NRI punjab news- 2013

Punjab News:

CM SEEKS PERSONAL INTERVENTION OF MODI FOR FINANCIAL RESTRUCTURING OF THE OUTSTANDING LOANS OF NAFED

APPRISES PM ABOUT GLORIOUS TRACK RECORD OF APEX MARKETING COOPERATIVE OF INDIA IN SERVING THE FARMERS

URGES MODI TO ADVISE THE PUBLIC SECTOR BANKS FOR UNDERTAKING OTS WITH NAFED TO CLEAR ITS DEBT

DEMANDS EXPEDITIOUS REIMBURSEMENT OF LOSSES SUFFERED BY NAFED DURING PROCUREMENT

Chandigarh, September 3-

Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal urged the Prime Minister Mr. Narendra Modi seeking his personal intervention for immediate financial restructuring of the outstanding loans of the financially ailing NAFED to bail out this apex organization of marketing cooperatives in India.

In a letter to Mr. Modi, the Chief Minister recalled the outstanding services rendered by NAFED saying that this premier organization was set up with the main objective to promote and develop agricultural marketing through its member constituents at the State and primary level for the welfare of the farmers. He said that since its inception in 1958, NAFED has been playing a vanguard role in protecting the interest of farmers across the country. Mr. Badal apprised the Prime Minister that under the Price Support Scheme (PSS) of the Government of India (GoI), NAFED has came to rescue of farmers in a big way adding that in 1976-77, the GoI had designated NAFED as its Nodal Agency under this scheme for procurement of major oilseeds like Mustard, Soyabean, Groundnut, copra etc. and pulses like Gram, Moong, Urad etc. besides the cash crop like Cotton.

The Chief Minister further said that in the last few years, NAFED had borrowed funds from various public sector banks but with the passage of time, due to poor recovery, these bank loans turned into Non Performing Assets (NPAs) as the organization did not have funds to service these loans. He bemoaned that as on date, total outstanding loans of the banks including interest stood at nearly whopping Rs. 1800 crores.

Pleading the case for financial restructuring of the outstanding loans of NAFED, the Chief Minister said that a request in this regard had been pending with the Union Ministry of Finance. He informed the Prime Minister that in the past many meetings have been held in this regard in the Department of Financial Services and Ministry of Agriculture adding he said that in consultation with the banks, the SBI Capital Markets Limited (SBI Cap) was engaged to prepare a financial restructuring package suggesting balanced level of commitments/sacrifices from all the stakeholders and to ensure long-term financial viability of NAFED. Giving brief details of this proposal, Mr. Badal said that it envisaged Rs. 590 crores interest free advance from the GoI and Rs. 450 crores Government Guarantee for raising loans from banks and NAFED's own contribution of Rs. 59 crores to settle the bank loans of Rs. 1832 crores as on March 31, 2012 at 60% i.e. Rs. 1,099 crores

The Chief Minister further said that although the above proposal for Financial Restructuring of NAFED was discussed in the expenditure Finance Committee (EFC) meeting in March 2013 under the Chairmanship of the then Secretary (Expenditure), yet there has been no progress thereafter. Citing the unparalleled contribution made by the NAFED for ensuring the welfare of the farmers, Mr. Badal impressed upon the Prime Minister to intervene for ensuring financial restructuring of outstanding loans of the organization or advise the public sector banks to undertake ‘One Time Settlement’ with the NAFED so that the long standing hardship being faced by it could be taken care of. The Chief Minister also urged Mr. Modi to direct the Union Agriculture Ministry for expediting the process of reimbursing losses of Rs. 318 crores suffered in undertaking Price Support operations and Rs. 160 crores on account import of pulses by the NAFED, so that it could continue its procurement operation with better financial management for the welfare of the farmers.

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EDUCATION MINISTER DR CHEEMA ANNOUNCES NAMES OF STATE AWARDEE TEACHERS

· WILL HONOUR 34 TEACHERS WITH STATE AWARD AT JALANDHAR ON SEPTEMBER 5

CHANDIGARH, SEPTEMBER 3:

Punjab Education Minister Dr. Daljit Singh Cheema today announced the names of 34 teachers, who will be honoured with prestigious State Award on the eve of Teacher’s Day in a state level function to be held at Jalandhar on September 5.

Announcing the names of teachers for state award, Dr. Cheema said that they had formed a three member committee comprising Principal Secretary Education Mrs. Anjali Bhawra, Director General School Education Mr. G.K. Singh and DPI (Secondary) Mr. Kamal Garg for the judicious selection of teaching fraternity for state award. He said a total 95 cases have been received for this honour by the teachers with detailed information of their achievements, which were preliminary examined by principals of their respective schools and then thoroughly inspected by committees at district levels under District Education Officers. He said that these cases were re-examined by 9 sub state level committees out of which 34 teachers have been selected by State Level Selection Committee.

The Minister informed that this selection has been finalized on the basis of achievements of teachers. He said that out of total 100 marks 40 were for the results of students of respective teachers while the other parameters were ACR, Educational Qualification, Academic Achievements, character, contribution for the all round development of school, attitude towards students and their parents, coordination with village level committees etc. He said that there were special marks for teachers were being delivering their duties in odd circumstances. He said that this process was so simple, logical and transparent so the teachers can evaluate themselves at their own.

Dr. Cheema said that these 34 teachers would get their awards in state level function to be held at Jalandhar on September 5, where they would be honoured with a cash amount of Rs. 10000, appreciation letter, a meal and one year extension on service period.

List of State Awardees in different categories:

Principal (2): Pavinder Kaur GSSS Girls, Sultanwind, Amritsar) and Mandeep Kaur (GSSS Girls Mall Road, Amritsar)

Head Master (2): Darshan Singh and Rajinder Singh (G Model HS Nabha, Patiala)

Lecturer (7): Mrs Manisha (Math, GSSS Town Hall Mandi, Amritsar), Sukhdarshan Singh (Physics, GSSS Kalian, Patiala), Gurjant Singh (Commerce, GSSS Badal, Mukatsar Sahib), Charanjit Singh (Punjabi, GSSS Basowal, Rupnagar), Aman Sharma (English, GSSS Sudhar, Amritsar), Parminder Kumar ( English, GSSS Mehla, , Sangrur) and Gurpreet Kaur (Punjabi, GSSS Shuman Kalan, Bathinda)

Master Cadre (High and Senior Secondary) (8): Abhinav Joshi (Science, GSSS Girls Sanur, Patiala), Sukhdev Singh (Science, GHS Bhalian, Rupnagar), Mukhtiar Singh (SS, GHS Kamalke, Moga), Prem Kumar (SS, GHS Bhangal, Rupnagar), Pardeep Kumar (Math, GSSS Tamkot, Mukatsar), Om Parkash (PTI, GSSS Talwandi, Gurdaspur), Varinder Singh (PTI, GHS Ballamgarh, Sangrur) and Amritpal Singh (Agriculture Master, GSSS Jassi Pau Wali, Bathinda)

Head Teacher/ETT (7): Gurjant Singh (HT, GPS Pannawala, Sangrur), Gurpreet Singh Sandhu (HT, G Elem S, Buraj Hari Singh, Ludhiana), Sukhram (HT, HPS Bhammian Khurad, Ludhiana), Paramjit Kaur (ETT GPS Gambirpur (Lower), Rupnagar), Tarlochan Singh (HT, GPS Nagra, Ludhiana), Ajmer Singh (HT, G Elem S Thuhi, Patiala) and Paramjit Singh (ETT, GPS Dangoli)

Master/Mistress (Middle School) (8): Gurmeet Singh (SS, GMS Bharu, Mukatsar Sahib, Gurmeet Singh (SS, GMS Sirshiri, Faridkot), Paramjit Singh (Art and Craft, GMS, Goniana Khurad, Bathinda), Lakhmir Singh (SS, GMS Bhajauli, SAS Nagar), Kashma Devi (SS, GMS, Khamera, Rupnagar), Megh Dass (Science, GMS Bharthala, Ludhiana), Dharampal Mianavi (SS, GMS Raheemabad Kalan, Ludhiana) and Sudagar Singh Sarabha (PTI, GMS Giaspura, Ludhiana)

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Punjab bans TRANSFERS in all departments

Chandigarh, September 3:

The Punjab Government today banned transfers & postings of officials/officers in all departments of the government with immediate effect.

This was disclosed by an official spokesman. He said that instructions in this regard have been issued to all Financial Commissioners, Administrative Secretaries, Heads of the departments, Commissioners of the Divisions, Deputy Commissioners and Sub Divisional officers (Civil) for immediate compliance.

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Mittal gives appointment letters to 43 newly recruited clerks

Chandigarh, September 3:

The Minister for Technical Education and Industrial Training Sh. Madan Mohan Mittal today distributed appointment letters to 43 newly recruited clerks of the Directorate of Technical Education and Industrial Training.

Addressing the new recruitments, Sh. Mittal congratulated them and asked them to work with complete dedication. He motivated them to adopt honesty and transparency as the two main constituents of their profession.

Secretary Technical Education and Industrial Training, Sh. R K Verma, IAS and Director Technical Education and Industrial Training Sh. B. Purushartha also congratulated the new employees asking them to work hard with consistency.

Senior officers of the department were also amongst those prominent present at the event.

SHIVRAJ V. PATIL ADMINISTERS OATH TO NEWLY APPOINTED CHAIRMAN OF PPSC

CHANDIGARH, SEPTEMBER 2: The Punjab Governor and Administrator, Union Territory, Chandigarh, Mr. Shivraj V. Patil today administered the oath of office, secrecy and allegiance to Constitution of India to the newly appointed Chairman of the Punjab Public Service Commission (PPSC) Lt. Gen. (Retd.) Tejwant Singh Gill at a simple and brief but impressive ceremony held here at Punjab Raj Bhavan.

Earlier, the Punjab Chief Secretary, Mr. Sarvesh Kaushal sought the permission of the Governor to start the oath taking ceremony. Soon after being sworn in, Lt. Gen. Gill signed the oath, which was counter-signed by the Governor.

Meanwhile, the Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal also graced the occasion.

Members of Punjab Cabinet and PPSC besides senior officers of civil and police administration were also present on the occasion.

The family members, friends and well-wishers of Lt. Gen. Gill also attended the swearing-in-ceremony.

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3rd SURPRISE CHECKING IN 964 SCHOOLS; 61 TEACHERS FOUND ABSENT, 150 LATE COMERS AND 61 LONG TIME ABSENTEE

CHANDIGARH, SEPTEMBER 2:

The Special Teams of Education Department today conducted surprise visits in three circles including Jalandhar, Faridkot and Nabha with a view to maintain punctuality and discipline in Punjab Schools and found 61 teachers absent, listed 61 long time absentee teachers and 150 late comers. It may be mentioned that it is the 3rd Special Surprise check in last 3 weeks.

Disclosing this here today an official spokesperson said that following the directions of Education Minister Dr. Daljit Singh Cheema the special teams were conducting surprise checks throughout the state to ensure punctuality and discipline. He said that three Circles namely Jalandhar, Faridkot and Nabha (Patiala) today visited by the special teams at the same time. Special teams visited 453 schools of Jalandhar Circle, 270 schools of Nabha (Patiala) Circle and 241 schools of Faridkot Circle.

He further said that 43 teachers were found absent in Jalandhar Circle and 114 were late comers while 35 found long time absentee. In Nabha (Patiala) Circle 4 teachers were found absent, 17 late comers and 14 were long time absentee. Similarly, in Faridkot Circle 14 teachers were found absent, 19 late comers and 14 were found long time absentee.

Meanwhile Punjab Education Minister Dr. Daljit Singh Cheema said that strict action would be taken against long time absentee teachers while necessary action according to department rules would also be initiated against those found absent and late comers.

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MAJITHIA ORDERS SPECIAL GIRDAWRI IN RAIN AFFECTED VILLAGES OF MANSA DISTRICT

Chandigarh, September 2: Punjab Revenue Minister Mr. Bikram Singh Majithia has ordered special girdawri of all those villages of district Mansa where the cotton crops have suffered heavy losses due to excessive rain and blockade as well as overflowing of distributaries. He had directed the revenue authorities to submit the special girdawri report at the earliest.

The Revenue Minister has got report that Jherianwali, Raipur and Tandian villages of Sardulgarh sub-division and Bhainibagha, Sadda Singh Wala, Khokhar Khurd, Karamgarh, Autanwali, Talwandi Aklia, Banawali and Peron of Mansa Sub-division have suffered the most. Besides this, the Power Sub-station of Village Raipur has also been damaged. The Minister has also directed the Punjab State Power Corporation Limited to repair the Sub-station at the earliest.

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Punjab to develop Biotech Park in 75 acres at SAS Nagar

(SAS Nagar to emerge as biotech hub in North India- Sukhbir Badal)

(Gobindgarh fort will open for public after September 25)

Chandigarh, September 2-With a view to establish Punjab as the biotechnology hub of North India, Punjab Deputy Chief Minister Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal today announced that state government would develop its first ever Biotech park on 75 acres of land in sector 81 in Mohali within one year.

In a high level meeting with the state officials here on Tuesday, Mr. Badal said “our target is to boost scientific activities to accelerate the use of new techniques in new sectors like biotech as being an agricultural state Punjab has a great potential to grow in this field”.

Adding further he said that SAS Nagar would be a home to cluster of agri-food and biotechnology institutes as center has already announced to set up Bio Processing Unit and Punjab Biotechnology Incubator for this city.

This park would be developed by the Punjab Bureau of Investment Promotion along with the Science and Technology department. Deputy CM also asked the Principal Secretary Science and Technology to visit the leading players of this sector to initiate a dialogue for assistance and investment in next 15 days.

Deputy CM has also ordered to set up a training centre for students and progressive farmers in five acres where they could be trained in that field besides working on tissue culture to develop new varieties. Mr. Badal has also asked the officials to allot plots to the investors in Biotech Park on priority basis.

Separately reviewing the ongoing preservation work at historic Gobindgarh fort at Amritsar, Mr Badal announced that all parts of the fort would be opened for public by September 25.

Prominent amongst present in the meeting included Principal Secretary Investment Promotion Karan Avtar Singh, Principal Secretary Science and Technology Vishavjit Khanna, Secretary Housing A. Venu Prasad, Managing Director PIDB Anurag Aggarwal, Secretary Tourism and Cultural Affairs Raji. P. Srivastva, Secretary Science and Technology Seema Jain, Special Principal Secretaries to Deputy CM Manvesh Singh Sidhu and Ajay Mahajan.

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PUNJAB ALL SET TO IMPLEMENT E-STAMPING SYSTEM-MAJITHIA PRESIDES OVER A HIGH LEVEL MEETING

CHANDIGARH, SEPTEMBER 2: Punjab Revenue Department took a giant leap towards implementing e-stamping system for registration deeds with the Punjab Cabinet approving “Punjab e-Stamp Rules 2014”.

Disclosing this here today Revenue Minister Mr. Bikram Singh Majithia said that this path breaking people friendly initiative has been taken by the Revenue Department in which efforts would be made to involve all the stamp vendors in the authorized collection centers of e-stamping system to give them an opportunity to enhance their earnings and their interests would be taken well care of. He said that under the system all registration deeds requiring stamps above Rs. 50,000 would be covered by e-stamping system and Revenue Department was signing agreement with Stock Holding Corporation of India (SHCIL), a central record keeping agency to implement this system.

Finalizing the arrangements for statewide implementation of e-stamping system in a high level meeting, Mr. Majithia said that SHCIL would appoint authorize collection center franchise throughout the state in which stamp vendors would also be involved. Besides this, SHCIL would impart training to the users, Sub-Registrars Officers and Government Officers for effective implementation as well as monitoring of the system. He directed the Deputy Commissioners to upgrade the requisite infrastructure in all sub registrar offices.

Announcing the roll out of e-stamping from November 2014, Mr. Majithia said that in the first phase SAS Nagar, Jalandhar and Bathinda would be covered as Pilot Districts and in December Patiala, Sangrur, Ropar and Amritsar would be covered and by next 6-8 months entire state would be covered by state of art e-stamping system.

Mr. NS Kang, Financial Commissioner Revenue was also present in the meeting.

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CABINET AMENDS PUNJAB MINOR MINERAL RULES, 2013 FOR SUPPLYING CHEAP SAND/GRAVEL TO THE PEOPLE

· 37 QUARRIES ALLOTTED TO PSIEC; MANDI BOARD AUTHORISED TO TRANSPORT CHEAP SAND/ GRAVEL FROM PIT HEADS

· CONSUMERS TO HAVE OPTION OF BOOKING SAND/ GRAVEL AT MARKET COMMITTEE OFFICES

· 13034 ETT TEACHERS UNDER RURAL DEVELOPMENT AND PANCHAYAT DEPARTMENT TO BE MERGED IN EDUCATION DEPARTMENT

· NOD FOR MERGING 583 VETERINARY DOCTORS OF RURAL DEVELOPMENT AND PANCHAYAT DEPARTMENT IN ANIMAL HUSBANDRY DEPARTMENT

· GREEN SIGNAL FOR LEVYING WATER CESS @ RS.50 PER ACRE PER CROP FOR MAINTAINING AND CLEANING OF THE MINORS AND DISTRIBUTARIES

· GRAM PANCHAYAT LAND LEASE POLICY AMENDED

· GO AHEAD FOR AMENDING THE PUNJAB STATE LEGISLATURE MEMBERS (PENSION AND MEDICAL FACILITIES REGULATION) ACT, 1977

· GROUP A AND B RULES OF TECHNICAL EDUCATION DEPARTMENT NOTIFIED

CHANDIGARH, SEPTEMBER 2-

In a significant decision aimed at checking spiraling prices of the Sand/ gravel in the state, the Punjab Cabinet today gave green signal for amending Punjab Minor Mineral Rules, 2013 thereby allowing the Industries department to allot 37 quarries to the Punjab State Industrial Export Corporation (PSIEC) at a fixed rate of royalty to supply cheap sand/ bajri to the consumers.

A decision to this effect was taken in a meeting of the Council of Ministers chaired by the Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal at CMO, this afternoon.

Disclosing this here today a spokesperson of the Chief Minister's Office said that the PSIEC would ensure the supply of sand/ bajri at pit head level on a fair price whereas the Punjab Mandi Board would supply the minerals to the consumers at their doorsteps or at market committee yards by charging transport rates fixed by the transport department on kilometer basis. The consumer would have the option of booking their demand of sand/ gravel at Market committee level also.

The Cabinet also decided to bifurcate the post of Director Industries and Mining. A separate officer of the requisite seniority would be posted as Director Mining, whose sole responsibility would be to look after the mining of minor minerals in the state and supply thereof. The Cabinet also authorized the Industries and Agriculture Ministers to remove any difficulty coming in the way of implementing this policy.

In another major decision, the Cabinet also decided to merge 13034 sanctioned posts of ETT teachers in the 5772 schools run by the Rural Development and Panchayat Department in the state Education department.

Likewise, the Cabinet also approved the merger of 583 posts of Rural Veterinary Officers working in 582 Civil Veterinary Hospitals managed and run by the Rural Development and Panchayat Department in the Animal Husbandry.

The Cabinet also decided to abolish the 'Abiana' charged from the farmers @ Rs 150 per acre per crop. In a bid to maintain and clean the existing Minors and distributaries in the state, the Cabinet also approved to levy water cess @ Rs.50 per acre per crop instead of Abiana by amending the Indian Canal & Drainage Act, 1873. This decision would help in mobilizing sufficient funds for the proper maintenance and cleaning of these Minors and distributaries.

The Cabinet also decided that a master plan of the Irrigation network be prepared for providing required irrigation water to the farmers through a robust canal system. It was also decided to set up water users committees at XEN level. This Committee under the respective XEN would collect the cleaning cess and also ensure its use for cleaning minors and distributaries in the jurisdiction of respective committees. The Cabinet also decided that an amount equal to the cleaning cess collected in the state would be contributed by the state government which would be used for rejuvenating and cleaning the canal network in the state. The users of canal water would oversee the utilization of this cess. The cleaning cess would be levied on only those farmers who used canal water.

The Cabinet also gave approval to amend the Gram Panchayat land lease policy thereby authorizing the concerned Deputy Commissioner of the district for approving the lease of gram panchayat land (shamlat) for 33 years for setting up the projects cleared by the department of Power and Punjab Energy Development Agency (PEDA). Under the amended policy the annual rate of lease has also been reduced from 10% to 5%. This decision would not only curtail inordinate delay in the leasing out gram panchayat land but also help the prospective investors for quick implementation of solar power and other renewable energy projects duly approved by the power department and PEDA.

The Cabinet also gave go ahead for amending the Punjab State Legislature Members (Pension and Medical Facilities Regulation) Act, 1977 with retrospective effect thereby allowing pension on a graded scale to an MLA who has been elected as such but not disqualified.

In a move aimed at ensuring the recruitment and promotion of all the categories in Group A and B of Technical Education and Industrial Training department, the Cabinet also gave ex-post facto approval for notifying Rules of the department.

The Cabinet also authorized the Excise and Taxation Minister to review and rationalize the VAT levied on aerated drinks and cigarettes. The Cabinet, similarly also authorized the Transport Minister to review and rationalize the registration fee levied on four wheeler vehicles.

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PUNJAB GOVERNMENT APPOINTS PaNeL OF INVESTIGATION OFFICERS

Chandigarh, September 02:

The Punjab government has appointed a panel of investigation officers for investigation under Rules 1970 Punjab Civil Services (Punishment and Appeal). A Communiqué has already been issued to all Heads of the departments in this regard.

Disclosing this here today a spokesman of the Punjab Government said that panel included retired officers included Mr. S.S.Talwar (Retd. IAS), Mr. B.R.Bansal, Retd. Additional District and Session Judge, Mr. B.C.Gupta, Retd. PSS and Mr. Amarjit Singh Kataria, Retd. Additional District and Session Judge had been appointed in the panel.

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PUNJAB DEPUTY CM NOT TO HOLD SANGAT DARSHAN ON SEPTEMBER 3

Chandigarh September 2 :

Punjab Deputy Chief Minister Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal will not be hold "Sangat Darshan" at Punjab Bhawan Chandigarh on Wednesday i.e. September 3, 2014 due to public holiday on account of Birthday of Baba Sri Chand Ji. This was disclosed by here today Media Advisor to Deputy Chief Minister Punjab Mr. Jangveer Singh.

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VIGILANCE NABS ASI IN GRAFT CASE

CHANDIGARH, AUGUST 2:

Vigilance Bureau today nabbed an ASI red handed while receiving bribe or Rs. 18,000.

Disclosing this here today an official spokesperson of the Vigilance Bureau said that ASI Randip Singh posted at Police Station Moonak, District Sangrur was nabbed on the complaint of Mr. Jagraj Singh who was working as driver with PRTC. In his complaint Jagraj Singh alleged that ASI Randip Singh was demanding bribe or Rs. 18,000 from him to settle a case of internal dispute and clash during strike.

Acting on the tip off, a trap was laid by the team of Vigilance Bureau, Patiala headed by Inspector Paramjit Singh and ASI Randip Singh was arrested red handed while accepting bribe of Rs. 18,000 from the complainant.

AAM AADMI PARTY WILL MEET THE FATE SAME AS BY-POLL IN ASSEMBLY ELECTIONS – BADAL

AAM AADMI PARTY HAS LOST ITS CREDIBILITY IN MASSES

WE WILL CANVASS AGAINST ANTI-SIKH CONGRESS PARTY IN HARYANA ASSEMBLY ELECTIONS

Bangi Ruldu Singh (Bathinda), September 1-

Rubbishing the claims of Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) to form government in Punjab after 2017 assembly elections as a ‘fool’s paradise’, the Chief Minister Punjab Mr. Parkash Singh Badal said that the AAP would meet the same fate as it had in the recently concluded by-elections where the party candidates’ securities too were forfeited.

Talking to media persons on thanks giving tour of Talwandi Sabo assembly segment Mr. Badal said that the AAP candidates have lost their securities in the Talwandi Sabo and Patiala by-elections which was an indicator enough to make AAP workers realize that the party was near oblivion in Punjab. He added that though in a democratic country every person has right to contest elections but people repose faith in only those parties that have credibility and that work on the path of serving masses.

He said that the people of Delhi gave AAP an opportunity to form its government but party president Mr. Arvind Kejriwal betrayed their faith by resigning from the post of Chief Minister. Mr. Badal added that the intelligent voters will never believe a party that betrayed people.

He added that for the past seven years the stable SAD-BJP alliance in state is ushering in development and prosperity and due to its credibility the people of Punjab have re-elected it creating a history.

When asked about the Indian National Lok Dal leader Mr. Dushyant Chautala selecting Mr. Parkash Singh Badal as the main campaigner for INLD in Haryana assembly elections, Mr. Badal said that he would canvass to dislodge anti-Sikh Congress from Haryana.

At the thanks giving tour, Mr. Badal directed water supply department to ensure that water paucity in every village were solved so that people do not face any kind of problem.

The Chief Minister today expressed gratitude to the people of Jeevan Singh Wala, Naseeb Pura, Kot Bakhtu, Bangi Ruldu Singh, Bangi Nihal Singh, Bangi Ruldu and Bangi Deepa villages for emerging Mr. Jeet Mohinder Singh Sidhu victorious from the constituency with a record margin which has infused energy in the cadre.

Prominent amongst others who were present on the occasion included cabinet minister Mr. Sharanjit Singh Dhillon, constituency MLA Mr. Jeet Mohinder Singh Sidhu, Akali leader Mr. Amarjit Singh Khana, Mr. Vardev Singh Mann, district Sri Muktsar Sahib’s SAD president Mr Manjit Singh Barkandi, SGPC executive member Mr. Mohan Singh Bangi and SAD district press secretary Mr. Om Prakash Sharma. Besides this the CM’s special principal secretary KJS Cheema, DIG Mr. Amar Singh Chahal, deputy commissioner Dr Basant Garg and SSP Bathinda Gurpreet Singh Bhullar also accompanied.

CM DEMANDS SETTING UP OF EXAMINATION CENTER FOR UPSC'S CIVIL SERVICES EXAM AT JALANDHAR OR LUDHIANA

· FLAGS UP THIS ISSUE WITH UNION MINISTER OF STATE, PERSONNEL AND TRAINING DR. JITENDRA SINGH

Chandigarh, August 31-

In a bid to facilitate the aspirants from the state to appear in the Civil Services Exam in a hassle free manner, the Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal has urged the Union Minister of state, Personnel and Training Dr. Jitendra Singh to set up an examination centre either at Ludhiana or Jalandhar, which were the centrally located.

In a letter to Dr. Jitendra Singh, the Chief Minister apprised him that thousands of students from the state appear for Civil Services examination conducted by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) annually. He pointed out that at present there was no examination center in the state adding that Chandigarh being the nearest centre, all of the students from Punjab have to come here for appearing in the prestigious examination. Many of these students have to travel a distance of 300 km to reach Chandigarh.

Narrating the hardships faced by the students, the Chief Minister further said that as the exam starts in the early morning, students could not take risk of traveling from their hometown to Chandigarh on the day of the exam, henceforth most of them have to travel a day prior to the exam and make arrangements for their boarding and lodging at Chandigarh. He said that apart from other inconveniences, this also resulted in a lot of economic hardships to the poor students, especially from the rural areas of border districts, being located farthest from the capital city. Pleading the case for hapless aspirants of this coveted exam, Mr. Badal mentioned that there were several instances where bright students from disadvantaged background have not even filled the form due to resultant economic hardships. Thus, he sought the Union Minister's immediate intervention resolve this issue of priority by setting up atleast one examination centre in the state for ensuring equal opportunity to all.

FORMATION OF HARYANA SIKH GURDWARA JUDICIAL COMMISSION ETHICALLY WRONG SINCE MATTER OF SEPARATE GURUDWARA COMMITTEE SUB JUDICE IN APEX COURT - BADAL

· CONGRESS HAS DIVIDED STATES WITH DIVIDE AND RULE POLICY

· TO TAKE UP ISSUE OF PUNJABI FARMERS NOT BEING GIVEN VISA TO GEORGIA WITH UNION GOVT

· CONGRESS A PACK OF LIARS

· ON SECOND-DAY OF THANKS GIVING TOUR, BADAL VISITS NINE VILLAGES

Lehri (Bathinda), August 31

Terming the move to form Haryana Sikh Gurdwara Judicial Commission as a wrong step, the Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal said that the Haryana government was meddling into the Sikh religious affairs since the matter lay sub judice in the apex court.

While interacting with media persons on the second day of thanks giving tour in Talwandi Sabo Assembly Constituency, the Chief Minister said that the issue of separate committee was under judicial consideration in the Supreme Court and making any move to form Haryana Sikh Judicial Commission would not only be legally incorrect but also ethically wrong. He said that the Congress has always followed its age old policy to divide and rule wherein it has divided states and people and to rule over them.

The Chief Minister said that Haryana’s CM Bhupinder Singh Hooda was taking such wrongful step on the behest of Congress high command to divide Sikh community in different states and taking decisions against them. Holding Congress responsible for hatching a conspiracy, Badal said that while the matter was sub judice in court, it was illegal to form the judicial commission and appoint office bearers of the same.

He added that the Hooda government was supporting that faction demanding separate committee whom Sikhs of Haryana have already rejected giving them a crushing defeat leading to even forfeiture of their security deposits during general elections of Shiromani Gurudwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC).

The Chief Minister today reiterated that SGPC represents Sikhs whose foundation has been laid on the sacrifices of thousands of Sikh martyrs. He added that in Maharashtra the ruling state Congress government has marginalized representation of SGPC in the Takht Sri Hazoor Sahib Board yielding to nefarious designs of the Congress high command and has given proof of being anti-Sikh.

He added that by taking such decision, the Maharashtra government has tried to disrupt peace of Sikh community and this move cannot be considered morally, politically, religiously or legally justified.

Taking up the issue of Georgia refusing visa to the Punjab farmers, Mr. Badal said that though such international issues were responsibility of the union government, he would urge the center to intervene in the issue so that the interests of Punjabi farmers, who have made agriculture investments in Georgia, were safeguarded.

Slamming state Congress over its allegations of emptying the state coffers, the Chief Minister said that except for making baseless statements Congress was left with nothing else to say. He said that during the SAD-BJP government’s regime the state has witnessed all round development and prosperity through implementation of pro-poor initiatives whereas Congress had formed government claiming to fight for the poor, but did nothing tangible for this underprivileged section of society. Mr. Badal categorically said that there was no paucity of funds for the development of the state and prosperity of its people and hence Congress should refrain from making such baseless statements just to score brownie points.

The Chief Minister today expressed gratitude to the people of Natheha, Nangla, Lehri, Singho, Behman Kaur Singh, Behman Jassa Singh, Gurusar, Fatehgarh Nauabad and Leleana villages for emerging Mr. Jeet Mohinder Singh Sidhu victorious from the constituency with a record margin. He listened to the grievances of the people and monitor progress of ongoing development works.

Prominent amongst others who were present on the occasion included Senior SAD leader and Rajya Sabha Member Mr. Balwinder Singh Bhunder, MLA Mr. Jeet Mohinder Singh Sidhu, PUNSUP Chairman Mr. Sukhwinder Singh Aulakh, Akali leader Mr. Amarjit Singh Khana, former MLA Jagdeep Singh Nakkai, former Principal Secretary to CM Darbara Singh Guru besides Special Principal Secretary to CM Mr. KJS Cheema.

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CHIEF SECRETARY ORDERS INSPECTION OF ALL SUWIDHA CENTRES

· TEAMS CONSTITUTED FOR 2 DAY INSPECTION OF ALL DISTRICTS

· TO SUBMIT REPORT ON TIMELY DELIVERY OF CITIZEN SERVICES

Chandigarh, August 31: The Chief Secretary, Punjab Mr. Sarvesh Kaushal, IAS has ordered the officers of the Department of Governance Reforms to inspect all SUWIDHA Centres of the State on 2nd & 4th September, 2014 as part of sustained efforts of the state in bringing improvement in delivery of services to the citizens at SUWIDHA centers.

Accordingly Department of Governance Reforms has deputed its 22 Officers/Officials to visit all the Districts separately. As per orders, Mrs. Navdeep Kaur, Mr. Kalwarn Singh, Mr. Ankit Agarwal, Mr. Vivek Vatsa, Mr. Sahil Abrol, Mr. Mohit Saini, Mr. Manuj Sayal, Mr. Anshul Mishra, Mr. Abhishek Shukla, Mr. Dharam Singh, Mr. Sunil Wig, Mr. Ani Prakash Goyal, Mrs. Ravinder Kaur, Mr. Ashish Kumar, Mr. Devesh Sharma, Mr. Anwar, Mr. Ishu Das, Mr. Sumit Garg, Mr. Amritpal Singh, Mr. Kuldip Singh, Mr. Pankaj Mohan and Mr. Parveen Garg have been directed to conduct inspection of SUWIDHA centres in the districts Amritsar, Barnala, Bathinda, Faridkot, Fatehgarh Sahib, Fazilka, Ferozepur, Gurdaspur, Hoshiarpur, Jalandhar, Kapurthala, Ludhiana, Mansa, Moga, SAS Nagar, Mukatsar, S.B.S Nagar, Pathankot, Patiala, Roopnagar, Sangrur and Tarn Taran respectively.

The inspecting officers have been directed to inspect the overall functioning of SUWIDHA centres in terms of timely delivery of services, citizen facilitation and services being charged, upkeep of the centres and other operational and monitoring systems. They have been directed to conduct inspections of the SUWIDHA centres at District, Tehsil and Sub-Tehsil level.

3RD SEPTEMBER TO BE HOLIDAY INSTEAD OF SEPT 4

CHANDIGARH, AUGUST 31:

The Punjab government today announced that 3rd September would be gazetted holiday instead of 4th September to mark the birth anniversary of Baba Sri Chand ji.

Disclosing this here today an official spokesperson said that Punjab Government has amended its notification regarding public holidays and declared 3rd September, 2014 as gazetted holiday instead of 4th September.

CM BEGINS THREE-DAY THANKSGIVING TOUR OF TALWANDI SABO ASSEMBLY CONSTITUENCY

LAYS FOUNDATION STONE OF VEGETABLE MARKET

TALWANDI SABO, AUGUST 30

Expressing concern over the incident of brawl in Kuwait wherein 24 Punjabi youths have been detained by the Kuwait police, the Chief Minister Punjab Parkash Singh Badal today said that he would soon talk to the Union Minister for External Affairs Smt. Sushma Swaraj for immediately providing all possible help to the Punjabis in distress and urge the Government of India to make use of all diplomatic channels to ensure for their safety and security.

While talking to the media persons on the first day of his three-day thanksgiving tour in the Talwandi Sabo assembly constituency, Mr. Badal said that the secretary of External Affairs Ministry, GoI had informed him about the efforts being made to help the Punjabis injured and arrested in Kuwait brawl. He said that union government was only authorized to take up such issues with the other countries where the states had no role to play except urging the center to take appropriate action in such cases. Mr. Badal reiterated that he would soon take up this issue with the Union Minister for External Affairs to ensure the safety of the Punjabi youth detained there.

