE OF AJIT SINGH DEOL Chandigarh, October 25, 2015:           Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today expressed profound grief and sorrow over the sad demise of the veteran bollywood actor and younger brother of mega star Dharmendra, Mr. Ajit Singh Deol who passed away at Mumbai on Saturday.           In a condolence message, the Chief Minister said that with the death of Mr. Ajit Singh Deol, whose son Mr. Abhay Deol was also a film star, Punjab has lost a true son of soil who had made his presence felt in the tinsel world of Hindi as well as Punjabi film industry. He said that Mr. Deol would be ever remembered as a simple hearted person, who played a vital role in promoting Punjab, Punjabi and Punjabiat in every corner of the world.  Sharing his heart-felt sympathies with the members of the bereaved family, the Chief Minister prayed to the Almighty to give them courage and strength to bear this irreparable loss and grant peace to the departed soul.    SURESH ARORA JOINS AS NEW DGP ·       LISTS COMMUNAL HARMONY AND MAINTENANCE OF LAW & ORDER AS HIS TOP PRIORITY ·       SEEKS COOPERATION OF PUBLIC AND MEDIA TO RESTORE FULL NORMALCY AT THE EARLIEST ·       ASSURES TRANSPARENCY, FREE AND FAIR INVESTIGATION ·       DGP TO VISIT DIFFERENT PLACES IN THE STATE IN COMING DAYS Chandigarh, October 25:   Mr. Suresh Arora, new Director General of Police, Punjab today outlined communal harmony and maintenance of law & order in the state as his top priority and sought the full cooperation from public as well as from media in achieving the same. Interacting with media persons immediately after joining as DGP, Mr. Arora pointed out that he was taking over this responsibility at a crucial time and sought sometime to deliver what was being expected. He said that he was always open to everybody/organization and would soon visit the different places to interact with the people and his force. He said that it was our joint responsibility to ensure peace at every cost in the state. He assured that justice would be done with every aggrieved besides ensuring transparency, free and fair investigation in the incidents of sacrilege. He said that tomorrow he will visit Amritsar to pay obeisance at Sri Harmandir Sahib and Durgiana Mandir and meet the border zone officers. He appealed the agitating groups to keep in view the hardships being faced by common masses especially women and children. He once again reiterated that anybody having any grievance can approach him. He categorically said that the state police would not leave any stone unturned to bring to book the culprits of sacrilege of holy Sri Guru Granth Sahib.  -----------------  INFORMATION & PUBLIC RELATIONS DEPARTMENT PUNJAB  SURESH ARORA NEW DGP PUNJAB CHANDIGARH OCTOBER 25: The Punjab Government  appointed Mr. Suresh Arora as new DGP Punjab. The Orders has already been issued in this regard.  Disclosing this here today an official spokesman said that Mr. Sumesh Singh Saini, DGP has been posted as DGP-cum-Chairman, Punjab Police Housing Corporation. - Anti social elements vitiating atmosphere of Punjab will not be spared: Sukhbir Singh Badal attends Bhog of sri akhand path at village kotdharmu Appeals to the people to maintain communal amity and brotherhood Mansa, October 24:           Batting for the need to maintain perfect communal harmony and brotherhood in the state, the Deputy Chief Minister, Punjab, S. Sukhbir Singh Badal said that the anti-social elements responsible for the sacrilege of Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji, would not be spared and strictest possible action would be taken against them. S. Badal was attending Bhog of Sri Akhand Path held at Gurudwara Sulisar Sahib village Kotdharmu. While praying for peace and unity in the state, S. Badal also expressed deep anguish at the incidents of the sacrilege of Sri Guru Granth Sahib and said that these conspiracies are the handiwork of those elements who are jealous of the brotherhood and communal harmony and rapid development of Punjab. Addressing the media person on this occasion, he assured that the matter pertaining to the sacrilege of Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji would be thoroughly investigated from all angles and the persons behind guilty of committing this heinous crime would not be spared. He also said that the forces behind stoking the fires of fundamentalism and communalism would not succeed in their nefarious designs because Punjab has been a perfect model of communal harmony and the bonds of brotherhood binding people of all the religions are much too strong to be affected by the psyche and horrendous actions of such anti social persons. S Badal appealed to the people of the state to be wary of the designs of such anti social and communal forces. He exhorted the people not to react on rumours and exercise extreme restraint. He said that history stands testimony to the fact that whenever an outside power has made an attempt to vitiate the peaceful atmosphere of the state, it has to beat a retreat and the threads of brotherhood and peace of Punjab have emerged even stronger.             On this occasion, Rajya Sabha member Mr. Balwinder Singh Bhunder also appealed to the people of the state to keep intact the peaceful atmosphere, which has been the hallmark of the state. He expressed hope that the people would not fall prey to the evil designs of forces trying to create deterrence’s in the development of Punjab. On this occasion, MLA Mansa Mr. Prem Mittal, MLA Budhlada Mr. Chattin Singh Samao, Chairman District Planning Board Mansa Mr. Prem Arora, Chairaman District Planning Board Mr. Jagdeep Singh Nakai, Chairman PUNSEED, Punjab Mr. Sukhwinder Singh Aulakh, Deputy Commissioner Mansa Mr. Bhupinder Singh Rai, SSP Mansa Mr. Raghbir Singh Sandhu and others were also present. -------------- AGRICULTURE DEPARTMENT SIMPLIFIES NORMS FOR FARMERS TO GET WHEAT SEED SUBSIDY   Chandigarh October 24: The Director, Agriculture Department, Punjab, Mr. Gurdial Singh today said that the farmers of the state intending to get the certified seed of wheat on subsidy should only fill an application form and submit it to the Agriculture Department. There would be no need to attach land fard or any other land record with the application.           He said that instruction in this regard have been sent to the officers of the department. He said that the farmers only need to submit self-declaration along with the application in the agriculture department. If the farmers are encountering any difficulty in getting the certified seed of wheat then they should contact telephone number 0172-2970602, 2970609(fax) of the agriculture department and lodge a complaint. This number would be operational from 9AM to 5PM. He made it clear that this time the farmers would get the 50% share of the price seed or maximum Rs. 1000/- per quintal subsidy would be transferred directly into their accounts.He said that this subsidy would be given on priority to the farmers holding 2.5 acre of land. In case of left over subsidy, the facility of subsidy would also be extended to the farmers having five acre of land. He said that the Prescribed Performa / application form can be had from the newspapers of October 18th or October 22nd, 2015. Application in his regard should be attested by village Sarpanch/ Nambardar/ MC and submit their applications by 26 October, 2015 at Agriculture Office. He also appealed to the farmers to ensure while purchasing the certified seeds that not only are the seed manufacturers duly registered but the bills issued by them should also carry the batch no. and lot no. - Progressive Punjab investor summit warms up with start-up summit  Punjab turns it Start-up Fortress Brain storming by young energetic entrepreneurs to lay foundation of solid industrial revolution in Punjab Chandigarh, October 23: Progressive Punjab Investor Summit got to a warm up session with Invest Punjab in association with Start-up Accelerator Chamber of Commerce starting  Business Idea competition program as a part of  Start-up weekend Panjab that started today at EDC situated at IT park Inaugurating the weekend Mr. Manjit Singh Brar, Additional CEO Invest Punjab and MD Milkfed said that start up summit is as per the vision of the Deputy Chief Minister, Punjab, S. Sukhbir Singh Badal who has envisaged that Punjab should be employment generator rather than employment seeker. He informed that Start-up Weekend is a 54 hour of New Business Ideas marathon conducted on any given weekend, from Friday to Sunday. He said that Start-up Weekend Worldwide has been conducted in over 100 countries and has created over 15000 business Ideas and over 2000 Start-ups from them, some of them funded and running very successfully. He said that SACC is the regional partner for Start-up Weekend and Techstars USA. "SACC has already conducted 5 Start-up Weekends in North india, but nothing as massive and exciting as Start-up Weekend Punjab" Says entrepreneur and SACC President- Manipal Dhariwal. He further said that to motivate and guide the Youth of Punjab and North for their career development, Invest Punjab in Association with SACC is conducting the first ever Start-up Weekend Panjab at EDC IT Park-Chandigarh from 23rd-25th October 2015. It was informed that SACC, in last 4 weeks has conducted back to back sensitization sessions for the awareness of this prestigious program at the following Universities and Colleges and professional Hubs in Punjab:"We are expecting 15 teams this time and a very tough competition, both from students and professionals” says Sumeer Walia Director and co founder, SACC..who has lead the SACC team in conducting these sessions in Punjab. These sessions were conducted at: IIT ROPAR, PEC, ISB, MOHALI, THAPAR UNIVERSITY-PATIALA, THAPAR MANAGEMENT UNIVERSITY- DERA BASSI, CHITKARA UNIVERSITY, MBCT- FATEHGARH SAHIB, SUS TANGORI, PUNJABI UNIVERSITY, DAV COLLEGE CHANDIGARH, UIET-PUNJAB UNIVERSITY, QUARK CITY, IT PARK CHANDIGARH AND MOHALI ETC....Over 1500 students and professionals have been sensitized in just 4 weeks for this program, as result over 65 participants from all over have registered for this competition In is pertinent to mention here that over 65 aspiring entrepreneurs (students as well as professionals) will compete with their business ideas on 23rd October at EDC IT Park Chandigarh. They are mainly from Mohali, Chandigarh, Patiala, Nangal, Bassi Pathana, Rajpura, Fatehgarh Sahib, IIT-Delhi, Gurdaspur, Bathinda, ludhiana, Boston-usa, Phagwara, Panchkula, amritsar, Ambala, Dehradun etc... -----------   AGRICULTURE DEPARTMENT SIMPLIFIES NORMS FOR FARMERS TO GET WHEAT SEED SUBSIDY   Chandigarh October 23: The Director, Agriculture Department,  Punjab, today said that the farmers of the state intending to get the certified seed of wheat on subsidy should only fill an application form and submit it to the Agriculture Department. There would be no need to attach land fard or any other land record with the application.           He said that instruction in this regard have been sent to the officers of the department. He said that the farmers only need to submit self-declaration along with the application in the agriculture department. If the farmers are encountering any difficulty in getting the certified seed of wheat then they should contact telephone number 0172-2970602, 2970609(fax) of the agriculture department and lodge a complaint. This number would be operational from 9AM to 5PM. He made it clear that this time the farmers would get the 50% share of the price seed or maximum Rs. 1000/- per quintal subsidy would be transferred directly into their accounts.He said that this subsidy would be given on priority to the farmers holding 2.5 acre of land. In case of left over subsidy, the facility of subsidy would also be extended to the farmers having five acre of land. He said that the Prescribed Performa / application form can be had from the newspapers of October 18th or October 22nd, 2015. Application in his regard should be attested by village Sarpanch/ Nambardar/ MC and submit their applications by 26 October, 2015 at Agriculture Office. He also appealed to the farmers to ensure while purchasing the certified seeds that not only are the seed manufacturers duly registered but the bills issued by them should also carry the batch no. and lot no. -------    HOUSEFED PUNJAB REFUNDS Rs. 11 CRORE TO 192 ALLOTTEES Chandigarh, October 23:             The HOUSEFED, Punjab has returned Rs. 11 crores to it’s 192 allottees as part of a refund. The drafts to the beneficiaries in this regard have been issued.             Disclosing this, an official spokesperson said that the Punjab Government had given part time relief in connection with the registry on allotment rates of land/conveyance deed. In accordance with the relief granted, the HOUSEFED, Punjab has got the registry of co-operative housing complex, sector-79, Mohali (group-1 and 2) done on the allotment rates, which has resulted in the profit of Rs. 11 crore to the allottees. The spokesperson said that while 192 allottees have been given the amount due as refund in the form of draft, the other allottees would also be given the refund soon. -------------  PUNJAB SIMPLIFIES THE REGISTRATION PROCESS OF UPVAIDS- JOSHI Chandigarh, October 23: With a view to remove the hurdles being faced by the candidates for the registration of UpVaid course, the procedure for its registration has been simplified. Disclosing this, Mr. Anil Joshi Medical Education and Research Minister Punjab said that now onwards the registration of those candidates who have passed the eligibility test would be made on priority. He said that on the same basis candidates qualified from recognised institutions of other states would also be registered as UpVaid. In a press communiqué, Mr. Joshi said that it has been brought to his notice by various organisations that the candidates who have cleared the eligibility course from Punjab or other states were facing much difficulty in registration for the UpVaid. He said that considering their just demands sympathetically, the department has now decided to simplify the process. He said that as per the new instruction any candidate who have passed the UpVaid course from the instates affiliated to Faculty of Aurveda Punjab or Punjab State Board of Technical Education, there registration would be done by Board of Aurvedic and Unani System of Medicine. Likewise, candidates who passed eligibility course from registered Autonomous Institutions and who have appeared in the examination taken by Faculty of Aurveda Punjab or Punjab State Board of Technical Education, would also be registered as UpVaid. ----------- ANIL JOSHI ISSUES INSTRUCTIONS FOR THE CLEANLINESS OF HOLY CITY, AMRITSAR CHANDIGARH, OCTOBER 23: , Mr. Anil Joshi Minister for Local Bodies today issued strict instructions to the Municipal Corporation, Amritsar to launch  a cleanliness drive to clean Holy City Amritsar. Disclosing this in a press communiqué Mr. Anil Joshi said that Secretary of the Local Bodies Department has been directed to depute dedicated team of officers mentioning their names to ensure the cleanliness drive. Secretary has also been asked to put up a compliance report and progress on the cleanliness drive before him till November 6. “the work done by these officers in this direction would be marked in their annual confidential reports” said Mr. Joshi. The Minister said that Amritsar is such a religious place where lakhs of pilgrims come daily to pay obeisance at Sri Harimandir Sahib and Durgiana Mandir. Besides tourists from across the globe come here to visit the historical places like Jalliawala Bagh, Wahga Boarder etc. He said that Amritsar city lacks proper sanitation facilities and the heaps of garbage at various place of the city present unpleasant scenery. He said that considering the gravity of this problem department has been asked to set in place a team to ensure the cleanliness in the Amritsar city. ---------- Punjab Governance Reforms seek the details of IT Infrastructure from all the departments of the Punjab Government CHANDIGARH; OCTOBER 23 Punjab Governance Reforms department has sought the details of IT Infrastructure from all the Administrative Secretaries of the Punjab Government of their respective departments. While disclosing this a spokesman of the Punjab Governance Reforms said that a presentation would be held on October 28,2015 at headquarters of National Security Council Secretariat (NSCS), PMO, New Delhi regarding the IT infrastructure deployed in various Departments/Offices of the Punjab Government and the security measures taken for securing the infrastructure. He further said that a letter has been issued to all the administrative Secretaries and Deputy Commissioners of the Punjab Government in this regard. He said that they are asked to furnish the required details of Infrastructure installed at their respective department along with the other details of the project submit immediately so that it could be included in the presentation. --------- DEPARTMENTS INSTRUCTED TO HOIST UN FLAG ON UNITED NATIONS DAY CHANDIGARH, OCTOBER 23: The Punjab Government has instructed all the Departments to hoist the Flag of United Nations on October 24 i.e United Nations Day. Disclosing this, an Official Spokesperson said that as per the instructions received from the Union Home Ministry, the Flag of United Nations is to be hoisted along with the National Flag. According to the spokesperson, written instructions in this regard have also been issued to all the divisional Commissioners and Deputy Commissioners.   ---------- PUNJAB TO PROVIDE BUMPER SUBSIDY TO FARMERS FOR MICRO IRRIGATION                                                                                                                       Chandigarh October 23:  Punjab government will provide 50% bumper subsidy (maximum Rs. 22000/- per hectare) for laying underground pipes for irrigation to the farmers of the state.          Disclosing this here today an official spokesperson of the Punjab government said that for micro-irrigation (Drip Sprinkler irrigation System) 80% subsidy would be provided and besides this, the tube well connections would be provided by the government on priority basis.        He said that a further subsidy of 75% would be provided for installing solar pumps and water storage tanks for the purpose of micro-irrigation system to run with solar power. According to spokesperson, this has been done to ensure that the farmers should take full benefits of the initiatives announced by the state government. For more details log on www.dswcpunjab.gov.inand  farmers can contact the District Soil Conservator Officers. ----------- - to me   CM MOURNS SAD DEMISE OF AJIT SINGH DEOL Chandigarh, October 25-           Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today expressed profound grief and sorrow over the sad demise of the veteran bollywood actor and younger brother of mega star Dharmendra, Mr. Ajit Singh Deol who passed away at Mumbai on Saturday.           In a condolence message, the Chief Minister said that with the death of Mr. Ajit Singh Deol, whose son Mr. Abhay Deol was also a film star, Punjab has lost a true son of soil who had made his presence felt in the tinsel world of Hindi as well as Punjabi film industry. He said that Mr. Deol would be ever remembered as a simple hearted person, who played a vital role in promoting Punjab, Punjabi and Punjabiat in every corner of the world.  Sharing his heart-felt sympathies with the members of the bereaved family, the Chief Minister prayed to the Almighty to give them courage and strength to bear this irreparable loss and grant peace to the departed soul.   --- SURESH ARORA JOINS AS NEW DGP ·       LISTS COMMUNAL HARMONY AND MAINTENANCE OF LAW & ORDER AS HIS TOP PRIORITY ·       SEEKS COOPERATION OF PUBLIC AND MEDIA TO RESTORE FULL NORMALCY AT THE EARLIEST ·       ASSURES TRANSPARENCY, FREE AND FAIR INVESTIGATION ·       DGP TO VISIT DIFFERENT PLACES IN THE STATE IN COMING DAYS Chandigarh, October 25:  Mr. Suresh Arora, new Director General of Police, Punjab today outlined communal harmony and maintenance of law & order in the state as his top priority and sought the full cooperation from public as well as from media in achieving the same. Interacting with media persons immediately after joining as DGP, Mr. Arora pointed out that he was taking over this responsibility at a crucial time and sought sometime to deliver what was being expected. He said that he was always open to everybody/organization and would soon visit the different places to interact with the people and his force. He said that it was our joint responsibility to ensure peace at every cost in the state. He assured that justice would be done with every aggrieved besides ensuring transparency, free and fair investigation in the incidents of sacrilege. He said that tomorrow he will visit Amritsar to pay obeisance at Sri Harmandir Sahib and Durgiana Mandir and meet the border zone officers. He appealed the agitating groups to keep in view the hardships being faced by common masses especially women and children. He once again reiterated that anybody having any grievance can approach him. He categorically said that the state police would not leave any stone unturned to bring to book the culprits of sacrilege of holy Sri Guru Granth Sahib.

Farmers to get wheat seed at 50 % Subsidy

Efficient supply of fertilizers/ manure will be ensured during the Current Rabi season

Interested farmers for getting subsidized wheat seeds could submit their applications by 26 October

Chandigarh, October 21: The Punjab Government has decided to provide certified seed of wheat for Rabi sowing at 50% subsidy. As such, interested farmers could submit their requisition applications by 26 October,2015 at Agriculture Office  .

Disclosing this here an official spokesperson of the Agriculture department  said that to facilitate the farmers, state govt. has ensured all requisite arrangement to provide wheat seed at subsidized rates.He said that subsidy equals to the 50 % of total cost of seeds or to a maximum of Rs. 1000 per quintal will be directly transferred to the bank account of the applicant farmer and subsidy on wheat seed will be provided for maximum of 5 acre area. He said that priority for providing subsidized seeds will be given to farmers having 2.5 acres area, than after farmers having cultivable area 5 acres will get the subsidized seed. Thereafter remaining seeds will be provided to the farmers having cultivable area more than 5 acres. He said that to get the subsidized wheat seed, Performa as prescribed can be downloaded from department’s website i.e. www.agripb.gov.in Application in his regard should be attested by village Sarpanch/ Nambardar/ MC. He said that for efficient distribution of subsidized wheat seeds, each block will have five centers, the number of which could be increased if felt so. He said that Block Agriculture Officer will issue the permits only to the eligible farmers. He said that the eligible applicants will get permit from the concerned block agriculture office by 30 October. In case if application received are more in numbers than there will be draw for deciding the issuance of permits. The entire draw will be carried put under video-graphy.

        He said that subsidy will be provided to the farmers on certified seeds i.e. HD 3086, PBW677, WH1105, HD2967, PBW621, DBW17, PBW550, PBW658, PBW590, PBW 660 & PBW644. He  said that sufficient supply of manure & urea will be ensured during the season.

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MAJITHIA GREETS THE PEOPLE ON THE OCCASION OF DUSSEHRA

 Chandigarh, October 21:

                                              Punjab Revenue & Public Relations Minister Mr. Bikram Singh Majithia today felicitated the people of state on the occasion of Dussehra festival which symbolizes the triumph of good over evil.

 In a message, Mr. Majithia said that Dussehra also signifies the power of ethical and moral values cherished deeply in our society and and unites the people in a spirit of brotherhood and amity. The celebrations are an inspiration for us to follow the path of righteousness, he added.

Exhorting the people to celebrate the festival with gaiety and enthusiasm, Mr. Majithia said that may this festival usher in peace, prosperity and happiness for all.

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 PUNJAB DECIDES TO PAY FULL SALARY TO NEWLY APPOINTED MEDICAL OFFICERS

CHANDIGARH, OCTOBER 21: The Punjab Government today decided to pay full salary to newly appointed 404 medical officers.

Divulging information Health and Family Welfare Minister Surjit Kumar Jiyani said that health department recently appointed 404 medical officers on regular basis on basic salary according to notification issued on 15 January 2015 regarding two year basic pay for the newly appointed Government employees. He said that due to this notification many newly appointed doctors refused to join service after receiving the appointment letter from health department.

