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------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- PARTY CADRE TO KEEP AN EYE ON IMPLEMENTATION OF ALL WELFARE SCHEMES
Chandigarh, Jan 29, 2010 Shiromani Akali Dal President Sukhbir Singh Badal today asked party cadre to keep an eagle’s eye on implementation of all people welfare oriented schemes in the field and submit report regarding any lapses if any to the party headquarter. Presiding over the Political Affairs Committee meeting, as part of two day brain storming session, Mr. Badal said that it was the responsibility of the party cadre to ensure that benefits of all welfare schemes percolate to the target beneficiaries. He said that Punjab government was spending thousands of Crores on different welfare schemes and it becomes our duty to ensure that poor people living in the remote rural areas drive benefits of these schemes. Mr. Badal said that common masses were hit by unprecedented rise of prices of essential commodities. People have to be explained that how Congress led UPA government was manipulating price rise, just to benefit few selected business houses and hoarders. Party cadre must explain to the public that price rise was always synonymous with Congress rule. He asked the part cadre to educate the masses regarding the new scheme of fortified whole wheat atta to be supplied at Rs. 12 per Kg to the masses and also about the effective implementation of atta-dal scheme. The Akali Dal President said that the year 2010 would witness implementation of all Administrative Reforms and culmination of major infrastructure projects. He said that the administrative reforms were aimed to improve delivery system of public services, cutting red-tapism thereby making the life of common citizen comfortable. He said that party cadre would take this message to every home and give feedback. Reiterating his commitment to make officers accountable to elected representatives, Mr. Badal said that SAD-BJP government encourage those performing and efficient officers giving them due regards and inefficient and laggards would be made answerable. The Party President instructed district observers to hold monthly meeting in each district and submit report to him after seeking information from Party cadre right from circle level. He said that this should be exhaustive report giving detailed feedback on implementation of government welfare schemes, problems if any, being faced by party cadre in each respective district. Stressing the need for strengthening the party Mr. Badal informed that all office bearers of all frontal organizations and different wings of Shiromani Akali Dal down to circle level would be announced within 30 days. Dr. Daljit Singh Cheema, Spokesman and Secretary of the party informed that earlier in the working committee meeting the feedback of district Presidents was deliberated threadbare and strategy was worked out to strengthen the party at grass root level. Badal calls on Jairam Ramesh JAIRAM RAMESH SANCTIONS RS.220 CRORE UNDER NRCP FOR 5 TOWNS IN PUNJAB Asks CPCB Chairman to Sanction Environmental Clearances to all Pending Projects Soon CHANDIGARH JANUARY 29: The Union Minister of State for Environment & Forests Mr. Jairam Ramesh gave in principle approval to sanction Rs.220 crore during the current financial year under National River Conservation Plan (NRCP) for providing sewerage system and sewage treatment plants in the towns of Nawanshahr, Banga, Jalandhar, Phagwara and Phillaur. A decision to this effect was taken by Mr. Jairam Ramesh in a meeting with Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal, who called on him at his office ‘Paryavarn Bhawan’ in New Delhi late last evening. Responding to another issue raised by Mr. Badal for inordinate delay in the environmental clearances which had put investments worth Rs.2560 crore onhold especially in Ludhiana, Mr. Ramesh assured the Chief Minister that Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) Chairman Prof. SP Gautam would be visiting Punjab next week to make on the spot assessment to accord sanction for the environmental clearances based on the Comprehensive Environmental Pollution Index (CEPI) immediately to all the low/non-polluting projects in Punjab, which were pending with the Ministry of Environment & Forests over a long time. The Minister of State for Environment & Forests also agreed to the proposal of Mr. Badal to release Rs.27 crore on account of the arrears of water cess share due to Punjab Pollution Control Board during the current financial year. It may be recalled that the Chief Minister was deeply concerned for the pollution of river waters due to contamination of excessive industrial waste and pollutants leading to various health hazards like cancer and skin problems. Mr. Badal had been constantly monitoring with the officers of concerned agencies and Punjab State Pollution Board to accord top priority for the implementation of Satluj Action Plan along with river Beas and Ravi aiming to improve the quality of water both for drinking and irrigation. The Chief Minister was accompanied by his Media Advisor Mr. Harcharan Bains, Principal Secretary Mr. DS Guru, Special Principal Secretary Mr. KJS Cheema and Additional Principal Secretary Mr. Gaggandip Singh Brar. ----
BADAL SEEKS PM’S INTERVENTION TO EITHER GET THE PROPOSED EXTENSION STOPPED OR GRANT A SIMILAR PACKAGE TO PUNJAB Also Demands Relief Package of 1420 Crore PM Assures Badal of Positive Response CHANDIGARH JANUARY 29: The Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today urged the Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh to intervene "personally and effectively" to ensure that the Punjab economy in general and its industry in particular was not made a hostage to the Government's India's proposed decision to extend the package of industrial concessions to Himachal Pardesh, Uttrakhand and Jammu & Kashmir. The Chief Minister called on Dr. Manmohan Singh at the latter's race course residence at New Delhi and urged him to either get the proposed extension stopped or ensure a similar package to Punjab. Mr. Badal also called for a relief package of Rs. 1420 crore from the Centre as compensation for the extra-ordinary measures taken by the Punjab State Electricity Board which had to divert 3500 million units from other sectors to the farm sector during the Kharif season to fight the menace of drought. Punjab was the only state which had battled drought to such an extent that it has not only maintained the production at the previous year’s level but had in fact broken all records in this regard. But in the process, Punjab farmers had to make major sacrifices in terms of land and water resources. And they had to spend heavily on diesel sets, power and other inputs to ensure that production did not suffer, but the Centre had not come up with any package to help the farmers a and provide them with an incentive. Mr. Badal also presented a detailed case on behalf of his state saying that the continued concessions had already robbed the state of Punjab of major growth potential and had delivered a crippling blow to its industry. Because of these concessions, industrialists in Punjab were not able to compete with their counterparts from states which enjoyed the package. Not only had there been virtually no new investment in Punjab because of the discriminatory application of concessions, but there has been an alarming flight of capital from the state, resulting in major set back to industrial growth. Consequently, the Chief Minister pointed out nearly 274 industrial units of Punjab had already either shifted or set up their expansion units with investment of about Rs.3674 crore in the neighbouring states to avail of these extra concessions in these neighbouring states. Further, there had been considerable decline in the central excise collection in Punjab which had gone down from Rs.1896.99 crore in 2004-05 to Rs.867.17 crore in the year 2006-07. This trend also created the spectre of an alarming unemployment in the state. These conditions, said Mr. Badal, did not augur well for the country as Punjab was a sensitive border state where socio-economic stability was of paramount importance for our national interests. Assuring of a positive response, Dr. Singh said that the Centre would certainly look into these issues raised by Mr. Badal sympathetically. He also assured Mr. Badal that he would soon personally take up the matter with Ministry of Finance for early grant of Special Central Assistance to compensate the state for record paddy production despite adverse climatic conditions during Kharif 2009. The Chief Minister was accompanied by his Media Advisor Mr. Harcharan Bains, Principal Secretary Mr. DS Guru, Special Principal Secretary Mr. KJS Cheema and Additional Principal Secretary Mr. Gaggandip Singh Brar. ----
PUNJAB CM CALLS ON UNION MINISTER OF WATER RESOURCES
