BADAL GIVES NOD TO WAIVE OFF CONDITION OF AGE LIMIT FOR PROMOTION OF ANGANWARI WORKERS 

CHANDIGARH JANUARY 16:

      Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today gave in principle approval to waive off the condition of age limit of 45 years for promotion of Anganwari workers to Anganwari supervisors. 

      A decision to this effect was taken by the Chief Minister in a meeting with the delegation of Punjab Anganwari Employees Union (CITU) led by its President Ms. Usha Rani this afternoon here at Punjab Bhawan. 

      Responding to the issues raised by the delegation, the Chief Minister said that with the decision to waive off the condition of the age of 45 years had pave a way for promotion of anganwari workers to supervisors against 300 vacant posts in the department of Social Security, Development of Women & Children.  The Chief Minister also asked the Finance department to examine their demand to grant an annual increment of Rs.100 on the pattern of Haryana in addition to their fixed monthly honorarium of Rs.2100 paid to the anganwari workers, of which Rs.600 was paid by the state government and Rs.1500 by the Centre. 

      Referring to their another demand to give special honorarium for the additional duties performed by anganwari workers, the Chief Minister asked the Social Security department to make payment for the same where there was a provision of funds for such honorarium against the specified duties/jobs. Mr. Badal however, said no such honorarium was required to be paid for the routine duties performed by anganwari workers for which the state government was already paying to them Rs.600 per month. 

      Prominent amongst others who were present in the meeting included Social Security, Development & Women Children Minister Ch. Swarna Ram, Principal Secretary Social Security Mr. Mandeep Singh Sandhu, Director Social Security Mr. Dharam Dutt Ternach, Joint Director and Deputy Director Social Security Mr. Nachattar Singh and Mr. Rajnish Kumar.    The delegation of Anganwari Union also comprised General Secretary Ms. Harjit Kaur, Ms. Bhinder Kaur, Ms. Amritpal Kaur and Ms.Krishana Devi.

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

PUNJAB TO OFFER LOANS UPTO RS. 10 LAC TO UNEMPLOYED SCHEDULED CASTE YOUTH FOR SELF EMPLOYMENT

Chandigarh, January 16: Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal, Deputy Chief Minister today underlined the need for evolving institutionalized mechanism to monitor that benefit of different welfare schemes for SCs and BCs reach the target population.

               Speaking after releasing an information booklet published by Punjab Scheduled Caste Land Development and Finance Corporation here today, Mr. Sukhbir Badal said that Punjab government was releasing hundreds of crore grant under different schemes for the welfare of Scheduled Caste population constituting over 33% of state’s population and it was imperative to ensure that these funds benefit the target population.

               Mr. Badal informed that Corporation has been empowered to sanction loan to SC population from Rs. 1 lac to Rs. 10 lac @ 8% concessional interest, to enable them to start their self employment ventures. Moreover, deserving SC students are also offered education loan up to Rs. 5 lac for joining various professional courses.

Criticising the previous government for ignoring the interests of SC population, Mr. Badal said that Congress government did not released any seed money to the Corporation, depriving SC population of loan facility. He said that our government released Rs. % crore to put loaning process on fast track.

Thanking the Deputy Chief Minister for getting the seed money released, Mr. Pawan Kumar Tinu Chairman of the Corporation Said that he was streamlining the functioning of the Corporation, to expedite loan sanctioning and disbursal process. Mr. T.R Sarangal Secretary, Social Welfare was also present on the occasion. 
 --------------
 
Eight special secretaries promoted

Chandigarh, January 16:

      The Punjab Government on Thursday ordered the promotion of eight special secretaries to the rank of secretary. Those promoted are V.K.Sharma, Vikas Pratap, Alok Shekhar, D.K.Tewari, M.Balamurgan, Tejveer Singh, Dr Arvinder Singh and D. S. Grewal.

      A release here said three of the promoted officers- Alok Shekhar, J.M. Balamurgan and Tejveer Singh who were on central deputation had been given Performa promotion. They would get the benefit of promotion on actual basis after rejoining the state cadre on their return or completion of central deputation.

------------------------ 

Dhindsa describes congress leader’s comments on Bibi Badal’s langar initiative unfortunate 

Chandigarh, January 16 : SAD Secretary General and former union Minister S. Sukhdev Singh Dhindsa has severely criticized the comments made by Senior congress leader Jagmeet Singh Brar against Bibi Surinder Kaur Badal and the Panthic services rendered by her, terming the outburst of the congress leader as most unfortunate and an utterance of a frustrated person. 

In a statement released from party office here, he said that statement made by Mr. Brar has shown congress leaders don’t have any political decency .He said that constructive  critisizm is always welcome in politics but the use of cheap language and making personal derogatory remarks against the family members of opponents are totally unjustified. 

      SAD leader questioned that whether motivation of people for participation in the Langar sewa is a sin ? If not, then instead of getting encouraged how can such cheap comments could be justified ? He said that the action of  congress leaders is not showing their mental bankcrupsy but also has hurt the religious sentiments of the people.

S.Dhindsa pointed out that such selfless services could not be mingled with petty politics being played by the congress leaders.He reminded them that the basic spirit behind langar was to feed the people cutting across their caste, religion or any other affiliation. He said that another unfortunate fact is the these comments have been made at that pious and historic land of those fourty beloved ones of the Guru Gobind Singh ji who have made supreme sacrificewhere lakhs of people thronged to pay their obeisance seeking Guru blessing for the service of humanity.. 

      Lauding the services of Bibi Surinder Kaur Badal for encouraging thousand of people to personally participate in langar sewa, Mr. Dhindsa said that with this noble initiative more and more youth were getting involved in this unique community service.He advised congress leaders to take a que from such selfless service being undertaken by Bibi Badal and desist from making comments for their political purpose. 

S. Dhindsa expressed confidence that in future congress leaders would restrain themselves from making uncalled, unwarranted and personal comments just to assert their presence on their party’s political stage.

 

Sukhbir Singh Badal appoints 21 Distt observers to strengthen party

  Chandigarh, January 16 : Shiromani Akali Dal President and Deputy Chief Minister S. Sukhbir Singh Badal has appointed observers for different districts in the state to strengthen the party organization at grass root level. These observers would immediately start their work to strengthen party and implement programmes of the party.  

      In a statement released from party office party spokesman and Secretary Dr. Daljit Singh Cheema said that 21 senior leaders of the party have been appointed observers. He said that list of observers for the states outside Punjab would be released afterwards.

  Those appointed include Jathedar Tota Singh (Gurdaspur), Dr. Upinderjit Kaur (Amritsar rural and urban), Sh. Harish Rai Dhanda (Jalandhar urban), Maheshinder Singh Grewal (Jalandhar rural), Sucha Singh Langah (Kapurthala), Charanjit Singh Atwal (Nawanshehr), Ajaib SinghMukhmailpur (Hoshiarpur), Bikram Singh Majithia (Ludhiana), Sikander Singh Maluka (Patiala), Sewa Singh Sekhwan (Sangrur), Sarwan Singh Phillaur (Barnala), Prof. Kirpal Singh Badungar (Moga), Dr. Rattan Singh Ajanal (Faridkot),Bibi Jagir Kaur (Bathinda), Surjit Singh Rakhra (Mukatsar), Gulzar Singh Ranike (Mansa), Sharanjit Singh Dhillon (Ferozepur), Jathedar Ajit Singh Kohar (Fatehgarh Sahib), Janmeja Singh Sekhon (Ropar) and  Jathedar Hira.Singh Gabria (SAS Nagar).  
 