He further said that the Punjab Government partially amended the service rules applicable in the Government Departments regarding direct recruitment. A notification to this effect was issued under which those government officials and officers would get full pay scale, whose recruitment advertisement was issued before 15th January, 2015. In such cases, the directions of 15th January,2015 would not be applicable.

Mr. Jayani appealed to the all doctors who earlier had not joined till now should join immediately.

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CM EXHORTS RANK AND FILE OF SAD-BJP ALLIANCE TO THWART ANY ATTEMPT TO DISTURB HARD EARNED PEACE OF STATE

·          TERMS THAT SOME FORCES BOTH FROM WITHIN AND OUTSIDE THE COUNTRY WANT TO PUSH PUNJAB BACK TO BLACK DAYS

·          COMES DOWN HEAVILY ON PARTIES TRYING TO SCORE POLITICAL MILEAGE ON THE SACRILEGE ISSUE

·          RESIGNATIONS AIMED AT GAINING POLITICAL DIVIDENDS

·          PSYCHE OF EVERY SIKH BRUISED BY THIS DASTARDLY ACT

·          VOWS TO EXPOSE THE PERPETRATORS OF THIS HEINOUS CRIME

·          PRAYS FOR PEACE AND HARMONY AT TAKHT SRI KESGARH SAHIB

Sri Anandpur Sahib (Rupnagar), October 21-

          Terming that some forces, both from within and outside the country, inimical to peace and prosperity of state from were hell bent upon disturbing its hard earned peace, the Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today exhorted the rank and file of SAD-BJP alliance to work zealously for thwarting any such attempt.

Addressing the gathering after the bhog of Sri Akhand Path Sahib as repentance over the outrageous acts of desecration of Sri Guru Granth Sahib ji in different places of the state here at Takht Sri Kesgarh Sahib, the Chief Minister said that those forces who had always been wary of the peace and progress of state were highly active these days and their sole motive at point of time was to destabilize the SAD-BJP alliance government, which was a hindrance to any such move. He said under a deep rooted conspiracy efforts were being made to disturb the peace and communal harmony in the state thereby destabilizing the alliance government in the state. Mr. Badal said that it was a high time that all the leaders of the alliance must come forward and make the people aware about the nefarious designs of such forces to foil their attempts.

Chalking out a detailed program for leaders and workers of alliance, the Chief Minister impressed upon them to organize Akhand paths at village/ town level and pray for the peace and brotherhood in the state. He said that the hardworking and resilient workers of alliance have always been custodians of peace, amity and communal harmony in the state and hoped that this tradition would be upheld by them in this current scenario also. “I am sure every one of you will thwart any attain attempt aimed destabilizing peace and tranquility in the state” added Mr. Badal.

          Coming down heavily on the people trying to get political mileage out of the dastardly act of sacrilege of Sri Guru Granth Sahib ji, the Chief Minister while on one hand the psyche of every Sikh was tormented due to this inhuman crime but on the other some people were trying to score brownie points by unleashing malicious propaganda against the state government. He said that the protest and forcible closures of markets organized by some forces were of no use as they harassed the general public, who had to suffer a lot because of it. “In the same manner some political leaders have resigned from their posts just to score political mileage, which is unfortunate” added Mr. Badal.

The Chief Minister said that the sacrilege incidents in the state have hurt the psyche of every Sikh so much so that it could not be explained in words. Terming that it was an intolerable offence, Mr. Badal said that he was personally peeved over this heinous incident took place. He said that as the Chief Minister of state he was having a huge responsibility due to which he paid obeisance at Sri Harmandir Sahib, Amritsar to pray for peace, communal harmony and brotherhood in the state.

The Chief Minister said that some forces had always wanted that troublesome conditions must prevail in state but the alliance had always worked for peace ensuring peace and communal harmony. He said that we were very proud that Punjab was most peaceful state despite of hostile border but unimaginable things had happened in past few days resulting in very critical condition for state. Mr. Badal said that forces who want to push Punjab back to black days were active so people must support the alliance government to crush their ugly head. “Police or state government can never achieve all this without the support and cooperation of general public” he added. 

Reiterating that the perpetrators of this heinous crime would be brought to book and dealt sternly, the Chief Minister said that the Police had nabbed the culprits behind five out the seven incidents of sacrilege. He said that the remaining two would be cracked soon and exemplary punishment would be ensured to those who have committed this crime. However Mr. Badal bemoaned that those people who were duty bound to maintain dignity of Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji had been found indulged in this crime.

On the occasion, Jathedar Takht Sri Kesgarh Sahib Giani Mal Singh performed 'Ardas'.

Prominent amongst others who spoke on the occasion included Cabinet Ministers Dr. Daljeet Singh Cheema and Mr. Madan Mohan Mittal, Lok Sabha MP Prof. Prem Singh Chandumajra and former Minister & MLA Bibi Jagir Kaur.

Apart from these dignitaries, Chief Parliamentary Secretaries Chaudhary Nand Lal, Bibi Mohinder Kaur Josh and Mr. N.K. Sharma, MLAs Bibi Jagir Kaur and Jathedar Surinder Singh Bhullewal Raathan besides Deputy Commissioner Rupnagar Ms. Tanu Kashyap and SSP Rupnagar Mr. Varinder Pal Singh were also present on the occasion.

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 PUNJAB NOTIFIES NEW CASHLESS INSURANCE SCHEME FOR EMPLOYEES AND PENSIONERS

· ENROLMENT OF EMPLOYEES IN ALL DEPARTMENTS BEGIN

· ALL EMPLOYEES TO BE PROVIDED 3 LAC CASHLESS INSURANCE

· SCHEME TO BE OPERATIONAL FROM JAN 1,2016

· FIXED MEDICAL ALLOWANCE TO CONTINUE FOR ROUTINE OPD EXPENDITURE

Chandigarh, October 21 : The Punjab Government today notified Cashless Health Insurance scheme to be known as Punjab Government Employees and Pensioner Health Insurance Scheme ( PGEPHIS) to cover indoor medical treatment expenses, specified day care procedure and treatment of chronic disease as specified or to be specified by the Government .According to official spokesman this scheme will be applicable to all Government employees (whether covered under old or new pension scheme ) and pensioners on compulsory basis.

However, the scheme will be optional for All India Service officer, serving and ex MLA’s , serving and ex-judicial officers including judges of Punjab and Haryana High Courts . The premium of the main member as well as dependent (s) will be paid by the State Government, the spokesman added.

He clarified that in case husband and wife both are in Punjab Government job or one of them is retired from the Punjab Government , either one of them is eligible for the scheme. However, in case any employee/pensioner is taking medical reimbursement from the other source, he or she will not be eligible under this scheme.

He said that PGEPHIS will cover all the entitlement as specified under the State services rule 1940 this scheme will insure cashless all in door medical treatment, pre or post hospitalisation specified as defined, day care procedure requiring less than 24 hours hospitalisation and OPD medical expenses relating to chronic disease up to a some of Rs. 3 lac per family per year on floater basis. Medicines for chronic disease is also available on cashless basis from designated stores and hospitals in every district and block. All pre existing disease will be also covered.

He further said the treatment can be taken any enrolled beneficiary in Government or empanelled hospitals of Punjab , Chandigarh and NCR areas Gurgaon, Noida and Delhi. No reimbursement will be available to employee/pensioner in the Punjab,Chandigarh and Punchkula where cashless treatment is available . However, reimbursement will be taken by employee/pensioner for medical treatment taken in any other State in India in exceptional circumstances the insurance company will reimburse the bill of employee up to 3 lac as per the package rate defined under the scheme.

Divulging more he said that since the cashless medical treatment is made available to employee/pensioners through insurance company. There are certain treatments which are not covered under health insurance as per the Insurance Regulatory and Development .Authority of India (IRDA) details of such exclusions are available in the scheme uploaded on website of the health department of Punjab www.pbhealth.gov.in. The reimbursement of such exclusion will be made available to employee/pensioners as per existing policy and States service Rule 1940 as amended from time to time.

He said that any treatment taken abroad will not be covered under this scheme, any public servant/pensioners will have take overseas insurance covered before going abroad. Premium of such insurance cover will be borne by employee/pensioner. If any public servant is going on Government tour, premium of such overseas insurance will be borne by the employee pensioner.

Giving more information he said that the State Government selected Oriental Insurance Company through tendering .The insurance company will make buffer of Rs. 25 crore for meeting out expenses over and above Rs. 3 lac and cashless insurance to any employee/pensioner will be available beyond Rs. 3 lac subject to the availability of the buffer.

Spokesman said that enrolment under the scheme will start from immediate and will be completed by 31 December 2015 and the benefit under this scheme will start from 1 January 2016 to 31 December 2016 initially. Every employee/pensioner will ensure his/her enrolment along with dependents before 15 December 2015 and the insurance company to give enrolled insurance card up to 31 December 2015.

He said that the employees/pensioner will be entitled for fixed medical allowance as per the existing pattern to cover the routine OPD expenditure. Any employee/pensioner can take any kind of information related to as Punjab Government employees and Pensioner Health Insurance Scheme ( PGEPHIS) and also registered its complaint at medical help-line number 104.A similar scheme can be adopted boards, corporations and public sectors under taking of Punjab Government for its employee and pensioner in consultation with the State Government in Finance department

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BADAL GREETS PEOPLE ON DUSSEHRA AND DURGA PUJA

Chandigarh, October 21-

The Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today felicitated the countrymen especially the Punjabis living in country and abroad on the auspicious festival of Dussehra and Durga Puja.

In a message, Mr. Badal said that these two festivals surpass communal barriers and provide an opportunity to the people to reinforce their bonds of brotherhood, amity and goodwill.  Our nation has an age old tradition of celebrating Dusshera and Durga Puja that symbolizes the triumph of good over evil and shows us the way of ideal and virtuous living to carve out a healthy and harmonious society.

The Chief Minister appealed the people to celebrate this joyous occasion collectively with religious fervor and gaiety rising above of the parochial considerations of caste, creed and colour. 

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SUKHBIR BADAL GREETS PEOPLE ON THE EVE OF DUSSEHRA

 Chandigarh, October 21: Punjab Deputy Chief Minister Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal today greeted the people of the state on the eve of Dussehra, also known as Vijaydashmi.

In his greetings, Deputy Chief Minister said Dussehra reminds people of the universal truth of virtue triumphing over darkness. "The festival of Vijaydashmi strengthens our belief in the inevitability of the victory of righteousness over evil", Mr. Badal said.

He said the festivals are a glorious heritage of the pluralistic ethos of Punjab, which further strengthens the spirit of harmony and tranquility among various segments of the people. Deputy Chief Minister urged the people of the state to celebrate the festival with traditional gaiety and fervor, continuing fraternity, harmony and love for each and every one.

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 Sukhbir Badal advocates formation of Industry Inspections Bureau to facilitate industrialists

(No labour Inspector to visit industries from January)

 (Comprehensive labour management system to be in place by December 31st)

(Deputy CM reviews arrangements of 2nd Progressive Punjab Investment Summit)

 Chandigarh October 21 – Adding feathers in the cap for ease of doing business in the state Punjab Deputy Chief Minister Mr Sukhbir Singh Badal today advocated the proposal to establish "Bureau of Industry Inspections" on the lines of Invest Punjab to free the industrialists from the clutches of "Inspector Raj" in Punjab.

Presiding over a high level meeting with administrative secretaries to oversee the arrangements of 2nd Progressive Punjab Investment Summit at SAS Nagar, Deputy Chief Minister mooted the proposal to setup Industry Inspections Bureau so that all clearances regarding inspections of industrial units and annual assessments could be regulated through one administrative authority. He categorically said "I desire that Punjab should be an 'inspector free' state by December 31 and entrepreneurs can do their businesses with free mind and without any tension from frequent inspections".

Reviewing the proposals to do away with various inspections and provisioning of online facilities by various departments Mr Badal directed that in case of any complaint or otherwise mandated by central government rules, the inspector would visit the industry only with prior approval of Labour Commissioner. "No Boiler Inspector will visit the factory unless invited for annual inspection by the concerned firm and with prior approval of authority", he added.

To facilitate the ease of doing business Deputy CM asked all the departments especially Labour, Forests, Pollution Control Board, Industry department and PSPCL to update their portals and put all relevant information regarding inspection procedure, online filing of applications, e-payments of fees and timeline for application approval in the public sphere. 

Elaborating the facilities proposed by industry and labour department Chief Secretary Mr Sarvesh Kaushal informed that 'Comprehensive Labour Management Computerised System' would be implemented by December 31 to provide submission of self-certification of documents, joint inspections under various acts, validity of factory licences for five to 10 years, third party inspection of units and timeline for inspection reports.

Among others present in the meeting included Media Advisor Jangveer Singh, Additional Chief Secretary Revenue Karan Avtar Singh, Principal Secretary to Deputy CM PS Aujla, Principal Secretary Housing, Labour and Forests Vishwajit Khanna, Principal Secretary Governance Reforms G. Vajralingam, Secretary Industry and CEO Invest Punjab Anirudh Tewari, Financial Commissioner Taxation Anurag Aggarwal, Secretary Additional CEO Invest Punjab DK Tewari, Secretary Power A. Venu Prasad, Chairman PSPCL KD Choudhary, Special Principal Secretaries to Deputy CM Manvesh Singh Sidhu, Rahul Tewari and Ajay Mahajan. EOM

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PUNJAB CONSTITUTES SUB COMMITTEE FOR ADMINISTRATION OF PUNJAB AMALGAMATED FUND

Chandigarh, October 21: The Punjab Government has constituted a Sub Committee for the Administration of Punjab Amalgamated Fund under Rajya Sainik Board.

 An official spokesman of the Punjab Government said that the Principal Secretary/Secretary to the Government of Punjab, department of Defence Services Welfare would be Chairman of the committee.

         Other members who have been inducted in the committee included,  representative of Kendrya Sainik Board, New Delhi, representative of HQ Western Command, Chandimandir, two nominated ESM, Cmde Mr. AK Puri (Retd.) Principle from Thapar Polytechnic College, Patiala and Mr. Jaswant Singh Khokhar . Secretary Rajya Sainik Board would has been made the Member Secretary of the committee.

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PRESS NOTE

CHANDIGARH, OCTOBER 21:

                    Dr. Charajit Singh Atwal, Speaker  Punjab  Vidhan Sabha was honoured in Mission City of Canada by the NRI's belonging to Pandher Kheri and Siar of Payal Constituency.  Prominent personalities Jagdish Singh Pandher Kheri, Balwinder Singh, Ex-Sarpanch Ber Kalan, Gurdeep Singh, Amrinder Singh, Gurjeet Singh, Sukhjeet Singh Uppal and Balbir Singh Chingiara and Akali Leader in Canada were present on this occasion. Jagdish Singh while welcoming Dr. Atwal expressed happiness that the voters of Payal Constituency had elected such a dynamic personality, who had become speaker of Punjab Legislative Assembly for the 2nd time. He had also served as a Deputy Speaker of Lok Sabha.   Dr. Atwal is known at International level as he had been again nominated Regional Representative of India Region of the Executive Committee of Commonwealth Parliamentary Association, London, UK.  The nomination is a great honour not only for the people of Punjab, but for the whole Legislators'; fraternity of India who look upon Dr. Atwal as a Parliamentarian-Par-excellence.  The political experience, administrative acumen, intellectual outlook and active participation and keen interest shown in the activities of CPA by Dr. Atwal has earned him various International Positions in the past also.  He was elected as Vice Chairman of Executive Committee of CPA in 2001.  He was also nominated as Member of Sub Committee of International Program Planning of Commonwealth Parliamentary Association added S. Jagdish Singh.

                   Dr. Atwal while thanking the organizers said that Payal had given me the opportunity to serve the constituency with the blessings of residents of Payal. Recently foundation stone of ITI college in the name of Baba Maharaj Singh Rabo Uchi, Maloud, had been laid by S. Parkash Singh Badal, Hon'ble Chief Minister of Punjab.  In addition to this for the convenient of Payal residents, Judicial Complex (Sub Division Payal) already working. Panjab Cabinet declared Maloud new block which is an historical achievement of the pupil of Payal and to open a nursing college at Village Jarg, approval had already been got an other achievement.

                   Dr. Atwal appealed to the NRI's settled in abroad to contribute for the upliftment of primary education in the villages of Punjab which is primary need of today, so that education base of the primary students be made strong for their betterments.

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CM PRAYS FOR PEACE, BROTHERHOOD AND AMITY IN THE STATE

PAYS OBEISANCE OF SRI HARMANDIR SAHIB

VOWS TO EXPOSE FORCES INIMICAL TO PROGRESS OF STATE

URGES PEOPLE TO UPHOLD ETHOS OF PEACE, COMMUNAL HARMONY AND BROTHERHOOD

Amritsar, October 17-

          Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today paid obeisance at Sri Harmandir Sahib and offered prayers for peace, communal harmony, brotherhood and amity in the state.

          The Chief Minister accompanied by Cabinet Minister Dr. Daljeet Singh Cheema reached Sri Darbar Sahib in morning today and offered his prayers for the sake of peace, harmony and tranquility in the state. On the occasion, Mr. Badal was offered a siropa at the sanctum sanctorum. He later visited Sri Akal Takht Sahib and paid reverence at the highest temporal seat of the Sikhs.

          Interacting with the media persons on the sidelines of his visit, the Chief Minister said that he had always prayed for the peace, progress and brotherhood in the state and prosperity of its people. He said that today’s visit was also a part of his faith in this highly revered place of the Sikhs, from where each one of them derive divine peace and power. Mr. Badal said that he had always been a votary of peace and brotherhood in the state and would continue to endeavor for it throughout his life.

          Replying to another query, the Chief Minister said that some forces inimical to the progress of state were hell bent upon destroying the hard earned peace of the state. However, he said that the state government was committed to thwart any such attempt, which could pose a danger to the progress and prosperity of the state. “These forces will be exposed before the people so that they are not able to succeed in their nefarious designs against the state” added Mr. Badal.

          The Chief Minister called upon the people of the state to rise above the parochial considerations of caste, religion and creed to give a befitting reply to the fissiparous forces active in the state. Reiterating that Punjabis have always upheld the ethos of peace and brotherhood in the state, he hoped that no one would be ever able to destroy the deep knitted social fabric of the state. Mr. Badal urged the people to extend fulsome support and cooperation to government by not falling prey to the malicious campaign unleashed by the divisive forces.

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ALL DEPARTMENTS TO USE DIGITAL INDIA LOGO

CHANDIGARH, OCTOBER 17:

The Punjab Government has issues instruction to all departments to use Digital India Logo on all govt e-platforms.

According to an official spokesperson, the Punjab Government is marching rapidly on the road to ensure the success of Digital India Mission by adaptation of modern technology in day to day functioning of the Government.

He said that a copy each of the Digital India Logo, the Digital India Book, the Brochure on product and services, the e-Governance Policy Initiatives and the Electronics Development Fund (EDF) policy document, which were launched/ released by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, are available at digitalindia.gov.in/whats-new.

            According to the spokesperson, intimation has been sent to all the Additional Chief Secretaries, Financial Commissioners, Heads of the Department, Principal Secretaries, Divisional Commissioners and Deputy Commissioners to instruct the officials of their respective department to use the Digital India logo on all government e-platforms.

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CM CONSTITUTES JUDICIAL COMMISSION TO PROBE THE SACRILEGE INCIDENT OF SRI GURU GRANTH SAHIB JI

HC JUDGE JUSTICE (RETD.) ZORA SINGH TO HEAD THE COMMISSION

CM THANKS PEOPLE FOR PEACEFUL ‘PUNJAB BANDH’

VOWS TO BRING THE CULPRITS OF THIS HEINOUS INCIDENT TO BOOK

SEEKS SUPPORT AND COOPERATION FROM THE PEOPLE TO FOIL MISCHIEVOUS ELEMENTS TO DISTURB PEACE

 Chandigarh, October 15-

The Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today constituted a Judicial Commission headed by Justice (Retd.) Zora Singh of Punjab and Haryana High Court to probe the incident of sacrilege of Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji in Faridkot district and its aftermath.

Disclosing this here today Advisor to Chief Minister on National Affairs and Media Mr. Harcharan Bains said that, the Commission has been mandated to ascertain the causes and circumstances which led to this incident and its subsequent fallout to get into the bottom of the entire case. The Commission would conduct an enquiry into the sacrilege of Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji in Faridkot district and enquire into the incident of firing at Kotkapura on October 14, 2015 besides look into the matter of firing at village Behbal district Faridkot, which led to the death of two persons.

Meanwhile, the Chief Minister profusely thanked the people of the state for upholding ethos of peace, communal harmony, tolerance and brotherhood by ensuring complete peace during the 'bandh’ in the state.  

In a statement issued here today, the Chief Minister expressed gratitude to the people for exercising exemplary restraint, dignity and calm during the bandh, reposing full faith in the democratic values. Reiterating the firm commitment of state government to maintain the hard earned peace in the state, he said that no one would be allowed to vitiate the congenial atmosphere in the state or derail the process of development and prosperity. Mr. Badal exhorted the people to maintain peace, amity and communal harmony at all costs as preached by our great gurus, saints, seers and prophets.

The Chief Minister also vowed that all the culprits involved in the heinous incident of desecration of Sri Guru Granth Sahib ji in a village of Faridkot district would be brought to book besides ensuring exemplary punishment to them. Mr. Badal recalled that the state government has already constituted a Special Investigation Team (SIT) under Additional Director General of Police (ADGP) with two DIGs as its members to get into the bottom of the case. He made a fervent appeal to the people not to fell prey to nefarious designs of fissiparous forces, who were hell bent upon to thwart the peaceful environment in the state this pushing the state back to the turbulent times.

Seeking wholehearted support and cooperation from the people, the Chief Minister called upon them to foil such mischievous attempts of these anti-national elements to exploit the sentiments of innocent people through creating a sectarian wedge amongst them, in future.

