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PUNJAB GOVERNOR TO INAUGURATE HOSPITAL AT GHUDDA AND MEDICAL CHECKUP CAMP IN BADAL ON SEPTEMBER 22 AND 23
CHANDIGARH SEPTEMBER 14:
Punjab Governor Mr. Shivraj V.Patil would inaugurate the Sub-divisional Hospital at Ghudda in district Bathinda on September 22 and the Mega Medical Checkup Camp at Village Badal in Muktsar district on September 23.
Disclosing this here today a spokesperson of the CMO said that Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today called on Punjab Governor at Raj Bhawan this morning to request him for the inauguration of Sub-divisional Hospital at Ghudda and mega medical checkup camp at village Badal.
Acceding to the request of the Chief Minister, Mr. Patil consented to inaugurate the hospital at Ghudda as well as medical checkup camp at village Badal. Mr. Patil would also visit the Sports School, Government College and Remount Academy at Ghudda.
It may be recalled that the Punjab government is committed to provide the best of health care services to the total population of the State. These services are provided through a vast network of Primary, Secondary and Tertiary Care Centres.
The spokesperson further said that the state government through its continuous effort had provided State-of-the-Art health care services to the rural population. The State government has been setting up new health centres in the rural areas apart from the up-gradation of others. In the same series, a new Sub-divisional Hospital has been constructed at Ghudda in District Bathinda. In addition to this, efforts are also made to provide specialist and super-specialist health care services to the poor rural populations, who are unable to afford these services due to financial constraints. In order to provide these services at the doorstep of the poor rural population, a Mega Medical Checkup Camp is being organized at village Badal, on 23-24 September, 2012, where specialists and super-specialists from 14 disciplines, including Dentists would provide health services to more than 10,000 patients over two days. Laboratory Services, Medicines and General Health Awareness Services would also be part of this mega camp.
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CM URGES PAWAR FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE OF RS.5112 CRORE AS
SPECIAL CENTRAL ASSISTANCE
CHANDIGARH SEPTEMBER 14:
Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today urged the Union Minister of Agriculture Mr. Sharad Pawar for seeking his personal intervention to immediately provide Special Central Assistance of Rs.5112 crore to the state for bailing out its farming community from the crisis arisen out of drought like situation and in securing the food security of the nation.
In a letter to the Union Agriculture Minister, Mr. Badal said that Punjab had always been in the forefront for ensuring food security of the nation. Our state had been contributing about 40-50% of wheat and 30-35% of rice to the Central Pool for the last three decades. However, presently the State and its farmers had faced a serious natural calamity in terms of deficient monsoon rainfall and drought like situation prevailing in the State. The Punjab farmers were paying a heavy price in facing the on-going monsoon crisis and there was an urgent need to come to their rescue. Therefore, State and its farmers deserve a Comprehensive Relief Package in this hour of extraordinary crisis.
The Chief Minister also bemoaned that the recent hike in the prices of diesel by Rs.5 per liter had further accentuated the woes of the farmers who were already passing through difficult times due to non remunerative MSP coupled with continuous increase in the prices of agricultural inputs thereby rendering agriculture as non-profitable profession. Keeping in view these circumstances the beleaguered farming community of the state today felt totally neglected and dejected. The Chief Minister requested Mr. Pawar to impress upon the GoI to immediately release Special Central Assistance to the tune of Rs.5112 crore as per the memorandum submitted by the state government.
It may be recalled that the State Government had submitted a detailed proposal to mitigate the drought like conditions in Punjab during Kharif 2012 and providing a Special Central Assistance of Rs.5112.09 crore to Mr. Pawar on his visit to Chandigarh on August 10, 2012.
The Chief Minister apprised Mr. Pawar that the state Government had not received any response to this proposal so far. Mr. Badal further brought to the notice of Union Agriculture Minister that non availability of timely rainfall during the ensuing Kharif season had resulted in increased input costs and the farming community of the state was under tremendous stress. As per IMD, the cumulative monsoon in Punjab up to July 2012 had been deficit by 70% than normal and the state fell under Scanty Rainfall States (60 to 99), whereas during the months of August & September the cumulative monsoon rainfall had been deficit by about 55-60%. Although there had been some improvement in monsoon rainfall during the month of August-September, but as per IMD cumulative rainfall till 10th September 2012 was still deficit by 54% than normal rainfall and the state falls under Deficient Rainfall States (20 to 59). The water requirement of crops was highest during these months and the crippling monsoon rainfall deficit had put the state and the farming community under great financial stress.
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BADAL MONITORS PADDY PROCUREMENT ARRANGEMENTS FOR
KHARIF SEASON 2012-13
PROCUREMENT TO BEGIN FROM OCTOBER 1
CUSTOM MILLING POLICY FOR CURRENT KHARIF SEASON TO BE
ANNOUNCED SOON - KAIRON
CHANDIGARH SEPTEMBER 14:
Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today directed all the heads of the state procurements agencies and especially the General Manager FCI Punjab region to personally supervise the Paddy procurement operations across the state beginning from 1st October so as to ensure prompt lifting of paddy as per their allotted share of procurement.
Reviewing the arrangements of the Paddy procurement for the Kharif Season 2012-13 in the state, during a meeting held here at Punjab Bhawan, Mr. Badal said that all out efforts should be made to ensure smooth, hassle free and quick procurement of Paddy on one hand and facilitate the farmers in getting timely payment of their produce on the other. He categorically said that farmers of the state should not be put to any inconvenience for the sale of their produce in the mandis.
Meanwhile, Commissioner Food & Civil Supplies and Managing Director PUNGRAIN Mr. Satwant Singh Johal apprised the Chief Minister that elaborate arrangements had been made for the procurement of 150 lac MT of paddy against the expected arrival of 130 lac MT during the current Kharif season. The state government has allotted PUNGRAIN 37.50 lac MT (25%), MARKFED 33 lac MT (22%), PUNSUP 24.50 lac MT (23%), Punjab State Warehousing Corporation 16.50 lac MT (11%), Punjab Agro Industries 13.50 lac MT (9%) and FCI 15 lac MT (10%) as its share of Paddy procurement. According to state agriculture department 163.68 lac MT of Paddy production was expected from an area of 28.10 lakh hectares sown under crop this year. The procurement agencies would purchase paddy at the MSP of Rs.1250 per quintal for Common and Rs.1280 per quintal for Grade ‘A’ during the current Kharif season against Rs.1080 and Rs.1110 per quintal for these varieties during 2011-12. As many as 1770 mandis/purchase centers have been notified for the procurement of paddy in the state.
It was also informed in the meeting that the cash credit limit amounting to Rs.22509.90 crore for the procurement of 135 lac MT of paddy by the state procurement agencies had already been sent to the finance department for onward transmission of Reserve Bank of India and the limit was likely to be approved by RBI much ahead of the onset of procurement season.
Taking part in the deliberations, Food & Civil Supplies Minister Mr. Adesh Partap Singh Kairon informed the Chief Minister that he was in constant touch with the Director General Supplies & Disposal Ministry of Food & Civil Supplies GoI and Jute Commissioner for the adequate supply of gunny bags. He also underscored the need to advice the farmers to get the prescribed form ‘J’ from the commission agents positively after the sale of their produce. Mr. Kairon also said that the custom milling policy for the kharif season 2012-13 was under active consideration of the state government and would be announced shortly. He further informed that the state government had also urged the GoI to liquidate the wheat stock procured in ones used bags and stored by the state agencies in mandi yards during Rabi Marketing Season 2012-13 so as to ensure smooth procurement of Paddy.
Prominent amongst others who attended the meeting included Chief Parliamentary Secretary Parkash Chand Garg, Financial Commissioner Development GS Sandhu, Principal Secretary to CM SK Sandhu, Special Principal Secretary to CM KJS Cheema, MD Punjab Agro Kirandeep Singh Bhullar, MD Warehousing Corporation AS Bains, Secretary Mandi Board Mohinder Singh Kainth, MD PUNSUP Preetdev Singh Shergill and MD MARKFED Dr.GS Sra.
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BADAL FOR RELEASE OF WELFARE FUNDS TO PANCHAYATS AND EXECUTIVE AGENCIESTHROUGH ELECTRONIC TRANSFER
ASKS CS TO ISSUE DIRECTIONS IN THIS REGARD
CHANDIGARH SEPTEMBER 14:
In a bid to bring far more transparency and accountability in the smooth implementation of the various welfare schemes in the public interest, the Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today decided to release funds under these schemes to the concerned village panchayats and other executive agencies through Electronic transfer instead of the existing cheque system.
Disclosing this here today a spokesperson of the CMO said that Mr. Badal has asked the Chief Secretary to issue necessary directions in this regard expeditiously so that the payments under various welfare schemes could be disbursed promptly in the safe hands of the beneficiaries in a transparent manner.
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DIRECTOR GENERAL CIMMYT DR. LUMPKIN CALLS ON CM
BADAL SEEKS EXPERTISE FROM CIMMYT TO DEVELOP HIGH YIELDING VARIETIES OF KHARIF MAIZE IN PUNJAB
CHANDIGARH SEPTEMBER 14:
Director General CIMMYT (The International Maize and Wheat Improvement Center) Dr. Thomas Lumpkin today called on Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal to update him about the progress of upcoming Borlaug Institute for South Asia’ (BISA) in Ludhiana.
Dr. Lumpkin met the Chief Minister here at his official residence this morning and sought his personal intervention to resolve certain issues related to setting up BISA at the level of state government and GoI expeditiously. Mr. Badal assured him that he would soon convene a special meeting of senior officers of the Government and VC PAU Ludhiana to sort out all the pending issues to ensure timely completion of the prestigious institute. Mr. Badal also asked Dr. Lumpkin to flag all the important issues to be taken up with the GoI in writing so that he could personally follow up the matter with the Ministries of Agriculture and Finance.
Dr. Lumpkin informed Mr. Badal that the BISA would herald a second green revolution in terms of diversification of agriculture in Punjab by motivating the local farmers to go for value added crops like maize and oil seeds ultimately helping them to come out of the rut of wheat-paddy cycle. Showing deep concern over the depleting water in the state, Dr. Lumpkin said BISA could play a pro active role to encourage the farmers to grow crops which needed less water like Maize, pulses and Oil seeds as compared to Paddy..
The Chief Minister evinced keen interest in the cultivation of high yielding varieties of Kharif Maize developed by CIMMYT. Dr. Lumpkin told the Chief Minister that CIMMYT had two specialized global programmes: the Global Wheat Program and the Global Maize Program. Both programs specialized in breeding varieties of their respective crop that were high yielding and adapted to withstand specific environmental constraints, such as infertile soils, drought, insects, and diseases. Mr. Badal urged Dr. Lumpkin to recommend special varities of kharif Maize so that the maximum area could be brought under the cultivation of maize. The Chief Minister apprised Dr. Lumpkin at present 1.5 lac hectares of land was under maize in Punjab and we have proposed it to further enhance to 7.5 lac hectares, thereby bringing more area of 6 lac hectares under maize cultivation to give much needed impetus towards diversification of Agriculture.
Mr. Badal hoped that BISA would go a long way towards the much required second push for Green Revolution in the agrarian state where the traditional agriculture had already reached at a point of saturation.
Prominent amongst other who attended the meeting included Financial Commissioner Development Mr. G.S.Sandhu, Special Principal Secretary to Chief Minister Mr. Gaggandip Singh Brar, MD Milkfed Dr. Balwinder Singh Sidhu, besides Director Research South Asia Dr. Etienne Duveiller, Country Head Dr. Ajai Kumar and International Research Scientist PAU Mr. H.S. Sidhu.
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SUKHBIR APPROVES NEW SET UP FOR URBAN POLICING
· MORE FORCES TO BE DEPLOYED IN CORPORATION CITIES
· ALL CITIES TO BE UNDER CCTV CAMERA SURVEILLANCE WITH IN 3 MONTHS
· ASKS TO LAUNCH A SUSTAINED CAMPAIGN AGAINST PETTY CRIMES AND SNATCHING
Chandigarh, September 14: The Punjab Deputy Chief Minister Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal today approved the new comprehensive plan of effective urban policing that would focus on increasing the presence of police personnel at the vulnerable points thereby instilling confidence among the masses.
Reviewing the law and order situation with the DGP Mr. Sumedh Singh Saini and senior officers of Punjab police here today, Mr. Badal said that the new plan focuses on effective deployment of police personnel in the urban areas, optimum utilization of existing man power for law and order purposes and ordered that more police personnel should be added to urban areas to keep a strict check on petty crimes. Mr. Badal said that the DGP himself would monitor the effective deployment of police personnel in the urban areas and review the situation on weekly basis.
Asking for coordinated approach between different districts, Mr.Badal said that each district police chief would share the intelligence about the bad elements active in the region and crime and intelligence wings would monitor the movement patter of criminals to preempt their evil designs. Mr. Badal said that he was concerned about the petty crimes as they create scare amongst the general public and said that Police effective deployment was imperative to create fear of law in the minds of criminals.
Asking time bound competition of intensive CCTV surveillance project of urban areas, Mr. Badal said that we must improve our investigative skills to check the crime and underline the need for improving conviction rate.
Prominent amongst those who were present in the meeting included ADGP Intelligence Mr. Hardeep Singh Dhillon and Commissioner of Police from all commissionerates.
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VACANT SEATS OF NRI QUOTA IN MBBS/BDS BE FILLED IN A TRANSPARENT MANNER: CHUNNI LAL BHAGAT
· MERIT LIST OF PMET 2012 AND GUIDELINES OF MCI AND DCI WOULD BE THE BASE FOR ADMISSIONS
CHANDIGARH, SEPTEMBER 14:
The Medical Education and Research Minister, Mr. Chunni Lal Bhagat today reiterated that the vacant seats of NRI quota in MBBS/BDS courses would be filled through fair and transparent manner.
He said that while filling these vacant seats, utmost care would be taken and strict adherence of the guidelines of Medical Council of India (MCI) and Dental Council of India (DCI) would be ensured. He said that the department has started the process of filling vacant seats has been started pursuing the directions of Chief Minister, Punjab Mr. Parkash Singh Badal.
Mr. Bhagat said that the admission against these vacant seats would be made following the merit list of PMET-2012. He further said that an advertisement would be inserted in the newspapers to apprise the candidate about the admission process. He said that if anybody found any loophole in the admission process or violation of the guidelines, he/she may contact Director, Medical Education and Research Department on Telephone No. 0172-2690817, 2690854 and FAX
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BATHINDA TO HOST NATIONAL MAYORS’ CONFERENCE ON SEPT 15
· CM WOULD BE THE CHIEF GUEST
CHANDIGARH, SEPTEMBER 14:
The Municipal Corporation, Bathinda would host national level Mayors’ Conference on September 15, 2012. Disclosing this, an official spokesman of Local Bodies Department said that in this 105th Indian Council of Mayors’ Conference, all the mayors in the country would participate. He said that Chief Minister, Mr. Parkash Singh Badal would inaugurate this conference, whereas Minister for Local Bodies, Mr. Chunni Lal Bhagat would grace the occasion as Guest of Honor. He said that Mr. Bhagat would also preside over the conference.
The spokesman further said that apart from the Mayor of Bathinda Municipal Corporation, Mayors of Amritsar, Jalandhar, Ludhiana and Patiala would also participate in this conference. He said that in this conference, discussions would held on the issues like; the problems created by unplanned expansions of urban sprawl. The dais would also make efforts to devise methodology to provide better infrastructure and daily basic amenities to the citizens.
He said that the gathering would also share their experiences in making metropolitan a better living place besides ensuring world class sanitation in order to maintain better health and hygiene to the citizens.
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HARDEEP SINGH DHILLON TO BE OFFICIAL SPOKESMAN OF PUNJAB POLICE
v TO BRIEF MEDIA DAILY AT 4 PM
v STEP TAKEN BY DEPUTY CHIEF MINISTER TO PROVIDE FACTUAL POSITION ON CRIME TO MEDIA
Chandigarh, September 14: The Punjab Deputy Chief Minister Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal today directed DGP Mr. Sumedh Singh Saini to appoint Mr. Hardeep Singh Dhillon, ADGP/Intelligence as spokesman of Punjab police.
The Deputy Chief Minister said that constant interaction with the press and feeding them factual position on the crime on daily basis was imperative for the Punjab Police. It was decided that Mr. Hardeep Singh Dhillon, ADGP/Intelligence would be available to the media on every working day at 4.00 pm in the newly set up Officers’ lounge at 6th floor of Punjab police headquarters.
He would be updating the media regarding the latest developments in the districts on crime scenario and would try to update the information of media persons so that the media could get factual position.
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CHANDIGARH, SEPTEMBER 14: The Punjab Government today directed the Education Department to take strict action against the teachers, who preferred to teach from guides instead of doing manual work on the blackboard in classrooms.
According to an official spokesman of Education Department that the necessary instructions have been issued to the concerned authorities to act against the teachers using guides during school hours. He said that it has been observed that students were forced to buy guides in some areas of the state as their teachers also uses guides in classrooms instead of using blackboards. He said that this has come to fore during the classes of mathematics.
The Spokesman said that now the school heads would be bound to ensure the use of blackboards and complete ban on use of guides by teachers. He said that the requisite instructions have been issued to all the District Education Officers in this regard.
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CM & DY. CM ENTRUSTS INVESTIGATION OF ALLEGED MISAPPROPRIATION OF PUBLIC MONEY TO VIGILANCE BUREAU
- SEEKS INVESTIGATION REPORT WITHIN FOUR WEEKS
Chandigarh, September 13
Taking cognizance of the seriousness of the alleged misappropriation of public funds and to ensure transparency and accountability in the state administration, the Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal and Deputy Chief Minister Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal today decided to entrust the enquiry in FIR No.175, dated 22-5-2012 under section 406, 409, 420, 467, 468, 471 and 120B and FIR No.285 dated 25-6-2012 under section 406, 409, 419, 420, 467, 468, 471 and 120B registered at Police Station Civil Lines, Amritsar to the State Vigilance Bureau.
Disclosing this here today a spokesperson of the Chief Minister’s Office said that the investigation under the said case had been transferred from the Punjab Police to Vigilance Bureau to ensure that the investigation was conducted in a free, impartial and transparent manner.
The investigation would be personally supervised by the Chief Vigilance Director Mr. Suresh Arora and he had been asked to submit the complete investigation report within four weeks. The Chief Minister reiterated that the law of the land would take its own course and any person found guilty in the case would not be spared.
The State Government was committed to eradicate corruption from the public life to instill the confidence and faith of the people in the state administration, the spokesperson added.
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TWO IAS OFFICERS TRANSFERRED
Chandigarh September 13:-
The Punjab Government today issued the transfer order of two IAS Officers in the state with immediate effect.
Disclosing this here today a spokesman of the Punjab Government said that Mrs. Ravneet Kaur IAS has been posted as Secretary Planning relieving Mr. Dalip Kumar IAS from this additional charge.
Likewise, Mr. Dilip Kumar IAS has been posted as Director Treasury & Accounts and in addition Secretary Finance against vacant post.
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NOTIFICATION FOR ADMISSION TO MBBS/BDS COURSES IN MEDICAL AND DENTAL COLLEGES FROM THE UNFILLED NRI SEATS ISSUED
Chandigarh, September 13
On the directions of Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal, the State Government today issued detailed guidelines for the admission to MBBS/BDS courses in Medical and Dental Colleges from the unfilled NRI seats.
Disclosing this here today, a spokesperson of the Chief Minister’s Office said that the notification in this regard had been issued by the Department of Medical Education & Research. The notification stipulated that the admissions would be strictly made on the basis of merit obtained in the PMET-2012 examination conducted by Baba Farid University of Health Sciences (BFUHS), Faridkot and eligibility percentage for these admissions would be as per the guidelines of the Medical Council of India/Dental Council of India. The concerned institutions would give wide publicity to these unfilled seats and would ensure the availability of application forms to the candidates in their institutions as well as BFUHS on the fee equal to the free charged by the University. The candidates would be free to deposit the application form either with the institutions or with the BFUHS. The applications received at the institutions and the University would be considered together for the selection and admission in a particular institution. The institution would conduct the counseling on the fixed date in consultation with BFUHS. The counseling/selection committee would include the nominee of the University and the Government.
Meanwhile, the BFUHS had also been asked to give wide publicity of this notification in the leading News Papers in the state highlighting the procedure. In case of any difficulty the candidate could approach the office of Directorate of Medical Education and Research whose Telephone No. is 0172-2690817, 2690854 and fax no. 0172-2690151, the spokesperson added.
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RS. 20 CRORE RELEASES FOR PURCHASE OF DAL UNDER ‘ATTA DAL’ SCHEME
Chandigarh, September 13
The Punjab Government today released Rs. 20 crore for the purchase of Dal under the ‘Atta Dal’ Scheme.
Disclosing this here today, a spokesperson of the Chief Minister’s Office said that PUNSUP-the nodal agency for the purchase of Dal under State Government’s flagship program of Atta Dal had already been floated tenders in the open market for its supply.
It may be recalled that State Government had already released of Rs. 200 crore for the purchase of Wheat under the scheme in April, 2012.
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ECI ISSUES SCHEDULE FOR SPECIAL SUMMARY REVISION IN VOTER LISTS
CHANDIGARH, SEPTEMBER 13
The Election Commission of India today issued detailed time schedule for the special summary revision in voter lists in the state of Punjab.
A Spokesperson of the Chief Electoral Officer Punjab, today said that the primary publication of voter lists would take place on October 1st ,2012 and people would be able to file claims and objections from October 1st to 31, 2012. Besides that on the 7, 14, and 21 October 2012, concerned BLOs and BLAs would also receive the claims and objections.
The Spokesperson further said that the persons who would attain the age of 18 years or more till the date of 01-01-2013 and also fulfilled all the required qualifications for a voter, could submit his/her application in the form no 6 with the Election Registration Officer or the officers designated by them. He further said that a person would have to deposit the application in form no 8 for revision and in Form no 7 for objections. NRIs have been asked to deposit the form no 6- A in the case of registration of voters in the voter list.
The ECI has also urged the qualified citizens to submit the Form no 6 along with the passport size photographs with the concerned Election Registration Officer or Booth Level Officers, to make their Photo Identity cards.
The ECI has also appealed the masses and all political parties to cooperate the concerned officers, so that all the qualified citizens could be registered as voters. He said that for any quarry, people should contact concerned District Election Officers, Election Registration Officer, Assistant Election Registration Officer, Election Tehsildars or Booth Level Officers.
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19th CENSUS OF LIVESTOCK IN PUNJAB TO START FROM SEPTEMBER 15: RANIKE
CHANDIGARH, SEPTEMBER 13:
The census of the livestock in Punjab would commence on September 15. For this project Rs.7.29 crore would be spent. This census would be completed till 15th October, 2012.
It was disclosed by Mr. Gulzar Singh Ranike, Minister for Animal Husbandry, Fisheries and Dairy Development after a meeting with senior officers of the department. He said that arrangements for the 19thlivestock census have been completed. He further said that for this task 5000 Veterinary Inspector, AIs and Counting Officer have been deputed besides 800 supervisors have also been pushed into this census work.
Mr. Ranike appealed the people of the state to coordinate with the government in this endeavor, so that rational policies for the development of dairy farming and welfare schemes for the livestock could be framed. He further said that with exact data of population of livestock in Punjab, such welfare schemes for the livestock could be implemented in right spirit.
Animal Husbandry Minister warned the officers and official of department against any laxity in the census process. He said that negligent officers would have to face the music.
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INFORMATION & PUBLIC RELATIONS DEPARTMENT, PUNJAB
PUNJAB GOVT. PERMITS DEGREE HOLDERS FOR THE POST OF JE IN IRREGATION DEPARTMENT
CHANDIGARH, SEPTEMBER, 13:
The Punjab government has accorded permission to all the degree holder candidates of the state to apply for the post of Junior Engineers in the irrigation department. The government has also extended the date to apply from 28 August to 25 September.
Disclosing this here today an official spokesman of the irrigation department said that previously as per the Punjab government guidelines only diploma holders were eligible for these posts. He said that some disgruntled degree holder candidates went to high court for seeking relaxation, which the court has accorded.
He further said that the Punjab government in pursuance of the court order extended relaxation to all the degree holders' candidates beside diploma holders. He said that the irrigation department has sought the applications to fill the 150 posts of JEs. He said that out of these Posts, 120 JEs would be recruited from civil, 25 from mechanical and 5 JEs from electrical trade. He said that the candidates could apply online through C-DAC website.
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VALTOHA WELCOMES THE DECISION OF DEPUTY CHIEF MINISTER
CHANDIGARH, SEPTEMBER 13:
Prof. Virsa Singh Valtoha, Chief Parliamentary Secretary, today welcomed the decision of Punjab Deputy Chief Minister Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal to include the battleship of Saragarhi in school syllabus. He said that with the implementation of this historic decision, our young generation would not only become aware about the history of Punjab but also be motivated towards the recruitment in Indian Army.
Meanwhile, Brig. Manjit Singh (Retd), Director Defence Services Welfare Department extended thanks to Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal for taking this significant decision.
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COUNSELING FOR 700 COMPUTER FACULTIES WOULD COMMENCE ON 28TH SEPTEMBER
CHANDIGARH, SEPTEMBER 13:
The Punjab Government has decided to complete the process of counseling for the recruitment of computer faculty till 30th September.
Disclosing this here today a spokesman of the Education Department said that the counseling for the 700 computer teachers would commence on 28 September and the last till 30th September 2012. He said that the written test for the teacher faculty has already been taken on 18th March, 2012 by Punjab ICT Education (PICTS). He also said that the merit of the qualified candidates has been uploaded on www.ssapunjab.org . He further said that the eligible candidates must report at Senior Secondary School Phase-3B1, Mohali from 28 September to 30 September as per the scheduled uploaded on the website. He said that the timing of the counseling would be 9:00AM to 5:00PM on 28th and 30the September. Whereas the counseling would start at 2:30 PM on 29th September, 2012.
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RUSSIAN REALTY GROUP CALLS ON SUKHBIR
· OFFERS TO INVEST IN INFRASTRUCTURE SECTOR IN PUNJAB
Chandigarh, September 12: Mr. Boris Kiperman and Mr. Kirill Klimov of CMI Development, one of Moscow’s premier real-estate developers today called on Punjab Deputy Chief Minister Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal here today offering to invest in infrastructure sector in state.
They informed that CMI Development with a portfolio of $3 billion in the private investments has executed most unique projects in the Moscow. They said that their multi-national team of professionals brings a wealth of development expertise and sophistication to its projects. They said that they were interested in investing in Punjab in the infrastructure and real-estate projects keeping in view Punjab’s focus on infrastructure sector.
Mr. Badal appreciating their interest said that Punjab was focusing on investing Rs.1 lac crore in infrastructure sector and he was seeking the execution of all these projects by international companies. He said that his main focus was timely execution of these projects besides strict control on quality of execution. He said that Punjab government would provide total support to international investors keen on investing in the state.
Prominent amongst those who were present in the meeting included Mr. P. S. Aujla, Principal Secretary to Deputy Chief Minister and Mr. Manvesh Singh Sidhu, Mr. Ajay Kumar Mahajan, Special Principal Secretaries to Deputy Chief Minister.
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Governments don’t survive by unleashing terror on opponents: Capt Amarinder
FATEHGARH CHURIAN (GRUDASPUR):
Punjab Pradesh Congress Committee President Capt Amarinder Singh today warned the Deputy Chief Minister Sukhbir Badal and the revenue minister Bikram Majithia against the arm-twisting tactics against their political opponents, particularly the Congress workers. He said, the governments which resort to such methods do not last long.
Addressing a well attended public meeting organized by the local MLA Tript Rajinder Singh Bajwa here today, Capt Amarinder pointed out, the Congress workers were still being targeted and victimized with false cases. He told Sukhbir and Majithia, the governments do not last forever and once Congress comes to power they will have to run for their life as people will be after them. Nobody will be prepared to provide them shelter even, he remarked, saying they will have to seek shelter somewhere else outside Punjab.
Warning the Akalis, particularly Sukhbir and Majithia against committing atrocities on the Congress workers, he said, the party will launch a “jail-bharo” movement in Punjab and fill all the jails in protest. “If they are so fond of putting Congressmen behind the bars we will flood the jails ourselves”, he asserted.
If they (the Akalis) think that they can finish the Congress by these arm-twisting tactics they are mistaken, he said, while remarking, “rather the resolve of the Congress workers gets further strengthened when they are targeted and victimized”.
The former Chief Minister said, before the elections, the Akalis had promised moon to people and cheated them voting into power. But, he pointed out, instead of delivering on those promises they have slapped punitive taxes on the people of Punjab which the Congress has been vigorously opposing.
Lashing out at the government, Capt Amarinder pointed out, the Akalis have always been claiming themselves to be the guardians and custodians of the farmers’ interests. But the farmers have realized as how much they have to suffer under the Akali rule as their crops are never lifted on time and when these are lifted a cut is charged by the jathedars and the inspectors in the mandis.
Speaking on the occasion, the Congress Legislative Party leader Sunil Jakhar said, the Akalis were always crying wolf over the alleged discrimination by the centre while they had got maximum grants from the government of India. He said, instead of utilizing these funds on welfare schemes these were being siphoned off and embezzled.
Prominent among those present on the occasion included PCC vice president Ashwani Sekhri, general secretary Fateh Jang Bajwa, district president Sukhjinder Randhawa, Aruna Chaudhary, Punjab Youth Congress president Vikram Chaudhary and others.
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CM DIRECTS TO FILL NRI VACANT SEATS ON PMET MERIT AS PER MCI & DCI GUIDELINES IN A TRANSPARENT MANNER
Chandigarh, September 12
Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today directed the Medical Education & Research Department to immediately ensure the filling of vacant NRI Quota MBBS and BDS seats in all the Medical and Dental Colleges in the state on the basis of PMET merit under the guidelines issued by Medical Council of India (MCI) and Dental Council of India (DCI) in a transparent manner.
Disclosing this here today a spokesperson of the Chief Minister’s Office said that presently there were 63 seats of MBBS and 175 seats of BDS lying vacant under the NRI quota in various Medical and Dental Colleges in the state, where as Baba Farid University of Health Sciences, Faridkot would conduct NRI quota seats counseling for MBBS on 14th and for BDS on 15th September. He also mentioned that only 14 application under NRI quota were being received till date.
