PUNJAB GOVERNMENT WOULD SOON COME UP WITH A POLICY ON MERCHANT POWER PLANTS

Chandigarh, July 20, 2009

In a bid to bridge the gap between the demand and supply of power, the Punjab government is contemplating to allow the private players to set up merchant power plants in the state on the pattern of Gujarat model and a comprehensive policy in this regard would be announced shortly.

Disclosing this here today a spokesman of the Chief Minister's office said that the prospective entrepreneur would be asked to sell 20% of the generated power to the state government only at variable cost and the developer would be free to sell the remaining power in the open market. Under the new proposed policy, the private parties interested to set up such merchant power plants would arrange land, coal linkage and under take other formalities of their own. The state government would only facilitate in providing required water for the power generation.

The Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal recently held a detailed meeting with the top brass of Punjab State Electricity Board (PSEB) to chalk out a strategy to set up these power plants in the private sector. He asked the board to devise ways and means to encourage the private entrepreneurs, who had expertise and technical know-how in the field for setting up these merchant power plants in Punjab. The proposed policy on the merchant power plants was aimed at narrowing down the gap between the demand and supply. The Chief Minister directed the Principal Secretary Irrigation and Power Mr. Suresh Kumar and Chairman PSEB Mr. H.S. Brar to ensure a level playing field to all the private key players who intend to set up merchant power plants in the state and hoped such power plants would play a crucial role in augmenting the power supply in the state.

It may be recalled that the state government has already had NRSE policy (Non-Conventional & Renewable Sources of Energy) in Punjab but there was no policy on the setting up of merchant power plants so far and it was a conscious decision on the part of the government to formulate a concrete policy to enable the private investors to set up such power plants.
Moreover, the Government of India had already permitted to set up 100/200 MW merchant power plants under the Central Electricity Act, 2003. Since the captive power plants already existed in the state and the PSEB was getting some power from co-generation plants and now it was the high time to promote the concept of merchant power plants to give a further fillip to the power sector in Punjab, the spokesman added.

PUNJAB CREATES NEW DEVELOPMENT BLOCK ATTARI

CHANDIGARH, JULY 20:
The Punjab Government has notified the creation of new development block to be called Attari block in Amritsar District with immediate effect.

Disclosing this here today a spokesman of the Rural Development and Panchayats Department Punjab said that the new block would comprise of total 77 villages out of which 19 villages belongs to existing block Chogawan, 46 from Verka, 3 from Jandiala Guru and 9 villages from Gandiwind block have been attached with this new block.

He further added that the department has also created new posts of BDPO-cum-Executive Officer, SEPO, Panchayats Officer, besides other supporting staff for the block office.

Punjab Govt. Gave SANCTION TO PURCHASE 100 NEW BUSES- MASTER MOHAN LAL

Chandigarh 20 July, 2009

In order to provide better bus services to the passengers the Punjab Government had given sanction to purchase 100 new buses to add in a fleet of PRTC .

Disclosing this here today Punjab Transport Minister Master Mohan Lal said that Last year PRTC and Punjab Roadways added 202 ordinary and 50 Air conditioned buses in their fleet.

The Minister said during the current finance year 300 ordinary and 60 AC buses would be added in the fleet of the PUNBUS. Beside this the Minister said out dated 600 buses would be replaced by new ones. He said the target set by the transport department would be completed in a stipulated time.

Transport Minister further said that Rs. 15 Lakh would be spent on the repair work of Pathankot bus stand. Traffic rules would also be implemented effectively to check road accident, he added.

LORD RANA CALLS ON CHIEF SECRETARY PUNJAB

Chandigarh July 20, 2009

Lord Diljit Rana, House of Lords (upper house of Parliament UK) and Vice President of Global Organization of People of Indian origin today met the Chief Secretary Punjab Mr. S.C. Agarwal and offered to setup a University at Sanghol in district Fatehgarh Sahib supported by Rana Charitable Trust UK. The Chief Secretary welcomed the proposal and asked Mr. Rana to put up the papers and he assured full cooperation of the Punjab Government in this regard.

While interacting with Lord Rana, the Chief Secretary said that the Punjab Government would launch a luxury train to woo foreign tourists at a cost of Rs. 30 crore. Ministry of Tourism, GoI, Indian Railways and the Punjab Government are jointly funding this project. The state government had already released its entire state share amounting to Rs. 13 crore.
Earlier Mr. Rana met Mr. Hardev Singh Mattewal Advocate

Gerneral in his office and appreciated the efforts of Punjab Government regarding welfare of NRIs . Mr. Rana invited Mr. Mattewal for the forth coming international conference of NRIs to be held in UK under the banner of Global organization of people of Indian origin (GOPIO) for deliberations o NRIs issues.

