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Congress condemns the extravaganza and jubilation displayed by the Badal duo at Bathinda last night, while the nation was mourning the death of Sh.I.K.Gujral Ex Prime Minister.

Sukhpal Singh Khaira
Ex-MLA
            It was saddening to note the extravagant, pomp and show displayed by the CM and his Dy.CM son at Bathinda last night, on the occasion of opening ceremony of World Kabbadi Cup. As we are aware Sh. I.K.Gujral Ex-Prime Minister of India had died on 30.11.12, Govt. of India had declared a seven day mourning to express grief over his death. Unfortunately, Sh. Badal a seasoned, veteran politician and long time friend of Sh. Gujral chose to inaugurate the Kabbadi Cup at Bathinda amidst jubilation, fireworks and dancing by Bollywood stars including Mr Akshay Kumar. By doing so,  the Badal duo has not only humiliated and undermined the contribution of Sh. Gujral towards India but have also rubbed salt on the wounds of fellow colleague Sh. Naresh Gujral, who also happens to be an Akali Rajya Sabha MP.
            On account of the death of Sh. Gujral, the opening ceremony should also have been either postponed or kept a low key affair, as a mark of respect to the departed soul. It only goes to show the scantiest respect that the Akali Dal has for Sh. Gujral, who was instrumental in waiving off the Rs 8500 cr term loan of the militancy days.
            The congress terms the Kabbadi Cup an image enhancement event for the Badal family. The whole show is politically motivated aimed at garnering votes and popularity rather than promotion of Kabbadi as a game. As per information sought by an RTI activist of Ropar, there are only 11 Kabbadi coaches in the 22 districts of Punjab. The govt. spent Rs 15.56 cr last year of which Rs 5.67 cr was spent on cultural programmes alone. Even yesterday the actors including Mr Akshay Kumar, Ms Asin, Ms Pooja etc. have charged crores of rupees from the govt. Tax payers money cannot be squandered for such flamboyant actors who were actually promoting one of their forthcoming commercial films.
            In case the govt. is serious to promote kabbadi, they should organize league tournaments beginning from village level, then block level to district and finally the state level, so that thousands of our players can participate. At the moment only a few dozen Punjabi boys or girls get an opportunity to play, while rest is all a fun gala programme for the audiences. Therefore, congress urges the Badal duo to redraw the entire Kabbadi game plan in the interest of genuine promotion of sports and not self
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Capt Amarinder lashes out at govt over dance, fireworks at Bathinda during state mourning

CHANDIGARH, December 2:

Punjab Pradesh Congress Committee President Capt Amarinder Singh today lashed out at the Chief Minister Parkash Singh Badal and his Deputy Chief Minister son Sukhbir Badal for presiding over a music and dance show and fireworks at Bathinda on Saturday when the entire country, including Punjab, was in a state of mourning over the death of the former Prime Minister Mr Inder Kumar Gujaral.
In a statement issued here today, Capt Amarinder said, it was an act of extreme impropriety and utter shamelessness when the Chief Minister Badal had himself announced state mourning across Punjab that he not only allowed the show of celebrations, festivities, dance and fireworks, but presided over it. “Was Mr Badal mourning or celebrating the death of the former Prime Minister who happened to be the first Punjabi Prime Minister of the country and a great friend of Punjab?” he asked.
He ridiculed Mr Badal’s crocodile tears over Mr Gujaral’s death. He said, on the one hand the Chief Minister was wailing and whining over the loss of the great son of the soil, while at the same time he was gleefully enjoying the dance show and fireworks to mark the inauguration of the Kabbadi tournament that his son has been claiming to be the world cup, which actually it is not.
Punjab Congress president said, his party will be complaining to the Punjab Governor about such an impropriety on part of the Punjab government. “The governments do not announce state mourning for the sake of formality which Mr Badal has tried to make it”, he observed, while asserting, “it is out of grief and respect for the departed leader”. But, he added, Mr Badal and his son have actually shown no grief and respect for the departed leader and have rather celebrated it.
Capt Amarinder asked, what was the great deal about the dance show of a Bollywood actor? “They could always have waited for the mourning period to pass”, he observed, while remarking, “instead, Mr Badal took a straight flight from the cremation of Mr Gujaral to the celebrations of his son, which is quite unfortunate and unbecoming of a Chief Minister”.

Congress seeks Valtoha’s resignation over fake FIR

AMRITSAR/CHANDIGARH, December 2:

Congress leaders from district Tarn Taran today sought the resignation of Chief Parliamentary Secretary Virsa Singh Valtoha for his role in the registration of a false FIR in police station Khalra aimed at protecting two murder accused from Uttrakhand.
Addressing a press conference today senior Congress leaders including former minister Gurchet Singh Bhullar, Tarn Taran district president Dharampal Agnihotri, PCC secretary Harminder Gill and the vice president Punjab Youth Congress Sukhpal Bhullar said that the matter be probed by the Central Bureau of Investigation as has already been demanded by the PCC President Capt Amarinder Singh.
The Congress leaders alleged that the Khalra police station SHO had registered the case of having confiscated liquor form the murder accused in order to shield them by creating false evidence at the behest of Valtoha only. They said, now the police officials have been made scapegoats in order to protect Valtoha.
They maintained that as long as Valtoha remains the CPS there was no chance of an independent probe since the dismissed police cops can never reveal the truth fearing reprisal from the CPS. The Congress leaders said, only a CBI probe and removal of Valtoha as the CPS can help in establishing the truth about the registration of a false FIR to protect the murder accused.
The issue relates to the alleged seizure of five crates of liquor by Khalra police from two people belonging to Uttrakhand. Later it turned out that the two were accused of murder that took place just half an hour before they were shown to have been nabbed with liquor at Khalra in Tarn Taran district.
This was apparently done to create false evidence that they were not present at the scene of the crime. The Congress leaders said, the police had shown them arrested at the behest of Valtoha which makes him part of the conspiracy for which he should be booked and removed from the post of CPS.

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GALA OPENING OF 3RD WORLD CUP KABADDI MAKES ITS DETERMINED ARRIVAL ON WORLD SPORTS SCENE

• HOMAGE PAID TO FORMER PM INDER KUMAR GUJRAL
•      CM DEDICATES 3RD WORLD CUP KABADDI TO FORMER PM
• ·        OPENING PROGRAM SHORTENED BY TWO HOURS
• ·        FIREWORK IN THE OPENING PROGRAM ELIMINATED
• ·        FLAGS OF PARTICIPATING COUNTRY NOT HOISTED TO PAY TRIBUTE TO FORMER PM
• ·        BIGGEST SPORTS EXTRAVAGANZA UNFOLDS IN PUNJAB AS SUKHBIR TERMS IT AS A BEGINNING OF SPORT REVOLUTION
• ·        23 TEAMS FROM 18 NATIONS MAKE A SPIRITED ATTEMPT TO WIN RS.6.29 CRORE
• ·        THE CHARMING APPEAL OF AKSHAY, ASIN AND CLAUDIA CAPTURE THE MINDS OF 6 CONTINENTS

BATHINDA, DECEMBER 1:

The traditional game of Punjab Kabaddi today announced its determined arrival on World Sports Scene as 23 teams, 16 men and 7 women, from all the six continents, descended on the heartland of Malwa as Punjab witnessed biggest ever sports extravaganza in the gala but somber opening of 3rd World Cup Kabaddi.
The Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal and Punjab Deputy Chief Minister Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal paying homage to Former Prime Minister Mr. Inder Kumar Gujral reiterated their resolve to make Punjab most literate in scientific temperament that also excelled in sports as visualized by former Prime Minister. Chief Minister dedicated the 3rd World Cup Kabaddi to former Prime Minister to Mr. Inder Kumar Gujral and nurturing sports talent amongst Punjabi youth would be the befitting tribute to him.The Chief Minister said that he had cancelled all the events during the mourning period of Former PM but third world Cup Kabaddi being the International event could not be cancelled and rescheduled.

The originally scheduled four hour long opening extravaganza was curtailed to one hour 45 minutes in view of demise of former PM. It was also decided to do away with 15 minute long firework program in the ceremony. It was also decided not to hoist the flags of participating countries in view of mourning period.
The Multipurpose Sports Stadium that was all decked up to welcome players from 18 countries gave a befitting show showcasing the rich culture and history of the pious land of Punjab, showcasing the progress made by the state during last six years and also reflecting the vision of the present government for next 25 years. As world famous DJ Nitin begun the show with the somber note, a two minute silence was observed to pay homage to former Prime Minister Mr. Inder Kumar Gujral. A voice over recalling the contribution of first Punjabi Prime Minister towards country in general and Punjab in particular resounded the stadium; every eye of the participants as well as audience became moist in his fond remembrance.
The show that started on somber note captured everyone’s imagination at the end with Bollywood Superstar Akshay and famous Bollywood Ghajni fame starlet Asin and Claudia (German Actress) in their true style performing on the sound track of his upcoming film Khiladi 786, the Akshay and Asin duo surprised everyone as they entered the stadium on a decked up truck as the truck moved on the periphery of the stadium Akshay, Asin and Claudia won the hearts of pre-dominant Punjabi audience by waiving on them and doing ‘Sat Sri Akal’ with the elder ones.  The much enthused audience were trying to storm in much barricaded stadium but Akshay on the slow moving truck tried to please everyone in the audience. As the background music track switched to the latest song of Khiladi 786, Akshay, Asin and Claudia moved to the center stage and gave their spirited performance along with a troupe of 49 dancers. As the show reached its crescendo, the troupe of dancers froze on the stage with Akshay, Asin and Claudia moving out of stadium in a convertible car wishing a grand success to the 3rd Edition of World Cup Kabaddi.
Earlier Taz from Stereo Nation and Miss Pooja mesmerized the audience with their chart buster numbers with hundreds of dancers beautifully choreographed setting a stage for mega show.

The opening ceremony began with the cadets of NCC march past in the stadium on the beats of Army Band. The visual snippets gave an overview of first two editions of World Cup Kabaddi that has brought the traditional game of Punjab on the center stage of world’s sports arena. As the show began the famous compere Joy Bath and Satti took the center stage and Joy in his famous style energized the audience preparing them for a live two hour star studded show that would make the beginning of 15 day sports carnival. As Satti spoke about the rich cultural heritage of Punjab and importance of Kabaddi in Punjabi Culture, the countdown began for a musical show with 22 drummers announcing the determined arrival of traditional Punjabi game on International scene.
The show began with 24 Zorbing Balls show in which dancers in 8’ transparent zorbing balls created a choreographed spectacle as they moved in ground into various patterns and forms beautifully assisted by colourful LED lights. The show performed first time in India transformed the total environment of the stadium.  
The second act of the colourful evening began with the show ‘Hindustan Dee Shaan-Punjab’, in which 1200 children with frames depicting to create five rivers of Punjab interspersed with water screens and laser lights with voiceover giving the rich cultural history of Punjab and also underlining the vision of present Government to meet the challenges of future. As the puppets joined the children on the stage and on the ground the act concluded with huge colourful GOBOS on the ground.
The Punjabi masculinity was on full scene as Captains of 23 teams entered the stadium riding on the pillion bullet motorcycles, each bullet tagged with the country they belonged to. The Kabaddi Teams entered the stadium in a geometrical order and took position on the stage against the respective flags of their country. As the players lined-up, the whole stadium was lit up with a laser show. As the third group of children made a choreographed pattern on the ground and flip their calesthenic boards to create the face of Deputy CM Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal, at that moment the Deputy Chief Minister appeared in the ground on a hydraulic lift. As he reached the stage and shook hands with Captains of each team on the stage the voiceover spoke about the initiatives of Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal in popularizing the traditional game of Kabaddi.
The moment introduction ceremony was over the ‘JAANBAAZ’, the mascot of the game appeared dramatically on the hydraulic with a baton on his hand. The Jaanbaaz hands over baton to first athlete in the VIP Box and baton passes on from first athlete to second waiting athlete and so on in anti clockwise direction and where it is finally handed over to Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal and Deputy Chief Minister Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal and Chief Minister declared the 3rd Edition of World Cup Kabaddi Open. As the games were declared open Captains of all the teams step forward to take a oath that they would play the game in the true spirit of sportsmanship.
Speaking on the occasion Punjab Deputy Chief Minister said that it was his dream to take traditional game of Kabaddi to Olympic level. He said that an humble beginning has already been made with Director of Sports of International Olympic Association sending a communiqué to him wishing the 3rd Edition of World Cup Kabaddi a grand success. He said that the first edition of World Cup Kabaddi that started with 9 nations has reached a level in which 23 teams, 17 male and 6 female from 18 nations descended in Punjab to participated in this game. Mr. Badal said that he was happy for the fact that teams of 8 nations have no player of Indian origin and Kabaddi has now become a truly international game.
Striking an emotional chord with the people, the Punjab Chief Minister Mr Parkash Singh Badal dedicated this world Kabaddi Cup to the late former Prime Minister of India Mr Inder Kumar Gujral, who was a true son of Punjab. In his inaugural address the Chief Minister said that the World Kabaddi Cup was a real tribute to the late former Prime Minister Mr Inder Kumar Gujral as it was his mission to promote brotherhood, goodwill and peace in the Indian Subcontinent, a work that was being ably done by this tournament. He hoped that this event would go a long way in accomplishing the mission of friendship and harmony between the participating countries especially between India and Pakistan, which was a cherished dream of Mr Gujral. Mr Badal further said that to pay homage to the departed leader he had cancelled all his official programs till December 6 however as this prestigious event was an international affair so it could not have been cancelled on the spot.
Terming the day as a ‘Red letter day’ in the history of the state, the Chief Minister congratulated the team of Deputy Chief Minister Mr Sukhbir Singh Badal and his team for organizing this gala event aimed towards recognizing the Kabaddi at international level. He said that as the people of state regard Punjabi as their mother language in the same manner they consider Kabaddi as their mother sport however unfortunately it had been ignored since long. However Mr Badal said that owing to the stupendous efforts made by the Deputy Chief Minister the game has been recoginesed  not only in the country but in Asian, African and even the European countries. “I am sure that the day is not far when this popular game of the Punjabis will be included in the Olympics also” added Mr Badal.Has he declared vthe game open the stadium lit up with colourful lights.  

Cabinet Ministers including Mr. Bikram Singh Majithia, Mr. Janmeja Singh Sekhon, Mr. Sikander Singh Maluka, Mr. Parminder Singh Dhindsa, Mr. Sarwan Singh Phillaur, Mr. Ajit Singh Kohar and Chief Parliamentary Secretary Mr. Pawan Kumar Tinu and scores of MLA participated in the mega event. From Afghanistan Mohammad Zahir Aghbar, President Islamic Republic of Afghanistan and Begum Anarkali, Senator came specially to become part of this mega show.  

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BADAL CANCELS ALL PUBLIC FUNCTIONS IN VIEW OF STATE MOURNING TILL DECEMBER 6
·        FRESH DATES TO BE ANNOUNCED LATER ON
Chandigarh, December 1 –
            In view of the seven day state mourning declared by the Punjab Government to pay tributes to the late former Prime Minister Mr Inder Kumar Gujral, the Punjab Chief Minister Mr Parkash Singh Badal today canceled all his pre-scheduled public functions across the state till December 6.
            Disclosing this here today a spokesperson of the Chief Minister’s Office said that these functions included inauguration of CII’s Agro Tech Fair on December 2. However the light and sound program on the legendary Sikh warrior Baba Banda Singh Bahadur by Sikh Virsa Vihar, Amritsar would be organized at Chapparchiri War Memorial in Mohali as per schedule tomorrow but the Chief Minister would not participate in the function. Likewise, the Chief Minister has also cancelled the inauguration of various development projects in Bholath Assembly segment on December 3 besides his two-day Sangat Darshan program in Lambi assembly segment on December 4 and 5. Meanwhile the Chief Minister has also cancelled the inauguration of PHD Chamber’s annual International Trade Expo (PITEX)-2012 at Amritsar on December 6.
            But the Chief Minister would attend the inaugural function of Indian School of Business (ISB) at Mohali to be inaugurated by the Union Finance Minister Mr P Chidambaram tomorrow. The fresh dates of these functions which had been either postponed or cancelled due to the state mourning in the respect of departed leader would be announced later on by the Chief Minister’s Office, the spokesperson added. 
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3rd World Cup Kabbadi 2012
SCOTTISH TEAM CAPTIVATES THE AUDIENCE ADORING TRADITIONAL SKIRT ATTIRE
·        SCOTTISH TEAM SURPRISED TO SEE THE PASSION OF PUNJABIS FOR THE GAME OF KABADDI: SCOTTISH CAPTAIN BIAIR HAWTHORN
BATHINDA/CHANDIGARH,  DECEMBER 1:
The Scottish Kabaddi team adoring in their traditional attire of skirt shape dress today captivated the audience when they entered the ground to participate in the World Cup Kabaddi-2012.
This team, from the north-end of globe, has descended for the first time to participate in the mother game of Punjabis-Kabaddi. The entire stadium resounded with claps to welcome the guest Scottish team.
Speaking with the media, the captain of the Scottish team Mr. Biair Hawthorn said that they are surprised to see the love of Punjabis for the game of Kabaddi. He said that the passion of Punjabis for Kabaddi is the same as scottish people love the football game.
Mr. Hawthron further said, ‘the game of Kabaddi caught the attention world-wide, when the Punjab Government had successfully managed to launch the Kabaddi at the world platform by conducting World Cup Kabaddi in 2010 first time”. He said that under the motivation and insipration of Punjabis living in Scottland, they mastered the techniques of Kabaddi in a very short span of time. He eulogized their coach Mr. Prem singh (Jalandhar based NRI) for his efforts in the constitution of Scottish Kabaddi team.

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3RD WORLD CUP KABADDI-2012
KENYA’S VOYAGE FROM MARTIAL ART TO KABADDI-A PARADIGM SHIFT
·        KENYA BECOMES THE FIRST TEAM OF THE AFRICAN CONTINENT TO PARTICIPATE IN THE WORLD CUP KABADDI
BATHINDA/CHANDIGARH, DECEMBER 1:
Kenya has become the first nation of the African Continent, which has descended down to the heartland of the Malwa to participate in World Cup Kabaddi. Two teams from the African Continents are participating in this 3rd edition of World Cup Kabaddi, besides Kenya second entry from African Continent is Sierra Leone.
Visually enthralled Captain of the Kenyan Mr. Johan Khakame, while speaking to the media, said that Kenya is known for its passion for Martial Art sports. He added, “Now, the game of the Kabaddi has become the ‘new love’ of the Kenyans”. He said that the Kenya has produced the universally renowned players of Tai-Kwando, Rugby and Kick Boxing. He said that the Kenyan Kabaddi team has been structured under the supervision of their coach Mr. Manjinder Singh, the Punjabi origin NRI. Mr. Khakame further said that, “this is the beginning and in the 4th edition of the World Cup Kabaddi, many more African nations will join the flock marching toward Kabaddi.

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3rd World Cup Kabaddi Punjab-2012
KABADDI INCHING TOWARDS INDUCTION IN OLYMPICS ARENA
·        INTERNATIONAL OLYMPICS COMMITTEE ACKNOWLEDGES WORLD CUP KABADDI; SENDS GREETING FOR ITS GRAND SUCCESS
CHANDIGARH, NOVEMBER 30:
Kabaddi has caught the attention of top international sports authority as International Olympics Committee (IOC) sent facilitations to the Punjab Government for the success of World Kabaddi Cup-2012. Disclosing this here today, Mr. Sikander Singh Maluka, President, Punjab Kabaddi Association said that Kabaddi is fast marching forward for getting berth in the arena of Olympics. He said that the Punjab Government has received greetings from the IOC, Wishing state government for the success of World Kabaddi Cup-2012.
            Education Minister further said that there is no iota of doubt that Kabaddi has now caught the attention of the world. He said that the participation of 23 teams from the six continents of the world is the manifestation of popularity of this game world over. He said that in the third World Kabaddi Cup, teams from African continent (Kenya and Sierra Leone) and Australian continent (New Zealand) are also participating. Mr. Maluka further said that the Punjab Government has resolved to work tirelessly till the time this mother game of Punjabis is inducted in to Olympics.

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3rd World Cup Kabbadi Punjab-2012
12 MEN AND 3 WOMEN KABBADI TEAMS ARRIVED
·       PAKISTAN, SIERRA LEONE AND ARGENTINA TEAMS WOULD ARRIVE TOMORROW
Chandigarh, November 30:
To participate in 3rd World Cup Kabbadi Punjab -2012, 12 men and 3 women teams arrived in Punjab today. Three more teams would arrive by tomorrow morning. (December 1, 2012)
Disclosing this here today a spokesman of Punjab Government said that teams in men section England, Afghanistan, Denmark, Canada, New Zealand, Norway, India, Scotland, Italy, Iran, Kenya and USA have arrived in Punjab and in women section teams of India, England and Malaysia have also arrived today. Warm welcome was showered to the visiting teams by the Punjab Government. The teams who are scheduled to land tomorrow included Pakistan, Sierra Leone and Argentina.

One of the greatest sons of Punjab, a secular democrat, and a world leader: says BADAL
"Mr. Gujral's services were needed at this critical hour in Indo-Pak relations"

CM GRATEFULLY RECALLS "COURAGEOUS DEBT WAIVER" OF 8500 CRORE 

Chandigarh, November 30- "Punjab today has lost one of its greatest and most illustrious sons and the country one of its most brilliant and tallest leaders of the post independence era. The world is poorer this hour  by the departure of a visionary statesmen who will long be remembered as an outstanding champions of  international peace and understanding. I am really  short of words to express just how big the loss is for me personally and for all of us in Punjab and the country. Today, I am without one of my best and most trustworthy friends,  a great and sensitive gentleman whose heart was always overflowing with love for Punjab  and its people,""
      
      This is how the Punjab Chief Minister Mr Parkash Singh Badal reacted when informed about the sad demise of former Prime Minister of India Mr Inder Kumar Gujral earlier today. 

      Mr. Badal air-dashed to Delhi to be with the family of  " a true liberal and secular democrat" in this hour of "huge personal and  national loss."  
     "This is a particularly  sad blow at this time as Gujral  Sahib was among the greatest champions of peace and friendly relations between India and Pakistan. His vision, commitment and his ability to persevere with his efforts towards bringing the two countries together are just beginning to bear fruit. I wish he had remained with us at this crucial juncture in Indo-Pak ties,"  said Mr. Badal 
  
Later, in a statement issued through the Chief Minister's Office, Mr. Badal said that the country at large and the people of Punjab in particular would think of Mr. Gujral with   'fond gratitude'. "The role Mr. Gujral played in lending immense global stature to the Indian voice on the world stage and the finesse with which he addressed and resolved many of the most intricate issues of foreign policy will continue to inspire the lovers of peace and understanding among countries of the world, especially in this region and even more especially in the context of India-Pakistan ties," said the Chief Minister 
        
   Mr. Badal  said that the people fo Punjab will never forget the daring and decisive role played by Gujral Sahib in helping his state get rid of the crippling Special Term Loan of Rs.8500 crores which the state had incurred in fighting the nation's battle during the days of militancy. "The memory of the moment in which Gujral Sahib as Prime Minister  waived the entire loan off with just a mild but firm stroke of his pen is still etched deep in my mind. We took about 21 most difficult  issues of the state to Gujral Sahib and he took just 11 minutes to solve all those and to issue clear orders then and there. This was  one of the happiest moments in my public and personal  life and a great moment for Punjab," said Mr. Badal.
   Mr. Badal recalled his long association with Mr. Gujral and said that the former Prime Minister always rose above the constraints of his political affiliation to stand by the people of  his state. "Gujral Sahib was always very keen to resolve the issues of Punjab and always threw his weight behind the demands that we were fighting for.  He was a true champion of peace and communal harmony in Punjab. Despite being in the Congress, Mr. Gujral raised his voice courageously against injustice done to the people of his state and wanted a peaceful resolution of all issues. The role he played during and after the 1984 massacre of innocent Sikhs will always be remembered," said the Chief Minister. 
       
       
The Chief Minister said that Mr Gujral’s forthright initiatives in fostering goodwill, trust, peace and amity in Indian Subcontinent especially in strengthening Indo-Pak relations would ever be remembered by one and all. Later these initiatives popularly known as ‘Gujral Doctrine’ were widely admired in the international polity in bringing peace and friendship besides improving bilateral ties between India and Pakistan, which originally laid the foundation of  the ongoing steps taken in the form of Confidence Building Measures (CBMs) to further smoothen relations between both the countries.  He said that being a multi faceted personality Mr Gujral was an institution in himself, who played a proactive role in promoting the ethos of democracy by strengthening the bonds of national integration, communal harmony and universal brotherhood besides a true champion of freedom of Press. Having deep regard and passion for Punjabi culture, language and literature, he was a true votary of Punjab, Punjabi and Panjabiat, added Mr Badal.  
            Terming Mr Gujral’s demise as a personal loss, the Chief Minister said in his death a void has been created in the national as well as international polity, which was hard to be filled in near future. Mr Badal said in the passing away of Mr Gujral he has lost a true friend, a guide and a philosopher to whom he always held him in high esteem and reverence.
            Sharing his heartfelt sympathies with the members of the bereaved family especially his son and Rajya Sabha MP Mr Naresh Gujral, and other members of the family the Chief Minister prayed for eternal peace to the departed soul and for courage and srength to family , friends and followers to bear this huge loss". 
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SUKHBIR CONDOLES FORMER PRIME MINISTER I.K. GUJRAL’S DEMISE

Chandigarh, November 30: The Punjab Deputy Chief Minister Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal expressed deep sorrow over the demise of Mr. I.K. Gujral (92), former Prime Minister of India, who passed away after prolonged illness at New Delhi today.
In a condolence message Mr. Badal said that Mr. Gujral, the first Punjabi Prime Minister would be dearly remembered by the people of Punjab for his benevolence for waiving the loan during his term and sanctioning Pushpa Gujral Science City for the state. He said that he always raised the issues concerning Punjab in Delhi in a forceful way.
Mr. Badal expressed his heartfelt sympathies with the bereaved family and prayed to Almighty to grant peace to the departed soul and strength to the family members to bear this irreparable loss.
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MAJITHIA CONDOLES DEMISE OF FORMER PM I.K. GUJRAL
CHANDIGARH, NOVEMBER 30: Mr Bikram Singh Majithia, Revenue and Public Relations Minister, Punjab today mourned the demise of former Prime Minister Inder Kumar Gujral (92), who passed away at Gurgaon after a prolonged illness.
In a condolence message, Mr Majithia said that the demise of Mr Gujral, a great diplomatic politician, has left a void in the political arena of the country. He said that Mr Gujral’s contribution to the nation, especially for Punjab would always be remembered for generations to come. He said that it was Mr. Gujral, who waived a huge debt of Punjab and brought economic prosperity in the state. He said that Pushpa Gujral Nari Niketan in Jalandhar and Pushpa Gujral Science City on Jalandhar-Kapurthala Road were his immense contribution to Punjab.
Sharing his heartfelt sympathies with the bereaved family, Mr. Majithia prayed to the Almighty to grant peace to the departed soul and strength to the family members to bear this irreparable loss. 
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AMBIT OF SCHOOL HEALTH PROGRAM WIDENED WITH INCLUSION OF SEVERAL RENOWNED PRIVATE HOSPITALS

NEARLY 3200 OUT OF 5000 SCHOOL CHILDREN CURED FOR SERIOUS AILMENTS

TO PROVIDE THE BEST MEDICAL FACILITIES TO THE CHILDREN PROMPTLY

THREE STATE MEDICAL COLLEGES TO UNDERTAKE PRELIMINARY CHECK-UP OF THE IDENTIFIED SCHOOL CHILDREN

SPECIAL MEDICAL CAMPS FOR TREATMENT OF CHILDREN WITH LOW VISION AND HEARING IMPAIRED FROM DECEMBER 5 AND 11

CHANDIGARH NOVEMBER 30:
In a bid to provide prompt and the best health care facilities to the children studying in Government Schools under the School Health Program on priority, the state government has tied up with renowned private hospitals Christian Medial College, Dayanand Medical College and Mohan Dai Oswal Charitable Hospital in Ludhiana besides Fortis, Silver Oaks & Ivy Hospital in Mohali for treatment of the children, who are suffering from life-threatening ailments like rheumatic and congenital heart disease (hole in the heart), cancer and thallasemia. 
Disclosing this here today Director General School Education Mr. Kahan Singh Pannu said that this decision had been taken to include these prestigious hospitals on the panel apart from the already existing PGIMER Chandigarh because the heavy rush there prevented these school children for getting timely treatment.  The state government had also directed the three state Medical Colleges at Patiala, Amritsar and Faridkot to undertake preliminary check-up of the identified school children and refer their cases for further treatment to private hospitals through Director of Health Services.  Earlier, the process of preliminary check-ups along with was carried out at the PGI, which was the long and tedious procedure, resulting in huge backlog and endless waiting period. 
As many as 1021 out of 1493 children have been treated for the hole in heart, 87 out of 131 for cancer, 68 out of 84 for thallesemia, 1771 out of 2840 for polio/cerebral palsy/congenital deformities, 216 out of 244 cleft lip/palette.  Likewise, 587 children afflicted with low vision and 2224 with hearing impaired would be provided treatment in the medical camps being organized from December 5 and 11 respectively.   
To expedite the process, Mr. Pannu has now asked the District Education Officers to send all children who were suspected to have some medical problem, to the medical colleges for quick diagnosis and immediate further treatment at private hospitals after referral.  Efforts to get surgeries done at private hospitals have yielded encouraging results. The department was now considering to involve more such hospitals to provide timely medical intervention to school children near their homes as to seek treatment for their wards from PGI was not only cumbersome but also time consuming.
For rehabilitation of children suffering from Polio and Cerebral Palsy, the department launched the Surgical Correction Project and has tied up with Christian Medical College and Guru Teg Bahadur Sahib Charitable Hospital in Ludhiana, Amandeep Hospital in Amritsar and Oberoi Hospital in Jalandhar. Surgeries of children with congenital deformities as well as CP and residual Polio cases were performed at these hospitals. After removal of plaster, long-term physiotherapy treatment was provided to the children. The program have been a huge success due to which 1771 children have discovered a new way of living by standing and walking on their own feet again.
To help all children with weak eyesight or vision problems, it has been directed to School Heads for taking all children suspected of having refractive error to the nearest PHC/CHC for further check-up and provision of spectacles on every Thursday, which has been dedicated as a day for check-up of the school children.
The department has also tied up with Sightsavers (an NGO) for proper diagnosis of children having extremely Low Vision, who could not read even with spectacles. These children would be provided the necessary assistive devices after their check-up and would be provided Large Print Books as per their requirement. The Department has also planned Audiometry testing for hearing impaired children. After the test, the children would be provided state-of-the-art Behind The Ear (BTE) cordless digital type hearing aids totally free of cost so that they could make use of their residual hearing to live a normal life.
The Department had also launched a campaign for eradication of the cleft lip/palette condition among children. Under this campaign, the department tied-up with Smile Train (an NGO).  As many as 244 children with clefts were identified out of which, 216 were operated successfully during the 6-week campaign period.  Cleft lip deformity among existing children has been eradicated in Punjab with efforts of the education department and the Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan program. 
After the children recovered from the surgical correction and were provided adequate speech therapy or physiotherapy, efforts were made to enroll them in a neighborhood school if they were not previously enrolled. Through this school health and surgical correction program launched by the Education department in collaboration with NRHM and various private hospitals and NGOs, many children have been given a new lease of life and many have discovered a new way of living, thus helping them become part of the mainstream education system and grow up to lead fruitful, meaningful lives.

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PUNJAB TO COME OUT WITH NEW HOUSING POLICY BY DECEMBER 15- SUKHBIR
·        NEW POLICY TO GIVE INCENTIVES TO MULTISTORY BUILDINGS
·        FOCUS NOW ON NEW BUILDING TECHNOLOGY FOR HIGH RISE BUILDINGS & EWS HOUSINGS

SAS Nagar Mohali/Chandigarh, November 29: The Punjab government would soon notify a new policy for attracting investment in realty sector and the new policy would be in the public domain by December 15.
Deputy Chief Minister Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal was talking to media after laying the foundation stone of a 10 storey building here today that would be completed within 48 hours using latest factory fabricated technology. Mr. Badal said that Punjab was all set to become new investment destination as it was having the highest growth rate even when national economy was in doldrums. He said that the new policy of housing sector was aimed at making it hassle free for the investor, ensuring time bound clearances besides offering incentives in Floor Area Ratio etc. He said that Punjab would like to encourage high rise buildings besides ensuring convenience of the user. He said that we limited availability of land, the only answer was going vertical. Mr. Badal said that the new policy would incentivize high rise buildings.
Announcing construction of 2 lac EWS houses within next 1 year, Mr. Badal said that the new building technology unveiled today could be used in such houses. Mr. Badal asked PUDA to study the suitability and economy of new technology for mass housing and submit a report in this regard.
Earlier, Mr. Badal laid the foundation stone of the new 10 storey building that would be completed within 48 hours using factory fabricated technology.
Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Harpal Singh, MD of the company said that purpose of this sample building was to showcase new building technology that can expedite the construction work besides saving energy.
Prominent amongst those who were present on the occasion included Mr. N.K. Sharma, Chief Parliamentary Secretary, Mr. S.S. Saini, DGP, Mr. Balwant Singh Ramoowalia, Ex-Union Minister and other senior leaders.

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PUNJAB TO DEVELOP PIG AND FISH FARMS FOR
BETTER ECONOMIC PROSPERITY-----PHILLAUR
Chandigarh November 29:  The Punjab government has formulated an extensive policy to preserve, protect, strengthen and improve the livestock thereby creating self employment avenues for the youth in the state. This was stated here today by Mr. Sarwan Singh Phillaur, Animal Husbandry Minister Punjab while presiding over the first meeting of the State Advisory Committee of Animal Husbandry, Dairy Development and Fisheries.
            The Minister emphasized the need of developing Poultry ,piggery and fisheries  besides dairy development, with a view to improving economic prosperity and nutritional standards of the people of Punjab. The government would also extend training facilities to the farmers for piggery and production of improved exotic breed piglets for supply to pig farmers for rearing.
            Quoting statistics, the minister said that as per the latest livestock census carried out in the year 2007, there were 17.61 lac cows and 50.04 lac buffaloes in the state. Out of this the breed able cows and buffaloes were 10.31lac and 29.08 lac respectively. Punjab was the major milk producing state in the country with an annual milk production of 94.23 lac tones during the year 2010-11. It contributes about 9%   of the total milk production of the country though it has less than 2% of total cattle and buffalo population of the country. Per capita availability of milk in Punjab was 931 grams which was the highest in the country, said Mr. Phillaur.
            Referring to the import of superior quality germ plasm, the Minister said that superior quality germ plasm from best bulls of exotic origin with daughter yield of more than 12000 litres per lactation would be imported for giving fillip to breed improvement programme. This would result in increasing milk production to the level of 30 ltrs. per day in cross bred animals. Besides, high genetic sexed semen would also be imported for the production of female calves for increasing milk production.       For the development of fish farming in the state, the Minister said that there were 6300 ponds developed by the village panchayats besides 2500 private fish farms in the state. The Punjab government would encourage fish farming on scientific and technical lines. About 11,287 hectare area of Punjab was under fish farming, said Mr. Phillaur and about 50,000 youth have been engaged in direct or indirect employment in Punjab . The Government has also imparted special training to the youth interested in fish cultivation.
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WORLD AIDS DAY OBSERVES ON  DECEMBER 1ST
PUNJAB ACHIEVING GOAL GETTING TO ZERO - ZERO NEW HIV INFECTIONS, ZERO DISCRIMINATION AND ZERO AIDS RELATED DEATHS
Chandigarh November 29:
World AIDS Day is being observed on 1st December every year throughout the world. This year the theme of the World AIDS Day is – “Getting to Zero - Zero New HIV Infections, Zero Discrimination and Zero AIDS Related Deaths”. Disclosing this here today Health & Family Welfare Minsiter Punjab Mr. Madan Mohan Mittal said that getting to zero campaign would run till 2015.  Global leaders have pledged to work towards Universal access to HIV and AIDS treatment, prevention and care, recognizing these as fundamental human rights.
Mr. Mittal further said that as per global estimates, a total of 34 million people were living with HIV. In 2011, around 2.5 million new HIV cases have been detected globally out of which 50% cases were of people from 15-24 years of age group. 1.7 million people died of AIDS related illness in 2011. As per the HIV estimations 2010-11, India is estimated to have 23.9 lakh people infected with HIV at an estimated adult prevalence of 0.31%. Adult HIV prevalence among men is 0.36%, while among women, it is it is 0.25%.
The Minister further said that 12 Opioid Substitution Therapy (OST) Centres have been setup in 12 districts of the state under collaborative model of service delivery. The service has been initiated for the first time in the country in which the OST is being provided through Public Health system. After the successful implementation of the model in the state, it has been replicated all across country by National AIDS Control Organisation, Govt. of India.  At present around 2000 Injecting Drug Users (IDUs) are being provided OST under the program. Five more OST units will be made functional by March, 2013 in Mansa, Pathankot, Patti, Nakodar and Nawanshahr.
                        Prevention remains the mainstay of HIV intervention under National AIDS Control Program. Punjab State AIDS Control Society has initiated an up scaled HIV prevention and treatment services in accordance with National AIDS Control Program guidelines in the past 6 years.
         