The Chief Minister described the sacrilege of Sri Guru Granth Sahib ji as a 'grievous sin and a crime against humanity' and said that all the people of Punjab have been deeply hurt over the shocking incident. "They want the criminal culprits to be given an exemplary punishment. The SAD-BJP alliance government is committed to ensuring that the guilty do not escape the long arm of law and are given punishment that serves as a deterrent to all such elements in future also" said Mr. Badal. 

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 PUNJAB CONSTITUTES BOARD OF GOVERNORS OF THE BABA HIRA SINGH BHATTAL INSTITUTES OF ENGINEERING

Chandigarh, 15 October: The Punjab Government has constituted the board of Governors of the Baba Hira Singh Bhattal Institute of Engineering and Technology, Lehragaga .

       Disclosing here today an official spokesman of the Government said that Technical Education Minister would be Chairman Ex-officio and Principal Secretary to the Government of Punjab Department of Finance or his representative not below the rank of joint Secretary  would be the member. He said that similarly Principal Secretary to the Government of Punjab Department of Finance or his representative not below the rank of joint Secretary ,Principal Secretary to the Government of Punjab Department of Industries and commerce or his representative not below the rank of joint Secretary ,Director Technical Education and Industrial Training or his representative not below the rank of  additional director, Sh. Sunil Singla, Sh. Parveen Jain ,one representative of faculty by rotation to be nominated by the Principal Dr. Satish Kansal associate Professor Electrical Engineering  ,One representative of National Council of Vocational Training ,One representative State Board of Technical Education Industry Training would be members of the board.  He further said that Principal Baba Hira Singh Bhattal Institute of Engineering and Technology, Lehragaga would be member Secretary of the board.

           He said that this board will be constituted for the next three years.

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SAMANA NOTIFIED AS CLASS 1 MUNICIPAL COUNCIL 

CHANDIGARH, OCTOBER 15:

The Punjab Government has notified Nagar Council Samana as Class I Municipal Council. It was disclosed by an Official Spokesperson of the Local Government Department of Punjab.

The spokesperson said that Samana has now been included in list of Class I Municipal Councils of the state. He said that now Samana is 27th Class I Muncipial Council of Punjab.

PROMOTED PRINCIPALS OF GOVERNMENT COLLEGES ALLOTTED STATIONS

CHANDIGARH, OCTOBER 15:

The Punjab Government has allotted stations to the newly promoted principals of the Government colleges. Stating this, a spokesperson of the Higher Education Department said that the promoted Principals had sought choice stations from the Higher Education Minister, Punjab, Mr. Surjit Singh Rakhra following which the allotments have been made.

The spokesperson divulged that Savita Sharma has been appointed as Principal Government Shivalik College Naya Nangal, Jasbir Singh as Principal Government College Sunam, Poonam Jain as Principal Government College Dhudike, Harbans Lal as Principal Government College Amargarh, Gurcharan Kaur as Principal Government College Bhulath, Surjit Kaur as Principal Government Science and Research College Jagraon, Shaminderjit Singh as Principal Government College Kala Afghana, Parvinder Kaur (Economics) as Principal Government College Tanda Urmur, Parminder Kaur (Home Science) as Principal Government College Talwara, Ishtpreet Kaur as Principal Government College Mansa, Harminder Kaur as Principal Government College of Education Faridkot, Nutan Sharma as Principal Government College Tarn Taran, Vijay Kumar Khinder as Principal Government College Jandiala, Dharampal as Principal Government College Zira, Jaswant Singh as Principal Government College Nabha (after the retirement of current incumbent on 31st October), Sukhraj Singh as Principal Government College Faridkot and Harjot Singh Bhatia as Principal Government College Nial Patran.

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Chandigarh 14th October 2015

            National Iodine Deficiency Disorders Control Programme (NIDDCP) : As per directions of Health Minister Sh Surjit Kumar Jiyani, a State Level training under National Iodine Deficiency Disorders Control Programme was held under chairpersonship of Smt Vini Mahajan, Principal Secretary Health & Family Welfare, Punjab here today at Directorate of Health & Family Welfare, Punjab to sensitize about 21st October as "Global IDD Prevention Day`, to release the poster regarding the importance of iodized salt & ill effects of Iodine Deficiency  Disorders and to demonstratethe procedure of On Spot Salt Testing of Salt samples.  Thetraining was attended by DistrictMass Media Officers & BEEs ofIDD (Iodine Deficiency Disorders)  endemic district Amritsar, Tarn-Taran, Gurdaspur, Kapurthala, Jalandhar, Patiala, SAS Nagar, Roop Nagar. Dr H S Bali, Director Family Welfare, Sh Jasvir Bains, Program Co-ordinator, Smt Jaswinder Kaur, Mass Media Officer, Dr S P Surila, President SNEHA (NGO)  &other officers were also present.

            Sh Jasvir Bains said that NIDDCP is being effectively implemented in Punjab & a State IDD Cell & State IDD Lab has been established and is now fully functional. State specific Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) have been designed for salt & urine sample collection, transportation & testing in State IDD Lab, Chandigarh, which is first of its kind in India. He also made the participants aware about 20 questions booklet regarding importance of Iodized salt, IEC activities to be done upto block level on the occasion of 21st October as "Global IDD Prevention Day".  He demonstrated about the procedure of On spot Salt testing to be done by ASHA workers

            Speaking on the occasionDr Surila said that Iodine Deficiency Disorders are a worldwide major public health problem&more than 1.5 billion people all over the world are at risk of Iodine Deficiency Disorders. In 1962, Government of India launched National Iodine Deficiency Disorders Control Program.He added that Iodine Deficiency can lead to Goitre, Cretinism, Mental retardation, deafness, dwarfism and squint etc. He also told about the sources of Iodine.

Dr H S Bali, Director Family Welfare released the poster regarding 21st October "Global IDD Prevention day" so that field workers are sensitized about the importance of iodized salt & ill effects caused due to iodine deficiency. He appealed to all present that consistent efforts should be made to make common masses aware about the importance of iodized salt.

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SANDEEP KAURA APPOINTED AS HONORARY ADVISOR IN PUNJAB SKILL DEVELOPMENT MISSION

Chandigarh, October 15: The Punjab government has appointed Mr. Sandeep Singh Kaura as honorary Advisor in the Punjab Skill Development Mission.

Disclosing this here today, a spokesperson of the Punjab government said that the orders of Mr. Kaura’s appointment as honorary Advisor in the Punjab Skill Development Mission had been issued by the Department of Technical Education & Industrial Training.

It may be recalled that Mr. Kaura is serving as Joint Managing Director, Rayat and Bahra Group of Institutes.

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 ROTATIONAL IRRIGATION PROGRAMME FOR KHARIF SEASON ANNOUNCED

CHANDIGARH, OCTOBER 15:

            The Irrigation Department, Punjab has announced the Rotational Programme for irrigation for the current Kharif Season through Canal water from 16-10-2015 to 23-10-2015. The channels of Sirhind Canal System would run on the priority basis from Bathinda Branch, Bist Doab Canal, Sidhwan Branch, Abohar Branch and Patiala feeder respectively.

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

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

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

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CM ORDERS JUDICIAL INQUIRY INTO THE SACRILEGE OF SRI GURU GRANTH SAHIB JI

HIGH COURT JUDGE TO PROBE DASTARDLY ACT

BADAL EXHORTS PEOPLE TO BEWARE OF CANARDS AND FALSE PROPAGANDA SPREAD THROUGH SOCIAL MEDIA

Chandigarh, October 14-

          Punjab Chief Minister Parkash Singh Badal today strongly condemned the heinous sacrilege of the Sri Guru Granth Sahib ji at Bargari village in Faridkot district and ordered a judicial inquiry by a high court judge to probe the incident and its aftermath besides assuring Punjabis that exemplary punishment would be awarded to the perpetrators of this dastardly act.

          In a statement here, the Chief Minister described the desecration of Sri Guru Granth Sahib ji as a deep rooted conspiracy aimed at inciting communal tension and destabilizing the hard won peace in Punjab. He appealed to the people to be vigilant against such elements and keep calm despite the grave provocation.

          The Chief Minister assured the people of Punjab that all nefarious elements involved in this heinous crime against humanity would be brought to book and awarded exemplary punishment. He directed State police Chief to constitute a SIT under ADGP (Crime) IPS Sahota along with DIG Bathinda Range RS Khattra and DIG Ferozepur Range Amar Singh Chahal to track down and culprits immediately.

          Expressing deep anguish over this unpardonable act, the Chief Minister said Punjab and its people had passed through a harrowing time during a decade of turbulence and his government would not let the State go back to the dark days again at any cost. Mr. Badal also exhorted Punjabis to beware of canards and false propaganda spread by the anti-social elements through social media aimed at vitiating the congenial atmosphere of peace, communal harmony and brotherhood in the state to divide the society on sectarian lines. "I humbly urge all of you to keep restraint in this hour of crisis by displaying the ethos of religious tolerance, unity and brotherhood as preached by our great Gurus, saints and seers," he added.

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CM ENVISAGES US ENVOY'S SUPPORT IN FIELDS OF EDUCATION, HEALTHCARE, AGRICULTURE & FOOD PROCESSING, SOLAR ENERGY AND SKILL DEVELOPMENT

URGES HIM TO SEND A HIGH POWERED DELEGATION TO ATTEND INVESTORS SUMMIT

VERMA PATS STATE GOVERNMENT FOR TAKING SEVERAL DEVELOPMENT ORIENTED INITIATIVES

HIGHLY IMPRESSED BY PUNJAB BEING THE ONLY POWER SURPLUS STATE IN THE COUNTRY

ASSURES TO SOON TAKE UP THE ISSUE OF OPENING OF US CONSULATES IN JALANDHAR AND CHANDIGARH FOR THE CONVENIENCE OF PEOPLE

Chandigarh, October 14-

          Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today sought fulsome support and cooperation from the US ambassador Mr. Richard Verma in the field of education, healthcare, agriculture & food processing, solar energy and skill development thereby further strengthening the socio-economic ties between Punjab and US. 

          These views were expressed by the Chief Minister during a meeting with Mr. Verma, who called on him at his residence this evening. 

          The Chief Minister apprised Mr. Verma that there was huge potential of expansion in these sectors as the state government has focussed to develop these key areas on the top priority. He, however, said that US has proven technology and expertise in these vital sectors where Punjab could be immensely benefitted. Moreover, Mr. Badal said that Punjab has been rated number one by the World Bank for ease of doing business here, in one of its recent reports.

          Apart from this, the Chief Minister said that the state government has taken several investors friendly initiatives like Invest Punjab manned by a single person for ensuring prompt clearances to the interested entrepreneurs. He also sought US envoy's cooperation and support to send a high powered delegation of leading US industrialists , entrepreneurs and business heads to attend Investors Summit slated to be held at SAS Nagar (Mohali) on October 28-29. Mr. Badal informed him that the upcoming Medicity and Educity were swiftly emerging as medical and education hubs to provide the world class healthcare services and the state-of-the-art education facilities to the student right from kinder garden to university level to enable them to compete globally. He impressed upon Mr. Verma to motivate the US based leading entrepreneurs, industrialists and businessmen to make huge investments in the state.  

          Dwelling on the agrarian economy of the state, the Chief Minister envisaged Mr. Verma's support in pursuing their agriculture diversification program through making lucrative investments in the agro and food processing industry to give further impetus to the farming sector. 

          Striking a positive note, Mr. Verma assured the Chief Minister that he would certainly motivate the key players in the fields of education, healthcare, agriculture & food processing, solar energy and skill development to make investments in Punjab. He highly appreciated the concerted efforts of the state government under the leadership of the Chief Minister to open Maharaja Ranjit Singh Armed Forces Preparatory Academy for Boys & Mai Bhago Armed Forces Preparatory Academy for girls to ensure their placement in the Defence services besides setting up first of its kind Meritorious Schools for poor but bright students to enable them to compete with their convent/ public educated peers.   Mr. Verma also lauded the stellar performance of the state government in making Punjab the only power surplus state in the country besides having an excellent network of road and air connectivity.

          Mr. Verma also told the Chief Minister that he would soon take up the issue of opening of US consulates in Jalandhar and Chandigarh for the convenience of people of the region in general and especially in Punjab as the majority of Punjabi Diaspora was settled abroad across the globe especially in US and Canada.

          Earlier, the Chief Minister welcomed Mr. Verma saying it was a momentous occasion to receive a US Ambassador having roots in Punjab, as the latter belonged to village Apra in Jalandhar district where his father has still an ancestral house besides his mother hailing from Jalandhar. Mr. Badal assured the envoy that state government would love to do anything for the development of his ancestral village as per the wishes and aspirations of the people.  

          The Chief Minister was accompanied by his Special Principal Secretary Mr. Gaggandip Singh Brar. Second Secretary (Political) Ms. Sandhya Dass, Second Secretary (Public Affairs) Ms. Emily White and Senior Advisor US embassy Mr. A.Sukesh were also present on the occasion.

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ATWAL  MEETS  PRESIDENT OF THE INDO-FRENCH GROUP DURING HIS VISIT TO PARIS

CHANDIGARH, 14 OCTOBER:

Punjab Legislative Assembly Speaker Dr. Charanjit Singh Atwal who is on a Parliamentary study visit to Paris, met Senator Francois Marc, President of the Indo-French Group in the French Senate. This meeting was organised in the French Senate.

           Dr. Atwal gave an overview to the Senator of the broader framework of the Indian parliamentary system and the differences that our parliamentary form of government has with the semi presidential system of France. Highlighting the role of the state legislative assemblies in the entire scheme of things, touched upon the major functions of state legislators including those like the implementation of the MLA Local Area Development Funds.

          Dr. Atwal also brought to the attention of the Senator, recent decision of the Punjab Government to donate a statue of  Great Maharaja Ranjit Singh to be installed on Square Allard in the French City of Saint-Tropez on the request of its Mayor. He recalled that General Allard was one of the French Generals of Maharaja and his descendent is currently the Deputy Mayor of the city. The Senator expressed his gratitude for this initiative and promised of every possible assistance in this regard. It is in this context that the Dr. Atwal mentioned of the contributions of Maharaja Ranjit Singh in maintaining the peace and stability in the region for a period of 40 years.

           Senator Francois Marc and Dr. Charanjit Singh Atwal were unanimous that terrorism now has become a universal menace and needs to be fought together. The Speaker also thanked France for appreciating the stance of India on UNSC reforms. They also concurred that the trade in Goods and Services between the two countries has further potential to grow. The Speaker also highlighted the investment potentialities in agro-industries and food processing sector in Punjab to which the Senator responded positively and promised to leverage this input while mobilizing further French investments in India. The Speaker was also of a view that there should be more cultural exchanges between India and France and invited the Senator to visit Punjab while in India.

           Dr. Atwal was accompanied with Shri Avinash Kumar Singh, Secretary in the Indian Mission in France. On this occasion a replica of The Golden Temple Amritsar was presented to Senator Francois Marc by Dr. Atwal. He thanked H.E. Senator Francois Marc for extending warm welcome and hospitality and invited Mr. Marc to visit the State of Punjab in India.

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  PROGRESSIVE PUNJAB INVESTOR SUMMIT-2015

 

SUMMIT TO PROVIDE PLATFORM TO STARTUP SAVVY ENTERPRISING YOUTH

 

·        SUMMIT JOINS HAND WITH STARTUP ACCELERATOR CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

 

·        SUKHBIR’S NEW INITIATIVE TO PROVIDE WINGS TO THE ENTERPRISING YOUTH

 

 

Chandigarh, October 14: 

 Progressive Punjab Investor Summit 2015 is writing a new chapter to promote entrepreneurship amongst Startup Savvy Youths by providing them an international platform to present their innovative ideas before the Icons of Industry so that these could fructify into futuristic ground breaking venture of world.

 

            Punjab Deputy Chief Minister Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal has initiated this noble Endeavour to provide a forum to our enterprising budding youth as he feels that start savvy youth and our industrial icons can jointly lay the firm foundation of ‘Make In India’ dream.

 

It is for the first time that ‘Progressive Punjab Investor Summit-2015’ is joining hands with Startup Accelerator Chamber of Commerce (SACC) that has been constituted to promote brain storming amongst start up savvy culture in Punjab and the summit would provide a platform to enterprising youth.

 

Disclosing this, an official spokesperson said that Startup Weekend Punjab will be a 54 hours new business ideas marathon that will be conducted at Entrepreneurship Development Centre, IT park Chandigarh from 23rd-25th October. The final business idea would be showcased in front of eminent guests from all over the country and prominent jury from the Industry/Finance and Academic backgrounds at ISB, Mohali on 29th October at 10 AM.  

 

Divulging more, the spokesperson said that this unique initiative by Invest Punjab and SACC would focus on showcasing the hidden potential of the youth, primarily from Punjab and North, as they put forward their capabilities to innovate. Such a platform would give a path breaking direction to the youth to create their own sustainable enterprise/venture in any field whether it is Design/IT/Finance/Hospitality/Agriculture/Energy/Services. The winners at this enterprise would be provided with free working space and bandwidth for 6 months up to 1 year by SACC, STPI and Progressive Punjab. Besides, certificates to all the participants would be awarded on 29th October, 2015. Google and Amazon being the partners of Startup Weekend Globally, would bestow the web/tech support prizes for the participants.

 

The spokesperson further elaborated that SACC, a community and official regional partner of Startup Weekend and Techstars, has conducted 5 Startup Weekends in Punjab and North since July, 2014. The Startup Weekends conducted at Chandigarh, Landran, Tangori, Dehradun, Startup Weekend for women at Mohali have been instrumental in guiding over 1000 youth on entrepreneurship. According to the spokesperson, Startup Weekend is a world renowned 54 hours program for startups, held over 3 days on the weekend, providing guidance and technical know-how to any kind of professionals, students/youngsters towards new business formation and entrepreneurship. The Startup Weekend has created more than 15000 entrepreneurs world over during the last 10 years.  

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PUNJAB TO SAFEGUARD THE RIGHTS OF PUNJAB CADRE TEACHERS WORKING IN UT: CHEEMA

·         DEPUTATION TEACHERS FELICITATES EDUCATION MINISTER

CHANDIGARH, OCTOBER 14:

The Punjab Government today firmly vowed to support the legitimate right of Punjab Cadre teachers working at UT Chandigarh on deputation. This commitment was exhibited by Dr. Daljit Singh Cheema, Education Minister at his official residence during a meeting with Punjab Cadre UT teachers.

Dr Cheema said that the SAD-BJP Government would not let Punjab Cadre any Officers or Employees at UT to face discrimination and their constitutional rights would be safeguarded. On m this occasion Teachers honoured Dr. Cheema and Mr. Balbir Singh Dhol, DPI (Secondary Education) for their support.

Teachers extended gratitude towards Education Minister Dr. Daljit Singh Cheema for taking up their case of forcefully repatriation from UT to Punjab by UT Administration. They said that with the timely intervention of Punjab Government their repatriation process of Punjab Cadre teachers was stopped. They also showered heartfelt regards upon Mr. Sukhdev Singh Dhindsa, Mr. Balwinder Singh Bhunder and Prof. Prem Singh Chandumajra, all MPs, who had represented their case before the Punjab Governor and UT Administrator.

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 PUNJAB ANNOUNCES SLEW OF WELFARE SCHEMES FOR THE CONSTRUCTION LABOUR

 Chandigarh, October 14: The Punjab Government has announced slew of welfare schemes for the construction labour in the State reiterating the commitment of state to ensure welfare of construction labour.

         During 18th high powered meeting of Punjab Building and Other construction workers Welfare Board presided by Labour Minister, Punjab Mr. Bhagat Chunni Lal gave details of these schemes.

        Giving the details of welfare schemes he said that it has been decided to start Health Assurance Schemes for construction workers for which Labour department has inked MOU with Punjab Health System Corporation and department has transferred worth Rs. 5,70,28,500 for the health facilities. The board shall ensure the those who are not covered under ESIC are covered under the other schemes for the purpose of health insurance.

       He said that labour department has planned to construct toilets in labour colonies where construction workers resides in cluster basis under Swatch Bharat Abhyan beside expenditure of maintenance and repair of toilets will be provided by the board. The board shall formulate skill development schemes for the family members of the building construction workers preferably at the site of building construction.

     Principle Secretary, Labour Mr.V.K. Khanna said that labour department has ensured the availability of safe drinking water, shelter, sanitation, crèches mobile toilets, other welfare measures and facilities by the employers as per prescribed Act are being provided to the building and other construction workers at the construction site for the workers at the sight of construction. The labour department has provided the welfare benefits under the Employees compensation Act, 1923 and other life insurance schemes. In the accident case of death and disability, payment of additional ex-gratia amount as RS. 2 lakh is fixed by the board.

    Divulging information Additional Labour Commissioner, Mr. Harish Nayyar  said that board shall make contribution in payment of the premium payable by the beneficiary for enrolment under Pardhan Mantra Suraksha Bima Yojna and Pardhan Mantri Jeevan Jyoti Beema Yojna. The board shall formulate a scheme for the funding of education for the children of the beneficiaries preferably on the lines of Amm Admi Bima Yojna.The board shall enrol the beneficiaries under Amm Admi Bima Yojna so as to ensure that school/college going children of the beneficiaries get scholarship benefit under the scheme .The Board shall pay a minimum of fifty percent of the premium and remaining will be borne by the beneficiaries.

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PUNJAB GOVERNMENT INSTRUCTS ALL THE DEPARTMENTS TO USE DIGITAL LOCKER SYSTEM

CHANDIGARH, OCTOBER 14:

          The Punjab Government  has instructed  the employees of all the departments to maximize  the usage of digital locker system.