CHANDIGARH JANUARY 29: Punjab Chief Minister Parkash Singh Badal today called on Union Minister of Water Resources Mr. Pawan Kumar Bansal in his office at Shram Shakti Bhawan, New Delhi and sought an early clearance of various pending irrigation projects with the GoI. Mr. Badal asked the Union Minister of Water Resources to immediately release Rs.764 crore for substitution of project renovation and modernization of canals being fed from the river Satluj in place of Shah Nehar tranche. Likewise, he also urged Mr. Bansal to immediately release Rs. 135 crore for the embankment and strengthening of 16.5 KM stretch of Ghaggar river under phase II as the delay in the execution could cause substantial loss to the human lives, property and crops during the monsoon seasons. He also requested Mr. Bansal to look into frivolous objections raised by Haryana in the way of execution of this project. The Chief Minster also impressed Mr. Bansal for the expeditious implementation of Shahpur Kandi project by Central Water Commission which had already been declared as National project. He also sought early clearance of various projects worth Rs.300 crore under Flood Management Programme and also demanded allocation of Rs.30 crore for maintenance of bandhs to avert floods due to heavy seasonal rains. Mr. Bansal assured the Chief Minister of full support and cooperation besides expeditiously execution of the various irrigation projects in the state pending with GoI. The Chief Minister was accompanied by his Media Advisor Mr. Harcharan Bains, Principal Secretary Mr. DS Guru, Special Principal Secretary Mr. KJS Cheema and Additional Principal Secretary Mr. Gaggandip Singh Brar. …
BADAL SEEKS UNION FINANCE MINISTER’S INTERVENTION FOR SPECIAL COMMEMORATIVE COINS ON FATEH DIVAS OF BABA BANDA SINGH BAHADUR PLEADS FOR SPECIAL CENTRAL ASSISTANCE OF RS.1420 CRORE
CHANDIGARH JANAURY 29: The Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today urged the Union Finance Minister Mr. Pranab Mukherjee to get limited special edition coins of Rs.5 and Rs.10 denomination minted in the memory of great Sikh warrior Baba Banda Singh Bahadur as a befitting tribute to his martyrdom being observed as tercentennial FATEH DIVAS (Victory Day) on May 12, 2010. Mr. Badal called on the Union Finance Minister at latter’s residence at New Delhi late last evening and requested him to clear the proposal positively before May 12, 2010. It may be recalled that the Fateh Divas, heralded the establishment of the first Sikh State. The architect of this historic victory was Baba Banda Singh Bahadur, who was considered one of the greatest and most hallowed warriors and martyrs of the Sikh. Raising another issue to seek Union Finance Minister’s direct intervention for release of Rs.1420 crore on account of Special Central Assistance to the state for PSEB, Mr. Badal requested the Union Finance Minister to grant the assistance immediately as the state government’s Electricity Board had to divert 3500 million units to the farm sector during Kharif 2009. It may be recalled despite the adverse and harsh climatic conditions during Kharfi 2009, the combined efforts of farmers and state government resulted in increasing the paddy production to 168 lac tonnes as compared to 151 lac tonnes in the last year, though these efforts drained out almost the entire reservoir of fiscal energy of both. Responding to the issues raised by the Chief Minister, Mr. Mukherjee assured Mr. Badal of positive response and appreciated the contribution of Punjabi farmers in preserving and securing the overall national interest on food security fronts. He specifically said that he would soon convene a separate meeting of his Ministry to address the issues on priority. The Chief Minister was accompanied by his Media Advisor Mr. Harcharan Bains, Principal Secretary Mr. DS Guru, Special Principal Secretary Mr. KJS Cheema and Additional Principal Secretary Mr. Gaggandip Singh Brar. CM URGES DR. MANMOHAN SINGH TO EXTEND DMIC PROJECT TO HERALD INDUSTRIAL REVOLUTION IN PUNJAB Chandigarh JANUARY 29: Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today urged the Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh to extend the Delhi-Mumbai Industrial Corridor (DMIC) up to Amritsar to boost industrial development in the state. Mr. Badal called on the Prime Minister at his residence in New Delhi this morning to plead the case of extension of DMIC up to Amritsar which would give an impetus to an overall industrial growth in Punjab. Giving details of the meeting, Chief Minister’s Media Advisor Mr. Harcharan Bains said that Mr. Badal informed the Prime Minister that Punjab was a landlocked state and the industry was also in a disadvantageous position, particularly after the withdrawal of freight equalization scheme viz-a-viz other coastal states. Now with the coming up of DMIC, the industries in states of Gujarat, Maharashtra and Haryana would get further boost for getting the investment and making the industry of these states more competitive. The Chief Minister also mentioned that Punjab had the only exit route through Pakistan to Gulf, but not much of business/trade activities were taking place for many reasons. Mr. Badal apprised the Prime Minister that he had already taken up this issue with him and Ministry of Railways separately. He pointed out the extension of DMIC would help other states like Himachal and J&K also as they have no other exit route. The Chief Minster also urged the Prime Minister to direct the Ministry of Water Resources for expeditious implementation of Shahpur Kandi Project by Central Water Commission which had already been declared as National project. He urged Dr. Singh to treat the relining project of Rajasthan Feeder and Sirhind Feeder in Punjab tranche against Shah Nehar Project and demanded it should be treated as the central project without putting in Punjab tranche in view of its national importance. Apart from this, the Chief Minister also impressed upon Dr. Singh to ask the Ministry of Water Resources to immediately sanction Rs.763 crore for extension, renovation and modernisation of canals being fed from river Satluj in the Punjab tranche against Shah Nehar project. The Chief Minister also requested Dr. Singh to extend procurement support to the Maize crop in the state on the pattern of Wheat and Paddy in case of the agriculture produce procured by the Central Government agency (FCI). This step would not only boost the prospects of diversification of agriculture but also strengthen the food security programme of the country. The Chief Minister also urged Dr. Singh to sanction projects worth Rs. 17 crore under Gurta Gaddi Project for upgradation of Dasmesh Academy Anandpur Sahib, Ropeway project from Anandpur Sahib to Naina Devi, two bridges on seasonal rivulets at Anandpur sahib and upgradation of Sri Guru Teg Bahadur Museum Anandpur Sahib. Likewise, he also demanded Rs.10 crore each for the projects of Vadda Ghallughara in district Sangrur, Chhota Ghallughar in district Gurdaspur and Chappar Chirhi project in memory of Baba Banda Singh Bahdaur in district Mohali. The Prime Minister assured Mr. Badal of a positive response on these issues and said that he would personally look into the entire demands raised by him so that the pace of development and growth be not hampered due to paucity of funds. The Chief Minister was accompanied by his Media Advisor Mr. Harcharan Bains, Principal Secretary Mr. DS Guru, Special Principal Secretary Mr. KJS Cheema and Additional Principal Secretary Mr. Gaggandip Singh Brar. CM GREETS PEOPLE ON THE PARKASH UTSAV OF SRI GURU RAVIDAS JI Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today greeted the people of the State on the 633rd 'Parkash Utsav' of Sri Guru Ravidas ji. In a message, Mr. Parkash Singh Badal said that the life and teachings of Guru Ravidas continue to guide humanity towards an egalitarian society. Guru Ravidas - a great spiritual ambassador and messiah of the poor and unprivileged sections of the society taught us to lead a virtuous and noble life. His ‘Parkash Utsav’ is an occasion to rededicate ourselves to the task of creating a society where every human being leads a life with self respect and dignity regardless of any discrimination. The Chief Minister appealed the people to celebrate the 'Parkash Utsav' of Guru ji collectively rising above the parochial considerations of caste, creed, colour and religion. … BADBAR (BARNALA) JANAURY 28: To promote technical education in a big way, Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today announced that the legislation for 10% reserved seats for the economically poor and bright students in all the private and government polytechnics, engineering colleges and newly opened multi- disciplinary would be strictly enforced in the state. Addressing a mammoth gathering after laying the foundation stone of Rs.12.50 crore Government Polytechnic, Mr. Badal lamented that the poor rural youth had been grossly neglected in the process of national development despite their untapped tremendous potential which could be channelized in a constructive manner. He said that SAD-BJP government has made special emphasis to spread education in every nook and corner of the state. To give impetus to higher education in the state, Mr. Badal said that the SAD-BJP government had taken a major initiative to strengthen the educational network at all levels of Schools, Colleges and Universities. A Central