Lord Rana has also submitted a few proposals like tourism development, education and environmental issues and healthy living, health screening camps, educating the population against alcoholism and drug addiction, higher technical vocational training programmes for women and upliftment of girls providing them quality education. The emphasis of these proposals would be to transform Punjab's economy in the next 15 to 20 years with the joint efforts between the government and the NRIs, said Lord Rana.

The visiting NRI also said that more than two million Punjabis are currently settled abroad doing remarkably well in their respective professions. He urged the Punjab Government to launch a campaign to identify them and to enlist their knowledge and support for initiatives taken by the Government aiming at strengthening economy, tourism and education in Punjab.

Prominent among others who were present in the meeting included Principal Secretary Technical Education & Industrial Training Mrs. Tejinder Kaur, Principal Secretary to Chief Minister Punjab Mr. D.S. Guru, Principal Secretary Higher Education K.B.S Sidhu, Commissioner NRI Affairs Mr. Vikas Partap, Director Rural Development and Punchayats Gurdev Singh Sidhu.

21 CANDIDATES LEFT IN FRAY FOR BYE-ELECTIONS IN PUNJAB.


Chandigarh July 20, 2009

As many as 21 candidates were left in fray today after the withdrawal of nominations for bye-elections of Jalalabad, Kahnuwan and Banur constituencies.

Disclosing this here today an official spokesman of CEO office said that candidates left in fray from Jalalabad constituency included, Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal of Shiromani Akali Dal ,Mr. Hans Raj Josan of Indian National Congress, Mr. Kulwinder Singh of Akali Dal 1920, Mr. Darshan Singh of Janata Dal Secular , Mr. Manoj Kumar of Akhil Bhartiya Rashtravadi. Mr. Amrinder Singh, Mr. Hans Raj, Mr. Kulwinder Singh and Mr. Baldev Singh all were contesting as Independent candidates.

Nomination papers withdrawn by candidates from Jalalabad constituency includes Mrs. Amarjit Kaur of All India Dalit Welfare Congress, Mr. Rajinder Singh S/o Roshan Lal of Shiv Saina Hindostan Party and Mr. Ranjha Singh Independent.

From Kahnuwan Assembly constituency candidates left in fray after included, Mr. Sewa Singh Sekhwan of Shiromani Akali Dal, Mr. Fatehjang Singh Bajwa of Indian National Congress, Mr. Avtar Singh, Mr Surinder Singh and Mr Khushpal Singh all three Independent Candidates.

From Banur Assembly Constituency not even a single candidate has withdrawn his nomination papers. Names of six contesting candidates from Banur Constituency included Jasjit Singh Bunny of SAD, Mr. Deepinder Singh Dhillon of INC, Mr. Madan Gopal Sharma of Rashtriya Krantikai Samajvadi Party, Mr. Ram Ishar Singh Billa of Bahujan Sangharsh Party (K) Mr. Harpreet Singh Sonu,and Mr Gurcharn Singh , Independent.

PUNJAB TO CONVERT MINI SECRETARIAT AS FIRST ENERGY EFFICIENT BUILDING

Chandigarh, July 19:

he building of Punjab Mini Secretariat Chandigarh would be developed as first energy efficient building of Punjab.
Disclosing this here today Mr. Viswajeet Khanna, Secretary Science & Technology said that this building would be projected as example of energy conservation motivating the others to follow. He said that national competitive bids have been floated for converting this building through Energy Conservation Company Route and tenders would be opened on August 10, 2009. He said that the saving in Energy bill every month by adopting energy efficient manner would be shared by company of Punjab Government.

He said that U.T Administration was also being approached to initiate same energy conservation measures in Punjab and Haryana Civil Secretariat, Punjab Vidhan Sabha buildings and Punjab and Haryana High Court Building as these buildings were in the control of U.T. Administration. Similarly all Deputy Commissioners, local Government department had been requested to convert district complexes as Energy efficient buildings at the earliest. Meanwhile all future govt. buildings in the state will be designed in such a way that energy consumption level is minimal as in the case of PEDA’s own Solar Passive Complex.

Giving the detail of this novel scheme he said that the energy consumption in ECBC compliant buildings can be brought down to the tune of 40 to 50%. He said that Energy Audit of 24 industries and important government buildings have indicated a potential annual saving of 11542 MW.

Stressing the need for energy conservation Mr. Khanna said that keeping in view the increasing demand of power the Punjab Government has asked 250 high energy consuming industrial units to become self-sufficient in energy by co-generation.

Mr. Khanna said that the PEDA was constantly sensitizing the major stake holders in the building sector for creating awareness about ECBC. He said that the PEDA was making all out efforts for promoting co-generation, small hydro, biomass and solar power projects.

