UPA GOVERNMENT ROOT CAUSE OF ALL ‘EVILS’-SUKHBIR BADAL

• REMODELLING OF IRRIGATION CHANNELS WOULD BE COMPLETED WITHIN A YEAR
• DEVELOPMENT WORKS RS. 88 CRORE LAUNCHED IN DISTRIC SANGRUR

 KHANAURI/MOONAK, NOVEMBER 22: Terming the Congress led UPA government root cause of all ‘evils’ including corruption, record inflation, scams, inefficient & ill-managed governance, the Deputy CM Punjab Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal today gave a clarion call to brush-aside world’s most-corrupt government after independence.

             The Deputy CM said that UPA has given a record scale to inflation putting essential commodities out from the reach of common masses. Adding further he said that presently the rates of fertilisers, medicines, cooking oils and pulses, onions, LPG, Petrol, Diesel etc was out of the reach of pocket of Aam-Aadmi while the Congress led UPA Government has been claiming for the last decade that it was Aam-Aadmi’s Government.

            Mr. Badal addressing a public gathering at Moonak after laying the foundation stones of Sewerage Treatment Plants at Khanauri, Moonak and Lehragaga and dedicating Railway Over Bridge at village Chhajli at a total cost of Rs. 88 crore said that Congress Government was looting country assets by both hands for the last decade, so this anti-people government should not get another chance.        

            Describing Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal ‘Father of all welfare and people oriented schemes’, the Deputy CM said that though the Congress ruled the state for more than 4 decades after independence but did nothing for the welfare of people. He said that including Shagun Scheme, Ashirwad Scheme, Atta-Daal, Scholarships to needy students, cycles to girl students etc was launched by the SAD-BJP Government.

             Assuring Mr. Sukhdev Singh Dhindsa, Member Rajya Sabha, the Deputy CM announced that remodelling and relining of irrigation channels in state would be done within a year besides installing underground pipes for irrigation purposes in Sangrur district.

             Interacting media, the Deputy CM said that the dream of making Punjab a Power Surplus state was on the edge of completion and the first phase would inaugurate on November 25 with the start of Talwandi Sabo Thermal Plant with a total cost of Rs. 11000 crore while Punjab was all set to inaugurate its second unit at Rajpura Thermal Plant on December 8. 

            Answering a query Mr. Badal said from November 25 the process of making new blue cards in the state to include the remaining genuine beneficiaries in the ambit of Atta-Daal scheme would be started and be completed within a month. He said that by the end of December 30 lakh approximate new beneficiaries would be getting atta-daal.

            On the question regarding PPCC Partap Singh Bajwa’s purchase of shamlat lands, Mr. Badal said that the Revenue Department was conducting an enquiry and the report would be out soon.

            When asked about Delhi Vidhan Sabha polls, Mr. Badal said that SAD would win all four seats and SAD leadership has reached Delhi to start the canvassing for its candidates from Saturday. He said that Arvind Kejriwal’s Aam Aadmi Party would have to face the same results, which had to face Manpreet Badal’s People’s Party of Punjab here.

            Mr. Sukhdev Singh Dhindsa, Member Rajya Sabha, Mr. Parminder Singh Dhindsa, Finance Minister and Mr. Sukhwant Singh Sarao, Constituency Incharge addressed the gathering.

            Finance Minister Mr. Dhindsa also accused the Congress led UPA Government for meted out discrimination with Punjab by providing it lesser share from the Central Grants as compare to other states. He said that Punjab was getting only 19 percent from Centre while the other state including Bihar, Uttar Pradesh etc were getting more than 50 and 70 percent respectively.

             Prominent amongst those were present included Sant Balbir Singh Ghunas, Chief Parliamentary Secretary, Mr. Sukhwant Singh Sarao, constituency in-charge, Mr. Rampal Singh Behniwal, SGPC Member and Ravinder Singh Cheema Vice Chairman Mandi Board, Punjab. 

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BADAL RULES OUT NEED FOR ANY JUDICIAL PROBE INTO DRUG HAUL CASE

ASKS AMARINDER TO DESIST FROM INTERFERING IN ONGOING INVESTIGATIVE PROCEEDINGS

CALLS UPON OFFICERS TO COMPLETE SURVEY FOR ASSESSING DAMAGE CAUSED TO HOUSE PROPERTY WITHIN A FORTNIGHT

HOLDS SANGAT DARSHAN IN GIDDERBAHA SEGMENT

Chak Gilzewala (Sri Muktsar Sahib), November 22-

            Out rightly rejecting the demand of Captain Amarinder Singh for seeking judicial probe in the drug racket case, the Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today categorically said that the Congress leaders including former Chief Minister should desist from making such demands which hampers the ongoing investigations conducted by the state Police.

            Interacting with the media persons on the sidelines of his Sangat Darshan program in Gidderbaha assembly segment here today, the Chief Minister said that the Punjab Police had unearthed this racket and was carrying out entire investigations meticulously from all angles with due diligence and deliberation. He said that the state government reposes complete faith in the functioning of Police and thus the Congress leaders should refrain from interfering with its day-to-day working thereby allowing the investigating agency to work independently so as to reach the bottom of the case. Mr. Badal said that he would not make any further comment on the ongoing probe as it would affect its proceedings and assured the law of the land would take its own course and all the guilty involved in the recent drug seizure would be dealt with severely.

            Earlier in his address, the Chief Minister, while expressing deep concern over the extensive damage caused to crops and especially the house property due to floods during last monsoon, said that the state government was committed for lending a helping hand to the sufferers of this grave natural tragedy. He asked the officers to ensure that the survey regarding the damaged houses in the area was completed within a fortnight so that adequate compensation could be given to the aggrieved families. Mr. Badal cautioned the officers that any laxity in this work on their part would not be tolerated at any cost.

            Squarely blaming the Congress led UPA government at the centre for breaking the backbone of the farmers, the Chief Minister said that due to the anti farmer's stance of the Union government the agriculture was no longer a profitable venture. Exhorting the farmers to adopt allied agriculture activities, Mr. Badal said that it would not only help in supplementing their income but also be instrumental in bailing them out from the current agrarian crisis. He said that the state government had already taken path breaking initiatives to undertake crop diversification and allied agriculture activities for saving the beleaguered peasantry of the state.

            The Chief Minister also underscored the need for making use of agriculture implement and machinery on custom hire basis from the village based agriculture cooperative societies instead of incurring heavy expenditure on its purchase, which would further squeeze their margins of profitability. He said that the state government was already granting huge subsidies to the Agriculture Cooperative societies to promote the utilization of latest agriculture equipment at nominal charges amongst the farmers.

            Striking an emotional chord with the people, the Chief Minister said that the land of Gidderbaha was sacred to him as he had started his political career from this place. Mr. Badal said that he was personally indebted to every person from each village of this assembly segment as they have supported him enormously throughout his political career. "Thus it is incumbent on my part to leave no stone unturned for ensuring the overall development of this place" he added.

            On the occasion the Chief Minister also honored the Akali workers village Shekh, Mania wala, Smagh, Gilzewala, Khuanan Kkurad, Kothe Surgapuri, Chak Gilzewal, Duhe wala and Doda, who were lodged in jails with him during various Akali agitations.

            The Chief Minister was accompanied by Lok Sabha MP Mrs. Paramjeet Kaur Gulshan, Chairman District Planning Committee Sri Muktsar Sahib Mr. Hardeep Singh Dimpi Dhillon, SGPC Member Jathedar Navtej Singh Kauni and his Special Principal Secretary Mr. KJS Cheema. 

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            GURDASS MANN ENTHRALLED THE AUDIENCE ON PUNJAB DAY

PUNJAB PAVILION HIGHLIGHITING “SHINING PUNJAB” AT IITF DELHI 

 Chandigarh, November 22:

The festivity of ‘PUNJAB DAY’ was the centre of attraction at the Punjab Pavilion in 33rd India International Trade Fair, 2013 at Pragati Maidan, New Delhi last night.  

  Divulging the details here today a Spokesman of the Punjab Government said that a Cultural evening was organized by the Punjab Small Industries & Export Corporation Limited, Chandigarh, where renowned Punjabi Singer Gurdas Mann enthralled the large number of audience with his popular songs. The audience swayed with the pulsating rhythm of the folk. 

He further said that the Chief Guest present on the occasion was Mr. Madan Mohan Mittal, Industries & Commerce Minister, Punjab. Mr. N.K Sharma, Chief Parliamentary Secretary was the guest of Honour. They also took the round of Punjab pavilion.

The Spokesperson said that the entrance reception area has a creative 3D- Mural based on the inclusive growth and showcases ProgressivePunjab as Holistic units. He said that En-route Umbrella 1 to Umbrella 2, highlights of “ENGAGING YOUTH THROUGH SPORTS” via graphic wall is projected as state’s initiative in above pursuit.SHINING PUNJAB visual is self explanatory of Growth in State.  