When asked about the rising dissent in Congress workers of state against the Congress state president Pratap Singh Bajwa after losing the Talwandi Sabo seat with a huge margin, Badal said that since it was internal matter of the Congress party, he would not comment on it.

Taking stock of the developmental works being executed in the constituency, Mr. Badal directed heads of the various departments to ensure quality and transparency in every possible way. The Chief Minister also directed that these projects would be inspected after one month and if any irregularity is found in the work subsequently stern action would be taken against the erring officials.

Addressing the representatives of panchayats and wards, Mr. Badal asked them to be extra vigilant when the surveys of beneficiary schemes were conducted to ensure that every genuine beneficiary must get benefit of these schemes. Especially the fruits of these schemes meant for underprivileged section must percolate at the grass root level without any bias, he said.

During the program, the Chief Minister patiently listened to the grievances of residents of all 13 wards from Talwandi Sabo and Raman Mandi and asked the concerned officers/officials to resolve these problems at the earliest.

Thanking the people of constituency, Mr. Badal said that by making the Shiromani Akali Dal-BJP candidate Mr. Jeet Mohinder Singh Sidhu’s victory by a huge margin, the constituency’s people have created a history.

Mr. Badal said that this victory has invigorated new enthusiasm in the party leaders and workers alike. He said that this spectacular victory is the triumph of pro-people policies and programs of SAD-BJP government.

Earlier, the Chief Minister laid foundation stone of new sabji mandi to be constructed over an area of 1.18 acres at a cost of Rs 1.23 cr and would be completed within three months.

The Chief Minister earlier in the morning also visited the Sri Dasmesh Senior Secondary School and announced to give it basic infrastructure. Mr. Badal said that Sri Dasmesh Sahib Academy Anandpur Sahib’s director Major General (retd) J.S. Ghuman has been asked to give his valuable advice and inputs on making Sri Dasmesh Senior Secondary School a top-notch school of region. The CM’s was accompanied by special principal secretary Mr. KJS Cheema.

Prominent amongst others who were present on the occasion included education minister Mr. Sikandar Singh Maluka, Chief Parliamentary Secretary Sant Balbir Singh Ghunas, Justice (retd) Nirmal Singh, Mr. Darshan Singh Kotfatta, Mr. Prem Prakash, Mr. Chitan Singh Samao (all MLAs), Akali leader Mr. Amarjit Singh Khana and Bathinda’s former Mayor Mr. Baljit Singh Birbehman besides several senior Akali leaders and party workers of SAD and BJP.

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CM CALLS UP SUSHMA SWARAJ FOR ENSURING SAFETY AND SECURITY OF DETAINED PUNJABIS IN KUWAIT

EXPRESSES SOLIDARITY WITH DISTRESSED FAMILIES

SWARAJ ASSURES CM OF ALL POSSIBLE HELP AND ASSISTANCE TO ENSURE SAFETY AND SECURITY OF DETAINED PUNJABIS

Chandigarh, August 30-

Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today called up the Union External Affairs Minister Mrs. Sushma Swaraj to ensure the safety and security of Punjabis, who were taken into custody by the Kuwaiti police following a brawl on Thursday.

Disclosing this here today a spokesperson of Chief Minister’s Office said that during the telephonic conversation, Mr. Badal apprised the Union Minister about the plight of detained Punjabis who were passing through extreme mental harassment and agony at the hands of Kuwaiti authorities. Seeking prompt intervention of Union government for ensuring the safety of detained Punjabis, the Chief Minister said that the Union government should make all out efforts for saving their precious lives. Mr. Badal said that it was the high time that the Union government must use all the diplomatic channels for ensuring the security of these detained Punjabis in Kuwait.

The Chief Minister said that though it was beyond the state government’s jurisdiction help to help the people in other countries and therefore the Punjab government appeals to the Government of India (GoI) to take a prompt action for saving the life of these Punjabis. Expressing solidarity with the families of the arrested Punjabis, Mr. Badal said that the state government was solidly with them in this hour of crisis.

Responding to the issue, Mrs. Swaraj assured the Chief Minister that she was personally keeping a close tab on the situation and have already directed the Secretary External Affairs (Gulf) GoI to keep close liaison with the Kuwait Foreign ministry to ensure the safety and security of the detained Punjabis.

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Soon Biometric Attendance System in all Punjab Offices-Sukhbir Badal

· Asks Chief Secretary to initiate the project besides time bound completion

· Dhanis would be connected with uninterrupted power supply lines

· Policy on advanced stage for cleaning of canals for irrigation purpose

· Deputy CM scripts new chapter in Sangat Darshan by holding maiden program at New Delhi

New Delhi/Chandigarh, August 30: Punjab Deputy Chief Minister Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal today decided to install Biometric Attendance devices in each and every public office in Punjab at Chandigarh as well as in districts and other field offices to ensure punctuality and discipline amongst public servants with a view to facilitate common masses.

While adding new chapter in ongoing series of Sangat Darshans by holding his maiden Sangat Darshan Program here for on the spot solution of public issues, Mr. Badal resolving a plaint regarding deficient presence of some officers of Revenue Department directed the Punjab Chief Secretary to prepare a detailed proposal for installation of Biometric Attendance System in all Punjab offices. He assured the complainants that they have decided to complete this project on priority to avert the harassment being faced by general public in future. He said that these Biometric devices would be linked with a centralized control room to keep record of employees coming to office and when they clock out.

Mr. Badal said Department Heads would monitor the function of devices at headquarter while Deputy Commissioners would be responsible for same at district levels.

On the issue of maintenance of Dhanis besides providing them basic amenities, the Deputy CM announced that the state was preparing a policy to facilitate the residents of Dhanis with uninterrupted power supply and other basic amenities. He said the state will also take cooperation from the owners of houses residing in dhanis. He also said that the canals flowing beside the villages would be cleansed regularly before the season so the farmers can use the continue flow of water for irrigation purpose. He said for this purpose a Punjab was contemplating a policy under which a committee would be formed in each district comprising Executive Engineers of Irrigation Department and local residents and farmers.

On a plaint to initiate an enquiry of link road, which was being built in Abohar from village Bahawal to Kera Khera near Balluana, Mr. Badal asked Secretary PWD Mr. P.S. Aujla to look into the matter. Mr. Badal said the report in this regard should be submitted in a week.

Deputy Chief Minister also directed the heads of all departments, Divisional Commissioners, Deputy Commissioners, Police Commissioners, Senior Superintendents of Police, Senior Power and Revenue officers to patiently hear the public grievances besides ensuring timely justice delivery. He said all concerned authority should resolve the public plaints within a week reducing the pendency of complaints.

Meanwhile, Mr. Badal resolved more than 377 complaints on the spot out of total 417 and reports have been sought from concerned authorities in rest of cases. The complaints were pertaining to Revenue, Police, Electricity, Irrigation, PWD, Panchayats and Local Bodies department.

Mr. Badal also gave a call to common masses to come forward with their relevant issues, if any, in Sangat Darshan Programs so that closes check could be maintained on efficiency and functioning of public offices.

Prominent amongst those present on the occasion included Mr. PS Aujla, Principal Secretary to Deputy CM, Mr. Ajay Mahajan and Mr. Manvesh Singh Sidhu both Special Principal Secretaries to Deputy CM and senior officers of various departments.

Punjab to host 5th World Kabaddi Cup from December 5 to 15-Sukhbir Badal

Men and Women semifinals to be played in Pakistan

Chandigarh, August 30- Punjab Deputy Chief Minister Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal today approved revised dates of 5th edition of World Kabaddi Cup on the proposal of Kabaddi organizations from various countries. As per the new dates, this mega event of Punjab’s traditional game will now commence from December 5 to 15.

This decision was taken in a meeting with the representatives of various Kabaddi organizations of world, who were here to apprise Deputy CM about clashing of dates due to grand finale of Wave World Kabaddi League on November 29.

In view of date clashing, Mr. Badal asked Secretary Sports Mr. P.S. Aujla to prepare a revised schedule with the commencement of World Kabaddi Cup from December 5 to 15. He also directed that there will be no change in the venue of both men and women semi-finals, which would be held in Pakistan whether in Lahore or anywhere as per the convenience of Government of Punjab Province.

Mr. Badal, who is also Sports Minister, informed that there would be 10 teams participating in World Kabaddi Cup namely India, Pakistan, Argentina, USA, UK, Scotland, Canada, Sierra Leon, Spain, Kenya and Denmark in men discipline whereas in women category teams from India, Pakistan, New Zealand, Kenya, UK, Malaysia, Denmark and Mexico would participate. He said that these Kabaddi titans would vie for Rs. 6.97 crore total prize money out of which champion in men and women categories would be awarded with Rs. 2 crore and Rs. 1 crore respectively followed by Rs. 1 crore and Rs. 51 lakh for runners-up in both categories.

The opening and closing venues would remain same with opening at Jalandhar whereas Bathinda would witness the sparkling closing ceremony. Besides that Jalalabad, Chohla Sahib, Sangrur, Hoshiarpur, Gurdaspur, Rupnagar, Khanna and Mansa cities have been selected for other kabbadi matches. Deputy Chief Minister has issued strict instructions to conduct dope tests of players to ensure drug free world cup and also approved the amount of Rs. 30 lakh for the same.

MAJITHIA ANNOUNCES 10-MEMBER ADVISORY COMMITTEE FOR PRSA

RAJA RANDHIR SINGH, RANINDER SINGH AND ABHINAV BINDRA TO ADVISE PRSA

Chandigarh, August 30:

Punjab Rifle Shooting Association (PRSA) President Mr. Bikram Singh Majithia has constituted a 10-member advisory committee for PRSA by including renowned sports administrators and shooters like Raja Randhir Singh,Raninder Singh and Abhinav Bindra

The other members of the committee are Raja K S Sidhu, Manavjeet Singh Sandhu, Ronjon Singh Sodhi, Harveen Srao, Avneet Kaur Sidhu, Heena Sidhu and Mukesh Kumar.

Besides this, Raja KS Sidhu has been nominated as Advisor to the President PRSA. The PRSA President has also nominated Mr. Pawanpreet Singh Dhillon as Chairman PRSA and Mr. Parminder Singh Brar as Vice President & Office Incharge PRSA.

Disclosing this here today, Mr Majithia said the new advisory board would give a fillip to shooting in Punjab. "The PRSA will take help of the experience and expertise of the Advisory Board members to make shooting a professionally run sport in Punjab", he said.

The PRSA president also expressed confidence that under the guidance of these prominent personalities the sport of shooting in Punjab will achieve greater heights and the shooters of the State will bring further laurels to the country.

Mr Majithia also disclosed that PRSA with the support of the State government would promote shooting through a three pronged strategy of creating world class shooting infrastructure, providing need based specialized training and holding quality competitions to produce ace marksmen.

CM SEEKS PERSONAL INTERVENTION JAITLEY AND UMA BHARTI TO RESTART WORK ON THE CANALIZATION OF SAKKI/KIRAN NALLAH IN AMRITSAR AND GURDASPUR DISTRICTS

WRITES SEPARATE LETTERS TO BOTH THE MINISTERS FOR CLEARING THE PROJECT AT THE EARLIEST

STARTED IN 2006 THE WORK ON PROJECT WAS STOPPED BY THE ARMY AUTHORITIES

Chandigarh, August 28-

Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today sought personal intervention of Union Defence Minister Mr. Arun Jaitely and Union Water Resources Minister Ms. Uma Bharti for prompt clearance of the project to restart work on the Canalization of Sakki/Kiran Nallah in Amritsar and Gurdaspur Districts.

In separate letters to both the Union Ministers, Mr. Badal apprised them that this ambitious project, which would play a pivotal role in saving the border districts of state from the scourge of floods, was approved by Government of India (GoI) in June 2006 at a cost of Rs.111.39 crores. Subsequently, he said that the work on this prestigious project was kicked off at that time. However, Mr. Badal said that due to some objections raised by the Army authorities regarding design of bridges in border area the work was halted thereby resulting in the delay in its execution.

The Chief Minister apprised both the Ministers that due to the stopping of construction work the project cost has now escalated to Rs. 400.26 crores adding that now the project has been split into two parts based on Flood Management requirement of Punjab (FMP) and requirement of Army authorities. Likewise, he said that the first phase of project under FMP worth Rs.208.98 crores was to be shared by the Union and State government in the Ratio of 75:25 adding that the Rs 191.29 crore would be borne by the Ministry of Defence, Government of India for the completion of the second phase as per the requirement of Army. Urging both the Ministers to get this project cleared at the earliest for the restarting of work, Mr. Badal said that this ambitious project would prove to be a boon for the border areas of the state.

PUNJAB BATS FOR UPWARD REVISION OF MSP OF VARIOUS CROPS FOR RABI MARKETING SEAON 2015-16

CM RUES MEAGER HIKE OF 3.6% IN THE MSP OF WHEAT AGAINST THE SUGGESTED MARGIN OF 50% OVER AND ABOVE THE COST OF CULTIVATION

BADAL DEPUTES CS TO PURSUE THE MATTER WITH GOI

DEMANDS MSP TO COVER MARKETING COST AND VALUE FOR MANAGERIAL INPUTS OF THE FARMER

Chandigarh, August 28-

The Punjab government has asked the Government of India (GoI) to fix the Minimum Support Price (MSP) of various crops for Rabi marketing season 2015-16 at the levels suggested by it.

Showing deep concern over the report of Commission for Agriculture Costs & Prices (CACP) on the price policy for Rabi crops during the marketing season 2015-16 forwarded to the state government to elicit its comments, the Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal said that the MSP of crops recommended by CACP in view of bulging centre pool stock and double digit inflation was far lower than the Prices suggested by the state and does not even cover the cost of cultivation of crops. Seeking hike in the MSP of the Wheat from Rs.1450 as recommended by CACP to Rs.1900 per quintal in 2015-16, Mr. Badal also sought an upward revision in the MSP of Barley from Rs.1150 to Rs.1517 per quintal. Likewise, he demanded the MSP of Gram to be hiked from Rs.3175 to Rs.3627 per quintal and that of Rapeseed and Mustard from Rs. 3100 to Rs.3484 per quintal.

The Chief Minister further said that it appeared unfair to penalise the farmers in terms of a lower increase in MSP due to a situation caused by improper management of food economy. Mr. Badal cited even the National Farmers' Commission had recommended a margin of 50% over and above the cost of cultivation to make the MSP remunerative whereas CACP a marginal increase of only 3.6% in the MSP of wheat, which was the major Rabi crop of the state and occupied about 85% of the cultivated area during the Rabi season.

Pleading the case for remunerative MSP for the Rabi crops as suggested by the state government, the Chief Minister further pointed out that the cost of agriculture inputs like fertilisers, seeds and labour have increased significantly, which has led to a considerable increase in the cost of production. Likewise, he said that the cost of diesel, which was a primary source of energy for all the mechanised farming operations, has been increasing regularly due to de-regularisation of its prices. The cost of irrigation was also continuously showing upward revision due to lowering of water table and thereby increased investment in deepening of tube wells and replacement of prime movers. The prevailing drought like situation during the monsoon season has further aggravated the situation.

The Chief Minister further mentioned that CACP has made its recommendations keeping in view the interest of producers, consumers and its effect on other sectors of economy but it was a high time to look into other aspects as well viz. viability of farming, adequacy of farm income and investments required for modernization of farming and agriculture infra structure. He opined that MSP should also include not only paid-out cost and imputed cost but also the marketing cost and value for managerial inputs of the farmer due to which he managed his farms through the expertise and skills inherited through generations.

The Chief Minister has deputed the state Chief Secretary Mr. Sarvesh Kaushal to pursue the entire matter with the Secretary Agriculture, GoI Mr. Ashish Bahuguna to impress upon the Centre for seeking upward revision in the MSP of Rabi crops recommended by the CACP in consonance with the prices sought by the state government.

COMMODITY	MSP 2014-15 (In Rs. per quintal)	CACP RECOMMENDATION FOR 2015-16	PRICE SUGGESTED BY STATE GOVERNMENT
Wheat	1400	1450	1900
Barley	1100	1150	1517
Gram	3100	3175	3627
Rapeseed and Mustard	3050	3100	3484

PUNJAB DOUBLES PENSION OF CONSTRUCTION WORKERS

ALSO RAISES EX-GRATIA AMOUNT IN DEATH AND ACCIDENT CASES
EXPECTANT CONSTRUCTION LADY WORKERS TO GET Rs. 5000 MATERNITY ALLOWANCE
CONSTRUCTION WORKERS ALLOWED LTC AFTER EVERY TWO YEARS

CHANDIGARH, AUGUST 28: The Punjab Government today took a major decision for the welfare of registered Construction Workers by raising their pensions up to Rs. 20000 per annum besides facilitating them with Leave Travel Concession after every two years.

Disclosing this here today Labour Minister Mr. Chuni Lal Bhagat said that as per the decisions taken today the registered construction workers would now be entitltled to get minimum pension up to Rs. 5000 and maximum pension up to Rs. 20000 raising it from earlier limit of Rs. 4000 to 10000.

He said that as per decisions taken in 14th Punjab Constructions Workers Welfare Board held here today the construction workers could also avail the facility of Leave Travel Concession for going their hometowns after every two years. The meeting also decided to increase the ex-gratia amount. Mr. Bhagat informed that ex-gratia in the case of death or 100 percent disablitiy in accident has been doubled to Rs. 2 lakh from the earlier limit of Rs. 1 lakh. He said as per the new decision this amount has been increased to Rs. 2 lakh in accidental deaths and in case of natural deaths and 100 percent disability, Rs. 1.5 lakh to be given to the aggrieved parties.

The Minister also informed that now expectant women construction workers and expectant wives of registered construction workers would get Rs. 5000 as maternity allowance for healthcare of both mother and child.

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Complaints received on official e-mail ids to be acknowledged within 24 hours

(Grievances to be resolved within fixed time frame)

Chandigarh August 28: The Punjab government has issued strict directives to officers of all departments directly receiving public grievances on their official e-mail ids created under Administrative Reforms to respond promptly on each and every complaint besides ensuring impartial justice.

In a communiqué in this regard the Punjab Government has directed the authorities concerned that Administrative Reforms Department has created their exclusive e-mail ids to facilitate common masses seeking justice from various departments. The communiqué also revealed that it has come to the notice of the department that some of the departments and officers concerned were not informing the complainants and not taking the public grievances seriously.

Disclosing this here today an official spokesperson said that instructions in this regard have been conveyed to all Financial Commissioners, Principal Secretaries and Administrative Secretaries for the compliance of the directions. He said that all concerned have been directed to resolve the public grievances being received on their e-mail ids besides ensuring timely and according to rules delivery of justice. He said it has also been directed to ensure the acknowledgement receipt to the complainant within 24 hours of filing of complaint.

The Spokesperson said all concerned would also inform the complainants about time line of resolving public grievances. He said that all the departments were being online for the facilitation of common masses and the officers directly looking after public dealing sections would route all the files through online system besides ensuring speedy and time bound justice to the complainants.

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BADAL HAILS CENTER'S PROPOSAL TO ALLOW DIRECT FOREIGN TRADE STATES

· DECISION SIGNALS NEW OPPORTUNITY FOR GROWTH IN STATES: BADAL

CHANDIGARH, AUGUST 28

Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today welcomed
the center's move to allow States to directly market their own
products and services to other countries and hence become ambassadors of their products.

The move marks the fulfillment of a long standing demand raised
by the Punjab Chief Minister at various fora to decentralize export
process. Disclosing this here today a spokesperson of the Chief
Minister's office said that Mr. Badal had always advocated the direct trading system between a state and countries of its choice.
Commending the proposal, which was presently with the
Ministry of External Affairs for granting permission to the states for
opening Trade Desks with other country, Mr. Badal said that an era of new trade regime would begin with this decision. He also urged the Centre to expedite the process in this regard so that the states would be immensely benefitted.

It may be recalled that the center has asked Indian
embassies across the world to provide space to states to show their trade and commerce potential and facilitate exports. The biggest beneficiary f this proposal would the Punjab farmers whose produce and its value added products would find new markets all across the world, thus bringing remunerative prices for the producers. The SAD BJP government had been urging the previous UPA government also to introduce direct trading system between states and foreign countries for encouraging economic growth of the Country, but issue had never been seriously take-up by that government.

CM BATS FOR LOWER RATES OF INTEREST ON LOANS FOR POOR

HAILS MODI FOR TAKING THIS PRO-POOR INITIATIVE

STATE WOULD LEAD THE NATION IN ACCOMPLISHING THE TARGETS OF THIS SCHEME MUCH BEFORE THE SET DEADLINE

NONE OF ANY MINISTER WAS TAINTED IN PUNJAB CABINET

DIWEDI’S SERMON NOT BINDING ON THEM

BREAKING OF ALLIANCE BETWEEN HJC AND BJP THEIR INTERNAL MATTER

POACHING OF GILL BY BJP AGAINST THE COALITION DHARMA

Chandigarh, August 28-

Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today called upon the bankers to liberally sanction loans at low rates of interest to the poor and economically depressed sections of the society to ensure their financial autonomy.

Addressing the beneficiaries, after launching the “Prime Minister’s Jan Dhan Yojna” here at Guru Nanak Dev Bhawan, the Chief Minister said that bankers could play a pro-active role in bringing down the existing exorbitant rates of interest on the loans advanced to the poor and underprivileged strata of the society. He underscored the need to provide these loans at nominal rates which would not only ensure the financial empowerment of the poor but also guarantee the recovery of these loans. Mr. Badal said that the very intent and purpose behind the concept of nationalization of banking sector could only be served meaningfully provided majority of economically deprived sections of society were propelled towards financial inclusion.

Hailing the scheme which was the brain child of the Prime Minister Mr. Narendra Modi to ameliorate the lot of poor and disadvantaged sections, the Chief Minister said that it would certainly prove to be a milestone in transforming their destiny, which were till now leading a life in penury. He announced that Punjab, which was the frontrunner state, would also lead the nation in accomplishing the target of opening saving accounts under the scheme much before the national deadline of January 26, 2015.

The Chief Minister, while highly appreciating the firm commitment and dedication of Mr. Modi, said that this scheme would surely act as a catalyst to encompass the majority of country’s populace within the ambit of banking fold. Giving sole credit to Prime Minister for this historic decision, he said that it was unprecedented in the history of Indian polity that a pro-poor initiative of such vast magnitude had been swiftly implemented with strong political will and determination. Mr. Badal further said that this was evident from the fact that the scheme was formally announced by the Prime Minister during his address on Independence Day from the ramparts of Red Fort and today exactly after 13 days it has been launched across the country in true letter and spirit.

On the occasion the Chief Minister also handed over the banking kits to 50 beneficiaries as a token scheme’s launch.

Earlier, the Executive Director of SLBC Convener Bank Mr. Gauri Shankar welcomed the Chief Minister and gave a brief account of the scheme.

Later talking to the media persons, the Chief Minister said that there was no tainted leader in the Punjab Cabinet adding that it was sole prerogative of Prime Minister Mr. Narendra Modi to take any appropriate action against such Ministers, if any, as per the verdict of apex court.

Asked to comment on the statement of Congress General Secretary Mr. Janardhan Diwedi advising the political leaders above 70 years to denounce active politics, the Chief Minister said that Mr. Diwedi’s ‘sermon’ was no more a judgement of Supreme Court and binding on them.

The Chief Minister declined to comment on the breaking of alliance between HJC and BJP in Haryana assembly elections terming it as their own issue. Referring to any initiative on his part for forging alliance between BJP and INLD in Haryana, he said that it was the internal matter of both the parties to have alliance or abstain from it.

The Chief Minister, while terming the induction of SAD leader and former DGP Mr. PS Gill in BJP as unfortunate, said that both the SAD and BJP should refrain from poaching the leaders of each others party, as it was violation of coalition Dharma.

The Chief Minister was accompanied by Cabinet Minister Mr. Parminder Singh Dhindsa, his Advisor Mr. Mahesh Inder Singh Grewal, MLA Mr. Manpreet Singh Aiyaali, his Principal Secretary Mr. SK Sandhu, Special Secretary Expenditure Ms. Guneet Tej and Deputy Commissioner Mr. Rajat Aggarwal.

DR. CHEEMA BATS FOR STRICT IMPLEMENTATION OF ADMINISTRATIVE REFORMS IN PUNJAB EDUCATION BOARD

CHANDIGARH, AUGUST 28:

In a bid to ensure the proper implementation of administrative reforms in Punjab Education Board, Dr. Daljit Singh Cheema, Education Minister held a high level meeting with the senior officers of the education board. The minister asked the board authorities to make sure time bound and hassle free delivery of services to the students.

Dr. Cheema mentioned that students have to face many hardships when they come to Punjab Education Board for getting their work done. While listing out the problems of the students, he said that students face difficulty for getting duplicate certificates; verification of the certificates and during getting their roll numbers and result. He asked the Board authorities to provide the services to the students under Single Window System under one roof. He also directed the authorities ensure the delivery of such services in transparent manner to check corrupt practices.

Education Minster also emphasized the need for beautification of the surrounding of educational institutions by ensuring proper landscaping and plantation of more and more trees. He directed the Chairperson of the School Education Board to act proactively to curb the incident of mass-copying during examinations.

Mrs. Anjali Bhawra, Principal Secretary, Mr. Gurdeep Singh, Special Secretary, Mrs. Tejinder Kaur Dhaliwal, Chairperson of Punjab Education Board, Mr. Kuldip Chand Agnihotri, Vice Chairperson and Mr. Gurnider Singh Bath, Secretary of the Education Board were present during the meeting.

CM EXPRESSES CONCERN OVER GROWING TREND OF ‘BRAIN DRAIN’ AMONGST DOCTORS

CALLS UPON MEDICAL STUDENTS TO SERVE THE STATE ZEALOUSLY INSTEAD OF EMIGRATING ABROAD

STATE TO EMERGE AS A HUB A CANCER TREATMENT ACROSS THE GLOBE

PRESIDES OVER THE CONVOCATION IN GOVERNMENT MEDICAL COLLEGE PATIALA

ANNOUNCES CASH AWARD OF Rs. ONE LAKH FOR STUDENTS BAGGING GOLD MEDAL IN ACADEMICS

VISITS RESIDENCE OF BHAGWAN DASS JUNEJA TO MOURN THE DEATH OF HIS SON

Patiala, August 27-

Showing deep concern over the growing trend of ‘brain drain’ amongst the highly qualified Doctors and specialists, the Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today exhorted the medical students to serve the state and its people zealously instead of going abroad in search of ‘green pastures’.

Addressing the students on the ninth convocation of the Government Medical College Patiala here today, the Chief Minister lamented that it was a colossal wastage of resources on preparing Doctors and Super specialists if they emigrate to the countries across the globe for the advancement of their career. Urging the students to serve the ailing mankind in the state especially in the rural and difficult areas like border and kandi, Mr. Badal said that their services were far more needed here and he was sure that they would derive lot of satisfaction, while serving the needy and unprivileged sections of society. He said that it was the need of the hour to reverse the trend of ‘brain drain’ in which the Doctors were emotionally swayed to settle abroad for the sake of name and fame.

Unfolding the perspective of the state government to emerge as a major hub of Super Specialty treatment of Cancer treatment, the Chief Minister said that the setting up of the Homi Bhabha Cancer Treatment and Research Center at Mullanpur (New Chandigarh) under the auspices of Tata Memorial Cancer Institute, Mumbai was a step towards this direction. He said that the state government has already made elaborate arrangements to provide state of the art treatment to the patients afflicted with the cancer in the Government Medical Colleges at Amritsar, Patiala and Faridkot besides the upcoming ultra modern Cancer treatment centers in Bathinda and Sangrur. Likewise, Mr. Badal said that the state government had already declared a war on drugs and crores of Rupees were being spent on the establishment of Drug de-addiction centers and Rehabilitation centers for drug addicts across the state. The state government had already sanctioned aplenty of funds for the recruitment of Doctors, psychiatrists and para medics to run these institutions efficiently besides providing free medicines to the patients.

Highlighting the significance of Skill training, the Chief Minister said that the state government was fully seized with the problem of growing unemployment and the only solution to tackle this menace, especially amongst the college/ school drop outs, was to impart Skill training in different fields to enable them to earn their livelihood. He said that the state government has set a target of training nearly one lakh youth annually under various skill development programs in order to cater the needs of the local industry. Mr. Badal also mentioned that the state government has already prepared a detailed program to impart skill training in para medics and 32 other related courses across the state. He also appreciated the efforts of GOMCO Patiala alumnae and Patiala Health Foundation (USA) for supplying medicines worth Rs 1 lakh every month for the needy patients.

On the occasion, the Chief Minister announced a cash award of Rs 1 lakh each for 11 students who were honored with Gold Medals for outstanding academic performance in different streams and handed a cheque of Rs 11 lakh to the Principal of the College Dr. KD Singh.

The Chief Minister felicitated the students with Medals and degrees.

The Chief Minister was accompanied by Cabinet Ministers Mr. Anil Joshi and Mr. Surjit Singh Rakhra, his Advisor on Health and Medical Education Dr. KK Talwar, his Special Principal Secretary Mr. KJS Cheema, Secretary Health Mr. Hussan Lal, Vice Chancellor Baba Farid University of Health Sciences Dr. SS Gill and Director Medical Education and Research Dr. Tejbir Singh.

Earlier, the Chief Minister also visited the residence of Akali leader Mr. Bhagwan Dass Juneja to share his heartfelt condolences on the sad demise of his son Mr. Gurpal Juneja, who passed away in the prime of his youth.

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A HIGH LEVEL NAFED AND NSUI TEAM CALLS ON CM

CM TO URGES CENTRE FOR ALLOWING NAFED TO PROCURE MAIZE IN PUNJAB

NAFED AGREES TO PROCURE MAIZE AND SUN FLOWER CROPS

BADAL ASSURES NAFED TO PERSONALLY TAKE-UP THE ISSUE OF RELEASING NAFED'S PENDING PAYMENTS WITH THE CENTRE

CHANDIGARH, AUGUST 27

Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal would urge the Central Government to add Maize in the crop procurement list of National Agricultural Cooperative Marketing Federation of India Ltd. (NAFED) for enabling it to procure Maize from the state of Punjab.

The decision to this effect was taken by Mr. Badal in a meeting with a high level team of NAFED that called on the Chief Minister here today at his residence. The team was led by Chairman National Cooperative Union of India (NSUI) Dr. Chandra Pal Singh and Chairman NAFED Mr. VR Patel.

The Chief Minister said that the state government had identified Maize, Cotton, Oil seed crops, pulses and agro-forestry as alternative crops to break the rotation of wheat and paddy, making agriculture not only more sustainable but also environment friendly. He asked NAFED to provide a proper marketing solution especially for Maize and Oil seed crops.

Mr. Patel agreed to initiate the Maize procurement from Punjab immediately after getting the permission from the Centre. He said that NEFAD was an apex organisation established to promote Co-operative marketing of agricultural produce to benefit the farmers. He appreciated the all-out efforts of Mr. Badal for improving farm income through initiating state's flagship program of crop diversification in the state to save ground water and soil health on one hand and ensuring assured marketing mechanism for enhancing profitability for the farmers on the other. He further urged Mr. Badal to take-up matter with Union Finance Minister for the early release of NAFED's pending payments of about Rs. 500 crore with the Central Government to bailout the NAFED from financial crisis. For which Mr. Badal categorically assured them that he would certainly take up the issue with the concerned Union Ministry.

On the occasion, the entire team of NAFED and NSUI honoured Mr. Badal for his pro farmer initiatives by presenting a Siropa.

Prominent amongst those who were present on the occasion included, Vice Chairman NAFED Dr. Bijaender Singh, Director KRIBHCO Dr. Sunil Kumar Singh, and Principal Secretary to CM Mr. SK Sandhu, besides Mr. Tajinder Singh Midhukhera, Mr. Kulwinder Singh Bhaikhera and Mr. Kuldeep Singh Sandhu DGM KRIBHCO.

Sukhbir Badal announces Punjab leagues for 5 sports disciplines

(5th world Kabbadi cup to be organized from November 29 to December 13)

(Sets the target for maximum participation from Punjab in Rio Olympics 2016)

(Shaheed Bhagat Singh Sports tournament to be held annually)

Chandigarh, August 27- With a view to develop and strengthen the sports culture at grass root level Punjab Deputy Chief Minister Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal today announced to launch Punjab leagues in hockey, volleyball, basketball, football and handball during weekends so that target for maximum participation of Punjabi players in Rio Olympic 2016 from the country could be achieve.

Presiding over a meeting with higher officials of sports department on Wednesday here, Mr. Badal has directed the sports department to launch local Punjab league events in which teams of all 22 districts in 5 disciplines would compete for titles. He also asked the department to provide transportation and better lodging facilities to players at each district headquarter.

Deliberating upon the arrangements of upcoming 5th World Kabbadi Cup 2014, Mr. Badal has also approved the schedule of world cup which would be held from November 29 to December 13, 2014 immediately after the world Kabbadi league. (Deputy CM also directed the sports department to organise Shaheed Bhagat Singh sports tournament annually having multiple discipline competitions. This year the event would be held at the end of October or first week of November.)

To set the pace for Rio Olympics, Deputy CM has asked the department to especially concentrate on shooting and wrestling as Punjab has a great potential to bag medals in these events. To facilitate the shooters it was also decided to establish world class shooting ranges in Mohali and Bathinda besides providing free of cost weapons and ammunition including training from experts to the eligible players. Mr. Badal has also emphasized the need to engage the services of advances sports institutes like NIS Patiala and Army Institute of Pune in this regard.

Deputy Chief Minister also approved the proposal regarding setting up of headquarter of Punjab State Institute of Sports at sector 78 SAS Nagar. Besides that he also ordered to appoint the Director General of for this sports institute by the end of next month.

It was also decided in the meeting that winners of recently held Commonwealth games at Glasgow from Punjab would be honoured along with the medal winners in upcoming Asian games in Incheon (South Korea) as all players were busy in preparation for these games.EOM

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Sukhbir Singh Badal warns officers-resolve complaints within a week

sangat darshan at Punjab Bhawan Delhi on every Saturday)

(Sports players to be given suitable government jobs)

Chandigarh August 27: Punjab Deputy Chief Minister Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal today directed senior police officers to ensure speedy and timely settlement of grievances highlighted during his Sangat Darshan programmes and said the pendency should not be more than a week.

Stating this here on Wednesday while listening to the grievances of the people during the Sangat Darshan program held at Punjab Bhawan, Deputy Chief Minister said the SAD-BJP government had taken rigorous corrective measures to ensure crime free environment in Punjab and had directed the state police administration to make sure that there should not be any pendency in the cases once brought to his notice. Mr. Badal has asked Principal Secretary Mr. P.S. Aujla to personally look into pendency of such complaints and submit the status report to him in the next week’s sangat darshan.

To resolve the grievances of the Punjabis living in and around New Delhi, Mr. Badal announced that similar sangat darshan would be held in Punjab Bhawan Delhi on every Saturday. Terming the Sangat darshan program as a fruitful exercise, Mr Badal said that people were highly benefited from this move as they were able to get their pending issues resolved immediately.