INDEPENDENCE DAY GIFT FOR RURAL SCHOOL CHILDREN IN PUNJAB-
ALL SCHOOLS TO HAVE MODERN TOILETS AND DRINKING WATER FACILITIES


Chandigarh, July 19

Punjab is all set to achieve a rare milestone by providing modern toilets and drinking water facilities in all schools of the state by coming Independence Day.

According to an official spokesman 1099 schools out of 1200 schools reported without toilet have been already been provided this facility and remaining 101 schools are set to have toilets by 15th, August 2009. Similarly drinking water facility has been provided to 567 schools out of 582 schools reported without drinking water facility and remaining would get this facility by Independence Day. He said that modern Toilet facilities and potable drinking water facilities to the Rural Schools have been provided under the Total Sanitation Campaign (TSC) of the government.

The spokesman said that under this programme Toilets and Urinal facilities are being provided in the Schools @ Rs. 20,000/- per toilet for Boys & Girls each. He said that Water Supply & Sanitation Department has already covered 16 districts in Punjab with Toilet facility in the Rural Schools & a few of the toilets which remain to be constructed in 4 districts of Tarn Taran, Amritsar, Ludhiana & Moga shall also be covered by 15th August 2009.

Giving the details of provision of potable water supply in all the Rural Schools the spokesman said that potable drinking water facility was being extended by providing water to the school linking it to the water supply lines from the existing Rural Water Supply Schemes. The spokesman said that the water supplied was properly disinfected before the supply.
He said that the department had already covered Schools of 18 districts with drinking water facility. The remaining few schools in districts of Hoshiarpur & Muktsar shall also be covered by 15th August 2009.

Punjab Government has earmarked Rs. 10 crore for girl child under "Nanhi Chhan". This was disclosed by Ch. Swarna Ram, Social Security,Welfare of Women and Child Development Minister, Punjab here today.
Minister said that the State Government would deposit Rs. 13,000/- with LIC in favor of every girl born in a poor family. The girl would get staggered payments and scholarship worth Rs.50,000/- during her school years.
He also said that Punjab would also launch LIC sponsored Jan Shree Bima Yojna for rural landless families for providing insurance cover of Rs.75,000/- for accidental death and Rs. 30,000/- for natural death. The premium of Rs. 200/- per annum would be shared equally by the State Government and Government of India.

A meeting of the Principals of Schools & Colleges managed by SGPC,.

Amritsar was held today in the office of the Directorate of Education, 6-Kalgidhar Niwas, Sector-27-B, Chandigarh. About 75 Principals of Schools & Colleges participated in the meeting which was presided over by Jathedar Avtar Singh, President, SGPC, Amritsar.

S. Joginder Singh, Secretary Education, Dr. Gurmohan Singh Walia, Director Education, SGPC and Dr. Madanjit Kaur Sahota, Director, Environment & Women Empowerment, SGPC, attended the meeting.

Inaugurating the meeting Jathedar Avtar Singh informed that a separate Directorate of Environment & Women Empowerment has been created by SGPC to focus on the two most important social issues of female feticide and clean and green environment.

The President exhorted the Principals to create units of Nanhi Chhaan in each & every institution of SGPC and educated and motivate the students to work in their respective institutions for making the campus green and clean and has to sensitize the Public and Non-Students regarding the evil of female feticide.

Welcoming the delegates and the President SGPC Dr. Gurmohan Singh Walia, Director Education asked the College Principals to take up these two issues as a mission and do everything possible to make it a mass movement.

The project of Nanhi Chhaan is a Brain Child of Sardarni Harsimrat Kaur Badal, M.P., who has pledged to save the nation from the menace of female feticide & barren like situation because of cutting of trees in the disguise of progress. SGPC has started Boota Parshad from Sri Darbar Sahib, Amritsar, Sri Damdama Sahib, Sri Fatehgarh Sahib & Sri Anandpur Sahib. They are going to raise five nursuries at all the important and historical places of sikhism.

Dr. Sahota informed the Principals about raising nurseries in all institutions and involve NGO'S and Public at large. S. Joginder Singh, Secy. Education, SGPC assured to extend help by SGPC making this mission is success not only in the education institution of SGPC but also in Gurdwaras and other Public Places.

Khangura seeks action against SAD for influencing voters

LUDHIANA, July 17:

Qila Raipur MLA, Jassi Khangura today sought action against the ruling Shiromani Akali Dal for influencing voters in three assembly segments of Jallalabad, Kanuhan and Banur by providing them round the clock electricity while the rest of Punjab is reeling under a severe power crisis.

In a representation to the Chief Election Commissioner of India, Khangura pointed out that providing round the clock electricity to the people of three assembly segments which are going to the polls on August 3, while rest of Punjab remains shut down, is a special favour tantamount to electoral malpractice and a violation of the election code of conduct under the People’s Representation Act.

