BADAL HONOURS ARMY OFFICERS AND JAWANS OFBOMB DISPOSAL UNIT FOR SUCCESS OF OPERATION SAIYAM

CHANDIGARH APRIL 7:

Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today honored 27 Officers and Jawans of Bomb Disposal Unit of Indian Army for successfully conducting 'Operation Saiyam' - a unique Army operation to defuse about 20,000 unexploded dangerous bombs of about 50 tones that had arrived in waist steel scrap at Dry Port of Dhandari Kalan (Ludhiana) thereby preventing any possible disaster in the civil areas in and around Ludhiana.
The Chief Minister was presiding over a Civil and Military Liaison Conference organized by the Punjab Government here at Punjab Bhawan this morning. While addressing a galaxy of senior Officers of Defence and Civilian authorities, Mr. Badal highly appreciated the role of Army in extending timely and all out support to the civil administration during any such emergency. Mr. Badal also assured to extend fulsome support and coordination to the Army from state government .
Responding to the various issues raised by the Army authorities, the Chief Minister said that the state government had agreed in principle to resolve the problem of the flood water at Chandigarh Air Port by providing adequate drainage facility. He also mentioned that necessary instructions had already been issued to the Drainage Department.
Mr. Badal also approved Rs. 13.75 crore project for providing water supply facility at Military Station Fazilka. He further announced that Rs. 84 lac would be spent for civil sewage disposal at Air force Station Pathankot to avoid any incident of air crash due to bird hit.
Speaking on the occasion, General Officer Commanding-in-Chief (GOC-in-C) Western Command Lt. General S R Ghosh complimented the Chief Minister for the prompt resolution of the pending issues through taking personal initiative. He assured Mr. Badal on behalf of Western Command to extend full cooperation to the civil administration in fighting natural calamities in future too. He hoped for a further better understanding and cooperation besides the need for a coordinated approach between the civil and military authorities in the larger interest of the society.
On this occasion GOC-in-C was accompanied by Chief of Staff, HQ Western Command Lt. General Baljeet Singh, VSM, Major General Staff (SD) R.G. Krishnan VSM, Major General Operations Logistic John George and Chief Engineer HQ Manik Sabharwal SM.
Prominent amongst others who attended the conference included, Chief Secretary S.C Agrawal, Principal Secretary to Chief Minister Mr. DS Guru, Principal Secretary Home Mr. DS Bains, Special Principal Secretary to the Chief Minister Mr. KJS Cheema, MD PIDB Dr. Sukhbir Singh Sandhu and Diectror General of Police Mr. P.S. Gill, besides other senior functionaries of the state administration.
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BADAL WRITES PM: DEMANDS MSP OF WHEAT TO BE INCREASED FROM RS. 1120/- TO RS. 1480/- PER QUINTAL

Chandigarh April 7:-
Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today sought personal intervention of Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh to immediately enhance the Minimum Support Price (MSP) of Wheat from Rs. 1120/- to Rs. 1480/- per quintal.
In a letter to the Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh, Mr. Badal urged the Center to help in improving the economic lot of the farmers thereby by recommending a minimum hike of Rs. 480/- per quintal in the MSP of Wheat to raise it to Rs. 1480/- from the 1120/- per quintal.
Mr. Badal reiterated that the farming population must not be allowed to feel ignored and left out of the current growth rate of India.
The Chief Minister pleaded this price should cover all operating costs including family labour and rent plus 50% margin. Current Minimum Support Price (MSP) for wheat does not cover the above cost and margin in full. The land rent prevalent in the state at present varies between Rs. 25,000/- to Rs. 30,000/- per acre/year, the share for wheat crop works out approximately Rs. 12,000/- while fixing MSP during 2007-08, the Commission for Agricultural cost and Prices had included about Rs. 6000/- as rent per acre. The MSP for that crop year was Rs. 1000/- per quintal. Since then, costs on two accounts have increased; i) operating cost, ii) increase in the land rent. The operating costs since then has increased by about 50% (Rs. 2800/- per acre for wheat) and the rent has increased by 6600/- per acre. The MSP for 2010-11 should have covered an additional cost of Rs. 6000/- + 2800/- i.e. 8800/- per acre. With an average yield of 18 quintal per acre, the increase in MSP of wheat should have been about Rs. 480/- pre quintal raising it to Rs. 1480 per quintal instead of Rs. 1120 per quintal fixed by the Government of India.
The Chief Minister pointed out that the state have about 63% farmers who were small and marginal, of these about half cultivate land up to 5 acres and the remaining between 5-10 acres. Under normal cropping pattern, these farms do not generate income adequate to meet the family need i.e. health, education etc. One of the immediate steps that can be taken to ameliorate their lot was to give them remunerative price for their produce.
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SEKHWAN ANNOUNCES GRANT OF 5 GRACE MARKS IN MAJOR SUBJECTS FOR STUDENTS APPEARED IN MATRICULATION AND PLUS 2 EXAMINATIONS· Re-examination fee waived off
· Committee of eminent academicians to suggest alternative dress in place of convocation gown

SAS Nagar, April 7: Punjab Education Minister Mr. Sewa Singh Sekhwan today announced granting five grace marks for students ,who have appeared in Matriculation and Senior Secondary (Plus 2) examinations conducted by Punjab School Education Board this year in three major subjects namely English, Math and Science,.
Mr. Sekhwan made this announcement in a press conference held here today. He said that with the active support of parents and teaching community, the State government has got a tremendous success in curbing the menace of copying but at the same time decided that the strict check on copying should not reflect adversely on the results of students. Therefore, it has been decided to grant them five grace marks as one time measure. He also announced the constitution of a three member committee of DEOs to come out with a foolproof system to check copying. He also asked the Chairman, PSEB to waive off the re-examination fee for those students, who have to reappear in examination due to cancellation of their examination centers.
The Education Minister informed that the department had conducted a surprise checking of attendance of teachers on April 1 and not even a single teacher was found absent in any school of the state. He also complimented Chairman PSEB for ensuring the distribution of free books to students on the very first day of the new academic session.
Reiterating his commitment to do away with tradition of wearing gown a symbol of colonial era on convocation ceremonies, the Minister said that a committee of eminent academicians was being constituted to suggest alternative dress as per our Punjabi culture for such occasions.
He revealed that the State government was contemplating to set up a sports school with residential and training facilities in each block of the State to promote sports culture in a big way at school levels. Replying to a query, the Minister said that the processes for promotions of Headmasters and College Principals have already started and these would be completed in next two months.
Mr. Dalbir Singh Dhillon, Chairman, PSEB was also present in the press conference.
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PUNJAB ANNUAL PLAN FOR 2011-12 PEGGEDAT RS.11520 CRORE
CM DEMANDS COMPREHENSIVE DEBT RELIEF PACKAGE

Chandigarh/NEW DELHI APRIL 06:
The Annual Plan 2011-12 for the Punjab Government was finalized at Rs. 11520 crore at a meeting held today at Yojana Bhawan, New Delhi between Deputy Chairman Planning Commission of India Dr. Montek Singh Ahluwalia and Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal. The Plan outlay includes an Additional Central Assistance of Rs. 400 crore earmarked for the priority projects, with Rs.120 crore as central grant component.
Giving details of the plan outlay, a spokesman of the Punjab government said that the outlay for Annual Plan 2011-12 was Rs. 11520 crore, against the outlay of Rs.9150 crore for Annual Plan 2010-11. The budgeted plan was proposed at Rs.6804 crore while the remaining Rs. 4716 crore would form the extra-budgetary component.
Taking part in the deliberations, Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal apprised the Deputy Chairman Planning Commission Dr. Ahluwalia about 37% increase in the state’s own revenues over the past one year. Prudent financial management has resulted in plan performance of 98% in 2010-11. Mr. Badal also mentioned as against the 11th Plan target of 5.90%, the state’s economy grew at 9.25% in 2007-08, 6.55% in 2008-09, 7.84% in 2009-10 and 7.78% in 2010-11.
Dwelling on the remarkable progress in the key areas, Mr. Badal said that the state jumped from the 14th position to the 3rd in educational development index. Likewise, Punjab was also rated as excellent in the health sector in GoI’s common review mission of National Rural Health Mission. In power sector, the state inherited a legacy of total generation of 6200 MWs in 2007 and our concerted efforts have already increased it to 6900 MWs. Several projects were under way to generate 6560 MWs of additional power. Efforts were also being made to add another 5850 MWs through tapping other resources.
On the issue of the mounting debt, Mr. Badal said that despite our excellent all-round showing, the state’s finances remained under strain due to the heavy legacy of debt, which was inherited from the period of militancy when the state was directly under central rule. The annual interest burden alone for this debt was Rs. 6500 crore. He sought a comprehensive debt relief package in the form of complete debt waiver or rescheduling since this debt was incurred for fighting the nation’s war. The state has also suffered in a big way due to the industrial concessions granted to the neighboring hill states. This has resulted in a flight of industry from the state. Mr. Badal requested that these concessions should not be extended further or Punjab, being a border state, should also be given same concessions for its border areas. Another factor that has been straining the state’s resources was the reduction of state’s share in central taxes from 2.54 % to 1.39 %, revealed the Chief Minister.
Mr. Badal also urged the GoI to reduce the interest rate on small savings loans by 1.5% and bring it to the market rates. He also pointed that the state should also be given a choice between small savings loans and market loans. He also requested the early finalization of report of a committee constituted by GoI to assist the three debt ridden stressed states of Punjab, West Bengal and Kerala in getting out from the fiscal stress
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The Chief Minister forcefully pleaded for review of criteria for allocation of funds under major central schemes – AIBP, PMGSY, RKVY, NREGA, RGGVY etc. as these discriminated against the developed states like Punjab. He requested that separate funds be earmarked for maintenance and up-gradation of infrastructure for the states like Punjab.
The Chief Minister also highlighted the problems faced by the state in the various sectors and sought the help of planning commission and GoI to resolve them promptly on permanent basis. Mr. Badal urged the GoI to review the criteria for allocation of funds under Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana (RKVY) to include areas where subsoil water was declining within the ambit of un-irrigated area. Weight age should be given to maintenance and up-gradation of existing irrigation infrastructure and ensuring availability of power for agriculture. He also demanded to fix the Minimum Support Price as per the recommendation of Dr Swaminthan committee, giving a profit margin of 50% over cost of production. He also requested that all districts be covered under National Food Security Mission for wheat and rice. He asked Ministry of Food, GoI for an early settlement of outstanding dues of Rs 7461 crore pending with the Food Corporation of India for which the state was paying hefty interest.