PUNJAB TO LAUNCH RECRUITMENT DRIVE IN MILKFED

  Chandigarh, January 15:

            In a bid to revamp Milkfed the Punjab Government gave a green signal to fill up 49 posts of different categories in the Milkfed and Milk Unions attached to it.

            Disclosing this here today a spokesman of  the Chief Minister's office informed that as per the directions of the Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal,  Milkfed would soon recruit two Managers (Procurement & Inputs), one Manager each for Quality Control, Production and Marketing. Besides three Deputy Managers (Marketing), two Deputy Managers (Accounts), five Deputy Managers (Quality Control), 8 Deputy Managers (Production) and two Deputy Managers (Engineering).

            The spokesman further informed that posts of two Foreman Electrical, one Foreman Mechanical, nine Dairy Assistants, two Mechanics Electrical, five chemists, two Laboratory Assistants, one Junior Mechanical General and two Operators (Public Health) would also be filled in the Milkfed.

  

 CANADIAN MP ASKS PUNJAB GOVERNMENT TO TIE UP WITH BRITISH COLUMBIA'S MINISTRY OF EDUCATION FOR REVAMPING SCHOOL EDUCATION

  CHANDIGARH JANUARY 15:  

            Member Parliament from British Columbia (Canada) Mr. Ujjal Dosanjh today assured the Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal to send a joint delegation of eminent Punjabi and Canadian teachers to enable our teachers to upgrade their skills of teaching English on one hand and revamping the syllabi to make it globally acceptable on the other. 

               Mr. Dosanjh today paid a courtesy call to the Chief Minister here at latter’s residence this morning.  He informed Mr. Badal that his wife Mrs. Raminder Dosanjh a teacher by profession had a long experience, who had served in prestigious educational institutions in British Columbia in different capacities, could also give useful inputs to revamp the school curriculum in Punjab to make it more result oriented and need based.  He also offered the Punjab government to make tie ups with the British Columbia's Ministry of Education which had achieved excellence and higher goals in the field of school education.  Mr. Dosanjh also informed the Chief Minister that a group of British Columbia based eminent Punjabi educationists had already set up an internationally acclaimed school to impart education to the students here at Mohali according to the curriculum of British Columbia.   

           Reciprocating the gesture of extending support and cooperation by Mr. Dosanjh, the Chief Minister expressed his gratitude for improving the standard of education in Punjab.  He also impressed upon Mr. Dosanjh to send a delegation of young Canadian teachers on special teaching assignments for short duration of 2-3 months under youth exchange programme.  During the interaction with Mr. Dosanjh, the Chief Minister also talked to his wife Mrs. Raminder Dosanjh on telephone who assured the Chief Minister to soon visit the state to take stock of the entire education scenario so that she could suggest some tangible improvements to be made in the education system.  

       The Chief Minister was accompanied by his Principal Secretary Mr. DS Guru.    

  

4 CHAIRMEN, 2 VICE CHAIRMEN AND 35 MEMBERS NOMINATED IN MARKET COMMITTEES OF ANANDPUR SAHIB, BHOOCHO,DASUYA, PATHANKOT AND SARHIND

  CHANDIGARH January 15:

     The Punjab Government today nominated 4 Chairmen, 2 Vice Chairmen and 35 members in the Market Committees of Pathankot, Anandpur Sahib, Bhoocho, Dasuya and Sarhind.

       Disclosing this here today a spokesman of the Chief Minister’s Office said that the Punjab government had nominated Mr. Om Parkash, Mr. Hargobind Singh, Mr. Bhagwant Singh Cheema and Mr. Gavan Kumar Ghai as Chairmen of Market Committees of Anandpur Sahib (Ropar), Bhoocho (Bathinda), Dasuya (Hoshiarpur) and Pathankot (Gurdaspur) respectively under Sub Section (1) of Section 16 of Punjab Agricultural Produce Markets Act, 1961. Besides, Mr. Surjit Singh and Mr. Naresh Pathania as Vice Chairmen of Market Committees of Dasuya and Pathankot respectively.  

      Likewise, the Punjab government under Section 12 of Punjab Agriculture Produce Markets Act, 1961 (Punjab Act No.23 of 1961) had also nominated three members of Market Committee Dasuya, 16 members each in the Market Committees of Sarhind and Pathankot. 

 

      The respective notifications relating to these nominations are being issued. 

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

BADAL WRITES TO PM NOT TO TINKER WITH EXISTING ADMINISTRATIVE STRUCTURE OF UT CHANDIGARH

Pleads for Immediate Transfer of Chandigarh to Punjab

 CHANDIGARH JANUARY 15:  

          Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal has urged the Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh not to tinker with the existing administrative structure in the Union Territory of Chandigarh in connection with the Governor of Punjab being the Administrator and continue with the present system till Chandigarh is formally transferred to the State of Punjab.

            In a letter to the Prime Minister, Mr. Badal informed him about the move to change the administrative structure of Union Territory of Chandigarh by incorporating new recruitment rules for medical posts in place of Chandigarh Administration Medical Posts (Group-A) Recruitment Rules 1983. Mr. Badal pointed out that as per rules now being proposed for filling up medical posts in Union Territory of Chandigarh, 50% posts of medical officers are to be filled by direct recruitment, 50% of posts of Senior Medical Officers by promotion and 10% by direct recruitment and the posts of Medical Superintendent and Principal Medical Officer are proposed to be filled purely by promotion.   He impressed upon the Prime Minister to instruct the Union Home Ministry and Chandigarh Administration not to take any steps to amend the existing Rules and the medical posts in the Union Territory of Chandigarh and allowed to continue to be filled from amongst the Punjab and Haryana cadre doctors as before.  

          Detailing the background of the existing recruitment process established in the Union Territory, Mr. Badal said that as per the decisions taken under The Punjab Re-organization Act, 1966, the posts of various services in the Union Territory of Chandigarh are required to be filled up by taking officers/officials on deputation from the States of Punjab and Haryana in the ratio 60:40 as per the policy guidelines issued by the Ministry of Home Affairs.   

       It may be recalled that the Supreme Court of India has not only upheld these policy guidelines in the case of Swarn Lata Versus Union of India (1980 Lab IC (NDC) 8 1979 1 Lab LJ C.A. No. 628 of 1978 dated 16th January, 1979) but has held that the instructions issued by Government of India to the effect that the civil posts in the Chandigarh Administration shall be manned by the employees of the State Governments of Punjab and Haryana on deputation basis are supplemental, incidental and consequential provisions for the reorganization of the States under the Reorganization Act and are binding on all the parties covered under the reorganization.  

           The Chief Minister further pleaded that in view of the order of the Supreme Court of India, there should be no deviation from filling the civil posts in the Union Territory of Chandigarh on deputation from Punjab and Haryana in the ratio of 60:40 till Chandigarh remains Union Territory and is transferred to the state of Punjab. The existing Rules and policy guidelines have stood the test of time and balance has been struck between the States of Punjab and Haryana. There is no rationale or requirement for amending the existing Rules or modifying existing policy guidelines, Mr. Badal asserted.   