Khangura maintained the ruling SAD was desperate to get Sukhbir Badal elected from Jallalabad by any means saying “Continuing a long family tradition of influencing the electorate, the CM Punjab now offers electricity for votes in the 3 constituencies where bye elections are taking place”.

The Qila Raipur MLA observed “reinforcing his determination to get his son elected, it is not surprising that long suffering electricity consumers, including farmers, residents and industrialists, are now being lavished with near uninterrupted supply to create a “feel good” factor.”

He asserted that clearly the Chief Minister feels the usual large cash, liquor and poppy husk inducements are not sufficient to mask the failing policies of this deceitful government.

Khangura said, “whilst the rest of Punjab suffers under stifling conditions and more and more farmers resort to desperate measures, including suicides, this Government now feels that its obligations are merely restricted to the 3 constituencies and to hell with the other 114”.

The Congress MLA observed “this warrants an investigation by the Election Commission to establish whether the electricity supply to these 3 constituencies is atypical. Once confirmed the EC should mandate that there should be no preference provided to these constituencies in the supply of electricity”. Khangura added “The PSEB should ensure that all 117 Assembly Constituencies of Punjab should be treated equally in the supply of electricity”.

Jassi Khangura MLA
Halqa Qila Raipur, Punjab

PUNJAB CM ASKS FIELD OFFICERS TO FIX TIME SCHEDULE FOR MEETING GENERAL PUBLIC
CHANDIGARH JULY 17, 2009

To redress the grievances of the people promptly, the Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today asked all the field officers especially the Deputy Commissioners and Commissioners to be available in their offices on a fixed time schedule for atleast three days in a week to have direct interface with the general public.

Disclosing this here today a spokesman of the Chief Minister’s office said that the Chief Minister had observed during his Sangat Darshan Programmes in the field that most of the complaints were directly related to the field officers of various departments which could be easily resolved at the level of deputy commissioners forthwith. This move would not only bring in efficiency in the public delivery system but also instill confidence in the administration, besides improving the grievances redress mechanism by saving lot of time and energy. He underscored the need to evolve an action-oriented strategy for the effective redressal of grievances at cutting edge level. He also directed the officers to come out with new proposals for the quick redressal of grievances and the qualitative improvement of public utility services to improve the lot of under privileged sections of the society.

Making the administration far more responsive to the felt needs of the masses, the Chief Minister also asked the officers to maintain decorum and punctuality in offices to win over their confidence and should be available in their offices on all working days. He also asked them to be courteous and considerate while attending to the grievances of common people.
Mr. Badal also directed the officers to pay full respect and regard to the elected representatives in observance of democratic norm, whenever they visit in connection to seek any information or official work and ensure timely compliance. He asked the officers to perform their duty with utmost dedication, humility and sincerity to serve the public.

PUNJAB GOVT. RELEASES RS. 392 CRORE TO VARIOUS MC'S FOR WATER SUPPLY AND SEWERAGE WORKS - KALIA

Chandigarh, July 17:
Punjab Government has released Rs.392 crore to various Municipal Committees for water supply and sewerage works which were under progress and sum of Rs. 93 crore would be released in the current year for this purpose.

Disclosing this here today,Mr. Manoranjan Kalia, Local Government, Industry and Commerce Minister Punjab said that an agreement has already been signed with Japan International Corporation Agency for a loan of Rs. 360 crore for Sewerage and Sewerage Treatment Plants in the holy city of Amritsar. Mr. Kalia said the State Government has formulated a comprehensive policy prescribing External Development Charges ( EDC ), License / Permission Fee and Change of Land Use (CLU) charges, to Generate Sufficient revenue to provide the Ultra Modern Urban Infrastructure. The revenue received on account of CLU by the State Government during last two years was Rs. 130 crore. New Town Planning Norms conforming to international standard have been laid for the development of towns. He further said that a list of 30 towns has been drawn up for the preparation of Master plans. Master plans of Ludhiana, SAS Nagar and Mullanpur has already been notified. The Local Planning Areas for 42 Towns/ Cities have already been notified.

Giving more details Mr. Kalia said a number of measures have been taken up for promoting construction of houses for the poor. The purchase of land for this purpose have been exempted from stamp duty, registration fee, CLU, EDC and License fee. In all master plans, 10% of the residential zones would be earmarked for housing for the poor, he added.

Rs. 9.85 Crore to Renovate Museum

Chandigarh, July 17, 2009

The Punjab State has rich cultural history which could be seen and experienced through relics and archeological artifacts in museums. The state Government has taken all necessary steps to renovate and modernize these museums. Disclosing this here today Mr. Hira Singh Gabari, Tourism and Cultural Affairs Minister Punjab said that the Punjab has well known cultural destinations, archeological museums and relics which were preserved and displayed for the coming generations. Besides this visitors and traders have come all over the World to have a optimum vision of these museums.