The further said that in Umbrella 2 the highlights are, Science & Technology, Punjab Agricultural University, Punjab Agro, Punjab Mandi Board, Milkfed, Markfed. Extensive display work of Vibrant Industry of Punjab is showcased. “Visitors also have opportunity to buy the traditional handicrafts items from various stalls in Pavilion. The stalls are given at concessional rates to Punjab Craftsmen most of them are National and State Awardees” he added.  Pavilion is conceptualized and executed by PSIEC (Punjab small Industries & Export Corporation Ltd) promoting small scale industry to grow in Punjab.

The other eminent guests present were Mr.Vikas Pratap, IAS, Secretary and Director of Industries, Punjab and Mr. Yashvir Mahajan, IAS, Managing Director, PSIEC Ltd., Chandigarh.

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PUNJAB TO CONDUCT SURVEY OF ROAD BRIDGES WITHIN A WEEK: DHILLON

        MINISTER HOLDS EMERGENCY MEETING OF THE DEPARTMENT

        INSTRUCTS TO ENSURE REPAIR OF BRIDGES BY 31 DECEMBER

CHANDIGARH, NOVEMBER 22: Punjab to conduct a survey of bridges on roads within a week and all necessary steps would be taken to ensure the safety of people on roads.

            Punjab Public Works Minister Mr. Sharanjit Singh Dhillon after a meeting with the senior officials of the department has directed to ensure the repair work of all the bridges by 31st December.

Taking a serious note of the incident of non availability of railing on a bridge in Amritsar District due to which 10 people lost their lives few days back minister said that that bridge on which this accident took place was not under the PWD Department but was built by the people of the area and other religious organisations. He said that this bridge was only 10 feet wide and railing was destroyed by combine harvesters to pass their combines.

Mr. Dhillonn said that strict instructions have been issued to the officials to conduct a survey of all the road bridges which comes under the preview of the PWD department and report the weak safety points. He added that all repair works on such bridges should be done by December 31 and all necessary measures should be taken to ensure the safety of the people.

             He directed the officials to ensure proper sign boards and reflectors and small speed breakers on the roads near the bridges which should be placed at proper visibility. He also said that that no bridge under the jurisdiction of Public Works Department shall be without railing in the next two months.

            The Minister said that officials should ensure the widening of bridges where roads are being widened and no laxity at any level would be tolerated. Others prominent present in the meeting were Mr. Sehajpreet Singh Mangat OSD to PWD Minister and chief engineers of the department. 

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CBI SPECIAL COURT CONVICTS THREE ACCUSED IN 15 YEAR OLD FORGERY CASE

FIRST CASE TO RECORD WITNESS STATEMENT

THROUGH INTERNATIONAL VIDEO CONFERENCING 

CHANDIGARH, NOVEMBER 22:

Three accused have been convicted by the CBI Special Judge Kanwaljit Singh Bajwa in a 15 year old forgery case whereby the Rajpura Branch of State Bank of India was duped off `2.60 Crores.  They were sentenced under IPC 420 5 years RI and  30,000 fine (ID 3 months), under IPC 467     7 years RI and 1 Lakh fine (ID 1 Year), under IPC 468 3 years RI and      20,000 fine (ID 3 months), under IPC 471 7 years RI and 1 Lakh fine (ID 1 Year). The case may be termed as the first of its kind in the region wherein the deposition of the main witness was recorded through video conferencing by the Court as he was residing in Dubai and was not able to come to India for getting recorded his statement  

A Spokesperson of Punjab and Haryana High Court informed that as per the story, Parasram Daryani was residing in Dubai and had deposited about 13 lakh US dollars in FDRs in Rajpura Branch of the State Bank of India.  The accused in conspiracy with each other as well as the then manager of the SBI Rajpura, forged authority letters of Parasram Daryani for raising loan against these FDRs and also prepared other documents for this purpose by forging signatures of Parasram Daryani and his wife Neelam Daryani. The conspiracy came to surface when Parasram Daryani enquired from the bank that he has not received the FDRs even after passing of two months. Then the bank had held an enquiry in which it was found that the main accused alongwith the then bank manager, one CA Rajinder Kapoor and one expert of forging signatures Anurag Bawa had forged the documents for getting loan of ₹2.60 crores. The case had hit the headlines of newspapers due to the high amount involved in it and also became high profile as it had its tentacles at international level.

He said that the case revealed as to how the secret messages were decoded in order to favour the accused in connivance with the bank officials who flouted all the norms of banking law and practice.  It is noteworthy that the bank had to pay back the amount of FDRs to its depositor Parasram Daryani as it had no other option left to save its face in the international banking fraternity. 

The Court of CBI Special Judge Kanwaljit Singh Bajwa has held all the three accused guilty of cheating and forgery etc., (two accused out of total five had already expired) while opining that “the cause of the community cannot be treated with disdain. The entire nation is aggrieved if economic offenders who ruin the economy of the state are not brought to book. A murder may be committed in the heat of moment upon passions being aroused. On the contrary an economic offence is always committed with cool calculation and deliberate architect & design which is engineered with an eye on personal profits regardless of the consequence to the Community. Unfortunately in the last few years, the country has seen an alarming rise in white-collar crimes which has affected the fabric of the country's economic structure. These cases are nothing but private gains at the cost of public leading to economic disaster”

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Nov 20, 2013

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• Narendra Modi surpasses Bollywood actors and actresses - Grewal 
• National Coordinator Iron Collection committee is mobilizing public in respect STATUE OF UNITY- Grewal.......READ

CM CONSTITUTES THREE-MEMBER PANEL FOR RETRIEVAL OF ENCROACHED SHAMLAAT LAND TO THE VILLAGE PANCHAYATS IN MOHALI DISTRICT

COMMITTEE ASKED TO SUBMIT ITS FIRST REPORT BY DECEMBER 31, 2013

REITERATES PUNJAB GOVERNMENT’S COMMITMENT TO RESTORE ALL SHAMLAAT LANDS UNDER UNLAWFUL POSSESSION TO THE PANCHAYATS ACROSS THE STATE

Chandigarh, November 21,2013

          Reiterating his firm resolve to safeguard the rights of the villagers by restoring the shamlaat lands to the village Panchayats in the state, the Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today constituted a three member committee to ascertain the actual position with regard to such lands in Mohali district and initiate legal action against anyone found to be in unlawful possession of such lands.  The Committee has been asked to submit its initial report by December 31, 2013.

          Disclosing this here today a spokesperson of the Chief Minister’s Office said that several instances of unlawful possession of such lands in Mohali district by some persons has came to the notice of the state government and the Chief Minister’s decision comes in the wake of such inputs. Taking serious view of this situation, Mr. Badal has constituted this panel comprising Director Rural Development and Panchayats Dr. SK Raju, Special Secretary Revenue Mr. SS Khara and District Revenue Officer Mohali Mr. Rohit Gupta. It may be recalled that the Tribunal set up by the Punjab and Haryana High Court, headed by Justice (Retd.) Kuldeep Singh had submitted a report in this regard. The Committee set up by the Chief Minister would go even beyond the ambit of findings of this Tribunal.  

The Committee has been mandated to examine the cases, firstly in respect of villages regarding which the Justice Kuldeep Singh Tribunal has given its reports and secondly in respect of other villages in the district. The terms of reference in first case would be to initiate appropriate action in accordance with the law to rectify the irregularities that have been identified by the tribunal so that the lands which have been wrongfully distributed amongst the private persons could be retrieved to the panchayats. Likewise in second case the committee had been asked to prepare village-wise inventory of panchayat lands in Mohali district and to ascertain the current status of this land in terms of both government record and actual position on the spot. Apart from this the committee would also identify persons who have usurped Panchayat land through various means and also suggest measures for retrieving such Panchayat lands. 

The Chief Minister unequivocally said that the state government was duty bound to retrieve all such encroached shamlaat lands to the respective village Panchayats across the state to ensure the judicious utilization of these lands for the overall development of the villages besides welfare and prosperity of its people.      

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Sukhbir expresses grief over the demise of hockey coach Inderjeet Singh Gill

Chandigarh, November 21

          The Deputy Chief Minister of Punjab, Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal, who is also holding the charge of Sports Minister and President of Hockey Association Punjab, has expressed deep grief over the sad and untimely demise of Women Hockey team coach Mr. Inderjeet Singh Gill. Mr. Gill died in a road accident near Sangrur on last evening.

          Recalling the outstanding services rendered by Mr. Gill as a coach, Mr. Badal said that “he was the main pillar behind the success of Indian hockey at international level as he trained world class players like, Deepak Thakur, Prabhjot Singh, Sandeep Singh and goal keeper Kamaljeet Singh”. Mr Badal prayed to the Almighty to grant peace to the departed soul and give strength to the family to bear this irreparable loss.