           Mr. Badal further mentioned in the communication that any move to change the existing administrative structure of Union Territory of Chandigarh was a matter of serious concern to the State of Punjab and its people. The aspirations and sentiments of all Punjabis are deeply attached to the issue of the city right from the date the city was conceived. Mr. Badal vehemently said: “The State of Punjab is absolutely clear that Chandigarh belongs to Punjab to which it needs to be transferred immediately. The people of Punjab expect you to use your good offices to resolve this long outstanding issue regarding the transfer of Chandigarh to Punjab. No such efforts to change the existing administrative structure of the Union Territory Chandigarh will, therefore, be tolerated by the people of the state”. Immediate directions are, therefore, required to be issued to the concerned authorities to desist form making any change in the existing rules/policy guidelines, added the Chief Minsiter. 

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

   BADAL SEEKS PM’S INTERVENTION TO TAKE UP WITH AUSTRALIAN GOVERNMENT FOR SAFETY OF RELIGIOUS PLACES AND PUNJABI COMMUNITY IN AUSTRALIA  

CHANDIGARH JANAURY 15:

      Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal has sought intervention of the Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh to use his good offices with Australian government to ensure the protection and safety of religious places and Punjabi community in Australia.

              In a communiqué to the Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh, the Chief Minister drew his attention to the grave incident of torching of Gurdwara premises under construction in Melbourne in Australia on the intervening night of 12 & 13 January, 2010 and conveyed his serious concern over the racial discrimination against members of Punjabi community in Australia and said that despite various assurances by the Australian government and the Ambassador of Australia in India there is no positive outcome and the situation is deteriorating day by day, creating anguish and a sense of insecurity among the Punjabis.   

      The Chief Minister pointed out in the letter that the Australian government has recognized the enormous contribution of Punjabis in the growth and economy of Australia, which is appreciable.  If such incidents of attack on religious places and the members of the Punjabi community continued, the circumstances may lead to various problems of serious nature including unrest in Punjab.    Mr. Badal however, urged the Prime Minister to direct the Ministry of External Affairs to monitor the situation and extend help to relieve the Indians and Punjabi community from the fears of insecurity, insults and harassment at the hands of miscreants in Australia. 

       The Chief Minister also impressed upon Dr. Singh to accord the highest priority to this sensitive issue and help restoring the faith and confidence among the members of Punjabi community in Australia.      

 

NO DIRECTION ISSUED BY THE PUNJAB GOVT. TO CLOSE ANY

BRANCH OF CENTRAL COOPERATIVE BANK – GOVT. SPOKESMAN

  CHANDIGARH JANUARY 15:  

      A spokesman of the Cooperation department Punjab described the news reports published in a section of press regarding the closure of 21 Rural Branches of Moga Central Cooperative Bank due to staff shortage as a figment of imagination, totally baseless and factually incorrect. 

      Clarifying the position, the spokesman stated that no such direction had been issued to any Central Cooperative bank by the state government.   He further said that the Punjab State Coop. Bank had also reported that no such direction had been issued to any Central Coop. Bank in the State.  He mentioned that the process for recruitment of various posts in the Central Coop. Banks was under way and likely to be initiated soon. No branch would be allowed to be closed due to shortage of staff.  However, Central Cooperative Banks and its management were at liberty to consider closure of any loss making or financially unviable branch at their own, the spokesman added. 

    …

  WITH RS. 8000 CRORES VAT COLLECTIONS THIS YEAR, PUNJAB SET TO ACHIEVE FASTEST REVENUE GROWTH –SUKHBIR  

Chandigarh, January 15:   Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal, Deputy Chief Minister today said that the Punjab is the only State in the country that had bypassed worldwide recession, by registering fastest and the highest revenue growth especially in VAT and Excise.

            Talking to media informally after the installation ceremonies of Mr. Ravikaran Singh Kahlon as Chairman of Punjab State Tubewell Corporation and Bhai Manjit Singh as Chairman of Punjab Energy Development Agency here today, Mr. Badal said that this could be possible only because of rationalization of tax structure besides checking the leakage. He said that by clocking Rs. 8000 crores in VAT collection during this financial year, Punjab would record Rs. 1000 crores record increase on last year collections.   He said that Punjab was targeting Rs. 11000 crores VAT collection by the March, 2011. He said that Punjab reached Rs. 5000 crores revenue collection in 62 years where as we would double this figure in just four years.  

          Mr. Badal said that similarly in the case of Excise Punjab had achieved a growth of Rs. 500 crores during last three years alone where as Congress could achieve Rs. 150 crores growth in its five year tenure. Mr. Badal said that State was streamlining the revenue collection machinery besides blocking the loopholes to boost the revenue growth in the state.

           When asked about Two Member Committee report, Mr. Badal said that it was Herculean task to seek data from every department, analyze  it besides incorporating innovative suggestions, with the sole purpose of boosting the revenue of the state and the committee would submit report  within this month.  

      Mr. Badal said that PSEB would be reimbursed relief extended to domestic as well as Industrial consumers in the beginning of next financial year. He said his mission is to make PSEB revenue surplus by reducing the cost at which PSEB purchased the electricity. He said that previous government put the PSEB in dire straits by purchasing electricity as Rs. 12 per unit and supplying them to consumers at Rs. 3 per unit. He said that PSEB would be supplied power by new Thermal Plants at Rs. 2.90 per unit. He said that construction work of all the Thermal Plants was on fast track. The work on the 540 MW Goindwal Sahib and 1980 MW Talwandi Sabo Thermal Plant, has been in full swing.  Machinery worth Rs 1000 Crore had ordered for Talwandi Sabo Thermal Plant and the order for the same had already been placed by the GVK group for Goindwal Sahib Plant. 1320 MW Rajpura Power plant had been awarded to the L&T group and the State government had been vigorously pursuing the case for sanction of coal link with Union Coal Ministry for 2640 MW Giddarbaha Thermal Project. In addition to it, the financial institutions had sanctioned 80% of loan for 168 MW Shahpur Kandi Project to be constructed at Rs.1628 crore.   This national project declared by GoI would be executed by the state Irrigation Department and completed within 3 years.

            Focusing on non- conventional energy generation Punjab was targeting to produce 140 MW from mini hydel plants, 500 MW from 28 upcoming baggase based  power plants, 200 MW from solar power plants, 208 MW from co-generation plants  besides saving 1850 MW power by replacing  traditional bulbs of 48 lac house holds with CFL bulbs.   

          Mr. Badal said that Punjab has emerged as pioneer state in implementation of non-conventional energy projects and has unique distinction of commissioning country's first ever solar power plant in the state.

       Prominent amongst those were present on the occasions included Mr. Nirmal Singh Kahlon, Speaker, Mr. Janmeja Singh Sekhon, Irrigation  Minister, Mr. Parminder Singh Dhindsa, PWD (B&R) Minister, Ch. Swarna Ram, Cabinet Minister, Mr.Sat Pal Gosain, Deputy Speaker, Mr. Sarwan Singh Phillaur, Mr. Avinash Chander, Mr. Jagdish Sahani, Ch. Nand Lal, (All CPS), Mr.Bikram Singh Majithia, Former Minister. Mr.Ujjagar Singh Badali, Mr.Dalbir Singh Verka. Mr.Malkit Singh AR, Mr.Mohan Lal Banga, Mr.Virsa Singh Valtoha, all M.L.As.  
 