Regarding the alleged harassment case of Krispy Khaira where two senior police officers were allegedly accused of wrongdoing by Ms Khaira, the Deputy CM directed the DGP Vigilance to enquire into the matter and submit the enquiry report by Friday. It was alleged by the applicants during sangat darshan that the IPS officers made heavy transactions in connivance with her husband Devinder Gill, a property dealer.

Mr. Badal assured the sports persons to give them government jobs and reiterated that the state government would provide jobs to medal winner sports persons who have exhibited extra ordinary talent in various national and international sports events.

While meeting a deputation from Haryana state who brought a case urging the Deputy Chief Minister to trace their ward belonging to Hisar, a driver by profession who was reportedly missing since June 18 from Lalru, Mr. Badal has sought a detailed report from the DGP Crime and asked him to resolve the case at the earliest.

On the issue of the transfers in various departments, Mr. Badal said that there would be no transfers in the state as the last date fixed for transfers has lapsed and no transfer would be made during this session. He said that the government was in the process of completing conscription process in all the departments and very soon unemployed youth would be recruited in various departments.

The deputy chief minister has also asked the state PWD department to accelerate the pace to complete the ongoing construction projects in the state. He said that the construction work of Rai Sikh Bhawan at Frerozepur would be completed immediately at a cost of Rs. 65 Lakhs. The officers of the PWD department present on the occasion informed that tenders in this regard have been floated and the construction work would be completed within a fixed time frame. He also announced the up-gradation of high school at Jalalabad.

During this Sangat Darshan more than 840 people across the state today met the Deputy CM to redress their grievances and issues. Mr. Badal listened to their grievances very patiently and instructed the concerned officials to resolve their problems immediately. Most people registered their grievances against police, revenue, transfers and civil cases.

On the occasion Dr Daljit Singh Cheema Education Minister, Mr. P.S. Aujla Principal Secretary to Deputy CM, Mr B.K. Garg IG Law & Order, Mr Ajay Mahajan, Mr Manvesh Singh Sidhu and Mr Rahul Tiwari, Mr. Ashwani Kumar Sharma (all special principal secretaries to Deputy CM) were also present to help the people in getting done their problems solved. EOM

GOI TEAM VISITS PIBP TO UNDERSTAND THE CONCEPT OF ONE STOP CLEARANCE SYSTEM

· PUNJAB HAS TAKEN LEAD TO MAKE UNIQUE MODEL FOR INVESTMENT PROMOTION & CLEARANCES: DR. SUBHAG CHAND

· METHODS TO BE WORKED OUT FOR INTEGRATION OF STATE WEB PORTAL WITH GOI PORTAL

Chandigarh, August 27:

A technical team of Project Monitoring Group (PMG), Cabinet Secretariat, Government of India led by Dr. Subhag Chand, Technical Director, visited Punjab Bureau of Investment Promotion to have a first hand information of the systems put in place by Punjab Government to improve the investment environment for the entrepreneur through ease of doing business strategies. The team was especially here to understand the concept of One Stop Clearance System (OSCS) being developed by Punjab Bureau of Investment Promotion for the grant of all regulatory clearances under one roof through a web portal & held a meeting with Mr. Anirudh Tewari, CEO, PBIP & other officers of the department.

Mr. Anirudh Tewari, CEO, PBIP, said that the concept of OSCS has made a sea change in the policy of regulatory clearances and will facilitate the entrepreneurs on a 24 x 7 basis in the ease of their business premises. The requirement to visit multiple offices to set up their businesses is over and the composite clearance of different departments is provided under one roof.

Dr. Subhag Chand, Technical Director, appreciated the concept being followed by PBIP. He said that One Stop Clearance System being developed by PBIP is a unique concept and his team is here to see its adoptability at the GOI level through Department of Industrial Promotion & Policy (DIPP). The integration of OSCS with the e-Biz portal of GOI was also discussed. E-Biz portal is the flagship programme of DIPP to provide clearances from different departments through single portal being developed by Infosys. He also informed about the future measures being taken by through Department of Industrial Promotion & Policy and discussed measures about possible future integration of State Web Portal with GOI Portal. He suggested that PBIP may share its experiences in the National Level Conference/ Workshop, as Punjab has taken lead to make this unique model for investment promotion & clearances.

Earlier, the concept of PBIP was presented before PMG, Cabinet Secretariat on 7th August, 2014, wherein it was informed that clearances of Housing & Urban Department (CLU), Forest Department, Punjab Pollution Control Board, Factories Department, Boiler, Electric Connection of Power Department etc. will be made available to the entrepreneur through a Common Application Form under one roof subsequently through web portal.

Mr. Sarabjit Singh, NIC, Chandigarh, informed about technical features of the web portal and its possible pan India use in future linking all services at State & National level.

Others prominent in the meeting included Mr. D.K Tiwary Additional CEO, PIBP and Sector Officers of Punjab Bureau of Investment Promotion.

VIGILANCE NABS GM PUNJAB ROADWAYS IN GRAFT CASE

CHANDIGARH,AUGUST 27:

The Punjab Vigilance Bureau today nabbed General Manager of Punjab Roadways red handed while receiving bribe of Rs. 15,000.

Disclosing this here todady an official Spokesperson of the Vigilance Bureau said that Sukhdeep Singh who was posted as General Manager, Punjab Roadways, Depot Moga was apprehanded on the complaint of Khush Karan Singh resident of Bathinda. In his complaint to the vigilance Bureau Khush Karan Singh alleged that GM was demanding bribe from him and his partneres for granting them the permission to run their bus under Moga Depot under Kilometer Scheme and to futhre extend the kilometer limit of the bus. He alleged that GM was demanding Rs. 20,000 bribe for this purpose.

Acting on the tip off, a Vigilance Team headed by Mr. Surinder Kumar, DSP raided office of the GM and caught him with bribe money.

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PUNJAB BECOMES FIRST STATE TO APPROVE NET-METERING POLICY FOR SOLAR POWER PLANTS

v SETS A TARGET OF 100 MW UNDER NET METERING POLICY

v 30 SOLAR POWER PLANTS HAVING JOINT GENERATION CAPACITY OF 250 MW TO BE OPERATIONAL BY JANUARY 2015

Chandigarh, August 27: Punjab today achieved a new first by pioneering net-metering policy for installation of solar photovoltaic power plants.

Disclosing this here today, Punjab Revenue and Renewable Energy Minister Bikram Singh Majithia said the net metering policy would be applicable to all domestic, institutional, industrial, institutional and commercial consumers of Punjab State Power Corporation Limited (PSPCL).

He said under the policy, which had been formulated by the Department of New and Renewable Energy and Punjab Energy Development Agency (PEDA), all PSPCL consumers would have an option to install Solar Photovoltaic plants on their rooftop or vacant spaces in the capacity range of 1 KWp to 1000 KWp covering up to 80 per cent of their sanctioned load. He said the power generated from such solar plants would utilize the existing service lines and consumers would be able to offset their power consumption from the grid by producing solar power which would be accounted through bi-directional meters to be installed by PSPCL. The billing settlement period would be one year.

Mr Majithia said the State government had set a target of 100 MW under Net Metering Policy for the next one year which will help the State to meet the peak load demand during the day when solar power generation will be available. He said that both PSPCL and PEDA would jointly implement this scheme and a special publicity campaign would be launched for the consumers as to the procedure, technology and EPC companies which will be providing turnkey solutions for installation of solar power plants in market driven mode.

Mr Majithia said with fast depleting fossil fuel resources and prolonged litigation regarding allotment of coal fields, it had become imperative to promote solar energy as it was a green, clean and renewable energy and this technology was all set to be more viable in the long duration. He said solar roof top plants would serve the dual purpose of taking pressure off the State electricity utility during peak load hours besides reducing power bills of the consumers.

The Non Conventional Energy Minister further informed that 30 percent capital subsidy up to 500 KWp would be made available to the eligible individuals by PEDA depending upon the availability of funds on an year to year basis.

The Minister further said that 30 solar power projects having joint power generation capacity of 250 MW and investment of Rs. 2500 crore would be commissioned by January 2015 and connected with the grid. He said that special emphasis would be given at setting up of de-centralized solar power plants at the institutions and industries. Solar steam cooking plants at Gurdwara Baba Deep Singh Ji Shaheed, Solkhian and at Gurdwara Rara Sahib have already been installed in the state for replacing LPD and fossil fuel. He also informed that new technology for up-gradation of biogas to Bio-CNG plants has been started in the state and these projects would be up-scaled in the subsequent years to save LPG gas and CNG. EOM

REFRAIN MAHARASHTRA GOVERNMENT FROM GOING AHEAD WITH UNWARRANTED DANGEROUS MOVE TO DILUTE SGPC's REPRESENTATION IN TAKHT SRI HAZUR SAHIB MANAGEMENT BOARD: CM WRITES TO MODI

ASSAILS MAHARASHTRA GOVERNMENT FOR CONSPIRING TO WEAKEN THE SIKH COMMUNITY

Chandigarh, August 26-

The Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today directly sought intervention of the Prime Minister Mr. Narendra Modi to restrain the Congress Government in Maharashtra from going ahead with its decision arbitrarily reduce the representation of the Shiromani Gurdwara Prabhandak Committee (SGPC)- the apex religious body of Sikhs - in Takht, Sri Hazur Sahib Board from the existing four to one besides even denying the membership to the Chief Khalsa Diwan, which was earlier represented on the Board.

In a letter to the Prime Minister, Mr. Badal said that this was not an ordinary administrative decision as it concerned the sentiments and religious traditions of Sikh community. This anti-Sikh decision was a part of a deep rooted conspiracy of the Congress to lower the dignity of Sikh religious institutions, including the Takht Sri Hazur Sahib and the SGPC.

Mr. Badal impressed upon the Prime Minister to direct the Maharashtra Government forthwith to prevent the situation from getting worse and reiterated that the Government of India (GoI) should take appropriate measures for refraining the Maharashtra Government from going ahead with this unwarranted dangerous move.

Mr. Badal apprised the Prime Minister that the holy Takht Sri Hazur Sahib was one of the five most revered religious institutions, religiously denominated as Takhts (seat of religio-temporal authority) from where the Sikhs get the temporal and spiritual power. He said that the ManagementBoard of the Takht was constituted under the Takht Sri Hazur Abchalnagar Sahib Board Nanded Act, 1956, pursuant upon the demands of the Sikh community to free the Gurdwara Sahib from many anti-Sikh practices adding that the arrangement has lasted peacefully for the past 58 years and never was a need felt for bringing any change in it. "The other curious aspect of the decision is that while the number of members of the Board has been increased from 17 to 21, the number of representatives of the SGPC, the apex elected religious body of the Sikh, has been curtailed from four to one. This is not only illogical but also prima facie mischievous" added the Chief Minister.

The Chief Minister observed that strangely, at the same time, the number of the Maharashtra Government nominees has been doubled, one fails to understand the justification for increasing government representation on the Board while reducing the representation of the Sikh Mini-Parliament. He said that this action of the Maharashtra government was a part of an on-going Congress conspiracy to weaken the Sikh community through attempts to erode the authority of respected Sikh institutions. Mr. Badal said that the Congress leadership had always tried to either capture the SGPC, the supreme elected body of the Sikhs - also known as the religious mini-Parliament of the Sikhs - or to weaken it through political and governmental interference. The tensions generated by their unwarranted interference in the Sikh religious affairs in Haryana were still raging.

On top of that, the Chief Minister said that the action of the Maharashtra government now was bound to further vitiate the atmosphere as there could be no moral, political or religious justifications for such interference in the religious affairs of a patriotic minority community, the Sikhs. Mr. Badal said that this amounted to a direct interference in the religious affairs of Sikhs and no one could understand what prompted the Maharashtra government to go out its way to weaken the elected mini-Parliament of the Sikhs, the SGPC, with regard to its role in the management of the affairs of the holy Takht, Sri Hazur Sahib, Nanded.

CABINET GIVES NOD FOR PROMULGATING PUNJAB LAWS (SPECIAL PROVISIONS) ORDINANCE 2014

MOVE AIMED AT PROVIDING ANOTHER OPPORTUNITY FOR REGULARIZING PLOTS/ BUILDINGS IN UNAUTHORIZED COLONIES

OKAYS AMENDMENT IN "LAND OWNERS BECOME PARTNERS POLICY"

TAX ON CERTAIN LOTTERIES HIKED

PROPOSALS FOR SMOOTH PROCUREMENT OF PADDY DURING KHARIF MARKETING SEASON 2014-15 CLEARED

APPOINTMENT OF NINE WOMEN PLAYERS OF INDIAN KABADDI TEAM IN MARKFED APPROVED

PUNJAB CIVIL SERVICES (PREMATURE RETIREMENT) RULES, 1975 AMENDED

23 NEW POSTS OF DEPUTY SUPERINTENDENT GRADE-2 IN JAIL DEPARTMENT CREATED AND 16 POSTS REVIVED

POLICY OF NET METERING AND TECHNICAL STANDARDS FOR GRID CONNECTIVITY FOR ROOF TOP GRID INTERACTIVE SOLAR PHOTOVOLTAIC POWER PLANTS CLEARED

PUNJAB DEVELOPMENT FUND ORDINANCE, 2014 OKAYED

48 POSTS OF REQUISITE STAFF TO RUN THE COMMUNITY HOMES FOR THE MENTALLY CHALLENGED SANCTIONED

CS TO HEAD COMMITTEES FOR RECOMMENDING NORMS FOR DEPLOYMENT OF DOCTOR AND TEACHERS IN KANDI/ BORDER AREAS AND REFORMS IN JAIL MANUAL

Chandigarh, August 26-

With a view to give another chance to the plot holders in unauthorized colonies to get their plots/ buildings regularized and to provide basic infra structure like water supply, sewerage, electricity connections, streets and others, the Punjab Cabinet today approved the re-enactment of the Punjab Laws (Special provisions) Act for another one year by promulgating Punjab Laws (Special Provisions) Ordinance 2014.

A decision to this effect was taken at the meeting of Council of Ministers chaired by the Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal at the CMO here this morning.

Disclosing this here today a spokesperson of the Chief Minister's Office said that this step would provide an opportunity to the public for regularizing their plots/ buildings to avail the facility of sale/ purchase of plots and get the basic civic amenities besides facilitating the Departments of Housing and Urban Development and Local Government to clear the backlog of pending applications.

In another significant decision, keeping in view the larger public interest the Cabinet also decided to amend "Land Owners Become Partners Policy" thereby facilitating the land owners in the payment of Change of Land Use (CLU), External Development Charges (EDC) and other miscellaneous charges. Owing to the financial constraints the land developers had earlier expressed their inability to pay these fees but now the amended policy envisaged either to bear these charges on loan basis by the development authorities or organize loans from banks which would be ultimately adjusted against the future receipts of the land developers.

In a move aimed at generating additional revenue for the state, the Cabinet also gave nod for enhancing the increase in tax levied on certain lotteries across the state. As per the decision Rs 2 lakh would be charged as tax on four digit lottery instead of existing Rs 85,000, Rs 80,000 on Card game instead of currently Rs 55,000 and Rs 2 lakh instead of existing Rs 1 lakh on Lotto game.

The Cabinet also gave nod for notionally creating 246 posts Physical Training Instructors (PTI) Teachers with effect from May 7, 2011.

In another important decision the Cabinet also gave approval for setting up of Rehabilitation Centers across the state for rehabilitating the drug addicts. Likewise, for imparting quality counseling facilities to the drug addicts in these centers, the Cabinet gave nod for filling the posts of 16 Psychiatric through walk-in-interview instead of through the Punjab Public Service Commission.

The Cabinet also approved the proposals put forth by the Food and Civil Supplies department for the smooth and prompt procurement of estimated 140 Lakh Metric Tons (LMT) of paddy during the Kharif Marketing season 2014-15 relating to gunny bags/baardana, labour and transportation arrangements, cash credit limit, lifting of stock during procurement and custom milling policy 2014-15 besides grievances redressal mechanism for farmers.

In a bid to boost the morale of sportspersons in the state, the Cabinet also decided to offer employment to nine women players of Indian Kabaddi team in the Markfed which brought laurels to Punjab during the second Kabaddi World Cup. This step would ensure to secure future of the players on one hand and offer more opportunities to the players to enhance their skills in the game for the further promotion of Kabaddi in the state on the other. Subsequent to their appointment in the Markfed, these players would be participating in different tournaments as Markfed Kabaddi team, which would provide more publicity to the Markfed as well as its premium products.

In order to bring far more improvement and efficiency in the functioning of the Government offices, the Cabinet decided to amend section 3.1 (a) of Punjab Civil Services (Premature Retirement) Rules, 1975 to be known as Punjab Civil Services (Premature Retirement) First Amendment Rules, 2014. According to amended rule, the appropriate authority shall, if it is of the opinion that it is the public interest to do so have the absolute right, by giving an employee prior notice to retire that employee after he completes fifteen years or twenty years or twenty five years or thirty years and thirty five years of qualifying service.

In a major reprieve to the employees of the Hospitality department, the Cabinet gave approval to convert 14 temporary posts in Mini Secretariat, Ludhiana into permanent posts.

To overcome the shortage of the staffs in the jails and ensure speedy implementation of reforms in Jail Administration, the Cabinet approved the creation of 23 new posts and revival of 16 posts of Deputy Superintendent Grade-2 in Jails department.

The Cabinet also okayed the filling up of one post of Assistant Architect and four posts of Architectural Junior Draftsmen by direct recruitment so that the work was conducted smoothly in the Architectural wing of Public Works Department (B&R).

In a bid to promote the setting up of Roof Top Solar Photovoltaic (PV) systems in the state, the Cabinet also approved a policy of Net Metering and Technical standards for Grid Connectivity for Roof Top Grid Interactive Solar Photovoltaic Power Plants. This would facilitate the consumer by adjusting the surplus power consumed from the grid thereby resulting in their energy bill reduction.

The Cabinet also gave green signal to the Punjab Development Fund Ordinance, 2014 for the purpose of creating a fund for community assets of durable nature, for the welfare scheme of Liquor dealers for drug de-addiction and culture purposes or any other purpose decided by the board constituted for the management of fund under the Chairmanship of Excise and Taxation Minister. As per this decision 25% amount of application fee for liquor vends would go to this dedicated fund as a measure of Social Responsibility of Excise and Taxation Department.

In a bid to upgrade the level of higher education besides opening new vistas of employment for the youth of state, the Cabinet also gave approval for setting up of Sant Baba Bhag Singh Self Financed Private University at village Khiala, PO Padhiana district Jalandhar under the Punjab Private Universities Policy 2010.

The Cabinet also sanctioned 48 posts for running the newly set up Community Homes for the mentally challenged children/persons at Rajpura, Ludhiana and Amritsar. It may be recalled these Homes admit such boys and girls above six years and each such Home has a capacity of 50 persons.

The Cabinet also approved to set up Turf Club cum Tourist destination at village Mattewara in district Ludhiana over an area of 171 acre 2 Kanal and 13 marla through Punjab Infrastructure Development Board (PIDB) by PPP mode.

The Cabinet also gave nod for constituting a committee headed by the Chief Secretary which would formulate a policy for recruitment and deployment of doctors and teachers in border and kandi areas of the state. Likewise, the Cabinet also gave a go ahead to constitute a committee under the Chairmanship of Chief Secretary to review the Jail manual in order to bring out reforms in the Jails.

Government to concentrate on infrastructure development and administrative reforms-Sukhbir Badal

(SAD to contest two assembly seats in Haryana)

(AAP bubble bursts on its own & met the same fate of PPP)

Chandigarh August 26: Deputy Chief Minster Punjab Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal categorically said that the state government would pay focused attention to develop rural and urban infrastructure and ensuring implementation of governance reforms by providing all 149 citizen centric services to the people at their door steps by June 2015.

Addressing the media here today, Mr. Badal said that the government has already constituted a high powered committee under the chairmanship of the state’s Chief Secretary to ensure the timely implementation of governance reforms and provisioning of citizen centric services so that people could derive full benefit out of it. He also said that Punjab has become the first ever state in the country to implement such services in the entire state.

Referring to the rural and urban infrastructure development, Deputy CM said that the Punjab government has launched massive action plan to improve the existing infrastructure in the state and was committed to provide basic amenities like better road connectivity, rural and urban drinking water system, street lights, sanitation, garbage disposal plants etc not only in urban areas but also in rural areas. Adding further he asserted that people have voted for the unprecedented development in the state. He said that all the promises made by the people would be fulfilled during the next two years. The state has already become power surplus except for a coal supply snag which would be conquered at the earliest, said Mr. Badal.

Referring to the SAD getting Talwandi Sabo assembly seat after 29 long years, Mr. Badal said that it was evident from the winning margin with the Congress candidate of more than 45000 votes that people have expressed their full confidence in the programmes and policies of the SAD-BJP combine under the able stewardship of S. Parkash Singh Badal, the tallest leader of Indian Polity. Adding further Mr. Badal said that at the same time the SAD has increased its vote share at Patiala assembly seat by 10% on the whole vis-à-vis 2012 elections. “No incumbency factor was seen during the by-elections and SAD-BJP combine will surely win the Patiala assembly seat in the general elections of 2017”, claimed Mr Badal.

Commenting on the crushing defeat of the AAP, SAD president said that political scenario has been crystal clear for the AAP that it has no base in Punjab. “AAP bubble has burst on its own very fast and has met the same fate as that of Manpreet Badal’s PPP. He reiterated that AAP and PPP have been non performers in the state and that both the party leaders should pack up and opt for ‘voluntary retirement’ from politics.

On the poor performance of Congress President Partap Singh Bajwa, Mr. Badal said that he has been totally rejected and isolated from the rank and file of the party cadres. Replying to a question on SAD-INLD relations in Haryana, the Deputy Chief Minister made it clear that it was a generation old political relation since Choudhary Devi Lal which would remain intact in the years to come. BJP has also been briefed about these ties and at the same time SAD-BJP combine was also sharing a closest ever bonding. He also announced that SAD would contest Ambala and Kallianwali assembly constituencies in Haryana.

Sukhbir Singh Badal announces to exempts renewable energy power projects from CLU and EDC charges

(Directs housing department to immediately issue a notification for solar projects)

(Renewable energy power projects with a capacity of 250 MW to be commissioned by January next)

Chandigarh August 26: With a view to promote setting up of renewableenergy power projects in the state, Punjab Deputy Chief Minister Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal today gave a nod to exempt renewable energy power projects from change of land use (CLU) and external development charges (EDC) in accordance with the state NRSE Policy 2012. Besides, solar power projects upto any capacity were also exempted from obtaining any NOC from Punjab Pollution Control Board (PPCB).

Deputy Chief Minister while reviewing the ongoing power projects with Panchayats and Rural Development Minister Mr. Sikandar Singh Maluka, Renewable Energy Minister Mr. Bikram Singh Majithia and senior officers, asked the housing and urban development department to immediately issue a notification to exempt solar energy projects being developed by the PEDA under built, operate and own (BOO) basis from CLU and EDC charges.

Mr. Badal said that 29 sites have already been identified for this purpose and PEDA has recently handed over approval letters for 250 MW Solar power projects with investment of Rs. 2500-3000 crore. He informed that the various power projects having capacity of 250 MW would be commissioned by 31st January 2015 as implementation agreement and power purchase agreements have already been signed for all the projects.

During the meeting Deputy CM deliberating upon the state gram panchayats land lease policy has directed that rural land price fixation committee headed by concerned Deputy Commissioner would fix the lease rates keeping in view the nature of land and prevailing contract prices of concerned agricultural or barren land. It was also decided in the meeting to levy additional 6% yearly compounding charges from the projects owners to recompense the spiraling prices of land. Mr. Badal asked the rural development department to move a case to the next cabinet meet for levying yearly charges from the entrepreneurs.

To attract the business houses for investment and give impetus for setting up of renewable energy power projects Deputy CM also authorized the Punjab Bureau of Investment Promotion (PBIP) to sanction early clearances for such energy power projects in the state. Adding further Deputy CM said there was great scope of investment in the clean energy sectors of solar and biomass power.

Prominent among other who were present in the meeting included Chief Parliamentary Secretary Mr. Mantar Singh Brar, Chief Secretary Mr. Sarvesh Kaushal, Principal Secretary Rural Development Mr Mandeep Singh Sidhu, Principal Secretary Housing Mr A. Venu Prasad, Secretary Power & CEO PBIP Mr. Anirudh Tiwari, Additional Principal Secretary to CM Mr Gaggandeep Singh Brar, Secretary Science and Technology Mrs Seema Jain, Mr. Rahul Tiwari, Manvesh Singh Sidhu and Ajay Mahajan (all Special Principal Secretaries to Deputy CM).

PUNJAB SEEKS INFORMATION OF EMPLOYEES ON ‘FOREIGN JAUNTS’

· DEPARTMENTS TOLD TO LIST OUT GOVT. EMPLOYEES WHO POSSESSED PR/GREEN CARD OF FOREIGN COUNTRY

Chandigarh, August 26:

The Punjab Government has asked all the departments to furnish the information regarding those government employees, who have proceeded on ‘Ex India Leave’ and have possessed the Permanent Residency of foreign country.

Disclosing this here today an official spokesperson of the Vigilance Department said that written instruction in this regard have been issued to all the Heads of Departments.

Divulging the detail of the information sought by the Punjab Government, he said that departments have been instructed to report all such cases where an employee has taken 3 months Ex-India leave and subsequently the leave was extended for more than 3 years, without any break. Similarly information regarding all those government employees have also been sought, who have possessed Permanent Residency/Green Card of some foreign country.

The spokesperson further said that the senior officers of all the departments have been directed to personally examine the passports of all such employees before furnishing the information. He said that requisite information must be support by the Names and designations the employees.

He said that the departments have been asked to send the information directly to the Chief Director, Vigilance Bureau, Punjab with intimation to the Vigilance Department.

EMPLOYEE FACING GRAFT CASE NOT BE GIVEN PUBLIC DEALING POST IN PUNJAB

· DEPARTMENTS TOLD NOT TO DEPUTE AN EMPLOYEE ON THE SAME POST, WHERE HE WAS NABBED BY VIGILANCE BUREAU IN A GRAFT CASE

Chandigarh, August 26:

The Punjab Government has directed all the departments to refrain from deputing an employee on the same post, where he has been nabbed by vigilance bureau in a graft case. This step has been taken to ensure the transparent and corruption free administration. Departments have also been instructed not to depute such employees on a public dealing post till they are facing trial in corruption case.

Disclosing this here today an official spokesperson of the Vigilance Department said that it has come to the notice of the government that some departments depute the under trial employee on the same post where from he was nabbed by the Vigilance Bureau red handed in graft case. He said that in such a case the under trial employee could temper with the official documents and exercise his influence over the complainant and official witnesses pertaining to his graft case.

The spokesperson further said that departments have also been instructed not to depute such employees on any public dealing post till the graft case is decided and the employee has been exonerated by the Hon’ble court. He said that deputing such under trial employees on a public dealing post could cast adverse effect in the eyes of general public besides disseminating wrong message among the other employees of the department.

MALUKA TO INAUGURATE GOVERNMENT MIDDLE SCHOOL DURALI (MOHALI) ON AUGUST 28

CHANDIGARH, AUGUST 26: Mr. Sikander Singh Maluka Rural Development & Panchayat Minister would inaugurate the Government Middle School, Durali (Mohali) on August 28, 2014.

Disclosing this here today an official spokesman said that to boost the rural education in the state the Punjab government has formulated a policy under which more and more schools in rural areas are to be set up, so that every child could get basic education under the Right to Education Act.

EDUCATION DEPARTMENT TO OBSERVE NATIONAL SPORTS DAY ON AUGUST 29 AT JALANDHAR: DR. CHEEMA

CHANDIGARH, AUGUST 26:

Punjab Education Department has decided to observe National Sports Day in commemoration of legendry Hockey player Major Dhayan Chand on August 29 at Surjit Hockey Stadium Jalandhar.

Disclosing this here today, Dr. Daljit Singh Cheema, Education Minister, Punjab said that the department is already celebrating sports week from August 25 to August 30 in this regard. He said that this week long celebration would be culminated on August 29 with the state level function at Jalandhar. Dr. Cheema said that Hockey Olympian Pargat Singh, MLA would throw light on the achievements of Major Dhayan Chand to the game of hockey. The Education department would distribute free sports kits to the sports persons. He said that on this occasion girls’ hockey exhibition match would also be played.

The Minister said that the state government is committed to the welfare of the sports persons. He said that Punjab has constructed 14 state of the art sport stadium in the state where as 10 National level players have been inducted in the police department as DSPs.

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MINISTER ORDERS CHARGESHEETING OF ABSENTEE HEALTH STAFF OF PHC SHATRANA

· ONLY TWO SWEEPERS FOUND PRESENT DURING SURPRISE CHECK OF MINISTER

· NO IRREGULARITIES WOULD BE TOLERATED IN THE DEPARTMENT: JAYANI

CHANDIGARH, AUGUST 26: The Punjab Health Minister Mr. Surjit Kumar Jayani today ordered chargesheeting of 16 Health Officials including 3 Doctors who were found absent from the duty during the surprise check to the Primary Health Centre, Shatrana.

Disclosing this here today, an official spokesman said that the Health Minister is regularly conducting surprise checks in the Government Hospitals and Health Centres under the Punjab Governments campaign to provide better health facilities and ensure punctuality of doctors and staff in all the institutions across the state. Recently Mr. Jayani Conducted a surprise check at Primary Health Centre Shatrana in the district Patiala.

Health Minister reached the Primary health Centre Shatrana at 8.20 AM but found that only two sweepers were present on duty and no doctor or other staff came till 9.15 AM. Minister found that patients came in large number before staff and doctors were absent. Taking a serious note of this Health Minister has instructed the officials to chargesheet the absent doctors and other staff.

Doctors and Staff found absent during the surprise visit by the Health minister include Medical Officer Dr. Rupali, Medical Officer Dr. Lilly Singla, Medical Officer (Dental) Dr. Davinder Shally, Pharmasist Gora Lal, Sanitary Inspector Harcharan Singh, Lab Technician Durga Das, Staff Nurse Sukhvinder kaur, ANM Kiran Kaur, ANM Harmit Kaur, Multipurpose Health Worker Darshan Singh, BEE Lakhwinder Singh and fourth class employees Rajkumari, Bholi, baljinder kaur, Varinder Kumar and Baljit Kaur.

Health Minister Mr. Surjit Kumar Jayani has issued strict warning to the officials to ensure timely attendance and proper Health Facilities in all the Hospitals and subsidiary Health centres. Minister has instructed the senior officials to take strong action against such irregularities in the department.

PUNJAB CM MOURNS PASSING AWAY OF GURPAL JUNEJA

DEPUTY CM AND MAJITHIA ALSO CONDOLES SAD DEMISE AND ATTENDED CREMATION

CHANDIGARH, AUGUST 25

Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today expressed profound grief and sorrow over the sad demise of Senior Akali Leader Mr. Bhagwan Dass Juneja's son Mr. Gurpal Juneja, who passed away on Sunday late night due to severe cardiac arrest. He was 43 and survived by his wife and a son.

In a condolence message, Mr. Badal prayed to the Almighty to grant strength to the bereaved family members, relatives and friends to bear this huge loss and eternal peace to the departed soul.

Meanwhile, the Deputy Chief Minister Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal and Revenue & Public Relations Minister Mr. Bikram Singh Majithia also mourned the passing away of Mr. Gurpal Juneja and shared their heartfelt condolences with the grief-stricken members of the family.

It may be recalled that Mr. Gurpal Juneja, the eldest among the four brothers, was cremated at Patiala this morning amidst thousands of mourners from different walks of life, who gave a tearful adieu to the departed soul. Deputy Chief Minister Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal, Revenue & Public Relations Minister Mr. Bikram Singh Majithia and School Education Minister Dr. Daljit Singh Cheema also attended the cremation.

CM DESCRIBES THE RESULTS OF TWO ASSEMBLY BY-ELECTIONS AS VINDICATION OF THE PERFORMANCE OF THE SAD-BJP GOVT

· THANKS VOTERS FOR REITERATING THEIR FAITH IN ALLIANCE

Chandigarh, August 25 –

The Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today described the results of the two assembly by-elections in Punjab as "a vindication of the programmes, policies and performance of the SAD-BJP govt. in the state a major set-back to the Congress party, as we not only gained the Talwandi Sabo seat from the Congress but also considerably increased our vote share in Patiala assembly constituency compared with the results of the assembly segment in the last Lok Saba poll.

"The results in both the Constituencies also showed that the Congress was clearly on the way out in the state," said Mr. Badal. The Chief Minister said the results of the Talwandi Sabo constituency showed a record margin of 46, 642 , which must come a shock and an eye opener to the Congress.

The Chief Minister thanked the people and voters in the two constituencies for greatly enhancing the position and prestige of the SAD-BJP in both constituencies and said that the victory in Talwandi Sabo and the improved vote-share in Patiala were proof of the faith of the people in the policies and programmers of the government.

Mr. Badal pointed out that while the SAD-BJP snatched the Talwandi Sabo seat from the Congress, which had won here in the last assembly elections, the alliance improved its vote share in Patiala from nearly 16342 to 29685 an increase of 13343. This showed an improvement of nearly 100% over the performance in Lok Sabha poll.

The Chief Minister thanked the people and voters of the two constituencies for reiterating their faith in the SAD-BJP Alliance and said that the results would "further strengthen our resolve to serve the people of the state with greater zeal, commitment and humility.

He also thanked the workers and office-bearers of the SAD-BJP for working day and night in spreading the progressive and pro-people message of the alliance among the people there.

The Chief Minister also said that his assessment that the AAP was just a flash in the pan in the state politics had also been vindicated as that party has been wiped out in the poll.

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Deputy CM constitutes high powered committee for development of upcoming sectors in Mohali

(Zirakpur and Dera Bassi urban areas to be developed as satellite towns)

Chandigarh August 25: Punjab Deputy Chief Minister Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal has constituted a high powered committee under the chairmanship of the state Chief Secretary to develop upcoming sectors in SAS Nagar with the ultra modern civic amenities and world class infra structure.

Presiding over a meeting especially convened to study the development plan along with the senior officers of the concerned departments Mr. Badal said that the Principal Secretaries of the departments of Urban Housing Development, Local Bodies, heads of PUDA, GAMADA, PIDB and one representatives from consultant company IF&LS would be the members of the newly constituted committee. The committee has been asked to submit its report after a thorough study of the blue print prepared to develop these new sectors strictly in accordance with the laid down norms of the Punjab government by October 1.

Mr. Badal also said that these sectors would be developed under design-built-operate (DBO) basis and the project could be handed over to IF&LS under Swiss challenge system after scrutinizing the suggestions of the high powered committee. The Deputy Chief Minister has asked that the company responsible for the development of these new sectors would ensure the scientific technique of the disposal of solid waste material, uninterrupted water supply system, power backup structure, road network, transport facilities, adequate street lighting facilities and clean and green environs to the populace.

The Deputy CM added that entire expansion of SAS Nagar city including its lay out, landscaping and development would be developed as the world class town with the ultra modern civic amenities and infra structure. He also directed the housing department to develop and ensure efficient planning of Zirakpur and Dera Bassi urban areas as satellite towns of SAS Nagar in a phased manner. Deputy CM also said that the housing company would be responsible for providing the basic amenities to the residents and would also be responsible for any lapse in this regard.