Mr. Mittal stated that the focus of IEC activities is on promoting safe behaviours, reduction of stigma and discrimination and demand generation for HIV/AIDS services. The program includes IEC using outdoor mid media and mass media (print & electronic media), educational programs among school and college students on HIV/AIDS related issues. Similarly out of school youth are also being covered through Red Ribbon clubs and Youth Development centres. 4500 schools are being covered under Adolescent Education Programme. Red Ribbon Express (RRE) is visiting 8 districts of states from 15th December 2012 to 1st January 2013.
The estimated number of People Living with HIV/AIDS (PLHA) in the state of Punjab is 56,928 with adult HIV prevalence of 0.32%. Adult HIV prevalence in the state (0.32%) is marginally higher as compared to National Adult HIV prevalence of 0.31%.  HIV Positive cases detected in Integrated Counseling and Testing Centres (ICTCs) are 33709. 15644 cases have been put on Anti Retroviral Treatment (ART) in the State.
    The Punjab State AIDS Control Society have released grant to all the districts of Punjab with the instructions to observe this day in order to disseminate the theme of World AIDS Day so that new infection in the State of Punjab could be stopped and care and support could be provided to the people living with HIV/AIDS without any discrimination.
To prevent this disease, the minister appeals to all citizens of Punjab to join hands with the state and work for achieving goal of “Getting to Zero - Zero New HIV Infections, Zero Discrimination and Zero AIDS Related Deaths”.
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Six IPS OFFICERS TRANSFERRED
Chandigarh, November,29:
          The Punjab Government today transferred six IPS officers  in the state with immediate effect.  
          Disclosing this here today a spokesman of the Punjab Government said that Mr. Dinkar Gupta, IPS posted as ADGP/Security has also been give the additional charge of Law & Order, reliving Mr. S.K. Sharma from this additional charge of Law & Order.
         Mr. Kuldeep Singh has been posted as IG/Community Policing & Training; Mr. R.P.S Brar has been posted as IG/Moderninsation vice Mr. Kuldeep Singh IPS.
        Mr. B.Chander Sekhar has been posted as IG/Vigilance. Mr. Harpreet Singh Sidhu has been posted as IG/Crime. Mr. Kaustubh Sharma has been posted as DCP/Amritsar.

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POLITICIANS SHOULD PLAY CONSTRUCTIVE ROLE IN LAW MAKING: ATWAL

·       DELIVERED LECTURE IN UTTRAKHAND ASSEMBLY ON THE TOPIC OF ‘‘PROCESSES OF LEGISLATION IN PARLIAMENT AND STATE ASSEMBLIES’’

CHANDIGARH, NOVEMBER 29:
Mr. Charanjit Singh Atwal, Speaker, Punjab Legislative Assembly exhorted the politicians to play constructive role in Parliament and State Legislative Assemblies to formulate laws. Mr. Atwal was speaking in Uttrakhand Legislative Assembly during an orientation program for the members of assembly.
Speaking on the topic of “Processes of legislation in the Parliament and State Assemblies, Mr. Atwal said that it was a matter of concern that the legislation work in the parliament and assemblies was decreasing day by day. He said that the politicians are duty bound to maintain the decorum in parliament and assemblies to preserve the sacredness of these supreme legislation making bodies.
The program was organized by Bureau of Parliamentarian Studies. During the function, Dr. Aziz Qureshi, Governor of Uttrakhand, Mr. Vijay Bahuguna, Chief Minister, Mr. Gobind Singh Kunjwal, Speaker and Mrs. Indra Hirdesh, Minister for Parliamentary affairs were also present.
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3rd World Cup Kabaddi Punjab-2012
TEAMS FROM IRAN, KENYA AND NEW ZEALAND ARRIVED, 8 MORE TO REPORT TODAY

• Final schedule of WCKP-2012 released

Chandigarh, November 29: The participating teams started arriving for 3rd World Cup Kabaddi Punjab -2012 being organized from December 1 to 15 at 13 different venues of the state with the landing of Iran, Kenya and New Zealand teams and 8 more teams namely Denmark, Norway, Scotland, England ( Men & Women ), Italy and Afghanistan are on the way and will report by tomorrow.
Disclosing this here today a spokesman of State Sports department said that meanwhile final schedule of the matches has been released.

SCHEDULE

SCHEDULE OF 3RD WORLD CUP KABADDI-2012

Pool A & B teams in Men section will be stationed at Bathinda.                                                   Women teams of A & B pool will be stationed at Ludhiana.
Pool C& D teams in Men section will be stationed at Jalandhar.

3rd WORLD CUP KABADDI, PUNJAB-2012
MATCHES SCHEDULE - LEAGUE STAGE

01.12.2012                     OPENING CEREMONY AT BATHINDA

Contd……………….2

-2-

Note:- (1)         All the matches both in Men & Women section will be played on league-cum- knock out basis. In Men Section top one team of each  pool will qualify for Semi Finals (Knock out   stage) and in Women Section top 2 teams of each pool will qualify for Semi Finals.
(2)        Teams shall report to the officials one  hour before the start of the match.
(3)        Matches will be played as per latest rules of the game.
(4)        Schedule can be changed due to reasons beyond the control of the organizers.

ORGANISING SECRETARY

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SUKHBIR TO KICK START 10 STOREY WONDER BUILDING TO BE COMPLETED IN 48 HOURS

·         FIRST OF ITS OWN KIND OF BUILDING VENTURE IN INDIA

Chandigarh November, 28: The Deputy Chief Minister Punjab S. Sukhbir Singh Badal will lay the foundation stone of 10-storey building INSTACON to be constructed in 48 hours on November 29 in the Industrial Phase I of SAS Nagar(Mohali).
          While referring about the salient features of 10 storey building the brain behind the project, S. Harpal Singh maintained that this is the first building of its kind in the country first of its kind in India, is unique in many ways. He further said that all the components were manufactured in the factory, pre-fitted with floors, water supply, wirings, sanitation, air conditioning ducts and everything else. These are then shifted in state-of-the-art transporting vehicles to the actual site for installation.
          S. Harpal Singh added that “The ultra fast mechanism helps save energy in quantums in comparison to traditional construction methods. One can get revenues from the investment within days. Though the cost is almost the same as incurred using conventional techniques, there is lot of gain in saving man-days of work and terms of manpower days and overcoming inflationary increases”.
          He maintained that this technology as it unfolded today has vast potential to totally revolutionize the much-needed Infrastructure Technology in the country by rapidly speeding up the construction of Commercial towers, Luxury hotels, High-rise buildings, Hospitals, Educational institutions, Universities and Retail outlets.

BADAL MOURNS SAD DEMISE OF NOTED URDU WRITER SHARAVAN KUMAR

SUKHBIR AND MAJITHIA ALSO CONDOLE THE SAD DEMISE OF SHARAVAN KUMAR 

Chandigarh, November 28
Punjab Chief Minister Mr Parkash Singh Badal today expressed profound grief and sorrow over the sad demise of noted Urdu litterateur and an eminent story writer Mr Sharavan Kumar Verma (85) who passed away at Amritsar this morning after a prolonged illness. He is survived by wife and two daughters. 
In a condolence message, the Chief Minister recalled the outstanding literary services rendered by Mr Verma and the pivotal role played by him in fostering goodwill, harmony and peace in the Indian sub continent as he was widely admired for his literary skills both in India and Pakistan. He said that in the death of Mr Verma a void has been created in the literary circle which was difficult to be filled in near future. Mr Badal hoped that his masterly skills would ever act as a source of inspiration for the budding Urdu writers.
Meanwhile Deputy Chief Minister Punjab Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal and Information & Public Relations Minister Mr. Bikram Singh Majithia have also condoled the death of Mr. Sharavan Kumar Verma.
Sharing his heartfelt sympathies with the members of the bereaved family, the Chief Minister prayed to the Almighty to grant eternal peace to the departed soul and give courage to bear them this irreparable loss.
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BADAL APPROVES TO ENHANCE REFRESHMENT ALLOWANCE FOR NCC CADETS AT AN ANNUAL COST OF RS. 3 CRORE

CHANDIGARH NOVEMBER 28:

       Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today approved to enhance the refreshment allowance for NCC Cadets from Rs. 6 to Rs. 20 per cadet involving an additional annual expenditure of about Rs 3 crore.
       A decision to this effect was taken by the Chief Minister during a high level meeting with a delegation of senior officers of NCC, headed by ADG NCC Maj. Gen. PS Mander here at his residence late last evening. Mr. Badal directed the concerned department to complete all the modalities for early implementation of the decision. He further informed that state government had also enhanced Messing allowance of Associate NCC Officers (ANOs) who undergo training at various training academies from Rs. 65 to Rs. 213.
The Chief Minister also directed the department to dedicate the powers to the NCC units for the rationalization of the staff at the local level as per their convenience.
       Considering all other demands related to the revision of rates of various allowances as approved by the Ministry of Defence Government of India, Mr. Badal assured them that state government would also implement all other revisions in respect of ANOs and NCC Cadets. He also informed that state had already allotted Rs. 1.18 crore for the recurring expenditure of NCC training academies Ropar and Malout which would be released soon. He hoped that these NCC training academies would prove to be a milestone in the history of NCC and act as a catalyst to imbibe a spirit of bravery and patriotism amongst the young cadets.    
       Expressing gratitude the ADG NCC Maj. Gen. PS Mander thanked Mr. Badal for the initiatives of the state government to promote NCC in the state in a big way through establishing these new NCC training centers, besides considering their all demands sympathetically. He said that till date 18 camps had been conducted and 10,000 cadets had utilized the facilities at these centres, including one National level camp conducted at Malaut.
       Prominent amongst those who were present in the meeting included Special Principal Secretary to the Chief Minister Mr. KJS Cheema, Secretary Education Ms. Ravneet Kaur, besides the other members of the NCC delegation DDG NCC Brigadier SJ Singh and Group Commander (Lud.) Brigadier SS Gill.
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DEPUTY CHIEF MINISTER ORDERS ENQUIRY INTO ISSUANCE OF ARMED LICENCE AND PASSPORT VERIFICATION REPORT OF NAMDHARI

PRINCIPAL SECRETARY (HOME) TO SUBMIT ENQUIRY WITHIN A FORTNIGHT

Chandigarh, November 28-
Taking cognizance of media reports regarding the issuance of armed license and verification for issuance of passport to the Sukhdev Singh Namdhari, an accussed in the murder of Chadha brothers, the Punjab Deputy Chief Minister Mr Sukhbir Singh Badal, who also holds the portfolio of Home affairs, has ordered an enquiry to be conducted by the Principal Secretary (Home) Mr DS Bains to probe into the entire matter to get at the bottom of this case.
Disclosing this here today a spokesperson of the Chief Minister’s Office said that Deputy Chief Minister has asked the Principal Secretary Home to submit the enquiry report positively within a fortnight so as to prevent the issuance of armed licenses and fake verifications of the unscrupulous and anti-social elements. He also directed the Principal Secretary (Home) to also suggest concrete measures to check the reoccurrence of such lapses on the part of state administration.

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BADAL SEEKS PERSONAL INTERVENTION OF JHARKHAND CM TO ENSURE UNINTERRUPTED COAL SUPPLY TO PUNJAB TO AVERT CLOSURE OF THERMAL POWER PLANTS
·        ASKS MUNDA FOR EARLY RESOLUTION ONGOING POLITICAL IMBROGLIO
 Chandigarh, November 28-
Apprehending critical power situation emerging out of stoppage of coal supply from Jharkhand to the state, the Punjab Chief Minister Mr Parkash Singh Badal today urged his Jharkhand counterpart Mr Arjun Munda seeking his personal intervention to immediately resume the coal supply by resolving the deadlock due to ongoing political agitation at the earliest to avert the closure of thermal power plants in the state.
In a letter to the Jharkhand Chief Minister, Mr Badal asked him to use his good offices to resolve the issue at the earliest to pave a way for the smooth and uninterrupted supply of coal to Punjab, which had been currently halted due to ongoing political agitation, so that the power scenario which has been adversely hit due to non supply of coal could not be further allowed to deteriorate.
It may be recalled that Pachwara (Central) coal block in Pakkur district of State of Jharkhand allotted to PSEB (now PSPCL) in the year 2002 has been developed and was being operated by Mls Panem Coal Mines Ltd., a joint venture company of PSEB and Mls EMTA Coal Limited.
Mr Badal apprised the Jharkhand Chief Minister that the captive coal block met substantial part of requirement of coal for thermal power stations of Punjab adding that on an average, PSPCL thermal power stations have been receiving 5-6 coal rakes daily but the supplies have been disrupted recently due to local agitation. He mentioned Mls Panem Coal Mines Ltd. have reported that from November 16 this, former Chief Minister of Jharkhand Mr Babulal Marandi alongwith former Deputy Chief Minister Mr Stephen Marandi and their supporters have started a Dharna near the coal mine blocking the approach road to the mine resulting in total disruption of transportation from mines to the railway siding at Pakkur. From the night of November 20, another Dharna has been organized by their associates at the Pakkur railway siding resulting in discontinuation of dispatch of coal from the railway siding.
The Chief Minister said that as the approach road to the mines was blocked, diesel could not be transported to the mine and the mining operations have been reported to have come to standstill. He further said that Mls Panem have informed that the project affected people and the local villagers were extremely happy and satisfied with the kind of support both economically and socially, they were receiving from the company through the rehabilitation package. Mr Badal said it appeared that Mr Marandi has been misinformed as the rehabilitation package worked out by the company and approved by .the State and Central Government has been rated satisfactory by a committee set up by the Government of India (GoI) to examine and monitor the working conditions of the mines.
The Chief Minister pointed out that efforts made by Mls Panem and the local administration to clear the misunderstanding of Mr Babulal Marandi have not been successful till now.  
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KENYA KEEN TO REPLICATE PUNJAB’S TRANSPORT COMPUTERISATION MODEL

• APPRECIATES REFORMS IN THE TRANSPORT SECTOR
• TEAM TO VISIT PUNJAB TO STUDY THE MODEL

CHANDIGARH, NOVEMBER 28: The Governance Reforms initiated by Punjab Deputy Chief Minister Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal got a major thumbs up from Ministry of Transport of Kenya as it sought to replicate computerization of Transport Department of Punjab in Kenya.

          In a communiqué to Secretary Transport, Punjab, Mr. Francis Meja, Registrar of Motor Vehicles, sought the assistance of Punjab Government and its agencies for automating their road transport sector. He said that he has communicated that Kenyan Government would like to replicate the Punjab system for online application of road sector documents such as driving licenses and motor vehicle registration certificates. They have also expressed desire to replicate the centralized data of Transport Sector. They have also expressed interest in  Punjab’s experiment of CCTV Camera to improve traffic regulation. The Kenya Government has also sought assistance of Punjab Transport Department in smart driver licenses and Motor Vehicle Number Plates.

          Appreciating the online model of Punjab Transport Department, the Kenya Government has also shown desire to replicate the model being adopted by Punjab for shared data both through internet and mobile technologies.

          Mr. Meja has communicated that Kenya would like to send a six representatives of Multi Agency Committee constituted by them to implement this project. The Kenyan delegation is expected to visit next week and transport department is coordinating their arrangements.
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23 NATIONS TO VIE FOR Rs 4.54 CRORE PRIZE MONEY OF 3RD WCKP-2012

• AKSHAY TO ENTHRALL AUDIENCE IN THE OPENING CEREMONY AT BATHINDA
• INTERNATIONAL OLYMPIC ASSOCIATION CONGRATULATES SUKHBIR FOR HOSTING WORLD CUP KABADDI
• CHIEF MINISTER OF PAK PUNJAB TO BE CHIEF GUEST IN THE CLOSING CEREMONY
• CANADIAN SPORTS MINISTER, LANKAN CM, AFGHANISTAN MP TO GRACE THE GAMES
• PRIZE MONEY FOR WOMEN KABADDI MORE THAN DOUBLED

Chandigarh November 27: The Punjab is all set to kick start sports extravaganza with the inauguration of 3rd World Cup Kabaddi, in which 23 nations from all six continents would vie for record prize money of Rs. 4.54 crore.
       Disclosing this here today Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal, Deputy Chief Minister, Punjab, who has single handedly taken the traditional game of Kabaddi to the World Level informed that it was gratifying to see that 16 countries from all six continents, including 8 countries in which no player from Indian origin was there, would participate in the 3rd edition of World Cup Kabaddi. He said that countries including Afghanistan, Argentina, Canada, Denmark, England, Iran, Italy, Kenya, New Zealand, Norway, Pakistan, Scotland, Sierra Leone, Sri Lanka, USA including India in Men Section and Canada, Denmark, England, Malaysia, Turkmenistan, USA and India in Women Section are in the fray for the fabulous prize money Pearls 3rd World Cup Kabaddi, Punjab-2012 from December 1 to 15. Mr. Badal said that Punjab Sports Department was fully geared up to host the mega event and Kabaddi would enthrall the audience at Bathinda, Patiala, Hoshiarpur, Amritsar, Doda (Mukatsar), Sangrur, Roopnagar, Chohla Sahib (Tarntaran), Fazilka, Gurdaspur, Mansa, Jalandhar and Ludhiana.
Mr. Badal said that the Opening Ceremony of the event will be held at Bathinda on 1st December, 2012 and S. Parkash Singh Badal, Hon’ble Chief Minister Punjab has very kindly consented to be the Chief Guest. On the Closing Ceremony and Men Final Miyan Mohammad Shahbaz Sharif Hon’ble Chief Minister, Punjab (Pakistan) would be the Chief Guest and give away prizes to the winners. The Semi Finals of the tournament will be held at Bathinda on 12th November, 2012. The losers of Semi Finals would vie for third and fourth place and Women Finals will be held at Jalandhar on 13.12.2012.
       The Deputy Chief Minister said that Bollywood Star Akshay Kumar would be the star attraction of the opening ceremony and people of Punjab should expect a stunning surprise in the closing ceremony to be held in Ludhiana. He said that winners Men Team get Rs. 2.00 crore; runners-up Rs 1.00 crore, third place holders Rs 51.00 lacs.Mr. Badal said that First position holder Women Team gets 51.00 lac against 25 lac given last year. Second and Third  get Rs 31.00 and 21.00 lac respectively. Teams from far away places like Argentina, Canada, USA etc. get Rs 15.00 lac or air fair.  All other teams get a Guarantee Money of Rs 10.00 lac.
       Reiterating his resolve to make Kabaddi drug free, Mr. Badal said that he has issued directions to ensure that third world cup kabaddi should be totally dope free tournament and the services of NADA has been requisitioned to conduct regular tests on the players and players failing the dope test would be barred for two years besides seizing their prize money or participation money.
       Releasing the mascot of 3rd World Cup Kabaddi, ‘JAANBAAZ’, Mr. Badal said that this mascot symbolizes the motto of “Aim High, Fly High, Go For Sports and Fight Drugs”. Mr. Badal said that he was happy that with the popularization of Kabaddi, village youth have again started concentrating on this game and making it their profession.
       Mr. Badal said that Denmark has already given official recognition to Circle Kabaddi and they are sending their team to World Cup. He said that Denmark has already offered to host 4th World Cup Kabaddi at Denmark. He said that Director Sports, International Olympic Association has sent a communiqué to me congratulating us for popularizing this traditional game and wishing good luck on behalf of IOA. Mr. Badal said that he was happy that Kabaddi was getting international recognition and time is not far off, when it would be included in Asian Games and Olympics.
Mr. Badal said that teams of men section have been divided in four pools. He said that in pool A would consist of India, England, Afghanistan and Denmark while Canada, New Zealand, Sri Lanka and Norway would be in pool B, Pool C would consist of Pakistan, Sierra Leone, Scotland and Italy whereas Pool D would contain Argentina, Iran, Kenya and USA. He said that there would be two pools in women category, India, Canada and Denmark would be in Pool A while the teams of England, Turkmenistan, USA and Malaysia are in pool B.
Giving details of matches to be played between teams at different stadiums, Mr. Badal said that on December 2 matches of men teams would be played at Patiala from 6:30pm onwards between England Vs Denmark, New Zealand Vs Norway and India Vs Afghanistan, On December 3 matches would be held at Hoshiarpur from 1pm onwards between Argentina Vs Iran, Scotland Vs Italy and Pakistan Vs Sierra Leone, on December 4 matches would be played at Amritsar from 6:30pm between Argentina Vs USA, Iran Vs Kenya and Pakistan Vs Scotland, on December 5 Doda (Mukatsar) would witness the matches from 1pm onwards between Afghanistan Vs Denmark, Canada Vs Denmark (Women), Sri Lanka Vs Norway, on December 6 Sangrur would witness the matches from 12:30pm between England Vs Afghanistan, India Vs Denmark (Women), Turkmenistan Vs USA (Women), Canada Vs Sri Lanka, on December 7 the matches would be played at Roop Nagar from 1pm between Argentina Vs Kenya, USA Vs Malaysia (Women) and Iran Vs USA, on December 8 the matches would be played at Chohla Sahib (Tarn Taran) from 1pm between Sierra Leone Vs Scotland, England Vs USA (Women), Pakistan Vs Italy, December 9 would be witnessed the matches at M.R. Government College Stadium, Fazilka from 12:30pm between Canada  Vs New Zealand, England Vs Malaysia (Women), India Vs Canada (Women) and India Vs England, on December 10 matches would be played at Gurdaspur from 6:30pm onwards between Sierra Leone Vs Italy, England Vs Turkmenistan (Women), Kenya Vs USA and December 11 would witness the matches from 12:30pm between the teams Canada Vs Norway, New Zealand Vs Sri Lanka, Turkmenistan Vs Malaysia (Women) and India Vs Denmark.  The semi finals between winners of Pool-A Vs winner of Pool-D (I) would be played at Bathinda on December 12 from 6:30pm followed by II semi final between winner of pool-B Vs winner of pool-C and winner of Pool-A Vs runners of Pool-B (Women-I) and winner of Pool-B Vs runner of Pool-A (Women-II).
       The Deputy Chief Minister said that the competitions for 3rd and 4th position of men category would be held at Jalandhar on December 13 from 6:30pm onwards between loser of I Vs loser of II followed by competitions of women category for 3rd and 4th position between Loser of I Vs Loser of II, while the Final of Women category would also be played on the same day at 8:30 pm.
Mr. Badal said that only final of men category would be played on December 15 on the closing ceremony of 3rd World Cup Kabaddi at Ludhiana . He said that all the matches in both categories would be played on league-cum-knock out basis. He said that in men category top one team of each pool will qualify for the semis. PTC will telecast live Pearls 3rdWCKP-2012 matches, opening and closing ceremonies.
Punjab Chief Minister S. Parkash Singh Badal is Chief Patron while Deputy Chief Minister S. Sukhbir Singh Badal is Chairman, S. Balwinder Singh Bhundar, Hon’ble Member Parliament and Sh. Sikander Singh Maluka, Hon’ble Education Minister Punjab are Senior Vice Chairmen, S. Bikram Singh Majithia Hon’ble Revenue, Rehabilitation, Information and Public Relation Minister, Sh. Pawan Kumar Teenu, Hon’ble Chief Parliamentary Secretary and S. Pargat Singh are the Vice Chairmen and Sh. Shivdular Singh Dhillon, PCS, Director Sports is the Organising Secretary.
Sh. Bikram Singh Majithia, Sr. Vice Chairman of the Organizing Committee said that the Punjab Government is very keen to promote sports in a big way and properly chanalize the youth power. In this direction, a new result-oriented Sports Policy has been implemented in the state. Under the able guidance of Hon’ble Chief Minister Punjab S. Parkash Singh Badal, the State Government has provided state-of-the-art-sports infrastructure in the state at a cost of more than 150.00 crores. 4 new Hockey Stadiums at Bathinda, Mohali, Faridkot and Sports School, Ghudda (Bathinda) have been developed at a cost of Rs 75.00 crore. 3 Hockey Stadiums namely Ludhiana, Jalandhar and Amritsar have been renovated at a cost of Rs 25.00 crore. 7 New Multipurpose Stadiums namely Bathinda, Mansa, Sangrur, Jalandhar, Hoshiarpur, Gurdaspur and Amritsar have been constructed at a cost of Rs 50.00 crore. A new Synthetic Athletic Track has been laid at Sports School Ghudda (Bathinda) The Guru Nanak Stadium Ludhiana has also been updated at a cost of Rs 3.00 crore. One International Sports Hostel at Burlton Park, Jalandhar has been developed at a cost of Rs 2.5 crore.
Explaining that the rural masses are passionate about kabaddi and acknowledging the popularity of the game, Mr. Majithia said that the state Government has included this game in the Sports Gradation Policy, Maharaja Ranjit Singh Award Policy and Cash Award Policy.
Mr. Majithia and Mr. Maluka further said that colourful Opening and Closing Ceremonies have been planned and this task of cultural programme has been entrusted to an acclaimed event management company named Wizcraft International Entertainment Pvt. Ltd, Mumbai.
Sh. P.S. Aujla, IAS, Secretary Sports and Executive Member Organizing Committee said that all efforts have been made to make this event drug free. An Anti Dope Committee has been formed which will be responsible to manage Pre and Post World Cup Kabaddi Anti Doping Affairs and submit a report to Organizing Committee on conclusion of the programme. He further informed that to facilitate the public, the matches of the event have been scattered to be conducted over 13 places through out the state. The semi-finals, finals, Opening and Closing Ceremonies and matches at Bathinda, Jalandhar, Gurdaspur, Amritsar, Patiala and Ludhiana would be conducted under flood lights and telecast live by PTC. The matches at other venues would also be telecast live by this channel.
He also disclosed that, to look after the comfort and convenience of all participating teams, the Punjab Sports Department has appointed 2 liaison officers with the each team. He further added that eminent punjabi folk singers, comedians and artists would regale the audience at all the venues of this grand event.
“We will set high standards in conducting the mega event. Efforts have been made to provide all comforts to the participating teams and officials accompanying” said Mr. Aujla.
Regarding the formation of Indian teams, a Selection Committee, under the Chairmanship of International Kabaddi player Sh. Shiv Dev Singh has been formed which has selected 51 Men and 31 Women probables for the coaching camps going on at Bathinda and Ludhiana, respectively. Prior to this, the Selection Committee conducted Selection Trails for Men on 25.09.2012 and Women at Ludhiana on 19.11.2012.

TRANSPORT DEPARTMENT TO START E-CHALLANING OF VEHICLES FROM NEXT MONTH-SUKHBIR

• NO DISCRETION ON DTO TO IMPOSE FINE-TO BE AUTOMATICALLY CALCULATED BY SERVER
• TRANSPORT DEAPRTMENT TO ADD 500 MORE BUSES
• TARGETS REVENUE OF Rs.1100 CRORE IN CURRENT FISCAL

CHANDIGARH, NOVEMBER 27: Punjab is all set to become first state in the country in which transport department would be e-challaning the vehicles for various compoundable offences from next month.

            Accompanied by Mr. Ajit Singh Kohar, Transport Minister, Deputy Chief Minister Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal today reviewed the performance of Transport Department and saw the new model of e-challaning being introduce by the department next month. Under the new policy each DTO would have handheld computerized device and while challaning the vehicle DTO would enter the registration no of vehicle and offence committed by it. The device that is connected to center server of Transport Department would automatically calculate the fine and give the option to the driver to pay the challan money through credit or debit card on the spot or by cash. Each day a computerized summary of each official would be generated and challan money would be deposited same day in the treasury.

            Appreciating the system, Mr. Badal said that while introducing an element of transparency and convenience for the citizens, the most important aspect of this system was doing away with discretion of imposing fine that breed corruption.

            Mr. Kohar informed that Transport Department is going to add 500 new buses, 300 in Punbus and 200 in PRTC.

            Asking Transport Department to make every bus a profit center, Mr. Badal said that each bus should be allotted a specific number and its profit and loss account, income, expenditure, maintenance should be calculated individually and chronic loss making buses should be identified and suitable corrective actions be taken.

            Seeking a monthly report of performance of every transport depot, Mr. Badal said that each depot manager be given two months to improve the working of his depot otherwise be shunted out. He said that there was no scope for lethargy and inefficiency in the department and department has to run efficiently as a corporate body.

Stressing the need for introducing e-ticketing in hundred percent buses, Mr. Badal said that leakage of revenue has to be strictly checked with iron hand. Expressing concern over reports of automobile dealers charging extra money from consumers for issuing Registration Certificates of vehicles, Mr. Badal asked all DTOs to conduct surprise checks and launch a drive against in the media informing public that they don’t have to pay a single penny extra to the auto dealers for RCs.

            Prominent amongst those were present in the meeting included Mr. Manvesh Singh Sidhu, Mr. Ajay Kumar Mahajan (both Special Principal Secretaries to Dy CM), Mr. Mandeep Singh, Secretary Transport and all General Managers and DTOs of the state.

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BADAL EXHORTS PREZ TO IMPRESS UPON GOI TO ENSURE PRICE SUPPORT MARKETING MECHANISM WITH VALUE ADDITION OF MAIZE TO ENCOURAGE CROP DIVERSIFICATION IN STATE
·        SEEKS LIBERAL FINANCIAL GRANT FOR PAU TO INTENSIFY R&D
·        CALLS FOR LIBERAL NORMS TO BOOST TRADE OF MAIZE AND OTHER AGRO PRODUCTS THROUGH ICP
·        GUV FOR ADOPTING SUSTAINABLE METHODS OF AGRICULTURE TO MEET THEIMMEDIATE, MID TERM AND DISTANT CHALLENGES
·        ASKS UNIVERSITIES AND NATIONAL LABORATORIES TO UNDERTAKE EXTENSION SERVICES MORE VIGOROUSLY
Ludhiana, November 27-
Punjab Chief Minister Mr Parkash Singh Badal today called upon the President of India to advice the Government of India (GoI) to ensure proper price support mechanism coupled with value addition of Maize as an alternative crop towards its crop diversification program in the state.
In his address on the Golden jubilee celebrations of the prestigious Punjab Agriculture University, the Chief Minister urged the Mr Mukherjee, who was here to preside over the International Conference on Sustainable Agriculture for Food and Livelihood security organised by Punjab Agriculture University (PAU) as a part of its Golden Jubilee celebrations, to use his good offices to impress upon the Centre to get sanctioned food processing industry in the state for value addition of Maize besides ensuring remunerative MSP to encourage the farmers to go for Maize cultivation in a big way on one hand and bring the beleaguered peasantry out of the rut of conventional agriculture from wheat-paddy cycle.
 Appreciating the splendid research work done by PAU’s scientists in developing High Yielding Varity (HYV) seeds aimed at achieving buffer stock of food grains thereby making our country self reliant in food production, he requested the President to prevail upon the GoI to sanction liberal financial grant to the PAU, the mother of Green Revolution, to enable it to carry forward its varied research programs relentlessly in the field of Agriculture especially with a focus on the second push towards Green Revolution in the form of diversification of agriculture. Highlighting Punjab farmer’s superb contribution to the national glory and food security, the Chief Minister said that they initiated the process of country’s self-dependence in food with Green Revolution in 1960s. He further said that Punjab has been contributing around 38 to 75% of wheat and 25 to 45% of rice to the national food kitty and it has been achieved at a huge price to the farmers of the state. Mr Badal lamented that the farmers of the state had sacrificed their only natural assets land fertility and water in national interest due to which the state is now facing acute agriculture crisis.
The Chief Minister further said that agriculture was no longer a remunerative profession due to which the agrarian economy of the state now needs to be bailed out of the crisis of slow growth, declining farm income and dwindling resources. Justifying the rationale behind the need for crop diversification Mr Badal pointed that since the Punjab farmers practiced intensive agriculture with Wheat and paddy under nearly 80% of the cropped area, therefore it was the need of hour to shift area under paddy to Maize and other less water consuming crops. These steps would not only stop over exploitation of the water and soil, the only resources of farmers of the state but also improve their economic lot in the near future.
Pleading that agricultural exports could boost crop diversification, the Chief Minister urged Mr Mukherjee to advice the GoI to facilitate free trade through the Attari Integrated check Post. Mr Badal rued that all the farmers in the state were under heavy debt adding that economic distress in agriculture has led to farmers’ suicides in the state. However he said that it was unfortunate that Punjab did not benefit much from the Central Debt Waiver package announced by the GoI which had led to many small and marginal farmers leaving agriculture thereby reducing the number of farmers in the state from 5 lakh to 3 lakh.
In his address the Punjab Governor Mr Shivraj V Patil emphasised the need of adopting sustainable methods of agriculture so as to meet the immediate, mid term and distant challenges besides meeting the challenge to fulfil the food requirements of the people. He said that it was unfortunate that the universities and national laboratories undertaking the research work in field of agriculture along with the farmers were focusing on meeting the short term challenges but thrust needs to be laid on meeting the challenges of future. Mr Patil said that it was the need of the hour that the water which was depleting very rapidly must be conserved and used in an optimum manner which was not harmful for the future generation in any way.
Lauding the proactive role of PAU in the extensive R&D in the field of the agriculture, the Governor said that it was on the record that the university was the synonym of the ‘Green Revolution’ which ushered in an era of unprecedented development and prosperity in the state. He said that the enormous contribution of PAU in making the country in general and Punjab in particular self reliant in the food production could never be ignored. Strongly pleading the need to intensify research in the field of agriculture, Mr Patil said that the universities and national laboratories should undertake extension services more vigorously to benefit the farmers for adoption of the best farm practices. He sought more funds for universities and research institutes to promote R&D facilities on mass scale in the larger interests of the farmers.
The Governor hoped that the international conference of great importance would play a pivotal role in giving new dimensions to the agriculture by motivating the farmers to embrace the latest farm technologies to increase their yield both qualitatively as well as quantitatively. Mr Patil underlined the need to transfer old knowledge and create new knowledge and impart it to the coming generations.
            Prominent amongst other present on occasion included Secretary to the Chief Minister Mr. SK Sandhu, Special Principal Secretary to the Chief Minister Mr. KJS Cheema, Chairman Punjab State Farmer’s Commission Dr GS Kalkat and VC PAU Mr. BS Dhillon.
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PUNJAB GOVERNOR FOR MAKING SOLAR ENERGY AS A MASS MOVEMENT
·        EMPHASIZES ON DECENTRALIZATION OF SOLAR ENERGY GENERATING PROCESS
·        BADAL ENVISIONS SOLAR ENERGY AS A VIABLE ANSWER TO AUGMENT POWER GENERATION
·        INSTALLATION OF SOLAR ENERGY PANELS MANDATORY FOR PUBLIC AND PRIVATE BUILDINGS
·        NRSE-2012 POLICY WOULD GO A LONG WAY IN TRANSFORMING THE POWER SCENARIO IN THE STATE- MAJITHIA
Chandigarh, November 27-
            Emphasizing on the need to create awareness amongst the people for generating solar energy for domestic consumption, the Punjab Governor Mr. Shivraj V Patil asked the state government to make concerted efforts to decentralize the generation of Solar energy to meet the ever growing demand of power in the state.
            Presiding over a high level meeting to review the potential of solar energy in the state here at Punjab Raj Bhawan on Monday evening, the Punjab Governor said every household across the state should be encouraged to have Solar Voltaic Panels (SPV) on their rooftops to augment the energy generation in the state. He opined that solar energy should be made a mass movement to meet the power supply in domestic, agriculture and industrial sector besides the religious institutions and shrines especially the Gurudwaras. Mr. Patil underscored the need to woo the manufacturers of SPVs to set up their units in the state to ensure sufficient supply of these panels for tapping the unutilized potential of solar energy in far more meaningful and result oriented manner. 
            The Governor further said that solar energy could also be tapped with the installation of SVPs along with the banks of the canals as Punjab had an efficient canal network across the state. Explaining the rationale behind the decentralization of generation of Solar energy, Mr Patil said land in Punjab was very expensive and therefore Rajasthan and Gujarat model were not viable here. He mentioned the state government should make it mandatory for all the public as well as private buildings especially the upcoming housing clusters to have SVPs installed on them for the generation of solar energy. The Governor said that 40% energy could be saved from the conventional power by optimally utilizing the Solar energy.  “We must remember the energy saved was energy produced” he added.    
Appreciating the NRSE Policy-2012 framed by the state government, the Governor said it was deftly crafted to dispose of the biomass in an efficient manner by generating power. He said the energy generation from the paddy and wheat stubble was more suitable as there was an abundant stock of biomass besides this process of energy generation was also environmental friendly because the practice of burning this biomass resulted in heavy pollution causing health hazards.  Mr Patil pointed out in present context thermal as well as Hydel energy was comparatively much costlier as compared to the Solar one. He said that in future even the transport sector would also run on the Solar energy.  The Governor asked Mr Badal to send a high level delegation comprising officers of PEDA and experts in the field of Non-Conventional energy led by the Non Conventional and Renewable sourcesMinister to study the technology of Solar energy in Germany and China. Mr Patil assured the Chief Minister that he would soon take up the matter with Government of India (GoI) for giving special subsidy over and above the existing one to popularize the concept of solar energy amongst the people in the state
Taking part in deliberations the Punjab Chief Minister highly appreciated the concern of Mr Shivraj V Patil for convening this crucial meeting to deliberate upon the various dimensions to tap the optimum potential of solar energy in the state as an alternative to the conventional power generation.  He said the Solar energy was the only answer to make state self sufficient in the power sector in the near future because excessive dependence on Thermal energy in future could be adversely effected by the shortage of coal. Mr Badal impressed upon the Governor to also convene a meeting of the officers of PEDA besides senior officers of the state government with the renowned companies manufacturing SVPs to ensure its uninterrupted supply.
The Chief Minister also agreed to the proposal of Mr Patil to give subsidy on these panels to make them popular among the domestic consumers in a big way. He informed the Governor that the state government was already giving 70% subsidy on the Solar tanks used for Drip irrigations in the Orchids. Mr Badal apprised the Governor that the state government had already initiated steps to make solar energy mandatory in the public and private buildings especially in the houses constructed over an area of one Kanal and above land in the urban estates.  
Speaking on the occasion Non Conventional and Renewable sources Minister Mr Bikram Singh Majithia said that NRSE-2012 Policy would go a long way in transforming the power scenario in the state by generating enormous power. He said that the policy was aimed at maximizing and improving the share of new and renewable sources of energy to 10% of the total installed power capacity of the state by the year 2020 besides promoting renewable energy initiatives for meeting energy/lighting needs. Mr Majithia further said that the policy would also focus on creating conducive conditions to woo private sector investments in NRSE projects along with broader participation by public by giving a slew of incentives
The Minister told Mr Patil that as per the new policy focus would also be laid to generate nearly 1000 MW Power through Non Conventional and Renewable sources of energy in the state by year 2022 adding that the new policy would also be instrumental in bridging the gap between the demand and supply of Power besides ensuring quality power to the consumers at affordable rates.
Prominent amongst other present in the meeting included Chief Secretary Mr Rakesh Singh, Advisor UT Administration Mr KK Sharma, Principal Secretary to the Chief Minister Mr SK Sandhu, Principal Secretary to the Governor Mr MP Singh, Principal Secretary Science Technology and Environment Mr Karan Avtar Singh and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) PEDA Mr TPS Sidhu and Director PEDA Mr Balour Singh.