          Stating this, an official spokesman  said that  this system has been developed  by Electronics and Information Technology Department, Government of India under the Digital India Programme.

          Divulging more, the spokesman said Punjab is at to attempt  of the become a frontline state in the success of digital India Programme. The spokesman said that the Digital locker System would minimize  the physical use of the documents which would be exchanged of use online. The spokesman said that more information regarding digital locker system can be accessed atwww.digitallocker.gov.in.

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6 IAS AND 12 PCS OFFICERS TRANSFERRED

Chandigarh, October 14:-   The Punjab Government today transferred 6 IAS and 12 PCS officers in the state with immediate effect.

            Disclosing this here today a spokesman of the Punjab Government said that in IAS Officer Smt. Raji. P. Srivastva has been posted as Secretary, Personnel, in addition Director, Mahatma Gandhi State Institute of Public Administration, Punjab, Chandigarh, Sh. Kumar Anugreh Prasad Sinha as Secretary Parliamentary  Affairs and in addition Secretary, General Administration,  Sh. Vikas Partap as Secretary, Local Government and in addition Managing Director, PUNCOM, Sh. Harbhupinder singh as Secretary Education, Sh. Kumar Saurabh Raj as Additional Deputy commissioner (General) Pathankot and in addition Commissioner, Municipal Corporation Pathankot, Sh. Keshav Hingonia as Secretary, Punjab Public Service Commission, Patiala.

          He further said that similarly PCS Sh. Gurdip singh has transferred as Special Secretary Agriculture, Sh. Vimal Kumar Setia as Additional Deputy commissioner (General) Ferozepur and in addition Additional Deputy commissioner (Development) Ferozepur, Sh. Jasbir singh-2  has placed at the disposal of the department of Local Government for posting as Commissioner, Municipal Corporation, Moga, Sh. Rakesh kumar Popli as Sub Divisional Magistrate, Baba Bakala, Sh. Rakesh Kumar as Sub Divisional Magistrate, Mansa and in addition Estate Officer, Bathinda Development Authority, Bathinda, Sh. Surinder singh as Sub Divisional Magistrate, Jagraon , Sh. Hardip singh Dhaliwal as Sub Divisional Magistrate, Ajnala, Sh. Sorabh Kumar Arora as Sub Divisional Magistrate, Batala, Sh. Manjit Singh Cheema as Estate Officer Patiala Development Authority Patiala and in addition Secretary (Examination) Punjab Public Service Commission, Patiala, Sh. Amrinder Singh Tiwana as Sub Divisional Magistrate, Guruharsahai, Ms. Damandeep kaur as Sub Divisional Magistrate, Phillaur  and Ms. Navneet Kaur Bal as Sub Divisional Magistrate, Dharkalan and in addition Assistant Commissioner (General), Pathankot.

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 22 POSTS OF CLERK CADRE TO BE FILLED IN PUNJAB CIVIL SECRETARIAT THROUGH TRANSFER 

Chandigarh, October 14: The Punjab Government has decided to fill 22 vacant posts in the Punjab Civil Secretariat belonging to the clerk cadre through transfer. 

       An official spokesman while disclosing this said that only the employees serving as clerks in the various Government departments of the State are eligible to apply for the above mentioned posts.

      The spokesman further said that the candidates fulfilling all the eligibility conditions of qualification and experience prescribed by the state Government, would have to undergo a Punjabi test the intimation regarding which would be sent later on. The spokesperson said that the applying candidates should have completed their probation period satisfactorily, must be a graduate and should have the working knowledge of Punjabi/English typing.

     The spokesperson further said that the eligible and willing candidates should apply with the attested photocopies of certificates of their educational qualifications, details of regular appointment, no-objection certificate from the head of the department, within 1 month of the circular. The applications should be sent to the General Administration Department (Secretariat Establishment-4 Branch), 6th Floor, Punjab Civil Secretariat.

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CM CONDEMNS INCIDENT OF SACRILEGE OF SRI GURU GRANTH SAHIB IN FARIDKOT DISTRICT

EXHORTS PEOPLE TO EXERCISE CALM IN THIS HOUR OF CRISIS

VOWS TO TAKE STRICTEST ACTION AGAINST THE CULPRITS INVOLVED IN THE HEINOUS INCIDENT

BEWARE OF NEFARIOUS DESIGNS AIMED AT DIVIDING SOCIETY ON SECTARIAN LINES

 Chandigarh, October 13-

 Strongly condemning the incident of desecration of Sri Guru Granth Sahib in Bargari village of Faridkot district, the Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today urged the people to exercise calm in this hour of crisis. 

In a statement issued here today, the Chief Minister said that nobody would be allowed to disturb the hard earned peace and communal harmony in the state. He appealed the people to maintain peace, amity and communal harmony at all cost as preached by our great gurus, seers and prophets. Expressing deep anguish over this unfortunate incident, Mr. Badal exhorted the people to exercise restraint in these circumstances by displaying the ethos of religious tolerance, unity and brotherhood.

 SAD- BJP welcomes withdrawal of the rail roko agitation by farmer organisations

 (Says congenial atmosphere created after meeting with CM to resolve all pending demands)

 Chandumajra and Mittal hail CM for holding talks with farmer organisations.

 Chandigarh, October 13 - The SAD - BJP today welcomed the decision of farmer organisations to call off their "rail roko" agitation and said it had created a congenial atmosphere for readdress all of all problems being faced by farmers in the State.

Addressing a joint press conference at the Punjab Bhawan today, SAD MP Prem Singh Chandumajra and  Senior BJP  leader and cabinet minister Madan Mohan Mittal said the end of the rail roko agitation would provide succour to the common man who hd been severely inconvenienced for the past one week.

Asserting that peace and communal harmony were of utmost importance, the leaders urged the farmer organisations to have trust in the government and jointly work with it to get all their pending issues resolved at the earliest.

The SAD - BJP leaders also hailed chief minister Parkash Singh Badal for taking the initiative and holding direct talks with the farmer organisations which had led to several concessions besides an assurance to take up all pending issues with the central government.

Mr Chandumajra said it was decided that henceforth all crops would be considered for relief be it fruits, vegetables or even pulses besides food grain. He said the relief parameters had also been increased to take in climatic conditions, including fog. Besides this it was decided that compensation would be given to cultivators also henceforth and not only the land owners.

The MP said it was also decided that a joint declaration of the SAD - BJP would meet the prime minister soon and apprise him about all the pending problems of the farming community.

Mr Chandumajra disclosed that the chief minister had assured the organisations that all cases relating to farm labour including providing them housing and ensuring power connections to them would be taken up for redressal immediately. He said it was also decided that all old cases against farmer leaders would be reviewed and that surveys in case of suicide deaths would be conducted at a common meeting place in the village.

Mr Madan Mohan Mittal, while appreciating the steps taken by the chief minister to mitigate the suffering of the farmers after damage to cotton due to white fly attack, said the relief of Rs 8,000 per acre which hd been given to farmers was the highest in the country. He also lauded the decision to urge the central government to form a Basmati Trading Corporation to ensure farmers get a fair price for their basmati crop. EOM

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 Sandhu visits Amritsar  kapurthala and tarn taran mandis to review procurement

Till 12 October17.10 lac MT of paddy and 1509 Basmati procured

 Chandigarh, October 13:
       The pace of procurement of paddy arriving in the various Mandis of the state has picked up as till October 12 a sum total of 17.10 lac MT of paddy and 1509 variety of basmati have been procured in the state . Out of it 15.98 lac MT have been purchased by govt agencies including the FCI and 1.12 lac MT have been purchased by private traders and millers.
        It was disclosed by Mr. S.K.Sandhu, Principal Secretary to the Chief Minister, Punjab who, on the directions of Chief Minister,  today visited district grain market kapurthala , Fatehabad Mandi  (Tarntaran) and  Tarntarn mandi and Attari mandi  district  Amrtisar to review the  procurement arrangements . He held a meetings with procurement officials , chairmen of market committees and arhtiyas . The farmers and arhtiyas expressed their happiness over the smooth procurement being made by the state  government .
       Speaking on the occasion Mr.Sandhu said that this total procurement includes purchase of 2.05 lac MT of 1509 variety . He said that 10.88 lac MT of paddy was purchased in the state Mandies in the corresponding period of last year.
     He further said that as per norms fixed for lifting the state government  agencies have lifted more than what is mandated under instructions. He said that out of 14.83 Lac MT purchased by state govt agencies 9.74 lac MTs have been lifted which  is 103 % of the target. He said that the agencies are required to lift the paddy within 72 hrs of the purchase . PSCM said that 1.84 lac MTs have been purchased in Kapurthala district so far and it is expected that 5.0 lac MT will arrive in the district Mandies . He said that 1.20 lac MTs which was purchased till October 10 have been lifted by the agencies which is 115% as per the norms.

      During the visit at Tarn Taran some farmers complained that their produce has been purchased below MSP. PSCM visited their heaps and the officials of the agencies were directed to inspect the stocks and if found with in specifications should be purchased at MSP. He issue instructions that DC and other officials would stay in the Mandi to look into every such complaint. Secy Mandi Board has also been asked to send a senior officer from Chandigarh to tarn taran Mandi to enquire into these purchases and submit a report . Sandhu said that strict action will be taken against negligent officials based on the report.

At the last lag of his visit Mr. Sandu visited Attari Mandi in District Amritsar. The procurement at that mandi was smooth and  as per expectation of the government and farmers.
       Mr. Sandhu said that the procurement is progressing satisfactorily in every district of the state and  all the Deputy Commissioners have been made in charge of procurement operations in their respective districts .

DR. BALRAM K. GUPTA JOINS AS DIRECTOR (ACADEMICS), CHANDIGARH JUDICIAL ACADEMY

CHANDIGARH, OCTOBER 13:

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M MOURNS DEATH OF SENIOR JOURNALIST VISHWAKIRTI YASH

Chandigarh, October 10-

Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today expressed profound grief and sorrow over the sad demise of the Chief Editor of Jalandhar based newspaper Daily Milap Mr. Vishwakirti Yash (59), who passed away at New Delhi this evening after a prolonged illness. He is survived by wife and a son.

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

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

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CM CONDOLES THE PASSING AWAY OF SHAWINDER KAUR KAHLON, WIFE OF FORMER SPEAKER OF PUNJAB ASSEMBLY NIRMAL SINGH KAHLON

Chandigarh, October 10-

Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today deeply mourned the sad demise of Mrs. Shawinder Kaur Kahlon (68) the wife of former Speaker of Punjab assembly Mr. Nirmal Singh Kahlon, who passed away at a private hospital in Amritsar late last night after a brief illness. She is survived by her husband and two sons.

Sharing 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 them to bear this huge loss in this hour of crisis.    

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CM EXHORTS FARMERS TO CALL OFF THEIR STIR IN LARGER PUBLIC INTEREST

CALLS UPON FARMERS FOR A DIALOGUE

REITERATES THAT ALLIANCE GOVERNMENT IS, WAS AND WOULD EVER REMAIN A VOTARY OF FARMERS’ WELFARE

CM TO CONVENE A MEETING WITH REPRESENTATIVES OF FARMERS AND FARM LABOUR UNIONS ON OCTOBER 12

Chandigarh, October 10-

          Reiterating that SAD-BJP alliance government was, is and would ever remain committed for the welfare of the farmers, the Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today exhorted the agitating farmers and farm labour unions to call off their stir in larger public interest.

          In a statement issued here today, the Chief Minister said that SAD had always been a votary of the farmers and their rights adding that their government had always taken appropriate steps to safeguard the interests of the farmers. He said that though the farmers have been in distress due to the anti-farmers stance of the previous Congress governments at the Centre but the SAD-BJP alliance had taken slew of historic initiatives to bail out the farmers. Mr. Badal said that right from subsidies to timely dispensation of compensation, whenever required, the state government has always extended a helping hand to the farmers.

The Chief Minister said that apart from taking these welfare measures for farming community we were fully conscious that agriculture was no longer a profitable venture and thus the state government had introduced agriculture diversification program due to which the farmers were getting handsome returns through allied farming activities like dairy, fishery, goatery and piggery. He further said that it was on record that whenever our farmers had faced any sort of problem the SAD-BJP alliance government has came to their rescue. Mr. Badal said that during the past more than eight years the state government has provided free power to farmers worth Rs 28000 crore otherwise their problems would have accentuated manifold on account of electricity bills of tube well.

Likewise, the Chief Minister said that when the wheat crop of the farmers was damaged due to untimely rains in April 2015 the state government ensured that every grain was lifted. In the same manner, he said that the state government took every step to resolve the impending sugarcane crisis by ensuring the payment of arrears to the farmers from private and cooperative sugar mills. “Even now when the cotton cultivators had suffered huge loss due to white fly attack our government immediately released compensation to the tune of Rs 644 crore to help them” added Mr. Badal.

Terming that the state government was ready to accept every genuine demand of the farmers, the Chief Minister appealed the farmers to lift the rail blockade which was causing huge harassment to general public besides causing a whopping economic loss to the nation. He said that the state government had already taken several steps for safeguarding the interests of farmers and it would leave no stone unturned to bail the distressed farmers out of severe crisis. “Being a farmer myself I am well versed with your problems and difficulties so I urge you to shun the path of agitation and initiate a process of dialogue for amicable solution of this grave problem” Mr. Badal appealed to the farmers.

          Meanwhile, according to the spokesperson of the Chief Minister’s Office, Mr. Badal has convened a meeting of representatives of various farmers and farm labour unions on Monday evening to hold detailed discussions with them on the various issues confronted them.

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 SUKHBIR BADAL CONDOLES DEMISE OF SAWINDER KAUR KAHLON

 Chandigarh, October 10 :

 Punjab Deputy Chief Minister S. Sukhbir Singh Badal has expressed profound grief over the demise of Mrs. Sawinder Kaur Kahlon, wife of former Speaker Punjab Vidhan Sabha and former Minister S. Nirmal Singh Kahlon, who passed away last night following an illness. Mrs Kahlon (68) had served as District Education Officer and is survived by 2 sons Ravikaran Singh Kahlon, Chairman Water Resources Management and Development Corporation and Dr Shivkaran Singh Kahlon , medical officer in Health Department.

Sharing his condolences with the bereaved family, Deputy Chief Minister said that Mrs. Kahlon had inculcated moral values and philanthropic virtues among the students with extreme dedication.

Mr Badal prayed to the almighty to grant eternal peace to the departed soul and courage to the bereaved family to bear this irreparable loss.

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 TWO COMMITTEES CONSTITUTED UNDER GENERAL MANAGER  TO CHECK GUNNY BALES QUALITY FOR PADDY PACKING

·       GUNNY BALES QUALITY FOUND CORRECT IN FIRST COMMITTEE REPORT

·       GUNNY BALES QUALITY WILL BE CHECKED IN FUTURE ALSO ON OTHER PLACES

·       DECISION TAKEN ON RICE MILLER ASSOCIATION DEMAND

 

CHANDIGARH, OCTOBER 10:

       On the complaint received from Punjab Rice Miller Association regarding poor quality gunny bales, Punjab Food and Civil Supply Department  has taken immediate action and two committees have been constituted at under the chairmanship of General Manager for checking.  Gunny bales quality  was found correct in the inspection reporte given by one committee.

      Disclosing this here today a spokesman of the Punjab Government said that  one committee had  checked the Jute Bales at Nabha Centre. Rice Miller Association and ICI representative were included in the inspection team also .  Gunny bales were found correct as per determined specifications of Food and Civil Supplies Department. These teams would also visit other centres of the state in future  for inspection.

      He further said that  after receiving the reports from the inspection teams, if any  discrepancies has been found  in the quality of gunny bales during the cross checking of the quality report then department would wirte to DGS and D and Jute Commissioner for further strict action against the culprit. The Spokesman further clarified that Jute Bales for Paddy and wheat procurement were supplied by Director General Supplies and Disposal of Government India Department from Jute Milles. The spokesman further said that the punjab government do not procure any gunny balles from Jute Mills directly.

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MAJOR RESHUFFLE IN POLICE DEPARTMENT

CM GIVES NOD TO TRANSFER 21 IPS AND SIX PPS OFFICERS INCLUDING THREE SSP’S

Chandigarh, October 10-

In a major administrative Police reshuffle, the Punjab Government today issued the transfer/ posting orders of the 21 IPS and six PPS officers including three Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP).

Disclosing this here today a spokesperson of the Chief Minister’s Office said that a file to this effect was cleared by Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal, this morning.

The details of transfers and postings of these officers are as follows:

Sr. No.	NAME OF THE OFFICER	PRESENT POSTING	NEW POSTING
1	Mr. HS Dhillon IPS	ADGP/ Intelligence	ADGP Cum Commandant General Punjab Home Guards and Director Civil Defence
2	Mr. Dinkar Gupta IPS	ADGP/ Welfare	ADGP/ Training with additional charge of ADGP Welfare
3	Mr. Rohit Chaudhary IPS	ADGP/ Law &Order Additional Charge of ADGP Railways	ADGP/ Law &Order Additional Charge of ADGP/ Community Policing. He will be supervisory ADGP of Special Protection Unit of Punjab
4	Mr. Jasminder Singh IPS	ADGP/ Traffic	ADGP/ Railways with Additional Charge of ADGP Traffic
5	Mr. Paramjit Singh Grewal IPS	IGP/ IRB Patiala	IGP/ Patiala Range
6	Mr. Jatinder Jain IPS	IGP/ Intelligence and Counter Intelligence Bathinda	IGP/ Bathinda Range
7	Mr. BK Bawa IPS	IGP/ Bathinda Range	IGP/ IRB Patiala
8	Mrs. Gurpreet Deo IPS	IGP/ NRI	IGP/ Prov.
9	Mr. Ishwar Singh IPS	IGP cum Director SNCB, Punjab	IGP cum Director SNCB, Punjab with additional charge of IGP/ NRI and IGP/ Community Policing
10	Mr. Varinder Kumar IPS	IGP/ Intelligence	IGP/ Crime
11	Mr. Parveen Kumar Sinha IPS	IGP/ Provisioning	Orders to be issued later
12	Mr. RK Jaiswal IPS	DIG/ Intelligence -1 with additional charge of DIG Ropar Range	He will look after the work of IGP Intelligence
13	Mr. Gursharan Singh Sandhu IPS	Commandant cum Deputy Director (Indoor), MRS PPA, Phillaur	He will look after the work of DIG Ropar range
14	Mr. KB Singh IPS	AIG/ Transport Chd.	He will look after the work of DIG Prov. Chd.
15	Mr. Ashish Chaudhary IPS	AIG/ Pers- I, Chd	He will look after the work of DIG Admn –II, CPO Chd.
16	Mr. Surinder Kumar Kalia	SSP Vigilance Bureau EOW, Unit 3 Jalandhar	He will look after the work of DIG Ludhiana Range
17	Mr. AK Mittal IPS	DIG Ludhiana Range	Joint Director MRS PPA, Phillaur
18	Mr. Babu Lal Meena IPS	Commandant 4th IRB, Kapurthala	He will look after the work of DIG PAP Jalandhar
19	Mr. Ranbir Singh Khatra IPS	AIG Flying Squad Vigilance Bureau	He will look after the work of DIG Bathinda Range
20	Mr. Mohnish Chawla IPS	DIG, Bathinda Range	DIG, CI, Pb.
21	Mr. Gurinder Singh Dhillon IPS	Posting Awaited	DIG, IT&T, Chd.
22	Mr. Harpreet Singh PPS	SSP Batala	DCP Amritsar
23	Mr. Diljinder Singh Dhillon PPS	AIG, SNCB with additional charge of commandant 75th Battalion PAP	SSP Batala
24	Mr. Harmohan Singh PPS	ADCP/ Special Branch Ludhiana	SSP Jalandhar (Rural)
25	Mr. Rajeshwar Singh PPS	SP Headquarters/ SBS Nagar	SSP Bathinda
26	Mr. Jaspreet Singh Sidhu PPS	SSP Jalandhar (Rural)	Commandant 4th IRB
27	Mr. Inder Mohan Singh Bhatti PPS	SSP Bathinda	Commandant 75th Battalion PAP, Jalandhar

          The new transfers/ postings would come into force with immediate effect, added the spokesperson.

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CHANDIGARH, OCTOBER 10

                       Dr. Charnjit Singh Atwal Hon.Speaker Punjab Legislative Assembly during his stay at London  to attend 61st General Assembly and Executive Committee Meeting of Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA) had a meeting with Mr. Rajan Mithai High Commissioner of India to United Kingdom.  Mr. Mithai while welcoming Dr. Atwal congratulating him to have a long contribution in Commonwealth Parliamentary Association and for his nomination for the second time as the Regional Representative from India Region for the Executive Committee for CPA by Smt. Sumitra Mahajan Hon'ble Speaker Lok Sabha.  Mr Rajan expressed it was a grate honour not only for the people of Punjab for the whole Legislatures fraternity of India who look upon Dr. Atwal as a Parliamentarian - par - Excellency. It is worth to mention here that Dr. Atwal was elected as Vice Chairman of Executive Committee of CPA in September 2001.

                        During the meeting Dr. Atwal discussed in the British Relationship in the field of Trade and Culture.  Dr. Atwal appreciated Indians settled in United Kingdom who by their hard work had contributed in the field of Political, economic, social and cultural. Now Indians are in high position and is a part of the Government also in UK. On this occasion a Model of Golden Temple Amritsar was presented by Dr. Atwal to Mr Rajan Mithai High Commissioner, Mrs  Atwal was also present on this occasion. 