Other issues raised by Mr. Badal related to financial support of Rs.100 crore every year to Punjab Agricultural University and additional storage needs of 78 lac MT of which 25 lac MT should be in the form of silos for scientific storage of food grains. He raised the unfortunate incidents of suicides by the farmers and urged the Government of India to waive off all agricultural loans as a one time measure regardless of the size of land holdings.

The Chief Minister also demanded that the compensation for crop damage be enhanced from Rs. 1600/- per acre to Rs 15000/- per acre. Mr. Badal also raised an issue to widen the scope of National Rural Employment Guarantees Scheme (NREGA) by including works like constructions of toilets for SC and BPL families, lining of distributaries, minors, water courses, boundary walls for schools and hospitals and white washing of government buildings etc. He highlighted the gross in justice done to the state by fixing the wage rates under NREGA at Rs.123 per day for Punjab and Rs.179 for Haryana and other states and sought immediate review of wages to end this disparity once for all.

Mr. Badal sought intervention of Planning Commission to device a new definition of BPL families and a comprehensive survey for their identification.

Making a forceful plea to compensate Punjab for its depletion of under ground water in the form of state’s only natural resource, Mr. Badal sought an early clearance of Rs. 3769 crore for modernization, remodeling of canals, deep tubewells, lining of water courses etc. submitted to Water Resources Ministry for approval. He demanded that the state government be compensated from the central pool for supply of 380 MWs of power for lighting of the border fence.
On the industrial front, Mr. Badal urged the Planning Commission to extend Delhi – Mumbai Industrial Corridor (DMIC) and two Freight Corridors up to Amritsar to give impetus to the industry in the state. Likewise, he also requested for special industrial package for agro-based industries and a big central sector project especially in the automobile sector.
Expressing gratitude to the Union Minister of Environment and Forests Mr. Jairam Ramesh for liberal GoI’s assistance for the river water cleaning projects in 45 towns situated on the banks of river Satluj, Beas and Ghaggar, Mr. Badal proudly announced that Punjab would be the only state in the country to have all its rivers pollution free.
Mr. Badal also appreciated the efforts of GoI for the enactment of Right to Education and also asked the GoI to share the cost of its implementation.

Highlighting the plight of cancer patients especially in the Malwa region, Mr. Badal solicited GoI’s liberal financial assistance for setting up of a new state-of-the-art Cancer Diagnostic and Treatment Center in the state. Outlining the enormous potential of development of once prosperous border areas, Mr. Badal demanded compensation for the farmers for their lands across the border fence @ Rs.10000/- acre for nearly 18500 acre. Besides, Rs.134 crore were demanded for providing water supply, sewerage and other amenities in 11 border towns and an industrial package for the border areas of the state at par with the package given to hilly states.

Responding to the presentation made by Mr. Samra, CEO of National Rainfed Authority of India regarding recharging of ground water in the Ghaggar basin by utilizing the flood water. Mr. Badal welcomed the proposal and sought the early implementation of the Rs.1100 crore inter-state project involving Himachal Pradesh, Punjab and Haryana.
While interacting with the Chief Minister, Mr. Montak Singh Ahluwalia appreciated the increase in the tax revenues of the state. He also assured the Chief Minister that he would soon take up the issues of debt waiver with the Ministry of Finance. He lauded the efforts of the state government for increase in the child sex ratio from 798 to 846 as per latest census figure. Dr. Ahluwalia also agreed to support the state government’s initiative to set up cancer diagnostic project in PPP mode.
In his address, Minister of Planning Mr. Ashwani Kumar assured the Chief Minster for overall support for the various issues raised by the Chief Minister especially for construction of silo for food storage on pilot basis and modification of criteria of allocation of funds under centrally sponsored schemes. Prominent amongst others who attended the meeting included Deputy Chief Minister Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal, Local Govt. & Industry Minister Mr. Manoranjan Kalia, Finance & Planning Minister Dr. Upinderjit Kaur, Food & Supplies Minister Mr. Adesh Partap Singh Kairon Vice Chairman State Planning Board Prof. Rajinder Bhandari, Chief Parliamentary Secretary (Finance & Planning) Mr. Raj Khurana, Chief Secretary Mr. SC Agrawal, Principal Secretary to Chief Minister Mr. DS Guru, Principal Secretary Finance KBS Sidhu, Secretary Planning Mr. Satish Chandra, Special Secretary Planning Mrs. Manisha Trigathia Additional Principal Secretary Mr. Gaggandip Singh Brar, Resident Commissioner Punjab Bhawan Mr. K.Siva Prasad and other senior officers of the state government.
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JAIRAM RAMESH ASSURES CM FOR EARLY CLEARANCE OF PROJECTS UNDER NRCD Chandigarh/

NEW DELHI APRIL 06: As a part of comprehensive plan for cleaning of the Punjab Rivers, the
Union Minister of State for Environment & Forests Mr. Jairam Ramesh today assured the Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal that the pending Detailed Project Report (DPR) of Jalandhar town under phase-II of National River Conservation Plan on river Satluj at a cost of Rs.237.16 crore would be cleared positively by 15th May, 2011. Mr. Jairam Ramesh gave an assurance to this effect in a meeting with Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal, who called on him

along with Deputy Chief Minister Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal here at his office this afternoon.Mr. Ramesh also asked the Director NRCD Mr. Brajesh Sikka to allow the state to carry out the works in the 22 towns subject to the condition of submission of final DPRs according to the revised guidelines issued by the Ministry of Environment & Forests GoI.
It may be recalled that the DPRs pending with NRCD for approval included; five towns Zira, Makhu, Talwandi Bhai, Dharmkot & Ferozepur) of River Sutlej costing Rs. 117.67 crore; five towns (Begowal, Sham Churasi, Dhilwan, Rayya & Kapurthala) of River Beas costing Rs. 70.33 crore and twelve towns (Rajpura, Patran, Khanauri, Lehragaga, Moonak, Sirhind-Fatehgarh Sahib, Nabha, Banur, Sanaur, Bassi Pathana, Mandi Gobindgarh and Dera Bassi) of River Ghaggar costing Rs. 296.96 crore.

On the request of the Chief Minister, Mr. Ramesh also assured him that he would soon convene a special meeting to clear the state government’s proposal for diversion of 9.306 hectare of forest land for construction of a 200 ft. wide Toll free road from Mullanpur upto T-Junction of Kurali-Siswan road in SAS Nagar Mohali at the earliest. Mr. Ramesh also agreed to the proposal put forth by the Chief Minister to develop Deer Safari and expand Mini Zoo Bir Talab Bathinda. He assured the Chief Minister that he would soon take up the matter with Central Zoo Authority for the approval of master plan submitted by the Chief Wildlife Warden Punjab in this regard and directed the Inspector General Wildlife Mr. AK Srivastava to expedite the matter. The Chief Minister expressed gratitude to Mr. Jairam Ramesh for showing keen interest in approving the sewerage schemes on the priority for abatement of pollution in the rivers of Punjab for ten towns.
Prominent amongst others who were present in the meeting included Deputy Chief Minister Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal, Principal Secretary to Chief Minister Mr. DS Guru, Principal Secretary Forests Mr. DS Bains, Additional Principal Secretary to Chief Minister Mr. Gaggandip Singh Brar. Mrs. Nalini Bhatt, Advisor Ministry of Environment & Forests also attended the meeting
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Food grain storage by central agencies

CM, DY. CM SEEK DR. MANMOHAN SINGH’S INTERVENTIONChandigarh/NEW DELHI APRIL 06:Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today impressed upon the Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh to immediately direct the concerned authorities to expedite movement of foodgrain from Punjab and to augment the storage space in the state.

Mr. Badal along with Deputy Chief Minister Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal raised this issue with the Prime Minister when they called on him at his residence this morning. Disclosing this here today a spokesperson of the Chief Minster’s Office said that Mr. Badal also urged the Prime Minister to also accord approval for the construction of covered godowns as per the proposal of state government at the earliest.

Mr. Badal also apprised the Prime Minister that Punjab was suffering on two accounts, the state was not getting adequate and quick movement of foodgrain on one hand and on the other hand the Government of India has not yet accorded the necessary approval for construction of storage capacity.

Allaying fears in such a scenario, Mr. Badal said that it would be difficult for Punjab to procure and store the recent crops that may lead to farmer unrest and serious law and order problem in this border state. He requested the Prime Minister to immediately accept the proposal of state government for storage capacity in the larger interest of the storage of foodgrains and national food security otherwise during the ensuing paddy season, there would be total chaos jeopardizing the law and order situation, if paddy was not lifted from the mandis.