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NEW ZEALAND KEEN TO HAVE TRADE AND AGRICULTURE TIES WITH PUNJAB

·        NEW ZEALAND MINISTER OFFERS TO SET UP JOINT FARMS IN PUNJAB

·        SUKHBIR SEEKS NEW ZEALAND’S EXPERTISE IN MILK CHILLING AND PROCESSING SECTOR

CHANDIGARH, NOVEMBER 27:  The New Zealand today expressed keen desire to setup joint ventures in Punjab in various areas of Industry, Agriculture and milk processing sector to become partner in the progress of Punjab as New Zealand Minister for Primary Industries Mr. David Carter led a 22 member trade delegation to have interaction with Punjab Deputy Chief Minister Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal and Cabinet colleagues.

          Leading the delegation the New Zealand Minister said that Punjab and New Zealand share the common expertise in agriculture sector and New Zealand can coordinate with Punjab by offering it latest agriculture technology and techniques to prolong shelf life of agriculture products. He said that Punjab has set an example before whole world by feeding the population of 120 crore of country with geographical area of 1.5 percent of the country. He said that Punjabis have a credible contribution in the development of New Zealand and out of 4.4 million population of New Zealand over 1.2 lakh Indian pre-dominantly Punjabis are contributing in every sector of economy of New Zealand.

          Offering to setup ‘Joint Farms’ in Punjab, the New Zealand Minister said that these agriculture farms could be pilot projects to showcase the latest technology in agriculture sector. He said that the focus of New Zealand agriculture sector was on increasing productivity and profitability to make the sector self-sustaining. He said that New Zealand was passionate about experimenting with new technologies that can make it survive in the competitive market.

          Seeking the latest technology from New Zealand in milk chilling and milk processing sector, Mr. Badal said that Punjab has the second largest milk cooperative in the country that was operating with the most modern technology. He said that the cooperatives of New Zealand and Punjab can work collectively to setup joint ventures in such sectors and offer latest dairy products to the world market. The Punjab Deputy Chief Minister said that Punjab was also open to private dairy processing units of New Zealand setting up their ventures in Punjab.

          Mr. Anil Joshi, Industry and Trade Minister welcoming the delegation highlighted the state’s core strengths and congenial industry-friendly environment as well as the expeditious clearance regime. Mr. Sarwan Singh Phillaur, Animal Husbandry Minister also highlighted the enormous potential for setting up of Fish, Meat and Dairy based processing industries in Punjab.

The New Zealand delegation consisted of  Mr. Shari Mannan, Private Secretary, New Zealand., Mr. Chris Carson, Director Industrial Policy, New Zealand, Mrs. Jan Henderson, High Commissioner, New Zealand, Mr. Kanwaljeet Singh Bakshi, MP New Zealand, Mr. Richard White, Trade Commissioner of New Zealand, Mr. Gareth Pidgeon, Second Secretary, New Zealand, Mr. Mridu Vats, Policy Advisor, New Zealand, Mr. James McVitty, Mr. John Monaghan, Mr. Rose Verry, Mr. S. Kaushal, Mr. Sameer Handa, Mr. S. Gagneja, Patton Refrigeration, Mr. J. Calder, Mr. T. Begbie, both New Zealand Fieldays, Mr. Tim Richie New Zealand Meat Industry Association, Mr. Allan Pollard, Pipfruit NZ, Mr. Grand Sinclair, Apple NZ Limited, Mr. Nacine Tunley, Pipfruit NZ and Mr. Mike Simpson of Waimea Nurseries.

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PUNJAB PAVILION BAGS BRONZE MEDAL AT INTERNATIONAL TRADE FAIR-2012
CHANDIGARH, NOVEMBER 27:
Punjab Pavilion has bagged Bronze Medal out of all the States and Union Territories for Excellence in Display at 32nd India International Trade Fair-2012. Punjab has been also given special commendation Medal at the prize presentation ceremony, held at Shakuntalam Theatre, Pragati Maidan, New Delhi.
It was disclosed by the official spokesperson of the Punjab Government. He said that the State Pavilion was adjudged by an Eminent Jury comprising of members from all walks of life. The pavilion was adjudged on the basis of creative display based on the theme “Skilling India”. The award was received by Mr. K. Shiva Prashad, Resident Commissioner, New Delhi on behalf of Govt of Punjab from Mrs. D. Purandeswari, Union Minister of States for Commerce and Industry.

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BADAL GREETS PEOPLE ON PARKASH UTSAV OF SRI GURU NANAK DEV JI
Chandigarh, November 27-
Punjab Chief Minister Mr Parkash Singh Badal today felicitated the Punjabis living in country and abroad on the auspicious occasion of Parkash Utsav of Sri Guru Nanak Dev Ji.
In his message on the eve of Gurpurab, the Chief Minister said that Guru Nanak Dev ji was a great spiritual ambassador who guided the humanity to attain salvation by spreading the cult of devotion to God and the eternal message of oneness of God, love, compassion and spirituality amongst the mankind. He said that Sri Guru Nanak Dev ji envisioned a casteless society free from rituals and superstitions, thereby redeeming the suffering humanity from the pangs of agony. Mr Badal said that Sri Guru Nanak Dev ji motivated the humanity with new ideas, aims, aspirations and called upon them to dispense with the maladies of hypocrisy, falsehood, pretensions and caste-prejudices.   "Guru ji's teachings are still relevant today especially in the present complex and materialistic society", said Mr Badal.
The Chief Minister also appealed the people to imbibe the spirit of service and humility as preached by the Great Guru and strive hard for carving out a peaceful, prosperous and healthy society by following the precious legacy of Guru Nanak Dev ji and celebrate this sacred occasion with utmost devotion and dedication rising above the parochial considerations of caste, colour, creed and religion.
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SUKHBIR GREETS PEOPLE ON THE EVE OF PARKASH UTSAV OF SRI GURU NANAK DEV JI

Chandigarh, November 27: The Punjab Deputy Chief Minister Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal today extended his warm greetings to the people of the State on the eve of Parkash Utsav of Sri Guru Nanak Dev Ji.
       Congratulating people on this occasion, the Deputy Chief Minister said that Sri Guru Nanak Dev Ji showed us the path to spiritual salvation and his teachings would always continue to inspire us to embrace equality, compassion and humanism. He said that this day gives us an opportunity to deeply introspect ourselves about Guru Ji's message of meditation and remembering God, honestly earning through one's physical and mental effort while accepting God's gifts and blessings and to share within society.
Mr. Badal said that Sri Guru Nanak's profound message of leading an honest, truthful and virtuous life would continue to guide and inspire humanity in times to come.
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MAJITHIA GREETS PEOPLE ON
PARKASH PURAB OF GURU NANAK DEV JI

Chandigarh, November 27: Revenue, Information and Public Relations Minister of Punjab Mr. Bikram Singh Majithia today greeted the people  on the eve of Parkash Purab of first sikh guru Sri Guru Nanak Dev Ji.
In a message, Mr Majithia said Guru ji gives the message of humanity and brotherhood. He said that Guru Ji raised his voice against the cruelty of Babar and awared the people against the cruelty and social evils. 
He said that we should follow the teachings of Guru Nanak Dev ji for the betterment of society.
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PLACEMENT OF THE STUDENTS BE TOP PRIORITY FOR TECHNICAL EDUCATION DEPARTMENT:JOSHI
CHANDIGARH, NOVEMBER 27:
Mr. Anil Joshi, Technical Education and industrial training minister, Punjab today issued instruction to the Technical Education Department to impart training to the students on latest machines for improving the standards of technical education in the state. He was addressing a meeting of the senior officials of the department.
The Minister informed that placements of the students in the high ranking firms would be their top priority. He said that a JOBFEST was being organized at Ludhiana on November 29, in which more than 60 reputed companies were participating. He said that selections for more than 1200 vacancies were likely to be made in this JOBFEST.
He also called upon the officers to work out the feasibility of starting of short term courses in sectors which were relevant in the present day requirements by giving special care to the school dropout. In the meeting it was stressed by the Minister that quality products should be purchased under PPP and COE scheme and no payment should be released to the suppliers without the physical verification of the material. He instructed the officers to pursue the Pending affiliations from NCTV at the department level. Discussions about introducing Biometric attendance and installation of CCTVs in the institutes for ensuring the attendance of students and faculty were also discussed.

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STATE PUTS WHOLE HEARTED EFFORT TO PROMOTE MAIZE AS VIABLE ALTERNATIVE TO PADDY
CM ASKS MONSANTO COMPANY TO SET UP A R&D CENTRE TO UNDERTAKE EXTENSIVE RESEARCH IN MAIZE SEED
CONSTITUTES A HIGH LEVEL COMMITTEE TO PROVIDE TECHNICAL DATA AND LOGISTIC SUPPORT TO MONSANTO

 Chandigarh, November 26-
In a bid to put the agriculture diversification on fast track, the Punjab Chief Minister Mr Parkash Singh Badal has asked the US-based Monsanto hybrid seed company to establish its research Centre to undertake extensive R&D for the production of high yielding hybrid seeds of the Maize in the state.
A high level delegation of the company led by Vice President, Global Vegetables and Asia Commercial, Ms. Consuelo E Madere recently called on the Chief Minister here at his official residence.
During the deliberations, the Monsanto’s CEO India Region Mr D Narain apprised the Chief Minister that the company had developed heat tolerant hybrid maize varieties for the Northern region  especially Punjab adding that the company had focused to develop maize varieties for the kharif season in order to provide a viable alternative to paddy in the state. He also assured Mr Badal that company would also make all out efforts to develop high yielding soya bean seeds in its endeavor to boost diversification of agriculture in the state.
Assuring all possible assistance to the company, the Chief Minister directed the Vice Chancellor (VC) Punjab Agricultural University (PAU) to provide technical data and logistic support to enable them to produce quality hybrid seeds best suited to the climatic conditions of the state. Mr Badal also constituted a high level committee headed by the Chairman of Punjab Farmers Commission Dr GS Kalkat with Financial Commissioner Development (FCD) Mr GS Sandhu, Advisor to Agriculture Dr Balwinder Singh Sidhu and Director Agriculture Dr Mangal Singh Sandhu as members to work out the modalities for developing high yielding varieties and Maize seed in tandem with the Monsanto Company besides in aiding them to set up research cum seed testing centre at the earliest. The Committee has also been mandated to suggest self sustaining marketing mechanism to ensure hassle free marketing of Maize to the farmers. The Chief Minister also asked the visiting Monsanto team to also provide high yielding varieties of Soya bean seed to give a fillip to the much needed thrust for crop diversification.
It may be recalled that the state government has planned to reduce the shift the areaunder paddy from 28 to 16 lakh hectares in a phased manner over a period of six years. Initially it is purposed to bring nearly four acres of this area to Maize.  
Prominent among other who attended the meeting included Principal Secretary to the Chief Minister Mr SK Sandhu, Special Principal Secretary to the Chief Minister Mr Gaggandip Singh Brar, Chairman of Punjab Farmers Commission Dr GS Kalkat, FCD Mr GS Sandhu, Advisor to Agriculture Dr Balwinder Singh Sidhu and Director Agriculture Dr Mangal Singh Sandhu. The Monsanto was represented by Director Branded Business and Corporate Affairs Mr Gyanendra Shukla and Director Corporate Affairs Mr Rajneesh Kumar.  
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CM CONFERS SAHIL DWIVEDI AND JAGDEEP SINGH FOR BAGGING MEDALS UNDER INSPIRE
·        REITERATES COMMITMENT OF THE STATE GOVERNMENT TO IMPART QUALITY SCIENCE EDUCATION TO STUDENTS

 Chandigarh, November 26-
Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today felicitated a student of Saint Francis School, Amritsar Master Sahil Dviwedi of bagging Bronze Medal at National Level and student of Government Master Jagdeep Singh Middle School Mandiala from District Amritsar of bagging award in a State Level competition with state award, for their rare achievements under the INSPIRE (Innovation in Science Pursuit for Inspired Research) Award scheme.
Conferring the award on the student at a simple but impressive function held here today at his official residence, the Chief Minister said that quality education was the key element for ensuring the all round development of the state due to which their government has been laying thrust on imparting excellent education to the students of Punjab. He further said that today when owing to the development of modern techniques of communication almost the entire world has turned into a global village the state government was fully sensitized about its responsibility to impart quality education to the students so that they could meet the competition worldwide.
The Chief Minister further said that keeping in view the need to impart quality and modern education especially science education to the students their government has accorded top priority to education sector adding that due to the path breaking initiatives taken by them for reforming the Education system Punjab which earlier ranked 14th in the field of education, now leads the country in this field.
On the occasion the Chief Minister was informed that INSPIRE was a National Programme implemented by the Ministry of Science & Technology, Government of India (GoI) for grooming the talent amongst students to study science and pursue career with research. Mr Badal was apprised that Master Sahil got the award under the scheme for children in the age group of 10-15 covering all middle and secondary schools in the country for his innovative project ‘Mobile Operated Wireless Switch’, which could operate any electrical device connected to it just by receiving a call from the user’s phone. The user could operate any device, from any distance, for any duration. The Chief Minister was also informed that Jagdeep Singh gave innovative ideas for disaster management of Nuclear power Plants.
Prominent among those present on the occasion included Principal Secretary to the Chief Minister Mr. SK Sandhu, Principal Secretary Science, Technology and Environment Mr. Karan Avtar Singh, Director General School Education Mr. Kahan Singh Pannu, Joint Principal Secretary to the Chief Minister Mr. Sandeep Hans and Director General, Pushpa Gujral Science City Dr. R. S. Khandpur.
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UPA RUNNING AWAY FROM VOTE IN PARLIAMENT ON FDI IN RETAIL: SUKHBIR

• PUNJAB TO REVIEW THREAT PERCEPTION OF ALL PROTECTEES
• NO SHORTAGE OF COAL IN THERMAL PLANTS
• INAUGURATES METRO CASH AND CARRY AT AMRITSAR

AMRITSAR, NOVEMBER 26: Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal, Deputy Chief Minister, Punjab today said that Congress led UPA Congress was running away from vote in Parliament on the crucial issue of ‘Foreign Direct Investment’ in Retail Sector as it was fearing threat even its allies would not support the Government on anti-people FDI issue.

Speaking to media persons here, Mr. Badal accompanied by Mr. Bikram Singh Majithia, Revenue Minister, Punjab said that NDA as well as all opposition parities have been demanding a vote under section 184 on this crucial issue impacting our economy but Congress led UPA Government wanted to rush through this decision ignoring the ‘Temple of Democracy-Parliament’. He said that Shiromani Akali Dal as well as NDA was a firm view that on this crucial issue of FDI in Retail all stake holders including retailers, farmers, all political parties, traders should have been taken into loop but Congress led UPA Government wants to impose this decision like a dictator. He said that NDA would not allow UPA-II fiddle with the economy of the country. He said that Shiromani Akali Dal had supported FDI in wholesale as it felt that it would be beneficial to the retailers, farmers and traders removing the middlemen from the cycle but in the case of FDI in retail there was a question mark on the life and death of crores of retailers dependant on their neighbourhood shops.

          Answering a query, Mr. Badal said that he has already ordered review of security of all protectees after the incident of shoot out in New Delhi farm house. He said that the concerned committee would soon meet and would retune the security according to the threat perception of each protectee. He said that security cover would not be allowed to use it as ornamental showoff.

          Rubbishing the reports of shortage of Coal, Mr. Badal said that Powercom was reviewing the situation on day to day basis and he has already requested the Railway Minister to allocate more wagons for bringing coal from Jharkhand and Chattisgarh.

          Earlier, inaugurating the outlet of METRO-Cash and Carry here, Mr. Badal accompanied by Mr. Rajeev Bakshi, MD, Metro Cash and Carry  said that it was the fourth outlet in the state and 14th in the country, which would offer business customers a wider assortment of over 10,000 food and non-food products on wholesale prices. He said that such kind of outlets were the ‘best model of wholesale’, which would provide more than 90% country produced and made varieties of best qualities. He said that this outlet has provided direct and indirect job opportunities to more than 300 youth of the district.  

          Prominent amongst those were present on the occasion included Mr. Bikram Singh Majithia, Revenue Minister, Punjab, Mr. Inderbir Singh Bolaria, Chief Parliamentary Secretary, Mr. Balwant Singh Ramoowalia, Former Union Minister, Mr. Rajat Aggarwal, Deputy Commissioner, Mr. Ram Singh, Commissioner of Police.

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 Congress outrightly rejects and trashes the politically motivated, frivolous and farcical investigation conducted into the Border Area Development Programme(BADP) fund scam by the VB.

Sukhpal Singh Khaira
Ex-MLA
            As reported, the Vigilance Bureau has completed its investigation into the BADP fund scam and has held Sh. Sarabdyal Singh PA to Ex Minister Sh. Ranike guilty and the main accused in the scam. After submitting its report to the High Court, the Vigilance Bureau is likely to file the challan before the appropriate court at Amritsar shortly.
            As per the investigations, Sh. Sarabdyal Singh PA and eight others embezzled funds to the tune of Rs 3.19 cr of discretionary grants from 2007-12 by opening fake bank accounts, similarly Rs 1.24 cr was sanctioned to non existing clubs and that another Rs 26.10 lac were embezzled in the Shagun scheme in Attari constituency in the said period.
            Even if we rely on the so called investigations of the VB, there is much more than meets the eye, is it possible that the PA carried out his fraudulent methodology of embezzlement and the Minister knew nothing about what was going on?  No PA has the audacity to embezzle govt. funds without the knowledge of the Minister concerned, no sane person can buy this argument of a highly politicized Vigilance Bureau. The fact is that the entire investigation conducted by the VB smacks of a biased approach, wherein the PA has been made a scape goat, while Sh. Ranike has been blatantly shielded, protected and given a clean chit. Although, the VB was able to identify disproportionate assets to the tune of Rs. 2.5 cr amassed by the PA Sarabdyal Singh but no such effort was made to inquire upon the ill-gotten wealth of the Minister.
            Infact, the govt. has for long been shielding all its high ups including Sh. Ranike, Sh. Langah, Sh. Valtoha and others involved in corruption scandals, the protectors of law in Punjab have now become protectors of law breakers.
            Congress debunks, trashes and outrightly rejects the fabricated, farcical and politically motivated report of the VB and demands that the investigation of the BADP fund scam, the shagun scam and the Discretionary grant scam be handed over to the CBI, so that actual culprits including Sh. Ranike are brought to justice.
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I support Sh. Ravi Inder Singh’s contention for a direct election to the post of President SGPC.

SUKHPAL SINGH KHAIRA
Ex-MLA, Punjab

Instead of opposing the move of the Delhi govt. to amend the Delhi Sikh Gurudwara Act 1971, which proposes direct elections to the office of President, Sh. Badal should urge the Ministry of Home Affairs, G.O.I. to amend the SGPC Act to usher in direct election to the office of President. Sh. Badal is opposing direct election in Delhi on two counts, one that he senses imminent defeat and secondly that he wants a rubber stamp in Delhi too like Sh. Makkar.c
As we are aware, vibrant democracies such as U.S.A. have direct election to the  office of President, even mayor’s and President’s  of Municipal Committee’s in many parts of India are elected directly, At the grass roof level democracy in India, Sarpanches are also elected directly in our country. Releasing its folly and bad experience of instability, the SAD-BJP govt. has again reversed its decision and decided to elect Sarpanches directly in Punjab as well.
Needless to mention direct form of election eradicates horse trading, switching of loyalties at the drop of the hat and govt. pressure compared to indirect form of any election. Punjab is classic example of large number of complaints and even litigation that erupted after indirect election was introduced to the post of Sarpanches in the present tenure.
In so far the election to the office of SGPC President is concerned, it is an open secret that the Badal duo send a sealed envelope each November to Amritsar and have their protégé elected as President. The general house of the SGPC is a mute spectator, helpless and redundant in the said prestigious election. The President of the SGPC is imposed by the Badal family rather than elected by members.
By electing their dummy or frontman as SGPC President the Badals have done a great disservice to the community. There are reports of gross politicization of the SGPC, corruption is rampant in the body and Sikhs are largely dissatisfied by the performance of the highest religious body. Even the appointment and selection of Jathedar Akal Takhat Sahib is being done at the whims and fancies of the Badal clan.
Therefore, it is demanded that not only the President of DSGMC should be elected directly but the SGPC must move a resolution for an amendment to elect its President directly for transparency accountability and its independent working.

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PUNJAB PANCHAYATS’ EARN Rs. 221 CRORE FROM AUCTION OF PANCHAYAT LANDS: RAKHRA

• FIXES TARGET OF Rs. 250 CRORE FOR NEXT YEAR

CHANDIGARH, NOVEMBER 26:
The Punjab Government has earned Rs. 221 crore from the auction of shamlat (common land) and undivided public properties in the state by holding transparent auctioning of such lands ensuring proper videography of the whole process.

            Disclosing this here today, Mr. Surjit Singh Rakhra, Panchayat and Rural Development Minister, said that Punjab Government had initiated a campaign against illegal possession on common and undivided lands in villages of Punjab, which has brought fruit for the state government as with the transparent auction the state has received a big increase to its exchequer. He said that this increase would further give a momentum to the ongoing pace of development in rural areas.

            Divulging details of campaign, Mr. Rakhra said that earlier the said amount was Rs. 208 crore but by tightening the noose of illegal occupants and making the system more efficient, the state has got an increase of Rs. 13 crore this year. He said that the Punjab Government has fixed the target of Rs. 250 crore for the next year through the auction system.
           
            Mr. Rakhra said that all the auctions with more than Rs. 1 lakh of amount were made under videography to maintain the transparency. He said that the auction of land up to 25 acres was conducted in the presence of Extension Officers while the auction for areas having more than 25 acres of land was made in the presence of BDPOs.

            The Minister said that where Punjab Government was preparing welfare and development schemes for the rural population in the state there the Panchayat Department was also stressing on the need of increasing income sources for further acceleration in development works.  
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ROB OVER KAPURTHALA-KHOJEWALA HIGHWAY SOON: DHILLON

• FOUR LANE ROB BE BUILT WITH THE COST OF RS.34 CRORE

CHANDIGARH, NOVEMBER 26:
The Punjab Government has decided to construct four lane railways over bridge (RoB) over the Kapurthala-Khojewala Railway link on the Jalandhar-Kapurthala road with the cost of Rs.34 crore. It was disclosed by Mr. Sharanjit Singh Dhillon, PWD Minister, Punjab.
He said that the construction of this four lane RoB would be helpful in solving the ever increasing congestion on roads of this area. Mr. Dhillon further said that the government has also initiated the work for constructing 4 km long new road and up gradation of 3.2 km stretch of the same road leading from Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana to Borlaug Institute of South Asia (BISA), which would strengthen the communication route between these two institutes.
Minister said that the state government has already construct Bathinda-Badal road with the cost of Rs.29 crore at Bathinda, construction of RoB at Bahadurgarh-Ghanaur-Shambhu highway with the cost of Rs.17 crore, whereas Rs.21 crore has been invested on the construction of railway under bridge (RuB) on Bathinda-Talwandi Sabo highway at Bathinda. He said that the three lane bridge on Amritsar-Jalandhar highway and high level bridge on river Satluj between Makhu-Sultanpur Lodhi Road and high level bridge at Muradpura Drain has been opened for the public, which have recently been constructed by the government.

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APPOINTMENT LETTERS TO NEWLY RECRUITED 106 FACULTY MEMBERS TO BE GIVEN ON NOVEMBER 30
CHANDIGARH, NOVEMBER 26:
Mr. Chunni Lal Bhagat, Medical Education and Research Minister would hand over the appointment letters to the newly recruited 106 faculty members on November 30.
                An Official spokesman said that the Minister would hand over the appointment letters at Baba Farid University of Health Sciences, Faridkot to the Faculty Members recruited for Government Medical College, Patiala and Amritsar and Government Ayurvedic College, Patiala. 
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13230055 TONNES PADDY PROCURED IN PUNJAB

Chandigarh, November 26:
          Paddy Procurement is on full swing in Punjab. Government agencies and private millers procured more than 13230055 tones of paddy till last evening. The State Government has set up more than 1770 procurement centers and activated its total machinery to ensure smooth procurement of paddy.
 The spokesman of the Punjab government said that Out of total procurement of 13230055 tones of paddy in all the procurement centers of Punjab, Government agencies procured 12617089 tones of paddy till date whereas private traders procured 612966 tones of paddy. Till November 25, PUNGRAIN procured 3729000 tones (29.6%), MARKFED procured 2871164 tones (22.8%). whereas PUNSUP had procured 2884805 tones (22.9%) PSWC procured 1257736 tones (10.0%) whereas PAFC was able to procure 1302057 tones (10.3%) of paddy. The Central Government agency FCI had been able to procure 572327 tones (4.5%). 
          The spokesman added that District Ludhiana with 1565513 tones of procurement was leading in procurement operations whereas District Sangrur with 1543833 tones of procurement was at second slot and district Patiala with 1233432 tones of procurement ranked at third position.       
 
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HALF DAY HOLIDAY IN PUNJAB

Chandigarh November 26:-
Punjab Government has decleared 2nd half holiday today i.e. 26th November 2012 in its offices, Boards & Corporations and educational institutions located in Chandigarh and Mohali to enable the government employees to participate in ‘Nagar Kirtan’, to be organized on the eve of birthday of Sri Guru Nanak Dev Ji.
      However the offices of State, Boards, Corporations and also Education Institutions in rest of the State would remain closed for the second half of November 27th, 2012 (Tuesday).
        A notification in this regard has been issued to all Heads of Departments and Managing Directors of Boards & Corporations, Registrar, Punjab & Haryana High Court, Commissioners of all the Divisions, Deputy Commissioners of all Districts and SDMs of all Sub-Divisions throughout the State.

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NEW AND RENEWABLE SOURCES OF ENERGY POLICY WOULD ATTRACT INVESTMENT OF Rs. 18000 CRORE: MAJITHIA

·        MORE THAN 25000 YOUTH TO GET DIRECT AND INDIRECT EMPLOYMENT 
·        PUNJAB FARMERS TO BE BENEFITTED BY THIS POLICY IN A BIG WAY
·        VARIOUS INCENTIVES ANNOUNCED FOR THE INVESTORS

CHANDIGARH, NOVEMBER 25: The New and Renewable Energy Policy-2012 approved by the Punjab Cabinet today would attract an estimated investment of Rs. 18,000 crore besides providing direct and indirect employment to more than 25000 youth in the state.

          Disclosing this here today, Mr. Bikram Singh Majithia, Non Conventional Energy Minister said that the revolutionary policy approved by the Punjab Cabinet would not only change the energy scene of Punjab but also generate more employment avenues for the people of the State. Besides attracting large investments, it would also generate 10 percent of the total power installed capacity thus bridging the gap between demand and supply.

          Elaborating the features of policy, Mr. Majithia said that the policy is also the alternate for the conventional power generation in view of the depleting minerals and other natural resources. The new targets of power generation have been fixed by different modes i.e. Solar, Biomass, Co-generation power projects. He said that 1000MW would be generated through Solar Power, 600 MW would be generated with Biomass Power, 500MW with Co-generation Power Project, 250 MW Small/Mini/Micro Hydel and 50 MW from Urban, Municipal and Industrial Liquid/Solid Waste. He said that in view of interests of state peasantry, under this new policy the Agricultural land would also be allowed to use for setting up of Renewable Energy Power Projects in the state and no CLU, EDC or any other charges/fees for the same are to be paid.

          Reiterating commitment of SAD-BJP Government to produce power from paddy straw, Mr. Majithia said that the Punjab agriculture is dominated by wheat paddy cycle producing more than 10 million tons of paddy straw. He said that earlier the paddy straw was being burnt by the farmers but now the paddy straw would contribute to farmers’ income and also to power generation. He said that it is estimated that huge quantities of surplus agro residues (including rice straw) and agro industrial/processing waste produced annually can also generate de-centralized power of more than 600 MW. The policy is going to be exceptionally beneficial for the farmers of the State as well as the entrepreneurs who have been offered huge incentives for setting up the plants. Under this policy the various Incentives being offered will include 100% Electricity Duty for power consumed from state licensee during construction and testing of the project shall be waived. To promote usage /generation from NRSE, manufacturing & sale of NRSE devices/systems, and equipments / machinery required for NRSE Power Projects shall be exempted from Value Added Tax (VAT) and any cess thereupon. This VAT exemption is also being given by the States of Rajasthan, Maharashtra and Tamil Nadu.100% Exemption from entry tax in respect of all supplies (including capital goods, structure and raw materials) made for setting up and trial operations of the projects. Solar Panels and PCU are already exempted from entry tax and only steel items has to be exempted which is being used for erection / manufacturing of equipments for NRSE Projects. Already the states of Rajasthan and Maharashtra have exempted entry tax.100% exemption from payment of fee and stamp duty for registration/lease deed charges for the land required for the project. Agricultural land shall be allowed to be used for setting up of Renewable Energy Power Projects in the state and no CLU, EDC/or any other charges/fees for the same shall be payable. Solar PV Power projects shall be exempted from obtaining any NOC/consent under Pollution control laws from the PPCB.
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ILLEGAL HOARDINGS TO BE MADE CRIMINAL OFFENCE- SUKHBIR
•        CABINET TO GIVE NOD TO NEW LAW
•        90% NATIONAL HIGHWAYS FOUR LANED BY NEXT YEAR
•        1600 KILOMETRES OUT OF TOTAL 1703 KILOMETRES OF NATIONAL HIGHWAY WOULD BE FOUR LANED BY DECEMBER 2013
•        INSPECTS THE WORK ON ROAD ALONG SIRHIND
Ludhiana, November 25:
The Punjab government would soon enact a law to make illegal hoardings a criminal offence to check the increasing practice defacing the cities besides impacting the revenue of municipalities.
          This was disclosed by Punjab Deputy Chief Minister Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal while interacting with media after inspecting the work on road along Sirhind canal. Mr. Badal said that the cabinet has already given nod to the new advertisement policy under which electronic bill boards would dot the cities. He said the cabinet would also soon approve a law for criminal provisions for putting up illegal hoardings. He said that the Punjab Government has decided to widen all the roads along the canals in the state with a view to upgrade this archaic road network besides providing better commuting facilities especially to the rural commuters .He said that he has asked to identify such important routes. He said that after completion of identification process, the construction of new roads would be started soon.
           He said that he issued directions for expediting work on Ropar-Neelon-Doraha canal-side and to conclude the project within stipulated time period besides maintaining the quality of work. 
          Mr. Badal said that the focus of SAD-BJP government in its second term was to make road infrastructure in the state best in the country as the four lane roads network to make the state epicentre of investment. He was happy that Punjab would be the only state in the country that would have its 90% National Highways four lane by next year. He said that with the completion of all ongoing projects 1600 Kilometers out of total 1703 Kilometers of National Highway would be four laned by December 2013.
          He informed that he has already given nod  to four  laning of 10 important roads at the cost of Rs 1357 crore, and asked the department to put four laning of Ropar-Chamkaur Sahib-Neelon-Doraha Road along Sirhind Canal, Kotkapura-Muktsar Road, Batala-Mehta-Beas Road, Kapurthala-Nakodar-Phillaur Road, Maanpur Head to Jagraon-Raikot Road along Abohar Branch, Maanpur Head to Barnala-Raikot Road along Bathinda Branch, Nidampur-Lehra Road along Ghaggar Branch, Rayya to Khara along Sabhraon Branch and Tanda-Shri Hargobindpur-Amritsar Road on fast-track and directed for its completion within next two years.
          He said that ambitious four laning of Zirakpur-Patiala (Rs 501 Crore), Patiala-Bathinda (Rs 2007 crore) has got nod of Cabinet Committee of Infrastructure Projects, whereas for Amritsar-Sri Ganganagar, Jalandahr-Jind Road, alignments have been already approved. He said that six laning of Shambhu-Jalandhar Road would be completed by June next year.
          Mr. Sharanjit Singh Dhillon PWD Minister also accompanied the Punjab Deputy Chief Minister.
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SUKHBIR CONDOLES DEMISE OF ASHA JOSHI, MOTHER OF THE TRIBUNE CORRESPONDENT DHARMENDRA JOSHI

CHANDIGARH, NOVEMBER 25: Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal, Deputy Chief Minister, Punjab today expressed profound grief over the demise of Mrs. Asha Joshi, mother of Mr. Dharmendra Joshi, Staff Correspondent of The Tribune at Jalandhar.

Mrs. Asha Joshi expired on Sunday morning at Jalandhar.
           
In a condolence message Mr. Badal said that it was a great loss to the family of Mrs. Joshi. He prayed to the Almighty to give peace to the departed soul and strength to the bereaved family to bear this irreparable loss. 
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BADAL MOURNS DEMISE OF ASHA JOSHI THE MOTHER THE TRIBUNE SCRIBE DHARMINDERA JOSHI

MAJITHIA CONDOLES SAD DEMISE OF ASHA JOSHI

Chandigarh November 25: Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today expressed grief and sorrow over the passing away of Smt. Asha Joshi, the mother of Jalandhar based Staff Correspondent The Tribune Mr. Dharmindra Joshi.
          In a condolence message the Chief Minister said that it was a colossal loss to the family of the deceased.  Mr. Badal prayed to the Almighty to give eternal peace to the departed soul and enormous strength to the bereaved family to bear this huge loss.
          Meanwhile, the Information & Public Relations and Revenue Minister Mr. Bikram Singh Majithia also mourned the sad demise of Smt. Asha Joshi and shared his heartfelt sympathies with the members of the bereaved family.
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KOHAR DIRECTS DRIVERS TO ENSURE BOARDING OF STUDENTS ON BUSES
STOP DESTROYING PUBLIC TRANSPORT- KOHAR TELLS STUDENTS
Chandigarh November 25:  Taking serious note of the attitude of the drivers towards stopping the buses for the school and college students, Mr. Ajit Singh Kohar, Transport Minister Punjab has directed the drivers to make sure that the students board the buses so that they could reach their institutions well at time.
                In a statement issued here today, the Minister said that the government was not only committed to provide quality education to the students but at the same the government was committed to ensure timely and safe transportation of the students to their respective educational institutions.
                Referring to the students adopting destructive approach on their way to their respective institutions, the Minister made a fervent appeal to them to adopt a peaceful and rational way of putting forward their demands rather destroying the public transport. The school and college students are expected to be in total discipline and follow the set of rules laid down by the government transport authorities. They should avoid forcibly stopping the long route buses as it often caused inconvenience to the passengers. He also asked the students to avail and not misuse the bus pass facility being extended by the government for them. They should only be traveling in the buses meant for students along with the valid bus passes. On the other hand, the minister said that the drivers have already been directed to stop the long route buses for the students on the main stoppages only if there were seats available in the buses.
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MALWA ALL SET TO BECOME TEXTILE HUB OF SOUTH-EAST ASIA:JOSHI
REVIEWS THE PROGRESS OF TEXTILE PARK IN MUKATSAR
Chandigarh, November, 25:               
Malwa region of Punjab is all set to become the new textile hub of south-east Asia. It was disclosed by Mr. Anil Joshi, Industry and Commerce Minister, Punjab today while reviewing the progress of Rs.1485 crore textile unit coming up expeditiously on 350 acre of land in district Muktsar.
He said that Under the new textile policy of Punjab,  a Textile Park having composite Textile Processing units from Cotton to Garment would be setup with minimum Fixed Capital Investment of Rs.250 crore in the districts of Bathinda, Mansa, Faridkot, Ferozepur, Mukatsar, Sangrur, Barnala, Taran Taran and Amritsar is covered under this policy.
He said that with the Operationalization of this unit in Malwa area all international denim units would procure their denim from this company. He said that textile industry was the labour intensive industry and with the completion of Textile Park in the Malwa area there was possibility of generation of 1 lac jobs.
Mr. Joshil said that 100% power at doorstep with the facility of Power Grid at the cost of the unit in the textile park was the main attraction of the policy. He said that however setting up of their own power plant would be allowed for self consumption.
Mr. Joshi said that courses for the skills required by the Park would be allowed to be introduced in the nearest Industrial Training Institutes. He said that each unit setup within the Park will get all the above benefits.
NO;PR/12/

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JYANI ORDERS REORGANIZATION OF FOREST  BEATS

• MORE AREA TO BE BROUGHT UNDER FOREST LAND

Chandigarh November 25

 Mr Surjit Kumar Jayani, Forest Minister Punjab has ordered the complete reorganization of the Forest Beat system which has been prevailing in the  Forest Department since the British times. The “Beats” are the lowest organizational  units of Forest Department held by the Forest Guards. Forest Beats were  constituted to include only Government forest areas whereas other non-forest lands  including village panchayat lands, Government institutions etc. were not covered under Forest Beats. However, the  Minister has ordered the reorganization of  Forest Beats so as to include all panchayat lands, village lands, institutional lands and private areas thereby bringing all these non-forest areas under the management  responsibility of the Forest Guards.
The Minister further said that the Forest Guards have now been entrusted with the plantation and protection  of trees in schools, hospitals, panchyats lands, villages and other institutional non-forest  areas besides their traditional responsibility of administration of Government Forest areas. This step would  build up close relations between the Forest Department and the According to the Forest Survey of India, 6.12 crore trees are located outside the traditional forest areas in Punjab State. The production of wood outside forests is more  than three times than that in the Government forests in the State. The trees outside  forests perform many ecological, social and economical functions.  provide wood for the industrial units and fuel wood for the poor, but also provide  environmental benefits to all. The tradition of preserving trees by the Temples,  Gurudwaras and the Deras will get a further boost due to this strategy adopted by the Department. The Re-organization of Forest Beats will greatly facilitate the involvement of the community in the “Greening Punjab Mission” launched by the Chief Minister Punjab wherein it is planned to increase the Forest and Tree cover in the State from existing 7% to 15%, added the Minister.