No Board exams for 5th class

  Chandigarh, January 15:    

      The Punjab Government has decided to discontinue the board examination of 5th class in the state.

       Disclosing this here today a spokesman of the School Education Department said that keeping in view the Central Legislation Right to Education Act, the education department had decided to discontinue the 5th class annual examination being taken by the Punjab School Education Board. The Sarv Shiksha Abhiyan (SSA) will conduct the  examination of 5th  class at school level and would print and distribute the question papers for 5th class local examination, he added.  

       He further said that the DEOs (elementary) would collect Rs. 25/- per child from the privately managed schools for smooth conduct of examinations.

            The DEOs would supervise and distribute the question papers to all the elementary schools in the state and the examination papers would be checked at the school level. The SSA would issue the certificates to the students of 5th class.

 
  PUNJAB TO LAUNCH RECRUITMENT DRIVE IN MILKFED  

 

Chandigarh, January 15:

            In a bid to revamp Milkfed the Punjab Government gave a green signal to fill up 49 posts of different categories in the Milkfed and Milk Unions attached to it.

            Disclosing this here today a spokesman of  the Chief Minister's office informed that as per the directions of the Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal,  Milkfed would soon recruit two Managers (Procurement & Inputs), one Manager each for Quality Control, Production and Marketing. Besides three Deputy Managers (Marketing), two Deputy Managers (Accounts), five Deputy Managers (Quality Control), 8 Deputy Managers (Production) and two Deputy Managers (Engineering).

            The spokesman further informed that posts of two Foreman Electrical, one Foreman Mechanical, nine Dairy Assistants, two Mechanics Electrical, five chemists, two Laboratory Assistants, one Junior Mechanical General and two Operators (Public Health) would also be filled in the Milkfed.

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

  ROTATIONAL IRRIGATION PROGRAMME FOR RABI SEASON    ANNOUNCED  

Chandigarh, January 14:

      The Irrigation Department, Punjab has announced the Rotational Programme for irrigation for the Rabi Season through Canal water from    19-1-2010 to 26-1-2010. The channels of Sirhind Canal System would run on the priority basis from Sidhwan Branch, Bathinda Branch, Bist Doab,  Patiala feeder and Abohar Branch respectively.

       Disclosing this here today a spokesman of the irrigation department said that direct distributaries of Bhakra Main Line in group 'A' being in the channels of first preference will run to their indent and  balance water supplies available will be utilized in Ghaggar Branch and its off taking channels i.e Ghaggar Branch and Patiala Minor in Group 'B'  respectively.  

      The spokesman further said that all the direct distributaries of Sirhind Feeder in group 'A'  being in the First preference will run to their indent and balance water supplies available would be utilised in Abohar Branch off-taking from Sirhind Feeder and its distributaries/Minors in  Group 'B'.

      The spokesman also said that the channels off taking from upper Bari Doab Canal i.e.  Sabraon Branch with its distributaries being in the channels of first Preference would run to their indent and balance water would be supplies water available in Kasur Branch Lower, Main Branch Lower, Lahore Branch with their distributaries respectively.

 
  CM INAUGURATES CSTI TO IMPART SKILL DEVELOPMENT TRAINING TO UNEMPLOYED YOUTH  

Calls upon Big Industrial Houses to Set up Such More Skill Development

Training Centers in Punjab

  ABUL KHURANA (MUKTSAR) JANUARY 14:  

    To give imputes to the skill development and vocational training, the Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today called upon the world renowned industrial and construction companies to initiate joint ventures with the state government to set up skill development training centers to gainfully absorb  the unemployed and less educated youth in the industry and infrastructure projects. 

      After inaugurating Rs. 8 crore Construction Skill Training Institute (CSTI) here in gaint collaboration with the Punjab government and internationally acclaimed infrastructure joint Larsen & Toubro Ltd. (L&T).

      Mr. Badal lamented that the poor rural youth had been grossly neglected in the process of national development despite their untapped tremendous potential which would be channelised in a constructive manner.   Describing it as an irony of fate, Mr. Badal said that what to talk of states even the Centre had also completely ignored the human resource development sector which should have been accorded the top priority. 

      Showing deep concern over the problem of unemployment which was growing at an alarming rate, Mr. Badal said that this unhealthy trend must the checked forthwith otherwise it would lead to lawlessness and unrest amongst the youth due to the persistent frustration mounting on them.  He mentioned that since unemployment and poverty were co-related issues therefore, Centre should make a multi-pronged strategy in consultation with the state governments to tackle it effectively.  He called upon the unemployed youth to acquire technical skills to earn their livelihood in a dignified manner rather sitting idle at their homes.   He categorically said that they should bring a perceptible change in their mindset towards white collared jobs especially the government jobs as the state government was unable to provide these to the entire unemployed youth due to financial constraints.  He said that in the foreign countries the people voluntarily opt for job opportunities in private sector as compared government but in our country it was vice versa.  

      Unfolding an action plan prepared to solve the problem of unemployment, the Chief Minister said that the state government had made concerted efforts to set up skill development training centers to impart vocational training to our unemployed youth to improve their chances of employability.   He also asked the captains of the industry in the state to run the ITIs to train the work force required by them according to their needs.  He said that the trained work force in the filed of textile, garment, automobiles, hand tools and agro processing could be efficiently employed in these industries.

      Reiterating the firm commitment of SAD-BJP government to impart vocational training to the unemployed youth to enable them suitably employed not only with in the country but overseas also, Mr. Badal said that the State Government had already set up Department of Employment Generation to give sharpened focus to check the problem of unemployment in a result oriented manner and had successfully launched Skill Development programme in collaboration with renowned Bharti Wal Mart to impart training in retailing, logistics and supply chain management, L&T for  construction skills and Tata Motors for driving and Automotive skills for the youth of the state. He said that all the districts of the state would be soon covered under this unique programme in a phased manner. 

      Speaking on the occasion, the joint General Manager & Head Welding Products of L&T Mr. RK Aggarwal said that the advanced welding shop which had been inaugurated today was the second in country equipped with the ultra modern and advanced technology after the National Institute of Technology, Rourkela.  He conveyed his gratitude and best wishes on the inauguration of CSTI on behalf of the Chairman and Managing Director L&T Mr. AM Naik who could not come from Mumbai to attend the function due to inclement and foggy whether.  The Chief Minister reciprocated the goodwill gesture telephonically to Mr. Naik.     He assured the Chief Minister that the L&T would soon set up more such institutes in the state on the same pattern.  

      Speaking on the occasion, Principal of the Institute Capt. RD Parsad informed that the institute had so far imparted training to 156 students, of which 105 had been absorbed in various industrial and constructions activities.  As many as 81 students had been employed in the Guru Gobind Singh Oil Refinery at Bathinda.  He also mentioned that 10 students had been selected for overseas employment in Oman.    He pointed that the unemployed youth was being given three months training in the trades of masonry, bar bending, formwork, carpentry, plumbing, electrical and welding  in the institute. 