          Meanwhile Public Relations Minister Mr. Bikram Singh Majithia, Finance Minister Mr. Parminder Singh Dhindsa, MP and President of Punjab Olympic Association Mr. Sukhdev Singh Dhindsa have also expressed grief over the untimely death of Mr. Inderjeet Singh Gill.              

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 14 NATIONS OF ALL 6 CONTINENTS TO VIE FOR RS.6.67 CRORE PRIZE MONEY OF 4TH WORLD CUP KABADDI

 ·        PAKISTAN’S WOMAN TEAM IS NEW ENTRANT

·        12 MEN AND 8 WOMEN TEAMS TO LOCK HORNS FOR THE TITLE

·        OPENING AT BATHINDA ON NOVEMBER 30 AND CLOSING CEREMONY AT LUDHIANA ON DECEMBER 14

 CHANDIGARH, NOVEMBER 21:

          After the successful conduction of three editions of the Kabaddi World Cup (Circle Style), the Punjab Government’s Department of Sports is all set to organize 4th World Cup Kabaddi (WCK-2013) from November 30 to December 14, 2013. In this edition, 12 international teams in men and 8 teams in women Section would lock their horns for the coveted title. It was disclosed by an official spokesperson of the government in a press communiqué released here today.

          He said that the prize money for the women title in WCK-2013 has been raised four times as compare to the first edition. However, the prize money in the men section would remain the same as Rs.2 crore to winner team. Second and third position holder teams would take home the prize money of Rs.1 crore and Rs.51 lacs respectively. Now, the winner team in women section will take home prize money of Rs.1 crore, while second position holder team would get Rs.51 lacs and the third position holder team would be given Rs.25 lacs.

          The spokesperson further added that teams from India, Pakistan, Iran, England, Spain, Denmark, Scotland, USA, Canada, Argentina, Sierra Leon and Kenya would participate in men section, whereas in women section teams from India, Pakistan, England, Denmark, USA, Mexico, Kenya and New Zealand would participate.

          The Opening Ceremony of the event will be held at Multipurpose Stadium, Bathinda on November 30, 2013, whereas final of men section and closing ceremony will take place at Guru Nanak Stadium, Ludhiana on December 14, 2013. The semi finals matches of both sections would be held at Bathinda on December 11, 2013. The matches for the 3rdand 4th places of both sections and women finals would be held at Jalandhar on December 13, 2013.

          He mentioned that the league matches will be played at Patiala, Chohla Sahib, Hoshiarpur, Gurdaspur, Doda, Amritsar, Jalalabad, Sangrur, Roopnagar and Mansa. He informed that to facilitate the public, the match venue have been scattered over 13 places throughout the state. The semi-finals, finals, opening and closing ceremonies and matches at Bathinda, Jalandhar, Gurdaspur, Amritsar, Patiala and Ludhiana would be conducted under flood lights.

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Maluka to inaugurate Punjabi week from Mohali

CHANDIGARH, 21 November:

Punjab Government has decided to organize 'Punjabi Saptah' from November 22, with an aim to promote the Punjabi language.

According to the spokesman of Punjab Government, Punjab Education Minister Mr Sikandhar Singh Maluka would be the Chief Guest on the inaugural function. Function would take place at Mohali. He further mentioned that Language Department organizes Punjabi Saptah annually.

He further said that Dr. Jaspal Singh, Vice Chancellor of Punjabi University, Patiala would preside over the function and Dr. Gurbachan Singh Rahi would deliver the key note address highlighting the importance of Punjabi Language.

He said that the Punjab Government was fully committed to promote Punjabi Language and has issued guidelines to use Punjabi Language in all its offices, Schools as per the Law passed in state earlier.

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PUNJAB GOVT. INVITES ONLINE APPLICATION FOR TET TEST TILL DECEMBER 16

 Chandigarh November 21, 2013

          The Punjab Government has invited online applications for Punjab State Teacher Eligibility test by December 16, 2013 to be held on December 28, 2013.

          Disclosing this here today an official spokesman of Punjab Government said that online registration process has been started and would continue till December 10, 2013. He also said that forms could be submitted on December 16, 2013, after this no forms would be entertained.

          Clarifying further the spokesman said that this eligibility test is mandatory for Teacher Teaching classes 1 to 8th. The Candidates can upload their admit cards online on December 18, 2013.

          He further said that candidates appearing in the final year/semester of qualifying exam or equivalent qualification would also be eligible for appearing in PSTET. Further information would also available on department website www.tetpunjab.com.

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Punjab nominates 28 non official members of Ferozepur Grievances Redressal Committee

Chandigarh, November 21

Punjab Government has nominated non-official members of  District Redressal Grievances Committee of District Ferozepur. A notification has already been issued in this regard.

Disclosing  this here today  a spokesman of the Redressal of Grievances  department said that 28 non official have been nominated from recognized political parties and communities of District Ferozepur.

He said that amongst the nominated non official members were Sh. Navneet Kumar Sharma representative of Ferozepur MP Sh. Sher Ghubhai;  Sh. Lakhvinder Singh representative of MP Khadoor Sahib Sh. Rattan Singh; Master Gurnam Singh from SAD (B); Sh. Gulshan Rai Moga from INC Party; Sh. Jugraj Singh Katora from BJP;  Sh. Sukhdev Singh Sira from BSP; Comrade Kuldip Singh from Bhartyia Communist Party (M); Sh. Darshan Singh from Communist Party of India; Sh. Hindpal Singh from Nationalist Congress Party; Sh. jabarjand Singh from Freedom Fighter; Subedar Jagga Singh from Ex-Servicemen; Sh. Ashok Shama from Backward Classess; Sh. Jorawar Singh from Scheduled Caste; Sh. Santokh Singh from Youth category; Smt. Amanjot from Women Category; Sh. Tilak Raj from Rai Sikh; Sh. Kartar Singh from Kamboj Category; Sh. Karamdin from Muslim; Sh. Atrash from Christian; Sh. Naginder Singh from Social Service; Sh. Sanjeev Dhingra from Business category; Sh. Nand Kishore from Industry; Sh. Kuldip Singh from Agriculture; Sh. Mohinder Singh from Nambardar; Sh. Harcharan Singh from BKU; Representative of NRI Sh. Gurbachan Singh; Sh. Om ParkashBani Lal  from Balmiki and Capt. Swaran Singh from Mazbi Sikh.

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SANGRUR LEADS IN PADDY PROCUREMENT

·         12603955 TONNES PADDY PROCURED IN PUNJAB

CHANDIGARH, NOVEMBER 21: The Government agencies and private millers procured more than 12603955 tonnes of Paddy till last evening.

Out of total procurement of 12603955 tonnes of paddy in all the procurement centers of Punjab, the Government agencies procured 11979410 tonnes of paddy (95.0%) till date whereas private traders procured 624545 tonnes (5.0%) of paddy. Till November 20, PUNGRAIN had procured 3649775 tonnes (30.5%) whereas MARKFED procured 2789139 tonnes (23.3%). PUNSUP procured 2688858 tonnes (22.4%), PSWC procured 1170272 tonnes (9.8%) whereas PAFC was able to procure 1223000 tonnes (10.2%) of paddy. The Central Government agency FCI had been able to procure 458366 tonnes (3.8%). 

            The spokesperson added that District Sangrur with 1549064 tonnes of procurement was leading in procurement operations whereas District Ludhiana with 1473573 tonnes of procurement was at second slot and district Patiala 1208746 tonnes of procurement ranked at third position.   

 

BADAL SEEKS TECHNICAL SUPPORT FROM WB EXPERTS FOR PERMANENT RESOLUTION OF WATER LOGGING
 ·       CONGRESS LEADERSHIP JUST LIMITED TO BASELESS STATEMENTS
·       ASKS BHATTAL TO DESIST FROM ISSUING STATEMENTS WITHOUT VERIFICATION OF FACTS
·       PUNJAB WOULD SOON BECOME A POWER SURPLUS STATE
·       CALLS UPON FARMERS TO ADOPT ALLIED FARMING  