The Minister has also ordered that all the field functionaries of the  Department (Range Officers, Deputy Rangers, Block Officers and Forest Guards) will wear prescribed uniforms while on duty. The orders for the uniforms of all field functionaries has already been placed after inviting tenders and the uniforms would be supplied to all field staff by end of November. He further informed that the 180 new Forest Guards who had been recruited by the Department earlier this  year had completed one month induction training in Police Training Centre, Kharkan and 3 months rigorous Forestry Training in PAU, Ludhiana. These Forest Guards had now been deployed in the field. Additional 230 Forest Guards are also being recruited for the Department through the Subordinate Services Selection Board and the list of selected candidates was likely to be received from the Board shortly. The additional man-power at grass roof level would be a great help in the successful implementation of the Greening Punjab Mission, added the Minister.
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---3RD WORLD CUP KABADDI

KABADDI EXPANDS ITS WINGS TO EUROPE AND AFRICA AS 16 COUNTRIES CONFIRM THEIR PARTICIPATION

• CUT THROAT COMPETITION TO WIN THE PRIZE MONEY OF 4.81 CRORE, WITH FIRST TEAM TO WIN RECORD 2 CRORE PRIZE MONEY
• FIRST TIME COUNTRIES FROM ALL CONTINENTS IN WORLD CUP
• WOMEN TEAMS FROM 7 COUNTRIES TO VIE FOR RECORD 1.43 CRORE PRIZE MONEY

• SUKHBIR INSTRUCTS TO ENSURE TOTAL DOPE FREE TOURNAMENT

• ALL TEAMS ISSUED STRICT ADVISORY TO ENSURE PROPER COMPLIANCE ON DOPE ISSUE

CHANDIGARH, November 23: The Punjab is all set to witness biggest ever 15 day long sports extravaganza as 16 countries from all continents would descend in Punjab to participate in 3rd edition of World Cup Kabaddi from December 1 to 15, 2012.

            The Punjab Deputy Chief Minister Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal while reviewing its preparations announced doubling of prize money for women team from Rs. 25 lakh to 51 lakh for the winner, Rs 15 lakh to 31 lakh for the runners-up and Rs 10 to 21 lakh for the third position. In men category the prize money has already been doubled to Rs. 2 crore for winner, Rs. 1 crore for runners-up and Rs. 51 lakh for the third position.

            Mr. Badal said that he was happy that for the first time teams from European and African countries are participating in the World Cup Kabaddi. He said that 16 countries including England, Afghanistan, Denmark, Canada, New Zealand, Sri Lanka, Norway, Pakistan, Sierra Leone, Scotland, Argentina, Italy, Iran, Kenya and USA have given their consent to participate in the world cup. He said that in the women section 7 countries including India, Canada, Denmark, England, Turkmenistan, USA and Malaysia would vie for record Rs. 1.43 crore prize money.

            The Deputy Chief Minister said that the opening ceremony at Bathinda on 1st December would be a star studded show with latest laser show that would put Olympic inauguration to a shade. He said that his basic purpose was to popularize Kabaddi to every country in all continents so that it could get its recognition in the Olympics. Mr. Badal said that Director Sports of International Olympic Association has commended the efforts of Punjab Government in popularizing the traditional game and taking it to World Cup level.

            Mr. Badal said that World Cup Kabaddi matches would be held at 13 venues at Patiala, Hoshiarpur, Amritsar, Sangrur, Roop Nagar, Doda, Chohla Sahib, Fazilka, Gurdaspur, Mansa, Bathinda, Jalandhar and Ludhiana. He said that men teams would be stationed at Jalandhar and Bathinda whereas women teams would be stationed at Ludhiana.

            Expressing happiness over massive response to Kabaddi especially by women participants, Mr. Badal said that for the first time 200 probables came for trial from all over India and trial had to be extended for two days to complete the selection process.

            Issuing directions for ensuring total Dope free world Cup Mr. Badal said that his sole message of popularizing sports was to wean away youth from the drugs. He said that Ministry of Sports and National Anti Dope Agency has already been requested to ensure Dope Test of all players and an Anti Dope Committee has already been setup. Mr. Badal said that Rs. 40 lakh has already been set aside for Dope testing facilities and he warned that players failing dope test would have to forgo their prize money and they would be banned for next two years. Mr. Badal said that all participating countries have been sent strict advisory by World Cup Kabaddi Organsing Committee that they should ensure their cooperation in conducting dope free World Cup.

            Secretary Sports Mr. P.S. Aujla, informed that the Punjab Government has already got no objection from various authorities and a committee under ADGP Mr. Hardeep Dhillon has been constituted for ensuing foolproof security to the participating teams.

Prominent amongst those present in the occasion were included Mr. Sukhdev Singh Dhindsa, Member Parliament, Mr. Bikram Singh Majithia, NRIs Affairs Minister, Mr. Sikander Singh Maluka, Education Minister, Mr. Sarwan Singh Phillaur, Tourism Minister, Mr. Ajit Singh Kohar, Transport Minister, Mr. Surjit Singh Rakhra, Rural Development and Panchayats Minister, Mr. Sharanjit Singh Dhillon, PWD Minister, Mr. Pawan Kumar Tinu, CPS Sports, Mr. Sohan Singh Thandal, Mrs. Mahinder Kaur Josh, Mr. Mantar Singh Brar (all CPS), Mr. Mahesh Inder Singh Grewal, Mr. Kamal Sharma (both advisors to CM), Mr. Tota Singh, Former Minister and MLA,  Mr. Pargat Singh, Mr. Gurpartap Singh Wadala and Mr. Surinder Singh Bhulewal Rathan, Mr. Darshan Singh Shivalik (all MLAs), Mr. S.K. Sandhu, Principal Secretary to CM, Mr. P.S. Aujla, Principal Secretary to Deputy CM, Mr. N.S. Kang, Financial Commissioner Revenue, Mr. S.S. Channi, Principal Secretary NRI Affairs, Mr. A.R. Talwar, Principal Secretaries Industries, Mr. R. K. Ghanta, Commissioner NRI Affairs, Mr. Manvesh Singh Sidhu and Mr. Ajay Mahajan (both Special Principal Secretaries to Dy CM), Mr. Priyank Bharti, DC Jalandhar, Mrs. Alak Nanda Dyal, DC Kapurthala and Mr. D.S. Mangat, Director Public Relations.  

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CM ASKS MEDICAL FRATERNITY TO POPULARIZE AYUSH AS ALTERNATE SYSTEM OF MEDICINE

• CREATE AWARENESS ABOUT AYURVEDA AT GRASS ROOT LEVEL
• INAUGURATES FOUR DAY AROGYA MELA
• CANCER DETECTION CAMPAIGN TO BE LAUNCHED IN PUNJAB FROM DECEMBER 1- MITTAL

Sri Anandpur Sahib, November 23
       Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh today asked the medical fraternity to popularize the Ayush-Ayurved, Yoga, Unani, Sidha, Naturopathy and Homeopathy as an alternative system of medicine to the much publicised Allopathic system by creating awareness amongst the masses at grass roots level in view of its time tested credibility and affordability.
       Addressing a public gathering at the launch of four day Arogya Mela, jointly organised by the GoI and State Ayush Department in collaboration of FICCI, the Chief Minister said that the Ayush system especially Ayurveda had comparatively lesser side effects than allopathy and was also cost effective. He emphasised the need to intensify efforts for undertaking research in the Ayurveda so that complicated diseases like Cancer, Hepatitis and Cardiac ailments could also be effectively cured.
       Appreciating the efforts of the State Ayush Department to hold this Medical Camp-cum-exhibition, Mr. Badal asked the doctors to ensure proper follow up in the cases of patients who were diagnosed with serious ailments. He said the state government had already held two mega medial camps at village Badal in Muktsar district and Mansa where 19000 and 27000 patients were medically checked up and given suitable treatment besides medicines free of cost. He said since Health and Education were the core sectors for the development of any state or country, therefore the SAD-BJP alliance government had focused all its attention to develop these sectors by allocating maximum funds. He assured the Health & Family Welfare Minister that the State Government would leave no stone unturned to promote Ayush system of medicine in the state as the health of citizens of all age groups was the primary concern.
       On the occasion, the Chief Minister asked the Cabinet Minister and the local MLA Mr. Mittal to prepare a blue print for the overall development of Sri Anandpur Sahib and assured that the paucity of funds would not be allowed to hamper the progress of this holy town. He also deputed the SDM Sri Anandpur Sahib as a nodal officer to get the development works executed in the village Kalyanpur in the Kiratpur Sahib block as demanded by the local panchayat. Responding to another demand put forth by Mr. Mittal for channelization of Swan Rivulet, the Chief Minister assured that he would soon get the comprehensive proposal finalised from the Drainage department so that the work could be started on the project at the earliest to save the local residents and their property from the fury of floods.
       Speaking on the occasion, the Health & Family Welfare Minister Mr. Madan Mohan Mittal said that all out efforts were made to upgrade the infrastructure in all health institutions across the state in order to provide the best diagnostic and health care facilities to the people from all sections of the society especially the rural folk. He said after Faridkot district a vigorous campaign was being launched by the Health Department to detect the Cancer cases across the state from December 1 to 31, 2012. 
       Earlier, Mr. Badal inaugurated the Arogya Mela by lighting the lamp.
On the occasion, Mr. Mittal visited the various stalls put up the Ayurvedics and Naturopathy companies besides interacting with doctors and patients.
       Prominent among others who were present included MLA Ropar Dr. Daljeet Singh Cheema, Principal Secretary Health & Family Welfare Mrs. Vinni Mahajan, Commissioner Ayush Department Punjab Mr. Raj Kamal Chaudary, Director Ayush Dr. Rakesh Sharma besides senior functionaries of Department of Ayush, GoI.
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BADAL ANNOUNCES TO SET UP MEMORIAL TO PERPETUATE THE LEGACY OF BHAI MATI DASS, BHAI SATI DASS AND BHAI DYAL DASS IN PUNJAB

• ASKS BRAHMIN SABHA TO LAUCH THIS YATRA EVERY YEAR
• YATRA TO STRENGTHEN BONDS OF SECULARISM, COMMUNAL HARMONY AND UNITY

Sri Anandpur Sahib, November 23
          Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today announced that the State Government would soon erect a monument in the memory of great martyrs Bhai Mati Dass, Bhai Sati Dass and Bhai Dyal Dass, who were martyred along with the Ninth Guru of the Sikhs Sri Guru Teg Bahadur ji by the Mughals at Chandni Chowk in Delhi. The concept and design of the monument would be finalized in consultation with eminent Sikh scholars, intellectuals and religious personalities.
          Addressing a religious congregation here at Gurdwara Sri Bhora Sahib where nearly 5000 Brahmins from across the state had converged in the form of huge delegation led by the President Shri Brahmin Sabha Punjab Mr. Devi Dyal Prashar during a ‘Rin Utaar Yatan Yatra’ (a journey aimed at an endeavour to repay the debt of Guru ji), Mr. Badal said that it was historic day when the Brahmin community has come to the holy place of Sri Anandpur Sahib from where Sri Guru Teg Bahadur Sahib launched his journey to save the Hindu community from the tyranny and oppression unleashed by the then Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb in 1675.
          It may be recalled that Pandit Kirpa Ram Dutt called on Guru Teg Bahadur ji along with a delegation of 500 Brahmins from Kashmir urging him to protect them and their religion from the oppression of Mughals way back in 1675. 
The Chief Minister said that the unparalleled and unique sacrifice of Sri Guru Teg Bahadur ji would ever remain a source of inspiration for generations to come. Mr. Badal said Guru ji popularly known as ‘Hind di Chadar’ was the saviour of Dharma and crusader of religious freedom adding that it was immensely important for everyone to respect all the religions thereby fostering the bonds of communal harmony, peace, national integration and unity. He said the Sikh Philosophy was a perfect blend of socialism and secularism because the concept of Langar (community kitchen) propagated a sense of equality amongst the masses irrespective of caste, creed and colour where as secularism has been aptly demonstrated and exemplified by Sri Guru Teg Bahadur ji’s martyrdom, who laid down his life at the altar of righteousness (Dharma) to save the Hindu religion from the tyranny of Mughals. He said our great Gurus; Sri Guru Arjun Dev ji, Sri Guru Teg Bahadur ji and Sri Guru Gobind Singh ji made supreme sacrifices for the welfare of humanity while fighting against injustice, cruelty and oppression. He said where all of us seek inspiration from Guru Teg Bahadur ji’s supreme sacrifice, at the same time we also pay rich tributes to his three accomplices Bhai Mati Dass, Bhai Sati Dass and Bhai Dyal Dass who were also martyred along with Guru ji.
          Appreciating the goodwill gesture of Brahmin Sabha to launch this journey for expressing gratitude to Sri Teg Bahadur ji for his unprecedented and unique sacrifice in the world history to ensure religious freedom to Hindu community, Mr. Badal said this journey should be made an annual feature to ensure participation of more people from barely thousands to millions from coming years. He said this journey should not merely viewed as an ordinary event but it was a great endeavour by the Brahmins Sabha to disseminate the message for strengthening the bonds of  communal harmony, secularism and brotherhood down the line. He said the alliance of SAD-BJP in Punjab was committed to ensure due respect to all religions in the state.
          Earlier in his address, the president of Brahmin Sabha thanked the SAD-BJP government especially the Chief Minister for giving due respect and recognition to the Brahmin community having population of nearly 40 lacs in the state. He said this was a humble effort to express gratitude to Guru Sahib for his great sacrifice to protect Hindus from the repression of Mughals. He said had Guru ji not protected the Hindus by laying down his life, then our community would have been no more as on today.
          In his message, the Jathedar Takht Sri Kesgarh Sahib Giani Tarlochan Singh said that the holy place of Sri Anandpur Sahib was a city of bliss that affords an opportunity to entire mankind to respect the ethos of human values as preached by Sri Guru Teg Bahadur ji  and Guru Gobind Singh ji.
                   Speaking on occasion, the Health & Family Welfare Minister Mr. Madan Mohan Mittal said that the martyrdom of Guru Teg Bahadur ji for the sake of mankind would ever act as a beacon to imbibe the spirit of secularism and communal harmony amongst the youngsters.
          In his address, MLA Ropar Dr. Daljeet Singh Cheema lauded the initiative of Brahmin Sabha to acknowledge the gratitude to Guru Teg Bahadur ji for protecting their community through his glorious sacrifice from the tyranny of the then Mughal Emperor, when they had left all hopes. He also welcomed Mr. Prashar’s another goodwill gesture to launch this journey every year to sensitize the people of his community about this great sacrifice.
          On the occasion, the Chief Minister honoured five members of Brahmin Sabha including its president with the portrait of Sri Guru Teg Bahadur ji and Siropa (rob of honor).
          Later in the presence of Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal, the ‘Rin Utaar Yatan Yatra’ left off Delhi where the members would pay obeisance at Sri Gurdwara Seesh Ganj Sahib tomorrow on Guru ji’s martyrdom.
          Earlier, the Jathedar Takht Sri Kesgarh Sahib Giani Tarlochan Singh performed Ardas ceremony for the success of the Yatra which started from Temple Maisrkhana in Bathinda district on Friday and reached Sri Anandpur Sahib in the evening on the same day.
          The function was attended by CPS Chaudary Nand Lal besides people from different walks of life, senior leaders and party workers of SAD-BJP, Members of SGPC and religious and spiritual personalities.
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SUKHBIR TO WOO NRIs TO INVEST IN STATE

• TO GIVE PRESENTATION ON DEVELOPMENT IN STATE AND FUTURE PLANS
• STATE TO ASSURE COMPLETE SECURITY OF NRIs PROPERTIES
• FINALISES COMPREHENSIVE PACKAGE FOR NRIs
• LEGAL FRAME BEING TONED UP TO ADDRESS PROBLEM OF NRIs
• NRI BHAWAN PLANNED IN MOHALI

CHANDIGARH, NOVEMBER 23: The Punjab Deputy Chief Minister Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal would use the platform of three day NRI Sammellan being organized by Punjab Government from 3rd to 5th January, 2013  to project the record development works initiated by SAD-BJP government during last six years besides sharing vision and plans for next 20 years with Punjabi Diaspora settled in various countries. The Punjab Deputy Chief Minister, who is also Investment Promotion Minister of the state, would also impress upon foreign entrepreneurs to invest in the state that is all set to become most favoured investment of next decade.

            In a combined meeting of Empowered  and Organising Committee for NRI Sammellan that met under Deputy Chief Minister Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal, Mr. Bikram Singh Majithia, NRIs Affairs Minister today explained the preparations being done by various departments for three day sammellan being organized first time in the state. Mr. Badal said that purpose of organizing sammellan for three day was to have an interactive session with the Punjabi Elected Representatives of various countries so that they could explain to us problems being faced by NRIs on the first day of the sammellan and Government accordingly could announce steps taken to redress those problems on the final day of sammellan. He said that the second day has been devoted to NRI Media to understand their problems and to work out the plan that how the Punjab Government can take its message in NRI Media. He said that the first two days of Sammellan would be held at Chandigarh and the concluding day sammellan would be held at Jalandhar.

            Mr. Badal asked IG NRI Affairs Mrs. Gurpreet Deo to finalise a scheme for protection of properties of NRIs, under which NRIs while going abroad would notify the area SHO, who would protect the property from encroachment, illegal alienation and would be responsible for any failure. Mr. Badal asked Home Affair and other concerned department to put up the bills regarding Human Trafficking Act, Compulsory Registration of Marriages of NRIs and amendment in the Revenue Act for getting the property of NRIs vacated from tenancy in the December session of Vidhan Sabha, so that these acts could be notified for well before the NRI Sammellan. It was decided in the meeting that PUDA would allot a site in Mohali for NRI Bhawan and foundation stone of the bhawan would be laid during the NRI Sammellan.

            The dignitaries during the sammellan would also be shown Virasat-E-Khalsa and Banda Bahadur Memorial.

            Prominent amongst those present in the occasion were included Mr. Sukhdev Singh Dhindsa, Member Parliament, Mr. Bikram Singh Majithia, NRIs Affairs Minister, Mr. Sikander Singh Maluka, Education Minister, Mr. Sarwan Singh Phillaur, Tourism Minister, Mr. Ajit Singh Kohar, Transport Minister, Mr. Surjit Singh Rakhra, Rural Development and Panchayats Minister, Mr. Sharanjit Singh Dhillon, PWD Minister, Mr. Sohan Singh Thandal, Mrs. Mahinder Kaur Josh, Mr. Mantar Singh Brar (all CPS), Mr. Mahesh Inder Singh Grewal, Mr. Kamal Sharma (both advisors to CM), Mr. Tota Singh, Former Minister and MLA,  Mr. Pargat Singh, Mr. Gurpartap Singh Wadala and Mr. Surinder Singh Bhulewal Rathan, Mr. Darshan Singh Shivalik (all MLAs), Mr. S.K. Sandhu, Principal Secretary to CM, Mr. P.S. Aujla, Principal Secretary to Deputy CM, Mr. N.S. Kang, Financial Commissioner Revenue, Mr. S.S. Channi, Principal Secretary NRI Affairs, Mr. A.R. Talwar, Principal Secretaries Industries, Mr. R. K. Ghanta, Commissioner NRI Affairs, Mr. Manvesh Singh Sidhu and Mr. Ajay Mahajan (both Special Principal Secretaries to Dy CM), Mr. Priyank Bharti, DC Jalandhar, Mrs. Alak Nanda Dyal, DC Kapurthala and Mr. D.S. Mangat, Director Public Relations.   
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CHIEF MINISTER’S OFFICE, PUNJAB

BADAL EXHORTS PEOPLE TO FOLLOW LEGACY
OF SRI GURU TEG BAHADUR JI

Chandigarh, November 23:
The Punjab Chief Minister Mr Parkash Singh Badal today exhorted the people to follow the high ideals of secularism, humanism and spirit of self sacrifice as preached and practiced by ‘Hind Di Chaadar’ - the Ninth Guru Sri Guru Teg Bahadur Ji.
In his message on the Martyrdom day of Sri Guru Teg Bahadur Ji, the Chief Minister said that Guru Ji laid down his life to protect the right of freedom to worship and preserve human and secular values.  He said: “Guru ji’s supreme sacrifice is unique and un-paralleled in the history of mankind and symbolized the crusade against tyranny and oppression”.   The Bani of Sri Guru Teg Bahadur Ji in Sri Guru Granth Sahib preaches oneness of mankind, universal brotherhood, valour, righteousness and compassion. “Our real homage to the great Guru would be to follow his teachings in true spirit and re-dedicate ourselves to serve society especially the poor and downtrodden with dedication and missionary zeal rising above the petty considerations of caste, colour, creed and religion”, said Mr Badal.
The Chief Minister appealed to the people to observe this sacred occasion by displaying the spirit of harmony and social cohesion to strengthen the unity and integrity of our Country. 
NO.CMO-12/387

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INFORMATION AND PUBLIC RELATIONS DEPARTMENT PUNJAB

PUNJAB CONSTITUTES PUBLICITY COMMITTEE FOR NRI SAMMELAN
CHANDIGARH, NOVEMBER 23
The Punjab Government has constituted a Publicity Committee for the NRI Sammelan under the  chairmanship of Mr Bikram Singh Majithia, NRIs Affairs Minister, Punjab. Three day NRI Sammelan  is being organized by Punjab Government from January  3 to 5 ,2013 at Chandigarh and Jalandhar.
Disclosing this here today a spokesperson of the Punjab Government today said that besides the President, the committee has 6 members including Media Advisor to the Chief Minister of Punjab, Principal Secretary of the NRI Affairs Department, Principal Secretary Information and Public Relations Department, Commissioner NRI Affairs with Director Information and Public Relations Department and Special Principal Secretary to the Deputy Chief Minister of Punjab as Conveners.

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INFORMATION AND PUBLIC RELATIONS DEPARTMENT, PUNJAB
 JASBIR JASSI ENTHRALLED THE AUDIENCE ON PUNJAB DAY AT IITF 2012
CHANDIGARH, NOVEMBER,23:
            The festivity of  ‘PUNJAB DAY’ was the centre of attraction at the Punjab Pavilion in 32nd, India International Trade Fair, 2012 at Pragati Maidan, New Delhi.
          Disclosing this here today a spokesman of the Punjab government said that a Cultural evening on the occasion was organized by the Punjab Small Industries & Export Corporation Limited, Chandigarh, where Jasbir Jassi, a renowned singer from Punjab enthralled the large number of audience with his popular songs and Mrs. Rajbir Kaur of Laughter Challenge, Kept the audience spell Bound with her witty Humour. The Audience swayed with the pulsating rythem of the folklore. 
The chief Guests present on the occasion were Mr. Anil Joshi, Industries & Commerce Minister, Punjab, Mr. N.K Sharma, Chief parliamentary Secretary department of Industries & Commerce, Punjab was the guest of Honour. The other eminent guests present were Mr. Vikas Pratap, IAS Secretary and Director of Industries, Punjab, and Mr. M.P. Arora, IAS, Managing Director, PSIEC Ltd., Chandigarh. The above dignitaries also took a round of Punjab Pavilion before the cultural evening.
NO;PR/12/1067

Information & Public Relations Department, Punjab

Maths Competition for 6TH TO 8TH CLASS students to BEGIN ON November 30-Maluka

Chandigarh, November 23:
         
The Punjab Government has decided to conduct Maths competition for the students of 6th to 8th class of Government Schools and upper primary schools. The Competition would begin from 30 November across the State.
          Disclosing this here today the Education Minister Mr. Sikander Singh Maluka said that the motive behind this Maths competition is to inculcate Mathematical skills among the students for daily use.  He said that competition at the Block level would commenced on 30th November whereas at the district level the competition would begin at December 18. The competition would be conducted in four stages. Students would be encouraged by conferring Ist, 2nd and 3rd prize at the block level and cash prize of Rs. 900, 600 and 300 would be given to the winning team respectively. He said that at the district level the team bagging 1st, 2nd and 3rd prize would be awarded with the cash prize of Rs. 5100, 3100 and 2100.
          He also said that the competition would be based on the syllabus of class 6th, 7th and 8th and special stress would be given on the Tables and their daily uses and mathematical formulas.
Information and Public Relations Department Punjab

OPEN AUCTION FOR BUS STAND
FEE SCHEDULEDON DEC 5

Chandigarh, November 23,
 The PEPSU Road Transport Corporation (PRTC) would organized an open auction for the collection of stand fee for Phagwara and Bathinda bus stands on December 5, 2012 at 11 AM.
The spokesman of PRTC informed here today that an open auction would be held at PRTC head office, Nabha road Patiala. He also said that interested bidders should deposit Rs. 50,000 as earnest money which would be retuned to the unsuccessful bidders. Any further detail about the auction could be obtained from the office of the General Manager (O) on any working day, said the spokesman.
No. PR 2012/1063
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INFORMATION & PUBLIC RELATIONS DEPARTMENT, PUNJAB

PUNJAB ANNOUNCES ROTATIONAL IRRIGATION PROGRAMME FROM NOV 24 TO DECEMBER 1

CHANDIGARH, NOVEMBER, 23:
The Irrigation Department, Punjab has announced the Rotational Programme for irrigation for the Rabbi Season through Canal water from 24-11-2012 to 01-12-2012. The channels and branches off-taking from Ropar Head Works, 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 direct distributaries of BML, in Group ‘A’, being in the first preference, would run to their indent. Balance water supplies available, would be utilized in Ghaggar Branch and Patiala Minor of Group ‘B’ respectively.
The spokesman further said that Punjab channels and Branches off-taking from Harike and Ferozpur Head Works, all the direct Distributaries of Sirhind Feeder in Group ‘A’ being in the first preference, would run to their indent. Balance water supplies available, would be utilized in Abohar Branch off-taking from Sirhind Feeder and its distributaries/minors, in Group ‘B’.
          The spokesman also said that the in the Upper Bari Doab Canal system, Sabhroan Branch with its distributaries, being in the 1st preference, would run to their indent. Balance water supplies available, would be utilized in Kasur Branch Lower, Main Branch Lower and Lahore Branch with their distributaries, respectively.
No. PR/12/ v®{y
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INFORMATION & PUBLIC RELATIONS DEPARTMENT, PUNJAB

13175878 TONES PADDY PROCURED IN PUNJAB

Chandigarh, November 23:
          Paddy Procurement is on full swing in Punjab. Government agencies and private millers procured more than 13175878 tones of paddy till last evening. The State Government has set up more than 1770 procurement centers and activated its total machinery to ensure smooth procurement of paddy.
 The spokesman of the Punjab government said that Out of total procurement of 13175878 tones of paddy in all the procurement centers of Punjab, Government agencies procured 12563811 tones of paddy till date whereas private traders procured 612067 tones of paddy. Till November 22, PUNGRAIN procured 3713551 tones (29.6%), MARKFED procured 2856549 tones (22.7%). whereas PUNSUP had procured 2870881 tones (22.9%) PSWC procured 1255657 tones (10.0%) whereas PAFC was able to procure 1297391 tones (10.3%) of paddy. The Central Government agency FCI had  been able to procure 569782 tones (4.5%). 
          The spokesman added that District Ludhiana with 1561559 tones of procurement was leading in procurement operations whereas District Sangrur with 1529105 tones of procurement was at second slot and district Patiala with 1230755 tones of procurement ranked at third position.       
 PR-12/1065

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SAP OF SUGARCANE FIXED AT RS 250 PER QUINTAL FOR 2012-13

Chandigarh, November 22-
The Punjab Government today fixed the State Agreed Price (SAP) of advanced, medium and late variety of Sugarcane at Rs 250, Rs 240 and Rs 235 per quintal respectively for the crushing season of 2012-13.
A decision to this effect was taken in a meeting of Sugarcane Control Board chaired by the Punjab Chief Minister Mr Parkash Singh Badal here at Chief Minister’s residence this evening. It may be recalled that the state government had already fixed the SAP of advanced, medium and late variety of Sugarcane at Rs.230, Rs.225 and
Rs.220 per quintal for the crushing season of 2011-12.
Prominent amongst others who were present in the meeting included Chief Parliamentary Secretary Mr GS Babbehali, Financial Commissioner Development Mr GS Sandhu, Principal Secretary to the Chief Minister Mr SK Sandhu, Principal Secretary Finance Mr Satish Chandra, Financial Commissioner Co-operation Mr Viswajeet Khanna, Chairman Sugarfed Mr Sukhbir Singh Wahla, Director Agriculture Mr Mangal Singh Sandhu and Cane Commissioner Mr Ranjit Singh.
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GAS CYLINDERS MORE SUITABLE FOR THE PICS OF DR.MANMOHAN SINGH, SONIA AND RAHUL-MAJITHIA
 
ASKS YOUTH CONGRESS TO BRING SCHEMES AND BENEFITS FOR PUNJAB IDENTICAL TO RAI BARELI, AMETHI

CHANDIGARH, NOVEMBER 22:  Punjab Revenue Minister Mr Bikram Singh Majithia today termed  the act of Punjab Youth Congress activists to replace the photos of Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal from the ‘108 Ambulances’ in the state as "kiddish and immature”.
In a statement issued here Mr Majithia said that  if Punjab Youth Congress was so keen to put photos of Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh, UPA Chairperson Mrs. Sonia Gandhi and Congress General Secretary Rahul Gandhi anywhere, they should rather put them on Gas Cylinders, as they were more suitable for them. He said that by creating a political tamasha  in the State, the Congress was merely creating hurdles in the smooth functioning and development of the state.  Mr. Majithia said that he could aptly understand the compulsions behind these Congressmen issuing provocative and shrieking statements to deflect people’s attention from the scams of the Congress party. He said that this was a reflection of the growing frustration amongst the Congressmen, who were rejected by the people of Punjab and were already out of power because of their anti-Punjab stand.
Lashing out at PYC for its cheap publicity stunt, Mr. Majithia said that the PYC should not forget that the wise electorate of Punjab had repeated the SAD-BJP government owing to its pro Punjab policies and massive development undertaken in the state. Lauding the role of Punjab Government to bring and implement the 108 Ambulance services successfully and in true spirit, Mr. Majithia said that PYC should rather choose Gas Cylinders for their leaders’ images as the whole Nation is forced to pay three times hike in its price under the rule of UPA-II.
            Lashing out at Congress led UPA Government for constantly ignoring the interests of Punjab by adopting discriminatory and biased attitude; Mr. Majithia dared Punjab Youth Congress to press its high command to treat Punjab equal to Rai Bareli and Amethi. He said that if Punjab is given its due than we would gladly paste the pictures of not only the Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh but also the leaders of Punjab Youth Congress. The Minister said that they have no objection of putting up the photos of even Youth Congress leaders provided they bring sufficient funds for Punjab from UPA Government and increase the state’s share in Central grants to 50 percent of revenue collected from the states, which is now only 29 percent and Punjab is getting only 1.32 percent.
            Warning the leaders of PYC not to come with cheap publicity stunts, Mr. Majithia said that YAD would not tolerate such types of activities. He said that youth congress should also keep it in mind that they had sufficient time during the regime of Captain Amarinder Singh from 2002-07 for the development initiatives but nothing goes to their credit,which they could claim.
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SUKHBIR GIVE FINAL TOUCHES TO THE LUDHIANA METRO PROJECT REPORT
·       Rs. 9840 CRORE METRO PROJECT WOULD HAVE 27 STATIONS
 Chandigarh, November 22:
Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal, Deputy Chief Minister, Punjab today gave final touches to the Project Report of Rs. 9840 crore ambitious project of Ludhiana Metro, so that it could be submitted to Union Government for final approval.
          Accompanied by Mr. Chunni Lal Bhagat, Local Bodies Minister and Mr. Bikram Singh Majithia, Revenue Minister, Mr. Badal held a high level meeting in which Chief Secretary Mr. Rakesh Singh, Principal Secretary Local Bodies Mr. Suresh Kumar, Principal Secretary Finance Mr. Satish Chandra, Chairman Punjab Governance Reforms Commission Dr. Pramod Kumar and Chairman Right To Service Act Commission Mr. S.C. Aggarwal participated. Mr. Badal also approved the financial model for the Ludhiana Metro so that there should be least financial burden on people of Punjab.
Mr. Badal also approved the Metro Alignment from Aayali Chowk to BBMB Power Chowk that would have 15.70 KM out of which 12.152 would be elevated and 3.617 would be underground. It would have 11 elevated and 3 underground stations. Similarly, the alignment for Corridor-2 from Gill Village to Rahon Road was also finalized that would have 13.626 KM long with 4.886 elevated track and 8.740 would be underground track. Mr. Badal directed that there should be minimum possible displacement of people due to the metro project and Metro Authority can go for underground lines instead of displacing the people, it may raise the price of project. 
It was decided in the meeting that 11.70 acre of land would be required for alignment, station and receiving substation in Corridor-1 and 19.05 acre for Corridor-2. The land requirement for depots would be 65 acres for Baddowal Depot and 52 acres for Gill Village Depot. Mr. Badal was also finalized the relief and resettlement policy for the project.
Mr. Badal issued directions for time bound completion of this project asked the Local Government Department for Metro tracks in other corporation cities of the Punjab so that immediately after completion of Ludhiana Metro, the work other metro project could be initiated. It was decided that Ludhiana Metro be covered under Delhi Metro Railway (Operation and Maintenance Act, 2002 and other legal framework controlling Delhi Metro).
Prominent amongst those present in the meeting Mr. Manvesh Singh Sidhu and Mr. Ajay Kumar Mahajan, Special Secretary to Deputy CM, Mr. Ashok Kumar Gupta, Secretary Local Bodies and other senior officers of various departments. 