Giving more details Mr. Gabaria said that the State Government would spent Rs. 9.85 crore for the renovation and preservation of four museums Sanghol, Sheeshmahal Patiala, Samar Palace Amritsar and Museum of Ferozashah. He further clarified that out of this Rs. 1.40 crore would be spent on Archeological Museum Sanghol, Rs. 3.14 on Sheesh Mahal Patiala, Rs. 2.56 crore for Samar Palace Amritsar and Rs. 2.75 on these museums. Several consultants of the relevant field were being involved in this renovation Consultants has already presented their opinion reports on CD's. There work would be analyzed and appropriate action would be taken soon.

The entrance examination for admission to the Rashtriya Indian Military College ( RIMC ), Dehradun for July 2010 term would be conducted here at Lala Lajpat Rai Bhawan (Sector-15) on 1st & 2nd December , 2009.

Disclosing this here today a spokesman of the Directorate Sainik Welfare, Punjab informed that only boys were eligible to apply for the admission. Candidates appearing for the test should not be born earlier than 2nd July, 1997 and not later than 1st January, 1999 . They should either be studying in Class VII or passed Class VII from any recognized school at the time of admission to the RIMC. Selected candidates will be given admission in Class-VIII. The written part of the examination would consist of three papers namely, English, Mathematics & General Knowledge and the viva-voce test would be held for only those candidates who qualify in the written exam and the date for the viva voce test has been fixed as on 6 April, 2010 (Tuesday).

He informed that the copies of application forms, prospectus and set of old question papers could be obtained from the Commandant, RIMC, Dehradun on payment of Rs.250/- through demand draft in favour of Commandant, RIMC, Dehradun payable at SBI Tel Bhavan (Code No.1576) Dehradun. Applications in duplicate in prescribed form should be accompanied by a bank draft for Rs.50/-(Rs.5/- in case of Scheduled Caste and scheduled tribe) in favour of Commandant, RIMC, Dehradun payable at SBI Tel Bhavan (Code No.1576) Dehradun alongwith three passport size photographs of the candidate. Besides this, the candidate should furnish a certificate of age in duplicate from municipal birth register.

He further said that the applications in duplicate duly completed must reach here at Directorate Sainik Welfare, Punjab before 30-9-2009. Application received after 30-9-2009 will not be entertained.

STATE AND DISTRICT LEVEL MONITORING COMMITTEES SETUP TO CONTROL VECTOR BORNE DISEASES IN PUNJAB

Chandigarh, July 17, 2009

The Punjab Government has constituted the State Level Monitoring Committee and District Level Monitoring Committees to under take the steps taken to control vector born and water borne diseases in the State.
Disclosing this here today a spokesman of the Punjab Government said that the Chief Secretary of Punjab would be the Chairman of the State Level Monitoring Committee while Principal Secretary Finance, Director, Rural Development and Panchyats, Director Local Government, Chief Engineer Water Supply and Sanitation and Deputy Director Malaria would be the members and Director Health ad Family Welfare would be the Member Secretary.

The Deputy Commissioner of the District would be the Chairman for the district level monitoring committee with Commissioner Municipal Corporation Executive Officer of Municipal Councils in the Distric, Chairman Zila Parishad, Suptd. Engineer Water Supply and Sanitation , District Health Officer as members and Civil Surgeon of the District would be the member secretary.

The State Level Monitoring Committee would get a survey of each municipal area conducted and to set up solid waste management / Sewerage Treatment Plants for disposal / Treatment of the waste material/ Garbage / Sewerage Water. The Committee would formulate a scheme and devise mechanism for implementation for sanitation, cleanliness and supply of portable water to the rural areas. The Committee would ensure the availability of the sufficient funds to health department for taking preventive measures during the rainy season or the period which is prone to the out break of diseases like diarrhea , malaria , cholera etc. and ensure adequate supply of medicines indoor and outdoor facilities in the civil and general hospitals.

The spokesman further said that the district level monitoring committee would suitably identify preferably low lying area which should at least be 2 Km away from the residential areas to dump the waste material /garbage till the solid waste management / sewerage plants are setup. The Committee would also identify the spots / places where water keeps on accumulating during the rainy season or other wise and have become a breeding ground for mosquitoes.

The committee would also take immediate steps to fill up the low lying areas and dry up the same by canalising the stagnated water into drains etc. followed by spray of methyl powder or other disinfectants. The committee would complete the entire exercise within 4 months and would send the compliance report to the state level monitoring committee.

PUNJAB GOVERNMENT EXTENDS THE LAST DATE OF GENERAL TRANSFERS TILL AUGUST 31
Chandigarh July 16:

The Punjab Government today extended the last date of general transfers from August 10 to August 31, 2009.
Disclosing this here today a spokesman of the Chief Minister's Office said that this decision had been taken by the government in view of the model of conduct imposed in five districts S.A.S Nagar (Mohali) Fatehgarh Sahib, Patiala, Gurdaspur and Ferozepur in wake of the bye-elections of three assembly constituencies of Banur, Kahnuwan and Jalalabad.