      On the occasion, the Chief Minister awarded certificates to the passed out students and released instruction manual of CSTI, Abul Khurana. 

      In his welcome address MLA Malout Mr. Harpreet Singh asked the panches and sarpanches of the adjoining villages to motivate the unemployed youth to avail of the training services imparted by CSTI to provide better opportunities to them in the near future.

      Prominent amongst others who were present on the occasion included Former Member Parliament Mr. Gurdas Singh Badal, Deputy Commissioner Muktsar Mr. Varun Roozam besides members of the L&T team including Regional Training Manager Construction skills Col. NB Saxena, Zonal Manager North Mr. RP Singh, Regional Manager Rajan Malhotra and Head Oxy-Fuel Business Mr. Udhay Mukherjee

 
 

BADAL CONDEMNS THE REPORTED INCIDENCE OF TORCHING THE GURDWARA PREMISES IN MELBOURNE

  CHANDIGARH JANUARY 13:

      Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal has strongly condemned the reported incidence of torching the Gurdwara premises in Melbourne (Australia) last night.

      Expressing his anguish over this attack on the Sikh religious place, Mr. Badal said that such untoward incidence of racial discrimination had also occurred earlier in Australia in which some Punjabis had lost their lives. He said that such ugly happenings had shaken the faith and confidence of peace loving members of Sikh community, who had been contributing enormously to the growth and economy of that country.

       Mr. Badal Further said that he would take up this issue of serious nature with the Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh asking the Australian Government to insure the protection and safety of Sikh religious places and Punjabis living in Australia.

 

CM CONDOLES  Sad demise of Ex-MP Tara Singh

  CHANDIGARH JANAURY 13:  

 Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today expressed profound grief and sorrow over the passing away of former MP and a Veteran Haryana Sikh leader Tara Singh who died after a brief illness at Kaithal.  He was 80.

        In a condolence message the Mr. Badal described Mr. Tara Singh as a multi – faceted personality with the qualities head and heart who tirelessly worked for the welfare of all sections of the society though out his life.

      Mr. Badal prayed to the Almighty to give courage and strength to the member of the bereaved family to bear this irreparable loss and grant peace to the departed soul.

 

CM, DEPUTY CM AND OTHERS PAID RICH TRIBUTES TO 40 MUKTAS

AT MAGHI MELA

BADAL CALLS UPON PUNJABIS TO FOIL NEFARIOUS DESIGNS OF CONGRESS TO CAPTURE CONTROL OF SGPC

  MUKTSAR JANUARY 13:   

    Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today dared the Congress party not to meddle in the religious affairs of the Sikhs keeping an eye on the forth coming general elections of SGPC, the Mini Parliament of the Sikhs.   

      Addressing a political conference here on the auspicious occasion of Maghi, Mr. Badal paid rich tributes to the 40 Muktas (liberated ones), who made a supreme sacrifice fighting against mughals at this historic place led by Bhai Maha Singh and Mai Bhago, the devout Sikhs of Sri Guru Gobind Singh ji.  Mr. Badal said that  the Sikhs  would not tolerate any sort of interference in their  religious matters by the Congress as its leadership had always instigating the Sikh community to divide them in order to take over the control of SGPC. The Chief Minister in unequivocal terms said the Congress party would never succeed in its nefarious designs to capture the control of gurdwaras managed by the SGPC.  He called upon the Punjabis not to be swayed by the false propaganda of the congress party to destabilized the SGPC through its cronies like Paramjit Singh Sarna.

      Accusing the Congress for 1984 riots, Mr. Badal said that none on this earth could forget this inhuman incident, which exposed the much-hyped 'secular image' of the party besides leaving a blot permanently.    He said the Congress party had always betrayed the Sikhs whenever it got a chance to win over them for instance, it was the Congress which attacked Sri Harmandir Sahib in Amritsar and also backed out from the Rajiv Longowal Accord by not giving the Chandigarh and not including Punjabi speaking areas in Punjab, besides denying its legitimate share in power and river waters.  He said, "None could suppress the indomitable spirit of the Sikhs as this community had been blessed with unique quality of valour and courage by our great Gurus and is a part of our precious legacy". He squarely blamed the Congress Party for shielding the culprits responsible for these riots and asked the Congress leadership to be sincere and honest to bring the guilty to the book immediately, who perpetrated the heinous crime against the Sikhs to assuage the tormented psyche of the victims of the genocide.   He pointed out the apathetic attitude of Congress towards Punjab by which it had been denied special package of  incentives  given to the industry in the its neibouring states of Himachal Pradesh, Uttrakhand and J&K, had resulted in the flight of industry from Punjab to these states.  Mr. Badal said that the congress had gone a step further in aggravating the miseries of Punjab by giving an extension of three years for availing these incentives. 

      Lashing at the Congress for instigating people for disturbing peace in the state and its indulgence in divisive politics, Mr.Badal said that the people had already realized that Congress's policy of 'divide and rule' which it has adopted not only in Centre but in the states to pursue its ill-conceived political agenda.   Mr. Badal lamented that after 62 years of freedom, Congress government during its successive terms in Centre and even in Punjab had not been able to provide the basic civic amenities to the common man.  He said that poor and lower strata of the society had been completely ignored by the Congress because it was least concerned about their welfare.  He said that our government was committed for the overall development of the state and its people.  He said that SAD being a party of a common man sensitized to the problems of the people at the grass root level was committed to serve them in the right earnest.

      Blaming the Centre for anti-farmer policies, Mr. Badal said that though Punjab was an agrarian state but the entire policies for the procurement of foodgrains, fixation of minimum support price and supply of DAP and fertilizers was framed by the Centre without taking states into confidence.   Taking a strong exception to the callous attitude of the Centre for adopting discriminatory approach against Punjabi farmers, Mr. Badal said that instead of appreciating us for bailing out the country out of the severe food crisis last year due to countrywide famine by contributing 70% of paddy in the national food pool, the Centre even denied our justified right to give us remunerative MSP on paddy despite ignoring the fact of high agricultural inputs cost incurred by our farmers on diesel etc. 

  On the power front, the state government had embarked upon a massive programme to make Punjab power surplus by 2012. He said that our government had already undertaken the power generation programme by setting up three thermal power plants including 540 MW Goindwal Sahib and 1980 MW Talwandi Sabo and 1320 MW at Rajpura. 

      On the education front, the Chief Minsiter said that the Punjab government had recruited 30000 teachers in the schools, besides setting up Adarsh Schools to provide quality education to poor and meritorious children free of cost. He said that 13 new degree colleges would be soon set up in the state besides Central University set up at Bathinda and World-Class University at Amritsar were being established. 