The spokesperson said that in the view of these orders of Chief Minister, all seats of NRI quota remained vacant after 15th must be filled as per the PMET merit list under the guidelines issued by Medical Council of India (MCI) and Dental Council of India (DCI).
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CAPTAIN’S CAKE IS NOT WORTH A CANDLE, BETTER COME UP WITH NEW RECIPE-MAJITHIA
· ANTI CAPTAIN PROTEST HAD MORE NUMBERS THAN THAT OF CAPTAIN’S DRAMA
CHANDIGARH, SEPTEMBER 12:
Mr. Bikram Singh Majithia, President Youth Akali Dal and Revenue Minister Punjab today said that PPCC Chief Captain Amarinder Singh should not adopt such cheap publicity tactics by leveling false and baseless allegations regarding vendetta cases.
Refuting the charges leveled by PPCC Chief, Mr. Majithia said that Captain was trying to divert the attention of people from his utter failure to manage a decent gathering of party workers while the reality could be seen in all the newspapers today. Mr. Majithia said that Shalenderjit Shelly, who was the official candidate of Congress from Majtiha constituency in Vidhan Sabha polls, registered a protest against the apathetic behavior of Captain with party workers and the gathering at Shelly’s protest was much better than that of Captain’s drama, this goes on to show that even his party cadre has deserted him.
The YAD president said that it was funny that Captain had to move into a temple to register his protest due to anger of party workers and today the president of Brahmin Sabha of Gopalpura, which manages the affairs of the temple, Sh. Rampal Sharma has protested against Captain’s dharna in the temple. Speaking to the media he said, “ It is shameful that Capt Amarinder Singh President of PPCC staged the protest in a religious place thus hurting the sentiments of the people. We condemn his act in the strongest possible terms. This was done to pass off the temple devotees as participants of the dharna as he had failed to gather a decent crowd.”
Accusing Captain of leveling false charges of police cases under vendetta politics, Mr. Majithia said that the stand taken by PPCC Chief and the leader of opposition in Vidhan Sabha Mr. Sunil Jakhar on this issue was totally contradictory. He said that Captain had claimed that there were more than 50,000 vendetta cases registered against Congressmen, which he has been unable to prove and Mr. Jakhar has also rubbished the charges of Captain on the floor of Vidhan Sabha. This shows that there is no coordination in the congress leadership and it is a case of the left hand now knowing what the right hand is doing.
Talking about the tall claims of Captain that there was a massive gathering of Congressmen in Gopalpura village, Mr. Majithia said that Gopalpura village was one of the smallest villages in his constituency and the choice of the small village speaks volumes about the confidence of the Congress in itself. Mr. Majithia further said that if Captain has any illusion about the number of people at his protest, he (Majithia) would be happy to arrange the recordings of latter’s agitation having less than 500 people. He said that Captain should realize his position and credibility in party fold from the humiliation he suffered from the hands of his own party men. He said that it was the Congress cadre, who compelled him to divert the routes of his cavalcade and lodged a protest against him by showing black flags.
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LT. GEN. SANJIV CHACHRA CALLS ON CM
EXPRESSES CONCERN OVER THE DETERIORATING HEALTH AND ENERGY LEVEL OF PUNJABI YOUTH
CHANDIGARH, SEPTEMBER 12:
General Officer Commanding-in-Chief Western Command Lt. General Sanjiv Chachra, AVSM, VSM, today called on the Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal and expressed concern over reducing number of men from Punjab due to the deteriorating health and energy level of Punjabi youth as Punjab always remained a major recruitment area for the Indian Army.
Disclosing this here today a spokesperson of the Chief Minister’s office informed that during an hour long interaction, Mr. Badal apprised the Lt. General about the concerted efforts being made to make youth of the Punjab more disciplined and physically fit to join armed forces through establishing Maharaja Ranjit Singh Armed Forces Preparatory Institution Mohali, two NCC academies at Ropar and Malout, beside planning to start an intensive SSB training centre for girls.
On this occasion Lt. Gen. Sanjiv Chachra also offered to initiate some joint plan for ensuring more recruitment from the state in the Army. For which Mr. Badal asked his office to chalk out the modalities.
Appreciating the efforts of state government for providing 200 acres of land for setting up of Service Selection Centre at Ropar, Gen. Chachra informed that Army would start the construction work there soon. He also requested the Chief Minister to adjust the maximum number of ex-servicemen. in the state government services as per their quota. Gen. Chachra also assured the Chief Minister that army would provide a list of professionals like doctors, engineers who were going to retire in next sixth months to the state government for utilizing their expertise as per the requirement of the government.
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CM ASKS FOREST DEPARTMENT TO WORK OUT WAYS AND MEANS FOR EXEMPTING MORE KANDI AREA FROM THE AMBIT OF PLPA
PUNJAB TO DEVELOPMENT KANDI AREA IN A HOLISTIC MANNER
TIMBER MARKET TO BE SETUP AT BALACHOUR
CHANDIGARH SEPTEMBER 12:
Punjab to chalk out a joint action plan involving Forest, Public Health and Irrigation departments for the development of Kandi area in a holistic manner.
A decision to this effect was taken by Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal during a high level meeting held here late last evening.
Taking part in the deliberations, Mr. Badal directed the top brass of these departments to immediately depute one officer each to be designated as Project Officer for ensuring responsive and proper coordination between all the concerned departments to carry out various development works like provision of drinking water, sewerage, electricity, irrigation, road network etc. facilities under this joint venture.
On informing that the Forest Department had delisted 1.4 lac acres of cultivated and inhabited area falling under Punjab Land Preservation Act (PLPA) in the Kandi, the Chief Minister asked the department to examin ways and means for exempting more area in the region from the ambit of PLPA as it had badly affected the overall development as well as the economic growth of this sub-mountainous region.
On the occasion Mr. Badal also announced to setup a Timber Market at Balachour for which modalities would be chalked out soon. He also informed that Under Kandi Canal Stage-I project, government would undertake the work of laying of underground irrigation pipes in this area. He directed the Irrigation department to expedite the survey work so that the project could be completed in the current fiscal year. He further said that to introduce Drip Irrigation and Sprinkler systems for irrigation more sites would be identified to construct check dams in Kandi area. Regarding afforestation, Mr. Badal said that it should be adopted in such a manner that it could develop simultaneously with the agricultural activities in the area.
Prominent amongst others who attended the meeting included Principal Secretary to Chief Minister Mr. SK Sandhu, Principal Secretary Irrigation Mr. KBS Sidhu, Principal Chief Conservator of Forest Mr. HS Gujral, Mr. Deputy Commissioner Hoshiarpur Mr. Dipinder Singh, MD Milkfed Mr. Balwinder Singh Sidhu, Director Agriculture Mr. Mangal Singh Sandhu, Chief Engineer Kandi Area Development Mr. Harvinder Singh and Chairman-cum-MD Punjab State Power Corporation Ltd. Mr. KD Chaudhary.
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CM CONDOLES THE DEATH OF COUSIN OF MANISH TIWARI
CHANDIGARH SEPTEMBER 12
Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today express profound grief and sorrow over the sad demise of Mr. Ajay Tiwari, cousin of Mr. Manish Tiwari, Editor-in-Chief of Daily Post, who breathed his last at Sir Ganga Ram Hospital in New Delhi on Wednesday morning. Mr. Ajay (44) was working as Chief of Bureau of Press Trust of India (PTI) in Patna.
In a condolence message, Mr. Badal 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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SUKHBIR APPROVES DAIRY AND POULTRY MISSION FOR PUNJAB
- MISSION FOCUSES ON TURNING FARMERS INTO ENTREPRENEURS
- TARGETS TO DOUBLE MILK AND POULTRY PRODUCTION IN THE STATE
- TO INVOLVE STAKEHOLDERS FOR THE SUCCESS OF THE MISSION
- TO FOCUS ON CREATING COLD CHAIN, VALUE ADDITION OF MILK AND POULTRY PRODUCTS
CHANDIGARH, SEPTEMBER 12: The Punjab today approved a ‘Mega Dairy and Poultry Mission’ opening a new vista for diversification in the agriculture sector providing a hope for a bright future to the farmers of the state.
In a high-level meeting, the Punjab Deputy Chief Minister Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal while approving the mega mission said that we have to take Punjab agriculture on the higher orbit of development, keeping in view the saturation reached in the agriculture production, providing viable and futuristic diversification alternative to the farmers and to create dairy and poultry industry of international standards in Punjab.
Focusing on doubling the production of Milk and Poultry products in the state, Mr. Badal said that the mission was approved with the intension of making Punjab No. 1 state in these areas. He asked the department to finalise the blueprint of incentivising dairy farmers, chalk out a special program for diary farms, commercial dairy farms, financial pattern of these dairy farms, their linkeages with the cold chains or stakeholders and focusing on improvement of breed of milch-cattle to raise the milk production. Mr. Badal said that concerned department would work in a coordinated manner in this mission.
Mr. Badal said that the department should focus on importing semen of highest yield cattle via global tenders and if need we should work out a scheme to import high-milk yield cattle from a country, whose weather conditions were in tune with Indian conditions. He said that department should work out a detailed proposal to provide imported cattle to the dairy farms and educate them in latest techniques of dairy farming.
Impressing upon the need of adopting latest technology in Dairy and Poultry farming, Mr. Badal said that we would have to improve the standard of milk and poultry products according to international norms to facilitate their export to other countries. He said that with Integrated Check Post at Attari becoming fully functional there was a vast scope to export south-east Asian countries and to Gulf.
Asking for statewide herd census, Mr. Badal said that the mission headquarter must have detail of each cattle along with the name and photograph of owners. He said that it would be the responsibility of mission to work out a detailed plan for veterinary care of all breeds of cattle.
Stressing on the need for involving stakeholders for the success of this Mega Dairy and Poultry mission, Mr. Badal said that we must involve Multi National Companies procuring milk from Punjab for the success of this mission.
The Mission director was asked to submit detailed plan of action within 15 days. Prominent amongst those were present in the meeting included Mr. P. S. Aujla, Principal Secretary to Deputy CM, Mr. Jagpal Singh Sandhu, Principal Secretary Animal Husbandry, Mr. Mandeep Singh Sandhu and Mr. Manvesh Singh Sidhu, Special Principal Secretary to Deputy CM.
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SUKHBIR CONDOLES THE UNTIMELY DEMISE OF JOURNALIST AJAY TIWARI
CHANDIGARH SEPTEMBER 12: The Punjab Deputy Chief Minister Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal to expressed deep shock at the untimely demise of Mr. Ajay Tiwari (44), Chief of Bureau Press Trust of India, Patna and cousin of Mr. Manish Tiwari, Editor-in Chief Daily Post, who expired in Delhi today morning.
Mr. Badal expressed heartfelt sympathies with the bereaved family and prayed to God to give peace to the departed soul and strength to bear this irreparable loss
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BATTLE STORY OF SARAGARHI TO BE INCLUDED IN SCHOOL CURRICULUM- SUKHBIR
v PAYS GLORIOUS TRIBUTES TO 21 MARTYRS OF SARAGARHI BATTLE ON 115TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE HISTORIC EVENT
v REITERATES PUNJAB GOVERNMENT’S COMMITMENT TO PROVIDE EVERY POSSIBLE SUPPORT TO THE DEFENCE PERSONNEL
v SANJAY DUTT TO MAKE FILM ON SARAGARHI
Chandigarh, September 12: The Punjab Deputy Chief Minister Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal today announced to include the battle story of Saragarhi in the school curriculum in the state as a humble tribute to those 21 martyrs of 36th Sikh Regiment of British Indian Army, who laid down their lives after killing hundreds of Pashtuns while fighting a spirited battle against a force of more than 10,000 attackers.
Paying glorious tributes to those valiant martyrs on the occasion of Saragarhi day function organized at Gurudwara, Chandimandir, the Deputy Chief Minister said that the contingent of 36th Sikhs (now 4th Sikh Regiment) led by Hawaldar Ishar Singh choose to fight to death rather leaving their post and this battle was known as history’s great last stands. He said that we all were proud of that rare achievement of Sikh soldiers, who were awarded the Indian Order of Merit posthumously, the highest Gallantry Award of that time. He said that the significance of that battle was well presumed from the fact that Saragarhi was one of the 8 collective stories of bravery published by UNESCO for children. He said that it was our bounden duty to include such events of history in our text books so that our younger generations could draw inspiration from such rare of rarest events and the spirit of bravery and patriotism could be instilled in their minds.
Highlighting the ordeal of Indian soldiers posted on strategically important but very tough terrains like Siachin, the Deputy Chief Minister underlined the need to send delegations of Member Parliaments to such places to have first hand assessment of the challenges not only of enemy but also of hostile weather being faced by them, so that there should not be any delay in provision of any facility or equipment for such brave hearts. He informed that renowned cine star Sanjay Dutt has told him that he was exploring the possibility to make a film on this historic Saragarhi battle and hoped that this project would soon materialize and the state government would provide every possible help for this noble cause.
Recalling the unparalleled contribution of Sikh Regiments in every challenge posed to the nation, Mr. Badal expressed confidence that the brave hearts of these regiments would continue to serve the nation with full dedication to meet any eventuality. On this occasion, he also handed over a cheque of Rs.11 lac for various welfare measures to be initiated for 4thSikh Regiment. He also announced to provide 2 LCDs, 8 Deep Freezers, 8 Water Purifiers besides required number of Sports Kits to 36th Sikhs (now 4th Sikh Regiment). Earlier, the officers and Jawans of 4th Sikh Regiment presented a Siropa (Rob of Honour) to the visiting Deputy Chief Minister.
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SUKHBIR COMES TO THE AIDE OF BLIND NATIONAL SHOT-PUT PLAYER
· STATE GOVERNMENT TO BEAR ALL EXPENSES FOR HER TREATMENT OF EYES
· STATE TO ENGAGE SPECIAL COACH FOR HER
Chandigarh, September 12: The Punjab Deputy Chief Minister Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal has come to the aide of 25 year old blind girl, Noorie alias Balwinder Kaur who had made her mark in state and national level shot-put discus throw, javelin besides known for her dancing skills on various television shows.
Balwinder Kaur accompanied by this father today called on Punjab Deputy Chief Minister in his office pleading her case. Balwinder Kaur’s father is a driver who has a large family to support including five daughters and two sons, therefore he was unable to pay for her medical expenses. Balwinder Kaur requested that besides being a national player she has proved her dancing skills on television show, “India’s Got Talent”.
Mr. Badal asked Secretary Sports Mr. P.S. Aujla to work out the total treatment plan to restore the eye sight of promising player Balwinder Kaur and promised that Punjab government would pay total expenses for her treatment. He said that once fully treated the Punjab government would engage a coach to provide specialized training to her.
Balwinder Kaur informed that she lost her eye sight seven years ago in an accident that left her sightless. She informed that she had won eight gold medals, two silver and a bronze medal at national-level in shot put and discuss throw, that also without any coach.
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SUKHBIR OKAYS MASSIVE PLAN TO REJUVENATE IRRIGATION NETWORK
- PLAN FOCUSES ON OPTIMUM UTILIZATION OF AVAILABLE WATER RESOURCES
- DEPARTMENT TOLD TO ENSURE IRRIGATION WATER UPTO TAIL END
Chandigarh, September 12: The Punjab Deputy Chief Minister Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal today Okayed a multi thousand crore plan for irrigation sector to rejuvenate the 50 year old network in the state.
Accompanied by Irrigation Minister Mr. Janmeja Singh Sekhon, Mr. Badal reviewed the status report of irrigation sector in marathon meeting held in Punjab Civil Secretariat. Mr. Badal said that Irrigation network was the life line of Agriculture sector and can not be ignored by the state. He said that rejuvenation plan must focus on quality control to check the seepage of precious water.
Mr. Badal impressed that we must focus on latest technology especially being used by Israel for water conservation as depleting water table in Punjab was a matter of great concern. He said that Punjab must also focus on low water consuming crops and time has come that farmers would have to exercise discipline in usage of water.
Participating in the meeting Mr. Janmeja Singh Sekhon, Irrigation Minister said that focus of the irrigation department should be on quality control while executing the work on irrigation channels.
Stressing upon the need for ensuring irrigation water up to tail end, Mr. Badal said that it was imperative for us to check the theft of water.
Mr. Sekhon informed the Deputy Chief Minister that Punjab government has already promulgated an ordinance making theft of Canal water an offence resulting in imprisonment of 6 months besides Rs.5000 fine.
Prominent amongst those who were present in the meeting included Mr. Rakesh Singh, Chief Secretary Punjab, Mr. S.K. Sandhu, Principal Secretary to Chief Minister, Mr. K.B.S Sidhu, Principal Secretary Irrigation, Mr. Satish Chandra, Principal Secretary Finance, Mr. P. S. Aujla, Principal Secretary to Deputy Chief Minister and Mr. Manvesh Singh Sidhu, Mr. Ajay Kumar Mahajan, Special Principal Secretaries to Deputy Chief Minister.
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14 COUNTRIES TO VIE FOR RS.4 CRORE PRIZE MONEY IN 3RD EDITION OF WORLD CUP KABBADI- SUKHBIR
· COMMITTED TO ORGANIZE DOPE FREE TOURNAMENT
· 6 WOMEN TEAMS TO ALSO PARTICIPATE
· WORLD CUP KABBADI SCHEDULED FORM DECEMBER 1-15
· BATHINDA TO HOST GLITTERING OPENING CEREMONY WHEREAS CLOSING TO BE ORGANIZED IN LUDHIANA
Chandigarh, September 12: All is set for 3rd edition of World Cup Kabbadi with 14 countries giving their consent to participate in a tournament with highest ever prize money in the world.
Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal accompanied by Revenue & Public Relations Minister Mr. Bikram Singh Majithia, Education Minister Mr. Sikander Singh Maluka today gave final touches to the arrangements for mega sports show that has made Kabbadi an international game. Mr. Badal said that this year prize money has been doubled to Rs.2 crore for the winning team, Rs.1 crore for the 2nd team and Rs.51 lac for the 3rd team in the men section whereas in the women team prize money was Rs.0.25 crore for the winning team, Rs.0.15 crore for 2nd team and Rs.0.10 crore for the 3rd team. Participating teams would get Rs.10 lac each.
Mr. Badal said that opening & closing ceremonies of the World Cup Kabbadi would be of the level of London Olympics and international bids to organize these ceremonies have already been called. Mr. Badal said that opening ceremony would be organized at Bathinda whereas closing ceremony would be at Ludhiana.
Promising a dope free tournament Mr. Badal said that Rs.35 lac has been earmarked for anti-doping cell alone. Mr. Badal said that no leniency would be shown on the doping front and all countries have been forewarned regarding this.
The countries that are participating in the tournament in men’s section include India, Pakistan, Afghanistan, Iran, Sri Lanka, Australia, Italy, USA, Canada, Denmark, Norway, Scotland, Kenya and Argentina. In the women section India, Kenya, Malaysia, USA, UK and Turkmenistan would participate. The tournament has been scheduled from December 1-15.
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PUNJAB TO SET UP NRI FOUNDATION-MAJITHIA
- NRI COMMITTEES AND NRI COURTS WOULD BE ESTABLISHED AT DISTRICT LEVEL IN A YEAR
- ‘KNOW PUNJAB’- ‘KNOW YOUR MOTHERLAND’ SPECIAL PROGRAM TO APPRISE YOUNG GENERATIONS OF PUNJABI DIASPORA ABOUT PUNJAB
- TECHNICAL EDUCATION AND INDUSTRIAL TRAINING DEPARTMENT TO IMPART PROFESSIONAL SKILLS TO STUDENTS WILLING TO STUDY ABROAD
CHANDIGARH, SEPTEMBER 12: The Punjab Government has given its approval in principal approval for the formation of ‘NRI Foundation’ to further expedite the welfare programs for NRIs and to resolve their grievances within stipulated time frame.
Presiding over a review meeting with the officials of Department of NRI and NRI Commission, NRI Affairs Minister Mr. Bikram Singh Majtihia informed that Punjab Government has finalized the strategy to setup NRI Foundation, which would be, one of its own kind in the country. He said that the foundation would function on the state level headquarter, which further would also be interlinked with its district level committees. He said that foundation would be comprised of top educational institutions, associations, Non Government Organisations for the smooth functioning.
Divulging details about the functioning of foundation, Mr. Majithia said that this foundation would issue unique NRI Cards to the Punjabi Diaspora, which would help them resolving their grievances within stipulated time frame. They would also be provided requisite travelling information to the tourist from foreign countries. He said that foundation would also organize lectures of renowned members of Punjabi Diaspora in different educational institutions to educate the students about the culture, heritage and education system in foreign countries.
Mr. Majithia also informed that Punjab Government has decided to establish district level NRI Committees and district level courts especially for NRIs within a year, to resolve their grievances. He said that these NRI Committees would also make aware the Punjabi Diaspora about the welfare schemes initiated especially for NRIs by the SAD-BJP Government.
The Minister said that Punjab Government has also decided to prepare two separate special programs naming ‘Know Punjab’ and ‘Know Your Motherland’ for the young generations of Punjabi Diaspora apprising them about the rich culture, heritage, historical values festivals and traditions of Punjab through CDs and Documentaries. He said that Technical Education and Industrial Training Department would impart professional skills to the students willing to study abroad. He said that these professional training programs would be of 6 months period so that Punjabi students do not face problems in finding employment on foreign lands.
Mr. Majithia also directed the department for NRI Affairs to identify the NRIs along with their villages, who have contributed in social welfare works, so that their names and photos could be published in the directory of NRIs which is under process.
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PRIVATE POLYTECHNIC COLLEGES NOT IMPLEMENTING 6th PAY COMMISSION PAY SCALE FACE DE-AFFILIATION: JOSHI
CHANDIGARH, SEPTEMBER 12:
The Punjab Government has ordered to initiate the process of de-affiliation of all those private polytechnic colleges, that had not implemented the recommendations of Sixth Pay Scale Commission of granting revised pay scale to its faculty. It was disclosed by Minister for Technical Education and Industrial Training, Mr. Anil Joshi.
He said that it has been noticed that many of the private polytechnic colleges in Punjab have not implemented the recommendations of Sixth Pay Scale Commission. He said that these colleges have been exploiting the lecturers and paying them much less salary than has been approved by All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE), New Delhi.
Mr. Joshi said that the faculty of one of the private colleges in state has complained against this exploitation before AICTE. He said that all the private polytechnic colleges have been instructed to implement the Sixth Pay Scale Commission recommendation at the earliest and send a detailed report to the headquarter.
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GOVERNMENT DECLARES SPECIAL CASUAL LEAVE ON SEPT. 15, 2012 IN VIEW OF BYE-ELECTION OF MUNICIPAL CORPORATION, CHANDIGARH WARD NO.7 EMPLOYEES
CHANDIGARH, SEPTEMBER 12:
The Punjab Government has declared Special casual leave on September 15, 2012 (Saturday)on account of bye-Election of Municipal Corporation, Chandigarh ward no.7. Those employees who are residing in ward no.7 can avail this casual leave.
Disclosing this here today a spokesman of the Punjab Government said that this special leave would be sanctioned by the concerned authority after the verification of documents. Leave would not be deducted from his leave account, added the spokesman.
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IRRIGATION DEPARTMENT ANNOUNCED ROTATIONAL IRRIGATION PROGRAMME FROM 13 SEPTEMBER TO 20 SEPTEMBER
CHANDIGARH, September 12:
The Irrigation Department, Punjab has announced the Rotational Programme for irrigation for the Kharif Season through Canal water from 13-9-2012 to 20-9-2012. The channels and branches off-taking from Ropar Head Works, the channels of Sirhind Canal System would run on the priority basis from Abohar Branch, Patiala Feeder, Bist Doab canal, Sidhwan Branch and Bathinda Branch and respectively.
Disclosing this here today a spokesman of the Irrigation Department said that the distributaries and branches of BML, Ghaggar Link and its off-taking channels i.e. Ghaggar Branch and Patiala Minor, in Group ‘B’, being in the first preference, would run to their indent. Balance water supplies available, would be utilized in Direct Distributaries of Group ‘A’.
The spokesman further said that Punjab channels and branchs off-taking from Harike and Ferozpur Head Works, Abohar Branch off-taking from Sirhind Feeder and its distributaries, in Group ‘B’ being in first preference, would run to their indent. Balance water supplies available, would be utilized in Direct Distributaries of Sirhind Feeder in Group ‘A’.
The spokesman also said that the in the Upper Bari Doab Canal system, Main Branch Lower with its distributaries, being in the 1st preference, would run to their indent. Balance water supplies available, would be utilized in Lahore Branch, Sabhroan Branch amd Kasur Branch Lower with their distributaries, respectively.
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PUNJAB GOVT SACKS PRINCIPAL OF SENIOR SECONDARY SCHOOL BHADSON
CHANDIGARH, September 12:
The Punjab Government in order to curb the habit of absentees on the pretext of ex-India leave today sacked the Principal of Senior secondary school Bhadson in Patiala district.
Disclosing this here today an official spokesman of Education Department said that Mr. Gurjinder Singh Grewal Principal Senior secondary school Bhadson proceeded on long ex-India leave without any permission of competent authority. He said that the Government has decided in principle to take stern action in order to maintain the high standard of education in all the government schools in the state.
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SMELLING ITS COMPLETE DECIMATION, CONGRESS LOOTING THE COUNTRY WITH BOTH HANDS- HARSIMRAT BADAL
BATHINDA/CHANDIGARH, SEPTEMBER 11:
Mrs. Harsimrat Kaur Badal, local Member Parliament today slammed the Congress led UPA government for unprecedented inflation in the country and said that smelling its complete political decimation in 2014 Parliament elections, the Congress Party and its allies were looting the country with both hands.
Talking to the media persons after laying foundation stone of Reverse Osmosis (RO) at Sanjay Nagar here, Mrs. Badal said that instead of adopting measures to curb the inflation and corruption in the country, the Congress led UPA government was looting the assets of country like East India Company ignoring the interests of common masses.
Answering a query, Mrs. Badal said that the ruling Union Government led by Congress has created several records of multi-crore scandals followed one by one including 2G, Commonwealth Games Scam, Aadarsh Scam while the latest Coalgate has become talk of the country. She said that Congress Party has come to know that there was no revival of UPA in 2014 and the coalition has 'in principle' decided to loot the coffers and assets of the country.
On being asked about the upcoming political scenario of the country, Mrs. Badal said that the general public already reeling under the unprecedented burden of taxes, inflation and deceptive policies of UPA government would brush aside the Congress and its allies in Parliament elections.
Answering another query regarding ongoing talks between Captain Amarinder Singh and PPP Chief Manpreet Singh Badal, Mrs. Badal said that they had come to know before elections that Congress was plotting Manpreet against SAD-BJP alliance while the wise people of Punjab has rejected duo. She said that the electorates were eagerly waiting the Parliament polls to repeat the same mandate.
Meanwhile, Mrs. Badal announced Rs. 4 lakh grant to construct a Community Hall in Sanjay Nagar besides setting-up of a sewing center under Nanhi Chaan (a campaign against social evils). Prominent amongst those were present on the occasion included Chief Parliamentary Secretary Mr. Sarup Chand Singla, Mayor Mr. Baljit Singh Beer Behman, Deputy Commissioner Mr. Kamal Kishore Yadav, SSP Mr. S.S. Gill and Commissioner Municipal Corporation Mr. Uma Shankar.
Amarinder lashes out at Majithia; warns him against reign of terror
AMRITSAR, September 11:
Punjab Pradesh Congress Committee President Capt Amarinder Singh today lashed out at revenue minister Bikram Singh Majithia for the reign of terror let lose by him in his area. He said, Majithia must know that nothing is permanent and much less the power and one day he will have to account for his sins.
Addressing an impressive public meeting organized by Lali Majithia here today, Amarinder regretted that Bikram despite belonging to a decent and respectable family had stooped to such levels where he had tried to muzzle the voice of his political opponents.
He pointed out, Bikram only betrayed his fear and phobia by forcing all the marriage palace owners in the area against renting their premises for the Congress function. “If he thinks he can muzzle the voice of the Congress workers that way he is miserably mistaken”, the PCC President warned while adding, one day the same people will hold him the dock and ask him to explain his sins.
“This is just a childish and immature act on part of Bikram”, he remarked, while adding that never in his political career had he seen such a childish behaviour by any politician howsoever powerful he may have been. He said, he had held public rallies even in the constituency of the Chief Minister Parkash Singh Badal but never had he faced such resistance borne out of fear.
The PCC President reiterated that the way the situation was developing in the state there was no guarantee whether this government will last the full term. He recalled, even during 1977 the Akalis had formed the government but they could not survive even for full three years and there is no guarantee that this may not happen again.
Earlier talking to the reporters, Capt Amarinder said, he wanted to go to all the 117 assembly segments in the coming months to meet the workers. He said, the Congress was fully geared up for the parliamentary elections and the Akalis will be shocked into defeat.
To a question about possible political alliance in the state for the parliamentary elections, the PCC President said, since Congress was a national party the alliances are worked out at the national level only. He said, the state units are asked about their opinion and feedback which will be provided whenever asked.
However, he added, the current appeal he had made to the opposition political parties was only aimed at uniting them all against the punitive taxation imposed by the Akali BJP government in the state. He said, it was the need of the hour that all the opposition political parties should unite and come on a common platform.
Addressing the meeting Congress Legislative Party leader Sunil Jakhar had a dig at Deputy Chief Minister Sukhbir Badal for asking Amarinder Singh to stage dharna in Delhi for grants. Jakhar said, he will stage the dharna if need be, but let Sukhbir and his government give the account of thousands of crores of money that came from centre and has either been misused and embezzled by people like Gulzar Singh Ranike.
Prominent among others present on the occasion included Fateh Jang Bajwa, Sukh Sarkaria, Harpartap Ajnala, Harminder Gill, Vikram Chaudhary, Jagdeep Sidhu, Major Amardeep, Jasbir Singh Dimpa and others.
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ORDERS TO ACT AGAINST LONG TIME ABSENTEE ZILA PARISHAD TEACHERS: RAKHRA
· ISSUES CHARGESHEET AGAINST 70 ZILA PARISHAD TEACHERS
· ASKS DISTRICTS TO SEND DETAILED REPORTS IN A WEEK
· 'NO DERELICTION IN DUTY WOULD BE TOLERATED'
CHANDIGARH, SEPTEMBER 11:
The Punjab Government has issued orders to initiate action against the long time absentee Zila Parishad teachers, who did not join their respective duties even after the expiry of their ex-india leave.