university at Bathinda, world Class University at Amritsar and Sri Guru Granth Sahib University at Fatehgarh Sahib were coming up to offer varied opportunities in the field of higher education. Apart from this 7 high tech government polytechnic colleges, 13 degree colleges and 21 model schools would be established soon. Our government has already set up six multi-disciplinary academies in the state to impart education under one roof right from Class 11th to diploma/ degree in Engineering in different streams. Such more multi disciplinary academies would be established in the state which would run 10+2 classes along with the polytechnic and engineering colleges. Our government would also soon set up a series of security training institutes in the state on the pattern of Security Institute at Jahan Khelan in district Hoshiarpur. Blaming the previous Congress Government for power crisis in the state, Mr. Badal said that Congress completely ignored the development agenda and indulged in leisure and pleasure whereas our government was committed to make Punjab as a power surplus state by 2011 with the setting up of four thermal plants at Talwandi Sabo, Goindwal Sahib, Rajpura and Gidderbaha to generate additional power of 6480 MW against the present installed capacity of 6850 MW. Apart from this we were also in process to generate 700 MW power from Bio-mass, Solar and Co-generation. Another prestigious Shapur Kandi Hydel Project was also in the advance stage of implementation to generate 168 MW power. On the occasion, the Chief Minister announced to name the upcoming Government polytechnic after Sant Baba Attar Singh in response to the demand raised by the local leaders. He also announced that 5 seats would be reserved for the students of the Badbar village. Earlier, the Chief Minister also laid the foundation stone of another polytechnic at Bareta in district Mansa at a cost of Rs.12.50 crore and announced to name it after the great martyr and winner of Victroia Cross Jamadar Nand Singh. General Secretary SAD and Chairman District Planning Committee Mr. Balwinder Singh Bhundar and President District SAD Mr. Harbans Singh Datevas spoke on the occasion. Chairman Market Committee Mr. Sukhdev Singh Jalwera, Ex-MP Mr. Chatin Singh Samao, and former Minister Mr. Chiranji Lal Garg were also attended the function. In his address, Technical Education Minister Ch. Swarna Ram said that the Punjab government would soon usher in a revolution of technical education with the network of hi-tech and quality polytechnics and engineering colleges across the state. He said that nearly Rs.90 crore would be spent on these seven new polytechnics being set up in Bareta (Mansa), Fatuhikhera (Muktsar), Kotkpura (Faridkot), Ranwan (Fategarh Sahib), Badbar (Barnala), Behram (Shaheed Bhagat Singh Nagar) and Begowal (Kapurthala). Speaking on the occasion, Secretary General SAD and former Union Minister Mr. Sukhdev Singh Dhindsa said that with the establishment of 7 new polytechnics in the state, our youth would be equipped with the latest technical and engineering colleges to compete globally. Prominent amongst others who were present on these occasions included PWD (B&R) Minister Mr. Parminder Singh Dhindsa, Chairman Planning Committee Sangrur Mr. Gobind Singh Longowal, Mr. Gobind Singh Kanjla and Mr. Surinder Singh Dhuri (both ex-minister), former MLA Barnala Mr. Malkiat Singh Kitu, MLA Bhadaur Sant Balbir Singh Ghunas, Executive Member SGPC Baba Tek Singh Dhanaula and Administrative Member PSEB Mr. Gurbachan Singh Bachi besides the senior leaders, party workers of SAD-BJP and members of SGPC. PUNJAB ANNOUNCES PUNJABI SAHIT SHIROMANI AWARDS KARTAR SINGH DUGGAL TO BE HONOURED WITH PUNJABI SAHIT RATAN Chandigarh January 28: The Punjab Government today announced the Punjabi Shiromani Sahit Awards for the years 2009 and has selected noted writer Sh. Kartar Singh Duggal for the most prestigious ‘Punjabi Sahit Ratan’ award worth Rs 5 lac. It has been agreed upon by Punjab State Language Advisory Board meeting held here today, presided over by Dr. Upinderjit Kaur, Education and Language Minister, Punjab. During the meeting, 17 personalities were unanimously chosen for different Shiromani awards by the board which included ‘Shiromani Punjabi Sahitkar’ award to be conferred to Sh. Piara Singh Bhogal, ‘Shiromani Hindi Sahitkar’ award to Sh. Ravinder Kalia while Sh. Rajinder Nath Rehbar has been selected for ‘Shiromani Urdu Sahitkar’ award. Dr. Upinderjit Kaur, Education and Language Minister, said that ‘Shiromani Sanskrit Sahitkar’ award would be given to Prof. Jagdish Prasad Semwal and ‘Shiromani Punjabi Kavi’ award to Sh. Jaswant Deed. Sh. Rajinder Singh Bhaseen has been chosen for ‘Shiromani Punjabi Gyan Sahitkar/Alochik’ award, while Darshan Gill would be conferred with ‘Shiromani Punjabi Sahitkar (overseas)’ award. Besides this, Sh. Mohan Kahlon for ‘Shiromani Punjabi Sahitkar’ award (outside Punjab) and Sh. Mahinder Singh Manupuri for ‘Shiromani Punjabi Bal Sahitkar Lekhak’ award. Sh. H.S Bawa has been selected for ‘Shiromani Punjabi Patarkar’ award, Sh. Eedu Shariff for ‘Shiromani Ragi/Dhadi/Kavishar’ award and Sh. Om Puri for ‘Shiromani Punjabi Television/ Radio/ Theater/ Play/ Producer/Writer’ award and ‘Shiromani Punjabi Singer/Musician’ award would be awarded to Sh Paramjeet Singh Sidhu (Pammi Bai) whereas the newly instituted ‘Shiromani Punjabi Sahit Patarkarita Puraskar’ would be conferred to Sh Raghubeer Singh Sirjina, she said. The Minister further said that the Advisory Board also decided to honour Sh Roop Singh (SGPC) and renowned photo artist Sh Tej Pratap Singh Sandhu with special awards along with cash prize of Rs. two lac each for their valuable contribution. It has also been agreed upon in the meeting to institute a new award to honour the active Punjabi journalists working overseas with Shiromani Punjabi Parvasi Patarkar Purskar. She said that a deputation of Advisory Board would meet Advisor UT Chandiagrh and Governer of Punjab to implement Punjabi in the offices of Union Territory. Besides this, another deputation headed by Chief Minister Punjab Sh Parkash Singh Badal, would also met Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh to demand 2nd language status in Punjabi speaking areas of haryana, Himachal Pradesh, J & K, Delhi, Uttrakhand, Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan state. The board members also mourned the sad demise of 32 Sahitkars who had passed away in the past. Among others Sh. KBS Sidhu Principal Secretary Higher Education, Sh Jasbir Singh Bir Director Cultural Affairs and Mrs. Balbir Kaur Director Languages Department were also present in the meeting. 2nd Half-Day holiday declared Chandigarh, January 28: The Punjab Government declared half- day holiday for the second half of the day on (Thursday) 28-1-2010 in its offices and offices of Boards and corporations & Education Institutes located in Chandigarh to facilitate its employees to participate in Nagar Kirtan on the eve of Parkash Utsav of Sri Guru Ravi Dass Ji. CM ANNOUNCES RS. 1 LAC GRANT FOR CHANDIGARH, JANUARY 27: PUNJAB CM MOURNS SAD DEMISE OF OLYMPIAN AJMER SINGH
CHANDIGARH, JANUARY 27: Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal deeply condoled the passing away of 1964 Tokyo Olympian and Asian Gold Medallist Prof. Ajmer Singh, who died here after a prolonged illness. He was 70 and survived by widow and two sons. In a condolence message the Chief Minister described Arjuna Awardee Dr. Ajmer as a rare example of scholarly pursuits and sporting activity. In his death the Sports fraternity had lost a gem and thus void had been created which was difficult to be filled. The Chief Minister also shared his heartfelt sympathies with the members of the bereaved family and prayed to the Almighty to give strength and courage to bear this irreparable loss and grant peace to the departed soul. Parkash Singh BadalChief Minister PunjabOn the historic occasion of India’s 61st Republic Day, I extend my warm greetings and felicitations to Punjabis all over the world. The formation of the Republic on 26th January 1950 was the first milestone in our march towards realizing the dreams of our people in the aftermath of Independence. The Constitution gave expression to the goals, ideals and values that guided our freedom struggle. It laid the foundations of the structure of governance, committed to secure for all citizens - justice, liberty, equality and dignity. The unprecedented contribution of Punjab to the cause of Freedom of our country is unmatched anywhere in the history of the world. Punjab has special reasons to remember this day with reverence as 80% of the country’s great heroes and martyrs came from our state. Punjabis’ immense contribution in bolstering the national freedom movement ultimately led to the termination of British rule. The great martyrs Shaheed Bhagat Singh, Lala Lajpat Rai, Shaheed Udham Singh, Kartar Singh Sarabha, Dewan Singh Kalepani, Namdhari Baba Ram Singh, Sohan Singh Bhakna and many more who shed every drop of their blood and had languished in jails, have left a rich legacy for all of us which demands unbounded love and respect for our motherland