Prominent amongst others present in the meeting included Chief Parliamentary Secretary Mr NK Sharma, Chief Secretary Mr. Sarvesh Kaushal, Principal Secretary Housing A. Venu Prasad, Principal Secretary to Deputy Chief Minister Mr. P.S. Aujla, Secretary Transport Mr Anurag Aggarwal, Secretary Local Bodies Mr Ashok Gupta, Mr. Rahul Tiwari, Manvesh Singh Sidhu and Ajay Mahajan (all Special Principal Secretaries to Deputy CM), Chief Administrator GAMADA, Mr. A.K. Sinha and representatives of IF&LC group.

DHINDSA RELEASES PROVISIONAL RESULTS OF 6TH ECONOMIC CENSUS OF PUNJAB

- ALSO INAUGURATES 13TH FINANCE COMMISSION REVIEW MEETING-CUM-GSDP WORKSHOP OF NORTHERN REGION STATES

CHANDIGARH, AUGUST 25:

Sh. Parminder Singh Dhindsa, Finance Minister, Punjab today inaugurated 13th Finance Commission Review meeting-cum-GSDP workshop of Northern Region States. This workshop is being organized from 25th to 29th August, 2014 at Chandigarh. The objective of the workshop is to review the progress of GSDP of 13th Finance Commission Grant. He also released provisional results of 6th economic census of Punjab, which can be seen on www.esopb.gov.in.

In his inaugural address Sh. Parminder Singh Dhindsa, Finance Minister, Punjab expressed that data generated through various milestones under the grant will enable the state to formulate various economic policies in an objective manner. He categeorily mentioned that data of “Cost of Cultivation Study” under Farm Activity milestone to be conducted in each district will help to formulate policies including crop diversification plans at district level. Similarly data of “Business Register Survey” milestone will enable the State Govt. to prepare more authentic Industrial Policies for the state.

Sh. Ashish Kumar, Additional Director General, Central Statistical Office in his address expressed that with the achievement of various milestones under 13th FC the country will enter a new phase of statistical era where for the first time Income Estimates will be available at district level. With this, India will join countries having advance statistical system.

The 13th FC recommended grant of Rs. 1.00 crore for each district of the country for strengthening database and statistical system especially at district level in all the states of the country including Punjab. Under this grant, five major milestones are to be achieved by the State within the grant (up to March, 2015), Preparation of Business Register at district level, Preparation of Local Bodies Accounts, Improvement of Farm Activity data, Pooling of central and state level NSS data and Providing Network Connectivity with district and state headquarter. This grant is to be released in five equal installments on the basis of Physical & Financial Progress of respective State. An amount of Rs. 20.00 crore is sanctioned for the State of Punjab out of which an amount of Rs. 8 crore has been received in two installments.

Prime Objective of this milestone is to generate District Income Estimates which presently are prepared at state level only. For this purpose Central Statistical Office (CSO) is the nodal department at the central Govt. level and Economic & Statistical Organization (ESO), Department of planning is the nodal department at Punjab state level.

Seven states including Punjab, Haryana, Himachal Pradesh, Jammu & Kashmir, Uttrakhand, Chandigarh (U.T.) and Uttar Pradesh are participating in the workshop. Each state will present the status of various works of this grant.

Sh. Jaspal Singh, Secretary Planning and Expenditure intimated that the State Govt. is according top priority to the Finance Commission Grant and its progress is being monitored regularly. Special instructions are issued from time to time to state treasury to clear the expenditure under this grant on top priority to enhance the financial utilization and to achieve physical target under grant.

Sh. Mohan Lal Sharma Economic Adviser to Govt. Punjab informed that preparation of Income Estimates at District level through data of various milestones of the grant will be the major achievement which will enable the policy makers to analyze the economic situation at sub-state level and formulate policies accordingly. He also presented the status of various works of Punjab state.

Sh. Harvinder Singh, Joint Director ESO, who is the nodal officer to implement the 13th Finance Commission Grant project in Punjab, thanked the Central Govt.’s concerned ministries for their supportive role in this regard.

CHANDIGARH, AUGUST 25:

Punjab Government has appointed Principal Secretary, Governance Reforms Department, Punjab as Adjudicating Officer for the State of Punjab under Information Technology Act, 2000.

Disclosing this here today a spokesman of the Punjab Government said that a notification has already been issued in this regard.

JEET MOHINDER SINGH SIDHU AND PRENEET KAUR WIN BY-ELECTION: CEO

· SAD CANDIDATE FROM TALWANDI SABO WON WITH 46642 MARGIN OF VOTES AND CONGRESS CANDIDATE FROM PATIALA WON BY 23282 VOTES

CHANDIGARH, AUGUST 25:

In the by-election results declared today, Shiromani Akali Dal candidate won Talwandi Sabo assembly constituency and Indian National Congress candidate won Patiala assembly constituency.

Chief Electoral Officer, Punjab Mr. V.K. Singh said that in Talwandi Sabo constituency, out of total 1,18,690 votes polled, Shiromani Akali Dal candidate Mr. Jeetmohinder Singh Sidhu got 71,747 votes, while Indian National Congress candidate Mr. Harminder Singh Jassi acquired 25,105, Aam Aadmi Party candidate Prof. Baljinder Kaur secured 13,899 and Punjab Labour Party candidate Mr. Makhan Singh Premi got 389 votes. Of independent candidates, Mr. Balkar Singh got 6,305, Mr. Balwinder Singh 218 and Bhai Bharpur Singh got 447 votes. He said that Shiromani Akali Dal candidate Mr. Jeetmohinder Singh Sidhu defeated Mr. Harminder Singh Jassi of Indian National Congress candidate by a margin of 46,642 votes. He further said that 580 voters opted for 'NOTA’ button in Talwandi Sabo constituency.

CEO further said that in Patiala constituency, 89,570 voters exercised their democratic right, out of which, Mrs. Preneet Kaur of Indian National Congress got 52,967 votes, Shiromani Akali Dal candidate Mr. Bhagwan Dass Juneja got 29,685, Aam Aadmy Party candidate Mr. Harjit Singh 5,724, New All India Congress Party candidate Mr. Amrik Singh 139 and Hindusthan Nirman Dal candidate Mr. Ravi Kant obtained 101 votes, while Independent candidate Mr Balbir Singh got 74 votes, Mr. Balwinder Singh 119 and Mr. Rajinder Singh Pawar got 138 votes. He mentioned that 623 voters opted for NOTA. He said that Indian National Congress candidate Mrs. Preneet Kaur defeated Shiromani Akali Dal candidate Mr. Bhagwan Dass Juneja by 23282 votes.

U.G.C APPROVES PTU DISTANCE EDUCATION PROGRAMME ---MADAN MOHAN MITTAL

· THANKS HRD MINISTER SMIRITI IRANI FOR EXPEDITING APPROVAL

CHANDIGARH, AUGUST 24:

University Grant Commission has granted its approval to the Distance Education Program run by learning Center Association of Punjab Technical University. It is worth mentioning that distance education program of PTU, which was stayed by High Court in 2013 due to absence of this approval, is expected to start admission process soon.

Thanking HRD Minister Smt Samriti Irani for expediting long pending approval, Punjab Technical Education Minister Mr Madan Mohan Mittal today said that this approval was long pending since 2013 and with the sincere efforts of, Minister HRD this approval has been realized the dreams off thousands of students, who want to study in Govt and Technical University at affordable cost. He further added that future of more than 5000 staff members working at 200 learning centers also got safeguarded with this approval.

Members of PTU LC Association today reached the residence of Mr. Mittal for expressing their thanks. They said that this approval was the result of undying efforts of Mr. Mittal.

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PUNJAB GOVERNMENT SETS UP COMMITTEE TO REDUCE POST- HARVEST LOSSES

· COMMITTEE TO COORDINATE TO DEVELOP AND ADOPT TECHNIQUES AND TECHNOLOGIES TO REDUCE POST HARVEST LOSSES: JATHEDAR TOTA SINGH

· COMMITTEE WOULD ALSO ENCOURAGE DEVELOPMENT OF AGRO AND FOOD PROCESSING CLUSTERS IN THE STATE

Chandigarh, August 24: The Punjab Government has set up the Committee to coordinate efforts in development and adoption of techniques and technologies to reduce post- harvest losses and encourage value addition both at farm and industrial level.

Disclosing this here today Punjab Agriculture Minister Jathedar Tota Singh said that the Committee would function to consider and review post-harvest techniques and technologies developed by Central Institute of Post-Harvest Engineering and Technology for adoption and commercial application both at farm and industrial level, to integrate techniques and technologies of management of post- harvest losses and value addition developed by CIPHET, PAU and GADVASU, to ensure transfer of these technologies to farmers and industries for their commercial application in post- harvest management of crops and value addition, to formulate, implement and manage skill development programme in post- harvest management technologies and food processing to be executed jointly by CIPHET, PAU and GADVASU.

Minister further said that committee would also encourage development of agro and food processing clusters with cool chain infrastructure and ensuring integration of production, processing and marketing. He said that committee would also encourage scientific warehousing of agricultural and horticultural produce with a view to achieve the stated objective of reduction in post- harvest losses; and to carry out any other activity to achieve the objectives of effective implementation/adoption of post- harvest technologies to reduce losses and value addition to the crops for the benefit of all stakeholders including farmers, industrialists, researchers, scientists, etc.

Minister said that Financial Commissioner Development, Punjab would be the Chairman of this committee. He further said that Vice Chancellor, Punjab Agriculture University, Ludhiana, Vice Chancellor, Guru Angand Dev Veterinary & Animal Sciences University, Ludhiana, Director CIPHET, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Agriculture Member Government of India, Secretary Food Processing Industries, Punjab, Chandigarh would be members of the committee and Managing Director, Punjab Agro Industries Corporation Ltd. Chandigarh would be Member Convener. ‘The Committee may co-opt any other member to achieve its objectives’ he said.

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CM CONDOLES DEATH OF JATHEDAR UJJAGAR SINGH CHHAPA

DEPUTY CM AND MAJITHIA ALSO MOURNS DEATH OF JATHEDAR CHHAPA

Chandigarh, August 24-Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today expressed profound grief and sorrow over the sad demise of senior Akali leader Jathedar Ujjagar Singh Chhapa who passed away on Sunday evening at his residence in Ludhiana after brief illness. He was 80 and survived by two sons and one daughter.

In a condolence message, the Chief Minister described Jathedar Chappa as a noble soul committed to the Akali Dal and have contributed a lot for party in every struggle. Sharing his heartfelt sympathies with the members of the bereaved family, Chief Minister prayed to the Almighty to grant eternal peace to the departed soul and courage to family members to bear this irreparable loss.

Meanwhile, President Shiromani Akali Dal and Deputy Chief Minister Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal and Information and Public Relations Minister Mr. Bikram Singh Majithia also mourned the passing away of Jathedar Chappa.

- PUNJAB TRANSFERS 7 IAS AND 4 PCS OFFICERS

CHANDIGARH, August 23:

The Punjab government has today transferred 7 IAS and 4 PCS officers with immediate effect.

Disclosing this here, an official spokesman of the state government said that Mr. Ajoy Sharma, IAS has been posted as Special Principal Secretary to Chief Minister Punjab, Mr. Vipul Ujwal, IAS posted as Commissioner Municipal Corporation Moga, Ms Shena Aggarwal, IAS posted as SDM, Raikot, Mr. Sanyam Aggarwal, IAS posted as SDM, Khanna, Mr. Vineet Kumar, IAS posted as SDM, Dera Baba Nanak, Mr. Keshav Hingoma, IAS posted as SDM Phagwara and Ms. Surabhi Malik, IAS posted as SDM Nangal,

In PCS officers Mr. Jagwinderjit Singh Grewal DTO, Gurdaspur and in addition SDM Batala, Mr. Rahul Chaba posted as ADC (General) Sri Muktsar Sahib, Mr. Rakesh Kumar Popli posted as Estate officer, Greater Ludhiana Area Development Authority, Ludhiana and Mr. Rajat Oberoi posted as SDM, Mukerian.

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PUNJAB GOVERNMENT NOTIFIES FATEHGARH PANJTOOR MARKET COMMITTEE IN DISTRICT MOGA

Chandigarh, August23: The Punjab Government has notified Fategarh Panjtoor market committee in district Moga after hearing all objections in this regard. As per Government notification total number of 17 members has been fixed for constituting this market committee.

Disclosing this here today Official Spokesperson of the Punjab Government said that control of some villages from Market Committee and Kot Eshe Kha Market Committee have been taken out and brought under the control of market committee Fatehgarh Panjtoor for the sale, purchase, storage and processing of products.

The Spokesperson further said that villages which have been brought under the control of market committee Fatehgarh Panjtoor include Fatehgarh Panjtoor, Maujewala, Khera Droli,Rao Wala, Mealak Kanga, Kambo Kalan, Kambo Khurd, Maelak Akalian, Fate Ulla, Sahawala, Danewala, Mundi Jamal, Goluwala, Lalhandi, Bahadur Wala, Saide Sah Wala, Mahi Wala, Madarpur, Sanghera, Kahnewala, Takhtu Wala, Jania, Jaspur, Khamba, Nawan Chotian, Boghewala, Bandal Jania, Krahwala, Dholewala, Mehruwala, Jhugian, Kania Kahas, Dhaem Singh Wala, Killi, Gandhra, Ramgarh, Raja Wala, Mandar, Kadrwala, Tota Singh Wala, Bhaini, Sadi Wala, Kishanpura Saaid, Saaid Muhamad and Chirangsahwala.

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CM BATS FOR MASTER-PLAN FOR PERIODIC MAINTENANCE AND REPAIR OF ENTIRE ROAD INFRA STRUCTURE IN THE STATE

ASKS PILLAI TO PUT IN PLACE AN EFFECTIVE MECHANISM FOR ENSURING USAGE OF MATERIAL AS PER STIPULATED NORMS

EXHORTS FOR 'SOCIAL AUDIT' BY ELECTED REPRESENTATIVES OF PEOPLE TO ENSURE QUALITY CHECK

CM TO SEEK PERSONAL INTERVENTION OF JAITLEY FOR GETTING SPECIAL FUNDS FOR THE REPAIR AND UPGRADATION OF BORDER ROADS IN THE STATE

LAYS STRESS ON THE METICULOUS PLANNING/ DESIGNING AND QUALITY ASSURANCE FOR THE CONSTRUCTION OF LINK ROADS

Chandigarh, August 23-

In a bid to strengthen and upgrade the entire road network envisaging National highways, State highways, Main District Roads (MDR), Other District Roads and link roads, the Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today asked the Advisor Roads to state government Major General (Retd.) MS Pillai to formulate a master-plan for periodic maintenance and repair of total length of 60676 kilometers of roads.

A decision to this effect was taken by the Chief Minister in a high level meeting with the Chief Engineers of the Public Works Department, National Highways Authority of India (NHAI), Punjab Mandi Board and Border Roads Organization (BRO) here at his residence this afternoon.

Taking part in deliberations, the Chief Minister also asked Major General (Retd.) Pillai to put in place an effective mechanism to ensure proper usage of material for building roads as per the stipulated norms on one hand and do away with the practice of putting exaggerated estimates on the other. He also impressed upon Major General (Retd.) Pillai to involve elected representatives of people to ensure quality check, which he termed as 'social audit', for better construction of roads and its longevity. Mr. Badal also asked the concerned authorities to ensure that side drains/ cross drainage works of link roads must be completed before the commencement of the roadwork. He also appreciated the ABC classification of link roads on the basis of traffic density so that routine maintenance funds could be allotted to these roads as per their classification.

The Chief Minister also asked the Advisor roads to prepare a comprehensive proposal for seeking central assistance for the upgradation of state's entire road sector right from link roads to national highways. Mr. Badal said that he would soon meet the Union Defence Minister Mr. Arun Jaitley to seek his personal intervention for getting special funds for the repair and upgradation of Border Roads in the state.

Underscoring the need to strengthen the rural road network in the state, the Chief Minister asked Mr. Pillai to lay special emphasis on the meticulous planning/ designing and quality assurance for the construction of link roads as these factors had been blatantly ignored so far resulting in poor construction work and hefty amount to be spent on their repair time and again. Mr. Badal also asked the officers of the PWD and Mandi Board to jointly work out a time bound action plan for the periodic repair and upgradation of these arties of rural Punjab, which had played a crucial role in the overall development of these areas. Likewise, he also emphasized to enhance the carriageway width of the Link roads from the existing 3.5-5.5 metres to atleast 10 metres for the decongestion of traffic as a part of futuristic planning.

Prominent amongst those present in the meeting included Cabinet Minister Jathedar Tota Singh, Financial Commissioner Development Mr. Suresh Kumar, Secretary PWD Mr. PS Aujla, Special Principal Secretaries to Chief Minister Mr. Ajoy Sharma and Dr S Karunaraju and Chief Engineer Project Chetak BRO Mr. MS Sodhi.

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NEW DG BISA CALLS CM

BISA TO ESTABLISH LUDHIANA AS ITS HEADQUARTERS

THE MASTER PLAN FOR BISA’S LUDHIANA CENTRE HAS BEEN FINALIZED

INFRASTRUCTURE TO BE COMPLETED IN TWO TO THREE YEARS

CM ASKS TO MAKE THE INSTITUTION OPERATIONAL IN PHASED MANNER

OFFERS FULSOME SUPPORT AND COOPERATION OF THE STATE

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

EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE OF BISA TO VISIT PUNJAB ON AUGUST 30

CHANDIGARH AUGUST 23 :-

The new Director General of Borlaug Institute for South Asia (BISA) Mr. HS Gupta along with International Maize and Wheat Improvement Centre CIMMYT’s Regional Representative Director of Research for South Asia Dr. Etienne Duveiller called on Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal late last evening at his residence.

Disclosing this here today a spokesperson of the Chief Minister’s office said that during the meeting Mr. Gupta apprised the Chief Minister about progress of the prestigious Centre of ‘Borlaug Institute for South Asia’ (BISA) that was being established in the state at Ludhiana under the auspices of Mexico-based International Maize and Wheat Improvement Centre (CIMMYT). The Master Plan for BISA’s Ludhiana had been finalized and Construction work would be started soon, informed Mr. Gupta.

The Director General who had recently taken the charge also mentioned that considering the strong desire and concern of Mr. Badal to improve the financial condition of state’s agriculture sector hence that of the beleaguered farmers, who had been plummeting financially day by day because of non- remunerative price of their produce, the BISA had decided to setup their headquarter at Ludhiana after the entire construction work would be completed. Expressing his gratitude to the Chief Minister for all the help and Cooperation from the state government side, he said that the a 7-member Coordinate Committee had been established for the smooth functioning of the Institute.

He said that they had also chalked out a long range implication programme for the state and presently initiated the research work at various levels with the help of PAU Ludhiana to develop new verity crops of better yield with less consumption of water besides preserving soil health by enhancing the Nitrogen contents in it. The Executive Committee of BISA would also visit Punjab on August 30, added Mr. Gupta.

Expressing satisfaction over the progress, Mr. Badal asked Director General to make each unit functional simultaneously as its Infrastructure being raised instead of waiting the constructional of entire Institution and then made it functional. Mr. Badal also hoped that this Institute would prove to be a mile stone to herald the second green revolution by encouraging the value added crops like Maize, Basmati and Oil seeds ultimately helping our farmers to come out of the rut of wheat-paddy cycle.

Prominent amongst those who were present on the occasion included Financial Commissioner Development Mr. Suresh Kumar, Principal Secretaries to the Chief Minister Mr. SK Sandhu, Special Principal Secretaries to the Chief Minister Mr. K.J.S. Cheema and Gaggandip Singh Brar, besides Chief Soil Conservator Dr. BS Sidhu and Sr. Research Engineer BISA Dr. Harminder Singh Sidhu.

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CM CONDOLES DEATH OF JASWANT RAI BANSAL

DEPUTY CM AND MAJITHIA ALSO MOURNS PASSING AWAY OF FORMER CHAIRMAN OF PPSC AND EX-MEMBER OF UPSC

Chandigarh, August 23-

Punjab Chief Minister Mr Parkash Singh Badal today expressed profound grief and sorrow over the sad demise of former Chairman Punjab Public Service Commission and Ex-member Union Public Service Commission Mr. Jaswant Rai Bansal (88), who passed away at New Delhi on Friday after a brief illness.

In a condolence message, the Chief Minister recalled the outstanding services rendered by Mr. Jaswant Rai Bansal during his tenure in PPSC and UPSC. He said that during his stint in PPSC and UPSC, Mr. Bansal exhibited the probity, transparency and commitment at his best while serving on these constitutional posts.

Sharing his heartfelt sympathies with the members of the bereaved family, the Chief Minister prayed to the Almighty to grant peace to the departed soul and courage to family members to bear this irreparable loss.

Meanwhile, the Deputy Chief Minister Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal and Revenue and Public Relations Minister Mr. Bikram Singh Majithia also mourned the passig away of Mr. Bansal.

It may be recalled that Mr. Bansal was the father-in-law of the Chairman of Punjab State Right to Service Commission and former Chief Secretary of the state, Mr. SC Aggarwal.

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Wave World Kabaddi League kicks off its India leg in New Delhi after successful completion of its UK leg
• Wave WKL starts in India on a glittering note
• Wave WKL Franchisees- Khalsa Warriors, California Eagles, Vancouver Lions, Punjab Thunder, Yo Yo Tigers, United Singhs, Royal Kings USA & Lahore Lions

New Delhi, Aug 23, 2014: Wave World Kabaddi League (Wave WKL), India’s first international Kabaddi league, after its successful completion of UK leg (London and Birmingham) today visits India. The matches will be played for on weekends in New Delhi commencing on August 23 at the Indira Gandhi Indoor Stadium. After successfully hosting the past 4 Kabaddi World cups in Punjab wherein 21 countries participated, the organizers are back yet again with an innovative initiative to take Kabaddi places in the form of Wave World Kabaddi League.

This is the first time when the capital will witness the Indian and international players together under one banner showcasing breathtaking live action. Sh. Pargat Singh, Commissioner, Wave WKL; Mr. Raman Raheja, CEO, Wave WKL; Franchisee owners and the key players were present at the press gathering. The matches will be scheduled from 1900 hrs every Saturday and Sunday. The Indian leg will have 12 matches spread across 3 weekends.

The key players playing in the international league are:
•        Khalsa Warriors- Raider- Jasmanpreet Singh (Raju)
•        Lahore Lions- Raider- Raider Shafiq Ahmad Chisti
•        Yo Yo Tigers- Raider- Manminder Singh
•        Royal Kings USA- Raider- Balram Singh
•        Royal Kings USA- Stopper- Jaskaran Singh
•        United Singhs- Raider- Sandeep Singh
•        Punjab Thunder- Stopper- Yadvinder Singh
•        Punjab Thunder- Stopper- Rana Alishan
•        Vancouver Lions- Raider- Sucha Singh
•        California Eagles- Raider- Jagmohan Makhi

The Wave WKL matches are broadcasted on Sony Six, the official broadcasting partner for the league in India. The first match will be played between California Eagles and Khalsa Warriors at 1900 IST. PTC is the international TV Broadcast partner for Wave WKL across markets of North America, South America, United Kingdom and Canada. You Tube is the official global streaming partner of Wave WKL.

Filled with excitement, on the momentous occasion; Shri. Pargat Singh, Commissioner, Wave WKL said, “Wave WKL is a pot-boiler for Kabaddi talent across the globe. After a spectacular start in London, we are bringing it to our Indian audiences. The matches in London and Birmingham saw intense action. All the teams have been playing very well and putting up a great show for the audiences. The competition will get tougher with each match. I am proud to announce the start of matches in India. I am really hopeful that it will be an engrossing and engaging experience for the audience.

On the occasion Mr. Raman Raheja, CEO, Wave WKL, said “Wave WKL has successfully established itself as an international sports brand. We received overwhelming response from the audience and spectators in United Kingdom. I am excited to start the matches in India today. I believe that the league will receive similar response in India. I am hopeful that Wave WKL will set new paradigm in sports entertainment. I wish all the franchisee good luck.”
The league is based on the Formula 1 touring sports format and is being played across 3 continents across 5 countries, i.e., United Kingdom, USA, Canada, Pakistan and India. Lahore Lions is again a very strong team which has always won by a clear margin from its opponents and would be in capital to specially attend the matches. WKL aims to become the go-to brand when it comes to sports entertainment or delivering value to its partners and sponsors. WKL as a brand embodies strength, power, agility, tactic, entertainment, masculinity and aggression. It is taking an indigenous Indian sport to the world and redefining it for the Indian audience.
It gives Kabaddi a ‘gladiatorial’ persona and adds loads of spunk and aura. We need to vie for a niche currently occupied by well-established sports like soccer and cricket. Our visual identity, tone and texture is global and aspirational.
About Wave WKL (Wave World Kabaddi League)
Wave World Kabaddi League is a society registered with the registrar of firms & societies having its registered office at Chandigarh & Corporate office at Gurgaon. The aim of the organization is to build a dynamic and sustainable global sports league that grows circle style Kabaddi as a Professional sport and engages fans and business associates with world class sports entertainment, better value and best experience and service.
The organization is committed towards driving mileage for a holistic ecosystem where fans transcend nationalities and actively participate amongst themselves, their teams and the league partners, thus becoming a truly global audience. The society respects the rich tradition of Kabaddi and would simultaneously focus on making the sport contemporary. WKL has generated immense excitement amongst a cross section of investors including repertoires from popular cultures, Corporate India, Private Equity investors, & NRI’s.
The world league will take the sport to state of the art venues and provide our guests with better entertainment in a clean, secure and comfortable environment. For more information, please visit http://www.worldkabaddileague.net/.
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JqvBgIFiOKo
FB: https://www.facebook.com/WorldKabaddiLeague
Twitter:https://twitter.com/WKLTweets

Team Name- California Eagles
Team Principal- Surjit Singh Tut, Owner
The Tut Group, proud owners of the team California Eagles is an established name in the field of organic farming since 1974. The group started a company by the name of Tut Brothers Entertainment in Watsonville, California. A family of 4 brothers with equal partnership namely Surjit Singh Tut, the eldest followed by Amarjit Singh Tut, Paritam Singh Tut and Ranjit Singh Tut are ace Punjabi farmers well known in the international and national market. The Tut Brothers run this successful business with a competitive turnover focusing primarily on processing and marketing of almonds. The company also sells organic citrus fruits, raisins, grapes besides owning large, sprawling acres of vineyards. They own a trucking business which takes care of all their produce-ferrying needs with the first truck bought in 1976. The Tut Group takes pride in introducing Americans to sugarcane. The in-house brand Belize in America hosts some 10, 000 acres of sugarcane otherwise oblivious to Americans. They have recently ventured into real estate with construction and development of housing projects. Tut Brothers are close to their roots. They are well known for their social development efforts back home in Punjab.
Team Name-Vancouver Lions, Vancouver
Team Principal- Gurjit Singh Purewal, Owner
Gurjit Singh Purewal is an Indian origin, British Columbia based Blue Berry farmer. Mr Purewal hails from Purewal village near Nawanshahr. The Purewal brothers, Gurmit Singh, Malkit Singh and Charan Singh, who migrated to British Columbia in Canada in 1979 and started the cultivation of blue berry in partnership with Nihal Singh Brar in 1981, now own a 1,000-acre "Blue farm" at Pittmeadows in British Columbia. Apart from this biggest blue berry farm in Canada, the Purewal brothers are also running a huge blue berry-processing unit.
Team Name -Punjab Thunder, Vancouver
Team Principals- Daljit Thind, Founder and CEO
Rajat Bedi, Bollywood actor
Monty Sikka, Serial entrepreneur
Thind Properties began as a company with a vision of building quality homes and creating value for their customers. Today, it is not only their vision, but it is their motto that they stand by with the homes they build. Daljit Thind has capsized the phrase “build it and they will come.” By transforming his humble beginnings into a path of developing custom homes, townhomes, condominiums, and current a project in excess of $100 million – Thind has become an industry pillar. His rapid success in such a short time characterizes the best attributes of immigrant entrepreneurialism.

Team Name-Yo Yo Tigers, Toronto
Team Principal-Yo Yo Honey Singh, Music director, singer and Bollywood actor
Honey Singh better known by his stage name Yo Yo Honey Singh is an Indian rapper, music producer, singer and film actor. He started as a session and recording artist, and became a Bhangra producer. He has also begun to produce music for Bollywood films. Chaar Botal Vodka, Blue Eyes, Hip Hop are some of his popular track. He has sung for popular Bollywood start like Shahrukh Khan & Salman Khan. His track Lungi Dance topped all musical charts last year. Honey Singh is a sports enthusiast and owns Global Fighting Championship (GFC), a boxing league in Dubai, he practices mixed martial arts regularly.

Team Name- United Singhs, Birmingham
Team Principals-Mr. Talwinder Hayer, Owner
Ms. Sonakshi Sinha-Co-Owner
United Sports Club Pvt. Ltd. is a leading sports body in the United Kingdom. Besides sports, the Hayre Group has stakes in real estate and is angel investors’ to many promising start-ups. The group is focused towards promoting circle style Kabaddi. For the last decade the group has organised various kabaddi tournaments and financially supported various Punjabi clubs promoting Kabaddi. Being a proud Punjabi and grown up in UK, United Singhs as their team’s name was a rather obvious choice. The group owners both Talwinder Singh Hayre and Kavan Singh Hayre believe Kabaddi has great potential as a sport. They feel with proper ecosystem coupled with professional guidance, the sport can be as competitive as any other established sport.
Team Name-Royal Kings USA, Sacramento, California
Team Principal- Mr.Sarb Thiara, CFO
Thiara Company is located in the United States and is well known internationally. It is well established for farming almonds, peaches, prunes and walnuts, which are processed and marketed world-wide. They are also known for operating and owning a trucking fleet. Thiara Company is a funding contributor to many political campaigns in the United States. They believe that Kabaddi is a competitive sport like any other well-established sport and with proper professional guidance this sport can reach greater heights.

Team Name- Lahore Lions, Lahore
Team Principal-DG, Pakistan’s Punjab
The Government of Punjab, a provincial government in the federal structure of Pakistan, is based in Lahore, the capital of the Punjab Province. The Punjab or Panjab province of Pakistan is the country's most populous region and is home to the Punjabis and various other groups. The government of Punjab, Pakistan has always promoted sports in the country and among the youth of the nation. Director General of Punjab, Pakistan was also the Sports Minister of Pakistan and currently is the principal of the team.
Team Name-Khalsa Warriors, London
Team Principals-Mr. Gurdeep Singh, Managing Director                                  Mr. Akshay Kumar, Co-owner
Fastway Sports Development Pvt. Limited is a subsidiary of Fastway Transmissions which is the fastest growing Master Satellite Operators (MSO) in North India. A joint venture between Mr. Gurdeep Singh and Digicable Network India Pvt. Ltd, Fastway services provides both Digital and Analogue TV services in majority of areas in Northern India states namely, Punjab, Himachal Pradesh, Haryana and Union Territory of Chandigarh. Fastway Digital TV Services currently offer 336 Digital Channels and 30 Radio Channels. Fastway uses cutting edge technology and offers DVD quality Video and Sound. For better customer services & support Fastway offers 7 days Electronic Programming Guide (EPG). Customers can navigate through the EPG to check the timing for his favorite program for upcoming seven days.
City         Date
London          9th and 10th of August
Birmingham        16th and 17th of August
New Delhi        23rd, 24th, 30th and 31st of August
Ludhiana         6th and 7th of September
Stockton, California        13th and 14th of September
Abbotsford, Vancouver        20th and 21st of September
Sacramento, California        27th and 28th of September
Toronto         4th and 5th of October
Surrey, Vancouver        11th and 12th of October
Amritsar        17th, 18th and 19th of October
Mohali        24th, 25th and 26th of October
Jalandhar        31st of October
        1st and 2nd of November
Ludhiana        6th, 7th, 8th and 9th of November
Bathinda        14th, 15th and 16th of November
Ludhiana        21st, 22nd and 23rd of November
Lahore        29th and 30th of November

DR CHEEMA SEEKS FOOLPROOF SECURITY AND TRAFFIC ARRANGEMENTS FOR TET

· WRITES TO ADGP

· SETS UP 345 EXAMINATION CENTRES FOR 183695 STUDENTS

CHANDIGARH, AUGUST 22:

The Punjab Education Minister Dr. Daljit Singh Cheema today sought foolproof arrangements regarding traffic and security for scheduled Teachers Eligibility Test scheduled for 24th August, 2014 at over 345 centres across the state.

In two separate communiqués to ADGP, Security & ADGP, Traffic, the Minister said that since lakhs of candidates have to appear in this test, it was imperative to have proper security and traffic arrangements for this and Police department should make proper arrangements for the same.

Meanwhile, the Punjab Government has done all arrangement for smooth conduction of Teacher Eligibility test which was conduct on August 24 in the state. Dr Cheema said that the state government has set up 400 examination centre for conducting TET in which 183695 students would appear. Out of 183695 students, 47859 students would appear for TET-1 where as 135836 students appear for TET-2. He said that TET-1 would be conducted from 10:30 am to 1:30 pm for ETT passed students and TET-2 would be conducted from 2:30 pm to 5:00 pm for B.Ed. passed students. He said that special arrangements have been made for physically challenged students at all centres and they would also be given 20 minutes extra per hour. He said that in order to ensure the transparency and to check the mal practice videography would be conducted at all centres. For the smooth conduction of the test 36 Nodal Centres have also been established at District as well as Sub Division level. Similarly helpline 1860 180 1814 (Toll Free) has also been set up.

Dr. Cheema said that strict instructions have been issued for transparent conduct of the test. He said that in students have been permitted to carry home the carbon copy of the answer sheet along with question paper, so that they could self evaluate themselves. After two days of examination the original answer sheet of question paper would be uploaded on website. Students could file objections within five days of the declaration of the results.

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PHYSICAL TRIALS FOR THE 110 POSTS OF SUB-INSPECTORS (FEMALE)

FROM SEPTEMBER 2

Chandigarh, August 22: The physical trials of the candidates, who had applied for 110 posts of Sub-Inspectors (Female) in Punjab Police, has been scheduled from September 2 onwards.

Disclosing this here today, an official spokesman said that these physical trials would be held at three centers namely PAP Ground, Jalandhar Cantt., Police Lines, Ferozepur and Police Lines, Fatehgarh Sahib. He said that the further details regarding time, date and venue had already been uploaded on August 1 on the websites of C-DAC, Mohali and Punjab Police. He has asked the concerned candidates to ensure their participation at the concerned centre.