Disclosing this here, Panchayats and Rural Development Minister Mr. Surjit Singh Rakhra today said that it has come to the notice of Punjab Government that nearly 100 ETT Teachers working under Zila Parishad were enjoying ex-India leaves despite expiry of their respective leaves. He said that this was leaving loss to student's education as they were unable to complete the requisite syllabus in absence of teachers. He said that during the inquiry hold by the Panchayats Department, it has been come to fore that majority of absentee teachers were enjoying foreign tours.
Elaborating the steps being taken against the erring teachers, Mr. Rakhra said that chargesheets have been issued against 70 teachers by providing them a chance to explain their state while chargesheets to be issued to the remaining 30 teachers in coming days.
The Minister also said that necessary directions have been issued to identify more erring teachers, if any for requisite action.
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CM GIVES NOD TO NEW TUBEWELL CONNECTION POLICY FOR 2012-13 TO BENEFIT MARGINAL AND SMALL FARMERS
ASKS OFFICERS TO RESOLVE FARMERS’ ISSUES ON TOP PRIORITY
CHANDIGARH SEPTEMBER 11:
Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today directed the Punjab State Power Corporation Ltd. (PSPCL) to formulate a new policy for 2012-13 to grant fresh tubewell connections to the marginal and small farmers on priority
A decision to this effect was taken at a meeting chaired by Mr. Badal held here at CMO this afternoon to review the issues related to the agriculture sector in general and for the welfare of farmers in particular which was also attended by the Chief Secretary and the senior officers of the state government.
According to the spokesperson of the Chief Minister’s Office, Mr. Badal monitored the progress of Agriculture, Power, Finance, Revenue, Co-operation and Welfare departments especially in context of the pending issues related to the farm sector.
Mr. Badal categorically said that the state government was committed for the welfare of beleaguered peasantry which was already facing lot of hardships due to squeezed margins of profitability on account of non remunerative MSP. He asked the officers present in the meeting to resolve these issues to the satisfaction of the farmers on the top priority.
On the issue of pending arrears of Rs.357 crore on account of Tubewell Bills relating to the period when tariff was imposed on farm sector, the Chief Minister was informed that the state government had reimbursed PSPCL on this count, which had taken off these arrears from the accounts of the concerned farmers.
Regarding the issue of land acquisition for the Gobindpura Thermal plant in Mansa district, the Chief Minister directed that the process of giving a job to an eligible member of the family whose land had been acquired for the setting of the plant should be expedited. Likewise, the compensation package of Rs.3 lakh for the family of landless labourers should also be granted forthwith. Mr. Badal also directed for a quick disposal of matter relating to exchange of land and its de-notification in a time bound manner.
Referring to the issue of suicides committed by farmers, the Chief Minister asked the Financial Commissioner Revenue to examine all such cases for prompt payment of compensation as per the prescribed norms forthwith. In this regard, he directed the compensation of two installments of Rs.1 lakh each should be released immediately and in future such cases would be jointly verified by the deputy commissioner and SSP within one month. Compensation of Rs.6 lakhs for the farmers who were injured during the protest was also released out of the Chief Minister’s Relief Fund to Deputy Commissioner Mansa for disbursement. Mr. Badal also directed the Chief Secretary to regularly monitor the progress of the issues pertaining to the peasantry to instill a sense of confidence and security besides updating him on time to time. He also said that he was ever ready to take up these issues with the Government of India (GoI) at concerned Ministry’s level for early resolution, if the officers needed his intervention at any point of time.
It was also decided in the meeting to give a job to the next of kin of eight persons who lost their lives in various farm agitations across the state and also of the two persons who were killed in police action at village Akalian in district Mansa at the earliest.
Prominent amongst other present in the meeting included Chief Secretary Mr. Rakesh Singh, Financial Commissioner Revenue Mr. Navneet Singh Kang, Financial Commissioner Development Mr. GS Sandhu, Principal Secretary to Chief Minister Mr. SK Sandhu, Principal Secretary Home Mr. DS Bains, Secretary Power Mr. Anirudh Tiwari, Special Principal Secretary to Chief Minister Mr. Gagandip Singh Brar and CMD PSPCL Mr. KD Chaudhary.
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PM writes Badal on oak creek tragedy
GOI ASKS US ADMINISTRATION TO ENSURE FULL AND PROMPT ENQUIRY INTO OAK CREEK TRAGEDY: PM TO BADAL
CHANDIGARH SEPTEMBER 11:
Responding to the issues raised by the Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal to impress upon the US administration for taking effective steps to ensure the safety and security of Sikh community in the aftermath of the shocking tragedy at Oak Creek, Wisconsin in USA, on August 5, the Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh has taken up the issue with the US President Mr. Barack Obama. Mr. Badal had asked the Prime Minister to approach the US administration to ensure a full and prompt enquiry into the incident besides strengthening the security of places of worship in order to instill confidence in the Sikh community.
The Prime Minister on Monday apprised Mr. Badal that GoI had acted upon the issues raised in the Punjab Chief Minister’s letter. Mr. Badal had requested the Prime Minister to attach highest priority in our diplomatic engagement abroad to safeguard the interests of the diverse Indian communities living around the world and we were actively engaged with the host governments regarding their safety and welfare. Dr. Singh has now informed the Chief Minister that GoI is engaging the US administration on the issue.
The Prime Minister shared Mr. Badal’s anguish over the loss of six innocent lives and the injuries sustained by three others in this unfortunate incident. “This senseless act of violence in a place of worship has no place in any society and has rightly drawn condemnation from India, the United States and around the world”, said Dr. Singh in his letter to the Chief Minister. The Prime Minister also said that President Obama called him on August 8 to express his personal shock and sorrow and that of the American people, at this incident. Mr. Obama also appreciated the role played by Sikh community to enrich the United States. The US President said that the heartbreaking tragedy was contrary to everything that America stood for and that he was determined to make sure that such incidents did not happen again.
It may be recalled that Mr. Badal had written to the Prime Minister saying that effective and proactive response was required from the government of India on the two major issues. The first of course was the immediate task of dealing with the aftermath of this tragedy. Then there was also an equally urgent need for taking up with the US administration the larger question of taking effective administrative and other steps to ensure the safety and security of members of the Sikh community in that country. Mr. Badal had also pointed out that similar effort was also needed in some other countries which the Sikhs have made their second home, contributing in a significant and positive way to the progress and prosperity of the lands of their adoption.
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Shiromani Akali Dal
PACKAGE FOR INDUSTRY IN PUNJAB ON ANVIL- SUKHBIR
· PUNJAB TO ANNOUNCE NEW INDUSTRY POLICY SOON TO ATTRACT 1 LAC CRORE INVESTMENT
· RS.8745 CRORE URBAN RENEWAL PLAN TO CHANGE THE FACE OF ALL 142 CITIES
· AMARINDER JOINING HAND WITH MANPREET IMMATERIAL AS ZERO PLUS ZERO EQUALS TO BIG ZERO
· SEVERE JOLT TO CONGRESS, PARTY TREASURER JOINS SAD
Mandi Gobindgarh, September 10
The Punjab Deputy Chief Minister Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal today said that Punjab is all set to announce new industrial policy in the state with the singular aim of attracting Rs.1 lac crore investment in the state.
Talking to media persons after inducting Mr. Joginder Pal Singla, Treasurer of Punjab Congress Party and Mr. Hukam Chand Bansal in the Shiromani Akali Dal fold here today, Mr. Badal said that Punjab during last 5 years has focused on infrastructure development and with world class road and air connectivity even the world bank study has declared Punjab No.1 destination for investment. He said that Punjab is coming out with a new industry policy and besides new industrial policy we have initiated series of reforms in the industry department to provide single window hassle free service to the entrepreneurs. He said that Punjab has decided to create land bank to provide land to the serious entrepreneurs off the shelf and all clearances for new industry would be concurrently assured with in one month.
Focusing on urban development Mr. Badal said that he has finalized the urban development blue print for all 142 cities and set aside Rs.8745 crores for integrated provision of 100% sewerage and water supply, internal road network, greening in parks by a single development agency and all 142 cities would be revamped with in next 5 years.
When asked about Amarinder joining hands with Manpreet, Mr. Badal said that their desperation for coalition suggest that both leaders are desperately looking for crutches to stand on their feet. He said that we are all set to witness an unusual situation in the Congress party where only President Amarinder would remain in Congress, rest of leaders shifting to people’s own party that is Shiromani Akali Dal. Mr. Badal said that Mr. Joginder Pal Singla whose family was associated with Congress party since last 50 years and they were known as the pillar and symbol of Congress party in Mandi Gobindgarh, their leaving of Congress party suggests that every leader worth name in the Congress party was feeling orphaned in that party that they had nurtured with their sweat of brow. Mr. Badal said that leaders of Congress party were fed up of SMSing their leaders to seek appointment and waiting for months to have darshan of their Pradhan. He said that they are joining Shiromani Akali Dal because they were sure about the fact that this was the only party that has long term development vision of development for Punjab.
Earlier Congress today suffered severe jolt as its Treasurer and former President of Mandi Gobindgarh Muncipal Council Mr. Joginder Pal Singla today joined Shiromani Akali Dal along with his thousand supporters in the presence of SAD President and Deputy Chief Minister Punjab Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal.
Punjab Ratan Awardee Mr. Joginder Pal belongs to a traditional Congress family that had rich legacy of politics, social welfare and industrialism. His late father Mr. Nand Kumar Gupta was the Cashier of Punjab Pardesh Congress Committee during the tenure of Chief Minister Mr. Darbara Singh besides remaining the president of Mandi Gobindgarh Municipal Council for more than 20 years. His Son, Mr. Mittul Singla was the Chairman of Punjab Youth Congress Urban Development Cell. Mr. Joginder Pal, the sitting councilor in Mandi Gobindgarh Muncipal Council also represents the Lahoria group which had been considered as the backbone of the Congress party in the area.
Welcoming Mr. Joginder Pal Singla and his supporters in the party folds, Mr Sukhbir Singh Badal said that the party was firm to give them full respect and status in the party fold. He said that Congressmen's decision to join the SAD was testimony to the high level of confidence people have in the SAD and it was the victory of the pro people policies of Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal. He said that there was complete demoralisation in the Congress party and senior Congressmen were scared of the fact that their party would never came back to power in the states where it lost two consecutive assembly elections.
Mr. Joginder Pal Singla said that the grassroot Congress’ leaders and workers were dejecting the party as after being rejected by people of Punjab in the assembly elections the frustrated leaders of Punjab congress were now resorted to anti Punjab policies. He said that it was clear that senior leaders of Punjab Congress had influenced the Congress led UPA government to force Punjab government to levy more taxes on common man. He said that it had been already exposed that Capt Amrinder Singh had asked the Prime Minister and other Centre government ministers to stop grants to Punjab.
Prominent amongst those who were present on the occasion included Mr. Prem Sing Chandumajra, General Secretary SAD, Justice Nirmal Singh, MLA, Mr. Jagdeep Singh Cheema, District President SAD, Mr. Didar Sing Bhatti, Ex-MLA, Mr. Raju Khanna, Youth Development Board, Mr. Ranjit Singh Libra, Rajinder Kaur Salana, Satwinder Kaur Dhaliwal, Ex-MP and members of Industrial Associations of Mandi Gobindgar
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SUKHPAL SINGH KHAIRA
Ex-MLA
Congress urges you to dismiss Sh. Gulzar Singh Ranike Cabinet Minister for embezzlement of Border Area Development Programme (BADP) funds and the Minister’s discretionary funds. Congress also demands a CBI inquiry to fix responsibility on all those involved in the scam.
To, 11.09.12
Sh. Shivraj Patil,
Hon’ble Governor,
Punjab.
Dear Sir,
It is astonishing and shameful that a Minister who is supposed to be custodian of public exchequer has very craftily misused not only his discretionary funds but has embezzled BADP funds running into crores.We had heard of corruption and scandals by politicians and officers but never heard of embezzlement of Govt. grants directly and that too by Minister himself.
As we are aware, central funds meant for border areas under the BADP were collected in shape of cheques from the local BDPO and credited into fake accounts with the money being siphoned off by frontmen of the Minister and it never reached any Gram Panchayat. More than Rs. 2.60 crores were collected from the BDPO since 2008 onwards and the cheques were encashed via fake accounts and fake identities at the behest of the Minister, from IndusInd Bank, ICICI Bank and Bank of Maharashtra. This well planned conspiracy has been going on for the past more than four years now. Similarly the Minister, his son and his PA have also embezzled Rs. 1.99 crores from the discretionary funds supposedly at the disposal of the Minister for development works.
Although, a case of embezzlement of funds was registered in May 2011 but no one was named and no concrete action has followed due to political pressure. Sh. Sarbdyal Singh the PA of the Minister who is one of the main accused in the scam has been able to scot free.
What is more intriguing is the fact that although not a single penny of the BADP funds ever reached any genuine beneficiary, the state govt. has been very conveniently been reporting to the central govt. that the funds have been correctly utilized.
Now that the scam of misappropriation of funds by the Minister himself has come to light, the Minister has no moral authority to continue in office.
The Congress is of the opinion that the scandal unearthed so far is only the tip of the iceberg and a thorough investigation is required in the matter. Sh. Gulzar Singh Ranike Minister being a politically powerful man and having close connections with the Chief Minister will not allow any fair investigation. Therefore, the Congress party demands a CBI inquiry into the scam and at the same time urges your august office to dismiss the Minister from the council of Minister without any further delay.
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BADAL CONSTITUTES COMMITTEE UNDER CS TO WORKOUT POLICY FOR REGULARIZATION OF MARRIAGE PALACES
CHANDIGARH SEPTEMBER 11:
Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today constituted a four-member committee comprising Principal Secretary Housing & Urban Development, Principal Secretary Local Govt., Principal Secretary Finance under the chairmanship of state Chief Secretary to frame a policy aimed at regularization of the marriage palaces within and outside the municipal limits of the cities/towns in accordance with the directions issued by the Punjab & Haryana High Court. The committee had been asked to submit its report within two weeks.
Disclosing this here today a spokesperson of the CMO said that the committee would ensure proper and effective implementation of bylaws and regulations under the policy by all concerned. The Chief Minister asked the delegation of marriage palace welfare association led by its President Mr. SS Sidhu that the state government was already concerned about their grievances but at the same time he also underlined the need for strict implementation of the policy to be evolved amicably in consultation with the owners of the marriage palaces.
Mr. Badal also asked the committee to look into all aspects after detailed deliberations with the stake holders before the policy for regularization of marriage palaces was put in place. He asked the members of the committee to examine the entire issue in a holistic manner within the already laid down norms for seeking requisite sanctions from the designated development authorities.
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CM NOT TO MEET MPs/MLAs AND SENIOR PARTY FUNCTIONARIES ON SEPTEMBER 13 AND 18
BADAL TO REMAIN UNAVAILABLE FOR GENERAL PUBLIC BESIDES MPs/MLAs AND SENIOR PARTY LEADERS ON SEPTEMBER 18
CHANDIGARH SEPTEMBER 11:
Punjab Chief Minister Mr Parkash Singh Badal would be unable to meet the MPs/MLAs and senior party leaders on September 13 and 18 due to some pressing engagements.
Disclosing this here today a spokesperson of the Chief Minister’s Office said that Mr. Badal would be busy in a function at Fazilka on Thursday so he would not be able to meet the MPs/MLAs and senior party leaders on September 13. Likewise the Chief Minister is also scheduled to attend a political conference in Khadoor Sahib on September 18 due to which he would not be able to meet MPs/MLAs and senior party leaders. However, Mr. Badal will meet the general public from 4 to 6 pm as per his schedule.
The inconvenience caused to the general public, MPs/MLAs and senior party functionaries is highly regretted, added the spokesperson.
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CENTER DELIBERATELY DELAYING DSGMC ELECTIONS-SUKHBIR
- PUNJAB CONGRESS WOULD DIE ITS NATURAL DEATH DUE TO INTERNAL DISSENSION
- SUGAR TRADERS MUST BREAKDOWN PRICE AFTER LOWERING OF VAT
AMRITSAR, SEPTEMBER 11: Punjab Deputy Chief Minister Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal today charged that Congress led UPA government was deliberately delaying the elections of General House of Delhi Sikh Gurdwara Management Committee fearing the total decimation of Congress backed Sarna duo.
Talking to media persons here today after paying obeisance at Golden Temple, Mr. Badal said that media everyday is bringing out multi-crore scandals of Sarna brothers, who are looting the exchequer of DSGMC but Congress Government in the Center by delaying the elections to this Gurdwara Management body of Capital of India was giving them extended opportunity to mint money without any electoral authorization. He said that it was sad chapter in the history of DSGMC that Union Home Ministry was directly interfering in the religious affairs of Sikhs and Shiromani Akali Dal would expose the nefarious designs of Congress led UPA Government. Mr. Badal said that elections to DSGMC should always be held on schedule and no one should be allowed to continue in office after the expiry of their term.
When asked about the dissention in Amritsar Congress on the eve of visit of Captain Amarinder Singh to Majitha, Mr. Badal said that even Congress workers have realized that Captain Amarinder Singh has no issue against the SAD-BJP Government and he was befooling them with protest dharnas. He said that every child in Punjab was aware of the fact that it was due to the pressure of Union Urban Development Ministry that we were force to levy property tax on the people and no dharna can change the real picture. He said that let Captain organize dharna against Union Government or against proposed hike in the petrol, diesel and LPG and let him show his guts to stage dharna before 10 Janpath. He said that he would not dare to do this as he was already on ventilator provided by Mrs. Sonia Gandhi. Mr. Badal said that Congress was no challenge to SAD-BJP government as it would die its own death due to internal dissention.
When asked about Sugar prices, Mr. Badal said that SAD-BJP Government has fulfilled its promise by lowering the VAT on Sugar and now it was imperative for the traders to bring down prices.
Earlier Mr. Badal accompanied by Bathinda Member Parliament Mrs. Harsimrat Kaur Badal, Animal Husbandry Minister Mr. Gulzar Singh Ranike and Chairman District Planning Committee Mr. Veer Singh Lopoke paid obeisance at Golden Temple.
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GERWAL ASSUMES CHARGE AS MEMBER OF PUNJAB STATE HUMAN RIGHTS COMMISSION
CHANDIGARH SEPTEMBER 11:
Newly appointed member of the Punjab State Human Rights Commission Mr. Pushpinder Singh Grewal today assumed the charge of his office.
Disclosing this here today an official spokesperson of the Punjab government informed that Mr. Grewal's appointment is for the term of five years and with his induction the strength of the members of the Commission had gone up to five including the Chairman Justice Mr. Jagdish Bhalla.
On this occasion, Mr. Grewal reiterated his firm commitment to serve the people of the state thereby safeguarding their legitimate rights as a humble member of the Commission with dedication, honesty and sincerity besides upholding glorious traditions and ethics of this august office.
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THEFT OF CANAL WATER TO ATTRACT 6 MONTH IMPRISONMENT AND FINE: SEKHON
- PUNJAB GOVERNMENT AMENDED CANAL AND DRAINAGE ACT, 1873 TO CHECK THE OFFENCE
CHANDIGARH, SEPTEMBER 11:
The Punjab Government has tightened the screw on people puncturing canal illegally to irrigate their fields. The offence of theft of canal water would now attract a fine of Rs.5000 and 6 month imprisonment. The Punjab Government has amended ‘Canal and Drainage Act, 1873’ to this effect.
Disclosing this here today, Irrigation Minister Mr. Janmeja Singh Sekhon said that the Punjab Government has taken serious view of the increasing incidence of theft of canal water by the farmers, who were illegally puncturing the canals. He said that SAD-BJP government was committed for the welfare of farmers and agricultural labourers. He said that the government was duty bound to ensure the availability of water for irrigation but at the same time, theft of canal water could not be tolerated at any cost.
Mr. Sekhon further informed that the Punjab Government has amended the section 70 of the ‘Canal and Drainage Act, 1873’. He said that a fine of Rs.5000 would be imposed on the offender for theft of canal water for the first time or 6 month imprisonment or both. He said that for the first offence of canal water theft, water supply to the offender would be stopped for next two turns.
Irrigation Minister said that for the second offence of canal water theft, the water supply would be ceased for full term during the crop season. He said that in case any person still continues to use water in an unauthorized manner, he would be excluded from the command area of the canal for a period of two years. Mr. Sekhon said that when supply of water of the offender is stopped, his share of canal water would be distributed judiciously amongst the other share holders falling in the command area of the canal from where offender is drawing canal water. Mr. Sekhon said that offender could also appeal before Superintending Canal Officer (SCO) within 30 days. He said the before this amendment, there was a provision of Rs.1000 fine or 1 month imprisonment or both, which has now been substituted with the fine of Rs.5000 or 6 month imprisonment or both.
Speaking on the reports of breach in minors, Mr. Sekhon said that it has been noticed that in case of heavy rain, farmers used to close the water outlets emerging from minors to irrigate their fields, on its own. He said that this obstruction leads to increase in water level in the minor, which aggravates with the rain water. He said that in this situation, the pressure on the minor's embankment increases, which results in breach. He appealed the farmers to coordinate with the irrigation department and not to close the water outlets on its own.
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BADAL GIVES NOD TO POLICY FOR THE SALE OF LAND/BUILDING OF COOPERATIVE INSTITUTIONS
POLICY UNDERLINES THE NEED TO FOLLOW ROUTE OF OPEN AUCTION OF LAND AT MARKET PRICE
CHANDIGARH SEPTEMBER 10:
In a bid make the cooperative institutions economically viable and financially self-sustainable, the Punjab government has come out with a transparent policy in place for the sale of land/building held by cooperative organizations so that the income accrued on this count could be invested prudently on the capital expenditure and income generating activities.
A decision to this effect was taken by the Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal by giving nod to the proposal mooted by the cooperation department in this regard. Disclosing this here today a spokesperson of the CMO said that the policy has clearly stipulated the income generated on account of sale of land and building held by the cooperative institutions would not be utilized on the routine expenditure like disbursement of salaries to its employees. In case any cooperative institution or organization was in the winding up mode, thus the proceeds could be utilized accordingly within the prescribed rules and regulations.
It may be recalled the Registrar Cooperative Societies was the competent authority to accord approval to the concerned cooperative institutions for the sale of its land/building.
Under the new policy, the Managing Director, Chief Executive Officer or President of primary cooperative society or institution which intends to sale its land/building would have to put the comprehensive case before the Board of Directors (BoDs) along with his recommendations citing the reasons for the sale. In case a resolution was passed for the sale of land/building by the BoDs or MD then the case would be sent directly to Registrar Cooperative Societies for his approval. The policy has recommended that the open option was the best route to fetch maximum market rate and therefore, the procedure of open auction should only be adopted. The reserve price for the land/building to be sold off would be fixed by the concerned Deputy Commissioner on the basis of prevailing market price. In case any cooperative institution failed to get the reserved price from the open auction held twice for the sale of land/building then subsequently the reserved price could be slashed to maximum by 20%, for which the Managing Director of the Apex cooperative institution, Chief Executive Officer of the central cooperative institution and the managing committee of the primary cooperative societies would be competent. Consequently, the cooperative societies could re-auction the sale of land and building in accordance with the reduced reserved price. To ensure transparency and accountability in the entire auction process a representative of the Registrar cooperative societies would be appointed as observer. In case of the sale of land/building belonging to apex institutions then the representative of Registrar Cooperative Societies i.e. officer not below the rank Joint Registrar would be the observer. Likewise, the representatives of the Registrar and Deputy Registrar Cooperative Societies viz. officers not below the rank of Assistant Registrar would be the observers in both the cases of sale of land under the jurisdiction of central and primary cooperative institutions.
The video recording of the entire proceedings of the auction had been made mandatory under the new policy to ensure transparency and the compact disk of the recording would be kept under sealed cover by the apex/central cooperative institutions for record. Similarly, the primary cooperative societies would also keep the sealed CDs with them and also send the copies of the same to the offices of the Deputy Registrar Cooperative Societies for record.
In case any cooperative institution was not willing to dispose of its land through open auction than it can undertake the sale of such land through PUDA or other development authorities like GMADA, GLADA after getting it developed by them or directly to these authorities. In such situation, the concerned authority would make the payment to the cooperative institution after deducting the development cost and other genuine charges.
The policy also envisages that no other procedure would be followed by any cooperative institution for the sale of its land/building. The policy also stipulated that in case the land/building was needed by any government department, municipal corporation/committee, cooperative or government undertaking for development in the public interest, then the concerned cooperative institution would pass resolution to effect such transfer of land/building with the approval Registrar Cooperative Societies. In such cases there would be no need to follow the process of open auction and the price of land to be transferred in the given situation would be determined by the concerned deputy commissioner of the district. The Registrar Cooperative Societies would ensure strictly implementation of this policy for the sale of land/building within the jurisdiction of various cooperative institutions.
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BADAL CONDOLES DEATH OF DR VERGHESE KURIEN
RECALLS HIS YEOMAN SERVICES IN REVAMPING CO-OPERATIVE DAIRY SECTOR
Chandigarh, September 10-
Punjab Chief Minister Mr Parkash Singh Badal today deeply mourned the sad demise of the father of ‘White Revolution’ and founder of co-operative dairy movement in India Dr Verghese Kurien, who passed away at Anand in Gujarat on Sunday after a prolonged illness.
In a condolence message the Chief Minister recalled the outstanding contribution of Dr Kurien in emerging AMUL with a turnover of over Rs. 13000 crore, as Asia’s top milk producing brand. Mr. Badal said the remarkable services rendered by Dr Kurien in the co-operative dairy sector would be ever remembered by the one and all. Describing Dr Kurien as a true visionary who made our country the world’s largest milk producer besides making it the largest rural employment provider, the Chief Minister said that he would be ever remain a source of inspiration for millions of dairy farmers across the country. In the death of Dr Kurien the nation had been deprived of his valuable services which were instrumental in giving a new direction for the development of the dairy sector, added Mr Badal.
Sharing his heartfelt sympathies with the bereaved family, the Chief Minister prayed to the Almighty to give them courage to bear this irreparable loss and grant peace to the departed soul.
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FARMERS TOLD NOT TO CLOSE FLOW OF WATER IN MINERS: THANDAL
- INSTRUCTIONS FOR OFFICERS TO GUARD MINERS AND CANALS 24X7
CHANDIGARH, September.10:
The Punjab Government has issued instructions to the officers of the irrigation department for the 24X7 vigilance of the embankments of Canals and miners. Officers have also been asked to sensitize the farmers against blocking the water outlets emerging from miners to irrigate their fields, on their own.
Disclosing this here today Chief Parliamentary Secretary (Irrigation) Mr. Sohan Singh Thandal said that the department has taken strong exception of the reports of breach in miners in some parts of Punjab. He said that the areas, where the breach in miners occurred, had witnessed heavy rain during past some days.
He further said that it has been noticed that in case of heavy rain farmers used to close the water outlets, emerging from miners to irrigate their fields, on its own. He said that this obstruction leads to increase in water level in the miner, which aggravates with the rain water. He said that in this situation the pressure on the miner's embankment increases, which resulted in breach in the miner. He said that the officers of the department have been asked to sensitize the farmers against blocking water outlet from the miner on its own without intimating the irrigation department. He said that officers would depute mate and baildars to ensure 24X7 vigilance of miners’ and Canals’ embankments.
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PRIORITY IN POSTINGS TO TEACHERS UNDER RATIONALISATION: MALUKA
CHANDIGARH, SEPTEMBER 10: Mr. Sikander Singh Maluka, Education Minister, Punjab today said that the under the rationalization policy, the teachers would be posted on priority basis.
In a statement, Mr. Maluka said that the department has taken a strong exception of the reports that the teachers under Education Department, SSA and RMSA still not able to join the new stations. He said that the district education officers have been told to resolve this issue and every possible effort must be taken to adjust the teachers. He said that in absence of any vacancy at the particular station the DEOs will intervene and get the matter resolved on priority basis. He said that teachers have also been told to contact the respective DEOs and get their respective stations for joining.
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15 GOVT. COLLEGE LECTURERS PROMOTED AS PRINCIPALS
CHANDIGARH, SEPTEMBER 10:
The Punjab Government today promoted 15 govt. collage lecturers as principals.
Disclosing this here today a spokesman of the Punjab Government said that Ms. Rajinder Kaur posted at Govt. College Pojewal in district Hoshiarpur, Ms. Pawinder Kaur posted at Govt. College Dera Bassi, Ms. Surinder Kaur posted at Govt. College Bullath Kapurthala, Mr. Devinder Singh Chahal at Government Science and Research Collage Jagraon Ludhiana, Ms Atima Sharma at Kanya Maha Vidyalaya Jalandhar, Rajinder Singh at Govt. College Mansa, Ms. Suman Gandhi at Govt College Niyal Patran Patiala, Ms. Kirandeep at Govt. College Sardargarh Bathinda, Ms. Manju Sharma at Govt. College Karmsar Ludhiana, Ms. Rajdeep Kaur at Govt. College Hoshiarpur, Mr. Raj Kumar at Govt. College Mukatsar, Ms. Sneh Lata at Govt. College Ropar, Ms. Manjeet Kaur at Govt. Bikram College Commerce Patiala, Mr. Mangat Singh at Govt. College Fazilka and Mr. Aasa Ram at Govt. College GTB Garh Moga.
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Khamano: Nine Families of PPP and Congress Party has joined Bharatiya Janata Party at Shamshpur District Sri Fathegarh Sahib today
Aug 29, 2012
Nine Families of PPP and Congress Party has joined Bharatiya Janata Party at Shamshpur District Sri Fathegarh Sahib today in the Presence and worthy leadership of National Secretary , Incharge Jammu and Kashmir BJP kisan morcha and Punjab Government Vice chairman, PSIEC Sukhminderpal Singh Grewal. He welcome all these families and said now all are workers of BJP. Grewal said that party will gave suitable and good positions to them in BJP Kisan Morcha. In this public Rally, Grewal blamed UPA Government for the all ordeals of Indian farmers in the country. Grewal said that UPA government in center has crossed all the limit of corruption and it has become a symbol of anti poor and anti farmer government. Grewal said, "Congress is busy in looting the farmers and it can't do justice with the farmers of India. Farmers are under debt and forced to suicide due to Congress. Now the time has come to replace the anti farmer government." He said that to discuss the cost of the production of Wheat BJP Kisan Morcha's workshop for ten States Punjab, Haryana, Himachal Paradesh, Jammu and Kasmir, Uttar Pardesh, Uttrakhand, Rajasthan, Bihar, Delhi and Maharastra, workshop will be held at Karnal Club near Bus Stand, Karnal on 15-16 September in the worthy Presidentship of our National President Mr. Op Dhankar. He said that it is to outcome in our workshop which farmers discuss the production cost in their respective areas in different areas of their districts and states. Grewal said that National Morcha's and Cell's Incharge Mr. Mahinder Pandey, National BJP Kisan Morcha Incharge Mr. Satpal Malik, National General Secretary Organisation Kisan Morcha Hirde Nath singh, Kisan Morcha's National Office Bearers, Executive Members, State Presidents and District President from representative states and districts will attend this two days workshop along with at least two members of their districts he added.