PUNJAB CM REVIEWS PROGRESS OF WB ROAD PROJECT
OF RS.1500 CRORE

CHANDIGARH JULY 16:

Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today reviewed the progress of the World Bank aided Punjab State Road Sector Project (PSRSP), the largest ever road sector project in the state involving a massive investment of Rs.1500 crore (USD 333 million Dollars) and asked the state PWD (B&R) department to ensure quality as per international standards and its timely completion positively by June 2012.

Briefing the Chief Minister about the project, Secretary PWD (B&R) Kulbir Singh said that the project had been divided in to two phases, first covering 711 KM at a cost of Rs.690 crore and the second phase would cover network management of about 950 KM roads to be taken under Output and Performance Based Road Contracting (OPRC) in 3 networks spread across Punjab, one each in Majha, Malwa and Doaba region. The consultancy process was in progress and physical works were likely to begin by August 2010 on the ground.

The first phase included 152 Km of up-gradation of Ludhiana-Malerkotla-Sangrur road, Kharar-Banur-Tepla road, Attari-Chabal-Tarn Taran road at a cost of Rs.380 crore. The Attari-Chabal-Tarn Taran road was nearly completion at the cost of Rs.45 crore as 99% work had already been completed besides 31% and 38% work had been executed on Rs.225 crore Ludhiana-Malerkotla-Sangrur road and Rs.108 crore Kharar-Banur-Tepla road respectively as on May 31, 2009. Likewise, 95% work on rehabilitation of 205 KM of roads at a cost of Rs.250 crore had been completed on Ferozepur-Zira-Dharamkot, Patiala-Sirhind, Chandigarh-Landran-Chunni-Sirhind, Kapurthala-Tarn Taran and Phillaur-Nagar-Rahon till May 31, 2009. Besides this 345 Km of periodic maintenance on different works at a cost of Rs.60 crore had also been successfully completed.

It may be recalled this project was commenced on April, 2007 and it is likely to be completed in June, 2012. The total expenditure till 31st May 2009 on the first phase is Rs.536 crore against the receipt of Rs.509 crore of which Rs.352 crore has been received by the World Bank and Rs.157 crore from the state government.

PUNJAB CM RECASTS PUNJAB POLLUTION CONTROL BOARD
CHANDIGARH JULY 16:

In accordance with the provisions of the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974 and the Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981, the Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today reconstituted the Punjab Pollution Control Board by giving in principle approval for the nomination of ten members to make it far more broad based and result oriented.

Disclosing this here today a spokesman of the Chief Minister’s Office said that Secretary Science, Technology & Environment or his representative not below the rank of Joint Secretary, Director Industries & Commerce, Chief Engineer Canals, Chief Engineer Drainage and Chief Town Planner would be the five official members.
The spokesman further said that another five members would represent the Local authority including Director Local Bodies, Mayor Municipal Corporation Amritsar, Mayor Municipal Corporation Ludhiana, Chairman Zila Parishad Muktsar and Chairman Zila Parishad Ludhiana. Likewise, two members from state owned corporations, companies including Managing Director Punjab Water Supply & Sewerage Board and Programme Director, State Programme management, Rural Water Supply, World Bank Mission Mohali.

Three non-official members from the field of agriculture, fishery, trade or any other vocation had been nominated namely Sant Balbir Singh Seechewal of Nirmal Kutia Seechewal (Jalandhar), Mr. SP Oswal, Chairman & MD of Vardhman Group of Industries Ludhiana and Mr. Lalit Sharma of M/s. K.Sharma & Sons from Ludhiana.

Chandigarh July 16:

Government of Punjab through its Nodal Agency Punjab State Industrial Export Corporation (PSIEC) has set up an “E-Resource” portal at a cost of Rs.10.00 lacs for one year the product called “Dialog PRO-Consulting Module” through Crosstream Consulting Pvt. Ltd., Mumbai, an authorized agency of Thomson Science USA, which would provide access to the information needs of the small and medium scale exporters in the State of Punjab free of cost. The module would be having databases such as ABI inform, Investext, claims/ US patents, Dialog Newsroom, Business & Industry, Gale group prompt, Gale group trade & industry database, Global reporter, Computer news full text, Tectrends, Business & , Management practices, Gale group management contents, Gale group business, Asian business intelligence reports, Beverage marketing research reports, Espicom reports, Frost & Sullivan market engineering, Frost & Sullivan market intelligence ,EIU market research ,Gale group new product announcements, Tablebase, D&B- international dun's market identifiers, D&B - dun's market identifiers etc.