BHAI KA KERA (SRI MUKTSAR SAHIB) NOVEMBER 20:
          Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today sought technical support from the experts of World Bank (WB) to save the people from the furry of floods besides permanently solving the problem of water logging in the area on the top priority. 
            Talking to the media persons on the first day of his 3-day Sangat Darshan program, Mr. Badal said that the 6-member WB delegation led the task team leader Mr. Srinivasa Rao Podi P Reddy met him yesterday at Patiala to apprise him about the progress of the ongoing WB project on potable drinking water and sanitation in the state.  The Chief Minister asked the WB mission to help the state in suggesting a time tested technology to bail out the people of this belt, who had suffered extensive damage to their crops and house property due to heavy rains during last monsoon.  Mr. Badal pointed out that the state government had already submitted a comprehensive proposal of Rs.3327.57 crore to the Planning Commission of India for effective eradication of the problem of water logging besides resolving the major problem of swiftly depleting water table in the southern districts of the state. 
            Slamming the former Chief Minister and senior Congress leader Smt. Rajinder Kaur Bhattal for poor financial condition of the state, Mr. Badal said that Congress leadership was left with no other option except indulging in either mudslinging or finding faults with the state government.  He said that how a state with poor finances could manage to provide subsidized Atta-Dal to 15.40 lakh families which had now been doubled.  Likewise, Punjab would soon become a power surplus state in the near future which could only be feasible due to the visionary approach of the state government and thus he advised these leaders to desist from making irresponsible statements without verifying the facts and moreover such callous attitude does not behoove of a leader having stature of Mrs. Bhattal. 
            Reiterating his firm commitment to make Punjab free from the slur of drugs and narcotics, Mr. Badal further said that the unscrupulous and anti-social elements indulging in such unlawful activities would not be spared at any cost.  Squarely blaming the Congress led UPA government at Centre which had blatantly failed to check the cross border smuggling of drugs and warranted far more stringent steps to be initiated by it in terms of intensifying the patrolling at the international border so that this malpractice must be brought to an end for the larger public interest.    
            The Chief Minister further said that the land which was not fit for normal cultivation due to water logging would be utilized for fish farms and the state government would offer 30% as subsidy to encourage fish farming in the region.Likewise, the forest department would bear the entire cost of nurturing the poplar and eucalyptus plants for one year to encourage the farmers for opting agro forestry as a step towards the promotion diversification of agriculture.  He blamed the Centre for the anti-farmer policies which had rendered agriculture as non-remunerative profession because Centre was exercising entire control over all the policy decisions related to farming sector like fixation of prices, determination of agriculture costs and inputs thus putting the beleaguered peasantry in a tight spot.
            Calling upon the farmers to adopt allied farming like honey-bee, fisheries and other related agriculture practices, Mr. Badal said that the state government would provide all possible assistance in this regard.    
            Patting the students of village Phulo Khera, Bhai Ka Kera and Dabwali Malko Ki who secured 80% or above marks in 10th class, Mr. Badal gave away cash prize of Rs.5000 each to them.  He informed such bright students would now be entitled for scholarship of Rs.2500 per month or Rs.30000 per year under the recently launched Hargobind Khurana Scholarship Scheme.  He said that the arrears of scholarship to the tune of Rs.7500 for the first quarter had been credited to the bank accounts of the students.  Mr. Badal also mentioned that six new model schools at Bathinda, Amritsar, Ludhiana, Patiala, Jalandhar and Mohali would be opened where the students would be provided with the facilities of education and boarding free of cost. 
            The Chief Minister listened to the grievances of the panchayats of village Fatehpur Manian, Phulo Khera, Arniwala Wazira, Bhai Ka kera, Baloch Khera, Mahani Khera, Kangan Khera and Dabwali Malko during the Sangat Darshan and asked the concerned officer to immediately initiate action for the quick redressal of their complaints. 
            The Chief Minister was accompanied by his Special Principal Secretary Mr. KJS Cheema, Chief Engineer Canals Mr. AS Dulat, Director Agriculture Dr. Mangal Singh Sandhu, Deputy Commissioner Muktsar Mr. Paramjit Singh and SSP Mr. Surjit Singh.   
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PUNJAB GOVT. TO POSE SECOND WB AIDED PROJECT WORTH Rs. 2000 CRORE FOR LAYING SEWERAGE IN 1000 VILLAGES
WB MISSION LAUDS PUNJAB FOR SUPERB PERFORMANCE IN IMPLEMENTING WATER SUPPLY & SANITATION SCHEMES
PUNJAB THE ONLY STATE TO RUN 23 WATER SUPPLY SCHEMES WITH 24X7 WATER SUPPLY
CM SEEKS TECHNICAL SUPPORT FROM WB TEAM TO ENSURE SURFACE WATER SUPPLY FOR DRINKING IN LUDHIANA AND AMRITSAR
CHANDIGARH NOVEMBER 20:
            In a bid to ensure adequate quality potable drinking water supply and total sanitation in the villages across the state, the Punjab Government would soon pose a comprehensive second World Bank aided project worth Rs. 2000 crore to the Ministry of Finance, GoI for laying sewerage system in 1000 villages besides augmentation of rural drinking water supply in 800 villages to 70 litre per captia per day (lpcd).
A decision to this effect was taken by the Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal during a high level wrap up meeting held at Patiala on Tuesday evening with the six-member World Bank delegation led by its senior Water & Sanitation Specialist & Task Team leader Mr. Srinivasa Rao Podi Pi Reddy.
The Chief Minister also sought additional funds from the WB team for the up-gradation of damaged water supply schemes in water logged areas of the state for which the WB mission responded in positive to look into their demand of extra funds in this regard.
Taking part in the deliberations, the Principal Secretary Water Supply and Sanitation Mr. Suresh Kumar informed the Chief Minister that under the second WB project on the water supply and sanitation alternate water supply arrangements for 250 quality affected villages would be made with installation of RO plants or latest interventions besides performance and service improvement would also be made in 1000 villages with addition/replacement of certain components of water supply schemes and remodelling and cleaning of all village ponds. A State level Training & Research Institute was also be established for intensifying Information, Education and Communication (IEC) and capacity building activities upon which progress of sector wide approach was wholly dependent.   
It may be recalled the WB delegation which was on 10 days visit to Punjab to review the progress of Rs.1280 crore World Bank aided Rural Water Supply & Sanitation Project. The mission visited all the 116 villages covering 22 districts under the WB Water Supply & Sanitation Project.
Highly appreciating the progress of the project, the team task leader Mr. Srinivasa apprised the Chief Minister that Punjab has really proved to be a role model for other states and it was far ahead of Maharashtra, Karnataka, and Andhra Pradesh where this project was also being implemented progressively. He further said that Punjab was the only state in the country that has been able to run 23 water supply schemes with 24x7 water supplies through high degree of awareness with installation of water meters. He said the World Bank mission observed during its field visit that there was a strong demand for providing water meters in the villages so that poor people consuming less water were benefitted with metering by paying less for water consumption. Likewise, Punjab was also pioneer in this project wherein 603 villages having 100% private connections and all such villages were financially sustaining for operation and maintenance for expenditure like hiring of a pump operator, payment of electricity bill as well as repairs etc. without any help from the state Govt. All the works targeted for completion in this World Bank aided project closing in Dec., 2014 stand awarded and state was likely to exceed target of progress from 20 to 30% which was exceptionally rare in World Bank Aided Rural Project. The WB team also informed the Chief Minister that Punjab was the lone state where 98 villages were being provided with piped sewerage system and progress of works was quite satisfactory. All these villages were likely to avail sewerage connections with a next six months. However, the Task Team Leader requested the Chief Minister to help the poor house holds in these villages for aiding them construction of a septic tank in their houses for connection to the sold free sewerage system. The WB mission also observed that the Punjab may be only state where all Not Covered (NC) villages would be covered prior to end of the project i.e. Dec 2014 by fully covering all the remaining villages and resultantly all the 15170 habitations would be fully covered. Moreover state would be able to fully utilize the World Bank Aided in time as per World Bank guidelines.
Meanwhile, the Chief Minister also asked the WB task team leader to work out the modalities thereby recommending the state government a suitable technology for effective, liquid and solid waste management besides bailing out the state in cleaning the village ponds, which had posed a major health hazard to the rural population.  He also solicited technical support from the WB team for disposal of sullage in the villages, which was a major problem in the way to ensure clean and pollution free environment.  Mr. Badal sought technical help from WB team to explore ways and means to provide safe drinking water in the corporation cities of Ludhiana and Amritsar on the basis of their expertise and vast experience. Mr. Reddy told the Chief Minister that a study was being done by the expert in this regard to suggest a viable technology for making optimum utilization of surface water for drinking purpose in these cities and the report was expected in two months.
Prominent amongst others who attended the meeting included Principal Secretary Water Supply & Sanitation Mr. Suresh Kumar, Special Principal Secretaries to Chief Minister Mr. Gaggandip Singh Brar and Mr. Ajoy Sharma, Commissioner Patiala Division Mr. AS Pannu, Program Director WB project Punjab Mr. Ashwani Soni, Chief Technical Coordinator Mr. SR Aggarwal besides the Chief Engineers of Punjab Water Supply & Sanitation department.  The WB team included Procurement Specialist Joseph Shine, Institution Development Specialist Manish Kumar, Community Specialist Mrs. Vandana and Consultant Dr. BKD Raja. 
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ARMED FORCES FLAG DAY OBSERVED ONDECEMBER 6