besides firm commitment to preserve India’s glory. While today is an occasion for celebration and rejoicing, yet it is also a day of calm introspection about our successes and our failures in realizing the goals set in the Constitution and the dreams of the stalwarts of India's freedom struggle. Notwithstanding over six decades of planned development, we have not been able to ensure basic minimal services to our people as inequities between states and people continue to grow. Large sections of our rural population and those residing in urban slums are still to partake of the fruits of growth and development. Punjab is all set to move in a high orbit of growth and prosperity as the state government has already chalked out a farsighted strategy to generate additional funds through resource mobilization on the recommendations of the committee comprising Deputy Chief Minister Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal and Local Government Minister Mr. Manoranjan Kalia to give impetus to the overall development and growth of the state. Apart from this, the additional funds thus generated would be utilized for creation of a social security and welfare dedicated fund for payment of shagun and pension under various welfare schemes. Likewise, social development corpus is also being created for upgradation of education, health, access to public services, sanitation for the rural and urban poor and for providing potable drinking water. Only some time back, there was considerable talk about Punjab’s ability to manage its finances and mobilize resources. It may surprise the critics to know that the state recorded the highest ever growth in revenue collection in a single year since Independence. Revenue collections from VAT and CST went up from Rs.5000 crore in 2007-08 to nearly Rs.8000 crore during the current fiscal due to prudent economic policies and financial management. Thus Punjab rose suddenly from an embarrassing 23rd position to 3rd in the country and is all set to emerge as the top money spinner in the next few years. Punjab made a break up with the past and emerged as the first state in the country to introduce Governance Reforms. This is aimed at providing hassle free, clean and transparent administration to the people or we can say ‘citizen friendly’ services in the larger public interest to save them from undue harassment due to malpractices. Our government has already declared 2010 as a ‘year of governance reforms’ to give a public interface to the governance. Our government has made several spectacular achievements to emerge Punjab as a front runner state in the country, be it agriculture, industry, infrastructure, power, revenue, civil aviation, health care, urban & rural development and education & skill development. As a part of Infrastructure growth, Punjab is the smallest state which will have three International Airports – one at Amritsar and new airports at Mohali and Ludhiana. A network of four and six lane expressways has been laid across the state to provide smooth connectivity to the commuters. Our government is committed to make Punjab as a Power surplus state by 2011 with the setting up of four thermal plants at Talwandi Sabo, Goindwal Sahib, Rajpura and Gidderbaha to generate additional power of 6480 MW. Punjab has been adjudged the best State in the country in survey conducted by two of India’s leading magazine – India Today and Outlook. The ‘India Today's Conclave-2009’ declared Punjab the top ranking and fastest improving State, the best in Agriculture, the best in Infrastructure, Fastest Mover in Infrastructure and the best in consumer market. Our state has also bagged award for 'Best Indian State' in Water Supply & Sanitation in Outlook-CNN. On the industrial front, the state government has recently announced its industrial policy to ensure level playing field to the investors. Punjab SEZ act has also been notified to set up special economic zones in the state. Punjab was the first state and remained the only one in the country for several years to have initiated pro-poor welfare measures with the launch of Atta-Dal scheme to feed 13 lac poor families. The scheme has now been replicated in all the states by the Centre. Punjab still remains the only state to have started Shagun Scheme for the daughters of the SCs and Christians, in addition to starting pension schemes for the aged and widows. I sincerely appeal to the hardworking Punjabis to contribute enormously in the process of overall development and prosperity of the state besides ensuring a congenial and peaceful atmosphere. This will be our tribute to the legacy of our great Gurus, saints and seers. Lets us further strengthen the traditional secular bonds of communal harmony and brotherhood. Let us re-dedicate ourselves to a new and fully progressive and prosperous Punjab
SCIENCE SHOULD NOT BECOME HOSTAGE TO AGENDA OF CORPORATE PROFIT -SEKHWAN Chandigarh, January 27: Punjab Information & Public Relations Minister Mr Sewa Singh Sekhwan today called upon scientist fraternity to encourage inventions for the betterment of humanity rather than for serving the profit purpose of multi-national corporate houses. Inaugurating a national seminar on ‘Law, Society and Biotechnology Interface: Emerging Issues in the North Western Region’ here at Panjab University by University Institute of Legal Studies , Mr. Sekhwan said regretted that corporate houses Research and Development activity was focused only in those areas that would increase their profit rather than to serve the humanity. He said that with the advancement of science and inventions in biotechnology and nanotechnology, the scientists, no doubt, were finding strains of genes to cure dreaded diseases like AIDS and Cancer. He said that in the mad race to make our life comfortable, we were misusing natural resources, polluting them mercilessly, putting the very existence of our future generations at stake. Cautioning the scientist fraternity not to fall in the corporate trap, Mr Sekhwan said that efforts of biotechnology to free farmers from the trap of insecticide and fertilizer lobby were commendable but we should ensure that while doing so we may not push them in the clutches of multi-national seed companies. Emphasizing the need for India specific research, Mr Sekhwan said that western specific inventions if blindly implemented in India could create irreparable problem for our future generations. Speaking on the legal angles, Mr Sekhwan said that new inventions in biotechnology and nanotechnology like cloning would have long term impact on society and while amending/framing laws, we must be conscious of our social values and ethics. He mentioned the case of twins born to a surrogate Indian mother with the sperms of a German father, who were not being allowed visa by Germany. “Never challenge the nature or treat human body as a machine”, Mr Sekhwan advised scientists. Appreciating research in stem cell technology, Mr. Sekhwan hoped that this research would make treatment of deadly diseases economical for the common masses. The Minister pointed out that Punjab was one of the most fertile regions on the earth but recently there has been a drop in the productivity due to excessive use of fertilizers and pesticides over the years. Also a big worry was the rapidly falling water table on which almost 90% of the agriculture depended, he pointed out. Mr. Sekhwan said that the challenge therefore was to adopt a new and more environmentally friendly agricultural model that would have to be radically different from the one followed now. He said that even small changes could make a big difference. He added that if just 10% of the agricultural land was moved away from rice and to less water-intensive crops, such as flowers and vegetables, the groundwater depletion problem could be solved. The Minister said that we hope that Biotechnology would come up with a solution to this major challenge as it has shown promising results in the major recent developments. He cautioned that at the same time the human safety should not be compromised. Earlier, Prof. Sangita Bhalla, Director, University Institute of Legal Studies welcomed the Minister while Prof. A.S.Ahluwalia, Chairman, and Environment Sciences delivered keynote address. Prof P.S Jaswal, Chairman, Department of Laws also spoke on the occasion. 2 CHAIRMEN, VICE CHAIRMAN AND 29 MEMBERS NOMINATED IN MARKET COMMITTEES OF NABHA AND BHADSON CHANDIGARH JANUARY 25: The Punjab Government today nominated 2 Chairmen, a Vice Chairman and 29 members in the Market Committees of Nabha and Bhadson in Patiala district. Disclosing this here today a spokesman of the Chief Minister’s Office said that the Punjab government had nominated Mr. Gurdial Inder Singh as Chairman and Mr. Harpal Singh as Vice Chairman of the Market Committee Nabha and Mr. Lakhvir Singh as Chairman of the Market Committee Bhadson in Patiala district under Sub Section (1) of Section 16 of Punjab Agricultural Produce Markets Act, 1961.. Likewise, the Punjab government under Section 12 of Punjab Agriculture Produce Markets Act, 1961 (Punjab Act No.23 of 1961) had also nominated 29 members in these both Market Committees.