            In his address, President Shiromani Akali Dal and Deputy Chief Minister Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal paid homage to the 40 muktas on this historic day and lauded the outstanding contribution of SAD in the Sikh Politics during its chequered history of over 80 years.  He said that it was the only political party replete with the saga of supreme sacrifices which had always remained on the forefront in safeguarding the interests of the people on religio-political affairs. He urged the party workers to give utmost respect to the veteran grass root leaders of the party and take advantage of their rich experience and guidance in the party politics in order to strengthen the rank and file of SAD.  He said that SAD-BJP government was a true votary of the common man and always committed for their welfare and prosperity besides safeguarding their rights.  On the contrary Congress through its autocratic style of functioning was far away from the hearts of the people because it never bothered for the welfare of the people at the grass root levels whereas SAD-BJP government was sensitize to their basic problems and could feel their pulse.  He said that the SAD-BJP government had embarked upon an ambitious plan to make state power surplus by 2012 by adding four new thermal plants at Talwandi Sabo, Goindwal Sahib, Rajpura, Gidderbaha. He said that our SAD BJP government had initiated pro-poor welfare schemes like atta-dal, Shagun Scheme and old age pension, widow pension.  

            Lambasting at Congress, Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal asked the Congress party to shun from the anti-sikh activities with an ulterior motive to divide the Sikhs to seek control over SGPC.  He said that the Congress could not befool the Sikhs anymore as they were wise enough to read between the lines.

             Showing deep concern over the growing trend of drug-addiction amongst our youth, Mr.Sukhbir Singh Badal said that our youth should be motivated towards constructive activities. 

      As a major initiative to revamp the century old canal network in the state, the SAD-BJP Government had undertaken  a massive  Irrigation Infrastructure Development Programme at a cost of Rs. 4900 crore for rehabilitating/strengthening of main canal system/minors & distributaries.  He also said that the department of Water Supply & Sanitation had already installed 400-500 RO system in the villages of Malwa belt to ensure safe drinking water to save them from the health hazarded of deadly diseases like cancer.  He also declared that of all the villages where the ground water was brackish would be provided with RO system within next two years. 

      In his address the Punjab State BJP President Mr. Rajinder Bhandari said that the Congress led government at Centre had always discriminated against Punjabis in giving due right to the state.  He said that SAD-BJP alliance government in the state was only party which was true to its political agenda to give justice and fair deal to all sections of the society.  He appreciated the role of Chief Minister who was an undisputed leader of national stature to promote complete harmony in the SAD-BJP alliance besides ensuring Hindu-Sikh unity in real sense.

             Earlier SGPC President Jathedar Avtar Singh paid tributes to 40 Muktas, said that the SGPC would commemorate the 300th Anniversary of Sirhind Fateh divas in May 2010 to give a befitting tribute to the legendary Sikh warrior Baba Bandha Singh Bahadur.  He urged the Sikh sangat not to be misled by false propaganda of the Congress party focused on the elections of SGPC.  

            Prominent amongst others who spoke on the occasion included MP Ferozepur Mr. Sher Singh Ghubaiya, MP Faridkot Bibi Parmajit Kaur Gulshan, Senior Vice President SAD Mr. Gurdev Singh Badal, General Secretary SAD Mr. Balwinder Singh Bhunder, former Minister Jathedar Tota Singh.

      Apart from these Irrigation Minister Mr. Janmejha Singh Sekhon,  Media Advisor to Chief Minister Mr. Harcharan Bains, Chairman Punjab Land Mortgage Bank Mr. Sukhdarshan Singh Mrar,  Mr. Hari Singh Zira (all former Ministers),MLA Malout Harpreet Singh, MLA Jalandhar Cantt. Mr. Jagbir Singh Brar, MLA Baluana Mr.Gurtej Singh Ghuriana, District President Shiromani Akali Dal Muktsar Jathedar Manjit Singh Barkandi, Mr. Saroop Singh, Mr. Dyal Singh Gora (Both Member SGPC), President Nagar Council Muktsar Mr. Mit Singh Brar and senior leaders and party workers of the SAD-BJP and members of SGPC. 

 
  DGP's  LOHRI GIFT TO 58 POLICE AWARDEES

EXHORTS FORCE TO INCULCATE THE

SPIRIT OF SELFLESS SERVICE

Chandigarh, January 13: Punjab Director General of Police Mr. P.S. Gill today while honouring 58 awardees with DGP Commendation Disc called upon the Police force to adopt innovative techniques in crime prevention and detection by shedding complacency besides performing their mandated duty of maintaining the law and order in the state.

      Addressing them after an impressive the Investiture Ceremony held here in Punjab Police Headquarter, Mr. Gill said that underlying purpose of honouring the police officers/officials  on the occasion of  Lohri was that they as per the historic message of this festival would shed laziness and work whole heartedly for the welfare of people.  He reminded them of Dulla Bhatti, the legendary hero of mythological tale of Lohri, and hoped that Police officers while also involving themselves in social welfare activities would continue to perform their duties with renewed dedication.

      Earliest Mr. Gill awarded of DGP Commendation Disc to Mr. Jagdish Kumar, IPS, DIG Crime, Pb. Chandigarh; Mr.  Mukhwinder Singh Chhina, PPS, AIG Welfare, Mr Narinder Bhargav,PPS, SP-cum-Dy.Director, PPA,Phillaur, Mr. Rakesh Agrawal, IPS  SSP Shaheed Bhagat Singh Nagar, Mr. Lakhwinder Singh PPS, SP/Hqrs Sangrur, Mr. Pritpal Singh Thind, PPS, DSP Sunam; Mr. Davinder Singh PPS, DSP/Rural Patiala; Mr. Bhupinder Singh Sidhu, PPS, DSP Ludhiana, Mr. Dharam Singh Uppal, PPS, DSP, CPO, Mr. Satnam Singh, PPS, DSP(D), Ludhiana Rural, Inspector Yogi Raj, No. PR/173, District Ludhiana Rural, Inspr. Reshem Singh No. 288/PAP (RTC/PAP) TRC/PAP; Inspr Ram Lal No. 509/PAP Distt. Moga ; Inspr. (ORP) Balbir Singh No. 54/INT INT Wing; Inspr. (ROP) Harwinderpal Singh No. 1635/PAP INT wing;  SI Karminder Singh No. 51/JR SSP Rupnagar; SI Baj Singh No.206/PAP RTC/PAP; SI Gurpreet Singh No. 5/PR DIG/LR/Ludhiana, SI Harjinder Singh No. 155/Khanna INT Wing, SI (LR) Angreg Singh No. 114/Jall. Distt Jaladhar, SI (LR) Bhagwant Singh No. 419/PR Distt. Sangrur; SI(LR) Avtar Singh No. 585/JR Distt. Jalandhar; SI Gurcharan Singh, District Roopnagar, SI Shahbaz Singh No. 402/PR, O/o SSP/Rupnagar; ASI Subhash Chand 829/R O/o SSP/Rupnagar;  ASI Puspa Devi No. 32/FGS Distt. Patiala; ASI Avtar Singh No. 891/GS, Distt. Gurdaspur; ASI Rajiv Kumar No. 1663/MJA Dy Supdt. of Police, Municipal Corporation Ludhiana; ASI (LR) Harpreet Singh No. 133/Ludhiana(R), Distt. Ludhiana Rural; ASI/LR Ashwani Kumar No. 786/FZR Distt. Ferozpur; LR/ASI Sukhpal Singh 18/SBSN DIG/JR/Jall, HC Jugal Kishore No. 82/114 Armed Bns.; HC Daljit Singh No. CTC/38 CTC BHG; HC Walati Ram 1535/LDH Ludhiana/Range; HC Bhupinder Singh 2642/LDH Ludhiana/Range; HC  Kuldeep Singh 42/TTN O/o SSP/Ludhiana(R); HC Sukhwinder Singh 1st IRB/107 O/o SP/Excise/Comdt. 1st IRB, HC Surjit Singh 172/Jall, O/o SSP /Jalandhar, HC PP Gursewak Singh 2537/SGR Patiala/Zonal-1 Punjab, HC (LR) Varinder Singh No. 414/Sangrur  Distt. Sangrur; HC (PR) Ramesh Kumar No. 1037/HPR Jalandhar/Range; HC/PP Jasvir Singh No. 1128/HPR Jalandha/Range, HC/PP Tilak Raj 2618/Jall O/o SSP /Jalandhar; C-II Bute Khan No. 1867/Sangrur, INT Wing; C-II Harjinder Singh 465/Ludhiana/R O/o SSP/Ludhiana(R); C-II Avtar Singh 770/Patiala, Patiala; Ct. Parshotam Singh 2519/LDH, Ludhiana/Range, CT Ramesh  Kumar 271/1 Ludhiana/Range, Ct. Manga Masih 1217/Jall O/o SSP Jalandhar; Inspr (LR) Jaswinder Singh No. 528/PR, Jalandhar Zonal, SI Sohan Lal No. 800/PAP Armed Battalion Jalandhar, SI Karam Chand No. 34/PPA, PPA Phillaur, PPA Phillaur; ASI(ORP) Harbans Singh No. 324/Khanna, Prosecution & Summon Staff, Khanna Zonal Jalandhar; HC Jagmal Singh No. 13/05 Security Wing Punjab, Chandigarh; HC Tikka Ram No. 02/RTC, PRTC Jahan Khelan, Punjab Police Academy Phillaur, L/HC Usha Rani No. 99/PPA, PPA Phillaur, PPA Phillaur; SI/LR Sarabjit Singh No. 166/PR,O/o SSP/Rupnagar and HC Bahadur Singh 1596/R, O/o SSP/Rupnagar.