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CM EXHORTS INDUSTRIALISTS TO IMPART SKILL TRAINING TO YOUTH AS MISSION MODE

DISTRIBUTES CERTIFICATES TO FIRST BATCH OF TECHNICAL GRADUATES IN ‘HUNAR’

ASKS INDUSTRIAL TYCOONS AND ENTREPRENEURS TO COME FORWARD TO ESTABLISH THESE SKILL UP-GRADATION AND TRAINING CENTERS AS A PART OF THEIR CSR

VISITS SPECIAL SCHOOL FOR MERITORIOUS STUDENTS AND DRUG DE-ADDICTION CENTER

Ludhiana, August 22-

Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today exhorted the eminent industrial houses to play a vanguard role in opening skill centers to upscale the existing skills and expertise of their employees besides imparting skill training to the unemployed youth as a ‘mission mode’.

Addressing a selected gathering, after giving away the certificates to the first batch of supervisors and welders who had undergone technical training in ‘Hunar’ a skill centre of Hero group in its premises, the Chief Minister said that such Industrial tycoons and entrepreneurs should come forward to establish these skill up-gradation and training centers as a part of their Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR). He said that it was the need of the hour that the industrial units and the state government should join hands to impart quality skill training to the unemployed youth for making them self employed on one hand and weaning them away from the drugs on the other. Mr. Badal, while lauding the Hero group for opening the center, expressed hope that this centre would act as lighthouse for the other industrial units to follow its footsteps adding that the state government would provide fulsome support and cooperation to the industrial units for such endeavors.

Pertinently on the personal persuasion of the Chief Minister, the Hero Group had set up this center, which was inaugurated by Mr. Badal last year. The Chief Minister also urged the other industrialists to replicate the same model in their industrial premises to empower the unemployed youth with upgradation and provision of new technical skills especially in cycle, textile, knitwear, small scale and machine tool to cater the need of specialized labour in local industry.

In his address Chairman of the Hero Cycles, Mr. OP Munjal expressed his gratitude towards the Chief Minister for sparing his valuable time for the function.

Addressing the gathering Mr. Pankaj Munjal said that the group selected its most promising workers through scientifically-designed evaluation process consisting of written test and interview to enroll them in a program that would graduate them from worker to supervisor and put them in a leadership role. He said that the Hero Cycles tied-up with Chitkara University which successfully conducted this program. Mr. Munjal said that going a step ahead Hero Cycles now plans to increase its involvement with the Punjab Government to create more such centers with much higher intake of students and a wider scope of skills.

Later on the Chief Minister accompanied by his Advisor Mr. Mahesh Inder Singh Grewal and Special Principal Secretary Mr. KJS Cheema visited the Special school for meritorious students in the city and interacted with the students. Acceding to the demand made by the students, he approved the opening of canteen cum stationary shop in the school and directed the officers to provide playground to the students.

Likewise, he also visited the Drug de-addiction center at local Civil Hospital.

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CM GIVES NOD FOR SETTING MULTI SKILL CENTER AT LUDHIANA

CENTER TO COME UP AT ABANDONED PREMISES OF ‘KNITWEAR FACILITY’

MOVE AIMED AT EMERGING STATE AS A HUB OF ‘SKILLED MANPOWER’

CENTER TO IMPART TECHNICAL TRAINING TO 2000 YOUTH ANNUALLY IN 15 COURSES

COMMITTEE HEADED BY EMINENT INDUSTRIALIST PANKAJ MUNJAL TO RUN THE AFFAIRS OF THIS CENTER

COMMITTEE MANDATED TO CONSULT CII AND OTHER PREMIER ORGANIZATIONS FOR PREPARING TRAINING MODULE OF CENTER

Ludhiana, August 22-

Taking a leap forward for emerging the state a hub of ‘Skilled manpower’ through product and process innovation, the Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today gave nod for setting up a state-of-the art Multi Skill center at the vacant lying premises of ‘Knitwear Facility’, managed and run by Punjab State Hosiery and Knitwear Development Corporation, here at local Industrial Focal point.

A decision to this effect was taken by the Chief Minister during a high level meeting with the captains of the local industry here at circuit house.

Taking part in deliberations the Chief Minister, who earlier visited the premises of this defunct center in the morning, impressed upon the Industrialists to play a pro-active role in the promotion of Skill training centers across the state with a twin objective of coping up with the needs of industry to have skilled manpower on one hand and opening new vistas of employment for the youth on the other. Assuring fulsome support and cooperation to the industrialists for executing and managing this ambitious project, he said that the entire capital cost of restructuring and renovating the existing infrastructure at the Knitwear facility would be borne by the state government and the Committee comprising of eminent industrialists would manage the affairs of this upcoming Multi skill center. Underscoring the need for providing separate Hostel facility for the Girls and boys enrolling in this Multi Skill Center, Mr. Badal asked the eminent industrialist to visit the ‘Knitwear Facility’ along with the officers of district administration to have first hand information for preparing a Detailed Project Report for this Center.

The Chief Minister further said that imparting quality skill training to the youth across the state was the need of hour to stamp out the curse of unemployment from the state. He said that this Multi skill center would impart training to 2000 unemployed youth, particularly to encompass the major section of drop outs who left the studies after tenth or twelfth due to economic hardships, every year in around 15 courses in Bicycle/ cycle parts, textile, apparel and garments, auto components, hand tools and light engineering industry besides in service sector including Hospitality, retail, healthcare and others. He also asked the Committee to put in place a training module for the students in consultation with Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) and other premier organizations engaged in skill training programs.

The Chief Minister further said that there was tremendous scope of skilled manpower in Health, industrial and service sectors due to which the state government has been focusing to deliver quality skill training to the youth on modern lines for coping up with the demand of local industry. He said that three para medical skill centers would be soon opened in the state at Faridkot, Amritsar and Patiala to give boost to Medical skill training in the state adding that even the upcoming Rehabilitation centers for drug addicts would also focus on providing skill training to the youth for gainful self employment. Likewise, Mr. Badal also said that Skill centers were also being opened in Jails across the state to impart skill training to the inmates.

On the occasion the Chief Minister also constituted a committee of key industrialists headed by Mr. PankajMunjal to look into the affairs of this Multi Skill center. The other members of committee included Ms. Sandeep Minni Riat, Mr. SP Oswal, Mr. Upkar Singh, Mr. SC Ralhan, Mr. Avtar Singh and Deputy Commissioner Ludhiana. Mr. Badal also directed the Deputy Commissioner to get this committee/ society registered at the earliest for the smooth management of its affairs.

Summing up the deliberations, the Chief Minister asked the committee to implement this project within three months and assured to provide lump sum amount requisite for repair, renovation besides machinery/ infra structure required for skill training as a part of capital cost. He further said that once the project took off the running expenses for managing the day-to-day affairs would be equally shared by the state government and society. Mr. Badal also asked the committee especially the Deputy Commissioner to work out the modalities for the renovation of premises of ‘Knitwear Facility’ according to the requirement to impart training to atleast 2000 unemployed youth every year.

Earlier welcoming the Chief Minister, MD Hero Cycles Mr. Pankaj Munjal highly appreciated his vision and concern to empower the educated unemployed youth of the state by affording them an opportunity of skill training so that they could be meaningfully absorbed in the local industry. Mr. Munjal reiterated his firm commitment to emerge the upcoming skill training center as a major hub in this regard in the region.

Prominent amongst those who attended the meeting included Cabinet Minister Mr. Sharanjeet Singh Dhilon, Advisor to Chief Minister Mr. Mahesh Inder Singh Grewal, MLA Mr. Darshan Singh Shivalik, Principal Secretary Industries Mr. Sanjay Kumar, Special Principal Secretary to Chief Minister Mr. KJS Cheema, Secretary cum Director Industries Mr. Raminder Singh and Deputy Commissioner Mr. Rajat Aggarwal.

The Industry was represented by MD Hero Cycles Mr. Pankaj Munjal, MD Akal Springs Ms. Sandeep Minni Riat, MD Vardhman Special Steel Mr. Sachit Jain, MD Ralson Mr. Sanjeev Pahwa, MD New Swan Industries Mr. US Ahuja, CMD Trident Group Mr. Rajendra Gupta and Mr. Vishal Juneja from Vidhata group.

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SECOND GREEN REVOLUTION NEEDED TO MAKE PUNJAB NUMBER ONE IN HORTICULTURE PRODUCTION: JATHEDAR TOTA SINGH

· MINISTER ASKS OFFICIALS TO REVITALIZE EXTENSION NETWORK TO REACH OUT TO FARMERS

Chandigarh, August 22: The Punjab Agriculture Minister Jathedar Tota Singh today gave a call for Second Green Revolution in the State to make Punjab number one state in the country in the production of Vegetable, Fruits and Flowers.

Presiding over a meeting of the Horticulture department Minister asked the officials to strengthen extension network of the department to reach out tothe farmers to facilitate them to increase production and focus on diversification of crops to bring out the farmers from the vicious circle of traditional crops.

The Minister said that the officials should work on to improve the quality of varieties of Vegetables, Fruits and flowers which could be exported and also encourage farmers to grow such varieties. He said that the officials should provide scientific assistance to make these crops profitable to the farmers. He also asked the officials to draft farmer friendly proposals which would be approved at the government level without any delay.

Jathedar Tota Singh said that besides providing subsidies under National Horticulture Mission to the farmers, the state horticulture department should use innovative ways to provide training to encourage farmers for diversified agriculture. He said that department should make practical illustrations in the fields of farmers to aware them to use new scientific techniques to increase quality production of crops with low cost.

He asked the department officials to use new mediums to make people aware about diversified farming. The Minister asked officials to provide technical support and advice to farmers who want to make a Polly and Net house. He said that such farmers should be provided all information to protect Polly houses and net houses from strong winds.

Jathedar Tota Singh said that all efforts are being done to establish more food processing units in the state. He said that Punjab Government in the leadership of Chief Minister S. Parkash Singh Badal has taken up the matter with the NDA led union government for setting up food processing units in the state which are already showing positive results.

Others prominent present in the meeting Mr. Suresh Kumar included Financial Commissioner Development, Mr. Balwinder Singh Sidhu Commissioner Agriculture, Mr. Arvinder Singh Bains MD Warehousing, Dr. Lajvinder Singh Brar Director Horticulture, Dr. Gurkanwal Singh Joint Director Horticulture Punjab and district horticulture officers.

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CM URGES ALL THE POLITICAL PARTIES TO REFRAIN FROM HOOTING

TERMS INDIA AS A SECULAR AND SOVEREIGN STATE

LAUNCHES SCHEME FOR WELFARE OF WIDOWS IN THE STATE

Ludhiana, August 22-

Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today called upon the representatives of all the political parties to strictly maintain decorum, discipline and refrain from creating ruckus by way of ‘hooting’ and other unsavory acts of distraction during public functions.

Interacting with the media persons of the sidelines of the function to mark the launch of scheme for the welfare of Widows here at PAU, the Chief Minister said that this unhealthy practice was not only undemocratic but also ethically and morally deplorable. Asked to comment on the recent incidents of ‘hooting’ during Prime Minister’s function in Haryana, Mr. Badal said that he was unable to comment specifically as he never knew whether this incident was just spontaneous or well planned.

Replying to another query regarding the RSS Chief Mohan Bhagwat’s statement on Hindutva, the Chief Minister said that India being a secular and sovereign state was inhabited by people of different religions, castes, faiths and communities and therefore we must respect all the religions with reverence and should abstain from hurting the sentiments of people having faith in different religions and cults. Mr. Badal categorically said that he had been a true votary of peace, communal harmony and brotherhood throughout his political career spanning over nearly six decades and had ever given the precedence to it even over other important aspects of development and infra structural growth.

Earlier addressing the gathering, the Chief Minister highly appreciated he philanthropic gesture of founder Chairman of Loomba Foundation Lord Raj Loomba for launching the project to offer self employment opportunities to the Widows by imparting training in tailoring, stitching, embroidery and dress designing. He called upon the leading Industrialists and entrepreneurs to come forward for setting up such welfare projects in partnership with government adding he said that the state government would extend all possible help and cooperation in this regard. Mr. Badal impressed upon the trustee Mrs. Aruna Oswal to come up with a detailed proposal for establishing such project jointly in collaboration with the state government.

The Chief Minister said that the state government had already been giving matching grant to establish any sort of development project by NRIs in his or her village/ city and today’s launch of this project jointly by Loomba foundation and state government in which both have equally invested Rs 1 crore each was a part of this ambitious scheme. Underscoring the need to develop several skill development projects, Mr. Badal said that it was the need of hour and the philanthropist like Lord Loomba should further take the lead to transform the destiny of our state on one hand besides shaping the future of millions of unemployed youth on the other.

In his welcome address the founder trustee Lord Raj Loomba said it was his dream project which had been finally fulfilled with the support of the Punjab government. He highly commended the Chief Minister for his concern for the poor and needy by initiating welfare projects/ schemes and today’s launch of this pro-people project was a positive step in this direction. Lord Loomba lamented the plight of widows in the society especially as his own mother became widow when he was just 10 years old and hardships and mental agony through which she passed in nurturing him, inspired him the most to bring this project on ground.

Prominent amongst those present on the occasion included Cabinet Minister Mr. Parminder Singh Dhindsa, Advisor to Chief Minister Mr. Mahesh Inder Singh Grewal, Special Principal Secretary to Chief Minister Mr. KJS Cheema, Commissioner NRI Affairs Mr. B Purshartha, Deputy Commissioner Mr. Rajat Aggarwal, Champion of the foundation Graham Tobbell and his wife Mrs. Susane Tobbell.

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PUNJAB ANNOUNCES ROTATIONAL IRRIGATION PROGRAMME

CHANDIGARH, AUGUST 22:

The Punjab Irrigation Department has announced rotational irrigation programme for the Kharif Season through canal water from 26-08-2014 to 02-09-2014. 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, Abohar Branch and Patiala Feeder, respectively.

Disclosing this here, an official spokesperson of the Irrigation Department said that Direct Distributaries of BML in Group A, being in the first preference, would run to their indent. Balance water supplies available, would be utilized in Ghaggar Branch and Patiala Minor in Group B.

He said that Punjab channels and branches off-taking from Harike and Ferozpur Head Works, all the Direct Distributaries of Sirhind Feeder in Group A, being in first preference, would run to their indent. Balance water supplies available, would be utilized Abohar Branch off-taking from Sirhind Feeder and its distributaries/minors, in Group B.

The spokesman further said that the in the Upper Bari Doab Canal system, Sabhroan Branch with its distributaries, being in the first preference, would run to their indent. Balance water supplies available, would be utilized in, Kasur Branch Lower, Main Branch Lower and Lahore Branch with their distributaries, respectively.

82.34 PER CENT POLLING IN TALWANDI SABO AND 60 PER CENT IN PATIALA: CEO

· PATIALA AND TALWANDI SABO BY-ELECTIONS CONCLUDED PEACEFULLY

CHANDIGARH, AUGUST 21:

Punjab Chief Electoral Officer Mr. V.K. Singh today said that aggregate 71.17 per cent voting has been recorded at both Patiala and Talwandi Sabo assembly constituencies. He said that polling was ‘by and large’ peaceful and there was no report of any untoward incident from any polling booth

CEO said that latest information reaching here in the evening stated that about 60 per cent polling was recorded in Patiala, whereas 82.34 per cent voting witnessed in Talwandi Sabo assembly constituency.

Mr. V.K. Singh further said that the counting of votes for assembly by-elections would take place on August 25, 2014 and the result would be declared on same day.

He said that both districts’ administrations had made elaborate security arrangements for today’s polling. Large number of police was deployed in all vulnerable points. He extended his gratitude towards all the Political Parties and thanked the pooling staff and Police for enabling free and fare conduction of voting.

CEO also congratulated the voters of both constituencies for ensuring peaceful conduct of elections.

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2 PPS OFFICER TRANSFERRED

CHANDIGARH, AUGUST 21:

Punjab Government today partial modified transfer orders of 2 PPS officers out of 34 PPS Officers which was released on August 19, 2014. It was disclosed by an Official Spokesman of the Punjab Government.

The Spokesman said that Mr. Rajinder Singh, PPS has been posted as SP/Investigation while Mr. Sheilendra SINGH, PPS has been posted as Assistant Commandant, 1st Bn. Bahadurgarh (Patiala).

NO: PR/14/569

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VIGILANCE NABS PATWARI IN GRAFT CASE

CHANDIGARH, AUGUST 21:

Punjab Vigilance Bureau today nabbed a Patwari red-handed while accepting bribe of Rs.4000.

Disclosing this here, an official spokesperson of the Vigilance Bureau said that Patwari Ajit Ram, posted at Revenue Area Malewal, Tehsil Balachaur, district SBS Nagar was caught on the complaint of Harbhaj Ram of village Garle Dhaahan, district SBS Nagar. Harbhaj Ram has lodged a complaint against Patwari Ajit Ram for demanding bribe for demarcation of his land.

Spokesperson further said that on the tip off, a trap was laid by the Vigilance Bureau Unit, SBS Nagar, which was led by DSP Joginder Pal. The accused Patwari was nabbed red-handed, while receiving bribe of Rs.4000 from the complainant.

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PUNJAB TO NURTURE MERITORIOUS STUDENTS TO CRACK COMPETITIVE EXAMS: DR CHEEMA

· INTERACTS WITH STUDENTS AT RESIDENTIAL SCHOOL FOR MERITORIOUS STUDENTS MOHALI

· MOTIVATES THEM TO ACHIEVE NEW HEIGHTS OF SUCCESS

MOHALI/CHANDIGARH, AUGUST 21:

The unique program of the Statesman Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal to provide quality residential education to meritorious students of the state was kick-started by Punjab Education Minister Dr. Daljeet Singh Cheema here today with unveiling of vision paper that focused on grooming students of these schools to crack competitive exams like IIT JEE, AIPMT, CA, Company Secretary besides the premier Civil Services exams.

Felicitating the students at Senior Secondary Residential School of Meritorious Students at Sector 70 here, Dr. Cheema said that these students are the cream of intellects selected from all over the State and it was the duty of education department to ensure that they excel in their chosen academic fields. He said that education department has already organised specialised and individual coaching classes for meritorious students and hoped that with the collective efforts these students would bring laurels to the state by cracking premier competitive exams.

Interacting with students from non medical stream, Dr. Cheema motivated them to cracking IIT should be the goal of all students as Punjab government is ready to provide additional support and academic coaching to these students. He also gave a call to medical stream students to academically excel in their studies to become doctors. He said that after becoming doctor they can serve the society, state and country.The Education Minister also took a round of state-of-the-art laboratory, library and hi-tech class rooms to gauge the arrangements and facilities for these students.

Emphasizing the need for nurturing the talented grass root level he said that education department has already initiated a scheme to spot such talent at a younger age so as to groom them according to their potential.

Project Director of Residential Schools Lt. Gen. K.S. Bhullar (retd) apprised the minister that the session in 6 residential schools has been commenced. He said that free education, hostel, food and other facilities were being provided to these students. He informed the minister that as many as 331 students have got admissions in Mohali Residential School out of which 225 were of non medical stream, 54 of commerce and 52 of medical where well-qualified and expert 18 teachers have been deputed. He said this school has been constructed at the cost of Rs. 28.16 crore having four buildings with separate residences of staff, girls and boys students.

It was also informed that special arrangements have also been made for the facilitation of physically challenged students in school premises according to their convenience.

Dr. Cheema was accompanied by Mr. Gurdeep Singh, Special Secretary, Mr. Kamal Garg, DPI (S), Mr. Mewa Singh Sidhu, DEO (S), Mr. Gurjit Singh, DEO (E) and Mr. Resham Singh Aulakh, Principal, Senior Secondary Residential School of Meritorious Students.

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2ND SPECIAL CHECKING IN 832 SCHOOLS IN LAST 3 DAYS CAUGHT 216 TEACHERS NAPPING

· 69 TEACHERS FOUND ABSENT, 63 LONG TIME ABSENTEES, 84 LATE DETECTED

CHANDIGARH, AUGUST 21:

The Special Teams of Education Department today conducted surprise visits in three districts including Jalandhar, Faridkot and Nabha with a view to maintain punctuality and discipline in Punjab Schools and found 69 teachers absent, listed 63 long time absentee teachers and 84 late comers. It may be mentioned that it is the 2nd Special Surprise check in last 3 days. On Tuesday Special teams of the Education Department conducted surprise checks in 984 schools in which total 35 teachers were found absent while 51 teachers were late whereas 23 teachers were found long time absentees.

Disclosing this here today an official spokesperson said that following the directions of Education Minister Dr. Daljit Singh Cheema the special teams were conducting surprise checks throughout the state to ensure punctuality and discipline. He said that three Circles namely Jalandhar, Faridkot and Nabha (Patiala) today visited by the special teams at the same time. He said that during the special checking total 69 teachers were found absent while 84 teachers were late whereas 63 teachers were found long time absentees. He said that immediately after opening the schools special teams visited 426 schools of Jalandhar Circle, 187 schools of Nabha (Patiala) Circle and 219 schools of Faridkot Circle.

He further said that 44 teachers were found absent in Jalandhar Circle and 63 were late comers while 37 found long time absentee. In Nabha (Patiala) Circle 9 teachers were found absent, 9 late comers and 11 were long time absentee. Similarly, in Faridkot Circle 16 teachers were found absent, 12 late comers and 15 were found long time absentee.

PRESS NOTE

Chandigarh, August 21:

Long pending demand of Punjab Technical University (PTU) to resume its Open Distance Learning (ODL) Programme has been accepted by Ministry of Human Resource and Development (MHRD), New Delhi vide its letter no. D.O.F.No. UGC/DEB/PTU/PUN/2012 dated Aug 6, 2014. As a consequence of this, PTU will be able to provide Open Distance Learning Programme within its territorial jurisdiction through its own centres not through its franchises. This has been made possible with the consistent efforts of Sh. Madan Mohan Mittal, Minister of Technical Education and Industrial Training Punjab. The Vice Chancellor of Punjab Technical University has been instructed to act upon it immediately, so that students of Punjab undergoing Open Distance Learning Programme may not suffer anymore.

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DISTRICT JUDGE (RETD) MALHOTRA APPOINTED CONVENER OF SLAUGHTER HOUSE COMMITTEE

CHANDIGARH AUGUST 20:

The Punjab Government has appointed Mr. M.L. Malhotra, District Judge (Retd) as Convener of Slaughter House Committee. According to the official spokesperson, this appointment has been made for the period of 2 years under the 52 (1) (B) section of the Punjab Municipal Act, 1911.

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ALL VACANT POSTS TO BE FILLED IN THE CENTRES/INSTITUTES RUN BY THE SOCIAL SECURITY DEPARTMENT: JAYANI

· MINISTER ANNOUNCES TO START NEW TRADES IN THE VOCATIONAL REHABILITATION CENTRES

· INSTRUCTS PROVIDE QUALITY FOOD TO CHILDREN

Chandigarh, August 20: Punjab Government has decided to the fill all vacant posts in the destitute homes & rehabilitation centres in the state. Presiding over a meeting here today to review the progress report of these institutes Mr. Surjeet Kumar Jayani Minister for Social Security, Women & Child Development, Punjab instructed senior officials of the department to immediately start this process.

Minister Jayani said that process to fill all vacant posts of teachers in the Blind School, Ludhiana should also be started on priority to provide better teaching facilities to blind children.

Minister asked the Director Social Security Mr. GurKirat Kirpal Singh to take up the matter with the Deputy Commissioners about the vacant posts of these institutes which are to be filled at Deputy Commissioner level. Minister said that to provide quality food, cleanliness and security in the institutes these posts needs to be filled urgently. He also asked the director to take up the matter of providing proper security of the institutes with the concerned department.

In the meeting it was decided to start new trades of computers, Beautician, Cookery and Mobile repair etc in the vocational rehabilitation centres to make youth self employed as per needs of the present hour.

Mr. Jayani after giving a peaceful detailed hearing to all the problems and grievances of the superetidents/incharges of these institutes said that there would be no shortage of funds but the funds should be utilized properly. Minister also asked the officials to ensure paint (Kalli) in all the institutes every year. He also said that the funds especially should reach the institutes on time so that quality food could be provided to the inmates. He also gave approval to increase the amount from 3 thousand to 10 thousand per item for the purchase of ration every month.

Mr. Jayani instructed officials of the Head Office to dispose of all letters/proposals sent by the superitidents/incharges of these institutes within 15 days and there should be a written communication to these letters. He said that if this is not implemented then the concerned official have to face the heat.

Earlier Mr. Jaspal Singh Secretary, Social Security Department briefed the minister about the various institutes and their functioning run by the department in the state. Others prominent in the meeting included Mr. Gurkirat Kirpal Singh Director Social Security, Mr. Rajnish Kumar, Deputry Director, Mr. G.S Maur Deputy Director, supretidents and incharges of all the institutes.

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PUNJAB PROMOTES 10 COACHES/SENIOR COACHES AS DISTRICT SPORTS OFFICER/ASSISTANT DIRECTORS

Chandigarh, August 20:

The Punjab Government today promoted 10 coaches/senior coaches of sports department as District Sports Officers/Assistant Directors with immediate effect.

Disclosing this here today, an official spokesperson said that Mahinder Singh, Jasbirpal Kaur, Sukhbir Kaur, Satinderpal Kaur, Karam Singh, Amrik Singh, Manohar Singh, Rakesh Kaushal, Darshan Singh and Sukhdev Singh have been promoted as District Sports Officers/Assistant Directors. He said that these officers would get the pay scale (Group-A) of 10300-34800+5000 grade pay

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CM TERMS ISSRU SHOE HURLING INCIDENT AS A ‘DEEP ROOTED POLITICAL CONSPIRACY’

· ASKS POLITICAL PARTIES FROM STOOPING TOO LOW TO COUNTER THEIR POLITICAL RIVALS

· LAW WOULD TAKE ITS OWN COURSE AGAINST PERPETRATORS OF THIS CRIME

· PUNJAB TO WITNESS ERA OF UNPRECEDENTED DEVELOPMENT UNDER VISIONARY, DYNAMIC AND PROGRESSIVE LEADERSHIP OF MODI

· MODI WITH MODEST BACKGROUND WELL AWARE OF COMMON MAN’S MISERIES

· GLORIOUS PAYS TRIBUTE TO SANT HARCHAND SINGH LONGOWAL

Longowal (Sangrur), August 20-

Terming the Issru shoe hurling incident as a ‘deep rooted political conspiracy’, the Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today said that the political parties must refrain from stooping too low for countering their political rivals.

Interacting with the media persons after paying tribute to Sant Harchand Singh Longowal in a function to mark his 29th martyrdom day here today, the Chief Minister said that it was unfortunate that the Aam Aadmi Party leadership had conceived this act just to counter the growing popularity of Shiromani Akali Dal-BJP government in the state. He said that it was an unfortunate incident which was condemned by one and all. However, Mr. Badal said that as it was a part of the bigger conspiracy so the law would take its own course against the perpetrators of this crime.

Replying to another query, the Chief Minister said that the state government was always ready to have dialogue with any section of the society to redress their grievances. He said that the doors of the state government were always open for everyone to have talk on any issue.

Earlier addressing the mammoth gathering, the Chief Minister vowed to make Punjab a leading state of the country with the proactive help of the NDA government at the centre. He said that the visionary, dynamic and progressive leadership of Prime Minister Mr. Narendra Modi would help the state government in heralding a new era of unprecedented development in Punjab. Mr. Badal said that the routing out of UPA government from the Centre marks the end of step motherly treatment with the state adding that Punjab would soon reach the pinnacle of its glory under the NDA regime.

The Chief Minister said that as Prime Minister Mr. Narendra Modi hails from a modest background so he was well aware of the miseries faced by the common man. He said that with a mission to bail out the common man from the vicious circle of poverty and inflation, Mr. Modi was drafting the policies of the Government of India (GoI). However, Mr. Badal said that it was too early to assess the performance of the NDA and the Prime Minister must be given some time to perform.

Lashing out at the Congress party, the Chief Minister, while squarely blaming it for meting out step motherly treatment to the state, said that the Industry and Agriculture of Punjab was ruined due to regressive policies of the Congress party during its six decade long rule in the country. He said that the Congress had never given any big ticket industrial project to the state during their rule and had rather thwarted the attempt of industrialization in the state by giving incentives to the neighboring states. “The Punjabis could never forgive the Congress party as it has irrelevantly meddled in their social, political, economic and even the religious affairs” added Mr. Badal.

Earlier paying rich tributes to Sant Harchand Singh Longowal, the Chief Minister said that the real homage to this great son of soil would be to uphold the hard earned peace, amity, brotherhood and communal harmony in the state. He said that though some forces which were inimical to the progress and development of the state were trying to fan the feelings of hatred and divisiveness in the state but the state government was committed to foil any such attempt by keeping a strict vigil over the entire situation. “We will crush the ugly head of all those forces who aspire to derail the progress and development of state” added Mr. Badal.

Recalling the supreme sacrifice made by Sant Harchand Singh Longowal to safeguard the interests of the Sikh community, the Chief Minister said that Sant Longowal was not only a great Sikh scholar and philosopher but his entire life was an inspiration for the politicians as well as common man. He said that Sant Ji had the distinction of serving the people from all the aspects whether it was religious, social or political. Mr. Badal said that Sant Ji mobilized the people against the anti-Emergency movement and Dharam Yudh Morcha to safeguard the interests of the people.

The Chief Minister further said that Sant Ji had laid down his life for safeguarding the communal harmony, peace and amity to usher in an era of unprecedented development in Punjab. However he said that then Congress Union government had back stabbed Sant Harchand Singh Longowal by not implementing the clauses of Rajeev-Longowal accord, for which the Punjabis could never forgive the Congress.

On the occasion state BJP President Mr. Kamal Sharma, Rajya Sabha MP Mr. Sukhdev Singh Dhindsa and Lok Sabha MP Prof. Prem Singh Chandumajra also offered floral tributes to Sant Longowal.

Prominent amongst those who were present on the occasion included Cabinet Ministers Mr. Parminder Singh Dhindsa and Mr. Chunni Lal Bhagat, Chief Parliamentary Secretaries Babu Parkash Chand Garg and Sant Balvir Singh Ghunas, MLA Mr. Iqbal Singh Jhunda, former Union Minister Mr. Balwant Singh Ramoowalia, former Punjab Ministers Mr. Gobind Singh Kaanjla and Mr. Gobind Singh Longowal and Special Principal Secretary of Chief Minister Dr. S Karunaraju.

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PUNJAB GOVERNMENT TO INITIATE TECHNO-SOCIAL AUDIT OF INFRASTRUCTURE PROJECTS

· EXERCISE TO ENSURE PEOPLE’S PARTICIPATION & PARTICIPATION OF TECHNICAL INSTITUTIONS IN THE DEVELOPMENT OF THE STATE

CHANDIGARH, AUGUST 20:

In pursuance of the vision & directions of the Chief Minister and Deputy Chief Minister outlined in a meeting of all Deputy Commissioners and senior officers recently, the Punjab Government has started preparation to initiate social audit of all the infrastructure projects in the State .The aim of this exercise is to bring more transparency into implementation of infrastructure projects of the State.

Disclosing this here today an official spokesperson of the Punjab Government said that in a brain-storming session held under the chairmanship of Mr. Sarvesh Kaushal, Chief Secretary, Punjab,It was felt that social audit should be conducted for various Infrastructure projects being implemented by various departments like Public Works Department (PWD), PIDB, Irrigation, Local Government, Housing & Urban Development,Mandi Board etc. It was also suggested in the meeting that top engineering institutes in the State should be associated for the purpose. It was informed that 6 engineering colleges of the State including Punjab Engineering College (PEC), Thapar University and others have already given their consent to carry out the techno-social audit of various ongoing and future infrastructure projects of the State. It was recommended that dedicated funds to the tune to 0.5 percent of the total project cost should be earmarked to finance these technical institutes for conducting the social audit and for capacity building.

It was also suggested in the meeting that concerned Administrative Secretaries of the State involved in the implementation of infrastructure projects should randomly select 10% of the total number of projects being implemented by them. These 10% projects would be selected each from 3 slabs of project value i.e. 0-5 crore, 5-10 & 10-50 crore. It was also decided that for the projects with value more than Rs. 50 crores, the expert services of well-established public sector undertakings such as Engineers India Limited (EIL) of Govt of India would be hired as Project Management Consultants.

Chief Secretary has also issued directions to all the concerned departments to upload the entire information regarding the infrastructure projects on the official website clearly mentioning the scope of the projects, estimates, status, timeline etc. He also directed the departments to put sign boards at the sites of the projects indicating details of the project, contractor, timeline and the concerned supervisory officer along with the name and telephone number of the person to whom any complaint needs to be addressed by general public. Departments have also been asked to strengthen the citizen grievance mechanism to ensure the public participation in the overall development of the state.

Chief Secretary also directed to upgrade the Quality Manuals of the departments to ensure effective evaluation of the infrastructure projects of the state. He suggested the departments to take technical advice from top level experts of the given field.

While explaining the vision of the Chief Minister and Deputy Chief Minister in this regard to the officers, Chief Secretary emphasised to all officers that Techno-social audit would help to gauge the usefulness of the projects to the end users, rectify the deficiencies in implementation process and help in redesigning the objectives, focus and mode of implementation if necessary. He said that Techno- Social audit has become one of the most popular accountability tools used across the globe for better formulation, implementation and evaluation of various projects & schemes from social perspectives.

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SC COMMISSION SEEKS EARLY SETTLEMENT OF PENDING CASES OF SCs

· CALLS ON CHIEF SECRETARY

· CALLS FOR FORCEFUL IMPLEMENTATION OF POST

MATRIC SCHOLARSHIP SCHEME

CHANDIGARH AUGUST 20:

The Punjab State Commission for Scheduled Castes today had detailed deliberations with Chief Secretary Mr. Sarvesh Kaushal and impressed upon him for taking early steps to meet the pending issues of SC community.

Chairman of Punjab State Scheduled Caste Commission, Mr. Rajesh Bagha accompanied by Commission Member Mr. Parkash Singh Gardhi wala in the meeting with Mr. Kaushal also called for the forceful implementation of the ongoing Post Matric Scholarship Scheme meant for the meritorious children belonging to the under privileged community in the state. Emphasizing the need to monitor the scheme so that it could cater to the maximum number of the SC students, Mr. Bagha expressed apprehension that a few government and private institutions have been charging admission fee from the parents of the under privileged students whose income is less than Rs. 2 Lakh per annum. He also demanded a strict action against such institutions which were exploiting the scheduled castes students in the state.

The Chairman also said that the Punjab State Scheduled Caste Commission has always been guarding the interests of the under privileged and down trodden sections of the society. The main objective of the Commission is to identify the problems being faced by the members of this community besides focusing on the time bound redressal of their grievances.

The Chief Secretary assured the Commission of early steps to tackle the problems raised by them.

5 IPS AND 34 PPS OFFICERS TRANSFERRED

CHANDIGARH, AUGUST 19:

The Punjab Government has transferred 5 IPS and 34 PPS officers with immediate effect.

Disclosing this here today, an official spokesperson of the state government said that Mr. Patil Ketan Baliram, IPS has been transferred and posted as ADCP-2, Amritsar, Mr. Alka Meena, IPS as SP/NRI Wing, SAS Nagar, J. Elanchezhian, IPS as ADCP/Crime Jalandhar, Mr. Harjit Singh, IPS as SP Abohar and Nimbale Dharmendra Harshadra, IPS has been posted as ADCP/Traffic Amritsar.