------------------ PUNJAB GETSNEW TRAINER AIRCRAFT CHANDIGARH JANUARY 25: To give impetus to flying in Punjab, the State Civil Aviation Department has been allotted one twin engine trainer aircraft Beech Hawker Baron G58 by Aero Club of India. The aircraft has been positioned at Amritsar Aviation Club. Disclosing this here today a spokesman of the Chief Minister’s office said that Baron G58 was equipped with full Digitized Glass Cockpit, which would enable trainees to under take flying as per the international laid down norms and procedures. This was the only twin engine trainer aircraft available in northern region and had a seating capacity of four passengers besides two seats for the Pilot and Co-pilot, informed the spokesman. This aircraft could also be used to ferry passengers, after operator acquired Non Schedule Permit from Ministry of Civil Aviation, Govt. of India. The aircraft had been allotted to Civil Aviation Punjab with the concerted efforts and presentation made to the Aero Club of India, New Delhi by Secretary Civil Aviation Mr. Viswajeet Khanna and Director Civil Aviation Mr. Gaggandip Singh Brar, Advisor Civil Aviation Capt. Abhay Chandra. CM Calls on Kapil Sibal Sibal sanctions Central School for Ghuda in Bathinda district New Delhi, January 23: To develop Bathinda as an educational hub, the Union Human Resources Minister Mr. Kapil Sibal today gave in principle approval to open a Central School at Ghuda in Bathinda district. A decision to this effect was taken by Mr. Sibal in a meeting with the Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal, who called on him here at his residence this morning. Taking part in the deliberation during the meeting with Mr. Sibal, the Chief Minister urged him to accord approval for opening a Central School at Ghuda as the University Grants Commission had already allotted a degree college there. Mr. Badal informed the Union Human Resources Minister that this Central School would act as a feeder for intake of quality students to the already sanctioned degree colleges as well as the Central University. Mr. Badal also raised the issue to immediately release the grant of Rs.265 crore by the Ministry of Human Resources for the rehabilitation and remodeling of 2193 Schools in the state. Mr. Sibal assured the Chief Minister of positive response and said he would soon take up the entire matter for the release of the said grant with the ministry to ensure that it was released forth with for the strengthening and upgradation of these Schools. Mr. Sibal also reviewed the progress of the Central University project at Bathinda and expressed satisfaction over it. He thanked the Chief Minister for the additional allotment of land so that the entire project of the upcoming central university could be accomplished with in a time frame. The Chief Minister was accompanied by his Principal Secretary Mr. D.S. Guru, Special Principal Secretary Mr. K.J.S. Cheema and Additional Principal Secretary Mr. Gaggandip Singh Brar. ---- SUKHBIR INVITES NRIs TO INVEST IN PUNJAB PUNJAB ALL SET TO BECOME SKILL CAPITAL OF THE WORLD - SUKHBIR Chandigarh, January 23: Mr.Sukhbir Singh Badal, Deputy Chief Minister Punjab today gave a call to NRIs to return to roots and become active partner in the economic development of the state. Inaugurating a conference “Making Punjab : The Skill Capital of the World” organized by International Punjabi Chamber for Service Industries (IPCSI) in collaboration with Institute of Technology & Future Management Trends (ITFT) here today, Mr.Badal said that with Punjab emerging the main centre of the world to train and export skilled human resource to the world, time has come for NRIs to exploit this strength of Punjab by investing in the state. Presiding over the conference, Mr.Sewa Singh Sekhwan, Minister for NRI Affairs explored Punjabi NRIs to rejuvenate their inherent strengths of hard work, entrepreneurial qualities and dedication. Mr.Badal said that Punjab was investing heavily in developing human resource according to the changing needs of industry. He said that to provide quality human resource back up to the upcoming industry, Indian Institute of Technology (IIT), Ropar has already started classes. Moreover, Indian Institute of Information & Technology (IIIT) would be setup soon. The Deputy Chief Minisgter said that with the setting up of World Class Indian School of Business (ISB), second of the country, Punjab was all set for education revolution in the State. He said that the setting up of Central University set up at Bathinda and World-Class University at Amritsar and record investment of Rs. 104 crore on 13 new degree colleges shows the focus and sincerity of the Government. Describing NRIs as ambassadors of peace, goodwill and prosperity who had become role model for rest of the world by their sheer hard work, enterprising spirit, Mr. Badal said that time has come when sun would actually rise in the east with India emerging as number 1 economic power of the World. He said that recent upheavals in the economies of US and other major economic powers, have again depicted that China and India could survive this and achieve double digit growth. Mr. Badal said that NRIs have seen and enjoyed the best possible time of western economies and time has come that they should return to their roots to become active partner in their Nation emerging as number 1 economic super power. Promising infrastructure support for economic growth to the NRIs Mr.Badal said that Punjab was committed to provide power for industry, single window clearance of all ventures besides ensuring world class road and air connectivity. He said that fulfilling our commitment to the people of Punjab of making Punjab first power surplus state of the country, the work on four Thermal Plants is on full swing, silencing the skeptics. He said that the work on the 540 MW Goindwal Sahib and 1980 MW Talwandi Sabo Thermal Plant, has been in full swing. Mr.Badal said that 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 the cost of Rs.1628 crore. . This national project declared by GoI would be executed by the state Irrigation Department and completed within 4-5 years, he added. Inviting NRIs to invest in renewable energy ventures, Mr.Badal informed that 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 households with CFL bulbs. 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, he added. Speaking about the air and road connectivity, Mr.Badal said that with three international airports and two domestic airports, Punjab was all set to emerge as most air connected state of the country. Giving a call to Punjabis to return to their known values, Mr.Sewa Singh Sekhwan, Minister for NRI Affairs said that time has come that Punjabis who have survived in the most difficult countries due to their hard work, entrepreneurial skills and dedication should pass on these values to the second and third generation NRIs. Invoking the teachings of Shri Guru Nanak Dev Ji, Mr.Sekhwan reminded that only those countries and states would survive in this competitive era who carve a niche for themselves. Earlier, Dr.Gulshan Sharma, Secretary General – IPCSI NRI Affairs, made a detailed presentation on the theme of the conference. Besides this, Mr.H.S.Mattewal, Advocate General Punjab, Mr.Gurbax Singh Malhi, Canadian Member of Parliament, Mr.S.C.Agrawal, Chief Secretary and Mr.D.S.Bains, Principal Secretary also spoke on the occasion. ------ MAKE COLLECTIVE EFFORTS TO CHANGE TRADITIONAL PERCEPTION OF POLICE-SUKHBIR WAR AGAINST DRUGS HAS REACHED DECISIVE PHASE WITH RECORD RECOVERIES Chandigarh Januay23 : Mr.Sukhbir Singh Badal, Deputy Chief Minister Punjab today exhorted the Punjab Police to make collective efforts to change the perception of people regarding the image of Police. Presiding over the monthly review meeting of Police Department in which besides DGP Mr.P.S.Gill, top brass of the Police, all Zonal IGs, Range DIGs and all SSPs of the Districts participated, Mr.Badal said that Police must focus on those areas of crime which affect public at large the most. He said that we must prioritize our task in focusing on those areas affecting the general public most. “Our image is on stake and we must be conscious of this fact” Mr.Badal commented. Underlining the need for invoking confidence of the people, Mr.Badal said that his focus was to make Punjab Police people-friendly force from whom public would not hesitate to seek help. Appreciating the Police department for conducting first ever performance appraisal of all district SSPs on the broad parameters of crime detection, services to the public from the police and in house administration, Mr.Badal said that implementation and recoveries under NDPS Act and solving the cases of theft and snatchings should get priority in the broad parameters set up by the department. He said that Punjab Police was waging a war against narcotic paddlers and smugglers as they were bent upon