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CM DESCRIBES SAD-BJP ALLIANCE GOVERNMENT AS THE ONLY PRO-FARMER GOVERNMENT IN THE COUNTRY

STATE GOVERNMENT WAS EVER READY TO HELP THE DISTRESS FARMERS OF THE STATE IN ANYWAY

APPEALS THE FARMERS TO REFRAIN FROM INITIATING ANY SORT OF ACTION THAT CAUSES UNNECESSARY HARASSMENT TO THE PEOPLE

GUILTY OF SUPPLYING SPURIOUS PESTICIDES TO THE COTTON CULTIVATORS IN THE STATE WOULD NOT BE SPARED AT ANY COST

Chandigarh, October 8-

          Describing the SAD-BJP alliance government as the only pro-farmer government in the country, the Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today said that the state government was ever ready to help the distress farmers of the state in anyway.

Interacting with the media persons here today on the sidelines of a function, the Chief Minister said that he was well aware of the problems faced by the farmers and was always ready to accept every genuine demand of the peasantry. He said that the state government has always extended a helping hand to the farmers whenever they had faced any sort of crisis. Citing the examples, he said that the state government was providing free power to the tune of Rs 5000 every year to the farmers otherwise their problems would have accentuated manifolds on account of tube well bills. Likewise, he said that the state government took every step to resolve the impending sugarcane crisis by ensuring the payment of arrears to the farmers from private and cooperative sugar mills. Mr. Badal said that even now the state government has issued funds to the tune of Rs 644 crore to compensate the farmers who have suffered huge loss due to pest attack on Cotton crop in Malwa region.

Terming the protest by the farmers as unfortunate, the Chief Minister appealed the peasants to refrain from initiating any sort of action that caused unnecessary harassment to the common people. He said that some of the demands made by the farmers were unrealistic due to which the state government was helpless in accepting it. “We have already taken several steps for safeguarding the interests of farmers and will continue our endeavours to bail the distressed farmers out of severe crisis” added Mr. Badal.

Replying to another query, the Chief Minister said that anyone found guilty of supplying spurious pesticides to the cotton cultivators in the state would not be spared at any cost. Mr. Badal said that the Special Secretary Agriculture had already submitted a detailed report on this contentious matter, which has been forwarded to the Director General of Police (DGP) for necessary action. Likewise, the Chief Minister said that he had already ordered an enquiry to fix the responsibility of the erring officials and dealers involved in the sale of spurious pesticides by a Special Investigation Team (SIT) of Police comprising three Inspector Generals of Police (IGPs) under the direct supervision of Additional Director General of Police (ADGP) Crime.   

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CM COINS SLOGAN OF ‘ONE INSTITUTION, ONE BLOCK’ FOR IMPARTING SKILL TRAINING TO YOUTH ACROSS THE STATE

UNDERSCORES THE NEED OF COOPERATION BETWEEN STATE GOVERNMENT AND PRIVATE EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTIONS TO EMERGE THE STATE AS A POOL OF SKILLED MANPOWER

CALLS FOR TRANSFORMING TURN SKILL DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM AS A ‘MASS REVOLUTION’

Chandigarh, October 8-

Coining the slogan of ‘One institution, one block’ for imparting skill training to youth across the state, the Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today underscored the need of cooperation between state government and private educational institutions to emerge the state as a pool of skilled manpower across the country.

Addressing the gathering after inaugurating National Summit on Higher Education for Skill Development & Employability being organised by Education Promotion Society for India (EPSI) here today, the Chief Minister said that today the country was confronting major problems of unemployment and poverty, which could be resolved by imparting quality skill training to the youth. Terming the skill training as the only mantra for poverty alleviation in the country, he said that this could open new avenues of employment for the youth, which was the need of hour. Mr. Badal said that this was only possible if every educational institutions, with the support of government, adopts an administrative block in the state to impart skill training to the youth. 

The Chief Minister said that India was one of the youngest nations in the world with more than 65% of its population below the age of 35. However, he said that it was unfortunate 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.

The Chief Minister said that under the able leadership of Prime Minister Mr. Narendra Modi an atmosphere of change was prevailing in the country and schemes like ‘Digital India’, ‘Make In India’ and others were aimed at promotion of skill training in the country, which was hitherto ignored by the previous governments. He said that realising the vast potential skill training in the state, the SAD-BJP alliance government has already taken a slew of measures to promote it in a big way. Mr. Badal said that in line with the National Skill Development Policy, the State has set up an empowered State Skill Development Mission to bring synergy, scale and effective oversight in the implementation of various Skill development initiatives in the State.

The Chief Minister further said that the state government has already chalked out a detailed action program to provide the best skill training to the unemployed youth as well as up-skilling them in specific fields viz healthcare & paramedics, driving & automotive, animal husbandry & allied farming and construction activity. He said that the State Technical Education & Industrial Training department has been asked to rope in the world class skill development agencies for this purpose. Mr. Badal said that three skill development centres were being established in the Government Medical Colleges of Patiala, Amritsar and Faridkot to impart training in healthcare and paramedics.

The Chief Minister further said that the state government has decided to set up five Multi-Skill Development Centres (MSDCs) at Ludhiana, Jalandhar, Amritsar, Hoshiarpur and Patiala with an aim to offer new skill training courses in light engineering, hand tools, garment & fashion technology and welding and so on to our youth in accordance with the felt needs of the local industry. Likewise, he said that youth would be imparted training in specially designed courses related to activities in the field of animal husbandry and allied farming such as dairying, piggery, bee keeping, fishery, floriculture and horticulture etc. in the Punjab Agriculture University (PAU) and Guru Arjan Dev Veterinary and Animal Science University (GADVASU), Ludhiana with a focused approach to promote the much needed program of agriculture diversification in a big way.

Soliciting the support of the private educational institutions for promotion of the skill education in the state, the Chief Minister said that the state government would extend fulsome support and cooperation to them for this noble cause. He also announced to have detailed deliberations with the private educational institutes to turn Skill development program as a ‘mass revolution’.

Earlier welcoming the Chief Minister, the President of North Western Chapter of  EPSI Mr. Satnam Singh Sandhu lauded the various steps taken by him to promote education in the state. 

On the occasion the Chief Minister was felicitated by the organisers with a shawl and a momento.

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

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NATION-WIDE CLEANLINESS CAMPAIGN EXTENDED TILL October 31st

Chandigarh,8 October:

The Punjab Government has directed all officers of departments to extend and revise the Nation-wide Sanitation/Cleanliness campaign up to 31st October 2015.

        An official spokesman of the Government today said that the Prime Minister had announced “Swachh Bharat Mission” on 2nd October, 2014 to achieve a clean India by the 150th birth anniversary of Mahamtma Gandhi in 2019. The Punjab Government through its departments has been  actively participating in this mission. As the first year of the mission draws to close, there is need to reiterate our commitment and reinvigorate   our efforts towards this national endeavour , he added.

         Divulging more information he said that during the campaign, there is need to involve people of different walks of life in order to generate mass public awareness and an annual action plan for cleanliness has already prepared by the State. The Punjab Government has laid emphasis on keeping the rural and rural habitats clean, through cleaning of streets and establishing solid and liquid waste management plants. He said that building and providing sanitation facilities to people.  

       The State Government has ordered to expedite the on going projects under National Cleanliness Campaign by cut out date fixed by Government Of India.

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 PUNJAB SETS UP UNIFIED HELP DESK FOR CIVIL SECRETARIAT I&II TO TACKLE COMPUTER/NETWORK RELATED PROBLEMS

Chandigarh, October8:

The Punjab Government has set up unified help desk for Civil Secretariat I& II to resolve Departmental IT service related issues.

Disclosing this here an official spokesman said that officers and staff in the secretariats were facing various problem regarding IT services. Due to this official work was also suffering. In order to meet end to end requirements of users of the Punjab Civil secretariats I&II, a unified helpdesk has been jointly set up by M/s TCS & M/s Wipro at ground floor Punjab Civil Secretariat-1 under Department of Governance Reforms.

The spokesman said that this Helpdesk would provide listed services to Civil Secretariat I & II. Hel desk can be contacted through Toll free no 1800-419-0737(24x7) and logging on to e-sarkar helpdesk at Hepldesk.punjab.gov.in.

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KOHAR ASKED FOR FORCEFUL IMPLEMENTATION OF “SAFE SCHOOL VAHAN SCHEME”

Chandigarh, October 08:

Punjab Government emphasized upon the need of proper implementation of 'Safe School Vahan Scheme to reduce the school bus accidents. In view of this Punjab Transport Minister, S. Ajit Singh Kohar has issued directions to all District Transport Officers of the state, to ensure the professional credentials of the candidates before recruiting them for the buses. They should be having a valid driving license besides having an experience certificate of handling heavy vehicles. He also asked the authorities to ensure that the guidelines of the Supreme Court of India are not flouted under the 'Safe School Vahan '

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

He said that Punjab Government has initiated an elaborate drive to ensure that the road safety norms are being properly implemented. For this purpose a scheme namely 'Safe School Vahan ' has been formulated by the transport department. School Education Department has been entrusted upon a special responsibility to properly maintain school buses and their use following the norms of Motor Vehicle Act, 1988 and Supreme Court rulings.

The minister also asked the District Transport Officers and District Education Officers to comply with the directive of the Supreme Court to ensure safety of the school children.

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PUNJAB INFOTECH TO PROVIDE TECHNICAL TRAINING TO 4400 SC CANDIDATES

· UNIQUE INITIATIVE TO COST RS. 154 LAKH

· 200 CANDIDATES TO BE SELECTED FROM EACH DISTRICT

· INFOTECH CHAIRMAN MEETS PUNJAB SC COMMISSION CHAIRMAN

CHANDIGARH, OCTOBER 8:

The Punjab InfoTech would conduct special training courses of 3 months duration for the 4400 candidates belonging to the Scheduled Caste (SC) category in the 2015-2016 session. This initiative has been launched to ensure that the SC candidates get the opportunity to develop professional skills as per the demands of the industrial sector.

Disclosing this, the Chairman of the Punjab State Scheduled Caste Commission, Mr. Rajesh Bagha said that the Chairman of Punjab Infotech Mr. Manjit Singh Rai has sought co-operation of the SC Commission for the success of this initiative. Lauding the initiative, Mr. Bagha said that this unique initiative would prove to be a boon for the SC candidates belonging to the economically weaker sections.

Mr. Bagha also elaborated that under this programme, the Punjab InfoTech would provide computer related technical education to the 200 candidates from every district in the 2 separate batches of 2200. This programme would cost Rs. 154 lakhs. He also said that the lists are being prepared for the first batch of 2200 candidates and the course in “Certificate course in computer fundamental and office applications” would be started by the end of October.

Divulging more, Mr. Bagha said that the Punjab Infotech provided skill development and technical training to the 500 SC candidates in 2012-13, 1000 in 2013-14 and 3000 during 2014-15. He also said that in case of any problem during the course, the candidates can contact Punjab InfoTech or Punjab SC Commission. On the occasion, Karanvir Singh Indorra Member SC Commission, Deputy Director Raj Bahadur Singh and Bahadur Singh were also present.

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PUNJAB SEEKS INFORMATION ON VACANT POSTS IN VARIOUS DEPARTMENTS

CHANDIGARH, OCTOBER 8:

The Punjab Government has instructed all the Heads of Department, Administrative Secretaries, Divisional Commissioners and Deputy Commissioners to submit complete information regarding the vacant posts of their departments so that action could be taken to initiate process of recruitment.

Disclosing this, an official spokesperson of Personnel Department said that the state Government has sought information on the vacancies of Group-A, Group-B, Group-C and Group-D and has sent written instructions to all the departments in this regard. According to the spokesperson, information sought by the Government includes Group, Name of Cadre, total sanctioned posts, vacant posts and written reasons for the posts remaining vacant.

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Punjab Government instructs B.D.P.O.'S to visit villages twice a week

Chandigarh, October 8:

The Punjab Government issued instructions to the Block Development and Panchayat Officers to visit the villages under their command area twice a week to review the development works and submit their report to the higher authority.

While disclosing this spokesman of the Rural Development and Panchayat Department, Punjab said that the Punjab Govt. is committed to whole heartedly implementing the development schemes meant for the villages, so that they do not lag behind. In this regard the role of Block Development and Panchayat Officers ( B.D.P.O.) assumed great significance.

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 HEALTH MINISTER ROLLS OUT A PLAN TO CORNEAL BLINDNESS FREE STATE ON WORLD SIGHT DAY

 

·        ORGANISING SPECIAL SCREENING CAMPS FOR CATARACT, GLAUCOMA, REFRACTIVE ERRORS, DIABETIC RETINOPATHY AND CORNEAL DISEASES

·        GET INFORMATION ABOUT NEAREST EYE BANK BY CALLING TOLL-FREE NO 104.

  Chandigarh, October 8:   On the occasion of World Sight Day, Health and Family Welfare Minister Punjab, Mr. Surjit Kumar Jyani  rolled out a plan to Corneal Blindness free State. Addressing all the Civil Surgeons and senior officials he said that  earlier a high-level round-table consultation was held to prepare a road map for this purpose.

             He  disclosed that world sight day is being celebrated all over Punjab by organising special screening camps for Cataract, Glaucoma, Refractive errors, Diabetic retinopathy and Corneal diseases in all Civil Hospitals and Government Medical Colleges.

            Principal Secretary Health, Punjab, Ms Vini Mahajan said that the focus this year is on the identification of treatable corneal blind patients and getting them treated. The endeavour of Punjab Govt is to ensure that all stakeholders work in a planned and coordinated manner to achieve the target in a time bound manner.

           Sh.Hussan Lal, Secretary, Health and Medical Education, explained that an Action Plan needs to be made for the success of this ambitious project. A database needs to be prepared for treatable corneal blind persons for which an online registration proforma is already available on official website of Health Department. Awareness campaign to prevent needless corneal blindness has to be launched effectively and up-scaling of infrastructure and other supportive measures need to be taken by the Govt of Punjab. He told about the provisions in Transplantation of Human Organs and Tissues Act and the rules framed to implement it. The Punjab Govt has to adopt it with state specific amends. He insisted on strengthening the Hospital Corneal Retrieval Programme in big hospitals to procure more eyeballs.

           State Programme Officer NPCB Punjab, Dr Rakesh Gupta enumerated the actionable points at the level of Civil Surgeons, Directorate of Medical Education and Research and In-charge of Eye Banks so that backlog of Corneal Blindness in Punjab can be cleared.

    He assured the participants that necessary amends will be made earnestly before adopting Transplantation of Human Organs and Tissues Act. He appreciated the role of NGOs like Eye Donation Association in Punjab in creating awareness about eye donation.

       Dr.Bhag Mal DHS Punjab told about the measures already undertaken by the Govt to popularize Eye donation including pledging of eyes at the time of Driving Licence applications. He appealed to the general public to pledge their eyes for donation after death by registering online at www.pbhealth.gov.in. He also told that information about nearest eye bank in Punjab is available by calling Toll-free no 104.

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INTERVIEW OF DAIRY TRAINING COURSE ON OCTOBER 19

 Chandigarh, October 8:

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 October 19, 2015 at all the concerned centres by Dairy Development Board. The course commencing on November 16, 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), Phagwara (Kapurthala) 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 six 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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HEALTH DEPARTMENT TO ENGAGE PRIVATE DETECTIVE AGENCIES TO NAB ULTRA SOUND CENTRES DOING ILLEGAL SEX DETERMINATION TESTS

HEALTH MINISTER DIRECTS CIVIL SURGEONS TO CHECK ILLEGAL SEX DETERMINATION WITH IRON HAND

Chandigarh October 7:  The Punjab government would engage the services of the private detective agencies to check the illegal sex determination tests undergoing on the privately run ultra sound centres in Punjab.

            This was stated here today by Health Minister Mr. Surjit Kumar Jayani while presiding over the meeting of the State Supervisory Board where major decisions were taken to get the PNDT Act implemented effectively in Punjab. It was also decided in the meeting that strict action would be taken against those indulged in illegal detection of sex.

            Addressing the meeting the Minister said that all the Civil Surgeons have also been directed to keep an eagle’s eye on the activities of all the Ultra Sound centres being privately run in the state and have been asked to take immediate action against any violation of the PNDT Act. He also said that the state government had been tough with the dishonest owners of these centres and as a result of which the male female sex ratio in the state has improved considerably.

            Addressing the meeting Principal Secretary Health Vini Mahajan reiterated that the government giving a clear message to the ultra sound centres, has announced a cash award of Rs 1 Lakh, which was earlier Rs. 20,000, to the person giving any of information about the ultra sound centres indulging in illegal detection of sex in Punjab. She also said that because of the effective steps taken by the state government in curbing the illegal sex determination tests,   the male female sex ratio was recorded 846 in 2011 which was 798 in 2001.

            Prominent amongst others who were present in the meeting included Director Health Dr. Bhag Mal, Director Welfare Dr. H.S.VBali, Director ESI Dr. Usha Bansal and all the members of the State Supervisory Board on the implementation of PNDT Act.

NO PR-1227/15

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 CM ANNOUNCES CASH-CREDIT LIMIT TO THE FISH FARMERS ON THE PATTERN OF AGRICULTURISTS

MOVE AIMED AT ENCOURAGING FISH FARMING IN THE STATE

EXPRESSES SOLIDARITY WITH THE FARMERS FACING ACUTE AGRARIAN CRISIS

ASKS ANIMAL HUSBANDRY DEPARTMENT TO EXPEDITE THE PROCESS OF SETTING UP SINGLE WINDOW SYSTEM TO PROMOTE ALLIED FARMING ACTIVITIES

PERMISSION FOR TRANSPORTING COWS FOR MILKING, BREEDING OR AGRICULTURE PURPOSE TO THE OTHER STATES TO BE GIVEN WITHIN FOUR DAYS OF APPLICATION

ANNOUNCES SUBSIDY ON CHILLING MACHINES, PASTEURISATION PLANTS AND MILK ATMs

STATE GOVERNMENT TO RAISE THE ISSUE OF RESTRUCTURING OF THE LOANS DAIRY FARMERS WITH THE LEADING BANKS

SETTING UP A OF PIG MEAT AND FISH PROCESSING PLANTS TO BE EXPLORED IN STATE

DIRECTS PSPCL TO ENSURE THAT AGRICULTURE-AP TARIFF WAS CHARGED FROM ALLIED FARMERS AGAINST THE COMMERCIAL RATE

Chandigarh, October 7-

          In a bid to bail out the beleaguered peasantry from the current agrarian crisis by promoting allied farming activities in the state, the Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today announced to provide cash-credit limit to the fish farmers, on the pattern of that given to the agriculturists by the Cooperative Banks.

Presiding over a series of meetings with the progressive Dairy farmers, piggery, goatry and fisherybeneficiaries here at Punjab Bhawan, the Chief Minister said that it was the need of the hour to promote allied farming sector in the state by extending loans to them.  Mr. Badal said had huge potential of fresh water fisheries especially in the southern districts of the state which still remained untapped and hoped that this incentive would certainly help the state to script a new chapter to give much needed impetus for state’s ambitious program of agriculture diversification.  He that Punjab had the highest fish productivity in the country as it produces 1.14 lakh ton of fish from capture and culture fisheries adding that this could enhance much more with such incentives thereby supplementing the income of farmers. 

The Chief Minister also said that the state government would give 24 hour single power connection to the fish farms as required by the farmers. He also said that the state government would set explore the possibility of setting fish markets in every big city of the state. Likewise, Mr. Badal also underscored the need for setting up fish processing plants in the state for more profits to the fish farmers.

Expressing solidarity with the farmers of the state who were facing acute agrarian crisis due to the natural disasters since last few years, the Chief Minister asked the Animal Husbandry department to expedite the process of setting up single window system to promote allied farming activities in the state to supplement the income of farmers on one hand and boost the crop diversification program of the state government on other. He said that on the lines of Bureau of Industrial promotion this single window would act as a facilitation centre for the all the farmers interested in crop diversification through adoption of allied farming activities like dairy, fish, pig and goat rearing. Mr. Badal said that this could act as a  catalyst to transform the destiny of the farmers of the state who were facing several hardships on account of the repeated loss of their crop due to the natural disasters in last few years.

In another significant decision, the Chief Minister said that the permission to the Dairy farmers for transporting Cow for milking, breeding or agriculture purpose to the other states should be given within four days of receiving the application by the Deputy Commissioners (DC). He said that in case trade of cattle for these purposes takes place in designated cattle markets then the Deputy Commissioner or his nominee (not below the rank of a PCS officer) must give the NOC for transporting the cattle on the same day. Mr. Badal said that this would enable the Dairy farmers to sell the cattle to the other states in a smooth and hassle free manner.

          In order to promote the rearing of indigenous breeds of cow like Sahiwal, Gir and others in the state, the Chief Minister also said that a dedicated officer should be appointed for this task. He said that the Animal Husbandry department must compile a database of all the indigenous cows in the state by ensuring the registry of these cattle. Announcing that the state government would give subsidy of chilling machines, pasteurisation plants and Milk ATMs, Mr. Badal also said that clusters of farmers should be constituted for supplying good quality of milk to the consumers.     

          On the demand of Dairy farmers, the Chief Minister assured them that the state government would raise up the issue with restructuring of their loans with the leading banks. He also announced that during the current fiscal Rs 15 crore would be spent for providing quality medicines for the cattle in all the government Veterinary Hospitals across the state. In order to overcome the problem of green fodder in the state, Mr. Badal asked the Milkfed and PAU to jointly chalk a strategy for overcoming in it.

          During deliberations with the pig farmers in the state, the Chief Minister asked them to explore the feasibility of setting up a pig and goat meat processing plant anywhere in the state with the active cooperation of the state government. He said that this plant could change the fortune of pig rearers as their profit could increase manifold.          Mr. Badal also assured the farmers that the state government would take every step to enhance the Research and Development (R&D) in the field of piggery and goatery to benefit the farmers.