  The above mentioned awardees were awarded elliptical shaped disc made of bronze in golden colour with commendation disc embossed on the obverse, with Punjab Police monogram in the centre.

      It may be added that the DGP Mr. P.S.Gill had in September, 2009 introduced Commendation Disc for Police Officer/Officials for outstanding Policing achievements/practices in the areas of Anti terrorist operations, outstanding investigation and prosecution, community policing, road safety, checking drug abuse and smuggling, implementation of modern IT tools, best practices in police office management, police welfare, best Police Station etc., to boost their morale.

 

PUNJAB LEADS THE COUNTRY IN CONSTRUCTION OF RECORD NUMBER OF RoBs IN A SINGLE YEAR –SUKHBIR

 Chandigarh, January 12

Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal, Deputy Chief Minister today said that massive development drive initiated by the state government got certification from the Union Railway Ministry as Chairman Railway Board had recently said that Punjab was leading the country as far as constructions of RoBs  this year was concerned.

      Speaking after inaugurating a Railway Over Bridge RoB on Railway Crossing B-48/a at Abohar-Hanumangarh road today, Mr. Badal said that it was matter of great satisfaction for him that due to his constant perusal at every level and ensuring perfect coordination between Railway Ministry, PWD and PIDB, record 17 RoB/RuBs have been completed in a single financial year and all these would be inaugurated by 31st March this year positively. He said that it was matter of great pleasure that out of 44 RoBs to be competed by the Northern railways, 17 alone would be in state of Punjab. He said that four projects were competed in last year and 17 more RoBs would be completed by 31st March this year and work on remaining 15 RoBs would completed by March 2011.

      Announcing to a thunderous applause while reading out the list of RoBs to be completed by 31st March, Mr. Badal said that this list should seal the lips of propaganda machinery of Congress in the state that had been claiming zero development in the state. He said that the Railway over Bridge to be completed include Jagraon, ROB, Chandigarh- Morinda RoB, Mansa-Road Under Bridge, ROB  No. 10 on ABS-FKA Section,  Bathinda- Sriganganagar- Road Over Bridge, near Malout, RoB No. 40 on ABS-FKA section, Bathinda 4 lane- Road Over Bridge , Tanda Yard - Road Over Bridge, Bathinda-Road Under Bridge, Bathinda-Road Over Bridge, Jalandhar City- Road Over Bridge (Maksooda),  Beas- Road Over Bridge, Batala- Road Over Bridge Amritsar- Road Over Bridge, Jalandhar City-Firozepur (DAV College Halt)- Road Over Bridge and Chawa-Payal- Road Over Bridge on Ambala –Ludhiana section near Khanna.

      Mr. Badal said that next two years would witness the culmination of ambitious projects including infrastructure projects initiated by SAD-BJP government. He said with the completion of Four Thermal Plants with generation capacity of 6500 MW, 48 bagasse based power plants with combined capacity of 500 MW, Solar Power Plants with combined generation capacity of 40 MW would be operational in next two year besides 6 lanning and 4 lanning of total network of National as well as state highways at the cost of Rs. 5000 crores, would put Punjab on higher orbit of development. He said that with world class infrastructure and surplus power, Punjab was all set to become most favoured investment destination for the corporate sector.

      Prominent among others Mr. Parminder Singh Dhindsa, PWD Minister, Mr. Sher Singh Ghubhaya, MP, Mr. Des Raj Dhugga, Chief Parliamentary Secretary, Mr. Gurdas Singh Badal, former MP, Mr. Gurtej Singh Ghuriana, MLA and Dr. Ram Kumar Goyal, former MLA were also present on the occasion 

 
  CM CONDOLES THE DEATH OF CHANAN KAUR  

 

CHANDIGARH JANAURY 12:

 Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today expressed profound grief at the demise of Smt. Chanan Kaur mother of renowned environmentalist and Member of the Board of Directors of Punjab Pollution Control Board Mr. Balbir Singh Seechewal.  She was 81 and died after a brief illness at village Seechewal district Jalandhar.     

          In a condolence message the Mr. Badal expressed heartfelt sympathies with the bereaved family in this critical hour and prayed to the Almighty to grant peace to the departed soul and strength to the family to bear this irreparable loss.

      Meanwhile Deputy Chief Minister Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal also condoled the death of Smt. Chanan Kaur and expressed his sorrow. 

…

 
  INFORMATION & PUBLIC RELATIONS DEPTT., CHANDIGARH

KAHLON GREETS PEOPLE ON LOHRI

 

Chandigarh, January 12:- The Speaker Punjab Vidhan Sabha Mr. Nirmal Singh Kahlon, while extending greetings on the joyous festival of Lohri, called upon the people to dedicate this occasion to the cause of the Girl Child and to renew their resolve to work with sincerity and commitment for eradication of unethical practice of female foeticide and child abuse, the major issues of societal concern these days.

      Mr. Kahlon further said that Lohri festival has a great significance in our social system and as per the existing practices, the people observe it for the celebration of the birth of a male child and the marriage of their sons. ‘We have to reverse this trend by changing our societal attitudes and community practices and establish a new tradition, of celebrating the birth of a child’.

 
 
  SUKHBIR, SEKHWAN GREET PEOPLE ON THE EVE OF LOHRI  

Chandigarh, January 12: Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal, Deputy Chief Minister Punjab today greeted the people of the State on the auspicious occasion of Lohri.