Chandigarh,  November 20:
          Armed forces flag day would be observed on6th December , 2013 instead of December 7, 2013  to pay tributes to  all those known and un-known soldiers who sacrificed their lives  guarding the frontiers of our country.
          According to an official spokesman this day is observed to salute the velour of Soldiers both serving and veterans, who fought for unity and integrity & sovereignty.
          The spokesman appealed to the public to contribute liberally for armed forces flag day fund. The ceremonial pinning of Flags on VIPs and all citizens of India would take place on 6th December, 2013. All Departments and the District Administration would give a lead in honouring the soldiers and in pinning Flags on students and citizens.
           The spokesman further said that the Financial contributions were to be collected by the Department/District Administrations in honour of the Flag. These funds are utilized for a number of welfare programmes instituted by the Kendriya and Rajya Sainik Boards. the contributions provide benefits to widows, disabled soldiers, ex-servicemen and  serving  personnel. The total number of people who would be benefited by this fund was  over a crore.  The contributions to the Armed Forces Flag Day Fund are exempted from the Income Tax as per Government of India, Ministry of Finance (Revenue Division), New Delhi dated 26 March, 2007.
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DELAY IN PAYMENT TO FARMERS AND ARTHIAS DUE TO GOI’S CALLOUS APPROACH: D S GREWAL
CHANDIGARH, NOVEMBER 20:
            The delay in the payment for the procurement of paddy to the Farmers and Middle man (Arthia) was due to the want of essential financial approval by the union Government.
            Disclosing this here today Mr. D S Grewal, Secretary, food and civil supplies Department, Punjab said that the in spite of this the Punjab government got the desired approval from the Reserve Bank of India and payment to the Farmers and middle man (Arthia) was made within 24 hours through KISSAN ARTHIA INFORMATION & REMITTANCE ONLINE NETWORK. He said that the repeated efforts of the Punjab Government borne fruit when the union government was forced to give sanction to release payment on 19 November, 2013.
            He said that all the concerned banks have been requested to make the payments by today evening.
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BADAL OKAYS NEW VETERINARY SCIENCE COLLEGE AT RAMPURA PHUL

IMPRESSES UPON TO STRENGTHEN VETERINARY EDUCATION

ASKS GADVASU TO INITIATE NEW SHORT TERM COURSES  

 CHANDIGARH, NOVEMBER 18-

            Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today gave approval to establish a new College of Veterinary Science and a Veterinary hospital along with Livestock Farm Complex at Rampura Phul in Bathinda district over an area of 25 hectares through Guru Angad Dev Veterinary & Animal Sciences University (GADVASU).

         A decision to this effect was taken by Mr. Badal during a meeting with the senior officers of the Animal Husbandry Dairy development & Fisheries department. Principal Secretary, Animal Husbandry Dairy development & Fisheries apprised the Chief Minister that this College and Hospital would be built over 5 acres of land besides other related facilities. He further informed that GADVASU would undertake the entire project.

            Emphasising the dire need to strengthen Veterinary education as well as generating more employment opportunities for the youth especially in rural sector, Mr. Badal asked the Vice Chancellor GADVASU to prepare a comprehensive plan to initiate new short term diploma courses for this new College, besides the regular degree course of B.V.Sc. & AH.       

          Prominent amongst those present in the meeting included Education Minister Mr. Sikander Singh Maluka, Financial Commissioner Forest Mr. DS Bains, Principal Secretary Animal Husbandry Dairy development & Fisheries Mr. G Vajralingam, Advisor to Animal Husbandry Dairy development & Fisheries Punjab Dr. Prem Kumar Uppal,    Special Principal Secretary to CM Mr. Ajoy Kumar Sharma, Director Animal Husbandry Dr. HS Sandha, Vice Chancellor GADVASU Dr. Vijay Kumar Taneja and Director Fisheries Mr. BK Sood.

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CM, Dy. CM & MAJITHIA MOURN DEMISE OF EMINENT PUNJABI PLAYWRIGHT DR. CHARAN DASS SIDHU

CHANDIGARH, NOVEMBER 18: Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal and Deputy Chief Minister Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal today mourned the demise of prominent Punjabi playwright Dr. Charandass Sidhu (75), a unique icon of Punjabi plays. Noted playwright Dr. Sidhu passed away in Delhi after a prolonged illness. He was survived by wife and five daughters.

          Recalling the contribution of Dr. Sidhu, who was born on March 14, 1938 at village Bham of Hoshiarpur district, in the field Punjabi theatre, Mr. Badal and Mr. Sukhbir said that Dr. Sidhu would always be remembered for his everlasting contribution in the field of Punjabi plays as he wrote 37 plays. They said that Dr. Sidhu has created unique identity in the field of writing Punjabi plays, which were got acclamation in all spheres. Dr. Sidhu had been awarded with Sahitya Akadmi, Bharti Sangeet Natak Akademi along with many other awards for his thoughtful plays.

          Sharing heartfelt sympathies with the bereaved family, both Chief Minister & Deputy Chief Minister prayed to the Almighty to grant peace to the departed soul and strength to the family members to bear this irreparable loss.

          Meanwhile, the Information & Public Relations Minister Mr. Bikram Singh Majithia also condoled the passing away of Dr. Sidhu.

          It is pertinent to mention here that Dr. Sidhu is father-in-law of Mr. Ravindra Narayan, CEO of PTC Channel. 

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STATE LEVEL ADMINISTRATIVE COMMITTEE CONSTITUTES

 CHANDIGARH, NOVEMBER 18

Punjab Government has constituted a State level Administrative Committee under the chairmanship of Deputy Commissioner Sri Muktsar Sahib to oversee  pre-arrangements for National Livestock Championship-2014. Deputy Commissioner will preside over a meeting of committee on 20-11-2013 at        district Administrative Complex Sri Muktsar Sahib..

          Disclosing this here today a spokesman of the Punjab Government said that Director, Animal Husbandry would be its Member Secretary.  He further said that Representative from the office of  Director, General Of  Police-cum- Director, Punjab Police Academy, Phillaur ; Representative from the office of Additional Director General of Police, PAP, Jalandhar Cantt ; Representative of  Vice Chancellor GADVASU, Ludhiana; Director, Rural Development and Panchayats Department; Director Dairy Development; Director, Fisheries; Director, Sports; Director, Youth Services; Director Public Relations; Joint Director, Animal Husbandry; SSP Muktsar; Principal Kirpal Sagar, Academy Rahon and Principal Punjab Public School Nabha would be the members of the committee.

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PUNJAB DAY BE CELEBRATED ON NOVEMBER 21ST AT INTERNATIONAL TRADE FAIR

 Chandigarh, November, 18:

Punjab is showing inclusive growth and progressive Punjab as a holistic unit at ongoing international trade fair at Pragati Maidan, New Delhi. The Punjab day would be celebrated on November 21st. Renowned Punjabi Singer Gurdas Mann would enthrall the audience on Punjab day.

Disclosing this here today a spokesman of the Punjab government said that the theme of the trade fair is inclusive growth. The Punjab is showcasing its rapid pace of broad based growth. The focus of the state on Infrastructure (World Class Connectivity’s), Best Education Information and Technology Modern Power Plants, Agriculture Food Processing and various Industry sections are showcased in Exterior Facade and Interior through Models and breathtaking visuals. The above theme is in fusion with Vibrant and Rich Heritage of Punjab Culture.

  He further said that external Facade is conceptualised by the symbolic Highway as epitome of Connectivity of Punjab. Features like Dhaba: famous Punjab’s eatery and Plantation of crops with live water irrigation are built as seen along the Highway path. The architecture, colour schemes are in consonance with Punjab’s Vibrancy and theme.

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12485580 TONNES PADDY PROCURED IN PUNJAB

CHANDIGARH, NOVEMBER 18:

            The Government agencies and private millers procured more than 12485580 tonnes of Paddy till last evening.

Out of total procurement of 12485580 tonnes of paddy in all the procurement centers of Punjab, the Government agencies procured 11871967 tonnes of paddy (95.1%) till date whereas private traders procured 613613 tonnes (4.9%) of paddy. Till November 17, PUNGRAIN had procured 3609466 tonnes (30.4%) whereas MARKFED procured 2774247 tonnes (23.4%). PUNSUP procured 2657650 tonnes (22.4%), PSWC procured 1164924 tonnes (9.8%) whereas PAFC was able to procure 1211388 tonnes (10.2%) of paddy. The Central Government agency FCI had been able to procure 454292 tonnes (3.8%). 

            The spokesperson added that District Sangrur with 1528867 tonnes of procurement was leading in procurement operations whereas District Ludhiana with 1463236 tonnes of procurement was at second slot and district Patiala 1205635 tonnes of procurement ranked at third position.   

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Punjab State Teachers Eligibility Test to be held on December 28—Maluka

·        candidates to carry corbon copies of answer sheets and question paper  with them

Chandigarh, November 18-

        Punjab Government has decided to conduct the Punjab State Teachers Eligibility Test (PSTET) on December 28, 2013 (Saturday) for the year 2013. Online application for this test will be invited through the Education Department.