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- Congress Incharge for Punjab Thakur Gulchain Singh Charak, Union Minister Shri Rajiv Shukla, PCC President Capt Amarinder Singh and CLP Leader Sh Sunil Jakhar will address a Joint press Conference tomorrow at the PCC, Sec-15 Chandigarh on Monday, September 10 at 12 o'clock. It will be followed by lunch.
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PSPCL ALL SET TO EXTEND THE SERVICE OF ONLINE CALL CENTER TO 47 TOWNS OF THE STATE
- CONSUMER CENTRIC SERVICES TO ENSURE QUICK DISPOSAL OF COMPLAINTS
CHANDIGARH SEPTEMBER 9:
In a significant step aimed at delivering customer friendly services to the consumers, the Punjab State Power Corporation Limited (PSPCL) is all set to extend its ambit of services in 47 towns on the pattern of Centralized Electricity Call Centre (ECC) at Ludhiana besides Customer Care Centres (CCC) set up in six districts of the state.
Disclosing this here today a spokesperson of the Chief Minister’s Office said that Punjab Chief Minister Mr Parkash Singh Badal in pursuit of implementation of Governance reforms in right earnest, had directed the PSPCL authorities to ensure the establishment of these centres across the state to facilitate the people for prompt redressal of their grievances and disposal of complaints. Mr Badal had clearly directed the PSPCL that the state government was firmly committed for providing quality services to the people and ‘zero tolerance’ would be adopted if any laxity on the part of officials was found.
Accordingly the PSPCL has decided to strengthen and expand the scope of Call Centers and customer care services, under the project of IT implementation, in all 47 towns of the state having population more than 30,000. The PSPCL authorities have installed integrated software for the complete computerization of the business process of PSPCL, which has been already customized and was currently under test run at Patiala and Mohali. In order to set up these centers at the earliest the PSPCL has already completed the buildings and other infrastructure required for these centres at all 47 towns and it would be made operational within six months.
This consumer centric approach of the PSPCL would act as direct interface/ single window with the customers for registration of all their service requests/ complaints related to new connections, load extension, meter change, name change and others. These customer care centres equipped with software based working would monitors the requests right from registration to its disposal. Unique registration number in shape of printed slip would be provided to every consumer and subsequently every service required by them would be provided in a stipulated time as per timeframe fixed by the PSPCL. The unique feature of the system would enable the consumers to get all kind of services by registering their requests through IVRS, Website, voice calls and walk in.
It may be recalled that in a major initiative to provide consumer friendly services to the people, the PSPCL had constituted a Centralized Electricity Call Centre (ECC) at Ludhiana and Customer Care Centres (CCC) for 6 major cities including Ludhiana, Jalandhar, Amritsar, Mohali, Patiala and Bathinda, about four years ago, on the directions of Chief Minister. Realizing the successful functioning of the ECC and the CCC coupled with huge response from the people had encouraged the PSPCL to replicate the existing system in 47 towns. The Electricity Call Centre, which has 24 X 7 hours working, caters to the ‘No Supply’ complaints by using the latest technology (including ACD, voice loggers, VPN connectivity etc) for answering the phone-in voice calls from the customers and registering their complaints in the software.
This ECC is supported by a distributed network of Computerized Nodal Complaint Centers (NCC) set up at Division level. The registered complaints are segregated and transferred to these computerized Nodal Complaint Centres from where they are assigned to the field staff for resolution and final closure. On their part the staff has to give the feed back to the call centers to inform them about the status of the complaint and if the complaint is not redressed within the prescribed time limit set up by the PSPCL, the complaint is forwarded to all the officers of the district for prompt action on it.
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SUKHBIR APPROVES RS.8745 CRORE ‘TOTAL URBAN REVAMP PLAN’
- SEWERAGE, WATER SUPPLY, ROADS, LIGHTING, GREENING AND PARKS IN ALL 142 CITIES SET TO GET FACELIFT WITHIN NEXT 5 YEARS
- INTEGRATED PLAN TO EXECUTE ALL WORKS ON TURNKEY BASIS BY SINGLE URBAN DEVELOPMENT AGENCY
- EXECUTING AGENCY TO MAINTAIN SERVICES FOR NEXT 10-15 YEARS
- SUKHBIR TIES UP FUNDING OF MEGA URBAN RENEWAL VISION
Chandigarh, September 9: The Punjab Deputy Chief Minister Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal today approved Rs.8745 crore ‘Total Urban Revamp Plan’ to upgrade all civic services in all 142 cities of Punjab on an integrated turnkey basis plan. The novel feature of the plan is thar for a town single agency would lay the all civic services with a mandate to maintain them in top condition for next 10-15 years.
In a high level meeting with Local Government Minister Chunni Lal Bhagat and Forests Minister Mr. Surjit Kumar Jyani late last night, the Deputy Chief Minister gave final touches to the multi thousand crore mega urban renewal vision that besides bringing timelines for execution of the projects would also bring an element of accountability in it. Presiding over the meeting Mr. Badal asked Principal Secretary Local Government to stagger development of 142 cities in five years and a single urban development agency should execute all civic amenities work including laying and maintaining the sewerage network, water supply network, laying of internal roads and their upgradation, street lighting, maintaining of greenery and parks on turnkey basis. He said that over bridges to be constructed in next 5 years within the city besides other traffic engineering improvement works would also be carried out by that Agency. He said that purpose of execution of all urban renewal projects by single agency was to bring synergy in execution of urban development works and make a single agency accountable for execution and maintenance of the services. He said that the agency would also be responsible for 10-15 years of maintenance and upkeep of all these services.
Focusing on fixing the timeline for execution of the mega project and adherence to the timeline, Mr. Badal suggested that we must have a special Mission Director who would be responsible in getting this project of 142 cities executed. The meeting also tied up funds for next 5 years and distribution of funds to different phases of the project.
It was informed in the meeting that 88% of urban areas were getting water supply and for 100% coverage Rs.980 crore would be required whereas Rs.2759 crore were required to execute to complete remaining 37% sewerage network in the cities. Similarly, Rs.2300 crore were required for sewerage treatment plants whereas Rs.1476 crore were required for roads and parks. The meeting earmarked Rs.730 crore for slum development and housing whereas Rs.500 crore was set aside for fire fighting services.
Stressing the need for making all cities slum free, Mr. Badal earmarked Rs.564.66 crores for this mega project. It was decided in the meeting to sanction Rs.215.57 crore for housing urban poor in the major cities. It was informed that 5728 houses for slum dwellers being constructed at the cost of Rs.149.22 crore at Ludhiana would be completed by March 2013 whereas 1648 houses at Amritsar to be constructed at the cost of Rs.66.35 crore would be completed by March 2013. Similarly, houses for slum dwellers in Rajpura at the cost of Rs.30 crore would be completed by December this year whereas 3680 houses would be constructed at Jalandhar at the cost of Rs.42.40 crore and these would be completed by December this year. The meeting was informed that 5328 houses in Mansa and Bathinda district are being constructed at cost of Rs.253 crores whereas 542 dwelling units in Jalalabad would be constructed at the cost Rs.12.04 crore. 79 dwelling units in Bathinda would be completed at the cost of Rs.11.65 crore.
Mr. Badal said that his mission was to providing world class basic civic amenities to all urbanities including poorest of the poor so that they could live quality life. He said that Punjab Urban Development Mission (PUDM) was focused on making cities slum free besides providing world class infrastructure resources for infrastructure and simultaneously improving governance and citizen centric issues. The meeting decided to launch a campaign to regularize unauthorized water supply and sewerage connection under a separate scheme.
Focusing on reforms in urban development sector it was decided to simplify issuance of CLU and making statuary amendment in the laws.
It was decided to bring 162 services under e-governance and provide time bound service to the citizens to make their lives easy.
Mr. Badal said that he was focusing on making Punjab clean and economically sustainable by providing all citizen centric services in a time bound manner. He said that urban areas of Punjab are all set to get facelift with linking of all major towns with 4/6 laned road network and achievement of vision of surplus power.
Prominent amongst those who were present in the meeting included Mr. Suresh Kumar, Principal Secretary Local Government, Mr. Manvesh Singh Sidhu and Mr. Ajay Kumar Mahajan, Special Principal Secretaries to Deputy Chief Minister.
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WORLD BANK STUDY DECLAERS PUNJAB AS MOST FAVOURED PLACE FOR INVESTMENT IN INDIA-JOSHI
CHANDIGARH, SEPTEMBER 09:
A World Bank Study has declared Punjab as the most favoured place for investment across the country and termed as future growth engine that would propel the national economic growth.
Disclosing this here today Industry and Commerce Minister of Punjab Mr Anil Joshi said that in a latest study of World Bank about the Investment environment in the country, Punjab has been declared as a most preferred destination for investors. He said that the report of World Bank was based on various parameters including record investment by the incumbent government on the infrastructure such as roads, air and rail connectivity and incentives announced by the Punjab Government. Besides that World Bank study specially talked about the Integrated Check post at AttariCP and Rs 21300 crore project Guru Gobind Singh Refinery at Bathinda, that would change the face of Industry in the State.
Mr Joshi said that in the past, investors were facing a big problem of electricity shortage, which is going to become the strength of the State as in next one year all three Thermal Plants would become operational. He said that ICP at Wagha Border would be a boon for trade in Punjab as it was a natural trade route to Central Asia from centuries. Mr Joshi said that keeping in view the large interests of traders, Union Government should enhance the no of items to be exported via ICP from 137 to 6000 as in Mumbai port.
The Minister further stated that, Punjab Government has set an investment target of Rs 1 Lakh crore in the state and to meet this, he has already held series of meeting with giant industrialists at New Delhi. He said that due to the efforts of the SAD-BJP government many world class industrial houses like Videocon has announced to invest in Punjab.
He said that to facilitate the investors, Punjab Government has sanctioned the establishment of Land Bank, so the land required for industry could be provided to investors in a hassle free manner. Besides that government has also made it mandatory to provide all kind of sanctions to investors within 30 days after the application through single window system.
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MILK ADULTERATION TESTING CAMPS WOULD BE ORGANISED IN EVERY DISTRICT: RANIKE
· 8 MOBILE VANS FOR TESTING OF FODDER AND QUALITY OF MILK
CHANDIGARH, SEPTEMBER 9:
The Punjab Dairy Development Department has decided to organize milk adulteration testing camps in each district of the state with a view to provide quality and unadulterated milk in the state besides launching a campaign to make aware the people about the quality of milk.
Disclosing this here today, Mr. Gulzar Singh Ranike, Animal Husbandry and Dairy Development Minister, Punjab said that for this purpose Punjab Government has provided 8 mobile vans for taking samples of milk so that unadulterated milk could be provided to the masses.
Mr. Ranike said that orders have also been issued to organize surprise camps for taking samples of milk and to check their quality besides adulteration. He said that during these camps on the spot quality of milk would be checked by experts of the department while the test reports would also be provided to consumers on the spot. He said that where these mobile vans are adequate for testing of milk samples there these would also be able to test the quality of fodder. He said that the department has chalked out a special program under which at least 30 to 50 milk adulteration testing camps would be organized in each district of the state.
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TEN JUDICIAL COMPLEXES WOULD BECOME FULLY OPERATIONAL BY SEPTEMBER NEXT YEAR: DHILLON
· CONSTRUCTION OF FIVE DISTRICT ADMINISTRATIVE COMPLEXES WOULD BE COMPLETED BY MARCH 2013
CHANDIGARH, SEPTEMBER 9:
Mr. Sharanjit Singh Dhillon, PWD Minister today said that 10 under construction state-of-the-art Judicial Complexes would become fully operational by September, 2013 with a combine cost of Rs.280 crore. He said that the construction of these hi-tech complexes was on full swing at Kapurthala, Pathankot, Ferozepur, Gurdaspur, Barnala, Sardulgarh, Tarn Taran, Zira, Malaut and Batala.
Mr. Dhillon informed that the Punjab would also witness five modern District Administrative Complexes at Tarn Taran, Barnala, Ferozepur, Kapurthala and SAS Nagar (Mohali), which would be ready for operation by March 2013 with a total cost of Rs.270 crore. He said that the construction of 10 Tehsil Complexes at Kharar, Tapa, Chamkaur Sahib, Dhuri, Bholath, Jagraon, Dera Baba Nanak, Moonak, Patran and Budhlada was almost completed, which would be provided to various government offices for the smooth functioning.
Reiterating the resolve of SAD-BJP Government to bring more improvement in the basic infrastructure and road network, Mr. Dhillon said that a high-level bridge worth Rs.60 crore between Ferozepur and Tarn Taran district over river Satluj would be completed by December 2013. He said that the survey is being conducted to identify the important routes along the canals and to widen the road networks along canals.
Divulging the details regarding 4/6 lane projects in Punjab, Mr. Dhillon said that out of total 1739 kilometer National Highways in Punjab, 405 kilometers have been upgraded with the completion of 4/6 lane while the work of 4/6 lane on 400 kilometers was under progress, which would be completed by March 2014.
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DISTRICT LEVEL FARMER TRAINING CAMP FOR RABBI SEASON FROM SEPTEMBER 11
CHANDIGARH, SEPTEMBER 9:
The Punjab government has announced scheduled program for farmers' training camp for Rabbi Season in each district of the state with a view to provide technical information about the sowing of crops. These camps would be organized from 11 to 27 September.
Divulging the details, Mr. Mangal Singh Sandhu, Director Agriculture said that these district level farmer training camps would be held under the supervision of headquarter level officers and first camps would be organized at Sangrur on September 11, 2012, while in district Hoshiarpur and Patiala on Sep 13, district Ferozpur and Saheed Bhagat Singh Nagar on Sep 14, district Mansa and Ajitgarh (SAS Nagar) on Sep 15, in district Tarn Tarna, Jalandhar and Amritsar on 17, in Bathinda on 18, in district Fatehgarh Sahib on Sep 19, in district Sri Muktsar Sahib on Sep 20, in district Barnala and Faridkot on Sep 21, in Gurdaspur/Pathankot on 23, in district Fazilka on Sep 24 by District Agricultural Officer Ferozpur, in Moga and Kapurthala on Sep 26 and in district Ludhiana and Roopnagar the camps would be held on September 27.
Mr. Sandhu said that all the district agriculture officers have been asked to ensure the participation of farmers so that they could get more benefit.
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BADAL FOR SETTING UP SAARC HOSPITALS IN EVERY MEMBER COUNTRY
THE MOVE WOULD ENABLE THE ACCESS OF QUALITY HEALTH CARE FACILITIES TO THE PEOPLE IN THE REGION
CM ADVOCATES ABOLITION OF VISA REGIME AMONGST THE SAARC COUNTRIES
Jalandhar, September 8-
Punjab Chief Minister Mr Parkash Singh Badal today emphasized the need of setting up SAARC hospitals in every member country for providing quality health services to the people of the region.
Addressing the gathering after inaugurating the Annual conference of the SAARC Surgical Care Society here today, the Chief Minister said that setting up of SAARC hospitals was the need of the hour as it would go a long way in delivering best health care facilities to the people besides promoting the people to people contact in the region. Mr Badal said that the renowned surgeons and doctors of the SAARC countries should offer their services to these hospitals, where cheap and quality treatment should be provided to the common man. Offering the land and other infra structure to set up one such hospital in the state, he said that the SAD-BJP government was duty bound to fulfill such a noble cause. The Chief Minister also impressed upon the SAARC surgeons converged on the occasion to make Punjab a base of their institution for carrying out research and other activities related to this pious profession.
Laying thrust on strengthening of ties between Medical fraternities of the SAARC nations, the Chief Minister said that it would benefit the people of these under developed/developing nations by providing them access to quality health care services. Mr Badal said that mutual cooperation and support of Medical fraternities in the region would further prove to be stepping stone for the surgeons of the region by helping them in understanding the new innovations in Medical field besides acquainting them with the new researches.
Advocating the abolition of visa regime amongst the SAARC nations for the promotion of love, peace, brotherhood, co-operation and above all communal harmony and friendship, the Chief Minister said that it would help in heralding a new era of mutual trust and goodwill in the region. Mr Badal expressed hope that the ongoing bilateral talks between the national governments of India and Pakistan on the issue would pave way for this historic decision. Recalling his youthful days spent in Lahore while pursuing graduation in a local college there, Mr Badal said that the vibrant memories of college days, especially related to the mouth watering food of the city, were still afresh in his mind adding that if the visa regime is abolished then he would visit the city every weekend to have the food there.
The Chief Minister further said that it was indeed a matter of pride for the state that such a mega conference was being organized here in which 600 surgeons from SAARC countries and others would discuss their expertise besides focusing on improving health care facilities in these countries. He categorically said the thrust of such conferences should be on providing the access of modern and quality surgical care and facility to the rural areas of the SAARC countries. Lauding the role of the members of SAARC Surgical Care Society to support and educate surgeons and doctors from under-developed countries to update their diagnostic and surgical skills, the Chief Minister said that mission of the society to relieve the suffering mankind from the pangs of agony caused due to deadly diseases was also highly commendable.
Listing the achievements of state government in the field of healthcare, the Chief Minister said thatthe SAD-BJP government was well aware about the importance of quality healthcare facilities for the people due to which it has taken path breaking initiatives in the health sector. He said that owing to the concerted efforts of the state government, Punjab today leads the nation in providing healthcare facilities to the people adding that the state’s performance on Health Infrastructure has been adjudged “excellent” by agency of Government of India.
Mr Badal further said that to provide world class health facilities to the people a massive program of upgradation of infrastructure and equipment in the government hospitals has been embarked by the state government at a cost of Rs 350 crore. The Chief Minister said that realizing well the threat posed by the cancer in the state, their government has already given 50 acres of its land to construct a Cancer Hospital that would come up soon at Medicity in Mullanpur. Likewise he said that deeply concerned about the menace of drug addiction in the state, the Punjab government was setting up five drug de-addiction centers at Amritsar, Jalandhar, Patiala, Faridkot and Bathinda.
The Chief Minister also announced a grant of Rs 20 lakh for the under construction IMA House in the city.
Earlier addressing the gathering former Haryana Chief Minister Chaudhary Om Parkash Chautala urged the surgeons to make strenuous efforts for providing quality health services to the poor people. He also expressed hope that this conference would pave way for new innovations in medical field thereby benefiting the doctors and the people.
Welcoming the Chief Minister, President of SAARC Surgical care Society Dr A Majeed Chaudhary and General Secretary Dr PS Bakshi expressed their gratitude towards him for sparing his valuable time to grace the occasion.
Prominent amongst those present on the occasion included Chief Parliamentary Secretary Mr Avinash Chander, Principal Secretary to the Chief Minister Mr SK Sandhu, Special Principal Secretary to the Chief Minister Mr Gurkirat Kirpal Singh, Commissioner Jalandhar Division Mr SR Ladhar, Police Commissioner Mr Gaurav Yadav, Deputy Commissioner Mr Priyank Bharti and Deputy Police Commissioner Mr Sarabjeet Singh .
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Capt Amarinder thanks workers for successful dharna
CHANDIGARH, September 8: Punjab Pradesh Congress Committee President Capt Amarinder Singh today thanked the party workers and leaders for the success of the dharna on Friday against the punitive taxes imposed by the government.
In a message to the party leaders and the District Congress Committee presidents on the holding of the dharna, he said, it was the joint and collective effort of all of them which ensured its success.
Capt Amarinder appealed the party leaders and workers to show the same unity and strength in the coming days so that the people's programmes are effectively carried out and the anti-people policies of the government are vigorously opposed.
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SOI WILL RECONSTITUTE ITS ORGANIZATIONAL STRUCTURE BY OCTOBER 30-RAJU KHANNA
· Winning all the 12 SOI candidates wins student council elections of Panjab University and its colleges SOI all set to upkeep this glory
Chandigarh, September 8
Mr. Gurpreet Singh Raju Khanna, Chairman Youth Development Board and President Student Organistaion of India (SOI), the student wing of Shiromani Akali Dal, today said that the organization structure of SOI would be reconstituted by October 30 to give due place to able and outstanding students in the organization. He said that as SOI has repeated it last year performance by wining all the 12 seats in the student council elections of Punjab University and its colleges, Youth Akali Dal President and Patron SOI Mr. Bikram Singh Majithia had issued fresh guidelines to the organistion to work in a more systematic way to upkeep this glory and strengthen the organistion.
Talking to media persons here at the head office of Shiromani Akali Dal after felicitating the winning SOI candidates, Mr. Gurpreet Singh Raju Khanna said that after winning all the 12 seats in alliance with SOPU the SOI has aimed for fighting next year elections on its own. He said that SOI was working on a step by step program to outline and solve all the major problems being faced by the students. He said that the SOI has made a strategy to solve the students’ major issues within a year.
Earlier honoring the winning candidates of the organization, Mr. Raju Khanna appealed to the leaders of the organization to work as a bridge between party and people of the state. He said that the leaders of the organization should convey the achievements of the SAD-BJP government to the people of state and also give a feedback of the needs, demands and problems of students of the state to him so that he can convey these to the party President. He directed all the members of the organization to work with full zeal and dedication as organization would give them due representation on the basis of their performance.
Amongst others Mr. Simranjit Singh Gharuan, President SOI Mohali, Mr. Sarabjit Singh Jhinjar, President SOI Fatehgarh and Mr. Raman Versma Incharge of all the Colleges at Chandigarh were also present on the occasion.
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SHIROMANI AKALI DAL
BOOKING TYTLER BY ODISHA POLICE ON RIOTING
KEEP PROFESSIONAL RIOT ORGANISOR BEHIND THE BARS PERMANENTLY--SAD
FREE TYTLER DANGEROUS FOR SOCIETY-NK SHARMA
Chandigarh, Sept 8 : The Shiromani Akali Dal today demanded immediate arrest of Congress leader Jagdish Tytler, the main architect of 1984 anti sikh carnage, who was also booked by the odisha police for organising riots, attemting murder of lady police officer and causing unrest in the society.
In a statement issued from the party headoffice here today, party Treasurer and Joint Secretary Mr. NK Sharma said that Shiromani Akali Dal since last 27 years had been demanding that keeping Jagdish Tytler and Sajjan Kumar free was harmful for whole society. He said that Congress party due to reasons known to everyone was saving Mr. Jagdish Tytler and Sajjan Kumar from custodial interrogation as they fear that they may spill the beans in the custody raising their finger on involvment of Congress high command in organising largest ever anti sikh carnage on the streets of national capital on India. He said that it was shameful for the largest democracy of the world that we could not give justice to more than three thousand sikhs who were killed in broad day light under the leadership of Tytler and Sajjan Kumar.
He said that Congress party instead of ensuring stringent punishments to both the leaders had been awarding them with party tickets and posts. He said that SAD had opposed the appointment of Tytler as Incharge Odisha and Incharge of Congress Sewa dal and had demanded his immediate removal but Congress party struck to its old stand to award and honour him. He said that yesterday's organised riots by Jagdish Tytler and other Congressmen in Bhubneshwar vindicated the stand of the SAD that he was a hardcore and professional riot organisor whose services were being availed by Congress high Command.
Demanding his immediate arrest and imprisonment for whole life for sake of safetier society, Mr. Sharma urged Judiciary should to take suo moto notice of the incident and order his immediate arrest.
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WORK ON JANG-E-AZAADI MEMORIAL TO START SOON- BADAL
CM VISITS THE SITE OF THE PROPOSED MEMORIAL
Kartarpur (Jalandhar), September 8-
Punjab Chief Minister Mr Parkash Singh Badal today said that in order to showcase the supreme sacrifices of the Punjabis in the Indian freedom struggle, the state government would soon start the work on the construction of Jang-e-Azaadi memorial at Kartarpur.
The Chief Minister who visited the site of the proposed memorial in the morning here today, also held a meeting with the key officials to expedite the process of starting the work on this ambitious project. During the deliberations Mr Badal was apprised that as per his directions the 25 acres of land belonging to the state government has been transferred to the Tourism and Culture department for the construction of the memorial.
The Chief Minister said that the work on this world class memorial which would help inperpetuating the rich cultural heritage of the state amongst the coming generations would start soon as the state government was on the verge of finalizing the necessary formalities for it. He said that this state of art memorial to be constructed at a cost of Rs 100 crore would be a humble but befitting tribute from the state government to the great heroes and martyrs from all over the country, who had laid down their lives to free our motherland from the yoke of British imperialism.
Mr Badal said that the site of the memorial has been carefully selected by the state government as it lies on the National highway number one, which would facilitate the people across the border to visit the memorial and pay homage to the freedom fighters. He said that this memorial would prove to be a source of inspiration for the coming generations besides being a major catalyst in inculcating the values of patriotism and nationalism in them The Chief Minister further said that he along with the other members of the concept committee constituted for the memorial, had recently visited Cellular Jail at Port Blair in Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Sabarmati Ashram at Ahmadabad, famous Akshardham Temple at Gandhinagar in Gujarat, ‘Teen Murti Bhawan’ and the hi-tech museum showcasing significant aspects related to the National freedom struggle in Parliament house at New Delhi for seeking vital inputs and information for the finalization of the concept and design of this state of the art memorial.
Prominent amongst those present on the occasion included Chief Editor of the Ajit Group of Newspapers and the Member Secretary of Jang-e-Azaadi foundation Dr Barjinder Singh Hamdard, Principal Secretary to the Chief Minister Mr SK Sandhu, Special Principal Secretary to the Chief Minister Mr Gurkirat Kirpal Singh, Deputy Commissioner Mr Priyank Bharti and Chairman of District Planning Committee Mr Gurcharan Singh Channi.
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ONE DRO, 2 TEHSILDARS AND 5 NAIB TEHSILDARS TRANSFERRED
Chandigarh, September 8: The Punjab government has issued new posting/transfer orders of one DRO, 2 Tehsildars and 5 Naib Tehsildars with immediate effect.
According to an official spokesman, Mr.Jatinder Singh has been posted as District Revenue Officer at Patiala with an additional charge of Fatehgarh Sahib. Besides that Mr Jivan jot Singh has been posted as Tehsildar Guru Harsahaye and Mr Sabdhura Singh at Lehragaga.
He further said that Sukhdev Singh has been posted as Naib Tehsildar at Sahnewal, Gurmeet Singh at Lehragaga, Parminder Singh at Bhadson, Ranjit Singh at Kapurthala and Manvir singh Dhillon at Dhillwan .
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Punjab Government appoint NEW MEDICAL Officers
Chandigarh, 8th September:
The Punjab Government has appointed new 106 Medical Officers (Dental). These doctors were handed over Appointment letters by Sh Madan Mohan Mittal, Health & Family Welfare Minister, Punjab during a ceremony held at Directorate of Health and Family Welfare, Punjab, Sector 34, Chandigarh. He was accompanied by Dr Navjot Kaur Sidhu, Chief Parliamentary Secretary, Health, Punjab and Ms. Vini Mahajan, Principal Secretary, Health and Family Welfare, Punjab.
While addressing the newly appointed dental doctors, Sh Madan Mohan Mittal welcomed them to the Department of Health & Family Welfare, Punjab. He lauded the role of the health department for holding the recruitment process in a most fair and transparent manner. He added that for the convenience of the candidates, the department has adopted the procedure to give place of postings to the candidates as per their choices, according to their merits. He stressed the doctors to work with sincerity and provide good health care services to the people, especially the poor people. He urged them to add grace to the reputation of the health department through their hard work and sincerity. Sh Mittal reiterated the commitment of the Government to provide good health care at the doorsteps of the people.
Dr Navjot Kaur Sidhu stated that the profession of doctors was a noble profession and they are considered next to God. Unlike other professionals who deal with machines, the profession of doctor's is related to human beings and they have the skills to save the precious lives. She exhorted the newly appointed doctors serve the humanity, selflessly and with highest dedication. The more and more you give in to your profession, the more and more you will rise. She asked the doctors to refrain from ill-practices like private practice etc.
Ms Vini Mahajan, welcomed the doctors to the fold of the department and also personally interacted with them. She addressed queries of doctors on various issues pertaining to their appointments and joining. She said that Health Care services is one of the top priority area and to meet the shortage of doctors, recently the Specialists and MBBS doctors were appointed and now the Medical Officers Dental have been given appointment letters. She said that all other vacant posts of doctors and para-medical staff that were vacant since long are now being filled at a very fast pace, the step which would give a major boost to the health services in the state.
Dr J.P. Singh, Director Health Services and Dr Karanjit Singh, Director Family Welfare also addressed the newly appointed doctors.
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KULWINDER SINGH KAKA ELECTED CHAIRMAN OF PUNCOFED
Chandigarh, September 8:
The Board of Directors meeting of The Punjab State Cooperative Development Fed. Ltd. (PUNCOFED) was held on 8-9-2012 in which Mr. Kulwinder Singh Kaka was elected as Chairman and Mr. Baldev Singh Chakkal was elected Vice Chairman unopposed.
Speaking on the occasion Mr. Kulwinder Singh Kaka thanked Mr. Parkash Singh Badal, Chief Minister Punjab and Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal, Deputy Chief Minister Punjab and said that he will strive hard for the job assigned to him in taking the schemes and policies run by Cooperative Department of Punjab Government at the door steps of villagers, efforts will be made to make the village level societies strong so that farmers may be economically strong. Mr. Avtar Singh Vanwala OSD to Deputy Chief Minister, Punjab was especially present on the occasion and said that the Deputy Chief Minister has congratulated Mr. Kulwinder Singh Kaka for being elected as Chairman, Mr. Baldev Singh Chakkal as Vice Chairman and Board of Directors of Puncofed.