It may be recalled that Punjab was facing acute shortage of space for the storage of foodgrains. As per a survey conducted by Govt. of India/FCI Punjab was having a shortage to the tune of 71 Lac MT. In view of this alarming shortage the state procurement agencies were compelled to store wheat in open and even on unscientific plinths such as rice mills, mandi yards, katcha plinths etc. At present more than 90% of wheat storage in Punjab wais in open. The shortage of covered space was adversely affecting the rice acceptance in the central pool. The storage of foodgrains in open and in the rice mills leads to deterioration in the quality of grain and rotting.
The Chief Minister also informed Dr. Singh that realizing the urgency of storage needs, the Punjab government has floated tenders for construction of covered godowns under PEG Scheme of Govt. of India for a capacity of 71 Lac MT. However, this capacity have been reduced to 51 Lac MT by GoI without any consultation with the state government. The FCI has finalized a capacity of only 13 Lac MT in the state at a rent rate upto Rs. 5.00 per quintal per month after a long cumbersome procedure of the tender at only 14 storage centres of Punjab. Although the state government has requested FCI to allow this rent rate for other storage centres also, so that additional capacity of around 35 lac MT could be made available but no positive response has been received from FCI/GoI as yet. Even the balance capacity has been reduced by another 5.00 lac MT.
Mr. Badal also mentioned that Punjab was likely to procure more than 110 lac MT wheat in this Rabi season. The slow and inadequate movement of foodgrains of previous years coupled with the acute shortage of storage space would again compel the procurement agencies to store wheat in open and even on unscientific katcha plinths. Resentment was constantly brewing amongst the employees of the state procurement agencies against the shortage of storage space and slow liquidation of the stocks from the state as they apprehend that they would be held responsible for deterioration and rotting of the stocks.

The Chief Minister also sought Dr. Singh’s personal intervention to direct the Department of Fertilizers to allocate 2 lac MT of DAP to the State during April and May for indigenous production till the imported material was received as timely and adequate availability of DAP was must to ensure the optimal production and procurement of paddy for the Central Pool.
Assuring of a positive response, Dr. Singh said that the Centre would certainly look into these issues raised by Mr. Badal sympathetically. He also assured the Chief Minister that he would ask the concerned ministries of Agriculture and Fertilizers besides FCI for clearing state government’s proposal for storage for foodgrains and ensure adequate & timely supply of DAP for the sowing of Kharif crops.

The Chief Minister was accompanied by Deputy Chief Minister Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal, Food & Supplies Minister Mr. Adesh Partap Singh Kairon, Chief Secretary Mr. SC Agrawal, Principal Secretary to Chief Minister Mr. DS Guru and Additional Principal Secretary to Chief Minister Mr. Gaggandip Singh Brar.
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Punjab to fill all vacant post of College Principals within two months – Sekhwan· Approves policy for regularisation of college lecturers

· Focuses on rationalisation of postings of college lecturers
· Punjab to do away with convocation gowns

Chandigarh March 6:

The Punjab Government is all set to fill the all vacant posts of college principals by promotion as well as direct recruitment within two months.

Presiding over the meeting of Principals of all government colleges in the state, Punjab Education Minister Mr. Sewa Singh Sekhwan said that Punjab Government was committed to improve the education standard in the government colleges and all principals besides faculty would have to make collective efforts to realize this dream. He said that seniority list of lecturers is being finalized and within two months eligible lecturers would be promoted as Principals. Mr. AR Talwar Principal Secretary Higher Education informed that PPSC has also scheduled interviews in 2nd week of May to recruit principals in the direct quota.

Coming to the another demand of principals for regularisation of Adhoc college lecturers, the Minister said that a three phased policy for their regularisation has already been approved under which NET qualified lecturers would be regularised in the first phase and in the 2nd phase the lecturers having M.Phil degrees on a particular date would be considered for regularisation and in the 3rd phase guest faculty full filling the minimum conditions would be regularised.
Exhorting the principals to lead from the front Mr. Sekhwan said that higher education Department has got highest ever budget allocation since independence and now it was imperative for them to raise the bar of standards in their respective colleges. He emphasized the need for introducing more vocational courses in the colleges so that students being churned out from the colleges should be employable.

Focusing on rationalisation of staff strength in each college the Minister said that a major rationalization exercise was under way and surplus staff would be posted in deficient colleges.
Asking the principals to express their views to do away with the convocation gowns, Mr. Sekhwan said that this gown reflected the colonial symbol of slavery and this was high time that we should get ourselves freed from this colonial mind set.
He underlined the need that all educational institutions should launch a concerted drive against copying in the exams as the campaign against copying in school education proved to be a grand success.
Speaking on the occasion Mr. AR Talwar urged the Principals to speak out their problems so that those could be redressed. He informed that the repair and additional construction works in the colleges would be completed by October this year.
While addressing the Principals, Mrs. Karamjit Kaur DPI Colleges Punjab said that the academic standards of all the government colleges especially situated in the rural areas would be improved by implementing the 11 point programme chalked out by the government.
A detailed presentation on proposed e-governance project chalked out for Punjab colleges was also made in the meeting.
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the Punjab Government has directed all the building contractors involved in various construction works
CHANDIGARH, APRIL 5:

In the light of decision of Hon'ble Supreme Court of India, the Punjab Government has directed all the building contractors involved in various construction works of the Punjab Government to register their workers with the Labour Welfare Board so that they could get due benefits from the various schemes launched by the Board.

Stating this here today a spokesman of Punjab Government said that instructions in this regard had already been issued to all the departments to take immediate action in compliance with the Supreme Court directive in this matter.
State Government has also directed to send one percent cess collected under section -3 of Building and Other Construction Labour Welfare Cess Act within a month in the from of bank draft in the name of Punjab Building and other Construction Workers Welfare Board Chandigarh. The field staff of Labour Department can also be contacted in this regard, the spokesman added.

He further said that construction works being under taken on contract by the Government Departments should also register themselves as main employer of the contract labour under section 7 of Regulation and Abolition Act 1970 and license as a contractor should be taken under section 23 of the above act, he added.
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Chief Electoral Officer Punjab, Ms. Kusumjit Sidhu

CHANDIGARH, APRIL 5:

Chief Electoral Officer Punjab, Ms. Kusumjit Sidhu has made a fervent appeal to the people in general and youth in the age group of 18-19 years in particular to enroll themselves as voters and submit the required details to prepare their voter identity cards well in time.

In a statement issued here today, Ms. Sidhu said that enrolment of eligible voters was utmost important keeping in view the forthcoming general election of PunjabVidhan Sabha.
Adding further, she said that inspite of the tireless efforts of the Voters Registration Officers, about 18 percent eligible voters could not be registered as per the voter list of 1.1.2011. Only 15 percent of the youth in the age group of 18-19 years could be enrolled in the voter lists.
She made an appeal to the intellectual community, writers, opinion makers, representatives of both electronic and print media to initiate a mass awareness campaign through the works in their respective fields so that more and more eligible people could be enrolled as voters in order to strengthen the democratic set up of our country and the target of 100 percent voter enrolment with voter identity cards could be achieved.
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PUNJAB ANNOUNCES 100 SCHOLARSHIPS TO POOR STUDENTS OF THREE YEARS TECHNICAL DIPLOMA COURSES

Chandigarh April 4:-

with a view to encourage meritorious students and students from poor families to pursue further education after 10th class, the Punjab State Board of Technical Education & Industrial Training has decided to give about 100 Scholarships and Full Fee Concession to the Diploma students studying in various Polytechnic Colleges of Punjab.

Disclosing this here today a spokesman of the Punjab Technical Education said that these scholarships worth Rs.12000/- each would be provided to students whose family income would be less than Rs.1.50 lacs. In addition to this, 40 students would also be awarded full fee concession amounting to Rs.27225/- each whose family income was less
than Rs. 1 lac, he added.

The spokesman further said that the 3 years Diplomas in Engineering were being awarded in 26 disciplines in 109 Polytechnic colleges in the State. The admission of these colleges would be held on the basis of Joint Entrance Test (JET) 2011 scheduled to be held on 15th of May this year. The Prospects of the same are already available in
designated Punjab National Bank Branches, Polytechnic Colleges and Suvidha Centres across the State. On completion of the diploma the students are also eligible for admission to 2nd year of Bachelor of Engineering, the spokesman added.
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PUNJAB APPROVES MASTER PLAN FOR 8 TOWNS

ZONING APPROVED FOR AREA NEAR
GURDAWARA BER SAHIB AT SULTANPUR LODHI

REGULATORY WING TO CHECK UNAUTHORIZED
CONSTRUCTION IN ALL THE SIX AUTHORITIES

CHANDIGARH MARCH 4:

The Punjab Government today approved the Master Plans for the planned development of eight towns included Sultanpur Lodhi, Hoshiarpur, Tran Taran, Sangrur, Bhaga Purana, Rama Mandi, Kotkapura and Fatehgarh Sahib.
A decision to this effect has been taken in the 22nd meeting of Punjab Regional Town Planning and Development Board under the Chairmanship of Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal at Chief Minister's residence this morning.
Disclosing this here today a spokesperson of the Punjab government said that Mr. Badal directed PUDA for zoning of the area near the historic Gurdawara Ber Sahib at Sultanpur Lodhi to prevent any haphazard residential construction.
It was also informed in the meeting that a Regulatory Wing of PUDA has been constituted to check unauthorized and illegal constructions falling in the jurisdiction of all the six authorities in their respective areas, in addition it would also ensure 100% compliance of all the by-laws in these areas.
The Chief Minister further asked board to prepare new master plans for the big villages with the population equivalent to a small town.
The Board also gave approval to include the gaps between various master plans implemented for Mohali by extending the jurisdiction of these master plans to avoid any kind of unauthorized construction.
Prominent amongst those who were present in these meetings included Local Government and Industry Minister Mr. Manoranjan Kalia, Finance & Planning Minister Dr. Upinderjit Kaur, Chief Parliamentary Secretary Housing and Urban Development Mr. Sarwan Singh Phillaur, Chief Secretary Mr. SC Agrawal, Principal Secretary to Chief Minister Mr. DS Guru, Financial Commissioner Rural Development and Panchayat Mr. Jagpal Singh Sandhu, Principal Secretary Industries Mr. SS Channy, Secretary Housing & Urban Development and MD PIDB Dr. Sukhbir Singh Sandhu, Additional Principal Secretary to the Chief Minister Mr. Gaggandip Singh Brar, Secretary Local Government Mr. SS Rajput, Chief Administrator PUDA Mr. Sarabjit Singh, and Chief Town Planner Mr. Kuldeep Singh Dhaliwal.
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PUNJAB HEALTH MINISTER CELEBRATES BIKRAMI SAMVANT 2068

CHANDIGARH,APRIL:4

Health & Family Welfare Minister Punjab Prof laxmi kanta chawla , celebrated new year Bikrami samvant 2068 at her official residence M.L.A flat sector-4, Chandigarh on the occasion a Havan Yajna has been perfound.
Speaking on the occasion she urged the people of the country to celebrate our traditional festivals with gaiety and fervor.
Relatives, friends and officers of the department attended the new year function. Prominent among others who attended function were Mr.A.R Talwar Financial Commissioner Revenue. Mr. Satish Chandra principal Secretary Health , Mr. Anurag Aggarwal , Mrs. Raji Srivastava MD health system corporation. Sh. Krishan kumar MD NRHM and Kunwar Vijay Partap IPS.
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ROTATIONAL IRRIGATION PROGRAMME FOR RABI SEASON ANNOUNCED
Chandigarh, April 4:
The Irrigation Department, Punjab has announced the Rotational Programme for irrigation for the current Rabi Season through Canal water from 4-4-2011 to 11-4-2011. The channels of Sirhind Canal System would run on the priority basis from Patiala feeder, Abohar Branch, Bist Doab Canal, Sidhwan Branch and Bathinda Branch respectively.
Disclosing this here today a spokesman of the irrigation department said that Ghaggar link and its off taking channels i.e. Ghaggar Branch and Patiala Minor in Group 'B' being in the first preference will run to their indent. Balance water supplies available will be utilized in direct distributaries of Bhakra Main Line in group 'A' respectively.
The spokesman further said that Abohar Branch off-taking from Sirhind Feeder and distributries in Group "B" being in the First preference will run to their ident. Balance water supplies available would be utilised in direct distributaries of Group 'A'.
The spokesman also said that the channels off taking from upper Bari Doab Canal i.e. Lahore Branch with its distributaries being in the first Preference would run to their indent .Balance water supplies water available would be utilised in Main Branch Lower, Kasur Branch Lower, Sabraon Branch with their distributaries respectively.
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Sukhbir has achieved nothing of which I could be jealous : Manpreet Badal

Chandigarh, 04 April
Honourable Chief Minister's comment that I am jealous of Sukhbir's rise in the politics amuses me. CM sahib has observed me from childhood, but I am surprised that he doesn't seem to realise that envy was never one of my failings. If I was jealous, then I wouldn't have gone out of the way, to fulfill whatever task was given to me by him. This included promotional campaigns during elections for the Deputy CM as well as his better half. I led the campaign in Faridkot and also campaigned ceaselessly during Bathinda MP elections.

Also, when he alleges that I am jealous of Sukhbir, I request him to substantiate that what am I jealous of? What achievement has Sukhbir notched so far, that should make me envious? Honestly, speaking, I can't find any accomplishment of his that should make me feel uneasy. I am a modest man and I derive strength from the support of my own well wishers and as both my recent meetings- first at Maghi and then at Khatkar Kalan show, there are people who believe in me. It is their opinion and affections that matter to me.

Also, this is the third time, the Chief Minister has termed me as thankless. He repeatedly makes a mention that I contested from Gidderbaha in 1995 on party's ticket. I only ask him, that did I disappoint the people of Gidderbaha as their MLA? Was I found wanting in my duties? Didn't I serve my constituency to the best of my capabilities? At least, the people of Gidderbaha thought that I did my best, which is why, they voted for Akali Dal for three consecutive terms after the first time and each time my victory margin was bigger than the last one. I will not detail my work because that was a part of my duty, but I think I was able to bring about a significant improvement in the health, education and the overall quality of life of people of my constituency, which increased people's faith in Akali Dal. I am surprised because what he is now saying is completely opposite to what he used to say after the 1995 elections. He would often praise me for taking the responsibility to fight when a lot of people were afraid to lose in view of the popularity of the Beant Singh government. Post my victory, he mentioned in several times during his public speeches that how the victory in Gidderbaha had revived the Akali Dal.

Similarly, he says that I was given the plum position of finance minister in my fourth term as legislator. What did he expect me to do, once I was given that position? To turn a blind eye towards the unconscionable expenditures of his ministers and some pampered bureaucrats? To not highlight state's precarious financial position? To not urge increase the tax collections? This is all I did but he exited me from the party.

CM sahib has also made reference to me causing a rift between him and his younger brother i.e. my father. Anyone who knows my father, will tell you, that he has always stood for what is right. In past, I have erred which has earned me his stern reprimands. But all along this time, he told me categorically, that I was correct and in fact, his guidance motivated me, to start Jago movement and now the People's Party. I know that if I was wrong, he would never have stood by me. He is a man of principles and unlike others isn't the one who blindly promote their own sons, at the cost of the party and the state. He supported his elder brother for five decades. He never contested elections on his own, despite his immense popularity in Punjab. He has always put state's and party's interest before his and his family's interests.

CM sahib's latest comment is the latest in a series of statements given by Congress and Akali leaders. On one hand they tell the media that I am inconsequential and on the other hand, they criticise me vehemently. If I am inconsequential, I wonder why do they reserve their strongest disapproval for me? Why do they go out of the way to use foul words against me?I am bothered only about what the common people of Punjab think of me. If they have faith in me, they will show it and if they don't trust then also, they will exhibit it.
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SUKHBIR SINGH BADAL ANNOUNCES RS. 1 CRORE CASH AWARD EACH TO YUVRAJ AND HARBHAJAN FOR THEIR STERLING PERFORMANCE IN WORLD CUP 2011
Chandigarh, April 3 : Punjab Deputy Chief Minister Sukhbir Singh Badal today announced a cash award of Rs. One crore each to Harbhajan Singh and Yuvraj on India's historic World Cup win.
Deputy CM also felicitated M S Dhoni , Tendulkar and the team on their outstanding show. "We are all proud of you. This victory is all the sweeter as it came under so much pressure. Special word of congratulations to skipper Mahinder Singh Dhoni for his great innings and for leading the team with courage and aplomb"
Mr. Badal said that Mr. Yuvraj Singh who was declared ‘Man of the Tournament’ led the team from the front and throughout the tournament played a deciding role especially during crunch situations. He said that his contributions on batting, bowling and fielding fronts played an important role in victory of the team. He said that Mr. Harbhajan Singh, through his bowling restricted the run rate and claimed important wickets. He said that both players were instrumental in bringing world cup to the country after a gap of 28 years. Mr. Badal said that it was matter of great pride that in 1983 Punjab born Kapil Dev had brought world cup to India.
Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal who was also Chairman of the organizing Committee for successful conduct of Semi Final between India and Pakistan in Mohali, said that Punjab government would soon organise a grand ceremony in the state to honour the players.
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13 IAS and 1 PCS officers Transferred
Chandigarh, April 3:

Punjab Government transferred and posted 13 IAS and One PCS officer. An order in this regard has been issued here today.
Giving the Information a spokesman of Punjab Government said that Sh. Hussan lal, IAS, Secretary, Tourism posted as Secretary, Tourism and in addition Director cum Secretary, Cultural Affairs, Museums, Archieves and Archeology and in addition Director, Tourism and in addition managing Director, Punjab Tourism Development Corporation and in addition State Transport Commissioner, Punjab and in addition Secretary in the Department of Transport, Punjab
Sh Harbhupinder Singh, IAS, Special Secretary, Transport, Punjab posted as Special Secretary, Higher Education and Languages.
Sh. Kumar Rahul, IAS, Deputy Commissioner, Mansa posted as Deputy Commissioner, Sangrur .
Sh. Arunjit Singh Miglani, IAS Deputy commissioner, Roopnagar's Services placed at the disposal of the Department of Housing and Urban Development for appointment as Chief Administrator, PUDA, SAS Nagar, and in addition Chief Administrator, Amritsar Development Authority, Amritsar and in addition Chief Administrator, Patiala Development Authority, Patiala and in addition Ex-Officio Director, Town and Country Planning Punjab .
Sh. Parveen Kumar, IAS Deputy Commissioner, SAS Nagar posted as Director Lotteries Punjab and in addition Special Secretary, Finance, Punjab and in addition Director Small Savings, Punjab.
Sh Gopal Krishan Singh IAS, Director, colonization Punjab posted as Deputy commissioner, Roopnagar, Sh Harkesh Singh Sidhu, IAS Deputy Commissioner, Sangrur posted as Director Colonization, Punjab in addition Director, Land Records. settlement & consolidation and Land Acquisition Jalandhar and Sh Arhdeep Singh Thind IAS, Deputy Commissioner, Barnala posted as Deputy Commissioner, Muktsar.
Sh Varun Roojam, IAS Deputy Commissioner, Muktsar posted as Deputy commissioner SAS Nagar and in addition Commissioner, Municpal corporation SAS Nagar . Smt. Kavita Mohan Signh Chouhan, IAS Deputy Commissioner, Kapurthala's Sercives placed at the disposal of the Department of Industries and Commerce for appointemtn as Managing Director, Punjab Industrial Development Corporation, Chandigarh.
Sh Paramjit Singh IAS ADC Amritsar posted as Deputy Commissioner, Barnala , Sh Harjeet Singh IAS ADC Barnala posted as Deputy commissioner, Kapurthala and Dr. Adapa Karthik, IAS, SDM Rampura Phul posted as SDM Roop Nagar .
Sh. Ravinder Singh-1 PCS Secretary RTA Jalandhar posted as Deputy Commissioner, Mansa .
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Punjab Government announces Rs One Crore each to Harbhajan and Yuvraj