          The Chief Minister also directed the officers of the Punjab State Power Corporation Limited to ensure that Agriculture-AP Tariff was charged from dairy, fish, pig and goat rearers against the commercial rate as notified by the state government earlier.

Meeting was attended by Additional Chief Secretary (Animal Husbandry) Mr. Mandeep Singh Sandhu, Principal Secretary to Chief Minister Mr. SK Sandhu, Special Principal Secretary to Chief Minister Mr. KJS Cheema, Chairman of Punjab Gau Sewa Board Mr Keemti Bhagat, Advisor, Punjab Government on Animal Husbandry Dr. PK Uppal, MD Milkfed Mr. Manjit Singh Brar, Director Animal Husbandry Dr. HS Sandha and Director Fisheries Mr. Madan Mohan.  

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 PUNJAB AND ICICI BANK TO TIE-UP FOR SKILL DEVELOPMENT AND RURAL BANKING-SUKHBIR BADAL

 ·        FOCUS ON ESTABLISHING 25 SKILL DEVELOPMENT CENTERS

·        SUKHBIR BADAL BATS FOR ACCIDENTAL DEATH AND LIFE INSURANCE FOR FARMERS

 Chandigarh, October 7:

               The Punjab Government and ICICI bank are proceeding well on their course for a tie-up to provide services in the spheres of skill development and rural banking to the people of the state.

In a meeting here today with the representatives of the ICICI Bank, the Deputy Chief Minister, Punjab, S. Sukhbir Singh Badal today asked ICICI Bank to focus on establishing 25 skill development centers in the State. Besides this discussions were held with bank officials whereby the bank will open 250 branches in Sewa Kendras.

The twin objective of this move is to both provide skill development to youth in rural areas as well as quality banking facilities. The Deputy CM asked bank officials to establish 25 skill development centers along the Sewa Kendras as part of their corporate social responsibility initiative. Each centre should skill 1,000 youth each and train 25,000 youth annually.

Bank  Executive Director (Retail Banking) ICICI, Rajiv Sabharwal while briefing the Deputy CM said all the youth skilled in these centers would get assured employment as the bank had tie up with the industry and trained youth as per industry requirement only. Mr Sabharwal said the youth would be provided training in various vocational and skill enhancing disciplines of electrical home appliances, tractor mechanic, pump operator and AC repair with active assistance from the technical education and Industrial Training department.

The Deputy Chief Minister also said that 250 branches of the ICICI Bank would be made operational in the Sewa Kendras throughout the state. He elaborated that this venture would lay stress on providing all kinds of services including loans, to the people with prime focus being on rural banking. Batting for the cause of farmers, the Deputy Chief Minister asked the bank representatives to explore the possibility of providing accidental death insurance and life insurance to the farming community.

On this occasion, the ICICI Executive Director acknowledged said the impact of Invest Punjab promotional campaign. He said that the bank was eagerly looking forward to actively participating in the Progressive Punjab Investors Summit to be held on 28-29 October at Mohali.

On this occasion, the Industry and Technical Education and Industrial Training Minister, Punjab, Mr. Madan Mohan Mittal, Principal Secretary to the Deputy Chief Minister, Mr. P.S. Aujla, Secretary Technical Education and Industrial Training Mr. R.K. Verma, Joint General Manager-Zonal Head-ICICI Bank, Mr. Vishal Batra were also present.

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CHEEMA DIRECTS TO PUT GRIEVANCE REDRESSAL AND DEPARTMENT INQUIRIES ON FAST TRACK

·       ASK EACH WING TO DEPUTE ONE NODAL OFFICER TO ENSURE THE COMPLIANCE

CHANDIGARH, OCTOBER 7:

With the motive to deliver the timely justice to the employees and general public the Education Minister Dr. Daljit Singh Cheema directed to put the mechanism of department inquires and grievance redressal on fast track. In this direction he specifically instructed to depute one nodal officer in each wing of the department who would be responsible to dispose off the grievances and to get the department inquires conducted in time bound.

These guidelines were issued by Education Minister during a high level meeting, in which Principal Secretary Mr. C Roul, DPI (Secondary Education) Mr. Balbir Singh Dhol, DPI (Elementary Education) Mr. Harbans Singh Sandhu and Director, SCERT, Mr. Sukhdev Singh Kahlon.

Dr. Cheema took serious note of the reports in which it was highlighted that from a single school more than one teacher were being sent on deputation at head quarter or district offices. He said that this unprofessional approach would harm the study of the students in those particular schools. Dr Cheema issued guidelines that now onwards from one school more than one teacher should not be sent on deputation to DPI of DEO offices. He said that no teacher should be sent on deputation from the schools having scanty teaching faculty.

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MUNICIPAL BHAWAN OF LOCAL BODIES DEPARTMENT COMPLETED

·        CONSTRUCTED IN SECTOR 35 AT A COST OF RS 38 CRORE

·        CITIZENS TO GET SERVICES UNDER ONE ROOF

CHANDIGARH, OCTOBER 7:

The Municipal Bhawan being constructed by the Local Bodies Department, Punjab, at Sector-35 has been completed. Now, only electricity and water connection remain to be installed at the bhawan which has cost Rs. 38 crore to the state exchequer. The bhawan would be formally inaugurated very shortly and subsequent to which all the wings of the Local Bodies Departments would be shifted here thereby bringing all the services under one roof.

Disclosing this, the Local Bodies Minister, Punjab, Mr. Anil Joshi said that the bhawan would soon house all the branches Directorate, PMIDC, Town Planning, Officers and Officials of SUDA, Director, Secretary, Chief Parliamentary Secretary and his own office. He said that this Bhawan has been constructed with a cost of Rs.38 crore. He also informed that main motive of constructing this Municipal Bhawan is to provide all services under one roof. He further said that with the offices of the department coming at one place, the citizens as well as officials of Municipal Councils/Trusts/Corporations of the state will not have to visit department's different offices located in other parts of Chandigarh for their official work. He said that it would save a lot of precious time and the work would be carried in a hassle free manner.

The Minister said that this building would be an architectural masterpiece equipped with modern gadgets like centralized air-conditioning system and WiFi connectivity. He added that this new Bhawan would also have ultra modern Auditorium with seating capacity of 350.

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SPECIAL REPAIR OF 4233.79 KM LINK ROADS BE EXECUTED INCURRING RS. 557.90 CRORE: SEKHON

·       PROJECT TO BE COMPLETED BY THE APRIL 30, 2016

·       GOVERNMENT ALSO GIVES NOD FOR PATCH WORK OF 4666.88 KM LINK ROADS

CHANDIGARH, OCTOBER 7:

In a significant decision to upgrade the link road network in the state and to connect every village and small town of the state with the highways, the Punjab Government has given go ahead for the special repair of 4233.79 kilo meter link roads by investing Rs. 557.90 Crore. It was disclosed by Mr. Janmeja Singh Sekhon, PWD Minister, Punjab in a press communiqué released after chairing the review meeting of all the wings of the department.

Mr. Sekhon said that the tendering process for this project has been completed and work was under process. He said that this ambitious project of upgrading the state and rural link roads would be completed by April 30, 2016.

The Minister further said that the state government has also given its nod for the patch work of another 4666.88 kilo meter link roads. “On this project Rs 46.97 Crore would be spent and tendering process of this patch work project has also been completed and work is under process at fast pace” said Mr. Sekhon. He said that this project has been scheduled to be completed by February 28, 2016.

The PWD Minister issued strict instructions to the Chief Engineers of all the wings of the department to adhere to the high standards of quality while executing this work. He also directed them to ensure the timely completion of both these projects.

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AMRITSAR CIVIL HOSPITAL ADJUDGED THE MOST HYGENIC HOSPITAL: GETS AWARD MONEY OF RS. 50 LAKH

 PATHANKOT SECOND AND BATHINDA GETS THIRD POSITION

Chandigarh October 7:

The Civil Hospital Amritsar was adjudged the Hygenically best hospital under the Kayakalap, a campaign launched under Swachh Bharat , in the state and was awarded a cash prize of Rs. 50 Lakh.  Civil hospitals Pathankot and Bathinda bagged second and third positions respectively and got cash prize of Rs. 3 lakh each. The awards were given by the Health Minister at a function organized by the department here today.

Addressing the civil surgeons, Deputy Medical Commissioners and other senior officers of the Health department, Mr. Jayani congratulated the Civil Hospital Amritsar for getting the first ever award announced by the government to ensure the over all cleanliness in the hospital. He said that all other districts should also achieve the standards and norms fixed for health and hygiene so that entire health institutions get this kind of recognition.

He also said that the Punjab government has implemented “Kayakalp”, the directive of the Government of India to ensure cleanliness in all the health institutions during the nation-wide cleanliness drive launched by the Prime Minister Mr. Narender Modi

The Minister also said that instructions had been issued to the Civil Surgeons across the state to ensure cleanliness and basic hygiene in the hospitals under their control. The Best Hospital Award was given on the basis of the overall cleanliness in the hospitals from both in and out,  sanitation and hygiene, disposal of hospital waste, infection control, availability of support services, hygiene promotion etc.

Adding further, the Minister said that while giving the award to the best hospital, a special checklist was prepared to evaluate the hospitals. A quetionair of about 250 questions has also been prepared on the basis of thse questions the Evaluation Committee would evaluate the health institutions. Minimum 70% marks should be obtained by the hospital before being evaluated by the special teams, he added.

Speaking on the occasion, Principal Secretary Health, Ms. Vinni Mahajan said that the SMOs have been delegated special powers to keep a check on the health institutions and were authorized to take immediate steps towards the improvement of these institutions. She also said that about 75% of the award money has been donated to the Rogi Kalyan Samiti which would be spent on the patients and the upkeep of the hospitals while the remaining 25% would be distribted amongst the hospital employees who have made this cleanliness drive a success. She also said that in the first phase only civil hospitals were covered while all the CHCs and Sub Divisional hospitals and Primary health care centres would be covered in the second phase.

Prominent amongst others who were present on the occasion included, Chairman Punjab Health Sysytems Corporation, Baljinder Singh Brar, Secretary cum Mission Director Mr. Hussan Lal, Director Health, Dr. Bhag Mal and Director Welfare Dr. H.S.Bali.

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STATE GOVERNMENT FINALIZES THE BLUEPRINT OF THE POLICY FOR PROVIDING HOUSES TO STATE GOVERNMENT EMPLOYEES

·        POLICY APPROVED IN EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE MEETING OF PUNJAB URBAN DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY (PUDA)

·        PUDA AND OTHER AUTHORITIES TO LAUNCH THE SCHEME SOON FOR FLAT ALLOTMENT TO GOVERNMENT EMPLOYEES

Chandigarh: - October 7, 2015

To meet the long pending demands of employees to provide houses to them, the Executive Committee of Punjab Urban Development Authority (PUDA) today finalized the blueprint of the policy to allot houses to the employees of the Government, its Boards, Corporations and other entities including retirees. . The policy blueprint was approved after detailed deliberations during the Executive Committee meeting of Punjab Urban Development Authority held under the chairmanship of Mr. Sarvesh Kaushal, Chief Secretary Punjab.  Chief Secretary stressed that special focus of the scheme should be to provide affordable flats to Government employees especially to Group C and Group D employees on priority, and further to Group A and Group B employees also.

The policy will cover all the employees working in State Government, State Public Sector Undertakings and Corporations. Applications under the scheme will be sought from the employees after the final approval of the policy at the level of Chief Minister, Shri Parkash Singh Badal.The meeting was attended by Mr. D P Reddy, Principal Secretary Finance, Mr. Viswajit Khanna, Principal Secretary, Housing and Urban Development, Mr. Manvesh Sidhu, CA, PUDA apart from other officials of the concerned departments.

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PADDY PROCUREMENT

4, 80,948 MT PADDY PROCURED IN PUNJAB

PUNGRAIN LEADS IN PADDY PROCUREMENT AMONGST AGENCIES

Chandigarh October 7:  An official spokesman of the Punjab government said that 4, 80, 948 MT of Paddy had been procured in the state till last evening. The government agencies procured 4, 23,008 MT for central pool. The private traders procured 57,940 MT of paddy.

        Giving agency wise procurement details, he said that PUNGRAIN was at the top in paddy procurement by procuring 1, 17, 742 MT (27.8%) whereas MARKFED procured maximum of 10, 3,716 MT (24.5%) PUNSUP procured 97116 MT (23.0%) and PSWC 42204 MT (10.0%). The Central government agency FCI could procure 17,883 MT (4.2%) of paddy for the central pool.

                Meanwhile, according to the spokesperson of the Food and Civil Supplies Department, detailed guidelines to execute smooth and hassle free procurement operations in the state have already been issued to the concerned. Necessary arrangements have also been made in all the 1806 purchase centres of Punjab. An appeal was also made to the commission agents to submit their bills immediately after the purchase so that the online payments could also be made accordingly.

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NABARD ALLOCATES 560 CRORES TO THE STATE UNDER RURAL INFRASTRUCTURE DEVELOPMENT FUND (RIDF)

Chandigarh, October 07: 

NABARD has made normative allocation of Rs. 560 crore to the State of Punjab for sanction of new projects under RIDF-XXI scheme for the year 2015-16. The status and future action plan of State Government projects funded under this scheme was discussed in detail in the High Powered Committee meeting held under the chairmanship of Mr. Sarvesh Kaushal, Chief Secretary Punjab. The officials of Finance Department informed Chief Secretary that Department of Irrigation and  Public Works Department have been allocated Rs. 190 crore each, Department of Education & Department of Water Supply & Sanitation have been allocated Rs. 90 crore and Rs. 80 crore respectively. Chief Secretary stated that all the projects of the State Government of Rs. 560 crores which have been funded under this scheme shall be completed within timeline by the concerned departments.

Some of the major projects sanctioned by the committee included upgradation of 319 km length of water course on Sirhind feeder in Mukatsar District, strengthening and widening of 64 roads in 19 districts, construction of buildings & infrastructure in meritorious schools etc. CGM NABARD mentioned that for all the projects, technical sanction needs to be given within 3 months from the date of the sanction of the project and the tendering should be completed in 6 months from the date of the sanction. CS directed that all administrative secretaries would ensure administrative approval to all pending projects within next three days. Chief Secretary further asked all the concerned Administrative Secretaries to adhere to all the terms and conditions of NABARD funding.

The Meeting was attended by Mr. Mandeep Sandhu, Additional Chief Secretary, Animal Husbandry, Mr. D P Reddy, Principal Secretary Finance, Mr. Viswajit Khanna, Financial Commissioner Forests, Mr. Jaspal Singh, Secretary Expenditure, Mr P M Ghole, CGM NABARD apart from officials from the concerned departments.

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FARMER UNIONS PLAYING POLITICS OVER FARMER ISSUES- SUKHBIR

 

* INVESTIGATIONS GOING ON REGARDING PURCHASE OF FAKE PESTICIDES, GUILTY WILL NOT BE SPARED
* ATTENDS BARSI SAMAGAM OF LATE TEJINDERPAL SINGH MAKKAR

Ludhiana, October 7:
      Punjab Deputy Chief Minister Mr Sukhbir Singh Badal today said that it is sad that some farmer unions are playing petty politics over issues related to the farmers of the state and are misguiding the masses over this sensitive issue. He was referring to the Rail Roko call given by farmer unions in Punjab. On the issue of purchase of fake pesticides, the Deputy CM said that the Punjab government has already ordered a high level probe in this regard and that the guilty would not be spared.
      Deputy CM Mr Sukhbir Singh Badal said this while speaking to media persons after attending the Barsi Samagam of Late Mr Tejinderpal Singh Makkar, son of Shiromani Gurudwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) president Jathedar Avtar Singh, at Gurudwara Sri Guru Singh Sabha, Model Town Extension, here today.
      While speaking to the media persons, Mr Badal said that it is painful that some farmer unions are politicising the issues related to farmers for petty gains. He said that the Rail Roko call given by these unions is an example of that. He said that Punjab Chief Minister Mr Parkash Singh Badal is most worried about the plight of farmers of Punjab and always works for their betterment.
      He said that Mr Parkash Singh Badal is the first Chief Minister of the country who has given maximum benefits to the farmers. He said that the maximum damage in White Fly attack on cotton crop was witnessed in Haryana, followed by Rajasthan and Punjab. "Though the extent of loss in Punjab was less as compared to Haryana and Rajasthan, but Punjab has paid maximum compensation to the farmers," Mr Sukhbir Singh Badal said while adding that a high level probe has already been ordered in the purchase of fake pesticides.
      Mr Sukhbir Singh Badal said that it was due to the efforts of Punjab CM that the compensation amount for damaged cotton crop has been increased from Rs 3,000 per acre to Rs 8,000 per acre, which is much more than the compensation given by other states. He further said that a high level team headed by ADGP level officer is already investigating this matter and any person found guilty would not be spared.
      While addressing the gathering on the Barsi Samagam of Late Tejinderpal Singh Makkar, the Deputy CM said that family of Jathedar Avtar Singh has always worked for the betterment of Punjab, Punjabis and Punjabiat.
      Prominent among those present on the occasion included Advisor to CM Maheshinder Singh Grewal, Irrigation Minister Sharanjit Singh Dhillon, District Planning Board chairman Hira Singh Gabria, MLA's Manpreet Singh Ayali, Ranjit Singh Dhillon, Darshan Singh Shivalik, SR Kler, Rakesh Pandey, Punjab Agro chairman Amrik Singh Aliwal, DSGMC general secretary Manjinder Singh Sirsa, former SGPC president Prof Kirpal Singh Badoongar, ex MLAs Ranjit Singh Talwandi, Malkit Singh Dakha, Special Principal Secretary to Deputy CM and Director Information & Public Relations Rahul Tewari, Deputy Commissioner Rajat Agarwal, Police Commissioner Paramraj Singh Umranangal, Harbhajan Singh Dang, Madan Lal Bagga, Chief Secretary SGPC Harcharan Singh, besides several others.

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PUNJAB SEEKS INFORMATION ON DEPARTMENTAL PROMOTION COMMITTEES WITHIN 15 DAYS 

CHANDIGARH, OCTOBER 7:

            The Punjab Government has instructed all the Heads of Department and Administrative Secretaries to submit complete information regarding the Departmental Promotion Committee meetings within the span of 15 days.

             Disclosing this, an official spokesperson said that seeking this information had become imperative since it had come to the notice of the State Government that various departments were not holding the meetings of Departmental Promotion Committee (DPC) to decide the promotions cases of the officials and officers whenever they become due for promotion.

            According to the spokesperson, it has come to light that the delay in timely promotion to official/officers creates many administrative and legal problems for the Government. He also said that due to this reason many deserving officials/officers are devoid of promotions.

            The spokesperson further said that all the departments have been told to give information regarding pending DPC meetings, reasons for pendency of DPC meetings and the Date on which the last DPC meeting was held.

 

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PUNJAB TRANSFERS 2 TEHSILDARS AND 4 NAIB TEHSILDARS

Chandigarh,October 5: The Punjab Government today issued transfer/posting orders of 2 Tehsildsrs and 4 Naib Tehsildars with immediate effect.

        According to an official spokesman Mr. Amrit Lal has been posted as Tehsildar Jalalabad and Mr. Sukhjinder Singh Tiwana as Tehsildar  Payal.

The spokesman further said that Mr. Joginder Lal has been posted as Naib Tehsildar Goraya while Mr. Varinder Pal Singh Dhoot as Naib Tehsildar LAO Jalandhar and additional charge of Bassi Pathana, Mr. Gurmit Singh Michra as Naib Tehsildar Mandi Gobindgarh and Mr. Narinder Kumar as Naib Tehsildar Raikot. 

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 TO IMPROVE THE WATER QUALITY

·        CHIEF SECRETARY ASKS PUNJAB POLLUTION CONTROL BOARD (PPCB) TO EFFECTIVELY COORDINATE WITH PUNJAB WATER SUPPLY & SEWERAGE BOARD (PWSSB) TO ELIMINATE FECAL COLIFORM AND TO IMPROVE THE PERFORMANCE OF STPs OF THE STATE

Chandigarh, October 5:

          Mr. Sarvesh Kaushal, Chief Secretary Punjab took a serious view of the high value of Fecal Coliform in the Sewage Treatment Plants of the State and ordered that it should be brought within the stipulated limits by adequately adding chlorine and setting up proper mechanism to oversee and monitor the operations. The presence of fecal coliform in rivers may indicate that the water has been contaminated with the fecal material of humans or other animals. Fecal coliform bacteria can enter rivers through direct discharge of waste. Large quantities of fecal coliform bacteria in water may indicate a higher risk of pathogens being present in the water which may increase the risk of water borne diseases.

 Chief Secretary asked PPCB & PWSSB to jointly complete the sampling in all the STPs of the State to ascertain the reasons of high value of Fecal Coliform in next 3 weeks. Joint monitoring and testing will also ascertain the variation between the laboratory results of PPCB and PWSSB.

 During the meeting, the detailed deliberations were also made on the various technologies used for setting up and also for operating Sewage Treatment Plants. To adopt new technology, a pilot plant in Ludhiana will also be set up where Municipal sewage sludge hygienization technology through GAMMA Irradiation will be used. Chief Secretary asked the PPCB and PWSSB to evaluate various low cost technology models for the Sewage Treatment Plants and present the final strategy in next 3 weeks.

 Further, detailed deliberations were also made to bring BOD parameters within stipulated limits of 10 Mg/L. Chief Secretary asked PWSSB officials to inform all the STP operators to adhere to the conditions of the contract. The details pertaining to manpower, signage, STP monitoring parameters should be displayed at prominent location in the STPs by the operators. All the concerned officials should regularly visit STPs and record the findings in a Log-book to be maintained at all the STPs.