The spokesperson while giving the detail about 34 PPS officers said that Mr. Naresh Kumar has been transferred and posted as AC, 2nd IRB Ladda Kothi Sangrur, Mr. Sheilendra Singh as AC, 5th IRB, Amritsar, Mr. Naresh Kumar as AC, PRTC Jahan Khelan, Mr. Jagjit Singh Saroya as SP (H) Kapurthala, Mr. Manohar Lal as AC, 7th IRB Kapurthala, Mr. Kehar Singh as AC, 3rd IRB Ludhiana, Mr. Paramjit Singh as ADCP-1 Jalandhar, Mr. Manjit Singh as AC, 2ng IRB Ladda Kothi Sangrur, Mr. Manjit Singh (TP 73) as ADCP/Traffic Ludhiana, Mr. Jasdev Singh as ADCP-2 Ludhiana, Mr. Harpreet Singh as ADCP-2 Jalandhar, Mr. Gurdeep Singh as AC, 3rd IRB Ludhiana, Mr. Jagmohan Singh as SP/SPU CM Security, Mr. Vipin Chadaury as SP.IT-2, Punjab, Chandigarh, Mr. Harwinder Singh as AC, 80th Bn. PAP Jalandhar, Mr. Sarabjit Singh as SP/IS SAS Nagar, Mr. Dilbag Singh Pannu as SP/Investigation SBS Nagar, Mr. Gagan Ajit Singh as SP (H) SBS Nagar, Mr. Rajinder Singh as SP Investigation Moga, Mr. Amrik Singh as SP (H) Moga, Mr. Parminder Singh as SP (H) Ropar, Mr. Darshan Singh Mann as AC, 6th IRB Ladda Kothi Sangrur, Mr. Baljit Singh as SP/Sec and Traffic Tarn taran, Mr. Amarpreet Singh as AIG/Intelligence Wing, Punjab, Mr. Amrik Singh Powar as AC, 4thCDO Bn. SAS Nagar, Mr. Bhupinder Singh as AC, 36th Bn. PAP Bahadurgarh (Patiala), Mr. Satinder Pal Singh as SP/Investigation Khanna, Mr. Rajwinder Singh as SP (H) Khanna, Mr. Bikramjeet Singh as SP/Investigation Faridkot, Mr. Balbir Singh as SP (H) Faridkot, Mr. Mukhwinder Singh as SP/Investigation Jalandhar Rural, Mr. Harkanwalpreet Singh as AC, 75th Bn. PAP, Jalandhar, Mr. Harmeet Singh as SP/Investigation and Mr. Gursewak Singh has been posted as SP/Investigation Kapurthala.

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35 TEACHERS FOUND ABSENT, 23 LONG TIME ABSENTEES, 51 LATE DETECTED IN SURPRISE CHECK IN 984 GOVERNMENT SCHOOLS

· EDUCATION DEPARTMENT WOULD CONTINUE SPECIAL AND SURPRISE CHECKS TO ENSURE PUNCTUALITY: DR. CHEEMA

CHANDIGARH, AUGUST 19:

On the directions of Dr. Daljit Singh Cheema, Education Minister Punjab, Special teams of the Education Department conducted surprise checks in 984 Schools of the State with the aim of ensuring punctuality and discipline in the State Government Schools. Three Circles namely Jalandhar, Faridkot and Nabha (Patiala) were visited by the special teams at the same time.

Divulging the details a spokesperson of the department said that during the special checking total 35 teachers were found absent while 51 teachers were late whereas 23 teachers were found long time absentees. He said that immediately after opening the schools special teams visited 396 schools of Jalandhar Circle, 328 schools of Nabha (Patiala) Circle and 260 schools of Faridkot Circle.

He further said that 16 teachers were found absent in Jalandhar Circle and 40 were late comers while 11 found long time absentee. In Nabha (Patiala) Circle 6 teachers were found absent, 9 late comers and 5 were long time absentee. Similarly, in Faridkot Circle 13 teachers were found absent, 2 late comers and 7 were found long time absentee.

Dr. Daljit Singh Cheema, Education Minister said that to maintain discipline and punctuality in the Government Schools special and surprise checking would continue in future also. He also directed to the senior officers that 100 percent attendance of the teachers would be ensured.

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PIYUSH GOYAL ANNOUNCES TO SET UP 2000 MW SOLAR POWER PROJECT IN PUNJAB

· ASKS REC AND PFC TO FUND SMART METER PROJECT AT A COST OF Rs. 400 CRORE

· CM SEEKS COVERAGE OF TOWNS HAVING POPULATION MORE THAN 15,000 UNDER R-APDRP

· STATE TO SOON SUBMIT PROPOSAL FOR ROOFTOP SOLAR PROJECT

· DEPUTY CM BATS FOR SOLAR PARKS COVERING AT LEAST 20 VILLAGES IN EACH BLOCK ACROSS THE STATE

· SEEKS COMPREHENSIVE POLICY FOR ALLOTMENT OF COAL FROM DOMESTIC SOURCES

· MAJITHIA DEMANDS EXEMPTION OF EXCISE & CUSTOMS DUTY OF TECHNOLOGY, UP-GRADATION/ RENOVATION OF EXISTING SOLAR PLANTS

· MOOTS A PROPOSAL TO SUBSIDIZE THE LED LIGHTING SYSTEM

CHANDIGARH, AUGUST 19:

Conceding the request of Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal to allot a mega solar power plant in Punjab, the Minister of State for Power, Coal and New & Renewable Energy Mr. Piyush Goyal today announced to set up 2000 MW solar power plant to further augment the power generation in the state.

This decision was taken by Mr. Goyal, who led a high-powered delegation here during a meeting with the Chief Minister accompanied by Deputy Chief Minister who holds the portfolio of power Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal and Non-Conventional Energy Minister Mr. Bikram Singh Majithia after marathon discussions to bring sweeping reforms in the state’s power sector besides further enhancing its power generation capacity.

While welcoming Union Power Minister, Mr. Badal highlighted the major achievements in power sector including 100% rural electrification way back in 1976 in the state. He said that against the total demand of nearly 8600 MW, the installed capacity was 6200 MW resulting in shortfall of 2500 MW. He said that three coal based power projects at Rajpura, Talwandi Sabo and Goindwal Sahib with a capacity of 2920 MW were started which improved the total capacity to 13600 MW in 2014 which was more than doubled what it was in 2007. The Chief Minister further said that nearly Rs.9200 crore was spent to strengthen the Transmission & Distribution System (T&D system) which had considerably reduced the T&D loses in Punjab and was now the lowest in the country.

Expressing gratitude to Mr. Goyal for accepting their majority of demands, the Chief Minister especially thanked him for providing coal linkage to GVK for six months and extending the time for R-APDRP project. He also urged Mr. Goyal to direct Central Coalfield Ltd. (CCL) to immediately supply committed quantity of 3.5 coal rakes per day during the paddy season. Likewise, he also impressed upon the Minister of Power to enhance the coal linkage for Rajpura and Talwandi Sabo power plants as their capacity had already been increased. He also demanded that Punjab should be given coal with low ash content as railway freight was 2.5 times the cost of coal which increased the cost of generation. The Chief Minister sought coverage of towns having population more than 15,000 under R-APDRP (Part-B) instead of towns with population of 30,000 under the scheme.

The Chief Minister also pleaded to restore the subsidy on the solar tubewells to 70% which had been recently slashed to 30% and asked the Central government to approve proposal for 10,000 tube-wells out of its recently announced program to install one lakh solar tubewells in the country. He also flagged up the issue for installing 100MW solar panels on rooftops for which for which the state government would soon submit a detailed proposal. He also sought Union Power Ministry’s intervention for the utilization of abundant land lying under the control of BBMB in Talwara Township and sought immediate action to transfer these large tracts of land to the state government so that they could be utilized optimally.

Taking part in the deliberations, the Deputy Chief Minister Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal assured Mr. Goyal that he would personally supervise the entire process to identify the requisite land for the installation of 2000 MW solar plant in the state. He said that it was a great initiative on the part of the Union government to help the state in augmenting its power generation in solar energy which was not only eco-friendly but also cost effective. He also thanked Mr. Goyal for acceding to the state government’s request to install smart meters over a period of next three years which would help the PSPCL to check the power pilferage and theft to great extent. He also suggested the Ministry of Power to allow the state government to purchase nearly 523 acres of abundant land in Talwara Township under the jurisdiction of BBMB either at collector rates or on the basis of lease for 99 years.

The Deputy Chief Minister also impressed on Mr. Goyal to develop solar parks covering at least 20 villages in each block across the state for providing assured irrigation facility to the farmers who were already grappling with acute problem of low ground level as the water table has been swiftly depleted over the past several years. He also sought low interest rate loans on the solar tube-wells to the individual farmers instead of providing them of subsidy and also sought Mr. Goyal’s personal intervention to include Punjab in the Green Corridor Project.

On the issue of Coal linkage the Deputy Chief Minister requested the Ministry of Coal to formulate a uniform policy to allocate 100% coal from domestic sources to landlocked states and used imported coal in coastal states to bring down the power tariffs in landlocked areas. He apprised the Power Minister that since Punjab was land locked and situated at the farthest end (1500 km) domestic sources of coal as well as sea coast besides exorbitant Inland freight for transportation, which was more than Rs. 2500 per ton.

Dwelling on the promotion of solar energy, Non-Conventional Energy Minister Mr. Bikram Singh Majithia demanded the funding of 10,000 solar pumps in agriculture sector through soft loans by Asian Development Bank (ADB) to the tune of Rs. 340 crore (57%) of the total cost of Rs. 600 crore, out of which the balance Rs. 180 crore would be met with existing MNRE subsidy of 30% and Rs. 80 crore as farmer share. He also pleaded for funding of 200 MW solar power plants to energize 30,000 agriculture pumps with viability gap funding through soft loan of by ADB. This project was valued at Rs. 1400 crore.

Seeking personal intervention of Mr. Goyal for the promotion of biomass generation plants in Punjab, Mr. Majithia demanded exemption of excise & customs duty of technology, up-gradation/ renovation of existing plants, grant of financial assistance to the tune of 50% of balers, raker and baler carrier for collection and transportation of bio-mass and to make available working capital at rate of interest at par with the agriculture sector i.e. 4% against the existing being charged from the biomass generators at 12-13%. Mr. Majithia also mooted a proposal to subsidize the LED lighting system to make it far more popular besides also supporting the Grid Interactive Rooftops Solar projects on houses either by giving soft loans or subsidy.

Winding up the discussions, the Union Power Minister highly complimented the Chief Minister and Deputy Chief Minister for bringing T&D losses at lowest in the country and said he would impress other states to replicate Punjab’s experience in this regard because to control T&D losses was far more a cogent factor than merely generating power. He assured Mr. Badal that out of the 2000 MW Solar Power generated in the state, 1000 MW would be purchased by the National Thermal Power Corporation (NTPC). He also promised that Mega Solar Project would soon become a reality in Punjab which would act as a catalyst to herald era of solar energy but at the same time he asked the state government to immediately identify the requisite land for this purpose. He also asked both the Rural Electrification Corporation (REC) and Power Finance Corporation (PFC) to jointly fund the project of installing smart meters in the state at a cost of Rs. 400 crore and the remaining Rs. 100 crore would be borne by state government. He also asked the state government to put up a comprehensive proposal to the Ministry for the usage of imported coal with low ash content instead of indigenous coal, which could also proved to be cost effective in view of its high quality. Mr. Goyal also appreciated the Deputy Chief Minister’s initiative to announce the waiver of excise and other charges on the generation of solar energy in order to promote it in a big way and thus would also motivate the other states in the country to follow the suit.

Prominent amongst others who were present in the meeting included Chief Secretary Mr. Sarvesh Kaushal, Principal Secretary to CM Mr. SK Sandhu, Secretary Power Mr. Anirudh Tiwari, Special Principal Secretary to CM Mr. Gaggandip Singh Brar, CMD PSPCL Mr. KD Chaudhary, CMD PSTCL Mr. Anurag Aggarwal.

The delegation accompanied with Mr. Goyal included GM REC Mr. Rakesh Sareen, Director Projects Mr. Dinesh Jha IAS, Chairman BBMB Mr. AB Aggarwal, Joint Secretary Power Jyoti Arora, Joint Secretary Coal AK Bhalla, CMD PFC Mr. MK Goel and Director (Mkt.) CIL Mr. BK Saxena.

--------------

Satvir Singh Atwal posted as ADCP- Ludhiana

Chandigarh, August 19:

Sh. Satvir Singh Atwal, PPS has been posted as ADCP-IV Ludhiana against vacant post.

A spokesperson of Punjab Govt. said that orders regarding this has been issued & would be applicable with immediate effect.

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VIGILANCE BUREAU, PUNJAB

VIGILANCE NABS MANAGER COOPERATIVE BANK ACCEPTING BRIBE OF RS ONE LAKH

· WAS DEMANDING BRIBE FOR SANCTIONING THE LOAN OF RS. 10 LAKH

CHANDIGARH, AUGUST 19:

The Vigilance Bureau has nabbed a Manager, Primary Cooperative Agriculture Development Bank with the bribe money of Rs one lakh.

Disclosing this here today an official spokesperson of the vigilance bureau said that Surinder Garg who was posted as Manager at Primary Cooperative Agriculture Devlopment Bank, Sherpur, District-Sangrur was nabbed by the team of vigilance bureau on the complaint of Mr Amarjit Singh of Village Sikander Pura, District Sangrur. In his Complaint Amarjit Singh said that he had applied for a loan of Rs. 10 lakh from Primary Cooperative Agriculture Development Bank, Sherpur, District Sangrur. He alleged that Surinder Garg Manager, was demanding bribe of Rs. One lakh from him, for sanctioning the loan.

The spokesperson further said that on the tip off trap was laid by the team of Vigilance Bureau, Flying Squad-1, Mohali headed by Sh. Hargobind Singh, SP, VB/FS-I, Mohali and accused Surinder Garg, Manager, Primary Cooperative Agriculture Devlopment Bank, Sherpur, District-Sangrur was arrested red handed while accepting bribe of Rs. One lakh from the complainant.

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PRE-MATURE RELEASE OF LIFE-CONVICTS AS PER ALREADY FRAMED POLICY-CLARIFIES GOVT. SPOKESPERSON

Chandigarh, August 19

Taking cognizance of the recent media reports about the pre-mature release of Gurmeet Singh alias Pinki by the Punjab Government, an official spokesperson has clarified that on pre-mature release of life-convicts, the State Government has already framed a policy on April 04, 2013.

According to the said policy, those male adults who were convicted for murder and have been given life-imprisonment as punishment, and have completed ten years of actual imprisonment, can apply for pre-mature release. On such application, recommendations of concerned Deputy Commissioner, Police Chief of the District and Gram Panchayat are sought and if the case is recommended, then it is further processed. If any such application by the concerned convict is found as per policy of pre-mature release, the same is recommended by Home (Jails) Department to Governor and once the approval of Governor is granted, on such approval any convict is released.

It is to be noted that if a convict has maintained good conduct during conviction period and works in open jail Nabha, that convict also gets benefits of one more year. In the case of Gurmeet Singh, convict, he completed more than 15 years of total conviction and more than 9 years of actual conviction. On his application, the case was duly recommended by Gram Panchayat, Distt. Police and Deputy Commissioner on 08-11-2013. After that this case was further recommended by ADGP (Jails) on 04-04-2014. Subsequently, this case was finally approved and orders were issued on 17-04-2014. Consequently, this convict was released after due process on 24-04-2014.

It would be pertinent to mention that since January 2014, 164 cases which were in accordance with the policy have been recommended for pre-mature release from Jail and out of them 91 convicts have already been released. The case of Convict Gurmeet Singh is covered in the policy and action in the case has been taken as per the policy, as in similarly placed other cases of pre-mature releases.

ECI RESTRICTS POLITICAL FUNCTIONARIES IN THE CONSTITUENCY AFTER CAMPAIGN PERIOD IS OVER

CHANDIGARH, AUGUST 16:

The Election Commission of India (ECI) has issued detailed set of instructions putting restrictions on the presence of political functionaries in Patiala and Talwandi Sabo assembly constituencies after the campaign period is over.

Disclosing this here today, Mr. V.K. Singh, Chief Electoral Officer, Punjab today said that civil and police administrations of both Patiala and Bathinda districts have been directed to ensure that all functionaries leave their constituency immediately after the campaign period is over. However, the elected MP of poll going assembly constituency should not be asked to leave their constituency during the election to legislative assembly, even if he/she is not an elector of the poll going constituency. However, such MP would not be allowed to carry out any campaign in the constituency after the campaign period is over, i.e. 48 hours before the time of close of poll.

CEO further said that under section 126 of the Representation of the People Act, 1951, after the closure of campaign period, no campaign can take place within the constituency, presence of political functionaries/party workers/procession functionaries/campaign functionaries etc., who have been brought from outside the constituency and who are not voters of the constituency, should not continue to remain present in the constituency as their continued presence after campaign ends may undermine the atmosphere for the free and fair poll.

He said that the election and police administrations have also been directed to check community halls etc., where such people are kept housed and find out whether the outsiders have been accommodated in these premises, to verify lodges and guesthouses to keep a track of the list of occupants, to set up check-posts in the constituencies’ borders and track the vehicular movement from outside the constituency and to verify the identity of the people/group of people in order to find out whether they are voters or not and establish their identity.

CM EXHORTS PEOPLE TO MAKE PUNJAB A VIBRANT AND PROGRESSIVE STATE OF COUNTRY

VOWS TO WIPE OUT SOCIAL MALADIES AND CURSE OF DRUGS FROM STATE

UNFURLS TRICOLOR FLAG AT STATE LEVEL 68th INDEPENDENCE DAY FUNCTION AT PATIALA

HONORS 16 EMINENT PERSONALITIES FROM DIFFERENT WALKS OF LIFE

Patiala, August 16-

Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today called upon the people to take a solemn pledge on this historic day to make Punjab a vibrant and progressive state in the country, free from the maladies of unemployment, poverty and illiteracy besides the curse of drugs, to cherish the aspirations of our countless patriots and freedom fighters who made supreme sacrifices to free our motherland from the yoke of British imperialism.

Addressing the mammoth gathering after unfurling the National Flag at the state level function to mark 68th Independence Day here at Yadwindra School Ground, the Chief Minister said that on this auspicious day, India became a sovereign and democratic nation after emancipation from the clutches of British rule adding that every year this august day was celebrated with great enthusiasm and gaiety. Recalling the unparalleled and unique sacrifices made by Punjabis in the national freedom struggle, he mentioned that 80% sacrifices had been made by Punjabis alone at the altar of their motherland despite the fact they merely constituted two percent of country’s population. Mr. Badal further said that it was also a matter of sheer pride and honor for us that all the watershed movements associated with the country’s freedom struggle like Kuka, Ghadar, Kamagata Maru, Agrarian, Gurdwara Reforms and Babbar Akali were spear headed by the brave Punjabis from this sacred land.

The Chief Minister said that the rich legacy of unprecedented sacrifices made by martyrs would ever act as a light house to guide the destiny of our future generations. He said that the first Indian to lay down his life to free our country was also a Punjabi - Bhai Maharaj Singh and then followed a long string embedded with heroic gems like Baba Ram Singh, Shaheed Bhagat Singh, Rajguru, Sukhdev, Lala Lajpat Rai, Shaheed Udham Singh, Kartar Singh Sarabha, Diwan Singh Kalepani and several others who shed every drop of their blood to achieve the ultimate goal of Independence. Mr. Badal said that the valiant Punjabis had inherited the spirit of self sacrifice and patriotism from Sri Guru Nanak Dev ji, Sri Guru Arjun Dev ji, Sri Guru Teg Bahadur ji and Sri Guru Gobind Singh ji, who had waged a relentless battle against injustice, tyranny and oppression to safeguard the human rights of the innocent and helpless people.

Reiterating the firm commitment of state government to perpetuate the rich legacy of Punjabis in the national freedom struggle, the Chief Minister said that the state government was constructing a world class ‘Jang-e-Azaadi’ memorial near Jalandhar at a cost of Rs 200 crore to show case their unparalleled contribution. Likewise, Mr. Badal said that state-of-the-art War Heroes' Memorial cum Museum was being constructed at Amritsar over seven acres of land on the Amritsar-Attari Road, to recognize and showcase the supreme sacrifices made by the Punjabi soldiers while serving in the Armed forces thereby upholding their supreme gallantry values.

However, the Chief Minister said that even when the rest of the country was celebrating Independence, Punjab was grappled with another life and death struggle in the wake of partition of the country in which millions of Punjabis were uprooted, lost their lives and several others were deprived of their valuable land and property and were rendered homeless.

The Chief Minister said that even this did not deter the Punjabis from serving their motherland and later the Punjabis led the nation from the front in all the wars thrust upon this country. He said that whenever India faced any challenge from internal or external aggression, the brave Punjabis have always safeguarded the integrity and honor of the country from the forefront. Mr. Badal said that exemplary and pro-active role of Punjabi soldiers in Indo-Pak wars in 1965 and 1971 besides hostilities in Kargil, counter insurgency operations in Kashmir and other parts of India would ever be remembered by one and all and continue to inspire the future generations to imbibe a sense of patriotism and nationalism.

The Chief Minister further said that it was a well known fact that the hard working and resilient farmers of the state had played a crucial role in making the country self reliant in the food production. He said that the hard working farmers of Punjab had exploited the only available natural resources of the state in terms of fertile soil and water to feed the nation, a tradition which has been successfully carried from 1960s till now. Mr. Badal said that despite of the vagaries of weather the contribution of the state in national food pool has always been on the top.

On the solemn occasion, the Chief Minister exhorted the people to rededicate themselves to make Punjab an ideal state, which was free from the social maladies like poverty, illiteracy, corruption and others besides renewing our pledge to eradicate the menace of drugs from the state. He said that the state government was continuing its battle against social evils and have demonstrated our firm commitment to make Punjab a healthy and drug Free State adding that this was making encouraging progress with total support and cooperation of the residents of state. Mr. Badal said that a progressive, healthy and drug free Punjab would certainly be an outcome of people’s active participation coupled with their unflinching trust in the state administration.

Complimenting the valiant Punjabis across the state for maintaining peace and communal harmony despite its geographical boundaries in close proximity with Indo-Pak border on one side and Jammu & Kashmir on the other where, violent activities were the order of the day, the Chief Minister said that Punjab was the most peaceful state in the country where the peace loving people always strongly believed in the ethos of brotherhood, amity and national integration.

Earlier, the Chief Minister, accompanied by DGP Mr. Sumedh Saini and Deputy Commissioner Mr. Varun Roojam, inspected the parade led by Parade Commander DSP Mr. Akashdeep Singh Aulakh and Assistant Parade Commander DSP Mr. Jaskirat Singh Ahir and took a salute during an impressive march past by the contingents of ITBP, Punjab Armed Police, Punjab Home Guards, NCC Cadets besides the Punjab Police band. A colorful variety program including Bhangra, Gidha and group dance presented by the students of various local schools and colleges regaled the audience. Motor Cycle show by the brave hearts of Punjab Police and Horse Riding especially the tent pegging was a main star attraction.

On the occasion, the Chief Minister honored the freedom fighters and their next of kin, in recognition to their enormous contribution in the country’s freedom struggle, with a shawl.

During the function, the Chief Minister also honored 16 eminent personalities from different walks of life for making outstanding contribution in different fields with a citation, medal and cash award of Rs 11000. The recipients of the state awards included Professor of Psychiatry PGI Dr. Ajit Kumar Awasthi, Mr. Surinder Kochar, Mr. Sanjiv Nagpal, Mr. Surinder Kumar Ahuja, Mr. Shivkaran Singh, Mr. Sukhdev Singh, former Director PGI and Advisor to Government of Punjab Dr. KK Talwar, Chairman Punjab State Farmer’ Commission Dr. GS Kalkatt, former Director PGI Dr. Jaswant Singh Neki, Mr. Devinder Singh, Associate Professor of Psychiatry PGI Dr. D Basu, Dr PS Bakshi, Mr. Bhagwant Singh, Director Tata Memorial Center Dr. RA Badve, Mr. Rajpal Singh Gandhi and Mr. Ranjeet Singh.

The Chief Minister also honored Mrs. Tejinder Kaur, the widow Patiala Central Jail’s Warden constable Raghuvir Singh, with gallantry award, who was killed while performing his duty.

Apart from this, the Chief Minister also honored seven Police officers/ officials with Community Policing Awards for rendering superb services. The recipients of this award included DGP Mr. SK Sharma, IGP Mr. Ishwar Singh, DIG Mr. SK Verma, Inspector Mr. Paramveer Singh, ASI Mr. Darbara Singh, Head Constable Mr. Bal Krishan and Constable Ms. Sukhminder Kaur.

The Chief Minister was accompanied by his Principal Secretary Mr. SK Sandhu and Commissioner Patiala Division Mr. Ajit Singh Pannu.

The function was enthusiastically attended by the senior officers of district civil and police administration besides prominent personalities from different walks of the life.

CM PAYS RICH TRIBUTES TO SHAHEED KARNAIL SINGH ISSRU AND SHAHEED BHUPINDER SINGH ISSRU ON THEIR MARTYRDOM DAY

CM CALLS UPON THE PEOPLE TO WORK IN UNISON WITH THE STATE GOVERNMENT FOR STRENGTHENING PUNJAB AND IT’S SPIRIT OF COMMUNAL HARMONY

ISSRU LUDHIANA, AUGUST 16 :-

Punjab Chief Minister Mr.Parkash Singh Badal today called upon the people of Punjab to work in accordance with the State government and play a proactive role in strengthening the Punjab’s spirit of communal harmony and progress to teach an appropriate lesson to all the anti-Punjab forces deliberately trying to disrupt the Unity, peace and progress in the state.

The Chief Minister was addressing the mammoth gathering here today during a state level function organised to commemorate the Martyrdom Day of Shaheed Master Karnail Singh Issru, the first Punjabi Martyr of ‘Goa Liberation Movement’ and Shaheed Bhupinder Singh Issru, who had sacrificed his life for the welfare of the peasantry.

Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Badal categorically said that be it the Pre-independence era or the post-independence, the Punjab had always strived hard to protect the honour and dignity of India at all fronts, but unfortunately certain anti-Punjab forces had always tried to defame its glory by creating misconceptions about the peace loving and brave Punjabis. Talking about the patriotic spirit of Punjab, Mr. Badal said that every body was fully familiar with the fact that 80% sacrifices had been made by the Punjabis during the National Independence struggle but even after 67 years of Independence the dreams of our martyrs to set up a healthy society, free from all ailments like poverty, unemployment, illiteracy etc. were yet to be realised. Although for the welfare of the state and its people the state government had worked relentlessly with dedication and devotion and achieved many goals in the fields of Education, Health care, Infrastructure but still lot of efforts were yet to be down.

Expressing a great hope with the change of guard at the centre, he said that under the dynamic and visionary leadership of Prime Minister Mr. Narendra Modi, the country in journal and Punjab in particular would soon begin its new journey on the path of progress and development by overcoming all the hurdles to reach at the top of its glory.

Mr. Badal said that to inspire our future generations and inculcate the values of patriotism and nationalism in them, their government had initiated an ambitious programme to construct a world class Jang-e-Azadi Memorial over an area of 25 acre at a cost of Rs.200 crore at Kartarpur near Jalandhar, which would demonstrate the rich legacy and enormous contribution of Punjabis in the Indian freedom struggle.

Paying homage to the great martyrs, Senior SAD Leader and Former Minister Mr. Mahesh Inder Singh Grewal, said that under the dynamic leadership of Mr. Parkash Singh Badal and Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal the state government was fully committed to bring multifaceted development in the state to re-establish Punjab as a front runner state of the country. On behalf of the people of the state, he also expressed gratitude to the Chief Minister for his special concern and efforts to ensure peace and development in the state.

Earlier, Mr. Badal along with other senior leaders paid floral tributes at the statue of Shaheed Karnail Singh Issru.

Prominent amongst who spoke on this occasion included, Speaker Punjab Vidhan Sabha Mr. Charanjit Singh Atwal, Senior Akali Leader and Former Union Minister Mr. Balwant Singh Ramoowalia, Area In-charge SAD Khana Ranjit Singh Talwandi, Jathedar Santa Singh Umedpur, President SAD Youth Wing Ludhiana Rural Mr. Yadwinder Singh Yadoo and District President BJP Ludhiana Rural Mr. Bikram Singh Cheema besides other senior leaders of SAD and BJP.

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Sukhbir lauds Punjab’s contribution in freedom struggle

• Urges people to participate in country and State's development

• Also exhorts people to eliminate social evils

• Hoists tricolour at multipurpose sports stadium bathinda on 68th
independence day

Bathinda, August 16: Punjab Deputy Chief Minister Mr. Sukhbir Singh
Badal today lauded the immense contribution of freedom fighters and
great martyrs of the State and said their sacrifices had laid the
foundation for a free India.

Extending his heartfelt greetings to Punjabis after unfurling the
national flag here at multipurpose sports stadium, Mr. Badal in his
address said that despite having a small mass base, Punjabis were in
the forefront of the freedom struggle with nearly 80 per cent of the
martyrs being from this State.

He said Punjab had also played the leading role in making the country
self reliant by ushering in an era of food security through the green
revolution. He said the State still contributed as much as 65 per cent
of the food grains for the national pool.

Giving a clarion call to countrymen for healthy participation in
country as well as State's development, Mr. Badal said we all should
become active partners in the development process. He said the day
was not far when India would be amongst the most developed
countries in the world since it was leading in IT, Education, Health,
Agriculture and Industry sectors.

The Deputy CM also sought the cooperation from people to eliminate
social evils especially drugs and said the joint efforts of government
and common masses could fetch good results in drive against drugs.

He said Punjab was being used by peddlers as transit route from
Afghanistan and Pakistan but the State was working day and night to
plug all the channels to stop the inflow of drugs to Punjab.

Concluding his speech Mr. Badal exhorted Punjabis in general and the
youth in particular to follow the path shown by our martyrs
Shaheed-E-Azam Bhagat Singh, Rajguru, Sukhdev, Kartar Singh Sarabha,
Madan Lal Dhingra, Lala Lajpa Rai, Shaheed Udham Singh.

Mr. Badal also honoured family members of Kargil War Heroes and kin
of freedom fighters besides distributing appreciation letters to 77
persons from various fields for their distinguish services. Mr. Badal
also gave away tri-cycles and sewing machines to physically challenged
and needy women respectively. He also presented mementoes to
participating teams of various activities besides platoons of march-past.

Meanwhile Deputy CM also announced Rs. 5 lakh for Mahant Gurbanta Dass
School for deaf and dumb from his discretionary fund besides
announcing holiday in schools of Bathinda district on August 16.

Prominent amongst those present on the occasion included Chief
Parliamentary Secretary Mr. Sarup Chand Singla, Assistant Media
Advisor to Deputy CM Mr. Harjinder Singh Sidhu, Deputy Commissioner
Dr. Basant Garg and SSP Gurpreet Singh Bhullar. EOM

MAJITHIA UNDERLINES THE NEED FOR MORE CONCERTED EFFORTS TO REALIZE THE DREAMS OF MARTYRS

v UNFURLS NATIONAL FLAG IN SAS NAGAR

v UNIQUE GOVERNANCE REFORMS MADE PUNJAB MOST FAVORITE DESTINATION FOR INVESTMENT

v PUNJAB ALL SET TO SET UP 100 ACRES MEGA FOOD PARK IN LADHOWAL

v SETTING UP OF 200 MW SOLAR POWER PROJECTS OR WORTH RS. 2000 CRORE

v PUNJAB TO SPENT RS. 7500 CRORE FOR PROVIDING 100 PERCENT CIVIC AMENITIES

v SETTING UP OF INFOSYS CAMPUS IN SAS NAGAR TO GENERATE 25,000 JOBS

SAS Nagar, August 16:

Punjab Revenue, Public Relations & Non Conventional Energy Minister Mr. Bikram Singh Majithia today underlined the need for more concerted efforts to realize the dreams of overall development our great martyrs and freedom fighters who made selfless sacrifices to get our motherland free from British regime.

Addressing an impressive gathering after unfurling the National Flag on the occasion of 68th Independence Day function, Mr. Majithia said that it was also an occasion to pay tributes to all those brave Punjabis, who made countless sacrifices in nation’s freedom struggle. He said that it was a matter of proud that despite just two percent population, the brave Punjabis made more than 80 percent sacrifices in the nation’s freedom struggle. He said that we should also remember with gratitude, the selfless service rendered by the personnel of our Army, Para-military forces and state police forces who guard our frontiers to keep intact the hard earned freedom of the country besides maintaining law & order at every cost.

Mr. Majithia pointed out that the SAD-BJP government laid the foundation of a progressive Punjab by launching a sustained campaign to strengthen infrastructure, to improve interaction of public with government by launching Governance Reforms and making Punjab first power surplus state of the country and it has fulfilled its promise by making it power surplus in the year 2014.

He said that with unique governance reforms, Punjab has emerged as most favorite destination for investment in the country. Our government had organized Progressive Punjab Investor Summit here at the Indian School of Business, which has attracted investment of about Rs.65,000 crore in textiles and engineering, information technology, agro and food processing, tourism, health, bio-sciences, infrastructure sectors having potential of generation of 3 lac jobs. He said that Rs. 21,500 crore Bathinda refinery has been providing direct/indirect employment to 1 lac people. He said that SAS Nagar International Airport was all set to start international flights by the end of current year.

The Minister further informed that an IT City was being developed in 1700 acres, where 20 top IT companies have been allotted land to set up their premises and Infosys has already started setting up of its campus in 50 acres having potential of 25000 jobs. He said that Punjab was all set to have a 100 acres multi product mega food park at Ladhowal. Besides this, a Rs. 150 crore Footwear Design & Development Institute (FDDI) was being set up at Banur, District SAS Nagar (Mohali) and the state government has provided 8 acres of land free of cost for establishment of this institute, he added. He said that Rs. 50 crore Air Conditioned Fruit & Vegetable Mandi has been set up in SAS Nagar by Punjab Mandi Board.

He said that when the SAD-BJP government took over in 2007 , the power generation of state was just 6200 MW and now by the end of current year it would touch 14,428 MW . Besides this, major initiatives have been taken in renewable energy sector as 200 MW Solar Power projects were being set up at the cost of Rs. 2000 crore.

The Minister said that the State Government was committed to provide 100% civic amenities in the urban areas of Punjab and was currently executing works like Water Supply, Sewerage, Sewerage Treatment Plants, Street lights, Solid Waste Management, Roads & Flyovers, Parks and parking spaces, to the extent of Rs.3,800 Crore and we have targeted to provide 100% requirement of these basic amenities to the extent of Rs.7, 500 Crores in next three years. Besides this, the rural areas would also be provided civic amenities on urban pattern.