Chandigarh April 3 -
Punjab Deputy Chief Minister Sukhbir Singh Badal today announced a cash award of Rs. One crore each to Harbhajan Singh and Yuvraj on India's historic World Cup win. The Deputy CM also felicitated M S Dhoni, Tendulkar and the team on their outstanding show. "We are all proud of you. This victory is all the sweeter as it came under so much pressure. Special word of congratulations to skipper Mahinder Singh Dhoni for his great innings and for leading the team with courage and aplomb" said Sukhbir Singh in a message to the Indian skipper. He also announced that the players would be honoured at a special function by the Punjab government.

CHANDIGARH APRIL 7:

Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today honored 27 Officers and Jawans of Bomb Disposal Unit of Indian Army for successfully conducting 'Operation Saiyam' - a unique Army operation to defuse about 20,000 unexploded dangerous bombs of about 50 tones that had arrived in waist steel scrap at Dry Port of Dhandari Kalan (Ludhiana) thereby preventing any possible disaster in the civil areas in and around Ludhiana.

The Chief Minister was presiding over a Civil and Military Liaison Conference organized by the Punjab Government here at Punjab Bhawan this morning. While addressing a galaxy of senior Officers of Defence and Civilian authorities, Mr. Badal highly appreciated the role of Army in extending timely and all out support to the civil administration during any such emergency. Mr. Badal also assured to extend fulsome support and coordination to the Army from state government .
Responding to the various issues raised by the Army authorities, the Chief Minister said that the state government had agreed in principle to resolve the problem of the flood water at Chandigarh Air Port by providing adequate drainage facility. He also mentioned that necessary instructions had already been issued to the Drainage Department.

Mr. Badal also approved Rs. 13.75 crore project for providing water supply facility at Military Station Fazilka. He further announced that Rs. 84 lac would be spent for civil sewage disposal at Air force Station Pathankot to avoid any incident of air crash due to bird hit.
Speaking on the occasion, General Officer Commanding-in-Chief (GOC-in-C) Western Command Lt. General S R Ghosh complimented the Chief Minister for the prompt resolution of the pending issues through taking personal initiative. He assured Mr. Badal on behalf of Western Command to extend full cooperation to the civil administration in fighting natural calamities in future too. He hoped for a further better understanding and cooperation besides the need for a coordinated approach between the civil and military authorities in the larger interest of the society.

On this occasion GOC-in-C was accompanied by Chief of Staff, HQ Western Command Lt. General Baljeet Singh, VSM, Major General Staff (SD) R.G. Krishnan VSM, Major General Operations Logistic John George and Chief Engineer HQ Manik Sabharwal SM.

Prominent amongst others who attended the conference included, Chief Secretary S.C Agrawal, Principal Secretary to Chief Minister Mr. DS Guru, Principal Secretary Home Mr. DS Bains, Special Principal Secretary to the Chief Minister Mr. KJS Cheema, MD PIDB Dr. Sukhbir Singh Sandhu and Diectror General of Police Mr. P.S. Gill, besides other senior functionaries of the state administration.
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BADAL WRITES PM: DEMANDS MSP OF WHEAT TO BE INCREASED FROM RS. 1120/- TO RS. 1480/- PER QUINTAL

Chandigarh April 7:-

Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today sought personal intervention of Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh to immediately enhance the Minimum Support Price (MSP) of Wheat from Rs. 1120/- to Rs. 1480/- per quintal.
In a letter to the Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh, Mr. Badal urged the Center to help in improving the economic lot of the farmers thereby by recommending a minimum hike of Rs. 480/- per quintal in the MSP of Wheat to raise it to Rs. 1480/- from the 1120/- per quintal.

Mr. Badal reiterated that the farming population must not be allowed to feel ignored and left out of the current growth rate of India.

The Chief Minister pleaded this price should cover all operating costs including family labour and rent plus 50% margin. Current Minimum Support Price (MSP) for wheat does not cover the above cost and margin in full. The land rent prevalent in the state at present varies between Rs. 25,000/- to Rs. 30,000/- per acre/year, the share for wheat crop works out approximately Rs. 12,000/- while fixing MSP during 2007-08, the Commission for Agricultural cost and Prices had included about Rs. 6000/- as rent per acre. The MSP for that crop year was Rs. 1000/- per quintal. Since then, costs on two accounts have increased; i) operating cost, ii) increase in the land rent. The operating costs since then has increased by about 50% (Rs. 2800/- per acre for wheat) and the rent has increased by 6600/- per acre. The MSP for 2010-11 should have covered an additional cost of Rs. 6000/- + 2800/- i.e. 8800/- per acre. With an average yield of 18 quintal per acre, the increase in MSP of wheat should have been about Rs. 480/- pre quintal raising it to Rs. 1480 per quintal instead of Rs. 1120 per quintal fixed by the Government of India.

The Chief Minister pointed out that the state have about 63% farmers who were small and marginal, of these about half cultivate land up to 5 acres and the remaining between 5-10 acres. Under normal cropping pattern, these farms do not generate income adequate to meet the family need i.e. health, education etc. One of the immediate steps that can be taken to ameliorate their lot was to give them remunerative price for their produce.
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SEKHWAN ANNOUNCES GRANT OF 5 GRACE MARKS IN MAJOR SUBJECTS FOR STUDENTS APPEARED IN MATRICULATION AND PLUS 2 EXAMINATIONS·

Re-examination fee waived off· Committee of eminent academicians to suggest alternative dress in place of convocation gown

SAS Nagar, April 7:
Punjab Education Minister Mr. Sewa Singh Sekhwan today announced granting five grace marks for students ,who have appeared in Matriculation and Senior Secondary (Plus 2) examinations conducted by Punjab School Education Board this year in three major subjects namely English, Math and Science,.

Mr. Sekhwan made this announcement in a press conference held here today. He said that with the active support of parents and teaching community, the State government has got a tremendous success in curbing the menace of copying but at the same time decided that the strict check on copying should not reflect adversely on the results of students. Therefore, it has been decided to grant them five grace marks as one time measure. He also announced the constitution of a three member committee of DEOs to come out with a foolproof system to check copying. He also asked the Chairman, PSEB to waive off the re-examination fee for those students, who have to reappear in examination due to cancellation of their examination centers.

The Education Minister informed that the department had conducted a surprise checking of attendance of teachers on April 1 and not even a single teacher was found absent in any school of the state. He also complimented Chairman PSEB for ensuring the distribution of free books to students on the very first day of the new academic session.
Reiterating his commitment to do away with tradition of wearing gown a symbol of colonial era on convocation ceremonies, the Minister said that a committee of eminent academicians was being constituted to suggest alternative dress as per our Punjabi culture for such occasions.
He revealed that the State government was contemplating to set up a sports school with residential and training facilities in each block of the State to promote sports culture in a big way at school levels. Replying to a query, the Minister said that the processes for promotions of Headmasters and College Principals have already started and these would be completed in next two months.
Mr. Dalbir Singh Dhillon, Chairman, PSEB was also present in the press conference.
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PUNJAB ANNUAL PLAN FOR 2011-12 PEGGEDAT RS.11520 CRORE
CM DEMANDS COMPREHENSIVE DEBT RELIEF PACKAGE

Chandigarh/NEW DELHI APRIL 06:

The Annual Plan 2011-12 for the Punjab Government was finalized at Rs. 11520 crore at a meeting held today at Yojana Bhawan, New Delhi between Deputy Chairman Planning Commission of India Dr. Montek Singh Ahluwalia and Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal. The Plan outlay includes an Additional Central Assistance of Rs. 400 crore earmarked for the priority projects, with Rs.120 crore as central grant component.

Giving details of the plan outlay, a spokesman of the Punjab government said that the outlay for Annual Plan 2011-12 was Rs. 11520 crore, against the outlay of Rs.9150 crore for Annual Plan 2010-11. The budgeted plan was proposed at Rs.6804 crore while the remaining Rs. 4716 crore would form the extra-budgetary component.
Taking part in the deliberations, Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal apprised the Deputy Chairman Planning Commission Dr. Ahluwalia about 37% increase in the state’s own revenues over the past one year. Prudent financial management has resulted in plan performance of 98% in 2010-11. Mr. Badal also mentioned as against the 11th Plan target of 5.90%, the state’s economy grew at 9.25% in 2007-08, 6.55% in 2008-09, 7.84% in 2009-10 and 7.78% in 2010-11.