 Chief Secretary also asked PWSSB to complete the commissioning of all new 36 STPs within stipulated time. The meeting was attended by Mr. G. Vajralingam, Principal Secretary Science, Technology & Environment, Mr. K A P Sinha, Secretary Science, Technology & Environment, Mr. D K Tiwari, CEO PWSSB apart from other officials of the concerned departments.

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Sukhbir Badal seeks special trains from Punjab to connect holy pilgrimage sites in India

(Advises centre to run ten trains for Patna Sahib, Nanded Sahib, Varanashi, Pushkar and Ajmer)

(Calls on Union Railways Minister to work out modalities to facilitate 4 days pilgrimage)

(IRCTC offers to run special trains within 4-6 weeks)

 New Delhi/Chandigarh October 5 - Punjab Deputy Chief Minister Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal today impressed upon the Union Railways Minister Mr. Suresh Prabhakar Prabhu to run ten special trains from Punjab connecting prominent pilgrimage sites of India thereby fulfilling the aspirations of its people to visit holy and sacred places situated in the country. On the proposal of Mr Badal, Railways Minister has indicated that Indian Railway Catering & Tourism Corporation Ltd (IRCTC) could run these trains within 4-6 weeks.

                During the meeting, Mr. Badal apprised Union Railway Minister that the founder of Sikhism Guru Nanak Dev ji and other Gurus/Saints have also travelled across the country and sites like Patna Sahib, Nanded Sahib, New Delhi etc, are closely associated with the Gurus/Saints. “It is the wish of all Sikhs and Punjabis to visit these holy places at least once in a lifetime. Punjabis, who follows other religions/sects, also aspires to pay their obeisance at their sacred places like Varanashi, Ajmer, Bidar, Pushkar, etc.”, he added.

                Deputy CM put forth the proposal of Punjab to run ten special trains from different parts of state to facilitate its people to pay their obeisance at these holy and sacred sites. Union Railway Minister assured Mr. Badal that state Tourism Department in collaboration with Indian Railway Catering & Tourism Corporation Ltd (IRCTC) could run such special trains from Amritsar, Ferozepur, Gurdaspur and Chandigarh to holy places like Patna Sahib, Nanded Sahib, Varanashi, Pushkar and Ajmer.

                Mr. Suresh Prabhu informed that costs per person per day for such journeys would be approximately Rs 2100 which would include cost of trip, food, night stay at hotels and last mile connectivity to religious sites from railway stations through buses/taxis. Mr Badal also offered that last mile connectivity to these starting stations from all districts headquarters could also be provided.

 In the meeting Deputy CM proposed to make this facility free of costs for its pilgrims with total expected costs of Rs. 100 crores. He requested Union Railway Minister to grant minimum of 50 percent subsidy in the proposed venture which has been envisaged for the welfare of its citizens especially the elderly people.

                Prominent among others present in the meeting included Principal Secretary Forests Mr. Vishwajeet Khanna, Additional Resident Commissioner New Delhi Mr. Rahul Bhandari and Principal Chief Conservator of Forests Mr Kuldeep Kumar Lomis. EOM

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PUNJAB GOVERNMENT SUSPENDS MANGAL SINGH SANDHU

CHARGESHEETS DEPUTY DIRECTOR (COTTON EXTENSION) AND JOINT DIRECTOR AGRICULTURE

PROBE ORDERED BY CM POINTS SERIOUS IRREGULARITIES/VIOLATIONS IN PURCHASE OF PESTICIDES

BADAL REFERS REPORT TO DGP FOR FURTHER INVESTIGATION

Chandigarh, October 5-

          Punjab government has placed Director Agriculture Mr. Mangal Singh Sandhu under suspension with immediate effect and the Deputy Director (Cotton Extension) Mr. Parminder Singh and then Joint Director Agriculture Mr. Balwinder Singh Sohal have been charge sheeted as a major punishment under the Punjab Civil Services (Punishment and Appeal) Rules, 1970.

Disclosing this here today, a spokesperson of the Chief Minister’s Office said that this decision has been taken in wake of the enquiry report submitted to the Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal this evening. The Enquiry Officer has reported serious irregularities/violations in purchase of pesticides by the Director as a result the matter needs to be investigated further to ascertain reasons for such irregularities. Thus, the entire report has been referred to the Director General of Police (DGP) Punjab for further investigation since he has already constituted a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to look into spurious sale of pesticides in the state.

Divulging the details of the report, the spokesperson further revealed that the enquiry officer observed that then Director Agriculture preferred to purchase Oberan pesticide at his own level thus ignoring the orders of Agriculture Minister that too without examining it technically and adopting e-tendering process besides without seeking approval from the competent authority thereby exceeding his financial powers. The Chief Minister has further directed the Agriculture Department to take resolute action to punish the guilty at all costs. 

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BAJ 'Northern Goshawk' DECLARED STATE BIRD OF PUNJAB

Chandigarh, October5:

The Punjab Government has declared 'BAJ' 'Northern Goshawk', as‘State Bird of Punjab. A notification to this effect was issued by Punjab Government.

This was disclosed by an official spokesman. He said that this is in partial modification of notification issued on 15.03.1989.

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PUNJAB GOVERNMENT INSTRUCTS ALL DEPARTMENTS TO ISSUE ACKNOWLEDGEMENT RECEIPTS

· RECEIPTS TO BE ISSUED ON THE DAY OF ARRIVAL OF MAIL

CHANDIGARH, OCTOBER 5:  

            The Punjab Government has streamlined the process of receipt and disposal off Dak from public and asked all departments to implement public friendly transparent system. The Punjab Government has instructed all the departments to issue acknowledgement receipts on the day of the arrival of mail.

Stating this, a spokesperson of the General Administration Department said that the issue of non-issuance or delay in issuing the receipts was brought to the notice of Deputy Chief Minister, Punjab Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal during Sangat Darshan Programmes, subsequent to which the instructions were issued to give proper acknowledgement receipts along with date and stamp of the department concerned.

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INFORMATION SOUGHT ON VACANCIES IN VARIOUS DEPARTMENTS, TO BE SENT WITHIN 20 DAYS

CHANDIGARH, OCTOBER 5:

            The Punjab Government has instructed all the departments to send information regarding all vacancies in various departments so that action could be taken to initiate process of recruitment. .

            Disclosing this, a spokesperson of the Finance Department said that the state Government has sought information on the vacancies of Librarian, Assistant Librarian, Proof Reader and Watch & Ward Assistant within a span of 20 days and has sent written instructions to all the departments in this regard.

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CHIEF SECRETARY REVIEWS PREPARATIONS OF PROGRESSIVE PUNJAB INVESTORS SUMMIT AT ISB MOHALI

Chandigarh, October 5: 

The Chief Secretary, Punjab Mr. Sarvesh Kaushal today reviewed the preparations being made for the Progressive Punjab Investors’ Summit to be held on 28th and 29th October in ISB Campus Mohali.

While reviewing the preparations along with senior Government officials at ISB Campus Mohali, Chief Secretary reiterated that Progressive Punjab Investors Summit is a great platform for Punjab to showcase its strengths to attract business investments in the State. He appreciated the one-stop clearance system established by Department of Investment Promotion for ease of doing business in the State.

CEO Invest Punjab, Mr. Anirudh Tewari briefed the Chief Secretary about the structure of the summit, details of sessions, invitees, delegates, road shows and other details related to the Summit. Chief Secretary was further informed that confirmation of star corporate for participation in the summit has already been received and industry has shown a lot of enthusiasm to participate in the summit and to invest in Punjab.

 The review meeting was attended by Mr. Karan Avtar Singh, Additional Chief Secretary Investment Promotion, Mrs. Anjali Bhawra, Principal Secretary Tourism, Mr. Anirudh Tewari, CEO Invest Punjab, Mr. Amit Dhaka, MD PSIEC, Mr. T P S Sidhu, DC Mohali apart from officials from other concerned departments.

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9 NABBED RED HANDED IN GRAFT CASES DURING SEPTEMBER

 · VIGILANCE INITIATES 6 FRESH INQUIRIES DURING SEPTEMBER

· 4 CRIMINAL CASES WERE REGISTERED AGAINST CORRUPT EMPLOYEES

· 5 CHALLANS WERE FILED

· HON’BLE COURTS CONVICTED TWO IN 2 ANOTHER BRIBERY CASES

CHANDIGARH, October 5:

Intensifying its campaign to check the corruption in the government offices, the Punjab Vigilance Bureau, has been successful in nabbing 9 officers/officials red handed while accepting bribe in the month of September.

Punjab Vigilance Bureau has also initiated fresh Vigilance Inquiries in 6 other cases. Similarly Punjab Vigilance Bureau completed the probe and investigation in 5 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 September, 2015 the Vigilance Bureau besides apprehending 9 corrupt officers/officials also registered One criminal case in the month. He said that 6 cases 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 2 different cases of corruption, the Hon’ble courts pronounced sentence and convicted  2 persons in bribery cases.

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ADVISORY COMMITTEE FOR BIR MEHAS WILDLIFE SANCTUARY PATIALA CONSTITUTED

 Chandigarh, October 5:

The Punjab government has constituted an Advisory Committee for Bir Mehas Wild life Sanctuary Patiala to ensure its proper upkeep. The newly constituted committee would render advice on steps to be taken to improve the conservation and management of the sanctuary including participation of the persons living within and around the sanctuary.

Disclosing this here today a spokesman of the government said that the Conservator of Forest Parks and Protected area Circle Punjab would be the Chairman of the Committee. The other members would be Mr. Sadhu Singh, MLA Nabha, Mr. Isher Singh, Mrs.Mandeep Kaur and Mrs. Iqbal Kaur. Two members from Home and Veterinary departments respectively named Mr. Amrinder Singh and Mr. Santokh. Two representatives from Non Government Organization named Sandeep Singh and Mr. karamjeet Singh. Three members from the field of wild life conservation named Mr. Sarabjeet Singh, Gurbaz Singh and Mr. Sardara Singh. Mr. Abjinder Singh Grewal and Mr. Jeevan Dutt Shelly, Divisional Forest Officer Patiala would be the Member Secretary, added the Spokesman.

He said that the committee would meet at least once in three months and would submit its report to the Chief Wildlife Warden Punjab for further action.

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SANDHU ISSUES STRICT DIRECTIONS TO PROCURE 1509 BASMATI

   ·         PSCM Visits Amritsar mandis along with high-ups of various procurement agencies

·         Agencies told for timely and flawless procurement

 ·         Asks to initiate action against harvesting at night

 CHANDIGARH/RAYYA (Amritsar), October 5: Principal Secretary to Punjab Chief Minister Mr. S.K. Sandhu today visited the grain markets of district Amritsar to review the paddy procurement and held discussions with officers concerned, arthiyas and farmers.

        Reviewing arrangements with his start from Rayya grain market, Mr. Sandhu said the state was committed to lift every single grain of farmers besides asking procurement agencies to procure and ensure timely lifting of 1509 Basmati variety. Mr. Sandhu, who met farmers sitting besides the heaps of their crops, assured them that state has made elaborated procurement arrangements and their every single grain will be procured and lifted.

           The officers of Mandi Board department apprised Principal Secretary that in Amritsar district about 1.5 lakh tones of 1509 Basmati variety was expected to arrive in Amritsar mandis this season with 80000 tonnes arrival till date. Mr. Sandhu asked the officers to initiate the lifting process of procured paddy to avert any congestion or chaos in the mandis of the district.  

          Answering a query of media persons at Rayya mandi, Mr. Sandhu said that the procurement was going on in smooth and hassle free manner and any lapse has not been reported in the procurement process. He informed that till date Rayya mandi has witnessed arrival of 6000 tonnes of 1509 basmati which had been procured.             

          Referring to the issue of moisture content in the basmati, Mr. Sandhu urged farmers to bring their produce in requisite dryness. He also asked Deputy Commissioner Mr. Ravi Bhagat to initiate action against those allowing operation of combines in their field during night hours.

           Mr. Sandhu, was accompanied by senior IAS officers, MD Markfed Mr. Gurkirat Kirpal Singh, MD Punsup Captain P.S. Shergill, MD Warehouse Mr. A.S. Bains, Secretary Mandi Board Mr. Deepinder Singh and Deputy Commissioner Mr. Ravi

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UNBUS AND PUNJAB ROADWAYS T0 GET CHEAPER

DIESEL FROM IOC

 MOU SIGNED BETWEEN PUNBUS AND INDIAN OIL CORPORATION

CHANDIGARH, OCTOBER 04:

PUNBUS and Punjab Roadways today signed an agreement with M/s Indian Oil Corporation Limited (IOCL) for discount of Rs.1.05 paisa per litre  for five years on supply of Diesel to both organisations.

While disclosing this spokesman of Punjab Roadways said that Punbus and Punjab Roadways have successfully negotiated diesel rates and finalised a discount of Rs.1.05 paisa per litre for 5 years on the existing diesel rates.

He said that this discount is one of the highest discount offered by IOC to State Transport Undertakings in the region and will result in a saving of over Rs. 19.00 crores. He said that an agreement was signed between Mr. Ashwani Kumar , IAS, Director State Transport, Punjab- cum' Managing Director PUNBUS and Mr. Prem Kumar, Chief Divisional Consumer Sales Marketing , Chandigarh of M/s Indian Oil Corporation. The agreement was signed in the office of Director State Transport,Punjab and will be effective for a period of 5 years w.e.f. 01.07.2015.

He further said that M/s India Oil Corporation Limited has also agreed to provide additional infrastructure like digital tyre inflators and online diesel monitoring dispensing units for effective monitoring of diesel, which will help reduce pilferage and result in saving to Punjab Roadways and Punbus.

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Verka celebrated “World School Milk Day”

Chandigarh, October 04:

Verka celebrated “World School Milk day” with students of Ryan International. It organized a plant visit for the students to educate them about the milk processing. The students also participated in the drawing competition to mark the day. The theme of the competition was "Milk- a glassful of health". Three winners won gift hampers from verka.

 Disclosing this here today  a spokesman of the Milkfed, Punjab said that Over 40 countries around the world celebrate World School Milk day to celebrate the health benefits of school milk programs.

 Speaking on the Occasion, Mr. J.K Gupta, General Manager, Mohali plant, verkaSaid, and “Schools play an important role in inculcating healthy habits in the students. All schools should start milk programs to encourage milk consumption in the students. If young children to encouraged to makemilk a part of their diet, then they are likely to continue it in adulthood. Milk is rich in calcium, protein and vitamin D which help in child’s growing bones and teeth.”

 Giving more details  Mr Gupta said that verka is the flagship brand of MILKFED and came into being in 1973 when MILKFED was mandated for the milk procurement, quality processing of milk and its products; and marketing of these products. “Verka” was christened after the name of the place where the first plant was setup in Amritsar.

 He further said that Verka has a wide range of products including different variants of Pasteurized Packed milk, Ghee, Table Butter, Skimmed Milk Powder, Whole Milk Powder, Cheese, Tetra Pack Products, Sweetened Flavored Milk, Ice Cream, Fresh Products like Lassi, Paneer, Dahi, Kheer, Indigenous Sweets. The products are available in Punjab, Haryana, Himachal, Jammu and Kashmir and Northeast India. verka also exports ghee to countries like Middle east, Australia, Japan, New Zealand and Malaysia.

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 DR ATWAL TO REPRESENT INDIA IN CPA LONDON MEET

CHANDIGARH, OCTOBER 04:

 Dr.Charnjit Singh Atwal, Speaker, Punjab Vidhan Sabha has left for  London to attend the meeting of the Executive Committee of Commonwealth Parliamentary Association.

Disclosing this here today, a spokesman of Punjab Vidhan Sabha said that this is a matter of great pride for the State of Punjab as well as for the entire country, that Dr. Atwal will represent India not only as a member of the International Executive Committee of CPA but also as a Regional Representative of the entire CPA India Region which includes many countries of Indian sub continent.

 

The rigorous sessions of the four day meeting at Westminster, London will primarily focus on the various subjects relating to International Parliamentary  Working alongside other vital areas of developmental importance.

 

He further said that Dr. Atwal will, thereafter proceed for study tour to Austria, France and Canada where he is expected to meet the Parliamentarians and Legislators of the respective States to find out workable solutions and mutually benefitting ideas for the Socio-Political and Economic development of India.

He will also meet the people of Indian Origin, especially the NRIs from Punjab in order to encourage them to Invest in various sectors of Punjab and motivate them to contribute in the progress and development of their motherland, added the spokesman.

No. PR-15/1210

 

 

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UB GROUP OF CMs HEADED BY BADAL BATS FOR REORIENTING AND STRENGTHENING THE ROLE OF THE STATE SKILL DEVELOPMENT MISSIONS

SUBMITS REPORT TO PM

ADVOCATES THREE-TIER STRUCTURE OF THE SSDM AT THE STATE, DISTRICT AND BLOCK LEVEL

STATES TO EXPLORE ENACTING A  LEGISLATION ON RIGHT OF YOUTH TO SKILL DEVELOPMENT

LOCAL BODY FUNCTIONARIES TO HELP IN CREATING DATABASE OF YOUTH FOR SKILL TRAINING

RECOMMENDS EARMARKING HALF OF THE 2 PERCENT CSR EXCLUSIVELY TOWARDS SKILL DEVELOPMENT

Chandigarh, October 3-

The Sub-Group of Chief Ministers on Skill Development of NITI Aayog headed by the Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal had underscored the need for reorienting and strengthening the role of the State Skill Development Missions (SSDMs) so that the skill initiatives could be taken down upto the district and block level and improve the outreach of skill development.

In its report submitted to the Prime Minister Mr. Narendra Modi recently, the sub group had proposed that a three-tier structure of the SSDM at the state, district and block level should be constituted to facilitate the outreach. The Report has also recommended pooling of resources at the state level and prioritizing on the skills including traditional skills relevant to the states. Focus was laid on strengthening industry coordination with SSDMs through the involvement of Sector Skill Councils and industry conglomerates operating in the states. The states have been impressed upon to explore enacting a legislation on Right of Youth to Skill Development as was done by the Government of Chhattisgarh.

To address the shortage of trainers in the skill space the Report recommends involving retired defence/government personnel, para military personnel, teachers etc. in providing skill training. Besides, the infrastructure available with Railways, educational institutions could be used for providing skill training in the rural and remote areas. The private sector should be encouraged to make available their shop floor as well as manpower for skill training.

To extend the outreach of skill training to women the report has recommended developing flexible timing in modular training programmes to facilitate women who could not afford longer training particularly in the rural areas. Training programmes in non-conventional trades, such as plumbing, electrician, etc as well as in life skills to be provided to encourage women to enter the labour market.

The Report has recommended local body functionaries to help in creating database of youth for skill training. The functionaries could be assigned additional duty of door to door campaign, parents counseling and listing of unemployed youth for skilling. A mechanism should be devised whereby success stories / innovative measures taken by different states were documented, shared, and up-scaled and replicated on a regular basis by local bodies/NGOs.

The sub group had advocated that to spread awareness free to air skill and employment related channels should be started. Local T.V. channels could run scrolls about vocational training providers and schemes while showing films etc. Railway stations, bus services including bus stations, public institutions could be used as advertising venues for skilling and job-related advertisements. Magazines and newspapers for skilling and employment related opportunities may be published periodically. Free SMS services to inform job aspirants regarding job and skilling opportunities.

To generate resources for skilling, re-skilling and up-skilling the 50 crore plus labour force by 2022 the Report recommends a series of measures such as earmarking half of the 2 percent CSR exclusively towards skill development. The cess collected under the Building and other Construction Workers Cess Act, 1996 was presently lying under-utilized which could be used for skill development of  underprivileged youth irrespective of whether or not they were wards of construction workers. Among the other alternatives recommended by the Report for raising resources include making Public Training Institutions revenue generating, using the funds under MPLADs/MLALADs for creating infrastructure for skill development, funds generated under education cess could be used for introducing vocational education from secondary school onwards.

The Report also recommends that the Ministry of Skill Development & Entrepreneurship should make a budget provision for all states to set up Skill Universities or convert one of their existing Universities as a Skill University under PPP mode.

It may be recalled that the sub group was constituted in pursuance of the first meeting of the Governing Council of NITI Aayog held on February 8, 2015 by the Prime Minister. The Sub-Group which was notified on March 24 consisted of Chief Ministers of Assam, Chhattisgarh, Goa, Gujarat, Himachal Pradesh, Meghalaya, Odisha, Punjab, Puducherry, Tamil Nadu and Tripura with Chief Minister of Punjab as the Convener of the Sub Group. The Group had five meetings including a meeting of the Central Ministries implementing skill development schemes, regional consultation at Shillong involving the North Eastern & Eastern States, and a consultation at Raipur involving the other States including non-members.

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PUNJAB GOVERNMENT COMMITTED TO BUY EVERY SINGLE GRAIN FROM THE FARMERS

Ø LAUNCHES HELPLINE NUMBERS FOR ONGOING KHARIF SEASON 2015-16

Ø ENTIRE PROCESS BEING MONITORED ONLINE

Ø SPECIAL GRIEVANCES CELL SET UP

Chandigarh October 3: The Punjab government was determined to purchase and lift every grain of paddy from markets across the state. The state government machinery was fully geared up for the smooth operation. Payments would be made to the farmers within the time schedule fixed by the government of India.

Stating this here today an official spokesman of the government said that in order to facilitate farmers during the ongoing Kharif Season 2015-16, the Punjab government has also launched a helpline in the directorate of Food and Civil Supplies here in Chandigarh.

         He said that the helpline has been set up aiming at providing instant relief to the farmers if facing any difficulty during the procurement season. The helpline would be functional from morning 8 till 11 at night and anybody including the farmers, commission agent, Sheller owner, transporter, labour or even amongst public could contact and register their grievances and suggestion regarding the paddy procurement process  on this helpline.