The Minister informed that Our government was developing a New Chandigarh on an area of approximately 15,000 acres on the concept of smart city in the foot hills of Shiwaliks it would have a unique and world class medical and educational infrastructure. Rs. 700 crore Medicity was being developed at 250 acre land and will comprise of world class multi-specialty hospitals along with medical colleges and medical research institutes. 50 acres of land has already been allotted to Homi Bhabha Cancer Hospital and Research Centre under the Department of Atomic Energy, Govt. of India. Besides this, a Rs. 4000 crore education city was being planned on an area of approximately 1600 acre and it would have educational facilities of international standards from basic schooling to research level including branch campuses of leading international universities. He further said that setting up of 114 Suwidha Kendras (36 services), 163 Computerized Fard Kendras (providing fards in just 15 minutes) and 146 Saanjh Kendras delivering 25 services has changed the public perception about the functioning of various key departments extending valuable services in the state.

Earlier, Mr. Majithia after inspecting the parade took salute from an impressive march past comprising of contingents of Punjab Police, Traffic Police, lady police, NCC and Scouts and guides. On this occasion, a colorful variety programme was also presented by students of various schools and colleges. The Minister disbursed tri-cycles to 8 physically challenged persons and 15 sewing machines to needy women. He also honoured Mr. Vijay Sethi @ Sonu Zirakpur, Mr. Shamsher Singh & Mrs. Rajinder Kaur ( Prabh Asra Kendra, Padiala), Mohali Industries Association President Mr.Gurkirpal Singh and Gram Panchayat of Raipur Dau. He also gave Rs. 2 lac for participating students besides announcing tomorrow’s holiday in schools. Prominent amongst others who were present on the occasion included , Ex Minister S. Balwant Singh Ramoowalia, Chairperson District Planing Committee Bibi Amanjot Kaur Ramoowalia, Chairperson Zila Prishad Bibi Parmjeet Kaur Badali,D.I.G Sh. R.K. Jaiswal, Deputy Commissioner Sh. Tejinderpal Singh Sidhu, Mr. Inder Mohan Singh Bhatti SSP .Mr. Harsukhinder Singh Bubbi Badal.

IAS OFFICERS' ASSOCIATION CONDEMNS ISSRU INCIDENT

CHANDIGARH, AUGUST 16:

Suresh Kumar, IAS, President,

The Punjab State IAS Officers Association

The Punjab State IAS Officers' Association strongly condemns the incident at Issru yesterday. Such a shameful act against a Chief Minister deserves to be condemned in entirety and should invite strictest of penal action. The Association reiterates its resolve to work for the welfare of the State & its Citizens and requests the citizenry to refrain from such acts which serve no useful purpose at all other than temporary media glare.

CM EXHORTS PEOPLE TO MAKE PUNJAB A VIBRANT AND PROGRESSIVE STATE OF COUNTRY

VOWS TO WIPE OUT SOCIAL MALADIES AND CURSE OF DRUGS FROM STATE

UNFURLS TRICOLOR FLAG AT STATE LEVEL 68th INDEPENDENCE DAY FUNCTION AT PATIALA

HONORS 16 EMINENT PERSONALITIES FROM DIFFERENT WALKS OF LIFE

Patiala, August 15-

On the occasion, the Chief Minister honored the freedom fighters and their next of kin, in recognition to their enormous contribution in the country’s freedom struggle, with a shawl.

The Chief Minister also honored Mrs. Tejinder Kaur, the widow Patiala Central Jail’s Warden constable Raghuvir Singh, with gallantry award, who was killed while performing his duty.

The Chief Minister was accompanied by his Principal Secretary Mr. SK Sandhu and Commissioner Patiala Division Mr. Ajit Singh Pannu.

The function was enthusiastically attended by the senior officers of district civil and police administration besides prominent personalities from different walks of the life.

Sukhbir lauds Punjab’s contribution in freedom struggle

• Urges people to participate in country and State's development

• Also exhorts people to eliminate social evils

• Hoists tricolour at multipurpose sports stadium bathinda on 68th
independence day

Bathinda, August 15: Punjab Deputy Chief Minister Mr. Sukhbir Singh
Badal today lauded the immense contribution of freedom fighters and
great martyrs of the State and said their sacrifices had laid the
foundation for a free India.

Extending his heartfelt greetings to Punjabis after unfurling the
national flag here at multipurpose sports stadium, Mr. Badal in his
address said that despite having a small mass base, Punjabis were in
the forefront of the freedom struggle with nearly 80 per cent of the
martyrs being from this State.

He said Punjab had also played the leading role in making the country
self reliant by ushering in an era of food security through the green
revolution. He said the State still contributed as much as 65 per cent
of the food grains for the national pool.

Giving a clarion call to countrymen for healthy participation in
country as well as State's development, Mr. Badal said we all should
become active partners in the development process. He said the day
was not far when India would be amongst the most developed
countries in the world since it was leading in IT, Education, Health,
Agriculture and Industry sectors.

The Deputy CM also sought the cooperation from people to eliminate
social evils especially drugs and said the joint efforts of government
and common masses could fetch good results in drive against drugs.

He said Punjab was being used by peddlers as transit route from
Afghanistan and Pakistan but the State was working day and night to
plug all the channels to stop the inflow of drugs to Punjab.

Concluding his speech Mr. Badal exhorted Punjabis in general and the
youth in particular to follow the path shown by our martyrs
Shaheed-E-Azam Bhagat Singh, Rajguru, Sukhdev, Kartar Singh Sarabha,
Madan Lal Dhingra, Lala Lajpa Rai, Shaheed Udham Singh.

Mr. Badal also honoured family members of Kargil War Heroes and kin
of freedom fighters besides distributing appreciation letters to 77
persons from various fields for their distinguish services. Mr. Badal
also gave away tri-cycles and sewing machines to physically challenged
and needy women respectively. He also presented mementoes to
participating teams of various activities besides platoons of march-past.

Meanwhile Deputy CM also announced Rs. 5 lakh for Mahant Gurbanta Dass
School for deaf and dumb from his discretionary fund besides
announcing holiday in schools of Bathinda district on August 16.

Prominent amongst those present on the occasion included Chief
Parliamentary Secretary Mr. Sarup Chand Singla, Assistant Media
Advisor to Deputy CM Mr. Harjinder Singh Sidhu, Deputy Commissioner
Dr. Basant Garg and SSP Gurpreet Singh Bhullar. EOM

MAJITHIA UNDERLINES THE NEED FOR MORE CONCERTED EFFORTS TO REALIZE THE DREAMS OF MARTYRS

v UNFURLS NATIONAL FLAG IN SAS NAGAR

v UNIQUE GOVERNANCE REFORMS MADE PUNJAB MOST FAVORITE DESTINATION FOR INVESTMENT

v PUNJAB ALL SET TO SET UP 100 ACRES MEGA FOOD PARK IN LADHOWAL

v SETTING UP OF 200 MW SOLAR POWER PROJECTS OR WORTH RS. 2000 CRORE

v PUNJAB TO SPENT RS. 7500 CRORE FOR PROVIDING 100 PERCENT CIVIC AMENITIES

v SETTING UP OF INFOSYS CAMPUS IN SAS NAGAR TO GENERATE 25,000 JOBS

SAS Nagar, August 15:

CLEARANCE OF 'DOPE TEST' TO BE MANDATORY FOR EVERY ASPIRANT JOINING STATE GOVERNMENT SERVICES

CM ASKS OFFICERS TO INCORPORATE NECESSARY PROVISIONS IN THE EXISTING SERVICE RULES

MOVE AIMED AT DEBARRING DRUG ADDICTS IN STATE GOVERNMENT SERVICES

BADAL ASKS DIVISIONAL COMMISSIONERS TO REGULARLY MONITOR THE WORKING OF DRUG DE-ADDICTION CENTERS FALLING IN THEIR JURISDICTION

BATS FOR CENTRALIZED DATABASE FOR DRUG ADDICTS UNDERGOING TREATMENT AT DRUG DE-ADDICTION CENTERS

REVIEWS THE PROGRESS OF DRUG DE-ADDICTION CENTERS

Chandigarh, August 14-

In a significant move aimed at checking the entry of drug addicts in the state government services, the Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today gave his nod for making the clearance of 'Dope Test' mandatory during the recruitment process in all departments of the state government.

A decision to this effect was taken by the Chief Minister, while presiding over a high level meeting to review the arrangements for Drug de-addiction and Rehabilitation of drug addicts in the state, here at CMO, this morning.

Taking part in deliberations, the Chief Minister said that the necessary amendments must be made in the existing rules to incorporate necessary provisions in them for ensuring that any person selected for the government service must clear the 'Dope Test' during his Medical test. He said that if the report of 'Dope Test' of any aspirant was found negative then he/ she must be debarred from joining the government service. Mr. Badal said that this would not only encourage the youth to shun away the menace of drugs but it would also ensure that Healthy officers/ officials join the service in the future. "This is the need of the hour so as to combat the menace of drugs in a more effective manner" he added.

Dwelling on another issue, the Chief Minister also asked the Divisional Commissioners present in the meeting to personally visit the Drug de-addiction centers falling in their jurisdiction to have first hand information about the working of these centers. He said that effective monitoring of these centers was very important so that drug addicts could be imparted quality treatment and diagnostic facilities. Mr. Badal asked the officers to ensure that rather than being a mere formality these meetings should be result oriented.

The Chief Minister also asked the officers to appoint a Nodal Officer to monitor the day-to-day functioning of these centers besides maintaining proper record for this. He said that this officer must compile the weekly report regarding the working of these centers and submit it to the officers of the state government at Chandigarh.

Dwelling on another issue, the Chief Minister also asked the officers of the state government to explore the feasibility of maintaining a centralized database of the all the drug de-addiction centers so as to check the misuse of medicines by the drug addicts. He said that the Drug addicts undergoing treatment at these centers must be issued identity proofs so as to ensure that they could not avail the medical treatment from more than one center.

The Chief Minister also asked his Technical Advisor Lieutenant General (Retd.) BS Dhaliwal to negotiate the terms and conditions with the NBCC to construct the Rehabilitation Centers at the earliest so that drug addicts could be brought back into the mainstream.

During the meeting the Chief Minister was apprised that 50 bedded Drug de-addiction centers at Patiala, Jalandhar and Bathinda would be made operational by the end of this year. Likewise, he was also informed that the process of recruiting the staff from Drug de-addiction centers across the state would be completed by end of this month. Mr. Badal was also informed that that the Drug de-addiction drive was getting a positive response from the people as OPD in the drug de-addiction centers across the state have crossed two lakh.

Taking part in deliberations Dr. Ajit Awasthi hailed the Chief Minister for taking unprecedented steps to check Drug addiction in the state. He said that due to the personal initiatives of Mr. Badal the state government has been able to channelize its resources well in time to check the curse of drugs. Dr. Awasthi even said that the massive infra structure roped in by the state government was many times more than the other states and even the western countries that were confronting the same problem.

Prominent amongst those present in the meeting included Cabinet Ministers Mr. Parminder Singh Dhindsa and Mr. Surjit Kumar Jiyani, Technical Advisor to Chief Minister Lieutenant General (Retd.) BS Dhaliwal, Chief Secretary Mr. Sarvesh Kaushal, Principal Secretary to Chief Minister Mr. SK Sandhu, Principal Secretary Health Mrs. Vinnie Mahajan, Secretary Home Mr. Jagpal Singh Sandhu, Special Principal Secretaries to Chief Minister Mr. KJS Cheema and Dr. S Karunaraju, Principal Secretary Jails Mr. Sanjay Kumar, Commissioners of Jalandhar, Patiala and Ferozepur Divisions Mr. R Venkatratnam, Mr. Ajit Singh Pannu and Mr. VK Sharma respectively, Special Secretary Health Mr. Vikas Garg, Director Health Dr. Ramanjeet Singh and Chief Architect Ms. Swapna.

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ARMY TO SET UP DRUG DE-ADDICTION CENTERS IN AMRITSAR, GURDASPUR, FEROZEPUR AND JALANDHAR

CM ASSURES FULSOME SUPPORT AND COOPERATION TO ARMY FOR THIS PHILANTHROPIC CAUSE

LAYS STRESS ON DEVELOPMENT OF CORE SECTORS OF HEALTH AND EDUCATION

COMMANDING-IN-CHIEF WESTERN COMMAND CALLS ON BADAL

Chandigarh, August 14-

Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today offered fulsome support and cooperation to the Army for the setting up of Drug de-addiction centers in the border districts of Amritsar, Gurdaspur, Ferozepur besides at Jalandhar.

An assurance to this effect was given by the Chief Minister to the General Officer in Commanding-in-Chief Western Command Lieutenant General KJ Singh, AVSM, who called on him at his residence this afternoon.

The Chief Minister assured of all possible help for this philanthropic cause and asked the Army Officer and state government officers to jointly work out the modalities for the establishment of such centers. He also offered to allot land free of cost to the Army authorities for these Drug de-addiction centers to be manned by them. Likewise, Mr. Badal also impressed upon the top officer of Western Command to work out a plan for a big project for the development of Border areas jointly with the state government in core sectors of Health and Education, which were currently in a state of sheer neglect due to apathetic attitude of the previous Union government towards this genuine cause.

The Chief Minister said that since Army had vast experience and expertise to handle such projects efficiently that's why he was insisting to optimally utilise their potential for the successful implementation of these schemes. He also narrated his success story of roping in the services of top Army brass in efficaciously running the Maharaja Ranjit Singh Armed Forces Preparatory Academy at Mohali, rejuvenation of prestigious Dashmesh Academy at Sri Anandpur Sahib, bringing transparency in the Punjab Public Service Commission and recently handing over the prestigious projects of special schools to a senior most Army officer at the helm of affairs.

Responding to the proposals put forth by the Chief Minister for setting up of Drug de-addiction centers and a prestigious project in border area aimed at providing the best Health and Education facilities, Lieutenant General KJ Singh welcomed this initiative adding he said the Army would leave no stone unturned in realising these dream projects of Chief Minister into reality. He said both these projects could be aptly implemented with mutual participation of Army and state government.

Expressing gratitude to the Chief Minister for extending all possible support and cooperation to the Armed Forces, Lieutenant General KJ Singh said that the Punjab Model was best in the country for successfully managing the affairs of PESCO besides safeguarding the interest of ex-servicemen, with perceptible large concentration in the state. He also lauded the state government's unique initiative for building state-of-the Art war museum at Amritsar-Attari road to showcase the gallantry deeds of Army officers and soldiers. Lieutenant General KJ Singh also appreciated Chief Minister's vision for the upcoming Armed Forces Preparatory Academy for Girls at Mohali after beaming success of similar institute for boys, to maintain state's enviable position in the Armed services since time immemorial, which had gradually declined over the past several years.

The Chief Minister was accompanied by his Special Principal Secretaries Mr. KJS Cheema and Dr. S Karunraju and CMD PESCO Lieutenant General (Retd.) Kuldeep Singh.

DOORDARSHAN AND AIR TO BROADCAST PUNJAB CM MESSAGE ON INDEPENDENCE DAY

CHANDIGARH AUGUST 14:

Doordarshan Kendra Jalandhar, Chandigarh and DD Punjabi would telecast the message of the Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal on the occasion of Independence Day tomorrow (Friday) at 8.30 AM.

Meanwhile, the All India Radio Jalandhar, Patiala and Bathinda FM Stations besides DTH AIR Punjabi would broadcast the Chief Minister’s message tomorrow at 9.10 AM.

PUNJAB GRANTS ONE TIME REMISSION OF SENTENCE TO PRISONERS ON INDEPENDENCE DAY: THANDAL

· NOTIFICATION ISSUED, PRISONER WOULD BE GRANTED REMISSION OF SENTENCE RANGING FROM 1 MONTH TO 1 YEAR VIS A VIS PERIOD OF SENTENCE AND CATEGORY OF CRIME

CHANDIGARH, AUGUST 14:

The Punjab Government has decided to accord one time remission of sentence to the convicts lodged in different jails of the state and undergoing sentence of imprisonment up to 20 years on the occasion of Independence Day, 2014.

Disclosing this here today Mr. Sohan Singh Thandal, Jail Minister, Punjab said that the prisoners who are undergoing sentence of imprisonment for more than 10 years and up to 20 have been granted one time remission of sentence for 1 year. Similarly prisoners undergoing sentence of more than 7 year and up to 10 years would get 9 months whereas prisoners undergoing sentence of more than 5 year and up to 7 years would get 6 months. Similarly, prisoners undergoing sentence of more than 3 years and up to 5 years would get 3 months and prisoners undergoing sentence below 3 year have been granted one remission of sentence for 1 month. The Punjab Jail Minister said that only those prisoners have been granted one time remission of sentence, who are confined in jails on 15th August 2014.

Mr. Thandal further said that where a person has been sentenced to imprisonment for a period of ten years or for a period exceeding 5 years but not exceeding 10 years, the conduct of the person for the last five would also be taken into consideration before granting him the remission of sentence. He said that if a person is on parole or furlough, the remission would be granted to him only, if he surrenders himself in the jail before the expiry of period of parole of furlough.

The Minister said that no remission would be granted to a person who has been convicted for a serious offence and the cases being investigated by CBI. He said that various kind of conditions have been imposed for granting one time remission of sentence to the prisoners with regard to the nature of the crime committed by them. He said that all these conditions have been clarified in the notification issued by the Department of Home (Jails) Jail Branch, Punjab Government on 13 August, 2014.

He said that this remission of sentence has been announced in exercise of the powers conferred by sub section (1) of section 432 of Code of Criminal Procedure,1973(Central Act No.2 of 1974)read with Article 161 of the Constitution of India.

PATIALA AND TALWANDI SABO BY-ELECTIONS:

PUNJAB DECLARES PUBLIC HOLIDAY ON AUGUST 21 AT PATIALA AND BATHINDA DISTRICTS

· HOLIDAY ALSO UNDER NEGOTIABLE INSTRUMENTS ACT

· PAID HOLIDAY ALSO FOR FACTORY WORKERS AND WORKERS WORKING IN SHOP AND COMMERCIAL ESTABLISHMENTS

CHANDIGARH, AUGUST 14:

The Punjab government today announced public holiday in all Government offices/corporations/Boards and Educational institutes located in Patiala and Bathinda districts on August 21 to facilitate the employees to exercise their right of franchise in bye elections in Patiala and Talwandi Sabo constituencies.

Disclosing this here today an official spokesperson said that other employees, who are voters of these assembly constituencies but were posted in some other area, could also avail the facility of this public holiday by showing their voter identity cards to the competent authority and this holiday would not be deducted from their sanctioned holidays account. The spokesperson further said that this Public Holiday has also been declared under the Section 25 of Negotiable Instrument Act-1881.

Similarly, the state government, in order to ensure vote of workers in the by-election has declared August 21, 2014 a paid holiday in all shops and commercial establishment and for workmen, working in the factories and shops & commercial establishment in both these constituencies.

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VIGILANCE APPREHENDS PSPCL SDO ACCEPTING RS.40,000 AS BRIBE

CHANDIGARH, AUGUST 14:

The vigilance Bureau, Punjab has nabbed a SDO of Punjab State Power Corporation Limited (PSPCL) red-handed with the bribe money of Rs 40,000.

Disclosing this here today, an official spokesperson of the bureau said that Sarabjit Singh, SDO, PSPCL posted at sub-division-2, Bhogpur (Jalandhar) was nabbed on the complaint of Deep Kumar, Junior Engineer, sub-division, Jaura Chhitran (Gurdaspur). The complainant alleged that the SDO was demanding Rs.50,000 from him for clearing some official document. Finally, the deal was struck at Rs.40,000.

Acting on the tip-off, a trap was laid by the team of Vigilance Bureau, Unit Jalandhar led by DSP Nirmaljit Singh and accused Sarabjit Singh was arrested red-handed, while accepting bribe of Rs. 40,000 from the complainant. After the recovery of amount from him, a case under section 7 and 13 (2) of Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988 has been registered against the SDO in the Police Station, Jalandhar Range.

PUNJAB TO HONOUR 16 PERSONALITIES ON INDEPENDENCE DAY

CHANDIGARH, AUGUST 14:

Punjab Government would honour 16 personalities from different walks of life with State Award for their outstanding contribution on the occasion of the State Level function of 68thIndependence Day at Patiala.

According to an official spokesman, Dr. Parmjit Singh Bakshi from Jalandhar, Dr. Ajit Kumar Avashthi, Professor of Psychiatry, PGIMER, Chandigarh, Dr K.K.Talwar, Former Director, PGIMER, Chandigarh,Dr. Debasish Basu, MD,Associate Professor of Psychiatry, PGIMER, Chandigarh, Dr. R.A. Badwe, Director, Tata Memorial Centre,Mumbai, Dr. Gurcharan Singh Kalkat, Chairman, Farmers Commissions, Punjab, Sh. Sanjeev Nagpal, Nasa Agro Industries Pvt Ltd.Sampurn Agriventures Pvt.Ltd., S Surinder Kumar Ahuja c/o Zimidara Farm Solutions, Ferozepur, Sh. Shivkaran Singh from Sri Mukatsar Sahib, Sh. Rajpal Singh Gandhi from S.B.S Nagar; Sh. Devinder Singh from Ludhiana; Sh. Sukhdev Singh from SAS Nagar; Sh. Bhagwant Singh from Sri Muktsar Sahib; Dr. J.S.Neki former Director PGIMER Chandigarh; Sh. Ranjit Singh patwari from Amritsar would be honoured with state awards for the excellent services rendered by them in their respective professions.

Mr Rajinder Kochhar would also receive state award for remarkable contribution in the field of literature.

VIGILANCE NABS PATWARI WITH BRIBE MONEY OF Rs.10,000

CHANDIGARH, AUGUST 14:

Vigilance Bureau, Punjab today nabbed a Patwari with the bribe money of Rs.10,000. An official spokesperson of the bureau said that Mr. Jagdish Kumar of Village Basti Kesar Singh wali district Ferozepur has complained that Patwari Jagdev Singh posted at Revenue Circle, Guruharsahaye (Ferozepur) was demanding Rs.22,000 for mutation of land and the deal was matured for Rs.10,000.

Acting on the tip of the complainant, Ferozepur Vigilance Bureau team, led by DSP Makhan Singh, laid a trap and nabbed Jagdev Singh, while accepting money from the complainant.

A case under section 7 and 13 (2) of Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988 has been registered against Jagdev Singh at Vigilance Bureau Police Station, Ferozepur.

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THANDAL UNVEILS “EXPERIENCE PUNJAB ON THE ROAD” TRAVEL GUIDE OF PUNJAB

· UNIQUE EFFORT TO SHOWCASE PUNJAB TOURISM IN AN EXTENSIVE & SIMPLISTIC WAY

CHANDIGARH, AUGUST 14:

Mr. Sohan Singh Thandal, Tourism Minister, Punjab today released a travel guide of Punjab “Experience Punjab on the road” here today. Speaking on the occasion the Tourism Minister said that “this is a good effort to showcase Punjab in an extensive yet very simplistic way which will be helpful to the travel enthusiasts.”

Minister further said that Punjab Tourism started its marketing activities over past two years, which are aimed to create awareness among travel industry people by the state government. He said that several activities aimed to attract travel industry to promote the state are being undertaken like exhibiting in travel exhibitions in key markets of India. He said that besides inviting trade tour operators for familiarization tours, linking the travel trade of country with that of Punjab, Guide books like these help in reaching out to potential tourists highlighting the lesser known interesting places of Punjab as well.

Minister also lauded the effort put in by the book publishers Times Group Books and supported by Punjab Heritage and Tourism Promotion Board.

Secretary Tourism Punjab, Mrs. Raji Shrivastava speaking on the occasion highlighted that this book takes a travel enthusiast on a road journey, in tone’s won or a hired vehicle to the popular as well as lesser know sights of interest capturing the local flavor of the state. She said that the book offers a firsthand account of what to see, Where to eat and where to stay while having the leisure to choose one’s own pace, take in the sights and experience the joy of mingling with the locals. ‘It also focuses on some main and some offbeat destinations, places of interest, anecdotes, trivia, listing for hotels and farm-stays, restaurants as well as shopping’ said Razi.

Ms. Madhulita Mohanty, Natinoal Editor, Timse Group Books presented the first copy of guide book to Mr. Sohan Singh Thandal on the occasion.

Others prominent present on the occasion included Director Tourism, Mr. Navjot pal Singh Randhawa and Mr. Basanta Raj Kumar, Executive Director Punjab Heritage and Tourism Promotion Board.

INDEPENDENCE DAY 2014

PRESIDENT’S POLICE MEDAL FOR DISTINGUISHED SERVICE TO ONE IPS

v14 POLICE OFFICERS/OFFICIALS TO GET POLICE MEDAL FOR MERITORIOUS SERVICE

Chandigarh, August 14: Mr. Ganesh Dutt Pandey, IPS, DGP –cum-Commandant General, Home Guards & Director Civil Defence, Punjab has been awarded President’s Police Medal for Distinguished Service on the occasion of Independence Day-2014..

According to a spokesman of Punjab Police 14 other police officer/officials Mr. Khubi Ram, IGP Security, Punjab, Mr. Kunwar Vijay Partap Singh, DIG/Jalandhar Range, Mr. Surinder Pal Singh Parmar, DIG-cum-Joint Director, MRS PPA Phillaur , Punjab , Mr. Harcharan Singh Bhullar, SP-cum-Commandant 4thCommando BN, SAS Nagar, Mohali, Punjab, Mr. Gurmeet Singh Chauhan, SSP, Fatehgarh Sahib, Punjab , Mr. Swarandeep Singh, SP, City-1, SAS Nagar, Mr. Balwinder Singh, Commandant 82nd PAP, Chandigarh, Punjab , Mr. Simar Pal Singh Dhindsa, AIG, CI, Operation, Chandigarh, Punjab, Mr. Joban Singh, DSP, CID Unit SAS Nagar, Gurwinder Singh, DSP (C&R), ACP, Amritsar South, Punjab, Mr. Lakhbir Singh, Inspector (LR), SHO City, Tarn Taran, Punjab , Mr. Darshan Singh, Inspector, PRTC, Jahan Khelan, Punjab, Mr. Sucha Singh, Sub Inspector, PRTC, Jahan Khelan, Punjab and Mr. Kulwant Singh , ASI, City Traffic, Ludhiana, Punjab, have been awarded Police Medal for Meritorious Service.

Chandigarh, August 14:

The Eighth Session of the Fourteenth Punjab Vidhan Sabha which was adjourned sine-die at the at the conclusion of its sitting held on the 22nd July, 2014 has been prorogued by an order of the Governor of Punjab on 13th August, 2014.

CM RELEASES ANTHOLOGY OF STORIES IN URDU BY NOTED AUTHOR KK RATTU

· BADAL DESCRIBES RICH LITERATURE AS MIRROR OF THE SOCIETY

Chandigarh, August 13

Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today released a book of stories in Urdu ‘Lahu ki Barish’ penned by an eminent writer and Director, Chandigarh Doordarshan Dr. KK Rattu here at simple but impressive function at Doordarshan Kendra.

Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Badal said that the literature steers the society in new direction and rich literature was the only identity of any society. The Chief Minister highly appreciated the enormous contribution of Punjabis in enriching the Urdu literature and this piece of literary work by Dr. Rattu in Urdu was a positive step in this direction adding he said art of story writing was a unique characteristic of Urdu literature. Felicitating Dr. Rattu on the release of his new book, the Chief Minister hoped that it would be instrumental in giving a positive direction to the society by making huge contribution in literary field in near future too.

It may be recalled that Dr. Rattu has aptly depicted the tragedy of human relations of Indo-Pak ties in this anthology of stories.

The Chief Minister was accompanied by his Advisor on National Affairs and Media Mr. Harcharan Bains and his Special Principal Secretary Mr. Gaggandip Singh Brar besides the senior functionaries of the Doordarshan Kendra.

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ALL THE GOVERNMENT COLLEGES IN THE STATE TO HAVE 'SMART CLASSES'

CM OKAYS PROPOSAL IN THIS REGARD

MOVE TO HELP THE STUDENTS IN LEARNING THE HIGH END TECHNOLOGIES

14 GOVERNMENT COLLEGES TO HAVE 'FINISHING SCHOOLS' FOR IMPARTING VOCATIONAL AND SKILL TRAINING TO THE STUDENTS IN HOSPITALITY, AIRLINES, SALES & MARKETING, IT & NETWORKING AND RETAIL SECTORS

NOD FOR SETTING UP SPORTS COLLEGE AT JALANDHAR AND PUNJAB AERONAUTICAL ENGINEERING COLLEGE AT PATIALA

Chandigarh, August 13-

In a move aimed at imparting quality higher education to the students, the Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal gave approval for setting up 'Smart Classes' in all the government colleges of the state.

A decision to this effect was taken by the Chief Minister during a meeting with the officers of the Higher Education department at his residence on Tuesday late evening.

Taking part in deliberations, the Chief Minister, while underscoring the need for upgrading and strengthening the Higher education sector in the state said that these 'Smart Classes' must be established in all the government colleges across the state to equip the students with high end technologies. He said that this project would house ultra modern libraries and laboratories in these colleges, to enormously benefit the students. Mr. Badal also approved the allocation of Rs 5 lakh each to all the government colleges under this project.

In another significant decision, the Chief Minister also approved the opening of 'Finishing Schools' in the Government College Hoshiarpur, Tanda Urmur, Mansa, Bathinda, Tarn Taran, Jagroan, Patiala, Faridkot, Sunam, Gurdaspur, Ajnala, Dhudike, SCD College and Government College for Women Ludhiana for imparting vocational and skill training to the students in Hospitality, Airlines, Sales & Marketing, IT & Networking and Retail Sectors. Underscoring the adoption of a holistic approach to update the communication, inter personal, technical, essential employability and aptitude and problem solving skill of the students so that they could excel in future, Mr. Badal said that the state government would spend Rs 38 lakh for setting of these 'Finishing School' in 14 colleges selected in the first phase and the remaining colleges would be covered in the subsequent phases. He said that it was need of the hour to acquaint the students with the emerging trends in this sector so that they could be gainfully employed.

In order to promote sports and a relatively new discipline of Aeronautical Engineering in the state, the Chief Minister also approved the setting up of Sports College at Jalandhar and Punjab Aeronautical Engineering College at Patiala. He also approved the allocation of Rs 26 crore (Rs 13 crore for each college) to set up these colleges. Likewise, in order to promote education in the Educational Backward Districts (EBDs) of Ferozepur and Pathankot, Mr. Badal also approved the setting up of two Model Degree Colleges in these districts.

Prominent amongst those present in the meeting included Principal Secretary Finance Mrs. Vinnie Mahajan, Principal Secretary Higher Education Dr. Roshan Sunkaria, Special Principal Secretaries to Chief Minister Mr. KJS Cheema, Dr S Karunaraju and Mr. Ajoy Kumar Sharma and DPI Colleges Mr. GS Ghuman.

CM APPROVES SETTING UP OF THREE STATE-OF-THE ART INSTITUTES OF PARA MEDICAL SCIENCES IN THE STATE

MOVE AIMED AT IMPARTING MEDICAL SKILL TRAINING TO THE YOUTH FOR COPING UP THE NEEDS OF HEALTHCARE SECTOR

CENTERS TO COME UP AT PATIALA, AMRITSAR AND FARIDKOT MEDICAL COLLEGES

Chandigarh, August 13-

In a bid to provide ample employment opportunities to the youth by imparting Medical skill training to cater the needs of Health sector, the Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal gave nod for setting up three state-of-the Art Institutes of Para Medical Sciences at Patiala, Amritsar and Faridkot.

A decision to this effect was taken by the Chief Minister during a high level meeting with the officers of the Health and Family Welfare and Technical Education Department besides the Heads of the Medical Colleges of the state.

Presiding over the meeting, the Chief Minister impressed upon the need for harnessing the tremendous potential in Healthcare sector by providing Medical skill education to the youth so as to cope with the emerging needs of this industry. He said that setting up of these institutes of Para Medical Sciences was the need of the hour to absorb the majority of youth by providing gainful employment to them in the Health sector. Mr. Badal said that these Institutes, to be established in the Government Medical Colleges at Patiala, Amritsar and Faridkot, would act as a catalyst in boosting Medical Tourism across the state.

Underlining the need for having airy, green and spacious campus along with ultra modern training techniques, the Chief Minister said that these institutes must have adequate Hostel facility to cater the needs of 500 students annually adding that the classes should be started at the earliest, so that youth could be imparted skill training in around 70 different courses shortlisted by the state government. He asked the officers of the Health and Family care and technical education department to select appropriate sites for these institutes in the Medical colleges, so that work on this project could be started soon. Mr. Badal also said that thrust should be given to courses like Home Care attendants and specialized staff for taking care of the Cancer patients as there was a huge surge in the demand of such staff.

Taking part in deliberations, Advisor Health to the Government of Punjab Dr. KK Talwar apprised the Chief Minister that the state government has already identified sites for the construction of four-five storey building campus and hostel for these institutes. He also informed the Chief Minister that efforts were also afoot to sign Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with an organization Healthcare Sector Skill Council led by ace Cardiologist Dr. Naresh Trehan, which had expressed its keen desire to set up a Center of Excellence in Medical Care in the state. Dr. Talwar also apprised the Chief Minister that they were looking into all the formalities before striking any agreement with Dr. Trehan.

Prominent amongst those who attended the meeting included Principal Secretary Health and Family Welfare Mrs. Vinnie Mahajan, Special Principal Secretaries of Chief Minister Mr. KJS Cheema and Dr. S Karunaraju, Director Technical Education Mr. Rakesh Aggarawal besides the Heads of Medical Colleges Amritsar, Patiala and Faridkot.

BANKS TO PROVIDE CREDIT LINE TO FOOD PROCESSING SECTOR IN PUNJAB

· OFFERS TO PROVIDE LIBERAL CREDIT FOR COLD CHAINS, REEFER VEHICLES AND EXPANSION OF EXISTING UNITS

CHANDIGARH, AUGUST 13: The food processing sector in Punjab would get total support of banking sector with State Level Bankers Committee deciding to provide liberal credit line to food processing ventures including cold chain and reefer vehicles.

In the State Level Banker Committee meet presided over Principal Secretary Finance Mrs. Vini Mahajan and Mr. Gauri Shankar Executive Director of Punjab National Bank, Mr. S.R. Ladhar, Secretary Food Processing gave a detailed presentation on food processing sector and its upcoming projects in the state. Mr. Gauri Shankar said that it was imperative for all banks to support food processing sector as per the latest policies of Reserve Bank of India that focuses on value addition of agriculture products. He asked all the banks to aggressively provide credit support to all sunshine projects of food processing sector in the state as per the policies of RBI. He said that RBI has framed special policies for financing cold chain, reefer vehicles and expansion of existing food processing units and it was duty of bankers to educate prospective entrepreneurs regarding the new attractive policy of RBI for the food processing sector and provide them helping hand till food processing units reach break even point.

Secretary Food Processing Mr. Ladhar advised banks to make schemes of department more popular and asked them to pursue the entrepreneurs to set up new units & modernization of existing units in the Food Processing sector. He asked the bankers to educate entrepreneurs regarding the new policies of Punjab Government including the Grant-in-aid scheme that varies from 5 lakh to 5 crore.