  In a message, Mr. Badal said this festival symbolizing onset of spring after a spell of chilly winter is an occasion to celebrate the bounty of nature and the colour and gaiety of the country.

      He said the best way of celebrating festival is to share each others joy and bring cheer on the faces of all. He hoped that this occasion would help in further strengthening communal harmony, amity, brotherhood and secular ethos.

      Meanwhile, Punjab Public Relations Minister Mr. Sewa Singh Sekhwan has also greeted the people of state on the festival of Lohri and urged the Punjabis to celebrate this occasion collectively to say goodbye to frosty winter in Punjab.

  HEALTH & FAMILY WELFARE MINISTER FELICITATES PEOPLE ON LOHRI  

CHANDIGARH

JANUARY 12:

            Mrs. Laxmi Kanta Chawla Health & Family Welfare Minister today greeted the people of Punjab on the eve of Lohri and wished all the Punjabis settled in India and abroad a happy Lohri.

      In her message on this joyous occasion, Mrs. Chawla said that the Lohri was a festival to worship the fire which brings light in our lives. She promised the people that the health & family welfare department was fully committed to bring light of happiness in their lives and provide them all proper health care facilities.  She also appealed the people to celebrate this festival collectively by rising above petty considerations of caste, colour, creed and religion.

 

Schedule for RIMC Entrance Test announced

  Chandigarh, January 12:

              The entrance examination for admission to the Rashtriya Indian Military College ( RIMC ), Dehradun for January 2011 term would be conducted here at Lala Lajpat Rai Bhawan (Sector-15) on 1st & 2nd  June, 2010.

             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 January, 1998 and not later than 1st July, 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 06 October,  2010 (Wednesday).

             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 31st March, 2010. Application received after 31-3-2010 will not be entertained.

 
  BADAL ANNOUNCES GRANT OF RS.5 LAC EACH TO THE FAMILIES OF NITIN GARG AND RANJOT SINGH KILLED IN RACIAL ATTACKS

IN AUSTRALIA

  CHANDIGARH JANUARY 11:

      Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today announced an ex-gratia grant of Rs.5 lac each to the family of Nitin Garg and Ranjot Singh who were killed in racial attacks by unidentified assailants in Australia last week.

      Disclosing this here today a spokesman of the Chief Minister’s Office said that Mr. Badal had already taken up the issue with the Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh to further take up the matter with higher authorities in Australia to ensure adequate security and safety of the Indian students pursuing higher studies there.

      Sharing his heart felt condolences with the bereaved families, Mr. Badal said that all these incidents go against the spirit of any civilized society and assured them that his government would pursue with the Government of India to mount pressure constantly on the Australian government to take up immediate and effective steps to ensure the security of the members of the Indian community in general and the Punjabis in particular against elements indulging in these inhuman crimes.  The Chief Minister hoped that the authorities in Australia would comply with the international norms on hate crimes against immigrants and take tangible steps to ensure the security of life and property of Punjabis in Australia. 

      It may be recalled that the Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal and Deputy Chief Minister Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal led a delegation of Senior Akali leaders and called on the Australian High Commissioner Mr. Peter Varghese at New Delhi on January 6 and handed over a memorandum to him seeking concrete steps to safeguard life and property of Punjabis against increasing number of racist attacks in Australia 

SUMMON EMERGENCY SESSION OF PARLIAMENT TO DEBATE INDIA LOOSING LAND TO CHINA –HARSIMRAT 

Chandigarh, January 11

Member Parliament from Bathinda Lok Sabha Constituency today demanded to convene special emergency session of Parliament to debate the serious issue of India loosing its substantial portion of land to China along with Line of Actual Control.

          In a statement issued here, Mrs. Harsimrat Kaur Badal said that the government that can not guard the frontiers of its own country has no moral right to continue in power. She said that it was matter of great regret that China's people librations army by threatening and assaulting the locals had been grabbing the Indian Territory, with Indian government keeping its eyes close. She said that despite the SOS message sent by J& K government to the Union Government that China's army had threatened the nomads and burnt their tents, India instead of taking measures to take back its own land was trying to keep this serious issue under wraps.

      Mrs. Badal said that UPA government by such instances has conveyed to the world community that it was a soft state unable to take any hard action against attack on its unity and sovereignty and our neighbors were taking undue advantage of this. She said that failure of India in forcing Pakistan to book conspirators of 26/11, its failure to extradite Headly from USA and now incursions by China were indicators of the fact that India was not safe in the hands of UPA government.  She said that it was Mr. Atal Behari Vajpayee who got every inch of land in Kargil back after giving a befitting reply to Pakistan during NDA rule.

          Demanding immediate session of parliament to debate UPA failure, Mrs. Badal said that time has come that Union Defense Minister as well as Prime Minister must resign owing moral responsibility of this failure.

PUNJAB TO RECRUIT MORE 3400 PRIMARY TEACHERS-UPINDERJIT KAUR

Chandigarh January 11: With a view to fill the remaining vacancies in the elementary schools the Punjab Government would recruit more than 3400 primary teachers in the state before the new academic session. This was disclosed by Dr. Upinderjit Kaur, Education & Languages Minister Punjab here today.

          In a meeting with the representatives of the unemployed ETT Teachers Association, Education Minister said that the department had already submitted the memorandum to be approved by the Punjab cabinet. This requirement of teachers had been finalized after the rationalization of the posts in the schools as well as the retirements to be over upto 31st March, 2010, she added.

          The Minister further added that the Punjab Government had already recruited 14000 teachers and 10000 were to be recruited before the coming academic session as the process was on fast track. Besides, more than 7000 computer teachers were already been recruited by the department, the Minister added.

          She assured the associations that the Punjab Government is committed to impart quality education to the students in the state so that they could compete at the National & International arena.

          In another meeting with the substitute computer teachers association Dr. Upinderjit Kaur advised them to appear into the forth and final computer test to be conducted on 17 January, 2010 as a fulfillment of their service conditions. She added that the department had conducted three such tests for the computer faculty but still 408 computer teachers were to clear their required examination so that their pay perks could be increased.

          Prominent among others Secretary Education (schools) Mr. Mr. G.S. Grewal, DGSE Mr. Krishan Kumar, Special Secretary (schools) Mr. R.L. Mehta, DPI (Elementary) Dr. Sadhu Singh Randhawa, President unemployed ETT Teachers Association Mr. Jagpreet Singh and Vice President Mr. Parvesh Kumar were also present in the meeting.

 

 

Chandigarh January 11:

      An official spokesman of Punjab Government disclosed here today that in terms of rehabilitation package issued by the  Ministry of Home Affairs, Government of India, rehabilitation grant @ Rs. 2 Lac per family was to be disbursed to the families affected by the Anit Sikh riots  1984.

      He further said that families holding the Red Identity Cards and residing in state of Punjab which could not earlier obtain the rehabilitation grant can apply on plain paper alongwith documents to the respective Deputy Commissioners of the Districts in which they were residing for getting the rehabilitation grant upto 31-01-2010.

      Such families whose application for getting, the rehabilitation grant was already pending for consideration in offices of Deputy Commissioners need not apply again. No such application would be entertained after 31.01.2010.