        Disclosing this here today Education Minister Punjab Mr. Sikander Singh Maluka said that to ensure more transperancy in PSTET this time candidates would  be allowed to take away Question Booklets and also be provided corbon copies of OMR answer sheet. Minister further said that the fees for this test for general/Backward Classes candidates would be Rs. 500/- per test and for sheducled caste and disabled candidates Rs 300/- per paper.

        Education Minister said that candidates would be expected three times more in PSTET (II) as compared to PSTET (1). PSTET II would be held in morning session.  Keeping in mind the shorter days in December and problem of commutation of candidates from far off and remote areas. the PSTET would be held in the evening. Minister has asked the seniors officers of the department to make adequate arrangments for the candidates while  to conducting  the exam.  

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Punjab nominates  non official members of Sub Division Bhulath of District Kapurthala Grievances Redressal Committee

Chandigarh, November 18

Punjab Government has nominated non-official members of  District Redressal Grievances Committee of Sub Division Bhulath of District Kapurthala. A notification has already been issued in this regard.

Disclosing  this here today  a spokesman of the Redressal of Grievances  department said that 27 non official have been nominated from recognized political parties and communities of Sub Division Bhulath of District Kapurthala

He said that amongst the nominated non official members were Sh. Jagjit Singh from SAD (B); Sh. Sat Pal Lahoria from BJP; Sh. Avtar Singh Walia from INC; Comrade Jasbir Singh from CPI;  Sh. Pargat Singh from BSP; Sh. Gian Singh from CPI (M); Sh. Rehamt Ali from Rashtarwadi Congress Party; Capt. Gurmit Singh from Ex-Servicemen; Sh. Harjit Singh from Backward Classes; Sh. Balwinder Kumar from SC; Sh. Balwinder Singh from Youth category; Sh. Surjit Singh from Nambardar; Smt. Manjit Kaur from Women Category; Sh. Ravi Charan Ghai from Social Services; Sh. Varinder Singh from Business; Sh. Baldev Singh from Industry; Sh. Khushwant Singh from Agriculture; Sh. Rachpal Singh Bachajivi representative of MP; Sh. Swaran Singh Josh representative of MLA; Sh. Amarjit Babbi from Valmiki community; Sh. Ramesh Singh from Mazbi Sikh and Sh. Jasbir Singh from BKU.

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 PUNJAB GOVERNMENT TO FORM MONITORING COMMITTEES TO OVERSEE CLEANLINESS OF DRAINS AND RIVULETS

·        LOCAL ELECTED REPRESENTATIVES WOULD DO THE SURVEILLANCE OF THE WORK IN PROGRESS

 CHANDIGARH, NOVEMBER 18:

            In a decision of far-reaching ramifications, the Punjab Government has decided to form monitoring committees to expedite the cleanliness of the drains and rivulets in the state thus to ensure transparent utilization of funds. Local elective representatives have been given the responsible task of surveillance of the work in progress and to ensure the hassle free and timely completion of the work.

Disclosing this here, an official spokesperson of the Irrigation Department said that in these committees, District Agriculture Officers, Area Irrigation Officers and Sarpanch of the respective village, in whose jurisdiction the canal/rivulet is passing, have been inducted as members. Deputy Commissioner would monitor the proper disbursement of funds. The spokesperson further said that the Irrigation Department would ensure the photography of the work, once before the starting of the work, during the 50 per cent completion and after the completion of the work. The record of photography would be put before the respective monitoring committee for its vetting. After the scrutiny and acceptance of the report by the monitoring committee, the funds would be released to the contractor.

          He said that the Chief Engineers, Canals would be responsible for the overall work and transparent uses of funds, whereas Chief Engineer, Vigilance would have to conduct surprise monitoring visit at least once in every region and to report to the respective Deputy Commissioner.

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BADAL WARNS PEOPLE OF NEFARIOUS DESIGNS AND FALSE PROPAGANDA PERPETRATED BY THE STATE CONGRESS LEADERSHIP

·        APPEALS PEOPLE TO OUST CONGRESS FOR INSTALLATION OF NDA GOVERNMENT TO BRING FAR MORE DEVELOPMENT AND PROSPERITY IN PUNJAB

·        EXIT POLLS ARE JUST IMAGINARY, ILLUSIVE AND UNREALISTIC

·        PARTY CANNOT BE BLAMED FOR UNSCRUPULOUS AND UNLAWFUL ACTIVITIES OF ANY INDIVIDUAL

·        ANYONE FOUND GUILTY IN DRUG TRAFFICKING WON’T BE SPARED

·        RECAST CENTRE-STATE RELATIONS TO ENSURE TRUE FEDERAL STRUCTURE

·        CM PAYS OBEISANCE AT GURDWARA BER SAHIB

Fattudhinga (Sultanpur Lodhi), November 17

          The Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today cautioned the people to beware of the nefarious designs and false propaganda unleashed by the state Congress leadership out of sheer frustration and asked them to do soul searching before exercising their franchise in favor of a particular candidate during the forthcoming parliamentary elections in the state.

          Addressing a gathering after inaugurating 30-bedded Community Health Centre here at a cost of Rs. 4.33 crore, the Chief Minister advised the people to take this decision very carefully because it was directly related to their destiny linked with the overall development of area and the prosperity of its people. Mr. Badal said that the Congress led UPA government has failed to deliver goods to the common man in a right perspective being a votary of ‘Aam Aadmi’ who was feeling disenchanted by the false promises made by it during the last Lok Sabha polls. He said sky rocketing prices of essential commodities have broken the back bone of the common man coupled with wide spread corruption and mal administration at galore adding he rated it as world’s most inefficient and corrupt government. He said SAD-BJP government had been taking up the issue from day one that Centre-State relations should be recast with the thrust on true federal structure rather the UPA government has gradually diluted nation’s federal character to unitary one thereby encroaching upon the jurisdiction and powers of the states. He said the states have been merely relegated to the dignified municipalities who have to look upon Centre for their petty demands because enormous powers in terms of economic and financial were vested in Union government.

          Appealing the people for the change of guard at Centre, the Chief Minister asked them to oust Congress and pave a way for the installation of BJP led NDA government so that Punjab could seek more funds and get big projects sanctioned for the state which was not feasible in the present scenario due to Centre’s step motherly treatment towards Punjab. He said it was all the more important to have NDA government at Centre because it would not only ensure complete homogeneity but also get our rightful share from Central funds to hasten up the speed of development projects.

Training guns at the state Congress leadership who was habitual of criticizing the SAD-BJP government for trivial matters, Mr. Badal said he knew that criticism has become a fashion now-a-days and the Congress was indulging heftily in it just to gain cheap popularity in media. The Chief Minister said he was fully seized of Congress psyche as it was bereft of any agenda and thus resorting to mudslinging to air out its negativity. He pointed out healthy criticism was always welcomed but criticism just for the sake of criticism was not only deplorable but also unacceptable.

          Later talking to the media persons on the issue of Exit Polls, the Chief Minister said that any constituent, ally or a party could have its own opinion which does not tantamount to having difference of opinion within a particular group or a party. Vindicating his stand, he said even the members of a same family have a difference of opinion over an issue which doesn’t mean that there was no harmony. He said we should not infer conclusions instantly on such issues moreover the exit polls were just imaginary, illusive and unrealistic. He cited an example that SAD-BJP alliance was projected to be looser and Congress a winner in the State Assembly polls, 2012 through exit polls where as the actual picture was completely different and we were voted to power consecutively for the second record term.

          Replying to another query regarding the involvement of Youth Akali workers in wake of heavy seizure of drugs and narcotics in the state, Mr. Badal said that how come the party could be blamed for the unscrupulous activities and misdeeds of any individual or a person associated with the party. He categorically said that anyone involved in such anti-social and unlawful activities howsoever high or mighty, he may be, would not be spared at any cost. Mr. Badal further said that law would take its own course to bring the guilty to the book as state government was firmly committed towards zero tolerance on the issue of drug trafficking. At the same time, he squarely blamed the Centre for showing complacency on its part in checking the menace of cross border drug trafficking effectively because all these international borders were exclusively manned by the Central agencies and Para-military forces.

          Later, the Chief Minister accompanied by former Cabinet Minister and senior Akali leader Dr. Upinder jit Kaur paid obeisance at the historic Gurdwara Sri Ber Sahib associated with first Sikh Guru Sri Guru Nanak Dev ji on his Parkash Purb.

          Earlier, the Chief Minister also inaugurated the bridge at village Nanakpur at a cost of Rs. 2.5 crore on the Kapurthala-Fattudhinga road.

          The Chief Minister announced a two kilometer road to be constructed to link the GNDU regional campus, newly constructed CHC and grain market in Fattudhinga village.

          Mr. Badal also gave away the prizes to the winners of Kabaddi tournament at Sultanpur Lodhi.