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 MAJITHIA STRESSES THE NEED TO LAUNCH COMMUNITY AND CONFIDENCE BUILDING PROGRAM IN UNITED STATES
- US REPUBLICAN CURT WELDON CALLS ON MAJITHIA
- ASSURES TO EDUCATE AMERICANS ABOUT THE SEPARATE IDENTITY OF SIKHS THROUGH COMMUNITY PROGRAMS......READ
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Capt Amarinder leads thousands of Congressmen to dharna against punitive taxes
LUDHIANA, September 7:
Punjab Pradesh Congress Committee President Capt Amarinder Singh today led thousands of Congress workers staging a massive protest dharna against the punitive tax regime imposed by the Akali-BJP government in the state.
He was accompanied by senior party leaders including the Congress Legislative Party Leader Sunil Jakhar, local MP and the National Spokesperson of the Congress Manish Tewari. The District Congress Committee, Ludhiana president Pawan Dewan, MLAs Bharat Bhushan Ashu, Gurkirat Kotli, Surinder Dawer, Rakesh Pandey, Amrik Dhillon, Gurcharan Singh Boparai and others.
Later the Congress leaders also submitted a memorandum, addressed to the Governor, to the Deputy Commissioner, Ludhiana.
The Congress workers were raising slogans against the government demanding withdrawal of the taxes. The protest started around 10 am in the morning and concluded at 2 pm with the address of the PCC President Capt Amarinder Singh.
Addressing the protestors Capt Amarinder questioned the logic of imposing such punitive taxes which will only stifle the trade and industry in the state. He said, the government instead of imposing such heavy taxes should better have expanded the base by making investment friendly policies which would invite investment and not only generate revenue but also create jobs.
The PCC President asked the government if it really needed so much money to impose such harsh taxes in the state, then what was the need to buy a helicopter for Rs 38 crores? “That means you are actually robbing people for your own comforts”, he remarked while adding, the state government was resorting to profligacy and not cutting its useless expenses.
He pointed out, while the economy is tantrums the Chief Minister Parkash Singh Badal and his entire family had gone on the world tour on government expenses. He asked when the state does not have any money why does it need 21 Chief Parliamentary Secretaries and so many advisors to the Chief Minister with cabinet rank, pay, perks and other things. He asked the government to better stop the wasteful expenditure than impose taxes.
The Punjab Congress President said that the protests will continue till the government did not roll back these taxes. He said, every section of the society was upset and annoyed with the government and people wanted their voice to be raised and the Congress was just doing that. He also welcomed the Sanjha Morcha programme to protest against the government.
Prominent among those present included Punjab Youth Congress President Vikram Chaudhary, Tej Parkash, Milkiat Singh Birmi, Jassi Khangura, Isher Singh Meharban, Vikram Bajwa, Jagjivan Gill, Gurdeep Bhaini, Gurmail Pahalwan, Leena Taparia, Jagdeep Sidhu, Parminder Mehta, Amarjit Singh Tikka, Sonu Dhesi, Bhupinder Singh Sidhu, Pappi Prashar, Major Amardeep, Karanpal Sekhon, Anand Swarup Singh Mohi and others.
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LET CAPT. LEAD DHARNA IN DELHI
WE WILL SUPPORT HIM- MAJITHIA
MANPREET AND CAPT. LIKE BRIDES IN SEARCH OF GROOMS-MAJITHIA
Chandigarh, September 7:
Revenue and Public Relations Minister Punjab Mr. Bikram Singh Majithia today accused Capt. Amarinder Singh and PPP leader Manpreet Singh Badal of double speak and hypocrisy. In a statement released today Mr. Majithia said they had often changed their stands and their so called principles for their political survival.
Majithia said Manpreet and Capt. Amarinder have realized that to ensure their respective political survival they had to act like crutches for each other. They were both willing to do anything and embrace anyone to ensure their political survival. He reminded Amarinder that the same Manpreet Badal he was seeking support from was referred to as a "Summer Storm" by him some time back. Mr. Majithia said the eagerness for an alliance shown by both Capt. Amarinder and Manpreet clearly shows that both of them were not getting any support from the people of Punjab which has made them jittery. It is ironical that just before the elections both these leaders were spitting venom and even refused to acknowledge each other. They even talked about forming govt's on their own. Now feeling the ground shift under their feet they are ready to embrace each other. "A party like the Congress has not been able to stage dharnas at district headquarters on its own strength," said Mr. Majithia.
Hitting out at Capt. Amarinder, Majithia said, if Capt. was serious enough and really wanted to do something for the people of Punjab he should stage a 'dharna' in front of 10 Janpath and 7 Race Course Road because it was the UPA Government which was denying grants to Punjab as the state had not levied any taxes. "Let him lead the dharna and we will support him." said Majithia. Mr. Majithia questioned Capt. Amarinder Singh as to why he never raised his voice or protested against the UPA government when Punjab was discriminated against at every step. The UPA Government has always adopted a step motherly treatment vis-à-vis Punjab whether it concerns drought relief, loan waiver for farmers or waiving off the loan. Punjab incurred fighting the nations battle against militancy, said Majithia. Mr. Majithia further said that "These dharans have nothing to do with issues of Punjab, they are infact an attempt by Capt. Amarinder to save his chair but it seems to be a case of too little too late".
Mr. Majithia further said that Congress was the mother of all ills plaguing the country. He held the Congress responsible for inflation, corruption, multi crore scams and mis-governance of the country. Even 65 years after independence there is a vast section still living with an income of Rs. 30/-. Strengthening his argument, Majithia compared the increase of prices of essential commodities during the NDA and UPA regime. The increase in prices of petrol, diesel, kerosene, LPG and other essential commodities has increased manifold in the UPA regime.
He lashed out at Manpreet Badal saying," Manpreet is a person without principles and his changing stances on issues reveals his true character." He said Manpreet as long as he was Finance Minister had always been advocating imposition of taxes to improve the fiscal health of the state. He always said the state cannot survive on freebies and subsidies. Now he talks of dharnas and courting arrest against the very taxes he was advocating.
Hitting hard at Capt. and Manpreet said they were both like "brides desperately in search of grooms". He said both of them have been rejected by the people of Punjab and they are willing to leave their so called principles for their political survival as their political careers have been decimated by the people of Punjab. Both these leaders who had spoken so much against each other were now in a "courtship period", and everyone knew where it was leading. He further said that now they should stop befooling the people of Punjab as people have seen their true colours.
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PB GOVT RECONSTITUTES BORDER AREA ADVISORY COUNCIL
- CM WOULD BE THE CHAIRMAN, DY CM & VARIOUS MPs, MLAs AND PRINCIPAL SECRETARIES INDUCTED AS MEMBER
CHANDIGARH, SEPTEMBER 7:
The Punjab Government has reconstituted Punjab State Border Area Advisory Council for the overall development of the border areas. Mr. Parkash Singh Badal, Chief Minister, Punjab would be chairman of this council, whereas Deputy Chief Minister, MPs, MLAs and Principal Secretaries of different departments have been inducted as members. It is pertinent to mention here that state government has also been reconstituted Kandi and Bet Areas Advisory Councils in the past.
Disclosing this here, an official spokesman said that this council would act to define the border areas of the state. It would also be the function of this council to aid and advice the government in drawing up schemes and programs for the development of these areas.
Elaborating the functioning of this council, the spokesman further said that this council would undertake the area planning of these border areas in order to ensure integrated and all round development of these areas, to fix priorities of various development works to be executed in these areas, to co-ordinate and review the activities of various departments with a view to remove the bottlenecks in the speedy implementation of programs, to take effective steps for spreading literacy in these areas and to devise measures to raise the standard of living of the backward section, landless labourers and agricultural works in these area.
The spokesman further said that apart from Deputy Chief Minister, the other official members of these council included Revenue Minister, Finance Minister, Chief Secretary, Financial Commissioner, Development, Financial Commissioner, Forest and Wild Life, Principal Secretary, Finance, Principal Secretary, Industries and Commerce, Principal Secretary, Irrigation, Principal Secretary, Planning, Principal Secretary, Home, Secretary, Power, Secretary, School Education, Secretary, PWD (B&R), Secretary, Water Supply and Sanitation, Chairman cum MD, Punjab State Transmission Corporation Limited, Chairman cum MD, Punjab State Power Corporation Limited, Inspector General BSF Jalandhar and Deputy Commissioners of Amritsar, Gurdaspur, Pathankot, Ferozpur, Fazilka and Tarn Taran.
He further said that non-official members from Amritsar are MP Amritsar, MLAs of Raja Sansi, Attari and Ajnala, from district Pathankot; MP Gurdaspur and MLA Bhoa from district Ferozpur; MP Ferozpur and MLAs of Ferozpur City, Guru Harsahai, Zira and Ferozpur Rural, from district Fazilka; MLAs of Jalalbad, Abohar, Balluana and Fazilka, from district Gurdaspur; MP Gurdaspur and MLAs of Dera Baba Nanak, Gurdaspur, Dinanagar and Fatehgarh Churian and from District Tarn Taran; MP Khadoor Sahib and MLAs of Patti, Tarn Taran and Khemkaran have been inducted in this council.
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EDUCATION DEPARTMENT TO EXTEND COMPUTER EDUCATION TO TEACHERS/STUDENTS WITH THE HELP OF AIFT
· TEACHERS AND STUDENTS CAN VISIT WEBSITE FOR DETAILED INFORMATION- EDUCATION DEPTT.
Chandigarh September 7:-
The Punjab education department has decided to extend quality computer education of International Standard with the help of American Indian Foundation Trust (AIFT). The Punjab Government has already been imparting computer education to various means.
An official spokesman of the education department said that AIFT has developed the software for this programme. In this software special curriculum has been provided to impart computer education to the students for class 6th to 10th.
He further said that students/teachers could download related information from the website www.depunjab.org andwww.ssapunjab.org.
The spokesman further said that this information could help enable students to get modern computer education and they can excel in competition.
He also said that the students can download any of the information relating to any content free of cost from this website. Similarly teachers can also downloaded related information and distribute it to the students.
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OFFICERS/EMPLOYEES ASKED TO DEPOSIT COPIES OF PAN CARD
CHANDIGARH, September 7
The Punjab Government today asked all its Officers/Employees posted at Punjab Civil Secretariat to deposit their PAN card copies with the account branches.
A Spokesperson of the Punjab Government today said that all officers and employees should deposit their PAN card copies in person as soon as possible, so that the income tax could be deducted from their salaries regularly. He said that in the case of IAS and IPS officers it was the duty of their personal staff to deposit the copies of PAN card.
He further said that instructions has been issued to all Principal Secretaries, Secretaries, Additional Secretaries , Joint Secretaries, Under Secretaries , OSDs, Deputy Secretaries, Senior Special Secretaries, Secretaries, Superintendent Grade-1, Private Secretaries and PA s to follow the instructions in this regard.
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CEO PUNJAB ASKS OFFICERS/EMPLOYEES TO REGISTER AS VOTERS
· ELECTION DUTY OFFICER MUST HAVE A VOTE
CHANDIGARH, September 7: The Chief Electoral Officer of Punjab today asked all the officers and Employees of Punjab Government to register themselves as voters in the Voter lists.
A Spokesperson of the Chief Electoral Office today said that according to the schedule released by the Election Commission of India, Officers/Employees would be able to register as voters from October first to 31, 2012 with the Electoral Registration Officer or Booth Level Officer.
He further said that, during the last Assembly Elections in the state, names of many Officers and Employees were found missing from the Voter lists, who had performed election duty as Presiding Officers/Poling Officers and BLOs. He said that according to the Election Commission of India to perform the election duty , it was mandatory for a Government official to be a voter.
CEO also asked to all Administrative Secretaries, Heads of Boards and Corporations, Managing Directors, Divisional Commissioners, Deputy Commissioners and all District Election officers to issue orders to employees working under them in this regard.
He further said that to get registered as new voter one would have to deposit the form no 6 with the BLO or the Election Registration officer of the concerned area. Besides that the Officer/Employee willing to correct his/her name in the voter list, would have to deposit the form no 8 with the BLO or the Election Registration officer.
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ONE IPS AND 10 PPS OFFICERS TRANSFERRED
Chandigarh, September 7: The Punjab government has issued new posting/transfer orders of one IPS and 10 PPS officers on administrative ground with immediate effect.
According to an official spokesman, Mr. Nilambri J-Vijay, IPS has been posted ADCP-1 Ludhiana and Mr. Parampal Singh, PPS as SP City-2, Ajitgarh, Mohali, Ms. Sunita Rani, PPS as SP Traffic , Mohali, Mr. Balwant Singh, PPS as SP (H), Fatehgarh Sahib, Mr. Manjit Singh Dhesi, PPS as Assistant Commandant, 75th Bn. PAP, Jalandhar, Mr. Harbhajan Singh PPS as SP, GRP, Patiala, Mr. Manmohan Sharma, PPS as SP (H), Fazilka, Mr. Balbir Singh, PPS as SP (D), Fazilka, Mr. Bhupinder Singh, PPS as SP(D), Khanna, Mr. Jai Pal Singh, PPS as AIG/Counter Intelligence (II), Bathinda and Mr. Sandeep Goel, PPS as SP, Vigilance Bureau (EOW Wing ), Punjab, Chandigarh.
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SUKHBIR ASSURES EARLY RELIEF TO AMRITSAR INDUSTRY AND TRADE
- SABJI MANDI TO GET FACELIFT WITH IN ONE WEEK
- CONSTITUTES A COMMITTEE TO REVIEW INFRASTRUCTURE TAX ON RICE MILLS
Amritsar, September 6: The Punjab Deputy Chief Minister Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal today assured an early relief to Industry Trade and other sections of the Amritsar area that called on him to seek various kinds of relief in taxation policy.
Revenue & Public Relations Minister Mr. Bikram Singh Majithia pleaded the cause of various sectors of Industry & Trade and requested Deputy Chief Minister who is also holding Excise & Taxation portfolio and impressed upon Deputy Chief Minister to take an early call on their requests.
Taking serious view of break down of civic conditions in Sabzi Mandi, Mr. Badal asked Punjab Mandi Board to take immediate steps to restore sewerage and water supply network in the Mandi besides making all arrangements for cleanliness there. He also asked electricity authorities to upgrade power infrastructure in Mandi for quality power supply. Mr. Badal said that if Punjab Mandi was earning mandi fee from Amritsar mandi the board was duty bound to provide all civic amenities in the mandi.
Reacting to the demand made by Punjab Rice Millers Association for exemption from 3% Punjab Infrastructure Development Fund, Mr. Badal constituted a three member committee to study this issue thread bare and make a suggestion thereof. He said that the committee would make detailed assessment of investment potential if PIDF was waved, compare it with neighbouring state and also calculate the indirect saving by the state if the farmers switch over from Parmal to Basmati Paddy. Mr. Badal asked the committee its report within one week.
Prominent amongst those who were present in the meeting included Mr. Gurinderjit Singh Sandhu, Financial Commissioner Development, Mr. A.R. Talwar, Financial Commissioner Industries, Mr. Jagpal Singh, Financial Commissioner Animal Husbandry, Mr. D.P. Reddy Principal Secretary Excise & Taxation, Mr. A. Venuparsad Commissioner Excise & Taxation, Mr. Gurwaryam Singh Comptroller Printing & Stationery, Mr. Manvesh Singh Sidhu, Special Principal Secretary to Deputy Chief Minister.
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Capt Amarinder calls for opposition unity without compromising ideology
PHILAUR (JALLANDHAR), September 6: Punjab Pradesh Congress Committee President Capt Amarinder Singh today called for unity among various opposition parties to fight the anti-people policies of the state government without compromising on their basic ideologies.
Addressing a well attended public meeting organized by senior party leader and former minister Chaudhary Santokh Singh and Punjab Youth Congress president Vikram Chaudhary, Capt Amarinder said, all the opposition parties had agreed on one thing that this government was imposing punitive taxes on people only their approaches were different. He said, if the opposition will fight the anti-people policies of the government jointly it will certainly yield better results.
The PCC President reiterated that he was not calling for a political alliance at the moment but an understanding on a common minimum programme in the interest of the people of the state. He said, he was encouraged by the response of Manpreet Badal who was in full agreement but could not join our protest because the time period for his party to join was short.
Replying to a question about the government not lasting the full term, the former Chief Minister maintained that the situation was fast developing towards lawlessness and financial emergency. He pointed out, once things get out of control whether it was the economy or law and order the President’s rule is the obvious consequence.
However, at the same time he made it clear that the Congress will exhaust all the legal and democratic options like protests and bandhs to make this government have some sense and reverse the anti people decisions.
Capt Amarinder said, this government was working with deceit and had imposed the taxes through backdoor. Since they were afraid to debate the issue in the assembly they did not impose the taxes in the budget and brought these through backdoor which is unconstitutional.
Addressing the meeting the Congress Legislative Party leader Sunil Jakhar said that this government was not only financially bankrupt but ideologically as well. He said, it was trying to use all the foul means to oppose the Congress programmes. He said, people were so upset that they were coming out in great numbers to support the Congress protests.
Among others present on the occasion included Chaudhary Jagjit, Chaudhary Santokh, Guriqbal Kaur, Satnam Kainth, Kamaljeet Laly, Vikram Chaudhary and others.
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FIRST WALK-IN-INTERVIEW OF SPECIALIST DOCTORS ON SEPT 17
Chandigarh September 6 : In order to provide better health care facilities to the people and bridge the gap of shortage of doctors in the state, the Department selection committee constituted to conduct walk-in-interviews of Specialist Doctors, would hold the first round of walk-in-interview on 17th September 2012 in the premises of State Institute of Health & Family Welfare, Phase-VI, Ajitgarh (Mohali). The Punjab Council of Ministers had given its nod to hold such walk-in-interview to appoint specialist doctors on 16th of each month (or next working day in case 16th is a holiday), during the Cabinet meeting held on 28th August 2012. The Cabinet had decided that recruitment of Specialists may be taken out of the purview of the PPSC and these posts filled through ‘walk-in- interviews’ as well as campus recruitments from amongst the pass-outs of Medical Colleges of Punjab state and the doctors pursuing MD courses at PGIMER, Chandigarh.
This was stated here today by Dr. J.P. Singh, Director, Health & Family Welfare, Punjab. He said that number of posts in various specialities that are lying vacant would now be filled through these walk-in-interviews each month. He informed that speciality wise vacant posts are Anaesthesia 60, Gynaecology 48, Medicine 39, Paediatrics 127, Radiology 37, Psychiatry 23, Surgery 23, Pathology 8, Orthopaedics 9, TB & Chest 5, Ophthalmology 4, Skin 2, Community Medicine 2 and ENT 1.
Director Health informed that interested candidates can appear in the walk-in-interview on 17/09/2012. He said that the selection of candidates will be held in fair and transparent manner as per the approved criteria and shall be based on interview only.
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SUKHBIR CONDOLES HAKAM SUFI’S UNTIMELY DEMISE
CHANDIGARH SEPTEMBER 6:
Punjab Deputy Chief Minister Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal today expressed grief over the untimely demise of renowned Punjabi folk singer Hakam Sufi, who passed away yesterday.
Describing Mr. Sufi as a legend of Punjabi folk singing, Mr. Badal said that his melodious voice and selection of pure literary songs depicting rich Punjab culture had made him one of the most respected singers of Punjab. He said that the unparalleled contribution of Hakam Sufi in promotion of Punjab, Punjabi and Punjabiyat would ever be remembered by one and all.
Expressing his heart-felt sympathies with the members of the bereaved family, the Deputy Chief Minister prayed to the Almighty to give them courage and strength to bear this irreparable loss and grant peace to the departed soul.
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PHILLAUR MOURNS SAD DEMISE OF HAKAM SUFI
Chandigarh September 6:
Mr. Sarwan Singh Phillaur, Tourism and Cultural Affairs Minister Punjab has expressed shock over the sad and untimely demise of renowned Punjabi singer and lyricist Hakam Sufi.
In his condolence message, the minister said that Hakam Sufi has not only taken the Punjabi folk music to the newer heights but also made ‘Dafli’ popular as an instrument all over. He said that with the passing away of Hakam Sufi, Punjab has lost a promising artist and created a void in the f Punjabi folk music, which would be difficult to be filled in the near future. Expressing his heart-felt sympathies with the members of the bereaved family, the Minister prayed to the Almighty to give them courage and strength to bear this irreparable loss and grant eternal peace to the departed soul.
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PUNJAB TO ORGANIZE “PUNJABI FILM FESTIVAL” EVERY YEAR TO RECOGNIZE OUTSTANDING PUNJABI CINEMA – SUKHBIR
- PUNJABI CINEMA ALL SET TO COMPETE WITH BOLLYWOOD
- PUNJAB TO COME WITH THE POLICY TO PROMOTE PUNJABI CINEMA
- ATTENDS THE PREMIER OF MANMOHAN SINGH DIRECTED PUNJABI MOVIE “AAJ DE RANJHE”
Chandigarh, September 6: The Punjab Deputy Chief Minister Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal today announced that Punjab government would organize Punjabi Film Festival every year on the pattern of Indian Film Festival to give recognition to outstanding and offbeat Punjabi movies.
Speaking to media persons at the world premier of Punjabi film “Aaj De Ranjhe” scripted and directed by Manmohan Singh here today. Mr. Badal said that the way Punjabi Cinema has evolved itself in recent years it was giving a stiff competition to Bollywood as far as quality and standard of film making was concerned. He said that Punjab government was fully conscious of need to promote Punjabi cinema and this festival would be catalytic in giving impetus to Punjabi movies to strive for the best.
Mr. Badal praising Manmohan Singh with offbeat movie “Aaj De Ranjhe” said that besides being entertaining this movie conveys the underlying message to the masses. He said that he was happy that this movie has tried to educate public regarding reforms in Punjab police initiated by him.
On this occasion stars of the movie Aman Dhaliwal, Heroine Gurleen Chopra, Comedian Gurpreet Ghuggi, Rana Ranbir welcomed Deputy Chief Minister.
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PUNJAB GOVERNMENT INTRODUCES NEW POLICY FOR STREAMLINING THE PROCESS OF GETTING ‘VIGILANCE CLEARANCE’
VB TO PREPARE NEGATIVE LIST OF THE TAINTED GOVERNMENT EMPLOYEES
LISTS TO BE UPDATED AFTER EVERY FORTNIGHT FOR NECESSARY ACTION
CHANDIGARH SEPTEMBER 6:
In a bid to streamline the process of getting Vigilance Clearance for the retiring employees or those who are seeking the promotions, the Punjab government has introduced a new policy under which the Vigilance Bureau (VB) would prepare department wise negative list of the employees involved in any vigilance enquiry against whom FIR had been registered by them.
Disclosing this here today a spokesperson of the Chief Minister’s Office said that, Chief Minister Mr Parkash Singh Badal cleared the proposal mooted by the Vigilance Department based on the recommendations of a three member committee comprising Secretary Personnel Mr Anirudh Tiwari, Special Secretary Vigilance Mr Arun Sekhri and Additional Legal Remembrancer (LR) Mr BR Garg. Mr Badal directed the Vigilance Department for implementing this policy expediously to prevent the employees from the inconvenience caused due to inordinate delay in seeking Vigilance Clearance Certificate.
The spokesperson said that in accordance of new policy the VB would supply a department wise negative list of the government employees against whom FIR had been registered by them at any point of time. The VB would be required to update this list after every fortnight for sending it to the respective administrative departments through the Vigilance department. The copy of this list would also be forwarded to the Administrative Secretary of the concerned department for information and the necessary action. In between the period of these 15 days the VB would inform the administrative department regarding any significant development about the government employee of their department involved in the FIR.
Under the new policy the employee seeking Vigilance clearance for his retirement or promotion would have to submit a self declaration regarding his involvement/ non involvement in any case. After receiving the declaration the Head of the Department (HOD) of the concerned employee would check the negative and the updated lists provided by the VB and decide the case at his level if the name of employee does not figure in the negative list. However if the name of the employee figures in the negative list then the HOD would refer the case to VB for getting the latest status before taking any final decision regarding the employee.
The new policy stipulates a response time of 10 days, which include four days for the Vigilance Department and six days for the Vigilance Bureau, fixed for processing and sending reply to the administrative department. However if no reply is sent to the administrative department then it would be presumed that no case was pending against the concerned employee, the responsibility of which would be fully that of the VB. The VB would also upload the negative list of the employees and update it on daily basis on its under construction website having limited accessibility mainly comprising of the CVOs of the various departments.
It may be recalled that earlier it was mandatory for the concerned administrative departments to send the cases for getting pension clearance certificate for the retiring government employees to the Vigilance Department one year prior to the date of his retirement. However as it was a long drawn process which consumed a lot of time and energy so all the retiring employees of the state government along with those seeking promotion had to face plethora of problems while seeking the Vigilance clearance certificate from the Vigilance Bureau (VB). Realizing the hardships faced by of employees and to ensure minimal inconvenience to them on this count, the state government had taken this path breaking initiative in continuance of its endeavor to pursue its flagship program of Governance reforms.
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CM MOURNS SAD DEMISE OF HAKAM SUFI
DESCRIBES HIM AS ‘CULTURAL AMBASSADOR’ AND LOVER OF PUNJAB, PUNJABI AND PUNJABIYAT
CHANDIGARH SEPTEMBER 6:
Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today deeply mourned the sad demise of the noted Punjabi folk singer Hakam Sufi, who passed away on Wednesday at his home in Gidderbaha, following a massive cardiac arrest.
Describing Mr. Sufi as a ‘legendary Punjabi folk singer who entertained millions of Punjabi music and cinema lovers with his melodious voice, the Chief Minister in his condolence message said that death of Sufi has created a void in the arena of Punjabi folk music and cinema, which would be difficult to be filled in the near future. Lauding the contribution of Sufi in promoting Punjabi language and culture, Mr. Badal said that Hakam Sufi was a cultural ambassador and an ardent lover of Punjab, Punjabi and Punjabiyat whose scintillating songs would ever keep him alive in the hearts of his fans. The Chief Minister said that Sufi, who took up singing as a career in 1970s, was a multi faceted personality who also served as a teacher besides regaling people with his golden voice.
Sharing his heart-felt sympathies with the members of the bereaved family, the Chief Minister prayed to the Almighty to give them courage and strength to bear this irreparable loss and grant eternal peace to the departed soul.
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MAJITHIA CONDOLES THE SAD DEMISE OF HAKAM SUFI
Chandigarh, September 6,
Mr Bikram Singh Majithia Revenue and Public Relations Minister of Punjab today expressed profound grief and sorrow over the sad demise of great Punjabi singer Hakam Sufi.
In a condolence message Mr. Majithia said that melodious voice of Hakam Sufi gave new heights to the Punjabi music. He said that Hakam Sufi would be remembered as a simple hearted person, who played a vital role in promoting Punjab, Punjabi and Punjabiat in the world through his songs.
Sharing his heart-felt sympathies with the members of the bereaved family, Mr Majithia prayed to the Almighty to give them courage and strength to bear this irreparable loss and grant peace to the departed soul.
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PROVIDE SERVICE LANES ALONG WITH ALL NATIONAL AND STATE HIGHWAYS- SUKHBIR
- NO DIRECT ENTRY SHOULD BE ALLOWED TO ANY HIGHWAY
Chandigarh, September 6: The Deputy Chief Minister Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal today issued directions to Public Works Department to provide service lanes along with all National & State highways in the state.
Presiding over a meeting to review road projects in the state Mr. Badal said that provision of service lanes has to be made mandatory and we should ensure that there was no direct entry to the highways. He said that Punjab government has already chalked out a Rs.13000 crore plan to link all major cities with 4/6 lane roads and it was imperative for NHAI and PWD to maintain rigorous safety standards for these highways and avoid any direct access to the highways.
Expressing concern over high rise buildings touching national highways especially in the vicinity of Chandigarh, Patiala and Ludhiana, Mr. Badal asked PWD to ensure that all roads were planned this way that there should be a sufficient distance between building blocks and highways.
Asking PWD department to give all contracts linked with 5 year maintenance, Mr. Badal said that Punjab has to emerge as best state in the country with world class road and air connectivity and while selecting firms for avoiding road contracts we must ensure adherence to strict quality control and any compromise would not be tolerated.
Prominent amongst those who participated in the meeting included Mr. N.K. Sharma, Chief Parliamentary Secretary Industries & Commerce, Mr. S.K. Sandhu, Principal Secretary to Chief Minister & Secretary Urban Development, Mr. P.S. Aujla, Principal Secretary to Deputy Chief Minister, Mr. Manvesh Singh Sidhu & Mr. A.K. Mahajan, Special Principal Secretaries to Deputy Chief Minister.
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VIGILANCE CLEARANCE DONE AWAY FOR RETIRING EMPLOYEES
· SELF-DECLARATION BY THE EMPLOYEE WOULD BE SUFFICE
Chandigarh, September 5: The Punjab government today gave a major relief to the employees on the verge of retirement to save them from knocking at different doors for clearances to get their dues released. In a significant decision, the state government has authorized the administrative departments to issue pension/vigilance clearance certificates to their group A & B employees having drawing & disbursing powers.
Disclosing this here today a spokesman of the state government said that to simplify the procedure for issuance of pension/vigilance clearance certificates, the instructions of vigilance department have been amended. The spokesman said that the vigilance bureau would supply department wise negative list of government employees against whom any vigilance inquiry or FIR was registered to the concerned administrative departments and further update the negative list after every 15 days. Besides this, the information would also be uploaded on vigilance bureau website. The spokesman further said that every government employee requiring pension/vigilance clearance certificates would have to submit a self-declaration to the effect of his/her involvement/non-involvement in any vigilance inquiry or FIR to the best of his knowledge.
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PUNJAB GOVT. ISSUES SCHEDULE FOR FIXING SECURITY REGISTRATION NUMBER PLATES ON VEHICLES
Chandigarh, September 6
To streamline the work of fixing the security registration number plates on the vehicles, the Punjab Government issued the schedule here today for fixing the new number plates.
Giving the information about the new schedule Mr. Ajit Singh Kohar Transport minister Punjab said that security registration number plates were being fixed on the new vehicles in the entire state at the time of registration but the work of putting up of such plates on the old vehicles have been rescheduled.