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PUNJAB TO ACQUIRE AND DEVELOP 5250 ACRES OF LAND IN MULANPUR
PUNJAB APPROVES FINANCIAL DISTRICT PLAN AT CITY CENTRE MOHALI
APPROVES ALLOTMENT 2.06 ACRES TO NIPCCD
CHANDIGARH, NOVEMBER 22:

The Punjab Government has approved to acquire 5250 acres of land in Mulanpur area under land pooling scheme to ensure its development in an integrated manner. 
Disclosing this here today a spokesperson of the CMO said that a decision to this effect was taken during 14th meeting of Greater Mohali Area Development Authority under the Chairmanship of Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal here at CMO this afternoon. It was informed in the meeting that at present the private land promoters were developing nearly 1275 acres of land in a haphazard manner contrary to the approved Mulanpur Master plan of the GAMADA thereby flouting the requisite norms to ensure grid roads and city level infrastructure.
The authority also approved to acquire 162 acres of land under land pooling scheme in addition to 326 acres of already acquired land for the extension of Medicity phase II and Eco-city Phase II as per the Mulanpur Master Plan.
In another significant decision the Chief Minister also approved to setup a ‘Financial District complex’ over an area of 34.27 acres in the City Centre, Sector 62, Mohali to facilitate all financial institutions like Banks, Stock Market and Insurance Companies to establish their offices.
The authority further approved to soon finalise the policy for the auction of various commercial and residential vacant sites in the urban area of Mohali.  It was also decided in the meeting to allot 2.06 acres of land to the National Institute of Public Cooperation and Child Development (NIPCCD), New Delhi for the establishment of their Regional Centre in Sector 79, Mohali free of cost under CDS scheme. 
Prominent amongst others who were present in the meeting included Chief Secretary Mr. Rakesh Singh, Principal Secretary Local Government Mr. Suresh Kumar, Principal Secretary to Chief Minister and Housing & Urban Development Mr. SK Sandhu, Principal Secretaries to Chief Minister Mr. Gaggandip Singh Brar Secretary Expenditure Mr. Jaspal Singh, Director Local Govt. Mr. AK Sinha and ACA GMADA Mr. Manjit Singh.
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 CABINET APPROVES ‘NEW AND RENEWABLE SOURCES OF ENERGY (NRSE) POLICY- 2012’
POLICY AIMED AT GENERATING 400 MW POWER BY 2017
GIVES NOD TO CREATE A LAND POOL OF GOVERNMENT/PANCHAYAT FOR THE PURPOSE OF SETTING UP OF ‘TOURISM DESTINATION’ AT LUDHIANA
OWNERSHIP OF 33 MARKETS (MANDIS) OF THE ERSTWHILE PEPSU STATE TO BE TRANSFERRED TO THE RESPECTIVE MUNICIPAL COMMITTEES
SERVICES OF 19 LAW OFFICERS IN PUNJAB POLICE TO BE REGULARISED
 SLASHES RATE OF VAT ON ATF TO BOOST CIVIL AVIATION AND TOURISM SECTOR

CHANDIGARH NOVEMBER 22:
The Punjab Cabinet today approved the enactment of ‘New and Renewable Sources of energy (NRSE) Policy- 2012’, to develop and promote new and renewable sources of energy.
            A decision to this effect was taken by the Cabinet in its meeting held at CMO under the Chairmanship of Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal, this morning.
            Disclosing this here today a spokesperson of the Chief Minister’s Office said that the policy was aimed at maximizing and improving the share of new and renewable sources of energy to 10% of the total installed power capacity of the state by the year 2020 besides promoting renewable energy initiatives for meeting energy/lighting needs. The policy would also focus on creating conducive conditions to woo private sector investments in NRSE projects along with broader participation by public by giving a slew of incentives in terms of 100% electricity duty, exemption from VAT and Entry Tax on the equipment, machinery for the setting up of NRSE Power plants, exemption of Stamp Duty and Registration Fee, exemption of Change of Land Use (CLU) fee, External Development Charges (EDC) or other charges etc. The entrepreneurs keen in setting up NRSE projects would be provided with the facility of single window through the Punjab Energy Development Agency (PEDA)- the nodal agency for implementation of such projects, to ensure requisite clearances expeditiously.
Under the policy the interested entrepreneurs and investors would be eligible for all benefits/incentives under Mega Projects and Industrial Policy. The policy would focus to generate nearly 400 MW Power through Non Conventional and Renewable sources of energy in the state by year 2017. The new policy would also be instrumental in bridging the gap between the demand and supply of Power besides ensuring quality power to the consumers at affordable rates. The thrust area of NRSE would include setting up of Small and mini/micro hydro plants, Biomass including co-generation, Solar Photovoltaic, Solar Thermal, urban municipal and industrial solid/liquid wastes, Solar power generation and innovative technology based wind turbines.
The Cabinet also approved to create a land pool of Government/Panchayat for the purpose of setting up of a ‘Tourism Destination’ in area comprising of villages Haider Nagar, Garcha, Selkiana, Sekhuwal, Garhi, Machian Kalan, Mattewara and other surrounding areas of Ludhiana district besides consolidating this land under the Public Works Department (B&R). The Punjab Infra Structure Development Board (PIDB) would appoint Public Works Department (B&R) as the nodal agency to develop this project on Public Private Partnership (PPP) or any other suitable mode. For this purpose a committee has been constituted for the identification, consolidation and exchange (wherever applicable) of Government/Panchayat land and other suitable land so identified for the project in the area.  
In a major decision the Cabinet approved to transfer the ownership of 33 markets (mandis) of the erstwhile PEPSU state to the respective Municipal Committees.  These markets falling within the jurisdiction and administrative control of the concerned Municipal Committees would be transferred to them on the ‘as and where is basis’. This would increase the financial resources of the Municipal Committees which in turn would be used for creation of better urban infrastructure in the cities.
            The Cabinet also approved the regularization of 19 Law Officers in the Punjab Police from the date of completion of three years services as Law Officer.  These officers were appointed on contract basis in 2009 to impart legal training to the officers/employees within and outside the state at Maharaja Ranjit Singh Punjab Police Academy Phillaur and Police Recruitment Training Center Jahan Kehlan.             
            In another significant decision, aimed at ensuring the timely conduct of Punjab Civil Service (Executive Branch) and allied services examination by the Punjab Public Service Commission, the Cabinet gave ex-post facto approval to the amendment made in the Punjab State Civil Services appointment and examination rules, 2009 by which the syllabus and procedure could be modified by the PPSC after the approval of the state government.
In a bid to boost the civil aviation industry and tourism in the state besides ensuring affordable and comfortable travel to the passengers, the Cabinet also gave approval to amend the Schedule “B” of the Punjab VAT Act, 2005 thereby slashing the rate of VAT to 5.5% (plus 10% surcharge) on the Aviation Turbine Fuel (ATF) supplied to the scheduled and non-scheduled airlines operating at Ludhiana, Amritsar, Bathinda and Pathankot airports in the state. This would make these airports an attractive destination.    
The Cabinet also gave nod to delete clause 20 of Auction notification regarding the Mines of gravel and sand in the state. This auction process would take place through e-auction and no mine would be sub divided into blocks for the purpose of Mining and auctioning. The Cabinet also approved a draft bill to be presented in the next Punjab Vidhan Sabha session in December 2012, to amend section 5 (5) of the Punjab Village common land (Regulation) Act 1961 by inserting a clause “provided that the condition of retaining fifty percent of the total cultivable land vested or deemed to have been vested in the Panchayat shall not be applicable, when such land is disposed by way of sale, gift or exchange to any of the Department of the state Government or the Board or the Corporation owned or controlled by the state government”. 
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PUNJAB TO ENHANCE 100 MBBS SEATS IN EACH MEDICAL COLLEGE AT PATIALA AND AMRITSARRS. 32 CRORE APPROVES FOR THE PURCHASE OF EQUIPMENT FOR CANCER DIAGNOSTIC TREATMENT CENTRE AT BATHINDAHAEMOPHILIC DIAGNOSTIC CENTRES TO BE SETUP IN ALL GOVERNMENT MEDICAL COLLEGESAPPROVES TO SETUP ETHICAL COMMITTEE TO PROMOTE MEDICAL RESEARCH

CHANDIGARH NOVEMBER 22:
The Punjab Government would enhance 100 seats of MBBS in each Government Medical College at Patiala and Amritsar from next year.
A decision to this effect was taken by Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal in the 30th meeting of Governing Body of Punjab Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS), Society Jalandhar held under his chairmanship here today at CMO. The board also gave nod to increase intake of 47 seats in Post graduation courses at Medical College Patiala.
In another significant decision, the board has approval to spend Rs. 32 crore for the purchase of equipment for upcoming Rs. 60 crore State-of-the-art Cancer Diagnostic Treatment Centre at Bathinda, besides setting up of a Hemophilic Diagnostic Centre at a cost of Rs. 1.2 crore at Patiala. Mr. Badal asked the Medical Education & Research Department to setup similar Hemophilic Diagnostic Centre at other Government Medical and Dental Colleges also. The Chief Minister also directed the concerned authorities to expedite the construction work of the Rs. 5 crore Drug  De-Addiction Centre at Patiala.
Mr. Badal also approved to constitute an Ethical Committee to promote research in all the Government Medical and Dental Colleges of the state whereas Rs. 5 crore has been approved for this.
While reviewing the status of the various approved ongoing projects in Government Medical Colleges of the state, Mr. Badal asked to prepare a comprehensive plan for the up-gradation and strengthening of Radiotherapy unit in Government Medical College Amritsar. It was informed in the meeting that 50-bedded Drug De-Addiction Centres at Government College Amritsar and Baba Farid University of Health Sciences Faridkot had already been completed.
Prominent amongst those who were present in the meeting included Medical Education and Research Minister Mr. Chunni Lal Bhagat, Chief Parliamentary Secretary Mrs. Mohinder Kaur Josh, Advocate General Punjab Mr. Ashok Aggarwal, Principal Secretary to the CM Mr. SK Sandhu, Principal Secretary Finance Mr. Satish Chandra, Special Principal Secretary to the Chief Minister Mr. KJS Cheema, Secretary Medical Education Mrs. Anjali Bhawara, Technical Advisor General (Retd.) BS Dhaliwal, Director Medical Education and Research Dr. AS Thind, Director PIMS Dr. SK Sikri, Vice Chancellor Baba Farid University of Health Sciences Dr. SS Gill besides eminent doctors Prof. KS Chugh, Prof. SBS Maan, Dr. SPS Grewal and other senior officers of the Punjab Government.
No. CMO-12/382
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PUNJAB TO HAVE ANOTHER DRY PORT AT KILA RAIPUR
TO BE DEVELOPED AS JOINT VENTURE BETWEEN CONCOR AND CONWARE OVER AN AREA OF 150 ACRES AT A COST OF RS 500 CRORE
TO LINK PUNJAB WITH THE EASTERN AND WESTERN RAILWAY FREIGHT CORRIDOR
DEPUTY CM FOR RECOVERY OF GOVERNMENT’S STAKE IN JOINT VENTURES BY MARCH 2013
Chandigarh, November 22-
            In a bid to boost the industrialization, trade and commercial activity in the state, Punjab government would soon set up a Dry Port near Kila Raipur in district Ludhiana to link it with the Eastern and Western Railway Freight corridor.
            A decision to this effect was taken in the 92nd meeting of the Project Approval Board held under the Chairmanship of Punjab Chief Minister Mr Parkash Singh Badal here at CMO, thIs morning.
            Disclosing this here today a spokesperson of the Chief Minister’s office said that the Dry Port would be a joint venture of Punjab State Container and Warehousing Corporation Limited (CONWARE) and Container Corporation of India Limited (CONCOR)- a NAVRATNA Public Sector undertaking of Ministry of Railways. This Dry Port to be constructed over an area of 150 acres would come up at a cost of nearly Rs 500 crore and would be made operational by March 2015. This project assumes enormous significance as it would help in catering to the futuristic commercial needs of region especially in the wake of the Most Favored Nation (MFN) status granted to India by Pakistan, necessitating availability of such integrated logistic hub.
The Dry Port would also be instrumental in harnessing the optimum potential of development of dedicated freight corridors which would effectively connect Ludhiana and the state to all the gateway ports in the country in the west and the iron ore/coal rich mineral belt in the east. The upcoming facility of Double Stack Containers at Dry Port would immensely benefit the local industry to cut down their transportation costs by 33%. It may be recalled that at present the available capacity of Integrated Container Depot (ICD) at Sahnewal, which is the most active in the state, was over utilized resulting in deficiency of about 1 lakh containers which were being transported by road.   
Taking part in the deliberations the Punjab Deputy Chief Minister Mr Sukhbir Singh Badal categorically said that the state Government’s stake through the Punjab State Industrial Development Corporation (PSIDC), Punjab Finance Corporation (PFC) and Punjab Agro Industry Corporation (PAIC) should be recovered by engaging some renowned Asset Reconstruction Companies positively by March 31, 2013. The Deputy Chief Minister also directed the Industries and Commerce department to ensure that any project proposal submitted by the prospective entrepreneurs must be put up before the Project Approval Board within a week of its submission or in the meeting of the Board to be convened regularly after every three months, whichever is earlier.
In the meeting it was also decided that for ensuring best possible return on investment made by the state government in the form of 15.2% stake of Punjab Infotech in Orient Craft Fashion Technologies Limited (earlier known as Fujiitsu India Telecom Limited) the Chief Secretary along with Principal Secretary Industries and Commerce and Principal Secretary IT would take a meeting with the company to work out modalities for a specific proposal.
Deliberating on the issue of Punjab Venture Capital Limited (PVCL) fund it was decided that the Punjab Infotech and Small Industries Development Bank of India (SIDBI) would work out modalities to dissolve the Trust and initiate winding up proceedings of PVCL and Punjab Venture Investors Trust Limited (PVITL).
It was also decided in the meeting to go ahead with the 100% disinvestment of two Multi Fruit and vegetable processing plants of Punjab Agro Juices Limited at Hoshiarpur and Abohar by inviting the key players in the field of Food Processing to make these plants operational to its full capacity so as to enable the Kinnow growers to get better prices of their produce through value addition.
Prominent amongst those present in the meeting included Cabinet Ministers Mr Anil Joshi and Mr Parminder Singh Dhindsa, Chief Secretary Mr Rakesh Singh, Financial Commissioner Development Mr GS Sandhu, Principal Secretary to the Chief Minister Mr SK Sandhu, Principal Secretary Finance, Planning and Disinvestment Mr Satish Chandra, Secretary cum Director Industries and Commerce Mr Vikas Partap, MD Punjab Agro Industries Corporation Mr Kirandeep Singh Bhullar and MD CONWARE Mr AS Bains.
No.CMO-12/281
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HDFC BANK CHIEF CALLS ON SUKHBIR-OFFERS TO LAUNCH BPL SELF EMPLOYMENT SCHEME
Chandigarh, November 22:

 Dr. Aditya Puri, Managing Director HDFC Bank today called on Punjab Deputy Chief Minister Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal and assured total support of bank in execution of all development projects of the state besides offering a composite package for upliftment of BPL families.
Calling on Deputy Chief Minister, Mr. Aditya Puri informed that HDFC Bank has chalked out a plan for the support of BPL families would be offered a package under which right from planning of self employment venture, setting of such venture, procurement of raw material for the venture upto arranging fruitful marketing of their end products, bank besides providing working capital support, would also become partner in the progress of that venture. He said that under the infrastructure development plan the bank was willing to support all infrastructure projects being executed in the state. He said that Punjab was the largest and biggest growing economy of the country and HDFC bank wants to become partner in the progress in the state.
Prominent amongst those who were present in the meeting included Mr. P.S. Aujla, Principal Secretary to Deputy Chief Minister, Mr. Manvesh Singh Sidhu & Mr. Ajay Kumar Mahajan, both Special Principal Secretaries to Deputy Chief Minister. From the Bank side Mr. Gobind Pandey and Mr. Iqbal Singh Laali, both regional heads accompanied Mr. Puri.
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ONE IPS AND ONE PPS OFFICERS TRANSFERRED
Chandigarh, November,22:
          The Punjab Government today transferred one IPS and one PPS officer  in the state with immediate effect.  
          Disclosing this here today a spokesman of the Punjab Government said that Mr.Kaustubh Sharma,IPS has been transferd and posted as Assistant Inspector General of Police/Personal-2, CPO, punjab, Chandigarh.
          He said that Mr. Ashwani Kapoor, PPS has been transferd and posted as Assistant Inspector General of Police/Intelligent Wing, Punjab, Chandigarh.

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 Minimum Wages Enhanced-Jayani
Chandigarh, November 22:
          Punjab Government has revised the minimum rates of wages in the state. These revised rates would come into force with effect from 1st September 2012. This was disclosed here by Mr Surjit Kumar Jayani, Forest and Labour Minister Punjab.
          The Minister further said that the minimum wages of unskilled worker would be Rs.5200 now. Semi skilled worker now get Rs. 5980, skilled worker Rs. 6877, highly skilled 7909, staff category A Rs. 10370, Staff category B Rs. 8700, Staff category C Rs. 7200, staff category D Rs. 6000.
          Earlier minimum wages of unskilled worker was Rs. 4568, semi-skilled worker Rs. 4913, skilled worker Rs. 5297 and highly skilled worker Rs 5743. These wages are for all employment except employment sports goods, industry, employment in tanneries and leather manufactures, employment in brick kiln industry employment and garments manufacturers.
          Minimum wages of staff categories from A to D mentioned above shall be applicable only to scheduled employments under the Govt. of Punjab, local authority and the boards, corporations or any agency under the control of the Government of Punjab in respect of the staff employed through outsourcing or employed. Casually or on daily wages.
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MALUKA SUSPENDS A CLERK IN OFFICE OF DEO NAWANSHAHR

Chandigarh, November 22: The Punjab Education Minister Mr. Sikander Singh Maluka today recommended the suspension of Pawanjit Singh, a clerk in office of District Education Officer, Nawanshahr after receiving 14 affidavits leveling serious allegations of corruption against him.
Directing Director Administration in the office of DPI, Secondary to submit a complete report within 15 days in this matter, the Education Minister made the Headquarter of suspended employee in the office of circle education officer, Jalandhar.
Mr. Maluka categorically said that there was zero tolerance for corruption in the Education department and reiterated his commitment to ensure total transparency at every level in the department. He exhorted the employees as well as the common people to bring in his notice any incident of corruption so that erring officials should be punished.

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RECOMMENDATIONS SOUGHT FOR FILLING 19 POSTS THROUGH DEPUTATION OR TRANSFER IN DIRECTOR GOVERNANCE REFORMS’ DEPARTMENT
 
Chandigarh, November 22: The Punjab government today sought recommendations from different departments to fill 19 posts of A, B & C Groups in newly created Director Governance Reforms’ department through deputation or transfer.
Disclosing this here today, a spokesman of Punjab government said that the state government has decided to fill the posts of Additional Director (1), Senior System Manager (1), Assistant Manager (2), Deputy Director (1), Superintendent (1), Technical Assistant (2), Senior Assistant (3) and Clerk-cum-Data Entry Operator (8) through deputation or transfer from other government departments till the regular appointments were being made for the above mentioned department.
The spokesman informed that while recommending the names for above mentioned posts, the concerned department should send the names, details along with ACRs of last five years of such officers/employees within next three weeks. The spokesman said that while recommending the name of any officer/employee it should be ensured that there was no vigilance or departmental inquiry pending against him.
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DEPUTATION OF MARRIAGE PALACES
ASSOCIATION CALLED ON PHILLAUR

Chandigarh November 22: 

A deputation of the Punjab Marriage Palace Association today called on Mr. Sarwan Singh Phillaur, Tourism and Cultural Affairs Minister Punjab and apprised him of their demands in the light of the a new policy regarding the setting up of new marriage palaces and regularizing the existing marriage palaces in the state being formulated by the Punjab Government.
          The Minister assured the deputation that their demands would be sympathetically considered in consultation with the Chief Minister Punjab S. Parkash Singh Badal.
Expressing concern over certain issues, the deputation stressed on the need to do away with the discrimination taken place while framing the new policy where big cities have been targeted directly. According to the new policy much relaxation has been given to Mohali area where as cities like Ludhiana, Jalandhar and Amritsar have not been compensated in the same ratio. They demanded the uniformity in the norms. Referring to the recovery of the charges applicable, it was urged that the charges, if any, must be collected from the marriage palaces made after the date of notification and not with any retrospective effect. Further the existing marriage palaces must be given some relief by reducing the charges imposed on them. The charges applicable should be recovered in 6 half yearly installments as decided earlier in the month of October. The issues regarding mandatory parking space, imposing of EDC, CLU, license fee, kitchen and sewer disposal norms, same fee for all marriage palaces and the annual inspections of the marriage palaces were also discussed.

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 Chandigarh, November 22 :         
Paddy Procurement is on full swing in Punjab. Government agencies and private millers procured more than 13136643  tones of paddy till last evening. The State Government has set up more than 1770 procurement centers and activated its total machinery to ensure smooth procurement of paddy. The spokesman of the Punjab government said that Out of total procurement of 13136643  tones of paddy in all the procurement centers of Punjab, Government agencies procured  12525311 tones of paddy till date whereas private traders procured 611332 tones of paddy. Till November 21, PUNGRAIN procured 3700075  tones (29.5%), MARKFED procured 2844538  tones (22.7%). whereas PUNSUP had procured 2863385 tones (22.9%) PSWC procured 1254541 tones (10.0%) whereas PAFC was able to procure 1295137 tones (10.3%) of paddy.The Central Government agency FCI had been able to procure 567635 tones (4.5%).         
 The spokesman added that District Ludhiana with 1558498 tones of procurement was leading in procurement operations whereas District Sangrur  with 1520994  tones of procurement was at second slot and district Patiala with 1223907  tones of procurement ranked at third position.        PR-12/1056
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PRIVATE BANKS TO FINANCE WEAKER SECTIONS: DHINDSA
·        HDFC ASSURES FINANCE MINISTER
·        COMPLETE BUSINESS MODEL BE PREPARED TO IMPART TRAINING AND FINANCE FOR SELF-EMPLOYMENT
CHANDIGARH, NOVEMBER 22:    With the cooperation of Punjab Government, HDFC bank has developed a unique business model to uplift the economically weaker sections by facilitating them for self-employment. This was today disclosed by Mr. Parminder Singh Dhindsa, Finance Minister, Punjab after a high level meeting with the senior officers of the HDFC Bank here.
          Mr. Dhindsa said that the Punjab Government has undertaken several steps to improve the economic status of the weaker section through its various schemes. He said that the Punjab Government too applauds unique plan of private banks to finance the weaker section for self-employment. He appealed to all private banks to start new plans and schemes to boost education and agriculture sectors.
           He said that a meeting with the senior officials of HDFC Bank. Mr. Aditiya Puri, MD, Mr. Govind Pandey, Regional Head and Mr. Iqbal Singh, Circul Head regarding upliftment of weaker sections of the society.
          Finance Minister said that during the meeting the need for funding the weaker sections on priority was discussed at length, which would enable the weaker sections to establish their own business. He said that it was also discussed that under comprehensive business model schemes and through micro financing, weaker sections could be extended the credit facility, besides imparting training for self-employment on lesser interest rate and marketing of their produce. Finance Minister said that the bank officers have assured to provide employment to 70,000 families within three years.
          Mr. Dhindsa said that the bank has also assured that they would depute their Business Representative in every village, who would offer the mobile banking service for debit and credit besides providing other facilities. He further said that the bank officers have expressed their willingness to cooperate with the Punjab Government in all fields .
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LAKHOWAL CLARIFIES
CHANDIGARH, NOVEMBER 22:
          Taking a serious note over a statement published in a section of press, the Chairman, Punjab Mandi Board and President Bharti Kisan Union, Mr. Ajmer Singh Lakhowal today said that his statement on the FDI retail business had been misquoted and distorted by a section of press. 
          In a statement issued here today, Mr. Lakhowal clarified that he was of the view that FDI could be beneficial for the farmers but the UPA government at the centre before implementing it must seek consensus of all political parties over this sensitive issue of great importance. Mr. Lakhowal categorically said that he had never mentioned anywhere that Punjab Government should have consensus of all political parties as mentioned in a section of press.
          Appreciating the concern of Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal for the welfare of peasantry in the state, Mr. Lakhowal said that Mr. Badal was relentlessly working day and night for improving the financial conditions of the farmers and his efforts for supplementing their income through bringing much needed diversification in the state were really commendable. He further said that under Mr. Badal’s stewardship Punjab State Agricultural Marketing Board was also marching ahead to establish vegetables and fruits marketing network of international standards. To motivate more and more farmers for the cultivation of vegetables and fruits, first ever International Conference on “Wholesale Markets: Global Opportunities and Innovations” had been organized recently by the Punjab State Agricultural Marketing Board was the biggest example of it, added Mr. Lakhowal.

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PUNJAB CM CALLS ON JAYANTHI NATARAJAN
NATARAJAN GIVES NOD TO SHIFT QUARRIES OF AN AREA LESS THAN 5 HECTARES INTO CATEGORY B-2
·        EXCAVATION OF BRICK EARTH AND ORDINARY EARTH OVER AN AREA LESS THAN 5 HECTARE WOULD AUTOMATICALLY FALL IN CATEGORY B-2
·        BADAL SEEKS EARLY CLEARANCE OF DPRS OF 17 TOWNS UNDER NRCP

New Delhi, November 21
On the persuasion of the Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal, the Union Minister of State Environment & Forests Mrs. Jayanthi Natarajan today agreed to shift the minor mineral projects of an area less than 5 hectares into the category B-2 instead of B-1, where no Environment Impact Assessment (EIA) would be required.
A decision to this effect was taken by Mrs. Natarajan in a meeting with the Chief Minister, who called on the Union Minister in her office here this afternoon to apprise her about the scarcity of construction material in the state due to stringent norms of EIA. Consequent upon this decision, excavation of brick earth by the brick kiln owners along with ordinary earth of an area less than 5 hectare would automatically fall in category B-2.

The Chief Minister appreciated the concern shown by Mrs. Natarajan in resolving the long pending issue of environmental clearances which would go a long way in mitigating the hardships being faced by the people besides giving a boost to the development activity in the state, which was severely hit due to shortage of construction material.
Seeking few amendments to be incorporated in the EIA Notification, 2006 to ease out the situation, the Chief Minister suggested that the State Environmental Impact Assessment Authority (SEIAA) be authorized to grant the environmental clearances of the minor mineral projects irrespective of its area by amending the notification, 2006. Mr. Badal also impressed upon the Union Minister that all the minor mineral projects comprising an area less than 5 hectare be considered in the B-2 category projects so that their environmental clearances could be obtained in minimum possible time schedule.
It may be recalled that at present such projects falls in category B-1 which takes minimum 210 days to seek environmental clearance as per EIA Notification 2006. Likewise, Mr. Badal also sought an exemption from obtaining environmental clearance for minor mineral projects of ordinary earth and brick earth, wherein depth of mining does not exceed 6 feet. Besides, the general condition appended to the schedule of the EIA Notification, 2006 that if the mine is located within 10 Km from the interstate and international boundaries, such distance be reduced to 1 Km to enable the SEIAA to grant the environmental clearance at its end. The Chief Minister apprised Mrs. Natarajan that the stringent parameters of EIA notification had not only delayed the time bound projects of national importance like Chandigarh International Airport, roads, highways and other infrastructure works but also had adversely affected projects having a cascading impact on the economy of the state. 
Mr. Badal also informed the Union Minister that despite the fact that the State Government had already submitted final EIA/EMP reports of 95 minor mineral quarry projects with the Ministry of Environmental & Forests in the month of June, 2012 for the environmental clearance but the Ministry raised an objection in 89 quarries regarding approval of mining plans after four months, which led to acute scarcity of building material in the state. He requested the Union Minister to grant the requisite environmental clearances expeditiously after the State Government re-submitted the approved mining plans of these quarries by December 3, 2012.
Raising another issue for early clearance of Detailed Project Reports (DPRs) pending with National River Conservation Directorate (NRCD) of 17 towns namely Makhu, Dharmkot, Zira, Talwandi  Bhai and Ferozpur along River Satluj, Begowal, Dhilwan, Rayya and Sham Chaurasi along Beas and Sirhind, Fatehgarh Sahib, Nabha, Banur, Sanaur, Bassi Pathana, Mandi Gobingarh and Sangrur on Ghaggar River under National River Conservation Plan (NRCP) at a cost of Rs. 443.07 crore. He also sought technical appraisal and approval to be expedited by the Ministry for 5 Ghaggar towns viz. Rajpura, Patran, Khanauri, Lehragaga and Moonak at a cost of Rs. 116.67 crore. 
      The Chief Minister also requested to release the next installment of Rs. 50.65 crore for the execution of NRCP and sought Ministry’s permission to start work with state share in anticipation of sanction.
It may be recalled that as many as 34 towns are to be covered under NRCP, of which the Ministry has sanctioned projects for 12 towns at a cost of Rs. 543.04. Of these funds only 138.64 crore has been released so far. 
Responding to the issues raised by the Chief Minister, Mrs. Jayanthi Natarajan assured him that she would soon convene a meeting of senior officers of her Ministry to expedite the other pending issues regarding environmental clearances to the projects submitted by the state on the priority in order to further ease out the situation arisen out of scarcity of construction material. She also agreed to the proposal mooted by Mr. Badal for early clearance of the pending DPRs with NRCD and release of the next installment of Rs. 50.65 crore at the earliest.
               The Chief Minister was accompanied by his Principal Secretary Mr. SK Sandhu, Principal Secretary Local Government Mr. Suresh Kumar and Secretary-cum-Director Industries & Commerce Mr. Vikas Pratap.
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RS.90 CRORE RELEASED FOR COMPLETE REHABILITATION OF 22 RIVULETS: SEKHON

• REVIEWS THE PROGRESS OF VARIOUS ONGOING PROJECTS IN A HIGH LEVEL MEETING
• NARA DAM BE BUILT IN KANDI AREA WITH THE COST OF RS.37 CRORE
• KANDI CANAL PHASE-2 BE COMPLETED TILL MARCH 2014
• BANUR CANAL PROJECT TO COMMENCE IN DECEMBER THIS YEAR; WOULD BE COMPLETED IN ONE YEAR
• RELINING OF RAJASTHAN AND SIRHIND FEEDER CANALS BE ACCOMPLISHED IN FOUR YEAR WITH THE COST OF RS.1500 CRORE

CHANDIGARH, NOVEMBER 21:
            The Punjab Government has approved the complete rehabilitation project of 22 rivulets worth Rs.130 crore and released first installment of Rs.90 crore for this purpose.
            It was disclosed by Mr. Janmeja Singh Sekhon, Irrigation Minister, Punjab in a high level meeting to review the progress of ongoing irrigation projects in the state, here today. He said that the irrigation department is going to initiate some of the major projects, which included Shahpur Kandi Baraj, Rajasthan and Sirhind feeder relining, Banur canal project and completion of Kandi canal phase-2 project. During the meeting, Mr. Sekhon said that minutely supervised the progress on various ongoing irrigation projects in the state. He instructed the officer to complete all the projects within stipulated time period. He further said that the projects of Rajasthan and Sirhind feeder relining was being started shortly. He said that that estimated cost on this project would be Rs.1500 crore and the project would be completed within four years.
            He said that the state government has received complete rehabilitation proposals of 25 rivulets, out of which, the government has approved rehabilitation of 22 rivulets. He said that the government has already released Rs.90 crore for this purpose and these projects would be completed till March 31, 2013, He said that with the completion of these projects 3287 hectare additional area would come under the irrigation, besides improving the canal irrigation facilities upon an area of 61,571 hectare in the state. He said that the Kandi canal phase-2 project would be completed till March 2014.
            Mr. Sekhon announced that in Kandi area a new 'Nara Dam' would be built with the cost of Rs.37 crore and the work of this project would be started shortly.
            The Irrigation Minister further said that the work on Banur canal project worth Rs.87 crore would be initiated in December this year, which would be completed within one year bringing 3401 additional hectare area under irrigation. He said that to check the menace of water-logging in the regions of Sri Muktsar Sahib, Ferozpur and Fazilka, works are continued with the cost of Rs.50 crore.
            Mr. Sekhon added that the bilateral hurdles pertaining to the Sharpur Kandi project would be resolved shortly in the Chief Secretary level meeting with J&K government in ten days.
            In this meeting, Mr. Sekhon also reviewed the progress of the HP-2 and Irrigation and Power Research Institute besides supervising the work of Vigilance Department. Mr. Sekhon instructed the officers to ensure that nowhere in the state, government property is not being encroached by the land grabber.
            Prominent amongst other, who were present in the review meeting included Mr. Sohan Singh Thandal, Chief Parliamentary Secretary, Irrigation, Mr. K.B.S Sidhu, Principal Secretary and other Chief and Superintending Engineers of the department.

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FANCY VEHICLE NUMBER TO BE AUCTIONED ON DECEMBER 7

Chandigarh, November 21:
 
 According to a spokesman of the Transport Department Punjab, the fancy vehicle number PB-65-T series would be auctioned on December 7, 2012 in the office of District Transport Officer Mohali.
The spokesman further said that open auction would be held under the Punjab vehicle rules and the reserved price for the PB-65-T -0001 has been fixed at Rs. 50,000 where as the price for PB-65-T-0002 to 0010 has been fixed at Rs. 10,000. Adding further, he said that similarly the reserved price for PB-65-T-0010 to 0100 has been fixed at Rs. 3000 where as the price for PB-65-T-0101 to onward have been fixed at Rs. One thousand.
He also said that interested persons could submit the application with bank draft in the name of DTO Mohali by the December 5, 2012.

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MALUKA APPROVES A GOLDEN CHANCE FOR CLASS 10TH & 12TH STUDENTS

Chandigarh, November 21: The Punjab Education Minister Mr. Sikander Singh Maluka today gave formal approval of golden chance to the students of class 10th & 12th who failed in different subjects or could not appear in exams due to the brief introduction of semester system.
Disclosing this here today, the Education Minister said that it was noticed that due to sudden change in examination system some students could not clear some papers as they were not mentally prepared or used to the semester system. The Education Minister said that with this new arrangement those students would get an opportunity to clear their papers or examination along with March examination.
The Education Minister exhorted the students to work hard to get benefit of this golden opportunity.

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131.02 LAKH TONNES PADDY PROCURED IN PUNJAB
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Chandigarh, November 21: Government agencies and private millers procured more than 131.02 lakh tonnes of Paddy   till last evening
                   Out of total procurement of 13102554 tonnes of paddy in all the procurement centers of Punjab, Government agencies procured 124.91 lakh tonnes of paddy (95.3%) till date whereas private traders procured 610811 tonnes (4.7%) of paddy. Till October 20, PUNGRAIN had procured 36.86 lakh tonnes (29.5%) whereas MARKFED procured 28.37 lakh tonnes (22.7%). PUNSUP procured 28.55 lakh tonnes (22.9%), PSWC procured 12.52 lakh tonnes (10.0%) whereas PAIC was able to procure 12.92 lakh tonnes (10.4 %) of paddy.
                   The Central Government agency FCI had been able to procure 566812  tonnes (4.5%). 
                    The spokesman added that District Ludhiana with 15.53 lakh tonnes of procurement was leading in procurement operations whereas district Sangrur a 15.12 lakh tonnes of procurement was at second slot and District Patiala with 12.20 lakh tonnes of procurement ranked at third position.   
    The State Government has set up 1770 procurement centres and activated its total machinery to ensure smooth procurement of paddy, the spokesman added.
 
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DEPARTMENTS TOLD TO SUBMIT REPLIES IN COURTS 3 DAYS PRIOR TO HEARING
Chandigarh, November 21:
The Punjab government has issued instructions to all departments to ensure that replies to all court cases should be submitted to the court 3 days prior to the listing of the case.
An official spokesman today said that High Court has taken serious note of replies being submitted by various departments at the last moment that hinder the day to day working of courts. Any delay in this regard would invite penal action. Instructions have been issued to all the Financial Commissioners, Principal Secretaries and Secretaries to the State Government for meticulous compliance of the orders of the Hon’ble Punjab & Haryana High Court.
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VIGILANCE REGISTERS CRIMINAL CASE AGAINST FIVE OFFICERS FOR COMMITTING GRAVE IRREGULARITIES

Chandigarh November 21

-The Vigilance Bureau Punjab has registered a case against Chief Engineer, Superintending Engineer, three SDOs, two JEs, and three Contractors of Bathinda Development Authority for committing grave irregularities during checking of electric works executed in district Mansa. Disclosing this here today Mr Suresh Arora DGP-cum-Chief Director Vigilance Bureau Punjab said that bureau has conducted an enquiry about the electric works executed by the Bathinda Development Authority (BDA) in Mour Mandi, Mansa and Budhlada towns and grave irregularities were found. Adding further he said that it was detected that the accused Government officials in connivance with contractors had caused a loss to the tune of Rs. 8,02,61,472/- to the State exchequer. In this regard the Vigilance has registered a case under FIR No. 10 dated 21.11.2012, u/s 409, 420, 467, 468, 471, 120-B IPC and 13 (I) (d) read with 13 (2) Prevention of Corruption Act 1988 has been registered at Police Station, Vigilance Bureau, Bathinda against the accused Tarlochan Singh, Chief Engineer, Bathinda Development Authority, Bathinda, Paramjit Singh, Superintending Engineer Bathinda Development Authority, Bathinda, Chanchal Ram, SDO, Harminder Singh, SDO, Umesh Kaushal SDO, Gurdeep Singh JE, Amit Garg, Section Officer, Bathinda Development Authority, Bathinda, Swarndeep Arora JE, M/s Pawan Kumar Sighal Contractor, M/s Bhushan Kumar Thakural, Ludhiana and Mr. Kulbir Sahni of M/s Arbindra Electrical. He added that the further investigation w

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SUKHBIR ORDERS A CAMPAIGN AGAINST ILLEGAL TRAVEL AGENTS
·        NEXT SESSION OF VIDHAN SABHA TO GIVE NOD TO HUMAN TRAFFICKING ACT
·        PUNJAB POLICE TOLD TO SET UP 24 HOURS HELPLINE FOR DUPED YOUTH IN DISTRESS
·        TO SET UP WEBSITE TO REGISTER COMPLAINTS AGAINST ERRING AGENTS
·        PUNJAB APPROACHES EXTERNAL AFFAIR MINISTRY TO PROVIDE RELIEF TO PUNJABI YOUTH JAILED ABROAD

Chandigarh, November 20:

Punjab Deputy Chief Minister Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal today asked DGP Mr. S.S. Saini and IG, NRI Mrs. Gurpreet Deo to launch a sustained campaign against illegal travel agents duping innocent youths especially in the Doaba area.
In a meeting of NRI department held here today in which NRI Affairs Minister Mr. Bikram Singh Majithia raised the issue of rising number of cases of illegal travel agents duping the youth of Punjab and sending them abroad without any valid work permit, Mr. Badal said that it was the responsibility of law enforcing authorities to ensure that no agent without any license from appropriate authority and clearance from Protector of Immigrants should be allowed to operate. He asked the authorities to keep an eye on those agents who were issuing advertisements in vernacular newspapers without giving their complete address and launch a drive against them.