Dwelling on the remarkable progress in the key areas, Mr. Badal said that the state jumped from the 14th position to the 3rd in educational development index. Likewise, Punjab was also rated as excellent in the health sector in GoI’s common review mission of National Rural Health Mission. In power sector, the state inherited a legacy of total generation of 6200 MWs in 2007 and our concerted efforts have already increased it to 6900 MWs. Several projects were under way to generate 6560 MWs of additional power. Efforts were also being made to add another 5850 MWs through tapping other resources.

On the issue of the mounting debt, Mr. Badal said that despite our excellent all-round showing, the state’s finances remained under strain due to the heavy legacy of debt, which was inherited from the period of militancy when the state was directly under central rule. The annual interest burden alone for this debt was Rs. 6500 crore. He sought a comprehensive debt relief package in the form of complete debt waiver or rescheduling since this debt was incurred for fighting the nation’s war. The state has also suffered in a big way due to the industrial concessions granted to the neighboring hill states. This has resulted in a flight of industry from the state. Mr. Badal requested that these concessions should not be extended further or Punjab, being a border state, should also be given same concessions for its border areas. Another factor that has been straining the state’s resources was the reduction of state’s share in central taxes from 2.54 % to 1.39 %, revealed the Chief Minister.

Mr. Badal also urged the GoI to reduce the interest rate on small savings loans by 1.5% and bring it to the market rates. He also pointed that the state should also be given a choice between small savings loans and market loans. He also requested the early finalization of report of a committee constituted by GoI to assist the three debt ridden stressed states of Punjab, West Bengal and Kerala in getting out from the fiscal stress.

The Chief Minister forcefully pleaded for review of criteria for allocation of funds under major central schemes – AIBP, PMGSY, RKVY, NREGA, RGGVY etc. as these discriminated against the developed states like Punjab. He requested that separate funds be earmarked for maintenance and up-gradation of infrastructure for the states like Punjab.
The Chief Minister also highlighted the problems faced by the state in the various sectors and sought the help of planning commission and GoI to resolve them promptly on permanent basis. Mr. Badal urged the GoI to review the criteria for allocation of funds under Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana (RKVY) to include areas where subsoil water was declining within the ambit of un-irrigated area. Weight age should be given to maintenance and up-gradation of existing irrigation infrastructure and ensuring availability of power for agriculture. He also demanded to fix the Minimum Support Price as per the recommendation of Dr Swaminthan committee, giving a profit margin of 50% over cost of production. He also requested that all districts be covered under National Food Security Mission for wheat and rice. He asked Ministry of Food, GoI for an early settlement of outstanding dues of Rs 7461 crore pending with the Food Corporation of India for which the state was paying hefty interest.

Other issues raised by Mr. Badal related to financial support of Rs.100 crore every year to Punjab Agricultural University and additional storage needs of 78 lac MT of which 25 lac MT should be in the form of silos for scientific storage of food grains. He raised the unfortunate incidents of suicides by the farmers and urged the Government of India to waive off all agricultural loans as a one time measure regardless of the size of land holdings.

The Chief Minister also demanded that the compensation for crop damage be enhanced from Rs. 1600/- per acre to Rs 15000/- per acre. Mr. Badal also raised an issue to widen the scope of National Rural Employment Guarantees Scheme (NREGA) by including works like constructions of toilets for SC and BPL families, lining of distributaries, minors, water courses, boundary walls for schools and hospitals and white washing of government buildings etc. He highlighted the gross in justice done to the state by fixing the wage rates under NREGA at Rs.123 per day for Punjab and Rs.179 for Haryana and other states and sought immediate review of wages to end this disparity once for all.
Mr. Badal sought intervention of Planning Commission to device a new definition of BPL families and a comprehensive survey for their identification.

Making a forceful plea to compensate Punjab for its depletion of under ground water in the form of state’s only natural resource, Mr. Badal sought an early clearance of Rs. 3769 crore for modernization, remodeling of canals, deep tubewells, lining of water courses etc. submitted to Water Resources Ministry for approval. He demanded that the state government be compensated from the central pool for supply of 380 MWs of power for lighting of the border fence.
On the industrial front, Mr. Badal urged the Planning Commission to extend Delhi – Mumbai Industrial Corridor (DMIC) and two Freight Corridors up to Amritsar to give impetus to the industry in the state. Likewise, he also requested for special industrial package for agro-based industries and a big central sector project especially in the automobile sector.
Expressing gratitude to the Union Minister of Environment and Forests Mr. Jairam Ramesh for liberal GoI’s assistance for the river water cleaning projects in 45 towns situated on the banks of river Satluj, Beas and Ghaggar, Mr. Badal proudly announced that Punjab would be the only state in the country to have all its rivers pollution free.
Mr. Badal also appreciated the efforts of GoI for the enactment of Right to Education and also asked the GoI to share the cost of its implementation.

Highlighting the plight of cancer patients especially in the Malwa region, Mr. Badal solicited GoI’s liberal financial assistance for setting up of a new state-of-the-art Cancer Diagnostic and Treatment Center in the state. Outlining the enormous potential of development of once prosperous border areas, Mr. Badal demanded compensation for the farmers for their lands across the border fence @ Rs.10000/- acre for nearly 18500 acre. Besides, Rs.134 crore were demanded for providing water supply, sewerage and other amenities in 11 border towns and an industrial package for the border areas of the state at par with the package given to hilly states.

Responding to the presentation made by Mr. Samra, CEO of National Rainfed Authority of India regarding recharging of ground water in the Ghaggar basin by utilizing the flood water. Mr. Badal welcomed the proposal and sought the early implementation of the Rs.1100 crore inter-state project involving Himachal Pradesh, Punjab and Haryana.
While interacting with the Chief Minister, Mr. Montak Singh Ahluwalia appreciated the increase in the tax revenues of the state. He also assured the Chief Minister that he would soon take up the issues of debt waiver with the Ministry of Finance. He lauded the efforts of the state government for increase in the child sex ratio from 798 to 846 as per latest census figure. Dr. Ahluwalia also agreed to support the state government’s initiative to set up cancer diagnostic project in PPP mode.
In his address, Minister of Planning Mr. Ashwani Kumar assured the Chief Minster for overall support for the various issues raised by the Chief Minister especially for construction of silo for food storage on pilot basis and modification of criteria of allocation of funds under centrally sponsored schemes. Prominent amongst others who attended the meeting included Deputy Chief Minister Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal, Local Govt. & Industry Minister Mr. Manoranjan Kalia, Finance & Planning Minister Dr. Upinderjit Kaur, Food & Supplies Minister Mr. Adesh Partap Singh Kairon Vice Chairman State Planning Board Prof. Rajinder Bhandari, Chief Parliamentary Secretary (Finance & Planning) Mr. Raj Khurana, Chief Secretary Mr. SC Agrawal, Principal Secretary to Chief Minister Mr. DS Guru, Principal Secretary Finance KBS Sidhu, Secretary Planning Mr. Satish Chandra, Special Secretary Planning Mrs. Manisha Trigathia Additional Principal Secretary Mr. Gaggandip Singh Brar, Resident Commissioner Punjab Bhawan Mr. K.Siva Prasad and other senior officers of the state government.
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JAIRAM RAMESH ASSURES CM FOR EARLY CLEARANCE OF PROJECTS UNDER NRCD Chandigarh/NEW DELHI

APRIL 06:

As a part of comprehensive plan for cleaning of the Punjab Rivers, the Union Minister of State for Environment & Forests Mr. Jairam Ramesh today assured the Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal that the pending Detailed Project Report (DPR) of Jalandhar town under phase-II of National River Conservation Plan on river Satluj at a cost of Rs.237.16 crore would be cleared positively by 15th May, 2011. Mr. Jairam Ramesh gave an assurance to this effect in a meeting
with Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal, who called on him

along with Deputy Chief Minister Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal here at his office this afternoon.Mr. Ramesh also asked the Director NRCD Mr. Brajesh Sikka to allow the state to carry out the works in the 22 towns subject to the condition of submission of final DPRs according to the revised guidelines issued by the Ministry of Environment & Forests GoI.
It may be recalled that the DPRs pending with NRCD for approval included; five towns Zira, Makhu, Talwandi Bhai, Dharmkot & Ferozepur) of River Sutlej costing Rs. 117.67 crore; five towns (Begowal, Sham Churasi, Dhilwan, Rayya & Kapurthala) of River Beas costing Rs. 70.33 crore and twelve towns (Rajpura, Patran, Khanauri, Lehragaga, Moonak, Sirhind-Fatehgarh Sahib, Nabha, Banur, Sanaur, Bassi Pathana, Mandi Gobindgarh and Dera Bassi) of River Ghaggar costing Rs. 296.96 crore.

On the request of the Chief Minister, Mr. Ramesh also assured him that he would soon convene a special meeting to clear the state government’s proposal for diversion of 9.306 hectare of forest land for construction of a 200 ft. wide Toll free road from Mullanpur upto T-Junction of Kurali-Siswan road in SAS Nagar Mohali at the earliest. Mr. Ramesh also agreed to the proposal put forth by the Chief Minister to develop Deer Safari and expand Mini Zoo Bir Talab Bathinda. He assured the Chief Minister that he would soon take up the matter with Central Zoo Authority for the approval of master plan submitted by the Chief Wildlife Warden Punjab in this regard and directed the Inspector General Wildlife Mr. AK Srivastava to expedite the matter. The Chief Minister expressed gratitude to Mr. Jairam Ramesh for showing keen interest in approving the sewerage schemes on the priority for abatement of pollution in the rivers of Punjab for ten towns.
Prominent amongst others who were present in the meeting included Deputy Chief Minister Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal, Principal Secretary to Chief Minister Mr. DS Guru, Principal Secretary Forests Mr. DS Bains, Additional Principal Secretary to Chief Minister Mr. Gaggandip Singh Brar. Mrs. Nalini Bhatt, Advisor Ministry of Environment & Forests also attended the meeting
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Food grain storage by central agencies

CM, DY. CM SEEK DR. MANMOHAN SINGH’S INTERVENTIONChandigarh/NEW DELHI APRIL 06:Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today impressed upon the Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh to immediately direct the concerned authorities to expedite movement of foodgrain from Punjab and to augment the storage space in the state.