He further informed that security registration number plates would be fixed on the registration number 0001 to 0500 in October 2012. Likewise number plates would be fixed on 501 to 1000 in November 2012, on 1001 to 1500 in December 2012, on 1501 to 2000 in January 2013, on 2001 to 2500 in February 2013, on 2501 to 3000 in March 2013, on 3001 to 3500 in April 2013, on 3501 to 4000 in May 2013, on 4001 to 4500 in June 2013, on 4501 to 5000 in July 2013, on 5001 to 5500 on August 2013, on 5501 to 6000 in September 2013, on 6001 to 6500 in October 2013, on 6501 to 7000 in November 2013, on 7001 7500 in December 2013, on 7501 to 8000 in January 2014, on 8001 to 8500 in February 2014, on 8501 to 9000 in March 2014, on 9001 to 9500 in April 2014 and on 9501 to 9999 May 2014.
He said that under the central Motor vehicle Rules 1989, it was pertinent to have high security number plates on the vehicles registered in Punjab. The security registration number plates to be fixed on all the vehicles in two years. He has directed the officers and firms concerned to ensure the fixing of security registration number plates on all the vehicles in fixed time.
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15170 rural inhabitations get an assured water supply
of 70 lpcd by the end of December, 2013- Valtoha
CHANDIGARH, SEPTEMBER 06:
The Punjab Government would spend Rs.1034 crore to provide potable water in 2481 villages of the state. The Government would also ensure that all the 15170 rural inhabitations get an assured water supply of 70 lpcd by the end of December, 2013. It was disclosed by Mr. Virsa Singh Valtoha, Chief Parliament Secretary, Rural Water Supply and Sanitation.
He said that the Punjab Government has chalked out a comprehensive plan for the current year 2012-13 to provide clean and safe drinking water to the villages. He said that under this scheme 600 villages would be covered and 70 liters water per person per day would be supplied. He said that water meter would also be installed, which would check illegal connection and wastage of water. He said that water bills would range from Rs.70 to 100 per month. Mr. Valtoha said that it would be strictly ensured that the presence of uranium and heavy metals in the drinking water should not exceed than the set parameters.
Mr. Valtoha said that in some of the rural areas of the state water supply schemes didn't work and the set targets have not achieved. He appealed the local leaders to bring such cases into his notice so that water supply scheme could be implemented in true spirit. He said that all the District Officers of the Department have been asked to send the status reports of the water supply schemes in 10 days.
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GOVERNMENT TO SET UP CRECHES FOR THE CHILDREN OF WOMEN INMATES
· 6 JAMMERS INSTALLED IN HIGH SECURITY NABHA JAIL
Chandigarh September 6:
With a view to providing better care facilities to the infants and below 6 children of women prisoners who were facing various criminal cases, the Punjab government would set up crèches inside the jails.
Stating this here today after visiting the Central Jail Patiala where such crèche is already functional for more than 100 women prisoners, Mr. Sarwan Singh Phillaur, Jail Minister Punjab said that the government was in touch with NGOs and working out the modalities to set up child care units in half a dozen jails on the pattern of Patiala Jail. The Minister also directed the officers of the department to initiate the pre-release cases of the prisoners on priority and the entitled prisoners should not be kept in waiting while allowing them to be released on parole. Taking a sympathetic view, the minister said that all those prisoners with good conduct would be transferred to their home towns at the earliest.
Mr. Phillaur also visited the soap and detergent making units set up on trial basis in the Patiala jail. In order to rehabilitate the inmates by imparting training for the skilled and semi-skilled jobs in various trades, the Punjab government would formulate an extensive plan to set up small and viable units like paper making, tailoring, weaving, chemical units, bakery and leather units so that on their release the prisoners could earn their livelihood outside in a dignified manner, said Mr. Phillaur.
Referring to adequate safety measures taken up in Punjab jails, the minister reiterated that CCTVs have been installed in 7 Central Jails and 6 District Jails to monitor jail premises and movement of prisoners. The Government would install such cameras in the rest of jails and upgrade the existing CCtv system by installing CCtv cameras at all security towers including Central towers and other sensitive places to monitor the movements of prisoners. With the installation of 6 jammers in the high security jail Nabha, the usage of mobiles would be totally stopped, said the Minister. More such jammers would be installed within this week in the central Jail Sangrur, he added. The Minister has also directed the senior officers to conduct surprise checks ensure complete computerisation of records in Punjab prisons and to check the escape of under trial prisoners while taking them to the courts, the Minister said that to overcome this problem of production of under trial prisoners for extension of their judicial remand, Video conferencing equipment have been installed and video conferencing has been made operational in 10 Jails and 32 Courts at the cost of Rs.1.48 crores. In phase-2, Video Conferencing would be introduced in 16 Jails and 24 Courts at Cost of Rs. 2.23 Crores. This step would ensure the production of under trial prisoners in Courts through Video linkage and would result in expeditious disposal of the cases of under trial prisoners and would prevent infiltration/smuggling of contraband substances being brought by prisoners while coming back from Court production in the jails.
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Five new ‘Mother and Child hospitals’ in the state of Punjab
Chandigarh September 6: Sh. Madan Mohan Mittal, Health & Family Welfare Minister, Punjab stated that in order to provide specialized health care, particularly obstetric care and paediatric care, the Punjab Health Department is all set to begin construction of modern Mother and Child Hospitals during the current Financial Year and these shall be made operational within 15 months time. The Mother and Child Hospital is a specialized facility for providing high quality healthcare services to women and children. Mother and Child care at these specialized hospitals will be of high professional standard and will come fully equipped with all diagnostic and clinical facilities.
He added that the proposal of the Punjab Government for providing these state-of-the-art facilities at five Mother and Child Hospitals costing a total of Rs.69.00 Crore has been accepted by the Government of India under the National Rural Health Mission programme. He revealed that Mata Kaushalaya Hospital, Patiala will be given an additional bed capacity of 100 beds at a cost of Rs 18.00 Crores, additional 73 bed capacity will be created at Civil Hospital at Amritsar at a cost of Rs 11.00 Crore, additional bed capacity of 50 beds at Civil Hospital, Bathinda and Jalandhar at a cost Rs 10.00 Crores, each. Civil Hospital Ludhiana will be upgraded with additional 100 bed capacity at a cost of 69.00 Crores.
S.No. |
Name of the District Hospital |
Additional bed capacity being created |
Amount
(Rs. Crores) |
1 |
MKH Patiala |
100 |
18.00 |
2 |
CH Amritsar |
73 |
11.00 |
3 |
CH Bathinda |
50 |
10.00 |
4 |
CH Jalandhar |
50 |
10.00 |
5 |
CH Ludhiana |
100 |
20.00 |
|
Total |
|
69.00 |
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MAJITHIA CALLS ON SHIVRAJ PATIL FOR EXPANSION OF RENEWAL ENERGY PROJECTS IN PUNJAB
- PUNJAB SHOULD COME OUT WITH A COMPREHENSIVE RENEWAL ENERGY PLAN: PATIL
- 400 MW POWER WOULD BE GENERATED ONLY THROUGH SOLAR ENERGY
CHANDIGARH, SEPTEMBER 5: Mr. Bikram Singh Majithia, Non Conventional Energy Minister, today called on Governor Punjab Mr. Shivraj V Patil for the expansion of Non Conventional Energy projects in the state besides expediting the process of renewal energy projects with Union Ministry for New and Renewable Energy.
Elaborating the details of ongoing renewal energy projects in the state and utilization of already completed projects, Mr. Majithia sought cooperation from the Governor as he had headed the Union Ministry for New and Renewable Energy for more than 4 years. The Minister said that the vast experience of Mr. Patil in this field could give a big boost to the non conventional energy projects in Punjab.
Mr. Majithia apprised the Governor that Punjab has fixed a target to generate 400 MW power only through the solar resources out of total target of 1000 MW through renewal energy. He said that Punjab has also started installing solar energy projects on the rooftops of public buildings, schools, colleges, hospitals, courts as the land was more costly in the state as compared to Rajasthan and Gujarat. Mr. Majithia said that Punjab figures in C category for providing energy through solar rays while Gujarat and Rajasthan figure in A category.
The Minister also informed the Governor about the ongoing renewal energy projects of total 921 KW including 50 kw at Mini Secretariat, 100 kw at Punjab Agriculture University, 100 kw at Pushpa Gujral Science City and 200 kw at Khatkar Kalan etc.
Lauding the initiatives of Punjab Government in the field of Non Conventional Energy, the Governor Mr. Patil said that by promoting solar energy generation, the states could reduce the pressure on traditional energy resources. Mr. Patil also asked the Punjab Government to prepare a special comprehensive solar energy plan for the expansion of non conventional energy projects in the state. The Governor also suggested the state government to install solar energy projects on the rooftops of all public offices including offices and residences of CM and all Ministers, Secretaries, DCs, SSPs, religious places, educational institutions, hospitals, hostels etc to set-up an example for power generation through solar energy. He also asked the Punjab Government to provide special incentives for setting-up of solar energy project by householders, shopkeepers and business institutions at their own.
Prominent amongst those were present on the occasion included Principal Secretary to Governor Mr. MP Singh, Mr. Karan Avtar Singh, Principal Secretary, Non Conventional Energy, Punjab.
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Akalis will not be able to win a single seat in parliament: Capt Amarinder
SANGRUR, September 5: Punjab Pradesh Congress Committee President Capt Amarinder Singh today said that the Akali-BJP alliance will not be able to win a single seat in the coming parliamentary elections in the state. “Given their all round failure, I doubt whether they will even be able to save their security deposits”, he remarked.
Talking to reporters at the residence of Dhuri MLA and PCC General Secretary, Arvind Khanna, here today, Capt Amarinder said that there was widespread disillusionment and alienation among the people and they will teach the alliance a lesson in the coming parliamentary elections.
The PCC President had a stopover for about an hour at the residence of Mr Khanna where he was accorded a rousing reception. He met hundreds of party workers before embarking on further journey to Rampura Phull in Bathinda district.
He was accompanied by the Congress Legislative Party leader Sunil Jakhar, Barnala MLA and PCC vice president Kewal Dhillon, PCC general secretary Fateh Jang Singh Bajwa, former minister Chiranji Lal Garg and several other senior party leaders.
The former Chief Minister stated that even if the elections were held right now they will not be able to win a single seat and by the year 2014 they may not be even able to save their security deposits. Explaining the reasons he said, they had miserably failed in delivering on the promises and as if that was not enough they have resorted to punitive taxation now. He said, the state was likely to impose Rs 9000 crores of taxes and the brunt will be borne by the common and poor people of the state.
Replying to a question over Sanjha Morcha’s refusal to join the Congress sponsored protests against the taxes on September 7, Capt Amarinder said, the morcha had actually not refused the support but had said that they had short time to join the protests.
He clarified that it was just a beginning and moreover it was not aimed at any political alliance or understanding but just one point agenda of opposing the government’s punitive taxation. He pointed out, Sanjha Morcha had agreed with the Congress to oppose the taxes as they were also staging protests against the taxes on September 21.
To another question about the activities of some rebels, the PCC President reiterated that he had not recommended any action against anyone and he had invited all the party men to join the protests. He said, he believed in taking along everybody and he was doing the same even now.
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BADAL ATTACKS PROPOSED PETROLEUM, DIESEL, LPG PRICE HIKE
WOULD BREAK THE BACK OF PEASANTRY, COMMON MAN
CHANDIGARH SEPTEMBER 05:
Shiromani Akali Dal Patron and Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today slammed the Congress led UPA government at Center for the proposed major hike in the prices of Petrol, Diesel and LPG and said that the hike would be ‘totally unjustified and anti-people’. He said that it was strange and cruel that the government was contemplating the proposed hike at a time when the prices of essential commodities were already sky high adding that this hike would further enhance the inflationary trends much to the dismay of common man.
In a statement here, Mr. Badal cautioned the Center against such anti-people decisions when the common man (Aam Aadmi) was already reeling under the unbearable burden of inflation. He said that the proposed hike of Rs.4-5 in petrol price, Rs.3-4 in diesel and Rs.50 per cylinder of LPG would further add to the woes of the people. This he said would especially hurt the farmers and making housewives unhappy by disturbing their kitchen budget. The Chief Minister said that this proposed decision to hike the prices of diesel would be a fatal blow to the agriculture sector as the farming was no longer a profitable venture due to the massive hike in agricultural inputs. He said the hike in the prices of diesel would further enhance the cost of agriculture inputs making the life of beleaguered farmers miserable. He said that the un-remunerative MSP coupled with high cost of agriculture inputs could further jeopardize the country’s food security.
The Chief Minister termed the proposed hike as “a typical gift” of this anti-people UPA government to the countrymen in the coming festive season. He said that this hike in the prices of petrol and diesel would also adversely hit the transport sector in the country thereby resulting in the corresponding price rise of essential commodities and other materials thereby indicting the common man.
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BADAL FOR DELIBERATIONS WITH LOCAL FARMERS BEFORE FINALIZATION OF IRRIGATION SCHEMES IN KANDI AREA
ASKS PRINCIPAL SECRETARY IRRIGATION TO LEAD A TEAM OF ENGINEERS FOR ON THE SPOT ASSESSMENT OF IRRIGATION POTENTIAL
CHANDIGARH SEPTEMBER 05:
Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today reviewed the progress of various irrigation projects in the Kandi area especially the kandi canal stage-II and asked the Principal Secretary Irrigation to lead a team of engineers, officers of soil conservation and agriculture department to interact with the local farmers for incorporating their inputs before chalking out a comprehensive time bound action program to ensure irrigation facilities in the region.
Presiding over a meeting with the senior officers of the Irrigation department here at CMO this morning, Mr. Badal asked the Principal Secretary Irrigation to submit the detailed report with his recommendations in this regard to him within a week so that the entire irrigation projects proposed to be set up in kandi area could be taken up in a holistic manner. He emphasized the need to take into confidence the farmers of the area prior to the finalization of the various irrigation schemes in kandi area so that the local residents especially the farmers could be duly benefited. He was apprised by the Chief Engineer Kandi Canal that project of rehabilitation of water courses of kandi canal stage-I having a length of 450 Kms amounting to Rs.43.84 crore has been prepared out of which Rs.10.50 crore were to be provided under ACA and balance Rs.33.34 crore by NABARD.
Regarding the main hindrance in completing the kandi canal-II project and construction of low dams owing to delay in forest clearances, Mr. Badal asked the Principal Secretary Irrigation to amicably settle the issue with the forest department to ensure the timely completion of these project. Mr. Badal was of the firm view that all the irrigation projects to be executed in the Kandi area should be developed and implemented keeping in view the needs of the local residents particular the farmers who were facing acute problems due to scant irrigation facilities in this rain deficit belt.
The Chief Engineer Kandi Canal also informed the Chief Minister that out of 29 low dams in the kandi area, 12 have been completed and 9 were proposed to be taken up in a phased manner and remaining 8 dams would be taken up in the later stage after the completion of 9 dams. He said the detailed project proposal amount to Rs.28.38 crore had already been submitted to GoI under Dam Rehabilitation & Improvement Project for which 100% loan was available from World Band. He also mentioned Rs.31 crore project of irrigation distributary system by providing underground pipe lines of 5 dams namely; Dholbaha, Damsal, Janauri, Maili and Chohal in district Hoshiarpur was being funded by NABARD and would be taken up in 2012.
It was also informed in the meeting that 68 deep tubewells had already been installed in various parts of the kandi area but could not be made operational due to non-energization by the Punjab State Power Corporation Ltd. (PSPCL). Mr. Badal asked the CMD PSPCL to immediately release power connections for the energization of these tubewells so that the farmers could reap the benefits of this facility. Mr. Badal also asked the MD of Punjab Water Resources Management & Development Corporation Limited to accomplish its allotted targets to install such more tubewells for providing enormous irrigation potential in the region in a time bound manner.
Prominent amongst others who attended the meeting included Chairman Markfed Jarnail Singh Wahid, Principal Secretary Irrigation KBS Sidhu, Special Principal Secretary to Chief Minister Gaggandip Singh Brar, Deputy Commissioner Hoshiarpur Dipinder Singh, MD Milkfed Balwinder Singh Sidhu, MD Punjab Water Resources Management & Development Corporation Limited DK Nijawan, Chief Engineer Kandi Canal Harvinder Singh and Chief Engineer Canals Vinod Chaudhary.
…
PUNJAB TO DEVELOP AAM KHAS BAGH AT FATEHGARH AS STATE-OF-THE-ART MUGHAL HERITAGE MONUMENT
CHANDIGARH SEPTEMBER 5:
The Punjab Government would develop ‘Aam Khas Bagh’ at Fatehgarh as a state-of-the-art tourism destination Mughal Heritage monument.
A decision to this effect was taken by the Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal during a meeting with the senior officers of the Tourism and Cultural Affairs department here today. The Chief Minister also approved to constitute a committee for preparing a detailed plan for this project.
Taking part in the deliberations Mr. Badal said that he had personally visited this place of great historic significance, where the Royal couples used to stay while going to and coming back from Lahor during Mughal’s period. This Royal inn that was initially built by Babur and rebuilt by Mughal emperor Shah Jahan in the middle of Delhi and Lahore along the Grand Trunk road, could be adopted as World Heritage site as it has a great potential to attract tourists from within and outside of the country, added Mr. Badal.
The Chief Minister further instructed the concerned department to undertake the renovation work in such a manner that original texture and paintings on the walls and the roofs, depicting Mughal architectural proficiency could be preserved in their original form. He further asked the Chief Secretary to implement this entire project under his personal guidance and supervision.
Prominent amongst those who were present in the meeting included, Tourism, Cultural Affairs Mr. Sarwan Singh Phillaur, Advisor to CM Mr. Mahesh Singh Grewal, Chief Secretary Mr. Rakesh Singh, Principal Secretary to CM, Mr. SK Sandhu, Principal Secretary Tourism Mrs. Geetika Kalha, Special Principal Secretaries to CM, Mr. KJS Cheema and Mr. Gurkirat Kirpal Singh, Secretary Expenditure Mr. Dalip Kumar, Director Cultural Affairs Dr. KS Sra, Director Hospitality Mr. NS Brar and Deputy Commissioner Mr. Yashvir Mahajan.
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PUNJAB RECONSTITUTES BET AREA ADVISORY COUNCIL
- CM WOULD BE THE CHAIRMAN, DY CM INDUCTED AS MEMBER
CHANDIGARH, SEPTEMBER 5:
The Punjab Government has reconstituted Punjab State Bet Area Advisory Council for the overall development of the area. Mr. Parkash Singh Badal, Chief Minister, Punjab would be chairman of this council, whereas Deputy Chief Minister, MPs, MLAs and Principal Secretaries of different departments have been inducted as members in this council. It is worth mentioning that some days ago, Punjab has reconstituted Kandi Area Advisory Council.
Disclosing this here today, an official spokesman said that apart from Deputy Chief Minister, the other official members of these council included Revenue Minister, Finance Minister, Chief Secretary, Financial Commissioner, Development, Financial Commissioner, Forest and Wild Life, Principal Secretary, Finance, Principal Secretary, Industries and Commerce, Principal Secretary, Irrigation, Principal Secretary, Planning, Secretary, Power, Secretary, School Education, Secretary, PWD B&R, Secretary, Water Supply and Sanitation, Chairman cum MD, Punjab State Transmission Corporation Limited, Chairman cum MD, Punjab State Power Corporation Limited and Deputy Commissioners of Amritsar, Gurdaspur, Ferozpur, Fazilka, Hoshiarpur, Jalandhar, Kapurthala, Ludhiana, Moga, Mansa, Patial, Roop Nagar, SAS Nagar, SBS Nagar and Tarn Taran.
Elaborating the functioning of this council, the spokesman said that this council would define the Bet area of the state besides, to aid and advice the government in drawing up schemes and programmes for the development of area. He said that this council would undertake the area planning of these areas in order to ensure integrated and all round development of this area, to fix priorities of various development works to be executed in these areas, to co-ordinate and review the activities of various departments with a view to remove the bottlenecks in the speedy implementation of programmes, to take effective steps for spreading literacy in these areas and to devise measures to raise the standard of living of the backward section, landless labourers and agricultural works in these area.
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PUNJAB TO PROVIDE 1 LAKH SKILED WORKERS TO THE STATE'S INDUSTRY ANNUALLY: JOSHI
CHANDIGARH, SEPTEMBER 5:
Mr. Anil Joshi, Industry and Commerce Minister, Punjab today said that the state government would provide at least 1 lakh skilled workers to the industry of Punjab. He said that as per the MoU signed with a German based company 1 lakh trainee students from 50 ITIs would be trained in 4 Multi Skill Development Centers.
Disclosing this here today Mr. Joshi said that the industry in Punjab would not have to suffer on breakdown of foreign made machines since the company of German would impart needful and complete training to the students at four hi-tech Multi Skill Development Centers. He said that Punjab Government is setting-up multi skill development centers at Amritsar, Hoshiarpur, Bathinda and Ludhiana and the students from these centers would also get practical training in German.
Mr. Joshi said that the SAD-BJP Government was committed to promote technical education in the state to secure new job avenues in the state besides encouraging youngsters towards techincal education.
The Minister informed that in these 4 modern skill development centers aspirants having qualification up to 8th class would also get the training through three, six months and one year course.
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PUNJAB MAY CROSS 1 LAKH TONNES OF FISH PRODUCTION IN 2012-13: RANIKE
- BECOMES NO. 1 STATE BY PRODUCING 6560 KILOGRAM FISH PER HECTARE
CHANDIGARH, SEPTEMBER 5: The Punjab may register over 1 lakh tonnes of fish production during the current season of 2012-13, which would be more than 8,000 tonnes from the fixed target of 93,000 tonnes.
Disclosing this here today, Mr. Gulzar Singh Ranike, minister for Animal Husbandry, Fish Farming and Dairy Development said that as per the estimated production, the state may cross 1 lakh tonnes of fish production, which would be a record production in the country. He said that it would be the result of facilities and incentives extended to the fish farmers by the SAD-BJP Government.
Divulging the details regarding fish farming, Mr. Ranike said that there were more than 65000 people, who were earning their livelihood directly or indirectly through the profession of fish farming. He said that by producing 6560 kilograms of fish per acre, Punjab has become no. 1 state in fish farming besides playing a significant role in diversification.
Mr. Ranike said that Punjab Government has reserved Rs. 10 crore for the development of fish farming in the state, which would be spent on the modernization and maintenance of village ponds besides providing variety of fishes to the farmers on subsidized rates. He also said that Punjab Government has also chalked out a strategy to construct new ponds especially for fish farming at Bathinda, Ferozepur, Faridkot, Sri Muktsar Sahib and Moga.
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CAPTAIN NOW A LAUGHING STOCK EVEN WITHIN THE CONGRESS: MALUKA
EX-CM’S PUNJAB TOUR HIS SWAN SONG
CHANDIGARH SEPTEMBER 5 –
The Punjab Education Minister Mr. Sikandr Singh Maluka today asked Captain Amarinder Singh to stop indulging in wishful thinking on the durability of the SAD-BJP government and said that the PPCC chief was indulging in mid-day reveries about his return to center-stage politics in Punjab .
Describing Captain Singh’s so-called Punjab tour as “ his swan song “ , Mr. Maluka said that this was like the proverbial fluttering of the flame before the final snuff-out.” The minister further said that Captain had become a laughing stock within his own party, and nobody even in the Congress took his bluster seriously and even his erstwhile protégés like Sukhpal Singh Khehra openly mocked his statements now. Everyone is laughing at his pitiable conduct and Captain Sahib finds it hard to stomach this humiliating plight . His false bravado against the SAD was like a frightened man’s whistling in the dark
Mr. Maluka was reacting to Captain Singh’s statement that the SAD-BJP government should not take its five year tenure for granted. “ Captain Singh should now retire peacefully instead of making a sorry spectacle of himself with inane statement statements like these. Like any other senile and dethroned monarch, he is mumbling in half sleep and his plight has become pitiable indeed. .
“Captain Amarinder Singh knows that he is on his last leg and there is no chance of his surviving for the next five years even within the Congress. Therefore, he is indulging in day dreaming about an exit of the SAD-BJP government before its full five year term. But someone should go and remind him of the famous Punjabi saying that “kaavaan de kahe dhagge nahin marde.”
The education minister told Captain Singh that it was had for him to retain even his present position within the PPCC. He was dreaming of a return to power before these elctions. But shock and trauma of defeat have clearly affected his mental equilibrium. But , said the minister his typical chaste Malwa Punjabi feast, that Captain would do well to remember “Ke Puttar sara pind mar jaaye, par tu lambardar nahin banada.” (You won’t be the village chief even if the whole village dies.” )
Mr. Maluka said that it was pathetic to see the stuffed figure of the ex- Maharaja buffeting on the streets of the state and licking dust on the roads. “Is it the same man who would not stir out of his air conditioned suites even to meet his own senior party leaders in cabinet colleagues. ? His frustration shows through in his desperate statements bordering on mental delirium,” said Mr. Sikandar Singh Maluka. His party should look after his health, said mr. maluka.
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PB GOVT TO DEVELOP KANDI AREA AS 'HUB OF FOOD PROCESSING INDUSTRY': THANDAL
- RS.46 CRORE RELEASE FOR STRENGTHENING THE DHUSSI DAM
- KANDI AREA ADVISORY COUNCIL RECONSTITUTED WITH CM AS ITS CHAIRMAN
CHANDIGRAH, SEPTEMBER 4:
The Kandi area of the state will soon don a modern look as the Punjab Government has approved a comprehensive plan for the overall development of this region. The Punjab Government has decided to develop this area as a 'hub of food processing industry'. The Kandi Area Advisory Council has also been reconstituted with Chief Minister as its chairman. This council has fixed a timeline for the overall development of this backward area. It was disclosed by Chief Parliamentary Secretary Mr. Sohan Singh Thandal in a statement to the press, here today.
He said that the discriminatory policies of the successive Congress governments in the state were responsible for creating regional imbalances in Punjab as the Kandi area of the state has lagged far behind than the other areas in the terms of overall development and prosperity. He said that considering the long pending demand of the natives of Kandi area the state government has reconstituted the Kandi Area Advisory Council with Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal as its Chairman and Deputy Chief Minister Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal as Member.
He said that realizing education, as the most important aspect for development of this backward region, the Punjab government had already laid special emphasis to impart quality education to the students of Kandi area.
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.
While describing the irrigation facilities being provided by the state, the CPS said the government has adopted a far reaching approach to strengthen the rivers’ embankments. He said that in order to strengthen the Dhussi Dam on river Beas the work is in progress and the state government has already released Rs.46 crore to the irrigation department for this task.
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CM APPROVES TO RELEASE RS. 55 CRORE FOR ONGOING WORKS UNDER HEALTH CORE PLAN
APPROVES RS. 5 CRORE FOR CHC AT KAMAHI DEVI
CHANDIGARH SEPTEMBER 4:
The Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today approved the releasing of Rs. 55 crore for ongoing works under the health core-plan of Rs. 350 crore for the up-gradation of existing health institutions and the construction of new health institutions to improve the health care services in the state.
A decision to this effect was taken by Mr. Badal today during a high level meeting held here at Chief Minister’s office with the top brass of the state. It was informed in the meeting that Rs. 162.93 crore which were released by the state government under this prestigious health program had already been exhausted over the construction of 30 Community Health Centres (CHCs), 2 District Hospitals, 7 Sub-Divisional Hospitals, 36 Primary Health Centres (PHCs), besides supplying health equipment in various health institutions and there was an immediate need of more funds for the timely complication of these works.
Taking part in the deliberations the Chief Minister said that for the fulfillment of its commitment to provide world-class health infrastructure and health care facilities for the people of Punjab, the SAD-BJP government would left no stone unturned. Emphasizing the need to improve the health care facilities in the Kandi area, Mr. Badal asked the senior officers of the Health department to chalk out a comprehensive plane in this regard. He also approved a plan of Rs. 5 crore for the construction of new Community Health Centre (CHC) at Kamahi Devi.
Showing concern over the dilapidated condition of the old building of the hospital at Nabha, the Health and Family Welfare Minister Mr. Madan Mohan Mittal mooted a proposal for the construction of a new Hospital at Nabha and up-gradation of Civil Hospital Ludhiana by enhancing its capacity from 170 beds to 400 beds under the health core plan. Approving the proposal, Mr. Badal asked the health department to prepare a detailed plan along with the requirement and the availability of the land.
Prominent amongst those who were present in the meeting included, Health and Family Welfare Minister Mr. Madan Mohan Mittal, Principal Secretary to CM, Mr. SK Sandhu, Principal Secretary Health Mrs. Vinni Mahajan, Principal Secretary Finance Mr. Satish Chandra, Special Principal Secretary to CM, Mr. Gurkirat Kirpal Singh, CA GAMADA Mr. AK Sinha, CA PUDA Mr. Manvesh Singh Sidhu and MD PHSC Mr. Raji P. Srivastava.
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BADAL SEEKS IMMEDIATE INTERVENTION OF MODI AND GADKARI TO RESOLVE THE ISSUE OF PUNJABI FARMERS IN GUJARAT
PUNJABI FARMERS HAD PLAYED A KEY ROLE IN THE PROGRESS OF GUJARAT - CM
CHANDIGARH SEPTEMBER 4:
Punjab Chief Minister Mr Parkash Singh Badal today sought the immediate intervention of his Gujarat counterpart Mr Narendra Modi and National President of BJP Mr Nitin Gadkari, to sort out the issue of legitimate ownership right of the Punjabi farmers over the agriculture land being ploughed by them from last more than three decades.
In separate letters to the Gujarat Chief Minister and the National BJP President, Mr Badal said that the orders of collector of Kuchh to freeze more than 1000 "Khedut Khatas" (Agricultural accounts) of the Punjabi farmers was a complete injustice with these people who had developed this barren land into fertile one with their hard labour. The Chief Minister said that he was peeved to learn that though a Division Bench of the Hon'ble Gujarat High Court headed by acting Chief Justice had already given a ruling in the favour of these farmers but now the Gujarat government has filed an appeal in the Hon'ble Supreme Court challenging the decision of the High Court.
Mr Badal further said that it was totally unfair as Gujarat was a homeland for these Punjabi farmers who had been practicising agriculture in state from past three decades and thus played a pivotal role in the progress of the state. Urging Mr Modi and Mr Gadkari to have a sympathetic view on this matter, the Chief Minister said that if the matter is resolved amicably then insufferable misery and distress to these farmers could be avoided.