         Giving details of contact numbers and email ids, he said that the phone number 0172-2702120, 0172-2703535 and 0172 -2702356 would be remained functional while e-mails could be sent onhelplinefoodsupply.pb@gmail.com.

         Besides this all the 22 districts would also be having District Food and supplies Controllers as the Nodal Officers. According to the spokesman the entire procurement process was being monitored online. A special grievances cell has also been set up which would look into the grievances of the people relating to the paddy procurement and resolve the issues instantaneously.

         Issuing fresh guidelines to the farmers bringing their produce in the market, the Punjab government has advised them to bring dry and clean grains in order to avoid moisture content which tends to increase when the crop is wet.

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FINANCE MINISTER ALONG WITH HIGH POWERED COMMITTEE VISITS NEW SOUTH WALES

- CALLS ON PREMIER MIKE BEARD, GATHERED INFORMATION ON GST

 Chandigarh October 3:

            The high powered committee comprising of the Finance Ministers of various states including Punjab today visited New South Wales and Sydney. The High Powered Committee along with Fianance Minister Punjab Mr. Parminder Singh Dhindsa was visiting Australia to study the Tax system of that country.  They also called on the Premier Mike Beard and gathered detailed information on the GST system enforced in Australia.

               Disclosing this here today an official spokesman of the government said that the Indian government was contemplating to implement GST after minutely studying the pros and cons of this system. The information gathered by the visiting delegation was considered to be vital in this connection, he added.

               Meanwhile the visiting delegation also visited the Parliament of New South Wales along with the Premier Mike Beard and his cabinet colleagues. Later they also visited Canberra. It may be recalled that this delegation was on an official visit to Australia to study VAT and GST systems implemented in Australia and would submit a complete report regarding this to Government of India.

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STATE GOVERNMENT WOULD LIFT EVERY SINGLE GRAIN OF PADDY IN A SMOOTH AND HASSLE FREE MANNER- CM

TERMS THAT SAD WAS, IS AND WOULD EVER REMAIN COMMITTED FOR CAUSE OF FARMERS

ANY SAD WORKER COULD SACRIFICE EVERY SINGLE DROP OF BLOOD IN HIM TO PROTECT EVEN A DROP OF SWEAT OF FARMER

BLAMES CONGRESS FOR BREAKING BACKBONE OF THE FARMERS

CONGRESS PARTY COULD NEVER BE FORGIVEN FOR SINS LIKE OPERATION BLUE STAR AND 1984 SIKH CARNAGE

PUNJAB IMMENSELY BENEFITTED FROM NDA RULE

AAP HAS NO IDEOLOGY

SCHEME FOR COMPREHENSIVE DEVELOPMENT OF STATE ON CARDS

GUILTY WOULD NOT BE SPARED IN PEST SCAM

MAJITHIA SLAMS CONGRESS FOR SOCIAL MALADIES CONFRONTED BY COUNTRY

ATTACKS CONGRESS, AAP FOR POLITICIZING AGRARIAN CRISIS

HAILS BADAL FOR PRO-FARMER STANCE

HOPES THAT NDA WOULD IMPLEMENT SWAMINTHAN COMMISSION REPORT

Khadoor Sahib (Tarn Taran), October 2-

          Terming that the Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) was, is and would ever remain committed for the cause of the farmers’, the Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today said that the state government would lift every single grain of Paddy in a smooth and hassle free manner, during the ongoing marketing season.

          Addressing a mammoth gathering during a religious congregation to mark the Gurta Gaddi Diwas of Sri Guru Angad Dev ji here today, the Chief Minister said that only and only SAD was worried about the interests of the farmers and every effort had been made to safeguard them at any cost. He categorically said that any SAD worker could happily sacrifice every single drop of blood in him to protect even a single drop of sweat of farmer in the state. Mr. Badal said that the state government had made elaborate arrangements to ensure that the harvest of farmers was lifted from the grain markets in a smooth and hassle free manner adding that farmer would not be allowed to face any sort of problem while selling their produce.

The Chief Minister further said that it was on record that whenever the farmers of the state had faced any sort of problem the SAD-BJP alliance government has always came to their rescue. Citing the examples, he said that during the last more than eight years the state government has provided free power to farmers worth Rs 28000 crore otherwise their problems would have accentuated manifolds on account of tube well bills. Likewise, he said that the state government took every step to resolve the impending sugarcane crisis by ensuring the payment of arrears to the farmers from private and cooperative sugar mills. Mr. Badal said that even now the state government has issued funds to the tune of Rs 644 crore to compensate the farmers who have suffered huge loss due to pest attack on Cotton  crop in Malwa region.

Lashing out at the Congress party for the plight of Farmer's across the country, the Chief Minister said that the successive Congress governments at the centre had broken the backbone of the peasantry. Mr. Badal said that due to the regressive policies of these governments the farmers were reeling under a whopping debt of Rs 32000 crore. However, he said that after breaking the backbone of the farmers the Congress leaders were now shedding crocodile tears on agrarian crisis for their vested political interests.

Taking the Congress party to cudgels, the Chief Minister said that the Punjabis in general and Sikh community in particular could never forgive the Congress party for its sins against Punjab. Mr. Badal said that how could the Sikh community forget sins of Congress like Operation Blue Star and 1984 anti-Sikh carnage, which have inflicted deep wounds on the Sikh psyche. He further bemoaned that the Congress governments at the centre had deliberately denied the state of Punjabi speaking areas, its capital Chandigarh and even its legitimate share in river waters.

The Chief Minister said that though one year’s period was very less to evaluate the performance of any government but then also Punjab had been immensely benefitted from the NDA’s rule at centre. He said that within a year of the formation of the NDA government at centre the state has got key projects like AIIMS, IIM, Post Graduate Institute of Horticulture Research and HRIDAY status for holy city of Amritsar, which would ensure massive inflow of funds for development of the holy city.

Later on interacting with the media persons, the Chief Minister said that the infighting amongst the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leaders in the state has exposed the face of this party. He said that the party had no concrete program or ideology adding that they were misleading the people with hollow slogans.

The Chief Minister further said that he would be holding series of meetings with the MLA of every assembly segment from tomorrow to finalize the roadmap for holistic development of the state. He said that a major scheme to ensure comprehensive development of rural and urban areas was on cards.

Replying to another query, the Chief Minister said that anyone found guilty of supplying spurious pesticides to the cotton cultivators in the state would not be spared at any cost. Mr. Badal said that he had already asked the Special Secretary Agriculture to submit a detailed report on this contentious matter by September 30. Likewise, the Chief Minister said that he had already ordered an enquiry to fix the responsibility of the erring officials and dealers involved in the sale of spurious pesticides by a Special Investigation Team (SIT) of Police comprising three Inspector Generals of Police (IGPs) under the direct supervision of Additional Director General of Police (ADGP) Crime.

Earlier addressing the gathering Cabinet Minister Mr Bikram Singh Majithia slammed the Congress party for ignoring the interests of the countrymen during their nearly 48 years long rule.  He said that the country was still facing a number of social maladies due to misrule of Congress party especially Gandhi family.  On the other hand Mr. Majithia said that Punjab had scripted new success story under the able and far sighted leadership of Chief Minister who was serving the state zealously from last more than 60 years. He said that due to concerted efforts of Chief Minister Punjab was today the only power surplus state in the country adding that right from supplying free power to solving major crisis of farmers the state government has always extended a helping hand to the farmers. 

Assailing the Congress party and AAP for shedding crocodile tears over agrarian issues, the Minister said that these parties were trying to get political mileage over the plight of farmers.  He said that while the top brass of Congress in the state was shamelessly squabbling for power of party, on the other hand AAP had drifted away from its basic ideology.  Mr. Majithia said that it was on record that Delhi was having the highest tax structure in the country due to which people were reeling under burden of AAP’s misrule. 

The Minister expressed hope that the NDA government at centre would soon implement the recommendations of Swaminathan Commission to bail out farmers from the crisis.  He said that as the ex-servicemen have been given their due by implementing one Rank One Pension scheme in the same manner the interests of Farmer's would also be secured by implementing the recommendations of renowed agri-scientist.

In his address Lok Sabha MP Jathedar Ranjit Singh Brahmpura lauded the Chief Minister for taking historic initiatives for safeguarding the interests of the farmers of the state.  Recalling the long history of SAD in fighting for the interests of the state, Jathedar Brahmpura said that only this party could secure the interests of Punjab and Punjabis. He exhorted the people to not get swayed away with hollow slogans of other party and strengthen SAD by supporting it.

Prominent amongst other who were present on the occasion included Chief Parliamentary Secretary Prof Virsa Singh Valtoha,  MLA Mr Manjit Singh Mianwind, Chairman District Planning Committee Tarn Taran Mr Ravinder Singh Brahmpura, Chairman District Planning Committee Amritsar Mr Veer Singh Lopoke, President Shiromani Akali Dal Tarn Taran Mr Arvinderpal Singh Pakhoke, Inspector General of Police Mr Lok Nath Angra, Deputy Inspector General of Police Kunwar Vijay Partap and Special Principal Secretary to Chief Minister Dr S Karunaraju.   

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CM ASKS PEOPLE TO BE VIGILANT FROM THE NEFARIOUS DESIGNS OF ANTI-SOCIAL ELEMENTS

·       BLAMES CONGRESS FOR ANTI-FARMER POLICIES AND DESTROYING PEASANTRY IN THE STATE

·       SAD-BJP GOVERNMENT ALWAYS AT THE SERVICE OF FARMERS

·       SUKHBIR PRAISES CM FOR SAFEGUARDING INTERESTS OF ALL SECTIONS OF SOCIETY

·       ANNOUNCES ANOTHER CASHLESS HEALTH INSURANCE SCHEME UP TO Rs. 50,000

FOR FARMERS

·       ALL VILLAGES AND TOWNS TO BE PROVIDED WITH BASIC CIVIC AMENITIES AT A COST OF Rs. 10,000 CRORE

·       RULES OUT AAP AS ANY THREAT TO SAD-BJP ALLIANCE

·       BHAGAT PURAN SINGH SEHAT BIMA YOJNA FOR CASHLESS TREATMENT FOR BLUE CARD HOLDER FAMILIES LAUNCHED

·       RS. 180 CRORE ROPAR BYPASS DEDICATED TO THE PEOPLE

 

Rupnagar, October 2

        Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today asked the people of Punjab to be wary of nefarious designs of anti-social elements that were hell bent upon disturb the hard earned peace, communal harmony and amity in the state. At the same time, Mr. Badal reiterated that none would be allowed to disturb the congenial atmosphere in the state at any cost.

        Addressing a mammoth gathering here at a state level function after launching Bhagat Puran Singh Sehat Bima Yojna (BPSSBY) for Blue Card Holders (BCH) families and dedicating Rs. 180 crore Rupnagar Bypass along with Deputy Chief Minister Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal, the Chief Minister cautioned the people not to be swayed by the false propaganda of such divisive and anti-social elements who were trying to incite them thereby pushing Punjab-an oasis of peace and harmony once again into fire because none else could better understood than Punjabis the agony and pain which they suffered during the black days of militancy.  

Lashing at the Congress for ruining the peasantry, the Chief Minister said that its leadership was now shedding crocodile tears over the plight of farmers who suffered substantial loss to their cotton crop in Malwa belt due to sudden attack from white fly instead of extending helping hand to them in this hour of crisis. He said it was the SAD-BJP government which was concerned about their problems and ever stood by them in difficult times. He said that our government not only released Rs. 640 crore as compensation for the cotton growers but also released Rs. 700 crore for the cane growers. He mentioned that SAD-BJP government fully sensitized to the agrarian issues and thus it was giving free power to farmers despite severe criticism from several quarters including the previous Congress led UPA government. He said the state government was bearing annual expenditure of nearly Rs. 5000 crore on this count and our government has reimbursed Rs. 28,000 crore to the PSPCL so far as power subsidy in the agriculture sector since we took over in 2007.

The Chief Minister said that SAD was the oldest political party which was well versed with problems of all sections of the society and the launch of today’s BPSSBY is an outcome of this philosophy as our alliance government was committed to be always in the service of mankind rather than to rule over the masses. He said this scheme would cover 28.05 lac BCH families and would be given a facility of cashless treatment up to Rs. 30,000 in 214 government and 216 empanelled private hospitals in state. Mr. Badal further said that the state government would soon launch cashless health insurance scheme for our 6.50 lac state employees and pensioners at a cost of Rs. 107 crore, which have already been approved by the State Cabinet.

  Responding to the demands of the people in Ropar Assembly Constituency raised the local MLA and Education Minister Dr. Daljit Singh Cheema, the Chief Minister agreed to get the construction of Bus Stand started at the earliest. He also announced the strengthening and widening of Ropar-Katli road up to Ropar Thermal Plant linking nearly 25 villages. He also gave approval for the construction of Purkhali-Bardar Road to link industrial town of Baddi in Himachal Pradesh. Likewise, he also announced Rs. 34 lac for the developments works in Village Bainsa where 34 persons of this village attained martyrdom. Mr. Badal also announced that the remaining sewerage work in the Rupnagar town would be completed at a cost of Rs. 22 crore as Rs. 45 crore had already been spent on this project.

    In his address, the Deputy Chief Minister Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal said that it was a historic occasion that our government has launched this unique scheme to ensure quality health care facilities free of cost to the economically poor. He also announced that Punjab government would soon launch another cashless health scheme for the farmers up to Rs. 50,000 in government and empanelled private hospitals. This scheme would prove to be a boon for the farming community to get the best medical and diagnostic facilities free of cost in the nearby hospitals.  

        Appreciating the Chief Minister for taking pro-people initiatives for everyone be it farmers, traders, employees and above all the unprivileged sections of the society, Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal said that this was only feasible because the Chief Minister could always feel the pulse of the people as a mass leader because there was hardly any village or mandi where he has not visited.

        The Deputy Chief Minister announced that the Punjab government would soon undertake a massive development program both in rural and urban areas thereby providing basic civic amenities of drinking water, sewerage, roads and street lights in all the villages and towns/cities at cost of Rs. 6000 crore and Rs. 4000 crore respectively.

         Taking to the media persons, the Deputy Chief Minister said that he offered his best wishes to Captain Amarinder Singh for forming a new political party.

        To another question about the prospects of AAP, Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal said that now it was no more Aam Aadmi Party rather it has become Khaas Aadmi Party, which was evident from its deeds. He said this party was being run by only one person on the model of dictatorship regardless of showing any respect for democratic norms. Ruling out AAP as any threat to SAD-BJP alliance, he said AAP could never be a political alternative in Punjab as it was without any agenda, program, vision and moreover it was party sans sincere leadership.

        Earlier in his welcome address, the Education Minister Dr. Daljit Singh Cheema as a local MLA highlighted the problems of the people in his constituency and sought personal intervention of Chief Minister for their early resolution.

        Prominent amongst who were present on the occasion included Member Rajya Sabha Mr. Sukhdev Singh Dhindsa, Member Lok Sabha from Sri Anandpur Sahib Prof. Prem Singh Chandumajra, Cabinet Minister Jathedar Tota Singh, Chief Parliamentary Secretary Chaudary Nand Lal, SGPC member Amarjit Singh Chawla, former MLA Mrs. Satwant Kaur Sandhu, Mr. Arvind Mittal son of Cabinet Minister Mr. Madan Mohan Mittal besides Additional Chief Secretary   Mr. NS Kalsi, Principal Secretary Health Mrs. Vinni Mahajan, Secretary Health and Medical Education Mr. Hussan Lal, Special Principal Secretary to CM Dr. SK Raju, Special Principal Secretary to Deputy Chief Minister Mr. Manvesh Singh Sidhu and Deputy Commissioner Rupnagar Mrs. Tanu Kashyap.

 

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DIRECTOR GENERAL OF INTERNATIONAL MAIZE AND WHEAT IMPROVEMENT CENTRE CALLS ON CHIEF MINISTER

·        BADAL ASKS DG TO SET UP ‘DEMO FARMS’ IN THE DIFFERENT PARTS OF THE STATE TO FACILITATE FARMERS WITH THE SCIENTIFIC RESEARCH IN DIFFERENT AGRO-CLIMATIC ZONES

·        BISA TO ESTABLISH LUDHIANA AS ITS HEADQUARTERS

·        CM OFFERS FULSOME SUPPORT AND COOPERATION OF THE STATE

·        HOPES THE INSTITUTE WOULD  PROVE TO BE A MILE STONE IN HERALDING THE SECOND GREEN REVOLUTION

 CHANDIGARH OCTOBER 2:-

A high level delegation led by Dr. Martin Kropff, Director General of International Maize and Wheat Improvement Centre (CIMMYT) today called on Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal to apprise him the progress of the prestigious Centre of ‘Borlaug Institute for South Asia’ (BISA) that was being established in the state at Ludhiana under the auspices of Mexico-based International Maize and Wheat Improvement Centre (CIMMYT).

          Disclosing this here today a spokesperson of the Chief Minister’s office said that during the meeting Mr. Badal impressed upon the DG CIMMYT that the infrastructure for the cutting edge research relating to varietal development and climate change must be created on priority. CM also asked Director General to make each unit functional simultaneously as its Infrastructure being raised instead of waiting the constructional of entire Institution and then made it functional.  He also hoped that this Institute would prove to be a mile stone to herald the second green revolution by encouraging the value added crops like Maize, Basmati and Oil seeds ultimately helping our farmers to come out of the rut of wheat-paddy cycle. At the same time the Chief Minister assured them fulsome support from the Punjab Government and also to personally take up the matter with the Union Government for the easy and adequate fund flow for the creation of infrastructure at the Ladowal (Ludhiana).

 The Director General Dr. Martin Kropff informed the Chief Minister that considering the strong desire and concern of Mr. Badal to improve the financial condition of state’s agriculture sector by bailing out the beleaguered farmers, who had been plummeting financially day by day because of non- remunerative price of their produce, the BISA had decided to setup their headquarter at Ludhiana after the entire construction work would be completed. Expressing his gratitude to the Chief Minister for all the help and Cooperation from the state government side, he said that they have already initiated the research work at various levels with the help of PAU Ludhiana to develop new verity crops of better yield with less consumption of water besides preserving soil health by enhancing the Nitrogen contents in it.

Expressing satisfaction over the progress ,Mr. Badal impressed upon the BISA to set up ‘Demo Farms’ in the different parts of the state so that scientific research in different agro-climatic zones could actually benefit the farmers thereby enhancing the quality and productivity of different crops.

Besides CIMMYT’s Director General, Dr. Martin Kropff, Mrs. Nynke Kropff, Dr. John Snape, Dr. Thomas A Lumpkin (all from CIMMYT) and Dr. H.S Gupta, DG, BISA was included in the delegation. On the other hand Financial Commissioner Development Mr. Suresh Kumar, Special Principal Secretary to the Chief Minister Mr. Gaggandip Singh Brar, and Chief Soil Conservator Dr. BS Sidhu were also present during the meeting.

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168 HELPLINE AND E- STAMPING RESULTS IN TRANSPARENCY & EFFCIENCY IN REVENUE DEPARTMENT- MAJITHIA

·       YOUTH AKALI DAL MEMBERSHIP DRIVE RECEIVES HUGE RESPONSE FROM YOUNGSTERS

·        ANNOUNCES RS. 5 LAKH FOR THE WELFARE OF STUDENTS TO RAM NAUMI UTHSAV COMMITTEE

Jalandhar, October 2

Punjab Revenue & Public Relations Minister Mr. Bikram Singh Majithia today said that new initiatives in the form of 168 helpline and E stamping have resulted in more transparency and accountability in the Revenue department at the bottom level  as both these steps have empowered  the common man in a big way.

Presiding over here a function organized by the Ram Naumi Utsav Committee for disbursing scholarships to students, the Minister said that the after making the whole land record of the state online, this path breaking initiative was fully aimed bring transparency besides information on land records on the finger tips of every individual around the globe by launching a most comprehensive 24x7 helpline.

This helpline has been divided in three parts as in first part one can seek information regarding land records and registration of deed. In the second part, anyone by simply making a phone call get latest information/update regarding various cases in Revenue department, information regarding solutions to problems being faced with Revenue department besides latest information about the mutation, transfer of khasra girdawri & demarcation of land. Similarly, in third part one can register his complaint regarding Revenue department and any Revenue officer. Inquiry/Status/Complaint will be registered and unique number will be provided to the caller. The helpline was available between 7.00 am to 7.00 pm and for NRI complainants, it will be available round the clock, he added.

Talking about the outcome of E-stamping, he said that this decision has resulted in cost savings and user friendly as the authenticity of   e-stamps certificates could be checked any time anywhere. Replying to a question about the membership drive of Youth Akali Dal, Mr. Majithia said that these drive has received a huge response and the whole process was fully transparent as the track record, full address verification of the members to be included in the Youth Akali Dal were being verified.

Hailing the role of Ram Naumi Utsav Committee for social welfare, he also announced a grant of Rs. 5 Lakh for the student welfare to the Ram Naumi Committee.

 Later on the Cabinet Ministers Mr. Chunni Lal Bhagat, Sikander Singh Maluka, Sohan Singhd Thandal , CPS K.D. Bhnadari and Pawan Kumar Tinnu, MP Avinash Rai Khanna, Advisor to Chief Minister Tikshan Sood, BJP President Kamal Sharma have also attended the function.

Prominent amongst present President CPS Pawan Kumar Tinnu,  Ram Naumi Utsav Committee Vijay Chopra, Master Mohan Lal Former Minister , Youth Akali Dal President Doaba Zone Sarbjot Singh Sabhi, District Planning Committee Chairman Gurcharan Singh Channi, Parminder Brar, IT Incharge, former Improvement trust chairman Baljit Singh Neela Mahal  and ADC (D) Kumar Amit.

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