Mr. Badal along with Deputy Chief Minister Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal raised this issue with the Prime Minister when they called on him at his residence this morning. Disclosing this here today a spokesperson of the Chief Minster’s Office said that Mr. Badal also urged the Prime Minister to also accord approval for the construction of covered godowns as per the proposal of state government at the earliest.

Mr. Badal also apprised the Prime Minister that Punjab was suffering on two accounts, the state was not getting adequate and quick movement of foodgrain on one hand and on the other hand the Government of India has not yet accorded the necessary approval for construction of storage capacity.

Allaying fears in such a scenario, Mr. Badal said that it would be difficult for Punjab to procure and store the recent crops that may lead to farmer unrest and serious law and order problem in this border state. He requested the Prime Minister to immediately accept the proposal of state government for storage capacity in the larger interest of the storage of foodgrains and national food security otherwise during the ensuing paddy season, there would be total chaos jeopardizing the law and order situation, if paddy was not lifted from the mandis.

It may be recalled that Punjab was facing acute shortage of space for the storage of foodgrains. As per a survey conducted by Govt. of India/FCI Punjab was having a shortage to the tune of 71 Lac MT. In view of this alarming shortage the state procurement agencies were compelled to store wheat in open and even on unscientific plinths such as rice mills, mandi yards, katcha plinths etc. At present more than 90% of wheat storage in Punjab wais in open. The shortage of covered space was adversely affecting the rice acceptance in the central pool. The storage of foodgrains in open and in the rice mills leads to deterioration in the quality of grain and rotting.

The Chief Minister also informed Dr. Singh that realizing the urgency of storage needs, the Punjab government has floated tenders for construction of covered godowns under PEG Scheme of Govt. of India for a capacity of 71 Lac MT. However, this capacity have been reduced to 51 Lac MT by GoI without any consultation with the state government. The FCI has finalized a capacity of only 13 Lac MT in the state at a rent rate upto Rs. 5.00 per quintal per month after a long cumbersome procedure of the tender at only 14 storage centres of Punjab. Although the state government has requested FCI to allow this rent rate for other storage centres also, so that additional capacity of around 35 lac MT could be made available but no positive response has been received from FCI/GoI as yet. Even the balance capacity has been reduced by another 5.00 lac MT.

Mr. Badal also mentioned that Punjab was likely to procure more than 110 lac MT wheat in this Rabi season. The slow and inadequate movement of foodgrains of previous years coupled with the acute shortage of storage space would again compel the procurement agencies to store wheat in open and even on unscientific katcha plinths. Resentment was constantly brewing amongst the employees of the state procurement agencies against the shortage of storage space and slow liquidation of the stocks from the state as they apprehend that they would be held responsible for deterioration and rotting of the stocks.

The Chief Minister also sought Dr. Singh’s personal intervention to direct the Department of Fertilizers to allocate 2 lac MT of DAP to the State during April and May for indigenous production till the imported material was received as timely and adequate availability of DAP was must to ensure the optimal production and procurement of paddy for the Central Pool.
Assuring of a positive response, Dr. Singh said that the Centre would certainly look into these issues raised by Mr. Badal sympathetically. He also assured the Chief Minister that he would ask the concerned ministries of Agriculture and Fertilizers besides FCI for clearing state government’s proposal for storage for foodgrains and ensure adequate & timely supply of DAP for the sowing of Kharif crops.

The Chief Minister was accompanied by Deputy Chief Minister Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal, Food & Supplies Minister Mr. Adesh Partap Singh Kairon, Chief Secretary Mr. SC Agrawal, Principal Secretary to Chief Minister Mr. DS Guru and Additional Principal Secretary to Chief Minister Mr. Gaggandip Singh Brar.
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Punjab to fill all vacant post of College Principals within two months – Sekhwan· Approves policy for regularisation of college lecturers

· Focuses on rationalisation of postings of college lecturers
· Punjab to do away with convocation gowns

Chandigarh March 6:

The Punjab Government is all set to fill the all vacant posts of college principals by promotion as well as direct recruitment within two months.

Presiding over the meeting of Principals of all government colleges in the state, Punjab Education Minister Mr. Sewa Singh Sekhwan said that Punjab Government was committed to improve the education standard in the government colleges and all principals besides faculty would have to make collective efforts to realize this dream. He said that seniority list of lecturers is being finalized and within two months eligible lecturers would be promoted as Principals. Mr. AR Talwar Principal Secretary Higher Education informed that PPSC has also scheduled interviews in 2nd week of May to recruit principals in the direct quota.

Coming to the another demand of principals for regularisation of Adhoc college lecturers, the Minister said that a three phased policy for their regularisation has already been approved under which NET qualified lecturers would be regularised in the first phase and in the 2nd phase the lecturers having M.Phil degrees on a particular date would be considered for regularisation and in the 3rd phase guest faculty full filling the minimum conditions would be regularised.
Exhorting the principals to lead from the front Mr. Sekhwan said that higher education Department has got highest ever budget allocation since independence and now it was imperative for them to raise the bar of standards in their respective colleges. He emphasized the need for introducing more vocational courses in the colleges so that students being churned out from the colleges should be employable.

Focusing on rationalisation of staff strength in each college the Minister said that a major rationalization exercise was under way and surplus staff would be posted in deficient colleges.

Asking the principals to express their views to do away with the convocation gowns, Mr. Sekhwan said that this gown reflected the colonial symbol of slavery and this was high time that we should get ourselves freed from this colonial mind set.
He underlined the need that all educational institutions should launch a concerted drive against copying in the exams as the campaign against copying in school education proved to be a grand success.

Speaking on the occasion Mr. AR Talwar urged the Principals to speak out their problems so that those could be redressed. He informed that the repair and additional construction works in the colleges would be completed by October this year.

While addressing the Principals, Mrs. Karamjit Kaur DPI Colleges Punjab said that the academic standards of all the government colleges especially situated in the rural areas would be improved by implementing the 11 point programme chalked out by the government.
A detailed presentation on proposed e-governance project chalked out for Punjab colleges was also made in the meeting.
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CHANDIGARH, APRIL 5:

In the light of decision of Hon'ble Supreme Court of India, the Punjab Government has directed all the building contractors involved in various construction works of the Punjab Government to register their workers with the Labour Welfare Board so that they could get due benefits from the various schemes launched by the Board.

Stating this here today a spokesman of Punjab Government said that instructions in this regard had already been issued to all the departments to take immediate action in compliance with the Supreme Court directive in this matter.
State Government has also directed to send one percent cess collected under section -3 of Building and Other Construction Labour Welfare Cess Act within a month in the from of bank draft in the name of Punjab Building and other Construction Workers Welfare Board Chandigarh. The field staff of Labour Department can also be contacted in this regard, the spokesman added.

He further said that construction works being under taken on contract by the Government Departments should also register themselves as main employer of the contract labour under section 7 of Regulation and Abolition Act 1970 and license as a contractor should be taken under section 23 of the above act, he added.
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Chief Electoral Officer Punjab, Ms. Kusumjit Sidhu

CHANDIGARH, APRIL 5:

Chief Electoral Officer Punjab, Ms. Kusumjit Sidhu has made a fervent appeal to the people in general and youth in the age group of 18-19 years in particular to enroll themselves as voters and submit the required details to prepare their voter identity cards well in time.

In a statement issued here today, Ms. Sidhu said that enrolment of eligible voters was utmost important keeping in view the forthcoming general election of PunjabVidhan Sabha.
Adding further, she said that inspite of the tireless efforts of the Voters Registration Officers, about 18 percent eligible voters could not be registered as per the voter list of 1.1.2011. Only 15 percent of the youth in the age group of 18-19 years could be enrolled in the voter lists.
She made an appeal to the intellectual community, writers, opinion makers, representatives of both electronic and print media to initiate a mass awareness campaign through the works in their respective fields so that more and more eligible people could be enrolled as voters in order to strengthen the democratic set up of our country and the target of 100 percent voter enrolment with voter identity cards could be achieved.
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PUNJAB ANNOUNCES 100 SCHOLARSHIPS TO POOR STUDENTS OF THREE YEARS TECHNICAL DIPLOMA COURSES

Chandigarh April 4:-

with a view to encourage meritorious students and students from poor families to pursue further education after 10th class, the Punjab State Board of Technical Education & Industrial Training has decided to give about 100 Scholarships and Full Fee Concession to the Diploma students studying in various Polytechnic Colleges of Punjab.

Disclosing this here today a spokesman of the Punjab Technical Education said that these scholarships worth Rs.12000/- each would be provided to students whose family income would be less than Rs.1.50 lacs. In addition to this, 40 students would also be awarded full fee concession amounting to Rs.27225/- each whose family income was less
than Rs. 1 lac, he added.