Mr. Kalia further said that users could boast on-line access to the international databases on various subjects. They would provide market intelligence reports, credit rating of International Buyers, Importer/Exporters addresses, every aspect of business including company histories, competitive intelligence, new product development, articles in prominent accounting, taxation, financial management publications, geographic research reports, patents issued by the US Patent and Trademark Office since 1950, information with facts, figures and key events dealing with public and private companies, market products, global news source, relevant information about the computers, emerging technologies, information dealing with the processes, methods and strategies of managing a business, current information on business practices, reports published by Asian Business Intelligence, Ltd contains the complete text of detailed local reports focusing on the developing markets, Beverage marketing research reports, Pharmaceutical and Medical company profiles, International telecom company intelligence, in-depth analyses and forecasts of market trends, complete reports on European and Asian markets, company directory information etc which are generally not available in any other portal.

Mr. Kalia said workshops were organized in Mohali, Jalandhar and Ludhiana to create awareness among the exporters of the state by giving presentation by the representative of the agency to the representatives of the Industrial Associations and it was found very useful by the exporters. However, the common refrain was that the cost incurred for obtaining the information was prohibitive. To overcome this problem, the Government of Punjab through its agency M/s Punjab Small Industries and Export Corporation has decided to meet the costs for a period of one year. The access to this data bases will be through unique passwords provided by PSIEC.

Since the number of passwords allowed for accessing the portal is limited to 25, the final selection of 24 Associations for providing passwords was made after getting lists of various Associations of Punjab from GM, DICs and short listed after telephonic discussions with them and the Prominent Industrialists of Ludhiana and Jalandhar. The same was got approved from Govt. of Punjab, Department of Industries & Commerce. The main Associations are Engineering Exporters Association of India, Chamber of Industrial & Commercial Undertakings, Wool & Woollen Export Promotion Council, Pb.State Agricultural Impt. Mfrs.Association, Northern India Exports Organization, Ludhiana Sewing Machine Inds. Association, United Cycle & Parts Mfg. Association, Ludhiana Motor Parts Mfrs. Association, Fasteners Mfrs.Association of India, The Sports Goods Manufacturers Association, Ludhiana Hand Tools Association, Punjab Rice Millers Mfrs./ Exporters Associations, Hand Tools Mfrg. Association, etc.

FEMALE BUFFALO CALFS FOR SCHEDULED CASTES AND LAND LESS LABURERS – RANIKE

Chandigarh 16 July:

Keeping in view to uplift the living standard of scheduled cases and landless laburers in the State, the Punjab Government has launched a special scheme under which three female buffalos calfs would be given to 300 beneficiary, on which Rs. 30 Lakh would be spend. Announcing this here today Mr. Gulzar Singh Ranika, Animal Husbandry and Dairy Development Minister Punjab said that with this welfare step the beneficiaries would raise their economic standard, by selling the milk.
Mr. Ranika said the Animal Husbandry and Dairy Development Department would purchase female buffalo calf which would cost between Rs. 2000 to Rs. 2500 per calf. The department has setup 187 units to provide free medicines to these buffalo calfs to protect them from any diseases. Punjab Government would provide these calfs to families of scheduled casts living in rural areas. He said the beneficiaries have both the options, on becoming full grown buffalos the beneficiary were allowed to sell the milk or sold the buffalo in the market.

Mr. Ranika said the department would purchase these female buffalo calfs from the near by dairy farm of the city, because from these dairy farms. female buffalo calfs of high bread would be available. He appealed to need beneficiaries to contact the nearest Animal Husbandry department to get more details regarding this scheme.

Chandigarh, July 16:
The Irrigation Department, Punjab has announced the Rotational Programme for irrigation for the current Kharif Season through Canal water from 19-7-2009 to 26-7-2009. The channels of Sirhind Canal System would run on the priority basis from Abohar Branch, Patiala feeder, Bist Doab Canal Sidhwan Branch and Bathinda Branch respectively.
Disclosing this here today a spokesman of the irrigation department said that Ghaggar link and its off taking channels i.e. Ghaggar Branch and Patiala Minor in Group 'B' being in the first preference will run to their indent. Balance water supplies available will be utilized in direct distributaries of Bhakra Main Line in group 'A' respectively.

The spokesman further said that Abohar Branch off-taking from Sirhind Feeder and distributries in Group "B" being in the First preference will run to their ident. Balance water supplies available would be utilised in direct distributaries of Group 'A'.
The spokesman also said that the channels off taking from upper Bari Doab Canal i.e. Lahore Branch with its distributaries being in the first Preference would run to their indent .Balance water supplies water available would be utilised in Main Branch Lower, Kasur Branch Lower, Sabraon Branch with their distributaries respectively.