The Deputy Chief Minister agreeing with the suggestions of Mr. Majithia asked home department to present Human Trafficking Act in this ensuing session of Vidhan Sabha to give teeth to the law enforcement authorities against illegal agents.
Mr. Badal sought weekly report from every district SSP regarding this campaign against illegal agents and asked IG, NRI Affairs to personally monitor this campaign so that challans against them could be filed in the court timely by making the case water tight ensuring their conviction in the court.
Expressing concern over Punjabi youths who have been duped by travel agents and have been jailed in various countries, Mr. Badal asked NRI department to approach Union External Affairs Ministry to seek details of such youth from all embassies so that Punjab government could extend legal help to them.
Calling upon PUDA to put up a scheme for providing 10% reservation in all residential colonies to NRIs, Mr. Badal said that it should be got approved by PUDA in next meeting.
Prominent amongst those who were present in the meeting included Mr. Surjit Singh Rakhra, Rural Development & Panchayat Minister, Jathedar Tota Singh, Ex-Minister, Dr. Daljit Singh Cheema, Mr. Manpreet Singh Iyali, Mr. Gurpartap Singh Vadala, all MLAs, Mr. Balwant Singh Ramoowalia, ex-Union Minister, Advocate General Mr. Ashok Aggarwal, Justice (Retd.) Arvind Kumar, Chairman NRI Commission, Mr. S.S. Channi, Principal Secretary NRI Affairs, Mr. Suresh Kumar, Principal Secretary, Local Bodies, Mr. D.S. Bains, Home Secretary, Mrs. Vinni Mahajan, Principal Secretary Health, Mrs. Ravneet Kaur, Principal Secretary Education, Mr. B.S. Sudan, Secretary Home, Mrs. Gurpreet Deo, IG NRI Affairs, Mr. Anurag Verma, Divisional Commissioner Ropar, Mr. S.R. Ladhar, Divisional Commissioner Jalandhar, Mr. Priyank Bharti, DC Jalandhar, Ms. Alaknanda Dayal, DC Kapurthala, Mr. Manvesh Singh Sidhu, Chief Administrator PUDA, Mr. D.S. Mangat, Director Public Relations and Mr. Ajay Kumar Mahajan, Special Principal Secretary to Deputy Chief Minister.
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Punjab Congress hails Kasab hanging

CHANDIGARH, November 21: Punjab Pradesh Congress Committee today welcomed the hanging of the 26/11 Mumbai terror attack convict Ajmal Kasab, saying justice had finally been done in the case.
The party maintained that his execution has conveyed the right message that India cannot and will not tolerate any act of terror even if it takes some time to follow the process of law.
Reacting to the execution, the Punjab Congress general secretary attached to the PCC President, Arvind Khanna said, every law abiding citizen of the country feels relieved over the justice done in the case.
Saluting the legal and judicial system of the country, Khanna pointed out, despite the live video footing of Kasab’s acts of terror and killing people, due process of law was followed right from the trial court up to the President of India to ensure that he was allowed to exercise all legal options for his defence.
The Congress general secretary while hailing the execution said, it was a long awaited decision since people across the country were feeling outraged over the audacity of the attackers.

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ADOPT WORLD’S BEST PRACTICES OF WHOLESALE MARKET MANAGEMENT FOR THE MARKETING OF FRUITS AND VEGETABLES IN PUNJAB-BADAL

·        PLEADS FOR COOPEARTIVE SYSTEM IN FRUITS AND VEGETABLES MARKETING

CHANDIGARH NOVEMBER 20:
            The Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today called for the need to adopt world’s best practices of wholesale market management for the marketing of fruits and vegetables in the state to ensure remunerative returns to the farmers especially the small and marginal ones. 
            In his inaugural address at the first ever International Conference on “Wholesale Markets: Global Opportunities and Innovations” organized by the Punjab State Agricultural Marketing Board here at hotel Mount View, Mr. Badal suggested to formulate a common consensus group of wholesale market investors, developers, managers, operators and administrators to extend mutual cooperation besides developing marketing strategies to ensure maximum profitability of the fruits and vegetables growers through a well-knit wholesale marketing network.
            The Chief Minister said that the cooperative system was the best option to facilitate the inter-state marketing of fruits and vegetables from Punjab in about 50 major cities across the country having big markets with each city having a population of over one million. Mr. Badal pointed out this system provided better price to small producers by eliminating middlemen and reducing the transport cost.  He emphasized the need to replicate the model of the Father of White Revolution late Dr. Verghese Kurien, who played an exemplary role to make India the world’s largest milk producer through its successful cooperative marketing network in India.  The Verghese model should now be followed, said Mr. Badal in other areas such as marketing of fruits and vegetables.  He said that efforts were afoot to implement this model in Punjab urban areas like Ludhiana, Jalandhar, Amritsar, Patiala, Bathinda etc.  At present fruits and vegetables were now produced and marketed though a cooperative network of over 250 farmer-owned retail stores in Delhi and underlined the need to further intensify efforts for assured cooperative marketing support to the farmers in a big way.
            Divulging the farm diversification plans in the state, Mr. Badal said that the contribution of agriculture in the state’s income was gradually declining as the farmers were caught in the Wheat-Paddy rotation trap. The only way out was through diversification and improved marketing. He said that the State Government had recently submitted a diversification plan to the Union Government for shifting 1.2 million hectares of area under rice cultivation to other crops like maize, cotton with a main focus on fruits and vegetables during the next six years. Fruit and vegetable cultivation was a viable and remunerative alternative to existing crops. Kinnow was the principal fruit crop and potato was the most important vegetable crop in the state. He mentioned that the fruit and vegetable annual production was around five million tons in Punjab.
Mr. Badal said that time has now changed from old agricultural marketing approach to new business model through the application of advance technology and modern business concepts with ultimate aim to get remunerative price and to compete the produce in world market. He realized that the procurement of perishables like fruits and vegetables by government agencies was extremely difficult and Private Public Partnership (PPP) model was one of the solutions to ensure the marketing of these commodities in an efficient and result oriented manner. The government of India has proposed a draft model legislation on “Agricultural Produce Marketing (Development & Regulation) Act 2003”, which provides for establishment of private markets/yards, direct purchase centers, consumer farmer markets for direct sale of produce and promotion of PPP in the management and development of agriculture markets in the country for which Punjab was already going ahead to amend existing legislation accordingly.
The Chief Minister revealed that the Punjab State Agriculture Marketing Board had undertaken a number of measures for the promotion of fruits and vegetables cultivation and setting up of the modern market infrastructure in Punjab with a network of 90 fruits and vegetables markets of which 20-22 were major ones to provide the post harvest facilities. He however, said that due to globalization and liberalization, agricultural market no longer implied a localized farmer market, rather it meant a national or international level markets.
         Prominent amongst others who attended the conference included: Chairman, World Union of Wholesale Markets(WUWM) Mr. Torben Flinch, Vice-Chairman WUWM Mr. Manual Estrada-Nora Rodiguez,  Secretary General, WUWM Ms. Maria Cavit, Chief Parliamentry Sectary Mr. Gurbachan Singh Babbehali, Financial Commissioner Development Mr. GS Sandhu, Chairman Council of State Agricultural Marketing Boards & Chairman, Pb. Mandi Board Mr. Ajmer Singh Lakhowal,  Special Principal Secretary to Chief Minister Mr. Gaggandip Singh Brar, Secrtary Mandi Board Mr. Mohinder Singh Kainth, besides the Chairmen and Managing Directors and CEO’s of various markets of Europe and Asia.
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FIX NEW NUMBER PLATES ON VEHICLES WITHIN A WEEK

Chandigarh, November 20

Transport department has asked the owners of the vehicles, who have applied and deposited the fee for the security registration number plates for purposes of getting the new number plates, fixed on their vehicles within a week.
A spokesman of Transport department informed here today that according to the guidelines of Supreme Court of India, the Transport department Punjab has initiated the process of fixing the security registration number plates on the vehicles from April 30, 2012. The owners of the vehicles, who have deposited their fee for the security registration number could contact concerned District Transport Officers (DTOs) within a week otherwise the fee would be forfeited and they would have to deposit the fee once again. 
          The spokesman further said that security registration number plates are mandatory for the vehicles registered after the 30-4-12; failing which the government would have to stop running of the vehicles without specific number plates.

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CM CONDOLES SAD DEMISE OF BRIJ BHUSHAN, FATHER OF HT CORRESPONDENT RAJEEV BHASKAR 
 CHANDIGARH, NOVEMBER 20:
Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal expressed profound grief and sorrow over the sad demise of Mr. Brij Bhushan, father Senior Staffer of Hindustan Times posted at Jalandhar Mr. Rajeev Bhaskar. Mr. Brij Bhushan, who was 80, passed away this morning at Faridabad after a prolonged illness.
        In a condolence message Mr. Badal expressed his heart felt sympathies with the members of bereaved family. He also prayed to the Almighty to grant peace to the departed soul and strength to the bereaved family to bear this irreparable loss.

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SUKHBIR CONDOLES DEMISE OF BRIJ BHUSHAN, FATHER OF HT CORRESPONDENT RAJEEV BHASKAR 

CHANDIGARH, NOVEMBER 20: Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal, Deputy Chief Minister, Punjab today expressed profound grief over the demise of Mr. Brij Bhushan (80), father of Mr. Rajeev Bhaskar, Senior Staffer of Hindustan Times at Jalandhar.  
Mr. Brij Bhushan expired on Tuesday morning at Faridabad after a prolonged illness. The cremation would be held at 3 pm on Tuesday in the cremation ground of village Ajrondi, near Sector -15A on Delhi-Mathura Road, Faridabad.  
          In a condolence message Mr. Badal said that it was a great loss to the family of Mr. Bhushan. He prayed to the Almighty to give peace to the departed soul and strength to the bereaved family to bear this irreparable loss. 
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MAJITHIA CONDOLES THE DEATH OF BRIJ BHUSHAN
Chandigarh November 20
Punjab Revenue & Information and Public Relations Minister Mr. Bikram Singh Majithia today expressed profound grief and sorrow over the sad demise of Mr Brji Bhushan (80) , father of Mr Rajiv Bhaskar, senior reporter of Hindustan Times from Jalandhar. Mr Bhushan was passed away  at Faridabad on Tuesday morning.  Mr. Majithia shared his heartfelt sympathies with the members of the bereaved family and prayed to the Almighty to grant peace to the departed soul and give courage to bear this irreparable loss.
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MEDICAL TREATMENT WOULD BE EXTENDED TO ECONOMICALLY WEAKER SECTION OF SOCIETY- MITTAL

Chandigarh, November 20:

 Mr. Madan Mohan Mittal, Health Minister Punjab today presided over the Governing Body meeting of the Punjab Nirogi Society (PNS) which was attended by senior officers of the Department of Health and Family Welfare, the Department of Rural Development and the Department of Research and Medical Education. During the meeting, a policy decision regarding receiving part of the revenue being received from MAX Hospitals and donations were approved which will be utilized for extending financial assistance to Blue Card Holders or as per the direction of the State Government, in addition to BPL patients, whose number is quite less. He informed that in view of low utilization under the scheme, the State has taken many times the issue with the Government of India   to allow exemption in the eligibility criteria from BPL patients to Blue Card Holders in order to extend benefit of this scheme to larger segment of the economically weaker section but the Government of India has not acceded to the request of the State Government. He added that presently financial assistance up to ₹ 1.50 lacs is provided to BPL patient for getting treatment in the government Medical Colleges and Hospitals. As the scheme was limited to BPL families only, there was low utilization under this Centrally Sponsored Scheme. A comprehensive publicity plan was also approved for ₹ 40 lacs propagating the scheme which will be implemented very soon involving health workers and other publicity like; Folk Media, Radio Jingles, and TV Ad spots.

The Health Minister recognized the greater role of the Rural Development Department and Medical Education Department, emphasized for coordination with these Department in healthcare delivery specifically by involving Panchayats and Sarpanchs. He added that Department is organizing a Arogya Mela from 23rd to 26th November 2012 at Anandpur Sahib to provide awareness among the general public regarding the Indian System of Medicines (Ayurveda) and also, Homeopathy.
Health Minister also emphasized for an improvement of sanitation services in the hospitals and asked the senior functionaries of the Department to monitor closely the sanitation conditions and for roping more and more funds for sanitation and securities of the hospitals. The Health Minister also, emphasized on rational deployment of doctors and removing a mismatch in order to improve the services provided in hospitals.
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MITTAL REVIEWS THE FACILITIES GIVEN TO THE HANDICAPPED IN THE STATE

Chandigarh, November 20
          State co-ordination committee's meeting for welfare of handicapped held under the Chairmanship of Mr. Madan Mohan Mittal Social Security, Women & Child Development Minister Punjab.
                    During the meeting the Minister informed that the Punjab government had provided various facilities to the handicapped to make them independent. To implement section 13 of the act in its true nature, meeting of State co-ordination committee was held after six months.
          The minister said that regarding issuing of disability certificates, the department has issued instructions to make the procedure more easier. Facilities like 3% reservation in recruitment & promotion, constructions of ramps, wheelchair, provision of free books & vocation training, provision of jobs in public & private sectors given by the respective departments would be ensured. The Minister also directed the department concerned to provide reports in writing about the work executed by them for the welfare of handicapped and number of beneficiaries covered under various by November 30, 2012.
          The Minister said that the publicity regarding preventive measures to be taken at the time of birth of the child would be publicized through TV, Radio, Newspapers, Drama show, Nukar Natak and debates in schools so that people could get the information regarding this.
          Prominent amongst other who were present in the meeting included Mr. T.R. Sarangal Principal Secretary Social Security Women & Child Development Department, Mr. Gurkirat Kirpal Singh Director Social Security Women & Child Development Department, Mr. H I S Grewal IAS and officials from the different departments.

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Press Note
Chandigarh: November 20:
Punjab Government has directed all its Principal Secretaries and Secretaries not to transfer/posting Superintendent Grade-1/Officers at their own level.
          Disclosing this here today a spokesman of the General Administration, Punjab said that it was noticed that transfers/postings of Superintendent Grade-1/Officers by various departments were being made   at their own level without informing the Secretariat Administration. He said that only Secretariat Administration has the transfer/posting authority of Superintendent Grade-1/Officers. He said that if any department transfers their officers at their level, Secretariat Administration would reject the same.
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PUNJAB APPROVES 6 NEW HIGHWAY PROJECTS: SHARNJIT DHILLON
CHANDIGARH, NOVEMBER, 20:

The Punjab government today approved six new Highway Projects in the state which would be completed with the investment of Rs. 955.89 crore. It was disclosed by PWD Minister Punjab Mr. Sharnjit Singh Dhillon.
 He said that on the constructions of 66 KM long Kapurthla-Nakodar-Phillor Highway (Rs. 138.99 crore), 54 KM long Manpur Head-1 to Jagroan- Raikot Highway (Rs. 194.74 crore), for 48 KM long Manpur Head-2 to Barnala-Raikot Highway (Rs. 155.15 crore), for 49 KM long Ndampur- Lehra Highway (Rs. 163.71 crore), for 73 KM long Tanda-Sri Hargobindpur- Sri Amritsar Highway (Rs. 158.30 crore) and for the Highway of 42 KM length from Riaya (Rs. 145 crore) has been approved by the Punjab government. He said that the work on these projects have already been started.
Mr. Dhillon further said that work for the four lining of 56 km Ropar-Chamkor Sahib-Neilon-Doraha Highway, 30 km long Morinda-Kurali-Siswan-Baddi Highway, 30 km long Kotakpura-Sri Muktsar Sahib and 36 km long Batala-Mehta-Beas would be commenced on April 2013 and would be completed till December 2013.
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PRESS NOTE
Chandigarh: November 20:
          Punjab Government has decided to refix the term of the already constituted Punjab State Planning Board for a period of five years i.e. from 12-04-2012 to 11-04-2017.
          Disclosing this here today a spokesperson of the Punjab Government said here today that the Punjab Chief Minister would be Chairman of the Board whereas Finance Minister, Punjab and Sh. Rajinder Gupta would be Ex-Officio-Vice Chairman and Vice-Chairman (Term 20-3-2011 to 27-3-2016) of the board respectively.
The spokesman said that All Ministers, all MPs, Chairmen of Advisory Committees to Chief Minister, Chief Secretary, Principal Secretary Finance, and Principal Secretary to Chief Minister would be Official members whereas Principal Secretary/Secretary Planning would be  Member Secretary of the board.
          He further said that the non-offical members of the board were Dr. G.S.Kalkat, EX. V.C. PAU Ludhiana, Dr. Baldev Singh Dhillon, V.C, PAU Ludhiana and Dr. Ajaib Singh Brar, V.C, GNDU, Amritsar and  term of Non-official members was however fixed for a period of two years i.e from 21-12-2011 to 20-12-2013.A notification has already been issued in this regard, added the spokesman.
          The spokesman further said that the functions of the State Planning Board would be to make assessment of the material and human resources of the state including technical personnel and investigate the possibilities of augmenting such of these resources as are found to be deficient in relation to the state's requirements; to formulate a long term prospective plan for the most effective and balanced utilization of the State's resources; to evolve short term  strategy (Five Year Plan)for planned development; examination of different approaches so as to evolve a maximum growth rate, keeping in view the need for social justice; to identify factors which tend to retard economic and social development of  the State; to review the progress of implementation of the plan programme and recommend such adjustment in policies and measures as the review may indicate; to assist district authorities in formulation their development plans within the spheres in which such planning is considered useful and feasible and to coordinate these plans with the State Plans and to makes such interim or ancillary recommendations as appear to be appropriate either for facilitating the discharge of the duties assigned to it, or on a consideration of the prevailing economic conditions, current policies, measures and development programmes, or on examination of such specific problems as may be referred to it for advice by the Govt. The Headquarter of the Board would be at Chandigarh, added the spokesman.
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PUNJAB GOVERNMENT ORDERS RICE MILLERS TO COMPLETE MILLING TILL MARCH 2013
CHANDIGARH, NOVEMBER, 20:

          The Punjab government today issued strict instructions for the Rice millers to complete the Milling process of produce of current paddy season till March 31, failing which legal action would be taken against the erring Rice Millers.
          Disclosing this here today Mr. Satwant Singh Johal. Commissioner food and civil supplies said that specific instructions have also been issued to the Rice Millers to make arrangement for the milling of the 20 lac MT paddy, which is already lying in the Rice Mills from the last season, till December 31, 2012.
He further said that the Punjab government is committed to complete the milling of paddy in the stipulated time frame. He said that Mr. Adaish Partap singh Kairon, Food and Civil Supplies Minister has reviewed the status of Paddy procurement and milling.
Mr. Johal said that Punjab government has decided to lower the milling capacity of all those rice mills which are storing the less paddy than its allotted capacity. He said that pursing this direction of the Punjab Government the milling capacity of 47 mills has been lowered. He said that despite this some of the rice millers are refusing to store paddy as per their allotted limit. He said that under these conditions the Punjab government has taken decision to lower the milling capacity of all these erring rice mills.
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BADAL DEMANDS RS.5000 CRORE TECHNOLOGY MISSION FOR DIVERSIFICATION OF AGRICULTURE IN PUNJAB
CM ASKS PAWAR TO ENSURE PROCUREMENT OF MAIZE BY FCI AT MSP

SHARAD PAWAR PLEDGES FULL SUPPORT TO PUNJAB’S CROP DIVERSIFICATION PROGRAM

 ANNOUNCES SETTING UP OF 5 DEMO CENTERS FOR FISHERIES IN SALINE AND WATERLOGGED AREAS, STATE-OF-THE-ART INSTITUTE OF MAIZE RESEARCH

OKAYS ESTABLISHMENT OF CENTER FOR RESEARCH IN FISHERIES AND PRAWNS AT GADVASU
CHANDIGARH NOVEMBER 20:
            Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today urged the Union Agriculture Minister Mr. Sharad Pawar to help the state in promoting farm diversification and demanded a technology mission for 'Diversification of Agriculture with an allocation of Rs 5000 crore for green revolution areas in the 12th Five Year Plan.   
            Pleading the state’s case before a high level delegation of experts from Agriculture, Animal Husbandry, Dairy and Fisheries led by Mr. Sharad Pawar, the Chief Minister said that Punjab farmers stood by the nation during its need for food security and deserved to be supported in a big way.  He emphasized that the procurement of alternate crops especially Maize through Food Corporation of India at MSP should be ensured to help the beleaguered farmers of the state to shift them from Paddy.    He also reiterated that livestock sector could play a major role in improving the income of the small and landless farmers in the rural areas however, for this purpose it must be brought at par with agriculture for the purpose of funding, interest on loans as well as Income tax exemptions.
            Demanding a slew of incentives to promote dairying in a big way, Mr. Badal urged the Union Agriculture Minister to grant exemption from custom duty for import of machinery relating to dairy, poultry, feed and fodder, besides additional allocation under various Dairy Development schemes.    Mr. Badal also asked the Food Safety Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) to revise the norms with regard to cow milk in view of actual quality of cow milk in Punjab, Haryana and Chandigarh, which was required to have  4% fat.  On the contrary, for all other parts of the country these standards were different and the requirement of fat was only 3.5%.  The milk of high yielding cross bred cows contains fat about 3.5% and there is dire need to rationalize the standards as in other parts of country.   He also demanded that small ruminants such as goatry and piggery be included under National Mission on Protein Supplement besides setting up of an ICAR unit for research in fisheries and prawns in the state. 
            Responding to the demands raised by the Chief Minister, Mr. Pawar consented in principle for launching a technology mission to promote crop diversification in the region.  To strengthen the research for development of Maize the ICAR would set up a state-of-the-art institute over a land area of 100 hectares to be provided by the State.  To ensure marketing of maize, Mr. Pawar desired that the state should create a legal frame work to facilitate contact farming of maize with the poultry and cattle feed industry.   To encourage the adoption of fisheries in saline and waterlogged areas, Mr. Pawar announced to set up five ultramodern demonstration centers one each at Mansa, Bathinda, Muktsar, Faridkot and Ferozepur districts.  A prestigious research center for fisheries and prawn culture would be set up in GADVASU to meet the need of state farmers for quality seedlings.   Mr. Pawar assured the Chief Minister that he would soon take up the matter for export of dairy and poultry products through Wagha border with Ministries of Commerce and External Affairs. Likewise, he also assured that he would also take up the matter with Union Ministry of Finance to equate livestock sector with agriculture for the exemption of income tax and interest rates etc.  To ensure development and modernization of milk processing infrastructure in the state, the National Dairy Development Board shall be asked to provide soft loan to the state Milk Federation. 
            Expressing gratitude to Mr. Pawar, the Chief Minister said that he was over-whelmed by the special concern shown by him to bail out the state peasantry in this hour of crisis and support farm diversification programs.  He apprised Mr. Pawar that a monitoring and steering committee for diversification has already been constituted under Chairman Punjab State Farmers’ Commission Dr.GS Kalkat, besides two technical support groups have also been formed to implement the mega diversification program in crop and livestock sector in right earnest.    
            The Government of India was represented by Secretary Agriculture Mr. Ashish Bahuguna, Secretary Animal Husbandry, Dairying & Fisheries Mr. GC Patti and Director General ICAR Mr. S.Ayappan, Joint Secretary Crops Mr. Mukesh Khullar and Joint Secretary Animal Husbandry Mrs. Rajni Sekhri Sibal.  The State was represented by Food & Supplies Minister Mr. Adesh Partap Singh Kairon, Animal Husbandry Minister Mr. Sarwan Singh Phillaur, Chairman Punjab State Farmers’ Commission Dr.GS Kalkat, Chief Parliamentary Secretaries Mr. Desh Raj Dhugga and Mr. GS Babbehali.  Financial Commissioner Development Mr.GS Sandhu, Financial Commissioner Animal Husbandry Mr. Jagpal Singh Sandhu, VC PAU Dr. BS Dhillon and VC GADVASU Dr. VK Taneja, Principal Secretary to Chief Minister Mr. SK Sandhu, Secretary Food & Supplies Mr. DS Grewal, Special Principal Secretary to Chief Minister Mr. Gaggandip Singh Brar, Advisor Agriculture Dr. BS Sidhu, Director Agriculture Mr. MS Sandhu, Director Animal Husbandry Dr. HS Sandha, Director Dairy Development Mr. Inderjit Singh and  Director Fisheries Dr. BK Sood.
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CLASS 10TH & 12th STUDENTS TO GET A GOLDEN CHANCE
·        SUKHBIR ASKS EDUCATION MINISTER TO GIVE CHANCE TO STUDENTS WHO SUFFERED DURING SEMESTER SYSTEM

Chandigarh, November 20: The Punjab Deputy Chief Minister Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal today asked Education Minister Mr. Sikander Singh Maluka to give golden chance to the students of class 10th & 12th who failed in different subjects or could not appear in exams due to the brief introduction of semester system.
In a meeting of Education department held here today, Mr. Badal said that students who were mentally prepared for annual examination system could not clear some exams due to sudden change of examination system.
He asked Education Minister to allow class 10th & 12th students who failed in some subjects in their semester exams to clear those subjects along with March examination. He said that students should not suffer due to sudden shift of examination system and PSEB must give a golden chance to the students.
Prominent amongst those who were present in the meeting included Mrs. Ravneet Kaur, Secretary Education, Mr. K.S. Pannu, Director General School Education, Mr. Manvesh Singh Sidhu and Mr. Ajay Kumar Mahajan, both Special Principal Secretaries to Deputy Chief Minister.

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PUNJAB SEEKS 2% CUT ON AGRI-BANK LOANS BY NABARD
·         STRUCTURAL REFORMS IN LONG TERM CREDIT COULD ACCELERATE THE PACE OF RURAL DEVELOPMENT
·         URGES GOI TO IMPLEMENT RECOMMENDATIONS OF VAIDYANATHAN TASK FORCE
·         INAUGURATES TWO DAY NATIONAL CONFERENCE OF ARDBs

CHANDIGARH, NOVEMBER 20: The Punjab government has requested Union government to cut interstate on agriculture credit by NABARD by minimum 2% to give boost to this sector besides accelerating its growth. The Punjab has pleaded that agricultural sector could be strengthened by ensuring availability of long and short term credit on lesser interest rate to the farmers.
It was disclosed by Mr. Parminder Singh Dhindsa, Finance Minister, Punjab while delivering a key note address at the inaugural function of two day National Conference of Agricultural and Rural Development Banks (ARDBs) here. The conference is being organized to explore the possibilities to strengthen the cooperative movement in the nation.
             Mr. Dhindsa said that the state government is committed to strengthen the cooperative movement in the state, which was responsible for the emergence of green revolution and overall rural development. He said that the Punjab Government has impressed upon the centre government on various platforms to modernize the cooperative movement with the state-of-the-art technology.
            The Finance Minister urged upon the centre government to lower the rate of interest for the long and short term credits to the agriculture banks through NABARD at least by 2 per cent. He said that the Agricultural Banks are forced to extend credit to the farmers at higher rates as they themselves receiving investment credit from NABARD on higher rates. He said that this is an unwelcome step for the farm sector. He reiterated that by lowering the interest rate on investment credit, not only Agricultural Banks would be able to generate more revenue on the other hand farmers could also improve their economics.
            Mr. Dhindsa said that the Punjab Government in the recent meeting with the center government urged them to consider the structural reforms in the long and short term credits and also to implement the recommendations of the Vaidyanathan Task Force. He further said that the implementation of the recommendations of Vaidyanathan Task Force could play a catalytic role in ensuring the pace of rural development. He also described the positive outcome of special schemes like; Mai Bhago Scheme and Bhai Kanhaiya Health Insurance Scheme implemented by the state government and Agro service Centres functioning in the state.
            Mr. K. Sivadasan Nair, Chairman, National Fedration of State Cooperative Agriculture and Rural Development Banks from Kerala, Mr. K.K. Ravinderan, Managing Director and Mr. Vishwajeet Khanna, Principal Secretary, Cooperation and Mr. G.S. Mangat, MD, PARDB also addressed the gathering. Delegates from Kerala, Gujarat, Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh, Haryana, Tamil Nadu, West Bengal, Punjab and other states is participating in this conference.
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CM GIVES NOD TO GRANT SUB-TEHSIL STATUS TO SANOUR
·        SANCTIONS Rs. 2.37 CRORE FOR DEVELOPMENT WORKS IN SANOUR CONSITUENCY

PATIALA, NOVEMBER 19:
            Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today gave in principle approval to grant the status of Sub-tehsil to Sanour town in Patiala district. 
            A decision to this effect was taken by Mr. Badal during a meeting with the incharge of Assembly constituency Sanour Mr. Tajinderpal Singh Sandhu at Chief Minister’s Residence in Chandigarh this evening. 
            Responding to the demands raised by Mr. Sandhu, the Chief Minister asked the Financial Commissioner Revenue to complete the requisite formalities for declaring Sanour as Sub-tehsil at the earliest.  Mr. Badal also asked the Principal Secretary Technical Education to set up skill development center at Sanour to impart training to the youth to enable them to get suitably employed.  Likewise, he also directed the Principal Secretary School Education to start vocational training courses in the 10+2 school in Sanour assembly constituency to impart vocational education to the students so that they could be gainfully as well as self-employed.   He also asked the Secretary Mandi Board to examine the case for the pavement of mandis at Devigarh, Bhunheri and Balvera besides the strengthening and repair of link roads in this constituency on the priority. He also sanctioned Rs. 1.37 crore for the patch work/repair of link roads.
            Mr. Badal also asked the Director Local Government to immediately start construction work of circular road (phirni) in Sanour and sanctioned Rs. 1 crore for it.  To save the people from the fury of flash floods caused by river Ghaggar, Mr. Badal asked the Chief Engineer Drainage to get all the drains de-silted with in the constituency so as to prevent the substantial loss cause to the life and property of the people.   Mr. Badal also asked the Principal Secretary Health & Family Welfare to get all the dilapidated buildings of health sub centers repaired in the constituency on the top priority besides providing adequate staff in these centers. He also asked the Deputy Commissioner Patiala to immediately initiate the process to include the villages of Sanour constituency upto Bahadurgarh within the jurisdiction of Municipal Corporation Patiala with the prior concent of the concerned village Panchayat to ensure their overall development. 
            Prominent amongst others who were present in the meeting included Financial Commissioner Revenue Mr. NS Kang, Principal Secretary Technical Education & Industrial Training Mr. SS Channy, Principal Secretary Health & Family Welfare Ms. Vinni Mahajan, Director Technical Education Mr. B.Purshartha, Director-cum-Secretary Industries Mr. Vikas Partap, Deputy Commissioner Patiala Mr. GK Singh, Mrs Anoopinder Kaur Sandhu and OSD to Chief Minister Mr. Sandeep Hans.

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PUNJAB TO HOST 3 DAY NRI SAMMELAN FROM JANUARY 3-5---MAJITHIA

·NRI SABHA ELECTION TO BE HELD ON JANUARY 27
·DCs TO ATTEST THE POWER OF ATTORNEY
·NRI POLICE STATION TO BE SET UP IN AMRITSAR

Chandigarh November 19:

Mr. Bikram Singh Majithia, Public Relations, Revenue and NRI Minister, Punjab reviewed the arrangements for the forthcoming NRI Sammelan to be held in Punjab from January 3 to 5. Addressing a high level meeting, the Minister said that elected representatives MPs, MLAs, present mayors, councilors would attend the Sammelan. The Punjab government has also planned a visit for the visiting delegates to the historical places in Punjab.

Taking a major decision to facilitate the NRIs, the Punjab government has also authorized the Deputy Commissioner’s to attest the Power of Attorney along with the Divisional Commissioners. He also said that the state government would set up NRI police stations in all the districts. As many as 6 NRI Police stations have already been set up in the state. The government has completed all the formalities of setting up NRI Police station at Amritsar, said Mr. Majithia.

Adding further, the Minister said that the state government would launch an interactive website for NRIs in the month of December to facilitate them. To cater to the legal needs of the NRIs, the Minister said that the Punjab government would establish a Legal NRI Cell which would extend all possible help to the NRIs in their legal cases. He has directed the Deputy Commissioners to give priority to the matters concerning NRIs in their daily meetings.
          Referring to the security arrangements being extended to the NRIs during the Sammelan, the Minister said that the Punjab State Ex-Servicemen Corporation (PESCO) has been assigned to ensure proper security cover to NRIs. The Minister also announced the holding of the NRI Sabha elections on January 27, 2013. He said that the election date was fixed keeping in mind the NRI Sammelan to be held in the first week of January in Punjab where a large number of NRIs are expected to participate.
          On the demand of the Advisory Committee and the NRIs, the state government has put an end to the system of nominee voting in the forthcoming NRI Sabha elections, said the Minister. He also said that after the elections, the allocation of work or portfolios would be done by the President himself instead of the Chairman.
           
The government has taken adequate steps to protect the properties of the NRIs in Punjab. The SSPs have been asked to ensure the forceful implementation of these steps at the grass root levels so that the NRI properties could be protected from the illegal occupants.
          With regard to acknowledging the use of NRI cards as their Identity cards for availing the benefits of various government schemes, the Minister said that the matter would be taken at the level of the central government.
          Jathedar Tota Singh MLA, Dr. Daljit Singh Cheema ,Mr. Pargat Singh all MLA,Former Union Minster, Mr. Balwant Singh Ramoowalia, former MLA Sarabjit Singh Makkar, Mr. S.S.Channi, Secretary NRI Affairs, S.R.Ladhar Divisional Commissioner Jalandhar, Priyank Bharti Deputy Commissioner Jalandhar, Alak Nanda DC Kapurthala and representatives of NRI Sabha were also present in the meeting.    

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Sharomani Akali Dal

*Sukhbir slams Shiela dikshit for her statement on sikh religious affairs *

Chandigarh November 18

The Shiromani Akali Dal president Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal today reacted sharply to the Delhi Chief Minister Mrs. Shiela Dixit’s remarks in which she had advised  the SAD patron in chief and Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal to “mind his own business and  keep away from the Delhi Sikh affairs.

     “ Will someone please go and tell her that Sikh affairs are very much a business  of the Sikhs,  and of the Sikhs alone, and that she or her government should stay away from the internal  religious matters of the Sikh community. Let her  instead use her position to ensure better law and order in Delhi . By openly talking about an issue which concerns our shrines,  Mrs. Shiela Dixit has only confirmed  Mr. Badal’s observation that the Congress government in Delhi is indeed interfering in the religious affairs of the Sikhs,” in a statement here.

      Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal further  said that he had been amazed at the Delhi Chief Minister choosing to speak on what is essentially a religious affair of the Sikh community and that she should be seen to be so keen to protect her protégés . “And may I ask Madam Dixit if she considers herself above the Prime Minister to whom Mr. Badal’s  communication was addressed?
The Prime  Minister is yet to respond to the Punjab Chief Minister’s concerns but Mrs. Dixit, in her wisdom, seems to believe she can pre-empt the PM also. “

      The SAD president also wanted to know if the Delhi government “interference in the affairs of the DSGMC is a part of the Congress High Command’s policy and strategy. If that is so, may one ask what  was wrong in Mr. Badal telling the Congress not to meddle in our affairs.? Haven’t we suffered enough because of such ill-advised course followed by the Congress governments in the past ? “

  Mr. Sukhbir  Singh re-iterated the Punjab Chief Minister’s  call to the Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh to stop the Delhi government from amending the electoral procedure for DSGMC. “The Delhi government must respect the letter and the spirit of the orders of the honourable Supreme Court that elections to the Delhi Sikh Gurdwara Management Committee be held in December, he said.

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PUNJAB GOVERNMENT NOTIFIES 7 PER CENT DA ENHANCEMENT

CHANDIGARH, NOVEMBER 19:
The Punjab Government notified 7 per cent Dearness Allowance (DA) enhancement payable to the state government employees/pensioners from 65 per cent to 72 per cent of the revised basic pay with effect from 1st July, 2012.
Disclosing this here, an official spokesperson of the Punjab Government said that the announcement for 7 per cent increase has already been made by the Finance Minister on November 12, 2012. He said that the state government has now issued notification for the implementation of this DA enhancement.
He further said that the enhanced DA as already announced by the Finance Minister would be given in two modes. He said that the enhanced DA for the first two months i.e. from 1st July, 2012 to 31st August, 2012 would be deposited in to the General Provident Fund (GPF) account of employees, whereas the arrear of the DA calculating from 1st September would be given in cash. The spokesperson further said that the employees appointed on or after 1st January, 2004 would be paid the enhanced DA in the shape of National Saving Certificates/Kisan Vikas Patras for the period from 1st July, 2012 to 31st August, 2012, while pensioners would be paid the entire amount of enhanced dearness allowance in cash with effect from 1st July, 2012.

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CM OKAYS CRUSHING IN 16 SUGAR MILLS FROM NOVEMBER 25

CHANDIGARH NOVEMBER 19:
          The Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today gave approval to start the crushing in the sugar mills from November 25, 2012 for the crushing season 2012-13. 
          Disclosing this here a spokesperson of the Chief Minister’s Office said that Mr. Badal cleared the proposal in this regard mooted by the state Cane Commissioner. 
          It may be recalled that the state government had also granted such permission to the sugar mills for the crushing of sugarcane during 2010-11 and 2011-12 from November 25.
The spokesperson further said that at present, 16 sugar mills were operational in the state, of which 9 were in cooperative and 7 in private sector.  The crushing capacity of 9 cooperative sugar mills was 15766 TCD and 34000 TCD of 7 private mills, thereby totaling up to 49766 TCD.  These 16 sugar mills required 896 lac quintal of sugarcane for running these mills up to 6 months (180 days), but sugarcane was sown over an area of 84000 hectares across the state during 2012-13 seasons. The expected production of sugarcane was approximately 560 lac quintal, of which nearly 425 lac quintal sugarcane was likely to be crushed during the current crushing season. 