ruining the lives of our youth, the task of Police in making recoveries in this area must get due recognition in their appraisal. He said that Punjab Police during last six months had made record recoveries under NDPS Act, clearly indicating that smugglers who were using Punjab as a transit route were under great pressure. He said that the fact that out of total Rs.1500 crores recoveries under NDPS Act in the country, 60% recoveries were from Punjab, clearly reflect the size of problem, the Punjab was facing on this front. Advising the district SSPs to involve religious personalities in educating the public to desist from narcotics, Mr.Badal said that war against drugs cannot be won unless and until we do not rehabilitate the drug addicts. He said that we must work in tandem with NGOs, Health Department and various religious groups to keep a track on the behavior of rehabilitated drug addicts to ensure that they don’t go back to old ways. Describing the introduction of Commissionerate system in Ludhiana, Jalandhar and Amritsar as a bold, ‘Out of Box’ decision, Mr.Badal said that besides giving more power to the Police, the system has vested singular responsibility on the Police department on the law and order front in these districts. He said that now Punjab Police would have to pull up socks to come up to the expectations of general public. Mr.Badal said that he would go out of way to support Police especially in the areas of modernization of system, technology, and equipment and expect total dedication from the department in coming up to aspirations of the people. Expressing concern over growing traffic problem in big cities of Punjab, Mr.Badal said that Police must work out a traffic management plan as harassment of the public due to traffic jams cannot be accepted. Speaking about the new measures, Mr.Badal said that the constitution of Special Security Group on the pattern of NSG, SWAT teams and commission grade system besides checking the overlapping of tasks would also streamline the functioning of police department. Stressing the need for boosting the morale of Police force especially at the lower level, Mr.Badal said that his initiative of creating 2900 posts at different level would check stagnation of the force at the lower level. He said that new recruitment besides regularization of service of Home Guards would solve their long pending grievance. He said that he would ask Home Department to amend rules to ensure timely promotion to every member of the force. Asking the DGP to change the parameters for issuing different commendation certificates, Mr.Badal said that not going by routine ACRs we should focus on real work done by the officers/officials. Mr.Badal said that commendation certificates should not be restricted to officers but percolate to the level of constables to boost their morale. Earlier, Punjab DGP Mr P.S.Gill welcoming the Deputy Chief Minister congratulated him for taking the momentous decision to introduce Commissioner System and assured that the Punjab police would live up to expectations of the state government and aspirations of the people of the state by discharging its duty in maintaining law and order situation in the state. Later on, Mr Badal presented the award of Rs. One lac from his own funds to the officials of Samrala police station for excelling on all parameters. He also gave commendation certificates to Mr P.K.Rai and Mr G.S. Bhullar, both SSP of Amritsar and SAS Nagar for their extra ordinary operational performance. PUNJAB, HARYANA OPPOSE MOVE TO EXTEND INDUSTRIAL PACKAGE TO UTTRAKHAND, HIMACHAL PRADESH JOINT STATEMENT OF CHIEF MINISTER PUNJAB & HARYANA PUNJAB CABINET ALSO OPPOSES CENTRES’ MOVE
CHANDIGARH JANUARY 22: Punjab and Haryana today urged the centre not to further extend the industrial concessions to the neighboring states. In a joint statement, Punjab Chief Minister, Mr. Parkash Singh Badal and Haryana Chief Minister Mr. Bhupinder Singh Hooda expressed their concern for such an extension because it disturbs the level playing field amongst states in the spheres of development and economic growth. They further pleaded that continued concessions to Himachal Pradesh, J&K and Uttrakhand without giving the same package to Punjab and Haryana acts as a deterrent to economic growth in these states. The two Chief Ministers asked the Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh to intervene directly either to stop the extension of this package or help their states to get the same package. Mr. Badal and Mr. Hooda observed that due to these incentives, there is a growing incidence of flight of industries from Punjab and Haryana to neighboring states. Consequently, as a result of this flight, a negative fall out in the form of growing unemployment as well as decrease of income for the entrepreneurs of this area is assuming alarming proportions. They further argued that since beneficiary states have already been enjoying these benefits for a decade, therefore, there is no justification to further continue the same. Both the Chief Ministers, therefore, urged the centre to extend the same concessions to Punjab & Haryana. Meanwhile, the Punjab Council of Ministers in its meeting held under the chairmanship of Mr. Parkash Singh Badal also sought direct intervention of Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh through passing a unanimous resolution urging the union Government not to extend the special industrial package being given to the states of Uttrakhand, Himachal Pradesh and Jammu & Kashmir beyond March 31, 2010 as it had resulted in flight of industry from Punjab. … CABINET APPROVES SUKHBIR-KALIA COMMITTEE REPORT RECOMMENDATIONS COME INTO FORCE WITH IMMEDIATE EFFECT RETIREMENT AGE EXTENSION FOR ONE YEAR CHANDIGARH JANUARY 22: The Sukhbir Badal-Manoranjan Kalia Committee report on resource mobilization today found a resounding approval and appreciation from the Council of Ministers at a meeting chaired by Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal in Punjab Bhawan this evening. Contrary to speculation in some circles, the report met with immediate approval even as it was laid before the Cabinet, clause by clause by the Local Bodies Minister, with Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal watching his labour sailing smoothly through the cabinet meeting. The CMM decided to adopt the report in toto except where some amendments of rules may be called for. There was only a minor amendment made at the suggestion of the architects of the report. The extension in retirement age for now would be for one year and would be an option given to employees retiring before or up to December 31, 2010. The Cabinet passes a unanimous resolution placing on record its “full throated admiration for the hard work done by the two member committee and for coming up with innovative and far sighted recommendations. The reports marks a new benchmark in the art and science of fiscal management and Mr. Sukbir Singh Badal and Mr. Manoranjan Kalia deserve thanks and congratulations for performing a difficult task with aplomb,” Giving the details, Chief Minister’s Media Advisor Mr. Harcharan Bains said that “except where it implies amendment of rules, the report comes into force with immediate effect”. The recommendations approved by the Cabinet would generate funds to strengthen the physical and social infrastructure in the state, besides creation of social security and welfare dedicated fund to include old age pension and other pension schemes, Atta Dal subsidy and Shagun scheme. Likewise, social development corpus was also being created for education, health, access to public services, sanitation for the rural and urban poor and for providing potable drinking water. The meeting also approved to levy entry tax on lotteries, to grant exemption of institutional tax on educational institutions and hospitals and exemption from the increased carriage permit fee for the Punjab Roadways and PRTC buses. The Cabinet also decided to give an option for extension by one year to employees retiring on attaining the age of 58 years during the year 2010 as a one time measures. This decision had been taken by the cabinet keeping in view to overcome the shortage of staff during the intervening period of their retirement and the process of new recruitment so that the public delivery system could not be impaired. The Council of Ministers also sought direct intervention of Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh through passing a unanimous resolution urging the union Government not to extend the special industrial package being given to the states of Uttrakhand, Himachal Pradesh and Jammu & Kashmir beyond March 31, 2010 as it had resulted in flight of industry from Punjab. The Council of Ministers also decided to introduce police commissionerate system in the districts of Ludhiana, Jalandhar and Amritsar with an officer in the rank of Deputy Inspector General of Police (Commissioner of Police), who would be the head of Commissionerate of Police. He would perform his duties and responsibilities according to the acts and rules and be under direct control of Director General of Police. To introduce this set up, neither any new post would be created nor additional funds would be provided to introduce this system. The Council of Ministers also gave approval for promulgation of Special Security Group Ordinance 2010 for the constitution and regulation of an armed force of the state of Punjab for combating terrorist activities, naxal activities and with a view to provide ‘proximate security’ to the highly threatened persons and their immediate family members and for matter connected therewith. The Council of Ministers also gave nod for the adjustment/absorption of 1192 SPOs against the vacant posts of constables besides fresh recruitment of 800 constables during the year 2010-11 against the vacant posts of constables by relaxing ban on direct recruitment and to make recruitment through Departmental Selection Committee out of the purview of the Subordinate Selection Board. Apart from these the cabinet also gave approval for creation of additional posts of 600 head constables, 400 assistant sub inspectors, 400 sub inspectors and 200 inspectors by abolishing 1600 posts of constables. The Council of Ministers also gave approval for the allotment of land to registered political parties at district head quarters for opening their offices. The Council of Ministers also gave approval for transfer of some part of land of Cattle Fair ground, Nabipur (Sirhind) in district Fatehgarh Sahib with land of education department for providing extreme modern facilities in departmental Cattle Fair Grounds. It may be recalled that the state government has decided to provide these modern facilities in the cattle fair ground in a phased manner. Under the first phase Kilianwalia in district Muktsar, Vallah in Amritsar, Nabipur (Sirhind) in Fatehgarh and Tran Taran would be taken up. The Council of Ministers also gave in principle approval in light of the judgment of Punjab & Haryana High Court, not to recover arrears of excess payment from employees of Ranjit Sagar Dam on account of special increments but however, pay and emoluments of all employees including those who have retired, should be re-fixed as per rules and pension and other retrial benefits of the employees be released on the basis of re-fixed correct pay. In an other significant decision, the council of ministers also approved to change of designation of veterinary pharmacists to veterinary inspectors as now they were performing duties of animal vaccination, cattle census and herd registration also under the supervision of veterinary officers. The Council of Ministers also gave approval to offer land on lease basis for 20 years @ of Rs.1200 per annum to the Ministry of Defence, GoI for construction of Ex-servicemen Contributory Health Scheme (ECHS) Polyclinic at Muktsar. The Council of Ministers also decided to confer ownership rights upon the occupants of land belonging to Mud Hut Colony, Trivadi camp in Mubarkpur, district Ambala, now under Tehsil Derbasi in Mohali district thereby conceding the long pending demand of the residents of the area. The Council of Ministers also gave approval for arranging two years regular ETT course for the EGS volunteers for the session 2009-11 in DIETS in the department of school education. The Council of Ministers also gave ex-post facto approval for the transfer of 28 villages in Banur area of sub-division/Tehsil Rajpura in district Patiala to district SAS Nagar Mohali besides giving ex-post facto approval for the creation of sub-Tehsil at Mehatpur and Lohian in district Jalandhar. The council of Ministers also approved to run city buses connecting sub urban areas with the main cities of Amritsar, Jalandhar and Ludhiana for which city bus operational area has been extended 5 KMs from municipal corporation limit. The Council of Ministers also approved the transfer of 4 kanal land of Open Air Jail, Nabha to Primary School Gobind Nagar Nabha. The Council of Ministers also adopted a unanimous condolence resolution to express profound grief and sorrow over the sad demise of Communist leader Mr. Jyoti Basu who served continuously for 23 years as the Chief Minister of West Bengal and propagated the ideology of democracy and communal harmony in the country. … EMPOWERED COMMITTEE APPROVES RS. 330 CRORE RAILWAY WAGONS MANUFACTURING MEGA UNIT CHANDIGARH JANUARY 22: The Empowered Committee on Mega Projects today approved Rs. 330 crore Railway Wagons Manufacturing Mega Unit, which would generate direct and indirect employment for 1750. Disclosing this here today the Chief Minister’s Media Advisor Mr. Harcharan Bains informed that this unit would be a joint venture between Amteek Railcar industries Ltd and USA based American railcar industry to be established at village Sarai Banjara, Rajpura. The company had also agreed to employee 30% to 40% employees from local Punjabi youth after providing them technical training, said Mr. Bains. Prominent amongst others who attended the meeting were Deputy Chief Minister Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal, Local Government Minister Mr. Manoranjan Kalia, Rural Development & Panchayats Minister Mr. Ranjit Singh Brahmpura, Forest Minister Mr. Tikshan Sud, Food & Supplies Minister Mr. Adesh Partap Singh Kairon, PWD (B&R) Minister Mr. Parminder Singh Dhindsa, Agriculture Minister Mr. Sucha Singh Langah, Tourism Minister Mr. Hira Singh Gabria and Media Advisor Mr. Harcharan Bains. Besides, Chief Secretary Mr. S.C. Agrawal, Principal Secretary to Chief Minister Mr. D.S. Guru, Principal Secretary Industries & Commerce Mr. S.S. Channey, Financial Commissioner Development Mr. N.S Kang, Managing Director Punjab Agro Industries Corporation Mr. S.K. Sandhu, and Additional Principal Secretary to Chief Minister Mr. Gaggandip Singh Brar were also took part in the meeting. PUNJAB ANNOUNCES POLICE COMMISSIONER SYSTEM IN THREE METROS OF PUNJAB AMRITSAR, JALANDHAR AND LUDHIANA TO HAVE POLICE COMMISSIONERS- SUKHBIR Chandigarh, January 22:The Shiromani Akali Dal(SAD) and Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) government has decided to introduce the most modern Commissioner system in the three metro cities of Amritsar, Jalandhar and Ludhiana to meet their dynamic and complex the law and order and internal security requirements because of their fast urbanization, huge floating populations and migration resulting in fast changing demographic profile of residents and perpetual threat from the hostile neighbour that continued stoking problems from across the border. Addressing media persons here today, Deputy Chief Minister Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal, who is also Home Minister, and senior most BJP Cabinet Minister Manoranjan Kalia said that it was the SAD-BJP government which had first created a landmark in history of policing by enacting “Punjab Police Act 2007” to replace the old, outdated colonial police rules framed as back as 1861 which continued to be on the statue book even after 60 years of independence. Mr. Badal said that this government has not been only keen to get rid of colonial legacy but is now bringing in modern system of policing, including Commissioner System in consonance with the democratic ethos and fast changing demographic profile and nature of crime in industrialized and high-tech emerging societies. He said that in the Commissioner System, there is involvement of senior and experience police officers headed by DIG level officer, who would be entrusted with powers of executive magistrate with matching duties and accountability under the provisions of Cr. PC at cutting edge, resulting in their accessibility and interface with public and transparency. They said that this would also ensure the single window system for licensing under Arms Act, Explosive Act ext would ensure better delivery of these and allied services. Mr Badal said that some other states like Maharastra, Gujarat, Kerala, Karnatka, Andhra and recently Haryana too has adopted the Commissioner System and Punjab too would join the mainstream in providing better policing to its big cities. He said that the proposed system has no financial implications or would require additional manpower, as the mobilization of human resource would be done through internal structuring. Giving the background for introduction of commissioner system Mr. Badal said these three metros have their own peculiar problems emanating from their historic, religious or economic importance. Amritsar is a historical city having international airport and railway station and is highly vulnerable to the cross border crimes while Punjabi diaspora has roots in Jalandahar who frequently return to their roots to take care of their families and unsettled disputes including matrimonial problems and travel agents mafia