Chandigarh July 16:

Medical Education and Research, Forest & Wild Life, Parliamentary Affairs and Labour and Employment Minister Punjab Sh. Tikshan Sood held a meeting with Mr. Martin Mucha, representative of Ministry of Education, Austria and coordinator for its Asia projects. Mr. Martin explained that the Government of Austria had been helping in improving the education systems of developing countries though its initiative of setting up of organization called Eurasia Pacific Uninet which was rendering lot of fellowships and scholarships to outstanding and brilliant students from China, Mangolia, India, Pakistan and other south Asian countries. He explained that although Austria was a small country and could not contribute a large amount for this purpose but a substantial amount of funds have been placed in the hands of the ministry for fellowships to outstanding and brilliant students from various countries for study to some of the worlds centres of excellence located in Austria such as university of Vienna, Vienna Medical School is known for the department of Ophthalmology and Trauma Surgeries. Similarly, the University medical school of Innsbruck is a centre of excellence for study in protoeomics and biotechnology. Looking at the great progress made in this field in China the Government of Austria is keen to carry out these activities in India as well. He also explained that Austria was conducting an annual conference on Proteomics in Seefeld every year which is attended by world renowned scientists and Noble prize winners. The Hon’ble Minister assured Mr. Martin that his department would be keen to explore every avenues of mutual collaboration and benefit to avail these opportunities. Mr. Martin also presented the report of Eurasia Pacific Uninet regarding its activities all over the world for 2008 to the Hon’ble Minister. Shri Sud said that collaboration will help outstanding and brilliant students and faculty members from the various medical institutions in the State to update their skills and get opportunity for exposure to the latest technology available world wide, alongwith learning the new techniques in the various fields of medicine and research.

The Six- Member delegation of the National Commission for Schedule Castes headed by its Chairman Mr. Buta Singh, today reviewed various ongoing schemes and programmes initiated by the Punjab government to safeguard the interests of the scheduled castes in the state. He asked the administrative secretaries of the departments concerned to closely monitor such schemes and ensure their proper implementation. The Chairmen along with the members of the Commission discussed at length the problems being faced by the scheduled castes in Punjab with the chief secretary Mr. S.C Agarwal and senior officers of various departments of the state..

The Chief Secretary Punjab Mr. Agarwal assured the visiting delegation that the state government would work as per the directions and guidelines of the commission.

The commission consists of Prof. N.M Kambely, Vice Chairman; Smt. Satya Behan, Sh Mohindra Bodh, Sh. Maritunje Naik (all members) and Sh. T. Thethin, Joint Secretary.

Mr. Naranjan Singh Chairman Punjab Commission for SC, Mr.A.R.Talwar, Mr. Satish Chandra, Mr. Suresh Kumar, Mr.T. R.. Sarangal, Mr. K.B.S.Sidhu, Ms. Rakhee Gupta Bhandari, Ms. Anjali Bhawra- all Principal Secretaries and Mr. P.S.Gill D.G.P. Punjab were also present in the meeting.

Chandigarh July 16:

A meeting under the Chairmanship of Parliamentary Affairs, Medical Education and Research, Forests & Wild Life and Labour Minister, Mr. Tikshan Sud was held with the President of the Punjab Medical Council.

Issues relating to amendments in the outdated Punjab Medical Registration Act, 1916, many clauses of which have become redundant, were discussed in this meeting,. It was decided in principle that the proposed amendments should be carried out, keeping in view the changed circumstances and their relevance today. The memorandum given by the Indian Medical Association (I.M.A.) Punjab to the minister was also discussed including issues regarding the increase the number of members of Punjab Medical Council and requisite changes in the election process. The elections to the Punjab Medical Council are due soon.

Meeting was attended by Mrs. Anjali Bhawra, Secretary Medical Education & Research, Dr. Manmohan Singh, MD, DM, President, Punjab Medical Council, Dr. P.P.S. Coonar, Registrar, Punjab Medical Council-cum-Joint Director Research & Medical Education, Dr. Yash Sharma, President, I.M.A. Punjab and Dr. R.S. Parmar, President Elect, I.M.A Punjab

The Minister, Mr. Tikshan Sud approved the increase in numbers of elected members of the Council to Ten, keeping in mind the increase in number of doctors on the active medical register of the Council over the years. The minister also endorsed the decision of the Council to permit doctors registered with councils of other states to get additional registration with the Punjab Medical Council on payment of requisite fee. This had become necessary as some eminent and outstanding doctors are practicing in more than one state. Mr. Sud directed that instructions be circulated to Police, Consumer Forums and all the concerned departments to follow the guidelines of the Hon'ble Supreme Court issued in its judgement in ‘Jacob Mathew case’ in cases of medical negligence against doctors. This judgement specifies the need for setting up of State level Committees for inquiring into cases of negligence by doctors and cases against negligent doctors will only be filed after ascertaining the views of this committee. All these measures will go a long way to protect the doctor community from facing harassment due to false cases of negligence filed against them.

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