          Prominent among other who were present on the occasion included Cabinet Minister Mr. Ajit Singh Kohar, Chief Parliamentary Secretary Mr. Som Parkash, Chairman Markfed Mr. Jarnail Singh Wahad, Advisor to the Chief Minister on National Affairs and Media Mr. Harcharan Bains, SGPC member Gurpreet Kaur, Special Principal Secretary to the Chief Minister Mr. Ajoy Sharma and Deputy Commissioner Kapurthala Mr. DS Mangat.

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 CITIES FACELIFT ON AGENDA

JOSHI DISBURSED RS. 751.58 CRORE TO ALL 149 LOCAL BODIES

CHANDIGARH, NOVEMBER 17:

            The Local Bodies department disbursed grant in aid worth Rs. 751.58 crore to all the 149 local bodies of the state to compensate them for the loss of octroi. This grant meant for the overall development of the cities. It was disclosed by Mr. Anil Joshi, Minister for Local Bodies, Punjab here today.

            Mr. Joshi said that the grant in aid was provided to the local bodies out of the collection of the VAT. He said that the funds were provided to the Local Government for the seven months (up to October 31, 2013) of the current financial year 2013-14 and in total Rs. 751.58 crore was disbursed to the local government. The respective Local Bodies included Municipal Corporations, Municipal Councils and Panchayats would use this grant for providing better basic amentias and setting up modern infrastructure.

The Minister while divulging the detail of the amount disbursed to the major cities, said that Municipal Corporation Ludhiana has been disbursed an amount of Rs. 184.84 crore, Municipal Corporation Jalandhar Rs. 77.87 crore, Municipal Corporation Amritsar Rs. 65.55 crore, Municipal Corporation Bathinda Rs. 33.33 crore, Municipal Corporation Mohali Rs. 25.70 crore, Municipal Corporation Patiala Rs.18.21 crore, Municipal Corporation Moga Rs.15.93 crore, Municipal Corporation Hoshiarpur Rs.13.55 crore, Municipal Corporation Pathankot Rs.9.54 crore and Municipal Corporation Phagwara has been provided the finical assistance of Rs. 8.99 crore.

Mr. Joshi reiterated the Punjab Government resolve to enact total facelift of all the cities by providing the citizen basic amentias coupled with ultra modern infrastructure.

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NIIFT STUDENTS GETS PLACEMENTS IN LEADING NATIONAL AND INTERNATIONAL COMPANIES: MITTAL

·       ENDEAVOR TO PROMOTE STATE OF PUNJAB AS A FASHION HUB.

CHANDIGARH, NOVEMBER 17:

The Northern India Institute of Fashion Technology (NIIFT) has achieved unique distinction of 100% placement of the students in the leading National and International Companies and is occupying challenging positions drawing handsome package.

Disclosing this here today Mr. Madan Mohan Mittal, Industries, Commerce and Technical Education, Minister, Punjab said that it is our endeavor to promote state of Punjab as a Fashion Hub. NIIFT has played a vital role in bringing more professionalism in the textile and clothing industry and has attracted talent in this sector. The Institute has its own Placement Cell which enables the students to get placements in Fashion industry. NIIFT students were working for world famous leading brands Few among those are Reebok, Numero Uno, Adidas, RMX Joss, Cascade Enterprises, Vardhman Group, Orient Crafts, Matrix Clothing, Rupayan, Nahar Group, Richa & Co, Sewa Exports, Cheer Sagar, Wingsfield, Graffiti, Ravels, GIVO International, B.L. International, etc. Many Domestic Brands such as Sportking, Globus, Monte Carlo, Rage, Duke Fashions, Black Berry, VXL Techs etc. have been associated with NIIFT. He further said that the Students have also been promoted by leading Designers, like Manish Arora, Anshu Arora Sen, Manju & Bobby Gover and many more. NIIFT equips the students with the expertise to open up their own enterprises, Design Studios or work with leading Export Houses.

     He said that Northern India Institute of Fashion Technology (NIIFT) was set up at Mohali in 1995 by the Govt. of Punjab under the Department of Industries & Commerce. NIIFT, Mohali has also set up two Centers at Ludhiana and Jalandhar in the year 2008 and 2009 respectively.

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SUKHBIR INVITES OSWAL GROUP TO ESTABLISH UNIVERSITY IN PUNJAB

MEGA EDUCATION CITY TO COME UP NEAR CHANDIGARH

Ludhiana, November 16:   Punjab Deputy Chief Minister Sukhbir Singh Badal today invited the Oswal group to establish a world class university in the state preferably in Ludhiana, so that the youth could be given a focused education in the field of commerce and management.

            Addressing a gathering after inaugurating the New Block of Sri Aurobindo College of Commerce and Management Ludhiana, Mr. Badal said that the upcoming education city would house eminent world class educational institutions and universities in humanities, medical, pharmaceutical, engineering etc. to impart the start of art education to the students of our country as well as from other parts of the world.

The deputy chief minister also announced that a mega education city over an area of 1500 acre would soon come up at Mullanpura near Chandigarh to give further impetus to the quality of higher education in the state.        

            Reiterating his resolve to make Punjab as the most literate state in the country, Mr. Badal said that the Punjab government has framed a number of policies to strengthen the base of education in the state. He said that the pace of development in Punjab was not due to a Magic Wand but it was the creative and positive mindset of the leadership that has brought the desired results.

            Expressing concern over the increased trend of drug addiction amongst youth, Mr. Badal the Punjab government has launched an extensive drive against the drugs in Punjab besides motivating them to stay away from drugs. He said that “we are fortunate to have maximum youth power in the country”, the energies of the youth would be channelized towards creativity. He made an appeal to the youth to contribute in shaping up the future of the country.

            Reacting to the baseless propaganda of the Congress party on the state’s decaying financial health; Mr. Badal rubbished all such comments saying that the SAD-BJP has successfully initiated a sustained campaign to make Punjab most preferred investment destination in India, the country’s top business houses have made public their plans to make huge investment in the agrarian state, he added.            

            Prominent among others who were present on the occasion included PWD Minister Mr. Sharanjit Singh Dhillon, Industrial Advisor Mr. Kamal Oswal, Mr. Rajinder Bhandari, Mayor Mr. Harcharn Singh Gohalwaria, Commissioner Mr. Rahul Tiwari & Others.

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 BADAL EXHORTS SOCIAL ORGANIZATIONS TO INCULCATE NATIONALISM AND COMMUNAL HARMONY AMONGST OUR YOUTH

CALLS UPON THE YOUTH TO STRIVE HARD FOR THE PRESERVATION OF OUR RICH CULTURAL HERITAGE for ESTABLISHING VALUE BASED SOCIETY

OFFERS ONE CRORE AS FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE TO BVP FOR ESTABLISHING A NEW SKILL DEVELOPMENT TRAINING CENTRE

URGES CENTRE FOR A JOINT OPERATION WITH THE STATE TO TACKLE THE MENACE OF DRUGS

 LUDHIANA NOVEMBER 16:

            Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today called upon the eminent scholars, educationists, academicians attached with the non-political Social organizations to further intensify their efforts to inculcate the spirit of nationalism and communal harmony amongst our young.

While addressing a mammoth gathering during the inaugural function on 39th All India National Group Song Competition-2013 organized by Bharat Vikas Parishad (BVP) here today, Mr. Badal Impressed upon the need to establish a value based society, adding he called upon the youth to strive hard for preserving our rich cultural heritage.

Mr. Badal lauded the enamors role of Punjabis for making more than 80% sacrifices in the national freedom struggle despite being merely two-and-a-half percent of country’s total population.   He said that Punjabis had played a vanguard role in freedom struggle and proved themselves the true sons of the soil.  He said, “Everyone must feel proud of this unique and brave contribution of Punjabis. The rich legacy of unprecedented sacrifices of our martyrs would ever act as a source of patriotic inspiration for our future generations.

Appreciating the efforts of Bharat Vikas Parishad a non-political, socio-cultural voluntary organization that was established in 1963, dedicated to the teachings of Swami Vivekanand Ji to ensure country's overall development through imbibing a sense of patriotism, national unity and integrity amongst the country men. Mr. Badal asked the organization to work in sync with the state government for establishing a State-of-the-art Skill development centre to train unemployed youth to enable them to be gainfully employed. Reiterating the firm commitment of   SAD-BJP government for the welfare of its youth especially the downtrodden and oppressed section of the society, besides playing pro-active role in establishing a value based society, Mr. Badal offered of Rs. One crore as financial assistance to BVP for establishing the a new Skill development tanning centre.

Later, addressing the media persons the Chief Minister said that social maladies like drug addiction had crippled our society and keeping in view the growing tendency of drug addiction especially amongst the youth, the state government had already launched a crusade to stamp out this menace. Mr. Badal said that time and again he kept on urging the Government of India (GoI) to take effective measures to check the smuggling of drug from across the Pakistan border as it was the sole responsibility of GoI to safeguard the International borders through BSF and other Central Para-military forces, which were directly under its control. He said that a joint operation must be launched by the  Centre and States to redress this issue completely.