It may be recalled that a 17-member delegation of Punjabi farmers from Bhuj and Kutch (Gujarat) led by Spokesperson of SAD Mr Balwant Singh Ramoowalia had called on the Chief Minister on September 3, to apprise him that Gujrat Government was uprooting them under the Bombay Tenancy and Agricultural Lands (Vidarbha Region) Act. The farmers had urged Mr Badal to take up the issue with the Gujarat government so that their displacement could be avoided. Reiterating the commitment of the state government towards the welfare of the farmers in general and especially the farmers belonging to Punjab and settled in other parts of the country, the Chief Minister had assured them that he would take up this matter with Mr Modi and the BJP high command.
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CM REVIEWS PROGRESS OF PUNJAB GREEN MISSION
RS. 67 CRORE GENERATED FOR DEDICATED FUND UNDER PROGRAM
CHANDIGARH SEPTEMBER 04:
Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today finalized the modalities of ‘greening mission fund’ especially created to enhance the area under forest cover from 7% to 15% by undertaking massive plantation drive across the state and sought firm commitment of Rs.67 crore to fund this prestigious program.
Presiding over the meeting of senior officers of the Punjab government besides the Chief Administrators of the development authorities of GMADA, PUDA, GLADA, BDA, PDA, ADA, Mr. Badal asked them to mobilize resources for generation of funds under green mission program.
It may be recalled that Punjab is the first state in the country to launch this unique project of aforestation and set up a dedicated fund under ‘greening Punjab mission’ to garner financial support from the government departments, boards and corporations by way of contribution towards the fund to make this unprecedented project financially viable and self sustainable.
Taking part in the deliberations, the Principal Secretary Finance Mr. Satish Chandra apprised the Chief Minister that NABARD had already sanctioned a loan of Rs.30 crore for the current fiscal for this program.
While updating the Chief Minister about the progress of the project of greening Punjab, Financial Commissioner Forests Mr. DS Bains said that Rs.1926 crore was required for the plantation of 40 crore trees over next 8 years. He said that annual expenditure on this program nearly comes to be Rs.240 crore, of which Rs.80 crore was likely to be funded from the State Plan Schemes/State Compensatory Aforestation Fund of the forests department and therefore, resulting in a net deficit of Rs.160 crore every year. He said that a sum of Rs.130 crore was available during 2012-13 which was being spent on enhancing the capacity of the nurseries, setting up new nurseries besides training and capacity of the staff. Mr. Bains agreed to undertake plantation of trees in the mandi yards, focal points and the urban estates developed by the various authorities through the forest department and asked the concerned officers to provide the list of vacant land location wise.
Mr. Badal asked the Chief Secretary to work out the ways and means for the maintenance and upkeep of plants under the program by appointing nodal officers at block level to monitor the progress of these plants with the concerned forest officials. Showing prime concern for the nurturing of these plants, Mr. Badal emphasized the need to motivate the forest guards in such a manner that they should ensure the growth of these trees with utmost care and sincerity. Mr. Badal said; “The aspect of nurturing plants in the early stage of growth is of paramount importance and should be given top priority otherwise it would be a sheer wastage of resources”.
On the persuasion of the Chief Minister, the GMADA, PUDA, PPCB, PIDB, PSIES and Technical Education voluntarily offered Rs.5 crore each to fund this project besides Rs.3 crore was contributed by BDA, Rs.2 crore by Mandi Board and Rs.1 crore each by PDA and Markfed, totaled to Rs.37 crore. Mr. Badal asked the concerned officers to deposit the money in the ‘greening Punjab fund, positively within a week.
Prominent amongst others who were present on the occasion included Forests Minister Mr. Surjit Kumar Jiyani, Chief Parliamentary Secretary Forests Ch. Nand Lal, Chief Secretary Mr. Rakesh Singh, Financial Commissioner Revenue Mr. NS Kang, Principal Chief Conservator of Forests Mr. HS Gujral and Special Principal Secretary to Chief Minister Mr. KJS Cheema.
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PUNJAB CM GREETS ON THE TEACHERS DAY
CHANDIGARH SEPTEMBER 4:
Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today extended his warm greetings to the teaching fraternity on the occasion of Teacher's Day and urged them to make all out efforts to infuse the noble qualities of discipline, righteousness, truthfulness, sense of integrity, high character and dedication amongst the students besides imparting them value-based education to enable them to become an ideal citizens of the society.
In the message on the occasion of teacher's day, this coincides with the Birth Anniversary of former President of India late Dr. Sarvpalli Radha Krishnan and an eminent academician, statesman and a great philosopher whose contribution in various fields especially in restructuring the education system was unparalleled and unprecedented. Mr. Badal said that after the mother, it is the teacher who leaves an indelible impression on the mind of a child that could never be wiped out with the passage of time. Mr. Badal also impressed upon the teachers to rise to the occasion to prepare the present and future generations to enable them to successfully face the challenges emerging in the present globalized society.
Mr. Badal assured the teachers that the State Government was making concerted efforts to create a congenial atmosphere to enable them to discharge their duties efficiently manner. He also appealed the members of the society to pay due regards and recognition to the teachers as they perform a sagacious duty in shaping the destiny of our posterity.
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College name changed
Chandigarh September 4:
The Education Minister Punjab has changed the name of Government College for women to Government college for girls Ludhiana.
Disclosing this here today spokesman of the education department said that the college authority has requested to the Education Minister Punjab during prize distribution function held at the college on 27.7.2012. He said that education minister has accepted the proposal of college authorities and changed the name of college.
NoPR/12-688
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State award for 36 teachers on teachers day
Chandigarh, September 4:
Punjab government has released list of 36 educationist’s right from elementary to principal who would be presented state awards on teachers’ day for their significant contribution in the field of promotion of education in the state.
According to a spokesman of education department these teachers would be felicitated at a state level function being organized at Jeet palace Bhatinda tomorrow i.e.5th September. Education Minister Punjab Mr. Sikander Singh Maluka would preside over the function while Mr. Inderbir Singh Bolaria chief parliamentary secretary (education) would be the guest of honor.
The list of selected teachers included: Mr. Tota Singh, Principal, Govt. Multipurpose Sr. Secondary School, Patiala, Mr Sukvir Singh principal, Govt. sr.sec. School, Fazilka, Sh.Budh Ram,Headmaster,Gov.high school,Benra(Sangrur), Mr.Gian Singh. headmaster, govt.high school Khuian Server (Patiala),
Mr. Roshan Lal khera lecturer physical education govt.sr.school.Khera Dona (kapurthata), Smt.Sarndeep kaur lecturer, phy. edu. Bohan(Hoshiarpur), Mr Parmjeet Singh Kalsi Ahliwal (Gurdaspur), Smt. Harmesh Kaur Lec. Punjabi, Bias (Asr.), Smt. Jaswinder Kaur Lec. Bio Sheed-E-Azam Thapar Sr.Secendory School, Bharat Nagar Chowk Ludhiana, Mr. Kapur Singh Lec. Bio Jangal (Pathankot), Mr. Parvinder Singh Lec. Math Abohar, Suchha Singh Lec. English, Gidderwindi, Ludhiana, Mr. Avtar Singh Vocational Master Bassi Pathana Fathegarh Sahib.
10 Master/Mistress High and Sr. Secondary Schools
Mr. Jagroop Singh DPE Ludhiana. Mr. Nazar Singh DPE Manak Majra, Ludhiana, Kumari Math Mistress Maluka (Bathianda), Mr. Kuldhi Singh Math, Sidhu Pur Fathegarh Sahib, Harish Chander, Punjabi, Das Griyn Roopnagar, Foreign Chand, Science, Das Griyn Roopnagar, Tarsem Masih Science Bhubli (Gurdaspur), Randhir Singh Art & Craft Marori Kalan Roopnagar, Darshan Singh Tibba Art & Craft Bhaddal wad Barnala, Smt, Harpreet Kaur S S Dhuri, Sangrur,
4 Master Mistress Cadre (Middle School)
Smt. Meen Kumari PTI Ferozpur, Prem Singh, Science Kotla (Sangrur), Mr. Mehar Singh, Punjabi Bhaddal Bhua, Fathegarh Sahib, Ranjit Singh Punjabi Bakshiwal Patiala,
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2 Primary Head Teachers (Elementary)
Mr. Lakhvir Singh Block Majri ( Ajit Garh Mohali) and Bihari Lal , Anandpur Sahib (Roopnagar)
7 ETT Teachers
Mr. Jaswinder Singh, Noorpur Bedi Roopnagar, Karnail Singh Sahandara (Shaheed Bhagat Singh Nagar) Daljit Singh Mehmadwala Block Mehelpur (Hoshiarpur), Narinder Singh Jadiali Block-1, Ludhiana, Harpreet Singh Behlan Barnala, Sukhraj Singh Chelanwali Block Jhunir-1 Mansa and Karnail Singh Mugowal, Hoshiarpur,
EDUCTION MINISTER GREETS ON THE TEACHERS’ DAY
CHANDIGARH, SEPTMBER 4:
Education Minister Punjab Mr. Sikander Singh Maluka today extended his warm greetings to the teaching fraternity on the occasion of Teacher’s Day and urged them to make all out efforts to infuse the noble qualities of discipline, righteousness, truthfulness, sense of integrity, high character and dedication amongst the students.
Expressing this in the message on the occasion of Teacher's Day, that coincides with the birth anniversary of former President of India late Dr. Sarvpali Radha Krishnan and an eminent academician, Statesman a and a great Philosopher, he said that Dr. Radha Krishnan’s contribution in various fields especially in restructuring the education system was unparalleled and unprecedented.
Describing the teachers as guardians of principals, moral values and socio-economic culture, he said that teachers could play an important role of supportive friends, guides and counselors for the students besides imparting value based education to enable them to become ideal citizens of the society. He appealed to the teachers to be devoted to their work, embrace innovation and serve as exemplary models for their students. He also called on authorities at all levels to give more support to education, safeguard teachers interest and upgrade the training for teachers, especially those in the rural areas.
Mr. Maluka assured the teachers that the State Government was making concerted efforts to create a congenial atmosphere to enable them to discharge their duties efficiently manner. In his message, the Minister also said that teachers shouldered the important responsibility of grooming the country's future generations, and called on parents and guardians to support teachers in their efforts to instill good moral values and behaviors by recognizing their role in the process of Nation building.
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ROTATIONAL IRRIGATION PROGRAMME FROM 5 TO 12 SEPTEMBER ANNOUNCED
CHANDIGARH, SEPTEMBER 4:
The Irrigation Department, Punjab has announced the Rotational Programme for irrigation for the Kharif Season through Canal water from 5-9-2012 to 12-9-2012. The channels and branches off-taking from Ropar Head Works, the channels of Sirhind Canal System would run on the priority basis from Sidhwan Branch, Bathinda Branch, Bist Doab canal, Patiala Feeder and Abohar Branch, respectively.
Disclosing this here today a spokesman of the Irrigation Department said that the distributaries and branches of BML, Direct Distributaries of Group ‘A’, being in the channels of first preference, would run to their indent. Balance water supplies available, would be utilized in the Ghaggar Branch and Patiala Minor, in Group ‘B’, respectively.
The spokesman further said that Punjab channels and branchs off-taking from Harike and Ferozpur Head Works, all the Direct Distributaries of Sirhind Feeder in Group ‘A’, being in 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, in Group ‘B’.
The spokesman also said that the in the Upper Bari Doab Canal system, Kasur Branch Lower with their distributaries, being in the first preference, would run to their indent. Balance water supplies available, would be utilized in Sabhroan Branch, Lahore Branch and Main Branch Lower with their distributaries, respectively.
The spokesman further said that water level of dams would be taken into consideration while implementing rotational programme of canals.
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Punjab Congress resolves to force govt to withdraw punitive taxes
CHANDIGARH, September 3: Punjab Pradesh Congress Committee today resolved to force the Akali-BJP government in the state to withdraw the punitive taxes it has imposed on the people of the state. The party will hold massive dharnas on September 7 at all the district headquarters. The PCC President will attend the dharna at Ludhiana.
A meeting of the party office bearers, district presidents, MLAs and those who contested the last assembly election unsuccessfully was held at the Congress Bhawan today. It was presided over by the PCC President Capt Amarinder Singh and attended among others by the senior leaders including the Congress Legislative Party leader Sunil Jakhar, vice presidents Laal Singh, Rana KP, Fateh Bajwa, Ashwani Sekhri, Chaduahry Jagjit, Aruna Chudhary,
Vikram Bajwa, NSUI president Gobind Khatra and others.
23 district presidents, 29 MLAs and 30 defeated candidates also attended the meeting.
The meeting resolved to ensure maximum participation of people in the dharnas to protest against the anti people policies of the Punjab government.
Addressing the meeting Capt Amarinder said, the government had betrayed the trust of the people and let them down. He said, every section of the society was upset and unhappy and they wanted the Congress to provide lead to voice their protest and resentment against them.
CENTRE SHOULD PERFORM ITS DUTY TO CHECK NARCOTIC SMUGGLING-SUKHBIR
STATE SHOULD BE GIVEN FLEXIBILITY TO MOULD CENTRAL SCHEMES ACCORDING TO LOCAL NEEDS
UNION GOVERNMENT COMPELLED PUNJAB TO IMPOSE PROPERTY TAX FOR RELEASING JNRUM GRANTS
Bathinda/Chandigarh, September 3 :
Punjab Deputy Chief Minister Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal today asked Union government to perform its duty to effectively check smuggling of narcotics through Indo-Pak border.
Speaking to media persons here today after inauguration of sub office of a media house, Mr. Badal rued that increasing failures of narcotics by Punjab police suggested that first line of defence manned by BSF on Indo-Pak border seems to be quite porous. Mr. Badal said that he had given single point agenda to Punjab police to crack down on narcotic mafia to save the future of our young generation. He said that he had vowed at Sri Harmandir Sahib to launch a campaign against drug trafficiking and he was quiet hopefull that with the blessings of the almighty he would take out Punjab from this menace of drug addiction. Mr. Badal said that with BSF posted at Indo-Pak border, Punjab police could play only a second line of defence and we have recovered more than 265 kg of Heroine during last few months against total seizure of 500 kgs in whole country suggesting that Punjab police has intensified its war against drug mafia.
Mr. Badal said that large scale arrests, auction of properties of drug lords besides coordinated campaign with Narcotic Bureau of India would be instrumental in finishing this menace forever.
When asked about property tax, Mr. Badal said that Punjab government was arm twisted to levy this tax on urban population as Union government had stopped the release of grants under JNRUM schemes. He said that pre conditions of forcing states to levy taxes against its wishes was against the principle of constitutional principles. Seeking flexibility in fixing the norms for the Central schemes according to the state’s needs, Mr. Badal said that in a vast and diversified country like India, a single nor for implementation of all schemes was not practical. He said that states should be given its allocated funds and they should be given freedom to spend the funds as per immediate development requirements of the states.
Mr. Badal said that last year Rs. 1100 crore was withheld by Union government as we refused to levy property tax and this year they had stopped the release of Rs. 900 crore grant. He said that we were forced by the Union government to levy this tax against our wishes.
When asked about PPCC Chief Capt. Amarinder Singh’s protest against imposition of taxes, Mr. Badal said that instead of protesting in the state, he should stage dharna before 10 Janpath to get these anti people directions on JNRUM withdrawn. He said that people of Punjab were vigilant enough as they were fully aware that these taxes were levied on Centre’s directions and Capt’s road shows cannot change the reality.
Earlier, Mr. Badal inaugurated a sub office of a vernacular daily. He also reviewed the implementation of various development schemes in the Bathinda city.
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CONGRESS MAY USE MANPREET IN WHATEVER WAY IT LIKES-SAD
MANPREET AND CAPT. AMARINDER SINGH ARE TWO SIDES OF
SAME COIN-DR. CHEEMA
Chandigarh, September 3 : Commenting on the statement of Punjab Pradesh Congress Committee Chief Capt. Amarinder Singh that Congress may form alliance with Manpreet Singh Badal, the Shiromani Akali Dal said that the Congress party is free to use the services of Manpreet Singh Badal in whatever way it wants. Everybody knows that Congress party and Manpreet Badal are two sides of the same coin.
In a statement released from the party head office here today the party Secretary and Spokesman Dr. Daljit Singh Cheema said that in Punjab assembly polls Congress was under the impression that if Manpreet Singh Badal goes to polls as a separate group, it will benefit the Congress but the people of the state were aware of the unprincipled and selfish understanding of both of them and they taught them a lesson. But now the beleaguered Capt. Amarinder Singh, under attack from the leaders of his own party, is playing another tactics of declaring a pre- poll alliance with Mr Manpreet Singh Badal. It shows the bankruptcy of both the leaders and their last ditch effort for political survival. Dr. Cheema also said that only similarity between the two leaders is that before elections both of them make tall promises with the public and after elections they advocate banning of subsidies and other welfare measures.
Dr. Cheema further said that keeping in view the circumstances in Delhi where the Congress party has been totally exposed as the mother of corruption as well as the mandate for the Punjab assembly and the Civic body elections, Capt. Amarinder Singh should stop daydreaming. “Whatever may be alliance the Congress will face the same fate as that of Manpreet Singh Badal”, he added.
Replying to the issue of election manifesto, the SAD leader reminded Capt. Amarinder Singh that instead of advising the SAD-BJP alliance, the Congress leader should read the election manifesto he released during assembly polls in 2002. After remaining in power for full five years, the Congress party failed to provide free power to the farmers, shagun scheme to dalit girls, 4-9-14 promotion scheme to the employees, abolition of octroi for traders, job to one member each of the scheduled castes families and so on. It looks funny that the same Capt. Amarinder Singh who backtracked from all the promises he made to the public, is questioning the SAD-BJP alliance on the issue.
He said that SAD-BJP alliance has a history of fulfilling what it promises and will repeat it during its present tenure.
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CM GREETS VIPUL MEHTA FOR ACHIEVING INDIAN IDOL TITLE
PUNJAB GOVT. TO HONOUR VIPUL – HARCHARAN BAINS
CHANDIGARH SEPTEMBER 03:
The Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today felicitated the talented Punjabi youth from Amritsar Vipul Mehta for winning the prestigious title of Indian Idol-6 after a tough singing competition.
In his message, Mr. Badal said that it was a matter of great honour for all Punjabis that Vipul had achieved this title with his sheer hard work thereby exhibiting his extra ordinary talent to become the heart throb of millions of his admirers not with in the country but across the globe. The Chief Minister wished him a bright future and success in his life. He also congratulated the Vipul’s parents, friends and relatives on his rare feat.
Meanwhile, the Advisor for National Affairs & Media to the Chief Minister, Mr. Harcharan Bains informed that Punjab government would also honour Vipul for his eventful accomplishment.
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FARMERS’ DELEGATION FROM GUJARAT CALLS ON BADAL
CM ASSURES TO TAKE UP AGRI-LAND OWNERSHIP ISSUE WITH MODI
CHANDIGARH, SEPTEMBER 3
A 17-member delegation of Punjabi farmers from Bhuj and Kutch (Gujarat) led by Spokesperson of SAD Mr. Balwant Singh Ramoowalia called on the Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal to seek his personal intervention for resolving the issue of their legitimate ownership right over the agriculture land being ploughed by them over past 40 years.
Expressing the plight of more than thousand farmers, a member of the deputation Mr. Surinder Singh Bhullar informed the Chief Minister that Gujrat Government was uprooting these farmers with Punjab and Haryana origin under the Bombay Tenancy and Agricultural Lands (Vidarbha Region) Act, which was totally unjust and unreasonable as these farmers had developed the barren land of Gujarat in to fertile one with their constant hard work and labour. Despite having all legal and revenue documents in their possession, now they were being denied from the legitimate ownership rights over the agricultural land, he further informed.
Responding to issue raised by the delegation, Mr. Badal assured the members that he would take-up this matter with the Chief Minister of Gujarat Mr. Narender Modi and Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) high command for the early redrerssal of the issue. He said that SAD-BJP government was fully committed for the welfare of the farmers in general and especially the farmers belonging to Punjab and settled in other parts of the country.
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CM ASSURES KANG FOR SEEKING RELAXATION IN NORMS OF PLPA FROM GOI
ASKS LOCAL GOVT. TO PROVIDE BASIC CIVIC AMENITIES TO RESIDENTS OF NAC NAYAGAON ON PRIORITY
CHANDIGARH SEPTEMBER 03:
Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today said that the state government would soon take up the matter with the Ministry of Environment and Forests, GoI for seeking relaxations in the conditions of delisted land under the Punjab Land Preservation Act (PLPA) to allow the construction of residential premises within the jurisdiction of NAC Nayagaon.
An assurance of this effect was given by Mr. Badal during a meeting with delegation of councilors of Nayagaon Notified Area Committee (NAC) led by the Congress MLA from Kharar Mr. Jagmohan Singh Kang, who called on him here at Chief Minister Residence this morning.
Taking part in the deliberations, Principal Secretary Local Govt. Mr. Suresh Kumar apprised the Chief Minister that the Ministry of Environment & Forests GoI has clearly asked the state government not to permit any commercial activity on the delisted land and also further instructed the government to ensure the bonafide use of this land only for agriculture and sustaining the livelihood of the person/owner.
The Chief Minister asked the Principal Local government to tie up with the Advocate General Punjab and Mr. Kang to discuss the issue threadbare so that a consensus could be evolved on this vexed issue before sending a concrete proposal to GoI for seeking relaxations in the norms of delisted land. Mr. Badal assured the delegation that he would also personally take up this issue with the Union Minister Environment & Forests for its early resolution to the advantage of the residents of Nayagaon.
On the issue of poor conditions of roads and sewerage system raised by Mr. Kang, the Chief Minister informed the MLA Kharar that the state government had already released first installment of Rs.12 crore for the laying of sewerage system in Nayagaon. He said the state government was committed to provide the basic civic amenities to the residents of Nayagaon on priority. He also told Mr. Kang that the Technical Advisor to Punjab Government Lt. Gen.(Retd.) Mr. BS Dhaliwal was personally monitoring the ongoing sewerage projects in Kurali and Kharar to ensure its proper alignment. Mr. Badal also directed the Local Govt. department to ensure the timely construction of roads, sewerage system, street lights besides the supply of potable drinking water and the approval of site plans for the construction of houses in Nayagaon. Mr. Badal also directed CMD PSPCL Mr. KD Chaudhary to allow installation of electricity meters which had been temporarily stopped by the corporation.
Meanwhile, Mr. Kang thanked the Chief Minister for giving patient hearing to the delegation and redressing their grievances to their satisfaction.
Prominent amongst others who attended the meeting included Principal Secretary to Chief Minister Mr. SK Sandhu, Special Principal Secretary to Chief Minister Mr. Gurkirat Kirpal Singh and Director Local Govt. Mr. Ashok Gupta.
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PUNJAB ISSUES GUIDELINES FOR REVIVAL AND CREATION OF POSTS
- ADMINISTRATIVE DEPARTMENTS URGED TO SEND PROPOSALS BY 31ST MARCH, 2013
CHANDIGARH, SEPTEMBER 3:
The Punjab Government has issued comprehensive guidelines for the creation of new posts, revival of posts and the recruitment against these posts, conversion of temporary posts into permanent, abolition and transfer of posts, fresh recruitment against existing vacancies or new vacancies and restructuring/re-organizing of the government departments. These guidelines have been issued in the suppression of all previous instructions on the subject issued time to time.
Disclosing this here, Finance Minister Mr. Parminder Singh Dhindsa said that as per the instructions of the department issued at different times in the past, all the departments were required to complete the restructuring exercise by 31st March, 2010. He said that there was confusion regarding the procedure to be adopted for the creation of new posts. Besides, there are large numbers of temporary posts, which have continued from year to year with the approval of Finance Department. It was therefore necessary to issued fresh instructions to the departments for the creation, revival, fresh recruitment and abolition of posts.
Mr. Dhindsa said that many departments have temporary posts like; Education, Health and Police Departments. He said that the Finance Department, while allowing continuation during 2012-13, has clearly stipulated that departments would either get these posts converted into permanent or get them abolished. He further said that Finance Department would not entertain any proposal for continuation of temporary posts during the year 2013-14. Finance Minister said that it is therefore imperative that all Administrative Departments send there proposals in time for the necessary approval of Council of Ministers by 31st March, 2013.
Clarifying the procedure of the this whole exercise, the Minister said that the Administrative Departments would submit their proposals to the Department of Personnel, which further be put before the Officers Committee headed by Chief Secretary, Punjab with its comments. Administrative Departments would then obtain the comments from Finance Department; thereafter Administrative Departments would seek the approval of Council of Ministers.
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INTRUCTIONS REGARDING THE PUBLICATION OF NOTIFICATIONS
CHANDIGARH, SEPTEMBER 3:
The Punjab Government today issued strict instructions regarding the publication of notifications in the gazette. The Legal Remembrance, Punjab today said that under the new instructions all the departments have been asked to send the matter in CD or pen drive to be published along with the copies of the blue print of the matter.
He further said that besides that all the departments have also been asked to compare the matter with the blue print of the Law Department and also to send the three attested copies to the Law Department, so that the possibilities of error should be removed during publication. He said that all departments should send the matter up to 12.30pm, which they want to be published on the same day; otherwise they should send it on the very next day. He said that it has also made mandatory to clarify that the sent matter to be published in special or ordinary gazette.
The spokesman further said that the concerned department should also make it clear that how many copies they want to publish for their use. The phone numbers of concerned superintendent should also be mention in the matter, so that Law Department could contact directly to the superintendent in case of any enquiry.
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DATE EXTENDED FOR PRESS COUNCIL JOURNALISM AWARDS
- NOMINATIONS BE SENT TILL SEPTEMBER 20
CHANDIGARH, SEPTEMBER 3:
The Press Council of India (PCI) extended the last date of sending entries for its newly instituted National Awards to promote excellence in print media.
Disclosing this here today, an official spokesman of council said that as the awards instituted by PCI carry national importance, it was felt that the time given for filling of nominations from all over the country was too short to give wide publicity to the event. He further said that nominations could now be sent till September 20. The earlier deadline for these awards was 16th August, 2012.
The spokesman said that the awards to be given in six categories, with the Raja Ram Mohan Roy National Award for Excellence in Journalism carrying the highest cash prize of Rs.1,00,000. The other categories are Rural Journalism, Development Reporting, Women Empowerment and Photo Journalism, in which there are two sub categories; Single news picture and photo feature. These awards carry a cash component of Rs.50,000 each besides the cash awards these awards consist of a plaque and a citation.
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GRANTS WOULD DIRECTLY DEPOSIT IN PANCHAYATS BANK ACCOUNTS: RAKHRA
- Rs. 52.93 CRORE HAS DIRECTELY CREDITED IN PANCHAYATS BANK ACCOUNS
- AUDIT OF PANCHAYATS ACCOUNTS WOULD BRING TRANSPARECNY
- ALSO PROVIDE BOOST TO DEVELOPMENT WORKS IN RURAL AREAS
CHANDIGARH, SEPTEMBER 3:
The amount of grants would now be directly credited in the bank accounts of Panchayats in the state as the Punjab Government has taken this decision with a view to give a boost to ongoing development projects besides bringing transparency in disbursement and use of grants.
Disclosing this here today, Mr. Surjit Singh Rakhra, Rural Development and Panchayats Minster, Punjab said that the Punjab Government has also made the audit of panchayats mandatory to bring further transparency and constructive use of grants. He said that process of direct deposit of grants has been started and a total amount of Rs. 52.93 crore has been directly credited in the bank accounts of Panchayats for the purpose of water supply, sanitation, street lights, cleanliness of ponds and other development works in rural areas.
Mr. Rakhra said that the issue of delay in disbursement of grants to the Panchayats has come to the notice of department leading to create hurdles in the development projects. He said that online payment of grants to the panchayats would bring more transparency, efficiency in the overall development of rural areas besides eliminating alleged irregularities in use of grants. The Minister said that the amounts would be credited same day in the bank accounts of panchayats through BDPO.
Informing about the Audit process of panchayats accounts, Mr. Rakhra said that the regular audits of banks accounts would be mandatory and the state government has finalised the process of audit through a pact with Charted Accountant Association.
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PUNJAB GOVERNMENT SANCTIONS RS 10 CRORE FOR FOCAL POINTS-JOSHI
CHANDIGAH, September 3:
The Punjab Government today sanctioned Rs 10 crore for the development of Focal Points across the state. The Special Purpose Vehicle would also be set up to ensure quality infrastructure and facilities in all Focal Points through at the state.
Disclosing this here today Industry and commerce Minister, Punjab Mr. Anil Joshi said Besides that Punjab Government has also issued notification for the Punjab Common Infrastructure (Regulation and Maintenance) act 2012 with an aim to uplift the basic Infrastructure in all Focal Points.
The Minister further said that the Punjab Government has made necessary changes in the Act to attract the private players for the maintenance of Focal Points. He said that Industrial Focal Points and Parks would be set up in all Focal Points under the Public-Private partnership.
He said that Punjab Government has committed to provide all kind of facilities in Focal points to attract the Investment in the state. He said that with the money facility of roads, street lights, water supply, sewerage connections, Garbage treatment plants would be provided in Focal Points.
The Minister said that to improve the condition of Focal Points, the SAD-BJP Government led by Chief Minister has taken many initiatives, so that the target of Rs 1 lakh crore investments could be met.
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PB GOVT RECONSTITUTES KANDI AREA ADVISORY COUNCIL
- CM WOULD BE CHAIRMAN, WHILE DY CM, VARIOUS MPS, MLAS AND PRINCIPAL SECRETARY INDUCTED AS MEMBERS
CHANDIGARH, SEPTEMBER 3:
The Punjab Government has reconstituted Punjab State Submontane and Kandi Area Advisory Council for the all round development of the Kandi area. Mr. Parkash Singh Badal, Chief Minister, Punjab would be chairman of this council, whereas Deputy Chief Minister Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal, various MPs, MLAs and Principal Secretaries of different departments have been inducted as members in this council.
Disclosing this here today, an official spokesman said that this council would act to define the submontane and Kandi area of the state. Similarly, it would also be the function of this council to aid and advice the government in drawing up schemes and programmes for the development of this Kandi area.
Enumerating the various other functions this council supposed to play, he said that this committee would undertake the area planning of these areas in order to ensure integrated and all round development of this area, to fix priorities of various development works to be executed in these areas, to co-ordinate and review the activities of various departments with a view to remove the bottlenecks in the speedy implementation of programmes, to take effective steps for spreading literacy in these areas and to devise measures to raise the standard of living of the backward section, landless labourers and agricultural works in these area.