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MEDICAL TREATMENT WOULD BE EXTENDED TO ECONOMICALLY WEAKER SECTION OF SOCIETY- MITTAL

Chandigarh, November 19:  Sh. Madan Mohan Mittal, Health Minister Punjab today presided over the Governing Body meeting of the Punjab Nirogi Society (PNS) which was attended by senior officers of the Department of Health and Family Welfare, the Department of Rural Development and the Department of Research and Medical Education. During the meeting, a policy decision regarding receiving part of the revenue being received from MAX Hospitals and donations were approved which will be utilized for extending financial assistance to Blue Card Holders or as per the direction of the State Government, in addition to BPL patients, whose number is quite less. He informed that in view of low utilization under the scheme, the State has taken many times the issue with the Government of India   to allow exemption in the eligibility criteria from BPL patients to Blue Card Holders in order to extend benefit of this scheme to larger segment of the economically weaker section but the Government of India has not acceded to the request of the State Government. He added that presently financial assistance up to ₹ 1.50 lacs is provided to BPL patient for getting treatment in the government Medical Colleges and Hospitals. As the scheme was limited to BPL families only, there was low utilization under this Centrally Sponsored Scheme. A comprehensive publicity plan was also approved for ₹ 40 lacs propagating the scheme which will be implemented very soon involving health workers and other publicity like; Folk Media, Radio Jingles, and TV Ad spots.
The Health Minister recognized the greater role of the Rural Development Department and Medical Education Department, emphasized for coordination with these Department in healthcare delivery specifically by involving Panchayats and Sarpanchs. He added that Department is organizing a Arogya Mela from 23rd to 26th November 2012 at Anandpur Sahib to provide awareness among the general public regarding the Indian System of Medicines (Ayurveda) and also, Homeopathy.
Health Minister also emphasized for an improvement of sanitation services in the hospitals and asked the senior functionaries of the Department to monitor closely the sanitation conditions and for roping more and more funds for sanitation and securities of the hospitals. The Health Minister also, emphasized on rational deployment of doctors and removing a mismatch in order to improve the services provided in hospitals.

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PUNJAB TO ENHANCE MONTHLY HONORARIUM OF AANGANWARI WORKERS AND HELPERS AT PAR WITH HARYANA
CHANDIGARH, NOVEMBER 19
          The Punjab Government would soon enhance monthly honorarium of Aanganwari workers and Helpers at par with Haryana.
An announcement to this effect was made by Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal during a meeting with the delegation of All Punjab Aanganwari Mulaazam Union led by its President Mrs. Hargobind Kaur here at Chief Minister’s residence, late last evening.
Mr. Badal said that hike in the monthly honorarium of Aanganwari Workers and Helpers by Rs 500 and Rs 200 thereby increasing it to Rs 5100 and Rs 2500 per month respectively would be given in two phases. Under the first phase 50% of the hike would be given in April 2013 and remaining in the month of October 2013, added Mr. Badal.
          It may be recalled that this hike in the honorarium would entail Rs. 20.5 crore as extra annual burden on the state exchequer. Presently Aanganwari Workers and Helpers are getting honorarium of Rs 4600 and 2300 per month respectively, of which Rs 3000 was paid by the Centre and Rs 1600 by the state in case of Aanganwari workers. Likewise, in case of Aanganwari helpers Rs.1500 was contributed by the Centre and Rs 800 by the state.  
Regarding the demand of the delegation for the promotion from the Anganwari workers as Supervisors, Mr. Badal directed the department to deal the promotion cases up to the age of 52 in a time bound manner as per the direction of the Punjab and Haryana High Court. The Chief Minister also approved to double the amount of rent for the Aanganwari Centers. He also approved that while considering any case of appointment of Aanganwari worker on compassionate grounds first preference would be given to the Daughter and second to Daughter-in-Law.
Regarding their another demand to start a pension scheme for Anganwari workers, Mr. Badal asked the Secretary Social Security, Women and Child Development to chalk out some Annuity Plan with the involvement of LIC, for which government was ready to contribute its equal share with the share of Aanganwari workers. He also assured the delegation that he would take-up their demands related to introduce Medical allowance, enhancement in Medical leaves and supply of subsidized gas cylinders to all Anganwari centers.
Expressing gratitude to the Chief Minister for showing magnanimity in accepting their all demands Mrs. Hargobind Kaur assured Mr. Badal on behalf of all Aanganwari workers and helpers that they would discharge their duties with far more commitment, dedication and sincerity to ensure over all development and prosperity especially in the rural segment that too at the grassroots level.  
          Prominent amongst others who participated in the deliberations in the meeting included Principal Secretary to Chief Minister Mr. SK Sandhu, Secretary Social Security, Women and Child Development Mr. TR Sarangal and Director Social Security, Women and Child Development Mr. Gurkirat Kirpal Singh.

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Punjab Congress seeks review of exorbitant licence fee on marriage palaces

CHANDIGARH, November 18: Punjab Congress today sought the review of the government orders imposing exorbitant licence fee on the marriage palaces. The party said, it will be virtually impossible for the palace owners to meet the exorbitant and unrealistic demands of licence fee and ultimately most of these might shut down.

Reacting to the government notification, Punjab Congress general secretary and Dhuri MLA Arvind Khanna pointed out, the government had imposed highly exorbitant and unrealistic licence fee on marriage palaces. He demanded that the fees be reduced and its payment spread out into instalments.

Giving examples he said, marriage palaces were supposed to deposit Rs 50 lakhs per acre in Ludhiana, Rs 40 lakhs in Jalandhar and Rs 10 lakhs per acre in Sangrur. He said, this is neither possible nor practicable. He said, the marriage palaces cannot even afford to pass the burden on the customers as they may also not be able to pay this much money.
Khanna said, on an average a marriage palace covers four acres. That means a marriage palace owner in Ludhiana will have to pay Rs 2 crores while in Sangrur Rs 40 lakhs which may not be possible for most of the marriage palace owners.
Besides, he said, the marriage palaces cannot be governed by the same policy as applicable on the development of residential colonies. He said, the government must have a separate and rational policy on the marriage palaces.
He suggested that the government should take the marriage palace owners into confidence and arrive at some consensus to fix a fee which is mutually acceptable to all the parties. Besides, he added, fee should be claimed from the marriage palaces in instalments and not in one go. He said, some of them may not be able to pay the fee even after selling off their properties and ultimately they may close down their business which will be bad for the state and the people in particular. 

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BADAL URGES PM TO ENSURE JUSTICE TO THE ENTIRE SIKH COMMUNITY REGARDING DSGMC ELECTIONS
CM INAUGURATES CH.DEVI LAL MEMORIAL CENTRE OF LEARNING (CDCL)

CHANDIGARH, NOVEMBER 19:
          Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today urged the Prime Minister to ensure Justice to the entire Sikh community by directing the Delhi Government to get the process of DSGMC elections completed positively by 31th December 2012, the dead line fixed by the Supreme Court.
Mr. Badal was addressing the media persons here today on the sidelines of the inaugural function of Ch. Devi Lal Memaorial Centre of Learning (CDCL) established by the Ch. Devi Lal Memorial Trust over an area of 3 acres to provide professional education in the field of competitive exams, skill development and entrepreneur development to enable youth to compete at global levels.
Mr. Badal appreciated the concern of the Trust in promoting school and higher education previously through establishing a public school in Sirsa and Ch.Devi Lal Vidya Peeth where several professional degrees cources like MBA, BBA, Pharmacy, Dentistry etc. were being run and now through establishing this State-of-the-art learning centre where CDCL in collaboration with an Australian skill development company.
        Emphasizing the need to impart quality education to the children Mr. Badal said that Punjab had also implemented a comprehensive plan in the state to impart quality education both at school and college levels to prepare our youth to compete globally. Mr. Badal said that Punjab government had signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with a Company of German Federal government to establish five Skill Development Centers with a multi chain of sub-centers to impart skill training as per the Industrial needs to our unemployed youth and make them employable. He further informed that one such initiative with Canadian Government would also be soon finalized.
On the occasion, Dr. Ajay Singh Chautala who is director of CDCL welcomed Mr. Badal and thanked him to grace the occasion. He also informed that CDCL would impart vocational five months skill training in different fields like plumbers, electricians and AC mechanics etc. besides assured employment. The Centre would also initiate IAS/IPS coaching classes from the next year in collaboration with the best institutes in the region and also provide free hostel facilities to the students during coaching period, added Dr. Chautala.
Earlier, after inaugurating the centre Mr. Badal paid floral tributes to late Ch. Devi Lal and lighted the lamp to mark the occasion.  

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Punjab Congress launches membership drive with great fanfare

CHANDIGARH:

Punjab Pradesh Congress Committee today launched the membership drive with great fanfare. The occasion coincided with the 95th birth anniversary of former Prime Minister Ms Indira Gandhi. Besides making new members, the membership of old members will also be renewed.
The leaders also paid floral tributes to the portrait of Ms Gandhi at the PCC.
The membership drive was launched by the senior party leaders who included the party general secretary and incharge for Punjab Thakur Gulchain Singh Charak, the Punjab Pradesh Congress Committee President Capt Amarinder Singh, the Congress Legislative Party leader Sunil Jakhar, PCC general secretary Arvind Khanna and others. Besides, the PCC office bearers, the district presidents and MLA were also present.
Capt Amarinder filled the first membership form. He was followed by the CLP leader Mr Jakhar in presence of Mr Charak. The membership drive will continue till 2015. The drive will include enlisting members from the booth level to the state level.
Speaking on the occasion Mr Charak said, a foolproof mechanism has been evolved to ensure that the membership drive remains credible. He said, after the completion of the membership drive identity cards will be issued to the members.
Addressing the meeting Capt Amarinder said, the membership had special significance for Punjab for two reasons. One that the ruling Akali Dal had unleashed a reign of terror on the Congress workers forcing them to leave the party and join the Akali Dal and second it was important from the point of view of the General Elections scheduled for 2014.
The PCC President maintained that the membership drive will restore the confidence of the workers at the grass-roots level. He urged the office bearers, district presidents, MLAs and ex-MLAs and other prominent workers present on the occasion to ensure that they reach out to all the workers to boost their morale.
He said, the membership drive will have a positive impact during the run up to the parliamentary elections as it will help in mobilising the cadres. He expressed confidence that the party will enrol maximum number of members and break all previous records.

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Congress seeks a public apology from the Union Minister of State Sh. Balram Nayak, for allowing a convict criminal Bibi Jagir Kaur to honour him besides sharing dias with her, during a public function yesterday at Bholath. (Photos attached alongwith)

Sukhpal Singh Khaira
Ex-MLA
            Sh. Balram Nayak MOS for Social Justice GOI visited Bholath yesterday to participate in a public function. The organizers of the function had also invited Bibi Jagir Kaur, who has been convicted to five years of rigorous imprisonment recently by a special court of the CBI for abduction, kidnapping and forceful abortion of a feotus.
            Bibi Jagir Kaur not only shared the dias with the Union Minister but also honoured him with a plaque in the presence of hundreds of people. The said participation and honouring of the Minister by a convict has sent a very negative signal to the society in general and youth in particular. By allowing a convict to garland him and accept honours from a criminal, the Union Minister has done gross disservice to morality in politics. Persons such as Sh. Balram Nayak holding responsible public offices are expected to lead by example and are not to stoop to such low levels of politicking.
            This blatant and brazen wrongful act of the Minister amounts to promoting criminality in politics. In other words it means that we should not hesitate to indulge in criminal acts while being in politics. It is also highly immoral for Bibi Jagir Kaur to garland and honour a Union Congress Minister, while her party leaves no stone unturned in severely criticizing the UPA govt. daily.
            Therefore, the congress party upholding high moral values and principles strongly condemns the immoral, unethical and cowardly act of the Union Minister and demands immediate public apology. In case the minister fails to tender a public apology, he would be ‘Gheraod’ and greeted with black flags next time he visits Punjab.
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Badal assures Union Railways Minister for quick and positive response to any proposal to set up railway industry in Punjab
Chandigarh, November 18 – The Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal said here today that the SAD-BJP Punjab government would  respond “immediately and positively” to any proposal to set up a railway industry in the state and that “we are in fact keen on any such proposals from  all central ministries. In fact, we have been begging for it”
    Responding to a statement by the Union Railways Minister Mr. Pawan Bansal which said that the government of India was ready to set up railways industries in Punjab if the state government facilitated land for the purpose, Mr. Badal said, “It will be a great news if at all the center sticks to it. We will follow it through with the railways ministry also. I will personally write to and  meet Mr. Bansal in this regard, “ said Mr. Badal in a statement released here today.
  The Chief Minister said that he, his party and the SAD-BJP government in Punjab have been pressing for more central projects in the state for a long,  long time but all our pleas have gone unheard in the past. “Therefore, we are really happy about Mr. Bansal’s statement and, if he can indeed get us something, I will be personally beholden to him. ”
   Mr. Badal further said that the UPA government had sat  on all our requests in the past, but if things change in future, “we will be the happiest. I believe that with four Punjab ministers in the Union cabinet, apart from the Prime Minister himself, Punjabis have a right to expect that the past would change and that the present government would give us an industrial bonanza. Unfortunately, our experience has been very disappointing so far. But I am willing to look beyond that.”
   The CM said that there is an urgent need for setting up agro-based industries also in the state. “With the prospects of expansion in international trade with Pakistan and the rest of the world through the Attari-Wagha border land route, we would certainly need more and more units to diversify our economy. We want the center to give a push to agri-value addition so that Punjab farmers can break away from the paddy-wheat rotation and the state’s economy could branch out into fresh business zones.”
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INFORMATION AND PUBLIC RELATIONS DEPARTMENT, PUNJAB
PUNJAB GOVERNMENT TO CONSTITUTE PARAMEDICAL COUNCIL

CHANDIGARH, NOVEMBER 18:
The Punjab Government has decided to constitute the Paramedical Council in order to regulate the practices of paramedical practitioners and institutions in the state. The blue print of Punjab State Paramedical Council Act, 2012 has been uploaded on the website of the Medical Education and Research Department. Objections from the different walks have been sought for the better enactment of the act.
While disclosing this here, Medical Education Minister, Mr. Chunni Lal Bhagat said that the department has invited suggestions and objections, if any, from the parties concerned till November 25, 2012, so that judicious concerns may be incorporated in the act. He said that this paramedical council would formulate schemes for promoting paramedical education. He said that the council would also lay down norms and standards for courses, curricula, physical and instructional facilities, staff pattern, staff qualification, quality instructions, assessment, examination and continuing medical education.]
Mr. Bhagat said that Director, Research and Medical Education would be the president of the council, whereas senior most Principal of State Medical College would be inducted as Vice President. He said that suggestions and objections could be sent on the e-mail asthind23@yahoo.com .
No. PR-12/9
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INFORMATION AND PUBLIC RELATIONS DEPARTMENT, PUNJAB
PUNJAB STARTS ACTION ON IMPROVED IRRIGATION PLAN TO STRENGTHEN THE CANAL NETWORK
·        RS. 1128 CRORE EARMARKED FOR IRRIGATION PROJECTS
CHANDIGARH, NOVEMBER 18: The Punjab Government has started the work on the implementation of improved and better irrigation plan to provide better irrigation facilities to the farmers of the state besides strengthening the canal network as the state government has earmarked Rs. 1128 crore for irrigation projects. 
          According to an official spokesman, as per the improved irrigation system the century old canal network in the state, which is operating at 30% below its designated capacity, would be rehabilitated. He said that under the improved irrigation plan the Sarhind Feeder would be relined, four canals would be reconstructed besides construction of Kandi canal.
          The Spokesman said that Rs. 40 crore is being spent on the relining of Sarhind Feeder Project in the present fiscal year while this project would be concluded with a total cost of Rs. 489 crore. He said that this project would be completed within four years as the works were on full swing. He said that once this project would become operational it would not only save the water but also secured the banks of canals.
          The Spokesman informed that Rs. 60 crore would be spent on the construction of four canals including Bist Doab, Bathinda Branch, Sidwan Branch and Abohar Branch. He said that this project would conclude with a total cost of Rs. 734 crore and the project would be completed within next three years. He said that the completion of Kandi Canal Phase-II, a stretch of 18 Kilometer, with a combined cost of Rs. 245 crore is on advanced stage of completion.
No. PR-12/1017
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INFORMATION AND PUBLIC RELATIONS DEPARTMENT PUNJAB

PUNJAB DAY WOULD BE CELEBRATED ON NOVEMBER 22 AT IITF 2012
·      Singer Jasbir Jassi to perform on Punjab Day
CHANDIGARH, NOVEMBER 18:
Punjab day would be celebrated on November 22 at India International Trade Fair (IITF) being held at Pragati Maidan New Delhi from November 14 to 27.
Disclosing this here today a spokesman of the Punjab Government today said that the Punjab Pavilion has been designed and executed with the fair theme of ‘Skilling India. He said that the Punjab pavilion at Trade Fair begins with various technical universities participating to showcase their respective contribution to the field of skill enhancement followed by display by various corporations from state.
 Popular Punjabi singer Jasbir Jassi would entertain the visitors on the Punjab day 22 November.
Besides that a special display section from Pushpa Gujaral Science city, Kapurthala having many interesting facts about science has also been installed.
He said that the main entrance for Punjab Pavilion is the depiction of Khalsa college of Amritsar the premiere educational institution of state with a rich heritage, high standards of education with special focus on vocational training and skill enhancement. The main Pavilion signage has also on this structure and domes on top of the building boasts of rich architectural heritage of the state. The human figures of male and female on either side on the front are a symbolic representation of hardworking and skilful people of the state.
He further said that the extreme left is an amalgamation of various shots depicting students graduating of colleges and working on site and becoming successful entrepreneurs in life. He said that the Punjab Pavilion would also depict a cultural bonanza of the state and rich festivities for which Punjab is known for across the globe.
The display from Punjab Agriculture University showcases organic farming and other research initiatives which result in higher crop yield. The diorama also depicts the story of how initiatives are being taken at the grass roots level with research team visiting and educating farmers on how to use various modern methods of farming.
He said that the display of industry section has been ranging from small machine tools to sport equipments and hosiery wear of the state.
Punjab Government has also decided to pay tribute to the legend filmmaker from Punjab Yash Chopra and great comedian Jaspal Bhatti who have contributed immensely to the entertainment industry of India at Punjab Pavilion.
There would also be a flavour of local shopping bazaar boasting of traditional jutties, phulkari, shawls and hosiery products from the state.
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CM CONDOLES THE DEATH OF BAL THACKERAY
CHANDIGARH, NOVEMBER 17:

Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today expressed profound grief and sorrow over the sad demise of Shiv Sena Supremo Mr. Bal Thackeray who passed away after a brief illness at Lilavati Hospital in Mumbai, this evening. He was 86 and survived by two sons.
In a condolence message Mr. Badal described Mr. Thackeray as real leader of masses, who worked relentlessly to safeguard the rights of the Maharashtrians till his last breath. He said that in his death a void had been created in the national political canvas, which was hard to be filled in near future. Mr. Badal shared his heart-felt sympathies with the members of the bereaved family and prayed to the Almighty to give courage to bear this irreparable loss and grant peace to the departed soul.

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BADAL ANNOUNCES TO DOUBLE CASH AWARD FROM RS 5 TO 10 LAKH FOR SHIROMANI SAHIT RATTAN AND RS 2.5 TO 5LAKH FOR SHIROMANI SAHITKAR AWARDS FROM NEXT YEAR
ANNOUNCES TO START A SPECIAL CATEGORY OF SHIROMANI AWARDS FOR ELECTRONIC AND PRINT SCRIBES OF PUNJABI ORIGIN SETTLED ABROAD
CM HONORS 43 PERSONALITIES WITH SHIROMANI SAHIT RATTAN AND SHIROMANI SAHITKAR AWARDS
PUNJABI LANGUAGE A VITAL BRIDGE TO PROMOTE CORDIAL TIES BETWEEN INDIA AND PAKISTAN- MAJITHIA
SAD-BJP GOVERNMENT WAS FULLY COMMITTED TO PROMOTE PUNJABI LANGUAGE, LITERATURE AND CULTURE- MALUKA

 Chandigarh, November 17-
            Punjab Chief Minister Mr Parkash Singh Badal today announced to double the cash amount of Shiromani Awards bestowed upon leading litterateurs, journalists, poets and other eminent personalities for their outstanding contribution in promotion of the Punjabi language, literature and culture.
            Addressing a gathering here at Punjab Bhawan after honoring 43 literary personalities with Shiromani Sahit Rattan and Shiromani Sahitkar awards, the Chief Minister said that from the next year the personalities being honored with Shiromani Sahit Rattan award would be given a cash prize of Rs 10 lakh instead of Rs 5 lakh given earlier whereas the amount given to recipient of Shiromani Sahitkar award has been doubled from Rs 2.5 lakh to Rs 5 lakh. Mr Badal said that the sole motive to enhance the cash award was to give due recognition to the outstanding and valuable contribution made by these noted litterateurs for the promotion of the Punjabi language, literature and culture.
The Chief Minister also announced that to introduce another award to honor the enormous contribution of scribes with Punjab origin settled abroad in Print and Electronic media. Mr Badal also asked the Education Minister to ensure to hold thus function every year to felicitate the litterateurs in respective fields. He called upon the active members of  Journalism and Literary word related to Punjab to work for  the promotion Punjab, Punjabi and the rich cultural values of Punjab to inculcate a feel of pride amongst our young generation that was being detached from it under the impact of westernization.
In an emotional appeal, the Chief Minister urged the parents to start speaking Punjabi with their children from day one because it was mandatory to perpetuate the rich legacy of Punjab, Punjabi and Punjabiat which was being eroded swiftly. He said that the fairly large concentration of Punjabi Diaspora over the globe today became familiar with the fact that their families could not survive by detaching themselves from their roots. “It is our moral and social obligation that we should work together to glorify Punjab’s rich cultural and heritage”, said Mr Badal. 
The Chief Minister said that it was the SAD-BJP government which enacted a legislation to make the use of Punjabi language in all Government and semi-Government offices and to introduce it as a compulsory subject in schools. Mr Badal said he has asked the Bureaucracy to work in Punjabi and returned files to the concerned officers who had made noting or even put signatures in English. The underlying spirit of this gesture was to make aware about the significance of the Punjabi language as a medium of official communication.
Speaking on the occasion Information and Public Relations Minister Mr Bikram Sigh Mjaithia congratulated the recipients of the award for their outstanding contribution in the promotion of Punjabi language, literature and culture adding that they were fortunate enough to be honored by an eminent personality of Mr Badal’s stature, who was not merely an individual but an institution. He said that Punjabi language could act as a vital link to foster the bonds of goodwill, friendship and harmony between people of the India and Pakistan.
In his address the Education Minister Mr Sikander Singh Maluka pointed out that undoubtedly English was universally accepted world over as a link language and we should give due recognition to it but not at the cost and status of our mother tongue, Punjabi. Mr Maluka further said that SAD-BJP government was fully committed to promote Punjabi from the day one and had brought an amendment in the Punjabi Language Act to make Punjabi as a compulsory subject in all the schools in the state up to 10thclass.
Prominent amongst those present on the occasion included Cabinet Ministers Mr Sarwan Singh Phillaur, Principal Secretary Information and Public Relations Department Mr NS Kang, Principal Secretary Higher Education and Languages Mrs Ravneet Kaur, Special Principal Secretary to the Chief Minister Mr Gaggandip Singh Brar, Director Languages Dr Balbir Kaur, Director General School Education Mr Kahan Singh Pannu, Additional Secretary Information and Public Relations Department Mr Gurwaryam Singh and Additional Director Information and Public Relations Department Mrs Senu Duggal.
On the occasion Mr Badal also honored 43 literary personalities with the annual awards being bestowed by the Languages department Punjab under different literary categories: For the year 2010 Dr. Mohinder Kaur Gill was honoured with Punjabi Sahit Rattan Award, Dr. Tejwant Mann with Shiromani Punjabi Sahitkar Award, Mr Shiv Prasad Bhardwaj with Shiromani Sanskrit Sahitkat Award, Mr Surinder Gill with Shiromani Punjabi Kavi Award, Dr Harbhajan Singh Bhatia Shiromani Punjabi Alochak/Gian Sahitkar Award, Mrs Veena Verma with Shiromani Punjabi Sahitkar (Videshi) award, S Darshan Singh Bhau with Shiromani Punjabi Sahitkar (outside Punjab) award, Mr Sukhdev Singh Grewal with Shiromani Punjabi Bal Sahit Lekhak award, Mr Hukum Chand Sharma with Shiromani Punjabi Patarkar Award, Bhai Joga Singh Jogi with Shiromani Rag/ Kavishar award, Mrs Jatinder Kaur Shiromani Punjabi Television/ Radio Award, Mr Amarjeet Gurdaspuri with Shiromani Punjabi Gayak/ Sangeetkar award, Mr Gurwinder Singh Dhaliwal with Shiromani Punjabi Sahitak Patarkar Award.
Likewise, for the year 2011 the Chief Minister honored Mr Prem Parkash Khannvi with Punjabi Sahit Rattan Award, Mr Surjeet Hans with Shiromani Punjabi Sahitkar Award, Dr Krishan Kumar Rattu with Shiromani Hindi Sahitkar Award, Dr Rubeena Shabnam with Shiromani Urdu Sahitkar Award, Dr Mahesh Chander Gautam with Shiromani Sanskrit Sahitkar Award, Mr Surjeet Judge with Shiromani Punjabi Kavi Award, Dr Saroop Singh Alagh with Shiromani Punjabi Alochak/Gian Sahitkar Award, Mr Jarnail Singh with Shiromani Punjabi Sahitkar (Videshi) award, Mr Harbhajan Singh Komal with Shiromani Punjabi Sahitkar (outside Punjab) award, Mr Kamaljeet Neelon with Shiromani Punjabi Bal Sahit Lekhak award, Mr Kamaljeet Singh Banvait with Shiromani Punjabi Patarkar Award, Bhai Nirmal Singh Khalsa with Shiromani Ragi/ Kavishar award, Mr Kesar Singh Shiromani Punjabi Television/ Radio Award, Mr Jagdish Waryam with Shiromani Punjabi Sahitak Patarkar Award whereas Mr Kuldeep Manak was bestowed upon  Shiromani Punjabi Gayak/ Sangeetkar award posthumously.
The Chief Minister also gave away Giani Gurmukh Singh Musafir Award for Punjabi poetry to Mr Paramveer Singh for his creation ‘Amrit Vela’, Principal Sujan Singh Awarad for Punjabi Story to Principal Gurdev Singh Sandhaur for ‘Vilakdi Garibi’, S Gurbaksh Singh Preetladi Award for Punjabi essays/ travelogues to Mr Ajit Singh Chandan for ‘Salike Naal Jiyo’ and cDr Amar Komal for ‘Nav Rang’, Bhai Veer Singh Award for Encyclopedia to Dr Surjeet Singh Dhillon for ‘Biotechnology dictionary’, Principal Teja Award for Editing to Mr Sukhdev Madpuri for ‘Kallar Deeva Machda’, Dr Atar Singh Award for criticism to Dr Gursharan Kaur Jaggi for ‘Guru Nanak Bani-Prem Bhagti Da Sarup’ Dr MS Randhawa Award for Gian Sahit to Mr Jaswant Singh Sidhu for ‘Shaheedi Marg- Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji’, Sri Guru Harikrishan Puruskar for Bal Sahit 2011 to Dr Faqir Chand Shukla for ‘Dur Hunda Hanera’ and for the year 2010 to Mr Jai Ram Nirdosh for ‘Mehak Amanaan Di’, Giani Sant Singh Award for Hindi poetry was given to Mr Kulbhushan Kalra for ‘Bazaar Banta Aadmi’, Sudarshan Puruskar for Hindi Novel to Mr Yashpal Sharma for ‘Udaan’ and  Baal Sahitya Puraskar for Hindi Baal Sahit to Dr Faqir Chand Shukla for ‘Janamdin Ki Party’.
Besides, the Chief Minister also bestowed upon three special awards to Prof. Kirpal Singh Badungar, Mr Harvinder Singh Khalsa and Mr Gulzar Singh Shaunki for their enormous contribution in development of Punjabi language and literature.       
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UPA DISCRIMINATING AGAINST OPPOSITION RULED STATES-SUKHBIR
 
·       TIME TO ACCEPT COALITION GOVERNMENTS’ AS ERA OF TWO PARTY RULE HAS GONE
 
·       WITH INFLUENCE LIMITED TO TWO-THREE STATES EVERY NATIONAL PARTY HAS BEEN REDUCED TO A REGIONAL PARTY
 
·       BLAMING COALITION FOR POLITICAL INSTABILITY DOESN’T REFLECT POLITICAL MATURITY
 
·       MINIMISING STATE-PEOPLE INTERACTION PROVIDING ONLINE CITIZEN SERVICES AND MINISMISING DISCRETION COULD ONLY CHECK CORRUPTION
 
·       2G, 3G, CWG SCAMS WOULD NOT HAVE HAPPENED IF UPA HAD RESORTED TO E-TENDERING
 
·       MEDIA MUST INTROSPECT ON PAID NEWS
 
·       PARKASH SINGH BADAL IS A POLITICAL UNIVERSITY
 
·       INCREASING INDO-PAK ECONOMIC INDEPENDENCE WOULD END WARS AND HOSTILITY AUTOMATICALLY
 
NEW DELHI/CHANDIGARH, NOVEMBER 17: The Punjab Deputy Chief Minister Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal today accused Congress led UPA Government of blatantly discriminating against opposition ruled state and favoring the states ruled by allies/supporters in disbursing grants and relief to the states.
 
       Participating in a panel discussion organized by a media group with two other young satraps, Mr. Omar Abdullah, Chief Minister, Jammu and Kashmir and Mr. Akhilesh Yadav, Chief Minister, Uttar Pradesh, Mr. Badal said that “numbers were the name of the game and in this game of numbers small states having single digit MPs especially being ruled by opposition parties were being blatantly ignored by Union Government. Citing the example of Drought Relief, Mr. Badal said that even after metrological department of India declared that Punjab had a 42% rain deficiency, highest in the country, the Union Government refused to give a single penny of drought relief and only favoring those states, which were helping Union Government survive numerically in the center. He said that this was a dangerous phenomenon and shows that we have not matured to run coalition providing equitable justice to every state. Intervening in the discussion, Mr. Omar Abdullah said that even numbers don’t matter, your political affiliation matter as though Gujarat may have big number of MPs but it would not get the same kind of treatment that Congress ruled states were getting.
       Rubbishing the charge that regional parties were responsible for political instability in the country, Mr. Badal said that days of two party rules are over and we should accept the fact that Coalition Politics was here to stay for ever. He said that people chose regional parties as National Parties failed to fulfill the aspirations of electorates and every decision making became too centralized. He said that our parties should accept coalition politics and behaved to run coalition in a mature manner sticking to mutually decided Common Minimum Program.
       On the issue of Corruption, Mr. Badal said that Corruption could not be eradicated by a single Lokpal as we have to make the systems transparent and online to eradicate the opportunities for the corruption. Giving the examples of Punjab, Mr. Badal said that as per Governance Reforms Commission’s report, we are all set to put 99 percent citizen services online, removing physical interaction of public with state, evolving transparent procedures and minimizing discretion of authorities that leads to corruption. He said that Punjab is the first state to eliminate affidavits and empowered citizen by introducing ‘self attestation’. He said that Punjab is the first state in the country that has computerized all land records, providing online copy of your land records across the globe. Mr. Badal said that auto dealers in Punjab are giving copies of Vehicle Registration Certificate on the spot the moment you buy the vehicle. He said that Punjab is only state that has made e-tendering compulsory for every government department and saved more then 30% money in project costs. He said that if Congress led UPA Government would have resorted to e-tendering and transparent procedure, minimizing the discretion of authorities; there would not have been any 2G, 3G, CWG Multi Lakh Crore Scams. He said that time has come that to minimize the chances of corruption rather than to keep punishing the people after they have looted the kitty.
       Appreciating the efforts of Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal, UP Chief Minister Mr. Akhilesh Yadav said that his endeavor to check citizen-centric corruption was appreciable and this model should be also adopted to check Multi Lakh Crore Scams.
       On a question of probable role of Regional Parties in ensuing 2014 Lok Sabha elections, Mr. Badal said that every party in the country including so called National Parties have been reduced to regional parties with their influence reducing to two-three states, other states being ruled by Regional Parties. He said that new nomenclature should be big Regional Parties and Small Regional Parties as no party in India including Congress could claim to be a National Party.
       Answering another question on India Against Corruption ( IAC ) was targeting only National Parties and not exposing corruption of Regional Parties, Mr. Badal said that corruption was the omni-present phenomenon afflicting every section of the society including media also. He said that the menace of paid news in the elections has become so enormous and every candidate was being asked to take a package by the representatives of media organization to avoid negative news. He said that time has come for media also to introspect and check this malpractice as independent media was imperative for the strength of our Democratic System.
       On the question of political legacy to three young leaders, Mr. Badal said that there was no denying fact that people trust a brand and a political family. He said that political family can give you only first chance after that you have to make your own way and survive in the cut throat competitive political environment. He said that 92 years old Shiromani Akali Dal has unanimously elected him to lead the party after watching his performance in many electoral battles.  Mr. Badal said that Mr. Parkash Singh Badal, Chief Minister of Punjab is and would remain my role model in my political life as I have learnt alphabets of politics just watching him in his 50 year long political career. He said that Mr. Badal was a political university himself. Answering a question regarding criminal elements in the politics, Mr. Badal said that we have to make some distinctions between criminal cases as lot of false cases were lodged, when you are in opposition giving his own example even I was charged stealing a small camera. 
 
       Speaking about his visit to Pakistan, Mr. Badal said that his visit to Lahore was historic and eye-opener. He said that against popular perception he could not see any anti-India feeling in the people of Pakistan and got an impression that they were more eager than us to strengthen Indo-Pak trade ties. He said that he got a feeling that, “if we move one step, they were willing to take ten steps forward” to strengthen economic ties. He said that he had sought appointment with Prime Minister, Finance Minister and Commerce Minister to brief them about his visit to Pakistan and hope that Union Government would take forward the economic agenda with Pakistan with equal zeal that we have initiated. Mr. Badal said that economics was the name of the game and increasing Indo-Pak economic dependence would end wars and hostilities between two neighbouring countries.
       In the 45 minutes long panel discussion, the young visionary face of new India, Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal got a thunderous applause as he explained the blueprint to check corruption from public life.
       Mr. Omar Abdullah and Mr. Akhilesh Yadav also participated in the discussion.   
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CM FELICITATES VETERAN SCRIBES PARWANA, CHUM AND MOHINDRA FOR THEIR OUTSTANDING CONTRIBUTION IN FIELD OF JOURNALISM
REITERATES STATE GOVERNMENT’S COMMITMENT FOR THE OVERALL WELFARE OF THE JOURNOS
MAJITHIA VOWS TO HONOR SINCERE AND DEDICATED JOURNALISTS IN FUTURE ALSO
Chandigarh, November 17-
            Recognizing the outstanding contribution in the field of journalism, the Punjab Chief Minister Mr Parkash Singh Badal today honored three veteran journalists Mr NS Parwana, Mr BK Chum and Mr PD Mohindra who served the society in general and state in particular through their prolific writings spanning over a period of five decades. 
            Accompanied by Information and Public Relations Minister Mr Bikram Singh Majithia, the Chief Minister in an impressive function held at the Punjab Bhawan here today conferred the honor on these three senior most journalists with a cash award of Rs One lakh each besides a citation and a shawl. Recalling the marvelous services rendered by these three eminent journalists, Mr Badal said that he knew them since the days when he had entered in active politics since early 1950s, as all of us were young at that time. He said that the award was a mere token of love from the Government of Punjab in due recognition of their enormous contribution in the field of journalism.
The Chief Minister mentioned that these journalists worked zealously with professional commitment to uphold the freedom of Press besides discharging their duties with utmost dedication, commitment and sincerity. Mr Badal said that it was a matter of great pride and satisfaction for him that he had got the chance to honor these journalists who were renowned for their courage, impartiality and nose for the news. Congratulating all the three recipients of the award, he hoped that they would continue to be a source of inspiration for the budding journalists to perform their duty with integrity and commitment.
The Chief Minister further said that the state government was committed for the overall welfare of the scribes and would make all out efforts to ensure their well being. Underlining the need for an independent press in a democratic county like India, Mr Badal said that it played a vital role not only in framing the public opinion by creating awareness amongst the people but it also helps the government in formulating the pro-people policies by giving them the much required feedback.
            Speaking on the occasion Information and Public Relations Minister Mr Bikram Singh Majithia said that it was the duty of the state government to honor these reputed journalists who had selflessly served the country in general and Punjab in particular by their remarkable services. He said that the state government particularly the Information and Public Relations department would continue its endeavors in the future too, so that the services rendered by such dedicated and committed scribes are duly recognized. 
Prominent amongst those present on the occasion included Cabinet Ministers Mr Bikram Singh Majithia, Mr Sikander Singh Maluka and Mr Sarwan Singh Phillaur, Principal Secretary Information and Public Relations Department Mr NS Kang, Special Principal Secretary to the Chief Minister Mr Gaggandip Singh Brar ,Additional Secretary Information and Public Relations Department Mr Gurwaryam Singh and Additional Director Information and Public Relations Department Mrs Senu Duggal. 