PUNJAB GOVERNMENT ISSUES STRICT DIRECTIONS TO MAINTAIN THE DIGNITY OF NATIONAL FLAG

· ASKED TO ENFORCE BAN ON PLASTIC FLAGS

CHANDIGARH, AUGUST 13:

The Punjab Government today issued strict directions to all Divisional commissioners, Deputy Commissioners and SDMs to maintain the dignity of National Flag in the state. A spokesperson of the Punjab Government today said that all the concerned authorities have been asked to follow the Flag Code

The Spokesman further said that authorities in the Punjab has been directed not to use the Plastic Flags which are not biodegradable like the paper flags. This affects the dignity of the flag. Also plastic, not being biodegradable, is harmful to the atmosphere.

He said that to ensure that on important national, cultural and sports events only flags made of papers are used by public in terms of the provisions of the Flag Code of India and such papers Flags are not discarded or thrown on the ground after the event. Such Flags are to be disposed off in private consistent with the dignity of the Flag.

SURINDER KAUR DAYAL SWORN IN AS MEMBER PSSSB

CHANDIGARH AUGUST 12:

Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today administered the oath of office and secrecy to Smt. Surinder Kaur Dayal as member of the Punjab Subordinate Services Selection Board (PSSSB) at a simple but an impressive ceremony here at Punjab Bhawan this morning.

Disclosing this here today a spokesperson of the Chief Minister’s Office said that with the induction of Smt. Dayal, the total strength of the board had gone up to 12.

Meanwhile, the Chief Secretary Mr. Sarvesh Kaushal conducted the proceedings of the swearing-in-ceremony of Smt. Dayal.

Prominent amongst others who were present on the occasion included former Cabinet Minister Mr. Hira Singh Gabria, Chairman PSSSB Mr. Santa Singh Umaidpuri, Principal Secretary to the Chief Minister Mr. SK Sandhu, Special Principal Secretaries to Chief Minister Mr. KJS Cheema and Dr.SK Raju and Secretary Personnel Mr. Vikas Partap, Special Secretary Personnel Mrs.Gupreet Kaur Sapra and Special Secretary Protocol Mr. Manjit Singh Narang, besides the senior party leaders and workers of SAD-BJP. The family members and relatives also attended the function.

Sukhbir Badal hails Atwal’s nomination in Commonwealth parliamentary association

Chandigarh August 12: Punjab Deputy Chief Minister Mr. Sukhbir Singh prestigious position which has been rightly given to a Punjabi for his exceptional qualities as a senior parliamentarian. Mr. Badal also said that it was a great honour not for the people of Punjab but for the entire Legislators’ fraternity of India. It may be mentioned here that Mr. Atwal was earlier elected as vice chairman of executive committee of CPA in September 2001. He was previously elected as regional representative for Asia region of executive committee of CPA in September 1999.

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PUNJAB TO SETUP FIVE MORE MAIZE DRYER UNITS: JATHEDAR TOTA SINGH

· NEW MAIZE DRYER UNITS TO BE INSTALLED WITH RS 26 CRORE

· NEW UNITS WOULD BE SET UP AT MACHIWARA, NAKODER, KAPURTHALA, BHOGPUR AND PHAGLANA (HOSHIARPUR

CHANDIGARH, 12 AUGUST:

Punjab Government to setup five more Maize Dryer Units in the state to promote Maize as an alternative crop in place of paddy and to check the depletion and contamination of ground water. These Five units would be setup with cost of Rs 26 Crore for which central government has given its approval for the funds.

The Agriculture Minister of Punjab Jathedar Tota Singh disclosing this here today said that these five new units would be installed at Machiwara, Nakoder, Kapurthala, Bhogpur and Phaglana (Hoshiarpur) to facilitate farmers. The Minister also said that the Punjab Government has already installed two maize dryer plants one each at Hoshiarpur & Nawan Sehar districts with the cost of Rs 18 Crore to dry maize according to the international parameters.

Agriculture Minister demanded that Union Government should fix Rs. 1815 per quintal MSP of maize to develop Maize as an alternate crop in place of paddy in the state at the earliest. He also demanded 100 per cent procurement of maize by the Union Government on MSP.

Dr. Mangal Singh Director Agriculture Department, Punjab further elaborating on the diversification programme being carried out by the department said that area under maize crop has registered double-fold increase this year against last year giving a much needed push to diversification. He also appealed to the farmers to actively participate in the Agriculture camps organized by the department to get used to the new technologies in the Agriculture field.

NO RESERVATION FOR PUNJAB BHAWAN NEW DELHI FROM 14TH TO 16TH AUGUST

CHANDIGARH, AUGUST 12:

Reservation for Punjab Bhawan, New Delhi would be closed for two days from 14th August due to launching campaign against harmful insects. It was disclosed by an official spokesman of the Punjab Government.

The spokesman said that in order to control over the harmful insects no reservation would be accorded to any person from August 14th (After Noon) to August 16th(Before Noon) of Block A and B.

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ECI ISSUES INSTRUCTIONS REGARDING EXIT & OPINION POLL AND SURVEY

CHANDIGARH, AUGUST 12:

In view of Patiala and Talwandi Sabo assembly constituencies’ by-elections in the State of Punjab, the Election Commission of India (ECI) has issued instructions restricting to conduct any exit poll and publication and dissemination of result of such exit poll during the period between 7.00 am and 6.30 pm on August 21, 2014.

Mr. V.K. Singh, Chief Electoral Officer, Punjab today said that ECI has already announced the schedule for the by-elections of the Patiala and Talwandi Sabo legislative assembly constituencies on July 19, 2014. He said that as per the provisions of sections 126-A of the Representation of the People Act (RP Act), 1951, there would be restrictions on conduct of any exit poll and publication and dissemination of result of such exit poll during period between 7.00 am and 6.30 pm on August 21, 2014 (Thursday). He said that during this period, conducting any exit poll and publishing or publicizing by means of the print or electronic media or dissemination in any other manner, whatsoever, the result of the any exit poll in connection with the by-election, would be prohibited.

CEO further clarified that under section 126 (1) (b) of the same act, displaying any election matter including results of any opinion poll or any other poll survey, in any electronic media, would be prohibited during the period of 48 hours ending with the hours fixed for conclusion of poll for the by-elections.

VOTERS MUST CARRY EPIC AND OTHER AUTHENTICATED PHOTO IDENTITY DURING POLLING: CEO

CHANDIGARH, AUGUST 12:

To prevent impersonation and to make the right of genuine electors to vote under sections 61 and 62 of the Representation of the People Act, 1951, the Election Commission of India (ECI) has appealed that all electors, who have been issued Electors Photo Identity Card (EPIC) should produce their EPIC for the identification at the polling station before casting their votes for the by-elections of Patiala and Talwandi Sabo assembly constituencies.

Divulging other details, Mr. V.K. Singh, Chief Electoral Officer, Punjab today said that those electors, who are not able to produce the EPIC, would produce one of the alternative photo identity document for establishing their identity i.e. Passport, Driving License, Service Identity Cards with photograph issued to employees by Central/State Government, PSUs/Public Limited Companies, Passbooks with photograph issued by Bank/Post Office, PAN Card, Aadhar Card, Smart Card issued by RGI under NPR, MNREGA job card, Health Insurance Smart Card issued under the scheme of Ministry of Labour, Pension document with photograph and Authenticated Photo Voter Slip issued by the Election Machinery.

He said that in the case of EPIC, clerical errors and spelling mistakes etc. should be ignored provided the identity of the electoral could be established by the EPIC. If an elector produces an EPIC issued by the Electoral Registration Office of another assembly constituency, such EPIC would also be accepted for identification provided the name of that elector finds place in the electoral roll pertaining to the polling station, where the elector has turned up for voting. If it is not possible to establish the identity of the elector on account of mismatch of photograph etc., the elector will have to produce one of the above alternative photo documents.

CEO further said that notwithstanding any alternative photo identity documents, overseas electors, who have registered in the electoral rolls under section 20-A of the RP Act, based on the particulars in their passport, would be identified on the basis of their original passport only (and no other identity documents) in the polling station.

AMARPAL SINGH TO UNFURL FLAG AT AJNALA, VALTOHA AT BABA BAKALA

CHANDIGARH, AUGUST 12:

With the slight change in Independence Day Programs, Mr. Amarpal Singh Ajnala, Chief Parliamentary Secretary (CPS), Technical Education and Industrial Training would now unfurl the National Flag at Ajnala instead of Baba Bakala, where Mr. Virsa Singh Valtoha, CPS, Water Supply & Sanitation and Defence Services Welfare would participate as chief guest and would unfurl the tri-colour.

An official spokesperson said that this decision has been taken in view of unavailability of Mr. Inderbir Singh Bolaria, CPS, Education, due to his unavoidable engagements.

SC COMMISSION DIRECTS SSP TARN TARAN TO ACT AGAINST ACCUSED POLICE PERSONAL

· THE CASE PERTAINS TO THE POLICE PERSONAL WHO FORCED A DALIT GIRL FOR SEXUAL FAVOUR

· SSP DIRECTED TO SEND COMPLIANCE REPORT WITHIN A WEEK

CHANDIGARH, AUGUST 12:

Taking strong cognizance of the incident happened in Tarn taran District where in a dalit girl was forced for a sexual favour by the police personal, the Punjab State Commission for Scheduled Castes has written hard hitting letter to the SSP Tarn taran advocating strong action against the accused.

In a press communiqué released here today Mr.Rajesh Bagha, Chairman, Punjab State Commission for Scheduled Castes said that it was very unfortunate that the custodian of the law and order are violating the law and indulge in such kind of heinous crime. The Commission has directed the SSP Tarn taran to initiate action against the accused and send the compliance report to the commission within a week.

Mr. Bagha said that the incident is hard wrenching that an innocent dalit girl was intimated by the Punjab Police personal for sexual favour. He said that when the girl refused the police personal resorted to power tactics and terrorized the girl for dire consequences. He said that even after the girl approached the SHO, he blatantly refused to lodge the complaint and pressurized the girl to keep mum on this issue. Mr. Bagha said that a SC Commission has taken suo moto notice of this highly sensitive issue and asked the SSP Tarn taran to initiate action against the accused and send the compliance report to the commission within a week.

PUNJAB GOVERNMENT TO FACLIFT THE JUVENILE HOMES AND BLIND CHILDREN SCHOOLS: JAYANI

Chandigarh, August 12: Punjab Government has decided to faclift the overall condition of Juvenile Homes and Blind Children Schools. All vacant posts and adequate number of Police personal would be provided to the Juvenile homes and structural development would be done in these institutions. Mr. Surjeet Kumar Jayani Health & Family Welfare, Social Security and Women & Child Welfare Development Minister, Punjab said this after presiding over meeting of senior officers of the department. Earlier in that Mr. Jayani conducted a surprise check at the Juvenile Home and Blind Children School at Ludhiana and called an urgent meeting at Chandigarh to discuss the needful to be done for the betterment of these institutions.

In the meeting Mr. Jayani instructed the officials to make a blue print of all the basic facilities and structural development of Juvenile Homes and ordered to submit this report to him within a week. He also instructed to immidately start a process to fill the permanent post of the Incharge of Ludhiana juvenile Home and also asked the officials to take up the matter to provide adequate number of police personal at the Juvenile homes with the concerned department.

Mr. Jayani directed the officials to start a process for renovation, paint and cleanliness of Juvenile Homes and Blind Children schools so that this matter could be taken up with Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal to allocate additional funds for this purpose at the earliest. Mr. Jayani also announced to upgrade the studio and printing press of Blind Children School of Ludhiana and asked the officials to immediately start process for this work.

CM TO LAY FOUNDATION STONE OF JANG-E-AZADI MEMORIAL

ON OCTOBER 12

ASKS EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE TO MAKE ELABORATE ARRANGEMENTS FOR THIS MEGA EVENT

APPROVES DESIGN LAYOUT OF THE UPCOMING MEMORIAL CONCEPTUALIZED BY THE WORLD’S LEADING ARCHITECT RAJ REWAL

APPRECIATES DR.HAMDARD FOR HIS UNTIRING EFFORTS TO TRANSFORM THIS DREAM PROJECT INTO REALITY

CHANDIGARH AUGUST 11:

Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal would lay the foundation stone of world class Jang-e-Azadi Memorial at Kartarpur (Jalandhar) on October 12.

This decision was taken in the meeting of the Jang-e-Azadi Memorial Foundation held here at Punjab Bhawan this afternoon under the chairmanship of Mr. Badal. It was also decided in the meeting that the foundation laying ceremony of this prestigious memorial would be commemorated as a mega event which was expected to be attended by at least 50,000 persons. He also asked the executive committee to make all arrangements well in advance for the foundation stone laying ceremony of this project besides inviting all the family members of the freedom fighters and other patriots associated with different movements of nation’s freedom struggle on this gala day. Mr. Badal said that since it was a unique initiative of the state government to construct this memorial over an area of 25 acre at Kartarpur at a cost of Rs.200 crore, to showcase the rich legacy and enormous contribution of Punjabis in the Indian freedom struggle. He also approved the design layout of the upcoming memorial conceptualized and designed by the world’s leading architect Raj Rewal who had several architectural marvels to his credit like Parliamentary library, Hall of Nations, the World Bank building and Asian Games Village besides many high-tech buildings in Lisbon, Beijing, New York and Portugal.

During a power point presentation, Mr. Rewal discussed the concept of the Jang-e-Azadi memorial and museum based on a circular enclosure which houses the focal centre of the memorial and integrates it with a harmonious ensemble of galleries amplifying the struggle and sacrifice for freedom around a ceremonial path. Mr. Rewal also explained the proposed galleries to be constructed to highlight the different movements of the freedom struggle of Punjab besides exhibition gallery, shahid-e-minar, auditorium, movie hall, open air theatre, amphitheater, library and research, seminar halls besides cafeteria, food court, kids’ corner, administrative block, shops and parking facility on the model of Jang-e-Azadi memorial. The Chief Minister also asked Mr. Rewal to ensure its completion within 18 months. The Chief Minister also approved the design of the boundary wall to be constructed along with the four sides of the memorial.

Earlier, the Member Secretary of the foundation and Managing Editor of the Ajit Group of Newspapers Dr. Barjinder Singh Hamdard apprised the Chief Minister about the progress made so far with regard to the screen play and script of the film being directed by renowned film personality Mr. Sham Benegal and the allocation of work to one of the five short listed expert companies for the laser show. He also updated the Chief Minister about the perfect coordination between the executive committee, film committee and technical committee especially the consultants of the group for carrying out day-to-day affairs related to the upcoming memorial efficaciously.

Appreciating the team work headed by Dr. Hamdrad, the Chief Minister said that it would not have been possible today to realize this dream in terms of Jang-e-Azadi memorial which he had taken couple of years ago and was confident now that it would soon come on the ground with strenuous efforts of all members of the team especially under the expertise and guidance of Dr.Hamdard. The Chief Minister assured the foundation that paucity of funds would not be allowed hamper the progress of the project as he had already developed a system for automatic generation of funds for this dream project.

Prominent amongst those present in the meeting included Cultural Affairs and Tourism Minister Mr. Sohan Singh Thandal, Chief Parliamentary Secretary Mr. Som Parkash, Members of Parliament Mr. Ranjit Singh Brahmpura, Mr. Sukhdev Singh Dhindsa, BJP State President Mr. Kamal Sharma, Technical Advisor to CM Lt.Gen.(Retd.) BS Dhaliwal, former MP Mr. Tarlochan Singh, Chief Secretary Mr. Sarvesh Kaushal, Principal Secretary to Chief Minister Mr. SK Sandhu, Principal Secretary Finance Mrs. Vinni Mahajan, Secretary Cultural Affairs Mrs. Raji P Srivastva, Special Principal Secretary to CM Dr.S.Karuna Raju, Vice Chancellor Dr. Jaspal Singh, CEO of the Jang-e-Azadi memorial foundation Mr.Vinay Bublani and Deputy Commissioner Jalandhar Mr. Kamal Kishore Yadav.

CM ANNOUNCES TO SETUP NCC NAGAR-CUM-ACADEMY AT JALANDHAR OVER SIX ACRES

NCC NAGARS AT AMRITSAR, PATIALA AND LUDHIANA TO COME UP IN NEXT PHASE

ASKS FINANCE DEPARTMENT TO MAKE BUDGETARY PROVISION FOR ANNUAL MAINTENANCE EXPENDITURE OF NCC ACADEMIES

CHANDIGARH, AUGUST 11

In a bid to further boost the National Cadet Corps (NCC) - a Tri-Services Organisation comprising the Army, Navy and Air Force in a big way in the state, the Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today announced to setup a state-of-the-art NCC Nagar-cum-Academy at Jalandhar over an area of six acres.

A decision to this effect was taken by Mr. Badal today while presiding over a high level meeting here at Punjab Bhawan in which the Additional Director General NCC, Punjab, Haryana, Himachal Pradesh and Chandigarh Maj. General GS Chima VSM, Brigadier SPS Aulakh and senior officers of the state government had participated.

Mr. Badal said that State Government would extend fulsome support and cooperation to the NCC Directorate for intensifying its activities through involving more and more youth in the state. He said that the state government had already set up NCC academies at Rupnagar and Malout, which wre running successfully. He also approved the proposal of the Directorate for the up-gradation of the NCC Companies (Minor Units) to the NCC Battalion levels for enhancing the scope of NCC and asked the authorities to immediately initiate the process in this regard.

The Chief Minister also gave his nod to establish NCC Nagars on the Gujarat model at Amritsar, Patiala and Ludhiana in a phased manner after the completion of the same at Jalandhar. While reviewing the ongoing works under the NCC Programme in the state, Mr. Badal asked Maj. General GS Chima to give their proposals to the Higher Education department so that Government could release the amount accordingly for the completion of unfinished works at NCC academies. The Chief Minister also approved to delegate the HoD powers to ADG NCC. On the request of NCC directorate, Mr. Badal asked the Finance Department to workout the modalities for making Budgetary provisions in the Higher Education’s Budget as per the requirements of the NCC directorate to mitigate annual maintenance expenditure for these NCC academies. Mr. Badal also directed the concerned authorities to complete water Supply works at the academies within a week, besides the construction of inner roads and Basketball and Volleyball grounds of the academies at Rupnagar and Malout.

Expressing gratitude to the Chief Minister for considering their all demands and prompt action for the development of NCC, the Additional Director General NCC, Maj. General GS Chima assured Mr. Badal that Directorate would strive hard to inculcating soldier like spirit in the youth of the state by motivating them to join NCC for a disciplined life.

Prominent amongst those who were present on the occasion included Higher Education Minister Mr. Surjit Singh Rakhra, Principal Secretary Finance Mrs. Vini Mahajan, Principal Secretary Higher Education Dr. Roshan Sunkaria, Assistant Director NCC Mr. Ashok Kumar, Special Principal Secretaries to the Chief Minister Mr. K.J.S. Cheema and Dr. SK Raju and DC Jalandhar Kamal Kishor Yadav besides other senior officers of the State government.

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BADAL CALLS UPON THE PROGRESSIVE FISH FARMERS TO INSTALL SUBSIDIZED SOLAR PUMPS

· FISHERY DEVELOPMENT BOARDAPPROVES TO CONSTITUTE A 9-MEMBER EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE

· PUNJAB ALL SET TO ESTABLISH 14 MODERNIZED GOVERNMENT FISH SEED FARMS WITHIN TWO YEARS

· TEAM OF EXPERTS DEPUTED BY ANDHRA CM VISITS PUNJAB

· INTERACTS WITH PROGRESSIVE FISH FARMERS

Chandigarh August 11-

Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today called upon the progressive Fish farmers to install subsidized Solar Pumps for the fishery activities at their respective fish farms to make their farming far more financially viable.

Disclosing this here today a spokesperson of the Chief Minister’s office said that Mr. Badal was presiding over the maiden meeting of the recently constituted State Fishery Development Board to boost the fish farming in Punjab especially in thewater logged areas in southern belt having brackish water.

Mr. Badal asked the concerned departments to work out the modalities to exempt the fish farming activities from the commercial tariff being levied on electricity consumption.

The Board also approved to constitute a 9-member Executive Committee headed by Financial Commissioner, Animal Husbandry, Fisheries and Dairy Development to ensure effective implementation of the decisions taken in the Board besides monitoring various developments in this sector for the promotion of the fishery in a big way. The other members of the committee would include; VC GADVASU, nominee of Principal Secretary Finance, Additional Chief Executive officer of Punjab livestock Development Board, Director Fisheries besides two progressive members each from large and small scale Fish Farmers. The logo of the board was also approved in the meeting. Apart from this, the board also discussed the steps to be taken for heralding ‘Blue Revolution’ in the state.

The Chief Minister emphasized the need to promote fish farming on a mass scale as the traditional agriculture was no more remunerative and the only solution was to shift towards allied farming activities like fishery, dairy and bee-keeping etc in order to enhance the income of farmers manifold. He said the state government had planned to set up 14 Modernized Government Fish Seed Frames, out of which seven would be set up at RaykeKalan (Bathinda), Mallwal (Ferozpur), Hayatnagar (Gurdaspur), Dosanjh Nabha (Patiala), Mohi (Ludhiana), Faridkot and Rajasansi (Amritsar) at a cost of Rs. 18.34 crore during the year 2014-15, whereas the other seven would be taken up in the next year. He further said that the state government was also providing 50 percent subsidy for setting up new fish farms in the state.

Terming Andhra Pardesh as one of most developed states in fish production, Mr. Parkash Singh Badal said that recently he had impressed upon his Andhra Pradesh counterpart Mr. Chandra Babu Naidu to depute a team of fishery experts to visit Punjab for sharing their vast experience and rich expertise related to the fish hatcheries, fish rearing and post harvest technology. The Chief Minister thanked Mr. Naidu for dispatching a special team comprising Dr. TV Raman, Dr. P. Sai Baba, Dr. Ravi Rama Krishna and Prof. Padam Kumar, who were now in the state on three-day study tour. The team members also apprised the Chief Minister through their Power Point Presentation on the need for bringing improvements in the field of fish farming besides giving vital inputs in this regard to promote fish farming on scientific lines.

Prominent amongst those who were present on the occasion included Chairman Punjab State Farmers Commission Dr. GS Kalkat, Financial Commissioner Animal Husbandry Mr. G Vajralingam, Principal Secretary Finance Mrs. Vini Mahajan, Secretary Expenditure Mr. Jaspal Singh, Special Principal Secretaries to the Chief Minister Mr. K.J.S. Cheema and Dr. SK Raju, VC GADVASU Dr. VK Taneja besides other senior officers of the State government and Progressive Farmers.

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WATER LEVEL IN BHAKRA DAM 5.12 FEET HIGHER THAN LAST YEAR

CHANDIGARH, AUGUST 11:

The water level in the Bhakra Dam today recorded at a level of 1662.50 feet against 1657.38 feet last year on the same day. Water level is 5.12 feet more than as it was last year on the same day.

Disclosing this here today an official spokesperson of the irrigation department said that the water level of pong Dam has been recorded at 1344.38 feet which is 34.72 feet less than it was recorded last year that is 1379.10 feet. Similarly the water level of Ranjit Sagar Dam on August 11, 2014 touched 519.46 meter mark which is 2.17 meter more than the water level recorded last year on the same day.

He further said that the inflow of water in Bhakra is 45045 cusec against 47794 last year and the release from Bhakra Dam is 25000 cusec against 31173 cusec last year. Inflow of water in pong Dam has been recorded as 23388 cusec against 34108 cusec on the same day last year and inflow of water in Ranjit Sagar Dam is 12233 cusec against 14760 cusec and release from Ranjit Sagar Dam is 16312 cusec against 5447 cusec release on the same day last year.

He further said that the water level of Madhopur HeadWorks has been recorded at 15945 cusec against 5051 cusec on the same day last year.

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N.K.SHARMA TO UNFURL FLAG AT DERABASSI

CHANDIGARH, AUGUST 11:

Punjab Chief Parliamentary Secretary, Industries and Commerce Mr. N.K.Sharma would unfurl the National Flag at Derabassi on Independence Day instead of Rajpura.

This was disclosed by a spokesman of the Punjab Government here today.

Joshi condoles the demise of Rajinder Kumar of Amritsar in US

CHANDIGARH, AUGUST 11:

Punjab Local Government Minister, Mr. Anil Joshi today expressed profound grief and sorrow over the sad demise of Mr Rajinder Kumar a resident of Amritsar who was murdered in United States on August 7.

Expressing his heart felt sympathies with the bereaved family, he assured that every possible effort would be made to bring the dead body of Rajinder Kumar to his native place. The Minister has also written to Union Foreign Minister Mrs. Sushma Sawaraj urging her to take up the matter with the Indian Embassy at USA so that the formalities could be completed without any delay and the body could be brought back at the earliest, he added

declares 1806.69 hectare land as protected forest in Roopnagar

CHANDIGARH, AUGUST 11:

The Punjab government has declared 1806.69 hectare land as a protected forest in district Roopnagar Where certain regulations, restrictions or prohibitions has been imposed with regard to Clearing, breaking and cultivation of the land, quarrying of stones, burning of lime, cutting of trees or timber or collection or removal of any forest produce, the admission, herding, pasturing or retention of any cattle etc. under the Forest Conservation Act, 1900.

Disclosing this here today Mr. Chunni Lal Bhagat, Forest Minister, Punjab said that notification has been issued and this land declared to be protected under section 4 & 5 of the Punjab Land Preservation Act, 1900. He said that 108 village of District Rupnagar including villages Dabkhera, Behlu, Dasgran, Talwara, Hambewal ,Dubheta , Nangal Niku,Nangali ,Daroli ,Donal, Jindwari ,Basowal ,Ganguwal ,Paili Khurd ,Mangewal ,Bandlehri,Bhallan ,Bhangal ,Mehandpur,Bela Dhiani , Palata ,Kahanpur Khuhi,Haripur ,Spalwan,Nalhoti ,Raisra , Kukowal ,Kalwan ,Rampur Kalan,Raipur ,Sakhpur, Jhangrian 493 ,Karuran, Katta, Sabour ,Ghahi Majra ,Haripur Ganura ,Singhpur ,Hayatpur,Saupur, Barari, Basali ,Kangar,Jatoli ,Nurpur Khurd Kartarpur,Raipur ,Khatana, Rajgiri ,Jhandian ,Tiba Nangal, Balewal ,Jatwar, Dhamana ,Bathlaur Khad , Garhbaga ,Tiba Taprian ,Lakher , Mehandli Khurd,Baloli ,Raipur Sahni ,Dolowal ,Mianpur,Mataur ,Sahota ,Lamlehri,Rampur ,Kalan ,Dabhur ,Jeowal , Bhatoli ,Dadhi ,Mianpur Handur ,Hardo Nirmoh,Hardo Haripur ,Jhinjri ,Tarapur ,Mohiwal,Thappal, Nard,Chamroli,Maura,Dehni, Baruwal,Ghanaur, Mindhwan, Kotla,Barari ,Mukari ,Gochar ,Ajauli, Meghpur,Dhanera ,Dukli,Surewal, Dharu,Brahampur ,Manakpur,Kalitran,Patti, Chandpur ,Bhanam, Sawamipur, Thaluh, Mehandli Kalan, Beekapur, Jandla,Baddal.

He said that the cultivation, clearing or breaking up (by using heavy machinery, that is, JCBs, bulldozers, earth movers etc) land areas included unless the breaking up of such land areas for cultivation or otherwise is done after obtaining permission of the Divisional Forest Officer, Rupnagar after following due procedure under the Forest Conservation Act, 1980.

He further said that the quarrying of stone, sand and soil or the burning of lime at places where such stone or lime had not ordinarily been so quarried or burnt prior to the publication of the said notification, except with the permission of the Divisional Forest Officer, Rupnagar.

He said that the cutting and lopping of trees or timber or the collection or removal or subjection to any manufacturing process of any forest produce other than grass, flower, fruit and honey, save for bonafide domestic or agricultural purposes provided that the owners of the land may sell trees or timber after first obtaining a permit to do so from the Divisional Forest Officer, Rupnagar Forest Division. Such permits will prescribe such conditions for sale as may from time to time appear necessary in the interest of the forest conservancy.

He said that the setting on fire to trees, timber or forest produce and the admission, herding, pasturing or retention of goats and camels provided that in cases where sickness necessitates the keeping of goats for milk. Divisional Forest Officer, Rupnagar Forest Division, may issue a permit at his discretion for the retention of a limited number of stalled goats to be specified for a specified period.

CM REITERATES COMMITMENT TO FOIL EVERY ATTEMPT OF ‘MODREN DAY MAHANTS’ TO TAKE CONTROL OF GURDWARAS IN HARYANA

EMOTIVE ISSUE OF GURDWARAS CLOSE TO HEART AND SOUL OF EVERY SIKH MORE THAN THEIR LIVES

DELIBERATE ATTEMPT BY CONGRESS TO WEAKEN SAD, SGPC AND SRI AKAL TAKHT SAHIB INTOLERABLE

ASSAILS CONGRESS FOR STEP MOTHERLY TREATMENT WITH PUNJAB

MODI’S DYNAMISM AND VISION WOULD STEER THE COUNTRY ON THE PATH OF PROGRESS AND DEVELOPMENT BY OVERCOMING ALL THE HURDLES

PUNJAB TO BE IMMENSELY BENEFITTED BY NDA REGIME

22 REHABILITATION CENTERS TO BE OPERATIONAL WITHIN FOUR MONTHS

ADVICES CONGRESS TO PLAY A CONSTRUCTIVE ROLE

POLITICAL CONFERENCE AT BABA BAKALA

Baba Bakala (Amritsar), August 10:

Terming that the emotive issue of Gurdwaras was ever close to heart and soul of every Sikh more than their lives, the Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today said that the Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) was duty bound to thwart every attempt of the ‘modern day mahants’ to take over the control of their revered shrines in Haryana.

Addressing a mammoth gathering here during a political conference to mark the sacred occasion of Rakhar Punia, the Chief Minister said that realizing well that the Gurdwaras were the chief source of temporal and spiritual power of the Sikhs, the Congress and its agents were trying to wrest there control. However, he said that these attempts of the Congress and its stooges would never turn into a reality because every Sikh was aware of their dubious track record. Mr. Badal said that the deliberate attempt by the Congress to weaken the SAD, Shiromani Gurdwara Prabandhak Committee (SGPC) and even Sri Akal Takht Sahib, was totally intolerable.

Recalling the enormous sacrifices made by the Sikhs to constitute the SGPC during the British Raj, the Chief Minister said that the ‘modern day mahants’ were trying to weaken this prestigious body of the Sikhs, at the behest of Congress party. He said that it was a time for every Sikh to introspect the anti-Sikh stance of the Congress, which has attacked Sri Harmandir Sahib and killed innocent Sikhs during 1984 Sikh carnage, so that it could be taught a befitting lesson for all these sins. “The tyrannies unleashed by the Congress party on Sikhs had surpassed even those of the Britishers and the Mughals due to which every true Sikh can never forgive it” added Mr. Badal.

Lashing out at the Congress party for meting out step motherly treatment towards the state, the Chief Minister said that more than 80% of the people who had sacrificed their lives during the freedom struggle belonged to Punjab. Likewise, he said that the Punjabis had remained on the forefront to safeguard the country during any internal or external aggression adding that the hard working and resilient farmers of the state had played a key role in making the country self reliant in food production. However, Mr. Badal said that the successive Congress governments at the centre had deliberately framed such policies, which were aimed at ruining the industry and agriculture in the state. “Besides all this the Congress party has irrelevantly meddled in the social, political, economic and even religious matters of the state” he added.

The Chief Minister further said that the Congress party’s policy of excessive centralization of powers, have ruined the country in every field. However, he said that under the dynamic, progressive and visionary leadership of Prime Minister Mr. Narendra Modi, the country would soon reach the pinnacle of its glory. Mr. Badal expressed hope that the Prime Minister would steer the country on the path of progress and development by overcoming all the hurdles. “It may take some time but the day is not far away when Mr. Modi will restore the pristine glory of country by overcoming the current crisis faced by the nation” he added.

Later on interacting with the media persons, the Chief Minister said that it was too early to assess the performance of the Union government adding that the Modi Government must be given some time to perform. He said that Punjab would be immensely benefitted from the current regime of the NDA government.

The Chief Minister further said that the state government was making all out efforts for wiping out the drug abuse from the state. He said that the state government has been able to cut off the supply line of drugs to a lot of extent and now a massive program for detoxifying the drug addicts and their rehabilitation has been embarked to enable them to live a life with dignity and self respect. Mr. Badal said that the state government was constructing 22 rehabilitation centers, which would be operational within four months.

Making a scathing attack on the Congress party, the Chief Minister said that the Congress party should not oppose any move of the centre or state government just for the sake of opposition. Rather, Mr. Badal, advised the Congress party to play the role of a constructive opposition for ensuring the welfare of the country and the state.

The Chief Minister also said that the state government was following a set procedure for felicitating the Sportsmen who have earned laurels for the state in Asian, Commonwealth or Olympic games. He said that besides honoring these sons of the soils with the cash prizes, the state government has also recruited them on key government jobs

Prominent amongst those present on the occasion included Lok Sabha MP Jathedar Ranjit Singh Brahampura, MLAs Bibi Jagir Kaur, Mr. Manjeet Singh Manna, Mr. Baljeet Singh Jalal Usma, and Special Principal Secretary of the Chief Minister Mr. Ajoy Sharma.

CM ASSURES FULSOME SUPPORT AND COOPERATION TO DISTRESSED FAMILIES OF YOUTH STUCK IN IRAQ

STATE GOVERNMENT IN CONSTANT TOUCH WITH GOI FOR ENSURING SECURE AND PROMPT RELEASE OF PUNJABIS

MEETS A DELEGATION OF FAMILIES OF YOUTH AT BABA BAKALA

Baba Bakala (Amritsar), August 10-

Assuring fulsome support and cooperation to the distressed families of the youth stuck in strife torn Iraq, the Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today said that the state government was constantly in touch with the Government of India (GoI) to ensure safe and prompt release of the sons of the soil.

Interacting with a delegation of family members of such youth, who met him at the sidelines of the political conference here today, the Chief Minister said that he was personally keeping a close liaison with the Union Government and the officers of the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) to ensure safe and prompt return of every Punjabi stuck up in strife torn Iraq. Expressing satisfaction over the efforts made by the Union Government in this regard, he exhorted the distressed families to have faith on the Government of India (GoI), which was not leaving any stone unturned for safely evacuating every single Indian from Iraq. Mr. Badal also assured them that on its part the state government was making strenuous efforts to expedite the process for release of next of their kin, who were trapped in Iraqi civil war.

The Chief Minister further said that he had been regularly taking up the matter with the Union External Affairs Minister Mrs. Sushma Swaraj, who had informed him that the GoI was exploiting all the diplomatic channels for ensuring the early release of all the Punjabis trapped in Iraq. Likewise, he said that the Union government has assured him that it would make sure that every Indian returns back to his home safely irrespective of the fact that whether he possesses the relevant immigration documents or not. “Both the Centre and the state government are duty bound to bail out all the panic stricken families from the crisis and we are leaving no stone unturned for this cause” added Mr. Badal.

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