The spokesman further said that the 3 years Diplomas in Engineering were being awarded in 26 disciplines in 109 Polytechnic colleges in the State. The admission of these colleges would be held on the basis of Joint Entrance Test (JET) 2011 scheduled to be held on 15th of May this year. The Prospects of the same are already available in
designated Punjab National Bank Branches, Polytechnic Colleges and Suvidha Centres across the State. On completion of the diploma the students are also eligible for admission to 2nd year of Bachelor of Engineering, the spokesman added.
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PUNJAB APPROVES MASTER PLAN FOR 8 TOWNS

ZONING APPROVED FOR AREA NEAR
GURDAWARA BER SAHIB AT SULTANPUR LODHI

REGULATORY WING TO CHECK UNAUTHORIZED
CONSTRUCTION IN ALL THE SIX AUTHORITIES

CHANDIGARH MARCH 4:

The Punjab Government today approved the Master Plans for the planned development of eight towns included Sultanpur Lodhi, Hoshiarpur, Tran Taran, Sangrur, Bhaga Purana, Rama Mandi, Kotkapura and Fatehgarh Sahib.
A decision to this effect has been taken in the 22nd meeting of Punjab Regional Town Planning and Development Board under the Chairmanship of Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal at Chief Minister's residence this morning.
Disclosing this here today a spokesperson of the Punjab government said that Mr. Badal directed PUDA for zoning of the area near the historic Gurdawara Ber Sahib at Sultanpur Lodhi to prevent any haphazard residential construction.
It was also informed in the meeting that a Regulatory Wing of PUDA has been constituted to check unauthorized and illegal constructions falling in the jurisdiction of all the six authorities in their respective areas, in addition it would also ensure 100% compliance of all the by-laws in these areas.
The Chief Minister further asked board to prepare new master plans for the big villages with the population equivalent to a small town.
The Board also gave approval to include the gaps between various master plans implemented for Mohali by extending the jurisdiction of these master plans to avoid any kind of unauthorized construction.
Prominent amongst those who were present in these meetings included Local Government and Industry Minister Mr. Manoranjan Kalia, Finance & Planning Minister Dr. Upinderjit Kaur, Chief Parliamentary Secretary Housing and Urban Development Mr. Sarwan Singh Phillaur, Chief Secretary Mr. SC Agrawal, Principal Secretary to Chief Minister Mr. DS Guru, Financial Commissioner Rural Development and Panchayat Mr. Jagpal Singh Sandhu, Principal Secretary Industries Mr. SS Channy, Secretary Housing & Urban Development and MD PIDB Dr. Sukhbir Singh Sandhu, Additional Principal Secretary to the Chief Minister Mr. Gaggandip Singh Brar, Secretary Local Government Mr. SS Rajput, Chief Administrator PUDA Mr. Sarabjit Singh, and Chief Town Planner Mr. Kuldeep Singh Dhaliwal.
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PUNJAB HEALTH MINISTER CELEBRATES BIKRAMI SAMVANT 2068

CHANDIGARH,APRIL:4

Health & Family Welfare Minister Punjab Prof laxmi kanta chawla , celebrated new year Bikrami samvant 2068 at her official residence M.L.A flat sector-4, Chandigarh on the occasion a Havan Yajna has been perfound.
Speaking on the occasion she urged the people of the country to celebrate our traditional festivals with gaiety and fervor.
Relatives, friends and officers of the department attended the new year function. Prominent among others who attended function were Mr.A.R Talwar Financial Commissioner Revenue. Mr. Satish Chandra principal Secretary Health , Mr. Anurag Aggarwal , Mrs. Raji Srivastava MD health system corporation. Sh. Krishan kumar MD NRHM and Kunwar Vijay Partap IPS.
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ROTATIONAL IRRIGATION PROGRAMME FOR RABI SEASON ANNOUNCED

Chandigarh, April 4:

The Irrigation Department, Punjab has announced the Rotational Programme for irrigation for the current Rabi Season through Canal water from 4-4-2011 to 11-4-2011. The channels of Sirhind Canal System would run on the priority basis from Patiala feeder, Abohar Branch, Bist Doab Canal, Sidhwan Branch and Bathinda Branch respectively.

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

The spokesman further said that Abohar Branch off-taking from Sirhind Feeder and distributries in Group "B" being in the First preference will run to their ident. Balance water supplies available would be utilised in direct distributaries of Group 'A'.
The spokesman also said that the channels off taking from upper Bari Doab Canal i.e. Lahore Branch with its distributaries being in the first Preference would run to their indent .Balance water supplies water available would be utilised in Main Branch Lower, Kasur Branch Lower, Sabraon Branch with their distributaries respectively.
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Sukhbir has achieved nothing of which I could be jealous : Manpreet Badal

Chandigarh, 04 April

Honourable Chief Minister's comment that I am jealous of Sukhbir's rise in the politics amuses me. CM sahib has observed me from childhood, but I am surprised that he doesn't seem to realise that envy was never one of my failings. If I was jealous, then I wouldn't have gone out of the way, to fulfill whatever task was given to me by him. This included promotional campaigns during elections for the Deputy CM as well as his better half. I led the campaign in Faridkot and also campaigned ceaselessly during Bathinda MP elections.

Also, when he alleges that I am jealous of Sukhbir, I request him to substantiate that what am I jealous of? What achievement has Sukhbir notched so far, that should make me envious? Honestly, speaking, I can't find any accomplishment of his that should make me feel uneasy. I am a modest man and I derive strength from the support of my own well wishers and as both my recent meetings- first at Maghi and then at Khatkar Kalan show, there are people who believe in me. It is their opinion and affections that matter to me.

Also, this is the third time, the Chief Minister has termed me as thankless. He repeatedly makes a mention that I contested from Gidderbaha in 1995 on party's ticket. I only ask him, that did I disappoint the people of Gidderbaha as their MLA? Was I found wanting in my duties? Didn't I serve my constituency to the best of my capabilities? At least, the people of Gidderbaha thought that I did my best, which is why, they voted for Akali Dal for three consecutive terms after the first time and each time my victory margin was bigger than the last one. I will not detail my work because that was a part of my duty, but I think I was able to bring about a significant improvement in the health, education and the overall quality of life of people of my constituency, which increased people's faith in Akali Dal. I am surprised because what he is now saying is completely opposite to what he used to say after the 1995 elections. He would often praise me for taking the responsibility to fight when a lot of people were afraid to lose in view of the popularity of the Beant Singh government. Post my victory, he mentioned in several times during his public speeches that how the victory in Gidderbaha had revived the Akali Dal.

Similarly, he says that I was given the plum position of finance minister in my fourth term as legislator. What did he expect me to do, once I was given that position? To turn a blind eye towards the unconscionable expenditures of his ministers and some pampered bureaucrats? To not highlight state's precarious financial position? To not urge increase the tax collections? This is all I did but he exited me from the party.

CM sahib has also made reference to me causing a rift between him and his younger brother i.e. my father. Anyone who knows my father, will tell you, that he has always stood for what is right. In past, I have erred which has earned me his stern reprimands. But all along this time, he told me categorically, that I was correct and in fact, his guidance motivated me, to start Jago movement and now the People's Party. I know that if I was wrong, he would never have stood by me. He is a man of principles and unlike others isn't the one who blindly promote their own sons, at the cost of the party and the state. He supported his elder brother for five decades. He never contested elections on his own, despite his immense popularity in Punjab. He has always put state's and party's interest before his and his family's interests.

CM sahib's latest comment is the latest in a series of statements given by Congress and Akali leaders. On one hand they tell the media that I am inconsequential and on the other hand, they criticise me vehemently. If I am inconsequential, I wonder why do they reserve their strongest disapproval for me? Why do they go out of the way to use foul words against me?I am bothered only about what the common people of Punjab think of me. If they have faith in me, they will show it and if they don't trust then also, they will exhibit it.
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SUKHBIR SINGH BADAL ANNOUNCES RS. 1 CRORE CASH AWARD EACH TO YUVRAJ AND HARBHAJAN FOR THEIR STERLING PERFORMANCE IN WORLD CUP 2011

Chandigarh, April 3 :

Punjab Deputy Chief Minister Sukhbir Singh Badal today announced a cash award of Rs. One crore each to Harbhajan Singh and Yuvraj on India's historic World Cup win.

Deputy CM also felicitated M S Dhoni , Tendulkar and the team on their outstanding show. "We are all proud of you. This victory is all the sweeter as it came under so much pressure. Special word of congratulations to skipper Mahinder Singh Dhoni for his great innings and for leading the team with courage and aplomb"

Mr. Badal said that Mr. Yuvraj Singh who was declared ‘Man of the Tournament’ led the team from the front and throughout the tournament played a deciding role especially during crunch situations. He said that his contributions on batting, bowling and fielding fronts played an important role in victory of the team. He said that Mr. Harbhajan Singh, through his bowling restricted the run rate and claimed important wickets. He said that both players were instrumental in bringing world cup to the country after a gap of 28 years. Mr. Badal said that it was matter of great pride that in 1983 Punjab born Kapil Dev had brought world cup to India.

Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal who was also Chairman of the organizing Committee for successful conduct of Semi Final between India and Pakistan in Mohali, said that Punjab government would soon organise a grand ceremony in the state to honour the players.
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Punjab Government announces Rs One Crore each to Harbhajan and Yuvraj

Chandigarh April 3 -
Punjab Deputy Chief Minister Sukhbir Singh Badal today announced a cash award of Rs. One crore each to Harbhajan Singh and Yuvraj on India's historic World Cup win. The Deputy CM also felicitated M S Dhoni, Tendulkar and the team on their outstanding show. "We are all proud of you. This victory is all the sweeter as it came under so much pressure. Special word of congratulations to skipper Mahinder Singh Dhoni for his great innings and for leading the team with courage and aplomb" said Sukhbir Singh in a message to the Indian skipper. He also announced that the players would be honoured at a special function by the Punjab government.