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CM ASSAILS GOI AND CONGRESS FOR MEDDLING IN THE RELIGIOUS AFFAIRS OF SIKHS
VERBAL SPAT BETWEEN MITTAL AND SIDHU RESOLVED AMICABLY
REITERATES FIRM COMMITMENT TO OPPOSE FDI IN RETAIL SECTOR
UNION MINISTERS FROM PUNJAB MUST FOCUS ON BRINGING MORE DEVELOPMENTAL PROJECTS IN STATE
PRESIDES OVER THE ANNUAL ATHLETIC MEET AT SRI DASHMESH ACADEMY
Sri Anandpur Sahib, November 17-
            Punjab Chief Minister Mr Parkash Singh Badal today warned the Government of India (GoI) and Congress not to interfere in the religious affairs of Sikhs because any such ill conceived move could vitiate the peaceful atmosphere in the state and the country.
Talking to the media persons on the sidelines of the annual athletic meet of Sri Dashmesh Academy here today, the Chief Minister said that he had already apprised the Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh regarding the unfortunate violent attack on the members of Delhi unit of Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) by the task force of the Sarna group at Gurudwara Sri Rakabganj Sahib on Thursday. He asked the Centre as well as Congress leadership to desist from such politically motivated tactics by deliberately delaying the general elections of the Delhi Sikh Gurudara Management Committee (DSGMC) in contravention to the clear cut orders of Supreme Court to hold these elections positively by December 31, 2012. Mr Badal cautioned the Centre if tomorrow situation gets out hand then the entire onus would be on them.
Slamming the Delhi government for being hand in glove with DSGMC Chief Paramjeet Singh Sarna, the Chief Minister said that it was unfortunate and unjustified on its part to pave a way for direct elections to the President of DSGMC as this provision was nowhere in vogue be it the election of President of India, Prime Minister, Chief Minister and even Panchayats. Mr Badal categorically said that all this was being done with a sole motive to aid the ruling Congress to recapture the power in forthcoming assembly elections.    
Referring to the verbal spat between the Health Minister Mr Madan Mohan Mittal and Chief Parliamentary Secretary Dr Navjot Kaur Sidhu over the recent sting operation to nab the government doctors indulging in private practice, the Chief Minister said that both of them have amicably resolved the issue. Mincing no words Mr Badal said that whosoever, influential he or she may be, indulging in any malpractice or any wrong doing should not be spared in the public interest and should be punished in accordance with the law.
Reiterating SAD stand on FDI in multi-retail sector, the Chief Minister said, “They are against it from the day one because anything which suits a particular economy doesn’t mean that it will be beneficial to other”. He cited the example of American economy where FDI was successful on the contrary it can’t be replicated in India because it would ruin the petty shopkeepers and small traders. Reminding a classic example of British East India Company, Mr Badal said that they came in the guise of traders and plundered our economy resulting in the decay of indigenous industry and consequently ruled the country for over a period of 200 years. He said we should draw lessons from the past and must oppose it tooth and nail as it would adversely impact our local trade and industry. Taking a cue from multinational companies like Coca Cola and Pepsi, the Chief Minister said FDI would wipe out the local industry and trade as these International beverages conglomerates decimated the local soft drink companies.
Replying to another query, the Chief Minister said that the Congress MPs from Punjab had got considerable share in the Union Ministry with four Ministers, who should now mount pressure on the GoI for seeking more developmental projects and schemes in the state to usher in an era of all-round growth and prosperity. Mr Badal said Punjab had been a target of blatant neglect by the Centre as no major public sector project came to the state and now the people of state were keeping their hopes high on these newly inducted/elevated ministers in Union Council of Ministers to cherish their aspirations. He hoped that the long pending Rail link between Sri Anandpur Sahib and Garhshankar could also see light at the end of the tunnel.
Earlier addressing the students of Sri Dashmesh Academy the Chief Minister, who is the Chairman of the Dashmesh Academy Trust, said that this prestigious Academy would soon come up as one of the leading residential public schools in the country. Mr Badal said since its inception way back in 1978, when its foundation stone was laid by the then President of India Mr N. Sanjeeva Reddy, this state of the art academy was his dream project adding that he was still passionately involved in it to bring it at the zenith. He emphasized on the need to impart preparatory training to the students on the pattern of National Defence Academy (NDA) to enable them to join Armed forces.
On the occasion Chief Minister gave away prizes and trophies to the winners of Athletic meet besides inaugurating the exhibition.     
Prominent amongst those present on the occasion included Cabinet Minister Mr Surjeet Singh Rakhra, Rajya Sabha MP Mr Balwinder Singh Bhunder, MLA Ropar Dr Daljeet Singh Cheema Special Principal Secretary to the Chief Minister Mr KJS Cheema, Deputy Commissioner Mr PK Aggarwal and Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Mr Inder Mohan Singh. Besides the director of Academy Major General (Retd.) JS Ghuman, Principal Colonel (Retd.) Amarjeet Singh and members of the trust including Air Marshall (Retd.) MM Singh, Captain AJS Grewal and Advocate Mr IP Singh were also present.   
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SUKHBIR SHOWCASES PRIME REAL ESTATE PROPERTIES TO INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPERS

• INVITES THEM TO INVEST IN PUNJAB- THE LAND OF OPPORTUNITIES
• SHOWCASES 10,000 ACRE PRIME COMMERCIAL LAND IN VARIOUS CITIES
• PUNJAB REAL ESTATE POLICY BY DECEMBER 15
• REAL ESTATE TO BE GIVEN STATUS OF INDUSTRY
• PROMISES PLATHEORA OF INCENTIVES INCLUDING HASSLE FREE CLEARANCES, TIME BOUND EC CLEARANCE, UNIFORM CODE FOR ALL CITIES, UNLIMITED HEIGHTS BESIDES RATIONALISING CHARGES
• CALLS THEM TO FOCUS ON CONSUMER SATISFACTION

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 NEW DELHI/CHANDIGARH, NOVEMBER 17: The Punjab Deputy Chief Minister Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal today showcased Prime Urban Land under the possession of Punjab Government to 137 international and national Real Estate Developers, who assembled here today under the aegis of Confederation of Real Estate Developers Association of India (CREDAI) in a convention organized by them, Punjab land of opportunities.

                Addressing the real estate developers, who came from various parts of India including South India and Western India and as far as Dubai to listen to Punjab Deputy Chief Minister Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal, who shared his vision to develop Punjab as potential real estate hub of the country besides promising them a hassle free most comprehensive Real Estate Policy by December 15, 2012.

                Presenting Punjab as Land of Opportunities, Mr. Badal said that Punjab defied global recession by clocking 20 plus percentage VAT increase without increasing any tax rate. He said that real estate developers, who had enjoyed best of time, would have to become consumer centric in the changed scenario, marketing their products according to the immediate needs of consumer.

                Mr. Badal said that Punjab with highest consumer index high per capita income best infrastructure in the country, best human resource, best industrial and agri work culture and on the top of it with enterprising Punjabis willing to take every risk was the best place to invest. He said that Punjab was only state in the country that has prepared master plans of all the cities with a focus on planned urban development. He said that it would be the first state in the country that would be power surplus by December 2013, three international airports, all cities linked with 4/6 lane road networks and was laying special emphasis on education, health and hospitality. He said that Punjab has already notified the master plan of 32 cities, 72 local planning areas, 147 towns and 27 master plans were under preparation.

                Giving details of Power surplus status, Mr. Badal said that against the demand of 8214 MW and current availability of 5872 MW, Punjab would be generating 11484 MW by the end of 2013. He said that Rs. 12000 crore 1980 MW, Talwandi Sabo Thermal Plant, Rs 3000 crore 540 MW Goindwal Sahib Thermal Plant and Rs. 9000 crore 1400 MW Rajpura Thermal Plant are all set to be operational by next year. He said that by next year Shambhu-Jalandhar, Jalandhar-Pathankot, Jalandahr-Amritsar, Amritsar-Pathankot, Amritsar-Zira-Kot Kapura-Sri Ganga Nagar, Ludhiana-Moga-Talwandi, Hoshiarpur-Jalandhar-Moga-Barnala-Sangrur-Patran-Jind, Kharar-Ludhiana, Kurali-Ropar-Kiratpur Sahib, Ambala-Zirakpur-Kalka, Zirakpur-Patiala and Patiala-Bathinda would be linked with 4/6 lane roads with the investment of Rs. 7600 crore.

                Focusing on planned Urban Development, Mr. Badal said that he has sanctioned Rs. 10000 crore for integrated development of 147 cities that would provide 24X7 Power, 100% Drinking Water and Sewerage Coverage, Solid Waste Management and would ensure smooth traffic management.

                Inviting Real Estate Developers to invest in Punjab, Mr. Badal said that Real Estate, road and urban infrastructure, Edu cities in Mohali, Ludhiana and Bathinda, tourism and entertainment hubs in Amritsar and Ludhiana, health, hospitality and IT sector and offered total cooperation of State Government.

                Showcasing Real Estate opportunities in the GMADA region, Mr. badal said that city center (80 acre), medicity (200 acre), IT City (1600 acre), Education cities (1700 acre) were the life time opportunities in the vicinity of Chandigarh that would change the total profile of the Northern India. He said that Tata Cancer and Research Hospital has already moved in Mullanpur and Edu Cities were offering 1700 acres for universities, colleges, institutes of management, computer science, engineering and bio tech etc. He said that sector 62 City Center would offer integrated development of five star hotel, convention center, shopping malls, multiplexes and auditorium.

                Reiterating the resolve to make GMADA as IT hub of South East Asia, Mr. Badal said that top IT companies were vying to setup their units in 1700 acre located near international airport Mohali. Mr. Badal also showcased real estate opportunities in Ludhiana including 124 acre land near Ludhiana airport, 1500 acre integrated township near Ludhiana, 4500 acre entertainment hub that are set to put Ludhiana on the the world tourist map. He also offered prime real opportunities in Amritsar, Jalandhar and Patiala.

                Announcing Real Estate Policy by December 15 Mr. Badal said that the policy would include plethora of incentives including hassle free clearances, time bound ec clearance, uniform code for all cities, unlimited heights besides rationalising charges. Mr. Badal said that Punjab Government always had a massive response its real estate schemes as received 3.25 lakh applications for 4000 properties in Aero City and 1.25 lakh for 807 properties in Mullanpur.

                Earlier addressing the investors Mr. N.K. Sharma, Chief Parliamentary Secretary industry gave salient features of various policies of Punjab Government.

                CEOs of Oscar Group of Companies Mumbai, Omaxe Group, Shipra Group, Ashiana Homes, Assotech Limited, ATS Infrastructure, Aegis Center Point Developers, Shivalik Group, Savvy Infrastructure and Ganesh Housing Corporation from Ahmedabad, Omaxe from NCR, BBC Infrastructure from Gaziabad, Mahindra SEZ and Lifespaces, Earth Infrastructure, Janpath Estates, Emmaar Group, Ansal Lotus, Majestic, Aerian R Group, Innovative Group, Ambience Group, Arihant Builders, Gold Coast, Fortune Multitech, TDI Infrastructure, Eros Group,  Paramount Group and Aliwadi and Co, Parshavnath Group and Kumar Urban Development from Pune. were offering full support to their initiatives of Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal and were coordinated with state government officials present on the occasion to fine tune their investment opportunities in various regions of Punjab.

                Earlier Mr. Lalit Kumar Jain, President CREDAI appreciated the initiatives of Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal and Mr. Pardeep Jain proposed vote of thanks. Prominent amongst those present on the occasion included Mr. S.K. Sandhu, Principal Secretary Housing and Urban Development, Mr. P.S. Aujla, Principal Secretary PWD, Mr. Manvesh Singh Sidhu Chief Administrator PUDA and Chief Administrators of All development authorities of Punjab.

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SUKHBIR MOURNS THE DEATH OF SHIV SENA SUPREMO BAL THACKERY

CHANDIGARH, NOVEMBER 17:
Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal, Punjab Deputy Chief Minister expressed shock at the demise of Shiv Sena Chief Mr. Bal Thackery, who died in Mumbai today after a prolonged illness.

                In a condolence message, Mr. Badal said that in the death of Mr. Bal Thackery, the nation has lost a leader, whose contribution in giving distinct identities to regional parties would be remembered by all. He said that Mr. Thackery inculcated a sense of patriotism amongst our youth by communicating with them in their dialect.

                Sharing heartfelt sympathies with Mr. Udhav Thackery and other members of bereaved family, Mr. Badal prayed to the Almighty to give peace to the departed soul and strength to them to bear this irreparable loss.  
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CHUNNI LAL BHAGAT MOURNS THE SAD DEMISE OF BAL THACKERY

CHANDIGARH, NOVEMBER 17:
Punjab Local Bodies Minister Mr. Chunni Lal Bhagat today expressed profound grief and sorrow over the passing away of Shiv Sena Supermo Mr. Bal Thackery, who died in Mumbai today after a prolonged illness.
In a condolence message, Mr. Bhagat said that the death of Mr. Bal Thackery, the nation has lost a leader, whose contribution in giving distinct identities to regional parties would be remembered by all. Mr. Bhagat also shared his heartfelt sympathies with the members of the bereaved family and prayed to the Almighty to give strength and courage to bear this loss and grant peace to the departed soul.

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ENTRANCE TEST FOR JEs IN IRRIGATION DEPARTMENT POSTPONED

CHANDIGARH, NOVEMBER 17:
Entrance test for the direct recruitment of 150 Junior Engineers in Irrigation Department, Punjab, scheduled for November 18, has been postponed for departmental reasons.
An official spokesperson of the irrigation department said that the Irrigation Department would intimate the next date for the entrance test later on. He said that the department has instructed the candidates to visit C-DAC’s website time to time.
It is pertinent to mention that the irrigation department had sought applications to fill the 150 posts of JEs, out of which 120 JEs would be recruited from civil, 25 from mechanical and 5 JEs from electrical trade.
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BADAL CONSTITUTES A TECHNICAL COMMITTEE TO REVIEW FARMERS ISSUES OF RAJPURA

Chandigarh, November 16-
            Punjab Chief Minister Mr Parkash Singh Badal today constituted a technical committee under the chairmanship of Deputy Commissioner Fatehgarh Sahib to review and resolve various issues related to the width of the passages, laying of irrigation water pipes, demarcation of land etc., of the farmers whose land was acquired by Nabha Power Limited for the construction of Railway line to the under construction Thermal Power plant at Rajpura.
            The Chief Minister gave assurance to a deputation of farmers led by General Secretary of the Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) Prof. Prem Singh Chandumajra that all their grievances would be redressed on priority. He asked the technical committee which also includes Technical Advisor to Chief Minister Lieutenant General BS Dhaliwal, representatives of Revenue, Irrigation and Drainage departments besides the representatives of the farmers to review the situation at the earliest. Mr Badal also advised the representatives of Nabha Power Limited to take appropriate actions as per the recommendations of the committee.
Reiterating the firm commitment of SAD-BJP government for the welfare of the farmers, Mr Badal said that government would ensure the welfare of these farmers at all costs. The Chief Minister asked the company to repair all the village roads which were damaged due to the movement of their heavy vehicular traffic besides providing employment to atleast one member of the family on priority whose land was acquired.         
Prominent amongst those present on the occasion included Special Principal Secretary to the Chief Minister Mr Gaggandip Singh Brar, Secretary Power Mr Anirudh Tiwari, Deputy Commissioner Patiala Mr GK Singh, Deputy Commissioner Fathegarh Sahib Mr Yashveer Mahajan and Joint General Manager of Nabha Power Limited Mr JS Gill. The members of deputation included Mr Baljeet Singh Bhutta, Master Mahinder Singh, Mr Sher Singh and Mr Harwinder Singh.    

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Congress condemns the arrest of Sh Kuljit Singh Nagra MLA Fatehgarh Sahib at the behest of Chief Minister Punjab.
                As we are aware, an important meeting regarding the Rajpura Thermal Plant acquisition was summoned by the CM today at his residence in Chandigarh. Instead of involving the local elected representatives and Congress MLA Sh. Nagra, the CM illegitimately and bypassing official functioning invited Sh. Prem Singh Chandumajra to participate in the said meeting that included Deputy Commissioner’s of Fatehgarh Sahib and Patiala, farmers, other senior officers and representatives of L&T company.
            The congress MLA in order to protest this gross unconstitutional move decided to hold a peaceful ‘Dharna’ outside the residence of the CM at Chandigarh. Acting on the instructions of the CM the Chandigarh Police arrested the MLA after taking him to Sector 3 Police Station.
            The entire episode is nothing but the murder of democracy, breakdown of the constitution and muzzling the voice of elected representatives by none less than the CM.
            Therefore, the congress condemns this wrongful, illegitimate and unconstitutional move of Sh. Badal and seeks the immediate release of Sh. Nagra MLA. The congress also urges the CM to tender a public apology for this dictatorial and high handed move.
1.     Sukhpal Singh Khaira, Ex-MLA
2.     Randip Singh Nabha, MLA
3.     Navtej Singh Cheema, MLA
4.     Gurkirat Singh Kotli, MLA
5.     Bharat Bhushan Ashu, MLA
6.     Ripjit Singh Brar, Ex-MLA
7.     Jit Mohinder Singh Sidhu, MLA
8.     Suriderpal Singh Sibia, Ex-MLA

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Congress questions Mittal’s stand on Chief Parliamentary Secretaries

CHANDIGARH: Punjab Congress today questioned the stand of the Health Minister Madan Mohan Mittal on the status of the Chief Parliamentary Secretaries. It also condemned him for telling the police not to take any notice of the CPS Dr Navjot Kaur Sidhu’s directions about malpractices in the health department.
In a statement issued here today PCC vice president Rana KP asked as how could Mittal question the status of the CPS saying him he should better explain as for what purpose they have been appointed. He pointed out, appointment of the CPS is a government decision and Mittal as a member of the cabinet holds collective responsibility. “Either he has been wrong at the time of assenting to CPS posts or his wrong now by denying them the respect, dignity and authority”, Rana remarked.
The Congress leader also condemned Mittal for asking police not to take any cognizance of the complaints by Ms Sidhu. He wondered, “how can Mittal say that?”  The police are supposed to take cognizance of any and all the wrong doings and illegal activities. “What to speak of a CPS or an MLA, they are supposed to listen to the common man?” he pointed out, while maintaining that the health minister had crossed all the limits of propriety that come with a ministerial portfolio.

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ENSURE EXEMPLARY PUNISHMENT TO THE PERPETRATORS OF MURDEROUS ATTACK ON SAD LEADERS AND WORKERS -  CM TO TEJENDRA KHANNA

CHANDIGARH NOVEMBER 16:
            Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today called upon the New Delhi Lt. Governor Mr. Tejendra Khanna to ensure exemplary punishment in accordance with law to the perpetrators of murderous attack on SAD leaders and workers at Gurdwara Rakab Ganj Sahib on Thursday.

            In a letter to Mr. Khanna, the Chief Minister sought his attention also to the manner in which the administration had failed to act decisively against the assaulters of the SAD members.  The Chief Minister urged Mr. Khanna to use his good office to dissuade the Delhi government from going ahead with its proposed move to sabotage the will of the Sikh masses and subverting the spirit and intent of the Supreme Court orders through an amendment aimed at changing the electoral procedure. 
             Showing deep anguish over the tragic case of violence at Gurdwara Rakab Ganj Sahib, Mr. Badal apprised the Lt. Governor that the members and goons belonging to the group led by Mr. Paramjit Singh Sarna, currently President, DSGMC, attacked and seriously wounded peaceful and law-abiding members of the Shiromani Akali Dal, including the president of our Delhi unit, Mr. Manjit Singh G.K.   He in fact had a providential escape as Mr. GK was made the target of a murderous assault by the Sarna group.  Mr. Badal also referred to the newspaper reports and photographs of the incident, showing Mr. Manjit Singh bleeding profusely in the head and face. Several other members of our unit also received serious injuries as a result of this murderous assault, the Chief Minister revealed to Mr. Khanna.

Mr. Badal further informed that the root cause of this tragic incident was a highly provocative move of the Delhi Government to interfere in the religious affairs of the Sikhs through a proposed amendment to the electoral procedure of the DSGMC.  This was in complete defiance of the letter and spirit of the orders of the Supreme Court of India, directing that elections to the DSGMC be held in December this year.  But the Delhi government was out to sabotage this order to help its stooges for narrow political ends, ahead of assembly elections in Delhi.
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STOP DELHI GOVERNMENT TO MEDDLE IN THE RELIGIOUS AFFAIRS OF SIKH COMMUNITY: BADAL WRITES TO PM

CHANDIGARH NOVEMBER 16:

            Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today sought personal intervention of the Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh to stop the Delhi government from going ahead with its dangerous move to interfere in the religious affairs of the Sikh Community.
            In a letter to the Prime Minister, Mr. Badal urged him to ensure that elections to the Delhi Sikh Gurdwara Management Committee (DSGMC) were held in accordance with the letter and spirit of the directions of the Supreme Court.               
             Expressing deep anguish over the happenings in Gurdwara Rakab Ganj Sahib yesterday, Mr. Badal apprised the Prime Minister that the incident was a direct consequence of the chain of events unleashed by the totally unjustified and provocative move of the Delhi government to interfere in the religious affairs of the Sikhs through a proposed amendment to the electoral procedure in the Delhi Sikh Gurdwara Management Committee.
Mr. Badal urged the Prime Minister to recall that he had drawn his kind attention to this very serious issue and had expressed apprehensions in the minds of the Sikhs all over the world that this could become a flashpoint for a series of most unhappy events. "Unfortunately, my pleas remained unattended.  Yesterday's events have further confirmed the fears in the minds of the Sikh masses that the Congress government in Delhi is bent upon creating problems for the community for narrow political ends. This is a dangerous development and does not augur well for future" read the letter.
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• RICH TRIBUTES PAID TO KARTAR SINGH SARABHA ON HIS 97TH MARTYRDOM ANNIVERSARY
• BADAL TO CALL ON PM FOR SEEKING MARTYRS STATUS FOR KARTAR SINGH SARABHA
• BLAMES SARNA FOR PRE-PLANNED ATTACK ON MEMBERS OF SAD
• PUNJAB - THE MOST PEACEFUL STATE IN THE COUNTRY
• SLAMS CENTRE FOR ERODING FEDERAL STRUCTURE

SARABHA (LUDHIANA) NOVEMBER 16:
            Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today said that he would soon take up the matter with the Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh to declare Shaheed Kartar Singh Sarabha as a national martyr. 
            Addressing a gathering after paying floral tributes to the great martyr Kartar Singh Sarabha on his 97th martrydom anniversary here at his native village, Mr. Badal said that he was taken aback when it was brought to his notice by the Kartar Singh Sarabha Charitable Trust that the GoI had not yet declared Shaheed Kartar Singh Sarabha as a national martyr.  Mr. Badal said that he would soon write to Prime Minister on this issue and subsequently call on him to get this matter resolved on the highest priority because not only the Punjabis even the countrymen and the people across the globe were well aware about the supreme sacrifice made by this great son of the soil.  He said that the glorious sacrifice of Shaheed Kartar Singh Sarabha was not less than the nation's any other great martyrs like Shaheed Bhagat Singh, Shaheed Udham Singh, Lala Lajpat Rai, henceforth it was not only unjustified but also undesirable to deny the status of national martyr to Shaheed Kartar Singh Sarabha.
Recalling the supreme sacrifices made by several known and unknown martyrs and heroes, Mr. Badal lauded the unprecedented and unique contribution of Punjabis in the national freedom struggle.    He mentioned that though the Punjabis constituted only 2% of the country’s population but their immense contribution in the freedom struggle could never be ignored because more than 80% of freedom fighters who laid down their lives or imprisoned were Punjabis. He said that it was a matter of great pride and honour that all the prominent movements associated with Independence struggle like Babbar Akali Movement, Kuka Lehar and Ghadar Lehar were sphere headed from Punjab.   Mr. Badal pointed out that our freedom fighters had laid down their lives for the welfare of our countrymen but it was the irony of fate that their aspirations had not yet been cherished because they dreamt of an Independent India free from the maladies of illiteracy, unemployment and starvation.  He lamented that the Centre had miserably failed to realize the dreams of our national heroes even after 65 years of independence. 
To pay a befitting tribute to the Punjabis for their immense contribution in the country's freedom struggle, the Punjab government has decided to set up a world class ‘Jang-e-Azaadi Memorial’ over an area of 25 acre at Kartarpur in Jalandhar district.  This state-of-the-art memorial which would come up within next two years would not only showcase the rich legacy of our great heroes and martyrs who got our motherland free from the shackles of British imperialism but also help in imbibing the spirit of nationalism and patriotism amongst our future generations.  Besides this the SAD-BJP government has also made relentless efforts to enliven our rich historical and cultural legacy  history by constructing rare monuments like Wadda Galughara at Kup Rohiran in Sangrur district, Chhota Galughara at Chamb Kahnuwan in Gurdaspur district and Baba Banda Singh Bahadur War Memorial at Chapar Chiri in Mohali district. 
Responding to the demands raised by the MLA Dakha Mr. Manpreet Singh Ayali, the Chief Minister invited him to come at Chandigarh so that these demands could be fulfilled.  These demands included starting of 10+2 classes in Medical stream to enable the students to seek admission in the local dental college, ayurvedic college and nursing college, to declare 16 November as Gazetted holiday on the martyrdom day of Shaheed Kartar Singh Sarabha and grant of Rs.25 lakh for the pavement of streets and drains etc. 
Later talking to the media persons, the Chief Minister decried the partisan and impartial role of Congress in the recent clash between the members of Shiromani Akali Dal (Badal) and Delhi Sikh Gurdwara Management Committee (DSGMC) outside Gurdwara Rakabganj in the national Capital.  He said that it was highly deplorable that the Congress was meddling in the religious affairs of the Sikhs despite our repeated assertions to desist them from such politically motivated tactics which were mainly focused to delay the DSGMC elections despite the Supreme Court's orders to ensure that general elections to the post of members of the Delhi Sikh Gurdwara Management Committee were to be completed by December 31, 2012 positively.   He accused the President DSGMC Paramjit Singh Sarna for this pre-planned attack on members of SAD with the support of Congress. 
On the clandestine move of DSGMC to introduce direct elections, Mr. Badal said that there was no such provision either in the apex body of Sikhs i.e. Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC), Amritsar and/or any religious or other body in India. Similarly, even there was no provision for a direct election of
a President in any of the elected constitutional bodies in the country, right from the office of the President of India, the Prime Minister down to the Panchayats.
            Asked to comment on the possibility of revival of terrorism in the state, Mr. Badal categorically said that Punjab was the most peaceful state in the country and there was perfect communal harmony, amity and brotherhood. 
            To another question regarding the autonomy to states, Mr. Badal bemoaned that the Congress led UPA government was gradually encroaching upon the rights of the states thereby eroding the federal structure and paving a way for unitary one, which was not only unconstitutional but also unethical.  He said that the states had to now look upon the Centre for even petty demands like sanctioning of drinking water schemes and link roads.    He blamed the Centre for faulty planning down the line which was reflected in mass unemployment, illiteracy, inflation and corruption.  He said that the Congress had completely ruined the state agriculture due to its discriminatory policies, adding that he mentioned that the prices of agriculture inputs like fertilizers, diesel, seeds etc. were fixed by Centre and even MSP was also determined by them.  He said that state like Punjab, in which nearly 70% people were engaged in agriculture, had been blatantly ignored by the Centre and they have absolutely no say in such matters to safeguard their interests. 
            Prominent amongst others who spoke on the occasion included Speaker Punjab Vidhan Sabha Mr. Charanjit Singh Attwal, PWD (B&R) Minister Mr. Sharanjit Singh Dhillon, Advisor to Chief Minister Mr. Mahesh Inder Singh Grewal, Chairman SSS Board Mr. Shanta Singh Umedpuri, Mr. Manpreet Singh Ayali, Mr. Darshan Singh Shivalik and Mr. SR Kaler (all MLAs).

PUNJAB INITIATES PROCESS OF SIDE DRAIN AT HOSHIARPUR

CHANDIGARH, NOVEMBER 16: The Punjab Government has started the process of ‘Side Drain’ at Hoshiarpur on Jalandhar-Hoshiarpur-Dharamshala National Highway-70, which would be completed with a total cost of Rs. 3.68 crore.
          A spokesman of Public Works Department said that residents of Hoshiarpur City and its surrounding areas have been facing problems due to rain waters and the state government has initiated the process of constructing ‘side drain’ keeping in view to resolve this long pending issue of the area. He said that on both sides of Jalandhar-Hoshiarpur-Dharamshala National Highway-70, a 4400 meter long side drain would be constructed and the construction would be completed within six months after allotment of the work.  
          He said that approved agencies can get more information from the official website of the department http://eprocpbwd.gov.in and 0172-6626667-68.

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CHECK DAMS BE CONSTRUCTED IN KANDI AREA TO PROMOTE DRIP IRRIGATION: THANDAL
CHANDIGARH, NOVEMBER 16:
The Punjab government has decided to construct check dams in the Kandi region of the state to solve the irrigation problems, besides developing this area as food processing and hurbal hub of the country.
Disclosing this here today, Mr. Sohan Singh Thandal, Chief Parliamentary Secretary, Irrigation said that due to the sub-mountainous region, this Kandi area is lagging behind in the agriculture sector. He said that to solve this problem, check dams would be constructed in 28 villages of Mukerian Sub Division.
He said that under the pilot project conceived by the Punjab Government drip irrigation would be promoted in the region to encourage farmers to cultivate crops like Mango, Amla, Aloe vera and others which could substantially supplement the income of the farmers. Mr. Thandal further said that the government has also been mobilizing its resources to develop this Kandi region as the “Herbal hub” of the country.

Mr. Thandal said that two nurseries would also be established in the region by state Horticulture Department and Forest Department for providing better quality saplings and seeds.
            Mr. Thandal said that the state government was also focusing on developing the Kandi area as the 'hub of food processing industry' for which a comprehensive plan has been approved by government. He said that the farmers of this area would soon become trendsetters by availing the modern techniques and facilities of food processing and they would be able to ensure optimum utilization of their products like Mango, Mausami, Orange, Amla and others herbs.
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GOVERNOR ADMINISTERS OATH TO JUSTICE (RETD.) J.S. SEKHON AS LOKPAL, PUNJAB

Chandigarh, November 16: The Punjab Governor and Administrator, UT, Chandigarh, Mr. Shivraj V. Patil administered the oath of allegiance to Mr. Justice (Retd.) J.S. Sekhon as Lokpal, Punjab at a brief but impressive ceremony today held at Punjab Raj Bhavan.
         Earlier, the Punjab Chief Secretary, Mr. Rakesh Singh sought the permission of the Governor to start the swearing in ceremony. Soon after being sworn in Mr. Justice (Retd.) J.S. Sekhon signed the oath, which was counter signed by the Governor.
           Punjab Chief Minister, Mr. Parkash Singh Badal,  senior leaders of political parties, Mr. M.P. Singh, Principal Secretary to Governor, Mr. S.K. Sandhu, Principal Secretary to Chief Minister, Mr. Ganggandip Singh Brar, Special Principal Secretary to Chief Minister, Mr. P.S. Aujla, Special Principal Secretary to Chief Minister, Mr. S.S. Channy, Principal Secretary Industries, Mr. K.B.S. Sidhu, Principal Secretary Irrigation,  senior civil and police officers, members of the journalists fraternity and the invitees from all over the State attended the ceremony.
           The family members, friends and well wishers of Mr. Justice (Retd.) Sekhon were also present in the swearing in ceremony.
High-tea was also served to the guests at the Punjab Raj Bhavan after the ceremony.

PUNJAB FARMERS TO GET SUBSIDISED WHEAT SEEDS

CHANDIGARH: NOVEMBER 16: Punjab Government has been providing a subsidy of Rs. 500 per quintal on certified wheat seeds to the farmers of the state.

          Disclosing this here today a spokesman of the Punjab Government said that subsidized seeds were available at the Sale Centers of Agriculture Department including Punjab Agro, Cooperative Societies, IFFCO, KARIBCO and N.S.C. He said that the variety of seeds, which would be purchased from private seed producers, including P.B.W-550, P.B.W-502, and D.B.W-17 would be provided to the farmers with a subsidized price of Rs. 1500 per quintal and Rs. 600 of per bag containing 40kg, while the other varieties including P.B.W-621, P.B.W-509 would be provided at the cost of Rs. 1550 per quintal and Rs. 620 per bag of 40 kg.
          The spokesman said that for further queries farmers can contact at phone numbers in districts Amritsar-2502527, Barnala-243709, Fridkot-250058, Fathegarh Sahib-232277, Ferozepur-241458, Gurdaspur-221261, Hoshiarpur-222102, Jalandhar-2225005., Kapurthala-225782, Ludhiana-2252757, Mansa-2214774, Ropar-222370, Sangrur-234220, Ajitgarh-2217523 and Tarntarn-222458.
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PUNJAB TRANSFERS 18 SPs

Chandigarh, November 16: The Punjab government today issued transfer orders of 18 SPs and directed them to join their new postings with immediate effect.
According to an official spokesman, Mr. Gurmit Singh, PPS, TP/75 has been posted as SP/CM Security, Punjab. Similarly, Mr. Mandhir Singh, PPS as SP/CM Security, Punjab, Mr. Gagan Ajit Singh, PPS as SP/CM Security, Punjab, Mr. Kuldip Kumar, PPS, 325/PR is attached with SSP, Mansa, Mr. Kuljit Singh, PPS, 772/PAP as SP, Patti, Mr. Anil Kumar, PPS, 1/J as SP, Dera Bassi, Mr. Gurnam Singh, PPS, 1029/PAP as Deputy Director (General), PPA Phillaur, Mr. Paramjit Singh Goraya, PPS, PR/47 as Assistant Commandant, 1st Commando Bn., Bahadurgarh, Patiala, Mr. Balbir Singh, PPS, TP/53 as SP, Special Investigation, Crime, Punjab, Chandigarh, Mr. Harbaz Singh, PPS as SP Crime, Punjab, Mr. Gurdial Singh, PPS, TP/22 as SP/Scheduled Castes and Weaker Section, Punjab, Chandigarh, Mr. S.P.S. Parmar, PPS as AIG/Crime Wing, Punjab, Chandigarh, Ms. Amrit Brar, PPS as AIG Traffic, Punjab, Chandigarh, Mr. Satnam Singh, PPS, 351/PAP as Assistant Commandant, 1st IRB, Patiala, Mr. Narinder Pal Singh, PPS, 90/PAP as AIG/Counter Intelligence, Bathinda, Mr. Gurmail Singh, PPS, JRT/101 as Assistant Commandant, 7th Bn., Jalandhar, Mr. Tejinder Singh, PPS, TP/70 as AIG/CI, Jalandhar and Mr. Darshan Singh, PPS, 1/PR as SP, Headquarters, SAS Nagar.
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12829099 TONNES PADDY PROCURED IN PUNJAB

Chandigarh, November 16 :
          Paddy Procurement is on full swing in Punjab. Government agencies and private millers procured more than 12829099  tonnes of paddy till last evening. The State Government has set up more than 1770  procurement centres and activated its total machinery to ensure smooth procurement of paddy.
 The spokesman of the Punjab government said that Out of total procurement of 12829099  tonnes of paddy in all the procurement centers of Punjab, Government agencies procured 12228951  tonnes of paddy till date whereas private traders procured 600148 tonnes of paddy. Till November 15, PUNGRAIN procured 3591739  tonnes (29.4%), MARKFED procured 2781027  tonnes (22.7%). whereas PUNSUP had procured 2801695 tonnes (22.9%) PSWC procured 1233888 tonnes (10.1%) whereas PAFC was able to procure 1264439 tonnes (10.3%) of paddy.The Central Government agency FCI had  been able to procure 556163 tonnes (4.5%). 
          The spokesman added that District Ludhiana with 1525323 tonnes of procurement was leading in procurement operations whereas District Sangrur  with 1456320  tonnes of procurement was at second slot and district Patiala with 1203284  tonnes of procurement ranked at third position.       
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RAJIV GANDHI SCHEME FOR EMPOWERMENT OF ADOLESCENT GIRLSIMPLEMENT IN SIX DISTRICTS OF THE PUNJAB-MITTAL

Chandigarh November 16:- Rajiv Gandhi Scheme for empowerment of adolescent girls implements in six districts of the Punjab aiming at the upliftment the health status of children, disclosing this here today Mr. Madan Mohan Mittal, Social Security, Women & Child Development, Health & Family Welfare Minister Punjab said that an amount of Rs. 16 crore had been allocated for the financial  year 2012-13. The scheme had been formed by merging Kishori Shakti Yojna and nutrition programme for adolescent girls. This scheme is being started in 6 districts of Punjab as a pilot project. Under this scheme government would provide nutrition to the girls at the age of 11-18 years and to uplift the social and economic status. "Kishori Shakti Yojna" would be implemented as before in remaining in 14 districts of the state.
          There are two components of the scheme, the first component relates to provide training to the adolescent girls and the expenditure would be 100% met by the Government of India. An amount of Rs. 205.20 lac has been released for the current financial year.
          The second component under the scheme relates to Nutrition to adolescent girls and the expenditure would be met in the ratio of 50:50 between centre and state government. Rs. 1600 lac  had been released for the current financial year under the scheme.

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YADAV POSTED AS AIGP PUBLIC INFORMATION

Chandigarh, November 16 :
          The Punjab Government today issued the posting/transfer order of one IPS officer in the state.
          Disclosing this here today a spokesman of the Punjab Government said that Mr. Pardeep Kumar Yadav IPS, AIGP/C.I Bathinda has been posted as AIGP/Public Information, Punjab Chandigarh against vacant post.
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ORDERS TO MENTION NAME AND DESIGNATION ON FILES TO BE SENT FOR CM's APPROVAL

CHANDIGARH, NOVEMBER 16: The Punjab Government has issued orders to all Financial Commissioners/Administrative Secretaries and   Principal Secretaries to mention their names and designations on files to be sent to Chief Minister for approval.

According to an official spokesman, it has been come to the notice of Chief Minister that some files were not containing the names and designations of the concerned officers while on some files there were no space has been left by the officers for noting. He said that according to fresh directions now the concerned officers, who would send the files for CM's approval, would also clearly mention their names and designations respectively. He also said that at least 1/3 space on the noting page should be available for the orders, necessary directions and signatures of the Chief Minister.