flourishing to exploit the urge to settle has complicated the policing. Similarly Ludhiana has the highest population density have witnessed unprecedented urbanization, industrialization coupled with intra-state and inter-state migration and huge daily floating populations resulting in major traffic management problems, he added. Mr. Badal said that the City specific problems arising out of the demographic, high population density, location peculiarity etc. followed by the economic prosperity and affluence too has led to organized crime, economic offences, IT- related crimes, drug smugglings, human trafficking, crime against women, proliferation of fake currency etc. He said that to tackle to these upcoming and unwarranted trends the current system requires special attention comprising of modern efficient, and profession police force with human face under the command of a senior police officer and his team, which the Commissioner System can effectively and efficiently address. Thus, the commissioner system ensures unitary chain of command and singular responsibility, which is the norm in the urban policing in the modern policing system in the country and world. He said that the system meets the requirement of urgent preventive action, quick decision in rapidly changing law and order situations as the state has witnessed in recent past. ------- SHIVRAJ V. PATIL SWORN IN AS 33rd GOVERNOR OF PUNJAB CHANDIGARH , JANUARY 22: Mr. Shivraj V. Patil was today sworn in as the Governor of Punjab. The Chief Justice of the Punjab and Haryana High Court Mr. Justice Mukul Mudgal administered the oath of office to Mr. Shivraj V. Patil at a brief and impressive ceremony held at Punjab Raj Bhavan. Mr. Shivraj V. Patil took the oath in English. He signed the oath form that was counter signed by the Chief Justice. Later, Mr. Shivraj V. Patil signed separate charge reports, both as Governor of Punjab and Administrator of Union Territory, Chandigarh . Earlier, the Governor designate arrived at a special pandal of Punjab Raj Bhawan in a ceremonial procession. He was accompanied by the Chief Justice of the Punjab & Haryana High Court. Punjab Chief Secretary of Punjab Mr. S.C. Agrawal, after seeking permission to start the ceremony, read out the warrants of appointment of Mr. Shivraj V. Patil as the Governor of Punjab, Later, the ceremony was declared closed by the Chief Secretary. After the ceremony, the Governor in procession proceeded towards the Saluting Base and took the salute from the full contingent of Punjab Armed Police. The Punjab Police Band played the National Anthem and the National Flag was hoisted simultaneously. Later, the Governor inspected the Guard of Honour. Immediately after the Swearing-in-ceremony, the Punjab Governor was congratulated by the Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal, Haryana Chief Minister Mr. Bhupinder Singh Hooda, Deputy Chief Minister of Punjab Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal, Speaker Punjab Vidhan Sabha, Mr. Nirmal Singh Kahlon, Union Information & Broadcasting Minister Mrs. Ambika Soni, Punjab Industries Minister Mr. Manoranjan Kalia, Leader of the Opposition in Punjab Vidhan Sabha Mrs. Rajinder Kaur Bhattal, Punjab Finance Minister Mr. Manpreet Singh Badal, Punjab Information & Public Relations Minister Mr. Sewa Singh Sekhwan, Punjab Tourism Minister Mr. Hira Singh Gabria, Punjab Agriculture Minister Mr. Sucha Singh Langha, Punjab Transport Minister Master Mohan Lal, Principal Secretary to Chief Minister Mr. D.S. Guru, Secretary to Governor Punjab, Mr. M.P. Singh, Adviser to Administrator, Mr. Pradip Mehra, Home Secretary Mr. Ram Niwas, Finance Secretary Mr. Sanjay Kumar, Deputy Commissioner Mr. Varijender Singh. Besides Judges, senior Civil & Police Officers of Punjab, Haryana and Chandigarh administration and Councilors of UT were also present on the occasion. … HIGH POWERED DELEGATION FROM BRITISH COLUMBIA CALLS ON MANPREET BADAL Chandigarh January 22: A high powered delegation of 18 members headed by Mr. Michael de Jong-Attorney General and Government House Leader of British Columbia today called on Mr. Manpreet Singh Badal, Finance Minister Punjab and discussed vital issues exploring the possibilities of promoting relations in the field of education particularly vocational; education, training , trade and investment between both the states. To facilitate people of the state, the government of BC would be opening its office in Chandigarh on 23the January. The focus would be mainly on guiding the youth on educational front, said Mr. Michael de Jong. -----------------------------------------
CHAIRMAN, VICE CHAIRMAN AND 14 MEMBERS NOMINATED IN MARKET COMMITTEE OF FATEHGARH CHURIANA
CHANDIGARH JANUARY 22: The Punjab Government today nominated Mr. Bachitar Singh as Chairman and Mr. Satnam Singh as Vice Chairman of Market Committee of Fatehgarh Churiana in district Gurdaspur under Sub Section (1) of Section 16 of Punjab Agricultural Produce Markets Act, 1961. Disclosing this here today a spokesman of the Chief Minister’s Office said that the Punjab government had nominated 14 members of Market Committee of Fatehgarh Churiana in district Gurdaspur under Section 12 of Punjab Agriculture Produce Markets Act, 1961 (Punjab Act No.23 of 1961). The respective notifications relating to these nominations are being issued. ------------------
ALL SCHOOLS TO BE FULLY EQUIPPED WITH REQUISITE STAFF AND INFRASTRUCTURE-UPINDERJIT KAUR Chandigarh January 29: All the Government schools in the State would be fully equipped with requisite staff and infrastructure in science, information technology and commerce streams in the coming six months. This was disclosed to the State Advisory Committee on Education constituted by the Punjab Vidhan Sabha in its meting held here on Friday to review the progress made by the education department. Presiding over the meeting the Education Minister Punjab Dr. Upinderjit Kaur said that the SAD-BJP government had taken major initiatives to strengthen the educational network at all levels of Schools, Colleges and Universities. The education department had already recruited approximately 25000 teachers in the schools and the process was in full swing to recruit more 7700 teachers, she added. “For setting up Adarsh Schools to provide quality education to poor and meritorious children free of cost, Rs.400 crore scheme was being implemented successfully. Besides, Rs 114 crore out of Rs.141 crore, had been spent for upgradation of infrastructure in 351 Government Senior Secondary and High Schools in every constituency of the State”, said Upinderjit Kaur. She further stated that Rs.634 crore had also been spent on the upgradation of infrastructure in elementary schools to provide safe drinking water and toilet facilities in 18969 schools. In addition, 21 new model schools would be set up in educationally backward blocks in the state. This would entail an expenditure of Rs.63.42 crore. Similarly, Rs.5.50 crore would be spent on construction of women hostels in the 7 colleges of the state. He said that the government is arranging another Rs.11.92 crore for 21 more such hostels, she added. To give impetus to higher education in the state the Minister said that world class Indian School of Business (ISB) was setting up its second India campus at SAS Nagar (Mohali) as part of Knowledge City. Central University had been set up at Bathinda. Sri Guru Granth Sahib University at Fatehgarh Sahib and World-Class University would soon come up at Amritsar. New Indian Institute of Technology (IIT), Ropar has already started classes in the local government polytechnic college and Indian Institute of Information & Technology (IIIT) would be setup soon. Besides, Rs. 104 crore would be spent on 13 new degree colleges in educationally backward areas of the state, she added. Dr. Upinderjit Kaur also asked the members to give their valuable inputs to the state government to make education system far more reformative and result-oriented. She assured 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 level. She further said that the Punjab Government has also been deliberating to set up an Education and Knowledge Commission to make quality education accessible to the people across the state to impart both quality school and higher education aimed at achieving excellence in the pursuit of research and technological upgradation of international standards to enable our students to compete globally. Among others committee members Mr Harminder Singh Jassi MLA, Mr. Harish Bedi MLA, Mr. K.B.S Sidhu Principal Secretary Higher Education, Mr. G.S Grewal Secretary School Education, Mr. R.L Mehta Special Secretary School Education, Mr. Sukhwinder Singh DPI (Secondary), Mrs. Balbir Kaur Director Languages, Mr. Sohan Lal DPI (Colleges), Dr. Sadhu Singh Randhawa DPI (Elementary), Mr. Avtar Singh Director SCERT were also present n the meeting
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