The spokesman further said that apart from Deputy Chief Minister, the other official members of these council included Revenue Minister, Finance Minister, Chief Secretary, Financial Commissioner, Development, Financial Commissioner, Forest and Wild Life, Principal Secretary, Finance, Principal Secretary, Industries and Commerce, Principal Secretary, Irrigation, Principal Secretary, Planning, Secretary, Power, Secretary, School Education, Secretary, PWD B&R, Secretary, Water Supply and Sanitation, Chairman cum MD, Punjab State Transmission Corporation Limited, Chairman cum MD, Punjab State Power Corporation Limited and Deputy Commissioners of Hoshiarpur, Roop Nagar, SAS Nagar, SBS Nagar and Pathankot. He said that the non-official members from district Hoshiarpur are MP Hoshiarpur, MLAs of Mukerian, Dasuya, Chabbewal, Garhshankar, Sham Churasi and Hoshiarpur, from district Roop Nagar; MP Anandpur Sahib and MLAs Anandpur Sahib and Roop Nagar, from district SAS Nagar; MP Patiala, MLAs Dera Bassi, SAS Nagar and Kharar, from district SBS Nagar; MP Anandpur Sahi and MLA Balachaur and from district Pathankot MP Gurdaspur and MLAs from Sujanpur, Bhoa and Pathankot have been inducted in this council.
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Use E- mail for routine corresspondence,
PUnjab education department orders
Chandigarh, September 3:
The Education Department Punjab is all set to emrace modern technology for its daily routine departmental works. Director General School Education has issued instruction to the District authorities to use e-mail to routine daily corresspondence and not to precure hard copies where ever not neccessary.
Disclosing this here today a official spokesman said that all the District Education Officer, Block Primary Education Officers and Main office of the department have been instructed to use e-mail for their daily corresspondence. The spokesperson said that most of the District Education Offices ask for e-mail as well as hard copy of the required information which on one hand is the wastage of time and wastage of paper on the other hand. He said that officers have been directed to precure hard copies on those circumstances where the internet facility is not available. He said that most of the times performas are send to the schools to get informations. He said that this kind of information should be get only through e-mails. He said that the department has provide internet facilities in all the offices including Governement High School, Senior secendary School and Middle Schools. He said that stern action would be taken against all those officers, who would not adhere to this instructions.
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One IPS and one pps TRANSFERRED
Chandigarh, September 3:
The Punjab Government today issued postings and transfer orders of 1 IPS and 1 PPS officers with immediate effect.
Mr Inderbir Singh, IPS , SSP Khana has been transferred and posted as SSP Kapurthala and Mr. Ravcharan Singh Brar, PPS, SSP Kapurthala has been transferred and posted as SSP Khana.
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Capt Amarinder says no matter how much vendetta Badals resort to Congress stands firm
PATTI (TARN TARAN), September 2: Punjab Pradesh Congress Committee President Capt Amarinder Singh today said that no matter how much vendetta the Akalis resort to, the Congress workers were firm in their resolve to fight against all odds. He said, nothing was going to deter them from standing up against the government no matter to what extent the government unleashed its vendetta.
Addressing a largely attended public meeting organised by the Punjab Congress Secretary and local party candidate Harminder Gill, Capt Amarinder said, this government had lost all the faith and goodwill of the people and it had now started not only targeting its opponents but even discriminating against them by keeping them out of various welfare schemes.
Capt Amarinder accompanied by senior party leaders including Mr Laal Singh, Fateh Jang Bajwa, Rana Gurjit, Ramanjit Singh Sikki and others, reached here around 1 pm driving from Chandigarh. He was stopped by party workers and supporters on the way at Mullanpur Dakha, Moga, Makhu and Zira before reaching to a tumultuous welcome here. At Moga local MLA Joginder Pal Jain led hundreds of party workers to receive the PCC President.
Lashing out at the government for failing the expectations of the people, he said, it had resorted to punitive taxation stealthily by imposing the taxes outside the budget. He said, had the government imposed the taxes in the budget it would have been wiped out in the corporation elections.
The PCC President said, instead of imposing the taxes the government should have widened the tax base by encouraging investment which would not only have generated revenue but created jobs as well. Instead, he remarked, it preferred the short term measures to strangulate everyone even the small 50 yards plot holders.
He also questioned the government's logic in purchasing a helicopter for Rs 38 crores. "You are taxing people for your own luxuries and profligacies”, he remarked while pointing out how the government had appointed 22 Chief Parliamentary Secretaries and advisors with cabinet rank and all benefits at the cost of the state exchequer.
He also referred to the appointment of 150 additional, assistant and deputy advocates general by the government, most of whom are the kith and kin of the Akali and BJP leaders. While government is spending about Rs one crores every month on them when it comes to pleading the cases the government has to hire lawyers from Delhi as most of these law officers are not competent enough.
Referring to the problem of drug addiction and law and order raised by Harminder Gill, Capt Amarinder said, it was the natural fallout of the economic problems. When economy gets weaker the issues related to law and order are bound to rise and there are going to be thefts and dacoities.
He remarked, there was also nothing unusual about the Akalis promoting the drug trade as several Akali leaders were known to be drug paddlers.
Prominent among those present today included Mr Laal Singh, Fatehjang Bajwa, Rana Gurjeet, Rmanjit Singh Sikki, Gurchet Singh Bhullar, Dharamveer Agnihotri, Harminder Gill, Gurjeet Aujla, Major Amardeep, Sonu Dhesi, Jugal Kishore Sharma and others.
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MAJITHIA GREETS VIPUL MEHTA FOR WINNING THE TITLE OF INDIAN IDOL
Chandigarh, SEPTEMBER 2:
Mr. Bikram Singh Majithia, Revenue and Public Relations Minister, Punjab today felicitated Amritsar lad Vipul Mehta for clinching a prestigious title of Indian Idol-6 through a tough competition, which was a matter of great pride for Punjab.
In a greeting message, Mr. Majithia said that it was not easy to win the title of Indian Idol as numbers of budding talented stars from across the country were performing in the competition but the performance of Vipul was unmatchable. He said that Amritsar has already given top icons to Indian Cinema including world renowned actors Mr. Rajesh Khanna, Mr. Dara Singh and legendary singer Mohammad Rafi and now Vipul is going to add new feather in the cap thereof.
Extending congratulations to the Vipul’s family, Mr. Majithia said that it was too a matter of great pride from Punjab that the other two participants of final round Mr. Davinder Pal Singh and Mr. Amit Kumar were also from Ludhiana and Amritsar respectively. He said that this unique performance and achievement of Vipul would not only give a boost to the music industry of Punjab but also motivate the youngsters towards music.
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Rebels' activities helping govt: Capt Amarinder
PATTI (TARN TARAN),September 2: Punjab Pradesh Congress Committee President Capt Amarinder Singh today said the rebels' activities were indeed helping the ruling Akali-BJP alliance government particularly at a time when Congress had launched an action programme against it (the government).
Replying to a question whether the rebels were doing it at the behest of the government, Capt Amarinder said, he really did not know at whose behest they were doing it, but their activities were certainly helping the government.
In answer to another question about the allegations that he was not accessible, he asked, "how come they realised after the elections only that I was inaccessible and not during the last 14 years I have been at the forefront of the Punjab Congress holding various positions like that of the Chief Minister, PCC President and the Chairman of the Campaign Committee?"
Asked whether he planned or proposed any action against the rebels since they had breached the party discipline, the PCC President said, he did not favour any action against anyone and he treated everbody as his colleague and friend. However, he added, the high command was also seized of the matter as everything was being taken note of by the party high command.
Capt Amarinder asserted that the party was united and there was no change in the enthusiasm among the party workers. He pointed out the presence of thousands of workers at today's programme was enough indication that they were very much attached to the Congress.
About his appeal to other opposition parties to participate in the anti-government dharnas he clarified, it was related only to a particular issue of protesting against the anti-people policies of the government. He said, political alliance if any can be worked at and decided later and the final decision will be taken by the high command only.
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ABOLISH THE CRITERIA OF ARMY RECRUITMENT ON THE BASIS OF ‘RECRUITABLE MALE POPULATION’- CM URGES GOI
• BADAL AND UNION MINISTER OF STATE FOR DEFENCE JOINTLY INAUGURATE
NATION’S FIRST NCC TRAINING ACADEMY IN MALOUT
• NOW PUNJAB WILL BE ABLE TO HOLD NATIONAL NCC CAMPS
• 55,000 NCC CADETS OF THE STATE TO GET WORLD CLASS TRAINING
Malout (Sri Muktsar Sahib), September 2
Punjab Chief Minister Mr Parkash Singh Badal today urged the Government of India (GoI) to abolish the existing criteria of Army recruitment on the basis of ‘Recruitable Male population’ and replace it with the one on the basis of capability and merit as done in the past, to enable more and more Punjabis to join the Armed forces on the basis of merit.
Addressing the gathering here after inaugurating the first NCC Academy of the country jointly with the Union Minister of State for Defence Dr. M. Mangapatti Pallam Raju, Mr Badal said that there was a time when Punjabis dominated the Indian army with majority of soldiers
(Jawans) besides the top brass including Generals, Major Generals, Brigadiers and Colonels hailing from state. However he bemoaned that the state had suffered adversely after the GoI had adopted the criteria of recruitment on the basis of ‘Recruitable Male population’
of the state as a result of which the share of Punjab in Army has been restricted because it constitutes only 2.5% of the national population. The Chief Minister impressed upon Dr Raju that it was the need of the hour to change the formula so as to allow more and more youth of state to join the Army.
The Chief Minister said that today was a ‘Red Letter day’ for Punjab as two NCC training academies were being inaugurated at Rupnagar and Malout for imparting the best training facilities to National Cadet Corps (NCC) cadets from state for further grooming them for Indian Armed forces. Mr. Badal said that it was indeed a matter of pride and honor for them that Punjab was the first state in the country to have two world class training centers for imparting coaching to the NCC cadets. He further said that though the NCC was started in the year
1948 in the country but Punjabi youth had to face several difficulties due to the lack of any professional academy in the state to impart training to them.
The Chief Minister further said that to aggrieve the situation the insufficient infra structure of NCC deprived the state from holding national level camps here and bereft the Punjabi youth from the opportunities to share experiences with the cadets of other states by holding a joint camp. However, Mr. Badal said that with the opening of these prestigious NCC training academies new avenues would be opened for Punjabis youth to join the Armed forces. He also said that by opening these academies the SAD-BJP government has fulfilled its promise made to youth for imparting training to them for preparing them for the Armed forces.
The Chief Minister said that the NCC training centre for the boys at Rupnagar has been constructed over an area of 9 acres at a cost of Rs
9 crore and in the same manner the NCC training centre for the girls at Malout has been constructed over an area of 6 acres at a cost of Rs
9.80 crore. He pointed out that with the opening of these academies around 55 thousand cadets from the state would be imparted training for joining the Army, Navy and Air Force under one roof thereby brightening their chances to join the Armed forces. Mr. Badal said that not only this but these newly set up NCC training academies would be instrumental in organizing the national level camps of the NCC in Punjab from time to time, which would prove to be a boon for the NCC cadets from the state.
Expressing gratitude to Union Defence Minister Mr. AK Antony and Union State Minister for Defence Dr. M. Mangapatti Pallam Raju for their active co-operation and support in the completion of both these academies, the Chief Minister said that these training centers would prove to be milestone in the history of the NCC and would act as a source of inspiration for cadets to excel in the field of Defence services and becoming ideal citizens of society. Emphasizing on the need of imparting military training to the youth for making them ideal and disciplined citizens of the country, Mr Badal said that realizing its importance the state Government has already allotted Rs 1.5 crore for the NCC Training Centers and for the purchase of requisite infra structure in the units so that world class training could be imparted to the youth. Besides, the state government had already made budgetary provision of Rs 18 crore to be spent on training of 55,000 cadets and for other activities, he added.
The Chief Minister further said that in order to prepare the youth for the Armed forces the state government has also opened 4 New NCC units in Punjab which included 23 NCC Boys battalion at Rupnagar, 6 Punjab NCC Girls Battalion at Malout, 2 Punjab R&V Squadron at Ghuda and 3 Punjab Navel Unit NCC at Bathinda. He said that apart from these NCC academies the SAD-BJP government has also established Maharaja Ranjit Singh Armed Forces Preparatory Institute at Mohali to motivate the budding youth to join the Armed forces, where free training and education is provided to them. Likewise Mr Badal said that to provide best training opportunities to youth for joining Armed forces a Service Selection Centre was being set up over an area of 200 acre at Rupnagar, for which the state government has already provided its land. He urged the Union Minister of State for Defense to get the work started on the construction of centre with immediate effect.
The Chief Minister further said to encourage and train the youth for joining the Merchant Navy a Naval Academy was also being established at Rupnagar. Likewise he said that as many as 16 C-PYTE Centres have been set up across the state to provide training to nearly 10,000 youth for recruitment in Military and Para Military forces.
Mr Badal pointed out that the very spirit of patriotism was in the blood of Punjabis since birth which had always kept them in forefront for safeguarding the unity and integrity of the country besides making countless sacrifices during internal as well as external aggression even after independence. He said that it was a matter of fact that 80% of the Punjabis were amongst the countrymen who either faced gallows or were imprisoned for life displaying their firm resolve to free their motherland from the yoke of foreign imperialism. The Chief Minister said that even in post independence Punjabis played a pivotal role in safeguarding the unity and integrity of the country besides making it self reliant in food production.
Addressing the gathering Union Minister of State for Defence Dr. M.
Mangapatti Pallam Raju said that the two NCC Academies inaugurated in Punjab today would go a long way in imparting quality training to the NCC cadets of the state. Thanking the Punjab Chief Minister Mr Parkash Singh Badal for the timely completion of the work on both these projects, Dr. Raju said that due to the untiring efforts of the state government Punjab has become the maiden state of the country to have such state of art academies for training the cadets. Lauding the role of Punjabis in safeguarding the frontiers of the country and making the country self sufficient in food production, the Union Defence Minister said that the nation was indebted for their marvelous contribution.
The leader of opposition in state assembly Chaudhary Sunil Kumar Jakhar also addressed the gathering.
Earlier welcoming the guests, the Director General of NCC Lieutenant General PS Bhalla A.V.S.M apprised them about the activities of the NCC. On the occasion the NCC cadets presented ‘Guard of Honor’ to Union Minister of State for Defence.
Prominent amongst those present on the occasion included Lok Sabha MP Mr. Sher Singh Ghubaya, Mr. Harpreet Singh and Mrs Karan Kaur Brar (both MLAs) and Special Principal Secretary to the Chief Minister Mr KJS Cheema.
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PUNJAB DRAWS WELFARE PACKAGE WORTH Rs. 2113.09 CRORES FOR SCHEDULED CASTES: RANIKE
· RS. 828.47 FOR BASIC INFRASTRUCTURE DEVELOPMENT
· CARELESSNESS IN IMPLEMENTATION OF SC SUBPLAN AND WELFARE SCHEMES WOULD NOT BE TOLERATED
CHANDIGARH, SEPTEMBER 2: The Punjab Government has allocated a dedicated fund of Rs. 2113.09 crore for the welfare of Scheduled Castes, Backward Classes and for the welfare of economic weaker sections of the society besides issuing strict directions for speedy and proper implementation of SC Sub Plan and welfare schemes in the state.
Disclosing this here today, Mr. Gulzar Singh Ranike, Minister for SC/BC Welfare, said that Punjab Government would strictly implement the SC Sub Plan in the state to provide benefits of the scheme at ground level. He said that Rs. 2113.09 crores would be spent under the SC Sub Plan for the welfare of Scheduled Castes facilitating them all necessary benefits. He said that in the budget for current 2012-13 session Rs. 1284.62 crore out of total 2113.09 crore would be spent through Welfare Department under various welfare schemes while the Finance Department would control the remaining 824.47 crore, which would be spend on the development of basic infrastructure to be provided to the beneficiaries.
Speaking about the already existing welfare schemes for the different sections of the society, Mr. Ranike said that the SAD-BJP government is successfully running the welfare schemes for SC/BCs, Minorities and other economically weaker sections of the society including shagun scheme, scholarships, free power and pensions. He said that Punjab Government has been providing Rs. 15000 financial help as Shagun to the girls belonging to SC/BC Communities, Christians and economically weaker families of other communities. He said that the state government has made the process of getting Shagun more easy by disbursing the amount directly in the bank account of beneficiary He said that now the applicants would have to submit their applications before 15 days of marriage.
Mr. Ranike asserted that Punjab Government was very particular for the speedy and proper implementation of welfare schemes so no carelessness would be tolerated in this regard. He said that necessary directions in this regard have already been issued to all Principal Secretary, Commissioners of Divisions, Deputy Commissioners and other concerned officers.
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FINLAND UNIVERSITY OFFERS TO SET UP WORLD CLASS RESEARCH FACILITY AT MOHALI
v RS.30 CRORE PROJECT TO PROVIDE LATEST R&D TO PHARMA AND BIOTECH SECTORS
v WOULD BE THE 3RD LARGEST COMMERCIAL RESEARCH LAB IN THE WORLD
Chandigarh, September 2: OULU University- a Finland’s Technical University and globally acknowledged as a great centre of learning and research in joint collaboration with VTT Technical Research Group has approached Punjab government to set up a world class Biotech & Pharma research lab at Mohali to give a real boost to knowledge based industry in the state.
A delegation of Finland entrepreneur group headed by an Indian entrepreneur Mr. Atul Khanna last evening called on Punjab Deputy Chief Minister Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal with their offer to set up Rs.30 crore high-tech research and development lab at Mohali to promote R&D linkages with industry, its expansion into biotech and to explore how to use such linkages to create a light house for knowledge industry to take root in Punjab.
Interacting with them Mr. Badal said that he was envisioning Mohali as an IT, Electronic and Knowledge hub of south East Asia and he would welcome such world class research facility in the knowledge city that would provide R&D base to upcoming knowledge Industry, Pharma and Biotech sectors all over the world. He said that he would ask Punjab Technical University who was looking for a reputed knowledge partner to work out the process for joint venture with Finland.
Mr. Atul Khanna informed the Deputy Chief Minister that this world class lab would be catalytic in providing access to world class knowledge for faculty teaching and students, knowhow in translational research, knowhow for converting this research into application in Industry and Agriculture and enabling Industry and Agriculture in Punjab to adopt products and technologies generated.
They informed that this Rs.30 crore lab would be set up on a piece of land of 3 acre and the lab would be completed within 12 months.
Mr. Badal assured the Finland delegation to provide total support of Punjab government for finalization of conceptual plan of research lab at the earliest.
Prominent amongst those who participated in the meeting included Mr. Rakesh Singh, Chief Secretary, Principal Secretary Technical Education Mr. S.S. Channi, Principal Secretary to Deputy Chief Minister Mr. P.S. Aujla, Special Principal Secretaries to Deputy Chief Minister Mr. A.K. Mahajan and Mr. Manvesh Singh Sidhu.
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Capt Amarinder appeals all opposition parties to unite against govt
CHANDIGARH, September 1:
Punjab Pradesh Congress Committee President Capt Amarinder Singh today appealed to all the opposition parties in Punjab, including the People’s Party of Punjab, the Communist Party of India, the Communist Party of India (Marxist) and the Bahujan Samaj Party to come together to fight against the anti-people policies of the Akali-BJP government. He also invited them to join the statewide dharnas being staged by the Congress at all the district headquarters on September 7.
Addressing a press conference at the Punjab Congress Bhawan here today, the PCC President said, there was a strong and genuine cause for all the like minded opposition political parties to come together and prevent this government from imposing punitive taxes on the people of the state. He pointed out, the spate of taxation had affected all the people across all social and economic spheres and people were angry and disappointed.
He expressed hope and confidence that the opposition parties and leaders will come together in the interest of the people. He maintained that as on now there was no political agenda in getting together the political parties and the only purpose was to save the people of Punjab from a regime that is highly insensitive towards the public interest.
Capt Amarinder maintained that the taxes imposed by the state government were illegal since any financial matter needs the approval of the state legislature. He pointed out, they circumvented the legislative process by way of showing a “tax-free” budget while imposing heavy taxes on the people subsequently. He said, this was a total fraud with the people.
The former Chief Minister said, this was purely a short term measure of the state government and it cannot help revive the economy. He said, he had reports that the government was planning to mop up about Rs 9000 crores in taxes and this was just a beginning. He said, the statewide protests with participation by all the political parties was aimed at preventing the government from imposing further taxes while withdrawing the ones it had imposed.
He stated that such taxation will rather damage the economy as the industry will become less competitive. The result will be the industry will move out and there will be more problems for the economy.
Asked whether PPP Chief Manpreet Badal was trying to join the Congress and keen to contest as party candidate from Bathinda, Capt Amarinder said, Manpreet had never met him hence he was not in a position to comment.
To another question about the leadership issue, Capt Amarinder reiterated that it was the discretion and prerogative of the Congress President Ms Sonia Gandhi. He said, he decision will be acceptable to him and till the time he was the PCC president he will continue to work vigorously for the party.
He refused to comment on the activities of some party leaders who had held a meeting at Chandigarh yesterday. Asked whether he will take any action or recommend any action against them since they had breached the party discipline he said, he was not keen to recommend any action against anybody.
Capt Amarinder was today accompanied by senior party leaders and MLAs who included Mr Laal Singh, Rana Sodhi, Rana Gurjeet, OP Soni, Chaudhary Jagjeet, Bharat Bhushan Ashu, Mohd Sadique, Hardayal Kambhoj, Balbir Sidhu, Tript Rajinder Singh Bajwa, Amrik Dhillon, Ajaib Singh Bhatti, Charanjit Singh Channi, Kikki Dhillon, Fateh Jang Bajwa, Ajit Singh Shant, Joginder Singh Panjgraian, Surinder Gupta, Satbir Singh, Jugal Sharma and others.
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Panchayat's approval must for its elevation as Nagar panchayat -Chunni Lal Bhagat
Chandigarh, September 1:
Mr. Chunni Lal Bhagat Minister for Local Bodies today issued directions that only those Panchayats would be elevated as Nagar Panchayats that would meet the set norms and obtain the concerned Panchayat's approval.
Presiding over a meeting of the department to review the working of all Municipal Corporations, Municipal Committees and Panchayats, he categorically said that Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal has ordered to obtain the permission of concerned Panchayat before its elevation as Nagar Panchayat to check the unplanned expansion of urban sprawls.
While monitoring the working of the department he instructed the officers to continue development works and complete them in stipulated time period. He said that it was the duty of officers to monitor the quality of work being executed and any compromise over quality would not be tolerated. He also instructed them to spend the allotted budget in the given time frame. He ordered to chalk out a special campaign to remove the un authorized colonies in the state.
The Minister urged the officers to generate revenue through pligging the loopholes. He said that a gainful amount of revenue could be generated by the installation of hordings and putting up of advertisement on walls and important places of the respective towns. He said that before putting up any advertisement in the city officers must adhere to the set guidelines so that the city character and its beauty remain intact. He said that hoarding at the National Highways must not cause any hindrance to the traffic.
Prominent amongst other present in the meeting Mr. Som Parkash Chief Parliamentary Secretary, Mr. Suresh Kumar Principal Secretary, Mr. Ashok Gupta Director and Miss Khusboo Goyal Additional Secretary.
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NK SHARMA PROMISES TO MEET THE RESPONSIBILITY CONFERRED BY PARTY
· warm welcome at party Head office by office staff
Chandigarh, September 1
Shiromani Akali Dal Joint Secretary and newly appointed Treasurer Mr. N. K. Sharma today promised that he would do his best to meet the responsibilities conferred on him by the party.
Mr. Sharma said that he had started his political career as a village Sarpanch and it was the guidance of party President Mr. Sukhbir Singh that enabled him to effectively serve for people of the state and party at this young age. He said that party’ support helped him to achieve people love and faith in a short period. He said that administrative skill of party President had not only helped SAD-BJP alliance to creat history by repeating the government in the state but also put the state on the path of rapid development. He said that only a visit to party head office can give anybody an idea of his administrative skill. He said that he was impressed by the working of office administrative and media staff which was working as a bridge between party and the government besides strengthening the coordination between the party members.
Earlier, office staff gave a warm welcome to Mr. Sharma on his maiden visit to party head office after being nominated as Treasurer of the party. Familiarizing with the office staff, Mr. Sharma had a word of mouth with each. The members of office staff conveyed their regards to Mr. Sharma by offering sweets to him.
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Congress president will take final call on the leadership issue in Punjab: Avtar Brar, Darshan Singh Brar, Randip Singh Nabha
Chandigarh: 01-09-12
The three member committee formed to take the feedback from the senior leaders of the Punjab congress reiterated its stand that the final call on the issue of party president in Punjab will be taken by the congress president. The committee will talk to the senior leaders of Pradesh congress and submit a report of the feedback taken to the high command.
Avtar Brar, Darshan Singh Brar, Randip Singh Nabha in a joint statement issued here today clarified that however all the party leaders will participate in the programs issued by the PPCC. These programs are being organized to strengthen the party in the state so there is absolutely no point to boycott the given programs.
The committee will update the party high command about the current political issues of the state too
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Inauguration of NCC academy at Rupnagar
BADAL APPEALS ALL POLITICAL PARTIES TO REJECT THE POLITICS OF VENDETTA AND CONFRONTATION
CALLS FOR CONSENSUS POLITICS FOR THE WELFARE OF COUNTRY AND STATE
PALLAM RAJU ASSURES CM TO TAKE UP THE ISSUE OF RESTORATION OF RECRUITMENT IN ARMY ON CAPABILITY AND MERIT BASIS WITH UNION DEFENCE MINISTER
RUPRNAGAR SEPTEMBER 02:
Cutting across the political affiliations Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today called upon all the political parties to sink their differences and work in harmony for the overall development and prosperity of the country as well as state.
Addressing a massive gathering here after the inauguration of the Rs.9 crore NCC Academy over an area of 8 acre by the Minister of State for Defence Mr. MM Pallam Raju along with the Chief Minister, Mr. Badal said that it was the high time for all the political parties to discard the politics of vendetta and confrontation which must be replaced by the politics based on consensus as the divisive politics was absolutely meaningless and could not yield any tangible results for the growth of the state as well as the prosperity of its people.
The Chief Minister asked the political parties of different shades and opinions to come forward to work zealously especially the Congress in the process of development of Punjab right from the grass root level of village panchayat to the state government. He thanked Mr. Raju for offering an opportunity to all the major political parties viz.
Shiromani Akali Dal, BJP and Congress to share a common platform on this historic occasion, when two state-or-the-art NCC academies, first of its kind in the country has been dedicated to the nation adding in a lighter vein the Chief Minister urged Mr. Raju to visit Punjab quite often to keep this congenial political atmosphere intact.
On the occasion, the Chief Minister sought Mr. Raju’s personal intervention to impress upon the Union Ministry of Defence for reversing the existing criteria of recruitment in Armed forces, which was now being done on the basis of population to the earlier one based on the parameters of capability and merit to accommodate our youth.
He pointed out that our state had been adversely affected as there was a time when Punjabis dominated the defence services with majority say nearly 50% of soldiers from state besides the top brass. Punjab soldiers and farmers were known for their patriotism and enormous contribution in making our country self reliant in food production for which Punjab was aptly referred as ‘sword arm’ and ‘food bowl’ of
India. He said we the Punjabis have inherited the legacy of bravery
from Sri Guru Arjan Dev ji, Sri Guru Teg Bahadur ji and Sri Gobind Singh ji who made supreme sacrifices and the same tradition and spirit of gallantry was still alive even as today.
The Chief Minister also requested Mr. Raju to take up the issue of expeditious construction of the North Zone Service Selection Center, to be come up at Rupnagar for which a the state government had already provided a land of 200 acres.
Mr. Badal hoped that these NCC training academies at Ropar & Malout would prove to be a milestone in the history of NCC and would act as a catalyst to imbibe a spirit of bravery and patriotism amongst the
young cadets. He said that the NCC academy would exclusively impart
training to 3500 boy cadets.
With the opening of these academies around 55000 cadets from the state would be imparted training to enable them to join Army, Navy and Air force thereby brightening their prospects to choose defence services as their career.
In his address, Mr. MM Pallam Raju complimented the Punjab government who pioneered in establishing these NCC Academies in the country at the request of Defence Ministry. He said India was a young nation with nearly 55 million youth falling in this category. This potent force, in true terms, was our future. We need to ensure the growth of our youth by empowering them with skills and these skills have to be relevant to the emerging economic environment. He said that we would need to skill/upskill 500 million youth by 2022. This was a challenging task and would require fundamental education reform and enhancement of supplementary skill development. He apprised the Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh and set up National Skill Development Corporation to facilitate the development and upgrading of skills through Skill Training Program. Mr. Raju envisioned that NCC could play a major in inculcating the basic core values important for this workforce to be effective and productive which included the values enshrined in the motto of the NCC "Unity and Discipline".
Responding to the issues raised by the Chief Minister, Mr. Raju assured him that he would soon take up the matter of recruitment on the basis of capability and merit instead of population criteria with the union Defence Minister Mr. AK Antony besides ensuring the speedy completion of North Service Center at Rupnagar. The State Minister for Defence also informed Mr. Badal that he was alive to the problems of ex-servicemen, who constituted a sizeable chunk of state's population in Punjab and assured the best health care facilities besides post retirement employment opportunities to them to enable them to rehabilitate so that they could lead a life with dignity.
Prominent amongst others who were present on the occasion included Health & Family Welfare Minister Mr. Madan Mohan Mittal, MP Anandpur Sahib Mr. Ravneet Singh Bitu, leader of the Opposition in the Punjab Vidhan Sabha Mr. Sunil Jakhar, MLA Ropar Dr. Daljeet Singh Cheema, MLA Chamkaur Sahib Mr. Charanjit Singh Channi, former Minister Mrs.
Satwant Kaur Sandhu. Besides Director General NCC Lt. Gen. Mr. PS Bhalla and Additional Director General NCC Maj. Gen. PS Mander, Deputy Commissioner Mr. Pardeep Kumar Aggarwal and SSP Mr. Jatinder Singh Aulakh.
NCC boys and girls cadets from all over Punjab participated in the function and regaled the audience with horse riding skills, bhangra and gidha. Apart from these the function was largely attended by the people from different walks of life, senior leaders and party workers of SAD/BJP besides members of SGPC.
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