Expressing concern over ever increasing cross border smuggling of drugs and narcotics, Mr. Badal said that SAD-BJP government had already taken strict action to control drug menace with in the state and seized huge consignments of drugs and caught the drug peddlers. Blaming GoI for not taking issue seriously, Mr. Badal said that the real problem was still persisting across the border. He further mentioned added that even the open sale of poppy husk like any other commodity in the neighboring state of Rajasthan was posing a major threat to Punjab but agony was despite his repeated requests GoI had not even asked the Rajasthan government on this count.

On the occasion, Mr. Badal also announced a grant of Rs. 10 lac for BVP.

Prominent amongst those were present on the occasion included BVP's National President Justice (Retd.) VS Kokje, National Vice-president Mr. Lalit Mahajan, National General secretary Mr. Surinder Kumar, prominent Industrialists Mr. Rajiv Nanachal and Advisor to the Chief minister Mr. Mahesh Inder Singh Grewal, besides other office bearers of BVP and  hundreds of young participants across the Country.   

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 BADAL EXHORTS BIOCHEMIST FRATERNITY TO EVOLVE A SYSTEM IN SYNC WITH STATE GOVERNMENT TO ENSURE A COST EFFECTIVE AND BEST LABORATORY DIAGNOSTIC SYSTEM 

APPEALS MEDICAL FRATERNITY TO DISCHARGE DUTIES WITH DEDICATION AND COMMITMENT TO SERVE THE POOR AND NEEDY

 LUDHIANA NOVEMBER 16:

         To ensure early detection of diseases and their timely cure, the Punjab Government would soon evolve a diagnostic and laboratory testing system at least once in a year for every person in the state.

        An announcement to this effect was made by Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today while presiding over an inaugural function of the 21st Annual National Conference - 2013 of the Association of Medical Biochemists of India (AMBICON) the country’s leading body of biochemists here.

        Lauding the importance of the Biochemistry in the Medical Science, Mr. Badal felicitated the Christian Medical College (CMC) Ludhiana for organising this conference first time in Punjab. Mr. Badal said that need of the hour today was to ensure best and correct clinical testing based on effective laboratory diagnostic system available at cheaper rates for the patients.

        He said that the medical biochemist doctors could play a major role in disease detection, which was followed by effective treatment under the expert supervision of doctors. In the cases like cancer and drug addiction biochemists had played a major role, added Mr. Badal.

        Mr. Badal reiterated that SAD-BJP government was fully committed to provide best Health care and diagnostic facilities to the people in all the government hospitals, dispensaries and Health Sub Centers. About Rs. 350 crore had been spent by the state government during its last tenure for the upgradation of the government health care net work across the state for providing quality treatment to the patients at affordable rates. All the three Government Medical Colleges at Amristar, Patiala and Faridkot were being upgraded to ensure the best health treatment.

Likewise, to ensure quality Health care services to the people at their doorsteps, Mega Medical camps had also been organized across the state, where on the spot treatment of all the ailments had been provided besides, distributing free medicines, added Mr. Badal.

Mr. Badal said that the state government had created a Dedicated Punjab State Cancer and Drug de-addiction Treatment Fund of Rs. 300 crore. All out efforts were being made to eliminate drug addiction from the state especially weaning the youth away from the scourge of Drug addiction, adding Mr. Badal said that five State-of-the-art 50-bedded Drug De-addiction Centers with an outlay of Rs 25 crore at Bathinda, Faridkot, Patiala, Jalandhar and Amritsar will be made functional soon. Besides, a state-wide crusade had also been launched recently to curb the menace of deadly disease of cancer by conducting door-to-door surveys across the state for an early detection of cancer and its timely treatment, added Mr. Badal.

The Chief Minisrer further said that realising the hardships faced by the patients and their kin due to the costly treatment of Cancer, SAD-BJP government was making a humble effort to help them through ‘Mukh Mantri Punjab Cancer Raahat Kosh’ Scheme under which the state Government was giving financial aid of Rs 1.50 lakh each to the cancer patient, besides providing them cheaper medicines at far less rates than available in the market. A World class Cancer Hospital on the lines of Tata Memorial Centre, Mumbai was being set up at Mullanpur near Chandigarh for which the state government has already given 50 acres of its prime land, said Mr. Badal. He also added that a 100 bedded advanced Cancer Centre was coming up at Bathinda.

He appealed the medical fraternity to discharge their duties with utmost dedication, commitment and sincerity in the larger interest of general public especially the poor and needy.

Speaking on the occasion Advisor to the chief minister Mr. Maheshinder Singh Grewal appraised the gathering that the Chief minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal had play a pivotal role in establishing the second health University of the Country in Punjab i.e. Baba Farid University of Health Sciences, Faridkot (BFUHS). 

On the occasion Organizing Chairperson and HOD Biochemistry CMC Dr. Bharti Uppal welcomed the Chief Minister and apprised that theconference was attended by around 500 delegates from across the country, besides the delegates from UK, USA, Australia also.

Prominent amongst those addressed the gathering includes Vice Chairman Punjab Planning Board, Mr. Rajendra Gupta, Director CMC Dr A.G. Thomas and Principal Christian Medical College Dr.S.M Bhatti.

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BIKRAM MAJITHIA GREETS PEOPLE ON GURUPURB

CHANDIGARH NOVEMBER 16:

Mr. Bikram Singh Majithia, Minister for Revenue and Information & Public Relations, Punjab extended his heartiest greetings to the people of Punjab and the Indians settled abroad on the auspicious occasion of Guru Nanak Devji”s birth anniversary.

       In his message on the Gurupurab, Mr. Majithia said that Guru Nanak Dev ji was an apostle of peace, love, devotion, universal brotherhood and communal harmony. We must follow his preaching of universal brotherhood and render selfless services to humanity. He also said that Guru Nanak's philosophy sought “Sarbat Da Bhalla” (welfare of all) and his message is relevant to the whole world, transcending all boundaries.

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BADAL FELICITATES PEOPLE ON PARKASH UTSAV OF SRI GURU NANAK DEV JI

DEPUTY CM ALSO EXTENDS HIS WARM WISHES

Chandigarh, November 16-

Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today extended his warm wishes to the people across the globe on the sacred occasion of Parkash Utsav of Sri Guru Nanak Dev Ji.

In his message on the eve of Gurpurab, the Chief Minister said that Sri Guru Nanak Dev Ji was a true social reformer and a great spiritual ambassador who preached the gospels of love, compassion, mutual tolerance, universal brotherhood and oneness of mankind through his life and philosophy. He said that Sri Guru Nanak Dev Ji bitterly opposed the maladies of hypocrisy, falsehood, pretensions and caste-prejudices by envisioning a casteless society free from rituals and superstitions adding that he made tireless efforts for bringing social equality through the concept of ‘Sangat and Pangat’ thereby eradicating the evil of casteism from the society Mr. Badal said that Sri Guru Nanak Dev Ji guided the humanity to attain salvation by spreading the cult of devotion to God and the eternal message of oneness of God amongst the mankind.

The Chief Minister also appealed the people to imbibe the spirit of service and humility as preached by the Great Guru and strive hard for carving out a prosperous and egalitarian society by following the precious legacy of Sri Guru Nanak Dev Ji and celebrate this sacred occasion with utmost devotion and dedication rising above the parochial considerations of caste, colour, creed and religion.

Meanwhile greeting the people on the auspicious occasion, Deputy Chief Minister Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal said that Sri Guru Nanak Dev ji motivated the humanity with new ideas, aims, aspirations and called upon them to dispense with the prevalent social maladies. "Guru ji's teachings are still relevant today especially in the present complex and materialistic society", he added.

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CABINET MINISTERS GREETS PEOPLE ON THE EVE OF PARKASH UTSAV OF SRI GURU NANAK DEV JI 

CHANDIGARH, NOVEMBER 16:

Punjab Cabinet Ministers today extended there warm greetings to the people on the eve of Parkash Utsav of Sri Guru Nanak Dev Ji.

       Congratulating people on this occasion Mr. Parminder Singh Dhindsa, Mr. Chunni Lal Bhagat, Mr. Madan Mohan Mittal, Mr. Surjit Kumar Jyani, Mr. Janmeja Singh Sekhon, Mr. Anil Joshi, Surjit Singh Rakhra and Mr. Sharanjit Singh Dhillon said that Sri Guru Nanak Dev Ji showed us the path to spiritual salvation and his teachings would always continue to inspire us to embrace equality, compassion and humanism. They said that this day gives us an opportunity to deeply introspect ourselves about Guru Ji's message of truthfulness and remembering God, honestly earning through one's physical and mental effort while accepting God's gifts and blessings and to share within society.

The Ministers said that Sri Guru Nanak's profound message of leading an honest, truthful and virtuous life would continue to guide and inspire humanity in times to come.